Wenona Writes Stories

[wenonagriffin]

Quix part 7 - End

It took a long time to convince the king to meet with the chimeras and even longer to convince him to meet them outside of Kobble. It took another long time to get the two sides to talk and even longer to agree on anything but Kate and Orthos were absolutely adamant. Quix did very little talking. His face was half covered in bandages and it hurt to move his mouth, but he thought proudly of the very impressive scars he would have. At last a treaty was drawn up which all could bear and the chimeras went home to their village. The king invited Quix back to the castle and sat him down in the throne room. He paced back and forth for a few minutes, then stopped in front of Quix. “Are you done now?” Quix nodded. “I never thought it would come to this but I’m afraid I must thank you from the bottom of my heart. Know that you have the gratitude of all of Kobble as well as my own. I suppose we will have to scrounge up a medal or something.” Heroism has no fee, but— “Don’t start with Kate again!” —but a medal would be nice. “Oh, ah, very good. Well, for now I will show my gratitude by putting you up here. You can have the guest bedroom. It’s the one behind the stairs. I’m afraid I must leave you now and rest. If you’re hungry or thirsty just help yourself to the pantry. Goodnight.” The king wandered away looking very weary. Quix found that he did not want to get up and so just lay on the couch for a while and reflected. Kate wandered in, looking for her father. “Has he gone to bed already?” Quix nodded. “You’ll have to forgive him; he’s old and grouchy. He’ll be better once mother gets back. How are you?” Sore and tired. You? “Same,” she said, sitting down beside him. “Thank you, Quix.” Preventing innocent bloodshed is what I do. “I meant for saving me.” Oh. You’re welcome. “I don’t know what I was thinking, charging in there like that. I just couldn’t stand to do nothing, I suppose. And you just seemed so sure it was safe...” Perhaps we were both a bit foolish. “Perhaps. But you were brave.” I don’t know. It didn’t feel brave. I was never afraid. I just decided it would be fine. That even if something happened to me, everything would turn out well. “It did.” But it wasn’t my doing, not really. Maybe I was the catalyst, but in the end it was you and Orthos and everyone else who did the hard thing. This hero business is all well and good, but as soon as there wasn’t a battle to be won, I didn’t know what to do. “Wow.” What? “I just realized we were having a normal conversation.” Ah. “Sorry, I didn’t mean—well, I just wasn’t expecting it, I guess.” That’s okay. “...Did you really mean all of that stuff you said about me?” Yes, of course. “I mean, people are always nice to me because of who my father is, but I’ve never received that sort of, um, admiration before.” I’m sorry. I realize now that I was wrong about some things. “Oh.” No, I didn’t mean it like that. You’re not shy or modest or timid. You are resolute but flexible. You are fair-minded but a bit quick-tempered. You are passionate and driven and outspoken to the point of being tactless. You’re not perfect and I shortchanged you by trying to make you so. “To be honest, it didn’t bother me.” Well, it’s been gnawing at me, especially after watching you today. You are more than I imagined. What I am laboring to say is, I like you better than I like my Kate. She smiled, then leaned over and kissed him on the cheek. Quix’s heart stopped for a moment, then began to beat madly against his chest as if it were trying to escape. “You talk too much.” I know... Kate, will you— “Wait a minute, are you about to propose again? I thought we were getting somewhere.” No, actually. “Oh, well, what did you want to ask?” Will you kiss me again? “Oh... Alright.”

[wenonagriffin]

Quix part 6

ree of Kobble, the little band tore southwest, avoiding the crossroads and plunging into the forest. No one followed. Once among the trees, Orthos slowed his pace for the benefit of the other two. It was hard going but one was always there to catch the other, if one should stumble. After what seemed like forever, Orthos stopped. “Are you summarizing?” Kate asked. Yes. “I was just getting used to the quiet. Maybe you should do that more often, you know, instead of narrating out every single thing as it’s happening. It must be exhausting. Don’t you ever get tired of listening to your—” “This is my home,” said Orthos, stepping aside to reveal a large clearing. Before them lay a strange village arranged among and even in the trees. The buildings seemed rather rustic and transient compared to the great brick monoliths of Kobble and yet more carefully composed. They were built into their surroundings rather than on them. They were also quite heavily adorned with paint, carvings and other decorations. Strangely, there seemed to be very few chimeras. “Echidna Clan! It is I, Orthos. I have returned.” Suddenly the glen was full of chimeras, appearing as though by magic from amongst the houses and trees. Indeed, a great mass of them poured out from what had previously appeared to be a small central building. They thronged cautiously around the small band of newcomers, bickering agitatedly. Some hailed Orthos with delight but most muttered to one another with the upmost suspicion in their tones. Then, as suddenly as the press of bodies had appeared, they parted and a chimera, who resembled Orthos but with three bristling dogs’ tails, stepped forward. “Cerberus, my brother, I had so hoped that you yet lived!” said Orthos, embracing him. “More than that, little brother, I now lead our great clan,” he replied, clapping Orthos on the back. His ears swiveled towards Quix and Kate and he growled. “Cerberus, these are friends of mine—” “What are you to dare enter our midst?” Cerberus demanded, cutting across his brother as if he had not heard him. His eyes were a burning orange. “Humans! Do you think you will escape here unscathed? You will suffer the punishment earned by your kind! Retribution!” The other chimeras roared their approval. “Hang on, Quix and I just returned your brother to you. You can’t just go and turn on us now!” Kate angrily interrupted. “I am only returning the favor, little charlatan. Your tricks won’t fool me. I will protect my clan. Those poachers you harbor will meet justice! “I’m not trying to trick you,” said Kate in confusion. “What’s this? Afraid to face me directly? Afraid your careful web has been so easily spotted?” “Cerberus! Listen to them, I brought them here myself.” Quix stepped forward. Great Cerberus, we come in peace, we mean you— “SILENCE!” Cerberus launched himself at Kate who was frozen to the spot in sheer terror. Quix pushed her aside just in—

