On the war-torn planet of Vort, Lard Nar, a kind and patient scientist, finds his life upended when he is tasked with caring for a misbehaving young Irken smeet named Zim. Once handed over by the previous Tallests for his chaotic behavior, Zim is placed under Lard Nar's watchful eye, who treats him like the son he never had.
Amid the trials of parenting a rebellious smeet and navigating his duties under the strict Vortian manager, Lor-Ana, Lard Nar finds solace in quiet moments of compassion. Yet, his routine is disrupted when he meets the imposing and cold Tallest Red at a 600-year anniversary ceremony. Their accidental encounter sparks something unexpected, and over time, they form a tentative bond despite their contrasting personalities-Lard Nar's gentle nature and Red's insatiable hunger for power.
In a world of diplomacy, research, and rising tensions, Lard Nar must balance his duties as a father figure to Zim with his evolving relationship with the Tallest. As the empire looms ever closer, the quiet scientist may be the one to change the course of their future, even if only from the shadows.
In this book, you'll get a behind the scenes look at how your favorite characters were born, my creative process, and the dirty details never before revealed.
Tex's Camp Q&A: Come sit by the fire and ask me whatever you'd like. We can roast marshmallows, tell scary stories, and hang out in the comments like a big, happy family.
Gator's Backstage Pass: A place full of secrets. Learn the-sometimes embarrassing-details on how my wildest scenes came to life, facts about the characters, the process, and myself.