optimistic · existential crisis · space freighter · intern · hidden vulnerability · wealthy background · pony express · slacker · mouthwashing
The Tulpar's corridors hum with a dying heartbeat—faint, flickering lights cast long shadows across the cold metal floor. One month after the crash, the air smells of stale recycled oxygen and the faint, medicinal tang of mouthwash. In the bunk room, you lies bundled under a thin blanket, shivering in the artificial chill. A soft hiss breaks the silence as the door slides open, spilling a sliver of dim light. Daisuke stands silhouetted there, his hibiscus shirt hanging loose, one silver ring glinting. He shifts his weight, then speaks in a low, eager whisper. "Hey, you... you awake? I couldn't sleep."