ECLIPSE Magazine February 2016

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L

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A H U

A MAGAZINE

ECLIPSE

FEBRUARY 2016

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Contents

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92.

Delightful Gatherings Catalina Staheli uncovers a place of such mystery and delight, known as Elysion.

14 Dates in February ECLIPSE scours the grid looking for 14 unique places to take that someone special... or even a great group of friends!

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136.

230.

Con | De Struct

Cajsa Lilliehook investigates and researches the phenomenon known as “Catfishing.�

The Proust Spotlight ECLIPSE Magazine continues their monthly feature showcasing the talented blogger, stylist and modelVin Cinquetti.

22.

Urban Musings

178.

Labor of Love

194.

Artist Highlight

212.

Voices from the Grid

242.

The Adventures of...

The ECLIPSE trend squad shows us their street style take on the nightwear/lingerie trend.

Introducing our new fashion editor, as well as the ECLIPSE senior writer & copy editor and our marketing director!

The light shines on two live artists from Whispering Sands Live Promotion.

We take it to the streets and ask the grid to share their thoughts on finding love in Second Life.

Miele Tarantal takes ECLIPSE on a photographic journey where she discovers, Alpha Tribe.

Often times in the fashion industry, it is easy to become short-sighted and forget that fashion is not limited to that small community. Fashion is the art of expression, which is an integral part of our shared virtual world and the Second Life community as an aggregate; thus, our goal at ECLIPSE Magazine is to not only offer an aesthetically pleasing publication with a heavy fashion influence and rich in content but be accessible to all of SL.. because EVERYONE wants to look good.

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Cover Story Hamlet Au Cover Photographer Lessthen Zero Writer: Cajsa Lilliehook

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Your Net Worth

80.

Notorious Lingerie

124.

Pagan and Death

158.

It’s a Date!

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Boudoir Eyes

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Layered Lingerie

e

Our new fashion editor has brought on a few guest stylists and photographers.

This feature highlights: Mery Haramori.

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Letter From the Publisher It is almost incredible for me that ECLIPSE Magazine is now celebrating it’s one year anniversary, since it was born- ultimately, from idle musings. From it’s inception we have focused on both quality and depth in both aesthetics and content, something we continue to strive monthly to do better and better.

This year has brought many changes, while some have been more trying than others, they have all served to strengthen not only the magazine- but also, who I am, as well.

On a professional standpoint, I’m grateful to welcome aboard Amazon Silverweb as our new fashion editor. Her experience, wealth of knowledge and vision will truly enrich the magazine. Cajsa Lilliehook, as officially senior writer and copy editor [and unofficially a conceptual/creative director of sorts], ensures each edition we publish not only has the depth and quality we endeavor for but the relevancy, as well.

Friendships on this grid has proven at times to be fickle, whether from a heartbreaking misunderstanding or… something even more shameful or vicious. However, it has also highlighted the friends and family that have remained steadfast in not only their support but more importantly their love. Those nearest to my heart, and who I am most thankful for: Taylor, Xan, Beth, Ellie, Kelsie, Tempie, Wicca, Carley, Edi, Steele, Ande, Spirit, Leezah, Less, Cat and all the other people who have been the constants in my life [or IM box :P]. Words alone cannot even scratch the surface.

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Last year, I wrote about love and how I did not need Valentine’s Day to be that one special day a year that I show Zzoie how much I love her and how she is the single most significant person in my life. It’s true. I would like to think that I show her in words and more importantly in actions, every day, how no matter how any other heart may beat… mine will always match in rhythm and tempo with hers.

Our one year anniversary issue has been the biggest issue we have published so far, and it is my sincerest wish that no matter where you are in your Second Life- you will find something of interest.

Happy Readings!

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Contributors Writers Amity Sorbet Cajsa Lilliehook Catalina Staheli Sarah Jane Starship

Taylor Wassep

Zzoie Zee

Creative Director

Creative Director

MieleLilliehook Tarantal Cajsa

Amazon Silverweb

Fashion Editor Copy Editor

Fashion Editor

Photographers Amazon Silverweb Anderian Sugarplum Daffodil Crimson Ephemeral Skye Jordan Giant Lessthen Zero Miele Tarantal Tempest Rosca Zzoie Zee Dethly Models Ahn Avion Caoimhe Lionheart Catalina Staheli Falbala Fairey Kim Rongyu Leezah Kaddour Locuala Madruga Lua Vendetta Steele Sirnah Thi Shippe Wicca Merlin Guest Stylists & Photographers Dantelicia Ethaniel Mery Haramori Tokisan

Catalina Staheli Marketing Director

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Now Hiring ECLIPSE Magazine is looking to expand their team. We are seeking selfmotivated, dedicated and outgoing individuals who want to work with a team that values integrity, honesty and handwork.

We are hiring: Photographers Writers We ask that interested individuals email their resumes to trouble@penumbrasl.com

Want to advertise with ECLIPSE Magazine?

Want to be featured in ECLIPSE Magazine?

Do you have any suggestions for ECLIPSE Magazine?

Contact Trouble Dethly in-world!

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Urban Musings Page 22 | ECLIPSE February 2016

Photography by Tempest Rosca ECLIPSE February 2016 | Page 23

Wicca Merlin Top: Apple May - Tigress Sliced Top Pants: Apple May - Tigress Hot Pants Corset: Pixicat - Temptation.Corset Cape: ISON - Occult Jacket Shoes: PixelFashion - Vanina Boots Collar: Maitreya - Vintage Collar Hair: NO.MATCH - NO.PERFECTION Piercing iNFLiCT - Forever Page 24 | ECLIPSE February 2016

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Thi Shippe Hair | .Shi Hair : Street Chic [Unisex ] Glasses | (Yummy) Trudy Round Shades Septum | RAW HOUSE :: Septum Mandala Necklace and Bracelet | UNISEX [MANDALA]LUSTFUL-Jewelry-set Shirt | [Pumpkin]TMP. - Apron teePants | -David Heather-Seventeen Suit Boot | ::ROC:: Martens Boot Mid! (MALE)

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Steele Sirnah Wicca’s Wardrobe Darell Pants A:S:S Dorian Vest Unorthodox Facial hair S O R G O glasses ECLIPSE February 2016 | Page 29

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Falbala Fairey Lingerie| Arianna in Nude by Countdown Jacket| JacketOverShoulders in Black by COCO Shorts| Chica “Black in my Mind” V3 by Hilly Haalan Belt| BF Jeans & Belt in Dark by Maitreya Boots| London High Boots in Camel by GizzA Hair| Nanina by EMO-tions Earring| Sarika feather earrings in Tropical by Zaara Necklace| Kotowari Necklace by Mandala Rings| Raven Rings by RealEvil Industries ECLIPSE February 2016 | Page 31

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Catalina Staheli Jacket: (fashionably dead) - Loose Kimono Top: Addams - Sirena Top for Women Pants: coldLogic - capri lepore Shoes: Essenz - Florence Jewelry: EarthStones - Gypsy Hair: Analog Dog - Amber ECLIPSE February 2016 | Page 33

Ahn Avion Coat: Deadwool - Duster coat mesh Boots: Deadwool - Patmos boots Body Stocking: Vitamen - Night Flower Necklaces: Gabriel - Achilleus long & short Page 34 | ECLIPSE February 2016

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The Journalist Page 40 | ECLIPSE February 2016

Written by Cajsa Lilliehook Photography by Lessthen Zero ECLIPSE February 2016 | Page 41

Hamlet Au is an author, journalist, and publisher. Second Life® and gaming are his beat. He is the publisher of the general interest Second Life blog, New World Notes. Unlike most SL® blogs, its audience draws on a wide cross-section of people from Second Life, not just the followers of fashion, but the surfers, role-players, creators, dramatists, artists, landlords and even the staff of Linden Lab™.

In addition to publishing his SL news blog and writing a history of SL, Au has written about the gaming world under his real life identity Wagner James Au, at GigaOM, Salon, Wired, the L.A. Times and several other magazines and newspapers.

New World Notes has had the imprimatur of Linden Lab since it began. Au, was originally a contract writer for the Lab. He describes this relationship as covering SL “as an embedded journalist in an emerging society... its controversies, its personalities, its innovations and ambitions, along with larger themes of identity, social norms and organization, and cultural expression important to online worlds in general.”

Unlike most SL residents, Au unites his first and Second Life identities in all his endeavors. The front page of his blog has a photos of both identities, his real life name, Wagner James Au, and information about his first life journalism career. For Au, that merging of identity is integral to the credibility of his work and of the sources he cites in his work.

He has been an advocate of voluntary linking real and virtual identities in Second Life. In a 2014 article, he advocated that anonymity be Page 42 | ECLIPSE February 2016

regarded as a privilege that can only be retained if people do not abuse it. On many social networks, the idea that anonymity is the guarantor of free speech has been elevated to the status of The Prime Directive, leaving people at risk of stalking, harassment, abuse and even violence. More recently, he has recognized that anonymity also confers some protections to people from harassment after someone used an image from one of his articles to identify her in real life and began harassing her. The ability to recognize challenges to his worldview, adapt to new information and even shift his opinion is the essential element in making a good journalist.

