So I’ve no intention of offering them
as prompt words. what I am giving you is an opportunity to choose your
favourite post which uses the words below, because I shall be away at a Crime
and Publishment weekend; picking up tips on how to write and pitching ‘Drink
with a dead man’ to an attending publisher.
This, of course, another week of
richness on offer, for which I thank you, and am delighted to declare Terri
the winner for her third episode of ‘Gathering magic’ – the whole of it
enchanting.
Words for next week: broke elaborate key
Entries
by midnight (GMT) Thursday 20th February,
new words posted Friday 21st
STOP PRESS: https://www.philsloman.com/2020/02/the-prediction-one-time-only.html?fbclid=IwAR2uPpe7G1VEnwwYYuT4FTvoy6hmB5qHbGaSli_b-akaICQGdNdcnKH6HTM
STOP PRESS: https://www.philsloman.com/2020/02/the-prediction-one-time-only.html?fbclid=IwAR2uPpe7G1VEnwwYYuT4FTvoy6hmB5qHbGaSli_b-akaICQGdNdcnKH6HTM
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.
Snap: Not his only problem
ReplyDeleteTheo obtained the code for the inner door, copied the key to the outer months ago. That not the problem. (Bigger had been who to ask; Lucy had loyal friends). Nor had been the elaborate lengths he’d gone to to gain Jo Freedom’s trust (sex the bonus there as well).
He'd not enjoyed the loss of trust, the pressure put upon him by those he’d assumed civilised. They too had friends, who didn’t trouble to hide the evilness of their intent.
No. The problem was no place to hide, having heard the commotion as the police broke down the door.
Yes, I see Theo's dilemma. Too many people with evil intent and poor Theo poised to take the fall. Time for him to come up with some evasive action.
DeleteTerri, a very well deserved kudo for your story taking the top spot last week.
DeleteAnd so you return with a killer contribution that was easily worthy of the top spot. So great to have you back, Terri.
Deletecongrats, Terrie, you've been missed and how great to see you back at the top!
DeleteAlmost missed this one. So glad I want back and rechecked, Sandra.
DeleteThe Bray Chronicles
ReplyDeleteBartholomew Bray and Barty Reed stood over the broken, mutilated body of the Moroccan aide.
“Nice work,” Bartholomew said.
“Apparently, I get it from you.”
“The Rolex?” Bartholomew said, holding out his hand.
Reluctantly, Barty handed over the elaborate timepiece. “It appears the key points concerning your demise were overstated.”
“So it seems.”
Both men grappled with identical internal dialog: Kill him… or stay together?
Decisions, decisions. A well done continuation, John.
DeleteLike father, like son, but which of them is the stronger? Fascinating battle of minds to come methinks.
DeleteYour brilliantly crafted dialogue really creates so many questions for a reader about both these men. What a chilling sense of menace and cold-blooded nastiness they project. I like this a lot John.
Deleteit is so very cold, calculated and yet fascinating to read.
DeleteOh yes. Did I call or it what? I just knew Bartholomew couldn't be rubbed out so easily. Lovely continuation. Loving this serial.
DeleteCongrats, Terrie. It's nice seeing you in the winners circle again. I enjoyed both stories from you.
ReplyDeleteThe Reluctant Hussy
ReplyDeleteMisty swirled the parmesan filled olives in her third Grey Goose martini and toyed with the broken strap of her faux Tori Burch stiletto.
“I’m sorry, but I can’t be with a man who would solicit a prostitute.”
An elaborate raise of the man’s eyebrows: “We’re having drinks. I haven’t solicited you yet.”
“But the intent is key. I’m really sorry.”
The man rose and placed some bills on the table. He handed her his card. “Call me if you change your mind.”
After he left, Misty ate the olives, scooped up the money and hurried toward the door.
Some deviltry is in the air with this episode. Very nice continuation.
DeleteWell!! Two-face little madam!! Trust she gets her comeuppance. Methinks the olives may have been stuffed with more than parmesan ...
Deleteconniving character, beautifully drazwn.
