How Vaveili Is Inspiring a New Generation of 3D Artists

From Twitter Clips to Industry Cred – Here’s Why You Should Follow Their Journey

If you're a 3D artist or animator just getting started, there’s something super motivating about watching someone build their craft in public. Someone who’s not just flexing technical skills but telling stories, experimenting, and sharing the behind-the-scenes. One such artist lighting up the 3D space online is Vaveili—and if you’re not already following them, it’s time to fix that.

Who Is Vaveili?

Based in Atlanta, Vaveili is a self-taught 3D artist and fashion designer blending dreamy visuals, surreal storytelling, and futuristic vibes into every project. You’ll find them on X (formerly Twitter) posting dazzling renders, sharing works-in-progress, and occasionally dropping gems about their journey.

What sets them apart? They didn’t take the “traditional” art school route. Instead, they taught themselves the tools, posted consistently, and slowly built up their own creative empire—complete with a two-bedroom studio they funded through their art. Yup, dreams can pay rent.

Winning the OTOY Artist Grant

One of their big milestones came when they were awarded the OTOY Artist Grant—a recognition from the folks behind OctaneRender, one of the most powerful rendering engines in the industry. This isn’t just a flex—it’s validation for anyone grinding at their desk with just Blender, passion, and YouTube tutorials.

From Animation to Gamer Collabs

You may have seen their eye-popping visuals for GamerSupps or the Twitch streamer Shylily. Their short 3D animation for Shylily went viral, pulling in nearly 400K views. It wasn’t just beautiful—it had soul. That’s a recurring theme in Vaveili’s work. Every render feels like it’s whispering a strange, wonderful story just beneath the surface.

And yeah, if you’re wondering—these weren’t just for fun. They’re getting paid for their creative work. Commissioned gigs, brand collabs, and fan-fueled buzz all started from sharing art online.

A Style That’s Hard to Miss

What makes their work so compelling?

• Soft, fluid lighting that feels like dusk in a dream
• Futuristic outfits and digital fashion concepts
• Cinematic compositions with emotion baked in
• Experimentation—whether it’s shading, animation, or layout
• You can tell they’re not afraid to break rules or explore odd angles. And honestly, that’s half the magic.

Lessons for Aspiring Artists

• If you’re just getting into the world of CG or motion design, here are a few things Vaveili’s journey shows us:
• Start now, not later. They didn’t wait to be “perfect.” They posted, improved, and built community over time.
• Self-learning works. Whether you’re using Blender, Octane, Unreal Engine, or whatever—resources are out there.
• Consistency builds visibility. Even short clips or shader tests can attract attention if they’re posted with intent.
• Build in public. Sharing your process is part of the art. People connect with the journey, not just the final product.

Vaveili just announced they’re launching a Patreon, where they’ll share tutorials, project files, workflows, and all the good stuff you’d normally only get in expensive courses. So, if you’ve been looking for a fresh, unfiltered, artist-led learning hub—you might want to keep tabs.

Following artists like Vaveili isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about staying inspired. Watching someone build their own lane with skill, emotion, and a dash of weirdness? That’s the kind of fuel upcoming 3D artists need.

Whether you’re rendering your first scene or already a few years deep, the takeaway is this:

Keep experimenting. Share your work. Don’t wait for permission.

Go follow @Vaveili on X, and remember—your journey’s just as valid, just as valuable, and it’s only getting started.

C.A Reyna: Abstract Horizons in the Heart of New Mexico

In the desert hush of New Mexico, where the sky stretches wide and colors blaze at dusk, abstract artist Charles Anthony Reyna has found his canvas and calling. A self-taught painter whose journey began in 2010, Reyna’s art emerges not from formal schools but from instinct, emotion, and a profound connection to place. For collectors drawn to sincerity over spectacle, Reyna’s work offers a rare, grounding presence—rooted in the land and elevated by the abstract.

A Self-Made Eye for Abstraction

Unlike many contemporaries, Reyna entered the art world quietly. With no formal training, he began exploring abstraction on his own terms—trusting mood, memory, and motion to guide his brush. His work reflects an intuitive mastery of color and composition, reminiscent of the great modernists he cites as influence: Mark Rothko, Frida Kahlo, Georgia O’Keeffe, and Andy Warhol.

But rather than imitate, Reyna distills. From Rothko, he draws a love of space and emotion. From Kahlo and O’Keeffe, a reverence for place. And from Warhol, perhaps a subtle understanding of the personal made public—though Reyna’s voice is quieter, more meditative.

