Character Interviews Week 4: Naraneel

Hello, hello!!
  How are you today? I hope you're doing well. Very well indeed. :)
   But here we are at the last week of character interviews!! Wow! This final week's character is Naraneel. And yes, this post is late. Again. For that, I am truly sorry. But it got late last night, and I'm trying to get over a little cold. Sometimes you just have to stop and say I'll finish it later, because I am going to bed RIGHT NOW. But here's the post, and here's the weekly picture:

  Yeah, um, it's extremely pathetic, and it doesn't do him justice, and there's a glare, and it somehow took on more of a cartoon-y vibe than I usually have in my pictures. (H-how did that happen?!) *Mutters* But this is the only picture I currently have of Naraneel, so... 

   Whatever.

   Let us begin our final character interview!

Me: Good day, Naraneel!

Naraneel: *Smiles cordially* Good day. 

Me: You're doing well, I hope?

Naraneel: I am, thank you. And how are you today?

Me: Oh, well, I'm doing just fine. Thank you. Are you ready to get started?

Naraneel: Absolutely.

M: Alrighty.

   What is your full name? And do you have a nickname?

N: My full name is Naraneel Balent Frawn. *Chuckles* I have many nicknames. But my most common one is Naran. 

M: Good job. Next question. 

   What is your hair and eye color?

N: My hair is dark brown. *Smiles* People have actually called it dirt brown before. 

M: Really?

N: Yes, really. There's a funny story behind that, but there isn't time to tell it here. And my eyes are dark blue, to answer the rest of your question. 

M: Ah. You're being very cooperative so far. 

N: I'm glad to hear that.

M: *Smiles gleefully at character* Here's the next question.

   What kind of distinguishing facial features do you have?

N: I have a scruffy beard. And rather large ears. But aside from that, there's nothing I can think of. 

M: You're ears aren't big. 

N: *Laughs* I've always thought they were/ 

M: Well, I disagree with that. Let's see what's next....

  Do you have a birthmark and/or scars? Where are they located?

N: I have yet to find a birthmark. But I do have a few scars in various places.

M: And how did you get those? 

N: *Shrugs* Through different fights and battles and other things like that. Some by doing crazy things with my brother that I wouldn't recommend repeating. 

M: *Laughs* 

   Who are your friends, family and those closest to you? Who do you wish was closer to you?

N: I have a lot of "friends", you might say. I am privileged to have a few good, close ones though. Like I said earlier, I have a brother, and he has a son. And my father and mother died awhile back.

M: I'm sorry to hear that. 

N: Oh, it's alright. They both lived good, long lives. The Redeemer was ready for them to come home, so that's where they went. 

M: *Smiles softly* It's so nice to have that assurance. 

N: Yes, it is. And there are always people I wish I was closer to. 

M: Interesting answer. Now, let's see what's next...

   Where were you born? Where have you lived since then, and where do you call home right now?

N: Well, I was born in...

M: Wait!

N: *Looks questioningly at writer* 

M: Let's not mention where you were born. How about we just move on to the other part of the question?

N: That's fine with me. I've lived all over Northworld since the time I left home. And right now... *Chuckles* I'm still living all over Northworld. 

M: Haven't found a place to settle down yet?

N: No, I suppose not. 

M: Good answer. 

  Where do you go when you're angry?

N: *Smiles* Those are as varied as the places I live. I usually go somewhere quiet, to think over what made me angry and why. 

M: Another good answer. And now we're getting into the hard questions... 

   What is your biggest fear? Who have you told this to? Who would you never tell this to? Why? 

You don't have to be very specific about the first part. No one before you really has. 

N: That doesn't surprise me. I know what they're all like. But to be honest, I have a lot of fears. A lot of very real fears. I've told them to a few people, mostly the good close friends I mentioned earlier. *Laughs* There are a lot of people I wouldn't tell my biggest fear to. 

M: Ah yes, I'm sure. 

   Do you have a secret?

N: *Laughs again* You were right. It looks like we have reached the hard questions. Yes, I do have a secret. More like a lot of secrets. Do I have to tell what they are?

M: If you weren't being so wonderfully cooperative, I might make you. But you are, so no. You don't have to tell me. 

N: *Smiles* Thank you. 

M: The next one is...

   What makes you laugh out loud?

N: Hmm... That is kind of a hard question, when you think about it. I laugh at a few things. Silly things that normal people probably don't laugh at. 

M: Like...?

N: Simple things that I used to take for granted. Like children when they're continually prattling on about something, or those occasional moments when you really connect with someone and you're having a grand time with them. Those are my favorite things to laugh at and be happy about. I hope that makes sense.  

M: It makes sense to me. *Grins*

    Have you ever been in love? Have you ever had a broken heart?

N: I've been in love once. A long time ago. Yes, I've had my heart broken plenty of times. 

M: Thank you for being honest.

   What kind of food do you have right now? What's on your bedroom floor? On your night-table? In your garbage?

N: I have a lot of different kinds of food. Somethings from places outside of the Ten Isles, somethings from inside. On the floor of the ship cabin that is currently my bedroom, I have some clothing, some maps, some parchment, a few chests. On my night-table I have some parchment, a few books, some quill pens, a few bottles of ink. In my garbage I have a lot of paper and old crusty bits of food. 

M: Yuck...

   What shoes are you wearing right now? What do you usually wear?

N: That's an odd question. 

M: *Mutters* Not with someone like Brutan. 

N: That's a very good point. Right now I'm wearing boots. Normally I wear boots, but sometimes I'll wear sandals or something else. It all depends on where I'm at. 

M: Alright.

   When you think of the kitchen in your house,(or whatever kitchen you happen to be using at the time) what smell do you associate with it?

N: *Chuckles* Again, this depends on where I'm at. I mostly think of heavy spices. 

M: Do you spend a lot of time in the East. 

N: Yes, I do.

M: Okay. I think we're almost done, by the way. 

    You're doing an intense cleaning of you room. What is easy for you to throw out? What is difficult for you to part with? Why?

N: I could stand to get rid of a lot of the junk I carry with me. *Sighs* But there are a lot of little things that I would have a hard time getting rid of. 

M: Anything specific?

N: Oh, just silly sentimental things that have no apparent value. There's an old piece of ribbon, and an old worn journal to name a few. 

M: I understand what you mean. I have a lot of things like that. *Smiles*

   What do you do Last-day at noon?

N: I try to relax and think over the week. I try to remember what went well with it and what didn't and how I could have avoided or prevented that. Of course, that doesn't always happen, but I try my best to do it whenever I can. 

M: That's a very good idea, Naraneel. 

N: Why, thank you. I can't take any credit for it, though. A good man I once knew told me about it, and I took it from him.

