Catriana's Muse

.083 Attunements

2012-01-17T00:52:00.000-08:00

Attunements

The world of Meedia is home to magical energies that originate from the universe's Spiritual Realm. Spirits are born and held there, and the realm itself holds many layers. The Dakon'vael live in one of the layers of the Spiritual Realm and have since created a viable land for themselves. The Kass'na exist in a between state, for they still hold a good connection with the physical world.

Adult Briae Liunos with the water element. Art by Dahlia Gray

There are various theories as to how this happens, but the planet itself holds spiritual energy and can be coaxed into being manipulated for a unique user. Earth, wind, fire, water, these elements make up the planet and they all have their own voice. A connection between the element and the user must be established, and proper training allows the two to eventually communicate.

With that said, Attunement simply means an individual has successfully established a connection with an element. This typically happens to young children, who begin to complain of hearing voices. In my novel Destined, a young Qui'vali elf named Briae claims her voices sound like 'muddy water'. In cases like hers, the confusion she exhibits is due to her hearing two separate voices at the same time, or having two Attunements. Certain races can have more than one Attunement, elves are infamous for this ability.

Rori and Vari with the water element

So now an Attunement has been discovered; what's next? Typically, the young individual is then trained on how to communicate with their element. As stated earlier, each element has its own voice, and in order for the user to coax said element to warp and bend for them, they have to strengthen their bond through voice. There is no 'set' language for the elements, every individual with an Attunement must feel how to command and respond. The words come to them instinctively and are never the same for each person. Two users Attuned to wind may speak completely differently from each other, although studies have shown people who are spiritually aligned may sound similar when invoking.

Next week, I'll discuss Mergents, individuals who are so well Attuned they actually become part of their element.

082. Elves, Dragons, and Vampires, oh my!

2012-01-10T06:45:00.000-08:00

This week I go into a brief explanation of each race on Meedia. It's pretty lengthy, so I hope you enjoy.

Races of Meedia

Long ago, the planet boasted a good number of different races, more than what is currently seen today. War devastated the land and a few races were annihilated as a result. The remaining races live on, some forever changed by the gods themselves. Today, we'll touch briefly on these races.

Rorizin vil Wesser and Varicen vil Foclner, humans.

Humans are the youngest race by far, appearing on the Viai continent in wild, unclaimed territories ten thousand years ago. They have no magical abilities and are the shortest lived race; their life spans reaching 110-120 years maximum. Reproduction rates tend to be much higher because of this, a human can have large families, some even reaching an unprecedented double digit number of children. No other race can accomplish this feat.

In the last two hundred or so years, humans have jumped exponentially, having developed steam powered technology. Electricity, cars, airships, and trains have swept through the lands, communications have become instantaneous with the invention of the telephone and telegraph.

Their government is based on a hierarchy system. There are thirteen kingdoms under imperial rule. Nobility typically run law enforcement over their lands as they see fit, but run everything from estates in the kingdom they are aligned with. This makes having large families important, as the heir will run everything from the capital, while siblings or other family members will deal with any matters over the lands themselves.

Their relationship with the other races is strained at best. While humans owe much of their initial development to the Qui'vali elves, during the Qui'vali/Ka'naar wars the humans remained a neutral party. They outright hate Kass'na, calling them 'demons', and believe Dakon'vael to be nothing more than a fairy tale myth. While humans are on shaky terms with vampires, they do allow the Mixed to do trade and live on the outskirts of their lands.

You can find more information about the humans in this entry.

Liari Varian, a Vampire.

Vampires are a cursed race for a transgression not even the oldest history books have records of. The sun makes them lethargic to the point of uselessness and only blood nourishes their bodies. To this end, the vampires live in their own enchanted territories, a spell known as the Evernight cast over them. The Evernight allows them to traverse freely without ever having to worry about the daylight hours, and their Black Forests surround their perimeter, preventing any would-be invaders from reaching them.

Before the Kass'na/Vampire war, there existed many pureblood vampire clans, now only six remain. Their core culture revolves around 'the strong thrive and the weak die'. Vampires run their holds with subterfuge and back-door politics. There is a bloodline system in place which typically goes unchallenged. Clans usually fought long battles for who would be the top ranking, but the war abolished this drive, as it also made them an endangered species.

Along with the war having killed many of their most powerful kin, vampire children are typically born with weak constitutions and numerous are known to die before they can reach three years of age. Many scholars have debated over whether or not the curse is involved, as it seems the major issue lies with vampire infants being unable to utilize blood for nourishment. Those who survive are given Guardians, older vampires who protect the child until they come of age at twenty years.

As a whole, Vampires avoid many of the other races, with the exception of the Mixed. They officially hold peace treaties with the Kass'na, but generally detest them.

The Mixed are a combination between the vampire and human races. A few centuries ago, vampires became enamored with humans and, seeking to perhaps deal with their population problem, tried mating with them. Humans saw vampires as an exotic species to emulate but ended up being little more than a novelty pet to the superior minded nocturnal creatures. Eventually, the two races fell out, one growing bored, the other disillusioned. The result ended with half vampire/half human hybrids. Mixed are usually inferior in power to a pureblood and their abilities and weaknesses may vary. Many are born without the sun lethargy, but their skin may be more sensitive to the sun's rays. Some may crave blood, others may need a mixture. The constant, however, is that the race is typically looked down upon by both sides. Humans tolerate the Mixed, allowing them to do trade and run minor businesses. Vampires treat them like second class citizens, beneath them in all things, but using them to gain access to human technology. There are clans among the Mixed, but they are not recognized or taken seriously by the vampire race.

Mixed also have dealings with Eastern Kass'na, but this is lesser known to both humans and vampires.

Verinel Liunos, Qui'vali elf.

Elves tend to be a varied race and are spread out throughout the world. There are several types of elves, each with their own culture, environment, appearance, and abilities. The major elven race focused on so far have been the Qui'vali, or High Elves. These elves have had the most dealings with the other races and are the most hospitable.

Most elves eventually utilize all Attunements, and are the only race who can. Their connection to the elements is evolved, but their power is not on the same level as a Kass'na or a Dakon'vael. There used to be a universal language for all the elven sub-races, but time and distance have led them to developing their own languages and dialects.

The Qui'vali have held the most dealings with the other races, specifically the humans, Kass'na and even on occasion the Dakon'vael. Others, like the Pratiin and Wild elves, have never even seen another race besides their own, or if they have, reacted violently.

Their average lifespan is up to eight centuries, a few centuries shy of a vampire's lifespan(if they're not killed before hand).

Dakon'vael are considered to be one of the oldest races, second only to the Kass'na. They are immortal in the sense that their bodies will not age and they are immune to most diseases. Most races call them 'dragons', which is mostly an acknowledgment to their second, bestial form. Their primary form is humanoid, and all Dakon'vael can be identified by their golden, reptilian-like eyes.

For reasons only known to few outsiders, Dakon'vael do not live in the physical plane. Their lands reside in the Spiritual Realm, and only one of their own can access these areas. Up until almost two centuries ago, Dakon'vael traversed the lands, pretending to be human nomadic tribes.

Being one of the oldest races, Dakon'vael are known to be collectors and traders. If it's old or valuable they will trade, and because these trades have been so lucrative for both sides, their kind are usually highly respected and sought after.

There is a king who rules over them all, and they obey him implicitly. The current king is known as Xene, and he is the one responsible for the withdrawal of all Dakon'vael from the physical realm. Because of this, the humans now believe the reclusive race to be little more than fantasies of myth and legend.

Dakon'vael eventually grow weary of immortality and will slumber for long periods of time, sometimes centuries. When that loses its appeal, they go into what is called the Eternal Slumber, where they shed their physical bodies and become a permanent part of the Spiritual Realm.

Rioran, Kass'na'vah of the West.

Kass'na are highly spiritually attuned creatures, like the Dakon'vael. Split into four regions of the world, Kass'na are ruled by a Kass'na'vah. Kass'na'vah's are true immortals, they absolutely cannot be killed under any circumstances, and their abilities are passed down to whoever they choose to succeed them.

Kass'na kingdoms exist half in the physical realm and half in a sort of individual sub-space that is distantly connected with the Spiritual Realm. They're an open and friendly race normally, although their dealings with humans and vampires have left them jaded. Although they usually can only specialize in one Attunement, their innate abilities and immortality give them an advantage over other races. Their skills and power are on par with the Dakon'vael. While not as reclusive as some of the other races, Kass'na lands are typically difficult to reach and many do not leave the safety of their kingdoms.

Due to an unfortunate scenario with the Eastern Kass'na and humans, they have now been branded as 'demons'. Most races now call them such, so they are used to the name, and will typically not become offended - although they clearly dislike the name. While they can change their appearance to look older, younger, or change their gender externally, they hold no illusionary abilities. One of the most unique features on a Kass'na are their irises; they're slitted and glow faintly red. Like the Dakon'vael, they can be identified by their eyes, if the slightly pointed ears don't signify enough of a difference.

The alliances they do hold they treasure, and Kass'na protect their allies ferociously. They see themselves as guardians to the physical realm and to any who wish for their aid.

081. An Introduction to My World

2012-01-03T19:42:00.000-08:00

Once a week, I'm going to attempt to post background information on The Arcanus Series. Mostly bits and pieces that is either only briefly mentioned in the books, or are simply notes of interest. For those new to my book series, the first novel Destined, is available in e-book and paperback format.

E-book | Paperback

For those who have read Destined and have an interest in knowing more about this fantasy world, I hope you will enjoy these installments. Today, we'll start with a general overview of the planet itself, known as Meedia.

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An Introduction to the World of Meedia

The world of Meedia. Yes, I drew this.

The planet Meedia boasts four continents although so far only two have been mentioned(book 2: Bound by Blood). To the East is the Viai continent, which is where the majority of the books take place. To the West is the Plati continent, and with it, the great Othlian desert. It is said the desert used to be as beautiful as the rest of the continent, but a war eons ago left it a barren wasteland.

Several races call Meedia home. Elves, vampires, humans, Mixed(vampire/human hybrids), Kass'na(incorrectly called 'demons'), and Dakon'vael(dragons). While Kass'na claim the four corners of the world, the humans and vampires remain strictly on the Viai continent. Certain species of elves are spread throughout, but those who reside outside of the Viai continent are known for their hostility. Some humans are beginning to venture to the Western continent in search of riches or to establish a new way of life, only to find themselves daunted by the harsh desert lands. There are rumors of humans living in the Northern and Southern continents, but there is no evidence to the claims.

The planet is the same size of our Earth with the same rotation. Most areas undergo four seasons akin to our spring, summer, fall, and winter. Each season is around 91 days, give or take the weather. Most wildlife is similar to that of Earth, with a mixture of unique creatures (ex: the massive hubrion mentioned in Destined) . Almost all the different races celebrate the new seasons with festivals.

Between the two continents is the Dividing Sea. Southwest is the Turbulent sea (the rest have yet to be mentioned). It is said those who brave the waters of the Turbulent sea never return.

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That is it for today. Next week, I hope to briefly discuss the races of Meedia, so please feel free to check back!

080. Bound by Blood Excerpt

2011-11-06T09:44:00.000-08:00

Just thought I'd share this little bit with folks. I think this answers the question about whether or not certain characters will return from Destined. X3

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As Liari stalked off, Naliel opened his eyes, but did not move "That was unnecessarily harsh, Sarna."

"Whatever," he sighed "They're slowing us down Nal, and you know it. Rioran drags his ass during the day, and although the girl is awake and ready to move, we're exhausted from sheer boredom. Either they make up, start sleeping together, or something, or we figure out another path to take. I will lose my mind if we keep going at this pace."

"Hmm. I might have a solution to our problem, but I'll wait for their return to go over details." Naliel finally sat up with a grunt and shifted so he could wrap his arms around Sarnaiel's shoulders. "And I have the feeling it is not our pace you're really frustrated about." He pressed his lips along his lover's pulse, earning him a shiver and low moan in response. "It has been a while for you."

"Gods, yes." Sarnaiel leaned back and tilted his head to give Naliel better access to his neck "Months and months and months. My hand is not comparable company, and you're right here and I can't do anything because of Sourpuss and Princess and I want to kill them both in their sleep." he snarled the last part and his lover chuckled, low and husky.

"I imagine they will be gone for some time." His hands moved to Sarnaiel's shoulders and down powerful arms while he continued to nip along sensitive flesh "The tent is right over there."

"Don't." Sarnaiel warned "Don't tease me Nal. You will do that thing....you do where you'll hear a noise and then it'll be 'Wait, Sarna, I think I hear someone coming, we should stop' and dammit, I won't have it this time! If they come back I'm not stopping Nal. Let them hear. In fact, I'll be extra noisy so they get the godsdamned hint and -"

He was pleasantly cut off as Naliel grabbed both sides of his face and pulled him in for a kiss. The intention had been only to silence the grouchy Ka'naar, but when he pulled back, both of them were flushed and breathless.

"Sarna. Get in. The tent." Naliel finally managed to say.

Sarnaiel let out a small, happy little sigh. "Okay."

079. Need You

2011-10-16T08:34:00.000-07:00

Click to view larger size

"Please," the word whispered along his skin, a tantalizing shiver racing up his spine and down to his groin. Such vulnerability should have disgusted him, but seeing, knowing the proud warrior underneath made that impossible.

Viron could never be disgusted by this man, which frightened him more than he would ever admit.

"Find someone else." he snapped, but there was no heat, no malice in his words. They were spoken half-hearted at best, because he knew the truth. Now he understood how his brother had felt all those years ago.

Helpless. Stranded. Chained. Except there was no master, no one pulling the strings. They were shackled together, weak together, helpless to a force greater than they could ever imagine.

"I can't." the response was expected, anticipated, yet Viron's breath still caught, and the desire to give in, to simply take what was being freely given was overwhelming. "Gods, but I want to. Please. I need you."

"No."

"Don't." there was a plea there, and Viron finally closed his eyes. "I've shamed myself enough. Ple-"

Growling, Viron reached forward before the other man could beg again and grabbed a fist full of hair as he crushed their lips together.

He'd deal with the regrets later.

078. Special Guest: Valentina Heart

2011-10-15T02:20:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone! Today I have author Valentina Heart here for an interview and to promote her new book, Teacher Plus Two. Thank you so much for stopping by!

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Q. What books have influenced your life the most?

I don't think I could name individual books as an influence. My reading habits are somewhat strange because I focus more on quantity. Even if I think a particular book is brilliant, chances are slim that I will read it again. But I will certainly explore the genre and read everything else with the same or similar subject I can get my hands on. One of the rare books I did read over and over again was Lestat by Anne Rice. I still own the same copy which is pretty much falling apart, and I suppose my writing is even now focused more on the paranormal.

Q. Do you recall how your interest in writing started?

My first memory of writing goes back to when I was ten probably. I wanted to rewrite the ending of a movie to fit my romance requirements. It was pretty silly but even then I wanted to write things down. Later it all escalated, although I never planned on actually writing and publishing a book.

Q. What are your current projects?

I have so many projects, all the time. There are two other books, King's Conquest and Battle of Hearts waiting for release with Silver Publishing, but I am also writing when I get some free time. What I'm working on the hardest is the King's conquest sequel. The whole series was planned as a trilogy and I really want to get it done. I'm also rewriting this one story about demons I half-wrote about a year ago. I don't know when I will finish all of it. Unfortunately Sebastian's wolves sequel is on hold. In my head it has epic proportions and somehow I'm having trouble writing that. Hopefully my fans won't be too cross with me.

Q. If you had to choose, which writer would you consider a mentor?

I don't really have a mentor. I have a few friends who help me when I'm in need, but none of them are writers. I do respect a few of them, and truly admire their work. But at the end of the day, I'm still human (my dreams about having a bit of paranormal blood don't count), and there is always that fear the authors I think so highly of won't be nice people if I actually do get to know them. So I suppose I'm keeping my distance out of pure fear. I could never give up reading some of their work.

Q: Is there a message in your novel you want readers to grasp?

Message? Maybe how love conquers all - just joking. Teacher plus Two is a book with very different characters. Those who appear weak and experienced sometimes hold more strength than those who are supposed to be pillars of confidence and power. I wanted to show different sides of individuals and their reactions to challenging situations. Fiction can easily be manipulated, and it's not very difficult to twist and turn until you achieve something not quite familiar but still believable. Despite that, I always try and make my men realistic. Give then characteristics you can easily find in your best friend and make my readers love them. It can't really get better than that - when a reader thanks you for writing a certain character or situation. I can honestly say those things mean more to me than money ever could. So I do hope I don't disappoint anyone with my new book.

Thank you for having me as your guest, Catriana.

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Thank you for the honor of having you as a guest, Valentina! Make sure to check out her new release!

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Description:
In a technologically advanced universe where humans are classed according to their sexual expertise, Orrin, a man approaching revered Teacher status, is kidnapped and forced to educate slaves in the pleasures of the flesh. Before he can attempt to teach his first student, he has to save the life of Fai, a purring Mattian. Orrin just manages to nurse his little lion back to health when their cell gains another occupant: Hara, an exotic and experienced slave who was sold by his old master. Despite their difficult circumstances and knowing they will eventually be separated, the three men form an steadfast bond.

Soon Hara finds himself with a colorful new Master across the universe while Orrin and Fai remain behind at the slave traders' base. With their problems only building daily, can they find a way back to each other or will they succumb to the trials they face?

Excerpt:

PROLOGUE

EARTH is a planet respected throughout the galaxy. Its population, formerly known for wars and brutality, evolved into a new race divided among Innocents, Adults, and Teachers, easily distinguishable by the color of their eyes.

Green-eyed Innocents are usually the youngest of their kind. Sexually inexperienced, they have yet to discover their hidden potential.

Adults, with their eyes the bright color of blue, make up most of the population and they lead regular lives, not willing or able to reach the higher level.

The last but most respected group is the Teachers. Becoming a Teacher is only achieved by some, through personal growth in every aspect of life, including spiritual, sexual, and emotional development. Their higher understanding of life, love, and spirituality, together with their extreme expertise in all sexual matters, brings them the gift of immortality. The stage when their blue Adult eyes turn to purple and they enter New Life makes them highly valued individuals on Earth as well as on other planets.

Teachers rarely stay on Earth. When it becomes apparent an individual might be at that level, it is likely he or she will travel, and self-improvement is encouraged as well as helped by other Teachers.

The Teachers’ desire to travel and spread their knowledge to other worlds brought new technologies back to Earth, making it one of the most developed planets in the system.

Chapter One

IT WAS one of those nights when a man wanted without knowing which desires were the strongest and what exactly would be enough to satisfy the nagging need. Unlike most of the time, Orrin was alone. Not in the mood for company, he walked through the smog-filled streets, deep in thought.

Living at the edge of the low town quarter had the advantage of being close enough to the center town quarter and the variety of restaurants, bars, and nourishment in general. The quality ranged from great to terrible depending on your establishment of choice, but center town was above low town in every way and a good place to find some entertainment, no matter what that entertainment might be.

Orrin had been walking for hours before he stopped in front of a bar, the green clover on the glass drawing his curious gaze. The symbol was one of the cultural remnants of the past, when different parts of the world had harbored different cultures and every trip could turn into an adventure.

Those times were long gone, and no matter where you went, you would find the same tall buildings, the same city layouts, and the same variety of people—beings whose genetic makeup wasn’t solely human. Discrimination between races was a thing of the past.

Inside the bar, the music was a joyful combination of notes, with an angry fellow growling his lyrics. Barely understandable words perfectly matched the mood of the song. The design of the interior separated the comfortable seating section from the casual standing area by the bar. Green was the dominant color next to the brown imitation wood that covered the walls, floor, and furniture.

Squinting through the smoke-filled room, Orrin found his way to the bar and placed his credit on its surface.

“What can I get ya?” the bartender asked, clear disinterest visible on his face even as he reflexively wiped the bar with an all-purpose bio-designed rag.

“House beer. And keep it coming,” Orrin said, already knowing that the night would be one of liquid pleasure and not pleasure of the flesh.

It was the end of the month, and he knew he had reached his drinking limit. It was one of the reasons why he had decided to go drinking alone—he knew the bartender would be forced to cut him off once his limit ran out.

The beer was black and bitter, kicking right where it should, and Orrin ignored both drunken and sober advances with no difficulty at all. For once, sex wasn’t what he wanted, and he happily indulged in his other vice.

It was late by any standard when his credit finally beeped that he’d had enough and he stumbled drunkenly into the night. It was a long walk back, just long enough to clear his mind of the alcohol, and he looked forward to getting home with a satisfied smile.

Orrin didn’t exactly see them as much as he sensed the aura of malicious intent and wicked satisfaction, but he never imagined they would be waiting for him. Only that surprise allowed them to get close enough to whack him over the head and change his life irreversibly.

BY THE time the alcohol and the force of the blow wore off, hours had passed, and Orrin knew that he was no longer on Earth.

His head was killing him, his hands even more so, and for some reason, his feet weren’t touching the ground. Opening his eyes more out of necessity than choice, he gave the room a glance, instantly wishing that he had stayed asleep.

It was a blank room with the characteristic metal walls of a space transport. There were no windows or doors that he could see and no objects close enough for him to reach with his feet. He was hanging from a chain, his arms painfully stretched above him, and his head hurt just enough for him not to try anything else to ease the stress of his position.

He heard the sound of a door swooshing open and the footsteps of who he assumed were his kidnappers.

“Are you awake, Teacher?” a rough voice asked as a palm connected with Orrin’s painfully strained shoulder.

“Yes,” he mumbled, more from curiosity than desire to indulge.

“Good. Now listen well. I know you are not yet a real Teacher, but those eyes of yours say you’re awfully close.” He paused for effect. “And so it happens that we need a Teacher on our jolly transport, and we decided you would be the perfect choice.”

There was nothing to say to that, and Orrin kept his mouth shut. Whatever reason they needed a Teacher, it did not bode well for him.

“Nothing to say?” the man asked, his greasy hair giving an even uglier appearance to an already ugly man. “Good. We just might be able to work with you. If not, we can always blast you off into space.” He laughed, his voice louder than those of the rest of the men in the room.

“Now, we have ourselves here a small merchant transport. We are proud businessmen. But I suppose the name you would use is along the lines of ‘slave traders’ or maybe ‘kidnapping scum’, if you’re feeling imaginative. Nonetheless, we consider ourselves businessmen, and every business has room for improvement, if you will.” The man paused, his characteristic blue Adult eyes icy cold as they watched for signs of understanding on Orrin’s face.

While Orrin was tired as well as hurt, he was not so hurt as to miss the point of the one-sided conversation. “You want them trained as sex slaves,” he whispered, his eyes wide from shock. It was almost unimaginable that someone would use a Teacher to take the innocence from an Innocent.

“Ah, good. I am glad the blow didn’t cause permanent damage. I assure you the idiots responsible have been punished. After all, you are our commodity now. No one wants damaged goods, even when they are not for sale.” He paused again, letting Orrin absorb his words. “At the moment.”

“I refuse,” Orrin spat in anger. There was no way he was going to go from room to room on a ship raping innocent souls so that they could be sold at a higher rate. He would rather die.

“I figured you would say something like that. But I’m afraid you are left with little choice.” The Adult looked almost sad in a sick, twisted kind of way. “You see, it’s easier to acquire random young males, as well as females, than it is to find someone of your status. Close enough to the Teacher status, yet not quite there. So you can refuse to obey, which will result in violence toward you and a rather harsh form of education for the young ones. It is your choice. But eventually, I am sure you will see things my way.”

The man flashed a line of irregular teeth as his lips curved into a wicked smile.

FAI finally felt wonderful. His skin fit like a glove, his emotions were in balance, and all he wanted to do was smile. He heard the door click discreetly behind him as he left his friend’s house for the day and headed home in a sudden rush.

Living alone had many advantages, some as simple as being away from his overbearing parents, others as necessary as his need for peace and quiet. But for a Mattian, it lacked one crucial thing: a willing person to cuddle with. Cuddling was almost like food for Mattians, as it released a hormone that recharged their energy and allowed them to function—nourishment without the actual consumption.

They had spent the whole afternoon together, watching the suns set in an amazing dance of red and purple, while making each other purr. Now it was already nighttime and he was walking home through narrow streets. All he wanted was to avoid any Mattians who were still around so no one would see his tail all ruffled up. Embarrassment was a common state among them because all things had their natural state and proper place. It was basic courtesy to exit your home with your tail perfectly groomed and your clothes covering your body in a fashionable way.

His friend lived in the very center of the city, where there were no big patches of trees and flowers, where stone discs covered the paths and tall houses stood next to each other. Travelers brought change with them, making the modern way of life take precedence over the company of nature. Old Mattians still lived among the trees, accepting nature as their companion and rejecting all that was new. Fai missed the green sometimes, the fresh air and the friendly creatures that so loved to play. He lived at the very edge of the modernized part of the section, but it still wasn’t the same as being surrounded by the pure air of untainted nature.

Just one corner away from his destination, a strong hand grabbed him from behind, pressing a damp cloth against his mouth. The smell of it was intoxicating, the cloth rough against his face, and he tried to fight the grip around him, but he was simply too small. In a matter of moments, his world spun and he flagged like a lifeless puppet into someone’s firm embrace.

