The sun rose over the mountains, painting the sky in shades of gold and pink. Mist clung to the valleys below, slowly burning away as the morning warmth spread across the landscape. Birds sang in the trees. A gentle breeze carried the scent of pine and wildflowers.
Ethan stood on the porch of the community center, watching the light spread across the valley. It had been three months since Alex merged with the original Chimera core. Three months of peace. Three months of rebuilding. Three months of learning to live without the constant threat of war hanging over their heads like a dark cloud.
Below him, the community was waking up. Children ran through the square, their laughter echoing off the buildings. Adults opened their shops and businesses, rolling up shutters and setting out goods.
