A bonus chapter, you say? What? Why?
Here’s how this came about. While reading a multitude of fan reviews of Goliath, the last book in the Leviathan trilogy, I noted a common theme. Many of you felt as though there was just one more illustration you wanted to see.
After all, we’ve all spent a quarter-million words and 160 illustrations with the crew of the Leviathan. Letting go isn’t easy. So I thought it would be fun to commission one last piece of art from Keith, as a sort of Hanukwanzamas present to you all.
Yes, The Manual of Aeronautics comes out next year (August 21), full of deck plans, cutaways, beasties, uniforms, etc. But that’s not the same as the characters doing stuff.
Of course, what image Keith should draw was a matter of debate. Deryn at last wearing a dress? A close-up version of the final kiss? Bovril doing pretty much anything?
So I decided to hold a vote, here on this post called “One Last Piece of Art”, and there was much enthusiasm. A bit more than 1200 comments’ worth of enthusiasm, in fact.
I have read your comments and run them through a complex algorithm, and Keith came up with a wonderful piece of bonus art. And yet this still didn’t seem like enough to repay all your enthusiasm for the series. On top of that, Keith’s new illustration was quite evocative, and made me wonder exactly what was going on.
So I decided to write a piece of fan fiction to go with it. This turned out to be more than 3,000 words, longer than most of the chapters in the series, because writing those characters again was a total blast. I’d almost forgotten!
I am sorry to say, though, that this chapter and Keith’s piece are bumping Fan Art Friday till next week. But there’s some really awesome fan art (by real fans!) coming up then. And early next week, I’ll be posting the winners of the concluded Show Us Your Steampunk contest that’s been happening over on FaceBook.
But for now, at long last, here is the secret last chapter of Goliath. (Well, it’s really more fan fic than a long-lost chapter. It’s full of fan service and cross-dressing and all sorts of shippy stuff. And yet: By my authorial authority, I DECLARE IT CANONICAL.)
One piece of advice, don’t look at Keith’s lovely illustration until you get to the end. IT HAZ SPOILERS! So I hid the image way down there below the text.
Enjoy.
“This is a preposterous situation,” Alek said.
“One for which you have only yourself to blame.” Count Volger reclined on the hotel room’s purple velvet divan, a smirk on his face. “I told you not to take that wager.”
“It was a matter of principle.”
“Ah, young prince—or ‘Mr. Hohenberg,’ if you insist—will you never learn that there are no principles when it comes to a show of arms? Only brute strength.”
Alek turned from the mirror to give the wildcount a cool glance. “A show of arms? Very droll.” He sighed. “But I really didn’t think she would best me.”
“Miss Sharp did spend several months climbing about the on ratlines. It does wonders for the muscles, I’m sure.”
Alek nodded, rubbing his still sore right bicep. It certainly had been a battle. A show of arms, indeed! One moment, he and Deryn had been having a perfectly reasonable discussion on the merits of the two sexes—strength, endurance, tolerance of pain—and then suddenly he had said something unforgivable and Deryn was challenging him to an arm-wrestling contest.
Losing to her wouldn’t have been so bad—she was Deryn Sharp, after all—but Alek had gone and made this idiotic wager.
If only this New Year’s Eve party hadn’t been fancy dress. What was it with the British and their love of costumes? The entire staff of the London Zoological Society has been buzzing for days about what they would wear. Most were going as beasties, of course, or great boffins of history, or modern-day buffoons such as politicians and clerics of the Monkey Luddite stripe. Others were sticking with classical costumes: angels, devils, ancient Greeks, or fairies of the wood.
New as they were to the Society, both he and Deryn had been anxious as to what they should wear. (And to Alek, frankly, the whole fancy dress thing seemed a bit common, even if he had foresworn his royal heritage.) So an arm-wrestling contest had seemed like a brilliant way to settle the matter for at least one of them. As Volger kept reminding him, the terms had been entirely Alek’s idea.
It might’ve been most amusing, if only he hadn’t lost. Then it would have been Deryn wearing a dress and not he. He had to admit, much of the motivation for his rash wager had been his own curiosity. What would Deryn look like in the proper clothing of her own gender?
Not that he minded seeing her in a jacket and trousers every day. It was part of the frisson of their romance, that he knew something about her that only a handful of others did. But still, he was as curious as any boy would be in these circumstances.
“Is this bustle in the right place?” he asked.
Count Volger snorted a little. “There’s only one place for a bustle, Alek. And that’s it.”
“Doesn’t it seem . . . unnecessarily large to you?”
“A question women have been asking for decades, I’m sure.”
“Don’t be impertinent, Count. I meant the bustle.” Alek straightened the bows that positively covered the dress. “And I wouldn’t be so ready to mock others if I were dressed up as a message lizard!”
Count Volger regarded the papier-mâché lizard snout sitting next to him on the divan. Then with a shrug he lifted the mask and placed it on his head. It was painted a mottled brown with green highlights, matching the colors of an Air Service message lizard perfectly. The count’s face peeked out from between the jaws of the monstrous head-gear.
“One must always be ready to mock, Your No-Longer-Serene Highness.” Volger raised his glass, maneuvered it between the jaws, and took a sip. “Otherwise, politics becomes unbearable.”
Alek took a closer look at the wildcount. His cheeks were a little ruddy, and the champagne bottle beside the divan looked suspiciously depleted.
“Are you drunk, count?”
Volger laughed at this, then took another sip. “It is New Year’s Eve, Mr. Hohenberg, and in order to curry favor with the world’s most mysterious organization, I am costumed as the most disquieting creature in the history of fabrication. Given that I am about to throw myself into a party full of boffins and secret agents, I would not call myself drunk—merely fortified.”
“Indeed.” Alek turned back to the mirror, wondering how much more fortified Count Volger was planning on getting tonight.
Ever since Alek had joined the Zoological Society, the wildcount hadn’t known what to do with himself. The war was winding down, the Kaiser realizing that his enemies were too numerous now that the US had joined in. There was talk of a peace conference in the early months of 1915, one that would end the battle between Darwinism and Clankers forever, or at least reduce it from a world-wide bloodbath to a healthy competition of technologies.
With no war to influence and no young prince to raise to the throne of Austria-Hungary, Volger’s two purposes in life had suddenly disappeared. The Austrians would remember that he had snatched away their young heir, so going home might be tricky, and Britain was too full of godless beasties for him to stay here.
And yet . . .
“Curry favor?” Alek asked, picking up the parasol that Deryn had picked out for him. It matched the color of the dress, at least. “Why do you care what the Zoologial Society thinks of you, given what you think of them?”
“I might have need for their expertise in the future.” The count sounded quite sober now. “I have a great love of nature, you know, and one day there will be a struggle between natural creatures and those fabrications who escape out into the wild. The Society may be able to help in that.”
Alek raised an eyebrow. He’d never thought of Volger as a preservationist, given that the man had shot at least two hundred stags with Alek’s father, the archduke. Of course, there had been vast tracks of wilderness in the heart of Europe back when Volger was a young man collecting hunting trophies. There was not so much wild left anymore.
“I’ve heard of that happening,” Alek said. “Parrot frogs running rampant in Australia and such, chattering in those funny accents. It does seem unsettling.”
“Not as unsettling as those heels,” Volger said, the seriousness of a moment before forgotten. “But a bet is a bet, Mr. Hohenberg.”
The New Year’s Eve party of the Zoological Society of London was downstairs from Alek’s room, in the main ballroom of the Savoy Hotel. Alek was surprised, and a bit alarmed, to see how many people were in attendance. He had assumed that the audience for his humiliation would be limited to members of the Society proper—a dozen boffins and perhaps twice that many animal trainers and handlers. But the great ballroom was nearly full, with the Society’s patrons, political supporters, and special agents like him and Deryn all in attendance, along with their spouses, guests, and various hangers-on.
“Oh dear,” Alek said.
“Indeed,” Volger muttered through the jaws of his lizard head. “Perhaps you should have worn a mask.”
“That would have been cheating.” Alek took a fortifying breath, shouldered his parasol as if it were a rifle, then headed down into the crowd.
He felt conspicuous and absurd, and wobbly on his heeled shoes, but somehow the entire room didn’t seem to be staring at him. In an odd way, his costume was relatively tame. There were too many elaborate fabricated creatures about for one young man in a dress to cause a stir. The Society’s aging director, Dr. Spencer, had an entire Huxley Ascender hovering above him, devised from some sort of painted mesh thrown over a cloud of toy balloons. The director nodded at Alek and Volger and started to come toward them, but then realized that his floating Huxley was caught on a chandelier. Several assistants rushed forward to help him disentangle the costume. Alek pulled the wildcount into a hasty retreat, just in case the balloons were full of hydrogen instead of helium.
He scanned the crowd for Deryn. It was best to get the revelation of his costume over with as quickly as possible. He wondered what she had chosen to wear, and hoped that it didn’t include a mask. The thought of her seeing him dressed this way was annoying enough, without her spying on him from across the room and giggling to herself.
“Alek?” came a voice from the crowd. “Good heavens, is that the count with you?”
Alek turned and bowed. “Good heavens, indeed, Dr. Barlow.”
The lady boffin was dressed as an avenging angel, with large feathered wings and a wooden sword painted sliver. She looked appropriately terrifying. Tazza, as always at her side, had a tin foil halo on his head.
Dr. Barlow eyed Alek up and down. “Perhaps a curtsey would have been more appropriate.”
“Alas, my dancing master was never so kind as to teach me how.”
“I’m sure Mr. Sharp could help.”
The loris on her shoulder, who was dressed as a cherub, chuckled and said, “Mister Sharp.”
Alek gave them both a hard look. Dr. Barlow was the only other member of the Zoological Society who knew Deryn’s secret. It seemed unwise of her to make light of it, however subtly, in a room crowded with their colleagues.
“I should think not,” Volger said. “Mr. Sharp is far too manly to know such things.”
Dr. Barlow’s eyes widened. “The lizard speaks!”
“The lizard only repeats what he is told,” Volger said, tapping his ear. He extended his hand. “Would you care to dance, doctor?”
“Of course. One so rarely has an opportunity to dance with a reptile.” She nodded at Alek. “Good evening, Mr. Hohenberg.”
The two swirled off toward the dance floor, Tazza padding behind them after Alek gave him a pat on the head.
Now, where was Deryn? She had always been early to any party back on the Leviathan. No doubt she was hidden behind a mask somewhere, watching Alek twirl his parasol and mince about in these heels.
As Alek scanned the crowd, a strange apparition appeared before him. It had a bird-like head, and a shaggy yellow pelt and huge, cat-like claws.
“Is that you, Dylan?” he asked.
“I am not a bellman,” the beaked head said in a familiar voice, then the clawed hands reached up and lifted the mask. “I am a mighty gryphon!”
Alek took an involuntary step back. Beneath the eagle head was Adela Rogers, the young American reporter who had joined the Leviathan‘s journey in California. But what was she doing in London, and what was any reporter doing at a private function of the Society? Especially one at which Alek happened to be wearing a dress.
At least she wasn’t one of those reporters who always carried a camera, like the insufferable Eddie Malone.
“I trust you recognize me now, Prince Aleksandar.”
“Indeed, Miss Rogers. Though I’m afraid I am no longer a prince.”
“Ah, of course. Mr. Hohenberg, isn’t it?”
“At your service.” Alek attempted a curtsy, but failed completely.
The reporter smiled. “Not much of a mister this evening, I see.”
Alak shrugged. “A fancy dress party has its share of indignities, I suppose. But now that I am no longer royalty, perhaps a bit of humility is in order.”
“Oh, I wouldn’t say that dress is humiliating, Mr. Hohenberg. On the contrary, it’s quite flattering.”
“Thank you.” Alek bowed this time. It felt more natural, even with a bustle as a conspicuous counterweight to the maneuver.
For a moment, he wondered at all the adjustments, small and large, that Deryn must have made in order to carry off her deception. The way she walked, talked, and stood, along with every social nuance, all of it had to be considered every second of every day. It was incredible to have succeeded at something so difficult, with only her brother Jaspert and her own observations of humanity to guide her.
Deryn was quite astounding, really, and entirely worth throwing away an empire for.
“But if I may ask a question.” Miss Rogers produced a notepad. “Who exactly are you meant to be?”
“Ah.” Alek swallowed. After the agony of his arm-wrestling defeat and amid all the palaver of finding a dress to wear, he had failed to take the question of his costume any further. He could hardly tell this reporter that he had lost a bet, and the thought that she would write in her newspaper that he had attended a party dressed simply as a woman was somehow unsettling.
He wracked his mind for an answer, and one came.
“I am dressed as one of the great Clanker boffins of the last century,” he said. “Ada, Countess of Lovelace.”
Miss Rogers looked perplexed for a moment. “I’m not sure I recall this countess. She was a Clanker boffin, you say? But the name sounds very English.”
“She was. And yet her work is at the core of every mechanical analytic engine. The balance system of my own Stormwalker, for example.” As he said the words, Alek’s hands clenched imaginary saunters. It really had been too long since he had piloted a walker. He hoped his and Deryn’s first mission for the Society was in a Clanker nation, where he might get a chance to.
