Luke Sky Wachter's Blog, page 13

Notice turned in, Plane ticket Aquired!

I’ve already turned in my notice and purchased the plane ticket.  So starting february, and baring unforeseen calamity,  I’ll be back with the wife and kids and a plethora of time on my hands!

So allowing for a little time to decompress and get back in the swing of things with the family, I should be able to start pounding away again on the Spineward Sectors!

Saint Murphy we’re close!

Thanks to everyone who’s enjoyed the books so far and been waiting (im)patiently for the next one.  I can’t wait to get back in the swing of things.

have a blast,

The Deposed King

Book 3 Delayed

Sadly I will be unable to complete book 3 by the promised deadline of January 2013.

Working 60 hour weeks on the day job just isn’t conducive to producing a quality work.   I’m hopeful that sometime in Spring the 3rd book will be out.  I just need get a few things taken care of first before I can get back to cranking on it.

Apologies,

The Deposed King

Prequel Snippet 5

Because of the extended period when I was down, and wasn’t able to put up snippets here you go!

Chapter: The Driving Rain

Akantha cursed under her breath as she lost her footing on the muddy slope she was climbing. The weather had indeed become worse, as Nazoraios had warned Nykator was possible. The three of them had been traveling for nearly a full day, and while the physical exertion was not as exhausting as Akantha had feared it would be, the never-ending series of rocky hills and muddy slopes was enough to tax her mentally.

Persus took up his position several meters in front of her, and Olgaya was bringing up the rear by the same margin. Persus had gathered plenty of supplies for the journey, including breads, cheeses and skins full of pure spring water. In addition to their heavy skin cloaks, which warded off the worst effects of the rain and cold, he had managed to retrieve Akantha’s formal armor from its pedestal in its place of display without being noticed, which was a significant boon.

Normal armors were crafted from thick plates of various kinds of steel, but being the First Daughter and Land Bride, Akantha was awarded a suit of custom-fitted Stone Rhino armor similar to the one Persus himself wore. This kind of armor was far stronger than the standard metal plate construction which most warriors of Argos wore, as it was many times as strong and possessed a flexibility which allowed the armor to absorb much of the force of an incoming blow, often resulting in a death blow merely staggering its wearer. Such armor was rare, and reserved for only the highly honored of Argos’ society. Harvesting the skin of a Stone Rhino was no easy task, especially since the best skin comes from a fully mature bull during the peak of mating season, as his body prepared itself for battle with rival males by forming a nearly impervious layer of protection.

She stood up from her fall onto the slope and wiped the mud from her breastplate, and even through her leather gloves she could feel the texture of the small bumps which dotted the surface of the armor. They looked like tiny pebbles sticking out of the hide, but she had been told by the craftsman who created this particular suit that they were some sort of gland which became enlarged during rutting season, and it was the emanations of these glands which caused the skin to become so resilient and sought after.

Mindful to recover her pace before one of her companions offered assistance, she set her feet and continued up the slippery surface. They had been moving as quickly as possible for almost an entire day, and she was determined to make up as much ground as possible, especially if the weather continued to worsen.

As they crested the slope, she looked out and saw even more hills, some with small trees growing in their gullies but most of them a dangerous mixture of mud and sharp, jutting rocks.

Persus pointed toward the crest of the next hill, where there appeared to be a large rock formation in the shape of a triangle. “We should make our camp there, my Lady. There is no need to push ourselves further tonight, as we are well outside the path of Argos’ routine patrols,” Persus stated matter-of-factly.

Akantha considered it but shook her head. “No, Persus, we must continue on. If this weather persists, then the runners will take as many as three days to get to the Citadel, which makes the timing of our arrival even more critical than ever,” she said commandingly, but she was suddenly aware just how tired she had become as her legs ached and her arms quivered slightly in the cold.

Persus turned to her, his massive, cloaked frame outlined by a flash of lightning overhead. “My Lady, at our current pace I believe we have barely more than one more day to travel. If we stop for a few hours to eat and recover some of our vigor, we diminish the chance of injuring ourselves on this terrain,” he said, sweeping his arm across the vast rolling hills. “You are correct that our presence is more critical than ever, which is why our health and battle-readiness must be put first.”

Akantha bit her lip and glanced over her shoulder at Olgaya, who was wrapped in the same type of cloak, but wore a much lighter leather armor underneath. Persus had argued with her at the livestock pen to wear a suit of metal armor, or at least a shirt of chain mail but she had refused, stating that her mobility would be too greatly hindered by such ‘clunky and unwieldy armor.’

Olgaya showed no signs of tiring, but Akantha had come to know her as someone who never let her weaknesses show.

Akantha weighed their options, finally nodding her head with resignation at her bodyguard’s suggestion. “You are right, Persus. No one gains by foolishly pushing ourselves to the point of exhaustion. We will make camp there for two hours of rest, then continue on,” she said imperiously, and strode past him to lead the way to the rock formation, hoping to avoid any argument.

They arrived at the open, angular arch formation, which was just over two meters wide at the base and a meter and a half tall at the peak, making it ideal for a shelter. Persus removed his larger cloak and spiked the corners of it into the ground at the edges of the open side where the rain was blowing in, and he tied the collar straps to a jutting rock above the top of the arch, forming a dry cave large enough for the three of them to comfortably rest.

Olgaya opened one of the sacks and produced three medium loaves of bread, a handful of dried beef and a quarter round of cheese, then flipped out a paring knife and began slicing cheese and meat in preparation for sandwiches for the three of them. Persus unslung his water skins and passed a full one to Akantha, then took two empties and went outside to fill them with rainwater.

There was no time to build a fire, and no need with such a short stay in mind. So after Persus finished filling their water skins, Olgaya passed around the sandwiches and they ate in the dark silence.

When they were nearly finished with their meal, Persus turned toward Akantha and asked bluntly, “Why didn’t you inform the Hold Mistress of your plan?”

Akantha had been expecting this question from Olgaya, but not Persus. Momentarily taken aback, she chewed on her sandwich before replying. “My last words to our Hold Mistress were not the most…politic. I wished nothing more than to speak with her to ease any unnecessary friction, but I could not lay this at her feet,” she began. “I know that her position carries with it great responsibility, and that dealing with men like Nykator on a daily basis is like threading a needle while blindfolded.”

Akantha paused to finish the last bites of her sandwich before continuing, and she did so without interruption.

“My mother must place the good of Argos above all else, as that is her duty as Hold Mistress,” she explained. “But as First Daughter and Land Bride, my duty is to House Zosime first, and to her loyal subjects second. In this task, I believe that I am acting in the best interests of my family and the citizens of Argos, but I cannot be certain that my mother would agree.” Akantha stopped again, trying to find the words to continue but was interrupted by Olgaya.

