Pampered city boy meets Heathcliff of the desert The lost colony world of Persis created its own customs in the years without galactic contact. The Keeps developed complex methods of dealing with the harsh desert of the Great Valley and now, Keepers are cherished as caregivers and helpmeets. Emerald Keeper Teeka is no exception. Graduating at the top of his year, young Teeka is prepared to take his first Contract with Senior Hunter Brant. When Brant is killed while out on Stake, Teeka is stranded, surrounded by strangers, and is unsure of who to trust. A dark and moody Hunter steps forward with an offer of partnership and protection. Teeka wonders what motivates the scarred and solitary Senior Hunter Quill. Both have hidden motives for agreeing, and both are suspicious of each other. But the Great Valley will force them to work together and build a trust born out of necessity and survival. Between the dangers of the desert and the malice of a hidden enemy, Teeka and Quill must learn to believe in each other to find the truth. Warning: Contains explicit, adult sexual situations intended for mature readers. This is a standalone novel with no cliffhangers and an HEA ending. This is a Sci-fi Fantasy story set on another planet with different traditions and customs regarding male/male relationships - enjoy exploring it with us