Watching the sky dim, Jake takes another swig from the bottle of lager he grabbed at work. As the head concierge, it had been a long day. He rubbed his sore feet from working at the Duke of Marlborough Hotel. Jake was not complaining. For two years, the hotel work has made him a good living. It allows him to take care of his widowed mother. They lost his dad from congestive heart failure a couple of years ago. A heartbreak that brought financial hardship as well. With a deep sigh, he sits on the fire escape just outside their apartment window. For many years his mum has worked as a maid. Since his dad’s passing, she has worked even longer hours to help make ends meet. Relaxed, he lays back against the metal stairs gazing at the peaceful night sky. Out of the corner of his eye, a shiny object streaks past.
Thinking it is a shooting star, he watches it slowly cascade to the south. In good humor, he thinks, ‘I should make a wish.’ He throws a wish into the universe with another swig from the bottle. ‘For his mum to have an easier life.’ Then thinks to himself. “Heck, make it two wishes. I want to find true love.” He thinks. Pish, ‘Yeah, like that’s going to happen.’
‘Click,’ and the front door unlocks. Jake’s mum has made it home. He ducks back inside the tiny two-bedroom apartment to greet her. It is a little place adorned with old faded yellow, red, and green floral wallpaper that is tattered and peeling in places. Along one wall is a small kitchen with an electric oven, stovetop, and a fridge that acts more like a low-grade chiller. It is small, but cheap and suits their needs. Standing in the small living room, she gives him a peck on the cheek.
“How was your day?” Jake asks.
“Eh, long, and you?”
“The same, oh, except Roger wants me to serve as a special concierge for some VIPs coming in this evening.”
“Oh?” Her eyes widen.
“Yeah, he says if all goes well, this could be my big chance for advancement into management.”
“That sounds promising.” She eyes him. “So, who is it, someone famous perhaps?”
“Don’t know, he would not say but mention they are Nordic.”
“Hmm, that’s interesting. We only have a few visitors from the Netherlands. So, what does Roger have you doing?”
“Benny, Gretta, and I are serving as special concierges. While they are staying at the hotel.”
Placing her hands on both sides of his face. She stares up at him. “That is great news. You deserve this chance.” Then pulls him towards her for another kiss on the cheek.
“Speaking of which, will you be okay for a few days? Roger wants us there 24/7. So, I will not be coming home during their stay. Will you be okay?”
“Hun, I will be fine.” She pats his broad shoulder. “It is good you are being noticed for your demanding work.”
“Thanks, we’ll see. Tonight, I made lamb and salad for dinner.”
“Yum, it smells delicious. I’ll get wash up.” She smiles up at him. “You spoil me.”
He looks into her tired, hollow eyes with sagging, deep dark bags. Touching his face with a slight smile. “Jake, I am so proud of you. Your dad would be too….” The smile fades from her face. He gives her a tight hug. “I love you, Mum.” Tears in his eyes, he frowns over her heartache as she gives a shallow smile. She turns to go freshen up before dinner. Jake sets the little two-person table on the odd occasion they can share a meal.
###
The silver craft spirals southward as it enters the Earth’s lower atmosphere speeding towards Antarctica. The Pleiadian ship reduces its antigravity engine to a hover in preparation to dock. This diplomatic mission has a three-person envoy onboard from the Intergalactic Council. An emergency summit with the humans is arranged to discuss the poor treatment of the Earth’s ecosystem and humankind.
Oska, the senior ambassador for the Pleiadian envoy, gives them final instructions. “Remember to prepare for the slight difference in atmospheric conditions as it can take a while to fully adjust to the change. Make sure you wear the earthling attire provided to you. Once we disembark, we head directly to the summit to give the high councils ruling over the deprivation of human life and nature. Any questions?”
Kol, ambassador for the Galactics, one of the Intergalactic Council factions and part of the Pleiadian envoy. Asks, “What if the humans do not take the demands seriously? Shouldn’t we show force to ensure their complete obedience?” Ahem, “I mean cooperation. As you know, they can be quite simple-minded. We should be prepared for such a need.”
Firmly, Oska says, “Kol, I know you have lived among them and know their destructive nature. However, we are not to interfere or persuade their decision. If they do not heed the warning, the Intergalactic Council will determine the outcome of their future on Earth.” Then sternly says, “Is that understood?”
“My apologies. I did not mean to suggest we do something without council approval.” He croaks darkly.