“Not everyone would agree that the First Daughter owes her first duty to her family, Akantha,” Olgaya warned. “To voice such a thought might bring with it certain..consequences.”

Akantha nodded slowly and saw Persus mimicking the gesture.

“Which is why,” Akantha continued, “I could not tell my mother. I cannot be certain she would agree with me even in principle, let alone that she would allow us to undertake this effort on House Zosime’s behalf without alerting everyone of our plans.”

“My Lady,” said Persus with a hint of exasperation in his voice, “Lord Hypatios Nykator is an unequaled warrior in all of the known world. What would lead you to believe that House Zosime, and by extension the Hold of Argos would be better served by his absence?”

“It’s not about supplanting Nykator, Persus,” Akantha said a bit more sharply than she would have liked. She paused and checked herself before continuing, “At least, not entirely. It’s about returning the ability of the Hold Mistress to make that choice herself, as is tradition. My Uncle has become far too influential in recent years, and his position in Argos’ is no longer the traditional role of Protector. He grips Argos in his fist as though he is some kind of King, and his military might has become a destabilizing force in the Great Hall.”

Persus shook his head adamantly. “Argos’ warriors are many, her bastions unparalleled and her banners fly high,” protested her bodyguard. “Even with the entire Tegean Host at his command, or twice that many men, he could never find victory in a war with the armies of Argos,” he insisted.

Akantha nodded and allowed the silence to linger for a moment, but Olgaya interrupted. “And what of our neighbors, like the Lyconese?” asked the freckled handmaiden, having just finished her own meal. “Do you think they would sit idly by while we rebuilt our bastions and armies after such a conflict? This is ignoring the absolute certainty that Nykator would approach them or others before ever mounting such an offensive in an effort to secure his own lineage’s hereditary right to the lands of Argos, even if he and his line must owe some form of fealty to Lyconesia or whatever other state with which he allied himself,” Olgaya explained.

Persus sat back in silence and Akantha glanced over at Olgaya, who was shaping her provision sack as a pillow, taking up position next to the temporary wall Persus’ cloak provided.

Following her friend’s example, she pushed a full water skin up against the rock’s edge and settled in for a short rest next to Olgaya, leaving Persus to his duty: standing watch in the mounting thunderstorm.

Prequel Snippet 4

Update prior to snippet:  My computer has been out of commission for a couple weeks which has set me back on the writing project for the mainline book.  That and I’m going to have to stay in the states until february at least.   I’ll update you as I get more.  That said the last I checked the prequel novella is up to 40-50k words written for the first draft.

Here’s the snippet!

Chapter: A Course of Action

As she returned to her chambers, Akantha beckoned Persus to enter and he did so without argument. It was only the second time he had ever been inside her chambers, and it was against tradition for a bodyguard of the Daughter to the Hold Mistress to enter her chambers unless it was a true emergency.

This, they both knew, was one of those.

Akantha quickly roused Olgaya from her slumber, and after she was awake they sat in the chairs located in the entryway to her more private chambers.

Olgaya listened intently as Akantha described the conversation between the High Protector and old Nazoraios. To her credit, she only blanched once during the telling, and it was at the mention of a slow-moving green star. Akantha was proud for a moment of her best friend’s attention during history lessons.

“So Nazoraios clearly believes the Sky Demons have returned,” mused Olgaya. “And Nykator does not wish to cause alarm or panic in the populace, which would most certainly accompany the public deliberations regarding how many troops to send, and how to compose the battle strategy.”

Akantha nodded. “Or so he says. Uncle Nykator has never shown any sign of fear in the years I have known him, but the mention of Sky Demons seemed to unnerve him,” Akantha said. “Perhaps he is beginning to lose his warrior’s heart,” she spat.

Persus chose this time to interject himself. “My Lady, if the High Protector is as concerned as he appeared to be, then the threat is grave,” he warned in his smooth, unusually deep voice. “Your Mother chose his sword to bear over others because he is unquestionably the most fearless man in the known world and his accomplishments are without equal, outside of fanciful legends told to little boys to make them feel inadequate.”

Akantha was momentarily stunned. Persus had always been reluctant to participate in conversations such as this one, and he had never openly contradicted her as far as she could recall. She drew her breath slowly, her eyes darting this way and that as her mind worked frantically to untangle this mess of information.

Olgaya nodded. “I agree with Persus,” said the freckle-faced handmaiden. “If Hypatios Nykator does not eagerly don his armor in the middle of the night at the opportunity to yet again prove himself the greatest warrior who ever lived, then we must also give heed to caution. We would be fools to do otherwise,” she said flatly.

Akantha actually agreed with her, but this was too great an opportunity to pass by. “I have come to value your insights, Olgaya. And yours, Persus,” she said with a meaningful look at each of them. “I would hear your recommendations now.” She shifted her gaze to Olgaya first, prompting her to go first.

Olgaya slowly nodded for a few seconds. “My Lady is correct in believing this to be a great opportunity. The value in merely chronicling a sighting of these Sky Demons would be immeasurable, as describing them and their behavior could help future generations deal with their malignant threat.” She paused for a moment before continuing, “And if it is possible, then we must try to protect your mother’s loyal subjects, even at the cost of personal safety.”

Akantha nodded, trying desperately to contain the surge of emotion she was feeling. She had to remind herself that this was not the time for brash actions. She needed to keep a level head and do as she was raised to do. She shifted her gaze to her bodyguard. “And you, Persus?”

Persus chewed his cheek, as was his habit during contemplation, Akantha had learned. “Olgaya is correct: this is a great opportunity,” he said finally. “I do not believe we can defeat the Sky Demons without the support of multiple free warrior bands at the very least. But if we could learn of these monsters and their ways, we could bring back valuable information which could help in the development of defense strategies for the Hold.”

Akantha nodded, a savage smile spreading across her lips. ‘At last,’ she thought to herself, ‘an opportunity to force Nykator to remove himself from his position as Protector of Argos.’

Persus sighed, a barely perceptible sound that snapped Akantha from her thoughts.

“What is it, Persus?” she inquired.

Persus paused before replying. “If Nikomedes had not left, he would be ideally suited to this task,” he said cautiously.

Akantha blinked, “What do you mean?” she asked.

“He sought to prove himself worthiest among warriors to become your Protector,” he continued. “This would have provided him a far better opportunity than questing after a long-lost artifact.”

Akantha finally took his meaning and her smile disappeared, being replaced by a hard look which hid behind it growing anger. “You think we are not capable to undertake this task, Persus?” she began coldly. “You believe Nikomedes, or Kapaneus or even that preening fool Kallistos would be better able to deal with this?” Her anger was rising, but she worked hard to keep her thoughts clear.

