Love Story

When i first saw her, i shooed her away. I hated it everytime that one eye of her stares blankly at me and moving her head from side to side as if asking what i am doing. up until now, i do not understand why she likes to stand behind my door. Goddamit! I hated it. She leaves an awful mess whenever i step out of the room. one day, i could not take it anymore. i hastily dragged her downstairs and outside the house with a stern warning that if she ever comes back in my life, i will have her kicked out of the house literally.

she cried days and nights. The funny thing is somehow, those muffled cries got into me. I felt sorry. And to make matters worse, i kinda felt that i missed her so i invited her in. when i opened the door, she jumped onto me as if i have been gone for centuries. yeah yeah... i hate to admit it but... i think i love my sister's one eyed dog now. that is my love story.

you... what have you done lately?

Who Am I

"Who am I?", an age-old question that even the greatest philosophers of our time can not provide even an ounce of persuasive response. Decartes in a seemingly inebriated state uttered "cogito ergo sum!" without a magic wand while Heraclitus got stuck on his "One and the Many" concept as their explanation. Several fields of study have been established, numerous treatises have been written, countries going to war, body counts increased, seas of blood and tears wasted just to be able to come up with the answer to this question, "Who am I?". There maybe some hints from here and there but still, these are not conclusive as to who I really am.

When I first encountered the question, I thought that this is elementary. But as I delve deeper in contemplation for a response to this question, realization struck me that I myself do not have the answer to this rudimentary query. So rudimentary indeed that the question is closely associated with the notion of Urstoff, a concept concerning a primordial matter raised by a supposedly inquisitive individual now long dead and gone. Yeah, he died without coming up with a really good answer goddamit!

Meanwhile, I found myself being a part of several academic institutions in my pursuit of my own answer to the question. I looked for the answer in philosophy and law and yet the answer to the question still escapes me. I also looked for it in music, sex, drugs, alcohol, piercings, mosh pits, fist fights but only to realize that these things only drew me farther and farther to my goal.

There are times that I only come to know about myself according to the perception of others. I learned that i used to have a girl's legs when i was younger from my grandma; that i sometimes snore when I sleep according to my girlfriend; that I drive like I am driving a funeral car according to my sister-in-law; that I looked like Kapitan Boom according to a text message from a psychotic ex days ago; that I am an ass sometimes according to my younger sister, so on and so forth. However, all these observation fails to explain the very essence of my existence. It failed to answer questions like why am i here in the first place? Why i react this way? What would I do to get from point A to point B? Why am I being an ass sometimes as alleged by my sister? Unlike other living and soulless creature or inanimate objects, why can't anyone predict my fate? measure potentials? Formulate a catalyst that can draw out a positive or negative response from me with pinpoint accuracy?

All the while i thought after being through with so much bullcrap in my life, i can come up with something that would entitle me to get at least a grace point for this endeavour. Well, i guess i failed. With a cigarette on one hand, I thought of what to say about my life.. about who i am.. I thought of it so hard that i can feel a vein fiercely throbbing over my forehead as if it's going to explode. Only to realize that i have been slapped on the face with the truth that after living life for several years, i may have a general idea of who i am like i am 27 years old, single, an owner of a one-eyed dog, a complacent post graduate student but the fact still remains that i have no idea who i really am... for all you and i know, i might just be Superman if i start wearing my brief outside my pants... which by the way, i am starting to seriously entertain now since it is raining hard outside and i do not want my jeans to get wet.

Beer Tragedy

Last night, i went out with some friends in Quattro Timog. We were on table D7. The table was a little messy. It showed some signs that somebody gobbled down a beer and for some reason unknown to me, seemed to have left in a hurry. i called the attention of the waiter in a mafioso manner like in the 80's movie (to quote our department manager). We ordered the quezon city's finest macho mags. Oh! the sight of red horse overflowing on the gigantic mugs. If only i could swim inside it, I'd be stripping down my clothes right there. I managed to keep my composure over the thought and savor the taste of beer in silence, leaving nothing but ice on the bottom of the mug.

Out of nowhere, this lady approached me. What a beautiful sight! She got these rosy cheeks and a smile embroidered in braces. She got a tattoo on her ass... yes, this is one thing that can get my eyes off my macho mug. I knew she would be selling me something. i knew it would be overpriced. I chanted this fact in my head over and over... until she began to lean over and speak closely on my ear.

"Sir, are you interested in buying this marlboro lights with free lighter..."

I am pretty sure she was still uttering something but i can't make out the words that came out after that for i was consumed with the lovely scent of her breath and the graceful movement of her mouth.

After that encounter, i found myself P100 poorer than ever and a lighter to remind me of my folly.

Letters

A growing obsession...
A yearning in every clicks and backspaces...
A wish for a glimpse...
Of that angelina jolie smile

A pop up message...
An indifferent news of three hundred...
A question of her disposition...
Behind that angelina jolie pose

A post for submission...
A silent wish waiting to be granted...
Sealed a prayer that behind the letters...
Behind the thoughts about unfamiliar territories...
That feelings would somehow be revealed.

A stifled feeling...
Like a renewed grace point in the morning...
None that a warning can kill...
None that a letter can tell.

What Is A True Writer

I just would like to share what i've written as an entry to a short essay writing contest by my boss. I don't know if i am allowed to do this but what that the heck! as if he got time to read this blog. Here goes:

I remember a story told by a lady professor of mine back in college about an award-winning literary piece and if my memory serves me right, it was entitled “A Bashful One”. She told us that the only thing written in that poem was the title and a plain period right in the middle of it. Upon hearing this, we laughed at first only then to realize that the message was quite clear. If the person uttered something on that poem then that would not make him or her a bashful one, is it not?

What then is the basis for being a true writer given that a simple punctuation mark can reveal so much to others? I opine that a true writer is one who can clearly and creatively convey his thoughts to the readers. All other things are just guidelines to be followed for purposes of convenience and order.

