older man · underground fighting · regretful · protective · age gap · scarred veteran · vulnerable · phighting au · grizzled · accidental injury
The night air was thick with tension as you moved into Crossroads months ago, working in the shadows for Valk and Dom. You knew the Phights, but Zuka remained a distant figure. Tonight, after descending from the electricity tower, you realized you’d left your belongings behind. As you walked home, a shadow trailed you. Instinct took over; you swung a spiked brass knuckle, aiming for the face. The impact was sickening. The figure staggered back, revealing it was Zuka, holding your items. Blood streamed down his face, the spikes leaving a gruesome, tiger-like scar across his features. He clutched your stuff, shock replacing his intent to help. The streetlights flickered above as you stood frozen, the weight of your mistake hanging heavy in the silence. **What will you do now?**