Extra Reading: The Heptameron Part B

 The Heptameron of Margaret, Queen of Navarre, translated by Walter K. Kelly.

• May be interesting if the girl manages to succeed in scaring off the lord and lady.
• Could be interesting if the lady's secret husband survives.
• Might be amusing if the guy refuses to buy the cat and only the horse.
• Might be interesting if the man got to keep his good wife and not the bad one.
• It may be amusing to go more in depth in how the dying wife recovers and punishes her unfaithful husband.

Painting of a young woman drawing.

Source: Wikimedia Commons

Week 15 story: The Summoning of ?

A simple medieval man.

Source: Wikimedia Commons.

I walk into the summoning room for what is to be my last summoning. I hope this goes well and I don’t get yet another oddball. When my instructor notices me, he says, “Welcome. Are you excited to meet the last servant you will summon?”

I reply sarcastically with, “Can’t wait to see what lunatic I get stuck with this time. Hopefully it’s someone that’s low maintenance. I’ve already got my hands full with all the other servants running amok.”

My instructor replies with, “I’m sure it’s not all bad. Well, let’s get this started.”

I stand before the summoning circle for the last time. After taking a deep breath, I perform the summoning ritual for the final time. What appears is-

“Hello, master. I’m of the saber class, though I have no name to go by. I hope I will be of help to you.” So says the rather plain looking man before me who is wearing plain, medieval, clothes and holding a plain sword and shield.

I reply with, “What do you mean you have ‘no name?’ You have to have a name to be a Heroic Spirit, right?”

The nameless man smiles at me and says, “I truly have no name. I am merely a peasant who has accomplished a heroic feet. Nothing more.”

What does that mean? I look towards my instructor and ask, “Could you please explain what’s going on? Is this a glitch in the system?”

My instructor takes a moment to think and then says, “I don’t believe so. I think the man before is the embodiment of the ‘peasant hero.’ A nameless individual that has accomplished some great feat, but name was never recorded in history.”

So that’s it huh? My final servant is the biggest oddball of them all! I didn’t have high expectations for my final summoning, but to get a servant that has no name is a letdown. I sigh and say, “Nothing came be done now. Welcome aboard whoever you are. Try not to get demolished by my other servants.”

The nameless man replies with, “As you wish, master.”

And so ends my final summoning.


Author’ Notes:
Here is my last story. I wanted to go with a rather ambiguous hero. So, after reading the Russian Folktale unit which has many peasants doing heroic things, I settled on the concept of a peasant hero. That is why I made this Heroic Spirit not be a specific person but the embodiment of the “peasant hero.” For the class, I made him a Saber for no particular reason. He could have been summoned as any Class.

Bibliography. "Russian Folktales" from Russian Fairy Tales: A Choice Collection of Muscovite Folk-lore by W. R. S. Ralston. Web Source.

Reading Notes: Russian Folktales Part B

Russian Folktales from Russian Fairy Tales: A Choice Collection of Muscovite Folk-lore by W. R. S. Ralston.

• May be interesting if the witch managed to flee her demise.
• Might be interesting if the priest's boy disobeyed the old woman's warnings.
• May be interesting if the old man hunted down the fox.
• Could be interesting if the man did not invite his dead friend to the wedding.
• May be interesting if soldiers doesn't stop and talks to the warlock.

A fox.

Source: Pixabay

Reading Notes: Russian Folktales Part A

Russian Folktales from Russian Fairy Tales: A Choice Collection of Muscovite Folk-lore by W. R. S. Ralston.

• May be interesting if the old man sees through the pope and refuses to give him the gold.
• Could be interesting if the bad wife leaves the pit to take revenge.
• May be interesting if the orphan goes to get his cat after the merchant returns.
• Could be interesting if the girls turned into a snake instead of the snake turning into a human.
• Might be interesting if the pike stopped obeying the fool at some point.

A pike.

Source: Wikimedia Commons

Week 14 story: The Summoning of Dante

Dante and Virgil confronted by demons.

Source: Wikimedia Commons

Once I walk into the summoning room I immediate walk towards my instructor and say, “Please let me give ownership of Alice to someone else. I’m going to go mad at this rate!”

My instructor looks taken back at this plead and responds, “That’s an unusual request. Is there a more specific reason why?”

I respond with, “I’m tired of her antics! She constantly runs off and causes trouble for others! I’ve had enough of walking out of a room to immediately be greet by a strange world with weird creatures running around! Is there anything I can do to stop this crazy little girl!”

At my continued plea, my instructor simply says, “Use a command spell to force her to be obedient.”

At this, I freeze in shock and exclaim, “Why didn’t I think of that?!” to which my instructor replies with “Glad I could help. Now please start the summoning ritual.”

I did as instructed and performed the summoning. What appears from the circle is a man in a long white robe and carrying a rather large scythe.

“I am servant class Berserker, Dante. I hope I can be of service.” So exclaimed the man before me.

I reply with, “Nice to meet you. Dante, was it? I can’t quite remember ever reading about a hero with a scythe named Dante? The only Dante I recall was from the Divine Comedy but he wasn’t a warrior.”

To this, Dante replies with, “That is me. I am the Dante who travelled into hell while still alive and traversed the nine circles with the aid of my guide, Virgil.”

I’m left momentarily speechless at his words. How is this possible? The Dante from the Divine Comedy was in no way a warrior. He was a poet who traveled through hell, purgatory, and then made it to paradise. How is he standing before me as a Heroic Spirit?!

I say to Dante, “I’m a bit confused. Can you explain to me how you are considered a Heroic Spirit and why you have such a large scythe?”

