Eldenath Balsara is an orphan. She doesn’t know who her father is and her mother was put in ‘The Bad Thing Box’ for being ‘evil’. She has a new mother, who is a matron in The House of Plenitude and Mirth. Eldenath has to un-learn the Bad Things taught to her by her old mother, like reading big words and looking at paintings and singing in the shower and listening to music. (See issue: 17) She is about twelve years old here. (A Spanish translation is now available, by Hernán Jara Droguett.) CLICK HERE for next chronological story.
Images, story and characters, © Cheryl Moore
Enjoyful read. I am so curious about this new character. I like how resilient she seems, regardless of her inner turmoil. In a way, even though she is being “fed” that her past life was evil, she knows that perhaps it was not, but she will go with this “new” life as way to protect and preserve her own. Maybe a lingering lesson from watching or knowing her mother was put in the bad box? I love how the illustration came together as well…thank you for sharing.
Very nice.
Glad you enjoyed Eldenath’s story, Bianca. She is one of my most precious characters and her story has a different vibe to the previous two, although there are connections. You’re right, Eldenath has an inner strength, which is an important factor. I like to play with repression, adaptation to environment and circumstance. Particularly in respect to my female characters.
Thank you JRD, I appreciate it! 😀
I remember being pulled to Eldenath in the first chapter of your book, just as I am here. It’s interesting to see her in her past and understanding that she does do what she must for preservation but doesn’t necessarily reliquish her memories even though she’s threaten for not… I have a feeling that as I read more into your books I’m going to really like this character.
I also have to add that I think this is a wonderful picture. I do believe it’s one of my favorites by you so far. Though the one posted with Alexand’s micro story is quite touching also. You do have wonderful characters and I love the way you bring them across here, and I think it will do a lot for your readers once they start getting into your series.
Justine
Hi Justine, I think (as you know, having read chapter one already) it was more difficult to write a story for Eldenath because her micro story is set only four years before her first appearance in Unbound Boxes Limping Gods. I was very careful about not repeating or disclosing her experience as a sixteen year old survivor of this institution, but was curious to see her at the beginning and was interested in her coping mechanisms, when faced with an abusive system that she has little control over. I’m glad that you think this story will enrich people’s understanding of her life. I hope that when (if) people begin to read my novels these micro stories will be like extra gifts and insights into characters who are very much alive to their writer.
Interesting situation. There’s some tension here just under the surface. I like the fact that the girl is in transition from what she was to what her current captors are turning her into. Still that leaves her a little vague while the situation she is in a clear (or clearer). I am wondering why’d the Eighteenth State took her and what plans they have for the girl? I suppose you cover that in the novel so this works as a hook.
Hi Rich, you’re right, Eldenath’s situation, and the reason for her placement in this House is quietly bubbling beneath the sub plot of the first two books, I’m glad you think this works as an introduction to her character as she is a very crucial element.
Good work Cheryl:)
Thanks Sheri, thanks for reading, I appreciate it! 😀
Hi ya, managed to read this one, as hubby has gone for a massage and Tia in the kids club whilst on holiday x Fantastic art work, try and back date to isse 1 & 2
Hi Clair, glad you got some time free, thanks for reading this micro story, it’s always appreciated, (especially since you’re one of the few to have access to the first manuscript, pre editing!) Take care. Cxx
I just ran across your blog, which it so is not. I will tell you that I have never read fanatsy (forgive my assumption on the genre) before, My feet need to feel like they can be in the world I am reaiding. I am there in with both feet, meeting and learning your charachters. Its going to be a lovely read ~
You are extremely talented. I appreciate and am grateful for your sharing this Thank you What gift!
This makes me think of Tatti Corram(sp)
“Count to 10 and 20” 🙂
I like your stories and will come back to read more.
Hi Mary, good to meet you, and thanks for visiting Eldenath’s story, she gets a bit neglected back on issue 3! Cheryl