Because of it, we’ve decided to go in a different direction and therefore there’s a pause here. If our efforts produce a harvest of goodness, you’ll see more things here. If not, you may not.

Regardless, we believe that all involved — writer, author, artist, editor, reader — have all learned something from the adventures of Maggie & Penny.

Stay tuned! We hope to find out more soon!

Keep tinkering!

~Casz

As you’ve come to know over the last several months; this project is near and dear to the hearts of those assembling it behind the scenes. The mental and mechanical gears that keep us going are plunging ahead to bring you the continuation of the adventures of Maggie and Penny. With Adventure One coming to a close, our ladies have returned to Detroit, they’ve faced Le Nain Rouge for the first time, and romances are budding in places one wouldn’t expect.

Good Travels, Breaux & Company.

We are all intrigued by things to come in Adventure Two. We’ll explore deeper into the mystery of the infamous Martius Catalyst and the estate it is associated with. Will Penny ever allow more than a stolen kiss from Fynn? And Will Andrew be the breaking point in Maggie’s sanity? You’ll have to tune in for answers to these questions and to learn much more about the mysterious origins of the locket and its secrets.

~Samantha Tiner

Co-Author, Martius Catalyst

Our dear co-author, Samantha Tiner, has seen her planned festivities have a sudden date change to very, very early, so our holiday break is starting early, too. Dan Breaux and I are feeling the crush of holiday press as well. Even Penny and Maggie are settling back with their loved ones and not focusing on the adventure, but simply enjoying the time to just be. We hope you can do the same.

It is sad that our kickstarter does not appear to be one of the chosen ones this go ‘round, but don’t fear, we have some other options we plan to engage at the turn of the new year.

So stay tuned for good stuff to follow all the merrying, yuling, wassailing and general winter carnival nature that is Christmas time.

Enjoy yourselves (we hope Saint Nicolas is kind to you and that Krampus keeps away)  and we’ll be back here in 2012.

All the best,

For the rest of the team,

Casz Brewster

The illustrious Dan has been toiling away with his sketches to make the artwork for not only the upcoming episodes but also to replace art previously released during our concept phase. While Casz and I have been working to get the Kickstarter project up and promoted on various sites. But, never fear, our heroines will be back with more to the adventure soon. We wanted to take this brief interlude to tell you that we haven’t forgotten our dear Martiafans.
Casz has been playing superwoman for a while now. Her presence at Steamcon was a big success taking our project out amongst all the ladies and gentlemen in attendance. Over 200 flyers were handed out about our little project here. We certainly want to welcome any newcomers to the story. If you haven’t read the beginning of the adventure we invite you to start at the beginning with this post: Le Nain Rouge Behind Second Fire  and follow along. There is still a great deal in store for Penny and Maggie. Our first adventure only tips a much larger iceberg on the overall tale. We cannot stress enough that your feedback and support are vital to making this project work.

Both Casz and myself are participating in NanoWrimo 2011. Casz being a Municipal Liason in her area has her even more busy than usual this month. So, drop her some love on facebook, her blog, or here on MC. While I am gearing up for a few seminars on the paranormal here in Texas. Dan continues to produce awesome Martius Catalyst inspired artwork that can be seen both on the MC site and on his Facebook page.

There is much more in store for our adventurers so we certainly hope that you’ll return next week for more. If you want to stay up to date on the posts, behind the scenes info on the Kickstarter and the plans for 2012 and Adventure Two, join our Martius Catalyst Facebook page. You can also follow us on Twitter: @MartiusCatalyst.

Stay tuned folks, the wheels are just getting up to full steam power.

Le Nain Rouge Behind Second Fire in Detroit

Then you should be able to read in order.

Please comment here if you have any trouble.

Enjoy!

~Casz

Co-Author, Martius Catalyst

I am no stranger to the workings of the more esoteric and theosophical movements. Indeed, I am reminded as I write this entry of an untapped source of knowledge to which I may be forced to turn at this point. These outlines, diagrams, and instructions seem to be part of an elaborate system of rituals designed for an intended purpose rather than the beauty they no doubt possessed.