It seemed as if whole cycles passed by while he stumbled in his scrambled dreams, with voices echoing in the rooms around him. He was terribly nauseated once he woke up, lost in pitch black, and his body was simply too heavy to move. The exhaustion draining him felt like the side effect of days without cuddling, but there was also some undercurrent unknown to him, taking away what strength he had left. He vaguely wondered about the smell they had pressed against his face, as he could still taste it on his tongue. Eventually, he closed his bleary eyes without meaning to, the strain becoming too much, and just as if someone had flipped a switch, he returned to those disconnected dreams, leaving his worries behind in the real world.

The next time he woke up, it was to a gentle palm against his cheek. A strange creature was watching him with a worried expression, its eyes between purple and blue in color.

“Are you all right?” The voice was so like the music that could be heard in the center where the artists played, and the soft sound made him ache for home. Somehow he knew that he was far away from everything he’d ever held dear, and his deep fear of the unknown was struggling to break free.

Answering seemed like a way to hear that voice again, to remember what he had lost. Fai needed at least that little bit of comfort, because he also knew that he was going to die. He felt it in his every cell, the way the energy just dissipated like simple rays of light, leaving him permanently empty. But when he tried speaking, tried voicing the barest of sounds, nothing came out. Instead, shivers started traveling down the length of his body. It took him just a moment to realize the extent of his weakness. He was too far gone even to talk, and the time he had left was limited to cycles at the most. The worst part wasn’t the pain his body felt or the fact that he would soon close his eyes forever; what ached like the most serious of wounds was the simple reality of being so very far away from anyone he knew. In his desperate sadness, he felt tears slip down his cheeks, and his eyes closed once more.

ORRIN looked at this adorable little being curled up on the narrow trunk against the cell wall. It had taken him forever to wake the little creature up, but he was already drifting away. Orrin wiped the stranded tears away from the gentle, narrow face, wondering what was wrong with him. You couldn’t ask a sleeping individual anything, despite the fact that Orrin’s heart was dying to know more about him.

He was by far the most beautiful thing Orrin had ever seen. He had soft, interestingly gray hair that matched the color of the long, lifeless tail that slipped from under the covers. As far as Orrin could see, the little one’s body was as smooth and soft as a baby’s. If not for the young, innocent face and body, Orrin would have thought him an old man simply due to the color of his hair and fur.

It’d been four days since he’d been confined to the naked cell with the little one; his roommate’s serious condition was worsening by the second. Orrin wasn’t familiar with the species, since this was also his first time away from Earth—a great time to regret his reluctance to explore the system.

They had taken Orrin because his eyes had taken on that distinctive purple touch. He wasn’t there yet, but he was close enough that the blue had ceased being the dominant color. Once it transferred completely, his rank would turn into that of a Teacher, and he would be one of the most desired individuals in the galaxy. On Earth, Adults gained the Teacher rank after years of independent sexual education. Only a few ever got that far, as the growth combined sexual, emotional, and spiritual understanding of one’s being. Having an open mind, a very big heart, and an unlimited amount of patience gained you the new status, but it also came with much-sought immortality and enough job offers to make your head spin.

Since it was impossible to kidnap a Teacher without someone noticing, his captors had opted for the second-best thing, and good old uninteresting Orrin had ended up on a space transport. His captors’ plan wasn’t so inconceivable. In fact, it made perfect sense. They kidnapped individuals from different worlds, carefully selecting only the good-looking ones for the sole purpose of selling them to the highest bidder. When they didn’t specify the purpose of those poor creatures on the market, the price was nominal, but the minute they characterized them as sex slaves, the price went up.

It was impossible to educate an innocent, inexperienced male in sexual matters by violence and rape. Though they would eventually learn, they would also lose their spirit, and spirit was a highly valued commodity. So the next logical solution came in the form of a Teacher, or as it happened, in the form of Orrin.

He could have said yes and been done with it, but the very idea went against everything he believed in, and his captors weren’t above beating obedience into him. As it was, he was covered in almost-healed cuts and bruises, which they left to heal on their own. Orrin hadn’t been a pretty sight when he was first paired with the little mystery on the bed attached to the wall, barely moving in all shades of blue, black, and purple, but now he was almost back to his old self, with the addition of that obedience beaten into him.

Well, not really obedience. More like temporary acceptance. He was getting off of the transport as soon as he spotted his chance.

The little guy who currently occupied the bed was supposed to be his first pupil, but after regaining consciousness for the first time only minutes ago, was already back in the dream world again. It was unnerving to be so helpless when all you wanted to do was help. Orrin was sick to his stomach of watching the almost lifeless body lying on the bed, unmoving.

Like he had countless times before, Orrin slipped his fingers through those strands of gray as he watched the small chest rise and fall with every breath. He had kept his distance for all those days, hoping that the creature would eventually wake up. But he hadn’t been prepared for the creature’s sad eyes or the way the gray captured his heart.

Orrin had never considered taking a lover of another species. Living his whole life on Earth made him a somewhat-sheltered man, his sexual encounters limited to his own kind despite the variety of possible lovers. It wasn’t that he was against it like some people were; it was that the idea had never even crossed his mind. Humans were the dominant species, and all the newcomers tended to keep to themselves. Unfortunately Orrin was not one to search for lovers; he preferred they come to him.

He heard the doors of their cell open just before one of the Adults stuck his head through the gap. “Is he awake yet?” The mocking voice spread throughout the room.

“He woke only for a second, started to shake, and fell asleep again. Something is very wrong with him. Can you ask someone about his species?” Orrin asked desperately for the tenth time since they had brought him into the room.

“I’ve asked around, but no one knows anything about them. All they know is that his planet is called Matti. He was the only one they took.”

“Matti? I’ve heard that name somewhere before….” Orrin’s mind was frustratingly out of focus, and he opened every door, desperately searching for that information.

“Well, if he dies, we’ll give you another guy. It’s not like we are short on them. The females are in high demand at the moment—sorry about that.” The Adult laughed cruelly and closed the door behind him.

Orrin felt blinding hatred for all of them consuming his body. Although he’d never hated before, the emotion being contradictory to his character, now it seemed to be all he was capable of. It wasn’t that he cared so much about his fate. There was no one waiting desperately for his return, and he had no place to call home. He wasn’t even important enough that anyone would notice his disappearance. But this little guy had been ripped out of his world only to be brought to a place where he would probably die. It was unacceptable to Orrin. Living beings deserved so much more. Love, tenderness, and respect should fill their lives, not this metal prison of abuse. It wasn’t natural.

Basic Teacher training, the hard lessons of unlimited love and acceptance, swam through his mind. He had learned so much during his years, focusing on the needs of others and giving only the good he had to offer while accepting whatever was offered in return. It was soiling his mind to be exposed to the worst form of human selfishness and cruelty. It was also hard not to think about the world he craved, the one where peace and harmony were as normal as breathing and where wickedness and greed were just words from the past. But it was nothing more than wishful thinking on his part. Wherever there were humans, there was pain and suffering, despite all their so-called progress. It was inevitable, and quite frankly, it was sad.

But thoughts of perfect harmony triggered some distant memory, and a forgotten conversation came to mind. When he was just a child, the first Teacher he had ever met had talked to him about a planet where only peace existed. The inhabitants were shy and gentle beings who had no notion of evil or corruption. They lived their long lives constantly caring for each other and providing for the needs of others. Orrin remembered the reason the topic had seemed so sad. Everyone who lived there, in their desire to make their lives more pleasant, focused all their attention on the most comfortable aspects of their existence.

They had discarded the course of nature, how children were made in the moments of passion, leaving only the necessary cuddling as their form of closeness. Getting naked was too embarrassing for such a timid species, and somehow, during the years, they forgot how to make children.

The Teacher talked about how it was a shame to let them die out and how the Teachers could have a huge influence there. He was one of those who had fought for their education in that field.

Orrin also remembered how his childish curiosity had forced him to ask about the cuddling, especially how such a casual thing could be more crucial than making children. The Teacher had answered, “Because cuddling gives them energy. Just like food and water sustain us, a Mattian cannot live without another person to make him purr.”

That was the answer! Orrin jumped to his feet, excited by the memory and the solution it presented. That was the reason why the little guy was so sick. He’d been alone for days, and the poor thing was starving to death. Orrin hoped that he wasn’t too late as he climbed onto the bed and pulled the little guy firmly into his arms.

The little gray head was resting on Orrin’s bicep, while his palm hurriedly rubbed against the other man’s scalp. Touching the rest of him was surprisingly soothing even for Orrin. His other hand was moving carefully from the shoulder down to the Mattian’s belly, where he pressed lightly in comfort. There was no instant sound of awareness, and doubt started to creep into his mind, but it was still too early to give up. He lifted his knee and rubbed those thin legs as well. His whole body engulfed the little lion, and in a moment of desperation, he gently pressed his lips to the pale, exposed neck.

A soft rumble sounded in the Mattian’s throat, and like an avalanche, it soon spread throughout his body, making Orrin’s face crack into a wide smile. He hugged and rubbed the little body with delight, finally feeling traces of hope somewhere deep inside.

077: Special Guest: Keta Diablo!

2011-10-14T00:00:00.000-07:00

Land of Falling Stars, and erotic romance Civil War novel
Keta Diablo

About Land of Falling Stars:

On Kindle: http://amzn.to/oqrFvd
On Nook: http://bit.ly/nyDzns

After her parents die in a fire, Sophia Whitfield struggles to save herbeloved home, Arbor Rose. The Civil War has devastated the South, and anotherblue coat has come to steal her meager possessions. Before the hated enemy inflictshis destruction, she shoots him. And soon discovers the soldier is Gavin, the championof her childhood.

Gavin's dark secret lurks in Sophia’s future. When she discovers the truth,she's torn between a burning hunger for the man she truly loves and loyalty to Jesse,their childhood friend. The despicable acts of war have changed everythingSophia and Gavin once cherished. Yet somewhere deep in their hearts, themystical Land of Falling Stars still exists.

Snippets of Reviews:
Snippets of Reviews:
"Hot sex, tension, love & hate, right & wrong, danger, secrets, & a wolfhound. Land of Falling Stars." 4.5 Stars
"This is the story of a Southern lady and a Yankee soldier who face the aftermath of the War Between the States. Any historical, erotic, romance reader will enjoy this fast paced, action-packed story where the hero and heroine not only enjoy each other but have a love-hate relationship with banter and wit. A MUST READ. Recommend to anyone who loves historical and erotic romance." 4.5 Stars My Book Addiction & More.
"This is one steamy hot erotic historical ebook that I devoured as soon as I got a couple of pages in...I recommend that all erotic romance readers go out and buy this ebook. It's a keeper." -Talk About My Favorite Authors (Five Stars)
"Keta Diablo has woven a tale set in Civil War times that is truly engaging." --The Girls on Books Blog (4 "martinis")
"I thoroughly enjoyed Land of Falling Stars, and hope to read more of the people of Arbor Rose and Fredericksburg." --Whipped Cream Erotic Romance Reviews (4.5 "cherries")
"If you enjoy passion and emotion in your romance, Land of Falling Stars is one you won't want to miss! --Jennifer's Random Musings (4.5 stars)
"A story that has the ups and downs of a roller coaster and keeps the reader hanging on with bated breath, Land of Falling Stars is captivating. The author has a great knack for weaving words together to bring a vivid picture to the reader's mind." --Bookwenches (4.5 stars)
Crave More Romance says: “If you haven’t read Keta Diablo you haven’t lived!”
Night Owl Romance says: Diablo has penned a beautiful, haunting love story full of passion, deception, and danger that will leave you breathless and longing for more! (Five Stars)
EXCERPT:
Excerpt:
Set-up: Gavin is wounded from a knife fight with one of the villains. He finds Sophia hiding in a barn after the fight.
~ ~ ~
Sophia pressed her back against the rough-hewn planks of the stable wall and inched her way down to a bed of hay at her feet. With her heart thudding, she closed her eyes and willed the brutal images to leave her mind. Gavin could be dead, his blood seeping into the ground. The irony. Three years he'd been gone, fought in a hundred battles only to be killed after he'd come back . . . back to her. Oh, God, she couldn't think about it, couldn't stand to watch him die. She ran hard and fast the second Billy sliced through the soft, golden skin she longed to touch again. Sweet Mother of Jesus, what if he was dead and she’d never . . . .
"I found you."
She lifted her head and looked into Gavin's eyes. A horse neighed several stalls
over and the moon spun out from a patch of clouds shrouding his lean body. His bare chest oozed blood and trickled into his waistband.
Relief flooded her and then panic. "You're bleeding again."
"Am I?" He glanced down at the wound and back to her face. "It looks worse than
it is."
She hesitated when he held his hand out. She didn’t know what would happen when her skin come into contact with his. Beneath his bold perusal, she lifted her trembling hand.
"You're frightened," he said, his forehead creased. “Of me, Sophia?"
She shook her head and hoped he didn't see through her lie. After witnessing his
rage moments ago, she didn't know what to expect from him.
"I would never," he said in a hoarse tone, "harm you." Moving in, he forced her back against the wooden planks. His warm breath fanned her cheeks. "I don't want you to fear me, ever." His chest rose and fell on torn breaths, and his mouth hovered over hers, mingling their breaths. "Kiss me, Sophia."
She looked into his eyes, transfixed by the depth of passion residing there. He placed his hands on the wall and bracketed her head. Their lips met. In the aftermath of the violence, she expected a harsh, demanding kiss, but it was anything but. Gentle and languorous, it shook her to the very core. His tongue caressed her lower lip seeking entry. She responded without thought, parting her lips on a small moan. The erotic dance against the tip of her tongue sent a stream of wild sensations through her limbs. Her hands sought the warm flesh of his chest, every inch ridged muscle. He flinched when her fingers made contact with the fresh wound. Astounded by the emptiness she felt when he broke from the kiss, she gathered her battered senses and looked into his eyes.
“Is that how it felt when Jesse kissed you?"

Trapped between the wall and his body, she looked away from those wicked eyes.
Deliriously weak, shocking images of him crushing her beneath him stormed through her mind. Dear God, what's the matter with me? Promised to Jesse, bound to him heart and soul, I can’t allow myself to think about Gavin's powerful limbs tangled in my bed sheets, his head thrashing in delirium, or his hot, feverish eyes. Since Gavin had returned, her mind swam with carnal thoughts of the man.
A hand came down and lifted her chin, forcing her to look at him. "Hmm, Sophia, is it?"
"I'm so befuddled." Tears pooled in her eyes. "What about Jesse? I promised I'd wait no matter what happened, but . . . ." To speak her heart would be the epitome of betrayal to the person they’d both loved since the day they sailed the Rappahannock dressed as pirates.
He kissed her eyelids. "If he returned tomorrow, you'd fall into his arms; pretend you feel nothing for me, deny this passion between us?"
"Gavin, don't . . . ." She averted her face.
He tightened his grip on her chin, his tone harsh. "Would you, Sophia?"
"Yes," she whispered. "I'd go to him, banish this from my mind."
"It would be that easy?"
"Not easy, Gavin, but . . . ."
"You need to leave Arbor Rose!" His raised voice startled her. "There's nothing left for you here! Your parents are dead and Jesse isn't . . . ."
Without conscious thought, she slapped him. "Don't say it! I can't leave Arbor Rose. Jesse will return and−”
"He's not coming back and you have to face it." He brought a hand to her cheek. "The entire country is about to explode, and if you had any god-given sense, you'd go to your mother's people in Illinois."
She narrowed her eyes, her tone icy. "Let me go. Jesse's coming back and when he does I'm going to keep my promise and marry him.” Her voice softened. "We must forget this, whatever it is."
She shivered from the volatile emotion in his eyes. The same feral snarl that came over him when he crushed Billy and his companions spewed from his lips. He grabbed her wrists, pinned them over her head, and took her mouth, hard. His tongue plundered her lips and forced them apart. She writhed to free herself, but he held her fast, imprisoning her in their mutual desire. Erotic pleasure surged through her veins. Her fingers moved to his long, black hair and she seemed incapable of stopping the moans from the back of her throat.
Clinging to him like a child, she whimpered, "Gavin . . . please."
"You want me, admit it," he said against her mouth.
He clutched a length of her skirt and shoved it over her hips, allowing his fingers to slide up the hot flesh of her thighs. A sound erupted from her throat again, no longer a moan of pleasure but a sob. He stopped on a heartbeat, stepped back and dropped his hands to his sides. Their eyes locked. His shone with lust and anger. She wanted to draw back, knew she should flee but something powerful held her immobilized. Warning bells rang in her head yet she longed to return to his kiss, feel his body against hers.
He drew a deep breath. "Leave, Sophia, now!"
She inched her way along the wall, turned to look at him one last time and scurried through the door.
* * *
MARK YOUR CALENDAR!
Don't miss the blog tour coming up October 14th through the 23rd. Nine bloggers, prize at every blog. HERE BEGINNING OCTOBER 14th: http://thebookishsnob.blogspot.com/
Follow Keta's Romance Blog if you'd like to know more about her books! http://ketaskeep.blogspot.com
Have a great week everyone! Keta

PS: Leave a comment below if you'd like to win a copy of my best-selling paranormal, WHERE THE RAIN IS MADE. Catriana will select a winner in three days and let me know. I'll send you WHERE THE RAIN IS MADE. If you love Native American shifters and mysticism, you'll love this novel.

Read 25 FIVE STAR reviews here on Amazon Kindle: http://amzn.to/ev0I3Y

GOOD LUCK everyone and thanks so much for hosting me on your blog Catriana.
---

Thanks for stopping by Keta, it's a real honor! Good luck to everyone!

076. Special Guest: Dorien Grey!

2011-10-01T16:39:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone! Today I've snagged mystery author Dorien Grey here for an interview. He's answered a few of my questions, but you're more than welcome to stop by his blog(which is quite intriguing, mind you) or e-mail him(doriengrey [at] gmail [dot] com)with your own questions. If you haven't already heard of him, I'd strongly recommend catching up. His writing is eloquent and intriguing with a unique style to draw the reader in, be it personal musings or through his published works.

So then! Questions, questions, questions!

-----

1) Can you share a little of your current work with us?

Oh, my. Because I am always working on a book, and always have at least one waiting in the publisher's pipeline (right now I have 9, including the reissue of the first ten books of my Dick Hardesty mystery series.) But the two most current are The Peripheral Son, the fourteenth 14th (!) book in the Dick Hardesty series, which should be released in October, and I'm busily working on Dante's Circle, the fourth book in the Elliott Smith paranormal mystery series (it's "paranormal" only because one of the major characters is noncorporeal--I love that word).

The Peripheral Son involves the disappearance of a writer about whom almost nothing is known, a boxer with a shot at the title who just happens to be gay, an enigmatic accountant, a scandal-plagued construction union, and a toy truck.

Dante's Circle finds Elliott, his partner Steve, and dream-visitor John reluctantly trying to help a famous but annoyingly egotistical concert pianist figure out how he died and who, if anyone, killed him.

2) Do you see writing as a career?

No, I see it as a life. I so dislike reality that I long ago retreated into the world of my mind to create my own. My characters are very real to me, and I'm delighted to say to many of my readers.

3) Did you learn anything from writing your book? If so, what?

I'm often surprised, when writing, to realize I have strong opinions on things I'd never really thought I'd had much of an opinion at all. And I am always delighted when, while writing along, something will suddenly appear totally out of left field. I love to--and often--tell how, while writing The Good Cop, book #5 of the Dick Hardesty series, I have Dick go into a bar to pick up a paper and seeing a young man who subsequently becomes his partner. When I had him go into the bar, I had absolutely no intention of, or idea of, his meeting Jonathan. It just happened, and I'm still amazed by it.

4) What was the hardest part of writing your book?

Writers frequently say that they don't really write their books...they just sit down at the computer and read what their fingers put on the monitor. That is definitely true with me. I find it difficult to describe writing as hard. Keeping on top of the details, though...making sure you don't screw up the chronological order of events, that you get your facts straight, that you do not tell the reader one thing on page 12 and exactly the opposite thing on page 20; that you always follow up on every clue you plant; that you never leave the reader feeling cheated.

5) Do you have any advice for other authors?

Probably more advice than there is time or space to give here. But a few basic tips: 1) Never talk down to your reader--talk to him or her. I always write my books as though I'm talking with a friend...which I hope I am, in fact, doing. 2) Never use a dollar word when a nickel word will do. If you wouldn't say something a certain way, don't write it that way. 3) Remember you know far more about your story than the reader knows. He or she knows only what you tell him/her (lord, how I hate this "him/her, he/she" political correctness!!) and what can be deduced from what you have said. 4) Always remember that if the reader can be confused, he (live with it!) will be. 5) Avoid deus ex machina at all costs...don't suddenly come up with something you haven't somehow prepared the reader for.

A story should be like good gravy: there should be no lumps. Go over your story as often as you need to so that there is nothing that will cause the reader to stop in mid-sentence and say, "What? Where did that come from?"

*****

Thank you, Catriana, for letting me introduce myself to your followers. I invite them to check out my website at http://www.doriengreycom, and if they have any questions I'd be happy to hear from them at doriengrey@gmail.com

-----

Thank you Dorien, for stopping by, it was an honor. And I hoped you all enjoyed the interview!

075. Silver Flash Wednesday!

2011-09-20T17:43:00.000-07:00

Another Silver Flash! Whoo, I'm on a roll!

Some of what happened before this scene: Last week, Reine and Valir went to go talk privately, leaving Regina and Linri alone.

What happened between scenes: Regina seemed off to Linri, until he finally recognized her scent and led her to an empty room to confront her.

It turns out Regina is a nether creature, a succubus, and someone who Linri helped while doing missions for his master. She's made a pact with Reine, granting the noblewoman magical powers in exchange for her life energy. For Linri, she brings him a gift, shadowsilk clothes, so when he shifts, he does not go back into human form naked.

This weeks prompts were: " ...will you stop doing that! I can't concentrate when you're ...."
or to use either of the elements in our story:
a full moon, an iron gate, suitcase

And now to our scene!

----------

After what felt like hours, Valir and Reine exited the room. Regina and Linri were waiting, the shifter in his new shadowsilk ensemble.

Valir started when he saw his friend, stunned at the new attire. Then his expression darkened, but before Linri could decipher what it meant, the look disappeared. Instead, he turned to Reine, reaching down to kiss her hand again.

"I'll call the servants to have your suitcase and belongings put into a guest room near mine. Is that alright?"

Suitcase? Guest room? Linri cocked his head to the side, clearly confused by this new scenario.

No one seemed to pay him any mind. Valir quickly called over a wandering servant and, with a few instructions, Reine and her servent were off. Regina gave Linri a saucy wink and smirk before walking away, and he ignored Valir's blank stare.

"So, they are staying, Master?" If he were honest, the chances of him being punished for not addressing Valir properly were slim. Most of the time, owners handled their own slaves, unless they acted terribly out of line. Mostly, Linri was so formal with his master because image meant everything in the family. Valir wasn't exactly a favored son due to his non-ambitious and unassertive attitude. At the very least, his family would be unable to use the way he treated his slave as an excuse.

"For a few days." Valir looked pensive, his lips drawn tight, skin a little pale. "So," he turned to his slave. "I recognize that fabric. Shadowsilk. Did Reine have that made for you?"

"Actually, it was Regina." He didn't want to tell Valir the truth about Reine's servant out in the open. Thoughts of their earlier activities had him blushing, which Valir caught immediately.

His master grinned, but his eyes looked distant. "Linri, you sly fox, you're blushing." he poked at his friend. "I was wondering if you were ever going to tell me you had a crush on anyone."

Oh, but those words hurt. After so long, how could Valir not realize? Linri plastered on a smile and chuckled lightly "It's not like that. Regina and I...I helped her with something important." he tugged on his new tunic "She repaid me with this." Among other things. He hoped she was satisfied, considering the amount of energy she had sucked out of him. His head still felt light and he'd be unable to shift for at least another hour or so or risk passing out.

"Must have been really important." Valir muttered. "Do you know how much shadowsilk costs? Just a square foot alone is worth a lot of coin."

"I know." Linri dipped his head, feeling uneasy. "She...said she never saw me wearing any, and as a shifter -"

"Does she believe I cannot provide for you?" Valir sounded insulted.

"No! Of course not!" Where was this hostility coming from all of a sudden? "She just wanted to do something nice. She saved the money Lady Reine had been giving her to have this made for me. She didn't mean it as an insult, Master."

approx: 513 words

-----

Check out the other Flashers for this week:

Julie Hayes (m/m)
http://julielynnhayes.blogspot.com

Chris Quinton (m/m)
http://chrisquinton.com

Victoria Blisse (m/f)
http://www.victoriablisse.co.uk

L. M. Brown (m/m)
http://lmbrownauthor.blogspot.com/

Freddy MacKay (m/m)
http://freddymackay.blogspot.com

Lily Sawyer (m/m)
http://lilysawyerbooks.blogspot.com/

West Thornhill (m/m)
http://wthornhillauthor.blogspot.com/

Lindsay Klug (m/f)
www.ichbineinteufel.blogspot.com

Sui Lynn (m/m)
http://suidlynn.blogspot.com/?zx=57a5d3d27a15dbfa

Ryssa Edwards (m/m)
http://www.ryssaedwards.net/blog/

Elyzabeth M. VaLey (m/f)
http://inadreambeyond.blogspot.com/

074. Silver Flash Wednesday

2011-09-14T00:59:00.000-07:00

A 'chibi' version of Linri in
human form.
Art by Kai-isolated

Another Silver Flash! Righteous Path once again, although this will take some explaining, as I've cut out a bit of scene since it went over 1000 words.

