At a public launch for the Memory Helmet, inventor Mr. Pate brings his mother, Zina Sampson, forward as the device's first user. He frames her as the reason he built the Helmet, accusing her and declaring his hatred while the crowd presses for proof. Zina refuses the protective pill and a consent form, insisting she won't sign and saying she'd rather die than have her memories read so her son avoids blame. Officials and attendees escalate pressure; one person declares, "I'll sign on her behalf," forcing an imminent decision about exposing Zina's past.