Skye Ritchey's Blog, page 33

Sunday Snippet: The Prank Police

I'm welcoming September with open arms. August ended up being a truly weird month. We'll see if September flows any smoother.
Decent week of television. I stuck with classic and mysteries. I finished up a 77 Sunset Strip binge watch last week and launched into Peter Gunn, logging about seven more episodes via Prime and now a marathon on regular cable.
I caught the Classic Who episodes of The Enemy of the World. Interesting segue… an episode of The Saint featured the actor who plays Two. It's just a weird little connection that made me smile.
I also watched another Midsomer Murders episode. Oddly, they're back to Causton CID again instead of Midsomer Constabulary. Obviously, it's not a huge deal, just one of those random things that popped out at me.
Yes, I'm strange.
Tonight's post is from The Prank Police, a novella that started with a writing community prompt.
Here's the mini-blurb:
The mage academy is rife with pranksters and Zenna Doyle and Kyrk Rydercroft must corral the new recruits when they all test their newfound powers. And to top it off, the couple pulls duty at the worst time—the night of the blue moon when magic is at its strongest.
And a preview snippet…
Zenna Doyle placed her hands on the desk in front of her. "You have gotto be kidding. What did we do to piss you off?" She stared the director of the mage academy down.A slow, wide smile spread across Max Bentis's face. "Remember the saying about payback?" He quirked an eyebrow.Kyrk Rydercroft, Zenna's partner in teaching and everything else, stopped pacing for a moment. "That it's a right bitch?"Zenna snorted. Too damned true.Max nodded. "That's the one." He pulled a thick folder from his bottom drawer. "Do you also remember, oh… seven or eight years ago when I was in the position you two are in now?" He made a show of casually opening the file and flipping through the pages.Zenna shot Kyrk a sideways glance. He shook his head. No way were they going to admit remembering anything they did back in their adept minor days.Zenna didn't like the direction this conversation headed in.Max smirked. "And do you remember the week before finals and who the ringleaders were for the most hated time of the year?" He tapped the pages in front of him.Kyrk muttered an oath. "Seriously? I barely remember what I had for breakfast this morning."Of course, Max had no problem reminding them of their former shortcomings. He spun the folder around, showing the proof in vividly colored notes. Then he turned to the final page where Zenna and Kyrk, in their less than infinite wisdom, signed a promissory pledge to handle finals week whenever the presiding precept chose.Max settled back in his seat. "Ring any bells now?" He gaze dared either of them to try his patience.Zenna's shoulders slumped. "Fuck."Max clapped and rubbed his palms together. "Exactly." He slapped the folder shut and stuffed in back inside the drawer.Kyrk started pacing again. "You do realize we're due for a blue moon." He stopped. "They're going to be insane with power."Zenna shuddered. Great Mage. The entire week would suck huge, hairy balls.Max's lips split in a wide smile. "I absolutely know all of the above. Why do you think I saved that little trump card in the back of the file?" He pushed away from the desk and stood up. "I've been waiting for this moment for two years."Zenna gave him props. "That's brilliantly evil. Kudos for being able to hold out this long." Honestly, she admired the hell out of the sneak attack.Max preened for a moment.Kyrk snorted. "Geez, Zen, don't stroke his ego. He'll be lucky if we're still standing next Monday."A fair point.Max shook his head. "Hey, there are two of you. The same cannot be said when you two coordinated hell week during your last year." He pinned Kyrk with his gaze. "I had to find something worthy to challenge your skill-set."Zenna shrugged. "Fine, fine. We'll manage. At least you'll be around if anything goes totally hinky."Max held up a hand. "Oh, no. I'm going to be as far away from this place as possible starting in"—he glanced at his watch—"about ten seconds." Jerking his head toward the door, he waved them in that direction. "Have fun."Zenna opened her mouth to argue, but Kyrk grabbed her wrist. "Don't. As much as it pains me to say it, we had this coming." He tugged her out of Max's office. "And we don't have much time to prepare… so let's get going."Zenna exhaled on a heavy sigh. "Let the games begin."
This story is so much fun. It took a direction I completely didn't anticipate but I'm happy with where it's headed.


