I actually put this check-in post off for a couple of day or so because while I had a funny story to relate (see below), I don’t really have anything more involved to relay.  I went on a trip to see family, during which I ate and drank too much and am currently dieting to combat that, job is going pretty good, the world is chaos but I don’t think we write or read fantasy to want to dwell on.  So, there’s nothing overly noteworthy for me to go into.  It’s not that things are dull, and minus a period last week where I realized I was over consuming the news and bumming myself out, things have been nice.  I’ve had room for my hobbies and been able to spend time with those in my life that are important to me.  So, I’ll keep an eye out for where I think I can have some interesting or insightful thoughts, but for now I’m gonna enjoy this slice of life I have going right now and hope that any of you that find your way here get some enjoyment added to your life via it.

As for that funny story, I have long had this running joke that Quartes doesn’t ride horses.  He doesn’t answer why, doesn’t seem to have any issue with horses,  but he does not ride them.  I myself am not entirely sure why, probably has something to do with someone as long lived as him isn’t in a rush to get anywhere most of the time.  He would rather experience more of the journey, the feel of the ground beneath he’s boots like a world walking Sam Vimes (and if you don’t know who Sam Vimes I highly recommend you go read anything and everything written by Terry Pratchett, you’ll find ol’ Samuel Vimes somewhere along the way).

This of course annoys Keto who would both prefer to get to the interesting places and events faster and also not have to wake up with sore legs from a day’s hike.

Which is all to say that I think with this Against the Rider’s series, I’ll finally get to see the Fey and Bard have an argument about horses and speed and urgency.  Of all the parts of this story I’m excited for this might actually be the one I’m most excited for.

I promise that there are plenty of conventionally (and sensical) things to be excited about in this story.  Doing more with the Riders lets me expand beyond the Provinces where most of the stories have taken place and seeing Quartes up against something that isn’t dragonkin or Fey will be interesting.  It’s means actual fights which are things I don’t do often (as commented on before) and yet the ones I have planned seem worth it.  So, I hope you enjoy going on this journey with me, I certainly think there are some exciting and fascinating moments to come.  Though it might take Quartes a moment to walk to each of them.

Go forth and do good things,

Sean