The opening battle for Krevo is ending. The much bigger war for Orion is about to begin. Pyotr Shaka's plans go far beyond conquering a few small neutrals. Policy in the Calmar Union is also hardening. War is coming between two of the great star powers of Orion. What will the third do? Who knows what Jahandar really wants? He stands before an immense star map brooding on war. He's been traveling toward this hour all his long, twisted life. He yearns...