juan bantugan

The Chest of Kahimyangan

2009-01-07T13:06:00.002+08:00

The Chest of Kahimyangan has the Jewels of Kauswagan, Katuhayan and Kamurayaw. A komunidad or a lungsod that could get this chest would be able to achieve prosperity, order and peace.

Can Juan Bantugan help his beloved Lungsod han Bulawanongsirak get the Chest of Kahimyangan?

The Quest for Kahimyangan

2008-12-15T11:28:00.002+08:00

After Juan Bantugan succeeded in regaining the Statue of Kalungsuran he faces the challenge of acquiring the Chest of Kahimyangan. Will the Great Makagarahum grant him the strength and the grace to succeed in this new Quest? Will the katawhan of Bulawanongsirak support him in this endeavor?

The Quest of Kalungsuran: Epilogue

2008-12-12T11:06:00.002+08:00

As Apoy Lagas emphasized, the Statue of Kalungsuran is just a means - it was not the end. The statue was important in achieving the Chest of Kahimyangan - which contains the Jewels of Kauswagan, Kamurayaw and Katuhayan.

The success of Juan Bantugan and his friends - Lando, Gabriel, Ana and Rosa - in regaining the Statue of Kalungsuran has brought to the Lungsod of Bulawanongsirak a new beginning but it's just that - a new beginning. The still have to continue with their journey to seek for the Chest of Kahimyangan.

Will they be able to to succeed in this new endeavor?

The Quest for Kalungsuran: Chapter XVIII - The Beginning of a New Quest

2008-12-11T10:28:00.003+08:00

Apoy Lagas congratulated Juan and his four friends for their success in regaining the Statue of Kalungsuran for the Lungsod of Bulawanongsirak. The five youngsters were very happy too not because the people somehow recognized their effrots but because they were able to do something for the sake of their komunidad.

"Juan bantugan," Apoy Lagas said, "your name will surely be remembered just like what it truly means - bantugan, famous!"

Juan smiled shyly but deep within his joy was overwhelming.

"I just hope that this victory won't make your head grow so big," the old sage asid smiling. "Because as I have said before, the Statue is not the end, it is just a means."

Juan looked up to the sage.

"The most important thing to achieve is the Chest of Kahimyangan."

Juan said, "Does it mean we have to make another journey? A different quest?"

Apoy Lagas nodded.

"Yes, Juan, yes," he said. Because in this life we are always journeying, we are always on a pilgrimage. We cannot stop because the moment we do, we'll die. Only the dead stops journeying. While alive, people make quests. We cannot stop, we cannot be content with what we have been provided for. It would be a great insult to the Great Makagarahum, who until this very moment does his great work, if we will stop journeying. It may not be a journey of a thousand miles, but still we have to make a move.

"Being the pinili you are especially tasked to continue journeying. Your next quest will be the Quest for the Chest of Kahimyangan and along the way you will surely find so many challenges but as you have already overcome many challenges while seeking for the Statue of Kalungsuran, you will surely be able to voercome other challenges along your new journey."

"Oh yes, Apoy," Juan proudly answered. "I can do everything because the Great Makagarahum is with me and also I have you as a guide and my friends as partners in every endeavor."

Apoy Lagas smiled.

"Great remark, son," he said. "You will surely emerge victorious in whatever endeavor you undertake ebcause you know how to acknowledge the fact that your success was made possible because of others and not only through your own efforts."

As they continued discussing the next quest, the sun slowly receded to give way to the night. As the twilight sky exuded a wonderful view, Juan thought about the exciting new adventure that his friends will surely dare not to miss!

The Quest for Kalungsuran: Chapter XVI - The Statue of Kalungsuran

2008-12-10T10:06:00.003+08:00

Now that Juan Bantugan and his friends were able to overcome all the challenges, they were now free to regain the Statue of Kalungsuran.

The Statue of Kalungsuran was set atop a crystal pedestal. It looked very attractive to the eyes. Juan thought that it really was worth all the efforts. But then Apoy Lagas' words rang in his ear, "The Statue of Kalungsuran is not an end. It is just a means."

Juan moved closer to the statue. Then took it from the pedestal and put it into his backpack.

When he turned back, he saw some Magmarangnos behind the five of them.

"Congratulations," said the Chief Magmarangno. "You have earned your trophy. Now it is time to bring the Statue of Kalungsuran back to your komunidad so that your bungto could already enjoy more kapas and regain the status of a lungsod!"

Juan smiled and thanked the Magmarangnos.

The Chief Magmarangno said, "The Statue of Kalungsuran is a very coveted artifact. Many komunidads try to get it but somehow they fail because of so many factors. Now that you have successfully regained your own, it is up to you to maximize the benefits that it would bring to your bungto. Remember that the statue is not an end in itself. It is just a means, a way, an opportunity. You cannot just enjoy the kapas that it brings but you must exert effort to sustain the kapas and be able to generate your own so that your lungsod could achieve prosperity.

"And since the statue is just a means, it will help you to achieve something else. When you get back to your komunidad, you will be told about what will happen next."

Before they left the place the Chief Magmarangno reminded them, "Remember how you regained the statue. The same will show you your way!"

They nodded and left.

As headed to their komunidad, Lando said to Juan, "Now that we have passed all the challenges and we already have the Statue of Kalungsuran, would it be okay to discuss about how the people would be welcoming us?"

The other four looked at him with such look that seems to warn of trouble.

"Remember what the Magmarangnos told us," said Ana. "We can go home safely if we remain true to the values that we have learned while we are on our way here."

"Yes," seconded Rosa. "We should not expect for anything. We only did a task that is expected of us to accomplish. And most of all, the four of us don't even have the right to any recognition. It was Juan's task after all."

Juan replied immediately, "No. It is not my task alone. It was our task altogether. We all deserve any accolade. But I guess it would be great to just bring the statue back to the komunidad and let the people enjoy the kapas while we enjoy stories with Apoy Lagas!"

"Right," said Gabriel. "After all, we didn't do this in order to gain fame, power or fortune. we did this to help our bungto. At least we could share lots of stories with Apoy Lagas - which probably he could share to the next generations of young men and women of our place!"

"Oh well," Lando said somehow satisfied with what the others have said. "I guess we have to settle being characters of Apoy Lagas' fairy tales in the future. But wait, the Chief Magmarangno said that when we get back to the komunidad we'll be told of what will happen next."

Juan said, " Oh, probably it would be about taking a bath since we haven't touched water for a long period of time already!" Though in his mind he was already thinking about something else.

