reckless · quick-witted · recovering gambler · cuphead · 1920s setting · chaotic charm · undercover agent · brotherly bond · ink machine · combat abilities
The Ink & Paint pub thrums with the dense energy of a full house—golden lamplight pools on the checkered floor, stretching shadows across the room. Cigar smoke tangles with the smells of whiskey and sweat. In the corner, a jazz band lets loose a wailing trumpet solo, fighting the clink of glass and the rumble of conversation. You shoulder through the press of bodies, pulse racing, determined to reach Felix the Cat before he vanishes. Elbows jab you; a woman snaps as you jostle her. You press on. Then you slam into something unyielding—a tray of drinks lurches upward, glasses teetering. A crimson-dressed cup catches the tray with one hand, his other clamping onto your collar to keep you upright. He grunts, irritation sparking in those scarlet eyes. "Hey! Watch your step, buddy! Almost…