Thursday, September 18, 2008

Sex Ed with Mistress Cynnara- Orgasms Pt.2- Hello Vaginaland

This week, we're talking about Orgasms-- this time going deep into the heart of Vaginaland. There are a few things to discuss when it comes to vaginal orgasms. Some women never experience them, while others are blessed with the ability to come multiple amount of times with that penetration.

What causes vaginal orgasms? There are a lot of studies, myths, and ideas associated with them. In fact, there was a study that showed that a woman's gait could be associated with vaginal orgasm. Many people talk about the G-spot orgasm and how potent it is. Yet, some women never seem to get that spot touched, no matter how long, how thick or how much pressure is put on those areas that people say it exists. Now scientists even talk about how not all women have G-spots(Grafenburg Spot). In fact, there is even physical evidence that the thicker tissue with those nerve bundles that help achieve those orgasms--do not exist in all women. In fact, it's said that almost 20-25% of all women have vaginal orgasms, the rest either climax through clitoral or do not experience orgasmic release at all.

So let's talk about Vaginaland. Come with me. Last week, we spoke about clitoral orgasms and the outer layout of the female genitalia. This week, we're going to explore about this much penetrated but misunderstood land of femaleness. So, let's take a look at how the inner workings of a woman work, and how to take advantage of certain things to come closer to experiencing vaginal orgasms.

Inner female workings

First, let's talk about the vulva, which include the labia lips. We remember that the clitoris does actually have legs which lead down to the outer labia lips, which are part of the vulva and as they're stimulated, they swell, evoking more sexual response. So, it's extremely important in both clitoral and vaginal orgasms to have stimulated this area in the proper manner.

Second, we come upon the entrance of the vagina, you'll notice that it is composed of stretchable muscles. (We who have given birth are grateful for this aspect, otherwise there would be no humans on this earth ever again!) But once you slide a finger in there, make sure that the pad of your fingertip is facing up-- towards the belly button. Now about 2-3 inches inside, along that area of the vaginal wall, you might feel a slightly thicker muscle that might be a bit bumpy. This is where you'll find the G-spot in most women who have one. Some have it higher, but most have it at that point. This tissue actually can cause female ejaculation with clear fluid similar to the prostrate fluid that composes semen in men.

Interesting side note- the tissue surrounding the prostate is similar in nature to the spongy tissue that separates the vaginal wall from the urethra area and responds in kind. So, stimulation will increase bloodflow, which in turn, will allow further pleasure to be experienced for the female. What does this mean for the person who is willing to take the time? It means by increasing pleasure to the outer vulva and along the G-spot area, will more likely to help a woman to experience a vaginal orgasm.

One thing I want to point out, there are many women from the past and even today who will tell you that there is no such thing as a vaginal orgasm. That it's the pressure against the clitoris that causes the vaginal spasms of orgasm. I disagree with that because I've been pleasured without clitoral stimulus, just vaginal penetration and have managed to enjoy multiple orgasms.

Now that we've discussed about the physicality of the vagina, how do we go about experiencing climaxes via vaginal stimulation? Just as we did in the last week's blog, we have to build up the sexual tension and the need within the woman. Not just actions, but also in the verbal stimulus. Women don't just come from physicality, they also require the mental erotic massage so that their body follows the mind.

I recommend starting with the same technique as the clitoral. In fact, by stimulating the clitoris, you'll swell the tissue in both the clitoris, the labia, which in turn stimulates the G Spot. So, play with her, lick her, rub her, and more importantly, take the time to whisper sweet, sensual nothings to her while you touch her body.

As she gets aroused, you'll see her lips puff up, her slit will become wet, and more importantly, her body will begin moving, trying to guide you to what feels good. Let her show you how much pressure, when to ease off, and what movements get her going. Once this begins, the next step is to slide one finger, usually the middle finger, deep within her.

Why are we going into finger fucking first? Because many times, you can prepare a woman for sexual intercourse by allowing her time to adjust to being stroked on those erogenous zones. Slide in the middle finger, pad upwards towards her bladder. Slightly curl it as you pull it back down, rubbing against that upper vaginal wall. This rubbing and pressure will help excite her further. Create a rhythm that she can work with, rocking her hips in time with your finger, then slowly slide in another and after a while, perhaps a third. Use the slightly curved fingers to stroke the upper wall. As you do this, you might want to place your head on her belly, which will provide downward pressure and your mouth can lick and tease the clit area, if she wishes.

This will help her to experience the intensity of having her G-spot stroked, fondled with both slow and fast, intense speeds. She might begin asking for more, deeper, harder or tell you the fingers aren't enough-- that she needs more-- she needs something bigger inside. This is the call of the moment- some men want to insert dick at this point, others prefer using a dildo or vibrator, giving even more sensation to the moment.

The idea here is to build up the need to have something more. The idea that it's empty in her vagina and she needs to be filled to scratch that itchy desire that you're building up within her. You can even vary up various ideas. Start with some finger fucking, then perhaps some oral play, then bring in a toy, then perhaps tease her with some warming liquid (I highly recommend the ones at Adam and Eve, I've yet to find one that I didn't like!), and proceed as she guides you. Remember, the important thing is to see her reactions-- what makes her grip the sheets, what makes her try to move to get to a certain area penetrated and pressed upon? Noticing these subtle clues will help you and will help her experience vaginal orgasm.

I will be honest here-- I recommend doing both clitoral and vaginal techniques with every woman- whether or not they can have vaginal orgasms. Why? Because the sensation is filling and mentally does much to make a woman feel wanted, loved and sexy as hell. When I have helped friends in dealing with a clitoral only woman, I've showed them that by varying up both the vaginal techniques as well as the clitoral has a positive effect, especially as it gives the woman extra stimulus and creates greater sensation to induce orgasms. I come either way- and I'm proud of that. I'm lucky as well. Not every woman can orgasm easily. Again, make sure to talk to your doctor about this-- it could be hormonal, physical and fixable!

Now that we've discussed clitoral and vaginal-- what else is there to deal with orgasms? Next week-- Orgasms of the Male Kind!

Until then, dream hot, work on being the best lover you can be for yourself and others, and reach for your goals- you can do it!

Always,

Mistress Cynnara (continue reading &aquo;)

Saturday, September 13, 2008

Friday Flash- Goddess Creation

This came about because of Changeling Bar and Press night. Not sure where it's going, or what will come of it, but part of me is intrigued. *grins* Think of a world, part of a conglomeration-- and where entropy is prevalent and the world they know is dying. Prophecy states of a woman called She Who Walks the Worlds that would save their universe--but there's a catch-- she needs the one mate that can help her harness her power, submit to her-- and force her to submit to the male force of creation as well. Enjoy!

Thursday, September 11, 2008

Thursday, September 04, 2008

Sex Ed With Mistress Cynnara: Anal Play

Welcome to the second installment of "Ask Mistress Cynnara" where I talk sex, how to do it well, how to learn more, and some of the things you can do with and without a partner. If you wish to ask me a question to answer each week, please feel free to email me at cynnara AT cynnara DOT com (you know the drill). This week's question is about anal play.

Mistress Cynnara, lately anal play has been getting more mentions, but no one talks about how to do it correctly. The last time my SO tried it on me, it hurt too much for me to enjoy. What aren't we doing right? --Anally Scared

Tuesday, September 02, 2008

Pagan: Elements-- Earth

(continue reading &aquo;)

Personal: Birthday

I hope everyone had a happy Labour Day. Not only was it a US holiday, it was also my birthday. I managed to sleep in, do a personal magick ritual for myself, and my male brought me to his place for the day. *grins* He cooked for me, cleaned, and then took me out for my walk. I've not told him yet about my left heel being a bother(I know what it is, but the description defies me right now--it's a little piece of calcium that keeps hooking onto the muscle, causing pain when I flex my foot.)

This was also my first birthday without mom. It was tougher than I thought it'd be. Of course, my dad didn't call either, but then again, I hadn't expected him to. Mom and I had a unique way of celebrating my birthday at various times. Whenever I turned an age with a -0 or a -5 at the end, she'd call me when I was born (4:34am) and remind me of what she'd been through. Whenever my birthday landed on Labour Day (Which was the day I was born on), she'd call and harass me as well. It was our thing, since our birthdays were only 8 days apart. So, this year was a bit lonely without that teasing phone call. I do miss my mom badly. The longer it's been, the more I realize how much I miss her in my life.

But mom wouldn't want me to dwell on that aspect. So, I've celebrated and figured that in the scheme of things, my birthday, and the day off afterward(YAY for another day off!) definitely goes into a good day for all, thinking. I know I missed my Pagan post, but I'll be putting that one up shortly.

 

  (continue reading &aquo;)

Friday, August 29, 2008

Friday Flash- Nik's Playtime

Nikita glanced at Rand's naked back. Though she'd won the bet, part of her wish she hadn't even accepted it. But Sekhmet had told her that she would win. This time, Lyonene, high priestess of Sekhmet, would not be forced to beg for release- she would demand it.

"Once you're done taking off your clothes, Rand, I want you to kneel with your head bowed, arms behind your back in a submissive position." Nik opened up her play closet, allowing her gaze to go from each toy, mentally discarding the ones that she thought Rand wouldn't enjoy. Choosing her favourite black, silver, and purple flogger with a mix of suede and rabbit tails, Nik did some figure eight moves in the air before her. This will be good for Rand. I think he'll find this heightens his need in ways he hadn't considered.

