L.A. Millett's Blog, page 5

Twelve Dancing Princes – A Reimagined Fairy Tale

It was no secret that the eleven Peterson girls enjoyed being at the centre of London’s social attention.

Every night the struggles of the day were thrown into the night as glitter painted their faces. Each morning they would return to the converted factory. Seven glorious floors, twenty bedrooms, countless bathrooms; an apartment that their father Mr. Peterson could watch over his girls.

However, their nightly antics had not gone unnoticed. Men from around the world threw themselves to their feet, in hope that one day they would be good enough to marry into the family. The prestige and privileged the Petersons held ensured that no man would ever swindle the family out of the fortunes that had been made, not without the proper vetting process every boyfriend had faced. With every precaution the girls grew wiser, finding new ways to exercise their freedom. It was only after quite the scandal with a notorious usurper and social climber, Mr. Peterson had decided the only way to protect his hard-earned money was to ban them from ever leaving without constant supervision.

“You are forbidden to leave this home between ten at night and eight in the morning. I know eight is normally the time you decide to come home but it will now be the time you get up and focus on something. Imelda, do you not want to continue your classic studies?”

Imelda could feel her face burn as the other sisters stared on at her.

“It’s not fair, Geoffrey gets to go out whenever he wants.” Beatrice sighed. Stood in the doorway the only son shook his head.

“Geoffrey hardly ever leaves the confines of this home. Always studying to take over the business someday while you girls parade yourselves all over London. Bringing nothing but shame and disgrace to this family.”

The cool words fell on deaf ears.

“So, what’s the plan?” Ruby would not take no for an answer. Perhaps if Mr. Peterson had let her, she would be a great candidate to run the business.

“We’ve escaped before.” Lucinda was daring than most.

“But he found out how we escaped. It can’t be another awful plan from you, Alicia.” As the eldest, Sinead took control over the situations.

“Whatever plan you gang of idiots come up with, you will be found.”

“What makes you think that Geoffrey?” Lavender questioned.

“Because Natalie, Joyce, Freida, and Morgan always tell father what you have done.”

Eleven shrieks could be heard from that enlarged seating room as they began to quarrel over their loyalties to each other.

“It’s ok for you standing sniggering at us all. You never leave here unless you’re going for a meeting with father. Or getting a new suit!” Imelda cried.

“You think that’s the only time I leave? Sweethearts, I have left every night and have been back by the morning before anyone wakes up, for the last ten years.”

Puzzled, the sisters looked at their only brother. How could he possibly have got away with leaving the reinforced, military security compound without anyone noticing for ten years? Perhaps this was the push they all needed to find their own feet. Aged between 21 and 30, none of them had worked. Family money kept them dressed and have them a gorgeous home to live in. Or perhaps this could be the beginning of the relationship Geoffrey had always wanted with his sisters, gaining their trust and helping them breakout.

“But how?”

“Easily. All these old factories have links underground. There’s sewers or the underground tunnels. The tunnel underneath us leads directly into the stock room for Heaven.”

“The gay bar?”

“I guess you’re learning a lot of things tonight.” Geoffrey looked at the smiling faces of his sisters.

Not to cause any suspicion they decided it would be best for them not to take the mysterious tunnel to Heaven tonight. Instead, years that had been missed between the siblings were slowly being regained. Geoffrey had hated how isolated he was from his sisters. Never having anyone he could confide in as he was growing up and discovering himself. It was only on his seventeenth birthday after his fake friends had gone, the bitterness of being lonely hit him. Deciding no one would miss him if he disappeared for an hour or so, the empty underbelly of the apartment was explored. It was then the tunnel was found and moments later an underaged Geoffrey was drinking tequila like it wasn’t his first time.

“How have you stopped our father from discovering it?”

“The tunnel is hidden behind a wall I put in myself and in front of that is where I park my Jeep.”

“The one you never drive because it’s too big! Tomorrow night we have to go!”

“We will but there’s a catch.”

Geoffrey continued to explain that in order to sneak past everyone he would wear his long hair down and throw a pink bubble jacket and jeans on.

“So, you look exactly like one of us.”

“I have a plan for tomorrow then.” Alicia was excited to get out of the apartment, getting the chance to spend time with her brother.

“I hope you’re not going to say wear our hair up and put a suit on.” Lavender snorted with laughter.

“If you don’t want to get caught, that’s what you all need to do.” Geoffrey smiled at his sisters.

