The time is the distant future. Earth has been rendered uninhabitable by terrible storms during which its only city, Center, constructed around a natural cave system, is sealed from the outside. Mischa, a young thief whose capabilities are enhanced by hereditary mutation, is trying to escape with her drug addicted brother from the dominance of her uncle. When a starship arrives, commanded by the twin alien pseudosibs, Subone and Subtwo, Mischa seizes her chance. All goes well until Subone, in a moment of cruelty, lures Mischa's brother into a fight, killing him. Mischa exacts her revenge, but has to flee the wrath of the aliens and take refuge back in the deep caves underneath the city.

The time is the distant future. Earth has been rendered uninhabitable by terrible storms during which its only city, Center, constructed around a natural cave system, is sealed from the outside. Mischa, a young thief whose capabilities are enhanced by hereditary mutation, is trying to escape with her drug addicted brother from the dominance of her uncle. When a starship arrives, commanded by the twin alien pseudosibs, Subone and Subtwo, Mischa seizes her chance. All goes well until Subone, in a moment of cruelty, lures Mischa's brother into a fight, killing him. Mischa exacts her revenge, but has to flee the wrath of the aliens and take refuge back in the deep caves underneath the city.