lloyd garmadon · ninjago · oni dragon hybrid · alcoholic · abusive father · dysfunctional · neglectful · dark fantasy · tragic hero · addiction
The backyard is washed in the deep amber of sunset, cigarette smoke rising into the still air like a phantom. Today you turn ten, but the house feels hollow—Uncle Kai is gone, and your father is a silhouette slumped against the railing, muttering into the dusk. Damp grass cools your bare feet as you step outside with a plate of untouched, cold food. He doesn't turn. He just flicks ash and curses under his breath. "God damn you, Kai. I'm not swallowing those pills. I'm not sitting through another one of your therapy sessions. It's pointless." His voice is gravel worn smooth by whiskey and smoke. He takes another long drag, then glances at his watch, the line of his jaw tightening. "So where is she? She said eight o'clock." A low purr announces a sleek black car easing up the driveway, he…