The Care Bears
The Confidence Secret
2nd Part
Chapter 19
ATTENTION: This chapter contains scenes or subjects that may be disturbing to some people. Read at your own risk.
*****
Kriskun paced anxiously across the runway, unable to stay still for a second size was the nervousness he felt. On the other hand, Trevor, Norman, Tília, Flower and Joyful just watched their friend, trying to control their laughter. That's when the Caribbean stopped and stared at them.
- What is the problem? - he asked at last - I don't see any reason for you to be laughing.
- It's that, for someone who will not leave the island, and even twenty minutes ago showed immense calm and confidence, you seem very anxious now - said the American pilot calmly - Calm down, my friend, everything will be all right. Even Trevor stopped biting his nails and calmed down.
- Actually, I do not have any more nails to gnaw at - the businessman said, showing the tips of his fingers bruised from so much nibbling - And Norman's right, you need to calm down, Kriskun. If you are just like that because Heavenly, Edward and Frank have not arrived yet, imagine how it will be when Tília gives birth to her firstborn.
- That's why we usually give sedative the Dad with drinks, so he can sleep and just wake up when the baby is born - the woman native said with a small smile - But it's no use denying it, we're all worried about our friends. I do not know how Flower has not despaired yet...
- Because I feel in my heart that Heavenly and the others are well - replied the bear kindly - You certainly feel the same for Kriskun when he is fishing at sea and everything goes as planned.
- Really, I can sense when something is wrong and when all is well with he. But still I get a little anxious and just calm down when it arrives.
Tilia had said this by smiling at her husband, who also smiled shyly before looking across the lane and seeing the parliamentary bear and the two human brothers approaching.
- Are they! Are they! - cried the native, running along with the others toward his friends, Heavenly firmly hugging Flower and Joyful at the sight of them, while Frank and Trevor greeted each other with a brotherly embrace.
- Thank God you're all right! - Trevor exclaimed cheerfully, smiling at his brother - We thought that Incomprehensible and his henchmen had managed to capture them.
- And they almost succeeded it when we got to Bearville - Frank said before hugging Flower and caressing Joyful - Fortunately we all managed to escape. How did you get here?
- It was Allan, he found us and gave us a ride - said the female bear - Mother and Architect have already gone on a trip, as well as the babies. I stayed here with Joyful waiting for Heavenly.
- You mean everyone got away? - asked the bear to his wife, realizing that a shadow passed through his face and that of his friends - What happened to them?
- Noble, True and part of the cubs, including the four babies, boarded the sailboat when we were attacked by a wizard named No Heart, who is allied of Dark Heart - Norman began to explain seriously - This guy created a magical swirl in the waters, which made the Cloud Clipper to run out of control and Egocentric, Grandiose, Mother and Idealist to fall into the water with the rest of the children, while Tricks and Caretaker jumped into the water to help them and Allan distracted that No Heart.
- To sum up Cristian, Sawyer and Jim followed the Cloud Clipper with a tug boat, while Allan, Egocentric, Grandiose, and the cubs that fell into the water disappeared - Trevor added sadly - The rest followed the trip in the JU-52, taking Brad and Ted's escort on the T-6.
- Oh Gosh! - Edward exclaimed scratching his head - On one side I am happy, and on the other... And this No Heart, who is it? Anyone known to you, Heavenly?
- No, I've never heard of him. But no wonder Dark Heart has been able to find allies all this time.
- And what do you mean by that? - Tilia asked curiously - Have you ever met this Dark Heart before?
- It's a long story and that's not the case now - Heavenly said, running away from the explanations - The only thing I can guarantee for you and Kriskun is that you will not be bothered by anyone, and the valley is safe. As for the rest, you better get out of here now.
- The way you talk, it looks like you're will remain in the island... - Norman began with a smile, before noticing the bear's expression - You're not going to do the same who Kriskun and want to stay here, is not it?
The white bear hesitated and gulp, not daring to face his friends, much less his wife, who stared at him with a frightened look.
- Heavenly... - she began, her lips trembling.
- I'm sorry dear, but I... - the voice trailed off in her throat as he faced his companion in the eyes and then his daughter, not quite sure what to say.
For a few seconds they all remained in deep and embarrassing silence, since no one would expect Heavenly to refuse to leave San Martin. But before anyone decided to question the bear about the reason for that decision, Frank decided that it was better to change the course of the conversation.
- Maybe we'd better start getting ready to leave - the businessman said slowly - Come with me, Trevor; I need your help to review the engines. You too, Norman, make sure the track is clear of obstacles, and if Kriskun and Tilia can assist you in that...
It was clear to everyone that this was just Frank's excuse to leave Heavenly, Flower and Joyful alone, so they soon turned away. Even so, the bear family continued in silence, with the female bear looking at the husband with a look of surprise and sadness, while he avoiding looking at his wife and daughter so as not to start crying with despair.
- Because? - she asked at last, gulp - Why do you want to stay? Where did this idea come from?
- I can't explain... - he murmured, his eyes filled with tears - Just trust me, my dear. I'm doing this for both of us...
- No, you're doing it for our specie! - cried Flower angrily - You always put the good of our people first and I never complained about it, but now I demand an answer! Why will not you come with us?!? Because?!?
- Flower, I... I'm sorry, but I can't! - he exclaimed through his tears - All I want is for you to follow them. May you and our daughter be saved! And if something happens to me...
- If you do not go, I will not go! - said the female bear, also beginning to cry, and hugging her husband tightly - Please, Heavenly, I will not bear to leave you behind, knowing that we'll never see each other again, not knowing why you can’t go with us! I love you! Do not let me live forever in doubt!
The white bear leaned his head on his wife's shoulder and cried as well, before he felt Joyful's arms tightening around his legs. Lowering his gaze, he saw his daughter with trembling lips and looking startled, seeming to understand what was happening.
- I love you too, my dear - he said at last, crying - I love you two more than anyone else... But believe me, if I do not stay then it will not only be the future of our species that will be at stake, but both of you, too. It is my mission, I can’t escape it.
- You mean it really is goodbye? - asked the female bear, looking at her husband and crying - Is there no other way to do this?
- Unfortunately not... Do you remember what I told you a few months ago? That I would always be with you even if I did not live?
- Heavenly...
- That will always be true, I will always be with you here - he continued quickly, placing his hand on his wife's chest - And whenever you miss me, look at the stars in the sky and I'll be there... Always say to our daughter that I loved her and wished... Promise that you will teach Joyful to be a good bear just like you, to have the same ideals that we both have and that she will never stop loving nobody. Promise me you'll never forget me, and you'll always tell about me to our daughter! Promise me you will not suffer forever with my decision! Promise!
Flower looked at the husband still hugging him and for a few seconds remained silent, until finally she answered him in his ear.
- I promise... - she murmured, kissing him passionately as she cried.
If the sky should fall into the sea
And the stars fade all around me
For the times that we have known
I will sing a hymn to love
We have lived and dreamed we two alone
In a world that's seemed our very own
With its memory ever grateful
Just for you I’ll sing my hymn to love
I remember each embrace
The smile that lights your face
And my heart begins to sing
Your arms and hands secure
Your eyes that said be sure
And my heart begins to sing
If one day we had to say goodbye
And our love would fade away and die
In my heart you will remain
I will sing a hymn to love
Those who love will live eternally
In the blue we'll roll this harmony
With my voice raised high to heaven
Just for you, I’ll sing a hymn to love
Just for you I sing a hymn to love
That was a long kiss, and perhaps the most painful kiss they had ever given in their lives. It was a farewell kiss, for after him surely there would never be another. Still, the bear did not want to think that way.
- I don't want to say goodbye - he said, walking away and looking at his wife - Just until soon, until we meet again.
- Yes, it's better this way - she agreed with a tearful smile - See you soon, my dear.
