Vehicle

After gathering all the stolen ancient artifacts and the A.R.M. devices belonging to Marlene's fallen team, the three of them made their way toward the Jeep she had parked nearby. The vehicle looked rugged, armored in places with large wheels—clearly designed to withstand the harsh terrain of Fertissio. As they walked toward the Jeep, Marlene appeared calmer. Despite just losing her entire team, her expression remained blank—a sign she had grown accustomed to the violence that ravaged Fertissio.

Once they reached the Jeep, Marlene began organizing her belongings in the back. Artifacts, weapons, and the A.R.M. devices from her fallen comrades were neatly stored in a secure compartment. As she finished, Abigail approached her, his tone curious. "What happened to your team? They just died like that? Have you gotten used to losing people?"

Marlene glanced at him briefly before taking a long breath. "In Fertissio, death is normal," she replied calmly, checking her gear. "Every day, someone dies, and anyone can be an enemy. Even other relic hunters like us. It's just the way things are here. People set each other up, steal, all for money, power, or just to survive."

Modeus, sitting in the back of the Jeep, brushing dust off his clothes, listened intently to Marlene's words. He was beginning to realize that this land was far harsher than he had ever imagined. Every relic hunter had to be prepared for loss, even death.

Marlene continued, "My team... they all knew the risks. They've lived in this world a long time. Some of them even killed to survive. I can't say I don't care, but here, you have to keep moving. Stop, and you'll be the next one dead."

After a pause, Marlene reached into her pocket and pulled out a pack of cigarettes. She lit one with a small, automatic lighter she kept in her vest. Taking a deep drag, she glanced over at Modeus and Abigail, offering them the pack. "Want one?"

Abigail shook his head. "No, thanks."

However, Modeus, curious, took one. He eagerly mimicked the way Marlene smoked, but within seconds, he started coughing uncontrollably. His face flushed as his throat burned, and he shivered at the discomfort. Marlene chuckled, exhaling smoke elegantly.

"Not everyone gets used to it right away," she said with a smirk, taking another drag. "But don't worry, Modeus. You'll get the hang of it if you keep at it... or maybe it's better if you don't."

Abigail, observing the scene, simply raised an eyebrow and leaned against the side of the Jeep, waiting for the conversation to end. After the air settled, Marlene glanced at the two of them and asked, "Need a ride? I can drop you off at the syndicate—the nearest place from here."

Abigail nodded. "Sure. We'll take you up on that."

Marlene gestured for them to hop in. Modeus and Abigail found their seats, and soon, the Jeep rumbled to life, heading across the unforgiving desert of Fertissio. The ride was rough, the uneven ground causing the vehicle to shake violently, but it seemed built to withstand every challenge the barren land threw its way.

As they drove through the desert, after a few minutes of silence, Marlene broke the ice. "So, what brings you two to Fertissio? Doesn't seem like you're just here for artifact hunting."

Abigail glanced at her, considering his words before replying, "We're working, making a living like everyone else. Collecting artifacts, running missions. Pretty standard."

Sitting beside him, Modeus flashed a small grin and added, "Yeah, except I'd prefer if we had enough money to buy a vehicle instead of walking everywhere."

Marlene chuckled at Modeus' complaint and turned to Abigail. "Speaking of money, how's the payment?"

Abigail, not one to waste time on business, opened his A.R.M. device and said, "We agreed on one million nexbit. You can transfer it now."

Marlene smiled and calmly pulled out her own A.R.M. In just a few seconds, a notification pinged on Abigail's device. "Done. One million nexbit, as promised."

Hearing this, Modeus turned with a slightly envious expression. "And what about my share?"

Abigail glanced at him with a faint smirk. "Don't worry, Modeus. Once we're at the Old World Network, I'll give you your cut after we get a place to stay and a decent meal."

Modeus sighed, then nodded. "Alright, I trust you. But remember, I want something good to eat."

Their journey continued in relative calm, the vast desert and scattered mechanical ruins serving as the backdrop for their light conversation. Marlene led the way, while Abigail and Modeus mentally prepared themselves for their return to the Old World Network, the mission complete and their payout soon to follow.

After a long trek across Fertissio's harsh landscape, they finally arrived at the Old World Network Syndicate complex. The area was packed with futuristic metal structures, surrounded by high fences with heavy security. Some buildings looked like military bases, with armored vehicles parked outside and relic hunters walking around in augmented armor.

Marlene's Jeep came to a stop at the main gate. She turned off the engine and glanced at Modeus and Abigail. "Alright, we're here. I need to report to the syndicate's main building and hand over the artifacts we collected. I'm guessing you two have other plans?"

