It seemed so simple, cross a train yard, hop a train and Todd and Nick would be free, on their way home to Elk's Ridge in Yellowknife. Nothing is ever simple or easy for the Ruger men, however. Captured by Vice-Chancellor Raleigh, Todd is imprisoned, leaving Nick alone and seeking a way to free his mate. Help comes from an unlikely and unexpected ally. Todd's freedom places the Rugers yet again into the Chancellor's debt. He sends them on a fact finding mission to the small village of Eldrid, the same village where Nick was raised a slave.<br><br>There they discover how past events led to their present society, the origins of sentries and slaves and what made some of them so special. They also uncover a conspiracy spear-headed by Vice-Chancellor Raleigh. An attempt at stopping him isn't as successful as they'd hoped when old enemies are confronted. The realities of war, and why some people don't survive, are hard lessons for both Todd and Nick to learn.<br><br>Through firefights, explosions and a vicious attack from a seemingly unbeatable supernatural being, one thing is reinforced over and over-the most important thing each one has is each other. Will they survive or join an ever-growing list of casualties?

Collared Souls

They had given up the train car where most of the wounded were staying for the one transporting the horses. There they could talk in private as well as care for the horses and keep guard. The last car would be the first place anyone attacking the train would try to access, and none of them wanted to chance another attack.


“I’ll be right back.” Todd carried their dishes to the dining car. It was the only one left in its original condition, other than the livestock car. On the way through, he checked with the doctor to be sure she didn’t need Nick’s help with anyone.


“I’ll be happy when we’re back in New Colorado City and can get these people into a proper hospital,” Carol said. “At least two smaller civilian ones and an army medic center are still functional. Thankfully, none of these people are critical.”


Chapter 49