Is This Possible
By: James Dubeau
Is this possible
Can this be
Will it come to pass
Or will it all
Like all before
Tumble and fall
Only time will tell
What will come to pass
And what will
Only come to failure
Friday, January 29, 2010
Wednesday, January 27, 2010
Lagrangian Waltz - Episode 5
Lagrangian Waltz - Episode 5
By: James Dubeau
Start the adventure here
Previous episode here
Next episode here
“You do realize what he’s asking for,” Sin said as he stuffed tissues into his bleeding nose as the pair of smugglers sauntered to their bikes. “Master Solda Kumil has full backing of the Consul. Their full resources are at his beck and call. Asking us to retrieve the Governor’s son is nothing short of asking us to march to our deaths.”
Tahnel sighed heavily. “It is a tall order, that is to be sure, but it is what we must do. Trust me. You don’t want to be in the boy’s shoes right now.”
“You were able to secure payment for this operation, right?” Sin stuffed one of the governor’s cigars between his lips.
“His personal mechanics will go over the Bolide and bring her up to snuff,” the large being said, hopping onto his bike.
“If only Beltran knew how much work my baby needs,” Sin chuckled. “You are learning. I’ll make a decent smuggler out of you yet.”
Once back at the ship Tahnel jumped onto the communications system, contacting Master Solda Kumil. Arrangements were made for their ships to dock in orbit above Naurchand four. It was not long before the small freighter and larger cruiser were entwined in a tango above the planet.
Master Kumil was full of smiles and cheer as the two smugglers entered his ship. “It is good to see you again Tahnel. We have much to discuss. The Consul has changed since you left, changed for the better. You should return to the flock.”
“Yes,” Tahnel smiled, “let us discuss the Consul. I would like to hear about how everything is straight from your lips.”
“Got an infirmary on this hunk of junk?” Sin glared at Master Kumil.
“Your personality has earned you many friends,” Kumil smiled and motioned to one of the crew members standing next to him. “See if one of the medi-bots can take care of his nose.”
Master Kumil led Tahnel to the ship’s conference room. A long oak table surrounded in red leather chairs was the centerpiece of the room, a refreshments cabinet flanked on one wall. Kumil poured a couple of drinks and the pair sat. “I hate to see my former students in such poor situations. It was destined for you to be here and for you to return to us. Tell me, how did you end up with that pirate?”
“He prefers the term Cargo Acquisitioner,” Tahnel sipped the brown liquid. “He’s a good man and needed a good copilot. Wanderlust has yet to leave my veins. Shipping cargo across the galaxy is a suitable antidote.”
“You should have made your desires known,” Solda smiled. “The Consul would have given you operations across the galaxy. You could have seen more then you can from the cramped cockpit of a rusted out freighter.”
“Being independent has its advantages. I can meet with the locals, see how they truly are. Get to know them in a way that I would not be able to as a Consul representative.”
“I don’t follow,” Kumil frowned. “Everywhere I go I am greeted with open arms. Governors and peasants alike are glad to see me.”
“Arms that are opened by fear,” Tahnel crossed his arms. “When I was with the Consul I could see the fear in their quivering eyes, hear the fear in their trembling voices, and feel the fear in their souls. That fear set up barriers, barriers that prevented me from fully knowing people.”
“Those that fear the Consul do not understand the Consul. We only bring peace and protection. We are here for the good of all. Without us these outlaying worlds would be lost to chaos. Smugglers, pirates, and murderers would rule the space lanes.”
“Protection that comes from a heavy fist,” Tahnel’s clenched fist pounded the table. “The few that question the Consul fall to their blades.”
“Negotiations sometimes breakdown, I can not deny this,” Kumil sipped his drink. “These worlds are a wild frontier where anything goes. Sometimes the blade is needed to properly shed light.”
“That is precisely the reputation that invokes the fear. People know that if they do not agree with a Consul Representative they will either be tricked into agreement or killed. That is not a way to win true friends and allies for a war against the Empire.”
“Our methods may not be agreeable to you but they are lenient compared to what the Empire does. When they move in a full battle force always accompanies. A force which would not hesitate before wiping a planet clean. Those that survive live meager existences which are no better than slaves. The lucky ones are forced to propel the Empire’s military force forward.”
“At least the Empire doesn’t rip a child from his parents.”
“One must learn our ways from when they are young. You know this,” Kumil said. “It is a small price to pay to ensure peace in the galaxy.”
“If their own little section of the galaxy was left standing,” Tahnel glared across the table.
“Now we come to the heart of the matter,” Kumil patted his former student on the arm. “My greatest student would be by my side if he knew his parents. You know that there was nothing that could have been done.”
Tahnel frowned. “How can I stay with the Consul? Their great wisdom and power was not able to protect my parents.”
“Come back to us,” Kumil pleaded. “You can help those like you. Protect families of new recruits until they are old enough to do so themselves. Give up your smuggling life. I can offer you rank high enough to provide you freedom. Your own ship and crew would provide protection to those that need it.”
“You make one tempting offer,” Tahnel said as he tossed his drink down his gullet. “Tell me more of what plans you have for me.”
By: James Dubeau
Start the adventure here
Previous episode here
Next episode here
“You do realize what he’s asking for,” Sin said as he stuffed tissues into his bleeding nose as the pair of smugglers sauntered to their bikes. “Master Solda Kumil has full backing of the Consul. Their full resources are at his beck and call. Asking us to retrieve the Governor’s son is nothing short of asking us to march to our deaths.”
Tahnel sighed heavily. “It is a tall order, that is to be sure, but it is what we must do. Trust me. You don’t want to be in the boy’s shoes right now.”
“You were able to secure payment for this operation, right?” Sin stuffed one of the governor’s cigars between his lips.
“His personal mechanics will go over the Bolide and bring her up to snuff,” the large being said, hopping onto his bike.
“If only Beltran knew how much work my baby needs,” Sin chuckled. “You are learning. I’ll make a decent smuggler out of you yet.”
Once back at the ship Tahnel jumped onto the communications system, contacting Master Solda Kumil. Arrangements were made for their ships to dock in orbit above Naurchand four. It was not long before the small freighter and larger cruiser were entwined in a tango above the planet.
