I Know This Is A Little Late But I Want @somerandomdudelmao To Know That I Am Still Absolutely REELING

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Surprise. Sadly, we're not getting off that easy since these final moments are important. Krang 1 is actually pretty fun to draw but so time consuming. Some themes of self worth and life vs death are starting to be brought up here that I do want to seriously talk about, but I think I'll wait until a better moment a little later in the arch. It's a talk that I think is worth discussing within a safe space, though I can only go as far as to give my own personal experiences. Until then.

Also, Mikey's starting to learn how to make sacred circles! He'll get better at it eventually. I know there's quite a bit of scene jumping going on as of late but it's kind of the running theme of this arch as we hop back and forth between each of these different stories. Hopefully it won't be too hard to follow once we wrap up the final recording.

Also also, I know the Krang's hand should probably MUCH bigger in the last panel since he's so huge, but for the sake of keeping the shot legible just go with it. As always, thank you so much you guys for your patience and all your kind words!

Another palette, my bro's blorbos

RISE TMNT FANS

Tiresias song from Epic the musical

Mutant Ninja Midlife Crisis by @mutantninjamidlifecrisis

Well...it took me a little over a month to create this thing. Five days of which I actually drew and spent the other thirty on procrastination lmao

I see you, and you are ABSOLUTELY correct

Things I Need To See If When We Get Rottmnt Season 3

-More Apritello (wait don't leave yet!)

-It doesn't need to be romantic (although they have such a good dynamic I honestly wouldn't mind if they did as long as it was done right)

-but seriously, they're just chaotic together and I need more of that

-Along those lines I also feel like there needs to be more one on one time with April and Leo as well as April and Raph

-Like??

-Both duos are so good and they just don't get enough screen time at all

-Also, I need the turtles + Splinter to actually meet April's parents

-Did I know I needed this until I saw the disaster twins psyched for a nice dinner in their matching sweater vests? No.

-Do I need it now more than ever? Y e s.

-I also need them to actually acknowledge the events of the movie and not just brush past it like it was no big deal. Let it come up later. Let the rest of the turtles be just-barely-noticeably a lot more overprotective when it comes to Leo. Don't tell me they would almost lose him like that and continue letting him be reckless all the time.

-GIVE. ME. MORE. CASEY.

-You CANNOT just add her to the mix and dip like that. I NEED to see how she fits in with the group. Will her and Donnie be completely unhinged together? Absolutely. Will Splinter dote on her like she's his daughter and she'll absolutely love it and swear to make him proud? Probably. Will her and April be an absolute girl boss team together and probably have sleepovers while gossiping about whatever? Y e s. Will she be completely unused to getting positive reinforcement and being part of an actual family who loves her even if she makes mistakes? For sure. But will she adore it? Um, yes!

-Leader Leo Leader Leo Leader Leo Leader Leo Leader Leo Leader Leo Leader Leo Leader Leo

-Will this poor boy be immediately overwhelmed with this responsibility and continuously doubt himself? Yes. But Raph would be giving him tips and pointers the entire time because he KNOWS how stressful it is to keep everyone in line and stop them from getting hurt or worse. Let Leo come to terms with his role and realize he's actually really good at it! Let him be so relieved to finally feel like he has a place on the team and isn't actually a useless screw-up.

-Alternatively, show us how Raph feels about this development! Will he be proud of his little brother for stepping up? Of course! But maybe, just maybe, he goes through some withdrawals? Maybe he has a hard time remembering that he's not in charge anymore and Leo is the one calling the shots. Maybe he feels a little lost on his place in the team now that he isn't the leader. Would his brothers immediately reassure him that he's still irreplaceable and is just as important to the team now as he was before? Yes, but it still might take him some time to get used to that.

-Mikey Magic. Magic Mike. (Jk)

-You really can't tell us Mikey is some powerful mystic warrior and not expect us to want more answers. Can he control it? Or is it fuelled by fear and desperation? Can he learn to harness his power without his brothers absorbing the energy with him? If done correctly, does this potentially open the stage to Mikey being able to time travel whenever he chooses? That could be interesting.

-Soft Shell Donnie

-Maybe it's just my desire for angst, but I think we should see more of Donnie without his battle shell. It would certainly make for more dramatic fight scenes if that vulnerability was exposed more.

