The morning after the battle was quiet.
Too quiet.
Ethan stood on the porch of the community center, watching the sun rise over the mountains. The golden light spread across the valley, painting everything in warm hues. Birds sang in the trees. A gentle breeze carried the scent of pine and wildflowers.
But the silence felt heavy. Like the world was holding its breath.
Nora walked out, her footsteps soft on the wooden boards. "You're up early."
"Couldn't sleep."
"Nightmares?"
"Not nightmares. Just... thinking."
"About what?"
"About Price. About his daughter. About all the people who've been hurt by the Frequency. About all the people we couldn't save."
Nora stood beside him. "You can't save everyone, Ethan."
"I know. But that doesn't stop me from trying."
---
The community gath