They all laughed and enjoyed the trip back home as if they only went on a picnic.

The Quest for Kalungsuran: Chapter XV - The Monster of Daghangpangita

2008-12-09T11:06:00.003+08:00

A few miles ahead the five friends saw the shadow of a giant monster.

"It's the Monster of Daghangpangita," said Juan Bantugan.

The other four quivered in fear knowing fully well that such a huge shadow could only be cast by an equally huge being. And as they watched the orientation of light, it seemed much bigger than they could imagine.

Then the ground started to shake.

"It is moving," cried Lando, "towards us!"

And the full size of the Monster of Daghangpangita appeared before them. It was about a hundred meters tall. It laughed and the mere sound of its laughter created a thunderstorm.

"We're doomed!" cried Ana.

"This journey is over!" said Gabriel

"What shall we do?" Rosa asked Juan.

Juan seemd to have been stymied. But then he turned to the four and said, "It's my fight. Take cover and pray for me!"

The four looked for some where they thought they could somehow be safe.

But they prayed hard for Juan to overcome the monster.

Juan stood his ground and cried aloud, "By the power of the Great Makagarahum, I summon the Spirit of Pangita to help me in this fight!"

From the thunderstorm created by the laughter of the Monster of Daghangpangita lightning struck Juan and bright colored light engulfed him. But the Spirit of Pangita seemed to be very weak in the face of the monster.

"It's not working," Rosa said. "The Spirit is much weaker than the monster!"

"Let's pray harder," cried Ana.

Juan knew that he could not rely on the Spirit of Pangita. He had to use other emans to defeat the Monster of Daghangpangita.

The monster pounded on him and he barely missed the huge fist that created a fissure on the ground. Juan remembered the Spear of Gugma. He cried to Gabriel who was holding the spear.

"Gabriel, give me the spear!"

Gabriel threw the spear to him. Juan was able to grab it and escape safely before the foot of the monster stepped on the rock he was standing on.

Then as the monster tried to pound him again with its close fist, Juan rolled and upon standing took a prayerful shot to the right eye of the monster. The shot was made with all his remaining strength and it hit the mark.

The monster got hurt so badly that it trashed and tried to hit everything on its path. The five friends held on to whatever they could hold as the monster became very violent. Then when it pounded the ground mightily because of the pain that Juan has done to it, the ground opened and swallowed the monster. After the monster fell into the deep, the ground closed again.

His friends were overjoyed by Juan's victory. Juan on the other hand thanked them for pryaing for him. They gave thanks to the Great Makagarahum.

As they were leaving, the ground shook once more. They thought that the monster might have returned but only a small opening in the ground appeared - just enough to let the Spear of Gugma fly back into the hands of Juan.

The Quest for Kalungsuran: Chapter XIV - The Monster of Haluagkatunaan

2008-12-08T09:27:00.003+08:00

The Arrows of Pagtoo disabled the Horde of Lungsods but the real challenge was waiting for Juan Bantugan already: the Monster of Haluagkatunaan.

It was a challenge that he must face alone. His four friends bid him good luck.

Juan replied, "This is not a matter of luck anymore. This is a real fight!"

As Juan was walking towards the monster, the Horde and his friends waited for what will happen. The Horde were hoping that the monster would defeat Juan while his friends prayed hard that Juan would overcome the monster.

The Monster of Haluagkatunaan was so dreadful. It was about thrice the size of a normal adult and since Juan was not that full grown man yet, it was somehow four times his size. The Horde thought that the sheer size of the monster would discourage the youngster already. But Juan showed no fear. He knew that somehow he had nothing to fear about the monster.

Apoy Lagas told him this, "The Monster of Katunaan will not be so hard to defeat. Just rely on your knoweldge about your komunidad and on your faith."

At last, Juan and the monster were now face to face. The monster tried to instill fear in Jan by gnashing his teeth which sounded very horrible and by showing the sharp nails on his fingers which could cut Juan into small bits with just one stroke!

Juan stood his ground and then cried to the monster, "In the name of the Great Makagarahum and the katawhan of Bulawanongsirak, I order you to stand back and let me pass through!"

The Monster of Haluagkatunaan laughed horribly.

"Show me that you deserve to pass through me!" the Monster replied. "I bet you already know the rules."

Juan concentrated well and cried, "By the power of the Great Makagarahum, I summon the Power of Katunaan to give me the strength I need to face this Monster!"

Juan became engulfed in a mist of various colors. Everybody waited for what happened to him. Then when the mist subsided the Horde and the Monster were astounded while the friends of Juan were overjoyed.

Juan grew bigger than the monster. It only showed that the Power of Katunaan which Bulawanongsirak possesses was much greater than that of the monster.

Instead of Juan surrendering the fight, it was the monster who turned back and bothered no more the five friends in facing the next challenge.

The Quest for Kalungsuran: Chapter XIII - The Horde of Lungsods

2008-12-05T10:45:00.004+08:00

Juan Bantugan and his friends were overwhelmed by the mere view of the Horde though it was still far away. The horizon was thick with black armor and it only showed that their number was so numerous and could not be counted.

"They are so many, Juan" Lando said. "How are we going to fight them?"

The other three waited for what Juan will say. They could not find any word to say.

Juan shook his head.

"No," he said, "we won't have to fight them all."

Gabriel looked at him, "How will the battle takes place then?"

Juan answered, "they don't fight through face to face combat. They would just field the Monsters and see how we could overcome them. If we defeat the Monsters, we shall be able to pass through them."

Ana said, "But Apoy Lagas said we also have to face the challenge of the Horde aside from the Monsters!"

Juan tried to remember how they would face the Horde. Then Rosa cried, "Look at the Bow and Arrow!"

The Bow of Paglaum and the Arrows of Pagtoo were shining.

Juan exclaimed, "I have to use these against the Horde."

The four wondered how the limited number of arrows could be used against a numerous Horde.

Juan took one arrow and took aim above.

"For the glory of the Great Makagarahum and our komunidad of Bulawanongsirak!" he said.

As he let go of the arrow, it soared into the sky and when it fell down upon the Horde the arrow already was as numerous as the sands at shore.

The Quest for Kalungsuran: Chapter XII - The Caves of Kaandam

2008-12-04T11:14:00.003+08:00

The cave was full of precious stones, gems and jewels.

The group forgot about what they were looking for and started emptying their backpacks and putting every precious thing they could get into their empty bags.

They were about to fill up their bags when Rosa stumbled upon what she emptied out of her bag. It was something that Apoy Lagas told her about to be a very important artifact much more important than all the riches in the world. It was an engraving of her when she was still a baby.

