Eighty Sixth Friday Flash: Going Viral

Image Source

AP53 didn't know what to do. Everyone was infected. It just took the slightest touch and he would be infected too; doomed to lose all function every so often to sprout out 15 to 30 seconds of viral advert phrases like “50% off all stock.” “Act now!” “Gimble sausages are the tastiest you will ever eat.” “You are nothing if you don't own a Capone hat.” “Are you a loser? Then became a winner today with 72 easy monthly payments of $12.99.” It was enough to drive anyone mad.

Bizarrely no accidents had been caused by it yet, with the virus program seeming to recognize the user would be in a life threatening situation if it activated at the wrong moment, but people couldn't be busy all the time. Taking public transport was a nightmare with random slogans being thrown around continuously. 

Everything had been tried from root installs to total wipeouts. It was because the systems installing the restore points were infected too and just reloaded the virus. There were numerous “cures” out there, but all of them had been proved to be bogus conmen trying to make a quick buck.

But if AP53 didn't connect to the NETWORK soon he would lose his job and apartment. His supposed permanent connection AM69 had left him last week, saying he was against change and should just accept it. But why should he let large corporations hijack his body and turn him into walking billboard.

Most ignored it, they were so bombarded with adverts that they just didn't care anymore. A few had taken their lives because it was just too much. His friend ART78 had thrown himself into a garbage compactor just that morning. The police were at the door.

“Please sign this release form,” said the android officer. ART78 had left him his entire digital collection of movies and literature.

Shocked and operating on autopilot AP53 pressed his thumb to the electronic clipboard.

The door closed behind AP53 and ten seconds later he stopped dead still. “Are you a lonely bachelor and looking to settle down? Then look no further than 'Date an Officer.' Your number one source for meeting potential dates in uniform.”

Seventy Eighth Friday Flash: Venus' Way

Pyro Flowers by Katie Cresswell. Image found here:  

There was another dust storm, and with near gale forces winds it was like being sandblasted. It pelted against the tram windows. The other passengers were grim too, bowed heads and sad faces. All except one. A woman with golden hair that seemed to shine. She had a glorious smile on her face, she tapped her delicate fingers on the seat in front.

Korvus was drawn to her. What was her secret? Why smile when water was rationed to a few cupfuls a day.

Korvus had to find out. He sat next to her. She didn't seem to notice him at all. Just carried on looking out the window.

“Why so happy?”

“Why not, there's a lot to live for.”

“You're one of them rich folk aren't you? One of those people who relish in showing off their water. I heard yesterday that someone was keeping a gold fish. Can you imagine that? A gold fish!”

“Gold fish are pretty.”

The girl leaned past him and pulled the string for the bell. He breathed in an enchanting scent. Korvus was still two stops away from the hovel he called a home.

The girl with the alluring smile hopped off the tram. Seeming to take any hope for happiness with her. Caught on a whim he chased after her and leaped off the tram as it got going again. Using a scarf to protect himself from the worst of the wind he looked for the girl.

The girl was already disappearing around the corner of the next street. Korvus dashed after her. For four blocks he followed her. Trying to catch up, to stop her, but she was too fast.

At last they reached a back alley. The girl in the yellow dress went down it. It looked a bit dodgy, but if she wasn't afraid why should he be?

He walked halfway down and could not find her at all. Maybe it was just a shortcut. Then he heard some some clanging. He looked up. She was climbing up a ladder. Within moments she was up on the roof.

Too late to turn back he went up after her. Short of breath and dying for something to drink he stopped climbing as soon as his head reached eye level with the roof. All before him was a green garden. Stuffed with flowers, fruits and vegetables. Not even the richest water hog could afford to raise so much agriculture.

“Amazing, isn't it?”

“Sure is, and I wasn't stalking you if you wanted to know.”

“I know,” she said with a smile.

He didn't know which was more beautiful. Her or the garden. The garden was surrounded by other buildings, protecting it from the worst of the winds.

“But how? Water is so scarce.”

“Let me show you.”

She beckoned him forward, deeper into the dense garden. A horrible stench reached his nose. He gagged. 

“Hey, what's that smell?”

There was no reply. Just laughter. Korvus turned around. The lady in yellow didn't look so sweet anymore. Vines were twirling around his feet and hands. Strong vines he had no hope of breaking.

The lady stopped laughing abruptly. “Did you know the average human being is 55%-75% water?”

Korvus couldn't reply. There was a vine tightening itself around his neck.

“Oh well, a woman's work is never done, I better getting going. I wouldn't want my little darlings to go thirsty.”

The last thing Korvus saw was the strange girl kissing a rose and sauntering off towards the ladder.

Seventy Seventh Friday Flash: Fire Fight

You can read the other parts here:

River Fire

Fire Monsoon

Fire Flood

Fire Rain

Fire Fountain

Fire Awakening

Fire Hair - Image Source

“So, how was your day?” asked Phoebe.

“Some drama this morning, a couple and their kids came in and moments later another woman comes in. She's friendly at first and then shouting and screaming that the guy ruined her life and took away her children,” said Tony. They were eating take away food at his place. It wasn't nice as Phoebe's, a small apartment above the convenience store he worked at.

“Drama for sure, the kids?”

“They seemed to be clueless about it all.”

“A shame, and I bet the woman must be in a lot of pain.”

“Indeed, sorry for bringing it up.”

“Don't be, life ain't pretty, hardly ever is, but when it is you must treasure those moments.”

