Post by Chris Santiago on Jan 10, 2019 16:00:33 GMT -5
January 7, 2019
Chris’s Provincial House in Laguna
3:46 pm
Outside the fields of Laguna, Chris wearing a casual t-shirt and slacks picked up a stone. He chose an area he designated. As he has selected a place, he pressed it to the ground and stroke continuously drawing a big circle. He thickens the lines of the shape to get easily recognized. Once he finished, he threw the object off the ground.
Chris entered the circle and faced his training partner, Serena wearing a black t-shirt and baggy yellow pants. Both were barefoot standing in the ground of soil, rock, and dirt. They smirked at both of them wanting to test their strength and skill. Meanwhile, Paco went out of the house to breathe some fresh air. As he finished sniffing the aroma of nature, he noticed both of them in their fighting stance.
“Nay, si Kuya Kris!” Paco shouted.
Chris’ mother showed up to see what the commotion is all about up. Paco pointed out of them. She replied, “Hayaan mo sila, Paco. Nagenensayo sila para sa nilalapit nilang laban.” (Leave them alone. They are just training for the upcoming match.)
Chris’ mother went back to the house while Paco stayed put and watched. Back to the makeshift circle, Chris and Serena in their fighting circle smiled at each other. Their language was clear. They should not hold back. As Chris bent his head, Serena knew what it is. Sparring starts now. They encircled around at each other inside the drawn area. Seconds later, they reached their hands pointed towards them. It was a test of might, catch wrestling. They were about to engage, until someone screamed, “Huy!”
Someone halted their session. It didn't come from Serena nor Chris nor Paco nor their mother.
“Ano ginagawa ninyo at bakit kayo nakapaa? Lumalaban ba kayo?” (What are you doing and why are you both barefooted? Are you two fighting?)
“Lolo Tasyo!” Paco rushed towards the old man with a cane on his hand.
“Wala po, lo. Nagenensayo kami para sa nilalapit na laban sa Amerika.” (Nothing, sir. We’re just practicing for our match in America.)
The old man nodded, but his eyes looked suspicious. He then examined the circle they were standing. “Nagenensayo ba kamo? Eh nakatayo kayo sa bilog. Ano ito, sabungan?” (Is that so? You two are standing in the circle. What is this, cockfighting?)
The circle did look like they were in the cockfighting. However, it was a custom to them back in 2015 where Chris as his previous persona fought in the same mannered area. As for the Lolo Tasyo, he began to spew criticism on Chris regarding his stance. “Ikaw, lalaki. Kung magenensayo ka para sa iyong laban, bakit hindi mo sinugod agad? Matatalo ka sa ginagawa mo.” (Boy. If you’re training for your match, then how come you didn’t charge right away? You will lose if you keep it that way.)
Both Chris and Serena looked at each other raising their eyebrow. What does he mean? Why should he charge right away? The old man shook their head and went on his way. He began to chatter how kids today didn’t know how to fight correctly. “What was that all about?” Serena asked.
“Old age, I guess,” Chris answered. While he scoffed off the old man’s criticism, Serena was interested. It was like he hides a pearl of secret wisdom regarding combat. Nevertheless, they decided to continue. Few hours of the session later, both of fighters covered themselves with dirt and sweat. There was a pond nearby to clean themselves off. They planned to bathe themselves there.
January 8, 2019
12:30 pm
Chris and Serena arrived via tricycle up to the city place where modern vehicle crowded the street roads as people in Laguna. They went shopping in a marketplace. However, they only have a limited time to do it so. Chris’ mother will leave to Manila at 5:30 pm for Translacion. Someone needs to guard their house while she’s gone.
Hours of shopping later, Chris and Serena have bought nothing but vegetables, fruits and other ingredients for dinner. It must be Serena’s turn to cook. Now that both were done shopping for today. They have decided to go back, so Serena holding a bag of groceries commanded Chris, “Call a tricycle. We should go home before your mom leaves.”
Chris nodded and went on his way with groceries burdening him. In the middle of people roaming about, Serena noticed a store where it displayed some poorly published books in a rack. For some people, books are out of trend due to technology. Also, its appearance wasn’t appealing to them. But Serena’s curiosity pushed her to come in. She loves books after all.
She came into the store and much to her surprise it was filled with topics about Philippine History. She didn't know the story of the Filipino people. Now she began to take an interest. She noticed a unique book in a storage rack. Yao-yan – The Art of Death Dance.
