[Their captors might indeed have scooped up everyone, and the Butler is not certain whether to hope they did or did not. Could the others be somewhere on this station? If not, how will they react to Madam Arid's absence? He fears a certain lack of restraint.]

We came to rescue you, madam.

[Of course they had, and of course Madam Arid missed the obvious fact.]

When we realized we could defeat the virus by using the skills you taught us, everyone agreed at once we needed to give you the same chance. Even One's, ah...

[Massive and terrifying and terrifyingly enthusiastic army, on a scale that might have daunted even the most determined kidnapper.]

...younger acquaintances.