Earth is at war with an alien race known as the Daak. Jace Tucker has survived for more than a year, only to be left for dead. After helping some aliens trying to save Earth's artifacts, he is sentenced to be imprisoned on another world. On the way, Jace finds that he is not entirely human. His newfound heritage has some drawbacks. Most of the universe sees them as lesser beings. He meets Eislie, another starborn, only to find she is being held against her will. Jace knows it's only a matter of time until Jace finds himself with a similar fate. He has a plan to escape by rebuilding his own ship and keeping a promise to take Eislie home. Jace resurrects an old vessel with a long-dormant artificial personality who seems very willing to help. When they do, the ship and its new captains light up the sky.