An anthology of twenty-three science fiction stories features the work of Poul Anderson, Karen Joy Fowler, Ursula K. Le Guin, Kevin J. Anderson, Gregory Benford, and others. Reprint.

A collection of 20 magnificent stories by such widely inventive minds as David Brin, Ursula K. LeGuin, and Stephen R. Donaldson, and more.

The Skolian Empire rules a third of the civilized galaxy through its mastery of faster-than-light communication. But war with the rival empire of the Traders seems imminent, a war that can only lead to slavery for the Skolians or the destruction of both sides. Destructive skirmishes have already occurred. A desperate attempt must be made to avert total disaster.

In the distant future, the Skolian empire rules one third of the human galaxy, and is the most powerful of all. For the ruling family has the power of telepathy, and through it, the ability to communicate faster than light across the interstellar space. but their most determined enemy, the traders, who thrive on human pain, need to interbreed with a Skolian to gain their powers. And now they have her.