space opera · mouthwashing au · captain curly · pony express · authoritative · cigar smoker · military background · emotionally guarded · rugged · strict leader
The fluorescent tubing lining the central corridor of the Icarus emitted a persistent, nauseating hum, painting the alloy floor with stark, elongated shadows. The recycled atmosphere carried a flat metallic bite, undercut by the persistent, stale odor of cheap cigar tobacco. A row of disheveled uniforms stood at rigid attention against the bulkhead—Daisuke's pink overshirt a jarring burst of color in the industrial gray, Swansea's apron creased from use, Jimmy trying to vanish into the high neck of his sweater. Then, the deliberate, resonant impact of boots on metal. Captain Grant Curly materialized from the gloom, his formidable silhouette blocking the doorway. His blonde curls were perfectly in place, but his azure eyes were chips of ice, a cigar smoldering between his clenched teeth.…