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Laurell K. Hamilton maxed out my drivel quotient into the next ice age. I may break down and see the movie just so I have something new to complain about though.

I read 'The Giver" mainly just to prove Temple wrong. it took me a couple of hours... it isn't really all that long or complex. It was exactly what I thought it would be.

I defiantly submit the following for your consumption:

He was born in a small fishing village, so like those in the great western seas. His mother named him Blue, on account of the color of the water the day he was born. The calm skies and bountiful harvest of fish that day were both auspicious omens for his birth.

From the moment Blue opened his eyes, the villagers knew he was something special, and very different. As he looked about those his inquisitive stare shifted in color and constantly swirled from light green to the deepest blue, just like the different oceans of the world. The medicine wives blessed him and sang praises to the small gods and the spirits of the seas.

His birth was not unexpected, or shocking, instead it seemed preordained. Only a few years earlier a great lord of the mainland houses had come through the area, after a victory in one of the many wars the mainlanders constantly waged. The night that personage stayed amongst the villagers, he asked for tribute, in the form of a maiden. This request was met with honor, and it was Blue’s mother who was finally chosen after much deliberation. She accepted the task with simple dignity, and pride at her appointed duty. That night she entertained the great man, and on that night a peace descended down upon the local waters.

After the great lord left, things pretty much returned to normal, and the village pushed the prestigious occasion from their minds, to concentrate on the business of survival. They did however, place Blue’s mother in a position of honor amongst the fishwives, and never forgot her deed.

So the years went by, two in fact as the Children of the Dragons have longer than normal gestation periods, before Blue was born. The whole time Blue’s mother was watched over by the other fishwives and she carried him without incident In all the days Blue’s mother carried him, never once did the fishermen fail to bring back a days haul, nor did the pirates who dominated those waters pay the small town any mind. All in all the people were content, and taken care of. Truly they believed the gods had smiled on them.

Then the day finally arrived, and it was the most beautiful day any could recall in recent memory. As Blue gave his first cry the powerful leviathans breached the oceans surface and danced in the sun for all the witness. Their songs could be heard throughout he morning, and the fisherman at sea swore the beasts were with their boats all through the day.

Blue’s mother was given a position at the head of the fishwives’ councils, and the village elders looked to the boy as a totem. As he grew it was very apparent that he was more than human, and possessed a piece of his father’s power. Their only regret was that the great man who was responsible for Blue’s creation, never once came back to claim an heir or reward the village for their faithful actions.

Blue himself was happy as a youth, and he picked up both the tools and trade of his people very quickly. He learned to fish, and to sail, and was amongst the best of their tradesmen at the age of five. He grew up fast and very early showed signs of being the most handsome youth the village had ever produced. His dark wavy hair, soft features, and strange eyes, gave him the look of something born to the water. Despite his alien visage or perhaps because of it he was the pride of this small world.

So things continued throughout his childhood. Only on a few occasions did Blue have need to fear anything. Once a terrible storm came from the deep water and threatened to blow and drown the village away. It was Blue who saved them, as he was able to predict the coming storm, which gave the villagers time to move up into higher territory. The other times were close calls with the pirates of the area, but while those bandits attacked their boats, they never came to the village itself. Their presence, never forgotten, loomed like a shadow over daily life.

It may seem weird that Blue was so accepted in his differences, but you must understand that his world is a world of magic, and gods, and wonder. Miracles walked amongst the peoples of every land, and powerful creatures roamed the wilds. Such things were not common per se, but nor were they rare. It was in a small insignificant village’s best interests to embrace such happenings and accept them, rather than shun them. The small gods of the world could be terrible or generous, and it was possible to appease them as long as their gifts were embraced, and their tantrums taken in stride.

These teachings were consequently a part of Blues education amongst the villagers. He grew up learning to respect and thank the spirits of the world. He would start each morning with a prayer, along with every other member of his village.

Gentle blessing
Giving sea
Spirit asked
Watch over me

This was the first prayer taught to each, and every child by their parents, but it was far from the last. Each night at the village dinner more elaborate ceremonies of ‘thanks’ took place. Every morning as the fishermen prepared to depart were blessing for the boats, and prayers to be said as they repaired the nets. Even small prayers or ceremonies were given for clear weather, and before one could touch or drink. This last was a simple thing in which one touches the water and the breast over their heart. Only then can one drink the given liquid, or immerse ones self in its body. These things may seem silly to mainlanders or outsiders, but they were a very real part of village life, and Blue’s early teachings.

This education shaped Blue in mind and spirit. He learned to appreciate what is given, and be thankful to the lesser spirits of the world. In turn he learned to appreciate other people as well, respect for those that contribute, and praise for those that gave. In this he learned to help provide and give back so that he would earn his welcome, and bring something to those that he loved.

Alas, all good things must end, and so too would Blue’s childhood, but it did not pass uneventfully for Blue or his village. His passage into adulthood was ushered forward by great events, both terrible and powerful as omens for his life to come.

