[2034]

So there is still TV.  5275 looks up at the screen inside the rations distribution center and sees a group of council members sitting at a table. The headline below flashes “major overhaul in policy to mitigate climate change.”

A short, slender man addresses the small handful of reporters. “We acknowledge state and federal government policy around climate change was heavily influenced by the oil and gas industries. It is historical fact that irreparable damages were made due to the lobbying power of these companies.”

The woman sitting next to him chimes in “We now have to pay for and mitigate the issues our predecessors have caused. Over 57% of our previous drinking water supply as of 2033 is undrinkable without thorough sifting and cleaning because of microplastics, industrial chemicals, and prescription medications.

“While water rations have been in place since the third year of war, now a permanent allotment of water per person will be given. Places without a water source within a 2-5 mile radius will be highly discouraged from inhabitants. We no longer are building pipelines to desert areas for water.”

“After doing financial analysis, it will be more economically feasible to relocate peoples within these areas than to continue the maintenance, building, and researching for miles and miles of pipelines.”

"On the flip side, for places that experience consistent devastating flooding. We will also begin work on moving communities out of these floodplains."

“However, if you choose to remain in these high impact areas, it is your choice and there will be no further assistance given.”

“We’ve compiled a report both written and in video form to share out to communities. Officials will also be responsible in organizing community meetings informing people of the new climate policy decisions. Population density is more economically and environmentally responsible.”

“In this report, we’ve outlined our plan for the next 50 years. While there are things that feel reversible now, in the next 100-200 years, future generations will coexist with the Earth without the exploitive tactics some of our ancestors used. ”

“And we look forward to a strategic and fruitful next 200 years. In the next few months, the committee on Population Control will be reporting out an update on the current trajectory of birth rate.”

"We will now leave time for questions."

"Who was consulted on building this plan?"

"Are there dissenting opinion how is this addressed?"

The header below flashes, "this video message will be airing again in the next hour"

As 5275 turns her head away to look at the rations being handed out on the counter, she catches a glimpse of a familiar stature standing off to the side of the council.

"No fucking way!" She mutters just loud enough to startle the cashier. She stares at the scruffy bearded man on stage. It is Nyx. He’s dressed in a sharp suit to contrast his gruff look. He gives off a look of being disinterested, but she knows better than that. 

I wonder what he thinks about these policy proposals. Is he working for them or is he there to kill them?

“You know this is what we got. No need for that language.” The cashier retorts.

"Ah, yes. Yes, I know. My apologies." 5275 extends out her right arm like Soma showed her and has the man scan her wrist. He hands the food over to her. She looks inside the reusable wicker basket. Cricket protein powder, potatoes, sauerkraut, and carrots. 

She shifts out of the line and turns her attention back to the monitor and the conversations. Surprisingly the cool and calculated order of the council has disappeared.

An angry rough looking farmer stands up and yells, "Do you know what it means to leave your home? Don’t you care that we will leave the land we call home? Our family has lived on this land for over 150 years."

"Wouldn’t your family want to have consistent and clean water? Access to fresh fruits and vegetables? These are not reasonable expectations in several climates in our area. Have you thought about what you are keeping away from your children by being stubborn?"

Another council member chimes in and cuts the other off. "Tch. We’ll continue to monitor and assess water needs per person and community. At this time, creating areas with reliable clean water is paramount."

5275 keeps her my eyes on Nyx quietly confident in the background. What would you say right now, Nyx? Would you want me to go look for you?

"We’ve spent centuries seeing the Earth as a resource, something to be used. We are the fire ants to the world."

5275 turns back to the cashier. "Excuse me, sir… I mean. Excuse me. Where are these press releases filmed?"