The second intervention does not begin where the first one failed.
It begins where success would be undeniable.
⸻
Jason knows before the alert arrives.
He feels it in the way the data hesitates. In the unnatural smoothness of the projections, as if the system itself is holding its breath.
“They’re choosing carefully now,” he says, voice low.
Zane stands beside him at the long table, the heir perched on his hip, awake and watching the glow of the maps with solemn fascination.
“They learned from Grayfen Reach,” Zane replies. “So this time they’ll pick a place that looks… justified.”
The alert arrives a heartbeat later.
PROVISIONAL INTERVENTION ZONE — EDUCATIONAL INFRASTRUCTURE
Jason closes his eyes.
“Oh no,” he whispers.
Zane doesn’t need to ask where.
⸻
Stonehaven.
A model to
