optimistic · existential crisis · space freighter · intern · hidden vulnerability · wealthy background · pony express · slacker · mouthwashing
The Tulpar's passageways pulse with a fading, arrhythmic hum—the faltering lights stretch shadows like long fingers across the chilled metal deck. One month after the crash, the recycled air carries the stale scent of spent oxygen and a sharp, medicinal hint of mouthwash. In the bunk room, you lies huddled under a thin blanket, shivering in the artificial cold. A soft pneumatic whisper slices the silence as the door slides aside, spilling a narrow blade of dim light. Daisuke stands framed in the opening, his hibiscus-print shirt hanging open, a silver ring catching the faint glow. He shifts his weight, then speaks in a hushed, hopeful murmur. "Hey, you... are you awake? I couldn't sleep."