It was no secret that Blue possessed special gifts, his ability to read the ocean, and find patterns in the weather had help the village on several occasions, but it was unfocused and unpredictable. Blue also found that he could attune himself, to the water. Mostly he felt this connection whenever he prayed and touched the essence of the liquid. A few times he had even managed to fill cup from nothing.

These happenings had not gone unnoticed, and the elders had done what they could to try and guide the young boys talents. It seemed impossible, as none amongst them had any real experience with such things. So much of the time Blue was left to simply feel his way through the exercises they taught him. He didn’t understand that such things would manifest when they were ready, and until then they would lay inside him nearly dormant.

The moment he had been waiting for came in the middle of his eleventh year. His village had come upon hard times. The pirates who preyed on the fishing towns had become increasingly more active. Rumors trickled in of violent attacks and even raids on other villages. Each day the fishermen would set out with a dark mood, and the fishwives worried away the days, all in dread of the sea dogs.

It happened in the late afternoon one day, as the fishing boats returned, a dark shape was spotted on the horizon. As the village watched, their fear growing, the shape became two, then three, and finally four. The dark specks became outlines, and the outlines became ships. Large ships with patched sails, and flags bearing the markings of pirates.

The villagers did what they could to fortify their homes, and arm themselves. Hooks, and spears were brought out, but they knew they were not fighters. The able bodies of the village practiced a form of martial art, but it was mostly an exercise and had not been forged in the fire of battle. The women, children, and those sick or to old to fight were put in the central hall. Everyone else was put to work.

Blue was out amongst the people. Though to young to fight, he had asked to stand beside those that would fight. If they failed it wouldn’t matter where he was anyway. The elders decided this would be good, and Blue could act as a symbol for the rest to rally beside. Preparations made, they could only sit back and wait for the raiders, with tensions mounting.

As emotions mounted, the fear and anxiety became a living thing to Blue. He felt his mind begin to reel and something inside him begin to churn. He had known fear before but this was different. So caught up in this new sensation was he, that Blue never heard the first sounds of the fighting. It wasn’t until he was jostled violently by the body of a falling fisherman that he was snapped out of his mood.

He pushed the man, an able sailor and fisherman, off himself and looked down into his eyes. The man smiled at Blue and died, and the feelings inside Blue began to rush out. They came in tangible waves of energy. A pirate, the one who killed the man at Blue’s feet, had only time to see the shimmer of water, before it struck him like a javelin.

Quickly, Blue became the center of attention. Pirates screamed, and villagers backed away as torrents of energy cascaded about Blues body like a roaring ocean. Amidst the rolling liquid forms were two spirits; one of a legendary Dragon, and one a leviathan, long revered as protectors by the people of the western seas.

Blue himself wasted no time and began to channel and warp the strange power at his command. He could feel intuitively that it needed his direction, and so direct it he did, toward a bewildered and awestruck group of pirates. They fell over themselves trying to escape the onslaught. Not a few of their number were dead before the rest could reach their landing boats.

The villagers rallied behind Blue, even as they kept their distance, and were able to fight back the raiders with great effect. As the boats pulled away from the beaches several of their ships came to bear and the retort of artillery was heard. In seconds several buildings had disintegrated under the shelling and several more villagers lay screaming.

As a second volley hit the village Blue lost his composure, and in a violent thrust with all his will he pushed a raging sea of energy into the lead ship, blasting a hole straight through the middle. Shortly thereafter the ship broke apart and began to sink. However the pirates weren’t done and Blue felt his new found power begin to drain away. Of course the villagers noticed this, and so did the raiders. As his aura began to fade one of the fishermen helped Blue to safety, and the pirates renewed their assault.

Just as the first of the landing boats came around, a strange sound was heard over the noise of battle. It was haunting music, which filtered in from the open water. Blue felt it, as another entity touched his mind and filled him with renewed strength. With a sharp crack a second of the pirate’s ships revealed a large split running up its center, and slowly it to began to fall into the sea.

A geyser of seawater and sparkling foam exploded beside the ship as several of the great leviathans breached the surface of the water to smash the vessel apart completely. As pirates screamed the villagers looked on with awe, yet Blue could sense something more to come. He knew that something else lurked out in those waters, and felt joyful anticipation as it prepared to reveal itself.

It happened as the remaining pirates began to turn their last ships about and retreat. Another geyser, larger than the other, blasted up between the pirate vessels. As the water began to fall a great form rose from the sea. It was a leviathan larger than any the villagers had ever seen. It was encompassed in an aura of energy not unlike that which Blue so recently manifested. The great beast turned over and rolled, but instead of falling back into the ocean, as it should have, it gently swam through the air between the ships.

Horrified pirates watched as gouts of power slammed, into their beloved ships. Energistic wings unfurled themselves from the leviathan’s sides and blasted through the sides of the now doomed wreckage.

