Age of Shadows: The Story of Timothy Jay Green

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Copyright page

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This is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places, and incidents are the product of the author’s imagination or are used fictitiously. Any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, events, or locales is entirely coincidental.

Copyright ©️ 2024 by Placeholder

All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or used in any manner without written permission of the copyright owner except for the use of quotations in book review.

First edition August 2024

Published by Draft 2 Digital from Placeholder

[email protected]

Dedication page

First and foremost, I dedicate this story to the reader in hopes that I will entertain and that I will inspire.

I would like to give thanks to my editor Olivia, who pushed me into making my dreams a reality.

I would like to thank my dear wife, who gives me hope that my writings might touch the hearts of those who read them.

I would like to thank my mother; the foundation for which inspires me to work as hard as I can to fulfill my dreams.

And finally, in loving memory of my grandfather whose words I will truly never forget: You made this Hijo?  Keep at it... keep writing, and you will go far.  -Manuel

Prologue: Descent

Have you ever wondered of our universe? Have you ever pondered the expansive infinite possibility that lies beyond our reach?  Imagine if you could. Calculate if you can. Fathom all that there would be past our universe.  Into the furthest reaches of our multiverse.  Into a multiplied Infinity, repetitively stacking tremendously in all directions.  I would like to tell you a story of a single universe within our vast multiverse. in the sprawling expanse of our multiverse is one so close to ours yet with an unfolding reality far different. 

In our universe in the year 2012 it was but a changing of the calendar. Marked only by a mass hysteria and an annotation of the end of the world. In this mirrored universe, however, it in fact did have warnings of cataclysmic events on the horizon. And much like our universe there’s would be far too unprepared for the things to come. In this alternate universe it was during the first month of the year 2012 that their world would nearly meet its end. Half of mankind overnight would be slaughtered in a ruthless planetary invasion by a coalition named: The War Council, which consisted of four alien species, them being: the Gharials, the Sedgebulls, the Cubozoans, and the Canis-mambas.

A collective that would travel from planet to planet taking anything they would see as valuable and decimating their populations. Invisible to the naked eye, they would bombard the earth with inconceivable weaponry destroying large portions of Russia and the United States overnight. Surreptitiously, producing two enormous craters where there were once strong militaristic forces present.

Immediately following the aftermath of the explosions, the world stood at a standstill unaware of our extraterrestrial invasion. With the world’s leaders quickly placing the blame on one another, each side eagerly prepared to go into a hellish war.

Amidst the chaos, certain government agencies discovered abnormalities in areas above northern Africa as well as southern Asia. Undergoing various detection methods, these government agencies discovered cloaked bombs levitating above similarly important military bases, in China as well as India, and what appeared to be a gargantuan flying object in a northern trajectory toward Europe.

Once notified and without hesitation, Russian and Chinese military forces unleashed a barrage of ballistic missiles at the yet-to-be-identified aircraft, while the U.S. government was still contemplating a method to either communicate with or attack the invading UFO.

Russian missiles struck with a direct hit to the located aircraft first, with a sizable nuclear warhead. Yet it remained unmoved from its point of origin. The only known damage was that of a disruption in the cloaking device that surrounded the ship.

On the second impact, China's warheads also landed a direct blow, in-turn, the aircraft shook and spat out clouds of black smoke. They hadn't destroyed it, but they did affect a part of it causing it to crash down to earth in Egypt. United Nations military forces and surrounding militaries then created a perimeter around the aircraft. Demands were spoken for the invading force to surrender, which were made in various languages and symbolic sequences. Silence, however, was the only thing to quickly fill the air.

Hours had passed and there was still no response from the mysterious vessel. All attempts to see inside the ship failed. Some believed it to be nothing but an unmanned spaceship, due to its bizarre, unearthly design. Onlooker's beliefs turned out to be sorely mistaken as soon as the spacecraft opened a multitude of large doors. As the doors eerily unbolted the desert came alive, erupting with ravenous guttural croaks and hissing that ground against the ears of the waiting soldiers. The sky went black with millions of flying aliens vomiting down blistering acid that dissolved anything in sight into a green gelatinous slosh.