The purpose for these rituals has me baffled. There are references to at least five of the saints, angels, and then there are also symbols that I have yet to understand the meaning of. There is but a single mention of a figure that I have long been hearing about in the sorts of circles I am used to entertaining – Le Nain Rouge. Known as some sort of monster that terrorizes the city, it has been blamed for a number of otherwise unrelated disastrous events. While part of me wants to say that such a man of science, as Dr. Greeves appeared to be, would not be so prone to believing in superstitious ghouls and goblins, it appears as if he very may have had a paranormal streak to his beliefs.

His work seems to be primarily alchemical in nature. These journals are completely incomprehensible in places, meaning that they serve as both a record of his experiments and as a sort of personal journal where he elucidates on his own thoughts on spirituality, magick, and philosophy.

I admit that I am not as versed in the ancient art of alchemy as I would like to be in order to better understanding of his notations. So, as I work on the translations, I find that I have to rely upon the texts that I can find to associate with the subject. Fortunately, my French is up to the challenge, for I cannot find a worthy American or English commentary on the subject.

Maggie is supposed to be tracking down some further information as well.

I don’t believe there is much of a way to get around making the trip to Huron and seeing the estate ourselves. I am convinced that there are at least two journals still within the walls of the Greeves’ home. One I am quite certain is hidden in the library in an enclave that is hidden by a smaller bookcase. I only hope that the state of the house is at least enough intact for us to be able to locate some of what I am finding to be missing details of an elaborate puzzle.

There is a bit of history to the Greeve’s house as well. Greeves was convinced that the property held some sort of significance. There are some native stories that I am going to have to take a look into as well. Even if only by folklore, there could be some significance to the location he chose to build the house on. He makes mention of a particular local legend about something called the Martius Catalyst. I’ve never heard of it, of course, I’m not all that versed in the local legends of the natives either.

I must remember to talk with Maggie about this. She has mentioned before that her assistant, Mr. Morretti is well versed in the local lore and customs of the native people. Perhaps he will be of some manner of assistance to us in uncovering what is necessary to understand what was happening behind closed doors at the Greeves estate. More importantly, we need to have an understanding of what Dr. Greeve’s understood to be happening that made this practice such a serious endeavor for him.

Father has made it clear that we are to have some sort of function in the weeks ahead at Mullholland Manor. His recent campaign victory is a pressing matter that requires attention, of course. However it is times like these when I miss mother most keenly. I would rather be focusing my attention on these translations rather than planning for a social gala. I envy Maggie, I know I shouldn’t, but I do. She has all the freedom in the world to explore and pursue her passions whenever she takes a notion to do so. I am bound by rules of society and must play the good daughter.

I confess that I am considering taking an office of some sort somewhere away from home. There are many things that draw my attention away from the work at hand. I am now considering the possibility of creating a center for education in the matters of spiritualism. It certainly would seem like a logical course, but I am concerned with how this would affect Father’s political career as well. I’m something of an eccentricity, I know. It can’t be easy for him to explain to many of the people he must always deal with on a daily basis. So many closed minds in such a vibrant and progressive community always serve as a perplexing part of my world.

I shall book a trip to take a look at the Greeves Estate. I know, based on the auctions that the property is up for sale. I should think that the possible purchase would make a good cover story for us to be able to wander the halls a bit and attempt to locate some of the hidden journals.

The trip will have to be an overnight adventure for Maggie and me. There is no other way in which we can truly gain the sort of insight that we seek without time and the locating of the additional journals.

Ultimately there is much work to be done in the weeks ahead. I still have so much left to translate that it seems a daunting task to my mind. But I confess that the discovery associated with the work keeps me going well into the night most often. Lately, I’ve been burning through more candles than usual. There are a number of concerns about my late evenings and tired eyes the following morning. But, such has been my way of life for the past five years.

