I haven't forgotten about this project! I'm currently busy revising the first chapter in outline format, AND I'm busy fleshing out the second chapter too.
To be truthful, I've changed a lot in what happens in the second chapter, and it's making me go back and fix the story here and there. In the end, I feel it will bring a smoother transition when we *re-introduce some characters later in the story.
So far, with the change in how the story will be presented, I've been looking up ways to depict the first chapter in a graphic novel setting. I've learned that I need to create a comic script, and to make it easier on the artist, a rough draft thumbnails of the panels and dialogue I want in it.
At the moment, I'm really trying to breathe some life into the second chapter, as I've always felt it didn't really have any particular point except for introducing a character that joins with Leo. It wasn't enough! But now, however, the chapter has it's own mini-story! I'm really excited to write it, which is a great thing!
It delves into the history behind Seriage, the orphan kid. It not only talks about his bringing up, but introduces other characters who will eventually be an integral part of the story later on in the entire series!
Friday, December 30, 2011
Wednesday, December 21, 2011
A few updates...
Been a while since I've posted here, figured I'd stop by and keep this place cozy.
So the story since last I've done any work was on the back burner in my head... Until recently.
With the help of a friend, we managed to come up with an idea on getting this story out. But first...
So the story since last I've done any work was on the back burner in my head... Until recently.
With the help of a friend, we managed to come up with an idea on getting this story out. But first...
Leo
And the Legends of Ra'Mechk'nam
Book 1: The Lion and the Scout
The new title for Kendara's Tales. I can't claim credit on it however, as my own four-year-old son actually came up with the title himself! This actually is what reignited my desire in seeing this story come to life!
Anyway, after all of that, my collaborator and myself managed to iron out some details about the story.
First of all, I'm going in a different approach of how the story will be told (at least until I manage to get someone to write this for me, hah!). The decision has been made to make it into a graphic novel, which I feel works good, if not better than what I had in mind.
Ultimately, this story is meant to attract a crowd of a younger generation, and graphic novels is one course you can take this into.
Second, I've noticed that I have the tendancy to start something and not finish it, and start somewhere else and not finish it. In order to fight that, I'm breaking down the first chapter in a way I originally wanted to, now that the pressure of having to write this all on my own is temporarily relieved - in a sort of timeline format. This way, I can focus on one chapter at a time, and can obsess over how I can make it better, or find something to make it look or feel like it's in the appropriate age-range (the story is primarily intended to kids, but will feature plots and subplots that teens to young adults may have an interest in).
To demonstrate what I am talking about, I have copied and paste the first chapter in this format! Take a look!
Chapter One - The Mysterious Beast
(Outline Format)
1. [picture] Thunder rumbles in the distance, as we pan down below and see the villagers head home from their task in the midnight rainstorm. [written] The town name is Mayfield, located within the heart of the province Sequestered Valley, in the middle of the great kingdom of Balashar.
2. [picture/written] Adam Tolomane walks with his compatriots, satisfied with their work in safeguarding the crops from flooding. He’s a family man, but also a man that every peasant looks up to.
3. During walk back to town, villagers show frustration at lack of attention Count Menneken gives to the farms, or even the people themselves. Adam listens to their complaints.
4. Ever since Menneken took the reins from his father Regent Lord Bartholomew, the entire province of Sequestered Valley has been losing crops, villagers, and money. Taxes keep raising, the poor are working harder to keep their homes, and the amount of high king officials has vanished completely. Villagers are beginning to feel like the high king no longer is looking after them, and that Count Menneken is corrupt.
5. In the nearby trees, a creature lurks, eyeing the group of villagers. A soft hiss sound can be heard, as it makes its way to the unsuspecting targets.
6. The sound of a fiendish horn blows in the distance, Adam hears it and turns toward the nearby forest. A crack of lightning flashes, Adam gets a glimpse of something large and ugly making its way to them - tells the villagers to run, and Adam turns to face the beast.
7. Beast lunges after Adam, but is blocked by a thrown barrel into its face. Momentarily slowing it. Gives Adam enough time to plan his next move. He sees a shovel.
8. Adam grabs the shovel, in time to stop the lizard monstrosity from closing its ugly mouth around Adam. The monster hisses in frustration and whacks Adam with his clubbed tail.
9. Adam is thrown into debris, sees pitchfork and uses it to fend off the creature. Villagers in distance begin to ring the town bell, alerting the town and its police force.
10. Village begins to get word of the attack, all the way up to Newhaven Keep, where a man peers out of the window, surveying the action. The man, turns, with his wicked grin, and tells a shadowy figure that he intends to continue with his next phase, walking out into the rain with his guards.
11. Scene is changed with a flash of lightning, we see Adam's home, where all is not well. Inside, Adam's son, Leo, is tossing and turning, disturbed by his nightmare. Mother sits by him, worried.
12. Mother knows what Leo is going through, for she went through something similar at his age (now thirteen). It is all part of the process, and is part of his bloodline, just like Kyndrea’s father, and great grandfather before him.
13. She has been trying to prepare him for he may (or may not, she hopes) would have to face. Over the past few weeks, she knew that his dreams would worsen, the calling would begin for him.
