The Marpasians have been expanding their empire for generations, star system by star system. Their leaders are power hungry and relentless in their quest to dominate the universe. The government raises the young with this primary aim, and makes sure no emotional connection is made, even between parent and child.


Observers have discovered a lush planet orbiting an unremarkable yellow dwarf. If the planet is civilized and deemed worthy of their time and interest, Marpasia will invade.

The High Command secretly installs three advance agents to gauge the inhabitants' vulnerabilities and report back. But the agents find themselves strangely affected by the strong emotions they encounter. And the one they find impossible to ignore is love.