The promising treatment for glioblastoma brain cancer continues to make good progress albeit with some slight hitches along the way. Meanwhile, the University is facing its own funding crisis. The illegal drug scene moves to a new level with violent and cruel consequences for several sections of Persford. The police face new challenges if this wave of criminality is to be halted. One character caught up in the violence refuses to be intimidated and decides to wreak revenge.

Ron and Maureen's relationship faces some challenges when his domineering personality becomes even more apparent and each character attempts to maintain their self-respect and position.

A fast-moving story about a struggle for control on various levels where rules and laws are flouted in order to gain supremacy. As ever the story is set against a background of science and medicine.