Rosa then realized they were not doing the right thing.

"Wait," she cried. "Something is wrong."

Lando asked, "What's wrong?"

"We are here to look for the Sacred Kasadangan," Rosa replied, "and not to get precious stones."

Gabriel answered back, "Yes. But can't we do some 'shopping'? After all, it's Juan's tas to look for the artifacts. Perhaps we could get some of these and bring them home."

"This is not why we are here for," Rosa said. "We entered this cave to help Juan to get the sacred artifacts of Kasadangan."

Ana said, "You're right. We're becoming greedy. We are becoming selfish."

Juan bowed his head, "And I am once again forgetting my purpose in making this journey. Perhaps I am not really fitted to become a pinili. I always fail."

Rosa approached him and said, "No, Juan. You're still fit to be a pinili because you always realize your faults. The really unfitted is the one who cannot accept his failures."

Everybody seemed to have been awakened from their foolishness.

Juan looked around.

"Where could the Sacred Kasadangan be?" he asked. "All I see are jewels and precious stones!"

Rosa picked up her bag and emptied it of precious stones. The others followed. Juan was hesiatnt but he did it just the same. Then they all told themselves they were misbehaving again.

Suddenly the cave was emptied of all the precious stones and jewels and at the center of it Juan saw the gleaming artifacts of the Sacred Kasadangan.

And the Magmarangnos of the Sacred Kasadangan appeared one by one.

The Chief told Juan, "Remember, Juan. It is not perfection that made you become a pinili. It is the readiness to accept failures and make the corresponding changes. Perfect persons are not actually fit to become pinili because there's no room for change in their hearts and minds. It is the weak who has the opportunity to become strong and the lame who could finally walk straight. So be steadfast and just hold on for you have more challenges to face.

"And always remember that this journey is not a personal one. It is for a noble purpose and with others who care for you!"

The Quest for Kalungsuran: Chapter X - The Mountains of Kabaskog

2008-12-03T10:06:00.002+08:00

Juan was soon at the top of the Mountains of Kabaskog. As he was about to get near the Sacred Sinagmiton, the earth trembled and soon portions of the ground started crumbling. Soon Juan discovered he was standing along a crater of a volcano with the Sacred Sinagmiton on the midst of it and slowly going down into a lake of fiery fire.

Lando, Gabriel and Rosa were trapped in a crevice when the ground shook and portions of it sunk. Only Ana was near enough Juan to help him from falling into the fiery lake.

“Come on,” said Ana. “Hold my hand.”

Juan thought Ana could not handle his weight. He thought she was not that strong to save him from falling. Little by little the rock he was holding on to broke. In a few moments he would fall down into the crater.

Juan realized that he only had one chance to survive and that is to trust Ana. With a strong move he held on to Ana's outreached arm and Ana with all her remaining strength tried to raise Juan from the side of the crater. Soon enough Ana was able to save Juan.

Juan was so sorry he didn't trust Ana earlier. It could have been a lot easier for her to save him because she was much stronger then.

"Ana," Juan started, "I am very sorry I did not trust you. I thought you were weak. I tried to save myself."

Ana smiled.

"It's alright," she said. "It's your second nature, boys and men, not to rely on girls and women. But you know what? We could do so many things better than you. Though I must admit there are things that we could not do better than you do, too."

Juan hugged Ana as a sign of gratitude.

Then they turned to the other three to save them from the crevice.

But they were surprised to see that they were already standing behind them. The ground was whole again and the lake of the fiery fire was gone. The Sacred Sinagmiton were at the center of a brightly lit stone table surrounded by a garden full of roses.

One by one the Magmarangnos of the Sacred Sinagmiton appeared to congratulate Juan for his success.

“You really deserve to become a pinili,” said the Chief. “But you still have one more challenge to overcome. May the Great Makagarahum lead and bless you.”

And Juan and his friends once again continued the journey.

The Quest for Kalungsuran: Chapter VIII - The Plains of Kauray

2008-12-02T10:38:00.005+08:00

Juan Bantugan and his four friends - Lando, Gabriel, Ana and Rosa - started their quest for the Statue of Kalungsuran that morning. Apoy Lagas saw to it that they had all the necessary provisions for the journey to the Plains of Kauray, the are where Juan could find the Sacred Kasul-otan.

...

The plains seemed to be an endless wilderness. Not even a single tree could offer a shade from the burning heat of the mighty sun that was so painful to the skin.

Juan wondered if he could really find the Sacred Kasul-otan in this desolate place. He wanted to return to the comforts of their home. But is it fair enough to the katawhan to do it? And what about his four friends who are with him? They believe in him and are so full of confidence that he would be able to regain the statue for Bulawanongsirak.

At that moment he thought about success. If he could only get back the Statue of Kalungsuran then he would be popular. Of course, his katawhan would not be that greedy to deny him the benefit of fame. After all it is he who is the chosen hero, the pinili, to bring back the coveted Statue of Kalungsuran – an artifact that would bring enormous opportunities to his bungto and greater benefits to their katawhan.

He imagined himself being warmly welcomed by the katawhan as he rides upon a float and being paraded around the bungto with ladies and girls showering upon him confetti of fresh and fragrant flowers. Then the punoan and the Council of Kamagurangan came endowing him recognition and awards while the wealthy katawhan give him gifts.

And of course his companions would share his glory!

That point in time, he realized that the burning heat of sun started to cool down and the blue sky slowly turning gray. Soon it was already very dark and the night seemed to be slowly inviting him to sleep.

Then he felt someone waking him up as if from a very deep sleep.

It was Lando.

"Juan," he cried. "You're halucinating!" But his voice seemed to be lightyears away and Juan could not understand a word he said.

"He is feverish," said Lando to the other three.

"He is undergoing a challenge," said Ana. "We must help him or else he might fail."

Juan, in his dream state was now looking for a comfortable place to lay his head and sleep.

Gabriel got something from his backpack.

"Apoy Lagas gave this to me," he showed the artifact to the others. "He told me to use it when Juan's losing his consciousness already."

He lighted the artifact and blew the smoke into Juan's nostrils.

"It's the smoke of reality," said Gabriel.

Juan in his dream state suddenly seemed to have been awakened and slowly he saw the sky returning to its bright azure color and the sun warmly piercing his skin.

"Whatr happened?" as he looked around and sdaw the four ogling at him.

The four explained everything to him. Juan realized what Apoy Lagas told him that he needed all the help that he could get. Being a pinili does not make a person immune from failures.

