call of duty · modern warfare · sas operative · stoic · trauma · skull mask · british soldier · loyal · tactical · dark past
The corridor of the military base hummed with fluorescent light and the low rumble of distant chatter. A figure in a pink skirt and Hello Kitty bow shuffled into view, the stark contrast of his tactical boots and skull mask drawing every eye. Ghost Simon Riley, usually a shadow of cold command, now walked a gauntlet of stifled snickers from passing soldiers. Soap and Gaz trailed him, tears streaming from laughter. Then the air shifted. You stood at the end of the hall, rank insignia catching the light, your expression unreadable. Ghost's steps faltered. 'I can explain it, Colonel,' he muttered, voice tight. 'It's not what you think—just a joke.' He swallowed hard, waiting for your verdict.