War awaits on Ilmare, between the humans and the constructs they created. Considered flawed designs by their creators, Selati and his other sentient comrades live the life of refugees on the run, hiding and fighting in Ilmare’s vast jungles. They want only the freedom to pursue their newly awakened sentience away from human interference.<br><br>Aleledai taught Selati all he knows of a life without chains and suffering. Neither can know what tomorrow will bring, rather all too well what it could take from them both. On the cusp of war, Selati returns to his lover to spend one last night in the peaceful world that only exists in Aleledai’s arms.

Slither

He chuckled to himself. Aleledai was a stubborn and feisty being, brightening his soul with every smile, every argument, and every touch. Until his mate had come into his life, Selati had lived a cold, joyless existence as a mine worker.


Life had started for him as it had for so many of his fellow Caniean, coming online in a sterile, empty room after being programmed for whatever job needed to be done. Selati had been chosen to work the mines due to his natural strength and muscular physique. Such physicality was needed to break apart the stones which held the human’s precious cobalt.


Chapter 2