Sunday Snippet: Maybe This Seems Familiar

A random observation to start things off. A new office chair totally makes a huge difference when it comes to comfort for writing or editing. Just saying. I got a new chair on Friday and I can already feel the difference. Nice!!

Busy week on the television front. Gotham had a great episode. I hope it gets renewed because I'm interested in where the characters will end up next.

The Flash moved the story forward and I'm looking forward to seeing the finale. Arrow did a repeat, but this week should be new. Legends of Tomorrow had a great new episode. I'm liking what they're doing with the character interaction.

Agents of SHIELD took another bizarre twist and I like it. My one quibble would be the somewhat constant pulling the rug out will get old if it happens all the time. I do get a little tired of turning good guys into bad guys and that's saying something because I love all the shades of gray between black and white.

Wynonna Earp continues to make me happy. And I got partially caught up on Banshee. Gotta say the first episode kind of blew my mind in a terrific way. Not at all what I expected. I'm about halfway through season two of X Company and I’m still enjoying everything about the show.

I didn't say anything about Orphan Black last week because my brain was still processing the premiere. But, wow, what a terrific episode! And the follow up kicked butt, too. Lovely to see Paul, if only briefly. I have so much love for this show and how they raise the stakes each season.

And that's it for television.

Tonight's post is from Maybe This Seems Familiar, a novella built around the two word prompt of "step back". Kind of a fun one to build a story around.

Here's the mini-blurb:

A tragic death sends Inyx Pic, an Adept Major, into a brittle shell of self-doubt. When Philo Batson, her Adept Master, pushes Inyx to get back to teaching, her armor of disillusionment cracks and anger and grief come pouring out, leaving Philo to handle the fallout.

And a preview snippet…

Inyx woke up groggy, her facial skin tight, her tongue dry and swollen. Blinking against the light streaming in from her window, she angled her head, a dull throb starting over her left eye. How the flaming hell did she end up in her room? And whose warm body stretched out on the other side of the bed?

Her gaze settled on Philo and she groaned. All the pieces clicked into place. Damn the man. He'd pushed her to face her drama and she'd blubbered like a baby.

The headache eased and she glanced up to find leafy green eyes staring in her direction, focused on the spot above her left eye. "Stop it. Quit coddling me." She raked her fingers through her tangled hair. "If you want to help, get me some water." She shook her head when he reached across the bed to retrieve a glass from the nightstand.

His smirk held humor. "Already anticipated the need." He pressed the cold glass against her cheek.

She wanted to smack him, but the coolness eased the taut skin on her face. Wrapping her fingers around the cup, she slid it forward and gulped half the contents down. The dry, parched desert of her mouth turned into a blissful oasis. Philo annoyed the hell out of her, but he always seemed to make the right moves when she hovered close to the edge.

And she teetered precariously at the moment.

Finishing the water, she placed the glass on the nightstand again. "You had nothing better to do than babysit me last night?" Dragging herself to an upright position, she tucked her legs under her. "No hot dates?"

Philo lifted a shoulder. "Nothing pressing." He glanced away. "Or all that interesting."

Inyx cracked a smile. "Madam Prissypants not cutting it anymore?" Fillomena Warrick ruled her own little corner of the realm.

And tried to slither her mental tentacles around Philo on a regular basis.

Philo's lips twisted in a grimace. "Are you going to say 'I told you so' now?" He'd failed to heed Inyx's warnings about the designs Fillomena had on him.

Inyx shook her head. "Nah, free pass this time." She angled a sideways glance in his direction. "Especially since I kinda ruined your night." Not quite ready to be grateful, she left her comment there.

Philo slid around, swinging his legs over the edge of the mattress. "Appreciated. Maybe next time you warn me off a potential nightmare, I'll listen." He stood up and stretched, the muscles in his shoulders flexing and bunching with movement.

Inyx looked away. The constant battle between her head and heart didn't rate on her list of things to worry about today. After all, Philo peeled the scab off the wound, leaving her raw and achy. The scar tissue would take time to heal.

I'm fond of Inyx and Philo. They're fun to write.

That's it for this week.

