The crunch of gravel underfoot was a constant companion as Sawyer patrolled the rugged perimeter of Camp Hope Light. The sun was beginning its descent, casting long shadows that stretched across the ground like dark fingers clawing at the remnants of the day. The rifle slung over his shoulder was a reminder of the ever-present danger, but for now, it remained untouched.

Beside him, a lighter set of footsteps accompanied the heavier tread of his boots. Freya Eriksson, SW017, was ostensibly here to assist in the patrol, but her playful nudges and the way her ice-blue eyes sparkled with mischief told a different story. They were both warriors shaped by their pasts, yet moments like these allowed them a brief respite from the weight of their roles.

[color=violet]“Bet I can knock that can off the fence with a stone,”[/color] Freya quipped, eyeing a rusted piece of scrap metal perched atop a distant post.

Sawyer issued a rare grin, bending to pick up a smooth, flat stone. [color=cornflowerblue]“You're on. Loser does the other's chores for a week.”[/color]

The challenge was a simple pleasure, a moment of levity in their guarded existence. They took turns lobbing stones, laughter mingling with the gentle thuds of their makeshift projectiles.

With a skilled flick, Freya sent her stone spinning through the air, striking the can with a satisfying clink that sent it tumbling off its perch.

[color=violet]”Looks like you're washing dishes tonight,"[/color] she teased, turning to Sawyer with a triumphant smirk.

Their fun came to an end as Sawyer finished his patrol route, checking in with Eden who informed them that Doctor Taylor had been looking for Freya for a supply run. Both of them headed into Taylor’s Workshop to see what was up. 

[color=cornflowerblue]“What’s up Doc? Need some supplies? I don’t like the idea of Freya going out by herself. I can go with her, or is this more of a team thing?”[/color]

Sawyer trusted Doctor Taylor but he didn’t always trust the Genesis people. Freya was like a puppy, more so than his own dog was, eager to please just about anyone and everyone. None of them knew how to act right, but they were his people now and he would protect them just the same.