The dining hall was built from salvaged wood and the bones of ruined buildings a symbol of survival stitched together by hope. The heroes sat around a long table, the firelight flickering across their faces.
Luke raised his cup. "Thomas… it's good to have you back, brother."
Thomas nodded. "I've been training with the old man. Sorry it took so long."
Ice leaned forward. "Did you master your power?"
Thomas shook his head. "Not yet. But I'll keep trying. Even if I can't move, I've got to try."
Ice nodded with respect. "That's the spirit."
Sophie stared at Thomas, her eyes bright and wide. Thomas met her gaze and for a moment, the world faded. It was mutual. Real.
Then Riot blurted, "Get a room!"
Thomas and Sophie snapped out of it, flustered.
Thomas laughed. "Who are these kids?"
Ice smirked. "New recruits. Riot and Stuart. Part of the militia."
The boys waved. Riot grinned. "So you're Thomas? These guys won't shut up about you. You don't look that strong. I bet Stuart could take you."
Stuart turned red. "Don't say that, Riot!"
Thomas chuckled. "I hope he can."
Ice groaned. "Riot, shut up. Thomas, sorry they're still learning."
Thomas waved it off. "It's fine. I need a sparring partner anyway." He looked at Riot, who immediately ducked behind Sophie.
"Tell your boyfriend I was just kidding!" Riot squeaked.
Sophie blinked. "Boyfriend?"
Thomas smirked. "Stop playing around," Sophie said, cheeks flushed.
Thomas turned to Luke. "Ace died with honor. I won't let it be in vain."
Luke nodded. "The bearded man told us everything. Edwin… he's in deep waters."
Thomas fell silent at the mention of his brother.
Ice broke the tension. "The raven says we need to expand—find more survivors in other regions."
Everyone agreed. Fred, the village mayor, had been listening quietly.
Thomas turned to the raven. "Go tell the old man I made it. And Luke and the others send their wishes."
The raven flapped its wings, screamed, "Caw caw! No fool! Caw caw!"
Thomas's face went flat. "I oughta—" He reached for the bird, but it was already out the door, flying toward the bearded man.
Luke stood. "We rest tonight. Tomorrow, we march."
Fred smiled. "If this is the last time I see you all… I've got something special."
He pulled out an old bottle of champagne.
"Don't ask where I got it," he said with a wink.
Everyone laughed. Riot and Stuart looked confused. "What's that?"
The heroes raised their cups. The fire crackled. Tomorrow, they would march. But tonight—they were family.