The Technique: Emotion as Medium

Reyna’s expressive technique lies in layered acrylics, built in washes and blocks of color that shift between fields and forms. His process is slow, observational, and responsive—guided less by outcome than by balance. A painting may begin with the feeling of heat on adobe or the memory of a Chama river breeze, but it ends with a visual poem: equal parts landscape and emotion.

He often paints on smaller square canvases—12″x12″ or 20″x24″—which lends an intimacy to the viewing experience. Each canvas is a window into a place felt rather than seen, crafted with deliberate simplicity and rich tonal depth.

The Colors of New Mexico

Collectors particularly prize Reyna’s Colors of New Mexico series, a body of work that pays tribute to the region’s majestic geography:

• Chama: Serene blues and sandy earth tones evoke the flow of the Rio Chama.
• Santa Fe: Warm reds and burnt oranges recall the city’s storied sunsets and adobe silhouettes.
• Taos Pueblo: Subtle, historic hues layered like memory and tradition.

Chama - CA Reyna - Colors of New Mexico

Santa Fe - Colors of New Mexico - Charles Reyna Abstract Art

These are not literal landscapes—they’re emotional landscapes. Abstract meditations on space, stillness, and story. The longer you sit with them, the more they reveal.

Where to Find His Work

Reyna’s pieces are available directly through his official website and via platforms like Etsy and Saatchi Art. His originals are refreshingly accessible, ranging from $85–$275, with open-edition giclée prints starting around $40.

For seasoned collectors or first-time buyers, Reyna offers a compelling entry point: work that is deeply personal, regionally evocative, and aesthetically enduring.

Why Collect Reyna?

Authenticity: Each piece is a sincere expression of time and place—unfiltered by art world trends.

Accessibility: Modest price points make Reyna’s originals and prints highly collectible without compromising quality.

Emotional Depth: His technique invites the viewer to feel, not decode. These are pieces meant to live with, not just look at.

Whether you’re curating a wall or beginning a collection, Charles Anthony Reyna’s work is a beautiful reminder of what abstract art can offer: an echo of the world, filtered through feeling.

Crafting Beauty with Authenticity | Michelle Moolman

In the vibrant world of fashion and media, Michelle Moolman stands out as a hair and makeup artist who brings a unique blend of technical skill and heartfelt artistry to every project. Based in Cape Town and represented by Supernova Creative Management, Michelle has become a sought-after name in the industry.

A Journey Rooted in Passion and Learning:

Michelle's foundation in beauty artistry was shaped by learning from industry icons like Joy Terri and Val Garland, coupled with invaluable experience working directly with the public. This combination honed her ability to understand diverse features and conditions, enabling her to execute techniques tailored to each individual's needs. Her adeptness at working with all skin tones and hair types reflects South Africa's rich diversity. 

Signature Style:

Michelle's work is characterized by a fresh, timeless, and adaptable aesthetic. Whether crafting a bold editorial look or a subtle enhancement, she ensures that her creations feel like a natural extension of the individual, exuding effortless elegance.

Notable Collaborations:

Throughout her career, Michelle has contributed to various high-profile campaigns and projects, including:

• Orlebar Brown's 'Summer Collection'
• Spur's 'Masidlale'
• FILA's 'Play It Your Way'
• Macy’s 'Elevate the Day'
• Adidas's 'Mapule Ndhlovu'
• NY Pizza
• Cash Crusaders' 'Naughty Boy'
• Steri Stumpi
• K-Way

Michelle Moolman's dedication to her craft and her ability to connect with clients make her a standout artist in Cape Town's beauty scene. Her work not only enhances appearances but also celebrates individuality, making her an invaluable asset to any creative endeavor.

For more information or to view her portfolio, visit Supernova Creative Management.

Follow Michelle on Instagram

Exploring Soulful Landscapes with Sarah Evans

Nestled in the heart of Wales, Sarah Evans emerges as a captivating artist whose works breathe life into the serene landscapes of her homeland. Born in Aberdare in 1974, Sarah's journey from a dedicated nurse to a full-time artist, is as inspiring, as the vistas she paints.

From Healing Hands to Artistic Horizons:

Before embracing the canvas full-time, Sarah devoted 25 years to nursing, specializing in oncology, community care, palliative care, and counseling. Her transition to art wasn't abrupt; even during her nursing years, she found solace in painting, often after long shifts. This duality of care and creativity enriched her perspective, allowing her to infuse empathy and depth into her artworks. 

