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Half Sisters - Episode 63

The long-awaited first date between Nikki and Zach begins! But before they can leave, Zach must face his own demons - and Nikki's protective mother.

Half Sisters - Episode 63 Half Sisters - Episode 63 Half Sisters - Episode 63 Half Sisters - Episode 63 Half Sisters - Episode 63 Half Sisters - Episode 63 Half Sisters - Episode 63 Half Sisters - Episode 63 Half Sisters - Episode 63 Half Sisters - Episode 63 Half Sisters - Episode 63 Half Sisters - Episode 63 Half Sisters - Episode 63 Half Sisters - Episode 63 Half Sisters - Episode 63 Half Sisters - Episode 63 Half Sisters - Episode 63 Half Sisters - Episode 63 Half Sisters - Episode 63 Half Sisters - Episode 63 Half Sisters - Episode 63 Half Sisters - Episode 63 Half Sisters - Episode 63 Half Sisters - Episode 63 Half Sisters - Episode 63 Half Sisters - Episode 63

Comments

Yeah. 😔 There are reasons why Zach has found it so difficult to rebel against his father. He's truly a monster.

Emory Ahlberg

Emory, ty for that clarification. I had mis read that, thinking that Zach was referring to his own previous male lovers. The true meaning is barely less horrific, but not the same

mdaily

I can definitely see some awkward moments as she tries to adjust to her new body and figure out how to compensate for the loss of strength. But she is still naturally athletic, too!

Emory Ahlberg

Thanks, Elrod! Yeah, you're definitely onto something with the idea of Zach trying to emulate Nikki's strength. He's been so passive for so long, and seeing Nikki stand up to his dad is a real wake-up call for him. And I can totally see Hutchinson using Armando as leverage to keep Zach in line. He is all about manipulation! Thank you for always bringing such insightful and thought-provoking comments! 💕

Emory Ahlberg

Oh, absolutely! I'm excited to see Nikki start to tap into her strength and find her voice. I've always loved a good underdog story, and Nikki is definitely an underdog right now!

Emory Ahlberg

Thank you, mdaily! To clarify, Zach is remembering the "toys" that Hutchinson bought from Second Dawn and kept at the mansion. Zach took the time to learn their real names. His past traumas (like Nikki's) run deeper than initially shown. His father's manipulation and cruelty have left lasting scars .

Emory Ahlberg

Thank you, Robert! A potential alliance between Mary and Elaine could indeed be powerful - they're both fierce protectors who've seen through Hutchinson's facade. And you're right that the relationship between Nikki and Zach is complex and could go in several directions. Nikki is still processing massive changes while Zach carries his own baggage about identity and attraction. I want to let their connection develop organically, wherever that might lead. The facial expressions and body language are really important to me! They can often say more than dialogue. 😊

Emory Ahlberg

Well that "John Wick" poster is up in Nikki's bedroom and has been quite visible now in several episodes. Could Emory be teasing us that Nikki has her own John Wick-like bad ass moment ahead of her?

Diana O'Neil

I really enjoyed this episode and the art is outstanding, not only for its symbolic importance but for the facial detail, especially on Nikki, Mary and Zach. The discussion between Mary and Zach, and then Mary taking Sandy aside for a private conversation, raises the intriguing possibility of recreating the alliance between Mary and Elaine Ferris, two very strong women who between them, along with Sandy and Zach, could prove more than a match for Hutchinson. I’m ambivalent about which way any future relationship between Nikki and Zach could go. I think Nikki is destined for a feminine future, unlike Sandy who is probably pansexual. It really all depends on how strong Zach’s fixation on Nick/Nikki remains and how much it matters whether she is a woman or a man. I love the way you’ve set up so many possibilities, Emory. It’s yet another demonstration of your skill as a writer.

Robertlouis

Oh, and to answer your timeline question: Half Sisters is about 2 weeks "behind" Jack & Jill, but that's all! Half Sisters is in late August of 2020 Jack & Jill is in early September of 2020.

