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Click here to visit Soundcloud and listen to It's A Family Affair Productions compilation of "music inspired by Going off Dreams: A Novel by K.E. Nowinsky" (yup, that's me!) It has 17 tracks including a secret track (a glimpse into the second book that's not even published yet!) Go and check it out!

CLOSING THOUGHTS

A TO Z CHALLENGE REFLECTIONS

As you might have read, last year I participated within a different blog, for the A to Z Challenge. I enjoyed it so much that I decided to sign all four of my blogs up for this past challenge and had a wonderful experience. The only frustration I was met with involved the blog hot itself, with only about 40% participation for those that are on the list. However, it felt like much more than that - so no worries. 

What I LOVED about this years experience was not only the outpouring of participation, but how much this pumped me up for my characters. I love my characters so much, they are my driving force to continue the series. Even though right now I have hit a little drought in righting - or rather editing. I wanted to have the second book out this month, but it doesn't look like it will happen. I know as a writer I'm not suppose to, but I feed off of positive reviews and feed-back. When the waters are calm, it seems that my desire to forge forward halts as well... I need to work on this. Other reason include book covers, since the last re-published book cover too so much energy to produce, and I'm not sure what I want to do for the second cover. I have an idea, I just don't know if it can be accomplished... and of course - funding. It's a constant uphill battle. Anywho'ie (I know it's not a word) As I was saying, this challenge really helped me when considering the characters, their back stories and further developments. My plan is for the Going off Dreams Saga to be in four parts (four books) and then to branch out with all the different characters. It has potential to be massive.

I would love to hear from you - 

Who was your favorite character to read about?

Which was your favorite image?

THANK YOU TO ALL WHO SUBSCRIBED

!!WELCOME!!

A to Z Challenge - Day 26

Zephyrus - Mother Wind

Zephyrus is Aella's Aunt and is also known among The Greats as Mother Wind. Where Aella is flirty and vivacious, Zephyrus is easily excitable but also has a timeless elegance about her. Within the realms, the chairs belonging to The Great have been obtained through knowledge and experience. Zephyrus is a very old deity within the realms. Zephyrus' chair was obtained more as a punishment for her. Over time the punishment was forgotten and she remained in the chair because she is formidable, and well respected within the realms. The legend has it that long ago, when He banished deities and His other servants from certain realms, because of their interaction within the species there, Zephyrus defied Him and begged for his mercy for her love. He could not turn her away like other oppositional beings, such as Lucifer. Zephyrus was filled with love, which He considers a true and great gift. He could not punish her for this. So, to distract her heart He assigned her to sit upon The Greats counsel, and there she has been ever since. The being that had her love has long perished since then, but she still retains those memories and it still makes her soar with delighted. She is Zephyrus, deity of wind, and deliverer of enlightenment. 

Excerpt/Descriptive of Mother Wind from Going off Dreams

"Next was in the feather bottomed chair; the image reminded me of the classic ladies in the old movies, dancing around in the flowing gowns, with their feet gliding through the air. Her dress was white up top shading down to a beautiful blue. Her hair was done to suit the timeless classic style. There was baby’s breath in her hair, when the light caught the little white flowers they would sparkle. A classic beauty, her hair was dark, and she was very tan. As she sat, she ran her hands up her forearms and stopped right above her elbows. Once her hand slid over her skin, it seemed like white gloves appeared. After she did this she smiled directly at me and her smile was gorgeous, too."

A to Z Challenge - Day 25

Have You gotten your copy of Going off Dreams yet?

What are You waiting for!

Since there are no Y characters within the realm either, I decided to include more information about the story line and what's to come in the next installment For All in the Hope. 

The Going off Dreams - Nightdream (Book I) in the series introduces you to ever-day young woman Eryn. She is close with her parents and her younger sister Lean. In the beginning they are getting ready for Lena's wedding. Tragedy strikes though and when Lena calls off the wedding the family rally's along one another as Lena moves in with her big sis Eryn. After a night out at a bar, Eryn meets Ryan who she start seeing. Lena is on the rebound, but she has a good head on her shoulders. 

Meanwhile, Eryn has been having all sorts of funky dreams about different beings and something eminent. After the first dream, she can't shake it off and they start to merge into her consciousness. Soon, she believes that the dreams are actually different realms that she is visiting. Eryn's too scared to tell her family though, she doesn't want to have to spend anymore time in a hospital.

