Alex is only seventeen, but his life changed in an instant. Instead of 21st-century San Francisco - a vast, deadly desert. Instead of skyscrapers - ancient millennial walls. Instead of college, there is a school among the sands, where only perseverance and the will to win are appreciated. Instead of lessons - the path of elevation and gaining strength in battles and spiritual practices. Instead of a diploma - a heavenly sign that will open the Gate. And losers will die...