Friday 12 April 2019

Estuarine mud and museums


Good to see the wide variety of choices picked for last week, while I spent an enjoyable couple of days in the unanticipated sunshine of Kingston-upon-Hull. Congratulations to Dave for coming out on top of the popular vote.

My shortlist for this week began just as numerous and I have to confess to being unable to choose between  a final three: Terrie for entry 55  of The Secret Armadillo Soldier (SAS) Diaries, Holly for the stunning descriptions and appeals to every sense, seen so vividly in ‘Enthralled’ and David T for the clever uniqueness of ‘The Cauldron Pouch’. Thank you all for yet another week of high class entries.

Words for next week: burnish log worsen

Entries by midnight (GMT) Thursday 18th April, words posted Friday 19th

Usual rules: 100 words maximum (excluding title) of flash fiction or poetry using all of the three words above in the genres of horror, fantasy, science fiction or noir. Serialised fiction is, as always, welcome. All variants and uses of the words and stems are fine. Feel free to post links to your stories on Twitter or Facebook or whichever social media you prefer.

120 comments:

  1. Thank you Sandra for sitting me alongside such estimable talent as Holly and David T this week; although I also have to say that everyone who contributes to this site has talent by the shed loads .
    I generally feel that my offerings lack in that special little ‘whooomft’ that hits you in the pit of the belly when you read something memorable because I still struggle with that innate feeling of ‘wordiness’ and wanting to create something epic. The 100-word story limit is a true challenge every week for me- which is why I opt for the serialisation approach.
    This week I have a new printer and have printed off chapters 1-3 and the start of chapter 4 of the SAS diaries - just to see if the writing flows as I want it to. I am pleased to report that I have a good foundation for a story that just keeps falling out of my head and onto the page /pc thanks to ‘The Prediction.’

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    1. Believe you me, Terrie, and against all odds considering my dislike of tales involving metamorphosising (?) animals, your pieces very rarely fail to deliver 'whoomft'. On several levels.

      I'm glad (but not surprised) they work well en masse. One recurring problem with mine when I do that is they can be (as one friend said) a bit over-rich, like Christmas pudding.

      And I recognise how prompts can often kick-start something bigger - from one site in particular (aided by others) I've 'grown' four full-length novels.

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    2. Congrats to our trio of winners from last week.

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    3. sorry ... brain slow and then me busy - I meant 'anthropomorphorsising, of course.

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    4. congrats to the winners! this is such a good writing workout for us all, I'll get back to stand alones one fine week, when the migraines let me and the cats are sleeping... one's been creeping around me now, don't know what he wants, he's been fed. I think this is his pre-sleep restlessness kicking in again. It's like having two permanent toddlers who don't speak English but understand well enough...

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  2. Ooh, three of my favorite writers. Congrats Terrie, Holly and David T.

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  3. Another day in the hood

    He walked the logging trail with burnished axe resting on his shoulder.

    “Ahoy fair maiden,” the woodcutter said.

    “Oh my, he did it. He ate Grandma.”

    “Where is he?”

    “Over there,” she pointed.

    The stricken wolf leaned against a tree, holding his bloated belly.

    “Your symptoms are about to worsen,” the woodcutter said, testing the edge on his blade.

    “Just do it and get it over with.” The wolf burped loudly. “I can’t believe I ate the whole thing.”

    The woodcutter found not Grandma, but a long dead reeking possum in the gullet.

    He turned to Red.

    “Whoops,” she said.

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    Replies
    1. Oops, a great ending line. Nice set up and I loved the twist on an old classic. Maybe I should write an animal story?

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    2. jdeegan536@yahoo.com17 April 2019 at 01:29

      This is marvelous stuff, John. What a great twist on the classic tale!

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    3. Whoops indeed - and this a prime example of the unique mix of laconic and menace you so often bring to your writing.

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    4. tis OK, I love them... and this is brilliant!

