News & Announcements:

First of all, Merry Christmas! I hope your holiday is full of warmth and love!

I've come down with a cold, and on top of that, I've been extra achy. I really don't know what brought on the recent pain, but I've been staying away from the keyboard as much as possible, which means I don't have much of a word count for the week.

But I've shared a character journal (from Samandriel this time) and an excerpt, plus a new Spotify playlist for the holidays, a video series (also for the holidays), and a new (to me) book I've just started to read.

Happy reading!

Lois


Writing/Goals Progress:

Do to a cold and extra pain, I didn't get much of a word count this week. I won't get much written next week either, as I'm taking off until the 26th so I can focus on the coming holiday. Good thing I gave myself two months to write this novel, huh?

Fallen: Out of Time

Day 14: 0 | 15,607
Day 15: 0 | 15,607
Day 16: 0 | 15,607
Day 17: 0 | 15,607
Day 18: 0 | 15,607
Day 19: 989 | 16,596
Day 20: 0 | 16,596
Weekly Total: 989


Character Journal Entry: Samandriel - Grief & Guilt:

Of all the people who could have been killed, why Krishan? His skills were deadly, but he only fought in self defense or in the defense of others, and only if he had no choice. He was the best of men, kind and compassionate and wise beyond his 92 years. Humanity's well-being was his concern. As far as I know, he had no enemies.

When I saw four strangers standing over his lifeless, headless body, something snapped inside me. Everything Krishan taught me about self-control went out the window when I saw the macabre scene. Four men in bloody ninja uniforms, their faces hidden, standing over my dear friend with swords dripping with his blood.

One of the men still held onto Krishan's body, and when he saw me, he dropped it. I looked from Krishan to his killers, and rage unlike anything I'd felt before filled me, temporarily blackening my heart. I charged them, giving no thought to the lessons Krishan had taught me over the decades since we first met. Gladius[1], my sword -- Defender of the Damned -- fed off my rage. I didn't even try to stop it as it took one life, then another, until all four lay scattered, their collective life force flowing out onto the hardwood floorboards upon which Krishan and countless students, including me, had practiced the martial for so many decades.

The thought of being without Krishan's companionship saddens me greatly. I knew he would die someday, but I thought he would be the first on my short list of mortal friends to die in old age. Peacefully in his sleep. The way he actually died -- it was heinous, unjust, and certainly undeserved.

None of this went through my mind when I saw his lifeless body for the first time, nor did I think about it as I was killing those men. Rage prevented me from rational thought. All I knew was that he was dead, and I was angrier than I'd been in a long time. I lashed out without a thought to the consequences. I did what my rage demanded, and in seconds, his killers lay dead, staining the floor with their blood. The floor that Krishan and I had so recently sat upon in meditation and quiet conversation. The floor on which countless students had tumbled and fought as they practiced their craft. The floor that Krishan and I had periodically sanded, stained, and varnished with our own hands.

When it was all done, and I stood there, my chest heaving with every belabored breath, it hit me. The grief at being without my friend and mentor. The coming consequence of my rash actions. The fact that I could do nothing to repent of my sin, even though Krishan deserved justice for his early death. All of this hit me in that moment. It was one of the few times in my long life that I actually cried. The experience was not unlike waves hitting a beach during a rough bout of weather. Waves of grief and loneliness hit me, one right after the other, causing the tears to flow more and more fully.

What happened next I'll have to share next time. It had such an impact on me -- on my heart and soul -- that I need to think on it for a bit before I write about it here.

I will say this much. I miss my old friend. His death, and the deaths of many like him, are the reason I find it exceedingly difficult to go out of my way to make friends. When they die, more often than not, I grieve. I grieve hard. It's gotten to the point where I almost wanted to go to Iciria[2] and end it all. I couldn't take any more of the heartache, or so I believed. I tried to harden myself against it, but when all was said and done, I'd still grieve when I lost someone important to me. Krishan's death was no different, but in a way, it was different. Very different. When he died, I lost all hope, at least for a brief time. Who would help me control the jumble of emotions I felt on an almost daily basis? He always knew the right words that would give me the determination to keep going, to try being better than I was. Some very dark days followed his death -- for both me and my brother, Zach -- but that's something I'll explain at another time.

For now, I'll end with this thought:

"When life knocks you down, you need to dust yourself off, stand up, and keep going. I know it
doesn't feel like it at the time, but those low points are the very things that will make you
stronger."

~ Krishan Sharma

Krishan made me a stronger, better man than when I first met him. For that, and for many more reasons, I will always cherish our friendship.

Samandriel

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

[1]Gladius, Defender of the Damned: a magical sword Krishan gave Samandriel shortly before his death. It renders its wielder invulnerable during fights, leading them to victory. Its magic only works on those who are fallen.

[2] Iciria: a dimension in time and space that evil can't inhabit. If a fallen being or person of impure heart enters Iciria, they will face complete oblivion with no afterlife, neither in Sheforat nor in any of the other celestial planes.


Excerpt from Chapter 23:

Whispers from the Past

The Valorin Wilderness

The storm moved off, eventually fizzling out, but Samandriel still could not access his magic. He would have to rely on his sword and his skills to survive whatever threats he encountered from here on out, because he refused to give up the search for his brother.

A light breeze blew as he tramped through the snow. The sun hung low in the sky, but wouldn’t set until weeks from now. He wouldn’t be able to hide out in the open, but nor would anyone else who might threaten him.

Samandriel.

He halted in his steps and cocked his head to the side, listening. The voice came again, a whisper on the breeze.

Samandriel.

He thought he recognized that voice, but he couldn’t be sure. And if it was who he thought it was, he must have escaped from Sheforat when Zach did — either that, or there was another prison break.

You should have been there with me, the voice continued. You were just as guilty as I was.

Samandriel ignored the voice and focused on putting one foot in front of the other.

Fight me, Samandriel. Prove to me you’ve still got what it takes.

He continued to ignore the voice, focusing instead on the sound and quality of it. It was, indeed, his old friend, Omael. They’d started out as friends, but had ended up on opposite sides of a war that neither of them should have taken part in.

One way or another, you’re going to fight me, and I’ll send you to Sheforat. Want to know what I’ll do then?

Samandriel shook his head, willing Omael to go away. Instead, the fallen angel continued his threats.

I’m going to kill everyone you hold dear. I’ll start with that brother of yours. Zach’s trapped in another dimension of Ithuriel’s devising.

Samandriel stopped. He remembered that name. He’d loved Ithuriel once, but when Omael had come into the picture, Sam hadn’t fought for Ithuriel. He’d blindly believed their love could weather anything, including the attentions of his best friend.

