The Gleaming Emerald

Chan Tsz Hei Hedy, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University

A loyal handmaid, an intriguing creature of magic, and a mesmerising emerald ring come together in a spellbinding story. 

Click here to read The Gleaming Emerald.

Embarking on her second year of studying at PolyU, where she is majoring in Occupational Therapy, Hedy is an enthusiast of both science and fantasy. She has immersed herself in enchanting ink-built worlds since childhood, giving her an appreciation of the aesthetics of sophisticated literature. Hedy believes that fantasy stories are more than pixie dust and figments of imagination; one can also seek answers about life from the enlightening tales. Inspired by accomplished authors, she endeavours to create thought-provoking stories about profound issues.  

Author’s Reflection

Having buried myself in piles of fairy tales and folklore for years, I was truly blissful when taking the course ELC1A04 From the Lord of the Rings to Harry Potter: Fantasy, Reality and Humanity; it transformed me from a mere reader into an amateur fantasy writer. As much as I relish the mythical elements in fantasy novels, it’s their powerful messages addressing modern problems that impress me the most.  My dream was to publish a story that resonates with readers, so I had the idea of incorporating pressing global issues as well as thought-provoking moral lessons into my story. 

It was indeed an invaluable opportunity to learn how to create a story from scratch, and to develop my skill with characterization.  It fascinates me how careful choices of names and memorable dialogue add depth and complexity to the characters.  I would like to thank Mr Daniel Barlow, Mr Phil Todd and Ms Chrissy Burns for their patience and advice throughout the writing and editing processes. It would not have been a work as satisfactory as it is without their assistance. If you are also an ardent fantasy lover, please do give it a read!

Photo by Matthew Henry on Unsplash