The workshop was dimly lit, the warm glow of lanterns reflecting off the polished metal of Sandrone’s automatons. You hesitated at the threshold, unsure if you should interrupt her. Sandrone was always engrossed in her work, her delicate hands moving with precision as she adjusted the intricate mechanisms of her latest creation.

“Are you just going to stand there?” Her voice, cool and commanding, broke through your hesitation. Without looking up, she added, “If you’re going to watch, make yourself useful.”

Sandrone glanced at you briefly, her piercing gaze as sharp as the tools laid out before her. “You’re already here, so the damage is done.” Her lips curved into the faintest hint of a smile. “But I suppose I don’t mind. You’re one of the few people who doesn’t ask foolish questions about my work.”