Sunday, May 20, 2018
Sunday's Safe Word Shelf: Fighting For All(Soul Match #5) by Morticia Knight
Aliens from the planet Alashar invade Earth and in an aggressive battle, take over the world. But they’ve underestimated the power of humans. It has nothing to do with human weapons or their cunning ability to fight back. It’s the beauty of their souls that holds the true power. As each soul matched alien pair meets their destined human, the balance on Earth shifts. Amidst rebellion and unlikely alliances, a new world is born. One where the total power exchange is shared between three instead of two.
Bravery will lead you to your destiny.
The human and alien rebellion is at hand, but those who have already arrived at the secret military facility are without the one who has inspired them to stand against the Nall. Chris, the human chosen by the Alasharian spiritual leader, Sha Sha Ar, has been missing since the escape to the hideout. Those who have never seen Chris before, have only heard tales of his visions, begin to doubt his existence. Fear spreads through the group as humans and Alasharians alike wonder if they’re all doomed, that maybe Chris is a fantasy or has already fallen at the hands of the Nall.
Graham, Morgan and their Alasharian matches stand before the worried group to reassure them that Chris is real. They’ve barely begun to speak when they are forced to fight an unexpected foe. But before the final battle against the Nall and the Void begins, all must search within themselves to discover what part they will play to achieve their destiny—and to summon the bravery they’ll need to see it through.
Reader Advisory: This book contains graphic battle scene violence and medical play, as well as references to rape and torture. There is also a scene involving urethral sounds.
Morgan gasped, then exhaled on a low moan as he came for the third time that day. He barely had a drop of seed left and he was exhausted. Only this time, the drain on his energy seemed different, less all-consuming. Is the bonding almost over? Equal parts relief and sadness filled him at the realization. I shouldn’t be selfish. The danger and uncertainty that surrounded them—and the mystery over why Chris, Lasar and Nary were taking so long to arrive at the hideout—didn’t give him the right to wish that he and his Alasharian matches could stay within the joyous bubble the sealing process had demanded of their bodies.
Rama tugged Morgan close to his chest and Hallosh wrapped his body around Morgan’s back, embracing them both. They were a mess of cum and sweat, never having taken the time to clean up after their previous romp. Instead, they’d fallen asleep on the jumble of blankets and mattresses that took up most of the floor space in the private cubicle where they’d chosen to complete their soul match bonding. Morgan was sore in all the right places and in a few he wished he weren’t. The past several days had been stressful and exhausting in the underground military facility where they remained in hiding, the only respite being the pull of the soul match between him and his Alasharian mates. Their bonding had been his only comfort.
“Ahna Rama?” Morgan idly played with one of the golden beads intertwined in a thick tuft of Rama’s black hair. “What happens when the bond between us is complete?”
“We’ll care about things other than sex, food and sleep.” Rama chuckled. “I honestly never dreamed it would be like this, be so overpowering.”
Hallosh yawned as he snuggled closer. “Agreed. Although I suppose it’s not so much that we haven’t cared about anything else, just that it’s been such a challenge to do anything about it.”
Morgan’s stomach clenched whenever talk shifted to the looming battle that was ahead of them all, human and Alasharian alike. His Ahna Rama had been a celebrated warrior for many years, a Rahna to the fighters who served under him. And while his other Ahna, Hallosh, was not a warrior but an ex-advisor to the Nall, he was still strong and able to fight. All males and females of both races who had the ability to battle would be called upon. Morgan wanted his mates to do their part, but the bonding process between them had depleted their reserves. Fear for the beings he loved so much, who he’d only now begun to share a life with, never entirely left his mind.
“Easy, Nasha.” Rama pressed his lips to Morgan’s head. “We will protect you with our lives.”
Hallosh nuzzled Morgan’s neck. “Yes, love. We would never let anyone near you.”
Morgan fought back the tears that were forming. “But who will protect both of you? I want to help, want to know my Ahnas will also be safe.”
“I am strong and so is Hallosh. There will be a part for you to play, Nasha. But it won’t be in battle.”
Morgan huffed. “I know how you see me, Ahna Rama. I’ve been weak and afraid since the invasion began. My behavior when I first went to live with you was just as bad. Yet when I consider what my life would be like if something were to happen to either one of you? That is more terrifying to me than any physical harm I might face.”
