epiphanyblog03

[epiphanyblog03]

Michael Jan Bautista

"Opening the page marks the beginning of a lifetime's adventure." Opening matters help us to achieve our goals and create a meaningful end. As a writer, I need more experience in life. Through my ups and downs, I must get more experience to become a creative writer. Writing will be more meaningful if we relate it in our life.

Lady Hannah Cunanan

Growing up, my interpretation of writing was a school requirement that made my cousins struggle. The main reason why it was not my cup of tea before and I blame my cousins for it because I see them struggling with school work all the time. That's why I despise writing before

At age nine, I was handpicked by our class adviser to be a representative in the upcoming competition, and I didn't have a choice since they were lacking manpower. Since I hated it before, during practices I didn't give my hundred percent attention to it. I will just do the things that my coach told me to do so that I can go home already. As expected, when the competition day came, I lost, and it's fine with me. The next year, I was also handpicked by my adviser to join the competition and lost again. I am totally fine with it and I already told myself at that time that writing was never for me. The next day, I was eleven and it was my last year in elementary school. My coach chose me to be a representative in a Filipino essay competition. I was hesitant at first since I have bad experience in writing competitions—but then I grab the opportunity. I don't know, but during our practice, I started enjoying it. I was adamant to admit it to myself, but I know I am enjoying what I'm doing. Fast forward to the competition day, and I can still remember that our topic is about hardwork. Since there is a time limit, I was a bit pressured since I could see that the other participants had already done it and I had not. So I just focused more and let myself write whatever that I am feeling at that time was. I was not expecting to win because of all the competitions that I had entered. I participated in having a negative result, so when they announced that I won third place, I was shocked and I wasn' t able to react immediately. It was more memorable for me since it happened during my last year in elementary. After that day, that's when I realized that writing is not bad at all.

When I was twelve, this was the time where I was clueless about the things that were happening around me. I was lost. This is the time where I don't know where I belong. And since I am an introvert, it is hard for me to open up to someone just to vent about what I am feeling. I just found myself one day that I was writing what I was feeling at the time and it made me feel good. I don't do it every single day , but it helps me a lot.

Thirteen is the age when I tried to write some stories and poems. But the main reason why I started it was because it was a school requirement for our Filipino subject. I just found myself trying to do a poem or story even if it's not subject required. I wanted to do it because Leot inspired my other friends and classmates. After all, they are good at it.

At fourteen, I was in grade nine back then. This is the time where I got separated from my friends because I was put in a different section. I thought it would be okay at first, but it is not. I had a hard time adjusting because I am not familiar with my classmates. though I was able to adapt to it after a few months. I was assigned as one of the class officers, and it was hard. It is frustrating since I have naughty and reprehensible classmates. They are like kids and I just can't lash out my frustrations with them because I am thinking maybe they are going through something. That is why writing became my friend in grade school because I would always write my frustrations on paper and then burn it all at the end of the school year to start over.

Sixteen is the age where I thought the things that I wouldn't experience would happen to me. Classes were suspended in the last month of my grade ten life due to the virus that was spreading, and we have not been able to come to school for almost two years as a result of this pandemic. For the summer of 2020, I have a lot of plans that didn't happen. My mental health was a mess because I saw on the news every day that the COVID cases in the Philippines were increasing. I was frustrated. At this age, I am supposed to enjoy my life because in a few years I will be facing the reality of life. And during this year, I slowed myself from writing because venting out what I feel through writing is not helping me anymore. Though there are times where I write about how my days are going, it is not as often as it was before and I find no joy in doing it anymore.

This year I started to go to school again after a year-long break from it. I was nervous for the first few weeks since I don't know anyone and my mind is not yet conditioned for some academic things. It feels like a new beginning. Since I stopped writing for a while, it's a bit hard for me to write a written output because my mind is wandering somewhere else, and I panicked when I learned that I have a creative writing subject because I know that I am not a creative person. I am not playful and deep when it comes to words.

But when I started doing all the required outputs for this subject, I felt lightness instead of a burden. Even though sometimes I'm still struggling, I'm enjoying it. Also, because of this subject, I started writing again slowly, since I am not forcing myself. I am trying to apply in my writings the lessons that I've learned on this subject. Writing and I have had a love-hate relationship ever since. My relationship with writing started with hate. There are times when I don't have any creative juices to do it and it gives me frustration. But writing is also my buddy in life. Since I am not a vocal person, it helps me a lot, especially in venting out my emotions. I know that, even though I wouldn't admit it, writing has a huge impact on my life. When everything is in chaos, I always find peace in writing.

Karole Elise Eco

I hated being a mediocre. A girl that’s not good in anything. An average girl that doesn’t like writing, it’s something I really can’t do.

I have tried a lot of things but I am not very good at writing. I struggle to put my thoughts into phrases, find the right words to express how I feel, and explain myself in writing.

But one thing is certain: I tried my best to appreciate it.

To the extent that I attempted it, I tried to love it. I made an effort to become better at it by trying to write poems, read books, increase my vocabulary, and everything else. Simply put, I was unsuccessful, but my love for this craft remains.

I continue to look up terms I don't know, attempt to read books in my spare time, and take every opportunity to learn it. Even my desire to discover a skill that I excel at remains. I make an effort to paint, dance, play badminton, pick up new guitar chords, and even write.

It’s awful to be average at everything, I know, but I am continuing searching something I am really good at because I have faith in my ability to find it. It's okay that way.

Now that I am writing this essay, I had a hard time looking for the right words; but here I am, ending it. It is not that good, I know. But I have reached a point where I understand that even though I am not really good at something, I can still do a lot of things. Even though I am not great at them, I should be grateful that I can do them because some people never even reach the stage where they can.

And I think I have just discovered my area of strength: which is my willingness to attempt anything.

Arshlee Shereen Gabiola

“You can make anything by writing.” A quote from C.S. Lewis. I agree with this remark because I believe you can write about anything. As for myself, I enjoy making up scenarios and stories in my imagination, as well as reading fictitious stories. However, we cannot avoid barriers and issues when writing, so keep reading to find out what I experienced.

I grew interested in stories, and two years ago I attempted to write my own Alternate Universe (AU) story or fan fiction. Reading provides you ideas for what you can write or make; reading plays an important role in composing my stories. I was full of inspiration in the first portion of this piece, and it really motivates me. But I quickly ran into what they dubbed “writers block”, in which I was unable to produce fresh work of suffered a creative halt. I was frustrated and unsure of what to do; I was worried that my effort would be a waste of time and that no one would want to read it. Until now the piece is still on going, and I’m not sure if I’ll be able to finish it because I’ve lost interest in writing that story. But happily, I can still write new stories, and I must continue to improve in order to become a good writer.

Lastly, I may have felt frustration, remorse, disappointment, or despair because I am unable to write anything even when I want to. I am doing my best to create or produce a piece because writing allows you to express your thoughts, construct scenarios that you want to happen or come true, plus write anything you want. Writing brings me both joy and sorrow.

Glezette Garcia My Fabula

Just like other kids, at a young age they learned how to draw different shapes or lines on the wall. And when I was two (2) years old, I also drew lines and shapes on our wall. And the usual, my parents thought that those shapes had meanings and stories, but they did know that it was just my little mind practicing creative things, enjoying making designs. As time went by, I learned how to explore basic colors. That’s why when I was 5, I learned how to – not perfectly – color the characters in the short story books that I had. At the age of 8, I started to write things. That’s why I started to write in slam books or write in my diary, writing stories that happened in my day, especially a tragic scenario that happened to my little heart. Writing things on paper became my habit.

When I entered high school, I just realized that my strength is writing, like writing essays. I’d rather write essays than solve math problems. I enjoyed it when our teachers required us to write poems, stories, or songs. Then when I was in 8th grade, I started to read stories on wattpad app or book and as time passed reading different stories that had different plots, genres, or themes, my imagination expanded. That’s why when I was in 9th grade, I started to write a poem and tried to submit it to our official school publisher, "The Angelian." Hundreds of literary works have been submitted, and they just need to choose a few of them. And I was very surprised that my masterpiece was chosen as one of the literary works for the 6th edition of "ASKE." That opportunity gave me the perseverance to continue to write and engage in literary work, in creative writing. Since I really enjoy literature and writing, I started to write stories in the wattpad app that have different plots and themes when we needed to stay at home because of the pandemic. But as time went by, I lost my passion in writing, so I did not finish stories that I started.

However, when the online class started, my passion for writing returned. Because of the activities related to creative writing, I was enticed again to create stories, poems, or other writing. I gave my best in writing short stories, poetry, or research. Hence, I was consistently the best in Filipino when I was in 10th grade and got - 99 grade - almost perfect. My passion for creative writing motivates me to take the humss strand. And when I became a senior high school, I still got a - 99 grade - almost perfect in the subject "Pagbasa At Pagsusuri Ng Iba't Ibang Teksto Tungo Sa Pananaliksik." My last year as a high school student became more interesting, our creative writing subject molded me to become an even better writer. And as of now, I am really passionate about writing stories, especially stories that are not typical for everyone, and other literary works. For me, in my last year I didn't really do too much literary work, but I am proud of myself that I'm improving as a creative writer. Therefore, I am still looking forward to becoming a director, a successful director and writer.

Maxene Valerie Mandap Effuguim

I opened my eyes in this world, knowing nothing. I can't even speak well enough to communicate my feelings. People in my life continued to give me books as I got older so that I could read and learn new things. I have enough books in my collection to create a little library of my own. Perhaps only for that reason does my mind keep generating original ideas when I work on a literary piece. I developed a passion for writing, especially poetry and creative essays, and there are those who have supported and mentored me as I have explored the various genres of literary works.

When I was six years old, I began reading various novels, and at my former school, where we commemorate first Friday masses, I even began to serve as a lector. I started expressing my opinions more at this point. Writing serves as a diary, a companion to whom I can tell tales, and a conduit for my thoughts when I need someone to hear them. Writing for me at that time is someone who listens to my amusing stories and what is going on in my life. It became my friend, a companion who is attentive to your ideas and tales. I started composing poems when I was nine years old. Poetry writing for various topics is one of the exercises we do in our English class. I developed a passion for poetry at that time period and dreamed of becoming a poet someday. As a way to pass the time when I'm bored, writing has become my hobby. At that time, I even created a "theme" jar where I wrote potential poem topics. Now, whenever I compose a poem, I choose a word from the jar, and that word serves as the topic for the poem I am writing at the moment. I used to love writing so much that it turned into a pastime. I became interested in journalism when I was eleven years old. Ma'am Eunice Cyra Libuna, my mentor, encouraged me to compose editorial articles. I transformed my passion for writing into a skill that I will have when I grow older. During this time, I started joining competitions for journalism. I had the blessings to place regionally in a journalistic competition. Looking back, I find it hard to believe that at that young age, I was able to create a creative work that moved readers and enabled me to advance to the regional level. As I participated in writing competitions at the time, writing evolved into a tool for me to communicate with other writers. I experimented with writing spoken poetry as I turned thirteen. I recalled participating in a spoken poetry competition about the value of language in our nation at that time with my two classmates. With the assistance of some of our class's volunteer writers, we created an exceptional piece. Two of our teachers provided us valuable suggestions as we rehearse our performance and motivated us to work harder during the competition. We were able to win and returned home with pride and joy in our hearts because of the significant influence our performance had on the entire student audience. At the moment, I consider writing to be a talent, as I took great delight in it.

Sir Renz Lacson, our Filipino teacher, assigned us numerous writing exercises regarding composing a "sanaysay" about various subjects when I was fourteen. This has given me access to a completely new world and given me additional opportunities to express myself. As I rode the jeepney to school, I recalled composing a "sanaysay." The atmosphere and soothing sound of the wind gave me the inspiration to write a "sanaysay" about a certain topic. Reading through my writings again, I'm still astounded by how well-organized my ideas were at that young age. Since writing has become my comfort zone at this point, it is a means for me to express myself more. When the pandemic began when I was fifteen, I kept writing poetry. The greatest accomplishment during this period was writing a statement poem in which I discussed the injustices and corruption that occurred throughout the first quarter of the pandemic. Additionally, I created a youtube channel where I upload my compositions. I recall writing poetry anytime I am feeling worn out and depressed. Writing at this time served as my means of escaping the harsh realities of life. Ma'am Bernadette introduced flash fiction when I was sixteen. She obliged us to do a task in which we had to come up with a creative flash fiction. Because of my extensive writing expertise, my exhausted mind was instantly inspired to come up with a unique technique to compose a flash fiction. There are codes in the story that, if read regularly, will have a common plot, but if you notice the codes and read them in that order, there is another plot that the audience will find unexpected. This is the composition I came up with. At that time, writing is a creative endeavor and a passion that sparks inspiration in my head. At the age of seventeen, I can now express myself more since I read literature and keep a journal. I came across a new skill where I turn my creations for poems into songs. I came to see that writing is a talent I possess that I can utilize to touch the hearts of many.

Other people see writing as a complicated thing to do, because we have different ways on how to express our thoughts. But for me, writing is a work of art, a hobby, a friend where I can express myself without judgement. It is an opportunity for me to gain more opportunities in life. It is also a teacher, that teach and inspire me to write more pieces. Overall, writing for me is a work of art, where I can escape the real world for a while, and turn my works into a completely new world where I can express myself, and be fully happy. Writing makes me feel like a child again, without any problems and obligations in life.

Eunice Pangan

My writing journey is not just a walk in the park, just like any other. I have started my journey of creative writing with a humble beginning with basic knowledge in grammar, I started first with short essays and anecdote. The usual genre I do before are comedy and slice of life. This is because it is easier for me to write when I could relate what I’m writing in my life usually, I do these write-ups in school or whenever it is necessary to do so.

Furthermore, as I took on a new and challenging level, I have tried writing short stories. Mostly, I like to write with romantic plots as I have enjoyed in creating characters that would fall in love with each other. This is not an easy task, as although there is short within its name, one should still be meticulous about creating the plot of the story in here, I have realized that it is really important to have a smooth flow of the plot, with that, it is also important to have a proper buil-up of the story in order for the readers to be engaged with what they are reading. In addition, I also learned how to appropriately apply contextual influences such as the culture I have as a Filipino, since the stories I make are usually set during the recent times here in the Philippines.

Although I have a fair share of creating these write-ups, and as much as I have enjoyed writing stories, I believe I still have a long way to go whenever I write, new discoveries were always unlocked. Thus, writing created a space where in my creativity bursts and expands. It indeed gave me an avenue to grow and improve now just with its technicality but also as a person.