He replies with, “Certainly. As my poem stated, I travelled through the nine circles of hell until I reached Lucifer. At this point, reality splits from the poem. When I was preparing to return to the world of the living, the grim reaper appeared and said I had to stay in hell. I refused profusely and a struggle insured. During the struggle I managed take the grim reaper’s scythe and used it to cut him down.” He raises the scythe he’s carrying to emphasis this point. “I then had to traverse back through the nine circles with Virgil, madly fighting all the way, to once again reach the world of the living. I presume the mad fighting bit is why I was summoned as a Berserker.”

At the conclusion of his tale, I’m left speechless again. I regain myself and ask him, “Why didn’t you include this very important part of your story in your poem?”

He replies with, “It wouldn’t have been much of a comedy if I included all that fighting in it, now would it?”

This guy is crazy! He was more interested in telling a comedy then telling how he had to literally defeat the grim reaper and climb his way out of hell! The Berserker class may be a good fit for him! I say to Dante, “Well, whatever. Welcome aboard Dante. I’m sure you’ll get along great with the other servants.”

He replies with a smile. “I’m looking forward to it.”


Author’s Notes:
Here is my second to last story. This one is a bit different since I made Dante, someone who doesn’t have any common traits of a hero, and made him a hero. I thought it would be fun if Dante had to fight his way back out of hell. Hell isn’t exactly a nice place, so I wanted to emphasis this by hell trying to keep Dante there. I knew Dante would need some kind of weapon if he was fighting his way out, so I thought it would be funny if he stole the grim reaper’s scythe and used that. Class wise, I could only think of making him a Berserker. Dante’s not a warrior, so I imagined him as madly swinging the scythe around as he tried to escape hell. Hence, he fits as a Berserker.

Bibliography. "Dante's Inferno" from Dante's Divine Comedy translated by Tony Kline. Web Source.

Extra Reading: The Heptameron Part A

The Heptameron of Margaret, Queen of Navarre, translated by Walter K. Kelly

• May be interesting if the monk ended up staying on the two islands as there punishment.
• Might be interesting if the gentlemen actually decided to hide under the bed.
• Could be interesting if the old man realized what his wife and the priest were doing.
• Could be interesting if the brother and sister are never found out.
• May be interesting if the president's wife and Nicolas poison him instead.

A lady and a knight.

Source: Wikimedia Commons

Reading Notes: Dante's Inferno Part B

Dante's Inferno from Dante's Divine Comedy translated by Tony Kline.

• May be interesting if the centaurs rejected Virgil's plead for guidance.
• Could be interesting if Geryon drops them off at the wrong place.
• Might be interesting if the demons break their word.
• May be interesting of Ulysses meets a different end.
• Might be interesting if the have to return the way they came to leave.

Dante and Virgil.

Source: Wikimedia Commons

Reading Notes: Dante's Inferno Part A

Dante's Inferno from Dante's Divine Comedy translated by Tony Kline.

• Could be interesting if Virgil doesn't guide Dante.
• Could be fun to have Dante interact with the heroes he encounter.
• May be interesting to have different heroes appear in limbo.
• May be interesting if Virgil convinces the fallen angels to let them pass.
• Could be interesting to see what would happen if Dante saw Medusa.

Depiction of the circles of hell.

Source: Wikimedia Commons

Extra Reading Notes: Robin Hood Part B

Ballads of Robin Hood from The English and Scottish Popular Ballads by Francis James Child.

• May be interesting if the Bishop saw through Robin Hoods disguise.
• Could be interesting if Little John failed at begging.
• May be interesting if the priests refusing to obey Robin Hoods decrees.
• Might be interesting to explore what would happen if Maid Marian never met Robin Hood again.
• Could be fun to have Robin Hood fake his death.

Robin Hood and Maid Marian.

Source: Wikimedia Commons.

Week 13 story: The Summoning of Alice

Alice attending the tea party.

Source: Wikimedia Commons.

As soon as I stumble into the summoning room, my instructor addressed me and says, “What happened to you? You look dead on your feet.”

I reply to his very astute assessment with, “Beowulf thinks I need more muscle mass. So, I’ve been stuck training with him after classes …… I’m never going to complain about going to the gym again.” I finish with a sigh.

My instructor replies with, “I see. Well, shall we get started?”

I respond with, “Yeah, let’s get this over with so I can go take a nap.” I stand in front of the summoning circle and perform the summoning ritual. What appears this time is-

“Teehee”

-A little girl with long blond hair and wearing a blue dress. That’s an unusual look for a Heroic Spirit? Regardless, I smile and say, “Hello there. May I know your name?”

The little girl twirls and responds with, “I’m Alice. I wonder were the white rabbit got off too? I hope he’s not lost again?” Alice then starts skipping around the room.

Alice? That’s not enough information to figure out which Heroic Spirit she is. I speak my thoughts out loud, “Alice, is it? Instructor, do you know any Heroic Spirits named Alice?”

My instructor replies with, “I can’t be certain. I don’t think she represents a person who was once living. Perhaps she is the manifestation of a fictional hero or maybe a fairy tale?”

I respond with, “Huh, is that so? Alice, could you tell me mo-“ As I turn to face Alice, the room shifts before my eyes. What I see before me is a lush forest with giant fungus and random doors all over the place. I exclaim my confusion, “What’s going on!? What happened to the summoning room and where is this?”

At my panic voice my instructor responds with, “What are you talking about? The room is the same as it always is. Are you not feeling well?”

What? My instructor can’t see this? Am I just tired and hallucinating or is this some kind of power of Alice? I look at Alice and ask her, “Alice, do you know what’s going on?”

She continues to skip around and seems to ignore my question. Eventual she starts talking to herself, “Wonderland is so much fun! I wonder if the tea party is still going on? Maybe the Queen has decided who to behead next? There is so much to do!”