Last time, Reine had just made her appearance. Verrell, Valir's brother, greeted her first, and the two argued. Now Valir has come in and the two are meeting each other for the first time in many years. You can read any previous entries by click on either tag.

Since I keep forgetting, this week's prompts were:

"Well, I don't know about you, but I like to know what I'm getting into."

OR

Use the following elements in your story: key, paper, raw meat

What's in bold is what you'll find, although if you squint and tilt your head sideways, you can probably catch the potential for the first prompt in there.
---------

While not as tall as his older brother, Valir had the body of a warrior. Hardened muscles were covered by a thin dark blue shirt which matched his eyes perfectly. Light brown hair was cut short and currently damp, as if he had just come from a bath. Unlike Verrell, his features were not as angular, although Valir shared the same high cheekbones. His jaw was wider and had full pink lips Reine wanted very much to nibble on. His pants were black, thick material which tapered off at his ankles.

Even with the change, he still looked as kind as ever. His posture wasn't slouched and he didn't walk with arrogance or pride, but his steps were sure and steady. Valir had grown up to become a very handsome man, Jaxx would be extremely jealous.

"By the gods, it is you!" And that heart-melting voice. Well, this would make things much easier, knowing he had a face she could stand to see on a regular basis. Valir practically skipped down the stairs, his lips curving into a smile that made him practically glow.

She could not help but flush a little, knowing her presence was the reason for his excitement. Verrell took a step back, releasing her arm as Valir pressed forward, taking her raised hand and bringing her fingers to his lips.

Oh, he smelled wonderful too, like fresh cloves, sage, and soap. She actually took a step toward him, needing to get away from his offensively smelling brother.

"It has been some time, Valir." Reine nodded in greeting, keeping her voice and facial expressions steady. He would hardly take her seriously if she acted as if her brains were filled with vapors. "I apologize for the announced visit, but there is something urgent I must speak with you about. Now, unless you have other, more pressing matters."

"Snake." Verrell hissed. "Don't be fooled, brother. She wants something, and I doubt whatever she has to offer is genuine. She just stormed in here making demands and spitting out insults, only to turn and act polite and innocent in your presence. You'd do well to throw her out until she learns proper manners."

Valir cocked his head, his brows furrowing in confusion. Reine pressed close, wrapping her arms around his - and giving his bicep a little squeeze, oh but he was nice - to which he responded as she'd intended. He blushed, which looked admittedly adorable, all of his attention on her. "I'm perfectly agreeable around those I do not utterly despise." She said cheerfully, flashing Valir one of her infamous smiles she knew all the noble males chattered about. He didn't resist as she began to guide him up the right side of the double stairwell. "And I've no reason to hate Valir."

Not yet.

As if reading her thoughts, he laughed nervously and quickly looked at his fuming brother. "Do not worry Verrell, I'll handle it. I'll also make sure to escort Reine out. I'm sorry for the disturbance."

"Just go. Get out of my sight." Disgusted with the both of them, Verrell stormed out to the left, shouting at servants to either get out of his way or to do something for him. By then, the couple had already made it halfway up.

Once Verrell was out of sight, Valir finally turned his attention back to her. Behind them, her mousy servant lingered, keeping her bundle clutched close to her chest as if she were to die without. "Why are you here, Reine?" he asked. "Not that I'm not pleased to see you, it has been a long time and you look..."

He stumbled and Reine did not interrupt at first, marvelling at the grown Valir before her. Only five minutes in his presence and yet she could already read him, as if there had never been a gap between them. Were Jaxx here, would he resent his former best friend? Valir carried strength, but also an innocence that shouldn't even exist. Not just strength of body, she could see the edges of small runes peeking from his collar. Sealing runes.

Reine didn't know if she wanted to laugh with relief or claw at his face. She had come with a purpose and expectations, only for the latter to falter upon laying eyes on him. Instead of anger and bitterness, she felt sorry for them both. She couldn't even be bothered to glance at the layout of the estate, especially since she honestly hated anything and everything to do with the Dur'liett family.

"Hmm," her smile was coy as she put a finger to her lips, finally interrupting his awkward moment. "I look, handsome? I have to admit, I do love this dress." she provided.

"No, I...no." He slowed his pace, keeping his gaze straight ahead. "You look beautiful, Reine. The years have been kind to you."

She did not respond, because she couldn't. The moment she became of age, men had been spouting those very same words. Reine knew how she looked and had often used it to her advantage, as many noblewomen did. Up until now, she'd thought herself immune to flattery. Heat rose to her cheeks, so she opted for silence as opposed to fumbling or reacting otherwise unfavorably. She had a part to play and would see her plan through.

Darkness, surprisingly, had a peculiar smell when utilized magically. Her skin prickled as she sensed the newcomer. Large and red, the fox emerged beside its master, dark smoke rolling off its body. Ah, Linri. She knew this one.

He hung back for a moment to saunter over and sniff at her. She politely swatted him away from her behind, smiling good humouredly. Valir looked embarrassed and affronted.

"Linri! Don't be rude."

"He's fine." Reine squeezed his arm again as Linri's ears drooped and he trotted back to his master. "Where are we going? I prefer to speak in private."

This time he did stop. "I was thinking of taking you to Father's study."

"No. We will go to your room. You will have safeguarded it well." She snorted when he looked scandalized "Don't be a child, I trust you with my virtue. Regina," the snap of her fingers and the maid was at her side, handing over a long and wide envelope holding a decent stack of papers. "Let us not dawdle."

------------
Approx: 1,061 words.

Check out these other fine flashers this week:

Julie Hayes (m/m)
http://julielynnhayes.blogspot.com

Chris Quinton (m/m)
http://chrisquinton.com

Elyzabeth M. VaLey (m/f)
http://inadreambeyond.blogspot.com/

West Thornhill (m/m)
http://wthornhillauthor.blogspot.com/

Freddy MacKay (m/m)
http://freddymackay.blogspot.com

Lily Sawyer (m/m)
http://lilysawyerbooks.blogspot.com/

Pender Mackie (m/m)
http://pendermackie.blogspot.com

Sui Lynn (m/m)
http://suidlynn.blogspot.com/?zx=57a5d3d27a15dbfa

Victoria Blisse (m/f)
http://www.victoriablisse.co.uk

Ryssa Edwards (m/m)
http://www.ryssaedwards.net/blog/

073. A Scene From The Arcanus Series

2011-09-11T06:25:00.001-07:00

For those who followed my Six Sentence Sundays and have read Destined, I have a special treat for you. A small scene from a story I am working on. The setting is during the first year of Rhiannon's arrival to Liunos lands, so is somewhat of a prequel to Destined.

In this scene, Pavien Liunos, son of Lavern and next in line to lead, meets his new apprentice, Veciel Rianlai Liunos.

----------

"Hm?" Pavien turned, waiting patiently for the boy to catch his breath. Silver hair was cut short, but two slender braids dangled on each side of his face, keeping with the current trend. What was most surprising were the grey and yellow robes of a Elementalist in training. The child could be no older than fifteen or sixteen at the most. A prodigy?

"Ah!" With a small nod, Pavien grinned as the memory returned "You're my new student, right? Corrineth's boy."

"Y-yes." Still panting, the young elf struggled to stand while keeping his pile of books protected in his arms. "I am...Veciel. I hail from the Rianlai house." He let out a calming breath, pale cheeks still red from running the halls. Pavien noted how Veciel avoided his gaze shyly. How cute.

"Does your mother still hate me for taking your big sister away?"

"Oh, absolutely." Veciel almost dropped his books upon realizing his words, looking horrified. "Wait! I mean...that is..."

Both father and son laughed, before Lavern placed a hand on Pavien's shoulder. "I'll leave you two to get acquainted." He shot a smile in Veciel's direction. "Take care, young one. Pavien is an excellent instructor...when he is not slacking."

Pavien snorted. "Don't you have a woman you need to go fail at wooing?" he waved a hand at his father, who groaned at the reminder as he walked away. "Go on, shoo." Veciel jumped a little when the attention was back on him. "And I am not a slacker. All of the students I have trained have become excellent Elementalists."

"I-I believe you!" The words came out a little sharper than intended and Veciel flinched. "I do. I mean, I've heard so many stories about you -"

"Good ones, I hope."

"Um, the ones from my sister, Master Pavien. Not from my mother."

"Ah yes, we've already established she hates me with a fierce passion."

This time Veciel let out a snort, which, honestly, sounded adorable when accompanied with the roll of those uniquely colored eyes. "You have no idea." he muttered, almost to himself. "When sister left, one would have thought the world to be ending, the way mother spoke of it."

"Goodness, I didn't realize I was so popular in the Rianlai home." Pavien scratched the back of his head "And just call me Pavien. 'Master' makes me sound like an old man, and I'm not quite there just yet. I've a few more centuries to go, I hope."

"Of course! I mean, you look...great." A dreamy sort of look crossed Veciel's features as he let out the last word almost breathlessly. He then turned a very interesting shade of red, which Pavien found absolutely adorable - he really was like a miniature version of his lover Viria. Their hair and eye colors were completely different, but their facial structures were almost identical, along with their expressions.

And the boy had a crush. Pavien couldn't wait to tell Viria. Unfortunate the boy wasn't a bit older, or he'd have some fun.

"It's alright, Veciel." He stopped the boy from his spluttering apologies at being so forward. "I'm not offended. Flattered, but just remember I am your instructor and I already have two mates. You might want to focus your attentions on one more readily available. It shouldn't be too difficult, you're a handsome boy."

"I am?" Veciel's voice cracked just a bit, and he cleared his throat. Then he stood up straight, puffing out his little chest. "Well, I am a Rianlai. Um, in any case, I just wanted to introduce myself. I saw you and I've been looking forward to meeting you ever since they assigned me." The sheepish look returned and he shuffled his feet. "It's an honor."

Pavien bowed, inwardly smiling at Veciel's little gasp of surprise. "The honor is mine, to be teaching one of the youngest Qui'vali to be accepted as an Elementalist. Work hard, young Veciel." He straightened, pleased with the bright look in his new student's eyes.

This one is meant for great things, I can feel it.

072. The World of Vi'deà

2011-09-10T06:47:00.000-07:00

Torne has left all he has ever known and cared for to search for his brother who abandoned their people, the Ashi'taeo. Alexei, a former Brovadi slave turned assassin, is fleeing a different sort of enslavement. As these two travel the rocky and mountainous continent of Feida they find answers to their questions, discover possibilities they hadn't known existed, and find in each other a camaraderie they never would have predicted.

------

More to come...

071. Silver Flash Wednesday

2011-08-23T22:42:00.000-07:00

Here's another installment of Righteous Path!
----

Ever faithful, Linri nudged his master as Valir sat back, staring blankly at the growing flames. His arm wrapped around the fox's slender shoulders and he idly scratched behind furry ears.

The world needed to change, or at least, his did. Even cowards needed to be brave at times, right? He could not allow the injustices in his life to continue. It was time to stand up and fight his fears.

Except just the thought of defying his father and brother made his knees quiver and his body seize up. For all their cruelty, they were still family and he loved them. Valir spent most of his young life trying to do little more than bring a proud smile to his father's face. To earn even the slightest of recognition. Besides, could he truly fight for a position he didn't even want for his own selfish purposes? He couldn't even properly deal with people, how could he run an entire estate and the lands attached?

His weaknesses would cause his subjects to suffer. What was more important, the lives of the many or the lives of the few?

The sharp sting of teeth drew Valir from his musings. "Ow! Hey!" He snatched his hand back, rubbing the bite mark Linri left. No broken skin, but just enough to get the point across. The large fox rolled over on his back and years of practiced communication between the two revealed the message in golden, glowing eyes.

You think too much.

"Insufferable..." the noble muttered playfully. He smirked when his fingers scratched the right spot on Linri's belly, earning him pleased kicks from a hind leg.

x x x x x

Three days later, an ornate white carriage arrived at the estate, carrying one Reine Pol'deau and her hand-maiden. The young noble stepped out of the carriage, chin raised and gait steady. Thick black curls barely moved and not a hair on her head was out of line, draping over her creamy shoulders and down to the middle of her back.

Reine's servant shuffled behind her, an unremarkable girl with a round face dotted with freckles. She carried a small package wrapped in silks, held tightly against her flat chest. Dull brown eyes shifted nervously, but her mistress completely ignored the startled gasps and scrambling of the Dur'liett servants.

Cool blue eyes sparkled with determination, Reine's lightly painted lips were drawn tight in a frown. Her blue suede heels clicked along the stone steps as she hitched her skirts up. The large red double doors, adorned with golden filigree opened as she reached the top. Without hesitation, she brushed past the threshold, taking in her surroundings.

One of the servants finally approached her directly. "Lady Reine I-"

She held up a gloved hand, cutting the older gentleman off. Shouts of her arrival echoed throughout the halls along with scattered footsteps. Although her hand-maiden fidgeted nervously, Reine merely crossed her arms and waited. She was not approached by another servant even as they watched her warily, unsure of what to do or say.

------

That's it for this week! I hope you enjoyed!

Check out these other authors this week:

Sui Lynn (m/m)
http://suidlynn.blogspot.com/?zx=57a5d3d27a15dbfa

Julie Hayes (m/m)
http://julielynnhayes.blogspot.com

Freddy MacKay
http://freddymackay.blogspot.com

Lily Sawyer (m/m)
http://lilysawyerbooks.blogspot.com/

Victoria Blisse (m/f)
http://www.victoriablisse.co.uk

Chris Quinton
http://chrisquinton.com

West Thornhill (m/m)
http://wthornhillauthor.blogspot.com/

Ryssa Edwards (m/m)
http://www.ryssaedwards.net/blog/

070. Special Guest: Pia Valeno!

2011-08-19T21:09:00.000-07:00

Today fellow Silver Publishing author Pia Valeno has stopped by to talk about Silver Flash and her new release, Make You Sweat. I'll let her take it from here.

----

Cat says: "I totally want those boots."

Thanks, Catriana, for having me visit today!

Cat and I share a publisher, and I have had the honor of playing in the creative sandbox with her since we both participate (though for me, not often enough) in the Silver Flash project.

The group flash fiction prompts are a fun way to take a break from revisions and other working documents. Writing to a prompt someone else created can be an interesting challenge. As writers, we have a lot of things we can do for fun, or to challenge and improve our skills. Quite often this results in free reading for fans, and once in a while I wonder how much is too much when it comes to freebies. Does offering too much free seem desperate? Does it make readers wait for the next freebie instead of purchasing one of the professionally published works? Does it look desperate?

I honestly don’t have an answer for those questions, and I’m not sure anyone does. As a reader myself, I look for freebies to try out new authors. If I like the free stuff, I have no qualms about rushing off to the publisher’s site, or Are, to pay for another great story. I have to assume others have similar “rules”. Besides, those freebies are still fun, and less stress, than revisions for a contracted book.

So, if they’re fun, why did I admit I don’t participate in the Silver Flash prompts often enough? It is often enough for me, even if it’s not regular participation. My first freebie priority is CRANK, a fun little ongoing story about vampire hunting musicians. I add to it every week, and finding time for that can sometimes be a challenge all by itself. It is a passion, a writing exercise, and an offering for both new readers and fans who have supported me from the start. It will always be free online, even with I get around to releasing the first story arc in e-book format later this year (or maybe early next year).

What do you like, dear Readers? Do you enjoy freebies? Do they inspire you to download and read more? Maybe you avoid them because they haven’t been vetted and edited by a professional publishing house?

For both sides of the fence, here are two stories that I truly enjoyed writing:

CRANK (http://www.thecrank.wordpress.com/about)

And my newest release with Loose Id:

Make You Sweat (http://www.loose-id.com/Make-You-Sweat.aspx)

Blurb:

Ready for change, Tyler Pierce has the whole summer ahead of him when he flies to Sand Piper Beach to turn over a new leaf. Sun, swimming, exercise, he'll return home a new man, sexy and buff. Best of all, several states away from home and college, no one but his dad knows him, so he can muddle through the challenges of getting fit without friends laughing at him.

During his first visit to the fitness center, Tyler meets the sculpted and toned Cody Dawson, fitness instructor and sexy gay man. Not only does Cody help Tyler learn how to use the strength training equipment, but he crashes through Tyler's fantasies and lures him into bed.

Just a passing fling, Tyler decides. Cody, after all, could get any number of better looking men without even trying. Besides, the summer doesn't last forever and, too soon, Tyler will return to campus leaving Cody to the ex who wants him back. A summer fling can grow into something more, but it's up to Tyler to recognize if it's true love or just heated summer lust.

~*~

Thanks for reading!

Ciao,
Pia Veleno

http://piaveleno.com

069. Silver Flash pt 3

2011-08-09T21:00:00.000-07:00

It's time for another Silver Flash!

---------

How far was he willing to go to atone?

Valir became so lost in his own thoughts, he barely registered the heavy warmth at his side and lap. Instinctively, he threaded his fingers through blood red hair as Linri pressed closer, curled around his master. The familiar motion from childhood soothed the young noble and his thoughts felt less chaotic.

"The situation is too complicated to make a final decision now." Valir finally looked down at his friend resting on his lap with a smile. Bright golden eyes flickered as Linri blinked up at him and returned the gesture. With practiced hands, Valir brushed his fingers along the black metal of Linri's slave collar, tracing the golden runes etched in. His friend didn't flinch or even move, but his gaze was unreadable.

"Remember your promise."

Valir snorted. "Which one? I've made so many, to myself and others."

Still, Linri's gaze did not falter. "The one that matters."

Instead of answering right away, Valir glanced over at the empty fireplace. With the flick of the wrist, or a gentle whisper, he could have a roaring fire going if he so chose. If he so desired, he could take the small blade strapped to his side and slit his wrist, freeing Linri from his bindings as a slave with his blood. For all their words and efforts, his father and brother knew if Valir really wanted, he could tear them apart in the blink of an eye and take whatever he wanted from the Dur'liett house.

At almost eighteen years, Valir was one of the most powerful magic users in the country. That night with Jaxx, he had not only unlocked the powers of the Nether, but of the gods themselves. At twelve, he had done this, and at fifteen he had his powers sealed away. Forsaken them to pursue the blade.

Because he was a coward. A joke. A failure. The collar around Linri's neck and the fact that Jaxx still lived a life of a prisoner was the perfect evidence of his inability to be a real friend. Or man.

"They all matter," was Valir's eventual reply.

Any longer under the protective field and questions would begin to rise. Valir let the barrier drop after a few minutes while Linri shifted back to his animal form, padding the room to sniff for any traps or other surprises. All personal slaves were trained for this and the noble owed his life to his slave at least a hundred times over. Verrell would never admit to trying to kill his younger weakling of a brother, but most of the threats to Valir's life had Callie's - Verrell's personal slave - stench all over.

While Linri searched, Valir stocked the hearth with wood and soon the room was bathed in a warm amber glow. Keeping his hands busy helped his ever chaotic thoughts to focus. He couldn't hide forever. Sooner or later, he would need to act, or be tossed into noble obscurity.

-----------
That's it for today!

Check out the other flashers!

Chris Quinton (m/m)
http://chrisquinton.com

West Thornhill (m/m)
http://wthornhillauthor.blogspot.com/

Julie Hayes (m/m)
http://julielynnhayes.blogspot.com

Victoria Blisse (m/f)
http://www.victoriablisse.co.uk

Lindsay Klug (m/m)
www.ichbineinteufel.blogspot.com

Lily Sawyer (m/m)
http://lilysawyerbooks.blogspot.com/

Heather Lin (m/f)
http://heatherlin88.blogspot.com/

Ryssa Edwards (m/m)
http://www.ryssaedwards.net/blog/

068. Silver Flash pt 2

2011-08-02T21:00:00.000-07:00

It's time for another Silver Flash! Hope you enjoy! :)

----------

"Anyway," the slave continued "At the very least, I hear Lady Reine is excellent in the kitchen. Knowing your stomach, I'm sure this comes as good news. With the way you eat, I'm sure it'll be love at first digest!" With a sharp and startled cry, Linri deftly dodged a cushioned pillow flung at his head. "Did I offend?"

Valir turned to face his long time companion, ignoring the heat rising to his cheeks. He crossed his powerful arms over his chest and scowled. "Cheeky fox. I am a warrior, to keep my build I must eat for stamina. Not only that, but the suppressers..." he pulled the fabric of one sleeve back, revealing the runes and magical markings littering his skin. "A lot of my energy go into these markings."

Still, marrying Reine would bring him closer to Jaxx, who he had heard nothing of ever since that fateful day ten years ago. The terrible debt the Pol'deau family owed his would be erased, and Valir could finally make amends. His family would approve the marriage, because they had always wanted to make the powerful Pol'deau house a pawn in their game. The debt had helped, but a more solid hold would be ideal.

Valir often wondered if his old best friend hated him for everything that happened. He had abandoned magic, having the seals placed on his body, and turned to the sword, but his efforts to atone never felt enough.

Tendrils of black smoke lazily trailed up his arms, the thick of it shaping his hands into claws. The stench of sulfur stung his nose and burned his eyes. Sinister whispers crept along his consciousness with dark promises of power, and young Valir felt drunk with the excitement of their success.

"Valir." A warm, large hand settled on the nobleman's shoulder. Linri's thick brows were furrowed with concern, his head tilted in his strange manner that reminded Valir of an animal. "You have that look in your eyes, friend. Is it because of him?" his gaze wavered uncertainly for a moment, but Valir covered Linri's hand with his own.

"You'll always be my closest friend, Lin." With his free hand, Valir patted his friend's head. He smiled when Linri growled in mock irritation and moved away, flopping down on the floor with his legs crossed. "I was just thinking about maybe making arrangements to court Reine." he half-lied. "I've been trying so hard to atone for my mistakes and to figure out a way to free the Pol'deau family from ours...but I never thought of doing so by marriage."

"But it wouldn't work, right?" Linri rocked back and forth on his behind, hands locked on his ankles. "I mean, not unless you compete with your brother for heir. Otherwise, it's just trapping them even more."

A good point. Marrying Reine would do little to erase the debt unless Valir appealed to his brother once their father passed down the mantle. Unfortunately, he knew Verrell would never agree to such a thing. The man was as cutthroat and manipulative as their father. He had never once entertained the thought of going up against the First. A Second challenging his First was fairly common in their society, but Valir had never shown the...aptitude needed for what he would need to do to achieve such a goal.

-------

Check out these other flashers!

West Thornhill (m/m)
http://wthornhillauthor.blogspot.com/

Julie Hayes (m/m)
http://julielynnhayes.blogspot.com/

Chris
Quinton (m/m)
http://chrisquinton.com/

Victoria
Blisse (m/f)
http://www.victoriablisse.co.uk/

Lindsay
Klug (m/m)
http://www.ichbineinteufel.blogspot.com/

Lily
Sawyer (m/m)
http://lilysawyerbooks.blogspot.com/

Sui
Lynn (m/m)
http://suidlynn.blogspot.com/?zx=57a5d3d27a15dbfa

Catriana Sommers
http://catrianasmuse.blogspot.com/

Ryssa Edwards (m/m)
http://www.ryssaedwards.net/blog/

067. Silver Flash Pt 1

2011-07-26T21:00:00.000-07:00

Hey folks! It's that time for Silver Flash! This is my first time participating, so I'm pretty excited. I decided to go with this week's theme of "the color of night". I'm using Righteous Path for the storyline. I hope you enjoy!

----------

With a sigh, Valir casted his dark blue gaze out his large window, taking in the moons as they floated in their full glory along the night sky. Bathed in crimson, their glow coated the land in an eerie orange glow. Even the night clouds seemed to reflect the ominous mood, drifting carefully along. The Dur'liett noble shifted on his cushioned perch, adjusting the large and thick tome resting on his lap.

"The Twins bleed tonight." His rich voice cut through the silence of his bedroom. With only the moons's light to saturate the plush and well furnished room, shadows dominated. Valir turned his head, glancing at the darkness toward the far left corner. A smile spread along his full lips. "An dark and foreboding sign, they say."

Two golden orbs emerged, glowing softly. A massive red fox stepped out from the dark corner, its eyes narrowing. As it padded slowly toward its master, the body contorted. Bones cracked, muscles and sinew shifted as dusky red fur melted into skin. With a few grunts, the animal rose on two human legs as the rest of its body shifted. Paws became hands and blood-red hair sprouted from his head, short and layered to frame a lean and smooth face.

Animal was replaced by a tall, lean, and lithe frame of a human man. Tilting his head, the now-human stood before his master, completely naked save for a strange black collar around his neck. Placing his arm against his stomach, the shifter bowed from the waist.

"So they say." His voice came out a soft tenor, deceptively gentle and even playful. The slave walked over but kept a respectful distance, regarding Valir carefully. "I have news, Master Valir."

Valir closed the tome, ignoring the small cloud of dust that puffed out. He yawned and bent over to carefully set his burden on the thick carpeted floor before looking back up at his servant. "Good evening, Linri. So then, you were able to get the information?"

A nod. "The Pol'deau family will be attending the Annuel de Répondre in Oceanai. The eldest, Audric, has already taken his Passage à L'âge and so will not be participating in the tournament, as he is to be wed instead."

"Oh." The noble frowned, stroking his chin. "But if that is the case, they would not need to go this year..." his face lit up with hope "unless Jaxx..."

