After the disaster of global warming, the world has finally gotten its act together. people are positive, sensible, and creating a better future and a just present. so in a world where everyone makes good decisions, what could possibly go wrong?well, other people. mardy is a twenty-something gay man dreaming of becoming a fulltime machine-tool artist. he brims with ideas, puts in the hours, has a solid circle of artist buddies-and forbidden friendships with supportive artificial intelligences. but he's always coming in second to an irritatingly successful rival. when he meets the rival's twin, unexpected consequences drive mardy to pursue not only his artistic passions but also love. and he might just possibly make the world a better place in the process.