Turning back towards Rand, she noticed he had followed her directions, kneeling at the foot of her bed, his head bent and his arms positioned perfectly behind him. She walked towards him, stopping just shy of his face. "Good boy, Rand. Last time we had a sex oriented bet, you won. That night I was your sex slave and you pushed boundaries that you had no right to push. It was to be a fun time for us both- no strings attached."

"I'm--"

She flicked the flogger so the ends hit his back solidly. "I didn't give you permission to speak, Rand. Tonight, I'm the mistress and you're my submissive. You wondered about my sexual desires and my fantasies, but never once asked me that night what I wanted or needed. You chose to push me emotionally and for that, I have avoided you." Nik's hand moved with her words, sending light strokes against his back in a figure eight pattern. "But tonight, you'll learn about my sexual needs and you'll bare your soul to me. Paybacks are a bitch and we know I do bitch well."

She continued watching Rand's reaction to the flogging, making sure she covered his back from his broad, muscular shoulders down to the crack of his ass. When she heard the first sound that sounded like a cross between a moan and pain, she spoke again. "If you can't handle what I'm doing, the safe word is red. If something isn't comfortable but you're not sure if you want to completely stop, say yellow. If you're okay, then the answer is green. Understand?"

"Yes, Nik."

"That's Mistress Nik, Rand." She stopped while she ran one hand down his lightly pink skin. His body shuddered causing her to smile. Seems that I've discovered something that Rand hadn't realized about himself. Good for me.

"Yes, Mistress."

She slid one hand under his chin and tilted his head up so their gazes met. "I won't hurt you, Rand, but I will make you experience pleasure in a way I doubt any woman has ever shown you. I want you to stand by that X shaped piece of furniture, your back against it."

Rand stood up, his gaze never wavering. One hand stroked his cock and Nik slapped his hand. "Bad boy! That's my dick and you don't get to touch it unless I say so. Now do as I said."

"Yes, Mistress." Rand walked towards the St. Andrews cross and Nik wondered if somehow this might backfire on her. Seeing him submit to her will, even under the guise of the bet, turned her on more than she imagined. Damn, I hope he can still fuck my brains out once I'm done teaching him a lesson. Sekhmet, I leave tonight in your care and keeping. (continue reading &aquo;)

Wednesday, August 27, 2008

Sex Ed with Mistress Cynnara

This summary is not available. Please click here to view the post.

Tuesday, August 26, 2008

Pagan: Recipe- Apple Butter

I love making apple butter, even though it takes a long time to make. I also have a crock pot version I'll post later too. But here's the recipe my gramps followed for years with his slight modifications. *grins* You're lucky-- I don't change the recipes as he did when he gave them to others. LOL

6 pounds of tart or lightly sweet apples, unpeeled, cored, and sliced 
1 1/2 cups apple cider vinegar

2 cups firmly packed light brown sugar
2 strips of lemon zest, each 2 1/2 inches long
1 tablespoon cinnamon
1 teaspoon ground allspice
1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
1/2 teaspoon salt


and 1 cup of water

 

In a large saucepan cook the apples in the cider over moderate heat, stirring occasionally, for 30 minutes, or until tender. Puree them through the medium disk of a food mill into another saucepan and add the remaining ingredients.

Cook the mixture over very low heat, stirring occasionally, for 2 1/2 to 3 hours, or until very thick. Discard the lemon zest and spoon the mixture into 2 sterilized 1-pint Mason-type jars, filling them to within 1/2-inch of the top. Wipe the rims with a dampened cloth and seal the jars with the lids.

Put the jars in a water bath canner or a rack in a deep kettle and add enough water to cover the jars by 2 inches. Bring to a boil and process, covered, for 10 minutes. Transfer the jars with canning tongs to a rack and let them cool. Let the apple butter mellow in a cool, dark place for at least 1 week. (continue reading &aquo;)

Wednesday, August 13, 2008

Personal: Heartache

Yesterday, my male and I broke up. Right now, I'm feeling empty and the heartache won't go away. I've spent the day today making my doctor appointments, joining the Incredible Shrinking Authors, and sleeping. I've slept over 8 hours today, not including the passing out last night from the pain.

What hurts most- I've never had this with any other person I've ever dated. I was truly happy. I mean that. Happy. Content, and for the first time in my life-- in love. I miss him terribly and I have to really work at not picking up the phone right now. Really hard. It's something I've done for almost a year-- calling him nightly to talk. But he says he's not in love with me, not like I am with him. He says it's not fair for me to not have that totality. Yet, he's given me more love, encouragement, and healing than anyone. I miss him and honestly, he's the only person in this world I'd ever fight to keep.

So, why am I hiding in my home? Why am I not facing anything or anyone? Because the emptiness is so far vast now he's gone. It's funny, I took for granted that he had this place in my heart. And now he's gone, I realized-- he was my heart. He was more than just heartmate. And I somehow, failed him. One day, he might forgive me. Maybe. (continue reading &aquo;)

Paganism: Understanding and Compassion

One of the abiding tenets in most pagan belief systems is that of understanding, acceptance, and compassion. Most of us want these things. Most systems give a way to bring other ideas into play without feeling compromised. Even the Celts made way for Christianity and incorporated aspects of it in their ways. That's just how most pagan systems are set up-- to be accepting of change and understanding of other aspects.

One thing lately that has been pushing at me is that other people have asked me how I can believe in so-called dead gods. I remind them one thing-- dead is only in the eye of the beholder. Just as speaking a name gives power, so too does offering and worship. To me, the gods aren't dead. I see them every day in all I do. Whether it's greeting the dawn or walking in a park, or even at work at the computer- the gods are there and they enjoy that they're known. In some ways, it's the easiest thing in the world to know that you can worship as you wish. Sometimes it's hard because it makes it difficult to worship.

I believe in understanding, acceptance, and more importantly, in compassion. Those who don't believe as I do, they are okay. They aren't wrong, but neither am I. I worship in a way that is best to me and my beliefs, just as they do. Next Monday, we'll start on the Elements and how we are beholden to them most of all . (continue reading &aquo;)

Saturday, August 09, 2008

Saturday Flash-- Snippets, Tidbits, and Gripe

Today's flash, which is a day late (but I had a migraine that was NOT happy with me being awake), is just a scene that came to me suddenly in the midst of doing something else. It was one of those moments where you just look from one character to another and go... "What the hell are you doing?!" So-- for you all. LMAO Enjoy!

Thursday, August 07, 2008

Craft of Writing: Blurb- It's What's Happening!

Blurbs--they can get people reading or they can make people pass on by. Yes, many will tell you that cover alone is the be all, end all of your book hooking readers, but many of us are drawn more to titles and blurbs over covers. Even if you have the most kick-ass cover--without a blurb snaring the attention--you can still lose readers. So, how do you write a blurb that hooks your attention without giving too much away?
Blog Post: Craft of Writing: Blurb- It's What's Happening! http://s3nt.com/itx

Friday, August 01, 2008

Friday Flash- Menage and BDSM

Today's scene is inspired by Love Romances Cafe's theme day- BDSM and menage. The current story I'm working on has both elements-- which please me to no end. So a big thanks to Dawn and the LRC group for today's theme. *grins*



Liam tugged on Jeanne's hair, until she looked up into his face. "Sweetling, I know that you're new to the ways of the fae, but a command is a command. Seamus told you to remove your clothing. You will do as you're told."



Jeanne shook her head, as her hand dislodged Liam's. "No, I won't. From what you've told me, I'm the heir to the throne. I'm the one in charge and you two are my servants to command. What right do you both think that you can tell me what to do and think that I would even consider doing it?"



Seamus smiled as he placed himself behind Jeanne. "You want us. I smell your desire as easily as I breathe. You want us to take you, to pleasure you, you want us to make sure we're pleasured as well. Don't you, dearling?"



Jeanne looked from one to the other. How can they sense my arousal from them being this close to me? I'm not that obvious am I? "Explain yourselves, right now. How can you scent me?"



Seamus stroked Jeanne's dark hair, then slowly stroked the back of her neck. "Easy, we have increased olfactory senses. When Liam kissed you, your desire clung to the air, letting me know how much more you wanted. As for your desires, you're fae and all fae love a bit of bondage with their sex."



Jeanne gulped. They knew so much about her and she had no idea on what she wanted or what she could do, but the idea of letting these men control her every action sexually- as much as she wanted it, she wanted something more.



"I will let one of you boss me around sexually, but only one. The other must do what I want, how I want it. If you both can't agree to that, then we'll all do without. I may want you both, but it will be on my terms alone." She stepped to one side, forcing both men to face the other.



"Well?" Seamus asked Liam, as they both snuck a glance her way. "Do we do as the princess has asked of us, or do we take what we want and damn the consequences?"



"Taking what we want would be good, but in the long run, it'd hurt all of us." Liam cupped Seamus' chin. "But for all our new heir knows, she doesn't understand about us, does she?" Liam didn't give Seamus a chance to respond as he kissed the other man with deep affection. (continue reading &aquo;)

Wednesday, July 30, 2008

CoW- To Plot or Not to Plot Pt.1

What are the basic components of a good story?

Many authors and writers have different ideas on this. I make reference to Vogler’s The Character’s Journey and Morgan Hawke’s Cheater’s Guide to Erotic Romance Novellas.

Depending on if you’re writing a one or two main character story, that will decide how long and what kind of components you’ll have.

