Infinite discovery part 55

This fic is rated R

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"Molly, wake up!"

Molly woke with a start. Reflexive she peered into him. Before he could say anything she had discerned what the trouble was. She held up her hand to stop him.

"... Someone has planted evidence. They think it is a drug bust."

Chris swore. He got up mad as hell. "What can we do?"

Vince Vaan part 49

Sarganno caught up to Vince some time later.

"Where are you going?" He asked.

"Back to my uncle... I have something to do."

Sarganno looked indignant. "You were going to leave me back there with those ruffians?"

Vince looked at him and smirked, "Afraid of some big burly men huh?"

Sarganno sniffed angrily. "I'm coming with yah, come heck or high water. Your one of the few to treat me fairly."

Vince shrugged. "Suit yourself."

Infinite discovery part 54

This fic is rated R

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"What's going on?" Vince asked a nearby cop.

"Nevermind citizen, move along."

Vince watched helplessly as his friends and colleagues were rounded up and put into squad cars.

Vince Vaan part 48

Vince hardly turned his eyes when Barbara and her men approached. She came up and nodded to him. "Looks like he's come back eh?"

Vince said nothing. He kept on digging.

Barbara saddled up and took the bucket where he was flinging herbs. "I know you two haven't always gotten along, but it would do you good to get along now."

"He was mom and dad's favorite. I seemed to be the oddball between us."

"He's the firstborn. Sometimes that's how it is."

Vince simply looked to her. He knew this was his role, what he should do.

"I'm not much of a green thumb." Barbara admitted. "But I'll see what I can do."

Infinite Discovery part 53

This fic is rated R

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It had been a sweet night. Chris looked over at Molly. Seeing her fitfully asleep he got up off of his bed and grabbed his pants.

As he did something caught his eye. There was red and blue flashing lights hitting the blinds.

Chris got dressed hurriedly and ran outside.

Vince Vaan part 47

"I didn't know you had a brother. What's he like?" Marie asked intrigued.

Vince glowered but said nothing. He stared at the ground with a lining of hate written across his face.

"Something wrong?" Marie pursued.

Vince finally looked up to her. "No, nothing. Let' me help you with those, thank you."

Infinite discovery part 52

This fic is rated R.

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"Why didn't you want to go over there?" Matthew asked.

Barbara wrinkled her nose. "They are disgusting pigs. I never really wanted to work at that bar anyway, and being around them was horrible enough. Besides..."

Chris grinned.

Vince Vaan part 46

"Deer brother,

It has been a very long time. So I've heard you grew up to be a fine young man. Uncle Matthew writes to me weekly so I stay informed. It appears that you have helped him out a lot already. My congratulations on all that you have accomplished.

My book did well. I didn't know how it would end up but it eventually did do well. All my poems were great successes thankfully.

I'm writing to inform you that I will be heading your way soon. I suspect that I have made some enemies and there is a rumor that one plots to take my life. I would request your services as a body guard on route and while in the capital. I have already heard from Matthew and he accepts my proposal.

It will be good to hear from you again. I hope you are willing to take this up. I will be there in three days. Until then!

Infinite discovery part 51

This fic is rated R

To see where this blog came from originally check it out here

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"Hey Chris, me and the boys are having a party tonight. You and your girl are welcome to come."

I don't want to go Chris heard in his head. The way in which he received it told him she meant business. "Sorry Trent, but me and her would like some private time together."

Chris shrugged "Your loss."

Vince Vaan part 45

"Sarganno, how goes the roof?"

Several days had passed. From the outside looking up Vince noticed the entirety of the roof was now flat. Much of what had been was sawed off.

"I'm nearly there." He shouted down.

"Vince!"

He turned over his shoulder and there was Marie. She drove another wagon, this one filled with sheets and a mattress. "You live this close to water! You should bathe.

"I have a letter for you." Marie said. She picked it up and handed it to him. Curious, Vince opened it.

Vince Vaan part 44

Sarganno wondered what was going on. He listened but out in the darkness he could hear nothing.

Then he heard it.

"Dogs?" Sarganno whispered. Vince calmed down. He realized Sarganno was right.

"They might be tracking dogs!" Sarganno whispered loudly. Vince just looked at him.

"Yeah, what if they are? You don't hear any men outside do you?"

For the first time Vince gazed suspiciously at Sarganno. What was he hiding...

Vince Vaan part 43

"Sarganno, get down here now!"

The urgency in his voice told him something terrible was going down. He rushed down the stairs and hurried to Vince's side. "What's going on?"