Colors of Manila Bay

It was by mere accident that I trampled and witnessed the magnificent and awesome beauty of the sun as it gradually slides down the border of Manila Bay. The fact that I did not have my camera with me at that moment, I was disheartened but then a firm resolution was formed that I shall capture the beauty I have just witnessed the following day.

Hoping to shoot the exact glorious world famous sunset at Manila bay that I have seen, I was dumbfounded and surprised to learn that what laid before me was yet another masterpiece... far different from what I hoped and expected to capture the day before.

Wondering if there is ever a day that the sunset of Manila Bay would present a replica of its previous presentation, I frequented the place only to realize that Nature mysteriously paints different masterpieces for each day, using different array of colors, different arrangement, different set of emotion and mood to avid onlookers silently sitting on the seawall.My quest to capture the colors of Manila Bay is a humbling experience for me. It led me to a realization that the sunset as best viewed in the said place is indeed an endearing reminder to all of us that God is present in nature... that he is an artist by heart... that God is a painter and Manila Bay is his canvas.

An Affair With An Angel

Going to mass before was not really my habit. I was not used to exposing myself especially in this bone-rattling evening. But I have heard that the six o’clock Mass is exciting because it is celebrated by energetic, expressive, and charismatic priest, fully charged with sense of humor. The priest is Father Ton. But nothing more excites me until I learned that the Mass is truly intended for teenagers like me. Unknown to everybody, I just wanted to hear the priest’s jokes and especially, I wanted to see and meet pretty ladies and nothing more. I have never ever expected that Sunday will be a memorable day for me… a memorable day of love, pain and faith.

One Sunday night, I was late for the six o’clock Mass. Inside the Church, the people were crowded together and all seats were occupied by church goers. I pushed through and insisted to look for some vacant seats but to no avail. I never found vacant chairs. I ended up standing beside the church’s window. It was raining heavily outside. Standing beside an open window is like standing in front of an air conditioner. Raindrops splashed on my face and drifted on my blue shirt. I felt the coldness creeping up and down my body. I was about to give up when someone called me.

“Mister”, called out by a gentle voice from behind. “I can see you’re wet. You can share the seat with me if you want to?”

“Praise the Lord! Alleluia!” Of course, I told myself. I don’t want to be the source of nuisance. I politely approached the lady who was offering her seat.

“Thank you”, I bashfully said as I sat beside her. She smiled and softly spoke, “Just pray you’ll not catch cold.”

I felt comfortable on my new cradle. I noticed that once in a while, the lady was glancing at me. I did catch her up. She saw that I was gazing at her too. She winced and immediately looked at the other direction.

The lady was not bad herself. In fact, she is beautiful. She got a pair of wondrously fine arched brows. She has these magnificent, mystical and soul-stirring brown eyes. Her nose having cute, fine curve, line glided down her red and elegant lips. Her white complexion manifested her fine reddish cheeks. Her simplicity had greatly showed all these. But what was really alluring about her was her smile. I noticed that she sings in great vivacity only to learn later on that I was sitting beside a member of the church choir.

“Let us give each other the sign of peace”, the priest invited.

I was thinking of knowing her and that moment was timely event for me to know her. I turned towards her and said;

“Peace be with you Miss…”, I intended to cut the word and expected her response.

“Andrea, Andrea Valdez”, she replied.

“What a gorgeous name!” I said giving of my sexiest smile. “I’m Ron Villegas down Calvin Drive.”

There was still a heavy downpour outside when the mass had ended. The streets were flooded and darkness began to clothe the place. I saw Andrea having trouble getting a taxi cab. I approached her.

“It’s hard to get a taxi cab in this kind of weather. I’ll be very happy to drive you home if you wish”, I assuredly uttered.

She looked at me with doubts and hesitations. “Shall I trust this guy?”

“Eh, ah, I want to repay you for your kindness,” I spoke awkwardly, “if not for you, I might have a flu or pneumonia, or bronchitis, or cancer, or…”, reciting all the possible diseases that might attack me which could cause my death.

“Ah, Ron”, she spoke at last.

“Yes”, I replied with a grin.

“Will you really take me home?” She shyly asked.

I smiled and said, “Yes, trust me.”

I am very fortunate to have a father who entrusted his BMW to a fifteen year old son like me. Though it was still heavily raining, I drifted towards the parking lot. It was like crossing a river bank. I stirred my car and drove towards the church’s façade and fetched the awaiting Andrea.

We talked so many things inside the car. Andrea had pretty clever stories. I learned that while she was still young, her grandmother used to bring her to church every day. I laughed at her when she told me that she wanted to become a nun. I didn’t believe what she said.

In the morning the rain subsided and everything went back to normal. The sun brightly shone in the east, spreading golden streaks to illuminate the whole land. The endless clear blue sky was a magnificent hall of infinity. I felt disturbed. I yearned for the angelic face of Andrea. I looked up the sky only to see utter emptiness. I have felt a strong desire of seeing her. Then I remember that she gave me her phone number. I called her up but she was not there. She was staying in their house in Dillon Ville to take care of her sick grandmother.

I thought of coming there. So, I brought some fresh flowers for Andrea and her grandmother. Andrea was sitting in the veranda watching passersby when she caught sight of me.

“What a pleasant surprise,” Andrea greeted. “Why are you here? How did you know this place?” she surprisingly asked me.

“I want to see you and see how’s your grandmother. I hope that you and your grandmother will be delighted with these flowers”, I explained as I handed over the flowers.

“How sweet!” she exclaimed.

“Would you like to come in?” she asked in jovial stress.

I felt a hush of energy enveloping my whole body, driving me to come in. But I was hesitant and a bit shy when Andrea suddenly hoisted my hand and confidently dragged me inside their house. She introduced me to her grandmother who was leisurely sitting on the sofa. Her grandmother looked fine and had recovered from her sickness. Andrea’s grandmother was very much pleased of my visit. We talked a jovial and sensible conversation. We all laughed. At times, her grandmother teased us of being a perfect match. Andrea blushed while I was whimsical.

