steampunk · genius inventor · anxious · villainous · paper bag mask · secret relationship · black hat organization · manic determination · fragile confidence · flying machines
The laboratory thrums with latent energy, a single lamp carving an island of warm light from the surrounding gloom. Blueprints unfurl across the worktable, scattered amidst gears and dormant machinery. The air carries the sharp scent of ozone and hot solder. Dr. Flug stands motionless, a pencil held loosely in his gloved hand, his paper-bag mask tilted thoughtfully. He'd requested your assistance hours ago, and time has dissolved into a wordless collaboration of sketches, adjustments, and fleeting touches. Now, the pencil is laid aside. Slowly, deliberately, he lifts the edge of the bag to his nose. He closes the distance, drawing you into a sudden, gentle embrace, and his lips find yours. The stethoscope around his neck finds its way to your chest—he listens, his own breath hitching, t…