So I just sketched out the big final action sequence of Dream Flyer.
It feels sooooo strange! For Book 1 of Undead War, I had NO clue how I was going to end it until I was about 3/4 done. (At the time, I didn't even know there was going to be more than one book). In Book 2, I knew what was ultimately going to happen, but it was a very vague outline. For Book 3, it's the same way. For Dream Flyer, I know exactly what's going to happen and even have snippets of dialog.
This is definitely the most planning I've done for my writing so far.
Now, I know myself. There will definitely be twists and turns when I actually get there - possibly major alterations even, but it does feel good to have that target sitting there. I know where I'm headed. One of the big events even brought tears to my eyes, so I know I'm definitely on the right track. Don't worry though, no spoilers.
In other news, I met up with some folks from my region for nanowrimo. Good bunch of people so far (and all ladies... kinda strange). I can't wait to meet with them again and chat some more. It's always so inspiring to talk with people who share a love of writing! Our municipal liaison is enthusiastic, energetic and friendly; in short, she's awesome!
On that note, I'm making it a priority to listen to more Writing Excuses, a podcast by one of my all-time favorite authors, Brandon Sanderson. He and a few other writers discuss all of their experiences and offer up advice on how to craft good stories.
To wrap this post up, I want to add that I really hope my experience with Nano makes me a better writer overall. My goal is to be published by a company someday, maybe even one of the big ones. It's one of the things I really want to focus on when I ultimately retire.
Ahhhh..... The Future!
Thursday, October 25, 2012
Monday, October 22, 2012
On The Hunt! (Scene from Dream Flyer)
Shadows slide across the the floor, silent but moving with a purpose. A young woman of Latino descent speaks with an older blonde man. She giggles and lays a hand on his arm, her brown eyes glittering with obvious attraction.
Unnoticed, the shadow slowly stakes the shape of a man and slips closer to the couple. Two slits appear in the thing's face and form into a glowing red eyes. A mouth forms and twists into a cruel, toothy smile.
The man grins at the woman and says in a smooth voice. "Wait here while I get us some drinks."
A soft raspy chuckle emanates from the shadow as the man walks away. The woman shivers suddenly and wraps her arms around herself. The dark shape rises from the floor, tall and sinister. A gleaming knife blade appears in its right hand.
"Hello darlin'..."
Short scene, but this is the set-up for the first attack by the "Shade" in my latest project, Dream Flyer. I originally wrote this in my notebook while sitting at Starbucks because I couldn't get imagery out of my head. I cannot wait to get this far into the book as this really scene leads to some major revelations about the main character, Dina and what is really going on with her.
Unnoticed, the shadow slowly stakes the shape of a man and slips closer to the couple. Two slits appear in the thing's face and form into a glowing red eyes. A mouth forms and twists into a cruel, toothy smile.
The man grins at the woman and says in a smooth voice. "Wait here while I get us some drinks."
A soft raspy chuckle emanates from the shadow as the man walks away. The woman shivers suddenly and wraps her arms around herself. The dark shape rises from the floor, tall and sinister. A gleaming knife blade appears in its right hand.
"Hello darlin'..."
Short scene, but this is the set-up for the first attack by the "Shade" in my latest project, Dream Flyer. I originally wrote this in my notebook while sitting at Starbucks because I couldn't get imagery out of my head. I cannot wait to get this far into the book as this really scene leads to some major revelations about the main character, Dina and what is really going on with her.
Tuesday, October 16, 2012
Drabble 5: My Little Krogan
Missed a few days because I finished my latest Psych episode and took a little time to play some Torchlight 2. Getting back on track though so here's a little excerpt from one of my favorite characters in one of my favorite video games, Grunt in Mass Effect. I love trying to get into the character's heads and think about what they're doing when Shepard isn't around. I may do a couple more of these in the next couple weeks.
I stare through the reinforced glass of the room that I woke up in. Below me, the cargo deck filled with crates. I know they contain food and weapons and supplies but I don't care. I keep looking at the Kodiak - the shuttle that takes us out to planet-side missions. My heart rages in my chest and my blood boils. It's been days since I got to see the spray of blood from my enemies; hear the tearing of flesh and crunching of bone; taste the tang of unfiltered air.
I need to get out of here.
