In the Image of Gods

Two college students embark on a six-month starship internship that leads them into an unexpected adventure involving powerful beings and a galactic conflict. When they encounter an ancient, formidable machine while stranded in deep space, it becomes a pivotal point in humanity's struggle against a ruthless empire. This novel explores the origins of an interstellar war between humans and the Qwelleron, later expanded in a series of short stories.