A war lingers ahead... Bound in uncertainty by a Rivian Experiment, that no one seems to know much of, the Xykull royal family is one again fighting for survival. Not simply against the Krest system and their narcissist King, but all other worlds who crave the ultimate defense. Once again, the so-called "Coward Prince" is thrust into rumors when the Rivian experiment turns out to be a naive woman whom becomes his ward. ...Just what is a Rivi?