The noon sun blazed directly overhead as six colossal golden scrolls unrolled across the open sky above Embassy Square in District Eight, projecting radiant runes of celestial authority across the entire metropolitan horizon.
"By the decree of the Six Stellar Consulates, District Eight is officially declared collateral property under the Astral Debt Treaty of Sector Seven," the lead herald's booming voice echoed across the square.
"Every street, building, water reservoir, and mortal soul within these municipal borders is subject to immediate corporate liquidation," the second golden construct proclaimed, adjusting his glowing crystalline visor.
"Surrender the district master keys to our custody immediately, or face permanent soul-conscription in the off-world mining leagues," the third herald commanded, his spectral robes billowing with astral fire.
