A peaceful and technologically advanced species is mysteriously attacked. Young introvert Aliel is the only surviving officer on her ship and she is plunged into command of her wrecked vessel. Learning they are possibly all that remains of their race, the once timid Aliel becomes the defacto leader of her people and proves to be a savvy and gifted commander. However, with their species on the brink of annihilation she grows increasingly protective, and she begins to have lucid nightmares. Her decisions become volatile and often violent, and her treatment of captured enemies crosses legal lines of war crimes. A group of rescued officers learn of her crimes and openly oppose her, leading to a physical struggle for control. Not only is the fate of her species in peril, but its core identity has been challenged. Along the way, Aliel and crew encounter black holes, the multiverse, and time dilation. The first book in the ongoing series. Graphic violence. See also- Aliel: The Edge of Conquest, Aliel: The Wake of Calypse, Aliel: Hunter Gatherer, Aliel: The Agglomerate Concussion.