There are unpleasant places in the world; James grew up in several. Dark little corners of upstate New York where violence happens in short, sharp bursts beneath the level of law enforcement - save for its aftermath - and poverty yawns like a lion's mouth to swallow up anyone who doesn't learn to scamper rat-like. James knew, but he didn't like it. He didn't like the people who made it necessary. And one day, one of them pushed him too far.

James has done many things since then, things required, and certain things that aren't - he seeks out opportunities to experience luxury, comfort, and positive attention, driven by subconscious needs he doesn't fully recognize. Perhaps most famously and entertainingly, his occasional stint as a stage magician. Also, a stint as a venue entrepreneur's rising star protege that ended in a car bombing. He's a man of many talents, and if he indulges from time to time in the fruit of those talents, he still means to see none can question his Iron Master oath...even as his methods grow more questionable.