Persus sighed again, and this time it was a louder sound which carried with it resignation. “My Lady, I believe that the three of us are every bit as capable as whatever band Hypatios Nykator would assemble to deal with the threat,” he said earnestly.

Akantha waited for him to continue, but when he failed to do so she prompted, “But?”

“But, you are the First Daughter of Argos, and the only member of House Zosime’s inheriting line who did not spring from Nykator’s loins,” he said levelly. “You are more valuable to Argos than any band of young warriors ever could be.”

Akantha raised an eyebrow at this. “Am I more valuable than the farmers who plow our fields? Or the craftsmen who fashion the arms and armor which make our warriors the most fearsome in the land? Or the women who bear and raise our young, those who will one day take their places in our society?” She paused as she held her bodyguard’s gaze with eyes which contained pure fury. “No, Persus. I am not more valuable than they are. What I am is responsible to them as their First Daughter; responsible to lead them, to care for them and in difficult times, to protect them,” she said in a voice which did not invite argument.

“Akantha,” began Olgaya, only to be cut off.

“No!” Akantha yelled, jumping to her feet. Her handmaiden and bodyguard sat there in silence for a while.

She reined in her emotions for a moment, took a breath and continued when she was sure she had control of her temper. “We owe it to our subjects to take action on their behalf, and not hide behind excuses or fear. It is our duty as their leaders. If we fail them in that regard, we are little better than savage animals wandering the land in search of our next meal,” she said, feeling her face flushing as she struggled to explain herself to her closest advisors. ‘I shouldn’t have to tell these people this!’ she thought to herself.

Olgaya opened her mouth to respond, but Persus held up a hand which quieted her. “My Lady,” Persus began, “I am sworn to your service, not to the Citadel or even House Zosime. My oath is one which I did not take lightly, or without understanding of what it might one day mean.” He stopped as he visibly struggled to compose his next words. “You asked our advice, and I only offered what I thought was best for Argos and her people. But if you are committed that we are to undertake this task personally, then I am eager for the opportunity to serve my Lady.” He cracked a smile and continued, “I would offer to undertake this mission personally if I thought you would accept, but I know you well enough that to do so would be a waste of air and, more importantly, precious time.” He stood and held his right fist over his heart, “Shall I retrieve your armor and prepare travel gear for three?”

Akantha smiled and looked to Olgaya. Her best friend grinned and nodded, and Akantha had to fight to keep the mist in her eyes from forming tears. “Thank you, Persus. We should meet somewhere we will not be noticed by prying eyes. Secrecy is of the utmost importance,” she said in a more commanding voice than she would have liked.

He nodded. “The old lodge house just outside the Citadel walls, then. I will have everything behind the livestock stables there within the hour.” With that, he turned to the door, opening and closing it almost silently as he made his way down the hall.

Akantha breathed out, and felt the tears that had been forming fall down her cheeks. Shedding tears was not how she had intended to start this adventure, but the avalanche of emotion was just too much for her to bear at the moment.

“Akantha,” Olgaya said softly, striding over to where Akantha was sitting and kneeled in front of her. “What’s wrong?”

Akantha laughed and quickly wiped away her tears. “Nothing’s wrong, Olga. I’m just so proud! We can finally make a difference for Argos,” she gushed, then her visage turned hard. “And if we can ruffle a few feathers among my Uncle’s men, so much the better,” Akantha said icily. “I will not stand by while those whose sworn duty it is to protect our people hide in this fortress. If Nykator refuses to take up arms at the opportunity to do battle with our enemies, then he is not fit to be Protector to my mother! When we return with evidence of his cowardice, my mother will have everything she needs to dismiss him from his post. What she does with such evidence is her choice, but I intend to bring it!”

Olgaya nodded and then chuckled. “Of course, there is no harm in the First Daughter and Land Bride acquiring her own battle honors in the process, right?” asked the red-headed handmaiden.

Akantha glared at her for a moment, then shrugged her shoulders and let a hint of a grin play out over her features. “Who am I to argue with my lady in waiting?” Akantha asked playfully.

They laughed for a few moments before going about the task of preparing themselves for the journey ahead.

Prequel Novella Snippet 3

Chapter: Whispers in the Dark

All of the denizens of the Great Hall had retired shortly after nightfall, so the hallways and corridors were peaceful and quiet, as even the night guards seemed to appreciate the sense of serenity which can only be found in dark silence.

Akantha had been unable to sleep, even after the talk with Olgaya which had brought about its usual calming effect. So she had decided to go for a walk in the Shield Hall since it was thankfully empty of people at this time of night. She desperately needed to find an answer to the question of how to get out of this mess.

She was still furious with her mother for what she considered an open betrayal, but she thought she understood her Hold Mistresses reasons more clearly after speaking with Olgaya. At the time it had seemed to be nothing short of out-and-out betrayal, but Akantha knew that there was wisdom in all of her mother’s actions, and she also knew that her mother wanted what was best for her.

Her bodyguard Persus accompanied her as always. He kept behind her a few steps as they made their way through the corridor toward the Shield Hall, as was protocol. He had been another stabilizing force in Akantha’s life and she had come to value his council when he offered it, which was a rare occurrence.

The standards and banners of the various clans of Argos were displayed in the traditional fashion across the walls and rafters, and even the light from Akantha’s candle was enough to make out their many colors and patterns.

Persus kept his distance, and was careful to avoid looking into the small flame Akantha held in her hands, as doing so would temporarily hinder his vision in the darkness. During the day, torches and sconces lining the room filled it with as much light as was required for the day’s events, but at night the fires were put out to avoid wasting resources.

Akantha eventually found herself standing at the dais where the High Chairs were, and she stopped for a moment to consider what they represented. At that moment, she felt she understood the weight of leadership better than she ever had, even though her entire life had been spent in preparation for ascension to the same rank her mother held. The endless lectures on history, agriculture, engineering and commerce had given her all the knowledge she would need to lead her people in their daily struggles for as many years as she was able. And her experience in the Great Hall of her mother’s people had given her more political savvy she had ever wanted.

She stood there in quiet thought for a few moments before her ears picked up on an unusual murmur of conversation coming from one of the adjoining dining halls. It was very faint, which was why it even registered to her as unusual. It was not entirely uncommon for people to walk about in the middle of the night, but there was rarely a need to keep one’s voice quiet since the sleeping quarters were located far enough away as to not disturb those who rested.

She signaled Persus and he nodded, confirming that he had also heard the conversation, but he shrugged his shoulders as if to say he didn’t know who it was or what they were talking about.