Here are a few more minor ones that have zero plot relevance but I just think would be neat:

-Raph should get some sort of pet

-The turtles should occasionally make little chirps and hisses like real turtles do

-April should have a bigger wardrobe

-We should see Mikey actually graffiti something (I know he's the artsy one but have we ever actually seen him paint something??)

-I would love an episode centered around a hatred fueled disaster twin prank war. (Each prank gets progressively more crazy and dangerous until the others have to eventually interfere so they don't kill each other)

-Let Donnie perform a musical number like the absolute theater kid he is (other than a rap?)

-Random, but I also think it'd be funny if Mayhem had a growth spurt and was actually meant to be the size of a tiger. Plus April could ride him into battle like the badass she is.

That's all I could think of for now. Feel free to chime in any ideas you have!

Okay but THIS dynamic when characters realize their feelings for each other

Autism be damned

This is an old one but I started thinking about what if April ever had to move out of New York whether it be for work, college, etc….the boys would not be able to handle it💔

Turns out Ghost Light is good for drawing

New additions to my Etsy shop!!

Etsy

LexaKateCreates - Etsy

Shop items by LexaKateCreates.

(Obviously w/out the signatures) :))

Everything You Need to Know About Writing Burns 

Burn injuries are a common wound type explored throughout various aspects of literature. Unlike stab wounds burns come in various different forms. Every burn cannot be the same. The substance, intensity, and contact level all play pivotal roles in determining the nature of the burn your character must endure.

I previously did a blog about everything you need to know about stab wounds, which you can find here, and decided to continue this series with burns. So, here's my guide on everything you need to know when writing burns. 

Understanding Burn Types

Burn injuries are as diverse as the situations that create them. To depict burns realistically, it's essential to understand the different types, each with its own unique characteristics and narrative significance. 

First-Degree Burns

First-degree burns are superficial injuries, often caused by brief contact with a hot surface, a mild sunburn, or scalding steam. These burns primarily affect the outermost layer of skin, the epidermis. While painful, they typically don't result in blisters. First-degree burns can serve as plot devices, adding realistic touches to scenes involving minor accidents or unexpected contact with hot objects.

Second-Degree Burns

Second-degree burns are more complex and can be painful and blistering. These burns affect both the epidermis and the layer beneath, the dermis. They can result from scalds, flames, or chemical exposure. In literature, second-degree burns are ideal for portraying characters' struggles with painful healing and the potential for scarring.

Third-Degree Burns

Third-degree burns are the most severe and life-altering. They extend deep into the skin, damaging or destroying not only the epidermis and dermis but also the subcutaneous tissues. These burns can result from prolonged exposure to flames, chemicals, or electricity. 

Third-degree burns can be used to introduce profound challenges and transformations in characters' lives. The road to recovery is long and arduous, often with permanent physical and emotional scars, which can be used for character development.

Intricately depicting these burn types in your writing adds layers of realism and authenticity to your characters' experiences.

Chemical Burns

Chemical burns result from contact with corrosive substances, including strong acids or alkalis. They are typically more complex to portray in literature due to the need for specific knowledge about the chemicals involved. The narrative implications can vary widely, from accidents in laboratories to criminal acts of violence involving acid attacks or other harmful substances.

Electrical Burns

Electrical burns occur when the body comes into contact with electric currents, leading to tissue damage. These burns are unique in that they may not manifest external signs immediately. They can be used in stories involving electrical accidents, lightning strikes, or even superhuman abilities.

Radiation Burns

Radiation burns, often linked to exposure to ionizing radiation, are less common but offer a distinctive narrative dimension. These burns can result from nuclear events, medical treatments, or even futuristic scenarios involving radiation-based technology.

The Burn Substance And The Impact It Plays 

When it comes to depicting burns in your writing, understanding the substance involved can significantly impact the narrative. Different substances, from scalding liquids to caustic chemicals, introduce unique challenges and effects on the characters experiencing them. 

Scalding Liquids (Hot Water, Coffee, etc.): Scalds are common in everyday life, often resulting from accidental spills or moments of carelessness. These burns are typically first-degree, affecting the outer layer of skin. In your narratives, scalding liquids can add a touch of realism to scenes involving kitchen mishaps, hot beverage spills, or even cruel pranks.

Flames (Fire, Gasoline, etc.): Flames lead to more severe burns, ranging from second to third-degree injuries. Whether it's a house fire or an encounter with a fiery adversary, burns from flames introduce high-stakes situations and profound character development.