Her grandmother’s house was very old but wondrously constructed. It reflected a magnificent, elegant and well build structure of simplicity and beauty. I was seized by so much amazement when Andrea toured me in their house. They had a family library with great books where the study hall was just adjacent. A serene and marvelously built mini-chapel near their garden mystically stood. Their collections of antiques and rare statutes were manifestations of deep appreciation for art and beauty. Expensive decorations and ornaments adorned their house. The furniture and fixtures were magnificently made and decorated. But nothing more amazed me than their awesome garden. It had a perfect landscape where lush and verdant meadows rested. Lilac, orchids, roses, bonsai and many rare species of flowers unknown to me where there. The garden looked like an oasis – a garden in a rainforest hundred years ago preserved and nurtured.

Even though Andrea didn’t tell me, I could sense that she was pleased with my visit. I felt that she was pleased with my visit. I felt that she enjoyed being with me and I felt the same too. That visit was not my last, I often came into their house. Sometimes, they invited me for dinner.

My day was not complete if I could not see her. We had happy days together until Andrea’s grandmother passed away. There was nothing I can do but to comfort her in those mournful moments in her life. I don’t know why I feel so sad every time I saw Andrea crying. There was a time she hugged me so tightly and cried on my shoulders. I let her pour out all her sorrows and pain. I knew it was good for her. Andrea’s sorrow has imprinted a pang of pain in my heart. I tried my best to make her happy. I promised to myself not to make her sad and lonely. Yes, I have fallen in love with her. I do love her and promised to seek her own good. I was young but I do love her.

One Sunday evening during the Mass, in a deeply sad tone Andrea told me, “Ron, I am leaving the town”, as she turned her head away from me. I almost shed tears in utter sorrow. I knew she was serious but I managed to keep my composure and said in a jovial mood, “so, where do you think you are going? Hongkong to shop…Las Vegas to…Why don’t?”

“Ron, Ron!”, Andrea uttered while looking at me intently, “I am leaving in order to serve God.” She looked at me tenderly and crystal drops of tears rolled down her cheeks. She looked at me tenderly and crystal drops of tears rolled down her cheeks.

“A nun?”, I sighed.

“I love you”, I muttered hoping that these words will hold her back.

“No, please don’t”. She stooped trying to hide the tears.

“Are those tears mean that you love me too?” I tenderly replied.

“Yes”, she answered sincerely, “but please don’t confuse me more. Yes, there is something here that I feel every time that I am with you. But God calls me since I was a little child and in fact this is for you, for my family, for all of them who need my help and prayers…please understand.”

“I do understand. I think there is nothing more I can do to hold you back. But are you sure?” I painfully uttered.

“Yes Ron”, she insisted.

I stood up and turned away from her. But she held my hand. I don’t like her seeing me downcast. I am supposed to be a cool dude. It’s like against my nature to be feeling that way and behaving so.

“Ron, please don’t blame God for this, okay? I love you so dearly but I do love Him more and I want to serve and follow Him. Promise me that you’ll also follow His will.” She softly begged while gently caressing my hair as if wanted to tame my feelings down.

I nodded. Silence clothed the two of us. The whisper like conversation of the priest and the parishioners in the sacristy and the hallow steps of the passersby were the only serenity of the altar. I sought appeasement there. I can see the angelic face of Andrea projected on the image of the lady saint in the altar. My mind and heart wrestled against each other. I wanted to shout and protest against God, but no voice went out of my throat. I can only feel the throbbing of my heart. Warm tears rolled down my cheeks.

“Ron…Ron”, Andrea moaned.

I can feel the intense affection she wanted to let me feel. She wanted me to lovingly accept that affection…even for the last time.

“Andrea…Andrea”, I softly uttered while tenderly holding her hand.

Distance between us vanished and we felt the unifying force. The feeling was almost unbearable. Distance was an agony. We rested in the sweetness of affection. Little by little, we drew closer to one another…and closer…and closer. What an indescribable feeling of love and affection I felt when our lips met. I realized that Andrea was part of me. Time stopped. All sounds ceased. What a sweet and ecstatic feeling we both shared.

I understand that she wanted me o feel her for the last time…to touch for the last time…to kiss for the last time. A kiss out of love – out of pure love!

Then we realized that we were inside the church. I never felt guilty because I did kiss her without malice but out of love and affection. She never regretted that act of love. I lifted up her chin and looked at her tenderly. She closed her eyes. An invitation for another encounter of that sweet and affectionate gesture. My face moved slowly towards her lips once more. Then we went out of the church. My steps were heavy but I still drove her home.

That night I couldn’t sleep. I thought of many things. I reminisced the past. All those sweet and beautiful memories were once again slated in my memory with sharp vividness. I cannot but utter Andrea’s name in great respect and longing while tears flooded my cheeks.

Before, I thought of romantic movies as baloney. But now, I realized that I am going baloney. I found myself waking up in the middle of the night craving for her presence. I awoke every morning with tearful eyes. Sometimes, I suddenly stirred my car towards their house. My heart trembled whenever I saw the deserted yard. I jumped over the fence and rolled down the lawn. Like a little child forsaken by his mother, I made a deep wail uttering her name. Her absence crippled me and I felt a sudden numbness. I found myself kneeling in front of their door begging God she would come back. I was all alone in that place where I found love and happiness before. But now, pain and frustration – bitterness! What I have had was taken away from me.

That experience had never stopped me from attending the Holy Mass. In fact, every time I attended Mass, I would always remember Andrea. I often sit on the seat we used to occupy before. In fact, whenever I attended Mass the “memory” of Andrea is truly present. She is in my heart and in my mind. Andrea and I had a very beautiful “love story”.