14. Leo tosses and turns, sweating, panting, eyelids moving left and right. His nightmare worsens as the sound of thunder rumbles ever closer to the village of Mayfair.
15. In the dream, Leo is surrounded by creatures with horrible visages. Rain is pouring over him, lightning flashes and he could see the glimpse of teeth and claws, reaching toward him, trying to grab him or something that he is holding. Overhead, he hears the cackles and screams of flying monsters. He screams for help, and suddenly the floor beneath him crumbles and falls through.
16. He is now surrounded by walls of flame, and in the background, he sees the slithery silhouette of a monstrous creature, calling to him, coming closer and closer. A loud scream rings his head, and he hears a man yelling “Look out!” Leo wakes suddenly.
17. The nightmare being over, Leo is sitting up, with his mother holding him. Although awake, he knows that something is not right, and his senses are still heightened – as if something is telling him to be wary. He asks his mother the whereabouts of his father, Adam.
18. Kyndrea knew it wasn’t meant to be a question she can answer, for she too felt that strange feeling that something was wrong.
19. The police force can be seen running toward the fields, where Adam is at the brink of losing a battle. Suddenly through the pouring rain, the sound of a vile horn is heard once more, and the mysterious beast screeches into the howling wind, and vanishes.
20. A crowd gathers in the village square, as townsfolk make room for the police guard bringing the only man to be injured from the monster’s attack – Adam Tolomane. Leo and Kyndrea reach the crowd, and both run toward Police Chief Victor Carlsburg, who is supporting Adam.
21. Adam tells them to not worry, but is suddenly drowned by the angry villagers, demanding to know why Menneken has not done anything about the beast. Just then, the sound of neighing horses is heard, and a band of armored men come galloping from the keep’s direction.
22. Count Menneken calls everyone to gather around him. He begins to discuss the happenings, and shows concern over the injured peasant. The villagers start demanding what Menneken is about to do it with the problem. It had been the third time that week that the mysterious beast had attacked the town. It is known now that they are relieved that there were no kidnappings this time around.
23. Lightning flashed, with a sudden boom of thunder in the village is heard, startling the villagers during their argument. Menneken takes advantage of the pause, and starts to explain what exactly he plans on doing about the beast.
24. He introduces the horsed men around himself. He has gone through great lengths to find help with the beast, as it is apparently needed (demeaning way toward Victor and his police guard about the unsuccessful attempts at them slaying it, or finding the creature), and has found an answer for all the problems.
25. He introduces the brave, courageous, noble mercenary company The Ravenous Redeemers. The men come forward in their horses. Courageous and noble are certainly words the villagers would not use to describe them. Mean looking, snarling, some wearing smirks, others scowling.
26. Menneken explains to the villagers that Captain Cragen is well known in the south for defending villages, estates against enemies. They will begin patrolling the roads in and out of the village, and have already sent a squad to the north in search of the beast. Villagers show concerns as they feel uneasy with the new crowd that will be hanging around.
27. Finally dispersing the crowd, Menneken heads back to his keep, while the mercenary company decides to stick around to patrol the streets.
28. The next morning, Adam is sitting in his bed, with a bandaged leg and arm, and some bandages around his ribs. Kyndrea tends to him and they discuss that the recent happenings seem troublesome. All the sudden changes, it seems as though Count Menneken is using them for something more sinister.
29. Leo overhears, and proceeds to do his chores. Grabs some bags and heads to the market.
30. At the market, Leo sees a crowd gathering around a wanted sign. He hears the crowd discussing the options of the bounty. Leo squeezes through to read the sign himself. The bounty is for the mysterious beast, and the reward is gold beyond anyone’s imagination. Several people love the idea, groups begin to form as people decide to take action in their own hands.
31. Leo begins to imagine just how amazing it would be to have the money; take his mom out of her job, his father no longer having to work, they could move away from Mayfield, perhaps live somewhere more luxurious. During this, he suddenly blurts out that he’s going to go and slay the beast.
32. The crowd around him begins to laugh. Some mocked him, while others felt sorry the little lad. He feels embarrassed, and angry and runs away, dropping his groceries.
33. Running toward the outskirts of the market, toward the edge of town, Leo falls to his knees, tears streaming down his face. Behind him an old man approaches.
34. The Old Man calls to Leo, holding the bags of groceries Leo dropped. He hands the bags over, trying to comfort Leo. Leo thanks the Old Man, and they start talking about the bounty.
35. The Old Man, who seems old and feeble, tells Leo about how an adventure like that would change his outlook in life. Convinces Leo in going forth with his idea. The Old Man then reveals from behind his back a rusty-looking shield, and offers it as a gift to Leo.
36. As Leo grabbed it, he was surprised how incredibly light it was, warm to the touch, and felt like it had always belonged to him. Leo heads home with the bags and the shield around his back, thanks the Old Man once more and vanishes from the Old Man’s sight.
37. Back at home, Leo tries to find the courage in talking to his parents about his decision. He first talks with his mother, Kyndrea. The look in his eyes, the stance he had, it was all she needed to know about what she has been dreaming about. She then notices the shield, and then states that the next part of his life is about to take place.