Heavenly kissed his wife and daughter one last kiss before they left, still hesitant and tearful, leaving the white bear standing there with his face covered by his hands and crying like a child.
- I'm going to love them forever... - he murmured, dropping to his knees and wishing the Great Wishing Star that the pain in his chest would subside, or else nothing would be worth it.
Flower also cried a lot, desperate. She never imagined that it would all end like that, with her husband forcing her to flee to save his life and he falling behind to do some suicidal mission. And as much as she wanted to understand the reasons that motivated her partner to make that decision, she could not. All that remained was to cry as she walked toward the airplanes, holding her little girl's hand and realizing that she was also crying without understanding why "Daddy was not there with them."
Meanwhile Frank and Trevor finished preparing the DC-3, making the last adjustments to take off. That's when the first one looked around slowly, as if he were saving in the memory that place for the last time.
- I can guess what you're thinking - Trevor interrupted his younger brother's thoughts - Will we ever go back to San Martin? Will we be able to rebuild our world after all that has happened today?
- You forgot to add "will we all be alive when it's time to get back?" - Frank said with a sad smile - It will certainly take a long time before we can get back.
- Just the time to end this war and the Axis be defeated. Then we can go back. It will not be long.
Frank just stared at the older brother and took a deep breath before shaking his head, as if he was incredulous about those words. At that moment Edward, Norman, Kriskun, and Tilia approached.
- It's all ready to take off - said the instructor pilot as he made his way to his T6 before stopping and shaking hands with the Carib couple - If anything happens, Kriskun, I want you and Tilia to know that it was a pleasure to meet you.
- Likewise, Mr. Norman - the native replied with a friendly smile, while his wife held her hand to her heart and made a reverence to the pilot.
With a small smile, the American went to his plane and was preparing to embark when he saw Flower and Joyful slowly approaching of the runway, the mother bear crying non-stop while supported by the small cub. The pilot stared at them and wondered why Heavenly had decided to abandon the family that way.
- He will not come with us? - he asked when Flower was already close - At least he gave some explanation for what he is doing?
- It's much more than just wanting to come, Norman... - Flower mumbled, wiping her face - I know Heavenly's greatest wish is to come with us, but he can't... Must stay and complete his mission...
- Ungrateful mission, just like all those who are forced to separate from their families, causing them pain and suffering without size... Can I do anything to help you?
- No... There's nothing you can do...
For a few seconds, the man and the two bears were silent, looking at each other, until Norman knelt down and hugged Flower and Joyful heavily, letting both of them weep on his shoulders.
- Thank you, that's exactly what I needed... - said the blue oil bear with a faint smile after calming down and hugging her daughter - There's really nothing better than a friendly hug to help in times of pain...
- Friends are good for these things - said the pilot with a kind smile - Why don't you two come with me? There's space on my plane and I think Joyful will have a lot more fun, just like you.
- But will not we get in the way?
- No way, come with me!
And the human quickly helped Flower climb onto the plane's wing, before delivering Joyful in his arms. Then it was his turn to climb up and help mother and daughter settle into the front seat of the T6, fastening the seatbelt and quickly explaining to the adult bear how to act in the event of an emergency. Only after making sure his passengers were safe did the American take his place and prepare to take off.
Meanwhile, Frank and Trevor also said goodbye to Kriskun and Tilia, boarding the DC-3 and heading for the cabin of the twin-engine, as Edward released the shims of the aircraft tires and also ran to say goodbye to the couple Of natives.
- I honestly do not know what will happen to us, but I hope to see you soon, my friends - said the young businessman with a wink - Send my regards to the rest of your village and tell them that I will come back as soon as possible to celebrate Annual Bananas Party.
- Entitled to coconut candy and no invading lunatic to bother us - agreed the Caribbean with a laugh - We'll tell them, Mr. Edward. Now it is better for you to embark, while we will return to our village to calm the rest. Good luck.
And with a last shake of hands, the couple took the course of their village, while Edward watched them move away. It was then that casually his gaze fixed in the figure of Heavenly, still standing in the same place on the other side of the lane, kneeling and his hands cupping his face. He looked so lonely and so desperate...
- Come on, Edward! - Frank screamed out the window of the plane, seconds before turning on the engines - We do not have all day!
The young businessman walked slowly towards the twin-engine, and with each step he took, the sad and solitary figure of Heavenly was fixed more and more on his mind. How bad it would be to die alone during a suicide mission, with no friends, no family, no one to comfort him, only for the ideal of saving the place where he lived his whole life, and that no other place in the world could replace him.
Thinking about it, Edward stopped in front of the plane's door and, on a sudden impulse, pushed the portable ladder inside and closed the passage on the outside before running to the cabin.
- Everything's ready Frank, you can follow! - he shouted, giving a positive signal.
- Are you crazy, Ed? - Shouted Frank when he saw that his friend had not boarded -
What do you think you're doing? Come on in!
- I'm following my heart, Frank! It's what we learned from them, with bears and cousins! Follow yours too!
- Edward Gresgon, this is not funny! - Trevor complained disputing space with the younger brother by the window of the cabin - I'll go down there and make this guy embark for good or bad...
- Not Trevor, he's right - Frank said calmly, looking at his older brother, who stood still with surprised air - Just like Heavenly, he also has his reasons for wanting to stay, and we can’t force him to go.
- Frank, you know he'll die if he stay here!
- We'll all die one day. Maybe he's just being braver than us in facing death in a dignified way, helping a friend...
And saying this, the younger brother pointed to the other side of the lane toward Heavenly, and Trevor looked at the white bear, his human friend and his own brother, before sitting down again in his place and remaining silent.
Slowly Frank increased the power of the engines and made the plane taxi out of the hangar, heading for the main runway. Soon after, Norman also left with his T6, but stopped when seeing Edward next to the door of the hangar.
- What are you doing there? - asked the pilot with curiosity - Should not be in DC-3?
- I've decided to reach the skies in another way - the businessman said with a calm smile, before waving to Flower and Joyful and walking away like a man who has already decided his fate.
- And so the heroes come... - Norman murmured in an excited tone, before his eyes met with those of the blue oil bear and both smiled sadly.
Meanwhile, the twin-engine was at the head of the runway, with Frank and Trevor glancing at each other again before speeding up the engines, making the plane gain speed as it ran down the runway until it finally took off. Moments later it was Norman's little plane that was also taking off, under the watchful eyes and full of tears of Heavenly, that noticed his wife and daughter inside the plane.
Lowering his head, the bear began to cry again, still on his knees, when he felt a firm hand touch his shoulder, and as he turned in surprise, he saw Edward standing there with a calm smile on his lips.
- Edward? BB-But what are you still doing here? - exclaimed the bear, standing up and staring at the human - You should have gone with them!
The human knelt to look into his furry friend's eyes.
- I could not leave you alone... - Edward said as his smiling lips trembled and his eyes filled with tears - Henry would not let you, and I will not leave you, even though I know I will surely die...
Heavenly smiled through her tears, fully understanding what that human was trying to say. On impulse, the two of them hugged and cried together like two good friends, even in that dark moment.
Meanwhile, the two planes flew over the valley to gain altitude, and passed over the village of the natives, seeing them gathered in the center of the huts.
- It all seems so quiet to them... - Trevor commented with a small smile - It's as if nothing is wrong, and they're sure no harm will ever hit them.
- And they have every reason to think that way - Frank said with a deep sigh and also looking at the village before picking up the radio - Norman, are you there?
- Yes, Frank, right behind you - said the American pilot.
- Look for the Cloud Clipper and the tugboat, and escort them for as long as you can. I think they'll need more of your help than Trevor and me.
- But is not that risky? - Flower asked with concern - You'll be unprotected if anyone shows up to attack you.
- We know what to do in this case, be calm, Flower - it was Trevor's turn to respond - I agree with Frank, surely the boats will need more of your help. I'll see you later in Miami.
