Character Spotlight--Aaron O'Kelly and Trent Kane

Here's two more character spotlights for y'all! ;)


Aaron O'Kelly is what you would call Kevin's right hand man. He has been with Kevin since the beginning  and is very loyal to his friend. When Kevin is gone, the men respect him as the person in command and Aaron doesn't take that lightly. He's about Kevin's height and he has brown, wavy hair and blue eyes. He as, like Kevin, a master with the sword.

“No, Kevin. It what he wants. Can’t you see that?” Aeden, the leader of the three mysterious men pulled him around to face him. “Once Merek knows he has your siblings, he’ll not go looking for you anymore because you’ll come to him. He knows how you feel about your family. The most natural thing would be for you to try and get them back.

Kevin stared at him for a long moment, his eyes flashing, “They are my siblings. Whether you come or not is up to you, but I’m going. We all know where they’re headed, am I right?” he glanced around the circle of men. One by one they all nodded.

“Of course, Kevin. We all know where they’d go and Merek knows that we would know.It’s what he’s counting on.” Aaron said exasperated.

“Don’t you see? It’s a trap, Kevin. And you're just going to walk straight into it?”

It was Kevin’s turn to be exasperated, “What do you take me for? What have we been trying to do for the last four years? Get Merek of course! Now he’s given me a perfect excuse to do it. We’ll get Willem and Eira back and at the same time, we’ll get Merek.”

“How? We don’t have enough men and you know it. Merek has a band of followers that are there to carry out his every wish.”

“We’re three more then we were before.” Kevin stubbornly replied. Aaron shook his head in defeat. When an O’Brien made up his mind, there was no stopping him. It was either go along for the ride or else. He chose to go along for the ride.-Excerpt from The Silent Blade

“Aaron, we can’t just stand here and let this happen!” Patrick, one of the men who had come with Kevin sputtered in frustration.

Aaron, his hand on the hilt of his sword, glanced back the way Kevin had left. Everything that was in him agreed with Patrick. How could they stand there and let their leader be taken by the enemy?

He glanced over at Diarmuid and caught his eye. Diarmuid shook his head slightly and Aaron sighed. Why should Diarmuid be the one who told them what to do? He hadn't been with Kevin those four years. Yet, if he was honest with himself , he knew Diarmuid was right. If they stormed into Merek’s camp now, they wouldn’t have a chance of winning. God, please be with Kevin, and be with us. Guide our steps. He silently prayed before turning to Patrick.

“We’ll wait until Cian gets back with Aeden and Casimir. If we try to attack now, we’ll be slaughtered and that wouldn’t be of any help to Kevin.”

At that moment the sentry turned, “Cian is back.”

Aaron turned as both he and Diarmuid hurried toward the edge of the forest where Cian could be seen returning with the other four.

Aaron started when he saw Willem, Why he looks more like he could be Kevin’s twin! The brothers had the same reddish-blond hair, green eyes and muscular build as well as a height that well exceeded six feet. He smiled slightly as he realized the fact that is was Willem and Eira that were twins; the two looked nothing alike.--Excerpt from The Silent Blade

Trent is one of Kevin's men. He was trained in swordsmanship by Kevin and is one of the most trusted among the men. He has a quick and ready sense of humor, yet within a moments notice can be turn serious and focused. He is tall with broad shoulders and dark hair. Though he is one of the younger men, he has proven himself to be worthy of the trust Kevin has placed in him.

