Since ancient times, we humans have fascinated each other. We love to tell and hear our stories, whether imaginary or real, and we gravitate to stories that resonate within us and make us feel. Since life is a type of journey, most of us easily identify with the mythological hero’s journey, which passes through several stages. These stages come so naturally to storytelling that even though I didn’t consciously follow them as I wrote, my hero, Trevin, followed that ancient path.

The mythological journey usually starts with a Call. Trevin’s call came in Book One, Breath of Angel, when he found himself attracted to Melaia. He would not have labeled that a “call,” but from that point on, he began to follow a different path. A more formal call comes in Eye of the Sword when the king appoints him to be a “comain,” which is similar to a knight. The king then assigns Trevin a mission, to which Melaia adds a quest of her own.

Trevin then enters the Mythological Woods of the journey. His “woods” happen to be in horse country in the north. His Initiation occurs in a canyon, where he experiences events that will change him forever. Many other adventures confront Trevin on his quest, but his Supreme Test comes when he stands face to face with the Evil One. Though he survives the encounter and Heads Home, he must confront evil again before all is said and done – at least for Book Two.

Trevin’s quest to prove his love leads him to support Melaia’s quest for truth. There’s the rub: two main characters with different goals. It’s not that Trevin’s love is unrequited.  Melaia does love him, but she is steadfastly loyal to what she believes to be her duty: restoring the stairway to the heavens. The temptation to give it all up and run away with Trevin is strong, but she resists, refusing to abandon her pledge to the Angelaeon, her duty to the world, and her obligation to her mother.

So Trevin’s quest is fluid, changing as his destiny slowly unfolds and he gains clarity on his past and future. Melaia’s quest is focused and settled in her mind. Her destiny fell on her like lightning, and once she accepted it, there was no turning back. Ultimately their goal is the same: to spend the rest of their lives loving each other. The paths they travel to reach their goal sometimes converge – and sometimes split them far apart.

Thank you Karyn, it was wonderful to have you on the blog again!  The Heroic Journey has always fascinated me.  Same basic outline, but depending on the emphasis (such as Melaia's quest or Trevin's quest) can unfold in such different and unique ways.