Preface
Coming up with something clever to say for this section of the book is a bit harder than you think. Mostly because this is me relaying a message to readers on whoever stumbles upon this unrefined piece of work is in for maybe a good ride? I am not saying you will be bored to death nor belittling myself. I am saying that you will probably pick up on how new I was to this whole story writing hobby of mine. Yes, this is my first literary work that I am hoping will get recognized as somewhat competent and then leads to loads of cash afterwards. A pipe dream for sure. This was definitely a passion project I started back in 2013 when my mind was so-called “mature” enough to be able to sit in one place and get the gears turning. Which, believe it or not, is probably the scariest phase people worry about. Where to start? How does it end? What’s my purpose for writing in the first place? You get the idea. I didn’t really think of it like that. With going off of no college degree in the field of “writing” lack for a better word, all the experiences I had were mainly different forms of entertainment (movies, music, video games, and books), and high school/community college education under my belt. And that was being at the age of 23. I remember attempting my first story back when I was 18 and all I could write down were two sentences and gave up quickly. No creativity or inspiration was there yet. But in 2013 it was different, I deemed myself prepared for the harsh reality of writing a decent story. All I had was the title, few main characters, and blind optimism guiding my hand. Also, I think being a drummer helped me out quite a bit as well since it opened up new avenues on how to think on the spot when playing music or understanding rhythm or flow. It’s hard to put in words but I hope you catch my drift.
The name Niko stuck with me very easily. Its origins story was very short. My friend David was playing the video game Chrono Trigger for the first time a little bit before my writing escapade began, and he knew my favorite character was Frog. So what did he do? He named him Niko and from that very moment I knew he was on to something. Which still makes me chuckle to this day because on how stupid it sounds but that’s all it took for me to carry on the name Niko and create an adventure of his own. Of course, when you learn more about Niko in the book and compare his persona to Frog, the two are nothing alike. To be fair, this story might be considered under the “heroes journey” category but I didn’t want to make it easy for Niko and the main characters. I wanted them all to be down to earth as much as possible. Sounds ridiculous writing that since this is a sword and sorcery kind of tale. I probably failed the task anyways. Perhaps, a fair comparison of Niko would be to Frodo Baggins from J.R.R. Tolkiens Lord of the Rings, where an everyday person can help shape the fate of the world. Mix that premise with the harsh realities of books like George R.R. Martins A Song of Fire & Ice and you maybe, not even close, get to what my story will be like. I dunno if that explains anything but I tried. As I mentioned before, all I had was a few guidelines on writing the story and I kind of winged it from there. I tried to keep it as simple as possible on where to take the story next. The most important part was that I had a beginning and end. Everything in between was at my brain’s disposal. Of course, over time I began to learn new writing techniques, a better understanding of my own world, and I was able formulate outlines for the later chapters. That’s what makes this whole journey so fun! I’m serious. You learn as you go. Once you get passed the initial hurdle you’re off to a great start. I wrote this book however way I wanted it. No one has the right to tell you how write your own story. To each his own. You’ll see how much I grew as a writer along with Niko and his friends. And with luck, you will also grow alongside us. Growing for all! Humble beginnings!
Overall, I had a blast creating something I was very passionate about. All from scratch. I took my damn time because this was a project I wanted to stand the test of time. A way to extend myself as a person for all to see. If it sucks it sucks. If it sells it sells. As long as I achieved my goal. With that said, I think everybody should create some kind of written work and share a tale or two. You’d be surprised on what can come out of your brain. If it’s poop, then write about poop. There’s a story for everyone out there. Playing god can be a lot of fun. Creepy I know. Trust me.
-Nickolas Sorokin- (2021)