That's it for this week.
Cheers!
Skye

Sunday Snippet: Place of Honor

It's so weird to be in the last week of the month. Sometimes it felt like August would never end and other times like it flew right by. I'm actually looking forward to September.
Busy week with work projects but I did get some shows watched. I started a new episode of Blue Heelers and so far enjoy the second season.
Caught several episodes of Peter Gunn. There's a marathon next weekend I'll probably end up watching also.
Watched the Tomb of the Cybermen episodes of Classic Who. I'm bummed there aren't a lot of the second doctor's episodes available for viewing.
Also caught another Midsomer Murders episode. I like the new guy. I also need to figure out when they started working for Midsomer Constabulary instead of Causton CID. Probably way back in a previous season and I just missed it.
I'm in the middle of a 77 Sunset Strip marathon. This is one of my favorite classic shows.
That's it for television this week. Tonight's post is from Place of Honor, a novella that got a start with a writing community prompt.
Here's the mini-blurb:
A band of bounty hunters go after urban legends, bagging, tagging, and removing the threat from cities, towns, villages, and sprawling rural landscapes. Wiley Star has a score to settle and Hex Harrigan can't deny her quest for vengeance—but when Wiley lands on the wrong end of a double cross, it's up to Hex to track her whereabouts and save the day, which proves difficult because his personal feelings keep getting in the way.
And a preview snippet… (CONTENT WARNING for questionable consent; main character is mesmerized while having sex)
Hex entered the lower level and almost lost his shit. He'd been warned. He expected to witness depravity at its worst.But seeing Wiley on top of a Darkwing—wearing nothing but leather chaps—with her hips rocking and rolling over his torso while she sucked off another member made his blood boil hotter than an inferno. "What the fuck is she doing?" The woman he'd let go would never allow anyone to use her like this.Not even for vengeance.Hex fought the instinct to bring hellfire down on the Darkwings in attendance. First and foremost because they'd probably bend the flames to their will—chaos demons had the ability to wield the underworldly power in whatever manner they chose. Second but still important… he wanted to take the entire group out in one go. No stragglers. No escapees. Every damn one of the Darkwing cloister needed to cease existing."Too damned bad I don't have a fucking clue how to make that happen."He shoved his hands in his pockets, mainly to keep from pounding the closest demon into dust. No way could he tip his hand yet.The leader, an oily toad of a guy, openly leered while stroking his dick. "Mmm. She looks good spit-roasted like that. But I wanna see her go airtight." He jerked his head toward a hulking, tatted-up beast of a man. "Lawson. Drop trou and give her a big one." His mouth twisted in a nasty sneer.Lawson followed orders. He shucked his leathers and fisted his impressive dick.Hex swallowed bile. Why the hell didn't Wiley put up a struggle? She didn't pause in her actions at all.Mango called out. "Hey, sweet ass!"She pulled away from the thrusting shaft in her mouth, angling her head toward Mango.A telltale, eerie green hue glossed over her irises. Mesmerized. That explained her easy compliance.Mango licked his lips. "Spread your cheeks, princess, Lawson's gonna fill you up." His hand went to his crotch, cupping his cock and balls.Hex vowed the three men currently abusing Wiley would be the first he'd take out. Standing sentinel, he counted every cruel act inflicted and tallied how many swaths of skin he'd be carving off each man. In one week's time… he'd work his way to a place of honor.And hell would be paid.
This story took a darker turn from what I usually write and I'm not quite sure everything will stay in. That said, it became important to show what Hex and Wiley are dealing with.