Akantha quietly unslipped her feet from the sandals she wore so as not to make as much noise and doused the candle with a quick puff of air. She then padded toward the dining hall until she could see a flicker of candlelight coming from within. Akantha was almost immediately certain she recognized the slightly cracking voice of the old advisor Nazoraios. She continued approaching until she was also able to recognize the voice of Uncle Nykator.

“My Lord has ever demonstrated the utmost wisdom and cunning, both on the battlefield and in the Great Hall,” came the voice of Nazoraios, and his sycophantic platitudes were almost enough to make Akantha snort out loud, but she reined in her impulse to do so.

“Your simpering may have a place in public, Nazoraios,” said Nykator condescendingly. “But I know what I’ve done as well as what I have yet to do, and the self-serving words of an old man are not why I agreed to meet you here. Be quick with your offering, lest I lose all patience with you.”

“Forgive me, Lord,” Nazoraios said after a short pause, “It was not my intention to offend and as always I will do my utmost to avoid wasting your time. To be blunt I have asked you here, in secret, because I have seen a peculiar star this night, and I believe its meaning cannot be misinterpreted,” the old man continued.

“You brought me from my bedchambers to talk of stars?” Uncle Nykator began coldly. “Old man, you have proven a useful resource in the past, but in recent months I find your council to be increasingly less valuable. Are you so desperate to maintain your position at court that you would speak to me of prophecies scrawled a thousand years ago in the entrails of diseased livestock?” he continued, his hissing voice accompanied by the sound of a small blade being unsheathed.

“I am neither sick nor feeble,” Nazoraios said sharply, “my name is listed on the battle roster and I can still carry a blade into battle. In my younger days I served in the front lines and earned my honors through combat with the enemy! To draw a blade on an unarmed man sworn to your cause-”

There was the sound of a scuffle and a muffled thump, followed by a muffled cry.

“Your days of renown are not only gone and but long gone,” Nykator said coldly, “say something that holds my interest, or I stop holding myself back and cut your meandering tongue out of your lying mouth!”

“My Lord, you may of course do with me as you see fit,” Nazoraios quickly replied, his voice now a dry croak, which suggested that Nykator had a tight grip his throat. “My life has been sworn to yours for longer than even I can recall, and if its best purpose is for you to snuff out my life spark to satisfy honor, then just put a blade in my hand and we can settle this like men,” he said stiffly, his next words came out in a rush, “however and for the moment I would ask that you hear out the ramblings of this old warrior one last time before you strike the final blow that sends me to my grave.”

There was a silent pause, and for a moment Akantha was tempted to get close enough to actually see the scene, but caution won out and she remained quiet and still.

“Out with it then, advisor,” Nykator growled.

Nazoraios made a slight choking sound as he caught his breath, but quickly continued. “The star I have seen is the same one that has been reported at various times in our history. It moves sluggishly against the natural path of the falling stars, and it burns with a green light.” Nazoraios paused, took a deep breath and continued in a quieter voice. “Not only did its course and color demand attention, but it clearly slowed as it approached the ground in the direction of the western farmland. In fact, I believe it fully stopped just before the foot of the mountain which buttresses that edge of our territory.”

Nykator breathed in, a deep hissing sound. The conversation paused for several seconds, and Akantha’s mind raced with the meaning of what Nazoraios said.

“Is there any doubt?” Nykator asked evenly. “Be careful with your next words, Nazoraios. They will decide much of your future.”

“There can be no doubt, my Lord,” Nazoraios quickly replied. “The Sky Demons have returned.”

Akantha felt a lump in her throat. ‘Sky Demons?’ she thought. She had heard stories of them when she was a little girl, but had come to believe they were nothing more than stories or fanciful tales meant to give people boundaries in their lives. If they were real, and if they truly were here, then it would give every soothsayer and self-professed prophet ample excuse to declare these days to be the end times, when all people would be returned to the Stars of Men.

“Name of Men,” Nykator cursed. “How long ago did you last see the star?”

“At first I thought it would pass over the mountain and out of our lands, but I am certain that it came to rest on our side of the pass no more than one hour ago. I only delayed my informing you because of the hour, and I did not want others to learn of this event before you could compose your response,” Nazoraios said stiffly.

“How many others can know of this?” Nykator demanded, his voice rising above a whisper for the first time.

“The watchmen of our signal towers might have seen it, but we cannot be certain,” Nazoraios said after a moment of reflection. “The farmers at the mountain’s base will have seen it, and most certainly have dispatched their emissaries already in search of help. At this time of year, they could arrive at our steps within two days if the weather holds. It would be three days if a storm comes in and the rivers run over.”

Akantha remembered reading about two occasions in the last two hundred years of recorded history when it had been reported that Sky Demons came to the world. The more recent event was widely believed to have been part of an elaborate hoax orchestrated by the rival state of Lyconesia, as they used the sighting of a strange falling star as an opportunity to burn several farm holds and a season’s worth of grain production. The stories spread far and wide, and before anyone could examine the evidence, it seemed the entire world believed it was genuine.

The older event was less well-known. Riders had arrived at the spot where the demons had supposedly made their way into the world, and had found nothing at all. There were no trees, no crops, no buildings and no life of any kind anywhere in the farm hold, when there should have been fields full of newly planted crops and dozens of people, along with their livestock. The written record indicated that the war band dispatched to deal with the threat had found no sign of fire, or any other telltale signs of how everything and everyone had been removed. The leader of the expedition wrote ‘It was as if the sky had opened its maw and swallowed everything which interested it, leaving behind nothing but broken dirt.’ That particular passage had stood out in Akantha’s memory, as it was generally believed to have been the origin of the name her people had given to this phenomenon.

“So if we sent a team now, it would be at least two days before they arrived,” said Nykator slowly. “If we wait for their emissaries to arrive before sending a party, it doubles the delay before our warriors could respond to a minimum of four days. It could be as long as seven days with poor weather, and if there is enough fear to cause extra deliberation at court over the notion of battling nightmares from children’s tales a response might take even longer.”

Nazoraios paused before replying. “Surely my Lord wishes to deal with the threat expediently,” Nazoraios said evenly. “If word were to spread, it could cause months or even years of unrest among the populace if the doomsday seers and prognosticators are allowed to spin their webs of lies and deceit.”

Nykator snorted. “No, we wouldn’t want any old fools running about spinning lies and causing unrest, now would we?” he said derisively. “If this is a real threat and the end times have indeed arrived, there is no need to rush off foolishly to face them. If the Sky Demons are actually the harbingers of the prophesied ending, then a handful of warriors exhausted from a forced march will not be enough to stop their incursion.” He paused for a moment, then continued, “If, on the other hand, this is not the beginning of the end of things, then causing public alarm and panic will serve no one but our very real and very dangerous enemies like the Lyconese.”