DeleteVery nicely done. And where might Misty be off to? You didn't mentioned if she took the card or not. Hmmmm....speculation, speculation.
DeleteChange of focus [364]
ReplyDeletePettinger and the CIO stood shoulder to shoulder, watching the elaborate and, to the uninitiated, incomprehensible ballet of the white-clad SOCOs, the occasional murmur of ‘Photograph this’ as they catalogued and tried to make sense of the scene. One bent and gently pulled aside his clothes, seeking the sources of the bleeding. Looked across, ‘A key. On a chain.’ Shone torch so they could see.
‘Bollocking Christ, he’s so young –‘
‘Aye, Gov. Doubt his voice has even broke –‘
Which put him, near as dammit, Aleks’ age.
Aleks, similarly out on the streets, cash and keys in his pocket.
What is Aleks up to now? This has nowhere to go but the dark side. Can't wait to hear more.
Deletedefinitely into the dark side, where Aleks is concerned anyway.
DeleteThe comparison to Aleks seems ominous and yet, I have a feeling any boy who is a product of Pettinger would have more than his fair share of street smarts. All I can say is, Aleks better be safe or I wouldn't put much into the chances of whoever might have hurt him.
DeleteThe Janus Door
ReplyDeleteHours ago, Vesuvius erupted with the fury of Vulcan which broke upon the city of Pompeii. Smoke, ash, pumice and lava had been venting from her top, showing no signs of ending. Vibius Tedious, commander of the XIII cohort of the Legio Secunda Adiatrix. He'd fought Rome’s enemies all his life, but he'd never expected to fight a god he didn't think existed. His men sought refuge in the elaborate temple of Janus, packed with people. For the first time, Vibius felt a failure for not being able to protect or save them. Maybe inspired faith is the key.
I wonder if Vibious Tedious (great name) is one of the fossilized human statues they found under the ash of Pompeii? Well done on this, Jeffrey. A possible contender for the voting.
DeleteHuman suffering twinned with hints of higher beings; I do like a little intervention from the gods and the two-faced deity gives scope for double-edged shenanigans, so I am hoping this may become a weekly read Jeffrey. Nicely written.
DeleteNice historical references. The "fury of Vulcan" is particularly inspired.
DeleteRescue? [Threshold 288]
ReplyDeleteI’d never been in any sort of vehicle, but knew a key should start it, so was puzzled at the raising of its front and a fiddling with an elaborate nest of coloured wires. Surprised at the stuttery rumble they alerted. He opened the door on the driver side, indicated I climb in. Saw me thinking he expected me to make it go and, for the first time, his face showed less than worry.
‘Broke. Door broke.’
I slithered across, bubbling with a sudden sense of adventure.
He offered a bottle. ‘Water?’
‘Please.’
And having drunk, I slept. For hours.
I love how your writing always flows so easily into a huge cliff-hanger, Sandra. You are a master of keeping us hooked, and dangling, and wanting to know more. Thank you also for voting ‘Gathering Magic’ your choice for last week I was surprised and pleased to spot that when I logged into prediction this morning.
DeleteCrimony, I wonder what was in that water. Went from bubbling with adventure to immediate sleep.. This girl is so intriguing, really, one never knows what she will say or do next. Good luck with your weekend pitching. If Drink with a Dead Man is like these stories, you should do well.
Deletewater and ? clever episode, this.
DeleteDoesn't anyone EVER listen to the warning about drinking the water? But still, I have a feeling this may not be as dangerous as it appears. Of course, when it comes to "Threshold," one can never truly be sure.
DeleteGathering Magic - 4
ReplyDeleteStarless, moon-dark, clouds broke in murky patches across the sky as she sat, looking deceptively defenceless in the gloom, under inky-shadowed trees.
An elaborately carved gemstone-key pendulum rippled mysteriously in her hand and sparked blue flame.
With a soft rustle, the shadowy-winged flyer settled in branches above her.
Abruptly she gave a faint flick of her smallest finger and a flash of magic lit up the dark. It shot through the air, sending the creature tumbling from the stark branches onto the mossy earth.