After their night of revelations, the morning sun woke them up. For the rest of the day, they acted how they should. Imelda continued lessons in classical studies. Lavender perfected her vibrato. Ruby took a protest to her father’s office demanding that she could study and work alongside her brother in the company.

Soon enough eleven sisters found themselves dressed slickly in suits ready for their brother to help them escape.

“Only one of us can be seen at a time. Go to the car and wait. If you see anyone, hide. The cars are open. “

The mission was for the sisters to go down first with Geoffrey following them. One by one they arrived waiting patiently for the last person to arrive. Twenty minutes had passed when Geoffrey laughed at their petrified faces.

“Did you think it was our father?”

The walls were genius. Panelled wood swept over, hiding the secret passage. Ten minutes of walking in the dark, a quick change and they were ready to dance.

The nightly escapades continued for a month without suspicion. However, it soon became apparent that all twelve were too tired during their meetings and studies. The bills for new shoes was growing at an alarming rate.

Mr. Peterson knew all twelve of his children were up to something but what was the question. Being no fool, he rushed to hire a private detective to find out what his daughters were getting up to. He promised them they could choose one of his children to marry if successful.

Another month had passed and the first detective found himself without a job. This became the pattern for the next year. No matter how hard they tried to find where they left from, no one could figure it out. Yet, more pictures circulated of the famous Peterson children in the morning news.

Mr. Peterson was soon to give up hope when an email caught his attention. A gentleman promised to find exactly where his family kept disappearing to, he knew the clubs they were found in. It wouldn’t take him long to catch them.

“Edmond, lovely to meet you.” The next day Mr. Peterson welcomed Edmond as the others were out.

“A privilege to meet you, sir. I don’t mean to be blunt but before I can accept this job I need to explain I have a certain way of working. Prior to my arrival how were the other detectives brought into the home?”

“We disguised them as chefs.”

“Conveniently you would have a new chef every month?”

“Well yes, it wouldn’t be that odd if we changed our chef.”

“But still the first of every month there is a new chef. They know to avoid there. I will only arrive after they have retired for the night. After this, I will sit in your security control room. They will not know I’m there.”

“And you expect the same pay?”

“Yes, and to marry one of your lovely offspring as promised.” Edmond serious tone did not make way for any light-heartedness. He was striking in his appearance and manners. Tall, obviously spent every spare moment he could in the gym and dark eyes to match his brown hair.

It had become routine now for them all to go to bed at ten. It would give them enough time to be ready by twelve and then leave. Clothes hidden in gym bags and suits on, their normal plan unfolded. Only this time, instead of a lazy man waiting for them to leave out the back door, side gate, or ludicrously straight out the front door, Edmond’s eyes were glued to the tiny monitors.

A flash of a suit and Edmond assumed it was Geoffrey. A minute later another Geoffrey walking the same way, this one slightly shorter. Each minute saw another Geoffrey walk past. Until finally, the real Geoffrey walked slowly down the hall to the lift and into the car park. Swiftly, Edmond followed.

Catching a glimpse from behind a car, it was obvious how they had all been leaving without anyone knowing. Waiting ten minutes, Edmond proceeded to open the hidden panelled door, leading him directly to eleven suits on the floor next to a case of Grey Goose.

Armed with information, Edmond left the twelve siblings to enjoy their night. He knew tomorrow everything would change for them.

Like clockwork, the twelve-drunken brother and sisters stumbled in and climbed into their beds. It seemed like only moments later they were awake again.

“Get up! Father is furious! Get up and go to the dining room on the second floor! Now!” Ruby ushered everyone out.

As the Petersons took a seat at the table, Mr. Peterson emptied out a large sack filled with broke heels and destroyed leather brogues.

“For over a year I have been questioning whether or not I was losing my mind. Broken shoes, new dresses, new suits and the stench of alcohol first thing in the morning. But it seems I cannot keep you girls away from going out! Geoffrey, I am most disappointed in you for letting your sisters convince you to follow in their shoes.” A brief laugh was muted.

“It was me who convinced them to come with me, to leave as I have for the past eleven years. To have them by my side working together as we should.” Geoffrey defended his sisters. It only took one year to reverse twenty-eight.

“That’s enough. I won’t punish you any longer. It’s evident I have twelve bright children, but you are adults now. This past year it has been a relief to see you all work towards something other than your social media. With that being said, I have promised Edmond his choice to marry. Do not argue. It’s about time at least one of you settled down and left. Edmond your choice?”

“Geoffrey.”

