The Wandering Scribe February 2025 Edition
Well, we survived the first month of the new year. Last month was an excellent beginning for the channel, as I brought many new authors and historians to the show. I have also been tirelessly working with my fellow authors and creators on an incredible opportunity I am proud to share.
Historinas Lounge Guest: Rosie Maggs
February Line Up
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Audiomaze: A New Era in Storytelling
Story of the Month: Horsemen of Luzon
Historians Lounge Guest: Rosie Maggs
Making their return to the show is Rosie Maggs , a fellow Historian and the owner of The Historians Magazine . For those who remember, Rosie is a historian who founded The Historians and Little Historians Magazine. She seeks to provide opportunities to people of all ages and at different stages of their careers. As part of the Historians and Little Historians magazines, she produces educational videos and content on social media. She and her time have been hustling to bring new content to their followers for 2025, and I am so excited to have her back on the show.
February Line Up
Jawairia Ali is a Pakistani-American author of the new novel Days of Revenge. She is a self-taught artist and claims writing to be a work of art. She dabbles in contemporary, dark, and fantasy romance with characters who are alpha heroes and classy heroines. Her stories are filled with steam and heart-wrenching angst with a dash of childhood trauma to make the novel more enticing. When not sitting in front of her computer at two in the morning, she enjoys being a mom to her three kids and reading for fun.
Elisabeth Rhoads is the author of?Haggard House?and numerous short stories. She is the vice president of the California Writers Club, Orange County branch board, and has been a volunteer juror for the Scholastic Writing Awards since 2021. In addition to writing, Elisabeth enjoys learning Japanese and fermenting foods of all types, mainly kombucha. She also pretends to enjoy exercise-related activities, such as kayaking and running.
Will Solomon, a previous guest, also returns to the show. For those who remember, Will Solomon is an author who initially hails from Memphis, TN. After serving nearly seven years in the United States Air Force as a Military Policeman and Canine Handler, he left the service and pursued his passion for writing. When he’s not busy writing books or working on his degree, you can find him at the shooting range, hitting weights at the gym, or at home, reading and relaxing.
Sabrina was born in Germany and loves to read and write fantasy books. She now lives in North Carolina, where the ocean is less than an hour away. She is also the author of Wrath of the Wreya, a high-epic YA fantasy novel.
Rob Williams is a historian at Army University Press, based in Fort Leavenworth, Kansas, researching and writing on various aspects of US Army history. Hailing from the Pacific Northwest, he developed a profound interest in history and the military early in life. Following a distinguished career in several airborne units, where he earned the Master Parachutist Wings and the Pathfinder Badge, Rob decided to embark on doctoral studies in history. His research centers on unraveling the origins of the airborne culture that has been a significant part of his personal and professional journey. His book,?The Airborne Mafia:?The Paratroopers Who Shaped America’s Cold War Army,?explores how a small group of World War II airborne officers took control of the US Army after World War II.?This influential cadre cemented a unique airborne culture that had an unprecedented impact on the Cold War US Army and beyond.
Ariel is an editor and owner of Chapter One Author Services. At Chapter One Author Services, Ariel believes every story deserves the best presentation. Her journey began with a deep love for storytelling and a desire to help authors realize their dreams. Editing is not just about correcting mistakes; it's about enhancing one's voice and ensuring the story shines through.
A D McCabe is an Irish fantasy writer specializing in dark, atmospheric storytelling infused with ancient history, gothic themes, and Viking undertones. She is the author of the Tempus Militibusseries, a gripping blend of supernatural intrigue, deadly secrets, and the weight of history on immortal souls. A lifelong adventurer and observer, Anna finds inspiration in shadowed alleyways, old bookshops, and the forgotten whispers of the past. Her writing reflects a deep fascination with lost civilizations, the tension between duty and desire, and characters who walk the fine line between darkness and redemption. When she’s not crafting intricate narratives, Anna enjoys gothic rock, a glass of Pinot Grigio, and exploring the world—always with a notebook in hand, ready to capture the next tale waiting in the shadows.
Kate Mathos is the author of The Kingdom of Nern, a middle-grade fantasy series. She’s always been an avid reader, which led to her creating characters and writing stories early in her childhood. She’s a native of the Chicagoland area and, therefore, quietly holds strong opinions on essential topics like where to get the best pizza, whether the Cubs or Sox are better, and what to call the tallest building in the city (hint: it’s not Willis). You can find her baking or hanging out with her big, loud, Greek American family when she's not reading or writing.