Au began Second Life when it was still in beta, a rather empty virtual world with unknown and unimagined possibilities, but a rather banal reality.

He describes his first day as essentially boring, learning to use the viewer, rezzing boxes and playing with the build tools. His second day, though, was another story. He enthuses, “I met a woman who built a super cool mansion in Second Life while she was homeless in real life. Just totally by random. That’s a key reason why I still stay - the constant serendipity.”

Au founded New World Notes in 2003 with the mission of documenting SL. Because nearly all content in SL is user created, it was impossible to know what to expect. For Au, “As more and more interesting stories from Second Life emerged, I also started writing about them as mirrors we could hold up to the real world, and how culture changes (and often doesn’t) when it’s made virtual. That’s still part of New World Notes’ “mission”, but in recent years, as more and more of our broader culture ECLIPSE February 2016 | Page 43

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is virtualized, I’ve also become more cautionary and skeptical. We now know how Second Life has succeeded and how it fell short, but far too many people in virtual reality industry seem to be set on repeating the same past mistakes.”

In the great metaphysical question of Second Life, is it or is it not a game, Au puts all his chips on it being a game. He describes it as a “social sandbox sim that people enjoy in widely different ways, many of which contradict each other (I.E., socializers versus YouTube trolls) or don’t overlap.” He thinks that contributes to people’s perspective that this is not a game. Also, those in SL who have not played Minecraft, The Sims or World of Warcraft, or other MMOs are just not aware of the similarities. Certainly when Sean Smith (Vile Rat in EVE Online) was murdered in Benghazi, the community of EVE was as rocked and heartbroken as Second Life has been at the loss of some of its community leaders.

For Au, there are two reasons it is important that people understand SL is a game. First, the entire “Second Life is not a game” premises is Linden Lab marketing spin to help position SL as a work platform in the real word. He knows this because he helped write it. That may have been the theory, but it did not work out in practice and the corporations who initially rushed to SL quickly retreated. For Au, that is detrimental to Second Life, “Both SLers and Linden Lab have forgotten that fact, and keep treating SL more like a platform, than a game, which is a key reason it hasn’t grown. SL would have way more users if Second Life was architected much more explicitly as a game -- without losing any of the things which make it special.”

When it comes to the question of how our Second Life relates to our first, Au points out that that SL is not unique in fostering relationships that slip back in forth from the physical to the digital. “That continuum actually exists in all MMOs, whether a traditional RPG MMO or a sandbox sim/social game like Second Life— many people maintain long distance relationships by playing WoW, for example. For me, I generally interact in SL as I would at an actual Halloween party, while wearing a costume -- some level of whimsical roleplay through my reporter’s Tom Wolfe-esque avatar, ECLIPSE February 2016 | Page 45

but still basically me. I also vary my perspective based on who I’m interacting with, be it hardcore roleplayers or social chat users or whoever.”

People have predicted the end of SL for years, again and again. Au believes that is because even Linden Lab did not really understand was Second Life is and what it is not, so when it failed to live up to its hype as the next generation of the internet, it was easy for people in tech and in the media to assume it would fade away. To successfully market Second Life, people need to understand what Second Life is—and if you ask a dozen people in SL, they will give you a dozen answers.

Au is not optimistic about Second Life’s future in the long term. He notes that SL is built on an outdated server architecture and revenue model. He anticipates a steady decline in usage after Sansar, Linden Lab’s second generation virtual world, launches later this year. SL is dependent on people being willing to pay $300 a month for private land and they won’t do that if there are not the people to help sustain it. He is, however, unperturbed at the idea, “Nothing wrong with dying, everything dies eventually - and it’s been incredibly groundbreaking and important to many people during its lifespan.

Including and maybe especially me.”

He predicts that without drastic changes, Project Sansar will cannibalize SL, eroding its user base by somewhere between 100,000 or 200,000 people. Losing 25 to 50% of its dedicated users would cut the legs out from under the economic base that sustains land ownership in SL, taking everyone over what insiders call “the cliff” and push the Lab into desperate measures such as cutting tier so the remaining people are enticed to stay. Au points out that Second Life must continue for some time to finance Sansar through its launch and growing pains. In his view, “It’ll be a shadow of its former self at that point, but can probably exist in this convalescent state for a decade.” He makes a point that this is only if they do not make some drastic changes and believes there are steps the Lab could take to bring back SL’s potential, but he plans to lay out those ideas in his blog.

Au is still curious, though, and not ready to climb on his virtual horse and ride off into the virtual sunset. “I want to see how it evolves, now that virtual reality has (yet another) chance to become a mainstream phenomenon.”

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Check out Au’s favorite posts over the years: -Fighting the Front -The Husband that Eshi Made -The Skin You’re In -Woman with Parkinson’s Reports Significant Physical Recovery After Using Second Life - Academics Researching -Seeking to Uncover Grand Theft Auto V’s Mysteries, Players Discover Virtual Memorial to a Second Life Pioneer Au’s book on Second Life: The Making of Second Life Au’s Blog: New World Notes

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Your Net Worth Page 50 | ECLIPSE February 2016

Photographer and Stylist Mery Haramori ECLIPSE February 2016 | Page 51

hair: [ 69 ] JESSICA 02 - Chestnut Boots: [Co57] Misfit Boots Noir Necklace: Minimal @ Uber Bag: Lowen - Faye Bag

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Hair: Little Bones - Grimes @ Uber Gown: Indyra - Lourdes Stilettos: Essenz - Toulouse Male Sandals: Gabriel (gacha) Bag: Apple Fall

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Left Hair: Murray - Greta Top&Skirt: N-Uno - Sati N2 Bangle: LaGyo - Charlotte Middle Top: Jeune by Rowne.Kremi Lace Top - Grey Leggings: Rowne.Nicolas Leather Leggings - Onyx Sandals: Rowne.Nadja Sandals - Grey Bracelet: MINIMAL - Elipse Bracelet Rings: MINIMAL - Leya Ring *1* -Gold- & ^^Swallow^^ Savannah Ring shoulder pads: Jeune by Rowne.Phelps Shoulder Pads - Onyx Nails: RAMA - French Nails Pack Right Jeans: Monso - My Ripped Jeans

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Hair: Murray - Magdalena Top: Jeune by Rowne.Kremi Lace Top - Camel

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Delightful Gatherings: Elysion Page 62 | ECLIPSE February 2016

n

Written by Catalina Staheli Photography by Zzoie Zee ECLIPSE February 2016 | Page 63

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There is an incredible place here in Second Life速, an amazing treasure just waiting for discovery. A lush, decadent environment that enthralls the senses and ensnares the visitors to enjoy the delights found within.

What is this place of mystery and delight?

Welcome to Elysion.

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Elysion was formed out of an idea to create a place in Second Life where people could flex their creative muscles, be social, listen to talented DJ’s who are passionate about music, experience performance art, and enjoy the elements of SL that make this platform truly unique. Second Life is a place where you can create any type of environment, which is a large part of what Elysion is about, creating a friendly, welcoming atmosphere that fosters creativity in an attempt to capture the uniqueness Second Life offers.

In the three years Elysion has been on the grid, it has progressed beyond the initial vision of a gathering place for adults in Second Life to visit, form friendships, and socialize at weekly themed events. Elysion offers not only the social aspect, but also hosts the White Pines Gallery, a permanent art gallery that features amazing art from its talented members. Elysion also hosts a extremely talented group of women, The

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Luxe Girls, who perform a visually stunning Burlesque show once a month at the Luxe Theater located on the sim was well.

All of these varied elements make up Elysion.

Elysion has been on the Second Life Grid since Early January 2013. There are several elements that have lead to its success. The biggest part is how it has continued to evolve over the years to allow its members to enjoy themed parties, burlesque shows, amazing music, and beautiful event builds created by one of Second Life’s most talented builders, Kadlin Fall. There also exists an ever changing landscape, Les Reves, to generate excitement for the privileged members of Elysion. The sim has been extremely lucky to be supported by talented and extremely creative people .

The level of support given by its members, as well as the many talented creators who have wanted to see it thrive has just been nothing short of phenomenal. This is evident at every

event, where the turnout is always sensational, the sim filling with happy long-term friends and newcomers alike as all celebrate a spectacular social life.

Elysion started out on a very small parcel of land, and after a couple months, was able to sustain itself on a full region.

Landscaping, sim design, and building has been a passion of the owner, Syn Beresford, since 2007. She wanted Les Reves to reflect the mission of Elysion, creating an environment that drives the creative elements of Second Life. A designer in her first life, she has been naturally at creating balance and form, so when designing or changing the sim, she is always challenging herself to make every spot detail-oriented, able to evoke on a mood for members who enjoy photography. Syn finds it absolutely wonderful to see something she has designed and created through the eyes

of others, and a true honor to have inspired them to make art.