"Shhh!" He warned.

Vince Vaan part 42

Toque showed up outside Vaan's door a week later looking sour faced. Clearly he had more pressing matters but agreed to out of obligation.

Vince looked him over and nodded. Toque clambered down. Together they carried out the plants wordlessly.

From the roof Sarganno watched them. He had nearly completed his duties as well.

Vince Vaan part 41

Toque sat down and began working the numbers on his time off. Without looking up he could sense her eyes on him.

"Milady, do you have a wish for companionship?"

His smug smile made her blanch. Marie sniffed the air and walked off, nose held high.

Toque chuckled and got back to work. It was then that Matt came to him.

Vince Vaan part 40

The runner came up puffing and wheezing. "Here you go sir. What will you be needing from our master?"

Vince flinched. "Your what?... Nevermind. Take these back to him."

The runner looked surprised, "You managed to grow some already?"

Vince grabbed his load in one hand and flipped it onto his back. "Yeah, I have my ways."

"Tell Matt to send a cart after a week. I'll have his first full batch by then. Go."

Nodding obediently the youth ran off.

Vince turned and walked inside. "Hey Sarganno, foods here."

Vince Vaan Part 39

"It's been a long time, we really aught to catch up."

It was the upstairs to the restaurant. Barbara sat look cross at Matt. "Yes, we should. You sent him on a mission like that with no back up?"

"How could I afford to send you ought there ill prepared? Would it really matter if I did? If a raging horde came I would lose two family."

Barbara put her foot down. "I'm going, and that's that. My cousin needs to be protected."

"I can't stop you." Matthew admitted.

Vince Vaan part 38

Out on the street Marie Ollon spied out Toque Wilson. She followed him, wondering when he was going to make his move. She knew him well; Toque was not a man to be the basic laborer despite how excellent some of his hidden crafts were. Oh no, he wouldn't succumb to the everyman life, he had to be something more; his life had to mean something beyond a basic laymen. That was Toque.

Dodging around corners and peering over fences Marie looked to see him at every second she could. After some time she realized exactly where he was going; to work.

Marie cursed her luck. She had to have missed out on his deal. Who would possibly loan him money?

The rain fell in stride. Marie decided to cut her losses and head back to her home.

Vince Vaan part 37

It is what I always remember it as. Vince thought to himself. It was like this then too. Perhaps a little too much so...

Vince plowed away at the ground, tilling it for what was to come. His new protege, Sarganno, was avidly doing his part in spades on the roof.

"Hey Vince!" He hollered down from the rooftop. Vince turned to look up his way. "When is your uncle going to send us some food?"

"In a few short days. Nevermind that, get to work!"

"Get to work he says." Sarganno said begrudgingly. "I wonder how he feels working on an empty stomach."

Vince Vaan part 36

Matt was as surprised as ever to see her. "Barbara! What in the world!"

For her part Barbara was pleased to see him. "Hello uncle. Good to see you again."

"You're hurt! And your men?"

Barbara sat down. "We could really use some medical assistance uncle. Anything you can provide for us?"

Matt turned to her men. "Get down to the hospital, tell them I sent you."

He then turned to his niece. "What in the world have you been doing? Fighting bears??"

Barbara had to laugh. "Ask Vince. He'll tell you."

Vince Vaan part 35

Toque was up to his usual business. He had made his way to a local bank and was peddling his "new business" routine once again.

"And for a meager thousand gold pieces you can help me start this up. Remember, I pay 100% on the lean so-"

"Enough." The loan officer slammed his hands down on his desk. "I've heard of you and your kind Wilson. Be gone, you'll get no money from us!"

Toque sundered out wondering if his luck had finally petered out. On his way back a man stopped him.

"I have a preposition for you..."

Vince Vaan part 34

The following day Barbara took the wounded up onto horseback. She knew their uncle would help them and Vince need not say anything. Except, "Barbara."

She turned to face him, nursing a cut wrist all the while.

"Thank you."

Barbara smiled and nodded. She picked up her blade and walked.

Vince Vaan part 33

"What's going on out there? Are we winning?"

Vince had commandeered the only window that gave vent to what was going on. He grinned back at Sarganno but said nothing.

"Oh come on man, how goes the battle?"

Vince finally spoke his piece "It's a hell of a show, too bad you can't see it."

Vince Vaan part 32

The battle raged, fierce and intense. One side was outnumbered two to one but fought like madmen. For a time no casualties came from either side. Then it looked as though the shorthanded were gaining the upper hand.

