Mankind has moved on from mother Earth, and after the invention of warp technology, is fast mapping the universe one light year at a time. Due to a shortage of materials, the Earth Federation instigates a new program to upgrade old and retired vessels. The Mephistopheles, a small ageing scouting craft, is the first ship to undergo the process. Crewed by a new compliment of 6 crewmen, she is assigned to map out the Caracus galaxy.

Just a few days into the assignment, the crew of the Mephistopheles discover an unknown artefact floating unprotected in deep space: an ancient metal locker. Ignoring advice from the Federation to leave it for a research vessel, the captain brings it aboard and prepares to lift the lid..