When the sensors picked up another ship, this time the signal was familiar. It was one of the old allied shelters—the friends they'd left behind when they moved to this new world. There were emotional reunions, hugs that lasted longer than words, and tears for those who hadn't made it.
News was exchanged, trade began, and the two groups merged for a few days of celebration. Alex marveled at how much had changed; he was no longer the outsider he'd once been. The children from both groups became instant friends, and the adults shared stories, laughter, and, sometimes, more. The bonds of love and friendship grew deeper, and the combined community felt stronger than ever.