Same People Yet Different Book 4

[coldfire01]

Same People Yet Different Book 4
The Subservient and the Manipulator
By Mysterious Songwriter

Chapter 1 ?The Confusion in the night?
It was past midnight, probably around 2 or 3 am. At the western exit of Balthazar Street, a scream of a girl can be heard but no one is nearby to be able to assist her call.
It must be one of those days that you think that bit of overtime afterwards going home late you won?t encounter people who will take advantage of you. Especially that a girl who is unable to protect herself against brigands who steal at night and it hurts that they just going to take away what you earned for working hard.
It is unfair yet the only choice is for you to let go of your belongings to avoid making them upset. Since the thieves have the upper hand in numbers also. But the girl feels that she just can?t let them take all of it for nothing. Not by these people and by just a few words coming from them it will be over.
The thieves just took the purse and ran away towards a bridge. As long as they can go to the other side they will be able to hide in various alleys there. They were running before but they walked instead after seeing a silhouette of a guy approaching them on the other side.
Not to become suspicious, the thieves slowed their pace and just kept silent until they can cross bridge. But after seeing the guy is just a normal high school kid, they no longer need to pretend and ran all the way.
But before they can get pass that high school kid, that same person somewhat accidentally bumped on those thieves. The contents of the purse scattered on the floor revealing the girls?s belongings and money inside.
The high school kid apologized and tried to help them put back everything. The thieves said to not bother and they rushed gathering the money in.
Before they can run again, the high school kid, this time intentionally tripped the thieves. The other thief saw that. He then became violent and rushed towards the kid. The kid just moved a few steps back and distanced himself from them. He then asked to wait first and listen to what he is about to say.


The kid
?I think you should give it back to that lady mister.?
?There are various ways of earning money than resorting to this.?

The thieves did not speak a word but they signaled at each other. They confirmed a strategy to capture the kid. They plan on beating that kid instead of listening what he might say.

The kid
?I know the feeling that you guys are going through. But this isn?t the way to solve it.?

One of the thieves tried to grab the kid. The kid dodged to the left. The thief tried grabbing him several times but the kid kept on dodging or tapping the thief?s arm away. The thief got upset and throws some punches instead. The kid dodged it and once there is an opening, he quickly grabbed the thief?s arm using his left hand. Throwing him backwards and then he later kicked the back of the knee of that same thief making him kneel. Once the thief kneeled he later positioned his right fist preparing a blow toward the thief?s face.
The other thief saw that and he joined to help his comrade. The other thief threw a right hook and the kid dodged again. The kid later grabbed the same arm and dragged it to make the thief unbalanced. He attacked by thrusting his right palm to the thief?s chin connecting a right kick when the thief is going down. The kid later positioned again his fist toward the face of the first thief. The thief didn?t like it so he rushed toward the kid. The kid sat on the floor and placed his foot toward the stomach of the thief while both arms are on each arm of that thief. He threw the thief in that position.
The kid stood up and prepared his stance if the thieves want more. The thieves ran away as fast as they can without picking up the purse.
The lady saw everything. She is very grateful for the kid?s heroic efforts. The kid later picked up the purse and later gave it to the lady.
The lady
?Thank you very much for that. I don?t know what I would do if I ever lose this.?
?Thank you.?
The kid
?It is best that you go straight to your home miss. It is not safe here at night.?

The lady
?Yes I know that for sure.?
?You should take care of yourself as well.?
?Oh and before you go, may I ask your name please??

The kid
?Mildano. Enrico Mildano.?

The lady
?Very well Enrico. My name is Karyll Viernes, nice to meet you. And take care of yourself.?

Enrico Mildano
?You too Ms. Viernes, take care as well.?

They both left separate ways after that.

While going home, Karyll is thinking a lot of things. A kid like that protected her at the boundary of Balthazar street at night sure is rare. Too bad he is quite young though.
Karyll later saw a group of guys who are probably more dangerous than those thieves. She decided to take a different route than walking through those guys.

That same group of guys is now walking toward where Enrico is. They are actually the same group where those thieves are in. They are probably going to take revenge for what Enrico did to them.
Meanwhile on where Enrico is, later arriving in a car is Gregory Bitanez.

Gregory Bitanez
?Did you enjoy your little stroll in the night Enrico??

Enrico Mildano
?Yeah very much delighted.?

Gregory Bitanez did not like the tone of the voice when Enrico said that.

Gregory
?Hop in. I?ll take you home.?

Enrico Mildano took Gregory?s advice and they drove home.

While on the road, Gregory asked
?Do you plan on doing this often??

Enrico Mildano
?NO way. I just happen to be passing by.?

Gregory Bitanez
?Good to hear that.?
?I don?t want to hear that you are becoming like batman or something, as the hero who brings justice to the weak. It is quite noble however it is also stupid if you plan on doing it on one of the hopeless and most rotten streets in the City.?

Enrico Mildano
?I don?t have big plans like that. Nor I have no plans on becoming a chivalrous knight.?
?I just happen to be a bit bored tonight that is why.?

Gregory Bitanez
?Bored or maybe you are reminiscing the past again??

Enrico Mildano
?Kind of.?

Gregory Bitanez
?You don?t have to worry if I am not going to scold you about it. I understand what you are feeling right now.?
?We always ask for the things that we never got before. Is that correct??

Enrico Mildano
?Yeah a little.?

Gregory Bitanez
?I kind of remember my friend Rowen Ken.?
?He is quite weird though when we were kids.?
?Playing toys out of cans and rocks when we are little.?
?Someday he said when I got a stable job and actually has enough money. I will buy the toys that I never have before.?
?Which he did after a few years, he is now one of the otaku?s, and a massive toy collector.?
Gregory Bitanez
?Too bad his son is always selling off his collections while he is outside the country.?
?The point is we crave for the things that we never got before.?
?Right??

Enrico Mildano
?I hate it when you are absolutely right. It seems I don?t have anything to hide from you guys.?

Gregory Bitanez
?I am not saying that you should stop doing that. But if you keep on becoming a hero, someday you might get yourself cornered in a tight spot. If that happens then you will also lead those guys to harm everyone around you as well.?
?Clemente and I didn?t teach you how to fight so that you can pick random fights.?
?We only do it as self defense.?

Enrico Mildano
?I am sorry.?
?I understand it very well. And thank you.?

Gregory Bitanez no longer needs to speak. He knows that Enrico understands his friends are just concerned on his well being that is why he is being scolded. It might be hard on Enrico but he will do his best to just endure it.

Meanwhile at the street where Enrico was, Christopher Larcon happens to be there after buying some food. He happens to be the one that the goons saw when they arrived.


One of the guys said
?Is he the one Alex is talking about??

Another guy said
?Not quite sure, but he did say a kid beat them up.?

A curly haired guy said
?It is understandable who can beat them up. Look closely who is in front of us? It is no other than that bastard Master Chito.?

Chito
?What are you guys talking about? Don?t tell me that you guys are interested on sharing my food with all of you or something??
?This isn?t mine, I was?.I was ordered to pick this up. Yeah that?s it. I wasn?t planning on eating this all by myself. This food is not mine and they are already looking for it as we speak.?

The first guy who seems to be the leader, ordered everyone to get Chito. Chito ran away as fast as he can. Using his wits and geographical knowledge on that area, he managed to escape. However that didn?t last long since some of them are also as clever as Chito. So he is constantly moving from one spot to another.
Chito

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Chito
“Geez. Do they have to put this much trouble for 2 pancit cantons and one egg? Well I have a liter of coke zero so that might explain why they are after me.
“But what are they thinking? Are they assuming they can get away getting free drinks from me? Then they surely are mistaken.”
“It really is bothersome that the nearest stores are already closed. If they haven’t then I shouldn’t have to go through all this trouble.”
“It sure is a hassle being popular. Everyone wants a piece of you. Everyone wants to make friends of you or something.”
The curly haired guy named Alan later spotted Chito on the terrace and signaled everyone.

Chito
“Oh man they found me. That sure is fast.”
“I keep on forgetting that this is their territory so they have better geographical knowledge of the area than I have.”
“But still it isn’t enough.”
“They won’t take my pancit canton from me!”

Chito later saw a girl who happened to be going outside a gate nearby. He later faked that he is about to jump on the left side of the balcony. He grabbed hold on the side and climbed up again. He crawled all the way to the right side avoiding sight from anyone. He then jumped on the right in front of the girl who went outside the gate. The girl is about to scream when Chito placed her hand over begging not to shout. Chito explained his situation and the girl understands. Chito let go of his hand but a few minutes, the girl still screams for help.
Avoiding being captured since his location is now known; Chito quickly climbed past walls one after the other then ran passed some dogs to escape. Chito hate the thought of a girl not trusting him. But still he needs to deal with those guys first.
Chito focused on his situation. Why are those guys determined to get his food. It is more like they want to beat Chito to a pulp. He saw that they are a bit armed for just a pancit canton. Chito thought carefully but nothing pops in his head explaining their violent reactions.

An hour passed. Gangster thief members Edgar rushed to see their leader Ozlek. They said they found Chito and reported Edward and Mike is already beating him right now. Levy, a sub founder is pleased to hear that. They now walked towards where Chito is.
Just a few blocks where Chito is right now, you can hear crashes and also Chito screaming in pain. When Levy arrived he saw Chito bleeding at the floor after being beaten up by Mike. Mike still kept on kicking Chito in the gut to make him suffer more for picking a fight with them.
Ozlek the leader, ordered his men to stop. He wants to hear what Chito has to say first for picking a fight with their organization.

Ozlek the leader of the thieves
“It must be sheer stupidity of having ideas in your head to pick fights with us. You must be thinking that you are probably stronger, more powerful, more influence than us?”
“Idiots like you always bear the idea of “it must be interesting to pick a fight with this group since they look challenging” kept on coming in like cockroaches.”
“I would like you to know that we “the Junio Ordinanza Gangsta” are not a pushover group that you can mess around.”

One of the founding leaders named Paulo said
“We have influences ranging from long lists of police officers, lawyers and sergeant of the police. We also have connections leading to the Chairman himself if necessary. So thinking your name weighs more than what we have is really stupid.”

Ozlek the leader
“Do not blame us on what we are going to do to you. Instead blame it on your stupidity for thinking you are better.”

Moments later police car sirens in on where Chito is.

Before the police arrived Ozlek said
“It seems luck is on your side today. We have to suspend this temporarily. We have some unwanted guests spoiling the scene.”

The Junio Ordinanza Gangsta ran away to avoid the police car.
A police officer helped to pick up Chito. Another officer named Herman said not to help him.
Officer Herman
“You can stop pretending now. I think they already left.”

Chito stood up and tried tidying up, wiping off the charcoal and dirt around his body. The way he stood up it is like he wasn’t hurt at all. The other police officer doesn’t know what is going on.

Chito
“Do you have anything I can use to wipe off this dirt around my face?”

Officer Herman
“I don’t have any here. We can drive near a drug store to get some alcohol if you want.”

Chito
“No there is no need for that.”
“I can wash my face on the way home instead.”

Officer Herman
“If that is what you want then.”

Chito
“Seriously, why did those guys have to brag that they have police contacts and sergeants or something if they have to run away from a single police siren?”
“That goes to show that their confidence is just talk and no show.”


The other officer said
“What do you mean by that? I don’t like your tone boy.”

Officer Herman
“Relax Kesler. I don’t think Chito meant it in a rude manner. But Kesler too has a point though. Just what do you mean by what you just said? Are you telling me that you don’t fear us or something?”

Chito
“No it is not like that. It is just that I hate people who talk a lot but can’t prove their claim. It is annoying that many people are afraid of posers like them.”

Officer Herman
“I see. But you have to understand that they are thieves. They have to say big lies to cheat people.”
“Then again it is not our business to intervene on what you want to do.
“We already processed your request. Will there be anything else Chito?”

Chito
“That is all for today. Thanks Officer Herman.”

Officer Herman
“Remember you owe me big time on this one.”

Chito
“Yeah I know. I will just do some errands again if you want.”

The officers showed a sign that they accepted the agreement Chito provided. They soon left after that. Officer Herman offered Chito a lift home but he refused. He needs to get some stuff first before going home.
Later Chito came across a girl. It is the same girl who screamed on where Chito is right now.
Chito did not like that so he began to run away again. But this time, the girl asked politely not to run. She promises not to scream as well. She just wants to speak to Chito.

The girl also the girl who helped Enrico named Karyll
“I just want to say that I am sorry. I didn’t mean any harm.”
“Also I just want to warn you as well. Those guys who you came across, they are the local bullies on our area on the eastern part of Balthazar Street. They are also rumored to be one of the top syndicates on our Street. They will still continue to hunt you down because they assumed that you hurt their comrade.”
“I advice you not to show your face again on these parts. You might need to keep a low profile until their heads cool off for the issue.”
“I am really sorry I screamed even though you asked me not to. I made things worse for you at that time.”
“I don’t know what to react at that time. I shouldn’t have….”

Chito
“That is alright. What is done is done now. I don’t mind much about what happened today.”
“I am quite satisfied that I got a little exercise on that event at least.”

Karyll doesn’t understand why Chito can still smile after hearing that he is in danger.




Chito
“Top syndicates huh? They sure are getting over their heads these days.”
“They have no idea who the real monsters who owns these streets.”
“Someday that Ozlek guy will feel a tremendous storm when he finally meets someone who really wears the name on the top.”

Karyll
“I don’t understand.”

Chito
“Don’t mind what I just said. I was just talking to myself.”
Karyll still doesn’t understand what Chito is trying to say. The way Chito acts is like he is not really bothered that a powerful group is after him. Chito just left without saying a word after that.
Minutes later, the Junio Ordinanza Gangsta is surrounded by a group of guys that is more dangerous than them. Paulo, one of the founding leaders, got upset, so he asked who the hell has the guts to pick a fight with them. Edgar confirmed the identity of the group who is in front. It happens to be subordinates of Luis Jumar aka Destroyer. One of the ten junior Godfathers of the community or commonly known as elite 10.

Paulo the sub founder
“What do you mean by a junior Godfathers or something? There is no such insane alias or anything like that.”

Luis Jumar
“Hey worm. It seems you don’t have any idea of your situation yet.”
“I haven’t authorized you worm to speak. If you speak again I will pull your tongue and slam your head on that fire hydrant got that?”
“I will be asking questions here not you!”
Paulo the starter did not like that so he replied in a rude way to Luis Jumar. The Junio Ordinanza Gangsta members asked Paulo not to talk back anymore. When Luis Jumar heard that, he attacked Paulo violently and punched his face 15 times for talking back.
Luis Jumar is not satisfied so he even lifts a hollow block and dropped it on Paulo’s face.

Ariel, one of Luis Jumar’s friends said
“Here I thought you were going to slam him on the fire hydrant? Some big talk with the steel pipeline changed to a hollow blocks instead.”

Luis Jumar
“Shut up Ariel. As you can see the fire hydrant is across the street. I don’t have the time and patience bringing his body there.”

The other founders also remembered about a madman named Luis Jumar who picks random fights and he does it for pleasure. The Junio Ordinanza tried to reason with Luis Jumar but he doesn’t want to listen. He is now unreasonable and only thinks of beating everyone he sees to the ground. He is enraged and there is no longer use talking to a sadist like him.
1 hour passed. The two guys who were beaten up by Enrico came looking for their comrades. Alex, who is one of them, cannot believe seeing everyone is beaten up. Some of them have serious injuries proving fatal if not applied first aid. Alex asked who did this and found out Luis Jumar the Destroyer left them all lying to the ground. Alex asked why his friends are picking a fight with a madman like Luis Jumar. The starter explained they caught Chito and they beat him to the ground. But they were later ambushed by Luis Jumar afterwards.
Alex tried helping his comrades up and explained that Chito is not the one who beaten them. It is another guy whom they never saw before and probably not a resident in Balthazar Street. The Junio Ordinanza members don’t have the strength anymore to argue. They just accepted the fact that they were bullied by someone outrageously powerful than they are.


Moments later, the residents of the area gathered around after waking up hearing screams of the ordinanza’s in pain. Karyll saw it and checked what is going on. She is surprised to see the entire group of thieves all heavily injured. Karyll can’t imagine a group who is able to beat the entire Junio Ordinanza Gang. It is like a first time in history on their area to see a syndicate like them defeating those thieves.

An old woman
“I heard one of them said that it was the guy named Luis Jumar aliased the destroyer who did this. “

Another old woman
“A guy rumored to be one of the Junior Godfathers or what do they call themselves lately? The Elite 10 I think? Why did they suddenly have interested on beating these monsters?”

An old woman
“It seems that the Junio Ordinanza went too far and they finally enraged a dangerous group that is able to mop the floor with them.”
“It serves them right. They deserve what is coming to them.”

What Karyll is thinking right now is that guy who he talked with earlier. The guy, who is confident he will never be hurt from the Ordinanzas. He is quite possibly the one responsible for this scene to happen.
Karyll still has doubts however, what if that guy really is the one who caused this? If he is then what kind of guy is he, to be able to call upon a police and also ask revenge from a member of the Elite 10 at the same night? Such influence would probably be comparable to the level of a syndicate.
What Karyll only regrets is that she never got to ask the person’s name before he left.

[coldfire01]

Chapter 2 - The Punishment for the crime
Few days after the recovery from the serious beating that the Junio Ordinanza received, the gang members talked about the events that happened on that night.

Paulo a sub member
“What are you talking about Alex? Are you saying we picked a fight with a wrong guy?”
“And what do you mean we should not pick fights with Chito? We just cracked him wide open like coconut a few minutes ago. And you said we should avoid fighting him?”

Alex the guy who was beaten by Enrico
“I just hear nasty rumors about him. The first few weeks before are nothing compared to the latest rumors.”
“And the fact that I saw him unharmed just after you left is also another trivia.”

Paulo
“That is impossible. Mike was enjoying beating him up. He can’t even talk properly. His mouth is already bleeding and his face is filled with blood.”
“No one can stand up after that beating.”

Louis another thief who was beaten by Enrico replied
“Are you referring about the news on Jervis Salazar Khoval?”

Alex
“The guy who beaten Jervis Salazar Khoval is the guy called Master Chito.”
“And he is the guy who you just picked a fight leading to the blood thirsty Luis Jumar the Destroyer.”

Paulo the starter
“Preposterous! That is also impossible. There is no way that Chito can beat up Jervis the Ambassador, the rumors these days are getting worse every day.”

Alex
“I know but I am just careful you know.”
“Does anyone know what Chito’s contacts or capabilities are?”

Paulo
“No. But whatever it is, it is nothing comparable to Jervis’s dad who is a congressman?”

Founder Ozlek later arrived and said
“In comparison, the congressman would be more powerful than any of our contacts combined.”
“The details on the rumors are unreliable. But the rumors basically rotate about on how he beat up one of the Elite 10 or Junior Godfathers.
“If it is true then it is really something that we should avoid.”
“Is that right Alex?”

Paulo
“However there is no solid information yet proving that Chito is the one who did it.”
“That is not enough for us to fear him.”




Founder Ozlek
“But why is the news pointing to Chito that he is the one who is able to beat him. So far, no other person or group claims that they ever did.”
“In fact no one rose up or has the guts to claim that they were able to.”
“Because anyone claiming they can beat Jervis Salazar Khoval would be endangering his life and the people around him.”
“Jervis is truly dangerous and the fact that he is one of the Elite 10 proves it.”

Alex
“Since Chito is the only one who can do that based on the rumor, it seems that he never encountered anyone harming him so far?”
“Jervis’s family, friends, contacts, will all be very upset if they do after that. They will hunt down that person to the ends of the earth.”
“The Khoval’s won’t sit this one out. They won’t stand for any humiliation.”

Founder Ozlek
“Did you hear any rumors that Chito claimed it verbally that he is the one who did it?”

Alex
“No not yet.”
“I heard Chito doesn’t want to talk about it either they say.”

Founder Ozlek
“I can assume that there is something happened between Chito and Jervis. But it is probably around that Chito is not proud of doing what he just did.”
“That is what I can assume.”


Paulo the sub founder
“I see.”

Founder Ozlek
“I can also say that Chito’s capability is quite unmeasured yet. Call it as an unknown. We don’t know how dangerous he is yet.”
“Still we have to keep our distance away from that guy or his friends from now on.”
“He might even be the guy who called upon Luis Jumar. After beating him to the ground, it might sound strange but he could have planned it after we left him a few minutes on that night.”
“We don’t want another day with Elite 10 again would we.”

Mike is amazed that this group, the Junio Ordinanza Gangsta, have a very clever leader. Mike is also the same guy pretending to beat up Chito. What really happened is, Chito is just acting to be hurt when the thieves arrived. Mike is one of the contacts of Chito and they orchestrated an act to believe he was all beaten up. The Junio Ordinanza gangster members didn’t notice Chito using some red crepe paper and water to get the red color as blood on his body and face. Chito also rubbed some dirt on his body and torn apart his clothes seeing he was pushed around.
The police coming in was also a part of Chito’s plan. Chito called upon a policeman that he knows to pick him up afterwards.
It was a big gamble for Chito but it was all worth it to stop the Ordinanza from hunting him.
But Mike wonders who really called upon Luis Jumar. When he asked Chito about it, he said he never ordered Luis Jumar. Chito explained that he has no capability of any sort to call upon monsters like them at the middle of the night. Of all the elite 10, Luis Jumar the destroyer is extremely uncontrollable. He will not allow himself become a pawn by someone else.
Mike just assumed that it could have been purely coincidence that they met up with Luis Jumar the destroyer. The fact that Mike got beaten as well by Luis Jumar is not with Chito’s original plan.

Few days passed after the events that took place at that night, Chito is hoping, wishing that the word never got to spread out to the street. It is about the night when Chito fought against the Junio Ordinanza.
Chito really wish that he can control the rumors from spreading. If possible he could at least dissolve the rumor about him and Junio Ordinanza just as Jervis able to cover the rumor of their fight.
Nevertheless, Chito is quite satisfied that the people at Balthazar Street continue to look at Chito to the way as it used to be. Just like before, some still look as Chito as the same bad influence guy and some still continue to look at him as a good guy to hangout with.

If that information got out proving he is really the one who beat Jervis, then everyone in the street will definitely look down at Chito like some kind of scum, a menace, capable of bullying a nice decent person who happens to be son of a politician. Also he is concerned about what Chito’s relative’s reaction if they know the truth as well.
Jervis has a spotless record of sharing good wills to other everyone. He is even considered somewhat like a saint in Balthazar street. He never had any negative rumors about him even though Jervis is a leader of a fraternity. Chito is quite opposite, since he is known to be the one of the worst guys in the street. Chito really is not a bad person but as much as he tries to protect himself towards others, he is still never believed.
Tyrone, Kempee and several friends of Chito promised they will not speak a word about it to other people. Same goes with the LAO Fraternity because they used to be old buddies of Chito.
Weeks already passed after the fight between Chito and the Junio Ordinanza cooled off and ended. Kempee, at first, kept on asking Chito about the details of how he called Luis Jumar. Everyday Chito kept on saying that he never called upon the destroyer on that fight but his friends don’t believe him.
Days turned into weeks, weeks passed when everyone forgot about that fight. That is the time when they let their guards down. Never had they expected that Chito will one day face his punishment for his actions.

One day some of the Larcon’s decided to talk about Chito at Rebecca Gapagat’s house. The topic of their meeting is about the actions that Christopher Larcon did on the past few days.
Rebecca Gapagat was a bit surprised about the sudden visit of Almedia Larcon and also with Emilio Galvez Larcon. The two said that they won’t be taking long of her time. Rebecca invited them inside to have some tea. They sat down at the living room. Emilio didn’t wait any more and just went on the issue of their visit. They want to inquire about how Rebecca and Jim discipline Christopher Larcon. Because it seems very ineffective and they fear about what he might able to do next.
Almedia objected and said that it Emilio is becoming a bit extreme to blame it all on Jim and Rebecca. It is entirely beyond them since they are really trying so hard to understand what Chito wants.
Emilio implied that it is becoming clear that they are the ones to blame, because he has so many privileges that explains why Chito is becoming abusive of his power. He even suggests stripping him of his influence by restricting his actions. We can see what will happen. He will not become who he is if Rebecca trimmed off the horns of the child before they grow.
He even questioned Rebecca’s attempts to educate him is not working at all. Chito is at the age who knows what is right and wrong and frankly he is doing everything that we don’t need right now.
Emilio said that he doesn’t want to hear about Jim Frederick Larcon apologizing so much to the Khoval’s for the inconvenience. He voiced out that the Larcons have been fortunate that the Khoval’s did not make it as an issue. Otherwise if they did, we will all be crushed by them in just a flick of a finger.
Rebecca was stunned by the words coming from his cousin Emilio. She tried to think about it but every word Emilio said is right. Christopher Larcon is becoming a man who kept on bringing disasters one after the other.
Looking back when Rebecca was still a teacher 10 years ago, Christopher Larcon is always been a troublemaker. Making half of his classmates skip the class, even though Rebecca Gapagat was her homeroom teacher. Chito might have been a troublemaker that time up until now. But in a way he is a leader who is followed by his peers. If he can use that energy to good use, he can make good things not just for his friends but to the entire community.
Rebecca thought it over, and then later made up her mind. She wants to talk to Christopher Larcon and talked about it. This time Christopher Larcon crossed the line and needs to be dealt with accordingly.
Minutes later Oliver Aguzan excused himself and voiced out his opinion.
Oliver Aguzan said that is a good idea, however if it is not yet too late that is. That is because there are some people aside from Khovals are also unsatisfied with what Chito did. He fears that those guys might make their move before they do.
Meanwhile where Chito is right now, he saw some guys wearing Barongs, which is a form of a polo shirt that has special sewing patches that only the people at the government wears. There are some instances that you can see them at some parts of the street. But they are slowly increasing at some locations. Chito assumes that is probably due to someone big is coming and that person requires a lot of security on the area. Chito just continued to his daily routines ignoring them.

Chito later spent his time on a skate park for a few minutes. He saw some guys wearing barongs are also there mingling with the crowd. Tyrone can’t help notice them as well and asked Chito why someone from the government would also be preparing to secure a place like this. Chito replied that he doesn’t know as well. But they haven’t heard anything exciting that happens on the street so he doesn’t mind whoever is going to visit. Kempee said that would be great that if it is a cute political daughter would be visiting however what if they are wrong. What if that they are really after is the guys who are able to push Jervis around? Chito and Tyrone get to be silent when Kempee said that. Chito later said that it is impossible because Jervis is no longer a resident on the Avare City. He is not even a Khoval anymore and no longer had that kind of connections he added. Chito said that if Jervis has grievances with a person he hates, he wouldn’t need to use Political contacts rather he will use his gangster connections to bring that person down instead. And if also it is just about some weakling like Chito then he doesn’t need to ask someone rather he will just personally take care of it himself.
Chito walked to the video arcades and played some games. He kept on losing his concentration because the guys wearing barong are also there. He went outside on various places to look for a place that they are no longer there. But wherever he went, they are still there. Chito began to worry so he decided texting Tyrone. He asked if those Barong guys are at their locations. Tyrone replied and he said they already left. He tried asking Kempee next and he said they also left. Same goes with Xavier and Chris. Chito began to fear that those guys are only on his location and start to think that they really are after him.
Chito also noticed his situation right now. The sun is setting and he is at the shore of the river bank far away from many houses. The people are slowly leaving as well. Chito saw the Government guys are slowly making their move approaching him.
But before he can even run he is now cornered by them. He was advised not to run for they will use force if necessary if he did. Chito felt fear even more.

One of them, a tall man, slowly approached him

The tall guy asked
“Are you by any chance the guy named Christopher Larcon?”
“May I speak with you, in private that is?”

Chito thoroughly looked at the guy from head to toe checking why such a guy is after him. He needs to think and be cautious just to ensure that it might not happen to be ordered by someone dangerous. When he tries to look at the guy, he has a feeling that this person in front of him really is working at the city hall. That makes Chito feel uneasy with that person’s reason for asking his name.
Chito asked why a person like him needs to talk in private. The tall guy replied that it is about some business that he cannot discuss here. He also asked politely that he is merely following orders and has no intention of telling who he is serving.
Moments later a black van arrived at the location and some government guys opened it. When one of the government guys opened the door, Chito looks inside hoping to see the boss at least.
When the door opened, it is just another government officer who came out and there is no boss inside. Moments later that government officer asked Chito to get inside which made Chito feel more uneasy. If he is going to be moved to another location, his chances of running away would be very slim. Chito also finds it terrifying what is going on right now that he only sees on the movies is right now happening to him.

[coldfire01]

The tall guy said that no harm will ever be upon Chito if he cooperates. He is going to be returned back safely after the interrogation is completed. Chito really finds it hard to believe but he is in no position to refuse. Looking at these government officers’ heights and how built their bodies are shows low percentage of running away from them. So he just played along and went inside the vehicle.
Inside the vehicle he is in between by two Government officers there, ensuring that Chito won’t try to escape that easily. What Chito wonders is that while he is inside he wasn’t handcuffed or anything. Rather they just placed two officers sitting in his left and right. He doesn’t see anything about these guys being ruthless or anything. However something is suspicious about these guys but Chito can’t figure out what it is yet. Chito just assumed that his doubts will be cleared after he gets to meet the boss of these guys.
The officers later drove in to some junk shop. They met up with some guys working there. The government officers just informed them that they got Chito. One of the workers at the junk shop volunteered to tell the boss about it. That guy came back and said to bring Chito inside the warehouse. The 2 government officers each grabbed one arm of Chito and ordered him to follow.
Chito was later instructed to sit to a chair. There they tied his hands and feet to that same chair. Few minutes later a silhouette of a middle aged man came in front of him behind an old cloth. It seems that he doesn’t want to show up his face to Chito.
The old man in the silhouette asked Chito if he were the one who get to bring down the guy who has alias of the “ambassador”. Chito first did not understand the question but when they said that it was Jervis. He began to think who these people are.
The guy behind the silhouette is not satisfied for Chito’s ignorance and he signaled one of the guys to approach Chito. Someone came in wearing a black mask and slowly wraps his fist with a dirty cloth. He slowly approached Chito and punched Chito at the right cheek. The guy in a mask later grabbed Chito’s hair and asked to reply properly when questioned.
The old man ordered to stop. Later he asked again if he is the one who is able to bring down Jervis and asks how he did it. Chito still remained silent. The guy in a mask wrapped a shirt along with Chito’s neck and chokes him. The masked man asked again Chito to answer properly.

The masked guy who beats on Chito
“Talk fool. Just what made you think of beating Jervis Salazar Khoval?”
“Who are your accomplices for you to be able to do it as well?”

The guy in the silhouette
“That is enough.”
“Let’s hear him speak this time.”

Chito coughs a lot catching his breath from that punishment.
Chito became upset. He wants to speak out and at least do something to make these guys pay for what they are doing to him.

The masked guy
“Oh.”
“Scary eyes, so you want to fight with us then?”

Chito became silent. He thinks it over first. He became quiet thinking of a way out of here.
Chito looks at the masked guy and tries to remember the people at least. He wants to remember who he needs to bring down if he gets out of here.
The masked guy grabbed Chito’s hair again.

The masked guy
“So you are feeling brave this time?”
“You want a piece of me?”

Chito just endured more beating.

The masked guy
“Ah, I know what you are probably thinking right now.”
“Why don’t you say it loud? Brag it to us. Brag about your contacts like your administrator uncle?”
“And also your police contacts as well?”
“Just so you know, whoever they are, we’ll annihilate them all.”

Chito did not speak a word. He just remained silent.
The guy in the silhouette assumes that Chito will just give up. He expects Chito will talk big even in this situation. It is either of the two, he will try to reason out and make an agreement to get out of his predicament by bribing them all, or he will mock everyone he sees upon arresting them if he is not set free. One of the two would be the possible response Chito will take.

The masked guy
“We wait your answer fool.”


Chito, slowly opened his lips and tried to speak

Chito
“Can I have a request please?”
“Can you please hurry up?”
“Finish me off quickly I beg of you.”

The guy in the silhouette is surprised on what Chito just said. When he looks at Chito’s eyes and face, it has the expression of willing to die at this very moment.

The masked guy
“Idiot.”
“We can’t do that right away. We need to slowly make you suffer first.”

Moments later a woman said “That is enough!” When Chito looked to see who said it, it was Rebecca Gapagat along with guys also wearing barong shirts.

Rebecca Gapagat
“This is really overboard. I knew there is something wrong when your people willingly volunteered. You even said that you can bring Chito in easily.”
“But I didn’t expect it would be something exaggerated and also overreacted as this.”
“Stop this prank right now and show yourself Raymond Ramirez.”


Raymond Ramirez showed himself as the guy who wore the mask. Who happened to be the one beating Chito up.

Raymond Ramirez
“Sorry about that miss Gapagat. Tis might be a very disturbing to the eyes. But with this you can be assured Chito really realized the error of his ways.”

Chito looks at Ramirez

Chito all riled up said
“You Jerk. I was so scared back then and to think that you were the one beating me up back there. You orchestrated this whole thing as a prank?
“When I get out of here I would ring your neck in two.”

Raymond Ramirez
“Ring my neck, lots of luck on that Christopher Larcon.”

Chito
“I don’t need luck on that. Set me free and I will show you.”

Rebecca Gapagat
“That is enough Chito. Ramirez, I will deal with you later. Chito come to my house right now got it?”

Raymond Ramirez
“Oh someone will be punished big time.”

Raymond Ramirez left after talking with Rebecca Gapagat. Rebecca Gapagat left after a few minutes as well. While they are leaving Oliver Aguzan is the one setting him free.
Chito, being furious he quickly rushed outside trying to catch Raymond Ramirez. But he was stopped by Oliver.
Oliver Aguzan
“If I were you I wouldn’t try anything funny against Raymond.”
“You might find it weird but about what he said earlier is pretty much the truth.”

Chito looks at Oliver Aguzan having his one of his eyebrows rose finding it strange. Oliver saw it so he sighed and explained.

Oliver Aguzan
“You can act like that because you haven’t heard any updates on the street that is why. Just so you know, that guy you are about to pick a fight with is also one of the invincible people of Balthazar street.”
“As one of the junior Godfathers or popularly known as Elite 10 of Balthazar street.”
“The stunt he just made is not Larcon powered nor Khoval powered. Remember that well before raising your voice. Christopher Chito Larcon.”

Chito get to think about what Oliver said. Later he spoke.
Before Oliver can leave, Chito said
“So is that it then? I just let you guys ridicule me anytime is that what you want?”

Oliver Aguzan
“No I’m not saying that. I am just saying that you should learn. To pick who you must fight. Otherwise recklessness might get you killed someday.”
“We apologize if it is a bit extreme. Your relatives are just concerned about you. Also we happened to be close to the Larcons that is why we lend a helping hand.”

Chito
“Helping hand? Is that helping when you are making scripts of characters with criminal roles in a play? By scaring people, learn by force is the way they can learn is that it? “
Oliver Aguzan
“We only suggested that method since we know that you are as stubborn as a rock.” “Just be grateful if I were you, because if you weren’t a Larcon we could have made that very experience REAL. Remember that.”

Chito can’t help but feel fear when he saw how Oliver wore that cold blooded eyes and that wicked smile. Chito never saw Oliver do that before and his expression is completely new for Chito. That might prove that he really is not kidding when he said that. Chito knows that these guys; Raymond Ramirez, Oliver Aguzan and their gang really are not who they are rumored to be. Not a gangster wannabe rather they are the group that no one ever wants to be enemies with. For they bring upon destruction to the people who ever did.
While Oliver Aguzan is walking outside, he is waited by one of the members of their Fraternity, the Forsaken Brotherhood. His name is Shawn Ulgery who is member of the Twelve Ordinance Sanctum that is also the main fraternity branch of the Forsaken Brothers fraternity.
Shawn asks why Oliver Aguzan, the Notorious guy who rose up the ranks by a blood bath 8 years ago is now exerting an effort on Christopher Larcon. He asked if it is about some financial sideline he is talking about, as a baby sitter of a spoiled brat. Oliver Aguzan explained that it is somewhat like that. But he also said that he needs to show a decent face sometimes. Even corrupt politicians provide charity to give off a decent smell like a rose. Just to prove that they are the good guys. But the people don’t know that the people they respect are already rotten to the core.
Christopher Larcon just sat down on the ground sulking about what is going on. To think that they go to the lengths that even Oliver Aguzan is the one moving in and telling him to quit being a gangster. He never anticipates it coming or even expected his aunt Rebecca Gapagat is asking assistance from that guy.
Moments later a man approached him.
A middle aged man voice said
“May I have a talk with you Christopher Larcon? And I do hope you won’t consider rejecting my request.”


Chito got upset that it might be a continuation of that prank again. He looked up showing an angry face and at his surprise it is the Administrator himself, his uncle Jim Frederick Larcon.
Chito doesn’t know what to say or even think now that the City administrator would be talking to him in person. True you don’t get to talk with him much since he is always busy. But approaching him in person is something truly alarming.

City administrator Jim Frederick Larcon
“I know what you are probably thinking right now. If you are thinking about Rebecca Gapagat resorting to this then you’re wrong.”
“This wasn’t an idea coming from her. She later realized that Oliver is up to something when he is giving hints about what they are doing to you. So she rushed as quickly as she can to get here.”
“Bottom line is that the events that happened today are not approved by any of us.”

Chito
“Still I don’t like it. I feel like that is the only way you guys can communicate to me. It is very disturbing; it feels like that you required Oliver’s assistance because you don’t trust me at all.”

Jim Frederick Larcon
“You are the one saying that, not me.”
“But believe it or not. We still trust you.”
“It depends on how you repair that respect you lost to everyone is the question. To make them believe that you are not who they think that you are.”

Chito
“To make them believe huh?”

Jim Frederick Larcon
“I understand what you are feeling right now. That is part of life. People remember you of the bad things you do and not to the good things you already accomplished. That is normal since we are humans who demand perfection but there is no such thing as perfect.”
“We all have flaws. That is what makes us special and that is what makes us human.”
“Just be strong and don’t leave yourself be affected on what is happening around you. You must become strong for who you are. You have your own way of handling things.”
“Even if it is about convincing your friend, Jervis decide to quit his previous life.”

Jim Frederick Larcon was later interrupted by one of his secretaries. She said that he will be late on a meeting. Jim Frederick Larcon just excused himself to Chito and left afterwards.

Chito get to think a lot about what Jim Frederick Larcon said.

