With the battle for Earth over, Zax and Kalare are forced to deal with the repercussions of its outcome. They enlist their closest allies to take back the Ship from enemies both new and old, and along the way they discover a most unexpected source of help.

Life on the Ship has changed, and for Zax it means a return to the top. The Pilot Academy finally beckons and Zax battles for position against a competitor who brings a fascinating advantage. Meanwhile, his friendship with Kalare remains strained as he refuses to drop his suspicions about the Flight Boss and the officer's knowledge of the mysterious humans. As the Ship travels back towards Earth, the Crew visit a series of previously established colonies...

Zax should be training to pilot a fighter with his best friend Kalare, but instead he defied the Flight Boss and his career is in the toilet. His new job managing sewage in Waste Systems may be disgusting and boring, but it allows him time to become adept with his Plug and study the Ship's infrastructure. It also exposes Zax to civilians for the first time in his life as he works closely with Imair and befriends eight-year-old Nolly. A year-long period...