Search of Tempest

Chapter 8 ''My last day with them?''

I found myself surrounded by towering trees, the air thick with the scent of fresh leaves and the sound of birds chirping happily around me. Excitement bubbled up inside me, and without thinking, I reached out to pet the small birds perched nearby. They responded by playfully pecking at the sleeves of my shirt, their tiny beaks tugging gently as if trying to lead me somewhere. They took off, flying just ahead of me, and I followed without hesitation.

We ascended a staircase hidden within the forest, each step surrounded by the beauty of nature. The trees were tall and majestic, their leaves whispering in the breeze. Around me, animals went about their lives—some drinking from a crystal-clear stream, others munching on fruits, while a few lounged lazily in the sun. Everywhere I looked, there was happiness, a pure, untainted joy that made me smile. It was as if the entire forest was alive with contentment, a perfect harmony that I could feel deep in my chest.

The birds continued to guide me upward until I noticed a light shining ahead. "What's that light?" I wondered, my excitement growing with each step. But as I approached, the light intensified, becoming almost blinding. "Isn't this a bit too bright?" I thought, squinting as it grew brighter and brighter. It soon became unbearable, like staring directly into the sun. I quickly closed my eyes, shielding my face with my forearms as the light reached its peak, shining as brilliantly as a star at close range.

After a moment of silence, the birds' soft chirping returned, coaxing me to open my eyes. Slowly, I lowered my arms and found myself standing on the edge of a mountain cliff. The scene before me was breathtaking—rolling mountains stretched out as far as I could see, some covered in dense forests, others capped with snow. The sky was a perfect shade of blue, dotted with fluffy white clouds, and the sun bathed the entire landscape in a warm, golden glow. Below, a river wound its way through the valley, sparkling like a silver ribbon.

I stood there, awestruck by the sheer beauty of it all. Dove birds fluttered around, some perched on the edge of the cliff, adding to the serene atmosphere. One of them landed gently on my shoulder, and I reached up to pet it, feeling a connection to this peaceful world. My dad had taught me how to treat animals, and the dove responded to my touch, cooing softly in appreciation.

I took in the view again, unable to contain my joy. "This is just like..." I began, but the words failed me. Instead, I took a deep breath of the crisp, fresh air and shouted, "I've found my heaven!"

As if in response, a loud "Keow!" echoed through the mountains. I looked up and saw a massive peacock perched on a rocky peak nearby. Its feathers shimmered in the sunlight, and with a graceful motion, it spread its magnificent tail, revealing a dazzling array of colors. I couldn't tear my eyes away from the sight—it was stunning, like something out of a dream.

The peacock let out another call, then slowly spread its wings wide, preparing to take flight. I watched, mesmerized, as it soared above me, its wings cutting through the air with ease. It was large and majestic, a symbol of beauty and freedom. As it glided over me, our eyes met for a brief moment, and then it descended into the depths of the foggy forest below.

I stood there, watching until it disappeared, when I noticed something drifting down from the sky. A single peacock feather, delicate and light, floated toward me. I extended my hand, ready to catch it, but then I saw something else—an object falling faster than the feather. It overtook the feather, and I stepped forward to catch it, curiosity piqued.

I opened my hand to reveal... an alarm clock? I stared at it, bewildered. Before I could even make sense of it, the clock started ringing violently, yanking me out of my dream. I blinked a few times, disoriented, as my room slowly came into focus. The serene world of my dream faded away, replaced by the dimly lit walls of reality. I glanced at the clock—5:01 AM.