“QUIX!” Quix blinked. He was on the ground and something... blood was dripping down his face. “No, brother, chain your rage!” yelled Orthos who was wrestling his brother away. “Quix! What were you thinking?” Kate demanded, kneeling down beside him. I swore to protect you. “Calm brother! They are friends!” Are you hurt? “No. But you—look at you! You’re all covered in blood. I thought you said it would be alright. Now you’re... gods just look at you!” Kate began to cry. I’m alright. “No, you’re not!” “There is no trickery here,” Orthos growled. “If they meant to harm us, they would not have come alone and unprotected.” I’ll be fine. If Orthos and I can’t convince them you need to run— “I’m not going to leave you here!” Kate cried, angry all over again, “Why would you say that?” The same reason you don’t want to go. I love you. Go now, while they’re distracted. Kate picked up his hand and kissed it gruffly. “Forget it.” An unparalleled feeling of euphoria began to separate Quix from his body. He could no longer feel his streaming wounds and he was fairly sure he was floating several inches off the ground. “Just shut up for once and let me have a look at you.” “Orthos?” “I strike you only because I love you and our people, brother. You must listen to reason. You cannot pin the crimes of a few on the entire race. I befriended this boy, Quix, a few days ago. Tonight, he helped me to escape. He sympathizes with our plight. He has a good heart and deserves our respect. The girl is Kate. She is the mayor’s daughter. She too aided in my freedom. She has the ear of her father. A negotiation, a treaty, is all we have ever wanted. Now is our chance!” “And forget all the suffering? All the lives lost and ruined? Nemea is dead because of them! Look on our clan! We are but a shattered shell of our former selves.” “War with the humans will fix nothing and destroy what little we still have. We have a chance to prevent further suffering, we must take it.” “But will they, brother? I have no faith in them. They are toothless cowards who seek only their own gain. They see us as beasts, not people. They cannot be trusted. They will turn on us. I would rather die than endure more from those pitiful whelps. At least my anger would be sated.” Quix slowly sat himself up— “What are you doing? Lay down!” —despite Kate’s protests, and addressed Cerberus: I will vouch for the people of Kobble. If you go to them in peace, Kate can arrange a meeting. Kill me— “No!” Peace, brave Kate. I have already dedicated my life to protect Kobble but now I entrust it to you, Cerberus. If my people turn on you, sate your anger with my death and kill no other innocents. Kill me now if that is the only way you may go to them in peace. “...A good heart indeed. I have no desire to kill you. But what real meaning lies in your proposed sacrifice? Do you think our bloodlust is the only thing that drives us? That this war is nothing but revenge? Of course we feel anger over the fallen, but we go to fight for our survival. How will your death help us?” Quix had no answer. “That is because, no matter how selflessly offered, you death gives us nothing. What am I to do if they refuse to treat with us? If they spit on us? Hunt us?” “We will kill those who come after us and no more. We will evade. We will survive. We must endure suffering, not perpetuate it,” said Orthos with conviction. “They may not listen to Quix. In fact, they probably won’t,” said Kate, standing in front of Cerberus once more and this time she was not trembling. “I can’t even promise that anyone would listen to me. People are very set in their ways and they are not going to change overnight. But that can come later. All you really need to start is to talk to the mayor and I can promise you an audience.” We will make them understand, Quix assured him. “I hope you are right, little human,” said Cerberus, suddenly weary. He looked at Orthos. “The high road is lonely.” “Yes, but dryer when the rains come,” said Orthos with a smile. “Chimeras!” Cerberus barked, turning around to address his clan. “We will parley with the humans!”

[wenonagriffin]

