As we’ve already mentioned, the prequel for this series might be included in an anthology, so we can’t post it anywhere else…however, we can serialize the beginning of the next book (Book 1 in the series). We hope you enjoy the story, and please remember, there may be some changes before we actually publish it.

“It’s difficult to fight an enemy you can’t see.” ~ Lt. Commander Bruce MacPherson

Chapter 1

Ambon Island, Terran Commonwealth – 2178 AD

Three days ago, two alien ships crashed into the water of the Banda Sea.  They had self-destructed and shattered as they fell.  Despite repeated messages, there had been no help from their Allies, and no response until it was over.  Then, a cryptic message arrived from Alien #274, a loyal friend.

General Janelle Nichols glanced out the windows overlooking the water as she walked down the long hall.  She had a pretty good idea who that loyal friend might be, and she was waiting for Riz’el to contact her.  They had a long-standing relationship, and she needed to speak to the one being that might be able to tell her what the hell had happened to their alliance.

As she reached the elevators, she smoothed over the front her dark blue jacket, running her fingers over the turquoise braid.  Janelle needed to think, and she had the sudden desire to go up to the roof rather than below ground to the command center.  She needed to get an overview of what to do next. The roof seemed as good a place as any.

The view never disappointed.  It was beautiful with lush greenery everywhere she looked.  The base and surrounding security area reached down to the beach, where the water changed from turquoise to deeper blue as it reached the Banda Sea.  Janelle needed to make more time to enjoy the beauty.  She hoped she had that time.

Tapping her com, Janelle reached her aide. “Edwards, I’m going to need a few minutes before coming down to command.”

“Nothing happening at the moment, Sir,” Edwards replied.  “Ikeda says planet 335-78 Beta has not responded.”

“All right.”  The breeze picked up, and Janelle brushed a loose spiral of dark hair out of her eyes.  “Contact me if you hear anything.”

“At once, General,” Edwards said.

No response from our so-called Allies, Janelle thought, and still nothing from Alien #274.  Walking across the roof, she asked, “Where are you, old friend?”   

“I’m right here,” a voice said quietly.  For a moment, she wondered if Riz’el was behind her, then realized it was telepathy.  “Meet me at our beach.”

Janelle smiled despite her concerns.  “See you at sunset.”  She knew Riz’el would read her mind without having to say the words, but she preferred speaking.  Telepathy always felt a little invasive even with a good friend.

Looking out at the water, Janelle wondered what it had been like when this part of the world was known as the Spice Islands.  Natives watching helplessly as the Portuguese and then the Dutch invade their home.  Those two alien ships dropping below the clouds had given her a glimpse of how that felt, and she would do almost anything to keep it from happening again.

The Island of Ambon had been chosen for several reasons as their base of operations, and it had been with the inhabitants’ approval this time.  Environmental importance, Universities within arm’s reach, seclusion, easy access to the sea, and total security thanks to the joint efforts of the global military and security forces of the Terran Commonwealth. 

Most people had no idea what was happening on this southern part of the island, but that was imperative.  Even now, the idea that aliens were visiting the planet would be too shocking for most people.  They’d suffered enough during the Territorial Wars…no reason to bring up new worries unless absolutely necessary. Three days ago, it had almost been necessary.  Janelle needed to find out what Riz’el knew, and as much as she’d like to visit with her friend alone, she knew she had to bring a few others.  Not only due to security concerns, but also to put their minds at ease.  If Earth was going to continue this alliance, there would have to be transparency, and that meant asking some difficult questions.  She just hoped they’d be able to live with the answers.

Read another chapter next week!