Rear Admiral Lavrov is almost there, or so it may seem. The prototype of the subspace portal has been successfully tested, the hyperturn construction program has been approved by the president, and the Earth Federation has a new ally. But the ally is weak, and rather needs protection himself than can help people. Time plays against Lavrov. He understands that the Quargs have found an effective means of countering the Federation's new weapons and are preparing a large-scale offensive. Lavrov has no doubt that the enemy will strike before the hyperportal is built. Despite the cruel time pressure and misunderstanding on the part of the top military leadership, he is preparing two operations at once - the defense of the planets of the Federation and a counterattack.