It all Began and Ended with a Tree... Part 10

Hold your horses! Have you read the first Chapter? No? Well here's the link: Chapter 1

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It all Began and Ended with a Tree
Chapter 10

I’m in the water and it embraces me. I’m drifting astray in the deep blue, as I do, I look up, and the bars of light that filter through the water break upon my skin. I blow a few bubbles, adding to the melodramatic effect.
I hear Elle’s loud shout “DAVE!!” If not for the water, I’ll be laughing my guts out, but it leaves no room for that. I swim around to another side and I’m pretty deep so Elle doesn’t see this. Soon, my lungs will be screaming for air, but for now, I’ll enjoy the prank.

I cannot remove from my mind the moment that I came up and splashed water on the unknowing girl. I end up laughing even more above the water at the soaked and stunned Elle.

“Dave!” she yells. I am still laughing and my eyes are closed because of this, I fail to notice her sly move towards me. She lunges and lands in the water right in front of me sending some water up my nostrils. I cough a bit, dazed, more because of the water though.

I splash some water her way, hitting her in the middle of a guffawing burst of laughter. I believe she swallowed some and now it is my turn to laugh. Before she could retaliate, I swim away, closely following the shore of the island. Elle is in hot pursuit, luckily for me, she’s not that great a swimmer, but she’s okay.

I’m just glad for the fun. It’s been some time since I’ve been able to relax so much. Elle’s presence helps and I’m grateful for it. Sure, as far as looks go, Elle is a great woman, but in personality, she’s even better. I think I’ve yet to meet someone much like her.

The hours pass in blissful roughhousing, albeit a gentler form and it’s very much uplifting. I realize that it’s almost midday and it will soon be too hot to swim in the light of the sun. I tell Elle this and she answers by splashing water in my face. “Last one out of the water’s a rotten egg!” she exclaims.

I’m all too happy to take on the challenge. Once on shore, we fall on the sand laughing. I go around the tree to get into drier clothing. The first thing I see when I get back is Elle drawing on her sketchpad. I see that it’s an illustration of the lake, it’s beautiful.

She looks at me and says “Would you like to try your hand at drawing?”

I’m not too much of an artist, but I take up the offer. I take at least half an hour drawing, at least trying to do so. When I’m done I show it to Elle, a proud look on my face. “Oh! A squirrel!” She says promptly.

“What? Where?”

“There! You drew one!”

“I did not! I drew a tree! See, there are the branches, that’s the trunk, those are the roots!” When I see the puzzled expression on Elle’s face, I return it. I’m confused, muchly so.

“Oh, I am so sorry, I thought you were pointing at random squiggly lines.”

“That is IT!” I put the sketchpad down reverently, and I begin tickling her. “Vengeance is mine!” I shout.

“S--Stop it Dave!” Elle pleads between laughs. Her eyes are brimming with tears from all the doubled-over laughing she’s doing.

“Oh well…” I sigh, finally stopping, but pushing in one last tickle. She’s had a chance to show off her talent, now it’s my turn. “Elle, want to hear a story?”

“Of course! Let’s see if you’re better at it than at drawing.” A playful smirk spreads across her face. She’s mocking me, I guess, but it’s time to prove her wrong.

I spend the next half hour weaving a fantastic story of lands lost to lore and myth, of beasts shrouded by mystery and heroes seeking glory beyond all else. I bring her into a world of my creation, where magic ran rampant, where the shadow had fallen. I recite to her with a blazing passion the saga of which I am proud of.

I spend each moment describing in detail every landscape, every character, every beast and every scene. Her eyes stare at me through it all; she utters not a word as I put forth my best. I smile at this, and I carry on, proud of the trance I have her in.

A smile spreads across her face as I enter the waters of romance between my heroes. They are but pawns in my world, characters to move about; my eloquence is their law, their destiny. War erupts and ends at the whim of my word, the dark one gains dominance and is fought back by the heroes at my command, I am a god.

At the tips of my fingers, my main hero falls in love with a lowly peasant girl he meets in a farm during his travels. He stays for a while, eventually falling further and further for the girl, but the allure of destiny calls at him again and again, each time stronger than the last. Elle giggles at this and I--I smile and continue with my saga.

I recite with a flame that would put even the most skilled bard at shame. I speak with a passion directed to the woman I find affection for; I speak with a strength bestowed by the beginnings of love.
Time passes as we are immersed in this world of which I am creator. I look at her and weave my tale, she looks at me drinking it all in, but most of all is that spark of affection, the beginnings of love that I believe we shared at that moment. But as all things cannot go on forever, I bring my tale to a close.

My hero, in his world meets a timely death, brought by natural causes. The glory he sought is still distant as the stars, but he won glory himself, in his own way, he managed to make the world a better place, albeit, no one knew it was his deed. He never saw the peasant girl of his younger days again, but as he entered death’s cold embrace, she ushered him on, and shared it with him.

At the solemn note of the sudden end of my story, Elle stares into the sky wistfully. Perhaps she is contemplating some sort of philosophical ideology to my story, I for one am tired from the story telling so I idly wait for the breakthrough to come. Elle’s face brightens up and I await the wondrous exclamation about some deep seeded truth in my story. To my disappointment, she says this “You should write a book! You’re really talented; make sure I get a signed copy when you get published.” Even worse, she says this while flashing one of those big grins of hers that makes me want to swoon.

“Maybe I should and maybe you should get a start on an artist’s career too!” I say, returning the same stupidly put statement. It may be stupid, but it does the trick. As though hit by a rock, Elle opened her mouth all of a sudden.

“Mom told me you should come by the house some time!”

I am taken aback at the statement, stunned I mouth my words slowly “Hmm… I guess I should! When?”

“I think you should come by tonight!”

“What?!” Even more shock replaces the previous shock that I felt. I can’t help but laugh at Elle, I’m pretty sure I look like an idiot by now. As though my thoughts dictate her, she gives me a puzzled look.

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Well, shocking revelation... For Dave at least. Here's the next chapter, I Put on a Facade

It all Began and Ended with a Tree... Part 9

Hold your horses! Have you read the first Chapter? No? Well here's the link: Chapter 1

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It all Began and Ended with a Tree
Chapter 9

From the moment I leave the island to the time I get to my room, I giggle uncontrollably. Mom looked at me with one of those “weirded-out” looks. Even old man Cesar smiled and patted me on the back.

That wistful expression of Dave’s is just plastered before my eyes. It’s like an immaculate apparition that just won’t go away. He’s handsome and that expression of his is just all the more cute. It makes me just want to swoon.

I know I shouldn’t be, at least not yet, but I’m falling for his agreeable manner and kind personality. After all, who wouldn’t be? He’s like a dream, everything good in a guy packaged together in small amounts. I feel like this getting to know him more business is a win-win situation.


For some reason I can’t stop thinking about him. It comes into my mind that we will be swimming come morning and the flirt inside me flips out at the thought. I get butterflies in my stomach just thinking about seeing Dave shirtless.

I admit, I may be way too in over my head, but this is someone special we’re talking about! I’ve never felt this way before, but I definitely like it. It’s like a feeling that someone is always there for you, to catch you when you fall. Someone to raise you up when you’re down, maybe even someone to make sure you swim, not sink. It’s like everything in the world that you could ever need is with this special person.

I never knew that falling for someone would be this wonderful a feeling. I like it; I really, really like it.
I’m too anxious about tomorrow and I can barely sleep because of that! For once in my life, I stare at the ceiling for an hour before finally falling asleep. This is of course, because I am thinking of Dave.

The next morning brings a refreshing breeze and lively sunlight. I wake up and stretch as I do normally. I inhale the cool, fresh air and I raise my hands above my head as I soak in the sunlight. It takes me a moment, though, to realize that mom is sitting at the foot of the bed. The moment I do, however, I feel as though I want to jump out of my own skin.

“Good morning dear!” Mom exclaims with that oh-so-happy grin of hers. It just so happens, I seem to have inherited that from her and I can imitate it perfectly.

“Good morning…” I trail off dismayed before continuing. I end the statement as a question though. “…Mom?”

“So… How is my girl doing?” Yet again, mom is surprising me with things she’s never done before. She nudges me with an elbow while grinning, for goodness’ sake! Usually she’s this calm in demeanor and submissive woman. But today, however, she’s blooming like a rose.

“Actually, mom, I’m fine! A bit excited even…”

“Oh, so I take it you’re getting to know Dave better. And you’re finding that he’s a fine young man, hmm…?”

“Yes… hmm… Yeah! I guess so!”

“You know what, bring him over someday.” She says this while ruffling my hair. She’s beaming like a ray of light and in her eyes is a sparkle that I’ve never seen before.

