In the city of Newton in 2087, genetic engineering is normal, the addictive Trance has replaced much human interaction, and an omnipresent AI called Central powers the city.

CEL agents Charlie Regis and Max Lao are investigating a serial Mindjacker who taps into the neural wiring of ordinary citizens, steals their knowledge, and leaves them dead. An agoraphobic net addict named Latha Sesame may be the next target.

When Charlie’s past returns to haunt him, he and his partner end up on opposite sides of the law, with Latha’s fate caught in the crossfire.