Hugo Negron's Blog - Posts Tagged "magic"
Forging of a Knight and other new quests
IN THE BEGINNING…
The idea for this series started a LONG way back – grade school, as a matter of fact. A fascination with historical books on fantasy and mythology, and being influenced by works written by J.R.R. Tolkien, H.P. Lovecraft, the Hildebrandt Brothers (does anyone remember their foray into writing fantasy, Urshurak?), Robert E. Howard, and a host of others, gave way to an interest in writing about it. All of these writers created their own worlds, and populated them with unique cultures, creatures, heroes, and villains. My first tinkering was definitely not up to par. If anyone can recall the old Thundarr cartoon, my initial stories strongly paralleled it!
Over time the adventures of Qualtan grew into the occasional hobby – writing a new chapter here, removing an old chapter there. As reality kicked in (school, jobs, bills, worrying about money to PAY those bills, etc.) the stories become lost in piles of old memories and were only rediscovered when I moved out on my own. At one point, they ended up as trash, being thrown out as a childhood exercise in boredom. But for some reason, I went back to that trash can a few hours later and retrieved them, thinking they deserved a better review. The creative spark was rekindled, and the process of writing a new chapter here, removing an old chapter there, began again.
Fast forward years later, and my wife took an interest in my stories as I poured through what was now an enormous pile of paper, notebooks and random notes. Despite the years of on and off again writing, the stories had now grown with me and their basic premises were memorized. As I talked about them, and how neat it would have been to have seen them in novel form, she asked me why hadn’t I ever tried to do anything with them. I thought, camaan, to go through them all, make sense out of all the details, maturate the storylines, why bother?
Why not?! was the answer.
Why not, indeed? So I took the first story, and over a year, polished, updated, and clarified. I hired an editor to do clean-up, an illustrator to draw the cover, and found lulu.com in order to bind, prepare and set up for online epub and hard copy accessibility.
So now we are nearly at the “go live” stage – sure, there’s magic, monsters, and strange, wonderful places to visit within this first tale, but there are also lessons in friendship, trust, expectations, and that little naiveté all of us can have when starting off into something brand new, that almost always gets tempered with a slight dash of disappointment, a pinch of cynicism, and a spoonful of real vs. assumed expectations. This is something we can all relate to, whether you’re carrying around a mystic sword or not.
And this is only the start…both here and on my facebook page: http://www.facebook.com/Forging.of.a.... I'll be adding snippets on the characters, updates on what is coming next and some great giveaway contests as well as we lead up to the release of the first book in the Forging of a Knight series...
The idea for this series started a LONG way back – grade school, as a matter of fact. A fascination with historical books on fantasy and mythology, and being influenced by works written by J.R.R. Tolkien, H.P. Lovecraft, the Hildebrandt Brothers (does anyone remember their foray into writing fantasy, Urshurak?), Robert E. Howard, and a host of others, gave way to an interest in writing about it. All of these writers created their own worlds, and populated them with unique cultures, creatures, heroes, and villains. My first tinkering was definitely not up to par. If anyone can recall the old Thundarr cartoon, my initial stories strongly paralleled it!
Over time the adventures of Qualtan grew into the occasional hobby – writing a new chapter here, removing an old chapter there. As reality kicked in (school, jobs, bills, worrying about money to PAY those bills, etc.) the stories become lost in piles of old memories and were only rediscovered when I moved out on my own. At one point, they ended up as trash, being thrown out as a childhood exercise in boredom. But for some reason, I went back to that trash can a few hours later and retrieved them, thinking they deserved a better review. The creative spark was rekindled, and the process of writing a new chapter here, removing an old chapter there, began again.
Fast forward years later, and my wife took an interest in my stories as I poured through what was now an enormous pile of paper, notebooks and random notes. Despite the years of on and off again writing, the stories had now grown with me and their basic premises were memorized. As I talked about them, and how neat it would have been to have seen them in novel form, she asked me why hadn’t I ever tried to do anything with them. I thought, camaan, to go through them all, make sense out of all the details, maturate the storylines, why bother?
Why not?! was the answer.
Why not, indeed? So I took the first story, and over a year, polished, updated, and clarified. I hired an editor to do clean-up, an illustrator to draw the cover, and found lulu.com in order to bind, prepare and set up for online epub and hard copy accessibility.
So now we are nearly at the “go live” stage – sure, there’s magic, monsters, and strange, wonderful places to visit within this first tale, but there are also lessons in friendship, trust, expectations, and that little naiveté all of us can have when starting off into something brand new, that almost always gets tempered with a slight dash of disappointment, a pinch of cynicism, and a spoonful of real vs. assumed expectations. This is something we can all relate to, whether you’re carrying around a mystic sword or not.
And this is only the start…both here and on my facebook page: http://www.facebook.com/Forging.of.a.... I'll be adding snippets on the characters, updates on what is coming next and some great giveaway contests as well as we lead up to the release of the first book in the Forging of a Knight series...
Forging of a Knight is now on Kindle!
Forging of a Knight is now available on the Kindle!
For $2.99 you can download the first in the Forging of a Knight series!
For $2.99 you can download the first in the Forging of a Knight series!
The Arch-Mages
Well, the Wizard Con has come and gone, and in my costume as Dr. Doom, it was a blast taking photos with kids, adults, and fellow cosplayers! I will have to significantly upgrade the costume with metal armor vs. the plastic pieces I used, so looking forward to next year...
In the meantime, pulling out my quill pen and wax paper, we focus this blog entry on the Arch-Mages, members of the Council of Mages, also known as the Council of the School!