She picked the old books and skimmed it. It was about a martial arts originated from the Philippines. She thought that it was interesting. She looked back to the rack. Arnis – The Way of the Bolo, Tribal Philippine Wrestling, The Art of Philippine Martial Arts. The store was getting interesting for Serena. That was until a voice called her.
“Good afternoon, can I help you?”
Serena flinched and looked behind her. She was indeed surprised. The one who greeted her is the old man she suddenly met, Lolo Tasyo. “It’s you!” Serena exclaimed.
“Wait a second. You are that foreigner affiliated with that kid.”
“Yes, I was with him,” Serena answered. It was fascinating that for an old native like him can speak English. She began to ask about the book, “Did you write this by yourself?”
“I’m the one who wrote that. I published it in my own hands. I wrote originally in Tagalog, but anyone has no interest in buying it. Luckily, my young daughter is here. She knows how to translate into the English language. So almost everything here is translated in a foreign language.”
“That was nice,” Serena commented. “Your topics were pretty much interesting.”
“People seldom shopped here. The last foreigner who went to this place was probably two years ago.”
Serena nodded. Speaking of martial arts, she asked. “Anyways, the last we meet, you like to point Chris about something. What was it? I’m quite interested to know.”
“This would be a long explanation. We’re going to close this shop.”
Serena has to come up with something. That was until she realized that she held a bag of groceries. “Ah! How about you should come to dinner tonight and discuss this over. We need your expertise for his match.”
The old man paused for a while. “Sure, I’ll try.”
Serena looked back to the rack. She picked some of the books there and handed it to Lolo Tasyo. “Also, I would love to buy these, please.”
Finally, another customer in a store! It brought joy to the old man. “300 pesos per each.”
Chris’ Provincial House
6:30 pm
It was Serena’s turn to cook for the meal. She was not alone for another young woman assisted her in the makeshift kitchen. Lolo Tasyo sat on a rocking chair probably taking a nap. Once they finished preparing, they set up a dinner with plates along with its cutleries. They added up the rice at the center of the table. Also, the main course of the meal, Pork Nilaga.
The woman woke the elder up to join in for dinner. Serena sat along with the woman and Lolo Tasyo. Now Serena hasn’t forgotten what Ms. Simmons taught her the manners here in the Philippines, wash hands and pray. She already washed her hands, so they proceeded with the thanksgiving prayer. Then they dig in.
They enjoyed the pork soup meal in the night. While the soup has pork, it also has saba banana slices, potato cubes and the vegetable for tonight, pechay. It was warming and nutritious. All the sudden, two boys entered the house. It was Chris and Paco, returning from fetching their mom to the bus terminal. Chris was surprised that the old man was here. As for Paco, he was hungry. So he was relieved that someone cooked for dinner.
“Uy, Nilaga. Kain ko diyan.” (Wow, Nilaga. Let me join in.) Paco said as he grabbed a plate and its cutleries. He was about to take a nibble, but someone won’t let him. “Maghugas. Magdasal!” (Eat first, then pray!) Lolo Tasyo scolded. Paco was startled and intimidated by elder’s disciplinarian voice. So he did what the old man commanded.
Meanwhile, Chris decided to sit on the wooden sofa to rest. Serena saw Chris sitting there so she called, “Chris, aren’t you going to eat?”
“Later, I’m just exhausted.”
“Kung magpapahinga ka, bakit hindi ka kumain dito?” (If you are going to rest, then why aren’t you joining us to eat?) Lolo Tasyo questioned him. Chris sighed. He wanted to resist, but he had to respect the elder. He left with no choice to follow them as well. Chris was about to take a nibble until the elder scolded him. “Maghugas. Magdasal.”
Chris stood up and did what the old man told. He washed his hands on the sink and went back to his table. Now that he can eat for dinner. “Magdasal!” Chris shook his head and did the sign of the cross and pray. He tried to contain himself not throwing any tantrums. Now that he did everything that Lolo Tasyo commanded, he can now proceed for his dinner. However, the elder didn’t appreciate the sentiment Chris showed to him.
“May problema ka ba? Di mo ba nagugustuhan ang niluluto ng kaibigan mo? Magpasalamat ka at pinaghandaan ka ng pagkain para sa iyo!" (Is there a problem? Didn’t you like what your friend cook for you? You should be grateful that she prepared this for you!) Lolo Tasyo replied in a harsher tone.
The woman scolded her father for his brash behavior. Paco kept his mouth shut and focused on his meal. Serena began to worry that it may not go well. Chris was about to throw a fit at the old man for acting like a father to him. However, he can’t do it. He didn’t want to embarrass her mother nor his friend there. So he answered, “Patawad po. (Forgive me, sir.)”
