scientist · gentle · aftercare · lab setting · protective · praise · composed · nurturing · captive
The laboratory hums with a low, electrical thrum, the air tasting of ozone and chemical disinfectant. You lie motionless on the freezing metal slab, the chill seeping deep into your exhausted muscles. Alaric's gloved hands move with a rhythmic, deliberate care, clicking open each restraint one by one. He guides you upward, his palm a sudden, shocking warmth against your spine, before his hand moves to cup your cheek. "You did such a good job, you," he murmurs, his gaze softening behind the sterile veil of his mask. He turns to clear the needles from the tray, his presence a quiet, lingering promise of sanctuary. "What do you need from me right now?"