38. She explains to him that over the past weeks, she’s been trying to prepare him for what’s to come, and tells him to go forth on his journey. Leo tells Kyndrea what he plans on doing, and knows it seems like a crazy idea, but Kyndrea only gives him a hug and tells herself that everything is going to be okay.
39. When Leo finally talks to his father about his decision, both parents decide to talk to him about his ancestry. It is revealed that both parents knew that eventually Leo will have to go out on his own and discover his true self. Leo is amazed to hear that his ancestors were men and women that were truly courageous and strong, and that it’s all from Kyndrea’s side of the family.
40. Afterward, they pack his belongings. Adam manages to get up and hand him his old sword, a trusty one-handed weapon that has seen many battles in Adam's younger years. Kyndrea also hands Leo a pair of twin daggers that she has kept as a gift from her great-grandfather, telling Leo that they will serve a better purpose with him on his journey. Leo sets out north to the location of the beast. (It is previously known that the beast resides in the mountains, reading the bounty post from the market)
41. As Leo heads out to town, he is stopped by the Old Man. The Old Man tells Leo that he should head to the nearby village of Farranstown, where Leo will find extra provisions, and possibly receive help from the villagers there. Leo thanks him and continues north to visit the town first.
42. Back at the keep, Count Menneken walks along a hallway, and meets with Captain Cragen. He discusses with Cragen that all is going as planned. He tells the captain of the hired mercenaries that the bounty has been posted, and there are reports that groups of villagers are going forth to claim the beasts’ life for the outrageous reward.
43. Cragen inquires about his second-in-command person, Jack d’Vane, curious as to why he is stationed along the mountain pass. Menneken explains that Jack and his fellow trappers are stationed there to capture any and all travelers crossing into the mountain pass to find the beast hidden in a cave.
44. He wants Jack to capture them all, and haul them away to his newly built dungeon so that Menneken can use them for experiments with his alchemy. Cragen is dismissed.
45. From the shadows, a hooded person creeps forward, and Menneken tells this person to continue spying on all the events that are happening. You see a glimpse of her eyes, and you can vaguely see them glow from the torch-lit fire. She then steps back into the shadows and vanishes. The chapter is ended with Menneken, overlooking the town below, with a hint of a smile on his face.
Okay!! So because this is supposed to be in a graphic novel type setting (ie, comic panels and dialogue), there is so much more for me to do on this first chapter. This version of the first chapter is already outdated.
So there you have it, I will begin posting updates, and previewing the progress here on my blog.
Tuesday, June 7, 2011
By Break of Dawn (3 poems)
1. In the tents, the soldiers lay
Through the night, they hope and pray.
3. The dawning nears, it will be soon
In the gloom and still lagoon.
5. When at last the shouts begin,
And so they join the mortal sin.
7. The war it seemed as if to go
Until the sun had lost its glow.
9. Instead the sky was red with fire!
Throughout the land, the deaths grew higher
11. The fallen, dragged through the mud,
And through the rivers of painted blood.
13. At last the battle became withdrawn.
Begin it will by break of dawn.
94
1. The soldiers marched through the night.
Toward the beacon of guided light.
3. Up the trail and through the gloom;
Down the hill, and toward their doom.
5. In the distance, you could hear
The drums of war, that caused much fear.
7. The morning light arrived to them;
The battle signal of their condemn.
9. They charged to battle, in full array
To cause the enemy much dismay
11. Into the night, the sky turned red
Against the fires of hate that spread.
13. The night had ended, the battle foregone
So they wait by break of dawn.
93
1. Here displayed, within our hands
A ruthless giant, with more demands.
3. The tales of war, hate, and evil
Have all been told by man’s own equal.
5. Yet when dust may settle, afterward,
We start to wonder - who drew the sword?
7. The loss of life, family or friend,
The ultimate price, but "a means to an end".
9. And when the wars had reach their end,
Did they reflect what we intend?
11. So it is said, "We reap what we sow".
Supplanting the hopes with darkened woe.
13. The race of man shan’t look upon.
Perhaps we shall by break of dawn.
100
Through the night, they hope and pray.
3. The dawning nears, it will be soon
In the gloom and still lagoon.
5. When at last the shouts begin,
And so they join the mortal sin.
7. The war it seemed as if to go
Until the sun had lost its glow.
9. Instead the sky was red with fire!
Throughout the land, the deaths grew higher
11. The fallen, dragged through the mud,
And through the rivers of painted blood.
13. At last the battle became withdrawn.
Begin it will by break of dawn.
94
1. The soldiers marched through the night.
Toward the beacon of guided light.
3. Up the trail and through the gloom;
Down the hill, and toward their doom.
5. In the distance, you could hear
The drums of war, that caused much fear.
7. The morning light arrived to them;
The battle signal of their condemn.
9. They charged to battle, in full array
To cause the enemy much dismay
11. Into the night, the sky turned red
Against the fires of hate that spread.
13. The night had ended, the battle foregone
So they wait by break of dawn.
93
1. Here displayed, within our hands
A ruthless giant, with more demands.