Quix part 5

The jailhouse was an imposing old stone building near the center of Kobble. The small windows were barred, but the heavy oak door was open on the street. A single guard stood outside, looking bored. “Do you think you could stop that for just a little while? We need them to let you in, remember?” As you wish. “Good afternoon, Broak. How’s the family?” “Very well. Thank you, Kate.” “Good afternoon, Arn, Cavil.” “Good afternoon Kate. What brings you here?” “My father sent us. We need to talk to the chimera. A whole clan of them is going to attack tomorrow. We need information.” “We’ve already tried, he won’t say a word to us.” “Yes, but Quix here says he can get him to talk.” “Ha ha ha! Fat chance.” “I know it sounds crazy but anything is worth a try, right?” “Ahhhhhh... I suppose. Where is your father?” “In a meeting with the city council members. He had me escort Quix since the clerks are busy. Quix says he is acquainted with the chimera and we just want to see if there is anything we can do.” “Hhmm. Alright, come with me...” “Thank you, Cavil.” “He’s in that cell over there. You can talk to him from here.” Orthos, it is I, Quix. “I will say nothing in the presence of that ignorant oaf! Send him away.” “Cavil, would you mind leaving for a few minutes?” “I dunno. He’s dangerous. It doesn’t seem like he is going to tell us anything anyway. The two of you had better just come back upstairs.” “I would have an audience with Quix and his companion. Leave us.” “We’ll be fine. He’s locked up in there good and tight.” “...Alright. Just don’t go near the bars. He’s a quick beast.” Amazingly, Cavil turned right around and heaved himself back up the narrow stairs, leaving them alone with Orthos. “You really can’t help yourself, can you?” said Kate. “Anyway, I told you I could get us in. What was your plan? Fighting your way down here? You wouldn’t even be a match for Broak.” The other few cells were empty. Quix suspected they had moved the other prisoners elsewhere. There were a few small, barred windows set near the ceiling out which shoes and cartwheels could be spotted going by. “Kind of dim in here isn’t it, and damp. But not as dirty as I thought it would be,” Kate commented. Orthos emerged from the shadows at the back of his cell and made his way up to the bars. Kate gasped and grabbed Quix’s arm reflexively. “Good to see you, my friend. And who might this be?” She is Kate, daughter of the king. “The mayor's daughter,” Kate interrupted, modestly trying to hide her identity. “Fret not, I am well accustomed to his manner.” Regrettably, she released Quix’s arm. “It’s a pleasure to meet you, sir.” “Likewise.” Orthos, my friend, Quix interrupted, we are come to set you free. “Wait, what?” cried Kate in alarm. This chimera has been wrongfully imprisoned. How could he have orchestrated the attack when he was a slave? “That’s what I told father but he wouldn’t hear it. Anyway, that’s not the p—” His clan must have carried out the attack themselves and they were well within their rights to do so. Orthos has committed no crime nor done anyone harm and yet he was enslaved and now jailed. Is it not just that he be freed? “Well, no, but that’s not what I meant. I don’t really agree with—I’m sure he ought to be properly tried but what business is it of ours?” He’s my friend. “Oh, right. It’s just—I don’t think—couldn’t we just ask him where they are?” And why would the chimeras listen to us? We need him. “I’m not so sure going to them is the best idea anyway. How do you know we can trust him, trust them? There must be something else we can do.” Could we convince your father to let him go? “No, he’s a war prisoner now.” “Pardon me for the interruption, but it seems the situation has escalated since last I heard,” Orthos interjected. Your clan has declared war, they will attack at sunset tomorrow unless something is done. “This is grave indeed,” said Orthos. The chimera turned his attention to Kate. “I know that you do not look upon me and my kind as equals. You may, indeed, hate us for all of the humans we have killed. But your people have killed and enslaved as many of us. It is not for us to say who cast the first stone anymore. Surely you must know that this war can bring only death. We must do something to stave the bloodshed.” Orthos is right. If we could only convince your father to free him, he could go back to his people with some sort of peace offering. “My father can’t free him, not now. The whole thing is out of his hands. He has to wait for the general and his division to get here.” “And how long will that take?” asked Orthos. “A few days, maybe,” Kate replied haltingly. “And by then any chance we have now will be long dead,” said Orthos with uncharacteristic bluntness. “What do you think will happen when your army comes? Do you think they will treat with us? They will put us down like dogs, but those that survive will call on the other clans. And so our army shall muster and so your army shall muster and we shall clash until long after the light dies, until our weapons become too heavy to lift, until we are drowning in each others’ blood, until—” “Stop! I know! You think I don’t understand what’s about to happen? This is exactly why I came in the first place!” “Then what will you do?” “I—I don’t know...” We must get him out of here. Even if nothing can be changed, what have we to lose? Kate looked into Quix’s face and sighed. “I guess you’re right. Even if he wasn’t your friend, someone ought to do the right thing.” Quix’s heart thundered madly. “I’m just... scared.” Quix took Kate’s hands in his. Fear not. I will protect you with my life. This is all part of the plan. Everything will be alright, I promise. “I trust the boy and so should you,” said Orthos. “Now, Quix, what is this plan of yours?” I am going to spring you from this jail and return you to your clan. The three of us can go together. First we will have to convince them to call off this attack. After that, I am sure we can work out some kind of agreement between your clan and the king. Are you with me? “Always, my friend,” said Orthos. “Are you sure we can do this?” murmured Kate. We can. “Alright, then I am too.” Thank you, Kate. Now, call that guard back down here. We need the keys. “Cavil, could you come down? We’re done.” Kate called as Quix drew his sword and hid himself behind the stairs. Cavil came thudding heavily down. Once he had reached the bottom, Quix leapt out and put his sword to the jailer’s throat. Not a sound. Cavil raised his hands. Kate, the keys. “Got it.” She took the keys from Cavil’s belt and unlocked Orthos’ cell. “Kate, what are you—” Orthos grabbed Cavil by the throat, choking the rest of his words. Moments later he fell limply to the floor. Kate gasped in horror. “He is only unconscious,” Orthos assured her. We’re gonna have to make a run for it from the top of the stairs, Quix observed. Are you ready? The other two nodded. All three of them crept up the stairs. The door was just across the room and the other two guards were off to the side. “Shut up!” Kate hissed. On Quix’s signal, the band charged across the room and burst into the street. “I can’t even believe you!” They ran for the southern gate with Orthos in the lead and the guards in hot pursuit. The gate was closing and a guard stood blocking the shrinking opening. Orthos floored the guard before he knew what had hit him and the three flew though with mere inches to spare before the gate clanged shut behind them.

