The air exploded with sound.
Gunfire cracked through the silence, and screams echoed against the broken buildings as chaos descended on the battlefield. The survivors had no time to hesitate—Elena rushed forward with Ethan at her side, both firing at the masked attackers. Dust and debris filled the air, clouding their vision, but their determination burned brighter than ever.
Alina stayed behind cover, gripping her weapon tightly. Her hands trembled, not just from fear—but from the weight of protecting the life growing inside her. Every shot fired was a step closer to peace, but every heartbeat reminded her of the risk she was taking.
"Stay down!" Kai shouted, sliding beside her as bullets whizzed overhead. "You need to stay safe—for you and the baby."
"I'm not running," Alina snapped, her eyes fierce. "Not again."
Across the rubble, Elena moved like a force of nature. Her rage was raw, her movements sharp. Each masked attacker that came near didn't stand a chance. She wasn't just fighting for her people—she was fighting for her daughter, for the grandchild she hadn't even held yet.
But then, Alina let out a sharp cry.
Kai turned instantly, his eyes wide. "Alina?!"
"My water just broke," she gasped, falling to her knees behind the broken wall.
Panic and adrenaline crashed together. "We need to get you out of here—now."
Ethan and Elena fought their way back to her side, creating a path through the battlefield. Blood and dust clung to their skin, but when they saw Alina on the ground, their priorities shifted.
"I'll cover you!" Elena yelled. "Get her to the infirmary—go!"
Hours later, after the battle had ended and quiet settled over the camp, cries filled the air once again—but this time, they were not of war.
Alina had given birth to a baby girl.
Tiny, fragile, and strong—just like her mother.
Tears streamed down Alina's cheeks as she held her daughter for the first time. Kai sat beside her, stunned by the beauty of it all. Elena walked into the room, her armor still stained, her heart full. She looked at her granddaughter with awe.
"She's perfect," she whispered.
For a moment, there was peace. Despite the war, the pain, and the fear—a new life had arrived.
A new beginning.