When an underground research facility known as AB1 becomes the starting point of a terrifying outbreak, the world begins to collapse. An unknown alien-origin infection transforms its victims into vicious creatures known as Deadies, spreading fear and chaos far beyond the facility's walls. Austen Clan, a 15-year-old scientific prodigy, loses his father and right hand in the disaster. Saved by a mysterious scientist named Jacob Shaw, Austen must learn to survive in a world where humanity's greatest discovery may become its greatest mistake. One year later, now 16, Austen has turned his scientific brilliance toward survival, building a mechanical prosthetic hand and uncovering what it means to live in a world changed forever. But with the truth behind AB1 still buried, survival may be only the beginning. Every beginning has a cost.