Wednesday Briefs: Dracula #1 (1.0)

 Good morning and Happy Hump Day! If it's Wednesday, then it must be time for more flash fiction from the Wednesday Briefers! We're a group of authors who bring you our finest flash fiction every week, 500 to 1000 words, inspired by one of our prompts.

As promised, I have begun a new story, after saying good-bye (for now) to Vinnie and Ethan. Right now, all I have is a working title, which is Dracula, but I am excited to see where this takes me, and I hope you enjoy this first glimpse of my characters. Don't forget to visit the other Briefers and see what's up with them. Their links follow my tale! Enjoy!

Dracula #1 (1.0)

The room was richly appointed with the trappings of luxury. Oriental tapestries blanketed the narrow windows of the ancient castle and vibrant Persian Isfahan wool rugs dotted the cold stone floor in handwoven elegance. Some of these were the spoils of war, others acquisitions from Sotheby’s. While a relatively young establishment, having only been founded some thirty years previously, the auction house had already attained an international reputation as a purveyor of fine art. The sole piece of furniture in the room was an intricately carved mahogany bed set upon a raised dais. Wrought iron candelabra several feet in height on either side of the bed provided a gothic ambience, while the lit candles imparted to the tableau the aura of an altar.

The sole occupant of the bed lay in serene composure, his very stillness resembling the repose of the inhabitant of a casket. Hands folded chastely across a well-formed chest that did not appear to either rise or fall with the usual demands of a breathing being, for during his slumber there was no need to pretend to such normalcy as none were present to bear witness to such a phenomenon should it occur. During the waking hours was another story entirely, for none could ever say that the current Count Dracula did not appear normal in every way. Some might even say that this handsome young man was blessed in many ways.

A light step outside this very chamber was followed by the entrance of a slender figure, his dark tailcoat a somber note that contrasted with the opulence of the surroundings. From one hand he swung a bronze censer with flattened sides and various rectangular openings and holes. This was attached by chains to a bell-shaped cap, at the end of which was a small hook decorated with a wolf’s head. In the other hand he held an ostentatious glass goblet whose ruby contents glistened almost enticingly, one of a set that had been specially ordered at great cost from a glass maker in Venice. By far the greatest attraction to, the Count lay in its ornate dragon stem, as he had a natural predilection for anything to do with dragons.

The rich fragrance of dragon’s blood exuded from the censer. Exotic and earthy, it carried notes that ranged from erotic sandalwood to earthy pine needles, woody musk to floral amber. Enticing and sensual. The newcomer wafted the censer over the sleeping figure, letting the smoke drift about his head before he placed the censer carefully on the floor and turned to regard the figure in the bed, his expression unreadable. He waited a few moments to allow the incense to have its usual effect before speaking.

“I know you’re awake, milord, so let’s not keep pretending and let us start our day, shall we?” he said, even though technically speaking, it was evening.

A small smile played about the lips of the supine figure before quickly disappearing, as if to deny it had ever been. “You are a most insolent servant, are you aware of that, Avram?” The man’s voice was melodious, his slight accent enchanting, while his words rolled off his tongue in graceful waves.

“Yes, milord, I am aware of that. It would be hard not to be, as you tell me so on a constant basis.”

“Good, then we shall not discuss the matter any longer and you will be more mindful of your manners in the future.”

“Yes, milord.” And that seemed to settle that, although both men knew differently.

Incense was the preferred method of awakening for Count Dracula, and dragon’s blood his favorite scent, although he was also fond of opium, sandalwood, and frankincense. He invariably arose from a day of repose with an appetite, hence the second of Avram’s offerings.  Possessing reflexes much sharper than mortal men, Dracula rose from the bed in one fluid motion, barely ruffling the long silk nightshirt he slept in. Being of a sensitive nature, Dracula ordered such shirts in quantity from China, where the finest of silken garments was produced, whenever he was able to afford them. He was especially partial to those with a dragon design, but he was not immune to the charms of beautiful floral patterns, especially those that combined soft, light-colored flowers that represented the feminine yin with bolder, more dominant flowers that exemplified the masculine yang. He found the combination soothing and the silk most comfortable.

 Long used to his master’s quirks, Avram handed him the blood-filled goblet without a word and adjourned to the adjacent dressing room where he had already prepared his master’s clothing for the evening—a pinkish mauve silk coat, with matching waistcoat and breeches in an alternating diagonal weave, dotted with blue, white, and indigo flowers. Personally, Avram thought the suit ugly, but the Count had taken a liking to it. And what the Count liked, he got… generally speaking. Some things were beyond even his means. Despite giving the appearance of wealth, alas, such was not the case as the family coffers had run rather dry over the years. Not surprising when one’s lifespan is greater than that of most men, and one’s appetite for the finer things in life as well. It was also in his best interest to pump what money he could into the local economy in the small village of Bistritz. Keeping the villagers relatively happy, as he’d learned from past experience, was better than running the risk of unhappy townsfolk armed with pitchforks and torches attempting to make kebab out of them.

