Rival Gates's Blog, page 81
September 17, 2013
Meet the Characters: Anvar Greenlith
Linvin Grithinshield is the protagonist of “Quest for the Red Sapphire”. In order to go on his quest and have any chance of success, he needs help. The most indispensable person he brings along is his Uncle Anvar Greenlith. Anvar is an elf who is slight in stature even for his breed. His hair is a blend of white and grey and he wears a long beard kept impeccably groomed. His blue eyes are mesmerizing and are impossible to ignore. He became friends with Linvin’s father, Dirk Grithinshield in Fraylic, the capitol of the Kingdom of Sartan. Anvar had been somewhat of an outcast. The Greenlith family looked harshly upon him for embracing Human culture and most of the humans sneered at him as just another elf. Dirk did not care about such things. He measured a man by his character instead of his heritage. After becoming best friends, Anvar introduced him to his oldest sister, Jelena, who also sought to escape the mundane life of elven society and had come to Fraylic. Dirk and Jelena fell in love and married. Their only son was Linvin and Anvar was given somewhat of a godfather role in the boy’s life. Even when Linvin was in Valia, Anvar would travel for months to see his nephew. Now his visits were of a more serious nature.
Whenever you think Anvar has no more secrets, he reveals another one to you. He is a man of many stories with the right one always ready. Anvar will answer your questions and leave you with two more. He only reveals what he believes you need to know, when he thinks you need to know it. With some people, that would lead to a lack of trust. But for Linvin, his faith and trust in Anvar (he is the only nephew given the privilege of not calling him Uncle) is unshakable. Linvin is intelligent and knows Anvar is withholding details and facts. He also knows that Anvar is too witty and wise to let any information slip before he intends to divulge it to him. On the other hand, he knows Anvar would protect him with his life. This paradox is frustrating and yet understood by Linvin.
Anvar is a peacemaker. He abhors violence and resorts to it after all diplomatic solutions have been tried. Linvin’s headstrong behavior is clearly frustrating to the old elf. Anvar is constantly in Linvin’s ear trying to teach him patience and understanding. It is a lesson Linvin takes to heart at certain times and at others completely ignores; often to his own detriment. Though Anvar scolds all of his nephews, he expects the most out of Linvin and holds him to a higher standard. For all his pacifism, however, if Linvin is in a bad situation, Anvar is the first person there to have his back. He loves Linvin like a son and feels a sense of responsibility for his safety.
Whenever you think Anvar has no more secrets, he reveals another one to you. He is a man of many stories with the right one always ready. Anvar will answer your questions and leave you with two more. He only reveals what he believes you need to know, when he thinks you need to know it. With some people, that would lead to a lack of trust. But for Linvin, his faith and trust in Anvar (he is the only nephew given the privilege of not calling him Uncle) is unshakable. Linvin is intelligent and knows Anvar is withholding details and facts. He also knows that Anvar is too witty and wise to let any information slip before he intends to divulge it to him. On the other hand, he knows Anvar would protect him with his life. This paradox is frustrating and yet understood by Linvin.
Anvar is a peacemaker. He abhors violence and resorts to it after all diplomatic solutions have been tried. Linvin’s headstrong behavior is clearly frustrating to the old elf. Anvar is constantly in Linvin’s ear trying to teach him patience and understanding. It is a lesson Linvin takes to heart at certain times and at others completely ignores; often to his own detriment. Though Anvar scolds all of his nephews, he expects the most out of Linvin and holds him to a higher standard. For all his pacifism, however, if Linvin is in a bad situation, Anvar is the first person there to have his back. He loves Linvin like a son and feels a sense of responsibility for his safety.
September 15, 2013
Meet the Characters: Linvin Grithinshield
Linvin Grithinshield is the protagonist in “Quest for the Red Sapphire.” He is half elf and half human, having a human father (Dirk Grithinshield) and an elven mother (Jelena Greenlith-Grithinshield) Linvin is an only child of an increasingly affluent family. When he is about 12 years old, his parents find out something that changes his life forever. His father will not explain the situation other than to say that Linvin will someday be in a position to make a positive difference for those who are most in need of help. In order to be ready for that day, however, Linvin must be sent away to the far off Kingdom of Valia to be trained by the finest inventor and military mind in the world; Sedemihcra. After training together for six years Sedemihcra finally gives in to Linvin’s plea for practical experience and allows him to enlist in the army as an archer. Linvin has developed into a muscular man of six feet in height and a chiseled physique. He quickly advances to the infantry and then the cavalry. Due to his own abilities and efforts his rank rises quickly and after episodes of great heroism is given the title of general. After a strange twist of fate he becomes Commander of the Combine Valian Forces at only 26. He distinguishes himself and his military mind in many great battles with the Marsh Goblins of the southern swamps. His men, his king and the people love and adore him. Then he is called home unexpectedly and the real intrigue begins.
