Take three cities, hook them to an alien star drive. Add a mix of alien and Terran Religion and send them out to spread the word. Throw in a war between Diamond and Opal, the two strongest cities to cause bad feelings in the recent past. Add a new Protector and Opal's posturing for closer relations. Throw in rumors of the Curosa Crown and some aliens.. You get 824 pages that you don't want to put down till you are finished. This book is excellent reading and is highly recommended!