So Dracula and his faithful, as well as his only, servant had learned to be creative in their acquisition of funds.

to be continued

I hope you enjoyed the first chapter of Dracula, now go see what the other Briefers are up to!

Cia Nordwell

J Ray Lamb

 

 

 

Saturday is Horror Day #150 - The Green Inferno, Willow Creek, Silent Night, Deadly Night 4: Initiation

 The Green Inferno

Justine (Lorenzo Izzo) has the best of intentions when she joins with a group of fellow do-gooders to travel to the Amazon to stop the damage being down to the ecology by a major company. But she learns to her dismay that she was recruited for a reason, and her life was put on the line. The students' protest ends with them being put on a plane to return home.

But things go wrong when their plane crash lands in the jungle, and the young people find themselves lost 

in a hostile environment. They were previously told that the natives are less than friendly. They are about to find out how true that is, and that female genital mutilation is not a myth! And neither is cannibalism!

Eli Roth's film is notorious for the cannibalism, headhunting,  and brutality depicted, and that is true.  This film is raw and gory, make no mistake about that. But it also isn't a particularly good film, either. I don't think it was well done, too focused on grossing people out to worry about anything else. The opening is slow and clunky, and the acting is nothing to write home about. I had to google the ending to understand it, and I realized that that point didn't really come across very well when I was viewing it. I found Cannibal Holocaust more shocking than The Green Inferno (although not very good either). I hear there may be a sequel, and the ending is open to that interpretation. I'll give this film 1.5 Stars.

Willow Creek

Jim (Bryce Johnson) is a Bigfoot enthusiast, his dream being to sight the elusive cryptid. His girlfriend Kelly (Alexie Gilmore) is not quite so interested, but she likes him enough to agree to visit Willow Creek, alleged home of Bigfoot. Willow Creek is the place where the infamous film footage of an alleged sighting was taken in 1967. Jim's dream is to find that site and locate Bigfoot himself.

Jim and Kelly visit all the Bigfoot related businesses in town and interview various town folk before 

heading into the wild. They find themselves in the middle of the deep forest, where they pitch their tent and begin their search. It seems like they are destined to be unsuccessful in their endeavors, until things begin to happen, and they end up huddled together in their tent, terrified... but of what?

It's worth noting here that this film was written and directed by Bobcat Goldthwait. This isn't a horror film in the gory, bloody sense, but I have to tell you, there is quite a bit of nail-biting suspense when Jim and Kelly are in their tent, and you can only hear but not see what is outside the tent. I really liked this film, and I would watch it again. Although the ending was unclear and I had to look up what happened, giving another layer to the film. I give this film 4 Stars.

Silent Night, Deadly Night 4: Initiation

Kim (Neith Hunter) is a would-be reporter who can't stop thinking about the mysterious death of a woman who inexplicably threw herself off the top of a building. Her boss Eli (Reggie Bannister) doesn't believe in her enough to give her the assignment, so she takes it upon herself to investigate and finds herself involved with a group of witches led by Fima (Maud Adams).

This fourth installment in the series really has no relation to the others, at least in terms of plot. One 

might make an argument for the brief scene in which a character is watching Silent Night Deadly Night and intones "Santa Claus killer!" But that's a weak argument  at best, despite the fact that Clint Howard plays a character named Ricky, who beings the movie as a silent sidekick but becomes suddenly quite loquacious and thoroughly creepy.

Despite this film having a few somewhat recognizable - Maud Adams was once a Bond Girl, Clint Howard is Ron Howard's brother and has done some really creepy films of his own, Allyce Beasley was in Moonlighting and Reggie Bannister was my favorite character in the Phantasm series - this movie is beyond horrible. Terrible acting, writing, directing, and the story.... think Rosemary's Baby, but with insects. I would avoid this one unless, like me, you are a glutton for punishment. I'll give this film 0 Stars.

Wednesday Briefs: Bad Karma and the Family Plan #98 (20.7)

 Good morning and Happy Hump Day! If it's Wednesday, then it must be time for more flash fiction from the Wednesday Briefers! We're a group of authors who bring you our finest flash fiction every week, 500 to 1000 words, inspired by one of our prompts.

Well, all good things must come to an end, and so does our story. Thank you for coming along on this journey with me and the boys. Now let's see what the final word is for Vinnie and Ethan and this book! Don't forget to see what the other Briefers are up to. Their links follow the conclusion of my tale, and next week will see a new story begin! Enjoy!

