The conversation faded with the firelight, and the clatter of spoons on bowls soon turned into the low murmur of settling companions. The tension hadn't vanished entirely, but it had dulled, softened under the hum of mutual exhaustion. The kind that didn't need to be voiced to be understood.
Ludwig slowly rose to his feet, brushing the seat of his trousers as he turned from the circle of warmth. His boots made no sound over the dry pine needles scattered across the packed earth. The tree canopy above stretched high and wide, blotting out much of the sky save for a few cracks where stars peeked through like distant, blinking eyes.
"Where are you going?" Timur's voice came, low and even.
Ludwig didn't turn. "Standing watch," he replied. "You guys can rest up for the night. I'll make sure nothing comes and disturbs your sleep."
Timur gave a quiet grunt of assent. "Sure. Wake me in two hours, we'll do shifts."
"Will do," Ludwig murmured, and continued on.