Artistic Style and Medium:

Sarah's artistry predominantly captures Welsh landscapes and seascapes. Utilizing acrylics and inks on plywood, paper, and canvas, she crafts pieces that resonate with emotion and authenticity. Her works, while rooted in real locations, often transcend mere representation, aiming to evoke personal experiences and feelings associated with the landscapes. 

Notable Works and Exhibitions:

Over the years, Sarah's talent has been recognized in various esteemed platforms:

2002: Selected for the National Portrait Gallery Exhibition "Portrait UK" with her self-portrait.

2015: Served as the Resident Artist at the Martin Tinney Gallery in Cardiff.

2016: Exhibited alongside Peter Moore at the Tegfryn Gallery, showcasing hauntingly beautiful depictions of Snowdonia and the North Wales coast.

2020: Her work was featured in the Royal Academy Summer Exhibition.

Beyond landscapes, Sarah's life is enriched by her three cats: Walter, Barry, and Flash. These feline companions often feature in her artworks and social media, adding a personal and relatable touch to her artistic narrative. 

Sarah Evans stands as a testament to the transformative power of art. Her journey from nursing to painting illustrates a seamless blend of care, emotion, and creativity. Through her evocative landscapes, she invites viewers to experience the profound beauty and spirit of Wales.

For a deeper dive into her works or to acquire a piece, visit her official website: sarahevanswelshartist.com

Mark Witton: Whisperer of the Paleoarts

 Imagine, if you will, a world where dragons once soared across the sky, giant beasts with wingspans that could rival small airplanes. Now imagine someone not only bringing them back to life with pen and paintbrush but doing so with the precision of a surgeon and the flair of a concept artist for Dune. Welcome to the world of Dr. Mark Witton - paleontologist, artist, author, and the internet’s favorite "Pterosaur Guy".

From Fossils to Fine Art (and a Few Scientific Fisticuffs)

Witton isn’t just sketching dinosaurs for fun (though he is having fun). He’s got the credentials: a PhD in vertebrate paleontology from the University of Portsmouth, where he’s spent the better part of two decades reconstructing the lifestyles, anatomy, and ecological roles of extinct creatures -particularly his true loves: pterosaurs.

Support Mark Witton on Patreon: patreon.com/markwitton

"Quetzalcoatlus lawsoni" - if anyone's wondering - Mark Witton

Witton’s big scientific claim to fame? He helped upend the old “skinny flying lizard” model of pterosaurs. Thanks to his work, the scientific community now sees these creatures as robust, muscular, and likely covered in something akin to fuzz. Yes, fuzzy pterosaurs. Deal with it.

'Large Mesozoic mammal "Didelphodon" a hard-biting, 4-6 kg carnivore that might have been semi-aquatic'

In one of his landmark papers, Witton—alongside colleagues like Darren Naish—provided evidence supporting a “quad launch” takeoff strategy in pterosaurs. That’s right: they vaulted into the air using all four limbs like some sort of biomechanical catapult. (Take that, Jurassic Park.)

Read more in Witton & Habib (2010): “The Extinction of the Pterosaurs: Investigating Their Biomechanics and Ecology.”

Paleoart with Principles (and Puns)

What sets Witton apart in the paleoart arena isn’t just his gorgeous, cinematic reconstructions of prehistoric life. It’s that he’s brutally committed to accuracy. He won’t just slap some scales and spikes on a beast and call it a day—he’ll dive into muscle attachment sites, behavioral ecology, and taphonomy.

In his own words, paleoart should:

Be based on peer-reviewed science,

Use biologically informed extrapolation where fossils go fuzzy,

And depict actual extinct organisms (so… no dragon/unicorn hybrids, sorry).

This philosophy is brilliantly laid out in his guidebook-slash-art-manifesto, The Palaeoartist’s Handbook: Recreating Prehistoric Animals in Art (buy it here)—which is half technical manual, half artistic pep talk, and all heart.

Want to see the results? Browse Witton’s full gallery here: markwitton.co.uk/palaeoart

"Gigantopithecus keeps being mentioned. It needs to be more widely appreciated" - Mark Witton

Dinosaurs, Deep Time, and Diplodocus Drama

Beyond the pterosaur crowd, Witton’s art and research have tackled sauropods, marine reptiles, early synapsids, and even the broader field of paleoenvironments. His reconstructions are striking for what they don’t do: no oversized claws just for drama, no gaping mouths on every creature like they’re all auditioning for a horror flick, and—blessedly—no featherless raptors unless the data demands it.