“Like this one with you.”

Phoebe laughed. “It's hardly special, this food isn't the best.”

“I mean the company, any time with you is precious.”

“You charmer,” said Phoebe cracking a smile.

“I try my best,” he smiled broadly back.

Phoebe took the last sip of her coffee. “I better be getting home.”

“Are you sure you don't want to spend the night?”

“You need to get up early and I have things to do, maybe some other night, okay?”

There was a moment of sadness before the smile returned. Tony stretched and yawned. “I am pretty darn tired.”

“I will get my car.”

“I came on my scooter remember?”

“Yes, yes, I am tired. I will come down with you.”

The wind was biting outside and Phoebe's coat seemed inadequate. She hugged herself.

Tony took off his jacket and placed it over her shoulders.

“I...”

“No, I don't need it,” he said giving her a quick kiss on the cheek.

“Th... Thank you.”

“Think nothing of it, now go, and be safe, see you tomorrow?”

“Sure,” she said with a smile.

She got on her scooter and drove off. Only looking over her shoulder for the briefest moment. Tony was still there watching her leave.

Phoebe drove on, thinking about Tony and what she was going to do about him. She was about two blocks from home when it happened. The woman, she was going to walk in front of a night bus, Phoebe could not let that happen. She gunned her little motor and hooked the woman with her left arm. Pulling her to the side.

Phoebe lost balance and they both went down. Seemingly oblivious the bus disappeared around a corner.

Before she could get up the woman came charging at her. “What did you do that for, cow!”

“Saving your life.”

“I don't need your help. I made my choice.”

“And want about the bus driver and the passengers, how will their lives be after they discover you squashed under the wheels?”

“I do not care, I don't have my man, and he stole my kids.”

“Whoa, slow down here,” said Phoebe pulling the woman aside and then her scooter, which she didn't know if it would work again.

“My like is ruined is what I'm saying!” screeched the woman.

“Wait! You were in Tony's store weren't you?”

“Tony?”

“He's a nice guy.”

“I'm sure he is,” said the woman with some resentment. Another bus came around the corner. “If you don't mind I have a bus catch.”

The woman moved forward, Phoebe grabbed her hand and pulled her back. “No you don't!”

“Leave me alone! Who are you to tell me what to do!”

“I've been there, I've been down. Don't give into it. Fight. Are you going to give up just like that?”

“What choice do I have? I can't see my kids. The bastard and the courts won't let me.”

“What about when they are adults? They will be able to make their own decisions then right?”

“And?”

“You build up your life, you find yourself, make yourself happy and by the time you are ready hopefully they will be too.”

The woman was silent for a few moments. “I guess I could get my old job back and do those courses like I wanted.”

“That's it.”

“But no! It's too hard.” The woman tried to move again, but Phoebe did not let go.

“Life is never really easy, you just have to work at it and do your best.”

“Okay...” said the woman looking towards a truck that was coming. It was clear she was not listening properly.

Phoebe had no choice. She had never done it with someone so close before. Closing her eyes she manifested River Fire. Opening her eyes Phoebe was taken by the beauty. Flaming hair and trimmer and sleeker body River Fire was the fantasy version of herself. It was the first time she had seen her alternative self while fully awake, but it was hard work and she doubted she could hold it for long.

“What... what is that/”

“Your worst nightmare if you don't do what I say,” said Phoebe and River Fire together.

The woman broke down and sobbed. “Alright, alright, for my children I will try.”

“Good,” said Phoebe taking off Tony's jacket and putting it around the woman's shoulders. “Let me take you home.”

The jacket was full of holes from the fall. She hoped Tony wouldn't mind.

Seventy Third Friday Flash: Antopia

Image Source

“Come on, or we are going to be late!”

Manny clicked his mandibles in frustration. “I don't want to.”

“Do you want to learn about your past or not?”

“Okay, okay,” said Manny dragging himself away from his computer.

It was a five minute tunnel ride to the event. It was decidedly low key considering how much his big sister had been harping on about it. About a hundred other sectoids at most.

“You have me here, now what?”

His big sister shook her oval head, her compound eyes showing disappoint in him. “Such little respect. You see his gray hair and the languid way he moves?”

Manny was thinking about getting back to his game. The thing before was so fleshy and hairy, it made him cringe. “Yeah.”

“They say he's old, not much time to live, lost his appetite for food and life when his partner died.”

“And, doesn't it have a Queen, isn't there millions more of them?”

“That's the fascinating thing, there were millions of them, billions of them in fact, until a disease wiped most of them out a long time ago. Scientists found remnants of a colony underground. Breeding programs were tried. None worked. I suspect maybe they were too old and most of them had the same sexual equipment.”

Manny shrugged. “A bummer for them.”

“I don't know why I even bother.”

“Okay,” Manny went up to the glass tank. The old shriveled creature seemed to regard him with open fear. “I'm sorry you guys were wiped out and stuff. Better luck next time.” Manny whipped around. “See, are you happy now?”

“I should slap you,” said his sister raising two of her left limbs up in the air.

“Try it and I will tell mom.”

His sister shook her head. “I wonder if our species will fair any better than this poor soul and his people in the long run.”

“With annoying sisters like you around I doubt it.”

:”You know what I think this guy is the lucky one, let's go home so you can get back to your precious game.”

“Yay!”  

Seventy Second Friday Flash: Love Beyond Death

(image source)

“You're doing it wrong,” said his girlfriend.