Both his mates cocooned him even more. Rama spoke against his ear, his deep voice low and soothing. “I know you are brave, sweet Nasha. I believe that’s the true reason you love the dragons in your stories so much. They’re strong and majestic.” He pressed his lips to Morgan’s head before continuing, “But it’s clear you also understand how important it is to me and Hallosh that you remain safe. If we were to be in battle, while also worrying over your safety, that’s what would make us weak. If you want us to be strong, you will obey your Ahnas.”
Morgan’s heart hammered. Just the hint of danger regarding his mates terrified him. Still, he needed to trust, submit to his Ahnas the way Rama said. Chris had helped explain the concept of the balancing between them all, how their mastery over him and his submission which was freely offered would combine to make them stronger than if they were on their own. His obedience would be more powerful than any other support he could give.
Morgan sighed, determined to stay resolute. “Yes, Ahnas. I’ll obey. But if there’s anything I can do to help, even if it’s not on the battlefield, even if it’s a chore that needs to be done here in the caves, I need to do it. I’ll go crazy if all I do is sit here and wait to find out whether you’re both okay.”
They fell silent, and Morgan imagined they were all contemplating what they’d shared. As much as he wanted to only dwell on the love and comfort of his mates, one enormous worry overshadowed everything else.
Chris.
In the days since they’d first arrived at the military facility, no communication from Chris or his matches, Lasar and Nary, had been received. Their own journey to the hideout had been treacherous, with one of the Nall’s battleships attempting to shoot them down. As it was, an Alasharian ally ship had been sacrificed to protect the others. What if Chris was shot down too? He didn’t want to give voice to his fear, didn’t want to consider the possibility that his cousin and closest friend might be gone. As it was, unease had spread throughout the hideout as humans and Alasharians whispered that their spiritual leader might be dead.
Hallosh and Rama both murmured reassurances to him, his worry undoubtedly strong enough in his spirit that they’d been able to see a picture in their minds of what saddened him. Rama angled back his head as he placed a finger under Morgan’s chin, encouraging him to lift it so he could capture his gaze.
“Sweet Nasha, it is much too soon to give up hope. Sha Sha Ar wouldn’t have chosen Chris if his soul hadn’t led him to your cousin. And he has two of the finest Alasharian warriors at his side. You mustn’t worry yourself—you’ll be no good to any of us if you make yourself sick. You need to remain strong for Chris’ mother and sisters. Don’t let them see your fear.”
Morgan gave a slight nod against the pillow as he held Rama’s gaze. “I’m trying. Before we left, Chris said something about how the Void would attempt to trick us, find our weaknesses and poison our minds that way. I wonder if this is what he meant? Because whenever I get too scared or too worried, that awful sensation of blackness that filled me at the execution starts to build.”
Rama furrowed his brow, his clear blue eyes radiating concern. “Have you been attacked again?”
Hallosh let out a low growl as he clutched Morgan tighter. Morgan covered Hallosh’s hand where he gripped his waist in an attempt to reassure him.
“No, nothing like that. It’s difficult to explain. The best way I can think of describing it would be like when you hear a far-off sound, but you can’t quite tell what it is.”
Rama still appeared uncertain. “Then why do you believe it’s connected to the Void?”
“Because the dread in the pit of my stomach is still there, and that unspeakable buzzing is like that far-off noise. I know it sounds crazy, but I think whatever that thing is, it’s trying to get to me still. But it can’t, because our bond is much too strong for it to penetrate.”
At last the corners of Rama’s lips curled up and the lines in his forehead smoothed. “Then you have your answer. The love we share will keep us all safe.” Rama gave him a wink. “And once we have more time to train you and you get a proper balancing session, you’ll feel even better.”
Morgan frowned. “I enjoyed the spanking and I’m always respectful.”
“Oh, Morgan.” Rama brushed his hair back from his forehead as Hallosh chuckled then pressed his lips to Morgan’s neck. “Of course you are. You’re perfect for us, a wonderful Nasha. But the balancing helps to maintain the peace within the match.”
“Yes, Nasha.” The deep rumble of Hallosh’s voice sounded next to his ear. “We are as we should be right now. Once the rebellion has been a success, we can build our life together, have numerous balancing sessions.” Hallosh nipped at Morgan’s earlobe. “And many, many revolutions of enjoying our bond.”
