Kevian Spelloyal is god-chosen, newly finishing with his Dreaming, and rapidly making a name for himself both in his area of research and as a keen, patient mind to send out and solve problems. If he's a little lonely, what of it? He can't have everything, and anyway, all of his previous relationships crashed and burned.
Taskin Dal is only in the Empire to gather information that can help his people protect themselves from the imperialistic tendencies of the Empire's ruling family. And if he falls into a few beds along the way, what of it, as long as everyone is enjoying themselves? He certainly can't afford to get attached to anyone here, since he'll be going home as soon as he gets the information he needs.
If only life worked the way you planned for it to work. Kevian and Taskin find themselves drawn to each other despite their best intentions - but can they have a future together?
Author's Note: This is a prequel, but can also be read as a standalone. You can read it first, or come back to it at any point in the series.