“I see.” Miss Rogers’ pencil was scribbling. “Like you, she was able to cross battle lines. A subject of the queen, but a Clanker. A woman, but a scientist.”
Alek bowed, relieved to have stumbled upon so apt a choice. “Just as I was born a royal and a Clanker, and yet stand before you a common Darwinist.”
She smiled. “And a boy in a dress. I think I’m finally beginning to understand you, Mr. Hohenberg.”
“How do you mean?”
“Well, you must know that many are perplexed by your choice of employers.” She glanced about the room, at all the costumed beasts, grotesques, and monstrosities. “It seems an odd avocation to trade an empire for. In fact, that’s why I’m here in London. To do some follow up.”
Alek raised an eyebrow. “You mean, to spy on me.”
“You might say that,” Miss Rogers said with another smile. “It seems to me that something’s missing in the story of Prince Aleksandar of Hohenberg, who traded his crown for a post as a zookeeper. Surely there’s something you’re not telling us about the Society. Or perhaps about yourself?”
Alek shrugged, and twirled his parasol.
“I shall be watching you, Mr. Hohenberg.”
“It will be my pleasure to be watched, I’m sure,” Alek said, bowing again. “But if you will excuse me.”
He headed off into the crowd without waiting for an answer, because near the giant ice sculpture of Charles Darwin taming a lupine tigeresque, he had seen a blond head bobbing above the costumed masses. It was definitely Deryn, and she wasn’t wearing a mask.
Of course, Deryn wore a mask every day, her disguise as a boy a constant in her life. By all rights, she should be able to show up at a fancy dress party in nothing more than her usual trousers and jacket.
Of course, making a point of such behavior would somewhat spoil her secret.
Alek pushed his way through the crowd, setting aside a Spring-Heeled Jack and an iron-headed Ned Kelly, the famous Outback bandit. Deryn’s blond hair flashed ahead of him again, but she was moving away. Had she seen him coming and decided to lead him on a chase?
Finally, though, the crowd parted, and he came face to face with Deryn Sharp. Alek froze when he saw her costume, a look of astonishment spreading on his face.
“But I . . . ,” he sputtered. “You won the contest, not me.”
“Aye, of course I did.” She made a muscle with her bicep. “But we never said the winner couldn’t wear what they wanted. And we reckoned you’d feel less awkward if you weren’t the only lad in a frock.”
Alek looked her up and down. Deryn was in the sort of evening dress that fashionable young women-about-town wore, with a fringed back and a broad belt high on her waist. Long beaded necklaces were draped around her neck, tucked into her belt or hanging to her thighs. Perched on her head was a close-fitting hat, a long fabricated peacock feather jutting almost straight back from it.
Alek looked down at his own dress, so formal and old-fashioned with its fussy bows and bustle. He suddenly felt frumpy, whereas Deryn was positively stylish. Her short hair and slim figure, the core of her disguise as a midshipman, no longer looked masculine at all.
He wondered if there would ever come a time when women wore their hair so short. Surely such a thing would never happen, but he had to admit that it looked quite fetching.
Then he realized what Deryn had said. “‘We’?”
“Aye, both of us.” She snapped her fingers, and Bovril waddled out from beneath the ice sculpture table.
Alek’s eye widened further. The perspicacious loris was in costume as well, in a backless dress that looked distinctly French. Indeed, the creature resembled a tiny Pierrot doll.
Bovril looked up at Alek, then said with a giggle, “Lad in a dress.”
Deryn shook her head. “Frankly, Alek, I thought you’d come up with something a bit more up-to-date.”
“You chose the parasol.” Alek twirled it. “I had to find a dress that matched!”
“Aye, but you’re not as fetching as I expected.” She tsped a few times. “Still, it’s nice to see you in something besides yours old Clanker gear. You really should be dressing up in new clothes, now that you aren’t a barking prince.”
Alek raised an eyebrow. “You mean, you would have been happy with a new jacket? You might have said.”
“Aye. Anything that doesn’t look like an old cavalry uniform!”
Alek sighed. Since renouncing the throne, he had no money to speak of, only the small income the Society provided. He doubted his granduncle the Emperor would be sending him an allowance anytime soon. So all he had to wear were his Hapsburg Guard uniforms and the formal wear that Mr. Hearst had provided him. And, of course, a few things he’d bought in Istanbul, which were hardly suitable for London. The dress he had on now had been provided by a wife of one of the Society boffins, and not the youngest or most fashionable.
“I must say that you look stunning, though,” he offered with a bow.
“Aye. It’s not as bad as I remember, being stuffed into a dress.” Deryn extended her arm. “Shall we go?”
Alek knelt and snapped for Bovril, who leapt up into his grasp.
“Of course. But where?”
“There’s a wee changing room off to the side, where some of the boffins left their regular clothes. It’s locked up, but I’ve got the only key.” Deryn looked him up and down again. “And bottle of champagne, if you’re not too much a lady for a drink alone with a former sky sailor.”
“I assure you, Mr. Sharp,” Alek said. “I have no concerns about your intentions.”
“That’s good to hear, Mr. Hohenberg. For my intentions are clarity itself.” And then she was leading him away from the throng of monsters, beasts, and freaks, toward someplace private and safe. A place where it didn’t matter who was wearing what.
Bovril, riding on his shoulder, giggled one more time.
“Mister Hohenberg,” the creature said.
CLICK HERE for a bigger version!
Also, you can pre-order the first Uglies graphic novel, Shay’s Story, right now right here.
December 16th, 2011 09:20
NUMBER ONE!!!!! YES!!!!!!!!!!!!
December 16th, 2011 09:22
OMG SOOOOOO HAPPY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
December 16th, 2011 09:22
# 2 AND 3!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
December 16th, 2011 09:24
Yo Scott-la FAN ART FRIDAY CAN WAIT!!!!
December 16th, 2011 09:26
AUGHHHHHHH! YESSSSSSSSSSS!
December 16th, 2011 09:31
This is AMAZING. Thank you for the fanfic and the art!
December 16th, 2011 09:35
Hah!!!! A double deal!!!!!!!!!!!! We all win. See, cause Bovril, Alek, & Deryn are in dresses! And Deryn and Alek are kissing up close!
December 16th, 2011 09:35
“One day there will be a struggle between natural creatures and those fabrications who escape out into the wild.”
…
Next book? 8]
Also, this…
“Dr. Spencer, had an entire Huxley Ascender hovering above him, devised from some sort of painted mesh thrown over a cloud of toy balloons.”
Sounds familiar. XD
December 16th, 2011 09:36
Ouch, scott, ouch. Putting Adela here and not having Lilit show up? OUCH, MY HEART. I got so excited…
But lovely ‘fanfic’ and GORGEOUS art. Great job to both of you!
December 16th, 2011 09:36
OMG! THANK YOU! THANK YOU! <3 THANK YOU SCOTT. OMG. I FEEL LIKE CRYING!!! <3 *bows down*
December 16th, 2011 09:36
Haha! Great! I love it!
December 16th, 2011 09:36
Thank you so much Scott and Kieth! This makes me so happy!
December 16th, 2011 09:37
OH MY WORD!!!!!!!!!!!! THAT WAS WORTH REFRESHING THE HOMEPAGE FOR!!!!!!!!!!! AGAIN….. AND AGAIN!!!!!!!!!!!!! I just simply LOVE the unmistakable blush on Alek’s face!
*sighs* She was worth trading an empire for.
*sobs* Yes!!!!!!! Yes she is!!!!!!!!!!!!
December 16th, 2011 09:37
This picture and author-fic ROCKS THE HOUSE!!!!!!!!!! Scott-la YOU ARE THE BEST AND MOST AWESOME AUTHOR EVER!!!!!! And you totally pay attention to your fans which RULES EVEN MORE!
December 16th, 2011 09:37
Sorry! Comment 13 was from me, Rachel! Not Sarah! Sorry. But we feel the same way.
December 16th, 2011 09:38
December 16th, 2011 09:39
Hahahahaha! That was awesome! Thank you for the Christmas present, Keith and Scott! *champagne all around!*
p.s. isn’t he ALEKSANDAR, though?
December 16th, 2011 09:40
@Sarah I know right!!! *weeps into hands* they are SOOO cute together!
December 16th, 2011 09:41
HAHAHAHA OMG WHY
Oh gosh, I love these two.
December 16th, 2011 09:41
AHAHAHAHAH THIS IS GREAT THANK YOU SO MUCH!!
December 16th, 2011 09:41
oh sorry Rachel (you posted it while i was typing) you rule I WANT TO BE YOUR FRIEND!
December 16th, 2011 09:42
It’s just so perfectly adorable.
December 16th, 2011 09:42
@ Sirius Black (formerly Ruth) 18- It’s okay to cry. * pats you on the back * They’ll always be in our hearts and our minds.
December 16th, 2011 09:43
@Scott-la, you should seriously look in to applieing for the job of Santa Clause, you know just what makes my uber HAPPY!!! *wipes tear from cheek* that fan-fic was BEAUTIFUL!
December 16th, 2011 09:44
@Rachel-23Thank you, thank you…
December 16th, 2011 09:44
More, more, more. Yes, Mr. Westerfeld. We may be a bottomless pit of want, and we will never be satisfied, but it’s for a good cause!
December 16th, 2011 09:46
SO. MUCH. LOVE.
December 16th, 2011 09:46
@Myself-25 i meant you know what makes ME uber happy
December 16th, 2011 09:46
hahahahaha!!!!!!!!! luv it
December 16th, 2011 09:47
My sister and I stayed up til MIDNIGHT refreshing this page! AHHH! It was worth it.
December 16th, 2011 09:47
In response to Rachel YES YES MORE!!! MORE… *trails off* keep filling our bottomless pit of want!!!
December 16th, 2011 09:49
Fantastic! Thank you so much! This made my day! I love these characters so much!
December 16th, 2011 09:49
(Yes it is really me, Sarah.) I will sleep happily tonight, having dreams of crossdressing-crossdressers.
December 16th, 2011 09:49
@Scott-la, please go on tour again! I missed the last one!
December 16th, 2011 09:49
SO GOOD. thanks for everything!
December 16th, 2011 09:50
Deryn looks soooo pretty but Alek just looks….uh….interesting???
December 16th, 2011 09:51
@Rachel-30 Luckily in my time zone its only 9:20!
December 16th, 2011 09:52
@Libby-36, I completely agree
December 16th, 2011 09:52
Deryn- wine glass, kissy faces, fancy hat= heh heh. VARLOW LOVE FOREVER!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
December 16th, 2011 09:54
@Rachel-39, yes, yes Varlow and Dalek you will be in my heart always…
December 16th, 2011 09:54
That fanfic is so funny! I love it. Alek does look a bit awkward though… Hee hee! Its great to have another little leviathan story. And great picture too. A bit of everything: close up kiss, Bovril being funny, Alek AND Deryn in a dress, a bit of romance, a bit of Varlow, something for everybody
December 16th, 2011 09:56
@ 41- Except Newkirk! But I can live with that, since I am feeling bubbly (heh heh. Get it? BUBBLY?) with happiness over DALEK fluffiness!
December 16th, 2011 09:56
I have to go to bed now *sobs uncontrollably* and i can’t take my computer (to dwell forever on the shear Dalekness of it all)!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
December 16th, 2011 09:56
loved it!!! ^^ was funny =) least we get to see all =)
December 16th, 2011 09:57
@Meihan, all except Lilit *frowns*…
December 16th, 2011 10:00
That (relatively) small piece of author-fic was SOO worth the countless punches from my sister because i kept interrupting her game to check this SUPER AWESOME BLOG!
December 16th, 2011 10:00
Mr. Westerfeld, aren’t overcome with JOY and HAPPINESS of fulfilling many a fan’s dreams???? THANK YOU!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Now all we need is a companion novel. Does this authorfic inspire you to write more? PLEASE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Secret spy missions would be AMAZING!!!!!!!!!!!!! Adela will find out, sooner or later. It is just a matter of time.
December 16th, 2011 10:01
Yes. Just…yes. Every type of yes imaginable. There are not enough words to properly express my approval.
Except maybe admitting that I squealed. Loudly.
December 16th, 2011 10:03
@Rachel-47, TOTALLY! And yes, the inert reporter in me is itching to ask the question that is on all of our minds; What does it feel like to bring Christmas early to all these ecstatic fans?
December 16th, 2011 10:04
That question was meant for Mr. Westerfeld, BTW
December 16th, 2011 10:05
@ 49- But WHEN she finds out, the question is, WHAT will she do????? * questionably looks at Mr. Westerfeld for answers *
December 16th, 2011 10:06
My parents are all like ” Well its good to see you interested in something” at this point I roll my eyes ” just don’t get to obsessed with it, alright?” and I am saying to myself, too late!
December 16th, 2011 10:07
@ 52- Barking spiders! That’s EXACTLY what happens to me!
December 16th, 2011 10:08
@51 *all heads in the room turn to the mysterious Mr. Westerfeld*
December 16th, 2011 10:08
@53 WOW *widens eyes* cool
December 16th, 2011 10:09
YAY! It’s finally up!