The leviathan itself sang a mournful song, as it caressed the two ships and their crews with destructive energy. Blue could feel it’s sad heart, and knew why it cried. He two felt the sorrow of battle, and loved the great creature all the more for it’s wisdom. The villagers simply heard its song, clear and beautiful, as the creature rescued their simple home. The Pirates as they were blasted or drowned heard only a slow melody, which haunted their last breaths.

As the battle subsided, and the last pirates died, the villagers did their best to begin cleaning up, and helping the wounded, but the water spirit could not help draw their attention. As the elders and those that had hid came out, the large entity drew in toward the shoreline sill lamenting the recent carnage.

Blue stood forward to meet the great beast, as the rest of the humans drew back with trepidation. The leviathan still in touch with Blue’s mind reached out over the minds of the others and began to sing a song of comfort, hope, and love. Blue stepped toward it and they touched for the first time. The child now a young man, with his hand, and the ocean spirit with its head. At this symbol, the tension broke and the villagers cried out in joy, and relief.

The leviathan was called Bay, and it had heard Blue calling out through something it called Creation. It had come here to protect and help Blue, and from that moment forward they would be companions. Blue was happier than he had ever been. The village was safe, he had found a kindred spirit, and finally his potential had manifest. No longer was he unsure of his destiny.

He knew that with his power he could help people. He could show the world the kind of love he had learned growing up. That would be his calling, to show the world compassion, and justice, tempered with humility. If there were others like those pirates then the world was sorely in need of such things. He would also he vowed, never leave those under his care lost with so many questions, as his father had done with him.

At this thought Blue pondered his father, a man he had never known. He hadn’t ever thought about it much, as in this village everyone had many fathers, and mothers. No it occurred to him that he didn’t need that man nor did he resent that his true father had never come back. Blue simply felt that if he had been in the same position he would have been more responsible, and taken a more active roll in his child’s life.

His mother on the other hand he loved dearly, and always would. He loved that she had bore him, and he was proud that she had been the gateway for his very special life. As all these things hit Blue in a moment of clarity he was at peace, and Bay felt that with him.

Although Blue took all these events in stride his village was never quiet the same. Though the pirates had been defeated, the villagers had subtly changed. They had bore witness to the brutality of warfare, and experienced its harsh lessons. So their hearts became just a bit harder, and their eyes became a bit more clouded to the god things in the world.

Still rumors trickled in of pirate incursions, and the village became more battle ready. Houses were fortified, and fishermen were armed. They traded for weapons as often as not. The life in Blue’s once peaceful home would never be the same. Blue wanted desperately to do something, but Bay and the elders urged him to keep training his new skills, as he would be called soon. They wouldn’t say to what he would be called, or by whom, only that a time of change approached. Like his element Blue accepted this, and diligently practiced using his new powers.

He was a creature apart from them, and he understood this, so he trained and listened to his new companions teachings. Bay also knew what it was like to be different and even here he was seen with awe and worship, instead of with a simple thanks. So the two together began to spend their days together, and apart from the rest of the village. They were not begrudged, but instead were encouraged to do so.

Of course the elders were right, those amongst them who had been out in the world, knew that children like Blue were watched for, by the noble houses on the mainland. When Blue had manifested his aura they knew it was only a matter of time. They told his mother and she also came to accept that her child would have to leave, and she took heart in the fact that Bay would be with him.

Sure enough only weeks after the Pirate attack a single ship was spotted approaching the village. The sighting was met with an arming of the able bodies and apprehension, but as the vessel drew closer it became very apparent that it was not a pirate ship. Instead it bore the markings of a mainland institution. The institution was familiar to several of the elders and they knew it was time for Blue to leave.

As the ship pulled into the small port and docked, the elders and fishwives gathered around. Blue was brought forward and placed in front of the group. Blue was a bit scared as a large ramp descended from the ship, and several armored knights bearing standards marched into the village. Behind them came an old man in robes, followed by a gaggle of younger men and women also garbed in robes, and carrying sheets of parchment as well as writing implements.

The procession came to a halt, with the older man at its head, in front of the village elders. Greeting were exchanged, and Blue was held before them as they asked whom amongst them had Exalted. Though Blue didn’t know what Exalted meant, but he was sure they meant him. The old man was pleasant toward him if a bit strict, and he was told to pack only a single bag and be ready by morning.

That night the village threw a feast to sing the praises of their blessed son and his guardian Bay. The Elder and his scribes conferred often and wrote many of their stories and customs down. They were needless to say a bit shocked when they first met the leviathan, but the older man was very serious when he insisted the spirit join Blue on his journey to the mainland kingdoms.

Blue was told he would be going off to attend a school, with other young men and women like himself. He would be taught how to use his powers, and to exist in a world very different from the one he had grown up in. Blue was excited, and a little afraid, and he slept not a wink that whole night.

