Chapter 15: Echoes of the Past
The icy wind whistled through the ruins of Boston as Izuku, Piper, and Nora followed Paladin Danse back to the Cambridge Police Station. Despite the success of their mission, the group remained on high alert. The Wasteland's streets always hid dangers, and after the battle at Mass Fusion, no one was letting their guard down.
Eri, wrapped in a blanket, rested in Nora's arms. Despite the harshness of their journey, the little girl had adapted to this new world, trusting the adults who protected her.
**Piper:** *(Glancing at Eri with a smile)* *It's amazing how strong this kid is. I don't think I could've handled all this at her age.*
**Nora:** *(Gently stroking Eri's hair)* *All we can do is keep moving forward and give her the life she deserves.*
Izuku clenched his fists. Those words echoed in his mind. The world was no longer the same, but as long as he had strength, he would do everything in his power to keep his family safe.
---
### **Return to the Police Station**
When they arrived at the Cambridge Police Station, Scribe Haylen was the first to greet them.
**Scribe Haylen:** *(Relieved)* *You made it! Do you have the relay?*
Danse nodded and handed over the device.
**Paladin Danse:** *Yes. Thanks to Izuku and his team.*
**EXP +100 for completing the mission**
**Soldier Rhys:** *(Arms crossed)* *I guess you're not as useless as I thought.*
Piper let out a sarcastic laugh.
**Piper:** *Oh, what an honor, Rhys. Your seal of approval is worth gold.*
Rhys scoffed but didn't argue further.
Danse turned to Izuku.
**Paladin Danse:** *You have talent. And the Brotherhood needs people like you. If you're interested, we could make this more official.*
A dialogue menu appeared:
1. **(Accept) "Technology must be protected. I'm in."**
2. **(Hesitate) "I'm not sure. I have other priorities."**
3. **(Decline) "I don't trust the Brotherhood, but thanks."**
Izuku took a deep breath before answering.
**Izuku:** *(Seriously)* *I appreciate the offer, but I need time to think. My priority is my family.*
Danse nodded, respecting his decision.
**Paladin Danse:** *I understand. But if you change your mind, the Brotherhood will welcome you with open arms.*
Before leaving, Danse handed him something else.
**Paladin Danse:** *Here, an upgrade for your rifle. It's the least I can do for someone who stood by my side against a Deathclaw.*
**Izuku has received an advanced scope upgrade for "Righteous Authority."**
---
### **Decisions and New Paths**
With the mission complete, the group had to decide what to do next.
Options:
1. **Return to Sanctuary to rest and fortify their base.**
2. **Explore the city for supplies.**
3. **Investigate new radio signals for potential missions.**
Piper raised an eyebrow at Izuku.
**Piper:** *So, boss? What's the plan?*
Eri murmured softly, gazing up at her father with those big green eyes full of trust.
Whatever path they chose, Izuku knew he couldn't fail them.
---
End of Chapter 15.
(You decide that I'm running out of ideas)