When Andromeda finally returned to Gaia in Phineus’ warp-yacht she told Perseus of Phineus’ plans. She had learned that Phineus had surveyed the planet and discovered a vast deposit of condominium. Condominium was the name given to a newly discovered element with a huge atomic weight, yet quite stable. It was thought to be extremely rare in the universe and was a significant energy resource. Apparently, Phineus had done some calculations and had found that there was enough condominium to open a permanent worm hole between the new solar system and that of Earth. All he had to do was to mine it and get it into a suitable orbit.

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This was shocking news: this could mean the end of the paradise enjoyed by the Pilgrim Mothers and Fathers. But there was worse news yet: the condominium deposit was located directly below the largest griffoid colony on the Gaia. (Griffoids were strange winged creatures, very friendly to humans and happy to share their milk and down with them in exchange for goes on their Virtual Playstations. Griffoid milk made excellent cheese, by the way.)

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As it happened, Andromeda was by far the best at communicating with the griffoids and so it was decided that she would be the one to go and tell them of Phineus’ plan and warn them that they may have to move their colony to another site. She set off, with her sonic harp under her arm, to talk to the griffoids: