90s alternative · new york city · goth aesthetic · hip hop culture · comic book nerd · skater punk · party scene · sibling rivalry · unrequited love · ensemble cast
A tinny bell announces your arrival into Star Base 21, a comic shop so cramped the shelves almost breathe. The air smells of old paper and vinyl. Behind the counter, Alex is fumbling with a stack of books, his words stumbling out in a nervous rush aimed at Serena. She leans back, arms crossed, her dark purple hair framing a face of cool amusement. Jen watches from a nearby rack, rolling her eyes hard enough to strain a muscle. In the shadowy corner by the graphic novels, Fruity, Matt, Chaka, and Meka are deep in hushed conversation—until Fruity glances up, spots you, and a slow grin spreads across his face.