Losing the one man he loved convinced Piras he would never have a chance at happiness. He is too different from the other members of the Dramok breed to attract a Nobek warrior and Imdiko nurturer to his clan. Unwilling to pretend to be someone he is not, he faces a lonely future. Nobek destroyer captain Kila's one night with Piras was a shocking revelation. Yet he can't stop thinking of the temperamental Dramok admiral he has grown to respect. A dangerous mission in the midst of Kalquor's civil war throws them together once more, and Kila must decide if Piras's needs are an obstacle...or an incredible gift. Meanwhile, he has the added headache of an obstinate Imdiko chief engineer undermining his orders at every turn. Lokmi's dual breed designation of Imdiko and Dramok has caused him problems in work and personal relationships. While he coddles his ship's engines, his need to control puts him at odds with commanding Dramoks and fierce Nobeks. Dealing with hothead Admiral Piras and overbearing Captain Kila is everything Lokmi hates...until he discovers his unique qualities fit their needs. Could it be that he isn't fated to walk through life alone? Three outsiders fight to save themselves, each other, and the Kalquorian Empire. Contains BDSM situations