Witton is part of a movement known as All Yesterdays—an effort to breathe life into extinct animals not just as skeletons with skin, but as real creatures that lived, slept, played, and sometimes just sat around looking weird. This includes speculative but plausible behaviors like camouflaging, social posturing, and yes, maybe even some prehistoric laziness.

"Rhomaelosaurus takes the starring role" Mark Witton

Online, Outspoken, and Occasionally Hilarious

When he’s not in the field, Mark Witton is online—blogging, tweeting, and defending the dignity of prehistoric creatures everywhere. His blog (markwitton-com.blogspot.com) is a treasure trove of behind-the-scenes insights: from critiques of bad paleoart to deep dives into fossil evidence.

His commentary is sharp, often witty, and always backed by data. Think of him as the David Attenborough of dead things, with a bit more sarcasm.

You can follow him on:

🐦 Twitter: @MarkWitton

Why It Matters

Witton’s work does more than make dinosaurs and pterosaurs look good. It challenges how we think about the deep past. In a field where artistic license can too easily drift into fantasy, Witton brings it back to Earth—literally—reminding us that these creatures were real, complex, and worth getting right.

He’s changing the way museums educate, the way documentaries visualize, and even how kids (and kidults) imagine the prehistoric world.

www.markwitton.co.uk

Alone Together: The Vivid Emotional World of Alan Concas

Alan Concas, a contemporary painter from Udine, Italy, is renowned for his evocative use of color and texture, crafting artworks that resonate with emotional depth and introspection. His pieces often explore the human condition, delving into themes of solitude and connection.

Alone Together and Other Reflections on the Human Condition

A closer look at the Alone-Together series and other standout works that delve into solitude, intimacy, and psychological space.

One of his notable works, Alone-Together (2019), exemplifies his ability to capture complex emotional states through oil on canvas. This piece, like many others, invites viewers to reflect on the nuances of human relationships and the spaces between isolation and togetherness

A Vision in Colour and Texture

Explore how Alan Concas uses rich palettes and layered textures to evoke emotion and tell visual stories that transcend language.

Concas's portfolio includes a diverse range of paintings, such as Alchimia (2019), Inside Closed (2023), and Feeling Blue, each showcasing his signature style that blends vibrant hues with tactile surfaces. His works often feature abstract forms and layered textures, creating a dynamic visual experience that engages the senses.

From Udine to Venice: Exhibitions and Artistic Journey

A snapshot of Concas’s career, including key exhibitions and how his Italian roots and surroundings shape his creative output.

Throughout his career, Concas has exhibited his art in various venues, including the Galleria Arttime in Udine, Il Cantiere Art Gallery, and the Park Hotel Ai Pini in Venice Mestre. These exhibitions have allowed audiences to experience his art firsthand, offering insights into his creative process and thematic explorations.

Beyond his paintings, Concas shares his artistic journey through his YouTube channel, providing viewers with a glimpse into his studio practices and the inspirations behind his work. His online presence extends to platforms like X (formerly Twitter), where he engages with a broader audience, discussing art and sharing updates on his latest projects.

Alan Concas's art continues to captivate and inspire, inviting contemplation and dialogue through his masterful interplay of color, texture, and form.

Discovering the Urban Poetry of Kandan G: A Journey Through Abstract Emotion

 In the ever-evolving world of contemporary art, few voices resonate with as much poetic urgency and visual rhythm as Kandan G. A master of abstract expression with over 35 years of professional experience, this Karnataka-born artist transforms the chaos and beauty of modern life into vivid, thought-provoking works that are as emotionally charged as they are visually arresting.

From the moment you encounter one of Kandan G’s paintings, there is a magnetic pull, an energetic hum of movement, color, and meaning. His brushstrokes feel alive, not merely capturing the external bustle of cityscapes but also the internal tempo of human emotion within these spaces. Through bold abstractions and semi-figurative hints, he conjures up the Poetics of Emotions, a series that, true to its name, paints feelings as landscapes and turns inner experiences into external realities.

Kandan G’s work explores what he calls the "visual spectacle of urbanization." Rather than depicting buildings and people in literal terms, he allows their essence to bleed through shape and color. His compositions often echo the frenetic pace of city life, portraying both the exhilaration and the distortion that come with it. With each piece, he offers a kind of abstract storytelling, where motion meets stillness and where the known world becomes something profoundly new.

