INFERNAL PASSION

Forge of fortunes

Gabriel paced the length of the camp's edge, his eyes scanning the shadows that stretched from the flickering torches. The darkness seemed thicker tonight, as though it held its breath, waiting for something to break the silence. He felt the unease deep within him, an instinct that never allowed him to fully let down his guard. He could hear the muffled voices from the camp behind him, the sound of his people moving about, preparing for whatever the next day might bring. He tried to focus on that, on the mundane, but it did little to calm his mind.

A sudden voice broke his reverie, its familiar cadence bringing a flicker of warmth to his otherwise tense expression.

- Walking the perimeter again, Gabriel? - Diana's voice was gentle as she approached, her steps quiet against the ground.

Gabriel stopped pacing and turned to face her, his shoulders easing slightly at the sight of her. He managed a faint smile.

- I guess old habits die hard. Just making sure everything is in order.

Diana came closer, her eyes searching his face as she stopped a few steps away.

- You need rest as much as the rest of us do. No one can keep going without a break, not even you.

Gabriel looked away, his gaze once again drawn to the darkened forest beyond the camp.

- I know. But with everything happening... with the ritual, with the unknown threats... it's hard to find peace. I feel like if I stop, I'll lose sight of what's coming.

Diana shook her head, stepping closer, her voice soft yet firm.

- You won't lose sight. But you will wear yourself down to the point where you can't make good decisions. And we need you at your best, Gabriel. You've done more than enough tonight. Let us handle things for a while.

Gabriel looked at her, his gaze softening, a mix of gratitude and stubbornness in his eyes.

- You're right, as usual. I just don't know how to stop worrying. It's like a part of me now.

Diana smiled, reaching out to touch his arm lightly.

- Maybe it is. But even someone who worries needs rest. Come on, let's sit by the fire for a while. You can at least pretend you're not on duty for a few minutes.

Gabriel let out a reluctant chuckle, nodding as he allowed Diana to lead him back to the campfire. The warmth of the fire was a stark contrast to the chill that seemed to cling to the night, and Gabriel found himself relaxing slightly as they sat down. He watched the flames dance, their unpredictable movement somehow calming.

Raphael and Vincent were already sitting near the fire, their conversation stopping as Gabriel and Diana joined them. Vincent grinned, giving Gabriel an exaggerated look of surprise.

- Well, look who decided to take a break. I didn't think it was possible.

Gabriel rolled his eyes, though there was a trace of amusement in his voice.

- Don't get used to it. I'm only here because Diana made a convincing argument.

Vincent chuckled, glancing at Diana with an approving nod.

- Glad someone can talk some sense into him. We've been trying for ages.

Raphael smiled, his eyes glinting in the firelight.

- You know, Gabriel, we all appreciate what you do for us. But it's okay to let us take some of the weight. You're not in this alone.

Gabriel's gaze moved between them, the warmth of their support settling something inside him. He nodded, his voice softer now.