The fall of the Tunguska meteorite changed the course of history, revealing special abilities in the younger generation. This gave rise to competition between states rushing to put the new factor into service. All this worries Viktor Nesterov little. He wants only one thing - to be a tanker and serve his Motherland. However, to get even such a small amount, he has to strain all his strength. Will he be able to stand on a par with those to whom Ether was more favorable, or is his lot to follow in their wake? And do will and determination still mean anything in the new world?