"A Touch of Cooperation" by D. A. D'Amico - eBook

On the alien world of Crucible, survival is a brutal test of wits and will. Shira, a resourceful botanist turned reluctant explorer, fights to endure against ruthless alien predators, an unforgiving environment, and dangerous human soldiers. Stranded alongside her injured companion, Esti, she clashes with the enigmatic Captain Lucas, whose motives are as opaque as the portal that brought them to this strange world.
 
When the search for an ancient alien artifact, the Siidi engine, leads to a deadly standoff between humans and alien factions, Shira discovers the true challenge: cooperation. The Siidi’s ultimate test demands unity between species, but bloodthirsty predators, unyielding soldiers, and Shira’s own fractured trust threaten to doom them all.
 
With time running out, Shira takes a desperate gamble, forging an unlikely alliance with the alien enemies to unlock the engine’s mysterious power. As violence ebbs and a shimmering portal home begins to open, Shira faces an impossible choice: trust the untrustworthy or leave humanity’s worst behind.
 
Crucible is a high-stakes adventure of survival, intrigue, and the enduring hope that unity can triumph over fear. Perfect for fans of science fiction thrillers and tales of moral complexity, this gripping story will keep you on the edge of your seat.