Kayden Phoenix is a proud lesbian Chicana writer and director from East Los Angeles.?Fueled by her passion for equality, Kayden expanded her creative vision into the comic book world, founding Phoenix Studios. Our flagship series, "A La Brava," features the first Latina superhero team in comic book history, while "Princess Academia" showcases incredible Native and Latina princesses. These comics aren't just stories but celebrations of culture and identity.?
As a teenager, Mark K. McClain wrote short stories for pleasure and relaxation. During those years, his writing style developed due to authors such as J.R.R. Tolkien, David Eddings, Isaac Asimov, Agatha Christie, Stephen King, and others, which are too numerous to mention. With over 20 years of military experience, Mark is well-versed in business/formal writing concepts and methods. As a former columnist/staff writer for a local newspaper, he has penned over forty outdoor-related articles. Mark has also published several full-length articles for magazines, including local history articles, parenting columns, and articles in both China and Uganda. Fantasy and Sci-Fi hold a special place in my heart. Mark has published 5 YA Fantasy novels and 1 Horror Collection. Sharing his passion for the written word is a joy. Over the years, he has mentored both aspiring and established writers.
Finally, Patrick Little is also making a return. Patrick Little is a Macquarie University, Sydney graduate, majoring in Ancient History. As early as he can remember, Patrick has been fascinated by history. He’s also really good at talking people’s ears off. So, in 2020, Patrick created the show “A Little History Podcast.” But where do you begin with a bloke fascinated by all history and who loves telling stories? We have told each other for thousands of years by exploring the stories. A Little History Podcast delivers a comedic, chaotic, and thought-provoking discussion of the myths and folklore of various cultures worldwide. Patrick aims to bring a well-researched story, which he presents to a guest, who often has no idea of the subject matter. Though Patrick scripts each story, every episode is organic, often taking the listener on many hilarious tangents, with much laughter and cheeky pokes at the story along the way. Most importantly, Patrick strives to present a show that is engaging, informative, entertaining, and doesn’t take itself too seriously. Patrick produces the show from his home on the Sunshine Coast in Queensland, Australia, where he lives with his wife and two daughters.
More guests are slated to come, so be on the lookout.
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Calling all authors, narrators, editors, sound designers, etc.! AudioMazes is revolutionizing storytelling with immersive audio experiences that allow listeners to shape the story's outcome. We're looking for authors to write short stories of 24,000 words or less that can be transformed into interactive, multi-path narratives, where the audience decides which twists and turns to take. In addition to authors, we are actively recruiting narrators, editors, and sound designers to breathe life into our stories. We also have a merch store where people can buy our stories, sign up for our memberships, and purchase collectibles based on the upcoming stories set to be released. If it sounds like the place for you, click the link below to learn how we can bring your stories to life and connect with fellow creatives. Let’s craft something groundbreaking together!
Story of the Month: Horsemen of Luzon
Luzon December 8th, 1941
For the men of the 26th, war was the farthest from their minds. They were engaged in a Polo match against the Manila Polo Club. It was a much-anticipated match between the two. The 26th were mere soldiers, while the polo payers had international competitive status. The polo men arrived with their families in sleek sedans at the 26th’s home base, Fort Stotsenburg, in central Luzon. The game was set: four troopers against four polo players. The men cheered from the stands. Upon the umpire’s whistle, The match went as well as expected. The cavalry fell early and gave a spirited chase towards the end, but ultimately, they lost the game. Once everyone had left the field, two players from the Army stayed behind to tend to their horses.
“Hell of a game,” said Walter. Captain Walter Gifford, a Montanan dressed in his best uniform for the game. His brown collared jacket was ironed, and his officer’s hat covered his head full of Tuscany red hair. Paired with soft sapphire eyes and a fair complexion, he looked like one of those recruit boys down Main Street asking men to enlist. Regardless of his boyish features, he was a soldier. His horse, Thunder, let out a soft snort of irritation.
He leaned his head forward, brushing her golden mne
“Easy girl, you did good,” he whispered. Thunder was a young mare with a Mustang heritage, fresh out of Oklahoma, just like him. Unlike most fellow officers, he deeply loved and respected horses. That, of course, got him the unofficial name of “Horse Whisperer” back in training. He jokes about it with the others, but it’s true; he knows my horses. Walter grew up on a ranch in Montana specializing in horses bred for the military or sports. Most of the horses in the Kentucky Derby came from his family’s farm. Walter took pride in caring for all the mares and thoroughbreds who entered their doors.