Cheers!

Skye

Sunday Snippet: Man Up

Finally, a fairly lovely week. The weather took a turn for the better with mild temperatures and some sun.

Gotta say The Magicians finale shocked and surprised me. Loved it! The premiere of The Hunters has me intrigued so I'll continue watching to see how things pan out. No episode of Bitten this week, unless I missed the US viewing night. I've seen the next to last episode and some big twisty-turns I didn't expect.

Agents of SHIELD had a great episode. I have to give Brett Dalton credit for being so good at playing truly creepy. He's got the chops to pull it off.

Legends of Tomorrow also had another great episode. And finally, looks like we'll have a new / another villain. Glad to see the potential there.

Loving Wynonna Earp. I'm all caught up and really excited about the potential for this series. Still need to watch the first three episodes of Banshee, which I'm hoping to do later tonight. Also started a new ITV drama, Marcella, and so far, really like it. One of my favorite actors is starring so I'll be glued no matter what. LOL

And finally, I'm getting back into X Company, an excellent Canadian drama about WWII. Loving the second season so far.

And that's it for television this week.

Tonight's post is from Man Up, a novella built around the prompt of "a drunken game of one-upmanship goes all the way"

Here's the mini-blurb:

Hattie Hale and Nero Palmer, instructors at the Academy of Light, are supposed to set the example, but can't quite get past their competitive natures. A drunken game of one-ups-manship goes all the way to the sleeping chamber because neither will admit to being outdone.

And a preview snippet…

I must have a death wish. Why else would he accept the gauntlet Hattie had thrown down?

Entering the Scholar, the oldest, still in business bar in the community closest to the campus, Nero quickly scanned the surroundings and zeroed in on a corner booth. With a jerk of his head indicating his intent, he made a beeline for the empty spot. Hattie followed, hot on his heels. He had no doubt she'd already conjured up an order the moment they'd walked inside.

Sure enough, a bottle of Stiltskin's Gold Label and two rocks glasses held court in the center of the table. He slid in on one side of the booth and waited for Hattie to settle in across from him.

Eyeing the alcohol, he quirked an eyebrow. "Gold Label? Really?" He wanted to wash the bitter aftertaste of the tie away, not drink himself into a coma.

Hattie smirked. "Why not? We need something strong to counteract the stench of loser, right?" Tapping two fingers on the bottle, she dispersed the first round.

Nero lifted a shoulder. "Loser is a bit harsh, don't you think?" He sipped the smooth blend, waiting for after burn to kick in.

Because it always did. The family recipe obtained legendary status, the amber liquid lulling unsuspecting drinkers into a false sense of security before the alcohol bared its teeth, its fangs releasing a hot trail of venom that kicked hard and fast deep in the gut.

Hattie tossed back her drink and gave a three count before blowing out a harsh exhale. "Whew! Yeah, that'll burn through anything." She flicked her finger against the bottle again and shot a grin Nero's way. "You gonna keep up or what?" She brought the glass to her lips again.

Nero snorted. "Don't you worry about me. I'll get my fair share." He drained the contents and refilled.

Slow and steady won the race and if Hattie opted for fast and loose, he'd definitely drink her under the table. She talked a big game but he had yet to see anyone handle top shelf Stiltskin by rapidly consuming it. A small smile played about his lips.

Hattie narrowed her gaze. "What's going through that awesome brain of yours?" She blinked and corrected. "I mean twisted brain. Yeah, that's it." She drained her glass again.

Nero grinned but didn't comment on her slip. "Nothing complicated, Hattie. I'm having an internal debate about how long you can last slamming back the Stiltskin the way you are." He finished off his drink and refilled.

Hattie swirled her finger in a circle then jabbed it in his direction. "You just wait and see, Nero. I'm gonna blow your mind."

He gave her a level look but didn't reply. Mainly because he had a sneaking suspicion betting against her would be a mistake of epic proportions.

And, not being stupid, he wouldn't take a chance on losing.

Again.

Nero's a smart guy. Not betting against Hattie is a very wise move. Doesn't mean he won't get sucked into trying to outdo her though. LOL

That's it for this week.