[wenonagriffin]

Quix part 4

Quix wandered out of the valley, dripping with blood and drool, but he had not gone far before another shadow passed over him. As Quix looked up it circled down towards him and landed not ten feet away. It was a man, well, a chimera. He had huge, golden, eagle wings and a tail to match. His feet were not so much feet as talons. He strode boldly towards Quix, a long spear in one hand. “I am Ethon of the Echidna Clan. Do you serve the leader of that human settlement there?” The chimera demanded, pointing in the direction of Kobble with his spear. Yes. “Then tell your leader that by refusing our ultimatum he has incurred the full wrath of the Echidna Clan. We can no longer ignore the atrocities committed against our clan and people. This most recent mistake is to be his last. We will lay siege to Kobble tomorrow at sunset.” And with that the chimera spread his powerful wings and leapt into the air. Wait! I know Orthos of your clan. What mistake? Quix called after him but the chimera either did not hear him or did not care. Quix hurried on toward Kobble to deliver Ethon’s message. As Quix approached the crossroads just outside the city he saw a group of soldiers guarding the route to the west road. Quix stopped to question them: what has happened here? “Some chimeras attacked a caravan a few leagues down the road. All travelers are advised to take shelter in Kobble until we can be assured of your safety. I wouldn’t worry much though: we’ve caught the one who’s behind it.” And who might that be? “I donno what he calls himself. He belonged to some performers or something. Anyway, he’s safe in the jailhouse now.” Quix knew the soldier must be talking about Orthos and that he could not have been the one responsible. He had no way of communicating with his fellows. His clan must have gotten wind of his location and tried to rescue him. Quix turned and bolted towards Kobble. “Wait! Come back here, boy! What do you know about this?”

Quix burst into the throne room, causing the king to nearly fall off his throne in surprise. “What is the meaning of barging in here at this hour!” I slew the dragon, you highness, and— “What?” the king thundered. The dragon, the one that was causing the rockslides, your highness, I slew it. “Those rockslides are caused by earthquakes, or nothing at all. What do you mean ‘dragon’?” the king spluttered. At that moment Kate burst into the room, an iron poker at the ready. She lowered it when she saw Quix. They were caused by a dragon, my lord, and I have slain it. “That’s ridiculous! There was no dragon! There are no such things as dragons!” the king stormed his face reddening like a sunset. “STOP NARRATING! ...Oh gods, I’ll never be rid of this lunatic!” He collapsed back on the throne, his face in his hands. “It’s a bloody armchair!” I slew it with this sword! Quix continued, drawing his blade. Father and daughter looked at him askance. “He’s delusional. It was probably a dragonfly,” Kate murmured to her father. A flying dragon, Quix corrected her, sheathing Fang once more. “Nonsense!” The king roared. He was beside himself with rage. “Right you are! and I’ve had enough of you! I don’t have time to deal with this lunatic.” “What’s that smell?” Kate interrupted Sulfur, Quix answered politely. “Of course.” Quix kneeled down in front of her. Kate, I must beg your forgiveness. My behavior towards you was inexcusable and cowardly. I am not worthy of your hand. I am sorry. “Thank you,” she responded, her voice soft with surprise. Quix rose, inexpressively relieved. “Very good, now please just get out. This is my home,” said the king, regaining some measure of control. “It already feels like the town square with all the house-calls I have received today. I can’t take any more of this, not with the state and the slavers and everyone breathing down my neck about the whole chimera issue.” Suddenly Quix remembered his mission and said: my Lord, Kate, I come bearing grave news. “Out with it then!” the king huffed, his tone laden with resignation. I was approached by a chimera as I returned and he— “Didn’t eat you? That really is a terrible shame.” “Father! Go on, Quix, what were you saying about the chimera?” He said that the Echidna clan will attack at sunset tomorrow. The king looked shocked and Kate looked confused. “You mean chimeras are going to attack us? Why now? What’s going on?” “Thank you, Quix. You may go.” Please, your majesty, let me help. I’m friends with one of them. Let me persuade them to reconsider. “Friends? That’s the most ridiculous thing you’ve said yet, and that’s something... Alright, go to them if you wish.” said the king waving him away. “Wait! What’s happening?” Kate pleaded, but Quix left it to the king to explain. Quix exited the castle and walked swiftly down the main street. Orthos was being kept in the jail, not the dungeon. He had to find it. As he strode over the cobbles, he realized what a huge mistake he had made. He should never have left Orthos behind. He had been so intent on his mission that he had missed what was obviously right. But he would set it right now. He would not let his friend stay locked up like some kind of criminal. “Quix! Wait!” Quix turned to see Kate running towards him. His heart skipped a beat. “Do you really know one of them? Will they talk to you?” she queried urgently, before she even reached him. Yes. She took a moment to catch her breath. “But how will you even find them? No one knows where they live.” I am friends with the one who is imprisoned here. He will help me. “If you’re going to the jail, I’m coming with you.” But— “I know the guards. They’ll let me in. Besides, this is my home and I don’t want to see it destroyed. You may be crazy, but you’re probably the best chance we’ve got... Oh, gods, what am I saying!” Quix grinned. Kate sighed. “This is not gonna go well.”

[wenonagriffin]

