Gerald ran the whetstone down his blade again and then held the sword up to examine its edge. Satisfied with the results so far, he continued with the exercise, each grind bringing him closer to the desired sharpness, until his concentration was disturbed by a knock on his door.
"Come in," he yelled, not bothering to look up.
When the door opened, a deep bark shook the room. He looked up to see Anna and Tempus, the mighty dog's tail wagging from side to side.
"Oh, hello, Anna, Tempus," he said casually.
"What are you doing, Gerald," the princess asked.
"I'm sharpening my sword," he said in annoyance. "What do you think I'm doing?" He glanced up again to see the look of shock on Anna's face.
"Sorry, I'm a little irritated," he said in explanation.
"So I see," said Anna, entering the