The School, as it is known, was created by a group of scholarly wizards for their own means, many ages past. Content with their own private study and research, they did little outside of their hidden sanctuary; a place magically protected from the outside world, and reachable only by them and a chosen few. Their power is innate, and at a level far beyond any other purveyor of magic.
They were the wizards that taught Aurelus, Qualtan's uncle, and others, selected in the Test we discussed under Aurelus' character profile. Over time, the original wizards disappeared, either on personal quests, retiring to lands hidden, or disappearing by unknown means. This eventually left the current roster of Arch-Mages, former apprentices now turned Master Mages, to fend for themselves, and to develop a new philosophy towards the outside world. Aurelus became their unofficial leader, and made their first order of business to search out the great Amali, a wizard of untold power. The Arch-Mages nominated him as the School's steward, and he accepted, helping them to build their case against Those That Stand in Shadow, and guiding them towards service to their fellow Kind. Thus, the School became the Council of Mages (or the Council of the Arch-Mages as it was sometimes called), forging the Alliance, and becoming a permanent fixture in guiding the continent and its nations towards peace and prosperity. Mostly embraced, some nations have begun to feel the 'Mages influence has grown beyond their own, and feel threatened by the power they hold.
When the wormy hands of Those That Stand in Shadow began to extend outward, reaching over the continent, Aurelus led the way in forming a coalition against them. The Alliance was made, bonding the three nations of Turinthia, Bagda, and Medlissia as one. The Arch-Mages created the Tourney (also known as the Trial), a contest in which great warriors whom the wizards had magically enhanced battled over the right to wield the Goldenflame, a special blade they had created.
So who were they?
Aurelus, uncle to Qualtan, and brother to Eucradus. It was his brother who won the Trial.
Amali the Ancient, the School's steward, and part-time member, who eventually retreated back to his own continent to deal with the trials and tribulations found therein. His chosen hero failed against Eucradus in the Trial, and also returned home to champion his own people.
Al-Hlassim, known for his bright attire and glowering eyes, still active within the School, his own hero also having failed against Eucradus in the Trial.
The elf wizard known as the Wizard of Greyfog Gorge, where his secondary home sits. He was the mentor to the current ruler of Hermstingle, last citadel of the High Elves, and sponsor in the Trial of Termenon, Prince of Hermstingle, also known as the Sword of Eagles. He also failed against Eucradus, and held a mighty grudge against the fact that a Human-Kind could beat an Elf-Kind. This resentment would soon show itself when Prince Termenon eventually encountered Qualtan, son of the hero that bested him, and gifted with powers equal to his own.
Fargus, sponsor of a hero that lost against Eucradus and died in the battles against the Evil Ones. Fargus himself perished in an early campaign against Those That Stand in Shadow.
Mordecai, sponsor to yet another hero who lost in the Trial, and also dead. Mordecai joined his compatriot Fargus in the same battle, also losing his life.
Though this leaves only four remaining Arch-Mages (three, if you take into account that Amali has left the School for now), some of the new apprentices who passed the current roster's Test still reside at the School, developing to one day take their masters' place. They are:
Mulvanen, brother to fellow Arch-Mage apprentice Throudamere, and ever contesting against him to prove his superiority. In fact, he looks to prove himself above all the wizards, whether they be apprentice or Arch-Mage. His festering for ever greater power has become a slight worry in the eyes of Aurelus, and he has begun to wonder about him...
Throudamere, brother to Mulvanen.
Broetal, a female mage of great power.
Cassandra, mentored by Aurelus, and the mightiest of the apprentices. Aurelus and the other Arch-Mages agree that she will be the first of the new apprentices to eventually take their place.
Little is known about the apprentices, for beyond their supporting roles in the wars against the Dark Ones, their works were unknown and unseen. There had been three additional apprentices, who sadly lost their lives in the many battles against Shaz and his forces. They were named Torsen, Mantrel, and Ochtomean.
Thus reads the legend of the Arch-Mages. What their final fate will be, and whether they outlast the Dark Ones, Those That Stand in Shadow, or the growing enmity of the very nations they saved, is a tale yet to be told...
In the meantime, pulling out my quill pen and wax paper, we focus this blog entry on the Arch-Mages, members of the Council of Mages, also known as the Council of the School!
The School, as it is known, was created by a group of scholarly wizards for their own means, many ages past. Content with their own private study and research, they did little outside of their hidden sanctuary; a place magically protected from the outside world, and reachable only by them and a chosen few. Their power is innate, and at a level far beyond any other purveyor of magic.
They were the wizards that taught Aurelus, Qualtan's uncle, and others, selected in the Test we discussed under Aurelus' character profile. Over time, the original wizards disappeared, either on personal quests, retiring to lands hidden, or disappearing by unknown means. This eventually left the current roster of Arch-Mages, former apprentices now turned Master Mages, to fend for themselves, and to develop a new philosophy towards the outside world. Aurelus became their unofficial leader, and made their first order of business to search out the great Amali, a wizard of untold power. The Arch-Mages nominated him as the School's steward, and he accepted, helping them to build their case against Those That Stand in Shadow, and guiding them towards service to their fellow Kind. Thus, the School became the Council of Mages (or the Council of the Arch-Mages as it was sometimes called), forging the Alliance, and becoming a permanent fixture in guiding the continent and its nations towards peace and prosperity. Mostly embraced, some nations have begun to feel the 'Mages influence has grown beyond their own, and feel threatened by the power they hold.