Quix Part 3

In the morning Quix bid farewell to Orthos and the rest of the caravan before returning to Kobble. This time the guardsmen stared at him in awe as he marched through the castle gates with the great wolf’s pelt across his shoulders. A servant led him into the throne room where he was greeted by the king. “Ah, Quix was it? Back so soon, my boy?” the king ventured, sounding disappointed. Quix immediately swept the pelt from his shoulders. Fret not, I have slain the leader of the pack of wolves and once and for all rid your lands of their terrible scourge. I now present you with this pelt as proof of my deed. Quix knelt and held it up for the king. “Why, um, thank you, I suppose. What should I do with it?” I need no trophy, so I dedicate it to you, great King. May it bring you honor. The king hesitantly accepted it, holding it at arm’s length so as to better admire it. Quix rose. “Very good. You may go now.” I was hoping we might discuss my engagement to your daughter. “I told you last time it was out of the question and that’s the end of it. I’m not going to give my daughter to some madman who wandered in off the street!” “What’s going on in here?” asked Kate worriedly as she stepped into the room. “Oh, it’s you again.” Quix fell to his knees before the king. I beg you, your highness, let me prove myself to you. I know I can make a worthy husband for your daughter. “Where did you escape from? As if I don’t have enough to deal with at my office. Get out of my house!” I’ll do anything you ask of me! “Shut up!” Kate snapped. Quix and the king were stunned into silence. “The two of you! Arguing as if I had no say in the matter.” She looked directly at Quix and he quailed before the rage in her eyes. “If you want to marry me, why do you keep asking him?” she demanded, pointing an accusing finger at the king. “I’m in charge of who I’m going to marry, but you can save the proposal because the answer is no! And you!” she said, rounding on her father. “Since when is it your decision? I am perfectly capable of turning him down myself, so you can stop talking for me as if I’m four years old!” She threw one poisonous look at both of them before she stormed out of the room. Quix felt guilt and horror rising in the pit of his stomach. He had thought he was being chivalrous. Now he realized he was just a coward. He got shakily to his feet. The two men looked at each other, ashamed. “You had better go now,” said the king Have you no other task to offer me? The king massaged his temples for a moment and squeezed the bridge of his nose. “Still won’t give up?” No, your majesty. “Oh, alright. Go stop the rockslides that are destroying the trade route through the southern valley.” As you wish, my liege, said Quix, brightening. He strode from the castle, more than ever determined to succeed. “I hope he gets crushed.”

The southern valley was eerily deserted. Even the birds and animals seemed to have fled. All over the pass was littered with boulders fallen from the crumbling mountainsides. A peasant on the outskirts of the city said that the rockslides were generally attributed to small earthquakes. Quix had no idea how to stop an earthquake, but he would most certainly try. True heroes never give up. One boulder in particular caught Quix’s eye. Half of it was blackened with soot. How odd... just then a huge shadow passed over him. He looked up but the creature was in the sun. A terrifying roar resounded through the valley. A few pebbles trembled and skittered down the valley wall. Quix ducked behind the blackened boulder, trying to locate the source of the roar. There was a crash as more rocks tumbled down into the road. Quix looked up to see a tail disappearing into an opening halfway up the mountainside. As he watched, smoke began to emerge from the cave: a dragon. Quix’s heart pounded. He gripped Fang’s pommel for a moment and then began to climb up the rocky slope. If he could get up there before it left, he might be able to trap it in its cave. He had a better chance against it where it couldn’t fly. There came a thundering from inside the mountain and the boulder Quix was climbing began to slide. Quix leapt to another which held fast. He glanced down at the fresh smattering of boulders arrayed along the valley floor. Quix grinned and continued his assent. He didn’t know how to stop an earthquake, but a dragon he could defeat. Quix reached... the mouth... of the cave... only slightly out of breath... and peered inside... A steady stream of smoke now issued from the cave... but nothing more could be seen. Quix drew Fang and cautiously entered the dragon’s lair. He was blind for a few moments, but soon his eyes began to adjust. There was a dim red glow ahead by which Quix could see the smoke trailing towards the exit above him. He crept towards the light and found that it was being reflected off a bend in the tunnel. He stepped around the bend, Fang at the ready. Quix gasped. A cavern that could have fit Kobble’s castle comfortably inside opened up in front of him. A truly enormous dragon lay slumbering atop a pile of treasure even more vast than itself. The dragon’s head alone was about twice Quix’s size and adorned with vicious spikes. The beast’s hide was covered in hard, ruby scales which glittered in the light of the fire it had made. The dragon’s back was crested by a row of gleaming white spikes and its long tail was tipped with a double-edged blade. All this auxiliary weaponry came across as rather excessive as Quix stared at the monster’s serrated teeth and talons. He thought that a few items from its trove might make good gifts for Kate and the king. Suddenly, its great yellow eye opened and fixed upon Quix. The hero charged, yelling his battle cry. The dragon opened its jaws and let loose a raging column of fire. Quix rolled to the side and slashed at the dragon’s armored forelimb. His blow glanced off with a clang and the dragon swiped at him with a taloned foot. Quix countered with a forward thrust but the blow knocked him to the ground. He also pierced the beast’s forepaw and it shrieked in anger. Quix kept hold of Fang as the dragon recoiled. Dark blood sprayed from the wound. The dragon tried to gore him with the spike on the end of its snout but Quix plunged Fang into its nostril. The dragon loosed another torrent of flame, this time singeing the hero. Quix tried to dive under the dragon for a belly shot, but this time it leapt clear of him. It didn’t wait for Quix to make the next move but instead brought its tail down on him. Quix had only barely deflected the blow when the tail came at him again and again. Each time he barely escaped. The dragon was becoming frustrated. It struck harder, but Quix dodged it just in time. Its tail became momentarily stuck in the stone floor and Quix took the opportunity to deal it a two armed blow. The dragon lashed its tail, painting the walls with its blood. It roared and belched fire at him again. When Quix dodged, it charged past him towards the exit. Quix couldn’t let it escape. In the open air it could strike him from a place of safety. Quix ran towards the gold and the dragon came to a halt. Quix lifted a jeweled crown from the pile. The dragon, enraged, whipped around and charged him, roaring with all its might. It did not breathe fire, perhaps out of concern for its treasure, and Quix dove under its gaping jaws, slashing at its golden underside. The dragon cried out in pain and reared up on its hind legs. Blood gushed everywhere. The dragon swiped madly at him, now with claws, now with fangs, but Quix dodged and countered. Most of his blows glanced off the dragon’s armor but every now and again one penetrated its hide. When the dragon’s open mouth descended on Quix, he didn’t dodge, but instead, leapt up and into its jaws. It tried to swallow him but he stabbed Fang into its tongue, anchoring himself. The dragon, realizing its mistake, opened its mouth and tried to shake Quix out. Unsuccessful, the dragon brought its jaws together with all its biting force just as Quix pulled Fang from its tongue and thrust it upwards. The combined force of dragon and hero sent Fang slicing far into the beast’s skull. The dragon shook its head violently, jaws agape and screaming. Grasping Fang with both hands, Quix planted his feet against the roof of the dragon’s mouth and heaved. Fang slid free and Quix tumbled from the beast’s maw. The dragon’s entire body writhed. Heart-chilling wails interspersed with spurts of blood and flame issued from its jaws. Its topaz eyes were clouded with agony. It took no heed of its surroundings, throwing itself against the walls in desperate torment. It singed its precious treasure and even itself as it belched fire indiscriminately. Quix ran for his life as the huge walls of cavern began to crumble. Once free of the cave, Quix rushed down the mountainside, often sliding down on top of, or alongside, stones loosed by the dragon’s thrashing. Quix tripped and landed on his chest on the valley floor. He immediately scrambled to his feet and began to scale the opposite side. Just then, a mass of rock and earth came loose and plunged toward the spot where he had fallen. Quix would surely have been crushed if he had run in any other direction. “Gods above, boy! Didn’t anyone tell yer not to fool around in them caves?” said a bewildered traveler, glancing back up the slope from whence Quix had come. The tremors had ceased and there was nothing but a great mass of boulders where the mouth of the cave had been. The cavern had collapsed, entombing the dying creature. The gold was gone, locked forever within the mountain, but Quix found that he cared very little. He had won. Quix slid down from his perch to the valley floor. All is well my good sir. The beast is gone now. “Beast? Naw, it’s not the bears yer have to watch out for this time of year. I meant the sulfur springs, see? Bad fer yer lungs. And with all these quakes, some of them caves is bound to collapse.” Quix only smiled at the poor, simple man. “What?” Good day to you, sir. Safe travels. The man stared after him in confusion.