3. The tales of war, hate, and evil
Have all been told by man’s own equal.
5. Yet when dust may settle, afterward,
We start to wonder - who drew the sword?
7. The loss of life, family or friend,
The ultimate price, but "a means to an end".
9. And when the wars had reach their end,
Did they reflect what we intend?
11. So it is said, "We reap what we sow".
Supplanting the hopes with darkened woe.
13. The race of man shan’t look upon.
Perhaps we shall by break of dawn.
100
Monday, March 14, 2011
Revised, Prologue
Prologue -The Vision
Lightning crashed against a farm house that had already been set ablaze. Even with the storm's curtains of rain, it could not extinguish the raging inferno wrought by the fires that had spread throughout the village. Fires, caused by a source unimaginable - monstrous, wicked lizards that roamed the paths, terrorizing those who tried to find cover. Their mutated forms, some grotesque and slimy, others muscular and thorny, all of them with the intent of total destruction.
Nearby, on top of a shadowy mountain, stood an all-powerful tyrant and a villain. He was the man responsible for all the spawned monstrosities across the lands, and the one who stood in the way of peace. The vile lizards mutated by this man were cruel, unmerciful, and deadly. He overlooked the scene going on below him, and laughed maniacally. To him, everything was going as planned. He yelled to the skies, claiming that there was nothing they could do to stop him and his forces, and that the world was his to dominate.
The sky above had an answer for the villain.
Beams of light broke out of the clouds in the stormy sky. From these beams, magnificent flying beasts, known as winged sphinxes, descended into the battle. The sphinxes swooped down and began their attack against the creatures. As wicked as the lizards were, they were no match for a sphinx in single combat. However, the fights weren't fair as it was usually four or five of them against one sphinx.
The diabolical mastermind scoffed, and blew a vile horn, summoning winged versions of his land-based creations. Their raging screams alerted the newfound allies below. Knowing they were outnumbered, the sphinxes separated and charged upward. Their speed was great and their attacks were fierce against the monstrous flying mutations.
Satisfied, the evil corrupter proceeded with the next phase of his evil scheme. With a flash of lightning he began changing his form from human to monster. Wings formed at his shoulder blades and stretched out far, his face contorted, sprouting fangs and horns. His tongue became that of a serpent, while his fingers grew to enormous claws. Then his body spawned another set of arms, and a spiky tail slithered down behind him.
Suddenly, a column of wondrous light shot down at the transformed human. A blinding light that caused the great foe to wince and cover his eyes with his leathery bat-like wings. He turned away for a second, and once he turned back, there stood a magnificent winged lion-sphinx. His name was Leo and he glowed with raw power, as he walked toward the evil villain.
The dark master grinned wickedly, and began to harness the evils that surrounded them. Throwing everything he had at the creature that spawned from the radiant light, his attacks were deflected off the lion-sphinx - as if protected by a shield of power. The villain began to question himself. Could it be? Has there always been someone that could stop him? With a thunderous boom that seemed to have echoed throughout all the land, the lion-sphinx spoke out, but it was directed toward another. "It is time," his gaze piercing at the one having the vision, awakening him abruptly.
Rising from his slumber, the sphinx ruler knew it was time to fulfill the prophecy, and to find the one known as Leo. He glanced toward the sky, and as if to reassure him, the stars that had aligned themselves that night were no longer in the same order as before. Voral must know of this, he thought, and with the reflex only given to that of the cat family, he leaped gracefully across the sky chamber toward the archway, leading to the Hall of Kings. Moving past the hall, he roared, signaling to his personal guards and giving them orders to summon the Council of Five. It was time to bring the vision to the Oracle, to his close allies, and to his people, that perhaps peace at last would be coming soon to the world of Kendara.
Lightning crashed against a farm house that had already been set ablaze. Even with the storm's curtains of rain, it could not extinguish the raging inferno wrought by the fires that had spread throughout the village. Fires, caused by a source unimaginable - monstrous, wicked lizards that roamed the paths, terrorizing those who tried to find cover. Their mutated forms, some grotesque and slimy, others muscular and thorny, all of them with the intent of total destruction.
Nearby, on top of a shadowy mountain, stood an all-powerful tyrant and a villain. He was the man responsible for all the spawned monstrosities across the lands, and the one who stood in the way of peace. The vile lizards mutated by this man were cruel, unmerciful, and deadly. He overlooked the scene going on below him, and laughed maniacally. To him, everything was going as planned. He yelled to the skies, claiming that there was nothing they could do to stop him and his forces, and that the world was his to dominate.
The sky above had an answer for the villain.
Beams of light broke out of the clouds in the stormy sky. From these beams, magnificent flying beasts, known as winged sphinxes, descended into the battle. The sphinxes swooped down and began their attack against the creatures. As wicked as the lizards were, they were no match for a sphinx in single combat. However, the fights weren't fair as it was usually four or five of them against one sphinx.
The diabolical mastermind scoffed, and blew a vile horn, summoning winged versions of his land-based creations. Their raging screams alerted the newfound allies below. Knowing they were outnumbered, the sphinxes separated and charged upward. Their speed was great and their attacks were fierce against the monstrous flying mutations.