University prepared me for this sort of life. Many late nights studying for exams and composing the necessary research documents for my courses. It made father proud then and I know that on some level he is proud even now. I realize his concerns over this particular curiosity, but as I have already assured him of our intentions with what we find, there is a bit of caution to our already precarious interaction with would-be opposing parties.

I do hope that this Cosgrove fellow doesn’t cause problems for my father. I wouldn’t think of it; that is to say I don’t believe him to be of the same social caliber as our family, except that he seems to be following either Maggie or myself around. He shows up in the most peculiar places. In fact, as I was at the produce stand on Gratiot Ave., I could have sworn that I saw him on the corner. Then, a bit later, I could have sworn I caught sight of him as I was having tea with Adeline Govens.

It is strange to me, to say the least. But perhaps, Maggie’s perceived paranoia is something of an influence on me. I should hope that I could overcome such and remain practical, but I do see her point with this Cosgrove character. Maybe there is some safety in remaining skeptical of him after all.

Dear Mother and Father:

I do know that if anyone should find these letters they will lock me up in Kellogg Sanitarium in Battle Creek, but I am unable to stop writing them. They are very much an exercise in clearing my head and making sure my schemes and plans are not actually going to land me into that institution organically.

Things for the most part are going well. I have solid people in my life all around and interesting things to fill my time without it being too toilsome.

You would be happy to know Father, that Fynn is doing well at Medical School and continues to serve the role of sister’s keeper.  Mr. Davenport continues to try to be a surrogate guardian as well. However, most fatherly advice these days comes from the fastidious Mr. Moretti.  He is without a doubt one of the most intelligent men I know when it comes to matters of common sense and experience.  He continues to be a huge part of the emporium these days. My tinkering skills have increased beyond measure and reproach by merely apprenticing with him – in between adventures with my dearest friend, Penny Davenport.

Her father is hosting a gala soon and Andrew will be home, which puts me a bit on edge. Andrew and I are such similar souls and delight in each others company; however, we lead such different lives, and not the sort that can seemingly weld together though I do care a great deal for him. Regardless, I am looking forward to seeing him again. It has been a long time.

Penny and I have what seems to be the most important quest of our lives ahead of us. I do hope that you are looking down upon us and keeping us protected from all that would do us harm – to include this man in grey, Liam Cosgrove – if that is even his name! I don’t think I’d ever do business with him. My instinct, as you taught me, Father, is that he is up to nothing but ill. I don not wish to be a part of the nastiness that surrounds that man. My goal is to be rid of his pestering once and for all. But, he is insistent and that may take some doing and assistance from others, which frustrates me.

The incription on the back of the Martius Catalyst locket — Artwork by Jackie Fedyk

Well I must prepare for my journey to Port Huron with Penny.

Your daughter always,

Maggie

The bell chimed in the front of the shop where Maggie had been tinkering with an ornate lock on a trunk that she had purchased. Mr. Moretti had taken a small excursion to pick up another purchase that she had made at auction. So Maggie put down her tools and went through the door into the outer shop to find Penny perusing the glass cases.

“As if you don’t get the first pick of the lots?”

“Well you never know when I might overlook something that may not be as shiny until you or Mr. Moretti clean and repair it,” Penny said with all the seriousness of a priest during confession.

Maggie gave a chuckle and put her hands on her hips as Penny came around the case she had been peering into.

So have you any idea on where we can find the rest of the journals yet? I know you Penny Davenport, you’ve likely slept very little since you took them from this workshop.”

Penny tucked her gloves into the small bag she carried with her and smiled. When Penny began to relay the details of her plan to find the other journals, Maggie was delighted yet unsurprised.

Maggie adored airships. They were a new technology that made her heart pound. Despite her treks to Port Huron for various auctions, Maggie had never actually been on an airship. It was always a luxury for which she couldn’t spare the expense. With Penny making the plans, there was little doubt that she would finally be able to take make a reality of that adventure.

“I have a good idea of where the journals could be located. I wrote to the estate and learned that it is actually up for sale. I had to come over early this afternoon to tell you. Quite frankly, this makes our task easier. It isn’t going to be so difficult for us to get in and take a look around at length,” Penny said.

