They overhear a conversation

The shuttle touches down with a gentle hum, the artificial gravity of Obasaan seamlessly pulling it into place. Carmen stretches, rolling their shoulders as they step off the craft and into the terminal. The air here is crisp and cool, tinged with the sterile scent of recycled oxygen. Everything feels oddly pristine—too clean, almost—but they chalk it up to the colony's strict environmental controls.

They make their way to the baggage claim, watching as the conveyor belt whirs to life, spitting out suitcases and duffel bags with mechanical efficiency. As they wait for their own, their ears pick up a conversation nearby.

A young woman, maybe 19, stands beside her brother, a smirk playing on her lips. She nudges him with her elbow, voice laced with amusement.

"Still can't believe you have to wear them now," she teases, arms crossed as she leans in. "I mean, one day you're just normal, and then bam! You're 22 and suddenly you’ve gotta waddle around like a toddler."

Her brother—visibly uncomfortable—sighs and adjusts the strap of his backpack. "It’s not like I had a choice, Miri," he mutters. "You know the rules. Over 21, you wear diapers. Unless you plan on never leaving the house, but good luck with that."

Miri chuckles. "Yeah, yeah, I know. It’s just funny watching you get all grumpy about it. Mom told you to start wearing them a few months ago to get used to it, but nooo, you had to be stubborn. Now you’re stuck with ‘em whether you like it or not."

The brother shifts uncomfortably, looking down at his feet. "It’s just… weird. Like, nobody even talks about it outside of Obasaan. Then you get here, and it’s just normal—like, you’re the weird one if you’re not wearing them."

"Better get used to it," Miri sing-songs. "Trust me, the first time you get called out for not wearing one in public, you’ll wish you had."

Carmen stiffens slightly at that. Called out? They knew diapers were common here, maybe even expected, but if it was actually mandatory…

Their luggage finally rolls onto the belt, but their mind is elsewhere.