Flip and Sorsha barely have time to recover from the Kultarin conflict before the galaxy demands more from them. A would-be ally requests their aid over a brewing galactic crisis, and if they cannot stabilize the situation, they may lose valuable resources. Behind the banter of narcissistic scientists and dangerous enemies lies a new technology capable of changing interstellar travel. Or destroying the universe.

Meanwhile, Torma and Frada find themselves drawn into a new set of dangers. When an unidentified shuttle limps toward the hidden Collector base, they rush to the rescue…only to discover a fanatical pursuer right behind it. Helping the helpless is instinct, but crossing these zealots may ignite a vendetta capable of unraveling everything they’ve tried to build.