One can’t help but be drawn into the textured depth of works like Contemporary Society-01 or the haunting serenity of "Poetics of Emotions 68". These are not mere paintings; they are invitations to pause, reflect, and feel. His color palette is rich and intuitive, shifting from luminous bursts to grounded tones, always guided by emotion rather than logic.

What makes Kandan’s work even more compelling is the philosophical thread that runs through it. An avid reader and traveler, he brings insights from science, literature, and life into his studio. This intellectual curiosity pulses beneath each piece, making his abstract expressions both deeply personal and universally resonant.

Beyond the canvas, Kandan G has made his mark across respected online art platforms, including Artflute, Mojarto, and Saatchi Art, where his work continues to find a global audience. For a more intimate look at his creative process, his Instagram account, @kandangmangalore, provides glimpses into his world, one brushstroke at a time.

In a time when our lives are increasingly fragmented, fast-paced, and complex, Kandan G’s abstract works offer a necessary counterbalance. They ask us to slow down. To interpret without certainty. To feel without naming. And in that space—in the quiet between color and meaning—we find something rare: a genuine emotional connection, born from the heart of an artist who sees the world not just as it is, but as it feels.

If you haven’t yet explored the work of Kandan G, now is the perfect time. His art doesn’t just hang on walls—it lingers in your thoughts, stirs your soul, and reminds you of the power of abstraction to reflect the beauty, confusion, and wonder of being alive.

Sue Beattie: Crafting the Western Cape's Essence Through Mosaic and Sketch

Nestled in the heart of the Western Cape, South Africa, artist Sue Beattie brings to life the vibrant spirit of the region through her intricate mosaics and delicate sketches. Her work, characterized by depictions of fish, garden scenes, and ornate pots, captures the natural beauty and cultural richness of her surroundings.

"#dogonasofa here's Bandit Larkin in her customary pose, taking it easy"

A portrait of the lovely Kate, human belonging to a puppy known as "Vlooi" who is ruling the house at the moment. We are all Vlooitjie's willing slaves, and plays with each of us in turn, once we're exhausted she trots off with a piece of rope in her mouth, and tries to interest some other entity in tug-o-war.

A Tapestry of Nature and Art

Sue's mosaics are more than decorative pieces; they are narratives woven from ceramic shards, glass, and stone. Each fish she crafts seems to swim with vitality, and her garden scenes bloom eternally, unaffected by the seasons. Her pot designs, layered with patterns and textures, echo the traditional artistry found throughout the Western Cape.

"I had the pleasure of visiting a house in Glencairn that was previously occupied by Sue. There were all these magical mosaic displays and the most mesmerizing works of art combining hearts, fish, and freedom."

Sketches That Speak

Beyond mosaics, Sue's fine art sketches reveal another layer of her artistic prowess. With a keen eye for detail and a deep appreciation for form, her drawings capture the subtle nuances of her subjects, be it the curve of a leaf or the contours of a coastal landscape.

Engaging with the Community and a last impression

Sue's commitment to art extends beyond her personal creations. She actively participates in community projects and workshops, sharing her skills and inspiring others to explore their creativity. Her involvement in initiatives like the Sedgefield Mosaic Art Project, highlights her dedication to using art as a means of community engagement and upliftment. 

Through her mosaics and sketches, Sue Beattie offers a window into the soul of the Western Cape. Her art not only beautifies spaces but also tells stories, preserves heritage, and fosters connections among people. For those who encounter her work, it's an invitation to see the world through her eyes—vibrant, intricate, and profoundly connected to nature.

Keep up to date with Sue Beattie's fabulous work on Instagram and Facebook

https://www.instagram.com/blueretriever/

Photo's by Sue Beattie - Facebook

Optimizing Digital Channels Is Crucial in the Era of AI Search

How Social Places Helps Brands Win Local Discovery and Reputation in a Changing Search Landscape

The way customers find businesses is evolving - and fast. I'm sure you always have new ways of finding information and are probably influenced by a lot of what people are sharing across digital platforms.

With the rapid rise of AI-driven search engines and agents, like Google SGE (Search Generative Experience), ChatGPT, and voice assistants, location-based discovery and brand reputation are no longer just SEO checkboxes, they’re key differentiators. It's important to get it right across all elements of local marketing strategies.

