Sunday Snippet: Oracle's Prayer

Ugh. I'm fighting something, a cold, a virus, some other kind of ick. Not having fun with it at all. I have two client calls this week and I'm hoping I can manage both.

We got back up in the high eighties this week. Supposed to have some rain on Monday or Tuesday and I'm kind of excited for that. We definitely need it. The drought has been upgraded to moderate.

Not a bad work week. I'm almost finished with one of my work projects and making solid headway on another that should be complete by the end of October. I start a new one sometime early in October and I'm looking forward to working on that one. I'll find out if another new project will be starting on Tuesday.

Had a semi-decent viewing week. Between not feeling the best and trying to finish up work projects, I didn't know if I'd be able to watch much. But I made it through my usual shows and got to watch the back-burner ones also.

Started with Miss Fisher's Murder Mysteries and quite enjoyed the rewatch. It's one I remembered from my original run through. Being in the US, it's fun to watch how footy affects those that have a long, long history with the sport.

Caught another episode of Foyle's War. This show is so well written, and I love the cast. So many super young actors who have gone on to amazing roles.

Watched a new Death in Paradise. I'm slowly coming around on Wilson. I think he might make a good addition to the team. The new police officer is also kind of growing on me. I love that he kind of came up with the solution to keeping Selwyn in his job.

Enjoyed another Poirot. Kind of leading everyone on a merry chase but keep them from going to France was very entertaining. Loved how Japp kept thinking he'd be losing his pension.

Caught another episode of Elementary. I very much like the Joan and Sherlock vibe this season. Really not sure what's going on with the stalker detective but I hope Joan watches her back.

Watched another Batman Beyond and didn't really remember this one. I have a vague memory of the conversation between Terry and Barbara but that's kind of all I remembered.

Enjoyed another episode of Lower Decks. The opener for season two ended up being entertaining. I really do appreciate the callbacks to all the other series. Fun bit with Boimler at the end.

Finished up the episode of Peak Practice I started a few weeks ago. Sam is going to be in a lot of trouble and I'm not sure I'm going to like how things go down with him.

Also finally started season two of Reacher. I'm almost finished with the first episode, but I had to pause because of the whole cold / virus / yuck thing going on. Should finish it up this week. I think the very best moment so far is the Terminator easter egg. Kudos to the writer of the episode for that!

That's it for the life update this week. Tonight's post is from Oracle's Prayer, a novella that explores two people on opposite sides and how they arrived in the middle together.

Here's the miniblurb:

Nason Forn, the daughter of an oracle, goes undercover to trap a wicked mage preying on young apprentices and thinks she's found her man when she discovers Lane Garganess standing over the body of the latest victim. But Lane has a covert identity, too, which puts him in a bad spot and on the wrong end of Nason's wrath.

And a preview snippet…

Nason rushed toward the abbey where one of the trainees lived. She couldn't fight the feeling of something being terribly wrong. As in the dirty, bad wrong of danger. Her mother said Lena Carsale never missed a training session.

Nason shuffled through her memory. "Long, dark hair. Tiny. Very funny." She'd only met Lena once when they crossed paths after Lena finished up a ritual with Paloma.

But she'd been regaling Nason's mom with the story of her first interpretation failure and she'd had such a humorous outlook on the gaffe. Paloma praised her for admitting the novice mistake and not giving up.

Nason darted up the steps to the abbey's front door. "I liked meeting Lena." Georgie also spoke highly of her fellow apprentice.

Nason tried all the rooms on the first floor and came up empty. "It figures." She double-timed taking the stairs to the second level.

Gut instinct—and quiet stillness—had her bypassing the floor and heading for the spiral staircase that led to the two chambers on the third story of the house. They were used for meditation and scrying. The door to the room on the left stood open with no light coming from within. The one on the right had a dim glow coming from beneath the closed panel.

Nason made a sharp turn, quickly twisted the knob, stumbled into the chamber and stopped short. A robed man stood over the prone—and no doubt dead—apprentice. She hadn't made it in time. Dammit, dammit, dammit.

