Cholera Dream | High School

Life was not easy in the mid-1870s. We were 200 miles from anywhere, our wagon had broken down, and soon sow would settle in. October in the Rockies is rough. My journal remains unwritten in for the day Oct. 30, for with fixing wheels and the like, I ne'er had the time. Janey, my little sister, was heartbroken at the thought of Hallowe'en without begging. She was a'cryin' when Mom suggested I take her to the valley, where the cacti grow to trick-or-treat from the cactus, for prickly-pears. She loved it. She ran ahead to the wagon. I stayed and took my own good time. I thought about the other families who started late, who might not make it. Dr. Jennings would lead the next train, with whom we would take up with. As I busied myself with serene thoughts I was completely unprepared for the blinding light which shown from--although I could be mistaken--the sky.

I shielded my eyes, and, as I did so, I felt myself moving at a great vilocity. The light disappeared as quickly as it had appeared. My eyes opened, but it was not my earth to which I opened them. The skywas vivid orange, as was the sand. Canals lined the ways. I followed one until I had found a dwelling. It was a small, mud-brick abode, and quiet. I ate and drank my fill form the packed shelves, and journeyed on.

Soon, night time came, the all-too small sun sang, giving way to double moons. They in turn gave way to dark clouds. A faint chanting could be heard, and as I walked it grew louder until--many creatures, taller and lankeier than men, sprang at me. Because of the planet's low gravity I sprang away but found others behind me. I was siezed and tied to an altar. A creature of some importance sprang to me, clutching a gleaming white ceremonial sword, aimed at my throat--

Mr. Renson rode to meet the wagon train. Doc Jennings was leading it. "Doc, help me! Ma boy Ma'chael's seeick. He needs help fast, it's cholera!"

The people stared wide-eyed at Mr. Renson. Doc turned to his second-in-command. "David, lead the train. We'll see what can be done before ye gets here."

When they arrived, Mrs. Renson was trying to hold down Michael. The doctor rushed over to the bedside. Michael was thrashing...

My bonds, I found, slipped right off my hands. The sword was coming towards me. I ducked, tripped, fell to the ground, and writhed, moved, twisted to escape the blow of the mighty weapon. But once I was too late, the sword hit me and passed through me. It was then that I realized that I was here in spirit only.

I rose to my feet and saw the creatures turn and stare in terror. The dancing stopped and also the chanting. I was pushed forward towards Nobrock--the Martian god of Death. A black shadow covered the area, a misfigured beast rose ans tared down onto this planet, and devoured it. I had met death.

The doctor walked out of the wagon, wiping his hands nervously. He faced the Rensons. "He was a good boy. I AM sorry."