Rama crushed their mouths together and Morgan let the kiss envelop him before Hallosh joined in. The urgency of their connection as three brought the soul match hum alive. For the first time since the initial kiss had sparked their bonding, he wasn’t overtaken by the hum. It remained static, embracing them, but not compelling them to succumb to their desire.
Our bond is complete. Morgan held on to Rama’s and Hallosh’s words, as well as his own. He had to believe the soul match that entwined them together would be their biggest defense against the insidious force of the Void, the light that would eradicate the dark.
Otherwise, all who had bonded and those who were allies would be damned along with him and his mates.
Rama tugged Morgan close to his chest and Hallosh wrapped his body around Morgan’s back, embracing them both. They were a mess of cum and sweat, never having taken the time to clean up after their previous romp. Instead, they’d fallen asleep on the jumble of blankets and mattresses that took up most of the floor space in the private cubicle where they’d chosen to complete their soul match bonding. Morgan was sore in all the right places and in a few he wished he weren’t. The past several days had been stressful and exhausting in the underground military facility where they remained in hiding, the only respite being the pull of the soul match between him and his Alasharian mates. Their bonding had been his only comfort.
“Ahna Rama?” Morgan idly played with one of the golden beads intertwined in a thick tuft of Rama’s black hair. “What happens when the bond between us is complete?”
“We’ll care about things other than sex, food and sleep.” Rama chuckled. “I honestly never dreamed it would be like this, be so overpowering.”
Hallosh yawned as he snuggled closer. “Agreed. Although I suppose it’s not so much that we haven’t cared about anything else, just that it’s been such a challenge to do anything about it.”
Morgan’s stomach clenched whenever talk shifted to the looming battle that was ahead of them all, human and Alasharian alike. His Ahna Rama had been a celebrated warrior for many years, a Rahna to the fighters who served under him. And while his other Ahna, Hallosh, was not a warrior but an ex-advisor to the Nall, he was still strong and able to fight. All males and females of both races who had the ability to battle would be called upon. Morgan wanted his mates to do their part, but the bonding process between them had depleted their reserves. Fear for the beings he loved so much, who he’d only now begun to share a life with, never entirely left his mind.
“Easy, Nasha.” Rama pressed his lips to Morgan’s head. “We will protect you with our lives.”
Hallosh nuzzled Morgan’s neck. “Yes, love. We would never let anyone near you.”
Morgan fought back the tears that were forming. “But who will protect both of you? I want to help, want to know my Ahnas will also be safe.”
“I am strong and so is Hallosh. There will be a part for you to play, Nasha. But it won’t be in battle.”
Morgan huffed. “I know how you see me, Ahna Rama. I’ve been weak and afraid since the invasion began. My behavior when I first went to live with you was just as bad. Yet when I consider what my life would be like if something were to happen to either one of you? That is more terrifying to me than any physical harm I might face.”
Both his mates cocooned him even more. Rama spoke against his ear, his deep voice low and soothing. “I know you are brave, sweet Nasha. I believe that’s the true reason you love the dragons in your stories so much. They’re strong and majestic.” He pressed his lips to Morgan’s head before continuing, “But it’s clear you also understand how important it is to me and Hallosh that you remain safe. If we were to be in battle, while also worrying over your safety, that’s what would make us weak. If you want us to be strong, you will obey your Ahnas.”
Morgan’s heart hammered. Just the hint of danger regarding his mates terrified him. Still, he needed to trust, submit to his Ahnas the way Rama said. Chris had helped explain the concept of the balancing between them all, how their mastery over him and his submission which was freely offered would combine to make them stronger than if they were on their own. His obedience would be more powerful than any other support he could give.
Morgan sighed, determined to stay resolute. “Yes, Ahnas. I’ll obey. But if there’s anything I can do to help, even if it’s not on the battlefield, even if it’s a chore that needs to be done here in the caves, I need to do it. I’ll go crazy if all I do is sit here and wait to find out whether you’re both okay.”
They fell silent, and Morgan imagined they were all contemplating what they’d shared. As much as he wanted to only dwell on the love and comfort of his mates, one enormous worry overshadowed everything else.
Chris.
In the days since they’d first arrived at the military facility, no communication from Chris or his matches, Lasar and Nary, had been received. Their own journey to the hideout had been treacherous, with one of the Nall’s battleships attempting to shoot them down. As it was, an Alasharian ally ship had been sacrificed to protect the others. What if Chris was shot down too? He didn’t want to give voice to his fear, didn’t want to consider the possibility that his cousin and closest friend might be gone. As it was, unease had spread throughout the hideout as humans and Alasharians whispered that their spiritual leader might be dead.
