Echoes of Time

Traq discovers a hidden laboratory on Daer containing a clone of himself in cryogenic suspension. He encounters a transformed woman who reveals he is a manufactured weapon—a clone created by an alien intelligence.

Two years after Arcadia's discovery, Traq liberates a massive slave facility on Daer, killing guards and freeing prisoners. Miraculously, he finds Adeline alive in the deepest cage—thought dead for three years. Adeline reveals slaves speak of something ancient and old.

Darius Gray enjoys a moment of peace with Alyssa on Daer, celebrating their escape from Tellus. Alyssa betrays and poisons him, revealing she now controls the Union. A distant voice—something not quite human—confirms plans to position Union fleets at Jaril.

Traq tracks down Emoria (Ria), a criminal information broker, after she helps Gunther Finn escape Terminus. Through surveillance and deception, Traq poses as a wealthy off-worlder and catches Emoria in a bedroom ambush.

Smugglers Askeld, Moot, and Reggie discover the legendary Arcadia station in Sector Six after their warp drive fails. Exploring the massive ancient vessel, they discover hundreds of preserved human bodies and encounter something alive on the station.

Traq Lain, a former Union soldier turned assassin, infiltrates the Oppenheimer estate to kill Nicolai Oppenheimer, the architect of the Tellus bombardment that killed Vivian.

Seven months later, Traq returns to the Petticoat bar to find Myra has kept his weapon safe. He makes love to her and promises to return for her after his current work. Immanuel contacts him with a high-priority assassination target: Nicolai Oppenheimer, High General.

Captain Kristi Grove plans her next move against Darius in the Union. Jamir warns her about political consequences and assassination risks, which she dismisses.

Tellus is attacked by Imperial forces with nuclear bombs despite Darius's belief in a merciful plan. Only 4 cities have defenses; the other undefended cities are obliterated. Three armored Emperor's Blood soldiers are dropped to hunt Darius.