[wenonagriffin]

Quix Part 2

Quix joined the first caravan heading west, his nerves alight with anticipation. He looked back at the city far off in the distance as the light began to fade. The red glow struck the roofs of the castle’s far off towers, making them shimmer. As Quix gazed he could not help but wonder if his love, the beautiful and kind Kate, was gazing back. Quix was determined to win her and her father over no matter what the cost. The caravan was already making camp. The wagons were arranged in a ring around the central fire. Most of them belonged to traders, full of all manner of fine fabrics, jewelry and, most importantly, food. Quix grinned to himself when he found one full of dried meats: the wolves would strike as soon as it was dark. He went on inspecting the wagons, observing, evaluating and strategizing. The other members of the caravan payed him little heed and instead occupied themselves with drinking and trading tales. Quix found himself inexplicably drawn to a brightly colored and gaudily decorated wagon. He ran his hand along the lavishly carved trim of the side-door. He knocked but there was no answer. Quix suspected the owners must be over by the fire with the rest of the group, but something told him that the wagon was not empty. He walked around to the back and found a silver satin curtain. He pulled it aside, revealing a wall of thick iron bars. He grabbed his sword hilt as he leaned closer to see what lay beyond the bars in the darkness. Something with glinting gray eyes and dark fur gazed out at him from the far corner. Quix straightened. The creature made its way up to the bars. It looked like part man, part wolf. Its shape was that of a man and it had a man’s face but there was sleek, dark brown fur covering most of its body save its palms, soles, and face. It had furry, pointed ears sticking up from beneath the unkempt hair on its head. Its only garment was a pair of short, ragged pants. It lashed its emerald, snake tail and sniffed the air with its crooked, human nose: a chimera. Quix had always heard— “And what babe of your kind has been spared the terrible tales, might I ask?” The chimera chuckled and grinned toothily at him. There was something threatening in the expression, some thinly veiled malice. The chimera grinned wider. Ah, yes. It was most definitely the teeth; they were sharper and more angular than normal. They stood in silence for a while, the hero and the chimera. “Are you afraid?” asked the chimera. Are you? Quix retorted. The chimera chuckled again. “You’re an odd one.” What do you mean? Quix ventured cautiously. “I have been observing you. You see more in the world. A town is a city, wild dogs are wolves, gray canvas is silver velvet. It is most intriguing.” What is your name, sir chimera, Quix asked. “Orthos,” the chimera replied. He seemed surprised. “And what, sir human, might your name be?” Quix, the young hero boldly replied. “You see, I am right. In your eyes a chimera is a person. Never before has a human asked me such. On occasion they ask: ‘do you have a name?’ But I yet have pride enough to refuse to answer.” Politeness is a greatly undervalued virtue, I find. “Indeed.” They stared at one another for a moment. May I ask, Orthos, my friend, why you are in this cage? “You already have, Quix, my friend,” Orthos rejoined, grinning again. “I am a slave of the entertainers who own this wagon. This is how they choose to keep me. They are toothless cowards.” And how did you become a slave? “A group of human poachers raided my clan, the Echidna Clan. There were so many. They used their numbers to break us and then bind us!” Orthos spat, suddenly furious. “Many died, on both sides, and many were captured.” He paused, breathing hard. “Forgive me. Anger now makes its den in my chest. It roars for vengeance, for blood and suffering... Perhaps one day, but I hope not. I want only my freedom and my family. War between human and chimera is senseless. We would only destroy one another.” I think I have been greatly misinformed about your kind. I have always heard that chimera... but I suppose you already know what sort of stories we humans circulate about your kind. “I do, all too well.” Allow me to apologize for assuming their validity. If even a fraction of you are so wise, rational, and forgiving, yours is a truly noble race. “War would have broken out long ago had this not been so. We are quite steadily provoked, you see. But we have more strength than we pretend.” I do not doubt it. I feel our meeting was fated. It has been enlightening to say the least but now I must go. It grows dark. “Ah yes, your mission. Something to do with those sneaking dogs I gather. Go well, my friend.” And you, Quix returned. He went over to the meat wagon and leaned against the wheel, facing the dark forest. He pondered his meeting with the chimera. It was so strange. He had always imagined he would defeat them or save some kingdom from them, but this chance meeting had turned his mind. His path would be intertwined with theirs, not as enemies, but as allies.

