Tag: #Exploration

About the Author

About the Author: Update

KC J. Hutchins

Greetings again one and all, just thought I would give you all an update on my life. Those of you who had not seen my previous birthday post, I have turned twenty-four with another year of survival under my belt. A present that appeared with this occasion was to see Lion King on Broadway. Super excited to be going to New York again to see a show I have been yearning to see for a long time.  Also in recent weeks the date for my fiancee’s and I’s wedding has been decided. Much excitement comes along with this news accompanied by oh my goodness the cost of such things, but in the end all that matters is the love for each other. Hopefully with the date we have set we can both save up the money to have a splendid day to celebrate our love… and of course to get to a little place called Ireland for the honeymoon. Why here? Both of our families come from the Emerald Isle and it has long peaked our interests to visit this land of rolling hills and fences made of stone. Excitement fills my very being of celebrating such a joyous occasion and traveling to a place that I have wanted to visit since I was young.

On the writing frontier, my efforts with agents have been less than successful. However, I will say that none of them have said that my book was terrible or poorly written. The only reason they passed it was on their gut feelings. It gives me a bit of encouragement but at the same time frustration. I can feel myself having my goal at my fingertips but not able to grasp it. More annoyingly is the fact that my followers are waiting so patiently for my book to appear and I cannot produce it yet. For that I am truly sorry that you have to wait to see the fantastic tale. I promise it will get to you, of that I am sure; just unsure when that will be. Hopefully in the coming days I will have the good news of finding an agent. On a side note, I have gotten half way through writing A Collection of Epic Retellings of Classic Fairy Tales of which I will be posting another story of tomorrow. When not working on this, my thoughts linger back to the story in Magitotum. Yes, indeed friends I have started to write the second book in my Scales series. Looking on the bit I have already done, my head begins to spin. The very first place that the group ends up in at the end of the first book is filled with a mixture of many different cultures. What I mean is I used influences of many different countries’ mythologies to form this land. The tricky part is blending them in a way to give proper homage to each. Before I forget, if you have not noticed in recent posts or looking at old ones, I have almost caught up on my illustrations. Now, I do request that you be gentle with me on the artistry; it is not my strong suit by any means of the word. I do hope you are enjoying what you find on my page and the posts that are soon to come.

Exploring New Lands

Exploring New Lands: Conflictus

KC J. Hutchins

As the name clues one in, it is a land found in a constant state of conflict. From the very beginning of Magitotum, its sun burnt plains have been littered with war machines and burial sites. Thus the creatures found within this land are experts in the art of war. Leading them are the goblins, who have sat as the ruling class to guide the land. With their wisdom and compassion, they incited the Armorph (dragons that can transform any part of their body into a weapon) to live among them in the capital known as Bello Cap. The houses and shops are made of brown stones for the walls and had teal slated roofs. One would notice that this place had still not recovered from a past war; evident by buildings that still have burns, singes, and are smashed in every conceivable way of damage. Most of the shops have since been closed and lie close to what appears to be the old local market. The stands have been tipped over and the fruit had fallen on the ground, rotting with flies pouring out of them. Looking above the town is a castle; that at one time had five towers of teal standing tall. Now all but one have fallen; most of which have slid down the hillside and into the town, crushing several other buildings in the process. It looks like the keeps have been stationed on each corner of the walled fortress. At a set of bronze doors, the only standing barbican towered over them with a cannon situated on the top. Inside the walls is a dome with a bronze top. The town sits in front of the beach that opens into a bay which have several small wooden docks built on it. The sand is surprisingly well kept other than the few bits of scrap metal and wood, probably damage caused from the same battle that hit the rest of the town. A far-off cliff exhibits more of the past scars with the rocks broken off, leaving columns of white rock standing in front of a cove under the castle.

