ONLY THE FIRST 9 CHAPTERS ARE AVAILABLE. ***** An enslaved champion in the bloodsport of battleboxing, Imalroc has fought for years to try and regain his freedom. But when his fighting contract passes into the hands of Rerdas Toriem, a disgraced noble guarding a dangerous secret, Imalroc finds himself grappling with feelings that both bewilder and upset him. The two men couldn't be more different, but to avoid a political noose, an enemy empire, and a mysterious disease that threatens to upturn everything they know, they must find a way to overcome their conflicting alliances in the hope of securing freedom, safety, and a chance at something more than friendship. [[word count: 200,000-250,000 words]]

It's late and dark outside. It's been a long night of fun, but it's time to go to bed now. Don't bother looking out the window. It's hidden in all black shadows. Did you see it though? Out in the field? The shine of steel? The straining muscle? Get back in bed. He'll be coming soon.