M: Ah. Good to know.

    What is one strong memory that has stuck with you from childhood? Why is it so powerful and lasting?

N: Ahh... That would be the day Zaien came to the Village. He was the one that started me on the path I'm on today, that told me the beginnings of what I needed to know. I don't think I can ever forget seeing him step off of that ship and onto the dock, head held high, eyes glowing with knowledge. His arrival changed my life forever.

M: *Blinks* Wow. That was an excellent answer. Th-thank you. 

N: *Grins* You're welcome.

M: Ahem. What's next on the list... Oh! This is the last question!

   You're getting ready for a night out. Where are you going? What do you wear? Who will you be with?

N: I might be going to meet with a merchant or some other person who could help me in my travels. I'd wear something nice, practical, presentable. I would likely be going with my close friends, along with whoever told me about this new person in the first place. So we've reached the end of this interview?

M: Yes, we have. Before you go, I would like to try and express just how much I appreciate how cooperative you were. *Laughs* No one else was, so it really means a lot.

N: I always try my best to cooperate with people. Especially with people who have power, such as yourselves. 

M: Ha, I guess I do have power. But really, thank you for agreeing to do this. 

N: Thank you for letting me. I had a nice time spending time with you and the readers. *Smiles at writer and readers*

M: I certainly had a nice time with you as well. Have a good day, Naraneel.

N: Same to you. Wamareck.

M: Wamareck.

Tada!!! We're all finished!! Wowzers, thanks for sticking through all of these with me. Before I start in on the little series about our trip to the coast (which I'm planning on making much smaller than I had originally intended for all of your sake's, haha), I was thinking I miiiiight have a fanfic to post next week. That is, of course, if I manage to finish it in that time. It should be relatively short, and it's another Big Hero 6 fanfiction. Yes, another one. A day may come when I get over that movie... But it is not this day. 

   So, yeah. And on a side note, I've been slowly writing this six part Merlin fanfiction for the last few months or so. Would anyone be interested in reading that? Or is that just too much, hehheh.... 

   Again, sorry this is late! Hopefully that won't happen anymore. And thanks again for reading! Farewell, readers.

MR

   

   

   

    

   

Character Interviews Week 3: Loorarc.

Heyloo readers!!
   Ah yes, here we are at our third week of character interviews. I don't know about y'all, but I've had a lot of fun writing these. It's kind of a nice change of pace from trying to subtly insert all of these character threads into the story to just, er, saying it. If that makes absolutely any sense...
   But yeah. This week's character is Loorarc. He is Brutan's good friend and hope you all enjoy learning about him because heisoneofmysweetbabies,okay.
   *Clears throat* This is an old picture, and I don't really like it, but the other one I drew.... No. Nonononono. So here it is.

Okey-dokey! Let us dive directly in to this thing with out further pomp and to-do.


Me: Hello Loorarc!
Loorarc: *Tips head and smiles a little* Hello.
Me: Are you doing alright today?
Loorarc: Yeah.
Me: Okay. That's good, that's good. You ready to start?
Loorarc: I'm ready.
Me: *Smiles* Great. Here's the first question...
   What is your full name? And do you have a nickname?
L: My name is Loorarc Varquery. My nickname is Rar.
M: Who calls you that?
L: ... What do you mean?
M: I mean, who calls you Rar? Your friends, your family?
L: Well, um, everyone kind of does. Loorarc is a bit of a mouthful, you know. *Stares at writer*
M: I know, I know. I still like it though. Next question.
   What is your hair and eye color?
L: My hair is black and my eyes are blue.
M:  What color of blue?
L: I, I don't know. Is that even one of the questions? *Tries to take paper from writer*
M: *Wrenches paper away* It's not, but I thought the readers would like to know. Now, what shade of blue are your eyes?
L: I guess they're kind of a light blue. Is that better, oh Great Writer?
M: *Glares* Yes, it is. Next question.
   What kind of distinguishing facial features do you have?
L: Apparently my light blue eyes.
M: *Growls* Aside from that, Loorarc.
L: *Smirks* I don't think I have anything. But does the writer disagree?
M: No, I do not. You're about to have a bruise the size of my fist on your cheek, though. Let's move on.
   Do you have a birthmark and/or scars? Where are they located?
L: Um, no I don't have either.
M: You do have a birthmark somewhere though, right?
L: I probably do...
M: Yup. Now let's see...
   Who are your friends, family and those closest to you? Who do you wish was closer to you?
L: My friends are Brutan and, um... A few other people. I have my mother, Caressa, and my sister, Neena. I don't really wish anyone was closer to me.
M: Are you sure?
L: Uh, yeah. I am.
M: Okay, okay.
   Where were you born? Where have you lived since then, and where do you call home right now?
L: I was born in the Village. I've lived there my entire life, but right now... I'm not sure where I call home to be honest.
M: That's a good answer, Rar.
  Where do you go when you're angry?
L: I, I don't know. A lot of places.
M: Name a few.
L: I go to the forest sometimes. I might take a walk... It just kind of depends.
M: Alright. Good enough.
     What is your biggest fear? Who have you told this to? Who would you never tell this to? Why?
L: Wait just a minute. You didn't say there were questions like this on here.
M: I didn't think I needed to.
L: Why is that on here?
M: ...Because this questionnaire is for the readers to get to know you better. And this question will help with that. So, go ahead and answer it.
L: No.
M:  Excuse me?
L: I don't want to answer it.
M: *Moans and buries head in hands* Please just answer it.  Please.
L: What's your deepest fear?
M: *Looks up*  What?
L: I said, what's your deepest fear?
M: *Stares at character*
L: Not so fun when you have to answer it yourself, is it?
M: *Grunts* Fair point. You win, Rar. You don't have to answer this one.
L: Thank you. Now what's next?
M: Umm...
  Do you have a secret?
L: You can't be serious.
M: Oh, come on! This isn't that hard! Just answer yes or no.
L: Fine. Yes, I do.
M: *Mumbles under breath about stubborn, ridiculous characters* Here's an easier one.
    What makes you laugh out loud?
L: Umm... I don't know, Funny stuff, I guess...?
M: That's not gonna work.
L: Well then... If you tripped on something I would laugh. Hard.
M: *Blinks* I don't believe this.
L: If anyone tripped over something I would probably laugh. So don't feel too bad.
M: I think you'd like slapstick comedy.
L: What kind of comedy?
M: Slapstick. It's kind of like people tripping over things and doing crazy and hysterical stunts. Things like that.
L: Okay. I believe I would.
M: Next question...
   Have you ever been in love? Have you ever had a broken heart?
L: I've never been in love.
M: And?
L: And what?
M: *Sighs* Have you ever had a broken heart? You've got to answer the whole question.
L: *Shrugs* I don't know.
M: *Slams fists against table* Will you just give me an honest answer?!?!?!?
L: Alright, alright! Yeah, I've had a broken heart. Does that make you feel any better?
   *Pause*
M: *Sighs again* I'm sorry, Rar. I shouldn't have yelled at you.
L: It's fine.
M: No, it's not. I'm really sorry, okay?
L: *Smiles a little* Okay. It really is fine, though.
M: *Smiles back* Whatever you say, I guess... Let's keep moving on.
   What kind of food do you have right now? What's on your bedroom floor? On your night-table? In your garbage?
L: Food? I don't really know. *Grins* That's my mother's job. And I've got a lot on my floor. There's a lot of clothes, and... Just a bunch of stuff really. Same with my garbage. There's some paper and other things you'd normally find in there.
M: Alright.
   What shoes are you wearing right now? What do you usually wear?
L: Right now I'm wearing a pair of black boots. I actually don't really wear anything but boots, to be honest. At least I wear more than one of pair of boots, unlike someone I know...
M: *Grins* That is a good thing. A very, very good thing.
   When you think of the kitchen in your house, what smell do you associate with it?
L: *Thinks* Rashaberry pie. My mother really does make the best rashaberry pie I have ever eaten. And it always makes the kitchen smells so good. *Smiles wistfully*
M: That sounds good.
   You're doing an intense cleaning of you room. What is easy for you to throw out? What is difficult for you to part with? Why?
L: I wouldn't really have a difficult time getting rid of anything. There, there are a few things my father gave me that I would never give up.
M: Of course. We're nearly finished, by the way.
L: Thank the Redeemer...
M: For Millie's sake, you and Brutan...
   What do you do Last-day at noon?
L: Hmm...Sometimes I wander around. I might take a walk in the forest. I'll probably be more likely to be Training or eating lunch at that time.
 M: Good answer.
   What is one strong memory that has stuck with you from childhood? Why is it so powerful and lasting?
L: Can I skip this one too?
M: No Rar, you can't. You can choose any strong memory from your childhood. It doesn't have to be the strongest one.
L: *Sighs* Alright. One of my strongest childhood memories is when I shot my first negla in the forest. My father took me hunting one evening, neither of us expecting to get anything... But there it was. A negla just a few paces away, practically begging one of us to take it down. So my father let me. I, I really think that was one of the best moments in my life. *Chuckles sheepishly*
M: *Smiles fondly at character* Here's the last question!
  You're getting ready for a night out. Where are you going? What do you wear? Who will you be with?