‘Stop lurking and make yourself useful, Batt.’
Batt twitched and fluttered. ‘Yes mistress.’
I bet Batt got the message after getting zapped with this flash of magic. Very entertaining, Terrie.
DeleteThe contrast between down-to-earth dialogue and finger-flick magic adds further intrigue to this series.
DeleteWhat a great opening sentence. Yes, with her newly enhanced magic, she is anything but defenseless. Batt can attest to that.
Deleteintrigue matched with interesting characters, good one.
DeleteBeauty of language, as always. I rather like this little Batt character. He would translate so well into a visual. But then again, the whole is so very picturesque.
DeleteGood scene setting descriptions. Enjoyed moon-dark and shadowy-winged were the most evocative. Keys unlock things but how many ask why those things were locked. Good continuation, Terrie.
ReplyDeleteReflections
ReplyDeleteSwathed in drapes of purple velvet, the elaborate prophetic relic had not been consulted in decades. Now, the time had come to reawaken the dormant harbinger and hope its capabilities remained intact. Spirit connections could be fragile and easily broken.
"Mirror, mirror..."
Response was immediate.
"You are the fairest here so true, but your daughter is far more beautiful than you."
Snow White secured the artifact under lock and key once more before sending for the Huntsman.
Amazing how some people behave when the shoe is on the other foot. Your recanting of these twisted tales reminds me of something called Fractured Fairy Tales. So enjoyable to read.
DeleteStill chilling, no matter how often told, and this a stark example.
DeleteAnd I thought Snow White was so angelic. The Huntsman must also be second generation. I wonder who the father is? Either the handsome Prince or Dopey?
DeleteThis is so nastily good, Patricia! Your first paragraph is a gem!
DeleteI just love your twisted fairy tales!
DeleteBefore It's Too Late
ReplyDeleteMy plan isn't elaborate. Couldn't be any simpler. Get out before it's too late.
But, as always, he's hidden the car keys and bars the door.
"You're going nowhere unless I say you can!"
This time, however, things take something of a surprising turn and he becomes anxious for me to find them.
"What's that, honey? You've hidden them where?"
I lean closer. Sympathetic. Compassionate.
"I know you'd like to tell me before it's too late, sweetheart, but that blood bubbling around the broken knife blade in your throat makes those gurgles so difficult to understand."
Maybe she should've tortured him first. Gruesome, even. Very good story, Patricia.
DeleteHope she's accurately calculated likely damage to vocal cords against effect of rate of blood loss on life ...
DeleteIt rarely pays to be controlling these days. A very entertaining read, Patricia.
DeleteWere I she, I believe I would extend the torture even when he coughs up (excuse the pun) the keys.
Deletea real nasty one, and I am content to read endless nasty ones...
DeleteBump in the Night: #7
ReplyDeleteIt had been two months since their initial talk. They had explored some of the lighter BDSM arrangements. She got home from work and saw the note Jim had left her, next to a lit candle
Dear,
I know that the key to a workable BDSM relationship is trust, love and support. My past is affecting that, and I hope this expression of my love for you isn’t overly elaborate or sappy. I picked this up for you to wear. April broke my heart; I know you’d never do that.
XOXO
Jim
Inside was a red and hazel bustier.
Sounds like the relationship is stepping up a bit. Should be interesting. And yes, trust seems to be a key element in BDSM arrangements.
Delete"Red and hazel bustier." Now there's an interesting combination.
DeleteBedlam Beyond the Nebula
ReplyDeleteAs a failsafe the security team were on a different sleep cycle to the rest of the crew.
They passed through the silent ship. Corpses displaying evidence of violence lay rotting in the corridors. Someone had scored elaborate spirals into the floor tiles. Someone else had scrawled the words ‘The Straw That Broke the Camel’s Back’ gigantically onto the walls.
The eerie sound of an off-key rendition of an ancient nursery rhyme drew them cautiously toward the galley. When they found engineer Vanderhoon curled into a foetal ball he rasped an ominous warning. “Don’t drink the water...”
