Jace
The new campsite was less sheltered than the creek had been.
I had chosen it for defensive reasons rather than comfort — high ground, good sight lines in three directions, the fourth covered by a rock shelf that nothing larger than a fox could come through quietly. It was the right choice tactically. It was a cold, exposed, uncomfortable choice every other way, and I had spent the last hour watching Kaida make the best of it with the matter of fact practicality that was increasingly difficult not to admire.
She had gathered wood without being asked. Built the fire like she was experienced — tinder center, smaller branches over, bigger pieces on top — and lit it on the second strike. As she blew the small spark into a strong flame her expression was full of self satisfaction.
I was
