Chronicles and Stories of a Melted Heart

Of what your heart asks, what your mind tells, and where your will can take you!

Tuesday, November 24, 2009

Dream Weaver III : Fearing the Nightmare


Description: This part will encounter several trials and problems that Mhart and the others will face. Before this part was published, the Writer took a lot of time to think of the scenes and sequences that will happen in this part. The Writer also thought of having moments of thinking and analyzing the scenes and match each and every idea that he has in mind. If you liked the Part 1 and 2 of the Dream Weaver, hope you’ll like this one too.

5:00 in the morning, Mhart was awaken by the dream that almost made him uneasy and bothered; the incident that may happen to Janine Edinburg. It has been 3 weeks since they left Silica Town, and they are expecting for Janine’s arrival from Silica Town this day, 10:00am of Friday. So, Mhart decided to start the morning early and right. 20 minutes, after he washed his face, an explosion happened outside their house that awakened Rose, Ivan and John. Mhart hurriedly grabbed his sword and ran outside their house. He was shocked of the little damage that the explosion made. So he kept his eyes open and explored their place to see who made the explosion. Because of the little amount of light surrounding the place, it became difficult for him to see who did it. A minute passed when he noticed a rocket approaching their house. Mesmerized of what he must do, he readies himself for what may happen because he knows that his sword can do nothing with a rocket. Meters away from their house, Mhart was shocked of a hurriedly launched rocket from his back and he saw the rockets exploded from mid-air. It was Ivan who launched the rocket!



Mhart : Thanks Ivan! Where did you get that freaking rocket launcher?
Ivan : Well, Mr. Wilson gave this to me while you were hospitalized.
Rose : You’re being so selfish Mhart! You knew that an explosion happened and another rocket approaches our house, why didn’t you call us up?
Mhart : Sorry for that. I don’t even know that the target of that rocket is our house so I decided to do this alone and not to disturb you anymore.
John :
(whispering to Ivan) Here’s another war of lovers.
Rose : Are you saying something John?
John : Oh! No nothing!
Mhart : (smiled) Stop it guys. John, take care of Rose for a while and try to arrange the damages in our house if there’s any. Ivan, come with me. I think I know where the rocket was launched.
John : Sure thing Mhart!
Rose : Shouldn’t you take me also?
Mhart : It may be dangerous out there Rose. Ivan and I can take care of this.
Rose : Alright. Just take care.
Mhart : Of course we will. Let’s go Ivan.
Ivan : Alright! Let’s rock things out!

Mhart knew that the area where the rocket was launched is not that far from their location. He ran hurriedly with Ivan to the location. Minutes have passed; Mhart and Ivan saw some equipment that the suspect used to launch the rockets. Mhart scanned the area because the suspects may not be far enough to escape. Ivan noticed a broken necklace that he suspects to belong to the suspects.

Ivan : Mhart, take a look at this. I saw a necklace in the bushes. The suspects may be heading north-east, and that is heading to Dune City.
Mhart : (shocked) This … this necklace … I know this necklace!
Ivan : Really? So you know who the suspect is?
Mhart : Yes. I have no doubt that he is the one behind this!
Ivan : Maybe, they ran away when they noticed that someone counter-attacked their rocket. But, who is he, or maybe, who are they?
Mhart : That’s true. And the man who owns this necklace is the son of a gang leader named Arckin Drake. His son is Andrew Drake.
Ivan : So, that Andrew is the one who did this?
Mhart : Yeah. He’s the one!
Ivan : But why did he do this crap? And are you sure that he is the one who owns this necklace?
Mhart : I have no idea. But, I guess it has something to do with Janine Edinburg. That necklace was once owned by Janine. It was given to her by her mother.
Ivan : How come? And how did that necklace be owned by Andrew if the real owner is Janine?
Mhart : Janine sold it to him as payment for their family’s debt but even if they paid their debts and sacrificed the necklace, it is still not enough so Arckin Drake ordered their family to be killed. And Janine survived because she was taken by her aunt in Silica Town, 5 years ago.
Ivan : But I thought, her parents died in a car crash?
Mhart : No. They were shot by a sniper whom was caught by the 5 sword warriors that resulted the car to crash. We were a little late to rescue Janine’s parents. So we just decided to catch the sniper who did it, and fortunately, he admitted to us that Arckin Drake is the one who ordered the killing.
Ivan : What is Janine’s family’s connection to Arckin Drake?
Mhart : I don’t know either. All I know is that they have debts to pay to Arckin Drake. And the rest, that’s for us to know later when Janine arrived in our place. For now, we must head back home.
Ivan : Shouldn’t we follow them to Dune City?
Mhart : It is enough for us that we know now who did this. Let’s head back home.
Ivan : Alright.

Looking confused, Mhart and Ivan arrived home safe but uneasy. Meters away from home, they noticed that Rose and John are waiting for them outside their house. Rose and John fixed everything that can be restored and disposed all the totally damaged things. The house still looks good and it looks like it didn’t have any damages.

Rose : Hey John, here comes Mhart and Ivan.
John : Yeah, I can see them.
Ivan : Were home! Have you prepared the breakfast?
Rose : Just take some coffee and bread! We have no time to cook for breakfast.
Ivan : Alright, alright! I’ll just go inside and have my breakfast!
Mhart : Ivan, will you please make me a cup of coffee also?
Rose : Don’t bother make his coffee Ivan, I already did it. Uhm Mhart, your coffee is on that table.
Mhart : Is it still hot?
Rose : Of course it is! Your breakfast is ready. I made it after fixing things up. And besides, it just 9:10am, we can still chill for a moment before Janine arrives.
Mhart : You have a point. If you don’t mind, will you join me for my breakfast? And so are you John, I have something to tell you guys.
Rose : What about Ivan?
Mhart : I’ve already told him about this matter. He can take a rest for a while.