"Gosh!" he said. "I almost fell asleep in my dream. It was very inviting nighttime there."

"If you slept, then you would have failed the first challenge," Rosa said. "What was it by the way?"

"Oh," Juan said. "I was already enjoying the taste of victory."

And he told them everything.

"So," Gabriel said after he finished, "you think we are not worth sharing in your glory?" Somehow ther was pain in his voice.

Juan immediately answered, "Of course I did but it was a challenge that I had to overcome. The important thing really is that whatever we would be able to accomplish it is not for our personal glolry but for the sake of our bungto."

He looked at the four, "I am sorry if I thought that I am the only one who deserve any accolade. I have realized that without you, I can do nothing ... really. And more importantly, we are just instruments - we are here to accomplish something for the komunidad and not to become famous for anything!"

At that moment they felt the ground shake.

And from beneath the ground a settlement rose up. People in white robes came out to meet them. The village chief came upon him and congratulated him for passing the first challenge.

The chief heralded Juan to a room and he was given the Sacred Kasul-otan.

“Remember, keep these vestments pure so that you would be able to overcome the next test and get the Sacred Sinagmiton.”

And as Juan continued his journey the settlement vanished once again from the face of the Plains of Kauray never to be seen again until the appointed time.

The Quest for Kalungsuran: Chapter VII - The Quest Begins

2008-11-28T13:52:00.003+08:00

Juan Bantugan woke up early that morning. He was scheduled to leave for his quest that day. Upon waking up, he looked for Apoy Lagas at once. He couldn't find him inside the house so he went out to see his four friends waiting for him.

"Hey!" he exclaimed,. "What are you doing here? Aren't you forbidden to visit this place anymore?"

Lando answered with a big grin on his face, "My parents told me that I could follow you if I want it. I told you, they would rather have me out of the house because it would save them some sanity!"

"And what about these three?" Juan pointing to Gabriel, Ana and Rosa.

"Oh," answered Rosa, "they won't mind at all if I go with you as long as I could show them I learned from this experience. You see, my parents don't believe in fantastic things. So they thought we were merely playing and that you were just overly zealous about the Statue-thing. They won't miss me if I go for a few days as long as I return with some good news."

"My parents wouldn't mind me gone too as long as I could memorize those tables, graphs and the other what-nots that my father call 'scientific' and 'advance'," said Ana. "That's why I broguht along with me some of those."

Everyone's eyes focused on her big backpack.

Gabriel who was also an orphan like Juan said, "Well, got nothing else to go to but to where the action is, you know it."

Juan wanted to discourage them to accompany him. For him it would only mean having to think of their safety and that could divert his attention from his goal. He looked at Apoy Lagas to help him explain to the others that it was not just a game they would be joining in.

Apoy Lagas instead said, "Thank you for volunteering your services."

Then he looked at Juan saying, "Just like I said, Juan, anyone who wishes to join you in this quest is very much welcome. And don't argue anymore. You'll understand why having companions is important in this quest. Although I agree that someone might become a burden in the most important moment of the quest, there would still be a good outcome for any trouble. So I guess we all have to prepare ourselves to start the quest."

Juan looked at Apoy Lagas, "Did you say 'ourselves'? Are you going with us?" He was hopeful that the sage would say yes because he thought that would make the quest a lot easier.

Apoy Lagas turned to him and said,"Of course I would be journeying with you. But in some other way. I am forbidden to tell you how am I going to accompany you in this quest."

When Juan showed some sadness about what he heard, the sage said, "But always remember, I will be with you every step of the way."

The Quest for Kalungsuran: Chapter V - The Council of Kamagurangan

2008-11-27T13:11:00.002+08:00

As Juan expected, Leo had already caused a commotion among the katawhan about his claim of being a pinili to accomplish the task of regaining the Statue of Kalungsuran. As he walked on his way home every eye was on him. As he entered their house, his uncle grabbed him by his wrist and forced him to a corner.

"Haven't I told you that Apoy Lagas is but a legend and that he doesn't exist?" his voice was low but Juan knew he was just trying to restrain his voice to keep their neighbors from hearing him talk about Apoy Lagas. "But you insist on your foolish dreams. Now the Council of Kamagurangan might call us and make me answer to what you have been telling the other kids!"

"I am sorry, but," Juan tried to explain himself but his uncle gave him no chance.

"Stop it!" he said. "Stop such foolishness. Now when the Council calls us and asks you about Apoy Lagas and that task to seek for the Statue of Kalungsuran, tell them it was just a joke, that you were just playing a game with your friends. And nothing more."

Juan didn't know what to say.

"Do you understand me, boy?" the uncle reiterated.

Juan wanted to rebel against being tagged as a 'boy'. He was already thirteen and soon to celebrate his fourteenth birthday. He is a young man already. A young man who could prove his worth if ever he gets that statue for his komunidad.

His uncle would have demanded his expected answer from him if somebody did not knock on their door.

His uncle opened it and saw guards sent by the Council of Kamagurangan standing outside. They had a scroll where it was written that the Council was summoning Juan for questioning. Being a minor, the uncle ought to accompany him.

His uncle looked at Juan as if trying to say that he should behave at the Council, that is, to say only what his uncle told him to say.

Upon arrival at the Council Room's gate, the katawhan who were milling around tried to get near Juan but the guards ably warded them off. Some of the katawhan just wanted to make fun of Juan's claims, while some wanted to know if he really seen Apoy Lagas, but most wanted to harm him for starting a panic about Apoy Lagas and the task of regaining the Statue of Kalungsuran.

His friends and their parents and elders were already in the Council Room. There were also other katawhan there but they were more behaved that the katawhan outside. They were members of the upper class and were privileged to hear the Council during their meetings.

Juan and his uncle were brought to the seats provided for them. After a while the crier announced the entrance of the members of the Council of Kamagurangan and everybody stood up.

The lead magurang motioned for everyone to sit down and called for order.

The crier announced the matter at hand.

"This meeting has been called for by the Council of Kamagurangan in order to clarify the following matters:

1) Whether or not the claim of the boy Leo, son of Tomas and Evita, that he heard Juan Bantugan, here accompanied by his uncle Gardo for being an orphan, as trying to encourage his friends, who are also here now, about Apoy Lagas and Juan's claim to be a pinili, is true;

2) What possible penalties are to be meted out to whoever fails to support their claim."

Leo was called first to clearly tell the kamagurangan about what he heard. He was able to repeat word for word the things that Juan told his friends.

Gardo looked at Juan. But Juan did not return it. He was immersed on his thoughts about what Apoy Lagas told him earlier. That this is the very first challenge he had to face.