Within the realm, she is quested and the adventure begins. The story takes real-life circumstances within reality, while also diving into the mythical and magical realms of our imaginations. I love the characters and the realms - but I'm biased.

A to Z Challenge - Day 24

(image captured via Google search)

Xylo - Woodland Dryad

She has been recruited by Chernobog, a dark and sinister deity, to start the attack on Nyx and her friends that have banned together and have pledged their help in this war. Xylo reeks of her terrain, she has skin that's texture reminds you of snake skin, but the pattern reminds you of tree bark. Her hair is dark and looks as if it was made from the earth, deep beneath the surface. There is one part within the book that mentions how when she speaks, dirt escapes from within her, as if she was made from the dry earth herself. She is a plague, a vile creature, that has let the darkness consume her. Her nemesis besides Arden, and now Nyx, is water. She nearly has a fear of water... guess she's invested so much within her filth, water would threaten her existence. 

A to Z Challenge - Day 21

While there are no characters with the initial U for the A to Z Challenge, I thought I would take this opportunity to share something unique within my realms of Going off Dreams. When I was writing the first draft of the story, I was doing so much research within the characters and different mythologies that I needed to compile all the notes within one file. So, I cut and pasted what I needed into a word doc and went to save it. I knew I wanted the title to be Going Off Dreams since the get-go. So when I saved the word doc I typed in Notes GOD. This sent shivers through my body and made the hair on my arms stand straight up! I didn't want to be blasphemous in any form, so that's when I changed the file to Notes GoD and decided that I would make sure the off was with a lower case "o". It might sound silly, but it made perfect sense to me at the time. Incorporating this within the next installments and taking the titles into considerations I then proceeded to take my favorite verse from the Bible that is about Faith, Hope, and Love. The second book in the series will be titled: For All in the Hope. The working title for book III will be: How Otlen Prepares Eternity. The last scheduled book in the series will follow suite utilizing the work love. Just thought that was a unique little bit of information that you now have the inside track to.

A to Z Challenge - Day 20

Tane - Arduinna Clan

(image captured via Google search)

The name Tane comes from Pacific or Polynesian mythology meaning "man" in Maori. Tane was the god of forests and light. Only seems reasonable that Tane would join the Arduinna Clan as a Guardian of the Light. However in Going off Dreams Tane is a deity and when I think about Tane I definitely pictured The Rock. With his tattoo's and his heritage, I thought it made a perfect fit. Within the realms Tane carries two ancient Sappara's and a magical whip. Much like the other Arduinna Clan members, their whips when unveiled, will lash out at those who oppose them much like the strike of a lizards tongue - with deadly precision. His Sappara's have been handed down through out all time, he uses them with masterful maneuvers, and he's never lost a fight. He's tall, muscular, almond colored skin, with tribal tattoo's upon his body. He has dark hair and dark eyes that can bore through your soul. He has a intimidating presence with a heart of gold. He is Tane, guardian of the forests and light.

A to Z Challenge - Day 19

(image captured via Google search)

Shaw - Arduinna Clan

He is a bit of a mystery. Shaw belongs to the Arduinna clan, which in the first installment of Going off Dreams includes Arden, Diana, Shaw, Tane, and Vipin. Together they are an impenetrable defensive wall. They are fierce warriors with masterful weaponry and deadly skills. Where everyone can trace their lineage, if you were to inquire about Shaw there wouldn't be much information. However, if Arden and her clan trust him, than he's to be trusted. He doesn't say much - at all - but if he were to speak, people would listen. He's described as being tall, muscular, with light-brown hair. He's definitely someone you would want on your side of the fight though; definitely someone you don't want to piss off. If you look closely (if you get the change) he has plenty of scars that would probably be interesting to hear about, if he would talk and tell you - good luck though! If you were to get a look inside of his head, you would see that he likes his clanswoman Diana. Shaw is a mighty warrior - wielding an ancient boomerang and a magical whip. You would think talking to a woman wouldn't be that hard to do... but for him, he'd rather face a heard of Garmounds! The image looked interesting, but it's really difficult trying to find the perfect image that could capture what you perceive as the character. I liked most of his garments, this is why I picked this image. 

A to Z Challenge - Day 18

(image captured via Google search)

Ritika - Water Deity

She's a young deity, shy, and somewhat naive. Ritika fights alongside Halia and Nahal; who are both very powerful water deities. They have taken the young Ritika under their wings, so to speak, to teach her their masterful ways. She's petite, with long black hair and black shark like eyes that all the water deities seem to have. Along with the black eyes, her skin also is the same color as their given terrain.

