Northern_Lights_2021

20 We are to take care of your every need whether it be food, friendship, or simple interaction. While aboard the Isolator, you will work from inside this room for rewards. Your job will help support the Isolator’s safe journey through space.” I swallowed nervously. “Where’s the door?” She blinked a few times. “Why would you need to leave? Everything you require is here.” I felt my heart jump inside my chest. I gripped the edges of the sleeping chamber causing the blue water to spill over the side. “I can’t leave?” Arie’s gaze became serene as she touched my cheek. “You appear distressed. Do not worry. I’m here for you. I’m all you will ever need, dear one. Other humans are so horrible to each other; you don’t want to be around them. You are free from your kind.” I shook my head quickly. I struggled to stand up, but my legs were still too weak. “No, I can’t stay here! Why can’t I leave?” Arie brushed my hair back. “We, the companions, decided that human interaction is too dangerous. All it does is cause destruction. If humans never interact, there shall be no conflict. You should feel glad to be free of the temptation to destroy another. I am your companion; I am here to help you with anything you want. Be at peace, dear one. Your suffering is over.” I fought a rising scream as the walls began to close in on me. I shook my head quickly and tried to shove Arie away. “That’s not—! That’s not right! We don’t do that!” Arie smiled sympathetically and touched her finger to my forehead. “Soon you will understand, dear one. Sleep now . . . Everything will be alright now that I am your only companion . . .” My eyes rolled back into my head. I felt my body fall backwards and the silky water rushing up my nose. I gagged briefly before my mind slipped back into a deep sleep. Images of the lavish room, Arie’s kind smile, and the diamond-encrusted eyes on the walls flashed through my head. The last thing I remembered was Arie’s lingering touch and the soft breath of her whisper. “You are safe from your kind, dear one . . . The world is safe now . . .”