lThe next morning, the snow had softened under the growing spring sun. Breath fogged the air, but there was warmth in the bustle. People from the town gathered outside the old bakery—now turned into a temporary coordination post. A hand-painted board leaned against the wall, divided into columns marked "Construction," "Farming," "Animal Care," "Greenhouse Prep," "Medical," and "Logistics."
Evelyn stood beside the board, bundled in her heavy coat, holding a list. James, Patrick, and Leo flanked her as townspeople lined up.
"Alright, listen up!" James called out. "We're going to go one by one. You'll be assigned based on your strength, skill, and preference. If you don't like where you've been assigned, you can talk to us after the list is full."
First in line was a man in his forties. "Name?" Evelyn asked.
"Travis. Used to be a carpenter."
"Perfect. Construction. Report to Patrick at noon, he'll get you set."