Master Kumil was full of smiles and cheer as the two smugglers entered his ship. “It is good to see you again Tahnel. We have much to discuss. The Consul has changed since you left, changed for the better. You should return to the flock.”
“Yes,” Tahnel smiled, “let us discuss the Consul. I would like to hear about how everything is straight from your lips.”
“Got an infirmary on this hunk of junk?” Sin glared at Master Kumil.
“Your personality has earned you many friends,” Kumil smiled and motioned to one of the crew members standing next to him. “See if one of the medi-bots can take care of his nose.”
Master Kumil led Tahnel to the ship’s conference room. A long oak table surrounded in red leather chairs was the centerpiece of the room, a refreshments cabinet flanked on one wall. Kumil poured a couple of drinks and the pair sat. “I hate to see my former students in such poor situations. It was destined for you to be here and for you to return to us. Tell me, how did you end up with that pirate?”
“He prefers the term Cargo Acquisitioner,” Tahnel sipped the brown liquid. “He’s a good man and needed a good copilot. Wanderlust has yet to leave my veins. Shipping cargo across the galaxy is a suitable antidote.”
“You should have made your desires known,” Solda smiled. “The Consul would have given you operations across the galaxy. You could have seen more then you can from the cramped cockpit of a rusted out freighter.”
“Being independent has its advantages. I can meet with the locals, see how they truly are. Get to know them in a way that I would not be able to as a Consul representative.”
“I don’t follow,” Kumil frowned. “Everywhere I go I am greeted with open arms. Governors and peasants alike are glad to see me.”
“Arms that are opened by fear,” Tahnel crossed his arms. “When I was with the Consul I could see the fear in their quivering eyes, hear the fear in their trembling voices, and feel the fear in their souls. That fear set up barriers, barriers that prevented me from fully knowing people.”
“Those that fear the Consul do not understand the Consul. We only bring peace and protection. We are here for the good of all. Without us these outlaying worlds would be lost to chaos. Smugglers, pirates, and murderers would rule the space lanes.”
“Protection that comes from a heavy fist,” Tahnel’s clenched fist pounded the table. “The few that question the Consul fall to their blades.”
“Negotiations sometimes breakdown, I can not deny this,” Kumil sipped his drink. “These worlds are a wild frontier where anything goes. Sometimes the blade is needed to properly shed light.”
“That is precisely the reputation that invokes the fear. People know that if they do not agree with a Consul Representative they will either be tricked into agreement or killed. That is not a way to win true friends and allies for a war against the Empire.”
“Our methods may not be agreeable to you but they are lenient compared to what the Empire does. When they move in a full battle force always accompanies. A force which would not hesitate before wiping a planet clean. Those that survive live meager existences which are no better than slaves. The lucky ones are forced to propel the Empire’s military force forward.”
“At least the Empire doesn’t rip a child from his parents.”
“One must learn our ways from when they are young. You know this,” Kumil said. “It is a small price to pay to ensure peace in the galaxy.”
“If their own little section of the galaxy was left standing,” Tahnel glared across the table.
“Now we come to the heart of the matter,” Kumil patted his former student on the arm. “My greatest student would be by my side if he knew his parents. You know that there was nothing that could have been done.”
Tahnel frowned. “How can I stay with the Consul? Their great wisdom and power was not able to protect my parents.”
“Come back to us,” Kumil pleaded. “You can help those like you. Protect families of new recruits until they are old enough to do so themselves. Give up your smuggling life. I can offer you rank high enough to provide you freedom. Your own ship and crew would provide protection to those that need it.”
“You make one tempting offer,” Tahnel said as he tossed his drink down his gullet. “Tell me more of what plans you have for me.”
Monday, January 25, 2010
Blocked
Blocked
By: James Dubeau
Fuck
Why can’t I think
Fuck
Why can’t I write
Fuck
Why don’t the words form
Fuck
Why doesn’t the ink flow
Fuck
Why don’t the keys type
Fuck
Why doesn’t the page fill
Fuck
Why don’t my characters move
Fuck
Why don’t they talk
Fuck
Why don’t they live
Fuck
Why can’t I write
Fuck
By: James Dubeau
Fuck
Why can’t I think
Fuck
Why can’t I write
Fuck
Why don’t the words form
Fuck
Why doesn’t the ink flow
Fuck
Why don’t the keys type
Fuck
Why doesn’t the page fill
Fuck
Why don’t my characters move
Fuck
Why don’t they talk
Fuck
Why don’t they live
Fuck
Why can’t I write
Fuck
Friday, January 22, 2010
Is This What Love Is
Is This What Love Is
By: James Dubeau
Is this what love is
When your heart
Soars out
But it cannot
Put it’s arms around
Those that you’re with
As they dance
And writhe
And drink
Hands can only go so far
Mind only allows so much
Like
Love
Hate
Jealously
All bounce around
As music floods
Bass beats
Bumping
Grinding
Hugging
Kissing
But none can be had
None can be felt
None can be held
I am alone
By: James Dubeau
Is this what love is
When your heart
Soars out
But it cannot
Put it’s arms around
Those that you’re with
As they dance
And writhe
And drink
Hands can only go so far
Mind only allows so much
Like
Love
Hate
Jealously
All bounce around
As music floods
Bass beats
Bumping
Grinding
Hugging
Kissing
But none can be had
None can be felt
None can be held
I am alone
Wednesday, January 20, 2010
Lagrangian Waltz - Episode 4
Lagrangian Waltz - Episode 4
By: James Dubeau
Start the adventure here
Previous episode here
Next episode here
“Explain yourselves.” Governor Beltran demanded of the two bound men before him. “Speak now or you will be shot, spies.”
“As I told your lovely assistant, we are not spies,” Sin flashed a bright white smile as deep crimson dripped from his shattered nose. The security guard’s rifle butt slammed against the pale man’s nose.
Pacing across the foyer, the old governor demanded, “Why did the Consul send you? What did Master Solda Kumil expect to gain from your presence in my home?”
Sin spat blood onto the marble floor. “Tell twinkle toes to cool his jets and maybe I’ll be able to clue you in on what’s what around here.”
The governor nodded and the rifle butt smashed against Sin’s face once more. The slender man collapsed to his knees. Governor Beltran turned to the large green individual before him. “You seem to know how to hold your tongue. Tell me why Master Kumil has sent you.”
