Author Topic: Skin Game Predict-a-thon. [All the latest Spoilers permitted and encouraged]  (Read 63629 times)

Offline Fangz

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1. We have been told that Nicodemus has a very specific target in mind, ostensibly kept in the Labyrinth of Daedalus.  What is Nic trying to get his hands on and why?

It's probably actually a trick: he's trying to entrap Harry, to get an edge on Mab, and perhaps the keys to Demonreach. But to be convincing to Harry, he'd probably say something dramatic, like, oh, the soul of Judas Iscariot, or something.

2. Nicodemus apparently called in a marker from Mab to get Harry on the team.  Does he have a specific plan for using Harry or did Mab twist his request?  Which of Harry's capabilities will he admit to needing, and (given that this is Nicodemus after all), which abilities is he scheming for Harry to use?

He knew Dresden would be sent. He needs Dresden to diiiiieeeee...

3. Jim has mentioned that the book will be "Ocean's Eleven".  Who else did Nicodemus recruit?  How will they interact with Harry?

Gang of newcomer mortals who have no idea what they are getting into (probably toting coins, but not yet full denarians), to weaken and distract Harry. Shagnasty the skinwalker in disguise?

4. Harry's general method of operation is to call on his friends for help.  In this book, Harry is (initially) allowed one extra backup member on the crew.  Who will it be?  Which of Harry's other allies will "interfere" before the plot is over?  9/10/13 an interview was published that answers the first half of this question.

We already know Murphy is in it. Molly and Sanya will probably get involved.

5. This is a Denarian book, so (unlike the last "end of the world" showdown), the Swords will almost certainly be present.  In fact, there have been various hints...  Which Sword wielders will appear in the next book and how will their interference/help affect the plot?

Sanya, Michael out for one last job.

6. Mab is apparently against Nicodemus succeeding in this heist.  In the Cold Days, we found that Mab had complex reasons for wanting Harry to kill Maeve.  What are Mab's reasons in this book?  Is it simple thwarting or is there something deeper?

Mab owes Nic one, and Mab always answer her debts. Probably that simple, really. Mab distrusts Nic and suspects Nemesis infection, so sending Harry is one way to be sure - and to deal with it, if necessary. Mab also has possibly made a promise to the parasite to protect it, so maybe this is a way to get around this deal by some kind of quantum faeconomics.

7. At the end of Cold Days, Harry needs to stay on the island to keep his growing headaches at bay.  The start of Skin Games implies that those headaches will need to be resolved by the end of the book.  Who or what is causing those headaches, and how will the whole thing get resolved by the end of the book?

Molly eats it.

8.  One of the key components of the "Ocean's Eleven" movie is that there is a final twist/reveal.  Given that we've got Nicodemus, Harry, Mab, and potentially Hades (and who knows who else) all trying to get the better of each other, if there's one thing you can count on it's some sort of last minute quintuple-cross.  What will be the nature of the twist and how will it all fall out?

Shagnasty reappears and has his own agenda. Demonreach suffers a partial prison break. Something very nasty is released. Molly will have to accept her power to prevent total destruction.

9.  (Extra Credit) There are many WAG ("Wild A$$ Guess") theories on the boards, some crazier than others.  Write up to three WAG theories (or make up your own) you believe are correct that will be confirmed (or at least have evidence in favor of) in Skin Games.

MacAnally is Merlin.
Karrin Murphy is infected with Nemesis.

10. (Extra Credit) This is that "free form" question where you can come up with anything else you think will be in this book.  Specific quotes Harry might say (will he actually quote Ocean's Eleven?  The movie will have come out already in Harry's timeline)? Tidbits about the White Council? The fate of Molly? Write down anything you want.  Note that whatever you write must be specifically mentioned or hinted at in Skin Games in order to be worth credit.

*Why* Mab owes Nicodemus one will be a big deal in the book.
We might get some hints about why Mab and Titania had their falling out.
Nicodemus will die a heroic death.

Offline NotSoBoredReader

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1. We have been told that Nicodemus has a very specific target in mind, ostensibly kept in the Labyrinth of Daedalus.  What is Nic trying to get his hands on and why?
Well first off he is trying to get his hands on a christian artifact, because that seems to be where the denarians get their power from and where they are able to cause the most corruption. Main example being the shroud. Most likely he is after the holy grail because it would make a powerful focus in a spell if it contained the blood on an innocent. That and it probably has loads of other useful possibilities.

Nick is after a certain item, but once he gets into the vault hes going to grab everything that's not nailed to the floor.

2. Nicodemus apparently called in a marker from Mab to get Harry on the team.  Does he have a specific plan for using Harry or did Mab twist his request?  Which of Harry's capabilities will he admit to needing, and (given that this is Nicodemus after all), which abilities is he scheming for Harry to use?
He has a specific plan for harry which he is vital for, most likely it involves harry using soulfire. He has a secondary plan for when harry has outlived his usefulness. He doesn't directly try to kill harry, but puts him in a situation in which he will most likely perish. He has to do it this way because otherwise he cant kill harry without incurring Mabs wrath. Nick wants harry dead hes become far to much trouble to let live.

3. Jim has mentioned that the book will be "Ocean's Eleven".  Who else did Nicodemus recruit?  How will they interact with Harry?
-Mavra - amused and condescending
-The skin walker from turn coat - openly aggressive and will mention feasting upon him at last once.
- other denarians - like denarians so crazy
-eldest gruff - warm and friendly
-fix -more openly hostile than everyone else
I don't believe there will be many to the team, mainly because this is a heist not an invasion.

4. Harry's general method of operation is to call on his friends for help.  In this book, Harry is (initially) allowed one extra backup member on the crew.  Who will it be?  Which of Harry's other allies will "interfere" before the plot is over? 

I would like to say it is Kincaid because he proved in turn coat that he can take out denarians more easily than Harry can. Also if we want to get technical about it, he still owe harry a solid, because he didn't successfully kill the winter knight. If harry has to fight his way out of a group of denarians Kincaid would be the person to have at his back. Also I think there is some early references to him being like part demon or something so that would help in the underworld.


