In a universe so far in the future that Earth is considered a myth, Captain Rann Starr and his small crew fly through the galaxy in their starship Nova Dancer, negotiating primitive settlements and vast space stations alike, carrying freight, as well as the occasional passenger who might belong to one of a thousand alien species. Dealing with soldiers and gun-runners might be everyday business for Starr, but the breakup of his little ad-hoc family is something he won't stand for.