Dixon Sinonyx is a man without connections. Banished from his home sector, he lives a life of self-imposed isolation, working a job that marries technology and imagination. Athen Dendrophile is a man who connects with anyone and everyone he pleases. He's a young hotshot in the world of Cadose colony data systems, and Dixon is not sure the man can be trusted.

Though they have species in common, Dix and Athen are literally from different worlds, and their origins may keep the men from ever becoming more. Despite their differences, neither operator from Sinonyx Services can leave the planet of Cadose until the colony corporation sets them free. Their lives are at risk, as are the lives of every citizen of the planet, but is it too late for Dixon to do anything about the danger? And is Athen working with him, or working to hide Cadose's secrets?