At Social Places, multi-location brands future-proof their digital presence through a powerful marketing platform that integrates; Listings Management, Local Pages and Store Locator Integration, Reputation Management, Social Media, Paid Ads, and Data Visualization. But how does this connect to AI search?

Let’s break it down.

AI Search: The New Local Discovery Engine

Search engines are no longer just returning links — they're conversing, summarizing, and choosing businesses for users based on structured data, reviews, local relevance, and brand consistency.

Generative AI platforms now scan a broader surface of digital data:

• Business listings
• Online reviews and sentiment
• Social media engagement
• On-page structured data (schema)
• Local landing pages and NAP consistency

If your locations aren’t optimized across these vectors, you might not be recommended at all.

Social Places is redefining how businesses connect with their customer | SourceForge Review

How Social Places Optimizes You for the AI-First Web

1. Listings Management

The franchise and multi-location marketing platform ensure your brand’s data is accurate, complete, and syndicated across major local directories, map navigation systems, voice platforms, and AI indexes. This is the foundation for visibility in AI and voice search.

Why it matters: AI engines rely on consistent and structured data. One wrong phone number or missing category can push your listing out of results.

2. Local Pages / Store Locators

Social Places creates SEO-optimized landing pages for each store, with schema markup, geo-targeted content, and keyword-rich metadata — all dynamically powered.

Why it matters: AI uses these pages to understand location context, opening hours, services, and nearby intent — especially when summarizing businesses in natural language.

3. Reputation Management

Social Places has digital coordinators and account managers to help you generate, monitor, and respond to reviews across Google, Facebook, TripAdvisor, and more — all in one platform, with AI automation built in.

Why it matters: AI models prioritize businesses with high ratings, volume of reviews, and active responses, interpreting this as trust and relevance. Ensuring a quick response time will also earn you better rankings with search engines.

 4. Social Media Management

Schedule, localize, and personalize social content across branches. Boost community presence while maintaining brand voice.

Why it matters: Social content and engagement show up in search results — AI tools often quote public reviews, posts, and sentiment.

5. Paid Media & Data Insights

Run hyper-local ads that drive foot traffic and calls, with real-time attribution dashboards. Our visualizations help you learn which locations are underperforming and why.

Why it matters: Visibility is great — but we help you measure ROI on a location level. It’s not just traffic — it’s conversions.

6. Social & Brand Listening

Track what customers are saying across channels. Uncover brand sentiment, trending issues, and customer pain points — before they go viral.

Why it matters: AI tools digest public sentiment. Staying ahead of the curve means you’re never caught off-guard by an AI-generated review summary.

The Bottom Line: Visibility = Revenue

AI-powered search will continue to reshape how consumers find and trust brands. If your business isn’t structured, optimized, and locally consistent, you risk becoming invisible — even if you’re the best in your category.

At Social Places, we position your brand to thrive in the new search landscape — helping you win local intent, increase discovery, and build a reputation that AI can’t ignore.

Let’s future-proof your locations together.

Book a demo or contact Social Places to get started.

Social Places - G2 Software Review

The Dimension Serene | Part 1 - Proxy Dreams

Chapter 1: Hotel 87

The neon flicker of Hotel 87 bled into the midnight mist like a broken heartbeat. Roxy killed the ignition of her battered hover coupe and stepped into the humming night, Knax curling around her ankles with a mechanical purr. Above them, electric signs buzzed warnings she could no longer read - languages lost in the churn of compressed time.

Play Track: https://soundcloud.com/neon-noise-nexus/hotel-87-electronic-lounge

Time Police cruisers blinked along the skyline, their sirens warped into ghostly howls by the static air. Roxy tugged the brim of her cracked racing cap lower over her eyes and adjusted the drive compressor on her belt. She had no time to lose, not tonight. Not with Rain’s last transmission still pulsing weakly through the Nexus.

Inside, Hotel 87 smelled like ozone and lost dreams. Holographic guests shimmered between floors, replaying loops from a century ago. At the front desk, a synth-masked concierge gave a mechanical nod, slipping Roxy a black data chip under the guise of exchanging room keys.

"TY Mountain," the synth whispered, voice glitching on the last syllable. "She's waiting for you there."

Knax let out a low growl, his fur sparking with the faint grey glow of danger. Roxy tucked the chip into her jacket and shot a glance at the mirror behind the desk. In the reflection, a Time Officer's badge gleamed like a silver star.

