"Thank you so much, Ruby," Leader Kerry said softly, her voice shaking with emotion.
She stood in the middle of the village square, surrounded by the people who had once been tired, hopeless, and afraid but now stood tall with pride and smiles.
Leader Kerry's eyes shimmered. "You didn't just help us, Ruby. You protected our home, our pride… our dignity."
Ruby looked at her quietly, surprised by the weight in her words.
Kerry stepped forward and held Ruby's hand, gently but firmly.
"If you ever need anything—we mean anything—this village will stand behind you. You'll never have to face anything alone again."
The villagers around them all nodded, their faces full of emotion. Some were already wiping their eyes. Others smiled and murmured in agreement.
"Y-Yes… If you want anything, we'll help!"
"Ruby, if you ever call—we'll come!"
"You helped us like family. You are family now!"
Voices overlapped, kind and sincere, rising into the quiet evening.