5. This is a Denarian book, so (unlike the last "end of the world" showdown), the Swords will almost certainly be present.  In fact, there have been various hints...  Which Sword wielders will appear in the next book and how will their interference/help affect the plot?

Sanya will turn up and die, but before he dies he will fight beside an angel and gain faith which will make him more powerful and let him go out in a blaze of glory. also the angel will reefer to his as the troublesome child.
Murphy will turn up but when she goes to try weld the sword it will burn her. The sword will burn her because she has changed she isnt the fundamentally good person she used to be. shown by her attempt to take violent action against the kids in Ghost story. The knights job is to save the denarians not to kill them. Murphy is all about the killing these days.
Michael comes along and picks up the sword Murphy drops, but doesnt draw it. Michael shows on multiple occasions that his faith is his greatest power. He is simply going to pray and evil will flee before him. I believe he is capable of this because in turn coat he removes the mental block (MAB) puts in place with prayer. Also by not actually drawing the sword he doesn't come out of retirement so he still has the extra protection from the supernatural.

6. Mab is apparently against Nicodemus succeeding in this heist.  In the Cold Days, we found that Mab had complex reasons for wanting Harry to kill Maeve.  What are Mab's reasons in this book?  Is it simple thwarting or is there something deeper?
Mab owes uriel a favor so she is helping Nick to to settle her debt with him she is double crossing him to settle her debt with uriel and she is getting the item for herself because that's just what mab does.

7. At the end of Cold Days, Harry needs to stay on the island to keep his growing headaches at bay.  The start of Skin Games implies that those headaches will need to be resolved by the end of the book.  Who or what is causing those headaches, and how will the whole thing get resolved by the end of the book?
The headaches are cause by lash who is infected by the outsiders. All of the denarians angels are infected that's why they fell from grace in the first place. unlike weaker beings, they still retain most of their self control except lash was injured and the outsider took over. So now harry has an outside crontrolled lash in his head. This is also why lash changed, not because harry gave her a name but because she was infected with an outsider and that allowed her to change and go against her purpose.

To fix the problem Harry will pick up the coin allowing the shadow of lash to be fully restored, then maybe molly or someone gets her out.

8.  One of the key components of the "Ocean's Eleven" movie is that there is a final twist/reveal.  Given that we've got Nicodemus, Harry, Mab, and potentially Hades (and who knows who else) all trying to get the better of each other, if there's one thing you can count on it's some sort of last minute quintuple-cross.  What will be the nature of the twist and how will it all fall out?

Murphy will die because I don't like Murphy which I know will upset loads of people. The entire heist is just a diversion to keep harry occupied while he does something in Chicago. Harry will realize hes been trick actually steal the item which was his wild goose chase and use it against nick. 


9.  (Extra Credit) There are many WAG ("Wild A$$ Guess") theories on the boards, some crazier than others.  Write up to three WAG theories (or make up your own) you believe are correct that will be confirmed (or at least have evidence in favor of) in Skin Games.

Little Harry is Arthur reborn and Maggie is his Merlin. Little Harry and Maggie both have magic which will be proven by them having mental conversations like harry used to when he was younger. both Little Harry and Maggie will wield swords and they will be the greatest knights ever. but you will only find out they have magic this book.

Murphy is infected with an outsider and has been for awhile. I believe this because Murphy is all about justice and the right thing except she sleeps with kincaid a rather likable but evil dude. This show a conflict of character, and her threatening to take out the kids in GS and her not trusting Harry and her constant abuse of pills and booze and the fact that her mind has been messed with quite a few times.

Harry has gained the ability to talk to ghost since he was one in ghost story.
   

10. (Extra Credit) This is that "free form" question where you can come up with anything else you think will be in this book.  Specific quotes Harry might say (will he actually quote Ocean's Eleven?  The movie will have come out already in Harry's timeline)? Tidbits about the White Council? The fate of Molly? Write down anything you want.  Note that whatever you write must be specifically mentioned or hinted at in Skin Games in order to be worth credit.

Harry will sing johnny cash
" I fell in to a burning ring of fire"

After leaving Mab and talking to Nick harry will go to burger king cause he hasn't been in a year. He will most likely quote tony stark at this stage. "there are two things i want to do" blah blah blah and an american cheese burger.

I think you will get to see some more of the faces of Mab and santa and oden. meaning the greek gods will turn out to be them in another form 


Offline NickelobLight

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1. Gabriel's trumpet. Nic is going to try to bring about the apocalypse as directly as possible.
2. To get Harry to release a specific prisoner. Maybe a Titan.
3. Denarians, a rakoshi, (Hindu mythology, they were mentioned in GS).
4. Either Elaine or Ebeneezer. It'll be someone out of left field, (like how the first person to see Harry alive was someone almost nobody expected, Andi).
5. Nothing tricky. It'll be Sanya, who saves Harry somehow. Daniel shows up with a sword too, & do something stupid.
6. Simple. She wants to get some getback for Arctis Tor.
7. Well, I think the obvious answer is that the parasite is responsible for the headaches. It'll be dealt with somehow out of left field. Maybe, since it's in Harry's brain, it needs intellect. It'll get transferred over to Bob somehow, who can handle it since he has so much more intellect, (he's in fact, nothing but intellect), that the parasite can feed off of him for eternity.
8. Harry will stay behind in the labyrinth in order to save someone.
9. WAG-we'll learn that Lea is directly related to Harry.
10. One sword will get unmade. My guess is the sword of faith. Daniel will do something stupid with it.

Offline raidem

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1. We have been told that Nicodemus has a very specific target in mind, ostensibly kept in the Labyrinth of Daedalus.  What is Nic trying to get his hands on and why?
Holy Grail (Chalice) and/or Denarian coins;
Location amended for updated hint: We now have a hint that prior to entering the NeverNevers highest security vault Nicodemus and friends must first break into Chicago's most secure vault.  I guess that it is the Federal Reserve Building in Chicago.  This would be the bank which Marcone utilizes to secure his belongings.  One must wonder what does he keep there.  Perhaps one item is Thorned Namshiel denarian aka Spiny Boy's coin.

