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

“You know,” Nick said softly, “maybe it’s just a new horse someone is looking to buy and wants it vetted? There’s probably a note on the door of the house or barn.”


Nodding, Todd shifted his gaze sideways to Nick for a few beats.


Setting the carriage in motion again, Todd kept watch on the road ahead while Nick twisted around, looking behind them and to the side.


Todd stopped the carriage in front of the house and handed Nick the rifle, pushed the brake into place and set the horses’ reins on the seat beside Nick. He patted Nick’s knee and climbed down then pulled out his handgun, its weight in his hand a comfort.


Soundlessly, he walked to the front door and tried the handle. It was still locked. He flicked his fingers against it. There was no note stuck to the door or tucked between it and the frame.


Chapter 70