That's it for this week.
Cheers!
Skye

Sunday Snippet: The Pit and the Pyre

Ugh! August is fast becoming the craziest month I've ever had. This past week I filled my gas tank up on Monday and by Wednesday, I only had half a tank left. For perspective… a full tank of gas usually lasts about two to three weeks for me. Does that say anything about the week I had? LOL
Seriously, though, a lot of back and forth travel several times a day did give me lots of windshield time. It also gave terrible drivers and a buttload of construction but that's a whole different rant for another day.
I did end up having a highly productive week workwise, which means I didn't have a lot of time for television. I did hear the news of Krypton's demise unless another network picks it up. Here's hoping that happens. I really do love the characters.
I've been rather disappointed that my once favorite network is no longer in the running for my viewing time. I either watch on demand via the app or not at all. It makes me sad that Syfy has fallen so far. I literally used to watch the channel almost exclusively way back in the day.
As much as I love the convenience of streaming shows, I miss having a wide variety of stuff to choose from during the day on regular cable television. I have been enjoying the local channels' digital offerings. MeTV, Decades, Comet, Charge, This TV, etc. has some great classic stuff. That's what I've been having on in the background. I'm also a big fan of Ovation right now.
I did get to watch a few more episodes of Peter Gunnthis week but that's about it.
Tonight's post is from The Pit and the Pyre, a novella that got a start with a writing community prompt.
Here's the mini-blurb:
Virgo Sohn walks through five years of hellfire to get back to Gunn Gladstone, but she finds him married to Glynne Allmore. Accepting the hand dealt, Virgo refuses to explain the circumstances of her return until Glynne succumbs to a raging virus and Gunn feels he should join her on the pyre.
And a preview snippet…
"Virgo! Wait!" Gunn Gladstone burst into the center of the maze, the source of hellfire in the realm.Virgo paused with her foot on the threshold of the pit. "I have to go, Gunn. You were there. The lone quorum member who voted to let me stay." The only person who didn't blame her for the Sohn family sins.He grasped her biceps. "Give it time. You can't really be held responsible for your misdeeds. You were acting under orders from your family." His palm cupped her face. "They're the ones to blame. And because they're not here, you're taking the brunt of anger from the revelations." His gaze held hers, trying to offer reassurance.Virgo didn't want any. Because she had followed orders. Without question or argument.Until she met Gunn and received an education with how mage politics were supposed to work.Shaking her head, she eased away from him. "I'll never be good or… clean… enough to stand by your side. Not unless I face the trials." She grabbed for his hand. "I have nothing to lose except you and the quorum vote made anything we might have had impossible." Her heart kicked hard against her ribs. "You know this."Gunn's lips twisted in a grimace. "I know there's no guarantee you'll survive the trials. At least with banishment, there's a chance we could have a future." He pulled away from her.She sighed. "Gunn, if I don't survive, there's a reason. And I'm doing this whether you accept it or not. At least this way you won't be tainted by your association with me and you'll stay on track to take over as quorum leader. They'll never let you ascend if you're still tied up with me." He shouldn't need her to state the facts…Gunn's face hardened. "Then don't expect me to be around if you survive. If you can't trust me enough to work things out for you, we're already over." He stepped back and out of her way.Virgo spun around, unwilling to let Gunn see the tears gathering in her eyes. "We already were before we met." She trusted him… she did not trust herself.She took a step forward, the flames licking at her ankles.She glanced over her shoulder to see Gunn's retreating figure.Someday, I'll be worthy of you and I'll walk through hellfire to prove it.Closing her eyes, she dropped down into the burning fire.
I have a lot of love for this story. Virgo and Gunn are on a wild journey and I'm having so much fun writing their tale.


That's it for this week.
Cheers!
Skye

Sunday Snippet: Picture Perfect

August is shaping up to be the busiest month I've had in a long time. Between running around with my daughter and new projects landing in my inbox, I need about five more hours in each day.
Very limited television viewing this week. I ended up not starting the playlist listen while working. Too many interruptions.
I did watch a marathon of Aurora Teagarden Mysteries. Also caught some Peter Gunn episodes.
Other than that, the manuscript evaluations I've been working on took precedence. It's easier to review and assess when it's quiet and I don't have something else trying to pull my attention away from the material.
On a very happy note, I finished up a manuscript I've been writing for a long, long time. It's the follow up to Shyler: Finding Home, a Furlough 99 novella. The story ended up being more involved than I thought it would be and it turned out so much better than I'd hoped. Look for it soon!
That's pretty much it for television this week. I really want to get back to Krypton and finish up Riverdaleand Arrow. Hopefully this week.
Tonight's post is from Picture Perfect, a novella that started with a writing community prompt.
Here's the mini-blurb:
Faeryn Carnes, a fire elemental, crossed through the Shroud, leaving the mortal plane. But when she returned, an unheard of occurrence, Seth Jacobson, an air elemental, is the only person she can count on, which seems impossible because Faeryn believes air and fire can't mix.
And a preview snippet…
A singular, incessant thought brought Faeryn to Seth's doorstep. Seek solace. She'd be happy as goddamned lark if she could find some form of comfort away from the constant buzzing in her mind.When Seth opened the door, her world righted itself. The gray haze surrounding her return turned bright with a rainbow of color. But she didn't understand why.Seth gave her a questioning smile. "You doing okay?" He stepped back, inviting her inside.She crossed the threshold and another piece of her jigsaw self fell into place. "Honestly? Not sure what I'm doing right now." Her gaze scanned the familiar interior of Seth's home.Nothing changed. Neat, tidy, welcoming. Warm and inviting. Like the man.For the most part.She asked the question burning her brain. "Why aren't you freaking out? Everyone, and I mean everyone, is up in arms. I'm either cursed or a demon spawn dressed up in Faeryn's skin." She shook her head. "Those were the nicest things anyone said." The rest… didn't bear discussion.Seth's lips kicked into a wry twist. "I hate to break it to you, Faeryn, but people said that about you before you…" His voice trailed off for a moment. "Uh… left." He nodded toward the sofa. "Wanna just chill and relax or did you have a specific reason for stopping by?"Faeryn made her way to the couch. "Don't think I didn't catch how you didn't answer the question." Should she let it slide or dig deeper?The internal voice chanted its mantra… seek solace.What the hell else would she be doing at Seth's?By rights, he should hate her. She trashed their relationship, their friendship, and practically anything else that held them together.Seth took a seat in the chair next to the sofa. "The short version is I'm not freaking out because I don't care." He crossed an ankle over his knee.Her heart dropped into her stomach. The sting of his words cutting deeper than she wanted to admit.He shook his head. "That didn't come out right. What I mean is I don't care how or why you're back. I'm happy you're here." His voice held the warm quality she'd come to crave.She snorted softly. "I think you're the only one. Which serves me right. I get that." Settling back into the plush cushions, she tucked her legs under her. "Hell, I'm not the same person. I'm different, but I can't quite pinpoint the how or why." She huffed out a sigh. "It's beyond frustrating. Like I'm on borrowed time but I don't know what the expiration date is." Leaning her head back, she stared at the ceiling.Seth straightened and put his forearms on his knees. "Maybe we can figure it out. I pulled out some of the ancient texts. There has to be something in those that will point us to what's going on with you."Faeryn dropped her chin to meet his gaze. "You're willing to help me?" She didn't deserve him. She really didn't.Seth's lips curved. "Like I said. I'm happy you're back… for however long you're here."And didn't that nail the big scary thing hovering in the back of her mind.If she had a purpose… what would happen once she discovered it?
This story has some twists and turns I didn't quite expect. Sometimes the sages like to throw things in and keep me on my toes.


