Note: Almost totally overlapped, the events start during the Radiance War (The Radiant Sun), parallel what Kelric witnesses (Ascendant Sun) and ends after the starting events of the rule of Emperor Jaibriol Qox III (The Moon's Shadow).

Synopsis: Dyhianna from when the Eubians invade the Orbiter through Kelric's 'introduction' as Imperator that parallels Jaibriol III's investment at Emperor. From the front flap of the Tor first edition: "...Separated for decades by circumstances and political machinations, the Ruby Dynasty, hereditary rulers of the Skolian Empire, struggle to bring together the tattered remnants of their family in the shadow of a disastrous interstellar war. Too many have died, others are presumed lost, yet they must move quickly if they are to reassume their rightful place as rulers of Skolia."