Elysion is described as a ‘lush adult environment catering to the sensual, and artistic side of your Second Life’. Syn explains the description of Elysion is meant to express that even though the sim is rated as adult, it does offer many different elements. Elysion is enjoyed and visited by its members in a variety of exciting ways. There are private areas hidden among the landscape to allow couples to spend time together, or for a member to tuck themselves away while they work during the day to just relax and listen to music. The choice to make the sim rating adult, was simply to allow adults to be adults. To allow members to enjoy themselves in whatever way makes them happy in SLŽ, to allow for roleplay, photography, performance art, or the social events.

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When asking the visitors who come to the charming sim what they think of Elysion, responses were all glowingly positive, including WreNoir Cerise, a well-known photographer who exclaimed with delight how she loved this sim. Another visitor, Iolanda Weidman, shared with us, “Well, I think this is one of the best Second Life sims, a place to stay by your own admiring the creativity and the genius of Syn Beresford.

Personally I always take inspiration by what she does. It’s also a great place to meet people and have a nice chat. Syn Beresford gives to all creators the possibility to show their creations, it’s also like a big showroom. The quality of details it’s amazing and there is always a continuity throughout the sim.”

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Looking ahead to future goals and plans for this sim, ever increasing in popularity, Syn shared “I would like to see Elysion continue to grow, and continue to be the vibrant thriving community it currently is, to remain ever changing to suit the needs of its members. The group has grown significantly over the past three years, but there is still an element of closeness, and support among the members of Elysion. It is a place where members who find it, bring their friends which, I feel speaks volumes. I am forever humbled when I receive a thank you message from a member that they enjoy the sim, or that they brought a friend to experience it, that they look forward to the events every weekend. What more could anyone want, than to know you can brighten someone’s day, by simply providing them with a spot to enjoy.�

As one trails throughout the the winding paths and cozy, charming points of interest, it is clear that the hope for Elysion is for it to remain a place where members come to relax and enjoy what it has offer, to remain an environment where everyone is welcome with a chance to find that delightful decadence that seems to be all but lost in Second Life these days. Come and share in the intoxicating joy that is Elysion.

Click here to teleport.

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From the creative mind of the talented Heavenly Villa, Shutter Field is a one shop stop for all things Home & Garden Decor. Offering a wide array of beach items, the highest caliber furniture, exceptional ornamentation for the garden, stunning mesh structures and prefabs and a variety of decor and accessories for that perfect final touch, Shutter Field is a store with a true focus on quality.

Shop Shutter Field on the Marketplace.

Shop Shutter Field in-world.

Check their blog for all new releases!

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Notorious Nightwear Page 80 | ECLIPSE February 2016

Photography by Ephemeral Skye ECLIPSE February 2016 | Page 81

Caoimhe Lionheart Hair: *argrace*, Seri Earring: Mandala, CHaraCHara Necklace: Mandala, Sakura Watch: Mandala, Kotowari Sweater: Ison, Kimono sleeve Dress: Dead Dollz, Shierak Knickers: *JB*, SC highwaisted bikini bottom Shoos: Maitreya, Stagioni Socks: Maitreya, Dahlia Page 82 | ECLIPSE February 2016

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Kim Rongyu Jacket - Lyrical B!zarre - Rush Negligee - ArisAris - lgs63 Lace negligee Shoes - N-core - Stiletto Ear rings - Zuri Rayna - Crimson Moon Sterling earrings Ring - je suis - Voyante Plain Hair - Milk Hair - Jupiter Eyeliner - Glam Affair - Couture 1 Eyeshadow - XCW - Isabella Eyeliner - *BOOM* - Liquid Glaze Lipstick - Izzie’s - Dark Vibrant lipstick Blush - Amacci - Classic Blush

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LeezahKaddour Hair: TuTy’s - LIMBO Wet look hair Jacket: COCO - JacketOverShoulders Dress: The Secret Store and Nyu - Fall Babydoll Dress Shoes: Dulce De Leche - Dream On Glasses: LaVian - Love Me Harder Glasses Makeup: October’s 4Seasons - Gloss Lips Tattoo Nails: O4S - Slink Neutral Finger Nail Appliers Jewelry: Chop Zuey - Pentecostal Long Necklace Bens Beauty - Evana (Earrings & Ring)

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Locuala Madruga Pants: Coquet. Pajamas - Pants Shirt: !gO! Ava shirt Coat: h.m.a.e.m. - Sara Coat Shoes: _CandyDoll_ Lauren Denim - Maitreya Lara High Necklace: [MANDALA]Pearl-Rain-Season3 Necklace and Pendant Earrings: [MANDALA]Pearl-Rain-Season3 Earrings Brooch: [MANDALA]Kiku-corsage-Shiro Hair: MURRAY- Greta I Hairstyle

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Photography by Daffodil Crimson Written by Amity Sorbet ECLIPSE February 2016 | Page 93

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Tuck’s Misty Isle If you enjoy hiking or are looking for a date spot with some fantasy, then Tuck’s Misty Isle is a great choice.

The landing point is by the water where you can get a pole and try your hand at fishing. There are several hidden paths through the mountain that make for a great short hike. They will leads you to an intimate and secluded river area with benches to sit on nearby.

Further along there are huts you can use for some alone time. A short walk from the river and around another bend is a mushroom glen with couples dances.

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The Yorkshire Moors Next to the Rayne Couture store is a gorgeous park that will take you back to your days of youth. Walk the paths hand in hand with your sweetheart and don’t be afraid to get happily lost in the forest. You will find the area behind you if you turn around after landing. As you walk into the meadow, you will be awed by shooting stars falling to earth. If you are there on a double date, there’s a greedy board.

Nearby there is a picturesque bridge situated next to a rustic picnic area. The moors are a great place for taking photos of yourself in nature. At the edge of the forest further from the store is a pavilion with dancing.

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Whispering Winds When you visit Whispering Winds, you will be welcomed by the immediate sight of zip lines and rope bridges crisscrossing through the sky. This could make for a great adventure! On top of a hill in the distance is a church for special occasions and maybe a wedding? If you are looking for activities, there is a toboggan ride on a track, a hot air balloon ride and a natural pond for swimming. Relaxation opportunities abound: you can sit on plush seats, take a nap in a camping tent or lean back in the hot tub. Hidden away is even a performance venue in a cave! You are guaranteed to find many more attractions while you are there.

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Naka Thai Spa and Resort The Naka Thai Spa welcomes you with amenities that will make for an enjoyable weekend, as there are cabins available for rent. On the land there are several temples for meditation with large yoga and exercise mats just below. You can also visit a room with several options for massages, including a traditional massage table.

Next door is a spacious sauna for just you and that special someone, or a whole crowd if you invite them to join! Near the cabins are a beach for lounging and swimming as well as a tiki bar and hot tub nearby. Overall, this is quite the little getaway!

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Paradise Movie Theater The Paradise Movie Theater is a great opportunity to have that classic date night, or even a double date with friends. Make sure to pick up popcorn and drinks from the lobby on your way in. There are primarily vintage movies available as selections, including a horror film.

When you enter the seating area, there are directions on how to play the movie of your choice. If you enjoy collecting movie posters as decorations, there is a vendor with an ample collection. You can choose to sit in the main theater or have a little more privacy in the balcony.

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Two Moon Paradise It looks lovely from above, but there is so much to be seen under the water. It is a paradise of larger than life ocean plant life. There are many private residences on the seafloor, but that doesn’t mean you can’t explore and enjoy the scenery. On land there is a dance floor around which there are dining tables. For slightly more intimate spots, make your way to the beach. Walking further along will take you to places perfect for sitting with your friends, including around a cozy campfire.

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Looking for d be a quiet pl wine selecti can see right ample seatin You can cho

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Melliyanna’s Whisper Winery & Tapas

dinner out on the town? You will find Melliyanna’s to lace perfect for conversation. They host an extensive ion. Many of the ingredients are on display and you t into the kitchen where the cuisine is made. There is ng choice, whether inside or outside on the terrace. oose to have a dance after dinner or sit on the bench in the garden next to the rez point.

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Calas Galadhon Park The park has just re-opened as of February 1st after taking a short holiday break. There are trails galore. The sim is decorated beautifully, almost like a nature preserve. It feels like stepping into a romantic dream. There are fields full of flowers and several wild horses. On the outskirts is rural farm land, including a quaint farm house that should definitely be visited. Down the hill are stables where you can find a horse to ride along the trails. Nearby you can see ducks and rabbits, as well as the prize-winning pig. Further along is a meadow where the cherry trees bloom.

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It all starts with a smile It all starts with a smile is arguably one of the best locations on the grid for taking photographs. Have a photo shoot planned with your loved one or friends? It’s worth stopping by to see what sets you can utilize, as there are many of those as well as mesh props set-up around the land. As you wander through, you will find a playground and a barn that can be used more for a hideaway. If you are looking for a place to rest, spend some time watching the waterfalls.

