There was an oppressive space.

Black marble filled the walls, with digital holograms floating like artwork, casting an ever-shifting light and color across the room. A cool white light descended gently from the ceiling, illuminating the metal and dark-tinted glass table finished in black chrome, yet retaining its natural color under the light.

“Report.”

A woman was the first to speak, her voice heavy enough to feel like a shift in atmospheric pressure. She was seated at one end of the meeting room, slightly elevated, allowing her to look down at everyone as she issued her command.

The others swallowed …