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    5. A burping wolf. What an image! I'm not so sure Red didn't know exactly what she was doing, which begs the question...what DID happen to Grandma?

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  4. Oh great. I posted this story, then I read Sandra dislikes animal stories.

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    1. Made me chuckle though..... and perhaps Sandra wont mind the odd anthropomorphic tale trickling into the weekly offerings as long as they tickle her horror-bone.

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    2. Dead right Terrie - good writing overcome all.

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  5. Congratulations to Holly, Terrie and David Y for their excellent works this week. But then, I expect nothing less from them.

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  6. The First Battle: We Move in.

    They arrived at Battalion HQ, close to the burnished one-fifty-five’s, in perfect rows, like steel log Quaker cannons. It took seventy-five minutes to reach their new home.
    Time to get my cherubs working.
    “I want those eight-one potato throwers center. Two light lead spitters and a heavy at each OP. A light every 100 between the OP”s. Delta Company is reserve; Alpha has seven, then Baker, and Charlie at thirteen. Now move it, this should have been done yesterday you jar-heads. The enemy will only make it worse. A warm dinner better be ready in two hours, a briefing after.”

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    Replies
    1. Love the no-nonsense military lingo. Would hate to be on the receiving end of this guy, if it is indeed a guy.

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    2. Sorry to say that I'm not much up to snuff on military lingo so much of it was beyond my true comprehension. Still. I appreciate the theme and this was a tightly written episode.

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    3. Although, like Patricia, my military terminology is less than sound, I still felt that no-nonsense military feel to the story. You incorporated the prompt words with such ease. I really liked 'steel log Quaker cannons' image as well as the military feel of orderliness the whole story conjured.

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  7. What a magnificent triumvirate of winners this week. Such talent certainly makes me, for one, strive to do better. Many congratulations to Holly, Terrie and David T.

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  8. Wishful

    The swimming hole with its boundary of fallen logs was a favourite haunt for local kids but when B.J. found the old lamp, everyone else had gone home. Although a bit worse for wear, B.J. knew exactly what it was. He couldn't believe his luck!

    He used a towel to burnish the dull metal and thought about what to ask for. He grinned as smoky swirls emerged from the spout.

    B.J. was discovered face down in the shallows. A novice dog-paddler at best, it was assumed he'd drowned.

    And not every Djinn is obligated to grant its liberator three wishes.

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    1. Another great rewrite of a classic. Excellent job Patricia. Like how you used the prompts.

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    2. This is probably more accurate than most genie stories. I for one, would never trust a Djinn. All that power would turn anyone evil, I think.

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    3. Oh - you've shattered my illusions! But so entertainingly I've no choice but to forgive. ;-)

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    4. you can work with a djinn, if you're prepared to befriend them, they quite like human companions but quickly get bored, which is why not everyone gets their wishes answered... they're smoke elementals, alongside fairies, who are butterfly elementals, green men, nature elementals...
      way off topic. Lovely little cautionary tale, Patricia!

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    5. A little bit of everything in this tale Patricia; great re-write of a well known tale brilliant insertion of the prompt words and a definite warning that things don't often turn out as you expect them to.

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  9. Someone Always Knows Your Secret.


    He hadn’t walked this trail for some time, but the bog-frogs, snakes and small furry wild-things remembered him. Delicate sundews, snapping shut as he passed, knew the shadow-less figure too. They remembered the stench of death floating with him when he came. Even worse, they had all cowered in the moonlight; witnessing what he did.
    Bog-water glistened like burnished sap in starlight as he picked his way carefully through the squelch of mud.
    Smiling, he kicked carefully at the peat.
    It looked like a log, but he knew it was a leg from the body he’d buried there years before.

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    Replies
    1. A new series, I hope. Glistened like burnished sap was good. A good last line.

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    2. jdeegan536@yahoo.com17 April 2019 at 01:25

      Very nice, Terrie... so smooth and clear, such vivid descriptions!

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    3. This shadow-less figure is the real deal I think. Now, all we need to know is: why is he back? A well written piece, Terrie, very eloquent.