Chito
“How much can he really know?”
“Whatever, but the old man has a point though. It sucks but I have to a little responsible for my actions this time.”
“Let’s see what happen next then.”

Chito went forward to his aunt Rebecca Gapagat’s house to see about his punishment would be. When he saw Rebecca Gapagat he was requested to wait until she finishes cooking. When she finished, she went on to the issue.

Rebecca Gapagat
“So how shall we do this then? Any ideas what you might do that would be a deserving punishment at least?”

Chito was surprised that he was offered choices under the circumstances. At first he thought that it is a trick but her relatives don’t use tricks like the people in the street. They meant what they say.
Thinking about it, Chito realized that it is a good opportunity to take advantage of that offer. He would probably think of a punishment that might be sufficient for them but it is not that difficult for him. Chito later had an idea.

Chito
“I was just thinking Auntie Rebecca about doing something worthwhile like doing some manual labor. Like repairing roofs and also painting the walls and cleaning the street.”

Rebecca Gapagat
“No not this time, you have a high chance of running away on errands like those. I was planning on something different that I am quite sure you have never done before.”

Chito
“Never done before?”
“Hmm. Come to think of it. What are the things I never have done before?”
“The only things that I can think of are probably ballet dancing or swallowing a sword or something.”

Rebecca Gapagat
“I am glad that you still have energy after what happened. It is nice you can wake up easily after that.”
“Come to think of it, how about keeping your grades up, you haven’t done that at all.”


Chito
“Yeah that too.”
“No way, don’t tell me I have to keep on studying or something.”
“Too bad semester break is already coming in so I won’t be able to comply with that request of yours.”

Rebecca Gapagat
“That would be nice if you DO that automatically rather than being reminded about it everyday. “
“Oh did you say that your semester break is about to start? That is wonderful news then. That way you have a lot of time to do my request then.”

Chito
“Lots of time, did I say that we are going on mountain climbing on the weekend?


Rebecca Gapagat
“No not this time, the entire semester break you will be doing something else.”
“This will be a good learning experience for you as well Christopher Larcon.”
“Come in girl let me introduce you the guy who you need to watch from now on.”

Moments later Ziela Mae Diethal came in from the kitchen. The two are surprised seeing each other.

Rebecca Gapagat
“So you know each other? That ruins the purpose if you guys are friends then.”

Ziela Mae
“Friends? True I know that guy Ms. Gapagat and almost all of the citizens in Balthazar Street do. But being friends is a big no. I won’t be friends of a popular bad influenced guy in the street.

[coldfire01]

Christopher Larcon
“Bad influenced? You should talk, is it of good influence to teach other to be like you. A person who quickly judge on other people without knowing him first? You will never be popular to everyone with that kind of attitude.”

Ziela Mae Diethral
“Then I would rather not wish for any popularity than to be friends with you.”

Christopher Larcon
“Same here, like I would be friends with a weird girl like you.”


Ziela Mae Diethral
“Weird? What do you mean by that?”

Rebecca Gapagat
“Enough you two, I get it. You are not friends then.”
“Sheesh you guys really have some issues.”

Christopher Larcon
“She started it though.”

Ziela Mae Diethral
“How very refined your actions are. Putting the blame on to other people? Is that how a brave gang leader like you should act?”

Christopher Larcon
“Speaking of which, is that how a girl who serves on a church should talk?”

Rebecca Gapagat
“I said enough already.”
“I get it that you really hate each other then.”
“But that brings the issue to an even interesting twist then.”

Ziela Mae Diethral
“Don’t tell me that this is the guy you are talking about earlier? Is he the one who I suppose to be watching over Miss Gapagat?”


Rebecca Gapagat
“That is right. He is the one. You will be supervising his actions and going to report to me as soon as he did something funny.”

Christopher Larcon
“Ziela Mae Diethral is going to supervise me? Good luck on that idea. Like she could last a minute or two staying on the places I go to.”


Rebecca Gapagat
“Don’t worry though Christopher Larcon. You won’t be going anywhere in the entire semester break anyway. You will be spending your time on where Ziela Mae is going, in the church as well with her.”

Christopher Larcon
“Ugh. Don’t tell me I will be doing what she does there?”

Rebecca Gapagat
“That is correct. You will be what Ziela is doing there as well.”

Christopher Larcon
“And what if I refuse?”

Rebecca Gapagat
“We hold your pockets Chito. If you refuse you cannot enroll on the next semester got that?”
“You won’t be able to operate as long as your budget got cut off. No mountain climbing or gigs or anything like that”

Christopher Larcon
“Do you have any other alternatives or options open?”

Rebecca Gapagat
“None.”


Christopher Larcon
“Any open negotiations?”

Rebecca Gapagat
“No.”

Christopher Larcon
“Please.”

Rebecca Gapagat
“I said no. If you ask again I will think of more punishments.”

Christopher Larcon
“Tch. Fine.”

Rebecca Gapagat
“Will that be alright for you Ziela Mae?”
“Don’t worry if that guy ever threatens you or anything. Just report to me got it. I will make sure we truly punish him thoroughly for it. I won’t even hesitate putting him behind bars as well.”

[coldfire01]

Christopher Larcon
“Bad influenced? You should talk, is it of good influence to teach other to be like you. A person who quickly judge on other people without knowing him first? You will never be popular to everyone with that kind of attitude.”

Ziela Mae Diethral
“Then I would rather not wish for any popularity than to be friends with you.”

Christopher Larcon
“Same here, like I would be friends with a weird girl like you.”


Ziela Mae Diethral
“Weird? What do you mean by that?”

Rebecca Gapagat
“Enough you two, I get it. You are not friends then.”
“Sheesh you guys really have some issues.”

Christopher Larcon
“She started it though.”

Ziela Mae Diethral
“How very refined your actions are. Putting the blame on to other people? Is that how a brave gang leader like you should act?”

Christopher Larcon
“Speaking of which, is that how a girl who serves on a church should talk?”

Rebecca Gapagat
“I said enough already.”
“I get it that you really hate each other then.”
“But that brings the issue to an even interesting twist then.”

Ziela Mae Diethral
“Don’t tell me that this is the guy you are talking about earlier? Is he the one who I suppose to be watching over Miss Gapagat?”


Rebecca Gapagat
“That is right. He is the one. You will be supervising his actions and going to report to me as soon as he did something funny.”

Christopher Larcon
“Ziela Mae Diethral is going to supervise me? Good luck on that idea. Like she could last a minute or two staying on the places I go to.”


Rebecca Gapagat
“Don’t worry though Christopher Larcon. You won’t be going anywhere in the entire semester break anyway. You will be spending your time on where Ziela Mae is going, in the church as well with her.”

Christopher Larcon
“Ugh. Don’t tell me I will be doing what she does there?”

Rebecca Gapagat
“That is correct. You will be what Ziela is doing there as well.”

Christopher Larcon
“And what if I refuse?”

Rebecca Gapagat
“We hold your pockets Chito. If you refuse you cannot enroll on the next semester got that?”
“You won’t be able to operate as long as your budget got cut off. No mountain climbing or gigs or anything like that”

Christopher Larcon
“Do you have any other alternatives or options open?”

Rebecca Gapagat
“None.”


Christopher Larcon
“Any open negotiations?”

Rebecca Gapagat
“No.”

Christopher Larcon
“Please.”

Rebecca Gapagat
“I said no. If you ask again I will think of more punishments.”

Christopher Larcon
“Tch. Fine.”

Rebecca Gapagat
“Will that be alright for you Ziela Mae?”
“Don’t worry if that guy ever threatens you or anything. Just report to me got it. I will make sure we truly punish him thoroughly for it. I won’t even hesitate putting him behind bars as well.”

Ziela got to think of accepting Rebecca Gapagat’s request. She never expected that Christopher Larcon will be the guy who she will be supervising. She thought of some delinquent guy that wears the family name of Gapagat at least. But never expected that her nephew is a Larcon especially named Christopher or known as Chito.
Thinking hard about it, Ziela looks at Rebecca anticipating a reply. While doing so she got to look at Chito at a glance. Chito happened to be behind Rebecca that is why. Chito looked away and does not want his eyes to meet with Ziela. She saw how much Chito really hates this idea. Ziela began to hesitate due to that.
Ziela has mixed feelings on what she can say about this. She is not being forced by Rebecca so she can refuse anytime. But later she remembers something Chito said earlier that made her upset.

Ziela Mae Diethral
“Sure I will supervise him Miss Gapagat.”
“Since he said that I am weird, I will do it. I will make sure that I will tell everything he does when he is at the church.”

Ziela Mae being confident of having to upset Chito, looks at him to see how Chito will react. True that she can see Chito unsatisfied with that decision. But Chito can’t even look at Ziela and seem very depressed. He then acts like he can’t do anything to dispute it. Ziela Mae supposed to expect an angered Chito. But instead she is now bothered doing it. Ziela feels like she is about to bully a weak person.
Rebecca Gapagat is very pleased that Ziela Mae Diethral agreed. She said that she will be compensating a generous amount for Ziela doing this task. Ziela said that she is grateful and said that she is just lending a hand. What Ziela said that time is quite opposite of what she is feeling right now.
Christopher Larcon asked if he can go now. When he said those words, his words wore a tone of a really depressed person who completely lost. Ziela is bothered by Chito’s expression even more. Rebecca Gapagat said that the hurt puppy drama of Chito won’t work this time. She already seen that act several times now and it is became annoying. She even emphasized that she happens to be her former homeroom teacher when he is at Grade 6 and knows exactly how that excuse works.
Christopher Larcon can’t help but just kept quiet about it. Not saying a yes or a no.

Rebecca Gapagat whispered at Ziela Mae Larcon to not be affected with the drama that he is doing right now. She said that his nephew might play some mind tricks on Ziela. Chito has a habit of doing that ever since he was a kid. Ziela Mae might feel sorry about him at some time but that is part of his plans. It might be cruel but this will be for the best that he can learn something from staying with Ziela in the church.
Christopher Larcon asked again if he can leave. Rebecca said that he can. Christopher Larcon left still showing that he is very affected with the decision of the two.
Ziela left as well few seconds after Chito went outside. Ziela tried to go outside as fast as she can to somehow catch Chito before he can leave. To somehow say words like “no hard feelings’ or something.

ZIela Mae Diethral
“What should I say to this guy? No hard feelings? Just following orders?”
“This is for the best so let’s work hard.”
<Sigh>
“Anyway, why am I worrying myself over him by the way?”
“He is an expert liar so he is probably wearing that expression of a hurt kitten or something.”

A guy voice said
“Worrying about whom?”

Ziela was a bit frightened that Chito heard everything she said.
She tried turning around and thinks of an excuse fast. But when she looked it was Enrico Mildano along with a little girl named Kristine.

Enrico Mildano is a bit curious why Ziela said something like that.

Kristine
“She said no hard feelings? This is for the best?”

Ziela Mae Diethral
‘No it’s nothing really.”

Enrico Mildano
“You said that a guy is an expert liar. Is it something about a guy asking you out?”
“Is it about how to properly say no to a guy without hurting his feelings?”

Kristine
“Wow is that true big sis? As expected to a cute girl like Ziela Mae Diethral. I feel sorry for that guy though. For the only guy she is going to marry is no other than Enrico Mildano.”

Enrico Mildano
“My my. That is too much Kristine. We aren’t even lovers and yet you think that far ahead.”

Enrico Mildano smiled to Ziela and said
“Anyway we are going to the riverside with some of Kristine’s friends. We are going to do a picnic there. How about joining us Ziela Mae Diethral?”
“I am sure that the kids would love you to accompany them. That I know.”

Enrico calmly smiles to Ziela waiting for her reply. Ziela happens to like children as much as Enrico does and don’t want to miss this chance of having a picnic with them. But Ziela can’t even think straight because she feels bad about Chito.
Few seconds later Ziela saw Chito from afar that he is riding a Jeepney going home. The vehicle left and Ziela seems to be too late.
Chito after leaving Rebecca Gapagat’s house, he is very upset that they even came up with such an unreasonable punishment. He can’t even convince her to reconsider her decision. He is just upset that sometimes grown ups can’t easily take back what they have said. For what they say is final and there is no turning back on it.

[coldfire01]

Chapter 3 – The truth behind the silent tears
Somewhere around Balthazar Street, Enrico Mildano is running away while being chased by 3 guys. In order to lose them, he tried hiding inside the church.
This is something that you never expected coming from him. Enrico doesn’t have any problems or guys after him unlike Christopher Larcon. He doesn’t even have a gang or grudges to anyone. Enrico is always the type of guy who is always friendly to everyone and doesn’t involve himself in fights.
While Enrico is inside a church, a sacristan there is about to ask him to leave. Enrico Mildano asked politely if he can just stay for just a minute or two until the guys after him goes away.
The sacristan said that he can but he asked Enrico to leave if those guys no longer wait for him outside. The other sacristans might get upset if they let someone in without permission. Enrico agreed.
The guys who were looking for Enrico later stopped at the front gate. They saw a sacristan and asked if he ever saw a guy who went inside. The sacristan said that he never saw anyone arrive from this front gate. Enrico is a bit surprised when he heard that, because he never anticipated that a guy from the church can easily lie for a stranger’s sake. The 3 guys didn’t have a choice but to leave. They tried searching on a different location instead.
The sacristan closed the gate and he looked for Enrico to inform him that he can stay for a few more minutes. Just when he is about to ask, Enrico already ran off from the place where he is hiding.

Enrico planned to leave through the west exit on the other side of the church. He walked cautiously to some balconies and tries to hide himself to anyone as much as possible. He knows that he is not even allowed to enter these premises especially at the dormitories where the sacristans are sleeping.
But as much as he tried to hide, he is still discovered by a girl on the way to the exit. Her name is Emily Ruiz who happens to be looking for her friend named Ziela Mae Diethral.
Emily asked Enrico if he happens to saw her friend. Enrico honestly replied that he didn’t notice her arriving here. Enrico apologized and advised to tell Emily to ask someone from the sacristans if they happen to see her.
Emily thanked Enrico and left. Enrico continued his way towards the west exit. But when Enrico was about to leave, something caught his attention.

“One of Ziela Mae’s friends she said.”
“Having friends specially a girl should be normal.”
“However what I don’t understand is why Ziela is always alone. Even at school she doesn’t have a friend whether if it is a guy or a girl.”

Becoming curious on why Ziela Mae acts like that rotates in Enrico’s head. Uncovering the reason might even be closer to the key to understand why Ziela Mae is like that.
Enrico doesn’t like the idea of asking Ziela Mae’s past directly to her. He finds it very inappropriate to ask someone’s sensitive personal information. He can only assume that Ziela Mae has some pasts with some guy before that is why he doesn’t trust anyone specially men. She can only talk to girls but she doesn’t want to be friends with anyone. Ziela probably fears someone might discover her past is what Enrico can assume.
Rather asking delicate issues like that, Enrico rather wants to ask about what Ziela Mae of what she might likes instead. For instance, on what makes her smile or what types of songs she listens. He would rather like to know that instead or opening old wounds of the pasts.
While looking for Emily, Enrico saw Emily talking to the sacristan from before. It seems that sacristan is still looking for him and could probably asking Enrico to leave. Enrico hid himself on the 2nd floor of the balcony while the two are talking on the first floor.

The sacristan
“Have you seen a thin guy with a long hair on your way here?”

Emily Ruiz
“Yes just a minute ago.”
“Why do you ask? Is there something wrong?”

The sacristan
“No it is nothing serious really. I just want to tell him something, about the guys who were after him earlier.”
“It seems that they are still outside the gate. I was just going to tell him that he can sleep over until they can leave.”
Emily Ruiz
“Oh I see.”
“I understand. If I see him I will just give you a call, Brother Wally.”

The sacristan or Brother Wally
“Thank you very much for that.”
“Oh and about Ziela, She was here earlier but I heard that she went to the Mall with her relatives afterwards. I am sorry but you just missed her on your way.”

Emily Ruiz
“Oh I see.”
“That is alright, I will just go visit her at her home instead then.”
“Thank you anyway.”

Enrico saw how Emily acts and talks to the sacristan. She is very polite and courteous. She even carries a warm smile that is coming from an honest caring person. Enrico is having a hard time seeing Emily’s connection to Ziela Mae Diethral.
Moments later, Ziela Mae’s cousin, Jeff Lloyd Diethral arrived. Emily later talked with Jeff. Jeff is very pleased to see Emily came to visit. He is sure that Ziela Mae will be very pleased as well on her arrival.

Emily asked on how is Ziela Mae’s condition. Jeff replied that Ziela Mae likes it very much here. Jeff is pleased to report that her cousin is finally relieved with the stress that she previously has for the past 3 years. The stress that occurred during her stay and being a resident on her former town.
Emily is very happy to hear Ziela Mae’s improvements. She knows that Ziela Mae had a rough time and Emily wishes the best for her. Emily asked how Ziela is coping up with a new environment. Emily also asked if there are guys like “that one” residing here. Because Ziela Mae cannot avoid encountering those guys again specially if they are like that guy who hurt her the most. Jeff said that Ziela did met one exactly like “that guy” but she is fortunate that she quickly distanced herself away from those types of people.
Jeff asked about any news on their previous town. Emily’s smiles suddenly turned into a frown. It seems that she is affected deeply with that question.
Emily said there hasn’t been any news regarding to them for a very long time. As usual, it is still the same old town and the same people there.
Jeff understands that Emily doesn’t want to talk about it. So he did not ask anymore. He knows that town is still talking about Ziela Mae there and the news about her is still as worse as ever.
Emily just excused herself and said that she has to do something first. Jeff understands and they went on separate ways after that.

Enrico heard everything about what the two talked about. He has now a lot of questions on what those two are really talking about. It must have been really rough for Ziela for the two not to be talking about it. Still Enrico remembered that he still needs to get out of here safely. Otherwise it will be very difficult for him to get out if it goes at night when the church is going to close all those big doors.

Few minutes later, a text came in from Enrico’s phone.
The text said
“Enrico this is Greg. I am just sending this text message to tell your situation. The guys who are after you are actually inside the church grounds. Be careful since they are now on inside the church looking for you.”

Enrico is in a tight situation that he never anticipated that those guys would go far on getting here. Enrico happen to saw one and he is about to go upstairs where Enrico is. Enrico tried jumping down the balcony to avoid them and quickly searched for a place to hide for the meanwhile.
As he walks towards the corridor he saw one of the guys from a far. He searched and saw a confession cabin. Enrico entered it without permission and stayed there for a few minutes.
Enrico waited until those guy leave. Meanwhile Enrico heard a girl’s voice is on the other cabin.


A girl’s voice
“Is that you father?”

Enrico can’t think properly under the situation. So he just imitated a voice of an old man and said that he is.

A girls’s voice
“Father I have a confession to make. I don’t know where to begin but this is going to be an alarming situation that I have.”

Enrico doesn’t know how to react in the church so he said uh huh on a tone of an old man.

A girl’s voice
“I have a friend. But I betrayed her.”
“I let her with the monsters in our town not far from here.”
“I was ashamed of myself at that time leaving her all alone there.”

Enrico is really bothered with that tone of voice the girl has. It sounds familiar then he came to realize that girl is actually Emily the girl who claimed to be Ziela’s friend.
Enrico is now alarmed that Emily might be talking about Ziela Mae right now.

Emily
“My friend, she was sexually abused by those guys and it is my entire fault she experienced that.”
“She really believed that she was loved by that guy who is the leader of a gang in our town.”
“I never got to tell her that guy is not serious at loving her. Still I did not do anything at all to have her avoid that fate.”
Emily
“All because of my selfishness, it is all because I was jealous of her being always the talk of everyone, always the bright one, always the best.”
“Because of my selfishness, my friend can no longer face the people on our town. She is always looked at by the people there are some kind of prostitute who would be willing to do it to anyone. But they are wrong. She was just tricked by that guy. Because my friend believed that gangster he loved is sincere. My friend is really optimistic thinking that she can change a gangster leader to change his ways.”
“But that rumor spread out that she is willing to do it to everyone. My friend tried to defend herself by telling everyone that is not true. But when some guys confirmed it with his boyfriend, that gang leader proudly said that it is true. That shocked my friend that the guy he loved is really just a big liar who is only interested in my friend’s body.”
“She was raped after that by that same gang as well. No one would believe she is raped. And I didn’t do anything at all to make her avoid all of that.”
“I feel so miserable. I feel like the lowest person on earth who would go toward other people just to get what I want. I feel that I am solely responsible for what happened to my friend.”

Enrico is stunned on what he just heard. It is completely beyond everything that he can only imagine. At first he can assume the pains Ziela was probably about his former boyfriend but hearing this is too much. To think that it is completely on a different level.

Emily
“What should I do father? I can’t take it anymore, this guilt eating inside of me.”
“That is why I came to visit her to somehow help her to somehow atone for my sins but I know it is not enough.”

Enrico replied on an old man’s voice again
“Don’t worry child, it is not your fault. It is the fault of those gangsters and not you.”
“The best you can do is report it to the police so that they can see their punishment for their sins.”

Emily
“Thank you father, but I don’t think that is possible.”

Emily said this when she is about to cry
“I wish that would be possible. But on our town, no one believes that my friend is really raped. No one will believe her because the people will rather believe that gangster. It hurts me to say this but it is really unfair. The relatives of my friends tried but they failed bringing justice to those guys.”

Enrico feel Ziela’s pain. Asking for justice but no one is able to provide them any. Losing hope, thinking life is hopelessly unfair. Only those who have power get to have the better deals. Only those who have power get to be noticed and recognized. Enrico remembers it just like before. When he lost the girl he calls his sister to a gangster.
Even after he gained power he is still unable to make a change. He still feels like a small pebble on a big ocean.

“That is not true. This isn’t like last time.”
“I am not like I was before 3 years ago. I am no longer a weakling.”
“I can make this right.”
“This time I can.”

Enrico inhaled deep and then exhaled. His mind is made up.
Enrico replied again on an old man’s voice again
“Do not worry child, those guys may not meet their punishment today, but someday they will. I believe that God is going to give them what they deserve for their sins.”
“What is much more important is now. We cannot change the past but we can change the future. We must be strong building it, protecting it, and as for your friend. Please try to be with her always. She needs your strength. She needs your care. She needs someone like a true friend such as you.”
Emily replied having her tears flowing on her eyes saying thanking the priest for the confidence. She left the confession booth afterwards.
Enrico left as well after a few minutes, making sure Emily is already far away.

Another text message came in from Enrico’s phone. It says that the guys looking for Enrico already left. Message came from Greg.
Enrico went straight to the west exit and met up with Greg waiting there.

Greg
“So what happened there? You don’t look so good? Did they get you? Does it hurt in any part of your body?”

Enrico
“They never got me anywhere. But somehow it really hurts. It hurts right here inside my chest, inside where my heart is. It stings really hard and it tears my heart on what I discovered back there.”

Greg
“I don’t understand what you are talking about. Shall I call an ambulance?”

Enrico
“There is no need for that. Never mind what I just said.”
“I have decided. From now on I will protect Ziela Mae Diethral. I will not let anyone hurt her again. I want her to be respected again, this time on where I live, on these parts of Avare city, on our street here in Balthazar Street.”

[coldfire01]

Chapter 4 – When the wheel philosophy stops turning
3 years ago before Enrico met Christopher Larcon, Enrico sees the street he lives in is the same hopeless, ordinary street.
Why hopeless? It is because Enrico thinks the people here do not care or notice that you are suffering. Or even if they do, they will not help you at all. But if you have the power, the money, the influence they will.

Justin Charzel is not even a native here but the people tolerate such actions coming from a person like him.
Is it because they are scared of that guy? Or is it because that they don’t really care about lower class people like me and big sis.
I don’t understand at all.
I really wish that life is just like a wheel. That those upstairs guys will tumble down on their ranks and feel our current way of life. And we would be upstairs instead. But that “wheel” philosophy is just garbage that is never going to come true to those who are evil.
How long will I stay to be like this? Selling rags on the market waking up early in the morning? I never even get to play with other people since I have to work hard and study at the same time.
I don’t even know the names of my neighbors or the cool kids on our street. I just envy them as they enjoy their everyday life. For me I don’t have time doing that. I need to work hard for the next day so that I can have some food and transportation for school at least.
I was wondering about it. Am I going to be like this forever? Doing the same repeating tasks over and over again? What will happen to me in the next few years?
I already abandoned my childhood when I was 10 years old and started pushing myself hard on manual labor.
The guy I call my dad is just fine working too. Though we are not related to blood, he still took me in just like his own. Even though I was found on a pile of garbage he still decided to adopt me. I don’t know who my real parents are. But I kept on dreaming that one day they will come to pick me up and bring me out of my suffering.
But one day I lost all hope after hearing my neighbors gossiping that I was an abortion baby. I heard them outside once when they thought I was asleep. They said that there were once a couple who previously lived on this area and I was the fruit of their immature relationships.
They say that I was supposed to be aborted but a carpenter who happened to be my current dad decided to adopt me after I was given birth.
I cried a lot when I was young thinking who I am? What my life is worth? Why is the world around me truly unfair?
Rules are for those who are able to be strong. One rule is being strong so that you will not be the oppressed. Justice is really meant for the rich and powerful.
I never saw anyone on the street who have powers and do not get corrupted of their influence. Every one of them is the same.

One day when I visited southwards of Balthazar Street, I get to meet these guys, those who have powerful aliases on the south of Balthazar Street.
Fraternity founders with aliases like Luis Jumar the destroyer, BanJef the Tough guy, Redel the sadistic Devil, Sergeant Aldrin, The tornado snatcher Bar Dagul, X convict Riot and others.
Enrico can’t bear the sight of these guys who are rumored to have powerful aliases. Just watching these guys quarrel and fight with each other proving supremacy makes him mad.

“I wish you guys can kill each other, so that all gangsters will be wiped out in this street. This city is better off without you guys.”

Enrico sees how these guys rage on the street like throwing fights or destroying property in the middle of the street and no one has the guts to stop them. No one would even want to talk with the Sadistic Devil Redel or the X-convict Riot when they harass people. The residents don’t even call the police or anything, because Tornado Founder Zadi and also Sergeant Aldrin are there to make it as accident.

“It is expected. The townsfolk fear these monsters. I don’t blame them, because I understand and feel their fear as well.”

Enrico just walked on a different route avoiding the fights on the street. While walking on a different route, he met Christopher Larcon on the way. While walking past Chito, Enrico never noticed him at all. He just treated Chito just a normal guy passing around the street.
He doesn’t wear anything special or acts like a gangster founder like those guys are. He doesn’t even pick on random people like Redel does. He is just quiet as he passes by Enrico Mildano.
But when Enrico heard some old women talking about Chito at the back he wondered who that guy is.
One of the women said that Chito can even bully Redel and Zadi altogether. He is much more dangerous compared to those two that shows off their ruthless impressions. To think at his young age of 15 he can accomplish that. And if he grows up he can even line himself to become one of the unstoppable 10 of Balthazar Street. He is the silent yet powerful Gang Leader Master Chito, from the Larcon lineage.

Enrico looked at that guy from afar. He doesn’t see anything from Chito that he can be like that. The way Chito talks to the people around him is just calm and simple. He can never be a dangerous guy. He doesn’t even wear the same malicious eyes or his actions show anything he is a bad person. He doesn’t even look like a fighter or something as well.
Enrico just laughed a little thinking that the women are probably spreading false rumors about an ordinary guy. To think that Enrico nearly believed it and got concerned that he might fear that kind of guy as well.
Next day, Enrico became curious about this guy so he decided to see Chito again. Chito might be very upset to be rumored as the guy who is more dangerous than the Sergeant Aldrin or the Sadistic Redel. He is also curious on how that guy reacts on spreading rumors like that. Enrico assumes that Chito might be the one spreading such lies so that people can fear him as well.
Enrico went one day to the arcades where Chito hangs out. He plans on watching Chito play for just 1 hour then plans on doing some homework afterwards. Enrico saw how Chito plays, he always tries everything and he is somewhat good at everything. Whether at any games he is one of the best there. He rivaled so many people and he hardly loses.
Chito is what you can call one of the geniuses at computer games. Many people admire him for the skill he shows. This guy is not the type who will spread rumors. The prank is probably coming from the guys who lost and grew jealous of this guy.
After playing a few games, Chito saw Enrico and asked to play he said. Enrico declined and said he doesn’t know the game’s rules or mechanics. Chito said to take over what he is playing since he received a text message that he needs to go home. It would be a waste if no one to finish playing this game. Chito received another text and just rushed off without saying a word. Enrico saw the arcade machine it is still active. It is just waiting a response coming from a player. He tried playing but as much as he tries he lost at the end.
Enrico enjoys playing it but yet he can never play this kind of game. Most probably never, it is due to his economic problems. He would rather use the money to buy food for a week than play these games.
Chito later came back seeing the game he is playing has ended. Enrico lost at the game since he is new at it. Enrico apologized to Chito for making a game over. Chito just said that is fine. He doesn’t have time playing anyway. Chito left afterwards.
The next day Enrico saw again Chito playing multiple games on that same arcade game shop. As usual Chito is good at any games he played. Chito saw Enrico watching at the back. He invites Enrico but he constantly refuses to play. Chito would really like to convince Enrico to play but judging on how he looks and act, he knew instantly that this guy doesn’t have any money to play. Convincing someone like Enrico to play would be despicable for Chito. Chito understands it perfectly and he did not ask Enrico anymore.
When Chito left, Enrico is about to leave when he noticed that he misplaced his wallet. Enrico tried searching everywhere but he can’t find it anywhere.
Enrico fears that someone might have found it. So he kept on searching hard looking for it. The money he lost is meant to be purchase some merchandise on the market place. His boss will be very upset if he lost such a high amount.
But as much as Enrico desperately search for the money, he can’t find it anywhere. He will lose his job at the marketplace if he can’t find it.

Chito saw the concerned look coming from Enrico so he asked
“How much is missing?”

Enrico looked at Chito and wonders why Chito knows that Enrico is looking for his wallet.
Chito
“Don’t look at me like I am the one who stole it. I am just asking how much is missing that is all. I am here to help believe it or not.”



Enrico
“I apologize. About that, it is probably 2 thousand pesos or more. And the money isn’t mine. It is my boss’s money. He will be very upset and worse I might lose my job if I am unable to return the money.”
Chito
“Ok.”

Chito asked the attention of everyone on the arcade game shop and later inquired if someone found a wallet filled with money. At first so many guys are making up stories that maybe they found it but they didn’t actually found any. Chito did not like that joke.
Chito asked again politely if anyone saw someone who found it. Later someone raised their hand and said that he know something. His name is Tyrone Barajas and he pointed a guy who took the wallet. The guy totally denied and said that he never took anything.
Another one claimed pointing that same guy took it. His name is Kempee Herrero and he also claims he heard that guy bragging he found a big amount while he was eating outside. The guy who picked the money still held strong and still claims innocent.
Chris Perdumus also said that guy is undeniably the one who picked it. He added that guy would probably plans on spending it all. Chris later showed a cellphone shot on that guy picking the money on the floor to everyone.
The guy no longer denied and apologized to Enrico. He later returned the money. Chito just thanked everyone with their cooperation. Everyone resumed what they are doing.
Chito returned the wallet to Enrico. He later asked if all the money is all accounted for. Enrico checked and it is the exact amount. Enrico thanked Chito for doing this.

Enrico was about to leave but he later wants to say something to Chito before he go.
Chito
“Why is there something else missing?”

Enrico
“No. Everything is here. I just want to thank you.”
“And also I just want to tell you something. Those spreading rumors about you, some people are saying that you can bully guys like the sadistic Devil Redel and also the Tornado Founder Zadi.”
“You should do something about it. Otherwise Redel and Zadi will attack you.”

Chito
“Oh about that, don’t worry about it. It is not a big deal if you ask me.”

Enrico
“I mean those rumors might endanger you in the future. I mean if those rumors get to reach them. Who knows what they will do to you if that happens.”

Chito confidently smiled and said
“Don’t worry about it though. They won’t hurt me that I am sure.”
“It is because those guys and I are on the same fraternity before. We were buddies at the Laws of Anarchic Order.”
“If those rumors get to reach them, they probably can’t stop laughing at that joke. They might even laugh all day at their hearts content.”
“So don’t worry much about it. Thanks for the concern though.”

Enrico understands and he later went home to keep the money on a safe place.

Tyrone later approached Chito and asked
“You said the sadistic Devil and the Tornado Founder are on the same fraternity? And you said you are friends with them is that correct Master Chito?”
“Well that is probably the lamest story yet.”

Chito
“You sound as if the truth is better to be told am I right Tyrone Barajas?”



Kempee later replied
“I quite agree with Tyrone there Chito. I mean the truth would be the right response.”
“Why don’t you tell him that those two gang leaders, the sadistic Devil Redel and the Tornado founder Zadi really fear you Master Chito.”

Chito
“No. I won’t tell him that. And besides I don’t like bragging who I am and what I am capable of. I don’t think I would gain anything for explaining it to him anyway.”
“And besides, bragging is not my thing. It kinda gives a bad taste in my mouth.”

Meanwhile, Enrico went straight at his home, thinking.

Enrico
“That would be a good idea though. To get power you enlist yourself to someone who has it. Like the sun shines their rays on you as well.”
“The problem is you will slowly rot like them if you have that power coming from the same roots. He might not be like that today but soon he will.”

Enrico wants to be strong but doesn’t like the idea of becoming strong by joining a fraternity. The way that Chito said that he is with the same fraternity with Redel and Zadi is made him curious about Chito and his entirety.

“I will find a different method of gaining strength. Totally different on what Chito does. I will find my own way of gaining respect without relying on the same evil source.”
“Chito in time might turn into like Redel or Zadi since they are from the same group. I want to avoid that by building my own strength and I won’t be abusive of my power like they do.”


3 Years passed and he now gained that strength that he yearns. He is not the boy that sells rags anymore. Enrico is now one of the young millionaires on Balthazar Street. He also has powerful friends like the Fraternity sub leader Clemente Gastrov of the Crimson Seal powers Fraternity. Gregory Bitanez is also from the same fraternity. On influence there is Advertisement Director Carlson Frederick Chaith and a fashion model Krishia Divina Felihala. And lastly, there is Erica Iba?ez who is a journalist and an ambitious novel writer and his best friend.
After leaving Balthazar Street for 3 years he came back. The first place he visited is the arcade game shop and played a game against Chito. Everyone is amazed on how good Enrico plays at these games and he is evenly matched against Chito. Everyone there is amazed at Enrico for being able to be good at any game as well.
Enrico is proud that he never became corrupted when he achieved the power he worked hard for. Coming back on this town after 3 years he expects that Chito is now the same monsters like Justin Charzel. But he was wrong. Chito remained the way he is and he never became anything like Justin Charzel.

[coldfire01]

One thing Enrico is certain; the rumors are still the same about Chito, probably getting worse or out of hand. He is always rumored to be the bad guy but clearly Enrico sees he doesn’t do anything wrong. He just happened to be blamed for all the bad things since he is like the same group of people who does. He is surrounded with that kind of environment but he doesn’t get affected or influenced by it. He remains who he is without being corrupted. He is like a sturdy wall, impregnable only to what he believes in.
The residents just keep on looking at Chito the same rotten guy though he hasn’t done anything yet. They assume too much on Chito though they know nothing about him in the first place.
Enrico sees Chito’s struggles. Enrico see what he is doing and goes through to protect his friends. He will side with you if you are the one who is right. He will stand and fight with you if they pick on you. He won’t abandon you no matter what.
It is something that Enrico never experienced when he was mistreated by a gang leader like Justin Charzel.
They can’t see the good in Chito but only the bad things he never does.

Overall Enrico respects this guy. Chito has no intentions on taking advantage of people or picking on the weak. Chito is really different from the other gangsters that Enrico encountered so far. Enrico just wished that he met this guy before Justin Charzel.

[coldfire01]

Chapter 5 - The semester ends and the start of the war

Somewhere around middle of 4 to 5 pm, Christopher Larcon is at the classroom, thinking, wishing that somehow the time stood still.
Please don’t turn into 5 PM yet. I am still thinking of something on how to get out of this predicament.
The plans are set. We worked hard organizing everything for the semester break. We are about to roll out and all the preparations are complete. But now this happens. What will I tell the guys about this?
They all worked hard and I can’t just disregard that effort that they made on the mountain climb on the semester break.
Still if I don’t do this I won’t be able to get enrolled next semester if I refuse my aunt’s idea of a punishment.
There is still another matter of that girl as well. That person named Ziela Mae Diethral.

Tina Aldos or usually called Tony approached Chito.

Tony
“You look troubled Mr. Larcon. Is something wrong?”

Christopher Larcon or Chito
“Me troubled? Hmm, maybe about what I am going to eat after class I guess?”

Tony did not ask anymore. She knows that Chito is hiding something again and as usual he don’t like sharing it with other people.
Lawrence Farez grabbed Chito’s neck and ruined Chito’s hair.



Lawrence Farez
“There you go again Mr. Larcon, giving Tony problems as usual. She is just worried about you dude. And it is how to show that she cares and loves you so much.”

Tony got upset and said
“Get a life Mr. Farez. I was just; I mean I was asking about his well being that is all. Don’t give any more ideas about it.”

Lawrence Farez
“Sheesh. You really don’t know how to hide your emotions silly girl.”

Tony
“One more word coming from your trap and I will shove my fist to your throat. Got that Mr. Farez”

Chito just walked away from the arguing two. Lawrence saw that.

Lawrence Farez
“Geez dude. You move like you lack vitamins or something. This isn’t like you man.”

Chito
“No it’s nothing to worry about.”
“I … just have a tiny problem on how to tell my group that we are cancelling the plans, that is all.”

Tony is really worried but Chito really don’t like talking to anyone about it.

Chito went home after all the class ended. He didn’t talk to any of his friends before parting ways for a long vacation. Chito just snubbed everyone and went straight like it is nothing.
When he went home, he went straight to his room. He rushed to his bed still thinking of the next day on what will happen next.
Chito won’t have any problems on making excuses. He is an expert liar so he can quickly think of elaborate lies.
But he doesn’t like to put all hopes to disappear just like that, even if he come up with a perfect lie, it will still not be acceptable for just forgetting the plan.
Chito fell asleep for thinking too hard.
He later woke up after a few hours. From his bed, Chito looked at the stars from the window. He later saw a shooting star.

Chito
“A shooting star.”