Satisfied, the evil corrupter proceeded with the next phase of his evil scheme. With a flash of lightning he began changing his form from human to monster. Wings formed at his shoulder blades and stretched out far, his face contorted, sprouting fangs and horns. His tongue became that of a serpent, while his fingers grew to enormous claws. Then his body spawned another set of arms, and a spiky tail slithered down behind him.
Suddenly, a column of wondrous light shot down at the transformed human. A blinding light that caused the great foe to wince and cover his eyes with his leathery bat-like wings. He turned away for a second, and once he turned back, there stood a magnificent winged lion-sphinx. His name was Leo and he glowed with raw power, as he walked toward the evil villain.
The dark master grinned wickedly, and began to harness the evils that surrounded them. Throwing everything he had at the creature that spawned from the radiant light, his attacks were deflected off the lion-sphinx - as if protected by a shield of power. The villain began to question himself. Could it be? Has there always been someone that could stop him? With a thunderous boom that seemed to have echoed throughout all the land, the lion-sphinx spoke out, but it was directed toward another. "It is time," his gaze piercing at the one having the vision, awakening him abruptly.
Rising from his slumber, the sphinx ruler knew it was time to fulfill the prophecy, and to find the one known as Leo. He glanced toward the sky, and as if to reassure him, the stars that had aligned themselves that night were no longer in the same order as before. Voral must know of this, he thought, and with the reflex only given to that of the cat family, he leaped gracefully across the sky chamber toward the archway, leading to the Hall of Kings. Moving past the hall, he roared, signaling to his personal guards and giving them orders to summon the Council of Five. It was time to bring the vision to the Oracle, to his close allies, and to his people, that perhaps peace at last would be coming soon to the world of Kendara.
Thursday, February 17, 2011
The Mysterious Beast, continued
Meanwhile, the Tolomane home was disturbed, as Adam's only son, Leo, tosses about in his bed. Within the stormy night, the young boy, only thirteen years of age, dreamt again. A nightmare he's had over the past couple of months. Across the room by the doorway, stood the boy's mother, Kyndrea. It would be the second time that evening that she would have to wake him from the nightmare.
Kyndrea watched over her son, stressed over how much more Leo will have to endure before fully realizing a gift passed down from her bloodline. On the outside of the motherly complexion, Kyndrea Marie Tolomane is an ordinary maid; serving Lord Dominick in his house six days of the week - one of Count Menneken's lap dogs living in comfort and wealth. She strives to make the men in her life happy, at times overworking herself, but even doing so, she knows that she must continue with her daily routine.
And now her only son had finally come of age. Over the weeks, she had begun to prepare him for the challenges he may (or may not) face. She knew that her son had been dreaming of terrible things. Things that neither she nor Leo could comprehend. Nevertheless, being the son of Kyndrea, it's in his blood; just like her father before him.
Placing a warm damp cloth over Leo's head, she grabs his hand, leaning over him, calling to him to wake. Leo continued to squirm under his blankets. The sudden sound of thunder overhead had brought him deeper into his nightmare.
All around him, creatures of horrifying visages have him surrounded. All Leo can see are gruesome faces with teeth, hungering for him, or for something that he possesses. Looking up, he sees the stormy sky, the rain pouring over him and his friends. The lightning dancing around him, and with every flash of the wicked light, sees creatures above, flying around him, cackling at the howling wind that had forced him to buckle to his knees. The sense of his mother calling to him, begging him to turn around, or to run away gives him a small amount of strength, to try once again and flee. But just then, the scenery changes, and walls of flame suddenly crowd him. The roar of the fire finally has him paralyzed, kneeling on the ground, hiding his face from what he knows not. Suddenly the sound of his mother, screaming at him, makes Leo involuntarily look up, and behind the walls of flame, a gigantic, almost snake-like silhouette, comes toward him. Leo screams and opens his eyes, and finds himself sitting up in his bed, with his mother holding on to him, as if there was no tomorrow.
Although he knew the nightmare was over, Leo felt an overwhelming sense of urgency - to do something before it's too late. Panting, he jerked his head to look at his mother and asked, "Father's not home yet?" The question itself was more of a statement to Kyndrea, for she too had the feeling that something was very wrong.
Kyndrea watched over her son, stressed over how much more Leo will have to endure before fully realizing a gift passed down from her bloodline. On the outside of the motherly complexion, Kyndrea Marie Tolomane is an ordinary maid; serving Lord Dominick in his house six days of the week - one of Count Menneken's lap dogs living in comfort and wealth. She strives to make the men in her life happy, at times overworking herself, but even doing so, she knows that she must continue with her daily routine.
And now her only son had finally come of age. Over the weeks, she had begun to prepare him for the challenges he may (or may not) face. She knew that her son had been dreaming of terrible things. Things that neither she nor Leo could comprehend. Nevertheless, being the son of Kyndrea, it's in his blood; just like her father before him.
Placing a warm damp cloth over Leo's head, she grabs his hand, leaning over him, calling to him to wake. Leo continued to squirm under his blankets. The sudden sound of thunder overhead had brought him deeper into his nightmare.