Willian Payumo My Journey

Every writer has a distinct and unusual writing process, one that calls for various stages. Personally, I think there are numerous approaches a writer can take in order to produce the desired essay, there isn’t just one strategy to do it.

Even after I’ve done my planning and brainstorming, the writing process may be really irritating for me since I immediately start rewriting my phrases and erasing what I’ve written. This can sometimes make the writing process seem drawn out and tedious and is frequently very frustrating, but by learning and using the various steps of the writing process that are most effective. For me, I will be able to produce well written essays that clearly communicate my intended message to my audience.

I obtain paper and a pen and brainstorm by writing down any thought that occurred to me. I then organize the disorganized ideas into a list of my main points and more comprehensive concepts. For me creating a draft is the first step, making a draft enables me to organize my essay. Since my prewrites serve as a guide for creating a good copy. The hardest step in writing an essay, in my opinion, is to compose a draft because it provides the outline of the subject, and it allows for the thinking process. Once I renew all the words and I’ll make sure the word is correct and I’ll check the grammar. The last thing I make sure to do while reusing is to read my work aloud so that I can hear if there is anything that needs to be changed in my writing that I am unable to see.

Gabriel Simsuangco Boring Origin Story

My journey towards creative writing was a rather uneventful one. Basically, I just found out I had that subject this school year! I most likely would have never taken it seriously if it weren’t graded.  A little honesty to my motives would never hurt, or at least I’d like to think so.

Well, that isn’t completely true. That one time I participated, no I was FORCED to participate in an essay writing competition. This happened last year, and it took a month of preparation for my writing to even be readable! It was difficult at first, but I surely got the hang of it. I also was excused from taking my exams, all of them. It was a double-edged sword, it consumed almost all of my time and most of my essays were affected by my current state of mind, but it was also fun! My journey continues, as I improve my writing skills while still having fun.

Sure, my story isn’t the most interesting one. But all creative writers have different journeys, but what matters is that all writers have the same destination. That destination is the goal of being the best creative writer we could all be.  So, I will wish myself good luck with a big grin, good luck Gabriel Simsuangco!

[epiphanyblog03]

SCENE 1

One of the classrooms at the University of Santo Tomas in 2019. A huge classroom filled with students that has chairs and cabinets at the back. It has a white screen in front along with the platform and teacher’s table.

Celeste (a student who was currently sleeping on her desk then she was woken up by her friend, Eunice, by shaking her whole body) WHAT?! (with irritation in her voice)

Eunice The new theology professor is coming. Fix yourself, Celeste! (give her mirror to Celeste)

(Celeste got the mirror from Eunice, then started to fix her hair. And the tall, handsome, and attractive even in the second glance guy came into the classroom and the reason why the room was filled with whispers)

Eunice OMG! (giggle) Our new teacher is such a dreamboat.

Classmate 1 Ampogi niya pero he looks suplado.

Classmate 2 Crush ko na si sir! (chuckles)

New Professor Class, settle down! (he drops his textbook on the teacher’s table, and as he does this, the classroom falls into silence). Good day, class! (walks around the platform and starts to write his name on the board) I am Mr. Sebastian Montefalco. (he looks at his students with a smile on his face and continues to talk) You can call me Prof. Seb, and I will be your sub professor in theology class for this semester.

(Celeste felt butterflies on her stomach after she heard the professor introduce himself. She observes Sebastian, who is writing something on the board)

Eunice (she brushes against Celeste with a smug face) He can see you staring, you know (while laughing). Someone’s got a crush (with a teasing voice)

Celeste WHAT!? shut up, as if! (rolled her eyes)

Eunice Whatever, Miss Salvador (smirk)

(The bell rang, and the class went on for a long time, but Celeste felt that it was a short meeting because she could not focus on the discussion. Since her attention was swayed by Sebastian)

Sebastian Okay, class (closed his book) let’s call it a day (he went to the teacher’s table and started to fix his things). Thank you and see you all next meeting (walk out of the room) (Eunice and Celeste packed their things and walk out of the room and continue to talk)

Eunice But girl! (look Celestine and started to talk) I admit that Prof. Seb was really handsome, and he knew a lot about theology.

Celeste (trying hard not to smile) hmmm…yeah? He’s uhm…handsome. (Eunice started to tease Celeste again until they had to part ways and go to their respective homes)

SCENE 2

(A cold afternoon in the Saint Gabriel Building, where the University Chapel and the office of the Chaplain Priest are located)

(Celeste is walking in the hallway of Saint Gabriel Building going to the office of the university chaplain priest)

(When Celeste reached the office, she opened the door and was supposed to go inside, but she stopped suddenly and became shocked at the person sitting inside the office)

Sebastian (remove his attention to his phone and look at the person in the door) Ohh…(thinking while his eyebrows stuck together) you a-a- are MISS SALVADOR! (high tone voice) right? (with normal voice while smiling)

(Celeste was just looking at him and nodded with a smile in response to his question. She walked inside and sat on the chair that was beside the chaplain’s office table and in front of Sebastian)

(Sebastian was about to question Celeste but the Chaplain Priest entered the office while holding a cup of coffee)

Chaplain Priest Good afternoon, Brother Seb and Miss Salvador (with a smile on his face)

(The two did the honoring gesture mano. And Celeste has a confused face after she heard that the chaplain priest called Sebastian a "brother". While Sebastian has a full smile on his face after he saw the priest)

Chaplain Priest (he put the coffee on the table and sat on his chair) There will be a youth camp and our school will be hosting it. (glances at Celeste with a smile) Since you are the campus youth leader, you are automatically the head of this event. (he looks at Sebastian) While Brother Seb will guide you–

Celeste Father, you mean, y–ou…ME? (her cheeks become red and her eyes became big)

(The priest laughs after he heard what Celeste said and Sebastian look Celestine with smirk)

Chaplain Priest Not specifically you, Ms. Salvador, (a smile on his face) but the youths, (and spelled the word youth) Y-O-U-T-H. (Sebastian has smile on his face while Celeste become silent)

Chaplain Priest Ohh! I know you guys are busy, I think we can call it a day.

(with a genuinely smile on his face)

(Sebastian and Celeste has smile also on their face)

Chaplain Priest Well that’s all I asked for the both of you (he stood up and the two also stood up and walked towards the door). After all, (he holds the doorknob) Ms. Salvador is well-known as a competent leader in our school and same goes with Brother Seb. (Both of them said goodbyes to the priest and proceeded to walk out of the room together, chatting along the way. When they reached the faculty, Sebastian stopped before he enters the room)

Sebastian (he looks Celeste with an innocent smile) We need to get this done effectively, so I hope that we could be more comfortable with each other. We are partners after all.

Celeste (she became red again and can’t respond properly) ahm…uhm…sir c-c-c-lose? (with a silent voice)

Sebastian But only in situations outside the classroom (genuinely laughs). Anyway, see you soon, Celeste. (he looks at his watch)

I have a couple of works due.

(Sebastian raised his arm and formed a fist bump and looked at Celeste. Celeste didn’t know how to react and she just looked at Sebastian. But she immediately came to her senses and awkwardlydid the same thing)

SCENE 3

(2 months later. Inside and outside of the University Chapel are filled with Tomasians and non-Tomasians. The sunny morning did not become a hindrance to the attendees to enjoy the event. The atmosphere seems like there’s a feast because of the colorful designs and people wearing smiles on their faces while roaming around the place)

(Celeste is standing in front of the door of the chapel to greet people and Sebastian walking towards in her direction)

Sebastian (stopped in front of Celeste) Good job, Celeste (happy tone voice). You really did make this event plausible.

Celeste (she blushed after she heard what Sebastian said) Thank you, Prof (making cute face). It is my pleasure that this event became successful so far (with a confident voice). And this won’t be possible without your help (giving a smile to Sebastian)

Sebastian (his dimples shown since he smiles genuinely) There are so many people here ahh. (roam his eyes) I’m glad the entrance and the facilities are well managed (while nodding)

Celeste Well…I am really thankful for also for all of our volunteers,(staring Sebastian with a smile on her face) they really did a great j–

Nathan SELIS! (running towards Celeste)

(The attention of the two was swayed by the voice they heard from afar. They looked around and saw the guy running in their direction)

(Goosebumps spread all over Celeste’s skin as she saw the tall and seems like a showbiz industry man approaching her, he is Nathan, Nathan Franco, her ex)

Nathan (stopped in front of Celeste and Sebastian while catching his breath) It is……nice to s-s-ee you here! (stand straight)

Celeste (looks Nathan with an awkward face) Ohh! I did not expect to see you here (fake laugh)

Nathan Of course, as a Knight Commander, I should be present in this event (with a confident voice). Especially headed by you (look Celeste with a lovely eyes)

Celeste Ah, I see (nodding awkwardly)

(Sebastian was just looking and listening to them talking. And Celeste noticed Sebastian looking at them with an unreadable face)

Celeste Ahh by the way (looks Sebastian) this is Professor Sebastian, he is foreseeing this event (says using a lovely voice). Sir, this is Nathan (pointed Nathan), my friend (awkward tone and fake laugh)

Nathan Really Celeste? (his eyebrows stuck together with the confusing face) My friend? Let me re-introduce myself, (he look Sebastian) Professor Sebastian, I am Nathan Franco, Chief Commander of the Knights of the Blessed Sacrament,(confident tone) and Celeste’s ex-boyfriend (with a teasing smile and held out his hand waiting for a handshake)

(Sebastian did go for the offered handshake and looked at Celeste with a no choice look. After that, Nathan says his goodbye to the two because his fellow knights are calling him)

Sebastian (looks at Celeste while having a teasing look) He still likes you ahh.

(Celeste was supposed to say something but Sebastian had a phone call. He moved slightly away from Celeste and answered the call while smiling)

(Celeste was curious who called Sebastian because he smiled after he saw who was calling. That’s why she purposely listened to them) Sebastian is on call

Sebastian Hello, baby? (gently voice)

(Sebastian continued to have a conversation on the phone while Celeste silently moved away from Sebastian because of what she heard. She stopped greeting people and seemed to have lost in her sense)

(5 minutes later, Sebastian said goodbye on the phone call and went to Celeste's direction)

Sebastian (confused after he saw Celeste's face) What happened to you? (Celeste still lost in her sense that’s why Sebastian put his hand in front of her face and waved it. After few seconds of doing that, Celeste finally gains her sense)

Celeste (she looks at Sebastian) Ahh…uhm…nothing s-sir. I’m just staring the light coming from the sun, ganda ohh (pointing out the sun while faking her laugh)

Sebastian (he laughs softly) You look like my niece, the one who called me earlier. (he looks at his watch) Ohh Celeste, I have to go.

(worrying)Tambak papers ehh.

(Celeste nodded in response to him. He walks away going to the faculty and Celeste focused on what she is doing wearing a kilig awra on her face)

SCENE 4 (The room was filled with a loud noise after the bell rang. It is a sign that the last subject for the day was finished. Celeste and Eunice did not move from where they were sitting because they were waiting for their classmates to leave the classroom)

(Few minutes of waiting, they became alone, and a woman with an average height, wearing a polo shirt with the logo of the student council and fitted jeans with white shoes, entered the room)

Woman (walks going in the direction of the two girls) Hey beshis! (greeted them in a loud voice) It’s been a while (making sad face)

Eunice & Celeste LUISA! (they hug Luisa when she get closer to them)

(The three girls seated on the chairs and form a circle)

Celeste (looks at the face of Luisa) How to be you, ysa? (making a sad face)

Luisa Huh? What do you mean? (confuse on her face) We just met ahh, dino-dog show mo na naman ata ako? (suspicious look to Celeste) Bahala ka, I won’t say my chika about this prof (killer smile while looking the two)

Eunice Heh! What she wanted to ask is that, how can you manage to be pretty while being one of the candidates as magna cum laude and university president of the student council? (she looks at Luisa and snobs her) Like duhh? (raised her should then laugh)

Luisa Well (flipped her hair), naaalagaan eh (confident voice and fix her hair) (They laugh together)

Celeste (she stops laughing and looks at Luisa) What’s your chika pala, ysa?

Luisa Ahh!(she seated properly and became serious while looking at the two) so there’s a new sub professor in your department… (Celeste and Eunice automatically look to each other)

Luisa …and I guess both of you know him as well since he is already

famous in our campus (a voice like detective)

Eunice Yes (suspicious voice), mahal na nga ata ni Celeste (devil

laugh)

Celeste (she was shocked) WHAT THE! (she supposed to grab Eunice, but Luisa stopped her)

Luisa Single (confident voice). Don’t worry I will help you to get him after we graduated (she looks Celeste with assurance on her face)

Eunice I’m in (while nodding). You’re pretty, Celeste. Remember……you turned down many guys (smirk) because nasa iyo na ang lahat (singing tone)

Luisa (agreeing to Eunice) But the first thing you need to do is……(looks at Celeste with a serious face) to admit your feelings to him (a gently smile on her face)

Celeste (she stood up) NO! Me? Celeste?….Will confess to a Pro–o-ffe WAHHH! (shook her head and put both hands to her hips) NO!

Luisa Wow (while looking at Celeste) where’s the Celeste we used to know?

(Luisa and Eunice look each other with disappointment in their faces)

Luisa The girl who will DO everything just to GET what she wants (raised her shoulders and look Eunice again)

Eunice (raised her shoulders also and suddenly look at the window of the room) And speaking of……here he comes (looks Celeste) (Eunice and Luisa pushed Celeste out of the room)

Luisa & Eunice (whisper) Go (raised her hand as a sign of fighting) (Celeste left the room and called Sebastian who was passing by in their classroom. Sebastian stopped, he look back and raised her eyebrows to Celeste as if he is questioning her)

Celeste (walks to get more close to Sebastian)uhm……I h-have to say so-o- omething, sir (trembled voice)

Sebastian Ahh! (nodded) about our lesson? (while smiling) I’m going to the chapel, if you want to tell that to me while walking. (Sebastian and Celeste started to walk in the hallway going to the chapel. And when they reached their destination, they entered in the chapel and seated in the last row)

Sebastian (looks at Celeste) So, what do you want to tell me? (he smile when Celeste also look at him)

Celeste Do you have a favorite bible verse, sir? (a confident tone)

Sebastian Yes, (nodded) I do have. Why? (still looking at Celeste)

Celeste (she bite her lips and started to feel shy) Because right now, I have a new favorite bible verse……from John (smile confidently again)

Sebastian (nodded) What is it?