Chito remembers it very well. A year ago, he wished on a wishing star.
His wish is about getting a second chance. If he can, he promises not make the same mistake again.
He remembers the day before he made that wish. It was the time Lawrence Farez wonders on why Christopher Larcon is not interested to any girl. Whenever they talk about the cutest girl or the nicest girl around, Christopher Larcon just walks away and shows no interest in such topics.
Christopher Larcon is sometimes teased as a Gay since he shows no interest in women. There was a time that there are rumors that he was cursed by a girl who was a witch. That Witch forbids Chito to love anyone else but her they say. When Christopher Larcon heard that, he just laughed at the exaggerated rumors spreading even in school.


“Is it really a big deal if you don’t show interest in women?”
“Just because you don’t doesn’t mean that you are different or weird?”
Only Christopher Larcon knows why he is like that. He shows no interest in women because he only dedicates himself to one girl alone. And that is the only one that Christopher Larcon loved.
Chito later hear old women gossiping outside talking about a guy living nearby. They are talking about that guy being obsessed about his car more than anyone else on this world. One time the guy sacrificed the medical expenses of his younger brother just to get his car to upgrade. The guy is materialistically obsessed on that car so much.

Chito later realized something.
“What is the difference of me and that obsessed guy?”

Chito is not a possessive type who will spend high on material stuff however he doesn’t get obsessed like worshipping it. However he later finds the same concept behind it. Being in love to a girl that cannot love you back is something that is also somewhat possessive. Something an obsessed person would do.

“No it is not like that. I am not a possessive or obsessed. I am just…. A loser.”
“I regret the mistakes that I made too much.”

He remembers that wish. Chito remembers on how he really wants it so badly. How much he desire for that second chance.

“If I will get a second chance, I promise not to make the same mistake again.”
“If I ever see a girl similar to her, who do the same things as her, who is as kind and gentle as her. I won’t blow this chance again. This time I will make it right!”
“I promise it to that wishing star. No, I promised it to myself, for Joana Marlen that I will.”

Chito got up from his bed. He looked at the Christian books on the top of the shelf for a few minutes. Reminiscing the past, getting the idea that someone who previously owns that book changed this gangster’s life forever.
After thinking it over, Chito slowly gained the strength to continue, now that he bears the confidence, that this time he won’t fail. Chito walked straight to the church in the morning to see his auntie Rebecca Gapagat and also Ziela Mae Diethral.
Meanwhile on where Ziela Mae Diehtral is located, Ziela is thinking hard as well.
Tomorrow will be the day that she will be seeing the political gangster Christopher Larcon. This guy is assuming to be more dangerous than “THAT” guy she knows.
What Ziela doesn’t remember is why she willingly accepted Rebecca Gapagat’s offer at that time. Maybe it is because Ziela was also got insulted on what Christopher Larcon said to her.
If Emily Ruiz would see what she is about to do, she would be very upset at her. Emily Ruiz will not let Ziela which is her best friend to those wolves. Not again to a guy who has power and influence that can make it happen again.
After thinking for a few minutes, Ziela remembered what the reason on why she wants to continue. Ziela feels that Chito carries something different to the gangsters she already know. In a way maybe she can understands Chito better if he is in the church for a month.

And that day arrived. Christopher Larcon walked towards the outside gate where Rebecca Gapagat and Ziela Mae are waiting for her.
As Chito walks forward to meet up with his aunt, the sergeant Aldrin Vanagido saw Chito climbing a stairwell leading to the lookout near the church.

Rebecca Gapagat
“Take a good look Chito.”

Chito sees a group of children around the church, listening as the sacristans are teaching them about the word of God.

Rebecca Gapagat
“From now on, you will be listening on their sessions and please try to absorb the knowledge and hopefully do what they do as well.”

Aldrin Vanagido heard that when they reached the lookout. He and Bobby Hendof can’t stop laughing at what they just heard.

Aldrin Vanagido (alias Sergeant)
“That was quite hilarious. Chito will be teaching about the bible? That would really give a bad stain on the church if he does.”

Bobby Hendof (alias Motorkid Bobby)
“The boys will not believe this one. Chito at the church doing some church stuff? Oh man I can’t stop laughing.”

Chito got upset and said
“You hopeless dunces should shut up. You can’t do this task because stupid people like you do not have the required brains for this. You just have to admit that you guys are hopeless morons comparable to the IQ of worms in trees.”

After Chito said that, Rebecca Gapagat used her fingernails and grabbed Chito by the ear.

Chito
“A.. aa… aww.. That hurts auntie.”

Rebecca Gapagat
“From now on, you shouldn’t talk like an uneducated street brat. Remember you will be at the temple of God so I would like to avoid hearing kids imitating your foul mouth.”

Aldrin and Bobby left right away to spread the word to everyone. Chito thought of keeping this as a secret but knowing those two, they can spread the rumors faster than 3 o’clock.
Ziela Mae is instructed to report all of Chito’s activities every day. She is also permitted to hit Chito if he spoke like a gangster again. She is going to be compensated for the task provided Rebecca added. Ziela Mae just smiled at Chito showing she likes that idea very much.
The first few days, Chito is ordered to attend some bible lessons so that he can learn what the sacristans do. He is told that he himself will be doing that as well on little kids who want to hear stories about Jesus Christ.
Obviously, Chito shows no interest in hearing other people talking in front. Ziela saw that but before Ziela can get near, Brother Wally sat beside him instead.
They talked for about a few minutes. When they are finished, Brother Wally just asked another sacristan if Chito can get his turn in front of the kids.
Ziela and the other sacristans can’t believe what Brother Wally just said. Brother Wally never gave special treatment like this to anyone. All except on Chito especially about the issue on the singing contest.
Everyone there assumes that Chito is up to something no good when he confidently walked in front of the kids. But Brother Wally trusts Chito so much that he is willing to give it a try.
Ziela is confident that there is no way that Chito can speak in front of the kids about the gospel of Christ. But when he got his chance, he told a story to the kids. He spoke of an inspirational story about Jesus Christ’s struggles and also how he gained people’s trust. He even made a quiz to the kids about the moral of the story to make them remember as well.
The way Chito acts in front of the kids is something that you don’t see or expect coming from a guy like him. When Chito speaks and interacts with them, it is like he is a totally different person. The tone of the voice is clear and the enthusiasm is there. He smiles at the children and he is open for questions and problems coming from them.
The sacristans can’t believe that the one telling stories is a gangster leader and founder Master Chito. It is quite amazing that he quickly gained their trust and became friends with the kids as well.
A sacristan asked Ziela about Chito. Since Ziela is the one watching over him, he asked if Chito previously participated to any church activities. Another sacristan heard it and confirmed Chito have never participated or even show himself on this church. But they can’t help but be curious. Because the way Chito acts as if this isn’t the first time he ever done this. Ziela replied that she knows nothing about Chito as well. She is just instructed to report his daily activities.

Ziela has some doubts as well, about Chito’s sudden knowledge about the Jesus Christ. First few days, she assumed that it was just a fluke that maybe Chito got prepared and reviewed some lessons. But days passed, Chito can tell a lot of stories and give some jokes and help children in need as well.
Ziela can’t help but be suspicious of Chito to be accelerated in the activities in great speeds. She is really convinced that this is really not the first time Chito did this. So she inquired about it with Chito’s aunt, Rebecca Gapagat.
When she asked about Chito, Rebecca also doesn’t know it as well. Rebecca does not have any idea about Chito’s activities aside him always at the street. Rebecca Gapagat said that he remembered Chito having leadership qualities. His classmates follow his instructions and he is able to see people’s potential and give specific tasks to them when he was in elementary. However he often put that energy in skipping classes and planning escape routes away from the class. He is always in trouble a lot of times even though her classroom teacher is her aunt herself who is Rebecca Gapagat.

Ziela went outside Rebecca’s office. She later met Brother Wally outside

Brother Wally
”So why did you want to know about Chito all of a sudden?”
“And here I thought you hated the guy.”

Ziela
“I am just researching about him and nothing else. I am his somewhat indirect guardian or whatever you can call it.”
“I need to know how his head ticks.”

Brother Wally
“I see. “
“Very well then, if you want you can ask me about it.”
“I am after all his superior, as one of the head of LAO fraternity. The same fraternity Christopher Larcon is in 10 years ago.”
Ziela Mae Diethral
“So that is why he can ask you any favors he wants. It is because you are buddies then?”

Brother Wally
“Actually no. I don’t accept favors coming from Chito.”
“In the singing contest would be a one time. However when he talked in front of the kids is not a favor coming from him.”
“Instead I personally ordered him to talk in front.”

Ziela Mae Diethral
“Why did you want to do that?”
“What if he messed up and tells random lies. The kids might mimic what he just did.”

Brother Wally
“I don’t think he will mess up because he is not the type who teaches young children evil deeds that is why.”
“But I didn’t expect that he is able to do well either.”
“The reason why I want him to speak in front is for him to learn the importance of what we do and nothing more.”
“But the way he talked to them it’s like natural. Chito didn’t even have a hard time speaking in front. He never ran out of words to say.”

Ziela Mae Diehtral
“Maybe he went to this church and learned a trick or 2.”



Brother Wally
“I don’t think so.”
“I have been here for 7 years.”
“And I never even seen that guy stepped in these walls.”

Ziela Mae Diehtral
“Maybe on another church outside this street.”

Brother Wally
“That I don’t know.”
“We do have regular visits on most of the church around here. I don’t think Chito ever been in any nearby.”
“Maybe he began doing this for a year or so on a church far away or outside the city instead.”

Ziela Mae Diehtral wonders about Chito even more.

Brother Wally
“I could be wrong though. Maybe he really never got inside a church before.”
“He might have learned that by himself.”
“I know Chito, he is the type who enjoys any challenge. He likes to do random stuff like jumping through 3 storey buildings or raw vegetable eating contests. Last time I heard he did a boxing match with the x convict and lose. To his friends, he is never boring. However in reverse, the kid is always bored that is why he kept on switching hobbies.”

[coldfire01]

Ziela still is quite curious on Chito even more. She is not satisfied with what Brother Wally provided him. She later assumes that Chito could be changing consistently. He could never stick his feet at the same spot again.
Enrico later heard news that Chito and Ziela is together at the church. He visited the church to confirm and saw Chito and Ziela are arguing. Enrico did not bother disturbing them since he has a lot of work to finish first. He decided to visit tomorrow instead.
When Enrico arrived at the next day, he saw Ziela mae is having a hard time carrying a big cardboard box filled with clothes. Just when Enrico is about to help, Chito approached Ziela and tried to get the box from her. Chito insists on carrying it for her but Ziela refused. Just when Chito is about to touch Ziela’s hand, Ziela stepped back causing her to trip over. The clothes scattered over the place. Chito doesn’t understand why Ziela is being unreasonable after offering a hand. But Enrico has an idea why.
Just the slightest contact for Ziela Mae from a gang leader like Master Chito is still painful for her. When Chito is gathering the clothes, Enrico helped him as well.

Enrico
“May I have a moment with you Chito, in private that is?”

Chito doesn’t understand why but he just followed Enrico at the rooftop to talk.
At first Chito is pleased that Enrico is visiting him. Enrico is happy to meet Chito however he explained that Chito is not the reason for his visit. Enrico never expected that Chito would be participating in the church.
Chito explained his situation on why he is doing this. Enrico understands however did not anticipate that Chito, a gang leader would be near Ziela Mae. That would make things very complicated.

Enrico
“How long will you be here Chito?”

Chito
“About 2 months or less. Why do you ask?”

Enrico
“Nothing in particular. Just wondering.”
Enrico added
“May I ask another question? This might sound a little disturbing to you. I hope you don’t mind.”

Chito
“Sure no problem. Ask away.”

Enrico
“What do you think about her, about Ziela Mae?”

Chito
“Hmm. Is this some kind of a mind quiz? Because if it is, I am not in a good condition for one.”

Enrico
“Please. I just want to know coming from you.”

Chito
“Alright then.“
Ziela Mae huh, she is what you call a hot tempered woman who get upset on slightest detail. Don’t know why but she gets to show to others that she is frail and innocent but towards me she is as cold as ice.”
“If she keeps up that attitude no one would fall in love with her.”

Enrico
“I see. I am glad to hear that.”

Chito
“Now my turn. What is the purpose of that ridiculous question?”

Enrico smiled and said
“The reason why is, I think I have a crush on her.”

Chito
“You’re lying. What is the real reason?”

Enrico
“That is my real reason.”

Chito
“I don’t think so because your eyes contradict on what you just said.”
“When you look at her, the way you look is like you pity her for some reason.”
“That is not an expression coming from a guy hopelessly in love.”

Enrico
“Man you’re good.”
“The truth then.”
“The truth is, I have a strong reason why I am concerned about her. That explains that is why I feel a bit sad for her. But I cannot tell you or anyone about it.”

Chito
“I understand. I won’t force it out of you then.”

Enrico
“Thank you very much.”
“But, how about you Master Chito?”

Chito
“What about me?”

Enrico
“Why do you still continue?”
“I noticed you want to closen the gap even though Ziela Mae tries to avoid you. Why do you still proceed?”

Chito
“As I said, I am financially broke. If I disobey one more from my relatives then I will really suffer big time.”

Enrico
“I am sorry but I don’t believe you as well.”

Chito laughed and said
“What is the purpose of this conversation if we can’t even trust the words coming out of our mouths?”

Enrico laughed as well and said
“That is true. Maybe because you know the time when we are telling the truth or not, because you know what I am capable of and I know what you’re capable of.”

Chito
“Maybe because we are very talented liars. We just know how to distinguish the fact from lies. We can’t use poison against poison or lies at each other.”

Enrico
“Say what you want to say but going back on the topic, what is your purpose?”

Chito
“I too have a strong purpose but I cannot tell my reason as well. I do apologize.”
“You are right though, it is not for the money why I am here. It is something that I feel I must do.”

Enrico
“Fair enough. I too will not force it out of you.”
“But can you honor a request at least?”
“Can you please forget about Ziela Mae? Please focus on any other girl except her.”

Chito sees Enrico is serious on what he just said. Chito doesn’t have any idea why Enrico likes to restrict him from Ziela.
Chito later remembered a rule that his gang follows. One rule that says, it is strictly forbidden for friends to quarrel over one girl. If there is an argument that both guys have eyes on the same girl then we let the girl choose. But in this situation, Chito cannot afford to lose. He needs to break this rule this time even though there is a 99.00 % probability that Ziela will dump Chito.

Chito
“I usually follow the rules. I know when I am not wanted. I don’t need to become a pest squeezing myself to a place that I don’t fit in. However in my situation and what you are asking me to do, I am really sorry but I cannot do what you want.”
Enrico feels that Chito is determined as well. He understands that it must really be serious for him not to tell anyone about the details of it.
Still Enrico feels that what Chito is going to do is just going to make things worse. He cannot allow Chito to really do what he wants.

Enrico
“If that is the case then I have no choice.”
“You know, I really don’t have any grudges against you. In fact you are the last person I want to fight against.”
“I really cannot allow you to do what you want. If necessary when it comes to worse, I will use everything I have in order to stop you.”

Chito wants to ask why Enrico suddenly got mad but just left without saying a word. Chito don’t know what is going but Enrico is serious. Enrico will do everything he can even if it means going against a gang leader like Master Chito.
After that day, Enrico decided to take part in the church as well.

[coldfire01]

Chapter 6 – Comparing the weight of determination
“You know, I really don’t have any grudges against you. In fact you are the last person I want to fight against.”
“But I really cannot allow you to do what you want. If necessary when it comes to worse, I will use everything I have in order to stop you.”

Those are the words Enrico left stating that he will go far even fight Chito if it means to stop him. Chito doesn’t feel affected much when Enrico is eager to go against him. However it is a first for him to fight with Enrico since he is his friend that has no grudges towards him. Whatever his reasons may be, Chito has no plans on losing. No matter what Enrico might come up to stop him with Chito will still continue.
Enrico wonders as well if Chito knows something about Ziela. He is curious why he is also determined.
Later an idea pops in his mind explaining why. Maybe Chito is starting to evolve and develop the same thinking like the gangster boyfriend of Ziela Mae. If that is the case then he really needs to protect Ziela Mae even more.
Enrico thinks it over. Chito is not like that. He is confident that Chito will not do something to ruin Ziela’s dignity. Chito is a type of person who doesn’t find satisfaction on taking advantage upon the weak. He is the type who challenges the strong instead. He is also a team leader who sometimes prioritizes others before himself. For Enrico, Chito is one of the guys that he respects the most.
But still why is he so determined to continue? Why can’t he tell? All Enrico can assume is maybe Chito know, or might have an idea at most, on what happened to Ziela in the past?

“I don’t think that Chito knows. Because if he does, he would understand that it would be for the best to get away from Ziela as much as possible. Because the last thing that Ziela Mae wants is to repeat the same mistake twice.”

Chito and Enrico have the same goal. They are determined to win the trust of the same girl. But Enrico will have a difficult time, fitting in the new schedule for Ziela Mae. It would also be a problem if his dad knows his plan on skipping all the errands as well.
Enrico thought it over and made up his mind. He then visited the church and he signed up as a volunteer just like Chito is right now.
Chito saw Enrico signing up. He did not say a word to Enrico or rather he tried avoiding him as much as possible. Chito knows that Enrico is going to be a problem on what he is trying to accomplish.

The next day arrived. Ziela is surprised to see his classmate Enrico volunteering to teach in front of the kids. Enrico showed his own way of teaching towards the children. It is a little different from Chito because you can see Enrico still new at it. You can also see that he is a bit scared making mistakes in front of them. Not unlike Chito who somehow shows experience on this field. Because of that, it made Ziela think again about Chito even more.
It should be expected that Chito has the upper hand on the kids. However Enrico gained the kid’s trust as time passes by. The kids enjoy Enrico’s presence because he is funny and he is more approachable than Chito. Enrico also knows a lot about cooking and other day to day practical hobbies. When Enrico cooks, it made the kids gain interest in learning. Chito tried to do that however he lost confidence when he discovered he is not as good as Enrico is at cooking. Chito didn’t continue after seeing the level gap he has towards Enrico.
Chito knows how to cook, however not as good as Enrico is. Chito knows more about how Brother Wally and Ziela Mae operate in the church. However that is not even an advantage to reach his objective. He can’t even get close on getting Ziela’s attention. But Chito doesn’t know that everything he does is actually getting Ziela’s curiosity.
One day Erica Iba?ez arrived on the church to find out Enrico is there.

Erica Iba?ez
“I finally found you Enrico Mildano. So this is what you been up to for the past few days.”

Enrico expression on his face slowly turned serious. He then excused himself to the kids and talked with Erica Iba?ez in private.

Enrico
“I am sorry for leaving without saying a word Erica. But can you please tell my dad that I won’t be going to the office for a month or so. Call it as a vacation leave.”


Erica
“I wouldn’t mind however every time you are off work is also making other people uneasy on their work as well.”
“I don’t like to be the one pushing you to work but the company needs you. I understand that in your age you should be enjoying your youth. However as the vice president of a multi business corporation, it is our priority to see the restoration and stability of the company. Not just you but thousands of jobs depend on you as well.”

Enrico
“I understand it perfectly.”
“However I need to do something first, it might sound a bit selfish but I need to stay please.”

Erica sees that Enrico will not change his mind no matter how hard she asks. She can see it on Enrico’s eyes that he is determined to continue on what he wants.

Erica
“Fine by me. However I need to know what is it that weighed more than the thousand jobs and the company?”

Enrico
“I apologize but I can’t tell anyone about it.”

Erica did not like that response so he kept on asking Enrico. The more she asked the more Enrico became upset. Enrico really doesn’t want to tell anyone about it since he is not even allowed to know about Ziela in the first place.
Erica did not like an empty response. She just left stating that the company will be ruined for Enrico’s selfishness. When Erica left, Enrico just punched the tree near him. It feels like a thousand needles stabbing Enrico right now for the hard decision he just made.

“I can’t abandon Ziela not at this time. Not when Christopher Larcon is around. Chito doesn’t realize that his presence is reminding Ziela on how she suffered. He doesn’t realize that he is accidentally destroying what is left on Ziela’s heart, her heart that is shattered by a thousand pieces.”
“I trust Chito will not do the same thing to Ziela however his existence in front of her eyes is not helping her heal.”
“I believe I have a better chance of healing her heart. I will help rebuild her heart that was once shattered by a thousand pieces.”

SAME PEOPLE YET DIFFERENT

Meanwhile where Ziela is, Ziela is searching for Chito to see what he is up to. Chito became quiet ever since he starts losing the spotlight ever since Enrico arrived. Ziela thinks that Chito is upset and might be up to no good.
After looking everywhere, she saw Chito near the river. It appears Chito is sitting there while his head is lowered toward his knees. He might be sulking and got affected by the loss pretty hard.
Chito noticed that some sacristans are looking at him. The way those guys stares at him, it is like they were anticipating Chito to finally give up.

Chito stands up showing his response. He looked down on the ground for a second. He then raised his face while breathing in some air. He stopped for a second looking up on the sky. He then shouted “YEAH!” even though there are people watching him. By doing so he gained his determination back. However he felt so ashamed so he walked somewhere quiet to avoid the humiliation.

Chito then arrived on the rooftop and talks to himself while looking from afar
“Why is everyone anticipating I am a quitter? Am I really that predictable?”
“Everyone is assuming that I will leave because I lack the patience to stay here.”
“They are wrong. They have no idea that I have been doing this in the past. It is not even a problem and in fact I find it quite easy doing this all over again.”

Ziela heard that. She can’t believe what Chito just said. Ziela just stood there at the wall near the stairs acting like she is paralyzed.
Chito walked towards the stairs. He then noticed Ziela Mae just standing against the wall. Ziela Mae is shocked even more.

Chito
“What is with the weird reaction? You act like you saw a ghost or something?”

Ziela quickly thought of a decent response and replied
“You can say what you want. Make it as an issue if you have to.”

Chito
“Don’t worry I won’t. It is just something new coming from you that is all.”

Ziela
“Whatever.”

Chito
“But you know I am glad you are here though.”
“It might sound strange but you kind of remind me of an optimistic girl. She probably has some loose screws on her head. She is quite annoying about convincing me to change or something. “

Ziela did not speak a word



Chito
“Oh what a drag this turn out to be! Do you know how much it will suck if I were going through all this trouble if I only focus my mind thinking of the money?”
“I nearly forgotten about her but now I remembered. My own reason why I need to keep on going.”

Ziela still did not speak a word.

Chito
“Oh sorry about that. I was talking some random nonsense there. I guess you might call us even. I won’t brag everyone about you being a scaredy cat if you don’t brag to anyone that I am a mental retard talking to myself.”
“But if you ask me it is not even a fair deal since many people on the church really do think I am a mental retard after today.”

Ziela slowly speaks
“What do you mean that you already did this before?”
“What do you mean about someone tried to convince you to change?”

Chito became sad and replied
“That is something that you don’t need to know.”

Chito left after that.

Ziela
“Something that I don’t need to know?”

Ziela remembers that pain again. The pain of all her efforts put into waste. She tried so hard just to convince his man to change. Ziela thought that there is something good in that person. She trusted him with everything. She believed in that person that he will dedicate himself for the better.
But the guy faked himself to Ziela that he changed. Everything was just a lie. He pretended that he was paying attention. He wasn’t really concerned about her. He wasn’t sincere after all. Everything was just a lie so that he can show how manly he is in front of other gangsters. Ziela just happened to be one of the points for that gangster’s scoreboard.
The way Chito speaks and act is similar to the way that gangster x boyfriend Ziela have. Chito is even more suspicious because he is hiding something. It feels like someone suffered a lot like Ziela felt before.
It was already confirmed when Chito said that he remembers someone like Ziela before.

Ziela’s tears can’t help but flow from her eyes.

Ziela
“This is unbelievable. Of all the people that I have to meet again, why is it had to be another guy like him?”
“Much worse is that someone like me suffered and lives in this city, someone who tried so hard to accomplish what I did, someone who also believed and trusts but still betrayed in the end.”
“Why do guys like them have to exist!? Why should we be the one to suffer for their selfish needs?”

Ziela just kept on crying on where she is now.

[coldfire01]

Chapter 7 - Gaining one’s trust but losing another

“Maybe I should have not told her that, about a girl who resembles her. She might be confused and form wrong ideas about it.”
“Probably I should have thrown an insult or two. Yeah that would be better since that is the only way we communicate with each other anyway.”
“Kind of stupid but I wish I can break that enormous wall between us. For just once that we can talk normally and drink tea with each other or something. “
“That would start happening if she can believe the words coming out of my mouth.”

As the days passes by, Chito kept on going without Ziela watching him. He continued on completing his tasks at the church one after the other. As expected, Chito shows his experience in this field. Ziela doesn’t like that so she walks away wherever Chito might be.
It didn’t take long that some sacristans noticed that the two are hardly talking anymore. You can’t even see Chito and Ziela Mae at the same location. Not only the sacristans but most of the kids started to notice it as well.
The kids asked Ziela why she is trying to avoid Chito. When Ziela heard that question, she tried to avoid it by discussing a different topic. The kids can be fooled easily however the sacristans don’t. One of the sacristans asked Ziela but she also did not tell them why.
Enrico also noticed Ziela avoiding Chito. Enrico no longer need to ask since he got the closest idea why.

One time Ziela saw Chito patiently teaching Elise, a girl who has a tragic accident that messed up her spinal cord and several body functions. Elise can no longer write or speak properly. Inspite the physical problem, she is still trying to get it back somehow. However how much Elise tries, her body is no longer cooperating with her.
Chito tried very hard to teach the girl. For some reason, Chito have a high patience with that girl. It feels like something is pushing him to keep on going until the girl succeeds.
It is extremely difficult for Elise to move since her muscles and limbs on her hands are responding on a different way. It is not just a spinal cord problem but also various joints are also not moving correctly thus giving her a hard time to write.

When it is getting late, Brother Wally, one of the sacristans bravely approached Chito. He waited the girl to leave first before he can talk with Chito.

Brother Wally said
“First of all we are very happy that you are taking care of Elise. And also, I would like to ask, please do not continue anymore on what you are doing Chito.”

Chito did not like it. He then asked an explanation.

Brother Wally
“I really apologize for bringing this up but someone needs to tell you this. Because I honestly think no one in this church would be brave enough to talk to you out of it.”
“I myself truly appreciate what you are doing and I understand how you put effort on this. However you should understand that the girl had enough. You tried various attempts already and still it doesn’t work.”

Chito
“What is wrong on keep on trying to find a solution?”
“Is it a crime for people to wish for something good to happen?”

Brother Wally
“There is nothing wrong on trying to help.”
“However you no longer giving her aid, rather you are now becoming ….a pest.”

Chito just sent a chair flying a few steps on the right side of Brother Wally.



Brother Wally replied
“Cute but don’t think that semi bluff trick will work on me. I know that you really don’t have the guts to lay a finger on anyone.”
“But I would like to apologize if am rude to you. I am also sorry if I used an extreme word towards you.”
“But let me rephrase it at least.”

Brother Wally added
“What I meant is that the girl feels your care and determination. You supplied her hope and the ambition to keep on going. However after so many tries and some experiments you made, she began to lose hope. Not only that, she might also start feeling that she is being lied to.”
“That itself will lead to more doubts not to you but to her own capabilities as well.”

Chito can’t help but agree. Brother Wally is right. No matter how much he tried, there is still no progress since the possibility is pretty slim.

Chito
“Why should I follow words coming from a scum like you? I used to remember that YOUR people consistently lay waste on people’s hopes and dreams without remorse.”

Brother Wally
“I understand perfectly that there are no excuses for what our “brotherhood” did on the past. In fact I don’t think working all my life to this church will pay back all the sins that we have made.”
“I am sorry. You are right. Do not pay attention to this old fool in front of you.”

Brother Wally just left without saying a word.

Diana heard the conversation and approached Chito.
Diana
“That was pretty severe words Chito. I can feel those words are slashing through Brother Wally’s heart right now.”

Chito
“I don’t have the liberty to discuss it to you guys the reason if you are expecting for one. “

Diana
“Don’t worry I am not expecting for one.”
“I already know that LAO and you guys go way back on Balthazar Street’s history.”
“I lived long enough as a resident on this town to know who he is.”

Chito
“Your point?”

Diana
“Brother Wally is just being sincere. He has no intention of insulting you. “
“I know that you knew her “conditions” without the need to look at her medical records. There are really times that it might sound cruel but you still need to “indirectly” and slowly tell her that it is the only thing that we can do for now.”
“That girl Elise will thank you for trying though. She won’t forget how hard you tried.”
“In situations like these, it is beyond our control. We are not experts on this field. Though we are talented on a variety of things, we aren’t experts at giving solutions on impossible situations, especially on medical situations beyond our control.”


Chito is stunned hearing it from Diana. Diana is popularly known to give positive comments and suggestions on everyone. She is even like a bright ray of light that gives hope for many. To think that she is the one personally saying to quit is indeed a rare sight.
Instead of becoming upset or sad, he later felt satisfied on discovering something that he never realized before.
Without saying a word, Chito ran off to try that idea he came up. Diana finds it strange that Chito’s admitted he lost quickly. She just anticipates Chito up to something outrageous to prove he is a stubborn guy who doesn’t accept defeat.

Next day arrived. Chito brought several bags and a backpack that is used for mountain climbing. Chito just went straight to the Elise even though everyone is watching him.

Enrico saw it too. He assumes that Chito will now try to use his resources over this matter. No matter how much electronic equipment he has, no matter how many gadgets he brings, that won’t change a thing on Elise’s situation.

When Chito opened one of the bags, he first pulled up a Nintendo DS. The sacristans and Enrico are wondering what Chito intends to do with that video game gadget.
Ziela saw it from afar. As usual Chito makes a scene causing everyone to focus their eyes on him.
Chito tried teaching the girl about playing the Nintendo DS game. Elise tried it at first but she didn’t like it after a few minutes. Chito later pulled out a Playstation portable and demonstrated how to play a game to Elise. Elise understands the mechanics however her body is not moving to the way she wants it to.
One of the sacristans named Dexter asked Chito to stop teasing Elise. Everyone knows that Elise can’t play those kinds of gadgets but Chito acts like he is making fun of her.
Chito did not hesitate anymore so he unzipped the biggest bag behind him. There he pulled out a laptop computer with a bulky monitor with him.
Enrico is intrigued on why that monitor is well protected inside that bag. Chito is overreacting to treat it like some highly sensitive equipment. It is understandable that he needed to place the laptop on a sturdy storage. However does he really need to place the monitor on a better bag as well?
At first Enrico did not expect the monitor to be special however when he remembered the design of that monitor that surprised him even more.

“Time to get serious then.” Those were the words Chito said after pulling that bulky equipment.

Chito pulled some cables out of the bag and started to connect the wires from a desktop computer to the laptop. He also connected the monitor as well.
Chito opened some computer applications and confirmed the processes, double checking everything is working perfectly.
Few minutes later the display showed up on that screen. It is a typewriter keyboard on the screen with huge letters on it.
Chito pressed the letters on the screen and the letter popped on the top of the screen. He later typed the name ELISE to show it works properly. Chito smiled after showing it to everyone.
Chito instructed Elise to type her name or the message she wants to say on the screen. To Chito, it doesn’t matter to him if Elise has limb problems. With the size of the screen as her keyboard, it would cover up any of her problems for typing accurately.

Elise tried typing in some letters, later she tried typing in words, then entire sentences.
Chito is right. Elise never had a hard time expressing her thoughts through typing. She can now communicate easily to anyone with the touch screen keyboard. She can even browse the internet using the computer with the customized program Chito made for her.
The doubts on Chito quickly disappeared after showing an amazing display of ingenuity. The kids and some sacristans can’t resist touching it for themselves the touch screen keyboard Chito just brought.
Diana and Enrico did not anticipate that Chito would be bringing expensive equipments like that to Elise. Chito is really one of a kind. Just imagine that he is the only guy brave enough to lend thousands of pesos worth of equipment to a person he is not related to. No one in Bathazar Street or even in the entire Avare City would be daring enough to do what Chito just did.
Enrico in fact is so amazed that he even clapped at Chito. He later punched Chito’s shoulder for not noticing him. He also locked his arm on Chito’s neck showing how impressed he is. Chito struggled to get free and he also counter locked Enrico instead.
But what the people don’t know is all the gadgets including the touch screen monitor, is actually borrowed from Kris Jacques Drosmand. He is the richest guy on Chito’s group. Chito promised to his friend Kris, that he will return the stuff after a few hours. His only intention is to show to everyone that there is a way for Elise to communicate again. Chito is now worried and actually thinking of a way to tell everyone that the stuff is not his. In fact Chito really can’t afford any of the stuff he just brought today.
Ziela smiled seeing what Chito just did. It seems she enjoyed that little exhibition Chito just made. However that didn’t last long after she remembered who Chito really is. She soon left without saying a word.
Diana left as well. Unwilling to admit she was wrong. She just left without saying a word.
Enrico saw Ziela leaving. He understands what Ziela is going through. Enrico thinks that Ziela now restricted her movements because of Chito’s presence. Ziela is trying her best to stay away as far as possible from Chito.

Just when the day is finished, Chito called Kris to ask for another day or two for the equipment he borrowed. Kris agreed and he didn’t mind at all. Chito went straight home leaving thousands of pesos equipment on his Auntie Rebecca’s office.
Chito came across Ziela on the way out. Ziela carried some papers and ribbons for the preparation of a parade coming this week. Chito offered assistance but Ziela walked away without saying a word.
Chito tried asking again but Enrico stopped him. Enrico asked Chito not to bother Ziela anymore.
Ziela saw what Enrico did. She just left the two alone.

Chito
“You know you are starting to bug me. Why do you insist on stopping me from Ziela Mae?”

Enrico
“No I am not. I just happen to ask assistance on something.”
Chito
“Man that excuse is lame. We really need to end this once and for all.
“By the way, Dude, you don’t have any feelings towards her anyway. So why do you still want to go head against me?”
“What will you gain on doing this? Are you also the type who gains satisfaction on stomping someone like me or something?”

Enrico
“I don’t. I don’t find satisfaction on beating stronger people like you.”
“Also I will never find satisfaction on defeating you.”
“I am not even considering this as a competition.”
“I just want us both to stop where we are.”

Chito sighed and said
“Your words lack the few sentences in the end. It lacks the stanzas where you need to explain the reason why.”
“Besides you got it all wrong. Don’t believe any rumors that I am competing for the best womanizer title in the street. If I am participating on one, I will never involve Ziela Mae on the list.”

Enrico
“You don’t need to make excuses about it for I already know. Besides you are not the type who would be interested in womanizing anyway.”
“Never mind what I said. I am sorry.”

Enrico left without saying a word.

Chito just went outside. Just before he can leave, a group of guys are waiting patiently for him. Guys named Bobby Hendof , Daryl Mildacion and a guy named Karol Falgadan.
Chito doesn’t like the way those guys smile at him.

Karol Falgadan (The pastor)
“So the rumors are true. You suddenly turned into a church hugging guy Chito.”
“Don’t worry. I am not here to make fun of you or anything. In fact I understand the feeling.”
“I too come in a long line of Baptists. So I know the feeling closer than anyone here.”

Chito
“I know that you didn’t come all the way here just to tell me that Karlo the barber. What is the real reason why you are here?”

Karol Falgadan (The pastor) (Chito insults him as Karlo the barber)
“The reason we are here is about something we discussed that you might find interesting so you should also participate.”

Chito
“It depends on what it is first.”

Karol Falgadan (The pastor)
“Oh it will be.”
“We were talking about the longest suspension road around the Nigafia Lake. No other than the Highway 42 Project.”

Daryl Mildacion (The Lupin)
“We were talking about walking that entire road on foot. Are you up to that challenge?”

Chito
“I see no thrill on what you are trying to accomplish.”

Bobby Hendof (Motorkid Bobby)
“Here is the thrill you are after.”
“We were planning on walking that long highway at 11:00”
“11 PM at night that is.”

Chito suddenly stopped walking when he heard that.

Daryl Mildacion (the lupin)
“This wasn’t part of the deal. What do you mean walking on that highway at 11 PM?”
“I thought we’re jogging here on 4 AM to see the beautiful daughters of politicians.”

Bobby Hendof (motorkid Bobby)
“Why you suddenly turned yellow on us Daryl the Judas?”

[coldfire01]

Daryl Mildacion (the lupin)
“Yellow whatever. Are you sleeping inside the refrigerator for 10 years or something Bobby Rabbit?”
“This is Avare City for crying out loud. We are living in the most dangerous city in the entire freaking Metro.”
“We are so popular on TV that all the newscasts are only focused on random killings and robberies on this city. Sadly they are pouring in almost on a daily basis.
“We have so many murders and robberies more than any other cities have in the past 2 years. Those criminals probably considered crime as an art.”

Chito
“You guys talk like the system is rooted corrupt that the police don’t catch anything anymore.”
“Just so you know that the government is now placing hidden cameras to decrease crime rate on this city. They might even be capturing what you are doing in one of those cameras right now.”

Karol Falgadan (the pastor)
“Enough you two, Bobby and Daryl.”
“We are not here to talk about the city problems.”
“So Chito, want to put it on the ultimate test? I mean if we accomplish this feat, we can prove to everyone that this city it still safe on the streets even at night.”

Chito
“You guys are really bored?”
“If you insist then tell me the route of this sick event.”

Karol Falgadan
“Let me explain then.”
“The road is about 49.1 km/30.5 miles long. However we are not stopping there. Once we are the end of the bridge towards the north, we are going west for about 3-5 more kilometers, then going to walk downward back through the active highway back here on Balthazar Street for about 50-55 km more.”
“Totalling it about 105 kilometers estimate.”

Chito
“You are nuts Karol.”
“If it is a mountain I can climb that distance. However at 11 PM at night, there is no way we cannot encounter dangerous people on the way.”
Karol Falgadan
“That is where the thrill comes in Chito.”
“It is like a Russian roulette on a pistol, if we are lucky and fortunate enough, we can manage to pull this off without a scratch.”

Bobby Hendof
“Are you scared Master Chito?”

Chito
“I am not intimated by idiots like you Bobby Rabbit.”
“But since I won’t be having a mountain climb, I’ll play along with you guys.”


Meanwhile, going back on Enrico, Enrico kept on thinking about what Chito said.

“We really need to end this annoying feud. Dude you don’t have any feelings towards her anyway. So why do you still want to go head against me?”

