Fending off spies and assassins while escorting a diplomatic and scientific mission to the farthest reaches of the galaxy, Admiral John Geary, faced with challenges at every turn, must make a decision that puts the fate of the fleet—and humanity—in his hands.

The Sylvan Vale and the Sylvan Wyld are at war. Now that the unsteady truce between them has been broken, lines must be drawn. In an effort to protect the weakened Winter Court, Bastien rallies powerful allies and friends in New Orleans to come to their aid. Meanwhile, under protection alongside her injured mother in the Summer Court, Celine is uncertain of whom to trust. She cannot get word to Bastien, and does not understand why he has not returned....