An ominous beginning, David. Good narration and scene setting, which you're very good at.(and why I'm practicing with it). Can't figure out what nursery rhyme they heard.
DeleteA scene setting which touches all senses and raises the hairs on the back of my neck with that eerie off-key rendering. Great stuff David.
DeleteSilent ships always scare me. This one is no exception. Nice one, David.
DeleteThis reminds me of the movie ALIEN, where the absence of speaking was as frightening as the creature. Good stuff, David!
DeleteI admire science fiction that is as well executed as this. My mind never seems to travel along the SciFi path. Probably just as well since any comparison would undoubtedly leave me lacking.
DeleteSnap: Theo solicitor phones.
ReplyDelete‘Mrs Duncan? I’m sorry but your husband’s been remanded in custody –‘
‘You couldn’t get him bail?’
The solicitor smiled to himself. Moira Duncan’s lack of concern as anticipated; she far from broken by the news. No need for elaborate tiptoeing around the truth. ‘Not when he’s been responsible for a couple of people losing their lives.’
‘People dying? Who?’
‘Detectives. One – Jo Freedom – I understand to be his mistress –‘
Dismissive, ‘Another? What concerns me more is Rob is missing. His son. As are the keys to Theo’s car –‘
‘The police have the car. But not your son.’
Very cool, Sandra. I'm thinking, when Moira said "Another?"
DeleteShe meant, 'what, another mistress?' Is that correct?
I certainly enjoy your writing style.
I think that's correct John, though as it's the first thing I've heard Moira say I can't be 100% certain.
DeleteThis serialization is equally as intriguing as the other two you post here, Sandra, and yet has its own flavour. Your ability to manipulate so many bowstrings is both admirable and enviable.
DeleteFIRST THINGS FIRST
ReplyDelete“Hi there. Want some company?”
“No.”
“Come on, Sweetie, buy me a drink. Not to elaborate, but no telling where that might lead us.”
“Not tonight.”
I looked at her… blonde, winsome smile, tits spilling over her tight red dress. Fingering the key around her neck, she plopped herself on an adjacent stool. She placed her hand on mine, and I winced at the pain from the finger I had broken earlier that evening. I pushed myself from the bar and walked away thinking I might return later.
There were two in my trunk I had to dispose of first.
I'm sure a laugh - involuntary, but still a laugh - is inappropriate on reading the final line, but nevertheless I did so. Perfectly paced and entertaining, Jim.
DeleteInteresting humor, having the potential victim buy him a drink. and yes a well placed and very good last line.
DeleteIt would be a same to sully such a fine display of red dress and spilled assets. Maybe she'll not be there if he returns. I too would be ready for a drink after a successful night of murder and mayhem.
Deleteclassic last line, so well done.
DeleteMagnificent closing line. And, as Jeffrey mentioned, the touch of humour simply made this piece even more entertaining.
DeleteA Random Tale
ReplyDeleteDead broke and uncharacteristically upbeat, Dimitri strolled into the convenience store.
“A pack of Keystone Lights, my good man. I’ll pay you after you hand over the money in the register.”
“And why, pray tell, would I do that?” said the turbaned clerk, his furtive hand beneath the counter.
Dimitri produced a Glock. “It would be beneficial not to do anything elaborate.”
Preparing to depart, Dimitri laid a fiver on the clerk’s bloody chest. “And I don’t even smoke,” he said, his mood slightly downturned. “What part of elaborate did you not understand?”
An elaborate plan is rarely random. I remember in high school reading The Ellery Queen Crook Book, this story would fit in very well.
DeleteWhat a diabolically sinister tale this is, John. I'm wondering if he robs only convenience stores that employ turbaned clerks?
DeleteJim,I'm certain Dimitri is an equal-opportunity robber. At least I hope so. You never know these days.
DeleteBut surely he's missing a trick in asking for cigarettes instead of something he does want?
Deletewe have to ask, was there anything else he took, along with the cigarettes... can't trust these robbers...