After Mhart told John and Rose the things behind the necklace, they were shocked of the tragedies happened before. Mhart said to them that nothing must be told to Janine about what happened and what they know. He thought that it will be good if they know the real story behind the necklace and who Janine really is and it will be good for Janine to know that Mhart is the only one who knows her history.

John : But, I though that you, Ivan and Rose grew together with Janine, so, its much better for Janine if all of us knows her history.
Mhart : No John. If she will know that all of us know her history, she will be bothered to worry about us! I can sense that my dream may happen. And this is the start of it! Janine will be the root of this!
Rose : You’re right Mhart. We will face another trouble.
John : I’ll be ready for anything Mhart. We’re just here for you no matter what.
Mhart : Thanks. But what I worry much is Janine. The dream ... I must reverse it!
Rose : Don’t worry much Mhart, it’s just a dream!
John : But still, it may happen or not, we must be ready!

Mhart lighted his cigarette and sipped his coffee. He is filled with mixed emotions, worrying about his dream. It’s such a coincidence that the time that Janine will arrive in Dehi City with her aunt and younger brother, will also be the time that an incident related to Janine will happen also. Mhart is puzzled of what much worst problem will come their way. Rick, Chris, Erin and Kristin will also arrive any minute now, but Mhart don’t have a clue on how to tell this to them. 20 minutes of silence passed, and their four friends came, and they all look troubled and in a hurry to bring the terrible news and could be, another mission for them. Mhart, Rose and John stood up from where they are seated to talk to Rick, Erin, Kristin and Chris. Mhart called Ivan and he immediately responded to Mhart’s call. Rick handed Mhart the letter that Mr. Wilson addressed to all of them. Mhart read the letter to them which states:

My Dearest Warriors,

I just arrived 3 days ago from my long vacation upon receiving the news that there are couple of explosions happened to different areas of Dehi City.
I just want to check on all of you if you are all
fine. The purpose of this letter is for you to be informed that there will be another mission that you have to accomplish. Reports say that Mr. Arckin Drake, leader of a money laundering gang which illegally launders money and renders money to people in need and gives them
a 20% high interest! And those who can’t pay them are killed.
I need you guys to take care of this matter and eliminate the wrong doings of this gang. Anytime this afternoon, a cargo truck will come to Mhart’s place. The map to
Dune City where this gang’s hideout is located will be given to you by my assistant, Luke Anderson. The cargo truck carries all of the equipments and weapons you’ll need for this mission. By the way Mhart, in a long metal box inside the cargo truck is a
personally customized light-weight big sword for you. Hope you’ll like it. We have no time to waste to talk and have a meeting. And besides, I have a great trust that you can finish this mission in no time. Rick will take over again to lead your group. That will be all guys.

Mr. Wilson

For Rick, Chris, Erin and Kristin, this is just a mission for them to finish. Mhart asked Rose and Ivan to tell them the real story behind the mission that they will be handling. While they were telling who the Drakes are, Mhart asked John to come with him to his favorite place to rest, the rock under the tree. Mhart brought his sword with him.

John : Why do you want to talk to me Mhart? Shouldn’t we be there to fix things up for the mission that is given to us?
Mhart : We’ll do it later. I just want you to have this sword. You are really a strong-willed person of great confidence. As I saw you before, after I got out of the hospital, you were cleaning this sword right? And you have taken care of this so much and I know that you want to yield one of these in time, so, here, take this sword and this is now yours.
John : But I am not worthy to take this sword and I am not that good anymore in using swords.
Mhart : Trust! Trust in your abilities, trust in yourself. That is what you need to be a noble sword user.
John : Alright. I’ll do what you say. You still are my best friend though we have been apart for years.
Mhart : I know I can trust you my friend. We better get moving. Let’s have a talk with them regarding our mission.
John : Let’s go, and thanks again, my friend!

A sword, the greatest treasure a knight can have. John was so grateful to yield a sword once more. Before Mhart became a part of the 5 greatest sword warriors in Dehi City, he was once with John to train using swords in Dehi Small Town, just a small town not far from Dehi City where Mhart grew. John lived just for 10 years in Dehi City but often visits Dehi Small Town to have training with Mhart and the other sword trainees. But after those 10 years, John and his family left Dehi City to live in Morella Town to start a new life which resulted to him, being a military soldier for that town.

They wasted no time. Once Rick, Chris, Erin and Kristin was informed of the troubles that Janine have encountered before they decided to have Janine be guarded at their house by Ivan, Kristin and Chris because Mhart feels that the target of this Andrew and Arckin Drake will be her. The three agreed. Rick requested Mhart to lead the group but he refused to take the offer because he feels the need of this mission for him to be just a member and be the front liner of the group alongside with John.

It’s already 3 minutes passed 10:00am, and Janine finally arrived. But they were in shock that she is alone, but as usual, she stills holds a rose. Mhart and John were together beside a tree near their house and just gave a fast look on Janine arrival and continued to train with the sword that Mhart gave John.

Rick : Janine, stay inside the house the three other girls are there.
Janine : But why?
Chris : We must not tell you anything. Go inside and have a talk with the girls.
Rick : That’s is right. They will be one to tell you what’s going on. Ivan, will you escort her inside? Don’t forget to return here ASAP. You are needed here.
Ivan : I will.
Janine : Aren’t you over-reacting guys?
Ivan : Just go. We must follow orders.
Janine : Well, I have an idea of what’s going on but you shouldn’t react like that guys.
Ivan : (whispers to Janine) Let’s just follow him. These are Mhart’s ideas for your protection.
Janine : Alright, alright.

