Captain Jenkins of the Markham District Guard is standing in front of a small group of men, with one or two women. "Alright, gentlemen - And ladies. Welcome to the weekly briefing for Markham District's Guard. I'd like to extend special thanks to the Honorable Cornelius Cain for being in attendance this week to provide his guidance to us on matters of importance to the District Court." There's a round of applause directed to a man sitting in the front row, who imperiously inclines his head. "In addition, our Corporate Liaison unfortunately was not able to attend today due to an illness, but he has reassured me that he will review the minutes and provide feedback at a later date." Murmurs at that - The Liaison is not exactly popular, but he is competent. His advice will be missed.
"Right. Anyways, our administrative staff have confirmed that our campaign against gang activity in Markham District has been largely successful as of late - We've seen a reduction in reports for drug-related offenses, assaults, and robberies, and a hefty uptick in processing efficiency over the past month. Our thanks again to Judge Cain for being so swift in processing our arrests." A smattering of applause, yet again. "In addition, the Young Serpents seem to have largely gone underground after our bust of their little headquarters, which leaves us with only the Predators as a major concern in the district. Now! This doesn't mean we get to ease up! Gang activity is only part of our remit - With the gangs lying low, we're seeing upticks in reports of homelessness, squatting, all manner of property crime. The workhouses are never full, folks, and it's our job to ensure that those who cannot support themselves are ushered into them, not just those who choose to deviate from society." He sweeps his gaze over the crowd, noting who seems more enthusiastic than others.
"Assignments regarding day and night shift duties will be remaining the same this week as last - Any questions?" The Night Shift Bailiff Lead raises his hand. "Yes, Syms?" The Captain points at him. "Captain, we were wondering about the new changes to the Precinct-" Captain Jenkins waves his hand dismissively. "It's an update to the armory. Sydney and his team needed it for their duties." Syms frowns. "Sir, with all due respect, I don't know if we need an updated armory. We shouldn't be taking on any major threats, that's not our job." Jenkins sighs.
"Syms - We are not just the enforcement of the law as it is written. That is our job, yes, but it is not our purpose. We are the maintainers of the spirit of our glorious nation! You've seen what these people do when we are not there to restrain them - Their indulgence in narcotics, in bloodsport, and all manner of destructive exercises. The poor clog the streets, unwilling to put in the work for their bread, leeching off the charity of those foolish enough to aid them." The Captain flicks out a finger, pointing to the sky. "The youth disdain education in favor of the allure of the streets, of their criminal heroes, valorized by the press! The gangs walk free from fear, intimidating the honest business owners of Orion City! The workingman cannot walk safely in the street without being lured by the call of drink or dice, vice permeating the air itself!" He turns, sharply, beginning to pace. "We do not need the armory for gangs or threats to the city, no. We require it as a means for the enforcement of the spirit of the law itself, and the backlash of the people to such necessary measures. Which leads me quite nicely to my final announcement for the week, and the reason why Judge Cain is in attendance today."
He nods to the Judge, who rises. "Indeed. As part of my platform for election this past year, some of you may have noted that it focused on anti-gang measures. With your excellent aid in crushing the symptoms of such, myself and the other members of the Orion City Judicial Society have decided that the time is ripe for a matter near and dear to many of our hearts, a strike at the root symptoms of crime and gangs, in collaboration with the United Steel Corporation, so as to enable the avoidance of situations such as the currently ongoing crisis in Mahony District. We will be performing a trial program in your district, to test out the efficacy of such measures. More details will be forthcoming in later days, but rest assured - You will be at the cutting edge of criminological developments in our fair city." The Judge returns to his seat, demeanor as imperious and condescending as ever. Applause begins to ring out, as the assorted bailiffs and detectives begin to clap as they realize that their district has been singled out not for censure, but for honor.
Captain Jenkins smiles as the applause washes over him. He knows that risks like this are large, but necessary in the pursuit of his goals. He thinks of his career and of his future in the Guard. If all goes well, he could see himself ascending above the rank of Captain - Perhaps above even Orion City itself. And all he has to do is ensure that nothing disrupts his control of the District. What could go wrong?
