In a distant time and galaxy, far from any known planet or star.... It is an era of dominance for the Elof Empire. Many planets have come under its sovereignty, including Hupoge, where it has enslaved the people as a tragic example should any choose to resist the Empire's control. On the remote planet of Quarros, Kyd Lumin-betrayer of the Empire and beacon of hope for the Hupogeans-has taken refuge. Though he has carved out a satisfying life for himself, has a wife he loves and a daughter he adores, every day of his existence he lives in fear that the Empire will one day find him and bring an end to all he cherishes. Meanwhile, Mairel Elof-heiress to the Empress's throne-is pursuing the Empire's betrayer and has discovered his whereabouts. She will capture, kill and conquer anything that stands in her way to carry out that mission successfully. But a revolt is coming. With a ramshackle plan in motion, the Hupogeans call on Kyd Lumin to help them gain freedom from the Empire. Now, he must decide if he will risk his family's safety to save his people....