“I would caution my Lord against dismissing this threat,” Nazoraios warned. “If there is even a chance that the Sky Demons have returned, then we must prevent word of their arrival from spreading!” The old man’s voice croaked more loudly than it had previously, as he obviously pleaded with his Lord to heed his warning.

“I believe in the threats I can see, and those I can fight,” scoffed Nykator. “What is the sense in worrying about demons and faeries? If they appear on the field of battle, I will crush them as I have crushed all who oppose me. If they do not, then I have more pressing matters to attend.”

“So my Lord will await the arrival of the emissaries, then?” Nazoraios asked with defeat in his voice.

“Yes, old man. We will await the arrival of the emissaries before composing our response” replied Nykator in a threatening tone. “Perhaps your eyes have aged more poorly than the rest of your body, and rather than leading my men in the glorious slaughter of an invading demon army, I will have to content myself with the public execution of one hysterical would be soothsayer instead.”

Akantha heard the footsteps of her uncle as he exited the dining hall, his impromptu meeting apparently concluded, and she made her way quickly to cross the Great Hall as quietly as possible. Persus followed, and they made their way to her chambers as quickly as they could without drawing attention.

This could be the answer she had been looking for.

The Deposed King

Snippet 2

Chapter: The Bonds of Friendship

Akantha threw open the door to her chambers and marched into the room. Olgaya was only two steps behind, and she closed the door much more gently than it had been opened, while Persus assumed his standard post out in the hallway.

“Am I so low!?” Akantha shouted at no one in particular. She grabbed a nearby clay pot and hurled it against the wall, finding great satisfaction in the sound it made when it struck the wall, as well as the sound of the pieces scattering across the stone floor of her chamber. “Everyone seems to know what is best for my life except for me!

“My lady,” began Olgaya patiently, but Akantha cut her off.

“Don’t start, Olga,” Akantha snapped, rounding to face Olgaya. She was obviously beyond reason. Her eyes were as red as her cheeks, and if there were a pot of water on her head, it would likely be at a brisk boil by now. “I don’t need another person telling me what to do, or how to be!”

“You know I don’t judge your thoughts, my lady,” Olgaya said calmly. “It’s not my place to do so and even if it were, I wouldn’t.” Olgaya’s features were as calm as the surface of a summer lake, but her eyes were as hard as a thousand year old glacier.

Akantha reached for another pot to hurl, but paused before her fingers touched it’s clay surface. Her eyes narrowed and she turned slowly to Olgaya. “So you would not judge my thoughts, but rather my actions? Is that what you’re saying, Olga?” Akantha could barely control her voice, she was so outraged.

Olgaya’s eyes locked with Akantha’s and she held her gaze for a moment before tilting her head in acknowledgment. “As I have always known, my lady is wise,” Olgaya said softly.

Akantha’s heart had slowed only slightly, but thoughts of further pottery deconstruction had left her head. “Go on then, Olga. How do you find my actions wanting? Please, I invite your learned judgment,” she spat as venomously as she could.

Olgaya was unfazed, and began to slowly walk into the room past Akantha, toward the simple bench next to the window. Akantha remained exactly where she had been, furious at the thought of her best friend failing to offer any kind of solace in this, one of her most difficult moments.

“My lady has known for years that this day would come. Your mother has supported you at every turn in the past and she was right to do so, just like she is right today. It is time for you to take your place among the Hold Mistresses and establish your own claim on these lands.” She sat down on the wooden bench before continuing, “You cannot do that without a capable Protector,” Olgaya said coolly. “The World of Men is not a kind or forgiving place, and even with the best warriors and the most capable leadership, most Citadels fail to survive their first decade.”

“You think I need you to tell me that, Olga?” Akantha interrupted. “Really, I had expected more of your proffered wisdom than this,” she spat.

Olgaya continued in the same calm tone with which she had begun. “Your sisters-“

“Half-sisters,” Akantha corrected abruptly.

Olgaya cocked her head for a moment. “What do you mean by that?”

Akantha opened her mouth to say something, but stopped. Her shoulders slumped a little and she turned to the bench on which Olgaya was sitting. “I don’t know, Olga. They’re my sisters, even if Hypatios Nykator is their father.” She sighed and began walking toward the window. “I’m sorry, I shouldn’t have insulted you just now,” she apologized before sitting down on the end of the bench opposite from her friend.

Olgaya smiled, and Akantha found herself once again jealous of her best friend’s appearance. The freckles which covered Olgaya’s face, the curly dark red hair which seemed to be always bouncing, and her not particularly striking features combined to present a very plain, simple looking girl of average height and build. But appearances were deceiving, as Olgaya was stronger than average and possessed tremendous reflexes which Akantha had also envied since she was a young girl.

Akantha, on the other hand, had straight blonde hair, blue eyes and skin that looked as white as Stone Rhino tusk under the winter sun. She was taller than average, and her frame was more than proportional for her height. But Akantha would never be confused with a man, which was also a burden at times. It seemed that any proper-fitting clothing accentuated features she sometimes wished she could hide, prompting cowardly whispers about her future child-bearing prospects. She hated the attention her appearance often brought, but she knew that such attention was also at least in part due to her station in Argos’ society.

But being judged on her appearance, and being told how she ought to fit into society had always struck a rebellious bone somewhere deep within her. She knew that she was capable, and she knew the responsibilities she was destined to bear. Akantha didn’t recoil from those responsibilities in the least; in fact, they were the only good thing about being born into the life her mother had given her. She couldn’t wait for the opportunity to take her place among the leaders of the world and prove herself to be just as capable as her ancestors.

“It’s all right, my lady,” Olgaya replied, still wearing her sweet smile. “This has been a stressful day, and from the look of things tomorrow’s not going to be any easier.”

Akantha nodded her head and forced a laugh. “No, I don’t think it will be.” She took a deep breath and let it out slowly as she looked out the window, seeing the Argos Citadel in all its splendor.

Every rival Hold Mistress was envious of Argos for its geographic location, which provided consistent water for the surrounding farmland, as well as a strong defensible position at every possible approach.

The terrain was conducive to growing grains in the summer, and there were even some grasses which managed to survive deep into the winter, allowing Argos to maintain a much larger quantity of livestock than her neighbors, making all forms of industry and agriculture more productive than they might otherwise be.

Argos had seen her share of wars in the past, but under the rule of Polymnia Zosime and the protection of Hypatios Nykator, no conflict had ever really threatened the safety of the Hold. The people were strong and hard workers, applying themselves even more diligently to their daily labors as a result of the high degree of security afforded them by their leadership.