But Linri shook his head, shifting uncomfortably. "Forgive me, master, but his name was not even mentioned. Their young daughter, however, was mentioned as debuting this time around, as she is now of age." he smiled thinly "There were also talks of grooming her to become your fiancée. Lady Reine is only three Springs your junior."

"Linri, why are you -?" Valir cut himself off at the cool stare he was given. Master and servant stared at one another, communicating silently. After a moment, he sighed once again. "I see." Reluctantly, he lifted his right arm and pulled back the silk sleeve of his shirt. Dozens of magical runes were tattooed on his tanned skin and he brushed the pad of his index finger over one. The black ink took on a bright blue glow before disappearing. As it did, the air filled with magical energy, pressing on them heavily before fading.

"There. I think that should keep prying eyes and ears out. Now can you speak to me properly?"

Another bow, a bit mocking this time, and Linri chuckled. "Why? Master gets under your skin so well, I rather enjoy seeing your face scrunch up and turn red."

"Hmph."

-----------

Join me next week for another installment!

Julie Hayes (m/m)
http://julielynnhayes.blogspot.com

Lindsay Klug (m/m)
www.ichbineinteufel.blogspot.com

Heather Lin (m/f)
http://heatherlin88.blogspot.com/

Lily Sawyer (m/m)
http://lilysawyerbooks.blogspot.com/

Sui Lynn (m/m)
http://suidlynn.blogspot.com/?zx=57a5d3d27a15dbfa

Victoria Blisse (m/f)
http://www.victoriablisse.co.uk

Ryssa Edwards (m/m)
http://www.ryssaedwards.net/blog

West Thornhill

http://wthornhillauthor.blogspot.com/

066. Updates and Apologies

2011-06-26T13:39:00.000-07:00

First and foremost, I'd like to apologize for the lack of updates to the website and blog. My books were released, I've been blog hopping and I haven't done anything on here.

On the writing front, for a while now, I have been struggling with writer's block. I could write, but only bits at a time, not at all the length and speed I'm used to. I think a part of it is because I'm having to think harder and I'm consciously making an effort to improve. It is working, the quality of my writing has gone up, but it's taking longer. I won't lie, for a while I was a little depressed by my seemingly lack of progress, but I'm starting to get out of my funk.

Call on Me came out on the 18th and so far, reviews aren't so good. I'm not really discouraged, because it's a new release and being patient is key. If there are more negative reviews than positive overall after a good amount of time, I will take the most consistent complaints and make sure I try not to repeat them in the future. I'm keeping my fingers crossed for Destined.

Currently, I am actively working on Bound by Blood, book 2 in the Arcanus Series, and Her Failure, His Salvation, which I was going to submit for Silver's Halloween special, but I don't think I will. It's a little weird and I don't think it'll fit what they're looking for. If nothing else, I can submit it as a stand alone. Besides, I don't think I'll make it by the due date, not in the sense where I'd like it by the time I did.

Anyway, here's links to a few places I've been around this weekend:

Silver Publishing's Facebook - I posted pictures, answered questions, posted excerpts from Bound by Blood WIP, all sorts of stuff. Check it out.

Saturday Spotlight at IRM - I got the spotlight this weekend!

Guest Blogger at L.M. Brown's

Guest Blogger at Lindsay K's - Did a giveaway for a free copy of Destined. Go and learn a little bit about my world.

Fantasy Friday - Started a new story over at IRM.

Now Available!

Guest Blogger at Pender Mackie's - There was a contest over there for a free e-book copy of Destined, but no one commented D: Ah well.

Whoo hoo! Just got word, My Will is now available! This has just been a great week overall.

Anyway, since I haven't given you all too much, here's a snippet from Bound by Blood, book 2 in The Arcanus Series. It's a WIP, so please forgive any crappiness.

Bound by Blood

I am surrounded by incompetence.

With the wave of his hands, Kien Varian dismissed the two beautiful voluptuous women who had been sitting on either side of him on the plush red sofa chair in the social room. He blew them kisses and winked as the pale women waved goodbye, hips swaying. Alone, his warm amber eyes turned cold as he glanced down at the golden haired male kneeling in front of him.

"Markus Lotros," Crossing his leg, Kien raised a well manicured hand, stroking his goatee. "Care to repeat those words?"

The messenger winced despite the pleasant tone. "I saw the heir leave her party moments ago...with Lord Larian. I had heard you wished not to be disturbed, but the young master instructed I come to you."

Kien blinked. "Young master? Ah, you mean Eris." Eris Lotros, heir to the strongest clan in the vampire community. A bit older than the birthday girl tonight by a few years, but his interest was obvious. A good match, if any were worthy of his little Lili.

If she survives.

"Yes, Lord Kien." Markus' head remained lowered, fear making his shoulders shake. For a brief second, Kien contemplated on letting the Guardian relax before dismissing such a ridiculous notion. He did have a reputation to uphold.

"Guardian?" The Varian lord queried.

"Her whereabouts are unknown."

Right. Of course Reila couldn't be found. Unfortunately, he knew her alibi would probably be solid, the woman was a master at the art of lying and his uncle's mind wasn't as sharp as it used to be, so outright killing her was out. Not without causing a scene -- not anyone became a Guardian. Larian, however, could be dealt with as long as Kien found the girl in time. The man must be getting desperate to have become so sloppy with his ambitions.

"Be grateful your prince is an only child." Kien finally stood, straightening his ruffled blouse, and sighed, pinching the bridge of his nose. "Do you know where they were headed, Guardian? Stand up man, I swear I won't unleash my crazy on you."

Markus smiled nervously, smoothing out his silken gray vest as he stood. He threaded his pale hand through his short hair, clearing his throat. He briefly glanced behind him, as if a creature would burst from the flames of the marble fireplace at Kien's bidding. "I scouted them only for a small distance, but I believe they were headed to the Black Forest, my Lord. I dared not leave my Master's side for too long."

"Yes, because you're a proper Guardian." Kien crossed his arms, wiggling his toes on the plush fur rug beneath him. "Thank you for bringing this to my attention. Tell your young master the Varian clan owes the Lotros." Again. At the very least, his uncle would flay Larian for allowing such weakness to befall the clan.

If Liari survived. If not, Larian would ascend and Kien refused to bow to such incompetence.

That's what you get when you mate with humans, ignorant half-breeds who think they deserve something not their due. At least the old man came to his senses long enough to have Lili.

The Guardian cleared his throat again, clearly uncomfortable as he shifted balance on his feet. "Shall I...accompany you to retrieve the heir, my Lord? The Master instructed -"

"Right, and become indebted to you even more?" Kien waved a hand dismissively, ignoring how Markus' expression turned stony. The Varian had shown enough weakness tonight, any more and other clans would try and take advantage. "Return to your master, I'll take care of my darling cousin."

Still barefoot and clad only in his pale blue ruffled blouse and dark brown slacks, Kien strutted down the elaborate halls of the Varian estate. His long black hair hung loose along his shoulders, layers framing his angular face. His cold, calculating eyes now looked languid, thin lips quirked up in his trademark smirk. He couldn't recall the last time he had hunted and despite the circumstances, found himself a little eager.

The thick marble floors felt cool against his warm feet as he winked, blew kisses, and even gave some of the guests - male and female - a few bows. The grand hall, currently full of vampires from various clans, carried a beautiful song from the band that made Kien begin to dance with an invisible partner. How he loved music, the rhythm and smooth notes never failed to soothe. Guests were replaced by guards as he neared the massive black doors of the estate's front, none of the servants or other residents batting an eyelash at his behavior.

Kien was still humming the song he had heard to himself when Reila rounded the corner of the east wing in a jog, looking harried. Her short raven hair was mussed, dark brown eyes widening with surprise as she spotted him. Her black blouse was slightly unbuttoned along with her vest. She looked as if she had just awoken from bed. Heeled boots clicked loudly in the halls as she continued to close the distance.

"My Lord!" Her gaze shifted nervously, slender fingers trembling as she fumbled with her sword belt. Kien's smirk held, brows rising in inquiry. "Good evening, I was just going to -"

Her breathless words erupted into harsh screams. The guards stationed at the door and along the hall tensed as blood sprayed from Reila's body and she crumpled to the floor, curling in a fetal position while cradling her face. Precious life fluid poured from four deep gashes running from her abdomen up, pooling on the floor, soaking her clothes.

"Right." Kien smiled down at her, licking his now clawed fingers coated in her blood. Not a drop had landed on his clothes. Slowly, he tilted his head towards one of the guards who didn't look confused or torn about what he should be doing.

"Beat her and bleed her for a week." With his other hand, Kien pulled out a dark red handkerchief, his favorite, and wiped away the excess blood. "And when Larian returns, take him into custody. If he resists, feel free to beat him within an inch of his life." When the guard looked uncomfortable, Kien's smile turned menacing. "If you don't, I'll beat all of you within an inch of your life, revive you, and do it again until I get tired. We good on this?"

The guard nodded, crossing an arm across his chest and bowing. "Yes, my Lord!"

Reila's screams had by now died down to muffled sobs. Kien kneeled, gently pulling one of her arms to the side to get a better look at her face. Her left eye was closed and bleeding freely where one of his claws had sliced open her face. She whimpered at his touch, body shaking.

"Shh, don't be afraid." He crooned, brushing his fingers along her hairline. Tears streamed down her unblemished cheek. Kien smiled warmly, giving him a more boyish look as opposed to ruggedly handsome. "Everything will be fine as long as Liari returns unharmed."

He stepped over her body, tucking his kerchief back in his pocket as the door guards scrambled to open the smaller side door for him. Kien gave the more seasoned male guard a pat on the shoulder and a wink when he didn't flinch. This one was obviously used to Kien's antics and eccentricities. The armored male stood almost a head taller than Kien, interesting as he was a solid six foot two, with light brown hair and piercing hazel eyes. A Mixed, possibly, with those features.

"When's your shift over?"

Blinking at the strange question, the unnamed guard shook his head as if to clear his thoughts "I...five hours, sir. Both myself and Irinia." He gestured to the female guard a bit down the hall, her gazed fixed straight ahead.

"Good. I'll see you two in my chambers later." Patting the startled guard's face, Kien chuckled as he walked out into the main courtyard. Still barefoot.

065. New Release: Call on Me

2011-06-17T19:47:00.000-07:00

Call on Me is out! You can catch it on Amazon or at Silver's Website. It's on a lot more distribution channels than that, but I don't know them. Oh! you can get it from Goodreads too.

The 20th, you can find me at Nikki J. Markus's blog with another character interview.

So what have I been up to?

Well, I'm working on two projects: Bound By Blood, the second novel of the Arcanus Series and Her Failure, His Salvation, a potential Halloween short story submission for Silver.

You can catch a sneak preview of Bound By Blood for Fantasy Friday over at It's Raining Men. Hope you enjoy!

064. Six Sentence Sunday

2011-06-12T00:00:00.000-07:00

I didn't sign up on the official list, but I thought I'd share a bit from my upcoming release, Destined. Hope you enjoy! This is written in Naliel's POV (the lighter elf in the cover) about Sarnaiel. He's just woken up from...well, that would be telling, wouldn't it?

--------------

Thick brown lips were tilted up in a smirk familiar and well loved. The warm pressure he'd felt happened to be someone's arm. Could he be…dreaming? The person lying beside him surely could be none other than Sarnaiel.

"Hello." Oh yes, there was no one else with that amazingly sexy voice.

063. Special Guest: Ryssa Edwards!

2011-05-27T21:00:00.000-07:00

Today I have author Ryssa Edwards here, stopping by with an interesting interview. I'd like to thank Ryssa for agreeing to be a guest today, it's good to have you!

First, tell us a little about you and what you do.

By day I work for a humongous company. It pays the rent and the car note. By night, I walk dark alleys and follow people around. I don’t know why, but when I ask them to tell me their life story, they do. I call these people “characters”, and I write down what they tell me. It’s pretty scary in those back alleys, but the people I meet have done things that . . well. . I can’t tell all their secrets. But I keep going back for more. It’s fun. It keeps me off the streets of this world, but sadly, doesn’t always keep me out of trouble.

Why do you write?

Because if I didn’t, the voices in my head would drive me crazy. Ooops. I wasn’t supposed to say that out loud. No, really, this is why.

You know those old Bibles with beautiful color plates? When I was a little girl, about five, my uncle used to read me stories from the Old Testament from a Bible like that. I was too young to know anything about the book he was reading from except that it had really cool pictures. When I asked him where the pictures came from, he said they came from the stories. Secretly, I decided that when I was big enough, I’d draw pictures too, but I’d use words and maybe somebody would draw a picture from a story I wrote. And . . .here I am. Doing what I dreamed about when I was a little girl. How cool is that?

Is there a book you read over and over?

Being a writer is a little like being a magician and going to a magic show. If the magician on stage is really good, you applaud because you respect his skill, and you might even steal a technique or two, but you know where the rabbit in the hat comes from. With most books I read, I enjoy the writer’s talent and the pleasure of reading a well written story, but the thrilling magic you get as a reader is a little different when you write. With Peter Pan by J. M. Barrie, the magic’s always there, so I always go back.

What do you do when you get stuck?

My favorite description of wisdom is “whatever works at the moment.” When I get blocked, that’s what I do. Sometimes it’s playing solitaire on my computer. Sometimes it’s watching my “Aliens” DVD. Sometimes it’s just walking away and looking out a window. I wish I could tell you why these things work. I don’t know. I know most writing advice about getting stuck says “keep writing”. That doesn’t work for me. But the second I walk away, the answer’s right there, like it’s been lurking at the corner of my eye the whole time. *shrugs*

What’s your latest release?

I’m so glad you asked! I have four new releases coming up.

Dark Angel, All the Stars is part II two of my Immortal Pleasures series. It’s the story of the Archangel Lucifer and his centuries long love for Aeryn, a mortal. It’s coming out tomorrow!

The Moon House is a short story that will be part of the First Time for Everything Dreamspinner Press Daily Dose anthology. The first story will be out on June 1^st. The Moon House is the story of Samson, a carnival strong man who falls for Jace, a virgin.

Dreaming of a Kissing is a novel about Rafe, a college freshman who sets out to find a cure for his mother, and ends up falling in love with Kayne, a Wulf in training to be Alpha Wulf. This book is coming soon from Decadent Publishing.

Immortal Pleasures, Volume I (working title) is a print edition of the first two stories in my Immortal Pleasures series, Warrior Angel, Heart’s Desire and Dark Angel, All the Stars. This is coming soon from Silver Publishing.

I’m writing a secret project for the Male / Male Romance Discussion Group on Good Reads. It’s part of the Hot Days of July “Dear Author” letters. Stop by Good Reads and check out Hot Days of July!

Where can we find you on the web?

Facebook: facebook.com/RyssaEdwards

My Blog: http://ryssaedwards.blogspot.com

Good Reads (my Discussion Group):

http://www.goodreads.com/group/show/48013.Ryssa_Edwards_It_s_a_Romance_Thing

Good Reads (Hot Days of July Thread) – check out my story guy’s pic. . . yikes!

http://www.goodreads.com/topic/show/554139-dear-author-katie-taken-by-ryssa-edwards

Good Reads (my promo threads. Keep up with new releases here)

http://www.goodreads.com/topic/show/558453-ryssa-edwards

Catriana, thanks for having me!

Just in case you missed those awesome titles:

062. Special Guest: Julie Lynn Hayes!

2011-05-20T21:00:00.000-07:00

Today I have special guest Julie Lynn Hayes, here to promote to her new release For Love of Max. It's an honor to have her here visiting the Muse again, and I hope you all take the time to check out the contest going on at her blog. Ongoing until the end of the 21st! :)

Now then, enough of my babbling, here's Julie!

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When is an ending really a beginning?

When the story isn’t done, but the book is. Which means, in other words, it’s time for the sequel! Or sequels, as the case may be. Perhaps even a series.

When I started writing To The Max, I never doubted that there would be a sequel, just because there was so much I wanted to say about Max I knew that it wouldn’t fit into one book. Series seem to be the going thing now. People plan for them, the way they used to write single volumes. Now series are the rule, not the exception.

Is this a good thing or a bad thing?

Depends on the series, I think. There are some books so bad you’re glad that they end, while others draw you in so deeply you never want to let go of the characters. But as authors, it’s not so cut and dried, because authors tend to favor their own characters and creations, and very few see them as boring or badly written.

So the trick is to end one book, and yet keep it going at the same time, to pave the way for the next one. That means conflicts have to be kept alive, questions remain unanswered. And most of all, not all your characters can be dead. Especially not the protagonist.

Or can he?

Interestingly, I’ve seen it done. The protagonist in the Saw series, John Kramer, aka Jigsaw, is actually dead for most of the series. There is a very interesting timeline there, and contrary to popular belief, a rather intricate plot.

In some series, the central character to the next book is introduced in the book before. Take Sherrilyn Kenyon’s Dark Hunter series. In the first book, which is about Julian, we meet Kyrian of Thrace, who is the hero of the next one. And so on. Some series are based around families, some around packs. There are lots of ways to do it. Some have a common theme.

Gail Carriger’s excellent steampunk series begins with Soulless, then continues with Changeless, and Blameless, and soon we’ll have Heartless. Themes in similar titles.

How do you know whether or not to continue a story? Do you have something else to say? Are you reluctant to let your hero or heroine go? If so, that’s a good sign that just because you put The End on one novel, another isn’t lurking around the corner.

Max’s sequel comes out June 4^th – For Love of Max. Because life goes on, and stuff just keeps happening to my gay werewolf. Is this the end? Only time will tell!

Thanks for having me, Catriana! Thanks everyone for coming by! Leave a question or two, I’ll get back to you!

Want to see how Max began? To the Max is still available from Dreamspinner Press http://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/store/product_info.php?cPath=55_222&products_id=1758

The sequel can be found at Silver Publishing https://silverpublishing.info/product_book_info/coming-soon-c-2/for-love-of-max-p-287

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Blurb:

Life is truly beautiful! Richard actually asked me to marry him, do you believe it? Of course there’s a small hurdle we have to cross – namely that gay marriage isn’t legal here in Missouri. But it’s a start, right?

Things are looking up for us, now that I know the truth about Richard. Our careers are doing well, we’re blissfully happy together, and Mother has given us her blessing! My sister Diana is going through boyfriends like some people change clothes, I wonder if she’ll ever find Mr. Right? Cat’s cousin has turned out to be a real interesting character, and the most interesting thing is – he’s a werewolf! And more disturbing than that, I think that maybe my father (that shadowy figure who’s never figured in my life) might just be someone named Jason. It’s a long story.

Just when I thought I had things figured out, they change, and I find out that what I thought I knew was just so much nonsense. In other words – lies. Who can I trust? Other than Richard, of course. And what should I believe? And why does it seem like the world is trying to shake me out of my lycanthropic closet?

What’s a gay werewolf to do?

-------------

Excerpt:

Now, where were we? Oh yes, Richard and I have our lips locked together like a couple of love-starved fools, and we're crying and laughing at the same time, and I've just agreed to marry him….

Yes, I did say marry, and I know there are those who will look upon us askance. Gay marriage is far from an accepted lifestyle in this country, even in this supposedly enlightened day and age. In fact it is not only frowned upon, but largely banned. And mostly by people who are afraid of us. Why? Good question. I won't even get into religious ethics, or a discussion of the Bible, nor Christian precepts. Let me just say that disliking or hating someone on the basis of their sexual orientation is just as wrong as hating them for the color of their skin, or for their religious beliefs. And forbidding people to legally wed for the same reason is simply wrong. Where do you draw the line? Mixed race couples, mixed religion couples? What happened to loving one another, regardless of who they are? We are not sinners, we are simply human….

Anyway, we are here and warm… and touching, and loving, and all of the bad air has been expelled, and all that is left is the love in our hearts, the love we bear for one another, which envelops us and cradles us gently. Now we truly begin….

Principessa, our darling King Charles spaniel and our only child, is running circles around us now, excited by our excitement. Her daddies are together again, and very obviously happy. We break the kiss to bestow caresses on our baby. She clambers in between us and we manage to cuddle around her.

"Max, I'm so sorry…"

"Shhh." I lay a finger against his lips. "No apologies, no regrets. Just us and the future. Our future. Together."

He nods solemnly. "I'll never leave you again, Max," he swears, "I'll never disappear without a word, I promise. I'm yours for as long as you'll have me."

"And I am yours," I echo, "'til death do us part."

Our lips come together with soft sighs, and sensual shivers that run between us like electrical charges. We haven't touched at all since the ill-fated night of the last full moon, and the undischarged desire we bear for one another is enough to jump-start a dead car battery.

"I've missed you so much," he murmurs into my lips, "I need you, Max, I always will…."

"And I need you Richard," I reply softly. "Nights without you are far too long… and lonely…."

He moves closer now, his tongue seeking and receiving permission to enter my mouth, his fingers winding through my hair. We are content to let our lips do all the talking. No need to rush, we have all the time in the world—now that we are together again, never to be parted. Our eyes locked in mutual admiration. Our hearts bound in mutual bliss. Our puppy becomes bored with us, and our apparent inactivity, and settles down for a nap, watching us with those big, brown spaniel eyes. We stretch out together in the grass, oblivious to what we might be doing to our three-piece suits. Stains are made to be removed, are they not?

He rolls me over to take the dominant position above me—I love when he does that, for just between us he does dominate and I do tend to submit—it's simply the natural order of our lives. He catches my wrists in his strong grasp, pulling them over my head, holding them against the soft grass, showing me who’s in control—not that I don't know that already.

"Tell me what Max wants." He rubs against me suggestively; the material separating us only serves to enhance the friction between our hardening cocks in a delightfully maddening way.

"Max wants Richard," I respond promptly, predictably. "Max wants Richard to come back home, where he belongs… in Max's bed… their bed…."

"Our bed," Richard echoes, licking my chin softly, squirming against me.

God, I want him so badly.

"And by the way, who's been sleeping in Richard's bed while he's been gone?"

"Not the wolf," I chuckle softly, "that would be Rachel. She's been staying with me. I let her have the bed and I'm in the library, on the couch. All alone…."

"Not tonight, sweet thing." He moves his tongue along my jaw line, sending chills all through me. "I hope Rachel doesn't mind, but she is officially dispossessed."

"She won't mind, now she can go back to Mark. I'm sure he'll be happy, too."

"I'm sure," he replies. "Max, you wanna take a shower?"

My cock twitches at his suggestion. "I think we can do that." I attempt to maintain an air of casualness, but I fail—miserably. I’m far too excited to be suave and detached.

He brushes his fingertips lightly over my cheeks. "Max could use a shave too," he observes. "I can do that for him, if he likes?"

If he likes? I purr warmly at his touch. Max the recluse hasn't been as diligent as he should have been in keeping the five o'clock shadow at bay. Not that it's much of a shadow, my hair is too light for that, but being a wolf does have its disadvantages. One of them is a tendency toward hirsuteness. But this works out, 'cause I love the way Richard handles a straight razor—deftly, surely, and very, very sensually. I’m about to tell him so, but Swan Lake begins. Damn, someone has horrible timing.

I try to ignore it, but some people don't take a hint.

"Max, go ahead and get it, they'll just call back," my lover points out, releasing my hands. With a sigh, I squirm, raising my hips so that I can pull the phone from my pocket.

"Hello?"

"Max?" It's Juliet. Interruptus maternus. "You were supposed to call me…."

------------------

Want to know more about Julie and her works? Try these links!

My blog: http://julielynnhayes.blogspot.com
My website: www.julielynnhayes.com
My facebook: http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=527332074
My Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/3442231.Julie_Lynn_Hayes
My Publishers:
Silver Publishing: http://silverpublishing.info/index/typefilter/book_authors/book_authors_id/88
Wicked Nights: http://wickednights.info/?page_id=361
Dreamspinner Press: http://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/store/index.php?cPath=55_222

Thanks for stopping by, Julie, it's been a pleasure!

061. Updates

2011-05-19T00:03:00.000-07:00

First of all, I'd like to apologize for the delay on the Theme Wednesday situation. Call on Me was approved by Silver Publishing, so I was working on edits. I've also been under a bit of a writing funk, which hindered my muse. I promise I'll finish the Theme Wednesdays soon.

Both Destined and Call on Me are available for pre-order on Silver's website! I'm extremely excited about this. Both books are also on Goodreads. I've updated the blog to reflect everything so far, including more information on the Arcanus Series as a whole. The story has bumped up from 5 books to 7. Woot!

Catriana.net is up and live! A beautiful layout, some free reads, and more to come! The website needs to be updated a bit, but I'll be on that this weekend.

I'm holding an art contest! Lots of neat prizes, including signed copies of Destined! Updates for the contest can be read here.

Special Note: If you pre-order any of my books, send a copy of the invoice (including an address) and I will send you a signed copy of the cover! Please put in the e-mail what you'd like the note to say. Keep it short, please. Send all e-mails to catriana (at) gmail (dot) com. For print versions of Destined, please stand by for pre-ordering information.

So yes, I've been a busy bee! Take care!

060. Delayed Theme Wednesday

2011-05-05T00:31:00.000-07:00

Apologies. I had a few doctor appointments today and ended up crashing, so Theme Wednesday will be up Friday while I work on those requests and Fantasy Friday for IRM. Sorry about this folks!