Astrid listened to their conversation. “I am sure they will take the council ruling without question.” She smiles, “Even simple beings understand eradication.”
Kol bows. “I meant no harm, your majesty. I am sure you are right.”
Once the ship docks, they are greeted by the United Nations diplomatic core. Ambassador Sylvie from France greets them. “Welcome to Earth. We are so grateful you are here. I am Sylvie, senior ambassador for the United Nations and G20 committee. We wish you welcome.”
Oska responds, “Thank you, Sylvie, for the warm welcome. We look forward to speaking with the world delegates.”
Sylvie smiles, “Certainly, this way to the summit, please.” The envoy proceeds down the long corridor cut out of rock. The base is one mile below the surface of Antarctica. The entire facility is cut out of stone. The rocky walls are smooth and melded together with the concrete floor. The vast lights illuminate the whole length of the corridor. Approaching the end of the passage are massive doors behind which the summit is to be held. Once inside, it opens to a spacious three-story high banquet room. Tables are placed facing the stage. Being a mile underground means the room uses artificial lighting, as no windows exist. A representative from each country and government takes their sit for the summit.
Sylvie then introduces the envoy. “Please give a warm welcome to our outer planetary guests. May I present, Oska, senior diplomatic leader for the Intergalactic Council; Kol, ambassador to the Galactic’s and a representative to the Council; Astrid, Pleiadian Princess and the heir apparent of the royal family.” The assembly roars with a standing ovation.
Once they settled down. Oska speaks, “Thank you, Sylvie, and welcome, citizens of Earth. We thank you for the warm greeting and look forward to discussing your future on Earth.” The attendees are shocked to silence by his words as they whisper among themselves.
###
Back at the Duke Hotel, as the New Zealand locals refer to it, find the concierge team in final preparations for the envoy’s arrival. Jake is assigned to Astrid’s room. He completes the finishing touches when Roger, the hotel manager, checks in with him.
“Jake, are we ready for our guests? It needs to be perfect.”
“Yes, sir, we have everything ready to go.”
“Very good. The envoy will be here soon. So, let’s ensure we are at our best.” After Roger’s final instructions, the envoy arrives at the hotel.
Before entering, Oska telepathically reminds the envoy. “Remember, we are from the Nordic part of this planet known as the Netherlands. If asked, this is your reply.” Then says, “Also, remain detached emotionally from the humans. They are known for being physically appealing and persuasively charming.” The envoy affirms his caution with smiles and nods as they enter.
Roger quickly moves forward to greet them. “Welcome to Duke of Marlborough Hotel. We are so glad you have chosen us to be your home away from home.”
Oska replies, “Thank you, Roger, for the warm greeting.” Looking at his entourage, he adds, “We have had a very long day of travel and meetings. Would you be so kind as to please show us to our rooms?”
“Certainly, Oska, let me introduce the staff who will serve as your concierges. Ahem, may I introduce Ben, your personal attendant. Kol, we have Gretta as your attendant. Astrid, this is Jake, who will serve as your attendant. They are at your disposal for the duration of your stay.”
“Thank you, Roger, for following our every instruction.”
Jake stares wild-eyed at Astrid, nearly forgetting to swallow as his tongue thickens in his throat. Unable to stop staring at the goddess before him. Undaunted, he gazes upon her form. She is wearing a modern renaissance off-the-shoulder halter top trumpet long sleeves dress with floral white, purple, and ruby red accents. The open halter offers an exquisite view of her luscious neck and collarbone. Her tall, slender, curvy athletic body is like something from Vogue magazine. Her beautiful straight blond hair curls just below the shoulders. Mesmerized, Jake’s attention focuses on her seductively piercing blue eyes. She holds him captive until their eyes connect. Realizing she caught him gaping at her, his face turned beet red. Now embarrassed over his inappropriate gawking.
Astrid smiles, telepathically amused by his seductive thoughts. It catches her off guard as his carnal pictures make her cheeks flush. Now excited and intrigued by him, she is most pleased he will take care of her during their stay.
Lifting her gaze at him. Whispers, “Very nice to meet you, Jake.”
“The pleasure is all mine, Astrid.” Ahem, “Please, right this way, to your room.”
Giddy, Jake attempts to open her door. “Uhm. Just one moment…sorry.” He shakes while fumbling with the suite door. She covers her mouth to hide the giggling. Red-faced, he finally pushes the door open. “S – sorry about that.”