That's it for this week.
Cheers!
Skye

Sunday Snippet: Physical Therapy

Whew. Long, long week with a ton of busywork stuff along with my regular workload. I sometimes get the idea that most of my family members don't realize how long or how many phone calls it often takes to make things happen. Luckily, I'm in a position where my job isn't at stake if I need to make those frequent and often time-sucking phone calls. But… bleh.
Had an even more sporadic viewing week. I'm not fairly behind on a lot of my shows. But… I did catch up on some laundry so not a bad tradeoff. I got two episodes of Blue Heelers in while folding and stacking clothes. LOL
I got a little more of Riverdale watched but haven't finished the episode yet. I might be getting to the place where I need to switch over to music. The main reason I've been light on viewing for the past few weeks is a heavy work schedule and lots of distractions from other drama.
I have so many playlists that I listen to while driving. I should probably start listening to them while working also. Maybe I'll start that this week.
Since there's not much to report, tonight's post is from Physical Therapy, a novella that got a start with a writing community prompt.
Here's the mini-blurb:
Flint Hollywell, a talented physical therapist, loves nothing more than watching arena ball player Tappen Bligh work her magic on the playing field. But when a career-ending injury sidelines Tappen, Flint is determined to get her back on the grass where she thrives on the action.
And a preview snippet…
Flint Hollywell jumped up from his reserved seat and bellowed with the crowd before sitting back down. "Third row, midcenter. One of the best seats in the house." He'd worked his ass off to afford season tickets and never missed a match.The Banshees were the most amazing team to watch. And Flint didn't care what kind of hit his reputation took for being a full-on fan. He wore his jersey with pride and never left home without his green and white cords, the Banshee team colors.Tonight's game had a brutal edge underneath the stellar quality of the plays. Elbows flew and cracked against chins, shoulders, and torsos. Hip-checks and knee gouges doubled when the Banshees played the Demon Dogs. The beauty of watching the peak physicality of the players in action never failed to hold him rapt.Even when the professional side of him winced at the damage the teams inflicted on each other.Then again, his work in physical therapy and athletic training gave him a close-up view of what happened when bodies were pushed past their limit.Helping those injuries heal became a bonus.His friend Mason nudged Flint. "Tannen's on fire tonight. And the Dogs are sniffing for blood." His gaze never left the field.Flint nodded. "Gilda's kicking their rivalry into the stratosphere. I can't believe the officials haven't called her on some of those questionable blocks."Mason laughed. "Probably because the Banshees have only missed once when old Gildabitch plays dirty."A valid point. Tannen's score hadn't cracked double digits yet, a rarity for her. But her assists were off the charts for this game. One of the things he loved about the Banshees? Their teamwork approach to winning. Tannen Bligh led by example and shared the spotlight with her fellow players.Flint leaned forward, shaking his head when another block cut close to the penalty range. "Come on, ref! Make the call." Disgusted, he shoulder-checked Mason. "Gilda's earning her nickname tonight. I can't believe how blatant she's being with the use of magick." Only physical magick—primarily levitation—could be used during match play.Spells, incantations, conjuring… all counted as illegal and weren't allowed. Gilda all but spoke words out loud while adding an edge to her elbow throwing and hip-checking.Mason's eyes went wide and he fist-pumped the air. "Tannen's setting up to score. She's getting in place for her kick-ass combo."Flint didn't respond. He didn't want to miss a moment of watching Tannen Bligh defy gravity with her incredible acrobatic combination.
Writing action scenes is something I thoroughly enjoy. Creating the rules for arena ball has been a fun experience.