And that was what House Zosime owed her people: strong leadership and sage guidance. Without Zosime’s rule, Argos’ enemies would descend upon her like a plague and destroy everything the Argosians had worked so hard to achieve.

“Why should I have to choose from among Nykator’s men? It’s not fair!” Akantha blurted before thinking. She really wished she could gain better control of her tongue at times.

Olgaya nodded, sympathy crossing over her features for a moment. “You’re right, it’s not fair.”

“Then why?!” Akantha continued, allowing the impulse to smash the glass window with her fist to pass harmlessly into and out of her mind.

“Because it is tradition,” Olgaya said simply. “Because it is what the people need from you.”

“The people need for me to accept one of those sycophantic, self-serving animals as my most trusted companion and ally?” Akantha said sharply, but she took a breath to calm herself before she got too hot under the collar. “What are you saying, Olga? I am sure I don’t yet have your full meaning.”

Olgaya smiled again, this time with a flicker of fire in her eyes. “The people need for you to be strong, and to make the best choice you can, given the circumstances. Life is not about doing what is best; it is about doing the best you can with what you have.”

“So you’re saying I should allow Uncle Nykator to choose my Protector for me?” Akantha snapped.

“No, my lady. I am saying that if you want to be the leader your people need you to be, you must do the best you can with what is available to you,” Olgaya reiterated smoothly. “And you must let the people see you do so.”

Akantha thought about this for a moment before clenching her fist and beating it gently against the window sill. “Am I nothing more than a piece in a game, or prey for one of those self-absorbed men who fancies himself a hunter closing in for the kill?” Her teeth were gritted, but she was losing the fire she had started with.

Olgaya found Akantha’s gaze and held it for awhile before quirking her lips. “A piece in a game, most certainly. But…” the freckle-faced lady in waiting paused and then giggled.

“But what?” Akantha asked shortly, her patience wearing thin.

“Akantha…you’re the hunter,” said her closest friend in the world.

The Deposed King

A snippet - Prequel Novella

This is a snippet subject to change and revision but for all of you out there who are interested in a free snippet here you go!

.

Chapter: Unwanted Advances

The Great Hall of Argos was bustling with activity. Hundreds of people all milling about, separated out into their little packs arranged by geographic, social, or economic patterns.

Akantha had grown up in this hall, so spotting who was who had become second nature to her by now. There were the local free warrior bands hoping to curry favor with her family, some from as far away as Lyconesia. There were the usual local figures, those families whose interests were so directly tied to the state of the Great Hall and its occupants that their entire livelihood depended on being present at events like these, so they could offer some appropriately self-serving praise at the opportune moment. There was even the clan of grain farmers from the western edge of her mother’s Hold, who had recently found favor with one of Uncle Nykator’s lieutenants. Men only knows what bargain they had struck, since none of Nykator’s men were the most honorable of people.

She had to work hard to keep from reflexively spitting at the thought of Uncle Hypatios Nykator’s hand-picked group of cronies. She had never seen such a pompous group of self-important peacocks assembled in one place. And not only that, she had never found herself in such close proximity to their stink!

Still, Uncle Nykator was for all his faults, a competent Protector. No, if she was being honest with herself, Hypatios Nykator was a nearly legendary figure in Argos. He hadn’t lost a single campaign during his time as an independent Warlord, he had unified the Tegean Host for the first time in a century, and his tenure as the Protector of Argos had been the most productive period in its history. His feats in personal combat were also unparalleled. Again, if she was being honest with herself, he was quite the catch for her mother.

Of course, he was still just a Protector for Akantha’s mother, Polymnia Sapphira Zosime. And house Zosime had produced Argos’ Hold Mistresses for several generations. Protectors come and go, but Hold Mistresses endure. Since the dawn of Men, it had been thus, and it was the only way her people had ever known.

Akantha was seated on a plain stool one step below the dais from her mother’s High Chair, as was appropriate for the First Daughter of a Hold Mistress. The High Chairs were beautiful, truly wonders to behold, having taken an entire family of craftsmen fifty years to complete. The dark red wood was the hardest in the world, and if fashioned into a proper weapon, was capable of shattering even the hardest of stone. So naturally, it had taken awhile to work all of the intricate inlays and characters into the frames of the magnificent pieces.

Akantha’s stool, on the other hand, was plain. Four legs under a plain round section of tree trunk, with cross-braces for extra support. There was no polish, no cushion and no back upon which to lean while sitting. No intricate patterns engraved in the body of it, and even the wood used to construct it was common, good for little but fueling the fire to stave off a particularly cold winter.

And there was the message. A Hold Mistress is a ruler, a leader of humanity whose wisdom and foresight were all that stood between life and death in this harsh world. As such, she is deserving of splendid appointments, and the deepest of reverence. Without her, the world as they knew it would shatter, and the ravenous beasts of the wild (and even darker monsters) would descend upon their people and devour them whole.

A First Daughter, on the other hand, is a common thing. All families strive to produce strong daughters. There is nothing special about a woman who has yet to accomplish anything significant in her life. Even the bearing of young warriors is an honor befitting proper station in her society. But to be a young woman, even the First Daughter of a prominent Hold Mistress, was to be a common and uninteresting thing.

‘No,’ Akantha thought to herself, ‘that’s not true. A First Daughter inspires all kinds of interest: the unwanted kind.” She flicked her eyes over to the left side of the High Chair dais opposite her position, and had to once again repress the urge to spit.

Assembled there was the latest cadre of Uncle Nykator’s top men, each of them prancing about like ungelded stallions during rutting season, which is what they thought this was. Figuratively, at least.

First there was Kallistos, the strutting, preening little rooster who believed himself to be the absolute pinnacle of manhood; and he expected to be treated as such by any woman he deemed fit to grace with his magnificent presence. She failed to stifle a laugh as her eyes ran up and down his overly stylized armor, resplendent with polished metals and brightly colored feathers, skins and furs. He was attractive, that much was without question, and his skill with words was truly without peer among the ranks of Argos’ men. But the man’s narcissism was unbearable, even for the length of a single conversation.

Second was Kapaneus, whose presence sent a slight chill down Akantha’s spine. If there was a true successor to Uncle Nykator among his men, it was Kapaneus. He was ruthless, blunt and unyielding. In other words, he was the perfect warrior. His ego was overly large, but who could argue with his accomplishments? Uncle Nykator had all but spoon-fed him each and every step of his career, so it should come as no surprise to find them so strikingly similar. Still, his regard for women was not much better than a wild animal’s, and he was therefore unfit to serve as Protector, in Akantha’s estimation.