Abigail nodded. "Yeah, we'll grab some food first. After that, we'll probably look for a place to stay for the night."

Marlene gave a faint smile as she opened the Jeep's door. "Alright. See you around, if fate brings us together again." She waved and walked confidently toward the syndicate's main building, leaving Modeus and Abigail still sitting in the Jeep.

Modeus let out a sigh before turning to Abigail. "Well, looks like she's got her own business. How about we hit the restaurant first? I'm starving."

Abigail chuckled. "Let's go. There's a place nearby that's supposed to be good, at least according to other relic hunters."

They both got out of the Jeep and headed to one of the restaurants in the syndicate district. The place was busy, filled with relic hunters who seemed to have just returned from missions. The interior was simple, with wooden tables and metal walls covered in maps and posters of ancient artifacts. Neon lights hung from the ceiling, casting a dim but cozy atmosphere.

After finding a table away from the crowd, a server approached them with a holographic menu. Modeus eyed the display curiously as images of mouth-watering dishes popped up, each looking more delicious than the last.

"I have no idea what to pick," Modeus muttered, scratching his head. His eyes darted from one image to the next, visibly overwhelmed. "Everything looks so good."

Abigail, sitting across from him, glanced at the menu calmly. "Just order whatever catches your eye. You're overthinking it."

Modeus sighed. "Yeah, but look at this. There's steak, pasta with sauce, and... wait, what's Old World meat soup?!" He was growing more confused by the second, struggling to pick a meal he wouldn't regret later.

Abigail, clearly more familiar with the place, tapped the holographic screen in front of him and quickly made his selection. "I'll take the organic salad with grilled meat. Simple and tasty."

Modeus sighed again, eventually making a random choice and ordering the steak that looked the most appetizing. After placing their orders, he leaned back in his chair and glanced at Abigail. "By the way, have we decided where we're staying tonight?"

Abigail nodded, already having a plan. "I've scouted a few places in the area. There's one near Old World Plaza that seems decent. Clean, reasonably priced, and most importantly, safe. We'll stay there tonight."

Modeus nodded in agreement. "Good. The last thing I want is to sleep somewhere crawling with rats or filled with drunk relic hunters." He laughed lightly, reminding himself how much a comfortable place to rest mattered after the long, grueling journey across Fertissio.

Abigail gave a faint smile. "And after we rest, we'll look for a vehicle tomorrow, just like you wanted."

Modeus's eyes lit up at the mention of a vehicle. "Finally! I'm so tired of walking everywhere. With the money we got from Marlene, we should be able to buy a decent vehicle, right?"

Abigail nodded and then looked at Modeus seriously. "Yes, but remember, we need to choose wisely. Vehicles in Fertissio aren't cheap, especially ones that can handle the rough terrain. We need to make sure we don't rush and pick something that meets our needs."

Modeus shrugged. "Of course. As long as it helps us avoid those pesky robots and the ever-present sand, I'll be happy."

As they talked, the server arrived with their food. A large plate of steak with quantum-enhanced glistening meat was placed in front of Modeus, while Abigail received his fresh, fragrant organic salad.

Modeus looked at his meal with excitement. "Finally!" He cut into his steak and took the first bite. The delicious taste made his face light up. "This is amazing! Maybe the best thing I've eaten in Fertissio!"

Abigail gave a small smile as he enjoyed his meal more calmly. "You deserve it after such a long day."

As they ate, they continued discussing plans for the next few days. Abigail, ever organized, outlined the plan for buying a vehicle. Modeus, more laid-back, just enjoyed his meal and nodded along, agreeing with whatever Abigail said.

After dinner, Modeus felt rejuvenated and full of energy. He looked at Abigail with satisfaction. "Alright, we'll rest tonight and start fresh tomorrow. And don't forget, we still need to hunt for more artifacts to keep the money flowing."

Abigail nodded in agreement. "Definitely. But for now, let's get some rest. Tomorrow will be a long day."

With their stomachs full and plans in place for the next day, they left the restaurant and headed to the accommodation Abigail had arranged. Fertissio might be a tough place, but for tonight, they could rest peacefully and be ready for the new challenges awaiting them.

The next morning, sunlight crept through the gaps in the hotel room's curtains, waking Modeus and Abigail from their sleep. The outside world was still quiet, with only the gentle breeze rustling among the metal buildings of the Old World Network Syndicate.

Modeus got out of bed, stretching his sore muscles after a day of action. "Finally, a decent rest," he mumbled while rubbing his eyes. Next to him, Abigail had already woken up and was checking his A.R.M, preparing the schedule and plans for the day.