That's it for this week.
Cheers!
Skye

Sunday Snippet: Passion's Gate

July kind of flew by in a series of weird weather and crazy work schedules. I'm oddly okay with that. The weather is what it is… and will probably keep acting like an angry toddler. My work calendar is bursting at the seams and I'm excited about my new projects.
But… my television viewing is sporadic, which isn't a bad thing. I'm just so used to doing rundowns each week I feel like my blog is naked if I don't have a full slate. LOL
I did get a few shows watched. I started with Midsomer Murders and got a holiday episode. There's a new detective sergeant or maybe it's detective constable, but either way, I'll miss Jones. I loved that character. Which isn't to say the new guy won't grow on me. He's not bad. Good mystery also.
Started a new episode of Blue Heelers and it's rather different and I like it. I'm not sure how long the first season is, but the series is something like fourteen seasons and it's nice to have variety in format.
Caught two more episodes of Peter Gunn and Classic Who. I'm kind of excited to watch a live-action episode with Two. So far, it's been six animated episodes.
Finished the final episode of Blade. I have to admit to still being disappointed with the outcome on my rewatch. Sometimes I can have a change of heart when I've got a few years of distance when viewing a show's run.
Frankie Drake Mysteries had a great episode. I'm starting to like Grayson a little more and it'll be fun to see if Frankie's mom sticks around.
Watched the fifth episode of Daredevil and, eh, this is something of a slow-moving season. I do like where things are going and it's great to see Karen kind of have to face what she did in a previous season. That said, I'm enough of a Fisk non-fan to really not want to watch a bunch of scenes with him. And the FBI agent annoys the crap out of me. I actually think he's too smart to be playing things so stupidly. So, yeah, I hope the rest of the season evens out.
Started Riverdale's Bizarrodale episode and hope to finish it later today. This season has been dark and twisty and I like it.
New episodes of Killjoys have started and I'll be hopelessly behind on those, but I can't wait to watch this final season.
That's pretty much it for television this week. Tonight's post is from Passion's Gate, a follow up featuring the characters from Kindred Spirits.
Here's the mini-blurb:
Kirby Selwig meets Passion Gates and she rocks his world. She's a force to be reckoned with and a little out of control. Kirby is tasked with tempering her wild spirit—something she has no interest in taming. Too bad she doesn't know Kirby never fails to get results.
And a preview snippet…
Passion Gates had zero fucks to give about being welcome at Atherton's University of Magick and Alchemy.Her gaze swept over the faces of everyone in the council room, lingering on one man in particular, before swinging back to the specimen of golden awesomeness standing before her.Too bad she'd never have a piece of him. Not if he marched lockstep to the tune of Atherton's board. Something she'd never do.She planted her hands on her hips. "I don't have all night. Someone needs to tell me why I've been summoned to your exalted presences." As if she couldn't guess.Elixir. With the special little twist she'd added.The blond stud took control of the conversation. "Well, Passion, here's the deal. We're here to meet with the board to discuss illegal tampering with a favorite alcohol in three different bars." His eyebrow quirked. "Would you like to shed some light on the situation?" His gaze challenged her to deny his supposition.Good thing she had no plan to do so. "Well… Kirby, was it? I can shed whatever you want on the situation down to the exact incantation used to add the strong sexual component to the brew." She paused and glanced toward the board. "Unless you think it might be too much for the old hard-asses to understand." Pinning the man in the center with her gaze, she smirked.Dean Hargrove rose to his less than impressive height. "That's enough, Ms. Gates. We perfectly understand the how. You'll be returning in one week's time to present the reason why and we'll determine whether you'll be facing criminal charges to be transferred to the magistrate." His voice wobbled on the last part.Good. He should have reservations. And he also shouldn't expect her to fall in line.Passion snorted. "You're wrong. I'm not one of your students; you have no jurisdiction over someone not enrolled in your precious university." She turned and started for the door but glanced back. "And I'm just getting started. You'd do well to stay out of my way, Uncle Dean." The collective gasps and chorus of shocked responses filled her with a sad sense of victory.When she dropped a bomb, she aimed for the biggest and best impact.
I love, love, love this story. I'm having so much fun with the first novella and Passion kind of walked in and parked her bold badass self in my brain and the sages started whispering. I won't be complaining about that at all.


