A recruit's talent for tinkering raises concerns. Chase receives an overdue upgrade. The Vanguard goes on the offensive and engages a frighteningly familiar foe.
In a dystopian future Earth, an international coalition known as The Polity fights a hostile, autocratic invading force known as The Union. Earth's last free society recruits a diverse team of young pilots to control the next-generation of mecha-giant, weaponized robot bodies.
The gen:LOCK program and its members participate in the development and testing of an experimental technology which allows for individuals with unique mental make ups to have their minds uploaded to giant suits of mecha armor called "Holons". These daring recruits will find, however, that their newfound abilities come at no small cost.