In 2006 of an alternate universe, aliens aim to 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?