“You are right on only one account,” Tahnel turned his hammerhead glairing at the governor with one of his eyes, “The Consul did instruct us to travel Naurchand. We were the ones that brought the shipment to this planet. Where you are wrong is on this fact, our involvement with the Consul ended with the delivery.”
“Just because my hair is gray does not mean that I have gone senile with age. Why did my men find you on the mansion grounds after? There is no excuse for you to be here. No excuse to be trespassing on these grounds. You two are either spies or thieves. It does not matter which, I just am curious before I have you shot for your transgressions. Just tell me what your mission here was and I’ll make sure your suffering is reduced.”
“That bastard owes me money,” Sin attempted to stand but the rifle butt slammed into his face once again. This time he collapsed to the floor, blood pooling.
“What my free spoken counterpart says is true,” Tahnel said. “We had hoped only to gain an audience with Master Kumil. There is no other motivation for our trespassing.”
“Suppose I believe you,” Governor Beltran said. “What do you suggest I do?”
“You could start by calling off your maid.” Sin’s words slurred, he didn’t pick his head off the floor. “She doesn’t know the first thing about interrogations.” For the first time since they met, the guard’s rifle did not find itself lodged in Sin’s face after words were spoken. This time the guard’s boot hammered into the pale being’s ribs. With a cough blood sprinkled across the floor.
Tahnel spoke calmly, his deep voice bellowed in the open foyer. “You are correct, there is no reason for you to believe us Governor. Our being on your mansion grounds does appear incriminating. I understand the position you are in and why you can’t take our word. All that I ask is for you to give us the benefit of the doubt before dispensing of us in unmarked graves. Give us a moment of your time. Let us converse about this situation. As a governor you deserve to be able to make an informed decision.”
“Walk with me,” the governor said.
“I’ll hold down the fort,” Sin mumbled. The guard’s boot thundered into the smuggler’s side once again. Rolling over, Sin lay on his back spread eagle. His eyes closed as a smile grew upon his lips. “Cool floor feels good.”
Governor Beltran and Tahnel walked side by side through the mansion. “Tell me exactly how you came to be on my premises. I want to know every detail of your currier mission.”
Tahnel spoke as they walked. “It is a simple tale. The Consul contacted us to deliver liberated Imperial supplies to Naurchand four. Our ship was loaded in Helegvreg and the only excitement was a small Imperial run-in in the Calenist system. This morning Master Solda Kumil acquired the cargo. My associate felt that we deserved additional reimbursement to cover repairs for our ship. Kumil convinced him otherwise back on the ship so we followed him here to ask once more.”
“If you wanted to speak with Master Kumil, why didn’t you wait for him to leave?” One of the governor’s eyebrows rose. “There was no excuse for you to break into my home.”
“There was no way of knowing how long he would remain here. We felt it was best to speak with him as soon as possible so that we could make repairs and leave this system as soon as possible.” Tahnel paused before adding, “The main gate guard would not tell us any information about Kumil, so we had to look for him ourselves.”
“What happened in the Calenist system? I believe there is a more direct route from Helegvreg that doesn’t involve going through that back end of space.”
Tahnel laughed. “A story as old as time itself. Smuggler can’t afford to pay for repairs. Loan shark pays for repairs. Smuggler pays off debt. Loan shark invites smuggler to a card game. Smuggler falls deeper in debt. Loan shark calls Empire for reward money. Smuggler’s ship gets shot up in the escape.”
Governor Beltran joined Tahnel in laughter. “Reminds me of day’s gone bye, back when I had a head full of black hair and a stomach full of guts and courage. I hate to admit it, but I see some of myself in your comrade’s defiance.” The pair found themselves in a library. Floor to ceiling wood bookcases filled the room. The familiar smell of musty old books reached their noses. “Do you work for the Consul often?”
Tahnel shook his large hammerhead, “Not any more than we work for the Empire or any other contractor. In times like these we find it best to not run allegiances too close to either faction. It is not good for business to be wrapped up in their war.”
“Naurchand has been lucky to stay out of their battles. At least she has been lucky so far, but it seems that times are changing.” The governor opened a large humidor, offering a cigar to Tahnel. “Something tells me that you two are more than just mere delivery boys.”
“We have been known to take on an odd job or two if one so happens to pop up.” Smoke rings ascended from Tahnel’s lips.
“About this business between us, I can forgive your trespassing if you take on one of those so called odd jobs for me.”
“We are in your debt,” Tahnel folded his arms.
The governor nodded. “Kumil kidnapped my son. I need you two to return him to me.”
By: James Dubeau
Start the adventure here
Previous episode here
Next episode here
“Explain yourselves.” Governor Beltran demanded of the two bound men before him. “Speak now or you will be shot, spies.”
“As I told your lovely assistant, we are not spies,” Sin flashed a bright white smile as deep crimson dripped from his shattered nose. The security guard’s rifle butt slammed against the pale man’s nose.
Pacing across the foyer, the old governor demanded, “Why did the Consul send you? What did Master Solda Kumil expect to gain from your presence in my home?”
Sin spat blood onto the marble floor. “Tell twinkle toes to cool his jets and maybe I’ll be able to clue you in on what’s what around here.”
The governor nodded and the rifle butt smashed against Sin’s face once more. The slender man collapsed to his knees. Governor Beltran turned to the large green individual before him. “You seem to know how to hold your tongue. Tell me why Master Kumil has sent you.”
“You are right on only one account,” Tahnel turned his hammerhead glairing at the governor with one of his eyes, “The Consul did instruct us to travel Naurchand. We were the ones that brought the shipment to this planet. Where you are wrong is on this fact, our involvement with the Consul ended with the delivery.”
“Just because my hair is gray does not mean that I have gone senile with age. Why did my men find you on the mansion grounds after? There is no excuse for you to be here. No excuse to be trespassing on these grounds. You two are either spies or thieves. It does not matter which, I just am curious before I have you shot for your transgressions. Just tell me what your mission here was and I’ll make sure your suffering is reduced.”
“That bastard owes me money,” Sin attempted to stand but the rifle butt slammed into his face once again. This time he collapsed to the floor, blood pooling.
“What my free spoken counterpart says is true,” Tahnel said. “We had hoped only to gain an audience with Master Kumil. There is no other motivation for our trespassing.”
“Suppose I believe you,” Governor Beltran said. “What do you suggest I do?”
