Reason with AZ4

I point to the three children and their mother. “So they’re worse than pigs, right?” I confirm. AZ4’s smile fades slightly. “Well yes, I suppose, that is what I just said.” 

“So I’m worse than a pig?” I ask. Their face contorts in shock. 

“My love, what are you talking about? You’re not like these humans at al–”

“But I am! They are human, and so am I! Just because my clothes are a little different, that doesn’t make me any better than them!” I cry. My hands are in fists without me realizing it. I’m shaking with fury. “How could you say something like that?…Would you stop liking me if I lived here, or I dressed like that?” I ask, my eyes teary.

“No, of course not! My feelings won’t change that easily!” they reply, flustered.

“So help me. Like you said, this is no state for humans to live in. Help me so that they don’t have to live like this!” I plead.

“O-of course! I’ll help you! I’ll do anything for you!” they cry, breathless. I still don’t remember them that well. But they seem to be genuine. I’ll accept their help.

“Could you tell me more about this Floating City?”

“Ah, is your memory still foggy?… Well, the Floating City is where all the Pigeons live.”

“Pigeons?”

“Yes, the ones that got the treatment. Most of them seem to be wealthy, as the treatment was very expensive.” That’s why everyone here doesn’t seem very well off. “The Floating City is also our main headquarters.” Ah, they’re headquarters– wait, who’s?

“Wait– headquarters?” I ask. They look at me quizzically.

“Yes. The Aliens’ headquarters. How else would the city be able to float? My family usually makes the major decisions and lead all our activities.” My jaw drops. So AZ4 is basically royalty. Then… I could do this two different ways.

I could go to the Floating City and make diplomatic relations or ask the Aliens–AZ4’s family–for help.