Scholarship college student Thracius ‘Tracy’ Belmanor and Princess Mercedes de Arango possess graduated in the High Ground and become officials in the Orden de la Estrella. Stung by Mercedes’ selection of Beauregard “Boho” Cullen as her consort, Tracy is normally glad they are submitted on battleships light years aside, but soon discovers that without her protection he is nothing but a target. In the meantime, Mercedes’ posting has its own difficulties, not least her unfaithful spouse.

Both young officers find themselves part of forced ‘assimilations’ of settlers on Hidden Worlds, which cause them to doubt the intentions of the Solar League. So when Tracy witnesses a horrific event that threatens the delicate human being and alien peace, Mercedes must decide where her loyalties truly lie .