Her less than quiet entrance drew the man's attention and he slowly angled around, attempting to face her. Thinking quickly, she cast a binding spell and halted his progress. She darted forward and threw back his hood, wanting to look into the eyes of the monster before she choked the life out of him with her bare hands.

But when she stepped away, a gasp escaped her throat. "You!" Lane Gargamell?

Shocked, she lost control of the binding spell, and he lunged, grasping her biceps in a biting grip.

He said one word. "Sleep." His gaze flashed with mage fire.

She had one fleeting thought. Aw, shit.

Her eyes slammed shut and her world went dark.

I'm very excited about this one. I love writing characters who think they're enemies but they're not.

 

That's it for this week.

Cheers!

Skye

Sunday Snippet: Oracle's Prayer

I'm still working on keeping all the plates spinning in the air. Finished up a few work projects and started more. I'm definitely not complaining even if I wouldn't mind things slowing down a wee bit.

Had a light week for television. I've pretty much decided that getting through one round of my rotation is doing well at the moment. I have some home projects that need attention and that cuts into screen time.

Caught another episode of Peak Practice and enjoyed it. I like how the trauma with Alice is still prevalent. And the surgeon guy is an interesting addition to the cast.

Watched another MasterClass lesson with Neil deGrasse Tyson. I've noticed he has a number of fairly short lessons and I'm not sure why they're not a little longer. They do have some great information.

Started The Babysitters Club and liked the first episode. I've heard rave reviews about this show and I'm looking forward to getting into the storyline.

Enjoyed another episode of the Ready Room for Star Trek: Discovery. I like the interviews but the format could use a little work. I'm keeping in mind that these were more than likely filmed during the Covid shutdown.

Watched an episode of Chicago Med. Ended up being pretty tense and gnarly for the entire ED. I'm a little bummed there wasn't an end scene with Ethan and April.

Caught another episode of The Snoopy Show. I love this for quick breaks when my eyes need something different to focus on instead of words on a page.

Finished up the first season of Cuffs. Have to admit the finale ended up being terrific. I wouldn't mind seeing more of this group of characters.

Watched an episode of Silent Witness and honestly, I have no clue what's going on. Not necessarily a bad thing, but I hope some pieces fall into place in the conclusion.

Started a new arc of Classic Who. So far, it's kind of lame but I think this one will get better as it goes along. Here's hoping.

Began a new-to-me series with Most Terrifying Places in America. The first episode featured a haunted prison in Ohio. I actually had a friend who went for one of the weekend excursions not long after it opened for tours. I can't remember if they enjoyed it or not.

Finished up the first season of Hawkeye by watching the deleted scenes and gag reel. I truly enjoyed this show. If they have a second season, I'm in.

Last but not least, I started another episode of Harrow and I'm liking how things are coming together for this season. Not sure how much I'll like the whole long, lost son angle, but I'm interested for now.

That's it for the life update. Tonight's post is from Oracle's Prayer, a novella that explores being undercover to catch a killer.

Here's the mini-blurb:

Nason Forn, the daughter of an oracle, goes undercover to trap a wicked mage preying on young apprentices and thinks she's found her man when she discovers Lane Garganess standing over the body of the latest victim. But Lane has a covert identity, too, which puts him in a bad spot and on the wrong end of Nason's wrath.

And a preview snippet…

Lane rapped twice on the study door then entered the room. "Dad. Thanks for seeing me."

Lawrence glanced over his shoulder. "Could've picked a less ungodly hour, but haven't heard from you in months. Thought I'd better see what this is all about." He went back to staring out the large pane of glass.

Lane gave his parent props. He only appeared slightly disheveled. His hair stuck up in several places, but he'd managed to get into a pair of silk pajamas and a robe that had the sheen of satin. Considering the two p.m. appointment time—early for his dad—Lane considered the attire as a peace offering. Usually, Lawrence lacked modesty on a normal day.

Strolling further into the wood-paneled space, Lane stopped by the ornate desk—strictly for show—and propped a hip on the surface. "You're not in trouble, if that has you worried." Unwilling to make small talk, he launched directly into his appeal. "I need your help with something." Stroking his dad's ego should help get cooperation.

Lawrence angled around. "You're kidding?" Genuine shock filled his voice.

