Months have passed since the interplanetary communications net was destroyed, isolating planets across the Republic of the Sphere. Achernar is one of the few worlds still in possession of a working Hyperpulse Generator Station, capable of communications across the galaxy—and a much sought-after prize for the splintering factions of the Republic to acquire. Raul Ortega failed to qualify as an active MechWarrior, finding some solace in the Republic’s military reserves on Achernar and dreaming of the day he might know the adventure and glory of real combat. The Republic-loyal forces of Achernar whom Raul serves are supported by a loose alliance with the Swordsworn, a faction pledged to House Davion, whose leaders have an agenda of their own. When the planet falls under siege by yet another splinter group, the Steel Wolves, who are intent on capturing the HPG station, Raul is called to active duty. But when the Swordsworn desert Achernar in its time of need, Raul discovers that there’s little honor in the brutal realities of war and the subtle nuances of treachery...