12 genetically enhanced children escape from a military base that created them. 10 years later, after The Pulse, a magnetic bomb that destroyed every computer in USA, has struck, Max Guevara, one of the 12 escapees, is a bike messenger in (what's left of) Seattle and with cyber journalist, Logan Cale, she tries to rid the world of crime and corruption, avoid her creators and uncover her past.

Max hires a private detective to help her track down a fellow X-5 called Zack. She is about to receive vital information when the detective is found dead. Back at Logan's place, his ex-wife Valerie shows up unexpectedly with an obvious hidden agenda. Max decides to find out the truth about her.

Max is in heat again, ready to jump at any men, even Normal! She hates her condition and is ashamed of it. Meanwhile, she is avoiding Logan at all cost and decides to cancel their anniversary dinner. After the day is over, she confronts the still-confused Logan about her condition and the two finally admit their feelings towards each other. Just as they are kissing, Zack interrupts with bad news about Tinga. They must go rescue her from a secret government facility.