When Spaceship Lyra takes its trained troops back to Planet Purlieu for a celebration and fresh troops, it picks up three visitors. Each visitor has a goal, but only one may benefit Planet Arcane.
Donte has his own problems when Rianne, who stayed on Arcane, becomes ill and may lose the twins she is carrying. As if that isn't enough, the peace on Arcane is fractured by escaped dinosaurs and a hostile presence that no one suspected.
When Donte and his family become targets, something must be done before lives are lost. Donte's reaction leaves him contemplating morality. Is it possible that he is no better than the people he is fighting?
Hesitation may be his undoing. Who will command the Lyra, if not Donte?