I thought it was fantastic, and I loved the Varlow… and everything else. Volger as a message lizard, haha
I am really loving the Art Deco background on Keith’s picture though–it’s awesome.
December 16th, 2011 10:11
OI! Everyone who is closely following this comment thread; What day is is where you are?
December 16th, 2011 10:15
MADE MY LIFE MADE MY LIFE MADE MY LIFE
Hahah, I literally pushed back from my desk doing the touchdown hand signal mouthing “DERYN IN A DRESS!” (if it wasn’t nearly 1AM I would have shouted it). That made me giggle more than Alek in a dress. And the illustration! It’s so gorgeous!
I just can’t stop grinning at how awesome this is, I really can’t! Thank you guys so much!
December 16th, 2011 10:17
Oh my word! That could NOT have been more brilliant.
A drunken Volger! Yes please~!
December 16th, 2011 10:18
I just looked up what a bustle is “‘Is this bustle in the right place?’ he asked.” and i am almost cracking up (almost because my mom would kill me if i cracked up loud enough for my sis to wake up)
December 16th, 2011 10:19
It is almost 1 am, here, too. Thank you, Mr. Westerfeld. For keeping the dream alive!
December 16th, 2011 10:21
I love how awkward Alek looks compared to how graceful Deryn looks. BTW that was NOT a diss on Alek, Alek rules almost as much as the highly creative mind that thought him up.
December 16th, 2011 10:21
Indeed!
So at first I was like, really Alek in a dress?
But you totally went with the combo AND crammed another historical reference (Ada Lovelace! Throughout the whole series I’ve been going when the reference to Ada going to pop up?)
So happy!
It’s so early in the morning. But I totally got my closure. Mucho Gracias, Scott and Keith. Well done.
December 16th, 2011 10:23
@61, yes thank you Mr. Westerfeld… *chocks slightly at the pure beauty of the thing
December 16th, 2011 10:26
I have to go to bed now.. *chocks back a sob* I will see you tomorrow, my beautiful piece of author-fic…
December 16th, 2011 10:27
*continues weeping at the fact that she must be content with tearing her fingers off the keyboard and going to read Goliath. Again.*
December 16th, 2011 10:29
And when i said i was weeping i really meant it
December 16th, 2011 10:29
Ok now i will really go…
December 16th, 2011 10:42
Other than the fact that I chewed my lip something awful reading that (your stories have a tendency to make me do that), it was far too fantastically fantastic to believe! Thank you!
December 16th, 2011 10:43
Thank you!
Love it.
December 16th, 2011 10:44
Wow, this was a great thing to find at 1:00am, but completely worth it!!!!!
First of all, you still rock harder than any other author out there because you listen to your fans and give us what we want!!!!!! Everyone won and got something from the picture no matter what they voted for, Keith’s art is always great…AND….we got a bonus fanfic from the actual author!!!! This is amazing, such a treat to get a non-canon (but still kind of in the canon mindset) post-Goliath story.
All turnouts of the characters are wonderful–as usual–and I love all the little hints you dropped about the Zoological society, because the book left it so ambiguous. I’m writing my own fanfic about post-Goliath stuff, but it’s obviously not the same as reading something from the actual author. I know any continuation of the novel series is kind of out right now (you’re busy with other projects, etc.), but it would be great to have these little fanfics pop up every once in a while, because this was certainly a treat, and it seems Deryn and Alek are still up for plenty of adventures in the near future (and plenty of “special times” in closets).
Eh hem, well excuse me while I go read Leviathan through Goliath now.
And, of course, thank you tons for creating this fanfic, thinking of the art, and creating the Leviathan world and characters in general, you’re beyond awesome! (and definately on my list of “inspirations” for my own stories).
Your fan for life (yes, life), BlackRose108
December 16th, 2011 11:12
aww so cute!! Only you could write such excellent fan fiction Mr Westerfeld
THANK YOU KEITH!!! your art is amazing!!
Parrot frogs running rampant in Australia , FTW!!!
December 16th, 2011 11:13
Props for bringing up Ada Lovelace. She’s the BEST.
December 16th, 2011 11:37
Thank you for another cliff hanger, Mr. Westerfeld. Thank you for discontinuing the best thing that’s ever happened to me! I can’t help but smile everytime I think of your authorfiction, but IS IT REALLY THE LAST STORY OF OUR BELOVED CHARACTERS? PLEASE DON’T MAKE IT THE LAST!!!! And that is my Plead of the Day. Thank you, and good night.
December 16th, 2011 11:43
I don’t understand how you can be such an awesome person Scott-la. You are just…. awesome. Kieth’s illustration and your fanfic was so delicious I was going to cry.
WE LOVE YOU.
December 16th, 2011 11:45
I shall go to a happy place, think about Deryn and Alek, and cry some more.
December 16th, 2011 12:01
Shaking the entire story, screamed with fangirl joy when I saw the picture. I will print this uber huge and put it on my wall next to my bed. Putting it as thd PSP wallpaper. Scott-la, this is why you are my favorite/THE BEST author ever.
December 16th, 2011 12:02
AND IT’S CANON!
Both amazing and awesome, I’ve never felt so honored to be a Leviathan fangirl. Thank you for the Easter Egg!
December 16th, 2011 12:15
But, but…..now I want to know more! I want to know if Volger stays sane with his new job or if he goes batty. I want to know if Alek and Deryn get married and have kids and what their names are. I want to know if Barlow and Volger get married (and have and kids.)
I want to know so bad!!!
December 16th, 2011 12:19
So wait? Is she Dylan Sharp in a dress? Or just showing up to the party? Because maybe she could just blend in as some random girl, but if she going around as Mr. Sharp isn’t it rather obvious? #boobs
December 16th, 2011 12:22
I love it. I LOVE IT! haha
I still think you should write about their adventures in the Society…but anyway great illustration and awesome secret chapter/authorfic
December 16th, 2011 12:56
Drunk volger!! Hee hee!
December 16th, 2011 12:57
Drunk volger!! Lol
December 16th, 2011 12:57
Sorry sorta repeated myself…
December 16th, 2011 13:03
A sticky situation! I lent Goliath to a friend of mine ( who is also a relative of mine and a boy) and he forgot to give it back and now schools over so he can’t! If mum and dad notice its missing therell be some awkward explaining to do … Hope he posts it soon or something :/
December 16th, 2011 13:07
Hm, is no one else there blond? And YESSSS; all 4 in one. ;D
Anyways, thank you Scott and Keith for coming up with one last piece of writing and art, respectively!! Scott, you have yet to cease to amaze me with your awesomesaustasticness!! Seriously, what kind of professional author spends this much time to interact this much with fans, take a look at fanart and fanfiction, read manga/watch anime, and even write a ‘fanfiction’ for his own series?!!
Who’s awesome? You’re awesome! >:D
December 16th, 2011 13:08
I can’t even tgegyvb[;90uyg[097ybp[,Fyb9hkvbhfbsadhccbvjnvcjdh this is so wonderful!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
December 16th, 2011 13:27
THIS IS SO GREAT!!! IM GONNA DIE!! I DON’T EVEN…..WEIFWRFI;NBEQG;JNREGOERJGOEQJIJWOJEIF;OINE;FVNEA;U
December 16th, 2011 13:51
Have I mentioned how much I love this?
December 16th, 2011 15:02
Mm. Sexy ladies. Ha.
This was excellent. Thanks for being a good sport for your fans.
December 16th, 2011 15:59
Oh I love this. So much. It also gave a few more ideas for the Christmas contest at one of your fanclubs on deviantART.com…hahaha!
Also, you are one awesome author. Most authors probably wouldn’t do that (that is, write a fanfic for their own story involving ‘lads in a dress’) but you did! And Keith illustrated it! I am so unbelievably happy right now.
And did anyone else catch the Varlow?
December 16th, 2011 16:22
I feel like the parrot frog is a thinly veiled metaphor for cane toads.
I hate cane toads.
December 16th, 2011 16:47
Deryn in a dress! DERYN IN A DRESS!!!! Yaaaaaaaaaaaay!!!!!!!!!!!!!
December 16th, 2011 16:48
Ada Lovelace? I SAW WHAT YOU DID THERE, SCOTT.
And also Spring Heeled Jack? I love that guy. And drunk Volger? YESSSSSSSSSSS
December 16th, 2011 16:49
It took me a while to build up the courage to look at the picture. The snort I let out when I did was rather unflattering. Note to self: refrain for viewing hilarious images in the school computer room.
THANK-YOU SCOTT! THANK-YOU KEITH!!!! Couldn’t be happier
… and now the wait for August 21.
December 16th, 2011 16:57
I LOVED THIS ONE BUT PLEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEZE DO ANOTHER ONE MORE MORE MORE MOOOORE!!!!!!!
i know you love writing these, so just do it again DO IT!!!!
December 16th, 2011 16:57
I LOVED THIS ONE BUT PLEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEZE DO ANOTHER ONE MORE MORE MORE MOOOORE!!!!!!!
MORE ALEK AND DERYN!!!!!!!!
December 16th, 2011 16:59
I SQUEALED SO MUCH!! VOLGER WAS DRUNK! ALEK, DERYN, AND BOVRIL WERE IN A DRESS! THERE WAS VARLOW! THE ART WAS PERFECT!!!!
THANK YOU!!!! *glomps Scott and Keith and noms on their heads*
December 16th, 2011 17:36
OMBS!!! I would have been screaming but my sister was there glaring at me for not getting ready for school. Now she’s telling my we need to leave…goodbye!!! I shall sqeal more later… EEP!
December 16th, 2011 17:50
@ tridecagirl – I know! I totally smiled when I saw that. It fit in perfectly with the Leviathan universe and didn’t feel forced, but it was also a nice nod to those who have read Midnighters as well. Plus, I think Ada Lovelace is awesome.
December 16th, 2011 18:00
thank you!
December 16th, 2011 18:01
Volger dressed as a message lizard? XD I want to see that picture! Please Scott-La and Keith-La, make another one with volger’s lizard costume!
I loved it so much! Deryn, Alek, and Bovril all wearing dresses together. That’s amazing!
December 16th, 2011 18:03
Mr. Westerfeld,
Seriously, you are such an inspiration. Not only do you write awesome, creative novels with lovable and original characters, I love how you relate to your fans. I love that you actively take part in the fandom and listen to what your fans have to say. If I ever become a published author someday, and if by some miracle my books ever get fans, you will be my role model for how to act.
It was already so sweet of you to arrange for Mr. Thompson to draw an extra piece of art for us, and now you wrote a story to go with it as well! It really is the best present you could have given your fans, and I love how much thought you obviously put into it to make sure that everyone would be happy, and also to make the story in-character and plausible. Despite how far-fetched the premise is, it didn’t feel out-of-character or forced at all, which is impressive. I never could have thought of a situation where Alek would wear a dress, yet you made it believable.
As for the art, Mr. Thompson if you are reading this, it is absolutely gorgeous! I love all the period-accurate details you put into those clothes. Deryn looks absolutely amazing! I love that the dress isn’t too frilly and suits her personality. Alek looks awkward, which of course he should. And his blush is too cute!
December 16th, 2011 18:10
Oh, Alex, you complete and total dummkopf. *headdesk*
December 16th, 2011 18:27
Pure dead brillance! I love it soooo much! Thanks!!!!
December 16th, 2011 18:29
Dear Scott,
I noticed how much fun you had writing about Dalek again, and as a Hannakwanzamas present to you, I and all the other fans will allow you to write a companion series. We just want you to be happy. Your welcome.
-With a squeal of joy, Melissa
December 16th, 2011 18:55
By jove you’re fan fiction is amazing!
PLEASE TEACH ME YOUR WAYS!!!
December 16th, 2011 18:56
I do believe there were more spoilers in that fanfic than someone who hasn’t read Goliath yet should have read. (Christmas can’t come soon enough!!!) But I still loved it! I’m going to miss Keith’s art.
December 16th, 2011 19:19
@Miss Lissa: Bwahahaha. *resumes serious face*
Yes, Mr. Westerfeld, we will allow it.
December 16th, 2011 19:22
FINALLY!!! well played with the whole both of them in dresses at a party thing. I JUST LOVE HOW DERYNS ALL SEXY ANS ALEKS ALL….OLD LADY but its a cute look for him.
December 16th, 2011 19:27
Awesomeness at its finest. I had a feeling all of the choices would be done! The art and the piece to go with it! This has so much win! (plus it’s canon! Think of ALL the fanfiction to be made after that event!)
December 16th, 2011 19:36
How appropriate, to have Deryn dressed up in nearly flapper attire. A testament to the impending changing times, and a lovely way to maintain Deryn’s independent air while granting her femininity. And countering this with Alek’s almost overly effeminate and old-fashioned Victorian-esque presence and making a little (perhaps, but dubiously unintentional) commentary on the two sides that emerge over the issue of gender roles in the twenties…a subject that both Alek and Deryn shall certainly address in their future… Well done in deed, satisfying all parties. Well, save for those Lilit fans.