“We could always take a train, Penny,” Maggie suggested.

“Nonsense, I’ve already got the tickets to leave first thing tomorrow. I was certain that you could have Mr. Moretti look after the shop. I hope that’s acceptable. I didn’t think that you would want to delay any further.”

Penny was keenly aware of Maggie’s stance on the matter of money. Penny had never had a need to worry about it. When she wanted something she purchased it, when she needed something, it was provided. Sometimes she forgot that Maggie, despite her solid financial status, didn’t have disposable income. Except that it wasn’t so much that she forgot about it, as it was that she didn’t understand why it needed to be a hurdle for them to overcome constantly. Penny had the means to provide their way and she was more than happy to do so; especially when it was in the pursuit of knowledge

That is acceptable, Penny,” Maggie assured with a smile.

“We will need to stay overnight in order to exhaust the possible options. I’ll take care of the accommodations as well.”

“If it’s all the same to you, I’d like to handle that portion of the trip. It is the least that I can do considering that you’re taking us on an airship.”

“Very well,” Penny said with a kind smile, “I have to meet with a caterer this afternoon. Father is having another gala to celebrate the electoral win.”

“Then I’ve no doubt that you’ve been busy,” Maggie said, feeling no envy for Penny’s role as the lone woman in a family of wealth and stature. It meant a whole lot of duties that Maggie knew she had zero patience. But, since George Davenport now sat at as one of the most powerful men in the county, as its commissioner, Penny would need to host parties and teas and other despiteful social engagements. Poor Penny, Maggie thought.

“We’ll be having it a week from tomorrow,” Penny said. “You’ll be there, won’t you?”

“It would be poor taste if I weren’t,” Maggie smiled, although Penny saw a flash of dread. “I suppose I shall simply have to don the formal apparel again and make the most of it.”

Penny smiled and chuckled. She knew that her father would be pleased to hear of Maggie’s RSVP even if informally.She was quite certain that they would eventually find time away from the throngs of people in their home to talk about whatever they might find.

In the silence that ensued, Penny remembered a piece of information that was sure to make Maggie more interested in attending.

“Andrew will be there actually.”

“Yes, I reckoned.”

“I had a letter from him in the post yesterday. He’s making the trek and is likely already on his way. We’re expecting him to arrive the night before, at minimum,” she confirmed.

Maggie had always liked Andrew. He was more like her despite his status. He’d been given the unfortunate task of taking over part of the family business. Since Penny’s other brother George had become an attorney, someone in the Davenport family had to take over their textiles business. It was an unfortunate part, in Maggie’s mind, of being a male member of the family.

Andrew was, by his nature and curiosity, an inventor. He was one of the few people aside from Fynn and Mr. Moretti that Maggie would entrust with her valuable finds. However, his love of invention had placed him in good company. He didn’t often find time to come back to Detroit; however, it was always a treat when he managed the trek.

“I’ll look forward to seeing him.  It will allow me to hide away from all of the sociable people while you’re mingling with the crowds.”

Penny knew that Maggie would decline any sort of trip to see a caterer about a social event. So they set a time that Penny would pick her up by carriage and she bade her good afternoon.

Martius Catalyst Team finds Artistic Teammate

As many of you who have been following the goblin-like hobbling of the Martius Catalyst story being regular and routine — the need of an artist has been a project of tinkering for Sam and Casz. They have had many false starts in their efforts to bring you a multimedia story because of this unmet need.  It was if they had their own Le Nain Rouge curse.  However, a mild-mannered art alchemist has given them the elixir to all that ailed them in that battle.

The Martius Catalyst team is pleased to announce that the talented Dan Breaux has agreed to join the team and move Martius Catalyst into the airspace of steampunk greatness.   Dan and Casz met through their mutual love of the genre and the band, Abney Park.  Keeping the theme of  a virtual team and collaborative art, Dan, Casz & Sam have never met face-to-face, keeping mystery not only inside the story of Martius Catalyst, but also outside of it.  One day, when Dan was in need of a subject to sketch, he asked for suggestions on his facebook page.  He sketched Casz (seen here below). A quick lunch-time sketch began an investigation into his art and creative ability.

