This work would not have been possible without the assistance of numerous fine people, among them Justin Landon, Wayne Gralian, and Darian Jones, who gave vital initial feedback; Jennifer Donovan for behind-the-scenes support; and Edwin Chapman for his experienced eye. John O’Neill and Ian Tregillis provided lengthy and crucial input through several drafts, and Bob Mecoy and Peter Wolverton patiently steered me through dangerous shoals too many times to count. An extra-special thanks goes to my muse, Shannon, who helped untie plot knots, saw the forest for the trees, found the right word or phrase when I was lost in those woods, and sometimes knew Varama better than I did myself.