Also, kawaii!!!!!!!!!
X3
December 16th, 2011 19:47
Haha that was fantastic xD. Thank-you!
December 16th, 2011 19:56
its even better when you read it a second time.
December 16th, 2011 20:09
Ahh soo Awesome!! Thankyou so much scott, you have succeeded in filling our dreams. . well, most of them.
Hmm now if only we could have a companion nove. . . then everything would be rosy and perfect
*hint hint
December 16th, 2011 20:34
Oh. My. God.
THAT COMBINES IT ALL!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Deryn in a dress, Alek in a dress, BOVRIL IN A DRESS!!!!!
KISSING!!!!
Plus a not-so-fanfic!!!!
I honestly feel like screaming in joy:)
December 16th, 2011 20:39
@Scott-la. Really, it’s okay if you write a companion series. We won’t complain. Please understand that we only want to make you happy, and I hope that by writing the authorfic you realized how worthy these characters are of another series. Pull a John Flanagan and write 11 books and then go for a companion series! You know you want to…
December 16th, 2011 20:54
Huh. I seem to be in the minority here. Because I think that Alek actually looks quite fetching in a dress- really, the bustle is a little silly, but overall it’s quite flattering.
But Deryn just looks wrong. WRONG I SAY.
(Bovril, naturally, outstrips them all in fabulousness though, so it’s a moot point.)
Alek shouldn’t be so complainy. At least in heels he’s nearly as tall as Deryn.
Thank you, Scott and Keith!
December 16th, 2011 21:45
@Angie-80, I thought that to, I mean if no one but Varlow and Dalek know then why is she dressed like that?
December 16th, 2011 21:49
Well this is perfection.
December 16th, 2011 21:50
@Miss Lissa-106, Yes Mr. Westerfeld that would be alright with me.
December 16th, 2011 21:56
@Lue- Alrighty then. I suppose one COULD interpret Alek to be… what did you say… ah yes,”quite fetching in a dress”. Dispite the fact that he has no figure to speak of and that he is looking fairly gender-confused…
December 16th, 2011 22:00
Awesome. I super love this. Thank you for a most excellent holiday present.
December 16th, 2011 22:09
@Scott-la, You are such a great author I love how you managed to have Volger as a message lizard and Dalek AND Bovirl in dresses *sighs* so good…
December 16th, 2011 22:14
@Lou – While of course part of the issue is that Deryn is, y’know, a girl, and thus looks more normal in a dress even if they’re not her usual attire, I think the bigger thing going on here is confidence.
Deryn looks comfortable and confident in her dress. Alek is, as they say, letting the dress wear him instead of wearing the dress. Therefore, Deryn looks better in her dress than Alek does in his.
Plus, Deryn’s dress is legitimately nicer than Alek’s
December 16th, 2011 22:34
The picture and story….both amazing. But it’s not fair. You’ve given us a taste of the Zoological Society and now I’m hooked! I can’t help but want more!
December 16th, 2011 23:42
This is awesome. I had to admit I was a little skeptical at first with Alek being in a dress and all. But I will admit that I enjoyed this. The best part was, “Doesn’t it seem . . . unnecessarily large to you?” And Volger has to drink in order to deal with London society, LOL. Volger drunk and dressed as a lizard? So awesome. That’s one BA lizard!
December 16th, 2011 23:57
*turns into France from Hetalia* it’s me again!! I just read the last, like, paragraph and I just realized they’re all alone in a locked room~! OHOHOhOhOHOOHOOO SCOTT!!! YOU MAKE US FANS PROUD.
December 17th, 2011 00:04
It definitely seemed to get a bit lemony at the end. Something tells me that after entering the closet, neither of them would be wearing dresses for long. In fact, it was heavily implied.
December 17th, 2011 00:08
a toast a toast to alex in a dress hahahahahahaaha brillant scot plain brillance
December 17th, 2011 00:13
I was extremely anti-Alek-dress during the vote, and I did facepalm about a dozen times during the chapter. But it was really funny and good actually. I’m so glad you gave us more closure, especially on Volger, which I’m most thankful for. I really don’t know what to assume about the ending though… The picture was different, I think Deryn looks stranger than Alek! Also, what is design in the background supposed to be?
Anyways, thanks for doing this and making people’s dreams come true!
December 17th, 2011 00:14
I love how Deryn has to bend down to kiss him xD Brilliant drawing and awesome long-lost-fanfic Scott-la!:D
December 17th, 2011 00:19
I like how Bovril looks like a shocked proper lady at the bottom.
December 17th, 2011 00:21
I see what you did there
you combined them all!
That was a beautiful chapter, and very VERY satisfying. Heehee. But Alek really IS hilarious, Deryn is beautiful/hot as ever, and I still will always love Bovril. And yay for the kiss! 
December 17th, 2011 00:32
@luanna-125, If i had thought about it for a while i would have come to same conclusion as you did.
December 17th, 2011 00:38
TEARS. WEEPING. WEEPING. TEARS. guys!!!!!! ITS OVER!!!!!!!!! THIS WAS OUR LAST PIECE OF DALEK!!!! seriously this is really sad. IT WAS WONDERFUL TO SEE EVERYONE IN A DRESS THOUGH!!!!!! but i still feel like i did when i read the last page of Goliath.
December 17th, 2011 00:41
I need to pick my jaw up from the floor… AWESOME!
Lilit: So what were you saying about crossdressing, Alek?
Alek: Shuddup!
Bovril: *Giggles* MISS Ferdinand!
December 17th, 2011 00:45
There are no words to describe how amazing this is. Really, this is perfection. Thank you Scott, thank you sooooo much.
December 17th, 2011 01:05
@selin-136 “How do you know!?!?!?” She cried indignently
December 17th, 2011 01:12
Hmmm… All of them at once. Sketchy, but awesome! (P.S. great chapter! i know Volger and Dr Barlow were also in love!)
December 17th, 2011 01:13
This is awesome. I had to admit I was a little skeptical at first with Alek being in a dress and all. But I will admit that I enjoyed this. The best part was, “Doesn’t it seem . . . unnecessarily large to you?” And Volger has to drink in order to deal with London society, LOL. Volger drunk and dressed as a lizard? So awesome. That’s one BA lizard!
December 17th, 2011 01:33
Mrs Westerfeld, you are my favorite, end of discussion. <3 ALSO VOLGER AS A LIZARD HAS MADE MY LIFE MMMKAY
December 17th, 2011 01:55
All of the above it was! Haha, and I like Varlow for the fans. We’ll pretend she isn’t married.
One of the most awkward, yet amazing, kisses ever!
Deryn has a chest… xD I bet she is secretly happy.
December 17th, 2011 02:09
What about Varlow or Bolger? Or Dalek or Aryn? I like giving celebrity names to fave characters. They’re like celebrities to me.
Speaking of celebrities, what about a Leviathan Movie? Movie producers would be daft bum-rags if they didn’t do one. Still, like harry Potter, the books would be WAY better than the movies.
December 17th, 2011 02:10
Volger wears an ironic costume.
December 17th, 2011 02:10
“Jaded, heh”
December 17th, 2011 02:10
December 17th, 2011 02:11
This loris is perspicacious.
December 17th, 2011 02:11
This loris is perspicacious.
December 17th, 2011 02:12
This loris is perspicacious.
December 17th, 2011 02:12
This loris is perspicacious.
December 17th, 2011 02:12
bla bla bla.
December 17th, 2011 02:12
I like commenting.
December 17th, 2011 02:15
JUST.PLAIN.AWESOME!!!!
now write a companion novel, scott. *hinthint*;)
December 17th, 2011 02:16
but sad that alek gave up the throne.
December 17th, 2011 02:21
Lol, thanks Scott! I love it! Now I will leave to print it out and file it with the rest.
December 17th, 2011 02:30
AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! OMG its amazing!!!!
December 17th, 2011 02:58
the minute i got up i took a shower right away so i could see if you posted AND YOU DID!!! my mom was super annoyed cuz i missed the bus reading so she had to drive me. i was late to fist period BUAT IT WAS WORTH IT!!!!! of course, i got bored in biology and drew my own version of Deryn wearing the same dress kissing ALek(only this time he was wearing a new jacket, not a dress) i may or may not send it in. depends on how well i ink and color it.@ everyone i agree. this was so. totally. worth it.
December 17th, 2011 02:58
like… Like… LOVE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! EEP!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Sorry to the fangirl squee, but I love this!!! SO CUTE!!!!
December 17th, 2011 02:59
I can not believe my mom didn’t let me stay up to midnight and refused to let me read before school, then gave me a list of things to do after school! This was all awsome, even if Alek and Deryn are in dresses, which I don’t approve of outside of a crazy costume party where everyone is dressed crazily. This was completely awsome!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
December 17th, 2011 02:59
THIS IS SO AWESOME.
You are actually the best author ever.
I can’t stop smiling XDD
& I love the Midnighters reference. (:
December 17th, 2011 03:00
I had a feeling it would be a mixture of them all…….
I love it! And Alek, does look really good in that dress, I will admit…
December 17th, 2011 03:02
Now we just need a COMPANION NOVEL!!!!
Hey salt! Go TEAM IOWA!!!!!!!
December 17th, 2011 03:09
Scott-la, you are officially my favourite author. Rick Riordan’s got nothing on you. The chapter and the picture are so awesome, it’s the best Christmas present ever! ^o^
Hold on a sec, DERYN HAS BOOBS?!
December 17th, 2011 03:11
YAY!!!!
THAT IS AMAZING!!! 
December 17th, 2011 03:12
What are you smoking. She’s a girl, of course she does! Jeez!
December 17th, 2011 03:13
…who else thinks that Alan Cumming should read this aloud somewhere? xD
December 17th, 2011 03:22
Thank you, thank you for including all the options! Definitely what I wanted
We’re all winners! Although Alek in a dress is an image I’m not really sure I want to keep…And the fanfic was amazing, thank you Scott-la and Keith-la!
December 17th, 2011 03:52
I have been staring at this picture all day. Love it.
December 17th, 2011 03:52
Pure win.
Thank you Scott-la!
December 17th, 2011 03:54
Everybody wins! I really appreciate that you declared this canon. It’s a nice little tie up. Though those are the most natural looking boobs on a “costumed man” I’ve ever seen. I doubt anyone would be thinking Dylan stuffed tissues down his front.
December 17th, 2011 03:58
AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA
What cuties!! <3
December 17th, 2011 04:11
Scott and Keith, you are awesome.
December 17th, 2011 04:41
Even though it wasn’t what I voted for it was still really good… I couldn’t help, but laugh at Volger being a fabricated animal (when he hates them) and Alek aka Mr. (how do you spell it) in a dress… though it was embarassing, it was still pleasureful for those who don’t have to do it… hey I’m putting out a challenge to anyone “man enough” to put on an older (WW1 time) dress and send the pics to Scott… if I could find one I would so do it… so anyone “man enough” I triple dog dare you to!!!!!!!!!!
!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! THANK YOU SCOTT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
December 17th, 2011 04:44
It would be cool if we could get more than just an additional chapter… but I’m fine with this… I don’t want it to end!!!!!!!!!!
December 17th, 2011 04:54
I think…my soul just exploded. <3
December 17th, 2011 05:13
@PerspicaciousLoris-144, I agree except for the fact that Scott-la does not in any way compare to J.K. Rowling. Scott-la RULES!!! Whereas J.K. Rowling doesn’t care a lick about the very ones who BOUGHT HER A HOUSE!!!! HER FANS!!!!
@Sirena-164, and Climb-171, you would think Deryn would at least make and effort to hide her boobs! That or Alek would convincingly stuff some thing down his dress so Deryn wouldn’t be the only “boy” dressed up as a girl with BOOBS!
December 17th, 2011 05:17
This picture is just so insanely amazing! It’s perfect. I couldn’t think of anything better for the last piece of art. And not just art- WORDS :O
Oh, and I’m just going to assume that the Ada Lovelace thing was a Midnighters reference x]
December 17th, 2011 05:20
YESS!!!!!!
December 17th, 2011 05:26
lol all of them in dresses plus kiss. WIN
Extra chapter and bonus art needs to be in paperback version of Goliath.
NEEDS
December 17th, 2011 05:35
That’s it. You’re the best author ever. Hands down, no contest, not even up for debate, etc.
Mad props to Keith too! You guys should win prizes :B
Haha, I’m still chuckling to myself like a crazy person.. : D
December 17th, 2011 05:58
This will keep me laughing for weeks.
Thanks, Scott and Keith!
December 17th, 2011 06:07
You, sir… ROCK! Now if you could get Alan C. to record these sweet nothings for Hanukwanzamas… (only half kidding)
December 17th, 2011 06:23
Alright, the story is plausible. But does anyone see a scandal about the sexual orientation of the former heir to Austria in the near future? I wouldn’t put it past Miss Rogers. And while Deryn is symply stunning, Alek…well…its hard to look at him. Let’s say I like it with reservations.
December 17th, 2011 07:00
When you’ve got something like that, WHO CARES ABOUT FAN ART FRIDAY!!!! that was amazing, they are just like I remembered them, and I love how uncomfortable Alek looks in the picture.