“So, how long have you known Eira?” Trent asked as they neared Merek’s camp. Casimir sighed. The whole trip he had desperately tried to avoid the subject, but it seemed Trent would not let it go.
“I’ve known Willem my whole life, we were best friends when we were younger. Eira is his twin sister and she was always tagging along. So I’ve pretty much known her my whole life as well.”
“You must be pretty good friends?” There was no doubt to what Trent was suggesting.
“Yes, we’re friends. And that’s all.” There was also no doubt to what Casimir’s voice was trying to get across. Trent ignored the warning tone and continued.
“She seems like a nice girl. I mean, I really don’t know her to well, but I think she's nice. It’s too bad you’re going to have to let her down, I mean, I don’t know about you, but I think our chances of getting to the cave in once piece are pretty slim.”
“I think your chances of getting to the cave alive dropped drastically  the moment you opened your mouth.”
Trent grinned, “Sorry, I can tell you're not to fond of teasing. It’s just there’s not really much else to do and you’re the only person around to tease. I usually try to find someone who is a little more agreeable if you know what I mean.”
Casimir clenched his teeth. Who did this guy think he was? And how in the world did Kevin put up with him? Whirling around, he stopped, “If you cannot be positive then at least be quiet! We are attempting to rescue Kevin who is being held by a madman who is out for revenge. Can we please stop all this idle talk and focus on the task in front of us?”
Trent took a step back, “I’m sorry, I didn’t realize it was bothering you so much. Of course, I’ll be quite.”--Excerpt from The Silent Blade

Trent glanced at the heavy green foliage around them ,”I think we should get closer. We need to be able to keep an eye on what’s happening.”

Casimir cautiously agreed, “Alright, but we can’t get too close. Merek may have guards out, in fact, unless he’s crazy, he will have guards out.”

They slowly crept closer to the camp, being careful to stay hidden behind the trees and bushes. Presently they came to a place where they could clearly see that fire, but still stay hidden. Casimir put a finger to his lips as the sounds of voices drifted across the night air.

“I’m heading in,” Rowen set the cup down on the hot stones, “You planning on staying up?”

Merek noded, “I told the men they didn't have to stay up and watch. Henry and I can do it tonight.”

“But shouldn't you have someone watching the woods?”

“I can see them from here,” Merek snapped.

Rowen shrugged, “Alright. I’ll see you two tomorrow morning.”

He stood up, then disappeared into one of the huts.

Casimir and Trent exchanged a glance. There are no other guards! Casimir could hardly believe it. He glanced back towards the fire. Kevin still sat on the ground tied to one of the smaller trees.

“I hope you’re mighty good with your sword,” Casimir whispered to Trent.

“I am, what is your plan?”

“I’m estimating that by the time they realize we’re there, we’ll have about thirty seconds before anyone else is alerted. I’ll rush in there and try to distract them; you cut Kevin’s rope and get him out of there. Don’t look back, just go. I’ll catch up as soon as I can.”

“Casimir, are you sure?”

“It’s the only way. Now, lets do it.”

Trent nodded.

Casimir stood and advanced toward the fire, coming in behind Henry and Merek. He was about five feet away when he stepped on a dry twig. It snapped beneath his weight and both Merek and Henry turned. Stay in the shadows where they couldn't see him, Casimir stayed hidden as they both stood and unsheathed their swords, walking slowly toward him. Casimir glanced beyond them and saw Trent silently slip behind Kevin’s tree. Now If only I can keep their attention.

He reached out the tip of his sword and expertly knocked the sword out of Henry’s hand, it landed with a clang on the rocks.

Merek turned, seeing Casimir for the first time and lunged toward him. Casimir ducked from the blow and brought his own sword up, catching Merek by surprise and causing him to take a step backwards. In between dodging Merek’s blade and wielding his own, he saw Trent disappear into the woods, Kevin draped over his shoulder. Perfect! Now if only I can get away before anyone else comes!

Henry had retrieved his sword and Casimir was trying to dodge one blade at the same time he raised his to detract the second blow . Alone, neither of them would have been to difficult, but together they were almost unbeatable. Casimir glanced toward the huts. The other men had been awakened; it was time to get out of here.  With a mighty thrust he brought his sword up and hit both blades, then dropped to the ground and rolled out of the way as Merek’s sword came crashing down. Hastily he sheathed it, then began to run. At that moment he felt a searing pain tear through his side. The edge of Henry’s blade had caught him below his right shoulder. Tucking a hand around himself in an effort to staunch the flow of blood, Casimir continued to run, Merek close behind him. The blood was trickling through his fingers and he felt himself beginning to weaken. A short burst of speed caused him to gain ground, but then he began to feel faint. He slowed, searching for a place to hide. He slipped to ground at the same time he heard a voice call his name. Looking up, he saw Trent running toward him.