DeleteThere is no stopping you this week, John. I loved every part of this from the name "Dimitri" to the "Glock" reference and everything inbetween. What a great final statement!
DeleteThe Cambion Proposal: #13
ReplyDeleteWith hot stew in her belly, she sat on the broken bed, Zindar in a chair.
“What’s so important in my brain?”
“Tell me about King Ruthan and his family. Is he a fair king? Why are they loved or hated?”
“Why me? I’m a harlot.”
“That’s the key. You know the people; they know their king.”
oOo
Melthane loved reading and could still read the elaborately scribed librums.
“That explains the colors…the same as when father looks at me, deep red. I see love that’s received. This is a subterfuge. The Pasha-Mir is the tallest in their city…not second tallest.”
I didn't think harlots ever referred to themselves as harlots. That was a funny line. Very entertaining throughout.
DeleteHarlots, I am told, can house a wealth of information. I hope this one can use what she knows to her advantage.
DeleteA very enjoyable continuation. The "hot stew in her belly," is exceedingly telling.
DeleteThe Secret Armadillo Soldier (SAS) Diaries - entry 79
ReplyDeleteTosca returned with comfrey roots and limp woundwort.
‘It’s key to chew it well. So, share it out and get too it ‘Cinereus commanded. He looked at Nigel. ‘You get the shitty job… I’d do it, but me teeth are broke,’ he nodded toward the dangling limb. ‘an’ ‘e’ll need t’ travel on the contraption when we’re done.’ he elaborated.
‘We don’t have time for this.’ Nigel said
Cinereus glared, ‘we are not leaving him.’
Nigel shrugged, bent his head and brought his teeth together over the spindly tendon.
The gerbil whimpered and stilled as the useless paw fell away.
That's a rather problematic solution to amputation, why invent a saw for that when teeth can be as sharp. A reminder that as much as you've humanized them, they're still armadillos. Very good story Terrie.
DeleteI've always seen Nigels as untrustworthy beasties ...
DeleteNigel, the surgeon, seems somewhat heartless. Good thing Cinereus is in control. You squeeze so much good stuff into your stories, Terrie.
DeleteThe ultimate shit job; chewing off someone's arm. I'm anxious to hear more of this contraption. Is the contraption related to the camouflage?
DeleteThis was a brutal scene and yet executed with just the right amount of sympathy. I think "the gerbil whimpered" took me on the side of sympathy. As always, Terrie, the tales of these 'dillos are a total delight.
Delete
ReplyDeleteTASDEK 5
Vixen's healing skill was not the only key to his usefulness for dark and light angels, or the five clans of, angel-created, daemon-born, Vagh-Mut.
Spying, information gathering, and elaborate subterfuge he could manage. A warrior he was not.
He watched D’jan sheath her dagger with a flick. He saw her broken skin shimmer and heal.
‘You do know trolls don’t exist, D’jan.’
‘So you say, Grallech, but what you know amounts to very little, so excuse me for believing they do.’ She began padding restlessly around the charm-wards.
Vixen smelled her frustration and the rising blood-fire of her hybrid species.
Magic. And so far from my capabilities I'm awestruck.
DeleteHaving a healer around is certainly advantageous for warriors. Nicely done, T.
DeleteMagic and monsters and myth. Who could ask for anything more.
DeleteInteresting and very good line, angel-created, daemon-born. It conjures many images of the Vagh-Mut.
ReplyDeletemagic stories are just that - magic. Great read.
DeleteDeparture
ReplyDeleteJakhol was paranoid, only a few selected individuals knew the key to entering. Salamera waved her hand over the crystal on Jakhol’s elaborately ostentatious wagon then spoke the language of her kind, laughing at the irony.
“Salamera, fahdon do jakhol, askke fah entry.”
The crystal glowed and the door vanished. Jakhol was lounging on a bed of silks, being groomed by two female servants. One of two redeeming features: he didn’t believe in owning slaves…it wasn’t profitable, and his honesty. He was two logs tall, handsome, suave, and almost broke. But, he’s the best caravan master in the barony.