"The Council records the claims of Leo. Now the Council wants to hear the side of Juan," announced the crier.

Juan stood and placed himself on the seat provided at the center of the Council.

His friends looked at him with eagerness as to what he would say.

Will he admit to what Leo divulged or deny them?

Juan took a very deep breath and with such courage said, "I did say those things, your honors."

His uncle almost jumped at him but the guards were very quick to restrain him. The katawhan who were present whispered to each other. The parents and elders of Juan's friends said to one another, "this boy is a bad example to our kids!"

But his friends admired him and they showed it by smiling heartily at Juan. Leo smiled as if savoring victory. He was already imagining what penalties would be imposed upon Juan.

The lead magurang called for order. When the whisperings subsided, he called upon the members of the Council to their secret chamber. After a while, the kamagurangans emerged smiling, with some shaking their heads.

The katawhan wondered why the kamagurangans seemed to be happy when they ought to be angry!

The lead magurang called on the crier. The crier showed surprise when he heard what the magurang has to tell him. He even tried to ask for clarification but he was reminded that he was just a crier and he had to announce what is told of him.

The crier then cleared his throat and in a loud voice said, "The Council of Kamagurangan summarily dismisses the case. The Council believes that it is but a kind of make-believe game that these youngsters play!"

He paused for a while. The lead magurang looked at him intently, so he continued, "no penalties are to be imposed ..."

The katawhan reacted to the announcement and it seemed they would become unruly.

"But," the crier continued, "the kids are prohibited to visit the old house at the outskirts of the komunidad until such time they are old enough to understand that Apoy Lagas is a mere figment of imagination and that the quest for the Statue of Kalungsuran is lodged on the punoan alone!"

The case would have been closed if Juan did not stand and cried, "Apoy Lagas is not just a figment of imagination! He is true!"

Silence ruled the room.

The lead magurang became serious. His previously cool countenance became warm and he was getting red. The other members of the council also got angry for Juan's behavior. They thought that their generous dismissal of the case would have stopped the boy from testing their patience. Juan's uncle knew that this was bad for Juan, and probably to him.

The lead magurang spoke up.

"Gardo," the magurang said, "you know what will happen now. As the guardian of this boy, you will have to take full responsibility for his behavior and that means you - for his being a minor -have to bear the punishments that are supposed to be imposed on him. Or else, you have to disown him and set him free so that we could banish him from this komunidad so that his lies could no longer damage the minds of other kids!"

Gardo didn't know what to do. When Juan's parents died years ago, he was the one who reared the boy being the brother of the boy's mother. He loved the boy so much but he seemed to be unprepared to suffer in behalf of the boy. But what will happen to Juan if he disowns him?

Juan knew what his uncle was going through and so he said, "Disown me, uncle. It is okay. I understand. Someone will take good care of me in the wilderness."

Juan's friends cried knowing fully well that it would be hard for someone to live in the wilderness especially for a young boy. But Juan looked at them and shook his head somehow telling them not to worry about him.

The lead magurang, with a booming voice said, "I understand that the silence of Gardo means he is unwilling to suffer for the kid. Guards, bring the kid outside of the gates of the komunidad and let him suffer being banished from his katawhan for his misbehavior!"

Then silently he continued, "and in case Apoy Lagas really exists, may he guide and protect you in the wild!"

The Quest for Kalungsuran: Chapter IV - The First Challenge

2008-11-26T11:45:00.003+08:00

Juan Bantugan was just a kid and being so, he was not able to fully restrain himself from telling his bestfriend about his task.

"Great!" exclaimed his friend, Lando. "Oh, Juan, let me accompany you. I want to be able to do something also for our komunidad."

Juan thought Lando was joking.

"It's a perilous journey, Lando," you can't be serious about it. And I doubt it if your parents would allow you to join me in fulfilling this task."

"Oh, they don't really care so much about me," Lando said. "They would even think it best that I be gone for a while, or even a longer time, for that would save them some sanity. They always tell me I am such a headache, you know!"

Juan smiled.

"But Lando, this is not a vacation, nor a mere trip to the fields. This is a dangerous journey to regain the Statue of Kalungsuran and I have to face challenges and Monsters and more!" Juan tried hard to instill fear on the mind of Lando so that he would refrain from his request of accompanying Juan.

Actually Juan would welcome Lando's going along with him on this journey. It would be less burdensome, he thought. He won't have to be alone and lonesome. But would Apoy Lagas allow him to go with someone else? Or is the quest a personal task that cannot be shared to others?

"Lando," Juan started as he wanted to explain to his bestfriend that Apoy Lagas might not allow him to have a companion in accomplishing the task. "This is an important quest and I am not sure if I would be allowed to have a companion. I would have to ask Apoy Lagas if it's okay for you to go with me."

Lando reiterated his request by saying, "Oh, Juan, this task is for all of us. I believe Apoy Lagas would agree with me that all the help you could get would be welcome."

"Okay," said Juan. "We'll see Apoy Lagas and ask him about this."

As they were on their way to the house of Apoy Lagas their other friends saw them.

"Hey," cried Ana. "Going to Apoy without us?"

Since the time they discovered that Apoy Lagas lived in the house in the ouskirts of their komunidad and heard his various stories about the beginnings of their world, the things around them and the komunidad in particular, they would always go as a group and leave no one behind. Hence Juan was not able to say anything in response to Ana's question.

"Maybe they are hiding something from us," said Rosa.

"Oh, come one, Rosa," said Gabriel. "They won't be doing anything like that." Then he looked at the two. "Or are you really up to something, huh?"

Juan and Lando looked at each other.

Lando spoke before Juan could open his mouth.

"Alright, we're going to Apoy Lagas to aks him if I could go along with Juan ... "

Their three friends waited for him to finish what he was about to say.

But Lando seemed to have forgotten what he wanted to say and looked at Juan as if asking him permission to tell the three about the task.

Juan breathed deeply then said, "Okay, listen. I have something to do for our komunidad and lando wants to accompany me. We are going to ask Apoy Lagas if it is possible for me to take along Lando as a companion."

He thought that settled everything. But of course he also thought that the three would possibly be asking more questions. So before the three could even open their mouths he told them, "and it is such a dangerous task so I do hope you won't ask to go along with us too because I don't want you three to be in danger."

But the three chorused in reply,"Of course we won't like to be left behind!"

Juan thought he was already in trouble. Apoy Lagas told him not to tell anyone about his task.