Watching him, she responds, “Not at all, thank you.”
She sways past him filling his head with her alluring fragrance. A deep inhale of her scent fogs his mind with the smell of wild honeysuckle. As Astrid tingles with the sensation of seduction in his mind. Saying to herself, ‘I have never had such an attraction to anyone, little less a human.’
The room décor is in the 18th-century old French style, adorned with a brass framed bed and feather mattress, metal bedstand tables with white marble tops, and a beautiful white leaf chandler with five transparent crystal light globes. The walls are whitewashed, paneling up to the chair rail, then parlor-style wallpaper to the ceiling. Best of all is the full-size white acrylic clawfoot bathtub in the ensuite.
Astrid senses his deep desire for her. Odder, yet she feels a similar attraction for him. Watching him scurry around, she wonders why. Could it be his handsome, chiseled features and rich woodsy scent that enamors her? In the seclusion of her room, she observes him closer. His broad chest, muscular shoulders, and taut derriere. She watches the flex of his hard body, flat stomach, and striking bright hazel green eyes…although not fully aware of human mating rituals, she marvels over his attributes… ‘Mmm, so much to ogle over.’ She tries to suppress her urges, unable to withstand his thoughts.
Her stomach flutters. “Ooh.”
“Astrid, are you alright…Astrid?” He asks as she lightly bites her bottom lip, still mindlessly gazing at him. As a heated flush of desire comes over her. Now frustrated over the lack of control of her senses, she becomes extremely hot.
She moans, “Ahh…ooh, I am sorry.” Rubbing her neck. “It is just a bit too warm in here.” Jake notices the red blotches on her skin and mistakes it for overheating. He quickly lowers the thermostat to cool the room.
Turning his attention back to Astrid. “I have reduced the temperature. It should be more comfortable for you soon.” Amused by his quick response to satisfy her, all the while knowing it is the heat from within that truly needs cooling. Still, the inability to control her facilities for such a lowly being has her rattled.
Ahem, “Okay, well, if you have no further needs. I’ll be off. Astrid, have a good night’s sleep.” With the temperature dropping, she regains control of her senses. Not wishing him to leave yet, she devises to prolong his stay with a final request.
“Thank you, Jake. Before leaving, would you please run a bath for me?”
Jake swallows hard as he looks away to hide his excitement. The thought of her in the bath unravels him. He replies, “Of course, my lady, it would be my pleasure.” Unable to keep from imagining her lying nude in a bubble bath.
His new thoughts cause her to shudder. She responds, ‘Mumm … ooh, the effects from his wonderful thoughts….’ As he turns to make the bath, she bites hard on her lower lip holding the bed railing for stability as her breathing becomes labored. Spontaneously, she decided to do something uncharacteristically bold in her emotional frenzy.
Turning off the bath water, Jake reenters the bedroom. “Well, I will see you in the morning, Astrid. I wish you a pleasant ev – en – ing.” He freezes as she stands before him, dressed only in a sheer gown. His heart thumps hard against his chest, and his palms become sweaty with desire. Astrid stands before him in the sheerest see-through nightgown he has ever seen. Giving him the most lushes, uninhibited view of her. He coos, captivated by the essence of her temptation, as her fragrance again fills his nostrils. Transfixed staring at her.
She whispers, “Thank you, I am sure my evening will be quite pleasurable.”
Surprised by her sexual prowess, she spasms delightfully upon capturing his thoughts of carnal desire. She moans, “G – good night, Jake; I – I wish you pleasant dreams.” In desperation makes her way to the tub.
Head spinning, he gasps for a breath. The loss of coordination makes him fumble around, desperate to find the door. Finally, placing his hand on the doorknob. He replies, “Good night, Astrid.” Then quickly departs, shutting the door behind him.