When the wormy hands of Those That Stand in Shadow began to extend outward, reaching over the continent, Aurelus led the way in forming a coalition against them. The Alliance was made, bonding the three nations of Turinthia, Bagda, and Medlissia as one. The Arch-Mages created the Tourney (also known as the Trial), a contest in which great warriors whom the wizards had magically enhanced battled over the right to wield the Goldenflame, a special blade they had created.
So who were they?
Aurelus, uncle to Qualtan, and brother to Eucradus. It was his brother who won the Trial.
Amali the Ancient, the School's steward, and part-time member, who eventually retreated back to his own continent to deal with the trials and tribulations found therein. His chosen hero failed against Eucradus in the Trial, and also returned home to champion his own people.
Al-Hlassim, known for his bright attire and glowering eyes, still active within the School, his own hero also having failed against Eucradus in the Trial.
The elf wizard known as the Wizard of Greyfog Gorge, where his secondary home sits. He was the mentor to the current ruler of Hermstingle, last citadel of the High Elves, and sponsor in the Trial of Termenon, Prince of Hermstingle, also known as the Sword of Eagles. He also failed against Eucradus, and held a mighty grudge against the fact that a Human-Kind could beat an Elf-Kind. This resentment would soon show itself when Prince Termenon eventually encountered Qualtan, son of the hero that bested him, and gifted with powers equal to his own.
Fargus, sponsor of a hero that lost against Eucradus and died in the battles against the Evil Ones. Fargus himself perished in an early campaign against Those That Stand in Shadow.
Mordecai, sponsor to yet another hero who lost in the Trial, and also dead. Mordecai joined his compatriot Fargus in the same battle, also losing his life.
Though this leaves only four remaining Arch-Mages (three, if you take into account that Amali has left the School for now), some of the new apprentices who passed the current roster's Test still reside at the School, developing to one day take their masters' place. They are:
Mulvanen, brother to fellow Arch-Mage apprentice Throudamere, and ever contesting against him to prove his superiority. In fact, he looks to prove himself above all the wizards, whether they be apprentice or Arch-Mage. His festering for ever greater power has become a slight worry in the eyes of Aurelus, and he has begun to wonder about him...
Throudamere, brother to Mulvanen.
Broetal, a female mage of great power.
Cassandra, mentored by Aurelus, and the mightiest of the apprentices. Aurelus and the other Arch-Mages agree that she will be the first of the new apprentices to eventually take their place.
Little is known about the apprentices, for beyond their supporting roles in the wars against the Dark Ones, their works were unknown and unseen. There had been three additional apprentices, who sadly lost their lives in the many battles against Shaz and his forces. They were named Torsen, Mantrel, and Ochtomean.
Thus reads the legend of the Arch-Mages. What their final fate will be, and whether they outlast the Dark Ones, Those That Stand in Shadow, or the growing enmity of the very nations they saved, is a tale yet to be told...
Thanks to all!
I just wanted to give a quick "shout out" and say thanks to the 466 people who entered my giveaway for free copies of Forging of a Knight!
To those five entrants that won, books will be shipped out shortly! I hope you enjoy the story, the characters, and the first of the Forging of a Knight series! Feel free to let me know what you thought!
Also wanted to say thanks to local libraries in Bartlett, Schaumburg, and Elgin, IL for carrying a copy!
To those five entrants that won, books will be shipped out shortly! I hope you enjoy the story, the characters, and the first of the Forging of a Knight series! Feel free to let me know what you thought!
Also wanted to say thanks to local libraries in Bartlett, Schaumburg, and Elgin, IL for carrying a copy!
Who are the new Knights? Excerpt from Book II
Hello again, all! I'm excited to say that Book II, Rise of the Slavekeepers is in full swing! The story is done, now its just a matter of getting it out to the editor and lulu. With the holidays coming, it will probably be out in mid-summer at some point, and then the work will center around an explosive Book III...
In the meantime, I'm sure you've been seeing some of the brief summaries on the main characters I've been showcasing in my blog from Book I. I've also been hinting at some of the new supporting characters that will be making their appearance in Book II, such as Jesepha, the knight. To add a bit more about who they are, I've added below an excerpt from Book II, as Qualtan gets that very same question answered...
“We have not been introduced. My name is Bartholomew. And you are Qualtan, son of Eucradus.” He said, extending his hand.
“I am.” Qualtan replied, returning the gesture.
“I was hoping to speak to you at some point, since your presentation to the King. Your petition was impressive. I have heard many good things about you.”
“Thank you.” Qualtan was rather surprised by his interest.
“It is good that the sword has returned home. Its presence is sorely needed.”
Qualtan smiled slightly. The knight’s interest in him was obvious. Bartholomew stared deeply, as if searching for something.
“I have had little chance to learn about the others. The past few days have been a whirlwind of activity for me.” Qualtan said, attempting to deflect Bartholomew’s attention.
“Yes. You will find it difficult to do so. So many knights come and go from the capitol. Some you may never meet, as they remain permanently stationed in the field and rarely return. Others rotate their assignments, while a few disappear on perilous voyages and secret assignments, reappearing many years later, with grayed beards, and weakened backs. Those that die are soon replaced.” He said, with a strange smile as if testing Qualtan once again.
Qualtan did not take the bait.
“I was told the Order at its largest carried 250 knights to its name.”
“Yes! Back during the many battles that led to the Great War. Now, during times of peace, are strength resides at fifty or so. Each knight during more violent times served as commanders of their own troop of soldiery. Nowadays, we sit and wait for the next Great War, and the war after that.”