“I don’t think he’s gay Edmond.”

“He is.” Ruby smiled at her brother.

Of course, if you know Mr. Peterson, his shrewd business nature may make you think he wasn’t understanding. However, after Edmond chose Geoffrey he congratulated them both.

Naturally, it didn’t last long. Two complete strangers are unlikely to find their happy ever after with each other. Nevertheless, Geoffrey kept Edmond around as his personal security.

Ruby and Geoffrey went on to take over their father’s business and within thirty years more than tripled their personal net worth. Imelda gained her doctorate in classical studies and still teaches in Oxford.

The other sisters led fulfilling lives and careers including authors, politicians, and singers.

No matter how far away they are, the twelve Peterson siblings always laugh about the time they dressed in suits to dance the night away.

They became affectionately known as The Twelve Dancing Princes.

Fairy Tales for Adults – Why We Need Them More Now

Good evening/morning/afternoon, wherever you are! The past few weeks have been a bit crazy again. Finally, I have had some time to sit down and continue working on my collection of adult fairy tales.

What would be the purpose of writing the modern-day adult fairy tale? 

Simply, there are many times we forget what is important. With jobs, social events and the quest to quench the thirst for money, it seems we forget the lessons we were taught as children. Learning how to show compassion, kindness, and sharing. These were once the top of our agenda. As we grow, we replace our core values with ambition and determination. Of course, there is nothing wrong with that but staying humble as we travel around the wheel of fortune is important.

Give to the homeless. Help a colleague, not hinder them because you’re scared they then might take your promotion.

Never forget how it felt not quite fitting in and the person who helped you overcome this.

So, in my next post will be the first story in that will be in the book. Please let me know what you think!

 

Laura

x

Wicca – The Truth Behind Lies

When I was five I stood in the rain. A year later, at the age of six, I became obsessed with the outdoors and being surrounded by trees. Turning nine I found lighting candles and sitting by fires connected me to something I could not describe. I realised I was a witch the day I stood in comfort as the wind turbulently rocked the boat I travelled on. An exhilarating show of nature’s powers.

Everyone assumes being a witch means having extraordinary powers that can defeat their natural enemies. The werewolves, vampires, demons. In truth, being a witch is far more exciting than that.

The laws of Wicca have eight words ‘an ye harm none, do as ye will’.

These are words from a tender age I have stuck to regimentally stuck to. This was without the knowledge that such a belief system existed. I knew only of Christianity. So, hearing the word witch conjures up the belief of ‘devil worshipping’. Saying this to anyone who practises Wicca or Paganism would, of course, leave them laughing uncontrollably. It seems so ridiculous that we would be associated with a Christian characterisation of evil.

I guess that is exactly what it was. Associating an opposition, a different way of life, with something you can understand. This was evident in the purges carried out during the rule of Constantine the Great. This isn’t the first time this method has been used. Throughout history, those persecuted for their differences were greeted in the same way. Diagnosed as something incomprehensibly evil.

To be clear, Satan is not a Wiccan or Pagan god. He does not exist to us. However, if you feel eternal damnation and pain is the way to steer you away from what is right and wrong then that is your choice. One I will respect. It is not my place to judge anyone or any religion.

However, it is not my belief. My belief is simple. ‘An ye harm none, do as ye will’. Easy to follow, isn’t it? In short, don’t inflict mental or physical pain to a human or animal.

My religion is in the elements My place of worship is anywhere nature graces.

However, I have come to understand in the years I have worn the pentagram how secluded the Wiccan community has made themselves. Thankfully there are some through the screens across the world who are happy to share their knowledge and time with each other.

Many live very alienated lives. Or perhaps, agent lived would be a better description. I know myself I have done it. Covered up the pentagram, hidden the candles away. Ensured all Wiccan and Pagan books were safely out of the reach of everyone and anyone who knew me.

It’s exhausting being two people at once. The socially acceptable person who nods along every time Love Island is mentioned. Or discusses the Real Housewives of Cheshire at great lengths.

Then there’s the real person. The one who plans their Sabbats (to note even a Word document is trying to get me to change this to Sabbaths!). Samhain, as others are finding outfits to represent the terrors of the world, I plan my New Year. What it will bring. What ritual I will perform. Yule is always fun, whilst others are wondering what gifts to give I’m always thinking what can the next part of this year bring me.

Until recently, I never realised what a double life I led until a friend discussed with me her new found spirituality. It has been nice for a change to have someone to talk to about the Sabbats. To discuss how the change in the air feels without fear of being mocked.