Bad Karma and the Family Plan #98 (20.7)

“To be honest, that wasn’t very hard. I mean seriously, that woman’s IQ is probably in the single digits. Much like that of her gay bosom buddy, Troy Whatshisface, future AIDS victim.”

“What about you?” Ethan countered, showing remarkable restraint, I thought, when all I wanted to do was plant my fist in that smarmy face. How dare he say that about Troy? “Weren’t you giving it to Eva June’s fiancé? And God knows how many others. Have you been tested lately?”

“I get tested on a regular basis,” Chip came back quickly. “Don’t worry, I won’t infect your little play toy. I just want to show him some sweet sweet loving, that’s all. He needs to know what else is out there in the world besides you. Right, sweet cheeks?” The smile he gave me was horrific. My stomach turned at the sight. Guess I should have moved faster when I had the opportunity. My bad.”

“Let’s get back to business, shall we? You realize your IP address on those emails you exchanged with Caroline is traceable, right? And everything you instructed her to do, laid out to the tiniest detail? Guess you didn’t want to leave anything to chance, did you?”

Chip laughed. “With a birdbrain like that, one can never be too clever.” He turned suddenly toward me. “Tell me, Vinny, how old were you when you had your cherry popped? Were you an early bloomer, or were you waiting for your Prince Charming to arrive on his faithful steed to sweep you away? Shame you didn’t wait a little longer, till I entered your life.”  He slapped the table with his manacled hands, which jingled, as if he’d made the best joke in the world.

Ethan laid a restraining hand on my arm, but it wasn’t necessary. I suddenly saw Chip for the pathetic coward he was, and any power he might have held over me dissolved in that moment. I would never fear this man ever again. He was nothing… less than nothing. And just as clearly, I realized why we were here. We didn’t need Chip to confess, or even explain himself to us. Ethan had brought me here to get the closure I so badly needed. To put the boogey man to rest and take away any power over me he’d once held.

The Florida Mangler was going away for a long long time. Despite his claims to the contrary, I didn’t think he’d ever see the light of day again.

A weight had lifted from my shoulders and from my soul. I began to laugh then, but if Chip thought I was chuckling at his wit, he was sadly mistaken. I glanced at Ethan, who was smiling at me, as if he understood, his beautiful blue eyes shining.

“Chip, you keep telling yourself that,” I said, turning my gaze to Chip. “But don’t worry, I’m sure there are plenty of guys where you’re going who’ll be glad to accommodate you. Although, I’d worry that there might be some who wouldn’t mind being known as the one who took out the Florida Mangler. I mean, when you’re a lifer, you have nowhere else to go, right?”

I took in a deep breath and exhalted it slowly. “Ethan…?”

“Yes, love?”

“I think it’s time we blew this popsicle stand. Nothing to see here.”

“You’re very right about that,” he agreed.

“Have a nice life, Chip,” I said. “And try not to drop the soap in the shower.”

Ethan and I rose at the same time, ignoring the frustrated howls from the prisoner. That’s what he was and what he would always be, from now on. Where he deserved to be. We couldn’t save Eva June, but we did avenge her death.

Ethan knocked on the door, and the guard let us out. I think Chip was yelling something, but I’d tuned him out. Never again would I let him get to me. Stick him with a fork, he’s done.

We walked out of the jail into the bright sunlight and paused to let our eyes adjust.

“Vinny, I’m so proud of you.” Ethan’s warm voice enveloped me like a hug. “I knew you had it in you. Just wanted to make sure you’d be all right.”

I knew he meant the bad dreams, and the way his name had made me almost cringe in terror. No more of that, ever again. “Thank you, Ethan.”

We reached out car and he slid his arms around me, held me close. “For what? I didn’t do anything, you did.”

“For believing in me. And helping me to believe in myself.” I closed the short gap between us and kissed him with all the love in my heart. “I think it’s time to pick up Benny, check out of the motel and head home now. Close this case and put it behind us.”

“You’re absolutely right, Detective Delarosa.” Ethan kissed me softly.

“Not to mention, Detective Thorne, we have to get ready for our new roomies.”

That would be a challenge, but one I was more than happy to face.

The End

 Now go see what's up with the other Briefers!

Cia Nordwell

J Ray Lamb

 

Saturday is Horror Day #149 - Silent Night, Deadly Night 3: Better Watch Out, Saw V

 Silent Night, Deadly Night 3: Better Watch Out

Ricky Caldwell (Bill Moseley) lies in a coma and has for six years, after being shot in order to end his deadly rampage. Doctors don't know when or if Ricky will ever awaken. Laura (Samantha Scully) is a blind young woman who has a talent that some might call ESP - despite her lack of sight, she sees things in her dreams/mind that she can't explain. Dr. Newbury (Richard Beymer) is trying to help her understand and use these talents, but she is skeptical of the doctor's studies and wishes to end her participation. During a particularly violent dream, her screams seem to have awakened Ricky. Let the blood bath begin anew....

