The Chosen One
Thom hated the idea of being the chosen one. But as much as he loathed it, he was more scared. Going back would ruin his normal predictable life, and going back could be the last thing he ever did. - Not a definition, but three sentences from the book itself.
Chosen one stories are cliche, aren’t they? But as cliche as they are, the chosen ones themselves aren’t fans of chosen one stories.
How many days have we, the people of this reality, wished we didn’t have to do something we were chosen to do? Let’s not talk about wielding magic or slaying a dragon - we don’t belong in that universe - let’s just picture our magic-less lives. I’m sure in our own journeys, we’ve dreaded doing something we were supposed to do. We’ve whined, we’ve stalled, and we’ve done something unproductive altogether. The fact is, we hate being chosen. Of course, not all the time. But when it involves an action we have no confidence in taking, a request that requires too much effort, or a task we dislike, we’d rather not be chosen at all. Hence why chosen one stories are cliche. We live one everyday. And the reason why chosen one stories are still read... is because we are very much alike our favourite heroes.
Most protagonists of the classic hero’s tale reflects the human nature. He or she is relatable. Even though our quests aren’t as heavy or world changing as our heroes, we see ourselves in similar situations. We get it. Being chosen sucks. Being chosen ruins the stability we’ve built. Being chosen can be a chore. But what we sometimes fail to see is that being chosen is also a choice.
Chosen ones have the choice of ignoring magic’s call. Chosen ones can put down their swords and refuse to fight. Chosen ones can walk away from their destiny. They have a choice, and yet they choose to be chosen. That choice exists in our universe too. Even when we feel like we have no choice, no matter what the reasoning is, we still choose our actions. They may be involuntary, but we make the decision. And sometimes... these choices have the power to make a difference.
So for your choice in supporting this book, wonderful reader, I want you to know that it is more than an act of generosity. In my eyes, I see your decision to stand by me as an alliance. And I know that when Pithr strikes, I wouldn’t be marooned in the desert to defend myself. My Eklaysia would survive because of the army you sent! Your choice, even if it is out of obligation, has made a difference in this battle. And from one chosen one to another, thank you.
(No, no, the contest is not over. I sure do write like it is. But no, there are 3 more days before the end. I just wanted to say ’thank you’ again no matter what happens come November 1st. For me, this is how my last update before the end should be.)
Firstly to God, because I need to give credit where credit is due. Without Him, I wouldn’t be here today. There is no way I would’ve managed to gather so many readers from different countries on my own. There is no way I could’ve convinced Malaysians to pre-order a ’pricey’ book. How I made it this far, is not by my own works, but by God’s grace and His open doors. So I will not shy back or be afraid to declare that He is a big player in this campaign. And for His constant faithfulness, I am extremely and forever grateful.
Secondly to mum and dad. They were the second biggest players in this campaign. They reached out to their friends and rallied extended support. They shamelessly plugged my book, and shamelessly appealed for orders. A huge part of the success in this campaign is because of them. There are some things only parents can do, and giving their undying support is one of them. I am blessed to call them mum and dad. Thank you, mi & dy! Saranghaeyo!