I think this story has legs. A lot can happen in this barony. I like the name Jakhol. Kind of a cross between jackal and Jack Hole.
Delete"Two logs tall" leaves the interpretation of his height delightfully ambiguous. Nice creation of a new language, by the way.
DeleteAnybody else seeing a mysterious "Stop Press" link at the top of the page or is it just me? I didn't click on it so don't know where it goes, but wasn't taking any chances.
ReplyDeleteYou'll be fine Patricia - I put the STOP PRESS there, highlighted so as to make it noticeable. - Phil Sloman, who took over from Lily is running a one-off Prediction to encourage some of his writing friends who have declared themselves to be in a writing slump. He gives a brief history of the Prediction and deadline for his three words in 29th February. Plus he's encouraging his friends to come and join us.
DeleteCan we participate if inspiration strikes?
DeleteDEFiNITELY!! - I hope you all do!
DeleteI visited the highlighted stop press thingy. I was so intrigued, I posted a story. Thanks, Sandra, for this diversion and opportunity for prizes. I hope to see all of us Predictioners there.
DeleteGood luck to all Predictioners who toss their hats into that "Stop Press" ring. I appear to be sadly lacking in inspiration this week and am still waiting for the muse to show up with both "Cripplegate" and "Kursaal" scrolls for me to work on. However, seems I still have time before the "Stop Press" deadline at least.
DeleteThe Secret Armadillo Soldier (SAS) Diaries 80
ReplyDeleteIf you remember, a recovering Armi has just spotted those knives in Brenda boots… and she has given him the secret sign... is she an SAS operative...
Brenda grinned at Armi and patted the elaborately carved blades stowed in her boots. ‘Nah, Mr. Armi, payin’ attenshun is the key. Watched me Da’ fer years. ‘e wuz one o’ them berserkadillahs.
Then, when I come ‘ere, used t’ foller y’u to that glade y’u fort wuz your secret trainin’ place. I aluz used to practice after yu’d gone… but don’t tell yer Sarg lady, or Mr. Pink. I don’t want nuffin’ changing: If it ain’t broke don’t try t’ fix it so t’ speak.
Got a feeling in me scales trouble’s brewin’. Im gonna be needed ‘ere.’
DeleteOh - 'berserkadillahs' wins you honorary lifetime membership, for sure! So good to be back in this world.
perfect dillo dialogue! Not easy to do but you make it look easy.
DeleteWhat a delightful dillo this Brenda is. I loved her monologue.
DeleteBrenda always brings a smile to my face. I love the way she talks and manages to go her own way, no matter what.
DeleteLoved that last line, how to humanize them and yet demonstrate that they actually aren't.
ReplyDeleteStop The Week, I Want To Get Off (85)
ReplyDeleteConflicting stories, auction this week not last week, damp coming through to the flats not next door’s problem (wouldn’t mind betting it is) and trade being dead. Not one purchase in two days, despite the sale table being a key factor last week. We will be broke at this rate! Atrocious weather isn’t helping, gales, rain, cold… winter… Shaun was out earlier negotiating an elaborate deal over clearing a garage, I’ll know more tomorrow. Before then… need to get relisting advertising done… sometimes second time around things sell, for whatever reason, and redo the sale window. Something has to give.
Let's hope the coming Spring brings more business. Perhaps the garage will have some titillating items.
DeleteYes, have to agree, this does sound like a week to get off. Hope next week is many times better.
DeleteFingers crossed for an increase in business, Antonia. Hopefully this is just a small blip on the radar before things are booming again.
DeleteDreary weather is depressing and tends to keep people indoors. Hopefully, a few days of sunshine will draw shoppers out.
DeleteThe Mad Italian (144)
ReplyDeleteThe PM can do no right at the moment, firing people, losing people, not visiting flood zones (why should he?) All post-election leaders go through this charade. It’s an elaborate ritual that shakes up the government and often holds the key to the future of his policies. Some careers get broken, others are lifted and pushed onwards, what comes out is what is right for the people now. They may not appreciate it but it’s a fact of political life. Not everyone gets to the top. Sometimes they should be grateful for that… this period will pass. It always does.
