Escapist World

One More Time (15)

2009-09-19T14:48:00.003+08:00

PREVIOUSLY: I quickly jump up and head to the other end of the table and grab Hunter’s hand and yank him up. We head towards the door, and just as I’m about to open the door, I hear Ian shout out...

‘Era! Wait!’

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 18: I turn back and Ian is standing up and heading towards us. He hands me Hunter’s coat that I had left on the back of my chair.

‘Oh! Thanks Ian. See you around, okay?’

‘Sure thing, Era’

He holds my gaze for a moment then takes a step towards me. The next thing I know, he’s hugging me and whispers in my ear,

‘Don’t wear Hunter’s coats. They don’t do you justice.’

Ian keeps me in that hug for a few moments, before Hunter loudly clears his throat. Ian then releases me, gives an incredibly smug smile to Hunter and heads back to the table, where Carolyn looks so mad, that I’m surprised smoke isn’t coming out of her ears and nose.

Hunter holds the door open for me, he’s wearing an expression that tells me he is exerting a lot of self control by not going up to Ian and ripping his head off. We head to Hunter’s car, where he holds the passenger side door open for me, and I slide into his comfortable black leather interior. He goes around and climbs in then starts the engine. He hits the accelerator and we zoom away from the cafe at a speed that would have caused any police patrol to come chasing after us with the sirens on.

‘Are you okay?’

‘Okay? Why wouldn’t I be? You just got hugged by that filthy Ian, it’s not like he hugged me or anything. Why should I have a problem with that?’

‘Please don’t be mad. I’m sorry. I didn’t know he was going to hug me. Come on, Hunter! I can’t stand you being mad at me.’

Hunter takes his eyes off the road, and looks at me, he gives me a small half smile and pulls over on the shoulder of the road. He turns in his seat, until he’s facing me, his right legged tucked under him.

‘I would never be mad at you, Era. Don’t worry about it, okay? I’m just pissed that that filthy human thought himself worthy enough to touch you. How about you though? Are you okay?’

‘Me? Of course I am, why would I be anything but fine?’

‘I saw your face when Carolyn kissed Ian. You looked so broken, and it was all I could do to stop myself from giving Ian a knock on the head!’

‘Oh. That. Well, I guess it’s not that big a deal, I mean he is her boyfriend after all. It’s just that I started hoping again, and he seemed to care...and I thought things would be different, after he said that he loved...’

But I was unable to continue my sentence. Hot tears started rolling down my cheek, and my breathing went shallow. Before I know it, I’m sobbing, I didn’t even realize how painful it was to watch Carolyn with Ian. Hunter gets out of the car and slams his door. I feel like kicking myself. Here I go again, spilling tears for Ian. Poor Hunter...

My door opens and Hunter crouches down beside my seat. He pulls me into a tight embrace and allows me to completely ruin his shirt with my tears. We just stay in that position until my sobs subside. Eventually he releases me and holds me at arm’s length.

‘Let’s head to your house, we can talk things over. I don’t really care for sight-seeing anyway. And honestly, don’t take this the wrong way, but you look a mess Era. Let’s get you cleaned up, then we can sit around your room and just goof off, sound good to you?’

He flashes me his smile again, and I can’t help but to smile as well.

‘Fine! But while I clean myself up, you have to get us a movie to watch and some hot chocolate for me to drink.’

‘Deal! I’ll even add those weirdo little marshmallows into your hot chocolate.’

Hunter chuckles and heads back to the driver’s seat. Ten minutes later, Hunter is parking his car in my father’s garage, and we walk up to the mansion. Jasper holds the doors open for the both of us and we head up the stairs to my room. I head off to the bathroom to make myself look presentable, while Hunter hunts for a movie and gets me my hot chocolate with marshmallows.
Half an hour later and the both of us are comfortably seated in my queen-sized bed watching some horrible movie Hunter found in my closet.

‘This is possibly the worst movie I have ever seen! In my entire life! And I’ve seen plenty of horrible movies.’

‘Why are you complaining? I found this movie in YOUR closet! It’s YOUR movie. Obviously SOMEONE used to have some pretty horrible taste in movies.’

‘Ugh! Whatever!’

I flick a spoon full of coloured rice at him, and half of it gets stuck in his hair.

‘Oi! Now I have to wash my hair...again! Thanks, Era!’

‘Hey! I feel like hitting the clubs tonight. Interested?’

‘Era, when have I ever said no to clubbing?’

So we pause the movie, grab our coats and head off to Hunter’s car. We end up driving around for a bit before stopping over at a random night club that seemed quite deserted. Now, I know it’s pretty dangerous to go to a deserted night club, but I’m a vampire, and I have Hunter, so I’m guessing that I’m pretty safe.

‘Hah! You are so not dressed for a night club, Era!’

TO BE CONTINUED,
pseudonym

Hey you guys! Decided to continue with the series after all. Haha. Don't worry, I have like 30 parts done already, so I'll just keep posting them. But please excuse the slowness, exams are approaching and the like. Anyway, thank you so much for all the comments on the previous installment. I loved your questions! Happy reading XD!

A Not So Ordinary Life Chap. 3

2009-09-18T19:55:00.006+08:00

This story is a compilation of occurrences throughout the week. Most of them happening to my close friends. Reader discretion is advised. (As always)

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

“A-a-a-….ART!?!” She shouted at me. Though I wouldn’t blame her, walking in on someone while their naked with their half-naked(and very horny) roommate does require a very big reaction. With my Beanie pulled over my eyes and my head titled upwards, I quickly try to explain, but in the current situation, only gibberish escapes my mouth.

“Art? WOW. This boy's hotter than I thought, even his name turns me on.” I’d rather not describe this part right here. I realized that Amber felt very insecure, so I just started for the door when Amber suddenly darts out to grab my arm with an alarming ‘wait’. With my beanie over my eyes, I couldn’t really see her facial expressions, but by the tone of her voice I could tell she wanted to do some explaining herself.

“Since, it’s clear that you’re not into… well, peeking, I guess I don’t mind staying like this.” I feel her gaze focus completely on me, not knowing when she will put on some clothes, these just increase my distress in the room. She softly lifted the beanie from sheltering my eyes, and assured me I could open them. Slowly, I opened my eyes and watched as she sat there next to, whoever her roommate is, still in that towel. I flushed red when I saw a bit of her cleavage, which made me reluctantly look up at the ceiling.

“He’s so cute like that! Amber, can I have him please? Please!” pleaded the roommate.

“No. Just because you’ve taken the virginity of like, a HUNDRED guys doesn’t mean you can take his. Besides, he’s an old friend. I would never do that to him.” She said, protecting me. I was amazed how matured she acted in a situation like this. Both of us got a sudden shock when she suddenly stormed out of the room in only her lingerie.

“What was that abo- wait! Who is she?” I asked.

“My roommate, her name’s Cherie. Perky isn’t she?” She and I shared a short but warm laugh at that statement. “So….”She continued. “Let me start. How’d you get here? Which school are you going to?”

“Well,” I started, “Let’s just say I had an incident with a certain owner of this apartment building. Since I needed a room, she gave me the very best one. As for school, I’m starting tomorrow.” I left out the school, knowing she’d ask anyway.

“And… The name of the said school?” She asked. I shrugged. “Well, if I told you that, it wouldn’t be fun now, would it?” I say, as I lightly touch her nose.

She turned a bright pink in the cheeks, both of us remembering how that was usually the spot that tickled her the most. “Missed me?” I looked at her in surprise.

“Definitely.” I said firmly.

“By the way, I asked you questions. It should be your turn now. Anything you want to ask me?” I thought about it for a moment. What could I really ask in this situation? There was nothing really significant that I needed to know. It’s not like we had to share our time apart to each other right? Not yet anyway.

“Nope, well, yeah I do actually.” Not knowing why I added that last statement.

“And? What is it?”

“You look as beautiful as ever Amber. I’m glad we could meet again. Let’s get together some other time to catch up some more because I doubt this is the best situation to be confessing stories to each other.” I motioned to her towel. She flushed and frantically looked at the ground, fiddling with her fingers. “It might not mean much to you...” She looked up at me as I started, “But, I value the fact that we’re friends. A lot. Amber…” I move closer to her but she pushes me away. Knowing I shouldn’t have said ‘Amber’ when the talent wore off. I just turned and walked away. I turn back one last time and look at her, that deep, warm gaze staring back at me. I just smiled at her. That was all I could manage without my talent.

As I walked slowly to the elevator; I was bored so I decided to count down the steps to the corner to the elevators’. 18… 10… 6… 4… 2… 1…. And before I knew it I was looking at the ceiling, head throbbing and consciousness slowly fading….

\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/ (Cool Transition time~!)

“Whoa. Art?” I couldn’t believe I actually manage to knock him out with a glass coke bottle. It just slipped from my grip, so when I tried to grab it in midair (all Matrix-Style) I accidentally punch it and send it flying to this unsuspecting guy turning the corner, who turns out to be the guy I just happen to want to sleep with.

He is right there in front of me, and I can do whatever I want with him. Drug him, and bring him to some broom closet or just do it right here. And yet….

It still wouldn’t be right. Intercourse was supposed to be special, even someone like me knows that. Not some One Night Stand, it has to be an action of infatuation over the other counter-part. So I did the only thing I could do. I checked his pockets and found his key card numbered ‘211’. Rich boy, to be living in the grand suite level. So I dragged him over the corner and into the elevator to bring him back to his room.

Just like any other innocent bystander in lingerie would do.

\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/ (Cool Transition time again~!)

I saw her drag him past the corner. I mean, how could I leave him just like that? I should have said something. Instead, I just made him angry. Ugh! Stupid, Stupid, Stupid! I was chasing her, when the elevator closed. The numbering on the top of the door showed 15… 17… 20… She was going to have him. In HIS OWN ROOM?! I have to stop this. What if that maid of his finds out, or worse… Joins in?!?

I spammed the elevator button so I could go up, but that’s the one downfall of being in a big hotel. The elevators take forever to reach your floor. I had put on a quick night gown before I went out, so running up the stairs was out of the question. I didn’t really know why I wanted to help Art. I mean, he’s a friend, but it’s not like I owe him or anything, Right? But still… My heart beats wildly whenever I see him. I long for him to embrace this… these… feelings I have for him. Why doesn’t he have the same!? It’s like at sometimes, he charms you to no ends but at other times, he just seems so clueless! It’s infuriating!

The Elevator reaches.

I step in, determined to save the guy whom I have longed for all these years.

I guess its love, or jealousy. Whatever it is, I hope I’ll be there for him when he needs me.

(Finished)*Just imagine it’s in some cool language*

Nandayo.

Diamante - Derde (Part 3)

2009-09-18T19:41:00.002+08:00

I continued working,

and was suddenly burdened with tons of documents and emails,

and soon, I forgot about the suitcase,

I left it at my desk and there it stayed until office hours were over,

I was packing my things,

and I noticed the suitcase just before I decided to leave,

I took the suitcase and placed it on my lap,

unbuckled it,

and pulled back the leather flap,

and took out the papers that were within.

I read it,

I was confused at first,

unable to comprehend the words that were imprinted on these few pages,

I actually thought that the CEO might have given it to the wrong person,

but I checked the names,

they were of mine's.

It stated that I was to be transferred to Africa,

and the reason was to " To Increase knowledge on company's facilities in the diamond fields,

and to experience company's operations in the field firsthand"

What a load of bullshit,

I mean,

Am I the only one qualified to do this?

It doesnt even mention what job I that I will be taking over,

Wait.

What am I supposed to do there?

Inspect diamonds?

Show the workers how angry the CEO is at them?

Teach them how to write?

I dont even have a clue.

Hmm.

I guess its just one of those temporary field trips,

that never mention anything because its too secretive,

and I might be a liability once I know what the field trip is about.

I might as well take this chance,

before its too late,

opportunities like this are very much rare and always impossible,

McWiggle :p

My Farewell

2009-09-18T17:20:00.003+08:00

So today I just finished my interview with Mr. Tan, who hired me immediately as an assistant manager. I was happy and grateful to him, because I was fresh off the line from University, and was glad for an oppurtunity to work in the firm. I took out my phone to call my parents, when, ironically, the caller ID told me that they were calling me.

"Hey Ma," I answered. "What's up?"

"Alif," My mother's voice sounded weak. "Ain fainted in school. Get over to the hospital now."

I nearly dropped my phone. "I'm on my way," I managed, then I was in the car and off.

My younger sister was prone to these faint spells. From the last visit to the doctor, we were told that should this happen to Ain again, she might not wake up. This was why I was almost killed, driving the speed I was getting to the hospital.

Upon arrival, I noticed my mother talking to the doctor, my father gravely shaking his head next to her. I greeted both of them as is customary, and I asked the doctor for the news.

"Well, it looks as if she'll make it out of here today, Alif. However, we have deemed that it is impossible for her to continue on her regular routine of life, and must stay at home from now on."

This might not seem such a big deal to most people, but my family being as poor as we are, are unable to hire somebody to work full time to take care of my sister. My parents were working overtime just to get Ain her medication. So she would die if nobody took care of her.

I loved my sister, so I volunteered to take care of her, even if it meant giving up my job. I loved Ain more than anything or anyone in the world, and possibly no one could understand how much she meant to me. Eventhough my mum said she would give up her job and stay home, I knew that she wouldn't want to: She loved her job. So I persuaded my parents to let me be Ain's personal nurse.

We were allowed to visit Ain after awhile. She looked exactly the same, except for the colour of her skin. Instead of it's lively warm glow, it was bleach white, with red spots here and there on her hand. She smiled weakly at us, but I just cried. It was horrible to see my sister in that state. I wanted to throw up my lunch.

We took her home that night, along with a big bag of medication. We put her to bed, and we prepared ourselves mentally for what we had to deal with. The medicine was put in a cabinet, which we carried over to her room. We installed a buzzer which was in easy access from her bed, which would alert the house and call our handheld phones if anything were to happen.

The next few days consisted of me waking up early in the morning to coax Ain to take her meds. She slowly swallowed them, as if it pained her, and I held the cup above her lips so she could take a sip of water to wash down the pills. I went into the kitchen to prepare porridge for her to eat, and me as well. I fed her the mess I made while her eyes glazed over the television we had put in her room. That night I did the same: I made porridge and made her eat her medicine.

I did this for the next few weeks. Sometimes I wondered why I was doing this, as I chopped carrots, and washed her clothes. Those doubts would dissapear whenever I entered her room. Ain's smile was the only thing that the sickness couldn't take from her, and even if it hurt her to do so, she never forgot to smile at me whenever I entered the room. I talked to her as I fed her, before I dozed of on the chair next to her bed. I'd do anything for my ten year-old sister.

One morning I got up as usual, and fed her her medicine, and went downstairs to cook some more porridge (I'm so sick of this stuff). As I walked up the stairs, the sound of our creaking floorboards troubled me. There was no one else in the house except me and Ain, and she was in no condition of walking anywhere. But...

She was walking slowly towards me, and as she fell down, I threw the bowl of porridge to one side, and it hit the wall, it's contents spilling out. I caught her, her face a deadly white. In her hands was a piece of paper, where she had scrawled

"Happy Birthday Alif"

In children's handwriting. I had forgotten about my birthday. I thought of naught else save my sister now. And here she was. I felt her pulse.

It was gone.

***

A month after her funeral, Alif went to a cliff nearby his kampong. He looked out at the sea, where the waves were crashing into the cliffs, wearing it out. He did this because it was Ramadan, and he found it easy to fight the hunger off by watching the sea. He would sit there the whole day, silent, and return home to break fast, and the next day he would do the same.

Today, he looked out at sea. For a moment, he thought he saw his sister there in the sea. He shook his head. "Must be the hunger getting to me." Upon glancing a second time, his sister, Ain, was there walking on the waves of the ocean. Alif looked on at her from above. She was glowing a spectral glow, and she beckoned for him to come. Alif looked around him. Then he looked back. There she was, still doing the same gesture again and again, come come come, Alif.

***

The Sunday Times

Man Driven Mad By Hysteria, Jumps To His Death

Editr.

OneShot | First Love

2009-09-15T17:18:00.002+08:00

OneShot will be a series of stories that are inspired by events happening in daily life. It could be mine, or friends. It, as the title says, will be a one-shot story, no continuation. Reader discretion is lightly advised.

This is inspired back trip back to my village, and a chat with a friend.

------

“I don’t want to go back to our village. There’s like, no tech there. I might ‘DIE’!”

As I said that to myself now, I still feel bored. I skipped another stone across the still river, sending patterns of shockwaves. Sigh. Being a techie meant a day was never boring. New tech, new games, new conventions’, new techie styles was usually what filled a techies life. Being a techie in a village, now that’s boring. No tech to work with, nothing to tinker, now that’s a new level of boring.

As looked over the river, a girl seemed to be just sitting down, parallel to me. She was basically just dressed in some short cut jeans short of the knee, and a light t-shirt. Basic farmer wear I suppose. Though somehow, it clung to her figure with alarming tenacity. Country girls were cute too I realized. She was just, enjoying herself. The wind seemed to blow on her gently, sending her hair waving just ever so slightly, and she was looking at the big, beautiful sky, smiling at it, as if she hadn’t a care in the world. I wonder at which point she noticed that I was staring at her. She blushed and waved slightly. I guess some company wouldn’t be too bad. I looked for a way across but in vein. The river seemed calm enough, but it was a very dark blue which meant it was a lot deeper than it actually seemed. Being a techie, I didn’t really know how to swim. It wasn’t that I wasn’t in shape, but more on the lines that I had no outdoor talents. Looking across, I saw her frown. Clearly she would also like company. I decided on one course of action.

It was time to put my techie brain into action.

