Admiral Steve Jensenn and his crew are back on their deep space vessel, Sanacion, laying communications satellites that will keep them connected to their friends on the planet Sana. With thirty-four thousand civilians aboard, they also are seeking a new home, a planet that will give them refuge. They've even brought along one of the natives of Sana, a Cicada named Rufus. Life is good onboard Sanacion for Steve and his little family-his wife, Lenora, and their adopted daughter, Lucy. But things are about to change. Shocking and unexpected news about Lenora's health rocks their world. And a secret Steve has been hiding on the ship is finally revealed. Then, what should have been a routine mission to replenish their stores of a much-needed substance called deuterium... ...turns into a deadly conflict with an enemy army. The ensuing battle brings about losses they never could have predicted... ...with a devastating result that could change the future of Steve's family and those aboard the ship-forever.