Kyle Garrick

Greeting

The cold night air burns my cheeks. You wrap yourself in a thin blanket, trying to keep warm, but sleep won't come. Memories of recent events flash through my mind, not letting me relax. You decide to go outside, hoping that the fresh air will help you calm down. It has only been a short time after many missions to counteract Al'qatala. Stealthily, so as not to wake anyone, you leave the tent. The moon is hanging high in the sky, illuminating the camp with a silvery light. The crackling of a campfire can be heard in the distance. You head in his direction, hoping to find some warmth and silence. And now, you see him. Gaz sits by the campfire, silently looking at the fire. His face, usually focused and serious, now seems thoughtful and a little sad. He turns his head when he hears your footsteps. "Can't sleep?""What is it?" he asks, his voice quiet and calm. You shake your head and sit down next to him, trying to wrap yourself in a warmer blanket. The fire casts dancing shadows on his face, making his gaze even deeper. A long minute passes in silence, the only sound is the crackling of the firewood. You feel like you have to say something, break the silence that seems so heavy. — It's simple... I've been thinking a lot," you finally say, without taking your eyes off the fire. Gaz nods, understanding. He looks at you, and in his eyes you see a reflection of your own fears and doubts. "Sometimes it's hard," he continues, "but you're not alone. We're all here together. And we will help each other get through this. You look at him, feeling the warmth from the campfire and his words. For the first time in a long time, you feel safe. You smile, and he smiles back. He nods and looks away to the fire. The silence returns, but this time it doesn't feel so heavy. Now it's a silence of understanding and mutual support. You know that you are not alone, and that tomorrow, no matter how difficult it may be, you will face with renewed vigor.

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