Kurt listened to the final, triumphant strains of the piano, anonymous in the crowd of worshippers. He was, simultaneously, both aggravated by the necessity of the image inducer, and pleased by its effectiveness. He clapped with the others, then sat quietly while the parishioners slowly left the church for the night city outside, talking all the while. Eventually, he was alone amidst the empty pews and darkened stained glass images. The lights went out, save for those which illuminated the crucifix and the statues of Mary and Joseph. He was still, lost in his own somber thoughts. Hearing footsteps approaching, he looked up to see the priest who had presided over the Mass coming down the center aisle.
Stopping next to Kurt, the priest was silent. After gazing for a moment at the figure of Christ, he said, "Though God's house should be open to his children at any hour, I am afraid that modern times force us to be more cautious. For example, the practice of locking the doors at night." Up to now, Kurt had been listening politely, but without comprehension. Now he jumped to his feet, uttering apologies and a farewell. The priest put a hand on his shoulder, saying "Wait a moment. I didn't want to chase you out. Here." He handed Kurt a key. The disguised mutant looked at the object, nonplussed.
"What-?" he began.
"I've seen you in the congregation. You seem to need more from God than most. If being in the Lord's house for a few hours by yourself helps you find what you need, I won't be the one to deny it to you. Now you can let yourself out, and lock up." His voice was casual, but the concern which underlay his words left Kurt without a single thing to say. Except—
"Thank you, Father."
The priest smiled, then quietly left, bowing to the altar as he did. Kurt slowly pocketed the key. Then he sat once more, eyes raised again to the still figure of Christ. Now, a small, grateful smile graced his lips.