Serena was relieved that the crisis averted. The five of them enjoyed dinner in peace except for Chris because his resentment towards Lolo Tasyo slowly grew. Now that they’ve done eating their meal, Serena and Chris decided to wash the dishes together. Paco went out to breathe some fresh air while the woman was busy entertained his father. As Serena and Chris finished, Chris decided to make some coffee. But Serena told him to provide for the guests. And so he did.
Now the coffee was served for the three of them. Serena was not keen to drink caffeine at night nor the old man’s daughter. Four people were sitting on the wooden table while Paco was on outside enjoying his coffee at the cold night. Serena started with her agenda with Lolo Tasyo, “So Lolo Tasyo, I want to know about what you have said last time.”
It was about his critic against Chris’ fighting style. “The best defense is offense.” Lolo Tasyo said in the rough English accent. “The one being charged always has the disadvantage in a fight. So when there is an opponent, attack before they can make a move. That’s what Napoleon Fernandez said. Power shouldn’t be used against power. But rather, the opponent’s power should be used against him/her.” The elder quoted that straight the mentioned figure.
“Interesting, so who’s Napoleon Fernandez?” Serena asked.
“He’s the originator of a martial arts called Yaw-Yan. I was one of his students back then.” Lolo Tasyo added. The daughter added, “My father studied martial arts during his 20’s. He learned not only Yaw-yan from his master. He also learned Dumog, Eskrima and Gun-slinging from around the world.”
“That was fascinating!” Serena exclaimed. “No wonder that you have written so many books!”
“Just as I said earlier, I’m the one who wrote those books. My daughter, Isidra translated them.” The elder reminded her.
“So you’re Isidra?” Serena looked at the daughter which she nodded.
Serena came up with the idea. “This is perfect, can you teach us some of the moves you’ve learned? We need someone with high expertise for the upcoming match. Right, Chris?”
Chris didn’t respond like he was hoping that the old man refuses.
“You can come with us to America if you want to,” Serena added.
“What?” Chris was shocked by Serena’s offer to Lolo Tasyo. Isidra was awestruck because she is curious about living in America. Lolo Tasyo was flattered but hesitant, “This is too much. We might be a heavy burden for you.”
Serena, being confident in her finance told him, “Don’t worry, I will pay for your troubles if you want.”
Lolo Tasyo was pleased. It was Isidra’s dream to live overseas. However, if Lolo Tasyo's job was to train Chris, then it posed as a challenge. He glanced at the young man beside him. “This could be a challenge. But sure, we’ll go.”
Isidra shouted with joy and Serena was glad that the elder accepted her proposal. Meanwhile, Chris was upset. He protested about this. However, Serena did this for Chris’ skills to improve, and for her to learn new things. Suddenly Paco eavesdropped both of them and entered.
“Teka lang, paano ako? (Wait a second. What about me?)”
January 9, 2019
3:54 pm
Serena, Chris, and Lolo Tasyo stood outside the house where the elder taught younger students some of its basic moves in martial arts especially 45 “Yaw-Yan” kicks and bolo punches. The 12 “bolo punches” were consist of variations of hammer and back fists. After that, Lolo Tasyo taught the basic patterns derived from different moves itself.
Their learning session ended at night where Isidra cooked dinner for the five of them. Their learning session ended at night where Isidra cooked dinner for themselves. Chicken adobo was the meal of today. They have enjoyed the poultry that being marinated with vinegar, soy sauce, garlic, and black peppercorns. Lolo Tasyo thought that the meal was good for Chris and Serena. The food was a good source of protein, an essential nutrient needed for his upcoming match. Paco asked about this Chris after their hearty meal. “Oo pala, kuya. Sino ba ang makakalaban mo sa Katorse?” (By the way, brother. Who are you fighting on the 14th?)
“Yung babaeng mayabang.” (An arrogant girl,) Chris replied.
“Weh?! Kailan ka pumapatol sa babae?” (Since when do you start picking with girls?)
“Ganon talaga sa Amerika. May mga babae na pumapatol sa lalaki, at siya talaga ang nangunang pumapatol sa akin.” (That’s how the way it is in America. There are women who picked on men. Also, she’s the one who started it.)
Other than that, Chris said no more. True to Nikki’s word from her promo. She attacked his sparring partner causing a domino effect. His sparring partner Draven hates him. The members of the gym hate him, and now something horrible must have happened to him.
“Nikki should pay for this.”
