Shadows and Misdirection

Several days later, Helena finds herself in an ancient dwelling, peering through a window as an automobile approaches the property. They lower an individual and lead him into the premises. Both she and the men accompanying her conceal their visages. They instruct him to sit, while the abducted individual inquires:

—What is transpiring? Who are you?

—Hush! —she reprimands him, her expression stern.

One of the men approaches the abducted individual. They affirm having apprehended the accurate person, for he exited the vicinity just prior to embarking on the car, at which juncture they ambushed him and placed a bag over his head.

—Doctor, we require your cooperation.

—Who are you?

—We are the new syndicate. —responds one of the imperial soldiers.

—What syndicate and why me? —the dentist struggles in vain.

—Stay motionless, we merely wish to examine your neck.

—What afflicts you?

—Stay put, allow me to inspect you, doctor.

—You’ve erred, I am not a doctor.