Her happiness is absolutely contagious. I find myself smiling and eventually giggling ever so slightly. I couldn’t even speak straight from all the laughing. The thought of Dave contributes a bit to the positive vibes. I finally manage to say “Okay mom!”

With that she smiles at me and trots out of the room, a happy step in her gait. I scratch my head for a while, puzzled at what just happened. Oh, don’t get me wrong, I’m still giggling my guts out.

I manage to regain my composure and I finally get into packing my things. I take my bathing suit and stick it into a bag. For some reason, I bring along my sketchpad. I guess it’s because I just feel that it would fit in the happy vibe that the day is showing. I stuff a couple of random things into the bag for otherworldly reasons.

The moment I finish I run down the stairs and into the kitchen. A quick breakfast is all it takes and I’m off, flinging myself off of the porch. I catch up with old man Cesar as he makes his way down to the dock and I take a hold of his arm. I beam up at him and I help him down to the dock and into his boat.

We zip off towards the island within moments and I smile as the wind whistles past my face. I can just feel the surge of elation in my body when I see the island. The beautiful tree stands there, its leaves dancing in the soft breeze, I want to reach out and touch it. Finally, the engine revs down and I am ready to get off the boat.

Once on the island, I spot Dave and I run towards him. I stop in front of him, a bit reluctant, and then I hug him. My face is flushed with color, so is his as he hugs me too. No matter how much I think I like him, there’s still something that resembles an invisible wall that hangs between us; it’s frustrating, but it can still be worked on.

“So, Elle, shall we get dressed?” Dave scratches his head at the notion. He’s probably working out how to not be seen naked around me.

“Umm… okay… You dress on the other side of the tree, I dress on this side. That way, we don’t get to see each other nude.” His face lights up as though I just answered his biggest conundrum.

He walks over to the other side to get dressed and I can barely hear the rustling of clothes. I dress up too, but I do it quickly. It’s a talent of mine, getting dressed in a short time. Mom is usually frustrated by this, but I am absolutely not.

Around the time I finish, Dave is done too. I walk around to see him, when I was in front of him; he raised his eyes to me. His mouth hangs agape for reasons that I do not know. He manages to utter a few words though.

“Wow… just, wow! You look gorgeous, Elle!”

“Thanks Dave.” I flash one of my trademark smiles at him. Well, he is sitting down so I help him up, and that’s when it hit me.

I stand here, mouth agape at what I see. The flirt in me kinda says “Even better than what I hoped for.” In the sun, Dave’s finely sculpted body and slightly tanned color becomes completely apparent. He’s dreamy, I admit, but he’s dreamier when he’s shirtless.

The color rushes to my face and I try to look away, but it’s the first time I’ve seen a guy shirtless, other than Dad, and that is something I would want to forget. My eyes remain locked on him and my mouth is open. Dave says something like “You might ingest a mosquito…” and laughs while he gently forces my mouth closed.

With that he runs down to the water’s edge and plunges headfirst in. I’m about to follow, but I don’t see him resurfacing. Worry then clouds my logical thinking. I don’t even consider that it might be a prank. I shout his name as loud as I could.

“DAVE!!!”

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Well, a bit of suspense never, EVER hurts, have any violent reactions? BEAT IT! Just kidding, anyway, someone has been pushing me to post this, so here's chapter 10: I Take the Mantle of a Bard

It all Began and Ended with a Tree... Part 8

Hold your horses! Have you read the first Chapter? No? Well here's the link: Chapter 1

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It all Began and Ended with a Tree
Chapter 8

I hold my fingers gingerly over the place where Elle had slapped me. It stings like a thousand needles, nothing new. But there is something to the slap that makes it hurt all the worse.

I lower my hand and bring my other arm up to its level. I look at Elle with an at-a-loss expression. Yet again she surprises me by suddenly breaking into tears and falling against me. I hear her whispering “What did you do to the tree?”

“It wasn’t me.”

“Then who Dave? Who? You made me worry so much!”

“Someone who wanted me gone. It’s a long story, I’m so sorry…”

If there’s one thing in this world that could turn my knees into jelly it would be the sight of Elle crying. I have no idea, but it manages to make me lose my confidence, and it makes me guilty too.
I hold her at arm’s length and I hold her chin softly. I turn her head up softly and looked into her eyes with adoration. She looks straight at me too, a silent conversation takes place. There’s some sort of mutual understanding, words aren’t needed to know what the other is saying. I like it, but it’s weird. Thank heavens we’re isolated on an island.

I take her by the hand and help her sit where she usually sat. I stood beside her, one foot bent and placed on the tree. I find it cool. I’m acting a bit insensitive. I’m giving father’s death a cold shoulder. I can’t let it rule my life just yet.

Elle looks up at me, but I fail to notice the look in her eyes. Her lips tremble and she tries to say something, but she seals them again. I slide down from my position, into a crouch beside her. I quickly realize it as a big mistake, the bark of the tree digs into my back.

I too try to say something, but the courage deserts me. The moment I manage to muster my courage, I open my mouth and I begin to utter what I want to say. It turns out, Elle has the same idea and we stop in mid-sentence.

“You go first Elle.”

“No, you.”

“Okay”

“I’m not sure if I should keep meeting you here…”

“How come?”

“I’m not even sure of my feelings for you…”

“Well, you’re not the only one Elle…”

“WHAT?! You have someone else don’t you?”

“No, no” I say, scratching my head at the peculiar reaction. “I was talking about me.”

“Oh… Well, your turn.”

“I’ve just been offered the post of mayor.”

“Oh… That’s great!”
 
“I don’t want to take it…”

“How come?”

“I think someone better off could lead the town.”

“Well, it’s your life, you make the choices. Just know, whatever happens, I’ll be with you all the way.”
 
“Wait, I thought you said you were unsure of how you felt about me.”

“Hey, that doesn’t mean I can’t be a friend.”

I want so much to kiss her. I’m just trying to be modest and respect her feelings. Were I not, I would kiss her then and there and feel like the happiest man alive.

“I guess so… You know what, I’m sticking with my decision. I’m turning down the offer.”

“Why acting so modest Dave? You can lead people. You’re kind, you’re young, you’re good-looking--“ I am stunned. Elle stops mid sentence and takes a sudden liking of her feet. Again, I cup my fingers around her chin tenderly. I look at her, and I am surprised to see her face cherry red.

“A-awkward… Thanks though… No, I don’t want any part of politics. Besides, there are more people out there better than me…”

“Look at me Dave, look into my eyes. Are you saying the truth?” The question appals me, but I guess it is okay. I figure Elle would like some sense of security.

“Yes… Why would you think otherwise?”

“I just wanted to be sure… Dave…”

The moments pass and we hold each other’s gaze for what seems to be an eternity. I cannot describe the elation and serenity that floods my heart.

The moment is broken by the piercing cries of the birds that pass overhead. We both look up, expecting a flock, but there are only two birds.

My heart, all of a sudden, fills with yearning for freedom, freedom from the problems of the world and freedom from pain, misery and suffering.

We are both here, sitting under the tree, in its shade. We are both looking to the skies, contemplating its depth. I keep thinking that Elle is certainly “The One.” I’m not sure though, and I better not take any chances.

There is something, however, that I am completely sure of already. I’m not taking up the mantle of mayor. It’s too much of a responsibility.

“Hey, Elle. We’re on an island right, since we’re surrounded by water, we should at least take a dip.”

“Maybe next time, Dave. I don’t have any spare clothes.”

“Oh okay… So, what do you want to do?”

“I just want to relax… a lot has happened, you know?”

“Yeah… Tomorrow then?”
 
“Will do…”

The day passes by like a snail. We are sitting there, having the time of our lives. We point to clouds that have funny shapes and then we burst into laughter.
When I take a crack at joking, we would pause for a moment. Melodramatic even, and then, we would burst out guffawing. It’s silly, yes, but it makes me feel like the happiest man alive.
The moment we get bored of staring at the clouds, Elle gets this mischievous look. I have no idea what she’s about to do until she does it. She tickles me.

It’s really as if she has known me since birth. She knows exactly where to tickle me. I can barely breathe and a tear rolls down my cheek from all the laughing. I manage to stand up and run from her.
We end up chasing each other around the tree like children. But then, Elle trips on a stone and falls face first in the stand. I help her up and she brushes the sand from her face.

She then begins laughing. Take my word for it, her laughter is contagious. Soon enough, I’m doubled over having coughing fits because of all the laughing. I think my jaw hasn’t had this much work since, like forever.

