Peter Gabell is used to unwanted attention. Since his childhood he has been held up as a symbol of what the benevolent governments of Earth can do for humanity. Now, Peter is expected to take that message into space. As the outer planets declare secession, Earth must send its first military force to ensure the flow of resources from the interplanetary mining colonies doesn't slow. Young, inexperienced and disliked by his peers, can he find a way to become part of a team as he steps out on a six-year mission to restore order to the Solar System?

The Solar System is in civil war. The crew of the Retribution, sent to forcibly re-establish order among the outer planets, is captured and learning the tales of those who turned traitors to Earth. The story of Peter Gabell continues as he and his crew reach Jupiter and take their first command on Europa. As Pluto Cohort attempts to control and defend the colony they find their presence unlooked for and unwanted. How can they defend their post against attack when they face the threat of rebellion from within?