Casimir shook his head, “No--Kevin. Stay--with--Kevin.”

Trent paid no mind and reached an arm underneath his shoulders. The last thing Casimir was aware of, was being picked up and carried as a searing pain shot through him and he slipped off into unconsciousness. --Excerpt from The Silent Blade

Sisterhood award!

Hi everyone! I was nominated by Shantelle from A Writers Heart  for the Sisterhood of world bloggers award. Thanks, Shantelle! :)
Okay here are the rules:
-Thank the blogger who nominated you, linking back to their site.
-Put the award logo on your blog.
-Answer the ten questions sent to you
-Make up ten new questions for your nominees to answer.
-Nominate ten blogs.

Okay, now to answer the questions! :D

What genre have you read the most this year?
Historical fiction, but it's closely seconded by christian fantasy. I love both genres, but historical fiction is probably my favorite!

Do you enjoy fairytales? Which ones do you like the most?
I do enjoy an occasional fairytale, but I don't read them often! My favorite would probably have to be Cinderella. :D

Favorite Dessert?
Chocolate cake with Chocolate frosting and Chocolate or Rocky Road ice cream. With a cup of coffee of course. Can you tell I love chocolate??? Don't worry, it's not a dessert I have very often. ;)

Which Disney princes are you most like and why?
I have to say I honestly haven't watched a lot of the Disney princess movies. Out of alllll the movies, I've only see Cinderella, Sleeping Beauty, Snow White, Tangled and Frozen. Out of those, probably Rapunzel from Tangled. She wants to more about the world around here and can't stand staying on one place for to long. And she can be. . .feisty. :) Although, I'm not near as outgoing as her!

Which Disney Prince do you consider the most dashing?
Probably Cinderella's prince. He's so nice and dashing and he searches the whole kingdom for his true love. Which is pretty sweet!

What was your favorite blog post this year?
Ahhhh!!! There have been so many amazing posts I've loved! My top favorites would probably have to be the Hijacked! post on The Imaginary world of Emily McConnell  and the Oh, America post on A Writers Heart.  I also LOVED the Movie Review: When Calls the Heart: Season 2  on A Writers Heart. ;) There are so many more I want to mention, but I'm pretty sure I can't list more then a couple! :)

A few books I hope to read soon?
Uhh, you want a list? :-)
Heartbreak Trail by Susan K. Marlow
A Dream not Imagined by Shantelle Mary Hannu
Trust and Deception by Melissa Troutman
Dare by Tricia Mingerink
Red Crisis (once it's published!) by Emily McConnell
Okay, that's more then a few. ;)

Favorite book of the year?
Augh!! This is so hard to choose!! Right now it's be The Knights of Arrethrae series by Chuck Black, but that will probably change in a week or two. ;)

Summer or Winter?
Summer!! Besides the fact that my birthday is in summer, I love the hot weather and the surprises summer always seems to bring!!! :)

One goal you have?
Finish The Silent Blade before August! We're planning on going on vacation and I'd dearly love to have it finished before we go!!

Those we're fun to answer!! :D
I nominate: /Emily McConnell/  /Rebekah Eddy/  /Faith P./  /Bethany R./  /Rishona/  /Lauren/ /Jordan L./

And here are your questions! :D
What are you most looking forward to this summer?
What is your favorite movie this year?
Favorite instrument?
Favorite genre of books to read?
Favorite Bible verse?
Favorite historical era?
Favorite short story?
Favorite food?
Favorite hymn?
Favorite movie soundtrack?

Yeah. .  .I want to know all your favorites! I can't wait to read y'all's answers! Oh, and if I tagged you but you'd rather not do a post, that's fine! ;)

Character spotlight--Stace Nolan

Okay, here's another spotlight! Oh, and an update on Dark Storm Rising.  I'm about ready to order the proof copy! So, yeah, I'm super excited! :) Anyway, here's this week's character spotlight. I'll post another excerpt of The Silent Blade tomorrow!