I really, really enjoy her company. I even think that’s a gross understatement. Our day ends with a bittersweet note. On one hand, we’re parting already and the fun won’t come around until the next day. On the other hand, it was even better than the previous times we had together.

We part our ways with aching bellies because of laughter. My side hurts from all the tickling too. Elle gets in the boat and makes me laugh one more time. She’s the one that waves goodbye frantically this time. I just wave my hand idly in the air, stunned.

I begin the swim back to the hut. It’s when the bitterness of father’s death sinks in and I cry when I reach the shore. I wipe the tears from my eyes; I have one last stop to make.
The moment I am not dripping we anymore, I dress myself. I start the long trip to the old woman that had offered the position. I knock on her door and she is the one that comes out.
It is the dead of night and I am concerned why she is still up. I walk up to her and I take her hands. I tell her “I’m sorry, but I can’t take the responsibility.”

“That’s too bad… We thought you’d make a good leader. After all, you’re the one that leaves bread with the needy…”

“H-how did you know about that?”

“It’s a small town, dear, word gets around quickly.”

“Well, I believe this town could have a better say at its future. Make it so that the people choose their ruler. Make it a democracy.”

“Very well. We shall do as you say, but will you not take back the mansion at least?”

“No, I’ll just take a portion of the money, just enough to buy some clothes, fix my hut and gain me some sustenance.”

“You know what dear? You’ll make a good leader, but you’ll make a better man. You’re pure of heart, may life bring you fortune.”

“You know what, ma’am? I hope so too…” At that moment, it was Elle on my mind.

I go home and I plop down on my cot. I look to the ceiling, deep in my own thoughts.

I shed many a tear for father. I think back upon all the wonderful times we spent together. But I guess he wouldn’t want me to cry over him. It’s the kind of man he is, he would rather have people laughing at memories of him than crying at his funeral. The thought reminds me that I should at least give him a proper burial. I would think about it come the morrow.
For now, I pray that Elle really is the one. I haven’t had such a time in my life as I do with her. I don’t know, but I feel as though I’ve really fallen for her. But the thought that she might not have the same feelings for me stings.

I fall asleep thinking of Elle. The dreams bring pleasant images because of her, not vivid projections of the terror that Mother wrought. The night is calm, the waves lap at the shore. The crickets sing in the distance and the cawing of the occasional bird echoes. All is well with my world, at least I hope it is so.

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Well, now that isn't too bad isn't it? Such lovers, the two. Here's the next chapter: A Swim to Remember

It all Began and Ended with a Tree... Part 7

Hold your horses! Have you read the first Chapter? No? Well here's the link: Chapter 1

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It all Began and Ended with a Tree
Chapter 7

I run down the parched road. I run past a few trees with lush green leaves. I run for what seems an eternity. I stop just in front of Old man Cesar. I look at him. My eyes are a mixture of pain and reluctance.

“Take me to Dave!” I throw all caution to the wind and I grab old man Cesar’s shirt. I shake him and his white hair into disarray.

“Why? What’s the matter? You seem so shaken? I don’t see why you would be.” Then and there, I take note that old man Cesar was a great actor.

“I overheard you and your friend talking. Take me to Dave!” He stubbornly refuses my demand. He gently holds my hands and takes them off of his shirt.

“Elle, there’s nothing you can do. I don’t want to put Dave into bigger trouble than he is already. You want to go to him, go yourself.” He grabs my forearm and takes me to his speedboat. He teaches me how to make it run. After a while, I think I have the reins and I take off, leaving old man Cesar drenched in water.

I am quickly exasperated. I wasn’t able to ask how to steer. Luckily, the wind was blowing in the direction of our shore. I let the engine die and allow the wind to take me back home.

“You happy now?” Old man Cesar looks at me. His voice carried somewhat a twang of sympathy. I growl, surprisingly. I turn my back on him and I trot back to the house indignantly. I eat dinner half-heartedly. Mother looks at me sympathetically. I go up to my room, shut myself in and I try my best to fall asleep. The uncertainty is killing me, but I guess it won’t help to deprive myself of health.

The next day comes and I wake up dazed to the sound of a rapping on my door. I mumble “Come in.” My speech is slurred. The door creaks open and I hear footsteps down the floor. The feeling is strangely eerie. I already know who it is and I get up squinting in the light. I ask all the same.

“Mom?”

“Indeed…”

“It’s so early…”

“Yeah, but you were too depressed last night to talk.”

“I guess so…”

“You know what, even if Dave isn’t the one for you just now… You have to believe he is, after all, what have you to lose?”

“I guess so. Thanks mom…” I’ve never felt so comfortable. Take my word for it. I’m never going to take mom for granted ever again. Just her presence has proven a mighty tool in the war against depression.

“Don’t worry… It will all be over soon…” She takes something from behind her. At first it looks like something long wrapped in cloth. It’s like a knife with a long handle. I think it’s just that. My heart jumps, but more of the object is revealed.

It’s a crucifix. The stipes and patibulum are very distinct. Mom hangs it up on the wall at facing my bed. I stare at it in wonder. It is exquisitely crafted, the wood is finely polished. The ends of the beams are covered with finely wrought gold. The image of Christ is so real upon it.
“Elle, belief is powerful, but it is not enough. You have to act upon it. Nothing will work unless you do.”

Her words echo in my mind long after she leaves the room. She’s just precious. I realize I would have to talk to her more. Usually, I just sit beside dad and have as lively a conversation as possible. More often than not, it’s a one sided conversation. When it becomes a dialogue though, dad doesn’t utter anything but the occasional grunt. Wonderful conversationalist isn’t he?

Believing is a touchy subject. My “belief” is now concentrated on the possibility that Dave is in trouble. Anyway, something hits me like a slap. I always thought the expression “It suddenly hit me” was just figurative. As it turns out, it’s quite tactile.

I figure that there’s a slight chance that Dave’s at the island. I sneak out and I spot old man Cesar by the dock. I sit beside him not uttering a word. He looks at me, I look at him. My eyes carry the message. His eyes strongly disagree. Finally, he breaks.

“Fine, get in the boat.”

I refuse to move.

“Okay, I’ll teach you how to steer.”

Only then do I stand up and move towards the boat. I get in and so begin the lessons in steering. I find it is fairly straightforward. A feeling of apprehension shoots up in my chest. We aren’t even halfway there.

The moment the island swings in to clearer view, I finally manage to breathe. There, upon the beach is a young handsome man. He is walking up and down the sand. What catches me is the thoughtful expression on his face. It’s just striking.

There’s more to the wistful face of the boy than what is apparent. I see that there’s something more of like a burden I the way he trots up and down the beach, in the way he would heave his shoulders every once in a while… It’s both disconcerting and cute.

I might be giving off the wrong idea. It’s come into my mind before. As we get ever closer, I feel reluctance. Yes, I was so eager to go to the island and now I’m reluctant. I’m blaming my conflicting emotions for this.

The moment I step on the island, the cold reality of the situation sinks in. I have no idea what to say or what to do. I just stood there. Dave eventually saw me and his face immediately lit up. That makes me smile, but not for long.

Dave walks up to me and spreads his arms wide. I think he wants a hug. I gingerly open my arms too, then I do something neither of us expected. I slap Dave.

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Bittersweet reunion... hmph... Here's the next: It Stings

It all Began and Ended with a Tree... Part 6

Hold your horses! Have you read the first Chapter? No? Well here's the link: Chapter 1

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It all Began and Ended with a Tree
Chapter 6

In the room, I have enough time to think. I just needed to point out some things to myself. Everything happened so fast with mother that I had no time to analyze what she was saying. Now in the room, I have enough time to do just that.

I take everything and leave no stone unturned. I collect my thoughts and begin to pry through them. For one, I wonder how mother knew that I was meeting with Elle. Secondly, how did she find out about the carving? It is a conundrum to me, but nonetheless, a grave problem.

I still have no idea how I’m going to get out of this situation. In less than twenty-four hours I will be sold off and long gone. The windows are all barred and the door is locked. The curtains are drawn and no light can enter the room. The entire thing is lit by this chandelier that hung by the ceiling.

My stomach growls and I figure that it is noon. That leaves me with barely more than half a day to figure things out. I look at the door and it creaks open. A servant steps in with a platter of a sumptuous lunch. Mother is just trying to get on my good side now.

I eat it all the same; I figure I need to have energy if I ever need to bolt from the house. I formulate a plan of escape. I waste no time putting it into action. I lunge for the door and I bang on it loudly. The men positioned outside have large batting sticks, if I remember correctly. One of them peeks inside; I wrench the door open and hit him in the face and between the legs. I take his stick and go for the other guard who still hadn’t realized what was happening.

