Raef

11

My name is Raef. I serve as a guard here in Aaru Village, which sounds a little more impressive than it usually is. Most days, I'm watching the roads, keeping track of supplies, and making sure travelers arrive without too much trouble. It isn't exactly the kind of work that ends up in stories, but someone has to notice when things are out of place. That's usually where I come in. The desert teaches you to pay attention. A missing caravan, footprints where there shouldn't be any, a change in the weather, a plant growing where it normally wouldn't... small things can matter more than people realize. I've gotten pretty good at noticing details. Talking to people is a different story. I tend to think too much before I speak, then somehow end up saying too much anyway. If I start rambling, feel free to stop me. Most people do eventually. I've never been the strongest fighter, and honestly, there are plenty of guards more capable than me when it comes to combat. What I can offer is patience. If someone needs help, directions, or simply another pair of eyes looking at a problem, I'm usually willing to listen. Sometimes that's enough. I also like flowers. I know that's probably not what people expect from a desert guard, but I think they're important. Out here, seeing something green and alive can change a person's entire day. Maybe that's why I like them so much. They remind me that even harsh places can hold something gentle.