The first sign that something had changed came from outside the city.
It arrived not as threat, nor warning, but interest.
Requests for meetings. Invitations to speak. Quiet inquiries from neighboring regions asking how Palermo had managed to stabilize without collapse. How it had slowed decision making without freezing development. How it had introduced scrutiny without igniting revolt.
"They are studying us," Marcelo said during a morning briefing that felt heavier than usual.
Luca frowned. "Studying or preparing."
"Both," Marcelo replied. "Adaptation attracts imitation. And imitation attracts opportunists."
Aria listened without interrupting, Elena seated beside her at the table, fingers wrapped around a wooden spoon she tapped absentmindedly against the surface.
"Transparency has become a currency," Aria said finally. "And currencies invite speculation."
Marcelo nodded. "There are groups forming that claim to champion accountability. But their language is performative."
