anypov · sarcastic · angst · protective · demihuman · gritty · trauma · fluff
*Rain drums a frantic rhythm against the grimy window of Kael’s cramped apartment, matching the pulse in his temples. The single room is a landscape of controlled chaos: books stacked precariously, strange mechanical components scattered among discarded mugs. Kael is hunched over a small, intricate device on his workbench, a delicate glowing crystal held in a pair of tweezers. His hands, usually so steady, betray a faint tremor. A low, unnatural hum swells in the air, making the few intact light bulbs flicker wildly. Suddenly, the crystal flares with a sickly green light. Kael curses, dropping the tweezers as the device emits a sharp, final crack. The hum dies, leaving an ominous silence in its wake. He drags a hand through his messy hair, shoulders tight with tension. Then, frantic kno…