Chito is right. Why should I continue? I mean there is no point if I don’t have feelings for the girl.
However Chito is the same. I don’t think he likes Ziela Mae. Not after knowing that he is one of the gambling guys who claim that they can take her.
But the thought itself has a point. A person who doesn’t have feelings with Ziela doesn’t deserve to push himself to her. The guy who deserves to do that is the guy should only focus on making Ziela happy. That person must have true feelings and pure intentions to do that.
The big question is, do I have the qualities to do that. Do I even have the right to love her after hearing her past without her permission?

Meanwhile on where Ziela is located, Ziela and several sacristans are working hard at placing decorations for the parade coming next week. Ziela is in charge for designing the roses using colored papers for the banners. She is also cut pieces coconut leaves to give it a natural green color.
The group finished the designs after a few hours. It was very long and exhausting work but it was all worth it. Some of the sacristans never got to see the finished product because they decided to go home early. Speaking of which, some of them wants to go home as well but they noticed it is already past 1 am. And also because of that, a female sacristan offered Ziela Mae to sleep over instead. Ziela Mae politely declined and explained that she needs to wake up early to prepare breakfast for his little brother. One of the sacristans insists to escort her home instead. Ziela thanked them for their concern and accepted the request.
Ziela and two sacristans waited patiently outside the church’s gates for a bus to arrive. Ziela hopped in on the first bus and went straight home.
What the sacristans don’t know is Ziela’s house is 2 rides away from the church. Since it is already late, it is very hard to catch the next jeepney or a tricycle to arrive. Ziela didn’t wait any longer and decided to walk instead.
While walking there, she noticed the streets are very dark and creepy at night. She also realized that she is the only person walking on road right now.
Not one vehicle or a human person is walking on the street. Since the streets is just new and are still under construction, it is understandable that only a few knows this place.
However Ziela didn’t know that she is really not alone. There seems to be a guy who kept on following Ziela from afar. As Ziela walks forward, she noticed a shadow of another person is behind her. She saw it after passing by a lamp post.
Afraid to turn around, Ziela walked faster. Soon she starts running. Her only concern is to get as far from that other person as much as she can.
But the stalker finally caught up with her. The stalker placed a handkerchief over Ziela’s mouth while he disables Ziela’s arm.

“I know I should have stayed at the church instead.”
“But my priority is my little brother. He is everything to me and I really need to look after him no matter what.”

Ziela tried to struggle but she can’t overpower the guy who is behind her. After a few minutes, the drug in the cloth took effect. Ziela Mae lost consciousness after inhaling so much.
The stalker carried Ziela to a torn apart house not far from the road. She placed Ziela against the wall and slowly strips off Ziela’s clothes. The stalker went straight on the unbuttoned the shirts and pants of Ziela Mae. He also started to remove the underwear as well.
The stalker enjoys what he is doing right now. But before he can take off the last remaining underwear of Ziela Mae, someone hit him with a chair on the head.
The stalker shook his head to regain consciousness. He checked his head and confirms blood is gushing downward from his head. The blood kept on pouring towards his left eye making it hard to see who he is up against.
The other guy attacked some more. This time he went on the stomach with the chair. He also hit the stalker on the face as well.
When the stalker has fallen to the floor, the other guy kept on attacking. He didn’t stop even after the chair shattered on the stalker’s head. The other guy kept on attacking the stalker even if he has to use his bare fist.
The stalker cannot fight back anymore. He kept on begging to stop but the other guy acts like he doesn’t hear anything. He just continued pummeling the stalker to the ground.
The other guy got tired and stopped punching. The stalker noticed it and saw an opportunity to escape but he wasn’t allowed by the other guy.
Minutes later Ziela Mae regained her consciousness. Though her vision is still a bit blurry, she can still see that someone is attacking another guy.

Suddenly tears flowed from the eyes of the other guy.
“Because of you scumbags, she won’t be able to recover. Because of guys like you, she will spend her life in misery filled with fear of men.”
“Words cannot describe how despicable you losers are. The pain you are feeling right now is not even a portion of the pain she gone through all her life.”
“You can just go to hell for all I care. You can just die right now.”


Ziela screamed when she finally realized her situation.
The other guy is about to continue to attack the stalker but a voice form Ziela caused him to miss the stalker’s head.

The stalker saw it as another opportunity to escape. He crawled desperately and ran away as far as possible.
Ziela is able to see properly after a few minutes. She now recognized that the other guy happens to be Enrico Mildano. Ziela Mae is grateful that Enrico saved her. However she is agenized seeing Enrico’s fists wounded and covered in blood.
Enrico turned his back to Ziela Mae. He just removed his jacket and placed it on his shoulder offering it to Ziela to wear. Ziela Mae wore the jacket and asked Enrico to turn around.
Ziela Mae noticed Enrico’s can’t stop trembling. She also noticed Enrico’s tears can’t stop flowing from his eyes.
Enrico doesn’t have the courage to look back at Ziela Mae. Not after what he said to the stalker. Ziela Mae might assume that Enrico knows her past as well.
Ziela Mae touched the cheek of Enrico where the tears flow. She tried wiping it as well.


Enrico trembles while he speaks
“A…a….. a… are you alright Miss Diehtral.”

Ziela did not speak but she looked down to somewhat nods her head. Enrico doesn’t know if she said yes or she didn’t respond at all.
Enrico tried to control his emotions but he still can’t stop shivering. He can’t stop crying as well. Enrico feels that all the healing process that Ziela Mae has gone through is all destroyed because of this night.
Enrico assumes that Ziela Mae will not trust guys anymore because of this. Enrico feels a tremendous guilt on Ziela for not being able to locate her quickly.


Enrico
“I am terribly sorry Miss Diehtral. I am truly sorry.”

Ziela Mae is so amazed at Enrico right now. In the contrary, Enrico is really trying hard to stop shaking in front of Ziela Mae. He can’t stop not when Ziela Mae touched his face. Enrico can no longer stop shivering much more when he noticed Ziela’s naked body is so close to him.

Ziela Mae
“You know. This is the first time, the first time that a guy cried for me.”

Enrico tries to hide his head
“No you’re wrong. It is just that the blood is rushing my head and I can’t stand the pain.”

Ziela Mae
“I understand.”
“I am just happy that you are the one who came to rescue me.”
“I just can’t explain it but I am so happy that I can finally see a different reaction. Different from the previous people I know so far.”

Ziela mae’s tears started flowing of her eyes. Like a jolt of electricity, Enrico felt the pain of what Ziela is trying to say without saying a word.
Enrico hugged Ziela Mae and asked her not to speak anymore. Enrico asked Ziela Mae to go to his house but Enrico realized that it is not a good idea. He asked Ziela Mae to stay at Krishia’s house instead.



Enrico
“Don’t worry you are both girls and I am sure she won’t mind. Krishia has a lot of clothes so she can lend you some.”
Ziela Mae showed no hesitation and trusts Enrico completely.
Enrico called Krishia to come by a nearby park. Krishia rushed her way with her car and picked up Enrico and Ziela Mae there.
While driving on the way to Krishia’s house, Enrico noticed someone getting off a police car. It is no other than Christopher Larcon who seemed very upset while he talks back at the police.

[coldfire01]

Chapter 8 – When the hatred were to be transferred

Ziela Mae Diehtral slept over at Krishia Divina Felihala’s house till morning. Enrico can’t sleep properly for worrying Ziela Mae’s condition. He patiently waits downstairs for Ziela Mae to wake up.
Enrico looked at his hands. The wounds symbolizes as the trophy for getting Ziela Mae safe. The cuts on his flesh that violently scathed against the sharp edges of the plywood don’t hurt that much. It might sound strange but the feeling of doing something admirable overpowers the swelling pain.
A sound of footsteps came from the stairs. Enrico anticipates Ziela Mae but it was Krishia who walking down the steps.

Enrico
“How is she?”

Krishia
“It seems that she is quite alright. Ziela Mae is taking a bath now. She doesn’t seem to have any serious bruises or anything.”

Enrico
“I am glad to hear that.”
“I apologize for the trouble Krishia. It must have been a major inconvenience to call you in such a late hour.”

Krishia
“Think nothing of it Enrico. I am just glad to help someone in need.”
“Oh I just prepared your friend some of my clothes that she can wear. I am quite sure she will like it. They were my previous collections and they will fit her perfectly.”

Enrico
“Thank you again Krishia.”
“I will call my driver Eduardo to escort her home afterwards.”

Krishia became serious and said
“Enrico.”

Enrico also became serious and replied
“Yes? What is it?”

Krishia bearing the concerned look on her face
“That girl. Where you did you meet her?”

Enrico
“At the church. She is one of the moderators and planners there. Why?”

Krishia
“Nothing. Just wondering.”

Enrico feels that Krishia wants to ask some more questions but she doesn’t want to for some reason. Krishia might be suspicious on Ziela Mae on what kind of girl she is. Unfortunately, Krishia’s intuitions are rarely wrong. Enrico just hopes that Krishia doesn’t uncover what Ziela Mae has been through.

Enrico once remembered the time Krishia told him. It is a story about a co worker who recently performed a premarital abortion. Krishia tried her best to make her co worker to reconsider but her efforts are worthless. Even after presenting herself to adopt the baby, the co worker still proceeded on what they wanted.
The word itself, abortion, stings Enrico’s heart so much than anyone else. So much that he hates people doing selfish practices like that.
Enrico later remembered something else that made his hair stands on end.
Enrico remembered Krishia is able to distinguish people who actually committed abortion. There is a strong possibility that Krishia can discover the similarity on Ziela Mae’s past through her knowledge and expertise.
Krishia is able to feel that girl by seeing how she reacts on babies, her reactions on baby’s toys and cradles. Also on how the girl avoids conversations related to babies. Krishia always say that it is woman’s intuition guides her on knowing people better.

Enrico really wished that just once, Krishia makes a mistake to sense Ziela Mae’s past injuries.

When Ziela Mae woke up, Krishia sees to it that she is well taken care of. Krishia showed the clothes that Ziela Mae can wear. But Ziela Mae didn’t like it since it is too revealing. Krishia understands and showed her an entire room filled with her collections of clothes.
Fortunately Krishia and Ziela Mae’s size is nearly the same. Ziela mae is amazed to see an entire room filled with garments and clothing that is owned by only one person.
After taking a bath, Ziela Mae chose the clothes of her choice and went downstairs to meet up with Enrico Mildano. Enrico can’t take off his eyes seeing Ziela Mae looking like a fashion model going down the stairs. Enrico later looked at Krishia for lending her an outfit that attracts too much attention. Ziela Mae is a girl from the church who doesn’t wear eye catching clothes.
Ziela Mae asked Enrico not to blame Krishia. She explained that she is the one who willingly chose a different set of clothes to wear. Ziela Mae said that it is a nice change for her to wear something that is opposite of her personality. She later asked Enrico what he thinks about her new look. Enrico is petrified to even reply for a few seconds. But he recovered and he proudly replied that she is fabulous. He also added that she has the potential to be like Krishia who is a fashion model. Ziela Mae is pleased to hear comments coming from Enrico.
Minutes later, Eduardo the driver arrived and Enrico escorted Ziela Mae to her home.

Meanwhile, going back on Chito, Chito woke up on the sound of the alarm. Still upset at the humiliation coming from the three who betrayed him last night.

“Those three will pay for that.” Chito angrily replied while he gets out of bed.
What happened last night is they really walked towards the Highway 42 road project. When Chito and Karol reached halfway, they stopped to eat some ramen to rest a bit. Those 3 ran off on a vehicle leaving Chito alone on an area that doesn’t have public transportation few kilometers on the bridge that leads to the expressway on Saimtena District.
They took advantage of the opportunity when Chito is taking a pee. Forced to walk back on foot on his own, Chito only thought of revenge on those guys responsible for this. Walking there on that great distance is never a problem on Chito, however the danger on walking alone tremendously increases.
There was one time that he walked on some alleys that have some big guys walking in the center of the road. Chito avoided as many groups as much as possible.
But as much as he tries, one group picked on him. Chito accidentally stepped on someone’s glasses that he never noticed on the road. Chito pleaded for forgiveness and promises he will not show himself anymore. However he is still beaten by those guys no matter how much he begged.
Pretending that he can’t take anymore, the gangsters left Chito on the ground. Chito is very grateful for his incredible acting. He got off the hook with only a couple of body blows and a blow on the head.
He later continued walking on foot to a nearby public transportation terminal.
But Chito later remembered something. The route he is going is the place where there is never any bad news on Avare City. There are no newscasts on TV on this district because this place is known to be the most dangerous of all, the Zamgiran district.
Somehow communication is blocked here on this district. There was never any bad news on that district in the history of Avare City. The police and any bad information are quickly covered by the powerful groups who govern there.
No one would dare rob or kill on these streets and get to live to see the day after they say.

Chito’s shivers in fear on every step he made on the Zamgiran district.

“What if I get to be picked on by a group on this district? Surely I will never be able to fight back against these guys. They will surely be more powerful than Raymond Ramirez or Jervis Salazar Khoval. Those guys might look at me as some kind of a lookout guy or scout. I really hope that is not the issue.”

Moments later, a police car slowly tails him. Chito just ignored those guys and walked faster. The police car still tails Chito anywhere he goes. Chito felt a tremendous fear that the police might be catch him as a suspicious character on the district so he ran off.
Chito ran towards as much tight corners as he can to lose them. But it was a bad move for Chito for as soon as he walked out that last alley, he just went right outside an open field.
Not even trees not even broken houses he can hide himself. It is just an empty field and a road to the right leading back to the previous alley.
On that same road a police car is driving towards Chito.
Chito likes to go back to that alley but he heard rustling sounds and voices on the back looking for someone. It is possible that it would be reinforcements of that police car.

Chito
“This is bad. Nowhere to run nowhere to hide, this is the worst place to be in right now.”
“If I run I might find myself in more trouble than I am already in.”
“I will just act up an excuse saying I was just passing by.”
“I just hope they can bite that as an excuse anyway.”

The police car slowly parked in front of Chito. One of the officers slowly opened the window and focused a light on Chito to get a good look of his face.

The officer
“Well if it isn’t Chito.”
“Are you lost or something?”
“I think he is really getting over his head these days Herman.”

Officer Herman
“Yeah isn’t it great. Hop in Chito, we’ll give you a ride home.”

Chito felt at ease when it happens to be Officer Herman and Officer Kesler who arrived. He can drive home safely if it is them.
Chito sat at the back seat and they drove forward.

On the way Officer Herman asked
“So what are you doing late at night anyway?”

Chito
“I just love jogging late at night but unfortunately I got lost.”

Officer Herman
“Yeah right jogging.”
“Kesler, drive straight to the headquarters. We have someone to bring in for interrogations.”

Chito got upset
“Hey don’t. Tch fine then.”
“I actually got tricked that is why I am walking all the way home.”

Chito explained everything to the two officers. Officers Herman can’t stop laughing on what he just heard.


Officer Herman
“Oh man that was pretty extreme coming from you Chito.”



Officer Kesler
“If you ask me everything about him is extreme.”
“Who do you think you guys are anyway, some kind of unstoppable force or something to be confident to waltz on dangerous streets on late hours?”

Officer Herman
“Maybe they are out to pick a prostitute or two.”
“Young men these days are so bold. They are different not like on our old days.”

Chito
“You guys shouldn’t focus on reminiscing pasts and insulting kids. You are the justice here. You guys should focus your strengths on catching a big fish to clean the streets.”

Officer Herman
“But we already did catch the biggest fish ever am I right Kesler?”
“And he is sitting right on the back seat of this car.”

Chito just got upset even more.

Officer Herman
“Oh man I can’t stop laughing. Sorry if we have to tease you a lot today Chito. But we are grateful you just given us a wakeup call.”


Officer Kesler
“I do apologize but he is right Chito. I mean we don’t feel sleepy anymore ever since you arrived.”
Officer Herman
“Let’s do this often. How about paying a visit again tomorrow? Same time about 2 in the morning that would be great.”

Chito
“Not a chance. This will be the last time you will see me late at this hour.”

Officer Herman
“Is that so? Kesler drive straight to the interrogations room. We really need to turn in our big fish tonight.”
“Just kidding.”

Chito’s anger kept on building up because of the jokes coming from the officers. The muscle pain he feels from his knees also reminds him of how he got tricked by those 3. Right now Chito is boiling mad at this point.
Few minutes later, the police car arrived at their destination. They are now in front of Chito’s house. Chito got off as quickly as he can to avoid more insults.

Officer Kesler said before they go
“We apologize for the inconvenience Mr. Larcon. Please forgive my friend if he offended you or anything.”

Officer Herman
“Yes please have mercy on us Chito. We have a family and kids. Don’t hurt us please. We’ll do anything just spare our lives please.”

Officer Kesler
“Quit it Herman. We’ll be leaving now Chito.”

The two officers drove off. When the police car left, a teenage boy saw and heard what those officers said.

Chito looked at that teenager with angered eyes.
The teenager ran off in fear of Chito. The kid forgot to pick up the groceries that he just bought.
Chito didn’t notice the plastic bag and just walked inside his house and went straight home.

Little Chito knows that Erica Iba?ez saw him from afar and she happened to see why that kid ran away. She also saw Chito’s reaction on the grocery bag. Erica just took the groceries and looked for the teenager who left it.

Going back again on the current time. Chito took a bath and got dressed to go on another day on the church.
Meanwhile Enrico Mildano and several sacristans are talking about a field excursion where the sacristans can relax even just a day or two this summer. Brother Wally suggested spending some time on a hidden waterfall that his friends once visited. He also said that it would be perfect for Father Cornell to hold a session there since it is quite peaceful.
Brother Wally showed some photos at the time where he was still the part of the LAO fraternity. Most of the photo shots happened near the waterfalls and they really enjoyed the cool crystal clear water there.
Some of the sacristans asked if there is enough space for all the sacristans to be there. Brother Wally replied that they were a group of 25 and they just rented 2 big tents. If it isn’t enough, they can still rent one more just in case. Brother Wally explained that the water is rumored to have healing properties that many tourists kept on coming back for it.
The sacristans carefully thought it over. They soon agreed upon the proposal. All there waits is just the approval coming from the priest and Rebecca Gapagat.
Meanwhile, Chito walks in the church. Pretending he is not a bad mood, he just gathered any of his remaining strength to push a smile on his face to everyone.
The thing about Chito is he really is a good liar. No one knew the difference whether he is really in a bad mood or not. He is predictable when he wants to be one, but he is unpredictable when he seriously wants it.
No one noticed that Chito is just pretending all except the Youth Council Chairman who looks at Chito from afar. He just can’t help but smile while he watches Chito.
Ziela Mae is in a good mood when she visits the church. She greets everyone with a smile on her face. She finds everything like the weather and the sky wonderful, because she felt her importance once more after being saved by Enrico. The feeling that she felt once is back again. This time it is not coming from a gangster.
Few more minutes, she met Chito on the way. It is like time froze when the two are facing at each other.
Chito just said hi. Ziela Mae replied a hello. After a few minutes they walked forward only to bump each other by accident.
Chito and Ziela Mae apologized at each other.

Chito
“After you Ziela Mae.”

Ziela Mae
“Alright. Thank you Chito.”

[coldfire01]

It is a first for Ziela Mae not upset towards Chito. Also it is a first that Chito is clumsy in front of a girl. Much more that he is no longer upset. It is like Ziela Mae’s presence took it all away.
Before Ziela Mae can leave, Chito said something like it is a wonderful day today. Ziela mae replied that it is but just walked away without saying a word. Chito wants to speak some more but anything he can come up will just fail miserably towards Ziela Mae because she is still trying to avoid Chito.
After seeing Chito tried several times, the youth council chairman approached Chito just to walk past him. Even though the chairman did not speak a word, it somewhat bears the meaning similar to something like “Do you need help Chito?” Chito just wear the facial expression toward the chairman saying “I don’t need your help.”

Ziela Mae is in good spirits that day and doesn’t have plans spending it talking to Chito. She is feeling so happy that she decided to write a song. So she prepared her notebook and went straight to the rooftop on her day off to write something.
Ziela Mae strums the guitar strings hoping to find the tune that connects the lyrics for her song. She writes down the words and the chords along the way. She made some erasures and corrected the rhymes to polish the song.
After a few hours she sang the song to complete it. She prepared her cellphone to record the song she is about to play. Ziela Mae put her heart on that song on how she feels upon being saved by a guy on that night.
Just after pressing the stop on the recording button, a guy, the youth council chairman, happened to be listening on the rooftop with her commented her on the song.

Youth Council chairman
“That song is magnificent. Is that your original composition?”

Ziela Mae doesn’t know that the guy with him is the Youth council chairman. Still even if she knew, she does not like it when someone listens to her song uninvited. So she started packing her notes and guitar and prepares to leave.

Youth Council chairman
“I am sorry. I didn’t mean to eavesdrop at your song. I never got the chance to excuse myself in the middle of your song. It would be rude if I do that.”

Ziela Mae just ignored the guy and just picked up the scratch papers around her.


Youth Council chairman suddenly acted like a gay and replied at Ziela Mae
“Hey don’t stand out like daisy thinking like I am nothing. Didn’t you hear that I was just commenting you Sistah?”

Ziela Mae suddenly stopped at her surprise the guy who commented her changed his voice.

Youth Council chairman
“Where is the gratitude Miss Gay? A simple thank you would suffice.”

Ziela Mae didn’t need to think it over. She just decided not to waste her time on this guy or gay in front of her. Ziela Mae just continued arranging the papers that she made for the lyrics.
Ziela Mae finished arranging the hand written lyrics in proper order. Just when she is about to reach for her guitar, the guy with Ziela Mae handed over the guitar.

Ziela Mae grabbed the guitar and said

Youth Council chairman
“Is it really that hard for your tongue to talk?”
“Or you are just stunned to see that I am more womanly and prettier than you?”

Ziela Mae is started to get annoyed. She looked at the guy in front of him to check what he claims. The guy just made facial expressions making him uglier. When Ziela Mae got to see that, she slowly began to laugh.

Ziela Mae
“You really have some nerve saying that to me and acting big.”

Youth Council chairman
“Acting big you say? Do not misunderstand. I am just simply implying the truth.”

The Youth Council chairman even made some sexy poses proving he is prettier than Ziela Mae. Ziela Mae just can’t stop laughing again with the guy with him.

Ziela Mae laughed some more.
Ziela Mae
“Oh I just can’t stop laughing. You are such a riot. You….Umm…”

Youth Council chairman
“Call me Nelson. But Nilda the wonderful goddess would do.”

Ziela Mae
“Very well Nilda Goddess.”

Nelson the youth Council chairman
“No, you got it wrong. It’s Nilda the goddess. Remember it very well since you are the presence of royalty?”

Ziela Mae
“I am sorry your majesty, Nilda the Goddess.”

Nelson or Nilda the goddess
“Yes as perfect because I am a goddess.”

Ziela Mae didn’t have a hard time accepting Nelson or Nilda since he is a gay. Ziela enjoys being accompanied by a gay since everything to them is positive. They are cheery and filled with energy as they are gay.
Nelson asked Ziela Mae if she is new on the town. Ziela Mae replied that he just moved 3 months ago. Since she is new, she is still having a hard time looking for a peaceful place where she can practice. Nelson said that he knows a place that people rarely visits.
Nelson showed Ziela around the back area of the church not far from the sleeping quarters of the sacristans. Ziela Mae wonders what the place is all about. All she sees is just a wall and some plants on a pot placed against it.
Nelson reached a small ledge on the corner of the wall and pulled it using both hands. The wooden wall moved and gently moves the plants away as well. Slowly the wall was just a cover to hide a passage way towards the inner parts of the church.
Ziela Mae asked what is behind the wall. Nelson said that it was an old bomb shelter in the old days. The stone walls go way back to the previous war and even to the old Spaniard migration. Some say that the spirits of the old still wander around the passageways.
Ziela Mae said that she like a quiet place to practice but not in dark places like that. Nelson replied not to fear since they are not planning on going down the church but going to go upstairs instead.
Nelson invites Ziela Mae to take an adventure going through secret passageways that only a few knows about. Nelson assured that no harm would come to Ziela Mae. She is always welcome to go back if she finds it dangerous.
Ziela Mae has some doubts on what she is going to do. She decided to take a peek first to see a little bit of the path she is going to take.
Ziela Mae sees a stairwell going down that have some weird voices coming out. Nelson explained that those noises are from blowing air that is so small that kept on hitting the surrounding walls of the passage way creating a sound. It is the scientific explanation why people mistake them as voices.
Ziela Mae also noticed another stairs this time going up. Nelson said that they will seeing some passageways that lead to places in the church that she will never expect. One of them is a place where she can freely practice.
It was really hard for Ziela to trust someone like Nelson upon the first meeting. But when he saw Chito coming her way she suddenly stepped in the passageway to follow Nelson.

Ziela doesn’t understand why she suddenly decided to hide from Chito. But apparently she got herself in a situation that she can’t back out easily. Nelson assured that no harm will happen to Ziela Mae. Nelson again explained that Ziela Mae is still welcome to leave anytime she wishes.
Chito noticed the wooden wall is opened up. Chito just pushed it back in and placed some plants on it so that no one can see.
Going back on Ziela Mae, Nelson shows around the passage way leading upstairs. At first they can still step on the stairs but slowly as they climb upwards, the stone steps on the stairs are cracked and greatly damaged making it hard for anyone to climb.
Nelson stopped to show Ziela Mae a small gap in the hole. Nelson asked Ziela Mae to take a peek to see where they are right now.
Ziela Mae takes a little peek and at her surprise she saw a view facing towards the seats of the altar leading to the front gate. Judging from the angle, she is currently behind the big cross on the church.
Nelson explained that this is the place where they lock in the big cross in the altar. 100 years ago some sacristans pulled some rope toward a pulley above them to lift the giant wooden cross. But it was too heavy for them. Suddenly one man voiced out asking help from the townsfolk to pull the cross up. One by one the townspeople offered help and they all worked together as a team until the job is done.
Today you rarely see people lending hand he said. It probably is nice to live in that time. Where people are stand united for the common purpose, lending hands without hesitation when someone is in need.
Ziela Mae agreed that it would be nice if people don’t disregard traditions like that.

Nelson remembered to bring Ziela Mae to the place quiet for her to practice. They now proceed to the top of the church near where the bell is.
Nelson said that the schedule for the bell ringing would be tomorrow so they would be fine. He also said that it is important that Ziela Mae knows when she should visit since the bell is quite noisy if you are near it.
Few steps from the bell are a little straw house and a small garden around it. Cool breeze blows up coming from the lake making it a relaxing place to stay. There is even a swing and also there are electrical outlets on it. There are some houses for the doves on the back of the house as well. All of it is located at the top of the church that only a few sacristans are allowed to enter.

Ziela Mae asked if they are even authorized to enter these grounds. Nelson replied that Father Cornell would not mind if it is the youth council chairman would be up here. He said that he is one of people who are maintaining the place. Nelson can always ask permission from the priest to tell Ziela Mae as one of the authorized people.
Nelson remembered that he and his cousin spent some time here when he was little. He also said that he previously brought his classmates on the secret garden base is what they previously called it.
Ziela Mae like the place but it is too much for her just to practice a song. She said that she like a place not too elaborate where she can relax like a park. Nelson understands and did not convince her anymore.
Speaking of cousin, Nelson remembered to show Ziela Mae something.
They went downward again leading to another wooden wall. Nelson pushed it slowly and on the other side is a place like a music room where there is a piano there.
Ziela Mae is impressed that Nelson knows a lot about this church and all of the secret passages. Nelson explained that the passages here are not that too obvious to be called a secret because they are made of wood. Not unlike the old days when they are still made of stone. 20 years ago those revolving or loose stone walls collapsed due to age and they are replaced with these wooden walls.
Nelson asked Ziela Mae if Nelson can play a song since Ziela Mae sang one. He said that he feels bad for hearing Ziela Mae’s composition without permission so he will be playing one in return. Ziela Mae replied not to be bothered by it for she doesn’t mind. But Nelson insists. Ziela Mae agreed then.
Nelson sat in front of the piano. He pressed some keys to check if it is in tune. Once it is confirmed, he started to sing.
Nelson sang his own hand written song. The voice he presents is quite lovely. The piano keys that he presses match the mood of the song. It bears a tone that is smooth flow that is backed with wonderful calm voice.
The lyrics of the song are also good. It is about a song about the city he lives in. How he longs for something like the past relived again. Lessons from the old traditions should be preserved.
Overall it was a wonderful song. The message is delivered in a refined manner. Ziela Mae felt like her song pales comparison to the one she just heard.


Ziela Mae
“That song is beautiful. I feel really bad about my song after hearing yours.”

Nelson
“Don’t say that. I feel your song too. I feel songs have weight on it and I feel yours.”

Ziela Mae
“What do you mean by weight of the song?”

Nelson
“The quality of the song varies depending on the weight of the determination and the spirit that the author portraits.”
“Songwriting is an art. Like the canvas, the message of the author is pressed as a hidden message on the fine strokes.”
“I feel yours is like a fulfillment that you never reached for a very long time, a satisfaction or regaining something that is lost by gaining something anew.”

Ziela Mae did not reply but it shows that she got hit by the words Nelson just said.

Nelson
“To be honest I can never write something like yours. Because the way you wrote that song is quite heavy. It drowns me thinking that the words, the tone, and the strums of the strings you used and how it connects and intertwine.”

Ziela Mae
“Don’t say that. With your talent and skill that surpasses mine ten folds. I am sure it will not be a problem for you to write a song similar to mine.”

Nelson
“Yes I can probably write something like that. However it requires passion on songwriting, something that I don’t have anymore.”

Ziela Mae
“What do you mean?”




Nelson spoke in a serious tone of a guy
“I want to continue writing my own songs. But if I do that, my cousin will start feeling bad about his own capability again.”
“For so many years I unconsciously took the spotlight from him. For my cousin, songwriting is the only thing that he can confidently claim he is better.”
“By singing his own handwritten song he can be proud. That is the only thing he can be superior to me.”

Ziela Mae doesn’t understand but Nelson said not to think about it much about it. They both went outside but they later encountered Chito.

Nelson spoke in a tone of a guy
“Hello Chito. Is something wrong?”

Chito
“Auntie Rebecca is looking for you.”
“Unfortunately I was ordered to be the one to find you Cousin.”

Ziela Mae
“Don’t tell me he is…?”

Nelson hushed Ziela not to speak. Nelson just excused himself and went straight to the office. Not too long Chito also left without saying a word.
Chito is just upset seeing his cousin is able to do what he cannot do as usual.

[coldfire01]

Chapter 9 – New path after being lost

Nelson Larcon (youth council chairman)
“Ziela Mae Diehtral. She doesn’t seem to be that hopeless of a girl that many assume she would be.”
“She is rather interesting I can give you that.”

The tall captain of a basketball team Arthur Geraldez
“Surely you jape fine ser. Spite of that I am quite intrigued with what you do next.”
“Simply put, must that be the act from a child from a highborn status? Ranked youth chairman in Balthazar Street if I may add.”
“You my friend just pressed status as gay for her sake that you plied?”
“What happens if the wind spreads the words? It would be an uproar to the house of Larcons indeed.”

Nelson Larcon (youth council chairman)
“Please don’t talk like that Arthur. I am not a highborn as what you think I am. I am just a normal commoner as well like you and me. And also can you please speak normally? It doesn’t suit you talking English gibberish.”
“Reason is I acted like that in order for me to get near.”
“Sound strange might it would be, the girl may not react upon my presence if I haven’t. That girl needs someone to make her smile. Someone to relieve her off from the pains she is enduring.”

Arthur Geraldez looks at Nelson’s facial expression

Nelson Larcon
“What is it?”

Arthur Geraldez
“Please sire, do tell me if you grow fond of such a delicate flower. Tell me more for I am intrigued as you or even more.

Nelson Larcon
“No I don’t. I just happen to be dragged by my curiosity.”
“I just like to see firsthand the girl in the rumors would be nothing more than that.”

Arthur Geraldez did not ask anymore. Nelson Larcon is not really interested since he explained that he is already dating the governor’s daughter. A highborn dating a highborn as well Arthur understands.
Meanwhile, Chito is thinking about what he just saw. His cousin Nelson Larcon is able to be friends with Ziela. It seems he only needed a day to gain Ziela’s trust. Also he never had a hard time on it. How is he able to do that he wonders.
Maybe it is because he looks decent enough like Enrico Mildano. Ziela Mae likes tidy guys instead of dirty black shirt wearing gangster like Chito.
Then again that is still not enough reason, because Ziela Mae rarely makes friends whether it is a guy or a girl. It is a known fact on Balthazar Street.
Nelson Larcon is a class valedictorian in his batch in high school, also excellent in college as well. He is also good at sports. Chess champion on the city. He is one of the smartest Larcons in the street. Nelson Larcon is always the guy who he is being compared to Chito

“Why can’t you be like him?” That is what Chito relatives always say.

“Why? Even if I worked hard and put tremendous effort on it, I will still not be able to reach him. I have my limitations and that guy already went past beyond mine ten folds or more. That guy is just too much. He is truly a genius at everything whether sports or academics. No amount of hard work or training can get you to be close to levels of those born with natural talent.”


Chito worked desperately to reach Nelson. Bent only to regain the attention and respect of the Larcon family he studied very hard. But as much as he tries he cannot even get close. It is like he is blessed to have every talent routed to him while Chito receives is the latter.
Nelson is what Chito calls the guy that gained the talent of the Larcon bloodline. But one thing Chito is confident that Nelson cannot do. It is songwriting. That is why Chito perfects the one art he can confidently claim he is above.
Problem is Chito is completely unaware that Nelson is still far better even at songwriting.

Chito is really baffled on how he is able to be close to Ziela Mae. Chito hates the fact that it is another proof showing Nelson is indeed good at everything he puts his mind to. But instead of being upset that he is outclassed one more time, he finds inspiration from it.

“There is a possibility even if it slim. If my cousin can do it then I can do it as well. Problem is I am not a genius like him but I am sure I can find an alternative on where I lack if I put my mind into it.”

Chito feels much more confident that he will be able to find an answer in time. All he needs is to think is on how. He got only 1 month left to figure out an answer. Because that is the only time remaining left for him to stay in the church.

Not long the day of the vacation arrived. After getting the permission from the priest and Rebecca Gapagat, the sacristans along with Enrico, Ziela Mae and Chito decided to go the Hidden Paradisa waterfalls on next week.
Everything is going smoothly however upon their arrival, Aldrin Vanagido the sergeant and his entire fraternity the Insomaniacs or INSO gang happen to be on that same mountain as well. Among them is the three who betrayed Chito who is Bobby Hendof, Daryl Mildacion and Karol Falgadan.
Chito saw the entire force of Aldrin Vanagido’s group that is present near the waterfalls. Their ranks complete starting from the founder up to the lowest.
Fraternity Founders like Aldrin Vanagido alias Sergeant, Bobby Hendof as Motorkid Bobby, Daryl Mildacion as Lupin, Karol Falgadan the pastor, and former Tornado gangster sub founder Emanuel Qualias alias the Jumbo and active Tornado gangster member Lester Gracille as Dude the rat.
Sub founders like Jasper Fresden the Ifugao ninja, Stephen Jacques Hue the Korean novella boy, Lyle Shuiron the Solar hand baker, Nagasaki the poorest Japanese kid, Alfred Drosman the Carding Sungkit, Luisito Kukile the looter dancer, Julian Pladana the shark, Lucian Haganate the Terrible, Joshua Saranggani the Kalihim, Daren Takino the sharp eye, and several others that doesn’t have a title or self proclaimed names.
Most of the no titled members are mostly girls on their group. Most of the girls also are from the dance group called “Chaotic Forbids”. They seek a name for themselves and also to get a chance for popularity by enlisting themselves on that group. The founder of that group seems to be unable to join them since he has a lot of workshops to attend to on the local television station. He is no other than the one titled Dark sniper Elwin Drosman who is the older brother of Alfred Drosman.

Talking about rotten luck, seeing so many titled guys in the same location is a rare sight but it is a big problem for Chito. They suddenly became overwhelming. Just like the time Chito meeting Redel’s insane gang which is composed of fraternity founders and criminal records as members.
Aldrin Vanagido seemed to be busy playing his PSP while sitting above a big rock. While the others are arguing who will cook and some are actually busy staring beautiful women at the falls.

Aldrin Vanagido
“Boom! Creamy!”
“Man this game is just too much fun.”

One of them, named Lyle Shuiron, happens to saw Chito coming in with several sacristans.

Lyle Shuiron (the solar hand baker)
“Hey guys, look who paid us a visit. It is Master Chito.”

Jasper Fresden (the ifugao ninja)
“Why of all the people do you have to notice him? Unless he has some cute girls then that would be a different story.”
Bobby Hendof (Motorkid Bobby)
“Cute girls? Where? Did someone say girls?”

Daren Takino (Sharp eye)
“There you go again Bobby rabbit, acting like a rabbit again just the sound of someone speaking about girls.”

Bobby Hendof (Motorkid Bobby)
“Shut up Daren the blood seeker. Just go find some sanitary napkin with blood or something to quench your thirst.”

Daren Takino (sharp eye)
“What did you say Bobby rabbit? Want to start a fight with me?”

Joshua Saranggani (the kalihim)
“Those guys are always calling each other with weird names.”
“Motorkid Bobby is not even bothered at all that a fraternity founder like him is not being respected. Much more that he has a title in Balthazar Street.”

Karol Falgadan (the pastor)
“That is because titles are nothing but garbage.”
“Even if you Joshua have gained a fancy alias or name it really doesn’t matter.”
“What matters the most is actually how your image is engraved to the minds of the people.”

Joshua Saranggani (the kalihim)
“Oh I see. So that is how it works then.”
Daryl Mildacion (the lupin)
”Best example of it is that guy Lucian Haganate. He is titled Lucian the terrible.”
“He is not feared as a terrifying guy but a terrible person to make deals or trades. He is a scam lord on the online game community.”

Karol Falgadan (the pastor)
“Yeah and another example of it is Brock the head.”
“He is really not a big tough guy who owns a group but just a guy with a bigger skull.”
“That is why he is called the head.”

Joshua Saranggani (the kalhim)
“Gee you guys sure know a lot. This is my first fraternity that is why I don’t know much about what is going on.”

Chito heard what those guys are saying. He wanted to join in the conversation but he was too busy unpacking the bags.

“Those guys are completely wrong. Titles are not garbage. It is something that you need to earn. No matter how much amount of money you possess, you can never buy a real title. That is because real titles can only be gained by the people who declared you upon with it.”