I guess in writing this I’m hoping more Wiccans will join me in celebrating our belief by talking about it openly with each other and those who want to listen.

Love to all

Laura

x

Fairy Tales for Adults – Twelve Dancing Princes

Good evening/morning/afternoon, wherever you are! The past few weeks have been a bit crazy again. Finally, I have had some time to sit down and continue working on my collection of adult fairy tales.

What would be the purpose of writing the modern day adult fairy tale? 

Simply, there are many times we forget what is important. With jobs, social events and the quest to quench the thirst for money, it seems we forget the lessons we were taught as children. Learning how to show compassion, kindness, and sharing. These were once the top of our agenda. As we grow, we replace our core values with ambition and determination. Of course, there is nothing wrong with that but staying humble as we travel around the wheel of fortune is important.

Give to the homeless. Help a colleague, not hinder them because you’re scared they then might take your promotion.

Never forget how it felt not quite fitting in and the person who helped you overcome this.

So, below is the first story in that will be in the book. Please let me know what you think!

 

Laura

x

 

[image error]Photo by Pixabay on Pexels.com

 

Twelve Dancing Princes

 

It was no secret that the eleven Peterson girls enjoyed being at the centre of London’s social attention.

Every night the struggles of the day were thrown into the night as glitter painted their faces. Each morning they would return to the converted factory. Seven glorious floors, twenty bedrooms, countless bathrooms; an apartment that their father Mr. Peterson could watch over his girls.

However, their nightly antics had not gone unnoticed. Men from around the world threw themselves to their feet, in hope that one day they would be good enough to marry into the family. The prestige and privileged the Petersons held ensured that no man would ever swindle the family out of the fortunes that had been made, not without the proper vetting process every boyfriend had faced. With every precaution the girls grew wiser, finding new ways to exercise their freedom. It was only after quite the scandal with a notorious usurper and social climber, Mr. Peterson had decided the only way to protect his hard-earned money was to ban them from ever leaving without constant supervision.

“You are forbidden to leave this home between ten at night and eight in the morning. I know eight is normally the time you decide to come home but it will now be the time you get up and focus on something. Imelda, do you not want to continue your classic studies?”

Imelda could feel her face burn as the other sisters stared on at her.

“It’s not fair, Geoffrey gets to go out whenever he wants.” Beatrice sighed. Stood in the doorway the only son shook his head.

“Geoffrey hardly ever leaves the confines of this home. Always studying to take over the business someday while you girls parade yourselves all over New York. Bringing nothing but shame and disgrace to this family.”

The cool words fell on deaf ears.

“So, what’s the plan?” Ruby would not take no for an answer. Perhaps if Mr. Peterson had let her, she would be a great candidate to run the business.

“We’ve escaped before.” Lucinda was daring than most.

“But he found out how we escaped. It can’t be another awful plan from you, Alicia.” As the eldest, Sinead took control over the situations.

“Whatever plan you gang of idiots come up with, you will be found.”

“What makes you think that Geoffrey?” Lavender questioned.

“Because Natalie, Joyce, Freida, and Morgan always tell father what you have done.”

Eleven shrieks could be heard from that enlarged seating room as they began to quarrel over their loyalties to each other.

“It’s ok for you standing sniggering at us all. You never leave here unless you’re going for a meeting with father. Or getting a new suit!” Imelda cried.

“You think that’s the only time I leave? Sweethearts, I have left every night and have been back by the morning before anyone wakes up, for the last ten years.”

Puzzled, the sisters looked at their only brother. How could he possibly have got away with leaving the reinforced, military security compound without anyone noticing for ten years? Perhaps this was the push they all needed to find their own feet. Aged between 21 and 30, none of them had worked. Family money kept them dressed and have them a gorgeous home to live in. Or perhaps this could be the beginning of the relationship Geoffrey had always wanted with his sisters, gaining their trust and helping them breakout.

“But how?”

“Easily. All these old factories have links underground. There’s sewers or the underground tunnels. The tunnel underneath us leads directly into the stock room for Heaven.”

“The gay bar?”

“I guess you’re learning a lot of things tonight.” Geoffrey looked at the smiling faces of his sisters.