I looked frantically around for something to work with. When it seemed hopeless, I just sat and decided to look at the sky that she was admiring so much. I expected to see a cloud in the shape of SOMETHING, but there was nothing. It was clear and blue. Just then, I felt a rush of wind in my hair. I heard a faint giggle from the girl, and dismissed it. I was already in techie mode. Air…. Theoretically, Wind is denser than air, so wind is above the air, which is denser than water. If somehow the wind could be used as a medium, then theoretically, anyone could walk on air.

Theoretically of course.

I Look frantically around, the west wind… the next gust… angle of trajectory… designated landing point… aerodynamically factoring body mass. The next thing I knew, I was running. Wind began to pick up and I was off the ground. Half way through, I thought I was going to make it, but suddenly the wind died and I found myself arcing down. Plan B…. Plan B…. Arc! I turned my body into a full axis from my hips as a turning point, trying to extend my flight. I opened my eyes to find myself slamming into a deep, solid blue.

“You act very bright, but you’re definitely not bright after trying a jump like that.”

I coughed up what was left of the river water in me.

“You saved me?” I asked inquiringly.

“I couldn’t just sit here, enjoying myself while you drown, now could I?” She hastily replied.

“What made you guess I couldn’t swim?”

“The fact that you didn’t swim over in the first place.” I was surprised she was quite an intellectual thinker, being a country girl and all. “What made you think I wanted to swim over?”

“That cute smile you made at me.” She smiled warmly at me. I decided not to try to flirt and decided to just make short conversation. Being a techie and all, my flirting skills aren’t up to par.

“You’re the 1st girl to ever say I have a cute smile” I said firmly.

She looked surprised. “Wow, I expected to you have like, a bazilijilion girlfriends.”

Seeing a loophole, I teased her. “There’s no such thing as a bazilijilion.”

“Whatever” She waved the topic away.

“It’s been a long time, I can’t believe after all this time you don’t remember.” She looked off to the distance. Only now did I notice, she was quite beautiful.

“You know, when you were small…”I could sense she started to be in a serious confession kind of mood suddenly. “You and I were best friends.”

“Really? No joke?”

“Yeah! You even promised that you’d come back one day and be my boyfriend.” She blushed after blurting that out.

“Oh..” I could only manage that.

“I’ve had a crush on you since then.” She confessed, looking at me with hopeful eyes.

“That’s one big promise to make in a day.”

“If I don’t say it, someone else might…take..your…”Her lips were in front of mine, as she lay on top of me on the grassy bed next to the river. “First… Love….”

And our lips met.

Nandayo.

Diamante - Tweede (Part 2)

2009-09-11T17:32:00.006+08:00

As I entered the room,

I noticed several things,

it was absolute silence,

save for the few pen clicks and throat clearings.

There was a large oval oak table in the middle of the room,

and sitting all around the table were men in suits,

some fat and old and some were youthful and healthy looking,

but all of them had a similar expression.

Coldness.

and a slight pinch of annoyance,

From that moment on I realized that they were pretty uneasy about me being there,

as if I wasnt on the same "social standing" as they were,

they seem to be expecting something,

a speech maybe.

So I began,

"Good evening gentlemen, My name is Paul Revere Crawford, I apologize for interrupting this meeting, but it is to my knowledge that Mr. Dublin requested for me"

as I finished my sentence,

Mr. Dublin appeared from a door exactly to my right,

he was holding a suitcase,

looking as if he had worked an all-nighter,

and greeted me in a tone that was of sympathy.

"Ohh! There you are, I was expecting you, I have a...I have an offer that I would like for you to think over"

I was confused and very, very unprepared,

if he was planning to transfer me,

or in the worst case scenario,

to fire me.

" I see, I would consider it, but first, I would like to at least know what I'm getting into"

I replied.

He breathed a sigh and answered,

"As you wish"

and handed me the suitcase.

"Think it over tonight, I expect a decision by tomorrow morning. Is that understood?"

I nodded and left the meeting room.

My mind was filled with questions.

What was inside that suitcase?

I decided to at least arrive home before opening it.

The assistant escorted me to the elevator,

and with a smile,

whispered a soft,

"Goodbye"

I smiled and closed the elevator doors.

McWiggle :p

part 2.

A Not So Ordinary Life Chap. 2

2009-09-11T17:21:00.001+08:00

This story is a week’s worth of different experiences and choosing which was suitable for this chapter. Reader discretion is advised. (As usual)

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

IT’S AMBER YOU IDIOT!

“A-a-a-…Amber?”

“Art? Is that you? And whose…” I quickly pushes Que off to my side and helped her up.

“She’s my –“I began, to only be cut off by an unfamiliar “GIRLFRIEND!”

I looked at Que in utter awe. She locked her arms around mine and nudged her head onto my shoulder. I must’ve looked surprised and blank at that point because Amber just shot a questioning look at me. I returned the look and Amber quickly got an idea of Que’s little fib.

“Que, could I borrow Art for awhile?” She asked in an attempt to rescue me.

“Only my Artee-Wartee can all me Que!” She shot an angry look at me, but I just looked away to hide my grin. She quickly let go of my arm and extended a hand to Amber.

“Jacqueline. Jacqueline Leticia Manon, or Que for….” She stopped as she realized she just told Amber, that Que was NOT my special name for her. Me and Amber shared a nice friendly laugh.

“Fine, Fine. Take him and do with him as you wish, but I’m telling you, If he comes back to the apartment with his virginity gone, I am SO not responsible. You hear me Art?” As he turn, I was already walking away with Amber.

“That boy and his flirtatious attitude.” She flushed angrily at the statement and whispered something under her breath as she walked away. “Annoying”

“Let me start. So, where do you live now and why did you come to Region City?” She asked casually, as though we’ve been talking like this for years.

“I live at a room at the Emblem Hotel; let’s just say I came here by a hand of fate. And you?”

“Emblem Hotel? The fancy one a few blocks down?” She asked with a surprised look.

“Anything you want to add to that?” It was clear on my face that I knew she wasn’t telling me anything. “Oh, Nothing at all.” She did a face that made me feel all warm inside. I shrugged the feeling off as ‘coincidence’. We walked for awhile longer in brief silence when finally decided to break it off.

“Why are you here anyway?” She asked enquiringly. I simply shrugged, at said a simple ‘Que’. She laughed at that. It was a sweet, melodic laugh that swayed me for a bit. As her fit ceased, she continued, “You haven’t changed have you?” I wondered what it meant for a moment. She let me dwell on it for awhile until we reached an elevator. I finally gave in and asked, “Changed how?”

“You know, charming girls and all. Que was gorgeous! You sure have a knack for picking them, just like the old days.” She gave me a sly wink and pushed a paper in my hand as she walked into the elevator. Its closing sound told me that I should find Jacqueline.

“ART!!!!!!!!!!” A loud booming voice came from the second floor. Onlookers were searching frantically for the source of the sound. “Get up here before I pull you up here, silly!” Without the hoarse shouting voice, I could tell Que must’ve have clothes. Sigh. The pattern of searching for clothes, trying them on, Que’s evaluation was pretty boring. Like I said, I wasn’t used to these kinds of things. On our walk home, I after checking the clothes and my empty wallet, I decided to read the paper Amber gave me.

‘147’, and that’s not all, it read; can you guess what this means? You’re smart aren’t you? If you do, I’ll give you a very Special present. It ended with Amber’s signature. “What’s that?” Que asked quizzingly. I just turned away to hide my grin, as I knew exactly what this number meant.

“Not going to help with diner Art?” I shook my head in reply and darted out the room. I was going to wear simple clothing, like I normally do. BUT, Que had to style me just because I said I wanted to walk around the hotel. I wore tight jumpsuit, with some nice urban slacks to go with it. She even insisted on one of those urban beanie caps that covered my hair entirely. So much for that haircut being showed off. I ran to the elevator and pressed down. I lived on floor 21 and was heading for the lobby. At the reception, I inquired about a room ‘147’. “Oh my. Art, wow. I didn’t recognize you like that.Well….” She was starting to turn red. I owe Que a good scolding for delaying this. “Privacy policy says that I can’t tell that information.” She said firmly.

“Oh….. sorry for….d-disturbing.” I was very sad. I didn’t even realize I was talking like that. I pulled down my beanie down over my eyes. I don’t know why I started to tear up a bit there. I walked back to the elevators slowly. Back at my room, I was recalling back what happened. It was just a theory, why would Amber even live here? Must’ve been that damned talent. I decided to go for a shower, when Que barged in the toilet and told me there was a delivery for me. I put on my clothes and went to the door, but all I found was a huge teddy bear. “Que! I think this is for you!” I shouted.

She shouted back “Check the card! I don’t think you’re the handsome idiot time are you?” I looked at the card and it wrote distinctively ‘Art’ outside. So I opened it. It read; ‘I’m sorry I made you make a face like that. I couldn’t bear to just leave you in that state. The resident name is Amber McWilliams. So please, don’t ever make a face like that ever again, okay?’

Sometimes, I just love this talent.

I went to the elevator, pressed 14 and down I went. I rushed to the room that indicated 147. I was about to knock *ignoring the doorbell for some reason* when it just, opened.

Sometimes, I just hate this talent.

“Amber, would you please stop hogging the shower. I have a really cute da-“ A girl appeared in front of me, striped of her clothing. She was wearing only lingerie when she stepped up to me pulled me close to her, and kissed me. My 1st kiss and it’s with a girl I don’t even know. That’s another point for hating this talent. “Screw my date. You’re definitely going to bed with me tonight.” She seemed to be serious. I was hesitating a little. As she lay down on the bed and stretched to a position not worth mentioning, another door opened. “Andy! How many times have I told you, lock this door! Someone could get….” She appeared in the bedroom and saw me pulling down my beanie over my eyes, looking at the ceiling.

She turned all red, realizing I saw her only covered with a towel.

(valmitta)*Finished*

Nandayo.

Thoughts (1)

2009-09-11T08:20:00.002+08:00

Imagine having your every thought controlled and monitored.
Where anything you do or say is recorded.
If you went up against the RULER, you just disappeared. No one will ever hear from you again, and life would return to normal, soon enough people will forget your very existence.

Imagine being told what to do and how to do it.
Where THEY tell you how to tie your shoes, when to do it, and what the measurements must be.
Don't adhere to what THEY tell you, you disappear, never to be heard from again.
Not even your family would be reckless enough to go looking for you.

Imagine living in a world where there was no one that you could trust.
Where your on your own, relying on yourself and yourself alone.
If you were to let something slip to a friend or even a family member, THEY would come after you the next day.
You will be taken away, and never seen again.

Now, imagine growing up on this world. People are selfish and scared, angry and yet terrified. And really, there is only one thing to know...

Do something THEY don't like,
It would be as if you never even existed...

To be continued,
pseudonym

Wall

2009-09-11T03:06:00.004+08:00

There was a small village, and everyone who knew of existence called it Home (because there weren't many people who knew, just the people who lived there). Closely surrounding Home was a vast Wall that rose high and high in to the sky, and it was possible to say that no one knew where it ended.

No one questioned the Wall. The Wall held them in their place. The Wall was there to protect them. The wall was all-knowing. The Wall was even worshipped by a fifth of the population (ten people).

Talk about trying to bypass the Wall was quickly hushed.

The Wall rose high, and wound its way around the perimeter of the village. No one knew how thick it was, and the grey material it was made of was tough, but it was not hard, a bit like hard rubber. It was unsure what it was made of, but it was put through fire, and drills, and nothing could budge the Wall.

Some brave fools, reckless and daring, tried to prove everyone wrong, to find out what was beyond the Wall. They dug, but found that the Wall was positioned in the soil as well, no matter how deep they dug. They tried to climb, but no ladder (or amount of ladders melted together) was tall enough. They tried to ram the Wall down, and was thwarted by the Wall once again. It looked as if destiny was forcing them to accept the Wall as it is: Unmovable.

One day the Wall collapsed.

The Wall fell down. All the rubble crushed the whole village, but miracously, none of the villagers were harmed ( the Wall wasn't hard, and the pieces of just bounced of everyone). Some villagers cheered, some were terrified. What was beyond the Wall, which had been around from the start?

When the dust settled, the villagers gasped at what they saw.

Another wall.

Editr

One more time (14)

2009-09-08T14:37:00.002+08:00

PREVIOUSLY: ‘I knew today would be fun, Era!!’

TUESDAY, 8 SEPTEMBER: The next 2 minutes find me hugging Carolyn and pretending to give a damn about her. She’s squealing something about how exotic I look. Hunter stands opposite Ian.

Carolyn pulls back from me, and steps back towards Ian, who looks extremely uncomfortable.

‘Era, I want to tell you something, but I think it would be better if I showed you.’

She goes on her tip toes, and locks lips with Ian, who is utterly trying to squirm away. She’s facing me, and gives me a wink. I go weak in the knees, it was like a slap in the face. The lip locking goes on for longer than is appropriate in public, and then she finally pulls apart from Ian. She smiles at me and gives me an incomprehensible look, something between being smug and challenging me to say or do something.

‘Wow! You guys are a still a couple, huh? I’m impressed, I have to say, I never thought you two would last.’

‘Looks like you stand corrected, huh Era?’

Outwardly, she is being supremely friendly, but I know her intentions. I know this is all a show. And although I know, it still hurts to see the physical aspect of Ian belonging to someone else...

‘But Era, you’re being rude. Who is that charming guy by your side?’

Carolyn gives Hunter a flirtatious smile. How cheap.

‘Good evening, Miss Carolyn. My name is Hunter Venator. It’s truly a pleasure to meet you.’

Carolyn seems momentarily stunned. Hunter steps up to me and places his arm very subtly over my shoulder. Ian’s eyes zero in on Hunter’s arm, and I look up at Hunter and watch him give Ian a smug smile.

‘Wow! Where did you find him, Era? Some girls have all the luck. By the way, you two make the cutest couple!’

‘Knock it off, Carolyn! They are not a couple! Do you understand?! Hunter fancies himself, Era’s new best friend, he’s just kidding himself though.’

Ian releases his hand from Carolyn’s grip and walks back to his table.

‘Your boy friend has quite the temper, huh? Truly though, Era and I are best friends.’

‘That is so sweet! The two of you simply must join us at our table. We’ll pull some empty chairs and we can all catch up.’

‘Gee, that’s very kind of you Carolyn, but Hunter and I were planning on just finishing up here quickly then heading off.’

‘On second thought Era, I would love to meet your friends. Maybe we can do that thing we planned after we sit and have another drink with your friends. What do you say?’

Hunter turns to me, and he gives a fake questioning look. I know he has something up his sleeves, and I have to admit, I am pretty curious what trouble he’d get himself into this time.

‘Hmmm, I don’t know...but what the heck, right? Sure Carolyn, we’ll join you guys!’

So Hunter and I walk over to their table, and the others make space for the both of us. Unfortunately there are only two empty seats. One next to Carolyn and one next to Duke. And both of these seats are at opposing ends of the table. Hunter whispers very softly in my ears, that he would sit next to Duke. He doesn’t want me anywhere near Duke.

So I sit down next to Carolyn, and Ian immediately leans over Carolyn and starts talking to me. I see Carolyn’s facial expressions change, and laugh silently to myself. Hunter is busy ignoring Duke, who is glowering at him, and entertaining Emma with one of his humorous tales, judging from her laughter. How pathetic!

‘Era, the group of us are heading to my house after this, for tea and just to kick back. Join us?’

‘Oh, I’d love to, but I wouldn’t forgive myself if I ditched Hunter’

‘Nonsense, who said Hunter wasn’t invited? I’m sure Ian didn’t mean that! Besides, judging on what I’m seeing, Emma would have it no other way.’

Ian looks like Carolyn had just stuffed a lemon in his mouth.

‘Oh, actually, I’m a little busy after this. I had already planned out something for Era and my night. But if Era wants to go, then it not a problem whatsoever. I’ll sit it out though.’

‘Oh, what plans? Being naughty are we, Era?’

I don’t know whose face is redder, Ian’s or mine. Hunter is grinning widely, Emma looks a little upset at the prospect of Hunter not being around that night and Carolyn looks genuinely curious, waiting for my response, instead she got Hunter’s as I was blank on this pre-arranged night out.

‘Nothing much. And no worries, Era here isn’t being TOO naughty. Since I’m new here, Era was going to show me around a little, we planned on driving idly about, then having dinner and maybe catching a movie afterwards.’

‘That sounds like fun. Pardon me for asking, Hunter, but what car do you drive? I don’t mean to brag, but you might want to borrow Ian’s Lambo, it’s truly a luxury car.’

‘Right. But I don’t think I will be needing to borrow Ian’s car. I have one of my own actually. The red one, parked right outside.’

‘What model is that, dude?’

Duke asks Hunter, while looking at Hunter’s Ferrari wistfully.

‘Oh, nothing special. Just your average Ferrari Enzo.’

‘Nice car. Why did you go for a Ferrari though? Everyone knows a Lambo is the only way to go...’

‘I’m sure, Ian. But I want a car that fits my personality. I’m not trying to fit in with the crowd. Don’t you just hate those people who have no lives of their own, people who try to fit in? I find it absolutely pathetic!’

‘Hey Hunter! I think it’s about time we start heading out. It was nice meeting you guys, I’ll be seeing you around. Take care.’

I quickly jump up and head to the other end of the table and grab Hunter’s hand and yank him up. We head towards the door, and just as I’m about to open the door, I hear Ian shout out...

‘Era! Wait!’

TO BE CONTINUED..?
pseudonym

Hey, you guys. Just wanted some feedback on this; I'm planning on stopping this story, maybe at the next instalment. I think I'm boring you guys. Any thoughts on this? I'm still trying to figure out whether to scrap this story, or keep it going...

