Deep Space Liaison

In 2075, mankind has just crossed the threshold of interstellar civilization. Moon bases, Mars colonies, Europa's sub-ice ocean laboratory - humanity has barely gained a foothold in the solar system. The warp drive is still in the theoretical stage, and deep space navigation relies on the older generation of "generation spacecraft" and only three experimental space jump ships. Fifteen years ago, Guizhou FAST Sky Eye received a mysterious signal from the Orion spiral arm - a "cosmic invitation" containing information in 376 languages. Every language conveys the same meaning: "We are here. You are not alone." The signal was confirmed to come from a super-civilization alliance called the "Hall Council." After the news was announced, mankind has been boiling for five years, arguing for five years, and fearing for five years. By 2075, the initial excitement has faded. Because after sending that signal, the other party became silent - for fifteen years, there was no follow-up information. Governments have switched from crazy investment to budget cuts, and "Deep Space Contact" has changed from a national project to an annual allocation that is better than nothing.