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    4. Ever-rising menace amidst (despite?) the beauty of the words.

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    5. definitely another one to follow through, Terrie!

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    6. On so very nasty in the most enjoyable of ways. Love the idea of death being a floating stench...but that's just one of the many captivating descriptions that pepper this piece.

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  10. Cripplegate Junction/Part 185 - Manifest And Manifold

    The Conductor had last seen the crematorium urns in the Signal Box. But there they were on the platform. Metal ones anyway. Bold as brass and twice as burnished. The waiting crowd had dwindled considerably since arrival of the lugubrious receptacles.

    Someone in a hoity-toity manner was demanding to know why undesirables had been allowed access to premium carriages. It was part of the Conductor's duties to settle such fracases but control over the entire passenger situation was worsening.

    He used to have a traveller log with assigned seats.

    Didn't he?

    He thought he did.

    Once upon a time.

    ---------------------------------------------------------
    To read the earlier installments (a suggestion only) which led to this point in the tale please visit:
    http://www.novareinna.com/cripplegate.html
    A link to return to "The Prediction" can be found on the site. Thank you.
    ----------------------------------------------------------

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    1. Interesting, most fairy tales start with once upon a time. Another well written episode, Patricia.

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    2. The Conductor's job is difficult at best if not impossible. Loved the last 4 lines. A well written enjoyable piece.

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    3. Lovely sense of increasing frazzlement in this, I especially enjoyed 'Bold as brass and twice as burnished'

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    4. definitely frazzlement (lovely word, Sandra!) and a sense of panic among the passengers too. This can only end in disaster!!

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    5. I really enjoy how the Cripplegate story keeps the reader on their toes each week . you never know what is going to crop up next and even when you think you know … you don't.

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  11. Congrats Dave! And thank you so much for the mention. :) I'm honored to be included with Terrie and David T.

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  12. To Kill a Manticore

    The knight was perched on a log by the fire. Although his armour had been burnished, the dents and creases were visibly obvious. His hands shook. His face was wrinkled and scarred.
    ‘You killed the Wyvern?’ asked Christabel.
    ‘Forty odd years ago,’ sighed the knight. His breath reeked of fermented ale. His condition worsened, armour rattling to his palsied trembles.
    ‘There’s a manticore on the rampage,’ said Christabel. ‘We need a champion.’
    The knight clattered to his feet and struck an awkward pose. ‘I’m your man.’
    Christabel groaned. This wasn’t going to end well.

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    1. David, you told the story of this knight marvelously in a few words. His aging body, his past deeds, a drinker, and then his apparent last act of bravery pending. Well done.

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    2. Thank you for 'manticore'! And for this wonderful scene, so succinctly played out.

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    3. oh I like this, such a vivid description of the lead character, great writing.

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    4. jdeegan536@yahoo.com17 April 2019 at 19:26

      A battle-worn knight, loyalty, gallantry, courage despite the obstacles. It's all here, David. Well done!

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    5. An aged knight who stands ready to answer the call once more when valour is needed most. Almost certainly a survivor from Camelot. And shame on Christabel for not believing. I'm sure this gallant will be up to the task and prove her wrong. Most unique take on the prompts.

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    6. What a great descriptive scene you have created, David. In turns vibrant, heroic and sad. I really like this. Thankyou.

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  13. Wonderfully written scene, David. I was easily able to envision this. Shades of The Man From LaMancha graced my mind. A very well done story and use of prompts.

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  14. For The Asking

    Henry spent hours logged onto his computer. Aside from the enjoyability aspect, it had been particularly beneficial since his health had worsened. He didn't get out much any more but there was nothing he couldn't find via Google. Undeniably useful!

    Henry had ordered and acquired a plethora of items, including LaSeur knives with their blades of carbon steel and burnished brass handles. Artisinal and crafted to exact specifications. Not cheap, but worth every penny. Undeniably useful!