L: Uh, I'd probably be forced to wear my dress clothes. And I'd probably be going to a banquet, with a bunch of Learners and my family. 

M: You guys don't get out much, huh? 

L: *Blinks* What's that supposed to mean? 

M: Nothing, nothing. Well Rar, we're all finished!

L: I can't believe I survived that. 

M: *Rolls eyes* It wasn't that bad. 

L: Whatever you want to tell yourself. *Grins* I guess I'll talk to you later, oh Great Writer. *Bows mockingly* 

M: I guess so, oh Impossible Character. Thank you for being mostly cooperative. 

L: Not a problem. *Waves awkwardly at readers* Wamareck everyone. 

Whoo!! That took me an unexpectedly long time. And it's late, so I hope it's not too horrible and that you enjoyed yourself a little. Next week's interview is with Naraneel, and it's the LAST ONE!!! So I hope to see you all there. Have a wonderful week!

MR

Character Interviews Week 2: Breeta

  Agh!! This is late! I am so sorry! I sat down to write this post last night, and my internet refused to work. It was pretty late, I hadn't finished drawing the character picture for this week, so I made the decision to just do it tomorrow. So here we are!
   To start, here's my drawing of Breeta:

   I had a whole different picture I was going to be posting, but it WAS NOT WORKING. AT ALL. So I had to start over last night. ((Weee....)) Which is the reason it is so messy.

Well then, let's jump into this!

