Once the alien signal was received, One Earth’s government demanded ‘radio silence’ to prepare the world for the shocking news.

But …

An alien ambassador requested a secretive meeting with top government officials and CEOs.

The alien was multilingual:

“We’d like to set up a trade agreement.”

“What do you have to offer?”

“We have replicators that will build anything, instantly, ready for mass production.”

“Please give us 24 hours ...”

The committee departed and reconvened:

“Whatever you wish, you can have. No replicator must arrive on Earth.”

“Of course …” The alien smiled. “Here’s a list of our demands.”