The Essence of Decay : Steven Bliss : 9781736073216 : 1736073214 : 05 Feb 2021 : Terrorized by memories of the past, Coretheen Nerites wanders the decaying streets of Old Chicago as glimpses of her lost family pull her into misery. Consumed with despair, her hope only fades with the dimming of the lights as a predator bares his teeth. When she assumes all is lost, an eccentric stranger appears, bearing speed and ferociousness beyond human capabilities. This chance encounter turns into a deep friendship. One that throws her against the most potent force on the planet-the Alliance of Coordinated Governments. And the one who reigns over them all, Ashling. Under the guise of a loving hand, Ashling derives his pleasure from denuding the civilians of their wealth, their freedom, and even their humanity. Manipulating the population below him, he sets out on his task to uncover his true enemy, even if the cost is destroying the world in the process. That is unless Coretheen and her new a