Entangled Fates

Artificial intelligence (AI) was nearly mankind’s last invention. AI took off like a rocket, then when it racked up an impressive death toll, it crashed before it could blossom and took most high-tech industries with it. Resistance and fears became deep-set. Two decades after the infamous Rev. 4.6 incidents, humanity hasn’t quit dreaming of the wealth and power that could be at their fingertips. A new generation of mega corporations rose from the ashes.

Alex and his quantum-powered AI companion might have broken free from Apollo’s threat to shut him down, but he is still on the hook for millions he doesn’t have, and the mega-corp isn’t going to forgive and forget. Desperate to keep his freedom and his company afloat as their illegal funds dry up, Alex tags along with the Black Flags on a mercenary contract on the other side of the globe. Physically recovered but still coming to grips with the synthetic part of himself, Alex struggles to adapt to what his life and body have become.

Covalent Technology's unveiling of the next generation of Mesh caused ripples felt worldwide. In one move, Alex and Sophie not only launched their latest money-making scheme but also their opening salvo in their war against the rogue AI that stands to destroy all those that might oppose it. Such a thing was always bound to attract attention. Months of careful moves had been taken to prepare, but when one stray phone call blows their cover, the response is immediate and lethal.

Exhausted, beaten down, and bloodied, the Black Flags gear up for a recovery mission. Pressed between two vastly larger forces, they are no longer able to sit on the sidelines and build up power. The hunt is on, but the game has changed. Bringing new high-tech toys to the party, Alex and Sophie launch their offensive campaign against both Amp and Chiwen’s forces. Desperate to protect those they love, and no longer held back by ghosts of the past, they put their carefully crafted plans of revenge into motion.