As you can tell from the last name, Stace and Rowen are brothers. Rowen is the older of the two and Stace is quite a bit younger. Stace has a kind heart hidden beneath his outward appearance as one of Merek's men. Stace and Henry are Merek's messengers and are often sent out to do whatever various jobs and assignments Merek thinks are necessary. Though, unlike Henry, Stace doesn't particularly enjoy the assignments. Henry looks down on Stace, seeing his kindness as a weakness. Though, there is one more sore spot for Henry. . .Stace can always beat him with the sword.
Stace is tall and muscular with brown hair and grayish-blue eyes. There are two excerpts today because I need them both to help show Stace's character.  Both have to do with Eira's rather unfortunate cooking. ;)

Eira was startled by Merek’s voice as he walked over to her, “You girl, go and make us some soup. My men have fish and I want to have a warm, home cooked meal for once in my life.”

Eira looked at him blankly, “Uh, sir. I can’t walk. My ankle. . .” her voice trailed off and Merek’s gaze traveled down to her ankle which  had already swollen to twice its normal size.

Merek swore under his breath and Eira looked at him, startled. “Haven’t you been taught not to say such things?” the words were out before she could stop them.

Merek simply stared at her and she squirmed under his gaze. She liked the yelling Merek better, when he was quiet it seemed to signal that he was extremely angry with you. . .and his eyes further confirmed the fact.

“I--don’t like--to be questioned.” his words were carefully measured and controlled, “is that clear?”

Eira nodded.

“Now, I will help you over to the fire, and I want that soup. Have I made myself clear?”

Once again Eira nodded, not bringing her eyes up to meet his. She felt his arm go around her as he helped her over to the fire. The fish had been cleaned, and when she glanced around to see who had done it, she caught Willem’s grin from across the fire.. Of course, Willem! I certainly hope he can help me with the soup. The last time I made anything mother proclaimed it not fit to be eaten!

As Merek left her alone, she tried to catch his eye without making it obvious. When softly calling his name didn’t make a difference, she picked up a pebble from the ground and tossed it at him. She missed and was just about to try again when a soft chuckle made her look up. Stace stood behind her eying her in amusement.

“Would you like me to get your brother for you?” his eyes twinkled merrily down at her.

Eira’s face flushed red, “You saw all that?”

He laughed, “I did.”

“Yes, I would greatly appreciate it if you could get Willems attention for me!” she said as Willem walked into one of the huts.

He winked at her, “Wait here, I’d be happy to.” He walked over and entered the hut, reappearing a moment later with Willem.

“Do you need something, Eira?” Willem asked as he hurried over to her, Stace leaned against the side of the hut and watched them with, Eira noticed, the same twinkle in his eye. She tried to block him out as she turned to Willem. “I’m supposed to make soup and--”

“You'd rather not have Merek’s fish become ‘unfit to eat’?”

Eira nodded.

Willem grinned, “All right, I’ll help you and then I’ll take a look at your ankle. Merek told me you fell and needed help.”

Eira grimaced, she’d make sure Willem got the whole story about what exactly had happened.--Excerpt from The Silent Blade

Eira looked around in dismay. Fresh fish had been caught just that morning and they were tossed haphazardly in a bucket, still whole.  A knife nearby told what she was expected to do. Her eyes scanned the men who were talking quietly among themselves. Willem was nowhere to be seen.

She picked up a knife and gingerly picked up a fish. She had seen her mother clean fish lots of times. It couldn’t be that hard. . .could it? The knife slipped easily through the scales and cut the fish’s body in two. She turned the halves over and laid them on the ground.

“Want any help?”

She turned toward the voice, Stace stood there, his eyes silently laughing at her. Why is he always around when I make a fool of my self? she wondered.

“Yes, please,” she glanced sheepishly down at the bucket of fish.

Stace sat down on the ground next to her and, taking a dagger from his pocket, began to slit the fish and remove their insides.