“How long have you served?”
Bartholomew’s eyes seemed to twinkle. With a knowing smile, he laughed.
“Long enough, I sometimes think! Still, there are noble causes yet to pursue, such as the one we entertain today.”
“What of the other knights, then? They were introduced to me but briefly before we left Turinthia.”
“Ah!” The knight settled in beside Qualtan, pointing to each member of their team.
“You know Jesepha, of course. Powerful knight. Her skills, lethal. Her father had been a knight, and had hoped for a boy to follow in his footsteps. Instead he was blessed with a beautiful girl that did not disavow him of his intent. You are well versed now, in the arduous steps to becoming a knight.”
Qualtan nodded. The process had been made clear to him by Aurelus. To become a knight, you were either knighted by the King or a chosen delegate given those powers, such as General Mountebank, or by petition, sponsored by a knight or someone of similar or higher status, such as his uncle. Either way demanded some act of great courage, noted and witnessed, with the appropriate proofs, of course. The squires were trained for this, hoping to eventually join their knights on the battlefield and prove themselves at some point or other, for that is their eventual purpose. During the wars of the past squires were quickly promoted into the thinning ranks of knighthood. Now, however, there was no need for such numbers, and the squires’ tenure was unfortunately lengthened.
Bartholomew continued. “Jesepha’s father had led a group of soldiers to guard a councilwoman on a voyage through a treacherous path. His daughter accompanied them, despite his arguments against it, for she knew the way to his heart and he could never truly deny her. They were ambushed by orcnes and he was injured. Imagine if you will, a circle of soldiers defending a party of wagons, slowly being pushed back, and the sudden appearance of a young girl rushing into battle, barely outside of being a child, taking her father’s sword, leading the soldiers into a charge. The orcnes were repulsed, and the councilwoman, impressed with Jesepha’s courage, joined her father in presenting her to the King. She was one of the youngest to be knighted into the ranks of the Bearded Lion.” Bartholomew smiled at her. “I have know her for many years, having witnessed her blossoming into a beautiful woman and a deadly warrior. She is a true knight, none fiercer.”
“What of Euric? It was obvious to me back at the celebration of my induction that he has interest in her. He shadowed her like some irksome attendant.”
Bartholomew laughed happily. “He still does. Euric the dashing! Euric the fearless! He’s given himself many titles. He is a child that has never grown up. Boundless energy, with a never ending smile. Some of the other knights do not respect him, thinking he does not take the honor of knighthood seriously. They say he spends more time oiling his overly long moustache than he does oiling his own sword. However, do not be fooled. True, he was born to the aristocracy, his father a rich merchant lord who became a council member. Some say he bought his way into the position through many precious gifts, but who knows? Euric did not show his father’s powers for trade and debate, and showed little ability to run his father’s business dealings. However, he did show a knack for swordplay. With his father’s desire to be seen as truly worthy of his recently elevated station within the Council, he immediately searched for and hired the best swordmasters his gold could buy to train the boy to become a knight and ensconce himself within the nobility. Euric was not the best of squires, focusing more on chasing maidens and revelry than his duties. He was passed from one knight to the next, and nearly kicked out. Again it is said his father’s wealth protected his position. Regardless, his worth was proven at last. His knight was captured by the kingdom of Mezzolanke during a spying mission, one of Turinthia’s rival nations that refused entrance into the Alliance. The two countries have had numerous confrontations against each other, simmering and cooling over the years, but neither trusts the other. In fact Mezzolanke attempted to form its own Alliance with lesser kingdoms in a show of strength against our own, but failed miserably.” Bartholomew paused, as if his own mind had begun to wander.
“What happened, then?” Qualtan asked.
Bartholomew snapped back to the story. “Ah, yes! With a rag tag group of volunteer squires, Euric snuck into the lands of Mezzolanke, discovered where his knight had been taken, and freed him, returning in glory, and immediately petitioned by his grateful master for knighthood, which was granted.” The elder knight chuckled briefly. “Ah, the attempted parleys that took place in the Council chambers between both countries after that were loud and prodigious, then!”
“And the other two, then? What of them? I have not seen them before this trip. They look like brothers, with their long brown beards.”
Bartholomew frowned. “They, my new friend, are what you will now find within the halls of the Order, they and their like. Sturdy warriors both, though neither are brother to the other. But they enjoy their killing too much, I think, and value more the freedom given to them to revel in their excesses than the reasoning behind it. They are senior members, long scarred from many a battle. I know them both only through reputation and my own observances. Ulthag and Rutt they are named, and I would advise you to trust them little.”
“But if we are all knights…?”
“Just because we belong to the same Order, does not mean we are all cut from the same cloth.”
Qualtan was about to question that, when Ulthag, the leading member of their party, clapped his hands.
“Let’s be off!”
“Time to go.” Bartholomew said. “Again, welcome, Sir Knight! I am very happy you are here!” He added, patting Qualtan on his back. Both men rose and began preparing their packs for the final phase of their road.
“You are most kind Bartholomew, and I welcome your friendship. Your information, however, though helpful, has been incomplete.”
“Oh? What have I missed?”
Qualtan stretched as he tightened the buckles on his worn pack, adjusting its position on his back.
“You gave me lessons on every knight here except for one…you.”
Bartholomew laughed. “My story holds little interest. We will speak of it another time."