Lane shook his head. "Nope. I need your general opinion on a group of people. An honest assessment, if you're willing."

Lawrence moved to the desk and pulled out the chair. "All right. But I expect to be compensated. After all, this is akin to consulting and I should receive a fee."

Lane almost rolled his eyes, but he'd anticipated his dad's response. "I had this amount in mind…" He reached into his coat pocket and withdrew a slip of paper.

Lawrence eyed the numbers and gave a nod. "This is fine. Who's on your list?"

Lane spent the next thirty minutes slyly pulling information from his dad. The nefarious contacts the man had boggled Lane's mind … even if he shouldn't be surprised.

Tucking his list back into a pocket, Lane stood up. "I appreciate the help. Funds will be transferred by the end of the day into your account." He started for the door to take his leave.

Lawrence stood up. "Should I know what this is about?"

Lane paused. "At this point, no. If that changes, I'll contact you right away."

His dad gave a grunt of dismissal and Lane made his exit.

On the way out of the house, he bumped into a woman coming up the walkway. He recognized her as one of the enforcers. Namon something. No … Nason Forn. But … she wore oracle robes.

Lane stopped her when she neared the main entryway. "I'm sorry, but the master of the house won't be needing your services today."

She arched a brow then quickly schooled her features. "I'm here at the appointed time." She showed him her schedule.

Lane frowned. His dad didn't usually put stock in the soothsayers of their clan. More likely, Ms. Forn created a very good cover story for visiting his father. Which wouldn't be a good thing at the moment.

Giving a nod, he grasped her elbow. "Sorry for the confusion. My dad's a little under the weather today. If you wouldn't mind giving him a call tomorrow, I'm sure he'll be happy to reschedule."

Her eyes widened slightly when he revealed his relationship to Lawrence, and she definitely didn't like to be sidetracked.

But she inclined her chin before lowering her head. "I'll do that. I hope he's feeling better soon." After a brief pause, she turned and headed back to her vehicle.

Lane studied her departure. She played the role of oracle well. But she carried herself with the confidence of an enforcer. He made a note to ask his geppa about her possible reason for showing up at his dad's house.

The last thing Lane needed would be interference before he got started on his investigation.

This one starts out with some cat and mouse maneuvers between the characters and I'm having a lot of fun writing their back and forth.

 

That's it for this week.

Cheers!

Skye

Sunday Snippet: Oracle's Prayer

I'm always blown away when July arrives and I realize half the year is really gone. The whole time speeds up when we get older thing is absolutely a thing.

Fairly busy week but stayed caught up with most of the shows I'm watching. Started out with In the Dark and watched two episodes. My heart kind of breaks for everyone on this show. And, again, I keep going back to how messy everything is. The episode with Murphy and Max on the run truly ended on a cliffhanger. Need to watch another episode soon.

                   

Caught an episode of Blade, the penultimate one. This series was ahead of its time and I wish it had the chance to realize its full potential.

Also caught the season finale of Chicago Fire, which ended on a cliffhanger. I literally had to call my dad—a retired fire chief and still active in our local department—to decompress. He's also a fan.

Watched another Classic Roswell episode. This one started moving the plot forward and tightening the bonds between the group. That means it's almost time for a wedge to show up and pull them all apart.

Frankie Drake Mysteries had a great episode. I loved how the women pulled all the threads to solve their case and it's interesting to see Frankie end up with a new enemy. Lots of fodder for future episodes.

Once again, Riverdale pulled out all the super batshit crazy it could find. I do love, love, love that FP is now the new sheriff. I'm dying to know what Hermoine meant when she said it's finally time. There better be a payoff there. Alice makes my head spin with her insane loyalty to the farm creepies. I truly hope I end up enjoying that storyline because I have a feeling that shit isn't going anywhere anytime soon. Kind of sad Veronica practically ran back into the fold when Hiram got shot but it makes for good conversation. Almost fell out of my seat when Tallboy arrived back on my screen. Can't say I'm upset he didn't stick around.

Watched an episode of Arrow and, wow, quite a few revelations. Having Emiko be the leader of the dark knights is just the kind of twist I like. Kind of sad she's pushing Laurel back toward her dark persona. That'll be interesting to see next week.

