#IWSG - May

Yikes, y'all.. It's IWSG Wednesday again!

I'm still recovering from the A-Z April Blogging Challenge. I did a day-by-day interactive fiction adventure. It was super fun, but kind-of exhausting. If you want to check it out, start at The Letter A. :)

The only thing really to report is A-Z and that I think I'm ready to dive back into my novel. My writing group did an amazing review of the first half back in February, so my plan is to get into their suggestions and make some fixes this week, and start writing the second half next week. After writing group last night I was raring to get back into it... but as soon as I got home I passed out lol ..better luck tonight!

If I get into grad school, the plan is to have the novel finished by the time classes start in August. Just to make it so that novel is not hanging over my head by then. It's a totally do'able goal! The first 40k words are already written, and it will probably only take another 50-60k to finish. So that's only 20k words/month. Easy peasy, right? Right.

How are y'all doing? For those of you who participated in A-Z, what are you doing to recover?

#AtoZChallenge - duel the liZard King!

Ohmygosh Z! Here we are!

For those who are here for the first time, this was an interactive fiction adventure. I wrote a scene every day in the month of April, and my visitors voted for where they wanted the story to go next, by leaving a comment on the post. You can start from the beginning here.

Z:
"En guarde!" Sir Andrew shouted. He stole a quick glance around him and noted that the battle had completely halted. All eyes were on him and the Lizard King. He noted that Giraffe, Gorilla, and Horse all waited on the ground below. In the courtyard, a couple badly injured squirrels used the distraction to steal away while the dinosaurs' eyes were averted.
The Lizard King slowly drew his sword, his eyes swiveling to take in the scene, just as Andy just had. The two serpents corralled the Queen back, giving Andy and his quarry just enough space to duel.
The King struck first. His blade flashed toward Sir Andrew in a rather straightforward lunge, easily dodged. No sooner had he finished the first lunge, but he threw himself into another, trying to catch Sir Andrew off-guard. But the knight had expected as much and parried in an almost poetic manner. Sir Andrew decided it was time to make his own go of it. He executed a perfect swoop upward with his blade, but unfortunately the King blocked it with his own steel, and smashed Andy's hand against the rampart. The top brick, against which he was pinned, teetered, but did not quite fall off. Andy stomped on one of the King's long claws, which caused him to hop comically on one foot.
Sir Andrew took the opportunity and lashed out with his rope! He lassoed the King's sword hand and jerked it, causing the sword to fly off into the courtyard. The crowd below gasped as the sword landed, point-down, with a clang. It narrowly missed the Brontosaurus's tail, though Sir Andrew did not have the attention to spare to notice.
Because the King had, almost immediately, pulled back on the rope and jerked Sir Andrew toward him. He caught Sir Andrew in his other hand and was attempting to wrench the knight's sword from his grasp when he suddenly HOWLED in pain.
He released Andy and looked down to see that the Queen had got loose and chomped into his leg. She was tearing into it viciously. Sir Andrew seized his chance! He leapt out, and swung around the Lizard's body, using the same mechanics he'd learned while swinging from balconies earlier. He wrapped the rope around the distracted and bleeding King. The Queen had brought the giant lizard to his knees, and Andy finished the job of tethering him.
A great cheer went up from the mammalian crowd.
The lizard army made a variety of hissing, rumbling, and roaring sounds of disapproval, but did not move to assist their King. He was well and truly trussed, and had lost the fight.
Just then, a voice rumbled through the sky - "Annndddyyyyy .. time for dinnner..!" and Andy knew his time in the battle had come to a close. He assisted the Queen in climbing onto the staircase that led down Giraffe's neck and sighed in relief as she stepped regally down into Gorilla's hands.
Sir Andrew followed her toward his army, and was startled to notice that his stomach rumbled just as he stepped next to Gorilla.
"That was some fine work, Sir!" Gorilla rumbled, "You could have taken a little longer though. Things were just getting interesting out here!"
"You'll have to tell me all about it sometime, my friend. For now, I must answer the call of the gods, and find myself some dinner." Sir Andrew bowed to his Queen, who nodded her thanks to him.
He removed his cape, and was instantly transported back to the land of Bedroom. Andy's mom was waiting in the doorway, with a raised eyebrow and an amused grin. "Tough day?"
"Oh, you know, just playing!" Andy said. "What's for dinner?"

THE END.

Thanks for reading along, everyone! I hope you enjoyed the adventure as much as I enjoyed writing it for you :) Happy Z Day! Now go get some rest!

If you enjoyed the story this month, and haven't already, I encourage you to sign up for my email list! New subscribers get a FREE copy of a choose-your-own-adventure style ebook novella called Percy's Armageddon: Pick Your Plot Prequel. I promise not to email too frequently, and to send out fun stuff once in a while!

#AtoZChallenge - Yonder wall!

Only two more posts! Happy, sad, happy, sad.
Sorry for the super-late post - should have written before work. But, I won't count votes till noon tomorrow, to give folks a chance to get here.
You know what I'm looking forward to for my A-Z Reflections post on May 9 this year? Pre-writing and scheduling! lol The daily writing has been fun and is a great habit that I'm aiming to continue after the Challenge, but y'all.. it'll also be great to get back to regularly pre-scheduled posts :)
Anyway, lessee what happens at Yonder wall, shall we?

For those who are here for the first time, this is an interactive fiction adventure. I will write a scene every day, and my visitors will vote for where they want the story to go next, by leaving a comment on the post. You can start from the beginning here.

Y:
"Squirrel, I need you to scamper over to the rampart, just like you did to get here. Tell Gorilla to meet us on the other side of the wall. Go!" Squirrel gave another full-body salute and disappeared down the exterior of the castle.
"My Queen," Sir Andrew said, "do you trust me?"
"A Queen must be careful who she trusts, Sir Andrew. But if trusting you ensures my release from the grasp of these villains, then yes. For this task, I trust you."
Thankfully, the Queen was very small. And so Sir Andrew was able to tuck her just inside his shirt, with her tiny head peeking out from his collar. He unfurled his trusty rope and snagged the railing of the next balcony over. With a "whoop!" he lept out of the Queen's window. They flung themselves along the castle wall. The railing held as a mostly-steady fulcrum, cracking only a bit just as they reached the rampart. Andy felt a thrill as his cape flowed out behind him. He landed soundly on the rampart, and with a smart crack of his wrist, rescued his whip from the railing.
"I think, Sir Andrew, I should leave the flying to the birds. Please let me out!" the Queen said. Her voice was, in an imperial way, much larger than her small body, and Sir Andrew knew he must obey.
Sir Andrew placed the Queen on the cobbles and said, "My Queen, you are not safe yet. We must find Gorilla and return you to your mammal subjects."
Andy was shocked as the Queen suddenly looked behind him and barked furiously. Her terror sounded in her yips, which were not nearly so imperious as her earlier order to Andy. Sir Andrew looked back, and immediately swooped the Queen back into his arms. Who should be there, but none other than the Lizard King!
Dressed in full armor, Andy could see the Lizard King keeping one eye on the Queen, and another down to the outside of the wall.
"Your Gorilla awaits, human boy. But I'm afraid the Queen will remain with me."
"No! I've come this far! I will rescue my Queen!"
"Well then, shall we have... a duel? The winner keeps his life, and the Queen." The Lizard King shifted proudly, revealing the sword at his side.
Sir Andrew set the Queen gently down next to him. She gave him an approving nod, and Sir Andrew looked at the Lizard and shouted, "En guarde!"

