Published September 20th, 2025

Rykol is a dangerous place for humans, with its endless wars and an ocean that can destroy almost anything on contact. But somebody had to return, to stop the alien vekorna from kidnapping more humans. Ret only joined the expedition because he mistrusted Aderen's mind control powers, wanting to keep them in check. However, he is captured by kolbs before even stepping foot on the planet.

Kolbs, who were thought to be extinct, now control the moons and space around Rykol. They see an opportunity when this human falls into their hands.

Brought to the Black Moon and connected to the telepathic effects of the stellar fragment, Ret finds he is not immune to the temptation of mind control for the purpose of escape, so he can return to the woman he loves.

See the wiki entry for this novella, inclulding a complete list of characters, at World Anvil!