To the South lies the fishing village of the trolls. Built entirely from stones pulled from the ocean floor, it has stood strong through many attacks. Simple looking at best, bridges connect village that sits upon the many mini islands that make of the town. Huts and small houses make the main part of the area. Only a few buildings stand taller than them, including a lighthouse, the banquet hall, and the occasional watchtower. It is common to see trolls sitting about with their lines in the water and eating the raw fish that they have caught. Though now the trolls have long been banished from their home by the sorceress Delsey for not following her.

To the East of the fishing village lies the caves of the Gremlins. These tiny impish creatures have made a series of catacombs out in the desert; all them pieced together with metal and mechanical creations. Over years of combat and scavenging, the Gremlins have learned the art of the machine. So much so that their inventions have the ability to rival the Jiqeeran and Lone Star’s men. Still, it seems no one has an interest in this race of genius.

Heading back to Bello Cap and to the Northeast is the city of Suregarde. A huge stone-walled city it has long been protected by the gargoyles that call it home. Eight towers in each direction of the compass are embedded in the ramparts. Only one gate leads into the city and that is being guarded by rather large gargoyles who are scary in appearance alone. If the guards bow then they will let you through the front gate. Hustling and bustling groups of goblins, humans, and gargoyles fill the cobblestone roads of the busy city. Houses of stone are tightly clustered together with slanted and flat rooftops. What is more interesting are the spires that are spread throughout the city. They are the tallest structures in the entire area where water flows down their tops in constant waterfalls. From there, it pools around in a moat like fashion before a pipe will bring the water back to the top. At least one gargoyle are perched on each of these, some encased in stone while falling asleep at their post. Once enough birds perch on them, they will awaken; scattering the feathered creatures into the sky. After weaving through streets and alleyways, one comes to a titanic building. It is easily the largest and most likely the tallest structure in the entire city. On the front end of the building ascending several long steps, are two squared limestone towers that roar with the sound of waterfalls that pour from each of their windows. They act much like the spires one had seen earlier but in a grander fashion. In between these giants is a rounded watchtower with a lookout stationed on top. Along the long roof are pools of water that reflects shimmering colors from the sun above. Rainbows can be seen if they are to stand at just the right position from the mists that arose. The back of the building has two more of the large towers with a spire on top of each. Ledges align the sides pouring water from the spout above it. Entering the building through two large wooden doors and past two guards would bring one inside the great Hall of Garacur. The inside is spacious, and every step echoes through the chamber. Spouts pour water into several pools where several gargoyles are found soaking. Down a middle aisle one can precede to an elevated platform where a large table is set. On top of a red table cloth with a golden embroidery, is laid out a map of Conflictus and Mendaxum.

A village half-hazard made with wooden planks, stone, and animal skins to the East of Suregarde keeps the gargoyles on their watch. Here the barbaric race known as the ogre lives. They are not builders by far, only knowing blood shed and chaos, thus why their homes look similar. It is not uncommon for a house to fall in at least once a day in their village. If you see these shaky structures, stay away unless you want to be crushed by the awful workmanship or possibly eaten by the monsters that dwell within it.

Exploring New Lands

Exploring New Lands: Pruina

KC J. Hutchins

Pruina, the land of blistering snow and covered in slippery sheets of ice, is found North of Fabulum across the mountain ranges that surround the frost bitten land. To the West is a vast forest of snow-covered pines where the Howling Winter tribe hunts their prey.  Once one travels through the trees, over roots, and trudges through the snow. After what seems like an hour, they will arrive at a series of caves. In the center of these is a large bonfire where many of the werewolves can be found talking and feasting around it. Behind this, is the largest cave that is covered in a wall of icicles. A doorway has been carved into it with a flap of deer skin that covered the entrance. Upon this is painted a symbol that showed a wolf howling and is outlined by a snowflake, the symbol of the tribe. In this cavern, the tribe will meet to discuss issues plaguing them. If you happen to be a prisoner of the tribe, you are led to a side cavern, away from the main part of the village and the warm fire. Once inside, your weapons are placed in a metal box before being led to a set of jails cells further down the hall. This is a better alternative then how most end up. If you find yourself in the woods with a storm that seems to be howling, you better duck or your head will roll from their silent kill.