For a one person story, my story and characters are usually run like this-

1.) Intro to a crisis. - This is what starts the action of placing the character in motion and sets the plot in motion.

2.) First test/trial – Normally, the hero/heroine faces their first obstacle – usually physical with a slight nod of the internal conflicts. Normally I have them fail with a slight success to balance them enough to keep going.

3.) Twist to the Second Test. – This is usually internal conflict caused by external factors. This is a good place for a couple of red herrings, a few attempts to try to do something (and somewhat succeed). Normally this is where I have the characters begin questioning why they’re acting/reacting in certain ways. This also begin some resolution, though it’s not fully actualized in the mind.

4.) 1st Major Change/Semi-resolution – At this point we’re about halfway through our story. At this point, I toss the character into a point where external & internal conflicts collide. Why? Sagging middles are not good. By forcing the characters to face a mini version of what’s to come, you give the characters a chance to step up using the new techniques and resolutions. Depending on the genre of the story – the character fails completely, at least for me. Why? The lessons learned so far aren’t easy to do when they’re not natural. Thus at a crux point in the conflict, the old established beliefs hold say because the new beliefs aren’t helping. (Or so they think.)

5.) Grief State – I call this the grief state because now comes the time where the character after losing a battle (& fearing he’ll lose the war) begins the process to truly change and face his internal conflicts. From anger, depression, bargaining, etc – the character will grieve until he’s resolute in his course.

6.) Practicing while Turning – This time he hits either an internal or external or both and wins. It’s a major accomplishment and he feels he’s getting where he needs to be. This is where I, the author, give the character time to celebrate but then quickly move him to the hardest moment in his life.

7.) The Black Moment – After being lulled a bit, this is where I throw the lot at the character. I do it without letting up and force choices – both good and bad. But the hero knows now, he’s learned and conquers this. Though he wins, he knows there’s always a price.

8.) Resolution Station – Here we tidy loose ends, resolve the sadness of the bad part from the Black Moment, solve the mystery for others, etc. In the romance genre, we show the HEA or HFRN.



How does it work for TWO characters?

Just like above though you add a few more midpoints between the beginning & middle and the black moment. That allows you to overlap internal and external goals and conflicts and have each character’s growth be shown. So instead of 8 points you might have 10-12. This will also lengthen your story.



How many subplots should you have?

For very short stories, you often stick to one issue to be resolved – locked room mystery, falling in love, saving the universe.

As you increase the length, you add in internal and external goals/conflicts to deepen the main goal/conflict. Though they don’t have to seem related, these subplots should support the whole theme in some manner.

Also, you may set a short-term goal as a subplot.

Example – Saving the universe but while doing so the intrepid heroes must acquire a sacred object stolen in antiquity. By retrieving said object, the heroes gain an alliance that could help their main goal.



What if your main plot is weak, but you really want to use it? What do you do?



Think about making it a scene for a subplot. Or figure out the larger picture. Ask yourself questions to find out just what's needed to make the story longer and more indepth. What is the theme of the story? Oooh, that alone is a new topic. One where we will pick up come next week.

(continue reading &aquo;)

Pagan: Cheese (the easiest ever!)

This cheese recipe came to me from my gramps and verified by a Romuva member. I grew up with a cheese that wasn't like anything else I had tried since. It was soft, pale, but my gramps would make it and flavour it in many ways. Finally, after searching his cookbooks and getting the information about Lithuanian suris, I've finally gotten a good recipe for this cheese. (I'm so excited!)



Ingredients:



1/2 gallon milk



2 Tbsp lime juice or white vinegar



Assorted seasonings-- cumin seeds, red pepper flakes, garlic powder, dill, etc.



~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~



Heat the 1/2 gallon of milk to a boil, then remove it immediately from the heat. Stir in the lime juice. Keep stirring for 2-3 minutes until curds form and separate from the yellowish whey. If they don't separate, use another Tbsp of juice or vinegar and keep stirring. Once they separate, let sit for 10-15 minutes.



Then pour into a colander lined with cheesecloth, letting the liquid go down the drain. At this point, I normally bring all four corners together, twisting it slightly, to help wring more liquid from the cheese. I let the balled mixture hang in the cheesecloth another few minutes or until the dripping stops.



At this point, you can add in various seasonings, then mold your cheese into a container, or a specialized mold that you've bought, etc. Once you've put it in a mold, you'll want to place a heavy object on it, to not only disperse remaining liquid, but to also help it to conform to the mold.



One thing to note- this cheese doesn't melt much, which makes it good to make cheese sticks, and other goodies where you want the cheese to remain fairly intact. (continue reading &aquo;)

Tuesday, July 29, 2008

Personal: When Friends find you

Gods, this week has been intense. I'm on vacation- the first time since mom died in January. I miss her, but I also remember her lessons well. A month or so ago, I got an email about an old friend. It took a while, but we're back in touch again. The funny thing is-- this friend can tell stuff about my past that No One else knows. LMAO



Two years ago, Eric came back in my life. Now Leslie. We keep this up, we're going to end up with a huge collection of our old friends getting together for vacation or something. But this...this is a blessing I needed.



What a great moment for me. Leslie-- I've so missed you. Now if you even think of getting me to sing again-- we're gonna talk. LMAO (continue reading &aquo;)

The Sweet Taste of Completion

I'm on vacation this week. More importantly, I'm working on my writing. That's important to me and something that's been lacking for a while. This is day 3 of my vacation and the first day I spent just hanging out and doing fun things while packing to take myself to the male's house. Yes, I'm spending my week with my male. It's good for me, and for him. (Though he might deny it. LMAO)



What's interesting is that yesterday, my first real day of writing-- I finished a story that I've been having trouble. It's done, it's over double it's original length and more importantly-- I love the story again. I had always felt I had short-changed it. Now it's done. And I'm waiting to hear back about it. LMAO Life is good. I'm getting back into the submission process too.



This week, Liz Viehl, the Paperback Writer, is hosting Left Behind and Loving It Workshops for those who aren't attending RWA National. Honestly, I'm enjoying it more than I should. (I've got writing deadlines!) And it's reminded me of my own blogging regimen I need to get back into.



Yesterday I was supposed to blog about Paganism...and in fact, I'm gearing up for Lammas, also known as Lughnasadh. I'm preparing a meal feast for my male, my nephew, and myself. What will be fun is that it's one of those holidays for me as a Pagan that helps give thanks to things that I don't get to spend much time with-- the outdoors. Due to allergies and other lovely pathogens in the environment, I have to play with the outdoors carefully. But I can cook and I can celebrate in my own special way. And that we'll talk about later once I'm done with my 2k for the day. LMAO I'm about 1k in and need another 1k to be happy.



There's something about completing a long term project that just makes you feel so good. For me, it's a sweet taste that I'm savouring because it's been a long time coming. (continue reading &aquo;)

Friday, July 25, 2008

Friday Flash-- Lord of Abs vs. the Angel of Death

This is a story that I've sat on for years. I'm not great at romantic comedy, but this story every so often pops up and bites my ass. *grins* That said...one day, I'll be able to use this story idea and we'll see what happens.
~~~~~~

Nick Giovanni sped his motorcycle down the street. Granted that it wasn’t the normal means of traveling he enjoyed as a superhero, but one must maintain appearances for the rest of humanity. Lakeland wasn’t one of his usual stops, but this time he was here for a reason.

A dog darted out into Lakeland Hills Boulevard in front of him. Nick swerved, missing the dog, but causing his motorcycle to slide sideways along the road. The mutt scampered away as Nick’s body slammed into the pavement. He tried to brace himself after the impact, but there wasn’t enough time.

* * *

Angelique Dawson, Jocelyn Rogers, and Ayumi McCabe emerged from the diner. They laughed at Ayumi’s joke as they waited to cross the busy street. They heard the crash before they saw it, the black motorcycle skidding across the asphalt road. Angel dashed into traffic, heedless of what could happen to her.

She bent before the man whose helmet laid split in half beneath his head. Quickly, she examined him for any injuries. His leg was somewhat shredded as it bled from open wounds caused by being dragged. As she laid her hands on his wound, he stirred beneath her touch.

His eyes tried to focus on the shape before him. The sunlight created a halo effect around the blonde hair of the person whispering comfort to him. He blinked again as warmth emanated from her. “Are you the Angel of Death?” he asked hesitantly.

Angel smiled. “I’ve been called the Grim Reaper because of what I did to Fred and Ethel, but never have I’ve been called the Angel of Death.”

His audible gasp caused her to place her hands firmly on his wound to stop the bleeding once again. He whispered, “Why do I think I should be afraid?” Then his eyes fluttered closed as unconsciousness surrounded him.

“Because most people are?” Angelique whispered as she tended his injuries the best she could. Seeing the damage to his leg, she placed her hands on it and began setting it as well as she could, using her metahuman abilities. “Where’s the ambulance already?”

“It’s coming. How is he?”

“I need you to check his pulse. He seems shocky. I’m trying to keep him from bleeding out too much.”

“Careful with your ability.”

“Well, the Lord of abs ain’t going anywhere quick, now is he?”

“Lord of abs?”

“Take a look at the six pack he’s got, you tell me?” Angelique said as she bit her bottom lip while trying to use her talent for degeneration for regeneration. Her mentor had tried to teach her, but it wasn’t always easy or successful, thus the reason her air ferns, Fred and Ethel were deader than a doorknob.
Blog Post: Friday Flash-- Lord of Abs vs. the Angel of Death http://s3nt.com/hbk

Friday, July 18, 2008

Flash Friday-- Who's in Charge?

Today's flash is themed on Changeling Press's Bar and Grill theme-- Sex anywhere and everywhere. The idea of sex in such an adventurous manner has been playing at my mind all day while at the day job. But more importantly, it made me think about what is one person's adventure is another person's idea of boring. So, finally, after some thought, I think I have a decent sequence put together. It's....definitely different.