“Quix!” Quix woke with a start. He was on the ground with his back resting against the wagon wheel. By some foul magic he had fallen asleep. “Quix! They are here!” came Orthos’ voice from the other side of the circle. Quix leapt up, drawing his sword. He saw a ferocious looking wolf sneaking into the back of the meat wagon and he swung at it with a fearsome battle cry. He hit it a glancing blow with the flat of the blade. It yelped and sprung away into the trees. But before Quix could taste triumph, the rest of the pack appeared. There were about thirty of them, all huge and snarling. Quix leapt into their midst, swinging his sword wildly and yelling. He was a blur, lunging here, striking there. He hit one then another. Everywhere wolves dodged out of his way or fled beneath his blows. The entire camp erupted into chaos. The people of the caravan were running and screaming, terrified of the wolves. Quix redoubled his efforts, protecting the peasants who inadvertently threw themselves into harm’s way. “Oi! watch it!” “That mutt was mine!” “Get off me!” Quix wheeled around to see an enormous wolf bounding out of the trees. It was about three times the size of the others and had clearly fallen victim to some kind of spell. It paused and howled and the other wolves abruptly stopped what they were doing and rallied around it. It looked Quix right in the eyes and charged. “Watch out, boy, that one looks rabid.” Quix swung at it with lightening speed but the great beast was even faster. It dodged behind and grabbed Quix’s cloak in its jaws. Before he could react, it yanked him to the ground... Quix was winded but he managed to get his sword up in time to block the monster’s teeth. They wrestled for a while, beast against hero, tooth against sword. The great wolf pressed its saucer-sized paw against the flat of Quix’s sword, driving the tip into the earth. Quix saw his chance and struck the wolf a crushing blow with the hilt. The beast rolled off him and Quix scrambled to his feet. The enraged animal lunged and Quix used its own mighty force against it. It impaled itself on Quix’s sword and died. “Hey, boy, are you alright?” I’m unharmed. You need not fear these vagabonds anymore. Their leader is slain! Quix proclaimed to the watching peasants. They were too stunned by his feat to reply. They began to clear away and Quix set to dragging the body of the great wolf over to Orthos. The chimera sniffed through the bars, his snake tail lashing. “The beast was sick. You did well to slay it. He was a danger to his brethren.” Quix pulled out his knife and set to skinning the great wolf. “What will you do with the pelt?” Present it to the king. He charged me with ridding the road of the wolf pack. “The king of Kobble?” Yes. When Quix had finished scraping the hide, he set it aside and drew his sword once more. As he was wiping off the blade, he noticed a long, curving scratch along the fuller left by the beast’s teeth. Quix grinned. Now that you have tasted blood, I know what I shall call you. I name you Fang, Wolfsbane. “You ought to sleep, my friend, the morning is not far off.” Quix sheathed Fang and slept.

[wenonagriffin]