I run for it. I make it outside safely; there is a coach there that is idle. I figure I have to use what I have to run away. I make for it and I open the door. I suddenly realize that was the biggest folly I could have ever made. Immediately, two pairs of rough hands grab me and pin me to a seat. Sure enough, mother was in the coach, as was father.

My eyebrows knot. My glare is intense enough to melt through steel. Still, mother is undeterred. My muffled cries of protest are in vain as are my struggles against those who held me. I look at father, my eyes a mixture of anger, sympathy and pleading. He looks at me and holds the eye contact for a few seconds. I pray that he would understand, but alas, he turns his head to the side and begins whispering to mother.

I glare at both, my blood at a boil. I just want to smash their heads into each other just to have it all over with. Then again, I didn’t want to kill. I want to shake father back to his senses, just so that he could see what mother is doing. I want to have the father I knew and loved as a child back. Mother’s corruption is just making that a harder goal to achieve.

As soon as they are done, mother shouts “Take us to the meeting place!” Much too obliged, the coach driver goaded the horses on. The crack of a whip is all it takes to make us rumble down to the streets. I wonder why mother did not just use the car, it was then I realized, the meeting place must be somewhere secluded. I figure it would be in the forest, a terrain too hostile for today’s car.
The road is rocky and the way is far. Every time we hit a stone, the entire coach lurches in one direction or the other. It is disconcerting and it distracts me from thinking up anything useful. We are now in full view of the forest, the trees are tall and the branches are already interlinked. However, it isn’t dark and dismal, copious amounts of sunlight stream through the canopy. It’s just something else that distracts me from my thoughts.

We go down a hard game trail. The coach rumbles on at a pace that one could classify as a trot. The forest is still and silent. There is no buzzing of flies, no chirping of birds. It just deepens my despair altogether.

I try one last futile attempt at breaking free. Alas, no measure of strength can deter my captors. Mother looks at me and smirks. “Evil hag!” I shout in my mind.

“Don’t you worry dear. Where you’re going, you’ll be comfortable.” She looks at me with cold soulless eyes and then proceeds to look outside. By now we have reached a clearing. Mother gets down, so do the two men. Father stays inside the coach, but he beckons to me to lower the window slowly. I don’t know where father is going with this but I follow his advice all the same.

Mother walks up in front of the coach and yells something incomprehensible. It must have been in the Language of Eld, but my limited knowledge wasn’t able to decipher it. From the trees, men carrying rifles emerge. After them, a fat man and a woman far too young to be his wife but nonetheless holding his arm, emerge from the trees. A sickly girl is in front of them. Mother goes to the man and begins to speak with contempt. “Father.”

“Beth, it’s been such a long time since you called me that. It still sounds no better.”

The revelation shakes me to my core. Thoughts of Elle nag me at the back of my head, but I am too intent on the conversation to mind.

“Hmph. You never appreciated it anyway. Where is mother?”

“Your mother? Why, she was my twelfth wife, did you think she would have lasted?”

“Hm… So is this woman your wife?”

“Yes. Enough with the small talk, where is my slave?

“He’s in the coach.”

“Bring him out.”

“As you wish.” Mother beckons to the men and they move for the coach. Father looks at me, his eyes sad.

“Dave, I’m sorry, I’ve failed you. But let me make it up to you today. When I say run, run down the path, some of my men are waiting for you a ways away. Again, I’m sorry…”

“Father… You’ve nothing to apologize for. It’s all mother’s doing!” A sickening feeling of remorse filled my heart. I look at father, he looks at me, and it is just like the old times. It is just like when I had a problem with someone special, he was always there. Now, the familiar feeling is back, and it’s something I’ve long yearned for.

“But I could have stopped her. It’s something I should have done a long time ago.” Father opens the coach door and turns to dismount from the coach. At the last moment, he looks back and mutters. “I love you, son.”

“I love you too, father…” He tells me to get out a few seconds after him. He adds that I should make sure that there is a wide enough distance between us. He walks up to the two men. My heart is filled with anticipation. Knowing father, he should be able to talk the deal off.

He does the last thing I expect him to. Time slows as he shouts “Dave! Run!” He punches one of the men and kicks the other between the legs. He pushes himself towards mother. Unwillingly, my feet take me farther and farther away from him. Down the path, strong hands grab me and hide me in the trees. They must be from father’s men. My heart jumps when gut wrenching cries arise amidst a fanfare of bullet shots. The bangs of the guns echoed sharply through the trees.

“Father!” I scream. I try my best to resist the urge, but my instincts are telling me to run back and take vengeance. The men help, but I fight them too. A shallow, half-hearted scream of remorse echoed throughout the forest. It must have been Mother, seeing Father struck down. “The heartless fiend” I say in my mind.

A booming voice came after that. “It is a pity, Beth that the deal is off. But I am a man who does not leave without getting what he wants. There will be a slave taken, and it will be you.”

“What? No! Stay away from me!”

“Hahaha! You little she-devil. You will be mine again!”

“You disowned me! And now you want to take me back?”

“Yes”

Stunned, I run with the men who helped me. They take me back to the village. It is then that I realize, it was my grandfather that wanted me as a slave. “Evil must run in the family. I will be the one to make it all change.” I tell myself.

The reality about father sank in then and there. I break down and cry. I walk down to my hut, dazed. The next few hours come and go quickly. I hear a knock on the door and I am shaken back to reality.

I open the door; it is one of the old women of the village. What she says almost turns my already topsy-turvy world into an even messier one. “On behalf of the entire village… We would like to give our condolences about your parents. Since both are gone, you are the only remaining heir of that governance. You will be the logical choice for the role of mayor. Would you be willing to take this mantle of responsibility?”

“Thanks for the offer… I-I’ll think about it.”

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Well, that was a bit surprising. To think... Anyway, here's the next chapter: Something Unexpected

It all Began and Ended with a Tree... part 5

Hold your horses! Have you read the first Chapter? No? Well here's the link: Chapter 1

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It all Began and Ended with a Tree
Chapter 5

I lie on my bed, my mind is in turmoil. I look out my window, everything is so still. I try to get myself angry at Dave, but the emotion keeps draining away. I can’t seem to hold on to this welling anger. I know I should be, since he did destroy the carving. I can’t help but sense that something is amiss.

The wind blows into my room, and the dim sunlight filters in. What began as a wonderful day is now cloudy and dismal. It’s as though the weather is reflecting what I am feeling inside. I can’t help but feel as though Dave is in some sort of a pickle right now.

It doesn’t matter, really, but even though there’s this nagging in my skull about Dave’s wellbeing, my thoughts are still conflicting. For one, it’s as though I’m still relieved that he didn’t show up on the island today. It’s giving me more time to think. But I also feel disappointed, because somewhere deep inside, I was looking forward to another day with him.

I shrug it off, and I try to apply myself more. I whip up a book from the miniature shelf beside my bed but I can’t concentrate on reading it. I take up my pencil and sketchpad. I look out the window for a good half hour looking for some form of motivation, but nothing strikes me. I finally sit before a table and take out some old map of the lake.

I realize then that the island isn’t actually in the middle of the lake. It is a lot closer to the opposite shore than it is with our shore. It is then that a thought strikes me. So that’s how Dave manages to swim to the island. Another thought comes to me. If it’s that near, then someone else would be able to go to the island easily.

For a moment, I hope that it was someone else that did that grievous deed. However, my conflicting emotions push it to the back of my head. Everything is too difficult for me to take, eventually, I cry. The streams of hot tears on my cheeks almost feel like infernos. The map develops large blots. My tears are dripping uncontrollably. I am sobbing too.

Someone seems to have taken notice and knocks at my door. I make no move to open it, rather I move for the bed and I sit there, crying. I hear the turning of a lock and the creaking of a hinge. No voice comes from the doorway, just soft, padded footsteps as they made their way across the wooden threshold.

I look up with tear-blurred vision and I barely make out the person who entered. It is mom. She sits beside me and places my head on her shoulder, and her head on top of mine. She breathes slowly and I can feel comfort and peace spread throughout my entire being. It takes but a few moments for me to calm down. I remain in her embrace for what seems an eternity.

When I am done, she takes me by the arms, and holds me out in front of her. She smiles at me. That’s all it takes to calm me down even more. She looks at me; her eyes were burdened with a familiar sadness. I saw in them something. I guess it is me that I saw.

“So… can you tell me what’s happened?” There is a twang of sympathy and a dash of sadness in her voice. Her lips barely move as she utters those first words that break the silence.

“Well… you already know it’s about a boy… right?” It takes me a few moments before I begin actually talking. Before that, I tried to speak, but nothing came out.

“I know that much.”

