External POV
On the southern ridge overlooking the coastal settlement, Oakwood's observers adjusted their optics.
The settlement appeared deceptively ordinary from above.
Fishing boats swayed gently at the docks. Emergency vehicles clustered near the warehouse. Human authorities had cordoned off sections of the street.
But beneath the surface,
Energy residue lingered like heat shimmer.
One lieutenant monitored a handheld resonance scanner.
"It's dampened," he reported. "But not extinguished."
"Expected," the strategist replied.
"And Moonstone?"
"Two signatures approaching. Divergent vectors."
The strategist's gaze sharpened slightly.
"Separate vehicles?"
"Yes."
That was information worth more than the surge itself.
Division within Moonstone leadership confirmed vulnerability.
"If they converge publicly," the lieutenant said cautiously, "it may appear coordinated."
"It will not be," the strategist replied. "Their timing differs. That alone implies fracture."
