Crossing the Heavenly Chasm

"Recently, the government has announced a total of nine space exploration plans. According to the latest data released by the Ministry of Finance, space-related expenditures have accounted for 14% of the gross domestic product, up 4% from the previous year..."

"According to reports, the second Joint Space Development and Planning Conference will be held the day after tomorrow. The heads of state will gather again to look forward to the future of space..."

"..."

"–beep."

The TV was turned off again, but this time, the viewers did not complain and obediently returned to their rooms to study.

Meanwhile, the planetologist sat on the empty sofa and stared blankly at the newspaper on the table.

It had been a long time since they were attacked by the alien civilization. The citizens did not know that they had brushed past the threat of an apocalypse.