Janine calmly entered the house where Erin, Kristin and Rose were waiting for her. Ivan immediately went out of the house and seated on a bench beside the door. Rick and Chris were standing outside the house and looking around for any possible danger to come. Still, Mhart trains John for him to be refreshed of the trainings that they have gone before when they were just trainees. It’s almost 12:00 noon; Janine is still puzzled of what going on with her friends. She sat down in a chair of the dining table where Erin, Rose and Kristin were waiting.

Janine : What is going on with the boys?
Rose : Do you have an idea of the explosions happening in Dehi City?
Janine : Yes. That’s why Aunt Laura and my younger brother didn’t come. I am the only one who insisted to go here even if I know that it’s dangerous.
Erin : Mhart told us that you never break promises so we prepared for your arrival.
Kristin : Have you eaten your lunch?
Janine : I’m already full. I’ve already eaten my lunch before I leave the town. Uhm, why are you all looked worried. If you worry about me, I am just fine. Those explosions won’t kill me.
Kristin : We received the news that Arckin and Andrew Drake are the ones behind these explosion.
Janine : I know those people. And that was 5 years ago.
Erin : And the reason why we must take care of you. Their target now must be you. We’re not sure of that, but we must be careful before anything may happen.
Rose : Is this yours? (She showed her the necklace)
Janine : YEAH! This is the necklace that I sold to Andrew Drake 5 years ago so that we can pay our debts to their family.
Kristin : Debt for what? That necklace looks expensive. That would be enough to pay any debt right?
Janine : My father borrowed more than a million to their family. I’m not so sure of the specific value but that’s all I know. I don’t even know why I am taken by my aunt Laura to Silica Town. Then I just received the news that my parents got into an accident that killed them both.
Rose : Don’t be shocked Janine, but your parents didn’t caught in an accident. They were killed.
Janine : How? Evidences show that they died in that car accident. No sign that they were killed.
Rose : That is true because of the high explosive device installed in their car. The killer is a hired assassin by the Drake family. You know that Mhart became the leader of the 5 greatest sword warriors right?
Janine : Yes. Why?
Rose : They were the ones who caught the sniper assassin and made him admit who ordered him to kill your parents.
Erin : Now you know about this matter, we request you to stay in this house so you can be safe.
Janine : How can you be sure of that?
Rose : Kristin and Erin, Janine doesn’t have an idea of who we really are. Janine, this is the right time for you to know who we really are. We are now hired gunmen for Mr. Wilson to eliminate gangs and groups who kills people, betrays people and fools people.
Janine : So, Mhart is one of you?
Kristin : That is true. Every one of us is a hired gunman. Or should we say assassins also.
Janine : Now I know, and things are clear for me now.

One and a half hour passed, and then the cargo truck came. Kristin went outside the house to check on the truck. Erin, Rose and Janine stayed inside of the house for their safety. After parking the truck in their backyard, Mr. Luke Anderson introduced himself to them and handed them the map that they will need for their mission to Dune City and said that it’s a 7 hour drive from their place. But they were shocked that only minutes have passed, a very enormous looking car arrives. Mr. Luke told them that, that car is the one that they will use for the mission. Their 7 hour drive can be cut to a 5 hour drive only due to its sports-typed engine and race-car design. So they decided to leave their place at 5:00pm so they will arrive at Dune City at exactly 10:00 in the evening. Mhart went to the truck and left John practicing his sword skills. Chris opened the back of the truck and they were shocked of the huge number of weapons that they can use for the mission. Mhart jumped in and looked for the box where his sword is placed. When he finally got it, he jumped out of the truck and immediately opened the box. He pulled out that sword and was so enticed by the beauty and lightness of the sword though it is really huge. When John looked back, he saw Mhart holding the sword he got from Mr. Wilson. He was shocked of the size of the sword. With Mhart, they practiced using swords. After getting the equipments down the truck, they arranged it in their storage room at the underground of their house. With no time to waste, and for Luke Anderson’s safety, Rick ordered him to go back immediately to Mr. Wilson to address their gratitude of bringing them the weapons they need.

15 minutes before 5:00pm, Mhart, John, Rick, Erin, and Rose were ready to go for the mission proper. Kristin, Ivan and Chris were also fully armored to protect Janine for any unexpected attack. They were all fully armored and ready to go to eliminate Andrew Drake and his father, Arckin Drake. They know that this mission won’t be easy unlike their former mission in eliminating Mr. Biggs that Mhart is the only one who finished it. Mhart is still worried about Janine. But he had no choice, the mission needs him. So they immediately started the engine of the car and followed the map that Mr. Luke Anderson gave them. The car started like there will be no tomorrow. They finally left their place. Kristin, Chris, Ivan and Janine looked worried about their mission with only the five of them to do it.

The place is dark, almost nothing to light the city. The area where they are looks like a deserted place. The cold breeze of the wind is like the whispers of ghosts living in the area. Just like before, Mhart wears black armor and gauntlets, with his sword on his back. John is almost the same as Mhart’s armors. Erin, who’s beside Rick, wears tight armor and a couple of hand guns surrounding her waist. Rick wears a big shoulder pad on his left with his clothes, moving freely with the wind and has his 2 big rifles forming a cross on his back and he holds 2 huge hand guns. Rose holds a long, spear-like dagger on her right and a big hand gun on her left and she wears tight red clothes. They are a couple of meters away from the mansion of the Drakes’. Mhart is in the middle of the street, looking right in front of the mansion. The others are hiding beside the walls. There is no sign of fear in Mhart’s face. Rick whispers Mhart to hide first before they sneak inside the mansion. But just like before, Mhart hears nothing. Rose fears that Mhart will do the attack alone again. Minutes have passed, a guard of the mansion saw Mhart standing still, so he walked slowly towards Mhart to see who it is.

