The novel follows Geiger, a professional "information retrieval" expert who specializes in extracting secrets from individuals through psychological manipulation and torture. Known for his meticulous methods and strict personal code, Geiger's life takes an unexpected turn when he encounters a young boy named Ezra during a job. Despite his usual detachment, Geiger feels compelled to protect Ezra from harm, leading him into a dangerous confrontation with his own past and the ruthless individuals who hired him. As Geiger navigates this moral dilemma, he must confront his own humanity and the dark world he inhabits.