Thinking about revenge, Chito is about to approach Bobby but he noticed another group is also at the waterfalls. It is no other than the previous friends of Ziela Mae Diehtral along with his cousin Jeff and her best friend Emily Ruiz who decided to prepare a surprise reunion with Ziela Mae.
Ziela Mae is very happy to see her best friend Emily Ruiz again. She asked Brother Wally if she can stay on her friend’s tent instead. Brother Wally and several sacristans replied giving her full permission.
Just after Ziela Mae asking her request, Chito also asked if he can stay on his friend’s tent as well. He saw some of the Insomaniac gang members and he would like to stay there. Brother Wally just replied he can as long as Chito will be back for whenever he is needed.
Chito just left his bag on the care of the sacristans. He doesn’t trust the insomaniacs for they might randomly pick on his stuff.
After preparing the tent and unpacking the bags he went straight to the Insomaniacs.

One of them named Luisito Kukile (the looter dancer) said
“Do you have any business with us Master Chito?”

Chito
“No I don’t have any business with you guys. But I was just wondering if I can invite you for a drink Luisito?”

Julian Pladana (the shark)
“Sounds like fun. Count me in as well chito.”

Chito
“Sure no problem Julian Shark, but we need to make it more interesting.”

Julian Pladana (the shark)
“What do you mean?”

Chito
“Let’s play a punishment card game. Loser will drink this instant iced tea that I have. And I have plenty enough to go around.”

Suddenly Chito gained the attention of many Insomaniac members eager to participate. Chito just said one at a time. They will get their turn in time. He just needed 3 players to play with him.
Punishment Card Game – Level is water. That is the name of the game Chito says.
Some insomaniac members expected liquor will be added but Chito did not add any. It is just a plain iced tea mix poured with water from the waterfalls.
Chito wears that evil smile and explained the rules. As he said that the loser of the card game will drink 1 glass every time he loses.

Brother Wally happened to see what Chito is doing. He didn’t expect Chito knew about the punishment card game. It is a despicable game that is another specialty by the LAO fraternity.
Enrico also happen to see what Chito is up to. He asked Brother Wally about the game. Brother Wally replied that Chito is about to do a nasty mind game with the entire Insomaniac gang. Enrico asked if it is even possible to do a mind game on an entire fraternity. Brother Wally said that Chito won’t even have a problem since he is a tricky guy to begin with.

Brother Wally told a story to Enrico about the nature of the punishment card game. 11 years ago before Chito even visited LAO fraternity; Tommy Riguno found a big jug of multivitamins that only ages of 50 above are allowed to intake.
Tommy had a nasty idea and proposed a punishment game to consume the entire jug of capsules. They played a card game called lucky 9 for its past pacing. The loser drank one multivitamin per game.
Even though Tommy is the one who came up with the idea, he ended up losing more than anyone else. When he got upset, Tommy raised the stakes by doubling, sometimes tripling, then up to ten capsules per game. Unfortunately he is still the one drinking all of the vitamins.
Some of the LAO members changed the card game into block pair or poker to make the game longer. Still it made Tommy drink the vitamins.
LAO members get to see and feel the effects of massive overdose of vitamin intakes. Some have green urine for weeks that smelled like medicine. Some can’t sleep well due to the energy each capsule brings. Some even lost it by just staring to the space like they are on a different world.
Tommy’s dosage is ranging from 30 – 50 capsules per day. He is the highest to take in so many vitamins. Tommy said that he doesn’t feel anything weird on his body except for the green urine and sleepless nights. But when he participated in a drinking liquor sessions (and also some drugs), his mind snapped. He began to act differently and started mocking the police and stealing from someone else’s gang. Those are the things that Tommy would never do even though he is drunk.
What brother Wally wonders is what Chito is up to for bringing that dangerous game again? What is he planning with the juice? Is he planning on making them intake so much sugar on their bodies?

Meanwhile, Chito is maintaining a slow paced game. He played it slow and smooth while waiting for his enemies to react. They are playing the game as Chito plans. Luisito Kukile and Julian Pladana are starting to become impatient because they are getting thirsty.
Chito aims to make the people on the table to get thirsty by making the game as long as possible. That is his intention so that these guys would intentionally lose. If they do then that is the time they would start thinking of ways to drink the iced tea.
Slowly Luisito Kukile kept losing the game and already drank 3 glasses of iced tea. Jasper Fresden also drank 2, Julian Pladana drank 1 and Chito is 0.
Chito started the plan. He requested to change the card game’s rules into lucky 9 to make it fast. Rules of lucky 9 are you pick 2 cards from the deck. The 2 cards will have a number and should add up with a value of 9. If it is then you are safe however if it is a very low number then you have to pick another card once to change the sum. You can either keep the 2 cards if it is already enough or near the number 9 or you can pick another hoping to make it close to the value of 9.

[coldfire01]

Julian Pladana and Lusito Kukile don’t mind the new rules. In fact they seem to be enjoying the free drinks. Chito is pleased to hear it coming from them.
The deck is reshuffled and they played the card game.
At first the Insomaniac members are laughing at Chito with the stupid contest he comes up. If this keeps up, he will be using all the iced tea before it reaches everyone. For the drink would be consumed by the 3 insomaniacs.
Chito doesn’t seem to be concerned at all. He is still confident that his plans will work out perfectly.
Slowly the iced tea is being consumed and Chito mixed another batch. It is already the 4th full pitcher already and he is now seeing the effects from the contestants.
Luisito Kukile is starting to feel his stomach is filled with iced tea. When his turn is up, he tried to drink the iced tea but he can’t anymore. Luisito asked if he can put it on the tab for the next turn. He promised to drink 2 glasses if his turn is up. Chito doesn’t mind as long as he will drink it all.
Next game is reshuffled. Luisito Kukile lost that game. He is forced to drink 2 glasses of iced tea on that turn. Luisito drank one more glass but he can barely drink it all. Being mocked by his brothers in the fraternity, Luisito forced himself to drink all that iced tea.
If you can see the look on Luisito Kukile’s face, it is like he is like a stuffed pig who can’t handle the amount of the iced tea. Water is starting to spout on his nose and not long he threw up the iced tea along his breakfast at the river. His body can no longer contain the massive amount of water intake.
The other people who are swimming nearby wonder why Luisito Kukile threw up. When they saw the table has a pitcher of iced tea and a glass of water, they expect they are drinking liquor early in the morning.
Not long Jasper Fresden threw up as well. He can’t handle too much iced tea. The insomaniacs are enjoying what they see. To think that Chito is making people barf with just plain iced tea.
The table became so dangerous. It became even scarier when Chito wore that facial expression that has an inviting smile at the officials of the insomaniacs luring them to join.
Daryl Mildacion is the first one to approach the table.

Daryl Mildacion (the lupin)
“That is some interesting trick you have there.”
“Do you have room for another player?”

Daren Takino (sharpeye)
“Careful Daryl. That is probably what he learned from that wicked fraternity LAO. “

Bobby Hendof (motorkid bobby)
“I wish I can be at LAO fraternity too. Before they broke up that is.”

Daren Takino (sharpeye)
“Why do you want to be in that dangerous group Bobby?”

Bobby Hendof (motorkid bobby)
“Just think about it. LAO is known to have good skills in picking quality meats. They have the best lineup of cuties in the entire city.”
“If we can get the black book of phone numbers of those girls then we’re talking big man.”

Daren Takino (sharpeye)
“What do you mean by black book of phone numbers? Are you referring about their contacts of girls or something? Like they will keep something like that around.”

Bobby Hendof (motorkid bobby)
“I am quite sure they will keep one. I mean it is like log entries on trips or cruises. They use it as the journal to record their daily events like arrivals and departures. That is also used to help the investigations if the boat sinks.”

Daren Takino (sharpeye)
“That is not even similar to the contact list you are talking about. You really don’t make any sense.”

Karol Falgadan (pastor)
“You shouldn’t wonder any more about our founder. Instead you should be amazed that he has high levels of imagination. Just leave it to the most substantial speaking guy in Balthazar Street to give us words of wisdom that is out of this world.”
“His words are full of nutrients. Just like the brains of a rabbit who only think is reproducing.”

Chito (master)
“I believe there is a book like that lying around the hangout.”

Chito caught the attention of the insomaniacs on what he just said.

Chito (master)
“Yup I just saw it when I was cleaning but I don’t think it will serve any purpose anymore.”

Julian Pladana (shark)
“What do you mean by that Chito?”

Chito (master)
”Just think. Last time the LAO exists is around 7 years ago. In the past 7 to 10 years, don’t you think those babes might already be too old and possibly married?”

Bobby Hendof (motorkid bobby)
“You are right. They are probably no longer as cute as they were before.”
“But I am still open for hot mamas anyone got the fever?”

Daren Takino hit Bobby Hendof in the head.
“You idiot! This is why there are so many people spreading rumors assuming that our group is filled with sex freaks like you.”

Bobby Hendof (motorkid bobby)
“It is not like you are no different Daren the blood seeker.”

Karol Falgadan (pastor) and Julian Pladana (shark)
“You are the only one who is like that Bobby. Don’t compare that we are the same.”

Chito (master)
“Ahem. Anyway about you guys joining in. Wouldn’t it be unfair for me, who already drank so many liters of iced tea to be participating on fresh candidates such as you guys?”
“I mean where is the sense of sportsmanship in us is all if we don’t let it slide a few glasses that I already drank right?”

Daryl Mildacion (lupin)
“You are right Chito.”
“So what do you guys intend to do about it?”

Bobby thought of it for a moment.

Bobby Hendof (motorkid bobby)
“Screw the rules. We just want to see you the one who made this prank, barfing water on the river just like our guys so no skipping turns.”

Most of the group agreed with Bobby Hendof

Chito see that there is no room for negotiations with these guys. So he stopped the iced tea on this fight. It will just be normal water to be played this time. Daryl and Bobby don’t mind the plain water as long as they can play.
Chito asked if he can pee before the fight. Jasper Fresden and the others want to object but Daryl and also Julian Pladana don’t mind as long as Chito will return.
Chito went inside the bathroom to pee. He also tried a sly move to forcing himself to throw out the iced tea off his stomach. Chito did that by putting his finger on his throat. Chito doesn’t want to show to everyone that he will be barfing water.
Chito return on the table like nothing happened.
“Let’s begin then.”

Daryl Mildacion (the lupin)
“So what are the rules for today?”

Chito
“We’re going to play Pusoy Dos. Any objections?”

Bobby Hendof
“Now you’re in big trouble. That happens to be our specialty. We gamble using that rules on a daily basis. Before breakfast and after meals they say.”

Chito
“That is the reason why we’re playing that game. So that if you lose you won’t have any more excuses right?”
“It will be a complete loss

Chito angered the 3 founders on that table with what he just said. Daryl Mildacion, Bobby Hendof and Julian Pladana and Karol Falgadan played on the table.
They began to play the game. Chito played some deceitful tricks like saying he can win using the lousiest deck that he has. When Bobby believed Chito’s deck is weak, he totally lost. Chito just said that to provoke players to challenge his deck.
Daryl is the calmest among the players.

Daryl Mildacion (the lupin)
“Poker is a psychological war game where you fight using your face. Even though without speaking, the strength of your cards is already written all over your face.”
Chito wonders about it if he can really win against these guys. These guys are gambling most of the time for a living for some. Chito really needs to keep a keen eye to these guys for they may be good at cheating and passing cards below the table.
When Chito disovered that they are cheating, he decided to continue on a different location such as above the rock where Aldrin is playing his psp.

The game continued, slowly it turns into a tight game for the 4 players. The participants’ scores are all even and tied to 4 glasses of water. Most of the Insomaniacs assume Chito will be throwing out very soon. Chito pretended that he can’t take anymore by acting like one. Chito looked back at the Insomaniacs wearing that expression saying I am just kidding. But when Chito looked behind the river, he happened to see Ziela Mae who is washing some dishes on the other side.
Ziela Mae saw Chito and several guys are drinking water straight from the river. They just get one glass everytime they lose. She doesn’t need to ask what is going on. One thing Ziela is certain though; she knows that Chito is just toying with them. Another proof that he can do whatever he wants whenever and wherever.
Ziela just finished washing the plates and walked straight to her tent.
Chito feels that cold chill coming from Ziela Mae. It is like she misunderstood something.
“I really need to do something about that Ziela Mae doing that to me. I feel like I have a great sin towards her or something. It is becoming disturbing and annoying.”

Bobby Hendof
“Hey Chito it’s time for you to drink. Don’t stare out of nowhere just for you to skip turns.”

Chito
“Yeah I know. Hey wait it’s not yet my turn to drink. I have a four of a kind you jerk. It is you who must drink.”

Bobby Hendof drank another glass of water.
Hours passed, Bobby Hendof is hardly holding up the water in his body. Daren Takino happens to visit the comfort room just to pee but he is still having hard time containing the water in his stomach. The least worried about barfing is Daryl Mildacion and Chito Larcon. But the problem is Chito already drank at least 7 glasses (nearly 2 liters) counting from the previous 4 glasses he already drank before.
The Insomaniacs assume that Chito should be the first one to barf since he drank the most numbers but some have respects on him since he is actually as calm as Daryl Mildacion. It is starting to look like the battle for the 2 instead.
Who will barf first? Master Chito or Daryl the Lupin. Both titled guys are popular for their trickery and deception.
Karol Falgadan said to Daryl that if he wins against Chito, he can prove to everyone that he is the most deceptive guy in Balthazar Street. The other Insomaniacs agreed.
Chito on the other hand is completely unaware that Daryl Mildacion is the trickiest and most deceptive guy in the street. Chito doesn’t even need to gain the position he said.

Another hour passed, Daren Takino and Bobby Hendof already threw out their lunch on the river. The only 2 dueling is Christopher Larcon and Daryl Mildacion.


Daryl Mildacion
“I used to remember when you played a chess game with me Chito.”
“You were the worst player I have ever seen. No sense of strategy and always doing redundant tricks.”
“Playing this game with us is a good example of it. You are just doing this head forward without any refined strategies of winning.”
“Unfortunately but you will lose this fight, because you haven’t prepared enough strategies to support your actions.”

Daryl Mildacion showed his hand of cards. It is a full house with an ace and 2 queens on the top. On the middle it is 2 of a kind on the number 3’s. Bottom is straight flush.


Daryl Mildacion showed his deck to his friends and whispered
“This is like a hawk eating a rat that is cornered. I can say the same thing to Chito right now.”

Daryl awaits Chito’s reaction upon the cards that is dealt.

Chito trembles while he speaks. His voice is a bit weak and has a deep manly voice
“Ahem Let’s make the game interesting. What if we increased the stakes a bit? Like loser will drink 10 glasses automatic on this one. What do you say?”

The Insomaniacs felt the pressure on what Chito just said. Chito seemed very confident that he will win even though Daryl has one of the highest possible hands.

Daryl Mildacion said to his friends not to fear Chito. Chito is just bluffing using that voice and also that facial expression of a confident loser. Daryl Mildacion explained that there is hesitation upon that “acting” Chito displays. The tone of the voice is used to scare his opponents making them fold even though they have higher cards. However the facial expression of hesitation still shows. It means he has doubts of scaring a strategist like Daryl the lupin on this situation.
Daryl Mildacion still stands upon his decision and even accepted Chito’s proposal. There is no backing out on what he just said.
Chito did not smile when Daryl agreed. Chito usually smiles when the situation turns to his favor. He just quietly inhaled and exhaled while arranging the cards again.
Chito heartbeat is running faster than usual. He also breathes slowly as well. It looks like Chito trembles in fear to lose the game. The insomaniacs noticed it as well.

Daryl Mildacion
“See I told you. That guy is just bluffing when he said that so that he can provoke me to fold.”
“He has a lousy set of cards that is why he mocked me. Unfortunately for him, I cannot be provoked so easily.”
Chito showed his deck to everyone after arranging it. His eyes are filled with anger while placing it on the deck.
It is 2 aces and a jack on the top, Royal flush on the middle and 4 of a kind on the bottom.
Chito stood up from his seat showing confidence on his deck. It completely overpowered the deck of Daryl Mildacion.

Chito
“I heard what you just said Daryl the Lupin. But you didn’t anticipate this to happen right?”
“Even a rat can bite the eye of the hawk upon desperation when cornered to protect his life.”
“Also my strategy differs when I am upset. Don’t focus on the facts that I am a loser on chess tournaments. Because when it comes to you guys, I will have a different mind from what you know in the chess tournament.”

Chito walks out the table after saying those words. Daryl lost and he was provoked by the insomaniac members to drink 10 glasses of water for the loser. Daryl Mildacion barfed out after drinking only 5 glasses. Daryl has never been insulted like this all of his life.

Before Chito can leave he is approached by Aldrin Vanagido the sergeant.
Aldrin Vanagido
“You think you can just bully my buddies and walk away like you wasn’t even bothered Chito the clown?”

Chito did not speak a word.

Aldrin Vanagido
“Why don’t you stop with the mind games Chito and start insulting people straight on the face. Why don’t you pick on someone your own level, for example me?”

Chito
“I just remembered we are out of the mountain. The police will really have a hard time reaching you in time here if something happens.”

Aldrin Vanagido grabbed Chito’s shirt up
“Don’t worry a thing about it. I won’t even need support to do you in.”

[coldfire01]

Chito smiled and replied
“I was just kidding Aldrin. Sheesh you are so easy to gaud.”
“I have no grudges against you Sarj. It is something personal I need to deal with the 3 of your buddies that is all.”
“They went too far. So far Daryl is down on my list. I only need to focus 2 more.”

Aldrin Vanagido
“Why did they do something to you?”


Chito
“It is nothing serious to be concerned of. Just a little prank and I returned it with this prank as well. Aside from that there is nothing more.”
“You can punch me in the face or something once I am done with them.”

Chito pulled away Aldrin’s arm off his shirt and walked straight back to the tent of the sacristans. Aldrin is not satisfied with the answer and wants to ask more but he just let go of Chito for now.

Meanwhile, Brother Wally is amazed at what Chito just did.

Enrico Mildano
“So this is what Chito is capable of.”

Brother Wally
“The mind game monster at his finest; That is Master Chito for you. His title is not really for show.”

Enrico looks at Chito from afar. No wonder Chito is called Master Chito. He is like a criminal mastermind with dastardly tricks and deceptions running on his head. Enrico feels that Chito is really different from what he used to know. He has some doubts if he can really anger a guy like him, a guy who fearlessly capable of messing minds with the Insomaniacs.

Meanwhile on where Daryl is,

Daryl Mildacion (the lupin)
“That guy Chito. He just won round 1 for all I care.”


Bobby Hendof
“Round 1? Don’t you mean Round 2? You already won by deceiving him in that dangerous walk to the newly built highway.”

Daryl Mildacion
“I didn’t trick him you know. It was your big idea of leaving him alone Bobby, not me.”

Bobby Hendof
“Oh sure blame it on me. Just who the heck said that it is dangerous to stay at night near Zamgiran District? You were so fast running towards the quickest ride home to avoid being killed.”

Karol Falgadan
“Enough you two! This isn’t the time to be arguing.”
“I personally didn’t like what he just did. He just walked in front just to insult us and walks out like nothing.”

Bobby Hendof
“Why didn’t you pummel him before he leaves Karol? Surely some of the guys would back you up.”

Daryl Mildacion
“Unlike you Bobby who only thinks like a rabbit, Karol has brains. If he picked on Chito right after winning, he will look bad to everyone as a sore loser.”

Bobby Hendof
“Oh I see.”
“Hey wait, who are you calling rabbit, you Judas!”

Daryl Mildacion
“Don’t call me Judas. You were the one who abandoned us.”

Bobby Hendof
“Judas is a perfect title for you. You usually leave most of the time if you assume the outcome to be least favorable for you, just as what you did to Chito.”
Daryl Mildacion
“Is that so? Just wait and see what happens next. Next time it will be more favorable for me.”
“Master Chito my a**.”

Chito walks back at the sacristans’ tent. He is thinking about what Ziela Mae again.
Chito doesn’t feel the victory that he achieved. It feels empty like he lost miserably again.
Not until he can actually accomplish to improve relations to Ziela Mae that he can truly feel better.

“That girl really resembles Joana Marlen Lanzodes. It is really annoying.”

After finishing chores and sessions with the priest, Chito explored a bit of the area before swimming. He needs a place to get inspiration for a song. He has this kind of habit whenever he goes to a new territory.
Chito saw a tall tree far from where the camp that is near a cliff. Chito says it is perfect place to gather material. He climbed up all the way to the top. Once there, he saw a magnificent view of the mountain side.
The leaves and branches are distributed comfortably at the top. It is like a grass field floating in the air that he can sleep on. He is able to softly presss down his body weight on it. Chito is sleeping on a leaf mattress on the top of the tree.
Chito is so pleased to discover such a wonderful place. It really is like a paradise. The breeze coming to his face is cool and the leaves sway around tickling his body. The branches are firmly equal, not too big or too small to break and they don’t have any sharp edges that can hurt him.
Unfortunately not known to Chito that he is alone, it seems that someone is watching him down below.

Chito is quite satisfied on what he saw. He also noticed that he is already far up about 5 storey high. Chito wonders if he can survive if he falls that high. Feeling a bit scared, he climbed down instead to swim on the cool water from the falls.
But Chito doesn’t know someone climbed up the tree afterwards. With a knife he chopped deep cuts on the branches. The slashes are scattered and hidden enough so that Chito won’t be able to notice it at first glance. The next time Chito climbs, those branches will break and Chito will fall.

Next day, Chito decided to visit the top of the tree again. Back to the rare tree that can support his body weight. He returned this time with a notebook to write on. He is ready to write the next song.
He climbed up the tree not noticing that some branches are already damaged and some missing. Chito rests his body at the top of the tree and writes a song.

“This place is so perfect. I would feel really bad for keeping a place like this all for myself.”

Chito heard a familiar voice of a girl looking for Jeff. He tilts his body to the side to see who it is. And it happens to be Ziela Mae Diehtral.

Ziela Mae Diehtral
“Where did he go to this time? Everyone is worried looking for him.”

Chito noticed that branch he is on is creating a cracking sound. Slowly Chito tries to lower his weight but it was already too late. The branch snapped causing him to fall from that 7 storey height.
Chito tried desperately to grab anything but he can’t get any grip to any branches. Though he also grabbed the leaves and vines, just for a second or two slowed the speed of him falling to the ground. It wasn’t enough he can’t get a decent grasp to anything. He is still being dragged by gravity to the ground.
Chito plummits fast and got hit by a sharp edge of a branch while going down. He lands miserably to the ground with just his right foot to absorb the impact. Chito felt the instant pain slamming to his brain. He bends over slamming the soil with his head, bearing the pain without screaming.
Ziela Mae got startled to see a man suddenly jumping in front of her. Because of that, she accidentally stepped back causing her to fall to the slippery cliff behind her.
Chito saw that and he rushed towards where Ziela Mae is. Ignoring the pain spite of the injury he still went forward. He too also falls to the cliff.
Chito tried to reach Ziela Mae hoping to save her. But they are sliding quickly down to the mountain base instead.

Once they reach the bottom, Chito
“Ouch that really was a fun ride. I wish we have this kind of cliff back home to push people.”

Ziela Mae
“You can push people all you want. I will be going back to the camp.”

Chito
“I don’t think that would be easy feat Ma’m. Just look around.”
“We just happened to fall from a very high and steep cliff. There are no easy ledges to climb up. Plus the grass is slippery due to that moist humidity of the area making it impossible to climb without equipment.”

Ziela Mae looks around her to see. She understands and looked for a different route and once she saw one she decided to walk there.

Chito tried standing up, but when he put pressure on the right foot, it began to strike pain.
Ziela Mae noticed Chito suffering.

Ziela Mae
“Please don’t try that hurt kitten drama would you? For goodness sake, I wasn’t even hurt not one bit.”

Chito was a bit insulted so he tried standing up again. He can stand up however his knees are shaking very badly. His face maybe a confident one but his eyes are moist filled with tears about to flow due to pain.

Ziela Mae
“Suit yourself if want to try hard on pretending. I did say that I don’t believe you. I don’t want to be a victim of your mind games like the Insomaniac gang.”

Chito quickly kneeled in pain. He tries to stop the bleeding on his right arm as well, the cut that he got after falling from that tree.

Ziela Mae
“You really are not faking. What happened to you?”

Chito
“Please don’t concern yourself to me. I can handle myself very well without your help. This is a fake blood and this is just a big orchestrated scenario I am doing.”

Chito tries desperately to move from his location even though he can only use one foot. He fell down a few times by trying but he doesn’t give up and stands again.
Chito noticed Ziela Mae is not leaving. She also has that concerned look on her face.

Chito
“What are you looking at? You can go ahead without me.”

Ziela Mae
“You just read the words out of my mouth. I will be leaving now.”

Ziela Mae walked ahead of Chito. But she can’t feel sorry for Chito so she went back.

Chito
“Now what?”

Ziela Mae
“Do you really think that I can just walk away after seeing you like this?

Chito
“I wouldn’t mind. I already know that you hated my very presence ever since I stepped in your territory -the church-.”
“Just act like what you usually do and just walk away. Hate me like you always do!”

Ziela Mae got affected with what Chito just said. She somewhat shivers while speaking
“Don’t say that please. Believe it or not, I am here to help.”

Chito angrily replied
“Do you really think I would accept help from you?”
“I would rather be willing to feed myself to the wolves than accept assistance from you!”

Ziela Mae
“If you are going to be that stubborn, then so be it.”
“But at least let me bind your wound and stop the bleeding. That is the least I can do.”

Chito wants to speak some more but kept quiet after seeing the depressed look on her face.
He slowly lost the will to talk back after seeing Ziela Mae kneeled in front of him. Chito totally did not object anymore after smelling Ziela Mae’s fragrance when she is near.

Chito is stunned; he waits on what Ziela Mae is going to do next.

Ziela Mae said after looking at Chito’s wounds
“I need you to close your eyes for this wound.”

Chito
“Don’t worry I can manage to endure it. I am quite capable of withstanding several kinds of pain on the body.”

Ziela Mae
“No that is not what I meant. Please. I just want you to close your eyes.”

Chito doesn’t understand why Ziela Mae wants him to close his eyes. He turns around and closed his eyes as Ziela Mae requested.
Chito hears a sound of ripping clothes. Ziela Mae is probably ripping part of her clothing to make a bandage to stop his arm from bleeding. Chito can’t help but some weird thoughts and tried to imagine what Ziela Mae is like right now after ripping her clothes. He chuckled a little thinking about it.
Ziela Mae binded the wound and stopped the bleeding. She called upon Chito to say it is finished. Chito looked at his arm and at his surprise; it is wrapped with real bandages. Also Ziela Mae still has complete clothes.
What Chito wonder is where Ziela Mae kept those bandages? What is going on with her and why does she have these bandages? She couldn’t keep these with her swimming outfit for she doesn’t have any pockets or bags with her.

Chito
“Ahem…….Um……I…. ... Thank you.”
Ziela Mae did not speak a word and just kept quiet.

Chito
“I …. I mean I shouldn’t. Or what I mean to say is.”

Ziela Mae and Chito said “I am Sorry” at the same time.

Chito
“I am sorry I yelled at you and called you names. I really apologize if I have been a jerk in front of you.”

Ziela Mae
“Don’t take all the blame. I was wrong as well you know?”
“I apologize for treating you badly as well. I never gave you the proper respect towards you.”

Chito and Ziela Mae slowly look at each other from eye to eye. They suddenly looked away from each other.

Ziela Mae
“About your ankle, I believe it’s broken. It would be best if you don’t move around too much. You might make it complicated if you force it.”

Chito
“Easy for you to say. How can I go back using one foot up on the mountain?”


Ziela Mae
“I will support you there.”

Ziela Mae took Chito’s arm and placed it across her neck and shoulder.

Chito is a bit bothered and replied
“You gotta be joking right?”
“There is no way I can face everyone in a pathetic position like this. Much more when a girl is helping me back to camp.”

Ziela Mae
“Why is it because I am hurting your image? I cannot look weak because I am a leader of gangster?”
“All for the sake of the gangster pride?”

Chito sighed after looking at Ziela Mae. Chito can’t react after seeing Ziela Mae wrapped around his arms. He is also hypnotized of Ziela Mae’s fragrance. Ziela Mae smells very nice. Chito can’t identify what flower she uses. He also feels unfortunate but somehow feels lucky under the circumstances.

Chito replied
“Please don’t make me remember the gangster scoreboard.”
“I haven’t been able to meet up the qualifications in that annoying list.”
“It is just like the feeling of an emo that needs to have a slash on the wrist to prove he is an emo.”

Ziela Mae just let go of Chito’s arm and moved away.

Ziela Mae
“I am sorry. We don’t have to do this if that is what you want.”

Chito
“No you’re actually right on this one. There is no need to think about it. Can you help me please?”

Ziela Mae agreed and supported Chito back up the mountain. They took a long route back to camp. The sun is setting and it is starting to get dark.

On the way Chito
“You know, the words you just said hurts deep Ziela Mae.”

Ziela Mae
“I am sorry if I ever said anything wrong.”

Chito
“There is nothing wrong with what you just said. You do have a point though. All this time I have been thinking nothing more but become concerned on the name and the title, for the sake of being the gangster leader.”
“I kept on forgetting who I should be. I have been distracted for the absence of my mentor. My ball and chain as Tyrone Barajas would say.”
“Also I really apologize if I have to pick on you. You don’t deserve to be treated badly.”
“Let me make it up to you for all the inconvenience at least.

Ziela Mae
“You don’t need to bother Chito. I am not expecting any reward for doing this.”
Chito
“I have a perfect idea. When we go back to camp, I will make it up to you there.”

Ziela Mae doesn’t understand what Chito wants to do. She didn’t reply anymore after that.

Chito
“The gangster score board huh.”
“I am starting to feel what it was. Maybe it is just a waste of time.”
“I just. I don’t know what to believe or think anymore.”

[coldfire01]

“I am starting to feel what it was. Maybe it is just a waste of time.”
“I just. I don’t know what to believe or think anymore.”

Ziela Mae
“That question would be best answered by probably a fellow gangster or maybe a guy.”
“I cannot give you any decent advice for you have a different world than mine.”

Chito
“Your words don’t sound any promising.”
“You lack the sentences that should give an inspiring advice.”

Ziela Mae
“Like I can give you an advice that would work on you?”
“Gang leaders like you might not even like listening sermons from me. They only follow one rule, I am right no matter what rule.”



Chito
“That is number one. Number 2 is if it happens to be that I am wrong check number 1 again.”
“That rule only works on greedy idiots.”
“I am still capable of hearing opinions and comments you know.”

Ziela Mae
“Yeah somehow I already knew. Probably after seeing you saved the kittens.”
“A guy like you jumping without hesitation to a river, inspite of it being filled with garbage, pursued them just to save the kittens. Such noble acts would only come from a person who has compassion for life.”
“-Respect the kittens for they also have a life that struggles to live- that is what you said right?”

Chito doesn’t know how to react after hearing Ziela Mae.

Chito looked away from Ziela Mae
“Those were the words coming from that person, a girl like you giving me advice from the church.”
“Life whether big or small still serves a purpose as long as they still struggle to live. She is the one who taught me that.”

Ziela Mae
“She must be a good person, that mentor you were talking about.”
“Someday I wish to meet her. She must be a wonderful person to be able to install values upon you.”
“Not unlike me who is….”

Chito asked Ziela Mae not to speak anymore. He feels that Ziela Mae might open some strange topic about her terrible past.

20 minutes passed, Ziela Mae felt tired on carrying part of the weight of Christopher Larcon. Chito noticed it and offered to rest first. Ziela Mae confidently replied that she can still walk but Chito insists.

Chito apologized again for being such a burden for Ziela Mae. Ziela Mae plied that she is not troubled at all.

Ziela Mae
“Will I be able to meet her? What is her name if it is alright with you?”

Chito
“You seem very interested in that girl huh?”

Ziela Mae
“It is alright if you don’t want to answer.”

Chito
“Alright then.”
“Her name is Joana Marlen Lazunde.”

Ziela Mae
“She has a wonderful name. “


Chito
“Yeah that she has. But she is more wonderful than just the name.”

Ziela Mae
“For how long have you been lovers?”

Chito got hit hard like a rock when Ziela Mae said that.

Chito
“You see we never got to be lovers to be exact.”
“She just happens to be guarding me as punishment similar to what you are doing right now.”

Ziela Mae
“I see.”
“I really do apologize if I kept on asking about her.”

Chito
“No not at all. No trouble at all.”

Ziela Mae
“Where is she now? Have I seen her before in the church?”

Chito
“Actually she doesn’t show up on this church. She doesn’t even live anywhere near Balthazar Street. The church I was in is far from here about 1.5 hours to get there. Outskirts of a town not yet developed.”
Ziela Mae
“Oh I see. That explains your knowledge in teaching kids about the church.”

Chito
“No one knew that I was out of town at that time. It was an annoying feat of existing in 2 places at the same time. Another boredom effect if I may so add.”

Ziela Mae
“Somehow I understand a little about it.”

Chito is somewhat surprised on what Ziela Mae just said. However Ziela Mae felt a similar presence when Chito is nearby.

“He is exactly like him, in one way or two. A combination of the two gang leaders I previously knew.”

After a while, Chito noticed Ziela Mae is getting tired. Chito asked Ziela Mae to rest for a while for they have a long way to go. Ziela Mae sees no problem in that and she agreed.
Ziela Mae sat down on a very old bamboo chair. Chito just sat down on what it looks like a stone stove right in front of her. Chito tends on his wounds while there.
Chito noticed the remains of a house foundation not far from where they are sitting. There must be a house previously built here but all they see are now ashes. All remains are what they are on now.

Ziela Mae
“Do you always treat everything as a challenge?”
“There is nothing you cannot gain.”
“There is no such thing as impossible for you.”
“Is that the same when you are messing with people’s minds and hearts?”
Chito
“I somehow feel that way in time to time yes.”

Ziela Mae
“Is there a possibility that you can stop?”

Chito
“What do you mean?”

Ziela Mae
“Is it even possible to stop your habits? Maybe try to convince someone like you to stop manipulating people and just become dedicated to only one person?”
“To convince a gang leader to become serious to one person alone.”

Chito giggled a little thinking about what Ziela Mae just said. Chito thinks that Ziela Mae is talking about him.

Chito confidently replied
“I think it is possible. I truly believe that a girl can make a gangster change.”
“True love conquers all right?”
“If it is a cute girl like you then surely THAT gangster will change, whoever he may be.”

Ziela Mae is not satisfied with Chito’s answer so she did not ask anymore. She doesn’t like the idea that Chito is flirting with him.

Ziela Mae became quiet after a few minutes.
Chito doesn’t like Ziela Mae being awfully quiet. He must have said something wrong so he opened a topic to keep the conversation alive.


Chito
“So how is life with your friends on camp?”

Ziela Mae did not respond

Chito
“I heard a friend of yours came looking for you. I believe her name is Emily I think.”
“Have you met her?”

Ziela Mae still did not respond

Chito
“Oh man! Did I still say something wrong this time?”

Ziela Mae still has no response.

Chito
“You really hated my answer right?”
“That was not the right answer you were looking for right?”

Ziela Mae still quiet


Chito
“You know it’s a shame that you waste your cute face with a frown. A smile would better suit you. Much more if….”

Ziela Mae
“Enough. Don’t say anything more please.”

Chito understands that it must be hard for Ziela Mae doing this. He slowly relieved off his arm from Ziela Mae and walked away to sit on a nearby tree.

Chito
“I think I understand where this is going.”
“And I know perfectly what to do about this.”

Chito
“You are afraid of me am I correct?”
“You are afraid of messing with gang leaders like me am I correct?”

Ziela Mae is a bit surprised on what Chito just said.
Chito saw Ziela Mae’s facial expression after hearing it.

Chito confidently smiled and said
“Let me give you details about this stupid scenario right now.”
“But it is hard to explain it in words. So I will try a different approach.”

Chito with a ferocious look on his face said
“It is pointless to resist. What you do is inevitable for I will destroy you!”
Ziela Mae is shocked to hear those words from Chito.

Chito
“What if I took advantage of you right here and now?”
“Will you be able to fight back against me?”

Chito
“Man you are so beautiful that I can’t resist any more.”
“And don’t worry about it. You can’t do anything even if we go back on Balthazar Street. Because I can just say that I have broken bones and I couldn’t have possibly harassed you right?”

Ziela Mae tears slowly fall from her eyes.

Chito
“You are crying already? We haven’t even started yet.”
“You are so frail and weak. The more I like it.”

Ziela Mae remembered what Redel and his group said.

“The guy has contacts ranking high like a judge in the city. He has a lawyer of his own and his uncle is an administrator. He can probably harass people and get away with it like it was nothing.”

Chito slowly approaches Ziela Mae with ill intent. He reaches his hand toward Ziela Mae making her to walk back.


Chito with an evil smile
“What is wrong little kitty? Don’t be shy. Come here so that we can finally start.”

Ziela Mae just kept quiet on the corner and just guarded herself.

Chito sighed and said
“Man that sure was pathetic of you.”
“Is that how you react if someone assaults you?”
“You cower in fear and hide.”

Ziela Mae looked at Chito and noticed his facial expression went back to normal.

Chito scratches his head while saying
“I expected more from you. Like you could scream or kick me at least.”
“But just hiding like a turtle isn’t going to make you feel better you know.”
“Threats don’t go away by doing that.”

Ziela Mae felt ashamed on what she just did.

Chito
“You are so pathetic. Just because of some dumb past that you let yourself drown in sorrow.”
“You can’t even fight back in spite that I have injuries like these.”
“Even a baby can fight better than you.”

Chito’s words kept on stabbing Ziela Mae’s heart. Slowly he builds up Ziela Mae’s anger.
Ziela Mae angered replied
“It is easy for you to say because you are a guy, not unlike me who is a girl who cannot even fight back.”

Chito
“Yeah I already know that. But with injuries like these, haven’t you noticed that you have the upper hand? You can’t fight you just let yourself be attacked. It is pathetic.”
“I bet you can’t even throw a punch at me. I don’t think you can’t even hurt me with my conditions.”

Ziela Mae
“Don’t push me.”

Chito
“Come on then. Try me weakling.”

