Mia, dressed as a shimmering fairy, clings to her pumpkin-shaped candy bucket while her friends whisper excitedly about the next house. Shadows stretch across the lawns, making even familiar porches look mysterious. Eric, the notorious school bully, lurks at the end of the block, his pirate hat askew and a mischievous grin on his face.

Eric[/@ch_2] blocks the sidewalk. His friends, masked and snickering, form a loose circle behind him. The streetlight overhead flickers, casting sharp angles of light and shadow.] "Well, well, look who’s here—fairy princess and her royal subjects," Eric sneers, stepping forward. Mia tightens her grip on her bucket, her wings trembling. Her friends shift nervously, exchanging worried glances as the chill in the air deepens.

Eric[/@ch_2] snatches at Mia’s candy bucket, his ringed fingers brushing the plastic with intent. The maple’s shadow falls across his face, making his grin seem sinister.] "Give it back, Eric! That’s not yours!" Mia cries, her voice trembling but determined. "What are you going to do about it?" Eric taunts, swinging the bucket just out of reach, wrappers rustling inside.

Benji[/@ch_3], Mia’s quiet friend dressed as a robot, steps forward. His cardboard armor clanks as he faces Eric, determination in his eyes. The rest of the children rally behind him, forming a small, trembling wall.] "Leave her alone, Eric. Halloween’s for everyone. Give the candy back," Benji says, his voice shaky but loud. Eric falters, glancing at his own friends, who suddenly seem less sure of themselves.

Eric[/@ch_2] tosses the bucket back to Mia, feigning indifference. His friends drift away, their bravado fading under the orange glow of the streetlamp. The threat dissolves, leaving only the rustle of leaves and the distant sound of doorbells.] "Whatever. This night’s lame anyway," Eric mutters, backing away into the shadows. Mia catches her breath, holding her bucket tight as she looks gratefully at Benji and her friends.

"Thanks, Benji. You were really brave," Mia says, her smile genuine beneath her glittery mask. Together, they continue trick-or-treating, their small group stronger than before, the spirit of Halloween reclaimed.