Antonia said it – ‘Good Reads’ – and
this another week of an excellence we have got so used to I initially took
Terrie’s ‘Brain-fried’ as a straight-forward apology instead of the
brilliantly prompt-led piece it was.
As usual, what I name ‘winner’ for the
week is not an indication that others are in any way less accomplished or
entertaining, just the one I pick on has some particular hook that catches my
attention. This week Patricia managed it twice, with ‘In Plain Sight’
and ‘First appearances’
Words
for next week: greed state
usurp
Entries
by midnight Thursday 30th July , words and winners posted Friday 31st
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.
Congrats Patricia!
ReplyDeleteYes, definitely congratulations Patricia, you are wonderfully consistent each week as well as innovative and diverse with your offerings.
DeleteA well deserved honor, Patricia. Very enjoyable entries from you this week.
DeleteYou definitely earned the top spot last week, Patricia! Way to go!
DeleteThank you for the vote of confidence, Sandra. I felt my creativity had hit an all time low last week, so this is indeed a welcome boost...and thank you to everyone whose wonderful tales make me strive to equal such talent.
DeleteI know that feeling, Patricia, but believe me, you earn that top place and more!
DeleteA Chickenshit New World
ReplyDeleteThe usurpation of the United States - the west by Russia, the east by Great Britain - proved to be a grave series of mistakes.
Now what to do with the whiny inhabitants?
Executing them, though tempting, would defeat the entire purpose. Whipping the greedy little bastards into shape wasn’t working either. Hell, they wouldn’t even wear masks during the tear gas drills.
Finally, unprecedented legislation was put in place to un-usurp, only to be argued upon by the Americans. The easterners were becoming quite fond of afternoon tea.
The ones who see it as necessity are rarely the ones capable of its execution.
DeleteA dryly humorous introduction to an intriguing world - with a side of topicality.
DeleteMarvellous observations, John. I love that easterners were becoming fond of afternoon tea. I do hope cucumber sandwiches were on the menu.
Deleteclever thinking here to make an intriguing offering this week.
DeleteI find this ingenious and marvelous, John. You are right on about the whiny inhabitants of our nation.
ReplyDeleteChange of focus [387]
ReplyDeleteSally’s assumption Stepcart was in danger of usurping her was premature Her too-obvious assumption of proprietorial did her no favours, not least because, by underlining Stepcart’s youth-entitled greed, it aged her in comparison. Plus that proprietorial – not the first time seen – a concern. The phrase ‘Nanny state’ came to mind. (Not something Stepcart would recognise!)
But.
But he had to recognise he was not getting any younger. And since he really wasn’t ready yet to settle down, wouldn’t he be best advised to aim for youth despite – because of – all its short-term opportunities?
Even though Stepcart hadn’t offered any yet.
It sounds like Pettinger is kicking around the idea of settling down, even though he thinks he's not ready (is anyone 100% ready?).
DeleteCould Pettinger actually be contemplating the more committed life? Personally, I believe it could be simply a phase. As always, Sandra, you embody Pettinger with a fascinating array of characteristics.
Deletecan we trust Pettinger to do anything 'ordinary' like settling down, when he possesses such a devious mind which could take him anywhere - and probably will. I don['t think he's done surprising us yet.
DeleteHistory 101
ReplyDeleteOur Aztec forefather were characterised by an aggressive greed for territory. Having usurped the Inca and the Toltec, the burgeoning imperial state dispatched vast armies to sweep across the northern plains, subjugating Cheyenne, Pawnee and Apache.
Magnificent cities, dominated by gargantuan stone temples, were erected. Human sacrifices caused the Sun God smile on our fortunes. The stars aligned in our favour.
When news of the swift execution of the pale skinned crew of the Santa Maria reached his fabulous citadel, Emperor Montezuma he knew without a shadow of doubt that his next conquest lay far across the ocean.
Fascinated to see how this week's prompt words have brought on a rash of the political! And you've got history too.
DeleteGreed for territory seems to be a recurring theme in the history books. But we never seem to learn from it.
