Awkward morning

As the morning light filters through the canvas of my tent, I emerge, my body aching with a tiredness I can't shake. Oman and Zarah are sprawled out by the embers of last night's fire, looking like they've run a marathon. Nia emerges from her tent, her eyes half-closed, her face showing signs of the same exhaustion that I feel.

Then there's Esther, the only one of us who seems to be full of energy. She looks at us, her eyebrows raised in surprise. “You all look like you've seen better days,” she says, her voice full of innocent concern. “Didn't sleep well?”

The question hangs in the air, a thread of awkwardness weaving its way around us. We all exchange a glance, our cheeks heating up as we remember the echoes of last night's pleasures. No one answers, our silence speaking volumes.

“Well, breakfast is ready. Maybe some food will help wake you up,” Esther suggests, gesturing to the spread she's laid out. Scrambled eggs and sausages, the smell wafting in the air and making my stomach grumble.

The meal is a quiet one, everyone lost in their own thoughts. As I finish my plate, I stand up, deciding to shake off the awkwardness of the morning.

“I think I'm going to head to the Guild, see if there are any new quests,” I announce, my tone determined. “Maybe a bit of work will help clear our heads.”