In the meantime, I'm sure you've been seeing some of the brief summaries on the main characters I've been showcasing in my blog from Book I. I've also been hinting at some of the new supporting characters that will be making their appearance in Book II, such as Jesepha, the knight. To add a bit more about who they are, I've added below an excerpt from Book II, as Qualtan gets that very same question answered...
“We have not been introduced. My name is Bartholomew. And you are Qualtan, son of Eucradus.” He said, extending his hand.
“I am.” Qualtan replied, returning the gesture.
“I was hoping to speak to you at some point, since your presentation to the King. Your petition was impressive. I have heard many good things about you.”
“Thank you.” Qualtan was rather surprised by his interest.
“It is good that the sword has returned home. Its presence is sorely needed.”
Qualtan smiled slightly. The knight’s interest in him was obvious. Bartholomew stared deeply, as if searching for something.
“I have had little chance to learn about the others. The past few days have been a whirlwind of activity for me.” Qualtan said, attempting to deflect Bartholomew’s attention.
“Yes. You will find it difficult to do so. So many knights come and go from the capitol. Some you may never meet, as they remain permanently stationed in the field and rarely return. Others rotate their assignments, while a few disappear on perilous voyages and secret assignments, reappearing many years later, with grayed beards, and weakened backs. Those that die are soon replaced.” He said, with a strange smile as if testing Qualtan once again.
Qualtan did not take the bait.
“I was told the Order at its largest carried 250 knights to its name.”
“Yes! Back during the many battles that led to the Great War. Now, during times of peace, are strength resides at fifty or so. Each knight during more violent times served as commanders of their own troop of soldiery. Nowadays, we sit and wait for the next Great War, and the war after that.”
“How long have you served?”
Bartholomew’s eyes seemed to twinkle. With a knowing smile, he laughed.
“Long enough, I sometimes think! Still, there are noble causes yet to pursue, such as the one we entertain today.”
“What of the other knights, then? They were introduced to me but briefly before we left Turinthia.”
“Ah!” The knight settled in beside Qualtan, pointing to each member of their team.
“You know Jesepha, of course. Powerful knight. Her skills, lethal. Her father had been a knight, and had hoped for a boy to follow in his footsteps. Instead he was blessed with a beautiful girl that did not disavow him of his intent. You are well versed now, in the arduous steps to becoming a knight.”
Qualtan nodded. The process had been made clear to him by Aurelus. To become a knight, you were either knighted by the King or a chosen delegate given those powers, such as General Mountebank, or by petition, sponsored by a knight or someone of similar or higher status, such as his uncle. Either way demanded some act of great courage, noted and witnessed, with the appropriate proofs, of course. The squires were trained for this, hoping to eventually join their knights on the battlefield and prove themselves at some point or other, for that is their eventual purpose. During the wars of the past squires were quickly promoted into the thinning ranks of knighthood. Now, however, there was no need for such numbers, and the squires’ tenure was unfortunately lengthened.
Bartholomew continued. “Jesepha’s father had led a group of soldiers to guard a councilwoman on a voyage through a treacherous path. His daughter accompanied them, despite his arguments against it, for she knew the way to his heart and he could never truly deny her. They were ambushed by orcnes and he was injured. Imagine if you will, a circle of soldiers defending a party of wagons, slowly being pushed back, and the sudden appearance of a young girl rushing into battle, barely outside of being a child, taking her father’s sword, leading the soldiers into a charge. The orcnes were repulsed, and the councilwoman, impressed with Jesepha’s courage, joined her father in presenting her to the King. She was one of the youngest to be knighted into the ranks of the Bearded Lion.” Bartholomew smiled at her. “I have know her for many years, having witnessed her blossoming into a beautiful woman and a deadly warrior. She is a true knight, none fiercer.”
“What of Euric? It was obvious to me back at the celebration of my induction that he has interest in her. He shadowed her like some irksome attendant.”
Bartholomew laughed happily. “He still does. Euric the dashing! Euric the fearless! He’s given himself many titles. He is a child that has never grown up. Boundless energy, with a never ending smile. Some of the other knights do not respect him, thinking he does not take the honor of knighthood seriously. They say he spends more time oiling his overly long moustache than he does oiling his own sword. However, do not be fooled. True, he was born to the aristocracy, his father a rich merchant lord who became a council member. Some say he bought his way into the position through many precious gifts, but who knows? Euric did not show his father’s powers for trade and debate, and showed little ability to run his father’s business dealings. However, he did show a knack for swordplay. With his father’s desire to be seen as truly worthy of his recently elevated station within the Council, he immediately searched for and hired the best swordmasters his gold could buy to train the boy to become a knight and ensconce himself within the nobility. Euric was not the best of squires, focusing more on chasing maidens and revelry than his duties. He was passed from one knight to the next, and nearly kicked out. Again it is said his father’s wealth protected his position. Regardless, his worth was proven at last. His knight was captured by the kingdom of Mezzolanke during a spying mission, one of Turinthia’s rival nations that refused entrance into the Alliance. The two countries have had numerous confrontations against each other, simmering and cooling over the years, but neither trusts the other. In fact Mezzolanke attempted to form its own Alliance with lesser kingdoms in a show of strength against our own, but failed miserably.” Bartholomew paused, as if his own mind had begun to wander.
“What happened, then?” Qualtan asked.
Bartholomew snapped back to the story. “Ah, yes! With a rag tag group of volunteer squires, Euric snuck into the lands of Mezzolanke, discovered where his knight had been taken, and freed him, returning in glory, and immediately petitioned by his grateful master for knighthood, which was granted.” The elder knight chuckled briefly. “Ah, the attempted parleys that took place in the Council chambers between both countries after that were loud and prodigious, then!”
