Only a few months ago the Treecuu would have engaged and destroyed any ship entering its space, and then have the nation of origin apologise for the intrusion, and after that, maybe have a peaceful dialogue. The new foreign policy following the annexation of the Aryyt't homeworld and the possible international outrage was a radical change. Now the Treecuu should try and make new friends.

Captain Tuuc wasn't satisfied with his new role as a stand-in diplomat. But there was nothing in the new protocol which forbid him to don his tactical vest and leg holstered sidearm. A squad of eight soldiers equipped with the latest rifles accompanied him in the shuttle too. He was after all an officer of the Remote Fleet, the shield and sword of the Empire!

The shuttle approached hangar bay 2 at a seemingly reckless speed, only braking at the very last minute. It was important to show that this was Treecuu space, and that they did as they pleased. After having landed Tuuc was tempted to let the aliens wait for a while, but seeing the full military honours they had prepared he quickly changed his mind. He ordered the squad to exit the shuttle, form a line facing the king, and stand at attention. He then climbed out and stood in front of his soldiers, also facing the King. He waited.