In "They are Not Us", a group of humans wake up aboard a technologically advanced spaceship, their memories fragmented and their world turned upside down.

As the humans grapple with their disorientation, secrets begin to unravel, revealing the true nature of their captors' intentions.

Chapter by chapter, the story delves into the humans' journey of self-discovery, interwoven with the complex mystery of the Velonians' fascination with humanity. From their initial awakening and discovery of their lost world's transformation to their realization of the aliens' desire to physically emulate them, the humans face a series of ethical dilemmas, fear, and determination.

The characters—Jane, Mark, Elena, David, and Sarah—each bring their unique perspectives and strengths to the narrative. As they learn to navigate advanced technology, train for a cosmic battle, and forge unlikely alliances, they find themselves questioning the very essence of humanity and its connection to the universe.

In the climax, Mark stumbles upon a horrifying revelation—the Velonians are not only seeking to understand humanity but to become it, through a gruesome process of incorporating human organs into their own bodies.

The journey explores themes of identity, sacrifice, and the ethical boundaries of exploration and transformation. It delves into the ethical implications of a sentient race seeking to assimilate the essence of another species, and how this obsession disrupts the balance between curiosity and morality.

Through a blend of suspense, science fiction, and psychological depth, "They are Not Us" takes readers on a gripping journey of survival, understanding, and the intertwining destinies of humanity and an alien race. As the characters grapple with their place in a vastly changed universe, they ultimately confront the question of what it truly means to be human.

Maxim Kaluzhny