“Yes.”
But that was getting ahead of things. “How will the humans react to our existence?”
“That is uncertain. While many Earthlings believe there is other life in the universe, fictional plays and literature have many convinced that such meetings will result in violence.”
“Fiction isn’t reality,” he pointed out.
“True. However, an analysis of human history shows numerous conflicts based on the differences of skin color, culture, and even religion. There is a strong possibility they will react negatively to the Xamian presence.”
“Meaning we need to be cautious in how we present ourselves.” He tapped his fingers on the console. “Beta, what would happen if I or Jaspar were to introduce ourselves to the leaders beforehand?” Surely if they gained the approval of a head of state, that would ease their introduction with the populace.
“Arranging a meeting could prove difficult.”
“Not if you beamed us into their presence.”
“Not recommended. Most likely you would be executed the moment you appeared.”
His brows rose. “Without even a chance to discourse?”
“Humans take the security of their governing heads seriously.”
“In that case, how would one treaty with them? Could we open a channel of communication beforehand that would establish our peaceful intent?”
“That is an option with some modicum of success. However, even with a promise of safe passage for a meeting, there exists a possibility they would agree simply to gain access and sequester you for questioning and testing.”
“Testing of what?”
“Everything,” Beta’s simple reply. “Previous incursions by other species led to them being dissected.”
Not a promising outcome, but he could also understand the Earthlings’ caution. Look at what had been done to the Xamian females by an enemy race. A race they’d eradicated in revenge.
“How can we accomplish our mission without starting a war?”
“I don’t have the answer to that question.”
That wasn’t helpful. They’d have to be very careful, not Cade’s usual mode of operation. Hence why he sought out Jaspar. He found the other male in the training room, running in place.
Cade dove right into the dilemma. “As you are aware, we cannot create a conduit for bond mates without revealing our presence to the humans. However, in doing so, we run the risk of them seeing us as a threat and the Earthlings attempting to eliminate us.”
“I’m aware.”
“You are?” Cade blurted out. “Why didn’t you mention this?”
“Because it seemed obvious.”
“How do we overcome it?”
Jaspar stopped his run. “By convincing them we are peaceful allies.”
“You forgot the how part.”
“Because I haven’t thought of one yet, although I do have a few ideas.”
“Such as?”
“Trade. We can offer knowledge and technology to the humans to appease them.”
“We aren’t supposed to do that with cultures that haven’t yet managed to travel outside their galaxies.” Part of letting them evolve on their own.