Linvin can come up with a plan in moments if he takes the time to remember what he was taught. He can come up with an entire strategy when given sufficient time. Yet, for all his strengths and skills Linvin has a fatal flaw. He has a quick temper that can sometimes block out reason. When Linvin thinks things through, they generally work out for him. When he doesn’t take time to think, disaster almost always follows. He is easily offended and grows angry, forcing poor decisions. If he cannot learn to better manage himself, he will never prove himself worthy to possess the Red Sapphire.
Linvin can come up with a plan in moments if he takes the time to remember what he was taught. He can come up with an entire strategy when given sufficient time. Yet, for all his strengths and skills Linvin has a fatal flaw. He has a quick temper that can sometimes block out reason. When Linvin thinks things through, they generally work out for him. When he doesn’t take time to think, disaster almost always follows. He is easily offended and grows angry, forcing poor decisions. If he cannot learn to better manage himself, he will never prove himself worthy to possess the Red Sapphire.
September 14, 2013
The People of Lavacia: Gnomes
By far the fewest in number of the dominant humanoid types in Lavacia are Gnomes. They are so few in numbers and so reclusive that most people of the world have never laid eyes upon one. An average gnome stands about four feet tall and is unintimidating in weight and muscle. Their ability to use magic is unknown but there has never been a documented account of a magician amongst them. Most male gnomes wear a beard though a few prefer to be clean shaven and are often the subject of ridicule in their ranks. One skill of note they possess is the ability to see as well in total darkness in sunlight. That proves useful in their habitat.
Not being particularly effective warriors, gnomes spend their lives practicing stealth and shiftiness. Many turn to thievery or assassinations for a trade. With a general dislike of all other species, gnomes tend to stay with their own kind. They had no taste for war and found a small sanctuary in the Endless Mountains the other races call “The Land of the Gnomes.” The inhabitants, however, refer to it as Letheria. It is a high alpine meadow with a small lake that freezes over for half the year. The gnomes have built an entire city underground with entrances only visible to gnomes. As a result, no one other than gnomes has ever been there. In the spring, wild game of all sorts comes to the meadow to mate. That is the time of the great hunt where the male animals are harvested and preserved to feed the city through the blistering northern winters. The long grasses of the meadow are gathered every year and brewed into a harsh whiskey called Racik. It takes some getting used to but does have a hint of mint in the flavor. They live at least half the year underground, which necessitates the night vision.
Most gnomes are content to live life as they always have. There are those, however, who yearn for more and wish to see just what the world has to offer. They leave Letheria and become outcasts. Newminor in “Quest for the Red Sapphire” is one such gnome. He is an interesting character, indeed.
Not being particularly effective warriors, gnomes spend their lives practicing stealth and shiftiness. Many turn to thievery or assassinations for a trade. With a general dislike of all other species, gnomes tend to stay with their own kind. They had no taste for war and found a small sanctuary in the Endless Mountains the other races call “The Land of the Gnomes.” The inhabitants, however, refer to it as Letheria. It is a high alpine meadow with a small lake that freezes over for half the year. The gnomes have built an entire city underground with entrances only visible to gnomes. As a result, no one other than gnomes has ever been there. In the spring, wild game of all sorts comes to the meadow to mate. That is the time of the great hunt where the male animals are harvested and preserved to feed the city through the blistering northern winters. The long grasses of the meadow are gathered every year and brewed into a harsh whiskey called Racik. It takes some getting used to but does have a hint of mint in the flavor. They live at least half the year underground, which necessitates the night vision.
Most gnomes are content to live life as they always have. There are those, however, who yearn for more and wish to see just what the world has to offer. They leave Letheria and become outcasts. Newminor in “Quest for the Red Sapphire” is one such gnome. He is an interesting character, indeed.
September 13, 2013
The People of Lavacia: Dwarves
The next least populous group in Lavacia are the Dwarves. They are a short, squat and good-natured. An average dwarf stands about four to four and a half feet tall. They weight in excess of 200 pounds at adulthood and carry it well. Their arms are long and muscular while their torso is thick and strong. With their upper body being long, their legs are short and resemble stumps. Due to these facts, dwarves are not fond of running or travelling great distances on foot. They are perfect as miners, farmers and anything where they can use their hands and great strength.
Dwarves are known as craftsman. They are often blacksmiths, weapon smiths and armorers. With elongated lifespans and a rich history of craftsmanship, dwarves make the finest armor and metal weapons in the world. The goods are sought by every nation and are a fast selling section of the Grithinshield Trading Company. Dwarves also manufacture just about everything from jewelry to wagons.
