The explosion of a Chinese freighter-carrying illegal workers-in Charleston Harbor may be the first sign that someone is capping Chinese interests abroad. After explosions in South Africa and Taipei, Op-Center roots out the reason: warring factions in the Chinese government. But nonetheless reeling from budget slashes and an almost devastating attack by an electromagnetic pulse explosion, Op-Center itself sustains a third hit: the removal of Commander Paul Hood, replaced with a three-star general in the Army. Op-Center is now beneath the control of the Pentagon. Hood’s very own future exists at the whim of the new President. As well as the globe braces to get more attacks….