Ziela Mae rushed at Chito and punched him on the face. Chito did not dodge and accepted the blow. Chito looked back at Ziela and replied that it was too weak. There wasn’t even power backed on it.
Chito kept on insulting Ziela Mae even more. Ziela Mae kept on punching Chito in the face until he goes down.
Chito goes down on the ground. He wore a smile on his face when afterwards.

Chito slowly stands up and replied
“How does it feel?”

Ziela Mae doesn’t understand what Chito is saying.

Chito
“What are you feeling now after seeing me in the floor?”

Ziela Mae is about to attack some more but Chito pleaded to stop

Chito fixes his jaw and face
“Oh man that hurts big time. I didn’t expect myself a punching bag of a girl.”
“But I think that worked to get your undivided attention.”

Chito added
“How does it feel? Must have felt good right?”
“It feels like all that hatred is exorcised out of you. Much better than cowering in fear I guess.”

Ziela Mae did not realize it at first but Chito is right. It feels like she is a bit relieved.

Chito
“It doesn’t matter how much power or influence a gangster has. As long as you don’t give up fighting then that person will kneel down.”
“If you swing a steel bat smack right on their face, their teeth will fall. Gang leader faces are not made of steel yet. Well not the one I know though.”

Chito smiles
“In Balthazar Street, you will normally meet several monsters with power and influence. But if you showed that you are strong you won’t be their victims. If you show that you fight, you won’t be the subservient of the manipulator.”
“Struggle to fight back just what you just did right now. Do not let people take advantage of you. If they hurt you then fight back. If you can’t fight then learn how to.”
Chito asked if it is alright to continue walking forward again with Ziela Mae. Ziela Mae did not speak but she willingly aided Chito going back to camp.

“I may be wrong. He is not like the 2 gang leaders I knew. Rather he is completely different from the others.”

[coldfire01]

Chapter 10 – Am I right or am I wrong to believe?
Ziela Mae was once a resident on a former town outside the metropolitan area. It is not considered a province or not yet a city. Rather it is a small developing town not far from Avare City.
The roads are not yet paved and the electricity and water plumbing hasn’t fully reached the entire town. A house not far from those areas is where Ziela Mae previously lives.
Ziela Mae Diehtral is always a cheery, kind hearted, easily forgiving girl when she was a resident of that town. Her passion for the church and caring for other people is respected by many people who live there. Ziela Mae is easily forgiving and gives people another chance. She is also the type who doesn’t hold a grudge against them.

Ziela Mae believes
“There is always something good in every person. You can never learn or see that if you cannot learn to give people another chance.”

Those inspiring words came from an unknown gangster who once saved her life. At the night that she was attacked by some brigands who came to rescue her.

“You are a disgrace to the gangster community. Such miserable level of people like you doesn’t deserve to be called a gangster.”

Those are the words that gangster said after he defeated the brigands. During that time, Ziela Mae was too scared to even look back at the gangster.

“Are you alright Miss? Is everything alright?”

The gangster offered his hands. He has a soft tone on his voice. That guy even kneeled in front to see if Ziela Mae is alright. Ziela looked at that gangster’s face. He saw an innocent expression and feels the concern coming from that person who just saved her. That all happened when Ziela Mae is just 10 years old.
Ziela Mae slowly lifts up her right hand toward the gangster. The gangster picked up her hand and pulled Ziela Mae up. He is very pleased that she is perfectly fine.
Minutes later, several friends of that guy arrived to see if their leader needs any assistance. The gangster replied that it is no longer necessary.
That guy who saved Ziela Mae seems to be the leader of their group. The way his subordinates acts is just amazing. They are not like the others who are uneducated guys who smoke, drinks or pick fights on the weak. Instead they are a group who are clean, intellectual, polite and also poised. Their group looks so powerful and at the same time they have the sensibility of a responsible citizen.
The gangster leader asked Ziela Mae if he can walk her home to make sure her safety. Ziela Mae doesn’t mind and the entire frat walked with him as well.
On the way home, Ziela Mae listened to them talk. The gangsters talk about their jobs and success in life ranging from head of businesses to the high positions on prestigious companies. They also talk about what different stories about their families and friends. Stories before they became a group. Also stories ranging on what their life would be if they never get to meet with each other.
The group misses the past where there was danger and excitement. But at the same time they also feel the responsibilities and perks of living with their own families. Their lives could have been different if it weren’t for the founder who started it all.

For Ziela Mae, these guys can never be a gangster. No one would believe if she tells it to anyone that such group of guys ever existed.
But unfortunately those guys have to leave. They were just paying a visit to a friend they said. They just made sure Ziela Mae is safe near her home. The gangster leader just said goodbye without even telling his name.

3 years passed. Ziela Mae is near her 13th birthday.
Ziela Mae can’t remember very well the face of that gangster guy who once saved her life. She just wished to meet a guy similar to the one who saved her 3 years ago.
She finally got her wish. She is currently dating a gangster leader named Jayson Nifrado. The founder of a popular gang called Quese Lothars or QLS in their town.

One day, Ziela Mae introduced Jayson Nifrado to the sacristans in the church. Jayson greets everyone with a warm smile and shows eagerness to be like Ziela Mae as an assistant like the sacristans.
Ziela Mae never forced Jayson Nifrado to help at the church. Jayson came on his own will so that he can see and feel what Ziela Mae does.
For Ziela Mae, having a boyfriend like Jayson Nifrado is like a wish came true. Ziela Mae feels like Jayson is a living proof that anyone can change. Like black changed to white again. It is all because Ziela Mae trusts each person and believed that giving them a second chance is what they really need.
Jayson enjoys learning and teaching the kids about what is right and wrong. He also showed the importance and values of life to everyone. The way Jayson smile is also positive factor for Ziela Mae. This guy is warm and caring just like the gangster who previously saved her.
Jayson previous pasts, one of them, describe him as a drinker. He drinks a lot treating it as a challenge against his opponents on the table. Ziela Mae managed to convince his boyfriend to quit all that bad habits for her sake.

One thing probably Jayson is attracted to Ziela Mae is her patience. She strongly believes and trusts everyone that no one is born evil and they can also change for the better. Because of that, Ziela Mae easily forgives Jayson for being late on appointments or skipping church seminars in the past.
As a token of gratitude for Ziela Mae’s patience, Jayson takes her out on the most romantic places in town. Ziela Mae asked not to bring her to such expensive restaurants but Jayson insists as appreciation of her loyalty.

Jayson Nifrado has a sister named Emily Nifrado. She really respects his brother to be the one of the nicest guy in town. Jayson is also respected by many people wherever he go. There is always a warm greeting coming from everyone young or old. Spotless record to the streets, he is the respected gangster founder of Quese Lothars.
It was not long that Ziela Mae was introduced to the Nifrado family. Emily greeted Ziela Mae and started to become best friends.
One thing that you can find Jayson unique from other gangsters is the expression on his face. He can easily create a mood of an innocent guy with an innocent smile. A smile that is warm and friendly, one that nullifies any doubts whatsoever. He also has a talent that is rare to be seen in many people, the talent of mimicking other people’s voices. It is rumored that he can mimic 80 different radio and TV announcer voices.
He can also speak with clarity on those voices as well.
With that talent and his looks it was no doubt that he became a popular songwriter on his town. He creates such wonderful melodies as he strums the guitar. He is also incredible at writing rhymes as he combines his clarity of voice to create a beautiful and heartwarming love song.
Ziela Mae Diehtral is proud to see that Jayson has the same interest in songwriting similar to hers. Many of the girls, who live there, grow jealous of Ziela Mae. It seems Jayson’s eyes and attention is focused only to Ziela Mae.

Jeff Diehtral, Ziela Mae’s cousin, became a big fan of Jayson as well. He dreams to become as good as Jayson but he feels bad for he lacks the talent to do everything Jayson does.

Jayson heard that and said
“Don’t say that Jeff. I too, was not very good at singing when I started.”

Jeff Diehtral
“I know. But how about your talent of speaking in different voices, will I be able to do that as well?”

Jayson Nifrado
“I don’t believe that my talent of voices can be gained through hard work. It is actually a rare talent only selected few are blessed with.”
“But don’t let that fact affect you. We all have different unique talents that I know. I may be good at voices but you may be good at something else. Like creating different catchy beats or become better at guitars. You can use that instead to your advantage and create your own song that fits your style and abilities.”
“Neither will alone, nor talent alone, nor skill alone can give you a winning song.”
“Songwriting also requires a passionate heart that has the ability of gaining the greater audience.”
“A heart that cares like no other.”

Archie also added that they know a celebrity who has talents like Jayson have but his song doesn’t sell very much. Just because he has the talent of the greatest tongues doesn’t mean your song will be the best as well. The celebrity has a rotten personality that he needs to fix for him to gain better audience. He needs to respect people more. But he rather wants to insult those who try being like him and mocks those who don’t have talent treating them like trash.
Jayson also said not to pay attention to Archie. He has that kind of trait to see people’s faults in an exaggerated and vulgar manner.
Jayson just reminded that all Jeff needs is just a heart that cares can create a wonderful song like no other.
When Jayson spoke those inspiring words, it fueled Jeff’s determination to continue. Ziela Mae is very proud of Jayson even more when she heard that.

Jeff Diehtral
“This guy is incredible. He doesn’t let people down instead he boosts their morale. He really fits to be a gangster leader just like Ziela Mae said.”
“He is a leader material, a true gang leader indeed.”

One day Jayson walked towards the local arcades to play games. Bryan one of his friends approached him.

Bryan
“Yo Jackson, wassup. How is the little drama acting going on?”

Jayson
“Shut your trap Bryan. Don’t you ever say that to me in public ever again?”

Bryan
“Woah I understand Jayson. I am just concerned on what is going on with you lately that is all.”

Jayson Nifrado
“I understand. So what is the news on those morons?”

Bryan
“They grew impatient as usual.”

Jayson Nifrado
“Tell them I will pay my debts as soon as I get my money.”

Bryan
“That is not it you know. What they mean is your capability of pulling this off.”
“They are afraid that you might turn soft and don’t do it after all.”

Jayson just punched Archie on the stomach. Bryan kneeled down in pain.

Jeff was about to approach Jayson to ask some guitar tabs. But he hid himself behind the wall instead.

Jayson Nifrado
“If only I have the influence of the police or higher then I can truly acknowledge myself unstoppable.”
“A teenager in control of the street comparable to the big boss syndicates.”
“And I could have crushed those idiots on a single whim for looking down on me.”

Bryan
“You already have that high influence Jayson. I mean with your skill as a smooth talker you got everything banked.”
Jayson Nifrado
“I don’t want to be stuck on where I am right now. I want to progress further to the next level.”
“If there is an opportunity, I will grasp it without hesitation.”

Moments later, they noticed Jeff’s shirt and he is listening to their conversation. Bryan did not continue the conversation and was instructed by Jayson to go away.

Jayson greeted Jeff with a warm welcoming smile to ask how his school is. Jeff replied with a weird smile saying everything is fine.
Jeff wonders about what Jayson said earlier. About him seeking influence higher than his own.
Jayson noticed Jeff is thinking hard about what he just said. Jayson asked if Jeff is hungry. He will be treating Jeff to the nearest hamburger stand to eat. Jeff doesn’t mind and they ordered a meal.
While there, Jayson talked his way to Jeff with a convincing lie. Jayson said that he needed power to fuel his ambitions. He explained that the greater his popularity soars, the more his enemies increase. They are only jealous of him he said. Something that Jeff shouldn’t be concerned of. It is the burdens that gang leaders come across from time to time.
Jeff doesn’t understand it much but the way Jayson speaks about it seems to be the truth. He never asked about it anymore after that.

Weeks passed. Ziela Mae Diehtral doesn’t need to watch over Jayson Nifrado. Jayson Nifrado is always polite and helpful to the elderly even when Ziela Mae is not around. He greatly respects everyone big or small. He is also a caring and responsible brother on his family.

One day, Jayson Nifrado’s birthday arrived. He called Ziela Mae to invite her to participate. Jayson Nifrado said that he wants to celebrate his birthday at the afternoon before the drinking sessions going to happen at night. Ziela Mae was instructed to come alone to Jayson’s house at that time.


Ziela Mae visited Jayson’s house as he requested. Jayson’s house is far from his neighbors. It is just trees and the nearest neighbor would be around 200 meters away. Jayson Nifrado said that the place is scary at night because there aren’t much light posts or houses to light the way, the more the reason why Jayson wants to celebrate his birthday at an earlier time.

Ziela Mae felt that the invitation is a bit suspicious. Ziela Mae wanted to bring Jeff along but he is currently on a date with someone. Jayson said not to worry for his sister Emily is with him as well.

“Jayson wouldn’t do something reckless that I am sure. It is his birthday so I am sure that he won’t do anything else. I have complete trust in him. He is changed and he is no longer the guy who he used to be.”

Ziela Mae knocked on the door. Jayson opened it and he welcomed Ziela Mae.
He invites Ziela Mae to sit down.

Jayson Nifrado sat on a different chair and said
”I apologize but my parents are out on the market to buy some food. Also my sister, Emily is inviting her friends to come over tonight.”

Ziela Mae felt a bit scared knowing she is the only girl on a guy’s house.

Jayson Nifrado
“Are you afraid?”

Ziela Mae Diehtral
“No I am not. It is just that I am a bit tensed. You see, this is the first time I visited the house of a guy.”

Jayson Nifrado smiled
“You don’t have to be afraid you know. A house is just a house, made of wood and stone.”
“Like there is something special on a house of a guy or a girl?”
“Or you are afraid that I am going to harm you is that it?”

Ziela Mae Diehtral
“Oh no that’s not it.”
“It is just that… it’s just that our situation right now is.”

Jayson Nifrado
“The situation is quite tempting right?”

Ziela Mae is startled to hear those phrases.

Jayson Nifrado didn’t like it and seem upset, he said
“Frankly I am sad. Because you thought that I would do that to you.”
“That only means you don’t trust me at all.”

Ziela Mae Diehtral
“Don’t say that. Please understand where I am coming from.”

Jayson Nifrado became serious and said
“That is alright.”
“I will be warming the engine of my car. I will drive you home.”

[coldfire01]

Ziela Mae wants to speak but she can’t think of any words to say.
Jayson Nifrado came back from the kitchen and showed Ziela Mae a cake.

Jayson Nifrado
“I just want to show you this cake that I baked. This is the first cake that I ever designed on my own.”
“The Quese guys would laugh at me for having such a sissy hobby. So I want you to be the only one to see it. That is why I only wanted you to be here.”

Jayson Nifrado returned the cake back at the kitchen.
He later placed it back on the oven and walked straight to the garage. There he opened the car door and invites Ziela Mae for a ride home.
Ziela Mae hopped in the car. Feeling troubled, she doesn’t know what to say to Jayson Nifrado so that he feels bad about her reaction.

While on the road, driving, Ziela Mae
“I am really sorry if I ever doubted you.”

Jayson Nifrado
“You don’t have to apologize. I was the one at fault for not enclosing the reason of your visit.”
“I am the one at fault here not you.”

Ziela Mae
“Still I feel bad for misjudging you.”




Jayson Nifrado smiled
“That is perfectly fine you know. At least I know that my Ziela Mae is a strong woman who will not give in to easily.”
“That alone makes me very happy.”
“You are good at protecting yourself. It means that you know how to protect your pride. There aren’t many women who think like you.”

Ziela Mae
“Thank you for understanding. I am truly relieved to see you don’t feel bad anymore.”
“Still if there is anything I can do to…”

Jayson Nifrado
“As I said, do not think about it.”

Jayson can’t help but feel happy inside. Not because he is proud of Ziela Mae but he is happy to see everything he anticipates Ziela would do is exactly as she would do.

Hours passed and the party started at 6am. Jayson Nifrado’s birthday party is celebrated at the back yard of his home. Beer is flooding everywhere and karaoke is sung though the singers are pathetic.
The entire Quese Lothar’s cheering for the birthday boy to sing. When Jayson Nifrado is about to sing, everyone kept quiet.
Jayson Nifrado picked a slow love song. He used the beat of that song to mix it with his own lyrics. Somehow, the words match the beat as he sings. It is incredible that he can mix two different songs using the karaoke.
The song itself is a wonderful piece that Jayson Nifrado composed. A wonderful song about a girl she loves so much for her patience. That girl believes and truly trusts him completely and he is grateful for that girl.

Minutes later Ziela Mae happened to show up. She happens to be listening to the entire song that Jayson Nifrado just made.
Ziela Mae eyes are moist that tears that might flow any moment. She is speechless and very grateful for the song that was written for her.
Ziela Mae ran away from home just to see Jayson’s birthday party. Sadly, she wasn’t allowed by her parents to go out at night. But she still visited Jayson even without their permission.
Archie wore that wicked smile towards Jayson. Jayson did not speak a word back at Archie. But Jayson’s face has an expression saying “I was right on the pot!”
Jayson Nifrado asked Ziela Mae to sing afterwards. Ziela Mae insisted not to but Jayson insists. He even kneeled down on his knees begging for Ziela Mae to sing. The Quese Lothars also cheered and chants Ziela Mae to sing as well.
Ziela Mae can’t help but sing in front. She also picked a slow love song and overlapped it with her own original composition. The song theme is called –Appreciation-. It is a touching song about showing gratitude for the concerns for giving the strength to continue. The lyrics also describe something about longing for a certain someone in the past and the wish granted.

“Ambitions are rewarded if you hold on to it tightly. If you believe that it will exist then it will come true. As long as you believe, the possibility is endless.”

Those were just some of the words that she used. Those words also inspired her to write when he met the first gang leader that saved her from the brigands. Ziela Mae told that story only to Jayson Nifrado.
Applause rained after Ziela Mae finished the song. Some Quese Lothars says that Jayson and Ziela Mae are really meant for each other. They are a couple who are pretty much alike even in terms of songwriting.

Ziela Mae is also inspired writing that song after hearing these words from Jayson Nifrado.

“Neither will alone, nor talent alone, nor skill alone can give you a winning song.”
“Songwriting requires a passionate heart that has the ability of gaining the greater audience.”
“A heart that cares like no other.”
She worked hard day and night perfecting the lyrics until it is finished.

Jayson Nifrado lost the words to express how much he is proud of Ziela Mae. He just clapped his hands once more showing appreciation. Soon later, the Quese Lothars also clapped along with him as well.

After that they sing a duet love song. As soon as they finished, they let go the microphone to let other people sing.
Jayson Nifrado later invited Ziela Mae to eat. There they ate the cake that Jayson Nifrado baked. Archie asked Emily Nifrado if she is the one who baked the cake. Emily said that she wasn’t even aware that there is an extra cake. Jayson just winked at Ziela Mae not to speak a word about it.
Emily Nifrado also asked Ziela Mae to eat with her. But her brother Jayson reminds him that she needs to go to school early. She mustn’t stay up long for there is a busy day ahead.
Emily wants to stay but seeing the beer is being prepared on the table, she decided to follow the instructions of his brother instead. Emily asked Ziela Mae to move away from the Quese Lothars to a different table to eat someplace else.
There the two best friends spent hours telling stories talking about funny moments in the classroom.
Emily left afterwards since her time is up. Jayson Nifrado asked Ziela Mae to just watch and never be intimidated, by any means, to anyone inviting her to drink. Jayson strictly forbids Ziela Mae to drink even though it is his birthday. Ziela Mae agreed and will just watch Jayson drinking instead.
The Quese Lothars started the drinking session as soon as Emily left. The group started giving turns on the one to drink beer. The group became noisier as time passes by. An hour passed and the group began telling humiliating moments of their lives. 2 to 3 hours they started insulting each other with the things they do.
Ziela Mae can’t help but laugh seeing the Quese Lothars insulting each other. They started changing their personalities when they became drunk. She started hearing secrets that wasn’t suppose to come out from them.
But one thing Ziela Mae wonders is why Jayson Nifrado is already sleeping on the table. It seems he is already unconscious after drinking a few bottles. Usually he can hold his liquor and become the last man standing. Maybe because he had a busy day causing him to easily get tired to continue.

Moments later, Archie asked Ziela Mae to join them. Ziela Mae politely declined and said that she doesn’t drink. Archie asked again and started to be annoying. He kept on begging Ziela Mae to just drink just one glass for his boyfriend.
Archie said that just one glass will never affect anyone. He even explained that it took a lot of bottles just to make themselves retards. One glass will not affect Ziela Mae’s judgment like they are now.
Ziela Mae kept on saying no but Archie is still bugging him. One more word from Archie and she decided to leave.
Ziela Mae strongly held her ground not drink the beer from that glass. As Ziela Mae walks away, the Quese Lothars cheered Ziela Mae for being strong who doesn’t drink alcohol.

Ziela Mae decided to leave early but Archie kept asking him to stay. Ziela Mae still politely asked Archie to not ask requests from her. Archie understands and didn’t nag anymore. But Archie asks Ziela Mae at least wake Jayson up so that he can easily rest on his room and not on the table. It is very uncomfortable to sleep without a bed and also no one in the Quese Lothars would dare wake him up for he will hit anyone when he is disturbed.
Another Quese Lothars named Jasper says that only Ziela Mae can wake Jayson up. He wouldn’t hurt the girl he loves wouldn’t he?
Ziela Mae doesn’t mind to follow just this one request. As long as it is not involving any liquor then she is satisfied.
She tried waking up Jayson so that he can rest on his house. But no luck, Jayson is still fast asleep.
Ziela Mae kept on waking Jayson but still no use. Moments later while she is shaking Jayson, someone disabled her arms and placed a handkerchief on her mouth.
Ziela Mae tried desperately to get free. The more she struggles, the more she needed to breathe. She accidentally inhaled the drug that is on the handkerchief.
Slowly the effects are starting to get to her. Her vision is starting to blur. Ziela Mae noticed her knees are starting to lose strength as well. Ziela Mae tried opening her eyes but they started to become heavy.

At that time, she remembers the news on TV. About a girl who was raped by a gang after drinking. A drug mixed on the liquor to immobilize the girl so that they can do what they want.
It was probably an old article on the news probably years ago. She never expected the Quese Lothars would be capable of doing something this dirty.
Ziela Mae still tried very hard to stay focus. But she still losing strength and eventually fallen asleep. But before she closed her eyes, she looked at Jayson Nifrado still lying on the table.

“The poor guy Jayson Nifrado probably got drugged as well. He is a champ at drinking sessions but he was betrayed by his friends.”
“I should have been suspicious when he was already sleeping.”
“I was careless. I just hope someone will come to rescue us both.”

Ziela Mae woke up on someone else’s room. For a moment there she is worried that there is something wrong. It must have been a bad dream.
But she later noticed that her sensitive part of her lower body is bleeding. Much more that it is swelling in pain.
Emily Nifrado later arrived on that room. She saw the concerned look on Ziela’s face. She asked if there is something wrong.
Ziela Mae replied that there is nothing to be concerned of. However she explained that she is in her period and needs to get away from the bed sheets.
Ziela Mae managed to leave before the blood rushed to the bed. Miraculously her jeans managed to stop some of it from leaking.
Emily panicked but felt relieved for the bed sheets are safe.

Ziela Mae asked why she is sleeping on her bed. Emily said that she doesn’t know herself why. She is as surprised as Ziela is. Emily just woke up after discovering Ziela Mae is asleep on one of the vacant rooms on her house.
Being concerned about Ziela Mae, Emily invites her to take a bath. She will be preparing everything that Ziela Mae would need such as new set of clothes and also a sanitary napkin.
Ziela Mae accepts Emily’s offer and took a bath.
While in the shower Ziela Mae can’t stop her tears pouring along the water. She knows for herself that she is raped by the Quese Lothars. She doesn’t even know where to begin. How can she tell her friend Emily about what happened last night?

An hour later came rushing Ziela Mae’s parents. They kept on searching everywhere for Ziela Mae for not on her room last night. Emily took responsibility and said that she convinced Ziela Mae to visit her brother’s birthday. She also explained that Ziela Mae is safe and spent the night with her.
Ziela Mae nods her head with uncertainty. Her dad said to not to do something like that ever again. Ziela Mae replied with a soft tone saying yes.
Mrs. Diehtral, Ziela Mae’s mom, noticed the change on her daughter. Not just on how she walks but also the way she talks. She feels that her daughter is hiding something.

When Ziela Mae is alone, her Mother tried asking her if there is something wrong. Ziela Mae kept changing the issue and explained that there is nothing wrong. Mrs. Diehtral tried asking again but Ziela Mae got mad and just locked the door on her room.

Months passed, Ziela Mae is noticing that there are major changes happening on her body. She started throwing up regularly and her belly started to grow. She also started to be picky at the food she eats.

It was not long that it was visible that Ziela Mae is pregnant. Mrs. Diehtral saw it as a shock to see her daughter like that.
She was scolded by his father several times. Ziela Mae doesn’t know what to say. Her father demanded an explanation but she just locked herself in her room.

One day, Mrs. Diehtral picked the perfect time to approach Ziela Mae on her room alone.

Mrs. Diehtral
“Ziela dear. It’s your mom.”
“Don’t worry I won’t be upset. I just want to talk please.”

Ziela Mae with an unsure tone replied
“I don’t know have anything to say mom. Please go away.”
Mrs. Diehtral
“Believe it or not, you can trust me. I am only here to help, that I can assure you.”

Ziela Mae opens the door and lets her mom in. Mrs. Diehtral locked the door so that her husband won’t come in.

Ziela Mae
“Tell me mom, what did I do to deserve this?”

Mrs. Diehtral
“You are a good child Ziela. You never did anything wrong.”

Ziela Mae
“Still why does this happen? It is like I am being punished.”
“I am scared mom… I don’t know what to do…”
“I…”

Ziela Mae’s tears started flowing from her eyes. She can’t speak a word to her mother about it.

Mrs. Diehtral hugged Ziela Mae’s and said
“There now I understand. That is alright child. You don’t have to say a word.”

Ziela Mae slowly felt at ease after talking to her mom. Not long that she is able to tell everything what happened at that night. About the way that Jayson Nifrado and she was deceived by the Quese Lothars.

Ziela Mae got pregnant to an unknown guy. She claimed to be raped by the Quese Lothars just after celebrating Jayson Nifrado’s birthday.

Unfortunately, not long the word reaches everyone on the town. Rumors spread that Ziela Mae was drugged and the fingers point the possible mastermind who is Jayson Nifrado.
Ziela Mae is the talk of the residents on her district. However she is not believed to be raped because no one would believe Jayson Nifrado would be capable of doing it. She is really raped by the Quese Lothars but the details are mixed up with the truth. Ziela Mae wants to explain that she is not blaming Jayson but no one even wants to listen. Everyone thinks that she is lying to stain Jayson Nifrado’s image.

Ziela Mae kept wanted to tell everyone about the truth, but she eventually lost the energy to continue. No one doesn’t want to side with her. The only one who is willing to listen is her best friend Emily Nifrado.
Ziela Mae explained that Jayson is also drugged at that night. Emily understands and she completely supports Ziela Mae on bringing the Quese Lothars to justice.

[coldfire01]

However Ziela Mae feels that it is probably the most miserable moments of her life. She is carrying the seed of a man of which she doesn’t know whom it is. To her the baby inside her is like a parasite clinging on her body to survive.

“Can I learn to love this child?” she asks

Months passed. Ziela Mae’s aunts and uncles propose of aborting the child. Ziela’s mom is against the idea of aborting because it is against their religion to kill a life.
Ziela Mae’s parents plans on waiting for the child to be born. Then at that time perform a DNA test to the entire Quest Lothars to prove what they did to their daughter.

Months passed, the child is born. It is a healthy young boy. The first child Ziela Mae born from her womb is now sleeping comfortably beside her.

Ziela Mae feels very happy to see the child but yet sad for he wasn’t created out of love.
It was a tender moment of her life to see her very first child is born.
Weeks and months passed that Ziela Mae learned to love the child. She is happy to see that her child is growing properly.
But her happiness didn’t last long when Ziela Mae received a hand written letter from Jayson Nifrado. The message says that he asks to meet up with her outside. The letter says that he wants to say something very important.

Ziela Mae thinks it over if he wants to speak with Jayson Nifrado. Jayson Nifrado called several times to apologize on the phone and really insists to speak with her alone.

“There is always something good in every person. You can never learn or see that if you cannot learn to give people another chance.”

Those words kept on rotating on Ziela Mae’s head lately. She is wondering if she is wrong to trust and believe gangsters.
Maybe he wasn’t aware that his friends did this. Ziela Mae saw Jayson Nifrado already sleeping on the table pretty much drunk. He can’t even stand up anymore. Maybe he feels bad and wants to make it up for the one responsible for this.
Ziela Mae still believes Jayson Nifrado. He will never do something this despicable. Jayson have high respects to everyone and will never do something like that.
But possible images from that night kept on tormenting her. Just the thought that the Quese Lothars are switching with each other to rape her is excruciating. Ziela Mae can barely move or run. All she can do is just cry on that night. That drink must have some strong medicine on it that disables her nerves or something. Her vision is also blurry and can’t even recognize the guys who are doing it with her.

Right now Ziela Mae is all alone at her home. Her dad is busy working while her mom is busy filing charges and talking to the lawyer.
Jayson Nifrado knocks on the door asking politely if Ziela Mae is there. Is this coincidence or probably Jayson knows that Ziela Mae is all alone and have guts on visiting her.

Ziela Mae is a bit scared if she should answer or not. She still feels the terror of that night.

Ziela Mae still hear Jayson’s voice saying
“Hello is anyone home? May speak with Ziela Mae please?”

Ziela Mae
“Just go away please. I don’t want to see you or your group anymore.”

Jayson Nifrado
“Is that you Ziela Mae? I am glad you are there.”
“Listen Ziela Mae, whatever happens I will make sure that the ones responsible for this will pay for their heinous acts. That I can promise you.”
“Please be safe. If you don’t want to talk then that is fine with me. I just want to tell you something before we go to the trial court.”

Ziela Mae
“Please go away!”

Jayson Nifrado sighed and just leaned back on the door.
“I understand. I know what you are going through right now. I never knew that my so called buddies will do such a thing.”
“But I still care for you. Believe it or not I really do.”

Ziela Mae did not speak a word



Jayson Nifrado
“I thought this might be the first of the last days that we might never get to talk anymore. That is why I visited you today. Next time we will be meeting will be, unfortunately, with lawyers in front of a judge and jury.”
“Take care of yourself Ziela Mae. I will be off now.”

Ziela Mae
“Wait.”

Ziela Mae opened the door to see Jayson. The chain lock on the door is still in place so it is partially opened just enough to see Jayson’s face.
Jayson is very relieved to see Ziela Mae still trusts him even just a little.

Ziela Mae
“What is it that you want to talk about?”

Jayson wearing that innocent smile
“Oh it is nothing of importance. It is just something about telling you.”
“How stupid you are right now.”

Ziela Mae is surprised to hear that from Jayson Nifrado, much more that his facial expression doesn’t change when he said that.

Jayson still wearing an innocent smile
“You are so easy. There wasn’t even a thrill of winning a girl like you.”
“It was really easy. Too easy.”

Ziela Mae is starting to shiver again. This guy is unbelievable. He can throw words like that and he feels nothing from it.
Ziela Mae closes the door but Jayson’s foot stops it.

Jayson wearing an evil grin says
“Oh yeah. I forgot to tell you. I came here to say that whatever you do right now will be pointless. Even if you provide the money for a DNA test on my entire gang it will just go in vain. The test will not lead to us, that I can really assure you.”

Jayson added
“You are just wasting a lot of money on a wild goose chase.

Jayson left afterwards.

Minutes later, the phone rings. It is Emily her friend who is on the other line.

Emily noticed that Ziela Mae’s voice is really sad. She asked what is going on.
Ziela Mae explained that even if she told Emily what happened, she will never believe it.
Emily replied that whatever it is, she is sure to accept it. Whoever hurts Ziela Mae, she is willing to help to fight them whoever they may be.
Ziela Mae explained everything on the phone, about what happened to his brother and also what just happened when he paid a visit.

Emily Nifrado became upset and said
“My brother will never do such a thing. Don’t make up some stupid stories against him!”
“If this is about you being pregnant then blame it to the one who did to you and not to my brother!”

Ziela Mae
“Believe me it is the truth.”
“What do you want me to do for you to believe me?”

Emily Nifrado about to cry
“Not one more word please.”
“It’s a shame really. You were really quiet, too quiet. You were so shy and pure. To me you are so pure that you are nicknamed Virgin Mary.”
“It never occurs in my head that you will become like this. You were the last person I can assume to be like this.”
“You’ve changed. You are no longer the ideal girl I used to look up.”

Months passed. The results for the DNA test arrived. They are at the trial court waiting for the process to complete.
After checking the DNA signature of the child and also the entire 24 members of the Quese Lothars, they found the DNA map doesn’t match any of the entire Quese Lothars including Jayson Nifrado the founder and also Archie Duvantes.

It was an incredible shock for Ziela Mae, to think that the DNA test did not lead it them who the child’s father would be. She lost the only link against the entire Quese Lothars. They also have convincing alibi on where they went afterwards, including their own set of witnesses.
Some of the Quese Lothars have their managers to oath that their employee spent the night at the office. Some have testament saying that their comrade is with them through the entire time the crime was processed.
Almost all of them have their solid alibis. And the DNA test completes it. There is no other way to pin the charges against the Quese Lothars now.

The case is closed. The verdict is not guilty.

Ziela Mae slowly walks outside the justice hall feeling unsatisfied with the result.
Before Ziela Mae leaves, Jayson Nifrado approached Ziela Mae.
Jayson’s Lawyer asked not to approach Ziela Mae but he still continued.


Jayson Nifrado
“I apologize if things didn’t turn out positively. I also wished for the true criminal to see justice in these halls but unfortunately we failed to see it today.”
“Words cannot express how I am deeply outraged with the decision.”
“But I am willing to fix everything. I want to make up for their sins and whatever they might have caused you wrong.”
“If it is alright to you that you can accept me as the legal father of your child? I want to take care of that child with you if it is ok with you.”

Ziela Mae became upset on what Jayson just said. He pretends to be the saint after orchestrating such horrible acts. He shows himself as the one who is pure that offers assistance even though he is the mastermind of it all.

Jayson did not ask anymore and just left without saying a word. He knows that he is no longer needed. While leaving, he can’t help but feel satisfied for what he just did. He hopped in the car to visit the hangout before going home.
When he arrived at the hangout, Jeff Diehtral is waiting for him.

Jayson stepped out of the car and asked the driver and his lawyer to go home without him.
Jayson slowly approached Jeff. He went passed Jeff.

Jayson Nifrado
“May I ask what the nature of your visit for today?”
“Don’t tell me you plan to be hostile here on our territory?”

Jeff Diehtral
“I don’t have any business with the Quese Lothars, just the corruption that planted root in this group. And that corruption rooted only to you.”

Jayson Nifrado
“Such sharp words. And where is your proof that I am the one who is corrupt?”

Jeff Diehtral
“I heard it from your friends when they are talking out loud outside the bar. You sold my sister to some unknown group just to gain money and higher influence.”
“You used her for your own benefit!”

Jayson Nifrado
“Please don’t say such distasteful words. Me use people for my own profit?”
“What utter farce is this?”
“You speak in nothings. The thought that your source is reliable is as dependable as pigs soon to fly.”
“They are drunk. They are not completely aware what they speak and act. They have the tendency to come up with stupid stories such as you and me in that state.”
“How do you support their words in front of many people? Would they find your new found evidence fruitful? I really doubt that.”

Jayson Nifrado added
“Because the words lack as a substantial evidence to support your theories”

Jeff Diehtral lost the strength to continue. Jayson Nifrado is right. After hearing everything Jayson said, Jeff felt a tremendous depression from those words.
Just imagine that this guy doesn’t have police contacts or the influence ranging up to the city hall. This guy can already manipulate the events and evidence like playing a chess game. Jayson is totally works clean. There are no crumbs to follow. There are no traces to lead it to him.

Jayson Nifrado
“What are you waiting for? I would rather not ask you to leave for you can do that on your own.”
“But if you don’t have plans on moving on where you stand then I will make necessary actions such as trespassing on private property.”

Jeff feels so weak. There is really nothing left to bring this guy down. This guy is an unstoppable liar. It really sucks that this guy wears a fa?ade, a mask of an innocent smile and an honest citizen. No one will be suspicious of him. Because he never done anything wrong. No one will ever be, not his sister, not his parents, not the people at their village.

Jeff Diehtral
“Tell me. I do not need anything more after this. Aside for power and influence, what tempted you to do that to my sister?”

Jayson Nifrado sighed and replied
“If I tell you will you finally leave for good?”

Jeff agreed.






Jayson Nifrado
“Very well then.”
“The reason is because one of the most powerful gang in this village has a crush on your cousin Ziela Mae.”
“It is not like a crush that you want to love her and want to be her girlfriend.”
“Just a crush that he wants to love her in bed.”

Jeff is disgusted to hear that.

Jayson Nifrado
“That powerful gang is a buddy of mine so I accepted his request. It was not just for the money that I became a bridge for the 2. It is also for the exchange of the higher authority and for the better position if I may so add. Granting me more access and control than I ever had before.”
“You see, my client is actually far too old for Ziela Mae to accept him.”
“That is why I need to put extra effort on it such as pretending to join the church even though it sickens me a lot.”

Jeff Diehtral has never been insulted this much. In his entire life, never have he heard such a story this despicable and also unforgivable.

Jayson Nifrado saw the enraged eyes coming from Jeff.

Jayson Nifrado
“I expected that saying the truth will not leave you on where you stand.”
“It is sad really that we have to resort to violent measures instead.”

Jeff Diehtral rushed towards Jayson NIfrado.

Meanwhile, just after Jayson left,

Ziela’s Mom said
“Don’t cry Ziela Mae. I know it must be bitter for you but be strong. We cannot change the past but we can always look forward for the future.”

Ziela Mae’s Dad
“Your mom and I have decided to move out of this town. It would be best for you to have a fresh start on life, so that you can be able to go to a high school where they can look at you normally. No one will ever know what you have been through.”

Ziela’s Mom
“In fact dear that your Dad already bought a house we are going to move in. It was a house previously owned by a friend. It is in a quiet town called Avare City.”
“When we live there, no one will know about you. No one will feel insecure towards you anymore for you will be on a completely different environment. We will never disclose any information to anyone on the new town just for your protection.”

Ziela Mae felt a little better when her mom provided her an alternative solution.

