Velara Prime, a neutral planet nestled between the Federation, Gorn Hegemony and the enigmatic Metron Consortium, has long remained hidden from the galaxy’s powers. Its leaders believed isolation offered safety, but when Gorn warships descend upon the planet, their fragile dreams of peace are shattered. A desperate distress signal sent into the void carries the faint hope that Starfleet will answer.

Fleet Captain James MacLeod and the Ulysses Exploratory Cruiser Division, newly assigned to Task Force 21, are dispatched to investigate. What begins as a mission of reconnaissance quickly spirals into a confrontation that will test Starfleet’s resolve, ideals, and its ability to navigate the shadows of contested space.