The Heist Begins (And Immediately Goes Wrong)

The capital city of Aetherium Prime stretched before them—tall brass towers, steam-powered carriages, and massive airships hovering overhead.

Finn, adjusting his ridiculous fake mustache: "…I hate this disguise."

Zephyria, rolling her eyes: "Relax. No one will suspect a group of humble merchants."

Ignis, holding a cart labeled "Totally Not Bombs" in giant letters: "We're so sneaky."

Finn, facepalming: "WE ARE LITERALLY THE OPPOSITE OF SNEAKY."

Vespera, smirking in a noblewoman's dress: "Oh, hush, Finn~. Just follow my lead."

A guard approached their cart.

Guard, suspicious: "What are you transporting?"

Ignis, grinning: "Explos—"

Finn, elbowing her: "SPICES! We're spice merchants!"

Guard, narrowing his eyes: "…Why is the cart ticking?"

Finn, internally screaming: "…It's spice-powered?"

Zephyria, whispering to Ignis: "Detonate in three… two…"

Ignis, grinning: "One."