In the center of Pruina is a long valley where several small villages of humans can be found. They are protected by the Zimkon, where there home city is found in the far North. Made entirely of ice, the leader sits upon his throne in a castle. Several swirling, frozen fountains lead up to the building, where curvy three towers look over the city. Decorated with such splendid sparkling ice and snow that the sun that rises sparkles magnificent colors unto the land. As for the city, it weaves in and out of caverns with its thick walls of ice that not even an ax could make a dent in, thus why they are protecting while hugging the mountains with their front gate being guarded at all times. Like most cities, there are market places, homes that range of a simple one room or towering spires, healing centers, and schools where young Zimkon learn to control their powers.

Across the valley to the South is found the fortress of Mr. Frost. Originally invited to stay in this land after the Tech War, he was seen as a new protector for the people of Pruina. So much so, that the Zimkon helped build his fortress. Three layers of thick ice walls protect the inner sanctum from attack. Catapults and cannons litter the walls that Frost can activate with his powers with a flick of his hands. The inner building is dull to look at, a simple dome one door leading into it. One when approaches it by air, their are met by spikes of ice that emerge.

Finally, to the East is found the Lake of Smeroza, a body of water with icy temperature that could cause frost bite and a quick death if no one is there to warm them. A thin layer of ice covers the water, meaning it is easy to break. If one travels far enough, the lake turns into the Sea of Maremanes found in the land of Peractium, also known as the land of the dead. For this reason alone, the lake is a place to stay away from and is feared by many. Tread carefully if you ever found yourself upon it.

Exploring New Lands

Exploring New Lands: Reus

KC J. Hutchins

The kingdom in the clouds is the domain of the giants. There are few ways to reach this place; a beanstalk from Fabulum or an icy staircase sent by Reus’ gate keeper. Once one reaches above the cloud line, they are are greeted by said keeper; a male giant with a beard made of icicles. His clothes are made of wool that clings to his rather large shaking belly. In one hand he holds a ten-foot large pipe that clouds seem to be seeping from and fill the air. His skin has a blue tint to it as his dark blue eyes look at any foreigners.

The land itself is vast and spreads above the lands of Fabulum, Pruina, and part of Conflictus. As one looks over the land once entering through the gate, they can see stone castles that stand in the far distance while in front of them lay a town of great limestone houses and marketplaces with pillars of white marble. To those who have visited Graecia, they would comment that they are similar in architecture. After traveling through the town, they are greeted by rolling hills of green and giants in loincloths looking after their sheep. Finally, they would reach a gigantic castle made of marble. Two rows of columns lead to a draw bridge where from two towers guards keep watch. Inside one finds a fountain whirled into a beautiful icy spiral. Four stone slab benches surround this while the rest of the courtyard is mixed with shrubbery, giants, and a pool. A giant wooden hall stood to the right of the fountain where laughter pours out from its windows and a lavish garden stands to the left. Directly behind the fountain and beyond the pool that seems more like a lake; stands the noble house. This is made of granite blocks that are as tall as a dwarf. A single tower protrudes from the back of the building with a triangular roof. The rest of the structure stands with pillars of marble aligning its dome like model.