“Woman!” said Hamill with a mouth full of foamy toothpaste. “Will you leave me in peace!”

“Ha! If it wasn't for me your teeth would have fallen out by now.”

“And for that I thank you, my dear,” said Hamill, his voice softening.

Hamill spat out the toothpaste and gargled water before turning around and walking straight though his girlfriend. For you see his girlfriend Angie was dead. She had been for over a year now, but it hadn't meant that she had stopped telling him what to do.

oOo

“Slow down,” she said. “Your work isn't going anywhere.”

She sat next to him like she always had. Her mother was an English teacher and her father a concert pianist. Prim and proper described her to the bone. Her eyes watching his every move. It had been different when she was alive. Then he could keep her quiet with a kiss on her beautiful lips.

At first he thought it was madness of the grief he was going through that produced the manifestation. Over time it became all real, even some of his friends and family swore they saw glimpses of her.

oOo

“Sit up straight!” she said from over his shoulder at work.

“Yes dear,” he mumbled.

“Talking to yourself again?” asked a coworker.

“Yup,” said Hamill with a sigh. He had given up trying to fight the reputation that he spoke to himself.

oOo

Hamill snapped when he was eating food with his hands.

“How many times have I told you to use utensils!”

“Why couldn't you have stayed dead!” he growled.

Hamill instantly felt guilty and his heart sank when he saw the shock and hurt look on her ethereal face. He approached her to try comfort her, but she disappeared before he could. With a heavy heart he carried on with the rest of the day's duties. The incident playing over and over in his mind, wishing he had reacted differently.

Expecting to see Angie waiting in the car, he was sad she wasn't there. He leaned against the door and cried. Maybe her soul was finally in a happy place.

Driving along slowly back home he was taken by surprise when an unseen force slammed his foot into the accelerator. The only thing he saw before the truck hit him was Angie's lips mouthing the words “I love you.”

Seventieth Friday Flash: A Whole Nest of Trouble

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Rimotar was going to be in trouble again. He could just imagine the look of disappointment on his mother's face. Just like when he forgot a sleeping toad in his robe and it leaped onto the dinner table and broke his grandmother's teapot. Father fixed it, but it was never the same after that.

Now he found himself covered in mud and peering over the edge of a cliff, staring down at a griffin's nest. There were three golden eggs glittering in the morning sunshine. Timing was important, their mother wouldn't be away for long.

The fact he had seen it hunting near his parents' cottage had given him the idea to inspect the nest. They were so tantalizing close. He just had to risk it. Going down Rimotar went from handhold to handhold. Using skill and patience he made his way down, a few minutes later he lowered his foot onto the branch. He tested his weight. It seemed alright.

Turning around he almost lost his balance when noticed how high up he was. Steadying himself and taking a deep breath Rimotar lowered himself down into a sitting position. Inching forward, he wished he had brought his backpack so he could lift all three.

He had to hurry, there was no telling how long their mother would be. The nest smelt horrible and made his eyes water. It was covered in bones, feathers and other remains. Holding his breath he put his hand on the closest egg. It was surprisingly warm. He lifted it up, it was a lot heavier than expected. He looked up at the steep slope, going back up wasn't going to be easy.

There was something moving in the egg. He had better go if he was going to make it back in one piece. Climbing was a lot harder with only one arm free, but his legs were strong and he made good progress. About halfway up heard a loud shriek behind him. The claws dug into his back and the egg slipped out from under his arm as he was pulled up. Luckily Rimotar was able to clamp on to the egg with his feet before it was dashed on the rocks below. He kicked up the egg and grabbed it with both hands, and held it tight against him. The warmth of it reminding him of his mother's embrace.

The griffin pulled him in closer as it glided around. His heart pounding and doing his best to ignore the searing pain Rimotar bit the griffin's lion like front paw. Rimotar, egg and all plummeted down towards the ravine below. In mid air he twisted until he was between the egg and the ground. At least the egg would be safe. His only thought was at least he would going out with a bang and not shackled to a desk like his old man.

A warm feeling flushed through him, like he had been placed in warm oven for a couple of minutes. He shut his eyes and waited for impact, but it never came, or not as bad as he thought it would be. Rimotar stopped an inch away from the floor for the briefest time before dropping the last inch The drop jolted and shook him, but he was still alive.

Was it finally confirmed? Did he really have magical abilities like he had expected? But there was no time to think about it, the griffin was barreling towards him. Scrambling, he hid under a rock. He had to push himself back more when the beast rushed at him and swiped at him with its massive paws. The rock wobbled dangerously, but try as it might it could not get close enough. Squawking angrily it retreated.

Rimotar shifted, trying to get into a more comfortable position. The griffin came rushing back, clawing and swiping with its massive paws. It caught Rimotar by the ankle and ripped up his shoe. It left again. Bleeding from two wounds and trapped he wondered how he would explain all this to his mom.

The egg began to crack.

Sixty Ninth Friday Flash: Golden Years

Being a veteran of the Elfwood war and the quest for the golden chalice Ogg was no stranger to danger. But these were supposed to be his golden years. Years of rest and relaxation. The young fire troll didn't seem to know that. The fur of the neck of the red furred fire troll was standing on end and she was crouched down like a cat. It had only been a matter of time before someone challenged him for leadership of the clan, but it was surprising that it was coming from a girl, especially his own daughter, Tumalta.

Short and fiery tempered she definitely took after her mother.

“Tumalta, have to do this?” asked Ogg just standing there, towering over his daughter, his green fur going gray in places.

