For those reading this message: No, this project is not abandoned.
It has expanded far beyond what I initially thought it would be, to the point that I fully believe it will be the size of a fantasy series in its own right. This went from a fun side project to an all out compulsion. I believe I have something special here and it is not a question as to if I will finish it, but when.
As of now I'm on break. Ever since mid December I've had trouble finding the will to write. There's been short periods of intense activity since then, maybe three or so weeks, but I always end up huffing and stepping back. The parts I'm writing are difficult and I'm honestly slightly overwhelmed by how much work there is to do. However, I see this as not just a love letter to a game that rocked me to the core, but also to my self. It will not be abandoned. I love Daedalus too much, and I think he fits perfectly into the story, themes, and world of Baldur's Gate.
In terms of progress, I've written almost 24 chapters since beginning this project in October, amounting to nearly 180k words. For some context: all of this writing and the party has only just left the Emerald Grove. Maybe you can understand my being overwhelmed, then. Believe it or not this actually comes out to be a bit subpar for me. On the days I write, I will write more than I usually have before (my usual is 2k, but during this project I've made it a practice to push past 2.5k, which has actually made me feel better about my work). The problem is being consistent, as I've taken multiple breaks through this time. This is tied to multiple, psychological issues that I won't get into. Needless to say I'm trying to deal with them.
Just know I'm working. Though the small amount I've posted here may seem insignificant, in my eyes it is the seed from which a masterpiece of modern fantasy is being born. Even if I make not a single dime on this project, I'll make damn sure it's the best I can make it-and that's pretty damn good. Up yours, Sanderson.
I will refrain from posting any more sneak peaks. While it may be the smart thing to do in terms of numbers, throughout the years I've learned that all sharing my drafts does is make me more overwrought. My process is my own and audience feedback has little impact on it, no matter how much I could virtue signal about criticism. To be honest, I couldn't give a damn what others thought about what I wrote. Everyone has something to say and I'll decide on my own whether it's worthwhile, and there won't be any public admission of that.
I will leave this update here. Know that I am working, and everything I do should be waited for with bated breath. I'm pretty great.
Very respectfully,
Jacques F. Pierre
