The human empire is gradually losing the war. Using new technology, the Imperials discover another human civilization millions of light years away. It lags behind the Empire in development, but is also waging a war for existence. The Imperials see a chance in unification, but to reach potential allies, they need a portal consisting of a pair of gates. Brigadier General Dean, who suffered radiation damage in battle, is already preparing for death when he is offered a transfer across the abyss of space into the body of a terminally ill teenager in a coma. Dean's task is to heal, make a career, break into power and build the second gate of the portal.