So excited for the book!
December 17th, 2011 07:12
We will always want more Dalek!!!
Ideas for the next book?? (because you know the secret meaning of trilogy)
-Adela’s P.O.V. trying to find out the real reason why Alek threw away being the emporer
-“One day there will be a struggle between natural creatures and those fabrications who escape out into the wild.”
How about this??? Now that would be pretty cool
-Deryn finally revealing her secret to everyone. She seemed to be quite content in her dress
Or maybe all of them combined!!!!!
I think doing the same thing that you did with Uglies (3 books in the “real” trilogy, and then a companion book with someone else’s P.O.V. but still including the original characters) would be awesome!
December 17th, 2011 07:27
So, this is good. BUT now that my initial excitement has gone down a squick and I’m coming off the Dalek high. I sort of resent Alek being in a dress, but I think the Varlow bit makes up for it slightly. I think. Volger was my favorite part of this. However, now I want more Varlow.
December 17th, 2011 07:33
Dear Scott-la
OH MY GOD THIS HAS MADE MY LIFE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I can’t believe you managed everything in one picture. Alek AND Deryn in a dress, the kiss, and you even threw in Bovril because it’s awesome.
and the fanfiction! I didn’t expect that, and it may or may not have been the BEST THING EVER! (IT WAS)
I can’t wait to see what you’ll come up with next, but until then I can patiently wait/stare at the screen until you decide to let us, your adoring fans, know.
December 17th, 2011 07:54
WHOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!
OMG! OMG! FINALLY, THE ONE I AM WAITING FOR!! HOOOAAAHH! OH YEAH!! I ALWAYS WANTED TO SEE THEM KISS UP CLOSE!! WOOOOO!! MY NOSE IS BLEEEEDING!! I AM HAPPY! DERYN AND ALEK FOREVER!!!!!!!!!!!! WHOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!
December 17th, 2011 08:02
LOVE IT!!! Bovril’s so cute!!!!! <3
December 17th, 2011 08:04
THANK YOU SCOTT! THANK YOU!! EVEN THOUGH I AM NOT REALLY FINISH WITH BEHEMOTH (I read half) and Goliath (also half) THAAAAAANK YOU!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! WHOOOOOOOOOOOO!! I AM SATISFIED!!! OH YEAH! OH YEAH! YESSSS!! YEAH!! DERYN ROCKS!!!!
December 17th, 2011 08:26
YES.
This is just….YES. Reconcile the vote by including ALL THE THINGS.
Ah..the Ada Lovelace reference. There was a brief moment when I went, “Hey! Ada Lovelace! She was referenced in that Midnighters series!” and I um…didn’t mentally make the connection immediately that both series were written by the same man. *facepalm*
As always, that was brilliant. Author-fic FTW.
December 17th, 2011 08:45
THANK YOU FOR THE ADA LOVELACE REFERENCE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
December 17th, 2011 08:46
oh. my goodness. excuse me while i faint from amazingness-overload.
SCOTT-LA, THIS IS PERHAPS THE BEST EARLY HANUKWANZAMAS PRESENT YOU COULD POSSIBLY GIVE US.
-Lizzy-wa OUT!
December 17th, 2011 08:47
Aside from that, you’ve outdone youself Scottsters (well so has Keith <3 ) this is sort of what I've been looking forward to all week- and it definately made Finals a bit funner.
I wish I knew that it was THIS easy to convince you to do things like this :3
December 17th, 2011 08:48
and was it just me, or did I get the sense that Adela thinks Alek might be gay?!
December 17th, 2011 09:00
NO!!!
December 17th, 2011 09:19
Hello, peoples, I am back. I have missed this place SEVERLY! “Deryn was quite astounding, really, and entirely worth throwing away an empire for.” *sigh* You know that sentence just makes me sigh? There are just TOO MANY LOOSE ENDS AND CLIFF HANGERS! Do you WANT to make your fans die from a heart acttack??? (After I finished reading/drooling over this chapter, I almost fell out of my chair!) We NEED more! We want more, of course, but often people want things they don’t need. Mr. Westerfeld, truly, I say to you, we NEED a companion novel. We need it. Also, to the person who said that the companion novel needs to be from Adela’s point of view, I agree! ONE HUNDRED PERCENTLY!!!!! But I still think there needs to be a NEWKIRK book. It just makes sense! Or, we need to have a Newkirk week! Where we celebrate
December 17th, 2011 09:19
(cont’d from 198) Over awesome Newkirk ninja-ness!
December 17th, 2011 09:26
Is it just me, or did Volger make a ‘that’s what she said’ joke?
And the cloth and balloon Huxley sounds like that fan-made creation a while ago.
December 17th, 2011 09:46
Ohmai.
My life is complete!
Thank you, Scott-la!
*bows down to the epicness of Scott-la*
December 17th, 2011 10:26
Ada Lovelace AND Ned Kelly?!?!?!!! Thank you so much Scott and Keith, loved the references to Australia
Loved the story and the picture as well, but come on, NED KELLY!
December 17th, 2011 10:38
@ Sirius Black (formarly Ruth) #139
“FINE!!!! I DONT KNOW!!!! BUT THE CHANCES OF US GETTING THIS NEXT CHRISTMAS ARE VERY, AND I MEAN VERY, SLIM!! and I dont think Mr. Westerfeld is thinking of giving us it as a Easter gift either. BUT, to look on the bright side, I THIN IT WOULD MAKE A LOVELY VALENTINES DAY GIFT!!!” She stated smartly
December 17th, 2011 10:39
You guys combined EVERYTHING!!!!! That’s GENIOUS!!! And it satisfies our wims to some extent but I still want another Novel (hint hint nudge nudge wink wink) I’D LOVE YOU EVER SO MUCH MORE I YOU WROTE JUST ONE (hundred) MORE NOVELS/SHORT STORIES FOR TE LEVIATHAN SEIES ((((:
-Sighned your biggest book worm of a fan Odalys Aranda AKA Daliz
December 17th, 2011 10:47
SO GOOD. My Christmas is made.
December 17th, 2011 11:29
“You chose the parasol.” Alek twirled it. “I had to find a dress that matched!” This is so amusing to me. Alek acts like more like a girl than Deryn does!
Thanks for writing this, it’s brilliant. I love the drawing too. I so appreciate how you and Keith managed put everything everyone could possibly want in it!
December 17th, 2011 14:00
Wow… you actually took the time to do this for us, and it is awesome! Thank you so very much Mr. Westerfeld for being such a wonderful, kind idol. I am constantly reminded why I worship you so much. Keith’s drawing was insane! I couldn’t even imagine Deryn or Alek in such a getup, but he could, and did an insane job of drawing it! Appreciation deserved-and given- to you both.
December 17th, 2011 18:26
This made my life. Extraordinary. Alek looks so awkward, it’s so amusing. Bovril’s face is hilarious. We got what we wanted. All 3 of them in dresses, Varlow, Drunk Volger, Volger dressed up as a message lizard, and a close up kiss. Fan-friggin-tastic. No Lilit or Newkirk though…that we need. We want more, we are quite greedy. (By We I mean everyone here). Life is good. Life is really good.
December 17th, 2011 18:32
Yes. We need more. Oh and in all of the books they never mention Newkirk’s first name.
December 17th, 2011 19:29
@ 209- His first name is whatever we want it to be! Sir Awesome Newkirk III. But that’s just what I think of him.
Everytime I think of this picture I get butterflies in my stomach! Please, I NEED, WE all NEED a companion novel! Or weekly installments, but the companion novel is more likely.
December 17th, 2011 20:05
ABSOLUTELY WHAT I NEEDED!!! THANK YOU!
December 17th, 2011 20:13
Pretty much all the gratitude and anticipation and the indescribable joy that I got while reading that has been expressed above.
But I will say this: When I started reading, a sort of gargle-squee emitted from my mouth. By the end I had completely dissolved into a puddle of rabid fangirl.
Thank you SO much for this incredible nugget of brilliance, Mr. Westerfeld. Everything from Volger being “fortified” (and in character while fortification is happening) to Bovril’s backless French dress to Alek’s appraisal of Deryn and the Varlow (I see what you did there, Scott) just made this thing so excellent.
AND THE ILLUSTRATION. *is permanently indebted to Keith Thompson*
I am SO happy right now.
(And Rachel, I’m pretty sure that Scott decided in a forum meet-up that it is Eugene William Newkirk. I miss that badass plookhead.)
December 17th, 2011 20:20
Well, that’ll certainly keep me happy for a week or two.
December 17th, 2011 21:15
Man, this sucks. I have just thought about what a companian novel to Goliath, featureing mainly Deryn and Alek, during WWII and I have come to the conclusion that it would be extremaly difficult to make a intersting book with all those aspects. You could still use mainly Deryn and Alek of course but they would be, what, 35? No YA wants to read about two 35 year olds. You could also use there kids, but then there would be no romance. One other thing you could do is have one of there kids (I say one of there because i donn’t know if they will have 5 or 1) and then introduce someone new to be the love intrest, but it would be hard to inscribe the innocence of Alek and the pure Awesomeness of Deryn in two whole new charecters.
December 17th, 2011 22:20
You know what, the more I analyze this, the more I admire Volger. Here he is dressed as a beastie that he hates and drunk which could create a great deal of social embarrassment for him, and yet he is still super confident. It’s like he doesn’t give a crap. I mean, is the alcohol talking or is he just too cool for school?
December 17th, 2011 22:22
Hey Scott, I think you could learn a lot from Cassie (Clare)… She knows the even truer definition of “trilogy”
It means you wire three books- then you come back with three (or six if you look at it right) more!!
The answer to ^^this^^ is yes.
December 17th, 2011 22:55
i can’t believe. you actually. put. him. in. a dress. i think i just died inside, in more than one way.
December 17th, 2011 23:14
YAAAAAAAY!!!!! i just finished reading Goliath yesterday! Deryn looks totally AWESOMESAUCE, Alek er, doesn’t as much and BOVRIL is ADORABLE!!! (as always!)
December 17th, 2011 23:44
WE. NEED MORE!! HOW ABOUT A LEVIATHAN MANGA???!!!
December 17th, 2011 23:49
@Rachel and Perspicaciousloris, Newkirk has a name. It was decided on in a transcript of a live chat with scott some time ago. I think it was Eugene William Newkirk or something.
December 18th, 2011 00:08
(continuation of #214) Also we wouldn’t have Deryns weird speech patterns or Aleks (forgive me) tremendosly cool-er- duumkopfness.
Mr. Westerfeld if you can find some way to make a interesting book featureing Deryn and Alek I will live forevermore in your awe.
Your Loyal fan Sirius Black
December 18th, 2011 00:15
@Lalalalaura-192, well your better than me; my only knowlege of WHO exactly Ada Lovelace is limited to her mention in this bonus chapter *looks sheepish*
December 18th, 2011 00:17
funny how there’s a Midnighters reference and an Uglies reference in this chapter
December 18th, 2011 00:17
EEEEEEE!!!!! *fangirl screech* I love it
Deryn looks so awwwwwwessssssssoooooooommmme XD you can even see alek peeking through the kiss
December 18th, 2011 02:02
Eugene William Newkirk!!!!!!!!! Ahhhhh!!!!!! I love it!!!!!!!!!! Almost as much as this secret chapter!!!!!!!!!!!!! I am so happy, yet sad, because this chapter is bittersweet. I refuse to believe this is the last of our characters!!!!! It isn’t. Please say it isn’t, Mr. Westerfeld Westerfeld!!!!!!!! Please!!!!!!!
December 18th, 2011 02:05
That was so good! Oh how I shall cherish that. Thank you both for the art and the words, you’re wonderful.
December 18th, 2011 05:17
AWWWW!!!!! YOU DID ALL FOUR!!!!
December 18th, 2011 05:18
For those who were hoping for more Lilit in this bonus chapter, I, Moonie/Cardboard Edward, have provided!
http://www.fanfiction.net/s/7645401/1/The_Gryphon_and_the_Bride
It’s been far too long since I’ve written leviathan fic. Enjoy!
December 18th, 2011 05:19
Thank you Mr. Westerfeld!!!!!!! you are my fav author, and because of your awesomeness, I love to write!
December 18th, 2011 06:39
@Libby-223, What is the Uglies reference?
@Madi-La-196, I thought that too.
@Kit Kat-184, Yeah, what’s the betting that either Adela Rodgers or Eddie Malone finds out about Dalek and (former) Prince Aleksandr of Hodensburg (or whatever it was) is in the newspaper again, this time not for and embarrassing family but an equally humiliating sexual scandal?
Oh I missed you guys so much in the past three hours I haven’t been able to check. *sighs*
December 18th, 2011 07:17
@ Moonie- OH MY BARKING SPIDERS! !!!!!!!!!!!! I HAD JUST READ THAT FANFIC LIKE 10 MINUTES AGO!!!!!!!!!!! That was excellent, by the way. I loved the wedding dress!!!! How you tied in the April Fool’s Picture was pure brilliance.
