After the death of Vourniass Lycern, child-bearer to the Seriattic Royal Household, her twin sons have grown up separately and in ignorance of their relationship. As a result, both believe they are rightful heir to the position of Monosiell - head of Seriatt's Royal Household. When the existing Monosiell dies suddenly, the race is on to claim the position...

Vourniass Lycern - a conosq of the three-sex Seriattic race - holds the key to peace between Earth and Seriatt, and thus the continuation of the lucrative illegal arms trade conducted by General William Myson. When Lycern decamps to the Affinity Group, Myson orders experienced Military Intelligence Officer Alexander Delgado to fetch her. Delgado, however, sees the mission as an opportunity to engender a much greater level of change......