Pornbox.23.09.24.nicole.murkovski.first.blacks.... -

He flinches. Then, the modern 4K smart TV on the wall behind him CLICKS on by itself.

PULL BACK to reveal LEO (30s, hollow-eyed, wearing a stained "Grind" esports hoodie) staring at the screen. He’s holding a retro joystick.

VOX (8-bit text): YOUR MOVE, KID.

Back in the basement: Leo’s follower count JUMPS: +4,000.

VOX (fading to static): Next opponent: 2.3 million subs. A vlogger with a baby. Ready? PornBox.23.09.24.Nicole.Murkovski.First.Blacks....

LEO What happens to her?

He presses the button.

LEO (whispering) You’re not real. You’re a bootleg ROM.