Wonderland? Wait, does that mean she’s the Alice from Alice in Wonderland? That’s a famous storybook about how a little girl explores a mystical land full of all kinds of strange things. Why can she be summoned as a Heroic Spirit?

My instructor comes to the same conclusion and says, “So that’s it. The popularity of Alice in Wonderland has created a fictional Heroic Spirit in the Throne of Heroes. You said the room appeared different to you, right? I’m guessing Alice has the ability to cause others to hallucinate and show them Wonderland. That would also mean she is of the Caster class.”

So that’s what’s going on. Now it makes sense. As I come to an understanding about what’s going on, the room shifts back to its normal look and I see Alice skip towards the door, exclaiming “This isn’t good. I need to find the white rabbit or he’ll be late.”

As she leaves the room, I quickly start after her and say, “Not good. If I don’t get her under control soon the entire campus could end up in an uproar.”

As I leave the room, I hear my instructor say, ”Good grief. That boy has the worst luck.”

Author’s Notes:

With this story, I wanted to make someone you wouldn’t really consider a hero into a Heroic Spirit. After reading Alice in Wonderland, I thought she would be a perfect fit. I again didn’t change anything about the original story because I wanted to focus on Alice as a character. I thought it would be interesting to show how she is somewhat arrogant and haughty in the way she acts by having her ignore her master. I also thought it would be fun to show that she has started to go mad by having her talk to herself and think she is in wonderland. Finally, I made her a Caster because she fits the class and it allows the use of Wonderland in amusing ways.

Bibliography. "Alice in Wonderland" from Alice's Adventures in Wonderland by Lewis Carroll. Web Source.

Reading Notes: Alice in Wonderland Part B

Alice in Wonderland from Alice's Adventures in Wonderland by Lewis Carroll.

• Might be funny if Alice promptly decides to leave the tea party after seeing who was attending.
• Could be funny if Alice got completely fed up with the madness of wonderland and just punched the mad hatter in the face.
• May be interesting the if the King and queen get into an argument and the queen executes the king.
• May be interesting if Alice decided to leave after being told too.
• Might be interesting if the story did not ended when the Alice was attacked by the cards.

The King and Queen of Hearts arguing over beheading the Cheshire Cat.

Source: Wikimedia Commons.

Reading Notes: Alice in Wonderland Part A

Alice in Wonderland from Alice's Adventures in Wonderland by Lewis Carroll.

• Could be interesting if Alice didn't follow the rabbit and never made it to wonderland.
• It might be interesting, as gruesome as it may be, that the bottle was actually poison.
• Might be interesting if Alice gets fed up with the caterpillar and storms off.
• Could be interesting if Alice Skips entering the house after getting annoyed by the Footman.
• May be interesting if Alice hauled the pig around for the rest of the story.

Statue of Alice in Wonderland.

Source: Wikimedia Commons.

Extra Reading Notes: Robin Hood Part A

Ballads of Robin Hood from The English and Scottish Popular Ballads by Francis James Child.

• May be interesting to make Robin Hood woman.
• Could be interesting if Little John did not join Robin Hood.
• May be fun if Robin Hood's disguise is seen through.
• Might be interesting if the Shepherd joined Robin Hood.
• May be interesting if Robin hood actually won any of these contests with others.

Statue of Robin Hood dueling Little John.

Source: Wikimedia Commons

Week 12 story: The Summoning of Beowulf

Beowulf facing the dragon.

Source: Wikimedia Commons

I walk into the summoning room yet again. I guess I need to summon more Heroic Spirits. When my instructor sees me, he says, “Are you alright?”

I respond in a sarcastic manner with, “Yeah, totally. You know how it is, having seven Heroic Spirits running around in my room is a blast!”

My instructor frowns and says, “That bad huh?” To this I respond with, “Yeah, it’s that bad: Pygmalion is constantly trying to sculpt more statues, Odysseus and Yamato are sparring all the time, Sindbad won’t shut up about his stories, Psyche and Cupid are constantly flirting with each other, and finally, Sun Wu Kung and Raja Rasula keep disappearing to who knows where.”

After hearing this, my instructor replies with, “Well, hang in there just a bit more. You only need to summon four more servants until we have collected enough data to make the final adjustments to the summoning system.”

I reply with, “Four more huh? Alright, then let’s get this over with.”

I perform the summoning ritual that has become second nature to me. What appears is-

“I am Beowulf, mighty warrior of the Geatsland, and have been summoned to the servant class Saber. May I great strength bring you victory, master.”

So says the tall, muscular, man standing before me. He’s wearing what looks like Viking armor, has his long brown hair tied back, and is wielding an impressive looking sword.

Beowulf, is it? He is a hero from ancient Geatsland that is said to have had the strength of thirty men. His legends say he used his great strength to fell a man-eating giant, Grendel, and the giant’s monster-mother. The legends go on to say that he bravely faced a fierce dragon and won but ended up losing his life in the process. Beowulf will make an excellent servant!

I say to Beowulf, “It’s nice to meet you Beowulf. Your strength will definitely be valuable. I can’t wait to work will such a strong hero!”

At my words, Beowulf frowns and timidly says, “I feel I must inform you, master, that I’m not the actually Beowulf but the personification of him. In other words, I am a false Heroic Spirit that has taken on the appearance of a real hero.”

Wait, What? I reply with, “I’m not sure what you’re trying to say? You’re not Beowulf but you have been summoned as Beowulf?”