January 10, 2019
8:35 am
“Bilisan mo, Kris!” Lolo Tasyo shouted like a military chief towards Chris pulling off some combinations of kicks and strikes to Serena. The objective was for Chris to go offense in which he disagrees. While Serena was on defense, Lolo Tasyo didn’t like the sloppiness of Chris’ movement. “Oy, oy, oy! Bumabagal ka na, ang sabi ko bilis!”
Chris was still on trance, so Lolo Tasyo cut in. “Hoy gising! Bingi ka ba? Sabi ko bilisan mo! (Hey wake up! You are deaf? I said go faster!)”
Chris shook his head and began to rebut. “Di ako makakaisip na maigi kung sumisigaw ka po!” (I can’t concentrate if you keep yelling!)
“Dami mong reklamo! Bibilisan mo lang.” (Quit complaining! I’m asking you to go faster.)
“Pero sumusobra ka na!” (But you have gone too far!) Chris lashed out shouting at the elder. Serena’s instinct kicked in and rushed towards him convincing him to stop.
“Hindi ka ba tinuro ng magulang mo na gumalang sa nakatatanda sa iyo, bata ka?” (Didn’t your parents taught you to respect your elders, boy?) Lolo Tasyo slowly stepped in confronting the young man.
“Hindi sa di kita nirerespeto. Sa pagsasanay namin, hindi sumisigaw ang mga tagasanay.” (It’s not that I’m disrespectful. In our training, coaches don’t shout at their trainees in anger.)
Lolo Tasyo shook his heads seeing the flaws of his former teachers. “Kaya pala malamya ang mga kilos mo. Dahil ang mga tagasanay ay hindi tumuturo ng tamang disiplina!” (So this is why your movements were weak. It is because your coaches didn’t teach you the right discipline!)
Those words spat on Chris’ face. His indignation can’t hold longer. Chris engaged but Serena restrained him. Paco and Isidra saw this and joined the commotion as well. Paco helped Serena to keep Chris in control while Isidra stood on his father’s side. Chris shouted at him. “Bawiin mo! Bawiin mo ang mga salita mo!” (Take it back! Take it back what you just said!)
The confrontation went personal and intensified. The elders had enough of his garbage coming from his mouth. So he shouted at the top of his lungs. Everything came into a halt. He looked at Chris’ furious eyes. Chris pointed his fighters towards the elder, “Wala tayong mapupunta sa pag-away na ito. May tatlong araw pa tayo bago ang sagupaan at hanggang ngayon hindi pa ako gumagaling!” (This fight isn’t going everywhere. We have three days before the fight yet I haven’t improved!)
“Bitawan niyo ako!” (Get off of me!) Chris pushed Serena and Paco off. The blonde woman couldn’t believe it like he was changed. “Laban ko ito kaya sasanay ako mag-isa!” (This is my fight, so I’m going to train alone!)
Chris walked off resolving himself to go another direction. Paco ran towards him trying to calm Chris. Lolo Tasyo shouted at him, “Hangal!” (Fool!) It seemed that Chris didn’t care. Later the elder predicted the outcome of Chris’ match to Serena. “This is not good. His stubbornness will be the end of it. He will not win the upcoming match for sure.”
The old coach’s prophecy terrified Serena. It based on his expertise and probably his experience. The coach really knows what he was saying.
Chris’s Provincial House in Laguna
3:46 pm
Outside the fields of Laguna, Chris wearing a casual t-shirt and slacks picked up a stone. He chose an area he designated. As he has selected a place, he pressed it to the ground and stroke continuously drawing a big circle. He thickens the lines of the shape to get easily recognized. Once he finished, he threw the object off the ground.
Chris entered the circle and faced his training partner, Serena wearing a black t-shirt and baggy yellow pants. Both were barefoot standing in the ground of soil, rock, and dirt. They smirked at both of them wanting to test their strength and skill. Meanwhile, Paco went out of the house to breathe some fresh air. As he finished sniffing the aroma of nature, he noticed both of them in their fighting stance.
“Nay, si Kuya Kris!” Paco shouted.
Chris’ mother showed up to see what the commotion is all about up. Paco pointed out of them. She replied, “Hayaan mo sila, Paco. Nagenensayo sila para sa nilalapit nilang laban.” (Leave them alone. They are just training for the upcoming match.)
Chris’ mother went back to the house while Paco stayed put and watched. Back to the makeshift circle, Chris and Serena in their fighting circle smiled at each other. Their language was clear. They should not hold back. As Chris bent his head, Serena knew what it is. Sparring starts now. They encircled around at each other inside the drawn area. Seconds later, they reached their hands pointed towards them. It was a test of might, catch wrestling. They were about to engage, until someone screamed, “Huy!”