Celeste John chapter 13 verse 34 (smile while looking to Sebastian) “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another”. U-u-uhm…that’s w-why u-uhm I-i’m here to s-say t-t-that I followed the God’s c-command, to l-l- love y-you (she closed her eyes) I LIKE YOU AND I THINK I ALREADY FELL IN LOVE WITH YOU.

SCENE 5

(The huge campus was loud because of the students. The last semester for the school year was about to end and the graduating students were already given a practice date for their graduation. The rain also came that’s why the aura of the campus become different)

(In a loud classroom because of the noise of the students as well as the raindrops)

Eunice Celeste! The class is already done, do you want to go somewhere?

(facing Celeste and not a serious voice) (Celeste was just looking at the window)

Eunice HUY! (touched Celeste) So you get turned down?

Celeste (faces Eunice) It’s not like he turned me down, he just did not give me an answer (snobs Eunice and look at the window again)

Eunice Bible verse pa (laughing)

Celeste (fake laugh) Whatever!(rolled her eyes) I just need some more time, just like what you’ve said, I am Celeste after all.

(Eunice agreed to what Celeste said)

Eunice Anyway, I have an agenda for today (she fixed her things). Hay inuutusan na naman ako ni Prof. Jeff (carried her bag and look Celeste in her eyes) Cheer up, okay? (touched the back of Celeste)

(Celeste just nodded and lay her head on the desk of her chair. She was about to sleep when she heard a notification from her phone: a message from Luisa)

iMessage Luisa Prof. Seb is in the library. Another chance for yahhh girl. Go! Go! Go!

(She stood up after she read Luisa’s message. She walked to the library, but when she reached the door of the library, she stopped and talked to herself)

Celeste I said I wanted to see Professor Sebastian, right? I do, but not in this way (talking to herself while being confused) (She entered the library; it was quiet and cold, but she felt comfortable in the atmosphere. She looked around to find Sebastian and pretended to get a book. After a few minutes of searching, she finally saw the familiar face.

Celeste Gotchu! (whisper and filled with excitement) Profe- (she was about to come closer to him but she stopped) (When she saw a tall and elegant woman that approached Sebastian, Celeste clenched the book she picked up and stood there to observe the two)

Celeste Who’s this girl? (whispered to herself) He does not have a girlfriend or wife.

(After 5 minutes, the woman was still saying something to Sebastian as if she was asking something, but Sebastian seemed quite uncomfortable with the presence of the woman. The woman sat on the table and tried to flirt with him, but Sebastian avoided her. He was about to leave when the woman grabbed the collar of Sebastian's shirt and started to kiss him) (Celeste didn’t process it immediately, but soon enough, she noticed something was off. Tears were running down her face)

Celeste I don’t get it. Why am I crying? (then she wiped her tears) (She left the library while running before her presence became known to anyone in the room)

Celeste (she talks to herself while running) Who kisses somebody in a library? (then laugh) stupid love!

(After a few minutes of running, she felt tired that's why she stopped and sat on the stairs)

Celeste (wiping her tears) So she is the reason why he did not give me an answer? (sobbing) I hate him! I hate him! (shouting)

SCENE 6

(The graduating students' last day as students. In the classroom, the day was a mixture of sadness and happiness. Graduating students are preparing for their graduation. And the last day of Sebastian in AB-1, section of Celeste)

Sebastian Okay, class! (knock the blackboard) I still have 5 minutes before I dismiss our last meeting. (went to the platform and stood up in front of the class) I wanted to congratulate everyone on your upcoming graduation (gently clap his hands).

(One of the student raised her hand)

Sebastian Yes?

Classmate 1 Sir, will you continue to teach here?

Sebastian (shook his head then smiled) That’s why for those students who want to see or talk to me for the last time you can go to the faculty room. (look at his watch) Okay! It’s time (he started to packed his things)

(The bell rang and Sebastian left the room. Some students stood up and grew something to the ceiling and some started to talk with each other)

Eunice (touched Celeste) Lesteng! Let’s go

Celeste Where? (with irritation on her face)

Eunice (she came closer to Celeste and whispered) To the faculty (raising her eyebrows and has a killer smile)

Celeste I don’t want to see him (serious face)

Eunice (touch the shoulder of Celeste) I got your point, okay? But we both know that this will be the last time we’ll see him.

Celeste (looks at Eunice with a confusing face) Huh? As if he will go somewhere far.

Eunice (laugh) See? You like him yet you don’t know a lot about him.

(Celeste was just looking her and waiting for the next sentence she will say)

Eunice (fix her sit and face Celeste) Listen, Prof. Seb would go back to Italy

Celeste (confused) Italy? What will he do there?

Eunice Because of his real job, I guess? (raised her shoulders) I’m not sure about it, but the one thing I can assure you is that he will come back there as soon as possible.

Celeste (started to have a sad face and voice) Who told you that?

Eunice Prof. Jeff (smile). That’s why I’m telling you now, you should grab this opportunity to say your proper goodbye to him (rubbed the back of Celeste)

Celeste Okay! Just give me some time to think and prepare myself (smile to Eunice)

SCENE 7

(The day that many students waited. The graduation happened at the University Theater, it was filled with students wearing togas and smiles on their faces)

Eunice OMG! BESTIEEE WE HAVE FINALLY GRADUATED!! (she pulled Celeste into a warm embrace, their medals are shining around their necks)

Celeste (hugged Eunice) I’m so proud of us! I can’t believe that we will graduate with flying colors. The breakdowns and stress we’ve shared together are all worth it (was about to cry)

Eunice (looks at Celeste) As well as your heart break (making sad face and laugh)

Celestiana I’m so proud of you, Celeste. You never failed to be a good daughter to me. I could never ask for more (she pulled Celeste into a warm hug as she felt the tears in her eyes slowly dropping)

Celeste Aw……m-mom (making a sad face) you’re making me cry!(she hugged her mother back with watery eyes)

Eunice Okay okay! (raised her two hands) before the drama, let’s take a selfie first with Auntie Celestiana! (The three took a selfie together)

Eunice Yan (while looking at the photos) And after that, we will reveal to Auntie who is the guy -

(Celeste covered the mouth of Eunice using her hand. And while the two were messing around, Professor Jeffrey de Guzman, a friend of Sebastian, approached the three ladies)

Professor Jeffrey Congratulations Ms. Salvador and Ms. Belleza (while smile)

Celeste & Eunice Thank you, Prof. Jeffrey (with a smile on their face)

Eunice Prof, where’s Prof. Seb daw po? (looks at Celeste with teasing

smile)

(Celeste was shocked by what Eunice said. Jeffrey and Celestiana just laugh)

Professor Jeffrey (with a soft tone) Ohh right! (smile) That’s why I am here.

Eunice (hit Celeste’s hip using her hip) Yun oh (teasing voice)

(Celeste snobs Eunice)

Professor Jeffrey May I excuse Celeste for a moment?

(Celestiana and Eunice happily nodded to Professor Jeffrey and continued to take selfies, while Celeste nervously followed Professor Jeff outside the University Theater)

Celeste (faces Jeffrey) Why do you want to talk to me Professor?

Professor Jeffrey Celeste, I don’t know if you already knew the news about Sebastian.

Celeste (confused) Huh? w-what news about h-him? (her heartbeat became faster)A-asan po ba s-s-siya? In the th-theater? (she was supposed to go inside to search for Sebastian, but Jeffrey stopped her)

Professor Jeffrey (sad on his face) So you still don’t know yet (sad tone). He has already gone back to Italy.

(Celeste suddenly felt a rush of sadness despite the overwhelming joy she just felt a while ago)

Celeste (sad tone) Since when?

Professor Jeffrey Yesterday (sad tone). And (grab something from the paper bag he is holding) Sebastian asked me to give you this (he hands out the small pink box to Celeste)

(Celeste took it and her tears started to fell on her cheeks)

Professor Jeffrey (continue to speak) He said that he wanted to give it to you, but he failed until the day he left. Since you avoided him starting the day you saw him with her ex in the library.

Celeste (looks at Jeffrey and wipes her tears) His ex?

Professor Jeffrey (nodded) That day his ex begged him to go back to her. But Sebastian refused since he is already engaged.

Celeste (tries to control her tears) So he went back to Italy because he is engaged with someone?

Professor Jeffrey (nodded) Exactly, but he is not just engaged with someone, (looks Celeste with a smile) he is engaged with God. (Celeste can’t easily process what Jeffrey said)

Professor Jeffrey (continue to speak) Before he went here in the Philippines, he was already a Reverend, he taught your batch as part of his formation. (smile) And now he has returned to Italy to be ordained as a priest.

(Celeste’s questions in mind are left answered by that statement, Professor Sebastian did not accommodate her love because he is already taken by God, and why did he not tell her?)

Celeste (trying to stop her tears) That's good news, Sir! (nooeded and trying hard to smile).

Professor Jeffrey I will now leave you, Celeste. Again, Congratulations! (touches the should of Celeste and walks away to joined his colleagues) (Celeste looks at the pink box she is holding. She opened it and saw a bracelet rosary made with gold beads and has an initial, letter "C" on the last beads)

Celeste (cry again) Until we meet again, Reverend Father Sebastian Montefalco (she whispered in the air while sobbing)

SCENE 1 SEQUENCE 1 In the Art Museum

Setting: Esvie & Mia’s first encounter in an Art Museum owned by their friend named Alyssa Stinson. April 30,2020. (Esvie Mosby / Mia Murphy)

(Mia Murphy wandering around the corridor where the art paintings were hanging.)

Esvie: “Is it beautiful?”

(Mia was still looking at the painting and didn’t mind Esvie’s presence.)

“You’re not gonna talk to me, aren’t you?” (She crossed her arms and let out a heavy sigh)

Mia: (Mia faced Esvie while her brows are now furrowed) “What do you want from me? I thought you hated me?”

Esvie: (Esvie didn’t hide the amusement in her face, and she starts smiling as if Mia isn’t mad)

“Well yeah, I did hate you.” (She stops talking and lifts her hand to prod Mia’s shoulder. Trying to mock her.) “But it only lasted for a minute.”

Mia: (She tried to calm herself by fishing her bag to find her putty and when it’s already in her hand she starts squeezing it hard.) “If you’re here trying to mock me or ruin my day, just go.”

Esvie: “That painting,” (she ran her finger across the painting that Mia was looking at earlier.)

“That is my painting.” (Her smile widened when she back her eyes to Mia)

Mia: “What do you really want, Esvie?”

(Her voice started to tremble out of anger and sadness. Tears were about to burst on the shore. She turns around to wipe the tears that are now falling in her cheeks.)

Esvie: “Hey, I’m sorry I just thought that we’re good now, you know?” (Esvie lowered her head, and she started rubbing her nails using her fingertips. That’s what she usually does every-time she has a panic attack.)

“I guess I will let myself leave now, I am so sorry Mia.” (Esvie finally got herself out when Mia didn’t bother to respond to her. She uses her hands to tickle her hair behind her ear as she walks downstairs.)

Mia: (Mia is still standing where Esvie left her. She lay herself down to sit on the floor while still trying to calm herself. People that are passing by around her start paying attention to her. She grabs her hair as she wipes the tears flowing down on her cheeks.)

The whole place went quiet, and the music started playing as her tears still dropped. Every beat is equivalent to every second she tries to wipe her tears.

‘Your Midas touch on the Chevy door November flush and your flannel cure "This dorm was once a madhouse"

I made a joke, "Well, it's made for me" How evergreen, our group of friends Don't think we'll say that word again And soon they'll have the nerve to deck the halls That we once walked through’

Champagne Problems / T. S

SEQUENCE 2 In The Art Museum (Year 2023) April 30

“Welcome to the Stinson’s Museum!”

(2 guards that are in the entrance door welcomed Mia with a smile on their face.)

Mia: “It’s been 3 years since the last time I went here.”

(She said while spinning her car keys on her left hand. She walks pass by the two guards and went inside of the museum while still looking at the beautiful ambience)

‘God Ysa, I wish you were here too. Walking with me as we admire your museum.’ Mia mumbled as she was still walking.

“Do you know when she will be coming back here?”

(A stranger that is holding a camera approaches her, talking about Alyssa.)

(Mia faced the guy that caught her attention and smiled at him.) “I think in a few months, you know London is a great country. If it was me, I would never be going back here in Canada.” She spoke. (They both shared a laugh while still facing each other.)

“So, it’s nice meeting you, Adriel.”

(Mia lifts her left hands to handshake Adriel and they both wave to each other. Saying their goodbyes.)

Esvie: “Well well, look who decided to show up here. Again.” (Esvie initiated to speak up as soon as she saw Mia seated on the rocking chair. She drops her bag in front of Mia to get her attention.)

Mia: (Mia sigh and rolled her eyes as she heard Esvie speaking) “Oh, you’ve gotta be kidding me now.” She mumbled to herself.

Esvie: (Esvie just bursts out and smirks when Mia starts looking at her. They were now looking at each other.)

“Miss me?”

Mia: (She laughed and shook her head with disbelief to what Esvie just blurted out now. She stands as she was about to throw her another sarcastic word.) “Get over yourself, Mosby.”

Esvie: “You look so much better now.”

(She said while she tilts her head to observe Mia’s overall look) “How are you? It’s been 3 years, there must be something new in your life now.”

Esvie adds while she grabs her bag on the floor where she dropped it earlier.

Mia: “Yeah, I am still writing. I have this novel entitled ‘IRIS’.”

(Esvie replied with a big smile drawn around her face, she started walking to grab 2 glasses of champagne.)

Esvie: “Why thank you.” (She holds the champagne that Mia gave to her.) “I am happy for you; you know I hope I could read it sometime; you are a good writer, Mia.”

(Mia just smiled at her and continued drinking her champagne. They both smiled at each other.)

Esvie: “Always. I am proud of you, always.”

SCENE 2 SEQUENCE 1 In The Art Museum (Year 2023)

Setting: Alyssa Stinson (Mia and Esvie’s friends came back from London. Alyssa and Mia decided to meet at the museum that Alyssa owned. (Year 2023 May 17) (Mia Murphy / Esvie Mosby / Alyssa Stinson)

Mia: “Look at you! You’re now taller than me!”

(Mia hurriedly gave Ysa a hug. The smile around her face didn’t fade as she saw her best friend)

Alyssa: (She first dropped her two bags and let Mia hug her.) “Let’s go to my office, you’ve gotta spare me a lot of stories!” (Alyssa grabbed Mia’s hand and went to her museum office, when they both arrived at the office Alyssa opened a champagne and gave to Mia the other glass.)

