The online store administrator Alexei Levin encounters a strange statistical pattern. Using examples from his customers, he tries to uncover the secret of luck and failure. It seems reality can be manipulated: winning the lottery, succeeding in contests, living in comfort—yet there is an easier way. Part of the political and business elite has long been concerned with this question and equipped themselves with an augmented reality chip, called a “needle,” which helps them become successful and rich.