The proposal arrived exactly when Aria expected it to.
Not delivered to her directly. Not announced with urgency. It surfaced through channels designed to look inevitable, was discussed on morning programs, was circulated in policy briefings, and was framed as a natural evolution rather than a reaction.
A Regional Stability and Oversight Framework.
The name alone carried the scent of careful intention.
Marcelo read it twice before handing it to Aria. Luca watched her face closely as she skimmed the document, eyes steady, posture relaxed, and Elena asleep against her chest.
"They want guardianship," Luca said quietly. "Without calling it that."
"They want permission," Aria replied. "Without asking."
Marcelo nodded. "They are framing it as protection of legacy assets. Cultural continuity. Safeguarding future generations."
Aria looked down at Elena. "They are using language of care to disguise control."