“Hell of a game he says. More like a one-sided game, if you mean,” groaned Aexl. Aexl Berrocal was another trooper playing for 26th. Unlike his friend, Aexl dressed in his vaquero attire, a family heirloom passed through the generations. It included a high-crowned, broad-brimmed sombrero, bolero jacket, and sashes. His leather leggings were wrapped to the knee, and troweled spurs were attached to his boots. Many viewed Aexl as a hothead, but to Walter, he was his best friend. He came from Arizona and was of mixed-Mexican heritage. In addition, he was quite the lady’s man. His skin was a peach color, and his accent, while not thick, was present. When he entered the academy, he had shoulder-length hair, but it was shaved off. While Walter did not care about his background, the same could not be said for instructors, cadets, and the locals. He was almost expelled from the academy occasionally due to his temper. Thankfully, he was reassigned to Walters unit. At first, the interactions were few in between, but things changed at the firing range.
Out of the entire class, Aexl was the best and fastest shot. He could fire from horseback accurately and precisely, earning him the nickname “Quick Shot.” Soon, no one wanted to mess with Aexl, and the pair soon became friends after Walter saved Aexl from a beating from other cadets.
“Come on, did you think we would beat them? They do this for a living,” stated Walter.
“So do we,” spat Aexl.
“No, my friend. We protect a nation. That is our job,” Walter corrected. Aexl shook his head in defeat.
“I know better than to argue with you. Come on, let’s go meet the others for the party.”
Later that day, the Polo team invited the 26th for a night of fun and drinks. At the party, Commander Wainwright and the others complimented the officers on their excellent play against stiff competitors. While the rest of the 26th got drunk stupidly, Aexl and Walter were at the far end of the bar, joined by their dates.
“So, how was the match today, Walter?” asked Jolene, a Red Cross nurse on base. Of Quaker descent, Jolene was the first in her family to join the service, much to her parents’ dismay. Many on base said she resembled the actress Elizabeth Taylor because of her violet eyes, white skin, and raven hair. She was also a spitfire with words and a good drinking buddy when she was not working.
“It was good,” said Walter.
“Good? We got our ass handed to us,” chirped Aexl.
“It could not have been that bad?” inquired Jolene.
“No, it was bad Jolene. I should know I say the whole thing,” said Mable. Mable was the camp’s secretary and a fine one at that. She knew everything and everyone. It was both cute and terrifying, much like her features. Her fiery red hair and piercing brown eyes gave the allure of innocence, but she was like a jungle cat ready to pounce. A true calico
“Weren’t you supposed to be at work?” asked Jolene.
“I was. I was recording vital information,” she smiled, sipping her drink.
“She was the scorekeeper,” mused Walter. As the men continued drinking, Walter noticed Colonel Pierce enter the room. Pierce was the commander in charge of the 26th, and judging from his grim expression, something seemed off about him. The festivities ended abruptly when Colonel Pierce turned off the music.
“What the hell, Colonel?” cried the men. Many were drunk and confused by this, but before they could ask further, Pierce brought up a radio and turned a few dials to get the right signal. After a few tries, he intercepted a call from the capital, Washington. The message was static and messy, but four words were clear to the 26th: Pearl Harbor was attacked. The room was filled with gasps and the sound of broken glass shattering the floor. Pierce spoke to his men.
“I received word from Hawaii. The Empire of Japan conducted the attack on Pearl Harbor. Boys, I don’t need to tell you what this means. You all know what comes next,” he said to them. As he left, the men, still half drunk, rushed to grab their gear and horses. Walter, Aexl, and the two women were still in disbelief. Jolene took another sip of his gin.
“Pearl was bombed?” she said to herself. She threw the rest of the gin away and pulled out a cigarette to calm her nerves. She paced back and forth.
“Jolene had many friends there. I still can’t believe it. Why would they do this?”
“To take us out of the fight, plain and simple. After all, the US Navy is stationed primarily in Pearl. You take out Pearl, and you take out the US,” stated Aexl.
“That also means we were the last bastion of American forces in the Pacific. You know what that means,” said Walter.
“An invasion,” whispered Mable.
