As Elaan learns about who she is and what her species can do, the galactic government pressures her for more information on the ancient enemy. Somewhere beyond the Four Rings lies the territory of the Surentur. Hunter and Trash want to investigate, but they have to find it first. To protect the Iguacans, they need a better understanding of the current political situation in that sector. Hunter's past endangers them all when a woman he's never met makes revelations about his origins. Old ghosts rise up to distract him at a time when he most needs to focus. In the chaos of the brand new Iguacan embassy, Elaan must decide which secrets are too dangerous to share, even with her trusted advisors. Her people have abilities far beyond what they are willing to show to the galaxy.