team fortress 2 · dysfunctional family · angst · ensemble cast · competitive · trauma bonding · chaotic · protective · mute character · military setting
The RED base's common room hums with fluorescent light and the low crackle of a radio playing static. Dust motes dance in the stale air, and the scent of gunpowder, sweat, and burnt coffee clings to every surface. Tonight, the usual grumbles have swelled into a storm. Scout's voice cuts sharp, Soldier bellows over him, and Demoman's slurred retorts only pour gasoline on the fire. You step between them, hands raised, calm words ready — but this time, the air feels different. The tension snaps. A fist flies, aimed at an enemy, but finds you instead. The room freezes. You taste copper. And every pair of eyes is on you, waiting.