The fifth novel in the Equations series: Forty years have passed since the end of the Krogg War, and the strains on the peace are showing. With the growing Freetown colony facing challenges from the Church settlement at Ecclesia, and the militant elements of the Church of Genesis resurging and resisting the government of President Sarah Manchester, conflict seems imminent. Meanwhile, the Larosians struggle to save their civilization from the plague that ravages it, and the Kroggs remain seemingly silent under the Earthers' watchful eyes. How long can peace last? As Setter Caine retires from his position as First Consul of the government of Earth, it becomes clear that the Earther people will have to face old enemies, and fight battles they thought were far behind them.