Someone halted their session. It didn't come from Serena nor Chris nor Paco nor their mother.
“Ano ginagawa ninyo at bakit kayo nakapaa? Lumalaban ba kayo?” (What are you doing and why are you both barefooted? Are you two fighting?)
“Lolo Tasyo!” Paco rushed towards the old man with a cane on his hand.
“Wala po, lo. Nagenensayo kami para sa nilalapit na laban sa Amerika.” (Nothing, sir. We’re just practicing for our match in America.)
The old man nodded, but his eyes looked suspicious. He then examined the circle they were standing. “Nagenensayo ba kamo? Eh nakatayo kayo sa bilog. Ano ito, sabungan?” (Is that so? You two are standing in the circle. What is this, cockfighting?)
The circle did look like they were in the cockfighting. However, it was a custom to them back in 2015 where Chris as his previous persona fought in the same mannered area. As for the Lolo Tasyo, he began to spew criticism on Chris regarding his stance. “Ikaw, lalaki. Kung magenensayo ka para sa iyong laban, bakit hindi mo sinugod agad? Matatalo ka sa ginagawa mo.” (Boy. If you’re training for your match, then how come you didn’t charge right away? You will lose if you keep it that way.)
Both Chris and Serena looked at each other raising their eyebrow. What does he mean? Why should he charge right away? The old man shook their head and went on his way. He began to chatter how kids today didn’t know how to fight correctly. “What was that all about?” Serena asked.
“Old age, I guess,” Chris answered. While he scoffed off the old man’s criticism, Serena was interested. It was like he hides a pearl of secret wisdom regarding combat. Nevertheless, they decided to continue. Few hours of the session later, both of fighters covered themselves with dirt and sweat. There was a pond nearby to clean themselves off. They planned to bathe themselves there.
January 8, 2019
12:30 pm
Chris and Serena arrived via tricycle up to the city place where modern vehicle crowded the street roads as people in Laguna. They went shopping in a marketplace. However, they only have a limited time to do it so. Chris’ mother will leave to Manila at 5:30 pm for Translacion. Someone needs to guard their house while she’s gone.
Hours of shopping later, Chris and Serena have bought nothing but vegetables, fruits and other ingredients for dinner. It must be Serena’s turn to cook. Now that both were done shopping for today. They have decided to go back, so Serena holding a bag of groceries commanded Chris, “Call a tricycle. We should go home before your mom leaves.”
Chris nodded and went on his way with groceries burdening him. In the middle of people roaming about, Serena noticed a store where it displayed some poorly published books in a rack. For some people, books are out of trend due to technology. Also, its appearance wasn’t appealing to them. But Serena’s curiosity pushed her to come in. She loves books after all.
She came into the store and much to her surprise it was filled with topics about Philippine History. She didn't know the story of the Filipino people. Now she began to take an interest. She noticed a unique book in a storage rack. Yao-yan – The Art of Death Dance.
She picked the old books and skimmed it. It was about a martial arts originated from the Philippines. She thought that it was interesting. She looked back to the rack. Arnis – The Way of the Bolo, Tribal Philippine Wrestling, The Art of Philippine Martial Arts. The store was getting interesting for Serena. That was until a voice called her.
“Good afternoon, can I help you?”
Serena flinched and looked behind her. She was indeed surprised. The one who greeted her is the old man she suddenly met, Lolo Tasyo. “It’s you!” Serena exclaimed.
“Wait a second. You are that foreigner affiliated with that kid.”
“Yes, I was with him,” Serena answered. It was fascinating that for an old native like him can speak English. She began to ask about the book, “Did you write this by yourself?”
“I’m the one who wrote that. I published it in my own hands. I wrote originally in Tagalog, but anyone has no interest in buying it. Luckily, my young daughter is here. She knows how to translate into the English language. So almost everything here is translated in a foreign language.”
“That was nice,” Serena commented. “Your topics were pretty much interesting.”
“People seldom shopped here. The last foreigner who went to this place was probably two years ago.”
Serena nodded. Speaking of martial arts, she asked. “Anyways, the last we meet, you like to point Chris about something. What was it? I’m quite interested to know.”
“This would be a long explanation. We’re going to close this shop.”
Serena has to come up with something. That was until she realized that she held a bag of groceries. “Ah! How about you should come to dinner tonight and discuss this over. We need your expertise for his match.”
