The renowned planetary zoologist, Dr. Forret, has always loved exploring new planets, discovering and cataloging new species, and returning to Earth with his new-found knowledge. His beloved Ark, the exploratory research vessel, serves as both mobile laboratory and home to the hundreds of her crew members, who have all put their lives in Dirk's hands on their mission to Santelli Minor. But this isn't a normal expedition. When Dirk's head of security breaks protocol and engages with the planet's unexpected humanoid species, Dirk and his crew find themselves, at first, with what seems like a viral breakout inducing a comatose state. With half the crew immobilized and seemingly in a trance, a small team reaches out beyond their original plans in search of the cause and a way to reverse the disease. What awaits them is far beyond anything they've ever imagined, and calls them to do more than they ever believed they could. Join Dirk and the Ark on this perilous journey among ancient tribes, communion with the planet's sentient nature, and the dangerous forces trying to break free into the universe. Only one thing can stop it, and nobody likes what their last option has become. This book was written by members of CWC, an international writing project that invites everyone with a love of collaborative writing to sign up and take part. This is our third collaboration, if you enjoyed this, look out for CWC's other collaboration's 'The Concierge' and 'Ambition'. Please visit: www.collaborativewritingchallenge.com