Despite winning a war against one of the world's super powers, and undertaking a mission to Earth to try to demonstrate their independence, April and her new nation still find their freedom tenuous. There are shortages and hostility, and machinations against them behind the scenes. Their small technological lead on the Earthies is about the only advantage they have besides courage and sheer nerve. But they are attracting the right sort of people, and if pressed, they still are capable of bold action. Home is growing physically and maturing. So is April.