“You could start by calling off your maid.” Sin’s words slurred, he didn’t pick his head off the floor. “She doesn’t know the first thing about interrogations.” For the first time since they met, the guard’s rifle did not find itself lodged in Sin’s face after words were spoken. This time the guard’s boot hammered into the pale being’s ribs. With a cough blood sprinkled across the floor.
Tahnel spoke calmly, his deep voice bellowed in the open foyer. “You are correct, there is no reason for you to believe us Governor. Our being on your mansion grounds does appear incriminating. I understand the position you are in and why you can’t take our word. All that I ask is for you to give us the benefit of the doubt before dispensing of us in unmarked graves. Give us a moment of your time. Let us converse about this situation. As a governor you deserve to be able to make an informed decision.”
“Walk with me,” the governor said.
“I’ll hold down the fort,” Sin mumbled. The guard’s boot thundered into the smuggler’s side once again. Rolling over, Sin lay on his back spread eagle. His eyes closed as a smile grew upon his lips. “Cool floor feels good.”
Governor Beltran and Tahnel walked side by side through the mansion. “Tell me exactly how you came to be on my premises. I want to know every detail of your currier mission.”
Tahnel spoke as they walked. “It is a simple tale. The Consul contacted us to deliver liberated Imperial supplies to Naurchand four. Our ship was loaded in Helegvreg and the only excitement was a small Imperial run-in in the Calenist system. This morning Master Solda Kumil acquired the cargo. My associate felt that we deserved additional reimbursement to cover repairs for our ship. Kumil convinced him otherwise back on the ship so we followed him here to ask once more.”
“If you wanted to speak with Master Kumil, why didn’t you wait for him to leave?” One of the governor’s eyebrows rose. “There was no excuse for you to break into my home.”
“There was no way of knowing how long he would remain here. We felt it was best to speak with him as soon as possible so that we could make repairs and leave this system as soon as possible.” Tahnel paused before adding, “The main gate guard would not tell us any information about Kumil, so we had to look for him ourselves.”
“What happened in the Calenist system? I believe there is a more direct route from Helegvreg that doesn’t involve going through that back end of space.”
Tahnel laughed. “A story as old as time itself. Smuggler can’t afford to pay for repairs. Loan shark pays for repairs. Smuggler pays off debt. Loan shark invites smuggler to a card game. Smuggler falls deeper in debt. Loan shark calls Empire for reward money. Smuggler’s ship gets shot up in the escape.”
Governor Beltran joined Tahnel in laughter. “Reminds me of day’s gone bye, back when I had a head full of black hair and a stomach full of guts and courage. I hate to admit it, but I see some of myself in your comrade’s defiance.” The pair found themselves in a library. Floor to ceiling wood bookcases filled the room. The familiar smell of musty old books reached their noses. “Do you work for the Consul often?”
Tahnel shook his large hammerhead, “Not any more than we work for the Empire or any other contractor. In times like these we find it best to not run allegiances too close to either faction. It is not good for business to be wrapped up in their war.”
“Naurchand has been lucky to stay out of their battles. At least she has been lucky so far, but it seems that times are changing.” The governor opened a large humidor, offering a cigar to Tahnel. “Something tells me that you two are more than just mere delivery boys.”
“We have been known to take on an odd job or two if one so happens to pop up.” Smoke rings ascended from Tahnel’s lips.
“About this business between us, I can forgive your trespassing if you take on one of those so called odd jobs for me.”
“We are in your debt,” Tahnel folded his arms.
The governor nodded. “Kumil kidnapped my son. I need you two to return him to me.”
Monday, January 18, 2010
What Is This Life
What Is This Life
By: James Dubeau
What is this life
That we are given
Only to have it
Taken away
In a blink
Of the eye
Fuck this world
And all these things
What made this
Such a shitty place
It is all just a lie
That we take for granted
A life
That we live
The only good thing
That I have to say
In this shitty world
Is that I get
One last chance
To say
Good bye
By: James Dubeau
What is this life
That we are given
Only to have it
Taken away
In a blink
Of the eye
Fuck this world
And all these things
What made this
Such a shitty place
It is all just a lie
That we take for granted
A life
That we live
The only good thing
That I have to say
In this shitty world
Is that I get
One last chance
To say
Good bye
Friday, January 15, 2010
Peacekeeper?
Peacekeeper?
By: James Dubeau
Do you really
Bring peace
When every move
Only instills fear
Why should you
Be considered a good guy
When all you do
Is strong arm those
Who do not obey
If anything
You deserve to be
Knocked down a peg
Or three
For all the injustices
That have been caused
By you
And those like you
By: James Dubeau
Do you really
Bring peace
When every move
Only instills fear
Why should you
Be considered a good guy
When all you do
Is strong arm those
Who do not obey
If anything
You deserve to be
Knocked down a peg
Or three
For all the injustices
That have been caused
By you
And those like you
Wednesday, January 13, 2010
Lagrangian Waltz - Episode 3
Lagrangian Waltz - Episode 3
By: James Dubeau
Start the adventure here
Previous episode here
Next episode here
Master Kumil’s truck pulled out of the starport as Sin and Tahnel rode their bikes through the Bolide’s cargo bay doors. The ship’s doors automatically locked up tight as the pair closed in on their escaping prey. Traffic was light that morning as the sun began to rise above the horizon.
The truck was waved through a security check gate in a high wall which surrounded a large mansion. A guard stood in the opening with his hand extended as Sin and Tahnel approached. Hanging from his belt was a large pistol. Two more guards sat in a shed adjoining the entrance.
“State your name and business,” the guard said as he peered over large mirrored glasses at the pair of riders.
“We are with Master Kumil,” Sin flashed a wide set of sparkling white teeth. “That truck isn’t going to unload it self. Or were you going to unload it for us?”
“You don’t look like you are here to work,” the guard eyed the large green shirtless individual on the bike next to Sin. “Even if you were here to work, you are with Master Kumil which means that you are with the Consul. The governor does not take kindly to the Consul, nor to the thugs that the Consul sends to our world.”
“By with Master Kumil, I meant that we were contracted by that low life to bring that shipment here.” Sin backpedaled, trying gain favor with the guard. “He shorted me payment on the shipment. I aim to collect, either from his wallet or from his hide.”
