From Introduction: HARD TIMES ON SODOM Generations have passed since the Second War and the Collapse. Here on the accursed Isle of Sodom, cut off from whatever yet remains of civilization, all life centers around the rails. To transport goods or people across the rocky, dangerous terrain, we must use the railways left for us by our ancestors; and the Syndicate controls the rails. Hidebound and cruel, the Top Hat Syndicate dominates the Isle, meting out harsh justice, controlling all commerce, and eliminating 'undesirables' without hestiation; sentient steam-trains unload jackbooted soldiers to shake down villagers and claim the Syndicate's 'share' of everything. Then, suddenly – hope. Above the chuffing of the engines comes a shout – a flag appears through the steam and smoke – the guerilla revolution has come at last! A railroad underground composed of freethinking gypsy anarchists, steam-tech gadgeteers, fringe philosophers, rogue psychics – these are the railgangers, and they have sworn to tear down the Top Hat Syndicate and liberate Sodom once and for all!