The horses were saddled with food, water, and weapons. Luke and Stuart moved through the village preparing for departure, the air buzzing with excitement and fear. They hadn't just recruited a few fighters they had found a village of ten thousand people, ready to stand with the New World Militia. Luke tightened the straps on his horse. "Most of you stay here," Luke said. "I'll take Armani, Kwame, and Tyrese. Elijah said Malik will help govern the people." Malik nodded proudly as families gathered behind him.
Kwame kissed his wife goodbye, holding her hands a moment longer than usual. Luke smiled at Stuart. "We leave here with good news."Stuart didn't answer. He just kept tying his gear, jaw tight, eyes distant. Luke didn't push it. He turned to Armani. "You and your brother any sword training?"Tyrese stepped forward before Armani could answer. "Who needs sword training when I got this?" He pulled a mini double‑barrel shotgun from under his clothes and aimed it at Luke. Luke raised an eyebrow.
"Put it down. I get your point." Luke grinned.Tyrese smirked. "This my baby." Luke drew his own weapon a shining blade engraved with ancient symbols. "And this is mine."Tyrese nodded with respect and holstered his shotgun. Luke looked to Armani. "What's your weapon of choice?"Armani lifted a compact AR‑15 with a laser and scope. "This."Armani said Luke laughed.
"Where did you two get these?"Kwame mounted his horse. "When the world ended, me and Malik raided the police station. Only place left with firepower." Luke nodded."That's smart thinking."The warriors mounted up. Luke said
Behind them, families waved, shouting blessings, love, and hope. Luke led the formation Stuart on his left, Armani on his right, Tyrese behind him, Kwame at the rear. Once they were far enough from the village, Luke spoke:"The journey to a better future starts here, gentlemen."Tyrese nods and the new members ready for whatever came there way.
"Fighting demons ain't a better future". Kwame said "Luke didn't turn around. "That's true. Violence isn't a future. But remember" Luke looked ahead, eyes hard with purpose. "we're not fighting for our lives. We're fighting for humanity."