And he lost her to Omael.

But that wasn’t the worst of it. The worst part was the fight between himself and Omael. They’d been the best of friends, more like brothers. But Omael had killed for Sam, and Sam hadn’t wanted that, and a rift had formed between them.

Then war had broken out, and they’d supported opposite sides.

He stopped and stared up at the sky. “On the life of my brother, I will not spill even a drop of your blood, Omael. We were brothers once. We may be enemies now, but I refuse to fight you.”

With that, he returned his focus to the land around him, wondering how he could free Zach from another dimension.


Book I'm Currently Reading:

The Circle of Ceridwen: Book One of the Circle of Ceridwen Saga, by Octavia Randolph


From Amazon:

It is the year 871. Of seven Anglo-Saxon kingdoms, five have fallen to the invading Vikings. No trait is more valued than loyalty, and no possession more precious than one's steel. Across this war-torn landscape travels fifteen year old Ceridwen, now thrust into the lives of the conquerors.

Epic...immensely satisfying...an impressive achievement - Historical Novel Society The English Adventure loved by over 100,000 readers in 125 countries...

Lost in the frozen woods, Ceridwen is discovered by the warriors accompanying young Ælfwyn, daughter of a Saxon lord, sold against her will in marriage as part of a peace treaty with a marauding Viking war chief. Their destination is the captured fortress of Four Stones, a ruin holding glittering treasure. There Ælfwyn must keep her vow and wed Yrling - and Ceridwen must do all she can to support her new friend in the rebuilding of the ravaged village and great hall.

But living with the enemy affords Ceridwen unusual freedoms - and unlooked-for conflicts. Amongst them she explores again her own heathen past, and learns to judge each man on his own merits. Yrling's nephews Sidroc and Toki, both formidable warriors yet as different as night and day, compete to win Ceridwen for their own.

Through both guile and goodness Ceridwen and Ælfwyn begin transforming the world of Four Stones. But the threat of full-scale war escalates, and a midnight party of furtive Danes delivers someone to Four Stones who destroys the girls' hopes of peace and contentment. Now Ceridwen must summon all her courage - a courage which will be sorely tested as she defies both Saxon and Dane and undertakes an extraordinary adventure to save a man she has never met..


Music I'm Currently Listening To:

A Rustic Christmas playlist on Spotify, a mix of Scottish, Irish, Gaelic, Medieval and Renaissance music, mostly with a Christmas theme.


Video I Like:

This one is more of a series. Maria at Northern Heart (on YouTube) did a series of videos on Swedish Christmas traditions a year ago, called My Swedish Christmas Calendar. I've just discovered her recently, and I've been really enjoying the series.

Here's the first video: Classic Swedish Christmas DIYs

If you like all things Scandinavian, I highly recommend her channel.

News & Announcements:

I've been getting a bit of writing done. I've also been reading a lot, and I'll tell you what I've been reading below. My hands are still achy, but not quite as bad as they were. I'm still trying to keep it under 3K per day, which hasn't been difficult, since most of the chapters so far are very short. They should start to get a bit longer, now that I'm about to start writing the second act.

I'm also getting more into the hygge mindset and the Christmas spirit, as usually happens about this time every year. I've got almost all of my Christmas shopping done, so there's that. Now we need to focus on getting a tree and decorating, then Christmas celebrations/dinners. Hopefully, things won't be fraught with stress, as it seems every Christmas season tends to have this problem.

I've included a very long character journal entry from Zachariel's point of view, plus a brief excerpt from one of the chapters I wrote this week. I hope you enjoy them.

Happy reading!

Lois


Writing/Goals Progress:

I'm adding last Friday's word count here, since I somehow left off Friday, the 29th's word count a couple of weeks ago. I wanted to get back on track here.

The first number for each day is that day's word count. The second is the total for the novel at the end of that day.

Fallen: Out of Time

Day 6: 550 | 8,070 (from last week)
Day 7: 1,297 | 9,367
Day 8: 853 | 10,220
Day 9: 1,165 | 11,385
Day 10: 1,296 | 12,681
Day 11: 1,376 | 14,057
Day 12: 1,550 | 15,607
Day 13: 0 | 15,607

Weekly Total Plus One Day: 8,087


Character Journal Entry - Zachariel: Big Plans

Who woulda thought I'd be here after all this time, huh? I mean, 13,000 years is a long time when you're being flayed and whipped and all down under. I didn't think I'd ever break free. Never had a chance. Well, not 'til that witch got clever and opened a portal to summon a demon. Big mistake. Witch, meet Zachariel, Fallen Chayal* and Soon-To-Be Destroyer of Illdirin.

She tasted -- meh. Normally, I'm not a flesh eater, but I did it. I snacked on her. Disgusting, I know, but I'd just been flayed. Very little meat remained on my bones. I was ravenous. Needed to rebuild what Ap-- what he took from me. It's not like I was consciously thinking, "hey, I think I'll eat a human today. See if it tastes like chicken," or something like that. It was all instinct. The only reason I know what happened is because I remember being covered with her blood during one of the few lucid moments I had after I got here.

See, in the first hours I was here -- maybe a day, day and a half -- I was mostly out of it. Going from down under to the land of the living can do that to you. It's disorienting, even to a fallen celestial like me.

I did, however, remember what I wanted more than anything since they took Sachiel from me. After living with it for almost 13 millennia, there's no way I'd forget my most basic need. And I've got a plan.

I heard there's an immortal, a very young female who actually has magic. And not just any one magic, either. Hell, no. She's got all of 'em. And their source? Illdirin itself and its atmosphere. I have to have this immortal. Seriously. If we can meld her magics to my bound power, aim it all down toward the center of Illdirin, I could blow it up -- and free everyone down there.

I suppose anyone reading this might wonder why I'd wanna do all that. It's pretty simple and straightforward. The Gods killed the woman I loved. Now I wanna kill everything they love -- basically, all the mortals on Illdirin.

But what does that have to do with those down under? Well, honestly, I don't care one way or the other 'bout 'em, but the Gods wouldn't like it, so it would be a score for me. And who knows? Maybe all those people and monsters and fallen angels, the lesser gods, will give Illdir and Tatia a run for their money. Serves 'em right after what they did to Sachiel.

When Archan and his hellhounds took me down under, I knew the punishment was just. I didn't like it, but hey! I knew what I was getting myself into when I decided to pursue a relationship with Sachiel. To explain: I was a warrior of the Agaean. Sachiel was a fallen celestial. Fallen because she'd remained faithful to her goddess after she fell. Rule #2 in the Celestial Rulebook: Thou shalt not carry on and have sex with a fallen being. Okay, I'm paraphrasing here, but you get the picture, yeah? So I was sent down under because I chose to love a fallen celestial. Not only that, but we were gonna have a kid together.

