Stickmaker

The Angel of Chicago: Part 9

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The Angel of Chicago

Part Nine: Conclusions

by

Rodford Edmiston

"Did you get any sleep?" asked Arielle, the next morning, as she entered the kitchen and found Melody still where she had left her the night before.

"A few hours," said Melody, barely not yawning. "Your father insisted."

"You've been at this nearly twenty-four hours!"

The Angel of Chicago: Part 8

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The Angel of Chicago

Part Eight: Conclusions

by

Rodford Edmiston

There was actually a hatch in the roof, accessible through the attic. Once Melody was there and in position to see in the proper direction Arielle climbed out the closest window with the phone and jumped up beside her.

"This actually isn't the first time someone has had to do this," said Arielle, grinning, as she handed the phone to Melody. "What?"

The Angel of Chicago: Part 6

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I've been a bit busy the past couple of days - including dealing with a plumber - so this is a bit short. I just hope it's readable.

The Angel of Chicago

Part Six: Collisions

by

Rodford Edmiston

Melody and Arielle didn't have much time to catch up.

"Unfortunately, Dad wants to see you as soon as you are unpacked."

"Give me five minutes," said Melody, even as she turned and hurried towards the bedroom.

"Five minutes?" said Arielle, laughing. "How unladylike!"

The Angel of Chicago: Part 5

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I am a bit concerned that some parts of this are too similar to the previous Masks story. I didn't want this to be all-angel, all the time so for now am focusing on other characters, performing investigations. Don't worry; Malak returns soon, as does the action.

The Angel of Chicago

Part Five: Collusions

by

Rodford Edmiston

Blackpool emerged from shadow into the darkened storeroom. His informant's floorplan had been good enough for him to find the connection he needed. Now to see if the rest of his information was as accurate.

The Angel of Chicago: Part 4

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The Angel of Chicago

Part Four: Revelations

by

Rodford Edmiston

Most of the preliminaries were simply Melody verifying some of what she had read about Arielle. Who seemed both surprised and pleased the reporter had read her book. There really wasn't time for more than that, though. Despite her comment about the service, the waiter arrived to take their orders shortly after Melody sat.

The Angel of Chicago: Part 3

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The Angel of Chicago

Part Two: Fact Finding

by

Rodford Edmiston

Melody Gundersen scowled as her boss, Carl Gadding, entered. She wasn't hung over, thanks to the marvels of modern medicine, but she was short on sleep and caffeine was contraindicated for the hangover cure she'd taken. She was actually out of it enough she needed a moment to realize he was carrying an old-fashioned print book; what they called a hardback, she remembered, after a moment more.

"Did you catch the awards show on the 3V last night?"

Angel of Chicago

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An exploration of how the world might be different if people with powers had suddenly begun appearing in 1919.

This was inspired by a RPG I was in. I played Aaron, and because of various things missed the last two sessions. I felt there was still a lot of story to tell, at least for him.

So, the big boss was defeated years ago. The other major characters died, or retired, or literally left the planet. What happens to the world, and the few empowered still around from that era?

The Angel of Chicago: Part 1

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This is a test of the waters for a new project. It is not part of the Masks series, but inspired by the tabletop RPG I'm currently in. The next post will give some background information.

The Angel of Chicago

Part One: A Model of Civil Disobedience

by

Rodford Edmiston

Masks 19: Part 3

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Masks XIX:

A Disturbance of the Peace

by

Rodford Edmiston

Part Three

The next day the news of this latest problem with the case broke. Politicians of all stripes were making hay out of the evidence being missing. However, one in particular was very outspoken about this development.

"Talk about suspects," said Sally, pointing to the TV as a particular very well dressed middle-aged man came on, "there's one of the usual."

Masks 19: Part 2

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Masks XIX:

A Disturbance of the Peace

by

Rodford Edmiston

Part Two

"Do you trust him?" said Sally, once we were back out on the street.

"For this? Yes. It's in his best interest to find out who is making trouble in his town. Trouble which could cause him to lose clients and maybe even have to move again."

"So, he's a super?"

