In 2006 of an alternate universe, aliens invade Earth. They're bent on enslaving the human race for their vampirish appetites. They meet resistance in the way of five young men and women trained well by their mentor—a member of the invading race dedicated to uniting the worlds for the betterment of the galaxy. But as the warriors progress in their fight, they learn every story has two sides, and no one turns to desperate conquest overnight. What more is there to the planet known as Cinder and the beings known as Icari? And what agents are driving the collision of these worlds?

Captured? Check. Drugged? Check. Mined of her blood to keep the conduit open? Check.

Rayne is the bridge between Earth and Cinder. Unfortunately, no one asked her permission to open it. But she has plans for when she awakens. Killing Nox, King of Cinder, isn't revenge. It's justice. For her. For her people. And for every other planet he reduced to nothing.

While her family comes to terms with their recent losses, Rayne adjusts to life as a weapon of war. The good news? She can stop Nox before he aces his crash-course in self-destruction. Taking them with him. The bad news? She has to distance herself from those she loves most or risk her own destruction.

If the good guys win, Earth might be accepted into the Vast Collective and all the helpful technology that entails. If they fail, humanity, the Icari, Earth, and Cinder go down in flames.