DeleteLovely exercise into the annals of history. Some magnificent visuals conjured here.
Deletegreed is at the base of every act by a leader, dictator or otherwise, I'm well aware of that. The whole concept is beautifully wrapped up here in 100 words where some historians would take two volumes and still say the same thing...
DeletePost-coital conversation continues [Threshold 310]
ReplyDeleteRaven rolled onto his back, laughing, ‘What does she want? God knows! Everything! She’s a greedy bitch, but ignorant. Stated from the first we were related and, colour of her skin, not impossible, but, as you said, highly unlikely. I’m sure I would’ve heard –‘
‘They told you the truth, as you grow up?’
‘Not one word in ten. You met my grandmother –‘ He rolled again to stare into my eyes, remembering, ‘It was your wolfhound bitch that killed her.'
‘Cathra. Aye, and you who usurped me in her affections.’
He stroked my cheek. Kissed me. ‘You blame her?’
As natural as lapping water and just as easily absorbed the prompts. Always a joy to read your prose.
DeleteThank you Perry - what a lovely thing to say.
DeleteAn intriguing piece, Sandra. I like when you sprinkle in little tidbits that remind me of their past together.
DeleteWhat does she want? (How many men have uttered those words?)
Raven has such a way with him. I'm pretty sure he could actually talk his way out of a paper bag, if necessary. This was a most enjoyable continuation...but then, that goes without saying really.
DeleteRaven ccntinues to be a worthy 'hero', adept at deceit and danger at the same time. This is a great instalment.
DeleteThe Secret Armadillo Soldier (SAS) Diaries - entry 116
ReplyDeleteCinereus signalled to Nigel then rummaged in his medicine bag, ‘this’ll ‘elp the pain. Yur a bit of a state yu’ know. ’
A paw-less stump waved him away, ‘kin wait… Need to talk. Yu’ need t’know wots cumin.’
‘We’re listenin’,’ said Nigel.
Moses sat up, wiped the stump across his injured eyes and scented the air. ‘It’s a clan of least-weasels … yu know; small, vicious, usurpin’ little bastards. Fear nothin’.’
Jagha, the leader, is white: Not winter-coat white, but sickly, all-year-round, white.
Some say she’s a Shaman.’
I say she’s a crazy, greedy, albino piece o’ shite’.
A clan of least-weasels with an albino piece of shite as leader - I'm fearful already.
DeleteLove the inherent humour of the title and the immediate conjuring of characters. Least-weasels - luvvit.
DeleteI really look forward to getting to know the approaching usurp'n little bastards. Jagha should prove interesting.
DeleteI'm anxious to learn of what happens during the seemingly unavoidable conflict. As always, Terrie, you provide a very interesting read.
DeleteThis was entertaining and amusing and written with an expert grasp of the circumstances. Who could ask for anything more?
Deletethis coming conflict sounds vicious and horrifying at the same time. I'm feeling sorry for these guys, who probably wouldn't appreciate that, would just want to get out there and start the fight.
DeleteKursaal (Episode Two Hundred Nine) - "Return Of The Travelling Circus/Part One"
ReplyDeleteReappearance of the travelling circus, with additional attractions, was a surprise. It included a dog act...twin girls whose pup jumped through a hoop...and a talented caricature artist. Rumour was the travelling circus, bent on greedily appropriating Kursaal business, had hired an experienced (not to mention stunning) event planner to promote new amusements.
Among the company were Maximillian Corviday's backstabbing cousins, Dugas and Degas. Each an Adonis in his own right and potential usurper of Arbuthnot Jester's casanovarian throne.
Several of Arby's ladyloves were already in a state of euphoria after watching the handsome Corviday Brothers at their energetic morning calisthenics.
--------------------------------------------------------
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: The Travelling Circus, Dugas and Degas Corviday, as well as Maximillian Corviday and Arbuthnot Jester, have all featured in previous episodes.
A set-up for a number of back-stabbings if I'm not mistaken. Entertained as ever by this cast of characters.