“And the other two, then? What of them? I have not seen them before this trip. They look like brothers, with their long brown beards.”
Bartholomew frowned. “They, my new friend, are what you will now find within the halls of the Order, they and their like. Sturdy warriors both, though neither are brother to the other. But they enjoy their killing too much, I think, and value more the freedom given to them to revel in their excesses than the reasoning behind it. They are senior members, long scarred from many a battle. I know them both only through reputation and my own observances. Ulthag and Rutt they are named, and I would advise you to trust them little.”
“But if we are all knights…?”
“Just because we belong to the same Order, does not mean we are all cut from the same cloth.”
Qualtan was about to question that, when Ulthag, the leading member of their party, clapped his hands.
“Let’s be off!”
“Time to go.” Bartholomew said. “Again, welcome, Sir Knight! I am very happy you are here!” He added, patting Qualtan on his back. Both men rose and began preparing their packs for the final phase of their road.
“You are most kind Bartholomew, and I welcome your friendship. Your information, however, though helpful, has been incomplete.”
“Oh? What have I missed?”
Qualtan stretched as he tightened the buckles on his worn pack, adjusting its position on his back.
“You gave me lessons on every knight here except for one…you.”
Bartholomew laughed. “My story holds little interest. We will speak of it another time."
Jesepha and Euric
Happy holidays to one and all! With the crisp air of winter and the crackle of a fireplace log, ye ole Yuletide season is one of my two favorite times of the year. If there is magic to be had, this is certainly the time to look for it!
As the countdown to Book Two slowly progresses, I wanted to share some additional insights on two of our upcoming supporting cast members, Jesepha and Euric.
As mentioned in our last excerpt, both are knights in good standing of the Alliance's Order of the Bearded Lion, and new friends to Qualtan and Glaive. Both Jesepha and Euric are good friends with each other, having trained and grown up together within the Order. It didn't take long for Euric to develop a crush on his sister knight, with her boldness, beauty, and deadly skill with the sword.
However, Jesepha was of a different mind, fiercely independent, and Euric's awkward attempts at courtship usually ended in disaster for him. Try as he might, whether with suave words or childish schoolboy antics, nothing seemed to work. Other girls fell for his artificial charm, but not Jesepha! She had seen his routine one time too many. Besides, she was more inclined towards testing her skill in battle than being romanced, especially by a fellow knight. Still, Euric never was one to give up on such a challenge, and she became resigned to his never ending attempts. Would she ever see him differently? That's for further reading in Book Two. Here's another excerpt, as Euric tries his luck yet again:
“How could you let that rogue touch you? You’ve tumbled over many a man who dared, including me!” Euric said, taking hold of Jesepha’s shoulder.
“My business is my own!” Jesepha responded.
“Surely you are not attracted to him?! He is a brigand and a scheming profiteer! Probably has more wives in more lands that you have fingers and toes!”
“Your opinion means little to me.”
“And what of your opinion of me?”
Jesepha sighed, pausing her step. “Euric…” She began to complain. He quickly put a finger to his lips, pulling her to a quiet alcove within the ship.
“We don’t have time for this.” She argued.
“Yes we do. I play no games this time. You know how I feel about you. I have attempted to court you…”
“As you have many a maiden back home.”
“Because you deny me at every turn! I have no choice! What is it? Why will you not honor me with a favorable response? For awhile I thought you had chosen Bartholomew…”
“Bartholomew? He has looked out for me, and mentored me. I love him as I would an older brother.”
“And I?”
Jesepha allowed her usually tough exterior to slacken. Her voice became soft, and gentle.
“Euric, you are like a younger brother to me. You are kind, and despite your childish antics and annoying prattle, you are a true knight. I know your feelings for me, and I have done my best to dissuade you of them. I’m sorry.”
Euric’s eyes looked down. He frowned with sadness. He shuffled uneasily.
Jesepha could see his pain, and smiled sadly. She placed a hand on his cheek, staring into his eyes.
“Please understand, Euric. I love you as a good friend, but I cannot give you more.”
He took his hand and placed it upon hers.
“Then whose favor do you carry?”
“I carry none.”
“But surely matters of the heart have not escaped you.”
“I have not thought to concern myself with such things.”
“A horrid mistake! You cannot live by the sword alone! There is life to live, and parties to attend, and merriment to be had!”
Jesepha laughed at last. “I have enjoyed those things.”
“But alone.” Euric insisted.
This time it was Jesepha who seemed unsure of herself. “I am not closed to such matters. When the right man comes, I will know of it. Until then…”
“Until then! By that time you will be an old crone, creaking more than your armor! You aren’t getting any younger, you know…”
Jesepha’s face turned red with sudden rage.
“Not getting any younger?!” She demanded.
“You demand too much! If you continue with your ways, you will never be happy and it will be too late to show a bit of lace on your leg!”
“You insufferable, ignorant…”
“You know I speak the truth!” Euric quickly interjected.
“Argh!” Jesepha growled with frustration, quickly moving away.
Euric watched her leave. He sighed, touching the side of his face where her hand had been. “Well done, you fool!” He said to himself miserably.
As the countdown to Book Two slowly progresses, I wanted to share some additional insights on two of our upcoming supporting cast members, Jesepha and Euric.
As mentioned in our last excerpt, both are knights in good standing of the Alliance's Order of the Bearded Lion, and new friends to Qualtan and Glaive. Both Jesepha and Euric are good friends with each other, having trained and grown up together within the Order. It didn't take long for Euric to develop a crush on his sister knight, with her boldness, beauty, and deadly skill with the sword.
