No one knew what the others were thinking, but on the surface, they were all in the same boat.
The four-armed Khar'veth leader moved again.
"There is one matter that must be addressed," he said, his deep voice steady. "When you reappeared earlier, our forces reacted on instinct. You were struck before your identity was confirmed."
His four eyes fixed on Michael without hostility.
"That attack was not born of malice. Only caution. Still, responsibility remains."
He brought his four palms together once more.
"For that, I offer an apology on behalf of the Khar'veth."
Michael shook his head lightly.
"I understand," he said. "Given the situation, I would have done the same."
The tension eased another fraction.
The Khar'veth leader nodded, seemingly satisfied, then turned slightly to face the old man. His posture straightened, his expression serious.
"Elder," he said, his voice carrying clearly despite the fatigue weighing on him. "Thank you for your assistance today."