So, what happened to Sachiel, you might be asking. This is how it went down. Archan handed me over to the ancient fallen celestial who was to be my torturer for the rest of eternity. He put me in chains and whipped me good, just 'cause he could, the sadistic bastard. But that wasn't enough for the Gods. Nope. They brought Sachiel to where I was being whipped, and they killed her right in front of me. Basically, they rubbed salt in my wound. They wanted to watch me suffer.

Not only did they behead her. That would do nothing to destroy her. She'd just rejuvenate. So what else did they do? They drained her with anti-magic, which made her as vulnerable as a mortal, then ran her through -- right where my son was.

Yeah, I knew the baby was a boy. We both knew it. That's how we work. We can feel the life force a few hours after its conceived, and we can tell by the feel of its power whether it's a boy or a girl. When we found out, we ran. We wanted to be together more than anything. We wanted to watch our son grow up. We couldn't do that on Illdirin or anywhere in the Gods' domain. We were on the run when Archan and his hellhounds found us. And we were in another dimension. But he's got serious skills, and so do his mutts. They found us in, like, two days. Granted, those are Agaean days. One day on the Agaean is like 5,000 years on Illdirin.

So, they killed Sachiel. They showed no remorse for taking the life of one they'd created, nor the innocent life growing inside her. They wanted to make a point. A point!

And I was their example to other celestials who might get the idea of starting something with a fallen one. I can just imagine the talk going 'round the Agaean. "Remember Zachariel? He was stupid enough to love a fallen one, and now he'll suffer for all eternity. Learn from his mistake. Don't bring shame on yourself and your family like he did."

Whatev. I don't care what they think 'bout me. Soon, it won't matter anyway, 'cause I'm gonna avenge their deaths. It's not just Sachiel I cared about. Our son -- I never got to meet him. Never got to see him grow up to become a warrior. I'm gonna make 'em pay for that -- or I'll die trying. Unless they send me back. I can't go back, so I can't fail.

The hell I've been through, I wouldn't wish it on my worst enemy. Well, I wish it on him daily -- the sicko who does most of it. But he's an exception. I hate him with everything that's in me. I kept looking for that one opening to whoop his butt, to make him my victim, instead of the other way 'round, but it never came. All that came was a portal to the land above, and of course I took advantage of the opportunity. Given a choice between whooping his butt and freedom? Hell, I'm taking freedom!

I keep seeing him, though. It's all in my head. I'm one paranoid son of a gun. I keep thinking he escaped, too, and is looking for me. I ain't seen no evidence that he's here, though. If he was, I think Archan would find him. His hellhounds would drag him back under.

'Course, Archan hasn't come for me yet, either. It's only a matter of time before he does, so I've gotta work smart. Maybe the Gods didn't believe my threat to break free and destroy the planet. Who knows? But eventually, they'll send him. I'll be ready when they do. I plan to do as much damage as possible in whatever limited time I've got. It's the least I can do for Sachiel and our son.

We never gave our kid a name. In some ways, I don't wanna give him one. I'd rather he remain an abstract concept. If I give him a name, will he become a weakness I have to deal with? Maybe I can give him a name after I get my revenge. Then, I can mourn. Until then? Not happening.

Would you believe I've never actually mourned for them? 13,000 years down under, but not once have I shed a single tear. Never had the chance or inclination, what with all the torture and my single-minded desire for vengeance. As soon as the gods killed my family, I kept one thing in mind: I had to avenge them.

Over time, all the other feelings melted away, and only the need for vengeance remained. It still remains. Love? I remember the concept, but not what it's like to feel it? Compassion? Yeah, right. Happiness, contentment, gratefulness -- you name it, same deal. I remember the concepts, but to experience the actual feelings? Not in nearly 13 millennia. I wouldn't know them if I felt them today, that's for sure.

'Course, I've still got rage. Rage keeps me warm at night. It's what fuels my desire for vengeance. Without rage, I'd never succeed. I have a clear understanding of what rage feels like.

In everything that's going on, there's one wild card. That's my brother, Sam. I fully expect him to learn of my escape. I'd be willing to bet he'll look me up. I don't want him to. I don't need the distraction. I'm half expecting the Gods to use him against me. If they do, I'm screwed. I ain't seen Sam since I was dragged down under. He was just a kid then. Hell, I wasn't much older. I guess there's always the chance he won't want anything to do with me. That would solve a lot, but I just don't see it happening. Sam and me, we stuck together. We had each other's back. Maybe I'm wrong, but I don't see him falling for whatever stories have been going 'round 'bout me. If there was anyone who'd stay true, no matter what, it would be my kid brother. No way would Sam betray me.

'Course, there was a time when I thought the Gods could never betray one of their own. I saw them do it with my own two eyes when they drained Sachiel and killed her. I'll never trust them again. They proved they're no better than the rest of 'em. They're all out for what they can get. None of 'em care about anything else. People are just a means to an end. Although, I do believe Illdir and Tatia really care about the mortals of Illdirin. They wouldn't have created the laws they did otherwise. Y'know, like that Rule #2 in the Celestial Rulebook I mentioned above.

I'm hoping Sam chooses to stay away. I don't want him touched by what I do and the choices I make. And if he has mortal friends, I don't wanna know 'bout 'em. What I don't know won't make me hesitate when the time comes, y'know? If he's got people he cares 'bout here, and I find out 'bout 'em, I might not carry through with my plan.

But no, that won't happen. I've learned to compartmentalize. I've had to, what with everything done to me down there. I'll be fine. I'll just play it cool, make myself not care. It'll make Sam hate me, but it's a price I'm willing to pay to avenge their deaths.

Whatever comes of this, I'm ready to pay my dues. I've really got nothing left to live for. To die for Sachiel and our son would be an honor. No one would mourn my death -- except for Sam, and maybe our sister, Kristiel -- but that's the way I want it. Well, I don't want Sam and Kristiel to have to mourn my death, but it would probably be best for them if they didn't have me as their brother, anyway. I can't do anything for 'em but cause trouble. Trouble's what I'm living for these days.

Anyway, I've got "followers." Fallen celestials, mortals, immortals, demons, monsters. They're all following me 'cause they think I'm looking out for 'em. Most of 'em don't know my real purpose. They just want to be led. They wanna be told what to do. Give 'em a pat on the back once in a while, and they're golden. Makes 'em feel important, I guess. Only three other people know what I'm all 'bout, and they've promised to be loyal to the end. Granted, they're fellow ex-inmates, and I'm taking their word with a grain of salt. But I've always watched my own back. I've had no one else to depend on. Just me, myself, and I. No way am I dropping my guard now.