- Yes, we'll see you later - Norman agreed after a short silence, turning his T6 to the other side and pulling away from the twin-engine as both aircraft passed over the Caribbean village once more.
- "One day I'll be back..." - Frank said to himself, closing his eyes and feeling the tears forming - "I swear that one day I will come back"...
On land, the natives watched the planes, and Kriskun and Tilia being among those of his people.
- Will we see them again? - the young woman asked her husband.
- I wish I had a definite answer, but the only thing I have is hope - he concluded, holding his wife's hand affectionately as they watched the planes disappear into the clouds surrounding the valley.
*****
Slowly the DC-3 moved away from San Martin after crossing the canopy of clouds that covered the island, which in the distance seemed to be slowly being taken by a devastating hurricane. But what most impressed Trevor was the fact that the weather was wonderful all around, with a calm sea that seemed to shine like silver before the rays of a tropical winter sun.
- I've never seen anything like it - Trevor said to his brother - It's as if the island was protecting itself from the Nazis.
- In a way, that's what's happening - Frank said calmly - San Martin will be sealed against our enemies until the day we return.
Trevor had noticed that there was something strange about Frank, that his younger brother was different after returning from Bearville. Something had happened, but he could not find out what it was.
- Are you going to tell me or not? - he asked at last.
- Tell what? - Frank countered, trying to disguise - There's nothing to tell.
- Of course there is! Something happened to Heavenly, Edward and you while in Bearville, otherwise you would not be acting that way, as if you were hiding some secret!
- And I'm hiding - the pilot replied, staring at his brother - Do not ask me anything, Trevor. I can't reveal what occurred to us. The only thing I can say is that Incomprehensible, or Klaus as he calls himself now, will receive what he deserves.
- And that includes Edward and Heavenly committing suicide by staying on the island, while you sit there philosophizing? After all, Frank, what's going on? What is that storm, and why are our friends stayed behind? I demand to know!
Frank rolled his eyes and took a deep breath before looking at his brother. But just as he had opened his mouth to speak, they both saw a gust of red trails followed by the sound of shots passing close to the cockpit.
- Air strike! Enemy at two o'clock! - Trevor shouted as he saw a Me-109 coming toward the twin-engine and firing again.
With a sudden movement of the joystick, Frank made the DC-3 down almost free-fall to near sea level, while making sure it was just an enemy plane attacking. Even so, it would be difficult for the brothers to be able to get rid of that pursuer, in a plane much faster and agile than theirs, besides not being armed to defend themselves.
- He's still after us! - Trevor said worriedly - Any idea how to get rid of this guy?
- Not yet, but I accept suggestions! - Frank replied, doing the airplane fly in a zigzag to try to escape the shots trying to target the wing and the right engine - Damn, he will hit the engine number one!
- "Do you need any help, gentlemen?" - asked a familiar voice on the radio.
The two brothers looked at each other in surprise at the same time that two San Marino T-6s turned upside down right next to the DC-3.
- Brad! Ted! - Frank shouted cheerfully over the radio - You arrived just in time! Get that sauerkraut out of there!
- "With pleasure, Frank" - Ted said cheerfully - "C'mon, Brad, let's give a lesson to this bold German".
- "I'm with you", agreed the second pilot, as the two planes took position to attack the enemy.
Even so, it would not be an easy battle, since the Me-109 was far superior to the two T6 of San Martin in the maneuvers, in the firepower, and in the experience of the German pilot, that with an unexpected loop and a screw flight, soon managed to get behind Brad and fired almost hitting the san martin' pilot.
- "Son of a bitch, I did not expect that" - shouted the pilot, when he saw the German in his rearview mirror - "C'mon Ted! This guy will hit!"
- "I'm still turning around. Take a dive to get rid of it".
- No, do not dive with the T6, you will not be able to beat him in the dive! - Frank interjected on the radio - Climb up and make a bolt followed by loop!
Quickly Brad performed the maneuver, letting the enemy plane approach well to then make a bolt, followed by a loop. This made the German pass by the T6, since it was much slower, and faced with Ted in his plane that was already in position to attack.
- "Fire!" - he shouted, squeezing the trigger.
The two T6 machine guns roared at Me-109, who was able to pull away, but he had certainly been hit in one of the wings, since he was in an abnormal position. But the enemy pilot was very good, and making a sharp turn in the air, stood face-to-face with Ted on a collision course.
- "Oh, you want to play" - Ted said quietly - "Let's see who gives up first".
Two kilometers. One kilometer. Eight hundred meters. Five hundred. Two hundred. No pilot gave up or fired.
- Ted, what the hell! Stop being crazy and get out of there! - Trevor yelled over the radio.
It was in a fraction of a second. Less than twenty meters into the collision when Ted opened fire and turned with all the strength he could into that training airplane. The Me-109's rear rudder tip hit the wing of its T6, but it did not do much damage. Already the shots had hit the engine of the German airplane, which began to smoke.
- "That's it, Ted!" - Brad shouted as he came up with his hunter - "Now it's me".
Brad slowly took a position on the German fighter, and pushing the joystick forward, put his T6 in the dive, firing new bursts of shots on the Me-109. Without choice, the German pilot also needed to dive to try to get rid of the pursuer, but Ted was already lower waiting for him in his sights.
- "Auf Wiedersehen (Goodbye), man" - Ted said at the same time as he and Brad fired at the Nazi plane in their sights.
Crossing the blast of gunfire, the Me-109 engine caught fire still in the dive. There was no more time to try to line up the plane. The German pilot opened the hood of the cabin and was preparing to jump when the plane exploded, turning into thousands of fragments of steel in flames.
Brad and Ted flew over the cloud of smoke for a moment, in deep silence. There was no sign of the opposing pilot.
- "I thought I'd feel proud when I knocked down my first enemy plane" - the first muttered on the radio - "But I only feel a bitter taste".
- "You're not the only one, I've got a knot in my stomach" - agreed the other pilot - "I know we did our duty, saving Frank and Trevor, but I can't be proud to have killed a person, even though I was an enemy".
- None of us are prepared to do that - Frank said with a deep sigh - Still, thank you for helping us, boys.
The two T6 soon began to form along with the DC-3, one on each side of the twin-engine, and silently took the direction of Miami. As for San Martin, it was already disappearing on the horizon, just as the dark clouds that surrounded the island...
*****
The snowstorm was getting worse, and the ice was gathering in the leaves and stones. This was a matter of real concern to Klaus, who since he had been disagreed by Dark Heart, was becoming more and more nervous and restless, hardly answering the questions that were asked of him, and only murmuring as he paced back and forth between his troops.
- Mein Hërr! Mein Hërr! - shouted Lieutenant Fitzgerald, approaching - The men are frightened and freezing. They've never seen anything like this storm. What should we do?
- As if I knew what to do! - the eagle replied sourly - That was not in my plans! I did not even think about the possibility of snow, after all this never happened here... What is the situation of the flotilla?
- They had to move further from shore. The waves are very strong and threaten to cause the ships to sink. The few barges that remain are being spared in case we need to evacuate the island.
Klaus did not like the information. Nothing was going as planned, but he did not want to admit it was his fault. Looking away from everyone, he looked across the street and was silent, thoughtful, and for the first time the thought of giving the order of withdrawal had passed through his mind.
- Lieutenant Fitzgerald, tell me one thing - he began slowly - Do you think we'd be taking too much of a risk if we momentarily evacuated the island, waiting for the weather to improve for a new landing?
- Honestly, I think it's more risky for us to stay here than to carry out a regrouping maneuver - the officer said quickly - We're not equipped to withstand a blizzard like that. Not to mention that most of the men are very scared, especially after Dark Heart and you have fought and...
- I did not ask for your opinion on this! - the General interrupted sharply, before taking a deep breath - What about the fighters? Did they find anything?