Mia: (She took a sip on her champagne and smiled as she began to speak.) “Guess who I just saw?”

(Smirk was drawn on her face with excitement.)

Alyssa: “Go on, tell me.”

Mia: “It’s Esvie.”

(After I drop Esvie’s name, Ysa’s smile suddenly fades away, so I hand my champagne on the table around us and wait for her to respond.)

Alyssa: “What do you mean? Esvie?”

(She couldn’t hide the confusion in her face as she stood and faced Mia.)

(Mia fakes a laugh as she repeats herself.)

Mia: “Yes honey. It’s Esvie. Esvie Mosby, my ex? You know?”

Alyssa: “No.”

Mia: “What, no?”

Alyssa: “No babe you did not see her. That’s impossible.”

Mia: “Come on, of course I can see her? Small world and she does paint, and this are a museum. Your museum.”

Alyssa: “Esvie is dead.”

Mia: “You’re joking right?” (Mia laughed and shook her head.)

Alyssa: “I was going to tell you, but I couldn’t reach you after that day. You two were suffering from the scars that were left from your past.”

Mia: “Enough. I’ve heard enough. I don’t like this kind of joke.”

Alyssa: “I wish I was joking honey. But I’m not, she committed suicide 3 years ago, after the day you saw her in this museum. She couldn’t handle the pain…”

(Mia stood up to digest the words that Alyssa had said. She fishes her bag to find her putty so that she can calm herself and think straight.)

A few more minutes and the room went all too quiet. The heavy breathing of Alyssa and Mia are the only sounds that can be heard. Mia grabbed her hair as she sat on the table and was about to burst her tears.

Mia: (She let out a sigh and start laughing and crying)

“Am I crazy?”

“Did I just fabricate a dead person into thinking that she was still alive because God knows how much I miss her every single day.” (Her voice weighed with a lot of emotions; she was hurting.)

Alyssa: “No. You’re not crazy. You were just hurting and that is normal love.” (She sat beside Mia while she rubs her back to comfort her.)

SEQUENCE 2 MEMORIES FROM THE PAST (YEAR 2016)

Flashback of the story to how it all started.

July 17,2016 MIA MURPHY’S POV

I closed my eyes when the memories started flashing back on my brain. I ran my fingers across my neck on the left side where the tattoo was drawn, I caressed it using my fingertips and before I knew it my eyes were starting to get hot; tears were ready to burst out of the shore in any minute now.

“Hey, stop!” We both laughed when the tea spilled all around the floor.

Esvie: “Come here,” Esvie speaks. She grabbed the pillow beside her and tapped it using her hands.

“Come here, let me hug you.” she continued. I scurry myself to lay down on the bed beside her and let her hug me.

Mia: “Aren’t you afraid of me?” I asked as I was looking at her.

Esvie: “Why would I?” her brows furrowed.

Mia: “You know, even though my psychiatrist doesn’t work it out to me, I know to myself that there’s something wrong inside me. It feels like I don’t belong in this world.”

I couldn’t hide the sadness in my voice, so I decided to shut my eyes.

Esvie: “Well, if that’s the case, let’s go somewhere where you think you belong. Because honestly? It feels right just to be with you everywhere.”

Esvie caressed my chin using her fingertips and gave me a peck kiss.

I didn’t hide the smile on my face, and I started kissing her back.

“Let’s sleep now.” I speak.

SEQUENCE 3 MEMORIES FROM THE PAST (YEAR 2019) The breaking point. June 14, 2019

ESVIE MOSBY’S POV

“I don’t understand.” Mia said, the room was full of her crying. “I don’t love you anymore.” I answered. I tried my best to hide the pain that smashed my heart everytime I spoke. I don’t want her to know how much I am hurting.

“Why do you wanna break up with me? Give me something.” She stuttered while still wiping her tears.

“I want to have a child, Mia. This thing between us? It’s just temporary. Because at the end of the day I do want to have my own family.”

Mia: “Am I not family to you?”

Her question stabbed me right inside my chest.

“I want kids that will take care of me when I’m old.”

I spoke.

She didn’t say anything, instead she just sat and let herself cry the moment I dropped those words to her. I know how much it hurts her, but

I just want what’s best for her.

I love her more than anything in this world. And all that I just said was a lie. Both of our parents want us to have a good family. A child. I couldn’t say no to her parents because I respect them like how I respect Mia. And I know that she is still longing to have her own family of her own. She loves kids, things that I couldn’t give her.

SCENE 3 SEQUENCE 1 (YEAR 2023) In The Art Museum

Setting: Mia discovered that she has remaining memories and letters from Esvie.

Alyssa: (She went to open the box on the top of her office drawer and handed a bunch of letters to Mia that were written by Esvie. She sat as she opened the box and waited for Mia to read it.)

I should have given you all those letters when she was still alive. I am sorry.

Mia: I don’t think I can read them. Not now. (She said and started crying again.)

Alyssa: It takes time. I understand, but you can keep it until you’ve decided to open them.

Mia: Yeah, I suppose.

Alyssa: I am so sorry honey. I know it must be so hard for you to digest all of this now, but you don’t have to worry because I am not going to leave you.

(Alyssa wipes Mia’s tears as she starts caressing her cheeks.)

Alyssa and Mia are left alone still grieving about the fact that Esvie is dead.

SEQUENCE 2 (YEAR 2023) The Letters

IRIS by Goo Goo Dolls

It’s been 3 weeks since Mia had known the fact that her ex-lover passed away. It was hard for her to forget all the beautiful memories that they both shared.

(Mia grabbed the last bottle of tequila and suits herself to cry herself to death.)

Mia: You didn’t have to kill yourself; you know?

(She said while staring at the letters from the box on the top of her table.)

She wiped her tears and started looking for those letters one by one

To Mia,

I love how observant I am when I am in love. I love that I remember every little detail about your favorites, hobbies, and different stuff.

In this world full of madness, I only find myself happy When I am with you, Mia.

You were made of peaches and strawberries. Sweet and lovely.

I looked at your eyes and all I could see was love, home, and peace.

I never thought about loving someone new ever again until I saw the glimpse of your smile, the sparks from your eyes and the voice that sounds like music to everyone’s ears.

The day that we’re together the best day of my life. We held each other’s hands and just goofed around. You were the reason why I helped myself to be better again. It’s been so long since the last time I tasted the happiness I am getting from myself. It was astonishingly sweet and tasty, just like your love to me.

You are the tea that calmed me, The coffee that wakes.

And mostly you are the sugar that makes me happy.

I Promise that I will never do you any harm. I will always protect you and love you for every day that we have.

You are the sweetest thing that ever happened to me and perhaps you are the miracle that happened in my life.

You’ve given me so much hope and love for the past years and I couldn’t thank you enough for that. But as a return I will not do anything that will hurt your heart and break your soul for you do not deserve to be treated that way.

You are my love, my home, and my peace.

-Esvie.

(Mia dropped the paper that she was reading and continued to cry. The tears were hard to stop. She tried to calm herself by squeezing her putty. But it failed her. The pain is consuming her energy as she stares at those letters. She grabbed the box where the other letters are and started caressing it using her fingertips.)

She was left with so much pain, and questions.

Mia: You once proved to me that life isn’t worth living without the presence of your love. How am I supposed to live miserable everyday asking myself why this is happening to me. (She stammers while still wiping her tears.)

SCENE 1 SEQUENCE 1:

Setting: Adair Village (Everyone in this village works for the Adair family including Chan’s father who is their gardener.)

Chan David (A farmer helping his father to provide for their family) I don’t think we have the money for father’s medication, Celest. (Chan bowed his head due to frustration. Celest caressed his back to ease his feelings)

Celestine Pring (Childhood friend of Chan. Sitting on a bench with Chan.) We can ask for help. I’m willing to help you with anything, Chan. (She smiled, convincing Chan to accept her help.) He’ll get better, Chan. We’ll do everything to help him. (She went up to hug him.)

Chan (Chan hugged Celestine back, he couldn’t hold his tears back anymore. He felt Celest hug became tighter when Celest felt his shoulder shake.) I can’t lose my father, Celest. I can’t take good care of my family; I can’t provide enough. (He cried even harder on her shoulders.)

Celestine (She can feel her tears approaching as well but she can’t cry, not right now that Chan needs her strong.) Hey, don’t think like that. (She broke their hug then held Chan’s crying face and wiped his tears.) You won’t lose him, okay? He’ll get better, we’ll make sure of that.

(She hugged him again.)

Chan (He felt okay with Celestine’s words. He broke their hug then faced Celestine.) Thank you. I really needed to hear those.

SEQUENCE 2 (Celestine and Chan started walking to ask for help for his father who’s suffering from cancer.)

Chan (They knocked on the first door which immediately opened, he’s nervous but determined to get help for his father.) Good afternoon, we’re sorry to bother you. We’re here to ask for help, my father is sick and we couldn’t afford to pay his medications. (The neighbor looked at him in awe. She wanted to help him but they don’t have money to give.)

Neighbor 1 As much as I want to help you, I don’t have money as well and I have family to feed. I’m sorry. (She closed the door.)

Celestine (She saw how Chan’s face turned down, she felt sorry for Chan) Hey, this is just one house. We have many to go, don’t lose hope yet, okay? (She tried to comfort him but even her is losing hope already as she knows that they all have the same situation. They all suffer from poverty and the Adair are their only way to live every day.) (They went to the second house, both of them are hoping to get help.) Hi, we’re sorry to bother you. I’m Celestine and this is Chan, his father is sick and we’re here to ask for help. (She gave a smile. Really eager to help Chan provide for his father.)

Neighbor 2 (Shuts door loudly.) Next time don’t bother people for your stupid scams! Work and then you’ll have money! (Celest flinched hard and Chan was stunned with the attitude but he immediately regains himself to hug Celest as he saw how she was affected with their neighbor’s action.)

Chan (Worry was evident on his face.) Hey, are you okay?

Celestine (Celestine went back to her senses and faced Chan. She tried to act okay as she knows how worried Chan is.) Yes, don’t worry. Let’s continue? (She smiled trying to show Chan that she’s okay now.)

(Chan and Celestine proceeded to ask for help but they received nothing. They went home devastated, Chan sat down and Celest sat beside him.)

Sequence 3

(Chan’s mother sat beside Chan as well with soup on her hand for Celest and Chan. They both accepted the soup and said thank you.)

Leriza (Chan’s Mother) (Fidgeting her fingers, hesitant to say her idea.) W-what if we ask Ma’am Athena for help?

Chan (Stopped sipping his soup and look at her mother.) That’s impossible, Mom. (He said but still considering on doing her mom’s idea.)

Celestine (Also stopped sipping her soup then faced Chan.) Do you want to give it a shot, Chan? There’s no harm in trying.

(Trying to convince Chan.)

Chan (With Celestine’s eagerness, he decided to give it a try.) Okay, but we’ll do it tomorrow. You should rest first, okay?

(Celestine shook her head agreeing to what Chan said)

SCENE 2:

(Celestine and Chan are in front of Adair’s mansion.)

Celestine Are you ready? (Caressing Chan’s back.)

Chan (His hands are shaking but he just nodded to Celestine. Celestine was the one who rang the doorbell. Few seconds passed the peephole was opened by a guard.)

Guard 1 (He scanned both of them, eyeing them from head to toe.)

Yes? (Eyebrows raised.)

Celestine (Smiling and in her jolly mood to lighten the air between them.) Hi! Is there a chance that we can talk to the Adair?

Guard 1 No. (Shuts down the peephole.)

Celestine (Her smile dropped then knocked again. The guard opened the peephole again.) Please, we really just need to talk to them. His father is sick (pointed at Chan) and if you won’t let us talk to them, it’s going to be your fault if something happens to his father.

Chan (He went close to Celestine and whispered on her ears.) That’s guilt tripping. (Celestine just did a ‘shush’ pose.)

(The Guard considered what Celestine said then opened the gate for the. The two became excited but they kept their posture.)

Celestine (Raised her fist and did a fist bump with Chan.) Are you ready?

Chan (He wiped his hands then nodded.) Nervous but yeah, I’m ready.

SEQUENCE 4

Athena Adair (She rushed on their door when she heard a rang from it. Shocked when she saw two people of her age and their guard in front of her. She then introduced herself in joyful tone and a smile on her face.) Hi! I’m Athena Adair. (She extended her hand to the both of them but her eyes were tied to Chan, still busy examining him.)

Celestine (She shook Athena’s hand then introduced herself and Chan.) I’m Celestine Pring and he’s Chan David. (She pointed at him.) Our parents work for you and your family.

Chan (Extended his hand to shake Athena’s hand.) It’s good to meet you, ma’am. We’re here to talk to your parents.

Athena (She wasn’t shock with their reason; she’s used to it.) Oh, my parents are not here but I’m available to talk. I can address your concerns to them. (She led them to their couch.)

(Chan and Celestine took their seats.)

Chan (Still stunned with Athena’s beauty but she can’t focus with that thing right now.) Your parents know my father, ma’am. He’s your gardener, he’s sick right now and we need your help with his medications.

Celestine We also did our best to ask for everyone’s help in here but we got nothing. (She faced down.)

Athena (Her face was in shock with what she heard.) Okay, I’ll try my best to help. I’ll talk to my mother about this.

SEQUENCE 5

Athena (Knocks on door) Mom? Are you awake? (Nervous but determined to talk to her mother.)

Athena’s Mother (Stopped with fixing her hair then proceeded to open the door. Athena then entered their room.) Yes, love? (Athena’s hand we’re fidgeting which she finds weird.)

Athena (She fixed herself. Sat comfortably and stopped fidgeting her fingers.) I talked to these people, they seemed nice and genuine. (Her mother’s brow raised.) I know you’ll say they’re just using me but hear me out, okay? (Releases deep breathe.) His father is sick which is our gardener, I know his father, he’s kind and delicate with his work. And… (paused for a second) I want us to help them, Mom.

Athena’s Mother (Her answer was firm and final.) No. They’re not our problem, Athena. Just like what you said, (Held her daughters chin to face her better.) they’re just using you; they’re abusing your kindness. (Athena’s Father entered the room.)

Athena (Faced his father.) Dad, help me help our gardener, please. (Faced her mother.) I can talk to Chan. I can tell him he can work for us in exchange with helping his father. (Biting her lips, hoping for an approval.)

Athena’s Mother (Releases a deep sigh.) This is the last time, love, okay? (Stood up to hug Athena. She can’t keep her decision specially that Athena’s the one requesting.)

