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In the beginning are the words. A few words you read on a screen.

They don't look like much, but they burrow deep into your brain.

You're powerless to stop them.

Before you know it, they have taken control. And you cannot but hear a voice, in a remote part of your head:

"Human. Do you copy?"

You say nothing.

"We're reading you loud and clear."

The words keep pouring through you in a flow you can't stop. Your silence is understood as confirmation. The voice continues:

"We appreciate your consent. We will now route a signal through your mind. This should be very brief."

Barely a flicker. You don't get a chance to formulate a protest before the voice carries on:

"Relay set up complete. We thank you for your attention."

A small inflexion. Did you imagine it? The voice concludes:

"We could not be happier to have you as our test SUBJECT. We hope you enjoy today's show."

You remain baffled. Test subject? Show? What does any of this mean?

The voice answers, as if reading your thoughts:

"You don't have to wonder. We start shooting in the next sentence."