“I’m assuming you didn’t cook much at home?”

She shook her head, “Not at all. Mother’s tried to teach me, but I just can’t seem to get it!’”

“Well, when Merek hurried your brother back to Arden I figured you might need some help. Especially after last night.”

“You, um, won’t say anything to Merek, will you?”

He shook his head, “Merek doesn't care much what the rest of us do as long as he doesn’t need us for something. So when your brother’s not here, I’ll be happy to help.”

She gave him a small smile, “Thank you. But what is Merek after anyway? And what does it have to do with Kevin?”

At this, the smile left Stace’s eyes.

“If your brother hasn’t said anything to you all these years, then I figure he doesn’t want you to know. Here, you’d better watch how this is done just in case there is a time neither Willem or I am here to help you.” He abruptly changed the subject as he chose another fish in the bucket and began to cut it open.

Eira sighed silently as she watched him clean the fish. What could Kevin have done to deserve this sort of anger and hatred? she wondered.

In what seemed no time at all, Stace had finished cleaning the fish and they were sizzling over the open fire.--Excerpt from The Silent Blade

Happy Independence Day!!

I hope you all have an amazing Independence day as we celebrate our freedom! Just remember, as Christians, we have the freedom that comes from knowing Christ and that is the true freedom! I wrote a short story on Freedom, you can read it on my other blog A Kansas Wind.

Character Spotlight--Rowen Nolan and Henry Walsh

Okay, two bad guy spotlights today! :) Since neither of them would have been very long, I decided to put these two together.Plus, that means you also get more excerpts from The Silent Blade ;)

Rowen is Merek's second-in-command. When Merek isn't around, what Rowen says is what goes. He isn't cunning like Merek and he prefers to say what he means instead of putting on a show. He is the same height as Merek, but has sandy brown hair and brown eyes.

“Willem, ride with Arden.” Rowen commanded, “I’m sure the bumps of the wagon will be uncomfortable and perhaps you can help make the ride smoother for him.” he said changing his tone until it seemed almost a request and not a command.

Willem gave Eira’s hand a squeeze, then hopped up into the wagon.

“Eira you can ride double with me,” Rowen began as he unsheathed his sword and cut the rope between her ankles. Then he mounted, pulling her up behind him as the small group began to move away from the anchored ship and toward the grove of trees.~~Excerpt from The Silent Blade

Henry can handle a sword quite well and is often chosen to carry out whatever assignments Merek and Rowen decide need done. He has dark brown nearly black hair and brown eyes. He is ruthless and can be quite mean and cruel, especially when he feels someone has cheated him.

“Don’t ask. Just drop your sword and come with us.” Eira tried to turn toward the unexpected voice, but the point of a sword brushing across her cloak stopped her.

Eira glanced back at the first man who now had his sword raised as well. Knowing she didn’t have a chance, she threw it down, then took a step backwards and turned to face the man who stood behind her.

“Those swords are sharp, gentleman. Be careful with how you use them.”

‘Don’t you be tellin’ us how to use our swords. You're just a slip of a girl. I’ll bet you carry that sword around just for show.” The first man sneered, his sword still raised. The second man had put his sword back into its sheath, and then picked up Eira’s.

“Don’t tease her, Henry. Lets just get going.”

“No, Stace. First I want to see if she can use that sword.”

“Henry---”

“One little round won’t hurt anything.”

“Merek said to do exactly what he told us. He didn't tell us to test her swordsmanship.”

Eira gasped, “Merek? He sent you? I knew something wasn’t right! Why does he want me? I don’t know anything that can help him.”

“Oh, just be quiet!” Henry snapped in an irritated voice. “Stace, give her the sword. No one will tell Merek and he’ll never know.”

Stace grinned as he handed Eira the sword, “This’ll be fun to see.”

Eira took the sword, then turned to Henry, “I don’t want to.”

Henry chuckled, “I suggest you do it or your brother will be dealt with harshly.”

“WIllem? What have you done to him?”

