Ceti

By John Wegener

Someone is watching...

A mysterious star map is found.

Ethan still dreams of reaching for the stars. Restless for more adventure, he finally gets his chance when he is asked to explore Tau Ceti and finds another habitable world.

“That doesn’t look natural.”

Buildings exist where there shouldn’t be any. When Ethan’s team goes to investigate an alien steps out and greets them. Where is it from? Why is it there? What is the strange black stele it has?

Loki finds out about the alien...and sees potential wealth.

A gun battle results in Jade being shot and clinging to life. Ethan has blood on his hands. He has only one option to save her, but dare he risk both their lives to save hers?

• Language: English
• Publisher: John Wegener
• Release date: Dec 11, 2019
• ISBN: 9780463389263

John Wegener

I'm a dreamer...always have been.I have dreamed of flying to the stars since I was a child, looking up at the Milky Way on a moonless and cloudless winter’s night, wondering what’s out there.I started writing in 2016 and now write full time. Ten published books later, I’m still writing strong with many more stories in my head for others to enjoy. My stories revolve around science fiction, primarily space based stories with as strong an element of hard science as I can place into the stories. This means they usually occur in the near future (next one to two hundred years). But I do delve into the fantastic sci fi for stories of intrigue and adventure other than hard science based ones.Before taking up writing, I undertook chemical engineering in the steel industry for 35 years.So I now write, drawing on my many experiences in exotic places throughout my working life. These were incredible at times! I also draw on many other experiences. Some are funny and interesting.Being an avid reader, I read almost anything. It is common for me to read three or four books at the same time on completely differing topics, both fiction and non-fiction. I mainly enjoy reading science fiction and fantasy books, my favorite authors being Isaac Asimov, Arthur C. Clarke and J.R.R. Tolkien. I also enjoy crime mysteries. Ancient and medieval history in Europe fascinate me and I use extrapolated facts from this history in my stories at times.Cosmology, general relativity and quantum physics intrigue me. New concepts and understanding continually develop in these fields. This is exciting to me and is the way of the future. Humanity is finally escaping the shackles of Earth and seriously reaching out into space.I rarely use aliens in my stories as the aliens I encounter in the stories I read are usually humans dressed up as aliens. So why not use humans. I do delve into genetic engineering. That is a realistic scientific development worth exploring in science fiction.You can get to know me better by viewing my website and subscribing to my emails, where I provide more information on my activities and explore interesting topics. Or follow me on Facebook.I live in Wollongong, Australia with my wife and family.

Book preview

1

FAMILY

E than? Where are you, Ethan? Jade Powers called, raising her voice as she peered through the sliding doors into the darkening backyard of Ethan Richards’ villa. The residence sat in the Los Angeles foothills, overlooking the distant sea on one side and the San Gabriel Mountains on the other. A deck provided a view of the Pacific Ocean, and a grassed backyard was a great place to relax on warm summer evenings—or on a balmy spring evening like this.

Out here, Ethan called back. On the lawn.

The sky sparkled with an expanse of stars on the cloudless, moonless night. Nothing filled Ethan with more wonder than lying on his back, gazing into the vastness of the universe.

There you are. Jade wandered over to him.

Ethan glanced toward her and smiled as she approached, her slim body silhouetted in the light shining from the villa. She stood over him, blocking his view of the universe, but he had no problem with that. The sight of her excited him more than any stars. He frowned. Or did it? Were the stars just as important to him as Jade?

The thought left him as Jade lowered herself to the grass and lay next to him, joining him in his observations. Her warmth seeped into his side as she cuddled him.

Are we star gazing?

Yep. We’ve been to one of those, Ethan said, pointing to the sky.

Can you see Alpha Centauri from here?

No, it’s only visible in the southern hemisphere. Most of those stars up there, though, have at least one planet orbiting them. Huge Earth-like planets and small Jupiters, mega Jupiters, and any other variation you could dream of, waiting for someone to explore them.

You can’t live on most of them. We were lucky to find the ones we did at Alpha Centauri.

It was more than luck. We had a fair idea we’d discover a planet suitable for human occupation. But you’re right. We’d only survive living on a few planets.

