TO VICTOR MILAN, fellow author and the architect of Malvina Hazen’s rise to power. I only met Vic once, but his passing leaves a hole in our ranks. He created awesome characters and neat units. His ’Mech stomped the ground, and it quaked every time he produced a new book. Seyla, Vic! May the warriors of Valhalla tremble as you walk their halls.

I have built my words on the shoulder of a giant. I only hope I did him honor in moving the Jade Falcon storyline forward.

TO PHILIP A. LEE, who originally plotted this battle out for the Shattered Fortress sourcebook. Phil put up a lot with my shenanigans on our weekly creative calls.

TO RAY ARRASTIA, who kept me honest with his sage advice.

AND TO BRENT EVANS, who convinced me I could take this idea and make it cool. I hope I didn’t let him or the readers down. I’ve never tackled the Jade Falcons before, but it was much more fun than I ever imagined. Brent, buddy, the foundation has been laid…