Quix Part 1

All great heroes arise from humble beginnings and Quix was no different. He was the son of a tanner in the village of Tarren but even from his birth, he was destined for greatness. When he came of age, he said a tearful goodbye to his family and set out on his adventure. There was nothing terribly remarkable about his appearance: his hair was black and cropped short, his eyes a deep umber, and his skin a warm russet brown. He wore yellow deer-hide trousers and a brown leather vest over his red tunic. He was neither  exceptionally tall nor handsome, but there was a certain air of nobility about him that made passers-by turn to look as he walked down the streets of Kobble. Kobble was not a large town. Its buildings were made of lumber from the nearby forest and, despite what one might expect given its name, only the main street was cobbled. What stood out about the place was the unusually large wall that encircled it. Perhaps the town suffered from raiders and the like. At last he paused in front of a tailor's shop, for he was in need of a cloak. The man minding the shop was old and thin. His hair was gray and there was very little of it. He had a small wispy beard and small, shiny eyes. He squinted at Quix as though he could not see very well. “What was that, sir? May I help you?” His voice was creaky but kind. I’m in need of a cloak, said the young hero. The shopkeeper showed him several. Quix selected a magnificent orange one. “Perhaps a bit long for you, sir. Would you like me to hem it?” The cloak fit Quix perfectly and he happily paid the shopkeeper. “Thank you for your patronage.” Quix swept out onto the street and soon spotted an armory. He browsed the selection of swords under the wary eye of a large and dull-looking armorer. Quix was inexplicably drawn, as if it were his destiny, to an old sword that was leaning alone against the wall, covered in dust. It looked very ordinary, but Quix picked it up with growing excitement. He cleaned the black leather scabbard with his sleeve. He fingered the unadorned cross-guard and pommel and grasped the leather-bound hilt. His hand fit as if the sword had been made for him. He boldly drew it from its scabbard. “Oi, stop knocking that stuff about! If you break anything you’ll have to pay for it.” It almost whispered to him: “choose me for I have served the great and slain the wicked.” But how much was the sword? “Like it? That’ll be ten silvers.” Quix gratefully handed over the money to the foolish shopkeeper. Clearly he was unaware of the sword’s true value. “Hey! Whadaya mean?” Quix stepped back out into the grand, sprawling city of Kobble. He paused to ask a peasant directions to the castle. “You mean the mayor’s house? It’s just up that street over there, the big one on the end.” He passed sumptuously dressed nobles and glossy marbled buildings as he made his way up to the castle. The castle was large and grand with many high turrets and towers. There was even a moat and a wide drawbridge. The guards, dressed in red and wearing silver breastplates, bowed as Quix passed. Quix knocked on the great double doors. He was greeted by a servant and at once taken to see the king. Left alone in the throne room, he began to admire the gilt columns and ornate tapestries which told the history of the kingdom. Once a fearsome dragon had prowled these lands, terrorizing the citizenry until a brave hero had liberated them. The city walls were sown with the beast’s teeth and had stood strong, protecting the city ever since. “Good day, sir.” A girl of surpassing beauty entered the room. Her sable curls cascaded over her shoulders and framed her dark, finely featured face. Her skin was the rich black of calla lilies and her eyes the color of fresh bamboo. She flushed, infusing her cheeks with a coral glow. “M-my father will be with you in a moment.” Her voice was the loveliest sound Quix had ever heard. “Er, can I get you anything?” Only your name, said Quix, bowing and kissing her delicate hand. “Oh, uh, Kate. Nice to meet you.” Quix, at your service, he said, smiling. “Thanks.” She stepped back shyly. The king entered, robed in purple trimmed with ermine. He was tall and stately with a royal silvering beard. “So sorry to interrupt. Mayor Jakolm, good to meet you. And you are?” Quix kneeled and said: Quix, at your service, my liege. “Uh, yes. What is your business here?” I have come to perform heroic deeds and rescue the country from evil. Have you any task worthy of my expertise? the young hero inquired. “Well, uh, sir, I’m not certain that I do.” Surely a great empire such as yours must have someone trying to seize it, some evil force bent on its destruction, some monster plaguing it? Quix pressed “Well, you see, sir, I think you may be a little confused... I, um...” The king stared doubtfully at Quix. He clearly didn’t believe Quix capable of such services. “Why do you keep doing that?” What? “Well, um... narrating and calling me ‘king’.” I’m composing my journey into a legend as I go, you know, while it’s still fresh in my mind. “Ah, I see... You know, there actually is something you can do for me. There’s a pack of feral dogs stealing from the caravans on the west road and—” “Father!” said Kate, stepping forward so that she was partially between them. “They’ve been a real nuisance—” “But those dogs are dangerous!” Fear not for my safety, maiden, Quix assured her. I’m a warrior of great bravery and caliber. “Exactly, my dear. Quix here will do fine. Do you have a fee, sir?” Heroism has no fee, the noble youth replied. “Good, good.” But there is one thing I desire above all others... “But of course—” Your daughter’s hand in marriage, Quix said, kneeling humbly before the king. The king was speechless and his face began to redden. “What? But you’re a complete stranger! Why would you want my daughter?” I assure you my intentions are entirely noble. I am simply overcome with admiration. “That’s preposterous! Not to mention completely irrelevant. You only just met her. This is ludicrous! I absolutely forbid it.” Perhaps you do not find me worthy now, but I will prove myself to you, great king, and then perhaps you will reconsider. The king looked as if he might explode. “I beg your pardon!” I will return victorious! Quix declared and with that strode boldly from the castle. “Now what have you done! That boy is going to get himself mauled,” Quix heard Kate exclaim as he left the grand hall. “What do you care anyway, dear? I was simply trying to get rid of him. Did you hear him? He’s some sort of psychotic idiot.” “He seems harmless enough, though. He’s not well. If he gets hurt, it’ll be on your hands.”

[wenonagriffin]

The First Story

So the first story I am going to post is called Quix. I came up with the idea and wrote the first of many drafts in high school. My primary goal at that time was to write something fun. All of my classmates were submitting sad, angst-ridden pieces typical of our age group. While I really and truly enjoyed many of these stories, I decided I did not want to write one. I was rarely sad and very seldom felt any sort of angst, so writing something with those emotions at the forefront just would not be me. I also just thought we, as a class, could use a little break. My second thought was that it would be really fun to have an unreliable narrator because apparently high-school-me was a big fan of unnecessary challenge. Then I chose fantasy because every single one of my classmates so far had written fiction and fantasy was my fave. Then I thought, why not monkey with the classic hero’s journey and use the unreliable narrator to purposely blur the line between fantasy and reality, between heroism and madness? Needless to say, such a story was well beyond the talents of teenage me. Quix has since gone through tons of re-writes and evolved quite a bit over the years. I know I still haven’t got it quite right and I probably never will. For instance, an embarrassing number of people do not understand the central conceit of Quix until I explain it outright, which I admit to being entirely my own fault. Nevertheless, despite its faults, Quix is still one of my favorite things I have every written. I hope you enjoy.

Quix is a rather long short story so I will post it in seven parts.

[wenonagriffin]

Welcome!

Hi all and welcome to my new writing blog! Hopefully this will be the start of a fun journey for us all and won’t end after three posts because I can’t get my act together... haha. At the very least let it be known that I am serious about wanting to write more or I wouldn’t have bothered with this in the first place.

Just kidding, feel free to criticize if I fall off the wagon. On that note, any feedback or criticism on the stories I post here is greatly appreciated. Seriously, even a totally negative comment is very likely to make my day provided it is at least moderately thoughtful. Politeness is always the best way to go, but don’t pull your punches. I am also more than happy to answer questions. I really want to work with you all.

As of now, I actually have several finished stories of varying lengths, lots of stories I have started and would love to finish, and tons that are still entirely trapped in my brain. The overly ambitious goal is to get them all posted here. We will just have to see how that turns out.