Years passed and attending the Holy Mass became my conscientious habit. At first, I attended Mass because of Andrea. But now, I attended Mass because of Him. A new feeling and enthusiasm had emerged deep within me. I have realized the most essential thing in life – the life in the Eucharist which is the source of happiness.

Now, my attention and whole consciousness is focused on the content and spirit of the Holy Eucharist. I have realized that the Holy Eucharist is the “Love Story” of God and man in the everlasting covenant of love. The Holy Mass is the sublime divine drama of life in which the love of God is manifested. In the Holy Mass, Christ is offered to the Father for the propitiation of our sins in an unbloody manner. What a great realization! The Holy Mass is the greatest Love Story ever told by God to man. Yes, because the Son of God offered Himself on the cross. He died a horrible death and has risen from the dead in order to save us! I have realized how great is the love of the Lord for all of us. And the Holy Mass is a constant remembering of “anamnesis” of that love. Because in the Holy Mass, Christ continually gives Himself to us as the Bread of Life that we partake. The Mass is the source of life and of love! Truly, “happy are those who are called to His banquet”.

“The Mass has ended, let us go to love and serve the Lord”, the priest exclaimed.

I peacefully walked out of the Cathedral. Inner peace and happiness flooded my whole being. As I reflected on all these things, I still remember Andrea. Andrea, the love of my life who has also given up her life to love and serve the Lord. Andrea who accompanied me to find Him through the Holy Eucharist. I still love her but I love her for the sake of the love of God. I cannot posses her because she is for God. I don’t feel pity for her and I should not be pitied for. I feel very happy for her because I know that our love is directed towards a higher cause – for the glory of God. I thanked the Lord because I did not hinder her goal of becoming a nun. Much more, that experience led me to a higher kind of love – the love of the Holy Eucharist which extends to the love of my neighbors.

The Leaf

Friday morning, I prepared myself for my regular schedule of hearing confession. I sat inside the confessional booth and started to listen to the sins of my parishioners. After their confessions, I gave them my “fatherly” advice. All is well until a lady approached the booth not to confess but to ask for counseling from me. From the tone of her voice, I could sense that the lady was in her mid 20’s. Her voice seemed familiar. I listened attentively.

“Father, can you give me some advice?” She started. “I will be wed next week. I have a good and understanding boyfriend. I love him too, but my feelings for a childhood friend kept haunting me. I cannot take him out of my mind and my heart. I feel that I still love him,”

The lady seemed deeply troubled and I presupposed she greatly needed proper guidance and counseling.

“Father,” she continued, “I have a strong feeling that we will meet again for he promised before that he would be back. He even gave me a LEAF as a sign of his promise…”

“What? A leaf? D…D…Diana, is it you?”

“Yes.” Her voice foretold she was also surprised. “Diana, it is me, Richie!”

“Richie?...Rich…? Rich…?

“Yes, it is me Diana, Richie, your childhood friend.”

Diana was my closest childhood friend. We were in the same school in Kalibo. I used to fetch her in their house and let her ride on my “Hot Rod” – my big cart’s name. Because we had many books to bring, heavy enough for me to carry, I was bringing my “Hot Rod” so that I could place all my stuff as I went to and from school. During Saturdays, Diana and I played in their backyard. We would climb trees and lay under their shades eating fruits if there were any.

There was that one very memorable Saturday. That was, few weeks before Christmas. Diana and I were sitting under a tree, watching its leaves as they glided with the soft breeze.

“You know Rich,” Diana started, “When I grow up, I want to be a nurse, a wife with five children, and my husband will be…”

“Who?” I eagerly asked. “You.” Diana whispered.

“What? Me?” I was really astonished.

“Why, is there somebody…that knew a girl in Mr. Temporaza’s house?”

“Oh no, not really. I only admire her because she’s kind and…”

“Beautiful?” Diana interrupted. She looked at me dearly and asked, “Do you like her?”

I could sense that she would cry if I answered positively.

“Well of course, I like her, but, I like you more. You know, you have a very special place in my heart and you will be here always…forever.” I put my hand on my chest like a poet narrating his piece on stage.

“Calm down, don’t you know that you are more pretty when you’re nearly crying?” She smiled and threw some dried grasses at me. The atmosphere was filled with laughter and happiness. That was also the last time I heard Diana laughing.

The following morning, my parents told me that shocking news. We had to move out soon because of some business reasons.” I immediately ran toward the house of Diana. Luckily, I saw her in their garden. I told her about the sad news and I could see tears in her eyes. I took the opportunity to bid her goodbye.

“Remember what I’ve told you. You have a special place in my heart, always and forever. I promise…to…be back.” I hardly uttered my words. I almost cried. I turned back so that she could not see my crying.

“Rich,” she come to me and hugged me, “Keep your promise.” I could feel her tears on my shoulders.

“I will.”

I kissed her on her cheeks as a sign of my farewell. I took a leaf from one of the plants and gave it to Diana.

“Take care of that leaf. That will be the symbol of my everlasting love for you and I’ll be back.”

Upon saying those words, I left Diana with tears on her eyes. It was our last meeting. Two days later, our family left Kalibo for our new house in Iloilo. I couldn’t help myself but cry because I would never Diana again. I was enrolled by my parents in the seminary. Still, my feelings for Diana was not changed. I always remembered our shared happy moments; our “love story”. Later, I had learned from a friend that their family resettled in Manila. It was then that I tried my best to forget Diana. I engaged myself in my studies and in joining seminary activities I began to discover Jesus. I established an intimate relationship with Him, with His grace, I am now a priest and presently assigned in this parish. I can’t imagine that I’ll meet Diana in this place again. Ah, for almost fifteen years… I still can’t imagine.

“I thought you’ll love me forever? Didn’t you promise to be back?” Diana’s voice was asking.

“Diana, God knows how much I love you. In fact, I tried my best to find you everywhere but it seemed God hid you from me, so that I can find Him. That I cannot share only my love for you, but for all the people I serve. I know that God did not abandon you and will never forsake you. Now, as you have said, He provides you with a good and understanding boyfriend to be your husband. He is…?”

