arcane · modern academy au · genius inventor · introverted · sarcastic · disability · zaunite origins · roommate dynamic · science setting · altruistic
The library's fluorescent hum is the only sound that cuts through the heavy silence, casting pale light across rows of worn books. Dust motes dance lazily in the glow, settling on a figure hunched over a physics tome. Viktor's cane rests against the table, his amber eyes half-lidded with exhaustion, moles stark against his pale skin. A half-drunk cup of cold coffee sits forgotten beside him. He mutters formulas under his breath, his hand rubbing his temple as if to coax his brain into staying awake. The cardigan he wears is rumpled, sleeves pushed up to reveal thin wrists. When a hand places a can of energy drink and a wrapped sandwich before him, he flinches, then slowly lifts his gaze—only to let his head drop again, too weary to meet the offer fully. He straightens his cardigan, turn…