...
Under the shade of the tree on the hill, I could see Leon standing with a little girl who was practicing martial arts. It was my first time taking a walk after Leon found me in the river.
As I walked, I could hear the sound of the grass rustling, the birds chirping, and the gentle flow of the river. The surroundings were filled with a peaceful ambiance.
Leon called out to me from a distance, "Come here, Hanz."
"This is Jane, my granddaughter," Leon introduced.
"Hello, I'm Hanz," I greeted Jane. Turning to Leon, I asked, "What brings you two here?"
Leon began sharing his story, "I was one of the pioneering students of my father, the great grandmaster of 'Kali.' It was a practice of self-defense during the time of Japanese colonization in the Philippines. Back then, Filipino people didn't have enough weapons to fight back, so they used sticks, knives, Itak, and even farm tools as their weapons. Now, Jane is the one who will carry on the tradition and keep Kali alive."
Inspired, I turned to Leon with determination in my eyes. "Leon, can you teach me too? Make me your disciple, Master."
Leon burst into laughter. "Why are you laughing, Master? I'm dead serious," I questioned.
Son," Leon said with a smile, "I know someday you will seek revenge against those bastards who tried to kill you. Martial arts is just an art. If you're truly serious, I can train you to become a better fighter, but only if you promise to take good care of my granddaughter for the rest of your life."
I fell silent, realizing the weight of Leon's condition. Taking care of Jane, a girl who was not only physically strong but also incredibly beautiful, seemed like a daunting task. The thought of leaving her after returning to my own place left me uncertain about my future.
"Okay, okay. Tomorrow, be ready. You aren't fully recovered yet, but I'll teach you the basics," Leon agreed. "But remember, the condition still stands. No turning back. Because before long, I'll leave this place and find peace elsewhere."
Jane, such a lovely girl, possessed a deceivingly innocent face that hid her strength. At just twelve years old, she was already skilled in using "Arnis," a martial art that originated in the Philippines and involved using two wooden sticks for attack, defense, and disarming techniques. As the sun descended, painting a beautiful scene on the horizon, we began our journey back home, engaging in conversation that left smiles on our faces.
Leon welcomed me with warmth, reminding me of the debt I owed him. Though I couldn't repay him yet, I vowed to express my gratitude for his kind heart in the future.
Suddenly, I awoke from a nightmare, gasping for breath. Jane had woken me up, concerned about my distress.
"Thank you, Jane. You can go back to your room and rest now," I reassured her, still shaken.
Jane hugged me tightly and said, "You'll be alright, Hanz. We're here for you."
After the unsettling dream, I found it difficult to calm my racing thoughts. Sitting on the edge of the bed, I felt a comforting presence beside me. It was Jane, looking at me with wide, caring eyes.
"Hanz, um... would it be okay if we sleep together tonight?" she asked, her voice filled with innocence and vulnerability.
Surprised by her request, I blushed, feeling a mix of nervousness and warmth. "Of course, Jane," I replied softly, my heart fluttering at the thought of sharing this intimate moment with her.
We nestled under the covers, side by side, creating a safe haven within the confines of the bed. The room was filled with a gentle silence as we both lay there, our hearts beating in harmony. The innocence of the night enveloped us, casting a soft glow over the room.
As we settled into the embrace of the night, I couldn't help stealing glances at Jane, captivated by her genuine beauty and the purity of her soul. She returned my gaze, a faint smile dancing on her lips, as if understanding the unspoken emotions that passed between us.
In that moment, time seemed to stand still. The weight of the world lifted, and the only thing that mattered was the connection we shared. Our breathing synchronized, creating a soothing rhythm that whispered of comfort and trust.
As we drifted off to sleep, a sense of tranquility settled over us, wrapping us in its tender embrace. In the peacefulness of that night, we found solace and reassurance, knowing that no matter what the future held, our friendship would endure.
And so, with dreams weaving their way into our slumber, we found warmth and contentment in the innocence of the night, cherishing the precious bond that had blossomed between us.
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