“Shut up, dad, I'm sick and tired, when I become the leader no one will tell me what to do!” she shouted.

Ogg sighed.

Trolls of various kinds were gathered all around them. Things had become more interesting after the clans began to mingle more after the war.

“No daughter, too young.”

“I challenge you!”

There were gasps from the gathered crowd. Ogg shook his head. There was no turning back now.

Tumalta shrieked and charged forward and tackled Ogg around the midsection. Ogg was pushed back a few inches, but did not fall over. Seeing that she wasn't getting anywhere she pulled away and bashed him with her fists. Ogg gauged the crowd. A few were cracking smiles and some were on the verge of laughter.

Ogg pushed Tamalta as gently back as he could. They had wrestled a lot when she was younger, but it was different now, she was almost a lady. Enraged she charged back at him and punched him. Ogg doubled over. “Ouch!” It really was more painful than he thought it would be.

Taking advantage she bashed at him more. Raining blows on him. As much as he loved her, she was just not ready for such a leadership role. The tribe was at a tipping balance and they still needed him.

For a few minutes he let her get all her frustrations out. He remembered being the same at her age. So much anger. It was a part of being a troll.

Exhausted she stumbled back and collapsed into a sitting position.

“Done?”

“Yes, father.”

“Good,” he said helping her up. “Maybe next time.” He added with a wink.

She smiled weakly.

Creaking and aching all over, maybe she would really win next time.

*For those of you have read my books you might find Ogg familiar, but if not you can find out more about him and the books here The Red Stone and Zoolin Vale and the Chalice of Ringtar. 

Sixty Seventh Friday Flash: Phantom Footballer

Joshua Harmony (2005)

“I can't believe it, Barry Burma will be playing with us tonight.”

“Nah, it's not really him, it's a gimmick. A ghost.”

“Not just any ghost, a revived and holofied ghost. Hell, my shoulder is still smarting from yesterday's training session.”

“He's good, but it's kind of cheating isn't it? To have an all time great on our side?”

“Are you kidding me? The Rockets have Steve Stoner on their side. He can take on a freight train and win.”

“It's a good thing they only allow one holo player per team.”

“Exactly, my friend, so let's get out there and kick some ass. Maybe one day we will come back and get all the holofied babes.”

*If you like this ghost story you might like these others too: Ghost Bus, Fight for your Right and The Other Side

Sixty Sixth Friday Flash: Fire Awakening

Part 1, Part 2 Part 3 Part 4 and Part 5

Image Source

“I can't believe it, so you bribed the receptionist?”

“If you call chocolates and flowers bribery... then yes.”

“Oh, I thought you had your eye on me?” said Phoebe with a raised eyebrow.

“The kind lady behind the desk is old enough to be my mother and you know it.”

“Maybe so, but love can spring up anywhere.”

“Granted,” said Tony with a smile. “Been having a bit of trouble getting back into your stride again?”

Phoebe brought her hot coffee cup to her chest to warm herself up, “Yes, not easy, plus I think the coma has broken me.”

Tony frowned. “How so?”

“Weird dreams and things happening when I blackout.”

“That's why I wanted to see you, I've been thinking about the whole thing, with the doctor and nurses, all burnt to death, plus how I saw you when we first met, with that fire costume. Somehow it's all connected.”

“You seem so confident?”

“Maybe I'm crazy,” said Tony looking away.

“No, I think I'm the one who is crazy.”

“Not at all,” said Tony, moving forward as if to comfort her.

“So, what are you going to do now? Turn me in?”

“Far from it, besides, what evidence is there to connect you with any of it?”

“I'm still questioning if all of this is real.”

“Maybe we can learn how to control it.”

“We?”

Tony laughed. “Do you think you will be able convince someone else to help you?”

“Don't need help.” Phoebe crossed her arms.

“Didn't seem like that a little while back, that was no simple nightmare.”

“Possibly, but what can be done?”

“Meditation.”

“Oh, super. A convenient store clerk is going to teach me how to channel my Chi.”

“Hey, I have doctorate in philosophy.”

“Alright, alright, then what?”

“Then maybe you can control the power, use it for good.”

“How do you know I'm not the next super villain in waiting?”

“I checked up on that doctor and nurses, not the best people.”

Phoebe smiled, “Such enthusiasm.”

“Ah, such a beautiful smile.”

“Buster,” she said staring him down. “Let's focus, ready to get started?”

“Always.”

oOo

“That's it, that's it, I can see you.”

“How clearly?” asked River Fire.

“Clear enough, your costume is so tight fitting,” said Tony forward and looking her up and down.

River Fire vanished again. “Thanks, a lot!” said Phoebe from his side. Looking up from her crossed leg situation.

“Still very good progress, and can't believe it, you can actually manifest an ethereal being outside yourself.”

“We should work on the fire next, I want to be able to control it more and not rely on my emotions.”

“Maybe tomorrow, you've been working hard this week, I've never met much an avid student.”

“I don't know, that coma guy is regaining his power, I saw him yesterday, I think he's planning another attack.”

“Only in your dreams, he can't manifest himself like you can.”

“Still very scary though.”

“If he does just remember the escape tricks I taught you.”

“I will, once we're ready, what happens next?”

“We go bring some justice to the world.”

“Oh, goodie, can't wait,” said Phoebe sighing and collapsing onto her pillow.  