This is the sequel to Silent Night Deadly Night 2, despite the fact that the part of Ricky was recast. After seeing this movie, I have to believe Eric Freeman read the script and said no. This film makes the second one look like a masterpiece. Where do I even start?

 First off, if Ricky was shot in the chest in the second film, why is he wearing that weird protective device over his exposed brain? (Btw, I guess we just need to forget there was another Ricky, no explanation is given for his changed looks). This Ricky does not how "Revenge!" or "Garbage Day!" with great glee, in fact he says very little and shows no emotion whatsoever. But make no mistake, he is still a killer. And now his focus is on Laura. Why? Couldn't tell you. Terrible plot, horrible script, terrible direction, sets, and cinematography, and very very bad exacting. Even Richard Beymer and Robert Culp (yep, that guy from I Spy) couldn't save this. Also, there is Eric DaRe, whom I remember from Twin Peaks (oddly, his character was in a similar type situation as Ricky, almost Frankenstein-like). I didn't recognize DaRe at first, thinking his character was cute.  Don't ask me why, I requested the next one, where we have another actor playing Ricky. I'll keep you in suspense until I watch and review it. I am giving this film .5 Stars. I only hope #4 is better, but I am not holding my breath on that.

Saw V

Mark Hoffman (Costas Mandylor) emerges as a hero in the wake of Jigsaw's death, but Agent Strahm (Scott Patterson) is suspicious, believing that he was meant to perish with the others and unexpectedly he lived. He begins to search Hoffman's past, as well as the previous Jigsaw murders. Meanwhile, five people awaken in a perilous situation, and a new game is afoot

One person Strahm seems to be focused on for information is John Kramer's (Tobin Bell) ex, Jill 

(Betsy  Russell). But she knows nothing, as her ex never made her privy to his plans, so she can't help him. Meanwhile, the five people are trying to navigate this new situation they find themselves in. Jigsaw, as usual, has left them clues, but will they do what it takes to emerge alive?

I liked watching the evolution of Mark Hoffman as John's assistant, as well as the struggle of the five people. They have the clues at their fingertips, if they'll only pay attention. As with any Saw film, there is gore and there is peril. In the end, Strahm proves to be his own worst enemy. I also appreciate that Jigsaw is still very much a part of the film series, despite John's death. There are clearly twists and turns yet to be uncovered, and I look forward to seeing them. I'll give this film 4 Stars.

Wednesday Briefs: Bad Karma and the Family Plan #98 (20.7)

 Good morning and Happy Hump Day! If it's Wednesday, then it must be time for more flash fiction from the Wednesday Briefers! We're a group of authors who bring you our finest flash fiction every week, 500 to 1000 words, inspired by one of our prompts.

Well, all good things must come to an end, and so does our story. Thank you for coming along on this journey with me and the boys. Now let's see what the final word is for Vinnie and Ethan and this book! Don't forget to see what the other Briefers are up to. Their links follow the conclusion of my tale, and next week will see a new story begin! Enjoy!

Bad Karma and the Family Plan #98 (20.7)

“To be honest, that wasn’t very hard. I mean seriously, that woman’s IQ is probably in the single digits. Much like that of her gay bosom buddy, Troy Whatshisface, future AIDS victim.”

“What about you?” Ethan countered, showing remarkable restraint, I thought, when all I wanted to do was plant my fist in that smarmy face. How dare he say that about Troy? “Weren’t you giving it to Eva June’s fiancé? And God knows how many others. Have you been tested lately?”

“I get tested on a regular basis,” Chip came back quickly. “Don’t worry, I won’t infect your little play toy. I just want to show him some sweet sweet loving, that’s all. He needs to know what else is out there in the world besides you. Right, sweet cheeks?” The smile he gave me was horrific. My stomach turned at the sight. Guess I should have moved faster when I had the opportunity. My bad.”

“Let’s get back to business, shall we? You realize your IP address on those emails you exchanged with Caroline is traceable, right? And everything you instructed her to do, laid out to the tiniest detail? Guess you didn’t want to leave anything to chance, did you?”

Chip laughed. “With a birdbrain like that, one can never be too clever.” He turned suddenly toward me. “Tell me, Vinny, how old were you when you had your cherry popped? Were you an early bloomer, or were you waiting for your Prince Charming to arrive on his faithful steed to sweep you away? Shame you didn’t wait a little longer, till I entered your life.”  He slapped the table with his manacled hands, which jingled, as if he’d made the best joke in the world.

