Two decades have passed since the revolution that won Coyote's independence from Earth. The colony may be free, but its aging computers, aircraft, and medical equipment are badly in need of replacement. The colony's survival is now in question, and help from Earth is imminent. But there are those who fear that aid from the mother world may be more hindrance than help. . .As the second generation of colonists prepare to face the prospect of another battle with Earth's forces, a larger question looms: can humanity settle a new planet without repeating the problems of the world it left behind? An answer must be found soon. Coyote's future hangs in the balance. . .