D'Artagnon

I suppose, in a way, wanting to add extra colours to the flag to include - who ever, is not unlike adding extra letters to LGBT - to include - who ever. There is a great blog posting about that here LGBT, LGBTQ, LGBTQRSTUVWTF?
The one difference being the extra letters are to encompass types of sexuality and not ethnic origins, which is perhaps the whole point being made.
Sometimes - in both cases - you can just go too far. And for what purpose? Because someone came up with the idea?
Have you counted the stars on the European flag? There are 12. The flag was designed in 1955, 
Against the blue sky of the Western world, the stars represent the peoples of Europe in a circle, a symbol of unity. Their number shall be invariably set at twelve, the symbol of completeness and perfection.
— Council of Europe. Paris, 7–9 December 1955   As other nations joined the union there were calls for stars to be added, and flags with 15, then 25 stars have existed. It has never been an officially adopted flag by all member states of the European Union, but it has over time become a strong symbol that represents that union. In much the same way that the present rainbow flag has also become a strong symbol and represents the gay community - That is the gay community in all its diversity and colours.  

A little history.  Best to make an informed decision with all facts.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rainbow_flag_(LGBT_movement)

As much as I understand and respect the idea of inclusion, equality and reject racism, I think that changing the flag is wrong.  I get the feelings of those who believe WE have left our brothers of other colors behind, but WE haven't.  The rainbow flag already represents them, it already includes them.  Keep the symbol, just keep our awareness of all those who aren't white, male, Americans but are also Lesbian, and Gay, and Bisexual, and Trans, and Questioning.  It's already a symbol bigger than those who raise it high, shelter under it, and fight for all of us wearing it.
Keep the flag, keep the fight, and keep the truth.  Let's not make this racist.  Let's make it human.

As a writer, you present a story, often hoping to deliver a particular message, get a particular emotion across.  You become the pilot of the plane, the helmsman of the ship, and the reader joins other readers in being a passenger, going along with you on the journty.
That doesn't mean that every passenger gets the same feeling, the same experience out of the journey.  As the person guiding the journey, you only are responsible for getting the passenger to the destination, not to whether or not they see all the sights, get motion sickness, leave the craft early or unexpectedly, or just decided they don't like how or where you are guiding them.
By its nature, storytelling is a craft, not a science.  Certainly not a surgical technique or mechanical construct.  It may be a path to a predictable end, but that doesn't mean it is a simple, easy or comfortable one.  I would point out that bad things do happen to beloved characters in stories, even if they aren't the main character.  In Harry Potter's sage, we wind up with one less Weasley Twin than when we started.  Harry loses his godfather, the only real parent he ever knew who loved him unconditionally.  Dumbledor is killed before Harry's eyes by one of his own teachers.  There are all kinds of bumps and bruises, broken bones, painful afflictions, magical curses and traps that Harry and company are subjected to along the way.  If a reader simply expects a character to breeze through a story, untouched, unaffected, unharmed and most importantly unchanged in some way... I think that reader may be deluding themselves. 
Even the Bible shows that your heroes go through hell, suffer losses, face the "outrageous slings and arrows" before they achieve greatness.  And I would point out that even then, it doesn't always end well.  Noah became a drunk, Jonah was widely ignored, John the Baptist was beheaded because he wouldn't get with a chick (he was from a celibate sect), and Moses never got to the promised land, despite leading the Israelites for 40 years in the wasteland.
So, should a story have warnings... Well, I'd say that as a way to lure readers, to tell them that what they may be reading might contain graphic violence, sexual situations, language inappropriate for young children, I can see tht.  If it is to tell readers that the story is a war story, or a drama, if it's about medical situations, or scienc fiction, has fantasy elements (magic, supernatural. etc.,) involves animal characters, is a political thriller, a crime and punishment story, the list goes on and on; yeah, I could get beind labeling a story like that.
But warning that a story has a "bad ending" or leads to a place of sadness rather than victory, success, happiness, a "good ending" per se?  Nope, can't see that.  Might as well tell the director how you want the play or movie to go.  Might as well tell the musician how to write and perform the song.  If you feel something bad because of a story, you'll just have to deal with it.  You get out of any work of art what you bring to it.  Some meanings and feelings from such artistic expression are often dominant and overpowering.  In which case, the person leading that journey has stirred you in ways he intended.  But it is still in the eye of the beholder if something is beautiful, powerful, evocative and meaningful.
Let the reader beware.  Words are stronger than sometimes you believe.  And you might run headlong into some words that you never saw coming.  Watch this space.