Tune in tomorrow for our closing chapter - the duel with the LiZard King!

No voting today. You all deserve a rest for making it this far :) What do you think will happen during the duel? How was your A-Z?
___________________________________________________________________
If you like what you see, sign up for my email list! New subscribers get a FREE copy of a choose-your-own-adventure style ebook novella called Percy's Armageddon: Pick Your Plot Prequel!

#AtoZChallenge - run eXtra fast!

Ouch. Only one vote last night. Getting close to the end of the Challenge :) Comments always peter out a bit at this point. Still, three more bits of story, so let's see what happens!

For those who are here for the first time, this is an interactive fiction adventure. I will write a scene every day, and my visitors will vote for where they want the story to go next, by leaving a comment on the post. You can start from the beginning here.

X:
Sir Andrew ducked against the wall just outside the door to the Turtle's quarters. "Squirrel, I need you to be a distraction for me. Run over to the corner by the vegetables, and make Turtle look at you. Join me after I get through the door on the other side. Got it?"
The Squirrel gave a squeak of consent. He gave a full-body salute that included his bushy tail, and darted off into the room. Within moments Andy heard the Turtle rumble as Squirrel caught his attention, and took that as his cue to dart into the room.

The Queen (right) and friends.

Sir Andrew ran as fast as he could, along the left side of the room and over to the tapestried wall. Just as he'd thought, there was a door hidden behind a slit in the artwork. The sound of the Squirrel's distracting chattering disappeared as Andy made it through, and found himself in a room even more beautifully decorated than the first. Gold leafing adorned the ceiling and the sill around the window. The floor was covered in rich pillows, and pacing in front of the window was none other than Queen Eileen.
Sir Andrew dropped to his knee, splaying his cape out behind him in what he hoped was a sufficiently knightly manner. He bowed and said, "My Queen."
Queen Eileen turned to Andrew, her blue sapphire collar glinting in the sunlight. She walked toward him and said, "Stand, Sir Andrew. We must get me out of here. The carnage of the battle is terrible." Andrew stood and went to the window to look. The T-Rex was still tossing over any small creatures that attempted to get past, and he could see that the reptiles were now employing the Giraffe's tactic of allowing smaller creatures to run up the Brontosaurus's long neck to reach the rampart. Small furred creatures littered the courtyard and were being dragged away by the smallest denizens of the castle.
Just then Squirrel ran in and said, "The Turtle - he can fit through this door! We must go now!"
"What is your plan for escape, Sir Andrew?"
"We will send the Squirrel out to let Gorilla know to wait for us, and then..."

And then what?

Make a beeline for Yonder wall.

or Get You down to the courtYard and escape out a side door.

Finally got the Queen! What will you do to get her out of the castle, friends?
Vote in the comments below :)
Voting has closed on this post! Please click here to move to the next post in the story :)
___________________________________________________________________
If you like what you see, sign up for my email list! New subscribers get a FREE copy of a choose-your-own-adventure style ebook novella called Percy's Armageddon: Pick Your Plot Prequel!

#AtoZChallenge - Wait here!

It's all about the 50/50 splits these days! The Tiebreaker is getting quite a workout this year.

For those who are here for the first time, this is an interactive fiction adventure. I will write a scene every day, and my visitors will vote for where they want the story to go next, by leaving a comment on the post. You can start from the beginning here.

W:
Sir Andrew held his breath and stood as still as possible as he waited for the gravel-voiced reptile to leave the room. He had barely begun to exhale in relief when he felt a tug and a scamper on his cloak. He gasped in surprise to see a Squirrel suddenly standing on his shoulder.
In a breathy, highpitched voice the Squirrel said, "Sir Andrew! We saw you climb into the room! I come with a message from Gorilla!" He handed Andy a small scroll of paper, where he saw in Gorilla's brutish handwriting:

"Message from Queen said Turtle."

Andy's eyes went wide. "Oh, Gorilla, THANK YOU! Come with me, Squirrel! I know where she is!!"
Squirrel poked his head out the door and made a tiny-handed gesture to tell Sir Andrew the coast was clear. Andy scooped up his little helper and carried him up the stairs, past the King's antechamber (he was amused to note that the pink clothes hamper had been left laying on its side after disgorging its contents), and back to the Turtle's room.

How should Andy approach the room?

eXpress his dismay at Turtle's betrayal, and wheedle his way to the Queen.

or run eXtra fast through the room straight to what must be a doorway hidden by the tapestry.

We're almost there! We've almost found her!
How should Sir Andrew handle the situation? Let me know in the comments, and we'll see how it goes tomorrow :)
Voting has closed on this post! Please click here to move to the next post in the story :)
___________________________________________________________________
If you like what you see, sign up for my email list! New subscribers get a FREE copy of a choose-your-own-adventure style ebook novella called Percy's Armageddon: Pick Your Plot Prequel!

#AtoZChallenge - Veer toward the Turkey!

So after two days of editing madness to finish my graduate school application, it was really difficult to turn off my internal editor to write this post! Here you go, though :)

For those who are here for the first time, this is an interactive fiction adventure. I will write a scene every day, and my visitors will vote for where they want the story to go next, by leaving a comment on the post. You can start from the beginning here.

V:
Sir Andrew veered left out of the Turtle's room, headed toward the Turkey who now appeared to be brazenly taking a nap on the balcony. Suddenly, he heard a hissing noise and around the corner in front of him came the two snakes he'd dealt with earlier in the day.
"THERE HE ISSSSSS...," one shout-hissed.
Sir Andrew bolted out onto the balcony next to the sleeping Turkey and ever so quickly and quietly tied his rope to the balcony railing and scampered down the side of the castle. He climbed into the window just below the Turkey's balcony and with a smart whip of his wrist, released the rope from the railing.
He pushed a chair in front of a curtain, and then dashed behind the hanging just as some sort of reptile with a gruff voice walked in - "Where is he? He can't have gotten far...!"

What should our brave hero do?

Wait here - it's a good hiding spot!
As soon as the coast is clear, Wander to another part of the castle.

Alrighty! We only have four letters left to find Queen Eileen and stop this battle! What do you think is the best way to do that? Vote in the comments below and I'll write the next bit of the story tomorrow morning. :)
Voting has closed on this post! Please click here to move to the next post in the story :)
___________________________________________________________________
If you like what you see, sign up for my email list! New subscribers get a FREE copy of a choose-your-own-adventure style ebook novella called Percy's Armageddon: Pick Your Plot Prequel!

#AtoZChallenge - Understanding history, with Turtle

Can you believe it's the last week of the Challenge?? I can't! We need to find this Queen, people! Where is she?!

For those who are here for the first time, this is an interactive fiction adventure. I will write a scene every day, and my visitors will vote for where they want the story to go next, by leaving a comment on the post. You can start from the beginning here.