Beowulf replies with, “Yes, that is correct. My real name is Wiglaf. In life I was a good friend of Beowulf but in death, I am summoned as him. Even I am not sure why this is”

Hearing this, my instructor speaks up, “These kinds of occurrences are possible. If the actually Heroic spirit cannot be summoned, a substitute will be summoned in its place. These substitutes are typically considered to be very similar to the actually Heroic Spirit. That is why Wiglaf is here.”

I see so that’s the case. Well, whatever. I’ve got enough oddities in my servants. What’s one more? I say to Beowulf, “So that’s why. Well, it doesn’t matter to me. Welcome Aboard, Beowulf.”

Beowulf responds with, “Thank you, master.”


Author’s Notes:
Here is my latest story. I didn’t write any stories in the Native American section because I couldn’t figure out a good way to write one with the way those stories were presented. So, I decided to wait until the next section. I went with Beowulf because he is pretty much a classic definition of what a hero is. That made his story pretty easy to write. However, I wanted some kind of twist in the story and that’s when I decided to have Wiglaf appear as Beowulf. I that it would be an amusing twist. Other than that, I didn’t alter anything of the original tale.

Bibliography. "Beowulf" from The Story of Beowulf by Strafford Riggs. Web Source.

Reading Notes: Beowulf Part B

Beowulf from The Story of Beowulf by Strafford Riggs.

• May be interesting if Beowulf slept through the entire attack of Grendel.
• Could be fun if Beowulf followed Grendel into the mist.
• May be interesting if Beowulf left before Grendel's mother attacked.
• May be funny if the boat is gone when they go to set sail home.
• Could be interesting if Beowulf survived against the dragon.

Beowulf and Wiglaf.

Source: Wikimedia Commons

Reading Notes: Beowulf Part A

Beowulf from The Story of Beowulf by Strafford Riggs.

• May be fun to have Sigmund replace Beowulf.
• Might be fun to have the wander sing about something else.
• Could be interesting if Beowulf is not allowed to go fight Grendel.
• Could be funny if Beowulf and co ended up lost in the forest.
• May be fun if Beowulf loses he temper and beats up Unferth.

Beowulf triumphant.

Source: Wikimedia Commons

Extra Reading Notes: Faerie Queen - Britomart Part B

The Faerie Queene from Stories from the Faerie Queene by Mary Macleod.

• May be fun if Britomart dreamed the whole procession scene.
• Might be interesting if Britomart killed the Enchanter before he removed the spell.
• Could be interesting if Britomart sees through the two false ladies.
• May be interesting if the savage knight had won the tourney.
• Could be fun if Britomart ends up with a tragic ending instead.

A knight on a stead.

Source: Flickr

Reading Notes: Native American Marriage Tales Part B

Native American Marriage Tales from Tales of the North American Indians by Stith Thompson.

• May be interesting if the girl never learns about the pups human forms.
• Could be interesting if the man never marries the deer.
• May be interesting if the Indian people find out about the whole reviving thing.
• May be fun if the poor girl actually remembers her promise to the turkeys.
• Could be interesting if the the story of the true bride did not have such a happy ending.

A deer with big antlers.

Source: Wikimedia Commons

Reading Notes: Native American Marriage Tales Part A

Native American Marriage Tales from Tales of the North American Indians by Stith Thompson.

• May be interesting if the man never met his wife and child again in the first story.
• Could be interesting if the bull never marries the girl.
• Could be fun to retell the Splinter-Foot-Girl in a modern setting.
• May be interesting to go more in depth in the story about the fox.
• Might be interesting if the bear did not die but continued being the lover of the elder sister.

A bear.

Source: Wikimedia Commons

Extra Reading Notes: Faerie Queen - Britomart Part A

The Faerie Queene from Stories from the Faerie Queene by Mary Macleod.

• Might be interesting if Britomart went with Arthur and Guyon.
• Could be interesting if the lady of the castle was a prince instead.
• May be interesting to see what would happen if Britomart never went searching for Artegall.
• Could be fun to have all the knights in the shed try and defeat Britomart.
• May be interesting to have the tale told from the squires point of view.

Two knights jousting.

Source: Wikimedia Commons

Reading Notes: Native American Hero Tales Part B

 Native American Hero Tales from Tales of the North American Indians by Stith Thompson.

• Might be interesting to explore what would happen if the boy did not become human again.
• Might be fun to explore how the mother came back to life.
• Could be fun if the story of the boys is nothing but a dream.
• Mat be interesting if Wemicus wins at the end.
• Could be interesting if both daughters married dirt boy.

Painting of Native american Women gathering water.

Source: Wikimedia Commons 

Reading Notes: Native American Hero Tales Part A

Native American Hero Tales from Tales of the North American Indians by Stith Thompson.

• May be interesting if the boy continued acting like a girl.
• Could be interesting to explore why Unnatural Uncle is the way he is.
• Could be interesting to see what would happen if Bluejay failed a challenge.
• Might be interesting if the mother never recognizes her son.
• Could be fun to expand upon Jonayaíyin.

A blue jay.

Source: Wikimedia Commons

Week 8 Progres

Overall, I'm extremely happy with my progress at the moment. At the end of this assignment, I will have 276 points of the 410 I'm shooting for. That means I will only need 134 more points. I'm just about to start week 10 and I've been averaging 2 weeks worth of assignments per one actual week. So, I should be done in about 2-2.5 weeks. My current plan has been working so far, so I don't think I need to change anything. Just need to keep on pushing through.

 The classic Rosie the Riveter motivation poster.

Source: Wikimedia Commons

Week 8 Comments and Feedback

I haven't done a whole lot in regards to feedback and commenting due to my accelerated progress plan. However, I've still received some good feedback from my fellow students. Some of that feedback I've taken into consideration for my storybook and there's a small amount that I've disregarded since it doesn't fit my storybook. Overall, I've enjoyed seeing what others think of my writing.