Ethan laid a restraining hand on my arm, but it wasn’t necessary. I suddenly saw Chip for the pathetic coward he was, and any power he might have held over me dissolved in that moment. I would never fear this man ever again. He was nothing… less than nothing. And just as clearly, I realized why we were here. We didn’t need Chip to confess, or even explain himself to us. Ethan had brought me here to get the closure I so badly needed. To put the boogey man to rest and take away any power over me he’d once held.

The Florida Mangler was going away for a long long time. Despite his claims to the contrary, I didn’t think he’d ever see the light of day again.

A weight had lifted from my shoulders and from my soul. I began to laugh then, but if Chip thought I was chuckling at his wit, he was sadly mistaken. I glanced at Ethan, who was smiling at me, as if he understood, his beautiful blue eyes shining.

“Chip, you keep telling yourself that,” I said, turning my gaze to Chip. “But don’t worry, I’m sure there are plenty of guys where you’re going who’ll be glad to accommodate you. Although, I’d worry that there might be some who wouldn’t mind being known as the one who took out the Florida Mangler. I mean, when you’re a lifer, you have nowhere else to go, right?”

I took in a deep breath and exhalted it slowly. “Ethan…?”

“Yes, love?”

“I think it’s time we blew this popsicle stand. Nothing to see here.”

“You’re very right about that,” he agreed.

“Have a nice life, Chip,” I said. “And try not to drop the soap in the shower.”

Ethan and I rose at the same time, ignoring the frustrated howls from the prisoner. That’s what he was and what he would always be, from now on. Where he deserved to be. We couldn’t save Eva June, but we did avenge her death.

Ethan knocked on the door, and the guard let us out. I think Chip was yelling something, but I’d tuned him out. Never again would I let him get to me. Stick him with a fork, he’s done.

We walked out of the jail into the bright sunlight and paused to let our eyes adjust.

“Vinny, I’m so proud of you.” Ethan’s warm voice enveloped me like a hug. “I knew you had it in you. Just wanted to make sure you’d be all right.”

I knew he meant the bad dreams, and the way his name had made me almost cringe in terror. No more of that, ever again. “Thank you, Ethan.”

We reached out car and he slid his arms around me, held me close. “For what? I didn’t do anything, you did.”

“For believing in me. And helping me to believe in myself.” I closed the short gap between us and kissed him with all the love in my heart. “I think it’s time to pick up Benny, check out of the motel and head home now. Close this case and put it behind us.”

“You’re absolutely right, Detective Delarosa.” Ethan kissed me softly.

“Not to mention, Detective Thorne, we have to get ready for our new roomies.”

That would be a challenge, but one I was more than happy to face.

The End

 Now go see what's up with the other Briefers!

Cia Nordwell

J Ray Lamb

 

Saturday is Horror Day #148 - We Need to Talk About Kevin, Saw IV

 We Need to Talk About Kevin

Every expectant parents dreams about the baby they are having, of their hopes and dreams for the new life they are bringing into the world. But sometimes reality is a far cry from what they envisioned.  Such is the case with Eva (Tilda Swinton) and Franklin (John C. Reilly). From the beginning, Kevin (Jasper Newell) was different. At first nonverbal, he was strong-willed and defiant. If he didn't want to do something, he didn't do it, and no one and nothing could make him do it. Even after he began to speak, he was rude and condescending. He refused to be toilet trained and was wearing diapers when he was six or seven years of age, deliberately soiling himself to force his mother to clean him up.

Eva tries, but he pushes her away at every turn. And when Franklin is around, he doesn't exhibit the same 

psychotic behavior. Eva is at her wit's end. Getting pregnant again was not on her agenda, but it happened, and they welcomed a daughter, Celia (Ashley Gerasimovich). Celia is a sweet child, who adores her older brother, despite the horrible way he treats her. An unexplained accident leaves the poor girl with only one eye. Eva knows who is to blame, but nothing is done. She tries to talk to her husband but he doesn't listen because he doesn't want to hear or see what she does. And then the unthinkable happens...

This is a very chilling story, one which will especially resonate with parents. Love isn't always the answer, and not all children are sweet and innocent. Some are just born bad. The story goes back and forth between the present and the past, and what leads up to the present. You can figure out something is wrong by the things you don't see in the present. What do you do when your child is a monster? Is there a point at which unconditional love has to take a back seat to reality? Tilda Swinton is great as Kevin's mother, and Jasper Newell shines as Kevin. It's a hard film to watch, yet very compelling at the same time. I give this film 4 Stars.

Saw IV

John Kramer (Tobin Bell) may be dead, but the games are far from over. John's legacy continues through his newest assistant. Who is that? That would be telling, now wouldn't it. Now let the games continue!

