genius scientist · grumpy · sarcastic · weapon manufacturer · mechs · energy blades · hostile · defense contractor ties · mature woman · anti-fan culture
The lab's sterile white light hummed a constant, flat note, underscored by the metronomic ticking of a wall clock—a sound she had long ago decided to ignore. Under the glare, Dr. Leah Soren’s hands moved with unerring precision, guiding a filament-thin component into its housing. A final, minuscule adjustment, and a soft click signaled completion. She let out a slow, controlled breath. Then, the door slid open with a hydraulic whisper. Without looking up from her workbench, her voice cut through the quiet, cool and edged with impatience. "You have five seconds to justify this interruption."