Zurich Meet Tomorrow by Alastair Reynolds - Book - Page 14
‘You, about twenty years ago. There’s not much I don’t
remember.’
Mitsu’s mind is no more than a knot of algorithms smeared
across the world’s global server space, but what does that
matter? She knows Amaka. Sometimes you just need a trusted
companion, someone to remind you that you had not come
into this world for the purpose of putting lipstick on pigs.
‘Zhang’s really not going to like this,’ Amaka says.
In this she is right. Mister Zhang is ruffled, although he does
his utmost to remain civil.
‘This is a very concerning development, Amaka. Our
financiers were already counting on your involvement. To
express these reservations at this late hour is a very grave
disappointment.’
‘And it’s only now that it’s dawned on me what that capsule’s
going to be like.” She leans in with confidence, turning over
to a page of her sketchbook where she has already outlined
her thoughts. ‘There’s a way, Mister Zhang. Rethink the whole
climber capsule. Take fewer passengers. Expand the living
space. Make those windows bigger.’
‘They will have glasses. Why do the windows matter?’
She gestures hopelessly. ‘Because ... they do! They’re
a statement, a declaration of quality over compromise! And
while I’m at it, airline food won’t cut it, either. You’re going to
have to figure out a way to get a chef inside that thing, a proper
kitchen...’
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