A good example of why many are wary of holding a high office. It's hard to win. And what could he say in the flood zone? Yes, the land is flooded.
DeleteIt's always bad policy not to at least put in an appearance at disaster locations. I believe it was the visits of King George and Queen Elizabeth to the East End during the time of the Blitz that turned the tide of popularity firmly in their favour....what with the ties to Germany an all.
DeleteNot played here for a while, not for the want of trying. Life has a habit of eating ones time just lately.
ReplyDeleteA Final Symphony for Wind
Whenever John broke wind it was an elaborate affair, like a call to arms for the brass section in a Major key, accompanied by Timpani. He usually followed such a performance with a snigger and In a normal circumstance I would have found it amusing too, but at 3am the cacophony issuing from my wardrobe would only alert the intruders to our hiding place. This shall not end well...
Yes, there is a time and place for everything. High entertainment with this, William. I hope you make future appearances here.
DeleteAnd you have lost none of your unique storytelling abilities, William. Don't stay away so long next time!
DeleteWell, at least it wasn't an elevator. Very good story.
DeletePerhaps the intruders will have a sense of humor, William. Quite a novel use of the prompts. Well done!
DeleteThe Secret Armadillo Soldier (SAS) Diaries - entry 81
ReplyDeleteAt this time Atlas is also hurrying to his rendezvous point.
Atlas took it as ill-omen when the moon sliced, starkly, through the sooty clouds.
Timing was key to the mission and he was running late for the rendezvous.
Clammy warmth wafted in oppressive waves; still, he quickened his pace.
She’ll ave a K’niption fit, he thought, imagining an angry Sarg, full bellow, if he was late.
Unexpectedly, a scent of water wafted in with the heat, and a storm erupted.
Atlas swore, and broke into a run as rain pelted into elaborate ripples and runnels of rushing water. Trust the weather to throw further hold up his way.
Ya gotta love Atlas. He's right up there as one of my favorites.
DeleteNicely descriptive imagery; the moon sliced through sooty clouds.
DeleteI hate to sound like a broken record, Terrie, but your beautiful use of language always bowls me over.
DeleteYou are spoiling us this week, Terrie. You do realize that this leads us to expect just as many continuations from here on out now, right?
DeleteI love the "rain pelted into elaborate ripples" - so vividly descriptive!
ReplyDeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteI have found that most postings on Thursdays rarely get read since they are submitted after people have already decided the week is over. So, even though I do have a twinkle or two of a tale brewing with regard to Cripplegate and the Kursaal and use of the prompts, I do believe I'll pass for this week. In fact, I have found inspiration seriously on the wane since the beginning of the year and coming up with interesting tales, etc., is now rather a struggle. Given that, I may just take a bit of a hiatus from posting. If that does come to pass, I will continue to pop in with my comments since I believe validation of what people post is most important.
ReplyDeleteThe above will, of course, depend largely upon the participation of my fickle muse...!!!
DeleteI pass on your offer to take a possible hiatus. But thanks for asking. I'll look for well mused stories next week. But to be real, even your self proclaimed uninspired efforts are pretty damn good.
DeleteApologies I have messed up scheduling and have no WiFi here to correct. Use mill, Derelict and inefficient if nothing else appears
ReplyDeleteAND THE VERDICT IS…
ReplyDeleteThe trial, if it can be called such, had no jury, no witnesses, no spectators milling about a courthouse.
There is just I, an impartial arbiter, alone in this room, charged with rendering a verdict of death or exoneration.
Each side, at times quite contentiously, argued its case. The prosecutor, if I can be called such, vividly described the ghastly murders committed by the defendant. Defense council, if I can be called such, vigorously argued that the defendant’s savagely derelict practices resulted from a fiendishly inefficient childhood.
Following due deliberation, I thrust the barrel of the gun beneath my chin.