And I've got a stronghold. Some old town out in the desert. I call it Nefaria. Has a nice ring to it, huh? So, I picked out a building to be my home. It's the nicest building in this one-horse town. Even has a courtyard with a fountain out back. Granted, the fountain doesn't work, but I've got engineers working on getting it up and running. They said they'll have to dig down really far. I told 'em to do what they can. 'Course, it helped that I told 'em any failure would get 'em flayed. That spurred 'em on to greater effort.

Everyone in my group has their own place now. Some are doubled up. We've got some prostitutes among us. They're bunked together in one house, and the rest of us partake of what they're offering as time permits. I've also got men out looking for this immortal with magic. Once they bring her to me, I'll take it from there. I know I'll have a lot of convincing to do. She won't just believe everything I say right off the bat. Fortunately, I've gotten pretty good at lying.

After so many years down under, this place is like the lap of luxury. You'd be amazed to see the difference between the two places. My cell down under had no bars, but I couldn't leave. I was always bound to something. The place always smelled of sulfur, and fires burned constantly. Despite the fires, there were lots of deep shadows. The lesser demons -- called shadow demons -- liked to hide in the darkness and taunt people from there. If they weren't tempting and taunting people with their whispers, they were touching and fondling them with their grotesque hands, each finger ending in long, sharp claws. I always knew where they were, 'cause their eyes glowed red. If I saw glowing red eyes, it was a sure bet that something bad lurked there.

This place, though? Complete opposite. It's very light here, at least during the day. And I have lots of room to move around. Even though there are a lot of walls, I don't feel like I'm trapped. I can come and go as I please. There's furniture here, some of it's pretty nice. There's this couch I really love. It's in my office. It used to be red, but it's pretty faded now. When I lie on it, I feel like I'm sinking into a cloud. I could die happy if I'm lying on that couch when I go.

The engineers are working on getting the electric up and running. They said the wiring's ancient, but in good shape. It's just disconnected in places, and the power plant's been shut down. It will take some time to get it back up and running, but they promise it won't be too long.

Now to get my fountain working. I've missed water. You people who've lived here for years take it for granted, but if you didn't have it, you'd find out pretty quick how important it is. There were so many times, down under, when I woulda killed for just a drop of water on my tongue to quench the neverending thirst. You people treat it like it's an endless commodity, like it can never run out. I've got news for you. It can, and it will, once I see my plan through to fruition.

Well, back to work. My minions need the attention of their king, and who am I to deny them?

Z

* Chayal: angelic warrior, angelic soldier


Excerpt from Chapter 18:

A moment later, Archan vanished in a flash of light and thunder.

A clap of real thunder jarred Zach back to the present, where he found himself kneeling in the snow, tears frozen to his cheeks. He’d had a flashback, as if he’d really been down under. The experience had seemed so real, and he couldn’t shake the grief that cut just as deep and fresh as it had millennia ago.

He forced the grief down and locked it up tight, as he’d done for so long. He couldn’t take the pain, so he avoided it altogether. Now, he pushed himself to his feet and, with his chin raised in determination, he put one foot in front of the other, slogging away through the ice and snow, trying with all his might to shake the funk that threatened to overtake him.

The storm was close enough that its thunder and lightning still startled him at times.

As he trudged along, he spotted a figure in the distance. He ran over to the trees and followed them forward, toward the figure. As he neared, he found that she was an elvin mage of some kind.

A falcon cried far above, and the mage glanced back over her shoulder.

In that moment, Zach froze. She looked so much like Sachiel it took his breath away.

“Sachiel?” he whispered, knowing it couldn’t be her. But how could he explain her perfect likeness in the elvin mage?

She continued on, and he followed. They went on like this for some time until she came to a small structure. She cleared it of snow and ice, revealing it to be an altar of some kind.

Zachariel watched as she chanted an arcane spell.

Moments later, a portal opened.


Book I'm Currently Reading:

I'm making my way through A.G. Riddle's The Long Winter trilogy. I'm currently on the final book, The Lost Colony. I'm really loving the characters and the plot. It's definitely very character driven, which I love, but the plot keeps me on the edge of my seat. It's great!


Music I'm Currently Listening To:

Going with the Viking metal flow this week with Valkyrja, by Tyr. :)


Video I Like:

This week's video is actually a series on Amazon Prime. It's called Jack Ryan, and it's based on one of Tom Clancy's most beloved characters when he was younger. I could binge watch this in a weekend and be extremely happy at the end...well, until I hit the series cliffhanger. Who doesn't hate cliffhangers?

News & Announcements:

My wrists have been pretty achy this week, which makes it hard to type a lot. Despite this, I'm still getting in a daily word count of at least 500 words. So far, I haven't missed a day.

I've started reading a new book and am loving it. I've linked it below. I highly recommend it. It's told in first person point of view, where James and Emma, the two main characters, tell the story in alternating viewpoints. I have a hard time putting it down each night, but I have to sleep, so I do. ;) You can read the description on Amazon at the link I've posted.

Happy reading!

Lois


Writing/Goals Progress:

The first number for each day is that day's word count. The second is the total for the novel at the end of that day.


NaNoWriMo:

Day 29: 1,545 | 79,151
Day 30: 2,321 | 81,472


Fallen: Out of Time

Day 1: 583 | 583
Day 2: 1,951 | 2,534
Day 3: 1,145 | 3,679
Day 4: 2,371 | 6,050
Day 5: 1,470 | 7,520

Weekly Total: 11,386



Character Journal Entry - Zachariel: Freak

Why do I feel like I don't belong anywhere? Why can't I...trust anyone? You'd think I could trust Sam, at least, but I don't. I mean, he's my brother. We're family. But it doesn't feel like that to me. It feels more like we're strangers. He doesn't get me, and probably never will. I don't get him, either, though, so I guess we're kinda even.

He said his house is my house, but I don't feel comfortable there. Not completely, anyway. I don't feel like I belong anywhere. Do you have any idea what it's like to feel lost? I mean totally lost, like no place is familiar. You don't even fit in your own skin. That's what I feel like ever since I came back.

I try to fit in. 'N' I try to let people in. But I freeze. Soon's it starts lookin' like we might cross that stranger-friend barrier, I panic and clam up. Why...do I do that? What kind of jacked up freak have I become?

I must be one hell of an actor, 'cause it seems like I come off as just fine. No one seems to notice I'm different. They act like I'm the same as everyone else. News flash: I ain't like everyone else. I'm broken. A freak. I'm the craziest freak you'll ever meet, even if I don't show it. I may not act on all the crazy stuff that goes through my head, but if anyone could read me, they'd be totally freaked out. I freak myself out sometimes with the insanity in my brain. I ain't right. I can't be. But what can I do 'bout it?