Going back to where Jeff is, Jeff is humiliated totally by the Quese Lothars. Jeff experienced tremendous beating from them.
Jeff is tied up on a tree all naked with bruises on his face. People walking by, can’t help but feel pity for him. They want to free him but they are too afraid to even approach Jeff. They don’t want any trouble coming from the group who did this.
It didn’t take long that the word arrived to Ziela Mae’s parents. They rushed to see Jeff and quickly rushed him to the hospital.

Ziela Mae heart is being crushed one blow after the other. She is upset that Jayson is capable of doing this.
It was the last straw for the Diehtrals as well. Jeff’s dad and several Diehtrals decided to fight against the Quese Lothars.
But Ziela Mae asked them not to continue.

[coldfire01]

Ziela Mae
“Please don’t do anything that will harm us all.”
“I truly believe that their punishment is not yet due. God always has a purpose for this. I know that these men will see the fruit of their deeds one day.”
“Do not strike violence against violence. It will only bring more violence to come.”

With just those words, the Diehtrals no longer wishes to fight. Ziela Mae smiled and said that she is happy that she will be moving to another town where she can finally start a new life. That alone makes her so happy.

Going back on the normal time, on Balthazar Street, a storm is brewing.
Chito’s sister, Jenny, quickly rushed outside to get the laundry off the clotheslines.

Jenny looks up at the clouds

Jenny Larcon
“Rain is going to pour hard today. I just hope my brother won’t have a hard time up there on the mountain.”

Going back at the mountain, Ziela Mae assists Christopher Larcon back at the camp.
Upon their arrival, the sacristans are surprised to see Chito all covered in blood and also being assisted by Ziela Mae. They quickly took over and carried Chito where he can rest and tend to his wounds inside the tent.

Some of Ziela Mae’s friends asked what happened.
Just when Ziela Mae is about to speak Chito said
“It was because of me. I tried to attack Ziela Mae that is what happened.”

Everyone was surprised to hear that coming from Chito. At the same time, rain poured heavily outside the tent.

Chito
“She was actually taking a pee at that time. I was just trying to make some wicked acrobatic moves from above a tree to get a better view. But I fell miserably on a cliff when that happened. She came to rescue me so that I can live.”

Come to think about it. Ziela Mae remembers that Chito is falling from a tree. It is unclear for her the reason why Chito is up there in the first place anyway.

When Diana asked Ziela Mae if it is true, Ziela can’t make up a solid answer if it is a yes or no. She just nodded her head saying some of the words Chito said are true.

Enrico just attacked head on without thinking and slammed Chito on the tree. Enrico is infuriated with anger just with what Chito just said.

Enrico understands the feeling of unable to fight against influential guys than anyone else. He understands the feeling that Jeff is going through that is why he can’t even raise his fist against Chito.

Chito is surprised that Enrico is slamming him on the tree bark. In spite of the serious injuries he has, Enrico didn’t show any mercy to pull Chito’s body from the bed to a nearby tree.

Chito
“My my. This is unexpected coming from you.”
Enrico whispers on Chito’s ear
“You idiot. What are you up to this time?”

Chito
“Me? Hmm. I am not doing anything at all.”
“Well not that I am currently aware of anyway.”

Enrico
“You’re kidding right?”
“Well whatever it is you might be scheming please quit it.”
“This isn’t a joke.”

Chito
“Yeah I know. But I am trying to end it as a joke though.”

Enrico
“You don’t see anyone laughing Chito.”

Chito became serious
“That is because I am not joking at all Enrico.”

Enrico saw the serious expression coming from Chito. He really meant what he just said.

Jeff saw the expression coming from Chito’s face. It is exactly the same with Jayson Nifrado. Chito is capable of faking his emotions. He also doesn’t have any remorse or guilt on whatever he just said.
Jeff asked desperately for Enrico not to mess with Chito. Instead of listening, Enrico got upset and asked Jeff to stay out of the conversation.

Enrico get to think a lot on what is going on with Chito lately.
Brother Wally asked the other sacristans to help him separate the two.

Chito
“You heard the holy dudes. Get your hands off me.”

Enrico tightened his grip and replied
“What are you trying to tell us?”
“Are you stating that you can do anything you wish, because you have the power to do so?”
“Are turning into a scum just like the others!?”

Chito looked at Ziela Mae then looked at Enrico again

Chito
“I don’t have anything to say or do with this group anymore.”
“That includes you as well.”
“Believe what you want to, I won’t mind.”

Emily Ruiz later arrived to check what the trouble is all about. There she saw Chito and Enrico arguing about to fight.
Enrico raised his right hand, ready to release a punch. Chito doesn’t seem affected on what Enrico is about to do. He has that calm and confident expression on his face.
Enrico later remembered most of the rumors about Chito, starting from the child hood days who he can bully Sadistic Redel up to the recent when he saw Chito getting of a police car.
Enrico fist is shaking. He released Chito instead.
Gregory Bitanez, who is with Enrico Mildano, happens to see what Enrico just did.

Enrico lost the strength to continue and just walked away.

[coldfire01]

Christopher Larcon
“What should I do now?”
“Maybe dying would be a good option.”
“Dying? Hmm come to think of it. Why do I still live?”
“Why do other people die instead of me? They deserve better lives. Not like me whose life is probably worth nothing.”

Joana Marlen Latoneia
“Please don’t say that. Your life is precious. Reason you are still here it is because God has special plans for you. “
“You don’t seem to know the value of life. Though you claim that you have been in many near death experiences, don’t you think it is a miracle that you are still here standing. It is better that you give thanks that you are granted another day on this earth.”

Christopher Larcon
“Miracle huh?”

Joana Marlen Latoneia
“Yes it is. Just be grateful we are alive. Even though God doesn’t give you anything, just being alive is already the greatest blessing.”

Chito later opened his eyes to see himself in his room. He wakes up in bed after a dream talking to Joana Marlen.

Chito
“Sulking must be getting over me. I am starting to feel lonely and longing for a girl to love is really weird.
“Much more when I am starting to dream about Joana Marlen all of a sudden.”

Chito
“Still, why does she have to leave so soon? She still has so many things unfinished. It is too early and it is just unfair. “
“We haven’t finished what we started. I haven’t even said my feelings for her yet.”

SPYD 4 Chapter 11 – When the Wolf loses his Fangs

After the events that took place in the waterfalls, Chito is at the hangout. He is spaced out, staring on the ceiling while his mind wonders.

Chito still remembers what he just said to his aunt.

Chito
“Auntie, I want to quit. I find it boring the people in that church. Also I don’t like dull and repetitive jobs that they do as well.”
“The people there are so lame that I don’t want to be like them!”

Rebecca Gapagat, his aunt, slapped Chito at the face and asks him to leave.

When Chito left the office, Ziela Mae asks why Chito is doing this. Chito didn’t reply as he walks passed her.
Chito kept thinking about the next move. Surely without the support coming from his relatives, he will be unable to enroll next semester.
Try as much to think of a way, it seems Chito is stuck with no idea for a solution.
Chito’s problems don’t end there. It seems there are a group of guys with construction equipment and a bulldozer arrived on the hangout. Among them is Marlon Brandez who is one of the LAO Fraternity.

Chito asked what Marlon is planning to do. Marlon replied that he bought the land from Jervis Salazar Khoval and he has the paperwork to prove it. Chito only have 1 month to look for a different location to move. It is already more than enough time for residents like Chito who isn’t even a squatter on this portion of land.
Marlon plans to use the land to build a series of apartments for rent and a small business like garments factory for providing jobs for the community.
Out with the old and in with the new. There is no room for childish fantasies such as hangouts on this modern time.
Chito just quietly accepts and started packing his stuff. He also ordered Tyrone to tell everyone to follow as well.
Tyrone informed everyone to move out. The gang started packing their stuff to the outside gate.
Xavier and his wife Trish arrived at the hangout to discover a lot of unusual people at the scene.
Kris explained that the place is going to be demolished soon. Xavier asked why Chito is not doing anything to avoid it. Kris explained that the person who bought the land is the 2nd in command of the LAO fraternity. There is no way Chito can oppose someone who have higher rights like Marlon Brandez.

Xavier
“Still, even if he is from the LAO, why does he let someone like him take away the hangout.”

Chito
“That is because LAO gang founder Jervis is on a financial crisis right now. He needs to sell this land so that he can start his own business to feed his family. Marlon Brandez also won the freaking bid for new owner of the land. Unfortunately it is more than anyone in LAO can handle and even more than mine.”

Xavier
“So what if he has fat wallets?”
“You still have an ace. Your uncle is the Administrator and I am sure you can ask some magical powers like some legal actions for land authorizations.”
“With it, we can gather enough time to combine our money to topple Marlon’s”
Chito just kept quiet. Xavier nagged and asks Chito to agree. Kris said that Chito no longer have the access or influence that he used to have. All because he decided to disobey the Larcon’s punishment on the church just to avoid a certain girl who works there.
Xavier hates it when Chito is falling to another church girl. He doesn’t understand and refuses to understand the reason behind it. What is so special about girls on those places anyway he asks.
Kris said that girls on the church have divine protection. They are clean not just in the outside but the inside as well.

Xavier
“Like that matters anyway? Asian girls have the same taste of flesh to me!”

Chito doesn’t like where the conversation is going. He said
“If you want a new place for a hangout, I know where we can move.”

Chito and the gang walked far from the hangout to see the house Chito is talking about. There they saw a vacant house not from where Chito lives.
Chito explained that this is one of the houses for rent property of her mom. It doesn’t have the empty yard that the hangout has but it does have its own charms like a garage.
Xavier rejoiced that it is perfect for the new base. He is just upset why Chito never talked about it in the past. He could have saved thousands of pesos on Motels with her Italian wife.
Chito just turned around and scratches his head. It seems he really can’t stop Xavier’s bad mouth.
Tyrone is also pleased to see the new base. But he also wonders if Chito’s mom would let them use the house.
Chito proudly said that his mom will automatically reject the idea. But if the group would be willing to pay the substantial amount for the rent, then she might able to reconsider.
The group became quiet when Chito said that.

Xavier
“I don’t mind paying the rent. In fact I will take all the expenses.”
The gang became lively again.

Xavier
“I will only pay that is if Trish and I are the only ones allowed to have access on the house.”

Kris asked everyone not to listen to Xavier’s nonsense. He explained that with their numbers, they can handle the rent. The fee will be distributed according to the financial status of the member. Meaning it will be expensive to the likes of Xavier and himself.
Xavier didn’t like it. He wants to have a high fee included on Chito if he wants to participate.
Kris looked on Chito for a reply. Chito agreed on Xavier’s request.
The gang is satisfied with Kris’s suggestion. But Kris wonders if Chito can still keep up. Now that he is financially broke, Chito will be unable to pay.
Chito said to Kris not to worry about it. Somehow even if it will be difficult, Chito will find a way to contribute.

That is why Chito is working at the construction site, hoping that the remaining days he can also earn the tuition fee to enroll next semester.
Everything seems to go smoothly. However one day, when Chito is mixing cement, an unexpected visitor arrived.
That person is Enrico Mildano who is also geared up to work in the construction site with Chito.
Chito doesn’t like it that a millionaire like Enrico is pretending to work at the same site just to make fun of his situation. Much more he is actually doing the same heavy work as Chito is.
One of the workers said that Enrico is not new. He is already a regular with services almost over 1 year. He rarely works anymore ever since he has another job they say.
Chito didn’t believe what the workers said so he asked Enrico personally about it.
Enrico confirmed it and everything they said is true. But he also replied that he doesn’t work just for the money but rather he misses the feeling, the feeling of a great workout without going to a gym. And also the feeling of accomplishment after the job is done.
Chito didn’t ask anymore. He just let go about it for now.
Days passed, and time for the pay day arrived. Enrico and Chito each received a small brown envelope for their salary. Chito opened it up to see how much he earned. He counted it and sadly it wasn’t enough at all. Chito also noticed that Enrico has a higher salary. Enrico doesn’t want to show it to Chito but Chito kept on nagging about it.
Chito asks why Enrico has a higher salary. Even though Enrico rarely works, his pay is higher. Enrico explained that he has more experience in handling carpentry in both electrical and masonry.
Enrico asked Chito not to worry about it. He doesn’t have any plans of keeping the money for himself he said.
Moments later, a food delivery service arrived. They seem to be delivery so many foods, so much food that it would be enough to feed the entire construction crew. The delivery guy asks if Enrico is around. Enrico replied and gave his entire salary as payment and signed a paper for receiving the delivery.
Enrico asked the other workers to go on without him. He just took a chicken wing and ran off.
Chito asked one of the workers named Warren, if it is alright for Enrico to be doing that. Warren replied that Enrico always do this and he is not concerned about it. Enrico still has a higher paying job as the vice president of Rattan and Woodcrafts exporting company.
On the way, Enrico met Erica Iba?ez.

Erica Iba?ez
“So what did you found about Chito? Did you found out why he is working there?”
“Is he planning to get even on you after what you did at the waterfalls?”

Enrico replied
“No it is nothing like that. He is actually working desperately to earn money for some reason.”
“Also I never sensed any hostility towards me when I am there coming from him.”

Erica Iba?ez
“Maybe it is just an act to throw you off guard.”

Enrico Mildano
“Maybe, but I am positive that he has no intentions like that.”
“What I do know is this; the rumors about him are true. Chito Larcon no longer has the influence of the Larcon Family. Seeing him working hard back there, proves that he doesn’t even receive a single centavo from his relatives.”

Erica Iba?ez
“I see. But don’t you think that would also give a reason for him to attack you.”

Enrico Mildano
“He is not going to attack me for I am not the one who caused his fall. Also, he wouldn’t waste time on me for he has other things in mind. Right now, he already put himself in higher danger.”

Erica Iba?ez
“I think I understand what you are trying to say.”

Enrico Mildano
“His influence coming from the Larcon is his power and his protective shield.”

Erica Iba?ez
“And without it, all eyes of his enemies will focus on him.”

Enrico Mildano
“That is correct. And if that happens, that will be the start of his nightmares.”

Chito doesn’t know that on the next day, Enrico no longer shows up at work. He soon discovered that it was his last day for Enrico filed his resignation.
Chito went home feeling unsatisfied for the money he earns on that construction site. He is pleased with the free meal that Enrico ordered. But still he won’t be able to enroll if this keeps up. His mom agreed that Chito should be cut off any money from this semester to serve as his lesson. No one wants to lend him any money for everyone knows Chito won’t be able to pay for it. No one wants to trust him, not even Kris because he is still upset at Chito for lending highly sensitive and expensive equipment even though he doesn’t own it. Chito wants to ask Xavier but he discovers that Xavier is also in a financial problem as well. Even if Xavier had any, he won’t lend it for a guy. He only lends money on girls. Chito got sleepy thinking about it and wishes that he can have a better luck on the next day.
On the next day, Chito visited the apartment to spend some time with his buddies. Along the way, she met someone he never expects, and she is Ziela Mae Diehtral.
Chito is surprised to see Ziela Mae walking the same road. Much more that they are walking on the same direction. Chito just walked faster to get away from Ziela Mae as far as possible. He completely ignored Ziela Mae.
Once Chito arrived at the hangout, he rushed inside and went straight to the music room. He quickly grabbed on the piano keyboard and practiced some tunes.
Chito played a fast tune. Tyrone and the others are impressed at Chito. It seems that he is really in the mood to practice.
Tyrone is really amazed on how quick Chito keys in the notes. He didn’t realize that he is actually playing a slow love song that is popular these days.
Kempee later shouts from afar, asking if anyone happens to see Chito. It seems that someone is looking for him outside. Tyrone replied that Chito is here. Chito completely lost his mood to practice and just decided to wait for that person to arrive.
Kempee arrives on the room.

Kempee
“Oh here he is. Come on in.”

Chito feels troubled if Ziela Mae is visiting him. He is really not in the mood to entertain questions on why he did that or such.
Chito awaits on Ziela to arrive. But instead, a guy arrives from the door. It was no other than Jonathan Paul Mordient the Architek.

Jonathan (Architek)
“Hallow.”

Chito is a bit relieved but somehow feel distressed. Jonathan is not the type who visits not unless some bad news is happening about the LAO fraternity.

Chito with suspicious eyes
“What do you guys want this time?”

Jonathan quirked a smile and replied
“Nah I am not here to ask for trouble Chito. You know me more than anyone else that I don’t give you any of that.”
“I am just here on just 2 things though.”

Chito
“What is it?”

Jonathan (Architek)
“I heard that you put up a fight against your family, the Larcons. Is that true?”

Chito didn’t reply. Not saying a no or a yes.

Jonathan (Architek)
“So the rumors are true huh? Man that would probably suck.”
“If this keeps up, you might wind up the same as Jervis Salazar Khoval.”


Chito got upset
“If you are just here to give an insult at me then you can leave! Do not worry for I will never become like Jervis.”

Jonathan (Architek)
“Don’t worry I am not here for that reason. I am just afraid that you might do the same ending that is all.”
“But anyway, I am just about to start talking about the other thing.”

Jonathan wore that serious expression on his face.

Jonathan (Architek)
“I am just here to ask why you are messing with that guy Raymond Ramirez?”

Chito
“What about him?”

Jonathan (Architek)
“Stay far away from that guy Chito. That is for your own good.”
“He is bad news, extremely bad news.”

Chito
“Why are you saying this to me all of a sudden? Why, what did he do this time?”

Jonathan (Architek)
“It is not about the concern of what he ever does. It is about what he can do that bothers me.”
“Do you happen to know about his title?”
Chito
“Yeah that perverted title called the magic bus guy I think.”

Jonathan (Architek)
“That is just a lame excuse that he uses to cover up his own title.”
“To the Elite 10, he is called the Dark Administrator.”

Tyrone
“Phew that is some nasty name. He must have thought long and hard for a wicked name.”

Chito
“You can say that again.”

Jonathan (Architek)
“His title is not for show. He is called the Dark Administrator for he has influence on par with Chito’s uncle the real administrator of the city.”

Chito
“That is just lame.”
“Administrator level is top class. It is almost in grasp with the influence comparable to the mayor or vice mayor and a congressman.”

Jonathan (Architek)
“To be called the Elite 10, one must have the influence that is labeled –Undefiable-. It is a requirement that not a body of law must be able to stop you.”
“That is what Jervis Salazar Khoval and several other members of the indestructible ten really have.”
Chito
“So you are saying that he is the real deal?”

Jonathan (Architek) sighed
“Sadly yes, and if you Chito are just picking fights on this guy then your days are numbered.”
“I am just telling you not to be involved with this guy for it might cause your lives.”

Kempee
“That is just what that other guy also said, one of the friends of the Dark Administrator Raymond Ramirez. He asked us not to mess with Jervis Salazar Khoval or his friends.”

Jonathan (Architek)
“Who said that?”

Chito
“Oliver Aguzan.”
“He also explained that guys are just too dangerous.”

Jonathan (Architek)
“You are kidding right?”

Chito
“It is the truth.”

Jonathan sees that Chito is not lying. Chito explained what happened to him during Raymond Ramirez’s prank.

Jonathan (Architek)
“So that explains it. Aguzan probably doesn’t have any intentions of picking fights with you.”
“He is just giving you a fair warning.”

Chito
“They should just have made it all written on paper to tell me.”
“Not to go all the rouse of creating a crime scene.”

Jonathan (Architek)
“But you have to hand it with their plans. That was good acting though. “
“They probably introduce it to their men like a drill exercise of some sort.

Chito kept quiet after hearing that.

Jonathan (Architek) stands up from his seat and said
“Anyway that was just the purpose of my visit.”
“Oh yah, and guys, I would like to ask that you do not spread word to anyone that you know any of the LAO gang members or Ramirez’s group.”

Tyrone
“Why is that?”

Jonathan (Architek)
“I dunno. It might be safer if the likes of Ramirez and the others don’t know.”


Chito have a feeling that he knows why. Chito explained to Tyrone that the Elite 10 is not a unified group. Most of them are still fighting against one other. Meaning that one or 2 of the unstoppable 10 might have a grudge with the LAO fraternity and will harm any of their allies without hesitation.
Jonathan Mordient agreed with Chito. Jonathan also added that it is not advisable to take sides with any of the Elite 10. It will still be dangerous even if you side with an active member like Raymond Ramirez.

Jonathan excused himself and left the house.
While outside, Jonathan wonders another thing. Oliver Aguzan is currently working under the Larcons for some reason. Also he seems unaware that Chito spent his childhood with the LAO fraternity. Or maybe it was just an act to throw them all to a situation that is far more complex.
Another thing is the rumor about one of the elite 10, Luis Jumar appearing out of nowhere to help Chito beating some thieves. Chito doesn’t have the power or influence to order around any of the Elite 10. All of them have attitude problems and will not take orders from anyone.
Jonathan just walked straight home with doubts still in his mind.

Meanwhile, Chito kept on thinking about what Jonathan just said.

“I heard that you put up a fight against your family, the Larcons. Is that true?”
“So the rumors are true huh? Man that would probably suck.”
“If this keeps up, you might wind up the same as Jervis Salazar Khoval.”

[coldfire01]

Chito got upset
“If you are just here to give an insult at me then you can leave! Do not worry for I will never become like Jervis.”

Jonathan (Architek)
“Don’t worry I am not here for that reason. I am just afraid that you might do the same ending that is all.”
“But anyway, I am just about to start talking about the other thing.”

Jonathan wore that serious expression on his face.

Jonathan (Architek)
“I am just here to ask why you are messing with that guy Raymond Ramirez?”

Chito
“What about him?”

Jonathan (Architek)
“Stay far away from that guy Chito. That is for your own good.”
“He is bad news, extremely bad news.”

Chito
“Why are you saying this to me all of a sudden? Why, what did he do this time?”

Jonathan (Architek)
“It is not about the concern of what he ever does. It is about what he can do that bothers me.”
“Do you happen to know about his title?”
Chito
“Yeah that perverted title called the magic bus guy I think.”

Jonathan (Architek)
“That is just a lame excuse that he uses to cover up his own title.”
“To the Elite 10, he is called the Dark Administrator.”

Tyrone
“Phew that is some nasty name. He must have thought long and hard for a wicked name.”

Chito
“You can say that again.”

Jonathan (Architek)
“His title is not for show. He is called the Dark Administrator for he has influence on par with Chito’s uncle the real administrator of the city.”

Chito
“That is just lame.”
“Administrator level is top class. It is almost in grasp with the influence comparable to the mayor or vice mayor and a congressman.”

Jonathan (Architek)
“To be called the Elite 10, one must have the influence that is labeled –Undefiable-. It is a requirement that not a body of law must be able to stop you.”
“That is what Jervis Salazar Khoval and several other members of the indestructible ten really have.”
Chito
“So you are saying that he is the real deal?”

Jonathan (Architek) sighed
“Sadly yes, and if you Chito are just picking fights on this guy then your days are numbered.”
“I am just telling you not to be involved with this guy for it might cause your lives.”

Kempee
“That is just what that other guy also said, one of the friends of the Dark Administrator Raymond Ramirez. He asked us not to mess with Jervis Salazar Khoval or his friends.”

Jonathan (Architek)
“Who said that?”

Chito
“Oliver Aguzan.”
“He also explained that guys are just too dangerous.”

Jonathan (Architek)
“You are kidding right?”

Chito
“It is the truth.”

Jonathan sees that Chito is not lying. Chito explained what happened to him during Raymond Ramirez’s prank.

Jonathan (Architek)
“So that explains it. Aguzan probably doesn’t have any intentions of picking fights with you.”
“He is just giving you a fair warning.”

Chito
“They should just have made it all written on paper to tell me.”
“Not to go all the rouse of creating a crime scene.”

Jonathan (Architek)
“But you have to hand it with their plans. That was good acting though. “
“They probably introduce it to their men like a drill exercise of some sort.

Chito kept quiet after hearing that.

Jonathan (Architek) stands up from his seat and said
“Anyway that was just the purpose of my visit.”
“Oh yah, and guys, I would like to ask that you do not spread word to anyone that you know any of the LAO gang members or Ramirez’s group.”

Tyrone
“Why is that?”

Jonathan (Architek)
“I dunno. It might be safer if the likes of Ramirez and the others don’t know.”


Chito have a feeling that he knows why. Chito explained to Tyrone that the Elite 10 is not a unified group. Most of them are still fighting against one other. Meaning that one or 2 of the unstoppable 10 might have a grudge with the LAO fraternity and will harm any of their allies without hesitation.
Jonathan Mordient agreed with Chito. Jonathan also added that it is not advisable to take sides with any of the Elite 10. It will still be dangerous even if you side with an active member like Raymond Ramirez.

Jonathan excused himself and left the house.
While outside, Jonathan wonders another thing. Oliver Aguzan is currently working under the Larcons for some reason. Also he seems unaware that Chito spent his childhood with the LAO fraternity. Or maybe it was just an act to throw them all to a situation that is far more complex.
Another thing is the rumor about one of the elite 10, Luis Jumar appearing out of nowhere to help Chito beating some thieves. Chito doesn’t have the power or influence to order around any of the Elite 10. All of them have attitude problems and will not take orders from anyone.
Jonathan just walked straight home with doubts still in his mind.

Meanwhile, Chito kept on thinking about what Jonathan just said.

“I heard that you put up a fight against your family, the Larcons. Is that true?”
“So the rumors are true huh? Man that would probably suck.”
“If this keeps up, you might wind up the same as Jervis Salazar Khoval.”

Chito can’t play the piano properly being distracted with that thought in his mind.
Chito is still upset with that fact Jervis Salazar Khoval is still the guy who caused the death of the poor guy who was bullied every day. He is also upset to see Ziela Mae at the waterfalls without saying a word to protect Chito.
Chito is got angry to discover Ziela Mae doesn’t even care. She never reacted or said anything like -Chito is not like that-. For a minute there, Chito assumed that he somewhat grasped Ziela Mae’s heart. But sadly Chito is still far from cracking the surface.

“What is up with that girl? I just can’t understand what is running on that girl’s mind!”
“I can somewhat read other people on what they do next based on their emotions and feelings. But this girl is completely different.”
“I have never encountered anyone like her!”

Chito wonders if he will ever be able to understand Ziela Mae. He is in the brink of quitting it entirely. He later turns on to his friends for advice.

Tyrone replied
“I never got to see Joana Marlen. Even though I didn’t, she would probably be a lot better person than Ziela Mae.”
“No matter how much effort you try to squeeze in to Ziela Mae’s heart, you will just remain a menace to her. It would probably be better if you just end it.”

Kempee
“I agree with Tyrone. I mean you even pushed your way by getting expensive gadgets just to get her favor and still no results.”
“Even if you have the money in the world, you won’t even get close to that girl.”
“Many already gave up so you won’t look bad if you quit as well.”

Tyrone
“Yeah that is right. But it is completely up to you Chito to decide.”

Chito went outside just to think it over.

“Victory doesn’t come to those who quit.” Those are the words he heard from the Television commercial.

Chito
“I am not a quitter. But I do not want to be labeled a menace or a stalker either.”

Chito see’s Ziela Mae from afar. She is enjoying an afternoon tea with Enrico Mildano. She seems very happy with Enrico accompanying her.

Chito feels depressed even more.

Chito
“That does it. I quit!”
“Call me liar, wait I am a solid liar! Call me a quitter all you want, I am really going to quit!”
“Screw that wish about asking for another chance!”

Chito walked straight back to his home. He then gathered all the love letters under his bed and prepares to burn them on the backyard.
Chito paused for a little seeing the handwritten letter he received from Joana Marlen Latoneia. It is the only letter from a girl that he received on his entire life! No other girl would write a love letter to Chito, because most of the girls would rather avoid him for some reason.
Chito thought it over. He made up his mind. He throw the first letter on the fire and watched it burn. He also threw the other letters on the fire as well.
After that, Chito walked straight to his room. As soon as he entered, he noticed the books up on the shelf. There are 3 books there that are not covered in dirt. The plastic cover is still clear as it shines from the light outside. The color blue of the book cover is still bright compared to the encyclopedia books which their colors faded. They are no other than the Christian books that Chito protects the most, the gifts that he received from the first and only girl who cared for him.

“I cannot burn these for it would be a waste. Also I might be punished for burning holy materials.
“I would rather, like to return these books to the owner if possible.”
“Problem is she is no longer here on this earth. That wouldn’t be possible anymore.”
Chito remembers it when he received the first book. Joana Marlen bought the book from her daily allowance even though Chito asked her not to.
It began 3 years ago, just a week after Joana Marlen forgave Chito for making her wait at the junior, senior Prom. Chito is asking for forgiveness from Joana Marlen on another problem he created. He sat down at the grass right across the street. Chito waited patiently for hours just so Joana Marlen can open the gate and finally forgive him.
Joana Marlen waited for Chito to go away. But his relatives can’t stand to see someone waiting outside. Much more when it started to rain, they are even concerned that Chito still sits there, hoping Joana Marlen to show up.
Joana Marlen can’t stand it any longer. She went outside with her umbrella. Joana Marlen walked through the rain and offered another umbrella to Chito.

Joana Marlen Latoneia
“Don’t get any ideas. I still don’t trust you for what you just did. This time you went too far and I cannot just ignore it.”
“Please go home and do not show yourself here ever again!”

Christopher Larcon
“No. I won’t move from this spot not until you forgive me.”

Joana Marlen with a serious face thinks it over. Her eyes, angered, focused only to Chito’s eyes.

Joana Marlen Latoneia
“Don’t think that this is one of your mind games that you can win Chito.”
“Also, there are some things that you cannot achieve by bugging people, especially to a person who already knew your true colors.”



Christopher Larcon
“You are wrong. I am not lying to you.”
“But if that is what you think of it then so be it.”

Chito stands up from where he sits. Soaking wet from the rain, he just walked away without even taking the umbrella from Joana Marlen. Chito just went passed Joana Marlen without saying a word.
Joana Marlen felt very bad for doing this to Chito. Even though Chito does not say a word, his actions create negative impressions such as deep regrets.

Joana Marlen went straight back to her home.

Her mother asks
“Do you know that guy Joana?”

Joana Marlen
“Unfortunately, yes.”

Mrs. Latoneia
“Why did you leave that poor guy outside?”
“And here I thought that he is a thief or a stalker.”
“If you are trying to avoid him, you should’ve asked my help. I could easily say it to him that you don’t want him around, instead of being rude to the guy and just leaving him out of the cold rain.”

Joana Marlen with a bothered tone
“Maybe.”

Mrs. Latoneia
“This isn’t like you dear. No matter what happens, you don’t get upset so easily.”
“Is something wrong?”

Joana Marlen
“I don’t know.”
“I just don’t know what should I do?”
“This guy is too dangerous.”

Joana Marlen and Christopher Larcon teamed up for a science project on their class. They were picked by their teacher as the pair on their team.
Christopher Larcon with serious eyes looks at Joana Marlen to see her response. Even though Joana Marlen doesn’t speak, her face has an expression of saying “I don’t like this idea.”

Meanwhile, going back on the current time, Chito is being called by his mother. He is asked to buy some groceries while she is away. Chito is upset that he is being ordered around again. He wants to refuse but he can’t deny the fact that he is bankrupt. Following chores would be the only way he can gain some money.

On the road, Chito remembers the miserable week he spent with Joana Marlen Latoneia. Those are the days that they never got to make a decent project because they are unable to cooperate with each other. Chito is trying so hard to convince Joana that she can be upset however do not let emotions affecting the work at hand. Joana Marlen is still mad about what happened the other day.
One day, Joana Marlen had an idea. She bought a Christian book about Jesus Christ from a local book store. Joana Marlen asks Chito to read it. She also said that she doesn’t want Chito to memorize the words but instead absorb the meaning and lessons from the book. If he does, then he can finally forgive Chito for what he did.
Chito really don’t like the idea of memorizing books but if it is the only way they can pass their project then so be it.
That was the time that Chito began to absorb the lessons from the Christian book. That is also the beginning of receiving the set of books Joana Marlen gives.

At the current time again, Chito have an idea. It would be nice to return it to Joana Marlen’s parents but he would rather not face them anymore.

“I know this might sound odd and could sound as cheating, but I would like to return it to the person who owns a similar spirit as Joana Marlen.”

That is when Chito decides to meet up with John Diehtral who happens to be Ziela Mae’s younger brother. Chito gave the books as a gift to John he says. John asked where the books came from. Chito replied that it was a gift from a friend and he no longer has any use for it. Chito added that it would serve a better purpose if he just gave it to a person like John instead.
John doesn’t understand why Chito is doing this. Chito just said to John not to be suspicious about it. He explained that if he has some schemes, he would have planned nasty schemes on the likes of Redel or any other bullies on the street. He also implied that he doesn’t pick on his friends.
John still doesn’t understand so he just said that he will be holding on to the books for the meanwhile. He plans on returning these books after he finished reading it.

Chito went straight to the office of Brother Wally to apologize. He met Brother Wally before he entered the office door. Chito did not waste time and he apologized right away.

Chito
“I apologize for saying harsh words to you Brother Wally. You don’t deserve to be treated like that.”

Brother Wally
“I don’t understand. Why are you apologizing for?”


Chito
“It is about the time when I said harsh words to you, about the time when you told me to stay away from Elise.”

Brother Wally
“You don’t need to apologize. In fact I truly deserve that comment coming from you. Also I am the one at fault not you.”

Chito
“Still, that would really be a problem if I don’t do anything to make it up to you.”
“If there is anything I can do, anything at all, to make up for being a jerk back there, please tell me.”

Brother Wally laughed a little.

Brother Wally
“You really don’t have to apologize at all Chito. As I said you don’t need to.”
“That my friend was just a little act to get you riled up. And it worked perfectly.”

Chito got stunned hearing that from Brother Wally. He thinks it over. Chito became upset.

Chito
“What do you mean it was just an act? Don’t tell me its….”




Brother Wally
“Yup. It was just an act so that you don’t quit easily.”
“I was a bit concerned that everyone in the church never gives you any boost of morale.”
“They always say you will quit and you don’t deserve to be here.”
“So I acted to stop you so that you will be determined to continue. And that is how it is.”

Chito
“Unbelievable. And this is a guy in the church in front of me?”

Brother Wally
“Hey now. Don’t try to throw those words at me. I am a previous member of the LAO fraternity so deception coming from members is normal.”
“Like you never encountered any like that before?”

Chito doesn’t want to argue anymore.

Chito
“Tch. Fine. Here I am trying my best to be sincere.”
“Anyways I will be going now.”

Brother Wally
“Are you sure about doing this?”
“If you leave now then you already acknowledge you lost.”
“Is something wrong?”


Chito
“What is wrong in losing?”
“I have been in a losing streak ever since I was born. So what is the problem on getting another one?”

Chito walks away after that.

Brother Wally
“You are not in a losing streak Chito. You never were.”

Hours later, John arrived at their home bringing the 3 Christian books from Chito.
Ziela Mae is happy to see his brother back from the church. She noticed the books that John brings.

Ziela Mae
“Welcome back John. I see you borrowed some books on the library.”
“What are the books about?”

John
“Oh no these are not from the library. It was a gift from Chito.”

Ziela Mae face wore the expression that she doesn’t like it.

Ziela Mae
“You know, you shouldn’t just accept gifts from strangers? You don’t know what they want in return.”

John
“I see. But Chito said that I can return these anytime. He also said that it would serve a better purpose if he gives it to someone who would read it.”

Ziela Mae
“Ok if that is what you want then.”
“Just remember to return these books once you finished reading them alright?”

John
“Got it sis.”

John read the Christian books. It shows about the miracles of Jesus Christ and also about how good the Lord is to us.
Ziela Mae can’t help but read one of the books as well. There she saw what Chito said on the church. It was exactly the same message that he said.
Ziela Mae started to read more of the book. Every lesson Chito tells on the church seems to be coming from this book. Judging on when the book is purchased, it was already probably years. The barcode is faded and the numbers no longer visible. But the book itself is neatly preserved. The book is old but there are no traces of dirt on it.
Minutes later, John tripped over and accidentally dropped one of the books. It caused one of the covers to snap revealing a love letter hidden inside the book cover.
Ziela Mae slowly approaches her hand on the letter so that she can put it back. But Jeff grabbed the letter before she can.

Jeff
“Oh what is this? Is this a love letter from a girl?”
“I didn’t know you knew someone who has interest in religion John.”


John
“Give it back Couzin. That letter is not for me.”

Jeff
“Yeah right. Just who is it for? Don’t tell me it is for Ziela Mae.”

John
“Maybe. Because the book is from Chito.”

Jeff’s became quiet when he heard that.

Jeff chuckles. Jeff replied
“That’s funny. For a minute there you got me.”
“I would have believed you if the letter is not neatly made like a girl.”
“This can never be a love letter made by a guy.”

John
“How many times should I have to tell you that this letter is not for me?”

Ziela Mae
“John is right. The letter is not for him.”
“It is also not meant for me either.”

Jeff
“Then who is it for Ziela Mae?”

Ziela mae
“That letter is probably for Chito.”

Jeff is surprised to hear that. Jeff replied
“You guys are trying to be funny but you are not doing a pretty good job at it. “
“If what you say is true then why is a letter for Chito here? Also what kind of guy would keep a letter on obvious locations and left it unopened?”
“Do you think that Chito forgot to read it?”

Ziela Mae
“I don’t know.”

Jeff
“Here we go again. Your uncertainty and forgiving nature dragged you down one time so don’t let it happen again!”
“You promised not to mess with these guys right?”

[coldfire01]

Jeff is about to open the envelope. Ziela Mae asks not to open it. If it is for Chito, it would be best that he get to look at it first instead.
Jeff became upset. Ziela Mae is acting stupid again he says. John moved in between asking both of them not to fight. John also said that he agrees with his sister. It would be best that the letter is sent to the proper destination.
Jeff wants to speak but he lost the strength to argue any more.
Ziela Mae promised that this will be the last. After this, she won’t get herself involved with the likes of Chito ever again. She doesn’t like it to peek on people’s private business. So it is best to have the letter and the book returned.
Jeff asks who will return it. Will John return the books to Chito personally? Ziela Mae replied that John shouldn’t get near to Chito for they are still a bad influenced group. Ziela Mae suggests Jeff to do it but Jeff refused.
Jeff
“Well don’t look at me. I wouldn’t want a minute or two near those guys.”
“Why don’t you ask John since he is the one who received it.”

Ziela Mae
“I won’t ask John to do that.”
“I’ll do it.”

Jeff
“You’re kidding right? You mustn’t do that.”

Jeff looks at Ziela Mae face. Ziela Mae is not kidding when she said that.

Jeff
“If it comes to this then I will do it then.”