Me: Readers, meet Breeta!! *Smiles widely at character*
Breeta: *Smiles widely back and waves enthusiastically at readers* Hi everyone!!
Me: How is the day treating you, Breeta?
Breeta: Wonderful! I've had a really great day. And how about you?
Me: I'm doing wonderful as well. Are you ready to get started with this character interview?
Breeta: Oh yes!! I've been looking forward to this since you told me about it. Let's get started!
M: Alrighty then. Here's the first question:
  What is your full name? And do you have a nickname?
B: My full name is Breeta Valliny Kap. Um, I don't really have any nicknames. A few of my friends call me Bree sometimes, but that's about it.
M: That's right.
   What is your hair and eye color?
B: My hair is red and my eyes are green. Well actually, my hair is more of a dark auburn color. *Plays with strand of hair*
M: Yes, it is. It's wavy, too. Now let's see...
   What kind of distinguishing facial features do you have?
B: Freckles! *Giggles* I have a lot of freckles.
M: You have big eyes, too. And a little button nose. And a huge smile.
B: I guess I have those too. *Smiles*
M: *Smiles back*
   Do you have a birthmark and/or scars? Where are they located.
B: Well, I don't have any scars. And I have a birthmark on my elbow. *Holds up elbow*
M: Huh. Interesting. I didn't know that... Well then, let's move on
   Who are your friends, family and those closest to you? Who do you wish was closer to you?
B: Well, my best friends are Brutan, Gvenney and Dramduel. I'm actually an orphan, so I don't have any family that I know of. And there are a few people I wish were closer to me.
M: Like who?
B: *Laughs nervously and shrugs* No one in particular, really.
M: *Narrows eyes at character*
B: *Fidgets nervously but remains silent*
M: Humph. Next question.
   Where were you born? Where have you lived since then, and where do you call home right now?
B: *Laughs again* I don't know where I was born. All I know is that one of the Sea Traders brought me to the Village on their ship, took me to the Memorial Orphanage, and that's where I've lived ever since.
M: Good answer.
  Where do you go when you're angry?
B: When I'm angry? *Giggles* I don't really know. I guess sometimes I go up to the orphanage roof. But I go there all of the time, so I don't think that really counts.
M: I think it does. Though usually, you give everyone a piece of your mind when your mad, then you leave unashamed with your head held high. Am I right?
B: *Smirks* That's right. So I don't usually need to go anywhere to let off my anger.
M: *Grins and shakes head* Oh, Breeta... Onto the next question. Hehheh, this is a good one.
    What is your biggest fear? Who have you told this to? Who would you never tell this to? Why?
B: *Blinks* Deepest fear? Well, haha, I'm not sure.
M: Come on, Breeta. It's okay. *Smiles reassuringly*
B: *Shrugs and rolls eyes* *Puts on smile* I really don't have one.
M: I think you forget who you're speaking to. I did write you, remember that.
B: Well then, you know I don't have one. Don't you? *Raises eyebrow*
M: *Runs fingers through hair* For Millie's sake, why can't I get any of you to answer these silly questions?! If you refuse to tell the readers what your deepest fear is, please kindly answer the rest of the question.
B: *Grins* I can do that. I've told some of my friends my deepest fear. I wouldn't really want to tell it to a stranger though. *Glances apologetically at the readers and writer* Sorry!
M: *Sighs* I understand. Let's see what's next...
    Do you have a secret?
B: *Thinks* You know, I don't really think so. I'm a pretty open girl.
M: *Mutters* Pretty open about things except for your deepest fear.
B: Yup. That's right.
M: *Snorts*
   What makes you laugh out loud?
B: Lots of things! *Giggles* I'm a pretty happy girl, too!
M: *Grins* That you are.
    Have you ever been in love? Have you ever had a broken heart?
B: Oh, not really.
M: About which? Being in love or having a broken heart/
B: Both.
M: More lies, Breeta? Really?
B: Whaddya mean? I've never been truly in love with anyone, and, and I've never head a broken heart before.
M: Breeta, come now. We've all had a broken heart before. Maybe not over a lover, but over something. Right?
B: *Slowly nods* I suppose that's true. I have had a broken hear, thent.
M: What have you had a broken heart over?
B: Wait a moment. That wasn't part of the question.
M: That is irrelevant. I am the writer, and thus you have to obey me.
B: *Smirks again* Oh, really?
M: *Rolls eyes and shakes head* Who am I kidding, you guys never listen to me... Let's move on.
   What kind of food do you have right now? What's on your bedroom floor? On your night-table? In your garbage?
B: The food we get at the orphanage depends on the season. But we usually get vegetables, and a lot of food from Gvenney's mother. On my bedroom floor, I have... *Begins counting on fingers* Lots of clothes, some bags, some paper, lots of books, a rug, a little chest, and I think that's it. On my night-table I have even more books. And in my garbage? Mostly paper. I think they're might be some food in there as well.
M: Nicely done.
   What shoes are you wearing right now? What do you usually wear?
B: Weeelll, right now I'm wearing a pair of little brown shoes. I usually wear shoes like this, sandals, or boots. But I prefer to go barefooted.
M: Hehheh, me too. *Smiles*
   When you think of the kitchen in your house (or orphanage), what smell do you associate with it?
B: Hmm... Warm, fresh bread and cheese. And sometimes stew to go with it.
M: Yummy.
    You're doing an intense cleaning of you room. What is easy for you to throw out? What is difficult for you to part with? Why?
B: Oo, I don't think it would be easy for me to get rid of anything, actually. I have a strong emotional bond with everything I own *Grins*
M: You certainly take after me more than I care to admit.
    What do you do Last-day at noon?
B: *Sighs wistfully* I like to sit on my spot on the Orphanage roof and read a good book. Or watch all of the people as they walk by. Or take a trip to the Market and get some dinner, or take a walk through the forest. I like to do a lot of things at that time.
M: It's a good time to do things. We're nearly finished, by the way.
B: Oh! I was really enjoying this!
M: *Grins* I'm glad you are!
   What is one strong memory that has stuck with you from childhood? Why is it so powerful and lasting?
B: *Considers* I really think the night I first sneaked out of the orphanage window and looked up at the stars has really stuck with me. I just really love the stars, and, and I like to think about where they come from and why they're there, and to just think about life in general. And that night was the first time I really got to do that.
M: Good answer, Breeta. And we've reached the last question! Here it goes.
   You're getting ready for a night out. Where are you going? What do you wear? Who will you be with?
B: Sounds like fun! Welp, I'm not sure where I'd be going. Probably somewhere with the rest of the Learners and Brutan. I would definitely be be wearing something fancy. Probably my green, red, and brown dress. So, that was the last one?
M: *Nods* Yes, it was. Thank you for agreeing to do this, Breeta!
B: Oh, thank you for asking me! I had a TON of fun! And thank you, readers! *Waves to readers again* I hope to see you all again soon! Wamareck, everyone.
M: Wamareck, Breeta.

And thus our second week of character interviews is concluded. I hope you all enjoyed getting to know Breeta a little bit. Next week we have Loorarc, and after that there's only one more left!
   On that note: as I said last week, my family and I went on vacation to the Washington coast. And it was AMAZING. I cannot even begin to tell you how much I loved it. But I thought I would have a pretty good shot at it if I did another blog series on it. This series would include A BLESSED TON of pictures, some thoughts and words and humor, and EVEN MORE PICTURES. This is going to happen the week after my last character interview, and will take up a few weeks. I might do different posts in between (some of which might include a fanfic...?), but I might not. I'm just gonna kind of wing this one.
   But it is time for me to leave! Have a wonderful week, readers!

MR

 
 

A Short Interlude

Ahoy, readers!!!
   Wowzers, I'm putting up a blog post early! Is the world coming to an end?!?!?!?!
   Well, I don't think so. But I am going on vacation!! To the coast!!! In, like, seven hours!!!! And I'm really excited, if you couldn't tell from all of the exclamation marks, haha! XD
   All this to say, I won't be posting on Monday. If I had any kind of a brain, I would have just gotten my character interview ready to post today so I wouldn't have to wait until next week. But I completely spaced it. So, I will have the interview with my dearest Breeta ready to post a week from this coming Monday!! And maybe some super awesome pictures, if y'all would like to see them. :)
   I kind of feel bad about leaving you guys with this pathetic post, so I am going to share with you all a song I found that fits perfectly with two of my characters; Brutan and Loorarc specifically. It's called "Fix You" by Coldplay, and when I first heard it, I just kind of... Freaked out. Because it is SO PREFECT for them! ((I'm going to put up an interview with Rar in a few weeks so you can get to know him better))
   Go ahead and have a listen, if you feel so inclined...

   So, on this vacation, I'm planning on doing a lot of drawing and fanfic writing and picture taking. And I'm think about doing, em, a "blog post series" on all of those things after the character interviews. If I even end up getting any work done, hehheh. 

   But, I hope you all have a great couple of weeks doing whatever it is you're doing! I'm certainly planning on it! :D Until next time...

   

MR

 

Character Interviews Week 1: Brutan

Hellohello!!
   Here we go, the first week of my character interviews!! I must confess, I am a little excited to do this, teehee. :D So, I'm not going to beat around the bush like I normally do.
   To start things off, here is my illustration/sketch of Brutan

   ((It's not very good, but I need to learn to live with not being satisfied with my art, so... *Shrugs*))

Now let's jump into this thing!!

