Pharaoh Farrow, private investigator in a distant future, wants to leave the dismal little planet where his old ship, the Hilda, has suffered through expensive repairs. Very expensive repairs. His pockets are empty and he'd like to get a few supplies before he goes. It's the only reason he agrees to meet the nervous little man who has a job for him.

Unfortunately, before the morning is over, the man who hires him drops dead at his feet, smugglers shoot at him, a beautiful woman demands his help, and he learns this insignificant world on the far edge of the galaxy has attracted the attention of someone more deadly than any pirate. The rest of his day isn't much better.