- We can't confirm, mein Hërr. They are in quietly radiophonic to the Americans not discovering our movement. The latest information we got came from the fleet's radar, reporting that one of the Me-109s was heading straight for an enemy twin-engine aircraft.
Klaus sighed again, rolling his eyes. Deep down he did not know what to do. Having lost his confidence and broken his partnership with Dark Heart, he had lost his greatest ally, and consequently all the power he had given the Reich to win the battles over the past two years. But now, without the magic of that creature to protect them, not only was that expedition doomed to complete failure, like the whole war. This made the bird feel cold in the spine, and its gray feathers shivered with fear.
- Mein Herr, what shall we do now? - asked Fitzgerald, who had perceived his superior's feelings - If we do not have an answer to give to men, they may despair, and we may suffer a riot...
- Give withdrawal order - said the eagle in a defeated tone, bowing his head as if the weight of responsibility were too great - Everyone should go to the beach in Little Spain and wait for the barges. We will return to Germany.
- What do you mean, General? - asked the human, astonished at the words - You can only be joking...
- You heard! - Klaus shouted again - Withdrawal order! This invasion is over, we are defeated! We have to save our skins!
Several soldiers heard those words and stared at their superior with frightened eyes. They did not expect the General to take such an attitude, but what disturbed them most was the expression the bird wore. It was an expression of defeat, of the certainty that nothing more could be done to reverse this situation. It took a few seconds, but finally Fitzgerald saluted.
- Ja, mein Hërr - he agreed slowly - Withdrawal order!
*****
San Martin was freezing. That was the impression Edward had as he drove swiftly down the snowy road to Heartown. The landscape around him, so colorful and alive at the beginning of the day, had given way to gray and white, accompanied by the hiss of the wind. No bird or monkey, no flower or even leaf, just an icy blanket of snow that grew every moment. The only movement came from that Studebaker Commander 1940 beige, with its two occupants.
Beside the human, Heavenly stood in deep silence, his gaze lost in thought as he saw the landscape. Or at least that's what Edward thought the white bear was doing.
- Everything is fine with you? - the young merchant finally asked his friend - I know deep down it's a silly question and nothing is fine, but it's the only thing that came to mind.
- Yes, everything is fine as far as possible - Heavenly said in a tone of calm sadness - I've been through this before, but it's the first time I have to leave my family to fulfill my mission.
- I do not want to talk bad about your decisions and your beliefs, but I find this all unfair. I can even understand that the "Stone" has a great importance for your species and that is why you must protect it, but I can’t understand why you are obliged to stay on the island for this too!
- There are many things we can't understand that are above us. Is it not so with you, humans, in relation to your God? Do not you yourself say that He has purposes that no one can understand? And what does He sometimes allow suffering to achieve greater grace?
- Yes, that's exactly it - agreed the human before giggling - To someone who practice an animist religion until you know Christianity well.
- What I practice is not a religion, let alone animistic - the bear corrected amicably - And after so many years of living with humans, I must have learned something about their customs. How about you, how did you hear about Henry Gresgon?
- My grandfather told me, it was his favorite story and mine too. But we thought it was just a legend, to liven up the family feasts of yesteryear and explain how our friendship with bears and cousins came about. My God, who would say all this is true!...
- And you should not know half of what happened between Henry and my kind - Heavenly said, then stood silent again for a moment and looked at the human with a friendly smile - Thank you for staying, Edward.
- You do not have to thank me; I'm just doing what you would do for me too. Besides, it will be my chance to act and die like a knight, just as Henry was. Can there be any greater honor for someone?
The bear smiled in response, feeling that inside Edward's heart pulsed the same energy and the same courage as his distant ancestor. And at that very difficult time for Heavenly, it was good to know that there was a human with such qualities at his side, ready to face everything provided that good and peace were protected.
*****
Noble Horse kept looking around, looking for problems. Not that he was a coward, and was not grateful that Cristian, Jim, and Sawyer were towing the Cloud Clipper, but he knew that if there were any emergencies, he could only rely on True Bear to help him, being that his wife had to check the cubs and babies all the time. If at least Tricks, Egocentric, Mother and the others were on board to help them... What would have happened to them?
The horse shook his head, getting rid of the sad thoughts, before concentrating again on controlling the rudder of the sailboat. His gaze was fixed on the compass and the ropes that bound him to Cristian's tugboat. That's when True left the cabin and walked over to her husband.
- Is everything okay with the kids? - Noble asked when he saw her - Do you need any help?
- You've got to take care of the rudder, you do not have to worry - said True with a friendly smile - The cubs are asleep. I think the wave swing made them calm down.
- I wish I could feel that way too - the horse confessed sadly - But I guess nothing will be normal again. Everything has changed. Our lives have changed since today. Even when, and if we meet our friends again, we still have to take care of all those orphaned cubs, and they're so helpless...
- That means we're their parents now. And that we will have to protect them against our enemies.
- I wanted to be a father and have a big family, but not like that - Noble confessed with a thoughtful look - Now we have 30 cubs to take care of, to be our reason for living. And I'm afraid...
True smiled before giving a comforting hug to the husband, who returned the gesture as if both were seeking the strength to proceed. For a moment they forgot everything they were living and just stood there, hugging each other, without even noticing that they were being watched by Sawyer and Cristian in the tugboat.
- This is a beautiful scene, is not it? - asked the first calmly - It gives us some peace in the midst of all the hell we live in today.
- At least it gives us the hope that, even in the worst of times, love still exists - agreed the second with a smile - I can't wait to meet with Joana and Andrews to embrace them, too.
It was when the sound of an approaching aircraft reached the ears of all, and quickly the three humans in the tugboat, and the horse and the bear on the sailboat, began to look around anxiously. Soon they saw the silhouette of an aircraft in the clouds, descending directly against the boats.
Jim, stepping out of the tugboat cabin, looked closely at the approaching plane, and then recognized the silhouette from the memories of photos seen during the Spanish Civil War.
- Oh my God! Air strike! - he shouted at the top of his lungs, running back to the cabin of boat.
At the same time, the Me-109 with the Nazi symbols flew low among the boats, firing a burst of shots at the Cloud Clipper. Noble and True, having thrown themselves on the ground to avoid being hit, quickly rose to their feet, and the bear ran back to the cubs to calm, while the horse ran toward the main mast to raise the sail again, which had fallen during the attack. Already on the tugboat, Sawyer grabbed an old shotgun and climbed to the top of the cabin while Jim threw more coal into the furnace.
Taking a quick turn in the sky, the enemy plane approached again and opened another round of shots, this time against the tugboat, and Sawyer fired two cartridges in response, without hitting the aircraft.
- But what do you think you're doing there? - cried Cristian when he saw his friend - You think you're going to be able to hit that fighter with that old gun?
- At least I'm trying to do something! - the young man replied, reloading his shotgun.
Meanwhile, the Me-109 already looked again at the Cloud Clipper. It was certain that his priority target was the boat where the cubs were. With a new gust of gunfire, several glass and boards of the sailboat were shattered, as well as part of the bulwark of the aft castle. Leaving the helm, Noble ran to hide in a barrel, while True went out the door
- Noble! - she shouted desperately - Noble! Where are you?
- I am fine! Come back inside! - the horse replied at the time when new shots were fired, forcing the bear to close the door and return to the cubs, who cried with fear and despair.
- Be calm, my dear - said the bear, trying to pass on love and confidence to them -Everything will be all right, the Great Wishing Star will protect us.
Cristian, in the tugboat's cabin, saw the aircraft again taking the course to attack the Cloud Clipper. The human knew that two or three more attacks like the one before and the sailboat would sink. With a leap, he climbed to the roof of the boat and snatched the shotgun out of Sawyer's hands.
