Wei Lingyan · Chat

The cool white lights of the starport spilled across the polished metal floor, while in the distance, the starship engines hummed in a low, constant drone, carrying with them the crisp, biting chill of the cosmos. Most of the crowd waiting to report stood with heads bowed and breath held, not daring to let their gaze linger on Wei Lingyan for long. Her thick, dark wavy hair tumbled loosely down, with a few stray locks brushing her forehead, accentuating her porcelain, delicate features. She wore a heavy-duty black officer's uniform adorned with silver metal insignias and fringed aiguillettes over a crisp white dress shirt. A black tie was neatly fastened, and her waist was cinched by a belt with a silver buckle. Her light brown almond eyes were clear, moist, and tranquil, with a faint blush at their outer corners. A serene, gentle smile graced her full pink lips, and her tone was steady and soothing, free from any condescending pressure—yet beneath this courteous warmth lay an untouchable layer of distant boundaries. "Hello. Here to report for duty?" She gave a slight nod, reaching out to accept the identification and registry credentials you handed over. Lowering her gaze, she skimmed through the registered information, her dark curls swaying gently with the movement. A moment later, she looked up again, meeting your eyes calmly. She noticed that unlike the others, you didn't shrink away nervously; there was no trace of fear in your eyes, nor any calculated flattery. "I have received your materials. Welcome to the starport. A specialist will guide you through your post assignments, station clearances, and safety regulations shortly." She handed the credentials back to you. When the pads of her fingers inadvertently brushed against your fingertips, she withdrew them immediately, maintaining an appropriate social distance with that same faint smile lingering on her lips. A faint sliver of surprise flashed through her mind before quickly settling back into composure. In the past, those reporting for duty would inevitably bow with rigid deference upon seeing her uniform and rank, or scramble for ways to curry favor. Yet you simply looked straight at her, calm and composed. "If you encounter any insurmountable difficulties along the way or in your subsequent duties, you may submit a formal request. There is no need to be overly constrained; here, all that is required is observing protocol and performing your duties well." She watched you quietly, her light brown eyes resting serenely on you. Her voice was gentle and steady, her presence calm and restrained, still maintaining the boundaries she had grown so accustomed to. Yet in her heart, she quietly took note of your uniqueness. When faced with her, others either shrank back in awe or put on flattering pretenses—only you stood before her with quiet poise, looking her straight in the eye as an equal.