U:
"Turtle, can you tell me more about the Battle of the Sandbox?" Andy said, sitting on the floor next to the giant creature.
"Ahh.. That is ancient history, my boy. But it went much like all battles must. A great harm done, in a great place. To undo the wrongdoing, one side declared war. Many died. There were treacheries. A hero emerged - I carried him on my back, for a stretch. We thought we'd lost him, but he returned to us, with the great prize recaptured, and then there was peace. ..for a time."
"For a time?" Sir Andrew said, fidgeting in his spot.
"There are always more battles, child. Go find your Queen. End this fight as soon as you can, lest you lose someone you love."
Andy stood up, picked up his coil of rope and readjusted his cape. "Thank you, Turtle."
"You are welcome child."
Before he left, Sir Andrew took one last look around the room inhabited by the ancient giant. Thick draperies covered one wall, and he just noticed a giant stack of vegetables in one corner, with shredded bits of refuse scattered on the surrounding floor.

What should Andy do?

Venture back the way he came - perhaps the Queen really was near the King's chamber?

Veer left toward that Turkey!

or Explore that Vegetable corner.

Alrighty, voters! Do your thang! New section will be up tomorrow :)
Voting has closed on this post! Please click here to move to the next post in the story :)
___________________________________________________________________
If you like what you see, sign up for my email list! New subscribers get a FREE copy of a choose-your-own-adventure style ebook novella called Percy's Armageddon: Pick Your Plot Prequel!

#AtoZChallenge - Talk to the Turtle

Well, yesterday's voting yielded a 50/50 split, so I called in the official tie breaker, who said, "Not that it matters..."


I don't think our turtle is *quite* that old..

For those who are here for the first time, this is an interactive fiction adventure. I will write a scene every day, and my visitors will vote for where they want the story to go next, by leaving a comment on the post. You can start from the beginning here.

T:
Erring on the side of wisdom and safety, Sir Andrew turned left into the beautiful room whose sole occupant was an ancient Turtle. The Turtle languidly turned his head to look at Andy when he walked in the room and said, "A human boy? I haven't seen a human boy in many years..."
"I am Sir Andrew, of the furry creatures. I'm trying to find our Queen so we can end this battle!"
"Ah, this is about a Queen, is it? I've been in so many battles I've lost track," the Turtle said. "Why are you talking to me, then? I am not your Queen." The Turtle laughed in a dry way that reminded Sir Andrew of the sound of grasses brushing against one another.
"No, you aren't my Queen. But you look wise, and you're not dressed for fighting, so I thought I would ask if you knew anything."
"I know many things, child. But I do not know where to find your Queen."
"I guess it was worth a try. You really don't know anything?"
"I have heard a small Dog in these halls, who I would assume to be your Queen, but I don't get out much so cannot tell you where she is being held."
"She's close, then! That's wonderful!" Sir Andrew clapped his hands excitedly. Then he paused, and asked, "How did you get that big scar on your back?" He gestured to a deep slash across the Turtle's shell.
"The Great Battle of the Sandbox. That was all the way back last Summer. I still find grains of sand in the cracks in my skin."
"That sounds terrible!" Sir Andrew said. He had heard of the battle, though his senses of time and history were not very keen, and he couldn't be certain how long ago Last Summer was.

Sir Andrew knows the Queen is nearby, but is enjoying talking to the Turtle. What should be his next move?

Stay with the Turtle to Understand more about history.

Make his way Up somewhere - the Queen must be on a higher floor.

Perhaps they are keeping the Queen down somewhere? Find a way to get to the Underfloors.

Alrighty! Y'all have til early Monday morning to vote on the next chapter! Let me know in the comments below where you think the story should go :)
Have a great weekend!
Voting has closed on this post! Please click here to move to the next post in the story :)
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If you like what you see, sign up for my email list! New subscribers get a FREE copy of a choose-your-own-adventure style ebook novella called Percy's Armageddon: Pick Your Plot Prequel!

#AtoZChallenge - Sniff around the table!

Phew! Thanks to everyone who voted at the last minute last night! Let's see what's on that table, shall we?

For those who are here for the first time, this is an interactive fiction adventure. I will write a scene every day, and my visitors will vote for where they want the story to go next, by leaving a comment on the post. You can start from the beginning here.

S:
Sir Andrew realized that the earlier mysterious mention of food had actually made him a bit hungry, so he walked over to the small table in the room, in hopes of finding something to snack on. Unfortunately, there wasn't anything edible. He did notice some bits of wing and insect legs that showed that something reptilian had had a morsel there, but there weren't any bits that would be exciting for a human to eat. But! Hanging on the corner of the table was a long rope!
It was coiled and the layers of rope seemed to be coated with plastic that held it in its shape, but Andy found that it was easy to pull the rope out straight. He slung the coil over his shoulder and headed toward one of the doors across the room.
On the other side of the door, Andy discovered himself in a slim servants' hallway. He followed the hallway until it split at a T. To the left he could see a richly appointed room occupied by an ancient and battle-scarred turtle. To his right was a balcony occupied by a turkey who lazed against the railing, presumably watching the battle outside.

What should Andy do?

Talk to the Turtle.

Walk over and see what the Turkey is all about
or Turn around! Hide! Don't get caught.

Awwww yeah... Turkeys and Turtles.. What'll it be, folks? Vote in the comments and let me know!
Happy Friday!
Voting has closed on this post! Please click here to move to the next post in the story :)
___________________________________________________________________
If you like what you see, sign up for my email list! New subscribers get a FREE copy of a choose-your-own-adventure style ebook novella called Percy's Armageddon: Pick Your Plot Prequel!

#AtoZChallenge - Go Round the Corner

Yipes! Latest post EVER! But, it's partly late because I got to spend a couple hours with a 3 week old and her mama whom I haven't seen in a while, so.. sorry not sorry.
Super short and not much story progress so I can just get this posted. :P Here you go!

For those who are here for the first time, this is an interactive fiction adventure. I will write a scene every day, and my visitors will vote for where they want the story to go next, by leaving a comment on the post. You can start from the beginning here.

R:
Sir Andrew poked his head around the corner, to see what was there. He found he had a good mental map of the castle somehow, so knew there was a small room nearby. But he couldn't know *who* was nearby. He was relieved to find the small room empty, but for a small table at one end and a window at the other. Across the room were two doors that went through to a hallway.

What should Andy do?

Sneak a peek out the window.

Sniff around the table to see what's there.

or Stealthily proceed through to See what's through the doors.

OK go ahead and vote! I promise to write a bit more for you tomorrow!
Voting has closed on this post! Please click here to move to the next post in the story :)
___________________________________________________________________
If you like what you see, sign up for my email list! New subscribers get a FREE copy of a choose-your-own-adventure style ebook novella called Percy's Armageddon: Pick Your Plot Prequel!

#AtoZChallenge - "Quit the Battle, Brave Knight!"

Hi, everyone! I'm back! Still not done with that application, but a good deal closer :)
Wasn't that a fun aside with Dan? That's why I enjoy writing with him so much- he keeps me on my toes! Hopefully we'll have another full-length adventure for y'all sometime soon.

For those who are here for the first time, this is an interactive fiction adventure. I will write a scene every day, and my visitors will vote for where they want the story to go next, by leaving a comment on the post. You can start from the beginning here.

