For Inktober, Wednesday, October 28, 2020. Prompt word: “float.” Tuckerization: Bec J. Palmer
This is a reminder that volunteering for tuckerization only means a character in the story shares the participant’s name. Other than that, no other similar characteristics are implied.
Some Would Call It Worthless
by Alan Loewen
ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
Visitors to the city of Sarkomand usually find it by accident, becoming lost driving on a dark country road, or being led astray by a shady tour guide in some foreign country. Others sometimes awaken in the city only to find their bed transported during the night.
When Bec Palmer suddenly found herself a reluctant guest in the ancient city, a glance at the narrow streets pitted with potholes, dark alleys filled with refuse, trash bins reeking with the stench of rot, and residents who would not stop for questions soon made her label Sarkomand worthless. Life for her became a mission to find an exit back to more scenic, more familiar metropolises.
However, Bec’s natural pragmatism had her soon discover the city’s hidden charms. The owner of the darkened bistro, with its floor and tables covered with old stains, was quite capable of serving up dishes that tempted the palate of the most jaundiced gourmand. Stores with broken windows sealed with moldy cardboard held rusty shelves filled with treasures from exotic locales. Dead-end streets led to gardens of exotic blooms and fragrances floating in the air. Run-down, store-front churches that appeared at first glance unworthy to bear the title “House of Worship,” contained truths that spoke of Heaven itself.
Yes, many who find themselves in the city wallow in spite and bitterness, but some, like Bec, soon lost her desire to leave. In Sarkomand, she found a home filled with endless wonder.
Lee, Marie Anna, "Children in an alleyway" (2010). All Photographs. 3282.https://scholarlycommons.pacific.edu/kam-photos/3282
