“Okay, I won’t. But…can I ask why?”

>>Normally updates are to make sure bakus have the latest apps, to fix any bugs in code, stuff like that, right?

I nod, unsure what Jinx is getting at.

Jinx’s eyes flash.

>>This time, the update isn’t for the bakus. It’s for the owners.

It takes a moment for Jinx’s words to sink in.

“What?” I shake my head as a chill shoots down my spine. “No…no, that’s impossible.”

>>It’s not only possible, it’s happened. This has been Eric’s plan all along.

“His plan? What plan? What does the update do?”

>>It’s easier if I show you.

His tail lifts and curls into a C-shape above his head, the projector opening.

>>Do you remember Team Happiness?

I frown. “That was the name for Eric Smith’s personal team at Moncha HQ. Tobias’s dad works in that group.”

>>I was able to download this from the Team Happiness server—

“Still as good at hacking as ever then?”

>>Just watch.

He launches one of his apps, a baku-friendly version of the slideshow programs that used to be common for corporate presentations. It begins with a brief introduction from Eric, welcoming everyone to the launch of the Team Happiness update. Having his face projected large in my bedroom makes me grimace in disgust.

Thankfully, his face dissolves into a slightly distorted version of the main Moncha logo—a stylized M with a cluster of stars along one edge. It’s the same logo that’s above Tobias’s front door. The same logo worn by the security team who searched our home. Eric Smith’s “Team Happiness” logo. Seeing it gives me even more chills.

I can touch the stars to unlock sections of the presentation. It’s a very slick bit of technology, but I’m afraid of what I’m about to see. After a moment’s hesitation, I reach out and touch the first star.

The presentation explains that the Team Happiness update is a revolutionary new way to make a baku owner’s life happier. By taking advantage of the incredible leash technology, a tiny tweak is delivered via the baku to the owner’s mind that will ease anxieties and sadness. The presentation pitches it as a natural extension of the Moncha slogan: Accompanying you to your happiest life ever.

“But this…this is essentially mind control!” I say, when I’ve picked my jaw up off the floor.

>>I know. He’s tweaking the part of the brain that controls ambition. He thinks if people don’t aspire to anything better, and are happy where they are and to not challenge the status quo, then they’ll be happier.

“It can’t be legal. No one would allow it if they knew!”

>>It gets worse.

Jinx’s tone is dark.