Humanity has finally done it! We finally made contact with a peaceful alien conglomerate! Unfortunately, they don't really want anything to do with us.  Despite this, they recognize the value in trading information and goods, so a light bit of cooperation is allowed near the borders. Conrad McLaughlin is one of those lucky enough to be chosen to work on the trade lanes. Sadly his luck it is not always good luck, as the pirates boarding his ship have proven. Now he has to get out of here with his life, and without becoming the pariah of humanity in the eyes of the Galactic Community.