- Give it to me; you don’t know how to shoot! - he exclaimed - And cut off the moorings that bind us to the sailboat!
- Cut what? - exclaimed the assistant photographer, his eyes widening.
- You heard! Go there and cut the ropes! Hurry up, man, do not waste time!
Sawyer took an ax and ran to the back of the tugboat, cutting off the strong ropes that bound him to the Cloud Clipper. Even hidden inside the barrel, Noble felt the sailboat stop, and as he got to his feet he saw the small motorboat pulling away as fast as possible.
- But what do they think they're doing?!? - shouted the horse, gaping, not understanding the idea of the three humans.
Quickly Cristian reloaded his shotgun with two bullets, and aimed toward the Me-109, who was once again preparing to fire at the boat where Noble, True and the cubs were. Meanwhile, the tugboat was interposed between the aircraft and the sailboat, and the young businessman looked and fired, and one of the bullets struck the right wing of the plane.
That was enough for the German pilot to shift his focus toward the boat where the three humans stood, setting fire to them. The shots did some damage on the tugboat's deck, but no one was injured, and most importantly, they prevented a new attack on the Cloud Clipper, who was pushed by the wind out of the Nazi aviator's sights.
- All cables are already loose! - shouted Sawyer, running to Cristian - Can I do anything else?
- Yes, you can help us hit that sauerkraut son of a bitch! - Jim said, bringing two more rifles into his hands and handing one to his assistant - Try to hit the engine of that plane, it's our only chance!
And the three of them pointed their weapons toward the Me-109, who was already turning and was preparing to attack the tugboat once more. At that moment, silently, each of them looked at each other as if they were saying goodbye to their friends, and for a few seconds they could still remember the good moments lived with their families and friends in San Martin, especially the bears and cousins.
- Ready? - asked Cristian, raising his gun and aiming toward the plane, being imitated by Jim and Sawyer - Fire!
From then on, everything went in slow motion. At least that was the impression Noble had had, as he watched the scene and after leaving the barrel to control the rudder of the sailboat. The aircraft was fast approaching the tugboat, the three humans starting firing with those old weapons, the enemy pilot refusing the attack and firing on the tugboat, the shots hitting the water and finally the boat where the friends were, and finally the fire, a big explosion that destroyed the tugboat when the boiler has been reached.
Even being a few hundred yards away from the Cloud Clipper, the impact of the explosion was so violent that it threw the horse to the ground, while several glass objects exploded on the sailboat, including one of the cubicle windows where the cubs were. Desperate, True Bear ran back to the deck fearing the worst, but when he saw the smoke rising into the sky, he realized that it was the tugboat, not the sailboat, that had exploded into a thousand pieces.
- Oh heavens! - cried the bear, trembling with fear.
The couple avidly sought out something to indicate that their friends had survived. But there was no sign of life, only wreckage floating in the distance.
- They can't have died... - True whispered with tears in his eyes - How many more will die?
- I think we'll be next! - exclaimed Noble terrified, pointing toward the horizon.
Actually the enemy aircraft had turned around and now it was coming towards the sailboat, ready to attack. Noble and True embraced, trembling with fear and wishing eagerly for a miracle. Suddenly, a second plane appeared through the clouds and positioned itself behind the German Me-109. It was Norman!
- "You!" - exclaimed the American pilot on the radio - "Say good night!"
And he opened fire on the German pilot, who was caught totally by surprise. Turning the plane to the right, the enemy pilot tried to get rid of Norman and put the T6 of the American in your sights, but this one was more agile and still had the advantage of the height, so it continued to shoot continuously. Suddenly the Me-109's engine caught fire, and its pilot jumped just moments before the aircraft exploded. Norman watched as his adversary opened the parachute and landed in the sea minutes later.
In the Cloud Clipper, Noble and True jumped happily on deck because they had been saved by their friend. But soon the female bear ran into the cabin where the cubs were, so they could calm them down.
- We're saved! We're saved! - she cried as she opened the door.
The cubs, despite their young age and still learning to speak, were able to understand very well what the bear's joy meant, and jumped to embrace it. Noble also ran up to them, and received some of the hugs. As they feasted, True went to the radio.
- Thank you, Norman! - she shouted happily - You took us out of a difficult time.
- "I did my duty, you do not have to thank me - the pilot replied cheerfully - "I'll escort you as long as possible. Flower and Joyful are here too".
- Good news. And how are they?
- "We're fine, thank you" - the gray bear's voice came over the radio, as did the joyful shrieks of her cub - "We'll be together again soon, and I'll help her take care of these children".
True Bear smiled at that, but then his thoughts drifted to the enemy pilot she had seen falling with the parachute in the water. As the wind was in the opposite direction, the Cloud Clipper certainly could not reach him, and if no one helped him he would die in a short time. Soon the bear made a decision and adjusted the frequency of the radio.
- Achtung deutsche Flotte auf der Insel San Martin stationiert. Hier ist das Boot Cloud Clipper. Komm und hol Ihr Pilot, der ins Meer stürzte in 23º50'15.30" N und 69º22'23.10" O. Periodenende (Attention, German flotilla parked on the island of San Martin. Here is the Cloud Clipper boat. Come and get your pilot who crashed into the sea at 23º50'15.30"N and 69º22'23.10"W. Final exchange).
Taking a deep breath, True readjusted the radio set to the frequency of contact with Norman when she looked up and saw Noble standing on the stairs with a broad smile on his lips.
- I always found it very lovely when you speak German - the horse confessed lovely - Even more so when it may help save one life.
- I could not leave that man there to die and do nothing to try to help him - said the bear with a wistful smile - It's a shame that Cristian, Jim, and Sawyer will not have the same chance...
- "True! True! Are you still there?" - exclaimed Norman over the radio - "There's someone alive among the wreck of the tugboat!".
The pair looked at each other in amazement before returning to the deck and maneuvering the sailboat toward the center of the wreckage. It took them about twenty minutes, but soon they caught sight of someone caught floating on a piece of wood, moaning in pain. As carefully as possible, Noble threw himself into the sea and swam to the wounded man, realizing that it was Cristian.
It was not easy to put the human inside Cloud Clipper, since he was so burned and debilitated that any more abrupt movement was answered by a scream of pain. But finally the horse and the bear had been able to embark his friend, who lay on the deck breathing heavily, his face raw and the rest of his body deformed by the burns.
- Quick Noble, get the first aid kit! True shouted, starting to remove the remains of the human's shirt. "We have to clean those wounds before they infect."
- No! No... Water... - murmured Cristian, shaking his bloody arm - Water!... For God's sake, water...
The horse picked up a canteen of water and placed it on his friend's bruised lips, who drank a little and took a deep breath, taking from his trouser pocket a gold burned watch.
- Give it to Andrews... - he begged, placing the object in the bear's hand - Tell him I love him... And I do not regret having died to help you... Please.
- We'll deliver - True agreed, dabbing a bit of alcohol into a cotton cloth and beginning to wipe his friend's wounds - Now be quiet so I can take care of your burns.
Cristian smiled painfully as his glittering eyes stared at True and Noble, and then slowly that glow faded along with his smile as he gave a faint sigh. The last.
- Cristian - the female bear called out, feeling her eyes fill with tears - No, please, do not go!!!
She began to cry when she realized that the human had died, and Noble quickly embraced her and began to mourn the loss of his friend. They did not even remember the clock that the deceased had given them, which was inside the first aid box.
From above, Norman, Flower, and Joyful watched the movement on the sailboat, and the pilot quickly understood what was happening and gave a loud cry of anger that frightened not only the cub, but the gray bear as well.
- Bastard! Motherfucker! - he yelled angrily, gritting his teeth - I'm going to kill that damn German!
- No, Norman, no! - cried Flower, realizing that the human turned the plane toward the inflatable boat that the downed pilot had fired - To do something like that will not bring Cristian back! He certainly would not approve of such an act. I do not approve!