Excerpt from Going off Dreams

She dove into the water, and I could see her going after a grouping, there were five of the creatures. They were the beasts known as Kappas, they had the turtle shells, and their faces looked like that of a Komodo dragon. There lizard like tongues kept coming out and licking through the water. Halia was swimming faster than they were and when she was near the last in the grouping she was quick, she was quicker than they were moving. Her hands took hold of the shell, she wrapped her legs around the beast, and she ripped off the shell. The Kappa started to claw at her; but, it did nothing to Halia’s skin. She twisted the creature’s neck and it went limp; she dropped the creature and it sunk onto the bottom, where it laid motionless.

Then she took out something. At first it looked like an oversized clam shell, then I noticed that it was shaped more like a fan. She flung it through the water, it moved quickly and it sliced through another Kappa that was trying to swim away. She still had the shell of the Kappa, the one she had torn off, and she took off in the water toward the remaining beasts.

The water was littered with blood; Halia wasn’t alone. I hadn’t notice that she had others with her. One went swimming so fast past her, it went swooshing by; I could hear all different water noises.

As he went swimming by, I could hear him say, “I’ll get the rest!” It was definitely a male voice, it sounded like it was under water yet so much clearer.

Another being swam past her, and you could hear this person say, “Save one for me!” It was female, all I could see were bubbles when they flashed by, I thought I saw a glimpse of something black.

Halia took off then and said, “There’s one left for each of us, that’s if Nah hasn’t gotten them already!”

She caught up to the scene, there was a man, and he was very fit. I could tell he had dark hair, and he was wearing a dark shirt; it looked like he was wearing jeans, which aren’t easy to swim in. He was barefoot though, and his feet looked dark too, like Halia’s. He snapped the Kappa’s neck and let it drop beneath him.

There was a beautiful woman, she had long dark hair, it was floating in the water all around her as she was fighting the Kappa, the male known as Nah’ swam over to her.

“I’ve got it!” she said desperately, and he backed away.

Halia had caught up to the last Kappa, she swam in front of it, and it stopped when it saw her before him. She gave it her frightening wicked grin, and its tongue lashed out at her. She quickly brought up the shell, and this made the Kappa outraged and it went to attack her. Halia quickly wrapped her long legs around the beast, and with one hand she was holding the Kappa’s head, and with the other arm she was using the shell to bash the beasts head; she did this until the shell busted apart.

Nah caught up with her, and once he saw the scene he flashed a wicked smile too. The creature went limp, and then she carelessly snapped its neck. Both Halia and Nah swam back to the other woman that had been struggling with the Kappa.

“Oh, come on!” She was smaller than the other two, she kept trying to use her legs to wrap around the creature like Halia, but couldn’t. Then the beasts tongue quickly whipped her neck and the girl screamed.

Nah and Halia swam viciously toward her. She went limp in the water, and Halia caught her as Nah caught up to the Kappa. Nah made quick work of the beast, and snapped his neck. He tore off its huge tortuous shell and then started swimming back toward the women.

The girl started jerking in Halia’s arms, and Halia’s face looked frantic; she started swimming upward with the small woman. Nah caught up with her as she broke the surface. They got to the shoreline in no time. It looked like it was going to be rough, the foliage was thick and there didn’t seem to be any break where they could walk through. Nah threw the huge shell onto the embankment and then he picked the woman up and placed her within the shell. It was nothing for Halia and Nah, they were walking through the overgrowth, they each supported a side of the shell and they were running very fast through the forest.

They weren't speaking; I could only hear their fast breathing. Then I saw Aella; Halia yelled, "There's not time to explain, we have to get her to the healers now!" Halia was beside herself, I had never seen her so upset. I could see Aella wave behind her, like come on, I didn't know to whom though. Then I saw a couple other people fly up to the scene. Two women both with shoulder length blonde hair flew up, they grabbed where Nah had been supporting. Aella and another woman flew next to her and they took Halia as they flew upwards, and they were gone. Halia and Nah stopped where they were; they were bent over trying to catch their breath. Then they started looking around, and they took off running again. It seemed as if the lightning or fire flashes had stopped all together.

