A master builder knows his work is truly finished not when there is nothing left to add to the structure, but when the people inside can tear down his scaffolding and still stand perfectly straight on their own two feet.
The bright summer sun beat down on the sparkling waters of the Scottish harbor, turning the deep blue waves into a field of dancing golden light. The entire waterfront was alive with the chaotic, joyful sounds of laughter, music, and the clattering of wooden trade stalls. One year had passed since the final collapse of the corporate shadow council, and the local harbor community was busy preparing for a grand summer trade festival to celebrate the anniversary of their manual grid. Sarah Vance stood near the center of the bustling pier, a clipboard of recycled paper held l