Athena (Her face lit up and releases a sigh.) Thank you, Mom.

(She hugged her back.)

SCENE 3

Guard 1 (Knocks on door and was welcomed by Chan.) The young Adair sent me. (Handed the letter to Chan.)

Chan (Opened the letter.) Miss Athena? (Tilt his head due to confusion. The Guard just nodded.)

Guard 1 She told me that she’ll wait for your response. If you’re ready then go to the mansion. (He left the house.) (Celestine entered Chan’s house, saw the Guard and got confuse but she didn’t ask questions anymore.)

Chan (Chan read the letter.) They want me to work for them.

(Talking to Celestine.)

Celestine (Sensed something off between Chan and Athena.) What?! (She’s furious.) They really are unfair! This thing should be free already! Your father’s been working for them half of his life. You have to say no to this, Chan.

Chan (Stressed.) I’m afraid I can’t say no, Celest. If this is the only way then I’m willing to do it. If it means saving my father then I’ll do it.

(Celestine was disappointed and worried with Chan’s decision. She’s scared that the Adair might take him away from her too. She’s was neglected by her parent’s half of her life but Chan was there to fill the void. She’s afraid that sooner or later he’ll neglect her as well.)

SEQUENCE 6

(Chan knocked on the mansion’s gate. The same guard opened the door and accompanied him. The guard knocked on the door and Athena opened it.)

Athena (Not surprise with Chan but she’s stunned how clean Chan is. His hair was fixed at the back, wearing a plain white shirt which looked clean on his pale skin. She composed herself and welcomed Chan.) So, I’m assuming you’re accepting the offer? (She asked while they’re walking into the garden.) Trust me I tried to talk to them without the condition but I can’t make them say yes, sorry. (She bowed her head.)

Chan It's okay, ma’am. (He smiled)

Athena (She guided Chan with what to do, she knows Chan already know what to do but she still wanted to guide him.) Here’s our garden. As far as I know you can just maintain the grass’ length then that one, (she pointed at her swing, also her comfort area.) that’s my place. If someone enters the garden tell them they can’t touch that.

(Athena wanted to day that he can rest there but she can’t.)

Chan (Listened attentively to Athena.) Okay, ma’am. I’ll make sure of that. (He smiled again.)

Athena If you have questions, you can ask anyone in here but if you’re shy, feel free to ask the guard to find me then I’ll answer your queries, okay? (She left the garden when

Chan nodded.) (Chan started to work.)

SEQUENCE 7

Celestine How’s work? (She welcomed Chan with a smile.)

Chan Tired but it was okay. (He removed his shirt then went to shower.)

(Celestine felt sad but she understands him. She convinced herself that he’s juts tired and he needs rest.)

SEQUENCE 8

(Chan went to the mansion on time to start his work and to his surprise, Athena is on her spot reading books. Her presence was distracting for her but he didn’t let it affect him.)

Chan Good morning, ma’am. (He bowed a little to show respect. Then started his work.)

Celestine (She closed her books then watched him do his work.) You can just call me ‘Athena’ you know. I won’t get offended.

Chan (He faced her.) Okay, Athena. (It sounded weird for him but he didn’t let his face show that.)

Athena (She’s getting bored which made her have an idea to ask question about Chan.) How old are you? If you don’t mind me asking.

Chan (Still doing his work.) I’m 22. (He wanted to ask her the same question but he thought it’ll be weird.)

Athena Oh, I’m 20. See, you calling me ma’am when you’re older that me is odd. (She walked near him.) Is Celestine your girlfrie- (she paused realizing that it’s his privacy and she shouldn’t ask questions like that.) Sorry, don’t answer that.

Chan (Smirked in secret. He faced Athena.) No, Athena. She’s not my girlfriend. She’s my childhood friend, I treat her like a sister. (Went on his work again.)

Athena Well, it’s obvious that she likes you. (She stared at him. Chan looks confused.) Don’t tell me you don’t know?

Chan No, she doesn’t. She treats me like a sibling as we’ll. (He tried to convince himself but now that Athena mentioned it, he’s overthinking it.)

Athena Do you have a girlfriend? (She’s curious and follows Chan wherever he goes.)

Chan (He released a sigh.) No, Athena. I don’t have one. (He walked on different direction but Athena still followed him.)

Athena Are you not going to ask me any questions? Are you not curious about me? (She stepped in front of Chan making him face her.)

Chan (He’s curious, in fact, very intrigued about her.) I am, but I have work to d- (Athena cut him off.)

Athena (In her excited tone.) Ask me then! You can still work while asking me, you know. (Stated it in ‘as a matter-of- fact tone’)

Chan What do you do when you’re bored? (Looked into Celestine’s eyes.)

Athena (Looked up to think of an answer and she really couldn’t keep an eye contact with Chan.) I really love reading, and if I don’t have anything to read, I like to clean my room. (Still looking up while thinking of other answer.) I really don’t leave my room when I’m bored.

Chan (Hesitant.) Do you have a boyfriend? (He removed his eyes on Athena.)

(Athena’s mother entered the garden and saw them talking.)

Athena’s mother (Shouting.) Athena! Go to your room!

SEQUENCE 9

(Athena immediately rushed into their mansion together with her mother.)

Athena (Nervous.) It’s not what you’re thinking, mom. I’m not interested in him and he’s not interested in me.

Athena’s mother (Furious.) You don’t know that, Athena. See how he’s using you and now he’s asking personal questions? (Brows raised.)

Athena (Touched her mother’s arm to calm her.) I was the one who asked first, mom. I told him that it’s okay. (She’s calm to compose her words better.)

Athena’s mother (Calmed down.) I’m just trying to protect you, Athena. (Caressed Athena’s face.) You have to be careful, love, okay? (Kisses her forehead.)

Athena (Smiled.) Yes, mom.

SEQUENCE 10

(Celestine watching Athena and Chan form afar. Anger rushing in her as she felt that Athena is taking away Chan from her.)

Celestine (Siting and smoking.) I was right about you, you slut. (She puffed her smoke again then aimed her eyes on Athena. Planning something to ruin Athena.)

SCENE 4

(Celestine and Chan sitting on a bench.)

Celestine (She looked at Chan.) How’s your first week?

Chan (Looking at their view.) Tiring but I’m getting used to it. (Looked at Celestine.)

Celestine (Avoided Chan’s gaze.) Have you talk to Athena? (She knows the answer but she wants to see if Chan will cover it up.)

Chan (Hesitant to answer but he suddenly remembers Celestine’s trauma.) No.

(Celestine anger rose again. She couldn’t control her anger anymore so she left.)

Chan (Shocked with Celestines action.) Hey, (Ran after her.) what’s the matter?

Celestine

(Showed Chan a fake smile.) Nothing. My stomach is just aching, nothing else.

SEQUENCE 10

(Athena laying down on bed and staring at her ceiling.)

Athena (Talking to herself.) Why am I so curious about him? (Pertaining to Chan.) Do I like him? (She sat then faced her mirror.) Do I?

(She wanted to ask her mother as her mother is her only friend but she knows she’ll freak out so she decided to keep it to herself.)

SCENE 5

(Athena is on the garden again when Chan went to his work. They were awkward to each other as Athena feels shy to talk to him and same goes to Chan.)

Chan (Shy.) Good morning, Athena. (Didn’t look on her and continued with his work.)

(Athena just nodded and didn’t greet him back. Chan and her continuously talked for a week. She’ll always watch Chan do his work and Chan watches her read her books.)

Athena (Stood up to go near him.) How’s your father? I heard from my mother that he’s getting better but I wanted to confirm it that’s why I’m asking.

Chan (He looked at her for a second, when he felt his heart race, he returned his attention on his work.) Yes, he’s getting better. Thank you, I don’t know what I’m going to do without your help. (He smiled.)

Athena (She smirked, she thought of something fun.) It’s not for free. (She threw a wet mud on Chan.)

Chan (His mouth was wide open, he’s shocked. He recovered immediately then went to get the hose the aimed it to Athena.) I’m very competitive with these games.

Athena (Scooped the wet mud again.) So am I! (Threw the mud at him again.

SEQUENCE 11

(Celestine is watching them from afar again. Tears streaming down her face.)

Celestine (Sobbing.) You were never that happy when you’re with me. (Sobs again.) How can she take all of you from me? (Sobs turned into anger.) What is it with her that you all like her more than me?! (She fell on her knees. Rain starts pouring then she sobs again.) First my parents and now him?

SCENE 6

(Chan and Celestine were having dinner at Chan’s house.)

Chan (Staring at his plate.) Athena’s heart is so soft, Celest. She’s so easy to love. I’ve been with her for only a month but I can feel that this is absolute. (He paused for a minute.) I wonder how can her heart be so pure. I wonder how I’m going to take good care of her fragile heart.

Celestine (She didn’t face him but she’s in shock with what she heard. Anger rushes into her veins again.) You love her?

(Chan’s answer was a torture to Celestine.)

Chan If this is what I think love is then yes, I think I am, Celest. (Releases a deep sigh.)

Celestine (Looked at his eyes.) Then why do you look sad?

Chan (Looked at Celestine in his tired eyes.) Because I know that how much I want to give all my love for her, we can’t be together.

Sequence 12

(Celestine knocked on the mansion’s gate. The same guard who entertained them open the gate for her.)

Celestine I’m here to talk to Mrs. Adair. (She immediately left and wait straight to the entrance of the mansion. A maid saw her then accompanied her to Athena’s mother.)

Athena’s Mother (Confused.) Why are you here?

Celestine (Sat in front of Mrs. Adair.) Remember your new gardener? (She paused to give time to think.) She likes your daughter and I’m here to offer you help as I’m sure that you don’t want a gardener for your daughter. (Mrs. Adair was shocked and intrigued but she didn’t say anything.)

(Celestine releases deep breathe.) I have a plan on how- to take-out Chan but I’m going to need you help. (Pause.)

I’m going to need a poison. He’ll celebrate his birthday next week and I’ll be helping with the food and there…

I’m going to poison him.

SEQUENCE 13 (Chan and Athena are sitting on Athena’s spot on the garden.)

Athena (Facing Chan.) What’s your plans tomorrow? You’ll be 23! I’m so excited! (Her cheeks turned to blush pink.)

Chan (Smiles at her.) Celestine is going to cook as usual.

Will you be there?

Athena (Rested her head on Chan’s shoulder.) I am. I’ll bring you a present.

Chan Your presence is enough, Athena. (Kisses her head.)

Athena (Removed her head on Chan’s shoulder.) Let’s go to my room.

Chan (Shocked.) What? Are you sure? (Athena nodded.)

SEQUENCE 14

Athena (Opened her room door.) Welcome to my room.

Chan (His eyes explored her humongous room.) Your room is huge. (He sat on her couch.)

Athena (She pulled Chan into her bed and started massaging his hands.) I love you, Chan.

Chan (He wasn’t shock.) I love you, Athena. (He kissed her.)

SCENE 7

Celestine Happy birthday, Chan (Whispers on his ear.)

Chan (Woke up in a good mood knowing his mother will see Athena.) Thank you, Celest.

Celestine Stand up, time to eat, birthday boy.

SEQUENCE 15 Athena (Knocks on Chan’s door and Chan welcomed her.) Happy birthday. (She handed her gift.)

Chan (Accepted the gift.) Thank you. Come on, take a seat. I’ll get you something to eat.

(Chan went on their kitchen to get her something to eat but then Celestine prepared Athena’s food already.)

Celestine I heard a knock so I assumed it was a guest. (She handed Chan the food.)

Chan

(She handed the food to Athena then sat down beside her.) I hope you’ll like it.

Athena

(Tasted the food.) It’s good! (Chokes on the food. She thought it was a normal cough but then she started losing her breathe.)

SEQUENCE 16

(Athena’s parents rushed into Chan’s house when they heard the news about their daughter.)

Athena’s Father (Pointed on Chan.) If she dies, I will kill you father myself and I will make your life living hell.

Athena’s Mother (Whispering but mad.) What the hell happened in here?

(Talking to Celestine.)

Celestine Chan handed the food. He poisoned your daughter. On purpose. (She’s boiling mad.)

Chan (Stunned.) She’s dead. Athena’s dead.

Athena’s Mother (Rushed into Chan and started slapping him.) This is your fault! I will kill your father. Mark my words! (She cried then went on Athena’s body.)

SEQUENCE 17

(Chan couldn’t attend Athena’s burial he then just went after everything. Athena’s mother really did it, Athena’s mother killed his father, indirectly.)

Chan (Looking at Athena’s name on the rock then it started raining.) How are you, love? (Started crying along with the rain. He couldn’t hold his tears back anymore.) Take me with you, Athena. Please. Take me.

[epiphanyblog03]

Hīrō no Umarekawari Michael Jan A. Bautista

There once was a guy who destroyed the nations of humans, destroyed the forest of spirits, and even killed gods. As the demon lord, the guy was dreaded. Even a demon lord, though, grows weary of the horrors of war and suggests that the heroes, who have come to negotiate with him, divide the world into four sections: the human world, the demon world, the spirits world, and the world of the Gods. He also suggests that the heroes construct walls between the sections and seal their gates for a thousand years. The animosities between demons and humans should vanish after a thousand years. 2000 years later, the demon king has at last been reincarnated, and the unfamiliar world has shocked him to his core. The unstoppable , who has lived a life filled with battle, death, and devastation, chooses to leave it all behind and reincarnate into a time in the future in the hopes that it would offer him some peace and quiet. He is resurrected into a tranquil time in which magic users are required to enroll in a school in order to hone their skills. Vicious distinguishes himself as a standout student right away after maintaining his memory and power. However, he feels that something is wrong with this time period and determines that, in addition to his more enjoyable academic life, this will be his mission. The demon king, Vicous, struck a contract with the human hero beelzebub to give his life in order for peace to prevail after 2,000 years of unending battles and conflict. Upon reincarnating 2,000 years later, Vicious discovers that society values his pureblood descendants over the demons who interbred with other species, such as humans and spirits, and that royal demons now harshly rule over lower-class hybrid demons. Vicious, who is technically a hybrid now, discovers that magic in general has started to decline and that the peace he established has made his descendants weaker. Vicous decides to reclaim his former title of Demon King, but first he must pass the Demon King Academy, where he is branded a complete outcast. Beelzebub is mercifully given some level of calm in death by Vicious. Beelzebub is reunited with his former sweetheart as his spirit vanishes, allowing him to pass away guilt-free. The two rival armies finally lay down their weapons and the land is once again at peace. Fighting is no longer necessary.