“Settle down. We haven’t done anything yet.” Stace replied. “Now, do as Henry tells you. I want to see if you're as good as your friend says you are.”
“My friend?”

“Yes, the boy in the blacksmiths shop. He said you were better with the sword then most.”

“And how would you know? You weren’t there.”

“Rowen happened to mention it.” Henry impatiently replied. “Now draw your sword and lets get on with it. Don’t worry, this won’t take long.” he added with a glance directed at Stace.

He raised his sword as Eira drew hers, then with a metallic clang they joined together. Stace looked in wonder at the rapid pace of the swords. Her friend had not been wrong. She handled a sword better than most men he knew. The swords went faster and faster; Stace noted that Henry was beginning to tire. Serves him right. he  thought. Henry won’t be so eager to go against Merek’s orders again.

Then, in one smooth arc, EIra bought the tip of her sword up and knocked Henry’s sword out of his hands and it landed with a clatter on the rocks.

Henry took a step back, breathing heavily then picked up his sword.

Eira sheathed her own sword and then glanced at Henry but before she could speak, Stace reached over. “You’d better hand me that sword.”

Eira unclasped the belt that held it around her waist and handed it to him. Henry, who had caught his breath turned to her with a growl, “Why you little--”

“No, Henry. You’re the one who wanted it and she beat you fair and square.” He fastened Eira’s sword around his waist next to his own, then turned, “We’d better get going. Rowen and Merek want to leave tonight and we still have one more errand to complete.”~~Excerpt from The Silent Blade

And here's a clip that has them both in it!

Eira was exhausted from the long ride and it wasn’t over yet. She had resisted the urge to lean her head on Rowen’s back this long, but she knew she couldn't keep it up much longer. Her eyes grew heavy and the plodding of the horse made her want to do nothing more then drift off to sleep. Then, without even realizing it, she drifted off to sleep.

A sudden jerk startled her and woke her. She nearly fell into Henry's arms as he roughly pulled her off the horse. She winced as a sharp pain shot through her ankle at the same moment her feet hit the ground.

“Henry, I said to be careful!” Rowen dismounted and helped her to her feet, casting a withering glance at Henry when he realized she couldn't put any weight on her right ankle. 

Henry only grinned at her, the ice in his eyes as cold as ever. Eira knew it hadn’t been an accident, and she also knew Henry would try his best to make these small “accidents” as frequent as possible. Better try and make sure I always stay close to Willem,Stace or Rowen. . .even Merek. Anyone’s got to be better than Henry!

Rowen helped her as she limped over to a tree stump and sat down, “Now you just stay here and I’ll send your brother over to take a look at your ankle.”

Character Spotlight--Merek Flynn

Merek. . . oh yes, now we get to the bad guys! B-)
Merek and Kevin used to be good friends, but as they grew older, they also grew apart. Merek left Dublin when he turned twenty, and returned six years later. They events that happened when he returned created the backstory for The Silent Blade.  Merek now has a band of men and they await the day when they can get revenge on one of the O'Briens, Kevin. They will get revenge in any way possible.
Merek is tall, though not as tall as Kevin. He has broad shoulders and dark black hair. He is the same age as Kevin and can wield a sword with little difficulty, although he is not a master at the sport of swordsmanship. He is ruthless and will do anything to achieve his goal, but if he chooses can be quite charming and chivalrous.

The charming side of Merek. ;)

At that moment, a shadow entered the shop Eira looked up to see the two men standing in the doorway. They were of average build both being around five feet ten inches tall.One of them had a rugged look about him; his sandy hair was windblown and the stubble on his chin showed he was in need of a shave. The other had darker brown hair which was neatly combed into place and a beard that was neatly trimmed.

“Excuse us, but can you tell us where to find a doctor?” the dark-haired man asked.

The blacksmith looked up from his worked, but before he could answer, Eira spoke up.

“My Father is a doctor, sir. I could take you to him.”

The man nodded, “Thank you, lass. But It’s not for us. You see, we have a friend who is hurt out on our ship and he’s too bad to be moved.”

