The House of the Scorpion

Matt wipes the black slime off his face as two men make their way to him. Matt tells them that the Farm Patrol took his family. The men take Matt to a bathroom to wash up and change into a uniform. Matt can’t believe how nice the men are and thanks them when they give him food to eat. One guard comments that Matt must be an aristocrat due to his manners. When Matt tells a man named Raul that he needs to get to San Luis, they ask Matt what kind of work he can do. Confused, Matt says he can play the piano. Another guard remarks that Matt is definitely an aristocrat. Raul clarifies that they have to contribute to the general good of the people in the new Aztlán and asks if he has any productive skill. Matt racks his brain before saying he studied water purification. One guard replies that they are automated before another remarks that the plankton factory in San Luis always needs new workers. Matt agrees, thinking he can leave for the convent upon his arrival.

The next morning, Raul leads Matt to a room where guards are playing a game with tiny images hanging midair.