Where once a Star League ruled, five splintered Sucessor States now struggle for dominion. In their wars, each House seeks mastery over the others, but none can conquer unaided, and none can be trusted as an ally.
Men die and worlds are smashed, but the wars go ever on.
Along the periphery, thousands of planets have fallen into chaos, savagery, and barbarism. They are ruled by men who are nothing more than thieves and brigands. With each passing decade, we fall further into darkness. Science is forgotten and learning mocked. Once-proud universities are either empty or smoking rubble, and things that were child's play for our ancestors are impossible for us.