At its altitude, the aircraft passed through mountains and rolling hills, allowing anyone sitting near the window to enjoy the Himalayan view. Carrie leaned against her seat, holding an empty vomit bag. Since the flight, knots have formed in her stomach. Her ears had popped, and she had headaches from pressure changes and dry cabin air.
“Are you okay?” Baki asked.
“I want this flight to end.”
The captain’s voice blared over the intercom. “Good afternoon. We’re about to descend at Paro International Airport. Passengers must return to their seats and fasten their seatbelts. Stow away trays and electronics. We will send our flight attendants to collect trash.”
Carrie stowed away her tray table and checked her seatbelt. Soon, the avian crew arrived, carrying garbage bags. They strolled along the aisle, collecting trash from passengers, while the captain announced the descent.
“What’s happening?” Carrie asked.
“Relax. Everything will be alright,” Baki assured.
Carrie, however, couldn’t relax. The changing cabin pressure ached her eardrums like they were about to burst. She clutched her cross necklace and muttered a prayer as worst-case scenarios flashed through her brain. The airplane shook as it touched something solid. When nothing awful happened, she released her tight grip on her pendant and exhaled.
“Ladies and gentlemen. Welcome to Paro International Airport. The time is 5:30 pm. Be sure to grab your bags before departing,” the captain said through the speaker. “On behalf of the crew, I would like to express our gratitude for selecting Druk Air.”
When it stopped, the jet’s engines shut down. Crew members unlocked the plane’s doors as passengers disembarked. The staff gathered litter and rubbish around the cabin. Once the plane was empty of the passengers, the duo exited.
Stepping outside, Carrie shielded her face from the bright sunlight. After adjusting her vision, her mouth dropped open. The airfield lay in a lush valley surrounded by mountains. Tiny houses and buildings sat in the foothills, close to the runway. The terminal resembled an ancient shrine with its elegant design and ornate carvings.
While in awe, her headache prevented her from admiring it. Resting her palm on her temple, she descended the stairs with Baki. When they stepped inside the building, the interior blew her away. Rows of ornate patterns adorned the ceilings, walls, pillars, and floors. Shops and restaurants offer a variety of foods and goods. Sighing, Carrie walked toward the exit, ignoring the negative emotions that threatened to consume her.
Baki sensed her distress. “Is everything alright, dear child?”
“Just tired, and my head hurts.”
“Jet lag, eh? Once I grab my bag from baggage claim, we’ll find a place to rest.”
***
They left the facility after a brief visit to the luggage claim area. Baki spotted several auto-rickshaws waiting for clients. With Carrie in tow, he approached one, knocking on the window. A young woman rolled down her window and greeted them. The motorist agreed when Baki requested a ride to the nearest hotel. She gestured for them to climb aboard the vehicle. The operator started the engine and maneuvered on the road.
Baki admired the scenery and marveled at the sights. He pointed out a few landmarks, but Carrie only listened, wrapped in her world. Her head throbbed from the auto rickshaw’s honking and loud engine.
After some time, they arrived at the Nirvana Inn. Encircled by lush forests, the hotel provided a peaceful environment. Upon receiving the driver’s thanks, they entered the inn. Antique furniture gave the lobby a vintage feel, and the warm fireplace made it even cozier.
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Killer Instinct: Carrie Unleashed
Fanfiction"Carrie had an ability, but she was a person, not a monster. She had hopes and fears, and we pushed her. You can only push a person so far before they break." A dark veil fell over Chamberlain, Maine, after tragedy struck the quiet town at the hands...