As morning came and the older man in robes gave the orders to prepare for departure, Blue went to his mother and they exchanged last goodbyes. He then said goodbye to the rest of the village, who all came out to see him off. He then followed the old man and his entourage onto the great vessel, and with a last wave was taken out to sea. The last thing Blue remembered from that morning was his mothers promise that there would always be a place for him in the village.

The ship set course and traveled into the rising sun. The spirit Bay followed Blue and the ship. Sometimes it could be seen flying beside the ship and sometimes beneath it. He was quiet an anomaly and highly unusual, but most of the other people on the ship seemed to accept him.

The trip itself was long with little to do. Everyday Blue was given some minor instructions on what to expect at the school, and what was expected of him. He was quick to pick it all up, and the rest of the time he spent getting to know some of the other young people. It turned out they were all advanced students learning underneath the old man who had come to collect Blue.

It was unusual for humans to Exalt outside the realm, and they let him know this. They asked so many questions Blue didn’t know the answers to, and used so many words that Blue had never heard, that he felt very stupid and out of place. They said it was okay, and that he would get the answers and learn the words in school.

The one thing they seemed the most shocked by however, was that he didn’t know his father. Apparently lineage was rather important on the mainland. This didn’t change most of their opinions of Blue, as he was so easy to get along with and seemed so ready to care for and be interested in them.

It wasn’t an act either, these people from the outside made his old world seem so small, and he was anxious to grow into a new roll, and learn about all the new things. So as the voyage passed Blue grew even more, and learned all about the alien world to which he was determined to belong.

School was a bit different than Blue had been led to believe. Everything was strict and orderly. While the fishing village had its routines, and demanded hard work, it was still much different than the academy.

Before, Blue had been given tasks he had found both enjoyable and without stress. One could lose ones self in the daily chores, and dream while taking care of tasks. At school constant attention had to be devoted to studies and lectures. Blue had to pay attention, and do as he was told, with no room for error, or there came punishments.

It was exceptionally hard for him coming from such a different lifestyle, but he changed old habits and learned to adapt to his new setting, like water from a stream filling a cup. The lessons became easier as routines were established and became familiar. However, there were several parts of his old life Blue cold not leave behind. One was the respect he paid to, the spirits and elements. The other was his desire to help others.

Other students were put off by Blue strange practices and beliefs but his open honesty and desire to understand and accept the beliefs of others, made it easier for them accept him. Plus Blue never turned down the excuses to help someone. This made him very popular amongst the other students and teachers. His attitude and fresh perspective helped all those who knew him to add a bit of light to an otherwise gloomy day to day routine.

As it turned out some of the students who gave him the hardest times at first, became some of his closest compatriots. He was probably the only kid in school who wore his intentions on his sleeve and always delivered on a promise. Yes, it was unsettling, but in the face of his honest smile it was hard not to like and trust him.

Bay for the most part kept to a decent sized lake, which was present on the school grounds. Many of the other students had pets and creatures they called familiars, but no one had anything like Bay. He was a wonder to behold, and several important figures came to talk with Blue about his spirit companion on more than one occasion. If they talked to Bay as well, Blue never found out.

The two existed beside and around one another, Blue was never happier than when he was with his spirit guide. In fact special allowances were made so that Blue could spend more time with the colossal being. It seemed that several of the instructors at the academy had recognized something inherent in the bond between the two.

So four years passed with Blue growing and learning each day. His teachers loved him, and he was rather popular as a student and friend. He learned all about the social life in realm. He learned tactics, and warfare. It even turned out that the martial arts he had learned as simple exercises in his village had actual applications in fighting.


Blue was never entirely comfortable with war, and battle training, but he excelled in it none the less. In fact in all his time at the academy Blue didn’t find a single thing he couldn’t do if he put his mind to it.

In his off time Blue would read, and play games with the other students. Bay usually joined him, much to the delight of those around Blue. He was always ready with a smile and never let hurt feelings or bad news ruin the day. It seemed Blue could always help show some one a better day.

Now the end of his schooling approaches, and a change lurks once again upon the horizon. Blue is ready for what ever comes, and is determined to make the best of the life that awaits him outside the walls of the academy. He knows that to survive he will have to join of the great families, that constantly via for power, and position in the Realm. He also knows he will have the support of his friends and teachers in his life to come.

Bay also has sensed change, and recently let Blue know that wherever and whatever he decided, it would be by his side.

Absolute drivel. What complete crap. I'm offended that this is being posted in a thread for the discussion of legitimate literature.

Rusty wrote:I defiantly submit the following for your consumption:

He was born in a small fishing village, so like those in the great western seas. His mother named him Blue, on account of the color of the water the day he was born. The calm skies and bountiful harvest of fish that day were both auspicious omens for his birth.

