The combination of the diversion and the large bird shape at the end completely has it "canon" to me that the Physiker escaped and is a shapeshifter. Not matter what you say, you cannot convince me you didn't write that deliberately!!! :)
I completely appreciate this isn't a one shot - and would agree its probably 3 sessions. Thats fantastic! and I think I'm raising the idea that this should be a booklet because i really want to see it!