A Tribute at the Gates

The blood of the ancients is the most coveted ingredient in all of Damaris, for without it the Blessing of the King does not exist. This blessing, this fabled elixir grants those who drink it life that extends far beyond natural means. There is no higher honor in the kingdom then being granted the privilege of bidding for it. This exceptionally rare ingredient is sourced from only one creature. Humans.
Everyone is tested. Those with the cursed blood are stripped of their identity. By law, they are now the rightful property of the kingdom. They are now commodities. They are forced into slavery. They are tributes.
As a boy, Ryl was sold by his family when he was discovered to have the coveted blood flowing through his veins. Broken, scared and confused, he’s confined to an area known as The Stocks until he is ready to Harvest. Ryl stumbles through life until the appearance of a mysterious stranger who exposes a hidden version of the past that changes everything.
What secrets does his blood contain?
His future.
The fates of the tributes. All hang in the balance.
A change is coming. All that's needed is a catalyst.