Prose:Detroit Spaceport

DETROIT SPACEPORT, JUN 11 2187

The inside of the terminal building was loud with the chatter of the crowds, punctuated every so often by a PA announcement, as the faint smell of tobacco and marijuana smoke permeated throughout the air. The crowds were diverse, with different species of anthros - both organic and synthetic - throughout. The thumping of steel boots against the dirty metal floor marked a patrol of Black Glass Group soldiers in mech exosuits moving through, carrying large energy rifles and towering above the crowds.

“Paradigm Flight PA1870-1121 to the Cassini Giovanni Spaceport is now boarding at Gate J-172.”

A low, guttural roaring could be heard from a reptile-like biopunk slumped against a wall on the left side of the corridor, surrounded by medics. One of them yelled at a colleague for emergency drugs.

”Mike, get me the GBT immunoblockers!”

A smartly-dressed vulpine, a corporate executive flanked by two bodyguards, paid little notice to the scene as he strode down the hall. His PDA was to his ear.

“Look, if we can’t convince the committee to relax their proposed legislation, then we’ll have to do things the hard way. Let’s talk more at the office.”

Ads and news blared from monitors on the wall.

“Do you hate the boring boundaries of the body you were born with? Wish you could hear sounds ten miles away, see the electromagnetic spectrum, or lift an AV with a single hand? Introducing Metamorph, the next generation of BioCorp personal improvement technology. Less stress. Less pain. More choice. Choose the authentic YOU - Choose BioCorp. Disclaimer: We are legally required to state that biomodding may result in complications, up to and including severe brain damage and death; and we cannot be held responsible for life-changing injuries sustained as part of elective procedures. Talk to your doctor to see if biomodding is right for you.”

”…tensions on the Arabian border continue, as the Cassini Space Elevator enters its second week of unplanned shutdown due to what Paradigm
is calling a critical equipment failure. The supply route, held in monopoly by the company, remains fundamental to the economy of the independent colonies in Central Mars. The CMG is threatening military action against Paradigm if the blockade continues, but has yet to move its troops. And now it’s over to Terry for the stocks…”

"Have you or a loved one been recently affected by the Anaheim anomaly? If so, you may be entitled to financial compensation under the 2143 Cross-Border Aid Treaty. Dial 889-763-3636 to speak to a member of our legal team and claim your compensation today."

More announcements played over the PA system, punctuated by a bing.

"The national exosecurity threat level is currently Moderate. Remember, if you see or hear something that doesn't look right, speak to a member of our security team or dial 912."