Hallosh and Rama both murmured reassurances to him, his worry undoubtedly strong enough in his spirit that they’d been able to see a picture in their minds of what saddened him. Rama angled back his head as he placed a finger under Morgan’s chin, encouraging him to lift it so he could capture his gaze.
“Sweet Nasha, it is much too soon to give up hope. Sha Sha Ar wouldn’t have chosen Chris if his soul hadn’t led him to your cousin. And he has two of the finest Alasharian warriors at his side. You mustn’t worry yourself—you’ll be no good to any of us if you make yourself sick. You need to remain strong for Chris’ mother and sisters. Don’t let them see your fear.”
Morgan gave a slight nod against the pillow as he held Rama’s gaze. “I’m trying. Before we left, Chris said something about how the Void would attempt to trick us, find our weaknesses and poison our minds that way. I wonder if this is what he meant? Because whenever I get too scared or too worried, that awful sensation of blackness that filled me at the execution starts to build.”
Rama furrowed his brow, his clear blue eyes radiating concern. “Have you been attacked again?”
Hallosh let out a low growl as he clutched Morgan tighter. Morgan covered Hallosh’s hand where he gripped his waist in an attempt to reassure him.
“No, nothing like that. It’s difficult to explain. The best way I can think of describing it would be like when you hear a far-off sound, but you can’t quite tell what it is.”
Rama still appeared uncertain. “Then why do you believe it’s connected to the Void?”
“Because the dread in the pit of my stomach is still there, and that unspeakable buzzing is like that far-off noise. I know it sounds crazy, but I think whatever that thing is, it’s trying to get to me still. But it can’t, because our bond is much too strong for it to penetrate.”
At last the corners of Rama’s lips curled up and the lines in his forehead smoothed. “Then you have your answer. The love we share will keep us all safe.” Rama gave him a wink. “And once we have more time to train you and you get a proper balancing session, you’ll feel even better.”
Morgan frowned. “I enjoyed the spanking and I’m always respectful.”
“Oh, Morgan.” Rama brushed his hair back from his forehead as Hallosh chuckled then pressed his lips to Morgan’s neck. “Of course you are. You’re perfect for us, a wonderful Nasha. But the balancing helps to maintain the peace within the match.”
“Yes, Nasha.” The deep rumble of Hallosh’s voice sounded next to his ear. “We are as we should be right now. Once the rebellion has been a success, we can build our life together, have numerous balancing sessions.” Hallosh nipped at Morgan’s earlobe. “And many, many revolutions of enjoying our bond.”
Rama crushed their mouths together and Morgan let the kiss envelop him before Hallosh joined in. The urgency of their connection as three brought the soul match hum alive. For the first time since the initial kiss had sparked their bonding, he wasn’t overtaken by the hum. It remained static, embracing them, but not compelling them to succumb to their desire.
Our bond is complete. Morgan held on to Rama’s and Hallosh’s words, as well as his own. He had to believe the soul match that entwined them together would be their biggest defense against the insidious force of the Void, the light that would eradicate the dark.
Otherwise, all who had bonded and those who were allies would be damned along with him and his mates.
Sunday's Safe Word Shelf
M/M Erotic Romance author Morticia Knight enjoys hot stories of men loving men forever after. They can be men in uniform, Doms and subs, rock stars or bikers - but they're all searching for the one (or two!) who was meant only for them.
When not indulging in her passion for books, she loves the outdoors, film and music. Once upon a time she was the singer in an indie rock band that toured the West Coast and charted on U.S. college radio. She is currently working on more installments of Sin City Uniforms and The Hampton Road Club, as well as the follow-up to Bryan and Aubrey's story from Rockin' the Alternative.
B&N / DREAMSPINNER / KOBO
EMAIL: MorticiaKnight@gmail.com
Fighting for All #5
Series
Release Blitz: Face the Music by KM Neuhold
Title: Face the Music
Author: KM Neuhold
Series: Replay #1
Genre: M/M Romance
Release Date: May 20, 2018
Summary:Lincoln
I thought there was only one thing I needed to make me happy. I was so sure becoming a rock star would heal the dark corners inside me. But every time I walk onto the stage, with a roaring crowd screaming my name, all I can think about is the boy I left behind. All I want to do is rewind and make a different choice.
