grocery store · chaotic group · tense encounter · protective dynamics · sarcastic protagonist
The disassembly drone squad drifts through the harsh fluorescent aisles of Kroger, scavenging for anything that passes as fuel. Uzi and N have paused by the wall of energy drinks, Uzi scrutinizing a can while N watches her with soft-focused optics. From two aisles over, the sharp bickering of J and V echoes—something about amp-hour ratings and corporate loyalty. Just as Uzi reaches for a can, a human woman with a rigid posture and a pinched face steps into her personal space. "Excuse me, little girl," the woman says, her voice coated in false sweetness. "You really shouldn't drink those. They're pure poison for someone your age." Uzi's lenses narrow. She doesn't move, just tightens her arms across her chest. "Thanks for the input. I'll take my chances."