That voice…

His captor looked exhausted, moving to the office-like desk and sat in a chair. "I'm not going to do anything." He spoke, a metallic edge to his voice. It seemed to stop Dib at once, though he felt defensive. How could he trust something that bought him? The more important question was why he could understand his captor.

"You are lucky." The voice spoke again. Dib couldn't help but watch the other's mouth. Something about the foreign notes that stood prominently in his speech lured him. "Many captures are made to be slaves, or worse."

The words couldn't sink in. Slaves? Captures? He refused the urge to speak, the urge to ask questions and demand explanations.

"Excuse my manners." The creature stood up, giving the faintest of smiles, "My name is Domino. I…am a powerful Irken among the outskirts of the Empire." He paced the room, "Sometimes when a mass capture is conducted I gain admission. If I can save just one alien, I feel like I have assisted in the resistance. You won't have to worry about me. You are not here for anything against your will, and after you come to understand your position you'll be free to leave."

The information was vast and Dib felt dizzy, finding the nearest chair and sitting down. He stared at the Irken, trying to gauge his sincerity. "I can leave?"

"It can speak!" Domino teased, grinning. "Ah, you could if you feel like you can survive it. Though, if you are willing to stay, we have the space."

"You—you want me to become some kind of whore?" He wasn't stupid, he knew what this establishment was. Dib looked ready to run.

Domino laughed, "Little creature please, if you allow me to explain…"