Lieutenant Commander Vanessa Leed's path is set - to command one of the U.N. Spacy's new battle carriers on the Pioneer Mission to the far reaches of the galaxy. But first she must prove herself in the sky and in space. Can she meet the challenge, and can she endure the pain of leaving behind on Earth those she loves? Sequel to 'Salvage'.

As the First Robotech War ends, a young officer awakens to a world of pain and grief. Will those who care about her be able to draw forth the hope and strength that a devastated Earth so badly needs?