The Terminal State

By Jeff Somers
First Published: 2010
Avery Cates is an army man. Between the army’s new dental plan and a set of first class augments, he’s been given a second chance — albeit a quick one.

When a corrupt officer decides to make some money on the side by selling new recruits, Cates finds himself in uncharted territory. Sold to the highest bidder, his visions of escape and revenge quickly come to an end when he realizes who’s bought him — and for what. Because the high bidder is Canny Orel himself. And he wants Cates to do one last job as the System slides into chaos. Cates will have one shot at getting back at Canny — but this time, Canny is holding all the cards.