Chemical Substances (Acids, Alkalis, etc.): Chemical burns, caused by contact with corrosive acids or alkalis, offer a myriad of storytelling opportunities. These burns are often disfiguring and can result from accidents in labs, criminal acts, or acts of revenge.

Electrical Current: Electrical burns may not manifest external signs immediately, making them unique in burn descriptions. These can result from electrical accidents, lightning strikes, or even futuristic scenarios involving advanced technology.

Radiation Exposure: Radiation burns, linked to exposure to ionizing radiation, are less common but provide a distinctive narrative dimension. They can result from nuclear events, medical treatments, or futuristic scenarios involving radiation-based technology.

Understanding the substance involved allows you to accurately portray the type and severity of a burn, making your narrative more authentic and engaging.

Sensory Descriptions and Variations

When it comes to writing about burns, it's crucial to engage your readers' senses. Burns evoke a range of sensory experiences and effectively describing these sensations can immerse your audience in the narrative. Here are some factors you should take into consideration: 

Pain: Burns are notoriously painful. Depending on the degree of the burn, the pain can range from mild discomfort to excruciating agony. Describing the character's pain, its intensity, and how it evolves over time can create a deep emotional connection with your readers.

Heat: Burns often generate intense heat at the injury site. Describe the searing heat or scorching sensation as it radiates from the burn. This adds realism to your portrayal of the immediate aftermath of the injury.

Smell: Burns can produce a distinct odour. The smell of burnt flesh or singed hair can be nauseating or evoke feelings of dread. Including sensory details related to smell can enhance the reader's immersion in the scene.

Texture: The texture of a burn can vary. First-degree burns might feel raw or tender, while second and third-degree burns can result in blistering, peeling, or even charring. Explore how the character perceives the texture of the burn and its impact on their daily life.

Sound: The sound associated with burns can be subtle or pronounced. The sizzle or hiss when a burn comes into contact with hot metal, or the muffled cries of a character in pain, can amplify the emotional impact of a burn scene.

Numbness: In some cases, particularly with severe burns, the area surrounding the burn might feel numb due to nerve damage. This contrast in sensation can be a powerful narrative element in a character's journey to recovery.

By using sensory descriptions and variations, you can transport your readers into the world of your characters and make the experience of burns more vivid and memorable.

Anatomy of a Burn Wound

To depict burns convincingly in your writing, it's essential to understand the anatomical aspects of a burn wound. Burns affect different layers of skin and underlying tissues, and the depth of the burn significantly influences the healing process and long-term consequences. Here's a closer look at the anatomy of burn wounds:

Epidermis: The epidermis is the outermost layer of skin and is primarily responsible for protecting the body from the environment. First-degree burns affect the epidermis and are characterized by redness, pain, and mild swelling.

Dermis: The dermis lies beneath the epidermis and is thicker. Second-degree burns extend into the dermis and result in the formation of blisters, intense pain, and possible scarring. These burns can be particularly challenging for characters due to the pain and extended healing process.

Subcutaneous Tissues: Third-degree burns, also known as full-thickness burns, penetrate the dermis and affect the subcutaneous tissues. These burns often result in charring, loss of sensation, and long-term scarring. Characters with third-degree burns may face life-altering challenges and lengthy recoveries.

Muscle and Bone: In severe cases, burns can extend beyond the subcutaneous tissues, affecting muscles and even bones. These deep burns are catastrophic, leading to a range of complications and necessitating complex medical treatment.

Understanding the anatomical layers affected by a burn allows you to provide accurate descriptions of the injury, its consequences, and the challenges faced by characters on their journey to recovery.

How Do You Treat A Burn Wound? 

In your writing, portraying the accurate medical assessment and treatment of burn injuries can add depth and authenticity to your narrative. Characters' survival and recovery often depend on prompt and effective medical care. Here's what you need to know about medical assessment and treatment for burn injuries:

First Aid: Immediate first aid is crucial when a character sustains a burn. This includes cooling the burn with cold running water, covering it with a clean, non-stick cloth, and seeking medical attention. Accurate descriptions of the first-aid process can create a realistic sense of urgency in your story.

Medical Assessment: Medical professionals categorize burns based on their depth and extent. The "Rule of Nines" is a common method to estimate the percentage of the body affected by a burn. Accurately describing how healthcare providers assess and categorize the burn can enhance the realism of your narrative.

Wound Care: The treatment of burn wounds involves cleaning, debriding, and dressing the affected area. This can be painful, especially for deeper burns. Your characters' reactions to this aspect of treatment can add emotional depth to your story.