The guard shook his head. “That is a matter you can take up with Master Kumil once he leaves the mansion grounds. Your kind is not needed on the mansion grounds. Not to unload that truck. Not to make a disturbance with Master Kumil.”
“A disturbance will not be made by our admittance,” Tahnel said, waving his hand just like Master Kumil did back on the Bolide. “We will unload the truck and cause the Governor no harm or grief. Open the gate and allow admittance to the mansion grounds.”
“Don’t cause any trouble now,” the guard said with a smile as he stepped aside and raised the gate. The pair rode on through, looking for Master Kumil’s truck.
“Why didn’t you do that in the first place?” Sin asked his friend.
Tahnel smiled, “That is why you will never understand. One shall not use their powers for amusement or convenience, only when the proper situation calls for it. Overuse of that ability leads to misuse which leads down a very dark path.”
“Good thing that our need to get into the Govenor’s mansion is important enough,” Sin said with a wink.
“Not at all,” Tahnel shook his head, “but it was the lesser of two evils. Otherwise we would be looking for a place to hop the fence right now, and I don’t feel like getting nabbed and breaking and entering this morning.”
The truck was backing up to a loading dock on the rear of the mansion. Master Solda Kumil faced a well dressed man who was flanked by what appeared to be security guards. Sin and Tahnel ducked behind a corner and listened in on the two men’s conversation. The shouts were loud enough to be clearly heard.
“You kidnapped my son,” the well dressed man shouted. “I will not accept a payoff for him. He is not a commodity to be bought and sold, he is my son. I demand that you bring him back to me.”
“Please be calm and rational about this Governor Beltran,” Master Kumil waved his hand as he spoke. “Your son has joined the Consul us in our quest to bring the Imperium to its knees. His growing powers will bring great fame and power to your family and world. It has been prophesized that he will be a great man.”
The Governor’s face went beat red, his words rang out in a harsh staccato. “Damn the prophets. Damn the Consul. Damn the Empire. Most of all, damn you. Your kind may have sway in the rest of the galaxy, acting as a police force on the worlds that are not controlled by the Empire. Naurchand is not like the rest of the galaxy. You can not march in here and steal our children. Your arrogant actions make you no different than the Empire. At least their atrocities are more in the open, unlike your thieving kind.”
Master Kumil spoke calmly, once again waving his hand as he spoke. “The Consul protects your world from the Empire. Our aims are for a peaceful union of worlds outside of the tyrannical grasp of the Empire. Unfortunately the Emperor will not peacefully release the reigns of the Empire. Your son’s powers are strong. With proper training he will lead an army against the Empire and bring peace to the galaxy.”
“Bring me back my son,” Governor Beltran’s words echoed. “Bring him back to me or my army will bring him back along with your head on a platter.”
“These Imperial supplies will help your world and its antiquated ways,” Master Kumil nodded towards the trailer that had been detached from the truck. “With this equipment your people could make vast advances on your way of life. Maybe even become a contributing member of the Consul’s vision of a peaceful galaxy. Until that day Naurchand will be nothing but a backwater hole. A little nothing of a star system.”
“Take your blood money with you and get out of my sight. Bring back my son.” The security guards flanking the governor stepped forward. Master Solda Kumil hopped onto the truck and drove off, leaving the trailer behind.
“Kumil is not the best at making friends,” Sin said, ducking behind a bush as the truck drove by the hiding spot.
“Some days I wonder why I left the Consul’s clutches,” Tahnel’s voice trailed off.
“What do we have here?” a voice rang out from behind the pair. “Looks like a couple of spies were left behind. The governor will not be pleased about this.”
Sin and Tahnel slowly turned. Two of the mansion guards, armed with rifles, were standing right behind the pair. “We aren’t spies,” Sin pleaded.
A sharp crack echoed as one of the guard’s rifle butts slammed into Sin’s jaw, knocking the slender man to the ground. “Spies are taken out to the middle of a field and shot. Now get moving.”
By: James Dubeau
Start the adventure here
Previous episode here
Next episode here
Master Kumil’s truck pulled out of the starport as Sin and Tahnel rode their bikes through the Bolide’s cargo bay doors. The ship’s doors automatically locked up tight as the pair closed in on their escaping prey. Traffic was light that morning as the sun began to rise above the horizon.
The truck was waved through a security check gate in a high wall which surrounded a large mansion. A guard stood in the opening with his hand extended as Sin and Tahnel approached. Hanging from his belt was a large pistol. Two more guards sat in a shed adjoining the entrance.
“State your name and business,” the guard said as he peered over large mirrored glasses at the pair of riders.
“We are with Master Kumil,” Sin flashed a wide set of sparkling white teeth. “That truck isn’t going to unload it self. Or were you going to unload it for us?”
“You don’t look like you are here to work,” the guard eyed the large green shirtless individual on the bike next to Sin. “Even if you were here to work, you are with Master Kumil which means that you are with the Consul. The governor does not take kindly to the Consul, nor to the thugs that the Consul sends to our world.”
“By with Master Kumil, I meant that we were contracted by that low life to bring that shipment here.” Sin backpedaled, trying gain favor with the guard. “He shorted me payment on the shipment. I aim to collect, either from his wallet or from his hide.”
The guard shook his head. “That is a matter you can take up with Master Kumil once he leaves the mansion grounds. Your kind is not needed on the mansion grounds. Not to unload that truck. Not to make a disturbance with Master Kumil.”
“A disturbance will not be made by our admittance,” Tahnel said, waving his hand just like Master Kumil did back on the Bolide. “We will unload the truck and cause the Governor no harm or grief. Open the gate and allow admittance to the mansion grounds.”
“Don’t cause any trouble now,” the guard said with a smile as he stepped aside and raised the gate. The pair rode on through, looking for Master Kumil’s truck.
“Why didn’t you do that in the first place?” Sin asked his friend.
Tahnel smiled, “That is why you will never understand. One shall not use their powers for amusement or convenience, only when the proper situation calls for it. Overuse of that ability leads to misuse which leads down a very dark path.”
“Good thing that our need to get into the Govenor’s mansion is important enough,” Sin said with a wink.
“Not at all,” Tahnel shook his head, “but it was the lesser of two evils. Otherwise we would be looking for a place to hop the fence right now, and I don’t feel like getting nabbed and breaking and entering this morning.”
