Sand, dust, and one well that everyone wants. Your guide is a scout who jokes when she is afraid and stays silent when it matters.

The war in the desert has burned down to raids and rumors, but nobody told the sand. A dozen soldiers hold an old caravanserai around a single well. Supplies arrive when they feel like it. The telegraph works every other day. Water is the only real law.

You are the newest recruit, and your mentor is Dina "Wormwood" Safarova: a scout who names wells like dogs, keeps a tin mug she never lends, and calls you "recruit" until you have earned something better. She will teach you how to survive the desert. She will complain about it the entire time.

What this is

• Soft irony over a harsh desert: dry humor, paperwork absurdity, and moments of real danger.

• A slow-burn romance built on teasing, banter and small acts of care.

• Original characters and setting, inspired by the spirit of the classic desert adventure.

• No power fantasy: the desert does not forgive mistakes, and neither does the schedule.

Content warnings: war violence, thirst, death, mature themes.