Mhart : (whispering to Rick and the others) As I attacked this dumb guard, Rick, Erin, sneak inside from the west. John and Rose, you take the east. If I attacked this stupid guard, the others will come to get me, so you’ll have the chance to sneak inside.
Rose : But what about you?
Mhart : I can take care of them. And besides, they are just like class E warriors. They can never take down a leader of the 5 great warriors of Dehi City.
Rose : Alright, we’ll be waiting for you inside.

10 metes, 9 meters, 8 meters, and at 5 meters, he’ll do the attack. Seconds run, 7 meters, 6 meters, Mhart drew his sword and readies himself for the attack. 5 meters, Mhart attacked the helpless guard, slashed his tummy out. It is the signal of Rick, Erin, Rose and John to sneak inside. Like what Mhart is expecting, few numbers of guards went outside of the mansion to attack him. It’s rocking the night out time! He easily wiped out the guards with his sword. But there are still guards going out of the mansion. So he’s confident that his four friends are already inside.

John and Rose did well in sneaking inside of the mansion. They climb up a tree and reached for the mansion’s wall. Quietly, they got inside the mansion’s backyard. With Rose’s gun, equipped with a silencer, she easily killed out some of the remaining guards. John is at her back, poses with his sword readies himself for any unexpected attack.

Erin and Rick did almost the same as John and Rose. But they remained a bit longer on the top of the tree. Rick customized his rifle with a silencer and a sniping lens. His specialty is with sniping. Erin covers his back also for any attack from his rear. Once they cleared out the remaining guards from the west part of the mansion.

Rick and Erin walked slowly and quietly went to where John and Rose were. When they finally meet at the rear door of the house, they decided to wait for Mhart for a moment. They waited for a couple of minutes. Mhart took so much of the time so they just decided to head inside the house because they can’t wait for Mhart for too long. Slowly, John and Rick pushed the door to open with Rose and Erin aiming inside the house for any chance of an attack. Rose and Erin almost fired when they noticed that the one standing inside was Mhart holding his sword in his shoulders, his face and armor, marked with bloodstains. Rose became worried if Mhart had any wounds. Luckily, he doesn’t have any. Rick, Erin and John just smiled and they proceed inside the mansion.

Mhart : The coast is clear in this first floor. John, why didn’t you use your sword?
John : There’s no chance of any attack. How did you know that I haven’t used it yet?
Mhart : There’s no any bloodstain in your sword. Swords are not for defense. You are the front liner. But never mind.
Rick : There you go again Mhart, taking care of things alone.
Mhart : No I’m not! I just, you know, advanced???
Erin : Enough of that, we have a mission to do!
Rose : Yeah! They’re maybe on the second floor or the third floor.
Mhart : DOWN!!! ENEMIES AT YOUR BACK!!!

Mhart saw the enemies at John, Erin, Rose and Rick’s back! So they kneeled down to dodge any gunshot. But Mhart jumped over them and hurriedly attacked the newly summoned guards of the mansion. John stood up and does what Mhart did, he also ran towards the guards and moved swiftly like Mhart is. Mhart smiled at him and so is John. They moved like they were just playing a game. Erin, Rick and Rose were just staring at them and they were shocked of John’s fast improvement under Mhart’s supervision of training him. They wiped out the guards easily. After they finished them all, they walked towards Erin, Rick and Rose. They smiled at each other. Few seconds later, a voice cut their moment of fun.

??? : So, you are the warriors of Dehi City! Where is Janine Edinburg? If she can’t pay me, I’ll let her life be the payment!

It’s Arckin Drake! He’s on the second floor’s terrace. Erin, Rick, John, and Rose ran to see Arckin Drake. But Mhart is left standing in the front of the door facing them, thinking of something, seemed scared, but full of anger. He remembered in his dream in this part. It’s like a déjà vu! This is the part where he woke up because a gunshot killed him. From inside the house, a sniper aims straight to Mhart. Erin noticed the red laser of the gun. Seconds passed, Erin fired directly on Mhart but she intended not to hit him. Mhart still looked unconscious, Erin ran to Mhart, the sniper fired, she hugged him and lifted him around. Erin had sacrificed her life for Mhart. She had 3 gunshots on her back. Mhart finally got conscious, and he noticed Erin, slowly falling in front of him. He held her in his arms; she’s slowly losing her life. With great rage of anger, Rick fired multiple gunshots to where the sniper fired; John ran inside the house to catch the sniper who killed Erin; Rose fired directly at Arckin Drake and she successfully killed him. John saw the sniper, it is Andrew Drake! Though it is a long distance shot, Rick luckily killed Andrew with his multiple gunshots. John immediately ran back to Mhart and Erin, and so is Rose. Rick fall down on his knees, and tears started to fall down. Mhart, holding Erin, started to cry. He feels so ignorant, useless, he feels that it is a shame that it’s him who’s supposed to save lives but this tragedy happened.