DeleteI must agree with Sandra, you have some well placed tensions brewing in this episode.
DeleteI was so drawn into the action of the story the prompt words just disappeared into the text ... and I also have this strange tickly sensation in the back of my brain that the additional attractions are familiar in some way ..
A delightful entree, though I feel the "backstabbing" description relies a lot on previous events. Not something you'd apply off-the-cuff without backstory.
DeleteUnfortunately Perry, that's the problem with serializations. So many references crop up that none but an avid follower could hope to figure out. Thank you for the "delightful" comment though.
DeleteThe traveling circus promises to add an element of cutthroat competition to the story line. I think I recall Maximillian owns the Kursall? What a concept of having his cousins compete with him.
DeleteYou recall correctly, John.
DeleteI find the fact that the back of your brain is strangely "tickly" regarding the familiarity of the additional attractions so very gratifying, Terrie. With serializations, so much gets lost in the previous telling and the many strings attached to my muddled fingers so often gets tangled in the process.
Deletethe travelling circus instalment arrives at a time when our government is busy giving us the dates when travelling circuses and the like are allowed to perform... someone tell you that????? this is a full head on clash instalment, I await the outcome with great i interest.
DeleteBEACHHEAD
ReplyDeleteThere were plenty of rocks about for them to sit upon. Some stared out at the unchanging sea as the stars inexorably usurped the dipping sun, while others just enjoyed the fire and the almost forgotten state of safety without universal vigilance.
“All down to greed, you know,” someone offered to the wind.
And the wind took it. No-one else was interested. The air was intoxicating … literally after so much time beneath.
The children gathered around the wounded falcon as if their combined concern could heal its ghastly injuries.
“Give it room, now. I think it’s had enough trauma.”
Perry McDaid
Very nice descriptive piece, Perry. The line, 'after so much time below,' is so intriguing and elicits much curiosity. I look forward to reading more of your stuff.
Delete'Gloaming; comes to mind on reading this, as if the action takes place in a browny-violet light (much like the background to this blog).
DeleteAnd welcome, Perry, for if you've been here before I'm afraid I have forgotten.
I loved the vivid images you created in the opening paragraph, Perry.
DeleteBeautifully crafted images, Perry. I especially liked the wind taking the words because no-one else was interested. Reminded me of that old "I Talk To The Trees" chestnut.
Deletegood to see you here again, Perry, a chance to indulge in your smooth as silk descriptions again, I hope! This is an intriguing offering this week, things to think on.
DeleteThank you all.
DeleteCripplegate Junction/Part 239 - Overseers And Underlings
ReplyDeleteNo attempt was ever made to usurp the Station Master's authority. His jurisdiction was all-encompassing and his decisions final, with one notable exception...a greedy orange feline who often got away with murder and went undisciplined.
Thus, when the Conductor queried if the time had arrived to blow the departure whistle, it came as a shock when the Station Master asked:
"What do you think, old boy?"
The Conductor didn't think. Wasn't his place to think. In a state of confusion and no little apprehension, he wondered whether an answer was prudent. Questions from the Station Master could be so tricky.
--------------------------------------------------------
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.
----------------------------------------------------------
My suspicion is the Station Master was addressing his question to Marmalade. (Had to read this three times to find the prompts - so smoothly were they inserted)
DeleteYes, I agree with Sandra that the conductor should remain quiet about the comment. Loved: 'to usurp the Station Master's authority.
DeleteSo, the question is, would Marmalade attempt an answer, or would he continue to be enigmatic and oh so secretive, a bit like everyone else at Cripplegate Junction.
DeleteSituations Vacant
ReplyDeleteAfter ejection of the holier-than-thou usurpers, hopeful candidates submitted their curricula vitae for employment consideration. One by one, positions were ideally filled until there was only a singular unoccupied chair.
The Ministry was over the moon when the consummate applicant interviewed and accepted the remaining vacancy. There was much to celebrate when the following statement was issued to the general populace:
"It is with great pleasure we announce, with the appointment of Greed, that the Bureau of Deadly Sins is now fully-staffed and open for business."