Caught another episode of Blue Heelers and can't say I liked the creepy dude they had to bring in to nab the home invaders. Kind of glad Doyle sent him packing and didn't fall for his creeptastic come-on lines. Geez. Also started a new episode but only got the first few minutes watched.

Krypton had a great episode. Glad Seg is free of Brainiac, or at least I hope he is. I love how twisty this show is right now. It's very hard to tell who is playing against who and I like that. Never knowing which direction a character will turn is fun.

I'm almost finished with Painkiller Jane. The standard groundhog day episode ended up being better than I remembered. I don't always love those kind of episodes.

Watched the season two premiere of Durham County and, yeah, this show is still dark and twisted. I love it.

That's pretty much it for television this week. Tonight's post is from Oracle's Prayer, a novella that got a start with a writing community prompt.

Here's the mini-blurb:

Nason Forn, the daughter of an oracle, goes undercover to trap a wicked mage preying on young apprentices and thinks she's found her man when she discovers Lane Garganess standing over the body of the latest victim. But Lane has a covert identity, too, which puts him in a bad spot and on the wrong end of Nason's wrath.

And a preview snippet…

Nason Forn paced back and forth in her mother's chambers. "Are you going to help me or not?" Why couldn't her mom do one thing for her?

Paloma quirked an eyebrow. "What is it that you seek?" She folded her hands within the sleeves of her robe.

Nason barely held back a snarl. "You're a goddamn oracle. You know what I need." Just once, she'd like to not play games with her mother.

Paloma inclined her head. "I do, yes. Yet you can't say the words." She rose, keeping her arms tucked inside the flowing fabric of her priestess garb. "Words you've known since birth. Words you'll need if you're going to bring the one who took our sweet Georgie away to justice." Her tone dropped to an angry level. "Words you'd better goddamn get used to speaking aloud if you want any hope of pulling this ill-advised charade off." She flung her head back and opened her arms, flinging them wide.

Nason blinked at the spectacle, something she should've been used to, growing up as the daughter of a powerful oracle. And… her mother had a valid point. Nason had to see past the specter of her past and embrace the spiritual side she buried deep.

She sighed. "I hate it when you're right." She turned, her hands clasped behind her back, and faced her mom. "Fine. Here we go… I seek knowledge from the oracle's heart. I crave wisdom from her sage beliefs. I pledge this gift will not be abused. Nor the advice be refused." The oracle's prayer—spoken by any who wanted a glimpse of their future or an interpretation of their dreams.

Paloma nodded and directed Nason to sit in a chair by the fire. "You did well, my daughter." She settled in the matching seat and tucked her legs under her robes.

Nason shrugged, uncomfortable with the praise. "Not like I haven't heard the prayer a million times in my life." Probably more.

Paloma shot Nason a sideways glance. "Hearing it is not the same as believing the prayer opens the doorway to interpretation and divination or that it makes a binding contract between the oracle and the seeker." She leaned forward a little. "Georgie believed. Her apprenticeship neared its end and she had strong ties to the order. Her loss hits everyone hard."

Nason's eyes welled but she refused to let the tears fall. "She was my best friend, Mom. You're not telling me anything I don't already know or feel to the depths of my soul." Georgie made the world not suck so badly.

Paloma reached out and clasped Nason's hand. "She was more than your best friend, Nason. Georgie was family, the sister of your heart and I'm sorry she'd gone." Her fingers squeezed Nason's. "But I firmly believe you'll bring her killer to justice."

Nason cocked her head and gave her mom a long look. "Have the mists revealed this?" Her mom rarely tried to divine Nason's future.

Paloma shook her head. "No, you know I don't pry into your futurescape. You'll find her killer and bring him in because it's what you do. Even though I hate the idea of you putting yourself in harm's way, I will help you in your quest." She let go of Nason's hand and eased back, leaning into the chair.

Nason held her mom's gaze. "Did the agency speak with you?" Her work with the enforcement division of the fae council never sat well with Paloma.

