The Champion's Test — M. Francis Lamont

Just when he thought he had overcome every challenge the Romans decided to test their Champion once again.Cassian had withstood the trials of the house of Census to be at Violetta’s side.He had gone steel to steel with Vitus, son of Census, to protect her.He had begged Felix to let him marry her, to keep her safe as his wife.The merchant refused but the lanista bargained to have her brought to the ludus instead.It was not a victory, but it bought him time to plan.Violetta had never thought that she would escape the horror of the house of Census, at least not alive.When Cassian’s lanista brought her to the ludus she had expected to serve his wife in the villa, but it was the infirmary that she was stationed in. She was to be instructed by the mysterious druid Arturo in the ways of medicine. It was a whole new world for her, with new friends, new confidence, and the safety of her lover nearby.Until the lanista’s wife revealed her own plan of desperate treachery and betrayal that would test the bonds of not only Cassian and Violetta’s relationship but of another burgeoning romance as well.If the ludus being filled with secrets was not enough to test Cassian’s determination, Vitus Census’ visit to the ludus became a deadly test of skill, loyalty, and friendship.Who will pass the test and who will fail utterly?