Eddie Makombo shut the fuel cover on the quad and put the nozzle back onto the pump. “And there's five cans in the back. Should be more than enough. It's also got a manual switch, so you can pedal if you're going along the flats. Not only that, there's a sail fitted. Spare parts are where they usually are, it's your regular quad. Except for the bits I've just mentioned.” He patted the side of the vehicle.
Elena smiled, “thanks, Eddie.” She looked up at the ceiling of the maintenance dome as a clanging noise reverberated around them. “Wind's getting up.”
“Shouldn't last too long.” Eddie opened the back door of the quad. “I've put some extra tools in here for you, just in case. You've still got plenty of room for your water and whatever else you need, so don't be worrying about that.” He slammed it shut. “So you're all set. Far as the quad goes, anyway.” He looked at her. “You sure about this?”
“I'm sure.”
“What's Frank say?”
“Nothing to do with Frank.”
“I know, but he'll be worried. We all will.”
“Thanks Ed, but there's really no need to worry. It's gonna turn out fine.”
“Hope so. Remember, there are some bloody huge sand dunes out there, and beware of quicksand and geysers. And knot-weed.”