Something, a bag perhaps, was handed over. The bearer of the object hastily stepping away, the sound of the persons squeaking shoes hinting that they were moving fast and far away from us. This man/beast was outnumbered, yet it seemed as if he held sway over us. I didn’t believe my presence as his hostage had any effect. For the good of our people they should have sacrificed me to save us all.

He had what he wanted; his belongings returned to him. This would have been the opportune time to release me, allow me to go back to my world. But no, it wasn’t going to be that simple.

Pulled out from the wall to stand in front of him, my back now pressed to his front, one arm squeezing my middle, he shoved a heavy leather bag into my unsuspecting clutches. I held tight, not even looking down to see what I was holding. But I assumed it was a duffel bag of sorts, naturally made and not one of our designs. It smelled strange, musky and wild, very much like the being standing so close behind me.

Now I could see everything that I had missed during my concealment behind this creature. Those in the room, the five physicians and others I hadn’t seen or noticed before had positioned themselves about the room, aiming weapons, directing their focus directly at myself and my abductor behind me. My death was imminent, either by the friendly fire of my people or at the hands that held me captive.

Zeke entered slowly into the room, using the connecting door I had used earlier, his own weapon raised high, aiming not at me, but just above my head. His face looked pinched. I could see his stress, the sheen of glistening moisture on his smooth forehead. His arm never wavered and he refused to look me in the eyes.

“Let her go and we’ll release you from our custody. I’ll take you to our borders myself and allow you to return to your world.” He spoke with his most sincere and charming voice, hoping to sway the mind of this unknown enemy. “Just allow me to take her from you. No one wishes you harm.”