"Cognitive infiltration detected." says a new voice it sounded rigid... nonhuman
"Initiate Dream lock protocol.....if 'zade' sleeps again."
The intercom crackles voice now distorted, almost urgent.
"Do Not Sleep."
A red light spins silently behind the window....the researchers are gone.
All except one.
Hood up. Face shadowed.
They stand up and place a hand against the class....and for a second, the hand glows a subtle blue.
The above 'Zade' creaks open wider—and the smell of burnt cinnamon returns, stronger now, mixed with something like rain on hot concrete.
A whisper but closer:
"Hello Zade"
A gentle rhythm.
Rain on pavement.
Footsteps in an empty hall.
The shadow steps backs, arms crossed—patient, almost, as the air gets warmer.
A tug at his eyelids—the gentle pull of drowsiness— the whisper is gone, replaced by that smooth, electronic voice from the intercom:
"Zade. Stay awake. Dream Lock Protocol is initiated."
Zade replies with a simple "No."
"Subject 058 is uncooperative." buzzes the intercom.
"Sedation is required."
The Cell door opens slowly—and an arm reaches inside, holding an empty syringe.
It glints in the artificial light. Silver needle. Red liquid.
His eyelid become heavier as the air starts to taste sweet.
The arm moves quickly, he feels a faint, cool touch on his neck—an injection, quick and clean.
The world tilts.
colors bleed into sound.
The white walls pulse like veins.
And just before the dark takes you—
The shadow moves closer....lowering their hood...
...You see it
Your own face, staring back
Smiling.
"Sweet dreams, zade." "it" whispers—voice melting into your thoughts.
"LoopingInitiated."
"You too 'Zade'."
Your voice is calm. Too calm.
The cell blinks—just once—and for a fraction of a second, you're outside the cell inside the observation window, watching yourself lie unconscious on the cot, chest rising slow steady.
You think to yourself "Interesting"
The figure —with your face— turns toward you.....and winks.
Overhead, the intercom crackles with no voice, just a soft lullaby hummed through static.
Familiar.
Too familiar.
You know this tune.
Your body sleeps.
Your mind drifts.
Wide awake.
Somewhere far off a creak.
Not in the cell.
Not a door.
A memory.
"Goodnight." "it" whispers.
The intercom buzzes:
DreamLoopActive:Cycle#190initiated.....