When Milo Hughes reconnects with the remnants of a failed, first contact mission on a distant world, a choice is given by the god-like Foundry which will determine its future assistance towards humanity. But as factions within the colony divide those humans who remain, and aliens and tragedy strike, the results could spell doom for them all. Him and his companions, including a second star pilot gifted a Foundry vessel, are forced to chase a killer across the stars, seeking justice and a means to show the Foundry our species' capacity to protect life. At every turn they're tested by the great machine as it attempts to reveal what they believe is most important.

In the end, though, will the Foundry accept these choices? Or, will it stand in the way, allowing forces from without and within to destroy them?

The Universe only knows.