In contrast, humanity somehow missed developing gravity technology and advanced further technologically. However, adopting the technology allowing for interstellar travel (and wars of conquest on a galactic scale) stifles further technological development as all the creative energies of societies that find it go into perfecting it. This enabled them to engage in wars of conquest on a galactic scale. When they are interrogated, the truth becomes evident: the method of manipulating gravity is absurdly simple, and species like the Roxolani are thus able to use faster than light travel with relatively primitive technological sophistication. The battle is short, and most of the invaders are killed. Humans retaliate with automatic weapons and missiles. But as they begin their assault, things take a turn for the absurd-the Roxolani attack with matchlock weapons and black powder explosives. Humanity is awed by the invaders, as the maneuverability granted by that technology suggests the rest of their civilization is equally impressive. The Roxolani anticipate a simple and rewarding campaign, as they can detect no use of gravity manipulation, the cornerstone of their civilization. During a routine journey of conquest, they happen upon Earth. The story is told through limited third person point of view, with most of the story concerning a single Roxolani captain, Togram. Turtledove wrote a sequel, a short story entitled 'Herbig-Haro'.

'The Road Not Taken' is a science fiction short story by American writer Harry Turtledove, set in 2039, in which he presents a fictitious account of a first encounter between humanity and an alien race, the Roxolani. 1985 short story by Harry Turtledove 'The Road Not Taken'

The road not taken