Diamante - Eerste

2009-09-07T15:21:00.002+08:00

I'm 30,

I have a desk job,

I can feel my waistline pushing through my slacks which I bought as a gift to myself,

yeah,

I know,

My life sucks and I'm stuck here stacking papers and signing documents,

The only reason why I'm still at this very orderly, clean, and sanitised,

deskjob, is that it pays well,

I mean, Who gets paid 2560.50 euros a month just to stack, review, approve of, and sign the companies documents,

Well its their loss anyways,

and I'm not complaining either,

I have been noticing our company's names on the recent newspaper headings,

about a week ago,

something about kidnappings and murders that are increasing in occurences at the company's operations in Africa. It never occured to me that my job, and the beliefs i held in morals and my faith in my religion, would take a drastic turn for the worst.

A day after the news about the company came out,

bringing with it a flood of gossip and whispers of the company being investigated or approaching bankcruptcy,

I was worried too,

afraid of losing my rather safe and very "comfortable" job,

but I was soon to find out the path that will be given to me,

when the CEO of the company requested my presence.

His office was one level higher than mine's,

so I took the elevator and as the elevator doors opened,

his assistant,

with her fake yet beautiful smile,

said to me in a very monotonous voice,

" Come with me, he's expecting you in the Eagle meeting room"

I followed her,

my eyes glancing from antique furnishings,

to the exquisitely soft and velvety carpet,

and inappropriately tracing the outlines of her undergarments protruding through her thinly layered clothing,

gave myself a good slap and started focusing again.

After a minute or two of walking,

we finally reached the oak doors of the meeting room,

The assistant went in first,

and came back out,

gesturing me to come in.

I took a deep breath and braced myself for what was to come,

McWiggle :p

Okay so this will be part 1 haha,

I promise I'll continue this one :p

One more time (13)

2009-09-07T14:44:00.005+08:00

PREVIOUSLY: They all start laughing, but I know Duke wasn’t kidding, he was very easily taken up by material possessions.

MONDAY, 7 SEPTEMBER: In the next moment, Hunter had exited his car, and was at the passenger side, holding the door open for me. As I step out, I can’t help but look over to the only occupied table, where Duke’s mouth hangs open. A look of panic flashes across Ian’s face when he sees Hunter, then his eyes fall on me, and he breaks into a smile. He stands up and waves to me. I smile at him and wave back.

I see Emma, my grade school friend sitting beside an empty seat that was next to Ian. She looks at me and gives me a shy smile, then her eyes fall on Hunter and I see a brilliant smile brighten up her face.

Emma is another one of the carbon copies. She and I had never been very close, she was Carolyn’s best friend. But when Carolyn and I became best friends, Emma had been ignored slightly. I could tell she still had a grudge against me for that. From what Carolyn had told me about her, she was one of those genuinely nice girls, slightly girl-next-door-ish for my taste, and yet I saw that she had a pretty aggressive side to her. Everywhere she went, laughter was sure to follow, she was one of those people I had envied ever since I was a child.

Hunter seemed to notice her smile brighten when her eyes landed on him, he seemed to like the attention.

‘I think I’m going to like meeting these island girls.’

He looks over at Emma and gives her one of his dazzling smiles and winks at her, and I hear her heart lurch. Ugh! How pathetic.

Hunter walks me over to an empty table at the other end of the cafe. He holds the seat for me, in the true gentlemanly manner. He walks over to the other side of the table and seats himself. We look over the menu and I order the most sinful dish on the entire menu, Hunter opts for a simple coffee.

I take off Hunter’s coat and drape it across the back of my seat.

‘Ian is staring at you, Era, and so is Duke. I don’t like the way they look at you, it’s almost hungry, and that’s saying something, for a human to look at a vampire with hunger.’

‘Well, let them look Hunter. I hope Ian realizes what he’s missed out on.’

‘Duke wants to know why the two of us don’t look like we actually went through last night. Hah! I bet he hates the fact that the split lip he gave you dissapeared, only thing he could be more angry about is the fact that my nose is perfectly straight! I do admit, it is incredibly obvious there’s something wrong with us. Can’t say I don’t enjoy staring at my handiwork though!’

‘Cute, Hunter! I don’t recognize the other two guys at the table. That’s odd, I thought I knew everyone on this island.’

‘Hmmm, they all look alike to me. Blond, dumb...seen one, seen them all. Now I know what you meant about this place being a bore fest.’

As we were talking, the bell above the entrance rings as the door opens. In walks Carolyn, who hasn’t changed a bit. Her appearance sends me back to the night I caught her making out with Ian, and I’m filled with hate once again. Hunter must have sensed my anger, his head immediately zeroes in on Carolyn and back to me. He reaches across the table and enfolds one of my hands in his, and he gives me a gentle, reassuring squeeze. All at once, I’m incredibly thankful that Hunter is with me, my pillar of strength and support.

Carolyn seems unusually haughty, she looks good, no doubt, as infuriating as it is to admit it. She is with a couple of old friends I recognized. She looks over at Ian, and gives him a flirtatious wave, and then gets pissed off that he didn’t seem to notice her entrance. She looks over in the direction Ian is staring, in my direction. Her eyes freeze on mine, and she seems to not be able to believe that it’s me. I give her a fake smile and a small half-hearted wave. She smiles brilliantly back at me, then is about to walk toward me when she seems to realize that Ian isn’t zoning out, he’s staring at me.

She turns to one of the guys I don’t recognize and starts whispering something to him. I perk up my ears and listen in on their conversation.

‘Why is Ian staring at Era?’

‘Era? Is that her name? I’m not sure, but looks to me that our little Ian has a crush.’

‘A crush?! He can’t have a crush on someone else, he’s my boyfriend!’

‘Hang on a second, is that Era Cavanaugh? I’ve heard that Ian has a thing for her...’

‘You can’t be serious! That scoundrel, she was my best friend, you know. I’ll show her that Ian is all mine. Ugh! Just look at the way she was looking at him when we stepped in...disgusting!’

Carolyn makes a detour and grabs Ian’s hands and pulls him up. Ian flinches, he must be in pain after yesterdays fight. Carolyn doesn’t even seem to notice that her boyfriend is in any pain at all.

‘Isn’t that Era Cavanaugh? We should go over and say hi! It’s been ages, and she doesn’t even know we’re going out with each other, does she? I’m sure she would be psyched for us.’

‘Umm, I don’t think that’s a good idea Carolyn. There’s no need to mention us being a couple.’

‘Nonsense! She’s our friend, we should totally tell her. Plus I want to get introduced to that hottie boyfriend of hers.’

‘He isn’t her boyfriend...’

Hunter seems extremely amused by the conversation, especially the way Ian said his last sentence, so weakly...

‘I knew today would be fun, Era!!’

TO BE CONTINUED
pseudonym

One more time (12)

2009-09-06T22:40:00.004+08:00

PREVIOUSLY: And the last thing I remember is falling into the pure bliss that only sleep can give

SUNDAY, 6 SEPTEMBER: I open my eyes, and am greeted by the feeble rays of the sun. I sit up in my bed and realize I’m still wearing the red dress from last night. I get up, wash up and change into a pair of shorts and a t-shirt and head down for breakfast, eager to know what happened after I fell asleep.

As I’m skulking around the house looking for everyone, I walk head first into Jasper.

‘Oh! Sorry! Morning Jasper, seen my dad?’

‘Good morning, Miss Cavanaugh. Your father is in the parlour entertaining a gentlemen who must be of some class.’

‘A gentlemen, you say? Say Jasper, what does this gentlemen look like?’

‘Well, he seems a lot darker than most of the boys here. Pale, with a shock of black hair, quite tall and has an attitude the size of the entire island and then some. I believe he goes by the name Mr. Venator.’

‘Hunter is here?! I’m off then, could you get me a drink and bring it to the parlour? Thanks Jasper, you’re a peach!’

As I head off to the parlour, I hear Jasper muttering under his breath, something about peaches and how he can’t imagine why he has to serve me. Chuckling, I enter the parlour.

‘Morning father! Hunter!!’

‘It’s barely morning anymore, Era. You really must wake up earlier! Imagine the impression you’ve left on Hunter here. Which reminds me, he shall be addressed as Mr. Venator to you.’

‘There’s really no need for that, Jason. Era and I have known each other for five years now. Hunter is perfectly fine. Morning sunshine, so what’s the plan for today?’

Hunter gives me one of his trademark smiles, and I notice that his nose has recovered fully, it was as perfect and straight as ever. I run my fingers over my lip and feel that it has completely healed. Thank god! This whole vampire thing does have it’s advantages...sometimes.

‘I need to hit the shops, buy some clothes. I also want to meet up with the old group, show them I’m still alive and thriving since I’ve left them.’

‘Oh, sounds like fun! What shall I wear?’

‘You want to come? But I’m meeting up with people like Ian, and his gang...’

‘No worries, if it means so much to you, you’re friends are my friends. And if he really gets on my nerves, I’ll imagine pulling him to pieces, slowly.’

Again that sweet, angelic smile.

‘Great, it’s a date then. Let me have a drink, change, then we’ll be off.’

‘Do I have any say in your activities for today, Era?’

‘No, father. But don’t worry, Hunter will keep an eye on me. I’m sure you trust Hunter to keep me out of trouble.’

‘Luckily for you, I do trust Hunter. Be good Era!’

‘When am I ever not, father?’

I exit the room chuckling, meet Jasper in the hallway, take the drink from his hands, say a brief thank you and I’m up the stairs and off to change.

One hour later and Hunter and I exit his Ferrari. Hunter is wearing a plain grey t-shirt, black jeans and a leather coat. He looks very yummy. Next to him, I seem over dressed. I’m wearing one of my very few skirts, a simple, figure hugging blouse. I didn’t bother with a jacket, because I didn’t have one that would compliment my outfit, hence I need to go shopping. As I step out of Hunter’s warm car, I internally kick myself for not wearing something warmer. I immediately start shivering. Hunter looks over at me and chuckles and hands me his leather coat. It’s very much too big for me, but it feels good.

We step into one of the upscale shopping centres, and I whirlwind about looking for clothes, especially for a jacket that would look good with this outfit. I didn’t want to meet up with my old friends unless I looked perfect. My dark locks were pulled back into a tight ponytail.

As I try stuff on, Hunter gives me his masterful advice and critics. An hour later, we leave the shopping centre empty handed, because he couldn’t find anything he thought suited me. By now it’s almost 2 o’clock, and unless everyone had kicked their old habit, they would all be at one of the nearby cafe’s.

As Hunter parks his car in the parking lot right outside the cafe, my heart flutters, I see a very tired Ian surrounded by my group of old friends. I see all of them staring in the direction of Hunter’s darkly tinted car and I can hear them talking about it.

Duke, whose face looks bruised and swollen from Hunter’s punch, nudges Ian and points at Hunter’s car. He lets out a low whistle.

‘Now whose car is that? Whoever it is, I suggest we make friends, huh guys?!’

They all start laughing, but I know Duke wasn’t kidding, he was very easily taken up by material possessions.

TO BE CONTINUED
pseudonym

One more time (11)

2009-09-06T01:41:00.001+08:00

PREVIOUSLY: After toying with Ian a little, Hunter throws an extremely forceful punch in Ian’s direction. Ian had no chance of blocking it whatsoever, he gets hit squarely in the stomach and gets thrown into a nearby tree. The back of his head slams against the bark of the tree with so much force, I could actually hear it. Ian slides down and looks like he’s passed out.

My stomach clenches with panic.

SUNDAY, 6 SEPTEMBER: Hunter utterly disregards Ian, and bends over the pier reaching his hand into the water. He uses the icy water to wash off the blood from his face.

Out of nowhere, I hear a thud of feet right by the pier, running in Hunter’s direction. Duke appears holding a baseball bat, apparently his baseball practice had just ended, and uses it to strike the back of Hunter’s head as he is bent over the pier. Before Hunter was even able to dodge the blow, he splashes into the icy water.

‘How could you just sit there and watch as Ian gets banged up by that stranger?’

I was still so stunned, I couldn’t even answer that question. I just sit there my head shaking from left to right. Ian seems to be regaining consciousness and sits up, he seems disoriented, but the moment he remembers what was happening, he’s back on his feet and in a defensive stance looking around for Hunter.

Duke approaches me, so angry that he’s actually quite scary. He grabbed me by my shoulders and roughly shoves me into a tree. He lifts me up until we’re eye-to-eye. His body pins my body to the tree and my thrashing seems utterly pointless. I can’t seem to summon any strength above that of a typical human girl. Tears are streaming down my face, and still I can’t speak.

He takes one hand off my shoulder and I think he’s about to release me. The pressure of his body against mine is so much, that it actually hurts. Before I know it, his hand had shot up and slapped me across my face, I feel my lip split, and my right cheek burns.

‘How dare you? Duke! How could you slap her?!’

I see Ian running towards me shouting at Duke. I feel in utter shock. I can taste blood in my mouth, and it’s got me into a kind of high.

In the next moment, Ian reaches Duke and grabs his hand before he manages to land the second slap on me. At the same time, Hunter is at my side, soaking wet, and giving Duke a look so violent, that he involuntarily lets go of me. Ian pulls Duke off and drags him as far from Hunter as possible, he seems to realize that Hunter has just passed the point of no return. In the same moment that Duke released me, Hunter’s hand replaced his on my shoulder, this time not intended to hurt me, merely to keep me upright. He holds my waist and supports the majority of my weight. He looks down at me, runs his cold hands over my quickly bruising face, and that violent look returns to his face.

I know what he’s thinking. Hunter will go after Duke and make him pay for what he did to me. Hunter was so engrossed in his planning on how to make Duke suffer the most, that he didn’t seem to notice himself shivering in the cold night air.

‘Hunter, don’t. He didn’t mean to hurt me. He was just upset over what happened to Ian.’

I notice Ian suddenly seem to lose his balance, looks like his adrenaline rush is over. Thankfully, Duke catches him before he hits the ground. Duke swings one of Ian’s arms over his shoulder and supports his weight and starts walking toward Ian’s house. He throws a backward glance at me in Hunter’s arms.

‘Welcome home Era! Hope you see the kind of problem you cause. Why don’t you do us all a favour and run off again, but this time, take that psycho with you. He isn’t welcome here.’

‘Oh yeah? Why don’t you come and say that to my face, chubby! And if I were you, I’d learn to show Era some respect.’

‘Well, you aren’t me. And I’d rather die than show respect to that little tramp.’

Hunter gently lays me on the ground, and walks over to Duke. As he’s walking a group of Duke’s baseball buddies enter the area, they look perplexed, seeing Duke supporting an unconscious Ian, Hunter looking utterly terrifying, Duke looking like he wanted nothing more than to beat Hunter up, and me sitting stunned on the ground.

Before anyone can react, Hunter stops right in front of Duke, pulls back his fist, and punches Duke in the face. Duke immediately falls down and so too, does Ian.

‘That’s for slapping Era. I would rip your hand of your body generally, but I reserve killing you for another day.’

And with that Hunter walks back towards me and gently scoops me up in his arms. He looks down at me and the violent look disappears, replaced by the most earnest of concern.

‘I’m sorry Era. I never meant for you to get hurt. Please forgive me!’

‘Hunter, it isn’t your fault at all. It’s mine, Duke was right, what kind of friend allows her friend to be beaten up in front of her, and yet does nothing at all to stop it?’

‘Era, don’t you dare blame yourself! I swear I will make that boy pay.’

‘Hunter, are you okay? He hit you pretty hard. And you fell into that freezing water, and you’re shivering. Do you have a coat? You should get out of that shirt before you fall sick.’

‘Don’t worry about me, I’m tough, a little cold isn’t going to make me ill. By the way Era, I know this isn’t a good time to point this out but, because you refuse to drink any blood, you’re weak. Had you the strength of a normal vampire, Duke would never have been able to pin you to that tree. Please reconsider your diet, for your own good.’

‘No, Hunter. I don’t want to drink blood, I can get by on human food and I will. Besides, I have you around to protect me, right?’

I smile up at him, and he returns one of his dazzling smiles back to me. By this time, he’s carried me to the nearby parking lot and stops at a gorgeous, red Ferrari.

He places me on my feet, and holds the passenger door open for me. I climb in and immediately am encompassed in a delicious smell, a combination of something spicy and very appealing.

‘My new ride, like it?’

‘Definitely.’

The next thing I know, Hunter is carrying me up a familiar flight of stairs, into a familiar room and places me on a familiar bed. As he tucks the quilt around me, I hear another pair of feet in the room.

‘What happened to her?’

I recognized my father’s voice, and I can hear the concern in it, it makes me feel remarkably better.

‘I met Ian today, Jason.’

‘Ah, tell me everything’

And the last thing I remember is falling into the pure bliss that only sleep can give.

TO BE CONTINUED
pseudonym

One more time (10)

2009-09-06T00:38:00.003+08:00

PREVIOUSLY: Oh no! Hunter sounds like he’s done with talking. I recognized the tone from every other time he got into a fight with someone. By the time he ended his sentence I was standing a little way away from the pier, but I could see the two of them facing each other clearly, I could see the anger on Ian’s face and the cocky smile on Hunter’s...

And I knew this could only end badly...

SUNDAY, 6 SEPTEMBER: I couldn’t make my legs move. No matter how hard I tried, I just couldn’t move. I couldn’t put myself between the two of them, I just wasn’t able to protect my best friends from each other. So I end up on the floor, my legs tucked under me. I feel completely disconnected from my body, and I watch in complete horror as Hunter and Ian begin to size each other up, I can almost see what’s going to happen next, and yet, I’m incapable of stopping them. Tears roll down my cheek in a steady, silent stream and I watch transfixed.

