Even as a prep day, Tuesday is now crammed with faces and activity. While inside the convention center, a massive Avengers display took shape at the Marvel booth, outside Tr!ckster made a sparkling debut, and a line of themed carnivals took shape along the railroad tracks.

The big news outside the convention center was the soft opening for Tr!ckster, the comics-themed offsite event, showcasing independent comics creators. While it was still evolving — prints and posters set up in front of industrial sized stoves — the wares on display look sharp.

The life drawing classes — led by two gorgeous models — were well attended, and the bar got a shake-down cruise. As Tr!ckster is held inside the San Diego Wine and Culinary Center, the wines are quality — we enjoyed a stunning dry rose from the south of Italy last night.