The truck was backing up to a loading dock on the rear of the mansion. Master Solda Kumil faced a well dressed man who was flanked by what appeared to be security guards. Sin and Tahnel ducked behind a corner and listened in on the two men’s conversation. The shouts were loud enough to be clearly heard.
“You kidnapped my son,” the well dressed man shouted. “I will not accept a payoff for him. He is not a commodity to be bought and sold, he is my son. I demand that you bring him back to me.”
“Please be calm and rational about this Governor Beltran,” Master Kumil waved his hand as he spoke. “Your son has joined the Consul us in our quest to bring the Imperium to its knees. His growing powers will bring great fame and power to your family and world. It has been prophesized that he will be a great man.”
The Governor’s face went beat red, his words rang out in a harsh staccato. “Damn the prophets. Damn the Consul. Damn the Empire. Most of all, damn you. Your kind may have sway in the rest of the galaxy, acting as a police force on the worlds that are not controlled by the Empire. Naurchand is not like the rest of the galaxy. You can not march in here and steal our children. Your arrogant actions make you no different than the Empire. At least their atrocities are more in the open, unlike your thieving kind.”
Master Kumil spoke calmly, once again waving his hand as he spoke. “The Consul protects your world from the Empire. Our aims are for a peaceful union of worlds outside of the tyrannical grasp of the Empire. Unfortunately the Emperor will not peacefully release the reigns of the Empire. Your son’s powers are strong. With proper training he will lead an army against the Empire and bring peace to the galaxy.”
“Bring me back my son,” Governor Beltran’s words echoed. “Bring him back to me or my army will bring him back along with your head on a platter.”
“These Imperial supplies will help your world and its antiquated ways,” Master Kumil nodded towards the trailer that had been detached from the truck. “With this equipment your people could make vast advances on your way of life. Maybe even become a contributing member of the Consul’s vision of a peaceful galaxy. Until that day Naurchand will be nothing but a backwater hole. A little nothing of a star system.”
“Take your blood money with you and get out of my sight. Bring back my son.” The security guards flanking the governor stepped forward. Master Solda Kumil hopped onto the truck and drove off, leaving the trailer behind.
“Kumil is not the best at making friends,” Sin said, ducking behind a bush as the truck drove by the hiding spot.
“Some days I wonder why I left the Consul’s clutches,” Tahnel’s voice trailed off.
“What do we have here?” a voice rang out from behind the pair. “Looks like a couple of spies were left behind. The governor will not be pleased about this.”
Sin and Tahnel slowly turned. Two of the mansion guards, armed with rifles, were standing right behind the pair. “We aren’t spies,” Sin pleaded.
A sharp crack echoed as one of the guard’s rifle butts slammed into Sin’s jaw, knocking the slender man to the ground. “Spies are taken out to the middle of a field and shot. Now get moving.”
Monday, January 11, 2010
A Moment To Vent
A Moment To Vent
By: James Dubeau
Fucking people need to go
They need to sod off and die
There is no need to shoot my car
Breaking the driver side window
Just because you are bored
Should not be a reason to egg my car
Nor because your drunk ass
Doesn’t know how to drive
Or pay attention to the road
Give you an excuse
To rear end my car
Smashing the bumper to bits
Why does the general public
Only agree on one thing
Which is that I cannot
Have nice things
My car must be battered
Beaten
Shot
And disgraced
Until the semblance of a nice thing
Has gone away
But I give a fair warning
To the general public out there
Hell will be paid
If anyone is ever caught
Fucking with my car
By: James Dubeau
Fucking people need to go
They need to sod off and die
There is no need to shoot my car
Breaking the driver side window
Just because you are bored
Should not be a reason to egg my car
Nor because your drunk ass
Doesn’t know how to drive
Or pay attention to the road
Give you an excuse
To rear end my car
Smashing the bumper to bits
Why does the general public
Only agree on one thing
Which is that I cannot
Have nice things
My car must be battered
Beaten
Shot
And disgraced
Until the semblance of a nice thing
Has gone away
But I give a fair warning
To the general public out there
Hell will be paid
If anyone is ever caught
Fucking with my car
Friday, January 08, 2010
In My Pockets
In My Pockets
By: James Dubeau
Faux leather money clip
Wrinkled dollar bill attached
Credit card
Debit card
Drink card
Business card
VIP card
Employee card
Ice cream card
Drivers License
And old lotto ticket
All stuffed inside
Crumpled memo book
With pages torn out
Remaining pages are covered
In black chicken scratches
Mental notes
Half hearted poetry
Story outlines
Black pen
Red pen
Mechanical pencil
With a busted off clip
Work schedule folded in half
And in half again
Silver box knife
Has yet to slice the pocket
Some day soon it shall happen
Work truck key
On a fob
Personal car key
On another
Dangling with
House key
Work key
Deadbolt key
Office key
Safe key
Gas key
Nineteen-ninety-six
Shiny copper penny
Tube of Chap Stick
For these snowy days
And a cellular phone
Cracked
Scratched
Dented
And
Dinged
By: James Dubeau
Faux leather money clip
Wrinkled dollar bill attached
Credit card
Debit card
Drink card
Business card
VIP card
Employee card
Ice cream card
Drivers License
And old lotto ticket
All stuffed inside
Crumpled memo book
With pages torn out
Remaining pages are covered
In black chicken scratches
Mental notes
Half hearted poetry
Story outlines
Black pen
Red pen
Mechanical pencil
With a busted off clip
Work schedule folded in half
And in half again
Silver box knife
Has yet to slice the pocket
Some day soon it shall happen
Work truck key
On a fob
Personal car key
On another
Dangling with
House key
Work key
Deadbolt key
Office key
Safe key
Gas key
Nineteen-ninety-six
Shiny copper penny
Tube of Chap Stick
For these snowy days
And a cellular phone
Cracked
Scratched
Dented
And
Dinged
Wednesday, January 06, 2010
Lagrangian Waltz - Episode 2
Lagrangian Waltz - Episode 2
By: James Dubeau
Start the adventure here
Next episode here
Smoke filled the cockpit as stars streaked by. A cacophony of blaring klaxons reverberated off the metal walls. Control console warning lights flashed in a hypnotic array. No two flared at the same tempo.
