Dark Lord of Kismera: Knights of Kismera (57 page)

Nimbus and Azure had a telepathic conversation as they flew back to Morenta.

“Little Brann will someday be a great warrior I think,” Azure remarked.

“Yes, and I see a leader. He will be one of the greatest Lords in the history of the Werren people. But I see two others to join him, to stand on each side of him.”

“Really? Do you know whose children they will be?”

“I am not for sure. I see only a blur for the sire and mother of them. But they will come soon, I think. The fun is in the wait, do you not agree?”

Azure did a slow spin and then straightened. “What is time to a dragon, Father? In that we are the richest.”

F
irst and foremost, I want to thank my husband and kids for dealing with the time I spent working on this book. My daughters would ask regularly, “So, what did Drace do today?” The unicorns are for Cassidy, and the fairies are for Jenn. For my husband, Ritch, who did not yell at me when I was cursing the computer when it crashed and died at 3:00 a.m. one morning, and I lost several pages of new work. Instead, he gave me a new computer for Mother’s Day.

Julie Hahn, one of my best friends in the world, who helped with most of the preliminary editing. Thanks a million. I couldn’t have done it without you.

To Larry Kupka, for his contributions as well. I’d still be at square one.

Welby Horton, who also worked with editing in the beginning, helping me learn how to use detail and suggestion.

Melissa Thompson, another of my best friends and a computer wizard. You saved me from certain insanity when my computer did things I had no clue how to solve. I did have to use restraint and not call that morning at 3:00, but you did take all my calls at the saner hours. Thank you.

Manuel Muniz, who let me view his CD of Las Vegas and the surrounding attractions. They were very informative and helpful. I’ve now seen as much of Vegas as Ki.

The Nevada Commission on Tourism, for speedily sending me all sorts of information. I hope others get to see the Valley of Fire. I certainly do hope to.

Dr. Karlan Downing, M.D., for telling me what injuries Drace might receive when his horse flips over onto him, keeping in mind we couldn’t kill him off or that would be the end of the story.

Diane Gonzales, occupational therapist, who educated me of the treatment of collapsed lungs and shattered ribs. And for thinking the story sounded really cool.

Sharon Hairell, who helped me when I got some major writer’s block, with an excellent suggestion for having a scene of conflict at Drace and Ki’s ball.

Bruce DeShazer, for being the first to read most of the manuscript, and making me laugh. I also want to thank him for getting me in touch with his sister Rene DeShazer, who needs to be thanked as well for giving me a lot of useful advice towards my manuscript.

Mary Jo Leahy, an awesome lady and friend, and a wonderful boss. Thanks for everything you’ve done for me.

Finally, thanks to everyone who read bits and pieces and gave their opinions and comments. That input is what made me decide to pursue this further than just putting some words to paper while I was waiting on my kids.

If I have left out anyone, please note that it was not intentional and these thanks extend to you as well.