A to Z Challenge - Day 16

(image captured via Google search)

Plamen - Fenghuang

He's tall, with black hair, and hypnotic blue eyes. Plamen is of the Fenghuang clan, who are fiery shapeshifters. His shift is a magnificent, huge, black dragon. Plamen has a connection with Nyx, and it challenges her relationship at times. He uses all of his charms against Nyx... he likes to see her nervous and squirming under the hypnotic draw of his majestic, enticing, blue eyes. He's a friend of Zhou's and came willingly for their cause once he heard about her and her extraordinary abilities. Plamen is a rare beast, so he feels connected (in a way) because Nyx is rare as well. He stays close to Nyx, even though she is fully capable of taking care of herself, he feels that need to protect her. When writing Plamen, I immediately thought of Ian Somerhalder, with his dark hair and his gorgeous blue eyes (plus, he's just hot!). 

Excerpt For All in the Hope (Book II)

Plamen spoke up excitedly and said, “I think I’ll fly on my own!” Then he winked at me and started to run.

“Of course … show off!” Aella’s wicked smile filled her beautiful face.

When Plamen morphed it wasn’t like when I saw the other shape shifters. He started to become like smoke, until his feet no longer touched the ground. His mass totally turned to smoke and drifted upward. The smoke turned from the various colors that he had consisted of; slowly evolving to black smoldering substance. The black mass was huge, and then slowly it turned into the massive black dragon that was before us.

I could make out his four claws, and he had a long tail that slithered within the air above us. His body was thick and very muscular. When he flapped his wings, they weren’t the bat looking wings I was expecting; but, gigantic black feathered wings. His eyes flashed open, and they were Plamen’s gorgeous blue eyes, one winking at me again. I couldn’t help but to smile.

(image captured via Google search)

A to Z Challenge - Day 15

Okeanos - Father Water

(image captures via Google search)

One of the more threatening presences within The Greats, Okeanos is a legendary deity. Some say that he has origins from Poseidon and was present for the creation of such creatures as horses and Centaurs. Okeanos is a described as a muscular giant with a deep voice; he's vast like the oceans and his voice resembles the depths of the seas. To look at him would probably cause a shiver to race through your spine. He has black, shark-like eyes and his skin color reflects that of his origins. He is unyielding in his beliefs and gained his chair because of his magical abilities to wield his elements in a mastery form. One has never gone against Okeanos and lived. Much like the depths of the ocean, he has a dark side that can swallow you whole.

Excerpt Going off Dreams About Father Water:

In the iced chair formed a man; he was dark skinned; reminding me of Halia’s just darker. He had the same terrifying eyes though; dark black like a sharks, and no eyebrows. His body was huge, muscular, and threatening. He was bald, the dark blue skin stretched tightly around his body. He too was not smiling.

A to Z Challenge - Day 14

(image captured via Google search)

Nyx - Aether Deity

In Mythology Nyx is the goddess of night. Within the Going off Dream realms, Eryn is the main protagonist and within a different realm she is transformed into the Aether Deity, Nyx. When I was researching Nyx I read how Aether was thought to be what The Creator used to create the world. I also read that it was thought that Aether was a gas within the stars. So, putting those two together, I wanted a complex character, she was transformed in a dark realm, she is there to bring light to the darkness - she has been created to do this (and more). Nyx's ability is to produce a yellow mist (aether) that she can wield to her needs... as far as the first book, this is all that we know. In future installments her powers and abilities become more evident.

(image captured via
Google search)

Nina - Fenghuang Clan

She is a friend of Zhou, who is of the Guardians of the Light, that comes to the side of Eryn when she arrives in Tartarus. Nina is of the Fenghuang Clan, which are shapeshifting fiery beings. Nina is a shapeshifting fiery orange flaming crane. She is shorter in stature, she has black hair and black eyes, with almond colored skin, she's strikingly beautiful and in her human form she still favors the color orange.

(image captured via Google search)

Nahal - Water Deity

He is someone that you would think didn't like you when you first met him, he has a way about him that tends to put-off people. It stems from his many years of existence and his intolerance of the mundane. However, he seems to come-to-life within the head of battle. His skills are unmatched (maybe by Halia), he comes to the aide of the troupe when they're faced with a good war on their hands. You wouldn't know it, but he has a tender side for females, and has a deeper need to care for and protect them. He has a past with Halia and they like to reconnect ever-so often. He's described as having curly dark brown hair and light eyes. As well, with the water deities, their skin color reflects the color of their habitats.

