The novel belongs to my favorite genre of old-fashioned space opera. The main source of inspiration was the classic works of the masters of space opera, and above all, of course, “Star Kings” by Edmond Hamilton. The Astren Empire is the greatest power in the human-inhabited region of the Galaxy. But after the sudden death of the Emperor, a split occurred within her. The rebellious nobility is striving for the throne. The new Empress Theodora Argenis, not trusting her own military, recruits mercenaries for service. Meanwhile, in the capital, a group of senior officers is plotting to put an end to Theodora and unite the Empire under their own rule. Part 1. Twenty-five years have passed since the end of the civil war, which split the Astren Empire into two camps. Half of Astren's former possessions remained under the rule of rebellious aristocrats led by Grand Duke Daresh Kahn. In the metropolis, Empress Theodora Argenis rules, relying on the strength of mercenaries from Malluria - the best warriors of Inhabited Space. The neutral zone divided the domains of Daresh Kahn and Theodora. The main force in the Neutral Zone soon becomes the pirate clans, united under the rule of the ambitious and ruthless leader Leng Dauen. Dissatisfaction with the policies of Theodora Argenis increases year by year. Planning to get rid of Theodora, a powerful cabal of army and navy officers finds a man in the Neutral Zone who could become the new heir to the throne. But the Empress is aware of their intentions and sends her mercenaries to the Neutral Zone to thwart the plans of the conspirators. Part 2. Empress Theodora is killed by the conspirators. In the capital of the Astren Empire, the confrontation between the adherents of Princess Damira Leonis and Crown Prince Kelion is gaining momentum. Meanwhile, Leng Dauen, the Forsworn Emperor, consolidates his power in the Neutral Zone, and the Assembly of Dynasties prepares for war. Grand Duke Kahn is looking for new allies for the upcoming battle.Completion. The shaky peace between the Astren Empire and the Assembly of Dynasties collapsed. The Free Fleet attacks the Astren colonies in the borderlands, and the new Empress is forced to respond blow to blow. Meanwhile, a conflict is brewing in the Wanderers Guild...