Their army was brutal and relentless, with numbers that showed them as never-ending waves, raging onto humanity, crushing earth’s forces as if they were dealing with mere insects. Their towering bodies and monstrous appearances paralyzing even the most experienced of soldiers. Outnumbered, even on the home front of earth, humanity was increasingly outmatched by the power, numbers, and technology of these new enemies. In the first weeks of their invasion, the casualties ranged in the billions. Families were torn apart, and the world was thrust into utter calamity as mankind tried desperately to ensure its survival.

Throughout the struggles, a spark of hope was lit, which gave way to humanity's turn of the invasion. Rising from the shadows of their battered world what few resistances remained, fought off the invading forces exploiting their weaknesses of greed and brashness which would topple their bravado and helped the survivors save what was left of humanity. Only a few smaller vessels of the Mudlurks were able to evade and make it off the earth. Mudlurks being the slur the survivors of the invasion would begin to call them, because of their habits of digging through waste in an insatiable urge to collect what they sought as treasurable. After the invasion retreated it took 30 long years of rebuilding.

––––––––

Through the grueling years, humanity grew closer to a unified government and purpose. Using the remains of the Mudlurks devices and spacecraft they advanced their technology and understanding of space travel. With that, their thirst for revenge shot them outward to the vast emptiness of space that was followed by earth's largest reconnaissance mission a force of 6.5 million troops, with a plan to find out as much as they could and hopefully gather the perfect strategy to overpower their world.

However, Upon the arrival of their solar system, those on the reconnaissance mission realized how overwhelming the Mudlurks truly were. Not only was their planet ten times the size of earth but the initial invasion on earth was by a single ship. Their planet had billions, which were even reported to block out the sun. All of them were ready for what was reported to be a second invasion of the earth. What followed suit was a near massacre as in the first ten hours their outnumbered fleet was down to the last 2 million troops. And although they had bested a number of the Mudlurks fleet, their onslaught was too insurmountable.

They had jammed all signals, leaving seemingly no hope of reinforcements, let alone warning to be sent to earth of the coming doom. Until, coming from behind the remaining reconnaissance fleet, blazing in-between humanity’s fleet and the Mudlurks was a gigantic Galactic cruiser. Followed swiftly by an armada of 12 different species that would call themselves the Alliance. In the coming months an enormous battle transpired and although humanity’s fleet had sustained heavy losses, humans along with the help of the Alliance were able to not only detour the secondary invasion, but also force the remaining Mudlurks off-world.

What little forces remained helped the Alliance in several critical dog fights that were necessary wins. With this, the Alliance offered a place in their ranks and societies, and in two years humanity unanimously agreed and became the 13th species to join the Alliance. What followed was a time of growth and expansion never seen before in human history. The Intergalactic Renaissance had begun. Not only had humans avenged the invasion of earth, but they had joined with completely new species and ways of life and because of this humanity began to travel throughout the stars, with themselves no longer earthbound.

However, not everyone ventured into the stars, many stayed with the earth to grow what had been damaged. One of these families would grow the Nie Fallen Corporation focusing on Galactic travel, human cultural expansion, as well as safe mining in the outer systems. The grandson as well as the successor to the Nie Fallen Corporation is Timothy Jay Green, and this is his story.

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Chapter 1: Anguish

June/9/2046

34 years after the invasion of Earth

They had been shouting for some time now. And Timmy knew better than to interrupt his father while he was working. So, he stayed outside of his office pacing back and forth until the shouting had stopped. He waited a minute, his hand on the door handle, wanting to make sure the arguing had finished. The door creaked slightly as Andrew rubbed his forehead in irritation.

Dad? Timmy's timid, soft voice called from behind him. His father turned with a smile; any sign of annoyance gone from his face as he looked at his son.

