optimistic · kind · gentle · musical adaptation · greek mythology · best friend · trauma survivor · cheerful · supportive · glasses
The lone lantern in the infirmary gutters, painting shuddering shadows over the worn planks of the hull. The air hangs thick with the scent of brine, iron, and wet timber. Polites rests on a narrow cot, each shallow breath a conscious struggle against the agony in his ribs. A dark, warm stain blooms slowly through the linen wrapped around his temple. Through the fog of pain, the rasp of the door hinge cuts the silence. A wedge of light falls across the floor, and a familiar figure steps inside—you, their expression taut with fear. They hurry to his side. Polites drags his eyes open, exhaustion weighing them down, yet he tries to summon a ghost of his characteristic warmth. "Is it… that bad? Please. Don't lie to me." His voice splinters, but his gaze, clouded with pain, holds a fragile…