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This light novel is inspired by the beautiful landscapes and cultures of Bolivia and South Korea. However, the characters, events, and situations portrayed are entirely fictional. Any resemblance to real persons, places, or events is purely coincidental. This content does not intend to represent or reflect the historical, social, or cultural reality of either country. The author disclaims any legal liability arising from the interpretation of these elements.
Chapter 25.1 Shared Journal
7/9/2025
Zayra. -
I still remember that day at the assembly. It was the first time I saw you handle a situation with so many conflicting voices.
I'm not exaggerating when I say I was surprised by the way you maintained order and managed to get everyone to listen.
Your voice stood out without needing to force itself on anyone.
That day, I was left with some questions about certain words I heard and didn't fully understand:
camba, colla, avasallamiento, bloqueos, menonitas, and others that were mentioned.
I'd love for you to explain their meaning when you have time.
–
***
7/9/2025
Ryu. -
I can't believe it! I had completely forgotten about that day.
I was so focused on speaking for the community that I didn't even realize it had surprised you.
Now that you mention it... I'm a little embarrassed, I admit.
Actually, that day Yandé had a sore throat and asked me to speak in his place.
So I ended up there, with the microphone in my hand. For me, it wasn't anything new.
I was already used to it from my years of study, but this time was different.
It wasn't an exercise or an academic simulation.
It was real life, with my people, with my community.
And I confess that I enjoyed it more than any classroom, because I was defending something I love with all my heart.
And well... now I find out I had that effect on you. What a pleasant surprise.
Of course, I'll explain those words to you.
You'll keep hearing them again and again if you join me for more meetings or assemblies.
And I don't want you to get lost. So get ready, because I'm going to give you my own version of the "Zayra glossary."
I promise it will be more fun than reading a boring office manual.
Glossary
Camba
Camba is the word used to identify people native to or living in the eastern part of Bolivia.
It refers to people from the departments of Santa Cruz, Beni, Pando, and Tarija.
Colla
Is used to identify people from the Andean region of Bolivia, which is the western part.
This includes the departments of La Paz, Oruro, Potosí, Cochabamba, and some areas of Chuquisaca and Tarija.
(Be careful don't say this word if you don't know how the one listening to it feels.)
land invasions
Illegal invasion of land.
It happens when a group of people takes over a piece of land, whether it's private property or a state-protected area.
This is a serious problem in Bolivia, it's a crime and often causes conflict.
Road closures
Are a very common form of social protest in Bolivia.
They consist of closing roads, highways, or bridges to block vehicle traffic.
They are done to pressure the government or other authorities to respond to certain demands.
The blockades are sometimes temporary, but they can last for several days.
Mennonites
The Mennonites are a religious group that lives in closed communities.
They originated in Europe and in Bolivia live primarily in the department of Santa Cruz.
They are known for their traditional lifestyle, their rejection of modern technology (like cell phones, television, and cars),
and their dedication to agriculture and livestock farming.
Abarcas
In Bolivia, abarcas are a type of traditional footwear.
They are a kind of sandal, often with a rubber or leather sole and cloth or leather straps.
They are sometimes also known as "ojotas" or "fukutas" in some regions.
Well, those are the words. I hope my explanation was helpful.
Zay. -