The hyper-kernel checks its message queue on a high-priority basis. When the hyper-kernel receives a message from the node it contacted (i.e., the “first contacted node”), in some embodiments, one of two responses will be received. The response might indicate that the first contacted node has the needed resource (and provide the resource). Alternatively, the message might indicate that the contacted node no longer has the resource (e.g., because the node provided the resource to a different node). In the latter situation, the first contacted node will provide the identity of the node to which it sent the resource (i.e., the “second node”), and the hyper-kernel can send a second message requesting the resource—this time to the second node. In various embodiments, if the second node reports to the hyper-kernel that it too no longer has the resource (e.g., has provided it to a third node), the hyper-kernel may opt to send the continuation to the third node, rather than continuing to request the resource. Other thresholds can be used in determining whether to send the continuation or continuing the resource (e.g., four attempts). Further, a variety of criteria can be used in determining whether to request the resource or send the continuation (e.g., in accordance with a cost function).