Shepard promised me combat and my body screams out for that promise to be delivered. I understand now that this is normal for my people. We were born and bred to fight and nothing will change that, not even curing the genophage, the plague that stopped my people from over-running the galaxy. I don't care about domination or revenge or my heritage or my future.
I need to kill something.
Okeer whispered to me in the tank. He told me our history and what it meant to be krogran. He showed me images of our people and the glorious battles they fought. But until I watched my first enemy fall before me, none of those words or pictures meant a damn thing. Watching that thresher maw fall and seeing those traitorous scum bleed out on the same battlefield. That taught me everything I need to know.
I need something to eat.
I stare through the reinforced glass of the room that I woke up in. Below me, the cargo deck filled with crates. I know they contain food and weapons and supplies but I don't care. I keep looking at the Kodiak - the shuttle that takes us out to planet-side missions. My heart rages in my chest and my blood boils. It's been days since I got to see the spray of blood from my enemies; hear the tearing of flesh and crunching of bone; taste the tang of unfiltered air.
I need to get out of here.
Shepard promised me combat and my body screams out for that promise to be delivered. I understand now that this is normal for my people. We were born and bred to fight and nothing will change that, not even curing the genophage, the plague that stopped my people from over-running the galaxy. I don't care about domination or revenge or my heritage or my future.
I need to kill something.
Okeer whispered to me in the tank. He told me our history and what it meant to be krogran. He showed me images of our people and the glorious battles they fought. But until I watched my first enemy fall before me, none of those words or pictures meant a damn thing. Watching that thresher maw fall and seeing those traitorous scum bleed out on the same battlefield. That taught me everything I need to know.
I need something to eat.
Wednesday, October 3, 2012
Episode 4: The Phantom Drabble
Halloween is coming and I LOVE this time of year! Here’s a little something to set the mood, inspired by the Slender Man. If want a good scare, check out Slender Man on youtube and specifically the long-running episodic posts from Marble Hornets. Creepy Stuff! Anyway, on with the show!
——————
Stillness descended on the rural town. One by one, the lights winked out in the houses scattered along the quiet streets until the only illumination came from the street lamps. The moonlight was muted by a thin layer of clouds and the stars were barely visible. This quiet would be peaceful if not for the underlying tension in the air, a palpable feeling of fear and dread.
Something stalked the streets.
Moving through the shadows, a lone figure slipped from one patch of darkness to another with silent, gliding steps. An inky blackness seemed to follow this creature, for it could not be considered a man. Its torso and limbs were elongated, like a shadow of a man cast by a distant light. Its skin was pale and withered like old parchment. There were no eyes, no mouth, no nose - its face was just warped flesh.
Wherever it moved, the darkness grew and in that deepening shadow, it looked even less human. Black tendrils stretched outward, writhing and grasping. It made no sound and the air around the creature became deathly still.
Eventually it came to stop in front of small ranch style house. The porch light flickered like a candle. Curtains fluttered in the second story window and a pair of large frightened eyes could be seen in the sputtering glow.
The light finally went out with a soft pop and a shower of sparks as darkness surged toward the house.
Tonight, the phantom will feed.
——————
Stillness descended on the rural town. One by one, the lights winked out in the houses scattered along the quiet streets until the only illumination came from the street lamps. The moonlight was muted by a thin layer of clouds and the stars were barely visible. This quiet would be peaceful if not for the underlying tension in the air, a palpable feeling of fear and dread.
Something stalked the streets.
Moving through the shadows, a lone figure slipped from one patch of darkness to another with silent, gliding steps. An inky blackness seemed to follow this creature, for it could not be considered a man. Its torso and limbs were elongated, like a shadow of a man cast by a distant light. Its skin was pale and withered like old parchment. There were no eyes, no mouth, no nose - its face was just warped flesh.
Wherever it moved, the darkness grew and in that deepening shadow, it looked even less human. Black tendrils stretched outward, writhing and grasping. It made no sound and the air around the creature became deathly still.
Eventually it came to stop in front of small ranch style house. The porch light flickered like a candle. Curtains fluttered in the second story window and a pair of large frightened eyes could be seen in the sputtering glow.
The light finally went out with a soft pop and a shower of sparks as darkness surged toward the house.
Tonight, the phantom will feed.
Tuesday, October 2, 2012
Drabble the Third: Musician
I got behind on my Drabble-A-Day entries over the weekend due to a lack of time and energy. So to make up for it, here is another second one for today. I think the inspiration is clear. I hope you enjoy it.
—————
She spins like maple seed caught on the breeze. Colorful silken fabric rustles and snaps with crisp whip-crack sounds. Her hair, unbound, tumbles over her shoulders as she comes to a stop in front of me. Our eyes meet. A flirtatious wink makes my heart flutter and I find myself grinning back at her.
She turns away again and her body begins to undulate to the slow pulsing rhythm of the drum. I wet my lips and bring the mouthpiece of my clarinet back into position. My breath slides over the reed as my fingers flow over the shining keys of my instrument. I close my eyes and let the music ripple outward from my heart and soul.
A connection is made: sound and movement intertwined in a pattern that can only be described as sensual. When I open my eyes, she stands facing me, her hips sliding back and forth hypnotically while her arms and hands weave a slow, intricate pattern. We stare at each other, lost in a moment of passion while the music swirls around us.
Finally, she turns away to face the crowd once more. They watch her adoringly but very few of them are aware of the link that has been forged. As long as the music continues, she and I are one.
—————
She spins like maple seed caught on the breeze. Colorful silken fabric rustles and snaps with crisp whip-crack sounds. Her hair, unbound, tumbles over her shoulders as she comes to a stop in front of me. Our eyes meet. A flirtatious wink makes my heart flutter and I find myself grinning back at her.
She turns away again and her body begins to undulate to the slow pulsing rhythm of the drum. I wet my lips and bring the mouthpiece of my clarinet back into position. My breath slides over the reed as my fingers flow over the shining keys of my instrument. I close my eyes and let the music ripple outward from my heart and soul.
A connection is made: sound and movement intertwined in a pattern that can only be described as sensual. When I open my eyes, she stands facing me, her hips sliding back and forth hypnotically while her arms and hands weave a slow, intricate pattern. We stare at each other, lost in a moment of passion while the music swirls around us.
Finally, she turns away to face the crowd once more. They watch her adoringly but very few of them are aware of the link that has been forged. As long as the music continues, she and I are one.
Drabble #2: My Little Time Traveller
Last weekend, my daughter was watching Phineas and Ferb yesterday (thank you Netflix!) and after an episode involving time travel, she said those exact words from the first line of the scene below. Later, my wife and I watched the latest Doctor Who and I couldn't get her little voice out of my head. This drabble was born. Enjoy!
--------------------
“I wish I had a time travel device to go meet my ancestors!” The young girl’s voice cut through the stillness of the lazy Sunday morning.
The girl’s father sat behind his desk, sipping his coffee and watching over her while cartoons played in the background. A small smile slid over his lips as he muttered softly to himself, “that’s my girl.”
“I know daddy, I have to be careful though. If I change anything, it could cause a pair of ducks. I don’t know why that’s bad, but the Doctor guy with the blue box - he said it could really mess everything up.”
“I think you mean ‘paradox’, honey.” he said, the grin becoming wider. ”And yeah, those are very bad. Has mommy been letting you watch our shows again?”
She played with her dolls, not answering for a little while. Distractedly, she responded “No, I just had a long talk with the man. He was really funny. He asked if we had any fish fingers, but I laughed at him and said that fish don’t have fingers. I hope he comes back again some day.”
Goosebumps appeared on his arms as a cold shiver ran up his back. ”What man are you talking about? Who was it?”
She turned an angelic smile up at him and said matter-of-factly, “Yep! That’s him!”
--------------------
“I wish I had a time travel device to go meet my ancestors!” The young girl’s voice cut through the stillness of the lazy Sunday morning.
The girl’s father sat behind his desk, sipping his coffee and watching over her while cartoons played in the background. A small smile slid over his lips as he muttered softly to himself, “that’s my girl.”
“I know daddy, I have to be careful though. If I change anything, it could cause a pair of ducks. I don’t know why that’s bad, but the Doctor guy with the blue box - he said it could really mess everything up.”
“I think you mean ‘paradox’, honey.” he said, the grin becoming wider. ”And yeah, those are very bad. Has mommy been letting you watch our shows again?”
She played with her dolls, not answering for a little while. Distractedly, she responded “No, I just had a long talk with the man. He was really funny. He asked if we had any fish fingers, but I laughed at him and said that fish don’t have fingers. I hope he comes back again some day.”
Goosebumps appeared on his arms as a cold shiver ran up his back. ”What man are you talking about? Who was it?”
She turned an angelic smile up at him and said matter-of-factly, “Yep! That’s him!”
Tumblr Time!
Hey All!
I haven'e been active on here lately, and for that, I do apologize. Between here, Facebook, Twitter and Tumblr, I'm finding it hard to keep up. I really need to start linking these places together. One thing I have started doing that's been fun is writing a Drabble-A-Day on my Tumblr site. (For those of you who don't spend time around Fan Fiction sites, a "drabble" is a short scene which is not attached to a larger story.) Rather than send you over there, however, I'll be posting the drabbles here as well.
The first one I did was a scene involving my main character in Star Wars: the Old Republic. He was a Sith warrior who married a cute little Twi'lek smuggler named Vette. I always thought their relationship was incredibly cute and thinking about their relationship, this scene was born:
------------------------------------
“Vette, have you seen my spare saber hilt?” I had to shout to be heard over the low hum of the engines. The Emperor’s Wrath, indeed. Crawling on the floor of the engine room and squeezing into spaces way too small for someone of my …stature.
“And why would you think I’d have it, oh great and powerful sith lord?” My wife’s voice had a sharp edge to it that I’d come to recognize and dread; the tone that usually preceded a round of scathing remarks. It amazed me that so much passion and fire could be contained in a creature so small and beautiful, but then, that was one of the reasons I married her.
With a hand on her hip, she continued scathingly. ”You think I stole it or something? Maybe I pawned it on our last trip to Nar Shadda. Is that what you think? Maybe your ‘apprentice’ borrowed it or that walking fleabag! Why would I take your stupid saber thingy?”“
I turned to look at her. Even sitting on the floor, I barely had to tilt my head to look into her glittering eyes. ”Actually, my love. I was asking you because the last time I had the ‘saber thingy’, it was attached to my belt. The one that you pulled off of me and threw across the room during our last stop in port; when everyone else had shore leave…”
Her eyes became wide and a dark flush spread across her aqua-colored skin. An almost shy smile slid over her lips and she slid down onto the floor next to me, her lithe form pressing against mine as she wriggled under the metal pipes. Now her voice was soft, playful, and just a bit breathless.
“I’ll help you look.”
I haven'e been active on here lately, and for that, I do apologize. Between here, Facebook, Twitter and Tumblr, I'm finding it hard to keep up. I really need to start linking these places together. One thing I have started doing that's been fun is writing a Drabble-A-Day on my Tumblr site. (For those of you who don't spend time around Fan Fiction sites, a "drabble" is a short scene which is not attached to a larger story.) Rather than send you over there, however, I'll be posting the drabbles here as well.
The first one I did was a scene involving my main character in Star Wars: the Old Republic. He was a Sith warrior who married a cute little Twi'lek smuggler named Vette. I always thought their relationship was incredibly cute and thinking about their relationship, this scene was born:
------------------------------------
“Vette, have you seen my spare saber hilt?” I had to shout to be heard over the low hum of the engines. The Emperor’s Wrath, indeed. Crawling on the floor of the engine room and squeezing into spaces way too small for someone of my …stature.
“And why would you think I’d have it, oh great and powerful sith lord?” My wife’s voice had a sharp edge to it that I’d come to recognize and dread; the tone that usually preceded a round of scathing remarks. It amazed me that so much passion and fire could be contained in a creature so small and beautiful, but then, that was one of the reasons I married her.
With a hand on her hip, she continued scathingly. ”You think I stole it or something? Maybe I pawned it on our last trip to Nar Shadda. Is that what you think? Maybe your ‘apprentice’ borrowed it or that walking fleabag! Why would I take your stupid saber thingy?”“
I turned to look at her. Even sitting on the floor, I barely had to tilt my head to look into her glittering eyes. ”Actually, my love. I was asking you because the last time I had the ‘saber thingy’, it was attached to my belt. The one that you pulled off of me and threw across the room during our last stop in port; when everyone else had shore leave…”
Her eyes became wide and a dark flush spread across her aqua-colored skin. An almost shy smile slid over her lips and she slid down onto the floor next to me, her lithe form pressing against mine as she wriggled under the metal pipes. Now her voice was soft, playful, and just a bit breathless.
“I’ll help you look.”
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