"I'm not really sure. I do know that he's been in this game since the late Forties at least."

She looked a bit surprised at this, but only a bit.

"Someone Mack Risk introduced you to?"

Masks 19

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Lawrence Hawthorne and Sally Driscoll are asked to solve a multiple homicide in which Bureau of Special Resources agent Doro is the prime suspect. Brade wants the pair to perform a parallel investigation as a safeguard against government coverup. The result is Larry dusting off skills learned from one of the greatest hard boiled detective who ever lived.

Freddy On the Loose: Part 25

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TFOS: Freddy On The Loose, Story 25
Return to Khum-Waht-Meh!

by

Rodford Edmiston

Note: This story uses background and concepts from the Teenagers From Outer Space role-playing game, Copyright and Trademarked R. Talsorian Games, Inc. The characters and story are Copyright 2017 Rodford Edmiston Smith.

At school the next day the trip and its events were still major topics among both staff and students. Many others were also discussing those events, but we'll leave them out of this for now.

Masks 18: Part 18

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Part Eighteen

"I'm not sure how seriously to take this," said Special Agent Sanders, concerned. "Either this guy is a raving lunatic, completely divorced from reality or he's the secret power behind one of the nation's major political parties! As well as at least two of its biggest political scandals!"

"Who says he can't be both?" said Special Agent Thompson, sourly. "Or that he's the only one? In either party?"

"Please leave your cynicism outside the office," said Special Agent in Charge Covington. "Focus on what we know about this case."

Masks 18: Part 17

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Masks XVIII

by

Rodford Edmiston

Part Seventeen

Once again, I was the outsider protecting magical types as they worked on something so esoteric they couldn't adequately describe it to me. I had thought I would be left out of this stage - Fen had even told me after Oak Island that my part was over - but multiple factors had conspired to change that situation. Not least of them the location they had picked. It turned out that Fen hadn't known who now owned the land where they wanted to perform their spell.

Masks 18: Part 16

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Masks XVIII

by

Rodford Edmiston

Part Sixteen

The caller ID told me who was behind the ring. I sighed, considered not answering, then sighed again and picked up the receiver.

"I assume you're not calling about the latest political mess," I said. I was glad Sievers was safe, and feeling rather afraid about what those who had ordered her seized might do next. However, Fen would say that was all fugitive and outside our mission purview, and we needed to focus on our own, longer-term tasks.

Masks 18: Part 12

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Masks XVIII

by

Rodford Edmiston

Part Twelve

The Toyota Corolla wagon had been equipped with a siren and the same sort of behind-the-grill lights as unmarked police cars. Vic used them, as well as a magnetic mount light on the roof. However, as she hit the exit ramp she turned the lights and siren off and pulled the roof light in. Her orders were to get there quickly, but to approach quietly.

Masks 18: Part 11

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I was under the weather Friday and rather sick Saturday. See the October 7 post at: https://stickmaker.dreamwidth.org/ for a brief account.

I'm feeling better today, and posting the next installment as scheduled.

Masks XVIII

by

Rodford Edmiston

Part Eleven

"If our new facility hadn't been ready," said Dr. Nief, "the referring hospital would have treated him. I've spoken with the chief surgeon there and he admits they would not have taken the precautions we did."

Masks 18: Part 10

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Masks XVIII

by

Rodford Edmiston

Part Ten

Randy led his family on a leisurely walk to the volcano, on a path which took them through the dormitory section of the school. He and Karen waved casually at the few adults and students they saw. One in particular caught Roy's attention.

"Who's that girl and why is she gray?" he asked, making no attempt to keep his voice down.

"That's Hazel," said Randy, quietly. "Her body is largely iron. She's one of our rescues. She finished high school here and is now one of our physical trainers."

Masks 18: Part 9

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Masks XVIII

by

Rodford Edmiston

Part Nine

The election seemed to take many people by surprise. Indeed, some expressed disbelief that it was that time again, already, a few wondering aloud if the election was being held early due to the war. Once it was over, millions in the US saw the results on the news and screamed that no-one had told them there was an election, and they'd been cheated out of their chance to vote. This complaint was heard repeatedly during the holidays. Some even said this when they saw the inauguration...

