Date: August 12 2023 6:47 PM Title: Chapter 5 - The Sorrel Camp
Interesting premise here. I'm very curious to see if an explanation is confirmed for why Alden is Artless. The ideas proposed so far seem like the fancies common to gossip and tavern tales.
I admit I'm a little confused about the nature of relationships with the giant clans and human homesteaders outside of the kingdom. If a little scuffle with a bully is enough to get Alden enslaved to a slave, I can't help but wonder how the homesteaders aren't just enslaved. All it would take is a hint of mischief on a child's part, and there goes the homestead. Are these humans desperate, that they live out there? Or is it that Alden is a mage that he was treated so harshly? If obeisance is all that stands between a homestead and slavery, that's a mighty fine line to walk.
I'm also curious as to the how and why of making human women giants. Tiny pets are easier to feed and care for. Making them giant scale doesn't seem to serve much purpose, unless they use them in combat, though if that were the case, Claeri seems far too kind.
I'm definitely looking forward to what comes next. There's been a fair bit of buld up to the meeting with Big Bertha. Should be interesting.
Author's Response:
Alden's situation is elaborated on, I'll say that much. I also write The Artless in the same greater universe as my other stories, and my biggest, primary story (Adventures In Humius And Gintessa) contains explanations that I believe answer some of your questions. I think I've gotten a bit lazy with the details the more stories I pile up since I get comfortable in the similar setting, so your confusion is completely understandable. There's enchantments that make human-sized food as satiating for giants as if it were their size, to answer the logistics question. And the focus on Alden is mostly brought on by his exceptional talent.
I'll be honest as well and say that worldbuilding isn't my primary focus; I don't like getting too technical and getting into the particulars. The turning-humans-into-giants business is purposefully vague. I just like the world to simply feel organic enough that the plot (which is highly erotica-driven, as is probably obvious) can be sustained by it.
Good questions, and thanks for the review!