The afternoon sun blazed down over the grand civic plaza outside Municipal Hall, casting brilliant reflections across the towering glass spires of Sector One.
Across every major street corner and public transit terminal, massive holographic screens flickered with the blue and gold insignia of the Municipal Council.
Director Rook stood behind a gilded podium on the central stage, his tailored suit immaculate as camera drones circled his head.
"Citizens of the metropolitan reconstruction zone, the dawn of our new civilization has arrived!" the director proclaimed, his voice echoing through thousands of speakers.
"Under the emergency authority of the Municipal Council, we officially inaugurate the Sponsor Qualification Trials!"
"Every district shelter, private enclave, and independent militia must register their combat rosters by this afternoon."