All around him, creatures of horrifying visages have him surrounded. All Leo can see are gruesome faces with teeth, hungering for him, or for something that he possesses. Looking up, he sees the stormy sky, the rain pouring over him and his friends. The lightning dancing around him, and with every flash of the wicked light, sees creatures above, flying around him, cackling at the howling wind that had forced him to buckle to his knees. The sense of his mother calling to him, begging him to turn around, or to run away gives him a small amount of strength, to try once again and flee. But just then, the scenery changes, and walls of flame suddenly crowd him. The roar of the fire finally has him paralyzed, kneeling on the ground, hiding his face from what he knows not. Suddenly the sound of his mother, screaming at him, makes Leo involuntarily look up, and behind the walls of flame, a gigantic, almost snake-like silhouette, comes toward him. Leo screams and opens his eyes, and finds himself sitting up in his bed, with his mother holding on to him, as if there was no tomorrow.
Although he knew the nightmare was over, Leo felt an overwhelming sense of urgency - to do something before it's too late. Panting, he jerked his head to look at his mother and asked, "Father's not home yet?" The question itself was more of a statement to Kyndrea, for she too had the feeling that something was very wrong.
Sunday, February 13, 2011
The Mysterious Beast, take 2
The thunder continued to rumble across the skies, while the rain poured down on the workers returning to their homes from their field work. During the middle of the night, Adam Tolomane walked alongside his compatriots and discussed the going-ons of their village and the surrounding towns. After spending almost the entire day working around the village to safeguard it from the seasonal floods, the farmers fields still needed to be taken care of. The village had to rely mainly on their farmers ever since the High King's traders had mysteriously discontinued their trade routes to the southern province of Sequestered Valley.
Adam Tolomane; a strong, proud man, was respected by his fellow peers, neighbors, and workers. The villagers of the small community of Malenor differed to him with all issues that affected the low, working class. They gave him the attention one would expect for a governor, or a high-ranking nobleman; someone who had earned the title by the high king of Balashar himself. The same respect that should have been given to the ruling nobleman, Count Menneken Duball, provincial overseer of Sequestered Valley.
A man like him, with the gift of using his silver tongue to get just about anything he wanted, who had quietly and smoothly transitioned to the ruling count - replacing his own father, Regent Lord Bartholomew Duball - should be given the proper respect. Many of the villagers around the province had come to him for aid, but instead were turned away, paying more taxes, doubling the hours they had to work to make ends meet. People would whisper about the corruption that had befell their villages. Their concerns fell on deaf ears from the visiting nobleman from other parts of Balashar.
Things had gotten worse when Count Menneken had hired an outside military presence to help police the nearby towns. Police Chief Lord Victor Carlsburg urged Menneken to cancel the contract he had made with the mercenary guild known as the Ravenous Redeemers; a collection of vile, ruthless warriors, yearning for more gold in their pocket, and disposing anyone that would trouble them and their financial affairs in such a horrific way, that the villagers were all but afraid to step out of line.
No one would dare confront Count Menneken and his cronies. No one except Adam Tolomane. But Adam Tolomane is a family man, and that's what the townsfolk want. Someone who listens, and understands their issues.
As the workers continued their path toward their homes, the sound of hissing could be heard in the shadows across the fields. Something followed nearby, stalking the group of men in the thunderous night. The unsuspecting villagers were unaware of the threat lurking beyond the trees.
Adam Tolomane; a strong, proud man, was respected by his fellow peers, neighbors, and workers. The villagers of the small community of Malenor differed to him with all issues that affected the low, working class. They gave him the attention one would expect for a governor, or a high-ranking nobleman; someone who had earned the title by the high king of Balashar himself. The same respect that should have been given to the ruling nobleman, Count Menneken Duball, provincial overseer of Sequestered Valley.
A man like him, with the gift of using his silver tongue to get just about anything he wanted, who had quietly and smoothly transitioned to the ruling count - replacing his own father, Regent Lord Bartholomew Duball - should be given the proper respect. Many of the villagers around the province had come to him for aid, but instead were turned away, paying more taxes, doubling the hours they had to work to make ends meet. People would whisper about the corruption that had befell their villages. Their concerns fell on deaf ears from the visiting nobleman from other parts of Balashar.
Things had gotten worse when Count Menneken had hired an outside military presence to help police the nearby towns. Police Chief Lord Victor Carlsburg urged Menneken to cancel the contract he had made with the mercenary guild known as the Ravenous Redeemers; a collection of vile, ruthless warriors, yearning for more gold in their pocket, and disposing anyone that would trouble them and their financial affairs in such a horrific way, that the villagers were all but afraid to step out of line.
No one would dare confront Count Menneken and his cronies. No one except Adam Tolomane. But Adam Tolomane is a family man, and that's what the townsfolk want. Someone who listens, and understands their issues.
As the workers continued their path toward their homes, the sound of hissing could be heard in the shadows across the fields. Something followed nearby, stalking the group of men in the thunderous night. The unsuspecting villagers were unaware of the threat lurking beyond the trees.
