The aliens arrived in 2034.
We blasted them out of the sky just as they were starting to explain how delighted they were to meet us. It was only later after analysing the wreckage that we realised they were not only peaceful but had no knowledge of weapons or warfare.
It was the catalyst for change. Three centuries later we were just like them. We had learned our lesson.
To our delight we saw the aliens returning in 2335. We prepared a great celebration and made ready to apologise.
They blasted the planet to pieces.
They had learned their lesson.
Author’s Note: I’m pretty sure we would react to the first encounter like this. I’m not so sure we would have changed though by the time of the second encounter.
Ouch! You really nailed this one. Delightful!
There are so many stories of an “evil” alien race attacking Earth. It’s an interesting thought that maybe we are the “evil” ones.