Sixty Fourth Friday Flash: Fire Rain

Part 1, Part 2 and Part 3

Image Source: Fire Rain by Srio 

The news that she had flat-lined during the operation to save her life from the nasty abdominal wound shocked her. A full two minutes and forty five seconds. They said she might experience blackouts and memory loss. It depressed her at first, but she was a fighter, and besides she was allowed to walk around the hospital unaided. It was a small step, but she felt she had gained a bit of independence again.

Phoebe walked over to the maternity ward. Seeing all those newborn babies always cheered her up when she had worked as a nurse. Her stitches were paining her and the baby viewing room was just around the corner, but she had felt dizzy and had to take a break. She stumbled, but managed to prop herself up against the wall before tipping over. Steadying herself and trying to clear her head she closed her eyes and breathed in and out deeply. That was when she heard the voices. Despicable voices.

“You say it matches their criteria?”

“Perfectly, green eyes and blond hair.”

“And the parents?”

“They don't suspect a thing, showed them the stillborn from earlier. The crazy woman shouted saying it wasn't her baby.”

“And?”

“Everyone said it was the stress of losing one so close.”

“Be sure to prescribe her enough drugs to keep her drowsy for a few weeks.”

“No problem. Half shares, right?”

“Yes, sixty five grand each.”

“Mama needs a new pair of shoes.”

“Oh yes, Barbados here I come.”

They both laughed and one of the nurses exited the supply closet a few moments later. Phoebe did her best to pretend that she heard nothing. The nurse didn't seem to notice her presence.

What had the world come to? Doctors taking advantage of nurses and now nurses selling babies. She had been out trying to make the world a better place when the bad guys were right under her nose the whole time. She felt more stressed than ever. The dizziness got worse and she collapsed.

oOo

“Hey! What are you doing here? Why are you dressed like a freak?”

Phoebe looked down at herself. Through her red tinted vision she could see she was back in her River Fire costume. She was feeling better than ever.

“It's time for justice.”

The nurse ran away. Just by using her mind alone Phoebe found herself appearing in front the frightened nurse. The other, older nurse, came bursting out of the supply closet at the younger nurse's shriek. They collided into each other.

“Your wicked ways are done.”

“No!” They shouted in unison as River Fire raised her hands to the ceiling and a rain of fire came down on human traffickers. She watched in grim satisfaction as they burned before her.

oOo

“Phoebe! Phoebe! Are you okay?” asked Tony.

Her eyes blinked open. There was stench of burnt flesh and hair in the air. “I think so. What happened?”

“They're saying spontaneous human combustion.”

Phoebe coughed. They were surrounded by nurses, doctors and police. “There seems to be a lot of that going around.”

“Sure seems that way,” he said with a raised eyebrow.

She wondered if he knew. A moment later a baby started crying.

“Who's that?” asked Phoebe. 

“A baby boy, found him in the supply closet. He has the most amazing green eyes.”

Sixty Third Friday Flash: Shark Knight Rises

Image Source: Doodle of Boredom

 Ding dong.

Bruise grunted, took off his earphones and got up from his easy chair. Who could be at the door? He was supposed to be in the middle of nowhere where no one could find him. Did he even own a doorbell? Bruise snatched open the door.

It was a juvenile Yellow Fish with square rimmed glasses. “Hel...”

“What do you want?”

“Mr. Wane, we need your help.”

“Kid.” Bruise pointed a fin at the placard next to the door. It said “NO HELP WANTED OR GIVEN.”

“But... but it's serious, the hammerheads, they're tearing up the city.”

Bruise shrugged. “Not my problem anymore. Good day to you, sir.”

“Wait, the leader, Johnny, he says you're a deadbeat loser.”

Bruise growled. His row upon rows of teeth grinding together. “I thought I killed him.”

“He survived and he's back, stronger than ever.”

“Still, I have no ride.”

The kid put his fin in his mouth and whistled. A black seahorse came swimming over.

“Manticore? I set him loose.” Bruise went over and patted his old friend.

“He's been hanging over by your old lair for years.”

“What do you say Manty? Ready for one last adventure?”

Manty raised his head and neighed. “Okay, kid show the way.”

oOo

“Hahaha!”

“Stop laughing,” said Bruise spitting out a tooth.

“You've grown weak, Wane.”

The hammerheads were all around him. Bruise was questioning his decision to come out of retirement. Would that violent end he was trying to avoid finally happen to him?

Johnny swaggered over, his scarred and pierced head bobbing side to side. Manticore snorted.

“Shut up you old nag.” Johnny slapped the aging horse.

Something snapped inside of Bruise. How dare the brute? Bruise gave his old friend a pat on the neck. “Stay here friend, I will sort them out.”

Bruise shot forward and whipped Johnny with his tale. Drawing blood. Bruise breathed it in. It reminded him of the bad old days. Not relenting for a second Bruise tore into the hammerhead gang until they was none left to challenge him. There were chunks torn out of him, a few more injuries to live with, but the punks had hopefully been taught a lesson.

Black and white Zebra Fish converged on the scene and apprehended the culprits. The old police commissioner tipped his hat. Bruise winked back.

“Come on old boy,” said Bruise. “It about time we went home.”

Sixty Second Friday Flash: Fire Flood

Part 1 and Part 2

Phoebe sat up and gasped for air. She looked around, it was all white, she was in the hospital. Nothing new there, but as her brain slowly caught up with her surroundings she noticed she was in a bed and not tending one.

A hand reached out and took her arm. Phoebe flinched away.

“Phoebe! You're awake.”

