Domino, also known as bones, pieces, men, stones or cards, is a small flat rectangular block used for gaming. Dominoes are usually twice as long as they are wide and feature a line down the middle to separate the two identically patterned sides into squares. Each square is marked with an arrangement of dots, called pips, similar to the spots on a die. The number of pips on each side determines the value of the domino, with those having more pips being considered to be “heavier” than those with fewer pips.
The domino game was developed in France shortly after 1750, and the word appeared in English around the same time. Earlier, domino denoted a long hooded cloak worn together with a mask during carnival season or at a masquerade; the name may have been inspired by this garment’s contrast with the white surplice of a priest. In either case, the domino has always been associated with luck and chance.
In the world of comic books, Domino is a mutant who has the ability to subliminally and psionically initiate random telekinetic acts that affect probability in her favor. For example, she can cause improbable events to occur within her line of sight, such as an enemy’s equipment malfunction or the sudden emergence of a new threat. This ability is largely subconscious and uncontrolled, but it can also be used consciously when Domino is in a situation that requires her to protect herself or those she cares about.
When Domino first teamed up with Cable in the X-Men, she joined him on his search for the Weapon X program’s secret Neverland base in Florida. There she had a volatile run-in with the fanatical group of quasi-priests led by Flagsmasher and almost died when the Hecatomb flooded the island base. Following this, Domino reunited with Six Pack and fought the Hecatomb again. Later, she was recruited by G. W. Bridge to be a member of his new task force against the Punisher.
Domino has a strong and varied background that includes both military service and private detective work. She has also portrayed the character of Domino in several television and movie projects. In addition to directing, she has written screenplays and books on the subject of personal finance and home ownership. She is a frequent guest on various TV shows and radio programs to discuss these topics. Domino has also appeared in a number of commercials and other public relations activities for her company, Domino’s Pizza. Domino’s success can primarily be attributed to the fact that it was one of the first major chain restaurants in the United States to place its pizzerias near college campuses, where many young people were looking for quick and cheap food. This strategy has helped the company remain competitive in a market crowded with fast-food competitors. Domino’s is currently the second largest pizza company in the United States, after Pizza Hut. Its estimated annual sales in 2004 was more than $1.5 billion.