Storyteller's: A Short-Story Collaboration to Shock & Awe

By Hollywood, Funny Gotay, David Hackford and Tobias Frank

Four author's are celebrating their recent successes by vacationing in a cabin out in a mountain forest of Tennessee. During this celebration,the four friends get into an argument over who tells the best stories and a contest is formed. Per agreement, the four have to tell at least two-stories,while being video-taped. This leads to many a tale from supernatural, to urban, to straight out bizarre. The stakes are risky,though not quite as high as when the 'Storyteller' himself becomes involved[I created him several years ago. He is my supernatural narrator who tells ALL of my stories. He was created by the Lord to record, and observe here on earth. His origin's lay within each novel]. Once the 'Storyteller' joins the quartet,things go far off-the-track. This is Volume #1 in a trilogy. So what we have here is nine stories within a story, which turns into several magical adventures.

• Language: English
• Publisher: BookBaby
• Release date: May 20, 2013
• ISBN: 9781626759725

Book preview

PREVIOUS TITLES IN THE STORYTELLER SERIES:

[By: HOLLYWOOD]

TWISTED

The impossible enemy, is the one you can’t even see

FROM SCRATCH

A hitman’s life and legacy

STORYTELLERS

A collaboration of short-stories to shock and awe

Authors: Hollywood, Gotay, Frank, Hackford

RUNNING TO MILEY

Inspiration has a name, and it is---Miley Cyrus

COMING SOON:

FRIENDS

It’s not what you know, it’s who's watching your back

Hollywood

HIGHWAY SONG

Sometimes the answers you seek can only be found, on the open road

Hollywood 

THUNDERING HEARTS

When your most fervent passions break free, the consequences can be explosive

Hollywood

CAMILLE’S RUN

If you win, this trophy will be---your survival

Hollywood and Gotay

211

A bank-robbery that became personal

Hollywood

LIFE IN THE FASTLANE

When kindred spirits meet, all hell breaks loose

Hollywood

COPPERHEAD ROAD

A Rock-n-Roll Parable

Hollywood

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS AND DEDICATIONS

Since all three of us wish to acknowledge the same person, we’ve come together to say; Thank you, Hollywood.  Your help with our writing ventures has been invaluable.  We appreciate how much you believe in us, and wish you nothing but the best. We appreciate you bringing us in on this project. And, we hope it meets all of your expectations.

—David Hackford

—Dartanian Gotay

—Tobias A. Frank

            I dedicate these stories, and this first published endeavor to my mother, Nikki Hackford, who, no matter what, never ever stopped believing in me.

            I also wish to Thank my Aunt Lynn, who made it possible for me to enter the stories you are about to read, into the Writer’s Digest short-story competitions.  Thanks once more to my mother, for never giving-up hope.  I’m finally doing it right, mom.  My Love to both of you.

David Hackford

I dedicate these tales to my hardworking father, Aramis Gotay, and my Loving mother, Lucy Gotay.  I also wish to add my beautiful children:  Lil’ Funny, Bonkas, Manzy, D’Nayga, Tajhe, and (My baby sis) Dormis Gotay.

            Thank you all for always being by my side, through both good and bad.  Also, for your continued patience, and support in my endeavor to become an accomplished fiction writer.  Love you all with everything in my heart!  GOD BLESS you, family!

Dartanian Funny Gotay

I would first, and foremost, like to Thank the Heavenly Father, LORD JESUS CHRIST.  Without him, none of this would be possible.

Next, I wish to give dedication to my amazing, and wonderful, children, their mothers, my siblings, and the best parents in the whole world, my loving mother:  Mildred Frank, and my honorable father:  Elmer Anthony, a great source of strength, and inspiration.  Also, I am blessed, for I have a second kind, and caring, mother:  Margret Whitaker, another great source of strength, and inspiration.

Without all of the above mentioned, their love, and support, my life would not be the blessing I know it to be.