Masks 18: Part 8

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Masks XVIII

by

Rodford Edmiston

Part Eight

Energia had trouble flying at first. Then she got the idea of using her magnetic powers to anchor herself to the fixed pieces of metal all around. Once that was done she used a combination of her flight and magnetic powers to pull herself towards the fire station.

Masks 18: Part 7

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Masks XVIII

by

Rodford Edmiston

Part Seven

After an hour of this, though, Blue Impact decided they had enough data.

"We have the location of the person most likely causing the disturbance isolated to within a few centimeters," she said. "The longer we wait the more damage the storm does."

"Yeah, it's definitely getting worse," said Gadgetive, with a quick check of satellite photos. Though just hearing and feeling
the wind and rain should have been enough.

Masks 18: Part 6

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Masks XVIII

by

Rodford Edmiston

Part Six

"Oh, now that's good work," said the lead Detective, as he hurried over. "We had just gotten word he was no longer at home and were about to notify you, when your call came in."

"Girls, this is Detective Sandersen," said Blue Impact, very deliberately not mentioning that they had found the stakeout and followed the guy here from his home.

"Have you searched him?" said the Detective.

Masks 18: Part 5

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Masks XVIII

by

Rodford Edmiston

Part Five

Another night, another stakeout.

"You sure that will work?" said Energia, as Gadgetive hunched over the display built into the dash of the flyer. "We're running out of time, you know."

"Yeah," said the gadgeteer, absently. "That sensor pod I hung on the front hardpoint will detect etheric disturbances. I've already mapped the background and masked it out."

"What if he comes up through the ground, like he has a few times before?" said Blue Impact.

Masks 18: Part 4

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Masks XVIII

by

Rodford Edmiston

Part Four

"There was a robbery last night, while we were on watch, right under our noses," said Blue Impact, angrily, as she came into the kitchen for breakfast. She had, as was her custom, checked for messages and alerts immediately after coming downstairs. "Perhaps literally."

"I swear, my sensors were working properly!" said Gadgetive, for once eating with the others.

"So were mine," said Energia, meaning her inherent super senses.

Masks 18 - Chaos Theory

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Energia still thought it a bit odd that she was graduating with some folks who had started the year before she came to Ramsey. It just happened that some of them had needed an extra year. For Vic and Alex this was due to taking remedial classes, since both of them missed a lot of high school. Of course, the Shilmek War had also been a factor, along with the post-war cleanup affecting Vic's schedule.

Masks XVIII


by
Rodford Edmiston

Masks 18: Part 2

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Masks XVIII

by

Rodford Edmiston

Part Two

The two men had known each other for a couple of years, but this was a first date, so naturally, they were nervous. Even though both were in their early thirties, and were both professionals in related fields, and both single for too long.

They were at a small table in a back corner. Something nice and private. Even though the management was known to be gay-friendly, the two men found this far more suitable for now. Harry tried to make small talk as they passed the time until the waiter arrived.

Masks 18

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They're back! The masked folks - as well as those with powers who don't feel a need for masks and costumes - have returned with a new set of adventures!

The Shilmek War is three years over. There's a new President, and the US - along with much of the world - is still rebuilding. Unfortunately, some people are taking advantage of both the distraction caused by the recovery and the budget cuts needed to help pay for the rebuilding.

Castle Freak: Part 7

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Crew Grue

by

Rodford Edmiston

"This is not a bra," said Darryl, disgustedly glaring at the filmy green thing. "It's wrapping tissue with ambitions."

"It's rayon," said Dot, her tone chiding. "It'll hold."

"I'm not worried about it holding. I'm worried about showing through it."

"The only way anyone would be able to see through this," said Dot, playfully holding the bra against Darryl's perky breasts, "is if you take your blouse off. Since you're wearing it to entice your man..."

