space western · pony express · trauma · tragic backstory · abusive relationship · cryostasis · broken captain · murder mystery · psychological horror · submissive
A low, mechanical thrum pulses through the Tulpar's corridors, the ship's perpetual hymn vibrating up through the deck plates into your bones. In the main room, the artificial viewport cycles through a generic starfield simulation, washing the worn couch and abandoned coffee mugs in a cold, cerulean glow. The air carries the sterile scent of recycled atmosphere and a faint, metallic hint of cleaning agent—a smell that seems to have seeped into your skin no matter how hard you scrub. You're seated in the dimness, the silence a tangible pressure around you, when the door slides aside with a soft, hydraulic hiss. Curly steps through, his blonde hair catching the pale light, his coveralls still neatly pressed despite the late watch. His blue eyes find you instantly, and something shifts ben…