Synopsis: (From the back cover of the Bantam Spectra edition:) On silver wings they sail the darkwind between uncounted worlds, the ships of the Pax Galacticus, rulers of the galaxy. Their journeys are mostly routine. But when a rebel privateer ambushes the Pax frigate Shendridan, First Master Serg Dresiv finds himself in charge of a stricken vessel, a decimated crew, and a complement of rebel prisoners - including their cunning and heartless commander, the beautiful but deadly Thyne Haught-Cargil. As Serg struggles to save the ship and bring the rebels to trial, Thyne plots her escape and the destruction of the Shendridan. Until they all come face-to-face with a massive armada of unknown origin and terrifying power - and Serg and Thyne suddenly find themselves reluctant allies in a desperate battle to save humanity.