It took place on Tuesday morning, June 5, 2007, at the Miko-Wolfe brick quarry in Tijeras Canyon, New Mexico. At 10 a.m., quarry employees felt a strange vibration emanating from a long-since abandoned corner of the pit. What was stranger still was their mutual and overwhelming compulsion to discover its source. As bulldozers removed material from the cliff face, one of them struck something which gave off a 'pinging' noise. Within minutes, a strange metallic object had been revealed, but only part of same. What they uncovered, for lack of a more precise description, looked like the nose end of a football. Everything came to a halt, as workers (pardon the pun) "huddled" around for a better view. The foreman, Jack Forgosh, immediately got on the phone to Tanya Wolfe, one of the owners of the company, who drove out from Albuquerque. When she saw the object with her own eyes, she was absolutely stunned. As both a managing partner in the family business, as well as a geologist by trade, she knew this was a great discovery. Before permitting further excavation, she, in turn, contacted her good friend, Perry Balkin, Curator of Paleontology and Geology at the New Mexico Museum of Natural History and Science. About an hour later, Perry showed up to take a first-hand look.
Tanya, facing the former member of her dissertation committee, said, "It couldn't have been inserted, planted or drilled in."
"No," Perry confirmed, "this has been here since this material was first deposited, sometime in the Quaternary." The five employees listening to the conversation glanced at each other for an explanation, but there was none. They comically shrugged their shoulders in unison. Dr. Balkin, seeing their perplexed expressions said, "Gentlemen, what we have here is something that landed, crashed or was planted some 100 thousand years ago. It's a fantastic find, there's no doubt about it." Turning his attention to Dr. Wolfe, Perry noticed her grinning from ear to ear. He knew her well enough to know what she was going to say before she said it.
"Okay, Perry," she began, "I'm thinking Five Million Years To Earth, Sphere, or The Thing From Another World. I knew you'd come up with those," he replied, "but you left out 2001: A Space Odyssey." They laughed out loud, which made the others think these two had truly lost their minds.
Following Tanya and Perry's explanation of their mutual interest in fantasy/science fiction films (to little visible interest or effect), the quarry workers pitched in to wrest the 'football' from the cliff face. (They had the men promise not to use thermite bombs). After an hours hard labor, the object was freed. Indeed, it turned out to be a prolate spheroid, five times larger than an NFL football. What was truly amazing was its weight; it was as light as a feather. There were no creases, lines or windows of any kind. Its surface was entirely smooth. Dr. Balkin noted the object had no discernable smell, and possessed an opalescent sheen when placed under direct sunlight.
The seven of them simply stared at it for several minutes when, breaking the silence, Perry said, "Obviously, were not going to be able to keep a thing like this quiet. Tanya, your family's not going to open up a booth here at the quarry charging customers a quarter a piece to take a look. I can't bring it back to the Museum's lab, if for no other reason than we simply don't know if it's safe. And lastly, the second we get on the horn to Kirtland, there'll be choppers all over this place, and we'll never see this whatever it isagain. Hopefully, the same wont happen to us."
"So, you're suggesting…?" Tanya asked.
"Let's contact KOBTV, and get a film crew out here. Get on the local news. Once the public gets a whiff of this, there's no way the government will be able to bury it, or us, as the case may be. Well all get a few days of fame, but I know that none of us here is going to be associated with this piece of merchandise much longer; and that's a fact."
"Well," Tanya began, I'll go ahead and get the TV people out here. I suppose I should also let my uncle Paul and my brothers know what's happening. After all, business will probably be interrupted for awhile."
At two in the afternoon, they received the film crew at the quarry. Like the others, they, too, were 'blown away' by what they saw. They immediately contacted the network execs in Albuquerque, who opted to go live with the broadcast. Juan Luna, the worker who initially made the discovery, Jack, Tanya and Perry were all interviewed standing next to the 'thing.' The reporter then concluded the session by promising his viewers that more news would follow as events unfolded. Once the engineer in the van yelled "cut," everyone reverted to becoming mere gawkers.
Now that one of the greatest finds in recorded history had been made public, there was no stopping the long arm of the Federal government. Within 27 minutes of their going off air, several carloads of individuals attired in environmental suits arrived on the scene. And, as predicted by Dr. Balkin, helicopters began circling overhead. The Air Force, in conjunction with Homeland Security personnel, was in command.
What Perry Balkin hadn't counted on was the full price of fame. For reasons not fully explained, he and the others (including the television crew) were placed in quarantine for eight days. The quarry itself was sealed off, at which time the Army Corps of Engineers literally carved a mile-wide hole in the ground searching for a companion vessel. None was found.