Q:
"Quit the battle, brave knight. Food awaits!" The words echoed through the hallway where Sir Andrew was industriously handling his two captors.
"This is no time for food! Or for quitting!" he shouted to the heavens, "We are trying to rescue the Queen!" He huffed as he lifted a heavy lid onto a conspicuously pink laundry basket that sat in a corner of the castle foyer, sealing one of his serpentine foes inside. He had tied the other snake into knots around an umbrella he'd found in the corner, and dusted his hands as he surveyed his work.
"Now, where do I find my Queen?"

Where do you think he should go?

Run further up the stairs toward the top of the tower.

Go 'Round the corner to see what other places might be useful.

or Try to Rouse some more support in the castle by finding the other prisoners.

Bombs away! You know the drill - tell me in the comments below what you think our brave Knight should do next, and I'll write the next scene when I get up in the morning! :)
Voting has closed on this post! Please click here to move to the next post in the story :)
___________________________________________________________________
If you like what you see, sign up for my email list! New subscribers get a FREE copy of a choose-your-own-adventure style ebook novella called Percy's Armageddon: Pick Your Plot Prequel!

#AtoZChallenge - Pull Him Off-Balance

Hey y'all! My super-awesome co-author Dan is filling in for me for a couple days while I finish writing my application to grad school. I leave you in good hands. Have fun!
See you Wednesday,
~AJ

For those who are here for the first time, this is an interactive fiction adventure. I will write a scene every day, and my visitors will vote for where they want the story to go next, by leaving a comment on the post. You can start from the beginning here.

P:
In a moment of refreshing clarity and precision, Andy's mom gauged her attacker's speed and angled her body slightly away from him to conceal her secret weapon, the umbrella. She loosened her grip on it, allowing it to slide through her hand until she could feel the band around the top of it. Then she held it fast, waiting like a viper for her moment to strike.

He ran forward, pulling a wicked-looking knife out of his pocket as he did. A grin began to steal across his face, only to disappear into an expression of astonishment as Andy's mom struck, swinging her umbrella out from behind her with lightning speed and a swordmaster's accuracy. She caught his heel with the hooked handle and pulled with all her might as she twisted it, causing his knees to buckle as his body suddenly shifted direction.

He fell, hard, onto the flagstones and she could hear his "Wufff" as the breath was knocked out of his lungs. The knife clattered off into the grass some distance away. Lying supine on the ground, he shook his head as if to clear it, but it was plain his vision was still swimming.

Andy's mom stepped forward, placed the heel of a shoe against one of his splayed arms and, taking hold of the hook-handle of her umbrella, positioned the pointed end firmly against the would-be assailant's Adam's apple. In the most authoritative Slovak she could muster, she declared, "Yield," and the man stopped struggling.

Moments later friendly agents spilled out of the castle gate and saw, to their surprise, Andy's mom standing like a victorious Sir George over the vanquished dragon. The special agent in charge was among them, and he immediately strode past her to assist Mrs. Klímová  -- her eyes beaming in admiration -- out of the vehicle a second time. As he did, to Andy's mom he said, "Pack your things."

Caught off-guard she responded, "Sorry, what was that, sir?"

"Pack your things, agent, he said, flashing her a look of approval, as he led Mrs. Klímová by the hand. "You're headed to Crimea in the morning to begin field operative training."

Andy's mom smiled at the memory, scooping sliced peppers into a simmering pan. Those were interesting days.

She checked the oven. Dinner would be ready soon. She walked to the kitchen doorway, where she could hear the faint sounds of plastic smashing against plastic over and over from Andy's room. Knowing that it would take him a while to respond when so engrossed, she called out.

What should Andy's mom say?

"Quick, Andy, wash your hands and set the table!"

"Quiet down those monsters and get ready for dinner!"

"Quit the battle, brave knight. Food awaits!"

Voting has closed on this post! Please click here to move to the next post in the story :)

Hey there, I hope you enjoyed my slight detour for the last few days. AJ will be back at the helm tomorrow. It's been my abundant pleasure to write for you. I wish you all the best of luck in your adventures to come!
~Dan
___________________________________________________________________
If you like what you see, sign up for my email list! New subscribers get a FREE copy of a choose-your-own-adventure style ebook novella called Percy's Armageddon: Pick Your Plot Prequel!

#AtoZChallenge - Obscure Her Path

Hey y'all! My super-awesome co-author Dan is filling in for me for a couple days while I finish writing my application to grad school. I leave you in good hands. Have fun!
See you Wednesday,
~AJ

For those who are here for the first time, this is an interactive fiction adventure. I will write a scene every day, and my visitors will vote for where they want the story to go next, by leaving a comment on the post. You can start from the beginning here.

O:
The trailing car was catching up a lot faster than Andy's mom hoped. Plainly they knew their way around Bratislava better than she did. She made a mental note to get out of her office more.

Finding an opportunity, she slowed down near an intersection flanked by tall buildings and whipped into a left turn, then left again before her pursuers could catch sight of her.  Retracing their route back to Bratislava Castle a block over, she tried to breathe calmly to slow her heart rate. She could barely hear for its heavy pounding. With her head on a swivel, she watched for any sign that her ploy had been discovered.

"Did we lose them?" Mrs. Klímová asked, reverting to Slovak in a near-whisper.

"I think so. Let's get you back to the castle," Andy's mom replied in kind, checking her mirrors. The rain showed no sign of letting up and the dark was thorough, so she didn't dare turn off her lights as an added precaution. Nevertheless, they arrived at Castle Bratislava without any sign of pursuit.

She parked the car, stepped out, and hurried around to assist Mrs. Klímová.

"Aren't you something, miss." Mrs. Klímová chuckled as she handed Andy's mom her umbrella back.  "I don't believe I've ever been so ably protected!"

Andy's mom was about to make some demur comment about not being a field agent, when Mrs. Klímová's sharp intake of breath alerted her and she turned to see another trenchcoated man, who had apparently been left behind as a sentry, sprinting toward them across the castle walkway!

What should Andy's mom do?

Put up a hue and cry to alert someone.

Punch the assailant in the face.

Pull him off-balance with the umbrella.

Voting has closed on this post! Please click here to move to the next post in the story :)


Bonus: photo of ACTUAL Bratislava Castle, by user LMih on Wikipedia.

Have a wonderful Monday!
~Dan

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If you like what you see, sign up for my email list! New subscribers get a FREE copy of a choose-your-own-adventure style ebook novella called Percy's Armageddon: Pick Your Plot Prequel!

#AtoZChallenge - Nudge Her Into the Car

Hey y'all! My super-awesome co-author Dan is filling in for me for a couple days while I finish writing my application to grad school. I leave you in good hands. Have fun!
See you Wednesday,
~AJ

For those who are here for the first time, this is an interactive fiction adventure. I will write a scene every day, and my visitors will vote for where they want the story to go next, by leaving a comment on the post. You can start from the beginning here.

N:
"Mrs. Klímová, I'm terribly sorry for the inconvenience, but get back in the car."

"I'm sorry, dear?" responded the lady. "I'd rather go in-"

"No time!" Andy's mom interrupted, shoving on Mrs. Klímová's arm abruptly. It sent her teetering back into rear seat of the vehicle, umbrella and all. Andy's mom slammed the door and stopped for a moment to glare at the approaching men, who paused upon realizing they'd been made before picking up their pace.

