In a meticulously controlled world where technology and privilege dominate, Rylan Primeling’s life was planned out—until he intercepted a signal from an alien civilization. The message, sent from the distant Proxima Centauri system, is filled with cryptic numbers, atomic symbols, and a mysterious geometric code that only Rylan seems able to understand. Driven by a need for answers, Rylan sends a response, unwittingly setting off a dangerous chain of events.

The Earth Federation, ever-watchful and suspicious, quickly takes notice of Rylan’s activity. They begin tracking his every move, and soon Rylan finds himself on the run. With the help of his friend Aren, and a daring plan to avoid the Federation’s grasp, Rylan races against time to decode the alien signal before it’s too late.

Their journey leads them to the Industrial Quadrant, where rogue engineers and outlawed AIs may hold the key to understanding the message. But as Rylan dives deeper into the mystery, he begins to feel the alien presence reaching out—trying to communicate something more.

As the Federation closes in, Rylan must decide: Will he risk everything to make humanity's first contact with an alien intelligence, or let the discovery be buried forever?