The midday sun beat down on the wide concrete boulevard outside the main gates of Central High School.
Ten feet in front of the shimmering silver barrier, Director Cassian stood forward against his gold-topped cane with an arrogant smile.
Behind him, two dozen armed government enforcers held their assault carbines at low ready, their visors reflecting the glare of the noon light.
"You have ten seconds to open these gates and deactivate your territorial barrier," the director announced through his acoustic array.
"The Municipal Emergency Council does not negotiate with unregistered student militias."
Standing high on the gatehouse parapet, the First Player looked down at the government official with cold, unblinking eyes.
Beside him, the dark-haired striker rested her hands on the hilt of her twin cutters, her posture completely relaxed.
"I do not see a single monster standing out on that road, Director," the youth answered in a clear, resonant voice.