Sometimes I wish celestials could sleep, 'cause I'd sleep for eternity. Then again, if I could sleep, I'd have serious nightmares. So, how can I get rid of the memories for even a little while? I've tried booze 'n' Sapphire. They don't work. All they do is make me stupid 'n' give me hangovers. I'm stupid enough without that crap. 'N' I get enough headaches dealin' with the crazy in my head. Don't need to make it worse, right?

I know 'bout the so-called angel drugs, but I don't want to use those, either. Too much can go wrong, 'n' there's the risk of gettin' hooked on 'em. Hell, I've already taken 'em. Not by choice, but -- I was an idiot. I trusted the wrong people. Yeah, that's right. I trusted 'em. Of all the people I coulda chosen to trust, why'd it have to be Sandman 'n' the Boss? Granted, I think the boss is a bigger freak than I am, but only almost. I still take the lead on that one. Anyway, I was undercover. Sort of a mission, but a stupid one. What can I do against a huge illegal operation? I'm just me. No powers 'n' fallen. I'm no hero. But I thought I could be. Talk about stupid.

I'll admit it. I was reckless. I didn't think 'bout what might happen. I wanted to prove I could be good for somethin', 'n' not just a useless mooch. I wanted to prove it to myself. 'N' to Sam. To everyone who knows me. 'N' I did good for a while there. But somehow Sandman 'n' the Boss caught onto me, 'n' that's when everythin' fell apart.

I didn't get hooked on the drugs, though. I didn't take 'em long enough. I just -- I needed more 'cause of the pain and nausea that hit me like a ton of bricks when I started crashin'. At one point, I was takin' a pharmacy of illicit drugs. I think the only angel drugs I wasn't takin' were Ash 'n' Serenity. That leaves -- eight, I think? But there might be more I don't know 'bout.

'N' turns out I've got PTSD. I didn't even know that was a thing. It makes sense, though. I saw 'n' did 'n' took some seriously messed up stuff when I was down under. Apollyon might've been the worst of my torturers, but he wasn't the only one. I'm talkin' 'bout the powerful ones that decided to take their rage out on me. They weren't all driven by rage, but that was the most popular reason. There were other reasons they -- did what they did to me. Some were just sadistic. Anyway, you can probably get why I'd have issues after 13,000 years down under.

I should be stronger. Strong enough to take everything they threw at me. I tried to be. I fought 'em tooth 'n' nail every step of the way. But they won. I'm damaged goods. A freak no one really wants to know. I bet Sam wouldn't even miss me if I left, 'n' that hurts. A lot. That's also why I don't dare to let him in. It's one thing to be damaged by your enemies. It's another to be damaged by those you love. 'N' I do love my brother. Guess that's why this is so hard. I don't know how to act around him. I don't know how close to let him get. 'N' there's always the very real possibility that I'll be the one to hurt him. I could never forgive myself if I did, so I keep him at a distance. Don't wanna hurt 'n' don't wanna be hurt. But if given a choice, I'd rather hurt someone else than have them hurt me. It's just the way I roll.

The take away here? I'm a freak with PTSD. Not an enviable place to be in, that's for sure. I didn't choose to be like this. Apollyon 'n' all the others, they turned me into the monster I am today. Will I ever be normal? Will I ever fit in 'n' belong anywhere? Will I ever be close to anyone? I miss havin' friends, being' in love, knowin' others got your back while you got theirs.

I've never been the suicidal type, but I'm seriously startin' to depress myself. I'm tempted to take Serenity and eat a bullet, but for some twisted reason, I still wanna live. My life is completely shot, but I ain't ready to pack it in just yet. Call me crazy. Call me whatever you want. Just don't call me a quitter. I've never quit anythin' in my life, 'n' I ain't 'bout to start now.

Z


Excerpt from Chapter 3: The Last Frontier

Kanduyar, Indas

Zachariel Tagas yawned. Not because he was sleepy, but to get his brother’s attention.

“What do you want, Zach?” Samandriel asked.

“I’m bored. Can’t we get out of here? Go do something fun or whatever?”

“Like what?”

Zach grinned. “Now that you ask—” He picked up the magazine he’d been reading and opened to the page of which he’d folded down the top corner. He tapped on it and set it down on Sam’s desk. “I wanna go there.”

“Valorin?” Sam asked. “Why there?”

“It’s the last frontier, Sam. Hardly anyone’s been there, and most of it hasn’t been explored even by the locals.”

“Yeah, so?”

“So, we should go explore it.”

Sam picked up a file folder and stared up at Zach. “I have way too much to do. I’ve got new students coming in who need to be processed, repairs to the outbuildings that need to be seen to, a new cook to hire—”

Zach ran a hand through his short, dark hair and glared at his brother. “Why don’t you just say it, Sam. You don’t wanna hang out with me. That’s it, isn’t it? I’m different now, and you don’t understa—”

“We’ve been over this, Zach. I have a business to run. I can’t afford to gallivant all over the world just because you’re bored. I have responsibilities here.”

Zach snatched up the magazine. “Fine, I’ll go alone.”

“With what? Your good looks credit card?”

“I’ve saved up a little money from the odd jobs I’ve got. I’ll make due.”

“You have no idea how much it will cost you to get there, do you?”

“I’ll research it. If I have to, I’ll take on more work.”

“Never mind that,” Sam said. He went to the safe, removed the painting that hid it, and unlocked it. He carried the cash box over to the desk and opened it. “I figure the air fare alone will be around a thousand guilders.” He counted out some bills and held them out toward Zach.

Zach crossed his arms over his chest. “I don’t need handouts. I need your company.”

“I can’t go. Take the money.”

Zach let out a breath. “Fine, but it’s not charity. I’ll pay you back.”

“I know you will. After you get this adventure stuff out of your system, you’ll work for me.”

Zach narrowed his eyes at Sam. “Work for you how?”

“We’ll come up with something when you get back. For now, have fun and don’t do anything stupid.”

“Like what?”

“Like getting into a fight with the locals or getting yourself thrown in jail.”

“Why would I do that?”

“I don’t know that you would. I just want you to remember that anything you do will reflect on me and this school, so think before you act.”

“This is bull****,” Zach said, and he tossed the money back at Sam and turned to leave the room. “I don’t need your money. I’ll get there on my own.”

“Zach, would you stop?” Sam called after him.

“What?” Zach asked, halting in his tracks without looking back.

“Take the money, okay? Have a good time.”

“I don’t want your money.”