However, Jesepha was of a different mind, fiercely independent, and Euric's awkward attempts at courtship usually ended in disaster for him. Try as he might, whether with suave words or childish schoolboy antics, nothing seemed to work. Other girls fell for his artificial charm, but not Jesepha! She had seen his routine one time too many. Besides, she was more inclined towards testing her skill in battle than being romanced, especially by a fellow knight. Still, Euric never was one to give up on such a challenge, and she became resigned to his never ending attempts. Would she ever see him differently? That's for further reading in Book Two. Here's another excerpt, as Euric tries his luck yet again:
“How could you let that rogue touch you? You’ve tumbled over many a man who dared, including me!” Euric said, taking hold of Jesepha’s shoulder.
“My business is my own!” Jesepha responded.
“Surely you are not attracted to him?! He is a brigand and a scheming profiteer! Probably has more wives in more lands that you have fingers and toes!”
“Your opinion means little to me.”
“And what of your opinion of me?”
Jesepha sighed, pausing her step. “Euric…” She began to complain. He quickly put a finger to his lips, pulling her to a quiet alcove within the ship.
“We don’t have time for this.” She argued.
“Yes we do. I play no games this time. You know how I feel about you. I have attempted to court you…”
“As you have many a maiden back home.”
“Because you deny me at every turn! I have no choice! What is it? Why will you not honor me with a favorable response? For awhile I thought you had chosen Bartholomew…”
“Bartholomew? He has looked out for me, and mentored me. I love him as I would an older brother.”
“And I?”
Jesepha allowed her usually tough exterior to slacken. Her voice became soft, and gentle.
“Euric, you are like a younger brother to me. You are kind, and despite your childish antics and annoying prattle, you are a true knight. I know your feelings for me, and I have done my best to dissuade you of them. I’m sorry.”
Euric’s eyes looked down. He frowned with sadness. He shuffled uneasily.
Jesepha could see his pain, and smiled sadly. She placed a hand on his cheek, staring into his eyes.
“Please understand, Euric. I love you as a good friend, but I cannot give you more.”
He took his hand and placed it upon hers.
“Then whose favor do you carry?”
“I carry none.”
“But surely matters of the heart have not escaped you.”
“I have not thought to concern myself with such things.”
“A horrid mistake! You cannot live by the sword alone! There is life to live, and parties to attend, and merriment to be had!”
Jesepha laughed at last. “I have enjoyed those things.”
“But alone.” Euric insisted.
This time it was Jesepha who seemed unsure of herself. “I am not closed to such matters. When the right man comes, I will know of it. Until then…”
“Until then! By that time you will be an old crone, creaking more than your armor! You aren’t getting any younger, you know…”
Jesepha’s face turned red with sudden rage.
“Not getting any younger?!” She demanded.
“You demand too much! If you continue with your ways, you will never be happy and it will be too late to show a bit of lace on your leg!”
“You insufferable, ignorant…”
“You know I speak the truth!” Euric quickly interjected.
“Argh!” Jesepha growled with frustration, quickly moving away.
Euric watched her leave. He sighed, touching the side of his face where her hand had been. “Well done, you fool!” He said to himself miserably.
Sneak Peek from Indies Unlimited!
Here's a great sneak peek to the first book in my Forging of a Knight series from Indies Unlimited!
http://www.indiesunlimited.com/2012/1...
www.indiesunlimited.com
http://www.indiesunlimited.com/2012/1...
www.indiesunlimited.com
Video trailer for Forging of a Knight!
Happy holidays to one and all! As this is the time of my birthday, I'm doubly excited - although not for the gifts, since I usually get the proverbial one gift for Christmas AND my birthday! Ah well....
...just to share, I have added a video trailer for Forging of a Knight on my Goodreads profile. I just posted it on YouTube, and although we aren't talking big budgets, animations, and actors/actresses here, I think for a first time out its not too bad...check it out, let me know what you think!
...just to share, I have added a video trailer for Forging of a Knight on my Goodreads profile. I just posted it on YouTube, and although we aren't talking big budgets, animations, and actors/actresses here, I think for a first time out its not too bad...check it out, let me know what you think!
GEN CON 2013! Updates, and more...
Hello out there!
Here in Illinois, we are finally digging through some actual snowstorms that took effect after a record setting period of no-snow for this time of year. I’m actually happy we didn’t take down our Christmas tree since we are finally getting a “white post-Christmas”…
Onto some news! I will have a booth set up at Gen Con in Indianapolis this year Aug 15-18th! I will be hawkin’, sellin’, and beggin’ my book Forging of a Knight, along with Book Two, Rise of the Slavekeepers in my REAL metal suit of armor (not a full suit, as I wouldn’t want to shake someone’s hand and then collapse from dehydration, but suit enough!). This is a great event for fantasy buffs, and there will be games, contests, and costumes galore:
http://gencon.com/
If you plan on going, please stop by and visit me in the Author’s Avenue to talk fantasy, books, Forging of a Knight, or just to say “hi”!
Speaking of which, Book Two is still with my editor. I will hopefully be able to share some preview work on the cover and additional tidbits as it progresses.
