As the small bushplane struggled its way into a turbulent headwind, I kept my gaze out the window, partly admiring the rustic, wild scenery that was the african savannah. Mostly I had my eyes out for of the species I was here to study. I was a biologist, in my first year of grad school. Sent here by my advisor to study the mating patterns of giraffes. I had always been passionate about biology, animals had always fascinated me, and so pursing a masters in zoology was right up my lane. We landed on a grass strip outside a small village. Flying usually didn't bother me, but I wasn't usually flying in an 80 year old plane and landing in the middle of nowhere. Needless to say, I was happy to have my feet on solid ground. A man in his early 40s came up to me and identified himself as marcus, my guide for the duration of my stay.
"Safe travels I presume?"
"Yes, although I have to admit I wasn't sure I would make it alive."
He laughed and patted me on the shoulder.
"Please let me grab your bag and I will show you to where you will be staying."
We headed through the village. There was one fairly modern looking building, the base where most research and government enterprise took place. As well as a number of huts where the locals live. I even noticed a couple starlink dishes.
"I have to say, there are more modern luxuries than I was expecting"
"Yes we were very fortunate the last researchers here donated enough that we were able to renovate much of the town. It is better now than ever before."
After just 15 minutes of walking we arrived at a small thatched hut. Inside was a reasonable sized bed, with mosquito netting of course, a wash basin, and a cable connected to the small solar panel on the roof. At least I can use my laptop, I thought to myself.
"Please get yourself settled. I will have someone show you around and get you some food."