Bud Gilham
The tale centers on a young Human male and a young Elvin female. These two characters are the sole survivors of a terrible battle and head off to warn their people. The journey takes them through political intrigue, betrayal and prejudices. The two characters come to terms with their own fears and doubts, as they journey towards a pre-ordained destiny. Along the way their past is revealed, as is their direction and final confrontation with evil. Mixed in are subplots, new friendships, allies, murder and kidnapping. Through all of this new love and new life are born, only to be viciously ripped apart by assassination. Death is not the final chapter, as the final battle takes place on another plane of existence. It is a tale of courage, growth, weakness and fear, all the human qualities of self, set amid a land of magic in a time of legend.
Bud is both a new and a seasoned writer. His earlier works were published in magazines and newspapers on the west coast of Canada. These writings reflect his passions for life and people. Having travelled and worked in three countries, Bud draws on both real experience and what he calls : his inner child's voice. With the publication of larger works, Bud has released both this passion and his story telling ability.
Bud uses, like all authors, his own unique style when he writes. As he weaves a tale, or writes thought provoking articles, he interjects his personal concepts about the human quality, with all our strengths and weaknesses. As you travel through his writings you will feel the two sides of the author : the sometimes naive innocent child, and the injured, battered adult. It is from his gypsy life style, mixed with his rebel looking for a cause personality, that he fabricates rich and real writing. As a member of Writer's groups Bud has had his works reviewed, discussed and received praise for his ability to carry the reader through the story, with the care of an experienced guide into his world. His easy reading style keeps the reader engrossed and moves them into the story. The comment of, want to turn the page, is true of his style of writing. When you read his writing, you will feel your emotions being drawn towards the story. Like a minstrel of yore, without the music, he will keep you near the warm fire, as he spins his oratory of print.
When the two of them reached the bottom step leading up to the dais, they halted and bowed in the form of regal greeting. Seline nodded her head, and then seated herself on the plush purple cushion of her throne, Trallium remained standing. Seline conversed first with Raven in the Elvin tongue. By their reaction Cloud Walker guessed at what Raven was telling them. "And what is your story Human?” Seline addressed Cloud Walker. He told her the story of the final assault, the breach of the wall and the ill fated charge that resulted in annihilation. "Who ordered this charge from behind the safety of the Elvin Wall?” Trallium demanded. Cloud Walker shook his head. "I was busy trying to save the wounded and dying, I did not see who gave the order". He replied. "You do not appear to have been injured in this battle?” Seline questioned. Cloud Walker just shrugged his shoulders. "Battles are the chaotic dance of war; there is never any reason, just a struggle for survival". He answered. "Raven tells us you are a Life Giver". Trallium stated. "Could you not save these people?” Seline cut in as Cloud Walker nodded his head in answer to Trillium's statement. "Even the most powerful of Life Givers, as you call them, could not have saved over five thousand men and women. He would need time, too much time. Many would not be able to be revived". He answered. "Did you even try?” Seline's statement was bitter and laced with mistrust “No, I thought I would just hang around and watch the massacre. I get my kicks that way!” Cloud Walker shot back. Oh good, lose your temper you idiot! Let’s just antagonize those who have the power of life and death over you at this moment! He chastised himself. Raven's breath drew in sharply; she could not believe her ears; the Life Giver was being disrespectful to Seline! The woman could kill him on the spot, and he showed no respect. Raven glanced at Seline, her face had darkened in color and her dark eyes seemed to bore into the Human. "You will not speak to the Regent in this manner!” Trillium's voice boomed out. The guards had moved closer to them as he spoke. Cloud Walker sighed and apologized for the outburst. "Perhaps a stay in our dungeon would teach you manners!” Seline barked out. "I don't think so; they would probably get even worse". Cloud Walker replied calmly, but through clenched teeth. Trallium took one step towards Cloud Walker and placed his hand on his sword. "We will suffer no more of your insolence!” He roared. As Raven watched the Life Giver seemed to challenge the authority of Elf Wood.
