Letter 44, Vol. 1: Escape Velocity

• On Inauguration Day, newly elected President Stephen Blades hoped to tackle the most critical issues facing the nation: war, the economy, and a failing health care system. But in a letter penned by the outgoing President, Blades learns the truth that redefines "critical": seven years ago, NASA discovered an alien presence in the asteroid belt, and kept it a secret from the world. A stealth mission crewed by nine astronauts was sent to make contact, and they're getting close — assuming they survive the long journey to reach their destination. Today, President-elect Blades has become the most powerful man on the planet. This planet!

Charles Soule was born in the Midwest but often wishes he had been born in space. He lives in Brooklyn, and has written a wide variety of titles for a variety of publishers, including others' characters (Swamp Thing, Superman/Wonder Woman, Red Lanterns (DC); Thunderbolts, She-Hulk, Inhuman (Marvel)); and his own: 27 and Curse Words (Image); Strongman (SLG) and Strange Attractors (Archaia). When not writing—which is rare—he runs a law practice and works, writes and performs as a musician. One of his biggest regrets is never personally witnessing a Space Shuttle launch.

Alberto Jiménez Alburquerque is an artist born, raised and currently living in Madrid, Spain. He has put lines in French comic-books (BD's) for almost a decade now, working for Paquet Ed. and Soleil Ed. Some of his titles are: Fugitifs de l'Ombre (Paquet), Le Dieu des Cendres (Soleil), and Elle (Soleil). He has also drawn some short stories for the American comics Skullkickers (Image), Pathfinder's Goblins (Dynamite), and Robert E. Howard's Savage Sword and Mystery Girl (Dark Horse).