First, my deepest gratitude to Lord and Lady Adams, and to Lady Christabel, for the use of their carriages in traveling the countryside to track down elements of this tale. They have been the most faithful journeying companions any storyteller could wish, for some ten years or more. One would particularly like to thank Lord Adams for his titular contribution.

This storyteller offers her thanks as well to Countesses Tara and Sarah, and the good folks of the Harpers’ Guild for access to their archives, which contained many useful texts relating to dragons and their ilk. One could not be certain of getting this story right without their excellent assistance and faith.

In relation to the incident that took place during research in Lower Flushmire, which was entirely a misunderstanding, the aid of Baroness Liz and her team of diplomats from the Far Shore is deeply appreciated in avoiding a distinctly unpleasant evening in the stocks.

Marchioness Anna of Allunwin Castle and her kinsfolk are due thanks for the loan of particular items of clothing at a time of great need. As Lady Isobelle would be the first to say, the right dress is the key to any important endeavor.

This storyteller must also thank the mysterious Kristen of Pettitshire, of whom little is known, except that she wears a fascinating pin in her lapel, fashioned into the shape of an owl. One day, reader, perhaps you will find out what it signifies, but we have many leagues of story to cover first.

The researchers who have assisted this storyteller and her agents in hunting down specific references are too many to count, but Marquise Catherine is due particular thanks for secret information translated from French on more than one occasion. On this, I can say no more.

One also wishes to thank the many fine purveyors of books in shoppes and libraries for their unfailing support, most especially in the face of the dark magic that would silence them. They are witches all, of the most extraordinary power.

Many and varied scholars—including you, dear reader—have acted as patrons, and provided generous introductions or recommendations to others of their acquaintance. For this, one is eternally in your debt. Without the listener, the storyteller is nothing.

For magic both natural and alchemical, this humble storyteller owes a great debt of gratitude to certain covens in Asheville and Melbourne, as well as outlying agents, whose locations must not be disclosed for the sake of their safety. In particular, one wishes to thank the many brave and compassionate souls who live in or traveled to the misty blue mountains of North Carolina to aid this storyteller, and so many others, in recovering from a most devastating storm of unprecedented destruction.