This is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places, and incidents are either the product of the author’s imagination or are used fictitiously, and any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, business establishments, events or locales is entirely coincidental.

The Runes of the Earth

A Putnam Book / published by arrangement with the author

All rights reserved.

Copyright © 2004 by Stephen R. Donaldson

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Electronic edition: December, 2004