The old man paused for a while. “Sure, I’ll try.”
Serena looked back to the rack. She picked some of the books there and handed it to Lolo Tasyo. “Also, I would love to buy these, please.”
Finally, another customer in a store! It brought joy to the old man. “300 pesos per each.”
Chris’ Provincial House
6:30 pm
It was Serena’s turn to cook for the meal. She was not alone for another young woman assisted her in the makeshift kitchen. Lolo Tasyo sat on a rocking chair probably taking a nap. Once they finished preparing, they set up a dinner with plates along with its cutleries. They added up the rice at the center of the table. Also, the main course of the meal, Pork Nilaga.
The woman woke the elder up to join in for dinner. Serena sat along with the woman and Lolo Tasyo. Now Serena hasn’t forgotten what Ms. Simmons taught her the manners here in the Philippines, wash hands and pray. She already washed her hands, so they proceeded with the thanksgiving prayer. Then they dig in.
They enjoyed the pork soup meal in the night. While the soup has pork, it also has saba banana slices, potato cubes and the vegetable for tonight, pechay. It was warming and nutritious. All the sudden, two boys entered the house. It was Chris and Paco, returning from fetching their mom to the bus terminal. Chris was surprised that the old man was here. As for Paco, he was hungry. So he was relieved that someone cooked for dinner.
“Uy, Nilaga. Kain ko diyan.” (Wow, Nilaga. Let me join in.) Paco said as he grabbed a plate and its cutleries. He was about to take a nibble, but someone won’t let him. “Maghugas. Magdasal!” (Eat first, then pray!) Lolo Tasyo scolded. Paco was startled and intimidated by elder’s disciplinarian voice. So he did what the old man commanded.
Meanwhile, Chris decided to sit on the wooden sofa to rest. Serena saw Chris sitting there so she called, “Chris, aren’t you going to eat?”
“Later, I’m just exhausted.”
“Kung magpapahinga ka, bakit hindi ka kumain dito?” (If you are going to rest, then why aren’t you joining us to eat?) Lolo Tasyo questioned him. Chris sighed. He wanted to resist, but he had to respect the elder. He left with no choice to follow them as well. Chris was about to take a nibble until the elder scolded him. “Maghugas. Magdasal.”
Chris stood up and did what the old man told. He washed his hands on the sink and went back to his table. Now that he can eat for dinner. “Magdasal!” Chris shook his head and did the sign of the cross and pray. He tried to contain himself not throwing any tantrums. Now that he did everything that Lolo Tasyo commanded, he can now proceed for his dinner. However, the elder didn’t appreciate the sentiment Chris showed to him.
“May problema ka ba? Di mo ba nagugustuhan ang niluluto ng kaibigan mo? Magpasalamat ka at pinaghandaan ka ng pagkain para sa iyo!" (Is there a problem? Didn’t you like what your friend cook for you? You should be grateful that she prepared this for you!) Lolo Tasyo replied in a harsher tone.
The woman scolded her father for his brash behavior. Paco kept his mouth shut and focused on his meal. Serena began to worry that it may not go well. Chris was about to throw a fit at the old man for acting like a father to him. However, he can’t do it. He didn’t want to embarrass her mother nor his friend there. So he answered, “Patawad po. (Forgive me, sir.)”
Serena was relieved that the crisis averted. The five of them enjoyed dinner in peace except for Chris because his resentment towards Lolo Tasyo slowly grew. Now that they’ve done eating their meal, Serena and Chris decided to wash the dishes together. Paco went out to breathe some fresh air while the woman was busy entertained his father. As Serena and Chris finished, Chris decided to make some coffee. But Serena told him to provide for the guests. And so he did.
Now the coffee was served for the three of them. Serena was not keen to drink caffeine at night nor the old man’s daughter. Four people were sitting on the wooden table while Paco was on outside enjoying his coffee at the cold night. Serena started with her agenda with Lolo Tasyo, “So Lolo Tasyo, I want to know about what you have said last time.”
It was about his critic against Chris’ fighting style. “The best defense is offense.” Lolo Tasyo said in the rough English accent. “The one being charged always has the disadvantage in a fight. So when there is an opponent, attack before they can make a move. That’s what Napoleon Fernandez said. Power shouldn’t be used against power. But rather, the opponent’s power should be used against him/her.” The elder quoted that straight the mentioned figure.
“Interesting, so who’s Napoleon Fernandez?” Serena asked.