Tobias A. Frank

First, I want to say a few words to my protégés:  I firmly believe that all three of you; Hackford, Funny, and Chuck, are on the road to greatness.  We’ve come a long way together, since you guys first picked-up a pencil, with big author dreams.  I’ve watched you grow, as you managed to wrestle your own demons within, to crack the sometimes thick shell on your creativity.  That in itself is no easy feat.  However, you surprised me.  You stayed with-it, no matter how hard I made-it, and I did make it rough.  I had to.  Because, if you can’t take the critiques I hand out, then what the world of official  publishing has to offer, you wouldn’t last the first round.  Believe me—I know..  Yet, you made-it through.

Now, look at you…Coming-out in your first published efforts, and as a collective no doubt!  That is a lot harder than you might imagine.  Getting four creative, and opinionated, people to agree all on the same thing, is probably why this sort of novel, has really never been done before.  Not like this one anyway.  But we did…and because we did, you guys are now getting the opportunity for new fans, and a thriving legal career you may have never thought possible once upon a time.

I wish you guys nothing but the best, and I’ll help in any way I can.

Your Friend

For All Time;

HOLLYWOOD

Now, I must Thank those that mean so much to me outside the prison walls.  My Father:  Jimmy D. Bandy. My Cousin:  Ronald Austin(may he Rest In Peace).  And my Great Uncle:  Fred Spice.

Also, I can never, ever, forget two special Friends:  Jennifer and Robby Blanks, from Blanks books and literary computer services.  All the efforts you made on my behalf have been golden, and priceless.  Without your dedications, and skills, my career would be non existent.  Thank you.

Of course I can never forget the main dedication:  To my Heavenly Father, the LORD Jesus Christ—Thank You, and Praise You, for all that You do everyday, and for my entire life.                                         Yours Always and Forever;

HOLLYWOOD

FYI

The collection of short-stories you are about to read have several bonds that tie them, and one such, is the bond of friendly competition.

            You see, nearly every tale in the following pages were entrants in the Writers Digest Short-stories contest (both the 4,000 word or less, and, the 1,500 word or less) of 2007!

            While 'Hollywood' has been published with full novels, short-stories, and poems, for a few years, the other authors listed here, are his protégés.  All four were incarcerated together at Edgefield F. C. I. in Edgefield, South Carolina, and pooled their resources constantly to help each other with this living craft called writing.

You, as the readers, must be forewarned that while these fables are written for entertainment purposes only, they are geared to shock, and awe, in several different ways.  They are not geared for youthful audiences, and the cleaned-up versions written for the contests mentioned above, are not the versions that will appear here.

In-fact, the original, lengthy, and uncut, versions, are the ones you will receive in the pages before you.  For the contests, 'cuts' had to be made, yet, there are no such restrictions here.

We (the four of us) sincerely hope that you enjoy these yarns as much as we did in creating, and, spinning them for you.

GOD BLESS you, and your families, and each, and every one of our fans.  Without you (avid readers) successful futures for us, would not be possible.

—HOLLYWOOD                                                                                                                                                  —TOBIAS A. FRANK                                                                                                                                            —DAVID HACKFORD                                                                                                                                         —DARTANIAN FUNNY GOTAY

Copyright ©: May 2004

RE: ‘FRIENDS’ Author: Michael Bandy

Library of Congress

‘STORYTELLER’ ORIGIN

"I am the 'Storyteller'... I am an observer of space, and time. One of many actually, and, my ‘post’ is what you call Earth.  My sole purpose is to observe, evaluate, and on occasion—interact with you.  You know—your kind:  Mortals, humans, mankind.

My years number into the eons, and you’ve all had an encounter with me, and/or, my kind.  Though, in all fairness—you probably never even knew-it…

I am that ice-ball in your stomach when you’re about to do something that’s going to make you regret-it, or, when you’re doing something wrong, and you know it.  I’m that inner-voice, sometimes, when you’re about to make an important decision.  Especially one that I, and my Creator—THE CREATOR—know is going to be life altering!  Whether you listen to-it, or not, is entirely your choice.  All of you were made (each and every one of you) with the Gift of 'Free will', but--that is another subject, for another time…I have digressed. Back to the matter at hand…I am that sensation on the back of your neck when you feel as though you are being watched, and you turn, but—there is no-one there!

