Merrick, the exiled male heir of the Stran family, is summoned back to take the place of his brother, who ran away to escape an arranged marriage.
From then on, his female consort is the high-born prince Fabian Elodie.
His status rises by leaps and bounds. More and more insects seek his acquaintance and curry favor with him, and in time they dig up the story of how the noble Corlentan Theo once toyed with him.
Fabian is mocked because of him, and their already strained relationship grows even more rigid.
Meanwhile, his runaway older brother is found. The star pirates who have taken him hostage demand an enormous ransom, weapons, and access to a spaceport.
After several rounds of talks, neither side can reach an agreement.
Then an accident puts Merrick on camera during a holographic negotiation.
Amoris: I've changed my mind. I want him. A male insect for a male insect. Fair enough, right?
Fabian: I refuse! He's my male insect!
Corlentan: I refuse too! Take the older brother if you want, but don't come for the younger one!
Merrick: Oh, anywhere's fine with me.
Hillary: Can someone speak up for me...
Easygoing, sincere noble top x wild, domineering star pirate bottom
Theme: Face life's changes with composure
