The Expanding Universe 8

Explore the universe… with the 8th Volume of The Expanding Universe
“Two possibilities exist: either we are alone in the universe, or we are not. Both are equally terrifying.” Arthur C Clarke penned those words, and they stand true to this day. Do we want to be alone? Leave it to science fiction authors to address that question in equal measure.

Aliens can be peaceful or not. Who will emerge as the superior strain of intelligence? Humanity may be new to the game, but they aren’t new to conflict.

Fantastic races vying for dominance. A microcosm of the greater good. Battles fought for higher ideals. Battles fought just to survive.

War doesn’t care about human or alien. The soldiers fight, and they fight hard, as if their lives depend on it.
Because they do.
Contributing Authors and Stories:

Remora Alienby Lawrence M. Schoen
An immortal assassin must consider if he is still human

To Catch a Thiefby Mark Henwick
Stranded on an icy moon in the remote and lawless Frontier, merchanter Sam must sup with the devil to get her spaceship repaired, and she’s all out of long spoons.

The Rule of Beliefby Kelly Curtis
NASA chose me to assess how people would react to the news there is life on other planets; to my surprise the aliens chose me too.

Finders Keepersby Jerry Shepard
A quick score leads to more than they bargained for

Genetic Dustby E. L. Strife
A rescue mission leaves a security officer stranded and unveils a secret that could turn the tide of an ancient war.

The Darenti Incongruityby Julia Huni
When Lieutenant Nate Kassis gets trapped on an alien planet, he discovers something that will change the galaxy—if he gets back to his team.

“Down to the Bone”by Jonathan P. Brazee
When stripped of her military tech, can a wounded combat engineer survive an enemy killer bot?

For the world Is hollow…by Craig Martelle
A story of two scientists seeking a single truth.