Earth has fallen. The Core Worlds have collapsed into chaos.
War is breaking out everywhere as planetary governments declare independence; entire sectors slip out of contact, and warlords battle for power. The remnants of the once-great Empire are tearing themselves apart. In the shadows, the Terran Marine Corps works to save what little they can to preserve civilization and build a better tomorrow. But powerful factions are competing with them, determined to establish their own order. If they cannot be stopped, if the marines cannot hold the line, the galaxy will fall into a new dark age. And there may only be one chance to nip their scheme in the bud. Does fortune favor the bold? The marines are about to find out.