Since the collapse of the Soviet Union, the population of the Ash Mountains has dropped by more than half, with no signs of growth or relief in sight. A place once known as the El Dorado of the proletariat has become synonymous with death and decay. However, legends remain: dwarves atop semi-coke mountains, exiles digging for forgiveness in pits, Mercedes-Cowboys roaming the night, and a magical bird, who must burn up to rise again.