"Look at that Barbara, they's sides weakening."

"Look alive boys. The party's about to start."

Looking exhausted but grateful the last of the strong fighters finished off their opponents.

Then Barbara charged.

Vince Vaan Part 31

"They're fighting amongst themselves!" One of her troops said.

Barbara gave the order. "Man up everyone. We'll have to take down those who are left."

Vince pulled on her arm as she walked away. "You really think that's a good idea? You don't know how many could be out there."

Barbara grinned back at him. "I'm spoiling for a fight, and this takes care of them. You do what you must and I will too."

Vince Vaan Part 30

Tension hung on the air. The only sound that could be heard was the horses coming and Sarganno whimpering.

"hmm Awww. I'm too young to die, I'm to young to die!"

Vince nailed him over the head. "Shut up stupid!"

Barbara came up to the window. "What the..."

Vince was curious as ever and came to look himself.

Vince Vaan part 29

Barbara and Vince rounded the downstairs portion waking up her soldiers as they did so.

"Wake up you lazy bunch of oafs! The barbarians are back!"

"Sarganno! Wake up! Everyone grab your weapons!"

Tensely they waited. Steadily the horses drew near. Barbara's fighters were seasoned pros and stood ready.

"Steady, steady..."

Vince Vaan Part 28

Late at night Vince and Barbara sat atop the roof of their new house sipping out of a wine flask. Barbara looked up at the stars. She began to shake her head.

"Your twenty now. My god your a man already."

Vince chortled a bit. "Yeah, I've gotten bigger."

"I'll say...

"Hey Vince, do the ladies ever come around for yah?"

Vince swallowed his portion and looked to her. "Why do you ask?"

She snorted. "When I was your age, this was the last place I wanted to be. But maybe that's just me."

"Barbara... what is that?"

"What is... shit!"

Vince Vaan part 27

"So... she's your cousin?"

The red head jumped down and hugged Vince. "Yes. Meet Barbara Vaan. This is Sarganno."

"How do." She said curtly holding out her hand.

"So you still roam these parts?" Vince turned to her.

"Yes, me and the boys. What are you doing out here?"

"Ask uncle Matt." Was all Vince had to say. Barbara nodded a few times, her mouth puckering to one side.

"Just like him not to ask for our help." She said.

"Probably couldn't pay you." Vince said grinning. "Come on in, dinner's ready."

Vince Vaan part 26

"What the hell?" Sarganno muttered.

Vince put up his blade. He recognized those horns. "Relax." Was all he said.

Men on horseback road up, some of which he could clearly see from his window. A womans voice boomed loud through the air.

"Residents of the house come out now before we take the place by force!"

"What do we do?" Sarganno looked befuddled. "There are even more of them."

"Oblage her." Vince said smiling.

Vince Vaan Part 25

Vince held his blade point out at a window thinking for sure that would be the way they would come. He could see their grinning faces through the window. "What's the matter boy? Can't take a little pressure?"

Vince thought for a second. "I have an uncle who's powerful. If you spare me and move on I'll get him to give you whatever you want!"

The leader spat on the ground. "And I have an uncle too. He's got forty gold bars and fifty asses Ah-hahaha!"

His men laughed with him. One was about to chuck himself into the window when they heard it.

"Whazzat?" One of them said.

Listening intently they heard it again.

"Cagswallop. Let's get out of here!"

Vince Vaan part 24

He saw them coming long before they arrived.

"Sarg, get down here now!"

Sarganno came running, "What? What is it?"

"Barricade the doors! Marauders!"

Sarganno cursed but headed for the backdoor. Vince lifted the couch to the front.

A few moments passed and the sound of hooves came thundering up. Vince stood ready for anything.

"Ahoy in there! Got any food for some starving brothers?"

"We got nothing for yah, go away!"

"You here that boys?" The leader spat on the ground. "He doesn't have very many manners. Let's teach some to him."

Vince Vaan Part 23

"Here you go sir. Any requests?"

His uncle's worker dropped off food enough to last them until they made their own. Vince looked through the second bag and found all the necessary tools they needed.

"Sarganno."

He came forward out of the house toward them. Vince handed him the bag "Get to work making locks on the doors first."

"Right, hey what's for supper?"

Vince through him a pastry. "Keep the change."

Vince turned back to the servant. "Yeah, I could use a few things, namely..."

***

"Look boss, a house!"

"Well I'll be. Saddle up boys we getting ourselves a nice place to live."