‘I made a mistake, so sue me! I’m allowed to make a bloody mistake, Hunter! Are you telling me that you have never done anything to hurt her?! ‘

‘Unlike you Ian, I care for her too much to hurt her. Perhaps you don’t understand though...’

Which was not true. Hunter had hurt me. Not emotionally, the way Ian did, he hurt me physically, on the night he turned me into a vampire. But Hunter had never meant to hurt me, I couldn’t bring myself to think that Hunter had meant to hurt me.

‘How dare you?!’

And I can see Ian completely lose it. Ian has never been in a fight before, but I see an adrenaline rush in him, he seems to move more fluidly then I’ve ever seen him move before.

In a split second he had shoved Hunter backwards with his full force, and Hunter barely budged. Ian probably didn’t realize that Hunter wasn’t human, and that’s why he barely budged. Ian’s adrenaline rush seemed to have pumped him up, and I have to admit, I’m not so worried about him anymore. And then I look at Hunter and see a flash of red in his eyes and my dread returned. How could Ian match Hunter, Hunter who was a skilled hunter himself (no pun intended), Hunter who was supremely fast and tough.

‘Is that all you got, pretty boy? Even Era could shove me harder than that! How do you plan to win her over, when you aren’t even as strong as she is? How are you supposed to protect her?’

Ian’s face turns red, but I can’t be sure whether out of fury or embarrassment. He aims a punch at Hunter, but Hunter dodges it easily.

‘Come on, Ian! You said you wanted a fight, now you have one, and you’re not even trying to hit me, are....’

Before Hunter could finish his sentence, Ian aims a swift jab right at Hunter’s face, and Hunter goes down so fast. I stare open mouthed. Hunter had underestimated Ian, he had talked too much.

In the next instant, Hunter was back up, looking absolutely livid, his nose looks broken and blood is dripping down his chin and staining his crisp white shirt. Hunter drops into a defensive stance and is now at the exact same height as Ian.
I could see the smugness in Ian’s face.

‘You were saying Hunter? For a pretty boy, I sure made you look a hell of a lot uglier!’

‘Insolent child’

Ian goes on the offensive, throwing punch after punch in Hunter’s direction. Hunter blocks each and every blow. And with every blow he blocked, the smile on his face grows, and Ian’s face gets more and more tensed.

After toying with Ian a little, Hunter throws an extremely forceful punch in Ian’s direction. Ian had no chance of blocking it whatsoever, he gets hit squarely in the stomach and gets thrown into a nearby tree. The back of his head slams against the bark of the tree with so much force, I could actually hear it. Ian slides down and looks like he’s passed out.

My stomach clenches with panic...

TO BE CONTINUED
pseudonym

One more time (9)

2009-09-05T13:27:00.004+08:00

PREVIOUSLY: Hunter gave one of his radiant smiles, which was at a huge contrast to Ian's glower. Ian clenches his fists, and takes a couple of steps closer to Hunter, and Hunter sensing the challenge, rolls up the sleeves of his shirt, and walks ever so cockily until he and Ian are nose-to-nose.

Oh god! Boys...

SATURDAY, 5 SEPTEMBER: ‘What you going to do? Hit me, Ian? I dare you to!’

‘Stop it, Hunter!’

I finally regained my voice. In the time that Hunter and Ian had been exchanging their asinine banter, I had completely lost all ability to speak. I couldn't believe how fast their meeting was escalating into what would surely become a fist fight.

‘No, Era. There’s no need to stop him. I can take him! Bring it on Hunter!’

‘Shut up, Ian. Don’t taunt Hunter, you have no idea who you are messing with!’

‘See, Ian. Era knows which one of us will be limping out of this little brawl. Era knows I’m stronger than you, Era knows that you will LOSE!’

‘Stop it Hunter, you idiot! If you lay a finger on Ian, I’ll tear you up. Do you understand me?’

‘Hah! Obviously Era doesn’t like you very much, now does she, Hunter? I think it’s pretty obvious that I’m the favourite here. She didn’t say she would do anything if I laid a finger on you!’

‘Well, that’s because she knows that that finger would be broken way before it came close to me! She doesn’t underestimate ME! Plus, you must be a real pussy, why else would Era be so worried about you? She needs a man, Ian, not a boy who can’t even look after himself!’

‘Stop it both of you! Have you guys ever considered my feelings? Both of you claim to be my best friends, but you can’t even bare to do the one thing I ask you to! Both of you are jerks, completely and utterly.’

I stormed off, too worried and angry to stand on that tension-filled pier. Hopefully the moment I leave, the both of them will back off and leave each other alone. I needed to clear my head, I needed fresh air in order to figure out what just happened.
_____________________________________________________________________________________

‘Wait for me Era!’ Hunter called out.

‘You?! Why would she wait for you?’ Ian retorted.

‘You’re lucky I’m going to go check up on Era, Ian, otherwise you would be in a sorry state the moment I were through with you.’ As he said that, Hunter began to head off in the direction Era had taken.

‘If you loved her Hunter, you would want what’s best for her. And I’m best for her. She loves me, she said so herself. Don’t you want Era to be happy? Leave her alone, if you loved her, you would.’ Ian had caught up with Hunter, and placed his hand on Hunter’s shoulder.

Hunter immediately grabbed Ian’s wrist and twisted it, bringing Ian inches away from his face.

‘And what makes you think I would just stand here and let you go after Era? Do you know how much of her precious tears she has wasted on you? Do you know how hurt she was? Do you know the state she was in, the moment she stepped off the plane 3 years ago? She was devastated Ian, because of you! And now, you have the nerve to say that you’re what’s best for her? Don’t make me laugh!’

_____________________________________________________________________________________

I had been walking for a few minutes before I realised that I could still hear Hunter’s voice in the distance. He sounded pissed, which meant he was still with Ian. I suddenly felt a strong desperation to get back to the pier. I knew without a doubt that this could only end up in a fight.

I turn around and run as fast as I can back towards the pier.

‘And what makes you think I would just stand here and let you go after Era? Do you know how much of her precious tears she has wasted on you? Do you know how hurt she was? Do you know the state she was in, the moment she stepped off the plane 3 years ago? She was devastated Ian, because of you! And now, you have the nerve to say that you’re what’s best for her? Don’t make me laugh!’

Oh no! Hunter sounds like he’s done with talking. I recognized the tone from every other time he got into a fight with someone. By the time he ended his sentence I was standing a little way away from the pier, but I could see the two of them facing each other clearly, I could see the anger on Ian’s face and the cocky smile on Hunter’s...

And I knew this could only end badly...

TO BE CONTINUED
pseudonym

One more time (8)

2009-09-05T11:10:00.004+08:00

PREVIOUSLY: 'Era...?'

I know that voice...

SATURDAY, 5 SEPTEMBER: Dammit, what is HE doing here?!I can't allow him to meet Hunter...

'Hunter, I have a bad feeling about this. Can we please leave, now?'

'Era, it's just some random human boy. We can take him...Or if you're scared, you can sit this one out, I'll handle the boy, then we can get back to our conversation.'

'I am not scared! I'm just saying, this is my hometown, I don't want any blood on my hands. So, let's just leave, please!'

'No worries then, no blood, I promise. I'll ask him nicely to move, and if he doesn't I will forcefully remove him from your presence, okay?'

'Hunter, I think I'm about to pass out. Help me get back to my father's house.'

I'm a bad actress, I know it, Hunter knows it. But I just couldn't help but to try to act like I was about to pass out, I sway a little, try to make myself look weak and pale, slur my words...Hunter just gives me a look, one that says he knows that I'm acting, and very badly at that. He even has the nerve to chuckle at me, I mean, I know I'm bad, but what happened to common courtesy?! Ugh...

'Era? Who's that with you?'

That voice again.

'Who's there? And how do you know Era?'

Hunter calls out, while giving me a questioning glance since I've really turned quite pale, I would imagine. That voice belonged to Ian, and it would be a matter of minutes before he reached us here, and then he'd be facing Hunter. Hunter who had spent the last three years needling me for information on Ian, Hunter who was and still is supremely pissed that a human had beaten him out, and a Hunter who seemed to need no excuse to pick a fight with a random stranger, what more with a person he truly disliked?

'The question is, who are you? I've lived here my whole life, and never have I heard your voice before, which means you're an outsider. An outsider has no right to demand answers to his questions.'

'You are awfully virtuous for an itty-bitty human, aren't you? It's no wonder why Era blew this joint, with people like you around, I'm surprised she managed to remain sane for the 18 years she was here.'

'What makes you think you know Era so well? I'm her best friend after all...'

As Ian said that last sentence he appeared on the edge of the pier opposite us. My heart lurched. Ian came to find ME. Ian was picking a fight with Hunter about ME. I had to actually tell myself to get a grip. I thought all these hormonal imbalances were reserved for teenagers?! This is so unfair!!

'Ah, so you're the amazing Ian, huh? I have to say, I'm not impressed.'

'So you know me then? In that case, you should know that no one knows Era better than I do, I've known her my whole life, we've been best friends for ages.'

'Era's best friend? I think you gave up that title the day you drove off without a backward glance, the day she told you she loved you, and you didn't reply. The day you didn't even have the decency to say "bye" to your so called, best friend'

Ian visibly paled, and I'm sure he was thinking about the ride in his car earlier today, or actually yesterday.

'How rude of me. I know all about you, but you know nothing about me. I'm Hunter, I'm Era's new best friend and so much more. Pleased to meet you, Ian'

Hunter gave one of his radiant smiles, which was at a huge contrast to Ian's glower. Ian clenches his fists, and takes a couple of steps closer to Hunter, and Hunter sensing the challenge, rolls up the sleeves of his shirt, and walks ever so cockily until he and Ian are nose-to-nose.

Oh god! Boys...

TO BE CONTINUED
pseudonym

Phase Two

2009-09-05T03:14:00.004+08:00

Seeing everyone still panicking, I opened the front door of the ballroom, and to my relief I found Kenneth waiting.

I met Kenneth at a bar one day. He was casually flirting with the various young girls around him, convincing them to come home with him, and it looked seemingly that the girls were vying for a one night stand with him. He was a born leader, but he lurked in the shadows, taking none of the credit for himself, letting others take the credit, and sometimes the fall as well. He was smart, suave, and quick. I liked him before I even talked to him.

I got to know him better after that, and we thought of the "business" together: He would go in, and plant himself in the crowd. One of us would create a scene, I would go and provide an alternate solution, and he would second that opinion. That was all that was needed for the crowd to agree. There was usually one bonehead who had a loud voice and could lead the mob to do something completely unnecessary, like search the basement, or the ceiling, or the underneath the tables.

That was our cue to swipe as many valuables and vehicles as possible. We did make a tidy sum. And we did enjoy ourselves tremendously.

Doing so, we did make a name for ourselves, and soon we were in more and more dangerous as we pulled off more jobs. Even getting some of our friends to work with us in our "venture" wasn't enough. So we had to wear disguises. So no one could tell it was us. I was an expert at that. I had my share of running away from the authorities, so I was an expert at creating a completely new identity for myself. So I taught Ken how to do the same, and he picked it up quickly. He was my fastest friend, my closest pal. I'd trust him with my life.

So why was he pointing a gun at me, right now?

Part 2 of 3

Editr.

One more time (7)

2009-09-04T20:47:00.003+08:00

PREVIOUSLY: As you've probably guessed, the man was Hunter, and he DID quench his thirst that night.

FRIDAY, 4 SEPTEMBER: After that night, I went back to the hotel, pretended that I was extremely sick, made sure that Carolyn had to get her own room, and just stayed in the room, weeping all day long. Hunter stopped by very often, and as weird as it may sound, I felt comforted by his presence. We had a connection, that was undeniable. He would just sit patiently and allow me to weep, he wouldn't even try to stop me, he would let me get everything off my chest. It felt good.

Anyway, after that disastrous holiday, I tried to forget as much about Ian as possible, I had decided that I would give up his friendship, I would make him hate me or something. Weirdly enough, the harder I tried to forget about him, the more often he crept into my life. The more often I would run into him at school, the more often I would get the feeling that he might possibly like me too...

So that was basically what my life had become, I avoided Carolyn, who officially started seeing Ian. I tried to avoid Ian, but failed, miserably. I was basically on autopilot for the most part of my life, all until I turned 18 and left this stupid island. And now, here I am, back again, and my life is falling apart again...

'Era, are you thinking about the past again? Are you thinking about Ian? Are you thinking about how similar you are feeling to the previous you, the old you?'

Hunter's questions disturbed my reverie. I looked up and saw him watching me, he was watching the way the tears slipped from my eyes and entered my mouth, making a salty taste in my mouth. And the look in his eyes, it was pure tenderness. I loved Hunter, definitely, but not in the way I was supposed to. He's my comrade, my confidant and my partner-in-crime.

'Hunter, have I ever told you how annoying this connection between us is?'

'I recall you mentioning it...perhaps 20 times a week.'

He gives me one of his full, beautiful smiles, and I cant help but to smile back at him, I see a small pinprick of light amidst the darkness. At the very least, I still had Hunter. No matter what my father told me about my mother, no matter whether it was true or not, no matter that Ian had said he loved me, all of that didn't matter, I actually managed to smile, even through my depression, and that's all that mattered to me at that moment.

As I contemplate this baffling thought, Hunter and I both tense at the same time. I look at Hunter, and he at me. And I know he heard it too, he heard someone approaching us.

'A man'

'Young'

'Dangerous?'

'Not for us, Era'

Another brilliant smile, and he stands up in a movement so fluid that it took him less than a second to do it. In the next instant I was next to him, my body tensed, not knowing what to expect, and that adding to my tension.

'Era...?'

I know that voice...

TO BE CONTINUED
pseudonym

NIGHT HUNTER(3)

2009-09-02T21:21:00.002+08:00

Chapter 3

Alas the city of Gravia, the sun is ready to set. Soon I will have to execute my plans with the utmost precision especially since Dorian the DeathWatch elite will be in this city as well. First of all I will have to get a room to unpack my weapons, also I will have to look like an ordinary merchant as well. People rarely travel the city at night, so I will use that as an advantage for my hunt. The countess will surely be cautious as well because just by entering the city I could feel the holy stench of vampire slayers. The aura is simply overwhelming. It reminds me of my old self where fear was still a factor. Now I simply feel uneasy. Enough with that, I will have to be ready, the faster I finish this hunt the faster I can get away from the vampire slayers.

“Rokem, prepare the other servants for battle and get me a room. Any tavern will do fine as long as no one disturbs my preparation for tonight.”
“Right away, my lord. Also, my source tells that the countess was last spotted in a tavern called Drunken Boar.”
“Before midnight strikes, send our fastest servants as bait to lure her into an open space. I would like to do this discretely but I would prefer to be able to see the horror on her face when I strike the final blow.”
“Very well, most vicious of lords.”

After renting the room, I made sure that no one would suspect that anything unholy was being done inside the room. Of course I had to pay the bar tender quite the amount for this silence but it would be most worth the price. I will have to start quickly now before the moon shines full. I draw a pentagram with my blood, invoke the incantations and recite the words that I have memorized just for today. This ritual must be done precisely or else everything will go wrong. Slowly the room darkens with shadows. With this ritual I will summon a denizen from the dark planes of the Shadow Realm. Shadows emerge from the pentagram and form into a single entity.

“WHO DARES TO SUMMON THE ALMIGHTY DRENON, MASTER OF SHADOWS AND DEATH! MORTAL, I WILL TEAR YOUR SOUL AND DEVOUR YOUR HEART BEFORE YOUR VERY EYES!”
“You need not bother yourself with the seals, I can assure you they will not break. You must also know that if you continue to threaten me, I will simply send you back with a thought and summon someone else that is more likely to cooperate.”

The fury on the demons eyes were baleful to look at, even painful at times. Clearly the demon does not like being treated like a slave by a mortal but I am no mortal. I would have to be careful with this one, the moment I let my guard down I believe full well that it will commit to its words. But of course every demon would not let go at a chance to be released into this realm.

“Very well mortal, state your business….”
“I AM NOT A MORTAL, I AM THE MASTER OF THE NIGHT! HUNTER OF ALL! IMMORTAL BEING OF THE UNDEATH! YOU WILL RESPECT ME DEMON BEFORE I BANISH YOU BACK INTO YOUR GOD FORSAKEN REALM!”

Looks like now I got its attention. That ruse of an outburst has taken most of my courage to act out. Hopefully the demon will not see through it. It seems to calm down and even hold a measure of respect in its eyes now.

“Work for me tonight, succeed in this mission and I will assure you will not go unrewarded.” Silence continues as the demon listens intently.
“I will take that as an agreement. Tonight, when the moon shines fully on this city, you will find another one of my kind. With her are two giant guards, when you are given the signal I want you to take out those two guards. However, I warn you not to take them lightly. They may not be immortals like me but they hold hidden powers.”
“Is that all, night hunter?”
“Yes, leave now. Remember though, the moment I think you threaten the success of this mission, I will be sure to banish you.”

The entity dissolves into dark smoke and the room regains its light. I breathe out a sigh of relief. This may not be the first time I deal with demons but it is the first time I had summon one as powerful as this. With this, hopefully those two servants of hers will be taken care of. Then I will have the countess to myself. For now I gather my strength for the hunt.

Commisar

Forever My Love

2009-08-31T20:21:00.014+08:00

As I lay there at the edge of a hill that was next a lake, under the dark blue night sky , admiring how beautiful the moon glowed in the night sky . Although it was a crescent moon , it still shone brightly with a silvery glow which lighten up the night sky along with the stars that blink like little fireflies on a tree at mid-night . Every once in a while there's a cool gentle breeze that passes , making it a very relaxing time .

