The year is 2804 AD. Humanity has colonized the universe. But the authority of the Confederation of Human Worlds is spread thin. Where the Army of planet Earth cannot reach, mercenaries must keep the peace--and the Dirigent Mercenary Corps are the best of the best. Lon Nolan has distinguished himself at the DMC, and he has the battle scars to prove it. Now, the governor of the isolated mining planet of Bancroft again needs Lons help. The Colonial Mining Cartel is terrorizing the planet, and Lon is the only person who can stop it. Hed never thought hed have to return, and now hes going back to face a more disciplined adversary than ever before. This time, the responsibility for the Second Battalion falls on him.Lon Nolan has distinguished himself at the DMC, and he has the battle scars to prove it. Now, the governor of the isolated mining planet of Bancroft again needs Lons help. The Colonial Mining Cartel is terrorizing the planet, and Lon is the only person who can stop it. Hed never thought hed have to return, and now hes going back to face a more disciplined adversary than ever before. This time, the responsibility for the Second Battalion falls on him.The Dirigent Mercenary Corps books are classics of military science fiction. Rick Shelley was himself a veteran of the U.S. Army, and his experience and knowledge shine through on every page.PRAISE FOR RICK SHELLEY"Rick Shelley was a soldier at heart, and his books were written from the heart. They carry the real feel of the sweat, blood, and camaraderie of those on the front lines." --Jack Campbell, author of the bestselling LOST FLEET series