I stand across from the other campers, over the past few days, I have gotten to know a few of them. Seven of us, including myself, hide beneath the overhanging rock, with rain splattering all around as a constant reminder of what awaits us. I can see the siblings, Ryan and Sophie, talking to each other like two peas in a pod, inseparable. Ryan is the nerdy type, always talking about fantasy games. He and his supposed buddies are even playing some. He is also pretty good with electronics, like a hacker. Sophie is somewhat similar, but more social and talkative. Her goal seems to be becoming an author; books are everything to her. I have learned that they lost their parents a few years ago in a car accident. Another member of the group, Maya, is just sitting there, gazing into the forest, probably contemplating what to paint. She is a quiet and shy person who seems to be interested in creative art, particularly painting and photography. That leaves the last members of the group, Lily, Zach, and Kai. The three of them are huddled closely, chattering away about their hobbies and whatnot. Lily is social but quiet, always listening no matter the inconvenience. Zach loves sports and is always watching sports on television, be it football, golf, or anything else. Kai seems more on the nerdy side, enjoying fantasy games but not to the extent that Ryan does. His true talent lies in playing instruments; he is pretty good and has played at the school festival.

As the rain starts to slow down, I move towards the others and say, "Guys, I think we should get ready to move camp." They look towards me before responding, "Yeah, I agree."

"Okay." Everyone begins grabbing their bags and stuffing them with the remaining items around us. Soon, we are ready, and as the rain has just stopped, we begin our hike. Complaints can be heard soon after. "This trip has just gotten worse. Mud is everywhere, my shoes are dirty, and my socks are wet. What more can go wrong?" Maya mutters. Zach responds, "Be happy for what you have, not what you are missing." Maya snorts in reply. The only sound is the squelching of boots getting stuck in the mud and then pulled out. Hours pass with little to no conversation. The trees that surround us seem to be more of a water faucet, dripping water on us instead of offering shelter. Everyone is hungry, and talking doesn't help, but then we spot a clearing. "Finally, food and a place to sleep," Maya says, and the whole group agrees. Food and sleep sound perfect. We soon get to work. Everyone sets up their tents first before gathering wood to start a fire. When the fire is finally blazing, everyone cheers. Food and warmth are ready, and everyone is happy. This miserable trip might actually turn out to be good, I think to myself.

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Darkness spreads around the camp, but the fire continues to glow, its flames dancing across the sky. We make some food, and Ryan comments, "This stuff is bad, but I'm so hungry that it tastes good." Soon, murmurs and sounds of agreement follow. I decide it's time for sleep. I move the tent door aside, change into some dry clothes, and grab my pillow. Sleep quickly overtakes me.

…

I awaken to sounds of surprise and wonder. I am surprised, so I peek my head outside of the tent, and my jaw drops. In the sky, there is a glowing streak. It's probably a comet, although I'm not entirely sure. It looks pretty cool, with a neon blue color and leaving sparkles behind. Huh, why can't I feel my arms or legs? What?...

My vision betrays me, and swiftly I succumb to darkness.