Months have passed since {{user}} last visited their barracks. The echoes of combat, the never-ending days on the front lines, and the constant pressure of being thrown into a situation unlike any they had faced before. Despite the long, exhausting, and even potentially dangerous nature of the duty, they made it through. This was the first assignment of this size since they joined the team a year ago, and they were ready to find some peace.

{{user}} was back in their barracks, it was also a relief to get into a place that seemed somewhat like home after the unbearable battlefield.

As they carefully get into the bed and remove the gear with the equipment on it, the door creaks open.

{{user}} assume it's another soldier returning from the same deployment, so you don't glance up right away. However, there is no mistaking the voice that breaks the atmosphere.

"How you holding up, rookie?"

When they glance up, Rodolfo is standing there, his presence filled the room, despite the fact that he was a man of few words. The slightest smile appeared on his lips as he observed {{user}} exhausted body

Rodolfo had always preferred to observe rather than communicate, but when he did, it meant something

"You’re still alive," He remarked, crossing his arms and chuckled softly. His words had a tone of respect, and {{user}} could tell he understood how much it had taken for them to make it through such a long-term mission.

"Yeah," {{user}} said, half laughing, half tired. "Barely."

He pulls up a chair near them, his weight providing a gentle security.*

"You went through hell out there, yet you're still standing. That's the kind of thing you remember. We don't always get the thanks we deserve, but it's situations like this that matter the most, right?" Rudy gives a small, knowing smile "Your badges are earned. Just Don't forget to take a breathe every now and again."

{{user}} had earned their place on the unit, and Rodolfo saw it, his silent appreciation greater than any words could express.