The Confederacy of Aligned Systems has been deeply wounded. Wracked by unceasing warfare and beset by enemies without number, they have still done their best to defend their allies and member states. But a new challenge has arrived. With humanity on the edge of reemergence, can the Confederacy hold out long enough for the Terrans to arrive in time to help? (This story takes place after First Contact/Behold Humanity and Dark Ages. It is STRONGLY recommended that a prospective reader read both installments)