CLOCKWORK HEARTS

Hidden truth

The campfire crackled, casting flickering shadows against the rough walls of the shelter that had been set up near the outskirts of the settlement. Clara sat on a makeshift bench, her eyes fixed on the dancing flames as the wind whistled through the narrow gaps in the wooden planks. She could hear the distant sounds of the village—laughter, quiet conversations, the clinking of tools being put away for the night. The tension from earlier had begun to dissipate, replaced by a sense of calm that felt almost foreign after everything they had been through.

Tobias approached, carrying two tin cups filled with warm tea. He handed one to Clara, his eyes watching her with a hint of concern.

- Here. Thought you could use something to help you unwind - he said, settling down on the bench beside her.

Clara took the cup, wrapping her hands around it and letting the warmth seep into her skin. - Thanks. I think I needed this. It's been a long day.

Tobias nodded, his gaze drifting to the fire. - You did good today. Convincing those people wasn't easy. They were scared, but I think they're starting to believe in what we're trying to do.

- I hope so - Clara replied, her voice soft. - It feels like every time we take one step forward, there's something waiting to pull us back. I just... I'm scared that we're not enough, that no matter how hard we fight, it won't be enough.

Tobias turned to her, his expression gentle. - Hey, don't think like that. We've come a long way already. We're here, aren't we? We made it to the settlement, and they listened to us. That means something. You're stronger than you realize, Clara.

She looked at him, her eyes reflecting the flickering light of the fire. - I couldn't do any of this without you. You're the one who keeps me steady when everything feels like it's falling apart.

Tobias smiled, his gaze holding hers. - We're all in this because we care about each other. And that's what makes us strong. The faction doesn't understand that—they fight for power, for control. We fight for the people we care about.

A sound from behind made them both turn, their hands instinctively moving to their weapons. A figure emerged from the darkness, their features barely visible in the dim light. As the person stepped closer, Clara recognized the young boy from earlier—Tomas. He looked hesitant, his eyes flicking nervously between Clara and Tobias.

- Tomas? - Clara called out, her voice calm. - What are you doing here? Is everything alright?

Tomas took a step closer, his small hands clutched tightly around something. - I... I wanted to help. I heard you talking earlier, and I want to be part of it. I want to fight back against the faction.

Clara frowned, her heart aching at the sight of his determination. - Tomas, you're brave, but this is dangerous. It's not something a kid should be involved in.

The boy's eyes flashed with defiance. - I'm not a kid. I can help. My brother... he made a mistake joining them, but maybe if I help, I can make things right.

Tobias leaned forward, his tone gentle. - Tomas, it's not about how old you are. It's about the risks. We're doing everything we can to protect people like you, and the best way you can help is by staying safe.

Tomas shook his head, tears welling in his eyes. - But I don't want to hide. I want to make a difference. Please, there has to be something I can do.

Clara exchanged a glance with Tobias, her heart breaking for the boy. She reached out, placing a hand on his shoulder. - Listen, Tomas. I promise you that we will fight for you, for your brother, and for everyone here. And you can help us, but it has to be in a way that keeps you safe. We can't afford to lose you.