The Beacon — Valerie J. Freireich

THE ASSEMBLY
A vast, omnipresent network-- it unifies the people of future Earth.

THE SHIP
A mysterious newcomer to the Solar System, the massive alien vessel orbits Jupiter. Its emissaries claim to be human travelers from a distant colony, but they reveal nothing about their mission. Are they diplomats of a culture that could lead humanity into a brave new era? Or a deadly prelude to alien invasion?

THE TICKER
As a judge of the Open Court, Stefan Acari investigates conflict and makes his ruling known to the Assembly--and thus to every person on Earth. Trusted by rulers and citizens alike, he is about to encounter a plot so hideous and far-reaching that it will challenge everything he has ever believed or defended. At stake are his faith in the system to which he has pledged allegiance...and the very system itself.