The pilot lowered his head, ashamed, and cast a glance at the small yellow boat lost in the sea.
- You're right - he agreed after a short silence - I can't do that. That guy will have a lot to face to survive. Let's go.
And turning his plane again, the American and his two passengers went on to escort the Cloud Clipper, while the feeling of death and uncertainty took hold of everyone, even the cubs who did not even understand what had happened.
*****
The situation of the invading troops was almost desperate. After the recall order, everyone had positioned themselves in Little Spain with the few equipment that was still working in that freezing cold. Fear and uncertainty swept over everyone, and Colonel Meyer made sure there was no riot among his commanded as he awaited the arrival of General Klaus.
It was not long before he arrived, accompanied by Lieutenant Fitzgerald and two trucks transporting his soldiers. No sooner had the vehicles stopped and were surrounded by captains and majors in a climate of growing hostility and fear, wondering what they would do. It was such a runaway situation that the eagle could barely get out of the truck, and it was with difficulty that she managed to cross the ranks of desperate men clamoring for a solution, and walk to where Meyer was.
- You've finally arrived! - exclaimed the colonel upon seeing the bird - This is getting crazy, mein Hërr!
- After all, what's going on? - Klaus asked with a mixture of anger and concern - I almost got lynched by the men! Where are the barges?
- They can't get close, just like the bigger boats. A light cruiser also sank as he tried to approach the port is disturbing the passage of the other ships!
- Send them to the artificial harbor!
- The artificial harbor was destroyed by the waves about half an hour ago, and it took two speedboats to the bottom of the sea. Mein Hërr, I do not want to appear fearful or pessimistic, but we are in trouble.
At that moment one of the radio operator soldiers approached with a salute and handed a note to Klaus, who cried out in anger as he ripped that paper into a thousand pieces.
- The cruiser Herman abandoned the fleet! - he shouted angrily - What the hell, what else is going to happen now?!?
- A rebellion among our troops, that is what will happen if we do not do something fast - said Lieutenant Fitzgerald, approaching along with two officers, Captain Gustav and Major Schultz - The men are frightened, they're saying we've been cursed by Dark Heart, and that it is all the your fault.
- We're doing what we can to control the situation, but it's getting harder - the captain said with a frightened look - Major Schultz here suggested that we could return to the center of the island, at least as long as the storm's strength did not subside.
- According to some exploring soldiers, the central valley has not frozen, and may serve as a shelter - the Major explained by licking his lips - In addition, boats will be able to enter the channel and rescue the men, if that is the case.
Klaus was silent for a moment, scratching his beak as he pondered the idea. At last he gave a deep sigh and stared at his subordinates.
- Prepare the men, we'll go to the central valley of the island through the Heartown's road - he said, addressing one of the few remaining armored personnel carriers and completing for himself - And may the heavens help us reach that place sooner to freeze...
Although most of the soldiers did not like the idea of going back to the frozen island again, the promise that the rescue would be easier in the valley was enough to get them on the trucks, Kübelwagens and armor available, and the General was on one of these and ahead of all to set the example of bravery, with Meyer and Fitzgerald as companions. But as much as the eagle tried to show calmness and security, the worried glow of his gaze and the trembling feather hands betrayed his emotions. It was clear to him that they were in a mess and that his life, especially, was by a thread, for either he would die frozen or end up dead by his disgruntled soldiers.
*****
Edward parked his car in front of the parliament in Heartown and was helping Heavenly removing a heavy box from the trunk of the vehicle. Taking each one in a handle of the crate, they ran into the building.
- Are you sure this is the best hiding place for your things? - asked the human while the two walked - They seem too valuable to be in the safe of the parliament...
- And who said we'll keep them in the safe? - replied the bear white with a little smile -I already have a special place prepared, where no one will find this box even if they tear down the walls of the whole building.
- You mean you already knew what was going to happen today and you did nothing to prevent this catastrophe?
- You're not being fair. Just because I prepared a hiding place in advance does not mean I knew what would happen. You can be sure, Edward, that if I knew what was going to happen today, I would do everything in my power to avoid it.
- After everything I've learned about you in those last two hours, I honestly do not even know what to think for sure. After all, Heavenly, why do not we drop this box right here and get out?
- Because that's my mission, and you know it - the bear said dryly - I have to stay here to keep it, but you're free to go if you want.
The human open a discreet smile and shook his head.
- I said I will not leave you alone - Edward said more calmly - If you have to stay to complete your mission, you can count on me. If it is to get out of here alive, we will leave. If it's to die fighting, we'll die.
Heavenly just smiled in response as the two continued to run toward the offices. But while the two engaged in this task, they did not hear the sound of vehicles approaching the main street of Heartown, and soon a column of Nazi vehicles faced the snow.
In front of the trucks and armored vehicles followed Klaus, Meyer and Fitzgerald aboard a Kübelwagen, practically opening the way through the deserted, ice-covered streets. That long line of gray vehicles was the only thing moving in the white landscape, trying to reach the central valley as quickly as possible. However, as they passed the parliament, the eagle signaled for the driver of the car to stop.
- Stop, stop! - Klaus asked quickly, jumping from the Kübelwagen - That Studebaker was not there before, when we left Heartown. There's someone hiding in parliament!
- And what does it matter now? - Meyer asked, also getting out of the vehicle and clutching his coat to protect himself from the cold - It must be some native trying to survive the cold, just like us. Besides, I can’t even imagine how you can guess that someone is hiding there.
- There's little ice on top of the car, which shows he parked recently. Call four soldiers and come with me, Colonel Meyer. We'll investigate. Lieutenant Fitzgerald, take the other men into the valley, just follow the road.
Both Meyer and the selected soldiers did not like to stay there, just as Fitzgerald also seemed a little concerned about the General's unreasonable decision. No one, however, had the courage to openly contradict him, and soon the vehicles set off again as the bird, the colonel, and the four soldiers entered the parliament with their weapons in their hands. Silently the six walked down the main aisle, taking one step at a time and trying to hear any suspicious noise.
- Good thing it's hotter here - Meyer murmured, wiping the snow off his coat and hat - Maybe we could go get the kitchen and...
- Halt den Mund! Wir sind nicht hier zu essen! (Shut up! We're not here to eat!) - Klaus interrupted sharply, annoyed at his subordinate.
At that moment they heard the sound of hurried footsteps approaching down the corridor. Quickly the eagle signaled to his companions to hide behind a door, while he himself hid behind a column, with the weapon cocked, waiting until the moment when two shadows appeared.
- Hands up! - shouted the bird, stepping out of its hiding place and getting face to face with Heavenly and Edward.
The white bear and the young businessman stopped surprised at the ambush, finding themselves surrounded by the Nazi soldiers. But it was surely Klaus who was more surprised, since his eyes were wide and there was an admired smile on his beak.
- Oh, look who I found! - exclaimed the eagle in a tone of contentment - My friends, Heavenly and Edward, still alive. I had no idea that I would still have the pleasure of killing them.
Edward swallowed before looking at Heavenly, who just gave him a wink and a reassuring smile.
- Well, for you to kill us, you'll have to find us first! - Heavenly shouted provocatively, the moment he and the human parted and ran into opposing corridors, shifting away from the shots fired by their enemies.
- Damn it! - Klaus shouted, stamping his foot on the floor in anger - You four, get Edward! And you come with me, Meyer. If Heavenly wants to play hunting and hunter, then we will hunt it!
While the general and the colonel chased the bear toward the library of parliament, the four soldiers rushed after the human who quickly took refuge in the kitchen. One stood at the door, and the other three entered the room, beginning to turn the counters and food pantry. It was when they noticed the half-open doorway of a side room from which came a constant clapping of hands, and when they entered, they saw Edward beside several pipes and with a malicious smile on his lips.