She lifted a shoulder. "Only one person spoke with me. Benton Dartworth. He asked me to keep our conversation confidential from anyone but you two." Her head tilted to one side. "There's more going on here, isn't there?"

Nason answered with the truth. "There always is, Mom. Ben can't be sure the killer isn't in the agency. He knows I'm not because of my relationship with Georgie." She gave her mom about three seconds before she'd figure out the rest.

Paloma's eyes went wide then she nodded. "And he's not the killer for the same reason." She waited a beat. "His relationship with Georgie."

Nason's lips twitched. "As usual, you get it in one." She tucked her feet under her legs, sitting in a similar position to Paloma. "When can we start, Mom?" Soon wouldn't be fast enough.

Paloma gazed into the fire before she answered. "First thing in the morning." She held up a hand, knowing Nason would object. "I have had a full day. And if you think for one moment I'm going to half-ass your training for this, you can get up and leave now. Twelve hours is not going to make a bit of difference in the killer's timeframe."

Nason pushed back a little. "It will if he kills another apprentice tonight."

Paloma sent her daughter a scathing glance. "No, it won't. I can't train you in ten minutes, Nason. We need at least a full day. Tomorrow night is soon enough for you to get started on the trail of justice."

Nason sighed and got up. "Fine, Mother. I'll be here bright and early. Does seven a.m. work for you?"

Paloma rose and shed her robe, neatly folding it and draping it over the back of the chair. "Yes, it does. Meet me in the garden and be prepared to immerse yourself into an intense training session." She followed Nason out of the chambers and to the front door.

Nason twisted the knob and stepped out onto the wide porch. "I'll be ready." She paused then hugged Paloma. "Thanks, Mom." Stepping back, she briefly caught sight of the sheen of tears in her mother's eyes.

Nason headed down the steps, unable to offer any reassurances. She had one mission and couldn't get started soon enough.

I'm pretty pleased with how this story is moving along. Nason and Lane have a twisty road to walk and it's going to be fun to see how they navigate.

That's it for this week.

Cheers!

Skye

Sunday Snippet: Oracle's Prayer

New television started for me this week. Gotham kicked off with a pretty solid premiere. I like Gordon playing bounty hunter. He's definitely got enough escapees to keep him busy. Really interested in where things go with Bruce and OtherBruce (aka Dude Who Looks Like Bruce).

Missed the premiere of Agents of SHIELD, but I'll catch up before the second episode. Looking forward to seeing how the team moves ahead.

Caught the second half of Van Helsing and I'm in for now. My fear is this show will be similar to Hunters where the first few episodes were good but things unraveled from there.

MacGyver ended up being better than I expected. As one of my favorite early adult shows, the original will be hard to beat. Then again, if the updated vibe continues and darker themes are explored, I could get behind the new reboot. Fingers crossed.

Needed some lighter fare, so started Miss Fisher's Murder Mysteries again. I'll get back to Strike Back soon. Can't leave Stonebridge and Scott hanging for too long. LOL

That's it for television this week. Tonight's post is from Oracle's Prayer, a novella that started with the two-word prompt "Bless you". I liked the idea of having a spiritual element in the story.

Here's the mini-blurb:

Nason Forn, the daughter of an oracle, goes undercover to trap a wicked mage preying on young apprentices and thinks she's found her man when she discovers Lane Garganess standing over the body of the latest victim. But Lane has a covert identity, too, which puts him in a bad spot and on the wrong end of Nason's wrath.

And a preview snippet…

Lane paced the length of his grandfather's study. "You can't let this slide, Geppa. We have to find out who's behind the killings." Geppa Leon had to get out in front of the oracle slayings.

Leon frowned. "Exactly how do you propose I do so? You said yourself we can't trust the enforcement ranks. If I can't use them, I have no one else." His mouth thinned to a slash across his face.

The stubborn, old goat. Couldn't see what stood directly in front of him.

Lane growled. "Yes, you do, old man. You have me." He stopped and faced his grandfather. "Unless you don't trust me, either."

Leon snorted. "You're about the only one I do trust." Meaning Lane's dad hadn't made the list.