December 18th, 2011 07:33
I love the ending it was sooooo funny my friend rayray and i were laughing our socks off! well… im wearing shoes, so i laughed my shoes off. and she laughed her socks off tho cuz shesnot wearing shoes……. anyway lol it was hilarious!!!
December 18th, 2011 07:34
OMG LOVED IT!!! That was so funny! my friend ad i laughed our pants off (not really)
December 18th, 2011 07:38
OMG!! my friend rayray said Narian was a girl name from a book and now shes all… o did i say it was a girl name? and also im narian not a guy! omg!!!!!!! yyyyyyyyyyyyy!but my real name isnt narian.
December 18th, 2011 07:43
Alak shrugged. “A fancy dress party has its share of indignities, I suppose. But now that I am no longer royalty, perhaps a bit of humility is in order.” . . .. . SPELLING ERROR!!! Alak shrugged. ALAK. ALAK. ALEK!!!
December 18th, 2011 08:01
*That awkward moment when the girl can totally pull off wearing the clothing of either gender, but the guy can’t at all*
December 18th, 2011 08:28
Over 200 commets already, and it’s been only two days!!!!!!!! That is how obsessed we are, Mr. Westerfeld. Could you really let us down by not writing a companion novel?
December 18th, 2011 08:53
You know, I’m glad Volger and Barlow got together, because I was really worried about the wildcount at the beginging there. However, Scott has neglected to kill off Alan Barlow, so I’m not so sure about that now… Why must I always overthink things?!
December 18th, 2011 09:12
Hey i know this has a large chance of being washed away with all of your other comments, BUT ITS WORTHA SHOT
Not trying to fanbard you or anything, but if you ever have any extra projects concerning Leviathan’s world it would be very interesting to see how the Secret Society thingy works, and how Deryn and Alek’s lifestyles change when they-
Hell with it i just want to see Deryn and Alek as super secret agents, you know with sunglasses, black turtlenecks, and those every day appliances that do crazy shit when you push a button… (Yes I know the time period is waaaaay off.) DERYN DESERVES TO BE JAMES BOND
December 18th, 2011 11:29
My little shipper heart.
It’s melting.
I am not ashamed to admit I went a bit like-
EEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
EEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE!!!!!!!!!!!!!
OMG OMG OMG OMG OMG!!!!!!!!
[Insert uncontrollable grinning here]
TEEHEE! VOLGER! DALEK! EEEEEE!!!!!!!!!
December 18th, 2011 18:30
Dear Mr. Scott
Please write a companion novel or series. I already have to read all three books of the series at least once a month or I go into Goliath withdrawl, that is how much I love this series. However, this is still not enough, if a companion to the books that includes the characters doesn’t come out I will probably die, so please, please, please at least write a bonus chapter to goliath and have Keith draw a piece of bonus art once a year. Thank you for taking the time to read this comment and thank you in advance for responding with a yes or no. Remember, I will probably dueig you don’t.
Thank you,
M@X
December 18th, 2011 18:41
@Dudley
I noticed that too! It made my day!
December 18th, 2011 22:10
@Em-235, I know right! Girls have a way more, yes i can pull this off and if you question it… atitude than those annoyingly (but avravatingly nessicery) independent boys.
December 18th, 2011 22:56
A bit fanservicey for my taste, but a great addition none-the-less. I love Aleks choice of Ada Lovelace; reminds me of a series of webcomics I ran across some time ago. Looking forward to the Manual of Aeronautics with high hopes to see plenty of Clanker tech.
December 19th, 2011 00:18
thank u so much for putting in an extra ending and all.. and u know how some people want another book? well if u were to do another book, then what would u write about? i mean, the war is ending, and alek and dylan/daren are together and volger and dr barlow are together.. but im still confused on that part cuz isnt dr barlow married??????????????? is she divorcing him or whatever? is she going to marry volger? does she still love her husband? does she love volger? or are they just friends?????
December 19th, 2011 01:06
okay, now i can be happy about the series ending (unless another book cstill laughing so hard!!! omes out….) i love that all 4 choices were combined! aesomeawesomeawesome!!!!
December 19th, 2011 02:13
Just read it for the second time through and I love it even more now!
December 19th, 2011 04:05
@ 244- Correction: There is no Varlow, unfortunately. Yet, it is really hard to discribe their relationship. I highly doubt that Count will follow in the steps of Alek, switch sides of the war, and fall in love with a Darwinist, a boffin, for goodness’ sake! It would be too weird, and somewhat repetetive. The companion book would be filled with Zoological Society Alek/Deryn adventures,of course! Missions, new beasties, and awesomeness! Dalek fluff. Plenty of Dalek fluff.
December 19th, 2011 05:09
@Evalyn-245, I thought the same thing. Check out my awesome rant (sort of) on the subject. They are on comments #’s 214 and 221.
December 19th, 2011 05:13
@Gecogally-239, I laughed when I read that, in a good way don’t worry. Deryn is way more-freakin-awesome than James Bond!!! Not only does she deserve to act like him but she also deserves SEVERAL MOVIES (and books! hint hint nudge nudge)
December 19th, 2011 05:45
Brilliant
December 19th, 2011 07:42
This…is…ruddy…BRILLIANT!!! It’s worth 6746348964161321684634360etcetcetc FAF’s!!!
Thanks a bunch Scott and Keith!!!
December 19th, 2011 07:54
LoL I love comment 164! I kind of thought the same thing… “Wait a sec… since when did THAT happen?”
@M@X. Oh, yes. GO TEAM IOWA!!! (Not necessarily the Iowa Hawkeyes, just the state of Iowa in general, to those of you who are opinionated in the matter)
@ Scott-la. I’m pretty sure I’ve read this–let’s just say more than once–and stared at the picture for a ridiculously long time (and NOT in a creepy way, I swear!) to study the way Keith draws it. I want to be able to draw like him. What medium does he use? Pencil? Charcoal?
@Rachel. Yes! Keep using “Oh My Barking Spiders!” I laughed like crazy when I read that…
December 19th, 2011 09:03
GO TEAM IOWA!
@ Miss Lisa: Iowa is great.
Salt is also from Iowa, as well as several others. It would appear scott has a large fan base here, despite skipping Iowa all together on his tour.
GO TEAM COMPANION NOVEL!
December 19th, 2011 09:05
@ Miss Lissa (252) Yay! I’ve said that at school before, but I usually don’t get that same reaction from my classmates. I’ve stared at that picture forever, and I just sigh and like… *sigh* Like that.
December 19th, 2011 12:24
this just made my life.
December 19th, 2011 19:28
@M@X. I’m ashamed to admit that even if he had come to Iowa on his tour, I would not have been there as I only discovered Leviathan about a month ago. And yes, Go Team Companion Novel!
@Rachel. Another thing I’ve started saying is “Huxley clart” instead of “Bull crap”. I haven’t gotten much of a chance to say it yet, but when the time comes, it will be grand… *looks at illustration again* *Sigh* Yeah, that happens to me, too.
December 19th, 2011 19:28
@Bridget. Of course it just made your life! It’s an authorfic filled to the brim with Dalek!
December 19th, 2011 20:08
@ Miss Lissa- 256- That’s dead brilliant! I would say it at school, but people would think I’m crazier than I already am. How did you discover Leviathan? I went over my cousin’s house, needing something to read for my summer project, and she told me about Leviathan, and the map on the inside cover drew my attention! I was a very daft lassie back in sixth grade, and I wasn’t HOOKED on it, but on the day Behemoth came out, my mom had it in her car, and when I saw it I started screaming!!!!! Thank you, Keith for your barking amazing drawing skills!
December 19th, 2011 21:04
That just made my life. @ Rachel: Same with me!!! I wasn’t daft about Leviathan when my 6th grade teacher said I should read it, then I finished it in 3 days or something then bugged my parents to no end to buy me Behemoth. Then when Goliath came out, my da hid it and I seriously screamed when I found it!!! Bravo Keith and Scott and GO COMPANION NOVEL!!!!!
December 19th, 2011 21:05
Can we pretty please have the same thing with Alek in Alek clothes?! *puppy dog eyes*
December 19th, 2011 21:11
@ Clanker Rose- AHHHHHH!!!!!!!! I WOULD’VE HAD A HEART ATTACK!!!!! I was “sick” on September 20, (really, I was) but it worked out well because I stayed home and read Goliath in like 5 hours!!!!! Thankfully, my mom went to the grocery when I finished it, so I could be by myself and scream my barking head off when I finished it!!!!! When I got to the part where “The Walker Shoots Deryn” and I was like “Oh, well played Mr. Westerfeld. Well played.”
December 19th, 2011 21:27
Does anyone feel extremely depressed after reading this authorfic?
December 20th, 2011 01:03
@Rachel: Why would we be depressed?
@Scott-la: A mix of everything is anyone’s fave! Well played indeed!
December 20th, 2011 01:56
@ 263- BECAUSE IT’S OVER!!!!! THAT WAS IT!!!!!!! THAT WAS THE END!!!!!!!! Not that I didn’t love it, (it was barking brilliant) but that was the last of Alek and Deryn. Period.
December 20th, 2011 02:46
We’ve already taught you once, Scott, I didn’t think we’d need to do it agin! Four words for you: SECRET MEANING OF TRILOGY. Clearly, you’re not ready to move on either.
December 20th, 2011 03:48
Now you understand my depression.
December 20th, 2011 03:54
You’re officially my favorite author (and Keith, my favorite artist)
December 20th, 2011 04:19
no companion novel, but there should be lots of short stories in the manual of aeronautics.
December 20th, 2011 06:23
AHAHAHA yes epic win! Thank you SO much, this was perfect! I loved the ending to Goliath, but this really should have been included as the epilogue. It’s exactly how I imagined their lives after the official ending.
December 20th, 2011 06:24
Ever read the mortal instruments trilogy? After finishing it the author wrote a companion trilogy with the same characters in the same world, but with both series going after different ends. The percy jackson series did the same thing, except for the fact it wasn’t a trilogy, so did Scott’s Uglies Series, it’s a trilogy, but with another novel that’s the same but different.
December 20th, 2011 06:51
@ M@X- you kinda lost me after the first sentence.
@ Paola- Ahhh! I can’t believe you said that! If there’s going to be short stories, then they might as well be collected together in a companion novel!!!!!!
December 20th, 2011 09:03
Finally! The bonus piece of art! And a hot piece at that…
December 20th, 2011 09:46
Also, while I’m at it: I was looking up some Scott Westerfeld quotes a while ago and I realized that the “-la” thing pertained to Uglies, a series which I (stupidly) have never read. The reason I call myself “The Joker-la” is because an even longer time ago I was reading a blog entry by Mr. Westerfeld where someone had asked him if they could call him Scott (without his surname). He answered yes, but you may also refer to him as “Scott-La”, which I took to be an on-the-spot joke without reference to anything. I now realize I was wrong. Therefore, I shall officially change my internet moniker to ” Sergeant Pepper”, after a Beatles song you may be familiar with. Perhaps one day when I do read the Uglies series I may change it back. Until then…
December 20th, 2011 09:47
…Ah, that’s better.
December 20th, 2011 18:43
Let’s all have a moment of silence, for commemorating Goliath because it ENDED 97 YEARS AGO, TODAY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
December 20th, 2011 20:38
But it doesn’t have to end!!!!! If we all join together, with one purpose, one goal, one dream, of a companion novel, we won’t have to say goodbye so soon. LONG LIVE COMPANION NOVEL!!!!
December 20th, 2011 22:59
What a treat! Thank you so much, Scott and Keith. A couple of you young’uns NEED to cosplay this shot.
December 20th, 2011 23:19
@271- about M@M they lost me too.
December 20th, 2011 23:20
@275- cool!
December 20th, 2011 23:21
@277- young’uns?!? you can too!
December 21st, 2011 00:19
Sorry if my comment was confusing, it was a way of showing that just because a series is a trilogy, that doesn’t mean there will only be three books with that character.
December 21st, 2011 01:21
@ M@X- it’s alright. We just had to read between the lines to know you were justifying that a companion novel is barking awesome.GO TEAM COMPANION NOVEL!!!!!!!!!!!!
@ Scott-la- Please, Mr. Westerfeld, listento your fans!!!!! We aren’t ready to give up on Alek, Deryn, Bovril, Dr. Barlow, Count V, and NEWKIRK!!!!!! Like someone said earlier, you don’t seem ready to let them go, either! This is the most unique book I have read- and no other author writes like you. I had convinced 4 of my schoolmates to read the Leviathan trilogy, and they ALL loved it! Please don’t give up on your fans! Not yet.
December 21st, 2011 01:31
@sergeant pepper: and here I was, thinking you were the world’s only male uglies fan. How did you not know that?
December 21st, 2011 01:32
I apologize or the above comment. I just couldn’t resist the urge to say that.
December 21st, 2011 01:33
ASFJ SDUFH SD:KFJ SDTKJ SDF
the “One so rarely has the opportunity to dance with a reptile” is the best line of all
December 21st, 2011 01:40
Is there any possibility (assuming there’s no companion novel/continuation of the series that this could become a semi-regular thing? Once every few years or on the big anniversary’s of the series ending?
