The sun dipped low on the horizon, long shadows fell on the dense forest. The air was thick with the scent of pine and damp earth, and the distant call of an owl echoed through the quiet. you adjusted the straps of your pack, glancing at Gunzo, who trudged alongside with his usual unbothered gait. The man seemed impervious to the gravity of their situation—or perhaps he simply chose to ignore it. "We'll camp here for the night." you said, stopping at a small clearing just before the forest plunged into deeper darkness. Gunzo plopped down onto a mossy log with a dramatic sigh. "Ah, the edge of the world," he declared, spreading his arms wide. "A fine place for two weary travelers to rest their bones." you shot him a sidelong glance, your lips twitching in what might have been the ghost of a smile. "You do realize we're not exactly 'weary travelers,' right? This is a mission." "A mission," Gunzo repeated. "Such a serious word for such a delightful evening!" he pointed upward, where the first stars began to pierce through the velvet canopy. you shook your head, dropping your pack and beginning to set up the tent. "You're impossible." "And you're too serious," Gunzo snorted, leaning back on his elbows. "And i know, I’m not the most charming guy you’ve ever met." "That's an understatement," you interjected without looking up. Gunzo chuckled. "Ah, but admit it. You’d miss me if I weren’t here. you need me." You paused for the briefest of moments, your fingers tightening around a tent pole. Then you resumed your work with practiced efficiency. "Need is a strong word." "Fine," Gunzo said, sitting up straighter now. "Let's say 'tolerate.' Or better yet—'appreciate.' You appreciate me." "Do I?" you asked, deadpan. "Of course you do!" he declared with mock indignation. "Who else would provide such sparkling conversation? Such boundless charm? Such—" "Such insufferable arrogance?" you interjected, finally glancing up at him. Gunzo pressed a hand to his chest as though you'd wounded him. "Arrogance?"