The Return Teaser VIII

Well, another day, another chapter.  =o)  I’m on a writing binge right now, if you couldn’t already tell.  I love it when this happens!  When I sit down and just write and write, the words coming so fast, I can barely get them into the computer.  This is when I realize that the story truly does have a life of its own.  It comes to me when it wants, from some unknown, magical place.  And many times while writing, I won’t know something will happen until I get there.  I was just telling this to my editor.  The story grows in the telling and as a good storyteller, I just let it flow through me.  If I tried to control it, it would be a disaster.

And this, I think, is the difference between “writing” and “storytelling.”  There are many out there who want to be “writers.”  They focus so much stylistic flourish and big, impressive words that they believe will make their story sell.  To them, sounding like Shakespeare will make their story good and they look down with contempt on anyone who doesn’t hold to that standard or write beautiful prose like they do.

For me, that’s all nonsense.  I don’t write for that.  I don’t write for awards, or fame, or recognition.  I don’t write in order to get that big publishing deal or that big agent who will take me to the top.  In fact, I have never submitted my work to a publisher or an agent and I probably never will.  For me, it’s all about the story, getting lost in another world, and sharing it with others.  And really, it’s that simple.

I would love to have lived during a time when there were no computers, no paper or pens or any kind of writing utensil.  Just the fire and the children sitting around it watching an old man or woman recount a magical tale of monsters or goblins or witches that the children would remember the next morning and act out in playtime during the day.  A time when there was no pollution, or national debt, or threat of nuclear war.  A simpler time.  A time of just being.  Wouldn’t it be nice?  I dream of it occasionally.

But, instead of continuing to blather on about my dreams, I will share with you the teaser for the next chapter, chapter seven.  Enjoy!

“There is one more thing,” Jasper said.  “One more piece of information you need to pass on to Marcus.”

“What’s that?”

“I believe that Davinthore has also been commissioned with the task of building these weapons you speak of.”

“My uncle?!”

“Yes, he has also received a shipment.  I overheard them say it.  It seems that in his mission to destroy the Resistance, Dar’Maalda intends to use every ship in Davinthore’s armada, armed with these weapons, I assume.”

Suddenly, Xenin’s words echoed in Chalice’ mind: The Fierain will take his armies and destroy the underground cities, along with all their inhabitants.  He will give no quarter.  It will be a disaster.

Xenin was telling the truth, she thought.  Why would he do that?

Happy Reading!

~ Melissa

Tags: The Return