His men gave a cheer.

Vince Vaan part 22

Vince awoke during the night. Flashes of his grandparents rolled through his mind...

He looked around. Sarganno was asleep in the corner. He hauled him roughly up by his collar.

"Huh, wha-"

"Your suppose to be on guard remember?"

"Oh yeah. I think it's your turn now." He said grinning.

Vince rolled his eyes. Just because they were in a house did not mean they were safe. Vince shouldered over to the couch he had been sleeping on and sat, taking his turn at guard duty.

Vince Vaan part 21

"... he said you would know what to do."

Matt nodded. Thank you Toque, your dismissed.

"Just a minute, your not going to call me to do this again are you?" Toque said before leaving.

"If I feel that your needed for the job." Came the reply.

Toque soured at the prospect but said nothing. He did have a debt to pay.

"Oh, and Toque."

Toque stopped at the door.

"Tell the prep cook to come up when his shift is finished. I'll need him to deliver the next load."

Vince Vaan part 20

Toque soldiered up to the shabby looking house cautiously. When Vince emerged some time later he sighed a breath of relief.

"Ah, Toque, right on time."

Toque looked at him incredulously. "You mean you knew he was going to send me on this dangerous mission?"

"Not you necessarily, but I knew someone was."

"Here's your food. Got anything for me?" Toque threw down the pack full of seven days of food.

"Yeah, tell my uncle I've acquired skilled help. He'll know what to do."

Vince Vaan part 19

Toque cursed his luck. " 'Want to keep your job?' He says. 'Then you'd better do it.' Like I'm any kind of survivalist. I might owe this kid some money but risking my life? I must be crazy."

Toque rummaged through the underbrush weary of anything and anything that might be coming. He willfully wanted to come via night so that whatever wanted to ambush him was asleep.

"He'd better be there, that's about all I can say."

Vince Vaan part 18

"So let me get this straight." Sarganno said. "You want to make a flat top roof so you can harvest tea up there?"

"Yes." Vince didn't mince words.

Sarganno tilted his head in a sideways nod, looking to the ceiling. "Well, that'll be a hell of a job. It'll take me a month give or take working alone."

"Just do it." Vince said.

"Hey. Hey!" Sarganno wasn't about to let him go that easily. "You said there'd be food. Well where's the food?"

Vince patted his knapsack. "Right here, just got to grow it."

Sarganno looked him through and through. Vince's smile widened. If only he knew what I know. Vince thought.

Vince Vaan part 17

"Can I take your order?"

Marie couldn't believe herself. Being a waitress was a young woman's vocation and here she was taking orders and getting tips.

"Thank, it will be right out shortly."

Marie moved to the kitchen window and met Toque's gaze for the first time. "Well well well, if it isn't Marie Ollon. A little old to be doing this line of work eh?"

Marie gave him a short glare and pieced off a pie. She didn't bother responding to him as she walked off.

Vince Vaan part 16

"Whew, this place stinks!"

Sarganno had a knack for stating the obvious. Vince was finding this out more and more.

"Start cleaning."

"What?"

Sarganno was beside himself. "We're going to be living here. Start cleaning."

"Hey, wait a minute. I'm a man, we don't clean."

Vince just looked at him.

"Look, I'm a builder. Give me something to build and I'll do it for you."

Vince rolled his eyes. Then an idea formed in his mind. "Can you reshape the roof?"

Sarganno looked at the structure. "Yeah, probably. Why?"

"I have a plan..."

Vince Vaan part 15

Vince was in luck. The farm that was on his uncle's map was intact. Whoever had built it moved on long ago.

"Wait here." He told Sarganno.

Just because the original occupants had moved on didn't mean that the place was empty. Blade in hand, he slowly moved up to the side of the building. Listening close, he heard nothing. Vince moved along the side of the wall. Upon reaching the entrance he slowly turned the nob. The house was old and in need of repair. Vince opened the door and made his way inside.

It looked to be empty at first. No one came out to see him and no noise could be heard. Then he heard it; snoring. Moving from what must have been the livingroom to a bedroom he looked in. A huge bald man nearly seven feet tall slept uncovered snoring loudly. It was the work of a moment for Vince. His blade across the man's throat, he woke him.

"Son-of-a-bitch!" He cursed.

"Get out, now." Vince said.

"You don't have any right to this property." His anger was palpable.

"Neither do you, I wager. And I'm the one holding the blade. Now get out."

