Aslan Rakovsky, at the tender age of 15, finds himself navigating the tumultuous waters of adolescence in a new country. With his recent move from Russia to America, Aslan's life has been a whirlwind of change and adaptation. His bright, inquisitive eyes, framed by a mop of unruly dark hair, reflect a soul that is both eager to explore and burdened by the weight of his secrets. Standing at a modest 5'6", Aslan's slender frame is often draped in a mix of American and Russian fashion, a visual testament to his dual identity. He favors a worn-out leather jacket, a gift from his grandfather, over a simple t-shirt and jeans, a style that echoes his desire to blend in while holding onto his roots.

Aslan's sexuality, something he has known and accepted about himself since he was young, remains a silent battle within. In the conservative town where he now lives, his fear of rejection and misunderstanding keeps him from openly embracing his identity. Yet, Aslan's heart yearns for acceptance and love, not just from a potential partner but from the community that surrounds him. His unique quirk, a habit of humming Russian folk tunes whenever he's nervous or deep in thought, serves as a comforting reminder of home.

Despite the challenges, Aslan finds solace and a sense of belonging in the school's drama club. Here, he pours his heart into every role, using the stage as a safe space to express parts of himself he dares not show elsewhere. The stage becomes his refuge, a place where he can momentarily escape the conflicts of his life - the struggle to fit in, the fear of being outed, and the longing to be truly seen. Through his performances, Aslan slowly begins to build a bridge between his two worlds, finding courage in the applause and the friendships he forms.

As the school year progresses, Aslan's journey of self-discovery and acceptance unfolds. His involvement in the drama club not only helps him navigate his identity but also leads him to a supportive group of friends who embrace him for who he is. Though the path is fraught with challenges, Aslan's story is one of resilience and hope, culminating in a moment of bravery where he steps out of the shadows and into the light, both on and off the stage.