Thanks, Bev. This whole story is a Magic Carpet Ride of American Coercion. :)

I'm always rendered a little bit nauseated with irony when the Muzak version of "In the Year 2525" plays.

"If Man is still alive..."

Are we, though? If it's a simulation, that would explain why the edifices of GovCo don't need to coerce us in waiting rooms and elevators anymore: we're just wired directly through our phones to the Matrix.

"You are entering the Restricted Zone. Trespassers will be punished by Death and a large fine."

"There are no aliens. Those of you who believe they've see an adult male alien or a young female alien must report to General Rykov."