As I admire the moon and stars in the night sky , your face would appear in my mind every once in a while . And each time it happens , it gets harder and harder for me to get my mind off you cause I know that we will never be as you are already in some-one's arm . After shaking you off my mind I decided to take a walk to clear my mind . As I walk my mind played back what had happened in the bar the other night .....

I told you I love you and just as you were about the say something , Jake ( the town's playboy , jackass , and richest kid in Night Fossil ( the town we live in )) interrupted you calling you a slut and started flirting with you and asking the price of a one night stand with you . I was furious and without thinking , I stood up and punched that retard in the face . I hit his nose and it was so hard that he fell and his nose started bleeding . As I was about to punch that sucker's face again, I heard you screaming ' Stop!! Don't punch him again, Soren !!!' .

As you ran to Jake's side trying to help him up , I tried to figure out what had just happened . I could hear the siren coming from the outside of the bar . I withdrew my arms and stepped back .

I stared at Jake , his bleeding nose , and you trying to help him get up as the cops came in the bar and cuffed me and dragged me out the bar.

' Crud !' I said to myself ,' This happened a year ago .... Why can't I just move on and forget you .'

To be continued .

Nick over and out

A Not So Ordinary Life Chap. 1

2009-08-31T18:21:00.006+08:00

This story was thought up when I was going into a saloon. You’ll be surprised what you can see at a saloon when you look hard enough. Reader discretion is advised (again).

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

As the early rays of morning shine through my window, I slowly rise; wiping away the remnants of what was yesterday lay in my eyes. The apartment window that sits there embedded in the wall, as it has been in the time I have stayed here, shows of a horizon, the vast ocean of skyscrapers and intertwining highways and sky trains. I get into my ‘big yet not so big’ toilet for a shower to get ready for school. As I walk from my bed room to the living room outside, furnished with the latest in art and fancy-prancy pompous decorations, Jacqueline; my maid and half-mistress walks out and nags me like she does every morning. She has a porcelain-vase body, her chest just about the right shape, and her behind not sticking out as most women do when wearing tight clothing yet very revealing nonetheless.

“Art! Just because I’m used to seeing you naked doesn’t mean I like it. Now for the love of god! Wrap a towel around that….” She stuttered at the awkwardness of what was supposed to be the last statement. Her face just turned a bit red though. I however, was used to the reaction.

“Jacqueline, if you would be so kind, as to pass me my…” I stopped, as she had already thrown my towel at me and stormed out of the living room into the kitchen, to prepare breakfast as she would every passing day. I just walked casually toward to the shower, not bothering to wrap the towel that was just thrown to me around my… Well you know.

Wonder how I got this fabulously decorated apartment and a gorgeous maid to match? Let’s just say there was an ‘occurrence’ with a certain owner of a long line of apartments, and let’s just leave it at that, shall we?

As I rough up my hair to dry it, and walk out of the shower (towel covering ‘it’) and casually sit on one of the stools surrounding the breakfast table protruding out of the wall. I look up at Jacqueline’s face as pours me some milk, and as her gaze meets mine, she looks away a red mess.

“You know, all you need is a wardrobe change, some moving rubber on that messy crop you call hair, and any girl would fall for you.”

Taken aback by the sudden claim, “What makes you say that?” I ask, more out of surprise than anything.

“The way you look at people, I mean, well...” she stuttered, not understanding what she said. How could she? She doesn’t know anything about my ‘special’ talent.

“Don’t be like that Que. You know me long enough to hold back with the face” I lied, as we had only known each other since I finished junior high last hear. She turns even redder at the mention.

“Que…” she just turned away and started wiping dishes, which were clearly dry. I knew she needed some cheering up from the embarrassment. I mean, it wasn’t even her fault!

“Que!” I shouted in an attempt to startle her. It did the trick; she spun around and nearly dropped the plate, when I held it firm in her hand. As she looked away, I lifted her chin up to meet my gaze, her beautifully shaped, light-blue eyes. She stared deep into my set of light purple eyes, as I stared into hers.

“Que…” I started.

“A-a-a-Art.” She said firmly at the end.

“Tell you what; I’ll make a bet with you.” She slowly pushed me away as I start the conversation.

“What kind?” She was slowly recovering, as I had hoped.

“I’ll do that makeover thing with you and since tomorrows school, we’ll see if the girls keep gaping at me.”

A wide grin spread over her face. “Conditions and Prizes?”

“If less than 50% of the girl population ignores my presence, you win. Otherwise, I win. As for prizes, you decide yours if you win. I’ll decide mine when I win.” I said in a slightly mock tone, but ginning widely as to show no hard feelings.

“You’re on!” As she shook my hand, my towel dropped. Sigh. Back to square one.

As she pushed me into the saloon chair, I was faced with a reflection of myself and an eyeing Jacqueline. The Saloons hairdresser, Miew Miew, Que had called her, has that “Your hairs going to be interesting to fiddle with” look. This just increased my distress. Jacqueline laughed at my displeasure.

“Nice looking boyfriend you got here Que. Mind if I snag him from you?” The saloons occupants were listening intently but doing their best not to show it.

“I told you for the fifth time! Read my lips. He. Is. Not. My. BOYFRIEND!” She was wearing a light pink shirt, with a matching floral skirt just above her knee level.

Miew Miew eyed her up and down then up again. “You dress like your on a date though. Can’t blame me for that.” Que’s face turned away and tried to argue further but Miew Miew just put up a hand for silence, and pointed to my hair.

“Remember Quinn?” Que asked.

“You want HIS hair!?! Now THAT’S a request!” She began spraying my hair with water. Slowly but surely, a hairstyle was being formed. What scared me was that I couldn’t see what style it was until it was finished. She slowly layered my bang then pressed it so it went sideways, but not to the point of an emo hair cut. My overgrown sidebangs were layered slowly to become short but still very thin. Then she might as well have practically layered my whole head as much as I was concerned because in the end, I was left with a very strawy, volume style of hair. It wasn’t as thick as those Asian models you see, but it still wasn’t as short as the models you see in the European part of the world. She then dipped her fingers in what I think is some sort of hair product. I don’t really care for these sort of things. When she was done, my hair looked slightly poofy, yet maintaining its strawy quality.

“Hows that for Quinn?” Miew Miew obviously happy with the work.

“He’s…” She stopped as I smiled at her and she went red again. A customer giggled at that.

As I stood up and paid, I nodded a brief ‘Thank You’ and quickly stepped out. Que put her arm around mind and said in a very perky tone that I have never heard before, “Clothes!”. I was still up in the clouds after the hair cut, so it came as a surprise to me when the escalator came to an end. I stumbled forward I dragged Jacqueline down with and next thing I knew, she was on top of me. I could feel her ‘chest’ on mine, and her heavy breathing on my face. She turned a very pink red then as she tried to stand up, a familiar voice greets us in that awkward (yet sexy) position. I looked up and saw a pair of turquoise panties under a very short skirt.

“Art? That can’t be you, can it?” A set of purple eyes observed us on the ground.

(Parte Uno El Fin)

Or at least that’s how I think it’s said in foreign language. A short note here, most ‘obscene’ parts are dedicated the critic ‘McWiggle’ as was his feedback to my prologue. More feedback is needed please. Thanks in advance!

Nandayo.

One more time (6)

2009-08-31T16:06:00.005+08:00

PREVIOUSLY: 'So, do you want to talk about it, Era?'

'My father knows you. How? And you knew the truth about my mother, why didn't you tell me? It looks like I can't trust you either Hunter!'

MONDAY, AUGUST 31: Hunter doesn't even look surprised that I know just how involved he was in my depressing past.

Remember how I said your instincts told you to stay away from Hunter unless you were suicidal? Well, that's exactly what I was. I'm prone to sudden bouts of depression, and sometimes it got so bad, I had to forcefully stop myself from doing anything stupid.

I was with Ian and a couple of friends, and we had finally managed to convince our parents to let us go off on our own for a holiday. So we booked our tickets, packed our bags and we set off on what was sure to become our most exciting trip ever. We board the plane and I sit at the window seat, Ian next to me and my best friend, Carolyn next to Ian on the other side. And separated by the aisle is one of Ian's buddies, Duke.

Carolyn is the one person who has been persistently trying to keep in contact with me even after I left the island, I avoided the contact though, and you'll see why in a moment. We had become friends when I was 15, and later that same year we became best friends. Carolyn just understood me, she was quirky and never really managed to fit in with the mainstream, just like me. She looked the part though, she came from an extremely wealthy family, she was tall, thin and pretty, not gorgeous, but the kind of pretty that takes you a while to notice.

Duke was reasonably more complicated. Duke, Ian and I had been best friends ever since pre-school. We hung out together and did everything together. Ian and him were almost permanent fixtures in my home in those early years. But, soon after we hit 12, Duke seemed to change. He became a whole lot meaner, and grew quite a bit, and I kind of thought he resembled an ogre sometimes. The thing is, Duke began hanging out with the athletes and he completely forgot about me. Ian was an athlete as well, so he and Duke had remained friends, but unlike Duke, Ian never was too busy for me. Anyway, the week before the summer holidays were to begin, Duke suddenly appeared out of the blue and started hanging out with Ian, Carolyn and I.

In all honesty, when I had planned this trip, I was hoping it would only be Ian and me. But then, the moment I was faced with the prospect of being alone with Ian, I realized I wouldn't be able to handle it, so I invited Carolyn to tag along. She was more than happy to oblige. So i figured it would only be the three of us, but Ian had the bright idea of asking Duke to tag along as well. So that's the background story of HOW I came to be in the mainland itself during that summer break.

Now to the interesting and slightly more painful bits. Once we landed in the mainland airport, we hired a cab to take us to the swanky hotel we had booked. So we check in, get to our rooms (which were side-by-side, and that cheered me up to no end), and begin unpacking. Once we're done, we decide to scope out the night-life on the mainland. We were 16, so naturally we managed to get our way into one of the extremely luxurious night clubs that was just a stroll down from our hotel. This nightclub was odd, for the fact that there was no loud music playing at all, and to call it a night-club would be pushing it, really. It was more of a trendy cafe/bar, very classy.

We decided to mingle with the locals, and just have a great time. So nearly an hour later, I strain my neck to look for Ian, but can't seem to find him. My mind raced to the possibilities, perhaps he was back at the hotel, perhaps I could get into his room, perhaps I could tell him how I feel, perhaps he'd feel the same way...my mind was racing. I rush to get my coat and hurry back to the hotel.

I get to our floor and notice that the door to Carolyn and my room was slightly ajar. So i tip-toe inside, and hear noises coming from our attached lounge. I hear Carolyn whispering something to a person I couldn't make out in the darkness. So I flicked on the light switch, and truly almost died from a heart-attack. On the sofa was my BEST FRIEND sitting on the lap of the guy I LOVED! Carolyn of course, didn't know I was pining for Ian, but that didn't matter, all that mattered was the fact that Ian, MY Ian was with Carolyn, who was supposed to be my best friend!

I turn my back towards them, hoping they wouldn't have seen the steady stream of tears pouring out of my eyes. I half-run out of the room and break into a full sprint towards the lobby of the hotel. Once at the lobby, I just ran and kept going till I was out of breath. It was dark out by then, and I realized that being 16, a girl and new to this part of town which looked extremely seedy was probably not a very good idea. But I was depressed, and really couldn't quite care about what was to happen to me, I just wanted to keep moving, keep walking, making sure that with every step, I was a step further from the crushing heart ache that I had just witnessed. So I walked into a bar, not really caring that I was the only girl there, and that I was getting very...interesting stares from the guys. I perch myself on one of the bar stools, and order the strongest drink the bar served.

As I was drinking, a man sits on the stool beside me and orders his drink. We spend a few moments in silence and then he turns towards me and asks me my name. We begin talking and he seems like a normal guy, not one of the carbon-copies you could find on the island. Around five drinks later, my head was spinning and I was extremely drunk. The man beside me offers to walk me back to my hotel, I accept, not really realizing truly how dangerous it was out there...or in here.

So we started walking, and it took me nearly half an hour to realize that I didn't recognize the route we were taking. I turn to the guy beside me and ask him where he was taking me and that my hotel was in the other direction. He simply nods, and tells me that he knew where my hotel was. He also said, he'd take me back the moment he quenched his thirst. This struck me as a little odd, even in my drunken state, because he had drunk just as much as I had, and I was almost in desperate need of a toilet.

As you've probably guessed, the man was Hunter, and he DID quench his thirst that night.

TO BE CONTINUED
pseudonym

Phase One

2009-08-31T14:38:00.002+08:00

As Kenneth and I walked into the ballroom, there was this sense of achievement that we felt from doing so, as if we worked hard to get where we are (we paid the guard 20 bucks). So we felt like we had to strut our stuff. Walking with a slight swagger, I made my way over to the group of people hanging around the dessert table.

The rest of our friends were here, so there wasn't anything we couldn't do together. All I had to do was suggest something, and if everyone was enthuisiatic enough, we would create our own mob. I studied mob psychology until I could get a crowd of people to do what I want. But this works in a special way: You need someone else to help you as well. You cannot move them by yourself. That was Kenneth's (or Ken for short) role. He was my nudge.

Me and Kenneth were graciously welcomed by high fives and punches on the arm, very macho stuff. After our usual banter, we look around the room, watching for potential. This was what we dealt in. Mobs.

I nodded at Kenneth, and he quietly slipped in to the loud crowd in the middle of the room, dancing on the smooth wooden floor. I nodded once again, this time at the rest of our cohort, and the fanned across the room. This was usual work for us. Every time we did this until it felt like clockwork sometimes. I thought we might try something different, this time.

Stupid teenagers, I thought to myself. Partying themselves numb at the expense of their parents' hard work. To my advantage, I added silently. My hand itched towards the knife in my trenchcoat. Nimbly I moved the knife to another pocket, concealed beneath my jacket. I hung my trenchcoat on the place where everyone else did, and proceeded to a dark corner of the room.

I sat at the table which I had already marked out before tonight's event. Sellotaped underneath was a silenced pistol, named so because when fired, caused less noise. I took it out, and quickly fired a round at a random person on the dance floor. He dropped lifelessly to the ground, much to the horror of his partner. She shrieked, and everyone nearby turned around. Not long after there was a huge crowd gathered around the man's body, blood in a pool around his lifeless form.

Typical. Next.

I spotted some of my men already in the crowd, pretending to worry, pretending that they didn't already know was going to die tonight. I chanced a wink at one of them, and his face had a ghost of a smile before he creased his brow with worry again. Everyone was in such a panic state, that no one noticed that some of thier belongings were being relieved by my men.

This was starting to bore me. I never had to put on my theatrics for a job. My plans were always flawless. As I looked around to find Ken, I was a bit surprised that I was unable to find him. I was always able to find him after a job. Always. I dumped the gun under the table. And walked outside, leaving my trenchcoat. I did not signal for my men to withdraw, it was too early for that.

Something was wrong.

And that certainly never happened before. My hand twitched to my blade once more.

Part 1 of 3

Editr.

One more time (5)

2009-08-30T15:39:00.006+08:00

PREVIOUSLY: 'Era, join me for dinner. I'll explain everything. And I'll prove to you that your mother, wasn't the saint you thought she was.'

'This sounds like a bore-fest to me, father. But sure, why not, and I hope you know I'm only agreeing because I'm hungry and haven't had dinner yet.'

MONDAY, AUGUST 31: It must now be pretty close to two am. I've been sitting here, in the pier, ever since I stormed out of dinner with my father some five hours ago. I leave my feet dangling in the water, and let the cool water ease my anger.

The glamorous dress I had worn to dinner, my father had made reservations at one of the fanciest restaurants on the island, was thoroughly destroyed. Perhaps it happened when I walked all the way from the restaurant to the pier, and I didn't even bother with pretenses of appearing human. A little boy in a car, stared at me open-mouthed as I walked in what must have seemed like a car going 50km an hour. Or maybe it was my expression, something between murderous rage and utter grief.

Somewhere behind me I hear a gentle thudding of feet. For normal human ears, the gentle sound would not have registered. But for me, not only could I hear the thudding of the feet, I could identify the gender and I could even identify who the footsteps belonged too.

'You're losing your touch, Hunter. I could have heard you from a mile away. What are you doing on this little island, and don't lie, you know I can tell when you do.'

'Hey, Era. I was following you, as usual. I heard the fight between you and your father. Are you alright? Do you want to be alone...?'

'Yea, Hunter, I want to be alone. Thanks for understanding.'

'No problem, I know the feeling. I'll make sure no one else joins us.'

Ugh! Some people are impossible! Hunter plunks down beside me, hanging his long legs down the edge of the pier as well. He's ruining his expensive leather shoes, but he doesn't care since he probably owns the factory that manufactured those shoes.

But I'm being rude, I haven't even properly introduced Hunter. His name is Hunter Venator, he's 25 and he's basically my blood mate.

Now hang on, a blood mate just means that he was the one who turned me into a vampire. Generally, the vampires will end up together, it's like a bond between us. We can sense when each other is in extreme danger, or is in an uncommon state of mind. The only problem is I'm still in love with Ian, and this fact annoys Hunter to no end. To Hunter, Ian is just another cookie-cutter human boy, so he doesn't see why I would rather have an Ian over himself.

Hunter has fine aristocratic features, a very sexy British accent and a huge fortune to his name. He has medium-long black hair which is a shock to his pale face, but all it does is emphasise his perfection. He has the most amazing eyes ever, it's an uncommon shade of blue, piercing and penetrating, but it also shows his huge capacity for cruelty. Hunter couldn't have been any more different from the other guys on this island, and your first reaction to Hunter would be to give him a huge berth and not get too close, unless you're suicidal. Once you get to know Hunter, you'll know you should have followed those first instincts and run for the hills. He screams adventure, and liveliness, but also danger.

