Dani's resolve was unwavering. If he was to build the strongest family in space, he needed more than resources and powerful allies like Emma and Tanis—he needed people. Skilled, loyal individuals who could wield the weapons and resources he now possessed.
With this thought in mind, Dani decided to return to the cave of survivors. The memory of their struggles lingered in his mind, and he knew there was potential among them.
Accompanied by Emma, now in her human form, Dani approached the familiar cave. The sight of her left the survivors speechless. Her long silver hair, glowing amber eyes, and otherworldly aura captivated everyone. Some murmured in awe, while others could only stare, stunned by her beauty and presence.
Arya was the first to break the silence, stepping forward. "Dani… you're back. And…" Her gaze shifted to Emma, suspicion mingling with curiosity. "Who is she?"
"This is Emma," Dani replied with a smile. "She's been traveling with me. I thought it was time to check on all of you and see how things are going."
Arya studied Emma, her expression unreadable. "You've been busy, I see. But why are you here now?"
Dani's tone turned serious. "I need information. Specifically, about the people here—what skills they have, what they're capable of. I'm working toward something, Arya. Something bigger than just surviving."
Arya raised an eyebrow. "And what exactly are you planning, Dani?"
"I want to build a family," Dani said, his voice firm. "Not just any family—the strongest family in space. But for that, I need people. People who can see beyond this cursed world and are willing to fight for something greater. Do you think anyone here fits that description?"
Dani walked among the survivors, observing their interactions, skills, and demeanor. Despite hours of watching and assessing, none of them stood out. They were ordinary people—broken, weary, and desperate. While his heart ached for their plight, Dani knew they wouldn't fit into the vision he had for his future.
He glanced at Arya, who was quietly watching him from the corner of the cave. She must have noticed his disappointment because she approached him with a questioning look.
"Find anyone who meets your grand expectations?" she asked, her tone laced with subtle sarcasm.
Dani shook his head. "No. They're all good people, but… they're not what I'm looking for. None of them have the skills or the potential to become part of the family I want to build."
Arya crossed her arms, her gaze sweeping over the survivors huddled together. "I can see that. Most of them have only known fear and survival. They're not fighters, innovators, or leaders."
Dani sighed. "Then what's the point? I don't want to waste their time or mine. I need people who can stand tall, not hide in caves."
After a moment of silence, Arya spoke up. "If you're looking for potential, this isn't the place to find it."
Dani raised an eyebrow. "What do you mean?"
"There's another planet nearby," Arya said, her voice steady. "It's not far from here—a few days' journey at most. Rumors say it's home to some remarkable individuals. Fighters, thinkers, craftsmen… people who might align with your vision."
Dani frowned, intrigued but skeptical. "Why haven't you gone there?"
Arya shrugged. "This planet may be cursed, but it's also home. The survivors here wouldn't stand a chance out there. I can't abandon them unless I know they'll be safe."
Dani's mind raced. A nearby planet with potential allies? It was exactly what he needed. But it also raised questions about how to get there and whether the rumors were true.
Emma, who had been silently observing the conversation, stepped forward. "If this planet has people of value, it's worth investigating," she said. "We have the resources now, and Tanis and I can handle any dangers along the way."
Dani turned to Arya. "What do you know about this planet? Its name, its dangers, anything?"
"It's called Velexia," Arya replied. "It's a small planet, but it's rich in resources and known for its fierce inhabitants. If you're serious about finding strong allies, that's the place to go."
Dani nodded, determination sparking in his eyes. "Then that's where we're going."
As Dani and his companions prepared to leave, Arya pulled him aside. "Are you sure about this? Velexia isn't like here. The people there aren't just survivors—they're competitors. If you're not careful, they'll crush you."
Dani smiled. "I'm not afraid of competition. I'm building something bigger than just survival. And if the people on Velexia are as strong as you say, then they're exactly who I need."
Arya hesitated, then nodded. "Just… be careful, Dani."
"I will," he said. "And when I find a safe place for these survivors, I'll come back for you. That's a promise."
Arya didn't respond, but the flicker of hope in her eyes told him she believed him.