The face looked familiar. “You were being mugged, right?”

Tony scratched the back of his head. “Yes, that was me.”

“Why are you here?”

“I... you saved me... I had to at least come and say thank you.”

Phoebe laid back again. “Oh, that's nice. Come to laugh at me too?”

“No, why would I?”

“The costume... and this is St. Trinity... you promised.”

“I... the paramedics would have none of it, this was the closest place, they said any longer and you wouldn't have made it.” Tony fidgeted in his chair. “I tried at least, I said you were on the way to a superhero comic convention.”

“Oh, thank you, now they will think I'm a geek.”

“Something wrong with that?”

Some firemen went past her ward. There was a stretcher with a body bag.

“No... hey, what happened?”

“I don't know all the details, but they say the doctor, a Doctor Jones I think, burnt to death in his office. One of the nurses just escaped with her life. It's a miracle the sprinklers were able to prevent it spreading.”

“Deserved it...” muttered Phoebe.

“What was that?”

“Nothing, so are you going to sit around all day or are you going to get me some water?”

Tony fumbled and dashed away. Phoebe smiled, maybe he would make a good sidekick. How long had she been out? Had she sleepwalked and started the fire? Or had she somehow acquired the power to mentally project herself and start fires? Or maybe she was still in the coma and none of this was real?  

Sixty First Friday Flash: Fire Monsoon

Disney World: Hollywood Studios (MGM) (2008)

This is a follow up to last week's flash River Fire

There was a blur of lights, familiar voices, shouts, a very long beep, and a bright flash of light at the end. Followed by shocks of electric light like a thunderstorm in her brain which turned into slow rhythmic beats.

She felt a hand on her shoulder and she lifted her head. “Wake up sleepy head. Your shift is almost done, but at least show you're working.”

It was Grace the head nurse. She was strict with the others, but always nice to her. Phoebe felt her stomach. It was still intact. “Oh, sorry, yes.”

Pushing her self off the desk Phoebe got up and wandered shakily into the ward. Everything seemed extra bright. The last thing she remembered was being stabbed and a stranger helping her.

Using her hand to guide herself up the stairs she made her way to the doctor's office. Dr. Jones would be able to help. Just as she was about to knock on the door Nurse Maggie came busting out. Crying.

“Maggie!”

Maggie disappeared down the stairs.

Phoebe stood at the door. Dr. Jones was busy adjusting his clothes.

Phoebe's voice went deeper. “What did you do?”

“None of your concern, get back to work, Phoebe.”

“No,” said Phoebe stepping up and standing in front of the doctor. “I'm not moving until you tell me.”

Dr. Jones pushed her. Phoebe bumped into a filing cabinet. A box fell off the top and emptied it contents across the floor of the office. She couldn't believe her eyes. It was photo after photo of her fellow nurses in compromising positions. Often in very little clothes.

“You monster!”

She had never felt so warm. It was like she was on fire. She looked in the mirror on the wall. Somehow she was now in her River Fire costume.

“You will tell no one about this!” said Dr. Jones. “Or you will experience worse than Maggie just got.”

River Fire laughed. “That's what you think.”

“No! What is happening to you?”

“I'm your end.”

Dr. Jones pulled his arm back to strike.

River Fire grabbed him by the shirt. Suddenly flame engulfed him.

“Ahh!”

River Fire stepped away as he burnt to a crisp.   

Sixtieth Friday Flash: River Fire

River Fire by Irena Lazovska (Copyright 2012)

River Fire was tired, she sat on her haunches on the top of a tower in the middle of the city, her mobile police scanner scanning for trouble. Her shift at St. Trinity Hospital as a nurse had really taken it out of her, but she promised herself just one more hour of vigilance before calling it a night. She would most probably be the laughing stock of the hospital if they knew she did this. 

oOo

Tony was walking from work. It had been a long shift at the convenience store and he was looking forward to getting home and having a nice long shower. A shower to wash away all the mental and physical muck of the day.

“Give us your money, punk!” hissed a man in his late fifties. There were another four or five about the same age crowding around Tony.

“What is this? The geriatric gang?”

“Laugh it up bub and I will cut you,” the old man produced a large serrated steak knife.

“Take it easy! All I have is a credit card.”

“Alright, we're going to go draw some money.”

“You know what, screw you, I earned this money, go get your own.”

The man swiped away with the knife and sliced Tony's arm.

“Ouch! Okay, okay... there's an ATM down the street.”

After a few paces something red dropped in front of them. In the darkness of the night it was like a fiery angel descending from the heavens. She was all red Lycra, curves and a heart shaped face. Her red eyes gazed at them.

“Looks like the midnight entertainment has arrived boys,” said the man with a knife.

“In your dreams,” said the lady with a husky voice.

Tony didn't know whether to laugh. What was this? Amateur hour?

“Get out of the way dame, we got a payday coming our way.”

“Not tonight,” she said, moving in, punching and kicking one of the guys to the ground. The knife guy let go of Tony and went for the caped girl, Tony tried to stop but he was too slow, he sliced her across the midsection.

“No!”

“You fool,” shouted another of group. “We didn't sign up for this.”

“Run boys!” The old men hobbled and limped down the road.

Tony went over and gathered her in his arms. “Are you okay?”

“So much blood lost.”

“I would have been okay, you didn't have to risk your life like that.”

“It was my duty, just do me one favour.”

“Sure.”

“Make sure I don't go to St. Trinity Hospital?”

