Sam's job is to make a record of cultures before the drones come and destroy them. He's supposed to take artefacts, not people. Kias doesn't know what's going on, but there are metal monsters flying around killing people and he doesn't want to be next, even if to live he has to give up the freedom he's only just reclaimed.

In search of distraction, Aster, a prickly young mage with barely controlled power, and Nash, a packless werewolf, find themselves in the same MMORPG. Aster's not much for chatting, but Nash doesn't mind-he's just grateful for the help fighting spiders in an area he's underleveled for. Neither expects their connection to extend beyond the game, but fate intervenes when Aster finds himself stranded one night. With no other options, he reluctantly reaches out to Nash for a ride. As Nash arrives to help, both are stunned to realise they've met before.