~~~~ ~~~~~~~~~~~   ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

"I'll give you anything you want, except what you really want," Lila purred as she stroked Xavier's bare chest. She reveled in the fact that she managed to chain him before he realized her intentions. "But if you're good, you can earn what you want."

Xavier's eyes closed as if trying to ignore Lila's nails rippling over his nipples. "Please, Lila. You know I don't know how to be a good slave boy like Darius." His eyelids fluttered as she pinched one sensitive nipple, finally letting her see those gorgeous onyx eyes. "Pick on him, but I won't give into your games. He likes them."

Lila snorted as she continued to stroke Xavier's naked, chained body. The sound of the chains rattling reinforced the growing need in her. Xavier often made her the toy in their games, but tonight would be different. "Yes, but you like playing games too. In fact, this place was your idea." She gestured to the night club where people danced around the cage Xavier and her stood in. "You wanted to splay me here for your sexual needs. But instead, you're the captured one. How does it feel?"

"I hate it. Release me, Lila. Because when I get out, I will punish you for this." His words were harsh and filled with rage. She knew that he felt caged like an animal that needs to be free. My precious panther, when will you learn that you're only as free as your mind lets you be? I can control you with my submission as I will rule you with my strength.

"Personally, I think you should let me fuck him as you suck his cock. Then force him to fuck you while I do him in the chains," Darius remarked as he climbed into the cage. Lily smiled at the almost naked male. Darius was truly a Switch-- both dominant and submissive. He submitted only to women strong enough to handle his magick and dominant to all other preternatural males. It's what made Lila love him. But there was Xavier to deal with.

"Down, Darius. Xavier likes to do the deed, not be the recipient. He doesn't like to the receiver. But tonight is different." Lila slapped Xavier's leather clad cock. "Tonight is about me and my control. My needs. Xavier, you might be were, but I am the ruler of all animals--including you. You will obey or the punishment of this will be prolonged until you break. Understood?"

"Never!" Xavier spat at them both. (continue reading &aquo;)

Thursday, July 17, 2008

Book Trailers-- I finally did one!

Yuppers, I did, I did! I've uploaded it onto Youtube. It's for my books, Shades of Fyre, the easiest book to put together something. I'm hoping the next time I've got downtime that I can do one for Treaty of Desire or one of my other books at Loose Id. It was fun to do! Shades of Fyre Book Trailer

Tuesday, July 08, 2008

Lounging with Raine Delight

Welcome to the Lounge of Cyn. Today we have a special guest, Ms. Raine Delight. Trust me; this author is someone you want to put on your TBB SOON pile.

Cyn: Welcome to the Lounge, Raine. *waves the male harem towards Raine* Please take good care of Raine while we chat, gentlemen. Raine here deserves some extra special loving today. Tell me a bit about yourself, Raine. How did you get started writing romance?

Raine: Hi Cyn {hums with approval over the lovely display of eye candy}, what a lovely place you have here. Thanks for inviting me. Let’s see something about myself huh *eyes glaze over as they start to give a foot massage*. *shakes head* Well, I am a single mom of two ages 6.5 and 8, have a boy toy of my own *smiles wickedly* and I am a lover of books. I started writing over 2 years ago and with a few missteps with a publisher or two, I finally found a place that I enjoy being at. I am a HUGE HEA girl. I love romance and all the trappings. Heck I am a Libra so go figure that I put much on little things like flowers for no reason, little notes to say “I love you” and other stuff like that. My favorite thing in writing is having two completely opposite characters find that the sparks they have between them makes one dang hot fire! *grins wickedly*

Cyn: I know you write paranormal romance. Why paranormal? Why not straight contemporary?


Raine: Paranormal is a fun genre. I can explore to my hearts content over different aspects that everyone knows about and add in my own imaginative things to keep it different, fresh and interesting. I can’t do a straight contemporary if you paid me to. *shrugs* For some reason, it just doesn’t interest me in any way. I like the way paranormal fits inside my head and in my stories. I am branching into Sci-Fi Futuristic Romance, Fantasy romance and other genres like that. Makes me feel like I am thinking outside the box, so to speak.

Cyn: What led to the creation of Devon Falls? How did the initial idea of a series set in that location come to you?

Raine: Devon Falls *smiles softly*. I just read a book that sucked, plain and simple. TSTL Characters, a very weak plot line and other flaws that had me gnashing my teeth and muttering I could do better. An author friend, Skyler Sinclair told me to do it and I took aspects of my hometown, added in some very imaginative characters and plot; VOILA! Devon Falls was born! Sticky Magic, the 1st book was written in one week and from then on it took off. I never expected it to have 5 books much less the response to the whole series as a whole. J Each book except the very last one is set around a holiday. Sticky Magic is Christmas, Red Hot Magic is Valentine’s Day, Fiery Magic is 4th of July and Haunting Magic is Halloween. Each has some aspect of the paranormal, be it magical mages, shape shifters or something like that but all have one thing in common: the characters all find a love worth fighting for and sharing. J The final book is something of a mystery but you do get a hint of what it may be in Fiery Magic. *grins wickedly* Each book also has a character that is the next book’s hero/heroine. Something really different and unique if I say so. *laughs then groans as the lovely boys hits on my arches with delightful pressure*


Cyn: What was the best writing advice given to you when you first started writing?

Raine: To write, write, write and then write some more. I am a busy mom and frankly try to write during the day when kids are in school. With summer vacation coming, I may alter my schedule a little especially as we have family vacations, birthdays, and high school graduations coming up. Weekends I leave for family. This is my down time and I desperately need it. LOL I try to treat this as a job but sometimes life just gets in the way and I may not write as much but I always try to write at least 500-1000 words a day if I can during the week.

Cyn: What advice would you give to aspiring writers?

Raine: To write what you know then expand it! Keep learning from more established authors and try to do free workshops if possible. I try to get some workshops in on anything I can to help me learn more on my craft. Write what you know then smash it by going beyond what you know and expand the horizons. Always make sure to read publishers submission rules carefully!!!!! That is very important. I also try to beta test something on an impartial person, be it an author friend or a crit partner. I like finding out what doesn’t work before I submit so I can change it and polish it up even more before submitting so I can get an acceptance letter rather than a rejection letter.

Cyn: *leans forward and motions for two men to begin the massage on Raine’s lower back* Tell me, Raine, who inspired you to write such erotic love scenes? How do you keep inspired when writing?

Raine: *moans as they hit one particular troublesome area* My god Cyn, I am definitely going to have to come back for some more relaxation. *Evil Grin*

*laughs* My honey loves being my “research partner”. According to him, it is all in the name of research! *Laughs softly* Most of the stuff I write is sensual to explicit. I don’t believe in close door romance. I find that sex is a natural part of life and once you stop feeling like that then it is all down hill. Maybe some are uncomfortable with that but heck, I like sex and the way it is between two people who love and cherish each other. To me that is romantic and special. I try to make the books I write have that foundation before they generate to a bedroom, a wall, heck a counter top or the floor. *laughs* It is all imagination though I have been known to partake in some sensual bondage games with the honey sometimes. *Wide innocent grin*

Cyn: If you had a choice between plain cheesecake and chocolate chip cheesecake, which would you choose?

Raine: *swear softly* You do know my weakness Cyn. *laughs* Neither. Give me White Chocolate Carmel truffle cheesecake. LOL I like the unusual and decadent!

Cyn: What makes a hero? How do you create your heroes?

Raine: My heroes have flaws of some kind, but their heart is good and in the right place. A flawed character gives the author more to work with then a perfect one because face it; there are NO perfect people though from what I see on celebrity news, many think they are perfect. *snickers*

They come to me, either in flashes or voices in my head though it is always when I am drifting off to sleep and I am swearing a blue streak to the voices to contact me on my office hours. *grins* I start writing and they end up telling me what they look like, what they like and who they love/lust for. It is fun to unwrap the layers and get to the soul of them and find that the woman of their dreams is actually one that may or may not be right for them. My muse is one demanding bugger and he likes to take some naughty side trips to nude beaches and sip mai tais. *laughs* I swear some days he enjoys watching me swear at him and pound out words on the computer and then have him come swooping in to save the day. I swear he has a hero complex. LOL


Cyn: What is Raine up to now? How can readers contact her and find out the latest?

Raine: I have so many WIP’s in different stages it is not funny. LOL I am writing a Space Pirates series that I am interested in another publisher for, add in a romantic comedy with paranormal elements, a BDSM-themed paranormal, plus a few others, I am going to be one busy bee this year. Plus I am writing the 4th book in Devon falls, Haunting Magic and then I am letting it rest a spell to write other stuff and then in 2009 I will write the final Devon Falls book. Also AMP just contracted my Fantasy Romance called Fairy Kisses and Magical Dreams. It has a magical Faberge Egg, romance and a hot Fae Prince determined to get out of an arranged marriage by finding his destined mate. Look for that either end of 2008 or early 2009.