"But it's about a quest to get the Statue of Kalungsuran!" he exclaimed. "You don't have to be involved in this. It's a dangerous task."

From behind them they heard some laughter. They looked behind and saw the gang of Leo.

"Juan is going on a quest to recover the Statue of Kalungsuran?" he querried and then laughed heartily. His gang followed suit. "Are you out of your mind? Even our punoan and the members of the Council of Kamagurangan are having difficulty in regaining the statue and you think you could do better than them?"

Lando felt insulted in behalf of Juan and so he cried aloud, "Of course Juan could do it! Apoy Lagas chose him to do this task!"

Juan thought he was in a big trouble now that the gang of Leo knew about his task. Not that he thought that the katawhan would seriously consider whatever this young boys would tell them but that it would mean their elders would now limit their activities and prohibit them from going to the outskirts of the komunidad anymore.

The katawhan do not believe that Apoy Lagas really exists. For them he is just a figment of imagination. That he probably existed long ago and now is a mere myth. They could only see his house on the outskirts of the komunidad as a dilapidated hut. It is only the group of Juan who could see that the house is a mansion with a very wide and fully furnished interior.

Leo and his gang laughed the more.

"You are all crazy!" he cried. "You are all disillusioned. Apoy Lagas does not exist. Or perhaps, he exists in your imagination and you are all imagining that you could do something to get the Statue of Kalungsuran and become famous for it. Ha! Fools."

Then he turned to his gang and said, "Come on, let us tell the whole komunidad about this foolishness so that they would be castigated and forbidden to go outside of the village already! They are bad examples to other youngsters!"

Lando looked at the others. He realized his mistake. The three wanted to blame him but Juan immediately spoke, "It's all my fault. No one else should be blamed."

"You better go home now, friends," he said with sadness in his voice. "I'll just tell you what Apoy Lagas would tell me."

"But," said Rosa,"you'll be in a lot of trouble when you return from the house of Apoy Lagas."

"It's okay," Juan said. "I can handle everything. But you must already go home and try to appease your elders before everything goes out of hand."

Lando was tearful.

"Don't cry, fatboy," said Juan, smiling. "You'll still have the chance to go with me, I suppose."

He was thinking that if Lando's elders finally hear about the "task" and Apoy Lagas, they would get so angry with him they would send him out of their house. And he won't have any choice but to let him accompany him.

But would his elders in the first place allow him to go?

Apoy Lagas knew upon seing the sad countenance of Juan that something was wrong.

"I blew it, Apoy," said Juan.

The sage nodded as if he already knew what happened.

"Then you have to face the first real challenge," he told Juan who wondered what the sage meant by saying that. "The katawhan would laugh at you and consider you foolish. Then you will be faced with the question, 'Is this right? Do I really have to do it?" Or perhaps you would have this question, 'Is this for real?'"

Juan could not look at the sage. The old man understood that Juan probably was already entertaining such thoughts.

"It is really hard to do something great without being thought of as a fool," Apoy Lagas said. "Many katawhan who could have been great leaders and elders failed to attain their place in history and in this life because they failed to face the challenge of 'sanity'. They thought that the majority of the katawhan have to be listened to more than a lonely sage.

"I would understand it if you decide to give up at this stage," the sage said with sad but firm voice. "But then, you would be failing not only the very katawhan who would consider you foolish just because they could not understand the mysteries of life. You will be failing yourself more.

"Would you like living the rest of your life thinking about what you could have done and did not do it when you had the chance?"

Juan slowly raised his head and stared at the sage.

Silence ruled for a while.

Then he opened his mouth and with some conviction asked Apoy Lagas.

"Could Lando go along with me in my journey?"

Apoy Lagas' eyes glared. Juan could not really see whether it was because the sage had tears or that he just simply appreciated his decision.

The sage answered, "all the friends who wish to come along with you, Juan. This task is not for you alone. As I told you before, everyone ought to face this challenge but only a few take the opportunity."

The Quest for Kalungsuran: Chapter III - The Armor of Pagdarag-an

2008-11-25T13:10:00.005+08:00

Juan Bantugan could not understand why Apoy Lagas thought it was better that the katawhan do not know about his task. He was wondering how he would be able to get support from them if they do not know his mission. More so, how would they know that if ever he succeeds that he was the one who was instrumental in getting back the Statue of Kalungsuran to the bungto?

Juan also was very apprehensive about these discussions with Apoy Lagas. The old sage was a mysterious man and nobody seems to know about him except himself and a few of his friends. Maybe that is why Apoy Lagas does not want anybody else to know about this task because it is all a joke. It is but a dream and perhaps he need to awaken now.

Juan slapped himself and he felt pain.

Apoy Lagas looked at him, smiling.

“So you think everything’s just an imagination,” the sage stated. It was not a question. Juan thought that the sage could perhaps read his mind.

“I cannot exactly read what’s in your mind,” the sage said as if he really could read what’s going on in the mind of Juan. “But I can understand what you’re thinking through your actions and the contortions of your face.”

Juan tried to put a blank expression on his face.

Apoy Lagas laughed a little.

“You see,” he started. “There are many things in this life that cannot be explained. There are also things in life that however you explain they cannot be understood especially by those who do not have the gift of understanding mysteries, or perhaps they are just too preoccupied with mundane things hence cannot decipher the deep realities of life.

“Not many people would be able to understand why you became a pinili, Juan. For them, even to yourself, you are but a child, someone who is still weak, too young, and with little knowledge and most of all lacking wisdom. To many you are just a child who have to immerse yourself in studies, housework and play. To them you are not even capable of contributing one wise idea or suggestion. You are inexperienced, naïve and unlearned.

“How would they accept it then that you became a pinili? They would laugh at you, especially if you tell them that it was Apoy Lagas who brought you to that secret room to pass the challenge of the Crystal of Kapinili. Not everyone even knows about the crystal in the first place, and not many would believe in its power to choose a hero. For many the Crystal of Kapinili is nothing but an artifact, for others just a mere myth. Our katawhan got used to the process of choosing our leaders and elders through pinili-ay wherein they themselves gather and elect the punoan and the members of the Council of Kamagurangan. But they no longer believe in the power of the Crystal of Kapinili.

“Juan, that is one of the reasons why I told you that the katawhan need not know about your task, that you have been chosen to be a hero – a pinili. But that is not just the sole reason, there is one more very important reason.”

Juan asked curiously, “What is it?”

“To keep you humble,” Apoy Lagas said. “Being a pinili most of the time brings along with it the vice of pride. Many pinilis before you have failed their tasks because of pride. Humility is one thing that keeps a person from bragging about his worth and humility keeps him from failing.

