In the twilight of the twenty-first century, the Earth has a population exceeding one billion. For many, the technological dreams of the past have become a reality that has emulsified industries, cultures and spiritual systems into a complex network of world order. It is an emergent period of peace, prosperity, and safety that is maintained by the Guardians and their nano-robiotic body and mind enhanced Shadow Dancers. For Djawu Qaletaqu, a twenty-one-year-old steam punk musician in the recently formed global capital city of Nu Jeru, this new order means compulsive world service duty for indies like himself. Compelled to avoid conscription in the upcoming lotteries he must find a way to break into the corporate music scene. The accidental discovery of a secret terroristic data threat hidden within the hottest nightspot on the planet catipults the brash, impetuous sitarian slinger into a series of adventures and political intrigues. Accompanied by a child-sized human assister robot and a beautiful and powerful Shadow Dancer, Djawu challenges the plans of a mysterious and sinister figure.