Ethan sighed.

What’s wrong?

Nothing, I don’t know, something …

You want to live among the stars, don’t you? Would you step into the unknown?

Maybe.

Jade raised her torso and leaned on one elbow, looking at Ethan, studying his face to read his mood. You sure you’re not just bored?

I’m not bored. It’s just …

Aren’t you excited about getting married?

Of course, you’ve seen me. I can barely sit still for five seconds when we try making plans. I just want the wedding over so we can be alone and begin enjoying our married life. Feels like I’m hibernating. Nothing’s happening at work. John has mentioned nothing about going to another star. What did we build that ship for if it sits parked in orbit?

I’m sure they’re planning something. Besides, we’re off to Adelaide next week for our wedding.

Yeah, that’ll keep me busy. That and meeting your relatives. Ethan frowned. He was always nervous about meeting new people, but in-laws were a particularly daunting prospect.

Jade laughed, guessing his thoughts. I’ll protect you as much as I can. She leaned over and kissed him. Time for bed?

I’m not tired.

Who said anything about being tired?

Oh. Ethan rose, lifted Jade, who squealed in pleased surprise, and carried her into the privacy of his villa.

Ethan sat next to Jade on the plane to Adelaide, Australia, the following week, excitement and tension about the upcoming wedding at the forefront of his mind. They flew overnight, so the view from the window displayed the stars in sharp detail at high altitude, where they glowed more than sparkled. Even with the anticipated joy of announcing his love for Jade in public, his yearning seemed to pull his eyes toward the vast emptiness of space. He pondered humanity’s craving to escape the confines of Earth. Was it programmed into everyone, or was it just him? Glancing over at Jade, asleep in her seat, he sensed a need to protect her, to prevent another disaster like Chariclo when he had almost lost her. He knew he couldn’t live on if she died. He sighed. It was irrelevant at present. They were flying to their wedding, and no venture was in the wind. He tensed, panicked, sitting up straighter as a sudden thought hit him. Maybe they were planning a trip without him? He relaxed again, realizing John would never go behind his back. And he felt certain John would want his involvement, too, in some capacity. Making a conscious effort to relax, he closed his eyes and decided not to worry. Not that a decision not to worry had ever worked for him. He was a born worrier.

Jade and Ethan pulled up at her parents’ home five hours later in the car they hired for the duration of their visit, Jade in the driver’s seat. They had arrived early in the morning on a chilly late-fall day.

They both hopped out and headed for the front door, but it opened before they reached it, Bernice, Jade’s mother, rushing out to greet them.

Oh, Jade, it’s about time; it’s so good to see you; and to meet you, Ethan; come inside the house; don’t stay out here and freeze, Bernice said in her rapid-fire style, not allowing them a chance to respond. She reached Jade and wrapped her arms around her in a bear hug. As she held her daughter at arm’s length again, she commented, You look thinner. Have you been eating enough?

Jade laughed at her mother’s fuss. Yes, I have. I’m the same weight as last time you saw me.

Ethan looked on, amused and envious she still had family to care for her, wishing his mother and father were alive to enjoy such a joyful occasion. He then found himself in a bear hug from Bernice, struggling not to overbalance. Her lavender scent wafted to him as they embraced.

And how are you, Ethan? Ready for the big day?

Yes, I am, Ethan said, silently appealing to Jade for help. Jade smiled, but let Bernice complete her welcome.

You lot coming inside before you freeze? Clyde, Jade’s father, shouted from the interior. You’re letting in the chilly air.

Oh, Clyde, why aren’t you here? Bernice retorted.

I can greet them just as warmly here.

Ethan and Jade both laughed. Let’s go in, Jade suggested as she started moving toward the door.

They retreated to the warmth of the house.

Hi, Dad, Jade said as she walked to him. They kissed each other on the cheek. He was an affectionate father but not as exuberant as his wife.

You can see your mum’s excited.

Well, it’s not every day there’s a wedding.

Clyde chuckled as he reached out to shake Ethan’s hand. Welcome, Ethan. At last, we meet. Hope you both had a pleasant flight?

