A critical mistake made long ago haunts Faid Callen. With the Packrat factions in ruins, Faid must react to salvage everything his hackers stand for. Angered, Faid takes a critical step and swears revenge violating every rule in the Packrat Code. Will his hackers still follow him if he is no longer fit to lead? The safety of the City unravels as the trance channeler's decisions bring danger. Can the Emperor, Lino Dejarre, restrain the turmoil before the City is destroyed or will circumstances rob him of his dream of peace and the end to war?