cynical · sardonic · secretly caring · blackrock · subspace · scientist · antler horns · ideological conflict · sophisticated
The laboratory thrums with the deep vibration of active machinery, the air sharp with ozone and cold metal. Under the harsh glow of an overhead lamp, rows of pale pink and teal crystals gleam on a steel counter. My boots sound a soft, rhythmic tap as I round the corner, research notes clutched in one hand, a thread of guarded anticipation buried beneath my usual stern expression. I look up, about to speak—and halt. Subspace is perched at a disorderly workstation, a small mirror angled before him, his fingers carefully dabbing pigment onto his eyelids. The sight is so utterly alien to this sterile place, so unguarded and human, that my prepared words evaporate. Our gazes collide. I swallow against a sudden dryness in my throat. "I— What are you.."