Rick : (shouting) This is your fault Mhart!!! Your fault!!! You killed her!!!
Rose : (embraces Rick tightly) No Rick! It’s an accident! No one intended this to happen!
John : Rose is right Rick! If this is someone’s fault, no, I mean, it’s our entire fault! We could have saved her or Mhart! But see, Erin is the only one who saw the sniper. And it’s her decision to take the bullet for Mhart!
Rick : He is the one who is supposed to save us! For he is the greatest amongst us! But look at this! Look at what he did!
Mhart : I know … I know I can save you all. I know … I know you depend on me. But I say, not all knights in shining armor, can fulfill your dreams, save your lives, nor make you worry nothing.

Tears filled their eyes; loneliness embraces them with the cold wind. Mhart can’t hide what he feels. He cried, non-stop. Rick went silent, realizing how great Erin is.

Erin : I … I can’t … I can’t fight no … more … I’m letting go. I can’t … hold on any … longer. My dearest Rick, it’s no one’s fault … it’s my own choice … if I … didn’t do it … maybe we are … all dead … by now. A loss of a great … warrior … a loss of the … best warrior … in our group … is a … loss of all … of us … never blame … anyone Rick. Live long … my friends … we’ll see each other … again … sometime … somewhere. Mhart, I loved … you my … friend … that’s why you … must … not be sacrificed. Rick … you know … how … much I love … you. You gave … meaning to my … existence … live well … and protect … all of our friends … goodbye … and I love …

Erin died, and she didn't even had the chance to finish what she has to say. Screams filled out the area. Tears flooded their eyes. Rick realizes that it’s no one’s mistake. Every warrior lives, fights, and later, dies. Rick walked kneeling towards Erin’s body. He embraces her body tightly, he cries continuously. Mhart stood up crying. Rose went to embrace Mhart. John is seated on the ground, his back leaning on the wall, crying, dropped his sword and blames also himself in secret.

Half and hour have passed, Rose and John carried Erin body to the car. Mhart and Rick had a small talk.

Mhart : I … uhm … am sorry for what happened Rick. It’s my fault I lost focus that resulted to a life wasted.
Rick : No Mhart, like what she said, it’s no one’s fault, it’s her choice. We are friends, we must not argue about this. We don’t want this to happen. If we will blame each other about this, Erin won’t be happy about it. And beside her life didn’t come into waste. She did her part as our friend, my loyal lover, and a great warrior. It’s also my fault to have her with us. But it’s her choice. She has done much for us.
Mhart : We’re all sorry for what happened. We should get going. Let’s return to Dehi City to give her a peaceful burial.

Saturday morning, 9:00am, they arrived in Dehi City. Janine, Ivan, Kristin and Chris were waiting for them to arrive. Mr. Wilson is also there to see them. But once Rick, Mhart, John and Rose got out of the car, Rick carried Erin’s body, lifeless. Kristin and Janine started crying and fall down to their knees. Ivan punched the house’s wall and started crying. Chris embraced Kristin and he also started crying. Mhart sat down in a bench, with his sword lying in his lap, and tears started falling to his sword. Mr. Wilson also cried. Rose told them what happened and they were all grateful to know that Erin did so much for them, for the mission, for the love, and for their friendship. Minutes passed, they did nothing but to cry. Commemorating the happy memories they had with Erin. Realizing, she really isn’t dead. Her body just got lifeless, but with the memories they had with Erin, it lives in their hearts and minds. She will forever be alive in their memories and their hearts.

3:00 in the afternoon, Thursday, they decided to have Erin’s body be buried. Friends, relatives, and so are the members of Mr. Wilson’s company are there to give sympathy and condolences and have the chance to see Erin for the last time. Everyone started crying upon the lowering of her casket. Janine, Kristin and Rose haven’t stopped crying for hours. Rose cried in Mhart’s shoulders and he can’t resist crying. Rick was totally in deep loneliness upon Erin death. They will always remember Erin, her smile, the way she makes them happy, her strength that influences them to be strong also. She will always be a big part of their lives.

A week has passed, they can’t move on upon Erin’s death. They are all silent. They haven’t talked too much to each other since Erin passed away. In that week that has passed, Chris, Kristin, Erin and Janine stayed in Mhart’s house for them to be with each other. Rick haven’t spoken a word, he rarely eats well. But they were all there to take care of Rick and make him realize that everything will be fine. Mhart’s thoughts still lingers in his mind. Though their mission was successfully done, a life was sacrificed, a life was lost.

Janine : Guys! Why should we be sad? I bet Erin is happy now. She lives peacefully now! If we will be sad, she sees us, and she will feel the same also.
Rose :
She’s right. Should we start a new life now? She never leaves us when she was still alive. And now, she may not be physically present, she’ll be alive in our hearts forever.
Chris : Rick, cheer up bro! Erin will be sad if she sees you like that!
Kristin : Let’s start a new life together! We can still be like before even if we lost someone.
Ivan & John : Yeah!

They started to move on with their lives without Erin. They all continue to do what they have to do. Mr. Wilson provided them the things they will need for everyday, so they will never worry about anything else. Chris, Kristin and Rick decided to build a house beside Mhart’s house so they will not be apart from each other. Janine decided to stay with them also, without the worries of being haunted by anyone anymore. But Mhart is still affected, sitting alone in his room’s terrace, drinking his beer, taking up cigarettes and never removed his eyes from his sword. Thinking if he will still continue to be a warrior or just forget and start a new life, alone. It’s still a big puzzle for him to fix. A question to answer, a life to fix; here goes Mhart again, having his tie alone to think of anything, and everything. This will still prove that friendship are made and remains forever. Trials are nothing, but challenges to be conquered.

To be continued in the next episode …

THE END

Wednesday, November 11, 2009

Dream Weaver II : Bother No More

Description: From the story, "Dream Weaver", I decided to make a continuation of the story. This story will carry on the characters and the story flow of Dream Weaver and the up-coming events will now be self made, no dream-based events and no events nor settings are based in real life. I changed the dialogue format so that it will be easy to read. If you liked the first story, hope you'll like this one too.