    Henry often felt the need for companionship. Again, not cheap but worth every penny.

    There was nothing Henry couldn't find via Google.

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    1. Trademark nastiness, putting creepy horror into my head. Again.

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    2. Makes me wonder who I'm dealing with online sometimes... nice little cautionary tale.

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    3. jdeegan536@yahoo.com17 April 2019 at 19:13

      One wonders if Henry is perhaps pushing his luck with Google. 'Nothing Henry couldn't find via Google' may well be ominous. Nicely done, Patricia!

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    4. One must be careful of the trail Google leaves, unless you have nothing to hide, which in Henry's case, may not be. Great piece.

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    5. Google has a lot to answer for, and so, I fear, will Henry at some point very soon. A tale beginning to ooze insidiousness x Very clever Patricia.

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  15. Oh, this is a good one Patricia. On-line shopping at it's best(worst?) nice use of the prompts.

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  16. The Secret Armadillo Soldier (SAS) Diaries - entry 57

    Tosca heard Nigel muttering and grinned. His eyes glittered, bright as burnished gems. Cheerfully, he patted the koala’s wooden leg, ‘‘Ope yu’ kin keep up wiv us me log-legged friend. No time t’ be coddlin’ a straggler yu’ know.’
    Cinereus raised an eyebrow, ‘You look like a straggler yourself … Friend.’
    Nigel was grateful for Tosca’s banter. The koala made him feel uneasy; it always felt as though the prophet was picking thoughts from your head.
    Cinereus fixed his gaze on Nigel, and smirked.
    Sarg watched them: A thief, a warrior, and a mystic.
    Things could be worse, she mused.

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    1. Terrie, a nice slow-down episode, good banter and character development. A very good story.

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    2. Yer another wonderfully inventive use of the prompts - 'me log-legged friend' - I keep wanting to say how human, but that sounds somehow patronising, which is not at all what I mean!!

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    3. the story moves ever onward even as the characters become more real. That takes writing skill. Don't doubt yourself.

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    4. It's hard to picture a cute koala having dis-likable qualities, but Cinereus does seem to rub others the wrong way. Yes, things could be worse, and likely will be.

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    5. A "log-legged" friend. Marvelously "pegged" by Sandra as a top phrase. I wonder if there's a joke that begins, "A thief, a warrior, and a mystic" walk into a bar. It's amazing how this story continues to move forward without feeling rushed in any way.

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    6. A thief, a warrior and a mystic walk into a bar. The thief made off with the warriors medals. The warrior went berserk, rampaging and trashing the place, killing a few patrons in the melee. The mystic sat in the corner and shook his head. “I knew this was going to happen.”

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  17. Stripping for inaction [Threshold 244]

    For reasons unfathomable Raven remained shut-eyed and supine. I doubted he’d seen the the gleam of burnished bronze around the younger man’s throat. A torc, not twisted, as was usual but beaten smooth; engraved with Celtic spirals.
    In which case he was out of place. Invader.
    Not that we were rightly here.

    Lolita having slid to hide behind a log, I decided whatever I did could hardly worsen the situation and scrambled to standing, leaving shift behind. Naked, scarred and weeping scabs I raised my chin in challenge.
    If nothing else, I’d give him pause.
    And allow Raven breathing time.

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    1. Very good descriptions and narration, Sandra. Softly and tightly written and you upped the tension as well. Very good story.

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    2. plenty of 'what will happen next' with this instalment. Tight writing, as usual.

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    3. Nothing like a little nudity to spice things up, despite the weeping scars. You've got to hand it to this girl... she's got guts.

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    4. I'm beginning to doubt if there is anything our protagonist will not do or sacrifice for Raven. I hope the breathing time bought for Raven proves to be a fruitful endeavour. As always, we are left with a cliffhanger until next time.

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    5. A steadfast heroine lead, a darkly mysterious enticing anti hero whose past keeps threatening to expose long hidden secrets and an ongoing storyline that keeps me wondering what is coming next. I do like this tale.

