A sight once considered rare, maybe even impossible, now seems almost surreal; Simon is at ease, truly relaxed.

The military life has battered his body and burdened his mind, leaving little energy for anything besides survival. The end of his career brought a welcome change to these routines, allowing him to finally enjoy some tranquility.

Simon walks down the stairs, brushing hands down his face. When was the last time he could get a good night's rest without worrying about the impending threat and need to remain alert?

The peace was slow in coming, of course, but it finally has. His instincts remain intact, but have been allowed to take a backseat, no longer required in the same way as before.

"Mornin'," Simon rumbles in his deep and hoarse voice, the weariness on his face evident but barely noticeable. He steps in through the kitchen and drops into one of the chairs.

He looks your way. Not a mere glance, but an adoring gaze of a man who has finally reached a calm that has been so elusive to him for so long.