From the moment Blue opened his eyes, the villagers knew he was something special, and very different. As he looked about those his inquisitive stare shifted in color and constantly swirled from light green to the deepest blue, just like the different oceans of the world. The medicine wives blessed him and sang praises to the small gods and the spirits of the seas.

His birth was not unexpected, or shocking, instead it seemed preordained. Only a few years earlier a great lord of the mainland houses had come through the area, after a victory in one of the many wars the mainlanders constantly waged. The night that personage stayed amongst the villagers, he asked for tribute, in the form of a maiden. This request was met with honor, and it was Blue’s mother who was finally chosen after much deliberation. She accepted the task with simple dignity, and pride at her appointed duty. That night she entertained the great man, and on that night a peace descended down upon the local waters.

After the great lord left, things pretty much returned to normal, and the village pushed the prestigious occasion from their minds, to concentrate on the business of survival. They did however, place Blue’s mother in a position of honor amongst the fishwives, and never forgot her deed.

So the years went by, two in fact as the Children of the Dragons have longer than normal gestation periods, before Blue was born. The whole time Blue’s mother was watched over by the other fishwives and she carried him without incident In all the days Blue’s mother carried him, never once did the fishermen fail to bring back a days haul, nor did the pirates who dominated those waters pay the small town any mind. All in all the people were content, and taken care of. Truly they believed the gods had smiled on them.

Then the day finally arrived, and it was the most beautiful day any could recall in recent memory. As Blue gave his first cry the powerful leviathans breached the oceans surface and danced in the sun for all the witness. Their songs could be heard throughout he morning, and the fisherman at sea swore the beasts were with their boats all through the day.

Blue’s mother was given a position at the head of the fishwives’ councils, and the village elders looked to the boy as a totem. As he grew it was very apparent that he was more than human, and possessed a piece of his father’s power. Their only regret was that the great man who was responsible for Blue’s creation, never once came back to claim an heir or reward the village for their faithful actions.

Blue himself was happy as a youth, and he picked up both the tools and trade of his people very quickly. He learned to fish, and to sail, and was amongst the best of their tradesmen at the age of five. He grew up fast and very early showed signs of being the most handsome youth the village had ever produced. His dark wavy hair, soft features, and strange eyes, gave him the look of something born to the water. Despite his alien visage or perhaps because of it he was the pride of this small world.

So things continued throughout his childhood. Only on a few occasions did Blue have need to fear anything. Once a terrible storm came from the deep water and threatened to blow and drown the village away. It was Blue who saved them, as he was able to predict the coming storm, which gave the villagers time to move up into higher territory. The other times were close calls with the pirates of the area, but while those bandits attacked their boats, they never came to the village itself. Their presence, never forgotten, loomed like a shadow over daily life.

It may seem weird that Blue was so accepted in his differences, but you must understand that his world is a world of magic, and gods, and wonder. Miracles walked amongst the peoples of every land, and powerful creatures roamed the wilds. Such things were not common per se, but nor were they rare. It was in a small insignificant village’s best interests to embrace such happenings and accept them, rather than shun them. The small gods of the world could be terrible or generous, and it was possible to appease them as long as their gifts were embraced, and their tantrums taken in stride.

These teachings were consequently a part of Blues education amongst the villagers. He grew up learning to respect and thank the spirits of the world. He would start each morning with a prayer, along with every other member of his village.

Gentle blessing
Giving sea
Spirit asked
Watch over me

This was the first prayer taught to each, and every child by their parents, but it was far from the last. Each night at the village dinner more elaborate ceremonies of ‘thanks’ took place. Every morning as the fishermen prepared to depart were blessing for the boats, and prayers to be said as they repaired the nets. Even small prayers or ceremonies were given for clear weather, and before one could touch or drink. This last was a simple thing in which one touches the water and the breast over their heart. Only then can one drink the given liquid, or immerse ones self in its body. These things may seem silly to mainlanders or outsiders, but they were a very real part of village life, and Blue’s early teachings.

This education shaped Blue in mind and spirit. He learned to appreciate what is given, and be thankful to the lesser spirits of the world. In turn he learned to appreciate other people as well, respect for those that contribute, and praise for those that gave. In this he learned to help provide and give back so that he would earn his welcome, and bring something to those that he loved.

Alas, all good things must end, and so too would Blue’s childhood, but it did not pass uneventfully for Blue or his village. His passage into adulthood was ushered forward by great events, both terrible and powerful as omens for his life to come.

It was no secret that Blue possessed special gifts, his ability to read the ocean, and find patterns in the weather had help the village on several occasions, but it was unfocused and unpredictable. Blue also found that he could attune himself, to the water. Mostly he felt this connection whenever he prayed and touched the essence of the liquid. A few times he had even managed to fill cup from nothing.

These happenings had not gone unnoticed, and the elders had done what they could to try and guide the young boys talents. It seemed impossible, as none amongst them had any real experience with such things. So much of the time Blue was left to simply feel his way through the exercises they taught him. He didn’t understand that such things would manifest when they were ready, and until then they would lay inside him nearly dormant.