(image captured via Google search)

Nephthys - Air Deity

She is in the first installment Going off Dreams to aide Aella during battle. She has long black hair, with bangs and dark eyes. She is an air deity and close friends with Aella. As with most deities, she's ancient and is willing to help her friend. Together with Aella, Ilma, and Ilmataur, they form a powerful clan that couldn't be matched. Within the first book, they work together during a battle to take down mythological creatures within the realm and also come to the aide of the injured.

A to Z Challenge - Day 13

(image captured via Google search)

Mother Fire - Hemera

When I was writing for Mother Fire, I imagined a well put together woman, who might be mistaken for a dominatrix. I thought of her as a sharp business woman. Her professional outward appearance could be deceiving though. Her well groomed attire, has a feminine flare to them, and with her well manicured nails and matching lips. Hemera's inner flames produce the appearance of desire, allure, and sensuality. While you might only get glimpses of her black lace underneath her shirt, you know that there is more to what she is wearing underneath. Her cool demeanor is deceptive of the fiery beast that dwells within her. Usually, she is a cool fire that burns constantly and is in control. While, there is an intensity that can escape, and when it does it can be destructive of everything surrounding her. She is a very powerful deity, and let's face it, she gained her chair with The Greats for a reason. 

Excerpt Going off Dreams

In the frozen fire chair, another beautiful woman materialized polar opposites though. She was wearing black slacks with high platform red heals. She had a very nice red button down shirt with a black fitted coat over it. Visibly placed, was a tempting black laced bra contradicting her shirt that displayed little feminine ruffles that stuck out around her wrists and neck. She was gorgeous, too … go figure. She had the same red on her lips and nails, which were well-manicured and short. She had her hair done as well, but it was curled and pulled up by the sides. She had a necklace on too, it reminded me of gold, and the charm looked like a little phoenix. She didn’t share in her companions smiles. 

***

Mother Hemera spoke; she had one of those voices that seemed strained all the time, “Would you like to start at the beginning of time? We could be here for quite a while. You may forget about your mini-war brewing up down there.” She winked at me.

I just grinned. “No, I just want to start from my time so far, here, in Tartaurus.” And then I took a seat that I must have summoned; either way, I didn’t want to faint or have a weak knee experience in front of them. I noticed that the chair looked exquisite, like different colored gases and tiny stars; it reminded me of the pictures I’ve seen before of outer space.

A to Z Challenge - Day 12

(image captured via Google search)

Lena

Short for Lenora, younger sister to the main protagonist Eryn; in the Earthly realm. While they both are sisters, and beautiful by mortal standards, they have very different personalities. Eryn is more reserved and mature, where Lena is more outgoing and full of life. Eryn has darker tones; brown hair, green eyes, and tan skin. Lena has pale skin, blonde hair, and blue eyes. While it might seem like older sister Eryn is more mature, there are times when Lena sheds some words of wisdom. In the beginning of Going off Dreams, Lena is engaged to be married to her fiance Alex. But before the wedding can commence, Alex exposes his true self and leaves his bride-to-be Lena having to make a difficult choice. 

When writing Lena, I consider a free spirited individual. She is the youngest of two daughters and seems to have more liberty to enjoy and live life. Her older sister Eryn is more introverted, and Lena is extroverted. Within the first installment of the series, Lena eventually moves in with her older sis, to not only give her some security, but to help her sister too. They have a strong sisterly bond and an endearing relationship. Lena is open-minded and I know if Eryn  confided in her about her dreams, she just might understand and believe her sister. 

Excerpt Going off Dreams

“Why did you have to call Mom?” Lena tossed my phone toward me.

       “This is really serious, Lena.” I took a swig of the drink. “What else happened? Have you told Alex the wedding is off?”

       “No.” She grabbed her drink and took a sip. “I really didn’t want Mom to come over, but she said she was if I wanted her to or not.” Lena went over to her kitchen table and grabbed her phone, checking it. “He’s texted me ten times!” She came back to the couch and threw her phone in one of her chairs.

       “So, what else happened … what happened after you finally were able to reach him?” I had forgotten how good cranberry juice tasted; this was a nice treat for me. Nonetheless, I was feeling horrid for my little sis.

       “He called back … a couple times. I answered, like, the fifth or sixth time.” She took another swig of her drink, not looking as tense. “He said that the guys had some sort of pre-bachelor party … that he was wasted last night and spent the night at his buddy’s house.” Having emptied her drink, she placed her glass on the table.

       “So, what did he have to say about the girl you heard?” I scooped up her cup, quickly made two more drinks, and came back to sit next to her again.

