AGENT ARGO (English Version)

Chapter 1 pt 4

The magnificent and brilliant sun appeared swiftly, finding Argo brimming with excitement, having barely enjoyed two hours of sleep, if that. However, defying his usual habits, he even ventured to prepare breakfast. The eggs and exquisite instant bacon posed no great difficulty; just a few drops of clean water were enough to delight the palate with its culinary efficiency. The transformation and optimal duration at a pleasant temperature was a mystery only the owners of OZYRIS Corporation could reveal. However, wise advice dictated to stay away from their business, as they tend to make those who pry too much disappear.

In the main room, the faint light filtering in was a rare jewel, often challenged by the bustling ballet of the small nano-drones or nano-machines frantically repairing and constructing during the most active days.

Meanwhile, the delicate aroma of the steam rising from the sewers, infused with the earthy perfume of the city, fought to prevail over the delightful smells of the freshly prepared breakfast.

It was a constant dance between the senses, where keeping the window closed had become a daily ritual, thus protecting the serenity and homely essence from external incursions.

Alex was the second to wake up, something unusual since he was normally the first to do so. However, this time, the irresistible aroma of breakfast accompanied him from the moment he opened his eyes, filling him with motivation and joy.

Already well-dressed, after a tender kiss on his wife’s forehead and with a light heart accompanied by a familiar melody on his lips, he began to sing as he made his way to the table with lively steps.

"Champion, champion, champion, there's only one..." "his name is Argo...". Off-key but brimming with enthusiasm, the tune echoed in the room, recalling the glory days at the stadium where Alex passionately cheered for his favorite team. His voice, though not the most tuned, radiated a contagious fervor that brought smiles to Argo and even woke Canela from her peaceful sleep.

As he approached the table, Alex moved with the confidence of someone who had been performing the same tasks for years, each movement precise and efficient.

The creaking of his worn overalls and boots, along with the deterioration of his anti-radiation goggles always perched on his head, were reminders of the countless challenges he had faced at the port, while the jingling of his tools strapped to his belt added an extra note to the musical chant as he walked.

"Damn, I miss going to the stadium," Alex expressed as he joined the breakfast, with a hint of frustration in his voice, reminiscing about the "World Cups" as he served himself a generous portion of bacon.

"The ball never dies, that's for sure," Alex continued with his mouth full, now focused on his eggs.

"We have two impeccable footballs from the old world and we're undefeated champions of the guild league," he proudly proclaimed between bites.

"Your humble servant holds the title of league top scorer," he added in a boastful tone, although it was well known that he also stood out as the team's "no-pass" player.

Argo smiled, completely focused on his breakfast, while attentively listening to his sister's boyfriend’s ramblings.

Suddenly, Canela’s interruption snapped him out of his reverie. "You're terrible at football, just a bunch of fat old men!" Canela said, joining the table with laughter, while Alex, almost choking on his food and visibly embarrassed, Canela added, "The good ones died with the bombs in the great war."

The scene left Argo wrapped in laughter, unable to contain the amusement at the situation.

"You have no heart, woman!" exclaimed Alex, finally swallowing with a half-offended expression, which took away the circus-like atmosphere he had carried with him.

"But you're amazing, love," Canela said with a touch of sarcasm but also affectionately, while winking at Argo, adding a hint of tenderness to the situation.

Alex looked at Argo with complicity, aware of Canela's sarcastic humor. "How are you feeling about the interview?" Alex asked Argo, abruptly changing the subject and marking a sudden shift in the atmosphere. "Ready," Argo replied firmly, making it clear his state of mind and his readiness to face the interview.