2013: Already more than a decade into a new century, and with all the new information since the 1984 publication of the discovery of the Baryonyx, and contemplating novelizing the entire Long-Grin five-part series he's retitled the Long-Grin Saga, not only had our knowledge of dinosaurs -- especially the one at the roots of Long-Grin's family tree -- grown exponentially, but the techniques and materials used to fabricate a new dragon had also evolved significantly. Naturally, that being so, Travis contacted William "Billy" Bryan. |
In fact, it was much more expensive an undertaking than before, but the results were even more astonishing. And even with the incredible advancements in CGI optical effects, there would still be a need for a practical dragon, should the project once again become considered for a theatrical motion picture series. For now, it would be enough to have an inspiring Long-Grin back in Otherworld Cottage, co-habiting in Travis' office, an ever-present reminder that the work is not yet done. |
Knowing the size of the dragon is a big help -- as is the light-weight foam used to create Long-Grin's skull -- and skull there must be, if this dragon was to be able to open its mouth. |
Textures had evolved, too. Each individual scale of the new Long-Grin would have to be cut out and fitted, so that the bones and muscles moving beneath its hide would appear natural. |
Billy presents Travis with the beginnings of the creature's "look." Each scale is pinned in place for Travis to approve before they are permanently attached to dragon's hide. |
The dragon's neck must be flexible and thanks to these supporting coils, will keep it light weight, hollow, and allow for the wiring its operators will require |