Emory Ahlberg

Emory, I just saw on the new today that the President signed an executive order banning biological males from Women's Sports. Not sure how much real life you want to introduce into your stories, but that would certainly be a point of friction or story disrupter if you chose it to be, considering Nikki is now looking at possibly entering the world of women's sports. And forgive me, but if Nikki is looking at a sport to replace football, I have to cast my vote for women's rowing! 🚣 😉

Diana O'Neil

Nikki may be beginning to get through denial and anger and beginning to bargain, as she works her way through her loss. New revelations regarding Zach, as he has apparently seen enough potential lovers tortured that he cannot recall them all. That boy is gay as hell, one horny fucker, and maybe a tad selfish himself? He is still very much a victim himself, and more traumatized than we knew before

mdaily

Emory, I love our conversations and your explanations of things and the vision you have for this story.

Diana O'Neil

Thanks Ellen! I agree, Mary and Zach have interesting dynamics. There's a warmth and understanding between them. Plus, Mary is a great moral compass. And yeah, that bike ride definitely stirred up some feelings for Nikki! The wheels are turning... haha

Emory Ahlberg

Thanks, Nolwenn! I definitely didn't want to imply that her love for the game just vanished overnight. She still loves football as a sport. It's more like the realization that her old abilities are gone, and she needs to find new ways to express her competitive spirit. She's still figuring it all out, and there will definitely be some bumps along the road. Nikki is still very physical and a natural athlete - she just needs a new outlet!

Emory Ahlberg

Thank you, Jade! I'm always trying to use the setting to reflect the emotional tone of the scene. That little chat in the entry was DEFINITELY an interrogation lol. Mary is a sweet, loving mom, but cross her, and you'll see what's what. Thank you for noticing the sky! I wanted to show that wide-open sense of possibility that's both terrifying and exhilarating. 😊

Emory Ahlberg

You're so right, Gemma, I think we all know by now that I'm all about that slow burn. 🤣 I definitely wanted to show that Zach has a lot more going on than just being a nice guy caught in a bad situation. He has his own history of trauma and abuse, and that shapes how he interacts with the world. I see his relationship with Armando, and any possible future relationship with Nikki, as part of his journey to heal. And I’m so pleased you’re appreciating all the small details! Yeah, I spend hours trying to find the right background images to give you a glimpse into the character’s souls. That's so fun for me, to see it all come together.

Emory Ahlberg

Thank you, Hel! Mamma Palmer's fierce, but the claws might REALLY come out after she has her 'talk' with Sandy! The bowling alley should be fun, I hope. It's low-key, kinda cheesy, but with plenty of opportunity for trash-talking and maybe a little accidental touching. But whether Nikki is as good as she remembers? You'll just have to wait and see! 😊

Emory Ahlberg

Thanks, DJ! Zach and Nikki definitely have a connection - and they’re both a hot mess right now, too! Maybe they'll be able to help each other figure themselves out!

Emory Ahlberg

Thank you so much! 😊

Emory Ahlberg

Thank you, Alice! You’ve got a great eye for character nuance. I can totally see Mary starting to slip up and call Nikki "she" without realizing it for a moment - hopefully Nikki isn't in the room at the time! I'm looking forward to exploring the idea of Nikki and Sandy finding joy and freedom in their new genders. One of the big steps for Nikki is putting football behind her and embracing what, or who, might be next. I’m so grateful that you’re enjoying the story so far! I put my heart into this, and it means the world that you’re connecting with it. ❤️

Emory Ahlberg

I thought you'd enjoy that view! Considering Nikki wants to drive the motorcycle next time - it seems likely! 😉

Emory Ahlberg

Thank you, Thomas. I paid extra special attention to their similarity when I was creating the model for her mom because I wanted you to hopefully sense that connection between them. Nick became a bit of a jerk for a while, and mom was afraid she was losing her child - now they both of have a second chance, even if it's under awful circumstances.

Emory Ahlberg

Thank you, Diana! I’m having so much fun writing this story, and it means a lot to know it’s resonating. As for the pacing, yeah, I'm definitely a tease! I can't help it - I love exploring all the nuances of these characters and situations, and that takes time. And in real life, that’s how things happen! People change and evolve slowly, and I want to honor that. I hear you on the “cliffhanger” frustration, though 😉 I love that y’all are as invested in Nikki and her journey as I am. I promise, the wait will be worth it! You’re also spot on about Mary. I think that having to watch this happen to her child when she couldn't stop this is, in some ways, just as tragic than what Nikki is going through - and she is going through a lot! And, yeah, I'm always dropping breadcrumbs about the past. I want you to slowly piece together the history of these characters, to see how their relationships have evolved (or devolved!) over time. Trust me, there are more secrets and connections to be revealed.