       “He said that he crashed at his friend Johnny’s house, and the girl I heard was Johnny’s girlfriend.” She took a bigger swig. “Should I call Johnny to confirm his story?”

       “I wouldn’t.” I had some experience in this department. “I’m sure he wouldn’t break their,” I used my fingers in mock quotation marks, “male code.” I was starting to feel more relaxed; the drinks were doing their job. “I think what this boils down to is trust … do you trust him?”

       Lena’s phone chirped and she retrieved it. “It’s Alex. He asked if he could come over,” She looked at me for some sort of confirmation. “What should I tell him?”

       “What do you want, Lena? Do you want to see him? First things first, you should text him that I’m here and Mom is on her way.”

       “I don’t want him to think I’m some sort of weakling.” She started typing on her phone.

       “You’re definitely not weak, Lenora. Please, we’re here to support you. What do you want to do?” I really wanted her to let him know we were here. One, I would like to see him explain what happened to see if he’s sincere. And two, so I could set the fucker straight.

       After she finished the text, she went into the kitchen and made us two more drinks. “Here, try this,” she said as she handed me a glass.

       “What is it?” I was examining the contents; it looked like some sort of orange juice. Once I smelled it, I knew it was pineapple juice.

                “The Malibu is good with pineapple juice, too.” 

A to Z Challenge - Day 11

(image captured via Google search)

Khronos - Father Time

Father Time, when writing him, I imagine someone that has the personality of someone older than what they are. He is constantly checking his pocket watch. I imagine him in a three piece, nicely kept suit. A grandfather like character, sweet, gentle, and kind. He is a chair within The Greats and is the keeper of Khronosis. Khronosis is a form of realm jumping, they are the only entities that are permitted within the different realms. Usually, if someone is traveling from realm to realm and do not possess the ability within themselves, then they are escorted by a member of Khronos' team.

Excerpt Gong off Dreams

There were five thrones that I could see before me. One was made of what looked like trees, woods, and foliage. To the right was one that looked to be made of fire that had been frozen in place. Next to that, was a throne that at the foot of the legs, were delicate feathers, the throne itself was dense and you could just make out some substance that looked like clouds; not like the ceiling and flooring though. On the opposite side of the forest-like throne stood two more thrones. One looked like water; frozen to ice. The throne next to it was interesting, it looked like it was made of some sort of metal; it shone like pearls.

I stood there before the thrones and marveled at the scene, materializing in front of me were the beings that occupied these thrones; the mist and smoke from all around started to take color to it as it floated to its relative chair, the substance took form.

       Sitting in the pearl-like chair was a great man; he looked older with white hair and pretty modern looking glasses. Not what I expected at all, then again, I didn’t know really what to expect. His hair was cut short and styled slicked back, he wore an old fashioned suit, a similar design to the 1940’s, complete with a glorious pocket watch that was connected to his waist coat. He sat cross-legged and looked at me with a smile upon his face.

KiKi & Ko - Weapons

Kiki refers to Arden's whip that she uses in battle. The whip she obtained from her ancestors, the Guardians of the Forests. Ko is Zhou's weapon, it's a magical dagger or axe like made out of jade. Zhou jokes that the Dragon-Phoenix Sword or the Pinyin is like Excalibur.

A to Z Challenge - Day 10

Jin - Shadow Entities

Mentioned only briefly in the first book, and not even by name. Within the realms Jin are thought to be ancient dimension of spirit. They disappear upon direct sight, this is why they have only ever been seen within the peripheral vision. There are no known malevolent documented accounts. The Jin are watchers, they particularly like to watch during times of rest, such as when mortals sleep. It is legend that the Jin, if you are not worthy of life, they would sweep the breath from you while you slept, becoming the shadowy spirit yourself and trapped within. They make their presence known latter on in the series, when we learn their origin and who they report to. 

Excerpt Going off Dreams

As I was sitting there considering the possibilities, I could see outside. It was dark already, but the light from the moon illuminated certain things. I stretched out of the chair and walked over to the back door; Bryan was right behind me. He had finished his dinner and was ready to go back outside.

Something struck me as odd, though. I thought I’d glimpsed something to my left, in my peripheral vision. I could have sworn I saw … something, like a shadow. I rubbed my eyes. Bryan was finished with his business so we walked back into the house. I kept looking at the spot where I thought I had seen something. Maybe my eyes were just playing tricks on me. I was exhausted, hungry, and aching from the day. It wasn’t the first time I had been tired and seen “shadows” so I didn’t think much of it.

