Part 1

[COMPLETE!]

Aliens storm our ship, threatening the lives of the crew.

I bow my head and approach the alien commander, Tarak. Alien predator eyes lock on me.

In desperation, I invoke an ancient word.

Tarak hurls a metal collar that clatters at my feet. With trembling hands, I seize the collar, lifting it to my neck. The collar locks. Tarak's tail thrashes in excitement, and he clips a leash to me.

I make a vow. I wear this collar to save my crew, but Tarak will never own my spirit. Why then do I want to fall to my knees? Why do I crave his touch?