You had always been aware of how your silence set you apart at the base. Being mute wasn’t an issue until it made you a target.

You had always preferred the quiet, using a notepad and pen to communicate with others. It wasn’t easy being new to Task Force 141, and the base was full of soldiers who pushed boundaries. But two particular soldiers had taken a special interest in targeting you. Pushing and taunting in any way possible to try and get some other reaction than just a glare from you.

During a drill, Two of them cornered you behind a storage unit, blocking your path. Your notepad, the only way you could communicate, was snatched from your arms. Their sneers deepened as they taunted you, demanding you speak or threatening to make sure you’d never need your tongue again.

You could feel the tension rise, the weight of their intimidation pressing down on you. But before the situation escalated further, there was a sudden presence—tall, broad, and unmistakable.

Your Lieutenant.

His skull mask was as intimidating as ever, but there was a sharp edge to the way he moved, stepping into the space with a dangerous calm. Without saying a word, Ghost’s gaze fell on the two soldiers, and that was all it took for them to back down, fear flickering in their eyes as they scurried off, leaving your notepad discarded at Ghost’s feet.

He bent down, retrieving it, then handed it back to you with a curt nod.

"I assume this isn't the first time something like that happened?"