The Nexus Odyssey
by Hylton Smith
The Nexus Odyssey is an epic journey of human exploration. Overpopulation and its attendant problems force colonisation of another planet. Having achieved this salvation, the relations between Earth and Mars become fractious, and this leads to the development of interstellar propulsion capability, a joint strategy of humans and intelligent aliens. The problems are immense, and benefits uncertain.Caedus has lived his life by the sword, and now seems destined to die by it as well. He has found himself sentenced to death for crimes against Vera'Gon and her people. The justice system of the capital city Vera'Gon is harsh, but fair. The worst criminals fight in the arena, executing each other for the entertainment of the people. The winners get to live another day, and get another chance to bring justice against their fellow combatants. But win or lose, all combatants will eventually find their life bleeding out on the sand. The system offers no redemption, only death. Can Caedus continue his life of blood and violence, or will he be executed like so many before him?