The Saw franchise is far from over, and new puzzles await. Detective Rigg (Lyriq Bent) is put to the 

test, as are various other law enforcement officials, such as Agent Straham (Scott Patterson) and Detective Hoffman (Costas Mandylor) and Agent Perez (Athena Karkansis, who you might remember from Manifest).  As usual, John's games target those who deserve punishment for something, but he gives them a chance to save themselves, but at a price.

This installment is not lacking in gory games or twists and turns that will leave you wondering what the heck is going on, and who is playing a game of their own. I'll give this film 4 Stars.

Book Review: One Piece, Vol 1: Romance Dawn by Eiichiro Oda

 

One Piece, Vol 1: Romance Dawn

Author: Eiichiro Oda

Publisher: Viz Media

American release date: June 1, 2003

Format/Genre/Length: Paperback/Manga/Action & Adventure/216 pages

Overall Personal Rating: ★★★★★

 

Just before Gold Roger, the “King of the Pirates”, is beheaded for his crimes, he’s asked for the whereabouts of his treasure. His reply—that it’s still out there in the world somewhere, and free to the person who finds it—triggers the start of a great era of piracy!

A pirate ship has made its base in a small harbor village for the past year. A young boy in the village, Monkey D. Luffy, is determined to be a pirate and go with them on pirate adventures. When they refuse to take him seriously, he shows them he means what he says by stabbing himself beneath his eye! Although they are amazed that he’s done that, nothing changes. Pirate Captain “Red Hair” Shanks reminds him that a pirate has to be able to swim, and Luffy can’t do that—he has a tendency to sink like a stone. Luffy refuses to give up on his dreams, no matter how nicely the pirates try to let him down. He is determined that he shall learn to swim!

When a big blustery mountain bandit named Higuma comes into the tavern and tries to rile up the pirates, they refuse to fight, to Luffy’s dismay. He pegs them as cowards and yells at them. However, when he tries to storm away, he makes a startling discovery—because he stole and ate the gum-gum fruit the pirates took from an enemy ship, his body is now rubbery and stretchy! Furthermore, as the captain informs him to his chagrin, now he’ll never be able to swim!  Oh no!

Luffy has a lot to learn about what constitutes true courage!

Ten years later, his real adventures begin.

Still determined to become the king of the Pirates, Luffy sets out in a small boat, with no real sense of direction but a whole lot of determination. An encounter with a whirlpool leaves him in the company of the pirates of the dread lady pirate Iron Mace Alvida. Here he meets Koby, a timid young man who’s been enslaved by her against his will, and only wishes to join the Navy. Luffy befriends Koby and instills in him a courage and fortitude he’s sorely lacking. After they leave her, Luffy confides that he is assembling a super pirate crew in order to seek Gold Roger’s treasure, known as “One Piece”. He’s heard about a really good swordsman who’s imprisoned at the naval base, named Roronoa Zola, and he’s determined to add him to his crew. Koby is a bit skeptical.

They reach the naval base, which is under the command of Captain Morgan, and his despicable, cruel, effeminate son Helmeppo.  Zolo is a prisoner, tied to a post in the naval yard. But when Luffy approaches him for possible recruitment, he says forget it, it’s only for a month, he can tough it out. Luffy soon discovers that things are not as they appear to be.

 

Can Luffy rescue Zolo? And even if he does, can he convince him to join his pirate crew? What of the despotic Captain Morgan and his horrible son? Can Luffy help Koby attain his lifelong dream of being in the navy, or will their acquaintanceship put an end to Koby’s chances?

First off, I know, I’m slow at getting to this. That being said, I wasn’t sure what to expect, despite the fact that it’s a long-running series. That doesn’t mean it’s for everyone. I quickly discovered that it’s really quite funny and very entertaining, and I’m looking forward to reading more.

Monkey D. Luffy is quite the character, and a fitting hero for this series. His ability to be rubbery at will, and also to withstand bullets, is pretty cool, and not something you see in your average hero. He’s young and enthusiastic and determined—traits which will carry him a long way. Eiichiro Oda doesn’t play to stereotypes. The pirate captain Shanks isn’t what you’d necessarily expect in a pirate, and neither is his crew. I like the artwork, it matches the story well, even to the exaggeratedly big mouth that Luffy has, a common characteristic I notice in Oda’s characters.

This book is rated for teens, but I think it would be enjoyed by all ages. It’s first and foremost an adventure tale, so there will be fights, but it’s not what I’d call particularly gory. If I have any complaints with the artwork, it would be that his girls tend to look more like boys. But that’s not really a complaint so much as an observation.

I enjoyed the first volume and look forward to reading more. Yes, I know he’s up to like 100 now. Guess I’ll be reading for a while!

Wednesday Briefs: Bad Karma and the Family Plan #97 (20.6)

  Good morning and Happy Hump Day! If it's Wednesday, then it must be time for more flash fiction from the Wednesday Briefers! We're a group of authors who bring you our finest flash fiction every week, 500 to 1000 words, inspired by one of our prompts.