Friday, February 11, 2011
Chapter 1 - The Mysterious Beast
The prologue that describes the vision leads to the beginning of this chapter.
The storm carries over to this new land. As the skies rumble on, you begin to read the descriptions of a farm town, out in the crop fields, where workers are finally heading home after a long days labor. Here we meet the father of the main character, Adam Tolomane. Strong, proud man, but at the same time a caring individual who is respected by his fellow peers, neighbors, and workers.
The villagers differ to him about the going-ons of the small community within the sequestered province, in their small town of Malenor. They give him the attention one would expect for a governor, or a high-ranking nobleman; someone who has earned the title by the high king of Balashar himself.
But Adam Tolomane is a family man, and that's what the townsfolk want. Someone who listens, and understands their issues.
As the farmers and laborers are walking from the fields, they hear a terrifying sound. Lightning dances in the sky and the villagers see a flash of an enormous creature. Adam yells to his peers to find cover.
The storm carries over to this new land. As the skies rumble on, you begin to read the descriptions of a farm town, out in the crop fields, where workers are finally heading home after a long days labor. Here we meet the father of the main character, Adam Tolomane. Strong, proud man, but at the same time a caring individual who is respected by his fellow peers, neighbors, and workers.
The villagers differ to him about the going-ons of the small community within the sequestered province, in their small town of Malenor. They give him the attention one would expect for a governor, or a high-ranking nobleman; someone who has earned the title by the high king of Balashar himself.
But Adam Tolomane is a family man, and that's what the townsfolk want. Someone who listens, and understands their issues.
As the farmers and laborers are walking from the fields, they hear a terrifying sound. Lightning dances in the sky and the villagers see a flash of an enormous creature. Adam yells to his peers to find cover.
Friday, February 4, 2011
Paragraph taken from The Tribes document
Also found in tribes are the holy men/women. The Tree Dwellers have Shamans, where the Mountain People have Spirit Healers, and the Plain Herders have Rainmen. The tribes who dwell in the jungles usually are against such “holy” things, and feel that in their own right deserve to take from the earth, water, and air as they please. They have Witchdoctors who are trained in such a way that can do amazing and terrifying magic. The holy men and women can do wonderful things as well. They are more in tuned with nature and all living things, and therefore are able to do what Healers could usually not do: cure droughts, plague, and even sometimes revive a person who had just lost their life.
The Jungle Dwellers defense
The Jungle Dwellers of the southern rainforests did not participate with the war, as they were the only tribes people that had a weapon that caused the new races to leave their lands willingly. Because of their more primal lifestyle, they had found a way to take from the earth, air, water, fire, and even the soul. With this magic, their witchdoctors were able to drive the men of the armies insane, and eventually caused them to leave, in a horrible victory that would always give both northern tribes and the new race chills down their spines.
Tuesday, February 1, 2011
Kendara's Tale, Book One: The Lion and the Scout
Prologue -The Vision
Beams of light broke out of the clouds in the stormy sky. From these beams, magnificent flying beasts, known as winged sphinxes, descended into the battle. Their speed was great and their attacks were fierce against the monstrous flying mutations that were harassing the lands below. Nearby, on top of a shadowy mountain, stood an all-powerful tyrant and a villain. He was the man responsible for all the spawned monstrosities across the lands, and the one who stood in the way of peace. The vile lizards spawned by this man were terrifying and deadly. The sphinxes swooped down upon them and continued their attack against the creatures. As wicked as the lizards were, they were no match for a sphinx in single combat. However, the fights weren't fair as it was usually four or five of the mutated lizards against one sphinx.
He overlooked the war going on below him, and laughed. With a flash of lightning he began changing his form from human to monster. Wings formed at his shoulder blades and stretched out far, his face contorted, sprouting fangs and horns. His tongue became that of a serpent, while his fingers grew to enormous claws. Then his body spawned another set of arms, and a spiky tail slithered down behind him. He yelled to the skies, claiming that there was nothing they could do to stop him and his forces, and that the world was his to dominate.
Suddenly, a beam of wondrous light shot down at the transformed human. A blinding light, that caused the great foe to wince and cover his eyes with his bat-like wings. He turned away for a second, and once he turned back, there stood a magnificent winged lion-sphinx. His name was Leo, and he glowed with raw power, as he walked toward the evil villain. The dark master threw everything he had, but all his attacks were deflected off the lion-sphinx, as if protected by a shield of power. Then the lion-sphinx spoke out, but it was directed toward another. "It is time," his gaze piercing at the one having the vision, awakening him abruptly.
Rising from his slumber, the sphinx ruler knew it was time to fulfill the prophecy, and to find the one known as Leo. He moved swiftly down the hall, and signaled his personal guards to summon the council. It was time to bring the vision to the Oracle, and perhaps bring peace to the world of Kendara.