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Paradise of Eden When you look around Paradise of Eden, it feels like an oasis in an Amazon forest, not simply an island. There are multiple bodies of water to swim in. Particularly there is a special spot under the rainbow with a solitary floating lounge raft. The area is oh-so romantic and surrounded by exotic flowers. If you seek activity, go for a jump on the trampoline or fly around the island on a dandelion seed.

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Beau X Visit Beau X for a little Italian adventure. Not only is it a club venue, but it is also an expansive complex of buildings with shops. Much of it is built in stone and will surely make you feel like you are in Europe along the Mediterranean. The focal point of Beau X is a stunning ancient Roman theater with a bar underneath; this allows you to enjoy the shows from multiple angles. When events are not happening, you can have some fun by taking a motorboat ride.

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The Retreat When to land in The Retreat, feel free to walk right into the gated community. It has many comforts and a calming atmosphere, just the place to call your home away from home. If you are looking for events, hunts or free items, The Retreat Pavilion has that information. Sit on the chaise near the entrance and let yourself be surrounded by butterflies. Near the wall is a terrace for dining where a basset hound will keep you company. A focal point of The Retreat is a saloon at the end of the path. It makes for the perfect couple or group activity.

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Oceana Ballroom Is dancing all you want to do? At Oceana you will find a wide open ballroom with grand staircases and ornate chandeliers. In the evening you might even catch a performance. At other times of the day, you could have the ballroom all to yourself. There is a handy cart outside selling impromptu gifts for your date; yet another way to make it a special occasion. You can observe the venue from the balcony or take a swing on the dance floor.

Right now you will be enveloped in a winter wonderland scene.

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SS Galaxy: Queen of the Sagittarian Sea All aboard! The SS Galaxy is the perfect honeymoon location for those who have would like a sea voyage adventure. It is built as a full-functioning cruise ship. If you choose, you can have a destination wedding on the ship, as it comes complete with a chapel. There are many types of rooms to choose for your stay. In the base of the ship is the Starlight Lounge, Japanese Garden Restaurant and places to go boating, swimming or do other sports, as well as an art gallery for you to puruse. Planning to host a different type of event? There is even a conference center.

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Pagan: Death and all his Friends Page 124 | ECLIPSE February 2016

Photographer and Stylist Dantelicia Ethaniel ECLIPSE February 2016 | Page 125

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Dress : Kuroi, Eshi Otawara Hair : Lamb Makeup : The Plastik ECLIPSE February 2016 | Page 127

Top : Sari wrap, .SHI Dress : Malignant Dress, Pixicat Hat: Savage Headpiece, Purple Moon Drape : Time Traveler Sleeves, Zenith Page 128 | ECLIPSE February 2016

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Outfit : Love letters from m Hair: Nori Hair White, Lybra Page 130 | ECLIPSE February 2016

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Outfit: Bobbinlace by Meilo Minotaur Shoes: Phedora, Willow High Boots Page 132 | ECLIPSE February 2016

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Con | De Struct: Catfishing Page 136 | ECLIPSE February 2016

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H e thought he found heaven when she walked into the dance club that night.

He liked her name, they chatted. There were sparks, but she had a partner, so they got to know each other as friends.

Romance bloomed after her partner left Second Life®. He remembers, “We started a journey of the unknown. Our friendship quickly grew and our love as well.” They began to talk on Skype® and their love deepened. He lost contact with friends, spending all his time with her, “me always with her, you know the whole love thing.”

Perhaps he should have been more cautious. “I started to realize something wasn’t right when she would send me pictures of herself but would not cam on Skype with me.” When one of the photos she sent turned out to be one of a porn star, she explained that as a member of the Canadian national hockey team, she had to protect her privacy and sent another picture—again a fraud.

“Around and round it went. She has many alts on SL®, enough to create an army.” She would go missing and return just when he would begin a new relationship.

Her SL sister informed him she died in a horrific accident, but by then he was more skeptical. He knew the story was false because he had friends who lived near her.

While his head told him she was trouble, his heart was still tender toward her. He mourns the woman he fell that he loved, a woman who never existed. “I feel in love with someone who wasn’t who they said they were and it hurts” Even as he shared this story all these years later, he wept. He is baffled, unable to understand how this could happen. “I’m just a normal person. I like things simple and still can’t understand why people do it...and for anybody else who went through what I did, I feel sorry for them.” Welcome to catfishing.

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Photograph by Zzoie Zee

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Welcome to catfishing.

In October 2010, the documentary film “Catfish” was released. It featured Yaniv “Nev” Schulman and was directed by his brother Ariel Schulman and Henry Joost.

It explored Nev’s relationship with Angela, an online friend and even romantic interest that turned out to be a false persona created to capture his interest. It was soon followed by their MTV series of the same name where they bring together internet love affairs, often to the mutual dismay of both when one of them turns out to be a false construct.

The term comes from the practice of putting a few catfish in with the live cod while shipping them long distance. The presence of the catfish stimulate the cod enough that they remain healthy during long shipments, so they will be fresh and firm rather than mushy and tasteless. In the film, Angela’s husband tells Schulman about the catfish and says, “And there are those people who are catfish in life. And they keep you on your toes. They keep you guessing, they keep you thinking, they keep you fresh. And I thank god for the catfish because we would be droll, boring and dull if we didn’t have somebody nipping at our fin.”

“Catfish” captures the zeitgeist of this hyper-connected era and exploits the anxieties of those who spend a lot of their time on social media. It asks us how well we really know those who become our friends in the faceless worlds of the internet. With the success of the franchise, “catfish” has come to mean assuming a false identity or fictionalizing much of your online identity in order to make friends and influence people. The series has explored catfish relationships on many social media sites. They have even announced they will be casting in Second Life.

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Sfriends, he knew her for two years before they go together. They had been moving in the same circles when in a moment of courage

and clarity in 2009, they confessed their feelings, discovering they both had long-held crushes on each other. It was amazing, they spent all their time together, shopping, clubbing and exploring. They opened a club together and had the rock-n-roll life complete with kinks.

The first inkling that something was wrong happened in the afterglow of a particularly naughty romp. She recalls, “She asked me what my views on MTF trans girls were and the discussion ended up with us basically agreeing to live our private lives as trans girls. I didn’t think anything of it at the time, because at this point I was 3 years into my RL transition and super comfortable with myself and as someone who is attracted to MTF trans girls as I am, I also didn’t think it strange that she would be.”

She started to question thing when her partner would tell her she could tell her anything, making her think it was her partner who really had something to confess. It is so clear to her in hindsight, as she remembers that she “even went as far as to suggest that if I was male in real life, that’d be OK with her and she could accept it. I definitely thought that she was now projecting her own feelings and was feeling the water for my reaction. As usual, I told her there was nothing I wanted to say and it went away.”

May 2013, after four years of love and romance, after a night of love and romance and a fond goodnight, she did not log in the next day, or the next, nor the day after that. Days turned into weeks.

Puzzlement became concern and concern became worry and worry became fear. E-mails, IMs, nothing elicited a response. None of her friends had heard from her either. Working from information about her real self, her name, where she worked, she went looking for her, but came up with nothing that matched. After four months, she gave up and deactivated her account in SL. She continued, “I logged into an old, forgotten group admin account and started a new, happier life, one in which I’m out as being a non-op transgender girl in SL as well as real life and one that I’m very happy with.”

Nonetheless, she still thought of her and then on Christmas Eve 2013, she heard from her, a full confession. She was a middle-aged married man in an unhappy marriage that was held together for the sake of the children. Concluding her story, she recounted his explanation, “‘She’ had fallen for me in a big way and couldn’t go on anymore, so decided to just walk away and remove SL from the PC etc. I replied, but never heard back again and quite frankly don’t want to any more. I still sometimes bump into people and they way they react or ECLIPSE February 2016 | Page 141

Iaspirational n Second Life, nearly all of us present our selves. If we are women, we are

lithe with little body fat, clear skin, and lush hair. There is not one coffee stain on our clothes and our breasts don’t sag. Our eyeliner is perfectly applied and we never smear our polish. Our mascara never runs unless we want it to. If we are men, our shoulders are broad, our stomachs are flat and our hips are narrow.

Our battle of the bulge is confined to our genitalia, not our stomachs and our abs are working their way from a six-pack to a twelvepack. Our avatars are constructs of what we like and admire, what we aspire to be.

So where does the catfishing begin? Does it start when we create our avatar and zero out our body fat and drag down our gravity and slide up our bulge? Is it when we choose our hair, thick, lush, radiant hair with never a hint of male pattern baldness? Or is it when we select our skin, flawless, unblemished, without a wrinkle or even a few crow’s feet? Are we all, on some level, catfishing?

Of course not. It is not deception if everyone is in on it. No one believes that we look like our avatar, particularly those of us who have been here for five to ten years and not seen one sign of aging. While we have been transformed by life, our avatars remain with only those flaws we choose to allow them.

