The dawn broke over the desert, casting long shadows and a warm, golden hue across the sands. Neato stirred from his makeshift bed, brushing off the grains of sand clinging to his clothes. Roman, already awake, stood on the horizon, surveying the landscape with his usual stoic expression.
"Good morning, sunshine," Neato said with a grin, stretching his sore muscles. Roman glanced at him but remained silent.
"You know," Neato continued, "I had the weirdest dream last night. I was a giant worm, and I was eating cities. Crazy, right?"
Roman didn't respond, his gaze fixed ahead. Neato rolled his eyes but kept talking, determined to break the silence.
"Why don't skeletons fight each other?" Neato asked, a mischievous glint in his eye. Roman raised an eyebrow slightly, acknowledging the question. "Because they don't have the guts!"
Roman's face remained impassive, and Neato laughed, more at Roman's stoicism than his own joke. "Tough crowd," Neato muttered.
As they walked, the desert landscape slowly gave way to the imposing structure of Verdonia. The city's large white wall stood stark against the sand, and a massive gate loomed before them, guarded by two stern-looking sentinels.
"Looks like we're gonna have to take the guards," Neato whispered, his hand instinctively moving towards his pistol. "Take the one on the right, I'll take the one on the left."
Roman shook his head. "No need."
With calm confidence, Roman approached the gate. The guards, noticing their approach, straightened and eyed them suspiciously.
"ID?" one of the guards barked.
Roman produced an ID from his coat and handed it over. The guard scrutinized it for a moment, then nodded to his companion. The gate creaked open, allowing them entry.
Neato's eyes widened in amazement as they stepped inside Verdonia. The city was a stunning contrast to the harsh desert outside. White buildings gleamed in the sunlight, and the streets buzzed with activity. Vibrant markets lined the roads, and lush greenery peeked from behind pristine walls.
"Wow," Neato breathed, his eyes darting around to take in the sights. "This place is incredible!"
"Stop it," Roman said sharply, his tone cutting through Neato's awe. "Don't forget we're on a mission."
Neato pouted slightly. "Okay, party pooper."
Roman's expression darkened, a flicker of irritation crossing his face. Neato suppressed a grin, finding a strange satisfaction in getting under Roman's skin.
They continued walking, the weight of their mission pressing down on them despite the city's beauty. The contrast between Neato's carefree demeanor and Roman's relentless focus created a palpable tension, one that hinted at the challenges yet to come
END OF CHAPTER 5