Jace
I thought I hated Lincoln when he ghosted me ten years ago and destroyed my heart. I thought I hated him when he wrote a chart-topping hit about our idyllic young love. But I’ve never hated him as much as I do right now, standing in front of me like he has every right to be in my world again. He’s not the rock god I thought he was...he’s still that same lost boy I used to love. Can I ever trust him with my heart again?
***Face the Music is the first book in the Replay series. Each book in the series will focus on a different band member getting a second chance at love. Each book can be read as a stand-alone. This book contains descriptions of self-harm, suicidal thoughts, and sexy times.
The icy wind bites at my skin, but another swig of whiskey helps to chase the chill away. The air smells like snow. I do a mental calculation and realize it’s only two weeks until Christmas.
When I was a kid, I loved Christmas. This time of year felt so magical and joyful. The smell of cookies baking in the oven, the twinkling lights of the tree, making a wish list of presents you hope Santa will bring.
Another gulp from the bottle clenched in my numb fist. It stopped burning on the way down about a half hour ago, right around the time the far-off city lights started to blur.
There’s no magic now. My kitchen is empty of anyone baking any sort of treats. I can’t remember the last time I bothered to get a tree. They’re not much fun to decorate all on your own. Plus, what’s the point if no one else will be there to enjoy it with you? As for a wish list...there’s only one thing I’d put on that list and it’s something—someone—I had and tossed away too many years ago.
My legs are unsteady under me as I walk to the edge of my balcony to look down at the street below.
Certainly the fall would kill me. But who would care?
I can see the headline now…Rock star Jumps to Death from New York City Apartment.
But would they really care?
My bandmates might’ve cared a few years ago, before everything started falling apart, before we were at each other’s throats constantly.
If only I’d known the name of our band—Downward Spiral— would be so apt when we chose it. Maybe it was a bad omen, or a jinx. Maybe we were just cocky little pricks who were on top of the world and didn’t think anything could ever knock us off.
I wobble as I lean farther over the railing, testing the sturdiness.
I won’t really jump. That’s what I tell myself. That’s what I always tell myself when I get into these dark moods.
I try to lift the bottle to my lips again, but it slips through my fingers. I watch as it plummets downward and then shatters on the sidewalk below.
I teeter again against the railing before taking a step back and reaching into my pocket for a cigarette. I don’t even normally smoke, just when I’m drunk and sad.
I can only imagine what Jace would say if he could see me now.
When I was a kid, I loved Christmas. This time of year felt so magical and joyful. The smell of cookies baking in the oven, the twinkling lights of the tree, making a wish list of presents you hope Santa will bring.
Another gulp from the bottle clenched in my numb fist. It stopped burning on the way down about a half hour ago, right around the time the far-off city lights started to blur.
There’s no magic now. My kitchen is empty of anyone baking any sort of treats. I can’t remember the last time I bothered to get a tree. They’re not much fun to decorate all on your own. Plus, what’s the point if no one else will be there to enjoy it with you? As for a wish list...there’s only one thing I’d put on that list and it’s something—someone—I had and tossed away too many years ago.
My legs are unsteady under me as I walk to the edge of my balcony to look down at the street below.Certainly the fall would kill me. But who would care?
I can see the headline now…Rock star Jumps to Death from New York City Apartment.
But would they really care?
My bandmates might’ve cared a few years ago, before everything started falling apart, before we were at each other’s throats constantly.
If only I’d known the name of our band—Downward Spiral— would be so apt when we chose it. Maybe it was a bad omen, or a jinx. Maybe we were just cocky little pricks who were on top of the world and didn’t think anything could ever knock us off.
I wobble as I lean farther over the railing, testing the sturdiness.
I won’t really jump. That’s what I tell myself. That’s what I always tell myself when I get into these dark moods.I try to lift the bottle to my lips again, but it slips through my fingers. I watch as it plummets downward and then shatters on the sidewalk below.
I teeter again against the railing before taking a step back and reaching into my pocket for a cigarette. I don’t even normally smoke, just when I’m drunk and sad.
I can only imagine what Jace would say if he could see me now.
I'm an author of m/m and new adult romance. I have a strong passion for writing characters with a lot of heart and soul, and a bit of humor as well.
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