NoQuWriCo 2026 Bulletin #5 November 13th

21,670 Words

Tis not in the pages of story

The heart of its ills to beguile,

Though he who makes courtship to glory

Gives all that he hath for her smile.

Nobility, by Alice Cary

The Clocktower Gathering meant that, from daybreak until bonfires became embers, the village business was discussed (in surprising passion for such dry content). You had attended as long as you remembered, as was required. Normally, at its end, you would have dragged yourself to collapse at home. But not tonight.

Prompt: Let a character be comfortable, whether that be rest or feeling in their element.

Morning was an unpleasantly firm nudge in the ribs. "Why are you on the steps?" The gentle voice asked. You groaned and slowly rubbed your eyes. Words stuck to the roof of your mouth. "The Archives," you managed to mumble. "I'm here from the Archives on assignment." "No need to be doing any assignments before breakfast. Come, let's get you cleaned up."

Qummunity Challenge: Swap excerpts with some accountability buddies.

The Clocktower was beautiful inside and out. Orchids grew on every edge. Freshly polished copper gleamed like a molten sunset. A fountain bubbled in the center, and the air inside felt like a fresh breeze. You were directed to wash your face there, to be presentable at the breakfast table in the next room. Nothing, so far, was as you expected.

Dare: Write to the time of day times 167.

Easy mode: morning is 3, afternoon is 2, night is 1.

The Clockkeepers laughed delicately over the vast breakfast spread. They warmly included you as they discussed their daily responsibilities. "You should have trained as a Clockkeeper instead," the one who woke you said, catching your gawking in disbelief. "Maybe," you muse, "but I like my job.""I bet I can convince you otherwise."

Question: What makes you passionate about this story?