Not to cause any suspicion they decided it would be best for them not to take the mysterious tunnel to Heaven tonight. Instead, years that had been missed between the siblings were slowly being regained. Geoffrey had hated how isolated he was from his sisters. Never having anyone he could confide in as he was growing up and discovering himself. It was only on his seventeenth birthday after his fake friends had gone, the bitterness of being lonely hit him. Deciding no one would miss him if he disappeared for an hour or so, the empty underbelly of the apartment was explored. It was then the tunnel was found and moments later an underaged Geoffrey was drinking tequila like it wasn’t his first time.

“How have you stopped our father from discovering it?”

“The tunnel is hidden behind a wall I put in myself and in front of that is where I park my Jeep.”

“The one you never drive because it’s too big! Tomorrow night we have to go!”

“We will but there’s a catch.”

Geoffrey continued to explain that in order to sneak past everyone he would wear his long hair down and throw a pink bubble jacket and jeans on.

“So, you look exactly like one of us.”

“I have a plan for tomorrow then.” Alicia was excited to get out of the apartment, getting the chance to spend time with her brother.

“I hope you’re not going to say wear our hair up and put a suit on.” Lavender snorted with laughter.

“If you don’t want to get caught, that’s what you all need to do.” Geoffrey smiled at his sisters.

After their night of revelations, the morning sun woke them up. For the rest of the day, they acted how they should. Imelda continued lessons in classical studies. Lavender perfected her vibrato. Ruby took a protest to her father’s office demanding that she could study and work alongside her brother in the company.

Soon enough eleven sisters found themselves dressed slickly in suits ready for their brother to help them escape.

“Only one of us can be seen at a time. Go to the car and wait. If you see anyone, hide. The cars are open. “

The mission was for the sisters to go down first with Geoffrey following them. One by one they arrived waiting patiently for the last person to arrive. Twenty minutes had passed when Geoffrey laughed at their petrified faces.

“Did you think it was our father?”

The walls were genius. Panelled wood swept over, hiding the secret passage. Ten minutes of walking in the dark, a quick change and they were ready to dance.

The nightly escapades continued for a month without suspicion. However, it soon became apparent that all twelve were too tired during their meetings and studies. The bills for new shoes was growing at an alarming rate.

Mr. Peterson knew all twelve of his children were up to something but what was the question. Being no fool, he rushed to hire a private detective to find out what his daughters were getting up to. He promised them they could choose one of his children to marry if successful.

Another month had passed and the first detective found himself without a job. This became the pattern for the next year. No matter how hard they tried to find where they left from, no one could figure it out. Yet, more pictures circulated of the famous Peterson children in the morning news.

Mr. Peterson was soon to give up hope when an email caught his attention. A gentleman promised to find exactly where his family kept disappearing to, he knew the clubs they were found in. It wouldn’t take him long to catch them.

“Edmond, lovely to meet you.” The next day Mr. Peterson welcomed Edmond as the others were out.

“A privilege to meet you, sir. I don’t mean to be blunt but before I can accept this job I need to explain I have a certain way of working. Prior to my arrival how were the other detectives brought into the home?”

“We disguised them as chefs.”

“Conveniently you would have a new chef every month?”

“Well yes, it wouldn’t be that odd if we changed our chef.”

“But still the first of every month there is a new chef. They know to avoid there. I will only arrive after they have retired for the night. After this, I will sit in your security control room. They will not know I’m there.”

“And you expect the same pay?”

“Yes, and to marry one of your lovely offspring as promised.” Edmond serious tone did not make way for any light-heartedness. He was striking in his appearance and manners. Tall, obviously spent every spare moment he could in the gym and dark eyes to match his brown hair.

It had become routine now for them all to go to bed at ten. It would give them enough time to be ready by twelve and then leave. Clothes hidden in gym bags and suits on, their normal plan unfolded. Only this time, instead of a lazy man waiting for them to leave out the back door, side gate, or ludicrously straight out the front door, Edmond’s eyes were glued to the tiny monitors.

A flash of a suit and Edmond assumed it was Geoffrey. A minute later another Geoffrey walking the same way, this one slightly shorter. Each minute saw another Geoffrey walk past. Until finally, the real Geoffrey walked slowly down the hall to the lift and into the car park. Swiftly, Edmond followed.

Catching a glimpse from behind a car, it was obvious how they had all been leaving without anyone knowing. Waiting ten minutes, Edmond proceeded to open the hidden panelled door, leading him directly to eleven suits on the floor next to a case of Grey Goose.

Armed with information, Edmond left the twelve siblings to enjoy their night. He knew tomorrow everything would change for them.

Like clockwork, the twelve-drunken brother and sisters stumbled in and climbed into their beds. It seemed like only moments later they were awake again.