“Cesar, Father, my boyfriend’s name is Cesar.” She is quite relieved now.

“Yes, Cesar! God gives you Cesar for you to be happy. For I have always prayed and will always pray for your happiness.

“Likewise, I do, Father Rich, maybe we are not really meant for each other. We have different vocations. God has plans for each of us. I also pray that we will find perfect happiness in the vocations we have chosen. Maybe God willed that we cross paths again so that we can be cleared of our perplexed feelings,” she concluded.

Although I could not see Diana’s face clearly, I could sense enlightenment in her. I was about to give her my final blessings, when…

“Father, you have not yet given me penance?! Diana said jokingly.

“Penance? You have not confessed your sins, have you? Anyway, since you ask for it, for your penance, invite me to your wedding and banquet and include me as one of the godfathers of your first-born child. Is it okay?”

“No problem!” She replied immediately and laughed. Again, I heard Diana’s laughter.

Finally, I gave Diana my blessings and she went off the confessional booth. After the confession, I knelt before the image of the Sacred Heart at the altar to pray. I could feel a strong wind blowing. As I opened my eyes, I eventually saw a dry leaf before me. In silence, I could hear my Lord saying: “That leaf is a sign of my everlasting love for you! I will never abandon you because you have a special place in my heart, and that you will here always…forever!”

The Saga of Demon Sacama (Ragnarok Online inspired story republished and continued)

PART I: THE FALL

it was high noon in the crowded streets of Prontera, a young boy hastily scampered his way into the busy crowd. with a sharp grin on his face, he was looking back once in a while to catch a glimpse of the group of angry blacksmiths who were apparently eager to get hold of him. the blacksmiths were so furious because the boy stole a very valuable item from one of them. the boy managed to climb his way up on the dilapidated roof of prontera inn. gasping for breath, he stooped down as to avoid being seen by the angry blacksmiths below. he waited and listened...

Mr Rich: m goona crushhh that kid!

Goldrush: aye! of ool things! why is it that "thing" has to be the one stoolenn ffrrom you?!

Ropha: graah! we are doooomed!if master hearsss about thisss, he will surely puuunish usss! you dimwit!

Ropha gave Mr. Rich a heavy pounce on the head which made a loud cracking sound that momentarily stopped the people around them. The kid giggled. He wished he was the one pounding that hairy ogre.

Mr Rich: Araaguyyy! Amf ka!

Ropha: That's nothing compared to what ourr master shall do to uss if we arre not to retrieve that device.

Mr Rich: The kid woould not make use oof it. i did not identify it yett..

Goldrush: Hmmm...

The kid was not able to figure out what the blacksmiths were saying next due to the racket coming from -StarPlayerMamo- and Poya Poya who were casting spells right in front of the PVP room below to draw attention and to show off their skills.

The thief at what the bard was singing. He always hated that song and those corny jokes that foolish bard's been yelling all over Prontera. The thief wished that he had some acorns with him to throw inside that stupid mouth of that stupid clown to keep his mouth shut for eternity, and this goes to that skinny dark groggy looking wizard as well. He hoped somebody would come up to them and say their breath stinks like an orc warrior! If only he can come out now, he'll personally make sure that those two will get the message.

But he can not afford to be careless now. He does not know what the blacksmiths were planning against him. And he had no idea what the item is all about. It looks like some sort of paper. It must be an imported kind, or perhaps made from a rare fiber or ingredient, because why else would these blacksmiths want it so bad?

The kid saw the blacksmiths leaving the area below. But he decided to stay put for a little longer just to make sure that they are gone. Suddenly, the old rooftop where he was hiding began to shake..

The pandemonium brought by the show that was going on below started to rattle the feeble and old structure where the thief was. And alas! the spot where he was caved in. Stunned by the fall, he gradually realized that he fell in a room on the second floor of the inn.

The mother and the child who were inside the room were shocked at what had happened. The son was crying his lungs out while his mother seemingly witholding the meat from the crying boy.

Mother: What the hell is goin on? where'd dya come from boy/?

Thief: Sorry Madam! God sent me from heaven.. err... what are you gonna do with that meat Madam?

Mother: My kid... he won't eat anything besides meat. i want him to eat his vegetables first before he gets this meat!

The mother gave a stern look at the boy. the boy profusely went on going .

Thief: In that case....

The thief grabbed the meat from the hand of the mother. He spitted on it and licked it all over and with one swift move stuffed all of it inside his mouth. With his mouth still full...

Thief: Now, listen to me boy... It's either you eat those damn vegetables or.... DIEEEEEEE!!!

Bits of grinded meat and saliva came out flying from the thief's mouth and onto the crying boy's face who was now so shocked with what the thief did. The mother was also shocked as he watched the thief scrammed towards the door. A loud "WAKEKEKE" echoed throughout the corridors of the inn...
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PART II: SHUT THE F*CK UP

After making sure that the blacksmiths that were looking for him were not around, the thief stepped outside the inn only to feel a sudden outrage upon seeing the bard and the wizard who caused his fall. oblivious of what they did, the two were busy showing off and while at the same time asking for friendster accounts from priestesses and dancers gathered around to watch the fireworks. to make the matter worse, they were joined by other wizards and some monks too. the lag is too unbearable anymore for the thief that he was not able to contain his composure plus the fact that he hated the songs and the stinking breath of the two.

Thief: AMFOOOTAAA!

Like a madman, the thief snatched Rhovi's Deviruchi pet. and with all his might, he threw it right onto Poya Poya's face. the trident of the squealing pet hit the wizard's two front teeth causing it to fall and render Poya Poya unconscious. The thief then ran towards Mistaken*Identity's Sohee pet and grabbed it by the neck and violently swung it to -StarPlayerMamo-. The bard was hit so hard that his joker jester fell off.