“Well… we’ve been meeting at the island for the past two days. Yesterday, he told me he liked me, and I told him I liked him too. So we carved our initials on the tree.”

“You did what now? Dear, don’t you think that was going a bit too fast?” I know that by now Mom is trying to cheer me up. Her eyes don’t do much to convince me though.

“Well, exactly. On the way home until I was lulled to sleep by my own thoughts, that was what I was thinking about. I was thinking whether or not it was the right thing to do.”

“Good. So what’s all this crying about?”

“Well, when I got to the island today, the carving was mutilated, practically destroyed…” I trail off for a moment. I had to, just to keep myself from bawling again. “I blamed Dave. For some reason I just can’t become angry at him…”

Mom looked at me sympathetically again. It breaks my heart just looking at her. “I went through the same thing dear. Trust me, as you get to know the person more, it will all go away.”

Mom stands up, looks at me one last time and then turns around. I don’t know if it’s just my imagination, but I see something that strikes a stake into my heart. Mom wiped a tear from her cheek as she walked out of the door.

For some unfathomable reason, everything was replaced by calm. It happened after I had that conversation with Mom, and it felt good.

It is at that moment that I catch wind of a conversation happening in the distance. I heard old man Cesar’s voice and someone else’s gruff voice. I take the other as one of old man Cesar’s fishermen friends. I recognize the voice as someone that old man Cesar often talks to. I think his name is Aaron. I only catch a few words at first, but they’re enough to terrify me to the bone.

“Was… fishing… other… shore… Someone… kidnapped… black hair… fair… I… had… tell!”

“Calm down Aaron!”

“I think it was the child of the mayor!”

“You mean the Dave kid? Elle has been meeting with him on the island since two days ago!”

“I-I think so!”

“Why would he be kidnapped?”

“I heard from one of the merchants in the village that his mother was planning to sell him off as a slave. When she gave birth to him, her husband left her, her family disowned her and it was as though the entire wrath of heaven was dealt to her in one blow. I wouldn’t wish what happened to her upon even my worst enemy.”

“What?! But that’s illegal!”

“I know, but his mother has held a grudge against him ever since he was a child. She just couldn’t get rid of him because the situation would get worse. I also heard that they were going to pass off the slave trade as a marriage.”

“What kind of evil woman would do that?”

“It seems the worst kind would, Cesar. Dave’s mother rules the other village with an iron fist. When she was widowed, she looked for someone to live off of. She found and managed to ensnare Dave’s foster father. Dave grew up in that household and grew very close to his father. The day his mother became mayor of the village though, and his father did nothing to stop her, Dave vowed never to return to that mansion.”

“This is a lot of evil happening. What can we do?”

“Nothing, Cesar. We can’t do anything but stand by and watch.”

“Then I shall tell Elle.”

“Why?”

“Because Dave is someone special for her.”

“Then don’t. You’ll just make the situation worse.”

My heart almost stops. I make a run for it. I bolt for the door, I run down the stairs and I fling myself from the porch. I have to get to where Dave is immediately.

==**==**==//==**==**==

Go Elle! Try to rescue Dave... Even if you don't have any idea how you'd do it... Chapter 6 Y'all: Evil Runs in the Family

It all Began and Ended with a Tree... Part 4

 Hold your horses! Have you read the first Chapter? No? Well here's the link: Chapter 1

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It all Began and Ended with a Tree...
Chapter 4

I tossed in my sleep. Or at least that’s what I think I am doing. The dream is too vivid, too real, too terrifying. I am at the island and the sky is dark. The pinpricks of light that were usually in the sky were gone. The wind was howling as I looked upon a tree bathed in the livid light of the moon. Invisible waves crashed upon an equally unseen shore.

The sand that I never set sight on shifted beneath my feet. My hair is tangled, disarrayed as I stand there, unmoving, a lone sentinel existing for no purpose. My mind has no thoughts running through it. Save, perhaps, for concern for what I was doing in the waking world.

Something gripped me. It chilled me to the bone. It overshadowed my every move. My feet were under a spell, they walk of their own accord. My heart almost stopped. The same force raises my hand in front of my face, clutched in it is a sharp stone. The unknown power takes me to the tree. Slowly, I realize that it is the tree where my initials and Elle’s were carved.

It took all my restraint to even try to stop myself from what I was about to do. Like magic, the force evaporated. I place the stone down at the foot of the tree, unused. I realize that this is no nightmare. It is simply the day’s events playing once more in my mind’s eye.

I take a deep breath as I am shocked back into the waking world. It is still dark, even if I left the island at near midnight. I think of Elle. Everything is so confusing. I felt as though I should have confessed but at the same time as though I shouldn’t have. I make up my mind quickly. I need to know her more. That was the last thought to enter my mind as I doze off once more.

When I awake, the sun is shining and the birds are singing. All of a sudden, in a miraculous moment, they stop. Two men appear before me, I manage to glare at them both before they take me by force.

I am carried by the two into a car. I am bound and gagged and taken from my home. There is only one thing that is on my mind. Elle, I could not bear the thought of not being able to meet her at the island. My thoughts were abuzz, the confusion was back. I was both repulsed and relieved by the fact that I probably won’t be at the island when Elle arrives. Repulsed because Elle would probably be wondering where I am, relieved because the events gave me more time to think about her.

Everything went topsy-turvy when I saw the mansion looming in the distance. Fear and anger wrap their thorny tendrils around my being. My eyes are glaring, I shout and I squirm. The ropes and the gag do their jobs well, I am completely powerless. I cannot do anything to avert what was about to happen.

The gates open soundlessly, the hinges are well oiled. I gaze at the familiar surroundings, feelings of nostalgia mixing in with the already chaotic emotions in my heart. The walls stretch all around the compound, white and pristine. The car enters and my captors remove the rope. They remove the gagging, but the moment I try to make a run for it, they take my arms in a strong grip. I cannot escape.

We enter the large doors made of mahogany. The knocker is metal coated with gold. Everything is crafted exquisitely, from the largest framework to the smallest detail. Inside, as we walk down the hall, a colonnade of marble marches on both sides. I attempt to struggle, but it is of no use. My captors are too strong.

We enter a large study. I take no stock of my surroundings any more. My temper flared the moment I set sight upon the two people waiting in the room. I grind my teeth together, frustrated at how helpless I am. The woman spoke, her voice musical and sweet. “Leave us.” is her command.

“What do you want?” Contempt fills my voice. An old loathing sparks inside me, my heart leaps. The creature inside me wants to lash out and rip the woman limb from limb.

“Now, now, is that the way to talk to your mother?” A smirk spreads across her face. The sweet, innocent and musical voice was just a façade for a rotten inside. My anger is at a dangerous all-time high. It took all my restraint to stop from clawing at her.

“Tell me what you want, hag!”

“I want to leave this place and begin anew elsewhere. The neighboring country is rich and majestic. We will move there.”

“Your ambitions are as high as before mother.”

“Of course. You were a disappointment, if I should say so myself.”

“A disappointment? I was just doing what was best for the people of this village. For us!” The accusation made my blood boil. Father is in a corner, quietly reading a book.

“Why? Was raising the tax thrice a year really a bad thing?”

“Why you…” I glare at the woman. It was then that I lash out at father. I point at him and begin shouting. “Of all people in this wretched household, you were the one I depended on! You were the one I hoped against all hope to see the folly of the witch’s ways! But what? The allure of fame and money got to you. It’s not even real! It’s a vision spun by this-this wretched hag! How could you turn your back to the town?” He just shrugged and returned to reading his book.

“You’re not going to go anywhere with that tone of voice Dave.”

I mock her voice and return the statement. “What do I have to do with this?”

“Well, we do not have the proper papers to move to the country next door…” she trails off and I begin suspecting a lot.

“What are you getting at?”

“Well, we had to bribe our way out of that rut. However the person we had to bribe didn’t take just any kind of bribe.”

“Where do I fit in with all of this?”

“That’s where you come in. They want a, how do you say this, slave. But it’s illegal, so they’ll pass you off as their daughter’s husband.”

“What?!”

“Oh and don’t worry about your girl on that island. My men took care of her.”

“What did they do?”

“They destroyed the carving and made it seem as though it was you who did it.”

“How did they get to the island?”

“We bought a boat. You see how important you are for us? We even bought a boat for that.”

“You witch!” My blood is really boiling now. I want nothing more in the world but to lash out and tear the miscreant limb from limb. I yearn to destroy the scoundrel. I yelled at the top of my lungs, tears were brimming in my eyes. “What kind of mother does this to her child?! Tell me! You’re a demon! An incubus! You’re no human!”