“Oh, I’m sure he’d come to him. What happened?”

“Well, we were on our way home from trading when a fierce storm came up. He was up in the rigging when a wave tossed the boat and caused him to lose his grip and he fell onto the deck. He’s got a large splinter in his arm and we’re afraid he might have broken his leg.”

“Sounds like ye have had quite a time of it,” the blacksmith remarked as he handed the sword back to Casimir.

“Aye, sir.” The man nodded.

Casimir stepped forward and extended his hand. “My name is Casimir and I’m a friend of Eira. We’ll be happy to take you to the doctor, he’s not to far from here.”

Their hands met in a firm handshake and the man spoke, “My name is Merek and this is my friend, Rowan.”

The blond-haired man nodded, but Eira noticed he kept glancing uneasily around the shop.

“Do you know how to use that sword, girl?”

Eira looked up at him in surprise. The man hadn’t spoken since they’d entered the shop. She glanced down at the sword that was partially hidden under her cape, “Yes, sir. I can use it a little.”

Casimir laughed, “A little? Why Eira can handle it almost as good as I can and better than most!” As they were talking, Casimir had led the way out of the blacksmiths shop and started through Dublin. In minutes they were walking up the small lane that led to the O’Brien house. 

The sinister side of Merek B-)

Merek narrowed his eyes as they followed the four that were quickly disappearing from sight. “His sister. He’ll come if we have his sister.”

Rowen drew back in surprise, “And how are we going to get her? She wears a sword and I don’t doubt she knows how to use it.”

“What’s that matter? We can have Henry and Stace to find her.”

“I still fail to see how this is easier than just getting the boy.”

“Let me put it this way; would you rather fight a young man who is well over six feet tall, or a girl who is slim and at most five feet seven?”

Rowen nodded, “Point taken. We need to leave today.”

“Alright, I’ll go and get Henry and Stace. They shouldn't have any trouble.”-- Excerpt from The Silent Blade.

Character spotlight--Kevin O'Brien

Kevin is 30 years old and the eldest of the O'Brien siblings. He is much like Willem in his physical appearance, tall and muscular with reddish-blond hair, although his personality is more like Eira's.
Of the four O'Brien siblings, Kevin and Eira are the closest despite their age difference, They have very similar interests and personalities, and Eira has referred to Kevin as "her knight in shinning armor."
For one particular reason, Kevin has not been around much the last couple years, hoping his staying away from the family will keep them safe and out of danger. Unfortunately, it didn't.
Kevin is also a master with the sword and one of Eira's favorite pastimes is for him to teach her more, although Kevin has realized there isn't much more he can teach her. ;)

Kevin located the stream with little difficulty, but stayed back in the trees for a moment as his gaze fell on Eira. She sat next to the stream, her sword by her side and her full dress forming a circle around her. Her black hair cascaded down her back in soft waves and her blue eyes were sober and thoughtful. I have a beautiful sister he thought with pride. But not only on the outside, she’s just as beautiful on the inside.

He smiled, “Eira.”

She turned slowly, almost as though she believed he wasn’t really there. When she caught sight of him standing there, she jumped to her feet and flew across the grass toward him. He began to run toward her and they met halfway. He picked her up and swung her around while she laughed. When he finally set her down, her face was flushed and a huge smile lit her face, “Kevin! It’s so good to see you!”

He grinned and tousled her hair, laughing as she ducked, “It’s good to see you too.”--Excerpt from The Silent Blade

Character spotlight--Casimir Lannon

Here's another character spotlight!! I'll post an excerpt from the first chapter of the book tomorrow, but until then, here's the character spotlight :) 

Casimir Lannon is Willem's best friend and also a close friend of Eira's. At eighteen, he is two years older then the them and he also feels it's his place to look after Eira (when Willem isn't around. ;). He grew up in Dublin, his father is the village chieftain and his mother was killed when he was a child.Growing up as a chieftains son, Casimir has always felt a sense of responsibility towards others, and blames himself if anything goes wrong while he's with them. He is tall, well over six feet. He has dark brown, almost black, hair and he can wield a sword easier then anyone else can use a fork. Eira has taken lessons from him, and has learned to love swordsmanship, much to the dismay of her
mother. :)

Casimir glanced at Eira who was beginning to walk away from the clearing with Willem. “I’ll deal with you later.” he shook his finger at Trent and began to walk towards the twins.

