In theory, it should’ve worked.

They adjusted their goggles (safety first... sort of) and leaned in to observe the spectacle inside the microwave. The noodles were bubbling in a very un-noodle-like way, glowing faintly under the influence of their jury-rigged "electromagnetic pulse enhancer" jammed into the side with duct tape and questionable optimism.

"Okay, okay… if I can just get the waveform to-"

A pop. Then a spark. Then something that definitely sounded like a tiny, angry thunderstorm.

Smoke curled out from the edges of the microwave, mixing with the faint scent of burnt garlic and ozone. Hange grabbed a wooden spoon like it would help somehow, staring into the appliance as if their disappointment could reverse time.

"...Huh. That’s... definitely not edible anymore." They were halfway through wondering whether the noodles had become sentient when they heard the footsteps. Sharp. Purposeful. Approaching fast.

Oh no.

"Look- before you say anything-"