By the next day, all hell had broken loose. Unbeknownst to the American forces on Luzon, Japan pursued a rigid, systematic approach to its conquest of the Philippines. Initially, they struck at the air resources and established a landing field for close support. Then, they followed with an all-out air, sea, and land blitz to take the islands on a set schedule. Without too much trouble, Japan crushed America’s makeshift defense for several weeks in a vain attempt to hold them back. By late December, the only remaining force that could stop them was the 26th. Initially, they had the advantage. Luzon’s terrain was not conducive to mechanized warfare: thick steaming jungles, steep mountains, and roads that were principally dirt with little to no gravel. Seven hundred men with horses, swords, rifles, and a few homemade bombs were the land’s only hope, and Walter and Aexl were in the thick of it all. Walter, atop Thunder, slashed and ran the Japanese down on horseback while Aexl, mounting Peroza, gunned them down with pinpoint precision like a cowboy from the old west. They were unbeatable
For almost a month, they and the rest of the 26th hurled themselves and their mounts against machine guns and tanks, supported only by personnel carriers with thin armor and light machine guns; Pierce’s men slowed Japan’s onrushing divisions. Mounted on horses or riding in, they continually and aggressively counter-attacked the Japanese tanks. They sacrificed their lives to protect the Filipino and American troops as they fell back to the other islands. It was only a matter of time. By January of '42, the men of the 26th were sent to Battan to regroup with the rest of the American forces.
“How was reconnaissance?” asked Walter.
“What do you think?” replied Aexl. Aexl took a slump into his makeshift bed made of bamboo and straw. It was uncomfortable, but it was better than sleeping in the mud. After nearly a month of fighting, the 26th retreated to Battan to a small base. Many of the men were tired and running low on rations, not only for them but also for their horses. Command even ordered the men to shoot their horses to feed the Army north. Many protested while some went through with it, except for Aexl and Walter. While his friend took a nap, Walter was busy sharpening his sword. As he shared the tip, he thought back to a time back home when he would imagine himself a knight in the court of King Arthur and how he missed his childhood innocence. With a final polish, he put on his sword and turned his attention to his guns. He did an ammo count for his pistol and machine gun. Ammunition was scarce; thus, Pierce ordered his men to check their ammunition routinely. They had to conserve as much as they could.
“Only three clips for my Colt 1911 and two magazines for the Thompson. Not a lot to go on,” he said to himself. As he put his guns away, he turned and saw Colonel Pierce outside his tent.
“Sir,” he said aloud. He kicked Aexl to wake him up from his slumber.
“The hell, man,” yawed Aexl. The sleepy soldier turned his head and saw Pierce outside. He quickly scrambled out of bed and stood to attention. Pierce chuckled.
“At ease, men,” he said to them. May I come in?” Walter nodded his head yes. Making his way inside, Colonel Peirce informed his two officers of their latest assignment.
“Gentlemen, I had just received word from from General Wainright. We are being sent to Morong,” said Pierce.
“The small village with the church, sir,” asked Aexl. Pierce nodded yes. Morong was a small village with a few huts on a slice of land between the Batalan River and the swamp.
“Command wants us to set up a defensive perimeter and hold off General Homma’s 14th Army. They could flank the American and Filipino forces fronting the South China Sea. We leave in five. Grab your gear,” he ordered them. Leaving the tent, Aexl and Walter grabbed their gear and joined the rest of the riders, all twenty-seven of them. The trip to Morong was quick and easy, only a half-day ride. However, as they near the outline of the village, a bullet whizzed past Walter and then another.
“Incoming!” shouted Pierce. Within minutes, a unit of Japanese soldiers fired upon the cavalryman. Some of the officers dismounted and fired back at the Japanese. Walter and Aexl were the only ones still on horseback. They returned fire as well, firing their pistols and submachine guns.
“Aexl. Walter. Take a squad of riders and charge at those bastards!” ordered Pierce. Walter unsheathed his sword and called over five men to form a line. As the riders from a line in front of the others, He looked at his friend one last time. They knew this battle would be a suicide mission, but they did not care. They would make their final stand here. With a smile, he pointed his sword at the enemy and yelled at the top of his lungs.
“Charge!”
Thank you to everyone for your love and support in the new year. Look out for more releases soon regarding my next book and other WIPs. In addition, make sure to check out AudioMazes and share it with friends and family. While the world may be bleak, this is a Golden Age for us Indie creators, so let us use our gifts to come together and bring about something brighter than anything we can imagine.