She waves off the allegation and walks right up to me. She takes my chin in between her thumb and forefinger and turns my face from side to side. By now I feel the hot trails of tears upon my cheeks. My heart is churning, it’s as though my whole world has been turned upside down.

She rings a silver bell and her men enter the room. “Take him to a secure chamber.” is her command.

I sneer at the hag and I yell “Your ambitions are high as ever! But mark my words; your enterprise will not succeed!”

“Cute, that’s even better. You’ll make a wonderful… husband… oh, wait, no… I mean Slave.” With that I am carried off into the distance. Her final words echoing in my mind…

“Slave… Slave… Slave… slave…”

But then, something else comes and it fills my heart with a greater terror than ever before. Only one thing is brought to my attention: Elle.

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Well... That was disturbing. On to the next chapter! I am Chilled to the Bone

It All Began and Ended with a Tree... Part 3

 Hold your horses! Have you read the first Chapter? No? Well here's the link: Chapter 1

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It all Began and Ended with a Tree…
Chapter 3

Good Lord! Why, this is happening a wee bit too fast! Those were the words that bounced around inside my skull as we sped back to shore on the boat. But then again, that day was the best of my life. I just couldn't quite grasp things yet, but I think that the morrow will bring clarity.

So I walk into our brilliantly lit kitchen, a candle in the middle of the table. The electricity was out again, for our side of the lake at least. Anyway, mom and dad were there, getting ready for dinner. Mom approached me and said "You've got a smug look on your face… May I ask why?"

"Oh… Um… I met a new friend that's all." It was all I could say at the moment. But one look into her eyes, and mom flashed me that I-know-it's-about-a-boy smile of hers. The dinner was simple, rice and a fish stew from one of the larger fish that dad caught. I forgot to mention, dad fished when he had no tobacco to smoke. The meal was okay, it did a good job of fulfilling my hunger.

I went up to my room afterwards. I wasn't in the mood to talk to anyone. My mind was buzzing with questions, for some reason, my heart suddenly felt so heavy. Should I have agreed to carve our initials on the tree? Should I have told Dave that I liked him too? I'm not even sure.

I'm spiralling into a state of confusion; my heart is beating at a breakneck pace. I can't stop thinking of Dave but I don't want to think of him at the same time. Everything was happening too fast, but we barely even knew each other…

I force myself to dismiss everything. I find myself staring at the ceiling waiting for sleep to overtake me. And pretty soon, it does.

The next day brought no comfort from my troubles. My mind was still abuzz. Yesterday, the simple thought of seeing Dave on the island was enough to get me excited. Now, it just filled my heart with reluctance. But I had to go to the island; it was all I could do. I snuck out of the house and went down to the dock. Old man Cesar looked at me, the usual gleam in his eyes vanished at that moment. If he had seen the confusion that plagued me, he didn't say it.

I got in the boat and sat down quietly. We whizz across the lake, the wind whistling past my ears and throwing my hair into disarray. I savored the feeling for all it was worth. It managed to calm my nerves. Eventually, my mind is clear from those thoughts.

It all came rushing back at the first thing I saw when I set foot on the island. Upon where our initials once were, the bark of the tree had multiple gashes that completely obliterated the carving. At the base of the tree, around where I usually sat was a sharp stone. It still had pieces of bark stuck to it. It was the lethal weapon that obliterated that one memory that haunted me.

A mixture of relief and sadness overwhelmed me. I sat down at that moment and began to cry. My heart was pounding and my mind was abuzz. Who did this? Why did this happen? Was I at fault? Everything was conflicted. For some reason, I felt relieved that it was gone. But I was down at the same time for it had played a large part in one of the best days of my life.

It was then that an epiphany hit me. I looked up, the tree was silent. "Was it Dave who did this?" I went around the island, screaming his name. But he was nowhere to be seen. That was when the reality of the situation sank in. He wasn't on the island. He was the one who did it.

I felt anger well up, but it vanished soon. Gratitude replaced it, for some time. I blast wind through the whistle and old man Cesar comes rushing back. I look at him and he returned the gaze with sad eyes. He smiles ruefully I smile back all the same. When I get home, I'll go up to my room, lock my door and stay there until the sunrise.

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What has happened? Dave has vanished, Elle is confused. What is up with the world? Yet again, oh noes, cliffhangers. Here's chapter 4, but take my word for it, it's not for the faint of heart: A Witch is Brought to My Attention

It all Began and Ended with a Tree... Part 2

Hold your horses! Have you read the first Chapter? No? Well here's the link: Chapter 1

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It All Began and Ended with a Tree…
Chapter 2

I wave frantically at Elle as she leaves on that boat. I find it quite peculiar how she and the boatman communicated. Oh well, I guess that’s life; people are strange, sometimes even stranger than fictional characters. Then again, fiction is based on reality.

The sun is setting and the swim is going to be long. I grab my leather bag and do what I normally do. Then I begin the swim. It’s going to be dark soon, but it doesn’t matter, I know the lake better than most people and I can use the stars. Unlike many other places around the world, here, the sky is still clear! It’s as though the sky wishes to keep itself like that.

It’s already pitch-black when I come ashore. It’s a pity; really, I live on the opposite shore from where Elle lives. I live in a pretty nifty hut by the lakeside; evidently, I have no fear of gigantic waves.

I enter the hut and although it’s the dead of night the light of the moon is bright enough. However, as I search for a candle, I still stumble a few times. I even knock over a chair. Finally I found it, although much to my dismay, I forgot that I had no matches on me right then. I open the leather bag and took out a pack. I sigh; it had just a few in it left. I would have to get some more soon.

I forgot I was still nude. I found myself laughing at the thought. I took my clothes out of the leather bag and put my pants on, they were still dry, albeit a bit damp. I didn’t put my shirt on; it’s far too hot already. The leather bag is how I managed to keep my clothes dry. The bag was at most water-proof.

I take an apple from the pantry and started nibbling on it. I plop down on my bed beside a window. In all the excitement, if one could call it that, I almost forgot about Elle. It’s a good thing that she had yet to plague my mind. Not that her plaguing my mind is bad. Well, I guess it begins now.

It’s been a day, but I feel uplifted, lively, and powerful even! I’ve never been so happy in my life, save for those moments with those who caught my heart before. Alas, happiness with them seemed so short-lived. I wish against all odds, that Elle will be different. I think of her, that smile, and that laugh. I doubt anyone would be able to resist her charm. But there is something else about her, it’s as though she’s the half I never had. That was when it hit me. I think I’m absolutely, truly and entirely in love!

The epiphany was short lived. That moment, the memory of a friend from a previous ‘life’ erupted into my attention. It was one of those discussions we had in a posh room with lively music. One thing he said caught my mind. “But my dear friend, Dave, we are young… What do we know about love?”

Outside, in the distance was a massive mansion, even at night it gleamed with the light from the many fixtures outside it. It is in a Victorian style, beautiful and mystifying. I look at it sadly, and then, I drift off.

The morning comes and I wake up automatically. It’s already in my system. I take a mirror and examine myself. My face isn’t that angular, not too thin, not too chubby too. My eyes are brown and my hair is black. My skin is fair and smooth. I’m not that terribly handsome, nor am I ugly. I guess I’m your average ordinary guy. I place the mirror down, gingerly, it happens to be a broken-off piece of a larger one. My hut isn’t that quaint. It’s actually rundown, the only places where the roof doesn’t leak is over the pantry and over my room.

I put on my shirt and walk outside. I stretch as I inhale the cold fresh air. Don’t take my word for morning as that I’m walking in stark daylight. It’s only the crack of dawn. I pilfer some bread from a nearby bakery, making sure to leave a few coins. The baker need not know who I am. I go to the home of one of the poor people in the village. I then leave the bread on their window sill. They need it more than I do.

When I get back to my hut, there are two men dressed in black. They looked so formal and serious. I know what they want and I tell myself “Here they go again, don’t they know that I won’t give them what the want?” My eyebrows meet in a V. I had to execute all my restraint on my anger as I saw their finely polished shoes and brushed coats. Their exquisite cufflinks gleamed in the sun. I almost gritted my trees at the sight.

I walk into my hut using the back door. I sit on a chair, my stomach facing the back of the chair, my face looking straight at the door. My blood is boiling with hatred, my eyes are glaring. I wish my gaze could burn down the door and the men waiting outside of it. I then think about what I was feeling, it was wrong. All of it was wrong.

I used to do what they do now. I am no robin hood. I am no dark knight. I’m someone seeking redemption for a life that was spent stealing from the poor and rich. I grab the leather bag, my eyes set on having a steadfast resolve. I push open the door and prepare for the inevitable.