2. Nicodemus apparently called in a marker from Mab to get Harry on the team.  Does he have a specific plan for using Harry or did Mab twist his request?  Which of Harry's capabilities will he admit to needing, and (given that this is Nicodemus after all), which abilities is he scheming for Harry to use?
Nicodemus either needs access to power from Winter and/or Soulfire in the attempt to break into the vault.  He may also need access to Demonreach island to access the underworld.  Nic hopes that Harry will kill some team members that have a Nemesis connection.  With Harry's brush with death, he is now a fulcrum for the underworld in addition to the Living.

3. Jim has mentioned that the book will be "Ocean's Eleven".  Who else did Nicodemus recruit?  How will they interact with Harry? Naagloshii, Shapeshifter, Denarians, Churchmice, BC Vampire.  Some will attempt to kill Harry.  One may assist him.  Most of the murder attempts will be in passing, trying to get Harry killed by protections on the vault, etc.

4. Harry's general method of operation is to call on his friends for help.  In this book, Harry is (initially) allowed one extra backup member on the crew.  Who will it be?  Which of Harry's other allies will "interfere" before the plot is over?  9/10/13 an interview was published that answers the first half of this question.  (edit:  Sort of)  Those that guessed what he said in that interview (at least partially) have been logged by the curators, but this will probably go down as some kind of extra credit or something, so keep Predictin!  (edit:  And things might not be binary simple...)-Serack
Well, we already know Harry is choosing Murphy.  I think Molly, Sarissa, Fix, Thomas, Mouse will assist Harry near the end.  Maybe we will even see Cat Sith again.

5. This is a Denarian book, so (unlike the last "end of the world" showdown), the Swords will almost certainly be present.  In fact, there have been various hints...  Which Sword wielders will appear in the next book and how will their interference/help affect the plot?
Sanya, Murphy, Daniel.  Team Heaven will win one with one of the Knights convincing a Host to give up their coin. 

6. Mab is apparently against Nicodemus succeeding in this heist.  In the Cold Days, we found that Mab had complex reasons for wanting Harry to kill Maeve.  What are Mab's reasons in this book?  Is it simple thwarting or is there something deeper?
Strike at Nicodemus for violating the Accords in Small Favor.  Assist Anduriel in getting rid of Nicodemus and/or obtaining another Host.

7. At the end of Cold Days, Harry needs to stay on the island to keep his growing headaches at bay.  The start of Skin Games implies that those headaches will need to be resolved by the end of the book.  Who or what is causing those headaches, and how will the whole thing get resolved by the end of the book?
A combination of primarily Lash but she is tainted with Outsider infection when she took the bullet for Harry.  Harry's continued use of Soulfire is empowering the Lash essence, helping it grow but also getting it to cause more harmful headaches et cetera.  She will find a home in a certain Nickle Harry finds placed somewhere in by Odin.

8.  One of the key components of the "Ocean's Eleven" movie is that there is a final twist/reveal.  Given that we've got Nicodemus, Harry, Mab, and potentially Hades (and who knows who else) all trying to get the better of each other, if there's one thing you can count on it's some sort of last minute quintuple-cross.  What will be the nature of the twist and how will it all fall out?
Harry fails.  Molly, Sarissa save the day.  Nicodemus will violate the agreement he made with Mab when she negotiated an explicit truce until such time that the mission is complete.  Mab will pitch in an assist.

9.  (Extra Credit) There are many WAG ("Wild A$$ Guess") theories on the boards, some crazier than others.  Write up to three WAG theories (or make up your own) you believe are correct that will be confirmed (or at least have evidence in favor of) in Skin Games.
1) Ferro banks at Hades vault.
2) Cerberus likes Harry (senses Mouse)
3) Underworld is using Harry to amputate Nemesis infection

10. (Extra Credit) This is that "free form" question where you can come up with anything else you think will be in this book.  Specific quotes Harry might say (will he actually quote Ocean's Eleven?  The movie will have come out already in Harry's timeline)? Tidbits about the White Council? The fate of Molly? Write down anything you want.  Note that whatever you write must be specifically mentioned or hinted at in Skin Games in order to be worth credit.
Merlin wants to carry out Doom on Harry, for Molly's abuse of the Laws.  WC concedes they can't bring Molly to justice but will try with Harry.  Molly and/or Mab might have a problem with that.
Harry promises Michael that he will save Molly from Winter Mantle at some point.
« Last Edit: February 16, 2014, 05:15:25 PM by raidem »
"That's it???  It's really that simple? 
LIES!  Damn lies!  It's a cover up!
WOJ: http://www.paranetonline.com/index.php/topic,21772.0.html

Offline ellarite

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1.  We have been told that Nicodemus has a very specific target in mind, ostensibly kept in the Labyrinth of Daedalus.  What is Nic trying to get his hands on and why?

-   He’s after the shroud of turin.  He believes that Marcone has built a new labyrinth in Italy and had the shroud placed in it.
-   He needs it to activate another type of curse plague.

2. Nicodemus apparently called in a marker from Mab to get Harry on the team.  Does he have a specific plan for using Harry or did Mab twist his request?  Which of Harry's capabilities will he admit to needing, and (given that this is Nicodemus after all), which abilities is he scheming for Harry to use?
   
-   He plans to force Harry to play on his team.  That way, he can have some type of control over Harry.  If Harry has to work for Nic, then he is forbidden from working against him.

-   I don’t think that he needs Harry for any specific skill.  He’s going to use Harry as a shield to prevent Harry’s friends from attacking his team.

3.   Jim has mentioned that the book will be "Ocean's Eleven".  Who else did Nicodemus recruit?  How will they interact with Harry?

