Alien invaders are usually assumed to be hostile conquerors. But what if they come as tourists, shoppers, benefactors? What would their impact be? They didn’t come to Earth until invited. They were scientists, diplomats, artists, merchants, and ordinary travelers from many Confedi worlds. They were respectful of Earth’s cultures and rules. Yet their beneficence was as disruptive as an invading armada.

How does our world cope with being thrust into this interstellar hubbub? Can our societies get prepared for this onslaught? How will those responsible for their arrival be regarded?