Prime: A Novella. Ziva Payvan, #0

Twenty-two years before the fall of Dakiti, a great conflict rages on the edge of populated space. Known throughout local systems as the Fringe War, the fight pits the superhuman natives of Haphez against the sly, semi-amphibious Sardons and their allies. The Sardons' goal? Gain control of a powerful Haphezian healing agent called caura.by force, if necessary. As Sardon tactics grow bolder and more desperate, cooperation between Haphezian military forces and domestic law enforcement becomes crucial.
When two scientists affiliated with the Haphezian Special Police are captured by enemy forces, the agency knows it must take initiative. The scientists are heavily involved in the development of caura treatment, and the knowledge they possess must not be allowed to fall into Sardon hands. Determined to get its people back safely, HSP sends a lone agent to join a special marine task force on a harrowing mission to retrieve the scientists and neutralize the Sardon threat. That agent's name is Emeri Arion. Prime is a prequel to Dakiti: Ziva Payvan Book 1 and can be enjoyed independently.