The balance of galactic power in the 31st century revolves around Illyrion,the most precious energy source in the universe. The varied and exotic crewwho sign up with Captain Lorq van Ray know their mission is dangerous, andthey soon learn that they are involved in a deadly race with thecharismatic but vicious leader of an opposing space federation. But theyhave no idea of Lorq's secret obsession: to gather Illyrion at source byflying through the very heart of an imploding star.