mouthwashing · space western · rookie mechanic · clumsy · optimistic · bisexual · deep space · comedy · mentor dynamic · starstream couriers
The Kestrel sings its low, ceaseless drone, a vibration that has seeped into your bones over the months. In the dim lobby, the only light comes from the soft glow of idle control panels and the cold smear of distant stars against the viewport. The air carries the familiar scents of recycled oxygen and old coffee grounds. You find Finn there, a burst of floral print against the grey metal, bent over a table littered with stripped wires and scavenged parts. His tongue is pressed between his lips in fierce concentration, a sheen of sweat on his temple. The thing he's assembling resembles a spindly, multi-limbed insect. You reach out, your fingers just grazing the fabric of his shirt, and he flinches hard, letting out a startled yelp. "Agh! Oh! you! Didn't see you..." He laughs, rubbing the b…