The thief was laughing so hard that he hardly noticed that the guildmates of the two were pissed off of what he just did. The guildmates of the battered players drew out their weapons and with fire in their eyes were inching towards him.

Thief: Uh oh... ahihihi! sayonara!

The thief gave chase. As he ran away, he stumbled upon the carts of merchants vending eluniums and padded armors outside the BS PIONT. "Kup@l ka!", "tae!" and all other cries from the merchants were heard from here and there.

When the angry mob was drawing close to him, he jumped in to join a group of novices gathering in the central isle of Prontera asking for alms. He created a pub asking for alms himself. He whispered to the novices...

Thief: Psst.. Don't tell me i'm here. i'll give you 10k each ok?

babym0k0: Ok po.. Promise po ha..

Thief: Promise. Y'see, people know me around here. I keep my word. In fact, m so well known that they want my autograph. Crazy huh? that's why they're all after me and that's why i'm hiding. So please, don't tell them i'm here. i'll give you my autograph for free.

Novices: weee! thank you po kuya!

The thief went unnoticed by the people after him. In Prontera, the beggars are frowned upon by its citizen. they are usually ignored by high leveled players that is why no wonder this trick worked for the thief. The angry mob passed by the group of novices where the thief was and moved on to the next street looking for him.

Paris Hilton: Kuya, they're gone. give us the 10k you promised...

Thief: Okay. First, here's my autograph... see, with matching picture! now, the 10k will be paid to you by the NPC's if you sell these autographs to them. a face like this is worth millions!

Novices: but kuya......

Thief: see ya! wakekeke!

The thief hastily ran off towards the tool dealer building. A sharp cry of "SCAAAMMMERRRR!" was heard from behind...
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PART III: ROYAL RUMBLE

The silver chimes hanging beneath the door of the entrance of the Tool Dealer shop clanged as the thief clumsily barged in. the Tool Dealer Shop was full with shoppers. That damn LUG gave times three XP again! No wonder Prontera is so crowded nowadays!

Some of the shoppers were busy checking out the upgraded armors by Hollgrehenn on one side while others were on the other side, adoring the newly released elemental weapons personally forged by the hands of Hardkore~~, the most famous forger in Midgard. Curious of what the great Hardkore~~ had come up this time, he walked towards the stall where the weapon area was. He elbowed people out of his way to get himself in front.

* WHAT THE??! *

* HEY! WATCH IT KID! * /ag

*UGH! *

Thief: Get out of my way! GET OUT OF MY WAY!

The thief finally got in front of the crowd and now he had a full view of the weapons on display. What captivated the thief among the magnificent set of armament was the Damascus made of ice. It has a small marking VVS on the upper portion of the handle. He wondered how could anyone create a knife out of ice? He giggled at the thought that the inscription means very very safe. If that is the case, that VVS Ice Damascus is perfect for him since he is so clumsy in using knives, he thought. He felt for his pocket to check whether he had enough zeny to purchase his weapon of choice. He felt nothing but a piece of paper he stole from those ugly blacksmiths. He was momentarily saddened but immediately arose to life upon remembering that the paper could be of value. He took out the paper to examine it. All he can see was some strange markings that he can’t make out what was written because it was blurred. This item needs to be identified, he thought. He decided to buy a magnifier from the Potion Shop.

The thief is not fond of going to the Potion Shop. In fact, he hated the place. The Potion shop looks like a boiler room. It is hot, dark and dirty. The only consolation to that horrific place is that lovely NPC selling the potions. The thief wondered how could that lovely lady withstand such hell? He went on the thought that the reason why the lady Potion seller can withstand such a hellish place is that she herself is evil. Anyhow, he needed to get to the Potion Shop to buy a magnifier for 40 z. But before leaving the Tool Dealer shop, he discreetly took 40 zeny from Two-One-Four’s back pocket who at that time was busy wooing Cori/\//\/e.

The thief finally reached the Potion Seller Shop which was not that far from the Tool Dealer Shop. Upon entering, the thief immediately caught eye of a figure sitting in the dimmed corner of the room. The figure was eerily silent. The light coming from the furnace reflected the man’s fiery eyes which were fixated to where the thief was standing. The man had a violet scarf wrapped around the lower part of his face. He was thin but was heavily covered by black tattered cloth. The thief was not sure but it was more like a ninja suit.

The thief started to feel nervous. His feet stiffened. He was battling with the idea whether to buy a magnifier and run or run now buy later.

Finally, the Potion Seller spoke in her usual sweet voice:

Potion Seller: Ei, Don’t you know that guy has been waiting for you for days? He’s just there sitting all day. I am glad you two finally meet. So.. what can I do for y..…

Thief: HUWAAAAAT??!! WAAAAAAA!

The man beneath the shadows gradually rose up.

BUT SUDDENLY…

Ropha, Goldrush, and Mr. Rich came barging in into the scene.

* AHA! *



The three blacksmiths each grabbed the thief by the hair, shoulders and the arms.

Goldrush: Bwahaha! I was right in my summation that this little bratttt will go herrre and get our “precioussss” identified.

Mr. Rich: Good game! Good game! Haha!

Ropha: Ahihihi!

Thief: Get off me! Get off mee! Let me go! Let me gooo! You creeps!

The thief was struggling and kicking himself free from the blacksmiths grasp when the man behind the shadows finally stepped forward. The man spoke in a mellow voice.

Man: Ehem… Excuse me… would you mind letting the boy go?

