An unidentified criminal has taken hostages in Mega-City One, and the mayor is among them. The judges dispatched to deal with the situation have not fared well — seventeen lost, no improvement in sight. The perpetrator has stated one condition: only Judge Dredd may approach. There is clearly history between them that neither is willing to explain publicly. Dredd picks up his Lawgiver and goes in to dispense whatever passes for justice in this particular situation.