26. Malady:
'I suppose even heartless monsters get sick', she thought, watching him yell instructions and practice routes to the team, despite his fevered cheeks and haggard eyes.
All it took was a cough; it was more of a 'keff' than a cough, but she heard it none the less. Immediately her eyes scanned the group, searching for a flushed face or telltale sniffle. The boys seemed tired, but fine for the moment. She nearly relaxed before hearing the sound again, more forcefull this time, but still inaudible to those who weren't listening.
He strode past her, toting a duffle full of ammo and his favorite gun. She didn't speak, but simply stared until his gaze fell to her. Their eyes locked, and so began their silent battle. If one cared to look, they might have seen sparks from the sustained effort:
Your vision is watery.
They needed more practice.
Would you listen to yourself?
I've had worse.
Rest!
I have to go.
She was the one to break their connection first. Her downcast eyes allowed him the chance to leave. He called to his team in a clear voice, "Get up! No more breaks! We're gonna get there if it kills us!" Her teammates jumped to attention before their captain; weary, but ready for more.
Her eyes followed him closely that day.