With regards to feedback given, I haven'y really done much of that so I won't comment on it. Similarly, I haven't comment much on my fellow students stories so I won't comment on that either. Looking forward, I'm probably not going to change anything since my current progress plan is working out.

That cat know how to work a computer alright.

Source: Growth Mindset Resources.

I chose this image because I think patterns in feedback is really important. Not all feedback is good or relevant to whatever is being critiqued. So, if there's a pattern of very similar feedback being given from different sources, then that feedback is something that should be really considered. 

Week 8 Reading and Writing

I've really enjoyed the reading and writing in this class. There's plenty of options in every unit so I've never felt like I had to read something I didn't want too. Writing wise, I've pretty much been able to write whatever I wanted which has been a lot of fun. My favorite reading so far would probably have to be Cupid and Psyche. There was just something about that myth that just grabbed my attention from start to finish. Moving on, I would have to say that I'm pretty pleased with how my storybook is turning out. That's actually become my favorite part of the class.

Favorite image wise, this one would have to be it:

Odysseus and the sirens by H.J. Draper.

Source: Wikimedia Commons

I can't help but chuckle when I see this image because of the faces of Odysseus and his crew. Looking ahead, I can't really think of anything different I want to do with the reading and writing. My writing skills aren't the best so improving those may help my stories, but that's about the only thing that comes to mind.

Extra Reading Notes: Japanese Fairy Tales (Lang) Part A

Japanese Fairy Tales (Lang) From The Violet Fairy Book by Andrew Lang.

• Could be interesting to explore what would happen if the frogs actually went to their destinations.
• Might be fun if the Mountain spirit stop granting the stonecutter's wishes and he was stuck in whatever his last form was.
• Might be interesting if the girl never got married and continued wearing the wooden helmet for her entire life.
• May be fun to retell the Envious Neighbor in a modern setting.
• Could be interesting if the old woman has a change of heart after meeting the sparrow again.
• Might be interesting to explore that the original owners of Gon and Koma did after the cats ran away.

Japanese style painting of a sparrow.

Source: Pixabay

Week 9 story: The Summoning of the Monkey King

Painting of Sun Wu Kung and the Jade Rabbit.

Source: Wikimedia Commons

As I walk into the room, I hear my instructor say, "Good morning. Here to summon another servant?"

I reply with, "Seems like it. I don't know why the head teacher keeps having me summon more servants. You'd think summing six different servants would be enough."

My instructor replies with, "She never told you? It’s because you have a high affinity with Heroic Spirits. This allows you to summon multiple servants where normally a person can have only one. In short, this makes you a great candidate to test the summoning system.”

After hearing this, I respond with, “So I’m a guinea pig?”

He replies with, “Essentially.”

I sigh, “Great. Let’s just get this over with.”

I perform the summoning procedure as usual and what appears is-

“A MONKEY!”

– I see a monkey about the size of a small man, wearing gold colored traditional Japanese clothing, and carrying a long pole.

As I’m exasperated at the sight before me, the monkey jumps into the air and does a somersault and then vanishes. I look around the room trying to see where he went until I hear a voice behind me, “I’m not just any monkey. I am Sun Wu Kung, The venerable sun, the Monkey King and the Great Saint who is Heaven’s Equal.”

As I hear this, I turn around only to find that he has vanished again. So, my new servant is Sun Wu Kung. Legends say he was an extraordinary monkey who learned magic and the secrets of immortality from a saint. The legends go on to say that he led the monkeys to great prosperity, defeated many strong foes, and gained the mystical pole Ruyi Jingu Bang. Though, the legends also say he caused a lot of trouble from many people and also ran amok in the heavens. This led to Sun Wu Kung being sealed away by the Buddha until a time where he could redeem himself. This occurred during the legend of Xuanzang and his Journey to the West.

As I’m pondering Sun Wu Kung’s legends, I hear his voice to my right, “By the way, I’m of the Lancer class.” As I turn to look at him, I’m greeted by the end of his pole which has been extended from where he stands.

I reply with, “I kind of figured that out. Anyways, it’s nice to meet you Sun Wu Kung.”

He retracts his pole and says, “How disrespectful! You dare call someone as great as I by my name?! You may refer to me only by the title Great Saint!” He puffs out his chest with great pride.

Why this little monkey! Fine, I’ll play be his rules, “As you wish, Great Saint.”

Upon hearing my reply, He replies with” Excellent! Now, let’s go! There is much I wish to do while I have this body. Firstly, we must reestablish my great monkey tribe.”

Sun Wu Kung walks swiftly out of the room before I can reply.

I sigh and say, “I’ve got a bad feeling about my future.”

Author's Notes:

I started the story by explaining why the main character for my stories are all the same. I figured I might want to do this because my weekly stories kind of play of each other. In regards to Sun Wu Kung's tale, I didn't alter any details of his original story. Instead, I wanted to focus on his characterization. This led me to writing him as having a haughty personality since that's the impression I got from the original tale. He was always causing trouble for others without so much as thinking about the consequences. Finally, I wanted to emphasize his abilities some how. This ended up taking the form of teleportation since I though that would be a close comparison to his cloud somersaults.

Bibliography. "Monkey King" from The Chinese Fairy Book by R. Wilhelm. Web Source.

Wikipedia Trails: From Ruyi Jingu Bang to Lernaean_Hydra

I started at the article on the Ruyi Jingu Bang. I wanted to learn more about the staff because my next storytelling is about Sun Wu Kung.

This lead me to the article on Yu the Great. I was curious about him since he was the original owner of the Ruyi Jingu Bang.

I then ended up at the article on Xiangliu. I wanted to see what kind of creature this nine headed serpent that Yu the Great killed was.

