An Inkfort Press 2023 Publishing Derby Competitor (Novelette Length) To be victorious is to be remembered, to fall in battle is to be forgotten. Ivo Novak has entered the pivotal year in a knight's life. First is The Pairing, a battle where upcoming warriors leave betrothed to a mate or the pursuit of glory. More than a bonding ceremony, Ivo knows every move is inspected by the High Knights, who will offer their brand to those most likely to find victory. All alliances are forged in blood oaths, you bleed as one. When it comes time to fight for those that summon his people, Ivo learns who the true victory is for and what becomes of promises when blood seeps into the battlefield.