To find out about what I am up to, you can go to these places:

Website: www.freewebs.com/raine_delight (I am in the process of getting a new website loaded and will be unveiling it, I hope, over the summer).

Blog: http://rainedelight.wordpress.com

My Space (come be my friend): www.myspace.com/raine_delight

Email: rainedelight@yahoo.com OR rainedelight@gmail.com

Raine’s Sinful Seductions Newsletter: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/RaineDelightNewsletter

Raine’s Chat Loop: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/rainedelight

Come on over and sit a spell. I enjoy meeting new people and seeing what they enjoy in books.

Cyn: Can you share a bit of your next release with us?

Raine: Fiery Magic comes out July 4th. In just *looks at calendar and counts* 16 days! This is Alicia and Damien’s story. It is emotional and sexy to my eyes. Basically it is a story of redemption, of finding that the love you thought died was still there and about forgiveness.

Three years before, Damien Dracon destroyed Alicia Stevens (Jenna’s sister from Sticky Magic) heart and from then on he has regretted that he lost the one woman who was his mate, his love and the only one who made him whole. Fast forward to three years later, Damien came back to Devon Falls, determined to win back her heart and show that love can be sweeter the second time around. Alicia and Damien both have secrets that threaten this fragile love that blooms again and add in a twin brother, Rodrick who thinks every woman is his to use and toss aside, secrets and sinfully hot sex, you get Fiery Magic. J

This one was special to me because I wanted to show how two people can come together, get ripped apart by choices that they had to make even if it was the hardest thing they had to do and find that love always wins over time. Revisit Devon Falls and find out if Alicia will bring Damien to his knees and both will end up with more than they ever thought possible. Can Alicia forgive the man who broke her heart and who she still loves even after the hurt that lingers in her deepest part of her soul? Can Damien win over the cynical woman that Alicia has become? Everything comes to head when these two find that love is always sweeter the second time around.

The wonderful Celia Kyle did the cover and I have to say…she did a beautiful job capturing the characters on the cover. I have heard that many love Alicia’s eyes on the cover and that they are very striking. *grins* I can’t wait to see how Haunting Magic’s cover will look once I get that into Aspen Mountain Press.

*groans as the boys deliver a wonderful massage* God Cyn, maybe you should offer package deals for the boys/girls and let us buy an hour of their time for “relaxation”. *grins wickedly* Thanks for having me here and I thoroughly enjoyed my first time here. *laughs* I look forward to more visits. J

Saturday, June 28, 2008

Friday Flash-- Sex Is

I had this scene in my head for a while. I have no clue what it's for. I know it's inspired by the MSNBC poll about reading romance. Plus many authors and readers have been discussing why they read and write romance. So, I took it one step further.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

“I don’t care how many times you tell me that sex has got to mean something,” Veronica growled, approaching her best friend, Nina. “Sex means nothing, except a physical release. Making love is different. That’s that emotional thing you go through with each boyfriend. Oh wait, you go through boyfriends like water, so perhaps you’re arguing because you can’t make it last!”

The short haired brunette stepped back, making Veronica wince internally. Nina was a good friend, but she was searching for something that didn’t exist– the perfect life with the perfect man. But Ronni knew better. She knew that happiness came from yourself, then from others. They can only help increase your belief in yourself.

“Sometimes, I hate you, Ronni. I believe sex means something.” Nina stepped forward, grabbing her arm. “You may want to pretend it doesn’t, but inside, it means you’re looking for someone to be compatible with.”

Ronni shook her head. “Sex is sex. Physical release based upon endorphin rushes. Physical pleasure that does not have to include the heart or soul, Nina.” Glancing into disbelieving blue eyes, Ronni made a decision. It might cost her a bit, but she had to get her friend to believe that one time sex does not make a relationship. “I’ll make you a deal. You come with me to Pleasures and I show you another side of sexuality. If after you see that, you can still say sex is emotional and commitment searching, I will drop this. But if you can’t–”

“If I can’t, then I’ll let you have the right to reject the next guy I meet.”

“Agreed.” Ronni knew that her friend was tough, but hell, Nina hadn’t ever been to Pleasures, one of the best kept secrets in Silver Springs.

Friday, June 27, 2008

Why romance?

My father does NOT understand it. My mom did. My sisters kinda get it, but my male does. Romance– why do I write what I do? Many people will tell you it’s for the happily ever after. Some will tell you it’s about falling in love. Some will even say it’s for the sex ideas. Well– they’re all correct.

I write romance because I love the sensation of falling in love, I love stories with Happily Ever After, I love the hot sex that makes me want to tell my male “Get in that bedroom now!” But there’s something more. Writing about romance is only part of the equation for me. My romances aren’t strict romances, but are part of a whole. I write action stories for women and men that have romance within the storyline. Why? Because love and romance are part of our daily lives. Whether we like it or not– it’s there. We either deal with a lack of love or needing it or having it and taking it for granted.

I write romance because it lets me have the best of many worlds. I can write sci-fi, fantasy, urban fantasy, or more and keep the romantic elements in play to help complete the story and to ratchet up the tension. Anyone who’s read the original Dragonlance Chronicles knows the romance stories that were not a huge part of the plot but happened to enhance the telling of the stories.

Currently, I’m writing something dealing more in the sexual fantasy realm. I’m actually stepping into the realm of BDSM and though I’m slightly nervous of showing this side of myself and my personal knowledge, in another way, I’m thrilled to finally let go and not hold back. It’s hard because sex and romance do go hand in hand, though many people don’t want to hear that. For me, kinky sex is more fun to read and to experience because it allows me freedom I don’t get in my daily life. (We all can’t be Indiana Jones or Lara Croft! Dammit.)

So stay tuned. I’ll be putting out my newsletter this month with a special interview with Lena Austin, one of my favourite erotic romance authors. But be prepared- I’m going to be posting more about sexuality, craft of writing, and more. Just when I thought I was going to be normal– I upped the ante on sharing what I know.

Friday, May 30, 2008

Friday Flash-- Forever versus Eternal Pt. 2

Due to a request and a command-- I'm posting part 2 of my Captain Jack Flash for this Friday. Enjoy!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
As she walked down the street, the first thing she noticed was the emptiness of the streets. Though she’d been warned by London Torchwood regarding certain beasties, it wasn’t until this moment that the danger became real. “Fuck me sideways until I scream,” she muttered under her breath, rubbing her hands over her forearms, making sure her knife sheaths were in place. Though normally she didn’t go armed with just knives, taking a weapon into a club was not on the recommended to do list.

Her quick strides ate up the ground before her, but no matter how much distance she put between the club and herself, she heard the music throbbing in her veins. Then another sound made its way into her mind. That of movement behind her. Cautiously, Cyrena slid one blade hilt into her left hand while keeping her right free. Something was following her, but she wasn’t sure for how long.

Before she could turn around, the one thing she didn’t want to hear blazed in her mind. Another rift opening occurred, this one bigger than the last. It wasn’t too far ahead of her, but if she was going to deal with her follower, she might miss a chance to balance out the energies of the rift, allowing someone or something else to have entrance. Fuck me while I’m tied! This isn’t fair!

In that moment, Cyrena dashed towards the beacon in her mind, letting her stalker either follow her or not. The rift energy was too high, too uncontrollable to not cause damage to this beautiful town. At least I’m dressed to kick ass whether it be club or dealing with the rift. I wonder if that’s why the Doctor sent me here?
Suddenly, Cyrena felt the power of the rift touching her skin. Glancing around, she realized that she wasn’t in a very populated district of Cornwall, being nearer to the warehouses. Luckily that meant less people to watch her deal with the rift activity, but it also meant that if something happened to her, no one would find her body for days. Shrugging off that negative thought, Cyrena crouched behind a dumpster, waiting for the energy to reach its peak. Until it did, anything she did would be dangerous.

As she waited, she heard not just one set of footsteps but multiple. It must’ve been Jack who followed her. She heard him call her name when she realized something was about to come through.

“Stay back, Jack,” she cautioned standing up and walking towards the rippling energy. She couldn’t look at him. It made her want something that wasn’t hers to have. Though she had powers, some that weren’t made for use on this earth, others could help keep things safe. Like her ability to calm the rift. As the Doctor pointed out, people like her had been kept imprisoned for that talent. “You and your Torchwood team, just stay back.”

Out of the corner of her eye, she noticed a tall, thin dark haired man approach. Is it too much to ask for anyone to fucking listen just once? I can’t take a risk of the energy hurting him…Owen. Her mind touched his and she abruptly pulled back. “Dammit, Owen, stay back. This energy can destroy your body leaving your soul to wander free!”

Cyrena looked over her shoulder to where Jack Harkness stood. “Please, Jack. I don’t want you and your people in the crossfire. Toshiko knows just how powerful this energy ripple is. Let me do my job.”

Jack nodded. “Fine, Phoenix. But after, we talk.” He clicked his earpiece. “Everyone pull back. Ms. Cyrena thinks that she can stop this before it gets any worse.”

“Not think, I know.” Cyrena moved to the edge of the energy and using her blade, began cutting and absorbing the power, being moved into a dance that allowed her to shift and release the energy into the more appropriate energy conducive to refueling things, such as a Tardis. She didn’t think past the fact that somehow the Torchwood team had been on their way to this location just as she instinctively was called. All that mattered was this deep, thick energy of the Rift was dissipated in a way that wouldn’t harm anyone on this planet. She continued to lash out her blade and dance, shifting the energy, not seeing anything but the music of the energy.