Emory Ahlberg

Thank you, Kris!!!

Emory Ahlberg

Mrs. Palmer is a rock for Nikki in so many ways. It seems almost impossible that Sandy WON'T tell at least a little about what's *really* going down - but how will Mrs. Palmer react? She's a mama bear, and mama bears protect their cubs.

Emory Ahlberg

When Nikki starts coming into herself confidence... Hutchinson has to start watching his back. Nikki is well on her way to becoming a force of nature. I look forward to the next episode!

SingularCurve

I cannot help it. She inspired me. And I trust you know what sort of "shopping" Vienna will do.

Female-Bosmer-Always

It's interesting to see that Mary is fiercely protective of Nikki to the point that causes Zack some serious self-reflection. He notes how 'strong' and 'brave' Nikki is - hefting a rock at Hutchison, when Zack is too meek to stand up to his own dad. That sets up a potential interaction between Zack and Nikki - how is it that Nikki, despite changes, is so strong? What's her secret? A possible learning moment for Zack? Will we see Zack starting to try to emulate Nikki, to be stronger, to stand up to his dad? It'd be ironic if he does try to stand up to dad, and Hutchison shuts that down hard by taking Armando into Second Dawn - shattering Zack's self-confidence once more? Then Zack has no-one to turn to except Nikki (and maybe now Sandy?) to try to rebuild his own sense of self-worth? Nikki seems to be coming to terms - albeit slowly - with being a girl now. Still a long way to go, and backing out from a 'cute' outfit shows that she's still strong and exerting control over what parts of her life she can. Kind of ironic that Nikki is slowly surrendering control over part of her life, while Zack is trying to slowly learn to control and stand strong. So much they can help and learn from each other. It was also ironic that Nikki had the same reaction to the motorcycle ride as is reputed for girls (and a girl in college did with my bike) - and finds it stimulating. It'd be really interesting if, on the way home, after a relaxing night with Zack at the bowling alley, Nikki is actually relaxed to the point that she gets off during the ride - much to her embarrassment! All in all, a very psychologically insightful episode. Few separate scenes, much revealed about what's making the various characters tick. Very well done (as usual)!!!

Elrod W

Alex this is a lot

Jade Diaz

Just an additional thought looking ahead to the next episode and Nikki and Zach competitive bowling play off. Nikki may encounter a rude awakening as she discovers she is not going to be as ‘all conquering’ bowler she used to be. This would begin with her needing a smaller weighted bowling ball. As well as this, a further wake up call around her significant loss of her previous fall back attributes of power as a result of massive loss muscle and strength that she has undergone. Also, I imagine, she may also discover how others changes in her body shape will impact on her old ‘bowling action.’ It will be interesting to see how this plays out! Hmmm gutter ball!

Gemma

That was so much fun. I enjoyed the interplay between Zach and Mary and also the slight (slight!) softening in Nikki's approach to dealing with the situation. And Nikki's reaction to the vibration of the bike? *chef's kiss!* Thank you for another fantastic episode.

Ellen Mellor

Nice episode. I really love zach inside conflicts. But I think the nikki's conclusions about stopping football came like a hair in the soup. It was like all her life she live almost only for it and in one second " bah i don't like it, it's boring" Nikki didn't even try feminin usa football team ( i don't know if it exist by the way) or ask to participate to a reel match with zach and the others.) I think this page would have been better after the bowling. If zach absolutly beat her in the most physical games ( as a joke) She could try rugby if she like contact sport with ball. It's real sport No dumb armor, the game is fast and violent. Few pause in the game so It ask fast strategie thinking and FEMININ team exist. But no foward pass except for kicking( not cool for a quaterback)) ( btw don't take my negative comments badly. But french are like that. When we love something, we look how it could be better)

Nolwenn

Consider the year when these were released: 2014 when Nick would've been 14 and starting high school.