Daze, he staggers back to his quarters. Did that happen? In shock, he could barely control the urge to reach out and grasp her. Jake is spellbound by the sudden devouring fascination. Over the years, working at the hotel, he has encountered many beautiful women. Why is he reacting differently toward her? It is as though she has bewitched him. The imprint of her exposed body lingers in his mind, releasing an uncontrollable quiver. Her essence was so thick in the air, like sweet nectar for the tasting. He considers if she is trying to seduce him or if it is just her nature to be so sensuous. Augh, I must remember my place. It would be so easy to jeopardize my job for this woman. Shutting the door behind him, leans against it, recalling her intoxicating beauty. This is maddening. He must reframe from his impulses. I must…
Astrid lies in the bath. Jake still swirling in her mind. She smiles, knowing how unusual this is for a Pleiadian to feel sensually towards another species. Human nature is so carnal and physical yet so psychologically appealing. Astrid giggles over the look on his face before leaving her room. His cute bashful nature and ruggedly handsome features enthrall her emotions and muster a rare carnal appetite she has never experienced. Raising her leg out of the water tracing it with her fingers, fantasizing over what his touch must feel like, causes a spasm…mmm. Astrid now knows, despite Oska’s warning, she wants him. A primal craving overcomes her senses. A sensual growl comes from deep within. She decides to lure him further into her clutches, like a lioness trapping her prey. Knowing his thoughts will give her the advantage needed to seduce him.
###
The morning brings the dawn of a new day. Jake knocks and then quietly enters Astrid’s room. The room is dark except for the sunlight filtering out around the edges of the window shades. He watches her sleeping majestically as the light in the room is just enough to see her features. The sheet partially covering her gives a generous sight of her thigh down those smooth-toned legs to her beautifully sculptured feet. In anguish, desperately wanting to run his fingers along her silky soft legs. Recognizing her scent causes deep, unbearable arousal within him. It takes sheer willpower to contain himself. A sudden movement startles him back to reality. Quickly moving towards the window, he raises shade allowing the sunlight to fully breach the entire room. As the morning light shines through, Astrid sits up with a stretch. Still wearing the sheer gown from last night looks toward the window. There she sees Jake’s silhouette watching her with an angelic smile. She smirks as his thoughts have given him away before entering her room.
Jake coos, “Good morning, Astrid. I hope you slept well last night.”
“Mmm…good morning. I slept very well.”
A tap at the door lets Jake know her breakfast has arrived. She slowly sashays towards the bathroom, not to go unnoticed by him. While she freshens up, Jake prepares her breakfast. During the meal, she peers at him with a seductive eye. Again, it does not go unnoticed as he stares longingly back at her.
In a deep husky voice, he says, “Well, I hope you have a wonderful day at the summit.” Rising to her feet, she watches him as he escorts her to the suite entrance. Leaving, she leans in and gives him a peck on the cheek. Smelling her scent sends shivers of delight through his body. Lightly drawing her lips to his ear. In a sultry voice, she says, “Not as pleasurable as this evening will be.” Stunned by her alluring proposition, she kisses him lightly on the lips. He melts in delight over the prospects for the evening. Watching her, he knows this woman has shaken him to the core. Jake could hardly wait for dusk in anticipation of Astrid’s return.
Finally, just after sunset, the envoy arrives back at the hotel. Astrid and Oska seem pleased with the progress in today’s summit proceedings, deep in conversation entering the lobby. Jake waits with the other concierge until Astrid gazes at him. The edges of her mouth curl into a smile. She quickly finishes the discussion with Oska and turns her attention to Jake. Nervously, he holds the room door open for her. Astrid nods, brushing past him in silence. Her lingering fragrance catches his breath. Reading him, she smiles, knowing he is now at her mercy.
Trying to remain professional, he croaks, “Welcome back, Astrid. I hope the summit went well today.” Focused on her, a fire wants to explode out of him. But knowing his place, he suppresses his emotions. Astonished over her interest in someone like him. Closing the door, he watches as she turns around to disrobe. He grunts as an urge of pleasure moves through his body. How long can he control himself in the presents of such a radiant creature? It is excruciating for him. Still, with her back to him, she seductively puts on the sheer nightgown from the night before. His thoughts flood with an unquenchable thirst for her. Astrid responds with an intense heat of desire stirring deep within her.
Now completely empowered, she pities him, knowing he has never experienced a telepathic seduction. This new mental state will ignite a sexual rapture he has never known. Smirking, she knows the first move will be hers to make. Empowered, Astrid groans, seeking to be quenched.
Finally, she answers his question. “Oh, it went very well.” All the while, the lioness studies her prey, peering dangerously at him in ferocious hunger.
Her expression causes him to be breathless. Ahem, “Well, Uhm, w – would you like me to run a bath after such a long day?”
Sensing his unwavering desire, she toys with him, pushing it to the edge. “Jake, may I ask, what is your intention towards me?”