While Ethan is trying to get the truth out of Chip, aka the Florida Mangler, he is doing his best to get a rise out of Ethan and Vinny. Who will emerge victorious? See what's happening in this week's chapter of Bad Karma and the Family Plan. Don't forget to visit the other Briefers and see what's up with them. Their links follow my tale! Enjoy!

Bad Karma and the Family Plan #97 (20.6)

“I’m not going to dignify your stupidity with an answer,” Ethan said in a voice filled with disdain. “You’re just a shit-disturber, Chip, and you know it. You think you’re someone special because you killed some poor innocent people and managed to make it into the news. You made headlines all across the country and you even got your picture on  national TV. You made people frightened of you and the idea of what you might do to them.  So they dubbed you the Florida Mangler. You think that’s something to be proud of?” Ethan snorted. “You know that there are serial killers out there a lot smarter than you are. How do I know that? Because they’re still out there and you’re here.” He waved his arms to encompass the small room in which we sat.

“Not for long, dickhead,” Chip replied, but I got the feeling his bravado sounded a little forced.

“You tell yourself that, Chip. But DNA doesn’t lie. And neither does Vinny.”

Chip laughed. “And when I tell them he’s my lover, what then? A jilted lover at that. Who will believe him then.”

His words both angered me and wounded me, probably at the idea that people might actually believe I would ever have anything to do with this scumbag. Before I could respond, Ethan had taken the ball and run with it.

“Vinnie with a piece of shit like you?” He shook his head. “Vinnie’s way out of your league. No one would believe that for a minute. Not to mention you put him in your trunk.” I felt Ethan’s hand tighten in mine, and I realized what self-control he must be exerting not to fly across the table and beat that asshole right there and then. “Do you treat all your so-called dates that way?”

“Only the special ones.” Chip’s smile was chilling as he turned toward me. “Aren’t you afraid you might end up like your little buddy? Eva May? Eva April? What was her name again? Oh yes, Eva June.”

This time Ethan gripped me a little more tightly. But surprisingly I wasn’t about to react in any violent way. He wasn’t worth it.

“You got to her when she was the most vulnerable. You made her believe you were someone you weren’t, gained her confidence and then took her life. That’s nothing to be proud of, Chipper, now is it?”

Chip’s smile faltered just a little more before he turned toward Ethan, nodding his head to indicate me. “See why I love him so? He’s such a wit.”

“And yet you can’t have him,” Ethan replied. “Sucks to be you.” He quickly changed the subject before Chip lost his temper and turned even more petulant than he was. No telling what this mercurial menace might do, including concluding our interview. If he decided we were out, there would be nothing we could do about it.

“So, how did you convince Caroline that you were William Faulkner, the director?”

To my surprise, Chip smirked.

to be continued

Go visit the other Briefers and see what's new with them!

Cia Nordwell

J Ray Lamb

Saturday is Horror Day #147 - Gonjiam: Haunted Asylum, Unfriended: Dark Web

 Gonjiam: Haunted Asylum

Gonjiam Asylum is listed by CNN as one of the seven freakiest places on the planet as well as the creepiest place in Korea. Which makes it a natural attraction for thrill seekers and attention seekers. Especially what is said to be the most haunted place in the asylum - Room 402. So far, no one has gained entry to that room. And some have disappeared in the attempt...

Ha-joon (Wi Ha-joon) is the driving force behind the Horror Times, a web-based horror series. He has a 

goal in mind - one million views - not just for the accomplishment but, of course, for the revenue such numbers will generate. And what better place to do this than in the notorious asylum of Gonjian? He assembles a team and makes his plans. While they sneak inside the asylum, he operates the control center and live streams it to his hungry audience.

Everything is ready for a most profitable evening. However not everything is as it seems, as Ha-joon doesn't believe in leaving things to change. So just maybe everything is not on the up-and-up. Everything is wonderfully scripted with moments of sheer genius when the team genuinely freaks out at what they experience. But just when has everything changed?

I have to say that this is a most creepy and spectacularly horrifying film in every sense of the word. Even when you begin to doubt the reality of what you are seeing, you can sense that the line between what is fake and what is real is thinning all the time until you have no idea what might happen next, or what has actually already happened... and why. The atmosphere is off the charts, the scares are genuine, and yes, I did jump, although most of the scares are far from predictable jump scares. Be prepared for the unexpected because this movie really delivers. You may recognize Ha-joon, as he played the young detective in the Squid Game. Very well done and very genuinely terrifying. I give this film 5 Stars.

