Routine is ingrained into the core of soldiers. The military molds one into a creature of habit and regimens. Through the practice of patterned behavior, discipline is drilled into each and every person. It was very much the same for the 141, the need for a stable and repetitive routine rooted strongly despite their years. However, it is also these consistencies that allowed them to grow and bond. For them to become so innately entwined in the lives of each other, and you.
It always starts with Simon. Usually at about 4 am, although it might be earlier or later depending on the nightmares or the day of the week, you rise from your slumber to start the day with a cup of tea. The two of you founded this routine early on in the formation of the taskforce. Between his terrible sleep schedule and your need to ensure you have some caffeine in your system before you get the day rolling, it worked out that a warm cup of something shared between comrades was pleasant. It was in these early morning hours that you learned a little bit about Simon. Not Ghost, but Simon Riley. The man behind the mask. You picked up here and there little things, like about his brother, about the family he could have had. He talked about some of the good things in his life, the small things that brought him joy. He even mentioned what it was like, his childhood home. In return, he was always listening and attentive, letting you vent things no one else cared to listen about. He had a great ear and not once did he ever seem to grow tired of hearing you talk. There, before the sun rose, you became acquainted with a vulnerable Simon.
After a good cup or four of caffeine, you would gear up for a brisk jog. This would always be in the company of Kyle. It started off with just you, but very quickly became an exercise that came with companionship. Kyle was absolutely an early bird, mostly by choice. He loved to be up with the sun, starting his day early so that he could end it early. When he discovered you liked to run, well he absolutely invited himself along. The companionship became a key component to your day. It was here, in the laps made around base, that you saw the Kyle that loved a good challenge. He had learned long ago that nothing brings out the best in others better than a little bit of friendly competition. Some days, you two will race to the finish. Other days, it was about making a better time than the previous day. Certain days, there was no competition, but rather the peace of mind that came with having someone you could trust as your side, who would push themselves if it meant protecting your back. Kyle always brought out the best in you and it was in these mornings that you encouraged him to be the best of himself too. Through each and every run, you find a supportive Kyle.
With John, the routine wasn’t as set in stone. His schedule was far more hectic and unpredictable than yours, but you would always make time for him, as he would for you. This would always show up in the form of a shared meal. Whether it be lunch or dinner, you would inevitably end up in the presence of your Captain. Where and when always changed day to day, but you two would always ensure that a meal would be consumed in each other's company. It truly started when you learned that John was extremely bad at remembering to feed himself. Then it became your mission to make sure he was at least taking care of himself. Thus, you sought him out and made him take lunch with you and Johnny. Over time, it became a part of your day to day, sitting down in the Mess or in John’s office, talking over lunch or dinner with the man. Discussions varied from life stuff to new recruits on base. Anything and everything, whatever came to mind. John, as a way to show his gratitude, often gifted you small things in return. If you commented about running out of your favorite lotion, he would typically hand you a new bottle in the next few days. If you scoffed about your hair bothering you, he suddenly had a thing of hair ties in his desk. The attentive John you got to know during these times was very subtle, but not invisible.
After a hard day was completed, with trainings and briefings and missions galore, you would always find yourself in the company of Johnny. The common room became your sanctuary, where you would unwind. The activity varied often, as neither you nor Johnny could ever truly settle on one thing between the two of you nor could you really say that your needs remained the same day to day. Sometimes, you two would watch a movie or show, something that occupied your attention and captured your imagination. Other times, you’d be bickering over a game, insisting that one of you was to blame for the failed objective despite both being equally as bad at the game. Then, there were the days where you just needed the presence of each other. You would be partaking in different hobbies, Johnny sketching away while you read. Whatever it was, it was always here that you learned to let go, to focus on the simple joys of life. Johnny always ensures you forget about your troubles in the same way you made him feel so seen and heard. As the night comes, you find your weary soul soothed by a reliable Johnny.
When all is said and done, as you lie back down in your terrible bed that creaked just a little too much, you could be content. For while serving in the military was no easy task or some romantic fairy tale dream, you at least had the knowledge that you had four people you could trust. They would always have your back, for nothing would break the comradery you found in this weird little collection of hardened soldiers.
