The dusty road widens into a four-lane highway that leads to the entrance of Chichén Itzá, the capital city of the ancient Maya and the most visited tourist attraction in Mexico. Harbored within this 3.75-square-mile jungle-enclosed park are richly carved temples and shrines, the centerpiece being the Kukulcán Pyramid, a perfect ziggurat of stone that rises seventy-five feet above the grass-covered esplanade.

Dominique’s heart races as she thinks of the structure … and the alien vessel buried beneath its foundation.

For nearly a week, Dominique had remained at Evelyn Strongin’s home in St. Augustine. But after her initial contact with the spirit of Maria Rosen-Gabriel, the energy force had shut down, refusing further communication. This ‘silent treatment’ caused Dominique to have doubts about the validity of the first message … and its source.

‘No offense, Evelyn, but how can I be sure that was really Mick’s mother who spoke with me?’

‘Who else would it be, child?’

‘Maybe it was you, pretending to be in communication with your sister. Or maybe you weren’t even aware of what was happening. My background is in psychiatry. Over the years, I’ve seen some pretty bad cases of schizophrenia.’

‘The energy source was Maria’s.’

‘If that’s true, then why hasn’t she spoken through you again? It’s been days since the last communication. I can’t hang around this town the rest of my life. You’ve succeeded in freaking me out to the point where I’m seriously considering an abortion.’

‘Choose that route, and you not only condemn Michael, but humanity’s future as well.’

‘So says you. I need real answers, Evelyn, not riddles.’

‘Dominique, Maria senses your fear, and this is why she’s ended communication. Fear is one of humankind’s strongest negative emotions. Negative emotions create negative energy, and negative energy attracts negative spirits. Communicating with the dead is not like placing a phone call. Anyone can answer, including demons like the Abomination, who is as powerful as it is cunning. Sensing your fear, Maria felt it best to end the communication rather than tip our hand to the enemy. The success of future sessions will depend upon your ability to control your negative emotions. But first, you must fully commit to the journey.’

‘Again with the journey. What journey? How can I commit myself to something I don’t even understand?’

‘You do it by acquiring knowledge. Study the Mayan Popol Vuh. Familiarize yourself with its story of Creation. Seek answers from those you trust.’

‘That’s just it, I don’t trust anyone. I’ve never felt so scared and alone in my life.’

‘Julius and Maria felt the same way when they began their own journey, and I’m sure Michael shared these feelings. At times they lost sight of the path, and yet they continued on, their resolve strengthened by faith, knowing they were following their destiny.’

‘What would Mick do if he were me?’