Futher into the country side, one would find mountains which have been carved into seats. When there is a meeting, the council members will assemble and take their places at this spot known as Radsmode. On the left is a giantess who wore a long robe of cotton that has many patches and holes strewn upon it. Her long hair drapes over her bosom all the way down to her hips and is entwine with flowers. Similarly, the crook she holds in her hand is decorated the same. Bleating next to her is a sheep of black wool that nuzzles lovingly into the giantess. Authoritatively sitting on the right of the sheep loving giantess on a frost covered mountain is Hallfa, the chief of Reus. The giantess herself is not awful to look at either. She has dirty blonde hair that she keeps in a braid, thick enough to be the mast of a ship. This hangs down to her bosom that can hold milk worth of least ten cows. Her body has flattering curves that are highlighted by her loose fitting jeans and a long-sleeved cotton shirt. Next to her is a rough looking brute, wearing full Graecian armor except for a helmet that would traditionally be strapped to his head. The bronze breast plate glints at the rising sun along with the matching greaves fixed upon his calves. Embedded into the ground is his spear while wrapped around his waist is a sword. His bald head is littered with scars; the most notable one down his left eye that has been removed. The seat he occupies is a volcano with lava that flows around him. The final seat would seem unoccupied until a snore comes from the rubble. If someone wakes the giant up they see the rocks come to life as his crystal-like eyes with pupils of onyx and irises of ruby open. The giant has a sharp nose with a cleft chin as a robe of grass hugs around him. The land of Reus is a fascinating land, but watch out for giants are not used to seeing humans and might just step on you by accident.

A Closer Look

A Closer Look: The Royal City of Fabulum

KC J. Hutchins

The city where the king has sits has long been built since before the time of the Muffet Clan. Although not the most clever of names, it has long been herald as a safe place in the land of Fabulum. As one approaches the gate to the city, they are met by two troll guards that would even frighten the most seasoned of warriors. Past the gate the city stretches into a market place where people hurry about the wooden stalls. Merchants are shouting their advertisements, as others argue with customers about prices. Past this stands a fountain where citizens come to wash their clothes. Children run around the water as some splash each other. Older citizens sit on the stone benches situated around the structure, grumbling about the world they live in. Three other stone slab roads branch from the square in the walled city. Straight leads to the castle itself that was surrounded by a moat. Armed men march on top of the tall walls that block off the castle. The other two roads lead to two different districts of the city. On the right contains sturdy, ornate, stone houses where men and women of fine clothing talk in the street. However, on the opposite side is a community of shaky wooden houses. Most of the people who live there wear tattered clothes that are too small.

Found in the poorer district is the delectable scent that comes from a humble bakery. Once one gets inside the broken door they will see a treasure trove of baked goods. A L-shaped glass counter fills half the space and shows off an array of pastries. Cookies of all sorts, brownies, and other pastries stuffs the displays. On a shelf out of reach is placed a basket of wonderfully decorated gingerbread cookies. There are two doors that stand behind the counter where one will find the proprietor. He wears plaid pants and a black shirt with a white apron tied around his waist. Round spectacles sit on the bridge of his nose which is decorated with a curled gray mustache. His bald head will shine the income sun as his green eyes meet you. To most he is known by the name of the Muffin Man and is a favorite baker of the king with his blueberry muffins.

Behind the castle one would find the royal garden where the hero known as Jack has become a successful farmer. Fruits, vegetables, flowers, and vegetation the likes none have ever seen spring from the land. Among the green, one will usually find a man in his late forties early fifties tending to the plants. He wears blue cotton overalls with many patches sewn into the tapestry. He wears no shoes and his hands are stained with soil. His shirt is a long sleeved red top that has as many holes as a leopard has spots. His tuft of brown and grey hair is covered in filth with a smudge to match on his face. This man is the hero known as Jack who nurtured the peace between Reus and Fabulum. If one walks past the initial garden and over a small wooden bridge that has a babbling brook flowing below it; they would find themselves in front a large mound of dirt. On each side are stones etched with the same strange marking upon them, like that of a leaf. This can grant one access to the land of Reus. First one must ascend a nearby hill and draw a pail of water from the well that is erected on top of it. Next they must splash the water onto the mound while shouting “Reus!” clearly and loudly. Rumbling will shake the area, as a giant bean stalk sprouts and climbs into the sky above the clouds. Only then can one scale it to reach the land of the giants. Caution is advised since one has a limited time to climb the great plant. In this way, either land prevents the other from invading.