Selati, a big construct forced to work in the cobalt mines of Ilmare, is terrified of the overseers. Danger dogs his every breath, somehow the leader of his ragged work crew, and he finally has enough when the mine itself almost kills him. Humans or no humans, he refuses to let his crew die down in the dark. As his crew takes their stand in their bid for freedom, rescue comes. Freedom in the light and a whole new life awaits.<br><br>It’s a duty Aleledai takes great pride in, saving his fellow Caniean. Humans might have created them to mine and nothing more, but like all things, the Caniean are not the mindless beasts humans intended to work to death for resources. Selati’s rescue is probably his greatest accomplishment, because something about this one becomes everything Aleledai was missing, that made freedom perfect.<br><br>Humans don’t let go of their things easily, though and war is coming, no matter what the Caniean want. The price of freedom is always high. Aleledai only hopes the price isn’t everything he’s found worth living for.

A Soldier's Horizon

Selati inched his way out of the crowd, dancers in a rowdy, gripping swing in a circle. Wooden cups were clutched close to his chest. The grin on his gentle face told Aleledai how much his All enjoyed the party and the willingness to hand over one of the drinks was effortless, carefree. “The camp in having a lot of fun,” Selati shouted over the loud drumming music.


“We take our fun when we can.” Aleledai accepted his drink with a nod of thanks, the noise nigh impossible to overcome.


“I see that.” Selati sidled up to his side and slipped an arm around Aleledai’s waist. He seemed happy to watch the party, instead of participating.


Aleledai was fine with their spot on the edge of the camp center. He really wanted to coax Selati away, begin their private enjoyment, but he also wanted his All to get the full experience of a marriage party, since his crew mates chose to keep their celebration to the two of them.


Chapter 29