The third man to usually stand at Uncle’s side, Nikomedes, was strangely absent. Nikomedes was not quite the warrior as Kapaneus, neither was he the prancing, silver-tongued serpent like Kallistos. Nikomedes, for all his abilities as a warrior (and they were significant) was never able to truly shine in the presence of these other men. True, it might have been due to the fact that Nikomedes had never been the most cunning of men, in fact that was one of the biggest reasons Akantha had not accepted his advances. But he was an honorable man. He was the only man among Uncle’s close circle who had even the barest shred of respect for tradition and honor. The other members of Uncle Nykator’s group merely used such concepts to advance their own agendas, a prime example being this entire charade of ‘presenting’ these men as viable candidates to the Hold Mistresses First Daughter, Akantha, who was the only daughter old enough to become a Hold Mistress in her own right.

Akantha had already spurned each of these suitors in turn, but Uncle had insisted upon this farce of a presentation, citing some ancient custom whereby a reigning Protector of a Citadel could initiate such a proceeding in the interest of providing the daughters of the Hold Mistress with ‘first pick’ of recently honored warriors.

She had never heard of such an arcane law ever being invoked, but such things had become more commonplace in recent years, coinciding with the presence of yet another man in Uncle Nykator’s inner circle.

Her eyes narrowed as they fell upon what she believed to be one of the roots, if not the only root cause of this entire farce. The stiff, wizened form of Nazoraios, who was older than any man deserved to be, was never far from Nykator’s side. It was especially fitting that at the very moment Akantha’s eyes had found him, he was whispering something into her Uncle’s ear. While seeing Kapaneus could make her shiver, seeing Nazoraios made her blood boil.

A man had one purpose, and one purpose only: to protect those for whom he was responsible. As such, no man worth his weight in Stone Rhino hide would wish to see old age claim his life when he could spend it on the battlefield protecting those who rely upon him. Nazoraios was far older than any man she had ever seen, and was probably unfit to serve on the field of war. His mere existence should have been enough to offend every person present.

But his wisdom was beyond question. Not only was he the most literate man in Argos when it came to matters of lore and tradition, but it was whispered that he had the Third Eye; an ability to see into the future and predict events. This was widely held to be at least part of the reason for Hypatios Nykator’s successes, but none dared speak such thoughts within earshot of any of her Uncle’s men.

Akantha heard a familiar giggle to her right, from the bottom of the steps which led up to the dais. She casually glanced over and saw a round, freckled face with curly red hair framing her plain features. It was the familiar face of her favored lady in waiting, Olgaya, who had been Akantha’s closest friend since childhood. Akantha had always treasured their bond, and she only hoped that Olgaya felt the same.

Olgaya had clearly caught Akantha appraising the men surrounding Uncle Nykator, and had chosen to make light of the situation. Akantha scolded her with her eyes, but secretly she knew that she needed her best friend’s levity in moments exactly like these. The life of a First Daughter to the Hold Mistress was stressful, and Akantha often had difficulty controlling her emotions at times when she needed to present a calm, considered manner. Olgaya had always helped her maintain a kind of balance, and she had come to rely upon her in difficult times.

Next to Olgaya was Persus, the bodyguard who had been assigned to her since she was a child. He was a large man, soft-spoken but strong. He was a good soldier, and another person Akantha had come to rely upon during her young life for advice and guidance, especially when it came to the affairs of men. He was not quite a father figure, more like an uncle – one that she actually liked. He never strayed from her side, and she rarely saw him out of his Stone Rhino armor. It was people like these that made the rigors of her life more bearable.

Her thoughts of friendship were rudely interrupted by her Uncle’s booming voice.

“Argosians! I believe it is time to conduct the business of the day,” Nykator declared in his imperious tone.

The milling groups seemed to flow like water down a hill toward the main dais where Akantha, her mother, and Nykator’s troupe were assembled.

After a short pause, Uncle Nykator continued. “We are assembled here from the distant corners of the Hold to celebrate the recent victories of our bravest warriors.” He paused momentarily to gesture toward his ‘finest’ men, who all looked sufficiently pleased with themselves. “On the morn of our victory two weeks ago, a festival erupted in the streets of the Citadel that will conclude tomorrow night with the announcement of the Land Bride, Lady Adonia Akantha Zosime’s choice for her Protector!”

A round of applause erupted from within the assembled host of Argos’ leading citizens.

Akantha could barely contain her reaction. She could feel her face turning red at this latest bit of heavy-handedness by her Uncle, trying to back her into a corner by pressuring her into compliance with his wishes. She took a deep breath and tried her best to regain composure before all eyes fell upon her.

But Nykator had apparently rehearsed this, as he promptly continued after the appropriate period of applause. “We have assembled the very finest suitors from the length and breadth of the Hold in an effort to assist our dearest First Daughter in her choice. Never has there been a finer assortment of capable warriors than those you see before you. Except, of course, the last time I was free to take up the role of Protector,” Hyopatios Nykator added with a smug smirk.

The sycophantic chuckles at this poorly-conceived joke were too much for Akantha to bear. She stood abruptly, making a display of looking for someone but not finding them. “I beg your pardon Uncle, but I have not seen Nikomedes here. If, as you say, this collection is the finest warriors in the land, then I must ask where he is. Were I to have agreed to the timing of such an important announcement, I most certainly would have insisted on the presence of every noteworthy warrior from Argos.”

The buzz died down almost instantly as everyone recognized the challenge for what it was, which was almost enough to unnerve Akantha, but she was determined not to back down.

Nykator’s head turned slowly to Akantha, and even though he still wore a false smile, his eyes narrowed and he locked gazes with her. “Why, Lady Adonia, I had thought that since you were so interested in young Nikomedes, that you would have perhaps heard that he left last month on a quest of Acclaim, in an effort to win your hand through a gesture of action.”

Akantha’s throat tightened. She had not heard anything of the sort, since obviously she had not held any real measure of interest in Nikomedes until this particular moment, when his absence could be used to at the very least delay events. Nevertheless, she refused to allow this hiccup to slow her.

“A quest of Acclaim? Now that, at the very least, would be worthy of consideration. Remind me, Uncle; what is his quarry? If he believes it would be sufficient to win my favor, it must be a truly remarkable quest,” Akantha said in her most formal tone, trying hard to keep overt defiance out of her voice.