“Get up! Father is furious! Get up and go to the dining room on the second floor! Now!” Ruby ushered everyone out.

As the Petersons took a seat at the table, Mr. Peterson emptied out a large sack filled with broke heels and destroyed leather brogues.

“For over a year I have been questioning whether or not I was losing my mind. Broken shoes, new dresses, new suits and the stench of alcohol first thing in the morning. But it seems I cannot keep you girls away from going out! Geoffrey, I am most disappointed in you for letting your sisters convince you to follow in their shoes.” A brief laugh was muted.

“It was me who convinced them to come with me, to leave as I have for the past eleven years. To have them by my side working together as we should.” Geoffrey defended his sisters. It only took one year to reverse twenty-eight.

“That’s enough. I won’t punish you any longer. It’s evident I have twelve bright children, but you are adults now. This past year it has been a relief to see you all work towards something other than your social media. With that being said, I have promised Edmond his choice to marry. Do not argue. It’s about time at least one of you settled down and left. Edmond your choice?”

“Geoffrey.”

“I don’t think he’s gay Edmond.”

“He is.” Ruby smiled at her brother.

Of course, if you know Mr. Peterson, his shrewd business nature may make you think he wasn’t understanding. However, after Edmond chose Geoffrey he congratulated them both.

Naturally, it didn’t last long. Two complete strangers are unlikely to find their happy ever after with each other. Nevertheless, Geoffrey kept Edmond around as his personal security.

Ruby and Geoffrey went on to take over their father’s business and within thirty years more than tripled their personal net worth. Imelda gained her doctorate in classical studies and still teaches in Oxford.

The other sisters led fulfilling lives and careers including authors, politicians, and singers.

No matter how far away they are, the twelve Peterson siblings always laugh about the time they dressed in suits to dance the night away. The twelve dancing princes as they affectionately became known as.

Samhain and Fairy Tales

As we approach October it has given me time to reflect on various aspects of the year.

I can’t be the only person who feels that October and Autumn feels more like the New Year than January!

So, come 31st of October I will take great joy in celebrating Samhain. Of course, Halloween will be honoured as always.

I’m open with my beliefs and as many know I practise Wicca. It has been a glorious year for meeting new witches and helping those new to their path.

However, regardless of your religion or belief, I wish you all a great Autumn with fantastic luck and buckets of love.

For my writing, I’m excited as Verdorso takes on new elements and exciting times.

Currently the next in the series won’t be released until middle next year. This is due to a new project I have started.

An adult fairy tale anthology.

My heart yearns for a time when opening a new fairy tale book would mean exploring not just one story but many.

This is what, hopefully, I will achieve with this new project. Taking on fairy tales from all around the world, given a modern setting and including every human form.

Have a great Sunday everyone! Let me know your Halloween plans!

 

Laura

x

Samhain and Fairytales

As we approach October it has given me time to reflect on various aspects of the year.

I can’t be the only person who feels that October and Autumn feels more like the New Year than January!

So, come 31st of October I will take great joy in celebrating Samhain. Of course, Halloween will be honoured as always.

I’m open with my beliefs and as many know I practise Wicca. It has been a glorious year for meeting new witches and helping those new to their path.

However, regardless of your religion or belief, I wish you all a great Autumn with fantastic luck and buckets of love.

For my writing, I’m excited as Verdorso takes on new elements and exciting times.

Currently the next in the series won’t be released until middle next year. This is due to a new project I have started.

An adult fairytale anthology.

My heart yearns for a time when opening a new fairytale book would mean exploring not just one story but many.

This is what, hopefully, I will achieve with this new project. Taking on fairytales from all around the world, given a modern setting and including every human form.

Have a great Sunday everyone! Let me know your Halloween plans!

 

Laura

x

Maps: Finding Fantasy The Easy Way

It’s no doubt that with every great adventure fantasy novel there is always a map.

It helps us understand the newly created places. Learn a little more of what the author had in mind.

Of course, when our imagination runs low a map can be the instrument to spark it once again.

For me, having a map now to show what I see when I think of Verdorso is a fantastic tool. Seeing the lands and rivers the way I see them in my mind.

The copy will be uploaded fully over the next few days and added into the eBook.

I hope it makes visiting Verdorso in your mind a little easier.

