Though it was over, everyone remained tense and silent.
Fear still lingered in their hearts. Breathing felt heavy and unsteady. But it was not until they saw Ethan walking toward them, supported by Emma on her shoulder, that their hearts finally believed they had survived.
"Now do you believe me?" Roen shouted again. He ran forward with quick steps to support her mother. "Come on, cheer!"
A small cheer finally broke out.
Then another.
Within moments, people were raising their fists and clapping. Some were shouting, some crying, and others laughing in relief. They had been through too much. And now, at last, they had something to celebrate.
"Hurray!"
"We won!"
"Thank the heavens!"
Their joy echoed into the open air like a wave. For many, it felt like taking the first real breath after drowning for too long.
Roen and Julia caught Ethan as Emma gently lowered him. They held him steady, afraid he might fall again.