Though never excessive in number, the vast majority of the dwarf population resides in the Dwarven County of Sartan. The southern part of the county is rich in ore for mining while the northern area is perfect for farming. Pockets of dwarves are found in nearly every country where they are generally well accepted but live together in common areas.
A happy dwarf is one with a beer in his hand. They pride themselves on their ancestry of making spirits but are particularly fond of their beer and ale. Drinking contests with them are to be avoided at all cost as they consume beer with every meal and have a high tolerance for its affect. They blend well with humans and do not resent anyone. A hard working but not greedy people, they see no group or race as an enemy and find the notion amusing.
Few dwarves have been found to channel magic. Those of note are of the lesser colors and use it mostly for entertainment purposes. They also give the most freedom to women of any society in Lavacia. Women can hold political offices, work where they with and have all the rights the men have. They also are nearly as strong as their counterparts. It is best not to invoke their wrath!
Dwarves are known as craftsman. They are often blacksmiths, weapon smiths and armorers. With elongated lifespans and a rich history of craftsmanship, dwarves make the finest armor and metal weapons in the world. The goods are sought by every nation and are a fast selling section of the Grithinshield Trading Company. Dwarves also manufacture just about everything from jewelry to wagons.
Though never excessive in number, the vast majority of the dwarf population resides in the Dwarven County of Sartan. The southern part of the county is rich in ore for mining while the northern area is perfect for farming. Pockets of dwarves are found in nearly every country where they are generally well accepted but live together in common areas.
A happy dwarf is one with a beer in his hand. They pride themselves on their ancestry of making spirits but are particularly fond of their beer and ale. Drinking contests with them are to be avoided at all cost as they consume beer with every meal and have a high tolerance for its affect. They blend well with humans and do not resent anyone. A hard working but not greedy people, they see no group or race as an enemy and find the notion amusing.
Few dwarves have been found to channel magic. Those of note are of the lesser colors and use it mostly for entertainment purposes. They also give the most freedom to women of any society in Lavacia. Women can hold political offices, work where they with and have all the rights the men have. They also are nearly as strong as their counterparts. It is best not to invoke their wrath!
September 11, 2013
The People of Lavacia: Elves
My analysis of the people of Lavacia in descending numerical order takes us to Elves. Throughout fantasy writing elves are depicted anywhere from absurdly tall to remarkably short. Elves in my world average slightly less than five feet tall with slender builds and swarthy skin. There are rare occasions like the character Bander in “Quest for the Red Sapphire” that are brawny and slightly taller but they are generally not considered intimidating folk. They have a natural love of trees and nature. They tend to consort almost exclusively with their own species except for rare instances like the town of Missandor where some humans live among the elves and everyone gets along well. In general, elves dislike and distrust humans. They do not like anything about humans. They despise their weapons (elves use bows and loathe swords), their large cities, their arrogance, their size and their culture in general. Elves that openly are friendly with humans are considered traitors by hardliners (see the Greenliths).
Once there were as many elves as humans in the world. Then a cataclysmic event happened that irrevocably changed the balance of power forever (That will be revealed in Sapphire Crucible). Another reason for the low numbers of elves (mostly residing in the Kingdom of Sartan) is the fact that females rarely produce more than two offspring in their lifetime. When the disparity in birthrate is averaged against humans over the millennia the shortfall becomes clear.
In short, elves are isolationist in nature and are well satisfied in general to live simple lives in small villages with little thought of power or war.
Once there were as many elves as humans in the world. Then a cataclysmic event happened that irrevocably changed the balance of power forever (That will be revealed in Sapphire Crucible). Another reason for the low numbers of elves (mostly residing in the Kingdom of Sartan) is the fact that females rarely produce more than two offspring in their lifetime. When the disparity in birthrate is averaged against humans over the millennia the shortfall becomes clear.
In short, elves are isolationist in nature and are well satisfied in general to live simple lives in small villages with little thought of power or war.
September 10, 2013
The People of Lavacia: Humans
In the world of Lavacia, goblins make up more of the population than all of the other dominant races combined. This is due to the abundance of offspring and their rapid growth as stated in my last blog. Humans are the second most populous. They are the dominant species in every country in the land except Sartan where they are equals with elves and dwarves. Humans here are no different than humans in our world except a select few are born with the ability to channel magic. (That is a topic for future blogs) Their lifespans are no longer than those on earth and they are similar in all other ways, both good and bad. It is no coincidence that they formed the nations making up the map of Lavacia. Humans are the one breed that thinks of themselves in a national sense rather than a racial position. For example, elves will identify themselves as such and form bonds with other elves based on their race. Humans will see themselves as Sartanians, or Valians and so forth. They identify with their country of origin. When humans are not busy fighting goblins, they find it compulsory to fight one another. Unlike the Goblin Wars, they are not fighting for existence but rather, land and wealth. Nations go to war instead of races. It is that division that is their greatest weakness but also propels them to their greatest accomplishments.
