Book three in the Steven Gordon series takes us in to the heart of the Modloch Empire. Humanity quickly becomes ensnared by galactic politics. The people of Earth have to choose a single representative and the President of the United States is elected. He leaves his office and rushes to the aid of the fleet, now trapped within the Modloch Emperor's web. He picks up the UK King and his new wife on route, and together they begin a campaign to win the heart and minds of the Modloch Emperor and his people. Humanity is at last coming of age, but its enemies have not forgotten the devastating losses inflicted against them. Steven, Komoru and their crews find themselves drawn into the middle of the unfolding drama. At the twelfth hour, they are all that stands between humanity and extinction.