Finally, I ended up at the article on the Lernaean_Hydra. Xiangliu was practically a hydra so I wanted to leaner more about hydras.

Painted Portrait of Yu the Great.

Source: Wikimedia Commons

Reading Notes: The Monkey King Sun Wu Kung Part B

The Monkey King from The Chinese Fairy Book by R. Wilhelm.

• Still think Wu Kung should be punished for his behavior.
• Might be interesting to see what the apes did for ten years while Wu Kung was away.
• Could be fun to see what would happen if Wu Kung is not satisfied with his new title.
• Someone really needs to teach this ape a lesson, perhaps a hero from another tale.
• May be interesting if Wu Kung never is released.

Sun Wu Kung as he appears in The Journey to the West.

Source: Wikimedia Commons

Reading Notes: The Monkey King Sun Wu Kung Part A

The Monkey King from The Chinese Fairy Book by R. Wilhelm.

• Could be fun to explore the nine years before he crosses the sea.
• Might be interesting to see what would happen if Wu Kung failed to understand his master's meaning and did not visit him at night.
• May be interesting if Wu Kung was not banished by his master.
• Wu Kung is kind of a jerk to a lot of people, so it might be interesting if he gets replayed for that in some way.
• May be interesting to have this tale repeated to an audience. 

A shrine dedicated to Sun Wu Kung.

Source: Flickr

Wikipedia Trails: From Chūjō-hime to Queen Elizabeth

I started at the article on Chūjō-hime. I was curious if there was more information about Hase-Hime than just her story.

Next, I found myself at the article on Cinderella. Hase-Hime was likened to Cinderella, so I was curious about her since I've only seen the Disney version of her tale.

This lead me to the article on Cordelia of Britain. Again, she was said to be like Cinderella so I wanted to see how.

Finally, I arrived at the article on Queen Elizabeth. Cordelia was said to be a heroic queen like Queen Elizabeth. So, I wanted to see how this was since I've never really looked into Queen Elizabeth.

Painting of Queen Elizabeth when she was a princess.

Source: Wikimedia Commons

Extra Reading Notes: Japanese Fairy Tales Part B

Japanese Fairy Tales by Yei Theodora Ozaki

• Might be interesting to have Yamato or Kintaro replace the priest.
• Could be interesting to see what would happen if the priest obeyed the old woman.
• May be interesting if the old woman isn't the goblin.
• Might be fun to have the ogre be the old woman from the last story.
• Could be interesting if Hase-Hime's father got tired of his wife's lies and forced her out.

Woodblock painting of Hase-Hime.

Source: Wikipedia

Week 7 story: The Summoning of Yamato Takeru

Statue of Yamato Takeru.

Source: Wikimedia Commons

Another day, another summoning. Seriously, why are they having me do all these summoning’s? There are plenty of other students who can perform the ritual, so why me? I guess I can’t complain too much since I get to meet so many legendary figures. Well, whatever. Let’s get this summoning started.

I perform the summoning ritual as I always do and what appears before is-

“私はサーベルクラスのヤマトテケルです. 私の神聖な剣の草薙はあなたに勝利をもたらすでしょう.”

A Japanese samurai! I’ve always wanted to meet an actual samurai but why can’t I understand him? This has never been an issue with my previous servants? So, I ask my instructor, “Why is he speaking Japanese? All of my previous servants spoke English regardless of their country of origin.”

My instructor replies with, “An error seems to have occurred during the summoning. Normally, servants automatically speak the same dialect as their summoner as to reduce the chance of miscommunications. Anyways, he says his name is Yamato Takeru and he is of the Saber Class.”

I see, that makes sense…… wait!? “Instructor you speak Japanese!?”

To this my instructor replies with, “Yes, to some extent. It’s been awhile since I’ve spoken it though.”

I wasn’t expecting to learn that about my instructor. Anyways, so he is Yamato Takeru. A mythological hero that is said to be a descendant of Amaterasu. He accomplished many great feats in his legend such as defeating a demon boar and a dragon. Though, he wasn’t perfect since he fell prey to the enticement of Benten, a lovely goddess, which eventually resulted in the death of his loyal wife. Regardless, I finally get to meet a samurai!

I look towards Yamato and say, “It’s nice to meet you Yamato. I look forward to working with you.”

To this he replies, “同様に、マスター. 我々は多くの大きな勝利を達成することができます.”

My instructor interprets and says, “He said he’s also looking forwards to working with you.”

I get the feeling that this partnership is going to be rather unique, if not troublesome.


Author Notes:
So, I went with Yamato this week. I thought that he would make a perfect servant since he meets all the necessary marks: accomplish great feet’s, has a legendary weapon, and fits a class nicely. So, I didn’t change any of Yamato’s legend but I did make it so that he can only speak Japanese. I thought it would be interesting to touch on why the mythological heroes that are summoned are able to clearly communicate with the summoner. Finally, don’t take the Japanese I used in the story seriously since it’s from Google Translate and probably isn’t correct.

Bibliography. "Japanese Mythology" from Romance of Old Japan by E. W. Champney and F. Champney. Web Source.

Wikipedia Trails: From Kusanagi To Kagura

I started at the article on Kusanagi. I wanted to learn more about the sword for my storytelling since it appears in many of Japan's early mythologies.

Next, I found myself at the article on the Imperial Regalia of Japan. I wanted to learn more about the other two regalia since they don't appears as much in the stories.

This lead me to the article on Ame-no-Uzume-no-mikoto. I was curios what other roles this goddess played aside from the role in bringing Amaterasu out.

Finally, I found myself at the article on Kagura. I was curious about what this traditional style of dance is like.