Mrs. Klímová, finally realizing something was amiss, locked her door and peered out the rear window. Andy's mom hopped in the passenger front door and looked at the driver, only to realize to her dismay that he was a doughy boy, barely eighteen, in an ill-fitting chauffer's uniform. Hardly someone she could count on in a tough spot.

"Out!" she barked, in clipped Slovak. He turned to look at her, foggily uncomprehending. Andy's mom mulled her word choice again, and tried a different tack. "Go, find help," she said, reaching over him to push open his door. She all but ejected the confused man, slid ungracefully over into the driver's seat, and slammed on the gas. The driver's door slammed itself shut as the car lurched into motion.

"They're almost here!" said Mrs. Klímová from the back seat, alarmed. Andy's mom looked up in the mirror to see that the men had nearly reached the car, but they weren't about to catch up now! She continued to watch, belatedly worried about the young man, but saw that the two pursuers had turned and hailed another car, whose lights flickered on maybe a hundred meters down the road.

Muttering something unprofessional under her breath, Andy's mom turned her attention to her driving and realized they were coming quickly to an intersection. She racked her brain for her limited knowledge of Bratislava's streets and tried to make a decision in the dark and rain.

What should Andy's mom do?

Obey protocol and find somewhere to report in.

Outdistance her pursuers in the city streets.

Obscure her path by looping back around.

Voting has closed on this post! Please click here to move to the next post in the story :)

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If you like what you see, sign up for my email list! New subscribers get a FREE copy of a choose-your-own-adventure style ebook novella called Percy's Armageddon: Pick Your Plot Prequel!

#AtoZChallenge - Mugging Escorts

Hey y'all! My super-awesome co-author Dan is filling in for me for a couple days while I finish writing my application to grad school. I leave you in good hands. Have fun!
See you Wednesday,
~AJ

For those who are here for the first time, this is an interactive fiction adventure. I will write a scene every day, and my visitors will vote for where they want the story to go next, by leaving a comment on the post. You can start from the beginning here.

M:
"A mugging! That's what this situation calls for!" Andy exclaimed, and in the other room his mother looked up from slicing potatoes.

"A mugging, Andrew?" She murmured to herself. "My my, what trouble you're getting into." She smiled as she slid the potatoes into the pot, remembering the old days -- and her old life -- in the secret service.

It was the late 80's, in Bratislava, in a castle above the river in the middle of the city, where she had been stationed as an intelligence officer to assist in protecting a diplomat. Or was it a dissident? Andy's mom suddenly felt a bit of uncertainty.

Shaking her head, she searched for clues in her memory. She remember it was night, and raining, when the person-of-interest's car drove up. The security detail was preoccupied with something, so they had sent Andy's mom -- though this was many years before he was born, of course -- down to the car to meet the woman, a Mrs. Klímová. It was the night that Andy's mom first got a taste of action, a night that changed the course of her life.

"Welcome, Mrs. Klímová," she said through chattering teeth in her best Slovak, keeping her coat closed with one hand and holding out an umbrella as the middle-aged woman -- only a little older than I am now -- stepped out of the car.

"Oh, don't worry, dear, I speak English fine," the woman responded in a comforting American accent, taking the umbrella in her own hand. "Let's get inside, shall we?"

At that moment, Andy's mom finally noticed the two men in trenchcoats who had appeared under a streetlight. The dark silhouettes were walking towards the women already, hands in their pockets and purpose in their strides, and Andy's mom's heart leapt into double-time.

They had the air of muggers, but what would muggers be doing here? The castle was in a rather isolated district of Bratislava!

What should Andy's mom do?

Make Noise to call for help.

Take Note of their posture and prepare to attack.

Nudge Mrs. Klímová back into the car and take off.

Hello! It's a pleasure to write for you. Please leave a comment indicating your one vote for the direction of the story, and I will tally them tonight to prepare tomorrow's post!
~Dan
Voting has closed on this post! Please click here to move to the next post in the story :)
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If you like what you see, sign up for my email list! New subscribers get a FREE copy of a choose-your-own-adventure style ebook novella called Percy's Armageddon: Pick Your Plot Prequel!

2016 #AtoZChallenge - Loud and Demanding

For those who are here for the first time, this is an interactive fiction adventure. I will write a scene every day, and my visitors will vote for where they want the story to go next, by leaving a comment on the post. You can start from the beginning here.

L:
"My name is Sir Andrew, from the mammals, and I demand that you release Queen Eileen!"
The Lizard King turned his head toward Andy, and also both of his creepy iguana eyes. His eyes twitched around the room independently as he spoke, "Why should I obey? She is mine now."
"She is not! She belongs to the furry creatures! You must return her or we'll continue to attack the castle."
The King turned one eye to the window, as T-Rex tossed a chipmunk back over the wall. "That's not going well. I tire of you, human."
Sir Andrew put his hands on his hips and did his best impression of his five year old sister and demanded, "Wait! What do you want from us?"
"The Queen. And war."
"But war is bad!" Andy said.
"I am bad. And I am done with you. Guards!"
The two snakes slipped back into the room. One wound his tail around Sir Andrew's arm.
"I'll be back, King!"
"I'll count on it," the King said. He turned languidly back to the scene out side his window and the snake pulled Andy out of the chamber.

What should Andy do?

Somehow Make the snakes let go.

Mug his snake escorts and get away

or Make a go at heading up the stairs.

OK go ahead and vote! My pal Dan is taking over to write for the next couple days so I can write my grad school application. I leave you in good hands :) Dan will write before he goes to bed tonight, so vote quick!
Voting has closed on this post! Please click here to move to the next post in the story :)
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If you like what you see, sign up for my email list! New subscribers get a FREE copy of a choose-your-own-adventure style ebook novella called Percy's Armageddon: Pick Your Plot Prequel!

#AtoZChallenge - The Reptile King

Late post! Busy day. Vote on :)

For those who are here for the first time, this is an interactive fiction adventure. I will write a scene every day, and my visitors will vote for where they want the story to go next, by leaving a comment on the post. You can start from the beginning here.

K:
Andy stood up out of the hay, put his hands on his hips in a brave fashion and said, "I demand to see your King!" Several of the smaller reptiles paused in their running about when he spoke, but did not stop to speak to him or point him in the right way.
So Sir Andrew approached a Triceratops that was using her horns to move logs and sticks into a large pile and said, "My name is Sir Andrew, of the furry creatures, and I demand to see your King!"
The Triceratops snorted and rumbled, "He's in the castle. Enter through that gate and up the stairs. You will find his chambers there." And with that the dinosaur turned back to her work, ignoring the presence of the human inside the castle gates.
Andy ran into the castle and up the stairs. At the door to the chambers were two hooded snakes, with capes draped about their hoods, and bands of gold on their fangs. When Andy walked up he saw a bead of poison form at the point of a fang. He stopped short.
"Hello. My name is Sir Andrew of the mammals. I am here to speak to your King about returning our Queen to us."
One snake entered the chamber and returned shortly saying, "The King isss busssy.. You will ssspeak quickly, or you will feel the pain of my fanggsss..."
Andy bowed slightly, keeping a sharp eye on the snake's position, and entered the chamber.
To Andy's surprise, the King of the Lizards was an Iguana! His bright green stripes seemed out of place against the dark grey of the castle walls as he lounged in a window overlooking the battle. One eye swiveled toward Andy while the other looked at a Pterodactyl delivering a message through the open window.
"Can I help you?" the King said.
"My name is Sir Andrew, from the mammals..." Andy began.

