The fourth of the 'Lensman' stories, this volume recounts the further adventures of Kimball Kinnison. He has attained the goal which every Lensman seeks and so few attain - that of 'Un-attached ' Lensman - accountable to no one anywhere, completely independent, completely free. Further, he is learning how to make full use of his lens. He has need of this knowledge, for ever more complex grow the problems as Kinnison works his way up through the ranks of the enemy.