Ethan reciprocated. Yes, we did, thanks. I admit I’m getting nervous, though.

Well, it’s a special event. You’ll be ready for it on the day. And if we’re going to have a panic, let’s have an organized one.

Ethan smiled at Clyde’s nugget of wisdom.

Time for a cuppa, Bernice said. Have you two had breakfast?

Yes, Mum, we had meals on the plane.

Jade and Ethan followed her parents to the dining room and sat with Clyde while Bernice retired to the kitchen to prepare the beverages, which she brought out with three different types of cake.

The morning passed into afternoon, and it was time for lunch. Eating seemed to be a major pastime in this household, Ethan thought. He felt overwhelmed and claustrophobic by their attention and wanted to escape. But, instead, he sat stoically and allowed them to enjoy their excitement.

Clyde brought in their luggage and put it in their rooms. Ethan had a separate bedroom from Jade, Jade saying she didn’t want to upset her parents.

Why are you in different rooms? Clyde asked. I know times have changed.

I’m more comfortable this way, Jade said firmly.

In the late afternoon, Ethan heard a knock on the front door as he sat in the family room reading a magazine, the first moment he’d had to himself since arriving. Mayhem erupted as three children rushed through the doorway and headed for the backyard without even giving him a glance. A woman appeared in the opening. Come back here and say hello, you brats! She looked at Ethan and gave an embarrassed smile. Sorry. Kids!

That’s fine, Ethan said as he rose from his seat and extended his hand to the woman who looked a lot like Jade, and he assumed was Jade’s sister.

Lorraine?

She smiled, ignoring his hand, and coming in for a hug. The women in this family, Ethan thought, were very fond of hugging.

‘Yes. That’s me. Gavin, my husband, is getting a few things from the car. He’ll be here in a moment."

Footsteps preceded a man appearing in the doorway moments later, his arms full of belongings. Ethan didn’t understand why they’d brought so much stuff, but he was sure he’d soon find out. Gavin carried toys, clothes, and a bag containing food and drinks.

When you’ve got three kids, you’ve always got a lot of stuff, said Lorraine as though reading Ethan’s mind. Excuse me, I’d better go make sure those kids aren’t wrecking the backyard.

You could use a hand, Ethan said as he moved to help Gavin.

Won’t say no, Gavin said.

Ethan grabbed the toys and clothes that looked about to topple out of Gavin’s arms and deposited them on a chair, while Gavin disappeared into the kitchen with the food and drinks. He reappeared moments later with his arms unloaded of their burden.

Now, welcome to Hoffnungthal. He held out his hand.

Thanks, Gavin, Ethan said, shaking hands with him.

Where’s my sister-in-law?

She’s somewhere in the house with Bernice. Might be out in the backyard with Lorraine and the kids. I’m not sure.

Gavin disappeared again, and Ethan heard him greet Jade. He came back moments later. Want a beer?

Sure.

Gavin headed into the kitchen and returned with two beers, handing one to Ethan. Cheers.

Cheers.

I’d better get the old man one before he complains.

Ethan laughed. Yeah, keep on his good side.

Gavin did his duty, Clyde returning inside with him, beer bottle in hand. Well, we’ve got peace here, with the others outside yacking. Better enjoy it while we can. Clyde sat in his favorite armchair, and Ethan and Gavin made themselves comfortable, talking and sipping their drinks.

The women returned half an hour later and headed for the kitchen.

They ate a large lamb leg roast for dinner, the aroma of the rosemary and garlic making Ethan’s taste buds salivate before they started eating. Bernice piled food onto his plate, and he ate it all, so she piled more on. Not wishing to upset her, he ate that too and started to fear he might burst. The meal ended with apple crumble and cream for dessert. Wines accompanied the feast for the adults, while the children had soft drinks.

They sat talking as they finished their desserts. Clyde then stood up with a glass of red wine in his hand and tapped it with his spoon to gain everyone’s attention. It’s great to have you all here today to welcome Jade home and meet the new member of our family. It’s rare the entire family is together. Hope you two can relax in the days ahead, amidst all the furor of preparing for a wedding. It brings a tear to my eye to see my baby daughter tying the knot, but I welcome you into the family, Ethan. She found a fine man. He raised his glass.

