The Iteeche almost wiped out humanity. For eighty years, the peace has been based on a very simple rule. They stay on their side of the Demilitarized Zone, and we stay on ours. Today, an Iteeche Death Ball crossed the line and the guy in charge of it wants to talk to Kris Longknife. Is this a trick? Or does all human and Iteeche existence depend on Kris answering the call?