  Me:  *Shuffles papers* *Smiles excitedly*
   I would like to introduce you all to Brutan, my main character!!
Brutan: *Smiles and nods head cordially* Hello.
Me: How are you doing today?
Brutan: I'm doing fine. You?
Me: Good! I'm doing great!
   *Clears throat* Are you ready to start, Brutan?
Brutan: I think so...
M: Alright! Let's go!!!
   First question: What is your full name? And do you have a nickname?
B: Well, my full name is Brutan Alendaar Frawn. And I don't really have any nicknames.
M: *Glares* I think we both know that's not true.
B: *Sighs* Fine. Some of my friends call me Bru.
M: *Continues to glare*
B: *Groans* AndmymothercallsmeBruey-Bear. Does that make you feel better?
M: Absolutely. Now for the next question
  What is your hair and eye color?
B: My hair is dark brown and my eyes are blue.
M: Very good.
   What kind of distinguishing facial features do you have (Not including scars)?
B: Umm... I don't think I have any, really. Do I?
M: *Shakes head* Not really. You are considered pretty handsome among the female Villagers though, are you not?
B: ... What?
M: Next question.
B: Wait a minute!
M: *Ignores Brutan*
   Do you have a birthmark and/or any scars? Where are they located?
B: I, uh, have a scar on my face, and a few on my shoulders, chest, and back. And I'm sure I have a birthmark somewhere. *Laughs*
M: *Smiles*
   Who are your friends, family and those closest to you? Who do you wish was closer to you?
B: My friends are Breeta, Dramduel, Gvenney, and... Loorarc. My family consists of my mother and father. I don't have any siblings, but I do have a...
M: You aren't supposed to mention that!!!! Remember??
B: *Blinks* Oh yeah, I forgot. Sorry...
M: It's fine, haha... So, is there someone you wish you were closer to?
B: *Considers* Not really.
M: Alrighty.
   Where were you born? Where have you lived since then, and where do you call home right now?
B: I was born in the Village on the Isle of Un Tornun and I've lived there my entire life, and still do.
M: Let's see... Hmm, this is a good one for you.
   Where do you go when you're angry?
B: Sometimes I go... Wait, what do you mean this is a good one for me?
M: I don't know. I just thought it was, is all. Now answer the question.
B: Just wait a moment-!
M: No. Answer the question
B: *Growls* Fine then. I usually go the old shipyard on the outskirts of the Village. Sometimes I go to this spot Loorarc and I have in the forest. It just depends on the day. And what made me angry.
M: There. That wasn't so hard, was it? Oh, this is a pretty deep one...
   What is your biggest fear? Who have you told this to? Who would you never tell this to? Why?
B: That's more than one question. Can I just answer one?
M: No, answer them all.
B: Do I really have to? *Stares pleadingly at writer*
M: *Buries head in hands* Stop being difficult and answer the questions, will you???
B: Alright, alright!! My biggest fear is... I don't know. I, I would hate to lose someone close to me, and I don't want to fail them either. I guess that would be it...
M: Close enough. Next ones.
B: *Chuckles* I don't really talk about my deepest, darkest fears with anyone. And who would I never tell this too..? Oh, for Millie's sake, I don't know! Can't I skip just this one?
M: *Sighs* Go ahead...
B: Thank you.
M: *Grunts* Let's just move onto the next question.
   Do you have a secret?
B: *Snorts* Do I have a secret? Do I have a secret?? *Laughs at this for a few moments*
M: C'mon Brutan...
B: *Takes a breath* Okay, okay... Yes, I certainly do have a secret.
M: Ha, looks like we might have already answered this next one.
   What makes you laugh out loud?
B: Well, I usually do laugh at stuff like that. I suppose you would say I laugh at irony.
M: Indeed you do.
  Have you ever been in love? Have you ever had a broken heart?
B: I've never really been in love. So I've never had a broken heart over that.
M: But you have had a broken heart, haven't you?
B: Um, well... maybe? What's the next question?
M: *Shakes head*
   What is in your, em... What kind of food do you have right now? What's on your bedroom floor? On your night-table? In your garbage?
B: We have negla, rashaberries, vegetables, bread... The usual. I'm sure I probably have clothes on my floor, maybe some paper. On my night-table I have paper too, a candle, a dagger. I might have more, but I can't remember any of it.
M: That's just fine.
   What shoes are you wearing right now? What do you usually wear?
B: *Lifts up feet to reveal raggedy pair of leather boots* I wear these. Always.
M: Oh yes, you most definitely do. *Grimaces* You probably should get a new pair...
B: Don't even think about it.
M: Okay, I won't. I wouldn't want to incur your wrath or anything....
   When you think of the kitchen in your house, what smell do you associate with it?
B: *Thinks* I have to just choose one smell?
M: Nah, just try to narrow it down to, let's say three.
B: Alright.... I think of fresh bread, burning logs in the hearth, and sweet biscuits.
M: You're making me hungry. *Grins*
   You're doing an intense cleaning of you room. What is easy for you to throw out? What is difficult for you to part with? Why?
B: Hmmm... I wouldn't mind getting rid of my dress clothes. *Laughs* I wouldn't want to get rid of anything out of my chest, or my boots.
M: I think we've already established that...
B: *Ignores writer* Why? I hate my dress clothes, my chest has things that I've grown attached to, and no other pair of boots can ever replace these ones.
M: You know, why is that? Why are you so unwilling to give those old things up.
B: You wrote me, for Millie's sake. I would think you'd know the answer to something like that.
M: Whatever, boulder-head.
   What do you do, um, Last-day at noon?
B: That depends on the day. I'll usually be eating lunch, or Training, or helping my father at the shipyard.
M: Okey doke. We're almost done here!
B: I thought it would never end.
M: Oh, hush up.
   What is one strong memory that has stuck with you from childhood? Why is it so powerful and lasting? (Just pick the first one that comes to your mind.)
B: That would probably be the day my dog died. He was this giant thing that was always willing to protect me and always wanted to play. He finally just got too old and couldn't take care of the both of us anymore...
M: *Smiles fondly at Brutan* Last question.
   You're getting ready for a night out. Where are you going? What do you wear? Who will you be with?
B: In all likelihood I'd be going to a banquet. I'd wear my dress clothes, and I'd be with my family. Did you say that was the last question?
M: Yup!!
B: *Sighs in relief* Finally.
M: *Rolls eyes* Thank you for mostly cooperating, Brutan. Hopefully the next three won't be as horrid as you.
B: I wasn't quite that bad.
M: Humph. I think you were.... Anyway, I'll see you later! Don't get yourself into anymore trouble.
B: That you will. And I'll try my hardest. It's not like I go looking for trouble or anything... *Waves to readers* Wamareck+, everyone.

