It's been three months (ESC) since the attack on Exxar-One by the Haal'Chai fleet. Commodore Gabriel is still grappling with the aftermath of his torture at the hands of the renegade Chrisarii, General Serehl. It doesn't help that his ex-fiancée shows up on Exxar-One after twenty-three years with the daughter that he never knew he had. It's a time of religious upheaval in the Chrisarii Alliance. Ancient prophecy is fulfilled, and, while many view this as a cause to celebrate, for others it is a sign that compels them to act against a deadly threat. Major Saveck receives disturbing news from his father, and he reluctantly returns home to break twenty years of silence. In the wake of its failed invasion of the Federation, the Jha'Drok Emperium struggles to retain its status as a galactic power while fighting enemies both within and without. In the royal court, Vatra Inehl finds her position – as well as her son's – ever more precarious as she combats the machinations of the new lady empress and her mother. As the Federation eagerly awaits the results of a presidential election, sinister forces within the Khazar Dominion set their sights upon the vulnerable Jha'Drok Emperium. On starbase Exxar-One, old lovers are reunited, new relationships ignited, and new friendships are born. Amid the chaos and turmoil of the cold war around them, the station's crew continues their mission of providing a neutral ground for the flag of peace.

**