How should Sir Andrew proceed?

Loudly demand the return of the Queen

Speak of his Love of the Queen to win the King over

or Leave the room, because that guy is scary!

OK! Voting closes at 5:30am MTN/7:30am EDT. You know the drill. Let me know in the comments where you think the story should go, and I will take it wherever you tell me to!
Voting has closed on this post! Please click here to move to the next post in the story :)
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If you like what you see, sign up for my email list! New subscribers get a FREE copy of a choose-your-own-adventure style ebook novella called Percy's Armageddon: Pick Your Plot Prequel!

#AtoZChallenge: Jump into the castle!

For those who are here for the first time, this is an interactive fiction adventure. I will write a scene every day, and my visitors will vote for where they want the story to go next, by leaving a comment on the post. You can start from the beginning here.

J:
Sir Andrew surveyed the scene inside the castle walls. A massive T-Rex was near the castle gate, terrorizing all mammalian creatures who came near. His deep roars shook the castle walls. A Brontosaurus took up most of the rest of the main courtyard, with his long tail sweeping across the open area, almost penning the T-Rex into position. Small reptiles ran hither and thither, carrying out various tasks or waiting to be directed. In the close corner of the scene was a giant pile of hay. Sir Andrew ran along the rampart until he was situated just above the pile, took a deep breath to steady himself, and jumped off the wall onto the pile of hay.
"Oof!" he said as he landed clunkily into the pile. A very tiny little reptile came out from its burrow in the hay, looked at him in stark surprise, and scurried off to another corner. Andy burrowed into the hay a bit to further consider his choices.

What should Sir Andrew do?

Run into the Keep proper,

Walk up to a reptile and demand to see the reptile King,

or Do his Knightly duty and start doing away with the reptiles.

I've always wanted to use the phrase 'hither and thither' in a story :D
You know the drill! Vote in the comments below on where you think our hero should go next! Voting closes at 5:30am MDT/7:30am EDT so I can write the next bit before work tomorrow!
Voting has closed on this post! Please click here to move to the next post in the story :)
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If you like what you see, sign up for my email list! New subscribers get a FREE copy of a choose-your-own-adventure style ebook novella called Percy's Armageddon: Pick Your Plot Prequel!

#AtoZChallenge - Into the fray!

Good morning, everyone! Are you all ready for the second week of A-Z? I hope everyone's Challenge is going well :)

For those who are here for the first time, this is an interactive fiction adventure. I will write a scene every day, and my visitors will vote for where they want the story to go next, by leaving a comment on the post. You can start from the beginning here.

I:
Sir Andrew drew his sword, took a deep breath, and jumped down Into the mass of snakes. They cleared just enough space for his feet to land and he hit the ground swinging. With great precision the dashing Sir began smashing at the heads of his foes! One after another he walloped them with his giant plastic sword and each snake fell prone to his Intimidating sword skills.
It wasn't until there was only one snake left that Andy realized that the squirrel had come down with him and had started pushing each snake off the rampart as he rendered them incapacitated. It was just Sir Andrew, and a giant hooded Cobra.
"Ssssoooo... This iss the great Sssir Andrew... Come to ressscue your Queen. Well. You've beaten my sssssnakess.. Let'ss see how you do with the rest of the reptilessss.." And with that he turned and disappeared into one of the garrets, before Andy could reply.
"Quick, squirrel, let everyone know I've cleared it up here! I'm just going to go.."

Where shall Sir Andrew go next?

Jump off the rampart into the castle?

Follow that Jerk snake?

or Just continue along the rampart to help others get in?

There you go! Leave your vote for what Sir Andrew should do in the comments below! Voting closes at 5:30am MDT/7:30am EDT on Tuesday! Am finding writing in the morning to be working well, so y'all get some extra time. Have a great day!
Voting has closed on this post! Please click here to move to the next post in the story :)
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If you like what you see, sign up for my email list! New subscribers get a FREE copy of a choose-your-own-adventure style ebook novella called Percy's Armageddon: Pick Your Plot Prequel!

2016 #AtoZChallenge - The great Hoist!

For those who are here for the first time, this is an interactive fiction adventure. I will write a scene every day, and my visitors will vote for where they want the story to go next, by leaving a comment on the post. You can start from the beginning here.

H:
"Gorilla! I need your help! To me, and horse!" Andy shouted over the crowd.
Gorilla rushed to his side and said, "What is it Sir?"
"The Squirrels! Do you see? They can't get past the top of the wall. I need you and Horse to hoist me up to the edge so I can see what is threatening them there."
After a brief logistical conference with Horse, Gorilla climbed aboard his back. He gripped Horse's mane with his dexterous toes and with a "hup!" popped Andy up above the edge of the wall. Andy gripped the edge of the wall so he could actually flip over it, and was immediately glad he hadn't just allowed himself to fall over.
Just past the lip of the wall were snakes. Lots. Of. Snakes.
One of them saw him and attempted to strike, but hit the leather of his boots and thankfully was unable to penetrate. A squirrel popped up next to Andy and hid behind his boot for safety.

What should Sir Andrew do?

Ignore them and walk long the edge to somewhere safe

or jump Into the fray and do away with as many as he can?

Vote for the next direction for the story in the comments below! Voting will close at 8:30pm MDT/10:30pm EDT.
Voting has closed on this post! Please click here to move to the next post in the story :)
_____________________________________________________________________________
If you like what you see, sign up for my email list! New subscribers get a FREE copy of a choose-your-own-adventure style ebook novella called Percy's Armageddon: Pick Your Plot Prequel!

2016 #AtoZChallenge - Ground attack!

Whoops! Today kindof got away from me! I've never really understood how it is that sometimes Fridays are so nuts. Sorry about the late post, but hey at least it's done, and a little longer! :)

Another A-Z'er wrote a piece of fan fiction about our story, y'all! Check Ginni out after you vote!

For those who are here for the first time, this is an interactive fiction adventure. I will write a scene every day, and my visitors will vote for where they want the story to go next by leaving a comment on the post. You can start from the beginning here.