“Then how will you get there? It’s a long way from here.”

“I’ll figure something out.”

Sam picked up the money and rose to his feet. He approached Zach and grabbed his hand, set the money in it. “Take it. I want you to have it. I shouldn’t have said what I did. I apologize.”

“Will you come with me?”

“I can’t. I have too much work to do.”

Zach took the money and crammed it into the front pocket of his jeans. “Fine, whatev. See you around.”

Sam watched his brother go, a look of concern on his face, then he went back behind the desk and sat down, his mind already focused on other things.


Book I'm Currently Reading:

Winter World (The Long Winter Trilogy Book 1)


Music I'm Currently Listening To:

Classical Moods: Autumn Time (Vivaldi and More)


Video I Like:

Extreme Parkour and Freerunning 2018

News

First of all, I'd like to wish everyone a very happy Thanksgiving. My next post won't be until the day after, so I thought I'd get that in now. I hope you have a warm, cozy, fun-filled holiday.

I've been taking it a little slower this third week of November/NaNoWriMo, but I'm still writing. Just not pushing myself. My hands have begun to hurt a little, so I need to take it easy. You can see my daily word counts, along with the novel's total word count, below.

Otherwise, I've finished reading Russell Blake's Black In The Box. Really loving this series and wish there were more books. I've also begun his The Day After Never: Nemesis book. I highly recommend these two series, along with his Assassin series (link takes you to the first book in the series, King of Swords, on Amazon). The Black series is noir mystery with a lot of sarcastic humor. The Day After Never is post apocalyptic with a western feel. Assassin is, duh, about an assassin. Ha ha! But you find yourself rooting for the assassin, El Rey, especially in the last two or three books.

Have you read any great books lately? What are they? What did you love about them? What made them hard to put down? Let me know in the comments!

Happy reading!

Lois


Writing Goal Progress:

I wrote 13,388 words this week, a bit less than last week's 25,644 (or week one's 26,429), but I've been taking it a bit easy since reaching 50K. I'm still pretty proud of how much I've written.

WEEK 3:

Day 15: 1,301 -- Novel total: 53,504
Day 16: 2,128 -- Novel total: 55,620
Day 17: 0        -- Novel total: 55,620
Day 18: 2,956 -- Novel total: 58,576
Day 19: 3,250 -- Novel total: 61,826
Day 20: 1,926 -- Novel total: 63,752
Day 21: 1,827 -- Novel total: 65,579



Meet the Character: Katrina

STATS:

Character Model: Lara Croft (Tomb Raider)
Age: 26
Height: 5’7”
Weight: 130 lbs.
Eyes/Hair: Brown / dark brown
Alignment: Good

DEITY:

Illdir & Tatia: Neutral good. (ĭl’ dēr | tät’ yä) The Creator Gods, the patron gods of Illdirin itself. Worshiped by those who strive to live in harmony with the earth.

RACE:

Human:
About 30% of Illdirin’s population is human. Humans have no magic of their own, though most can use magical artifacts.

As far as good and evil, humans are all over the board, yet they’re still the chosen race, and they are protected by immortals and celestials.

Humans have a finite existence on Illdirin, with the average life span being about 70-80 years.

Because of their ability to adapt and change, humans can be found in nearly all lines of work.

Most humans live on the surface of Illdirin, though there are a few who live in Sub-Terra. Those in Sub-Terra mostly keep to themselves, but some have been enslaved by the other races, or they’ve become members of different warring factions that are scattered about.

Humans, in general, worship all the gods, or none at all, but their patron gods are Illdir and Tatia, the Creator Gods who first gave them life.

MISCELLANEOUS FACTS:

Strengths: Loyal, observant, intelligent, compassionate, hardworking, dependable, trustworthy, determined, focused, fair-minded, protective, tech savvy, patient, adaptable, quick witted, adaptable

Weaknesses: Has a love of old things and isn’t above stealing, but if someone else steals from her and her group, she will grow angry about it. | Those she cares about can be used against her, because her feelings run deep.

Languages: A little bit of Celestial, a little bit of Madaiian, Arconian, Agrian Proper, a smattering from other languages

Favored Weapon: Handguns (also proficient with rope, whip, dagger, and hand-to-hand combat)

Career: Archaeologist, adventurer, researcher

Motto: “The past must be preserved at all costs, and if I should profit from it, why shouldn’t I?”

Trained Skills: Theology | History | Survival | Hand-to-hand combat | Magical Artifacts | Archaeological Methods | Sociology | Computer Science | Martial Arts | Technical Writing

Untrained Skills: Street Fighting | Athletics | Endurance | Intimidate | Acrobatics | Stealth | Parkour | Negotiate | Acting

RESIDENCES (Most Recent First): Illdirin

Town: Kanduyar, Indas — Katrina splits her time between Kanduyar and the Homewood Sanctuary, along with Samandriel. She is an independent career woman with business contacts in both Indas and Essear, as well as Arcona and Ethica, and she is legally able to work from any of these locations.

Town: Homewood Sanctuary, North of Saena Lanora, Forest Hemalean, Northern Essear — She’s lived here with Samandriel since she was about 23 years of age. From here, she works on archaeological research, sets up archaeological digs, and pursues other interests.

City: Westerview, Capital of Arcona — She returned to Westerview after university, but moved away after meeting Samandriel a year into her stay here.

City: Newgate Point, Ethica — She went to university here, in the largest city in Ethica. It’s situated on the eastern coast.

City: Cahyrst, Gaelgaret — Her family moved to Cahyrst when she was 16, and she finished out secondary school here.

City: Tariibaar, Al Shasra — Her family moved to Tariibaar when Katrina was 14, and they remained there for two years.

City: Westerview, Capital of Arcona — Katrina was born and lived here with her parents until the age of 14.

OCCUPATION:

Archaeologist
Katrina has always had a fascination with history, which includes ancient sites and artifacts. It is her one main passion in life, and she pursues knowledge about long forgotten places and people through her work.

She also loves to share her findings with others — not just other archaeologists, but average people, as well. In fact, she has a gift for simplifying concepts and other aspects of history so that the average layman can understand them. She’s sought out for her knowledge and experience.

Adventurer
There’s nothing that gets Katrina’s blood pumping quite like going on new adventures. She will gripe and complain about the dangers, the conditions she often has to live with, but deep inside, she relishes every moment spent seeking out new experiences, especially if these new experiences have anything to do with history and archeology. She can handle herself in the wild and against danger from rivals alike, as she’s had training (or been self-taught) in the ways to survive in any environment.