-   Nic recruited his daughter:  Deidre. (sp)
-   He may also use the Vagassi Family (sp:  I think they had issues with Marcone in the past.)
-   I’m going to throw in Ms. Demeter as well.  (I think that he’ll convince her that her daughter is alive and the shroud would save her.)
-            Lara Raith and the White Court of Vampires (to keep Harry from using Thomas)

4.   Harry's general method of operation is to call on his friends for help.  In this book, Harry is (initially) allowed one extra backup member on the crew.  Who will it be?  Which of Harry's other allies will "interfere" before the plot is over?  9/10/13 an interview was published that answers the first half of this question.  (edit:  Sort of)  Those that guessed what he said in that interview (at least partially) have been logged by the curators, but this will probably go down as some kind of extra credit or something, so keep Predictin!  (edit:  And things might not be binary simple...)-Serack-   
-   
        Harry hired Kincaid as his assistant.  However, Ivy will interfere before the end of the plot.

5. This is a Denarian book, so (unlike the last "end of the world" showdown), the Swords will almost certainly be present.  In fact, there have been various hints...  Which Sword wielders will appear in the next book and how will their interference/help affect the plot?
-   
-   Sanya, Murphy and Michael.
-   Michael and Murphy may have trust issues when it comes to Harry.  However, Sanya will convince them that they need to support Harry.


-   6. Mab is apparently against Nicodemus succeeding in this heist.  In the Cold Days, we found that Mab had complex reasons for wanting Harry to kill Maeve.  What are Mab's reasons in this book?  Is it simple thwarting or is there something deeper?
-   
-   Mab is using Harry.  She’s going to swoop in later and help save the day, thereby indebting both the white council and the sword weilders (Catholic church) to her for later use when she needs it.

7. At the end of Cold Days, Harry needs to stay on the island to keep his growing headaches at bay.  The start of Skin Games implies that those headaches will need to be resolved by the end of the book.  Who or what is causing those headaches, and how will the whole thing get resolved by the end of the book?-   
-   I think that it’s a shadow of Lash that’s causing the headaches.  I think that Harry will get stabbed by one of the swords which would release (kill) her shadow and clear his head.

8.  One of the key components of the "Ocean's Eleven" movie is that there is a final twist/reveal.  Given that we've got Nicodemus, Harry, Mab, and potentially Hades (and who knows who else) all trying to get the better of each other, if there's one thing you can count on it's some sort of last minute quintuple-cross.  What will be the nature of the twist and how will it all fall out?
-   
-   The triple cross would be performed by Mab herself.  Once Nic obtains the shroud and tries to kill Harry (Winter Knight) Mab would see it as an act of war.  She would then send in the Sidhe Army to help neutralize Nic.

9.  (Extra Credit) There are many WAG ("Wild A$$ Guess") theories on the boards, some crazier than others.  Write up to three WAG theories (or make up your own) you believe are correct that will be confirmed (or at least have evidence in favor of) in Skin Games.-   
-   
              1)  Charity Carpenter will help Nic because she wants Harry dead for what happened to Molly.  She will act out of vengeance and pain.  Nic will make her believe that he can kill Harry and return Molly home.
-   
-   2)  Uriel will appear with a group of angels to help defeat Nic and his crew.
-   
-   3)  The whole heist is a red – herring.  The real mission of Nic is to trap Marcone and take over his business as revenge for denying him access to the shroud in the first place.

10. (Extra Credit) This is that "free form" question where you can come up with anything else you think will be in this book.  Specific quotes Harry might say (will he actually quote Ocean's Eleven?  The movie will have come out already in Harry's timeline)? Tidbits about the White Council? The fate of Molly? Write down anything you want.  Note that whatever you write must be specifically mentioned or hinted at in Skin Games in order to be worth credit.

1)    Harry will make a comment about going down a rabbit hole.
2)   Harry will tell Hades that he’s “taller than he is on tv.”
3)   Harry will turn to Deidre and say, “love the hair.”


Offline Raptor

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Without reading the previous 6 pages ('cuz who has time for that!?)

1. We have been told that Nicodemus has a very specific target in mind, ostensibly kept in the Labyrinth of Daedalus.  What is Nic trying to get his hands on and why?

I'm going to go with Pandora's Box. As of now, the only Sword with a wielder is Esperacchius (The Sword of Hope). Inside of Pandora's Box is Elpis, the spirit of Hope. I'm pretty sure that Nick would like to take one of the swords out of play permanently, and capturing/destroying the spirit of Hope, might do that for The Sword of Hope.

2. Nicodemus apparently called in a marker from Mab to get Harry on the team.  Does he have a specific plan for using Harry or did Mab twist his request?  Which of Harry's capabilities will he admit to needing, and (given that this is Nicodemus after all), which abilities is he scheming for Harry to use?


I'll agree, I think that Harry being "Mostly Dead" will be necessary to go down below. But, it could also be that Thorned Namshiel is out of play (or playing for The Other team) and they need somebody who can work forces, and Harry fits the bill.

3. Jim has mentioned that the book will be "Ocean's Eleven".  Who else did Nicodemus recruit?  How will they interact with Harry?

Well, we know the remaining Church Mouse will be involved. I think I might go out on a limb and say that she's the new bearer of Lasciel's coin.


4. Harry's general method of operation is to call on his friends for help.  In this book, Harry is (initially) allowed one extra backup member on the crew.  Who will it be?  Which of Harry's other allies will "interfere" before the plot is over?  9/10/13 an interview was published that answers the first half of this question. 

Okay, so we know who Harry's backup is... But there's going to be swerves. I was really hoping Ivy would turn up in this book. Not only because The Archive has roots going back to the Classical Period, but also because she and Kincaid have a big honkin' score to settle with Nick... Which could threaten The Archive's neutrality and seriously unbalance things. Which would be fun.

As for additional help, we'll see Mouse, and I REALLY want to see him and Cerberus (either with a hilarious 4-headed "doggy hello" or an epic throw-down).


5. This is a Denarian book, so (unlike the last "end of the world" showdown), the Swords will almost certainly be present.  In fact, there have been various hints...  Which Sword wielders will appear in the next book and how will their interference/help affect the plot?

