Usually when clearfeeds came through our communicators, everyone continued about their business and let the data download for later consumption.

This was different. Emergency tones actually stopped people in place, and a general unease settled over the population. We had heard the computerized soft English toned voice before, just not this way.

“If you are hearing this emergency message from the United Colonization Agency, we regret to inform you, that you have been officially quarantined. Military blockades have stopped all transport entering and leaving DC. No one with the exception of high diplomatic reserves will be allowed out restricted colonial borders. More information will be available shortly. We apologize for any inconvenience.”

Frozen in their glances and half sipped iced coffees, there was no movement for 30 seconds until a woman quietly fainted.