“Damn this ship. Damn those Imperials. Damn it all.” Sin brought his fist hammering down on alarm override. The sound of flesh against metal echoed through the silent craft, accompanied only by crackling fires and melting wires hidden behind control panels.
“Our destiny’s path has spoken and we have followed,” Tahnel turned his head, glaring at the pilot with his left eye. The green creature hosed down a smoking control panel with a fire extinguisher. “Damage to the ship is not severe enough for the fates to demand our blood be boiled away as our lifeless corpses float through space. Shall we see if we can repair this bucket of bolts enough to continue our journey to Naurchand four?”
Sin hammered his fist into the dash. “Computer claims that most systems have been damaged, but the vitals are operational. At least they still are for now. Don’t want to risk running engines any hotter than we are running now. At our current velocity we should be able to maintain schedule.”
“The way has been decided. It was not fortuitous that the Counsel contracted us. They were right to believe in our abilities.” Tahnel removed the panel, hosing down the hidden components once more.
“Screw the Counsel. They better pay extra for the Imperial heat this cargo brought down upon us. I fear to see what my baby’s scorched hull looks like.”
“Never saw the wisdom in a light freighter named after a large meteor,” Tahnel lumbered down the hall towards the engines compartment, “a large meteor that explodes.”
“Bolide is a fine name,” Sin shouted after his friend. “It’s a name that favors the bold. The guy that I won this hunk of junk off of said so.”
Bolide stumbled through hyperspace over the next few days. Fires were put out, burnt wires and fried circuit boards were replaced, and tape held together anything a bolt would not. The pair worked tirelessly as the computers guided them through space. A second thought was not spent on the Imperials they left behind, it was virtually impossible to track a ship once it enters hyperspace.
On the fifth day the Bolide fell out of hyperspace, a star system with twelve glistening orbs lay before them. The fourth orb glowed in brilliant blues and greens, few lights twinkled on the dark side of the planet. Lighting up the night sky, the ship fell through the atmosphere.
A small spaceport on the side of town welcomed them. Scattered across the handful of landing pads were a few ships. Only a single attendant was on duty that star filled night. Wearily Sin paid the attendant docking fees and retired to the craft. Finding the shipment’s contact would have to wait until morning.
Pounding rattled through the ship as the first streams of light poured through the cockpit windshield. Pistol in hand, Sin stumbled to the airlock. “What do ya want?” he grumbled through the door.
“Open up,” an elderly sounding male voice rang through the door.
Sin shook his head, “This door doesn’t open for just anyone. Who are you?”
“Open this door. Your cargo is mine,” the voice demanded.
“This door doesn’t open for just anyone who claims to own my cargo. Prove to me that my cargo is yours?”
“The rest of your payment is in my hands.”
The airlock door slid open to revel an older man in dull brown robes with a gray beard. “Why didn’t you say so in the first place?” Sin said with a bright smile.
“Why do you people have to make things so difficult?” the old man sighed. “Show me to the cargo. I must verify that it has all made it here in one piece.”
Sin leaned against a wall, rested his foot on the other side. His leg blocked the narrow corridor. “Before I allow you onto my ship, may I have the pleasure of knowing your name?”
“Master Solda Kumil,” a bare chested Tahnel exclaimed behind Sin. “If I had known you were the Counsel’s representative on Naurchand I would have taken the time to dress. It has been too long. How has the Counsel been treating you these dark days?”
“It is unexpected to see one of my former students on such a ship,” Master Kumil said as he pushed past Sin. “I’m sure there is a story as to how you have found yourself in such company, but that is for another time. As for now I must have that cargo. We have been waiting for its arrival for quite some time now.”
“I went through quite a bit to get here,” Sin said as he led the old human to the cargo hold. “Ship’s gonna need quite a bit of repairs. Could use a little extra to cover the expenses and troubles it took in getting here. Shouldn’t be to much of a strain on the Counsel’s coffers.”
“The agreed upon amount is sufficient,” Master Kumil said, waving his fingers. “There is no need for additional compensation.”
“You are right. Bolide is sturdy, there is no reason for further imbursement when repairs are so manageable,” Sin patted a bulkhead as they entered the hold. “Here is the cargo. I’m sure you’ll find everything is in order. These crates have not been touched since we left port.”
Master Kumil closed his eyes. “Correct. These supplies have seen a safe, if not elongated, voyage. Open the hatch for my crew to unload the cargo.”
“Sure thing,” Sin smiled, “as soon as I receive payment.” The smuggler reminded the old man of the pistol in his hand.
“Oh yes, of course. I had nearly forgotten.” The old man fished through his pockets and handed Sin a credstick.
A team of men jumped onto the ship as the hold’s doors lowered. Quietly and efficiently they emptied the crates onto a waiting truck. Within minutes Sin and Tahnel were left standing in the empty chamber.
Sin yawned, “My bunk is looking pretty good right now. Those repairs can wait for a more reasonable hour of the day.”
“Can’t believe you let him have his way with you,” Tahnel shook his head.
“What? He paid us what we were contracted.”
“Every other time we ran into Imperial trouble you held out for a bigger payday. He used the easiest trick in the book and you couldn’t see through it.” Tahnel waved his fingers as Master Kumil had done.
“Why that dirty rat,” Sin cursed. “Member of the Counsel or not, we need to settle the score. Nobody can use such tricks on old Sin here and get away with it.”
By: James Dubeau
Start the adventure here
Next episode here
Smoke filled the cockpit as stars streaked by. A cacophony of blaring klaxons reverberated off the metal walls. Control console warning lights flashed in a hypnotic array. No two flared at the same tempo.
“Damn this ship. Damn those Imperials. Damn it all.” Sin brought his fist hammering down on alarm override. The sound of flesh against metal echoed through the silent craft, accompanied only by crackling fires and melting wires hidden behind control panels.
“Our destiny’s path has spoken and we have followed,” Tahnel turned his head, glaring at the pilot with his left eye. The green creature hosed down a smoking control panel with a fire extinguisher. “Damage to the ship is not severe enough for the fates to demand our blood be boiled away as our lifeless corpses float through space. Shall we see if we can repair this bucket of bolts enough to continue our journey to Naurchand four?”
