As with any work of this size and scope, there are many people besides the author who made it happen. I would like to thank the following people: the staff of Pyr Books and Prometheus Books for all their hard work; Lou Anders, who continues to make dreams come true; Eddie Schneider for his friendship and his faith in me; Jeff, Fred, Channon, and Justin for their expertise; my family for their never-ending support; and all my readers, who inspire me on a daily basis. I am truly not worthy. Up the Irons!