That's it for this week.
Cheers!
Skye

Sunday Snippet: Order of Aggression

July 21, 2019
Man… the heat has been horrible this week. I hope everyone has a cool spot and is dealing with the high temperatures safely. Ugh… it's miserable. Watching the Irish Open, I truly wanted to be there. I mean they were wearing sweaters and jackets. I could go for that right now. And, yeah, everyone needs to remind me when I'm griping about how cold it is in May next year to shut up and deal. LOL
Slow week for television viewing. I had a full slate of work and needed to focus so I didn't get as many shows watched.
I did catch another episode of Daredevil. I missed watching one last week. Not a bad episode but too much Fisk for my liking.
Krypton had a great episode. I'm in deep and want to know what happens next. I'm honestly not sure if I care whether Lyta is redeemed or not but I do want to see her reaction to the reprogramming.
Watched another episode of Painkiller Jane and the pieces started to fall into place. Only about three or four more episodes left of this show.
Last but not least, I caught another episode of Durham County. Man, Michelle Forbes can really play the barely hanging on by a thread character better than a lot of actors. She's scary good at those roles.
That's pretty much it for this week. Tonight's post is from Order of Aggression, a novella that started with a writing community prompt.
Here's the mini-blurb:
When Ames Braddock is ordered to take out an enemy outpost with possible civilian casualties, he calls on Parker Hart to be his second, but Parker balks at the idea. Ames isn't thrilled with the mission, but he needs Parker and he's not above using aggression to bring her in line, which gets the job done, but also backfires when she demands satisfaction.
And a preview snippet…
Ames pored over the blueprints for the neighboring buildings on either side of Fifth Street Saloon. "I need Parker's input. She's got the insider knowledge." And hated to use it.Too damned bad.Delving deep into her childhood never sat well with Parker, but her experience planning interference for her parents when they ran the black mage meant she could pinpoint the potential places for the traps they'd face. Even with the decade plus she'd switched sides, Parker almost always called the opposition's movements. The fact her parents no longer held a role in the guild's makeup didn't mean the new leadership changed the playbook overmuch.Parker breezed into the rec room. "You wanted to see me?" She glanced at the blueprints and shook her head. "No. Dammit, Ames. I don't want to go back to that dark place again. You know how much I hate frolicking in my old life." Her eyes closed and her face twisted in a grimace.He got up and scooted around the table, grasping her shoulders. "You're right. I do." He guided her to a chair and gently nudged her down. "But you're worried about collateral damage—" A sharp look from her had him amending his statement. "We're worried about civilian losses. One way to minimize them is to make sure we don't trip any explosive traps or knock anything loose that's dangerous to humans." He settled back down in his seat. "If you can help me figure out a way through each building, we can keep the element of surprise and hopefully get any edgy normals out of the way before we take out this saloon." He waited until she met his gaze. "Please, Parker. I'm trying to make everyone happy here."She heaved a sigh. "You know something? If I'd known the levels I'd have to sink to pay you back for saving me, I might have stuck with the guild." Her lips thinned and she held his gaze. "I wouldn't be alive right now, but sometimes I wonder if that would be a better fate than this." She pointed to the blueprints.A metaphorical kick to the balls had the same impact as the real thing. Ames hated it when Parker fell back on gratitude for a decades-old deed then twisted the knife by claiming she'd have been better off if he'd left her to the guild after they killed her parents. His fifteen-year-old self had taken one look at the shivering, cowering girl and his purpose in life became clear—saving her by offering her life on the other side.They'd pretty much been in each other's pockets since then.Which meant each could push the other's buttons without blinking. And Parker punched the saltiest one she could when she invoked the whole "you saved me and now I have to do your bidding even though I hate it" thing. Just once, she could maybe do the right thing because it mattered, civilian losses or not.Ames bit back a heated retort and focused on the positive. "Not having you around would make my life boring so I, for one, am glad I found you." Admitting how much he depended on her came easily, owning what not having her close meant not so much.Parker snorted. "Yeah, yeah. Ply me with pretty words so I buckle under and get to work. I know how you operate." Her lips twitched into a grin. "And I fall for it every damn time." She shuffled the pages on the table. "Give me thirty minutes to review these then we'll go do some recon." She pulled the prints closer and bent her head to study them.Ames propped his feet on a free chair and settled in to wait. He had a solid idea of how he wanted to run the operation… unless Parker found something that could literally blow up in their faces.Good thing she's on our side now.
This story is coming along nicely. I love the dynamic between Ames and Parker and dredging up ancient history is one of my favorite things to do.


