First Public Judgment

The MOA Complex was alive with murmurs and speculation. From every corner of the settlement, civilians were called to gather at the SMX Convention Center. No explanation had been given, only that the Supreme Commander had an announcement to make.

It was rare for Thomas Estaris to address the entire community like this. People whispered among themselves, wondering what could be so important.

Inside the SMX Convention Center, hundreds of survivors filled the vast hall. Workers from the food distribution units, engineers, mechanics, medical staff, and patrol guards—all stood shoulder to shoulder, waiting.

At the front of the room, a makeshift stage had been set. In the center of it stood five men—bound, bruised, and stripped of their weapons and belongings.

The criminals.

The ones who had tried to take advantage of ALAB and RAVE.