The Solar Independence War is over. Humanity is finally free to follow its own destiny...at least that’s the theory. Retired war hero Mallory MacLain is looking forward to a successful career exploring hyperspace and the scientific mysteries of the universe, but when a cult of personality rises up in the nascent League, peace begins to seem like a short-lived dream. With her research stolen and her most trusted friends turned against her, Mallory is forced to make a devil’s bargain to protect the human race from a black flagged admiral who demands his own worship as a god. Unfortunately, he may also be one.