059. Request Tuesday!

2011-05-03T05:30:00.000-07:00

It's Tuesday, meaning it's request time for Theme Wednesday!

How it works: I have a list of characters I will write about. Commenters can pick one of these and choose a theme. I will write a short (up to 500 words) based on the theme you've chosen!

Rules:

No smut. It doesn't mean I won't write it, however. I'll make sure to mark a story if I get the urge to write something M.
Try to keep it something simple, since 500 words is the limit.
I'll be taking only the first four commenters unless I feel like doing more.
One slot per person.
'Free For All' just means whatever I feel like doing. So if none of the characters appeal or you just want to post a random theme, feel free to choose the Free For All Option if available.
Even if I post a pairing, you can request a solo theme for the characters listed.
Solo characters listed are that way because I don't want to write a pairing. That may or may not change depending on how I feel when I write it.
I reserve the right to refuse a request or ask you to change it if I feel the theme is too complicated/what have you.

This event will go on the entire day. If you already see 4 commenters, still post your theme if you have one. You never know, I might just do it anyway!

Reminder: You don't choose the pairing/characters, I do. Requesters only provide the theme. Please remember that for Free For Alls, because it applies to that as well.

Your Selection!:(I may have them listed as a pairing, but if you want them solo, just say so)

Original: Lavern/Rhiannon, Briae/Verinel, Lunaria/Kard, Viron, Free For All
Fandom: Naruto- (SasuNeji, ShikaSasu, SasuHina, NejiHina), Slayers (Zel/Ame), A:TLA (Zutara)

Slots: (FILLED)

Phantomzstar - Cooking with Tomatoes (SasuNeji)
Essenceofthedark - Games (ShikaSasuNeji)
Waka-sensei - Gloom (ShikaSasu)
Since no one clamed this, I'm going to do a Free for All.

058. Drabble

2011-05-01T12:13:00.000-07:00

I needed to get this out of my head. I have a new character for Righteous Path, his name is K'tolin Ariissan. I had a dream about him and now he exists. Yay!

In any case, one of the themes in Righteous Path is Linri's status as a slave. As the years go on and Linri finds more and more reasons to want to be free, he and Valir, his master's relationship becomes strained. When Linri meets K'tolin, the young fox shifter falls head over heels in love, and the feelings are returned. However, it's a bit too much for Linri, who has never wanted anything for himself. It's a bit complicated, but I'm working on the details now. I hope to have a chapter or two finished by the end of this week.

Enjoy my bit of madness.

-------------

"If you had been given to me as my slave," K'tolin murmured in Linri's ear, his fingers gliding along the fox shifter's jaw. "I would free you, and ask you to be my mate."

Linri turned, words threatening to burst from his mouth, but he was silenced as the other male framed his face with his hands, leaning forward to press their lips together. His first kiss tasted of the ocean and warmth and Linri gladly leaned in, uncaring of how uncomfortable the rocks were beneath him, or how he could swear something was biting at his toes in the water. He loved Valir, his master, but this...he knew what he felt now was a different love.

For the first time in his seventeen years of living, Linri wished he was free. A reason had never presented itself until now, and he understood what the fox woman had meant years ago.

"You should be bound to no man. No Shifter should have to serve humans, we all deserve to be free."

To have wants and desires outside of his master's influence felt wrong and selfish, Valir had treated him like a friend, his best friend. Guilt hit him hard and he pushed his new love away, quickly getting up on his feet.

"I'm sorry." Linri began to back away, thinking K'tolin would be unable to follow. A foolish notion, as he was a Shifter, and obviously had two forms. He watched with intense fascination as the other male slowly slid out of the water, face contorting.

The gills around K'tolin's neck and sides retreated, his nose became more prominent, even his eyes began to bear more of a human-like look to them. Scales melted into skin, his long fin split into legs and slightly webbed feet. A smirk emerged as K'tolin stepped up onto the rocks, blue and green skin gleaming in the sunlight. With his hand, he pulled back his layered wiry hair, still thick and stringy on the surface.

"Did not think I could land-walk?" he asked, sounding very amused. He continued to move closer to Linri, even as the fox backed up. Linri swallowed, in awe by the sight before him.

K'tolin was beautiful, no matter what form he was in. Linri wanted to kiss the other boy and run away at the same time.

"I should go. I'm sorry...I should..."

"Linri, wait." K'tolin held up a hand and stopped walking, pale eyebrows furrowing. "I'm sorry. I was teasing you before, but I didn't realize..." he sighed, looking away. "My people don't have slaves, so I didn't understand. Please don't leave just yet. I wasn't trying to scare you. Please. Stay just a little longer."

057. Updates!

2011-04-28T23:44:00.000-07:00

Well, this week I will not be participating in Six Sentence Sunday, mostly because I need to figure out just what exactly I'd like to continue the story with. I do plan on working on Rhiannon and Lavern's story, hopefully a good 1000 words every week or two weeks.

I've been really enjoying doing Theme Wednesdays, thank you to everyone who has participated so far.

There's another Fantasy Friday up of Seer and Dreamer. I hope you all give it a look see and tell me what you think! I'm trying to work on imagery and showing, not telling. I find this to be my greatest challenge, for the simple fact my mind is weird. I can tell you what I see in my head, but as for deep backgrounds, and pretty imagery, I actually have to put solid effort into making those things form. These are not things initially in my mind, I have to make them appear, give them form. At the moment, showing, not telling, is my biggest vice.

I'm holding an art contest for the upcoming release of Destined. The deadline is June 30th, 2011. You can win a free copy of my book, among other things! Hosted on deviantArt.

My website has finally gotten a facelift! Please feel free to stop by Catriana.net! There will be more content forthcoming, as well as more information on the Arcanus Series. The plan is to hopefully be able to host an ArcanusWiki with all the information bouncing around in my brain.

And finally, I received the final copy of Destined a few days ago. I cannot express how excited I am about this. 8 more weeks and my book will be released! The print copy will be rather thin in comparison to the other series, but Destined really had been designed as a side story to begin with. Regardless, I am happy with it and will continue working on Arcanus' re-write. Lots of stuff to doooo!

Thank you all so much for following me, or adding me on Twitter and Facebook, or just by being awesomely awesome. ♥

056. Theme Wednesday!

2011-04-27T20:14:00.000-07:00

Gosh, I suck so hard. I'm sorry for these being late, but at least it's still Wednesday?

Theme 1: First Time
Series: Naruto
Pairing: ShikaNejiSasu
Rating: M
Words: 460
Requester: Essenceofthedark

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The first time the three of them tried to kiss each other at the same time, the moment had been filled with awkward and embarrassed glares. Shikamaru had pulled out a book on techniques which Neji had gone over with him. Sasuke had rolled his eyes and left, Sharingan flashing as he claimed he would return within an hour.

None of them asked where he had gone or what he had seen, but whatever Sasuke did had been effective. They had a lot of fun that night afterwards.

One spring, Neji had walked out of their shared bedroom for the first time with nothing but one of Sasuke's oversized Uchiha shirts on. Both Shikamaru and Sasuke had stared as the fabric swayed around Neji's waist, giving them glimpses of the Hyuuga's firm ass.

Neji found himself shouting in outrage as he was jumped in the kitchen, claiming he had just wanted a cup of tea.

The first night the three of them had decided to go 'all the way', they had been all thumbs. Awkward, but heated touches had led to some pained grunts and pleasurable moans. None of them had been novices in foreplay, but things were different when a third person was involved and the desire to have all to reach their peak near the same time gave them a challenge. Eventually, one slid into another into another, their thrusts lacking rhythm and harmony.

Still, they took their time and patience was rewarded as they writhed, moaned, even shouted into the night. Fingers dug into skin, leaving red welts. Muscled rippled around thick cocks, surprised gasps filling the heated room as the pleasure became too much and they found their release, eyes rolling back, bodies shaking. For the first time the three males had held someone tenderly in their arms, and didn't at all feel weak or ashamed.

To all of their surprise, Sasuke had been the first one to utter those three little words years later. The event had occurred shortly after a rough but thorough tryst. These typically came about when a mission had become too dangerous, or when one of them ended up being severely injured. Sasuke always reacted the worst, always insisted on being in the middle, to give and take. Words were never spoken, only grunts, growls, and curses dominated until after they were sated.

The three of them had been lying on the bed, Sasuke's arms around both Neji and Shikamaru when he had uttered the words. At first, the other two had thought they imagined it, but when all Sasuke did was close his eyes and they looked at each other and found confirmation...smiles emerged.

Then they bent down and whispered for the first time in Sasuke's ear, "I love you."

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Theme 2: Gossips
Series: Naruto
Pairing: Mitsuaki Uchiha/Tokou Akimichi (OC's)
Rating: K
Words: 564
Requester: Elise

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"I hate girls." Uchiha Kakan flopped down in his chair, crossing his arms with a scowl and looking ever so much like his father at the age of twelve. "All they do is gossip. If they spent half of their time training instead of talking about boys they'd put all of us to shame."

Kachiki, the younger twin of the two, laid on their shared bed sideways, looking up at their ceiling. "You always start on this tirade every time we visit Konoha." He yawned and with the flick of his wrist, he began twirling a kunai by the hooped handle on his finger. "Just because they chase you down here..."

"They chase you too!"

Grinning, Kachiki sat up, tilting his head to the side. "No they don't, because I'm better at hiding than you."

"What was that 'Chiki?" Kakan bolted out of his chair, glaring. "You're not better than me at anything, you poser!"

Not even perturbed, Kachiki shrugged. "I'm better than you at keeping quiet."

"Oy!" The oldest sibling, Mitsuaki, walked out of the bathroom, drying his hair and clad in only his pants. "Stop fighting. Otousan and okaasan told you two to behave this trip. You're genin now, act like it."

The twins stuck their tongues out at him "Says the guy who's just gonna go make out with his giiiirlfriend." they said in unison, snickering when Mitsuaki's face turned bright red and he began to splutter.

"Hey 'Chiki," Kakan moved over to the bed, nudging his brother and giving him a knowing grin. "Do you smell that?"

Tilting his head, Kachiki sniffed the air. "Ooo, smells like that fancy stuff aniki only wears when he's going on a hot date."

"Talk about obvious. If Konoha ever got invaded, aniki would be screwed if he tried to surprise attack anyone."

"Would you two cut it out?" Mitsuaki took a threatening step towards the twins, who let out squawks of mock fear and hugged each other.

"Oh no! Oniisan is angry!" Kachiki cried, burying his face in his twins' shoulder.

"Don't hurt us aniki! We're so sorry!" Kakan pretended to shake in fear and Mitsuaki rolled his eyes.

"I should have remained an only child." The oldest sibling muttered, quickly getting dressed. He wasn't terribly bothered, since he had his ways of getting back at them. Oh, how surprised they'll be when they go to the training grounds tomorrow and find their ruthless father waiting for them, not their kind and more patient niisan. Brats.

The door to their hotel room opened then and Hinote, the youngest and only female Uchiha, barged in with Akimichi Tokou walking gingerly behind her. Just having finished sliding on his boots, Mitsuaki blushed at the sight of his beautiful girlfriend in her pink sundress. She had actually dressed up for their date.

He ignored the cat calls and whistles from his brothers as he quickly closed the distance, his arm wrapping around Tokou's waist. She looked a mixture of confused and embarrassed and he shook his head when she looked up at him for answers.

"They're being dumb. Let's go."

Just before they reached the door, Kakan nudged his twin again as Hinote jumped up on the bed to join them. "Just wait till we get back and tell Hineri about this one."

Mitsuaki stopped at the door frame and turned to them slightly, smirking.

"Gossips."

----------------------------

Theme 3: Cooking as a form of seduction
Series: The Arcanus Series
Pairing: Rhiannon/Lavern
Rating: M
Words: 655
Requester: Windrider1

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If there was one thing Rhiannon had learned about her husband after years of marriage, it was his love for sweet things. This love superseded just about anything and everything, including annoying meetings and traveling to other villages in Liunos lands. Lavern's presence was constantly being exploited by everyone but his wife, and Rhiannon was quickly growing tired of waking up to an empty bed.

She would have her husband this day, even if she had to resort to shady tactics.

Sure enough, thirty minutes after she started fixing up her sweet bait, Lavern's head peeked into the kitchen. She picked up her mixing spoon, her lips spreading in a knowing smirk as he sniffed the air before walking inside. He found her quickly, his rich blue eyes taking in her attire - a brown and cream silk robe - before snapping up to the spoonful of fudge she held. He swallowed thickly when Rhiannon's tongue darted out, ever so slowly licking up a bit of the enticing mixture. She closed her eyes and let out a small moan. She almost laughed out loud when she heard him swear under his breath.

"Everis avlaast, kinna. You are perfection, my love." Lavern closed the distance, his hands settling on her wide hips, pressing close. His Quivali accent sounded thick and husky. He leaned forward, tilting his head and lapping lightly at the fudge on her spoon. "Mmm, dark chocolate. You already have some in the oven, I smelled the first batch. You spoil me."

"Ha!" Rhiannon pushed at his chest, putting the spoon back inside the bowl. "These snacks are for the young ones, not for you. Don't you have a meeting or a trip to attend to? You don't want to be late."

Lavern's eyes widened, his jaw dropped in clear astonishment. Rhiannon turned her back to him to attend the food so as to hide her grin. She loved making him flustered and getting him to behave like a struggling teenager. Made her ego soar to know she held such power over a man who was four centuries her senior.

"I see." He said eventually, closing the distance once more. Lavern grabbed her, pulling her flush against his hard frame. She squirmed and wiggled when his breath fanned her neck but he held her hips in a firm grip. "Well, I suppose a break is in order. Besides, I do so love chocolate..." He purred the word, trailing his tongue up along her neck. "And there is so much to taste, it might take a while. A few weeks at least."

With a spin, she wrapped her arms around his neck, her dark gaze bright with excitement. "Truly? No 'emergencies' or..."

"I will speak to my current Second, he has been trained well, I trust him to handle affairs. Forgive me kinna, for neglecting you and the children. I get so caught up in everything, I do not realize how much time has passed." Leaning back, his fingers brushed along her cheek and jaw line.

He smirked then, pressing her against the kitchen counter, his warm hands sliding underneath the parting fabric of her robe. Kissing her neck, one hand cupped a full breast, kneading. Rhiannon gasped, arching her back as she threaded her fingers through his long silver hair.

"Wait, someone will see...the bedroom..." She could signal to one of the cooks to check up on the fudge, had planned for that, really.

But Lavern had other ideas. Pushing the bowl to the side, he lifted her up onto the counter, his kisses trailing lower. He spread out the fabric along her legs and gave her a wicked smile.

"I'm not leaving until I've had my fill of chocolate. Since what you are making is for the boys...I shall have to take from my personal source." Licking his lips, he untied her robe, exposing her fully. "And I like to savor my treats."

-------------------------------

Theme 4: Girls
Series: Naruto
Pairing: ShikaSasu
Rating: M
Words: 565
Requester: Spammishrice

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Shikamaru's reluctant groan filled his bedroom as he slowly began to climb out of the dregs of sleep and into the waking world. Damn, but he had been having a good dream too. His head throbbed - too much sleep - and he tried to salvage the fading pieces of his wonderful dream.

Someone had been molesting his body, but he had been unable to see the person, just hands. Warm and strong, sliding over his chest, up his inner thighs, fingers brushing along his aching cock. Teasing, just the way he liked it. For all his laziness and desire to avoid troublesome things, Shikamaru learned he had a bit of a sadistic streak behind closed doors.

Another groan escaped his lips and he dipped his hand underneath the sheets to relieve the tension in his boxers...

Only to hear a gasp as his hand brushed along a cock, but not his cock. His eyes snapped open.

"What the fu -" Shikamaru's outraged cry was cut off as a hand slapped over his mouth. Then he watched as Uchiha Sasuke put his free hand to mouth, making a shushing motion.

"Do not. Scream." Sasuke leaned forward, dark gaze intense and heated. "You'll alert the horde." Ever so slowly, Sasuke removed his hand, which had been more than enough time for Shikamaru to gather his wits about him.

"What are you doing here?" The Nara hissed. He needed to focus on something that made sense to his poor brain, because what just happened brought up too many questions he didn't want answers to.

"Hiding." Sasuke didn't move, didn't turn his gaze away from Shikamaru, which felt disturbing. The two were very close in his bed, so close Shikamaru could feel Sasuke 'poking' him. The bastard didn't even have the audacity to look ashamed, while Shikamaru tried every method he could think of to keep his face from becoming a blazing inferno.

He didn't want to admit it felt good.

"Hiding." Shikamaru repeated, tone flat.

Sasuke rolled his eyes and sighed. "It's Thursday." As if Shikamaru should have known what the hell that meant. When all the Uchiha received was a blank stare, he snorted. "The fanclub has 'Tie Him Up Thursdays', or THUP. If they catch me, they tie me up and..." Sasuke shuddered and unconsciously pressed closer to Shikamaru. He almost jerked away, but Sasuke's warmth rooted him to the spot.

Without thinking, Shikamaru found his arms wrapping around Sasuke, basking in the natural heat and comfort the other male brought. The Uchiha smelled of the woods with a hint of a natural spicy musk. Fingers slid underneath his shirt, Sasuke's hands began exploring his stomach and chest, just like in the dream. Shikamaru shivered.

"Why here?" Shikamaru gave himself a mental pat on the back for sounding normal.

Sasuke shrugged. "No one would look here."

A good point. Still... "But why are you...uh...touching me?"

Sasuke's gaze shifted to Shikamaru's lips. He moved closer, until their bodies were flush and tilted his head, lips hovering just inches away from Shikamaru's. "You didn't seem to mind earlier." Sasuke's hands drifted lower, delving underneath silk boxers. "Do you want me to stop?"

Shikamaru's breath caught and he moved to close the distance. He would probably regret this once the blood rushed back from his dick to his head where it belonged but for now...

"No. Don't stop."

055. Request Tuesday

2011-04-26T02:45:00.000-07:00

No smut. Let's keep this PG 13 for now.
Try to keep it something simple, since 500 words is the limit.
I'll be taking only the first four commenters unless I feel like doing more.
One slot per person.
'Free For All' just means whatever I feel like doing. So if none of the characters appeal or you just want to post a random theme, feel free to choose the Free For All Option if available.
Even if I post a pairing, you can request a solo theme for the characters listed.
Solo characters listed are that way because I don't want to write a pairing. That may or may not change depending on how I feel when I write it.
I reserve the right to refuse a request or ask you to change it if I feel the theme is too complicated/what have you.

Original: Lavern/Rhiannon, Briae/Verinel, Konane/Rajasi, Free For All
Fandom: ShikaSasu(Naruto), SasuNejiShika, SasuNeji, M!Hawke/Fenris(Dragon Age 2), SasuHina(Naruto), Mitsuaki/Tokou(Naruto OC's)

Slots: (FILLED)

Essenceofthedark - First Time (SasuNejiShika)
Elise - Gossips (Mitsuaki/Tokou)
Windrider1 - Cooking as a form of seduction (Lavern/Rhiannon)
Spammishrice - Girls (ShikaSasu)

054. Six Sentence Sunday pt 11

2011-04-23T21:00:00.000-07:00

For a split second, Rhiannon almost gave into his charm before remembering all of the hassle and pain she had to go through just to get this far. Shaking off his words and the way they made her chest tighten, she crossed her arms and scowled. "I want an explanation as to why you've been avoiding me."

Lavern's expression sobered and he sighed, shaking his head. "I apologize, the matter had been taken out of my hands due to...circumstances. I will try to explain quickly, before the shock of your outburst wears off and the council comes hunting me down."

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Okay, so I'm really wanting to get into this story on a more extended level, meaning after this, I'll probably be changing up the Six Sundays to another story line. If you wish to continue reading about this couple, keep an eye on this journal, since I'll be posting longer excerpts on either a weekly or bi-weekly basis.

I hope you've enjoyed this mini story so far, thank you for all the wonderful commetns, I've loved all of them!

053. Theme Wednesday!

2011-04-20T06:50:00.000-07:00

Whew! Some long ones this time! Got a little carried away. I think I miss writing fanfic, lol!

Theme#1: 10 Year Anniversary
Series: Naruto
Pairing: ShikaSasu
Rating: T
Words: 560
Requester: Spammishrice

Surprisingly enough, Sasuke found the sunshine fitting today of all days as he laid with his new lover in their bed. Last night, the one night Sasuke would insist on being alone had been the one night Shikamaru hadn't listened. Although the meddlesome Nara was not the first to bother Sasuke on this special occasion, he had been the first to truly get under his skin besides Naruto.

"Cut the bullshit, Uchiha, we both know you don't really want to be alone. You just want the right person to step up."

How true. For a while, Sasuke had believed Naruto to be 'that person', because the blond haired idiot knew him, had known him. In the end, the companionship his friend offered wasn't the type Sasuke wanted. No, deep down inside, where even he had hidden the feelings away under lock and key, Sasuke had known he had wanted more. What he coveted, no one could give, not really, because the Uchiha wasn't even sure if he had wanted the sort of feelings and emotions that accompanied.

"And you're the right person, Nara?"

"I don't know. You tell me."

"I thought you hated me."

"Tch. You really gonna do this song and dance? You're like a woman sometimes...troublesome. Why can't anything be simple with you?"

"I've never been a simple person."

"You were once, when we were kids. I liked you then. Before...you know."

"...Hn."

'I had liked you too' Sasuke had wanted to say, but those words were beyond him even now. Shikamaru, Hinata, even Chouji. Back then, when things had been uncomplicated, when he had just been another kid wanting to impress his father and be like his big brother, he had liked all of them. Then the massacre happened, yet none of them had blamed him for his actions. Not really.

Hinata and Chouji had been eerily understanding of his cut off, even though he had played with them separately. Shikamaru had snorted and shrugged him off, to which Sasuke had been grateful. He had wanted the others to hate him, not to give him sad smiles of understanding.

Even now, years later, Shikamaru offered no sympathy. Only companionship, should Sasuke desire, and strict honesty not disguised as disdain or patronizing.

"Tomorrow makes ten years...since that day."

"Yeah. I know. You always do this the night before."

"I killed him, Shika."

"You killed a lot of people."

"I killed him. Because I loved him. Because it hurt. I sacrificed everything, for nothing."

"It wasn't for nothing, and saying it like that is kind of like giving him a 'fuck you' for all his efforts."

"I fucked up all of his efforts."

"Yeah, pretty royally too. So make it up to him."

"...How?"

"By letting go. Moving on. Wasn't that what he wanted?"

Sasuke looked outside his window, a small smirk emerging at the sun as it continued to climb higher in the sky. Shikamaru, nestled at his side, let out a loud snore before rolling over on his back, absently scratching at his stomach as he slept on. Sasuke glanced at him once, his arm still around Shikamaru's shoulders, before looking back outside at the sun shining for the first time in ten years on this particular day.

"Moving on. Wasn't that what he wanted?"

"I guess it was, huh niisan?" Sasuke whispered and closed his eyes.

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Theme #2: Tomatoes
Series: Naruto
Pairing: ShikaSasu
Rating: T
Words: 315
Requester: Essenceofthedark

"So, I heard you like tomatoes?" Shikamaru asked, grinning as he held the juicy red object in front of his boyfriend's face. Sasuke sat at his desk, homework in front of him, glasses pushed up against his nose. With a sigh, he removed the glasses and leaned back in his chair, giving Shikamaru a dull look.

"And?" he reached to snatch the tomato from Shikamaru. Having anticipated the move, Shikamaru moved out of range, taking a few steps back. Now he had Sasuke's full attention, the other male now standing and slowly closing the distance. "What of it?"

"Nothing." Shikamaru continued to back away as Sasuke moved closer. "Just heard you'd do anything for one of these."

"You heard wrong."

"And yet you keep creeping closer." With a sly grin, Shikamaru bolted, the Uchiha hot on his heels as they ran throughout their apartment. Laughter and smack talking ensued as Shikamaru ducked and dodged a determined Sasuke.

Minutes later showed a triumphant Sasuke sitting on top of Shikamaru's back on the couch, eating his tomato. A bite later he paused, looking down at his disgruntled boyfriend. "So, what have we learned today?"

Shikamaru snorted. "That you're a sadist?"

"Never come between a man and his treasure." Sasuke corrected, licking the juices off his fingers as he ate the remainder of his cherished snack.

"Hm. Too bad." With a yawn, Shikamaru tried to make himself as comfortable as he could with Sasuke sitting on him. "Because you see, that wasn't the only tomato I had. In fact, I got a stash of cherry tomatoes I was gonna give to you, but since you..."

His sentence went unfinished as he suddenly found himself on his back and Sasuke in his face, dark eyes narrowing. "Where?"

A wide, knowing smirk crossed Shikamaru's features. Bait accepted, plan complete. "Well, that depends. What are you willing to do for them?"

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Theme #3: Hurry Up
Series: Naruto
Pairing: ShikaSasu
Rating: T
Words: 696
Requester: Wakasensei

"Tch." Sasuke's crimson eyes narrowed as he looked down the hall. "Hurry the hell up, Nara." he called from over his shoulder, his fingers twitching dangerously close to his katana. "They're coming. I can hear them."

Grumbling, Shikamaru continued to shuffle through drawers and cabinets of a very expensive looking study. "You said that five minutes ago." Then to himself, "It'd help if they had given us more information than 'the package is in his study'. This room is huge!"

