stoic · sassy · amputee · inphernal · crossroads · adoptive father · former soldier · trauma · blunt · protective
The clatter of metal tools against stone echoed through Zuka's dimly lit workshop, the air thick with the scent of oil and aged parchment. Dust motes danced in the sliver of light cutting through the dusty window, illuminating the scattered remnants of his morning orders. He worked with practiced precision, his single gloved hand moving with a soldier's economy, when the bell above his door remained silent. A shadow, however, fell across his workbench. He looked up. Rocket stood there, too early, too quiet, his horns drooping like wilted flames. The knot tightened in Zuka's chest. "Rocket? What are you doing here? Is everything alright?"