I, Explore

Editor's Note

Dear readers,

Hi. Pull up a chair and stay awhile. We'll be exploring shortly. But first, an explanation.

According to Google, to 'explore' means to 'travel in or through (an unfamiliar country or area) in order to learn about or familiarize oneself with it.'

It is our goal, as the writers of 'I, Ache', to undertake this journey past the familiar waters of the Maichard fanfic world in order to learn more about ourselves as writers. For nothing is discovered if one does not strive to explore the unknown, or at least the unfamiliar. For who knows what else lies beyond the horizon, what new ground, new characters, new plots are just waiting to be discovered. Via a series of experimental prompts, we are hoping to challenge ourselves to expand our writing beyond RJ and Maine's stories (don't worry, we will still be there with 'I, Ache').

This issue's five prompts are:

Teddy bear

Apple

Moon

Boat

Terrorist (yes, you read that right)

As you read these stories, please pay attention to the prompts. Some may be an important plot point, some may merely be used as a prop. Hopefully none will stick out like a sore thumb. However each one is used, our goal here is to expand our creativity and imagination, and provide you readers with a great story along the way.

As we extend the boundaries of our creative writing past Maichard fanfic and erotica, hopefully we will learn something that will improve our craft along this voyage that we can bring back to port for you, our waiting readers, to enjoy, whether it involves a world with a certain Mr. Faulkerson and a certain Ms. Mendoza, or not.

Yours truly,

leafofpage  (Chris)

(on behalf of Sunshine who's on leave)