Hey bud, thanks for waiting, I'm sorry you had to hear all that... He answered with a tired sigh. Before saying anything else he noticed the look of fear in his son's eyes. Oh, Timothy... Sighing and frowning slightly, he patted the chair beside him. Come here bud, sit in your chair. I didn't mean for that stuff to scare you. I should know better than to bring my heavier work out of the office. Timmy walked over to his father sitting up on the smaller rolling chair, spinning it side to side still not looking up at his father.

It wasn't the shouting. He said sniffling. It- it was the news ... about the war. he said, nearly whispering at the end of his sentence.

Oh, I see... Andrew said, rolling his chair closer to Timmy. Listen, I understand the war can be scary, especially how the news shows it, but you have nothing to fear. He gently reached out, rubbing Timmy's shoulders, giving him a comforting smile. The war is thousands of light-years away. With millions of Alliance home worlds and defensive fleets between the war and us. He put his arm around Timmy and pulled him in for a hug.

Timmy's face lessened in sadness as he wiped his nose. Hey, it's okay to be afraid though bud, it's natural. Timmy looked up at his father for a moment before lowering his head again.

But Blake said he wasn't afraid... He said, looking away again, turning himself slightly back and forth in the chair.

Well... Andrew started leaning back in his chair giving a slight smirk. He wouldn't be much of a big brother if he was, now, would he?

Timmy looked up at his father, thinking about it.  And besides I'm sure he's afraid of some things and I'm also sure he'd never tell you that either. Andrew said with a chuckle before adding. Think about the soldiers on the frontlines or the people who fought off and survived through the invasion. They had never seen anything like the Mudlurks before.  

I'm sure they were scared. Heck from what I've heard people weren't even sure humanity could come back from the invasion. He concluded stretching his back and giving a light sigh from exhaustion, Andrew looked at all his blueprints and sketches which were taped and pinned along his walls, models of his creations hanging from strings and propped up on shelves.

He stood up, continuing his gaze around his office until a glimmer shined in his eye, the very thing he wanted to show Timmy. He walked over to the model, picking it up off the shelf and tilting it, examining it and all its features. Do you know what makes someone overcome their fear? He asked, not expecting a response. Timmy’s father continued. Some might say it is bravery, others' strength. But do you want to know what I believe? I believe it is hope... Hope gave the soldiers who fought off the invasion the idea that people would survive and that they would thrive and live through the horrors. We have hope that one day the war will be over so that people won't have to fight to survive, it's that hope that makes the soldiers fight on the front lines, it's that hope that gives them the bravery to face their fears head-on... Andrew said with a captivating infectious passion. That everlasting natural desire that resides within all of humanity.  The desire to seek happiness, safety, and a better tomorrow. It's our hope in those things that drive us forward.

He held the model closely, giving a smile. So, do you know what you need to do Timothy? You need to find that hope. Use it to build your strength and bravery to stand up to any of your fears. Use it so that you never run away from what you fear, but to run at it, to overcome it. Timmy looked up at his father smiling at his resolve. Andrew turned, smiling back at his son walking over and sitting back down now with the model in hand. Do you know what makes me hopeful, Timothy? It's you, and your brother, you two prodigies of your mother and me! Our perfect creations. So much smarter and inventive than either of us could ever be. He said holding the model more into view.

Timmy's eyes lit up seeing the model. The model was none other than a Starship created by his father, its silver shimmer glistening excellently. Eyes wide Timmy took in every detail of its sleek shape. Mirrored on both halves of the ship so it could face either direction. Timmy's father called it, Charon.

You went with Blake's design! Timmy exclaimed.

Not only that.  His father replied.

Pressing a button on the top opening it horizontally showing off the inside, like a blueprint it clearly outlined that it carried two control rooms, a living quarters, a food production area and finally a power room that was specifically designed by Timmy himself.

My idea! The one I had to add an entire section of the ship for cooling! Timmy exclaimed, Andrew smiling at his response. ''Thief!" Timmy shouted, snatching the model, and taking a closer look.

ha-ha I'm sorry, was I not supposed to? Andrew laughed.

Timmy continued looking over the model as he hummed to himself.

It comes at a price. Timmy said. Andrew cocked an eyebrow before asking.