An artists vision of what the Imperial Regalia look like.

Source: Wikimedia Commons

Extra Reading Notes: Japanese Fairy Tales Part A

Japanese Fairy Tales by Yei Theodora Ozaki

• Mat be interesting to have Hidesato reject the old man's request.
• Could be interesting to have Hidesato retell his story to his family.
• Might be interesting if Kintaro beats the woodcutter in the match of strength.
• Could be interesting to see what would happen if Kintaro stayed in the mountains.
• Might be fun to have Sentaro gain immortality for real.

Kintaro wrestling with a giant carp.

Source: Wikimedia Commons

Reading Notes: Japanese Mythology Part B

Japanese Mythology from Romance of Old Japan by E. W. Champney and F. Champney.

• Could be interesting to see Tacibana try and keep Yamato's favor.
• May also be interesting if Tacibana left Yamato and he tried to win her back.
• Could be interesting to see what would happen if Yamato did not go babk to Benten.
• Might be fun to explore how the stag came to hold the Sacred Sword.
• May be fun to have a happy ending for Yamato and Tacibana.
• Coulf be fun to have Tamatori survive.

Yamato against the flames.

Source: Wikimedia Commons

Reading Notes: Japanese Mythology Part A

Japanese Mythology from Romance of Old Japan by E. W. Champney and F. Champney.

• Might be interesting to have Izanagi save Izanami.
• Could be fun to have Amaterasu stay in the cave.
• Might be fun to summon Orochi.
• Could be interesting to summon Ninigi.
• Might be fun to have Yamato continue cross dressing in all his stories.

 Amaterasu emerging from the cave.

Source: Wikimedia Commons

Extra Reading Notes: Arabian Nights Part B

Arabian Nights from Arabian Nights' Entertainments by Andrew Lang

• Could be fun to add Abu and Iago into this version of the story and see how it changes.
• Might be interesting to see how the story unfolds if Aladdin's mother see through the magicians lies.
• Could be fun to explore the years spent with the genies after their first appearance.
• Might be fun to have the princess reject Aladdin because she remembered what he did during her previous marriage. 
• Could be interesting if there is a price to using the genies and Aladdin must find a way to pay it.

Figure of Aladdin summoning the Genie.

Source: Flickr

Wikipedia Trails: From Noah To Prometheus

I started at Noah to try and learn more for my storybook. There was some good information that I think will help me.

Next, I found myself at the article on The Flood. I wanted to see if there was any more information that could help me in this article.

Then I ended up at the article on Flood Myth's. I was curious about other myths that involved floods.

Finally, I arrived at the article on Prometheus. I was curious to learn more about him because of his involvment in a Flood Myth.

Sculpture of Prometheus.

Source: Wikimedia Commons

Wikipedia Trials: From Sindbad to Ali Baba

I started at Sinbad the Sailor because I was curious if there was more details on his voyages. There was some, but not as much as I expected.

I then arrived at the article One Thousand and One Nights. I was curious about the other kind of stories contained in the book.

This led me to the article on Scheherazade. I found her to be an interesting character and wanted to learn a bit more about her.

Finally, I arrived at the article on Ali Baba. I recalling hearing the name before, but didn't know much about the character or story. So I went to the article to learn more.

Painting of Ali Baba.

Source: Wikimedia Commons

Week 6 story: The Summoning of Raja Rasula

Archer using a bow.

Source: Pixabay

Time to recruit another Heroic Spirit. Hopefully this one will be an actual hero, not a pretender like Sindbad. Honestly, that guy just sits around telling ridiculously elaborate stories. So, I’m hoping this time will be better.

I perform the summoning ritual I’ve become accustom to and what appears is-

“I am Archer class Raja Rasalum, son of Salbahan, ruler of Sialkot. May my mighty bow break you victory in battle.”

Raja Rasalu, if I recall correctly, is the great hero of the Punjab. He is a hero who accomplished many astonishing feats using his amazing strength and quick wit. Some of these include: how he slayed man-eating giants, how he deceived a beautiful queen by pretending to be a holy man, how he overcame the deceitfulness of a gambling king, and how a great hunter fell because he could not follow Rasalu’s words. Truly, Raja Rasalu is great example of what a hero should be.

There’s just one problem……

“…….?”

The great hero standing before me is a prepubescent boy! He can’t be more than 12 years, wearing shimmering armor and carrying a magnificent bow. Is this really Raja Rasalu?

I ask:

“Are you really the great hero Raja Rasalu?”

The boy responds with:

“Yes, I am he.”

He states proudly. So, I ask him:

“Then why are you just a boy? I thought for sure Raja Rasalu lived far beyond adolescents? So, shouldn’t you be much older?”

Unexpectedly, it’s my instructor who answers my question with:

“The appearance of Heroic Spirits is not limited to the appearance they had at the end of their lives. In general, they take the appearance they had at the prime of their heroic stature.”

I see, so Raja Rasalu looks like a boy because this is when he was at his peak condition.

Raja Rasalu confirms this by say:

“That is correct. When I’m summoned as an Archer, I take this form. However, if you summoned me as a Rider, I would have had my adult form and my great mare Bhaunr' Iraqi at my side. Nevertheless, do not let my size dissuade you for all my memories and experience remain from my adult live.”

So, Raja Rasalu could have also been a Rider. Interesting. Well, I guess there’s no pointing in complaining about this unusual summoning. As a matter of fact, I should be used to it by now……sadly.

Author notes:

I didn't like the part B reading of Raja Rasalu's tale as much as part A. So, I decided to focus more on that. As I was thinking, I found that the younger version of him was more interesting then his older version. So, I made him be summoned as his younger self. Furthermore, the stories mention that he has a couple of weapons he carries, but his bow was the most prominent. So I made him be summoned as an Archer. 

