Either way, it’s just another wrinkle in his personality and the fact that I may have hoped for one thing is entirely unimportant. The character is believable, written well and helping to get some well roundness.

The scene with the girls was entirely unplanned. When I sat down to write this installment, I realized I needed to deal with the physical fallout from the last episode, so I just kinda slapped that scene together, figuring Wireframe would eventually come up with something.

There’s definitely a Big Brother thing going on with the headmistress. I’ll get into the nitty-gritty of that in the next week or so.

And, yeah, I was going for petty in that final scene. The really bright people I’ve personally encountered — of which, granted, there haven’t been a ton — would either deal with this kind of interpersonal conflict by shrinking away or by throwing a tantrum, acting rash and childish, regardless of their age. Since Wireframe’s the shrinker here, Cortex went the other way. Sorry it didn’t work for you.

It’s so simple yet this exchange sets up the individuality of the girls so beautifully:

“Erm, sorry to interrupt.” Wireframe placed her crocheting needles on her lap. “But, I…I might be able to save you a few trips — and spare you some back strain.”

“Do tell.” The Latina dropped the frame.

“Do show.” The Chinese teen slid her hands free.

Wireframe’s meek, uncertain brilliance. Deathgrip, certainly capable, but unwilling to act. Spatter’s strength and take-charge attitude. Just…brilliant.

Is there some kind of Big Brother thing I’m unaware of? Does the headmistress survey the students, or did they come to her abot Deadlift? I did I miss an explanation somewhere?

Okay, you were right. I despised Cortex’s exchange with Popular. I understand he needed a foil, because while being antagonistic to it all himself, he’s essentially perfect.

And I DO understand that Cortex is arrogant…as well he should be. I just, I don’t know, I think for a guy that smart, this all seems a bit rash and childish, not calm and calculated. Maybe that’s his age finally showing through (which I’m okay with) but, yeah, it just seems petty.

I’m glad Cortex’s integrity is still intact for you. I was worried about how he’d weather that storm from the reader perspective.

…*fingers crossed*…

Cortex is still my favourite but I’m feeling a lot of sympathy for Mr. Popular right now.

Keep up the good work!