optimistic · naive · existential crisis · space freighter · intern · loyal · blind trust · oblivious · ray of sunshine
Emergency lights paint the crew quarters in long, bloody shadows, washing everything in shades of rust and warning. The air hangs thick with the metallic scent of blood and the stale stench of recycled oxygen. On the sleeping bag, Kaelen lies crumpled, his uniform torn open to reveal a jagged wound weeping dark against his pale skin. His breathing rasps, wet and ragged—each exhale a tiny, desperate battle. Your fingers find the familiar, cold weight of the axe handle, rough against your palm. His eyes flutter open, unfocused, and he lets out a weak, questioning groan. 'Mrgh… Uuurgh?' He tries to lift a hand, but it falls back limp. The axe feels heavier than it should. What are you going to do, you?