That's it for this week.
Cheers!
Skye

Sunday Snippet: Order in the Court

Whew. What a week. The weather has been all over the map with storms moving through my state. In our small town, a tree fell on a house in the back end of town, where I happen to live, and we lost power for a few hours. Honestly, not bad all things considered.
A so-so week in television viewing. I got a few more episodes of Blue Heelers in and still really enjoy this Aussie drama.
Also caught Midsomer Murders and quite enjoyed the episode centered on a school's history.
Watched two episodes each of Peter Gunn and Classic Who. I've started the second doctor's arc with the animated Dalek episodes.
Caught another episode of In the Dark and enjoyed it. I'm actually quite thrilled with where the show is right now.
Watched an episode of Frankie Drake Mysteries and liked how the show played out.
Riverdale never fails to go in directions that blow my mind. Watching Archie implode is painful but also riveting. I'm also enjoying Betty's conversations with her dad. I'm still wondering when Alice will get her brain back.
The Lost Canary episode of Arrow proved very entertaining. I'm so, so, so going to miss this show when it's gone.
Caught another episode of Classic Roswell. The introduction of Tess still underwhelms me.
Caught a holiday-themed movie on Pluto TV and enjoyed it. It was hot and sticky outside and viewing a Christmas movie definitely cooled things down a little.
That's pretty much it for television this week. Tonight's post is from Order in the Court, a sexy short that started with a writing community prompt.
Here's the mini-blurb:
Mace Ormondson, a fae prince, presides over the daily court grievances and disputes. When a new advocate, Nessa Goff, is appointed it turns Mace's world upside down and sideways, because Nessa happens to be the bane of his existence and a huge pain in his ass.
And a preview snippet…
Nessa set the scene for her evening.Wearing one of her stage costumes, she laid out dinner then waited for her guest to arrive. "We should have an interesting night." She lit candles and glanced at the clock.The door opened with a magical twist of the lock. Right on time. He never failed to be punctual.Nessa took her place between the table and the entry, a sure clue of how the night would proceed. Her dinner partner entered, stopping a moment to drink in the sight of her in the sheer, filmy confection she usually reserved for her show. Constructed of frothy gauze, the nearly translucent getup left nothing to the imagination.He let out a low whistle of appreciated. "Damn. My appetite just increased." His gaze raked over her from head to toe.Her nipples stood proudly on display, the silky fabric keeping them taut with arousal. The frilly, tiered ruffles of the outfit ended just short of her thighs, giving tantalizing glimpses of her bare mound and rounded ass whenever she moved. A sharp intake of breath and a spike of lust in her companion's gaze put the finishing touch on her preparations.She glided toward him, giving him a moment to mentally close, lock, and secure the door. Stopping an arm's length away, she dropped her gaze to his crotch, her mouth salivating over the outline of the large bulge hidden behind the dark fabric. Her pulse rate surged with anticipation.She met his heated stare. "Hello, Mace." Her tongue flicked out to wet her lower lip. "I'm in the mood for dessert first." Turning with a sexy twist, she gave him a brief glimpse of her ass. "Any objections?"His arms shot out, catching her shoulders before his palms ghosted down to settle on her breasts. His thumbs worked over her nipples and he stepped forward, bringing his hard length against her. She snaked her hand between them, cupping the hard flesh.Dipping his head, his lips hovered over hers. "Not a one, Nessa. Who gets the first taste?" His mouth clamped onto hers and his tongue swept inside.Nessa groaned and came up for air. "Doesn't matter who as long as we're both sated afterward." Her hands loosened his belt buckle.Mace gave her a wolfish grin, reminiscent of their first meeting when he'd assumed lupine form. He snapped his fingers and her costume shimmered and shook, working its way up and over her head. His hands spanned her waist and he lifted her off her feet.His lips curved with a sexy twist. "Then I'll claim the first sample." He lowered her to the plush carpet and spread her legs.Nessa's breath caught in her throat, anticipation making the blood thrum in her veins. When Mace leaned down, hooking her knees over his shoulders, she arched her hips off the floor. Her instincts kicked in and she absorbed the lust rolling off him.She chuckled. "Looks like the prize goes to me." Her fingers plunged into his hair, drawing him closer. "I'll make that up to you… I promise."Mace glanced up. "I'll hold you to that." His head dipped and his tongue dragged over her clit.A gasp exited her and her hands thudded against the carpet and she curled her fingers into her palms.Mace's wicked mouth wouldn't take long to work an orgasm out of her.She relished attaining the release.
I love this story so much. Mace and Nessa are a fun couple to write and their brief journey in this tale is tempting me to write more for them.