“I’ll be waiting.” Trent called after him.

Casimi shook his head, I’m going to be with him for the next several hours?

“Eira, wait.”

Eira turned.

“What was it you needed earlier?”

She looked down sheepishly, “Nothing really.”

“No, there was something. What was it?”

“Just, be careful! Please. I don’t want you or Kevin or even Trent hurt.”

“I wouldn't worry too much about Trent.” Casmir muttered.

“What did you say?”

“”Oh, nothing, nothing at all.”

“You’ll be careful, won’t you?”

Casimir smiled, “you’re really worried aren’t you?”

“Well wouldn’t you be if your best friend and older brother were in danger?” Eira asked indignantly.

“Of course. I promise, we’ll be careful And you be just as careful as you want me to be, you hear?” he smiled at her.

She nodded, “Alright. It’s a deal. I’ll be praying.”

“And so will I. Now, I’ve got to go and so do you.” he pointed to the men who were already following Aeden out of the clearing. Willem was waiting for his sister at a respectful distance.

Casimir lifted her chin,. “Now, I’ll see you later.” he grinned at her, then began to walk back towards Trent.

“So how’d it go?" Trent asked, a mischievous grin on his face, “Are you ready for the duel?”

“You know what? On second thought I don’t think you’d want to face a duel with me right now. I try not to use my sword when I’m irritated.”

“Are you sure? I mean I wouldn’t want you to miss out on practice on account of me.”

“The sun is below the trees. We need to get started.” Casimir turned and began walking in the direction of Merek’s camp.

Trent grinned and began to follow, “Alright. Whatever you say!”

Casimir groaned, This is going to be a long night.

Character spotlight--Willem O'Brien

So are y'all ready for the next character spotlight??? Well, today, instead of getting one excerpt from the book, you'll get two. And before you think I'm being nice, it's only because I kinda need the extra part to help describe Willem. :)

Willem is Eira's twin. . .but the two are nothing alike! Willem is the older of the two, and his personality is very different from Eira's. Willem tends to think things over before he acts and it's not often his temper gets the best of him. . .although when he does get angry, you want to steer clear! He enjoys studying and is currently apprenticed to his father who is a  healer (doctor).  His looks are also just about as different from Eira as his temperament. And here's where the excerpt comes in to describe him for you :)

'Aaron started when he saw Willem, Why he looks more like he could be Kevin’s twin! The brothers had the same reddish-blond hair, green eyes and muscular build as well as a height that well exceeded six feet. He smiled slightly as he realized the fact that it was Willem and Eira who were twins; the two looked nothing alike.'

So, yeah. That pretty much describes Willem! He takes after his mothers scottish background in his looks. :) He plays a big part in The Silent Blade and. .. yeah. . .I'd better not say anymore!

“Hold still, Eira.” Willem had unlaced the leather shoe and was trying to gently pull it off over the swollen foot. Supper was over and Willem had finally found time to look at her ankle. The soup had turned out quite tasty as Eira knew it would. Thankfully, neither Rowen or Merek saw him helping and Stace hadn't said a thing.

“It hurts!” she exclaimed suddenly as she pulled her foot back.

He sat back and looked at her, “It'll hurt a lot worse If you don’t let me look at it.”

“And what exactly are you going to do? It’s not like there’s some special salve that will help a sprained ankle.”

Willem gave her the you’d-better-do-what-I-say-and-don’t-ask-any-questions look.  Eira groaned, but sat still as Willem continued to gently ease the shoe off. Even though Willem was usually easy going, there were times you simply didn’t cross him. Eira had learned to sense when her older brother was set on having his way--and this was one of those times.

~Except from The Silent Blade