The expedition

"The Earth is dead and humanity's last hope is amongst the stars. For 50,000 lucky souls, a distant, alien planet will be their home after they endure a grueling seven year journey. Assigned as apprentices to older specialists, Hugh O'Callahan and Elena Ames must learn quickly to survive their dog-eat-dog lives. Meanwhile, Zeneba, a young Charnekigirl, is chosen to take the throne as mara. She must learn quickly, for it is foretold a cataclysmic event will mark her reign."--Back cover.