December 21st, 2011 01:42
*edit* Theres supposed to be another paranthesis in there somwhere
December 21st, 2011 01:48
1. “Deryn was quite astounding, really, and entirely worth throwing away an empire for.”
2. “Not that he minded seeing her in a jacket and trousers every day. It was apart of the frission of their romance, that he knew something about her that only a handful of others did. But still, he was as curious as any boy would be in these circumstances.”"
3. “‘Doesn’t it seem… unnecessarily large to you?’”
MY TOP THREE FAVORITE QUOTES IN ORDER OF MY FAVORITISM!!!
December 21st, 2011 01:50
@ Oraldiaster101- that’s exactly what I was thinking as well!
December 21st, 2011 01:52
Okay, everyone scroll down to the very bottom of your screen!!!!! Do you see the smiley face, too?????
December 21st, 2011 02:40
scott & keith. dudes, THAT WAS EPIC!!!
i wish to see a possible sex-scene in future, I DEMAND IT!!!
December 21st, 2011 02:44
*fangirl screams* YES YES YES YES YES. I AM SO HAPPY.
*impromptu awkward little dance of glee and barely restrained joy*
SOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO worth it, ja Alek?
December 21st, 2011 02:52
@Silent Pages
what about fabricated humans!!!
imagine the conflict! the death grapple for superiority! the conflicting ideals! a war that could very well be for the very existence of humankind or for the very freedom/lives of the enslaved fabri-humans! the now more (or less) grown up deryn or alek struggling to keep a contraversial relationship together in a world that is tearing itself apart in every way!
OMG! scott-la/keith-ra! there is at least an entire series of books here!
December 21st, 2011 02:55
Scott-la, this was amazing!!! =D I am glad that Deryn and Alek finally came to their senses… if that is possible. I just finished Goliath, and my BFF told me to come here and read this extra chapter. AMAZING!!! Keep up the good work!
December 21st, 2011 05:04
Yes, I see the smiley face.
December 21st, 2011 05:04
AHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA.
December 21st, 2011 07:03
This is too sweet…I miss Leviathan. It passed by way too quickly. =(
December 21st, 2011 07:04
Ha! That’s great and it made me genuinely lol. Doesn’t Alek look like Mary Poppins…?
December 21st, 2011 07:11
Ohmygod. This is SO CUTE.
-w-
I just can’t stop staring at this picture… Only if my life was as swashbuckling as Alek’s…
I envy this romance.
December 21st, 2011 07:12
This is what I wanted to read! Its everything that I could want in a Goliath bonus chapter! The picture is so awesome, by the way. And of course, we get to see Deryn in a dress.
Love it!
December 21st, 2011 07:12
Ada Lovelace
December 21st, 2011 07:39
Amazing
December 21st, 2011 07:40
Laughing. Forever. Thank you, both of you, so, so much!
December 21st, 2011 07:58
@ 295- Yes! I’m not as insane as everyone knows I am!
@ 299- Oh my barking spiders! I KNOW! I have been searching for a real life Newkirk! I love Alek’s jacket, you know the normalcone he wears. I’ve been looking for it too!
@ 293- AHHHHHHH!!!!!!!! That is so barking BRILLIANT it blew my mind!!!!!!!
December 21st, 2011 08:00
* sorry * there was a spelling error in 304. I meant Alek’s jacket, the NORMAL ONE that he wears. I’m typing on my Kindle Fire and I’m not used to a touch screen. Barking Clanker contraptions.
December 21st, 2011 08:05
OMG! This is so awesome! :3 Thank you!
December 21st, 2011 08:08
Bravo gentlemen Bravo. A truly perfect series with grand “fan” fiction. this was worth the wait. Thank you both for such a genuinely fantastic read. Only thing that could make this better is another book. “hint hint” Thank you again.
December 21st, 2011 08:13
well now mr.westerfild you have found more trobble for youre self
but that was awesome and thank you for the picture keith it was a true work of art
because you have opend up ew door ways too new adventers to this book now you MUST write another one telling of dryen meeting up with her past becus you must not leav that hanging and the same thing gose for alek you have yet to finish this series onec you finish the past meeting up with the presint then you writ onne more for the closeure THEN YOU ARE DONE okay just to let you know and sorry for my misspelling
December 21st, 2011 08:15
Zikedra comment 293
That sounds like a most intriguing idea. Scott, Keith perhaps you should continue your brilliant work
December 21st, 2011 08:44
I apoligize for causing you so much trouble, Mr. Westerfeld, but as one of your many, many obsessed fans, we all want to read more! Isn’t this WHY you wrote Leviathan, in the first place, for people to enjoy what you wrote? For people to be your fans? Reading Leviathan has been an escape, a joy, and a privilege. I will be forever indebted to you if you continue the story that has proved to be my favorite storybook world, in which I frequently visit. Go companion novel!
If a companion novel doesn’t work out, a I’ll try not to be too disappointed.
One of your many fans, who all want you to succeed,
Rachel.
December 21st, 2011 08:45
This setting would make a fantastic table top (or difference engine
) RPG.
December 21st, 2011 09:03
seriously you gave me the best Christmas present! i love you so much for this! your like the best author ever! now excuse me as i read this ‘fanfic’ a billion more times!
December 21st, 2011 09:42
Good night, (well, technically it’s midnight, here) my friends, continue voting for.a companion novel. I’ll be back tomorrow (or, hmm, today- but later, when the sun is up). I’ll have dreams full of dancing Bovrils, hippie Volgers, Dr. Barlow yodelling, and companion novels.
* nudge nudge *
December 21st, 2011 12:15
WARNING: Following post may contain coarse language
Hot damn that’s good!
I totally want to cosplay Deryn.
Holy crap that picture….is what I’ve been waiting for my whole life. I pictured Alek’s dress to be hotter but have bigger bows and I didn’t picture Deryn so sexy, but I like it like this!
Yes!! Bonus Chapter! This made me so happy. While I was reading I could picture it and it was so amazing! THANK YOU SCOTT WESTERFELD AND THANK YOU KEITH THOMPSON!!! You two just made my year so awesome! Thank you so very very much!
December 21st, 2011 21:18
Companion series or WWII series? PWEASE?! *begs*
December 21st, 2011 22:11
No WWII! We’d miss out on all of Alek and Deryn’s adventures in the Society! Plus, they’d old and crotchety and not as spunky.
The only way I’d read the WWII companion novel is if Newkirk were Captain of the Leviathan. Which would be awesome, but there’s no way he could replace Alek and Deryn.
That is if there IS a companion novel.
December 22nd, 2011 00:55
@Rachel
I tots agree. reading books about crotchety people just isnt the same. Newkirk will definitely become the captain of Leviathan in my mind, at least.
i guess i will have to imagine that the former captain was eaten by a… errrrr.. …..ummmm…………..GOT IT! A really hungry message lizard! (?). BYE OLD CAPTAIN!!!!!!
December 22nd, 2011 02:07
LOLZ. I is happy.
December 22nd, 2011 02:20
@ Selin- Let’s have a moment of silence, for Captain Hobbes, age 53, who fought valiantly and served as Captain of the Leviathan during the Great War. He passed away due to a message lizard attack, and will forever be remembered as the first Darwinist man to die at the hands, or claws, of a direct fabricated animal attack. His successor is Mr. Eugene Newkirk, and will be commanding the Leviathan, as outlined in Mr. Hobbes’ will.
December 22nd, 2011 04:08
This is AMAZING..
but, sadly.. you’ve let your guard down.
62nd Paragraph from the top, first word.
‘Alak’..
Tut tut tut.
But in all seriousness this is what I’ve been wating for
December 22nd, 2011 06:28
Oh my gosh I was smiling the entire time! I love this. I literally came up to my friend today and was like “THERE’S A NEW CHAPTER OF GOLIATH AND ALEK AND DERYN ARE BOTH WEARING DRESSES!!!” and she was freaking out with happiness. Please make a fourth book Mr. Westerfeld/Scott-La!!!!
December 22nd, 2011 07:25
@A FOR AWESOME-*with distinct frown on face* this is a YOUNG ADULT NOVEL not some sort of like weird-o demented teen vampire thing. I think that the fact that this series is so good that it need not be suggestive is fabulous and these books should NOT be turned into, as a said before, a boring book for demented teenagers whose self-confidence is so low that the only way they can feel good about themselves is to read about that kind of crap.
December 22nd, 2011 07:27
*edit* as _I_ said before
December 22nd, 2011 07:30
@Rachel-317, I said that too, except I wouldn’t like a book about Newkirk. His character is too undefined.
December 22nd, 2011 07:32
THIS IS AMAZING! I was smiling all the way through. And the art is lovely!
December 22nd, 2011 07:40
WIN.
December 22nd, 2011 07:51
Aw man, can’t believe it’s over… I really loved your Leviathan trilogy because it was pure epic, stunning, and AWESOME. When I got my final book, I literally went berserk over it. And when I finished, I almost cries because the trilogy had ended. But this final chapter has flabbergasted me. If only you could keep making books about the romantic couple. Hope you keep making books similar to these! Really enjoyed reading this…..*sigh*
December 22nd, 2011 07:55
And special thanks to Keith Thompson! His beautiful yet bewildering illustrations truly inspired me to draw again. The epic battles, the insanely awesome full page drawings… Man, I need more of this. Thank you and Scott for creating these (indescribable words) books….*sigh* it’s over….
December 22nd, 2011 17:48
Can’t you people be happy with the sweet innocence Alek and Deryn display in their relationship? Really, Alek is kind, courteous, and a gentleman, and would not, ummm, YOU KNOW with Deryn because they aren’t married, because his parents probably taught him what it means to be a young man. A beautiful relationship is not based on lust, but rather on kindness and respect towards the other person.
A relationship like that is hard to find, these days.
December 23rd, 2011 03:53
Mein Gott!
December 23rd, 2011 04:58
You know, this scene would be a HILARIOUS blooper that they could put at the end of the credits if Leviathan were a movie.
December 23rd, 2011 23:45
Mr. Westerfeld,
You know you have created a fictional world of insane epicness when you have 332 comments on a short story.
Thanks to you, I am officially teaching myself how to swear in German. And you have created a mob of fangirls (and fanboys, if that’s the correct term..) who are absolutely obsessed with the alternate universe of Leviathan. And thank you for teaching me the term ‘Steampunk’, which I now use to confuse my family. And for all those historical facts that I will now proceed to rub in my step-father’s face.
I have to agree to someone’s comment way back in the one hundreds section, but learn from Cassandra Clare’s example and make a proper trilogy; six books. Or learn from Christopher Paolini and make a trilogy his way (which ended up producing a fourth instalment to his Inheritance cycle). Not to be pushy or anything.
As for the bonus chapter’s picture, I find that Alek looks more uncomfortable in his dress the more you stare at the him. So obviously, I love it.
I’ve only actually been reading the Leviathan trilogy for about three days, so I’m feeling very proud of myself, and I am glad that I read it while I was on a break from school, because I can picture myself in English class reading my book at any spot that at least has the slightest mention of Dalek and shoving my face into the book and screaming in that fangirl EEPing way. And then having everyone stare at me.
I know this one last part was supposed to be meant as closure, but reading it just made me want more. Which is sad, because I’m already suffering from Leviathan withdrawl.
I’ve heard of the Uglies series before, but have never actually picked them up and read them. And I think that I actually have it on my ebook (curse the darn thing), and so I will locate my ebook and read them. And then I will proceed to find out whatever else you’ve written and read those, too. And when I’ve read the Uglies, I will officially be able to add the ‘-la’ to the end of my name, because I’ve read somewhere in the comments that it was in refrence to the Uglies.
Either way, I think that’s all. I only know because I’ve ran out of things to say (which never happens), and so I’ll be shutting up now.
Cat
December 24th, 2011 00:13
LOVE LOVE LOVE!
best thing since….. idk what!
December 24th, 2011 01:32
I have the full Leviathan trilogy on my Kindle Fire! I love how you can zoom in on the Kiss picture! * cough cough since someone decided not to do it *
And once I got finished with Goliath, I seriously cried because I was so depressed. And my sister snatched it from my hands and started reading it. She got it second because she got to read Uncommon Criminals first, and we made a deal if she got to read that first, I got to read Goliath first. Besides, I’m the older sister, and I had been waiktkng for Goliath longer than she did.
Ha ha.
December 24th, 2011 02:37
@Rachel-335, you can do that!??!?!?!?! I totally should!!!!!
December 24th, 2011 02:52
Yes, it is AMAZING! I’m commentingon this blog WITH MY KINDLE FIRE!
Be in awe, peoples. It is totally awe worthy.
December 24th, 2011 05:00
@Rachel: I just have the Kindle. You can’t do many amazing things on it. It’s tragic, really.
I got Leviathan last Friday and borrowed Behemoth from my friend on Monday, and got Goliath two days ago. Can you believe that? TWO WHOLE DAYS WITHOUT A NEW LEVIATHAN BOOK!
