The Visitors by Katy Newton Naas

even though I knew that if one of us would have interrupted him, his response would not have been so pleasant. “Our citizens begin undergoing an observation process at age four that lasts eight to ten years. They are studied for their aptitudes and interests, and based on those criteria, a career is assigned to them. It is always decided in the best interest of the citizen, but most of all, of the society.”
    The captain’s mouth dropped a little. “What happens if a mistake is made?”
    Sir Andrew’s eyes squinted slightly. “What do you mean, a mistake?”
    â€œYou know, what if a citizen is given the wrong career, and then they do not perform adequately? Do they receive a new career?” The rest of the group was listening intently as the captain interrogated Sir Andrew.
    â€œMistakes are not made. The selection process is very thorough. Our citizens accept their assignments happily, and perform their duties to the best of their ability. Now, we must get to the dining hall for lunch. Noah, why don’t you join us at the hall today, rather than dining in the eating quarters here? You can help field their questions further.” Although Sir Andrew had framed it as an invitation, I knew it was a demand. So, although I would have rather eaten at the training facility, I nodded to Sir Andrew in obedience and followed the group to the dining hall.
    It didn’t take long for Jady to fall into stride with me. I glanced at her as she walked beside me, and noticed a slight wave of nervousness coming off her body. As I wondered what she was worried about, she spoke. “Noah, your society is fascinating. I have so many other questions I want to ask.”
    I looked at her out of the corner of my eye, careful to avoid eye contact. “You certainly are full of questions,” I pointed out.
    She gave me a shy half-smile. “I’ve been told that’s a flaw of mine.”
    â€œYou know what? I’ve been told that, too,” I said truthfully.
    Jady giggled awkwardly. “I don’t mean to annoy you; I just want to learn from you. One thing we’ve all been wondering is, is English your primary language? I mean, on our planet, we have many, many different languages. If I left the country where I live to go south or east or wherever, I wouldn’t be able to communicate with anyone. We never guessed you would know any of our Earthly languages, much less the same one we all happen to speak.”
    I knew my confusion was all over my face. “What do you mean?”
    â€œWell, when we were on our way here, we weren’t even sure we would be able to communicate with you at all. You can imagine our surprise when you spoke the same language we did.” She watched me intently as she spoke.
    I shrugged. “We know many languages,” I told her carefully. I didn’t want to give too much information away.
    â€œReally? Like how many?” she asked, her fascination growing.
    I tried to add them all in my head, but quickly lost count. “Hundreds.”
    Her mouth gaped open as she absorbed what I had just told her, and I immediately regretted sharing that information. I would never be able to explain how we knew so many languages without discussing our computer chips – an expressly-forbidden topic. Inwardly I began to cringe as I thought about the questions I knew were coming. I tried to prepare myself with an acceptable answer.
    â€œYou’re telling me that you are fluent in hundreds of languages. You can understand them, speak them, read them, and write them.”
    All I could do was nod.
    â€œThat can’t be physically possible. There are people on Earth who know multiple languages, but not hundreds . Not even dozens fluently. The memory capacity is just not there.” A mixture of emotions surrounded her as she spoke – confusion, wonder, and a little frustration.
    I shrugged, feeling helpless. What could I say? That our