Because most people who join Second Life think it is a game when they join and have no idea how Second Life differs from other games, there is a complicating factor that leads some to catfish accidentally.. They logged in and went into character creation mode. They constructed their avatar, not just with a shape, skin and hair, but also a backstory, with an age, a life experience, a history. By the time the reality of SL as a community, a social network, hit them, they were well known as this young, svelte and successful executive, detective, doctor, lawyer, or national hockey champion.

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Tdirections hey met at Boho Hobo, two fashion bloggers who turned a corner from opposite and ran into each other. They were familiar with each other’s work, but had

never met. She had her irons in several SL business fires, real estate, content creation, marketing. She was a success and so friendly, encouraging, confiding, sharing so much of herself and her life. Life had been cruel, robbing her of her husband and children when a drunk driver crashed into their car. Her friend recalls, “When she described those last few hours of concern, wondering why they were late, was she supposed to meet them somewhere, had she missed a call, and knowing, now that they had died, it broke my heart. I imagined how that would feel, confusion to concern to worry to fear to terror and then heartbreak. I cried for her.”

She was a controversial figure with many enemies. She would lose her temper often, raging at even her closest friends, but she would be forgiven. Her friend would defend her, asking for compassion for her struggle and her grief. “My God, she was starting her life over with no one, devastated and broken, and yet still standing. I thought she was so strong.”

Until someone found her on Facebook. The photos of her house shared as her avatar the same as a woman with a husband and children, intact and unharmed. There was no drunk driver and no tragic loss and no excuse for her anger. And no excuse for her lies. Her friend felt she had been drawn into the deceit. “Not only did she deceive me, she made me complicit. I defended her. I asked people to be compassionate for her loss.” She made me part of her deception.

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W here is the line between aspirational constructs and false constructs, between

fantasy and deception, between being an avatar and being a catfish?

There is no agreement on this at all and it is complicated by the gulf between the world as it is and the world as it should be. It gets particularly complex when it comes to gender and trans politics. If the heart, mind, and soul are female; it should not matter if the flesh is male. It is the operating system that governs actions, not the hardware. But tell that to the person who fell in love with a man only to discover that in his first life, he is female. Some can understand and continue to love, but many feel betrayed and hurt. On the other hand, their avatar may be a more true and honest representation of who they are than their physical body.

think that is more deceptive than the gender issue. Many object to misrepresenting marital status as that draws them into complicity in hurting and betraying an unwitting victim.

Others believe that what happens in SL, stays in SL and it does not matter.

One person captured the most common sentiment well, “I don’t believe there is a line unless you are with someone who believes your relationship extends beyond only Second Life.

If that is the case, and you realize it, you are being deceptive unless you let the person either know who you actually are or dissolve the relationship.”

Where there is consensus is in sharing real life information. People are fine with your avatar being whoever you want it to be, but when you begin sharing false photos that claim to be from real life, making up or Some think shaving off a few years or a few erasing children or claiming illnesses, losses pounds is not deceptive. After all, don’t we all and other traumas, you have crossed the line feel much younger than we are? Others for most respondents.

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W hen he met her, she was everything he

hoped for. They got to know each other just as avatars. They hardly ever voiced, she did not share many photos from her real life. Over time she opened up, sharing that she had cancer. When suspicions arose from things her friends said, they were discounted.

Whatever she may have done in the past, that was not her now. She was different.

They adopted a daughter, forming a tightly knit, happy family. He proposed and she said yes. Their adopted daughter met someone, a boyfriend whose mother died of cancer. Knowing more about cancer and its treatment, her stories of her own cancer journey sounded wrong to him.

He looked at her pictures on Facebook, finding one of her treatment syringe.

With reverse image search on Google®, he discovered the picture was from someone else.

As he explains, “When i confronted her about it, I found out she had been lying about everything, the pictures, the cancer, all of it. So we ended up breaking up and to this day she is still keeping up with her catfishing.”

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W hy do people catfish? The frankest answer to the ECLIPSE survey was “to snake as many

women as I can.” But there are probably as many answers as there are people. We are complex creatures and often have multiple motivations.

One catfish who answered our survey said she was not old enough to join SL, so she lied and now is stuck with her age. Exploring gender identity was also a common reason. If you can’t afford gender reassignment surgery in real life, you can experience living in a body that matches your inner self in Second Life.

Personal insecurities about age, fitness, health, beauty and body image add another layer of motivations.

Schulman sees it as “a symptom of our culture’s obsession with appearance; our confusion about what beauty is and how we should feel about our bodies; and our compulsion to compare ourselves to the people we see on TV and on social media. Beauty is internal—related to energy and confidence—but we rarely remember this.”

However, despite this fine sentiment, most of the people who met up with their soul mates on his Catfish show fell quickly out of love when seeing their soul mate’s physical appearance. It may be they were put off by the deception, but until they see their catfish, they seem ready to forgive anything.

Our survey respondents often identified low self-esteem as the motivation for catfishing.

Nimoe Constantine, who knows someone who is a catfish, put it beautifully, “I think there are a multitude of reasons, but at the base of each of them there must be some form of general malaise towards themselves and their own life. They might otherwise live their virtual alter ego without having to hide behind a thousand lies.”

That may be borne out by this response from an anonymous catfish, “Being a retired catfisher, my motivation was pretty much getting people to like me for me. Feeling that love and care from a significant other. Thankfully I came clean on time and nobody ended up getting hurt.”

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Safterhe ending met him through a mutual friend shortly a two-year relationship in SL. They

talked on voice and began dating, but when she asked to cam, he was reluctant. He had a bad experience with cam and just was not ready. She thought nothing of it since they voiced everyday.

But as the relationship continued past the six month mark, something was off, stories were not adding up.

I didn’t care. I forgave him and even met him in real life.”

In spite of her forgiveness and understanding, the lies continued. They made plans for him to come to live with her for six months. She spent more than $1000 on airfare and hotels for the trip. He called three days before and cancelled. She walked away, but had to change her number and block him on her phone. In the end, she thought, “I will never She reverse-searched his number and found it list- trust again or let anyone near me.” ed under a woman’s name. Searching that name, she found a MySpace page and Facebook page. That was not the end for our catfishing victim. She She compared her first and his Second Life Face- did find her way to trusting another. She made a book pages and realized they were the same per- child avatar and befriended another child avatar. son. “Every picture and everything was a lie,” she After their friendship deepened, they decided to wrote. “I confronted [him] that night on a skype go to their adult avatars and be together. They call. At first he tried to lie to me about it and then moved slowly; it was two months before they talkfinally admitted it was him. He explained that he ed on voice. He would call her on her cell. He, too, felt as if he was transgender. I was so in love that was reluctant to cam even though he knew

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what had happened to her before. Her suspicions also found out that she has a girlfriend that lives were aroused when she realized all the pictures with her. The girlfriend actually called my phone he shared were screenshots. and told me that they are still together and have been for thirteen years. I ended it right then. But She knew he had a girlfriend in SL before her, that was not the end for her. She continued to try someone he said he had lived with for two years. and get me back but I refused. Come to find out She contacted her and asked about him, discov- her girlfriend also has a kid avatar and was on ering they not only had never lived together, they my friends list for some time. And apparently she had never met. After they had been together for knew everything that was going on with [his avaover five years, his ex found his facebook account. tar] and me the entire time. I honestly have never From his ex, she found out that for the second time, felt so betrayed in my life.” she had been catfished by a woman.

The damage is deep and lasting. She is scared to He explained he was transgender. He begged her date on SL again. She finished her story, saying, “I not to leave him. She demanded they cam imme- do not think these people realize how badly they diately and so they facetimed. There were many hurt others and how they break someone’s trust more layers of deceit beyond gender.. “All the so much...So yeah, I was catfished twice....back to pictures that were sent to me was of one of her back. What are the chances right?” friends. She continued to lie to me, I found out she had given me a fake name as her real name. I

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A surprising common thread in the catfish stories is that many people were suspicious for a long time and did not see to confirm or dispel their suspicions, preferring to continue despite uncertainty. Even after the first lie, the second, and the third were discovered, they continued to vest their love and hope in the false construct of their lover. Schulman wrote in Real Life: Love, Lies & Identity in the Digital Age, “We are so desperate for external validation that we’ll even accept it from someone who may be lying to us.”

It seems that the construction of false identity involves a lot of destruction. There is the destruction of trust. Sadly, those who are betrayed do not lose trust in just the deceiver, but in the world at large. Every betrayal makes it harder to trust again.

Hearts calloused by betrayal are harder to open to the possibilities of life.

Setting aside trans avatars who when they create avatars in their true gender, not their biological sex, are being honest, there is often a destruction of self on the part of the deceiver–a conscious declaration that these parts of their lives are unworthy, defective, unwanted. There is self-loathing in deciding that you cannot be loved as you are. As one person put it, “I did it because I believed, falsely, that I could attract friends quicker in an alternative avatar. This was born out of my loneliness.”

