The Kingless Crown

Dedication

For Melannie, Holly, and Madeleine

My lights in dark places, when all others have gone out.

For Pam

Since the very beginning.

For Becket

For the right words when they were most needed.

For Gladys

You embraced my strange vision and helped me blaze new trails.

For Queen Melian (Mellie Smells), King Aragorn (Guvvy Bear), and Millicent Boleyn (Missy Sis)

My sweet pugs who are at least partly responsible for the end result.

And for James

My constant.