Surgery and Skin Grafts: Severe burns often require surgery and skin grafts to promote healing and minimize scarring. Detailed descriptions of these procedures and their impact on your characters can provide insight into the challenges they face.

Rehabilitation: Characters recovering from severe burns may require extensive rehabilitation, including physical therapy and psychological support. These aspects can significantly influence their character arcs and the overall narrative.

By accurately depicting the medical assessment and treatment of burn injuries, you can make your characters' journeys to recovery more authentic and compelling.

Common Mistakes and Misconceptions

While writing about burn injuries, it's essential to avoid common mistakes and misconceptions. Authors may inadvertently perpetuate inaccuracies in burn treatment. Here are a few common misconceptions to be aware of:

Applying Ice: Contrary to common belief, applying ice directly to a burn can damage the skin further. It's essential to emphasize the use of cold running water for cooling.

Popping Blisters: Characters might be tempted to pop blisters, but this can increase the risk of infection. Describing the correct care for blisters can improve the accuracy of your narrative.

Neglecting Long-Term Effects: Burns can have lasting physical and psychological effects. Ensure your characters' struggles and recoveries reflect the long-term consequences of burn injuries.

By addressing common mistakes and misconceptions, you can create a more accurate and engaging portrayal of burn treatment in your writing.

What About The Psychological Impact?

Burn injuries don't just affect the physical well-being of characters; they also have a profound psychological impact. Understanding the emotional and mental challenges your characters face can add depth to your storytelling. 

Post-Traumatic Stress: Characters who have survived burn injuries may experience post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Vivid flashbacks, nightmares, and anxiety can be depicted to illustrate their emotional struggles.

Body Image and Self-Esteem: Severe burns can alter a character's appearance, leading to body image issues and reduced self-esteem. Describing how characters come to terms with these changes can be a central aspect of their character arcs.

Fear and Anxiety: Characters may develop a heightened fear of fire, stoves, or any situation that could cause burns. Depicting these anxieties and how they impact daily life can create a compelling narrative.

Depression and Isolation: The emotional toll of burn injuries can lead to depression and isolation. Characters may withdraw from social interactions or grapple with feelings of hopelessness.

Coping Mechanisms: Characters often develop unique coping mechanisms to deal with the psychological aftermath of burns. Some may seek therapy, while others may find solace in creative pursuits or support groups.

By exploring the psychological impact of burns, you can delve into the complex emotional journey of your characters and illustrate their resilience and growth.

Looking At The Forensic Considerations

In crime fiction and mysteries, burn injuries can play a crucial role in forensic investigations. Authors should be aware of the forensic aspects of burns to accurately depict legal and investigative processes. Here are some essential forensic considerations when writing about burns:

Fire Investigation: In cases of suspicious fires or arson, investigators must determine the cause and origin of the fire. Understanding fire investigation techniques and terminology can help create a realistic portrayal of crime scenes involving burns.

Identifying the Victim: Severe burns can complicate the identification of victims. Dental records, DNA analysis, and other forensic methods may be required. Your characters can collaborate with forensic experts to solve such cases.

Evidence Preservation: When writing about burn-related crimes, emphasize the importance of preserving evidence at the scene. The mishandling of evidence can significantly impact the investigation's outcome.

Legal Implications: Explore the legal aspects of cases involving burns. Characters may need to navigate the legal system, testify in court, or seek justice for burn-related crimes.

Historical Cases: Referencing real historical cases involving burns or fires can add authenticity to your narrative. Research well-documented cases for inspiration or incorporate them into your story's background.

Understanding the forensic considerations related to burn injuries can make your crime fiction or mystery more compelling but it also helps ensure you don’t accidentally offend any readers by inaccurately representing real issues. 

I hope this blog on Everything You Need to Know About Writing Burns will help you in your writing journey. Be sure to comment any tips of your own to help your fellow authors prosper, and follow my blog for new blog updates every Monday and Thursday.  

Looking For More Writing Tips And Tricks? 

Are you an author looking for writing tips and tricks to better your manuscript? Or do you want to learn about how to get a literary agent, get published and properly market your book? Consider checking out the rest of Haya’s book blog where I post writing and publishing tips for authors every Monday and Thursday! And don’t forget to head over to my TikTok and Instagram profiles @hayatheauthor to learn more about my WIP and writing journey!