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Normally, communication between Mekhos and governments around the world was facilitated through the US State Department. The current crisis dictated that higher office be involved. The U.S. Vice-President had composed a message to TranSilica, demanding an explanation for the Moon’s dangerously close proximity to Earth. The President was composing his own, slightly more aggressive letter when for the first time in a week a message from Mekhos was received. It contained strict assurances that the Moon’s orbit was being corrected.

Two dozen governments, all in countries with high capacity, high technology manufacturing resources received the same message. It also contained detailed instructions on how to best start construction on three-thousand Condor series vehicles.

It was a fully enforceable order from Mekhos. It was non-negotiable. Each country had its assigned tasks, spelled out in the finest detail. Some countries would construct electronic components. Others would manufacture vehicle parts. Cooperation between nations was needed and expected. Humanity had no choice. The alternative was extinction. After reading the full content of the message, the leaders agreed. They had to act immediately.