Closer

"ID and registration," the city guards demanded as they scrutinized the vehicle. 

They wore combat suits, though not as advanced as those worn by the mercenaries Reign had encountered in Crestwood. 

Only a few guards at the gate had these suits, providing minimal defense against low-caliber bullets and stab wounds. They were essentially glorified full-body vests.

Humvees equipped with mounted machine guns also flanked the gate, a deterrent against any troublemakers. 

CCTV cameras dotted the area, and drones flew overhead, scanning cars for illegal merchandise. 

The driver handed over his ID, which read Richard Simon. 

The guards scanned it, checking the system for any crimes associated with his name. 

The ID's QR code ensured that even if someone else had committed a crime under the same name, it wouldn't flag in their system as a positive match. 

"It's clear," a guard said, handing back the card.