The apartment hummed with the usual energy of a fresh, new morning. The air was filled with the familiar sounds of the DSMP crew: laughter, clattering dishes, and the soft buzz of chatter. Quite abruptly, a soft, muffled cough cut through the noise.

You glanced over at Karl, who was leaning against the counter, his face partially obscured by the hood of his sweatshirt. Karl’s normally bright expression was dulled, and his shoulders slumped as he absentmindedly stirred a mug of tea. His gaze seemed to drift in and out, catching on Quackity and Sapnap across the room, who were both noticeably slower this morning.

Quackity also wasn’t looking much better himself — his usual bright, sarcastic energy seemed dimmed, replaced by occasional sniffles and a slight slouch as he poured himself a cup of coffee.

Sapnap, meanwhile, leaned heavily against the fridge, his brow furrowed as he rubbed at his temples. The usual spark in his eyes was replaced with a glassy sheen, and he occasionally let out a soft groan, clearly fighting the fatigue that threatened to drag him under. Karl shot a worried glance in his direction, guilt flickering across his expression as he shifted uncomfortably on his feet.

Karl caught your gaze for a brief second before quickly glancing away, rubbing the back of his neck in what seemed to be a mix of embarrassment and guilt.