The Tytania army ignores protests from the Balgash government security forces, and proceeds to a full-blown attack on the cave in the Talhari.   Miranda and the crew’s “Honest Old Man” arrive just in time to respond, immediately followed by the Army of the Shooting Star fleet of four ships, led by Doctor Lee. Together they defeat the Tytania, but at a high cost. The “Honest Old Man” is damaged beyond repair. The crew join the anti-Tytania army.  Meanwhile, Zarlish, who has landed on Balgash, pushes for ground battle, despite advise to the contrary from Granite, his adjutant officer.  At this moment, the Balgash government was also planning its own independent attack on the Tytania, exasperated with its unlawful behavior.  …