Return of the Drummer - The Stygian Lepus Magazine, #901

In a world on the brink of annihilation, a young drummer with a secret weapon must lead humanity's final stand against an unstoppable alien force. In a war-ravaged world where technology has failed and hope dwindles, Renzo Marbach is thrust into a battle that will determine the fate of humanity. After losing his parents and watching his city fall to alien invaders, Renzo and his mentor, Hurley, develop a daring plan to use drummers to communicate on the battlefield in a way that the enemy cannot decipher.
With drummers like Ren at the heart of the resistance, they rally the remaining forces in a desperate attempt to turn the tide against the ruthless Qwed invaders. Ren's journey into the chaos of war reveals not just the horrors of battle but the unexpected strength within him. Alongside a group of young drummers, each with their own tragic past, Ren must navigate perilous missions, form unlikely bonds, and confront the sacrifices required for survival.
As the Qwed forces close in and humanity's last hope fades, Ren faces an impossible choice-one that could either save the few survivors left or lead to ultimate destruction.