“He’s the originator of a martial arts called Yaw-Yan. I was one of his students back then.” Lolo Tasyo added. The daughter added, “My father studied martial arts during his 20’s. He learned not only Yaw-yan from his master. He also learned Dumog, Eskrima and Gun-slinging from around the world.”
“That was fascinating!” Serena exclaimed. “No wonder that you have written so many books!”
“Just as I said earlier, I’m the one who wrote those books. My daughter, Isidra translated them.” The elder reminded her.
“So you’re Isidra?” Serena looked at the daughter which she nodded.
Serena came up with the idea. “This is perfect, can you teach us some of the moves you’ve learned? We need someone with high expertise for the upcoming match. Right, Chris?”
Chris didn’t respond like he was hoping that the old man refuses.
“You can come with us to America if you want to,” Serena added.
“What?” Chris was shocked by Serena’s offer to Lolo Tasyo. Isidra was awestruck because she is curious about living in America. Lolo Tasyo was flattered but hesitant, “This is too much. We might be a heavy burden for you.”
Serena, being confident in her finance told him, “Don’t worry, I will pay for your troubles if you want.”
Lolo Tasyo was pleased. It was Isidra’s dream to live overseas. However, if Lolo Tasyo's job was to train Chris, then it posed as a challenge. He glanced at the young man beside him. “This could be a challenge. But sure, we’ll go.”
Isidra shouted with joy and Serena was glad that the elder accepted her proposal. Meanwhile, Chris was upset. He protested about this. However, Serena did this for Chris’ skills to improve, and for her to learn new things. Suddenly Paco eavesdropped both of them and entered.
“Teka lang, paano ako? (Wait a second. What about me?)”
January 9, 2019
3:54 pm
Serena, Chris, and Lolo Tasyo stood outside the house where the elder taught younger students some of its basic moves in martial arts especially 45 “Yaw-Yan” kicks and bolo punches. The 12 “bolo punches” were consist of variations of hammer and back fists. After that, Lolo Tasyo taught the basic patterns derived from different moves itself.
Their learning session ended at night where Isidra cooked dinner for the five of them. Their learning session ended at night where Isidra cooked dinner for themselves. Chicken adobo was the meal of today. They have enjoyed the poultry that being marinated with vinegar, soy sauce, garlic, and black peppercorns. Lolo Tasyo thought that the meal was good for Chris and Serena. The food was a good source of protein, an essential nutrient needed for his upcoming match. Paco asked about this Chris after their hearty meal. “Oo pala, kuya. Sino ba ang makakalaban mo sa Katorse?” (By the way, brother. Who are you fighting on the 14th?)
“Yung babaeng mayabang.” (An arrogant girl,) Chris replied.
“Weh?! Kailan ka pumapatol sa babae?” (Since when do you start picking with girls?)
“Ganon talaga sa Amerika. May mga babae na pumapatol sa lalaki, at siya talaga ang nangunang pumapatol sa akin.” (That’s how the way it is in America. There are women who picked on men. Also, she’s the one who started it.)
Other than that, Chris said no more. True to Nikki’s word from her promo. She attacked his sparring partner causing a domino effect. His sparring partner Draven hates him. The members of the gym hate him, and now something horrible must have happened to him.
“Nikki should pay for this.”
January 10, 2019
8:35 am
“Bilisan mo, Kris!” Lolo Tasyo shouted like a military chief towards Chris pulling off some combinations of kicks and strikes to Serena. The objective was for Chris to go offense in which he disagrees. While Serena was on defense, Lolo Tasyo didn’t like the sloppiness of Chris’ movement. “Oy, oy, oy! Bumabagal ka na, ang sabi ko bilis!”
Chris was still on trance, so Lolo Tasyo cut in. “Hoy gising! Bingi ka ba? Sabi ko bilisan mo! (Hey wake up! You are deaf? I said go faster!)”
Chris shook his head and began to rebut. “Di ako makakaisip na maigi kung sumisigaw ka po!” (I can’t concentrate if you keep yelling!)
“Dami mong reklamo! Bibilisan mo lang.” (Quit complaining! I’m asking you to go faster.)
“Pero sumusobra ka na!” (But you have gone too far!) Chris lashed out shouting at the elder. Serena’s instinct kicked in and rushed towards him convincing him to stop.
“Hindi ka ba tinuro ng magulang mo na gumalang sa nakatatanda sa iyo, bata ka?” (Didn’t your parents taught you to respect your elders, boy?) Lolo Tasyo slowly stepped in confronting the young man.