Not sure. We've heard that Michael is coming off the bench. I don't think he takes the sword back up though. I'll go out on another limb and say that Thomas takes up a Sword. My instinct here is that it will be Hope (given that Thomas has used sabers in the past, and his character seems to embody hope and has fought despair) which is depressing because I really like Sanya.


6. Mab is apparently against Nicodemus succeeding in this heist.  In the Cold Days, we found that Mab had complex reasons for wanting Harry to kill Maeve.  What are Mab's reasons in this book?  Is it simple thwarting or is there something deeper?

Mab's schemes have schemes. Thwarting is probably an end, but also I have a feeling that whatever Nick is after would upset the balance enough that she can't allow him to get away with it. Also, there's revenge for the attack on Arctis Tor. She's probably counting on Harry's distrust of Nick, and his skills as an investigator to root out whoever the traitor/attacker is, and deliver frosty vengeance.

Not to mention its a further test/training for Harry. He's going to have to work with people he'd rather kill, and possibly kill people he'd rather work with. That works to Mab's ends

7. At the end of Cold Days, Harry needs to stay on the island to keep his growing headaches at bay.  The start of Skin Games implies that those headaches will need to be resolved by the end of the book.  Who or what is causing those headaches, and how will the whole thing get resolved by the end of the book?

I'm going to go with my theory of The Parasite is causing the headaches. The Parasite is Lash, and Molly performs an emergency Lash-ectomy. From there, Lash gets a new home in "Persephone" (Helen Beckit's daughter). Lash comes out and turns the tide against Nick, throwing down with Lasciel's new wielder in an epic cat-fight.

8.  One of the key components of the "Ocean's Eleven" movie is that there is a final twist/reveal.  Given that we've got Nicodemus, Harry, Mab, and potentially Hades (and who knows who else) all trying to get the better of each other, if there's one thing you can count on it's some sort of last minute quintuple-cross.  What will be the nature of the twist and how will it all fall out?

Welp, I'm going to guess that Nick is going to try to set Harry/Mab up as patsies for the robbery. Also, like I said above, I think that Lasciel is going to reappear in this book with a backstab of Harry. Also, in a fun turn of fate, I think Nick is going to go back to the well and offer Daniel a coin as one final dig at Michael/Molly/Harry... And he's going to take it after Murph/Michael/Harry refuse to let him take up Amorracchius.

Offline Kael Tucker

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1.   We have been told that Nicodemus has a very specific target in mind, ostensibly kept in the Labyrinth of Daedalus.  What is Nic trying to get his hands on and why?
    It was originally a prison for the Minatore, slain by Theseus... perhaps, the search is for the remains of the beast... or there is some token or object Hidden by  Poseidon and is still protected by a modern version of the beast. No matter what, what ever they are trying to get their hands on, it is sure to have some type of power, either something that has an apocalyptic tone... or perhaps in the center will be the only tree that still grows Ambrosia ( one bite turns you into cures any disease, two makes you immortal, three or more makes you a greek god )

2.   Nicodemus apparently called in a marker from Mab to get Harry on the team.  Does he have a specific plan for using Harry or did Mab twist his request?  Which of Harry's capabilities will he admit to needing, and (given that this is Nicodemus after all), which abilities is he scheming for Harry to use?
  Nic is one of a few enemies of Harry’s that respect him. Overall, they are going to be moving through a giant maze with puzzles and traps. Harry is fast on his feet, good detective, and can punch holes in walls if nessacerry…. I would want him there… but you know Nic,  he will probably have two other reasons other than that.

3. Jim has mentioned that the book will be "Ocean's Eleven".  Who else did Nicodemus recruit?  How will they interact with Harry?

3.   Harry's general method of operation is to call on his friends for help.  In this book, Harry is (initially) allowed one extra backup member on the crew.  Who will it be?  Which of Harry's other allies will "interfere" before the plot is over?  9/10/13 an interview was published that answers the first half of this question.  (edit:  Sort of)  Those that guessed what he said in that interview (at least partially) have been logged by the curators, but this will probably go down as some kind of extra credit or something, so keep Predictin!  (edit:  And things might not be binary simple...)-Serack

Well, Harry doesn’t know any greek gods, but considering the company he is keeping I would hope that he wouldn’t choose any “plain folk” like Murphy.  If I were a betting man, it would be one of three.
Billy (will)- not my top pick, but mouse is watching Little Maggie and I can’t see Harry pulling him away from that. But Life is always easier when you have a wolf.

Thomas- supernaturally strong and loyal. Fought against the denarians before, could do a whole lot worse.
Last on my list but my No.1 draft pick… Sasha. When Surrounded by demons, good to have your own guardian angel.

Mr. Butcher will probably throw us a curve ball and do something wacky like have him borrow Bob and have him in ride along mode.

5. This is a Denarian book, so (unlike the last "end of the world" showdown), the Swords will almost certainly be present.  In fact, there have been various hints...  Which Sword wielders will appear in the next book and how will their interference/help affect the plot?
  Being the only Knight still in action, it is a givin that Sasha will be popping in, I also believe that one of the other swords will be put into play… I believe that Murphy will be convinced to carry Shiro’s blade full time… It will either be Uriel, Sasha or circumstance that convinces her, but I think her sense of purpose will be made clearer to herself.

6. Mab is apparently against Nicodemus succeeding in this heist.  In the Cold Days, we found that Mab had complex reasons for wanting Harry to kill Maeve.  What are Mab's reasons in this book?  Is it simple thwarting or is there something deeper?
  I believe that the reason will be directly connected to the attack on  Arctis Tor that Harry stumbled on in “proven Guilty”.  During the battle preceeding Harry’s attack, I believe, Nic took something that belonged to queen Mab… something she is willing to trade for to get back.