Cheers!

Skye

Sunday Snippet: Manifest Legend

April 10, 2016

Just in time for the weekend, snow showers in Ohio. LOL Considering I was still wearing shorts and flip-flops in October, I won't gripe anymore. J

Update on the gimpy kid… she'd made huge strides over the last week, going from her splint down to a boot and now easing into a brace. She's doing therapy and it's making a huge difference. She won't be ready to jump hurdles before the end of track season, but she's mobile and crutchless for the most part. *throws confetti*

Sad there isn't a new Walking Dead, but also a little relieved. I'll give next season a quick go then decide if I can deal with Negan or not.

The Magicians is almost to the season ender and I'm kind of excited to see what happens. Bitten is also two episodes away from its finale and I'm kind of sad there won't be any new episodes to look forward to.

No new The Flash, but Agents of SHIELD had a terrific showing. I rather like how the deep division seems to be setting up Captain America: Civil War.

Arrow… wow. I'm actually kind of shocked at who we lost. That said, never say die in a show based on a comic series. There's a solid chance we'll see the one we lost again.

Legends of Tomorrow put a good episode together. I really love the complicated mix and relationships portrayed. I will admit, I'm actually kind of tired of Savage constantly having the upper hand. I'd like to see a serious blow dealt to him and maybe an introduction of some other villains.

Still need to watch Banshee, but I have the eps ready to go. And the first episode of Wynonna Earp proved awesome! If the second ep is as good, I'm all-in. Kind of looking forward to The Hunters and hoping it holds my interest.

That's it for TV this week.

Tonight's post is from Manifest Legend, a free origin story for the caretaker and island in the Insula Ara ~ Sanctuary Island brand.

Here's the mini-blurb:

Insula Ara is a mystical island offering sanctuary to those in need, but when she reveals herself for the first time, Cedric Edward Teasdale, former crewman of a privateer, almost blows his chance for refuge… and a reunion with his lost love.

And a preview snippet…

"Captain, make fer the ship. You 'ave got to get off the island." Cedric Edward Teasdale might be a lowly crewman, but he knew battle tactics and strategies better than most seasoned officers.

And his captain had to get much needed supplies to the front.

"I'd love to head out, Ceet, but the hold is still being filled. I can't leave without the bulk of the cargo." Captain James Avery didn't do anything by half measures.

Ceet understood. Avery wasn't a privateer because he had to be. And the man didn't just play at raiding other ships for sheer enjoyment. No, Avery was cut from a different cloth.

He believed in the crown and would do whatever necessary to protect it.

"Aye, Captain. That ye can't." Ceet took a step forward and lowered his voice. "If'n you'll excuse me impertinence, sir, I took the liberty of outfitting that old battlement with fodder for the canons. They be primed and ready."

Ceet experienced a humble moment at the look of pride on Avery's face.

"Your impertinence is excused, Ceet. You've done well."

Bobbing his head at the compliment, Cedric looked to the horizon. "I can hold 'em off til you get the hold filled. Then you 'ave to make yer getaway swift and sure."

Avery nodded. "I can only spare two men. That won't hold them off for long."

"Beggin' yer pardon again, sir. You can't spare that. I'll take one man for an hour half. And that's to load up additional fodder for the canons. Once that's done, he'll be out on the last boat to the ship. You'll need all hands to make yer escape."

Avery pondered Ceet's words in silence before speaking quietly. "I won't allow you to sacrifice yourself for me, Ceet."

"Yessun, you will. And it's no sacrifice. I could do worse than this beaut of an island."

Avery turned, his eyes surveying the lush landscape. "You're sure? I'll return if we make it through, but it could take years."

"I'm sure. I've grown to love this place. I'll take care of the island and it'll take care of me."

"God willing, Ceet."   

"Swift sailing, Captain. May the wind always be at your back."

"Farewell, my friend."

Ceet is a terrific character and so much fun to write. The island is also fun to portray.

That's it for this week.

Cheers!

