AUTHOR: INDONESIA HERO
Deaths

The look of the two pairs of eyes seemed to be about to swallow the audience. "Viewers, I'm Dian Marshanda and my colleague Rizky Bharata from TV United will accompany you in the next 1 hour. We'll start today's news with less than pleasant news from the South China Sea." Dian's eyes widened as she read every script she held, then she took a deep breath.

"Recently, the waters of the South China Sea have returned to the international spotlight after a mysterious attack returned, this time against a Chinese fishing boat. This incident has triggered tensions between ASEAN countries and China." Dian placed her script on the side and directly faced the left camera.

"This attack occurred in waters that are disputed between ASEAN countries and China. At present, there has been no official claim of responsibility or concrete evidence as to who was behind the attack. However, this incident has exacerbated the already existing tensions in the region" Dian explained, then turned her attention to a co-worker sitting next to her.

"Rizky, is there any new information about this attack?"

"Yes, Dian. Based on the latest information, the Chinese fishing boat was reported to have suffered an unexpected attack while fishing in the disputed waters. This attack has caused physical damage to the ship and its crew" Rizky replied as he checked every note on his desk.

Dian listened seriously. "I would like to stress that in situations like this, it is important to remain calm and investigate thoroughly before making any conclusions or blaming any party. But this incident demonstrates the complexity of territorial and natural resource disputes in the South China Sea." Television turned off.

The remot is now in Clara's hands without Kahar guessing. As usual, Clara came unexpectedly. The space became silent which was enveloped in the coldness of the fan.

"No need to worry too much, Bang. We're not going to jump in there. Your script doesn't need data straight from it," Clara said in a soft voice, as she spread herself beside Kahar who was still with her own world. Feeling Kahar's blank stare, Clara continued, "What are you thinking? I can see how hard it has been for you to sleep in the last week."

Kahar turned his head towards Clara, his eyes still filled with anxiety. "I know, but." she muttered, her voice trembling, "I've tried everything. Sleeping pills, I've had two dozen but nothing works."

Seeing Kahar's disappointed expression, Clara took Kahar's hand gently. "I understand, Bang. I know how hard it is for you. But we should try to calm down and forget about those things tonight. Are you going out?"

"It's been three years since that war happened, and we've been growing ever since. Our lives are getting better, Bang. And look, no more threats are coming" said Clara, grabbing Kahar's hand and holding it tight, not wanting to let go.

"You didn't see it. Since the series of attacks in the South China Sea, I have always dreamed," Kahar continued in a soft voice, his teeth trembling.

"The dream you were talking about a while ago?" ask Clara to make sure.

Kahar nodded doubtfully, "Yes, that is. I always see a beautiful, magnificent place, with all the luxuries there. Wet and comfortable place at the same time. It feels like I've lived there, or maybe I'm living there now. Everything feels too real" Kahar said in confusion.

Clara put her hand on Kahar's forehead, trying to give him comfort. He realizes that Kahar is in a stage that no one can understand, but he vows to stay by his side.

"You need time for yourself, Bang?" ask Clara attentively. Kahar replied with a light nod.

"It's okay, calm your mind. Rest yourself. I'll leave you for a while, but I promise I'll always call you. Don't ever turn off your phone, okay? I love you, Bang," said Clara with a small smile to Kahar, then stood up slowly. He bid Kahar farewell with his back steadily shrinking, leaving the room.

Kahar is now back in solitude. He walked towards the mirror hanging at the right corner of his boarding house. He stared at the necklace that was still perched on his neck, entwining himself with a curse or a gift? No one knows.

"Now for the first time, be honest with me. Who the hell are you?"