The binary star system 3-X12GK was a rarity.

And I know what you're thinking;

All binary star systems are a rarity.

That is true. Their eccentric orbits and gravities make binary star systems unlikely to sustain themselves long term, and makes them unsuitable for practically all settlement purposes.

3-X12GK is rare for another reason; far from just being a binary star system, 3-X12GK is an inhabited binary star system.

The two suns of the system orbit each other in a furious dance, and between the two stars there are a variety of planetoids, most devoid of life.

By cosmic coincidence however, two planets of the binary system maintain a human civilization. These planets, designated 3-X12G-Alpha and 3-X12G-Beta are home to two groups of humans who have called the planets home since before the fall.

The two planets each follow a wide orbit, Alpha following the sun Primaris, and Beta following the sun Secundus. Once a century these orbits cross however, and the two worlds experience what is known as the Conjunction.

For a period of a sidereal day, Alpha and Beta orbit within a astronomically miniscule range of each other. As this happens half of each world is plunged into complete eclipse. On this side of the world the effects of gravity is reduced by overlapping gravitational fields, and as the intense magnetospheres of the planets merge, atmospheres, albeit it thin, conjoin.

This event is traditionally the single major point of cultural, economic and diplomatic exchange between the two worlds, both of whom were technologically crippled by the events of the fall, which destroyed their space-faring capability.

The next conjunction is projected to occur in exactly 30 days.

This time, intelligence suggests Alpha is preparing more than just trade. The New Federation Reconnaissance Fleet has detected an upsurge in production of military equipment in Alpharian factories. Atmospheric craft have been prepared and loaded, and armies raised from the civilian populace.

In the coming days, 3-X12GK may once again be home to a unique event.

The first interplanetary war without space flight.

The New Federation has debated warning one or both planets against conflict, but has decided to watch and see, preferring as always to not interfere with the affairs of lesser civilizations.