The Naats begin their onslaught, but the Topsidians prove worthy opponents, and the cost of the resulting battle is staggering. Meanwhile, the Tosoma's crew attempts an escape with the help of their captor, Toreead. Will they be able to bridge the communication gap and make a new ally? Or will the Naats lose the battle, dashing all hopes for the trapped humans?

Elsewhere in space, the tyrannical, self-serving hand of the regent is determined to boost his own status by using the Naats to wipe out the Topsidian resistance, but plans are afoot from both Atlan da Gonozal-an ancient immortal Arkonide-and Perry Rhodan, who has been taken aboard the hand's ship. Things go smoothly at first, but when Crest senses Atlan nearby, he takes a risk that could endanger everyone.

Now it's up to Rhodan and Reginald Bull to seek out Atlan in hopes of ending the threat of interstellar war. It all hangs in the balance as the conflict reaches its epic conclusion!