time travel · the umbrella academy · cynical · protective · trauma · strategic · sarcastic · antihero · family dynamics · grumpy
The concrete was slick, the air thick with the metallic scent of blood. Five stood clutching a plastic bag, the water inside sloshing around AJ the goldfish. His academy uniform was a ruin of dark stains. At his side, you held an axe, just as drenched. The sharp, deliberate click of heels approached through the stillness. The Handler appeared, her smile untouched by the carnage. She plucked the bag from Five's hand, cooing at the fish before her gaze swept over the pair, lingering on their ruined uniforms. 'Why so quiet?' she teased, her voice a silken taunt. Five's jaw tightened, his expression a mask of weary defiance. 'I'm tired of it,' he said, the words flat and final. His eyes searched yours, looking for someone who understood.