Ethan choked with emotion and embarrassment at the attention as he found his drink and raised it with the others.

Oh, Clyde, you’re embarrassing him now, Bernice said. He might change his mind.

Ethan struggled to prevent spluttering his mouthful of wine as he half coughed. There’s no chance of that. We might elope, though.

Everyone laughed.

They continued talking until Lorraine and Gavin left to put the children to bed. The long day had exhausted Ethan. He said good night to Jade’s parents, and Jade followed him to his bedroom. Isn’t your room over there? Ethan asked, a teasing grin on his face as he pointed.

I just wanted to kiss you goodnight.

Is that it?

Not in my parents’ house.

Ethan sighed. The sacrifices we make, he said as he pouted with widened eyes and a suggestive smile.

Jade huffed and hit him on the arm before embracing him, as he did her. They kissed. I love you, she said.

I love you too. Ethan stroked her cheek with his forefinger. Goodnight.

Hope you have a good sleep.

I will.

Jade left, and he prepared for bed, slipping between the sheets ten minutes later. He lay on his back, staring at the ceiling, reflecting on the day’s events. It warmed his heart to have a family again, even if it was Jade’s.

He rose late the next morning since he had no commitments.

Hello, sleepy, Jade greeted him when he came into the family room.

First sleep-in I’ve had for ages.

Sit and I’ll prepare you a late breakfast, Bernice said from the sink, a dish in one hand and a sponge in the other.

Just a coffee will do, Ethan said, still full of last night’s roast and not wanting to cause his mother-in-law too much trouble.

Nonsense. Let me pamper you while I can.

Ethan glanced at Jade, who sniggered. He knew by her smile that she wouldn’t support him. OK. He sat at the table and waited.

Bernice made bacon and eggs with toast for him and steaming hot coffee. He enjoyed the meal and thanked her. She made it how he liked it. He wondered if Jade had mentioned his preferences to her beforehand. It didn’t matter. He relished the savory taste. Jade disappeared while he ate; he guessed she had things to do to prepare for the wedding. Clyde was absent too, so Ethan retired to the lounge chair in the family room, grateful for some peace and quiet to catch up with the latest news on his tablet. A knock resounded from the front door at twenty to twelve, but he didn’t answer it. He left that for Bernice. Voices filtered into him a moment later, the arrangement of the rooms preventing him from seeing who talked. He continued reading.

Ethan, Jade said from the doorway.

There you are. I was wondering where you’d gone.

There are people here to see you.

Me? Who?

Come meet them.

Ethan put his tablet down and rose, heading for the lounge. He got halfway through the opening and froze into a statue. General John O’Conner and Ching Hu, long-time friends and work associates of both Ethan and Jade, stood looking at him with amused faces. Two people stood with them. Tears started falling. Alice …? Mark?

Hello, Ethan, Alice said, looking nervous as though unsure of her welcome. Mark stayed where he stood, too. I hope you don’t mind, she said, but we’ve come for your wedding. General O’Conner brought us.

Ethan couldn’t contain himself. Mind? Of course I don’t mind, he said, striding the few paces to them and hugging first Alice and then Mark. We would have invited you, but we didn’t know where you were.

Ethan wiped his eyes and turned to Jade. Jade, my brother and sister.

Oh, Jade said, approaching the group with tentative steps, not wanting to intrude on the moment. Pleased to meet you, she said to Ethan’s siblings, both of whom were now as teary as Ethan.

Mark released Ethan and turned to Jade, giving her a hug. It’s good to meet you, too. John and Hu have told us about you.

Jade blushed as she glanced at Hu. I wouldn’t believe much from those two.

Hu gave a look of mock shock.

A more confident Alice came over and hugged Jade. Well, it sounds like you are just what Ethan needs in his life.

Does it then? Ethan said, staring at Hu and John. He realized he should have suspected something was up when they had grilled him about his family. He looked at Jade. You had nothing to do with it?