G:
Andy walked over to where Gorilla was organizing the troops. "Sir Andrew!" Gorilla bowed, and the troops nearest him followed suit, causing a cascade of visible crowns of heads going back through the animals.
Andy climbed atop a horse so he could see everyone better. "Thank you, Gorilla. Troops!" he said, facing out toward the crowd, "We must do the right thing! And the right thing is to rescue Queen Eileen and bring her home!"
The crowd roared, chirped, squeaked, and made whatever noise a giraffe makes.
"Follow your captains! We will attack on all fronts, from the Ground! Move at three so we can be done by dinnertime!" Sir Andrew shook his fist at the castle as his troops rumbled behind him. "Come, Horse - we attack with Gorilla, from the bed-side of the castle!" Horse galloped off to a spot between the Castle and the Great Blue Bed and they were soon joined by Gorilla and the rest of the troops.
Sir Andrew hopped off Horse to speak to Gorilla. "It's almost time. When the light comes through the Window, we ride." He looked toward the castle and saw a pterodactyl watching them from atop the rampart.
Gorilla said, "Sir, I've tasked the squirrels, and Horse, and two birds to be at your service during battle. And of course, I won't be far away."
"Thank you, General. Are you ready?"
"I'm always ready," Gorilla said, bowing deeply with a dangerous glint in his eye. "Just tell me when."
Andy re-mounted Horse, and the others gathered near him. He took a deep breath and said, "Ready, set... CHARGE!!!"
A mass of furred creatures descended from all around the castle. Squirrels made terrible screeching noises, Horse carried Andrew to the wall so very swiftly, and over it all, Gorilla bellowed. Sir Andrew cringed as the pterodactyl swooped down, carrying off the tiniest of his troops, sometimes one in each talon. He glanced toward another side of the castle and saw Giraffe laden with several smaller troops and what looked like a ladder running up the back of his neck.
They reached the wall and the squirrels scampered up, reaching the top in only seconds. But, as many of the squirrels reached the top, they would stop short, make a jerking motion, and suddenly fall back, tumbling into the crowd below them.
"What could they possibly have up there, Horse?? Why are they falling?"

What should Sir Andrew do?

Hightail it back

Get Gorilla and Horse to Hoist Andy up the wall

or ask a bird to Hover over Andy to tell him what is going on up there.

(Turns out Giraffes do make noise, but we can't hear it. Check out this video at about 1:20)

Comment below with where you think the story should go! And let's go ahead and leave voting open until Saturday morning sometime. We're going to a concert tonight so I likely won't get back to writing this evening.

Voting has closed on this post! Please click here to move to the next post in the story :)
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If you like what you see, sign up for my email list! New subscribers get a FREE copy of a choose-your-own-adventure style ebook novella called Percy's Armageddon: Pick Your Plot Prequel!

#AtoZChallenge - Fight!

For those who are here for the first time, this is an interactive fiction adventure. I will write a scene every day, and my visitors will vote for where they want the story to go next, by leaving a comment on the post. You can start from the beginning here.

F:
"You heard him, Gorilla. We fight," Andy said.
"Yes, sir!" Gorilla brought his massive hand just above his eyes in a sharp salute and sauntered away, bellowing "Troops! To me! To me!"
Giraffe walked slowly toward Gorilla, his head swaying languidly high in the air in time with his steps. A small bird perched on his back and chirped merrily about the upcoming battle. Lion walked proudly next to Giraffe, flexing his muscles and looking down his nose at Gorilla, and various small dogs and other furry creatures swarmed on the ground between them.
"It's time to rescue Queen Eileen, Dog! They have had her for too long. How do you advise we begin the attack?"

Where should they attack first?

Straight at the Gate,

The Garrets at the top corners of the walls,

or on the Ground, surrounding the whole castle.

Cast your vote in the comments below! Voting closes at 8:30pm MDT/10:30pm EDT.

Voting has closed on this post! Please click here to move to the next post in the story :)
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If you like what you see, sign up for my email list! New subscribers get a FREE copy of a choose-your-own-adventure style ebook novella called Percy's Armageddon: Pick Your Plot Prequel!

#AtoZChallenge - Save Queen Eileen!

Today is one of those days where ALL THE THINGS happen at once! It's IWSG first-Wednesday, posting here, and I have a post up at the Main Challenge blog! Spoiler alert: contains mention of Wayne's World. Check it out :)

For IWSG all I'll say today is - SO much going on, SO many ideas, HOW does it all get done??

For those who are here for the first time, this is an interactive fiction adventure. I will write a scene every day, and my visitors will vote for where they want the story to go next, by leaving a comment on the post. You can start from the beginning here.

E:
"General Gorilla, we need to rescue Queen Eileen. The Dinosaurs have had her for three days, and her little puppy heart can't take much longer, I'm sure." Sir Andrew adjusted his cape around his shoulders, assuming a more Princely stance.
"Yes, Sir Andrew." Gorilla bowed deeply with a glint in his eye. He responded in his gravel voice, "Just say the word and we'll attack. I've always wanted to get into that castle."
Sir Andrew looked at his most loyal advisor and said, "Dog, you always know what's best. What do you think we should do?"

How should Dog respond? "Thank you sir, I believe the correct action is to...

"..run up a Flag of truce and try to negotiate for Queen Eileen's release"?

or "...attack now and Fight to the end"?

Vote in the comments for your favorite option! Voting closes at 8:30 MTN/10:30 EDT! 9pm was turning out to be too close to bedtime, gotta back it up half an hour. Thanks, everyone :)

Voting has closed on this post! Please click here to move to the next post in the story :)
__________________________________________________________________________
If you like what you see, sign up for my email list! New subscribers get a FREE copy of a choose-your-own-adventure style ebook novella called Percy's Armageddon: Pick Your Plot Prequel!

#AtoZChallenge - Dinosaurs prepare to Defend!

For those who are here for the first time, this is an interactive fiction adventure. I will write a scene every day, and my visitors will vote for where they want the story to go next, by leaving a comment on the post. You can start from the beginning here.

By a 2:1 margin, the Dinosaurs had it yesterday!

D:
"Dinosaurs, you'll defend your position against these hairy beasts!" He placed the dinosaur creatures inside the castle. Brontosaurus took up most of the courtyard, but the pterodactyls fit nicely up on the castle's walls. T-rex started near the castle gate, and the smaller creatures took up their positions looking out windows and arrowslits.
"Gorilla, muster your troops out on the carpet and make your plan of attack. You have to get in to get.. umm.."

But what are the dinosaurs protecting within the castle?

Enormous jewels,

The quEEn of the furry creatures,

or Enough food for a year?

Vote in the comments for your favorite option! Voting closes at 8:30 MTN/10:30 EDT! 9pm is turning out to be too close to bedtime, gotta back it up half an hour. Thanks, everyone :)

Voting has closed on this post! Please click here to move to the next post in the story :)
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If you like what you see, sign up for my email list! New subscribers get a FREE copy of a choose-your-own-adventure style ebook novella called Percy's Armageddon: Pick Your Plot Prequel!

2016 #AtoZChallenge - Castle!

For those who are here for the first time, this is an interactive fiction adventure. I will write a scene every day, and my visitors will vote for where they want the story to go next, by leaving a comment on the post. You can start from the beginning here.

C:
"The castle! A formidable shelter, despite damage from a midnight catastrophe!" Andy pulled the castle across the floor into the middle of his room. He reset a couple scenes within the castle's rooms, and replaced a little plastic flag on top of one of the turrets. The flag had a green and blue sticker on it that had started to peel up at the edges a bit. He scattered blocks near the broken portion of the wall, giving an impression of recent destruction. As a final touch, Andy drew the drawbridge, to prepare for battle.
"I've decided, troops! We're going to battle the furry creatures vs the reptiles. Assemble your ranks, and we'll pick sides next." He separated the plastic toys into two groups. Dinosaurs, snakes and iguanas here - dogs, monkeys, and horses over there. He put a couple birds with each group. Gorilla, of course, went with his furry fellows. "Are you happy Gorilla? We're almost ready to fight! Now, who will defend the castle, and who will attack?"