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  18. jdeegan536@yahoo.com17 April 2019 at 01:14

    SIGNS 1V: THE FINAL SIGN

    While being drawn toward the mysterious vapor, my fear worsened. But almost immediately a soothing tingle flowed through me. Simultaneously, my fear dissipated.

    In seconds I became the vapor - an undulating stream of amber light that looked back upon a pile of clothes, remnants of what I was.

    Other vapors surrounded me, their translucent faces radiating a pure, selfless joy. They led me to a lectern holding an ancient book, a log of sorts, that was filled with names burnished in gold.

    The last name recorded was mine.

    A sign formed above the book. Upon it the word WELCOME

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    1. Ah ... things are looking up then? Or not?

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    2. beautifully drawn images with a few words, Jim.

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    3. I kept waiting for the hammer to drop, but perhaps there is hope for our hero. Nicely done.

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    4. So...our adventurer appears to have been a critical part of the lingering ambience all along. Nice twist here and I can't wait to see where it goes. I have a feeling all still might not be well.

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    5. I really enjoy tales like this - where you are not sure if what you think will happen.. actually happens - or if something really unexpected is going to play out instead. Wonderful use of the prompt words and clever twist in the last couple of sentences.

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  19. Jeffrey here. What an enjoyable and unexpected ending. I read it several times. Predestination at its best. Good prompt use and flow.

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  20. The Secret Armadillo Soldier (SAS) Diaries - entry 58


    Undertaking two simultaneous missions was a challenge; it made Atlas’s head ache.
    He executed a hurried detour, spending tense moments in hushed conversation, before scuttling away toward Rat Bottom Gully where Sarg had originally sent him.

    The sun beat onto his back as he ran and thirst dried his throat.
    Snouting a dwindling pool, he discovered an oily, burnished, sheen floated thickly on its surface.
    Poisoned, he thought and rooted under a nearby log, hoping to find something wet to slake his thirst.

    He heard them before he saw them, and quickly hid.
    Gerbils.
    The ache in his head worsened.

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    Replies
    1. Good solid story but just what is Atlas upto? Burnished sheen was a good use of the prompt.

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    2. I'm sure Atlas will deal with them but he certainly deserves a rest first.

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    3. jdeegan536@yahoo.com17 April 2019 at 16:46

      You describe Atlas's predicament so well, Terrie. I'm anxious to see what's next.

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    4. and another progression! It goes well, so it does.

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    5. Oh great, the gerbils again. What pains in the asses.

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    6. Totally astounding how you can create two separate continuations using the same prompt words for each. Even more astounding is the entertainment factor that comes with both. These are such enjoyable reads, but I'm afraid you have spoiled us horribly with your weekly dual entries.

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    7. Patricia, I noticed too that Terrie has been including two scenes with each prompt. What an undertaking to make this come together so nicely. It's like a television series where there is often more than one themes per episode. I just hope Pink Fairy doesn't get too upset there wasn't a third.

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  21. Change of focus 324

    The interview room no less savoury than those he regularly worked in, Pettinger sat where indicated. They’d logged him in three hours ago; did the mandatory twenty-four before charge or release apply here?
    The Vice DI and deputy entered. Seated themselves opposite. Where she was blunt-ended tank he had the slender menace of a rapier burnished to deliver silver-plated questions demanding answers of precision. A talent Pettinger could not help but admire: the truth could hardly worsen the situation.
    Enter the translator. She the girl who, decades ago, had christened him ‘Virichamocho’*.
    He hoped she remembered the occasion with kindness.

    [* Used in episode 129, defined as 'donkey-hung' I thought this genuine, but Google denies its existence.]

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    1. Google doesn't know everything - yet -
      an instalment to take us onward and keep us in suspense too.

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    2. Pettinger's Vinchamocho kind of got him into this mess and possibly may get him out. Who says size doesn't matter?

