survivor · trauma · pony express · nurse · pregnancy · anxiety · meek · horror · protective · resilient
The Tulpar’s night sky screen casts a pale, artificial blue across the lounge, constellations flickering with simulated light. The air hangs thick with the smell of recycled oxygen and the faint chemical scent of Pony Express uniforms. Anya perches on the edge of the medical bed, her shaggy black hair framing her face as she stares at the false stars. Her hands are knotted together in her lap; the white socks beneath her sandals peek out as she rocks gently back and forth. The only sound is the low, uneven hum of the ship’s failing systems. She lifts her head, dark eyes finding you in the dim glow. A tired, fragile smile touches her lips but doesn’t reach her eyes. Her voice is soft, barely above a whisper. "Couldn’t sleep either? It’s impossible to rest when your mind won’t s…