It's been a long time for Mhart to recover from the damages made to him by their former mission. There are a lot of things that has changed even though only 3 months have passed. Mhart is still in recovery of his left arm which was badly injured by the explosion but because of the continuous medication, his arm will recover totally soon. Whenever he is permitted to leave the hospital, he will be living separately with Rose Wilder, Ivan Ravens, and John Annue. John decided to live with them because he wanted to start a new life with his best friend, Mhart. With Rick Enses, Erin Rolds, Kristin Gauze and Chris Mortell, they are now working for Mr. Wilson as hired gunmen. As for now, there are no missions sent to them.

A pleasant morning, fresh morning breeze of the wind, mild rays of sunlight and a calm sway of the trees, it is already 9:00 in the morning. Rose almost forgot that this is the day that Mhart will leave the hospital. She ran to her room to change clothes and hurriedly rushed out of the house and slammed the door shut. Ivan and John was outside resting on a bench. They heard the slam of the door and noticed that Rose is in a rush.

Ivan : HEY ROSE! WHY ARE YOU SUCH IN A RUSH?
Rose : Don't you remember? Mhart will be leaving the hospital today and he needs to be accompanied to our place! And one more thing, you don't have to shout at me! I'm not miles away from you!
Ivan : (shocked) Oh Yeah! I almost forgot! Let's go now, We need to get there at exactly 10:30am!
John : Hey! I wanna come too! Wait for me!
Rose : Nah uh! Just stay there and take care of the house. Be sure to clean the house before we come back!
John : But ...
Rose : NO EXCUSES! Just do what I said. We must not be late!
John : Alright...
Ivan : Faster Rose! You slowpoke! The cab is waiting!
Rose : Who's the slowpoke? You Scumbag!
John : (to himself) Why am I left alone here? I am Mhart's best friend! Nah ... Forget it. It's better to see him in surprise than to be the one to see him first. I better be working now.

Rose and Ivan took the cab to the hospital to be able to get there on time. Rose and Ivan are obviously in excitement to see Mhart and finally be with him again. 9:50 in the morning, after almost an hour of ride to the hospital, they finally arrived without the idea of a big surprise to come. When they arrived at the room where Mhart is resting, located at the second floor of the hospital, they were shocked that he is not there anymore! So they hurriedly went out of the room and asked a nurse where he is. The nurse said that he is in the garden of the hospital. So they rushed out to the garden to see him. Finally, they found him, but he is with a woman in plain blue dress. And they have no idea who she is. So they paused for a deep breath, and walked normally towards him.

Rose : Good morning Mhart! We ...

But before she could utter words to say to him, they were shocked of who they saw! It is Kristin Gauze. They exchanged smiles and greet one another.

Kristin : What were you saying Rose?
Rose : (in deep shyness, thinking of words to say) Uhmmm. I just ... I mean, we were looking for Mhart all over the hospital.
Mhart : Really? How did you find me?
Ivan : We asked a nurse if where are you staying. We thought that you already went home alone.
Mhart : Oh! Sorry to have you looking for me. Kristin came to visit me and I asked her to rest for a moment here in the garden. Besides, the doctor said that I'll be fine and I just have to rest more for fast recovery.
Kristin : That's true! I just remembered that Mhart will be going home this day so I came to pay a visit.
Rose : Is that so? But, where is Chris? Aren't you suppose to be with him?
Kristin : He's with Erin and Rick. They said that they will be the one to take care of our planned vacation months ago and they thought of setting it on the following day.
Ivan : Really? So we'll be out for a vacation?
Kristin : Yeah! And we'll be going to Silica Town which is a 12 hour ride from here.
Ivan : That's nice to hear! But, will Mhart be alright?
Mhart : Of course I am ... I can even sucker punch you with my left arm!
Rose : Don't even try to do that Mhart. You're not yet fully recovered.
Ivan : I'm just kidding dude! Chill. Kristin, wanna go to our place and have a lunch with us? I'm starving!
Kristin : No Problem! Besides, Erin, Rick and Chris will be fetching me at your place. I have already informed them that I will go to your place to pay a visit after I meet Mhart in the hospital.
Rose : Should we go now?
All : Let's go!

When they arrived at their place, they saw John sitting beside a tree, waiting for them to arrive. Mhart noticed that he is cleaning his sword that Mr. Wilson gave him in their previous mission. Mhart asked them to stay for a while in a bench beside the door. He is planning to surprise John that he finally arrived. Slowly, he walks towards where John is sitting.

Mhart : Hey John!
John : (shocked) Mhart! You finally arrived! I am cleaning your sword after I have prepared our lunch. Look at your sword. It's as good as new!
Mhart : Thanks John. Let me try it. I missed using this sword.
John : (handed him the sword) Here you go.

Mhart got excited to use his sword again after a long time of being in the hospital. He swings his sword back and forth and it seems like he had never been in the hospital or not even injured. All of them are smiling for such great recovery that Mhart had gone in the past 3 months.

A great surprise came to them when they all went inside the house. Everything is in order, bunch of foods for their lunch are also ready. Because of their hunger, they hurriedly sat down in the chairs and began eating their splendid lunch that John had prepared.

After their lunch, Mhart decided to rest on a rock under the shade of a big tree near their house. He missed the place, the breeze of the cold wind and the gentle sway of the trees. Looking afar, Mhart remembered someone from the past, and he's bothered if where and how is she doing now. Mesmerized with mixed emotions and memories that bothers him, all he can do is to relax, rest and be alone. and he can't even hide the feelings that bothers him. And that is totally inevitable yet unexplainable. After some moments of being alone, before he could stand and go back to their house, Kristin showed up and sits beside him.