Beams of light broke out of the clouds in the stormy sky. From these beams, magnificent flying beasts, known as winged sphinxes, descended into the battle. Their speed was great and their attacks were fierce against the monstrous flying mutations that were harassing the lands below. Nearby, on top of a shadowy mountain, stood an all-powerful tyrant and a villain. He was the man responsible for all the spawned monstrosities across the lands, and the one who stood in the way of peace. The vile lizards spawned by this man were terrifying and deadly. The sphinxes swooped down upon them and continued their attack against the creatures. As wicked as the lizards were, they were no match for a sphinx in single combat. However, the fights weren't fair as it was usually four or five of the mutated lizards against one sphinx.
He overlooked the war going on below him, and laughed. With a flash of lightning he began changing his form from human to monster. Wings formed at his shoulder blades and stretched out far, his face contorted, sprouting fangs and horns. His tongue became that of a serpent, while his fingers grew to enormous claws. Then his body spawned another set of arms, and a spiky tail slithered down behind him. He yelled to the skies, claiming that there was nothing they could do to stop him and his forces, and that the world was his to dominate.
Suddenly, a beam of wondrous light shot down at the transformed human. A blinding light, that caused the great foe to wince and cover his eyes with his bat-like wings. He turned away for a second, and once he turned back, there stood a magnificent winged lion-sphinx. His name was Leo, and he glowed with raw power, as he walked toward the evil villain. The dark master threw everything he had, but all his attacks were deflected off the lion-sphinx, as if protected by a shield of power. Then the lion-sphinx spoke out, but it was directed toward another. "It is time," his gaze piercing at the one having the vision, awakening him abruptly.
Rising from his slumber, the sphinx ruler knew it was time to fulfill the prophecy, and to find the one known as Leo. He moved swiftly down the hall, and signaled his personal guards to summon the council. It was time to bring the vision to the Oracle, and perhaps bring peace to the world of Kendara.
Revising
Revised the old prologue to explain a little bit about the villain and his part with the lizard monsters.
Leo's story, prologue
In the world known as Kendara, there lies a land, known as Balashar. In this land, the indigenous natives and the newcomers from the far east island continents reside. For nearly eight-hundred years, they have lived in peace, though at times it may have been uneasy.
The Balasharians, as the natives called them, had made a home in the center of the continent. Their nation had stretched to all parts of Balashar, while the tribes people stick to their coastal, forested, mountainous, plains, and frozen lands they have claimed as their own.
When the Balasharians first arrived at the continent known then as The Western Wilds, a terrible war broke out between both races. The tribes people fought diligently and their tactics were unheard of against their new foe. However, the armor and weapons these newcomers brought was something the natives had never produced or seen before.
The war had continued for only one year, until finally the spirits of the land intervened. With the help of both Chief Shar'paw of the Northern Wolves tribe, and the acting Regent Commander Baladain, they had achieved a peace treaty, and eventually allied themselves to help rebuild the communities lost from the war.
Years later, the natives left the newcomers to their doings, returning to the trails the spirits of the land had left for them to follow. With the success both Shar'paw and Baladain had achieved, both races agreed to forever call the land they lived as Balashar.
As mentioned, the natives stick to their environmental regions by choice. Five major tribes people exist in the land. The Forest Dwellers, The Mountain People, The Plain Herders, The Water Catchers, and finally Ice Keepers. There exist one more tribal faction - The Jungle Dwellers, but they have kept to themselves for centuries and do not see eye to eye with their cousin tribes.
The kingdom of Balashar has several provinces and smaller kingdoms who follow the order of the high king. One such province, known as Sequestered Valley resides far south of Balashar, and the influence of the high king is only spoken in whispers.
It is here, that we start the story of Leo, and his friends. What you will read from here on out is the adventure of a young boy that will bring about amazing changes to the ones he loves, and to those who know him.
The Balasharians, as the natives called them, had made a home in the center of the continent. Their nation had stretched to all parts of Balashar, while the tribes people stick to their coastal, forested, mountainous, plains, and frozen lands they have claimed as their own.
When the Balasharians first arrived at the continent known then as The Western Wilds, a terrible war broke out between both races. The tribes people fought diligently and their tactics were unheard of against their new foe. However, the armor and weapons these newcomers brought was something the natives had never produced or seen before.
The war had continued for only one year, until finally the spirits of the land intervened. With the help of both Chief Shar'paw of the Northern Wolves tribe, and the acting Regent Commander Baladain, they had achieved a peace treaty, and eventually allied themselves to help rebuild the communities lost from the war.
Years later, the natives left the newcomers to their doings, returning to the trails the spirits of the land had left for them to follow. With the success both Shar'paw and Baladain had achieved, both races agreed to forever call the land they lived as Balashar.
As mentioned, the natives stick to their environmental regions by choice. Five major tribes people exist in the land. The Forest Dwellers, The Mountain People, The Plain Herders, The Water Catchers, and finally Ice Keepers. There exist one more tribal faction - The Jungle Dwellers, but they have kept to themselves for centuries and do not see eye to eye with their cousin tribes.
The kingdom of Balashar has several provinces and smaller kingdoms who follow the order of the high king. One such province, known as Sequestered Valley resides far south of Balashar, and the influence of the high king is only spoken in whispers.
It is here, that we start the story of Leo, and his friends. What you will read from here on out is the adventure of a young boy that will bring about amazing changes to the ones he loves, and to those who know him.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)