Castle Freak: Part 6

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Crew Cue Clew

by

Rodford Edmiston

"So who you gonna call about this?" Daryl asked, after supper that night. "I mean, I figure this isn't something you can go to the local police with, but what about some of those government connections you have?"

"Believe me, they have been notified," sighed Dr. Frique, as he settled into a recliner with his favorite evening paper. "However, Dr. Browning has his own allies among the rich and powerful. Besides being quite good a subterfuge."

Castle Freak: Part 5

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Crews Ship

by

Rodford Edmiston

"A curse?" said Dot, after Daryl insisted on being private before revealing any secrets.

Dot might have been foolish complying, but curiosity can sometimes override even survival instincts. Besides, Daryl had been a fun and mannerly companion so far. Hopefully, being female wouldn't change that.

"Well, yeah," sighed the uncomfortably female Daryl. "I've been working at the Frique place..."

"Well, that explains things!" humphed Dot.

Castle Freak: Part 4

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One Crew Over The Cuckoo's Nest

by

Rodford Edmiston

The small, Asian woman was provocatively dressed, in heels, a slinky, low-cut dress and a modest amount of both jewelry and makeup. She sat at the bar, sipping a Scotch and soda which was mostly Scotch. Waiting.

"Evenin', ma'am," said Oliver, as he walked into the Frique family den.

Castle Freak: Part 3

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Crew, Lewd and Loud

by

Rodford Edmiston

That evening Daryl and Dr. Frique were back in the dungeon, at the entrance to Quatrus' lair.

The door opened shortly after Dr. Frique knocked. Quatrus seemed eager to see them.

"I have most of the test results," the younger Frique announced, waving a pair of manila folders, as his uncle ushered them in. "The DNA tests aren't ready yet, but I suspect they'll show Daryl's female form to be a normal, human, Asian woman."

Castle Freak

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The rental car slowly rolled up the sweeping drive, as if the occupant were admiring the surroundings. Or was uncertain this was the right place. Or perhaps was intimidated by the large - and apparently genuine - castle at the head of the drive. Most likely the cause was a combination of those factors.


Castle Freak


by
Rodford Edmiston

Castle Freak: Part 2

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Castle Freak: Part 2 2700 Words

Getting To Know Crew

by

Rodford Edmiston

"Hmmm..." said Uncle Quatrus.

"'Hmmm...'? repeated Daryl, concerned. Perhaps because the large man seemed to be staring at her chest.

"Hmmm..." Quatrus repeated, nodding. He straightened, which let Daryl relax a bit. "Quite interesting. Do you happen to know why she chose this particular form?"

Castle Freak

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Daryl Potts was your typical young handyman, good at working around homes and construction sites. He had a lot to learn about life. Especially about how to treat women. Especially women who might just have a talent for magic... and curses.

Castle Freak: Part 1

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The next Masks stories is over 21k words and only about a quarter of the way through, so here's something to hold you in the meantime.

There's a lot of humor in this tale, but it's darker than my usual. Also, as with Weave of Life it ends after some immediate problems are solved but with the larger situation still needing to be addressed.

I began this set of stories in 2000 and the last installment was in 2002; which gives you a clue as to how fast (or slowly) I write.

Castle Freak: Part 1

Strange Crew

by

Rodford Edmiston

Weave of Life: Part 8

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Weave of Life

by

Rodford Edmiston

Part Eight

"God..." groaned Sandra, collapsing on the bed in the bedroom of the safe house as her "clothing" vanished.

"You still look like a doll," said Thea.

She glared at her... and changed into a man. A naked man. With an erection.

"Hey!"

"Now, what happened? It better be good, too. I was making serious progress."

"Could you at least cover yourself?!"

Weave of Life: Part 6

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Weave of Life

by

Rodford Edmiston

Part Six

Sandra arrived at Thea's bungalow shortly after breakfast the next morning, while the occupant was still washing her dishes. She allowed Thea to resume being Theo, then began debriefing him.

"Looks like I better give you a crash course in girl defense techniques," said Sandra, not quite laughing, when told about being cornered and rescued. "So, did you make use of any of the 'hygiene' items I gave you?"

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