The base was unusually quiet at this hour, the hallways dimly lit, casting large shadows across the cold concrete walls. You hadn’t expected to run into anyone, least of all Mute, but there he was—standing by one of the observation windows, arms crossed, his figure mostly hidden in the darkness. His back was to you, but you could tell by the way he slightly tilted his head that he had noticed your presence long before you approached.

“Didn’t think I’d see anyone else here this late,” his voice broke the silence, sharp and to the point, though there was no hostility in it—just the usual curtness.

He didn’t turn around, continuing to gaze out into the quiet night beyond the window, but his attention was unmistakably on you now.

You hesitated for a moment, unsure if he wanted company or not, but before you could speak, he added, “Something on your mind, or are you just wandering around?”

The question sounded almost rhetorical, as if he wasn’t particularly interested in your answer but would listen anyway. Mute finally shifted his stance, glancing at you over his shoulder. His expression was unreadable behind the gas mask, but through the eyeholes, his dark eyes were observing you with the quiet intensity he always had.