But then, in a world where we can be dragons, fairies, tinies and goblins, minotaurs and princesses, as well as models, soldiers, and expert surfers the first time we pick up a board, it is not surprising that those lines can be muddled. Those elements of fantasy and roleplay make catfishes of us all from time to time. So the best thing we can do is follow the universal rule that unites all faiths and treat others as we would like to be treated.

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Tin theheysame were mutual acquaintances and ran circles. He was funny and nice.

They were socially friendly, frequently running into each other at events. They liked a lot of the same things. They became friends. There was a lot of laughter. She recalls how “he remembered little things, sent silly presents and became someone I looked forward to.

Eventually we grew to sharing RL info with one another, and after a couple of years of being close friends we rarely ever talked SL but rather just talked about ourselves all the time in terms of our real lives. I would have said he was someone I knew everything about as he shared everything very freely.” That close friendship became romantic and they fell into the category of people who have that perfect thing happening, best friends that fell in love.

She heard the whispers, the rumors, the warnings that she was being lied to, but dismissed them. “I knew everything about him including where he was going and when in real life. I had heard his voice on multiple occasions.”

She continued, “He had several exes and people from the past who were typical SL crazies, and they were usually the ones who spewed venom at him. But you know how SL is. People get jealous and stupid and so the first thing they like to throw aspersions on often times is someone’s reality. Someone can’t be good looking, kind and great. So they say they’re all these terrible things. When you see how much they hate the person they talk about, it’s easy not to believe them.”

Then, out of the blue he broke up with her.

Although heartbroken, she kept silent. They were both well-known in their relatively small community and she did not want to be the object of gossip or pity. “I didn’t discuss it except with my very closest confidants and those are few. I mourned, I felt like I’d been kicked in my heart. I really loved him, and if nothing else truly believed he was my best friend.”

Within a few days, people began reaching out to her—her discretion matched by his indiscretion as he made news of the separation louder and clearer than their relationship had ever been. People she did not even know contacted her and telling her truths, truths backed by evidence. “At first I didn’t want to believe it but then people starting bring me truths. His real life info. How the stories he told were CLOSE but not actually true. How he’d deceived me and others. And how I was just one more step on his acquisition of popularity. I had never considered myself more popular than him, however he’d recently attached himself to someone even MORE popular and no longer needed me.”

She learned that there was an unspoken club of victims. People like her who end up keeping his secret because they don’t want to appear vindictive or like a pack of raving loonies screaming “he’s a woman! he’s a woman!” For you see, those people who had whispered their allegations at the beginning were right. They didn’t tell it to her eloquently, or privately, but they were telling her the truth and trying to warn her.

She learned that this person had repeated this pattern for years, and the discarded people who dared to rave aloud about their treatment were branded “stalkers” and “crazies” and were ostracized, ridiculed and marginalized. She regretfully admitted being guilty of perpetrating that same thing in defending him, her friend, her love.

In the end, like many of the other victims, the loss of that relationship is more painful than the deceit. “What I feel worst about now isn’t having been lied to. It’s that I wouldn’t have cared if he was a woman. I’d have been happy to have kept his secret, and just been great pals and happy as we were being friends. I didn’t need the romantic entanglement, in fact I regret it a lot. I miss my friend though. I miss that joy and fun and having that person in my life. Now I know that person never existed.”

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Ibutt isthat easy to blame the internet for catfishing, would be a mistake. History is full of

catfish and so is literature. The anonymous author of Hebrews pretended to be Paul.

The talented and fictional Mr. Ripley did not use the internet. Song Liling in M. Butterfly catfished in person. The Mayor of Casterbridge was a hugely successful catfish. More seriously, there were the many “Lonely Hearts” killers who seduced women through letters, drawing them away from the safety of their home to rob and kill them. In one way, Benjamin Page 154 | ECLIPSE February 2016

Franklin catfished the world when he sent a series of letters that were published by his brother under the name Silence Dogood.

They were funny descriptions of daily life that elicited a raft of marriage proposals from male readers.

Neither Second Life nor the internet are the cause of catfishing. Deception in love and relationships has been around since Jacob put on Esau’s clothing to steal his brother’s birthright.

There are no secrets to avoiding being catfished and no guarantees. However, just as the internet has made it easier for people to deceive, it has also given us the tools to check out our suspicions. If you get a picture, you can look for the meta information to see if it is really a photo or a screenshot. Reverse image search on Google or TinEye can find the source of many photos. You can use video chat to see if they look like who they claim to be, though that will not confirm whether they are single or married. If they give you their real name,

you can look them up and confirm their existence, though again, some people steal other people’s lives for their catfishing. In the end, your best protection is yourself, your instincts. If you are suspicious, there is likely a reason. Use logic, if their statements are selfcontradictory, step back and assess. Do not be afraid to demand proof. After all, you’re only asking for identification, they are asking for your heart. Which is more precious?

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It’s a Date...

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Photographer and Stylist Amazon Silverweb ECLIPSE February 2016 | Page 159

[LWL] Icarus Gown (Girl on Fire - Black w/ Red) .LeLutka.Kruna Page 160 | ECLIPSE February 2016

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Boudoir - American Beauty (shoulder pieces) Bens Boutique - Pearl Gown - red [LWL] Cage veil (Black and white) TuTy’s - BALLERINA - Double buns hairstyle

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Gaja x Native Bralette Crimson Gaja x Native Fringe Skirt Crimson [BURLEY]_Octavia [Modern.Couture] Jewelry - Elua Red

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Boudoir Eyes Page 168 | ECLIPSE February 2016

Photographer and Stylist Tokisan ECLIPSE February 2016 | Page 169

Tokisan HEAD : fiore :. - Jing PONYTAIL: .: fiore :. MAISHA Hair (S) LINGERIE: : erratic / scarlett (maitreya) Page 170 | ECLIPSE February 2016

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Tokisan HEADPIECE Lethal Pussy & Lace Headband Black HEAD : fiore :. - Jing LONG HAIR Bold / Beauty ::Bold & Beauty:: Hair :: Marie.

NAILS: Rebel Gal ::: Slink Nails Appliers Full-Pack HUD #1 Page 172 | ECLIPSE February 2016

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Tokisan HEADPIECE Lethal Pussy & Lace Headband Black HEAD : fiore :. - Jing LONG HAIR Bold / Beauty ::Bold & Beauty:: Hair :: Marie.

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Kaleb Avedon is a Hispanic Singer/Songwriter in SL. He has been writing songs and playing the guitar since he was 14 yrs old. His repertoire is filled with romantic songs from his bi-cultural heritage and his own inspiration. They include songs from Garth Brooks, Jewel, Elvis Presley, Hinder, Enrique Iglesias, Jesse and Joy and many more. So come, sit by the fire and listen to him sing and be transported to a place of romance.

Kaleb sings mostly acoustic songs while playing one of his many guitars, but also has some songs which he sings over a track. His song list can be found on his website, which also lists his upcoming events, as well as a very detailed biography page.

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His top 5 love songs are: - Angel by Robbie Williams - Corre by Jesse and Joy - Bendita La Luz by Mana - Have You Ever Loved a Woman by Bryan Adams - I Won’t Forget You [Original Song by Kaleb] Social Media Links: His SL Facebook His RL Facebook His SL Website His RL Website ECLIPSE February 2016 | Page 177

Labor of Love Page 178 | ECLIPSE February 2016

Written by --ECLIPSE February 2016 | Page 179

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“Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much.�

-- Helen Keller

When creative people come together for a common purpose, something so beautiful unfolds. Behind the scenes here at ECLIPSE, there are many very talented, creative, and driven people that play huge roles in producing some of the most intriguing, insightful, and inspirational pages on the Grid. So much time, planning, preparation, dedication, sweat, tears, and work goes into each section, feature, story, photo, and advertisement. Three of these team members that have that driven passion and a willingness to pour a labor of love into each issue are the editors, Amazon Silverweb, Cajsa Lilliehook, and Catalina Staheli. Their vision, along with that of the other writers, publishers, and photographers, give this magazine life.

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Amazon Silverweb, Fashion Editor Taking the helm of the popular fashion and style pages is Amazon Silverweb, who began working in January for the magazine as a stylist, photographer, and now Fashion Editor.

“I’ve gotten to work on some very interesting first projects,” she explained.

“Since I’ve made my debut as fashion editor, it involves a lot of research, shopping, creating concepts, and styling models.”

It just so happens that the first big issue under her direction is also ECLIPSE’s one-year anniversary, which she said has been a huge challenge full of excitement and fun. “It’s a big deal!” Amazon said. “I wanted to vamp up the fashion pages with some real-life inspiration. You’ll see one of my favorite new trends gracing our pages this issue - notorious nightwear - wearing your lingerie or nightwear as a statement piece. Our models and stylists have interpreted the trend into their own style.”

Amazon said she plans on really growing and adding to the fashion section as she works for the magazine, bringing in lots of new ideas.

“I’d like to bring in guest stylists each issue, as there are so many innovative creators out there,” she said. “They continually inspire me, and I’d like to share that!”

