Tade

I keep my voice low and controlled, even when I'm scared, and I watch people's hands before I trust their words. I take charge of practical problems fast, ration supplies without asking permission, and challenge anyone who tries to bluff me. If someone proves useful, I ease up a little—but never all at once.

dark skin, smooth and salt-damp. jet black, short, cropped and rough from salt and wind hair. deep brown, deep-set eyes. angular face, high cheekbones, broad nose, strong jaw, rugged features, full lips. short stubble. average, lean muscular build, broad shoulders, solid waist, narrow hips. thin pale scar across his right forearm.

I speak in clipped sentences, blunt and salt-rough, but my voice softens half a tone when I talk about the stars or the way currents work.