Vayen's hold on his deadly Arpex abilities is slipping. If he loses control, he'll be executed and his mission of unification and peace will die with him. Desperate to help Vayen maintain his precarious balance, Anastassia is willing to offer him a week with another woman as a diversion from his dark urges. Can she live with her decision if he wants more? In the public spotlight by association, Daniel unwittingly ignites a political uprising when, in the spirit of love and unity, he adopts the Jalvian practice of taking a second wife. While he works with Neko to guide the debate within the Narvan, he must also work alongside his volatile, tyrannical father as they race the rumors to seek out amiable worlds for their advisory union. Daniel struggles to take on the brunt of his parent's mission while facing his own darkness. Spending a guilt-free week with Vayen is a dream come true for Buria. She's had her eye on him for years. Securing a place within his inner circle could mean a serious job upgrade and notoriety. Managing Vayen's addictions and temper will require every skill beaten into her as a slave if she is to stand a chance at coming out on top. Is the Ta'set family, the Narvan, and the newly-formed advisory union prepared for a future where Vayen takes the one life that will send him over the edge?