The Order of Thanatos

While I should be immersed in Destiny of the Daystar, the fourth installment of my Absolution of the Morning Star series, a thrilling new book concept unexpectedly burst into existence a few days ago, compelling me to set my pen to a different stack of paper. As I’ve often emphasized, the muse can lead us down unexpected paths, but I do trust her and have learned not to resist when she beckons.

My vision for Destiny of the Daystar is clear, yet the words are reluctant to flow. This resistance often indicates that a story still needs to ripen. Or, perhaps it’s because I know what I need to write, and it’s missing some of the excitement. I don’t know, but it is coming in little spurts rather than 1,000 words a night. Conversely, when a narrative is clamoring to be told, it’s best to give it free rein. And that’s precisely what I’m doing with this new tale. It’s flowing almost like Dawn of the Lightbearer (complete in three months), which means I may be able to get it out quickly. Don’t worry, the diversion has merit. This fresh idea is intricately woven into Erikson Gray’s central narrative, and to continue crafting Destiny of the Daystar, I must first allow the new concept to blossom. It will help me clarify if the path I’ve chosen for Erikson Gray is the right one.

The Order of Thanatos is mentioned several times throughout the series, and in Noonday in the North (Book 3), Tristen and Ailis have a brief discussion with a mysterious brother of the order, named Damek of Shadowrock. In my expansive Lucardian universe, the Order of Thanatos stands as the custodians of the departed, and their rituals are veiled in secrecy. Summoned upon death, they meticulously prepare the body for its final voyage, whether it be burial or the eerie practice of flesh-boiling for long-distance transportation. This latter method was prevalent in medieval times when a body would decompose if it had to travel for a month to reach its final resting place. Yet, the role of the Order of Thanatos extends beyond that of mere morticians. Their knowledge of human anatomy is unparalleled, and they work to prevent death as much as they deal with the passing (Anderson, the Lion’s surgeon, mentions learning his skills at Thanatos). Employing clairaudients, they also communicate with the departed, ensuring their souls find solace and do not linger as restless spirits (rumored). Lastly, they are experts in amassing rare ingredients for the alchemy trade. This practice helps them maintain low costs but also makes them knowledgeable in alchemic techniques, which include necromancy. All these unique practices have led to a societal stigma, and despite their indispensable services, they are often ostracized and mocked by the rest of Lucardian society. This all makes the Order of Thanatos a well-spring for intriguing yarns.

Unfortunately, I can’t go into more detail than that. The idea is very fresh- I’ve only written 2,500 words. It is also quite profound, and I don’t want to risk having it stolen. I’ve researched, and the angle I plan to explore may be a literary vein yet untapped, requiring a level of secrecy. Don’t worry. I’ve not given up on Destiny of the Daystar. There is still much of Erikson’s story to tell, and it will come in time. But first, a tale about the keepers of the dead.

Cheers!