The grand celebration for the heroes' return had finally wound down, leaving behind a happy, hopeful buzz that filled all of Outpost #7.
The next morning, it was back to business. Ryan called a meeting of the new Sector Council in the command center at the very top of the god Spire.
The room was sleek and new, with a large holographic table in the center that showed a map of their entire sector. The view from the giant windows, looking down on their bustling, futuristic little city, was breathtaking.
Ryan sat at the head of the table, flanked by his closest companions. Scarlett was there, quiet and watchful as always. Chris "Boulder" Magnus sat next to her, his massive frame barely fitting into the high-tech chair. He fidgeted slightly, still not used to these formal meetings.
The rest of the council, made up of representatives from their allied outposts, looked at Ryan with expressions of deep respect.
