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In reflecting on the writing process for Chronicles of Ordi: Brotherhood of the Lost Gems, my previous discussion on how minor characters drive the story, by catalyzing plot points, enriching world-building, and escalating conflicts, indirectly addresses the question of whether a minor character insisted on a larger role. It does so by illustrating the organic way these characters can evolve during creation, often forcing their way into greater prominence, as happened with Verdun in my book. However, to directly answer the query: yes, I did have a minor character who insisted on playing a larger role, and that was Verdun, Ordi's brother, whose growth exemplifies how characters can "misbehave" in a writer's mind.
Conceived initially as a secondary figure in the Brotherhood, a stoic warrior brother to Ordi, the dwarf mage protagonist, Verdun was intended to provide muscle and occasional comic relief during their quest for the Otthroite Gems across Asheros' rugged landscapes. His role was limited: guard the group from threats of Asheros, offer gruff support to Ordi's leadership, and serve as a foil to more flamboyant members like the loyal hound Mira or the elven druid Nimue. But as I drafted scenes in the depleting mines of Unrar or the forests of Asheros, Verdun kept asserting himself. His protective instincts, rooted in their sibling bond, turned into profound moments of vulnerability, revealing backstory about their shared losses and Asheros' darkening world, which added emotional depth. What started as a brief dialogue ballooned into key subplots, like Verdun's uncertainty about their quest, which mirrored Ordi's doubts. He "insisted" on this expansion because he felt too alive to sideline; ignoring him made scenes flat, so I let him grow, ultimately making him a co-anchor for the Brotherhood's dynamics. He shines bright in book 3.
This experience taught me that characters don't always "behave" as planned; they emerge from the subconscious like stubborn sparks. To manage them in my head, I use a multi-step approach honed through trial and error. First, I visualize Asheros' terrain vividly: picturing Verdun trudging through cold rivers or glowing cliffs helps ground his actions in the environment, preventing wild deviations. Second, I rely on loose outlines tied to the map I designed, plotting journeys that constrain character arcs. Third, when a character like Xerxes threatens to overshadow with his cunning schemes, I pause and journal their motivations in short bursts, asking "What does this serve the quest?" to rein them in. Finally, beta readers act as my "reality check," flagging when someone like Verdun dominates, allowing revisions that balance the ensemble. This method keeps the story's rhythm intact while embracing surprises, turning potential chaos into richer narratives. Without it, Verdun might have stayed minor, but Asheros' epic feels more authentic because he didn't.
In a world where ancient magic is fading and darkness grows, one dwarf mage stands between his realm and destruction.
Ordi, a gifted mage with the rare ability to command all elemental magic, is summoned by his king on a perilous quest. Accompanied by his loyal posh hound Mira and his warrior brother Verdun, Ordi must recover the legendary Otthroite Gems—powerful artifacts thought lost to time.
As they journey through forbidden forests, abandoned dwarven cities, and haunted valleys, they discover these gems are the only hope against the rising threat of the long-banished Dark Lord. With each step, they uncover secrets of ancient magic and face betrayals that test the bonds of brotherhood.
Rich in world-building and filled with magical encounters, "The Chronicles of Ordi" blends classic fantasy elements with fresh perspectives on courage, loyalty, and the price of power.
Read an Excerpt
A hellhound emerged from the swirling smoke, its eyes burning with an evil fire. Two towering demons flanked the beast, their twisted forms radiating dark energy. Accompanying them was a horde of monstrous spiders, their grotesque legs and mandibles glistening in the dim light. Ordi's heart pounded in his chest; he hated spiders—no, he was terrified of them. These were no ordinary arachnids; they ranged from five to eight feet tall, their massive forms looming menacingly. The challenge before him was immense. Hellhounds could withstand most mortal magic, and the demons posed a threat he had only read about in the academy's ancient tomes. Desperately cycling through spells in his mind, Ordi cursed under his breath, doubting whether any would suffice against such formidable adversaries. Read more – link in comments.
About the Author: Alex Zenk brings a fresh voice to the world of epic quests and magical realms. Born and raised in the midwest, Alex's love for fantasy was kindled early by the works of J.R.R. Tolkien and nurtured through years of immersive role-playing games. As a pastor by day and a storyteller by night, Alex brings a unique perspective to his writing, weaving themes of morality, redemption, and the complexities of good and evil into his narratives.
Drawing inspiration from his experiences in World of Warcraft, Alex has crafted a rich and immersive world in his debut series, "The Chronicles of Ordi." His background in theology and his deep understanding of human nature inform the complex characters and intricate plot lines.
When not writing or tending to his pastoral duties, Alex can be found exploring the natural beauty of Iowa with his family, using these adventures to fuel his imagination and inspire new fantastic landscapes. With plans for multiple books set in the world of Asheros, Alex Zenk is poised to make a significant impact on the fantasy genre, offering readers a blend of classic epic fantasy with a modern, thoughtful twist.
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Website: https://apzenk.com/
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ReplyDeleteThis looks like a novel I will thoroughly enjoy. Thanks for sharing.
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