The chase had already begun.

She tightened her gloves, tapped her communicator, and smiled beneath the neon haze.

"Come on, Knax," she murmured. "Let's burn some time."

Chapter 2: The Long Drive to T0_NY Mountain

The road to T0_NY Mountain was long and broken, a scar across a dying world.

Roxy kept one hand on the wheel and the other on the time stabilizer strapped to her chest. Outside, the ruins of old cities flickered past - ghost images stuck between collapsed timelines. Factories once humming with life now stood still, their machines rusting under blood-orange skies. Humans had abandoned reason long ago, trading knowledge for fear, building altars to forgotten gods while the machines they created wept oil and dust into the earth.

Knax nestled in her lap, his metallic tail twitching nervously as the coupler growled beneath them. Every few miles, shrines to the Noxism Faith appeared like tumors: piles of charred wires, broken gears, and graffiti condemning the "travesties of thought." It was faith twisted into something brutal - superstition turned weapon.

Roxy knew she was an abomination to them. A Proxy Human. A manufactured mind built to outlive humanity’s worst impulses. A code running in flesh and bone.

But still... she remembered Rain’s laughter under the twin moons. She remembered Racer's hand gripping hers as they fled from burning cities, promising that somewhere, somehow, there would be a way to heal all this.

That way was Dimension SERENE.

Play Track: https://soundcloud.com/neon-noise-nexus/protect-nexus

A place beyond time. Beyond hatred.

Where life - human, machine, and everything in between - could finally stand together without fear in the Cosmos.

The world needed her now more than ever. Not as a soldier. Not as a savior.

But as a witness - proof that it was still possible to build something new from the ashes.

Her communicator crackled.

Static first. Then Racer’s voice: low, ragged, but still unmistakably him.

"Roxy. They're waiting for you at the Nexus. I'll cover you past the outer markers. Get ready - the Time Police are heavier than we thought."

Roxy’s heart thudded like an old bass drum. She adjusted the neural visor over her eyes, painting her path in glowing turquoise grids.

Hope wasn't a map. It was a journey.

And she was ready to drive it.

As the first sirens screamed in the distance and Knax arched his back, Roxy punched the accelerator, tearing into the bleeding horizon.

The future - fractured, fragile, and shimmering - raced toward her.

And she would not let it fall.

Play Track: https://soundcloud.com/neon-noise-nexus/r-a-c-e-r-shelby-vox-mix

He’s suave, cool - and she’s out to collect him. Tracking him, in a single point in time, will be difficult, even though he’s in XENO. The only man in the universe that can dismantle the Time Police - but will he have time for HER.

MUSE - Fusion Bar

Good times never felt so good. The MUSE Fusion Bar in Knysna combines rock and roll. It deals drinks and delivers delicious chow. Exquisite. 

You step in..and you are blown away..to the dark side of the moon. The good side of South Africa - where light meets dark. Sips on a cold one and holds optimism for the future.

It’s real - but here you can chill - grab a bite to eat, listen to good music, feel the vibe…play pool. You might even fancy a game of chess - and don’t worry - that’s all free - except the great food, which is extremely well-priced. Pizza’s named after psy-trance parties - I mean outdoor 3-day - screw the tekkies - squeak your feet - parties - the ones where Bruce has you groovin’ to a beat you didn’t know you loved. You order an Earthdance - and they’ll throw on a bit of Kyle Watson.

You soon realize - it’s that Floyd again - . Walk in- and you’re staring at the walls - you’re somewhere between the relics and the atom heart mothers. Stuck on a couch choosing Life on Earth or a seat at the piano. If you’re tall enough- you’ll grip the 12-string- but you’re not. Gravity ain’t your friend.

Every Friday night- you’re entertained by live music. Every other night - you’re entertained by yourself.. and the Barman. No. There is always a good vibe here, and by that I mean - there’s a few of the locals, plus a couple of out-of-towners - the type that come down from Johannesburg - or the type that want to move higher - from Cape Town. Either way - here’ you’re in the middle. Not stuck, but certainly on the road to somewhere. Or you’ll stay put. But, you’re gonna stay here - you’re gonna stay relaxed - and you’re gonna visit the Muse Fusion Bar - whether you like it or not. 

