Divided into 3 major parts, my newest project, Hebbros, begins years before the time of The Heart of Arcrea, and stretches to take place after The Arcrean Conquest has come to a close. Take a look at this scene, which may sound a bit familiar...

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Lord Frederick finished a turn and gently brought his sword around to meet the one held by his seven-year-old daughter, Elaina. She flashed him a dimpled smile that emanated confidence and then returned her focus to the weapons held carefully in the space between them. The two continued the intricate pattern of steps that comprised the Arcrean Sword Reel, a dance introduced by their land’s ancient natives and passed down to subsequent generations. Lord Frederick offered quiet instructions whenever the girl faltered.
Pausing briefly after an overzealous turn, Elaina brushed loose black curls from her face and then adjusted her grip on the pommel of her child-sized sword.
“Take the steps gently, daughter,” Frederick gave her an amused smile, “We’ll go faster when you know them so well you could dance it in your sleep.”
Her dark eyes glittered with humor, “I’d like that.” She copied the downward slant of her father’s sword and they made a full turn around one another before she grinned mischievously, “Wouldn’t Mother make a fuss about that?”
Frederick caught a laugh before it escaped, trying and failing to give her a stern look, “Tut tut, child. You mustn’t delight in vexing your poor mother.”
Elaina ignored his mild rebuke, “Here comes the box step. Then my favorite part where our swords meet at the cross-guard!”
The box step was performed in graceful movements, and when the swords locked as Elaina had anticipated the dancers paused long enough for Frederick to tap a finger against his daughter’s nose. She rewarded him with an impish grin and backed away to continue the reel. When the last step had been completed the two sheathed their swords and Lord Frederick made a low bow.
“Beautifully done.”