The old man's disappointment remained unspoken. Lawrence Garganess should be above reproach, but his thirst for debauchery and depravity made him a possible suspect in the murders. Lane didn't think his dad would cross the line into territory that might see him banished—the man relied on his connection to Leon too much to fuck it up entirely. The financial wherewithal that came with being related to the premier of the ruling house usually kept Lawrence in check, either by the threat of losing his considerable wealth or by freezing his accounts so he had to make an appearance to regain access.

Leon heaved a sigh. "You think your dad might be involved, don't you?"

Lane pinned his geppa with a hard stare. "I can't discount the possibility." He moved to crouch in front of Leon. "And neither can you. Let me do some digging, make inquiries." If nothing else, eliminating his dad would help point in the right direction.

Leon went quiet, gazing into the fire. No doubt he sought wisdom in the flames. Lane stayed put, unwilling to leave in case Geppa slid into a trance. The preternatural ability of divination often took a lot out of the old man.

A moment later, Leon blinked, coming back into himself. He met Lane's gaze and held it for a long second.

Lane broke the silence. "What did you see, Geppa?" He held breath, not sure he wanted to know.

Leon's mouth curved in a half smile. "Not what you're thinking, Lane. I didn't look to see if Lawrence had anything to hide." He paused, reaching for his glass of scotch before taking a sip.

Lane exhaled slowly. "Then why divine the flames?"

Leon placed the tumbler on the table again. "To make sure you'd be safe, Lane. My son can't rule, I won't allow him to." Disappointment filled his tone. "You're my heir. I have to think of the future."

Lane rose and moved to stand before the fire. "Meaning what, Geppa?" If the old man wouldn't cave, Lane would defy him.

Leon came to his feet, made his way to Lane's side, and laid a hand on his shoulder. "See what you can find out, Lane. I don't like the way the flames are dancing right now."

Lane gave a quick nod. "I'll see myself out, Good night, Geppa." Without waiting for a response, Lane exited the room and left the manor house.

Letting the cool air fill his lungs, Lane squared his shoulders. He had a new mission and planned to start right away.

The spell and spycraft is a lot of fun to write and I can't wait to dig deeper on this and work out all the angles.

That's it for this week.

Cheers!

Skye

Sunday Snippet: Oracle's Prayer

Hello,

I feel kind of off balance since there's no new Orphan Black to rave about this week. LOL

But... Defiance held up against its premiere, no complaints. In fact, I'm really enjoying the shift in dynamics. The mayor totally creeps me out, and that's a good thing. The actor who plays him is one of my faves and it's fun to see him in something of a villainous role. And not that I have any expectations, but I'm thrilled Nolan and Amanda aren't dancing around each other and drawing crap out. Doesn't bode well, I'm sure, but half the fun of watching is to see where the writers take things.

Oddly, Dominion is keeping my attention, too. Didn't have loads of confidence, but I still want to find out what happens next. I also finished a rewatch of Bitten and I'm on the second season of a Canadian show—Arctic Air. I have a list of shows from Canada I'm looking forward to watching. Stay tuned. J

Tonight's post is from Oracle's Prayer, a novella where the main characters start out playing a game of cat and mouse.

Here's the tagline:

Nason Forn, the daughter of an oracle, goes undercover to trap a wicked mage preying on young apprentices and thinks she's found her man when she discovers Lane Garganess standing over the body of the latest victim. But Lane has a covert identity, too, which puts him in a bad spot and on the wrong end of Nason's wrath.

And a preview snippet…

Nason stumbled into the chamber and stopped short. A robed man stood over the prone—and no doubt dead—apprentice. She hadn't made it in time. Dammit, dammit, dammit.

Her less than quiet entrance drew the man's attention and he slowly angled around, attempting to face her. Thinking quickly, she cast a binding spell and halted his progress. She darted forward and threw back his hood, wanting to look into the eyes of the monster before she choked the life out of him with her bare hands.

But when she stepped away, a gasp escaped her throat. "You!" Shocked, she lost control of the binding spell and he lunged, grasping her biceps in a biting grip.

He said one word. "Sleep."

Her eyes slammed shut and her world went dark.

Really short snippet tonight, but I hope it whets the appetite for more. J

That's it for this week.

Cheers!

Skye