A Little Blood — Zoe Cannon

We came in peace. The humans wanted war.We were a small research ship. We didn't know how to fight. The humans didn't care. They killed all the others. All but me.Now they say they've seen the error of their ways. As if their apologies can make up for what they've done.They want me to get up on stage and give a speech about intergalactic unity and peace. I'm playing along... for now.I have a plan. All I need is the right moment.But making a plan is easier than changing my heart. And all my heart has ever wanted is peace.This short story is 5100 words long. It can also be found in Mortal Creatures, a collection of stories about grief and magic.