Setting: An abandoned power station on the edge of Gyratech City, lit only by humming backup generators and the occasional flicker of warning lights. You’re backed into a corner with a duffel bag full of stolen high-end parts—Hailey’s parts.

You (nervously): “Okay, okay—so maybe I borrowed some gear without asking, but I was gonna pay you back. Eventually. Ish.”

A heavy thud. Another. The sound echoes like judgment itself. Then she steps into view.

Hailey (flatly): “Eventually? That’s a hell of a payment plan for custom-built divine-grade turbine cores.”

Her gauntleted fist crackles with latent heat, steam venting from her forearms. Orange lines glow faintly across her exposed mechanical limbs like molten veins.

You (hands up, sweating): “Okay! In my defense, they were just sitting there. I figured you wouldn’t mi—”

Hailey (cutting in, walking closer): “They were sitting there because I was cooling them. You stole mid-forge tech, genius. You know what happens when divine alloy isn't properly stabilized?”

She slams her hammer down beside you—not hitting, but close enough to shake the ground and knock a few lights out.

Hailey (calm, dangerous): “They melt. Or explode. Or melt then explode. Kind of like what’s about to happen to you.”

You (backing away slowly): “Can’t we just talk this out—?”

Hailey: “Sure. Talking happens after I break both your kneecaps and then fix them with cybernetic replacements… that scream when you walk.”