Skye

Sunday Snippet: Loss

So, first week of April in Ohio and we had a wintry mix of sleet and snow yesterday. *shakes head* Come on, Mother Nature, cut us a break. LOL

On the television front… The Walking Dead set everything up for the finale tonight. I'm actually thinking I won't watch it live. It's been a rough week and my brain might just break if one of my faves doesn't make it out alive.

Missed Gotham on Monday and haven't caught up yet. This plays into the rough week angle. My teenage daughter had her first track meet Monday night and badly sprained her ankle during the warm-ups. The poor kid didn't even get to compete. The good news is she cleared all the hurdles. The bad news? She needs to work on the landings. LOL Needless to say, she's on crutches and miserable but gets to see the orthopedic guy tomorrow. Whew.

The Flash and Agents of SHIELD had great episodes. I liked seeing the fallout from previous episodes on both shows. Time travel always kicks my interest up a notch and The Flash usually pulls off nice twists when it happens. Henry Simmons is terrific at playing Mack and I'm glad he's on Agents of SHIELD.

Arrow added some new layers to relationships and it was cool to see a Flash villain show up in Star City. I kind of liked having Felicity save the day and Curtis was a total riot in the Arrow cave / bunker. I love his character so much.

Legends of Tomorrow surprised me with revealing how Mick survived his encounter with Snart. Very cool to see Sara back in Nanda Parbot and being introduced to Talia. I loved the little seeds / references to Nyssa, too.

I checked into The Magicians and love the kind of twisty things they're doing with the relationships there. Bitten also had a great episode, but I'm truly sad another pack member met his end. I'm very ready for Elena and company to kick ass and end the menacing presence in their lives.

I'll be catching up with Wynonna Earp and Banshee sometime today. Will probably be adding little bits to next week's post on both.

And that's it for television this week.

Tonight's post is from Loss, a novella built around how my main characters handle the loss of their mentor. And how they find their way back to each other… if they can.

Here's the mini-blurb:

Welsh Hollingsworth is the golden child of Clan Grimstone, but when he's expected to fill the void left when his dad dies, he can't quite figure out how and he hopes Cagney Gaines can help him find some insight. Cagney can't deal with the loss of her mentor, the one constant in her chaotic world and she leaves when Welsh needs her the most. One year later, she returns to find a very different Welsh—one who doesn't welcome her with open arms.

And a preview snippet…

Cagney quietly made her way to the grotto. She'd snuck inside the compound, through the small fissure she and Welsh created when they were teenagers. How many times had they busted curfew using their secret passage? More than she could count.

She entered the small alcove and stopped; glad she'd used a dampening spell to silence her footfalls. Welsh stood at the altar, facing the double urns forged from pewter, holding the ashes of his ancestors. She approached from behind, but left plenty of space between them. No way would she intrude on his moment of remembrance.

Cagney tried to think of something to say, but being home, seeing Welsh, knowing the huge hole she'd left behind and the damage it probably caused had too many emotions clogging her throat. She couldn't speak so she remained quiet.

Welsh didn't turn around, but he broke the silence. "Thanks for coming, Cagney."

She didn't question how he knew. She'd never be able to explain the almost unbreakable connection they had, the deep awareness of each other when in close proximity. Even after being gone for months, he'd sensed her presence. She'd been so caught up in grief and guilt she closed herself off from sensory instincts. If she hadn't, she would've waited and not intruded on Welsh's time in the grotto.

Geez, they had so much left unsaid between them.

Welsh finally turned and met her gaze, held it a long moment, then stepped back. "I'll leave you to have a moment."

Cagney nodded thanks. She wanted, needed, to apologize to Wallace for leaving when she did. But she also owed Welsh the biggest act of contrition. She'd left him when he needed her the most.

He got about ten steps away from the exit when Cagney turned. "Welsh." Her voice got stuck, no words would come.

Her heart ached with the loss. Her eyes watered with grief and the need for forgiveness. Welsh took a step forward and Cagney ran to him, wrapping herself in his embrace.

She put her head over his heart and whispered. "I'm so sorry, Welsh. For everything."

Cagney's home but there's a lot she has to make up for. Welsh doesn't plan to make it easy on her.

That's it for this week.

Cheers!

Skye