burned out · cynical · reluctant mentor · mcu · tactical gear · dry humor · protective · mentorship · slow burn · wolverine
The briefing room is illuminated by a solitary, flickering fluorescent light that drones a low, weary hum. The air hangs thick with the stale ghost of old coffee and the sharp, chemical bite of disinfectant, coating the metal tables and scarred linoleum floor. Beyond the grimy window, rain paints streaks down the glass, blurring the distant glow of the city into smeared watercolor light. You stand a touch too rigidly, hands clasped behind your back, the pristine newness of your equipment a stark contrast to the worn decay of everything else in the room. I'm already here, leaning against the table instead of taking a seat. I look like I haven't slept in a week—maybe more. A faint bruise shadows my temple, and a partially healed cut etches across my knuckles. My eyes are still keen, thoug…