Thank you all for pushing through this incredibly long post!!!!!! I hope you enjoyed getting to know my main character a little. If you have any questions about him or my story, feel free to ask! Just be prepared for a long answer, haha!
   Next week I'm going to be interviewing Breeta. I think you'll all really like her. :) So, until then, dearest readers, have a wonderful week!! Enjoy your summer break while it lasts, create something, take a walk. Live a little!

MR

+Wamareck means "Redeemer guide you" in the old language of the Villagers. 

Character Introductions!!!

*Mimics fanfare* Doo-do-da-dooooo!! I'm back! :D
   So I've seen a few other authors do character interviews on their blogs before. Like, when you take your characters from your novel or fanfiction or whatever you're writing on and give them questions to answer. I've always thought it looked super fun, and that is why I'm going to give it a shot.
   Basic overview of this thing: once a week on my usual blog posting time for the next four weeks I'm going to post an interview with one of four selected characters. These interviews will consist of an illustration of this character (drawn by meeeee) along with the interview itself and probably a lot of sarcasm depending on who I'm interviewing. So in case you follow me on Pinterest ((which you probably do, since that's where like, 90% of my views come from)) and you've been wondering who in the world these characters are, here's your chance to get to know them!
   The four characters I will be interviewing, along with some photos/people that look similar to them are....
   1st week: Brutan, my main character

Image taken from Pinterest

 











   2nd week: Breeta, one of Brutan's friends

Image taken from Pinterest

   

















3rd week: Loorarc, another one of his friends

Image taken from Pinterest

   












4th week: Naraneel, a mentor of Brutan and Breeta's that doesn't really come into play into later on in the first book. ((But he plays a pretty big part in the rest of the series, so I guess he's kind of one of my main characters....))

Image taken from Pinterest

There you go! My characters that you'll be getting to know in these next few weeks. :) And now I'm going to share with you the questions I'll be asking (adjusted into interview form, of course) :

Gotham Character Questionnaire

(This was taken from here)

• What is your characters name? Does the character have a nickname?
• What is your characters hair color? Eye color?
• What kind of distinguishing facial features does your character have?
• Does your character have a birthmark? Where is it? What about scars? How did he get them?
• Who are your characters friends and family? Who does she surround herself with? Who are the people your character is closest to? Who does he wish he were closest to?
• Where was your character born? Where has she lived since then? Where does she call home?
• Where does your character go when hes angry?
• What is her biggest fear? Who has she told this to? Who would she never tell this to? Why?
• Does she have a secret?
• What makes your character laugh out loud?
• When has your character been in love? Had a broken heart?

• What is in your characters refrigerator right now? On her bedroom floor? On her nightstand? In her garbage can?
• Look at your characters feet. Describe what you see there. Does he wear dress shoes, gym shoes, or none at all? Is he in socks that are ratty and full of holes? Or is he wearing a pair of blue and gold slippers knitted by his grandmother?
• When your character thinks of her childhood kitchen, what smell does she associate with it? Sauerkraut? Oatmeal cookies? Paint? Why is that smell so resonant for her?
• Your character is doing intense spring cleaning. What is easy for her to throw out? What is difficult for her to part with? Why?
• Its Saturday at noon. What is your character doing? Give details. If hes eating breakfast, what exactly does he eat? If shes stretching out in her backyard to sun, what kind of blanket or towel does she lie on?
• What is one strong memory that has stuck with your character from childhood? Why is it so powerful and lasting?
• Your character is getting ready for a night out. Where is she going? What does she wear? Who will she be with?

So yeah. These'll be fun. :) 

Before I sign off for the week, I thought I'd give you an update on how my book, The Secret Key, is going. As of right now I have 56,588 words, 86 pages (that's in 12 point Times New Roman font with no line spacing) and 15 chapters. I'm thinking it's going to be about 29 chapters total, so I believe I can safely conclude that it's going to be a big book. I have yet to figure out if it's any good or not....

   Thanks for pushing through this large ramble of a post, and I hope to see you next week and the weeks following for these character interviews, dearest reader. :)

MR

 

Ze Book Excerpt!!!

Greetings all!!!!
Shhhoooo, here's the excerpt to my book I said I would be posting!! Well, I really shouldn't be posting it until next week, since I'm not yet to the halfway mark. But I really was sick of putting it off, and I only have a chapter to go. So here it is!

   Allow me to give you a brief summary of my novel. First off, it's called The Secret Key, book one in the "Shadow's Bane" books and the genre is Christian Fantasy. These are both tentative titles, but I really do like them thus far! The story itself is a first person narrative of a young man named Brutan. The village where he lives (which is actually called the Village, heehee), is in the center of an uprising darkness. His father along with his mentor the Master Trainer, recruit Brutan, his best friend Loorarc, and three other young people of the Village to help protect it: Dramduel the blacksmith's son, Gvenney the baker's daughter, and Breeta the orphan girl. They are the beginnings of what the Master Trainer and Brutan's father have dubbed Home Defense. And so basically they have to try and figure each other out while trying to piece together what's going on, and Brutan is trying to help Loorarc and Breeta and everyone else all while trying to save the Village and keep himself from falling apart in the process.
   All this to say, I have obviously never written a summary of my book before. And I need to work on that. But if you want more info you can go check out my boards on Pinterest. I have a lot of boards in general, but I also have a lot for my books. So yeah....
   *Clears throat* How about I just dive into the excerpt and if you have any questions you can ask me?
   I have decided to share a scene that I am rather proud of. It's this Training scene that involves all of the Home Defense "recruits" I guess you would call them. (Training as this special, er, program that the Village has for teaching young people the art of swordfighting and such.) The beginning is a little abrupt because it's in the middle of a chapter.
 Comments and critiques are welcome! And in a word of warning, this is the very-first-super-rough draft. So just be prepared to groan and grimace a little. But without further rambling, here it is!

The Secret Key Excerpt
Copyright Maggie Rice.

 “So, why exactly are we here?” Breeta asked. “You didn't just summon us in the middle of the night to apologize, did you?”

I shook my head. “No, I didn't. And it's not exactly the middle of the night.”

Breeta rolled her eyes at this.

“But even if it was, what we're going to do would be worth it.”

I grinned at the mixture of eagerness and curiosity on each of their faces. I began to pace back and forth in front of them with my hands clasped behind my back, putting on a serious look.

