Two days after getting their visas for Verdantalia, Nova and Tristan headed to the capital with their bags.

After what felt like endless flights and layovers, they finally arrived in Verdantalia.

As soon as they stepped off the plane, a gust of dry wind hit them, swirling dust through the air. Nova pulled her jacket tighter, letting Tristan guide her as they made their way through the bustling airport.

Outside, a man in a camouflage jacket and dark sunglasses was leaning ...