 

 

Decimation of Earth

The Halloween Ridge became the Halloween Hole as more of Antarctica crumbled into desert winds. My uncle would tell the story every time the sun became too hot. No one listened when he mentioned the ice melting at extortionate rates. When life was simple, people found denying at every turn that climate change was changing our world would be an easier option. Ignorance is not bliss. Bliss was once feeling the seasons change from winter to spring. Seeing new life created and flowers resurrected when the warm winds called them.

Summer was always the time we adored. It brought later nights, warmer weather and the much-needed vitamin D that nourished our bodies.

[image error]Photo by Pixabay on Pexels.com

Now, Summer is what we fear. When the sky started to burn and the trees were alight, the light called us underground. A life of night.

We started cutting trees down long before the summer set fire to them. It made it easier to see them go. Easier to watch a vivacious green land turn to a grey and orange dust. You see, no longer can any human sustain burning from the sun. The climate change and rise in gas omissions saw our protective ozone layer peel back. The long nights no longer brought fun and festivities. The Sun was our God and we its slaves. So, underground we went. To hide from the heat, we built ‘summer homes’. A hole in the ground, a final resting place for mankind. At the top of the hole we would soak dried, clay-like soil in water, to stop the fires.

Summer had become a nocturnal occasion. The coolest times were during the night. Perfect time to collect whatever water you could find; whatever food could be found.

A barren land filled with despair and humans desperate for survival. Doesn’t sound like the futuristic life we all expected.

Before the change slowly came upon us, over population had us walking in lines to reach one place or the next. No freedom to walk where we wanted. Death was so feared that the extension of human life became essential. There has only been one certain factor in life, death. They, the governments, were desperate to find new places to home the ever-growing population. Yet, it would only be those who could afford a new life granted the gift of survival. Of course, it would be amazing to watch as humans colonise on different planets, and we did. So once Ross 128 b was found, money was given in copious amounts to find new ways for humans to live life as normal on the new planet. Even more money was given to find other planets that we could eventually destroy. No thought was given to Earth as they left one colony at a time. Watching from afar as the Earth burned and died before them. Earth was meant to last, not humans.

We found that the hard way. Those not strong enough to survive extreme temperatures, and could not leave the planet, died within the years that the sea levels buried entire cities beneath them.

[image error]Photo by Pixabay on Pexels.com

Autumn was always my favourite season. Watching the summer come to an end and cooler days float in. Sadly, Autumn now brought uncertainty. We knew that the groundwater would disappear with the heat. We could only hope that the change in season would change that. Providing us with sustainable soil to grow food.

My mother would speak of a time when soil was rich in water, water that wouldn’t threaten to make you sick. I guess out of all the adjustments, finding clean water was the hardest. So, with every Autumn came movement. It was too hot to travel during summer and the days were too long. Travelling in Autumn was the safest season. Scouring the empty lands to find where hadn’t been too badly hit by the sun, with clean water nearby. Finding water was hard but clean water, it was almost impossible. Clean, unpolluted water meant two things, food and hydration.

My father told me about when the warnings first began. They started lightly in the early days. Gentle reminders for people to think about what they left on beaches. Take their waste with them and recycle it. Next, waste management companies were targeted for not correctly disposing of rubbish. However, kept inside hidden walls was the toxic pollution from chemicals. Next, oil spills, once were perceived as a disaster soon became normal as corporations ploughed the Earth for whatever was left.

Soon enough, no one cared any more. It was cheaper and easier to receive a fine than to treat the toxins or dispose of the plastics correctly. The governments stopped caring. Great lakes that were once homed different species of fish were now toxic bubble baths that eroded the rocks around them. The barriers were melted away and soon the lands were infected so badly that nothing could grow.

Travel. This was the meaning of Autumn now. It would start with exploring the lands left for growing food and if you were lucky, uninfected fish. Of course, there would only be a small quiet time before we found ourselves moving again. Looking for shelter from whatever winter would bring.

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The remains of cities and houses scattered around provided the obvious choice for a winter home. These were the places to avoid. It was easier to take risks in the wild than with other humans. We headed for higher grounds that had hidden caves where we could all escape when the temperatures plummeted. Winter was unbearable. The polluted air made it harder to breathe. The layer of freezing cold air was sealed in by a layer of warmer air; trapping carbon monoxide and other toxins into the air we breathed. Finding home slightly above ground with some trees around was essential for surviving the winter.

Of course, winter felt longer than summer. With nothing to do, no internet, nothing manmade left to entertain yourself. The increase in natural disasters swept away the technology we had once built. Modern medicine reverted to home remedies and shortened life spans. The Earth could no longer carry out the excessive demands humans expected. The Earth was finally reclaiming its lands.

