Backstage Pass! Why I Killed Dantress

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There are 3 elements that are key to a great story. Those elements are love, honor, and sacrifice. If you ask me “Why did Dantress have to die in Swords of the Six?” I will tell you that the scenario met all of those criteria.

This is very hard as a writer. It is always a challenge to create a story and spend time creating a character you love… and then be willing to kill that character off. Dantress had to die, for the good of the story. The consequence of giving birth would be that she must give up her life blood to the child in order for the child to live. What better way to endear Dantress to those around her? She became the epitome of self-sacrifice in the story. She was willing to give up her new life with her husband in order that her daughter could live.

From the perspective of the hero, Ilfedo, his wife was his dearest treasure. But because of the sweet gift of his daughter, his earthly purpose continued.

You have to have love, honor, and sacrifice. Eliminate any of these elements and the story suffer.

Question: What stories stand out in your mind because of one character’s selfless sacrifice? Does it endear the story to you and make it more memorable?

Posted by AuthorAppleton

Scott Appleton is the author of the novels The Sword of the Dragon series, and The Neverqueen Saga, which are widely read by adults and younger readers. Besides these, Scott has also published a collection of short speculative fiction (By Sword By Right) which runs the gamut of science-fiction, fantasy, allegory, romance, poetry, and biblical. Driven by a love of storytelling and an appreciation for the craft, Scott has spoken extensively at events across the United States. His specialization in fiction editing and writing has garnered praise from some prominent writers. Scott was born in Connecticut and grew up there. He actively pursued astronomy through his teen years, built ships-in-bottles and, throughout his life, read and wrote extensively. Besides his writing he works in sales. Currently Scott lives in Greenville, South Carolina with his wife, Kelley, and their five children. His activities of choice are reading with his kids, watching fantasy and science-fiction movies, reading, and playing the occasional Star Wars video game. You can find him at AuthorAppleton.com and facebook.com/scottappleton.fans

Reader interactions

4 Replies to “Backstage Pass! Why I Killed Dantress”

  1. Hi Scott, I will like to know who are the traitor in this book please. It was really confusing for me to understand the name of the characters. Cause my book talk is do today. Thank you for your time.

    Reply

    1. Adrian,
      In “Swords of the Six” it is Kesla who betrays Xavion, though against his will.

      Reply

  2. The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe; The Fellowship of the Ring; Elsie’s Holidays at Roselands ; and Swords of the Six.
    Seriously, when I first read Dantress’ death scene, I wept for half an hour, and didn’t pick it up for a year and a half (I was twelve, I think). Then I read it again, and the Sword of the Dragon series has become one of my favorite series ever.

    Reply

  3. On the topic of Dantress, the way I picture her is a woman from a video by Simon Khorolskiy, New Heaven & Earth – Epic Song of Revelation. The shorter burnette.

    Reply

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