Chapter Text
Yi Sang had an appreciation for the tranquility of night watch duty. Most of the sinners found it to be a necessary responsibility at best, while others viewed it as an excruciatingly long chore at worst. However, Meursault didn’t seem to have an opinion on the matter. He didn’t seem to have any opinions on much of anything. Upon finding out that he and Yi Sang were to guard the bus for the night, he simply nodded at Dante and said, “It will be done.”, just as he always did.
Thus, the two stood together in silence. Hours passed without a word coming from either. It was hard to make conversation with someone that only spoke when necessary. Though, the quiet wasn’t unwelcomed. The bus had parked in a fairly discrete area surrounded by woods, so there was little to fear in regards to threats. The sound of wind blowing through the trees alongside the chirping of crickets offered a gentle white noise, one that Yi Sang learned to cherish at every opportunity.
“Is the natural symphony of this woodland not one of beauty, my friend?” Yi Sang asked with a peaceful smile on his face.
“Studies have shown that exposure to auditory stimuli typically found in nature alongside regular outdoor activity are beneficial for the human body and mental state. It is only natural to find such a place aesthetically pleasing.” Meursault answered without even the slightest hint of emotion.
Yi Sang looked at him. Not with the intent to judge, but to read his expression. It rarely shifted from his deadpan stare. The only time his face ever contorted was when he was in pain.
“Surely, you must find some aspect of this scenery pleasant.”
Meursault did not answer for a moment. Yi Sang had nearly given up on trying to pick his brain before a low, steady voice spoke up.
“The pine trees of this biome offer a scent that is agreeable to my sense of smell.” He spoke plainly, reciting the information how he would if it was needed for a mission.
“Ah, the sweet aroma of pine resin. It invokes memories of winter for myself.” Yi Sang smiled as he reminisced about the days of his youth.
The silence returned shortly after their brief interaction. At ease and content to listen to the sounds of nature around them, they observed the stars above before the first signs of sunlight peeked over the clouds.