Oh, and what might that be? Timmy hesitated as he quietly murmured.

No shot tonight? looking up at his father with soft pleading eyes.

Ah, anything else I might have said yes. That on the other hand you shouldn't have reminded me of. He said, as he checked his watch.

You should go get your brother, it's time for you boys to get your shot. Timmy pouted, getting up and handing the model back to his father before walking off grumbling, Okay.

Hurry up now so we can go out to eat tonight, your mother and I wanted to talk to you two about something. His father said as he ushered Timmy out. Timmy’s mother meanwhile was already getting ready for tonight’s outing, while his brother had been working on another one of his paintings. The day moved on turning quickly to night and all thoughts of the war had once again drifted from Timmy's mind, now only centered on his favorite place to eat.

It was an old-fashioned diner, plucked straight out of the 1950s. Pulling up to the front would show its barrel-vaulted roofline with a dazzling neon pink light seen from blocks away. Before even having a glimpse of the Josh's Diner name which was emboldened and showcased right above the glass doors at the front entrance of the local family-owned diner.

Shining checkered floors under bright ruby red leather stools lined across the counter that stood in front of the prepping station. Matching the stools, and red booths that laid vertically against the large windows. The waitresses had their uniforms, black with white collars, cuffs, and aprons with the food being the cherry on top for the Greens.

Simple, Americana, and delicious. As Andrew always stated. Timmy had always felt comfortable being in a restaurant that wasn't for his family the normal extravagant restaurant where he'd have to dress up; Timmy despised that, choosing instead to dress casually and comfortably.

Adding to the day was the fact that his parents were finally talking about putting him and his brother into a public school. His brother was already on a football team, but this was what they had wanted to make them finally out of their private life. His worries of being home-taught and growing up with no friends, and that he'd be treated differently would soon be a thing of the past.

The Greens celebrated by staying a little longer than they normally would, ending their time at the diner with a little dessert. Timmy having a rich chocolate lava cake served with vanilla ice cream on top. Timmy scarfed it down while his brother treated himself to his football team’s favorite treat a root beer float. Eventually, after the boys had finished their desserts, the Greens began to make their way to their car. It had been raining for a while, but the rain became a downpour once they began to depart from the diner.

When leaving, Timmy's love for the rain controlled him and in a bit of childish fervor he splashed around in the puddles that had quickly surrounded the front of the diner with the rest of the Greens already by the car. After realizing that Timmy wasn't with them, his mother sent his brother off to go get him. His mother called out to him; her voice slightly muffled by the rain but still Timmy could hear her as she shouted in a loving tone.   Timothy! 

He turned quickly, hearing her as he saw his brother running back across the street to him. In an instant, the sound of falling rain was obliterated and combined with a flaring light that blinded Timmy as he was wrapped in an unbearably uncomfortable warmth. Shutting his eyes reactively, he was suddenly rocketed off his feet and flung back onto the sidewalk.

A wave of pain was shot across his back and arms as he tried to brace for his fall. He rolled back laying on his stomach, his skin peeled where he had slid across the sidewalk. A bitter taste of iron roamed in his mouth which lingered and mixed with the leftover taste of chocolate. He slowly lifted himself, struggling at first but eventually being able to sit up. He turned dazed slowly regaining his composure, looking over to where his family had once been, the area now engulfed in flames with only the outline of the scorched car being visible.

The world trembled, filled with a ringing that pulsed in his ears. Slowly fading until all he could hear was screaming. Panicked, he shifted his head looking for the location of the screaming only to be met with the realization that the world was not shaking, and no one was screaming aside from him. He got to his knees in a struggle as he looked on at the scene before him. Tears rushed down his face faster than the cold rain could hit the ground.

He noticed lying in the street only a few feet away from him was his brother. He tried to stand but stumbled, simply falling back down onto his hands and knees. Pain etched across his face, as he crawled, limping slowly to him, nearly collapsing with anguish as he reached his brother. Unable to speak he only despairingly forced his brother’s name to pop into his mind.