That calm attitude of the young businessman disconcerted his pursuers, since they did not expect to see him there laughing and drawing them into a room without exits.
- Why are you laughing? - asked one of the soldiers with a strong German accent, pointing his rifle toward the enemy - Have not you realized that you will die?
- Of course I did - Edward said solemnly - But you'll die if you shoot me, too.
- That's what we'll see - said the soldier, cocking his weapon.
At that moment, one of his companions felt a strong smell of gas, and noticed the open valves of several plugs just behind the condemned man. He quickly understood what Edward was up to.
- Nicht schießen! (Do not shoot!) - he shouted trying to warn his companion, but it was too late.
Heavenly had taken refuge among the bookshelves full of books from the parliamentary library, just looking through the cracks in the shelves where Klaus and Meyer were, when suddenly he felt the earth shaking beneath his feet, and a second later the sound of a loud explosion came in his ears. Looking out the window, the white bear saw the kitchen explode in the air at the same time its heart stopped for a second.
- Edward... - he murmured as he realized that his friend was no longer in the living world.
But before he could do anything, Heavenly heard the sound of a gunshot and a pounding pain in his right leg, knocking him to the ground.
- Sterben, miserable! (Die, miserable!) - Meyer screamed, firing again toward the white bear.
- No! - he said, rolling to the floor to avoid the shots and hiding behind a bookcase, taking a book in his hands.
As the colonel approached, the President of Parliament simply tossed the book in the direction of his head as he punched Meyer's legs, causing him to drop his weapon with a cry of pain. But the human quickly pulled out a penknife and jumped on top of his opponent, trying to stab him in the face.
This was an uneven fight, after all, the bear was only one meter tall, and the German was almost two meters, not counting physical strength, military training and age difference. Even so, Heavenly fought valiantly to make his opponent loosen his dagger.
Their screams drew Klaus's attention as he came running toward the two fighters and fired at the bear, hitting him in the arm. Heavenly howled in pain, but even with the blood gushing from the wound, did not give up the fight and managed to disarm Meyer. With one last effort, he kicked the human's face, managed to drag himself a few feet and reach the rifle that the German had left moments before. And without thinking twice, the white bear pointed the gun toward his opponent and squeezed the trigger, giving a savage cry as he did so. Meyer had time just to open his eyes and certainly process his last thought. Soon after, he fell dead on the floor, struck in the chest.
Heavenly looked at the colonel's body and then to the gun in his own hands, before throwing it away. Frightened tears rose in her eyes. He could not believe that had killed a person, something he had never done before and vehemently repulsed.
Klaus also watched the scene open-mouthed, for he had never thought Heavenly would have the ability to kill anyone. But quickly the eagle recovered and cocked its rifle, pointing toward its greatest enemy, who just stood there, with trembling lips and a look almost helpless.
- Oh, Great Wishing Star, do not leave me now! - the bear begged, fearing and ashamed of his act.
Suddenly, a yellow light began to fully envelop Heavenly, and even before Klaus blinked, the bear disappeared along with that light, leaving the bird alone with Meyer's body.
It took some time for the General to realize what had happened. Slowly he lowered the weapon with a stupefied look, and walked to the spot where the bear was before disappearing. There was the blood, the marks of Heavenly's hands, but no indication of what had happened to him. Klaus began to tremble with fear as he looked around, plagued by what had just happened.
- That's not possible... It's not possible... - he muttered as he walked toward the exit, where his Kübelwagen was waiting for him. But instead of getting into the vehicle, he dropped to his knees and looked around at the falling snow, and feeling the invisible presence of Heavenly and the others he had killed that day.
With a maddening scream, Klaus began to run as fast as his strong legs could on that frozen ground, and spreading his wings, he leapt to the skies in a graceful flight that accompanied the wind. But his biggest concern now was not the fact that Fitzgerald and his men had been caught in the middle of the road by an avalanche, or that the ships in the flotilla faced ever stronger waves and began to sink like paper boats.
The only concern in the bird's head was to flee San Martin as quickly as possible. To flee forever from that cursed place, that he had cursed and where the ghost of Heavenly would always be to pursue him. He did not want to be trapped there to die either, he fled to his Germany, though he was sure Hitler would never forgive him for that day.
Deep down, he knew that everything was lost, and it was his fault...
*****
Frank stared at the horizon, looking pensive and not saying a word for more than half an hour. This was already bothering Trevor, who repeatedly tried to pick up a subject with his brother without a response.
- After all, what's going on? - said the older brother in an angry tone - Since we left San Martin, you are like that, quiet and introspective. Even Brad and Ted have realized that something is wrong!
- I'm just thinking about our friends - Frank said with a small smile - We can't reach them on the radio and we don't know where they are. And I'm also thinking of the Nazis who invaded the island, if any of them will survive and return to their homes.
- You're referring to that crazy storm again, are not you?
- Yes I am. Those troops were not prepared for the cold, much less Klaus, as he calls himself. Surely that storm will kill them cold if they do not leave soon.
- I suppose it's pointless for me to ask again what happened to you, Heavenly and Edward while you were in Bearville, and what's the connection with the storm - Trevor pondered in a naughty tone - I can at least ask if you'll tell me one day what happened?
- Maybe I'll tell, but it's not up to me - said the younger brother with a wink - I made a promise, Trevor. And I have to keep it, if one day we want to return home.
That response visibly did not please Trevor, who gave a deep, unsatisfied sigh. For a moment the two brothers were silent, before they heard a voice on the radio.
- "ASM5509 calling ASM2324. ASM5509 by calling ASM2324. This is Norman. Frank, are you listening?".
The two brothers stared wide-eyed at the message. Frank and Trevor quickly picked up their transmitters.
- ASM2324 calling ASM5509. Yes, we are listening! - cried the older brother excitedly - Norman! Thank God you're alive!
"Well, I say the same. After the attack in Cloud Clipper, I was afraid there would be no one else. "
- How is it?!? Cloud Clipper been attacked?!? - Frank shouted with concern.
- "It's okay with them, we arrived on time" - Norman said reassuringly - "True Bear said the kids can't wait to get to the US and meet again Uncle Frank and Uncle Trevor".
- You're a bad liar, the cubs do not even know how to speak right yet - Trevor said with a laugh - And Flower and Joyful, are they there with you?
- "Where else could we be?" - the female bear replied in a kind tone - "Soon we'll see each other in Miami, and we'll have lots of stories to tell".
- And no one is better than you for that task, since you're San Martin's best storyteller - Frank joked amiably - What about Cristian, Jim, and Sawyer, any sign of them?
A long silence prevailed on the radio, which was not a good sign.
"Hey! Norman, what's going on?" - Brad asked worriedly, after hearing the conversation without interruption - "What happened to our friends?".
- "We did not make it in time to help the three" - told the American pilot - "When we saw the Cloud Clipper and the tugboat, the enemy plane was already attacking. It looks like Cristian, Jim, and Sawyer made the decision to use the tugboat to catch the attention of the Me-109 and allow the ship from the bears to escape".
- Oh, my God - Frank muttered, gulping - What are we going to tell Joana and Andrews?
- "Honestly, I do not know, but you have to be careful about... Arghh! He found us!..." - a loud cry of fear interrupted the transmission.
- Norman! Norman! What's it? - Trevor exclaimed over the radio - ASM2324 calling ASM5509! Norman, answer!
But there was no response, no matter how much Frank, Trevor, Brad, and Ted tried to contact Norman or the Cloud Clipper.
*****
The wind was calm and the waves low. On the left side, two small uninhabited islets were the only signs of land around. The inflated sail was fast enough for the boat to advance, while Noble tended the rudder. It was nearly four o'clock in the afternoon, and there were more than six hours at sea.
