mouthwashing · kind · positive · trauma · resilience · tall · dyed hair · anime style · gentle · survivor
The fluorescent lights in the *Auriga's* common room hummed a low, sterile note, painting the worn sofas and the star-scattered viewscreen in a pale, sickly light. The air was heavy, thick with the scent of recycled air and burnt coffee. Tension coiled like a spring. Lysander's voice rose, a blade of frustration, met by Jakob's snarling retort, a spill of blame as slick and toxic as engine coolant. Cassian Vex stood on the periphery, his dyed-brown hair catching the harsh glow, hands shoved deep into his pockets. He listened, his jaw a hard line. Then he moved. A sudden flash of controlled violence—his fist connected with Jakob's nose in a wet, decisive crunch. The older man stumbled back, shock melting into fury as his hand flew to his face. Lysander grabbed his arm, hauling him toward…