2441 Terrans and Neorans struggle for power across the galaxy n a time of unrest across the galaxy, Anna Lorrondon-Helsak breaks her long alliance with her father's people, the Neorans, and makes a new one with old enemies. Her closest friend, the alien Rusorin, warns her that this course will bring disaster to both races-and to Anna's own family. Driven by a motive she alone understands, Anna holds fast and turns on her old friend. Rusorin turns for help to the Free City of Bretton Katt, a center of learning and commerce-and the Neorans' last hope for an ally in Terran space. Befriended by Anna's own son, Rob Lorrondon, she discovers a maelstrom of blackmail and murder-and a conspiracy to hand Bretton Katt over to its enemies. Can Rusorin and Rob thwart Anna's plans and prevent all-out war?