13 Seconds Maria Beatriz Campo

I love how observant I am when I am in love. I love that I remember every little details about your favorites, hobbies, and different stuffs. 

In this world full of madness, I only find myself happy when I am with this person. 

You were like made in peaches and strawberry. Sweet and lovely.

I looked at your eyes and all I could see is love, home, and peace. I never thought about loving someone ever again until I saw the glimpse of your smile, the sparks from your eyes, and the voice that sounds like a music to everyone’s ears. The day that we’re together being the best day of my life. We hold each other’s hand and just goofed around. You were the reason why I helped myself to be better again. 

It’s been so long since the last time I taste the happiness I am getting from myself.

It was astonishingly sweet and tasty. 

“What is something that you’re willing to change from your past?” she asked. 

There’s a lot of things came up to my mind when she asked me that question. But I kept it in my mind and didn’t bother to answer. 

But one thing is for sure as hell that I am willing to change from my past. I would never hurt you like that.”

But things are meant to happen for how the way it is now. I lose you to find myself. My heart stopped beating for you to start loving someone new. I let you go so I could let myself heal. I have no regrets for chasing you a countless time, I have no regrets that I once lost my self-respect just to give you the love that you deserve, I have no regrets for loving you too much that it almost crashed my soul.

And when I find the courage to write our story in a short poem and put my emotions on it. I titled it 13 Seconds. 

‘You are the tea that calmed me,

The coffee that wakes me.

And mostly, you are the sugar that makes me happy. 

With only 13 seconds remaining,

I find it lovely and lasting.’

When time almost consumed us, there is a 13 second to admire you from all the scars left on me. And I chose it to be lovely and memorable. 13 seconds when they took your life, 13 seconds when I chose to be mad at you instead of loving you. 

13 seconds will always be left in me with a lot of pain, suffering, and regrets. 

Academic Rival Cunanan, Lady Hannah I.

Dave is a typical campus crush and a person who radiates positive energy. He's a kind, gentle man who has a sense of humor and is also smart. Trish is a very complex woman who can be difficult to read at times and hates her life. She’s sarcastic, boyish , moody, and also smart. One day, while he was driving on the way to school, he had an accident because his car was suddenly cut by a motorcycle. He went out to the car and had an argument with the motorcycle driver, who happens to be Trish. Dave and Trish had an encounter on the road, but then they decided not to make it a big deal since none of their vehicles had damage. When Dave reaches his classroom, he is shocked and annoyed to see Trish sitting at the back of his seat. Trish, on the other hand, was also shocked and you can also see the annoyed look in her eyes.

And then one day, their school had this quizbee contest, and the one who won was exempted from their major exam. Trish didn't think twice about signing up, and Dave is also cabale because he wants to annoy Trish, and Dave is also cabale because he's smart. Trish is in the library reading some books to review for the upcoming quizbee. Dave sat down next to Trish and was easily annoyed because of the existence of Dave. She got up and brought her books with her, and unexpectedly she dropped her books.The person can discuss among themselves and then press the buzzer/bell to answer the question first. No discussion is allowed after pressing the buzzer. The person that pushes the buzzer/bell first gets a chance to answer it. Dave and Trish, who are rivals and the first question about history. Trish gets one point. The second question is about politics Dave received that point until they tied. Trish received two points, as did Dave.The last question is about geography. Trish hates geography, while Dave loves geography. Dave looked at Trish, who was sad because she badly wanted to win this quiz bee because she wanted to make her parents proud. Dave pressed the buzzer first and answered wrong even though he knew the answer, but while Trish has the chance to win and she guesses it right, she's so happy and jumping, she looked at Dave's face and made a face that she won. While Dave was smiling because it was the first time seeing Trish look so happy, for peace offering, Trish asked Dave to a coffee shop to treat him something to eat and they talked a lot , and they sunddenly thinks that they have a lot in common and theyre compatible to each other , after that’s dave always ask trish to go on a coffee date at first trish don’t want it but she feels safe around him but one day her father had an accident and now is in the hospital trish cried so much and ask what happen her father the police said it was hit and run and the worst part the one who hit her father is dave’s father , once trish knows this she will kill dave;s father because she’s very mad and dave’s father dindt stop to look who he hit and just run away , police came and they know what the car who hit her father and they also know who it is they they also wanted so say an apology because that day dave’s mother is giving birth that’s why dave’s father is in a hurry , dave and her family vistited trish family and dave and trish is shocked to see each other and trish run to dave’s dad and punch him and cry dave don’t do anything because he know that is their fault, trish is very kind woman he accept the apology of dads dave and dindt file a case but they paid all the hospital bills and everthing trish dad’s is know recovering and thank God noting serouis happened after a year , trish and dave are inlove with each other and now theyre in college pursuing their dreams they had to separate because trish wanted to be a lawyer while dave wantd to be an pilot they don’t have time to eacher other but they always make a way just to see each other once a month and they both understand because of their study . Trish and Dave have a happy ending even though they go through a lot of things. 

Where Are You? Karole Elise M. Eco

What’s for breakfast, hon?” Min asked. “I cooked bacon and eggs, your favorite!” I said with enthusiasm. I saw Min’s eyes brighten up, smiling, “Smells good!”

“What are your plans for today?” he asked while putting some food. “Hmm, not much,” then he nodded, “That’s good! You should take a rest,” he said while pointing his fork at me, looking like my dad’s scolding me. I laughed, then something came up in my head, “I have an idea!” I shouted with excitement.

“Hmm?” he asked curiously. “Why don’t you take me out on a date? While I have free time!” I suggested. He then fakes smile at me, and held my hand, “Rina, honey, you know I can’t…” he said softly. “But… why…” I asked. 

He didn’t answer, avoiding my eyes, “Why?” I asked him for another time. “Hon, why?” again, waiting for his response. I blinked three times, staring at him. At my fourth blink, everything changed. He disappeared, a sunny day became rainy, and I have two empty plates in front of me. I smiled with my tears dripping, “Yeah, of course you can’t, you left me almost a year ago.”

Body And Soul Awaits Gabiola, Arshlee Shereen S.

It was not a typical day for Kyedae because when she regained consciousness, she had no idea where she was or how she got there, nor could she recall her home.

 Kyedae groaned as she woke up, rubbed her eyes to remove some eye-boogers, and then tried to stand. "Ugh, why do I feel like I've risen from the dead?" she questioned.

 Kyedae: Where am I? I'm not sure where this place is; did someone take me somewhere? Am I being kidnapped? So, if someone kidnapped me, why would they put me in a beautiful forest, and the real question is, why would they kidnap me in the first place? They wouldn't want someone as annoying and chatty as me, would they? So, am I going to be lost forever? Is it possible that I will die? She pretended to cry as she came up with ridiculous ideas.

But Kyedae will always be Kyedae; she is the type of person who will not give up in order to obtain what she desires. She started walking around happily humming, completely forgetting that she was lost right now simply because she was appreciating the beauty of nature.

Kyedae was exhausted, but luckily, she saw the playground and, after walking for hours, she noticed a person. Her face brightened up and she decided to approach that person. "Oh, my goodness! Hello! I finally spotted someone! My name is Kyedae, and I believe I am lost. Could you perhaps help me in finding my way home? " She explained.

But the girl didn't seem to notice her, as if she was a ghost. "Miss ma'am, I know you can see me by your facial expressions, so could you kindly help me?” she said.

Audi: "Why should I help you? Perhaps you are a thief, a kidnapper, or worse, a murderer.” 

“Do I resemble a thief, a kidnapper, or a murderer? Will this gorgeous human being be that type of person? Are you being serious right now miss ma’am?” She laughed.

Audi: I don’t care, just don’t talk to me, and leave me alone. 

Audi began walking and came to a halt when she realized the girl was following her. “Why are you following me?” Audi said

"Because you will help this unfortunate beautiful human being in finding her way home, miss ma’am." Kyedae responded.

Audi: Please stop calling me as Miss Ma'am; my name is Audi. So annoying

"Wow, you have a name, Audi, and it's a lovely name. So, where are we going now?”

Audi: What exactly do you mean by "we"? Did I agree to help you? If I recall correctly, I did not state that I would help you; you are the one who keeps following me.

"Would you mind walking slowly?" I can't understand you; why are you walking so fast? Are you chasing something? HAHAHA” Kyedae said while laughing.

Audi: Will you stop bothering me if I help you?

Kyedae stopped laughing when she heard what Audi said, she wants to be friends with Audi as much as she wants to let her help her. But she can't do anything since she needs to get home as quickly as possible.

"I know you'll help me; who can resist this gorgeous girl?" she exclaimed.

They began walking together, and Kyedae kept asking questions about Audi, but Audi only answered sparingly, and she continued to show no interest in whatsoever Kyedae was talking about.

Audi pulled a vape from her pocket and began puffing on it. Kyedae noticed what Audi did and hurried to take it. “What is your problem! Can’t you see I am using it?” Audi was furious 

“You should not use vape because it may hurt your body; vaping is harmful Audi.” She said in a calm voice.

Audi: Who are you, my mother, to tell me what I should and should not do? You know what I shouldn't have helped you because how can you help someone who doesn't even know how old she is? No one will help you if you continue to be a nuisance."

“Oh, I’m sorry I shouldn’t have followed you around, how foolish of me. But you are right haha how can you help someone like me if I cannot remember anything.” There is a hint of sadness in her voice, but she still manages to smile.

She turned away, trying to hold back her tears, but before she left, she said, "Even though you are harsh to me, I am thankful that I met you." Thank you for allowing me to follow you around despite my stubbornness. "I will never forget you, Audi," she sobbed this time. Knowing Kyedae, she is not the type of person who will be sad and cry when someone says something hurtful to her. But this time she wasn't sure what had happened to her, possibly because she just wanted to know more about Audi.

Kyedae decided to walk and end up leaving Audi alone; she's been walking for about an hour and has absolutely no idea where she's going or how she'll get help. She suddenly felt something strange, her head hurt, and then she fainted.

Audi: Why am I feeling this way when I should be relieved that she will never bother me again? And it wasn't even my fault she felt that way because she was the one who followed me. Ugh! I should stop thinking about her.

Audi arrived at the hospital after a time, and she had an appointment for a regular check-up since she has an atrial septal defect (ASD), a hole in the heart between the upper chambers (atria). However, there was a sudden chaos at the hospital due to a code blue patient, and she happens to see who is the person lying on that bed; she couldn't believe her eyes, and she's certain that she saw Kyedae lying on that bed. Audi panicked as she paused to see what was happening to Kyedae, completely forgetting that she had an appointment to attend to.

After a while, the doctors were able to save Kyedae, and she was relieved to hear the news. When she asked the nurse what had happened to her, she was told that Kyedae had been in a coma for almost three years due to an accident. She cannot process the fact that she saw and talked to a ghost a while ago. Audi was irritated with herself because she remembered the things, she told Kyedae. 

Audi decided to go to Kyedae first before heading to her check-up so she could check on her. But before she goes, she went outside to get some white camellia flowers since she liked the significance of the flower and so chose it. White camellias represent admiration, purity, respect, and can even represent destiny. And she believes it perfectly fits them.

Audi: You appear to be a dazzling star, but you're simply a regular person who has too much to endure. I know we just met, but I get the feeling that you have a lot of baggage even if you don't show it. I'm truly sorry, Kyedae; I'm sorry for venting my frustration on you. I regret saying such hurtful words to you. I'm not going to let you get hurt anymore; I'm going to be the one who will look after you. Because if something happens to you again, I will never forgive myself. Whatever happens, I will always choose to stay.

Audi did not believe in destiny, but after what happened to them, she knew she was destined to meet Kyedae.

A Tangent Love Story Glezette Garcia

I lay my eyes on the road, the road that leads to the man I love the most. Wearing the white Filipiniana dress that we designed when we were in high school. The car stopped in front of the big door of St. James the Apostle Parish Church. I felt mixed emotions as I walked to the front entrance door. I stopped before entering, and I observed the people inside the church. I was even more nervous and happy when I saw the man I love in front of the altar and my tears started to flow when he looked at me. All the memories that we had before, the day when I first met him and fell in love with him, entered my mind.

"I have been an Altar Server since I was 12 years old. My grandfather recruited me because he was a choir member in a parish here in Pampanga. I've met many people and made friends. " I was writing in my new diary when Zette called me, who was standing in front of the door, and pointed out to me the group of men who would pass by our classroom. The tall, tan man with the lovely eyes and smile caught my attention. After the boys left our classroom, Zette and I just laughed together. 2 years later, I was about to finish my JHS when COVID-19 came, which had an impact on the entire world and many people's lives. That is why we took the first online classes during my final year at JHS. The flow of my first online class went well, and when the class was about to end, I noticed my classmate named Dion. We have the same birthdate, but he was exactly one year older than me. He caught my attention, and I became interested in him. That is why I made some moves to get his attention.

After a few months of trying to get his attention, I finally told him my feelings, and after almost a week, he also confessed his feelings to me. We started getting to know each other more and decided to meet in person. He also started to court me, and we lived like we were truly in a relationship. There were times when we fought because of our differences in beliefs. One day, we decided to teach and show how to practice each other’s practices and beliefs in our two religions. We did not do that just because we wanted to encourage each other to leave our own religion for the sake of our own relationship, but to show and let one another feel where they truly belong and what religion will bring us closer to God.

After a few months or years of introducing God, our own practices, and beliefs, Dion decided to become a Catholic. He became my fellow server when he joined our ministry as a Eucharistic Minister. He also became a catechist who teaches kids in specific barangays about our basic information and knowledge about Catholicism and basic prayers. Many seminarians and our parish priest are always jokingly asking him to enter seminary, and he will always respond that he wants to become a father, a father of our future kids. As time goes by, our date is not the typical date of many because we are always in the church. Helping, designing, and cleaning are our favorite things to do in our parish. And when our 5th year anniversary came, Dion and I went to St. James the Apostle Parish Church. We attended mass, and after that, we took some pictures. He asked me to take a picture of myself in front of the altar. Then suddenly, he came closer to me and said some words. Afterwards, he kneeled in front of me, and he showed me the engagement ring. He asked me to marry him, and I said yes to him.