7. At the end of Cold Days, Harry needs to stay on the island to keep his growing headaches at bay.  The start of Skin Games implies that those headaches will need to be resolved by the end of the book.  Who or what is causing those headaches, and how will the whole thing get resolved by the end of the book?
After going back through the series, the one weakness we share with Harry is that when he has the mind “whammy” put on him, we are blinded as well. We can only see it when he remembers, or discovers it himself.  The only thing we can do is work through the clues we are givin, and work through it.  Here is my suspect list… these are the only entities we know who have the ability to live in his head.
Margret – Harry’s mom is the least likely candidate, but a shadow version of her lives in his head, and has since birth. I would hope that after the Soul gaze that Harry and Thomas shared she would have gone away having served her purpose… but I think the shadow of Margret interacted with him once before ( the Lake House in “storm front” ) which means her shadow had more than One purpose in his head… pray it was benine.
The adversary – Middle of the road with this one… Mr. N could have infected Harry, but it would have to have been before “Cold Days” and though Harry is supposed to have power over the outsiders later, still not sure how or why he is going to get it… could be a by-product of being infected and fighting it off.
Lash-Lasciel – No1. Contender… Hands down. Lets start with what we know about their life together.  Harry had headaches for years, but they did not start really hitting him until he received the coin, and they kept getting stronger, even after she “fell on the sword” in the wraith deeps.  Lash tried to convince him to pick up the coin for years, and she knew that he would never willingly take up the coin.  I believe one of two things happened at the end of “white knight”
A)   Lash was acting in earnest at the end of the book, took he metaphysical bullet for Harry and MOST of her presence died when Harry’s brain overloaded in the deeps. I think that a lot of us (yes, I am including myself) forgot that she was more of a spiritual being. At the end of the book, Harry could still play Spanish guitar, which points to the fact that something must have been left in. Also you have to take in Harry’s healing ability. In the normal Human brain, when brain cells die they are completely gone forever… but as our favorite medical examiner likes to point out, Harry is not normal. If his brain can repair the portions that lash was living in, it stands to reason she may be able to rebuild herself using the strands of what was left. Growing in Harry’s mind until she is strong enough to take over.
B)   Her death was a sham, She was never in any real danger. She knew she was losing the battle for Harry’s soul, and she did not want to keep letting him use her like another Bob.  So she uses the  situation to her advantage. ALL of Harry’s information about “ brain damage” and her “death” comes from her at the end… She allows him to draw his own conclusion, and she hides deeper inside of him. Only giving him subliminal seeds of doubts and constant migranes, until an opportunity presents itself either to nudge him to the coin, or make him pay for rejecting her.
Hence the “female shadow” evident in “ghost story”,  She was punishing him by convincing him to commit suicide by hitman.

Either way, she was not expecting Mab to rescue him, and when she was discovered by the winter queen and demonreach she was put in an awkward situation and used her part in keeping Harry alive as a lever to keep them silent.

8.  One of the key components of the "Ocean's Eleven" movie is that there is a final twist/reveal.  Given that we've got Nicodemus, Harry, Mab, and potentially Hades (and who knows who else) all trying to get the better of each other, if there's one thing you can count on it's some sort of last minute quintuple-cross.  What will be the nature of the twist and how will it all fall out?  No clue, ask bob.
" I'm just a big hairy american winning machine"

Offline Jcarlson171

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1.   We have been told that Nicodemus has a very specific target in mind, ostensibly kept in the Labyrinth of Daedalus.  What is Nic trying to get his hands on and why?
     Since Nick is always after apocalyptic chaos I'll say either pandora's box or because he's scared of harry telling people how to kill him a new imortality item similar to the noose he has which hes hoping one will protect him from the others weakness


2.   Nicodemus apparently called in a marker from Mab to get Harry on the team.  Does he have a specific plan for using Harry or did Mab twist his request?  Which of Harry's capabilities will he admit to needing, and (given that this is Nicodemus after all), which abilities is he scheming for Harry to use?
Both. he wanted Harry but asked for something else so that Mab would think she was getting a better deal by making Harry do it. As for what he will admit to needing Harry's ability to find people he will need someone to get him into the maze who has gone into hiding and has a way of preventing the denarians from finding them. he wants Harry's wizard senses and battle skill he may even be counting on Harry bringing molly for delicate magic since his crew seems to be short one wizard type person now.

3. Jim has mentioned that the book will be "Ocean's Eleven".  Who else did Nicodemus recruit?  How will they interact with Harry?
No clue maybe Bianca maybe ferrovax

4. Harry's general method of operation is to call on his friends for help.  In this book, Harry is (initially) allowed one extra backup member on the crew.  Who will it be?  Which of Harry's other allies will "interfere" before the plot is over?  9/10/13 an interview was published that answers the first half of this question.
Interferrance will come in the form of Ivy who is still pissed at Nick and company and Kincaid will try to finish his contract since he owed Harry a favor and all

6. Mab is apparently against Nicodemus succeeding in this heist.  In the Cold Days, we found that Mab had complex reasons for wanting Harry to kill Maeve.  What are Mab's reasons in this book?  Is it simple thwarting or is there something deeper?

Since when has Mab ever come into a story with something simple? look at what shes already done just to get Harry to do the job. My guess is that along with whatever Nick is looking for there are a few tools that can kill immortals sitting in the vault. Considering shes tried to kill bob for knowing A way to kill immortals it really pisses her off that she has to help nick possibly come into possesion of a few.

8.  One of the key components of the "Ocean's Eleven" movie is that there is a final twist/reveal.  Given that we've got Nicodemus, Harry, Mab, and potentially Hades (and who knows who else) all trying to get the better of each other, if there's one thing you can count on it's some sort of last minute quintuple-cross.  What will be the nature of the twist and how will it all fall out?
Mother Winter uses an unravelling on whatever item nick is after therefore rendering in valueless and ending winters obligation in the heist since the agreement was that Mab would help nick get steal whatever it is for its power

9.  (Extra Credit) There are many WAG ("Wild A$$ Guess") theories on the boards, some crazier than others.  Write up to three WAG theories (or make up your own) you believe are correct that will be confirmed (or at least have evidence in favor of) in Skin Games.-
1) Ebenezar will end up using the blackstaff to do something and harry will discover that it is NOT Mother Winters walking stick since it doesnt resonate with winter
2) Murphy is going to pick up a coin which will convince sanya that she is going to follow his path eventually
3) one of the fallen is going to die Mab and Uriel will have a conversation about how well hey played this round. The death of the fallen will involve uriel unloading his power on the earth to finally balance the kidnapping done by the denarians in small favor


Offline ged28

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1.   We have been told that Nicodemus has a very specific target in mind, ostensibly kept in the Labyrinth of Daedalus.  What is Nic trying to get his hands on and why?
 Something destructive. He wont reveal what it is until they get there. It wont be outright obviously powerful something subtle and overlooked.


