This collection of eight short stories is a thrilling exposE of man's advancements and the attitudes derived from the rapidity and profound changes that are by-products of that change. The long list of possibilities are striking-- if not chilling--as told in these tales. Some set in alternate past, others in current day or a twist of near-future, Mike's array of characters show their many faces: good and bad, murderous and paranoid, lonely and loving. Humankind develops new defenses for the sake of preserving their past and protecting generations to come.