The Terran Republic is currently engaged in total war. The revelation of the Zalu nanite superweapon, a weapon capable of subjugating entire civilizations into slavery, has caused widespread panic across the galaxy. In a desperate response, Terran Command has instructed the crew of the Calyster to reach out to a sect of radical Eranians that has been long exiled from Eranian Union space for good reason.

This particular Eranian sect espouses horrendous beliefs that were eradicated centuries ago. However, in times of war, the adversary that is feared and shunned can become an unexpected ally. Can the Calyster forge a potential partnership with this formidable Eranian faction as the Zalu continue their relentless advance toward Earth? Furthermore, does this faction pose a greater threat to the Republic than the Zalu themselves?