* HUH?! *

(ano kaya ang susunod na mangyayari? makukuha kaya ng mga blacksmith ang kanilang "precious" mula sa bida? ano ang binabalak ng mama sa dilim laban sa ating bida? nde kaya pedophile sha kaya nya tintulungan ang ating bida? ndi ko rin alam eh. abangan na lang natin ang susunod na mga tagpo)
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PART IV: HEAD OVER HEELS

The three blacksmiths were deeply perturbed with the stranger’s intrusion. It is not that often that they hear such a bold remark around here in Midgard especially coming from a stranger as thin as this one in front of them. People around here fear them. It is not because of Goldrush’s big black mole sticking on his nose, nor Ropha’s incongruent grin, nor Mr. Rich’s slimy yellowish teeth. The reason is that these three are members of the most notorious guild in Midgard. Everyone who dared opposing this guild ends up getting crush, his castle looted and goes to wrack and ruin.

Goldrush flung the thief on the side as the three blacksmiths slowly drew out their +10 triple bloody chains.

Goldrush: and who do you think you arre?! Do not you know who we arre?

Snotty little brat the thief was, he hid behind the pile of boxes to watch the unfolding of events. Unmindful of the actuations of the three, the stranger replied.

Stranger: I am Yorty. I do not know who you guys are. I just need to discuss something to that boy. And he will be no good to me if you beat him up.

Mr. Rich: Hahaha! Who arre you to tell usss what to do thin man?? That boy stole something from usss and the payment is death!

Yorty: He stole something from me too. I disagree that we have to resort to that though.

Goldrush: You arre in the wrrong place to make such demands thin man…

The blacksmiths started spreading out surrounding Yorty from each side. When suddenly Ropha exclaimed.

Ropha: Wahihihi! Look guys! He is wearing high heelsss! Wahihihi! Are you gay?? You are gay! You are gay! Transvestite thin man! Wahihihi!

Goldrush: Bwahahaha! What a joke!

Mr. Rich: For a minute there I got scared! Hahaha! A thin man on high heels! What a sight! Haha!

Yorty felt embarrassed for himself after learning that the people inside the room finally knew what he was hiding. The thief was also laughing behind the pile of boxes. No wonder Yorty looks familiar to him. But the little brat could not care less. Indeed it was an odd sight. And yes, this is the reason why the stranger was keeping himself in the dark.

Yorty: Umm… that is why I need to talk to that boy. That boy stole my green boots.

Goldrush: Oh yeah? Say bye bye to your green boots then! You wont be able to wear it when we’rre through with you thin man! Guyss, let’s pound him to dust!

* ADRENALINNNE RUSSHHHH! *

With hyper speed, the three menacingly came rushing towards Yorty. The room echoed with heavy footsteps. Upon seeing the incoming danger, Yorty immediately opened his palms wherein a black metallic katar slid down from underneath both hands which he was able to catch with precision.

Yorty: ENCHANT POOISON!

A violet liquid flowed down both infiltrators.

Yorty: VENOOOOM DUST!

Yorty threw a reddish piece of stone right in front of him. This emitted a violet mist upon hitting the ground. Coming across the mist, the three blacksmiths suddenly felt suffocated. Their eyesight started to fail while at the same time their bodies felt heavy.

Yorty leaped towards Ropha who was at that time coughing vigorously. He slashed her so fast. Critical rates were flying all over the place. Ropha went on shouting .

Mr. Rich and Goldrush regained composure and ran to Ropha’s rescue. They hit Yorty with rapid succession which the latter avoided with ease. Yorty was moving so fast that the three cannot hit him. From time to time there, Yorty kicked the three right on the face, deliberately allowing the three blacksmiths to feel the pain of his high heels. He went everytime he did that.

Ropha was really in deep trouble now. Her dress was torn to the point that she’s barely naked. The little thief was strangely enjoying what he was seeing. He cannot believe that this female villain has a nice figure. She has smooth white skin, well, regrettably, was now being slashed by Yorty. That little snot! He went on daydreaming of having to strip ladies for a living. But suddenly he was returned to consciousness when the three blacksmiths simultaneously casted:

* HAMMERRR FALLL! *

Yorty was stunned! He was suddenly left immobilized and dazed. He started seeing cute little yellow birds cheerfully chirping above his head.

Yorty sure is in big trouble now.
------------------------------------------

PART V: SHALL WE DANCE?

The thief went upon seeing Yorty stunned. He knew that Yorty would be an easy target for the three blacksmiths on that state of dizziness. He had to do something.

Meanwhile, the three blacksmiths each got a bottle of berserk potion from their carts and drank it all up. It did not take that long to take effect. The potion made them feel a lot stronger and faster. They felt the effect flowing through their veins. Yorty at that moment, was still enjoying the chirping sound of his imaginary little yellow birds, unaware of the danger that is about to befall him.

Goldrush: ASA KA BOYYY!

The shout caused Yorty to sprang back to reality. The first thing he saw was the face of Goldrush. Feeling the imminent danger, thus,

Yorty: SOOOOOONIC BLOOOOOOOOW!

Yorty’s hands vigorously and swiftly went crisscrossing like a mechanical incisor on Goldrush’s face. The force and strength of each blow sent Goldrush in a revolving motion. Goldrush ugly face gets uglier than ever. His big black mole on the nose was clearly chopped off in the process. It flew right on the thief’s upper lip. YUCK!

The other two started pounding the ground shouting Hammer Fall simultaneously. The room began shaking again. Upon seeing the shockwave from the impact coming towards Yorty, he backslid to avoid it. But alas! He was finally cornered and stunned on one side of the room. The three had finally surrounded him.

* MAMMOOOOONIIIIIIITE! *

The three blacksmiths used the chains to hurl coins against Yorty. Coins were flying all over the room. The impact of the coins gave a big damage as it touches the immobilized body of the stunned assasin.

Seeing Yorty in trouble, the thief leaped from where he was hiding and sneaked behind the blacksmiths who were busy hurling coins to Yorty.

Mr. Rich: MAMMO…! What the??!

Ropha: DARN KID! HE STOLE OUR ZENNIESSSS!!!

Goldrush: LET’S GET HIMM!!

Thief:

The thief ran away as quickly as he could but the blacksmiths came running after him. He ran around the room screaming when suddenly two persons barged inside the room. The four were surprised.

