We walked through the crowds and tents, down paths - heading towards an area full of proper buildings in the distance. Marv and Chen were greeted with smiles, handshakes and the occasional question about food, plans, or tasks. People didn’t stare at me, despite me being covered in only a blanket. Instead, if they caught my eye they would give me a gentle smile or reassuring nod before getting on with their tasks. I suppose they must be used to new people, I made a mental note to ask Marv about it later. “When you said base, I was picturing…” I said tentatively, not knowing how to explain without insulting them. “A couple of tents, a hole in the ground for a toilet and people telling ghost stories around a campfire?” Chen asked, raising her eyebrow. That was almost exactly like I had