I am also, much, much, more than that…I can interact on so many more levels, and, sometimes, it gives me great pleasure to do so.  My interactions, of course, are supposed to be on a limited basis, but—can be whatever I choose!

I can be punished for certain things, and have been reprimanded from time-to-time.  For, like you, there have been 'instances' that I felt it was worth the consequences.  Yes, I can be punished, for even I answer to a Higher-Power, though immortal I surely be…

I’ve come before you today, not only to let you know of my existence, but, to share one of my endless array of tales, and recordings.  For you see, even after all the time that has passed, I still find you humans to be the most fascinating of all creatures!

You see, to be as vulnerable, and weak, as you appear to be anatomically—the strength that you can draw-on from your spirits, your—souls?—can cause you to do things, and accomplish things, that border on the supernatural!  And that is something I know quite a-bit about…

"Now, when you combine that with an indomitable-will, and an unconquerable mind-set—The possibilities are almost endless!  I cannot even begin to count all of the things that I’ve witnessed over the vast centuries, but, take my word for-it—there are many!

For my experiments, and the fables I choose to regale you with—I do not choose those as you might think I would…I do not select policemen, or law enforcement agents, or firemen, nor anyone of that ilk, where it is their profession to help people—for that is to be expected.  After-all, that is what they do—is it not?  And so, when they do their job—where is the surprise, or wonderment in that?

No…Where I am most fascinated is ones who are waaaay more surprising than that!  The ones who are somewhat—tarnished?—shall we say?  Quite possibly the least likely to accomplish anything worth mentioning.  Also, I am fascinated to no-end with those of a dark nature.  I am neither evil, nor good.  I am neutral.  And as such, equally curious with both sides of the cosmic coin.  The never-ending battle, and struggle, of both entities!  Therefore, I am drawn much-more to the ones deemed—anti-heroes…Underdogs, and scraps of society that, for the most-part, are overlooked, and/or, cast aside…

For example:  Hit-men, ex-convicts, bouncers, bank robbers, bikers, disillusioned war veterans, etcetera, etcetera, etcetera…The list is long, and continuous, but, in its own way---distinguished.

I select subjects by their auras…I choose them from their auras because that is their real essence!  Not their persona's, nor what society has labeled them, but—their true core.  The different shades, and exquisite colors of these auras (Not their epidermis, mind you) speak to me.  Each individual one, enlightens me, to that particular persons strengths, weaknesses, vices, flaws, and unique character (be-it sterling, or—not!)  And that is what makes for fascinating, and intriguing, adventures, and tales, that will entertain you to no-end, every-bit as much as they have myself, and those like me!

You see, I do not choose people by what they do.  None of my kind has, nor will they!  It is not what we were created for!  If it is moral judgments, or other such things as this that you seek—you’ll have to speak with others of higher-power than we.  Our existence is for one purpose, and one purpose only—to record, and, in your case—to reveal stories of incredible infatuation for us!

I do hope that you enjoy every one of them as much as we have.  As you will discover, the amount of such tales, and events, I have to share with you are almost—endless!

My name has been written in the stars, in a coded language, that is far beyond any mortal's comprehension…This is to prevent you from ever calling me by name.  For if you could, it would make me materialize before you whenever you wish…This can never be allowed!  However—for the sake of being your guide on this, and many, many, journeys to come, you may call me—'The Storyteller...

I vow this to you—once you enter my world of action, suspense, drama, mystery, and even supernatural phenomenon—you will forever return for more…

Now—sit-back, relax, and allow your mind the freedom to absorb this exciting fable I have in store for you this evening…I doubt seriously, that you’ll be disappointed.  Enjoy!"

