The Disconnected City

An article appeared: a next-generation low-orbit satellite jointly funded by Obsidian and several conglomerates, scheduled for launch next December. It was still in the design phase. A satellite that had not been completed was calling for help from one year in the future. Oracle's blue light flickered like a heartbeat crossing time. A second message fought its way through the noise. [Do not trust the opportunity alerts.] [Every mission you complete is helping FIRMAMENT select its administrator.] [They can see you now.] Outside, the streetlights that had just returned to Grayport began going out one by one. Darkness advanced from the end of the block.