The next day, Maya gathered Jalen and the rest of the youth council at the community center. Her voice was steady but fierce. "Marcus isn't wrong. There are forces here trying to pull us back into chaos. But we can't let fear win. We have to stand united."
Jalen nodded. "We need a plan. Something to show the whole neighborhood that peace is possible—and that we mean business."
Ideas flew around the room: murals symbolizing unity, open-mic nights where everyone could speak, youth patrols to keep the streets safe. But Maya knew it would take more than art and events—it would take courage.
"We're going to confront Marcus," she said, eyes locked on the group. "Not with violence, but with strength. We'll invite him to our next event. Let's show him what this community can be."
There was silence, then a collective breath of agreement.
As preparations began, Maya couldn't shake the feeling that this night could change everything—one way or another.