I'm sure the general populace was overjoyed! Hmm... maybe they actually were. What a surprise in the last line! Well done, Patricia.
DeleteHow inventive! I'm thinking this could be the launch of another of your wonderfully multi-populated serials
DeleteInventive indeed. You had to be happy when this idea popped into your head. Which cardinal sin did you end up occupying?
Deleteoh, questions Patricia should probably not answer... absolutely lovely entry, really it is.
DeleteTHE BOX
ReplyDeleteA concrete structure occupies the summit of a tall spire of rock a quarter-mile offshore. Known as THE BOX to the few inhabitants of the area, its walls appear some fifty feet high and thirty yards long. Its purpose is protected by violent waves and precipitous cliffs.
Theories exist as to its function - one usurping the last in absurdity. A prevailing one states it’s a vault for the government’s gold, a belief with legs because periodically and always at night a military helicopter hovers over it.
Admittedly, I am greedy. Gold attracts me, and I shall breach THE BOX.
Gullible, perchance? As well as greedy.
DeleteI would advise perhaps a little caution when attempting this breach. I have a feeling all may not go well. This was a lovely "out of the box" submission.
DeleteThere are some great ideas this week, yours being among them, Jim. Nothing like a mysterious place to get the juices flowing.
Deletegullible, yes, hopeful, definitely, doomed, very likely... so much can be read into these few words. Good one, Jim!
DeleteStifled
ReplyDelete"Look at the state of you!"
He chided, critical as ever. Did have a point this time though. Not a pretty sight, covered in blood.
An expert at usurping that to which he had no right and virtually greedy for it, he had stripped me of self-esteem, confidence and dignity.
I put my ear to his lips. Even the death rattle had now subsided but the voiceless rebuke lingered...vaguely...faintly.
"Say something?"
I stood tall.
"Didn't think so!"
Let's hope those whispers cease to sound quite soon. "Chided" a good word.
DeleteI imagine murderers do look afright after a grisly effort. Well done horror, Patricia.
Deletewhoo, what back story exists here, I wonder, and would anyone dare to explore it... so much set up to think on!
DeletePure evil so well expressed here, Patricia.
DeleteSnap: Saturday’s party
ReplyDeleteInevitably, despite being billed as wedding anniversary celebration, at times it threatened to turn into wake, even though Sarah, whose state of fragile inactivity was alien enough to dislocate, wasn’t yet dead.
Madigan’s newly-pregnant hormones caused her to regress to sulky teen. Guilt, at failing to warn Baz of his mother’s imminent death, tight-blinkered; greedy for the attention Fran was now receiving, having usurped her place as newest daughter-in-law (despite being merely honorary) her customary fizz became compacted.
So not surprising that the unanticipated presence of Susannah, Baz’s first love, acted as blue touch paper, only waiting to be lit.
This gives every indication that a power keg might be about to blow. Lovely choice of names.
DeleteLots of good suspense building going on. I'm sure the presence of someone's first love during a tense situation is never welcome.
DeleteThe guests best head for cover!
Deleteabout to respond when I saw there was more..
DeleteSnap: Saturday's party II
ReplyDeleteFran, nine days wed and still thrilling, guessed this the last chance to see Baz’s family complete: brothers Alex and Nick, brother’s wives Tatiana and Lisette, plus five children. Luke had told of his unofficial adoption by Baz’s parents, providing him with the love his own – mother a butterfly whose greedy hedonistic glitter had temporarily usurped his army father’s common sense ¬– were in no state to provide.
Unable to be anything other than grateful for what Susannah had begun with Luke, impatient with Madigan’s bad behaviour and by nature self-effacing, she did what she could to ease the horrendous occasion
Never easy to submit two connected tales with one set of prompt words...and yet, you make it appear so.
DeleteWell, this is some party going on.
Deletebutterfly with greedy hedonistic glitter... such images being conjured here!