The moment he had been waiting for came in the middle of his eleventh year. His village had come upon hard times. The pirates who preyed on the fishing towns had become increasingly more active. Rumors trickled in of violent attacks and even raids on other villages. Each day the fishermen would set out with a dark mood, and the fishwives worried away the days, all in dread of the sea dogs.

It happened in the late afternoon one day, as the fishing boats returned, a dark shape was spotted on the horizon. As the village watched, their fear growing, the shape became two, then three, and finally four. The dark specks became outlines, and the outlines became ships. Large ships with patched sails, and flags bearing the markings of pirates.

The villagers did what they could to fortify their homes, and arm themselves. Hooks, and spears were brought out, but they knew they were not fighters. The able bodies of the village practiced a form of martial art, but it was mostly an exercise and had not been forged in the fire of battle. The women, children, and those sick or to old to fight were put in the central hall. Everyone else was put to work.

Blue was out amongst the people. Though to young to fight, he had asked to stand beside those that would fight. If they failed it wouldn’t matter where he was anyway. The elders decided this would be good, and Blue could act as a symbol for the rest to rally beside. Preparations made, they could only sit back and wait for the raiders, with tensions mounting.

As emotions mounted, the fear and anxiety became a living thing to Blue. He felt his mind begin to reel and something inside him begin to churn. He had known fear before but this was different. So caught up in this new sensation was he, that Blue never heard the first sounds of the fighting. It wasn’t until he was jostled violently by the body of a falling fisherman that he was snapped out of his mood.

He pushed the man, an able sailor and fisherman, off himself and looked down into his eyes. The man smiled at Blue and died, and the feelings inside Blue began to rush out. They came in tangible waves of energy. A pirate, the one who killed the man at Blue’s feet, had only time to see the shimmer of water, before it struck him like a javelin.

Quickly, Blue became the center of attention. Pirates screamed, and villagers backed away as torrents of energy cascaded about Blues body like a roaring ocean. Amidst the rolling liquid forms were two spirits; one of a legendary Dragon, and one a leviathan, long revered as protectors by the people of the western seas.

Blue himself wasted no time and began to channel and warp the strange power at his command. He could feel intuitively that it needed his direction, and so direct it he did, toward a bewildered and awestruck group of pirates. They fell over themselves trying to escape the onslaught. Not a few of their number were dead before the rest could reach their landing boats.

The villagers rallied behind Blue, even as they kept their distance, and were able to fight back the raiders with great effect. As the boats pulled away from the beaches several of their ships came to bear and the retort of artillery was heard. In seconds several buildings had disintegrated under the shelling and several more villagers lay screaming.

As a second volley hit the village Blue lost his composure, and in a violent thrust with all his will he pushed a raging sea of energy into the lead ship, blasting a hole straight through the middle. Shortly thereafter the ship broke apart and began to sink. However the pirates weren’t done and Blue felt his new found power begin to drain away. Of course the villagers noticed this, and so did the raiders. As his aura began to fade one of the fishermen helped Blue to safety, and the pirates renewed their assault.

Just as the first of the landing boats came around, a strange sound was heard over the noise of battle. It was haunting music, which filtered in from the open water. Blue felt it, as another entity touched his mind and filled him with renewed strength. With a sharp crack a second of the pirate’s ships revealed a large split running up its center, and slowly it to began to fall into the sea.

A geyser of seawater and sparkling foam exploded beside the ship as several of the great leviathans breached the surface of the water to smash the vessel apart completely. As pirates screamed the villagers looked on with awe, yet Blue could sense something more to come. He knew that something else lurked out in those waters, and felt joyful anticipation as it prepared to reveal itself.

It happened as the remaining pirates began to turn their last ships about and retreat. Another geyser, larger than the other, blasted up between the pirate vessels. As the water began to fall a great form rose from the sea. It was a leviathan larger than any the villagers had ever seen. It was encompassed in an aura of energy not unlike that which Blue so recently manifested. The great beast turned over and rolled, but instead of falling back into the ocean, as it should have, it gently swam through the air between the ships.

Horrified pirates watched as gouts of power slammed, into their beloved ships. Energistic wings unfurled themselves from the leviathan’s sides and blasted through the sides of the now doomed wreckage.

The leviathan itself sang a mournful song, as it caressed the two ships and their crews with destructive energy. Blue could feel it’s sad heart, and knew why it cried. He two felt the sorrow of battle, and loved the great creature all the more for it’s wisdom. The villagers simply heard its song, clear and beautiful, as the creature rescued their simple home. The Pirates as they were blasted or drowned heard only a slow melody, which haunted their last breaths.

As the battle subsided, and the last pirates died, the villagers did their best to begin cleaning up, and helping the wounded, but the water spirit could not help draw their attention. As the elders and those that had hid came out, the large entity drew in toward the shoreline sill lamenting the recent carnage.