INTRODUCTION'S

"Storyteller here, to bring before you a collage of tales that should feed your mind, your appetite for the supernatural, the spiritual, the bizarre, and, for those where it applies—morbid curiosity!

            Every story is, however, designed to shock and awe you, with 'twist's that should pleasantly blindside you, and (hopefully) entertain you to no-end.

            With yet a further 'twist', I, your immortal Storyteller, have decided that this particular ensemble can best be communicated, not only by oration, but, my interaction as well…

            That’s right!  As you’ve learned, no doubt, in my origins, from time-to-time, I feel I simply must get involved with the subjects I study, and record, and this—is one of those times!

            Tonight, I take you to a secluded area in a vast forest, in Tennessee.  Four extremely good friends are seated around a well-burning campfire.  The comforting sweet smell of smoldering cedar fills the air.  The occasional snap, and pop, from the fire.  The clink of glass from imbibement of aged scotches, brandies, and various ales, and lagers.  There’s also the unmistakable sounds of friendship, and camaraderie…

Four friends who are accomplished authors on a getaway to brainstorm, and concentrate, on their next literary endeavors.

            Of course, what would a getaway be without some merriment along the way, hmmm?

Now that the day has ended, their efforts placed to the side, the quartet lounge outside in the tranquil summer breezes, the Tennessee outdoors has to offer.

Their merriment is about to be cut-short, for I am about to make my presence known, with an offer they can not refuse.  Tests must be performed!  Gauntlets run, and mettles judged!  You see, what has drawn me, is that, while accomplished, they are now debating about who the better 'storyteller' is…While it has begun in good-spirits, I detect an undertone of prideful vanity.

No good can come from this!  It is exactly this sort of thing that has crushed great alliances of all types over the eons, and it must not be allowed here!

So, come!  Join me, as I observe the boastful bantering of David Hackford, Dartanian Funny Gotay, Tobias ‘Chuck’ Frank, and 'Hollywood'.  For I must decide what paces to put them through for punishment, and, lessons to be learned.  In order to do that properly, I must first listen carefully to their arrogant rantings, and, decipher just exactly how much they need to experience.  Once I’ve garnered all I need, you can see just what is required in order to put them back on the right path…

With that, I urge you—turn the page!  I promise:  It’ll be anything but disappointing!  And, by now, you should know the value of the word from—

The Storyteller!

*                                                                            *                                                                          *

BEFORE A FALL

"Crazy!  But that’s how it goes!

Million's of people, living as foes!

Maybe!  It’s not too-late!

To learn how to Love, and forget how to Hate!

Mental wounds not healing, life’s a bitter shame!

I’m going off-the-rails on a Crazy Train!"

—Crazy Train

—Ozzy Ozbourne

            "What in the hell  do you mean, you think you tell the best stories?!"  Gotay rails, "My stories have been selling just as much as yours, Dave!  Just cause you won a few contests, and have that big-ass house in Melbourne, Florida, don’t think it makes you the 'greatest of all-time'!  I had shit like that before I went to prison, and, I didn’t have to write one damn book to get-it, either! 

"Hell!  Chuck has a place as big, if not bigger, than yours in Augusta, Georgia!  His stories have been kickin’-ass right along with all of ours, so don’t start gettin’ the ‘big-head’, all of a sudden!"

"That’s not what I said, Funny!  Hackford answers, You’re puttin’ words in my mouth.  Not once did I mention ‘greatest of all time’.  What I said was; for the amount of time, that my stories have been out on the shelves, I have surpassed many other authors that have come before me—that’s all!

"Far be-it from me, to 'throw salt' on anyone’s work—especially you guys!  I’m only going by the sales time averages from past authors and, well—the numbers speak for themselves—I'm just sayin'!"  He raises his eyebrows, and throws his hands wide for emphasis.

"Well, don’t let a few good numbers raise your 'ego' past where it needs to be.  In case you ain’t been payin’ attention, we all here because our stuff has sold through-the-roof, and our fans need a new fix!  So don’t go thinkin’ it’s all you, dawg!"  Gotay informs him.

