It is the 24th Century and humanity is just gaining a toehold out among the stars. Stellar Survey Starship Magellan is exploring the New Eden system when they encounter two alien spacecraft. When the encounter is over, the score is one human scout ship and one alien aggressor destroyed. In exploring the wreck of the second alien ship, spacers discover a survivor with a fantastic story.
The alien comes from a million-star Galactic Empire ruled over by a mysterious race known as the Broa. These overlords are the masters of this region of the galaxy and they allow no competitors. This news presents Earth's rulers with a problem. As yet, the Broa are ignorant of humanity’s existence. Does the human race retreat to its one small world, quaking in fear that the Broa will eventually discover Earth? Or do they take a more aggressive approach?
Whatever they do, they must do it quickly! Time is running out for the human race...
The expedition to the Crab Nebula has returned to Earth and the news is not good. Out among the stars, a million systems have fallen under Broan domination, the fate awaiting Earth should the Broa ever learn of its existence. The problem would seem to allow but three responses: submit meekly to slavery, fight and risk extermination, or hide and pray the Broa remain ignorant of humankind for at least a few more generations. Are the hairless apes of Sol III finally faced with a problem for which there is no acceptable solution?
While politicians argue, Mark Rykand and Lisa Arden risk everything to spy on the all-powerful enemy that is beginning to wonder at the appearance of mysterious bipeds in their midst…
The great debate is over. The human race has rejected the idea of retreating to Earth and that the Broa will continue to overlook them—at least for a few more generations. Instead, the World Parliament, by a 60-40 vote, has decided to throw the dice and go for a win. Brave words echo in Parliament Hall as members declare a victory inevitable.
While plans for war mount on Earth, Mark and Lisa Rykand face grave danger as spies in enemy territory. The Broa have begun to scrutinize these strange two-legged interlopers and question their intentions. It’s only a matter of time before their identities are revealed.
But the Rykands’ mission is key to securing a victory. With the number of forces favoring the enemy by roughly a million to one, Earth will need all the help they can get…