He extended his hand to his brothers smoking and blistering back. Touching it and immediately recoiling from the heat. He tried to speak but nothing came other than whimpers and the sound of himself catching his crying. Trying again, his voice whispered out.

B-Blake ... Blake... as he tried desperately to raise his trembling voice. Blake please... we gotta go check on mom and dad, I... maybe they... they need our help. He said through tears.

He tried again to touch his brother but again the heat burned him. This time, however, he endured trying to shake him which brought nothing. Timmy got up his strength coming back as he paced back-and-forth now sopping wet from the still coming rain. His coldness seeped under his skin as he was unprotected, alone now. And he could not shake the feeling of watching eyes, of an oddly inhuman sensation of being, hunted.

He grew anxious and the panic suffocated every step he took. He felt trapped in a box that was shrinking by the second as the weight of his drenched clothes anchored him down, sinking him until a loud alarm that wailed across the town sent him into a full-fledged panic attack. Causing him to burst into a sprint, afraid of what might be after him. He ran faster than he could comprehend as the rain pelted his face and body like sharp knives as he nearly slipped on the now slick surface he was running over.

He looked up, gathering his surroundings and halting immediately his body lunging forward as his momentum tried to yank him onward. Planting his feet still, he managed to stop just short of a cliff edge. There panting and gasping for air he looked out at the valley before him as thunder raged above him. He stood there taking in the valleys seemingly endless expanse making him feel evermore alone. Fierce emotions hammered in his chest, hitting him just as hard as the explosion had.

Lowering himself on the muddy gravel path beneath him. Exhausted, knowing the truth of what his life would be now made him cry again, sadness overtaking his fear as he wept. A sudden yet soft voice came from behind him.

Sweetheart? he flinched, startled by the new noise from the stranger behind him. Hey, hey you okay there hun? she asked, walking over, taking off her raincoat and wrapping it around Timmy.

Timmy tried inching away, but he was so tired he could barely move. What are you doing out here all alone? she asked, looking up from him momentarily as she tried to find who Timmy might have been with.

T-the diner m-my family. the woman looked back at him with an equally concerned and puzzled look.  

What diner honey? she asked, to which Timmy looked up and finally noticed his surroundings. He couldn't utter a word as he was completely at a loss as to where he was and how he had got there. He had run to a park and the stranger, who was a nature photographer, noticed him just as she had reached the top of the hill. Her car had been close by, but Timmy panicked, refusing to go near the car.

So, she stood there out in the rain with him as she called the cops and waited for them to show up. They arrived quickly questioning Timmy, but he could barely speak, instead he only cried as he tried to tell them what had happened seemingly minutes ago. Again, Timmy feared for his life as the officers ushered him to their car. Eventually, he reluctantly agreed, but only after one of the cops reassured him.

He was shaking and crying even after the paramedics arrived. The officers questioned Timmy again, this time asking him his age and full name and where he had been last, followed by the officer calling in Timmy's information. After which Timmy noticed that the other officer was also questioning the woman who found him. Chatter from the officers' radio came through making Timmy snap to the sound. He listened hard to the small bits of what seemed to be another officer at the scene of where Timmy's family was.

Hearing the words dead on arrival. Timmy's heart sank, lowering his head he held his tongue so as not to cry again. The officer in quick thinking silenced his radio, stopping Timmy from hearing anymore. Hurriedly the officer walked Timmy over to the paramedics who checked on him. The EMT’s surprised to find nearly no injuries aside from what looked to be slight trauma to his arms and back. Still, they settled him in the ambulance taking him to the nearest hospital.

Hours had passed as Timmy sat in his hospital room; the doctors walked around puzzled as the trauma just recently seen by paramedics was now gone completely as if nothing had happened at all. The staff offered some food and drinks, but Timmy politely refused.  Timmy's uncle B.G. would show after being contacted about the news. Taking him in as an investigation went underway while a closed casket funeral for Timmy's family followed quickly.

Timmy refused to speak for the entire process, instead he sat idly by his uncle until the caskets were laid in