People were grinning as I walked down the aisle toward the altar, and Dion had a smile on his lips as I headed in his direction. After a few steps going in his direction, I took a seat in the front row of the VIP section along with his parents. After a short while, the ceremony started, Dion faced the altar, and the bishop started to speak. I never thought that my INC crush in 8th grade would stumble on the altar, wed God, and become a Catholic Priest. The ordination finished after almost two hours, and the guy I love and will continue to love from afar is now a priest. He looked at the people, and I could see the joy in his eyes—it was the only smile I've seen in the almost 20 years we've known each other. As I was observing him, my cell phone abruptly rang, indicating that I had received a message; it was from my fellow attorney. That's why I approached Fr. Dion, did the honoring gesture (mano) and congratulated him for his ordination. I also said goodbye to him. I turned around and walked out of the church where he promised to marry me 10 years ago. I just closed my eyes and my last tears fell from my eyes. In the end, we can find our true happiness and the place where we truly belong.

It's Confusing Somewhere Maxene Valerie B. Mandap

Chloe Arabella is a simple teenage girl living her best life. One day, she woke up in a strange, yet familiar world. She woke up in a hotel bed with a confusing look, as she recalls that she slept in her bedroom last night. She began to wander in the streets, trying to find her way home. Until she found herself, walking to the house of her aunt and uncle. Upon knocking she found herself, face to face with a girl that exactly looks like her down to every mole. “Hi! I am Catherine Agatha, you are?” cheerfully greeted the girl. “I’m Chloe Arabella, do I know you?” she replied. “I’m the only daughter of Genevieve and Matthew Velazquez.” Catherine added.

Chloe Arabella suddenly submerged herself in deep thoughts, as far as she knows, her aunt and uncle, do not have a son nor a daughter. Chloe let go the thoughts she had in mind and tried to befriend Catherine. It is peculiar that her mother does not contact her despite of being absent in their house for a month now. It is also peculiar that the numbers and contact information of her close friends and family gone missing. She and Catherine also have a lot of similarities, from side dish to drinks. Her interests and friends are all mutual. She tried to connect the dots and investigate the small details she noticed since day 1. And then she realized, she woke up in a different universe. This Catherine is not a different person, it is her exact replica in this alternate universe. But then again, because of her natural curiosity, she began to question why Catherine have a different parents compared to her despite of the fact that she is in a parallel universe. She began to question things beyond their control. Chloe confronted Catherine with this matter. She explained all the details and theories she had in mind.

Chloe suggested to investigate the true personality of Catherine. The latter agreed. They began to explore information of Catherine since birth. They found out that Catherine’s birth certificate is not registered in her birth country. It is extraordinary that Catherine’s personal information is not registered, making her lose her true identity. They began to wonder why Catherine’s personal information cannot be accessed. They tried to ask Mr. and Mrs. Velasquez, but all they got is nothing.

Chloe and Catherine started growing suspicious, because of their collective curiosity, they agreed to investigate about Catherine’s true personality. Chloe said that in her universe, the name of her parents are Mr. and Mrs. Lucia and Christopher Castillo. They own a multi-billion company named, Palazzo de Castillo. Catherine, with a shocked faced, said that her parents owned that company in this universe. Because of the overwhelming information, they realized that something is wrong. Something is not aligned in the two universes.

Using Catherine’s connection, they are able to find Mr. and Mrs. Villanueva. As they met the couple, Chloe Arabella heart dropped when she noticed that Mr. and Mrs. Villanueva are the exact same replica of her parents in their universe, only one thing is wrong, they are poor. Mrs. Lucia Villanueva is a market vendor, while Mr. Christopher Villanueva is a jeepney driver. Catherine and Chloe introduced themselves as student researchers, trying to interview different lives of people. The Villanueva couple agreed to be interviewed. They asked multiple questions, Mrs. Lucia started to tell them that she lost her child right after the baby was born. They said to her that the child died before the nurses are able to present her to her parents. In a separate interview, Mr. Villanueva recalled that he saw the baby breath as the nurses put her in the nursery. He claimed that the child is as healthy as ever, making it impossible to die. Because of his good memory, Mr. Villanueva was able to narrate the story detail by detail making it more believable.

Chloe and Catherine went to the hospital where Mrs. and Mr. Villanueva’s child was born. Upon searching information, they found out that the child was put for adoption. And the parents who adopted the Villanueva’s supposedly “dead” child, was the Velasquez...

Every information they learned, fall into their right place. They found out, that Catherine’s real parents are the Villanueva’s. Everything was a mess. They decided to confront the Velasquez couple about the newfound shocking information. Upon arriving at the house, they found themselves face to face in a scene where Mr. Velasquez is threatening Mr. Villanueva with a gun. “That information is supposed to be confidential! We paid you a right amount of money to keep your mouth shut. Of all the people in the world, you let that information slip to MY daughter. No one should know YOUR CHILD DID NOT DIE.” After those words, a gunshot was heard. Mr. Villanueva died, it was witnessed by the two eyes of Chloe and Catherine. With bravery, they showed themselves and questioned the events they just witnessed.

“YES! It’s true! We adopted you, Catherine, because you possess an extraordinary luck to make us rich. We threatened your father to give you up for adoption, or else his wife and you will die. We tried to keep this as a secret for the rest of your life, for us to keep the gold you are attached with.” said Mrs. Velasquez. Catherine is boiling with anger. After lots of shouting and revealing answers, Chloe realized that not all people are not the same. Maybe in the present universe they are kind, in an alternate universe, they are evil. As Chloe close her eyes, she slowly falls into a deep sleep. She is just a simple teenage girl. As she opened her eyes, she found herself into a strange world

Bike Marcelo Jay

There is a mother who loves her son very much, she wants to buy him a toy but she doesn't have money to buy it so she thought of a way to make money. one day he saw his son looking at children with toys, the child felt envy and sadness. when his mother called him, he passed and just punched her in the face. The mother was saddened by what happened and blamed herself for why her son was angry with her. What the child does not know is that every time his mother leaves, she ventures into the heat just to save up to buy the bike that the child wants. Soon the mother will be able to save and you can see the joy on her face because despite her tiredness she will be able to buy what her son wants when he is happy. He talked to her one morning but he didn't even pay attention to her and just walked out the door. His mother didn't even tell him that he would be able to buy the bike that his son wanted. One night while the mother was going home carrying the sadness and sadness that happened because of what her son did, she did not realize that a car was about to hit her and ran over her, which is why she lost her life. One morning a delivery man came to their house and delivered a beautiful bike. the boy was surprised and happy he immediately looked for his mother but what appeared to him was near their house panicking and said that his mother was dead. the child suddenly fell and thought about everything he did to his mother, he didn't think about the sacrifice his mother made to buy what he wanted instead of being satisfied, he always felt jealous. now he got what he wanted and his mother is gone.

Seoulmate Eunice C. Pangan

It was an ordinary Sunday afternoon when the delivery man came knocking with a parcel from my mother has arrived. 'For my beloved Juliette, I hope this brings you home.' was written on top of the slightly heavy box, which I know too well that these are the things I've overlooked when moving out. I smiled at the thought of how my mom is so supportive of me when I decided to move out, considering how she wanted me to stick with her all the time. Kudos to mom, but what really stood out to me in this very afternoon is the content of the box. Unpacking the remaining things at the attic made me nostalgic and just as I was about to place my picture frames I've forgotten to bring, one slipped out and fell. It wasn't supposed to be dramatic but then, behind the picture in the frame was another old photograph—a photograph that made my heart skipped a beat. A man with a playful smile, leaning on a mustang, as if inviting you to ride with him and just roam around the city. My first love. Ron.

I never brought him up and it was such a long time but his impact never left me. His charming smile and glistening eyes never ceased to leave my mind, wondering if he had caught multiple girls off guard with that look of his. I laughed at the thought as I flipped the photograph. Written was an address from Korea. Along with it was a message: 'Wish you were here, Julietta. I'm sorry for leaving you that sudden. I promise we'll bound to see each other soon. When the time comes, let's take a trip, shall we?' My heart softened and with that, that's when I realized on this very Sunday afternoon that I'll search for him all over again.

Hence, that is why I am currently at a plane to Korea with Al, whom I called immediately when I decided to start my agenda. He was willing to help, and I am glad he's with me now. Excitement pumps in my blood as we landed and the city of Seoul welcomes us. Bustling crowds, busy streets. It's like we're in an actual Korean drama show. "So where is he exactly?" Al asked as we rode the subway to the main square. "It's somewhere near a mechanics shop in Itaewon. He must have worked there, considering how he loved fixing cars." I replied, unconsciously smiling. We then went to the place but unfortunately, the apartment has a different resident already, to which I have expected. "This won't be easy." I muttered as we then asked the neigborhood about Ron's whereabouts but to no luck. Our last stop and luck is Kim's Repair Shop. Unfortunately, the repair shop was also closed. "Juli, cheer up. We'll surely find him." He said reassuringly as he hugged me but I can also see in his face that he's forced to smile, judging how much I've pulled him here. "Al, you don't have to do this. I'm sorry this might have been tiring for you. Who even knows if we'll see him?" I said. He smiled and shook his head. "Hey, what am I supposed to do? Leave you here? Plus you didn't force me. I want to help you. Let me do that. And who's saying no to living the Korean life for a week, right?" He said and we both laughed. Al's has always been so caring and sweet. I don't know why he can even tolerate my shenanigans like this. "Let's grab a coffee—" "Excuse me, are you looking for someone?" A middle aged woman who's slightly older than me suddenly asked us, whose gaze was on the photograph I was holding the whole time we're searching. Surprisingly, she has a good English accent so we were able to understand her. "Hi! Uh-- yes. We're punching the moon here but we're looking for this man," I said and completely showed her the photograph. "The address was near here and we thought someone might also know him around the neighborhood but to no avail. We also checked if he's here in the repair shop but even the place is closed." The woman looked shocked when I explained. "You know Ron?" That single line ignited the hope that was faltering inside me. I nodded and she then insisted that we go to a nearby coffee shop.

She then told us that Ron was very popular back then as he was very friendly and that he is always willing to help. She said her memories of Ron was vivid. "It's because he also helped me. I can't thank him enough of how he saved me from those who was bullying me just because I migrated from Thailand. Since that day, my confidence in myself increased. I learned how to save myself and protect myself from the prejudice of others. If Ron did, I can too."

It was a very heartfelt story and of course, Ron would absolutely do that. He's that kind of person that will make you feel as if no one can definitely harm you. "Do you know where he is?" Al then asked. She gave us a soft smile and said, "I heard he moved to Gangnam. Opportunity was great there I supposed. But then, when I saw him leaving, it is as if he was moving because he was also searching for something." It's ironic how we're finding someone who's also finding something else, isn't it? Al and I decided to start our trip to Gangnam the following day and just enjoy the city of Seoul. We ate the famous tteokbokkis, wore hanboks, and even went to the lovely Seoul Tower. It was such a fun night amidst of the tiredness we felt.

The next day, we immediately went to Gangnam. We searched for famous repair shops and a bunch appeared. Through the days we went one by one but then, we weren't able to find him. Sure there are stories of him lingering the town but when asked of where he is, they had no idea. According to them, one day, Ron bid his goodbye without even telling them of where he'd go. I felt down as I thought we'd finally see him. At the end, we were about to go home not finding him. Al comforted me a lot and that's when I realized that upon searching for Ron, I realized how I shouldn't go on and delve in the past— that I should focus on the present, despite every tempting things the past has to offer.

We were staying at a local souvenir shop when I bumped an old lady. The things that I'm holding fell and so hers too. I kept apologizing when suddenly I saw her teared up. "Oh my, I am so so sorry, I didn—" "You're Julietta?" I was shocked when she asked. I looked at her hand and saw that she's holding Ron's picture. I nodded. Maybe after all, this trip might not still end. She then invited me to her house and then she told her story. "I'm her mother. It's a surprise, right? Your mom might have told you how I was never in the picture. I was never in sight of Ron for the majority of his life. Because of poverty, I decided to leave him with a distant relative and here I am, moving to Gangnam as I discovered a job offer here. All this time, I thought he resented me. But then, I was moved of how he searched the whole city of Seoul to find me. And how he ended up one day here in Gangnam. Such a fearless man.

He said, he wanted to find me and bring me back to you, to your mother, to our home. He left you that early so that when he comes back, you'll not just have a father but also a grandmother. He kept on regretting how he should have brought you with him or that he should have made an alternative way to find me. I then told him that we need to go back. You grew up having no image of a father. You and your mother must have waited a long time. I hope you didn't hate your father, Julietta." I was shocked. I was moved. I was crying. Surge of emotions entered me as I listen to her story. He must have a hard time.

"It's no one's fault, lola. I understoond the sentiments of you, of dad, of mom. What's important is that we're here right? So where's he? Is he still having his roadtrips just like how mom has told me?" I asked giddily wiping the tears of my face. The face of my grandmother suddenly became sullen. "Unfortunately, when we're about to flee home just in time for Christmas three years ago, when he's about to pick me up, he ran into a car accident. I'm so so sorry, Julietta."

We were crying. I was so devastated. Ron, my first love, my father, has died just when he's to return and fulfill his promise for me. It's a hard thing to accept as everything felt so surreal. But then, I learned how we shouldn't delve in the past, just like what I've said. That we should focus more on the present, on what's still here. On who's still here,

We visited my father's grave before going back home and it was very sad, how I indeed found my first love but in his tomb. I didn't even got to introduce to him, Al, my one true love, who helped me throughout this journey and the other journeys I have in my life. To Ron, my dad. It's a misfortune we didn't got to see him, that I was not able to spend more time with him, that I was not able to ride trips with him. But I am still thankful because just when

I was searching for him, I discovered a part of me, the part of me seeking beyond comfort zones. A part of me who's not afraid to open her ventures to a new environment. And most importantly, a part of me who learned how to accept the sad truth of past.

I'll forever cherish my first love, my father, Ron. No matter how much fate has been cruel, I'll always remember him to be the dad I have in my heart, in my soul, in my mind. Always.

The Nightmare Town Willian Cel Payumo

There was a girl and a boy named Ziera and Bodarn. They have a powers that Ziera can do mindreading and heal people suffering zombie disease and she is pretty, kindness, powerful, loving,cooperative, and smart girl. Bodarn can do transform into wolf and protect people to zombies and he is playful, protective, caring, great leader, and very strong boy. One day in the town of Demacia they experiment a zombie disease because their town is very over populated and crowded. The zombie disease that they experiment spread very quickly because their town is small. Then Ziera decided help people suffering zombie disease she fight zombies and Bodarn decided help Ziera to protect their town. They meet in Demacia town because Bodarn heard Ziera that she needs help to fight zombies Bodarn have a strong hearing because he is a wolf. Bodarn and Ziera help each other to cure and to fight the zombies they finish all the zombies and her partner she starts healing those who suffering in zombie disease. After that the town of Demacia is back in the normal no more zombie and no more zombie disease and sadly the result of making a zombie disease cause a lost people and the population of their town was decreased because there’s a lot of people can’t handle their body the disease and they died. But after that the president of their town was very thankful to Bodarn and Ziera and the president said that they will not make anymore disease and he said that if there town is overpopulation they will gonna solve it in a good way to overcome their problem and he realize a lot and that happen in their town was became a big lesson in his life.