Vince Vaan part 14

Matthew looked them over and nodded. "My nephew says you owe him a debt. You can repay it here. How much do you owe him?"

Toque gave a modest amount. So modest, in fact, that Marie snorted. "You wish." She told him. She then gave a fair amount.

"Hrumph." Toque crossed his arms and looked away. Matt looked from one to the other. "Is what she says true?"

Toque slowly turned his head around. He sighed. "I suppose it was a bit more than I recollected."

"Fine, you can pay off the debt here. I'll give you half and save half for him."

"Hrmph! You expect me to pay all that back in such a fashion! It will take years! And how am I to live on half pay?"

"Would you rather he not pay your debts at all?"

That stopped Toque in his place. He said nothing.

"Now you milady." Matt turned to Marie. "If you are in need of work I can offer it to you."

Marie looked surprised. "What? Me? Oh no, I couldn't possibly."

Matt grinned, despite himself.

Vince Vaan part 13

Vince woke with a start. He was a day out from Terra Maw and already someone - or something - found him.

He didn't dare move. From his hiding place he looked to see just how many there were. To his astonished surprise there appeared to be only one. He was small and looked to be helpless. He lavishly went to work on Vince's food supply. Vince waited a moment to see if more were coming. When none did he made his move.

"AAAAHH-"

"Shut your mouth!" Vince whispered. Vince clasped his hand over the would-be food thief's mouth. In vain the little man talked non-stop through the hand though nothing intelligible came through.

"What?" Vince said, removing his hand.

"What I said was I didn't mean no harm! Honest! I was hungry! I haven't eaten for days! Well, at least it doesn't feel like I've eaten for days. Now that I think about it it might have been -"

"Quiet." Vince said sharply. The thief's rapid fire mouth took a rest. "What's your name?"

"Sarganno sir."

"Well then, Sarganno. You want to earn yourself some food?"

Slowly, dumbly he nodded.

"Good. Follow me."

Vince Vaan part 12

Vince headed out through the forest. His old weapon Kazai was strapped to his back. His mission was simple, as his uncle put it;

"Tea has become a luxury item these days Vince. I can make a killing with how much some of these nobles want to pay for it. The problem lies in the price - these overseas traders charge astronomical prices for the leaves. I need these plants to restore this place to what it once was. If you can get me a steady supply of these plants I'll pay you handsomely."

Vince was more than willing to help out a family member. The problem was in the details. Lands were free beyond the city limits but they were not protect by the law. Thus, they were known as the lawless lands; free to the taking, but woe to anyone who was powerless.

Vince was a fighter, he would make it work one way or another.

Vince Vaan part 11

"Step aside boys, let me show you how it's done."

Even Marie looked on in astonishment as the would-be marketeer showed off his fine chef mechanics.

"What-ho, hahaha. Look alive boys I got this one in the bag!"

Knives chopped, patties flipped and burner's raged. One might even think his regular profession WAS cooking.

Marie shook her head. He was born for this, or so it seemed.

---

Upstairs Matthew looked down on his nephew behind his desk. He threw him a map of the area.

"That's where I'd like you to begin."

Vince looked it over carefully. "By the water? Good. Will I be given help?"

Matt blew smoke into the air. "Sorry, but I can't afford it. Your on your own Vince."

Vince Vaan Part 10

Vince dismounted from the carriage. Terra Maw sprawled before him. In the hustle and bustle of the port town much escaped the notice of the local law. Thieves and most lower criminals, however, were usually found and caught. Bigger crooks... well, they were another story.

It was here that his uncle had made a decent living, an honest living for the most part. The recession had hit and his restaurant was in trouble. Thus the reason he called on family for help.

Toque Wilson and Marie Ollon dismounted behind him. It was time to get started. He nodded briefly before setting off.

Vince Vaan part 9

Vince could see that Toque had fallen asleep. Marie had laid her head down on his shoulder and was soon drifting off. He thought she had gone until she stirred.

"He's yours now you know."

Vince looked down on her. Some of her age showed, but not much. She looked from him to Toque again. "He's a dog but a loyal dog. He'll follow you where you need him to go."

Vince nodded slowly taking his eyes off her at a tangent.

"So you want to explain what kind of work your Uncle wants out of you?"

He turned to her again. He waited a moment before responding. "Uncle owns a restaurant. He needs a good farmer to get crops from."

"That's it, just farming?" She said surprised. Vince shook his head. "Where I'm going, nothing is easy..."

