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

Aleledai knew all of this, but Selati recognized that his mate needed to vent his very real fears concerning their chances of success.


Selati did the only thing he could think of, the only thing that might possibly ease Aleledai’s mind, if simply for the moment. He pulled Aleledai into his arms again, tucking his mate as close as he was able. “I know your fears, my one, and I share them.” The puff of ragged breath against his collar bone told Selati that he was right. “But if it will help, say them.”


Wiry arms slipped around his waist, clutching tightly. Aleledai’s voice, when the words finally started to tumble from his mouth, was more subdued than usual. “I do not want to lose you tomorrow. With all the ways this battle could go wrong, it is a very real possibility that I may.”


Chapter 4