Adrian spent the remaining time cultivating and restoring his energy.
A few hours before the 24-hour deadline, a planet-wide command was given. Everyone was to temporarily return to their homes and stay locked in. The celebratory streets of New Haven and every other city fell silent, leaving the world quiet, waiting.
Left for one man to stand guard.
Adrian stood on his high balcony, his eyes fixed on the sky. He had done all he could. His status panel showed the local time. Exactly 24 hours had passed since the silver ship's departure.
He returned his gaze to the heavens. Not more than five seconds passed until he saw it. A flicker, then a streak of white light that resolved itself into the same, perfect, disc-shaped ship.
This time, it did not hover at the edge of the atmosphere. It descended with an astonishing, terrifying speed, its silent fall more dreadful than any roar.