And to Hunter's credit, he does outshine Ian where looks and money is concerned. I can't really explain it, but I'm never fully comfortable Hunter, the way I am...was with Ian. So long story short, Hunter being my blood mate and all, he follows me around a LOT. And we get along well, but whenever Hunter is around, trouble isn't far behind. I have to admit, I kinda fancy being around to watch what mischief Hunter will get into here, in my home.

'So, do you want to talk about it, Era?'

'My father knows you. How? And you knew the truth about my mother, why didn't you tell me? It looks like I can't trust you either Hunter!'

TO BE CONTINUED
pseudonym

One more time (4)

2009-08-30T13:02:00.006+08:00

PREVIOUSLY: I jump off my arm chair, so angry that my whole body is actually quivering. Given the opportunity I would have reduced the old toad into the ashes he deserved to be.

'How dare you?! How dare you ever bring up my mother, you filthy murderer?!'

SUNDAY, AUGUST 30: My father looks taken aback by my abrupt violent outburst.

'Now, Era, we must make sure to address that violent streak of yours, and it was developed shortly after your...transformation, I assume? Well, no worries, now that you're back home, we can turn you into the perfect lady of society, the perfect hostess and the perfect heir to my vast fortune.'

'Well, as much as a shock this may seem to you, I really don't give a damn about being a lady of society. And also, this is NOT my home, I'm only here so I can be by your side as you die, so I will be able to see you die, slowly preferably. Oh right, here's something that's been bothering me for a while now, how much did you bribe the police to not throw you in jail?'

I look into the face of the man I despise. And worse of all, this was the one person I admired in my younger days, the person I looked up to and the person who I wanted to emulate.

Not anymore though. I wanted absolutely nothing to do with this man, the man who I resembled so much. You have no idea the pain of looking in the mirror everyday causes me. Every time I want to fix my hair, I see his face, I see the face of the man who killed my mother. And the only thing I hated more than that, was the fact that I still loved him.

'Era, my dear, I didn't need to pay the police for anything. They ascertained that I was innocent. And my dear, do not be so quick to pass judgement, it's a very unappealing trait.'

'Don't tell me what to do. You let that right go the moment you killed my mother. I WILL NEVER take orders from you!'

'Era, join me for dinner. I'll explain everything. And I'll prove to you that your mother, wasn't the saint you thought she was.'

'This sounds like a bore-fest to me, father. But sure, why not, and I hope you know I'm only agreeing because I'm hungry and haven't had dinner yet.'

TO BE CONTINUED
pseudonym

One more time (3)

2009-08-30T01:21:00.011+08:00

PREVIOUSLY: There's a strained silence in the car, and I know the both of us are remembering the times we shared, and how we hadn't made any contact in 3 years...

SATURDAY, AUGUST 29: So during that horrible strained silence, I realized that Ian was the reason I had changed so much. I never ever wanted to feel that hurt and crushed ever again in my life. Can you imagine the devastation? Having been in love with the guy for four years, and he didn't even have the decency to say 'goodbye' or 'take care' to me. And I can excuse him for not saying that even though I had been secretly in love with him, but what I can't excuse is the fact that we had been best friends for 10 bloody years...

'Era, I never had the chance to say I was sorry after driving off that day. I was shocked, Era! I didn't mean to hurt you...because, I think I love you too. There's not been a day that has passed since you've left that I haven't kicked myself for not stopping you, for not telling you how much I loved you too....Era?'

He must have finally noticed my expression. The pain, how I had been right all along, how I had gone about thinking and reliving that scene so many times since I left...

'Ian...stop! Just stop! It doesn't matter anymore. I promised myself that I would never ever feel that way for you ever again. I promised myself that I would never let someone else have the power to crush me ever again. And besides, I've been gone for three years now, I've met other people Ian. You didn't honestly think I would wait for you, did you?'

Ian looked like he had been slapped in the face. He didn't need to know, that what I said wasn't true...at all. That he was still always on my mind. For even though Ian was a carbon copy of everyone else, he was different, deep down. And that's what tears me up inside, I love him, but not his carbon copy self, his true self, the self he had shown to me countless times. His quirky sense of humour, his kindness, his inability to be mean, his humility and basically everything about him.

Ian is very much out of my league, and I realised this a long time ago. But I hoped. And I learned just how much pain hoping caused. So, although my heart soared at what Ian had just said, I knew he deserved better, so I said I had moved on. And sure he'd be hurt for a while, but in the long run, he would be better off for it, right?

By the time I had thought all of this, Ian had pulled up at my father's mansion. Ian gets out of the car without looking at me, and goes to the boot of his car and unpacks my bags. He then turns, gives me a curt nod and climbs back into his car and guns the engine. I was suddenly transported to the entrance of the airport, three years ago, and I had to work hard to stop myself from hyperventilating.

I had changed so much in three years, but I've been back for barely a couple of hours, and I have been transported back to the awkward kid I used to be. The overly emotional one, the one I despised.

'Ian! Wait! I lied, Ian! I LIED!!'

Obviously he didn't hear me, he just kept driving, and that over powering feeling of loneliness consumed me once again.

I take a deep breath, collect my luggage, and march my way up to the entrance of that despicable mansion that I would be calling home for the next-god-knows-how-long. I ring the bell, and wait for Jasper, my father's butler, to get the door. The moment it opens, I stride in, like I own the place, and honestly, I almost do.

'Hey Jasper! Missed me? I know! Me too, mate! Here's the bags for you to take upstairs, you know which room I want. Oh right, where's the old toad? Still alive and kicking?'

'Good evening, Miss Cavanaugh. And yes, it's a pleasure to see you so...assertive and it gives me great joy that you didn't miss your flight. Also the "old toad" as you put it, is still kicking, so to speak and demands an audience with you immediately.'

Jasper obviously wasn't very happy to see me, but who cares. I had a bigger fish on my plate, or in this case, toad.

So I stride into the library where my...father is waiting. I don't even bother plastering a fake smile on my face, instead I just walk over to one of the arm chairs and sit, my back towards him.

'Oh, I see the pretentious airs of your mother haven't been lost after all. What joy.'

I jump off my arm chair, so angry that my whole body is actually quivering. Given the opportunity I would have reduced the old toad into the ashes he deserved to be.

'How dare you?! How dare you ever bring up my mother, you filthy murderer?!'

TO BE CONTINUED
pseudonym

ROCK!

2009-08-29T23:40:00.002+08:00

"Headbangers! Assemble! Untie your hair! Put your bandanas on!"

"Lead Guitarist! That guitar of yours good to go?"

The strings twanged with the strums and plucking of the musicians.

Electric pulsing through the jacks and finally reaching the sound technician booth.

The speakers, hundreds lined above the massive stage, boomed and vibrated with energy that was being projected into the crowd,

Sound Energy.

chants filling the air, shaking it to the point where birds were falling from the sky,

the crowds were restless, pushing agaisnt each other in the sea of the hardcore,

Fan.

The lead singer raised his middle finger and pointed it towards something beyond the crowds,

the crowds roared mightily, even louder than before,

and soon fell into silence as the the rest of the band stopped,

and He said,

"ARE YOU PUNKS READY!!!"

the crowds fell into a frenzied state, and riots broke out in the sea of people,

and they soon turned away from the stage and began to move towards the river,

Across the river,

lay millions of creatures,

not born of the earth,

but was carried here by the demon himself,

no shouting, no spoken words, just the stillness,

there was No Sound.

They were called the Mute Clan,

allowing only the sounds of their claws tearing into any human that opposed them,

silencing them forever,

that was their objective,

that was why they came here,

to instill muteness,

to rip the ears off, to cut the mouth out, to chop the hands of the musicians,

Sound depleted them of their energy,

the dark force that they fed on for a millenia,

living silently in the shadows,

until,

We came,

the bringers of music and sound,

as we danced round the fire,

with the beating of the drums,

that slowly evolved to an era of ear-splitting concerts that was a worldwide phenomenon,

as sound grew more and more evident and louder,

the dark force gradually reduced to the point where they were starving to death,

The Mute then called upon its 5 leaders,

to discuss the matter,

and decide what was to become of humans,

Towards the end of the meeting,

It was decided that all humans shall perish,

and all instruments and speakers be destroyed,

and Eternal Muteness be placed on Earth.

To be Continued.

McWiggle : )

A Not So Ordinary Life Prologue.

2009-08-29T21:17:00.006+08:00

This story was thought up during my trip back to my village. Reader discretion is advised(but not necessary).

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

You know sometimes, a romantic situation happens and your heart goes all "Doki - Doki"? Well it isn't just fate. It's a talent. Why do you think when you spam in your head "Talk to me!Talk to me!Talk to me!Talk to me!Talk to me!Talk to me!Talk to me!" your crush just happens to just talk to you? when before he never noticed you? Well like i said, it's a talent. Not everyone has it. But those who do, don't know how to use it.

Well for me it's different.

For me, this talent is uncontrollable. If it wasn't obvious, this means that, well, romantic situations happen to me ALL the time. I can't say that i like it, though, i can't say i don't. But it does make one heck of a story.

My name? Well, you can call me..... Art.

Well, it all started when I was in junior high. I was merely walking up the stairs. Amber (This girl in my class who all the boys kind of have a crush on) was about 8 steps in front of me. By the time she reached the top, she looked out the window for a split second, and that was all it took. The wind blew in through the window and up skirted her. She saw me look, of course. Any NORMAL boy would’ve kept staring, but I’m not normal, AM I? I looked away. I don’t exactly know why, but I did. Her face was all red, and she looked frantically around to check for other onlookers. Then she just came over to me and bowed slightly and apologized.

“Oh, Um.. Sorry!” She blushed as she said it.

“No, no, I’m the one that looked. I should be sorry.”

“But….” Her face all red, slightly panicking.

“If anyone’s to blame, it’s the wind.” I said half-jokingly.

She giggled.

We walked back to class, her face still a red mess. As I opened the door for her, she turned even redder! Her face was completely flushed, and as she entered the class looking everywhere but at me, she tripped. As she fell forward I held my arm out to grab hers, and when I pulled her back in, she landed on my chest looking up at me. As she stared into my eyes, all I could manage was:

“So THIS is what a beautiful girl looks like up close.”

Throughout history everyone was gossiping of how we were walking together into class and how we held each other close. My friend Damien even got a photo of us holding each other.

“This is SO going on my blog” He proclaimed.

All of that didn’t matter, what kept me out of everything were my actions throughout the day. The things I did and said without thinking. Why look away from her panties? Why apologize? Why pull her in when I could’ve just help her stand up? Why say something flirtatious to her?

I was baffled, I couldn’t think straight. By the end of history I thought, ‘Hey, this is probably just a onetime thing. She is TOTALLY out of my league’. Well, you can’t believe how wrong I was. Next period was art, and my name resembling the subject name would make you think, that ironically I suck at art. Nah, in fact, you could say I taught the great Picasso himself!

I went ahead and got myself my art supplies in my art locker. However, when I wanted to start painting I saw Amber and her best friend, Hanae painting away happily. My hand jerked itself all of a sudden and I splashed my paint across the canvas, followed by the crashing of my supplies on the floor. Miss Helen, our art teacher(duh) went berserk.

“Art! Look what you did to our beautiful floor!” The students just laughed at the (not so funny) pun, get it?

I didn’t pay any attention to her though. I was looking straight to the ground, it was the same feeling, the feeling of not thinking and yet knowing what I have to do. I went down on the floor and picked up two brushes and simultaneously painting with both. Who knew I was ambidextrous? It was clear in my head, I knew EXACTLY what to paint. I slowly mixed the spilled colors together, and spilling more colors when I needed them. Everybody was taken aback, not knowing what I was doing, thinking I was crazy. They slowly retreated to the far edges of the class, thinking I was mad or something. My hand was darting at lightning speed, each stroke slowly completing the painting. When the painting got too big for me to extend my body without smudging the paint, I suddenly got up, took my shoes off, and slumped down on the floor.

I was painting with my body! Let’s see Picasso do THAT! Well, not so much my body, as my knees and arms. I still used the brush however, to refine the paint. My body was just to spread the paint. As I slowly stood up, panting, desperate to just run away, to get away from everyone, knowing the reaction that would come. I had just single handedly used the art rooms floor as a canvas, but what exactly DID I paint? Amber slumped down on the ground, her eyes on the brink of crying. Hanae was gaping in awe, but knelt down to comfort Amber anyway.

I had painted a giant-sized version of Amber and Hanae, Amber’s beautiful purple eyes looking at the ceiling, a similar pair of yellowish golden eyes, belonging to Hanae who is hugging her, both with beautiful (yet stunning) smiles on their faces. They were wearing their school uniform, Hanae slightly revealing her cleavage.

Miss Helen just stood up, and stared in awe.

I was in over my head with compliments from the boys, tease from the girls, and congratulations from the teachers. I mean, the next few days, even more random occurrences’ happened. Me bumping into Hanae, I fell into a bed of flowers, and when I came out, I had a bouquet of flowers in my hand and Amber was standing right in front of me.

So that was the first ever occurrence (or few occurrences’) of my “romance factor”.

I mean, that was in junior high. I’m in my freshman year in high school, who knows what’s in store?

Art.

(End of Prologue)

Nandayo.

One more time (2)

2009-08-28T18:36:00.008+08:00

PREVIOUSLY: I arrived at the god forsaken airport, and told you my background story. I was enjoying myself, being the centre of attention, when i noticed the oh so, delicious Ian trying to recall me...

FRIDAY, AUGUST 28: Right, so before I begin to explain Ian and my complicated background story, let me describe to you exactly how much I have changed since leaving this god forsaken town. As I've mentioned, if you've seen one person here, you've seen them all. Everyone is a carbon copy of the next person. Let's talk about the guys. Every single one of them has medium-short hair. Usually a blond or light brown. Everyone plays sports, on the weekends they get 'wild' and 'blow-off' some steam by taking their parents cars to one of the convenience stores in town. So yea, the guys here, not very interesting at all...

But it's the girls that completely blow me off my feet. Nothing has changed at all, from the way they dress, to that fake way they toss their hair over their shoulders. For instance, all the girls have long, immaculately straight strawberry-blond hair. They go to the saloon every weekend, to make sure their highlights look presentable. They get manicures and pedicures done every other weekend. Everyone wears the exact same styles, only in different colours...well, you get the picture. And I'm ashamed to say, I used to be one of those carbon copies, and I almost liked it.

But, I'm proud to say, that today, I look nothing like these fake girls, I look exactly how I want, and I can see the disapproval in the faces of the elders and an almost admiration in the eye's of the other misfits. I've got long, dark locks, with alternate streaks of bright blue, red and purple. I don't wear those horrendous mini-skirts with the collared t-shirts and tiny handbags. I wear black skinny jeans, a very complicated top, knee-high boots and a very large handbag, with a pair of ray-bans. I stick out like a sore thumb, but I like it, I like it a lot!

Anyway, Ian is straining his eyes, trying to place me, the misfit, probably giving me a mental makeover, substituting my dark locks, for pencil straight strawberry-blond hair. Then suddenly realisation hits him. It's almost comical, I could almost hear the cogs in his head working meticulously.

'Era?'

'Hiya, Ian. Took you long enough. Like my new look? Are you going to offer me a ride in your hot-shot car or just stand there gawking all day?'

'Oh, err...your new look? I mean yea. It's nice, it suits you. And yea, climb on in, where are you heading?'

'Oh, come on Ian! You can't possibly have forgotten where I live, can you? Or did you not care for me at all?'

Ian looks adorably flustered. It's insanely fun to be the one who flusters THE Ian Baxter. I remember how he was my best friend in high school, and how I used to have the biggest crush on him, and how he didn't know, and how much it hurt me every time he hooked-up with one pretentious snob after another. On the day I was leaving this hell hole, Ian had sent me to the airport. He had given up trying to talk me out of my plan to run, and I had given up trying to convince him to run away with me. So as he gives me a hug goodbye, I breathe into his ear, and tell him everything. I tell him how much I loved him, and how long I loved him. I pulled back, knowing, just knowing he would say that he felt the same way, and I would have stayed, I would have done anything for Ian. But when i pulled back, all his face betrays is shock, his mouth hanging open, and he doesn't say the words i expect him to say. Instead, he goes to the boot of his car and unpacks my bags, and I try not to cry in front of him.

'Well, you better get going, wouldn't want to miss your flight, now would you?'

And he gets back into the car and hits the gas pedal. That's all i got after being his best friend for 10 years and pining for him for 4. The last thing I hear from the guy I love, my best friend in the whole wide world, and not so much as a 'Bye'.

'You grew up nice, Era.'

I nearly forgot that I was in the car with him, I was so caught up with my flashback.

'Oh, right. Well, you look the same, Ian. The same Ian who sped off and left me in this exact same spot 3 years ago.'

There's a strained silence in the car, and I know the both of us are remembering the times we shared, and how we hadn't made any contact in 3 years...

TO BE CONTINUED
pseudonym

Striking, Vivacious, Red....

2009-08-28T14:56:00.003+08:00

Imagine belonging to the most absolutely amazing puzzle of all time. Medium in size, Nearly 10 pieces altogether, and absolutely exquisite. Truly a collector's edition. A puzzle you would truly be proud of being a part of, for although it is ingenious in its simplicity, it is also breathtaking in its beauty.

Every colour an outstanding shade, and not just different shades of the same family. Everything from a bright, vivacious red ;) to a dark, luxurious gold.

But what happens when that extra-ordinary puzzle becomes just a little too crowded? When the colours, somehow, don't seem to harmonise in the same way it used to? When it's almost as if, the colours are beginning to form cliques according to what family they belong to? Almost as if, the colours have secrets from each other...

