"Indeed, we have made mistakes, but destruction is not the way to solve the problem."
The Commander's voice remained as calm as possible, but his heart was turbulent.
"We are willing to learn, willing to listen, willing to understand. If you are willing, we can be friends."
A strange glint flashed in the High Priest's eyes.
Was it interest in this proposal?
Or disdain for this weak human species?
No one could tell.
It fell silent once more, then slowly stepped down from the altar, each step leaving a deep mark in the sediment of ocean time.
"Friends?"
The High Priest's voice carried a peculiar rhythm, as if mocking the impotence of this word.
"Is not human history a history of betrayal and deceit? How can you prove that you will not betray us again?"
"From the perspective of your human history, the only lesson you have learned is to never learn from history."
