It is the dawn of the sixth millenium and the skies are darkening, for the suns themselves are fading. Humans reached the stars long ago, building a Republic of high technology and universal emancipation — and then squandered it, fought over it, and finally lost it. A New Dark Age has descended upon humanity, for the greatest of civilizations has fallen and now even the stars are dying. Feudal lords rule the Known Worlds, vying for power with fanatic priests and scheming guilds.
Out in the Hira system a Kurgan liner slips away into the Dark Between The Stars. A reeling victim of a space battle with House Hazat, rumour is rife that it contains a legendary holy or blasphemous scripture, depending on your persuasion. As the liner slips into a demonic oblivion you arrive to claim the prize.