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Chapter 1

I snapped back to the reality of receiving a whiplashing from the dust carried by the wind, smacking me across the face. My right hand came up to massage my forehead as I deeply inhaled some of the crusty air. Regret filled me quickly as I coughed and hacked out in the dust storm. I had no recollection of how I came to this place. I squinted into the distance, making sense of the new environment I snapped to. I reached for my face only to come empty handed. There was no respiratory or eye protection against the dust.

Well then, I guess I’ll just die-

My thoughts were interrupted by the rumbling and mechanical whirling of oncoming transportation machines. I stumbled along, hesitating whether to interact with the people travelling or hide in plain sight - though it would be difficult in a place lacking in vegetation or establishments. The sound only grew louder and nearer as the silhouettes of the figures grew larger. A cold numbness crept up my legs to my arms, paralysing me before I could make my choice. My ears rang with every heartbeat that accelerated with each short breath drawn in. The transportation contraptions had slowed down and made a stop a few metres ahead of me. 

The engines purred as the figure of a tall man unhooked his leg from the side of the machine. He hopped off the seat and stalked towards me. A faint outline of a bat trailed behind him. It took a few more steps to view the person’s entire body from the thin screen caused by the dust storm. 

“What do we have here?” the voice suddenly spoke. 

A few more steps and the person loomed over me. A squeak left my lips as the figure bent down slightly to scan me before sporting a posture showcasing one of deep thought. Three fingers were raised as a signal to the rest of the bikers. The figure turned towards me, stooping low so they met my line of sight. 

“You have anywhere to go?” The deep voice reverberated in my skull. 

I could only stare up and shake my head dumbly. The person then gestured at me. I was still frozen in place, a befuddled expression must have painted my face for the slight pause caused the man to suddenly clap and let out a sound of realisation. 

“I’m Mingi,” The man offered a hand, “you’re welcome to join.”

I hesitantly took the hand before the man gripped my hand and dragged me towards the group of bikers. 
“Alrighty boys, be nice, no bullying. I’ll explain to captain.” Mingi said whilst propping me onto the back of his bike. I could only sit behind quietly whilst the bike roared to life before pushing forth. I urgently leaned forward so I would not fall off but cautious enough to avoid Mingi’s back. 

•••

I was still dazed from the absurdity of the situation. Confusion led to more confusion especially considering the lack of recollection prior to landing in this predicament. A slight tap on my shoulder jolted me out of my thoughts. I had not realised that the bike had stopped at a final destination in some sort of metal shack. I heard a soft apology from my side and turned towards the sound. Another man adorning a bandana that covered half his face signed for me to get down from the bike.

I ungracefully slid off the back of the bike, stumbling a little as I regained footing. A slight chuckle of amusement sounded from my far left and I blushed in embarrassment. I surveyed my new environment which was a course, sandy ground underway. Overhead were fluorescent lights and a few rusted metal fans. It seemed to be a warehouse converted into dwellings indicative of scattered beat-up sofas. 

“Mingi she’s your responsibility now.” One of the guys yelled out.

Mingi heaved a sigh before walking with purpose around a tower of petroleum cans. I could only stand where I was out of wariness. Clattering, chatter and soft music wafted around the space. The displaced sound of a dull thump was loud enough to catch my attention and soon after, raised voices followed. The sound of arguing grew louder and closer.