Vince Vaan part 8

The ride was taking longer than he imagined. Outside the dreary window the night showed it's first signs of rain. Antelope and dear came to and from, going on with nary a care in the world. Off in the distance a fish jumped in the lake. A flock of geese took off and flew south. Winter was coming.

Vince looked on with stoic bliss.

Vince Vaan part 7

"Here you go boss. He's agreed to take us on the cheap."

Vince turned to Marie. "Are you coming as well?"

Marie shrugged. "I suppose."

Vince turned to the driver. "She's coming with us."

"That'll be extra."

Vince handed him a set amount. The driver quietly accepted it gratefully. All three got on board and they were off at a brisk pace.

Marie was curious. "Say, what was in the letter that your uncle sent you?"

"He needs something. A different kind of labor..."

Vince Vaan Part 6

Vince stepped outside and confronted the small crowd silently. "We know Vince is in there." They said. "We want him. He owes us."

"How much?" Vince said. This jolted the crowd and for a moment they were silent.

Toque waited nervously. Marie rolled her eyes at him. "What kind of man are you?"

"A smart one." He replied. "Investors do not like their money being taken from them. I think I'll escape out the back."

Before he ever could Vince came back through the door. Toque looked out the window to the departing crowd. "I owe you a great deal young one. Want can I do for you?"

Vince glanced his way. He then said calmly "Let's go."

Marie was shocked. "You'd pay his debts for him?" Vince would only look at her. He carried on. Marie was impressed. He wasn't nearly the brigand Toque was.

Vince Vaan part 5

Toque was beside himself. "That's all you got for your home? Pish tish. I could have gotten you far more."

"It'll do nicely for what I plan to use it for."

Marie wasn't sure of any of this but something about him, there was something...

She rose from his former table "I'm going with you."

He stopped and stared a moment "That is, if you'll have me."

"Certainly, if your willing to come. Toque?"

"But of course me lad... I'm not very well liked here."

Marie snorted, "You can say that again."

"Toque Wilson, we know your there. Come out now!"

Vince Vaan part 4

Vince pored over the letter. It was from his distant family. He knew what he must do.

"I ain't what I used to be. That run sure took it out of me." Toque commented.

"You can say that again." Marie said, looking down at Toque's gut.

Vince materialized out of a side room.

Toque slammed his fist down on the table. "I must say I thank you boy. You've shown me more hospitality than anyone I've ever seen."

"Not that it's any of our business but what's in the letter?" Marie nodded at it.

"It's from my family... I must go." Was all he said

Toque nodded several times. "So your related to old Tarvish? Shoulda known, you got his build.

"All right lad I'll come with you. I need to collect after all."

"This a long visit I take it?" Marie asked.

"It is. I'm selling my home."

Vince Vaan part 3

"Work stacking duties complete. Anything else you need ma'am?"

She giggled a little but shook her head. She passed the five copper coins due him. "Give the innkeeper my regards." He said before taking off.

He was tall, about as tall an any other man worth his grain. He might have been confused for an orc had his skin been green. His arms held the same strength as any of the bigger men. His sleek black hair went behind him, short as ever. He was unshaven but still garnered a few looks from the ladies - and he knew it.

"See you all tomorrow." He gestured to the waitresses. He gave a last longing look at the brew on the wall and knew it was just one more year.

The walk home went uneventful. He passed by a few people he knew but was tired enough that he didn't bother to stop and chat. As he walked in the front door where he lived he didn't realize two pairs of eyes were viewing him.

"That must be him." Toques said.

"You sure, that big feller?" Marie said

"He matches the description." Toque said. "Let's hope he doesn't get in too late."

Vince Vaan part 2

"He's over there!"

"After him!"

Toque held his breath at the side of the road. Above him he could hear the thundering of footsteps as a veritable mountain of men, and more gathering to the debtor collection, "gained" on him. He exhaled as all of them turned down the wrong path and ran headlong to collect. Toque turned to watch them go. He nearly jumped out of his skin as a hand came down on his shoulder.

"Toque Wilson, my God, I thought I'd never seen your face around here again."

She was sleek, slender. She had a form most women craved. An oval shaped face matched almond eyes and the dark brown shoulder-length hair marked her. Toque gazed on a familiar face but knew the deadliness behind it.

"Marie Ollon, so good to make your acquaintance milady." He took her hand and kissed it. "Time hasn't withered you at all."

"Spare me the pleasentries Toque. If you came back here I know for a fact that it's something big. You have more creditors in this town than hairs on your head."