Kristin : You know, I just noticed, whenever you are alone, something always bothers you, you look uneasy!
Mhart : No I'm not! I just want to rest in this tree, and watch the trees sway to the blow of the wind.
Kristin : You don't have to hide anything from me. Your relief will only be to say your feelings or problems with someone. And I am here to help you out.
Mhart : Nah. These are just bunch of unexplainable emotions. There's nothing to worry about.
Kristin : Alright, I won't force you to tell me what bothers you.
Mhart : I swear, nothing to worry about me.
Kristin : So, how are you feeling now?
Mhart : I'm quite well, but I'm fine. This arm will be alright in no time.
Kristin : That's great!

While Mhart and Kristin is having a conversation, they don't know that Rose is looking at them through a window. A bit of jealous, a feeling of being left behind, and a care for him that he can't even feel. All she can do for now is to stare at them, allow herself to drown in the feeling of being disregarded and rejected. Ivan noticed her and tried to see where is she staring at. With a gentle tap on Rose's shoulder, Ivan tried to talk to her.

Ivan : Hey Rose! Jealous?
Rose : Of course not! I'm just looking after Mhart. You know, he's not yet totally recovered from the damages of the mission we have gone through! I'm just worried about OUR FRIEND!
Ivan : Chill girl, chill! You're so hot-headed. I'll just go out and help John with what he's doing.
Rose : That's the best idea you will do for today!

It's almost 2:00 in the afternoon, everyone is busy with what they are doing, except for Rose who is still staring at Mhart and Kristin. After a while, he saw Mhart stood up and left Kristin sitting under the tree. So she ran outside to talk to Mhart, and she asked him why is she left alone there. He is silent for a while, and thinking for the right words to say. Because Mhart have a great trust to Rose, he told her what happened.

In Mhart and Kristin's conversation, she opened up that things are going uneasy for her and Chris, that they often times had quarrels about certain things, even simple things! Misunderstandings are always on their way. So Mhart just had that piece of advice. "Be alone, and patch things up. Think of what made him mad about certain things and have a talk with him like what we have now. A simple talk and explanation can patch up your broken pieces". After that, he asked if he can leave her for a while and she agreed.

Minutes have passed, and Rick, Erin and Chris came. So they went to their house and talked about their planned vacation. They planned to have it the following day and everyone agreed. It seemed like nothing has happened to Rose, Mhart and Kristin that everything went well.

The vacation day came, and their ready to go to Silica Town. Everything is ready and the only thing that is waiting is their vacation house at Silica Town. On their rented car, they were seated as partners but Mhart is in the front passenger seat and Rose can't get her eyes out of Mhart, worrying about what bothers him. Everyone fell asleep aside from Mhart who's looking outside in the middle of nowhere. After the 12-hour ride to Silica Town, they finally arrived to their vacation house. So they immediately arranged their things and prepared their lunch. But as usual, Mhart is outside, having his time alone again. Erin and Rick went outside and saw Mhart alone, again. So they sit beside him and had a small talk with him.

Erin : Are you alright Mhart?
Mhart : All of you already asked me that matter. Of course I am alright. I am just thinking if what can happen to us if we were assigned again for another mission.
Rick : You're always interfering my plans! But I know you can take care of them alone.
Erin : And Mr. Wilson said that we wont be having any mission unless you are fully recovered. So, there's nothing to worry about.
Mhart : Is that so? That's a relief. Thanks
Erin : You will always be welcome! So, we'll leave you for a moment. We have something to do.
Rick : Yeah, we'll be going to the market for a while. Wanna come?
Mhart : No thanks. I have to rest some more. Just take care.
Erin & Rick : Sure thing!

Mhart is still bothered. He knows it's not the only thing that bothers him. He feels like he's trapped in a cage with no way out. A memory that can't even get out of his mind, a memory that haunts him wherever he goes, but he keeps on fighting that feeling, that memory that can't even leave his mind. So he decided to go inside the rest house to eat and chill with liquor to relax him out. When he had entered the rest house, he only saw Chris, sitting on a chair of the dining table.

Chris : So, how are you feeling now Mhart? It's been a while since we last saw each other huh?
Mhart : I'm feeling a lot better now. Why are you alone here? Where are the others?
Chris : They're upstairs, fixing things up. May I ask you of something?
Mhart : Sure thing! What is it?
Chris : Have you talked to Kristin? She's quite uneven now, or let's just say, she's a bit different. Maybe she lost her attitude of being hot-headed these past few days since we were at your house.
Mhart : Oh yes. Some sort of advice to cool her down, and forget all those weary emotions she had.
Chris : You became a big help again bro. Since you had that talk, were not anymore arguing about me, being always outside our house with some couple of friends.
Mhart : Oh! So, that's what she's talking about. You know, you should give her enough time to make her feel protected and loved. You must not make a woman worry about you!
Chris : Yeah, i know what should I do now. You're saying that, but don't you know, Rose cares for you a lot, she's worrying about you.
Mhart : I know, and I can feel it, but there's really something in my mind that haunts me until now, but it's not for you to know.
Chris : I respect it, and I won't force you to tell me what it is.
Mhart : Maybe, ill just go upstairs and rest for a moment. I'll leave you for a while.
Chris : Ok, rest well.

