Book excerpt: After making a vow to her dearest friend on his deathbed, a brave young woman strikes out on her own to prove she can play the sport of the gods as well as any man. While biding his time until the throne is finally his, an evil prince plots the death of his father and twin brother. Rescued by a mysterious cloaked traveler, a young boy is drawn into a treacherous journey to a fabled castle where his mercenary half-brother plots treason. Forced into battle by his birthright and fueled by revenge, a grief-stricken warrior must win the favor of the immortals by playing their deadly game. The only thing standing between each warrior and glory is a battle between each other—and their own demons. Welcome to Mt. August, where the warriors strap razor-sharp blades to their feet and the ice is stained with the blood of their enemies...