Sin hammered his fist into the dash. “Computer claims that most systems have been damaged, but the vitals are operational. At least they still are for now. Don’t want to risk running engines any hotter than we are running now. At our current velocity we should be able to maintain schedule.”
“The way has been decided. It was not fortuitous that the Counsel contracted us. They were right to believe in our abilities.” Tahnel removed the panel, hosing down the hidden components once more.
“Screw the Counsel. They better pay extra for the Imperial heat this cargo brought down upon us. I fear to see what my baby’s scorched hull looks like.”
“Never saw the wisdom in a light freighter named after a large meteor,” Tahnel lumbered down the hall towards the engines compartment, “a large meteor that explodes.”
“Bolide is a fine name,” Sin shouted after his friend. “It’s a name that favors the bold. The guy that I won this hunk of junk off of said so.”
Bolide stumbled through hyperspace over the next few days. Fires were put out, burnt wires and fried circuit boards were replaced, and tape held together anything a bolt would not. The pair worked tirelessly as the computers guided them through space. A second thought was not spent on the Imperials they left behind, it was virtually impossible to track a ship once it enters hyperspace.
On the fifth day the Bolide fell out of hyperspace, a star system with twelve glistening orbs lay before them. The fourth orb glowed in brilliant blues and greens, few lights twinkled on the dark side of the planet. Lighting up the night sky, the ship fell through the atmosphere.
A small spaceport on the side of town welcomed them. Scattered across the handful of landing pads were a few ships. Only a single attendant was on duty that star filled night. Wearily Sin paid the attendant docking fees and retired to the craft. Finding the shipment’s contact would have to wait until morning.
Pounding rattled through the ship as the first streams of light poured through the cockpit windshield. Pistol in hand, Sin stumbled to the airlock. “What do ya want?” he grumbled through the door.
“Open up,” an elderly sounding male voice rang through the door.
Sin shook his head, “This door doesn’t open for just anyone. Who are you?”
“Open this door. Your cargo is mine,” the voice demanded.
“This door doesn’t open for just anyone who claims to own my cargo. Prove to me that my cargo is yours?”
“The rest of your payment is in my hands.”
The airlock door slid open to revel an older man in dull brown robes with a gray beard. “Why didn’t you say so in the first place?” Sin said with a bright smile.
“Why do you people have to make things so difficult?” the old man sighed. “Show me to the cargo. I must verify that it has all made it here in one piece.”
Sin leaned against a wall, rested his foot on the other side. His leg blocked the narrow corridor. “Before I allow you onto my ship, may I have the pleasure of knowing your name?”
“Master Solda Kumil,” a bare chested Tahnel exclaimed behind Sin. “If I had known you were the Counsel’s representative on Naurchand I would have taken the time to dress. It has been too long. How has the Counsel been treating you these dark days?”
“It is unexpected to see one of my former students on such a ship,” Master Kumil said as he pushed past Sin. “I’m sure there is a story as to how you have found yourself in such company, but that is for another time. As for now I must have that cargo. We have been waiting for its arrival for quite some time now.”
“I went through quite a bit to get here,” Sin said as he led the old human to the cargo hold. “Ship’s gonna need quite a bit of repairs. Could use a little extra to cover the expenses and troubles it took in getting here. Shouldn’t be to much of a strain on the Counsel’s coffers.”
“The agreed upon amount is sufficient,” Master Kumil said, waving his fingers. “There is no need for additional compensation.”
“You are right. Bolide is sturdy, there is no reason for further imbursement when repairs are so manageable,” Sin patted a bulkhead as they entered the hold. “Here is the cargo. I’m sure you’ll find everything is in order. These crates have not been touched since we left port.”
Master Kumil closed his eyes. “Correct. These supplies have seen a safe, if not elongated, voyage. Open the hatch for my crew to unload the cargo.”
“Sure thing,” Sin smiled, “as soon as I receive payment.” The smuggler reminded the old man of the pistol in his hand.
“Oh yes, of course. I had nearly forgotten.” The old man fished through his pockets and handed Sin a credstick.
A team of men jumped onto the ship as the hold’s doors lowered. Quietly and efficiently they emptied the crates onto a waiting truck. Within minutes Sin and Tahnel were left standing in the empty chamber.
Sin yawned, “My bunk is looking pretty good right now. Those repairs can wait for a more reasonable hour of the day.”
“Can’t believe you let him have his way with you,” Tahnel shook his head.
“What? He paid us what we were contracted.”
“Every other time we ran into Imperial trouble you held out for a bigger payday. He used the easiest trick in the book and you couldn’t see through it.” Tahnel waved his fingers as Master Kumil had done.
“Why that dirty rat,” Sin cursed. “Member of the Counsel or not, we need to settle the score. Nobody can use such tricks on old Sin here and get away with it.”
Monday, January 04, 2010
There Is
There Is
By James Dubeau
There is something more
Something more awaits me
Awaits me from beyond
From beyond the horizon
The horizon concealed secrets
Concealed secrets cannot be grasped
Cannot be grasped in my hands
In my hands there is nothing
There is nothing to fill my soul
To fill my soul would be necessary
Would be necessary to succeed
To succeed there is
By James Dubeau
There is something more
Something more awaits me
Awaits me from beyond
From beyond the horizon
The horizon concealed secrets
Concealed secrets cannot be grasped
Cannot be grasped in my hands
In my hands there is nothing
There is nothing to fill my soul
To fill my soul would be necessary
Would be necessary to succeed
To succeed there is
Friday, January 01, 2010
Tired
Tired
By: James Dubeau
Tired in the morning
Tired at night
Tired at the mid day meal
Tired all the time
Tired when the alarm rings
Tired when snooze hits
Tired as I crawl out of bed
Tired driving to work
Tired as fingers grace the keys
Tired as the mouse slides about
Tired on the drive home
Tired while watching TV
Tired while writing lines
Tired while revising
Tired when going to bed
Tired
Tired
Tired
Why can’t I sleep
By: James Dubeau
Tired in the morning
Tired at night
Tired at the mid day meal
Tired all the time
Tired when the alarm rings
Tired when snooze hits
Tired as I crawl out of bed
Tired driving to work
Tired as fingers grace the keys
Tired as the mouse slides about
Tired on the drive home
Tired while watching TV
Tired while writing lines
Tired while revising
Tired when going to bed
Tired
Tired
Tired
Why can’t I sleep
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