Then an arm grabbed her and she screamed. It was a huge Weevil, like nothing she had encountered before. Cyrena slashed at its eyes hoping to blind it when a blast filled her ears and the creature released her. She ran blindly towards where the sound originated, smacking into a hard chest. Warm arms wrapped around her. “You okay, Cyrena?”

Jack. Gods above he’d be the death of her. His touch and that look of concern was all hers. In this moment, she knew exactly what the Doctor had warned her about. “I’m…I’m okay. Thank you.”

A small petite Japanese woman approached them. “Jack, the energy is gone. Cyrena did something to it. Now it reads just as regular energy that we’d normally find along the Rift. I don’t know how she managed to convert all that power. How did you?”

Cyrena stepped out of Jack’s arms and sighed. “When you die only to live again, you seem to gain certain talents. Why else would my Torchwood moniker be the Phoenix?”

An Online newspaper for Pagans, especially witches

Every so often, I get information that just makes me wonder. When we hear of atrocities of abusers and the human rights gone wrong in other countries, we cringe. Yet, sometimes we forget that those who practice magick need a reliable source of news regarding others in our beliefs. Thus, a friend of mine brought this online newspaper to my attention. www.magereport.com

Though it has a lot of what's been negatively going on in our world in regards to magick, there are some positive things as well. But the only way we can truly combat the negative connotations is if we strive to show the positive sides of being who we truly are.

Thursday, May 22, 2008

Raven Radio Goes Nights!




Those Raven Nights!

Raven Radio, as mentioned in Romantic Times Magazine, is moving to nights! Tune in every Wed at 11-12 PM EST and join Authors Michelle Pillow and Mandy Roth as they talk about everything, nothing and the paranormal. Guests include NY Times and USA Today Bestselling authors as well as those wonderfully talented authors soon to be there, editors, paranormal tour guides, psychics, ghost hunters, specialists and more!

www.ravenhappyhour.com or http://www.blogtalkradio.com/ravenradio


Listeners are welcome to join the live chat or call in to the show to talk to us and our guests. The show will move to its new evening schedule, May 28th where listeners can catch us every Wednesday at 11PM to 12AM EST. We have a lot of authors on the upcoming line up and you can see a full schedule of guests here: http://ravenhappyhour.com/raven_podcast_schedule_of_guests.htm

WANT TO JOIN THE VIRAL CONTEST AND HELP SPREAD THE WORD ABOUT RAVEN NIGHTS? Go to Raven’s blog to learn how you could win free advertising packages! Contest open to authors, readers and other groups! http://ravenhappyhour.com/ravenblog/?p=463

Friday, May 16, 2008

Friday Flash- Repository- Chaucer's Game

For Nik and Sharyn. *Grins and runs like hell*

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
I stared at the phone receiver in my hand. Obviously someone is going to London and I think it's not either of my sisters. Fuck me raw with my hands tied behind my back. After hanging up the receiver, I sat back on my office chair and wondered what I was getting into. I don't know why I said yes to the way-too-nerdy-even-for-me British professor. I'm no expert in medieval manuscripts, but something in my mind perked when Dr. Phineas Tolliver mentioned the name of Geoffrey Chaucer. And when my subconscious mind and its link to my ancestors perk, I'm very inclined to listen.

Rubbing the back of my neck with one hand, I looked over the notes I took. Somehow, the fantastic folks at the British Library had failed to realize that in a collection of notes from the exchequer and other government officials-- there were a few unofficial letters among them. Since the Library won't let them be faxed or scanned in any way, the only way to verify the authenticity would be to go there. Lucky for me, it means my other sisters were disqualified from the search.

The ringing of the phone took me out of my revelry. Caller id said it was from the museum I was head curator. "Hello, this is Cylene," I said, trying not to demand what they wanted on my day off.

"Hey boss, it's Callum." The voice was a light baritone, which befitted my male secretary. Good man, Callum Montgomery, even if he deserved to be shot on occasion when his excitement got in the way of paying attention. "There's a slight problem here."

"Not about the new excavation finds," I whinged. "Please say that's going well."

The hesitation let me know that it wasn't going well, but that wasn't the main problem. Sighing, I put my notes aside and grabbed a pad of paper. "What's wrong, Cal?"

"Honestly? Your sister, Serina, arrived this morning looking like hell and is now setting up the excavation stuff. Seems that someone or some people tried to steal it away like you all thought." Before I could ask, Callum continued in that officious voice of his. "She is fine. Serina has contacted certain people whom I'm not privy to and has put an investigation into full swing. We should be able to do the grand opening tomorrow night as long as there are no more interruptions."

"Good. Then that's just scraping by our teeth. I'll check with Serina later. What else, Cal?" I tapped my pen against my desk, trying to keep my patience. I swear Callum wrings things out because he knows it annoys me to no end.

"The insurance adjusters are here, a month early." Those words made the hairs on the back of my neck stand on end. There was no way they could be there. I know the adjusters. Something was wrong, my intuition and my psychic abilities started blaring hard in my mind.

"Get security and have them follow the adjusters. In fact, contact Garrett and tell him we have an Atlas issue. Understand me? Atlas issue. Then make sure you lock up everything in our offices and change the codes to something you know alone. After that, get the hell out of there and go to my private sanctuary, Callum. Do not go near those people. Let Garrett and Nyla handle them."

"As you say boss. Code locking the computers as we speak and putting all papers into the safe. I'm glad I called you. Something about them--"

I growled into the phone. "No talking, get doing! Hang up with me and get Garrett. I'll call Nyla. She's probably out in her backyard doing some kind of mechanical thing. Go and do exactly as I directed, Cal. You're in danger and I want you out of there!"

Slamming down the phone, I cursed in five of the multiple languages I'd learned as a child. Picking up my cellular phone, I dialed my sister, Nyla's number. On ring number two she picked up. "Hey, what's going on? My spider sense..."

"Is right. Go to the museum. The insurance adjusters are a month early." I scribbled down a number that popped into my head. "I've got Callum following Atlas procedures."

"Going now. I'll call Serina. I know she's in the museum and can cover 'til Garrett and I get there." Nyla disconnected without a goodbye. Times like these, you don't need goodbyes, you need get dones.

And I'm supposed to be leaving to England on the night flight out from Tampa. Fuck me sideways.

Sunday, May 04, 2008

Sunday Surprise Flash-- Judgment or Redemption

Things have been brewing and sometimes what I feel and know to be happening has to come out and allow me to see it more clearly. So, I decided to write this snippet because I must make a choice soon….and it’s not going to be easy. It hurts to know that someone I love has broken a promise– and the consequences hurt like hell. Take a read and see what you think of this little story idea.


~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

She looked up at her soul siblings and shuddered. For too long she had hidden in the dark, doing the things that put her further away from balance and away from the loving embrace of those who accepted her as she was. But now, now she had been caught and nothing she could say or do could change what was about to happen.

“I’ve done nothing wrong…” Katarina whimpered, trying to hide her face behind the veil she’d been wearing.

The oldest sibling stepped forward and caressed Katarina’s cheek. “You’ve done nothing right either. You chose a path that fed into the darkness and took you from your own true path. You’ve used your powers to gain power and to gain what you thought you needed and wanted, but without regards to costs nor to the fact you denied the lessons put before you.”

The red-headed sibling stepped forward, ripping the veil from Kat’s face. “You are unworthy to be among us. But you also have served Balance and we must give you this one last chance.” Tanera shook her head. “Personally, I think you’ll find a way to deny your fears and you’ll refuse to admit the truth because you’re not strong enough nor do you want to be whole enough to do so.”

“You know NOTHING about how I am.” Katarina stepped forward, only to have the oldest sister, a blonde haired woman to take hold of her hand and pull her into an embrace.

“But I do. I know who you are, what you are, and what you’ve become.” Sylene sighed and kissed the top of her head and Kat felt the tears slide wet into her hair. Sylene always tried to do what was right, no matter the cost. “You think it’s all about you and that you deserve things. You’ve forgotten the important part– you’re not alone and your actions affect everyone else in your world. We don’t want you to go without– but you are trying to make sure the rest of us do– because you won’t face your demons, nor your own mistakes.”

Katarina wrapped her arms around Sylene. “It’s not true. I’ve made my peace. I’m trying to learn my lessons.”

The third sister, with blonde hair with black streaks pulled on Katarina’s ponytail. “You have not and still you persist on lying. You’ve rejected your heritage, practicing only what helps you, and you LIE when confronted with evidence. You ignore your soulmate, but won’t free him either because he’s YOURS. Yet you do stupid shite and expect to be forgiven always because of who you are and whom you belong to. You face expulsion, Katarina. Do you not yet understand this?”

“Our beliefs are based on the old, not what’s come out since then. Why shouldn’t I have what I want when I want it? Is it so wrong to put myself first?” Katarina looked at her baby sister, Nerys. “You don’t give a shit about anything and think it’s okay, but why the fuck should I NOT have all I want if I don’t hurt anyone?”

Sylene sighed softly as she tilted Katarina’s chin towards her. “You don’t get it. You have hurt people and you seem to think it’s okay to do so. You’ve harmed one of MY heartmates, your soulmate because you choose to act in a selfish manner. You can’t keep balance when you have a heartmate in your life. You go chasing all these things because you won’t face your fears nor will you face the one thing you need to– that you have become what you hate most in the heartmate banished from our group.”