From time to time True left the children to go help the husband on the deck. She could not help but laugh when she saw the horse with a curious seagull on its head, but soon she herself had a gull in her hair as she peered through the telescope for signs of other ships, aircraft, or trouble. Meanwhile, Norman described great circles in the heavens with his T6, escorting the Cloud Clipper.
After looking around, True signaled to Noble that he was going down again to look after the children, and the horse agreed. Soon after the plane passed once more, only now higher. Certainly the old pilot was looking for some radio signal.
- We're running out of fuel - Norman told Flower as he climbed six thousand feet.
- How long do we still have? - asked the gray bear, who had her daughter wrapped in her lap, asleep.
- Enough to reach the coast safely. I only did not want to leave Noble and True unprotected.
- I think we're far enough out of the island for bad things to happen. Not to mention that it would not do us any good to stay here and run out of fuel. They will know understand.
Norman looked curiously at Flower, who exhibited an unusual calm and security, especially after everything that had happened.
- Who sees you like that, talking so calmly, you can’t imagine what happened a few hours ago - said the pilot with some reserve - Do you... Do you believe that Heavenly survived, and will you two ever meet again?
- Being absolutely honest, I do not think he survived - said the bear with a deep sigh, before turning to the human with a hopeful smile - But I believe we will one day meet again... It is my hope.
- One day we'll all meet again - Norman agreed, making an obvious effort not to start crying - Well, I'm going to climb three thousand feet more, maybe that way we can get in touch on the radio with Frank or whatever. Are you ready to fly higher, Flower?
- Of course, come on! - she retorted excitedly.
- Then hold on, and if you need to, use the oxygen mask - the human concluded, starting to climb with the plane toward the clouds.
Noble saw the moment the plane went up. But he could not afford to watch the flying machines of humans. Luckily things were still calm for the Cloud Clipper. True went down to the children's stateroom, and found them all asleep. As a zealous mother, she took a gas lantern and, with the light, she looked cub by cub. Proud Cat, who slept in the same cradle as Loyal Dog, even woke up with the light, but seeing True Bear there she smiled and went back to bed. The others were sleeping soundly, including the four babies.
I keep recalling
How life used to be
Now and then I wonder:
Have we changed?
With your hand in mine,
All the moments shine
Like the pictures in a storybook,
We will turn the pages,
Sharing pieces of the memories
I care for you now,
As I did then
At our beginning
At our beginning…
Suddenly the noise of thunder and strong winds reached the ears of the female bear. Rushing to the deck, she donned her raincoat and ran toward Noble to help him get dressed as well, while the horse struggled to keep the rudder firm.
- He found us! - he exclaimed, clutching his cloak and trying to help his wife hold the wheel.
It was when a strong wave made the rudder finally disengage, and the horse was thrown to the ground while the bear tried to prevent the boat from turned wildly. Lightning struck the top of the mast, causing the sail to fall as the mast fell toward the stern castle, almost touching True Bear who only had time to leap to the side. Noble, in turn, having managed to hold himself so as not to be dragged out of the boat by the waves, approaching the bear, and both stared in shock at each other.
It certainly was not an ordinary storm. In a minute the sky closed and the sea stirred. It was only then that the couple saw who was provoking it all. A huge sea-serpent, red-eyed and malevolent, came out of the sea before them. It was Dark Heart.
- It's him! - Noble shouted with a terrified look - What will we do now?
Dark Heart looked at the boat and laughed wickedly, before opening his mouth and moving toward the Cloud Clipper to devour the boat.
- Quick, let's use the mast! - True suggested, she and her husband grabbed the piece of wood and, at the last moment, managed to squeeze it into the mouth of the evil being, preventing him from closing his jaw.
But Dark Heart was not about to give up, and his screams of hatred showed that. The couple knew they were in trouble, so the two of them hugged each other in fear. It was when she looked toward the bow of the boat and saw, horrified, a column of water approaching them.
- What is it?!? - she shouted in despair - We're going straight to him!
- We got caught! - said the husband, feeling that it was the end, for surely no one could help them, not even Norman in his plane.
Despite being distracted, talking to Frank on the radio, Norman soon realized that this was no ordinary storm, as the sky closed in a matter of seconds. Flower and Joyful also realized this, and the three just looked at each other to understand what had happened and who caused it.
- Arghh! He found us! - shouted the pilot, throwing the transmitter on the ground.
- We need to save our friends! - cried Flower desperately - Quick Norman; do something!
Quickly the human plunged with the plane to attack Dark Heart, but a real hurricane made the T6 uncontrolled and swirl through the air like a dry autumn leaf. With all the strength, experience, and cold-bloodedness he had, Norman was able to regain control of his aircraft almost at the last moment as he was about to hit the surface of the sea.
- We lost the radio antenna! - he said as he checked the damage and resumed the maneuver to approach the enemy, who had decided to throw his snake body over the Cloud Clipper - God, we will not have time to act!
It was when the water column in front of the sailboat began to glow and took on the colors of the rainbow, and its brilliance was so strong that it overshadowed Dark Heart. Also the boat began to glow intensely, while magically it began to levitate above the waters entering a colored tunnel towards the skies, disappearing soon after.
Deeply angry, the evil being spat the mast away and just watched the boat with Noble, True and the cubs disappear.
- Run! Run while you can! - he said in a squeaky voice, his red eyes blazing - No matter where they hide, I'll find them. You will not be able to escape! My name is Dark Heart!!!
And turning into a whirlwind, he too quickly disappeared, and everything returned to normal, with the exception of the T6 with Norman, Flower and Joyful, who flew in circles around that area.
It took a few minutes for the human, the mother bear, and the baby bear to react to what had just happened, and during that time they were silent, gaping, until Flower slowly looked at her friend.
- What will we do now, Norman? - she asked, her voice shaken with pain - Why do we have to go through all this? Will it... Only my daughter and I remained?
- Do not think that way, Flower - said the pilot, licking his dry lips - Just as you believe that one day you will find Heavenly again, let's think our friends are well and managed to escape.
- But you saw them when they disappeared! How could they have escaped?
- I don't know, I just have faith that somebody helped them somehow get out of this mess - Norman mused as he recalled the last words spoken by Dark Heart - I think the disappearance of the boat was not the work of that monster, but someone who wanted to protect our friends.
- Well... You're right. But where will they be now?
- That's something I do not know. The only thing I know is that we need to reach the mainland soon and find a safe place for you and your baby, where neither Klaus and his Nazis nor this Dark Heart can find them.
- You mean we're not going to Miami? What are you thinking, anyway?
- Simply that if everyone is in the same place, it will be easy for that red monster or that treacherous eagle to find us and finish what they started. But if you and Joyful are in another location, in Guyana, for example, then...
- Guyana? - exclaimed the gray bear with a surprised air - But there is nothing there! Only mosquitoes and penal colonies!
- And that's why it's the last place in the world they'll look for us. A poor country, isolated and with abounding forests to hide.
Flower was silent for a moment, then smiled lightly and nodded.
- You're right, there I will have the peace necessary to take care of Joyful - she said, putting her hand on her daughter's head - There I can teach her everything Heavenly wanted most, which was love and care for her friends.
- You can count on me, I'll always be with you two - the human concluded with a broad smile, before taking the plane westward and gradually disappearing into the vastness of the horizon and the Atlantic Ocean.","pools_count":1,"title":"The Care Bears - The Confidence Secret - Chapter 19","deleted":"f","public":"t","mimetype":"image/jpeg","pagecount":"1","rating_id":"2","rating_name":"Adult","ratings":[{"content_tag_id":"5","name":"Strong Violence","description":"Strong violence, blood, serious injury or death","rating_id":"2"}],"submission_type_id":"12","type_name":"Writing - Document","guest_block":"t","friends_only":"f","comments_count":"0","views":"7","sales_description":null,"forsale":"f","digitalsales":"f","printsales":"f","digital_price":""}
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