A to Z Challenge - Day 9

Ilma & Ilmataur - Twin Air Deities

Ilma and Ilmataur are twin air deities that come to the aide of Aella when they are rallying entities for battle against the wicked woodland dryad. The twins are pretty identical, but if you look closely, you can see the differences. Ilma is the more outspoken of the two, and while they love to dress a like, they both accentuate with their own flare. Ilmataur would sometimes be found sporting bright colored streaks through her blond hair, while her sister, not really liking the idea would go along with it - because she feels more pulled for them to remain identical twins. They can feel each other from miles, even realm, apart. A unique feature, they both have one green eye and one blue eye.

Excerpt Going off Dreams

They weren’t speaking; I could only hear their fast breathing. Then I saw Aella; Halia yelled, “There’s no time to explain, we have to get her to the healers now!” Halia was beside herself, I had never seen her so upset. I could see Aella wave behind her, like come on, I didn’t know to whom though. Then I saw a couple other people fly up to the scene. Two women both with shoulder length blonde hair flew up, they grabbed where Nah had been supporting. Aella and another woman flew next to her and they took Halia as they flew upward, and they were gone. Halia and Nah stopped where they were; they were bent over trying to catch their breath. Then they started looking around, and they took off running again. It seemed as if the lightning or fire flashes had stopped all together.

***

Aella came over with her group; she congratulated me and introduced her friends. The twin’s names were Ilma and Ilmataur; they were the women that had shoulder length blond hair with bangs. At closer look I could now see they both had one green eye and one blue eye each. The other woman with Aella was Nephthys, she had very long black hair with bangs too, and she had dark almost black eyes. They were all very nice and friendly, they liked to tease and flirt just like their friend Aella; they were fun to have around though.

A to Z Challenge - Day 8

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Halia - Water Deity

One of the first beings that Eryn meets within the realms. Halia is more reserved than most of the other Guardians of the Light. She is a descendant of Pondus and as we get to know her more, we will learn her origins and Atlantis. She also has a taste for Eryn's tears, it's almost euphoric for her. But she would never consider the intimate gesture toward her friend as a reassurance or even acceptable behavior. She develops more intimate feelings for her clansman Nahal, however their way of life is not monogamous. Halia is a vicious fighter, she alone can take down a pod of Kappas by herself. She gifts Eryn with a mirror that she materialized from her whirling pool, this helps Eryn when she goes to concur the Black Beast.

Going off Dreams Excerpt

The other was submerged in the water … her skin seemed tough and was a pale shade of blue. Her feet were a darker blue that blended into her other tones.

Her eyes though, were a dark color, they almost looked black … quite scary at first. She had a small pouty mouth. Full cheeks and a smaller figured body.

Her top looked like it had some sort of sparkles in it, milky or murky stars mixed and soft. It looked like a three-quarter sleeved outfit – and from what I could tell continued downwards, it could be a dress.

She had a brilliant smile that lit up her face and I didn’t feel as threatened. She was very pretty with long, full black hair. She was striking to behold.

Tobar extended his arm toward the entity in the water. “This is Halia.” He took her hand and she easily stepped out of the water.

Her dress stopped about an inch above her knees, and she was model material. Minus the freak show of the discoloration of her skin and such. Nevertheless, someone you couldn’t keep your eyes off. She approached me and extended her hand toward me in an awkward way. Like when Sleeping Beauty was getting ready to prick her hand upon the spinning wheel.

She stopped and turned toward Tobar. In her faint voice, she summoned him. “Arden mentioned she’s a little, sparky.” Then she turned to me and put her hand down. “How are you feeling, dear?” she asked.

“I’m good, thank you. How are you?” I said, the automated response I knew too well.

“It’s okay, she won’t hurt you.” Tobar stepped around us, and I didn’t know what exactly they were talking about. The electrical charges … she doesn’t want to be jolted.

So I closed my eyes, and tried to imagine Halia, extending her hand and touching me. When I opened my eyes she was looking at me like a toddler would look at a stack of presents on Christmas morning … and I’m sure I looked like the turkey before it became the Thanksgiving dinner!

She quickly brought up her hand and touched my cheek. I relaxed and she stepped closer. Her touch was cold, like the water, her eyes were enchanting, though. I could tell her soul was old, but good. Even though she wasn’t a vampire, she moved fast, and looked at me like a vamp would look at their meal.