ABOUT KATRINA:
Ever since she was a little girl, Katrina was interested in history and all things ancient. She also loved to go outside and get dirty. But rather than play the average sports, she would go off by herself and climb hills and rocks and trees, swim in nearby lakes and rivers, and run through local forests, exploring their depths with intense interest.

A military brat, Katrina easily became friends with others like her, and they would all get together and practice various skills, such as running, fighting, and parkour. She had no problem competing against males her age, as she was extremely competitive.

On the other hand, every once in a while, Katrina likes to let her feminine side show. She feels as comfortable in a dress as she does in a tank top and jeans, and her career often calls for both at one time or another.

While in university, Katrina majored in archeology and sociology, with miners in computer science and technical writing. She was also a member of the swimming and parkour teams.

She met Samandriel during her post-university time in Westerview. They were traveling separately and happened to meet out in the Ugonaian desert. They decided to travel together, and they hit it off well. Soon after, they became romantically involved, and they’ve been together ever since.

Her secret dream is to marry Samandriel and have children with him. As a love of history, she naturally wants to leave a legacy — not just in writings and discoveries, but in children who share her passion for history.

Her biggest secret, however, is the cache of stolen artifacts she hides near Samandriel’s Homewood Estate. Over the years, she has dipped her fingers into many archaeological sites and stashed these pilfered objects in a cave in the surrounding mountains. Over time, she’s built a safe for these items that’s climate controlled with its own independent power source and security system. Not even Samandriel knows about it.


Excerpt (from chapters 49 and 51):

“Thank you so much for taking me to Abandale, Zachariel. I feel like so much good happened there today. Can you feel it, too?”

“I can,” Zachariel lied, giving her a warm smile. “It’s really good to see you so happy and full of energy. I’ll have to take you out more often.”

Ebonie squeezed his hand a little tighter. “Would you? Really?”

“I think it can be arranged,” he said. He stopped, as they’d reached her door. “I guess this is goodnight.”

“The day doesn’t have to end here, does it?” Ebonie asked with a frown. “Won’t you come in for a bit?”

“Are you sure?”

She blushed and lowered her gaze. “I — yeah, I’m sure.”

“Okay,” he murmured and unlocked the door. He opened it and waited for her to enter, then he stepped in behind her. He remained by the door, watching her closely as she let Scout out of his kennel and gave him some fresh food and water. He wondered if this was a good idea. Should he get physically involved with her? It would only mess with his emotions and his plan, wouldn’t it?

But she looked so damned beautiful that he couldn’t turn and walk away. His mind screamed for him to leave her alone even as his body moved toward her.

He pulled her into his arms and kissed her. She returned the kiss, clinging to him as if he were her lifeline. It made him feel strong and masculine.

“Are you sure you wanna do this?” he murmured against her ear.

“I’m sure,” she whispered.

He drew back and watched her. He brushed her long dark hair over one shoulder. With the other hand, he started unzipping her top. When it was far enough down, he stooped to kiss her neck and collarbone, then went lower.

In the next moment, he tugged on her skirt, letting it fall to the floor. He pushed the hem of her top up, and she lifted her arms over her head so he could more easily pull it off. He dropped it to the floor beside the skirt and gazed on her nearly naked flesh.

She had a beautiful form that was firm yet soft, fair skin that was nearly flawless, and fluid graceful movements that came naturally to her. He wanted to take his time with her, savor the experience, make it last.

He lifted her into his arms and carried her around the bed. He laid her upon it, then he yanked off his shirt and leaned down to kiss her belly. He tugged his pants off, kicking his shoes off with them, and soon, they were making love like there was no tomorrow.

- - -

All night, Zachariel warred with his conscience and his lack of memory. On one hand, he wanted to get up and leave. Ebonie had been a challenge, but he’d conquered her. Did he really need to stick around? On the other hand, if he wanted her to believe he loved her, walking out could have brought the whole thing to a halt. That much he knew for a fact. Had he left, she’d wonder why, and their line of communication, such as it was, would be strained at best, nonfunctional at worst.

And if that wasn’t enough, he wasn’t sure what he felt for her. Did he love her? Or was he just infatuated? Had it been his loneliness and need for companionship that had driven him to be with her?

He’d loved Sachiel, but that was a helluva long time ago. So long he couldn’t remember what his feelings for her had felt like. Had his heart raced at the thought of being with her as it had last night when Ebonie had invited her in? Had he been willing to endure almost any hardship for her as he realized he could for Ebonie? Had Sachiel’s smile brightened his days? Had her body warmed him inside during the long nights?

Why couldn’t he remember what it felt like back then? Did his desire for vengeance all these millennia drive out all other emotions? He remembered moments, but they held no emotion for him — except for that last moment when he’d watched the Gods take Sachiel’s head.

He didn’t even remember what his love for his unborn son had felt like.

Or the love for the brothers and sister he’d held so dear.

Though he could admit to feeling something when Sam had visited. But what was it? He didn’t think it was love, but how could he be certain? All he knew was that Samandriel’s presence had been familiar, almost like a feeling of being sheltered, though he couldn’t explain why “shelter” should be the word to come to mind.

He glanced down at Ebonie and found her sleepy, dark eyes watching him. He smiled down at her. “You’re awake.”

“You’re still here. I thought you’d leave in the middle of the night.”

“What would make you think that?”

She raised herself up on one elbow, and her messy, tangled hair tumbled down over her shoulder. “I dunno. I guess it seems too good to be true.”

“It’s true, Ebonie.” He touched the side of her face and gazed into her dark eyes. “I promise, it’s true. And I’m not going anywhere for a while.”

“Not even to get us some quava?” she asked, the corner of her mouth curving up into a little grin that he found endearing.

“Oh, well, if the lady needs quava, she shall have it,” Zachariel said, rising from the bed.

“Hurry back? I don’t know how long I can take your absence.”

“Won’t take 5 minutes. I’ll have the cook fix breakfast and quava, and someone will bring it up to us. How’s that sound?”

“Very convenient,” Ebonie said with a wink.

“Pays to be the man in charge.” Zach grinned as he padded over to where he’d kicked off his jeans and shoes the night before. He put them on now, then slipped his t-shirt over his head. He returned to the bed long enough to kiss her, then headed for the door. “Be right back.”

He returned a few minutes later and quickly undressed and climbed back into bed. He wrapped his arms around Ebonie and kissed her long and slow.

When he finally came up for air, he gazed into her dark eyes, trying to lose himself in them.

“How long before someone brings us our food?” Ebonie asked.

“He said it would take about twenty minutes.”

“Long enough for—?” Ebonie touched him under the covers.

He shuddered, and lowered his lips to her throat. “Mm hm,” he murmured. “You keep doing that, it won’t even take me 5 minutes. Have I told you how much I love your hands?”