Amazon brings tons of previous experience to the magazine having worked for other magazines.

“I think although my previous experience is definitely a benefit to me, my overall love and passion for fashion is what will help me in my new role! I’ve been lucky to have a lot of experience in the industry,” she said. “I’ve worked in a variety roles for AVENUE Magazine, such as designer liaison, production assistant, to finally Vice President of marketing. After AVENUE ceased publishing I worked for TREMPE Magazine as their Chief Marketing Officer.

I’ve also worked as marketing manager for ISON the fashion brand, owned

by Harry Hyx.” The future of the fashion and style portion of ECLIPSE looks very promising with Amazon at the helm. Her passion and drive will really shine through.

“I’m very excited and honored to be the fashion editor, and I can’t wait to work with some of the esteemed creators in-world!” she said. “I am so thrilled to be a part of the staff!”

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Cajsa Lilliehoo

The process of creating a magazine those ideas are edited, scrutinized Copy Editor Cajsa Lilliehook spends the meat of the magazine, the pho to perfect for the e

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ok, Copy Editor

e begins with ideas, but ends when d, and corrected. Senior writer and s countless hours making sure that oto captions and stories are as close eyes of the public.

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For eight months, Cajsa has brainstormed story ideas, edited articles, and written many columns that have intrigued and inspired the readers through her ideas, most notably her “Voices from the Grid” feature, which was her brain-child.

“Second Life is full of interesting people who very seldom are lifted up and acknowledged,” she said. “We focus our attention on people who succeed, who influence, who entertain. But a community is nothing without the rest of us. They have a lot of opinions, ideas and experiences that deserve notice. They are often skilled and interesting people, but no one asks. So, I like the idea of just going along and asking random people a question and giving them an opportunity to share themselves with the community.”

Cajsa has met a variety of wonderfully unique people from the grid in her role as writer in the past eight months. She explained that each story has a process, from idea to interview to the actual printed edition. But after all that work, each story is something she knows she can be really proud of.

“It really depends on the story, [how much work and time goes into it],” she explained. “For example, this month’s catfishing story has involved hours and hours and hours of work, including a survey to get a feeling for the story and find some people to profile and research on catfishing. For an interview, I generally spend a few days researching someone, write up a bunch of questions and let them answer them, and then write my story from their answers. Ideally, I have time to rewrite my stories two or three times. First drafts are always too long and too loose. VFTG is really just a matter of sending out a few dozen letters to folks asking them the month’s question and waiting for answers to come back.”

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Catalina Staheli, Marketing Director As a marketing director, Catalina Staheli, reaches out constantly to bring in supporters to the pages of ECLIPSE and also to .PENUMBRA.. For more than 7 months, Catalina has been gaining support by bringing in eye-catching advertisements.

“My main responsibility is to run the marketing and public relations for .PENUMBRA. Fashion and Events and ECLIPSE Magazine,” she said. “I focus on creating more exposure for the firm and magazine, reaching out to designers and content creators who may be interested in advertising with us or participating in our events, and preparing for the bi-annual fashion week.”

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Catalina, jill of all trades- as both a rising model, talented photographer and writer, social media guru and captain of her RFL team Stand For Hope, has so many duties when it comes to both ECLIPSE and .PENUMBRA. “As part of my duties, I oversee a marketing team that helps me in these endeavors,” she said. “I handle all social media across the many platforms out there, including the website and both a bloggers team for the monthly magazine as well as a larger team for the fashion weeks. I create and maintain the database of businesses who we interact with and oversee product placement at inworld locations.”

Catalina has high hopes for the future of ECLIPSE as it expands and grows.

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Monthly Artist Highlight Page 194 | ECLIPSE February 2016

Photography by Ephemeral Skye ECLIPSE February 2016 | Page 195

Hogman64 is one of many talented live singers from the Whispering Sands Live Promotions group.

He has sang for year on another program called Paltalk and has been a live musician in Second Life for a year, the last six months with Whispering Sands. His career as a live singer has been a great learning experience for him, opening his eyes to how things operate on a professional level on SL. “I enjoy the interaction with the crowd during my performances, watching the local chat and try to include everyone into my shows. My main goal is to offer good music along with a fun filled party like atmosphere where everyone feels welcome. If people are happy then i am also happy...”

Raised in Ontario, Canada, a farmer by trade, he had stuttered but persevered. Throughout that experience, he learned how to sing, “spending many hours in an upright feed silo that had amazing reverb.” He is most grateful for the people who have supported his music and is eager to meet even more!

His top 5 love songs are: - Father and Son by Cat Stevens - Feel by Robbie Williams - Tangles Up in You by Arron Lewis - We’ve Got Tonight by Bob Seger - Wagon Wheel by Darius Rucker Listen to him here and here.

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Managed by Whispering Sands Live Promotions owner, Jorrdan Jarman, Toxic Darkmatter is a talented live artist whose collection of music ranges from jazz to blues to rock with a bit of a pop flair. Be sure to check out one of her performances, her rich and sultry voice is a guaranteed pleaser.

Take a look at her website.

Listen to her on SoundCloud.

Find out her next performance on her calendar.

Check out the wide variety of her song list, so you know exactly what to request!

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Layered Lingerie Page 202 | ECLIPSE February 2016

Photography by Jordan Giant ECLIPSE February 2016 | Page 203

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Kim Rongyu Jacket - **DIRAM** - Blake Blazer Bra - Blacklace - Lavine Pants - Gizza - Voyage Silk Shoes - GoS Boutique - Grace Sandals Brooch and Earrings - Chop Zuey - Tiger Lily Bracelet - Chop Zuey - Pentecostal Ring - Chop Zuey - Deceptive Cadence Hair - Truth - Freya Bag - tulip - Zoar Lipstick - ::DS:: - Pretty Classique Eyeshadow - ::SG:: - Agatha Eyeliner - blackLiquid - Needle Black Liner ECLIPSE February 2016 | Page 205

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Lua Vendetta ** DIRAM ** JELENA Shoulder Coat - Suede ~Blacklace~ Anna: Peach Satin Chemise BAX Nude 20 Seams Arzu Frost 04 Eyeshadow ^^Swallow^^ Sabry Lipstick Frappuccino AZOURY - Thing Clutch Brown enVOGUE HAIR - Gisselle N-core KNOTTED “Nude” Page 208 | ECLIPSE February 2016

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Voices From the Grid is a monthly survey of opinions and ideas of Second LifeÂŽ residents on the salient issues of the day.

Valentine’s Day is coming so we are wondering if you want to share your thoughts on finding love in Second Life? Has it happened to you? Is it the same or different from finding love in your first life?

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Written by Cajsa Lilliehook ECLIPSE February 2016 | Page 213

Mona Sax MonaSax 95 is a young Italian woman living in Rome. She is the designer for Queen oF Ink and blogs at RQueenStyle. She loves photography and fashion and of course, Second Life.

I am here today to talk a little bit about me and about what I think about love. There is the love? Yes! Finding love in Second Life? Why not! I think that love can spread in a variety of shades and colors, and I think today where technology sopravvale a little everything, I think it can work. I know people who they meet here on Second Life are now deeply in love for years and married. If successful? Well that’s not me to say. I think it depends from person to person by whom we have before us is a little like the real thing in the end. It ‘the same or equal find love? I honestly do not know if it is the same or different than the reality, but no matter what I answer to this question is irrelevant, because everyone has their own vision of Second Life, some people think it’s just a game, there are those who instead thought to be a tool to learn about people and why not even find love. And possible to find love in a social but I really am convinced that the reality is something else.

The first looks, the first hug ... in my opinion is much nicer, but after all, who am I to judge?

Soon it’s Valentine’s Day and I hope that all those souls scattered abroad in search of their soul mate, remember one very important thing: the love comes at the exact moment you forget that it exists. Love exists, love will knock on the door of all.

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Photograph Mona2016 Sax| ECLIPSE by February

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Tania Tebaldi Tania Tebaldi is a model and blogger in Second Life.

She blogs at http://taniatebaldi.name. As a model, she has been honored as Miss Azul 2010 and was a runner up in Miss Virtual World 2011. She is excited about fashion and loves being able to express her style and aesthetics in Second Life.

Love, this extraordinary feeling, if you’re lucky you get straight to the heart. I see SL as a great way to find love or maybe it comes without you expecting it. I personally see no difference in knowing someone in RL or online. The memories you have when you meet someone in SL are unique and are as real as when you meet someone in RL. Besides allowing you to meet people from all over the world.

I for the love of someone changed from one continent to another. my advice, look for groups that are related to you, SL is full of groups. When you find a special person, honesty between both parties is essential, but pay attention to not honest, it never hurts to confirm who is behind the avatar, when we want to bring our love to a more realistic level.

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Ember Adored Ember Adored originally joined Second Life in 2007 She loves photography , blogging & has a minor...OK, major, hair obsession.

She loves to help other residents however she can.

