SOTF Archive/SOTF Classic

Maxim nodded. Ben's words didn't warrant further response, so that was the best he could do. At least the guy seemed to have calmed down. It had only been a few seconds, a shameful display of insecurity, but just a few seconds nonetheless. If it was going to stay at just that, then all the better. But somehow, he doubted it.

He sighed and took another bite of his bread. They were wasting time and energy with this drivel, all they really needed to do was eat, search, sleep. In that order. And set up someone to take watch, of course, but that would take a minute at best, so no concern there. In fact, they could determine it right now, no need to procrastinate.

Maxim took a quick glance at his friend. It wasn't by much, but his confidence in him had still been shaken nonetheless. What if he'd have another sudden bout of useless self-doubts? Maybe he was making mountains out of molehills, but there was room for reasonable doubt here. And as much as he'd have liked to just go and lie down and rest, logic was dictating a different path.

Of course, Ben could still have a similar freak-out on second watch or any time after that. But if he got to sleep a little before having to do his duty, then maybe the chances of that happening were lowered significantly. Maxim would just have to trust that that would be the case. As much as he hated leaving things up to chance.

He sighed, though without actually making a sound. "I'll take first watch."

((Maxim Kehlenbrink continued elsewhere))

Ben turned his head in suprise. "Are... uh, thanks", he said, trying to sound appreciative. Truth be told, he was a little disappointed in himself for not volunteering to do it first. After Maxim having helped him calm down he would have liked to thank him by letting him sleep first. Besides, he had a few things to think through. But he wasn't going to argue with Maxim now, not when he was deciding so decisively and selflessly, so as to make sure Ben could recover from his little crisis. Sometimes the polite thing to do was let yourself be cared for, so the people who cared for you could have peace of mind.

He took one last bite of bread and stilled his hunger. He also took a swig of water, though he wasn't that thirsty. Then he stood up and hung his bag over his shoulder. "I suppose we should start searching the building."

(Benjamin Lichter continues in Song for a Warrior)