Jade Diaz

I totally love the entry way lighting you used - it was lit like an interrogation, and in a way it was Mary Palmer cross examining Zach. Also the huge starry Texas sky and a ribbon of asphalt? Pure magic.

Jade Diaz

Thank you Diana. I do enjoy reading your thoughts and insights as well as those of other readers of Emory’s brilliant creative works.

Gemma

Gemma, we share so many of the same thoughts and feelings about this episode. But you have said them so much more eloquently.

Diana O'Neil

I absolutely can't wait for that conversation between Mary and Sandy!!! A lot of tea to be spilled. But will Sandy spill it all?

Diana O'Neil

In the background in the house the larger picture of Nicky with long hair in a football jersey as a little kid seems to be there to show the Nicky/Nikki Mary still sees her son as. Also the Nicky/Nikki that Nikki is becoming again in some ways at least in spirit and outlook. But is there something I am missing?

Diana O'Neil

Now I have to ask about the movie posters in Nikki's room; John Wick and BioShock. I think both, but I know as least John Wick have/has been in multiple other episodes. That can't be random when there are other more random less detailed posters. What does it mean? John Wick is a literal "Bad Ass", and Nikki likes using that phrase for a lot of things, like motorcycles. But will Nikki eventually go all "John Wick" on someone like Hutchinson? Is there some other meaning behind the poster?

Diana O'Neil

I also was not expecting Nikki to so quickly consider other sports, especially traditional female sports like field hockey. From some of your pin-ups and comments earlier in the story I assume she would wind up cheer-leading with Lauren. My imagination saw her possibly modeling. I expected the former possibly at least in part an imposition from Hutchinson. The latter just because of her beauty and height and being the daughter of a Miss Texas. However I absolutely LOVE the idea of her re-finding her athletic self in women's sports.

Diana O'Neil

Amazing chapter. Emory. You really are a master of the ‘slow burn’ as you put together different layers within this story that add such depth and understanding to each of the characters backgrounds and the experiences that have shaped the complexities of their personalities and this amazing story. Within this I have to tell myself to, ‘be patient,’ as the romantic within me looks for further clarity and signs around a developing attraction between Zach and Nicky. I keep having to remind myself to, take a breathe, submit and allow myself to savour this slow build up. To take in and witness the beautiful multiple layered depth as this necessary pre runner that is required before this story advances in regard to any potential romance themes that may arise in relation to Nicky. Depth and layers with this beats story: It was, for example, very important that you provided this further backstory and understanding around Zach. His past experiences with his Dad as well as previous relationships and traumas he encountered as a result of this. I also loved the way you showed further aspects of Nicky’s Mums lioness qualities. They are so reminiscent of how a Mum would be in relation to the type of pre warning a mother would give to her daughter’s date. It was also nice to see them then switch to nurturing mothering mode of understanding she then later gave to Zach. In particular, once she clarified his motives how she recognised how he too was a victim of his Dad’s megalomaniacal control. It was also to witness subtle shifts with Nicky as she prepared for her date. Whilst still is still not embracing her status she is beginning to bargain within herself, let go some old all defining rigid aspects of herself as a footballer. Seeing new possibilities, reflecting on what is important to her and being open accommodate outlets for her competitive spirit. Bring able to consider outlets outside football to attend to her competitive desires. Amazingly now being more open to sports previously just seen as ‘girls sports.’ A subtle but quite significant shift with her. It was nice seeing this competitive element being addressed and further realised for Nicky that was displayed in her enthusiasm and eagerness to challenge Zach on their ‘bowling date.’ Looking forward to seeing how this plays out and different subtle elements and layers of flirtation that often arise when boys compete against girls. Nicky’s Mum is a ‘smart cookie.’ Whilst Nicky herself is naive to Sandys manipulations, her Mum is right onto Sandy. I imagine, however, once. Mrs Palmer hears the whole story from Sandy she will embrace and join forces with Sandy to also ensure her child’s safety. It may also help Nicky’s mum to dispel any guilt she may be feeling in taking pleasure from embracing her ‘new daughter.’ She now can rationalise what she needs to do in order to keep Nicky safe. Also wanted to give a call out to the beautiful images. I love the backgrounds subtle elements. For example the picture of a young Nicky that sub consciously acknowledges this more sensitive version of who she was and this historical close bond that existed between Nicky and her Mum.