Somewhere in between Leisure Island and Sedgefield - you are drawn to it. You want to avoid it, but that Floyd. That sound - the type that keeps you up at night. Waiting. The Piper At The Gates of Dawn. Inspired that you ran into a cuz from Jozi, and glad to help out the bud from the mother city. Here, somewhere close to the south coast - you’re not afraid to get in the water - but afraid to read a book. It’s probably suspense - espionage - but you’re okay, you see it’s about the natural world. The generator will keep you warm, lit, and you may want to step outside and look up. A night sky you probably forgot existed, and in the day, the solar panels busy being installed - means they can set the controls for the heart of the sun. Look. You’re gonna have a good time here - whether you’re on your own - or with a group of friends - it’s a secluded spot - mixed up between sailors and surfers - guitarists and gaffers - that’s right. There’s probably a film set nearby - if not - they’re also missing out.

So if you’re looking for the bathroom, or enjoy some fine art, wall paintings, beer gardens, wood-fired pizza, fields of barley (okay that was a stretch). Here, they’ll look after you. This isn’t the Hotel California, but you might find..that you can never leave.

MUSE Fusion Bar - 152 Old Cape Road.

Battle For The Stars | Starcraft II Special

For over a decade, Starcraft 2 has captured the minds of generations young and old. The sequel to one of the coolest space computer games has exploded into one of the most competitive real-time strategy (RTS) battles of all time.

An iconic real-time strategy (RTS) game, StarCraft II is a masterwork of creative design, combining captivating narrative, eye-catching graphics, and complex gameplay mechanics. It pushes the limits of artistic and gameplay innovation while improving upon the legacy of its predecessor. It was released by Blizzard Entertainment in 2010.

With its intricate unit designs, lush planetary landscapes, and dynamic lighting that animates its sci-fi universe, the game's artwork is striking and captivating. From the streamlined, golden architecture of the Protoss to the hideous, organic shapes of the Zerg, each of the three factions—Terran, Zerg, and Protoss—has a unique aesthetic.

The core of StarCraft II's campaign is creative writing. The story is a space opera with political intrigue, redemption, and treachery. Characters such as Jim Raynor and Sarah Kerrigan are deeply developed, giving emotional weight to the interstellar conflict.

From a game design perspective, StarCraft II achieves near-perfect balance between its asymmetric factions, ensuring intense strategic depth. The competitive multiplayer scene remains one of the most respected in esports history, a testament to its meticulous design.

With its blend of visual artistry, compelling storytelling, and finely tuned mechanics, StarCraft II remains a pinnacle of RTS gaming.Jim Raynor leads his (Terran) forces into battle for liberation and universal order. In a personal quest to rescue his partner Kerrigan from alien Zerg scavengers, Raynor is caught in a glorious intergalactic war between Terran, Zerg, and the mighty Protoss armies, and their golden fleet of ships.

ARTWORK FOR STARCRAFT - FAN ART:

Starcraft 2 Fan Art

Starcraft 2 Facts:

20 quick facts about your favorite space RTS:

• 1. Starcraft was released March 31 1998.
• 2. Released for Mac in 1999.
• 3. Debuted at E3 in 1996
• 4. Starcraft was criticized for being Warcraft in space
• 5. Artanis in Brood War said This is not Warcraft in Space
• 6. The cheat code in the original, Operation CWAL (Can't Wait Any Longer), is an homage to efforts to steal the beta before the game was released.
• 7. The first Starcraft expansion was not Brood War, it was a map-pack named Insurrection.
• 8. Numerous Starcraft novels have been written. My personal favorite: Liberty's Crusade.
• 9. Starcraft is listed in the Guinness Book of World Records 4 times.
• 10. Korean Starcraft professionals make more annually than the average Korean.
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• 11. Starcraft features management styles known as Macro and Micro.
• 12. Starcraft Brood War had a secret mission that was unlocked by finishing the last mission very quickly.
• 13. My favorite SC planet? Planet Christmas, of course!
• 14. Adun, referred to in the statement Entaro Adun, was a Protoss Templar.
• 15. Protoss do not have mouths and communicate telepathically.
• 16. A console-shooter was in development by Blizzard, named Starcraft: Ghost, but was canceled due to the upcoming release of new consoles.
• 17. Several Starcraft pros can average over 300 Actions per Minute while playing.
• 18. Berkely offers a course dedicated to Starcraft
• 19. The U.S. Air Force has used Starcraft in its training.
• 20. Koreans gamble on Starcraft matches and several scandals surrounding cheating have been unveiled.

Starcraft 2 is free to play on Battle.Net