Awash with loss and surrounded by enemies, Van and his crew are faced with the same challenge Mark Tudor dealt with decades earlier.

Does Van accept the crown and become a Master?

The Guild is in shambles. The 32 might be a myth. And an entire race has chosen Van Tudor as their enemy—and they'll stop at nothing to end his life in the name of power and money.

The threat isn't just among the stars. For the first time in his career, Van must protect his home planet from people who look at humans as a resource—and Peacemakers as the key to untold wealth. With Van's decision comes long-term effects and an Earth that is no longer alone in the universe, but connected to the stars...

And at risk from every danger in known space.

The decision is now. The battle is now. And the crown is heavier than one Peacemaker might be able to carry—unless he has a little help from his friends.