The longest of the 'Dickduels' series of stories so far, the story line gives me an opportunity to explore male - male relationships and interactions, in an environment where violence, coercion, hierarchy, honour and loyalty are cheek by jowl with tenderness, sensuality, erotica, jealousy, and desire.

In the world of all male environments, men, debate with men the nature of man hood and masculine behaviour. The contradictions that are apparent in the characters rationale and behaviour are the same paradoxes that prevail to this day in human society. The juxtaposition in the story of male-male sexual behaviour Vis a Vis anal emasculation and man2man cock2cock, is especially relevant to modern gay male culture.

The historic context of the story is important in that it allows us to avoid a rush to judgement of the characters and their actions. Unable to frame their behaviour using contemporary stereotypes ... the context of the story far removed from modern times ... readers are free to identify with the characters as men. And ask as the tale unfolds ... 'what kind of a man is he?'

Their capacity for violence and love ... desire and denial ... their powerful concepts of loyalty and the bond of friendship, make for engaging characters and lively scenarios.

I will be releasing the story over time.