I have thought on this question all weekend before deciding then I saw the link from D'Artagnon and read the article to see if I needed to revise my stance. My stance is the same the flag does not need black and brown added to represent people of color since none of the colors on the rainbow are there to represent any race. They have not been left out.
I feel that if Black and brown are added then white needs to be added as well if we are going to start representing races. I prefer the flag as is with race not being a part of it. More people need to read the origin of the flag and the meanings attached to the colors.
Jeikor

I don't usually write warnings at the beginning of a book about the content. There are exceptions, my recent book Refugee is set in the present day, includes real places and organisations, so I added something at the start to say - This is a work of fiction, any resemblance etc.
Concerning a different point of view about warnings, I received this comment on another story:
I hate stories with bad endings. I am sorry, but I have enough of that in real life. I read these stories to escape real life. Now, with this ending, I feel depraved and cheated... And you, man, should post a warning that this story will end badly and sensitive readers like me should not read it.
I don't agree with the comment, because including a warning that this story does not have a happy ending, spoils the book, It's real life drama. I am, however, not so arrogant as to be unsympathetic to the point of view of that reader, but I really don't see a way to address his/her issue.
How would you deal with this? 
What do you think?
 

There are circumstances in which a warning or notation is required. Such stating the story is highly graphic in nature (sexually, or violence or both) or to let the reader know that the story is fiction and that some of the content may resemble real people, places or organizations etc.
However, a warning or notation that a story is going to end badly, does not seem logical to me. What makes for a good book/story? To me that is how the story evolves and what plot twists may or may not appear. The roller coaster journey of emotions that are evoked. Stories in many ways are like life, you never know what is going to happen or how things will turn out until it is done.
I am not a fan of stories with sad endings, I seriously doubt anyone is. But it is what it is. I do not judge a story by if the ending is a happy one or a sad one, but rather the journey I took in reading it. It is possible to enjoy a story but hate the ending.
Under normal circumstances, if the story was an actual published book, he could have sought out book reviews before deciding to read the book. (risking spoilers in the process) That is not something that is possible with stories that are posted to sites like Castle Roland. Most of the stories hosted have teasers about the story. So to the reader who complained about hating stories with bad endings and feeling deprived and cheated, I say caveat emptor, let the buyer beware.

I had no idea they were those who wish to change the LBTGQ flag. I personaly think it is just fine as it is. You would be hard pressed to find anyone that dose not know the flag as it is. It works and if it works do not try and fix it.

As much as I understand and respect the idea of inclusion, equality and reject racism, I think that changing the flag is wrong.  I get the feelings of those who believe WE have left our brothers of other colors behind, but WE haven't.  The rainbow flag already represents them, it already includes them.  Keep the symbol, just keep our awareness of all those who aren't white, male, Americans but are also Lesbian, and Gay, and Bisexual, and Trans, and Questioning.  It's already a symbol bigger than those who raise it high, shelter under it, and fight for all of us wearing it.
Keep the flag, keep the fight, and keep the truth.  Let's not make this racist.  Let's make it human.

As much as I understand and respect the idea of inclusion, equality and reject racism, I think that changing the flag is wrong.  I get the feelings of those who believe WE have left our brothers of other colors behind, but WE haven't.  The rainbow flag already represents them, it already includes them.  Keep the symbol, just keep our awareness of all those who aren't white, male, Americans but are also Lesbian, and Gay, and Bisexual, and Trans, and Questioning.  It's already a symbol bigger than those who raise it high, shelter under it, and fight for all of us wearing it.
Keep the flag, keep the fight, and keep the truth.  Let's not make this racist.  Let's make it human.

