The researchers formed a circle around Norah, with Shelton and his assistant doing their utmost to shield Norah from the crowd. "Form a line, please. Everyone, line up," they reiterated.

If one could look past the sterile ambiance of the research institute, the scene almost mirrored that of fans clamoring for a celebrity's attention.

In the midst of the commotion, a sneaky hand reached for Norah's backpack, deftly unzipping the outermost compartment.