The USS Cardinal leaves the sun-bleached resorts of Janoor III behind as the vessel moves coreward along the Breen border. It has been almost two years since the border was last scrubbed in detail. Along with ship movements, Captain Raku and his crew will search for signs of new construction and development within colonies along the border between Breen and Federation space.

Each crewmember looks to balance routine and duty with relaxation. Shore leave has only dampened each person’s thirst for entertainment. Much of duty seems uneventful, yet they must remain vigilant.  Relationships developed over the past few months continue to grow. Some face challenges.

Captain Raku must shoulder the responsibilities of command while negotiating his way through his mysterious, new partner’s sudden pregnancy. Only time will tell if she is genuine or has something more nefarious in mind. It is clear that Greta Lazio has changed the Raku clan indefinitely.