Eloch, the Champion of Entean, is asked by the planet who loves him to travel light-years from his home to Spur, a technologically advanced planet whose citizens are determined to colonize Entean. And because Eloch loves his planet Entean, he goes...only to discover that the vast power flowing through him, power only a Champion can wield, vanishes the moment the spacecraft bound for Spur enters its first wormhole. Now powerless and alone, how can Eloch stop the colonization, as he has sworn to do? Meanwhile, on Spur, SubCity KinLord Wren has her own problems. Sensing the imminent threat of a Culling, in which the strongest of her Folk are taken to serve the UpperUppers who live Above while the weak and old are killed, she must find a way to protect those under her care. How can she give the Martials what they want while keeping those they don't alive? Eloch and Wren-strangers from different corners of the universe brought together by happenstance. When their paths cross, it will change each of their missions to serve and protect, as well as the course of their very lives.