As I speak (or write), I am halfway through the rough draft for Book Three. This is going to be a really fun read – I wish I could share some details, but the plot revolves around things that happen in Book Two and I don’t want to spoil it until Book Two is out later this year and people have had a chance to read it. I will say this – enemies become allies, and some characters introduced in Books One and Two will return and join forces, along with new companions, in a race against the ruling member of Those That Stand in Shadow and his agents to stop the unleashing of an even greater terror! For those who read Book One, they may recall Amali the Ancient, and the fact that his home resided in the Third Continent. They may also recall the reference to a race of corrupt demon worshippers called the Yanaan during a brief conversation between Amali and Aurelus. That will give some hints as to who may be appearing. From Turinthia to the sweltering Third Continent where sits the empire of Zubadi, the story will cover two continents, new lands, new heroes, and new foes! Okay, so maybe I spoiled it a little bit…
I also wanted to give a shout out and say THANK YOU to two people who have really supported Forging of a Knight with their kind words, reviews, and assistance in putting the word out there. They deserve mention here.
They are:
Jasper de Joode – Forging of a Knight’s first official reviewer, back when he was at www.fantasybookreview.co.uk. Now you can find his awesome reviews at http://thebookplank.blogspot.com/
Brian Beam, author of The Dragon Gem:
"With nothing to go on but a vague dream which may or may not be memory, Korinalis Karell has traveled Amirand for three years in search of his birth parents. With a magical Contract to fund his journey and a magic talking wizard cat named Max to keep him out of trouble, Korin has made his way through the world with no success in finding them.
However, what starts out as a seemingly simple Contract job to find a stolen gem for a count quickly turns into a fight for survival that brings about revelations about Korin's life that turn his world inside-out and upside-down.
With the aid of a mediocre wizard who happens to be the daughter of the most powerful wizard in Amirand, a chatterbox Kolarin, and Max, Korin sets out to discover the secrets of his past so that he may live to see his future.
This is a firsthand account of Korin's journey as he chases down thieves, is chased down by a dragon and gods-forsaken creatures of death, and finds out that life just never seems to get easier."
Find out what he’s up to next at:
https://www.facebook.com/brianbeamauthor
A humble thank you to you both – you are truly Knights of the Order!
Here in Illinois, we are finally digging through some actual snowstorms that took effect after a record setting period of no-snow for this time of year. I’m actually happy we didn’t take down our Christmas tree since we are finally getting a “white post-Christmas”…
Onto some news! I will have a booth set up at Gen Con in Indianapolis this year Aug 15-18th! I will be hawkin’, sellin’, and beggin’ my book Forging of a Knight, along with Book Two, Rise of the Slavekeepers in my REAL metal suit of armor (not a full suit, as I wouldn’t want to shake someone’s hand and then collapse from dehydration, but suit enough!). This is a great event for fantasy buffs, and there will be games, contests, and costumes galore:
http://gencon.com/
If you plan on going, please stop by and visit me in the Author’s Avenue to talk fantasy, books, Forging of a Knight, or just to say “hi”!
Speaking of which, Book Two is still with my editor. I will hopefully be able to share some preview work on the cover and additional tidbits as it progresses.
As I speak (or write), I am halfway through the rough draft for Book Three. This is going to be a really fun read – I wish I could share some details, but the plot revolves around things that happen in Book Two and I don’t want to spoil it until Book Two is out later this year and people have had a chance to read it. I will say this – enemies become allies, and some characters introduced in Books One and Two will return and join forces, along with new companions, in a race against the ruling member of Those That Stand in Shadow and his agents to stop the unleashing of an even greater terror! For those who read Book One, they may recall Amali the Ancient, and the fact that his home resided in the Third Continent. They may also recall the reference to a race of corrupt demon worshippers called the Yanaan during a brief conversation between Amali and Aurelus. That will give some hints as to who may be appearing. From Turinthia to the sweltering Third Continent where sits the empire of Zubadi, the story will cover two continents, new lands, new heroes, and new foes! Okay, so maybe I spoiled it a little bit…
I also wanted to give a shout out and say THANK YOU to two people who have really supported Forging of a Knight with their kind words, reviews, and assistance in putting the word out there. They deserve mention here.
They are:
Jasper de Joode – Forging of a Knight’s first official reviewer, back when he was at www.fantasybookreview.co.uk. Now you can find his awesome reviews at http://thebookplank.blogspot.com/
Brian Beam, author of The Dragon Gem:
"With nothing to go on but a vague dream which may or may not be memory, Korinalis Karell has traveled Amirand for three years in search of his birth parents. With a magical Contract to fund his journey and a magic talking wizard cat named Max to keep him out of trouble, Korin has made his way through the world with no success in finding them.
However, what starts out as a seemingly simple Contract job to find a stolen gem for a count quickly turns into a fight for survival that brings about revelations about Korin's life that turn his world inside-out and upside-down.
With the aid of a mediocre wizard who happens to be the daughter of the most powerful wizard in Amirand, a chatterbox Kolarin, and Max, Korin sets out to discover the secrets of his past so that he may live to see his future.
This is a firsthand account of Korin's journey as he chases down thieves, is chased down by a dragon and gods-forsaken creatures of death, and finds out that life just never seems to get easier."
Find out what he’s up to next at:
https://www.facebook.com/brianbeamauthor
A humble thank you to you both – you are truly Knights of the Order!
Forging of a Knight is a new sponsor for Spellfury!
Hey all - anybody ever watch Spellfury? Spellfury (the fantasy live action webseries) has been seen over 6 million times online and aired Nationally in Canada on Global TV. You can find them on youtube as well or at www.spellfury.com. The cool thing is, Forging of a Knight will be one of their new sponsors! The next episode of Spellfury will have a commercial aired for Forging of a Knight! You will have to check it out!!