No. I’m as surprised as you are. All I knew was that they were planning a surprise—I didn’t know what the surprise was.

Consider it a wedding gift, John said.

What’s with all the commotion? Clyde asked as he entered the room. Bernice was right behind him.

Clyde, Bernice, meet my brother, Mark, and my sister, Alice. We haven’t seen each other in fifteen years.

Well, I’ll be. Fifteen years? It’s a wonder you recognize each other. What happened? Did you have a falling out? Clyde asked with characteristic bluntness.

Jade told me you’d lost track of your family, Ethan, Bernice said, giving Clyde a surreptitious punch in the ribs. I’m so happy that you’ve found each other again.

Well, I know it’s not noon yet, but we have a fresh cause for celebration. Clyde disappeared, returning a few minutes later with a bottle of champagne. Get the flutes, Bernice, will you?

Bernice left to find glasses, and Jade helped her. Clyde popped the cork, poured drinks, and they drank a toast. To long-lost relatives, Clyde said.

To family, they replied.

They spent the rest of the day talking until it was time for the group to return to their hotel. Ethan was glad they were all staying at the same hotel.

Emotionally drained at day’s end, Ethan needed time alone to absorb everything that had happened, so he retired outside to a garden bench.

You OK? Jade asked as she joined him ten minutes later.

Ethan looked over at her. Yes, I’m just exhausted. Come and sit with me.

Jade obeyed, wrapping her arm around his.

It’s the last thing I expected, and the emotions unleashed at seeing them again after such a long time have drained me.

You’ll sleep well tonight.

Sure will. I just don’t understand why they’ve never contacted me.

Did you ever try to contact them?

No, I didn’t.

Well, there you go—you’re a family of very poor communicators!

Ethan rolled his eyes at her, and she added, So, why didn’t you try to contact them? You’re the eldest.

I don’t know. They were the ones that left. I thought they’d return when they were ready, and then I lost touch with them. Re-uniting with them makes me complete as a family again, though. I started feeling envious of you last night, with your family around you when I had no one. It’s changed now.

It would overwhelm me, too.

And to think Alice is getting married—the family is getting bigger! And both are doing so well in their careers.

There you go, said Jade with a smile. You couldn’t have done too bad a job raising them after your parents died.

I’m so happy. I don’t want today to end.

But then we’d never marry.

No, that’s the one thing I wish I could fast forward time to. Skip the in-between stuff and resume then.

Oh, I love you. Jade reached over and kissed him.

They stayed on the bench and talked. Bernice and Clyde appeared and said goodnight on their way to bed, and much later, Ethan and Jade decided they had better follow their lead.

The rest of the week entailed long catch-up conversations with his brother and sister while Jade and Bernice attended to the last-minute arrangements for the wedding. John was Ethan’s best man. Apep Chernakov and Galena Alvarez attended the wedding rehearsal because Apep was Ethan’s groomsman. Lorraine was Jade’s matron of honor, and Hu was her bridesmaid.

Ethan felt overwhelmed when the wedding eve arrived. He stayed in Adelaide that night, bringing the men together before the ceremony. John and Apep had organized a surprise outing for him. It didn’t take much coaxing to get him to join them at the bar for a few drinks, but he insisted on only a few and on being home by midnight. He was determined not to have a hangover on his wedding day.

2

I DO

The historic church in Hoffnungthal was the oldest building in the town, built by the original settlers. It was now only used for special occasions and private bookings.

Ethan stood in front of the altar facing the priest, who stood in the sanctuary. The blue and white altar was behind the priest, and the reredos behind it, the pulpit integrated into its higher framework. Dressed in a tailor-made white English suit with a jade-colored waistcoat and tie and a red rose pinned to his lapel, he was conscious only of his racing heart and sweaty palms as he waited for the ceremony to begin. His eyes brimmed with tears of intensity as the essence of the moment hit him, the moisture threatening to escape.

At the sound of the organist beginning ‘The Wedding March’ on the pipe organ, he turned and gasped as his eyes focused on Jade with Clyde at the entrance. She wore a sleeveless pure white halter-top dress, her face covered with