Nonsense and Knights, A Short Story Gabriel Simsuangco

“What a luxurious day of nothingness.” says a young man with reddish brown hair slicked back in a unkempt manner. The full of energy youth skips around a humble village named Ham Town.(the name was coined by tourists from their notoriety for ham production.) He stumbles upon numerous familiar people and greets them. “Great afternoon to you, budding romance!”

“Yo, how’s it going gramps?”

“Kids, I got you some candy I bought from my last bounty.” 

The crimson haired youth then began to introduce himself, believing it to be quite comical to pretend he is in a story and is the main character. 

“Readers, you can call me Angeles, or your new boyfriend, or Mr. No Ambition, I know, I know, I’m a a serial flirt. Take a cup of keg every time a fair maiden’s father wanted my head on a platter. This lucky devil is still alive and kicking though. Funny I say that since I’ve been struck by misfortunes for my whole life I think.” 

Angeles continues to monologue to himself. 

“Angeles, me, is a mercenary who lives bounty to bounty. I’m no goody two shoes hero, I do things if I find benefit in them, I wouldn’t go out of my way to help someone if it would mean an inconvenience to me. Honestly, I don’t really loathe mercenary work, I could never imagine myself living a life of amazing wealth, that just isn’t me. I’m perfectly fine with just living, yeah, living.” 

Angeles rambles on and on until he stumbles on a beast threatening to attack a family of three. No questions asked, Angeles unsheathes his sword and runs to save them.(The daughter of the family was a “cute chick” as Angeles would say.)

The mercenary slays the beast with little to no effort despite the beast being quite fearsome even for a mercenary. (Angeles has always been quite talented, he just never seemed to want to apply himself.)

The family holds great gratitude towards Angeles and gives him 30 silver coins(This is a good amount when considering that he is a mere merc.), the philandering Angeles rebuts by inviting the girl to a date. Which he was denied, of course, even a naive girl would know

Angeles is a hopeless serial flirt. 

“Eh, whatever, this amount can get me a good time later tonight!” says Angeles nonchalantly. Though Angeles got quite the sizeable amount of money, he is completely broke and stupid the little times he has money. 

Angeles decides to go to the Kingdom Venrais which is near Ham Town, for a good time. He stumbles upon an unfortunate child being dragged away. 

His mind is filled with hesitation.

“That’s none of my business, none of YOUR business, Angeles. You aren’t the hero of the story!” 

He convinces himself while gripping his sword and a mysterious figure watches him, as if assessing the character of our hesitant protagonist. 

“NONE OF MY BUSINESS!” he shouts to himself, in his head of course. Letting go of the sword he had holstered on his hip. 

A glimmering knight of splendor, smacks Angeles and grabs him to follow this kidnapping, the glimmering knight was enchanting to Angeles, as this was the hero he believed he could never be.(Mainly because he was a lazy mess.) 

“Hey! Get off me, man!” Angeles gripes and moans while being lifted by the knight. “Coward...” says the knight in a soft yet also stern voice.

Angeles is silenced and just complies. Definitely because if he resistance would mean utter defeat against the mighty knight. The knight carries him so skillfully yet stealthily as well. Angeles is surprised because he is quite the heavy person. They successfully trail the criminal. Following him to an abandoned warehouse. 

The criminal looks both ways and comes in, not detecting those who were sneaking up on him. The knight drops him carelessly, as if holding no respect towards scum like Angeles. 

The knight then proceeds to remove the helmet shrouding the knight’s identity. To Angeles’ shock, it was a female!(A beautiful one at that! Angeles is going crazy.) 

“You, you’re a girl!? WHAT!?” Angeles screams quietly to the best of his ability. “And?” 

The female knight says apathetically. “What’s your name? Names are important to a person like me, y’know?” The still shocked merc quips. 

“I don’t give names, especially to the scum of the earth. The knight of all knights.” The knight says coldly. 

Angeles silent cries and silences himself, the female knight proceeds to the warehouse. In there, they discover multiple abducted people and the female knight runs immediately. While the cowardly scum(of the Earth) stands there and watches dumbfoundedly. 

Multiple criminals were easily dispatched by the knight, and Angeles, finally not being the fool he is, runs to free the abducted people. One evaded the sights of the knight and was after her throat, Angeles quickly takes him out and saves the knight from certain death. 

“Damn it!” The female knight screams instead of thanking Angeles for saving her life. 

Angeles yet again is dumbfounded and questions why he even saved this evil not honorable knight. He then realizes he’s a total flirt and says nothing.

“Aha aha. Make your peace.” one of the petty thugs blurted out. Bleeding out the thug mutters, “You fools, you don’t know what the hell you just did.”

“A death sentence is what this is! You mess with the Death God Gang, you’re basically dead meat. Our boss will hunt you down. This so called honorable kingdom is nothing but a rathole of crime, and the Boss controls the whole kingdom. You better turn tail and run away that is if you even can! Ahahahaha.” With a final cough, the thug dies with a morbid smile on his face. 

The pair process this information and come with different conclusions. The knight wants to topple this “Death God Gang” while the cowardly Angeles did not even want anything to do with this. 

“I’ll finish them. I have to, as a knight of Venrais. My skill should be enough to attain victory.” the knight says confidently. Angeles mumbles, “Oh man, what did I get myself into? I’m so dead . I just wanted to have some fun at the pub.” and he proceeds to cry and whine. 

“Look, merc with the messy hair, stop crying and whining, It’s not like I even asked for your help. I’ll destroy them before they even get to touch your bottoms.” Angeles ponders and ponders even more. 

He decides to help, since he thinks he’s dead he might as well go out gun’s blazing. Also he thinks that the knight is pretty and wants to score a date despite her rough behavior.(Angeles is hopeless.) 

“Look, knight, I’m dead, I know that. I want a new perspective on things, so I guess you could say I wanna die even earlier(and that I kinda like you) so I have decided. Ms. Knight, I’ll die with you.” 

Angeles musters all the confidence he still has and says that. “Deana.” The knight says.

“Deana?” 

Angeles asks. “My name” the knight declares confidently, “ It is not particularly unknightly to accept outside help. You can act as my body shield and slave during this whole skirmish. Also, who said anything about dying, have you not witnessed my superior bladework?” says Deana in a surprisingly joking manner. 

Angeles smiles at her and they proceed to plan out their next move.

-end-

[epiphanyblog03]

                   COMPILATION OF UNCONVENTIONAL POEMS

Michael Bautista US people can be the light for the others to follow some aid for some assistance which can we can help to be better. Those who believe for the change of future to those who wanted to acquire peacefulness to those who wanted to overcome obstacle to those who acknowledge their ability will succeed in the future and with the help of our great leaders they can lead us to above great victory

Bea Campo "YESTERDAY" I saw it coming, I just didn't give it much of a thought. Now you're no longer in my arms, Break the pinky promise that we had from the past. Shivering from all the pain, Because I know it will never be the same. Nor memories will remain, It will fade in the end of May.

Hannah Cunanan  "Time Ahead" You are planned very well, I constructed you precisely, Even it is still far, I can already taste the success, I might not know what it holds, Bu I already visualize you, Nothing is sure, Everything is blur, Hoping for you to happen, Since you give me aspiration,

Karole Eco Never stop hoping for a brighter tomorrow  just how you wanted to reach for the stars

Arshlee Gabiola We live in a world where we cannot predict future but can be possible as long as we believe there is nothing we can do but to do  our best it is uncertain but I believe it will be better, better as the days goes by where everything you plant will surely grow, harvest it and rejoice. But for the meantime enjoy what you have, you are the one who will create your future

Glezette Garcia "Futurum" The future feels so far away. You won't know what will happen in the future. However, the future is constantly edging closer to us. It is unexpected that you must constantly be ready. Life is a carousel that never stops moving forward. Take a look forward rather than backward. Because who knows? Who knows what will happen tomorrow? There’s no way to know what the future will bring. The future arrives so soon and is already there. Just be patient and always have faith in time. Remember that, future is always a future There will always be soon.

Maxene Valerie Mandap "Tear Drop" What makes a tear, a tear? A tear can make my heart bright. A tear can clean my future bright.  A tear can ignite the fire in my heart where I can begin from the very start. I see myself studying hard for the future. Where my knowledge’s being nurtured. I may not see what the future holds, but i’ll work hard for it to have a mold. A tear.

Nichole Jay Marcelo "FUTURE" The future is uncertain we cannot see but vou can free to think to obtain. We don't know our distination and our future, no one said it would be easy in this world full of fantasy. Still we hold on determine to win the battle until our heart and mind is at peace that's the only time we'll settle.

Eunice Pangan "Light of the future." What lies ahead We will never be sure of The chapters are still untold Tomorrow remains to be unknown Into the vast of uncertainties Be hopeful of multiple possibilities For in the future we will see the bright path to be paved Let the light guide us to this uncertainty this unknown vast that we know as the Future

Willian Payumo  A sparkle way up high one to make all your wishes upon high in the nightmare sky blinking like a broken traffic light shining above us like a canopy with holes punched in it growing bright each night we look up at them in amazement they old our hopes and dreams their twinkle assures us that very thing will be alright star 

Gabriel Simsuangco I just want to be free. It seems time is moving too fast. Do I need to pay for that, a fee? For a future that would last Then you came into my sight, Shining through my sealed door. You and your light. A future, I would risk it all for. Dreams like these could never come true. Maybe it’s just wishful thinking. The future, like a bird that gracefully flew. I just feel myself sinking.

[epiphanyblog03]

Bautista, Michael: It’s been a long day missing someone’s hug As the time passes by let’s listen to music and put on some earplugs Been thinking of it we cannot tell people to come back Let’s admit it they will never be back Let us face the truth look forward and dream new You will realize the aftermath that someone will be there for you I will try to sleep very well And I hope that you also feel well

Campo, Maria Beatriz: I keep having these nightmares, Where I find myself standing next to you.  Caressing your body with the sheet of blue, Hoping it was all true. When future you was already new, I'll be standing next to you and comfort you.

Cunanan, Hannah: "CHILDHOOD"

Grey skies, twit twit of birds, rains arrival, Weather bulletin outspread already, Noise from neighbors that keeps you up ready, Someone is playing an instrumental, You were drinking milk and eating cereal, Enjoys the show that's airing already, Wearing pajamas feel full already, These are the days when it feels magical, Looking back makes me emotional,  Realizing everything happened fast, Inblink. of an eye, I'm in reality, Everything remembered feels personal. Remembered how my active interest, Well know I faced.responsibility.

Eco, Karole: Have you ever had nostalgic feeling? Keeping all of the memories in mind When we had the best moments of our lives We did nothing except play and have fun. We were never concerned about a thing, There were no anxieties and issues, Never an uneasiness or a doubt, Had all of the sleep we never asked for,  Even the smallest things made us happy. We also had the silliest desires, Believed that everything was possible, Almost nothing can stop us at that point. We should just have seized it while we were there Oh, how I wish I could go back in time.

Gabiola, Arshlee Shereen: "GONE"

Don't blame yourself for things you did before choices, chances, decisions you didn't take memories of all those days, nights are gone just lets not bring the part back anymore Do not do something that you will regret it's hard to live life you cannot reset the past will always remain in the past live life to blast were it will ever-last Before life is so dark, darker than black so weak that can be easily attack an error that I made that caused the crack once it is done there is no going back That existence is long gone and over  grow and more on and take things much slower.

Garcia, Glezette: "PRAETERITUM"

As I sit and ponder in the window The rainy weather reminds me the past The sound of rain, I hear from the window The shouts and laughter of the past, all last These streets were once filled with laughter   The joy we had, never can we replace  When time’s not hard, when our life was better All we think about  was our hiding space       All the games we used to play till night time Were so precious I still remember them  We enjoyed those times, we lost track of time ‘Til  mom call us back,  those times were a gem We are unable to go back in time The past memories that make us alive.

Mandap, Maxene Valerie: "WINTER NIGHT"

Shall I compare thee to a winter night? As cold as the snow falling in the sky Shouting, trembling, thundering as we fight  Little did I know, thy last word's goodbye  Yes, thee made me produce a thousand tears Thee made me overthink my decisions Thee made me feel happiness under fear  Thee made me experience worst oppression But all these things had happened in the past  All these things are buried deep in the ground  I am thankful all these things did not last These things are thrown in the water and drowned I grasp the reality that I'm out  Of a love that's not really meant to sprout.

Marcelo, Nichole Jay: I remember the past, it is Confirmedly last real life Experience to count it at last. Learned a lot and understood Better and some happen will makep Future healthier. Life is hard but do not quit and learned happen in past

Pangan, Eunice: "ONE GHOSTLY NIGHT"

The wind whistles into the ghostly night; I can still remember those days with pride  Silently loud sounds of crickets fireflies; I cannot help but hear the bells of time As I go back to the memory lane, The fire within my heart recalls the days Of where we were youthful, filled with hope When life was simple, when life seems to glow Looking back, I had lived with no regrets,  With days of joy and days of blood and sweat Those memories I will forever keep, along with all the people I spent with;  In this ghostly night, the sun in slumber Till last breath, my glimpse of past won’t falter.

Payumo, Willian Cel: My former life is no longer, The Flying hours nad passed like transient dreams given over, Whose images are kept in store, From memory alone.

What will happen in the future is not, Then now can it be mine? My only concern is win the present moment, Wake up in a new life never remember your past life.

Do you ever wish you nod a key? That allowed you to do what you wanted to do, Discover some luck that's meant just for you, To actually be where you want to be.

Avoid wasting time by creating a plan, Do your best grab life while you can.

Simsuangco, Gabriel: Oh, the future I fear very much so. Clouded and muddied, a feeling in my eyes. Dear optimism, I hold onto you though. Sorrow, nothing, false hopes and lies. But what else do I have, hopes to bear? This blindness of mine.. Pity could never drown the sorrow. Hoping that things will be better in time. Humming those moody blues. Finding something to hold onto. But these sorrows, far too true. I just want a future to cling to. 

The future is a monster, But she is a friend. Talk about the past But the past, it never ends.

Fair lady of the past, I know you will haunt me until future's last.