The Alliance of Free Worlds was one of the greatest institutions ever formed by sentient beings. Under an AFW charter, all were equal and free. But after 400 years, and a few turbulent times, even the shining integrity of the AFW can dull and become vulnerable to the greed and arrogance of misguided individuals. All may seem to be lost as civil war hides quietly in the shadows of the stars, but space holds many secrets that it alone will dictate their unveiling.