It wasn’t long before Casz and Sam realized their  artistic partner was right in front of them.  Soon, you’ll see his art and on the heels of that, the Martius Catalyst team will have another announcement to make.

More about Dan Breaux: When Dan isn’t working at his day job in the cutting edge laser industry he is a freelance graphic artist, illustrator, and animator living in Oakland CA, with his loving wife and infant son.  Raised by two gifted artistic patents, Dan has been drawing for as long as he can remember.  A student of multimedia arts and technology, with a deep-rooted foothold on traditional technics, Dan truly is a modern day renaissance man who’s interests of study run the gamut from theoretical physics to ancient astronaut theory, with an emphasis on history, industrial innovation and science fiction. In addition to his work over the years as an independent comic book writer, lead artist, and comic strip cartoonist Dan has also maintained a successful freelance corporate branding design service. As a Steampunk enthusiast, Dan is most well known for his animated music videos for renowned Steampunk band Abney Park.

Steampunk author, Casz Brewster in her writing workshop. (Quick Sketch by Dan Breaux)

By Colin Faraday

Staff ReporterSea travel is becoming less favored among the privileged of Detroit. Arriving at the newly dubbed “air field” yesterday was the AIRSHIP DAUNTLESS along with her Capt. Avery Schwartz, who stopped long enough from his duties to answer some questions about the experience aboard the newest form of luxury liners.Approaching the airship is an awe-inspiring experience. As you approach you start to see the large balloon-like structure of the airship come into view. Within a matter of moments, whether on foot or by coach, it soon dominates the horizon. Ground crews continually check the large anchoring cables that hold it low enough to the ground to accommodate the boarding stairs that are moved into place and away as needed.

AIRSHIP DAUNTLESS hits Detroit — the new way to travel attracts hundreds (Art work by Dan Breaux)

The Captain assures of the highest standards aboard the AIRSHIP DAUNTLESS. He said it boasts the most advanced instruments and a crew more than capable of handling the airways over the waterways it is set to traverse. As for luxury, the AIRSHIP DAUNTLESS is a prime spectacle for Detroit’s elite. Its brass rails, velvet seating with silk accents in the main lounge is not only the epitome of luxury but also provides the most spectacular aerial views from what is called the sky deck; it is a large windowed area with ample seating for up to 100 passengers. This area is more like a lounge and offers a full-service restaurant on board with waitstaff and crew able to assist at a moment’s notice.

The sky deck is, according to Schwartz, the more popular feature on the vessel with its panoramic windows. However, he also tells of two additional passenger deck areas. A lower deck houses the main functions of the craft and enables the crew to perform their duties. While the second deck houses a limited number of posh sleeping cabins and other personal facilities. A smaller version of the skydeck is available for passengers on a limited budget allowing similar aerial views from porthole -like windows.

No matter where passengers go on AIRSHIP DAUNTLESS they will be met with excellent service, said the Service Hostess Manager, Mrs. Catherine Wilson. Gleaming brass rails, and views that are unmatched in other travel options, she noted.

Schwartz is taking the AIRSHIP DAUNTLESS on its maiden voyage to Port Huron on May 14. Adding that many have already purchased their boarding passes, including Detroit Socialite Miss Penelope Anne Davenport.

Limited tickets are still available for the voyage to Port Huron. City officials are calling the arrival of this travel wonder a pioneering feat in the field of travel. It is speculated that the new airship will open up new opportunities for those who commute to Port Huron for work or holiday.

The owners of AIRSHIP DAUNTLESS expect a large turnout for this move into a new era of travel, and issued a statement that they do not believe that the airship will replace the steamers entirely.

“This just affords new options for the most adventurous of travelers,” said Aloysius Bomarito, prominent business man and partner in AIRSHIP DAUNTLESS. The Detroit Tribune will be on hand for the maiden launch of the Dauntless.