“In the year 2032, the united nations declared a state of emergency across the globe. This announcement came after a switching of the North and South poles, causing worldwide disaster and catastrophe. Magnitudes of Earthquakes never recorded, flash flooding and tsunamis which demolished coastal cities, and worst of all a third ice age. The flooded cities soon became part of a frozen mass. Although the severe conditions were survivable for the time-being, it was only getting worse. Individual nations decided to handle the events in different ways, but the Australian Prime minister, George Garrison, made an executive decision to create a massive bunker with self-sufficient heating and water units, as well as electrical generators as large as a small school. With most Australians pitching in, the bunker was completed before the largest temperature decrease flooded the region. This massive facility could house over 30 million Australians, with expansion being a possible pathway in the future.

For his executive decision being the saving grace for the Australian population, George became the first Hex. Originating as a synonym for curse, this is not the definition it took on. The Hex was not just the leader, but a symbol of hope and confidence in a time where it was difficult to experience either of these. But, only the best of the bunch could achieve the rank of Hex. The person was to show tremendous leadership talents, as well as being academically and physically inclined. They also were required to spend 7 and a half months outside of the shelter. Hex was not the only new career choice for the residence of the shelter. Many were intrigued by the hydroponic farming careers, also the maintenance positions. Few people wanted to be marketeers or bankers. As time went on, this feeling changed heavily. The markets became very popular, it being an exciting pastime for most people. It primarily reminded the first generation of the Sheltered of better times in less claustrophobic conditions.” [Demarcus Markova]