"Mark Millar is believed to be writing the very first, the launch book, but expect to see a lot of very different books from some very different people, creator-owned, creator-participant and work-for-hire.

"Also look for work coming from the individuals he chose as 'stars of the future', people he promised to help give a leg up. Namely Mark Peyton, Brandon Thomas and Barb Lien."

The versions I got were less charitable in their descriptions of the deals Marvel was offering. The creator-owned titles are being reserved for big-name creators who've been kicking in with the work-for-hire, as a reward for services rendered; that means Millar, Bendis and maybe Grant Morrison if he wants it. No others need apply, unless they've got "adult" superhero titles that they want to sell to Marvel lock, stock and barrel. Yes, you heard me right — more pervert suits, and Marvel keeps everything. The new Epic will bear little resemblence to the one that came before.

"Creator-participant"? I've heard nothing about that, but this little euphemism reeks so badly I can smell it on the other side of the continent. Folks, Marvel isn't even honoring its contractual obligations to Stan Lee, for crying out loud. My sources are telling me that the non-Millar deals will be work-for-hire or something so close that it won't make any difference. I smell sucker-bait. If you're a cartoonist being fed this particular line, do yourself a favor and hire a lawyer to look at the contract before you sign that dotted line — it may not save you a screwing, but at least you'll know a little more about what you're getting into.