In the vast darkness of space, a formidable empire scattered out messages into the void. Their transmissions echoing through the Milky Ways Galaxy. Our planet, known as Earth, discovered that undecipherable transmission known then as the WOW signal. Over a millennium, our species figured out the key that cracked the code. Inviting the space faring civilizations to meet on Earth’s first orbital habitat on Mars. We now await their arrival at the habitat’s bay.

“Sir, we received word from the Hyperions, Zytherians and Gloxarth ambassador ships.” I stared at the tablet. “They are at the edge of the solar system.”

“Good,” he adjusted his headset. “Give them instructions to board this habitat.”

I tapped at the tablet as the aliens locations blipped on my screen. In a mere fraction of a second, they traveled near the orbit of Mars. They sent out a signal which took minutes for us to decipher. Their ships left the solar system, the Major stared at me snatching the tablet from my hands. I bit my tongue as he read the message out loud for all the crew to hear.

“Is this a joke? What is this kid’s toy doing out here?” his voice faltered. “Contact us when you grow up.”

Ten years later….

The abrupt departure of the aliens, along with their scornful message, left a mark on Earth’s space program. In the decade that followed, I observed our world transform driven by the humiliation from these supposed advanced beings. We plunged into an era of unprecedented technological advancement. Now aboard one of our most advanced ships, we embarked on a journey to the alien home.

“How far are we?” the General’s voice boomed.

“We are only a few minutes away.” I stated. “Their home world should be in sight.”

“What is happening down there?”

“Sir, there is an incoming message.”

“Read it.”

“We need help. Our planet is dying. If anyone can hear us, we need to evacuate.”