It's a good question, and one that Jim was expecting. "Then it depends on how advanced they are. If they haven't discovered warp drive yet, or some other kinda faster-than-light space travel, we're not allowed to let the natives know we exist so we don't 'interfere with their cultural development.'" There's practically air quotes around that last bit, parroted straight out of Starfleet regulations somewhere. "If they've got space travel though, we get to say hi and see if they're interested in trade agreements and stuff like that, 'cuz they're going to come across us sooner or later anyway."

Zunar wriggles a little under Steve's hand, paws flailing skyward as the kneazle flips over on his back so those gentle pets fall on the soft underside of his chin, purring even louder. You can't feel bad while petting a kitty, Steve, them's the rules.

Jim just nods once, the sentiment an unfortunately familiar one, and something he's not very inclined to pry deeper about. Not unless he thought it'd do either of them some good, anyway.