“Not until now,” Ebonie whispered. “Should I stop?”

“Gods, no. Keep going, woman. Keep going.”


From the Legendus Illdirinus Encyclopedia: Black and Divine Light Magic:

There are many kinds of magic on Illdirin. for the purpose of this entry, I'll focus on Black and Divine Light, as they are polar opposites and prevalent in the story I'm currently writing.

Black Magic:
Black Magic on Illdirin is 100% evil. It was devised by ancient gods and their angels who had fallen long before Illdir & Tatia's time. Black Magic derives its power from the darkness and shadows, as well as the intent and emotions of its user. For example, if the user has murderous intent and is filled with rage, and it's nighttime, the black magic being used will be more powerful than if the user only wishes to trip someone up for fun during the day.

Those borne of divine light can't use black magic unless they fall, but then evil has to consume them before they can actually use it. Those who fall will eventually become users of black magic, but it takes a long time for most. In fact, Zachariel was in Sheforat (Hell) for almost 13,000 years, but he never became evil. He wanted revenge in all that time, but he never gave in to the evil so prevalent there. He only gave rein to his emotions, his anger and resentment, even hatred, but he never would have considered letting evil enter his spirit. Only those who let evil into their spirits are truly damned to eternity in Sheforat.

Black magic isn't all powerful, but it can cause a lot of damage. It is permanently corrupted and no good ever comes from it, even for its user, who is damned for their willingness to give in to the evil needed to wield it.

There are many black magic spells and artifacts, thanks to their introduction by an angel long ago, when the races were new. Since humans and Immortals don't have magic of their own, they must resort to artifacts (and spells if they work with an artifact).

Black magic is a supernatural power that can have tremendous influence over people, willing or not, conscious of it or not. Only the strongest divine light users are resistant to it, but even they can become corrupted by it over time.


Divine Light Magic:
Divine Light Magic is 100% pure. It's what the Creator Gods used to create their angels, beings of pure magic. Divine light magic can't be corrupted, though its user can be, over time. Black magic is exceptionally powerful, and divine light magic is its equal. No other magic can truly beat either of these if they're at full strength. Under the right circumstances, both divine light and black magic can cancel each other out.

Divine light magic gets its power from stars and other sources of light, as well as the purity of its user. This is why an evil person can not use divine light magic (and, conversely, a pure person can't use black magic). Divine light magic is supernatural by nature, and in the truly pure, it is the strongest magic out there. The user's purity is the main determinant in how strong the magic will be, though the amount of light will affect it, as well.

There are many divine light magic spells and artifacts. In the beginning of Illdirin, some of the gods and their angels taught the mortal races how to use them. Those who were magical by nature (elves, dwarfs, fey, etc.) took to them much more easily than humans, who have no magic of their own. Black magic was introduced to the races by a fallen angel in order to counteract divine light magic, and it's been a problem ever since.


Music I'm Currently Listening To:

One of the most gorgeous voices I've ever heard: Ruut DeMeo on YouTube! (My sister and I used to babysit her hubby when he was just a tiny tyke!)


Video I love:

The Northern Heart YouTube Channel: I like seeing how people live in the far 3north, especially in Scandinavia.

News


* Reminder: This year's Halloween short story, "The Hellhound," is up, and you can read it for free here.


If you've been following my blog and caught my last update, you'll know that I'm gearing up for this year's NaNoWriMo. I'll be writing the first draft of Fallen: Vendetta, the first book in the Fallen series. The outline is ready to go, so come November 1, I'll be ready to write it.


In the meantime, I'm revising the outline for book 5, Vendetta. I plan to have it ready before NaNoWriMo begins on the first so I can focus on the book I'll be writing.


It's finally cooling off here, and I'm starting to think of ways to add hygge to my home and daily routine. I found a really great article on the concept, and you can read it here (http://hyggehouse.com/hygge). I started getting ready for the season by ordering some Yogi tea and Oregon chai tea concentrate from Walmart, and I plan to pick up some more tealight candles, as well. And some chocolate covered coffee beans, if possible, though that's my reward during NaNoWriMo and really has little to do with hygge beyond old memories they bring. If I get my words in for the day, I have some. If not, I don't. I also have my white fluffy throw ready to go, and my yeti pjs, which I've yet to wear. Of course, I do intermittent fasting most weekdays (four-hour feeding window, 20 hours of fasting), so I'm not sure when I'd work in the chocobeans and chai. I'll figure it out, though.


I've finally finished reading Ivanhoe, by Sir Walter Scott . When I read this book years ago, I thought it was an awesome book. Now that I know a bit more about writing, I see all the purple prose, and it makes me cringe! It's still an awesome story. Just wish it didn't have all the flowery descriptions, explanations of every little thing, and so on. Now that I'm done with that, I've moved on to Black In the Box, by Russell Blake. It's a much faster read, and much more exciting!


Writing Goal Progress:


My only real goal since my last update was to revise the outline for Fallen: Nemesis (Book 5), and I've been working on that. It was a long outline, and the beginning seemed really drawn out, so I took out one of the storylines and will turn that into a short story later on. I plan to write the first drafts for these five books this year and next, starting with Fallen: Vendetta (Book 1) during this coming month's NaNoWriMo, but I don't plan to start publishing them until sometime in 2021.


Recipe:


As I get ready to participate in NaNoWriMo (their main event) for the 14th time, I realize it's time for me to get my snacks and rewards together. One of my favorite things to sip on during my writing sessions is Chai tea. I generally use Indian Spice tea from Harney & Sons, but the recipe I've found online is from Stash. It's nearly as good!


Chai Tea Latte


Music I'm Currently Listening To:


I made a playlist of music for when I'm working on my planning/writing/revision of the Fallen series, and Decyfer Down is one of my favorite bands on it. I won't put too many links here, though I would love to link you to every album I can find on YouTube, but here's my favorite of their albums:


Decyfer Down Scarecrow


Video I love:

I've been on a DMC: Devil May Cry kick lately. I'm relatively new to gaming, and I only play single player. I started with Assassin's Creed II and have worked up to Assassin's Creed: Rogue, but I wanted to try something new, as well. And since I use this Dante as my character model (appearance wise) for Zachariel in my Fallen series, I thought I would try the game. Before I ever got the game, I watched a video of all the cutscenes, and they made me want to play the game even more. Warning: there's some bad language in here, including the f-bomb.


DmC: Devil May Cry Definitive Edition All Cutscenes (Game Movie)


Signing off:

What have you been drawn to lately? Music, films, movies, books, they can all be great ways to pass the time during the changing seasons. List your favorites in the comments below so others can enjoy them too! :)

Cheers,

Lois