“We don't usually do this until later on in your Training. But considering that the three of you are older than the average Learner and you're all doing very well, I thought we could give it a shot. This does require a fair amount of agility and cunning, speed and stamina, strength and stealth. You might not be up to the challenge yet, but I thought...”

“Come on Brutan!” Breeta exclaimed. “We're ready for whatever challenge you give us.”

I tried to cover my returning grin by raising an eyebrow. “Are you sure? Gvenney and Dramduel, are you sure you're up to this challenge?”

They both nodded their heads, Gvenney smiling eagerly.

I shrugged. “If you're all going to be stubborn, then okay. But don't say I didn't warn you.”

Gvenney did look a little worried at that, but Breeta's eyes lit up. Dramduel had a good idea of what was happening from talking to the young Learners of the Village, but he didn't spoil it for the girls.

“Did any of you notice that red flag hanging there?” I asked them, pointing to a red strip of cloth suspended from the grated roof of the the Arena.

“I did.” Breeta said.

“So did I.” Replied Gvenney.

“You're goal is to get that red flag.” I continued.

Breeta snorted. “That won't be hard. I can reach it without even standing on my toes.”

“You could,” I continued. “That would be easy enough. But this is supposed to be a challenge. You have to retrieve the flag while getting past all eight of the Trainers with nothing but your sword. Oh, and you'll also have to watch out for certain obstacles that have been set up along the way.”

“What obstacles?” Breeta asked, glancing around the empty room.

“They haven't been set up yet. That would be too easy.” I bit back a grin. These night time sessions were always the best part of Training. Breeta looked like she was about to burst from excitement as did Dramduel and myself too, I was sure. Gvenney looked mostly anxious.

“Here are your swords,” I said, grabbing them from the bench they were sitting on and tossing them to each of the Learners.

“We're not going to have any armor?” Gvenney asked with obvious concern.

“Nope. But the Healer is here in case someone gets hurt.”

Gvenney gasped, but I didn't give her time to dwell on this new bit of information.

I put my fingers to my mouth and whistled loudly. The Trainers appeared from different side halls around the room, swords and shields in hand and bodies fully armored.

“And did I mention that we would be doing all of this in the dark?” I asked, drawing my sword and allowing my grin to break through.

Gvenney's eyes widened in fright and Breeta had just enough time to exclaim “What?!” before the Trainers had doused the torches. The Arena was instantly plunged into darkness. Loud screeching and rumbling echoed around the room as the obstacles were moved into position. Ominous silence followed the almost unbearable noise.

“What are we supposed to do?” Gvenney whispered.

“Form a circle with your backs facing inward. And get into a defensive position.” I whispered back, positioning myself like I had ordered. Dramduel quickly fell into place at my side.

“Wait, you're helping us?” Breeta asked a little too loudly.

“Yes, I am. Now get into place.”

She and Gvenney slid in next to Dramduel and I.

“What do we do now?” Breeta questioned. “We have no idea where the Trainers are and we can't see anything.”

“Listen.” I said.

“For what?”

“Just listen.”

I took in a lungful of air and held it. My eyes were closed, my body tensed. I opened my ears and mind and focused on searching for a sound from the Trainers. The Arena was silent aside from the Learners' agitated breathing. There wasn't a single noise from the Trainers, not even a...

The slightest footstep from a few feet away reached my ears. Silently, I swung my sword at the noise. It was followed by a thump of impact and a grunt from the Trainer I had hit. I could just make out his shadowy form as he retreated.

“How did you do that?” Breeta asked right before she squealed in surprise. A Trainer loomed above her from the darkness, sword over his head and crashing down swiftly onto Breeta. She growled fiercely and instinctively stabbed her wooden sword solidly into his stomach. I could hear the air rush out of him from where I was standing. Gasping, he stumbled away, Breeta muttering an apology after him.

“Don't apologize.” I told her. “They're not going to go easy on us, so we're not going to go easy on them.” I smiled, even though I knew she couldn't see it in the dark. “The rules are a little different during a night Training session.”

“Aren't we supposed to be getting that flag?” Dramduel asked from his place at my side.

“Yes we are.”

“And how are we going to do that?” Breeta inquired.

“We're going to have to split up. Each of us will have a different job to do so we can get the flag. Someone needs to look out for Trainers, someone has to watch for obstacles, someone needs to attack the Trainers, and someone needs to actually get the flag. Who wants to do what?”

“I'll attack the Trainers.” Breeta volunteered a little too eagerly.

“I'll watch out for them.” Gvenney said.

“Good. Dramduel, do you want to get the flag?”

I heard him shrug next to me. “That sounds good to me.”

“And I'll look for obstacles. I'll lead the way. Breeta, you need to circle around everyone and take down any of the Trainers you see. Just make sure you don't take down one of us.”

She giggled quietly. “I won't. How do I tell?”

“Well, we're all a lot shorter than all of them. That's a good start. Dramduel, you need to stay somewhere in the middle, and you need to stay by him, Gvenney. Do we all understand what we need to do?”

“Yes.” The Learners replied almost in unison.

“Alright. Let's go. Oh, wait a moment!” I stopped the Learners before they could run off. “If the Trainers capture any of you, then you're out of the session. And if you land any blows on the Trainers then they're out.”

“So that means that we've already taken out two Trainers?” Breeta asked.

“Yes, we have. But they usually do that to just let you get your hopes up.”

“Great.” Breeta moaned.

“We'll split on my count. Three... two... one... Go!”

We dashed out of our circle of protection and into the dark unknown.

Not three paces away I was attacked by a waiting Trainer. He lunged sharply at me and I just had time to side step his blow. Our swords slammed together six times before I pushed him away and struck him solidly on his left shoulder. He hissed in pain and backed away.

I trotted carefully forward. Someone else was fighting, and it sounded like Dramduel. At least that would give me time to catch up.

I was so focused on finding him that I didn't see the first obstacle. My foot got tangled in it and I tripped, falling none to gracefully onto the cobblestones with a loud 'oomph!' I jerked desperately at my foot until it finally came loose and knelt down to get a better look at this obstacle. Fish netting about two feet high stretched all the way across the Arena.

“Watch out for fish netting.” I called out to the Learners as I jumped up.

“Fish netting? What do you mean watch out for fish netting?” I heard Breeta ask before she thudded to the groan with a gasp of surprise.

“That fish netting.” I replied, fighting back a chuckle.

The next obstacle I came to was giant pit of mud oozing all over the Arena floor. Large barrels were scattered around its edge that I almost tripped over multiple times.

“Mud puddle and barrels.” I announced.

A few feet behind me and to my left, Breeta screamed and something splashed to the cobblestones.

“Ice water!” She managed to sputter out as she fought off the Trainer that had thrown it.