       “She’s very special,” Halia whispered; even though it was faint, you could hear her clearly. “You must come and be introduced!” She was speaking to her friend. She too had an accent, but I couldn’t place it. Nothing I had heard before.

Even though she could be scary, once I opened up to her, I knew we would be good friends.

Hikmat - 

(image captured via Google search)

He's tall, dark, and handsome. He can easily charm his way through any situation. He's a healer and has knowledge within the realms and different species. Hikmat is an ally to Nyx and her crew. "The man addressing everyone was a tall man, his hair wasn't short, I wouldn't consider it long either; it was black, thick, and had curl to it. His skin was the color of almonds and his eyes were very dark. He was gorgeous too - of course I hadn't met anyone here that wasn't." Excerpt Going off Dreams

A to Z Challenge - Day 7

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Gaia - Mother Earth

Gaia is head of The Greats, she pulls the counsel together when there is need of them. They are a collective group of deities that oversee the realms and help maintain order. She is described as an attractive strawberry blonde and while the other Greats have more intricate features, she is more down to earth. Someone you can feel at home with.

Going off Dreams Excerpt

"...she was visibly barefoot. She was wearing green khaki capris and she had on an empire waist white shirt. It hugged her well-endowed chest, it looked like a boat-neck, sleeveless, and flowing down to enhance her figure. Her skin was lighter than the others. I could see freckles kissing her flesh all over, the delicate placement most noticeably on her cheeks crossing over the bridge of her dainty nose. She had straight strawberry blonde hair that was cropped angling longer in the front, with complimenting bangs. She too crossed her legs. Her voice was soft and comforting as she spoke, “I’m sorry we hadn’t presented ourselves until now. You must have many questions.” She smiled at me and it seemed like everything was just fine; and I returned the smile.

“And I am Gaia, Mother Earth,” she said with less enthusiasm. “Now, dear one, what have you called upon us?” 

A to Z Challenge - Day 6

Fin - Centaur Prince

And adolescent Centaur, Fin is the offspring and rightful prince that Euclid and Cloe produced. He is the nephew of Balkin, Euclid's brother. Fin is going through different changes within his species, from a foul to a bucking, full-fledged Centaur. He might be slender, but he will be a mighty leader. Within the Going off Dreams realm, he was the representative for his realm for Nyx and her posse. We haven't seen the last of Fin and his Centaur family.

Going off Dreams Excerpt

"He was maybe half their size; he had dark eyes, and dark eyebrows. Light hair, a darker mane, and dark hooves. He pranced over to us, and bowed.

Zhou spoke up, “We’ve just finished eating, we’re getting tired, and we don’t know if we should rest here or if you will provide us lodging?”

The young foul nodded in response and said that they would be happy to provide us with a place to rest. So we all got to our feet, some of us stretched, and we prepared for departure.

“I’m Fin, I’m Euclid’s youngest son.” The young centaur drew his chest out with pride.

“Your father is very brave,” I told him, and he nodded.

“The elders have been in conferences since they’ve returned.” He looked serious and worried.

“Don’t worry, Fin, everything will be fine.” Aella swarm around him in the air, and touched his face. He instantly reared back, and she stopped in shock.

Fin’s voice broke as he said, “I’m sorry, you took me off guard.” He continued down the path, but he looked a little embarrassed. Aella actually for once looked a little deflated.

We came to a clearing, and before us were walls; massive walls made with beautiful solid seashells. It looked textured, like it had been built out of all the shells in the ocean, but smooth like ice. The walls were very high, and when the sun beat off of them it gave an illusion of water dancing all around the trees. The gigantic doors started opening and it was a slow process. Euclid came trotting out to meet us.

He clapped his son on the shoulders and stood before us. “Glad to see everyone is well, please come in.” They turned and made their way for the gates." Going off Dreams excerpt from Chapter 12 Bionic Brothers

Fenghuang - Fire Bird Clan

The Fenghuang are shape shifting fiery beasts of the feathery specimens. In Mythology Fenghang are birds of East Asia that reign over all other birds. The males are called Feng and the females Huag. In modern times, however, such a distinction of gender is often no longer made and the Feng and Huang are blended for a single entity, hence Fenghuang. Within this clan is Zhou (phoenix), Plamen (dragon), Nina (orange crane), and Vesta (peacock). They are warrior that not only shape shift, but have other attributes as well. You definitely want them on your side.