from the back of the book In 2244 most of the over 100 colonies of mankind are members in the united states of the TSU. Seven years ago the most terrible war that ever raged came to an end, and in remote corners of the galaxy government troops and and scattered rebel groups are still fighting. The Core Worlds - located near Earth and dominated by the omnipotence of the Mega Group PTI - and the Rim Worlds, which are under the care of the Navy and whose population is regarded as superstitious, reactionary and close-lipped, stalk each other. In this tense atmosphere rumors about contacts with alien races are heard. Rumors, that are denied by the government violently. The AllCatholic Church draws the Rim Worlds more and more in their sphere of influence. Dissatisfied colonies try to exploit the chaotic conditions and leave the Union. Unscrupulous syndicates pull their strings in the background and exert influence at the highest government circles. The fragile peace is about to collapse.