Blue skies, grey metal and blistering winds. The crew and their new tank rode along The Great Inland Highway towards Dog Town. John was resting his foot on the accelerator paying little attention to the road, only readjusting when the current course would veer off the road. Migs laid in a hot slump on the bean bags, soaked in sweat, trying to bear through the heat and taking as much of the air coming through the turret hole where Kaze and Suki were sitting. Hugo was also sitting outside just above the driving compartment, feeling the wind blow on his beard and bushy moustache. He enjoyed the quiet moments the crew got in between jobs. Ehma was tinkering with her hammer, adding more parts and adjusting the trigger and ignition.
While it was peaceful, there was still an air of uncertainty with the absence of a main gun.
After half the day of travelling, they stopped by an oasis to fill up on water.
"Let's rest for a bit. Dog Town's only an hour away," John said as he leaned out from his chair to gander at the crew.
As they stepped out onto the packed sands, Migs spotted something behind a rock across the little body of water. As he jumped on top of the tank to get a better view, he made a smearing grin.
"Calling it out lads. I think we got us some meat."
The crew looked out to where Migs was pointing. A large lizard climbed over the protruding rocks and met its eyes with them.
"FIRST HIT!" Migs shouted as he pulled back the bolt of his rifle and aimed at the lizard. The bullet shot with a deafening bang, leaving the lizard little room to avoid the crazed man.
After refilling their reserves and relieving themselves, they climbed back into the tank. Huge chunks of lizard meat in hand.
"We'll probably be able to sell this before it starts rotting," said Ehma.
Before long, they reach the outskirts of Dog Town where the little orchards are. As they lumbered around the rugged gravel, John found a spot out in the open and pulled in to park the tank. Migs and Ehma jumped out as soon as the engine turned off. They both lugged the huge bag of lizard meat between each other and ran for the butcher's store farther in the town.
"Hey Hugo, you should show Kaze and Suki around. How bout we meet up at the tavern later" Proposed John.
Hugo nodded his head and led the way for the two.
As he watched the three head down the streets, John went another way to the docks. He looked around for an available ferry and found a scruffy old sailor humming a shanty.
"Good evening sir" John greeted
"And good evening to you. How can I help?" Replied the sailor.
"Would you be able to ferry a large tank to Oz Town? My crew needs to get there." John asked.
"I don't see an issue why not to. It'll be about 300 gold. I'll cover food and water for you folks." Explained the sailor.
"Thank you very much sir." John thanked
"Names Willy by the way. Meet me tomorrow morning at dock 6. You can't miss it."