DeleteStop The Week; I Want To Get Off (108)
ReplyDeleteYesterday a sofa sold; a big one. There’s another to come in its place… but meantime we’ve been able to greedily snatch the space and create a different look for a while. The floor is in a terrible state, but there’s still too much in the way, hefty vice and other things… to let me get in and clean. I want a Hettie, then I can reach corners. A Henry’s too big to store in a tiny kitchen, it would usurp all the space. The morning got busy with sales, I go back to work full time next week!!!
Progress indeed! Didn't know there was a Hettie - my Henry was inherited from an aunt in 2001 ad is certainly bigger than I'd like for lugging upstairs.
DeleteMust admit, I'd never heard of a "Hettie" or "Henry" within what I imagine to be the context here. Looked them up and they appear to be very cute-looking cleaning machines made by Hoover...and now I want one! Love it when I learn new things.
DeleteJust another day at the shop... It's good to hear you fretting about available floor space and not if there will be a floor at all.
DeleteThe Joys of Mediumship 15
ReplyDeleteI had a reading with my favourite Romany to ask questions about the shop and the books. I need to know about finances, it isn’t greed, it’s need. He said I need to get the word out there. I won’t use social media, it’s a troll and poison ridden platform whichever one you use, and seems fit to usurp sensible thinking. So… I’ve been writing mini backgrounds to the books already done. My publisher is considering how best to use them on the website. This could be fun, spirit seem to approve, they are flowing onto the screen so far.
Excellent idea.
DeleteCan't go wrong following the advice of a Romany, Antonia. This sounds like an exceptional idea.
DeleteI do like the idea of writing backgrounds for previously written pieces. Your fans will be pleasantly rewarded.
DeleteThe Mad Italian (167)
ReplyDeleteFar be it for me to usurp the positions of current leaders… who seem to be dominated by greed while their countries slide into a state of pure anarchy, but I wish I could… when a leading opera singer openly declares that he broke all lockdown laws because he felt humiliated by the laws, you know there is trouble brewing. The people will not stand any more restrictions on their day to day life, they will rebel and there will be those who will wish they never got involved in politics in the first place.
I certainly wouldn't want to be involved in politics. Especially nowadays. Think of all the budget deficits rising all around the world.
DeleteI will never understand how politics truly works, I must be honest. That being said, I very much appreciate the Mad Italian's insight. It makes things a little easier to grasp.
ReplyDeleteSnap: Saturday's party III
ReplyDeleteFran’s lack of experience of family was in a similar state to Luke’s, at least as far as role model went. Her biological father fled before she was born; a cowardly but understandable reaction, at that age, to her mother’s greed for financial supported (and instability when not forthcoming.
A more gullible publican soon followed. Their (legitimate) daughter usurped, cuckoo-like, what love they leaked when they were sober, pushing Fran to the outskirts.
And when cuckoo grew big enough to usurp Fran’s place with the boy who’d been her first love, Fran left. Returned but once, for her half-sister’s funeral.
Sorry -a bit self-indulgent, but I had a chapter I was stuck on. Now solved. Ish.
DeleteFran is going through it with her new family (she's the daughter-in-law, right?).
DeleteYes, John, you've got it right. This party was my mental kick-start for book five in the saga of Luke and Baz et al - but doesn't take place until well through the novel. It has sat there as a scene labelled 'The party was an unmitigated disaster' while the rest of the story crept up on it. Forcing myself to use prompt words to enables me to make a start; not all of these remain as they are here but it's a great way of getting going. And III done in two minutes before I had to be elsewhere so sorry for the typos.
Deleteno apologies needed, it's good to have a continuation to read. It's a good idea to write something and leave it ready to include. I just wrote about this in my mini blurb for Guy Fawkes' book. When he came, he asked if we could write the torture scenes first, so he wasn't writing toward them, they would be done and sealed. We did and it worked very well for him (which is all that matters.)
DeleteAnd yet a third "Snap" treat this week for our reading enjoyment. If there were typos, then I didn't notice them. That's what happens when the story itself is so fascinating.
Delete