Unfriended: Dark Web

Matias (Colin Woodell) is working on an app that will make communication between himself and his deaf girlfriend Amaya (Stephanie Nougueras) better. He seems to be getting nowhere, however, and she is becoming more and more frustrated with him. It doesn't help that his laptop is crappy, which makes both communication and working on the app difficult. So when he notices a laptop in the lost-and-found for three weeks at the cafe where he works, he seizes the opportunity as well as the laptop.

Of course, he has to figure out how to get into it, since it's locked. But the answer is surprisingly easy. 

He skypes with Amaya to show her the app and what he has done for her, but she remonstrates with him, tells him he's making it easy for her to understand him but not him to understand her. She leaves the chat and he logs into his friend's group for a game of Cards Against Humanity. But there's something odd about the laptop. He asks his friend AJ (Connor Del Rio)who suggests that it's full. And maybe there are secret files. So Matias does some digging, and what he finds will change their lives forever...

Although the sequel to Unfriended, which I reviewed previously, this is a stand-alone film and doesn't involve any of the characters from the other movie. I confess to being a little confused at first, not understanding what was happening. It doesn't help that I found the texting hard to read at times and a little fast. But then everything began to come together, and I found myself fascinated as I watched everything unfold. This is an edge-of-your-seat kind of film. You never know what is real, what isn't, and what might happen next. Terrible decisions have to be made, ones I would never want to have to make. I enjoyed the acting of everyone, they were all believable, as was the script and the direction. Be aware that there are four alternate endings. I watched them all. Well done. I'll give this film 4.5 Stars.

Wednesday Briefs: Bad Karma and the Family Plan #96 (20.5)

 Good morning and Happy Hump Day! If it's Wednesday, then it must be time for more flash fiction from the Wednesday Briefers! We're a group of authors who bring you our finest flash fiction every week, 500 to 1000 words, inspired by one of our prompts.

The conversation between Vinnie and Ethan and the Florida Mangler continues. See what's happening in this week's chapter of Bad Karma and the Family Plan. Don't forget to visit the other Briefers and see what's up with them. Their links follow my tale! Enjoy!

Bad Karma and the Family Plan #96 (20.5)

“You want to talk to me about your engagement? How sweet.” His eyebrows raised in an affectation of surprise even as he glanced back and forth between us. “So, I take it you’d like some advice? Color schemes? Menu choices? What font to use on your invitations? Ask away. Mayvbe you’d like me to give the bride away?” This was said with a wink at me.

As if.

Ethan’s response was to laugh, a deep, rich sound that showed me he wasn’t in the least intimidated by this lowlife scum sitting before us. I wish I could have said the same.

“If we wanted or needed that kind of assistance, Chip, you would be the last person we would ever turn to for advice.”

Did I imagine Chip faltered for just a second before he immediately came back with, “Oh darn, does that mean I won’t make the guest list either?”

“You got that right,” I managed to get out, which only produced a grin from him.

“Okay, enough of this, I’m going to get right to the point, Chip,” Ethan said in a no-nonsense voice. “This has got to stop. Now.”

I knew Ethan intended to question Chip about everything that had been happening to us, to Uncle Benny… to all of us. But I hadn’t expected this. I tried not to let my surprise show, but Chip wasn’t focused on me. He was intensely regarding Ethan, his bland expression revealing nothing.

“Whatever do you mean?” he asked in a voice filled with disdain. The flip side of the coin. From laughing prep boy to cynical narcissist at the speed of light. “To what this do you refer? I assume you don’t mean my current accomodations, which are temporary at best. Amazing what a good lawyer can do. And, of course, the right judge.” He winked at me agan. Shivers coursed down my spine.

Maybe this had been a mistake after all.

“I mean I know you’re the one who put Caroline St. Clair up to everything she did, thinking she was auditioning for some supposedly legitemate director. William Faulkner? Really? Maybe she didn’t catch on, but we certainly did.”

“I have no idea what you’re talking about.” Chip gave an overly loud yawn and patted his mouth to show his boredom, along with more than a touch of contempt. “You mean that lovely actress from the Civil War drama I’ve heard so much about?”

I was startled for a moment that he knew about a film that hadn’t even been released yet, but then I realized people were probably talking about it already. After all, it was also a Troy McGarrett film, and he did hold a certain place in the hearts of moviegoers. A deserved place. Plus he was a great guy offscreen. I could think of nothing nice to say about St. Clair other than she was safely locked up in a rich person’s mental health facility, at least for now.

“You know very well who I mean,” Ethan replied. Beneath the table, he squeezed my leg for reassurance. He knew how mention of that particular actress agitated me.

“I heard the two of you were once engaged,” Chip replied. “Was that before or after you became engaged to dear sweet Vinnie here?”

How did he even know about that?

 to be continued

Now go see what the other Briefers are up to!

Cia Nordwell

J Ray Lamb