Gemma

I love re-reading the episodes because I keep absorbing in more and more each time. Like peeling back the skins of an onion. I love how Mary, Nikki's Mom, is so protective and fierce. She is a Texas woman through and through. She has also provided some more of the deets about her relationship with Elaine Ferris and Sarah Hutchinson and theirs sons. Still don't have the full story or relationship, but more pieces coming together.

Diana O'Neil

friggin genius

mdaily

Momma Palmer coming in fierce, love to see it, and Zach, seriously, you weren't going to show up? You would have been murdered, I don't even know which of those three would have but you would have been toast That recount of Hutchinson's toys is pretty haunting, but it's absolutely something that Zach needs to process. Sandy, I love her so much, just leaning into frame to look out the window. Perfect. baby Nikki in that picture looks like such a girl. and speaking of, girl, that pose in panel 16, I'm surprised Sandy didn't die. Nikki's giving Jill competition back there. a bowling alley is perfect for the date, and I hope Nikki is as good at those games as she remembers. amazing chapter It might be best if Nikki losses the games tonight, girl might get *too* distracted if she drives the bike. I'm glad both Nikki and Zach are doing their own date, not what Hutchinson expects. And sports? Nikki seeing a way forward there is a huge amount of growth. hope sandy is up to the interrogation

Helena Grace

Hell yeah! Page 20 got Nikki all revvved up. Her face is perfect. Gaaaaaah can't wait for her and Zach to finally get it on. They're so good together

DJ

Absolutely brilliant, can’t wait to see what happens. I really hope and I will love the day that it happens when Nikki’s mom starts referring to Nikki as her daughter without realising it. Also love the fact the Nikki is now realising football is over hopefully next step realising that her dream of being a man again is over as well. Anyways thanks for all the amazing writing u do really is one of my favourite things to do is read your work. So thank u so much for all the hard effort u put into this.

Alice

Wow great job!!! and page 17 is an excellent view 😉 thank you! Nikki got her “little” motor revved up on the way there. Hmm, will that continue later on??

animalmusic

I didn't notice before how similar Nikki looks to her mom, nice attention to detail.

Thomas Tolliver

Emory, Brava! Beautiful art! Great writing! Wonderful story! So much great foundation, but also so much teasing. This date is going to take months! 😱 I feel so starved and anxious waiting each month for the next release. Then it comes, it is absolutely amazing, but you leave me hanging and wanting so much more! This is worse than the 5 cent Saturday matinees my grandparents told me about that ended in a cliffhanger that kept them coming back the very next Saturday to find out how it turned out, only to have that one then also end in a cliffhanger. In the age of streaming I just so want to binge multiple episodes at once! "My problem", I know. But a testament to the power of your story and your art. Again, brava, my dear.

Diana O'Neil

LOVE IT!

