Captain Vyn Magee, a young pilot caught up in the woes of war as well as his pitiful lack of companionship, has his mind blown--opened to possibilities he never knew existed. Touched by a native of the world he's visiting on furlough, Vyn explores the irresistible bond to this cute young shape-shifter, and together they struggle with the predicaments this taboo relationship inflames. Yet, as invaders gain the upper hand with a mystifying and devastating weapon, Vyn and his szu-ahni lover, Sza-dre, might just be the catalyst needed to save both races from genocide.