Restored to her former state of health (and determination) Lady Cecelia goes in search of fresh bloodstockshe's had enough of politics. But once again she manages to put herselfand Heris Serranoat the point where lightning will strike. This time it's invasion from the neighboring empire: The Benignity of the Compassionate Hand. Heris is only a civilian now, with a space yachtwhat can she do in the face of a full-scale fleet of warships? But she is also a Serranoborn to lead.