I heard someone running to me from my left and the suspicious sounds of sloshing. I leaped aside just as a bucketful of ice water was launched at me. It splashed harmlessly past me, but the Trainer wasn't fazed.

He lunged at me with a wild growl. I pushed his sword up and away from him, and lashed at his side. His shield caught my blow and he pushed me backwards with it right into the mud. I caught myself before I fell backwards into it and jumped onto the Trainer before he could recover himself. I hit him as gently as I could on his head and he sighed in defeat.

“You're getting better, Brutan.”

It was Trainer Keanor. I chuckled. “Thank you. You're not too bad yourself.”

“But you're still not better than me.”

I heard a swooshing sound behind me and ducked instinctively. I swung my blade in an arc and hit this new Trainer in his side.

I grinned at Trainer Keanor. “Maybe I am.”

He snorted at this and walked silently off with the other Trainer.

“Thanks for taking care of that guy for me.” Breeta said.

“No problem. There's only two Trainers left and one of them's the Master Trainer. You might need some help with him.” I whispered.

“I doubt it. But I'll holler if I do.”

A shriek came from Gvenney near the center of the Arena followed by the sound of wooden swords crashing together.

“I'm coming, Gvenney!” Breeta yelped as she ran over to help her.

I moved forward, looking for more obstacles. We didn't have much time left before the torches were re-lit and the session was over. But from what I could tell from the faint outlines of obstacles and Learners I could see, we were nearing out goal. Directly in front of the rope the flag was hanging from were five square boxes, each different sizes but all of them taller then a full grown man. A path wound through these boxes that was so small only one Learner could squeeze through at a time. Waiting at the end of this path was either the flag or another obstacle.

I glanced around to make sure everyone had passed all of the previous obstacles. Breeta and Gvenney were still fighting the Trainer and Dramduel was racing towards me. He screeched to a halt at my side.

“Past those boxes,” he panted. “Are there anymore obstacles?”

I shrugged. “The Master Trainer could be waiting for us in there, but I'm not sure. There's only one way to find out.”

“Should we wait for the girls?” He asked, looking back at the forms of Breeta and Gvenney as they struggled with the Trainer.

“We need to go in there now or we won't have time.” I said. “I'm sure Breeta and Gvenney will follow us soon.”

“Then let's go.” Dramduel smiled. He darted into the final obstacle with me following close behind.

We squeezed our way through the short maze quickly and painlessly. When we pushed ourselves out of it, our swords were up and ready for whatever challenge might face us. It almost seemed darker over here. I squinted my eyes and peered around me, ears perked for the slightest irregular noise. The sound of the girls sparring the Trainer were muffled behind the tall boxes and I didn't hear anything else unusual.

“Go ahead and get the flag, Dramduel and I'll watch out for the Master Trainer.”

These words had barely passed through my mouth before Dramduel shouted and pushed me backwards. We crashed onto the cobblestones and I watched as the massive silhouette of the Master Trainer sailed down from the top of a box and landed nimbly right in front of us.

Dramduel and I scrambled up and lowered ourselves into defensive positions.

“I'll distract him. You get the flag.” I mumbled out of the side of my mouth. Dramduel nodded almost imperceptibly.

Wordlessly, the Master Trainer charged at us. His sword sliced down at me diagonally over his shoulder and it took all of my strength to block it. Dramduel sprinted off towards the flag, but the Master Trainer turned on him. Dramduel barely managed to bring his sword up to meet the Master Trainer's as he rained down blow after blow on the Learner. Dramduel faltered under a particularly heavy strike and I leaped in. I shoved the Master Trainer's blade aside just enough to let Dramduel loose. I swung at the Master Trainer just as quickly as he had swung at Dramduel moments before. I just had to give Dramduel enough time to get the flag before the Master Trainer won, as I knew he eventually would.

Shouts came from the other side of the obstacle. Heavy, running footsteps, and out of the opening between the boxes came the last Trainer. Dramduel was just reaching up to take the flag when the Trainer appeared. He ran over to Dramduel before he could retrieve the flag and they were soon engaged in a desperate battle.

Breeta and Gvenney slid out of the path and almost ran into each other.

“Get the flag!” I yelled, my teeth gritted in concentration.

“Isn't that Dramduel's job?” Breeta asked, looking back and forth between Dramduel and I.

“That doesn't matter anymore!” I exclaimed, ducking out of the way of a wild blow from the Master Trainer. “Just get the flag!”

Both of the girls rushed over to the flag at the same time. I struggled to hold back the Master Trainer, grunting with every blow I gave and parried. I didn't think I could hold out for much longer against his sheer strength. But I remembered how I had found that extra strength during my fight with the Night Shadow, and I dug for it.

As Breeta ran past Dramduel, the Trainer fighting him stuck out his foot. Breeta pitched forward and fell to her knees. In one fell stroke, the Trainer slammed Dramduel across the front of his chest and pivoted around to face Breeta. Gvenney watched all this in stunned silence.

“Gvenney!” I screamed, battering back the Master Trainer's furious assaults. She looked over at me.

“Get the flag!” Each word was punctuated by a grunt as I deflected three more blows from the Master Trainer.

That was all she needed. Slipping a little on the cobblestones, she bolted over the few remaining steps to the flag. The remaining Trainer leapt over Breeta and raced towards her, but he was too late. Gvenney ripped the flag from its rope and raised it high in the air just as the torches were re-lit.

“I did it! I got the flag!” She cried, a triumphant smile pulling back her lips further than I thought was humanly possible.

Breeta shouted victoriously, leaping up from her knees and running over to Gvenney. She hugged her, laughing and saying “You did it!” over and over again.

Dramduel and I both dropped our swords and lifted Gvenney onto our shoulders. The four of us marched around the eight humble Trainers who cheered Gvenney's name with us as she blushed a deep crimson.

For the first time in a long time, the Learners had succeeded in retrieving the flag. And this was cause for celebration.

“You can all take tomorrow off.” The Master Trainer said once our excitement had cooled down and Gvenney was safely on the ground again. “And the teamwork and ingenuity you displayed tonight has shown me that you will all make excellent Home Defenders. From this moment on Dramduel, Gvenney, and Breeta are now officially Learners. In a few weeks time we will have a banquet to honor this occasion and announce the news to the Village. So I would suggest that you all prepare yourselves for a grand feast.”

Great shouts of joy rose up from both the four of us and the Trainers. No longer were the Learners just being tested, or the concept of Home Defense just an experiment. Now it was a reality. For me, this was both exciting and frightening. Not only was Home Defense a reality, but so was the threat behind its birth. And I had to Train these Learners to be ready to fight whatever that threat was. 

Thanks for reading!!!! Have a great week. :D

MR