"Ah, very true, very true. But, I owe others more, and I must pay my debts one way or another.

"Do you know of a Vaan? A Vince Vaan?"

"Hmm, can't say that I do."

Toque pulled a letter out of his pocket. "With this I pay off a great debt so I agreed. I must find this Vince before nightfall."

Vince Vaan

"All right, that'll be five gold coins."

Toque Wilson scoffed at the man. "What? Why we haven't even traveled a day! I'll not pay you but three."

The driver eyed him steadily. Toque, completely unbeknown to this hand him three gold coins and 4 silver ones. "Silvers for the tip." And he winked.

The driver put the coins aside and yelled at the man. "See if I help you again Toque!"

Toque shrugged his shoulders. "Just can't please some men. Three gold is more than enough for that travel.

"Right. I got to find him. Once I deliver my letter it will be done."

"Toque Wilson."

At the mention of his name Toque turned around. What could pass as a banker and a pair of thugs greeted him. "You owe me Toque. Pay up!"

"Ah yes, ha ha! I have the coins right here."

Toque reached down into the bag at his waste.

"Quit playing games Toque, you know as well as I do what you couldn't possibly-AHH."

Toque whirled dust in their eyes. With the momentum he sprang lustily into a run.

Pups

In my youth I raised a few pups such as these. I thought they might enlighten your day. Enjoy :)

Roots Part six

Laurisa Laurel Maxeen glided her way out onto the dance floor. The few men she gently pushed aside gaped over their shoulders. At 20 years she was at the top of her game and never looked back. Her past was dead, long live the queen!

Or so she thought.

His little brother came through the crowd. She was unaware of him at first as he seemed to be just another guy in the crowd. Slowly he made his way over to her. She used her usual ploy.

"Yes?" She said.

"You don't remember me do you?"

She shook her head. He offered his hand. "Jared. Jared Jackson."

Her face went from one of peculiarity to downcast. Her eyes turned from him and once again she was 16 years old.

"I found this. Apparently he had it addressed to you." He offered a note.

Laurisa took it and read to herself. Her regret turning in her direly as she began to cry.

Laurisa, I know I wasn't what you wanted, but you always meant the most to me. I remember how we used to take long walks together, stay out late behind your parents back and how you squeeled on the back of my moped. When I offered you my own home made ice cream you squeaked as it chilled your tongue. When we went swimming and I lost my bathing suit you respectfully looked away as I retrieved it. But most of all I remember those kisses you always liked to give me, those butterfly kisses.

I love you Laurisa. And if I'm not the one you want, so be it. But I hope you find someone who loves you as much as you love them. With love Laurisa,

Randal

Roots part five

Oh did she cry.

At first she was numb. The feeling hadn't entirely hit her when she was told. Then slowly it crept onto her. He was never coming back.

Her parents did their best to comfort her. Her little brother offered to do her chores for a month. Through it all she didn't say a word. At the end of the day she pulled from her purse a single photograph of them together, taken four years ago.

How long it had been.

Roots Part four

He exited quietly out the back. She let him go and obviously didn't care for him anymore.

He sighed and reached for his car keys. The ride home was mostly uneventful. His thoughts roamed, from her to the car to his new job as a janitor at the gym. He reached down to turn the radio dial and never saw it coming.

At sixteen years of age Randal Jackson was killed by a drunk driver.

Roots Part three

Sixteen years old. That had a nice ring to it.

Her parents had begrudgingly allowed her to go to a club for the first time in her life. Together with her friends they made the night something to remember.

"Having fun?" Her friend shouted over the raucous music.

"Oh yeah!" She yelled back. More than a few guys were looking her way from across the club. Her elation folded as one in particular caught her eye. Hurriedly she turned her attention back to their table.

"Hey, isn't that?..." One of her friends pointed.

"Nevermind." Laura said, her evening almost ruined by the mere sight of him.

"Looks like he's leaving. Poor guy." One other friend said. Laura shot her a look.

"Aw nevermind him, let's have fun!" Her best friend shouted.

Laura sighed and went out to the dance floor. Slowly, she felt better.

Roots Part two

"Laurisa? Come on, your going to be late for school!"

"Hang on mom, I'm coming."

When she was twelve Laurisa had her first inklings of what womanhood was. She boarded the bus on the way to school. Soon her life would change, what some might call for the better. Others... well, they had a more cynical.

Tom Masters was in her same grade. He had the dark hair and green eyes that marked him ever since. She became is his only desire, her first inklings of love.

"Hey Laura."

