Chapter 195

‘‘We leave you in this building with a clear path to world governance. Take it. If you don’t, you will be cut away from the rest of the galaxy and left as prey for these creatures. (The Senator showed a holo of a Zyptz Warrior. Beside it stood a Sarran man and a measuring tape marked in meters. The Zyptz was almost a meter larger than the six foot seven inch Sarran.) Their technology is inferior but they are learning fast.

‘‘The Earth needs to speak in one voice to help end this menace. Put aside border disputes, religious squabbles, and political doctrine. This is Earth’s new reality—defeating the Zyptz. In return we will receive great gifts from the Sarrans and their trading partners across the galaxy. My request is simple. Unite in truth as you are now in word.’’

The Senator, appearing for the last time as an American, left the podium.

* * * *

Tuesday afternoon