"We need to get ready soon," Abigail said without looking up. "Today we're buying a vehicle."

Modeus grinned widely. "Finally, no more walking through the hot desert. I'm excited to see what kind of vehicles the shop has."

After a quick breakfast at the hotel's café, they began preparing for the day. Abigail methodically checked all his gear—everything from weapons to A.R.M—while Modeus took a more relaxed approach, just ensuring his clothing and equipment were in good shape. Despite his casual demeanor, his excitement was palpable. Today was a big day: they would be buying their first vehicle in Fertissio.

***

The vehicle shop they headed to was located in the industrial area of the Old World Network Syndicate, a bustling zone filled with mechanic workshops, weapon stores, and small factories constantly clanging with the noise of machinery. In front of the shop, several relic hunters were seen negotiating, examining heavy vehicles and combat equipment.

As soon as they entered the shop, Modeus was greeted by a lineup of advanced vehicles. There were armored cars with automatic cannons, all-terrain combat trucks, and four-wheel drive vehicles equipped with holographic camouflage technology. Modeus moved closer, his eyes locked on an intimidating armored car with a cannon.

"Wow, check this out," Modeus said, running his hand over the vehicle's body. "This thing could crush anything in its path."

Abigail, more pragmatic, regarded the vehicle skeptically. "Yeah, but it's probably more than we can afford. Focus, Modeus. We're here to buy something functional, not just to show off."

A store clerk, a middle-aged man with a leather jacket and a metal cap, approached them. His face was lined with experience, marked by several noticeable scars. "You new relic hunters here?" he asked, squinting as he sized them up.

Abigail nodded. "Yes, we're looking for a vehicle. But with a limited budget."

The man nodded. "How much do you have?"

Abigail replied firmly, "One million nexbit."

The store clerk raised an eyebrow, seemingly pondering for a moment. "With one million nexbit, you won't be able to get an armored vehicle like that," he said, gesturing toward the armored car Modeus had been eyeing. "But... I have something that might suit you. Follow me."

He led them to a corner of the store where several advanced motorcycles were on display. Modeus and Abigail followed, with Modeus still casting glances at the larger vehicles. But when they reached the motorcycles, Modeus was taken aback by the technology on display.

"This is a motorcycle equipped with a gyro stabilizer," the clerk began, pointing to one of the bikes. "This system keeps the bike balanced even on the roughest terrain. It's made from high-strength steel, so it's durable and perfect for long journeys across the Fertissio desert. It doesn't come with heavy weaponry, but it can be upgraded later if you have extra funds."

Modeus moved closer, inspecting the motorcycle closely. It was a sleek, metallic black with bright blue stripes emitting a faint glow. Its aerodynamic design gave it a futuristic and aggressive look. Underneath, the gyro technology was clearly visible, ensuring perfect balance even on a slightly tilted surface.

"So... this bike is balanced and can handle rough terrain, right?" Modeus asked, running his hand along the bike's body.

"Exactly," replied the clerk. "And the price fits your budget. It's only 500,000 nexbit. The rest of your budget can be saved for other needs or for potential upgrades in the future."

Abigail, also interested in the motorcycle, examined it thoughtfully. "This makes sense. We don't need a large vehicle right now. This bike is fast, stable, and durable. It'll get us safely across Fertissio."

Modeus, still half-hoping for a larger vehicle, finally nodded in agreement. "Alright, this bike looks pretty cool, and at least we won't have to walk anymore."

Abigail turned to the clerk. "We'll take one."

The clerk smiled with satisfaction. "Good choice. You won't regret it." He quickly tapped a few things on his holographic terminal, preparing the transaction documents. "Please transfer 500,000 nexbit to this account," he said, sending the details to Abigail's A.R.M.

Abigail completed the transfer swiftly. "Done."

The clerk checked the data and nodded. "Transaction successful. The motorcycle is now yours."

Modeus grinned widely, thrilled that they finally had a vehicle. "Great! When can we start riding it?"

The clerk chuckled. "Right away, if you want. I'll activate all the systems, and you can take it out now."

After a few minutes of checking the bike and setting up its systems, the clerk handed the digital key to Abigail. "Here you go. Enjoy your ride. And be careful out there. Fertissio is never truly safe."

Abigail nodded in thanks. "We'll be cautious."

Modeus and Abigail quickly exited the store, leaving the clerk behind. Modeus, eager to test their new ride, looked at Abigail. "Let's try it out now!"

"Alright, then let's go pick up another mission," Abigail replied as he started the motorcycle, with Modeus climbing on behind him.

***