The planet Syrene is gripped by Separatist rebellion. Pavlov's Dogs, a team of Russian spetsnaz lead by Lieutenant Petya Pavlov, are dropped into a world at war.

Their task is simple. Defend Hammerfall, a research centre right on the front lines, surrounded by steaming jungle. There are enemies to fight and battles to win, but the greatest dangers come from within, and the Russian Confederation faces a threat much more serious than anyone could have possibly believed…

The Khorsky Incident begins at Hammerfall.

Part I of III in the Khorsky trilogy, and a novel-length prelude to the Khorsky Incident.