The day began quietly but carried an electric buzz of anticipation. Duke's grandma's small neighborhood store—a cozy, slightly worn yet warm place filled with memories and the scent of herbs and home-cooked food—was the setting for an unusual celebration. Today wasn't the birthday of just one, but two Daniels: Little Daniel and Big Daniel.
Word had spread throughout Burn Knuckles, and the entire crew, along with Mira, Zoe, Vasco, Jace, Jay, Zack, and others, had gathered to honor the occasion. The modest space bustled with laughter and chatter, the air thick with a sense of family.
The moment Daniel entered the store in his smaller body, the older woman who ran the place immediately noticed. Her eyes twinkled as she looked up from the counter.
"Is it your birthday today, Daniel?" she asked softly, a knowing smile creasing her face.
Little Daniel nodded shyly, a flush creeping up his cheeks.
"Well then," she said with a gentle smile, "I have something special for you." From a small box on the shelf, she pulled out a delicate handwoven bracelet, its threads a blend of faded reds and greens—a simple yet beautiful craft made during her quiet hours.
She held it out. "I made this myself. It's not much, but it carries my blessings."
Little Daniel's fingers trembled as he took the bracelet. Holding it up to the light, memories surged—his own mother's sacrifices, the warmth of maternal love, and the struggles they had faced. For a moment, the smaller Daniel's stoic façade broke, a flicker of vulnerability showing through.
The big Daniel, sharing the same mind and emotions, took over and expressed what the little body couldn't: gratitude, humility, and a deep, aching thankfulness. Tears welled up in his eyes—not just for the bracelet, but for the kindness radiating from Duke's grandma, a reminder of his mother's love.
Witnessing this quiet emotional exchange, Vasco's usual tough exterior softened. He exchanged glances with Jace, Zack, and the others, all feeling the same warmth seep into their hearts. The hardened Burn Knuckles gang was reminded once again why they fought—not for power or pride, but to protect the light in others.
Vasco broke the silence with a low chuckle. "You know, this old lady's kindness could put even the coldest hearts to shame."
To lighten the mood and repay the kindness, the entire group eagerly volunteered to help Grandma around the store.
The burliest members of Burn Knuckles set about cleaning the cramped storeroom and sweeping the floor with surprising care. Their large hands and muscles—usually seen in fists or fights—now moved with gentle purpose.
Mira and Zoe teamed up, chopping vegetables and preparing ingredients with nimble fingers. Zoe's meticulous nature, honed through cooking at home, ensured every slice was perfect, while Mira hummed a soft tune, lifting spirits. Listening to Mira's humming, Zack was fully captivated and couldn't look anywhere else. Seeing Zack's loving gaze, Mira blushed. While these two shared their quiet moment slightly apart, tears flowed from Vasco's eyes as Jace consoled him, which made everyone else erupt in laughter.
Meanwhile, Little Daniel set up a small cooking station in the back of the store. Known in the neighborhood for his exceptional culinary skills, he prepared to cook a meal nothing short of a feast—flavors that could rival even the finest restaurants.
As the aroma of sizzling garlic, spices, and fresh vegetables began to fill the air, the other boys gathered, their mouths already watering.
"Dude, you really cook better than any 5-star chef I've ever met," Jace joked, to which everyone from Burn Knuckles, including Sword Demon and the rest, hummed in acknowledgment while rubbing their bellies.
Zack laughed, "I'm gonna have to work out twice as hard after this."
Daniel smiled modestly, eyes gleaming with quiet pride. This was his way of giving back—his own unique strength shining through.
The meal was served in simple bowls and plates, but to everyone, it felt like a banquet. Between bites, the group shared stories—their struggles, hopes, and the moments that defined them.
Duke's grandma sat quietly in the corner, watching the scene with a satisfied smile. She saw how far these young men had come, how their lives intertwined, bound by the power of friendship and kindness. While witnessing the pure bond between these boys and girls, she also thought about her Duke and prayed that he too could always be happy like these friends of his.
As the meal ended, the group settled around the small tables. The mood was tender, almost sacred.
Vasco leaned back, eyes soft, and mumbled to Jace, who was nearby, "You know, having people like this... it's more than just friendship. It's family."
Jace nodded, "Yeah. In this world, that's what really matters."
Mira reached over, squeezing Zoe's hand. "We're lucky to have each other. No matter what comes."
Daniel, with his Little Daniel and Big Daniel bodies combined, caught everyone's happy expressions and felt truly warm. Without words, they both shared the same thought: This—this is what makes life beautiful.
As the sun began to set outside the small store, the group stood together for a moment, basking in the warmth of the day.
Duke's grandma, thinking about her grandson Duke, let out a gentle laugh and said, "You boys remind me why I keep this store open. It's not just about selling things—it's about the love and kindness we share."
Daniel, still wearing the bracelet, thought of his mother, his friends, and the journey ahead.
No matter what battles lie ahead, he mused, with people like these by my side, I'm truly blessed.
The birthday celebration ended with gifts, as everyone gave something to both Daniels. Vasco and Burn Knuckles presented Burn Knuckles-themed jackets to both Daniels. To others, it might have been just jackets, but to the Daniels, it meant much more—the thought behind the gift and the emotional attachment mattered most in life. Zack, Mira, Zoe—everyone gave something of emotional value to both Daniels as a memento of these moments. Only Jay, very shyly, told Daniel to look at his house after reaching home, since he had secretly given many luxurious clothes, shoes, rings, watches, and all fashionable items in such large numbers that multiple wardrobes might be filled with them. He had even already prepared all the documents of land acquisition to help Daniel realize his dream of opening a dojo—it was just that he hadn't told Daniel yet.
Daniel truly felt very happy for all their emotional involvement in his birthday. He felt blessed to have them, and after enjoying their day together, each one bade farewell, ending the day this way.