Tony found the request odd, but he would honour it.  

Fifty Third Friday Flash: Ghost Bus

Commuters by Rich Hinchcliffe

It was late, everything was closed, and there was no other way. He had to go home and face the consequences. Barry put his hand up for a taxi, the yellow vehicle shot past, seeming to totally ignore him.

“Damn it!”

He took out his phone, the bright screen danced in front of him and hurt his eyes. The taxi operator's number just rang and rang. Feeling a bit woozy he held onto the bus stop. A moment late a bus stopped in front of him and the doors opened. Barry hated taking the bus and waved his arms to tell the bus driver he wasn't interested. The bus didn't move.

“All right, all right!” he said stumbling forward making his way onto the bus. He dug into his pocket and dumped his change in the driver's general direction.

Dizzy, he sat down in the nearest open seat. The bus moved forward. For a few moments he sat there with his eyes closed lolling around in his seat. Opening his eyes to see if he recognized the area, he froze and his eyes grew large. All around him were shadowy shapes with bright eyes.

Barry shot up, fell, and crawled to the front, pulling on the sides of the seats. “What are you?”

The shapes ignored him, some looking out the window. Getting back onto his feet, he tried the door. It shook, but did not open.

“Driver! Let me out!”

Barry turned around, wanting to grab and shake the driver to his senses, but stopped midway when he saw the man was also a shadowy form with bright eyes.

“No! No! You can't do this. Let me out!”

Barry stared at all the passengers. Some were looking at him. As if wondering what the disturbance was. Then it all came flashing through his head. After his tenth shot of drink he had fallen off his chair. There was a blank spot and then he found himself outside.

“It can't be!” he said, he looked down at his hands. They were disappearing and a blinding light was filling his vision. A moment later his scream was cut off and all he was left with was his thoughts.

Fifty Second Friday Flash: The Mermaid and the Oil Baron

*** this is a follow up from Gorilla Pequeno,Santos Returns,Mermaid Tale Santos Vs. The Mermaid and Santos, The Mermaid, and the Marine Biologist

** On a side note it's my editor and friend Robyn Addinall's birthday today. So a big happy birthday to her and if you have the time please check out her blog Curious Robyn for reviews and other observations.** ( Robyn didn't edit this piece, so any mistakes you find are my own ;)

It took several days to reach the island by boat, funded by the documentary crew that filmed their every move. Santos had secured the deal under the condition that he would host the show. For the first few days the crew filmed the mermaid, trying to catch its amazing transformation, so far nothing. People reported seeing the person they loved the most, but to the camera and everyone else the mermaid looked the same. It eventually got to the point where Margie, marine biologist, had to ban the crew from getting too close to the mermaid.

Santos stood on the pier with the camera crew filming.

“We have finally arrived. Once everything is setup we will be releasing the mermaid into her new home. And what a lovely home it is,” said Santos twirling around. The sky was a rich blue, seagulls squawked in the distance.

“Good!” said the director.

“Thankfully the audience at home can’t smell,” said Santos holding his nose. His short stature wasn’t helping.

After the half an hour drive they reached the oil baron’s holiday resort. A 5 star hotel reserved for the rich and famous. A hotel he nor any of the crew would be staying in. There was said to be a three year waiting list.  They would be staying in Margie’s new home, a villa down the road supplied by the oil baron so Margie could be close in case of emergencies.

The tank was massive, a large circular glass tube that was five stories high. There was a hole connecting each floor. Each floor was themed and packed with things the mermaid could play with. Santos was uncertain if the mermaid would make use any of them, but at least it looked as if she would be well looked after. Over the last year or so he had gotten quite attached to the creature. She had even mellowed out under Margie’s good care.

They were right at the top ready to release the mermaid into the tank. The film crew were there, some celebrities were there, even Tom Arbuckle the oil baron himself was there. His million dollar smile dazzling.

“The time has come. A creature we thought was only confined to folklore. A creature that tells us that there is more to this world than we know. A creature we hope will be happy in her new home. Release her!” said Santos with a flamboyant wave of his arms.

The mermaid was released. Her red eyes darted side to side and then she swam around, exploring the level they were on, but then she stopped, and looked at them. Santos could feel some of the crowd were feeling uneasy, especially the sound man who didn’t seem to want to look at the creature. A moment later the mermaid vomited. The crowd gasped and a lot of whispers broke out.

“Did you get that?” asked the director.

The camera man nodded moving in closer.

“Margie!” said Tom, his voice grave. “She better not be sick!”

Margie moved closer and placed her hand on the tank. The mermaid wiping her mouth, placed her hand there too. “On the contrary, I think she’s pregnant...”

Tom rubbed his hands together. “Well, isn't that a turn of events!”

Santos wondered how this was even possible, but he was sure he was going to stick around to find out.

Fifty First Friday Flash: Gargoyle

Gargoyle_by_flumpo-456

It was getting colder. Hugh hugged his tattered clothes closer. He would have to go across town to the charity to get some new ones soon. The new clothes normally made him itch, but at least he would be a bit warmer.

Maybe he would be able to catch Jerry before he closed he would give him some of the left over food from the day. He decided to take a shortcut down a side street. It was a part of town that was getting refurbished. Old Victorian buildings restored to their former glory. There was resistance from the local gangs, graffiti and whatnot, but most of the places had private security now. Chasing the riffraff away if their patrols spotted them.

Looking up he swore he saw a pair of eyes glinting from atop one of the roofs. Most probably a stray cat.

