(Meanwhile, Across the Neutral Worlds, Cult Commoners' POV)
The crackdowns began quietly at first, a few extra patrol drones circling above the markets, a few more guards stationed at the spaceport entrances, but within just a handful of days the difference became impossible to ignore, as the neutral planets that once served as safe shelters for scattered Cult refugees now pulsed with an uneasiness thick enough to taste in the air.
*Step*
*Step*
*Step*
A woman hurried through the open market of Tithera's Lower Ring with her hood pulled low, pausing only when another cloaked figure tugged her gently aside into the shadow of a closed stall.
"It has become worse since Lord Shadow Dragon struck those planets," the figure whispered, his voice strained as he checked the corners before continuing.
"They are searching harder now. Anyone who looks even slightly suspicious is taken in for questioning."
The woman nodded once, her eyes tight with both fear and pride.