Nykator’s eyes remained narrowed for a second, then he seemed to realize something and his expression changed slightly. “Dearest daughter-mine, like so many others who have pursued you in the past, Nikomedes felt you were as cold as mountain ice toward his advances. So, he set out to retrieve the sword of King Lykurgos, lost these past three centuries. It is said,” he continued, raising his voice and gesturing toward the assembled crowd in deliberate fashion, “that the fires of the mountain gave birth to the Dark Swords of Power, and since there is only one such blade unaccounted for, he has made it his life’s goal to retrieve it in the hopes that the fires of the mountain might yet live on in the blade. He hopes it might thaw your frozen heart.” Nykator smirked triumphantly.

‘A Dark Sword of Power?’ Akantha thought, momentarily taken aback. It had been many decades since the discovery of the last such blade, and the chance to become Sword Bearer to a Protector who could boast possession of such a potent artifact would indeed pique her interest. It wouldn’t be enough on its own, but it would most certainly be enough to tip the balance if other things were close to equal. ‘Nikomedes might be cleverer than I thought,’ Akantha mused silently.

“The sword of King Lykurgos,” she said slowly, trying desperately to find a way to parlay this into an advantage. “And you say he left last month? That is hardly enough time for him to complete such an epic task. The discovery of the last Dark Sword of Power was reputed to have taken fifteen years from the day those noble warriors set out to reclaim it.”

“Are you saying you would save yourself for Nikomedes for fifteen years, Adonia?” Nykator interrupted. “That would hardly do for the First Daughter of Argos, or her people.” His sneer was so thinly veiled that Akantha felt her face flushing yet again. She made to snap a reply but was cut off unexpectedly.

“You are correct, Hypatios,” came the smooth voice of Akantha’s mother, Polymnia Sapphira Zosime. Akantha could hardly believe her ears; her own mother was siding with Uncle Nykator at a time like this! She turned to her Hold Mistress, feeling steam coming out of her ears, but her mother continued steadily.

“It would not do for the First Daughter of Argos, Land Bride of Messene and scion of House Zosime to leave her twentieth year without having accepted a Sword from a worthy Protector.” Polymnia’s face was perfectly composed, as though she were reading a report on annual grain production from the outlying provinces, rather than discussing the fate of her eldest daughter.

Akantha could not believe what she was hearing. Was she no more than a piece of meat to be bartered away in a timely fashion, lest she should spoil at market? She had always believed her mother understood her reasons for resisting earlier advances by warriors like these, but now she wasn’t sure.

Polymnia continued calmly, “My Protector, Hypatios Nykator, has indeed assembled a fine crop of warriors from whom you may choose to become your first Protector. It is time you assume your rightful place among the Hold Mistresses of these lands, that our people may benefit from your wisdom and abilities.”

Akantha seethed at this betrayal. “My mother must understand that I cannot in good conscience make a selection when one of the finest warriors in the land is unavailable,” she said through gritted teeth.

Her mother simply smiled and gave a slow tilt of her head as she made to reply, but she was cut off by Nykator. “It is unfortunate that Nikomedes is not here, but he made his choice,” Nykator said dismissively. “All warriors know the risks associated with an expedition into our harsh wilderness, and he knew it was possible that this would happen while he quests. You bring dishonor on yourself by hiding behind his absence, daughter-mine!” Nykator roared this last rebuke.

Akantha was in a rage by now, and completely unable to control her emotions. Her voice became like a serpent’s as she hissed, “I’m sorry to have disgraced my family in such a manner. Please accept my apology, as well as my promise to not bring further shame with my presence in the Great Hall!”

With that, she turned and stomped out of the hall, followed only by Olgaya and Persus.

The Deposed King

October 1st

Well guys I just wanted to share some info with you.  For the past week I’ve been selling around 90 copies per day for the Gambit and around 50+ average for the Who.

Here are my month end figures.

Admiral Who:

Total Sales - 1019

Daily Sales - 68

Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #1,542 Paid in Kindle Store (See Top 100 Paid in Kindle Store)

#11 in Books > Science Fiction & Fantasy > Science Fiction > Space Opera
#16 in Kindle Store > Kindle eBooks > Fiction > Genre Fiction > Science Fiction > Adventure
#21 in Books > Science Fiction & Fantasy > Science Fiction > Adventure

Admiral’s Gambit:

Total Sales - 1305

Daily Sales - 110

Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #877 Paid in Kindle Store (See Top 100 Paid in Kindle Store)

#6 in Books > Science Fiction & Fantasy > Science Fiction > Space Opera
#11 in Kindle Store > Kindle eBooks > Fiction > Genre Fiction > Science Fiction > Adventure
#14 in Books > Science Fiction & Fantasy > Science Fiction > Adventur

Now the daily sales was the sales for the 30th, not an average.  This is essentially a copy of an e-mail I shared with my brother.

Another bit of info.  Here are the cut and past figures for the past two weeks from amazon.

09/22/2012
Admiral Wh…
Luke Sky W…
B007WQSY44
952
2
950
35%
0.99
N/A
N/A
N/A
28.00


09/22/2012
Admiral’s …
Luke Sky W…
B0099RQCHU
49
0
49
35%
2.99
N/A
N/A
N/A
51.45


09/22/2012
Admiral’s …
Luke Sky W…
B0099RQCHU
335
0
335
70%
3.00
0.83
3.00
0.12
674.55


09/29/2012
Admiral Wh…
Luke Sky W…
B007WQSY44
345
0
345
35%
0.99
N/A
N/A
N/A
120.17


09/29/2012
Admiral’s …
Luke Sky W…
B0099RQCHU
55
0
55
35%
2.99
N/A
N/A
N/A
57.75


09/29/2012
Admiral’s …
Luke Sky W…
B0099RQCHU
540
1
539
70%
2.99
0.81
2.99
0.12
1085.23

Right now we’re working on a Novella we’re busy writing and thinking about launching for free sometime in november.  And come out with another main line book in January.  Also thinking to bump the 1st book to 2.99 when the novella comes out.

Any thoughts?

The Deposed King

Thank you.

The response these last few days has been humbling.  Over 90 sales per day on Admiral’s Gambit and over 50 on Admiral Who?.   I am so very pleased that so very many of you are reading my books.  And not only reading them but from the reviews, enjoying them as well.

Rest assured I am working as fast as I can on book 3 and will do my best to put out a solid product as quickly as possible.

yours,

The Deposed King

Free Promo is Over

Wow just wow guys.   I used my KDP select promo and over the course of 5 days I gave away 2080 free copes of Admiral Who?  I got up there to about #5-8 on free Adventure and was bumming around 200’s to 400’s top free book on amazon.

Pretty amazing.  And the sales for the 2nd book have been holding strong at about 50 sales a day since it came out.  Now who knows how long that’s going to last but regardless its pretty amazing results if I do say so myself.

I hope all those new readers who picked up Admiral Who? like it as much as the rest of us!

thanks guys!

The Deposed King