2.   Nicodemus apparently called in a marker from Mab to get Harry on the team.  Does he have a specific plan for using Harry or did Mab twist his request?  Which of Harry's capabilities will he admit to needing, and (given that this is Nicodemus after all), which abilities is he scheming for Harry to use?
He wants Harry because he has been dead. Im sure that would give him advantages in the underworld.

3. Jim has mentioned that the book will be "Ocean's Eleven".  Who else did Nicodemus recruit?  How will they interact with Harry?
Denarians, Murphy will be Harrys number 2, Fix maybe to keep the summer/winter balance, the hellhound, a vampire maybe mavra.

4. Harry's general method of operation is to call on his friends for help.  In this book, Harry is (initially) allowed one extra backup member on the crew.  Who will it be?  Which of Harry's other allies will "interfere" before the plot is over?  Murphy not sure.

6. Mab is apparently against Nicodemus succeeding in this heist.  In the Cold Days, we found that Mab had complex reasons for wanting Harry to kill Maeve.  What are Mab's reasons in this book?  Is it simple thwarting or is there something deeper?

She wants whatever is in the vault and to put one over on nick for the having the cheek to call in the marker like this. Also winter seem to be getting stronger, with the *winter knight* eliminating the red court, this would be a good way to continue this power play with a victory over the denarians.

8.  One of the key components of the "Ocean's Eleven" movie is that there is a final twist/reveal.  Given that we've got Nicodemus, Harry, Mab, and potentially Hades (and who knows who else) all trying to get the better of each other, if there's one thing you can count on it's some sort of last minute quintuple-cross.  What will be the nature of the twist and how will it all fall out?
Betrayal. Murphy uncertain with whats going on takes up the sword betrays harry and takes the item. Or mab betrays Harry after he betrays nick. Or maybe lash comes out at the wrong time and betrays harry to the denarians by incapacitating him at the wrong moment.


Offline johntfs

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Quote
1. We have been told that Nicodemus has a very specific target in mind, ostensibly kept in the Labyrinth of Daedalus.  What is Nic trying to get his hands on and why?

It's probably actually a trick: he's trying to entrap Harry, to get an edge on Mab, and perhaps the keys to Demonreach. But to be convincing to Harry, he'd probably say something dramatic, like, oh, the soul of Judas Iscariot, or something.

I'm pretty sure that Nic isn't going to say "the soul of Judas Iscariot" since he already possesses the soul of Judas Iscariot.  Since by all indications he, you know, is Judas Iscariot.

Offline Winston Smith

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Not related to the particular list of queries, but I hope Hade's isn't portrayed as some evil devil like figure. I mean, to the Ancient Greeks, the evillest god was Ares.

Offline Ineptwizard

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1.   We have been told that Nicodemus has a very specific target in mind, ostensibly kept in the Labyrinth of Daedalus.  What is Nic trying to get his hands on and why?
The last books have all been about change and rebirth. I think that might be the theme in this one as well. I think therefore that Dionysus/Bacchus/Elestrhrio (spelling) will be involved. Nic is probably after Dionysus's wand which holds a lot of power.
     

2.   Nicodemus apparently called in a marker from Mab to get Harry on the team.  Does he have a specific plan for using Harry or did Mab twist his request?  Which of Harry's capabilities will he admit to needing, and (given that this is Nicodemus after all), which abilities is he scheming for Harry to use?
Harry's resurrection will probably be part of it. Perhaps Nic is looking to trade Harry for the staff? Harry's Wil E Coytesque endurance is probably another reason...

3. Jim has mentioned that the book will be "Ocean's Eleven".  Who else did Nicodemus recruit?  How will they interact with Harry?
The few fellow fallen he trusts, and those who he deem replacable, which certainly include our favourite winter knight/train wreck. He's also bringing Miley Cyrus and her wrecking ball, the guy is after all eeevil..


4. Harry's general method of operation is to call on his friends for help.  In this book, Harry is (initially) allowed one extra backup member on the crew.  Who will it be?  Which of Harry's other allies will "interfere" before the plot is over?  9/10/13 an interview was published that answers the first half of this question.

5. This is a Denarian book, so (unlike the last "end of the world" showdown), the Swords will almost certainly be present.  In fact, there have been various hints...  Which Sword wielders will appear in the next book and how will their interference/help affect the plot?
I think that Sasha wil be a part of Harry's crew and that he will be traded against the staff of Dionysus.


6. Mab is apparently against Nicodemus succeeding in this heist.  In the Cold Days, we found that Mab had complex reasons for wanting Harry to kill Maeve.  What are Mab's reasons in this book?  Is it simple thwarting or is there something deeper?
Mab Knows that whereever Harry goes, things go boom.

8.  One of the key components of the "Ocean's Eleven" movie is that there is a final twist/reveal.  Given that we've got Nicodemus, Harry, Mab, and potentially Hades (and who knows who else) all trying to get the better of each other, if there's one thing you can count on it's some sort of last minute quintuple-cross.  What will be the nature of the twist and how will it all fall out?
Harry will need to trade Sasha for the staff, but Nic won't get the sword.


9.  (Extra Credit) There are many WAG ("Wild A$$ Guess") theories on the boards, some crazier than others.  Write up to three WAG theories (or make up your own) you believe are correct that will be confirmed (or at least have evidence in favor of) in Skin Games.-
1. Mister is really the mastermind behind everything.
2. The current Merlin's hatred towards Harry has something to do with unrequited love towards Harry's mother.
3. There will be three new knights.