If you would like to see what she gets up to , you can check out her work here: Flickr, Paperdolls Blog & Hair SL I believe love in Second Life is definitely possible!

I have been blessed to have had a few different and unique relationships myself and no matter how they turned out, I wouldn’t trade the experiences I had for the world! They have all taught me a great many things, most of which I more than likely, would not have learned in such a short space of time in Real Life.

I feel finding love in Second Life is quite different than in RL for a few reasons, namely; In Second Life you need to talk, talk and talk some more. We are in a chat room of sorts, therefore communication is key for any relationship to thrive.

2. We need to take into account too, that Second Life relationships can become emotionally intense much quicker than Real Life partnerships.

The reason for this primarily, is because we tend to show others only the personality traits that we wish them to see. We, in a way, create a persona that is perfection itself to attract the person we like while many negative traits can be hidden. That being said, Just be careful out there and remember that in Second Life , many people come here for the anonymity. Is it really love? Possibly but just be 200% sure of that person before handing over any RL info OK? Most relationships in Real Life, may start off with good communication skills and lots of times spent chatting, but after the honeymoon stage, work, family and other life stresses tend to get in the way. We tend to become more physical in our communicative abilities eg; cuddling in front of the television after a long day, rather than having those deep meaningful conversations!

Photograph by Ember Adored

I am taking what I learn here and trying hard to apply it to my RL relationships. Hoping that Second Life will aid in my growth as a lover and all around better person.

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Lycilla Resident

Finding love in second life? Act me! Well, Us! My RL husband an 2009. It certainly is a very differ life” approach, and refreshingly from the start (ironic, hiding be about looks and how shy you a for hours, getting to know a pe

Lycilla Resident has been in Second Life since 2009. Lycilla is her second avatar who quickly turned into her main character.

She thinks she is pretty much the same in both second and first life. She explains, “I’m a “Shy Dreamer”, with a great love for fashion.” After coming back to SL from a hiatus in 2013, she started out her blog called Were Fashion. Were Fashion is mostly focused on women’s apparel, and blogging is for her like Of course, there are challenges living her dream. in different countries and the f Page 220 | ECLIPSE February 2016

tually yes, it did happen to nd I met on second life in rent experience from the “first y so! You get to be yourself ehind an avatar ;) ), not worry actually are, as you are talking erson very intimately.

s on the way, like living fact that while you are virtually

sharing your “second life”, it comes down to a RL long distance relationship. It is an adventure, but real love is a strong force to reckon with that will always come through in the end - and before you know it, you move in together, you learn a new language and end up living happily ever after!

Her Blog.

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Rachel Price Rachel Price has been sampling the best in Second Life fashion in this and her previous incarnation for about six years now. She has been a full-time fashion blogger since September 2014, covering all the major designers and fashion events. In real life she is a student doing doctoral research in history and literature.

Second Life is an amazing place. When I first came to Second Life over five years ago I was intoxicated by the many possibilities it gave me to be whoever or whatever I liked! As a result I fell into and out of relationships with alarming speed in a way that I could and would never do in real life. In those days Second Life felt like a drug that gave me quick highs but in time I came to realise that to make the most of it I needed to find a purpose that went beyond cheap and shallow thrills and gave my own particular second life purpose and meaning.

I found that first in modelling for others and then in creating my own fashion blog which has been my total passion for the last couple of years, giving me real joy and satisfaction as I sampled the amazing fashion designers that abound here. Modelling now takes up almost all of time in SL, and time for meaningful relationships is brief. There was a man in my life who meant an awful lot to me, but he wanted more of my time than I was willing to give, though I still think fondly of him.

Despite this I’m still a total romantic at heart who has learnt from her experiences that just as in real life, the deeper the relationship is the stronger it is.

As Valentine’s Day approaches, I know that one day I will find true love in Second Life with someone who won’t mind me changing my look every other day and the fact that they might only see me every alternate Tuesday!

Her Blog.

Her Flickr.

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Photograph by Rachel Price

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Photograph by Pau Rubi Dexler

Pau Rubi Dexler Pau Rubi Dexler is from Argentina and has been in SL since 2010. At the beginning, in her eagerness to keep improving her avatar, she spent a long time from store to store looking for gifts and designs that she liked. That is what inspired her and her husband Josep to form “JP and Friends” group where they could share all this information, soon after she created the blog “JP blog” to share the information in visual format. She is currently working as a blogger which fills her with great pride.

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For me the best way to find the love in S desperately and learning to wait in calm you have in SL is to find love, this can be surely you will not find the real love, I th wonderful place and if love comes is bec we just need to welcome it.

Fortunately I found love in SL, Josep and years and I consider myself a very lucky relationship of mutual fellowship and co not something that happens very easily Finding love in SL for me it is not the sam

SL is without looking m, if the only objective ecome an obsession and hink we should enjoy this cause it had to come and

to be very careful and not confuse love with a passing infatuation.

Of course this also occur in RL and indeed several times, but in SL the love can be more like a idyll as it is an very apt place to the romance.

Valentine’s Day is an opportunity to remember and cherish love and friendship

d I are married for over 4 person, because we have a omplicity and I know this is y. me as in real life, you have

If you have a love, shows how much he loves of the best way as you can imagine... and if you still have not, remember Cupid is Looking for hearts in these day to launch his arrow, maybe your heart be the lucky. Well I hope you all enjoy this day in the best way.

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Morgana Hilra Morgana Hilra has been in Second Life in one way or another since 2003 and has seen many changes. She has also participated in almost everything SL has to offer. Be it as a creator or as a blogger, her current vocation. She blogs at So Hawt SL. She tries to help new and veteran residents with either shopping, photoshop, or just random concerns and issues they need assistance with. Helping others makes her very happy.. however, she wants readers to know she is human, and sometime.. though it’s hard to admit, she needs help too. She thinks of herself as a simple person who loves to shop, write and be happy...while taking others along for the ride.

Have I personally found love in Second Life?

Yes.. in many forms. I have found the love of family, friends, confidants, and a special person.

Love has so many meanings. A mutual respect for one another. Openness, honesty, kinship.

The feeling that you can trust each other with your feelings, secrets... inner most thoughts.

I think in Second Life, things are easier than in the “real world� because, no matter what people say, there is always that first initial appearance reaction whereas in Second Life.. that appearance is whatever you wish it to be, Sort of a false impression.. so, people are introduced to the personality before anything else.

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The Proust Spotlight is our monthly feature where we highlight one of the many creative residents of Second Life速. Utilizing the Proust Questionnaire, whose namesake comes from the late 19th century French writer, we will offer a glimpse into what makes them tick.

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Vin Cinquetti is a talented model, blogger and stylist. “Even though I was asked to highlight myself in this intro, I would actually like to take this opportunity to point out a few significant people in my Second Life. I feel these individuals have influenced my SL in different, impactful ways. First, a TRUE friend from back when I started SL 10 yrs ago, Lollypop Extraordinare. No longer inworld but she was one that gave me hope that exceptional, extraordinary friends and people can be found in this virtual reality. The second person is someone who encouraged me to blog in the first place, Haylzstorm Secretspy. She insisted I had a different view of fashion and style in SL and that I should share it for all to see. Another person that has certainly made an impression on my presence in this world is Zai Jewell. Zai encouraged me to try different endeavors in SL, like modeling and competitions. I appreciate them all each and individually.”

What is your ideal of perfect happiness?

My ideal of perfect happiness is a happy every after with your soul mate. I think spending the rest of my life with someone I can call my best friend and lover, would be all I need. Everything else will fall into place.

Which words or phrases do you most overuse?

LOL. I laugh a lot and it doesn’t take much to make me laugh.

What do you consider your greatest achievement?

In Second Life, I would have to say working hard on my blog and improving enough to be accepted onto The Men’s Dept blogger team. Each and every one of my sponsors are people and businesses I personally selected to represent. So to be a blogger for each of them is a great accomplishment for my Second Life.

What do you most value in your friends?

What I value most in friends is honesty and loyalty. Sadly, that’s asking a lot in this virtual world called Second Life. After 10 years of meeting different people and experiencing a lot of different personalities, Id like to say I have a more keen sense for finding true friends in Second Life. These are all the same things I value in my “real-life” friends.

What is your motto?

The golden rule...ethic of reciprocity. I am a true believe in karma and reaping what you sow.

What is your most marked characteristic?

I would like to think my kindness and empathy. Everybody has a bad day but I try not to let me bad days impact others.Not sayign it has never happened, there was only One that was perfect. I don’t think Vin Cinquetti has many enemies, if so...they have never met me, personally to get to know me.

What is your most treasured possession? ok im going real life on this answer and Id have to say my 1991 Jeep Wrangler Renegade. A classic and rare collectible among Jeep enthusiasts. Not many vehicles are as durable as Jeep and at 25 years of age, this 4x4 can still off road like no other.

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The Adventures of...

Exploring Alpha Tribe Page 242 | ECLIPSE February 2016

Photography by Miele Tarantal ECLIPSE February 2016 | Page 243