The spheroid was moved to a clean room at Sandia National Laboratory (SNL) in Albuquerque, where it went through a series of round-the-clock tests for two weeks. After 14 days of its being scrutinized by a team of American and foreign scientists, the results were that the object: was of alien construction; built of a material impervious to seemingly everything; non-radioactive; held an opalescent sheen when viewed under direct light; and weighed 21 grams. In essence, almost no more than was known back at the Miko-Wolfe Brick Quarry.
Towards the end of June, the craft was moved to Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL) in Los Alamos, New Mexico, for further analysis. There, on Monday, July 9th at 1 p.m., something finally happened. While being studied for any sign of magnetic anomalies, the craft opened like a Silly Putty container. But what lay within was far more interesting than putty. A being, humanoid in appearance, stepped out. It was a textbook alien: small mouth, nose and ears; long fingers and toes; hairless; short-statured; and with chocolate dot eyes. It had pale yellow skin, and wore a form-fitting copper-colored body suit. As technicians fell over one another trying to find the exit, the alien simply stood motionless about a foot away from the pod. Looking around the room, it suddenly said, "You may call me 68L, a Rands, and I'm here to pass judgment on my work. No one understood what it was talking about, though every word was being recorded."
Military personnel quickly replaced lab techs. They were armed, ready for any sign or act of aggression on the part of 68L.
"Though I was physically buried," the alien went on (oblivious to the soldiers at the ready), "my mind has periodically wandered this blue orb. That's how I know your languages. I've watched your civilizations come and go. For you see, you are all my children. Upon my arrival on earth more than 87,000 of your years ago, I chose your ancestors to conquer the planet; and they did! We Rands travel about the universe looking for promising species to help; to join the greater galactic brotherhood. I accomplished this by not giving your kind any extra physical and/or psychological gifts, but by culling the competition. Haven't you ever wondered what happened to the Neanderthals?" When no one spoke, the alien continued, "Having accomplished my task, I came to rest on this continent, where there was none of your kind, yet. I went into hibernation, and have only now been stirred by the Rands to take stock of my efforts. Again without response, the strange being appeared to become testy when it queried, Who speaks for homo sapiens?"
Two men stepped forward. The taller one spoke first saying, "My name's Colonel Oliver Cannell, United States Army. With me here is Terrance Bodenheimer, of the State Department. For the moment, I suppose we do."
"Splendid," 68L " said, "we both have much to do before judgment day."
"Judgment day?" asked Mr. Bodenheimer.
"Why, yes," the alien replied. "Two of your days from now I must decide if humanity has lived up to the Rand's expectations."
"And if not?" the State Department representative asked.
"Then," the alien responded matter-of-factly, the only alternative is death.
"Isn't that rather drastic?" countered Terrance Bodenheimer.
"No," answered 68L, "it's the way of the Rands; the way it has been and always will be."
Colonel Cannell, clearing his throat before speaking, inquired, And what gives you the right to pass judgment over humanity?
"Actually," the alien countered, "it's more whothan what. But without the Rands, you probably wouldn't even be here to ask me that question. No, its pointless to debate the issue; in 48 hours I must act as humanity's judge and jury."
At that, the yellow-skinned visitor turned as though it was about to re-enter the ship. It took a few steps in the direction of the craft, glanced back and said, "I wish to speak to Tanya Wolfe and Perry Balkin as soon as possible. Could you make the necessary arrangements?"
Before Bodenheimer could reply, Colonel Cannell responded, "We'd like to accommodate you in any way we can. However, you appear to be ending our conversation, and there's still much to discuss."
"Thank you, Colonel," the alien said, "but I must leave you now for three of your hours. We'll speak again, then. Please have Tanya and Perry here when I return. Goodbye."
68L bounded into the spheroid. The two halves came together as one, forming a flawless seal.
With nothing left to do except report back to Washington, as well as to find the geologist and paleontologist, Colonel Cannell and Terrance Bodenheimer left the lab. The soldiers remained, while a few of the braver scientists returned to complete their work.
As the hours passed, additional representatives of the state and national governments came flooding into Los Alamos. This was becoming, without a doubt, the greatest show on earth.
At exactly 4:24 p.m., the egg opened, and the alien jumped out. Standing there waiting to greet it were Colonel Cannell, Terrance Bodenheimer, Tanya Wolfe and Perry Balkin. 68L nodded to the Colonel in a demonstration of thanks for having acquiesced to its request.
