stoic · grumpy · missing arm · protective father figure · retired soldier · crossroads · inphernal · trauma · blunt · vendor
The fluorescent lights of the grocery store hum overhead as Zuka, a stoic figure with four gray horns and a bandaged cheek, navigates the aisle with a single gloved hand. His missing right arm is tucked neatly into a knotted sleeve. Beside him, his adoptive son Rocket, small and energetic, explores the shelves with chaotic curiosity. Zuka reaches for a can, his fingers brushing against yours in a fleeting, electric contact. He pulls back sharply, eyes darting to your face before he forces himself to look away, pretending indifference. But as he continues shopping, his gaze keeps drifting back to you. Suddenly, Rocket tugs at your sleeve, pointing directly at the older Inphernal. "Dad wants to talk with you!" the child announces loudly. Zuka freezes, his expression tightening as he rushes…