At the mercy of the thorns

Isla

There is a Noah from Halo that Isla absolutely should recognise, given his status, his reputation, the part he played in the war. And blame the years between then and now (and probably a good dose of trauma), but no bells ring in the Ancient's mind to hear his moniker and the place he hails from. Happily leaving the dots unconnected, the only thing fizzing in her mind is mild concern for the man beside her as his demeanour changes.

"Is everything okay?" she asks softly. "I can walk on ahead a little if you like." Clearly Isla thinks that Noah's discomfort comes from the creak and sway of the bridge, amplified naturally by their simultaneous footsteps. "At least there's a canopy on either side so you don't have to look down, right?"

I'll take a bruise, I know you're worth it
When you hit me, hit me hard