Power does not retreat when refused.
It probes.
The morning after refusal spreads, the city feels watched in a different way.
Not heavier.
Sharper.
Candle patrols still move through streets, but now they pause longer at corners, linger at thresholds, observe rather than intervene. Their presence is deliberate, measured, like fingers testing the temperature of water before stepping in.
People notice.
They always do.
The refusal has changed the rhythm, and power is listening for where it can press without breaking itself.
The first test is subtle.
A notice appears in the southern district, posted cleanly on a stone wall where traffic naturally slows.
COMMUNITY CHECK-IN
VOLUNTARY ATTENDANCE ENCOURAGED
FOR CONTINUED SAFETY COORDINATION
No mandates.
No warnings.
Just encourageme