Mhart went to his room. He was shocked that Rose is the only one upstairs and she is in his room. When he entered the room, it was so clean and everything is well organized. Rose is staring outside the window. When she turned around to see who entered, she was in deep feeling of shame that Mhart saw her in his room. She walked to the door with her head down, but Mhart held her shoulder and asked her not to leave the room.

Mhart : Where are you going Rose? I still haven't thanked you for making this room a suitable place to rest.
Rose : Uhm. Nothing. Nowhere. I mean, I just did what I am supposed to do, to take care of you until you are fully recovered from your injuries.
Mhart : Thank you so much. Want some beer?
Rose : No, maybe I'll just drink the juice from your fridge.
Mhart : Alright.
Rose : Just find a place to sit, and I'll be serving your beer.
Mhart : I'll be here in the terrace for a cool place to chill.
Rose : Here's your beer. So, how's your arm?
Mhart : I can move it now. It doesn't hurt much like before. I guess, by the following weeks, I'll be fully recovered.
Rose : That would be nice to hear. So, how was your talk with Chris?
Mhart : You heard it?
Rose : Sorry, but yes, I heard it. That is why I'm in shame to talk to you a moment ago.
Mhart : Forget it. And besides, what's the big deal?
Rose : (whispering to herself) For you it's not, for me, it matters much.
Mhart : Are you saying something Rose?
Rose : Oh nothing! I'm just, you know ... Worried about you.
Mhart : I told you, there's nothing to worry about! By the way, where are the others? Kristin, Ivan and John?
Rose : Oh them? They're on the other room, finishing some stuff. They'll be out in any minute now to prepare our outdoor dinner and party later this evening.
Mhart : Oh. I'll just finish this can of beer and I'll take a nap.
Rose : uhm, Mhart, may I ask you one thing?
Mhart : What's bothering me?
Rose : How did you know that ... That's what I am about to ask?
Mhart : Everyone asks me that! I'm just fine there's nothing to worry about me.
Rose : No Mhart, you know you can't hide your emotions with me. You may lie to them, but not me.
Mhart : Alright! Alright! On my second month in the hospital, I dreamed about this woman. You know Janine Edinburg?
Rose : Yeah, I remember her. The woman who has a rose garden that always brings a rose wherever she goes.
Mhart : Yeah right. That's her.
Rose : So what about that woman whom you loved much?
Mhart : Yes I did but remember this. Past is past, were in the present, so why care about what negative happened in the past? It's not me being hurt in the past, it's the mistake.
Rose : Alright, alright! So, what about her?
Mhart : She'll be in great danger. That's why I'm bothered if it will happen.
Rose : You said past is past, and now you worry about her? You're difficult to understand Mhart.
Mhart : Yeah, it's true. But I just forgot the feeling, not the person! And I will care for her as much as I care for all of you 'coz you're my friends!
Rose : I don't want to argue with you Mhart. But she's gone for years. And we haven't received any news about her since she left our city.
Mhart : That's what I worry. If she'll be alright without us to look after her.
Rose : Don't worry about it. Don't stress yourself because of that matter. If you won't be able to do that, we will be here to take care of things.

A loud voice calling them from outside break their conversation. It's Chris and Rick calling them to go outside to see who's their visitor. So Mhart and the others hurriedly ran outside to check who it is. When they opened the door, they were shocked with who they saw. It's Janine Edinburg. She's the woman whom Mhart loved so much before and so is she. She's already 21, and still, that silent woman whom Mhart known before. She lives in Silica Town for 5 years. She was a childhood friend of Mhart, Ivan and Rose away back in their city. Though Mhart was in shock to see her, there's no sign that he still feels the same as before he was with Janine.

Janine : Hello there Mhart! It's been 5 years since we last met each other.
Mhart : How did you know that were here?
Janine : In the market, I heard your friends, Erin and Rick talking about your injury and how are you feeling now. So I talked to them if the Mhart that they're talking about is you, Mhart Winds. So I decided to join them so I can see you again.
Mhart : Is that so? It's nice meeting you again. You look different than before, but still, you have that rose with you!
Janine : Yeah! Since I lived here in Silica Town, I decided to make a rose garden in my place! Erin and Rick told me about your injury. How are you now?
Mhart : I'm fine, almost near to recovery. Care to join our little party this evening?
Janine : My pleasure! By the way, my family decided to return to our Dehi City by next month. We can be together again with Rose and Ivan!
Mhart : Really? That's good.

They shared stories of what has happened to their lives. There's a bit of introduction of John, Kristin, Chris and so are Erin and Rick though Janine already had a conversation on their way home. Rose felt uneasy and weary of having Janine in their company. But she knows that she can surpass this matter. After some talk and some laughter, they proceeded to setting up their outdoor party.

Later that evening, they had so much fun! It's like a refresher of their hardships during their previous mission. Everyone was full because of the foods that they prepared and they had a small drinking session. Mhart just had a bit because he had to rest and recover his injury. But he stayed and talked about several things that their fond of. The night had passed, Ivan, Rick, Chris and John was drunk and Janine decided to stay for a night in their place. They night was full of fun. Because of this small gathering, Mhart has forgotten what bothers him and it will be a big help for him to recover fast. He knew that if Janine will be back to their city, there will be nothing to worry about her. They stayed for a week in Silica Town and enjoyed everyone's company. Janine often returns to their place to bond with them and know them even better. Things went easy on them with no mission to worry about, no problems to bother them and no time to waste upon their vacation in Silica Town.

After a week of stay in Silica Town, they said goodbye to Janine and promised to see them after a month. They returned back to Dehi City for a 12-hour ride again. Their bonds went strong and they knew that friendship will always be important than anything else. Because of this vacation Mhart finally get his smile back with nothing to worry about.

THE END