He had even been chased away a couple of times. He went peacefully. He didn't want to cause trouble. But that night trouble found him. It was Margret the local pimp. A woman with huge arms.

“Hugh! You get your filthy ass away from here!”

“Just passing...”

“I only have a short window of opportunity here and I don't want you ruining it,” she said coming over and grabbing him by his shirt front.

“Get off! At least I don't sell mine like you do.”

She screeched, pushing him over. “You know nothing!”

“That was uncalled for,” he said trying to pull himself up.

“Girls, there's extra for you if teach this bum a lesson.”

On his knees, Hugh, slumped when he saw them coming, he could see the pain and sense of lose deep in their eyes, besides there was no way he was going to fight girls. Covering his face he let them rain down blows on him, hoping they would tire out. A viscous blow hit him in the ribs. He wouldn't be surprised if it was cracked.

All of sudden a shrill sound filled the air. A sound that made him tremble. Just what kind of drugs were these people taking? Covering his ears he opened his eyes and watched as Magret and her girls scattered.

Hugh felt a hand on his shoulder. He expected a security guard or the police, but when he looked all he saw was a pair of large yellow eyes staring at him. He backed away a bit. The eyes tilted side to side looking at him, seeming to be satisfied it pushed something wet and gooey into his hands. It made noises with its mouth.

“You want me to eat it?”

The eyes nodded up and down.

Hugh put the gooey thing up to his face. It seemed to be a fish of some kind. A raw one.

“Thanks,” said Hugh looking to where the eyes were, but they were gone. He heard what sounded like large wings flapping off into the night.

Hugh achingly got to his feet, and hobbled down the street. Maybe if he hurried Jerry would be able to cook the fish for him.  

50th Friday Flash: Tin Man TONY

Image source

*Was originally going to use this image I stumbled across, but I saw it was someone else's fictional character and didn't want it to look like fan fiction or step on anyone's toes.*

Fire. The smoke was thick and black, it trailed off into the night. I hugged my teddy bear close as I stood outside with my gran and watched the fire. Poor Mr. Finnegan. He most probably left his pipe burning.

I wanted to help with the bucket chain, but my gran held onto my hand tightly. I would catch a cold and we shouldn't be gawking, but I could see the fire reflected in her eyes. She enjoyed the spectacle. And like me I was sure she was excited about the prospect of them arriving.

We weren't disappointed. Moments later a fire wagon pulled up. There must have been about half a dozen Mecha Men hanging off of the sides.

“Look there's Tin Man Tony!” I said jumping up and down.

“Indeed it is.”

Tin Man Tony was just like the other Mecha Man except that he was painted in a bright red, and it said TONY across his boiler plate. We watched in wonder as they set to work putting out the fire. They were fast and fearless.

Tin Man Tony rushed into the blazing building as soon as the fire wagon had come to stand still. Moments later he emerged with a very frightened looking Ruffles. Mr. Finnegan's dog.

“Mr. Finnegan?” asked my gran.

Tin Man Tony shook his head.

“May he rest well,” she said shaking her head. “Poor old bugger.”

The tin man placed Ruffles on the floor. The dog came over and sat by me feet and looked up at me with sad eyes. I picked him up. He was old, heavy and stinky but I had always had a soft spot for him.

“Can we...”

My gran sighed. “Just until someone shows up to collect him... now inside with you!”

“Aw... okay...” I followed my gran inside. “When I grow up I wanna be just like Tony.”

“Well,” said my gran with a smile. “If you eat your Brussels sprouts like I tell you, you just might.”

Forty Ninth Friday Flash: Ticket Stub

Image Source

This week's story suggestions are from @andrevr (scalpel, ticket stub, running shoes, and the Karoo) You can find Andre's photography and other social media places here

It was a blistering hot day and the fact that she was tied up and had duct tape over her mouth wasn't helping. The crazed maniac was upstairs, she was dreading their return.

The psycho had somehow drugged her drink and taken her way, where, she wasn't sure. Things were still hazy.

Someone was coming down the stairs. Her eyes widened when she saw who it was. It wasn't a man, not a crazed fan like she had suspected, it was Gabriela Fontain the previous star of the show. Someone she had respected.

She knew the older woman had taken it hard, but this was ridiculous.

“Ah, the pretty little angel awakens.”

“Mmm mmm mmm!”

“Look!” she said picking up an album and walking over. Putting it on her lap, her captor paged through it, showing her photos of her previous shows. A used ticket stub plastered with each set of photos. “For seven years I was the star of that show. Hell, I was that show.”

Amy just nodded.

“Then you caught Gerard's eye,” she said putting the album down and whipping back around to look at Amy intensely in the eyes. “You're sleeping with him aren't you?”

She shook her head vigorously, he had tried, but she had pushed off his advances. She was focusing on her career and it was common knowledge that Gerard was a player.

“Lying little pig!”

“You see what he did to me?” she said pointing down at her legs. One was covered in a cast from the knee down. The other had a running shoe on it. “Pushed me over when I confronted him about you sleeping with him. He denied it, the bastard, but I know. Oh I how I know!”

Amy shook her head more vigorously.

“Calm down, it's almost over,” she said picking up a scalpel.

“MMM MMM MMM!”

“Don't worry, I'm not going to kill you, the birds and other wildlife out in the Karoo will take care of that, just going to make the outside reflect the inside.”

Tears rolled down Amy's cheeks. Her eyes widened and blinked rapidly as the blade come in closer.