Kris Greg

Muse Emory you really know how to wind up the feelings of your readers and beloved fans. Mrs. Mary Palmer is a godly and moral woman. If I didn't know any better my muse I would say that she is the exact opposite of Hutch, Kaschak, Xu and Davis...I have a feeling Sandy will spill all the beans...that she knows about Second Dawn. Mary has Hutch down to a T...the cruelty, the mad lust for power, the moral bankruptcy and utter sleaze. What did you do to Marcus, you sick, monstrous, piece of human garbage???? What did you say to Mary, Hutch??? HUTCH...HHUUTTCCCCHHH!!!! What is the Xuniverse time difference between H.S and J&J...if any? When does this take place 2019, 2020 or 2021? I understand it's Texas, but does Hutch really think "In ten years, no one will remember Nick Palmer" He can't be that insane. And you really buoyed my mood and my writing inspiration watching Zach and Nikki's competitive spirits thrive. I've always wanted to see Thunderbirds and Harleys in your Xuniverse and well, you did deliver. I hope you'll forgive me for the long reply...but Panel 7/26...chills and tears, muse Emory. As they approached the place, Nikki Palmer saw the cars parked, nose out. She smiled happily. Three 1957 Ford Thunderbirds. Two on either side in pristine Dusk Rose Pink hard & soft top, the most beautiful white inside with pink contrast stitching and piping. Gleaming white wall tires, chrome trimmed fender skirts and chromed Kelsey Hayes wire wheels hiding Stage 2 Ceramic Coated Brake discs on all four wheels. The Brides. Summer and Shunfen's T-Birds. The one in the middle...Raven Black, gleaming so beautifully it seemed to absorb the starlight...she was porcelain and ceramic coated & protected. Nikki had gazed under its hood before and it seemed to exude pure rage, its chromed grille grinning, its immensely oversized Dagmar bumper bullets looking like tusks...or artillery shells at Nikki's fear...as Nikki squeezed Zach's hand tighter. The monster under under its hood was sourced from a Mercury Turnpike Cruiser NASCAR racer, stroked, bored, balanced, blueprinted, Holley fuel injected, and with a McCuloch-Paxton supercharger. In 1957 it made 400-430 HP. Now...Nikki guessed double. The roaring acceleration sound it made...and the sounds of its exhaust was enough to make even latest model Corvettes and Challengers back off. No fender skirts, no porthole, no white wall tires, just all black with only the chrome "FORD" letters sporting from the small dog-dish hubcaps. Vienna Della Neri's car, an extension of her alive in steel, rubber, leather, Bakelite, and plush wool carpets. It's speedometer went all the way to 320 M.P.H., not K.P.H and it had Stage 3+ Carbon Fiber Ceramic Brake Kit. Rage, speed, comfort of a Rolls Royce...Vienna made no compromises. She wanted it all and she had it all. Nikki took Zach to a pool table and that's where she saw them...Miss Vienna Della Neri©™ and her fiancées: Miss Summer Chastity Crowe©™ and Shunfen Xu©™. She knew them far too well...Summer and Shunfen were sisters in suffering at Clinic 12, and they were Nikki' support...despite everything they have endured. A friendship forged by pain, despite Nikki disagreeing about Holly with Sumer and Shunfen all the time. The two made their way over introducing themselves, in their matching rose pink sundresses. "-Good evening, Nikki. Good evening, young Mr. Hutchinson." they said in unison as they bowed their heads. Two bodies, but one mind and soul they seemed at times...resisting Davis's attempts to break them. "-Zach, may I introduce to Miss Summer Chastity Crowe and Miss Shunfen Xu, my friends and colleagues from the Clinic # 12." just as a beautiful supermodel appeared dressed in all leather with polished, rounded studs, painted red white and green. The Italian flag. She smiled at Nikki and Zach, then glanced over at the two men who have been leering at her, Summer and Shunfen since they came in. She winked at them. https://www.leathercelebrities.com/images/uploads/21621/victoria_justice_attends_lmdm_grand004.jpg Summer and Shunfen made way for her as she offered her hand to Zach...who kissed it and then he saw the platinum compass ring encrusted with diamonds...worn only by Platinum Star members of Second Dawn. His father had one, but in men's size, bigger. "-Miss Vienna Della Neri, our fiancée, the youngest and brightest Platinum Star and the only star in mine and Shunfen's lives." Summer said in her angelic, Southern accented voice as Vienna glanced and winked at the two boys of have been looking at the three of them since they came in. and they gawked at Nikki too. Vienna had found a "shopping" deal. Two for the price of one. (Panel 25/26) Vienna's ring and necklace: https://media.davidyurman.com/productsv2/R25391M/R25391MSS/R25391MSSABD.jpg https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/612KaqZoT+L._AC_SL1500_.jpg "-Zachariah Hutchinson, look what a handsome Hulk you've become. And Nikki, blossoming into such a fine young lady. A pleasure to see you both, but I'm afraid we are here for both our dates as well as to do some "shopping". Come along, my loves, let's leave the lovers to their date. Set the pool table, I know how much you two have been looking forward to play with balls since your return." she said patting their behinds as they minced off to the pool table, leaving Nikki and Zach alone. Nikki looked at Zach and they understood Mary Palmer's words. The words echoed in Nikki's head. "PEOPLE CHANGE, AND NOT ALWAYS FOR THE BETTER." Vienna was speed, control, unbreakable steel, burning rage...Mount Etna on two legs. She changed...she had to...otherwise the Second Dawn would never have returned Summer, let alone given her Shunfen as well.

Female-Bosmer-Always


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