The various races of the galaxy have come together to form the new Interplanetary Interspecies Treaty Organization (IITO). With its formation, they have satisfied what the extra-galactic Xorcerizts required. Now, the Xorcerizts will provide not just defenses, but weapons sufficient to fight the incursion of the Ditufgne. Because if the Ditufgne aren't stopped soon, they never will be. The crews of the and have been drawn deeper into the conflict - while Jeck, Ashira, and Shi'tra balance their needs and the greater good. Hectir, Alvon, and Avra Pii K'tark'ah race to assemble the most massive force ever known for one closing gambit. Through critical positions, strategic crushes, and antipositional moves - the denizens of the galaxy have been set for one incredible match. Who will declare checkmate and emerge victorious?