IN THE SHADOW of Mt. Fuji, in a far future Japan, the oppressive Batsu government controls the rebuilding of the devastated country, bestowing boons on privileged citizens while leaving most to fend for themselves on the fringes. After a disastrous job ends with Batsu enforcers hunting him, reformed thief Roshike runs—right into the heart of their regime, the fortified Gaku complex, to take on an almost impossible task. And he just might stand a slim chance of success, if only he’ll accept some help. But first he has to decide who he can trust...

HAVING LITTLE HOPE left, Roshike’s friends refuse to give up as they approach the endgame of their effort to take down the power behind the Batsu. Against almost impossible odds, they’re ready to risk their lives to remake the system—but what else are they willing to do, and what are they prepared to lose in order to win?

ROSHIKE AND FRIENDS must work from within the beating heart of Batsu society while enforcers edge ever closer to discovering—and eliminating—at least one of their number. When it comes down to a decision between their own safety and everyone’s future, what will they choose to do?