In a world overrun by mutated beasts, defiance is a death sentence. Skirting the rules entirely, a data broker collects secrets of those who rule over the limited human space. Not driven by noble pursuits - she's simply ambitious. Unfortunately, a man set to inherit the hopeless war against the ever-changing nature takes notice, and he intends to cut her insolence out with a blade. Slow and agonisingly. A lesson must be taught. Yet, the spy vanishes into the overcrowded streets. A man whose ascent to power is stained with the blood of allies and enemies alike has a lot to hide, and she never lets him forget she's still out there. Watching. Poisoning the well even further. The manhunt gradually twists into a slow, burning obsession. When enemies close in on all sides, the warlord calls upon his shadow with an alluring promise of truce. Trust is a knife. He hands it to her. Further story is available at: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DRSX826G