After years as a mercenary, Garrak found the peaceful life he had longed for. But the King of Baratha isn't kind to orcs, and most don't survive his wrath. In a blink, Garrak's clan was annihilated, his brother killed, and his freedom taken. Now, with blood on his claws and revenge in his veins, he's determined to raise an army to kill the one who took everything, King Amon. Only one problem. The map that leads to his escape is in a language he can't understand. Even worse, the one who can is a boastful bard who insists he takes her along. Ridley is prideful, takes nothing seriously, and her recklessness knows no bounds. But her bubbly joy is contagious and her beautiful song is enchanting. Surely, that's the work of the tincture Amon had forced down his throat. One that makes his mating frenzy rise and claim a mate. But Amon has taken too much already. Garrak won't let him take his choice as well.

Ridley knows how dangerous Baratha is for an Ignis. Even though her fire magic has atrophied, the terror of The Sanctuary is always close at hand. Now, stranded in the very country that wants her controlled, an orc arrives with a map that only she can read, bringing her a chance to flee. Garrak is sullen, grumpy, and when he does speak, it's nothing nice. But he's also strong and ruthless. The perfect travel companion. So, what if he wants nothing to do with her? So, what if he grumbles endlessly? Under that tough, green skin lies a grieving orc that has been hurt too many times. She craves to coax his secret smiles and gentle touch. But how would he react when he discovers that she's the very creature that burned his clan to ashes? And her deeper secret could break them both.

CONTENT WARNINGS: Violence, depictions of abuse, implied torture (none on page), depictions of "othering".