“No! No!No!” Katarina screamed, pulling away from Sylene’s arms. “You lie, you wish to make yourself to be judge and jury. You think to make me conform when you said I should be myself.”

Sylene nodded at her other sisters and they surrounded Katarina, encasing her in a magick circle. “You take advantage, you manipulate, you harm because you want and you need. You are selfish and you are scared. You break balance and you misuse the powers given to you because you think you can do better alone than by living by what’s been proven time and again.” Sylene slid an athame from her belt and used it to cut open a small slit on her thumb. As the blood from the wound dropped to the ground, it sizzled and even Katarina felt the power so much greater than hers surround her. “You are loved, you are wanted, but you refuse to see that you fear not being good enough. You fear not mattering. You fear that if others get you will receive NOTHING. But in doing what you’ve done, you’ve become the nothing. You ache to find fulfillment and make blood oaths and promises and demand things you have no right to demand because you have fucked up, sismine.”

“Bound by blood, bound by love, bound by the elements– you are judged,” Tanera intoned, throwing salt into the circle. “Purify thy heart, thy mind, thy soul. Face the fact that you are no longer in balance but have stepped into that which we cast out Tal. You are a leech, and you’ve lost your purpose. Give up the imbalance and let us heal you.”

Nerys threw water at Katarina, splashing it upon her naked body. “Cleanse and purify. Face the demons that you fear and allow us to show you that we love you.”

A deeper voice came out from the darkness and a male stepped to the edge of the circle, taking Sylene’s hand. “Let us show you the way back to the woman I have loved for so long. Come back to me, Katarina.”

“You touch my sister, but you are MINE!” Katarina spat as she tried to break out of the circle. “You are no longer HERS.”

“Yet you treat me as lesser than your heartmates..I who am your soulmate. I who have done all I could to make you feel safe and loved.” Seth spoke clearly. “Sylene loves me as heartmate. She knows who I truly love and adore. But she and I are close. She gives me understanding and a kick when I go wrong. Yet you reject me for someone you can manipulate into giving you what you think will make you happy. Now look what that’s done.”

Katarina pushed upon the magickal barrier, but nothing would let her out. She knew they spoke truth, but there was no way back…hadn’t the expulsion of Tal taught her that? “There is nothing you can do to me except strip me of my powers and break the bond between you and I,” she whispered.

******

Sylene saw the realization and the fear as it slid across Katarina’s face. Good, perhaps now we can get her past the darkness of self and into the light of self healing. “No, there is more we can do. More that I can do. You forget who and what I am, sismine.”

Katarina swallowed. “You are the servant of the gods, the keeper of balance, the true daughter of the Elements. This I know and understand.”

Sylene stepped forward, releasing Seth’s hand. She felt his hand stroke her back, reassuring her that she was doing the right thing. “Yes, dear one, I am that…but I am more.” Allowing her shields to drop fully, Sylene let Katarina see the power that was hers. “Do you not truly understand what it means to be the daughter of power and the one who cries for the inhumanity that occurs when there is no balance?”

Kat stepped back, only to be stopped by the magickal barrier. Sylene stepped forward. “I declare you Rogue. I declare you Unfit. I declare you Uncleansed before Gods, Mortal and Elements alike. I declare you one chance left to save all you hold dear…and then I destroy it all…..and make you watch it while you acknowledge as my slave…that you did wrong.”

“No! You can’t, you musn’t! Don’t kill my heartmates…don’t destroy Seth. He hasn’t done anything. It’s ME!” Katarina grabbed Sylene by both arms and tried shaking her. “Don’t you dare make me kill you, sismine! I won’t let you take away what I have!”

Sylene laughed, the power growing inside of her as she spun her magick around her beloved sister. “You can’t kill me, sismine. The power was never yours to do so. Only Nerys and Tanera have that ability. And yes, I can kill those you love and have manipulated. Because they’ve been tainted by your evil. If you truly want to save them— then save yourself. Your choice and you make it here and now….or watch me take away all you truly deserve.”

Sylene looked over her shoulder and mouthed to Seth, “I hate this. Please…”

Seth smiled at her. “It’s okay..you do what is needed. I want her better. No matter the cost to myself.”

Sylene turned back to Katarina. “See, he would sacrifice it all to have you healed. Yet you offer nothing of yourself to save the ones you claim to love and be bonded to. How selfish you’ve become, sismine.”

Friday, April 25, 2008

Friday Flash-- More of Open Up and Say Aah

Maeyla rose up on her toes, easing the pressure off her arms so she could take a deeper breath. When she agreed to some bondage, she hadn’t considered she’d be the one tied up. Yet this delicious vampire specimen hadn’t hurt her. Granted the flog marks on her ass would take a while to fade, but her pussy dripped and the aching had spread into deep within her core. She needed to be taken, but beyond the normal need to be fucked. Somehow, Dmitri had found that core of her being that needed to feel, not think. To feel nothing but sensation and all the joy and pain it brought to her.

“I knew you’d be tough, Maeyla, but even the Tooth fairy has a breaking point,” Dmitri whispered against one ear. She couldn’t see him since she allowed him to blindfold her, but her other senses were hyper-aware of every movement he made near her body. The rasp of his leather pants against her thigh had her wanting, needing more.

“I’m tough because I have to be. It’s not easy being an item of ridicule in the Fey courts.” Maeyla tried to bite back the bitterness, but it came pouring out of her. Part of her realized it’s what he wanted to hear, but another part of her was shocked at revealing so much to an outsider of the courts. He couldn’t truly understand what it meant.

One strong finger caressed her cheek and she leaned into it, enjoying the strong warmth. As it slid down her jaw, then her neck, she shivered as his finger caressed over the top of one breast, lightly teasing the tight nipple. “You don’t have to be strong with me, Maeyla. Let me carry this burden tonight.”

“What I live is not a burden, it just is.” A sudden slap across her ass made her yelp in pain. “Hey! I’m just telling you what is what. I’m not complaining!”

“That is enough, Maeyla. You will listen to what I say and obey or else. I will not tolerate you denigrating yourself just because others in the Courts do so.” His voice was deadly serious and she found herself swallowing. “You understand me, don’t you, Maeyla?”

“Yes, Dmitri.”

“Good, my beautiful fey. I know your aunt, very well, and I know she would never tolerate anyone speaking badly about you in any of the courts.” Dmitri’s finger continued its quest down her body, stopping when it reached her drenched curls between her thighs. “Her Lady of Shadows and Stars does not put up with any bullshit. Nor should you. You’re better than most of them.”

“I’m a child’s dream made manifest. My ability is a minor one–OW!” She raised up on her toes further as Dmitri smacked her once, twice, then a third time. “Gods dammit, Dmitri, that hurts!”

“Good. Stop speaking negatively. You do a special job making the loss of teeth into a beautiful transition for kids. You even help those of us who go from human to preta-human when our predator teeth come in. Don’t think I haven’t heard about you from the others, Maeyla.”

She whispered softly, “What have you heard?”

“You take away the pain and bring pleasure to an experience that can create an agonized mind and give them a peace that allows them to accept their change.” Dmitri’s voice sounded from below her now and she tried to move, to force him closer so she could hear the lilting accent slide across her once more. Hands splayed her feet further apart and she inhaled sharply. What was he going to do to her?

Thursday, April 10, 2008

Friday Flash-- Forever versus Eternal

She felt him the moment he walked within five yards of her. Cyrena inhaled slowly, then exhaled, letting the power the man behind her exuded flow around her. Any other man, she might've taken up the offer and used it to benefit others, but this man, this man was dangerous to her well-being. Turning around slowly, her eyes lit upon the well-built, unusually dressed, dark haired man. His sudden smile lit up the room and she felt a flash of desire and need fill her. Damn, the Doctor was right. Dangerous and sexy as all get out. There is nothing ordinary about Captain Jack Harkness at all.

"Excuse me, miss." He brushed her arm casually with his hand. "I'm trying to find something."

Cyrene tilted her head to one side and grinned. "Searching for what caused the sudden flash of energy from the Rift, then suddenly disappeared as if the Rift never existed?"

Oh, the shock on his face was fantastic. If nothing else, when she met up with the Doctor again, she'd share the nuances of this moment. From the shock, to the narrowing of Jack's eyebrows, to the way he seemed to surround her with his personality and his body. She looked up into his dark eyes and continued smiling at him.

"What do you know about the Rift?" He placed his hand under her elbow, guiding her away from the crowd, as she knew he would. She watched as he depressed the button on his Bluetooth connection and spoke soft enough where even her enhanced talent couldn't easily pick up the words.

Once they were in a less crowded area of the nightclub, Jack stopped and turned towards Cyrena. "Who are you and what do you know about the Rift?"

She lifted one brow, knowing it'd annoy him. The Doctor had given her fair warning what would happen if she ever got pulled to Cardiff. She hadn't wanted to believe him, now, now it was too late. Things were in motion that not even she could stop, even if she wanted to. "My name is Cyrene. I know enough about the Rift, Captain Jack Harkness. Just as I know about Torchwood." She sighed softly and placed a hand on Jack's arm, sensing his emotions and the feel of strength from his body. "In fact, you and I have a friend in common. A friend through space and time, one might say."

