Lady General Cambria has retired to the tiny mining town of Defiance, finished with wars and palace politics. Even when she hears the queen has died, the last thing she expects is for the queen’s son to turn up at her door, asking for her help. Her first thought is to run, but then the queen’s consort threatens the lives of the entire town. If they are to save Defiance, they might have to start by saving the entire planet—an impossible fight for an army, let alone the few ex-star pilots, deserters, and wannabe pilots they can pull together. If they can rally the people of Ocorro, they may have a chance, but to do that might cost them everything.