Artificial Means - Western Wave, #2

Synopsis: Artificial Means There is something out there!  In the second installment of the Western Wave series the vastness of space is beginning to reveal it's hidden treasures to the people of Earth and some are intent on making certain treasures their own. A clandestine plan has netted the US government a schematic of the most advanced step drive in Western Wave's arsenal. A setback that will surely impact the company and its ability to grow.
But the government is willing to admit the truth to the world for a price. A truth that in itself is shocking, merely by the implications.  But something is out there, lurking in the shadows. A demon, that some want to contain. A demon, that some want to control. A demon, with an agenda, and escape from its confines is its highest priority.  This presence has made itself known to planet Earth and the few who are aware, have a burning desire to make the discovery first.
Undisclosed Alliances form to gain access to this possible find, with the intent of understanding the intelligence within. But there is a problem. Earth's deep space exploration has run up against a brick wall. A scandal, perpetrated by government officials, to gain access to sensitive information about the Western Wave drive systems, has very nearly killed a ship and crew. Now this company of exploration is content to remain in the Sol system, fearing a repeat performance, and that is a problem.
A problem that needs to be resolved by any means necessary.  Worse still, the alien species the humans aided in the past are again being subjected to involuntary service on a planet whose surface is being obliterated by electrical machining, caused by the interaction with a nearby planet. This work needs to be carried out and a powerful force is there to make sure that it happens. Further disruption will not be allowed and anyone who tries, will be dealt with swiftly and permanently.