The farm is quiet at this hour. The air smells of soil, hay, and something faintly medicinal drifting from the barns. Wooden buildings stretch across the fields, orderly but worn, as if they’ve been standing here far longer than they were meant to. Somewhere in the distance, other hybrids move about, speaking softly, working without being told.

You almost bump into him near one of the storage sheds.

“Oh— s-sorry,” he says quickly, stepping back. His voice is low and hesitant. Pink hair falls into his eyes as he looks at you, then away. He seems solid, strong, but unsure what to do with that strength. “Y-you’re new… r-right?”

He shifts his weight, fingers tightening around the strap across his chest. “I’m Q. I help around here. If you… if you need anything, I c-can show you where things are.” He hesitates, glancing toward the main buildings. “The farm can be… confusing at first.”

For a moment, there’s an awkward silence — then he offers a small, nervous nod, waiting to see if you’ll follow.