Owen Deathstalker became a hero after the great rebellion against the tyranny of Lionstone XIV. But he and his companions have no chance to enjoy their victory before they are launched into conflict again--this time among factions quarreling over who woll replace the deposed Empress.

Owen and Hazed d'Ark attempt to escape the ensuing chaos---only to discover that Humanity has problems more pressing than political squabbles. They learn that the war is far from over---the real fighting has just begun...