Blue stood forward to meet the great beast, as the rest of the humans drew back with trepidation. The leviathan still in touch with Blue’s mind reached out over the minds of the others and began to sing a song of comfort, hope, and love. Blue stepped toward it and they touched for the first time. The child now a young man, with his hand, and the ocean spirit with its head. At this symbol, the tension broke and the villagers cried out in joy, and relief.

The leviathan was called Bay, and it had heard Blue calling out through something it called Creation. It had come here to protect and help Blue, and from that moment forward they would be companions. Blue was happier than he had ever been. The village was safe, he had found a kindred spirit, and finally his potential had manifest. No longer was he unsure of his destiny.

He knew that with his power he could help people. He could show the world the kind of love he had learned growing up. That would be his calling, to show the world compassion, and justice, tempered with humility. If there were others like those pirates then the world was sorely in need of such things. He would also he vowed, never leave those under his care lost with so many questions, as his father had done with him.

At this thought Blue pondered his father, a man he had never known. He hadn’t ever thought about it much, as in this village everyone had many fathers, and mothers. No it occurred to him that he didn’t need that man nor did he resent that his true father had never come back. Blue simply felt that if he had been in the same position he would have been more responsible, and taken a more active roll in his child’s life.

His mother on the other hand he loved dearly, and always would. He loved that she had bore him, and he was proud that she had been the gateway for his very special life. As all these things hit Blue in a moment of clarity he was at peace, and Bay felt that with him.

Although Blue took all these events in stride his village was never quiet the same. Though the pirates had been defeated, the villagers had subtly changed. They had bore witness to the brutality of warfare, and experienced its harsh lessons. So their hearts became just a bit harder, and their eyes became a bit more clouded to the god things in the world.

Still rumors trickled in of pirate incursions, and the village became more battle ready. Houses were fortified, and fishermen were armed. They traded for weapons as often as not. The life in Blue’s once peaceful home would never be the same. Blue wanted desperately to do something, but Bay and the elders urged him to keep training his new skills, as he would be called soon. They wouldn’t say to what he would be called, or by whom, only that a time of change approached. Like his element Blue accepted this, and diligently practiced using his new powers.

He was a creature apart from them, and he understood this, so he trained and listened to his new companions teachings. Bay also knew what it was like to be different and even here he was seen with awe and worship, instead of with a simple thanks. So the two together began to spend their days together, and apart from the rest of the village. They were not begrudged, but instead were encouraged to do so.

Of course the elders were right, those amongst them who had been out in the world, knew that children like Blue were watched for, by the noble houses on the mainland. When Blue had manifested his aura they knew it was only a matter of time. They told his mother and she also came to accept that her child would have to leave, and she took heart in the fact that Bay would be with him.

Sure enough only weeks after the Pirate attack a single ship was spotted approaching the village. The sighting was met with an arming of the able bodies and apprehension, but as the vessel drew closer it became very apparent that it was not a pirate ship. Instead it bore the markings of a mainland institution. The institution was familiar to several of the elders and they knew it was time for Blue to leave.

As the ship pulled into the small port and docked, the elders and fishwives gathered around. Blue was brought forward and placed in front of the group. Blue was a bit scared as a large ramp descended from the ship, and several armored knights bearing standards marched into the village. Behind them came an old man in robes, followed by a gaggle of younger men and women also garbed in robes, and carrying sheets of parchment as well as writing implements.

The procession came to a halt, with the older man at its head, in front of the village elders. Greeting were exchanged, and Blue was held before them as they asked whom amongst them had Exalted. Though Blue didn’t know what Exalted meant, but he was sure they meant him. The old man was pleasant toward him if a bit strict, and he was told to pack only a single bag and be ready by morning.

That night the village threw a feast to sing the praises of their blessed son and his guardian Bay. The Elder and his scribes conferred often and wrote many of their stories and customs down. They were needless to say a bit shocked when they first met the leviathan, but the older man was very serious when he insisted the spirit join Blue on his journey to the mainland kingdoms.

Blue was told he would be going off to attend a school, with other young men and women like himself. He would be taught how to use his powers, and to exist in a world very different from the one he had grown up in. Blue was excited, and a little afraid, and he slept not a wink that whole night.

As morning came and the older man in robes gave the orders to prepare for departure, Blue went to his mother and they exchanged last goodbyes. He then said goodbye to the rest of the village, who all came out to see him off. He then followed the old man and his entourage onto the great vessel, and with a last wave was taken out to sea. The last thing Blue remembered from that morning was his mothers promise that there would always be a place for him in the village.

The ship set course and traveled into the rising sun. The spirit Bay followed Blue and the ship. Sometimes it could be seen flying beside the ship and sometimes beneath it. He was quiet an anomaly and highly unusual, but most of the other people on the ship seemed to accept him.