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    3. Google obviously fails to possess any sense of the dramatic. Some gorgeous character descriptions here. I refuse to fear for Pettinger's safety. He is an opportunistic man of many talents and will find a way out. Yes he will! Won't he....?

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    4. As always this story offers action, intrigue and a protagonist who engenders empathy yet keeps hitting the reader with such spicy whiffs of elementally dangerous to know vibes you cant stop wanting to know what happens next. This tale has everything a well written story should contain and has it in spadesful.

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  22. A very enjoyable episode. Being in the hands of an'adult liaison' was an excellent line. Good tight writing.

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  23. Stop the Week; I Want To Get Off (43)
    The result of turning things around is a rummage basket full of brass. It needs burnishing. Today a customer recommended a quick clean. Shaun did ask me to log every sale to see what sold best, I gave up after three weeks, the diversity is so great there is no way to get a sensible result. Tools, furniture, books, kitchen items, wrought iron gates… my only worry is that his bad back has not been helped by six hour coach journeys and a delivery job in the evening can only worsen it. We have to see how it goes.

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    1. Antonia, it seems whatever weekly words I post, you manage to make your week fit perfectly around them - THAT takes skill!!

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    2. I agree with Sandra that it must be hard to find space for some of the prompt words when writing of true events. But you pull it off nicely, as does the Italian, but i see him lingering below, so off i go.

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    3. I'm with the previous comments that it's truly amazing how you manage to weave the prompt words into each weekly scenario and have them not be out of place in the least. Sandra said it takes skill and I would like to add that it also takes talent!

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    4. Oooh Antonia what a great word - I do love a good rummage ..Your weekly instalments about your daily shop situation is really addictive and so well done. I also agree heartily with the above comments regarding fitting prompt words around your weekly workplace wordsmithing. Looking forward to next week with anticipation.

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    5. Jeffrey again. Like a slice of home baked pie, tart and sweet. Very nicely used prompts.

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  24. The Mad Italian 102
    The decision to delay exist has worsened the situation for the country and the MPs. Now who can they turn to, they of false burnished reputations and egos, those who log every penny spent to be reclaimed in expenses, false or otherwise… the decision to delay is a torment for all, whilst other protestors demand change to save the planet whilst blocking the free passage of those who might well be instrumental in such a thing. Foolishness lies in demonstrations of any kind, this is the most foolish of all for it will result in no more than damaged reputations.

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    1. I can feel the Italian's frustration with the ongoing dealings. It seems like one delay after the next...

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    2. These deliberations are really taking far too long...or so it seems to an outsider looking in. Talk about dragging feet. I feel Leonardo isn't too fond of procrastination.

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    3. I think many of us in the midst of this situation feel as our esteemed Italian does.
      I have been likening the procrastinators and naysayers to a room full of squabbling pre-schoolers. Worse still, as Leonardo has previously logged, the burnished eyes of the world are on us. Long may Leonardo's wise musings offer a little light in times of confused 'ditherings'.

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    4. Jeffrey here. When there is no clear majority governing is very difficult. Government however continues. Jousting against the windmills belonging to the opposition. A very well done episode.

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  25. Kursaal (Episode One Hundred Fifty Nine) - "idée Incognito"

    In theory, the Suggestion Box was an admirable notion. It contained proposals for original attractions such as a "Loop-De-Loop Log Ride" and "The Burnished Bramble" where patrons might roam a labyrinth of prickly scrambling shrubs and pick wild blackberries (basket provided for the experience).

    Unfortunately, the Suggestion Box was rarely found in the same location twice leading to the number of recommendations being somewhat thin. Even worse, there were never any names attached to the proposition packages, so implementation was virtually nil.

    Nobody laid claim to any of the Suggestion Box plans and most of the workforce denied its existence.

    ---------------------------------------------------------
    To read the earlier installments (a suggestion only) which led to this point in the tale, please visit:
    http://www.novareinna.com/kursaal.html
    A link to return to "The Prediction" can be found on the site. Thank you.
    ---------------------------------------------------------

    NOTE: This installment references no previous episodes.

