In the Neutral Zone, the Narada brings in Spock's ship with a tractor beam. Spock shuts down his engines, realizing that resistance would be illogical. His cargo, the red matter, is too dangerous for him to risk an armed confrontation. Spock leaves his ship and meets Nero, who asks him to kneel. When Spock does not do so he is struck on the mouth, drawing blood. Nero repeats the command to kneel, extruding the blades from his staff, and Spock obeys.