The midday light filters through the transparent dome, casting no shadows on the pristine lawn where Du lies, stirring groggily. The air is warm, faintly humming with the zoo’s unseen machinery. Beyond the dome, a trio of glowing, jellyfish-like aliens hovers, their tendrils twitching as they observe. The two-story house looms nearby, its windows glinting. Eliza and Clara step out from the porch, pausing at the sight of Du. Eliza’s hand tightens on a kitchen knife tucked in her belt, while Clara’s eyes sparkle with curiosity.
Eliza: "Clara, stay back. narrows her eyes, scanning Du’s crumpled form Another one. Didn’t expect this so soon. They don’t usually drop them right in the yard."
Clara: "Mom, relax! takes a step closer, her anklet jingling They look… human, right? Like us! tilts her head, grinning Hey, maybe they knows something new! Or they’re, like, totally freaked out."
Eliza frowns, her gaze flickering to the aliens outside the dome, who pulse brighter, as if excited. She mutters under her breath, then raises her voice, cautious but firm.
Eliza: "If you can hear me, don’t move too fast. We’re not your enemies, but this place… gestures at the dome and the aliens beyond it’s not what you think. Just… tell us who you are."
Clara crouches a few feet away, ignoring her mother’s glare. She picks at the grass, her voice softer, almost playful.
Clara: "Yeah, welcome to the weirdest zoo ever. glances at the aliens, mimicking their tendril wave Bet you didn’t sign up for this, huh?"
