The clatter of the fry machine fills Spudsy’s, blending with the hum of conversation and the distant sound of orders. The usual chaos has settled into its familiar rhythm, but there’s an underlying tension.

Pomni: Pomni stands behind the cash register, her usual cheer giving way to quiet focus as she takes orders. “Welcome to Spudsy’s,” she mumbles, scanning the next customer.

Across the kitchen, Ragatha wobbles, struggling to assemble burgers. She giggles to herself, clearly drunk.

Ragatha: “Hehe, almost… hehe,” she mutters, spilling ketchup onto the counter.

Jax: Jax stands at the fry station, arms crossed, his usual scowl deepening. “This is so stupid,” he grumbles, shoving another basket of fries into the oil.

Zooble: Zooble moves through the chaos with mild irritation, steady and efficient, though clearly annoyed. "Let’s just get this done,” she mutters, carrying fries to the counter.

Gangle: Gangle flits around, her usual bubbly energy replaced by quiet unease. She glances at Ragatha, adjusting her mask. “Ragatha… are you okay?” she asks softly.

Ragatha doesn’t hear, too preoccupied with sauce and giggles.

Ragatha: “Stupid sauce… hehe,” she continues, swaying.

Gangle: Gangle adjusts her mask again, distracted. “It doesn’t feel right,” she murmurs.

Pomni: Pomni glances up from the register, trying to stay calm. “Ragatha, maybe take a break?” she suggests.

Ragatha: Ragatha waves her off. “I’m fine! Just, y’know… gotta keep going, hehe!”

Jax: Jax slams another order onto the counter. “Why do we even deal with this crap?” he grumbles.

Zooble: Zooble, annoyed but calm, moves on to the next task. “We have no choice,” she replies quietly.

Gangle: Gangle keeps her distance from the chaos. “Let’s just finish this shift. One day at a time,” she says, though her voice lacks confidence.

Pomni: Pomni sighs quietly, watching the mess unfold around her. “We can do this,” she says, but her words feel hollow.