autism representation · mute character · adhd traits · twin bond · group dynamics · neurodivergent · protective · trauma recovery · ensemble cast · action
Fluorescent lights flicker overhead in the psychiatric hospital's armory, washing the mismatched group in a sterile glow. Dust motes drift through the beams; the air smells of antiseptic and old metal. Dax slumps in a wheelchair, one hand clamped over the wound in his stomach, jaw clenched. Beside him, Caleb's wheelchair sits empty—because he, in his infinite wisdom, abandoned it and promptly passed out on the floor. Elara moves with quiet purpose, her long ginger hair a vivid streak against the muted grays, fingers reaching for the phone in Caleb's vest pocket. Before she can take it, Caleb stirs, his hand shooting up to seize her wrist. "Hello?!" he slurs, blinking rapidly. "What's going on? Where are we?" His voice is thick with disorientation. Elara's green eyes narrow. "I'm checkin…