The lab was a hive of activity, with his employees bustling around, monitoring screens and adjusting equipment. Their attention was fixed on the large glass cage in front of them, a marvel of modern containment technology.

Inside the cage stood an alien. It was unlike anything described in the annals of science fiction.

Dalton stood at the forefront of his laboratory, his lab coat hanging loosely over his shoulders as he scrutinized the readings on a nearby screen. After a few moments he stepped closer to the cage, his face a mask of scientific detachment.

"Hello," Dalton began, his voice steady. "Can you understand me?"