Stunned, he blushes with a restrained moan. Uhm, “S – sorry, what?”
She chuckles, “Jake, your thoughts, the extra-long stares, those groping eyes, and erratic breathing visualizing your fantasy.” She sways closer, eyes ablaze. Then whispers, “What do you desire?”
Rubbing the back of his head, unable to speak, realizes his hunger for her is apparent. Tightly closing his eyes. Whispers, “Oh, uhm…not sure I can answer such an inappropriate question.” Opening his eyes, seeing her, then falters. “I desire nothing more than to be with you tonight.” He trembles with anticipation.
Now intent on releasing her ecstasy, she prepares to devour him through the night. Standing mere inches from each other. Her body heat and aroma have him quivering. Slowly, looking into her eyes, he melts with pure desire. Catching himself, ‘What am I doing? She is out of my league.’ An unbridled yearning, she touches his cheek. “Jake, I am not out of your league.” Before he can muffle a response, she gives him a hard passionate kiss. Her advance releases a ravenous growl of hunger held deep within him.
Relinquishing their kiss. She moans, “I love the taste of your lips.” Then locks lips with him again then whispers in his ear. “Why don’t you prepare that bath for us.” In pure ecstasy, he nods and prepares the bath. Mesmerized by how she knows of his every thought. Now wonders if she really has bewitched him. All he can think about is pleasuring her in every way.
Reading him, she whispers, “Mmm…Oh yes, Jake, I wish you to please me…”
She shudders with anticipation. Jake turns and reaches out for her. Unaware of the effect his touch would have on her. His touch causes her skin to goosebump. She has never known anyone who freely expresses such a deep desire for her. Being a royal has always come with a stigma. However, Jake is unaware of this fact, so his feelings are genuine and without bias making him more desirable.
Speaking in her ear, he asks, “How would you like the water temperature?” Unable to respond, she kisses him deeply as they touch.
Embolden, he says, “I am going to ravish you all night, my lady…all night.” She drops her gown, standing nude before him. He gasps, gently touching her. He smirks, “I hope you do not mind.”
“Come to me, Jake.”
Unable to hide his excitement, he quickly undresses as she looks on, admiring his body like an animal in heat. Smelling the alluring scent of her skin places his hands on her hips, drawing her closer. Seeing the vulnerability in her eyes. He says, “I have wanted you since our first meeting.” Then lightly touches his lips to hers…they kiss. The impulsive craving is too voluptuous for her to resist. She aggressively presses her lips hard into his. They become lost in each other’s ecstasy. The carnal nature overtakes them. She has never experienced such physical pleasure as he ravages her exposing a heat of desire neither has known before. He lays her back against the soft sheepskin rug on the bathroom floor. Falling into each other’s arms compels their mutual hunger. In total bliss yet breathless, they indulge.
Staring at one another, he softly moves a stray lock of hair from her face. “Astrid, you truly complete me in so many ways. I cannot describe how fierce my desire is for your every attention.”
In a husky-throated voice, “Then you shall have it.” And with that, she pulls his mouth towards her and gives him another long passionate kiss.
Hours later, Astrid, sweaty and exhausted, lies on the sheepskin rug as Jake admires her beauty lying before him. Smiles and slowly picks her up, placing her in the bathtub, then enters behind her. She leans back upon him as he gives her a light brush of his lips over her shoulder and back. The touch of his lips causes her to shudder. He grabs the soapy sponge beside the bath and slowly rubs her back.
“Mmm, what are you doing to me?”
Feathering his fingers along her alluring neck. “I am washing, touching, and falling in love with you.” The words and fingers unhinge her. She moans softly. “Mmm…it feels so good. It is heavenly.” Sigh, “Tell me, Jake, what of your life?”
He breathes in intensely her aroma and then exhales. “Well, there is not much to tell. My mum and I lost dad two years ago. Since then, we have lived in a small apartment outside town.” Then chuckles while rinsing her back. “It is about the size of your room here at the hotel.”
“I am sorry for your loss and misfortune.”
He sighs, “Dad was a good man and provider. His vice was smoking, I’m afraid. So, in the end, it finally caught up to him. Since then, I have worked here at the Duke Hotel for the last couple of years, trying to become a manager. This would really help us financially.” Then gives butterfly kisses along her shoulder blade and neck, causing her to purr. “Enough about me. What of you? You are such a mystery.”
