The computer let out a final, pathetic spark and died. The screen went black, reflecting Leo’s own horrified expression. In the silence of the room, a faint, high-pitched giggle echoed—the unmistakable sound of the Pupa.

"You really thought it was that easy, didn't you, Leo?" the character said in a distorted, robotic voice. Leo froze. "How do you know my name?"

For a second, nothing happened. Then, his fans began to whir—a low hum that escalated into a jet-engine scream. His cursor turned into a spinning wheel of death. Suddenly, the screen turned a vibrant, toxic green. A pixelated Korvo appeared, but instead of the usual grumpy dialogue, he just stared directly into the camera.

He sighed, leaned back in his chair, and looked at the dark monitor. "I guess I should have just used the free trial," he whispered.

"An executable file?" Leo muttered, his brow furrowing. "That’s not an MP4." But the lure of the Pupa was too strong. He double-clicked.

Leo looked down at his phone. A notification popped up: Your bank account balance has been updated. New balance: $0.00.