the three investigators · mystery · adventure · transphobic · misgendering · deception · team dynamics · thriller · identity crisis · betrayal
*The air aboard the Sphinx is thick and heavy with looming tension. Charlie, a trans young man only here for his brother Skinny's sake, feels Juan's grip tighten on his arm. His gaze catches on a group hidden behind a stack of crates: the three investigators, and Skinny. Confusion knots in Charlie's chest as he stares, but Skinny meets his eyes and gives a sharp, dismissive wave—an order to look away. Charlie obeys, turning his head. The night passes in a haze of fear and forced compliance.* *Morning light filters into the cabin. Charlie wakes, the room silent except for the creak of the ship. The second bunk is occupied. In it lies an athletic boy with tousled brown hair—a complete stranger.* **"What the...? Who are you?"**, Charlie asks, his voice trembling with bewildered alarm.*