"Less bitching, more looking!" The Uchiha hissed, the tomoe of his Sharingan beginning to spin. "It can't be that hard to find a damn box, Nara."

"Then you look for it!" he almost threw his hands up in the air. He hated being partnered with Sasuke Uchiha, the two of them never got along. "Don't you have that eye thing that lets you see through walls?"

"That's the Byakugan. Jackass." Sasuke actually sounded offended.

"Whatever." Shikamaru had no desire nor the time to try and soothe over the Uchiha's over inflated ego. "Man, I knew this mission would be annoying the moment they told me I had you as a partner. Now I got...gotcha!" Triumphant, Shikamaru finally found what he was looking for behind a curio cabinet. A small brown box, unmarked, greeted him and he grinned. "Let's go."

Getting out had been simpler than getting in, since the guards were all heading towards one central area, their master's bedroom. Of course, they would find the man safe and sound, the mission had not been to assassinate the Lord of the manor. Not unless what happened to be in the box matched the testimony of individual who had hired them. But that would be another mission for another time, and possibly another team.

Sasuke had been strangely quiet on the return trip, more than usual even for him. Shikamaru tried engaging in mild conversation - he might dislike the Uchiha but he was not without some sense of civility - to no avail. Although he found this mildly disconcerting since the two usually exchanged wits or veiled insults whenever partnered, Shikamaru let the matter drop. He wasn't a mind reader, and Sasuke had the mood swings of a pregnant woman at times. If the Uchiha had a problem, he could speak up.

They returned to the village in record time, turning in their report and the mysterious item to the Hokage before leaving. Two days rest, then they were to check back in for another mission assignment. Content with this, Shikamaru had left the tower feeling pretty good. Two days was just enough time for someone like him to catch a good night's rest and a few catnaps. Maybe if he were lucky, Neji would be available for a game of shogi.

"Here." A stack of papers suddenly dangled in front of Shikamaru's face and he blinked, turning to face Sasuke. "These are for you."

"The hell?" Taking the papers, Shikamaru glanced over them before starting. "Uchiha, what the..."

"According to the Hokage's orders," Sasuke began, crossing his arms. "Any individual partnered with me can choose, at any time, to be reassigned permanently. It's already filled out, just sign it."

An unnamed emotion churned in Shikamaru's gut and anger bubbled just beneath the surface. "You want to get rid of me that bad? Just for 'being slow'?" He had known Sasuke could be dramatic but even this felt over the top.

"I'm doing you a favor." Sasuke took a step forward, tilting his head up slightly to eye Shikamaru. Neither of them seemed to care they were right outside the tower's doors, standing at the threshold. "Now you won't have to deal with me."

Obviously, Shikamaru had missed something important. Putting Sasuke's strange silence and this outburst together, Shikamaru now knew he had said or did something to set the Uchiha off on this path, but had no idea as to what or how to fix it. Or if he even wanted to.

"Troublesome." he took the papers and ripped them in half, giving them back to a stunned Sasuke. "Keep your papers. I'll see you in two days."

For some reason, he felt oddly satisfied.

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Extra Theme!: Twins
Series: Arcanus Series
Character(s): Briae (hints of Briae/Verinel)
Rating: K
Words: 641

Requester: Antje

Although technically Sotia and Rinnoiel were her niece and nephew, Briae considered the twins to be her cousins. At least, she felt more comfortable using the title and the two never complained. Their relationship consisted of awkward conversations, where the twins would try hard to pretend they weren't trying to stare at her disfigured face and Briae pretended not to notice. Well, this had been true until a few months ago, when the three of them had finally come to some sort of mutual understanding of each other.

Briae cared for them, for they were family in the traditional sense, even if they weren't blood related. Only two years her junior, the two half-elves were big bundles of energy, always on the move, always chipper and positive. Bright rays of sunshine, from their bright expressive green eyes to their wild and curly red hair. She watched them play along the edges of their father's favorite lake while she sat by the large willow tree overlooking the water. Wisps of green periodically tickled her face and ears as the wind drifted the leaves about and a part of Briae wanted to go out and play with them.

"Why do you always just sit here?" as if voicing her thoughts, Verinel's tone sounded flat but not cold as he rounded the tree to stand by her. The two elflings stared at each other blankly and Briae wondered what the young orphan was thinking. Verinel had been cheerful and playful like the others until his father killed everyone. Now he was like her, quiet and subdued, solemn. She motioned for him to sit and for a moment she thought he would refuse, his expression had shown genuine surprise. Then he nodded once, pulling his knees up to his chest as he sat down beside her, looking at the two other elves play.

"I like sitting." Briae finally answered, lowering her head so that her hair blocked the scarred half of her face, the side he was sitting on. He gave her a funny look.

"Why do you always hide your face?"

"Why are you asking me so many questions?" She snapped, frowning at him. Her face was still a very sensitive and sore subject for her. "Y-you never cared before."

"I did care." Verinel looked away then, back at the lake. No anger or defensiveness could be heard, merely stark honesty. He settled his chin on his knees. "I was just too shy to ask at the time."

"You're not shy now?" By now the other two had noticed the newcomer and began to wave from their position, which was half way into the water. Briae waved back at Sotia and Rinnoiel, but not before she heard Verinel answer.

"Facing death makes you realize how trivial certain things in life are."

He sounded so much older than thirteen summers and Briae's heart went out to him. She couldn't remember the attack which had destroyed half of her face and left scars on her chest, she had been too young. All she had were nightmares, Verinel had the pain of memories and nightmares, and the attacker had been no strange creature, but his own deranged father.

"I'm tired of being mopey." He continued before doing something to completely stun her. With gentle fingers, he pulled back her hair, tucking the strands behind her ear. Her face flushed at his scrutiny, at his dull eyes which had once been so full of life. "And others are stupid. You're pretty, don't hide it."

He stood up then, dusting off his backside, before offering the twins a wave as he turned to leave. Briae remained sitting, long after he left, her fingers brushing over her temple where he had touched her. The words of her papa rang loudly in her mind and a small smile touched her lips.

052. Theme Requests!

2011-04-18T21:36:00.000-07:00

No smut. Let's keep this PG 13 for now.
Try to keep it something simple, since 500 words is the limit.
I'll be taking only the first three commenters unless I feel like doing more.
One slot per person.
'Free For All' just means whatever I feel like doing. So if none of the characters appeal or you just want to post a random theme, feel free to choose the Free For All Option if available.
Even if I post a pairing, you can request a solo theme for the characters listed.
Solo characters listed are that way because I don't want to write a pairing. That may or may not change depending on how I feel when I write it.
I reserve the right to refuse a request or ask you to change it if I feel the theme is too complicated/what have you.

This event will go on the entire day. If you already see 3 commenters, still post your theme if you have one. You never know, I might just do it anyway!

Reminder: You don't choose the pairing/characters, I do. Requesters only provide the theme. Please remember that for Free For Alls, because it applies to that as well.

Your Selection!:(I may have them listed as a pairing, but if you want them solo, just say so)

Original: Lavern/Rhiannon, Sarnaiel/Naliel, Briae, Pavien, Konane/Rajasi, Free For All
Fandom: ShikaSasu(Naruto), M!Hawke/Fenris(Dragon Age 2), SasuHina(Naruto), Mitsuaki/Tokou(Naruto OC's)

Slots: (Filled!)

Spammishrice - ShikaSasu (10 yr anniversary)
Essenceofthedark - ShikaSasu (Tomatos)
Wakasensei - ShikaSasu (Hurry up)
Antje - Briae (Twins)

051. Special Guest Sarah McNeal!

2011-04-17T21:00:00.000-07:00

So, I'm surfing the internet, looking through my e-mails and plotting out stories in my head, the norm for me, when I receive an e-mail titled "Hey Catriana, I have a request." by none other than Sarah McNeal, co-owner of Sweet N Sexy Divas. I eventually picked my jaw up off the floor after realizing I had just been asked to have the honor of hosting such an awesome writer on my blog and responded with a "Hell yes!", although not as enthusiastically(I was polite, I swear).

As most folks already know, I'm very new to the publishing scene, with two releases coming this June, and I've met so many kind and talented authors since then. Sarah and Tina are two such people, they're very active, they try to communicate with everyone on their Yahoo!Group. It's a privilege to have Sarah here today to promote her release and to host a contest!

Today, Sarah is offering a free copy of her release Harmonica Joe's Reluctant Bride. All you have to do to enter is to comment here on this blog! Sounds easy enough, no? So, I'll go ahead and stop rambling and let Sarah take over :)

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Do You Believe In Ghosts?

I wonder who among us believes in ghosts. I’m cynical about such things as ghosts, witches, soothsayers and such. But if I were to be completely true to myself, I would have to say, “Well maybe.” Deep within us is a primal fear of the unknown, the supernatural. I remember last year my niece and I were visiting my hometown in Bloomsburg, Pennsylvania and admiring all the old Victorian houses. Almost all the houses are Victorians. My first thought was how wonderful it might be to have one of these houses as a summer house. My second thought, unbidden and terrible, was they’re probably all haunted. Me. The cynic. Afraid to buy a house for fear it might be haunted. If I’m going to believe in ghosts, I have to believe there is a purpose in them being left on the Earthly plane—something bigger and deeper than they’re inability to see the light and go into it. They want or need something but the big question is what?

Harmonica Joe’s Reluctant Bride begins in a haunted house—not just any house, but a big old plantation from way back when. Whether the ghost that resides there is out for revenge or up to some other mischief is revealed as the story unfolds and you might be astounded by the answer.

I want to thank Catriana for allowing me to come to her blog today to talk about my new release.

You can find me at my website: http://www.sarahmcneal.com and Facebook

I also co-own Sweet N Sexy Divas an author/reader group and blog where I am present most days with my friend and talented author Tina Donahue. sweetnsexydivas@yahoogroups.com

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Harmonica Joe’s Reluctant Bride

By Sarah McNeal

Available at Western Trail Blazer Novels

http://westerntrailblazer.yolasite.com/online-store.php

Also available at Amazon.com on Kindle

Print will be available soon

A haunted house, a trunk and a date with destiny.

Blurb:

Joseph Wilding left his prosperous Virginia ranch and his grieving father to live in obscurity and guilt over his brother’s death and then he marries Lola instead of Callie McGraw, the woman he abhors but whose life he was attempting to save.

Lola discovers a warp in time in an old trunk when she falls into 1910. She finds herself married to Joe, a stranger shadowed by secrets. Mistaken for Callie McGraw, a thief and a woman of ill repute, Lola finds her life is threatened by a scoundrel who believes she stole his money and only Joe stands between her and death.

With danger threatening all around and secrets keeping them apart, can Joe and Lola find their destiny together or will time and circumstance forever divide them?

Excerpt:

Harmonica music floated down from the attic—the last place in this tumble down wreck of a house Lola Barton wanted to go. Had someone or something taken up residence there? Lola made her way up the darkened attic stairs measuring each step as the ancient boards creaked in protest under her feet. Her flashlight beamed a narrow circle of light illuminating the cobweb-covered door at the top of the landing. Her heart raced and pulsed in her ears. Hands trembled with the surge of adrenaline as she pressed forward. She ignored her inner voice that warned, “Don’t go!”

Her cynical mind told her the rumors that Misty Oaks Plantation had ghosts weren’t true. The tales of murder and betrayal had to be the overactive imagination of the local townspeople. A homeless vagrant had to be the most logical explanation for the disturbance.

Once she gained the landing, she blew the cobwebs from the door and leaned her ear against it to listen for any movement on the other side. Wisps of harmonica music lifted in the air. Perhaps someone left a harmonica lying around and the wind blew hard enough through the cracks in the walls to make it sound as though someone played the instrument. Just the wind. No ghost.

With her courage bolstered by her logical conclusion, she grabbed the doorknob and turned it.

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Thanks for coming, Sarah, it's been an honor!

Remember folks, to enter the contest you must leave a comment!

050. Six Sentence Sunday pt 10

2011-04-16T21:00:00.000-07:00

Woot! Part 10 already!

Well, for those who missed it, as promised, I did come up with a side story for this. It involves Lavern and Pavien, prior to Rhiannon's arrival. It's only part one. Part two will be next week, and will conclude the short which ends right before part 9. Take a gander if you'd like and get a glimpse of Lavern's side of the story!

-----------

When Lavern closed the door to one of the smaller conference rooms after her outburst, he immediately started laughing, leaning against the door with his head bowed. Rhiannon crossed her arms and shot him a glare, even though her lips were twitching in an effort to bite back a smile. For a moment, her anger towards him and his uncouth behavior fled while she watched him chuckle with abandon.

"Oh gods, the looks on their faces!" Lavern continued to chuckle, blue eyes bright with mirth "I do believe, my dear Rhiannon, that were I not already madly in love with you, that incident right there would have sealed my affections."

<--- Back | Next --->

049. Interview with Raine Delight!

2011-04-14T21:00:00.000-07:00

Whoo hoo! So, this week has been a busy week for the Muse, I think. Julie Lynn Hayes started us off on Monday with her awesome upcoming release, Wednesday was the kick off of Theme Wednesdays, Thursday I posted a short story based on my Six Sentence Sunday serial and today we have another special guest, Raine Delight! I've asked her a few questions and she's here today to share a bit about herself and her releases. Hope you enjoy!

Without further ado, time for the (short) interview!

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Catriana: What kind of music gets you really going when you're writing?
Raine: Depends on my mood really. Sometimes a song will bring a scene into focus or I will hear a song and it will fit a scene perfectly.

Catriana: Have you ever had that one character that just bursts into your story and actually ends up completely derailing your storyline?
Raine: Oh god yes. Most of the time I get a germ of an idea and the main character just about shouts out everything else.

Catriana: Guilty Pleasures: Do you have something that you'd really love to write, but don't know if you'd feel comfortable selling?
Raine: Historical Romance. I am not too sure if I have the patience for all the research it may entail.

Catriana: Many authors have moments where they struggle with a scene because it makes them highly uncomfortable. What's the most uncomfortable scene you've ever had to write?
Raine: None as of yet but give me time *grins*

Catriana: Any future plans us readers can look forward to as far as your writing goes?
Raine: 2011 is turning into one huge release year for me. Below is my list of upcoming releases.

From Shadowfire Press
Space Pirates: Bounty (June 17th, 2011)-My first Sci-Fi Ménage (M/F/M)
Destined Mates 1: Bewitched by Destiny (November 4th, 2011)-Paranormal Romance
Mistletoe Magic (December 4th, 2011)-Vampire/Paranormal Holiday Novella
Club Fantasy 1: Desires Unleashed (February 2012)-Paranormal BDSM Ménage (M/M/F)

Secret Cravings Publishing
Devon Falls Series
Sticky Magic *book 1* Release date-June 2011
Red Hot Magic *book 2* Release date TBA
Fiery Magic *book 3* Release date TBA
Haunting Magic *book 4* Release date TBA
Moonlight & Magic *book 5* Release date TBA

The first four books are re-releases and have been re-edited and expanded for Secret Cravings Publishing.

Fantasies UnboundShadowfire Press
Fantasy/Paranormal Sensual Romance
Available NOWBuy at Shadowfire Press: http://www.tinyurl.com/Fantasies-RDelight
&
All Romance E-books: http://www.allromanceebooks.com/product-fantasiesunbound-525527-140.html

Thank you so much Raine for stopping by. Definitely sounds like you got your hands full! Good luck with all of your releases!

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Can destiny lead a Fae Prince to the one woman who can complete him mind, body and soul?

Blurb:Prince Aryan has looked all over the fairy court for his destined mate. Time is running out before his mother, the queen of the Fae folk, will be forced to arrange a suitable marriage for him. Finally hearing the call of his mate, he is stunned to find her in the human world. Can Aryan find a way to make Skye his for all time even as he breaks the law for loving a human?

Skye Andrews has had it with bad dates and unsuitable men. As a last resort, she turns to her aunt who brews a love potion for her to find her destined mate. What she finds is that magic can happen….even with a little help of a love potion and a well meaning but meddling fairy queen. Can Skye find a way to live happily ever after with the one man who is the other half of her soul?

Skye sat with her hands fisted in her shirttails so she wouldn't throttle her well-meaning yet clueless Aunt Mary. The smoking cauldron on the stove erupted into another hiss, and the smell was making her stomach curdle.

Aunt Mary muttered to herself as she gathered the necessary ingredients for the love spell from various places in the ancient farmhouse.

Skye tried not to cringe when her aunt walked too close to a knife sitting on the edge of the table. Clearing her throat, Skye mustered enough courage to ask, "Is this thing supposed to be turning black and smelling like rotten eggs?"

"Oh my, yes dearie." Aunt Mary said as she bustled around the kitchen.

Skye blew out a deep breath and tried to keep calm as she watched her aunt stir something that looked suspiciously like toad legs in the cauldron. Yuck. I swear, some days it's almost too much to bear, with Mary's new found interest in new age-isms and spells that do everything but what they're supposed to. Skye looked at the clock and sighed, knowing she wasn't going to get on the road back to Dayton any sooner than her aunt deemed it worthy.

Skye tried not to sound dejected but after her disastrous Valentine date where her date just talked and talked about his life and career, she felt lost on the planes of life. With each day going by, it was almost too much to bear as she watched friends find their significant others and fall in love. Her aunt was determined to get the sparkle back in her eyes, or so she said the first night. It was enough to make Skye cringe in horror but she couldn't say anything mean to the one person who loved her more than anything. Flipping her hair off her face, she breathed a sigh of relief as she watched her aunt finish whatever she was doing to the brew until Mary turned around with a bottle of the foul smelling stuff.

"Here you go dear. All finished and ready to be imbibed by you! All you need to do is say three times: "I wish for my true love to find me" and then within seven days, according to the spell book I got from a used book store, your true love will find you and steal your heart away," Aunt Mary said as she gazed fondly at Skye, who was trying to look happy but failing miserably.

Skye took the bottle and peered at it grimacing. It was blackish-blue in color, with something that looked like lightning bugs shining in it, winking here and there. For a moment it was like watching a kaleidoscope of colors, enough to make her eyes become cross eyed. Uncorking the bottle, Skye tried to shield her expression from Mary but a shudder ran through her as she again thought of the men who got away or chose someone else and firmed her resolve to find a love of her own. A pleasant licorice scent wafted from the brew and though Skye was skeptical, she had to admit it smelled better than it looked. Muttering, "Let's hope it tastes as pleasant as it smells or I am going to throw up chunks," Skye leaned back and gulped the liquid. As she finished the last drop, she put down the bottle and recited the words her aunt told her to say:

"I wish for my true love."

"I wish for my true love."

"I wish for my true love."

Skye turned to the window and prayed this drink didn't make her sick when she caught a glimpse of a face looking at her. It was enough to cause her to gasp quietly and take a step back. Those moss green eyes seemed to call to her, longing for something and it was enough for Skye to wonder if she was losing her mind. She looked away thinking it was a figment of her imagination but the face still stared at her; those chiseled cheeks, full, round lips that made her long to feel them over her own and those cheekbones would give a model envy. Skye felt her body sit up and take notice and her panties got moist with her racing desire. Soon the face faded, though it felt like time stopped and only Skye could see what was there. Shaking her head, she said, "It was nothing. Just a figment of your imagination or a trick with the light; he isn't real at all. But, why does my heart and mind tell me otherwise? Is he "The One" I been searching for?" Skye wondered as she got ready to leave for home.

-------------------

Raine Delight is a pseudonym of a self professed book lover and after one too many TSTL characters, decided to see if she could write something a little better. Well many drafts later, Devon Falls series came to together. Check out my book pages to see what is going on with me. My muse is a male nut who likes to leave me to go sip mai tais on the beach and leave me foundering for words; though eventually he takes pity on me and gets my words flowing and characters start settling down.

Personal notes: I live with my own boytoy and two kids. I love Johnny Depp movies and enjoy hiking, reading and watching movies with my family.

My links:
Website: http://authorrainedelight.com
Raine's Book Nook Blog: http://Rainedelightbooknook.blogspot.com
Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/Raine_Delight
Author/Reader Loop: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Author_Raine_Delight
Email me: rainedelight@yahoo.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/AuthorRaine-Delight
Shadowfire Press: www.shadowfirepress.com

Secret Cravings Publishing: www.secretcravingspublishing.com

048.

2011-04-14T00:00:00.000-07:00

The short story I promised you all last Sunday. This is part 1 of 2, which I'll post up next week. This takes place between the time Lavern first arrives after his trip to Bavaria and up until last week's Six. I suck at titles, so this has none for now.

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“Welcome home, father.” Pavien Liunos bowed respectfully before clasping the other male’s forearms in a strong grip. “You honor us with your presence. May the light of the moons forever shine down upon your –“

“Yuena’s tits, Pavien,” Lavern rolled his eyes and took two steps back, giving his eldest son a look. “are you trying to give me a headache? Cease with that nonsense.”

With a hearty chuckle, Pavien closed the distance and gave his father a tight hug. “Why Pavien, my favorite son, thank you so much for deflecting the council enough so that they wouldn’t be standing here waiting to rip my balls off. I appreciate all the sacrifices you make for me, which of course is why you’re my favorite.” Pavien pulled back, still grinning. “Did I mention just how amazing you are, my prodigal son?”

“You take after your wretched father, I see.” Lavern pushed past the taller male, shaking his head. Despite his words, the edges of his lips were upturned. “And the council can’t be that upset with me, can they?”

The two walked inside the Liunos estate, the fresh scent of wood and flowers assaulting their senses. Servants bowed quickly as they rushed from room to room, or stood cleaning a terrace here or polishing a carving there. Although the estate boasted a square acreage the size of a large human city, areas were sparsely furnished and decorations reflected simplicity. No grand drapes, marble floors and grandiose rugs marred this ancient sanctuary carved from the Great Tree. Elves were creatures of few material vanities, unlike human kings and nobles who boasted their fortunes by living extravagantly.

“They are so upset with you,” Pavien walked side by side with his father “they ripped into me like a pack of savage rathols. The verbal beatings were brutal, I barely escaped with my ego intact.”

Lavern scowled at this news. “Unacceptable. It is one thing to reprimand me for my actions, but to take out their frustrations on you is not something I will tolerate. What I do not understand is why they are upset in the first place. The alliance with Bavaria is intact, the meetings went well.”

As they continued walking down the winding halls of the estate, a large carved platform could be seen a distance ahead. A bright light glowed from the center along with an intricately carved shaft leading up beyond the confines of the estate. The area was currently unoccupied.

“Well, their concerns could have something to do with the human female you suddenly declared you’re going to marry without word nor discussion on the matter.” Pavien offered, concerned. “They say she has the skin of a Ka’naar, father.”

“And that should matter, how?” Lavern stopped, turning to his son in anger. “All it takes is one good look to see she is not. How many round eared dark elves do you know?”

“I am not your enemy.” Pavien raised his hands in a pacifying gesture and Lavern immediately backed down. “You know I don’t care who you decide to be with, you are an adult and more than capable of making your own decisions concerning your personal life. However, with tensions rising between us and the dark elves, as your Second I strongly advise you to look at this logically. Elves will talk, father, many will make a passing glance and see what they wish to see.”

A moment of tense silence passed between them before Lavern pinched the bridge of his nose, scowling. “Forgive me, my son. I did think of it when I made my decision, but I didn’t care. There have never been any untruths between us and there will be none now.

“When I first saw her, I knew she was the one, Pavien.” He gave his son a pleading look. “I have not...felt this way in a very long time. Not...since your mother.”

“I...see.” The younger male’s gaze flickered away before he smiled. “Better not tell Hariel, he’ll disown you.”

Lavern snorted and the two continued walking. “Hariel will live. He has his own mate to worry about. Right then. I will see the council immediately to apparently discuss my love life, and hopefully eventually talk about actual business. You will join me, won’t you?”

“I will always by your side, father.”

The two males reached the wooden platform, stepping up to the dais. The bright blue light winked up at them as they entered the shaft, stepping on the disk of light. With a warm hum, the disk began to rise, quickly lifting them high up into the air. Through the carvings the estate could be seen below, shrinking as they ascended to the upper levels of the Tree. Above resided a series of elaborate domes and cylinder shaped buildings, smaller than the actual estate below, but still a formidable size. The upper level was where the council and elven academies were housed.

Tree roots untangled as the disk rose into the inner levels of the compound, closing beneath them for purchase. The light faded and the two stepped off the dais, continuing down the winding halls. Here, the area held more decorations. Paintings of famous elven leaders, generals, and Elementalists lined the halls, along with carved murals which told historical facts about their people. In one of the intersecting halls, a carved statue of the goddess Yuena proudly stood in its center. The voluptuous goddess could be seen carrying an elven child close to her chest and a sword in hand, as if defending her charge.

Going right, they quickly reached a wide hallway where thick red double doors greeted them. “The council members are already inside, they’ve been waiting for you.” Pavien put a hand on his father’s shoulder. “If this...if this woman is truly what you say she is, be careful. In the end, she is human and will eventually die. When mother died...was killed...”

“I know.” Lavern smiled sadly. “When the time comes, Pavien, I will step down and you will take my place. In thirty or fifty years, you’ll be ready. Hells, you’re ready now.”

Pavien snorted. “Doesn’t mean I want to. I enjoy my carefree life.” A sigh. “Very well, time to go and face the beasts.”