“Hindi sa di kita nirerespeto. Sa pagsasanay namin, hindi sumisigaw ang mga tagasanay.” (It’s not that I’m disrespectful. In our training, coaches don’t shout at their trainees in anger.)
Lolo Tasyo shook his heads seeing the flaws of his former teachers. “Kaya pala malamya ang mga kilos mo. Dahil ang mga tagasanay ay hindi tumuturo ng tamang disiplina!” (So this is why your movements were weak. It is because your coaches didn’t teach you the right discipline!)
Those words spat on Chris’ face. His indignation can’t hold longer. Chris engaged but Serena restrained him. Paco and Isidra saw this and joined the commotion as well. Paco helped Serena to keep Chris in control while Isidra stood on his father’s side. Chris shouted at him. “Bawiin mo! Bawiin mo ang mga salita mo!” (Take it back! Take it back what you just said!)
The confrontation went personal and intensified. The elders had enough of his garbage coming from his mouth. So he shouted at the top of his lungs. Everything came into a halt. He looked at Chris’ furious eyes. Chris pointed his fighters towards the elder, “Wala tayong mapupunta sa pag-away na ito. May tatlong araw pa tayo bago ang sagupaan at hanggang ngayon hindi pa ako gumagaling!” (This fight isn’t going everywhere. We have three days before the fight yet I haven’t improved!)
“Bitawan niyo ako!” (Get off of me!) Chris pushed Serena and Paco off. The blonde woman couldn’t believe it like he was changed. “Laban ko ito kaya sasanay ako mag-isa!” (This is my fight, so I’m going to train alone!)
Chris walked off resolving himself to go another direction. Paco ran towards him trying to calm Chris. Lolo Tasyo shouted at him, “Hangal!” (Fool!) It seemed that Chris didn’t care. Later the elder predicted the outcome of Chris’ match to Serena. “This is not good. His stubbornness will be the end of it. He will not win the upcoming match for sure.”
The old coach’s prophecy terrified Serena. It based on his expertise and probably his experience. The coach really knows what he was saying.
It's quite fascinating that a student thinks that he knows better than a teacher, just like what Chris showed here. However, he didn't present enough to establish that he was right. I can't blame my friend, laying on the dirt. It has come to his, to show that Salem has achieved men, and Chris was one of them. The Household Dungeon relies on him. Chris believes that he can do this. He can prove to anyone that with his will and bravery, he can surpass the enemy. He convinces himself that everyone has their strengths and weakness. And they are all the same. He thought that he didn't need some "silly" moves from the old man.
However, I can see the point of our mentor. I asked him about it. Speed and attack were the keys to win the match. He tried to influence him with this fighting philosophy. But Tasyo saw Chris as an undisciplined student. That's why he said earlier back in the dinner table, that it was a challenge. Now it looked like taming a wild horse. The wise man knew that his undisciplined manner would be the cause of his loss.
In my opinion, I would like to see how the match goes. Nikki partnered with Karlie Nash in the past, and she proved relentless in her fights. But the problem for her is that she has less experience as a singles competitor than Chris. It may take some match to condition herself to be a singles competitor. In short, she might need to break ties with Karlie Nash to establish herself.
Chris may get himself a disadvantage. He was undisciplined, unprepared and probably overconfident. But if he knew what he was doing, then I believe he can do it so. I want to see how the match in Boston, Massachusetts will end. Will Chris' will, bravery and hate drive helps him to prevail over Nikki Vaughn or will the match served him as a lesson? Nevertheless, it is on Chris' hands.
However, I can see the point of our mentor. I asked him about it. Speed and attack were the keys to win the match. He tried to influence him with this fighting philosophy. But Tasyo saw Chris as an undisciplined student. That's why he said earlier back in the dinner table, that it was a challenge. Now it looked like taming a wild horse. The wise man knew that his undisciplined manner would be the cause of his loss.
In my opinion, I would like to see how the match goes. Nikki partnered with Karlie Nash in the past, and she proved relentless in her fights. But the problem for her is that she has less experience as a singles competitor than Chris. It may take some match to condition herself to be a singles competitor. In short, she might need to break ties with Karlie Nash to establish herself.
Chris may get himself a disadvantage. He was undisciplined, unprepared and probably overconfident. But if he knew what he was doing, then I believe he can do it so. I want to see how the match in Boston, Massachusetts will end. Will Chris' will, bravery and hate drive helps him to prevail over Nikki Vaughn or will the match served him as a lesson? Nevertheless, it is on Chris' hands.
Chapter 1, The Wild Horse
Working Title of Chris’ Dairy as written by Serena Eldritch