When I wrote this chapter of The Diamonds of the Sun, I wanted to explore Edgar’s transformation not just as a warrior, but as a person navigating a world full of choices, conflicts, and responsibilities. His journey from an outcast to a leader was always meant to be more than just a rise in status—it was about his inner struggles and the burden of destiny that he carries.
The battle that lingers in the background even after the tournament ends was important for me to illustrate how war leaves lasting effects on people and places. Edgar, despite his newfound wealth and recognition, cannot escape the consequences of past events. I wanted readers to feel his temporary peace in Dornaran before fate inevitably intervenes.
When I introduced Breath of Death, I wanted him to serve as more than a harbinger of war. He is a reflection of the blurred lines between loyalty and survival. The demons he warns about aren’t just a physical threat; they represent the forces beyond Edgar’s control, forcing him to act even when he longs for peace.
The journey through the desert and Edgar’s encounter with Mestafol was my way of incorporating mythological elements into the story. I’ve always been fascinated by the idea of spirits and ancient beings who have their own rules, ones that humans must navigate carefully. Mestafol’s decision to help but not fight was intentional—I wanted to show that power doesn’t always mean direct intervention, and Edgar himself must take responsibility for leading the army.
The battle itself was one of my favorite sequences to write. I wanted it to feel cinematic, immersive, and chaotic, with elements of high fantasy that would excite and engage the reader. The introduction of griffins, dwarves, and the monstrous black dragon was meant to push the tension to its peak, making the reader feel the overwhelming odds Edgar and his allies faced.
Then comes the meeting with the Emperor, a moment I had been building up to. His obsession with flowers was deliberately placed to contrast with the brutality of war. I wanted him to be unnerving, unpredictable—someone who seems distant from the horrors he commands. His role in the story is crucial, and through Edgar’s perspective, I wanted the reader to feel both curiosity and unease.
Edgar’s duel with Cuer’Ilf was not just about action; it was about the personal stakes involved. With the fate of the Kingdom of Trian at risk, this was a moment where Edgar had to prove himself. Winning the Sun Diamond was symbolic—it wasn’t just about securing a powerful artifact, but about how much more responsibility was now placed upon him.
At its core, this chapter is about choices, sacrifice, and the weight of leadership. Edgar’s bond with Valleria is a crucial emotional thread, reminding both him and the reader that even in the darkest times, love and hope persist. Their connection isn’t just a subplot—it’s what keeps Edgar grounded.
Writing The Diamonds of the Sun has been an incredible journey for me, and this chapter, in particular, holds a special place in my heart. It represents the balance between adventure and introspection, war and humanity. For those who love epic fantasy, this is only the beginning of Edgar’s journey, and I can’t wait for you to experience the rest of his story.