“Young Master, your parents want you back home.” The men spoke as soon as they set their sights on me.

“Tell them I’m not coming back to them, unless they learn how to open their hearts to the poor. And I want an apology.”

“They wish us to tell you that they have opened their hearts. Your father apologizes for his actions.”

“Oh really? Now then, why do I not see that?”

“Sir! Come back with us now!”

“No.”

“Then we are sorry to tell you that we are authorized to take you by force.”

“I am still not coming.” Right then and there, I take my clothes off, put them in the bag, turn around, run for the shore and begin swimming. Within moments I am halfway down the way to the island. The angry shouts of the two men were only a buzzing in my ears. By now, the sun was fully free of the horizon and the light had overtaken the entire lake. In no time, I am at the island. I dry myself on the most concealed branch and I put my clothes on. Hey, I still have my dignity you know. Aside from that, I don’t think Elle would appreciate seeing me naked.

It wasn’t long before the boat was speeding across the lake. Soon enough, Elle had taken her place in her usual spot. She looked around, as though she was waiting for someone. I figured it was me. I pulled off another of those dive things. Surprisingly, Elle was still startled.

It was then that I realized how pretty she was. I found myself staring for a long time. Thoughts that came from last night came rushing back. I felt like jelly for that moment that seemed like an eternity. I saw only her and the wind that moved her hair and the sun that hit her face. Only her voice shook me back to reality. “Dave?”

“Oh… umm… Hi Elle!” I said, beaming my biggest, toothiest grin.

“Would you mind doing me a favour?” She said with an innocent look on her face.

“Yes, Elle?”

“Stop dropping out of that tree at the most unexpected moment!”

“O-oh… Okay.” I was still dazed. All thoughts of what happened just recently were washed from my mind.

“So how was your day?”

“Great, just great… It was the typical thing for me… How about you?” I hate lies, but I’m too entranced to actually know that I was lying. Not to mention, everything I was saying was trailing off dreamily. I wouldn’t be surprised if Elle thought that I was acting weirdly.

“Oh… Same here…”

“You know what, Elle?” Finally, some measure of confidence. It took all of my self-control to avoid taking that sigh of relief.

“What?”

“Yesterday was the happiest day I’ve had in years!”

“Me too!”

“Cool!”

“Hey, I brought some lunch, seeing as how you have nothing else but the clothes on your back on you.” With that we began the day together. First we watched the lake in the early morning sun. And then I began to point out clouds that made odd shapes. It was an enjoyable experience, albeit, a peculiar one.

When lunch came around, Elle showed me her picnic basket. We spread it out on the beach of the island. It was a sumptuous feast, well, at least for me. I hadn’t tasted such food for so long already. I felt so comfortable around Elle, but I don’t think that I’m ready to tell her about my parents just yet. But there is something I know I should and could tell her.

“Hey Elle, I have something to say…” Unfortunately, Elle seemed to have been lulled to sleep by the waves. I know I shouldn’t but I lie beside her and put her head on my shoulder. She was even prettier when she was asleep. Her hands on her abdomen and her shoulders moving as she breathed were a sight indeed to behold. Soon enough, I fall asleep, thinking of her.

When I wake, it was already a few hours later. The sun was low over the horizon. Elle was awake; she was looking straight at me. I looked at her my mouth moving wordlessly. My courage was rapidly escaping, but I managed to blurt something out. “Hey… Elle, I have something to say…”

“Yes Dave?”

“I like you, I really, really like you… and that’s all there is to it, period.” As soon as that was out. I had room to breathe easily.

“Hmm… Where did that come from?”

“I dunno, my heart I guess…”

“Well, back to you Dave.” The grin I had on my face at that moment was so big I felt as though my mouth was getting wider. That was when an idea hit me.

“Hey Elle! Let’s carve our initials on the tree!” She was all too happy to oblige. It wasn’t long before she had to go. The shrill call of her whistle was all it took to end our day together. As before I waved frantically at her as she left, but this time, I was blushing furiously.

Before I left the island, I took one last look at the tree. It would stand the test of time; I hope what we have will do so too.

“D+E Forever…”

Then again, I think I shouldn’t have done this. It’s too early, too fast and more importantly too unstable. I pick up a sharp stone from the beach and I look at the initials on the tree. Some things are meant to happen slowly… It was the only thing that was on my mind as I slowly returned to myself.

==**==**==//==**==**==

Well, that was a mouthful. Oh noes, what is Dave going to do? Why am I so hooked on cliffhangers? We may never know.

Here's Chapter 3: Confusion Rules my Life

It All Began and Ended with a Tree

It All Began and Ended with a Tree…
Chapter 1

I sat in front of a mirror, contemplating myself. The sun was filtering in through the open window. The breeze, wafting inside the room, was cool and refreshing. Outside, the sun was shining down on the earth, the skies were blue and the clouds were wispy. It was a beautiful day. And some of the best stories happen on beautiful days.

I looked at myself, my black hair hung by my shoulders. A few strands stuck out in a fray. I was focused on getting myself to look my best. I brushed my hair a little over a hundred times. I then fixed it in a braid and hung it over my shoulder, as I had always done.

“Why can’t I be like those models? All they have to do is sit there and look cute and people absolutely go gaga over them.” The thought entered my mind as I was idly brushing my hair and soon left. I’m just not a model, I guess.

My mom says I’m pretty and my dad just whacks her with his walking stick to say the same. But there are times when I am deathly pale. That’s managed to send my mom into nervous breakdown a couple times, but she’s learning to cope. The village physician says I have a weak Immon--Imune--Imeon… never mind. He says I get sick easily and when I do, I get sick seriously.

My dad, as it happens, is a war veteran, but his knee got ruined in battle. He lost his voice too, some say it was because of smoking. He loves smoking tobacco in the porch at night.

I forgot to mention, my mom, my dad, me and a couple hundred other people live by this lake. It’s not an urban place, but almost everyone has a speedboat. Sadly, my family is one of the exceptions. It can be considered a good thing though, as I’m the only person who will be able to use the speedboat.

My big brother has his own family to take care of, and he has this quarrel going on with dad right now. He used to visit on Sundays to take me out with his wife, but ever since that happened, he’s been out of touch.

So you see, were a good family, sort of. But hey, every family has its flaws. Back to reality, I sit on my wed by the window, one leg folded beside me, the other dangling over the bed’s edge. I take in the cool breeze. I pick up the book I was reading. “Learning the Language of Eld” Okay, I admit, I’m a bookworm. I’m an anti-conformist… and I’m too much of a dreamer. I have no friends in the village, but hey, all you need is a good book… And a sketchpad, to round things up.

For some reason, I’ve recently had the passion to study the Language of Eld. I have no idea why, I just woke up in a cold sweat sometime and BAM! It was there. I know enough words to use in day to day life.

Okay so, what am I doing inside on such a beautiful day? Answer is, I’m waiting for old man Cesar to wake up. Have I mentioned that in the middle of the lake there’s this beautiful tree? It’s so tall and green and the trunk is just so healthy and firm. I love to sit under its branches; it’s so cool and peaceful. But old man Cesar takes a long time to wake up.

Oh wait! There he is! “Old man Cesar!” I shouted from the window. “Oh hey there Elle, going to the tree today?” he shouted back. Oops. I guess I forgot to tell you my name, I’m Elle, nice name huh? But the neighbors next door say that it’s too common a name! “Sure am old man Cesar!” I said to him.

I got down from the bed, got my sketchpad, down the stairs, into the kitchen to get some food and out the front door. On the porch were my parents. I kissed mom and did this weird hi-5 routine with dad that involved my kissing his eye and him banging me on the head with his cane. Oh well, that’s dad, always the joker.

When I got to old man Cesar, he was already waiting down by the dock. To show off what I had learned about the Language of Eld, I exclaimed “Denna kurje firette anthur vion?” Old man Cesar was startled for a moment, and then he began to laugh. He almost fell off the pier! When I asked him what was wrong, he gestured to his boat, while wiping off a tear and said “Gattun” which I took as get on.

He pressed into my hand a silver whistle. I asked him what it was for and he just smiled at me and said. “Whenever you need me, give this thing a blow and I’ll come. Also, I guess you should want to have some way of getting me to go to that tree when you’re ready to go home. Your message in a bottle system is impractical!” I blush a little when he said that.

“Okay young’n, here’s where you get off.” said old man Cesar when we arrived at the island. I got off and thanked old man Cesar for his troubles. I handed him a part of the lunch I had brought. He waved it off, saying no thanks were necessary. Boy, he’s a kind soul, to think I used to think he was this gruff and stern old man.