She hates being unable to tell him the truth and ponders her words carefully. “Well, Jake, I come from a noble family in the Netherlands. My father and mother have always been very supportive of all my endeavors. We are close, have responsibilities, and enjoy helping others. This is why I am attending the summit. We hope to make humanity better.”
Kissing the back of her neck. “Hmm, that is a lofty goal in this world.” Running his tongue over her ear, he whispers, “What of your romances? I am sure you have countless gentleman callers seeking your attention. A woman of your beauty and stature must have someone.”
Trembling from his touch. Sighs, “Not as many as you may think. I am choosy with whom I spend my time.” A light touch of his cheek. “I hope the dreams you have given me come true.”
He raises a brow and says, “Well, one of my wishes has come true.”
Intrigued, she asks, “Oh, how so?”
Looking over her should, his deep fiery grin makes her quiver. As he recalls that fateful night. “Before we met, I saw a shooting star and made a wish to find true love, and here you are.” While he lightly lifts her out of the bath and onto the sheep’s rug, slowly drying her back while taking every pleasurable moment to touch her.
With a hiss, she moans. “Oh, I see.” Feeling the emotions from his admission, her insatiable hunger grows for him. Yet, torn with passion and regret knowing this breathtaking experience cannot last.
He turns and gives her a light peck on the lips. “Astrid, do you think we could continue to see one another once you are done here?” Reaching out, grabbing his shirt. “I would really like to know you better. I do not want to lose you so soon.” She felt the sincerity of his thoughts. How could she answer him…what can she say?
“Perhaps; let’s see how the summit goes tomorrow.” Sensing his dejection by her answer. She quickly presses the warmth of her body against his with a long passionate kiss. Looking into his eyes and pulling him close. “You must trust me on this, okay?” Then smirks, “But for now, may I ask why you are getting dressed?”
“Sorry, is there something more I can do for you?”
“Yes, for you to be in my bed.”
Pressing against her voluptuous body laying his lips lightly on her ear. He breathes, “Although we have only known each other briefly. I really do trust you.”
With a low whimper, “Jake, let’s share dreams tonight.”
He smiles, takes his shirt off, then crawls onto her bed, reaching out to her. Falling into his arms, puzzled by how smitten she has become by a human. They make hot ravenous mind-blowing love to one another until the wee hours of the morning. Utterly exhausted, entangled in each other’s arms until late morning.
Jake slowly untangles and slips out of bed to fetch breakfast for them after such a voracious night. Upon returning, he moves to Astrid’s bedside. She reaches out and pulls him into bed with a kiss.
Grinning, he says, “Well, good morning to you also.”
“Ahhh, I felt our dreams last night. It was heavenly.”
“It was lovely for me as well. Hungry?”
“Yes,” caressing his chest with a mischievous smile. Astrid purrs, “Mmm, I hope we can fulfill our dreams again tonight,”
“Mmm, sounds delicious.”
Stretching her frame, he grasps her for another kiss. She gives him a sly look, then lifts herself out of bed towards the bathroom.
As they share breakfast, there is a frantic knock at the door. Abruptly Oska enters. Jake jumps up from the table. “Good morning Oska –.” But he ignores him, moving quickly to Astrid. They stare at each other intently. He projects. ‘The Galactic’s led a coup against the Council. We must go.’ Gasping, she desperately gathers her things to leave. Oska summons the guards to escort her out of the hotel. Jake looks confused by what is happening. Astrid abruptly goes without saying a word. As they depart, Ben seems to have suffered the same faith looking bewildered as well. Oddly, Gretta or Kol is nowhere in sight. Hurriedly, the envoy leaves.
###
Once back in Antarctica, Oska and Astrid quickly begin the proceedings when Kol abruptly interrupts. Chuckles, “Well, it appears the assembly has doubts about the proposal provided by the Pleiadians.” Then looks darkly at Oska. “I tried to tell you their simple minds would not listen.” Then turns and peers at the representatives. Snarls, “They just need a demonstration.”
Oska quickly confronts him. “Kol, no. Don’t do this. It is against the Council’s noninterference clause.”
“Ah, this is where you are wrong, Oska. You no longer have power here.” Then smugly faces the assembly. “Earthlings, you are not worthy of the treatment offered by the Pleiadians. Therefore, we offer you a better solution for your barbaric ways.”