I would love to get some opinions on the recent push to change the Rainbow flag. The Flag was created to represent the unity within the LGBTQ community almost 25 years ago. It has been flown proudly at Pride Celebrations across the globe, it has adorned LGBTQ home, It has been flown at rally and marches.
There is a push to add two color stripes to the top of the flag. Black and Brown. This has caused a firestorm of debate withing the community. The two new stripes are meant to represent those left behind in our struggle for equality, namely people of color. Equality for the LGBTQ has come a long way but members of the LGBTQ that are also People of Color, Latino, Asian, Middle easterm, etc still suffer from gross injustices. We have left them behind. 
 

The flag has proud history and should not be changed to satisfy the whims of a few.  We have not changed nation flags to  include colors representing various ethnic groups within a nation.  Can you imagine the uproar, not just from whites, but from all, if the red and white stripes became red, white, brown black and yellow.  Both flags the LBTGQ and the US represent all in walks of life of every ethnic backgrounds.  Do not demean them by making symbols of what they do not represent.  

So I read this a couple of weeks ago but totally forgot comment so you'll need to forgive me if I'm a bit fuzzy on the details but I thought "Educating Max" wa an excellent story and a thrilling introduction to the telepaths.  Max and Cameron are sweetness and light (together) but Max's darker side, his pain and anger bubbling uner the surface is intriguing and well conveyed.  Cameron's past (which I'm sure is going to revealed) suggestes a certain amount a heartbreak and torment and that's always an excellent hook for me as far as characters go.  I should say that Michael is one of my favourite side characters in the story so far and I do hope that he continues to appear.
As for the shadowy organization that seems intent on bringing the telepaths to heel I get the feeling that we'll be seeing a lot more of them in future.  Particularly as we now know where the the venerable Dr Stamos has wound up.
Great work D'Atagnon, I look forward to continuing the adventure in Canterbury.

i have a problem with this poll.  the only one of those i don't like is fan fic.  I find that writers of "fan fic" stories tend to take the characters into place the original authors didn't intend.  IF it is done with different characters, say in the setting of the story they emulate, that's fine.  But I would feel upset if someone hijacked my characters, even in sincerest appreciation, and just did with them as they pleased.  A lot of my chars have deep reasons why they do and act as they do.  Not all of those reasons are completely known in the stories yet (got to have something to reveal later *wink*).

i have a problem with this poll.  the only one of those i don't like is fan fic.  I find that writers of "fan fic" stories tend to take the characters into place the original authors didn't intend.  IF it is done with different characters, say in the setting of the story they emulate, that's fine.  But I would feel upset if someone hijacked my characters, even in sincerest appreciation, and just did with them as they pleased.  A lot of my chars have deep reasons why they do and act as they do.  Not all of those reasons are completely known in the stories yet (got to have something to reveal later *wink*).

i have a problem with this poll.  the only one of those i don't like is fan fic.  I find that writers of "fan fic" stories tend to take the characters into place the original authors didn't intend.  IF it is done with different characters, say in the setting of the story they emulate, that's fine.  But I would feel upset if someone hijacked my characters, even in sincerest appreciation, and just did with them as they pleased.  A lot of my chars have deep reasons why they do and act as they do.  Not all of those reasons are completely known in the stories yet (got to have something to reveal later *wink*).

I chose Fantasy because it is my very favorite but I also like Urban Fantasy as a close second (I see them as slightly related). Then comes action/ adventure and science fiction. But I have also found Romance and Coming of Age stories I like. Then last but not necessarily least is Arthur's Drummer Boy which is Historical Fiction that I wouldn't usually read.
So my genre that I would chose if it was available is a well-written story; the genre doesn't matter.