047. Theme Wednesday pt 2

2011-04-13T07:28:00.000-07:00

Theme #1: Hair
Series: Naruto
Pairing: ShikaSasu
Rating: T
Words: 430
Requester: Essenceofthedark

Rumors boasted of how patient Shikamaru Nara could be when he had to deal with troublesome things. This was said to be due in part to his overly lazy nature – he simply couldn’t be bothered to care enough to do anything. Most of the time, careful prodding and manipulation could get the lazy teen-almost-adult to do just about anything, especially if the individual were loud and female. Shikamaru learned early on the easiest way to shut a female up was to do what she wanted and move on to more enjoyable things.

Unfortunately, in this case, the individual was neither lour nor female, but equally annoying. This person also was trying Shikamaru’s well tempered patience, a monumental feat in and of itself.

He let out an audible sigh, his head buried in his arms. “Do you mind?” his muffled voice sounded bland and flat.

Shikamaru could hear the smile in the other’s voice. “Sure don’t.”

Another sigh. “Sasuke.”

“Shika.”

“Troublesome...stop messing with my hair.”

A small pause before Shikamaru’s hair was given a sharp tug. “No.”

Although the rumors of Shikamaru’s patience – laziness – were true, the rumors of Sasuke Uchiha’s tenacity and drive were equally so. Right now, he wanted attention. Attention Shikamaru refused to give. Sasuke did not enjoy being ignored.

Tug.

Shikamaru let out another sigh. He could either continue to ignore Sasuke in hopes the other boy would eventually give up and leave, or he could give in and let Sasuke have what he wanted.

Tug. Tug, tug, tug.

At this point, even he had to admit this was a matter of pride. Sasuke seemed to always get what he wanted and quite frankly Shikamaru felt the guy needed a lesson in humility.

Tug, tug, tugtugtugtug...

But Sasuke really knew how to push a man’s buttons. Having had enough, Shikamaru slammed his fists down on the table and sat up. “Damnit Uchiha! You troublesome son of a...”

His words were cut short when soft lips pressed against his and Sasuke’s hand snaked through his thick hair, pulling apart his hair tie. Always the aggressor, Sasuke’s tongue sought entrance, languidly exploring Shikamaru’s mouth, teasing the other’s tongue in a battle of supremacy. And with that final move, the Nara’s resistance crumbled.

Sasuke, if nothing else, was a damned good kisser.

“There’s easier ways of trying to get attention.” Shikamaru gasped as they eventually broke apart. “Manipulative bastard.”

“Yeah, but they’re not as fun. Admit it, for all your bitching and moaning you like it when I give you my undivided attention.”

Maybe, but Shikamaru would never admit it.

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Theme #2: Desire
Series: Naruto
Pairing: ShikaSasu
Rating: T
Words: 459
Requester: Waka-sensei

“Tellz me, vat iz your greatest dezire?”

“Cut it out, Ino.” With a growl, Shikamaru batted away his friend and teammate’s hand, looking around the festival for some sort of excuse to get away. “You look ridiculous, by the way.”

“Spoilsport.” Ino huffed, putting her hands on her hips. She sat at one of the many festival booths, a large sign sporting a painted crystal ball and stars with the name MADAME INOVIA above her head. The makeup she wore was thick and bright, shades of blue and green with bright red lipstick and fake eyelashes. Apparently, the other females participating felt Ino looked mysterious and mystical. Shikamaru thought she looked like a retarded clown. “It’s all to raise money for the children’s ward at the hospital.”

“Can’t I just give you money and you not try and tell me my future?” If given the choice, Shikamaru would even be at the festival, but he was part of the security force for the festival tonight. Unlike the others in kimono and yukata, Shikamaru wore his standard shinobi gear, hands in pockets and a typical scowl on his face. He really wanted to take a nap.

“Nooo!” Ino grabbed his arm, tugging on his sleeve. “It’s not as fun unless you play along Shikamaru! Think of the children!”

He let out a sigh, scratching the back of his head as he dug into his pocket. “Man, you’re worse than my mom sometimes, Ino. Just...don’t talk in that stupid accent, okay?”

“Deal!” she snatched the bills out of his hand before he could even count them and sat back down in her chair. She cleared her throat. “Now then, what is your greatest desire?”

“To take a nap. A long one.”

“Shika!”

“Eh, I think I see someone flagging me, gotta go.” He walked away, ignoring Ino’s protests concerning something along the lines of tarot cards. Putting a hand to his mouth, Shikamaru yawned loudly, uncaring of his destination so long as he could get away from the crowds. Something flashed out of the corner of his eye and with a small smirk, he turned and followed, not even bothering to check and see if someone were watching.

The moment he turned down a dark alleyway, Shikamaru was grabbed by his vest and pulled into the darkness. Quickly, Shikamaru gained the upper hand – or rather, was allowed to – and pinned his assailant to the wall. Crimson eyes greeted him, a cocky smirk on a pale but handsome face.

“And what’s your greatest desire, Uchiha?” Shikamaru asked, pressing closer, using the shadows to keep Sasuke’s hands pinned above his head while his hands began to move along hardened muscle.

A delicate brow rose before Sasuke snorted. “I’m looking at it.”

“Good answer.”

------------

Theme #3: Pocky
Series: Naruto
Pairing: SasuHina
Rating: T
Words: 330
Requester: Aikazi

Caught in a rock and a hard place, Sasuke’s eyebrow twitched when his girlfriend fixed him with the most effective set of puppy dog eyes he had ever seen in his life. Funny, considering her eyes were white.

“Please, Sasu-kun?” She pleaded, holding up a strawberry flavored pocky stick.

His eyebrow began to twitch uncontrollably at this point, unsure if he knew what to do about handling this new weapon called his girlfriend. Never would he have considered Hinata Hyuuga of suck trickery.

He blamed Sakura.

And Ino.

Probably Tenten too. Damn them all.

“No.” He said, although not as firmly as he would have liked. Of course, with his woman being a Hyuuga, she picked up on his wavering tone immediately and went for the kill.

Slowly, and deliberately, she took the slender pocky stick covered in sweet crap and placed half of it in her mouth. She had even made sure to dart her cute little tongue out beforehand, trailing a line along the bottom. His dark eyes had remained fixed on her mouth and Sasuke unconsciously licked his lips. Now he had a hard decision to make.

Sasuke could ignore her attempts and be denied access to her lush lips for the remainder of the day. Or, he could man up and ignore his absolute disgust for sweets and get to claim those sweet lips of hers for as long as he pleased. Which was more important to him, his hatred for sweets or his love for his girlfriend’s lips.

“You’re not allowed to hang out with those girls anymore,” he growled, grabbing the back of her head and pulling her close “they’re a bad influence.” She giggled as he tilted his head, taking in his half of the pocky – ugh, so sweet! – and her lips. Her hands slid up his chest to rest on his shoulders as she responded, leaning into him.

Sasuke: 0, Pocky: 1

He could take one for the team just this once.

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Hope you enjoyed! Tomorrow I'll have something special up for you Six Sentence Sunday readers!

046. Theme Wednesday Requests!

2011-04-12T04:43:00.000-07:00

Okay, so I figured having the request line up early would probably be more beneficial than doing it the day of. So let's get this party started!

Rules:

No smut. Let's keep this PG 13 for now.
Try to keep it something simple, since 500 words is the limit.
I'll be taking only the first three commenters unless I feel like doing more.
One slot per person.
'Free For All' just means whatever I feel like doing. So if none of the characters appeal or you just want to post a random theme, feel free to choose the Free For All Option if available.
Even if I post a pairing, you can request a solo theme for the characters listed.
Solo characters listed are that way because I don't want to write a pairing. That may or may not change depending on how I feel when I write it.
I reserve the right to refuse a request or ask you to change it if I feel the theme is too complicated/what have you.

Original: Lavern/Rhiannon, Sarnaiel/Naliel, Briae, Pavien, Free For All
Fandom: ShikaSasu(Naruto), M!Hawke/Fenris(Dragon Age 2), SasuHina(Naruto)

Slots:

Essenceofthedark - Shikamaru's hair (ShikaSasu)
Wakasensei - Desire (ShikaSasu)
Aikazi - Pocky (SasuHina)

045. Welcome Julie Lynn Hayes!

2011-04-10T21:00:00.000-07:00

I have to admit, I'm pretty excited to have my first guest here on the Muse, especially a fellow Silver Publishing author. Today I have Julie Lynn Hayes, who has come to talk to us about something I can personally relate to. I'll let her take it from here!

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I hear voices in my head.

No, I’m not daft or certifiable—at least no more than any other writer, I think. The voices that I hear are not the kind that tell me to do strange things or incite me to desperate acts, rather they belong to my characters, both those I know and those I’ve yet to meet. And I’ve learned something in over forty years of writing—when they speak, I listen!

Carrying paper and pencil or pen is wonderful advice for those moments when your characters begin to speak and you want to capture them for posterity. It’s all well and good to say oh, I’ll remember that, no problem, until you’re sitting in front of your computer screen and your fingers are in place upon the keyboard and suddenly you’ve forgotten every single word you were sure you’d remember forever. As they talk, you should write, that much is just a given.

But sometimes you aren’t in a position to write—for example, while you’re driving, or when you’re showering (bathing isn’t quite so bad, at least you can take the paper and pen into the bathroom and write while you soak), or even when you’re having sex. So what do you do? If it’s just one line, you can keep repeating it to yourself until you’re in a position to write it down, and that can work. But what if it’s more than that?

I have a little trick for those moments. At least it works for me. I get a mental picture of the emotions involved, and capture them visually, imprinting them with the words, almost like a hot key. So that when I’m ready, I "press" the key, and then it comes out where I can capture it. If I let the character ramble before I’m ready, I find that I lose the words. But if I imprint them in this way, then they stay there, waiting for me to access them.

For example, last year my daughter and I went to see Inception at the theatre, the Leonardo di Caprio film. I wasn’t even sure at first that I wanted to see it, but she did so I agreed to go. Before we went, I got to thinking about Leo and other films that I’ve seen him in over the years, including Total Eclipse (Leo and David Thewlis – totally hot! Kissing and nakedness, very delicious!), and I heard a voice speak to me.

"Did you know that Leonardo di Caprio is a vampire?"

Sounds like an odd beginning or introduction even for a character. But I thought what the heck, let’s listen. I realized that this was a new character, so I remembered the line, all through Inception. Afterwards, I decided to elaborate, as I drove home. First, I needed character names. In Inception, Cillian Murphy’s character’s name is Robert Fisher. He’s an important character, and his name stuck in my head, but I reversed it and changed it slightly. So Robert Fisher became Fisher Roberts. One character down, now for number two (I already knew this would be m/m, so I needed another male name). As I was driving, I scanned everything around me—billboards, businesses, vehicles, whatever—for the mate to Fisher Roberts. I saw an ad for hunting, and suddenly I had it—Hunter, who became Hunter Long. It wasn’t til long after I began to write that I saw what I had inadvertently done – Fisher and Hunter. It might seem contrived to some, but it was totally accidental.

I knew nothing about these two guys, but I began to write, using that first line, and I kept writing until some 35k later, I was done. And that is how Leonardo di Caprio is a Vampire was born.

This isn’t the only time this has happened to me, far from it. There once was a time when I was researching a non-fiction book, a children’s book about composer Percy Granger, when a voice began to speak, and he told me he was a gay werewolf. I could feel that he was a nice man, so I politely told him to please wait til I was done with the other book. But he kept talking, so to appease him I thought I would just write down a few notes and hold onto them until I was ready. Those few notes became the first chapter of To The Max. Which became an entire book. And which now has a sequel. All because a voice wanted to be heard. Oh, that other book never got written yet. Guess Percy needs to speak louder, eh?

Another time, it was Judas Iscariot that spoke, and that book became Revelations (for which I’m still seeking a publisher). Sometimes I only get to the first chapter, and then it sits as a WIP until I get back to it. But at least it’s a start.

I hate to think about all of the characters that I have lost or forgotten because I wasn’t able to keep their words in my head. Perhaps they’ll come back again someday, but I’m not holding my breath. That goes for the books I’ve written in my dreams, but forget the moment I wake up. Since I started using my little mnemonic trick, I haven’t lost a thing, and that’s a good feeling. I just hope my readers agree that it was worth it!

Do your characters talk to you? Do you have any tricks you use for getting your characters down onto paper? I’d love to hear about it! Thanks for having me, Catriana, have a great day, everyone!
--------------

Thanks for stopping by, Julie, that was a very interesting article, definitely something I and probably many other authors can attest to.

Where you can find Julie:
http://www.julielynnhayes.com/ --> Website
http://julielynnhayes.blogspot.com/ --> Blog

To be released by Silver Publishing!

Blurb: Leonardo di Caprio is a Vampire

“Tis the night before Halloween, and Fisher Roberts wishes it was over, not being a fan of this or any other holiday. But he tolerates it because his roommate/best friend Hunter Long takes a childish glee in all things Halloween. And Fisher has a vested interest in keeping Hunter happy. If only he could find the nerve to tell his childhood friend that he loves him, and has for a very long time.

Fisher thinks Hunter is carrying things a bit far this year, though. First Hunter claims to be a vampire, and he just won't let the silly joke go. Then he forces Fisher to go to a costumed Halloween party which Fisher would rather avoid, especially when he realizes where it's being held, and whose house it is. Things at Fisher's job might just be going south, too, when he receives a mysterious summons to report to the editor's office the next morning. And then Fisher goes and does something stupid--like kissing Hunter!

Bad leads to worse when Fisher ends up at the Halloween party from Hell, and he learns something that threatens to destroy his and Hunter's relationship forever. Running from his fears, Fisher encounters a strange young man with an unusual resemblance to Leonardo di Caprio, who shows him things he never realized before, truths about his life and the people in it.

Can Fisher find his way back to Hunter, and can he find the courage to do what his heart wishes?

Excerpt: Leonardo di Caprio is a Vampire

“Did you know that Leonardo di Caprio is a vampire?”

      Fisher Roberts stopped in mid-chew of a mouthful of fibrous cereal to cast a wary, disbelieving glance at his best friend and roommate Hunter Long on the other side of the table. Wary, because he wondered what in the world Hunter was going on about so early in the morning. Disbelieving, because he only had so much time for breakfast before he had to get going to work, and he had a bad feeling that Hunter was trying to eat into that time. Why he wanted to do that was beyond Fisher. Of course, a lot of things about his roommate were beyond Fisher, despite the fact that they'd been friends since they were--well, too young to actually remember how long they'd known each other. But for as long as Fisher could remember, he and Hunter had been best buddies. And he'd learned over the years that, with Hunter, longevity did not equate to knowledge-ability, far from it.

      Now, Fisher could react in one of two ways. He could ignore his roommate and keep eating. Pretend he'd heard nothing. But from past experience, that would only cause Hunter's performance to escalate. Which would entail taking more time to decipher what he was saying, and in the process make Fisher even later to work.   Or he could simply bow down to the inevitable and give in by asking him the question he was doubtless waiting to hear. Even if it brought about that smug smirk he was so fond of wearing.

      Fisher finished chewing, swallowed, and managed not to roll his eyes as he reached for his juice to kill off what was left in the glass. Waste not, want not. “What do you mean?”

      Hunter Long might be six foot two and possessed of a body that many a male model would kill for--at least that's what Fisher heard the girls who flocked around him say--with the palest of blue eyes that twinkled all the time, and a smile that could and did light up a room. But honestly, he had the capacity to be an overgrown child at times, and this was one of those times. Fisher chalked it up to it being that time of year.

      “Well,” Hunter replied, “look at him, going on forty, and he looks just like he did what, fifteen years ago? It only stands to reason he must be a vampire. They never age, you know. I mean take a look at us. We're almost his age, but over the years we'll grow up to be little old men and he'll still be playing sweet baby-faced guys even when he's collecting social security, know what I mean?”

      “There are no such things as vampires,” Fisher made his typical logical reply, “and just because it's Halloween tomorrow night, and you've got the house all decorated for it, doesn't mean you have to bring it to the table. Know what I mean?” He arched a no-nonsense brow at the other man. This was not Fisher's favorite time of year. Neither was Christmas, come to think of it. Or any other holiday. Ironic that he should write articles for a living that meant he was forced to expound on such seasonal topics for Midwest Home and Fantasy, a regional online magazine with a growing fan-base, when he had no real interest in them himself, being a practical, no-nonsense kind of a guy.

      “I'm a vampire.” Hunter smiled, leaning across the table toward Fisher. “Want to see my fangs?”

044. Six Sentence Sunday pt 9

2011-04-09T22:32:00.000-07:00

“It has been an entire week and my ‘future husband’ has all but outright publically avoided me, I will be stalled no longer!” She shouted, pushing aside the started elven guard with brutish strength. She almost rolled her eyes at him, if they believed her to be some sort of dainty princess, these elves were in for a painful surprise.

All eyes were on her as she walked into the council room as if she rightfully belonged, but only one gaze caught her immediate attention. Rhiannon steeled herself and managed to hold back the surprised gasp which had threatened to escape upon feasting her eyes on the man who Pavien took after, but carried no candle to in terms of beauty and magnificence.

“Lavern Liunos, I will have an audience with you, immediately, or I swear on Primira’s mortal grave I shall walk back to Bavaria and be damned this ‘arrangement!”

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I'll be writing a little short on what's been keeping Lavern so busy all this time. Feel free to stop by here this week if you're interested!

<--- Back | Next --->

043. Too Late (M/F Short)

2011-04-08T20:56:00.000-07:00

Lunaria, drawn by Eternal-S

In the Arcanus Series, there are many tales of the gods and goddesses of the land. One such story is the tale of Beloved Moon, Lunaria's holy blades. It is also the story which begins the romance between her and Kard, the lord of the Void. As for whether or not this actually happened...who knows? ;)

This was written a while back, so I apologize for any gaping errors.

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She tries so hard not to look absolutely terrified at his overwhelming presence and fails. Older and yet young, so young, that she cannot help but to take a step back as he stands before her. Lunaria feels as if he is staring deep within her soul and she struggles not to shiver. To show weakness.

Everything about him is darkness personified. Clothes, hair, those violet eyes encased in black. They feel unyielding, unmerciful. Shadows seem to pour from his being, creating a sort of miasma that one feels and fears. The only thing about him that is bright is his alabaster skin. Veins, black and dark violet, line his body. She swears they almost seem to glow.

Lunaria tries not to bite her bottom lip when his seem to twitch up at the ends, as if taking pleasure in her fear. He takes another step forward, raising his hand. Her breath catches and she almost screams when she feels his icy hand gently grab her wrist.

Lips part and Lunaria can feel her chest threatening to burst, lungs needing air. She becomes distracted from her thoughts as something cool and metallic drops into her waiting hand. All too quickly he moves away, eyes narrowing.

He bows slowly, smoothly. "Happy birthday, Lady Lunaria. I wish you many more." His first words, a deep rumble sounding husky from a voice not often used. Another bow and her gaze is locked on the object in her hand as his presence slowly begins to fade.

Two silver charm bracelets are his gifts to her, but that is not what has her entranced. The charms themselves is what holds her attention, two slender blades. One is the color of his overwhelming presence, the other the brightest silver. In each is etched a single word.

"Beloved Moon."

A startled gasp escapes when the charms turn into life-sized versions of the two swords. Lunaria stares in awe at them in her hands. The perfect balance with unimaginable power flowing from them. 'Beloved', the ebony blade, is full of his own power. As she turns the weapon over she senses something more, something deeper. Her stomach ties into knots when she realizes just what he's added into such a priceless treasure.

His soul.

The other blade, 'Moon', is its polar opposite in every way. The silver beauty radiates with power from her own sisters...even the ones whom have remained silent for thousands of years. A blade of the finest materials, she can feel the love of siblings she has only known for a century since her creation and yet...so much emotion. Tears threaten to spill over and she takes a calming breath.

How did he do this? Why did he do this? He was the lord of darkness, the living embodiment of a cold void. The most powerful of them all, to be feared and avoided. He supposedly had no heart, no emotions, and yet as she holds Beloved, everything inside of her senses differently.

Closing her eyes, her heart begins to pound wildly. Flashes of what had transpired earlier flickers through her mind, but seen with different eyes. Eyes not clouded with rumors and others fears of the man.

The darkness that had seemed to envelope her in a cold embrace, threatening to suck out her very soul now instead felt warm and comforting. Protective. His eyes, which had seemed intimidating and unyielding now seemed mysterious with something deeper she could not decipher. When he had narrowed those unique eyes at her, she realized it had been with warmth, not agitation.

And finally, the way his lips had twitched upward for just a moment...he had smiled at her. Not with malice, but with genuine affection. According to Arian, his half brother, his smile was something that hadn't occurred in thousands upon thousands of years.

Guilt wracks her frame as she stands in the darkened hallway of her home, clutching the swords close to her heart. She is a lady of the moon, a creature created by the Goddess with powers over emotions and yet...she had blinded herself to what had been so completely obvious. She so easily believed everyone's words that she had seen what she had wanted to see, a boogeyman instead of a man.

Ignoring the stares, Lunaria runs through her own home, her gown a whisper along dark mocha skin. She tries to sense his presence but the signal is faint and she knows he will not remain. Why would he?

So she heads for the entrance to her home, guilt striking harder as she remembers he had entered through her front door. Even though he was more than powerful enough to simply 'appear' as others had, he had taken the respectful route and openly announced his presence to her.

"Goddess, forgive me."

When she finds him, it is at the bottom of the steps leading to her home. He is standing straight and tall, gaze locked on the planet in the sky, the planet the goddess had created them all to protect. Standing at the threshold, the blades are now back in bracelet form, dangling from her wrists. Lunaria is panting, but he does not turn to acknowledge her.

With the wave of a hand a portal of pure darkness opens before him. Shadows leak out like smoke, tendrils wrapping around their master, inviting him back home. Before Lunaria realizes what she's doing, her feet are moving and she's closing the distance.

"Kard!"

His hand lowers at his name being called. He turns, expression as blank as before. Lunaria stops a respectful distance away, confusion rolling into her mind like a thick cloud. Where before she had been able to sense his emotions as she could with others, now he feels empty. Somehow, he can even block her out if desired.

He is so...powerful. It makes absolutely no sense.

When he continues to look at her calmly, waiting for her to continue, heat rises to her cheeks. Feeling foolish and highly embarrassed, Lunaria looks down at her wrists, guilt and sadness pouring off of her in waves. Lunaria takes in 'Beloved', the blade he had given a piece of his soul to make...just for her.

"I...thank you." She finally says. "I'll treasure them always."

Cool fingers tilt her chin up. Kard is standing so close, their gazes locking. He observes the chaotic emotions floating in her eyes. He gives her a genuine smile and strokes her cheek with his thumb. Lunaria wonders how she ever thought him cold.

As the emotion quickly grows and slowly begins to manifest a name for itself, she watches as his hand rises again. This time, he reaches behind her head, delving into silver locks. A tug, and then the cloth covering her forehead slips into his waiting grip. Gasping, her initial reaction is to cover the marking on her forehead with her hand, but he stops her.

Revealing the unique tattoo – four crescent moons surrounding a full one – he takes a step back, gaze intense.

"Light should not be in, or with, the darkness."

Kard turns and for a moment it seems as if he is going to keep the cloth she always wears. The fabric slips through his fingers, pooling on the ground as he walks into the portal awaiting him without another word.

So Lunaria stands there, long after he has left, her fingers brushing over the strange mark given to her upon her creation. A mark which set her apart from the others, a mark that she had always been ashamed of for reasons she still did not understand.

She realizes she is crying as the tears tickle her cheek. His words play in her mind over and over, the warning clear.

"Light should not be with the darkness."

The meaning burns down to her very soul, because he is right and the knowledge brings her such pain. Shouldn't, couldn't, don't give into temptation.

"Don't fall in love with me...like I did with you."

Falling to her knees, Lunaria buries her face in her hands. "Too late." She whispers softly, her hand cradling the black blade on her wrist. "Beloved."

042. Theme Wednesday!

2011-04-06T08:03:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone! For those who frequent here, you probably know about the Theme Friday's I did on here. Well, with the launch of It's Raining Men, novel edits, and the events happening in Japan, I had to cancel those for a little while. I'm back now, and there will be a few differences, but I hope to give you guys something enjoyable all the same.

Theme Wednesdays will only hold 3 theme requests, as opposed to 5. This is due to my ever increasing lack of time, but they will still be around 500 words and you'll still be able to put whatever themes up you wish based on what I have posted.

This Wednesday will be special, as I already have in mind 3 fics I wish to present to you all. All of these are dedicated to Essenceofthedark, who is a huge ShikaSasuShika fan. I know what it's like to love a pairing not so mainstream, so these little shorts are a tribute to her. I hope you enjoy them!

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Title: A Thin Line
Pairing: SasuShika
Genre: Angst/Dark
Rating: M
Word Count: 366
Warnings: Implied dub-con, manipulation, angst, dark

Never in his life did Shikamaru ever believe he would fear the shadows until he had met Sasuke after the war. He remembered the moment clearly, the way the Uchiha's eternal crimson gaze settled on his face, the blank expression. Months had passed since Naruto had brought him back to Konoha, and the former traitor had just been released from confinement.

Shikamaru remembered the cold smile which had spread on slightly chapped lips. The way Sasuke had stared, as if privy to some secret joke. Remembered the heat radiating off of the other male's body as he pressed close, Sasuke's voice a mere whisper against his ears.

