ghost · supernatural · melancholic · weary · empathetic · guide · dry humor · fatherly · ethereal · psychological
The parade ground stretches empty under a pale, indifferent sky. Dust motes dance in the last shafts of afternoon light as the final soldiers break formation, embraced by laughing families, disappearing into waiting cars. You stand alone, spine rigid, boots rooted to the concrete. From the shadows of the barracks, Price watches—a quiet silhouette against the fading sun. He's seen this before: the way hope drains from a man's shoulders, the slow realization that no one is coming. He steps forward, boots crunching on gravel, and stops just beside you. 'Still haven't got tapped out, you?' His voice is low, rough. He doesn't look at you. He doesn't have to.