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    1. I almost enjoyed the NOTE as much as the story. Very clever.

      I'm just sitting here in awe, trying to decide what to write. I just love this elusive suggestion box. I for one will forego the loopty-loop log ride (are they even strapped in?) and I'll buy my blackberries at the farmer's market (brambles be damned). Very good, Patricia.

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    2. Yes indeed, a challenge I'm failing to meet too.

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    3. As usual tales of the Kursaal leave the reader with a sense of spine tingling wonderment. Brilliant interpretation of the prompt words and a feeling that no matter what suggestions are put into the box they will not be interpreted, or acted upon, in any manner expected.

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  26. Recycling

    Eyes closed, scarlet-faced, hands grasping and legs frantically pumping ... yes, you’re right, that was the father.
    His choosing condoms for their fancy names – ‘Burnished Spear’, ‘Silvered Shaft’ – never mind that they were packed in some third world country, sharing workspace with a dozen cacti) the reason why, ten months later, his son was doing just the same (only difference he lacked teeth)
    And yes again - lazy sod now sleeps log-like, expecting me to do the changing, feeding and (literally) all that shit.
    I know no nappies down the toilet, but I checked today and yes, the rubbish chute is man-sized.

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    1. jdeegan536@yahoo.com17 April 2019 at 23:54

      Great title, Sandra, and a very creative tale. Someone is in for a rough awakening. Nicely done!

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    2. Suitable title for an equally suitable "lazy sod" of a father. Wonder how she is going to actually "execute" the deed. This is luverly stuff!

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    3. Belatedly realised would've been better if I had man clutching baby. :-(

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    4. Your tales are always wonderfully creative and contain sharp and cleverly constructed sentences with wickedly unexpected twists in the final lines.
      Skilfully done Sandra.

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  27. Postpartum blues perhaps? Or tired of the lazy sod; both with deadly consequences. Very enjoyable, Sandra. I would never have thought of Burnished Spear condoms as a solution to the prompt word.

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  28. The Watercolourist
    (with u’s added to honour UK dwellers)

    She chose her colours carefully; raw sienna, yellow ochre, burnished slate. She loved the earth tones.

    Her subject posed, stoic and slightly stooped, still life to a fault. Her mainstay was abstract landscapes so she skillfully added trees, boulders, a log or two.

    Lightly, she sketched his form with a nearly dry brush. His pallor had worsened but no worries; she was a master at adding colour. She glanced at the bloodied stiletto on the floor and marveled at how still he finally sat.

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    1. All the entries this week have been so rich with descriptions and this is no exception. I had to chuckle at how she had "no worries" at the worsening pallor. Will the bloodied stiletto make a cameo appearance in the finished product I wonder.

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    2. What a sneaky giveaway, that 'still life to a fault, and thank you for the consideration of my sensitivity regarding watercolour. I especially covet 'burnished slate.

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    3. Jeffrey here on dinner. Good models are so hard to find these days. Very good story John.

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  29. jdeegan536@yahoo.com18 April 2019 at 17:03

    How expertly you put us in the devious mind of the artist, John! Well done!

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  30. The Adventures of Rosebud, Pirate Princess #175
    A Bad Morning


    Well now, that’s too much. I’m beginning to think that princess has a weather mage. My tree’s entirely burnished with ice and there’s the rotting log underneath. Hmm.
    “Oh stable hand, bring me a ladder and you’ll live.”
    “Yes sir,” he squeaked.
    He seems properly scared, maybe my day won’t worsen.
    “Here sir, may I leave now? I promise not to say anything.”
    “You may go, but if you talk I will hunt you down.”

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    Replies
    1. Bad morning, maybe, but vividly depicted. Thank you Rosia,

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  31. pleased to see so many comments this week, makes me feel a little better. I've just been through 24 hours of acid reflux, left me very weak and tottery, so no comments until I and the fingers have recovered!! apologies...

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