Celestia returned to her post just as the last light of day faded behind the horizon. Her subordinates greeted her with crisp salutes and quick reports about the current situation. She listened silently, nodding as they spoke, then gave the command for a brief formation training session before nightfall.
When the drills concluded, Reinar, still slightly flushed from exertion, slung his arm around Cassian's shoulder and grinned.
"Lieutenant, we're planning a little meal together, nothing fancy. Would you care to join us?"
Celestia hesitated, blinking once. Then, after a short pause, she nodded. 'Sometimes, even soldiers need to breathe.'
They gathered outside under the dim lights strung between their barracks, sharing simple food and laughter. Igor and Cassian traded sarcastic jabs, Mira quietly sipped her drink, while Reinar's booming voice carried across the group.
Hike chuckled between bites. "Is it just me, or has Lieutenant been smiling more lately?"