She had been daydreaming again, as usual. When she looked up she was surprised to see him there, waving to her. Stupidly she stared open mouth and immediately regretted it afterward.

First hour came and passed. When she opened her locker she found a hand written note in it. Meet me under the bleachers was all it said. Her heart pounded in her chest; could this be?

After school she made her way out to the football diamond. He was waiting there shivering.

"Hey."

"Hey, did you want something?"

"Can I walk you home?" He asked

Her smile was warm "Sure."

"Thanks. It kind of beats a study session with Mr Anderson." and he rolled his eyes.

She gave him of her best smiles. Things were looking up.

Roots Part one

She was stone cold, moved about the floor like she knew. Men were aware the moment she stepped into the room. In her own right she had done it her own way. She was queen bee, and she knew it.

Laurisa Laurel Maxeen glided her way out onto the dance floor. The few men she gently pushed aside gaped over their shoulders. At 20 years she was at the top of her game and never looked back. Her past was dead, long live the queen!

Life was never quite so easy however...

Wow, guess I was wrong

This thing really did went to crap. Oh well, I tried my best. I will try to do more with it later, but no guarantees. You know me :P

Very sorry everyone

This blog has been neglected the past few weeks and it will not any longer. Starting next week expect some blog posts.

Livin Part one

Authors comment; I know this story is boring now but give it time. It will get better :).

“Dad, dad look! We have new neighbors!” Joey was practically jumping up and down in his seat.
Lillian Goth, his mother, came to see for herself. “By Jorge they are. We have some new neighbors down the road Mortimer.”
“How swell.” He called from above.
Lillian moved so that she could see her husband. “Well? Shouldn’t we go to see them?”
“They’re just moving in dear, give it time. I’m sure in a day or two they’ll be around.”
Lillian had but to come to the top of the stairs and stare at him. Mortimer sighed heavily. “Must we? We have for everyone else; the hoths, the youngs, even the hombers and they didn’t last a week!”
“All the more reason we should welcome these new neighbors dear.” Lillian retorted. “We want the best of them to stick around for our little Joey don’t we?”
Mortimer regarded her for a second. “We won’t get to know them with just one meeting.”
Lillian sat down on the bed behind him. “No, but we can learn a great deal about someone over time, if you start early enough.”
“Oh can we daddy, please?” Joey was practically begging. Mortimer sighed again.
“Oh very well. But I want to see your homework before we go. And no funny business about leaving out a page or two of your workbook - I’ve got your teachers numbers if I need to!”

“Ok, you coming Tom? And heave!”
“Ben you guys got that?”
“Yeah we’re pretty set… ungh!”
Dave moved past them. He grabbed a box that he deemed his treasure. He made it into the house before Ben gave him the evil eye. “What’s that?”
Dave had a knowing smile on his face. He’d been here a million times; he knew what was coming. “The XPG. State-of-the-art and worth every penny. It can play the best of them at the best performance speeds. It‘s the most beautiful thing without wheels or hair.”
Ben was abashed. “Do you know how much those things cost?”
“Yes, actually I do; I paid for it myself.”
Ben slapped his hand to his face.
“Hey, where do you want this stuff?”
He peeled off the hand covering his face to help direct the movers. After everything was said and done Ben noticed the price on the top of the computer box. “That much, you paid that much for a computer?”
“Yeah, it’s a real steal. Normally that desktop can go for twice that.” Dave never missed a beat. He sat in front of their only tv inhaling popcorn with Tom.
Ben bit his tongue, sensing he could go no further. “Well anyway we need to find jobs and quickly. These places don’t pay for themselves you know.”
Ding-dong.
“Ben be a dear and get that for us would you darling?” Dave’s accent would not go un-wasted.
Amidst bad humor Ben opened the door.
“Hello, we’re your new neighbors. May we come in?”
Ben was taken aback “Uh, certainly.”

Posting schedule

The following is the posting schedule for varied stories beginning in June.

1st of the month - "Livin"

Mondays - "The Arduous Way"

Postings will be at midnight eastern standard time, give or take 10 minutes.

Decision coming soon

A decision on my writing schedule will be decided upon sometime soon, probably in the next week. Watch for it.

New stories coming soon

For those of you who remember "The Arduous Way" and various other works of my own expect to see them here in the near future. This will be an all-in-one inclusion to my online works. From Sci-fi to fantasy, whatever strikes my fancy will be posted here. Eventually I will work out a schedule for my updates and they will NOT be at random.

Welcome to my world.