70 million people are born every year. 250 people in a minute, 4 new babies every second.

The year is 2055.

The word "countryside" no longer exists. Population is out of control.

At first, it was just crowded. But when "crowded" became "stifling", governments began taking some extra measures to ensure a slow, steady growth.

At birth, every child born within an overpopulated country had a small chip surgically inserted in the skin above their temple. It was painless but it wouldnt be in thirty or so years. You see, this "chip" is not what you would think it is.

Because this device only has one purpose: to kill. From the moment it touches the baby's skin, the timer starts. And when that timer runs out, it releases a lethal dose of pentobarbital right into your brain - instant death. Just like that.

In some countries, the chip is a little different. Exactly five months before the time clocks out, it emits a little light, visible through the skin.

Usually, the timer lasts an average of forty years.

But there are always faulty chips.