Simple, there's really is only one good option.

a) You stick through it. Although it may hurt, although it may suck, although it may have the potential of turning that striking, vivacious red into a bleak grey. Nothing is ever as bad as it seems. And given enough time, enough motivation and pushing, that beautiful shade of red, may once again rejoin it's counterparts and once again make that puzzle whole, for really, without that shade of red, the puzzle is quite bland...

No matter what happens though, each piece of the puzzle was given a piece of advice, all different from every other piece. And here's the advice given to the vivacious red piece;

"No one can make you feel inferior without your permission."

So what will happen to the little red piece? Will it ever regain its former shade of splendour? Or is it cursed to remain its current shade of dull grey?...Only time will tell...

Another option of course is for the formerly vivacious red piece to join up with Jack's formerly lost puzzle piece. And together the two little puzzle pieces could perhaps create their very own puzzle!! ;)!!!!

END
pseudonym

NIGHT HUNTER(2)

2009-08-28T14:18:00.003+08:00

Chapter 2

Soon the city of Gravia will be in sight. I can almost taste her blood now, I will always remember that scent. The scent of death roots everywhere she walks. Now I would have to think of ways to take care of her servants. I certainly have my own but I am saving Rokem for a higher purpose. The older one I can handle, its secrets already revealed to me. However, the other one still worries me. The countess has taught me most of my knowledge and it would be best if this new servant does not function the same as my own. Spies would certainly put her on guard. I mean it is simply impossible for any human no matter how skillful in the arts of stalking can actually stay undetected by my kind.

“Most troubling news, supreme lord of lords.”
“Yes, Rokem?”
“The ruler of Gravia, King Axel is going to celebrate the birth of his newborn son”
“What does this newborn have to do with my mission? Be quick!”
“King Axel will be having a party for this celebration and…..”
“Rokem, it would not do to test my patience.”
“Dorian will be attending this celebration, my lord.”
“If you have nothing else to report, leave.”

It seems like the gods themselves are trying to oppose my plans. DORIAN! Most respected of the DeathWatch, slayer of the Dark Hunger clan, destroyer of the Eternal Thirst fortress. Even the most powerful vampires take caution when his name is spoken. Rumors have said that he could smell us like how we smell blood. Rumors are rumors but sometimes they hold a measure of truth. I doubt he can take our scent but I am very much sure that he is able to detect us one way or another.

Should I leak information about the countess to him? If he finished her off for me then I would not have to go through the trouble and also the danger upon my self. However, if he tracts me from the letter, my head would also end up his medal. Also, I would certainly prefer to have the chance to tear the countess apart my self. It seems I would need to act with heighten precaution, the slightest news would certainly bring Dorian to my neck.

I have already prepared my surprise for the countess, but I would still require the plan for the new servant. Dorian’s case however, I would just have to hope that the celebration will take his eyes far away from my activities.

“We have arrived in the city of Gravia, most cunning of lords.”

“Rokem, prepare your self. The moment the moon fully shines on this city, I want to be well equipped for my NIGHT HUNT.”

Commisar

One more time (1)

2009-08-27T19:09:00.007+08:00

THURSDAY, AUGUST 27: Yups, so I'm back in this god forsaken town after three blissful years. In this backwater town, where everyone knows your full name, your parents names and probably even your grandparents name. This little town where everything you do will become the stuff of gossip the next morning.This little town is actually an island, so even though its picturesque, the only life-line to PROPER civilization is about a two and a half hour plane ride away. So the moment I hit 18, I ran for the hills...

THIS is the town I was born in exactly 21 years ago. And being forced to come back, on the day I finally turn into a legal adult, absolutely and completely stinks.

So you might ask, what in the wide world convinced me to come back,since I despise this place so much? Simple, my sick and dying father. But, don't feel sorry for me. I don't really care. There is no love lost between the two of us, I'm only here because it's an obligation, and the moment he goes six-feet under, I'll be out of here so fast...

I suppose you think I'm a horrible and ungrateful daughter, and how could I be so cold-blooded? Simple, the bastard killed my mother. He probably would have done away with me too, only he didn't know that I BITE. Confused yet? Well, you should be.

You see, when I turned 16, I had a fascination for the dark and morbid. I mixed with the wrong crowd, this was all during my summer break where I flew to civilization. Long story short, you know how your parents always told you that vampires don't exist? Yea well...they lied.

And here's the 411 for you, we don't have a problem with garlic,we love the sun, we can go to church, the cross doesn't affect us. So yea, we're just like you, only we don't drop dead quite as easily.

So that's my tear-wrenching story. I'm now in the god-forsaken airport, about to look for a god-forsaken cab to get to the god-forsaken mansion my father lives in. Ha! On the bright side, the moment the old toad croaks, I suppose the mansion is mine.

As I walk over to the cab, I notice all eyes on me. Go figure. When you come back to such a back-water place after living in glitzy Paris and Melbourne, you're bound to attract attention. You see, I used to fit into the cookie-cut perfect lil girl mould, since everyone on this god-forsaken island looks the same. Not anymore though. Perhaps it's because the colour of the blood in my veins have changed, but everyone seems to give me a wide berth, not that I'm complaining. Too bad, i suppose they don't realize that I can hear every insignificant thing they are whispering to each other. Oh well, I kinda like the attention...

And then I see the oh so delicious Ian staring right at me, trying to figure out whether he was seeing a ghost...ooo,but that's a story for another day ;)

TO BE CONTINUED
pseudonym

Retard

2009-08-26T23:19:00.003+08:00

Cynics exist,

and so do hardcore fanatics, like me,

and I know,

I've seen em', their everywhere, I see them looking back at me,

waving their tails and staring at me with those reddish, almost maroon, eyes.

I talk to them sometimes, but only to ones that are not ugly or evil-looking,

there are a couple who are kinda cute,

but they arent many nowadays,

they told me that the evil ones devour the cute lookin ones to feed on the life force that emanates from the hearts of these little creatures,

these creatures seem to be existing in a parallel dimension,

and for centuries they have been waiting for the right moment,

to alter their universe so as to merge it with ours,

thats why I can see em,

they are close to finishing what they have begun a millenia ago,

when the time comes,

the moon will crack open,

and all the little creatures that habitat a world next to ours will coexist with us,

what will be the outcome you ask?

it depends on the cuteness of the creatures or the lack of it,

if it was the latter,

then our world will be devoured and hell will rise from beneath us,

and nothing will save us except death itself,

sigh.....

I've been trying to warn everyone,

but they won't listen,

"CANT U SEE THEM?? THEY'RE EVERYWHERE!"

they laughed at me,

called me names,

playing pranks on me,

and I have been wondering recently,

wether its the prescription I've been taking that's causing my delusions,

Its good though,

helps keep me from doing things that wouldnt be true of what my parents had wanted me to,

but they're gone now,

and I've been showing pretty good behaviour until I started seeing the creatures,

it got me freaked and people started avoiding me and stuff,

hmmm,

maybe I should start goin to that church thingy that I heard of from my diminishing circle of friends, I'll pay a visit tomorrow then. What's the worst that could happen? Change. I guess that was what I needed.

But I still wondered wether I wasnt just imagining those,

Creatures..

McWiggle : )

Puzzle...

2009-08-25T10:35:00.003+08:00

Once upon a time, there lived a little boy called Jack. He had a fascination with puzzles. He used to make his own puzzles. One day he made his masterpiece. It was a small but extremely coulourful little puzzle. Now all the colours were shocking in their contrast, and yet, they complimented each other perfectly.

Jack treasured his little puzzle. But one day one of the little pieces dissapeared. Now this piece wasn't one of the main pieces, it was a neutral colour that did nothing much for the puzzle as a whole. So as time went on, the puzzle began to look even better without the little missing piece.

But one day, while cleaning his room, Jack finds the missing little piece. The piece has been bent and has changed shape. So when Jack tried to fix the little piece back into the puzzle, it didn't fit. So now the question arises, what happenes to the formerly missing piece, now that it has returned and does not fit in the whole anymore?...

Does it go and find another puzzle, where it might fit in better? Or should it mould itself, change itself just so that it could fit in...? So the question really is, should it be who it really is, its new and improved self, a self with a lot more colour or should it go back to its former neutral shade and shape, just to fit in with the puzzle once more?...

END
pseudonym

NIGHT HUNTER(1)

2009-08-23T14:16:00.002+08:00

Chapter 1

Thirst. Hunger. Violence. How nice it would be to slaughter these fat, juicy nobles. The sight of their blood spraying into my mouth would most certainly be satisfying. NOT NOW! If I reveal myself now, I would certainly be hunted by the DeathWatch. Those accursed vampire slayers are too powerful even for the likes of myself.

CURSE the countess for bringing me into the world of the undeath. The benefits of immortality, inhumane strength and agility may have seemed great at that moment but now it is only a mistake I have gravely made. The price of such power is too much. Now I am unable to take in the sensation of taste (except for blood of course) and the feel, the touch of flesh. The worst part of course is the never ending thirst for blood. The life fluids that flow in all breathing beings.

At first animals could satiate my hunger and it had not been a problem because no one would gravely miss a cow or two. But now, every time I give in to the thirst, someone ends up dying and with that the city guards will be on alert. If that was not bad enough, I had fed carelessly once, only ONCE, and the guards were able to determine that the killer was a bloodsucker. News in the city travels fast, especially when the undead are included in it. Now the DeathWatch are roaming the city, with the sole purpose of taking my head as a trophy for their god.

Before this, I was a noble my self. I had my life laid out for me and all I had to do was smile and wave. But that accursed countess had lured me with the promise of power. If only I can find her somehow, I would gladly tear out her throat and suck her dry. For now I would need to control the hunger and pretend to take interest in the babbling of fools. Once I gather the information about the location of the countess. I would hunt, yes I would be the true hunter of the night. What better game then to hunt those as augmented as yourself.

A few weeks has gone by. Frustration continues to tear into my mind. The location of the countess still unknown to me. A knock on the door awakes me from my nightmares. Rokem, my faithful servant enters with an urgent looks.

“Most powerful of lords.”
“Yes Rokem? My temper is short so I think it is best if you hurry to the point.”
“My lord, it seems a lady of your description has appeared in the town of Gravia. My source tells that she in accompanied by two hulking giants, one matching your description but the other still unknown.”

The countess!? Finally she has shown herself! But she should only have one of her giant servants. It looks like she has made a new servant in such a short time. I would have to be careful with this new one. The last one had so many secrets that manage to actually buy time for the countess to escape. Not this time.

“Have our guards ready the coach at once! I would like to reach Gravia in less than a weeks time.”
“Right away, mightiest of masters.”

Commisar

Tun Fuad I

2009-08-22T01:15:00.004+08:00

The trees were blurring past me,

my legs burned as they strained to carry the weight that was me,

taking pride in the ability to overtake senior citizens,

I breathed heavily,

causing a commotion in the group of youths i just passed,

It was not of the norm for me to be moving at a this pace,

It was far different from the frequent trips from my room to the living room downstairs,

or from my room to the toilet,

yet,

here I was,

practicing the idea of living healthily,

but also on the basis of at least doing sumthin besides reading and blogging,

Accompanying me throughout this suffering was my one and only iPod,

hence the name iBan,

if thee were to be observant enough,

But songs were of utmost limited in choice and suitability,

for who listens to Wagner or say Maroon 5 whilst running,

so I've only listened to Linkin Park,

which is starting to bore/annoy me,

So that was how i normally did it,

that was the flow of routines that would always happen,

that was about to change soon enough,

It was a Monday evening,

the crowds seemed to have reduced today,

which relieved me a bit,

for I have a distaste for humans,

myself included,

Only to be rid of that hatred when I was not deep in thought,

I took out my iPod,

flipping through the albums,

and finally I chose one,

a compilation of Beethoven's,

the screaming and tenacity of Chester had taken a toll on me,

and the fact that I've listened to his album countless times over,

I decided to walk,

not in the mood to run,

thinking of the past day's that have been somehow ruined,

Unwilling to be dwelling on it any longer,

I refocused on the symphonies that were coursing through my ears,

as I was walking,

I noticed a figure behind me,

I slowed down to let him pass,

but he seemed to slow down too,

not caring wether he was waiting for an opportunity to slit my throat,

or drag me in to the depths of the lush green park that was Bukit Padang

after two rounds,

with my legs numb and shirt soaked,

I walked towards the bench that was near the entrance to the park,

Involuntarily,

My head turned to the left,

and there "he" was,

apparently "he" has jugs,

and long hair,

and a tight ass,

She smiled an with a hint of awkwardness,

and I followed,

and she laughed

and I took out my earphones,

and she said,

"Hey, are u from all saints?"

"Umm, unfortunately, yea,"

"Yeap, I knew u were someone from the school"

like all conversations that I undertake,

a moment of awkward silence always appeared between topics,

Its one of my really annoying disadvantages,

not being able to converse normally with sumone,

I smiled and went to the bench,

surprisingly..........(to be continued)

All characters are considered fictional,

unless mentioned by said author

hah.

McWiggle : )

The Fallacy of Love

2009-08-21T23:25:00.002+08:00

Could it be? That what I was feeling inside... Was it... Love? Or was it just my hormones playing tricks on me again? Well, I had to decide, and decide quick, because my cheeks were this close to hers, and our breathing could be heard by the other. Standing this close to each other, our feelings towards each other probably was mutual: We wanted more of each other.

But was I willing to go that far?

Too many times in the past have I been hurt before, hurt by those I love, because they are the only ones who can truly hurt. If someone murders your sister, you are hurt because your sister was murdered, not because someone muredered your sister, if you get my drift. So, after so many falls into the abyss, I am hesitant about entering myself into another relationship. Another chance for me to experience pain, for me to fall into a deep oppresive state.

I remember, though, the first time I fell in love. I was young, she was young, and love was young. The pieces fell into place almost like clockwork: If you loved her and she loved you, then both of you were meant to be together. How foolish, how shallow. But nothing smells, feels, and tastes as good as the feeling of new love; The love that you first feel for someone for the very first time, the love that would nudge you, nay, force you to do anything for the other.

Sad, though, that this love tends to fade the longer a relationship holds. And when that fine line tears, so does everyone's happiness. It flushes down the drain, and it dissapears, maybe forever. That happens every single time. That's why we have ex's. Do we mean it when we say, "I'll always love you"? I thought I did. I thought every single time I held a girl in my arms that it was true. I thought I would never let them go, but eventually I did, and it hurt me probably as much as it hurt them.

Did I want to love again? I was scared, sure, but yeah, I wanted it.

Did I want to get hurt again?

Knowing the answer, I leapt back to the present, where I could almost taste her on my toungue. I let her go, and I walked away, ignoring her shouts at me and her crying. I felt bad, sure, but I didn't want to feel that low again.

Editr.

Noises that kill

2009-08-20T23:23:00.000+08:00

The room was silent.
For little Mary, this silence was bliss. It was rare in her life so she enjoyed it.
Then, she heard noises. People shouting, crying and throwing things.
Fear caught her. She realized it was Them.

Mary was just 11 years old. She was weak and sensitive.

She heard noises outside her room, praying it was not another fight.
She walked slowly towards the door. Her hands was sweaty, her eyes holding back the tears.
She opened it to see what was going on and saw shadows of her parents arguing about petty things.

"Why don't you just quit smoking!!!"
"It's none of your business so just shut up!!!"
"If you have money to buy cigarettes then you should have enough money to pay the bills!!!"
"Stop shouting, woman!!I know what to do!!!"
"I can't stand this anymore!!!"

BAM.
She shut the door close but she could still hear them shouting outside.
Now, she could not stop the tears from flowing. Her hands were shaking, trembling in fear.
"Stop...." she whispered. She knew it wasn't long until they call her out and question her..

"Mary get out."
Mary wiped her tears and went out.
Her hands was still shaking..

"Mary..listen closely..We're getting a divorce." her father said.
"Wha...what?" Mary answered, holding back her tears.
"You have to pick one of us to live with."her mom said.
Mary was confused. She didn't know who to pick. She loved them both equally..
"What if...What if i don't wanna pick?what if i want to stay with both of you?" Mary said sobbing.
"Just pick one!!!" her mom shouted.
and she started crying..
She couldn't choose between them so she ran to her room and locked the door.

Outside the room they were still shouting.
Inside, Mary was devastated.
She hated the noise. She hated the shouting.
She closed her ear, hoping that the noise would fade away..
"Stop...." she said repeatedly;like a mad person laying on her bed.
She saw the family portrait that was on her table next to her.
She grabbed it and hugged it tightly hoping that everything would just disappear..
Praying that everything would just..
STOP.

It was silent again.
Mary opened her eyes and noticed something behind her.
It was a warm light..She stood up and saw a door..Fear swelled inside her..
There was a presence beside her..It was a small girl..
It was Mary when she was 6 years old..
Mary was shocked but curious.
The 6 year old Mary went through the door full of light and smiled at Mary,
encouraging her to come.
So she went through.
On the other side of the door, the light was too bright..
She couldn't see clearly, but she noticed that when she went through,
She became her 6 year old self again.
She could see clearly now. There was two more presences in front of her..
Tears started to fall when she noticed that it was her parents..
Happy together. Not shouting.
She was overwhelmed.
She ran towards them and hugged them..
She was happy again.
Happy.Warm and Safe.

Her eyes opened. She realized it was only a dream...
All the warmth, happiness and security...gone.
All that was left was..

Emptiness.Sorrow.Hatred.

She wanted to cry again but the tears wouldn't come.
The sadness was unbearable for her.

It was quiet now.
She went out of her room to search for them.
An evil thought went through her mind.
"Had they finally killed each other yet?"
She went through the living roomNothing.
"So they left me?"she thought.
There was no emotion in her anymore.
The last place she checked was the kitchen...
Still nothing.
She stared at something interesting.
It was a knife.
A smile came to her.
She took it and went to her parents room.
When she got there, she saw a packed bag on the bed.
More hatred. She threw the bag down and screamed.
She was losing it. Who could blame her?
They fought every single day, sometimes blaming even her.
Ignoring her almost every day.
There was no peace. What she had wasn't a family.
She had nothing.

