Danger zone

The arrival

My head rocked back and forth as the turbulence of the passenger plane increased. I slowly opened my eyes to a dim light shining above me. My left leg is numb and I look out the plane window to see a storm raging outside. Drops of rain crash into the plane sounding like millions of BB pellets. A loud beep fills my ears and the voice of the pilot overcomes the cabin.

"Attention, this is your captain speaking, we will be landing in Beijing in approximately 1 hour and 35 minutes". A few groans of people angered of their awakening were mainly drowned out by the rain. My eye lids became heavy and I slowly drifted back to sleep. Awaiting my arrival.

I jolt up as the plane descends preparing to land. I had regained a lot of energy through my little power naps. I stared out the window in amazement of how different this city looks. I grew up in a more rural town so I wasn't used to seeing big buildings all around. As the landing gear touched down on the runway I felt the sudden deceleration. I was relieved to be off the plane and very excited for what awaited me here.

I walk through crowds of people as I try to make my way to the luggage area. I quickly grab my things and exit the airport into the bright sun. I reach into my pocket and pull out a piece of paper with the address of the hotel I'm staying in. Very many people are walking around like its a huge event. I slither into the wave of pedestrians and make my way towards my resting place.

  By the time I reach the hotel it was almost dark. A small line of people are at the check in desk so I patiently wait my turn. When I reach the desk the man is wearing a red polo with a name tag that says Ramon. His hair is slicked back and his voice is averagely deep yet he's fairly tall. "Welcome to the Habashi Satusan resort sir. May I see your paperwork?" I hand him the papers and sign a few more. Then a bellhop comes over and takes my bags. "Jason will take your bags for you mister Marsh. Have a wonderful stay"

  I follow Jason to my room, when we reach the room he opens the door and carries my stuff inside. "Thank you Jason" I say with a smile as I hold out $10. He must not receive very many tips because that seemed to brighten his day. "Thank you very much Sir" He took a small bow and left the room. I unpacked all my clothes and personal items. I take advantage of the coffee maker and make a cup of caramel coffee. The sun sets as I sit on the balcony enjoying my drink.  I think I'm gonna like it here.