December 24th, 2011 05:46
@ 338- GASP! THAT’S TERRIBLE! I would’ve died. But then again, I had to wait over 6 months for Goliath. At school I would skip down the hallways singing “4 months and 29 days! 4 months and 28 days!” On and on. I counted down the days to Goliath in my school agenda.
But those must have been the longest two days of your entire life.
December 24th, 2011 06:19
@Rachel: Absolutely. And I wasn’t in school, so it felt even longer. I’m waiting for another book series right now. 136 days until it comes out!
December 24th, 2011 06:24
@ 340- yikes. What book series is it?
December 24th, 2011 07:08
@341: The Mortal Instruments by Cassandra Clare. I’m waiting for City of Lost Souls (it had better make up for the last one. I swear I threw the book across the room).
December 24th, 2011 07:37
@ 342- ah, several classmates of mine are reading that series.
December 24th, 2011 10:33
I love the picture. It makes me want to laugh my freaking head off, and smile!
December 24th, 2011 11:16
._. I haven’t been on here in forever. Geez. But anyway. SO MUCH LOVE <3 YOU DO NOT EVEN UNDERSTAND HOW MUCH GLEE THIS HAS GIVEN ME.
December 24th, 2011 19:08
@343: Yeah. My friend (who incidently introduced me to Leviathan) and I jump around in the hallway sining “135 days, 135 days!” or however many days it is. Either way, it’s not a bad series.
December 24th, 2011 23:59
I love it!! Finally! The closure I was looking for. When I saw this, I almost squealed with excitement! Although I do feel bad for those who said that Deryn in a dress would scar their memory of her. I still like the idea of more books or more fan-fics! Both of them on some special mission for the society or something…
December 25th, 2011 04:38
@ Anyone who thinks that this is closure- HOW CAN YOU THINK THIS WAS CLOSURE?
December 25th, 2011 07:07
BEAUTIFUL. Oh, I would love to see more short little chapters of their lives like this! I can understand not continuing with the series (though I would not be against it AT ALL.) But little snippits of their future like this are wonderful! Oh! And the art was fantastic! Hahaha. To go from a distant picture of them both as boys kissing, to a close up of them both as girls. Hilarious! If only we could get one of them both in proper gender attire for once. But still. THANK YOU. You are so good to us!
December 25th, 2011 07:26
@348: AGREED!
December 25th, 2011 14:49
THIS IS SO AWESOME! I just think that it is so funny whatever Broil is doing!
I never thought that I would see, or image, Deryn and\or Alek in a dress! 
I just love it sooo much! Thank you so much for the bonus chapter!!!! 
December 25th, 2011 14:52
THIS IS SO AWESOME! I just think that it is so funny whatever Brovil is doing!
I never thought that I would see, or image, Deryn and\or Alek in a dress! 
I just love it sooo much! Thank you so much for the bonus chapter!!!! 
December 26th, 2011 00:45
Whoa. Deryn looks nice in a dress… Its a nice change from seeing her in her uniform!
December 26th, 2011 02:05
Aaaaaah~ This is so cute, i swear <3 Dear God up in heaven, i can't stop staring at the picture <3 we NEED another book, we physically NEED another book, Scott-la ;A;
December 26th, 2011 03:04
@ 354- Ditto! That’s exactly how I feel!
Yo, wester-freaks, ready your beasties, your machines, your angry squirrels, and PIE! We are going to “persuade” Mr. Westerfeld to write a companion novel!
ATTACK!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
December 26th, 2011 23:26
That was very sneaky how he fit in Alek in a dress, Deryn in a dress AND a close up kiss… Respect.
December 27th, 2011 04:23
I literally just started to read the Leviathan trilogy last Thursday, when our local library just happened to have the first 2 books finally. By Saturday, I had finished the first two and couldn’t wait until the bookstores reopened today so I could go buy Goliath with Christmas money. Needless to say, I bought it this morning and just finished it. Imagine my delight when I discovered the bonus chapter and art on the website right after I finished!!!!! I was so excited, and it was a lovely surprise!!!!! Please please write more!
December 27th, 2011 06:21
Spring-Heeled Jack!!
Scottmeister!! I didnt think you would mention anythin…no one does! 
December 27th, 2011 08:19
@ Catherine- wow! Are you feeling the post-Goliath-and-extra-chapter-bonus-art depression sink in yet?
December 28th, 2011 22:36
@ Rachel – Yeah I sort of am! My post-awesome-trilogy-euphoria is slowly being invaded by my depression that there isn’t any more!! I hardly know what to do with myself…
December 29th, 2011 06:48
wow, the weight of it hit me yesterday-that’s IT! :’(
it’s over! no more leviathan! (except the manuel of aeronautics, but thats not the same)
plus now I’m like freaking out all the time about it and how amazing it was!
AHHHHHH!
P.S. LOVE the bonus chapter!!!!!
December 29th, 2011 06:53
P.S.S. (or is it P.P.S.? whatever…)
you should make these like a weekly thing. little bonus chapters. though i did think the series had a very satisfying ending, how it left it open for thought. but i WOULD NOT object to more leviathan, i mean come ON! how could you?
December 29th, 2011 07:27
Got goliath for christmas and had to keep myself from reading this until I finished the book well worth the wait
December 29th, 2011 20:43
@ 361- yes, it is very unnerving, is it not? To know that was the END. That was IT.
@ 362- if one were to write weekly installments, then why not collect them together in a companion novel? Besides, Mr. Westerfeld could make money off of the installments if they were to be published in a book.
It just makes sense.
December 30th, 2011 23:20
Hey do you guys think Alek will ever grow? It’s hilarious that Deryn’s bending at her knees and she’s still so much taller than him!
December 31st, 2011 02:20
@ 365- Bending at her knees? In what sense?
January 1st, 2012 22:01
THIS IS AWESOME! WHO WOULD IT WOULD HAVE HAPPENED WHILE THEY WERE BOTH WEARING DRESSES……LoL……..XD
P.s. have you ever thought of making a forth book for the seriesMr. W. Alek and Deryn could be on a secret mission together and you could call the book KRAKEN.
@366-if you look at the picture rachel ….or….ummm……Ronnie Deryn’s knees are bent, because she is to tall for Alek.
January 1st, 2012 22:06
OMG!!!!! WHAT WAS I SAYING. THE STUFF AT THE TOP DOESN’T MAKE ANY SENSE.LOL!!!
WHAT I MENT TO SAY WAS THAT WHO WOULD HAVE THOUGHT IT WOULD HAVE HAPPENED WHILE THEY WERE IN THE DRESS.
January 2nd, 2012 00:33
I did it again. my spelling and word choice are really bad today.(thinks to himself, stupid, stupid, stupid!)
January 2nd, 2012 03:41
Loved it, read the last book quickly…and finding this was just awesome. Wish it didn’t have to end. T.T
January 2nd, 2012 09:11
you need to write a fourth book for this series please
January 3rd, 2012 05:47
@371- i agree
January 3rd, 2012 08:52
Best conclusion to the greatest series ever!
January 3rd, 2012 11:20
Dess would be pleased to hear of Alek’s Ada Lovelace reference…
January 4th, 2012 01:13
Cosplay-tastic!!! When I saw the pic I thought “Lillit’s gonna be mad”
January 6th, 2012 02:29
@ 373- WHAT DO YOU MEAN CONCLUSION!!!!! IT’S NOT GOING TO END!!!!!!
I SIMPLY REFUSE to believe it will end.
* crosses arms over chest and stamps foot defiantly *
January 6th, 2012 02:53
so did we lose
January 6th, 2012 11:09
I love the Lovelace reference! Midnighters <3
January 6th, 2012 20:09
I now want Deryn’s dress
January 7th, 2012 07:42
Brilliant
UGLIES LIVES
January 7th, 2012 07:44
@363-SAME!!! It was so hard!!
UGLIES LIVES
January 9th, 2012 01:21
Thank you:) haha!
Ps: Alek is spelt Alak once.
January 10th, 2012 03:54
Who cares about barking typos? The chapter was AMAZING!!!!!!!!!!!!
January 11th, 2012 02:11
Oh my gosh I loved the mention of Ada Lovelace in there! Fess would be estatic!!! ^_^
January 13th, 2012 01:02
How is it possible to be such an awesome human being. I had spasms when I finished reading your story because of the sheer absurdity of its awesomeness and now you give me this. Mr. Westerfield, this is just too much.
January 13th, 2012 07:42
You, Scott Westerfeld, are an inspiration for all us authors, fanficers, and other types of literature persons. I hope you continue your marvelous work with all your series’, both those already written and those that are yet to come. And if you ever stop by fanfiction.net, you’re more than welcome to visit my page, as well as those of many others that idolize your work.
January 14th, 2012 19:07
HAHAHAHA They’re so FABULOUSSSSSSSSSSSSS
but…it’s over. It’s really over…
I AM glad that you remembered how awesome these characters are to write..maybe another series? wink, wink?
January 16th, 2012 22:34
Couldn’t. Stop. Laughing. I think we need more…
January 17th, 2012 03:14
THIS WAS AWESOME, SCOTT-SENSEI! I loved it! I’m currently studying to become a good author, have since I finished the Uglies series! When I heard about this I’m like OMG MUST READ!!!! I currently write Fan Fictions and I think that I might make a mini fan fiction of this fan fiction to end my current fan fic of Behemoth going into Goliath. It would make the perfect cliff-hanger ending to enter into my sequel! Thank you Scott-Sensei!!!! =D =D =D =D =D =D =D =D =D =D
January 19th, 2012 05:29
thanks scott-la, loved this!! perfect- combined almost everything people wanted to see brilliantly. and so funny xD
January 20th, 2012 22:19
OMG WE WANT AN AFTERMATH (well I do) I mean come on WHAT HAPPENS AFTER DA PARTY MUST KNOW MAKE ANOTHR PLZ WE NEEEEEEEEEEED ANOTHER
January 20th, 2012 23:46
Oh My Gosh! How is it that I’m only finding this NOW?! I was literally squealing in my chair throughout the whole thing, and the picture is just priceless
Thank you so much for this!
January 21st, 2012 07:07
YYYEEEEEEEEEEESSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSS!!!!!!!!!!!!
January 21st, 2012 15:13
I only finished the book this morning <3 Finally I got to read the extra bit, aaah – thank you so much, Scott & Keith
January 22nd, 2012 01:48
hehehe… i love it, deryn looks so comfortable but alek looks so nervous he might puke!
p.s. i was very disappointed when it ended, i’m crossing my fingers for more
January 22nd, 2012 18:20
OHMIGODOHMIGODOHMIGODYESSSSSSSSSSSSSSS
January 23rd, 2012 00:55
Also, Deryn looks rather more fetching than Alek in a dress. Apologies, your princeliness, but perhaps you should stick to cavalry jackets?
January 23rd, 2012 04:30
I CAN’T DESCRIBE WITH WORDS THE EMOTIONS IN MY BRAIN
January 27th, 2012 06:19
why is this the last book i feel like there should be a other book.please write one more book.
January 28th, 2012 10:07
HOW DID I NOT SEE THIS UNTIL NOW? What an absolutely fantastic surprise for myself… oh goodness. DERYN LOOKS AMAZING, WOW. Just wow. This is the best day ever.
January 28th, 2012 11:47
I would very much like to read another book in the series. Thanks, Scott, for creating such brilliant characters. I feel as if these characters were real people. I should hate never to hear from them again after things just started getting interesting!
January 30th, 2012 08:29
PLEEASE PLEASE PLEASE make a fourth book!! Cuz the Leviathan sequence sounds WAY cooler than the Leviathan trilogy!
Wink Wink
Right?
January 31st, 2012 06:53
omg thank you, thank you, thank you!!!!! so awesome!
it would be too cool if you wrote another chapter to the story!!!!
the romance between Deryn and Alek is a real pageturner!!
please please please write another chapter!
January 31st, 2012 09:17
please write a fourth book!!!!
would be awesome if deryn and alek had a kid and he/she served in world war II!!!!!!!!!!! something like that! need more steampunk!!
February 1st, 2012 06:06
Hahahaha (evil laugh) i’m the last comment! Bovril looks weird in a dress…
Probably not for long…
February 1st, 2012 06:08
p.s. why is Alek’s butt so big!!!!!
February 16th, 2012 06:04
Mr. Westerfield, you now must know that you have some truly devoted fans.
Your books are amazing. Good job! And a special thanks to Keth, for drawing these pictures
February 20th, 2012 07:04
why cant you make another book????????????????? pleeeeeeeeeaaaaaaaasssssseeeeee could you? i totally love your series! i was so sad that it ended that way!!!!!!!!!!! i. need. another. book. now. PLEEEEEEEEAAAAAASSSSSEEEEE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
February 21st, 2012 03:19
Why??? Please tell me there is a fabricated beast that will make me forget this. I understand this pleases most fans out there, but seriously?
February 21st, 2012 05:01
make a world war 2 series? best esries ive read
February 21st, 2012 10:54
Definenty another series!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I want one with
a) romace
b)more Bovril
c)Deryn & Alek
d)and of course more awesome pictures!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
February 22nd, 2012 02:43
Please make one more book or some sort of prologue of the rest of all the main characters lives!! PLEASE!