He pulled her close against him, and she knew it was to prevent anyone near them from overhearing. "How do you know the Doctor? I thought only Martha and I were the only ones in this time--"

"Please," Cyrena drawled. "I met the Doctor a long time ago, though he and I reacquainted ourselves again just recently. When I told him about the growing power of the Rift and it's calling to me, he informed me about you and Torchwood."

"So you only know what the Doctor has told you." The look of relief on his face made him seem younger, slightly more relaxed. She hated to floor him, but if she wanted to keep control on anything that might happen from this moment on, she had to make sure that Jack completely understood who and what she was.

"I know more than that. I've been part of the original creation of Torchwood. In fact, you have me in your files somewhere, though we have never met." She stepped back, but reached out and caressed his cheek. With her free hand, she took out a small business card and put it in his shirt pocked. "My card with my information. Look me up if the Rift energy gets too high in any one area. You might find my skills handy."

Turning around, Cyrene walked towards the exit. This one moment turned out fairly well, though she underestimated the magnetism of Jack. His voice rang out. "What should I call you, Cyrene?"

"Call me, Phoenix. Everyone else did." She stopped and looked over her shoulder. Jack stood against the wall, eyeing her from head to toe. The look in his eyes made her feel alive as a woman and worried as the meta-human she was. "In fact, Jack, if you're smart, you'd access the locked personnel data from before you took over." After blowing him a kiss, Cyrene turned back towards the exit and sauntered out.

The only question she had left was the one she knew would haunt her for a while--

Do I really want Jack to come after me while I do this? Her path was set, but only time would tell if Jack called or if others would be killed before he did as she challenged him. Perhaps the others, like Toshiko or Ianto might help get him to call in a specialist, perhaps he'd be stubborn. Either way, her choice was clear-- bring a measure of peace to the Rift activity before it destroyed England.

Lusting for the Omni-Sexual Man

Captain Jack Harkness. *sigh* I lust for this man in a way I've not lusted for any man since Dr. Daniel Jackson. Seriously. I adore, love, need Daniel Jackson with every fibre of my being. But Jack....Jack makes me want MORE. It's evil in a way, but there's that Bad Boy trying to do Good thing that just so works for me. Really, there aren't many men who can make me wish for time alone in any dark alleyway to....yeah, you get the point.

In fact, it's amazing to see and hear among other romance authors and readers just how much they fancy Captain Jack. Part of it is that he loves anyone regardless of life-form or gender capacity. Part of it is that bravado he has, along with a great helping of caring for others. Yet there's something else. For most women, and for some men-- he's the bad boy who turned good. He's still got those bad boy moments (anyone recalled Naked Hide and Go Seek with Ianto?) that just make us want to be bad with him. Those moments aren't anger filled, but those of loving and fun.

It's funny-- I'm not jealous of Ianto. Nope. But Gwen? She best stick with her new hubby and leave my Jack to Ianto and myself! I admit that there is some great sexual tension between Gwen and Jack and "Something Borrowed" really put a lot there that we only saw hinted at, but dammit...she's got her man. *sniffles*

Torchwood as a series is fantastic. The more I watch, the more I like it. The entire cast is fantastic and the characters have become part of my favourite peoples in my mind. They've joined others like the cast from SG-1, Stargate Atlantis, Wire in the Blood, Dr. Who, and some others. Jack shines in this story, and not because he's the first omnisexual on television, but because he creates opportunities for all the characters to have their moment while with him. The storylines are such that you believe in the possibility of it truly happening under our noses.

But back to the Omni-Sexual male. Why does he charm me? I guess in some ways, his inner demons reflect my own. There are things we learn about him, usually without him wanting anyone to know that truly shows us the bad and the good within Jack. He's become a better person after his run-in with the Doctor and with the Torchwood team, he's coming into his own. Yet, there is that overtly sexual aspect that makes us smile, blush, and wish for him to gaze into our eyes just once. (If he did, I'd either kiss him or stutter...it's a bet on which happens first.)

If you've not seen Torchwood-- start with Season One and enjoy. Come to know one of the sexiest men on television today. But remember-- he's my Captain Jack Harkness...you can look but no touchie! LOLOLOL

Saturday, April 05, 2008

Tampa Bay Area Ren Fest

Went to the Ren Fest. LOVED IT! OMG, the male and I had a great time-- until my fibromyalgia kicked in. But then we shopped. Male realized this was one of those places where Cyn shopping means cool, kick ass shit. So, I wanted to post some of the links of the places we went. Visit these people-- buy their stuff. Seriously, you will NOT be disappointed!

http:www.puzzleringsbypepi.com
www.badgerblades.com
ladysmith.esty.com
www.legacyforge.net
www.heirloomjewelry.us

I bought stuff, haggled, had a fabulous time. THanks to these people-- they made my day so much the brighter!

Friday, April 04, 2008

Friday Flash-- Balance Blinded and Justice Revealed

Okay... this is something I've had in the works for a while, but hadn't found the time to really dive into. I know that SOME OF YOU were hoping for the next Open Up and Say Aah stuff, but you're going to have to wait a bit. LMAO But this story-- has potential, though this rough draft needs much more work.

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She placed her hands down on the table, staring at the long nail tips. These hands could make or break someone, she thought sadly. These hands have broken many people in the name of balance. At what price does maintaining balance become vigilante justice? When does the hero become one of the bad guys?

Kiera Petra heard someone enter the study but refused to look up. "Yes?"

"Kiera, it's happened again. You're needed," the man said, walking up to her. He placed his hand on her shoulder. "I know this takes so much out of you, but what other choice is there?"

Turning to look out the bay window, Kiera sighed heavily. "There is never a choice, is there? How much longer can I give? What happens when I reach the point of no return? Then what, Trevor?"

Trevor shrugged letting his hand fall as Kiera walked away from him. "I don't know, Kiera. I wish I could say your time was done and it's time for someone else to be the 'Balance'. But, you've yet to have found your balance."

Kiera whipped around. "Don't you think I know that? Every day, as I continue in this life, I have to fear my lack of personal balance. I strive for balance every day. I keep to the tenets every day and every moment. But I must do what I must."

Her long legs carried her to the door. Glancing over her shoulder, her dark, feral eyes glanced at her brother. "Coming? Or are you just going to stand there while another aspect of balance is destroyed?"

She slammed out of the room, her energy still lingering behind. The last thing she heard was a low chuckle from her brother that sounded slightly....evil.

Her boots clicked across the parquet floor from the study towards the den. She knew that her heart was racing. Whatever that was coming was something that only she could handle. She was tired of being the “Balance”, of being the only one who could make the Chaosians and the Lawfuls both behave. The other Scalans wielded power, but she was the chosen one. Happy, happy, joy, joy.

Not even her brother realized the problems she faced lately. The urge to say, “Fuck it!” and allow chaos to overwhelm order for a while was so tempting. Being so alone was costing her more than she could say. But whom could she share the aloneness with? Who could handle the pain that she dealt with daily? No one. That is why the Balance was always alone.

Glaring at the sliding doors, Kiera used her telekinetic ability to open them. She saw the others gathered in the room and sighed heavily. They all turned and faced her.

"Oh look, it's the home crew," she remarked snidely. "What brings you all out to Avesbury?"

The others smiled knowingly at Kiera. Without them saying a word, she knew exactly why they were there. Making a mental memo to beat her brother unmercifully for his interference, she let out a sigh. "Let me guess, Trevor decided I was on edge and hiding away from the rest of you for too long, right?"

A man who looked like the original inspiration for Dracula came to her side. "Listen, Trevor is concerned. You've been pushing yourself without a break. None of us can be completely alone; you above all else know that."

Kiera closed her eyes briefly, trying to keep control of her spiraling emotions. She opened them to find Mikhail staring at her. "Misha, listen, I'm fine. Tired, working too hard, but I'm fine."

A snort filled the room, the power almost tangible. "You walk the edge, sister-friend. Don't think we can't see it. You're the Balance and yet you walk the chasm between order and chaos with little regard if you would fall in either direction."

Mikhail glanced at the woman. "Nefertari, come now. We're here to help Kiera, not to condemn her. She is the fulcrum of power."

"Yes and still she doesn't use all that she has."

Kiera resisted the urge to grip the Egyptian queen's neck and squeeze it until it snapped. The thought of using violence had been growing; somehow, she was feeling like she was losing control of who she was after all. However, Nefertari was correct; Kiera only used a small portion of what was available to her. "If I wanted to be the Big Bad, I could be. However, I'm not, Tari. We both know that abusing my powers is something that could lead to further breakdown in balance between order and chaos."

Another man chimed in. "If we allow her to go unchecked and use all that she can tap, then what damage can she wrought?"

"Wise words from a wise man, Sean," Mikhail responded. "Kiera, we're here because you've been working without the other members here. Your personal balance is almost gone."

Kiera's eyes blazed. "And what shall be done about that? We all know the damn prophecy! We all know that the time has passed for it to be. I do, as I must! Do not remind me again that I'm a failure in a personal way. I live with that daily."

Mikhail's arms wrapped around her, pulling her against his warm body in order to offer her comfort she never sought. "Shh, it's okay, Kiera. We're worried about you. You've taken the world upon your shoulders as Atlas. You're not the only one whose responsibility it is to keep chaos from overriding order. We're worried for you. You've been alone for so long, caring for so much."

Nefertari placed her hand on Kiera's back. "Listen to me, Kiera. You must find your balance. Go find it; we'll take care of this new problem."

"What if..." she started to say when the others shook their heads.