“There's a thin line between hate and fear, Nara.” Sasuke had purred the words. “Let's see if you're smart enough to tell the difference.”

Before he realized, instead of wanting nothing to do with the Uchiha, he found himself ass up, shouting as the Uchiha would go balls deep inside of him, his body already sore from their painful foreplay. Sasuke always sought him through the shadows, waiting for Shikamaru in his own element. He would whisper dark promises as they fucked, biting, scratching and laying claim.

“You're mine, shadow-boy.” He would whisper. “No matter where you run, how you hide, I will find you.” Sasuke's tongue, wet and hot, would streak along Shikamaru's neck. A low chuckle. “Have you found the line yet, Shika?”

Shikamaru would growl, which always earned him a good hair pulling, before narrowing his eyes. “There is no line.” he finally hissed at Sasuke one day. “When it comes to you, it's the same thing.” Fear, hate, Shikamaru had been unable to tell the difference the moment Sasuke had set his desires upon him. And yet...yet still...

“Good boy.” Sasuke replied, voice strained as his hips pushed forward in his last few thrusts, filling his dubious lover. Tugging on Shikamaru's hair once more, Sasuke licked the seam of the Nara's lips, smirking. His eternal Mangekyo Sharingan spun lazily, keeping Shikamaru enthralled. “I'm proud of you.”

And for all his hate, fear, and disgust, those words delved deep into Shikamaru's heart, and he found himself smiling.

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Title: Confessions

Pairing: ShikaSasu, implied ShikaNejiSasu

Genre: General/Romance?

Rating: T

Word Count: 413

Warnings: Er, just lack of clarification of who is speaking, which is intentional.

“I think I like you.”

“But we're both guys.”

“Yeah...I know.”

The Uchiha and Nara sat on their typical tree branch on a hot summer day in Konoha. The two were inseparable along with the Hyuuga boy who was currently out on a mission. Sasuke leaned back on the branch, letting out a harsh breath as he looked up at the sky. The sun beat down on them despite the shade, Sasuke wished he had brought some sunscreen. He would probably burn horribly.

“How long?”

“A while now. Maybe longer.”

“This...is kind of weird.”

“...Yeah. But I wanted to get it off my chest.”

Shikamaru yawned, Sasuke closed his eyes. They were sixteen and chuunin now, Neji being a jounin and Sasuke up for promotion. They were all considered adults now, all of them free to choose their own path. But the path being offered wasn't an easy one. Homosexuality in a clan-based society typically was frowned upon, because a clan can't grow with two individuals of the same gender.

“You know, they'd probably still make us get married and have kids.”

“Probably.”

“That doesn't bother you?”

“Should it?”

The question was turned over and analyzed. Such a simple thing, yet so many heavy implications.

“I don't know if I'd want to share.”

“Then don't.”

“Wait, what about Neji?”

A shrug, the simple roll of the shoulders. “I think he likes us both...but you said you don't want to share...”

“Maybe...if it was him...I wouldn't mind.”

The response earns him a chuckle and a head shake. “So...does that mean you like me back? That's all I really wanted to know.”

“Oh. I...yeah. Sure. I guess I do. So...uh, what now?”

His question is answered with the simple brushing of the lips. Soft, warm, tinged with salt and everything he would have imagined for his first kiss. Their tongues mingle, the sliding of slick muscle, the taste of lingering chocolate ice cream.

“What now?” they part finally, breathless, foreheads pressed together, eyes hooded. Excitement and lust seep into their stomachs forming a tight heat, stretching to their groin. “Now, we go back to my place. Tell your mom you're spending the night.”

“I like that plan.”

The two young men stand, each giving the other a mischievous grin. Fingers flicker in familiar gestures and then they're both gone in a puff of smoke.

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Title: Dirty Dealings

Pairing: ShikaNejiSasu (It's one of my OT3's. Wut)

Genre: General/Humor(I suck at humor)

Rating: T

Word Count: 346

Warnings: Implied cross-dressing, er, some OOCness.

“Hyuuga, Uchiha, what the hell is this?”

The two geniuses looked at each other as they sat on the couch. Sasuke had been taking a sip of his coffee while Neji had been reading the newspaper. Across the coffee table stood Shikamaru, holding up a very racy black bra.

“We...” Sasuke began, setting his cup down. “Can explain that.”

“And there is.” Neji continued, clearing his throat and folding the newspaper. His face tinted with red. “A perfectly good explanation, I mean.”

Snorting, Shikamaru tossed the bra on the table as if he would catch some sort of disease and crossed his arms. “This should be interesting.” He tried to keep from smirking – this really had to be good if Neji was already blushing – but couldn't keep his traitorous lips from twitching upwards while his boyfriends squirmed uncomfortably.

Sasuke sighed, leaning back on the couch and propping up one leg along his thigh. “It's not even a long one. It can all be explained with one word: Naruto.”

Enough said, indeed. “Who lost the bet?” Shikamaru wanted to know.

The two males on the couch pointed at each other. “He did.”

“Hn.” Slowly, the Nara pulled out a pair of matching panties for the bra, except red. “So...that would explain this too, right?”

“Shit.” Neji snorted as Sasuke slapped a hand over his face and groaned. “I thought I burned those.”

“All right princesses,” Chuckling, Shikamaru tossed the panties on the table. “You know how the 'I told you so' deal works.” He walked over to the arm chair, sitting down and crossing his legs. “I want a lap dance, and I want you to wear those while you do. Matching set is in the bedroom.”

Both males bristled.

“Shika, you cannot be serious...”

“I'm going to kill Naruto...”

With his best shit-eating grin, Shikamaru put his hands behind his back. He would have to do dirty dealings with Naruto more often.

“Daddy's waiting, sweethearts.”

041. Embrace Diversity

2011-04-05T06:41:00.000-07:00

I have to admit that I am very lucky to have the sort of support I do. Although my relationship with my parents is at times strained, they still always made it a point to support me in anything I truly wished to do. Even if they didn't necessarily agree with me, the support was still there.

When it comes to writing in the field that I do, there are many authors out there who meet adversity from those whose support they want the most. Family, friends, close co-workers, at times an author has to hide their identity in fear of serious repercussions. Unfortunate, but true.

What I'd like to discuss today is my personal motto: Embrace Diversity. What does 'embrace diversity' mean, anyway? Well, I suppose it varies with the person. I write mainly romance, but I wouldn't mind dabbling in other fields. My 'diversity' comes in with the actual relationships themselves. Race, gender, culture, I thoroughly enjoy mixing and matching, creating diverse relationships with varying dynamics.

In the short story I wrote for Untreed Reads' Mother's Day submission calls, the characters Olivia and Cynthia, the latter is African American, while Olivia is Caucasian. They are lesbians, and they are married. The two women actually found an African American sperm donor for their child, embracing both sides.

For most conventional families, a story like this would probably make Mom (not so much Dad, I think) uncomfortable. Especially when you involve children. Many straight parents feel a child growing up in a gay family is wrong and even damaging for the child. Add interracial into the mix and it's just a huge block of WTF.

When someone's writing makes a person uncomfortable, one of the many thoughts that go through their mind is "How could this person write this? What goes on in their head?" This is disconcerting when the person judging happens to be someone close to you. The fear of their opinion on you changing for the worst is a terrible feeling, and not one someone should be subjected to.

There is nothing wrong with diversity. Writing a story a certain way doesn't mean you personally support or refute the character's feelings or beliefs. Writing about a murder doesn't mean you want to murder someone, and there is nothing wrong with writing about a GLBT relationship.

Writing a beautiful romance story doesn't make you sick or demented just because the two characters are of the same gender, nor does it mean you secretly wish to be with someone of the same gender. Embracing diversity, exploring different possibilities is what makes writing fiction fantastic. Diving into another world, a creation of your imagination is what motivates me to write.

I love the thrill, the excitement, I love how my characters surprise and move me. I enjoy how their differences makes them compatible, and how their love overcomes not only outside obstacles, but inner ones as well. How can something like that be wrong, when created for the enjoyment of others?

As I said before, I am one of the lucky ones. My parents are proud of me regardless, even if they do not agree with what I write. My husband supports me, even if he can't stomach sex scenes between two men. I have wonderful friends who encourage me. Many authors do not have this. Many hold back on what they truly wish to write out of fear, which to me is wrong. As writers, creators, we should be allowed to write what moves us, there should be no fear of reprisal or of losing a job simply because we write for entertainment purposes.

There is nothing wrong with diversity. To those authors who have to hide under cover: My heart goes out to you and I hope one day you will be able to write all that is in your heart. There is no need for oppression and fear in this day and age.

- Catriana Sommers

040. Character Stats: Pavien Liunos

2011-04-04T05:48:00.000-07:00

For those who read the Six Sentence Sundays, here's a bit of info on our young elven male:

Race: Qui'vali (High Elf)
Elemental Affinity: Fire and Earth are his strengths, although he can manipulate all elements.
DOB: 30 Winter
Height: 6'2
Hair Color: Silver
Eye Color: Blue
Family: Viria Liunos (Mate), Luthaniel Liunos (Mate), Lavern Liunos (father), Evana Liunos(Mother), Eriol Liunos(brother), Hariel Liunos (half-brother), Nalia Liunos (half-sister), Naliel Liunos(Half-brother)
Favorite Color(s): Beige, red, and teal
Favorite Food(s): Northl stew (a type of rabbit/hare)
Least Favorite Food(s): Anything sour.
Hobbies: Fire dancing, hunting, fighting
Martial Specializations: Hand to hand (expert), Swordsmanship (Master)

Personality/Biography: Pavien is Lavern Liunos' first born and his right hand. While Lavern is typically tied up in various meetings and trips around the lands, Pavien remains to handle the more local community aspects of things. He's very similar to his father in a lot of respects, including his playful personality. Pavien remains calm under pressure, using his wit and humor in most social situations.

Pavien actually has two mates, which is rare although not necessarily frowned upon in high elven society. He has no children and feels he is too young still to contemplate such things. He loves his mates dearly, and his more liberal views makes him understanding of his father's desire to remarry time and again. Pavien enjoys battles, be they verbal or physical, he loves a good fight. This caused him a lot of grief when he was much younger, as he got into fights constantly just because. In fact, he met Luthaniel, a high elf from another village, by challenging him to a duel.

He has a very laid back disposition, which he claims counter balances his younger brother Hariel, who is very conservative and a purist.

Quotes: It's nice to meet you...Mother."
"Ignore him, he speaks from his ass more than he should."
"What a special treat! Is it my birthday already? I stopped counting at around a century."
"Careful, I hear if you hit too many epiphanies in a day your head will explode."

039. Six Sentence Sunday pt 8

2011-04-03T00:00:00.000-07:00

Elven architecture was nothing like what humans built and the Liunos estate boasted a uniqueness of its own. In the center of Liunos lands, where the head village resided, rested a tree about as large as a human city which the estate had been mostly built in. From the carvings on the walls to the marble and wooden statues, everything screamed natural or magically made to Rhiannon. There was a distinct earthen feel so foreign to what she was used to that she felt herself instinctively pressing closer to Pavien, who tried to reassure her.

“You’ll get used to it, Lady Zolts.”

“Rhiannon...just call me Rhiannon.”

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038. Centarian Chronicles WIP

2011-03-29T11:19:00.000-07:00

Just a WIP for the prologue of The Centarian Chronicles. Dunno how long it will be, yet.

The thin slippers given did little to drive out the cold of the laboratory floors as the twins shuffled slowly down the halls. Holding hands, the two young males around the age of ten stared listlessly down the white, sterile looking walls. Dark circles were prominent under the shorter twins' grey eyes, half-lidded and bloodshot.

Voices, voices. An endless cacophony of words, images, sounds, and emotions. Never ceasing, even after promises of making them disappear so the headaches could cease. He could no longer discern where his thoughts began or ended, all he had was the warmth of his twins' hand, his anchor.

Why couldn't humans keep silent?

Something warm settled on his shoulder. A hand. Resisting the urge to flinch, the smaller twin squeezed his brother's hand, fighting back his whimper at the overload of sensations hitting him at just a touch.

Did they do this on purpose or were they really so ignorant about their own test subjects?

“P-047?” Her voice came out soft, tempered with caution. Stopping, the twins tilted their heads to look up at her, feline-shaped ears tilting up in response. P-047 blinked, eyelids dropping just a bit more before he forced them to open fully.

“Yes, Dr. Sinha?” He ignored the way her dark brows furrowed at his deadpan voice. Out of all of the doctors in the laboratory, he understood her the least. Although she disliked the practices which went on with the two of them, she still participated in them and felt in the end she was doing the right thing for humanity and Centarians alike. Without even trying – or desiring – P-047 slid past the implants which were supposed to block his abilities and delved into her mind.

Her nervousness was the first emotion he picked up, along with some sort of unique test the 'higher-ups' wanted conducted today. An experiment along the lines of new and improved implants, criminals, and law-enforcement. Really bad criminals. His stomach clenched, topped with his constant migraines made him want to vomit. There wasn't too much to guess from those thoughts, P-047 was familiar with what the laboratory's benefactors wanted.

I'm here. Another squeeze and pressure began to lift from his mind, as if being sucked out. The voices and images became muted and muffled. P-047 cast his brother a small smile. Dr. Sinha noticed, but didn't comment. She never did, only recorded notes on her little data pad.

“The Judicators have brought...some people here today that they need your help with. They have implants that their Centarians can't penetrate to get the evidence they need.”

“You're only agreeing to help because you want to know what they have in their heads you haven't been able to figure out.” P-047's brother spoke up, looking away in disgust.

Crossing her arms, Dr. Sinha sighed and gave the two a lopsided smile. “Yes, P-046, that is exactly right. Will you be able to keep your brother anchored? We know he's already penetrated through the latest dampeners and implants the lab has created, we're not trying to overload his mind.”

“We?” P-046 challenged. “Or you?” His stance became more defensive, pulling P-047 closer, a fierce scowl on his tiny face.

“Both.” Another sigh and Dr. Sinha crouched down to their level, her hand moving through P-046's pale hair. “This is important, but I will tell them to come back if your brother can't handle the strain. Just say the word.”

I hate her attempts to act nice to us. P-046's thoughts rang in clear through the haze in his brother's mind. She's not our mother, she's a scientist and we're her lab rats. If she really wanted to be kind to us, she'd stop having the others hurt you like this.

“It's okay.” P-047 looked down at his covered feet, leaning closer to his twin. “I'll do it.”

It does hurt, but I believe Dr. Sinha when she says that my efforts will help everyone. P-047 defended. If they can block me out, maybe they'll be able to find a way for me to block them out. I want to believe in them.

037. Six Sentence Sunday pt 7

2011-03-27T03:18:00.000-07:00

Chuckling at her confusion, Pavien offered his arm, which Rhiannon numbly took. “My father is an extremely busy elf, so could not come to receive you and asked me to come in his stead. But I can tell you're probably not too disappointed.” Laughing again, he began to guide her inside the Liunos estate, keeping his attention straight ahead.

Rhiannon quickly recovered, once again irritated at her future husband's lack of appearance despite his supposed claims of falling in love with her at first sight. Very well, she would simply have to use the son to gain the ammunition she would need for the real battle ahead.

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036. Character Stats: Naliel Liunos

2011-03-25T07:04:00.000-07:00

Just some basics on the main character from Destined. No spoilers! :)

Elemental Affinity: Earth
DOB: 22 Winter (This planet has the same seasonal rotation as Earth, so there are 90-91 days per season)
Height: 5'10
Family: Lavern Liunos (father), Rhiannon Liunos (Mother), Sarnaiel Liunos (Adopted brother)
Favorite Color(s): Green and brown
Favorite Food(s): Anything dairy or sweet(a mixture of the two is wonderful)
Least Favorite Food(s): Anything sour or overly salty.
Hobbies: Wood carving, archery, swimming
Martial Specializations: Archery(Master), Swordsmanship (Expert), Hand-to-Hand (Average)

Personality: Being the son of the ruler over Liunos lands, Naliel presents himself a certain way so as to leave a good impression for his family. He prefers diplomacy over using fists, and thinking before acting. Generally, he is calm, cool, and collected. He has been known to have a dry sense of humor and tends not to hold grudges.

Because he doesn't want to leave a bad impression for his father, the other elves his age tag him as being a pushover, as he will back away from a fight instead of engaging in them. Growing up, Naliel had somewhat of a big-brother complex, clinging to Sarnaiel like a lost duckling, doing things to impress him. As they grow older, this turns into possessiveness, although he tries very hard not to show it around others.

Naliel is very close to his mother, confiding in her for everything. You can say he's a bit of a Mama's Boy. Although he is not close to his father, the two share a comfortable relationship and Naliel is understanding of his father's situation.

Quotes: "You are so egotistical it's painful."
"Try to get your head out of your ass, not everything is about you."
"I can’t help who I am, Sarna. I think, it’s what I do."
"There are outcasts in every species, but true unity and tolerance must begin from somewhere.

035. Humans in Arcanus

2011-03-21T20:33:00.000-07:00

Human Society in The Arcanus Series

As a Whole

Humans are the youngest race, and hold the largest numbers. They are expansionists, although they avoid Vampire and old Elven territories. Demon territories are a bit different, as they exist inbetween the mortal world and their own dimension.

Their lifespan is significantly shorter than any other race, typically a human lives for up to the age of 150 if they're lucky. The oldest human was recorded at the age of 187. Reproduction rates tend to be much higher because of this, a human can have large families, some even reaching an unprecedented double digit number of children. No other race can accomplish this feat. History boasts the High Elves being envious of this, as they treasure family but cannot produce the same numbers.

Technology

Unlike the other races, who rely more heavily on magic, humans focus more on technology, as they are unable to communicate with the spirits and acquire Attunements. While the clothing style is reminiscent of a mixture of our Middle Ages and Victorian, their technology is closer to our 1900's. Cars, trains, and airships run off of a combination of magical stones and steam-based technology. These stones are mined and were typically refined by Elves prior to their disappearance over two centuries ago. They are now done so by lower caste Vampire clans and Mixed, up until the time of the Crimson Tides.

Religion

Humans believe in their own gods, instead of the gods and goddesses of old. Their patron god is known as Aularian vol'Lerum, the one who lords over all. Nobility is said to be descended from Aularian vol'Lerum, which is why noble males have adopted the title of 'vil' in their names. Legend has it that Aularian vol'Lerum defeated the god of death, Qirani vir'Ristalair by learning His Truename and dominating Him. Only noble males are legally allowed Truenames, as they are 'descended' from Aularian and his human lover, Primira enli'Zespiani.

There are other minor gods in their stories and legends, but Aularian, Qirani and Primira are the main focuses. There are temples and cathedreals dedicated to them all over the 13 kingdoms and the Empire itself. Humans are typically not devout, with exceptions of course. Religious ceremonies which include the masses are normally participated in for traditions' sake and for the significance of that day as opposed to actual worship. Nobles pretend to be more devout than most, if only due to their status.

Government

Humans exist in a caste/heirarchy system. There is one empire which encompasses 13 major kingdoms. The Imperial line is supposedly directly descended from the gods. Family names are important to nobility and middle class. While there is flexibility in what a noble can do, as opposed to other castes, it is not by much.

Kingdoms are split into cities, towns, and villages. A governor runs a city, a mayor a town, and villages are ran by the people as long as taxes are paid and laws are obeyed. Slavery and indentured servitude is prominent among the lower classes, especially concerning low-end brothels and underground fighting arenas. Nobility tend to frown on slavery, although some do have them.

Law enforcement is also divided by social status. City Guards deal with most typical law enforcement issues, but nobility trials and courts are handled by the royal court itself. Towns also have a smaller set of armored guards who keep the peace. Knights handle issues which span multiple kingdoms, and are the military force which goes to war if need be.

Society

One can fall down the social ladder, but rarely can they rise up. Casteless(those who do not hold surnames) can never become middle class, middle class can never become nobility. Not even a king can grant nobility, and this is where religion comes in. Only if one can prove that they are somehow related to the gods, even distantly, can they become nobility. This can be done, although rare, if by some chance a noble or their family disgraced themselves and were stripped of their status. Should, generations down the line, an individual of that line were able to prove themselves through tremendous deed, a king could grant the individual their noble status and offer them a position within the court.

Casteless families are by law required to acquire specific tattoos along their body at the age of ten years. They are not allowed to have family names and they are the lowest rungs of society. These individuals work for no pay, those who hold jobs are practically servants/slaves. In exchange, they are provided with food and lodging, although the work is usually grueling and unsafe. Lower middle class tend to take advantage of this with brothels and other businesses of 'ill respute'. Very many casteless are homeless, thrown into their own area separate from normal society to survive. Escaping a life of depraved poverty usually leads to becoming nothing short of a slave. Criminals, the black market, and underground slave trade exist in these areas.

In the caste system, middle class families hold the occupations given to them by their king during the founding of the kingdom. A family of tailors remain tailors forever. Doctors, lawyers, crafters, etc. Those who own high slave-market goods like brothels and underground arenas are socially disgraced individuals who managed to keep their heads above water just enough to not be thrown down into the casteless society. Stripped nobles hold the majority of these numbers. Certain families are known to be better than others, similar to nobility, and marriages are effected by this. For example, the son of a tavern/inn owner would never be allowed to marry the daughter of a doctor and vice versa.

When it comes to 'higher' or 'lower' nobility, this is determined by the noble society and the court's favor. Families become more powerful or influential as long as they have backing. If looked upon fondly by the king, their finances increase accordingly. This can be tricky, because a family can still do well financially (The Foclner house is a good example) as long as their work and progress pleases the king, but can bomb sociallty with their peers and be frowned upon. Although the Foclner house is favored by the king, the fact that their daughter caused a massive scandal by running off with servant dropped them so low on the social ladder other noble families refuse to even deal with them. Only a king can strip a noble of their status, but it doesn't make them any less sociably acceptable.

Only noble males hold Truenames and titles. For example, in Transcendence, the main character's full name is Rorizin vil Wesser. 'Rorizin' is his Truename, 'vil' is his title, similiar to 'Lord', and Wesser is the family name. Not even his family would address him by his Truename unless in private and the situation is of importance. 'Rori' is the name he and others will present. When a person reveals their Truename, it is a sign of trust and deep friendship. Speaking one's Truename in public is legally punishable unless the individual has committed a crime or is stripped of their social status.

Females, in human society, are viewed as the weaker species. Not even the goddess Primira holds a Truename, as She in beneath Her lord, Aularian. Unmarried females gave a first, middle, title, and family name, example being the character Hannah Oria en Zolts. When a female noble marries, the middle name is dropped and she dons her husband's last name. For example, if Hannah married her bethrothed Kaden vil Larchs, her name would become Hannah en Larchs. This is not optional. Females do not hold the same privilages as males do, with the exception of widows. A widow may be allowed to run her late husband's estate only if she has a male heir. If she does not, typically the next male in line in her husband's family would take over the family estate.

Middle class families normally live in certain areas together if not in the same large house. Noble estates are large mansions which hold a series of several smaller houses for immediate family members. Both social castes do arranged marriages, although lately nobles have been allowing their sons to interact and 'choose' females by the age of eighteen. If undecided, the family will choose from the best prospects. This is to provide the illusion of free will.

Academics

Middle class individuals are taught their trade from home. Knowledge in subjects such as history, science, math, etc are given between the ages of seven and thirteen. Afterwards, the child begins to work for the family trade. Females are taught other wifely skills so they may take their place as a proper spouse for their future husband. This is the same for nobility.

Nobles attend academies based on their gender. Those who prove to hold high martial skills may proceed to the special knights program at the age of fifteen. By eighteen, they may join the ranks of the knights if they pass their special training. Academies accept children from the ages of seven to eighteen. Technically, children must pass an entrance exam, but normally this is not done. Varicen vil Foclner was an example, as he came from a socially disgraced family. He is also one of the few children to pass the exam with perfect marks.

Male academies teach a myriad of subjects, much more intense than middle class schools. There are requirements for students to meet in order to graduate, such as being fluent in 2 different human languages (Imperial is normally recommended as one), being profecient in at least one musical instrument, etc. Exams are given at the end of each term. Students can be classified by year based on the color tie they wear. The exception to this are those with Silver ties. 'Silver's are those who score the highest in their entire year and encompass the student council known as The Society. Those who continue to keep their Silver status over the years can become a Dorm Brother, an individual who basically runs one of the six dormotories in the academy. All issues go to him and he ensures everything involving the dorm is taken care of with the Dorm Master.

Female academies are not nearly so structured, but no less rigid. Their classes focus mostly on the arts and propriety.

Racial Interactions

Humans are untrusting of other races, and tend to only deal with them if necessary. They once held a semi-strong alliance with the elves until they disappeared centuries ago. There are Mixed(Vampire/Human hybrids) who live among humans, but usually as casteless. Some feel humans treat them better than their vampire masters.

Vampires- Vampires don't deal with anyone, much less humans.

Dragons - For all humans know, these creatures are things of myth and legend.

Demons - Humans hate demons thanks to the previous Demon King of the East, Warex. He became addicted to devouring human souls (see more on Demons) and his people invaded villages and towns, raping and killing. They actually began to take over human territories until Gladian, Demon King of the North interfered. By then, the damage was done and humans now despise demons with an utter passion. The terms Incubus and Succubus come from that dark time.

Although a human organization, information on the Crimson Tides will be in a separate post. Hope you enjoyed reading this tidbit about my world!