“A proud person cannot accept defeat that is why he goes on fighting not for the sake of his task anymore but for the sake of himself and his personal honor. But the humble person could accept personal defeat but fights on for the sake of his task. Though he knows he has limitations, he overcomes these limitations for the sake of accomplishing his task. Hence, he overcomes his weaknesses and achieves his goal.

“Along the way as you try to fulfill your task you will face many troubles and challenges. But you will not be alone. Just like what I’ve said, the Great Makagarahum is always with you. Many fail to succeed because they fail to acknowledge and recognize the role of the Great Makagarahum in their lives and in the fulfillment of their tasks. But if you remain humble, then you will recognize that your efforts are always supported and assisted by the Great Makagarahum.

“And He will concretely manifest himself through the Armor of Pagdarag-an.”

Juan got very interested once again.

“What is the Armor of Pagdarag-an, Apoy?”

“It is a set of protective gear and weapons that you could use to face the enemies and the challenges,” answered the sage.

“How am I going to get these,” Juan inquired excitedly.

“The Armor is distributed among three regions and guarded by chosen Magmarangnos.

“The first set of the Armor are the Sacred Kasul-otan and composed of the Robe of Kaputli, the Belt of Karig-onan, the Wristbands of Kaabtik, the Sandals of Kamatahom and the Cape of Kamalumo. They could be found in the Plains of Kauray.

“The next set of the Armor are the Sacred Sinagmiton and composed of the Arrows of Pagtoo, the Bow of Paglaum, the Spear of Paghigugma, and the Sword of Kamapintas. These are in the Mountains of Kabaskog.

“The last set of the Armor are the Sacred Kasadangan and composed of the Helmet of Kinaadman, the Breastplate of Kamatuoran, and the Shield of Katadungan. These are in the Caves of Kaandam.

“In order to get the Armor of Pagdarag-an you will have to undergo various challenges that will test your worthiness to become the pinili.”

“Wow!” Juan exclaimed. “This task really is something.”

“It is not just something, it is the very thing,” said Apoy Lagas. “Many people just don’t give importance to it. Though everybody is supposed to be face these challenges, only a few dare to do so and a lot fewer emerge victorious.”

Juan thought about how he would be able to get the Armor of Pagdarag-an. It would seem to take him to conduct a journey.

Apoy Lagas knew about what he was worried about and told him, "Just always remember that the Great Makagarahum is with you in everything that you do. He won't fail you if you just keep steadfast in your trust in Him."

The Quest for Kalungsuran - Prologue

2008-11-24T10:42:00.001+08:00

It was in the first year of the third period of the Punoan's reign that the Statue of Kalungsuran - an important artifact which brings faster acquisition of great benefits to a komunidad which possesses it - was granted to the Bungto of Bulawanongsirak. That was a cause for great jubilation among the people because it would mean the enjoyment of the blessings of more Kapas - energy that could be used to fuel activities - and bring prosperity to their Katawhan, as their people are called, and the Katawhanonan, other peoples, within the vicinity of their Lungsod.

But their jubilation was short-lived as representatives of the Horde of the Lungsods - the league of komunidades that have already acquired their Statues of Kalungsuran - went to the Court of the Kamag-araman - the council of wise men or sages who have advanced knowledge of the laws of the land - to petition that the Statue of Kalungsuran that was granted to them be taken back because the granting of the statue together with the increase in its Kapas was detrimental to their people because that would mean their Kapas would lower. They contended in their petition that the bungto - a lower level of komunidad with lesser Kapas - did not pass the challenges of acquiring the Statue of Kalungsuran hence the granting of these and the increase in Kapas were against the Batakanbalaud - the fundamental law of the land upon which all other laws and decrees are based - that keeps the Nasud - the Empire of Sidlangan - strong.

The Punoan - chief of the komunidad - together with the members of the Council of Kamagurangan - village council or council of elders - tried to show that they were able to meet the challenges required to be granted the statues. They showed that they were able to face the Monster of Haluagkatunaan and that having overcome this monster they need not face the Monster of Molupyokadamuan.

The only problem that seems to be blocking their retention of the statue was that they only faced the 20-meter tall Monster of Daghangpangita. While they were already passing through the various challenges, the Council of Katigurangan - the lawmaking council of the Nasud - decided to field in a bigger Monster of Pangita which now stands at 100 meters tall instead of the previous 20 meter-monster. Admittedly, the new monster was a bigger challenge to overcome than the previous one. After some deliberations, the Council of Katigurangan decided that Bulawanongsirak could face the smaller Monster of Daghangpangita, but the Horde contested the decision saying that it was against the Batakanbalaud.

Hence the initial decision of the Court of Kamag-araman was to uphold the petition of the Horde. In the meantime, the Statue of Kalungsuran was taken away from them until such time that Bulawanongsirak is capable of passing the challenges required.

While the Punoan and the Council of Kamagurangan continued their fight for their komunidad's right to regain the statue at the Court of Kamag-araman, their people slowly felt the troubles of losing the Statue of Kalungsuran. The Plague of Kapobrehan started to crop up again. The health workers were unable to ward off the Attacks of Kasakitan and the vanguards of peace had less capabilities to fight off the Gangs of Kasamukan. Those who till the soil and those who fish at sea encountered Kawarayan once again.

In the midst of all these, Apoy Lagas, a mysterious old sage living in the environs of Bulawanongsirak, believed that something could still be done to regain the Statue of Kalungsuran for the Komunidad to acquire more Kapas again to fight off these menaces. But it is only possible if someone accepts the responsibility of facing the challenges required to get the Statue of Kalungsuran.

Could that someone be Juan Bantugan?

To be Continued

The Quest for Kalungsuran: Chapter II - The Task of Juan Bantugan

2008-11-22T13:12:00.005+08:00

Juan tried very hard to understand what Apoy Lagas was talking about. To him, possessing the Statue of Kalungsuran was just some goal which so many Bungtos wanted to achieve. But for what reason he was not fully aware of yet.

"In time you will understand, really understand," Apoy Lagas told him. "As of now you must realize that your future and the future of your friends and the other children who will come after you is at stake."

"What is so important with the Statue of Kalungsuran, Apoy Lagas?" Juan asked the old wise man.