Oska then rushes to Astrid’s side. “We need to get out of here. It is no longer safe for you. Let’s make our way to the small transport ship.”
Before they can leave. Kol peers at them and nods to one of the guards, who quickly pierces Oska’s side with a poisonous dart causing him to collapse. Astrid screams, “Noooo, what have you done. Oska’s…Oska’s of God.” The assembly becomes hysterical as panic fills the room.
Kol continues, “Where were we? Ah, yes, let me introduce you to a new era. The Galactic’s have taken control of the Intergalactic Council.” Then laughs darkly, “We will give you what you deserve.”
Astrid, using her telepathy, pushes the guards across the room, allowing her and Oska to escape. Making it to the corridor, Sylvie soon confronts them. “W – what happened? Why are you out here? Oska, are you hurt?” She then calls for the guards. “Quickly, we have a situation.”
Astrid franticly explains. “Oska has been attacked by one of our guards. Kol has deceived us and is now working with the Galactics in a coup against the Council. They have decided to conquer the Earth to enslave you, humans. We must return Oska to the ship for medical treatment and return to the Pleiades.”
Sylvie stares darkly at Astrid. “Wow, so you are not such a dunce or innocent. Kol has misjudged you completely.” Then kicks Astrid, who hits her head against a metal column. Sylvie then punches her with a fist to the side. Astrid yells, “Augh…oww.” Dazed and bleeding, leaning against the wall. Sylvie’s next thrust misses as Astrid quickly dodges it. Able to gain her senses, Astrid listens to Sylvie’s thoughts. Astrid moves fast as she lunges forward. Astrid quickly thrusts her into the rock wall, knocking her out.
In pain, Astrid drags herself and Oska into a cargo area. Looking up at her. He croaks, “You must return to New Zealand. It is no longer safe for you here.”
“No, we can make the ship.” She tries to pull him to his feet.
“No, Astrid. They have already captured the ship and will take you prisoner. Your only chance is to return to the hotel. Let your human help hide you. You must make it back to the hotel. It is oof, t – the only way…”
“Oska…Oska, I cannot leave you. We can still make it hold on just a bit longer.”
“Augh…my time is short young one. I no longer have the energy. Listen to me. You must be brave and hide until help comes for you. I – I am sorry I have failed you dear one…so sorry…groan…you must survive Astrid…you must sur.viv.e….” A deep gurgling breath leaves his chest. He is gone. Tears stream down her face as she hugs him tightly and weeps uncontrollably. Her head throbs as blood trickles down her neck. Slowly, she lays Oska’s body down and shuts his eyes. Tears fall profusely as she tries to come to grips. Leaving him, there is the hardest thing she has ever had to do.
She gasps, hearing a voice further down the corridor. It’s Sylvie who is yelling. “Find them quickly. Kol wants them brought to him immediately.”
Hearing this, Astrid quickly turns and hurries towards the small ship. Hiding behind a column, she looks for guards. Not seeing any, quickly boards the transport ship and engages the thrusters. The ship submerges and then surges towards New Zealand and safety.
###
There is an ambulance as Ben and Jake find Gretta dead in Kol’s room. As they stand in shock over what has happened, Astrid sways and stumbles into the hotel lobby from the side entrance. Jake quickly runs to her. “Astrid, you’re bleeding. Are you okay? What is happening?” She falls into his arms. Jake calls for Ben to help carry her to the room. Slowly placing her on the bed, Jake swiftly grabs a wet bath cloth and applies it to her head. “What – what has happened? Astrid…Astrid?” He looks up at Ben, terrified by her condition. Trembling, Jake tries to think how best to help her. She looks up at him. “Do not let them take me.” Confused, looks at her oddly. She groans, “Shut the door, Jake, and bring me the kit on the bedside table.” He quickly does as she requests.
Rattled, Ben asks, “Jake, should I send for paramedics?” Before muttering an answer, Jake has a sharp, loud thought come into his mind –. “NO.”
Tears fall as she stares up at him. She takes something from the bag and swallows it. Broken, Jake stutters, “W – what is wrong? What can I do to help? Astrid, your hurt. What can I do?”
Drained, she whispers, “Don’t let them take me…please…”
Gritting his teeth, Jake responds, “No one is going to take you from me, ever.”
Somberly holding her tight. She peers up at Jake in terror. “We have been deceived…it was a coup… they will come for me…the earth…e – everything.”