I am fortunate to have some excellent help as I flesh out my novel; major contributors to the project are listed here.

Avi is a recent graduate of San Francisco State University; he is a journalist with experience at the San Francisco Examiner. An excellent storyteller in his own right, his breadth and depth of knowledge in crafting excellent science fiction and fantasy tales is very impressive. While my draft is not yet ready to undergo major revisions, he has already been invaluable to me just by virtue of being a sounding board and providing great suggestions to flesh out my fantasy realm and characters.

Mr. Bailey teaches Okinawan Shito-Ryu Karate and 18th Century Scottish Highland Broadsword at Bailey's Academy. He has a 33-year background in Karate and kobudo, and is a recognized broadsword instructor with the Historic Fencing Association. Co-founder of the Northwest Fencing Alliance, he also served as fight director as well as constructing armor for the independent film "Westender." His knowledge of history is incredible and he himself is descended from a 500-year old family containing much royalty; in fact, he is the 13th generation Head of the House of Bailey and a knight of The Order of the Black Tower.

He graciously agreed to meet with me to help me choreograph a katana/broadsword duel for my novel, and also assisted me with my understanding of weapons and armor design. Special thanks also to his talented student Cameron, who kindly participated in the fight choreography.

Nick Nugent of NRN Design is a recent graduate of the Otis College of Art and Design with a BFA in Digital Media; he is currently working on an exciting new Hollywood web site for Arjay Entertainment. Nick is the most talented artist that I know... he creates amazing motion and still graphics as well as prop, concept and comic-book style character art. He's given me invaluable input about sword design and a great deal of advice and encouragement regarding my other artistic endeavors.

What's more, Nick is also a wonderful storyteller; he is in the process of creating his own intricate, unique fantasy tale entitled Aiemara: Bloodlines, and I believe it is going to make him famous someday. He's also been a wonderful listener and sounding board for my myriad of plot and character ideas.

I would also like to take some time to thank the myriad of other people who continue to support and assist me throughout this project.

• My husband, James -- My biggest fan, he often offers some good ideas to improve the story... and he also puts up with me and bears the brunt of the financial burden while I struggle to become a successful writer. He is wonderful, loving and irreplacable, and my world would be a much more drab place without him.
  
  
• My best friend, Jaime -- My "other" soulmate and biggest fan, she's a great writer (though she denies it) and always offers excellent, no-nonsense advice. This book would not be what it is today without her input.
  
  
• My mother, Joana -- Another cheerleader of mine, she went through my entire draft so far and made excellent notes of encouragement and advice for improvement. A conservative Christian woman of excellence, she has promised to get a tattoo (something she would never ever do) if my book sells 1 million copies... so my readers really need to come through for me!