The tears started coming again. But her heart was still empty..

"Why?" she said sobbing.
"Why did you abandon me God?"
The knife grew closer to her wrist..
"Forgive me God..I just can't stand it anymore.."
"I just want the noise to stop.."
And Mary slit her wrist.

END

"Death is not the escape route for any problem"

-K-

Sin No. 1 Lust

2009-08-18T21:30:00.008+08:00

I stare down at my watch for the twelfth time in five minutes. The minute-hand on my Rolex seemed to be crawling, not ticking. Oh god, why was it that men just cannot stick with any form of a schedule? Okay, that's it! I give up! If he can't take the effort to be ON TIME, then its over, done, period, end-of-story! Anyway, my best friends current boyfriend is kinda cute, and I caught him eye-ing me...shouldn't be too hard...

I suppose you're wondering who I am, well my name Elizabeth, but my friends call me Liz, so yea, everyone calls me Liz. I'm your average girl, tall, drop-dead gorgeous, blond, big eyes, i do okay in school, I'm the head cheerleader...you know, basically everything that you ever wanted to be, but couldn't!

So, thirty minutes later finds me outside my best friends boyfriends front door. I fix my face into a look of pure pain and sadness, complete with fake tears. I ring the doorbell and stand on the porch getting the water works ready. Not two seconds later, he opens the door, looking deliciously disheveled! He looks down at me, eyes full of concern. Aww, that's cute, he's way too nice. He asks me if I'm okay, and i say that I'm not, i say that i need a shoulder to cry on. SO, being the naive boy he is, he lets me in, we sit in the hall, and i put on the performance of my life.

So i really don't know why, but i don't seem to have many girlfriends. For some reason, all the friendship with my fellow school mates don't seem to last. I mean, so what if i tend to 'borrow' their boyfriends. Isn't sharing supposed to be caring? So why not share? Hmm...maybe they are right when they say girls are complicated...

It's five am, and I'm sneaking out of his house as quietly as possible. As i sneak out, i realized that i had left my car keys on his bedroom table! Darn! I climb up the stairs again, grab my keys, make sure i look presentable, then go down the steps once again, and walk head first into my best friend! oh crap!

So it looked like some fast talking was needed. Thankfully for me, everybody said i had a bright future in politics! So anyway, i make up a story on how i was actually looking for her, and got very offended that she would even suggest that i would 'borrow' her boyfriend. Anyway, one thing leads to another, and the next thing i know all the unpleasantness i knew she was capable of came out. We stand in the hallway screaming at each other, and she goes so low as to actually say that i was cheap! HAH! as if! then whats the weirdest thing of all? she gets all creepy and says in this solemn voice 'Do you know that the seven deadly sins really are deadly? And you my 'friend' portray the sin of lust perfectly'. Like a threat like that would scare me...

Anyway, i think Ive covered all the basics about me. Hmmm...what else is there to tell? Oh right, have you heard the folk tale about the seven deadly sins? Apparently my best friend wasn't kidding. In the little town i lived in, there was some crazy fanatic who went around 'bringing justice' to those he thought possessed any of the deadly sins. And everything had gone quite for a long while, so this tale had become a myth, something your mummy would tell you, so that you would listen to her. I didn't listen to her. So here i am, dead...great, right? Oh right, i forgot to mention that part didn't i? Oh well, life's fair, my best friend possessed one of the seven deadly sins as well...

END
pseudonym

Siblings of 3

2009-08-18T14:36:00.007+08:00

As the three siblings fought , their friends witnessed the horrific battle between the siblings . What was supposed to be a fun day out in the sun at the beach turned into a bloody battle between the siblings of three. They looked like normal people but they were not , they were great descendants of mighty warriors that were greatly skilled in archery with great accuracy , swordsmanship , and sorcery .

The older brother was greatly skilled in archery , accuracy and ability to use the element of fire. And because of his accuracy the use of bow and arrows were not of his liking . He prefered using guns . And seeing as he was greaty skilled in accuracy using guns was not a problem for him . He once killed 20 with a handgun with only 5 bullets . His ultimate weapon was a homing culster gun that never miss.He was named Nash.

The second brother was blessed with swordsmanship and the element of lightning. He loved fighting with swords but soon changed to using katanas and dagger , and from time to time he would use crescent moon swords to fight . His ultimate weapon was a pair of daggers that had 3 blades pointing at different directions after the guard. His skill of swordsmanship was so great that he is able to kill 10 people in 5 seconds flat with a butterly knife . He was called Sayren.

The sister was born with the spirit of water within her and was highly skilled in using sorcery.She could control water and use it as a weapon , shield , and for healing . She could make force fields and protect people , that was what she usually do when the brothers were fighting . She not to be messed with , once angered , she would create a dragon out of water and unleash her fury on those who angered her. That was her ultimate power . She was called Mirana .

Like the other times her brothers fought , Mirana would place up a force field to protect the people from getting hurt and would stay outside the force field , but this was different ; she went into the force field and fought her brothers .This was probably the most bloody battle the three siblings had in years. After the battle against their great ancestors' enemy's descendant. But this time they were fighting among themselves .Nash was furious at Sayren because their parents forged a new weapon and gave it to him . Nash was filled jealousy and he wanted to kill Sayren as he was highly favoured by their parents since young . Finally after years of holding it in , he couldn't take it anymore and he unleashed that jealousy and anger by attacking Sayren . He pulled out his homing cluster guns and shot at Sayren , who was unaware of it .When he finally realized that his brother had shot him , it was too late , the bullet were already too close to slash away . He fell to the ground after the bullets had hit him ........

to be continued .....

Nick over and out .

DEATH STRIKE

2009-08-17T15:59:00.002+08:00

“This is it goat feth-ers!” I shouted. The fortress loomed ahead of us, brimming with activities from the worshipers of the most foul of gods. We are the Death Strike kill team. Assembled from those that sinned and are given one final chance to repent. Basically, we are a team of expendable killers, and outlaws that are sent on suicide missions. Normally, Death Strike units only last a mission or two at most, but not my team. The first fething team in the bloody history of humanity, to actually survive not only one but four missions that were suppose to be our impending death. Sure there have been losses but what would a man or two matter when this planet has a lot more criminals to supply.

Back to reality, as our fifth mission, we are ‘granted’ (as if we had a choice) an opportunity to repent once again. We are to find our way into the Fortress of Dead Metal and bring the head of Helicon, leader of the heretical tribes back to our superiors. When they name it a fortress, they were NOT kidding. Walls ten times the human height, high tech auto turret emplacements, scout towers, snipers, and many more death dealing items you can possibly imagine. Then again, if you can actually think of those items then you might as well be a heretic yourself.

This would not only be a suicide mission but it would be totally impossible to break in without a full scale siege war. Not for us, first of all, my team consist of people that had their asses fethed by the life of the slums unlike those noble bred soldiers, second of all, since we are suppose to die anyway, so no one bloody cares about their lives, and last of all, we were just told that our dental plan got abolished, nothing I repeat NOTHING can make a man more fething furious then the loss of his fething dental plans. As usual I want to finish this mission knowing that my head is still intact with my shoulders. So of course we don’t plan to stay any longer than we have to. The plan? Head in, shoot anything that moves, kill target and then run out as fast as hell. For the last four missions, this plan seems to work pretty well. Problem now was, how the hell do you get into a fortress teeming with insane heretics and then get right out (with out asses intact of course) after killing their boss.

A shot hit a hands breath from where my face is. This is going to be a long and bloody day. Just when I thought we could at least sneak in quietly and take the boss out easily, then only cause chaos on the way out. It seems the gods aren’t going to make it easy for us this time. We’re just at the gates and it feels like we went and jumped right into hell.

“ARKHAM!!!”
“Called for me sir?”
“Get your fething ass down here before someone thinks it’s a good idea to shave it off for you!”
“Sorry sir.”
“You can say sorry all you want later but now I need you to rip the last gun emplacement before it turns us all into cubes. Get Falkrin to provide cover fire, then feth that turret like the fething goat feth-er you are.”
“Sir yes sir!”

This is not going well. We’re down to our last RPG and that’s not counted the one Arkham is going to use.

“Better make that shot worth something or else ill get Bondo over there to feth you like how he feth-ed the cow we had for dinner yesterday!”

A bright flash. Good, at least the turrets aren’t there anymore. Why do my men have terror in their faces? As I looked up I began to understand. The bright flash had not been the explosion of the turret. It was a targeting device. Now what in the nine fething hells would need such a large targeting reticule? Realization dawned on me. Only one weapon would need that. A Nuclear Desecrater Bomb. Nothing survives that. Especially with the amount of radiation of the fallout after the blast. This isn’t fair, not fair at all. Given time we would have succeeded again, we would have survived to die another day.
The last thing that came through my head (literally) was the blast that came right after the bomb impacted the fortress.

Commisar

If People Were Bags...

2009-08-16T15:09:00.001+08:00

If people were bags, Claudia would be a Gucci clutch, straight from the factory, delivered straight to the store, handled by stuck up shop tenders. Claudia was a princess, she was treated that way, she expected to be treated that way, her name was never shortened, it was kept regal. Her life was tenderly and delicately treated. Afternoons after school would be a limo ride to the spa for a quick manny petty, or maybe a laze in the pool while tended on by two of her twenty servants. She was of course beautiful; Her looks were complimented with the latest fashion trends from all around the world. She was the epitomy of perfection.

If people were bags, Samantha would be a Nike backpack. It would be big, enough to keep a bottle and clothes, but stylish enough to bring it around. Samantha was like that, thin, large, lanky, sportswoman of the year (every single year), all round achiever. Although not exceptionally stunning, she was popular and had a large group of friends. It was hard to find time for herself, because she was endlessly occupied with social events and parties. All in all, Sam was your typical popular girl.

If people were bags, Tracy would be that unbranded slingbag, made from China, Brazil or God knows where. Quiet and shy, Tracy silently lives her life under the radar, doing her school work, going home to her house of five siblings, taking care of her younger siblings. Tracy had no time for unneccesary matters; She was too busy working a part-time job to support the hungry mouths in the house, as her parents did not have high paying jobs. She was just your other girl next door.

One day, a shopkeeper took out three bags, a Gucci clutch, a Nike backpack and a slingbag with no name. He was trying to make a sale to a customer who wanted to buy a bag for his girlfriend.

"What'll be, young man?" The store keeper asked. "I chose these three bags because they fit the discriptions you gave me on the phone earlier."

The 19-year old smiled at the shopkeeper. "They'll do perfectly. But I can only get one."

"Only one? My, that's sad. But anyway, how about this Gucci piece? It's all the rage with girls these days."

"That may be true," the boy said, "I'm sure she'd be absolutely happy if I bought her the bag. She'd gloat at all her friends that she owned it. But realisticly, the clutch is too small to hold anything, and I'm not going to pay so much money just so she can ask for another one a few months later. Besides, I don't want her to love me just because I buy her expensive gifts."

The shopkeeper put the clutch away. "How about this Nike backpack then? It's large enough to hold more things than that small bag just now."

The boy nodded. "That's for sure. And I like how it's design is very mordern too. But I don't think she'd use this anywhere, because my girlfriend doesn't really do so many sporty stuff, and I don't think she'd bring this bag with her anywhere, because there wouldn't be any need to. Besides, if she had too much activities to do, she wouldn't have any time for me." The boy laughed.

The shopkeeper sighed and kept the penultimate bag. He crossed his fingers under the table as he pushed the last bag towards the young customer. "Well, what about this one?" His voice had more than a hint of desperation.

The boy studied the bag. "Hmm, it's not as big the backpack, nor is it as fashionable as the clutch. It's got no brand either. But," the boy paused for a moment. "But, it's far more practical, and I know that she'd appreciate it more than the other two. Eventhough it's unbranded, it doesn't matter, because I know she knows that it's from the heart. That's why she's my girl." He smiled and gave the shopkeeper the money for the bag.

"By the way," the shopkeeper asked as an afterthought, "What's your girlfriend's name?"

The boy turned around and smiled. "Tracy. Why?"

Editr.

A pinprick of light amidst darkness

2009-08-16T14:04:00.000+08:00

Ever heard of an oxymoron? Here's one for you...

I walk down those steep steps. Constantly looking over my shoulders, knowing that they would follow although i cant see them. I keep walking, concentrating on not falling, loving the adrenaline flowing through my veins. Then i reach the base of the steps, where its so dark, i can't even make out my hands in front of my face. My hair is swept back by that amazing breeze, and i hope beyond hope, that that amazing breeze could just blow my memories away. Leave me as a blank slate, a slate that i could colour and mould as i like!

I keep walking, and then i reach the edge of the building. I look down, and all i can see is the gorgeous sight of the waves lapping over the rocks below. A truly mesmerising sight, something i could stare at all my life, and never get bored.

Then it strikes me, if i were to place my right foot any further forward, then i would have found a way to get rid of those troubling memories, a way out of this hell hole. And yet, i cant do it, as simple as it sounds, i just cannot move my foot any further forward, no matter how hard i try to convince myself that it will be painless, for even i know that I'm lying to myself.

And so, i move away from the edge, i move towards a safe zone, where everything is boring and predictable, i move into towards the me that had been thought out FOR me, the me that everyone except me liked, i moved back towards a life full of bleakness.

Yet, if it were so bleak, why couldn't i make myself take that last step? That step that would have made everything okay. Then i realised that i had seen a pinprick of light amidst the darkness...

END
pseudonym

Mind of a Pianist

2009-08-16T00:54:00.000+08:00

As I played the beautiful pearl white grand piano, the sea is calm with the reflection of the sunset on it, the sun set was a radiant orange and so was the sky with a little bit of clouds. A gentle sea breeze came every once in a while, there was an eagle soaring in the sky ever so carefree just like how I was playing the piano. Playing with me were 4 friends. One was playing a shiny copper brown violin, another was playing a red wood viola, one of them was playing a dark brown cello, and one was playing a golden harp. We played in harmony as the sun set and the moon came out shining upon us. Stars started appearing like fireflies on a tree. Orcas could be seen in a distance in the sea. The reflection of the moon on the sea was magnificent. With each passing breeze , the trees looked as if they were swaying to the song we played. Rain came and slowly turned into a storm, but we continued playing this time we played and poured our souls into what we were playing. The storm turned into a hurricane but we continued playing. As we played in the hurricane, it felt as if we were being torn apart as the wind from the hurricane was blowing us away at different directions. We tried our best to continue playing but we were blown away. After the hurricane died down all that was left of the beach were the trees and instruments that were sticking close together just like the group of friends that played them.

Nick over and out

Limbo

2009-08-15T21:11:00.000+08:00

I started this year thinking it would be just another ordinary year that wouldn't go by fast enough. Hah! How wrong i was, this year has been anything but ordinary, friends have changed, subjects have changed, all new scares, brand-new relationships blossomed and old relationships have withered away. And yet, dont you always see yourself as THE ONE constant, the one thing that would never change? Hah! How insanely shallow...

So now, it being august and all, teenage dramas have bloomed into their full potential. Everyone is caught up in their own world, so much so, you ignore everyone else. And yet, you still want the whole world to revolve around you! And when it doesn't, you think its the end of the world, that nobody cares, that your all alone...

You're worried about that huge formal that's coming up next month, you're wondering who's gonna ask who and who is going dateless, you wonder whether you're going to make a fool out of yourself...

Then one day, you chat with an old friend, a friend you hold very dear. And you start complaining about your petty problems, wanting once again the whole entire earth to revolve around you. And your friend sits there listening, patiently, always giving the right responses, although dying of boredom, he has enough sensitivity not to show it.

And all of a sudden, it slaps you in the face! You see just how petty and insignificant all your problems are, when your friend just says something simple like 'I'm missing out on so much'. Then it dawns on you, when this friend gets back, everything will just fall back into place. Everything will go back to the good old days, where things just weren't so complicated. It's like being in limbo, only not realising it.

Next thing you know, you open your eyes and your back in your form 3 classroom, where everything is different and yet, not different at the same time. Sitting with your group of friends and just talking and laughing. And all those problems and disagreements were so trivial. And all those confusing dramas and cliff-hangers that are your life, is nothing more than a funny dream that you will remember only so that you can go to school the next day to tell your besties and laugh over it. Laugh at how ridiculous it sounds that so much can change in a year...

END,
Pseudonym

The Prologue

2009-08-15T13:55:00.001+08:00

I wasn't as if I fell of my bike and suddenly decided,

Hey. I should start writing books.

I think it took all the books I read since I was young.

I started writing creatively when I was, what, 11 years old? When you're young, you tend to dream limitlessly, and that's when all the ideas start pouring in. And, I don't know, but when I write, I immerse myself in the writing until I lose track of time, battery power and amount of pineapple tarts eaten. It's not something that's profound, it's something that I do.

And I know I'm not the only one! I am positive that so many other people are gifted with writing, they probably just havn't discovered it yet. Just because you don't have the means to get your novel published isn't a good reason why you shouldn't kep writing. I'm just an avenue for you to express your creativity, and for others to come and admire your works. Etc.

I created this blog so those who just want to lose themselves awhile (after Facebooking and gaming themselves senseless) by writing and reading can find a little safe haven, just for a little while, eventhough life seems bleak, 'cos, hey, that's these years of our lives.

Please do,

because none of this would be

a success

without anyone coming here anyway.

This alignment thing is fun.

Uh, so yeah. Welcome to the Escapist World, where you don't need to leave. Unless your connection sucks.

Editr.