Offline NeonOriginal

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1. Something to perhaps remove his noose, or render it useless? Maybe what he wants actually isn't in the vault and maybe he wants to put something in the vault... like Harry?
Or maybe he is after knowledge, maybe its something similar to Archives abilities.

2. Harry has always come out on top, barely, in all encounters with every enemy. This is due to his preparation, endurance, and amazing quick thinking. I don't think it is a magical ability Nic is looking for but the ability to asses a situation and find a solution relatively quickly. Or maybe the parasite is the key to opening the vault.

3. He probably recruited fellow Denarians, possibly BlackStaff McCoy.

4. Marcone, this reeks of something Marcone will be good at. I think Marcone will use one of the Swords as he has his own sense of justice and only does evil things to evil people.

5. Marcone will wield one. Murphy another, and Sanya of course.

6. Maybe Nic is grabbing a weapon that will harm the balance between the Outsiders and the Winter court.

7. The popular option seems to be Lach so I will try an ambiguous alternative. In the book it said that Mab struck a deal with The Parasite to keep him alive, wouldn't Lach want that anyway so she could use him, she wouldn't have any fun if he died. I don't think it's the adversary because Harry is apparently going to get killed by this parasite and that doesn't seem to be the adversays MO. So is the parasite feeding off of Harry's powers and possibly trying to ressurect itself from him? In all honesty I hope its a new player, something from within DR that wants out.

8. Many people are going with the Staff of Dionysus, which I don't know about. If it was talked about in the series I completely missed it. I think it is a weapon or device that can be used to unmake a sword. Maybe it is that Mab works behind the scenes to get Nic trapped in the vault or possibly the parasite. This may be done by Lach turning to the good side and helping seal him in.

9. 1. Marcone will be a Knight of the Cross.
2. The Pope is actually in league with Hades and the underworld.
3. Mac is actually the original Merlin from the future, or the past.
4. Micheal doesn't forgive Harry, comes into contact with a coin, and turns into a Denarian.

10. WAG quotes
1. Harry will make a quote about hell freezing over. This is guaranteed.
2. He will make a remark about being to Hell and back.
3. He will sing the burning ring of fire.
« Last Edit: November 30, 2013, 07:56:29 PM by NeonOriginal »

Offline biagiotti

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1.  Something to do with the black council. Payback for almost killing him. Why lash failed. Nothing to do with theft. Nic always seems to say he wants to do something but it turns out to have nothing to do with the orignal purpose.

2. Doesn't matter he always lies and soul fire or his ability over demons(outsiders)

3. Shagnasty
Cowl
Evil bob

4. Leah because not only can she withstand temptation but for some reason jim didn't involve her in cold days. A farie book where he saw just about every farie he has ever mentioned including friggin Santa Claus. Possibly molly so he can talk to her or help her.

5. Sanya will show up and die. And someone who they haven't met will take up a sword.

6. Probably repayment for arctis tor.
"Mab always repays her debts"

7. Lash and she will break free of the infection giving her life again for harry.

8. Sanyas ex will give up her coin saving the day.

9. A. Nic dies. B. Nic gives up coin and takes up a sword. C. Maggie Sr will make an appearance revealing something from harrys past.

10. "Go to hell"
"That is incredibly unfair"
Something from spiderman




Offline hassman

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1.   We have been told that Nicodemus has a very specific target in mind, ostensibly kept in the Labyrinth of Daedalus.  What is Nic trying to get his hands on and why?
Cerberus, because Cerberus was the Gatekeeper before Winter took over.  He wants to find out who has been infected
     

2.   Nicodemus apparently called in a marker from Mab to get Harry on the team.  Does he have a specific plan for using Harry or did Mab twist his request?  Which of Harry's capabilities will he admit to needing, and (given that this is Nicodemus after all), which abilities is he scheming for Harry to use?
Harry's aspect of chaos, and also the fact that to Nic he has an Achilles heel.

3. Jim has mentioned that the book will be "Ocean's Eleven".  Who else did Nicodemus recruit?  How will they interact with Harry?
Mostly red shirt denarians, the churchmouse, his daughter, Marcones new flunkie


4. Harry's general method of operation is to call on his friends for help.  In this book, Harry is (initially) allowed one extra backup member on the crew.  Who will it be?  Which of Harry's other allies will "interfere" before the plot is over?  9/10/13 an interview was published that answers the first half of this question.

5. This is a Denarian book, so (unlike the last "end of the world" showdown), the Swords will almost certainly be present.  In fact, there have been various hints...  Which Sword wielders will appear in the next book and how will their interference/help affect the plot?
I think that Sasha wil be a part of Harry's crew.  Marcone and the sword of faith is a possibility.


6. Mab is apparently against Nicodemus succeeding in this heist.  In the Cold Days, we found that Mab had complex reasons for wanting Harry to kill Maeve.  What are Mab's reasons in this book?  Is it simple thwarting or is there something deeper?
Mab understands that Cerberus and the Gate are not compatible

8.  One of the key components of the "Ocean's Eleven" movie is that there is a final twist/reveal.  Given that we've got Nicodemus, Harry, Mab, and potentially Hades (and who knows who else) all trying to get the better of each other, if there's one thing you can count on it's some sort of last minute quintuple-cross.  What will be the nature of the twist and how will it all fall out?
Marcone's flunkie is Lasciel, they end Mab's spell and call Lash.  Lash emerges on Harry's side.   Marcone  sides with Harry and Hades


9.  (Extra Credit) There are many WAG ("Wild A$$ Guess") theories on the boards, some crazier than others.  Write up to three WAG theories (or make up your own) you believe are correct that will be confirmed (or at least have evidence in favor of) in Skin Games.-
1. The identities of Lash/Lasciel (the headache/Marcones new flunky)
2. Lash is angelic
3. Nicodemus hates Nemesis more than Harry.
« Last Edit: December 10, 2013, 03:16:47 AM by hassman »
Possessor of a mind so twisted as to be actually sprained