Metafire

But George had a more serious purpose. He contacted the Discovery crew and asked, "Would you consider joining us with a Russian capsule?"

The captain of the Discovery, Colonel Brown, was used to strange requests from the colonists and said in a distinterested fashion, "I assume you have studied the possibility."

"Yes, we have. We believe you can do it. The Russian capsules are small enough to fit inside Discovery with our capsule, and we think the capsules can be joined end to end. They will have to be welded together, but we understand that is something you can do." George said.

"Send us a detailed explanation." Colonel Brown now realized he should be concerned, but if these people could pay, he would be willing to entertain the idea. He decided he would let them know that he was concerned, "It'll cost you at least a quarter of million dollars, you know."

"That would be fine, sir." George decided to be polite.

Three days later, Colonel Brown messaged back a response that surprised George and the others in Metafire One, "Your joining with a Russian capsule has been approved, and your plans appear sound. Please designate your partner and have them contact us directly."