Ian has revealed some cool news about things to come for Sonic in 2009 and on!

Alrighty! I just got the go ahead to drop some tasty tidbits your way.

First off, let's talk about artists. We've got a few of 'em, and they're all awesome.

You like Steve Butler? Of course you do. He's doing the lead story for STH#202.

We've got a new-comer named Jamal Peppers and he'll be tackling most of the back-ups. I've seen his work, and I'm very happy with what he's producing. He's definitely an exciting up-and-comer in the book.

Tracy Yardley isn't going anywhere. He's more-or-less the visionary for Sonic Universe - covers and interiors.

Oh, and some guy called "Spaz" will be doing most of the covers for STH#203 onward. I haven't seen his stuff, but I hear he's okay. We'll see. 😉

Ah, but what about the stories? We're obviously heading into some new territory here, but just what's going to happen?

"Iron Dominion" is going to dominate the book for the foreseeable future. It has a planned end, but we're really devoting ourselves to it. We're doing a ton of world-building here; creating viable heroes and villains to return to in the distant future.

As seen, Monkey Khan will be returning. Yes, I'm taking a gamble in bringing back one of the least favorite characters, but I made it my mission to flesh him out and make him - if not likable - then respectable.

Folks have been puzzling over how the Iron King / Iron Queen / Snively dynamic is going to work. Rest assured that it will be spelled out clearly and quickly.

Who is "Coolie-Hat-Maybe-Rabbit-Lynx Girl?" Some folks are already pretty close. She ties directly into the the meaning behind "Bride of Four Houses" and will prove to be a pivotal character in a pre-established character's life.

By the end of "The Iron Dominion," we'll have a much clearer idea on what the Dragon Kingdom is and how its societies are laid out.

When you look at the top tier villains - Robotnik, Mogul, Finitevus, Naugus - you'll note a serious lack of female persuasion. Just like I'm making Monkey Khan a viable hero, this arc is set to make Iron Queen a viable villain. By the end of this, I want her to be considered on the same level as the "big boys."

NINJAS! Everyone likes ninjas, right?

We haven't seen the last of the good doctor. There will be a story that makes Sonic face what he's created. It'll be a surprisingly light-hearted encounter on the surface (remember: kids' book), but I think you guys will be able to see the subtle, richer subtext. You'll see.

And while you guys can usually brainstorm a lot of my thinking - which is no fair, y'all outnumber me - I really think there will be some reveals and happenings that will catch you off-guard.

As for Sonic Universe . . . it's hard not to give everything away. So I'll just toss some points at you and let you muse over them:
- new character is coming unrelated to "The Iron Dominion"
- partial origin story for someone close to Knuckles
- the return of a Freedom Fighter group
- a duel that's been a long time in coming

I think that's enough to stoke the fires for the year. Enjoy!