When Gal Veres is almost assassinated and his identity as the secret Umber heir is uncovered, it sets off a dangerous battle for power that could crumble the galaxy. In a desperate attempt to claim his throne and put an end to the fighting, Gal teams up with his best friend, Ettian Nassun, and a street savvy troublemaker, Wen Iffan. During their mad dash through the stars, Gal and Ettian are drawn together, finally admitting to their years-long attraction. But their relationship is put to the test when they encounter the Archon rebellion Ettian s supposedly defeated and destroyed people and Gal is captured. Now a political hostage in a newly-reignited war, Gal must choose between the man he loves and the empire he s sworn to lead.