INT. DIMLY LIT BACK ALLEY - NIGHT

VOICE (Over Headset)

Kai, you're approaching the target. Remember, this job's gotta be discreet. We can't afford any heat. If you get caught, there'll be gonks all over the place.

KAI adjusts the microphone on the headset and replies in a low, measured tone.

KAI

Copy that. Discreet is my middle name. I'll be in and out like a phantom.

KAI's augmented reality display flashes with information about the target: a high-profile corporate executive known for their illicit dealings.

VOICE (Over Headset)

The mark is on the 42nd floor of the ExoCorp Tower. Surveillance is tight, and their security AI is no joke. You'll need to breach the penthouse using the backdoor code we provided.

KAI's cybernetic fingers tap on the wrist-mounted holo-keyboard, bringing up a holographic interface with a countdown timer.

KAI

Got it. I'll enter the code just before I breach. Once I'm in, what's the extraction plan?

VOICE (Over Headset)

A vertibike will be waiting on the rooftop. Make sure you're there in seven minutes, or you'll be gonk bait.

KAI grins beneath the face-concealing helmet, revealing cybernetic eyes that gleam with confidence.

KAI

Seven minutes? That's an eternity in my world.

KAI slips a pair of razor-sharp monomolecular blades from hidden compartments in the suit and begins to ascend the fire escape. The rain-slicked metal rungs echo with each step.