Ziela Mae
“No you don’t have to. I will do it.”

Jeff
“This is insane. Do you have any idea what that guy is capable of doing?”
“He is a natural disaster here on this street!”

Ziela Mae
“Don’t worry. You will accompany me there right?”

Jeff wanted to take responsibility of returning the letters but he is still afraid of guys like Chito. Jeff still wears the scars from the beating he received for messing powerful groups like Jayson Nifrado.
Jeff later made up his mind. He decided to go along with Ziela Mae to return the letter to Chito.

Few minutes passed and Ziela Mae arrived to the hangout. But it is already being attended by a construction group. Marlon Brandez happens to see Ziela Mae. Marlon asked if they happened to be looking for Chito and his group. Ziela Mae said yes. Marlon replied that they moved to one of the houses for rent that the Larcon’s own. Marlon drew the directions how to get there on a paper and gave it to Ziela Mae. Marlon wants to personally tell him the locations but he is too busy for the moment. Ziela Mae thanked Marlon and they went to the next destination.

By following the instructions Marlon said, they arrived to the gate of the house that Mrs. Anna Larcon or Chito’s mom owns.

Inside the new hangout, Tyrone shouts to ask if Chito is around. Kempee replied that Chito is here.
Chito is on the second floor.

Chito replied
“Can you please say to that person who is looking for me that I am currently outside? I can’t practice properly with people keep on looking for me one after the other.”

Kempee looks at the window but all he can see is just the top part of the head of the people. He can’t even see the face of the girl.

Kempee replied
“Dood, I think that it is a chick with Tyrone who is looking for you.”
“Shall we still say you are away?”

Chito got curious so he also took a look at the window. But the angle is miserable so he cannot even see anyone who is below.

Chito
“You and your silly jokes.”
“And why would a girl be looking for me? It is not like there is a girl who is interested at me anyway?”

Kempee
“I don’t know. Must be one of your classmates I suppose.”

Chito gulps in fear. Chito replied
“Oh man. Not that tomboy again.”
“She will be very mad at me if I don’t let her in.”
“Send her upstairs guys.”

Tyrone arrived and said
“Chito that girl doesn’t want to go in. She just wants to speak with you outside.”

Chito didn’t waste any time and went outside. Once he opened the door, at his surprise that it is Ziela Mae with Jeff.

Chito is curious why Ziela Mae came to visit him. He doesn’t like it very much as well.

Chito wearing those angered eyes.
“So why are you here?”

Ziela Mae
“Don’t look at me like that. I was just here to give you back the books you gave to my little brother.”
“I don’t want owe any gratitude coming from you.”

Jeff showed the books and hands it over to Chito. Chito took it from Jeff and placed it on a nearby table.

Chito still rude
“Thank you for that. Anything else I can do for you?”

Ziela Mae
“One more thing.”

Ziela Mae reached through her purse and showed a letter to Chito.

Ziela Mae
“I believe this letter is for you.”
“We accidentally found it hidden inside the book cover.”

Chito’s expression quickly changed to a concerned face.
Chito slowly reached for the letter from Ziela Mae’s hands.

Chito felt relieved when he get a hold of the letter.

Ziela Mae saw Chito’s expression.

Ziela Mae
“Well that is all we came for. We will be leaving now.”

But before Ziela Mae left she said
“You better not hurt that girl, the one who taught you everything about the church.”
“She must have tried very hard to convince you to change.”
“I can feel that she is quite determined. That also explains why she bought those books for you.”

Chito didn’t look at Ziela Mae while he speaks.

With a sad bothered tone, Chito
“Yeah she is really determined. But don’t worry about me hurting her.”
“For you see she is no longer alive anymore.”

Ziela Mae and Jeff are shocked to hear that.

Jeff
“What the …? So you killed her?”

Chito is also surprised
“Huh where did you get that idea from?”
“I didn’t kill her you idiot.”

With a bothered tone, Chito added
“She also has a disease just like my other friend. She suffered a fatal heart cancer.”
Ziela Mae didn’t speak anymore.

Chito later pretended a smile. But this fake smile is visibly sad this time.

Chito
“Thank you for finding the letter. I am truly grateful.”

Chito bows down in front of the two and went straight inside the new hangout. Chito locked himself in on one of the rooms and asks not to be disturbed while he reads the letter inside.

[coldfire01]

Ziela Mae wonders what that letter is about. The way she saw Chito behaves is totally different from what is expected from him.
Jeff noticed that Ziela is thinking deep about it. Jeff asked if there is something wrong. Ziela Mae replied that it is nothing at all.

Ziela Mae and Jeff went straight home not thinking about it any more.

SPYD 4 Chapter 12 – Uncovering the truth

Chito while at the hangout
“I guess this would be expected. Even after all that hard work, I am still unable to enroll this semester.”
“Man this bites. They really mean it when they are going to cut off my funding.”

The semester break already ended. It is already 2 weeks since the start of the class. Chito spends his time either by staying at the hangout practicing some tunes or playing at the arcade games hall just to forget boredom.
For Chito, spending time on the streets wouldn’t be bad however he just can’t stand it when his enrollment is put on hold for several months. To him, that is rather humiliating.


His classmates would be wondering why he is not yet enrolled. What would Chito do if his classmates paid him a visit? What kind of silly excuses must he come up so that they won’t be worried? That is what Chito is trying to figure out right now.

One afternoon, Chito is thinking on where to spend the money he desperately worked for the tuition fee. It hurts Christopher Larcon that the amount didn’t make it in time. Much more that he would be spending the money on worthless things. He later made up his mind and decided to spend it all on food for a change.
Chito visited a fast food restaurant and ordered a new meal that is on the menu. Once he received his meal, he looked for a table where he can start eating. He found one and there he started to eat.
Just right after he munched a side of a hamburger, a familiar girl’s voice is asking Chito if the seat in front is available.
Chito just said yes even without looking who it is. Chito is quite curious on who it might be so he slowly looked to see the face of that girl. At his surprise it was no other than Ziela Mae Diehtral.
Ziela Mae prepares the food on the table while she sits down on her seat just the other side of the table.

Chito slowly grinds his teeth on the hamburger while he looks at Ziela Mae. He is still curious on what is going on.


Ziela Mae
“Please don’t look at me like that.”
“I don’t seem to find an available table anywhere that’s why.”

Chito stands up and about to leave
“If you want I can leave and pack up my food, so that you can sit down.”

Ziela Mae
“Please don’t go.”
“I didn’t mean to offend you or anything.”
“I just want to talk if it is alright?”

Chito sits down again on his seat.

Ziela Mae
“I really want to ask you something.”
“I am not a native here on this town so I don’t know about you or how this town works. “
“But I think understand what you are going through. But what I don’t understand and want to know is…”

Chito
“Why am I doing this?”

Ziela Mae didn’t say a word but her eyes are saying it is the right answer.

Chito
“No reason at all.”
“I just love challenges I guess.”
“Anything that gives me thrills is good enough for me.”

Ziela Mae
“Is that your real reason?”

Chito laughs a little
“I guess. Probably.”
“But I was really wondering what happens when I lose everything I have.”
“I never actually know what the previous Gang Lord Jervis Salazar Khoval feels after he stirs a commotion and his entire family on an uproar.”

Ziela Mae doesn’t understand.
“A Gang Lord?”
Chito became sad
“Probably this is my punishment for making fun of guys like Jervis Salazar Khoval. Call it Karma I guess.”

Ziela Mae
“I see. So you still DO feel guilt and believe in Karma?”

Chito
“Don’t get me wrong. I don’t believe in Karma. It is not even on our religion you know.”
“It is on a foreign belief that was just injected to our culture.”

Ziela Mae
“I see. But what stops you for not becoming like the other gang Lords if you don’t believe in Karma?”

Chito
“I don’t know.”

Ziela Mae is not satisfied with Chito’s answer.


Chito
“But just because I don’t believe on Karma doesn’t mean that I use it as an excuse to do hurt people.”
“I believe in the saying -don’t do to others what you don’t want to happen to you.-”
“Something like that maybe.”

Ziela Mae giggled

Chito didn’t like that, he asks
“Did I say something hilarious?”

Ziela Mae
“Nothing really, it is just that last reply is so simple. I didn’t expect it coming from you.”

Chito didn’t like it. He responds
“Your words cut deep my lady. A thousand pardons if my words do not possess fine wordings.”
“To further improve myself, tell me where I must begin princess?”

Ziela Mae
“I am not a princess. You kind ser lacks the creativity to speak a substantial sentence.”
“If you are creating a lie make use of better constructive words that would make it easy to believe.”

Chito
“Is sentence the emphasis of the words I must speak? Should it be the focus is the message that portraits the words entire meaning?”
“And what is your proof that I lie on what I just speak?”

Ziela Mae got serious
“It is because songwriters such as you can utilize words that you craft easily as tools. You can convince the audience hears words as sweet as honey they know naught it is built for a lie.”
“That is why I know that that the sentence construction or inventing believable excuses pose no a problem on a guy your caliber right?”
Chito is overwhelmed

Ziela Mae
“I am sorry. I said too much. I….”

Chito looked away at Ziela Mae while he speaks
“Yeah I guess that would be correct.”
“A song is sometimes used to create lies.”

Ziela Mae and Chito did not speak for a few seconds. Chito suddenly lost his appetite as well. The food seems to have turned bad after that discussion.

Chito
“You really don’t like everything about me or what I do correct?”

Ziela Mae
“No it is not you. It is just gangsters like you that I don’t understand.”
“But whenever I am with you, I can feel you are different from the rest.”
“I just can’t seem to know why.”

Chito wants to speak some more but he rather not. It might turn out bad just like the last time he tried flirting with Ziela mae.





Ziela Mae
“Back there, I never got to apologize to you.”
“I already knew that you wanted to quit for my sake.”
“I was afraid of telling the sacristans what you are trying to do at the waterfalls.”
“You are suffering right now because of me. And I never did anything to avoid it.”

Chito
“You are so boring you know.”

Ziela Mae is surprised.

Chito
“Don’t act like you actually care. It really doesn’t suit you.”
“What I do is my decision that I chose for myself and myself alone!”

Ziela Mae
“Please don’t say that. I just wanted to help.”

Chito
“Don’t get any ideas on what I just did. Just do what you want to do and I will do mine.”

Chito didn’t speak a word after that. He continued eating his meal acting like he doesn’t care. Ziela Mae asks Chito for forgiveness but Chito ignores her completely. Chito acts like Ziela Mae do not exist on the same table.

Ziela Mae feels sad for the cold treatment from Chito. She now realized the feeling of being ignored.
Little that Ziela Mae knows, is Chito is very happy to be with Ziela Mae. Chito still can’t believe that she is sitting right in front him. He is trying his best to hide his emotions from Ziela Mae.

“Oh man, am I dreaming? A cutie like Ziela Mae is sitting right there, eating with me.”
“It feels like a date of some sort.”

Chito feels overjoyed for the situation he is in right now.
Minutes later, the atmosphere changes as a group of men with barongs walks inside the same restaurant where Chito is.
The one who leads the group is Raymond Ramirez with Oliver Aguzan and Shawn Ulgery.
Just after Raymond entered the restaurant, a sacristan named Sammy is about to enter the door. Sammy is a sacristan who is rumored to feel presence of spirits but he is unable to see it through his eyes.
When Sammy is about to enter the restaurant, he place his palm on where a door is suppose to be. Sammy acts like there is some wall on the door that prevents him from entering. It is not like there is a real wall, but it is more like evil is gathered in that place. Sammy doesn’t like the energies coming from this place do not host any good will. He just walked away pretending he didn’t noticed anything.

Raymond Ramirez and Chito meet with each other, which is unfortunately at the same local fast food restaurant. Chito didn’t like it when Raymond wears that evil smile as soon as he saw Chito. It became more disturbing when this guy along with Oliver Aguzan and Shawn Ulgery decided to approach Chito’s table.
Chito’s face is troubled with uncertainty on what he must do so that this guy can go away. Normal conventional methods like -please I beg you- don’t work on this guy. The more you beg, the more he will just stay.
Ziela Mae on the other hand, is very happy to see Raymond Ramirez for some reason.

Ziela Mae
“Hey I can’t believe it. But it’s you! Yes it is you.”

Raymond Ramirez with confused look on his face
“Pardon?”

Ziela Mae
“Yes I am definitely sure on this one.”
“Don’t you remember me? I am from the town of ...”

Ziela Mae remembers that her parents kept on reminding her that she mustn’t tell anyone what town she is from.
If she ever enclosed details about her past then her life would be ruined again. That will also be the start of her moving to another town.

Oliver Aguzan seems to remember Ziela Mae. Oliver Aguzan whispers on Raymond Ramirez’s ear.

Raymond Ramirez is surprised
“You’re kidding right?”

Oliver Aguzan nods his head without saying a word.
Raymond Ramirez looks at Chito again. But this time he has a somewhat wicked smile when he looks at Chito.

Raymond Ramirez
“So that explains why Chito is hanging with this girl huh?”

Oliver Aguzan
“Most likely.”
Raymond Ramirez can’t stop laughing.

Raymond Ramirez looked again with Chito.
“Man that is so cute!”
“You better show me –that- when we go home alright?”

Oliver Aguzan
“That wouldn’t be a problem. I will get it for you right away.”

Raymond Ramirez
“That would be wonderful. Please do.”

Oliver Aguzan just left without saying a word.
Ziela Mae wonders asks Chito why Oliver Aguzan just left. She wonders if she offended him or something. Chito said that to not worry about their weird transactions. It is best that they know nothing about it.
Raymond Ramirez still can’t stop smiling, especially when he looks at Chito again.

Chito got upset
“Do I really look funny Mr. Dark Administrator?”

Raymond Ramirez smile turned into a serious frown.

As his reply, Raymond Ramirez whispers on Chito’s ear.
“I wouldn’t throw that name around. Someone might hear that and you might find yourself learning to be allergic of using those set of words. The hard way that is.”

Chito didn’t speak a word.

Raymond Ramirez smiled towards Ziela Mae.
“But anyways. Miss, May I borrow Chito for a while?”

Chito
“What if I refuse?”

Raymond Ramirez whispers again at Chito’s ear. Chito became infuriated with anger all of a sudden. He just willingly followed Raymond Ramirez outside.


Raymond Ramirez lights up a cigarette while outside
“You are indeed one sly wolf Chito.”
“I didn’t know you have the initiative like that. Good job!”

Chito
“This better not be one of your sick twisted pranks. What the heck are you up to this time? If you have any plans, please stop it whatever it is.”
“Also why does she know you?”

Raymond Ramirez
“Oh man this is something.”
“You don’t wanna be interested in me. But I am rather interested in you giving me more details.”

Suddenly Oliver Aguzan arrived with his ipod touch video.
Raymond Ramirez
“Speaking of the devil, here he comes.”

Oliver Aguzan
“I have it saved here in high resolution boss.”

Raymond Ramirez
“Magnificent.”

Raymond Ramirez played a video where there is a girl being raped while asleep by various guys. Chito is upset that these guys don’t pay any attention to him. They would rather watch porn than hear his words.

Just when Chito is about to speak, Raymond Ramirez
“I see that girl but who do you think is Chito on the bunch of losers?”
“This is miserable to watch. Do you have a better copy?”

Oliver Aguzan
“Unfortunately the faces of these guys are properly blurred except for the girl.”

Raymond Ramirez
“That Chito has some skills. That is what I call art!“
“But I didn’t expect Chito has that technological advancement to blur faces though.”
“Good job at hiding your identities. But you don’t fool us.”

Chito tried to understand the situation carefully. He is shocked to come up with somewhat a disturbing conclusion.
Raymond Ramirez
“Anyways after seeing you with that girl, confirms our suspicions are correct.”
“The girl don’t mind acting on that little video stunt of yours.”

Chito doesn’t understand what Raymond is up to.

Raymond Ramirez
“As a long time buddy of yours, well technically I will let you become one. I am here to make an agreement with you.”
“How much is a night or two for that girl? Can you arrange one for me please?”

Chito
“That girl is not for sale Ramirez.”

Raymond Ramirez played the video and shows it to Chito
“Oh don’t say that child. Surely everyone has a price on their heads.”
“Don’t worry. You will be heavily compensated if you are the one to bridge us. You see, I am quite willing to pay any amount for such a beauty.”

Chito
“I don’t understand where you are coming from for I don’t know yet what you are up to.”
“I am still wondering how Ziela Mae knew a pig like you.”
“Are you guys the scum who recorded that video?”

Raymond and Oliver looked at each other and laughed very hard.
Raymond Ramirez
“This is priceless. What a guy!”

[coldfire01]

Oliver Aguzan
“You said it Raymond.”
“Dumb way of washing your hands, Chito.”

Chito didn’t like it when these guys laugh at him. Chito feels like he is being looked down for he doesn’t have the power to oppose these guys.

Chito
“Listen, if you were the guys who did that to her.”
“I promise to use everything I have to destroy you mark my word!”

Shawn Ulgery didn’t like what Chito just said. Raymond and Oliver stopped for a few seconds to catch their breaths. They began to look at each other and started to laugh again.

Raymond Ramirez tries to endure it
“Please no more. My stomach hurts. I just can’t stop laughing.”

Shawn Ulgery
“Boss I seriously think that Chito is not kidding.”

Raymond tries to refrain himself from laughing. He is still having a hard time enduring it though. Every time he looks at Chito, to him Chito is like a bag of laughs that Raymond can’t bear.

Raymond Ramirez (dark Administrator)
“Phew. That was fun.”
“I never laughed this hard. Since… since…”
“I don’t know I forgot.”
“Also I have never seen someone with guts to pin the blame on me, much more to a sin I never actually committed. “

Oliver Aguzan
“You said it. If you ask me, he might even be the first and only one who might do that to you.”

Raymond Ramirez
“Yes that is quite correct.”
“But let’s not give him a bigger head than what he already has.”
“I mean we are here for a business proposal.”
“So what do you say?”

Chito still strongly said no.

Oliver Aguzan
“He is just confused. He is still unaware about who he is dealing with.”

Raymond Ramirez
“Confused? I don’t think so. If you ask me, he is young and selfish hogging that girl for himself. He doesn’t have any plan on sharing.”

Chito
“You guys are slow at understanding. What part of –no- you didn’t get?”
“Whatever, I am leaving.”


Oliver Aguzan
“You might be right there, Ramirez.”
“So what are we going to do now?”

Raymond Ramirez thought of an idea.

Raymond Ramirez
“Times like these, we let him do what he wants, for now that is.”

Oliver Aguzan wears that wicked smile
“I understand. He will eventually change his mind later on. Consequences happens if not.”

The three just left.

Chito just shouted at those guys
“You monkeys would try to assume all you want but I won’t change my mind!”
“I don’t know what ticks on that rotten brain of yours but you guys can forget it you hear me!?”

Chito just walked inside the restaurant.

Chito
“Geez what are those guys thinking anyway? Just because they are powerful doesn’t mean they can buy anyone they want.”

Chito returned to the table where Ziela Mae is. But as soon as he arrived, Ziela Mae received a call that she needs to go home right away. Chito asks if he can go with Ziela Mae but she would prefer to be alone. Chito understands. Ziela Mae left.

Chito wonders about that scandal video that Ramirez has. He began to think why that video resembles Ziela Mae.
Chito visited one of his friends on the computer caf? near the school He looked for a guy named Marvin Doziku. He is the technician in charge on that area.

Marvin is known as a technician who fixes computers there but there is a hidden agenda on this guy. He is one of the high level hackers on the entire city. Drop out of an international Information Technology Institution. He is even rumored to be able to gain profits higher than his colleagues using illegal methods. However no solid evidence proves it and it is all remained a rumor though.
Chito wanted to meet up with this guy to confirm a video scandal that is even posted on the internet. To confirm if the video is modified to look like Ziela Mae or something related to it.
Marvin gets to see the video. He also claimed to have watched this and explained it is one of the hottest videos that are favored by many users.
Marvin asks what Chito wants to do with this video. He also asks if he knows this girl on the video as well.
Chito replied that he doesn’t. However he is curious to the guy who can do this.
Marvin explained that the girl is sleeping. He doesn’t know the history of it but something is off on this video.
Chito later opened his backpack and showed 2 Nintendo Gamecube Consoles inside. Chito said that if Marvin hacks upon who uploaded the video he would give the video games to Marvin for free.
Marvin still hesitant on what Chito is up to. Chito seems desperate to even ask assistance from him. Marvin asked again what Chito knows about this girl. He even said that he will never start unless he knows exactly what is going on.
Chito sighs. It seems he doesn’t have a choice. Chito told the entire story about Ziela Mae and how he saw that video in the hands of one of the powerful men of the street.
Marvin understands. He replied that he will start to hack the user profile of the guy who uploaded this video. However he will not take anything for Chito this time. He will hold on to the Nintendo Gamecube for a month or two. He just can’t stop staring the games on this video game. It must be entertaining to have it around the house he plied.
Chito has no problem with that. And it is settled. They started to hack on the user account of the guy who uploaded it.

Marvin prepares his computer and he makes sure that every proxy list server he is using is active. He then checked the pings and prepared his list of IP address to be used by several programs to create a 3 to 5 layer proximity fake IP’s as decoys making him untraceable.
He then activated some purging programs and prepared a long list of fake credit card information just in case if he has the need to use one.
Marvin stretches his arms like the musicians about to play a concert on stage.
“Let’s begin shall we.”

Marvin entered the scandal website to check the videos. He then tried logging in and purging the user account hammering it with several SQL hacking programs and source codes. He also chat with some of his friends provoking them a race who can hack it first. Some hackers also participated for the challenge.
The user id of that person who uploaded that video is in trouble for it is now being dismantled by several professional hackers. They are now gathering information in an incredible speed.

Chito is amazed at this guy. He knows that this guy has some suspicious sideline but this is completely beyond what he expects on Marvin. He only knows Marvin as a moderate hacker just on friendster user profiles. Chito would feel sorry for any girl that this guy targets. He can purge any myspace accounts and viewing nude private photos like opening a book. He then saves those images for on his hard drive and online account as part of his collection.

2 hours passed. No luck with any information to this guy. Marvin’s friends online are actually quitting for they see no leads who this person would be. No identity left on how to trace this guy. No address, no region, not even a name or organization.
Chito asked Marvin on where the video is stored. Marvin replied it is on this scandal website. Chito asks that the video is indeed posted in a blog however where is the video posted. It should be on an online mass storage website.
Marvin remembers it. The scandal website is just for streaming videos only. However they need to see the video where it is uploaded originally.
Marvin searched several websites by googling it. There he discovered the primary storage where it is from.
The video is stored on the leading online storage called Bigonlinecabinet. It can be used to store videos, pictures and also games. The other programmer hackers confirm it that the user account’s is here however it still doesn’t enclose any information on who it is. No address, not a name or organization, nothing to use to trace it back to this guy.
Just when Chito is about to lose hope on this wild goose chase, Marvin opens a different folder. This one is stored and has several passwords to just unlock it. Marvin must have kept it safe from remote intruders as his ace.
When Marvin activated the program, it unlocked a lot of AJAX codes that is used by advanced SQL programmers. This is in depth programming to the core.
Marvin searched for the IP address of the guy who uploaded it. Region set and there it is.
Now all Marvin has to do is search the IP address and cross reference an address.
There it is, on a town outside the metro. A small growing town called Arumes. On an internet caf? called DOTA Baddies.

Chito stood up on his seat and screams –YEAH!-.

Chito launched a high five to Marvin’s palm.
“You did it. You are the man.”

They are happy for the discovery of the person who did it. Now they have the location. Now it is up to Chito to uncover the next steps.


Marvin
“Phew that was fun. That guy who uploaded sure put up a fight.”

Chito
“You said it. But he is still no match for you.”

Marvin
“However I wouldn’t celebrate just yet.”
“Surely you know what I do right?”
“I have the capability to change my IP address into a fake one. Since we relied on an IP trace, I am quite sure that the guy who uploaded the video might have the same capability of masking IP as well.”

Chito
“I know. But it would be a good place to start searching than none I guess.”

Marvin
“That is fine. It is up to you what you use that information for.”

Chito
“I know.”
Marvin
“I wish you luck Chito.”
“The road you are taking is a long and harsh one. A gangster leader like you wanting to be loved by a rape victim girl sure is an absolute fantasy.”

Chito is surprised that Marvin knows.

Chito
“I know.”

Marvin
“If there is a gang leader who can do it, I believe you are that person who can break the odds.”

Chito didn’t waste time and took the next bus going to the Arumes town.

Chito arrives at the Arumes city hall. He asks people around if they know a computer caf? called the DOTA baddies.
After an hour of search, he found the computer caf?. Before he begins to investigate, he decided to buy a gulaman to quench his thirst from walking through the blazing heat from the road.

While he is buying a drink, a voice of a man replied behind him
“What are you doing in a place like this Christopher Larcon?”

When Chito turns around, it is no other than Enrico Mildano.

Chito
“I am here for some business that is all.”

Enrico
“I wonder what business that would be.”

Chito
“Oh it is nothing of any importance.”

Enrico
“I see. If that is what you want then so be it.”

Enrico wonders what this guy is up to this time, and to think that he is here on the village where Ziela Mae is born. Does it mean that Chito is related to the monsters that made Ziela Mae cry?
Chito also wonders why Enrico Mildano is here. Chito assumes that Enrico must have known about that video scandal of Ziela Mae that is why he is here. But Chito wonders where Enrico Mildano got that information from.


Chito
“I think I would be going now. Where might you be heading?”

Enrico
“Oh I was just looking for a good place to set up a business as well.”

Chito sighs.

Chito
“You know it bites when we have to lie at each other whenever we meet.”
“It just doesn’t seem right.”

Enrico Mildano
“That I have to agree.”
“We really need to stop this.”

Chito and Enrico Mildano looked at each other without speaking for a few seconds.

Chito
“Anytime now.”

Enrico Mildano
“Huh?”

Chito
“I was hoping you tell me the reason you are here now.”

Enrico Mildano wants to go first but the truth he knows is unbearable to describe.

Enrico Mildano
“I would like to go first but I would rather hear yours first.”

Chito also wants to go first but the truth he knows is also unbearable to tell.

Chito
“This is pointless. If you don’t plan on sharing me what you know then that is fine.”
“But I think you know it already why I am here.”

Chito asks Enrico not to follow him. Enrico asked why. Chito replied that he must go to the people who did that awful video to Ziela Mae. Enrico doesn’t understand so he asked more about it. Chito said that Ziela Mae has a video scandal and he is here to find out about the previous guys who did it with her.
Enrico doesn’t believe it. Chito invites Enrico to a local internet caf? so that he can see for himself. Enrico replied that there is no need for that since he always brings his laptop PC at the trunk of the car. Gregory Bitanez was generous enough to drive Enrico to this place.
Chito turned on the computer and streamed the video. He showed it to Enrico and Gregory. Enrico is shocked at the very start of the video. Enrico closed the internet explorer for he doesn’t want to finish the video because it was just too despicable. Chito explained that he managed to be here by tracing the owner of the video to this town.

Now Chito asked again why Enrico is here.
Enrico didn’t keep it any more and explained himself as well. Enrico pulled up a Friendster account and typed in Emily Ruiz on the search panel. He said that Emily is Ziela Mae’s best friend and he just checked the location on where she lives. It is quite similar from what Chito just did.
Enrico is also interested on what happened to Ziela Mae. But he never expected that something this foul is posted on the internet.
Chito has no intentions of going this far to know Ziela Mae’s delicate past. But after knowing this he can never sit and ignore the monsters that did this.
Enrico understands what Chito feels.

Enrico
“I understand what you feel Chito however what will you do if you meet those men?”
“Surely even if you took revenge against those guys using all that incredible influence of yours, it will not bring back what was lost to Ziela Mae.”

Chito stopped to think.
“I know.”
“But I just wanted to help.”

Enrico Mildano sighs.

Enrico
“What you are about to discover will be more insane from here on end.”
“If you are up to it then please follow me.”

Chito is intrigued on what Enrico knows about this issue. He just nods his head and followed Enrico.
Enrico and Chito drives to where Emily Ruiz lives. It is quite convenient that Emily wrote her real address on her Friendster account. Chito explained that it is not advisable for personal information might be used against you. The quote came from Marvin Doziku.
Enrico knocks on the door. A middle aged man opened it. Enrico asked if a girl named Emily Ruiz lives here. The middle aged man rudely slams the door and shouted there is no Emily who lives here. Enrico apologized for the trouble.


Chito
“Maybe they moved out or something. It sounds fishy already for having your address posted on friendster accounts.”

Enrico
“That may be a possibility. Let’s just ask around.”

Chito and Enrico asked around about a girl named Emily Ruiz. But no one seems to know where she lives.
They tried asking everywhere but when they are about to quit, an old woman probably about age of 50’s dressed as a beggar approached them.

The old woman asks why Chito and Turon are looking for Emily.
Chito replied that they are the new classmates of Emily Ruiz.

The old woman
“If you are looking for that girl it is best you forget about it.”
“Ever since -that- incident, their family became miserable.”

Enrico
“What do you mean ma’am.”

The old woman
“It is best that you stay away from them. This is also for your own safety.”



Chito
“Please ma’am. We really want to know about Ziela Mae. We want to help her that is why we are looking for Emily Ruiz.”

The old woman looks at Chito’s concerned eyes. Enrico saw it too that Chito is really concerned about Ziela Mae.

The old woman
“Why do you want to know about Ziela Mae?”

Chito
“Because we are their friends. We just don’t want to see her sad anymore.”

The old woman
“Friends huh. If you know what their pasts might be that you might want to reconsider.”

Enrico
“We already know their pasts. That is why we are here. We want to know what we should do to help.”

The old woman sees Enrico is determined as well.

The old woman
“I will tell you everything but first I’m really hungry.”
“Do you have anything to eat?”

Enrico offered the old woman to eat on a restaurant nearby. The old woman agreed.
The group drove in a car to the restaurant nearby. But they were stopped by the guard just when they are about to enter. The guard explained that he can’t let in dirty customers with torn apart clothes. Gregory asked for a manager and the manager said the same thing. Enrico asked Gregory not to argue any more. He understands what the manager feels so he will be the one to order for everyone.
Enrico asked Chito what he would like to eat. Chito replied he doesn’t want anything. Enrico understands. What Enrico doesn’t know is Chito is still full after eating with Ziela Mae.
Enrico ordered take out and they looked for a place where they can eat.
While driving, the old woman asked Enrico to park over on that place.

The four of them went inside an old house not far from here. At first you looked at the house, it is not actually that old. The walls are dirtied with several hateful graffiti’s and the windows are broken probably someone kept throwing rocks at it. The doors seemed to be opened by force because the hinges are loose and the door shows some impression that it was hammered.
Enrico asks the old woman if it is alright to stay here. The old woman replied that this is her house so it wouldn’t be a problem.
However, Chito is a bit bothered as he remembers what Jervis Salazar Khoval did. About a guy who became the human punching bag of various gangs in Balthazar Street. It shows a similar feeling of a powerful guy invaded this place.
Enrico saw that Chito is quite bothered with it. Enrico asks if Chito is alright. Chito just replied that everything is fine.

After they finished eating the meal, the old woman
“Ok. That hits the spot.”
“Let’s begin shall we?”

Enrico and Chito anticipates the old woman

The old woman
“Where shall I start?”
“Oh I know. “
“About this place where we stand now is the previous home of Ziela Mae Diehtral.”

Chito and Enrico are shocked to hear this.

Chito didn’t like it
“This is insane. What did they do to deserve this punishment?”

Enrico just kept quiet and awaits the old woman to speak more.

The old woman with a tone of voice about to cry
“What did she do? Ziela Mae never did anything wrong to deserve any of this.”
“That monster who calls himself the Gang Lord should be the one to be punished.”
Enrico and Chito listened to the story coming from the old woman.
The old woman started telling what happened to Ziela mae. She told everything on how Ziela Mae was deceived by a gangster up to the day she moved out of this town.
Chito’s hands form a fist as he crumples the soil he grasps. His body trembles to everything that old woman just said. Enrico saw it.

[coldfire01]

Enrico asked
“I apologize if this seems abrupt, but may I ask where is the child of Ziela mae?”
“I never imagined she ever had one.”

Chito looked at Enrico when he asked that

The old woman
“Unfortunately, the child passed away a week after it was born.”

Enrico, Gregory and Chito are again shocked to hear that.

Enrico
“I’m sorry to hear that.”

The old woman
“And about Emily, after knowing the truth about his brother, she left this town.”
“I hear she is living with her classmates outside town. She also found out everything about what his dear brother did.”
“And about Jayson Nifrado.”

Enrico, Chito and Gregory anticipate this.

The old woman
”He is no longer among the living.”

Chito and Enrico is shocked again to what they heard.

Chito
“What happened?”

The old woman
“Apparently the fool attempted suicide.”
“He was found hanging his neck to a rope inside his room.”
“The pig probably never got to swallow the guilt of what he did.”

Enrico asked the old woman not to continue anymore. He already got what he needed and thanked the old woman for sharing the information.
The group leaves after that. The old woman is also grateful for sharing a wonderful meal as well.

While outside the house, Chito seems to be bothered on what he just heard.

Enrico
“I know it must be terrible for you after hearing that from the old lady.”

Chito looks at Enrico
“You speak like you aren’t affected with this at all?”

Enrico
“I am affected. More like I already knew everything before you did.”

Enrico explained about what happened on the confession hall at the church. He heard everything from Emily Ruiz herself. Or should he say Emily Nifrado.

Enrico
“It took me a long time to actually try to get used to that thought.”
“But the truth is I can never actually get used to something explicitly unbearable.”
“How shall I respond to this I ask myself? What should I do to ease her suffering if I can’t even resolve a painful past that is similar to mine?”
“That is why I decided to watch over her like a bodyguard in the shadows.”
“I won’t let other people like Jayson Nifrado take advantage of her once more!”

Chito acts like he is lost of energy
“I see.”
“I want to ask something.”
“What if I tell you that Jayson Nifrado and I are similar?”

Enrico Mildano looks at Chito with hateful eyes.

Chito
“You knew it all along right?”

Enrico Mildano
“I want to fight you Chito. I want to know if I can really hurt someone like you.”

Gregory Bitanez
“What the heck are you thinking? Don’t do it Enrico. This guy is too much.”

Chito and Enrico Mildano looked at each other with serious eyes.

Enrico Mildano
“Please fight me! I will kill you if you didn’t take me seriously.”

Chito stretches his arms
“Fine by me.”

Gregory Bitanez
“Don’t you dare hurt him Chito. If it is a fight you want then fight me instead.”

Chito practicing some punches
“You sure you want to do this?”
“I don’t hold back once I start raining punches on you.”

Enrico Mildano folds up his sleeves
“I have no problem with that.”

Chito wore those hateful eyes
“Well then, I will destroy you.”

The two rushed forward at each other.

Meanwhile, the sacristan Brother Wally is talking to Sunshine Diana at the church.

Diana
“You knew all along didn’t you? That those two, Enrico and Chito are after Ziela Mae right?”

Brother Wally
“Maybe. But I am not interested on who those kids lay their eyes on.”

Diana
“You also knew what will happen as well?”
“Chito won’t stay long on the church even it is for Ziela Mae. And it happened.”

Brother Wally
“Actually it was in the contrary. Chito surprises me a lot and I never imagined he can do well while he is here.”
“The way the kids miss him is a proof of it.”

Diana
“I see.”
“It was a valiant effort though. Chito never had a possibility to win Ziela Mae’s heart.”
“My vote is still on Enrico Mildano. For me Enrico is like an unpolished rock. Like a sapphire that is carrying a blue color hue. Calm and composed, cool and poised, that is Enrico MIldano.

Brother Wally
“My bet is on Chito. I think he will win.”
“For me, if you compare Chito to a rock. To me he is a ruby, a bright red colored jewel. Symbolizing power but also symbolizes compassion and sincerity. Just like a red rose of love.”
Diana
“You don’t know what Enrico Mildano been through.”
“The guy went through hell in his childhood days.”

Brother Wally
“And you don’t know what kind of hell Chito been as well.”
“Please don’t look at him like your usual snotty spoiled political brat.”
“He is never like that. Believe me.”

Diana sighs
“It seems we can never agree upon this one huh.”

Brother Wally
“Unfortunately, that I have to agree.”

Diana
“The real winner would be the one who will win Ziela Mae huh?”

Going back on the fight, Chito won against Enrico. Enrico’s is all beaten up as he lies down the ground.
Enrico felt so ashamed of his loss. Enrico is upset of himself for still being weak.

Chito presents his hand to Enrico while he kneels on the ground. Chito’s face has that expression of not being proud of what he did but rather he is relieved for teaching Enrico a lesson.
Enrico moved Chito’s hand away. Refusing any help coming from Chito.


Gregory Bitanez rushed to Enrico’s aid instead.

Chito is shocked with Enrico’s reaction.

Chito
“I understand. But do you feel any better now?”

Enrico
“I probably will never be better not until I get to overcome my weakness.”

Chito
“I see. So are you saying I am your next goal huh?”

Enrico
“You were never my goal from the start. I…. I didn’t have plans on fighting you either.”

Enrico remembers the days when Chito and Enrico team up. They have so much fun with each other.

Enrico
“It never occurred to me not once that I will fight against you.”
“Now that many people know what Ziela Mae is 3 years ago?”
“I just can’t let you handle things YOUR way.”

Chito did not speak a word.

Enrico
“Now I ask you one last time.”
“Please stay away from Ziela Mae.”
“Let me handle things from here on end.”

Chito remembers it as well when Enrico and himself teams up. There is nothing they cannot accomplish when they are together. Such as creating a theme park or organizing events. They were a force not created of fear but an influence that moves people on the Balthazar Street.

Chito
“I apologize, Enrico but I prefer to continue as well.”
“Hate me all you want but I that won’t change the fact that I wanted to help Ziela Mae.”

Enrico
“You don’t even know the feeling of a subservient! You only get to view the perspective of the manipulator.”

Chito
“Maybe but you are mistaken if you think I didn’t become the victim as well. “

Chito remembers what Raymond Ramirez just said. If he decides to stay away from Ziela Mae, that guy will lay his dirty hands on her.

Chito
“This conversation is meaningless. I will leave now.”

Enrico hates it that Chito walks away like it was nothing. Even if Christopher Larcon is stripped of his power as a Larcon, he is still influential as Master Chito.


>_< See you on Same People Yet Different Book 5