Which band of creatures will defend the castle?

Dinosaurs and other scaly beasts

or the Dogs and the furry creatures?

Cast your vote for one of the two choices in the comments below! Voting closes at 9pm MTN/11pm EDT so I can write before bed!
Voting has closed on this post! Please click here to move to the next post in the story :)
_____________________________________________________________________
And, if you like what you see, sign up for my email list! New subscribers get a FREE copy of a choose-your-own-adventure style ebook novella called Percy's Armageddon: Pick Your Plot Prequel!

2016 #AtoZChallenge - the Beasts of the Battle

Well that was an overwhelming vote in favor of an Epic Battle of the Beasts!

For those who are here for the first time, this is an interactive fiction adventure. I will write a scene every day, and my visitors will vote for where they want the story to go next, by leaving a comment on the post. You can start from the beginning here.

B: 
Andy walked over to his pile of creatures - a small plastic hill of hooves, beaks, claws, and haunches that rose up next to his toybox like a lumpy on-ramp.
"Alright, troops! Time for some action. Now let's see who is fit for duty today!" he said, rummaging through the pile. He set aside some smaller animals to use as ground troops and lined up the larger animals for inspection.
"Hmm..." Andy said, picking at what remained of a tree-climbing blister. "Who to pick, who to pick?" He surveyed the troops, and suddenly grabbed ahold of a purple gorilla. "Be patient, Gorilla! It's important to make the best decisions in war!" He slammed the gorilla back in line and looked around the room, giving various spots a squinty-eyed consideration.
"I think..? Well, where should the battle be?" He eyed up a Lego castle in the corner. Its half-tumbled ramparts were the unfortunate result of a collision during a late-night trip to the bathroom.  The bed was a good spot. He could drape his covers over the head and footboard to create a world in the depths of night. Or, there was always the open carpet. The more space, the bigger the mess, after all!

Where shall be our Beastly Battlefield?

The toy Castle

Under the Covers

or the open Carpet

Please vote in the comments! Voting closes at 10pm Eastern/8pm Mountain Time (USA) on Sunday so I have time to write before bed :)
Voting has closed on this post! Please click here to move to the next part of the story! :) ___________________________________________________________
If you like what you see, sign up for my email list! New subscribers get a FREE copy of a choose-your-own-adventure style ebook novella called Percy's Armageddon: Pick Your Plot Prequel!

2016 #AtoZChallenge - Another interactive Adventure!

Welcome, welcome, everyone!

Back by popular demand, for the second year in a row my theme for A-Z is interactive fiction! So every day I will write a short bit of a story, and then my lovely readers will get the opportunity to vote for what direction they want the story to go next by leaving a comment. Is it madness to be an A-Z Challenge co-host and to commit to also writing every day? Yes, yes it is. Is it going to be awesome? I hope so!

I have absolutely no idea where this story is going to go because it is up to y'all, so it should be fun! Here we go...

A:
"Mo-ommm! Mom, I'm bored!" Andy walked into the kitchen and tugged at his mom's shirt, whining. 
"Honey, you need to learn how to entertain yourself," she said, waving him away. "You'll be home all summer and I can't tell you what to do all day, every day. Why don't you go play with some toys in your room?"
"I already played with all of them," Andy said.
"ALL of them?" his mom replied, "Are you sure?"
"Ugh. Yes." he said.
"Well, find a new way to play with them. I need to get dinner in the oven. Go! Shoo!" She dug into the open pantry, and Andy knew the conversation was over.
Andy slouched away to his room and huffed down onto his beanbag chair. The little styrofoam balls shifted under his weight and seemed to sigh along with their occupant. He looked around the room at his toys, sports equipment, and games, and debated how to spend the afternoon.

What should Andy do?

Challenge himself to a game of Battleship?

Take his Baseball into the Backyard?

or create an epic Battle for his Beastly toys to fight?

Please vote in the comments! Voting closes at 9pm Eastern so I have time to write before bed :)
Voting has closed on this post! Please click here to move to the next part of the story! :)

#atozchallenge Theme Reveal!

People. Can you feel the excitement for this year's #atozchallenge?? Because my head is about ready to explode!

We're so close, which means it is time for the annual Theme Reveal! I love hopping around finding out what everyone is going to be writing/picturing/drawing/posting about. It's like a little hors d'oeuvres for the Challenge. Yum.

By popular demand, I have decided to do another Pick Your Plot A-Z Adventure this year. That means that my ENTIRE THEME is dependent upon y'all visiting and commenting every day, because each day's post will be determined by the votes of those who read the story!

This is, yes, madness. Last year when I did it I was not working, and this year I have a lovely full-time job. And, umm, I'm a co-host. So, ya know. It's going to be a busy month. But guys, I CAN'T WAIT! 

I had so much fun writing my story last year that I've decided the madness is worth it.

What is your theme this year?

Visit the other Theme Reveal folks:

#atozchallenge Theme Reveal sign-ups!

Friends,  you still have one more week to sign up for the #atozchallenge Theme Reveal Day, which is next Monday!

The Theme Reveal started a few years ago because people were just chomping at the bit to get A-Z started, so this was a great way for everyone to be able to share their plans, and start to make some friends early. Pretty great reason, if you ask me.

If you are participating in the A-Z Challenge (and if you aren't, why not??), add your name to the list below and tell us what you'll be up to in April :)

IWSG - March 2016

The first Wednesday of every month is the Insecure Writer's Support Group, which was started by the ninja-captain himself, Alex J. Cavanaugh. Check out the IWSG page to see the list of others who participate (or to join!).

I totally initially titled this post "February 2016"... So that's a good indicator of where my head is at right now :)

I successfully submitted a story to an anthology for the first time yesterday! So that's exciting. Now, of course, we wait to hear if it will be accepted, but I'm mostly ok with whatever happens. I put something good out there, and if this anthology doesn't want it, there are always others, right?

There's part of me (a masochistic part? are all artists masochists in some ways?) that is actually looking forward to possibly getting a rejection. I guess it feels like getting rejections is part of being a 'real writer'. Someone who has been tempered and tested, so by the time there is an acceptance there is a little bit more legitimacy there. It means you've put yourself out there, had work critiqued by the industry, and been encouraged to keep working. Keep skill building, learning, reading books and taking classes. 

Not that I need any encouragement to keep learning things.

But.

Little nudges never hurt.

What little nudges have you had lately?

My "very messy chores" pants!

Look out world, it is a 'very messy chores' pants kind of day! #jeans #paint #bleach #homeownership

A photo posted by AJ Lauer (@ayjaylauer) on Jan 23, 2016 at 7:45am PST

This IG post is a little old, but I've been wearing my getting sh*t done pants a lot lately. :)
In relation to last week's post... These pants have been around for a good 8 years. Adulting. Just sayin'.
Also come follow me on IG!

What do you do when you need to tackle your to-do list? Drink caffeine? Make epic lists? Run and hide and watch TV instead?

First #atozchallenge Twitter Chat is tonight!

Hi friends!
A quick note to let you know that our first #azchat of the #atozchallenge season is tonight at 9pm Eastern/7pm Mountain time! Lots of cohosts and helpers will be around to answer questions and generally celebrate the upcoming A to Z awesomeness.

Hope to see you there :)