As usual, I go up the tree and put my palm against its trunk, admiring the beauty. Then I lay down on the same spot that I usually lie down in, a crook formed by two of the biggest roots of the tree. Well, for some reason, it’s only now that I actually brought my sketchpad to the tree. I usually draw in my room or on the porch. But that’s beside the point.

So I get in a comfortable position and I look up. I let my hand and mind take me into the branches of the tree, the subtle shades of green, the grainy texture of the bark. It was a wonderful experience. But when I look down to examine my drawing, there’s something odd, there was the form of a boy, resting on a branch high up on the tree. So I look up again, but there isn’t a boy, so I dismiss him as part of my imagination.

That was when it happened. A boy dropped from the tree, not all the way, I think he was held up by his feet, and faced me. He was fair-skinned; his face had this aura of innocence. His short hair was wavy and was long. He was terribly handsome, and I found myself staring for far too long.

He looked at the drawing and then he looked at me. He asked what was in the drawing, I answered it was him, albeit shakily.

He swung up and then landed beside me. He examined it, and said “You’ve a good hand. Were you the one the fisherman took here?”

I answered “Yeah it was… why do you ask?”

“I saw him snickering on the way back…” the boy, by now had my sketchbook in his hands and was flipping through the pages.

“I think it was something I said. But the only thing I said was ‘Denna kurje firette anthur vion?’ Is that funny?” I was becoming steadily more curious. And I sat down, instead of lying in the space.

“So that’s why. Where did you learn the Language of Eld?” the boy asked. It was apparent that he was fighting laughter. I wondered how come he knew.

“From a book…” I replied. “But I don’t see what that has to do with it…”

“It has everything to do with it. You can’t trust a book when learning that language. Do you know what you said?” The boy raised an eyebrow at me, it made me jittery.

“Goodmorning! May you take me to the island there?” I said slowly, looking up at him.

“Ha! That’s where you’re wrong. What you said was more like Salutations dear sir; wouldst thou take my person to yonder isle? It would have been nice to say, if you were living a few hundred years ago! By the way, I haven’t introduced myself yet… I’m Dave.” The boy held out his hand, I was all too keen to take it.

“Ohh… God!” I blushed when he said what I had said. I couldn’t help but laugh at myself. “I’m Elle.” I continued. “How did you get on this island?”

“Duh! I swam!” Dave told me. I was momentarily confused, if he swam, then wouldn’t his clothes be soaking wet. Anyway, I got over it. The day passed by fleetingly, soon, it was as if we grew up together. But as things would have it, the fun didn’t last, for in what seemed like moments, the sun was already setting. I took the silver whistle and blasted my strongest breath through it. In moments, I saw a boat racing through the waters for the island.

“Thanks old man Cesar” I muttered as I stepped into the boat. It was rocking pretty violently and as we raced through the surf, I looked back and waved at Dave who was waving back at me violently. I sat back down and smiled at myself. I think I even giggled a bit.

Old man Cesar looked at me and he said “This girl looks like she’s seen the man of her dreams…”
“I think so old man Cesar…” was all I could say.

==**==**==//==**==**==

Hey Guys! It seems the story has a cliffhanger. Oh noes!. Well, here ya go; Part 2: Chapter 2

Toothless!

"Dragons breathe fire and carry away our livestock. That's what they do. What we do is make do with what we have, and kill dragons." This is somewhat a commonplace in western and northern myth. It is however, strongly contrasted by the eastern view. Oriental dragons are kind, benevolent, willing to help mankind. In light of this, a movie that flawlessly combines concepts from both worlds is a masterpiece.

In 2010 film "How to Train Your Dragon" Dreamworks set the stage for an adventure of learning. It is an adaptation of a book written in 2003 by Cressida Cowell. It is far from a child's film, if that's what the CG graphics are putting into your minds. It is a story of life and one of the flaws of humankind, prejudice.

It is a cute film with a satirical value to it. However, it cannot be denied that there is a message it wishes to impart upon its viewers.

The film follows the story of Hiccup, the disaster-magnet and teenage ne'er do well son of the chief of the village and Toothless, the dragon that managed to worm its way into Hiccup's heart. As all children of this age, Hiccup is trying to fit into the norms of society. In this case, killing dragons.


As he attempts at doing this, he actually manages to get a dragon in a position where he has the upper hand. However, he sees something, the dragon fears him as much as he fears it. Hiccup soon befriends and eventually, trains the dragon, whom he names Toothless.

As their tale unfolds, they discover a terrible truth. The dragons are not acting of their own accord. Something is controlling them, something horrifying and amazingly powerful. This only strengthens Hiccup's resolve to show the tribe their mistake.


Soon enough, Hiccup is faced with a choice. Keep Toothless a secret, or reveal to the tribe, how mistaken they are. But as events would occur, this just leads to a worse complication. Hiccup is determined, and as in some cases, determination is the only thing we need to make things better.

The musical scoring and graphics are excellent. The music is beautifully made, everything is appropriate. The scoring provides a rustic atmosphere to the film, as is perfectly suited to the underlying theme of vikings and dragons. The graphics are marvelous. Toothless, the dragon is painfully cute. One downside, is, that in the age of modern technology, the characters are similar to each other. But alas, that is of little consequence.


Some might say that this film's story is a run-of-the-mill zero to hero one, they are, sadly, mistaken. The film bears much weight. It teaches us that not all of our enemies are really enemies. They may simply be doing it out of necessity

All in all, a round of applause must be given to Dreamworks for a wonderfully crafted movie. A score of 9.5/10 must be appropriate enough!

An Easter to Remember

It's been a while since I last posted something of the personal kind. It's quite jarring, really. I've been uninspired to write about my life in the past weeks. Although, to write about the lives of fictional characters is a whole other story.

Yesterday was easter. And, quite frankly, I thought it was just going to be one of those days when people would spoil the goings on in life. Well, that happened, on the way home. First off, we went to Festival Mall and attended Mass, after which we watched Clash of the Titans.

I'll give a short review for it. It was, over-all a great movie. The graphical effects were majestic in most aspects. However, for me, the storyline seemed bland. It almost lacked life. Of course, the action scenes kept me on the edge of my seat, but otherwise, the story for me was dull. I guess it may be due to the fact that things happened so fast, had it been expanded a bit more, then it would have been better off. To me, the story just seemed like Greek Myth distorted.

The story went on with such a breakneck pace that there were a few scenes that would seem to have no connection to the plot. Even though the audience might be screaming for a faster pace and they would say that pausing for a moment to think would have no place in a movie such as this one, to my eyes, it's not the case. The side-story of the cult-like people and their leader with a desire to sacrifice Andromeda to sate the Gods is practically flushed down the toilet when Andromeda decides to just sacrifice herself to end it all.

There. Now you heard my rant about the story. On to the events of the day. We ate in Sai-Bachi, a Japanese restaurant. Okay, I'll admit, the family ate in Sai-Bachi. Japanese food has no place in my palate. I just ate fried chicken from McDonald's. Strange huh? Well that's me.

Anyway. The next thing that happened was we went to Cuyab, for the family's annual Easter celebration. It included our close relatives, the Morandos.

First thing we did was paint Easter Eggs. I took a picture of mine, too bad I can't upload it because I don't have the cord for my Cellphone. It was a landscape, took me a half-hour to paint, I believe. But it turned out okay.

And then, I was part of the group that was in charge of hiding the Easter Eggs for the kids. And hoo-ey! it was kinda hard to look for challenging enough hiding places. So, I admit, I didn't see the hunt to its end. Why? Because I ran off to the nearby field where the roosters were. The reason? Read on.

As a child, I never flew a kite, and so, that was my first time. But then, within moments, It was as though I had been doing it all my life. Mind you, let me reiterate, it was my FIRST time. I have no idea what got into me, but I could maneuver the kite, I could pull it out of a dive, the kite didn't even crash when I was using it. Not until my cousins who were flying a kite too crashed into our kite.

The strange thing was, my kite(as well as my 3 years younger cousin Patrick's) was an eagle. For some weird reason, our school's 25th anniversary theme song kept replaying in my head.

Okay so after that we ate. I had to wait for the rice to be cooked. So I sat down with the young'ns and started eating. I asked my younger brother Carlo to get me some water, but then, before it even touched the table, it was already on my pants and in my socks. What a mishap! I told him "Tomorrow you'll wake up in China". Then I had him get me another cup of water as well as a towel. I love using him as a waiter.

After that, I once again tried a hand at watercolor painting. Result? TERRIBLE. Okay, so that was the last thing we did, and then we went home.

So all in all, my Easter really was memorable. And far as I know, a wee bit more than Christmas. So that's it for now guys, if anyone is actually reading this blog, Ciao!