Matt opened the door and saw a man in a lab coat sitting at a table, waiting for him. Matt had seen him before from his earlier prison time. The doctor had recruited him and several other prisoners with a promise that he could reduce their prison sentences if the spend a few weeks in the Vault. That was two months ago.

“Prisoner 235, how do you feel after viewing the statue?” asked Dr. Jackson, eyeing the poor man before him in the small room as he sat down.

“I don’t think I can... It felt weird. It felt like I was staring at a woman. Only the woman knew I was staring and was not happy that I stared.” Matt looked up at the doctor and asked, “That reaction I had, was that normal?”

Jackson sighed. “I’m afraid so. We’re just going to run some quick tests for repeating thoughts.”

Matt frowned. “Repeating thoughts? Why would I have repeating thoughts?”

Matt’s question went ignored as Jackson pulled a leather briefcase to the table. Opening the case, Matt saw rapid lights flash before him. Jackson closed the suitcase and returned to his notepad as Matt adjusted his vision. “Do you want the good news or the bad news?”

“The good news?”

“You’re not having a seizure.”

Matt smiled and let out a breath he didn’t know he was holding.

“However, I can’t tell you the bad news,” Jackson continued. “At least, not yet.”

“I don’t understand.”

“Why don’t you tell me more about the statue?” Jackson asked.

“The statue...” Matt mumbled to himself. “That statue, she talked to me. I felt like I knew her voice. I know that’s impossible, but...” Matt looked up at Jackson and asked, “Why was her face covered?”

“You looked at its face, didn’t you?” Jackson responded with a flat voice. “You were given specific instructions not to do that.”

Matt shook his head, his eyes fixed on Jackson’s face. “I know. There were just too many things going on, and I...” He cut himself off and shook his head again. “I don’t know. I just... I felt her. I heard her. She felt like she was enjoying my presence. She felt... I... I’m still just confused. What the hell is that thing?!”

“Its face is a catalyst. I’m sorry, but I can’t tell you any more than I already have. Please continue.”

“I... can’t. It’s too embarrassing.”

Jackson seemed to consider that for a moment. Then, he nodded. “Very well. You’re dismissed, and I strongly suggest you get some rest. You look like you need it.”

“Thank you,” Jackson said. Two guards entered the interrogation room and grabbed Matt’s arms. Jackson watched Matt leave, then got up, walked back to the window, and stared out into the darkness, his thoughts as unreadable as the shadows on the horizon.

A guard entered the room, and Jackson spoke, “Get him some breakfast and something to write with.”