Metafire

"So, Major, how should we proceed to regain control? The Metafire people in space have now committed a clear criminal act. Furthermore, it is pretty obvious that they are conspiring together."

"I don't know, John. I know Metafire is completely off line now. No Internet traffic is being permitted. I also know that the space borne groups were principally responsible for the software and software support for the Metafire products. This is almost like mid-eastern oil. We are hostage to a group that produces kick-ass software that nobody else seems to understand."

Ferguson spoke, "The situation is unravelling pretty badly. I will get on the line to my supervisor. I think I want permission to use force against the Metafire capsules."

Ferguson's call to his supervisor was short. He was ordered to Washington immediately. A National Security team was being formed to deal with the problem. The Major made a call to the White House and was given similar orders.

"Major, how fast can we get there?"

"I have a jet standing by. We can be there in three hours out of Los Alamos."