On earth, the Fafnir has drawn the attention of the most dangerous predator known to humanity—Bureaucrats. Between human enemies and alien allies, Van finds himself on the edge of a powerful change in his career. From the depths of his family history, an old enemy returns with plans for power at any cost. Just as his grandfather did fifty years earlier, Van will meet and challenge the threat of an ancient empire that spans deserts, stars, and time. This enemy will force Van’s hand as he confronts a question at the heart of who he is—what does it mean to be alive, and who controls your life? But there’s more than just war and crime. There might be a wedding, there will be cheese, and Funboy has a growing career as a television personality in the Midwest, but only if he can wear a tuxedo, of course. Join Van and the crew as they find that friendship never dies, and neither does greed—at least, not around the Guild.