Hollywood!  Tobias ‘Chuck’ Frank, speaks-up, "Now look what’s got started.  The ‘greatest author debate’.  The funny part about it is, that all of us wouldn’t be at this point, if you hadn’t come-up with that idea for a collaboration.  It’s amazing to me how quickly some forget—don’t you think?"

Before Hollywood can answer, Hackford interrupts, "I haven’t forgotten anything!  I know that!  That isn’t even what we’re talking about.  How in the hell did we let one little comment about great sales expand to cover so many subjects that were never included in the first place?!  That’s what I’d like to know!

"I just happen to notice that my sales have been doing things that a lot of past authors haven’t, and, I was feelin’ pretty-good about-it!  Now, though, after seeing where all this is headin’ I wish I’d never brought it up!  I didn’t know that for one mentioned fact, my friends were all gonna bite-my-head-off!"

Relax, Dave, Hollywood answers, "No-one’s bitin’-your-head-off.  It’s just the way that statement came-out, it seemed—well—a little arrogant.  Considerin’ the company you’re in.  Surely you can see where what you said was just a little inflammatory, right?"

Hackford shrugs his slim shoulders, but, nods his head, "Okay. Yeah.  I can see that.  But, that was not how I meant for it to come-out."

I know.  Hollywood answers, "It probably sounded just fine in your head.  I’ve been-there-and-done-that.  It sure does suck at times.  Especially if you’re talking to an extremely hot girl!"

Chuck laughs, "Hell,   I think we all know what that’s like!  Everything soundin’ great in your head, then, when you speak, somehow—it comes out all messed-up!"

"Been there a few times!"  Gotay acknowledges.

"I think we all have."  Hollywood responds.

Laughter resounds around the campfire, and drinks are raised in salute.  After a few moments Hollywood asks Gotay:

"So how is that next one comin’, Funny?  What did you say it was called:  Confessions Of An Urban Gigolo??  As I recall, you said somethin’ bout it bein’ somewhat—Steamy!"

Gotay smiles, Yeah, dawg.  The pages get so hot at times---I have to wear oven-mitts just to write-it!

Is it gonna do as well as your last one, Funny?  Hackford asks

Gotay cocks his head to one side, "Easy!  In-fact, it’s gonna blow that last one out-of-the-water!  A lot of people, my fans included, are gonna go ‘Damn!  I didn’t know Funny could do it like that!"

Chuck’s eyes roll, "Now, there you go.  We just got through runnin’ Dave over-the-coals for sayin’ some mess like that, and damn if you don’t start, not two minutes after.  What in the hell is in y’alls glasses?  It must be shots of ego-boost, and you keep hittin’ doubles!"

"Oh yeah, Chuck!  It’s like that, is it? Funny asks, What are you tryin’ to say?!  That my stuff ain’t gonna be great?!  Like yours is gonna be all-that!  I s’pose, when yours comes-out, that Life:  In Pelican Bay thing, we should just throw ours away, huh?  ‘Cause the ‘great Chuck’ has written the best there ever was?!  Is that it??!!"

Ya’ know—It’s just like you, Funny, to say some crazy-mess like that.  Chuck answers, "I haven’t said anything like that, and you open your mouth, and all this super retarded stuff just spews all over the place.

"Besides, the title is Penitentiary Life:  Pelican Bay.  If you’re gonna insult somebody, you should at least get the title correct.  I bet you get it right when it’s number one on the bestseller list twenty weeks in a row!  Bet’cha that!"

Hollywood shakes his head, "Man, you guys!  I guess that 'ego-boost' stuff you were talkin’ about, Chuck, has found its way into your glass as well, huh?  Were you listenin’ to all that you were just sayin’?  You couldn’t have been, or you wouldn’t have said it."

"Oh, yeah?!  What, exactly, did I say that wasn’t true?  You know as well as I do, that after my success with Love Me, my next book is guaranteed to break the 'millions-zone', let-alone the tens-of-thousands zone, so,