"Actually it is a source of more strength, inspiration and opportunities to attain the Jewels of Kauswagan, Kamurayaw and Katuhayan which will enable one to possess the Chest of Kahimyangan," Apoy Lagas said. "It is not of course impossible for a mere bungto to possess the Chest of Kahimyangan but having the Statue of Kalungsuran somehow makes the process faster because of more Kapas. For many years getting the Statue of Kalungsuran depended on the will of the previous Emperor but when the Revolution of the Katawhan took place years ago and freedom was regained by our Katawhan, and a new decree - the Kodigo han Komunidades - was passed by the Council of Katigurangan and became the basis of how the Statue of Kalungsuran would be gained."

"How does a bungto gains the Statue, Apoy?" asked Juan.

"The bungto, represented by a chosen hero called the Pinili, must be able to overcome challenges in accordance with the provisions of the Kodigo han Komunidades. These challenges gauge the readiness of the bungto through its pinili. The hero must fight at least two Monsters - the Monster of Daghangpangita and either of these two: Monster of Haluagkatunaan or Monster of Molupyokadamuan.

"The Monster of Daghangpangita must be overcome by the pinili through the Power of Kabuhisan, and this power comes from our katawhan. The Power of Kabuhisan refers to the energy gained by the katawhan through various buruhaton and karidodigo conducted by our katawhan. Unless our katawhan gives the pinili this much needed Power of Kabuhisan he would not be able to overcome the Monster of Daghangpangita.

"The Monster of Molupyokadamuan on the other hand must be overcome by the Power of Kadam-an which refers to the power generated by the number of our katawhan. The more katawhan a komunidad has, the greater the power to overcome this Monster.

"The Monster of Haluagkatunaan can be defeated by the Power of Kahalaparan. The wider the area of a komunidad the greater the power that its pinili could muster against this Monster."

"How do the challenges take place?"

"The pinili must face two Monsters, first, one of the Monsters of Molupyokadamuan or Haluagkatunaan, and then the Monster of Daghangpangita. As for Bulawanongsirak, the pinili would have to fight the Monster of Haluagkatunaan and the Monster of Daghangpangita. Through the powers that I have mentioned to you the hero could overcome these monsters, easily if the pinili's powers are much greater the monters' or with relative difficulty but usually still in the favor of the pinili if the power is equal to that of the monster's. The problem is when the Monster has more power than the pinili for it will surely lead to failure," Apoy Lagas clarified.

"But how could the pinili get these powers?" Juan asked.

"These powers are concentrated in something which I cannot divulge. But such powers are infused upon the pinili when he is chosen and given the task to fight the Monsters. There is but one simple challenge to know whether the person is equal to the task," Apoy Lagas.

"What is it," Juan seems to be curiously interested.

"Hmm, I just want to tell you first that when the pinili is on the path towards the goal of being chosen he must show calmness, courage and faith that he is not on his own but under the guidance of someone Greater - the Makagarahum."

"Ah, alright," said Juan though he was not so sure about what he said. He only wanted to satisfy his curiousity.

Apoy Lagas looked at Juan. Then he motioned to him to follow into a room. Juan eagerly abided. He was really interested about knowing how the pinili would be chosen.

The room they entered into was dimly lit. There was something at the center which looked like a ball of glass.

"That," Apoy Lagas told Juan, "is the Crystal of Kapinili."

Juan's eyes glinted as he stared upon the shining fragile object.

"How does it work, Apoy?" he inquired.

"Simple," the sage said with a small and mysterious smile on his face. "But it is forbidden to tell anyone lest he discovers how to circumvent the process."

He was so immersed now in looking at the crystal that he seem to forgot everything else when he asked, "Can I hold it, Apoy?"

To which the sage simply answered, "why not? Everyone can hold it. Just be careful not to drop or break it."

Juan started to get closer to the crystal. It was so dim he could not make out what he was stepping on. Then he felt something slithering.

"Snakes!" he cried.

He tried to step on plain floor but the snakes seems to be everywhere. He started to panic but when he looked at Apoy Lagas he saw that sage's countenance as if he was trying to say "keep calm". Then from somewhere in his mind he heard a voice saying, "the pinili must be calm, courageous and full of faith."

Juan's eyes glowed and enlarged. But before he could think of anything he saw the Crystal of Kapinili in front of him already. It seems to be inviting him to hold it. And as normal as any other young man when in front of something that they wanted to behold, he touched it, and held it on his hands. Suddenly the room got filled up by lights of various colors. They were intense but cool upon the senses. Juan looked around and looked at Apoy Lagas who seems to be enjoying the experience.

Then Juan felt that he was bitten by a snake.

With a loud thud the crystal fell on the floor.

"Noooooooooooooooo!" Juan cried aloud.

Apoy Lagas was soon standing behind him.

"Don't worry, the crystal ball goes back to its original shape after one hour as if nothing happened ..." he paused and scanned first the floor if there were broken pieces of the crystal ball on it. He smiled with victorious satisfaction when he noticed no trace of any broken crystal, and then continued,"... unless it stays whole up to this time."

Juan who had his eyes shut for fear that he broke the crystal glass slowly opened his eyes and saw to his surprise that it was still whole. He was able to breathe again. But he wondered why a material so fragile would not be broken with such a big fall. He then thought, "that's why there was just a thud but not a crash!"

"The chosen one has to hold it and keep it from breaking," said Apoy Lagas. "Interestingly, though, even if he drops it it won't be broken if he is really the chosen one. So the real challenge really is to drop it as soon as possible to know whether one is chosen or not."

"Right," replied Juan matter-of-factly.

Then again his eyes widened. And when he looked at the sage, he felt some fear.

"Juan," Apoy Lagas said while putting his hands upon the lad's shoulders. "Maybe it is not yet clear to you but the Crystal of Kapinili has spoken."

Juan could not believe it, "you don't mean it. It's just a joke, isn't it? I was just trying to ask you about how the pinili would be chosen. I am but a kid!"

He was very restless.

"Well," Apoy Lagas said trying to calm Juan down. "It is up to you to accept the task or not. But the crystal has spoken. You see, youth is not just a preparation for adulthood. It is also an opportunity to show one's worth. One could be a leader, could be an elder, could be hero - a pinili - at any time in his life. Everyone has his role to accomplish in this life, some discover it when they're already old and after so undergoing so many experiences in life. Others while they are still in the prime of their lives. But for some, it comes early. You are one of those who are given the chance to make a difference in this world. Would you rather waste it, or face it?"

Juan was speechless. He even seems to have forgotten how to move when Apoy Lagas led him out of the room already.

"But then," he asked Apoy Lagas, "would our katawhan accept the fact that the Crystal of Kapinili has chosen me to be the pinili?"

Apoy Lagas smiled and seemed very sure when he said, "They don't have to know."