The second book in the epic saga of humankinds war of transcendence In the evolution of every sentient race there is a turning point when the species achieves transcendence through technology. The warlike Shdaar are determined that this monumental milestone will never be achieved by the creatures known as human. On the far side of known human space the Marines are under siege battling the relentless servant races of the Shdaar aggressor. With a task force stripped to the bone & the Terran Confederation of States racked by dissent rogue Admiral Alexander Koenig must make the momentous decision that will seal his fate & the fate of humankind. A strong defensive posture is futile so Koenig will seize the initiative & turn the gargantuan Star Carrier America toward the unknown. For the element of surprise is the only hope of stalling the Shdaar assault on Earths solar system-and the war for humankinds survival must be taken directly to the enemy.