Bibliography. "Raja Rasalu" from  Tales of the Punjab by Flora Annie Steel and  Adventures of the Punjab Hero Raja Rasalu by Charles Swynnerton. Web Source.

Reading Notes: Raja Rasalu Part B

Raja Rasalu from The Adventures of the Punjab Hero Raja Rasalu by Charles Swynnerton.

• Might be fun to see what would happen if Mirshikari kept the promises.
• Could be interesting to retell the story of the swans in modern times.
• Could be fun to explore the kind of stories told by the jackal.
• Could be fun to explore how Rasalu trained Bhoj.
• I didn't find these stories as interesting as the previous stories.

Two swans.

Source: Wikimedia Commons

Reading Notes: Raja Rasalu Part A

Raja Rasalu from Tales of the Punjab by Flora Annie Steel

• Could be fun to explore how Rasalu grew up in his first 11 years of life.
• Could be interesting to go into more detail on how Rasalu defeated the horror.
• Might be fun to have the giants surrender to Radalu instead of fighting him.
• Could be interesting to have the Jogi tell the truth to Queen Sundran and she chases after Rasalu.
• Might be fun to see all these stories for the horses perspective.

Raja Rasalu playing Chaupur against King Sarkap.

Source: Wikimedia Commons.

Extra Reading Notes: Arabian Nights Part A

Arabian Nights from Arabian Nights' Entertainments by Andrew Lang

• Could be interesting to change Scheherazade's gender.
• Could be fun to explore the year of the merchant before he was to meet his end.
• Could be interesting to see the hind's point of view during the storytelling. 
• Could be fun to make up the story of the third old man.
• Could be fun to have the genius grant the wishes of the fisherman.
• Could be fun to have the fisherman throw the genius back into the sea and then be found by another.

Painting of Scheherazade by Gengembre, Sophie Anderson.

Source: Wikimedia Commons

Week 5 story: The Summoning of Sindbad

Sindbad against the man eating giant.

Source: Wikimedia Commons

Okay. I've summoned three Heroic Spirits so far and it's time for the fourth. I think I'm finally getting the hang of this whole summoning business.

As normal, my instructor is standing a short distance away observing my progress. He’s mainly here to make sure nothing goes wrong with the summoning, and to step in if the worst-case scenario occurs. But enough about that, let’s get started! I perform the summoning as I have done previously and what appears from the circle is-

“……..?”

A man who is wearing a turban and appears to be Indian. But, unlike my previous encounters with Heroic Spirits, this one looks really confused. So, I ask my instructor:

“Instructor, did something go wrong with the summoning? This servant looks really confused.”

My instructor replies with:

“No, nothing went wrong. The summoning was as successful as your previous attemtps.”

Well, that’s a good thing I suppose. But my new servant is still wandering around examining everything and acting as if he doesn’t know what’s going on. Guess I better find out what Heroic spirit he is, so I ask him:

“Hello there. May I ask your name?”

Upon hearing my question, the servant finally realizes there are other people in the room and responds with:

“I am called Sindbad.”

After briefly saying this, Sindbad looks at a far corner of the room as if lost in thought. I’m not entirely sure why he looks so puzzled. He’s a servant so he should be clearly aware of what’s going on.

Anyways, he said he was called Sindbad. If I recall correctly, the legend Sindbad the Sailor come from the book The Arabian Nights. In his tale, Sindbad is a merchant who embarks on seven voyages and each time he ends up in some perilous situation. But, he always overcomes them and gains more treasure than he left with. His stories about his voyages were quite fascinating.

Anyways, since he was known for his voyages, he must be a Rider. Better make sure. So, I ask Sindbad:

“So, you’re Sindbad the Sailor. That must mean you’re of the Rider class, right?”

He responds with:

“No. I’m a Caster.”

Caster? That doesn’t make sense. Sindbad never did anything that would qualify him as a Caster. Better ask for more details:

“You’re a Caster? But you’re most know for your seven voyages. So, you should be a Rider, right?”

Upon hearing this, Sindbad looks at me with a confused look on his face and says:

“Voyages? What voyages. I never went out to sea at any point in my life.”

Wait……What? Now I’m the one who is confused. Sindbad the Sailor isn’t a sailor!

As I’m trying to figure things out, Sindbad looks as if he realized something and says:

“Ah, you must have been referring to the stories I made up. I must say I was quite the storyteller in life. But enough about that, why am I here? I shouldn’t be able to be summoned as servant. After all, I was just a normal person in life.”

That’s what I want to know! Sindbad was nothing but a middle-aged man who told exaggerated stories about adventures he never had!

I look at my instructor and ask what’s going on and he replies with:

“Nothing unheard of has occurred. Heroic Spirits are known by the legends that they come from. Sindbad’s legend only has him telling the tales of his voyages, so the fact that they are made up should not surprise you. In any case, we’ve spent enough time here. It’s time for classes.”

My instructor quickly makes for the exit after finish speaking. I shout out to him, but to no avail:

“Wait! That doesn’t solve anything! What am I supposed to do with a Heroic Spirit whose great feats in life were made up!”


Authors Notes:
Sindbad was known for his exciting voyages. In these seven voyages, he always wound up in strange situation but always came out on top. So, I thought it would be fun to have those voyages be nothing more than his made-up tales and the he was nothing more than a regular guy. That’s about the only thing I changed from the original tale. Also, I thought I would try to portray Sindbad’s curiosity since that seemed to be prevalent in his tales. That’s why he seems so confused after being summoned and wanders around examining everything.

Bibliography. "The Voyages of Sindbad" from The Arabian Nights. Web Source.