“You must go to the other side of the world to the King’s Quarters, the place Ptolemy conquered, and the place of wonder carved into the cliffs.” “How helpful,” he said sardonically. Stratha began to speak again, but Barnabus had already turned to the leave. Her words trailed off as the door closed on them.... Continue Reading →
In Pursuit of Salvation, Part One
“I warned you.” Hamish’s voice was soft, lacking in accusations. He knew the situation was beyond the bear’s ability to foresee. He and Barnabus stood over Montrose’s comatose body, the sounds of the cafe drifting up through the floor. They stared at their friend, willing him to awaken, but nothing could rouse him. Every attempt... Continue Reading →
Voices Within, complete rough draft
He chose the blue paint. The color reminded him of their trip to the ocean. It wasn’t the vivid blue he expected, certainly not like that in the books he grew up with. But, on the one day of clear weather, the sky was brilliant with shades of blue mixed with whites and greys, contrasting... Continue Reading →
Illusions of Sanity, part nine
Marley’s fur stood up and a shiver went down her body. It was so slight that no one noticed but Barnabus and Montrose. The former from holding her hand and the latter because he was watching them carefully. A sound caused all six bears to focus on the clearing ahead of them. It was the... Continue Reading →
Illusions of Sanity, part eight
She looked him up and down, noting the tatters of his clothing. His main sword, the Rook, was gripped loosely. His face was tight and uncertain. There was also a dignified bear standing just behind him. Barnabus looked from face to face, acknowledging each in turn. Ambrose was chilly, Sonny’s nostrils flared, and Latricia, loyal... Continue Reading →
Illusions of Sanity, part seven
Lost in thought, it was some time before any of the bears spoke. It was Sonny who finally broke the silence. “I should not have said that I had fought a bogey,” he said softly. “This is far worse than I could have imagined.” He went silent again and Latricia took his hand. Eventually Marley... Continue Reading →
Voices Within, part six
A commotion outside caught their attention. The windows distorted the outside world, but several shapes were visible. The large display window suddenly cracked from an impact, causing those inside to step back, but, as quickly as they’d come, the figures were gone. The woman continued to cradle Uri in her arms. He had begun to... Continue Reading →
Illusions of Sanity, Part One (rough draft)
There was a soft breeze that caused chimes to tinkle, just enough to be audible. Much louder were the dogs barking through the night at nothing but shadows and slight sounds. These and other noises drifted through the pale light of the moon. It wasn’t quite enough light to see by, yet just enough to... Continue Reading →
