The Delay and What is the Z-Rod?

‘Double-disc and Z-rod - one of three combinations associated with the Z-rod.

Z-rod and viper - It is this combination that is tattooed on one of the main protagonists.

Z-rod and notched rectangle, the tattoo borne by the outgoing warlord.

Z-Rod

The launch of ‘Chosen Wanderers’, part one of the Z-Rod series, is delayed until May. Meanwhile, I shall post more updates to hopefully whet the appetite.

What is the Z-rod? It’s at the heart of this historical mystery and one which is gradually understood as the series progresses. At the initiation of two princes preparing one to rule the tribe, a mysterious power symbol, the Z-rod, is tattooed on one, unleashing uncontrollable consequences. A druid and a mysterious bard, who see only in part, hint at the hidden agenda of the earth goddess, contradicting the expectations of the tribe. Promising much, the Z-rod confounds when events spiral downwards..

Prophetic revelation has little relevance initially, but later becomes the lifeline to recover a seemingly lost destiny. What significance does the Z-Rod and ‘bearing fire to the north’ have on an exile, and how will anything be achieved amidst poverty and obscurity? This Celtic saga is about huge undoings and fragile new beginnings and spirited re-makings, played out in parallel to the adventures of Celtic saints into the heartlands of the Picts.

The Historical background. The Picts left hardly any written records other than a list of kings, but they bequeathed a rich artistic legacy of symbols and animal depictions that adorn many standing stones. Besides these weathered remnants in our landscape, Pictish symbols were proudly sported as tattoos on the bodies of their warriors, earning them the name ‘Picti’ by the Romans, referring to the painted ones; a name from which ‘Picts’ is derived. Symbols are also found on jewelry and objects that were perhaps once considered sacred and certainly of value since they were engraved on precious metals.. This legacy is intriguing, adding to the allure felt today towards their culture. The Z-rod series delves into the belief system of these fiercely independent people and demonstrates why they listened to the Celtic saints..