With Valia and Rador on the eastern coast of the Great Continent, they became sea explorers and found new lands to the east across the waves. Trade of finished goods to the native people for raw materials (particularly gold) has been prosperous for both sides. They, like many of the nations have taken their focus off the looming goblin menace and focused on profit. Like I said, they are no different than men in our world
With Valia and Rador on the eastern coast of the Great Continent, they became sea explorers and found new lands to the east across the waves. Trade of finished goods to the native people for raw materials (particularly gold) has been prosperous for both sides. They, like many of the nations have taken their focus off the looming goblin menace and focused on profit. Like I said, they are no different than men in our world
September 9, 2013
The People of Lavacia: Goblins
In my world of Lavacia there are serveral species that dominate the Great Continent. Their existence goes back to the creation of the world; but that is the topic for an entire book. In order from must to least they are goblins, humans, elves, dwarves and gnomes. Today I will focus on golbins. They are unique in several different ways. To begin with, their bodies run on a 48 hour clock. Therefore, they have greater endurance than their counterparts but must rest for a longer period of time afterward. For example, an army of goblins could march an entire day and into the next. Then, however, they would need 2/3rds of a day to recooperate. Goblins frequently produce litters needing 3 months of gestation. The average litter is 6-8 offspring. They reach full maturity in five years but have a shorter lifespan than the other people of the world. They are realatively short, rarely exceeding 5 feet but weigh between 250 and 300 pounds. In short, they are perfect soldiers. They have one reason for existing. They wish to smite all the other races and rule Lavacia. Throughout the uncharted history of the world, they have grown so numerous many times that they overwhelmed their opponents and cast the world into a Dark Age. During these Dark Ages civilization would be reduced to the most common, base existence. In each case the Dark Ages would end when the other people of Lavacia pulled together and pushed back the goblin menace. Most of the time the Master of the Red Sapphire would lead the united people. Though the goblins would be defeated, they could never be completely annihilated due to their numbers and ability to repopulate. Quest for the Red Sapphire takes place in one of the Renaissance Ages between Dark Ages. Though the goblins are checked, they constantly endeavour to reclaim the lands they feel belong to them.
September 8, 2013
The Realm of the Ice Giants
The day during the Creation of Lavacia just after the manufacturing of the Lava Giants saw the creation of the Ice Giants. They were made much like their brethren. The Ice Giants were made immortal and impervious to magic. They too sought to conquer the world. However, they found when they left their frozen homeland at the northern most part of the continent, they became weaker and were forced to retreat. One is actually introduced briefly in the the follow-up to Quest for the Red Sapphire called Sapphire Crucible. They are capable of forming ice javelins instantly from the humidity in the air and hurling them with deadly accuracy. Over the years they have become lathargic and obsessed with treasure. They force the Mandrean Empire to pay them tribute just to leave their lands in peace. Even with the payment, the frozen beasts will raid Mandrean towns on occation for sport. Though seemingly trapped in their fridged environment, they still dream of one day ruling the world and especially of finding a way to defeat the Lava Giants in the extreme south.
September 7, 2013
The Realm of the Lava Giants
In "quest for the Red Sapphire" I have created a world called Lavacia. The story takes place on the Great Continent. No one knows how far to the south the continent extends because after traveling far enough you reach the Realm of The Laza Giants. They are not good or evil. They are immortals who were militant at the beginging of the world. Then they found they were weak outside of their realm, which is dominated by a landscape of active volcanos of every type. So they settled into a routine in their home. Outsides are either incapable of existing in the environmant of ash, soot and lava or else are dealt with most harshly. They are not mentioned in the book because quite honestly, the journey takes the characters north instead of south. At some point in the series I do intend to introduce them and their invincable lava blades. So long as a Laza giant holds it, the blade is pure liquid rock. Once the giant releases it, however, it immediately returns to stone and shatters under its own weight. I sence a great fight scene in the future! Who am I kidding, it is already planned. The question is, how do you fight something that can not be destroyed and is impervious to magic? It will be cool!
September 6, 2013
Seeing Through Another's Glasses
Have you ever tried on someone else's prescription glasses and looked around? The world looks pretty different than you normaly see it, doesn't it? I recently received an email from someone who read my book, "Quest for the Red Sapphire." I was given a glowing review, which let's face it, is always nice to hear. What surprised me was that the individual's take on many elements of the story was different than I had seen it. Things I found crucial were noticed but the reader focused on features I considered afterthoughts. That is the beauty of writing and reading. Two people can read the exact same book or write on the exact same topic and have totally different points of view. It's just like wearing someone else's glasses. Things look different...but that's not so bad.