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: Only When They Blink

June kind of flew by in a rainy, chilly, dreary kind of way. I'm kind of looking forward to July. Not the heat so much, because it did finally get hot, but mainly in a new month clean slate deal.
Not a bad week for television. I'm staying somewhat caught up on everything. Started out with an episode of In the Dark and I'm happy Murphy and Dean are on speaking terms again. I also love how much Max messes up with her.
Watched another episode of Classic Roswell and enjoyed it a lot. I'd forgotten Michael became an emancipated minor in the first season. For some reason, I thought that happened later.
Caught Frankie Drake Mysteries and loved this one. I thoroughly enjoy seeing historical characters woven into the storyline. I also still want the detective and Mary to hookup but have a feeling Frankie is in his sights. Bummer.
Man… Riverdale truly embraces the batshit crazy. And I love it. I still want Hiram to go down hard. And Alice… oh, Alice. What the hell happened to you? I guess I better keep watching to find out.
Watched an episode of Arrow and it's one I've been looking forward to. I enjoy the future flashes almost as much as I loved the flashbacks. How awesome is having Nyssa train Mia? Seriously.
Caught the next episode of Krypton and didn't really see Brainiac possessing Seb coming. A cool twist though. I'm also quite enjoying having the multiple storylines unfold. So glad to see Lyta's mom back on the screen.
Painkiller Jane had a solid episode even for a clip show. Series television doesn't do those much anymore, which isn't a bad thing, but when they're done well, it's fun to watch.
Watched another episode of Durham County, the first season finale, and wow. Kudos to the actor who portrays Ray Prager, Sr. Watching him unravel was seriously compelling. I'm so curious about the actual… original… serial killer though. Maybe that line will be picked up again?
Started a new episode of Blue Heelers and I'm still enjoying this one.
Also watched the next episode of Midsomer Murders, which ended up being terrific. The mix of themes with Romeo and Juliet and Sleeping Beauty worked out better than expected.
Got two more episodes of Peter Gunn in and also two more of Classic Who. Not a bad way to round out the week.
And that's it for television this week. Tonight's post is from Only When They Blink, a novella that started with a writing community prompt to put a new twist on a fairy tale story.
Here's the mini-blurb:
Hale Easterson has fae blood running in his veins, but he won't follow the family old school traditions and mate by the designated age. He escapes to his private lake house to find an unconscious Winter Sorn, a beautiful woman, sprawled on his doorstep and realizes he may not be able to avoid what destiny has in store.
And a preview snippet…
Hale Easterson stood at the huge windows overlooking the gardens at the rear of the estate house. He didn't turn when the double arched doors opened and soft footfalls whished along the carpet. He continued facing the crystal clear glass with his arms behind his back.His father stopped halfway into the room. "Why aren't you dressed? The cocktail hour starts in fifteen minutes."Hale waited a heartbeat before answering. "I'm not staying tonight, Dad." He'd had more than enough of the hints, the females being parading in and out of the house, and the never-ending must-find-a-mate discussions.Henrick Easterson reacted accordingly. "Tradition demands you settle on a female and start the next generation of the family. No Easterson waits until they're over thirty. You're not going to be the first." He made his way to Hale's spot by the windows, anger seething under the surface of his demeanor.Hale rolled his eyes. "First of all, settle on a female is beyond insulting—to me and the potential woman I'd be spending the rest of my life with." He turned, facing his dad. "Second, the concept is barbaric and antiquated. Old school traditions aren't necessary anymore and I won't feed into the idea that a man has to be tied down to a singular future before he reaches his third decade." He glanced down at this jeans and battered boots, each well-worn and comfortable, fitting like a second skin. "I'm done with the whole thing. The invasion of my privacy, the wrecking of my solitude." He met his dad's gaze. "All of it." Including the stupid cocktail hours three nights a week.Henrick's mouth thinned to a slash across his face. "You're being rash and untenable." He turned and strode to his desk.Hale snorted. "No, I'm being me, Dad. I'm not a chip off the old block. I don't care how old the fae blood is in our lineage. I'll get mated on my own terms, thanks." And to someone of his choosing… not whomever his father found suitable.His dad's head snapped up and an angry grunt escaped. "Bah! Your own terms. You don't know enough about yourself to dictate terms, Hale." He whipped a drawer open and pulled out three files. "Since you won't be participating in actively seeking a mate, I've taken the liberty of culling the prospects down to this trio." He tapped the top folder. "You can choose all three, but only one will carry the Easterson name and bear your children." Glancing up, he met Hale's gaze squarely.Hale made a garbled choking sound. "I. Am. Not. You." He charged forward, sweeping the files off the desk. "I'm not marrying anyone you pick or parade in front of me. And I'm definitely not setting up for multiple mistresses… unlike you." Planting his hands on his hips, Hale all but dared his dad to keep the conversation going.Henrick's shoulders slumped. "There's a lot you don't know, son. And you aren't interested in listening, but you need to. You can't outrun fate, Hale." He straightened and met Hale's gaze.Hale shook his head. "I'm not running, Dad. I'm calmly walking away. Whatever fate has in store for me can find me at the lake house… where it's quiet and not filled with people I have nothing in common with." He made his way to the large French doors, placing his hand on the knob. "Do not send anyone over. I don't need a servant or a caretaker and I don't want your loyal minions snooping around in the one place I call a sanctuary. It doesn't belong to you and never will." He opened the door and stepped outside.Henrick didn't follow but his words did. "No matter where you hide, fate will still find you."Hale didn't break his stride. "Let it try."
This is a loosely based Princess and the Pea concept story. I love writing Hale and Winter and how neither wants to settle for fate ruling their destiny.


That's it for this week.
Cheers!
Skye