The stories of three people--modern-day Michael Kearney who plays a part in a discovery that will make interstellar travel possible; Seria Mau Genlicher, a spaceship pilot modified to interact directly with her ship; and Ed Chainese, a down-and-out drifter and adventurer, living in New Venusport--are linked by the mysteries of the Kefahuchi Tract. Original. 25,000 first printing.