Following a successful coup against the tyrannical Syndicate, the leaders of the rebel Midway Star System work to forge a government free enough to please its citizens yet strong enough to secure power. But in a world where former rulers have become new foes, an alien threat to humanity may turn old adversaries into uncertain allies.<br> <br>President Gwen Iceni believes Midway is their only defense against the enigmas. Syndicate training taught her self-preservation in a crisis, yet she's determined to fight for the star system's fate ... even if it means joining forces with another former Syndicate CEO - and an officer of the hated Alliance.<br> <br>Despite General Artur Drakon's misgivings, he partnered with Iceni to overthrow Syndic forces. Now, with an enigma fleet menacing their hard-earned independence, he can ill afford to trust her - or lose her support. But in the back of his mind, there are three words that describe someone who confides in a Syndicate CEO: <i>Stupid. Betrayed. Dead.</i>
