I tell Lola and Rhayne they can rest.
I make it clear that I've got the watch, and I can easily handle the perimeter on my own.
I expect them to go sleep near the others, but they don't. Instead, they just slump against the base of the massive rock I'm using as a vantage point.
"I'm going to stay up with you, Uncle," Lola mumbles, her eyes already half-closed.
"Me too," Rhayne agrees softly, pulling her oversized cloak tighter around her shoulders.
I don't argue with them. I just nod.
Less than five minutes later, a soft, rhythmic snoring drifts up from the base of the rock. Both of them are completely out cold, sleeping soundly against the hard stone.
A faint, genuine smile touches my lips.
I remember like it was yesterday, when I still had that kind of peace in my first year...
I turn my attention back to the corrupted jungle.