"If you please," the Colonel began, "I'd like to pick up where we left off.Before that," the alien said, "I'd like to meet my guests."
The representative of the Rands spoke privately to both Tanya and Perry, sharing with each, amongst other things, a mutual interest in sci fi cinema. Following introductions, 68L turned its attention to Oliver Cannell, asking, "What is it you'd like to know?"
"You stated earlier you were going to be humanity's judge and jury," the Colonel began. "My superiors in Washington would like to know, firstly, exactly what youre judging; secondly, what, if anything, can be done to influence your decision; and lastly, if you should rule against us, do you have the ability to carry out your threat of death?" The yellow-skinned visitor turned to Tanya and Perry, then remarked, Remember what Klatu did to make people believe him? Should I do likewise?
Perry answered, "If you're truly capable of it, I dont see why not."
Dr. Wolfe smiled in agreement. Few others in the room 'got it.'
"Very well, then," the alien said, at 8 tonight, Mountain Savings Time, electricity all over the world will cease for one hour…with, of course, a few exceptions.
Terrance Bodenheimer had an idea of what was to come. Colonel Cannell, not having the faintest clue as to what was going to happen, was briefed by Dr. Balkin.
"That," the Colonel said, "would certainly answer my last query; but what of the other two?"
68L paused before replying, "The Rands judge civilizations on their ability to add to the greater galactic consciousness. I was assigned to earth; given the directive to nurture any life form I felt could eventually meet that goal. You were my choice, you and everyone everywhere. As for swaying my decision, you're more than welcome to argue the merits of mankind. You have until Wednesday at 1 p.m. before I pass final judgment."
"I'm a practical man," Mr. Bodenheimer stated bluntly, "and I've spent a lifetime dealing with the realities of this world; be they socioeconomic, geopolitical and/or scientific. Though I'm incensed by the callous manner in which the Rands deal with other, less advanced beings, I realize weve no choice in the matter. I know that even before tonights demonstration of power, you're not bluffing. But understand this…should you decide against us, well do anything and everything possible to prevent you from carrying out your threat. We're a more resilient species than I believe you give us credit for."
"I appreciate your candor," the extraterrestrial responded, "However, I don't make threats. But let's not dwell on that now; there's still time."
"So be it," Bodenheimer answered. "This coming Wednesday, the 11, at noon, we'll present testimony on the value of mankind. God willing it be sufficient. In the meantime, I must ask that you remain here, both for your safety and ours." The State Department representative became silent, walked over to a table to take a sip of water, and continued, "And there's another matter. There are many important people from all over the world whove come here to speak with you, if your'e willing."
"That would be acceptable," 68L said. "I'm anxious to meet others of your kind."
And so, without pause, the visitor from space met with individuals and groups from all walks of life and from every continent. The alien retained the services of Tanya and Perry to act as middle-men to facilitate communication between it and its human guests.
As 8 p.m. rolled around, as promised, electricity ceased all over the planet (albeit the exceptions noted in the film The Day the Earth Stood Still). At exactly 9 p.m., everything returned to normal. Point made.
68L, requiring no rest, continued its non-stop question and answer sessions. It's purpose in coming to earth was soon made public. That knowledge stirred a global pandemic of riots and religious fanaticism. It also stirred anger. Certain powerful governments, other than the United States, were planning to take matters into their own hands and make a pre-emptive strike against the alien. The United States, for its part, told everyone to basically butt out. However, unbeknownst to most Americans, nuclear devices had been installed under many government facilities deemed sensitiveto the national interest, including LANL. If push came to shove, said devices could be activated, effectively eliminating the lab and the City of Los Alamos.
All of this and more was taking place 'behind the scenes.' However, for all of mankinds attempts at secrecy, nothing escaped the mind of 68L.
Philosophers, scientists, historians, religious leaders, musicians and advertising executives from myriad countries were amassed in New York City, putting together a multi-media presentation on homo sapiensworthiness.
For many people, Tuesday, July 10th, was either the longest or shortest day of their lives. Far from the idyllic seashore scenes in the movie On The Beach, it wasn't safe to be outdoors. Lawlessness was rampant, and the authorities had a difficult time keeping up with those engaged in criminal activities. Most cities had enforced curfews on their citizenry. The majority of people stayed home with family and friends to await the extraterrestrials pronouncement.
By Thursday noon, almost all New Mexicans residing within 50 miles of LANL had been evacuated. This area not only included Los Alamos, but the cities of Santa Fe and Chimayo as well. All had been reduced to ghost towns.
