Russell Clinton stepped into a newly constructed neighborhood cybernetics clinic ...


    Hundreds of thousands were popping up throughout the nation.


    An AI scanner alerted, "Please dispose of any weapons in the bin. All identification shall be removed during the disposal process for anonymity."


    Russell dropped a handheld EMP device into the bin.


    "What can I do for you, sir?" asked a virtual receptionist.


    "I um …." Russell stared intensely at the floor, clenching his fists.


    "It''s all right, sir. Please have a seat and fill out this holo form. We''ll call on you ASAP."


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    A form appeared in Russell''s mind.


    "Mr. Clinton, the doctor will see you soon. Please put on this headset."


    A headset came out of a terminal drawer.


    "Please follow the highlighted arrows to your room."


    Russel waited in the room as the headset scanned his implants.


    A doctor knocked on the door, stepped inside the room, and closed it behind them.


    "Hi, Russell. I understand you''re having disturbingly violent thoughts. I''m glad you came to us."


    Russell''s hands shook, and he stuttered. "I I I ..."


    "Close your eyes, Russell, and take a deep breath. Take it slow ..."


    "So, uh, I saw an advertisement in my virtual world, saying there''s free and confidential counseling, including any follow-up treatments."


    "Yes, that''s correct, Russell. The National Cybernetics Mental Health Act has passed, thanks to the new Technocratic Party now in charge of our government."


    "You can fix me?" Russell tearfully gazed into the doctor''s eyes.


    "We''ll do whatever it takes for as long as it takes, Russell."