Winter passed quickly and soon it was spring. As the rivers thawed and gathered in pools around the winter palace, it made a good place to stay for growing more crops again.

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Spring, to start this year, was easy but more mutations could be felt. In the middle of spring it started to feel like the beginning of summer. A highly concerning thought. There was not enough food yet that would see us through the long days of solitude. We had some clean water but the rest would need to be cleansed. That would take time and heat. Heat that would decimate any energy we had left. It would render us weak. So, we waited to see if this was a fluke, a day or so of unusual heat. After a week had passed it was evident it wasn’t going to get any cooler. This was it now. The summer now commanded spring. We had to leave in search of land easy to dig. This year we headed towards the coast hoping a trench could be dug to live in before it was too hot.

Three days after reaching the coast my auntie died from heat exhaustion. The body was wrapped in cloth and burnt far away from our summer home. This was to stop any wild animals from finding the scent and leading them to us. Animals hunted as they always had. Being exposed to the wild animals that roamed the lands was not the best thing to do. Digging another hole took up too much of our wasting energy.

I looked to my mother once more. Her skin is peeling under the blistering sky fire. Lips cracked and bleeding. Teeth slowly fall out without touching them, water had truly left her body. I knew she will be the next body burnt. I fear with my skin bubbling and teeth decaying that I will soon follow her as the earth reclaims our bodies.

We cannot undo what has been done. There was a time when listening to warnings about our planet’s destruction, if taken seriously, could have prevented what was happening. Not now, it’s gone on too far. Perhaps if we fought harder to stop the Amazon being cut down. Perhaps if we listened to the warnings of climate change. Perhaps if we had all done our part it may have prevented the decimation of our Earth.

The Earth will remain long after humans have perished. The ways in which we defiled our lands and oceans only led to our own downfall. We were more concerned about advancing ourselves and technology we forgot to thank and care for the terrain that provided us with the opportunity. We should have thanked the world by growing more trees, not cutting them down. We should have cared for the animals better, instead of finding more on the endangered lists each year. We should have stopped to think about what every piece of plastic did to our oceans. We should have cared for the earth like it has always cared for us.

We did nothing to deserve or serve this planet.

Whoever or whatever is lucky enough to inhabit the world next, I can only hope they look after it better than humans did.

The Excitement of a Book Release

[image error]For the past few weeks, I have enjoyed uploading some short and flash fiction. However, this was all in preparation for the releasing of The Keepers of Verdorso: A Finding of Kin!

It is now available in eBook on Amazon!

Today there is a special offer, the eBook completely free!

I hope people enjoy reading as much as I enjoyed writing

Link below;

 

Dancing Through a Dream

Every night I see her dancing in a purple mist. Her hair moves as she twists and turns through the musical dust.

That’s how my dream starts.

The music stops, the mist fades, and she is facing a man with short brown hair, only a little taller. She is smiling at him and that’s when I realise I’m watching him walk away. The tears fall, and he runs straight back to her. Holding each other, a black shadow lingers over them.

Then I wake up.

Every time I wake up it is always the same. I feel like I should know who these people are, and yet, no name comes to me. Strange for me, ever since I was a child after my dreams, I would see the people in newspapers, on the news or sometimes on the streets. I would know their names, their families and what was about to happen. I am no Clairvoyant, nor am I a psychic. Just someone who sees people in their dreams. Perhaps, if anything, just a little more connected to the universal conscience. Time is only an illusion.

With the years that had passed nothing had baffled me more than this couple. They did not fit the normal pattern of dreams. In the eight weeks since this dream began, that was all it was. Just one dream. Nothing else had come to fruition. No clear faces, nothing. The same dream repeated over and over, leaving no room for anything else. Normally, within eight weeks, I would have seen an entire lifetime unfold before my eyes. I knew their emotions, their pain, the struggles, but also their happiness, their plans, and joy.

I would see what would be complete strangers walking past me, oblivious to the fact that I was aware of their husband’s infidelity or perhaps they were on their way to care for a sick family member. Nothing shocked me any more of what a human could do to hurt another. However, I also knew the extent of human compassion.

The snippet I was shown repeatedly did not bend to either distrust or a great deal of tenderness. I would have thought after seeing the same scene, for now, the fifty-eighth time some conclusion would be summoned.

Still, nothing came to light. No idea who the dancing couple could be.