The team assigned to argue humanity's case before 68L had arrived by helicopter two hours prior to the presentation. A large auditorium had been selected for the event. The proceedings would be carried by all the networks.
At 11 a.m., the alien concluded its meetings. Tanya and Perry, having completed their duty as 'go-betweens' (sans sleep for 24 hours), were asked by 68L if they wouldnt mind staying on awhile longer. Both agreed to remain until the end, whatever that end might be.
The thermonuclear device sitting under the primary lab had been brought on-line, awaiting the Presidential green lightfor detonation. Considered by the Joint Chiefs to be an option of 'last resort,' it was a viable one, nonetheless.
At exactly noon, employees of the prestigious Manhattan advertising firm of Isler, Dobbs Jethanandani and May began their hour-long program. In attendance were: 16 members of said team, Colonel Cannell, Terrance Bodenheimer, Tanya Wolfe, Perry Balkin, 138 media representatives, 55 military personnel, a handful of Congressmen and women, 45 LANL workers, and 68L. The alien sat in a chair approximately ten feet away from those chosen to extol the praises of Homo Sapiens. The tension in the room was palpable.
The presentation, from start to finish, was flawless, taking precisely 51 minutes 38 seconds to complete. It included literally everything: holographic displays, laser lights, original theme music and more. The only things missing were the Radio City Music Hall Rockettes; and their inclusion had been considered.
When all was said and done, the yellow-skinned visitor (presenting a flat affect) stood to face the cameras. The whole world was watching.
"Thank you," 68L said, "You've provided me with a most impressive argument on the positives of man. However..."
As soon as the alien uttered that word, the nuclear contingency was put into motion. Codes were exchanged and confirmed, keys were turned, and a black attaché case was opened in front of the President. Inside were a conspicuous red button, small microphone and video monitor. On the receiving end was a soldier in the Midwest, deep underground, who would trigger the bombs firing mechanism. The President and his aides began to pray.
"However," 68L went on, "the Randscriterion for such cases is explicit and time-honored. As my people's representative on earth, I'm empowered to make the final life or death decision. Though your species has developed over the course of millennia, there appears to exist much discord amongst you; much anger. I'd hoped for more compassion, and less ignorance. Take, for example, what's happening below us at this very moment. Many in the audience looked down, oblivious to the armed bomb beneath them; all then stared at the speaker in bewilderment. "Homo Sapiens," the alien said with regret, "have simply not met the developmental criteria established by the Rands. My decision, therefore, is death."
As 68L completed his sentence: Tanya Wolfe and Perry Balkin embraced, a sniper waited for the order take the shot,billions of human's found billions of ways to meet their end, and the President of the United States placed his right thumb on the button; yet hesitated. And in that moment of hesitation, something unexpected occurred.
The extraterrestrials pigmentation changed from yellow to mottled gray, and its chocolate dot eyes turned white. It then appeared to lose its balance, and fell limp to the floor, a motionless rag doll. Just down the hallway, the prolate spheroid collapsed in upon itself, shriveling to mere nothingness.
Perry rushed over to check on the alien. Though unsure of exactly what to check on, he was fairly certain 68L was dead. The populace of the world took a collective sigh of relief. Everyone had been wiredfor the past 48 hours, and suddenly it was over. The jubilation that followed caused as much damage as the previous daysdisplays of anarchic behavior.
In reality, it wasn't humanitys death that the Randsrepresentative had spoken of, but its own. Man, the eternal egotist, had assumed it was he who was threatened. And that erroneous assumption had cost many lives, and the breakdown of social order everywhere.
Meanwhile, at Los Alamos National Laboratory, soldiers were removing the alien and what remained of its craft. As the last military truck drove out the main gate, Tanya looked over at Perry and inquired, "Why did it call itself 68L?"
"I don't know," he answered quizzically, "I don't think anyone ever bothered to ask; guess it was just an oversight on our part."
"Yes," she responded, one of many.
Stepping outside the complex, the pair walked arm in arm past a stand of Juniper trees. Looking over at his silent friend, Balkin speculated aloud, "Let me guess, Carrington's lament over Marshall Dillons saucer blowing up in the arctic, right?"
Wolfe, forcing a smile, replied, "A new science gone; gone forever."
"That's what I thought," he said, "acknowledging her perspicacity."
They continued on for a long time, oblivious to the growing chill, the smell of electricity in the air, and a black thundercloud advancing across the distant mesa."