The trip itself was long with little to do. Everyday Blue was given some minor instructions on what to expect at the school, and what was expected of him. He was quick to pick it all up, and the rest of the time he spent getting to know some of the other young people. It turned out they were all advanced students learning underneath the old man who had come to collect Blue.

It was unusual for humans to Exalt outside the realm, and they let him know this. They asked so many questions Blue didn’t know the answers to, and used so many words that Blue had never heard, that he felt very stupid and out of place. They said it was okay, and that he would get the answers and learn the words in school.

The one thing they seemed the most shocked by however, was that he didn’t know his father. Apparently lineage was rather important on the mainland. This didn’t change most of their opinions of Blue, as he was so easy to get along with and seemed so ready to care for and be interested in them.

It wasn’t an act either, these people from the outside made his old world seem so small, and he was anxious to grow into a new roll, and learn about all the new things. So as the voyage passed Blue grew even more, and learned all about the alien world to which he was determined to belong.

School was a bit different than Blue had been led to believe. Everything was strict and orderly. While the fishing village had its routines, and demanded hard work, it was still much different than the academy.

Before, Blue had been given tasks he had found both enjoyable and without stress. One could lose ones self in the daily chores, and dream while taking care of tasks. At school constant attention had to be devoted to studies and lectures. Blue had to pay attention, and do as he was told, with no room for error, or there came punishments.

It was exceptionally hard for him coming from such a different lifestyle, but he changed old habits and learned to adapt to his new setting, like water from a stream filling a cup. The lessons became easier as routines were established and became familiar. However, there were several parts of his old life Blue cold not leave behind. One was the respect he paid to, the spirits and elements. The other was his desire to help others.

Other students were put off by Blue strange practices and beliefs but his open honesty and desire to understand and accept the beliefs of others, made it easier for them accept him. Plus Blue never turned down the excuses to help someone. This made him very popular amongst the other students and teachers. His attitude and fresh perspective helped all those who knew him to add a bit of light to an otherwise gloomy day to day routine.

As it turned out some of the students who gave him the hardest times at first, became some of his closest compatriots. He was probably the only kid in school who wore his intentions on his sleeve and always delivered on a promise. Yes, it was unsettling, but in the face of his honest smile it was hard not to like and trust him.

Bay for the most part kept to a decent sized lake, which was present on the school grounds. Many of the other students had pets and creatures they called familiars, but no one had anything like Bay. He was a wonder to behold, and several important figures came to talk with Blue about his spirit companion on more than one occasion. If they talked to Bay as well, Blue never found out.

The two existed beside and around one another, Blue was never happier than when he was with his spirit guide. In fact special allowances were made so that Blue could spend more time with the colossal being. It seemed that several of the instructors at the academy had recognized something inherent in the bond between the two.

So four years passed with Blue growing and learning each day. His teachers loved him, and he was rather popular as a student and friend. He learned all about the social life in realm. He learned tactics, and warfare. It even turned out that the martial arts he had learned as simple exercises in his village had actual applications in fighting.


Blue was never entirely comfortable with war, and battle training, but he excelled in it none the less. In fact in all his time at the academy Blue didn’t find a single thing he couldn’t do if he put his mind to it.

In his off time Blue would read, and play games with the other students. Bay usually joined him, much to the delight of those around Blue. He was always ready with a smile and never let hurt feelings or bad news ruin the day. It seemed Blue could always help show some one a better day.

Now the end of his schooling approaches, and a change lurks once again upon the horizon. Blue is ready for what ever comes, and is determined to make the best of the life that awaits him outside the walls of the academy. He knows that to survive he will have to join of the great families, that constantly via for power, and position in the Realm. He also knows he will have the support of his friends and teachers in his life to come.

Bay also has sensed change, and recently let Blue know that wherever and whatever he decided, it would be by his side.

For shame!

Not that I think that anyone is uncertain of this, but it bears repeating:

I hate you both.

That is all.

I don't know if this is old news, but it is news worthy.

http://www.amazon.com/Dance-Dragons-Son ... 090&sr=8-1

rejoice

angelicyokai wrote:I don't know if this is old news, but it is news worthy.

http://www.amazon.com/Dance-Dragons-Son ... 090&sr=8-1

rejoice

I'm honestly at the point that I don't care. Over 2 years to get this book out, and the last one was disappointing.

Read the crown of stars... I've had 4 people read it now, and all have liked it, many of whom are fans of SoI&F.

That's not an official release date. Amazon is inherently untrustworthy when it comes down to things. According to the author's own "not a blog" livejournal, it is not yet complete:
http://grrm.livejournal.com/

Then I hate him. I hope his testes shrivel.

Haley........the latest Dresden book came out this past Tuesday, called Turncoat...

Found a link to one of the better versions of Patanjali, if I remember correctly anyway.

http://dailyreadings.com/sutras_1.htm

Im reading Dresden Files. They are enjoyable.