So who is thinking they are going to jump on this challenge.
I can see some super exciting adventures coming our way.
Don't forget only forum members will be able to read all the stories and vote so sign up if you haven't already.
I know of a couple authors that are blowing the cobwebs out from between their ears and sharpening their Pencils. (does anyone even use pencils anymore)

Dude!  I've been awaiting the continuation of this for less time than everyone else here but I'd wrestle anyone to the floor who'd believe I was the least eager.
First off, it's a nice idea to switch between the perspectives of the woofers for the battle and one that works really well in keeping track of events as they unfold. 
Nick is as charming and boistrous as ever and dare I say... even more dashing.   If he weren't narrating, the end of his section would have me screaming at you for a continuation to this right this moment!  With Sven's brief section, you've confirmed him as one of my favourites of the new characters introduced in this story and with Magnus's you've made me appreciate and respect a character who only in the previous chapter I was beginning to hope would get his comeuppance sooner rather than later.  And of course Cody, the keeper of this story, well - he just continues to be as endearing as ever.
Of the expanded bestiary you've introduced here - the squid-bears (Bearthulus???) may very well be featuring in my nightmares soon... so yeah... thanks for that!
Really though a thrilling well paced chapter that kept me on edge as I felt every bite, scratch and cut of the hybrid blade.  Thannk you for this @D'Artagnon, a thoroughly worthy addition to a gripping story.  Now stop reading this comment and get that next chapter finished .

In a bit of a twist, the Garou kids each take a spot in the light during this chapter.  They each get to voice their own point of view in what is certainly a pivotal moment in their combined stories.  There are moments of bravery, close calls, and well, if you want to know more, you'll just have to read!   Riposte: Werewolves  Chapter K - Battle of the Y: Children of the Moon   is next!
 
Do you smell something burning?

In a bit of a twist, the Garou kids each take a spot in the light during this chapter.  They each get to voice their own point of view in what is certainly a pivotal moment in their combined stories.  There are moments of bravery, close calls, and well, if you want to know more, you'll just have to read!   Riposte: Werewolves  Chapter K - Battle of the Y: Children of the Moon   is next!
 
Do you smell something burning?

D'Artagnon,
.    Wow ! I'm so enjoying your crossover stories . I love both the changelings & woofers here , Even though I've always been a vampire fan myself. The Good vs Evil here being build up like a multilayered Apple strudel with all these great characters is making me hungry for more and more .  Keep up the great work & happy holidays to you too,
.        John C 

Thank you @D'Artagnon  I'm glad that you enjoyed this chapter and the story as a whole.  There is much more to come and the end is never really the end, it's just the point where that particular story needs to rest.
Some new questions that you've picked up on - most of which will find answers in the next couple of issues the others... well you know by now that I like to keep some of them dangling in the stream like baited hooks.
Your kind words are, as ever, very much appreciated.  I'm never sure if anyone is actually reading, so your comments make it worthwhile

I am expressly not going to post any spoilers in this brief review.  I will say this; another writer friend of mine often says "there aren't always happy endings."  And while this story still leaves shadows over future issues, there is some hope to it.  And you wrote it in grand fashion, using a combination of internal pacing, illustrious word choice and mood that enhanced the overall story.  You have quite a way of tugging at heart strings, sir.  Well played.
The ending had me gasping in tears.  Poor Taki.  Something like this often completely changes someone. I mean the lesson is obviously that you should listen to your instincts and the warnings of your friends and elders before leaping into something you know nothing about, but the cost...
I am glad at least that Toby gets a second chance.  He's shown he's far nobler than his upbringing.  Pappa John showed considerable mercy.  I just wonder what the repercussions of Toby living now in Halpin Hope will be.  And will he and Taki remain friends (and maybe more, since I sense both of them had been leaning that way towards each other) after all of this.
Again, well played.  Loved the chapter and the story and the characters.  Here's hoping there is more to come.  I fear our little island has great troubles ahead of it.  And I think we're all pulling for the little guys in what is looking like a massive and still growing drama.  Thank you for sharing this with us.

Yep... Sorrynotsorry.
@D'Artagnon When I first saw the email with your comments I actually thought 'Oh no! Did I go too far?' and then thankfully I read the rest of your post. haha.  Two of my most beloved authors Patrick Ness and Andrew Smith are masters at making me scream at the book about how unfair or not cool some route they took was and I love them for it, so I thank you very much for your reaction there! lol.
@Jeikor Maybe we are... as I work my through his writing on CR (currently on Educating Alex) I can see certain notes that we both like to hit.  So if not kin, we're in the same band certainly.  Although after this story ends he may ask me to leave, lol.
Thank you both for your kind words.  I was very unsure how this chapter would go down but your reactions have made it worth the anxiety,