Academy City’s peacekeeping forces are absent due to the Avignon invasion. In that now lawless land, shadowy groups start moving behind the scenes. –Those acting for their own interests. –Those who love the dark and revel in killing. –Those trying to destroy others’ hope. –Those standing up in defiance for those important to them. –Those bringing the battle to the higher echelons. –Those quelling rebellious elements. –Those who would stop a rampage with violence. In this city, which controls all of science, who will survive?