Predator Heaven 2

As David uttered those words, he rose from his seat, shoulders nonchalantly shrugging, an expression of disdain etched upon his face. Towering and gaunt, his frame seemed to accentuate his peculiarity. Dr. DuLang's countenance flushed crimson, suggesting a forthcoming retort, but the tall, thin figure deliberately averted his gaze, a deliberate act of disregard.

The gathering, initially captivated by David's discourse, could not help but burst into laughter as the lean individual spoke.

Indeed, tales of "encounters with alien abductions" occurred annually across the globe, their veracity veiled in uncertainty. Some narrated encounters involving extraterrestrial spacecraft, while others claimed to be subjected to experiments by otherworldly beings. There were even accounts from women who alleged sexual assault by these extraterrestrials.

The descriptions of the encountered aliens varied widely, ranging from diminutive green beings to creatures with oversized heads and pointed ears, mirroring depictions found in movies, novels, and comics.

Different regions adopted diverse approaches to these news stories. Most dismissed them with a chuckle, failing to take them seriously. Some advanced nations established specialized departments to handle such occurrences. However, virtually all such cases fizzled out, lacking any significant developments. The ultimate resolution typically involved cataloging the accounts of those involved, with no further follow-up.

David comprehended this phenomenon well, thus harboring no resentment toward the waning interest of his peers.

In this moment, he noticed Dr. DuLang's lingering desire to articulate something, yet there was a noticeable absence of eager listeners. David decided to approach him, with the intent to engage in casual conversation.

In truth, David held little fascination for the "desert disappearance" case. His perspective aligned with the majority, seeing no mystique in the matter. The scorching desert could warp one's cognitive faculties, potentially inducing a distortion of temporal perception. His only motivation in conversing with Dr. DuLang was a compassionate response to the chilly reception.

Such occurrences were commonplace in social gatherings, unworthy of specific mention.

Nonetheless, the ensuing events took an unusual turn.

As David drew near to Dr. DuLang, leisurely sipping his drink and adopting an unhurried demeanor, the tall, thin figure stepped forward, abruptly blocking his path.

Such a move was undeniably discourteous and impolite, gravely inappropriate for the elevated social setting. David halted, retaining his composure and refraining from irritation. Instead, he slightly elevated his gaze, casting a cold, disapproving look upon the lean individual.

However, when their eyes met, David found himself momentarily taken aback. The lean man returned his gaze, exuding an air of sincerity. David, with his wealth of life experiences, recognized the capability of skilled dissemblers to feign sincerity. Yet, he had no prior acquaintance with the lean man, rendering deceit an unlikely motive.

In the lean man's earnest gaze, an undertone of urgency persisted. He lowered his voice and spoke with haste, "Sir, I implore you, refrain from further discussion with Dr. DuLang regarding his niece."

David found himself startled, having not anticipated such a statement from the lean figure!

His initial impulse was to question, "Why?" However, the lean man reacted swiftly, having discerned not only David's intent to converse with Dr. DuLang but also his probable response. Consequently, he promptly asserted, "I beseech you, for the sake of all that is sacred, do not inquire why at this moment. I pledge to elucidate later."

The lean man's words were urgent and rushed, necessitating David's undivided attention to discern his message. The request itself was peculiar, and for a brief moment, David's sole response was a cold, reproachful gaze.

Upon the lean man's completion, he continued as though nothing had occurred, walking away. However, his eyes remained fixed on David, an imploring expression apparent.

In that fleeting moment, David's thoughts whirled. Should he acquiesce to the lean man's plea or rebuff it?

After deliberating for several seconds, he reached a decision: he would accede to the lean man's request. Dr. DuLang had evidently extricated himself from his uncomfortable predicament, currently engrossed in conversation with two others.

They appeared to be discussing the cooperative endeavors between the United States and the Soviet Union in the realm of rocket launches. Meanwhile, the lean figure strode toward a corner of the hall, pushed open a door, and ventured outside.

David raised his glass, emptied it, and followed suit.

Upon crossing the threshold of the door, he observed the lean figure standing not far away beside a pillar, seemingly awaiting his emergence.

The distance between David and the lean man was approximately three meters as they locked eyes. The lean figure spoke in a deep tone, "I am aware of your penchant for exploring all things peculiar, which is why I beseech you to desist from discussing Dr. DuLang's niece."

David slowly advanced, asserting, "I believe the investigation of all things unusual is the driving force behind human progress."

The lean figure sighed, "Yet, in this particular case, I contend that it is unsuitable for anyone to conduct further inquiries. Let it be, for these incidents occur every year..."

A momentary pause ensued, during which David was poised to counter and refute the assertion. However, the lean figure suddenly sighed again, "Moreover, Miss Duni is receiving exemplary care at the mental hospital. Everyone can simply consign this matter to oblivion, to the benefit of all."

David, who had many words to express his dissent, was about to do so when the lean figure's latest statement prompted a sudden realization. He was nearly on the verge of bursting into laughter!

Every word uttered by the lean figure was aimed at dissuading David from involving himself further. Yet, those very words were replete with tantalizing hints of peculiarity, coupled with the revelation of Miss Duni's presence in a mental hospital. This information piqued everyone's curiosity, particularly given David's reputation for investigating unusual occurrences. It all seemed to suggest something significant: the lean figure was engaging in a clever game. He clearly wished for David to become entangled in this matter, but he feared outright refusal, hence his unorthodox approach designed to kindle David's curiosity.

At this juncture, David remained unaware of the lean man's identity or the nature of the "desert disappearance." However, he had deciphered the tactics employed by the lean figure.

With a chuckle and a series of nods, he conceded, "Very well, in that case, I shall cease to harbor any further interest in this matter. When I departed, they were engrossed in discussing the relationship between dolphins and seafarers – a far more intriguing topic."

As he spoke, he turned on his heel and gestured to signify that he would no

longer entertain any discussion on the matter. At that moment, he heard a peculiar sound emanating from behind him.

David had taken just one step when the lean figure called out, "Sir, I am the person who called you this morning."

David stood upright, slowly turning to face the source of the voice. The lean man appeared even more anxious now. Although he had employed cunning tactics earlier, his current demeanor was one of genuine sincerity and urgency.