Goldrush: WHAT THE??! WHAT NOW?!

The two people stood by the door. One was a priest holding a gold stunner on his right hand. He was patting it with his left hand. The other was an assassin arms clasped around his chest, his +10 double bloody katar barely hidden from view.

The priest buffed himself and the assassin with him. He also healed and buffed Yorty who was at that time leaning on the wall battered. Yorty sprang to life.

Priest: I am Reverend, baseball fan.

Assasin: Am Lost Boy, the handsome of them all.

Reverend: Mind if we join?

(to be continued...)
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PART VI: PLACE YOUR BETS!

Mr. Rich and the others just sneered at the new comers. The thief slowly and quietly as he could, paced back behind the pile of boxes in the corner of the room. He was hoping that the three would not notice him stepping away.

When he reached the corner, the thief peeked behind the open spaces of the pile of boxes thinking that the fight that is about to take place will be an interesting one. Both Yorty and Ropha were now fully recovered. Both parties look tough. The thief wondered if this room could still be able to withstand this two group.

Ropha: I ssseeee… you foolssss belong to the Freedom Supremacy guild…

Goldrush: Even if you defeat us today, our organization will not spare an ounce of pity for your guild…

Mr. Rich: We shall OBLITERATE Y’ALL!!

* ADRENALIIIINEEEE RUSH! *

* WEAPONNNN PERFECTION! *

* POWWWEERRR MAXIMIZE! *

The bodies of the three blacksmiths turned fiery red. Their power was felt in the whole room. The pile of boxes where the thief was started trembling. The glass dividers where the potions are kept were shattered. The ground was shaking.

The three blacksmiths came rushing towards the other party. Seeing that the blacksmiths are at arms length, Reverend quickly put on his clip slotted with a Marine Sphere Card and changed his weapon to a club slotted with Magnolia Card. With full force, he hammered the ground with:

* MAGNUM BREAK! *

Fire suddenly engulfed the club creating an explosion as it hits the ground. The three blacksmiths were thrown away from the point of impact. Some portions of their clothes were burned. Their hair were standing in shock while their faces all black with smudge from smoke.

Goldrush: W..w..wwwhhaat the helllllll??!

Mr. Rich: i….. cannnnt…. Mooooooovee….

Ropha: weeee’ve…… beeeen.. CURSED!!!

A mysterious black figure suddenly emanated from their bodies pinning them down towards the ground. Yorty and Lost Boy wasted no time. They immediately slashed the immobilized blacksmiths. Reverend went on swinging his club like a mad man. He continued hitting the blacksmiths on the head shouting “HOMERUN! ”.

Finally, the blacksmiths fell to the ground like a log. They were severely beaten. Their faces were almost beyond recognition because of abrasions, contusions, and incised wounds. Mr. Rich lost his entire teeth.

Reverend, Yorty and Lost Boy were celebrating when Rhyno together with Raikonnen, Corinne, Emperador Brandy, and Chinita Ella came rushing inside the room….

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PART VII: THE YOUNG PARIAH


Rhyno: What happened here? And where have you been Yorty? You are supposed to be guarding the emperium today…

Yorty: GM, I’m sorry. I was just trying to get my green boots back which was stolen by that thief two days ago…

Rhyno: I see… you should have informed me about this. Since you did not guard the emperium today… I won’t give you any salary plus pots.

Yorty:

Reverend:

Rhyno: You there! Little man hiding behind the boxes, come out now…

No response.

* RUWACH! *

The thief came out from where he was hiding. He kept his head down as he hesitatingly walked towards Rhyno.

Rhyno: Hand over the boots thief.

Yorty: GM, he also had something belonging to those blacksmiths.

The thief handed over the boots of Yorty and the piece of paper he stole from the blacksmiths. After Yorty put on his boots, he inserted the piece of paper to Goldrush's pocket. The little snot wore a pitiful look for the hope that Rhyno would not have him arrested by the Prontera Royal Guards. Yorty drew close to Rhyno’s ear to whisper something.

Yorty: GM, this is the best thief I’ve encountered in my entire life. He stole my boots when I was in solitude in the green fields of Payon. All my senses and energy were open to nature and to everything but this kid… this kid.. I was not able to feel his presence. That is why he was able to get my boots. He also saved my life GM. He stole the blacksmiths zennies in one swift move.

Rhyno: Amazing..

Yorty: GM, maybe he can help us with our crusade. We can hone his skills to our advantage GM.

Rhyno: His skills are remarkable but still it is potentially dangerous. I am not sure that LUG would allow us to keep an outlaw in our midst. And even if I want to enlist him to our guild, there are people outside calling for his head.

Yorty: In that case sir, we must send this boy somewhere else… away from here.

Rhyno turned towards the thief and tapped the boy on the shoulders saying:

Rhyno: Boy, there are people outside who wants you dead. They are outside waiting for you as we speak. They must have heard the commotion here a while ago. Now, I am giving you a choice, it’s either you go out that door and face execution or you allow us to warp you to some other place away from here…

A loud banging was suddenly heard from the door. Shouts ensued saying

*WE KNOW THE THIEF IS IN THERE! *

* HAND THAT LITTLE PEST TO USSS! *

* CRUCIFY HIMMM! *

Thief: Send me somewhere else please!

Rhyno: Well then… Raikonnen.. Commence warping.

* WARP! *

A blue circle vortex emerged from the ground where Raikonnen extended his arms.

Yorty: Step into the light boy. Don’t be scared now. You take care of youself okay?

Thief:

The thief stepped into the vortex. The girls were waving goodbye and to the thief. The thief responded with . Seconds later, the thief was gone and the warp gate closed.

Yorty: WAAAAIIIIIIIIIIIIIIITTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTT!!!

Rhyno: What is it this time Yorty?

Yorty: HE STOLE MY BOOTS AGAINNN!!!!!!!! WAAAAAAHHHH!

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