The main action of the novel commences in 2000, at which time both the US and Sino-Soviet Eastbloc have bases on the planet. The US has its base off in the wilderness away from the major cities while the Eastbloc has placed its base inside the remnants of the Tollamune emperor's realm within Olympus Mons, a ruling dynasty that once ruled all Mars. Although in decline, Martian civilization is significantly older than that of Earth and has considerable expertise in genetic engineering, to the point that Martian engines, ranged weapons, and other complex equipment are actually advanced creatures specifically bred and engineered for certain tasks.