Matthew Sijon: The Great Escape (Part 2)

What just happen... Matthew thought as he walked to the fireplace. The remote-controlled fireplace is not enough to keep him warm. The thought of him being the descendant of the White Caliph makes him shivers and send him trembles throughout his body. He replays back his memory, running through his brain and picking up some conversations he had with Edward Tenner. Weird that he knows about Kris Si Naga and where it is hidden. Is this some kind of a trick? ‘You’ll figure it out’? What was that?!

“Everything alright, Matthew?” Matthew turned around. Mr. Tenner is still sitting comfortably in his chair. He was looking at Matthew, who still dizzy from all the information he got. He is struggling to stand still as his body rocks and his head thumping hard. He reached out his hands on the mantelpiece for support. “Just a bit lightheaded, Sir.” Mr. Tenner got up from his sit, holding the cane stick to support his fragile, old body. He went to the corner of the room, where the drinks were being served. He reached out the cabinet and took a water bottle from it. While he poured the water into the glass, Matthew tries to walk towards the sofa. His body sagged and his hands were pinching his forehead in attempt to get rid of the pain.

“I understand this is really too much for you to digest, Matthew.” He reached out the glass to Matthew and went back to his chair. “Matthew, there are many secrets that we kept from you. It is for your own good, I promise you that.” Secrets and why did he say ‘we’?

“More secrets? Oh great. What else other than the fact that I’m the descendant of White Caliph?” Matthew pressed on to force more answers from Edward Tenner. He felt that man did not give enough explanations. “Do you want me to get the Kris Si Naga for you? Is this what this is about? Huh!” Mr. Tenner flinched as Matthew raised his voice. He slumped in his seat and let out a long sigh. It is as if he tries to gather himself. His minds throbbing, searching for words and put it in sentences to make Matthew understands the situation.

“Matt, a lot of people bid for this Kris. I’m talking about bad people here. I don’t know how to explain it to you. It’s quite a long story.” He paused for a while. Matthew squint his eyes in suspicion- he did not trust the old man. “I don’t want it. I really don’t. I just want you to get it out and saved some people. Some important people, important to both of us.” Matthew gave an exasperated sigh. It is as if Mr. Tenner is protecting someone. He had enough with all the secrets he just learn.

“Mr. Tenner, I’m asking you to be honest with me. What do you want me to do with the damn old dagger that had nothing to do with me? Is this some kind of a trick? You invited me to come here and out of the blue, you just revealed that I am the descendant of White Caliph. Since I came here, I have been wondering-” He stood up and took his rucksack. His hands reached down to the bottom of the rucksack then pulled out the invitation letter. “-This does not seem to be an invitation letter for a dinner or something. You asked me to travel from Sarawak to Macau just for you to reveal the stinking family history to me. You have not told me the whole truth! Why am I here?!”

“It is going to shock you. I doubt you are ready for the real truth. You have to sit and just breathe in.” Matthew refuses to comply with Mr. Tenner’s order. He continues to stand as an act of rebel. His face expression turns into gloomier as ever as he gets impatient every time the old man dodges the questions. “Okay, here’s the deal, Matt. I will tell you the truth. I won’t hold back and won’t leave out anything. I guarantee you that if you just sit down and breathe. I can hear you breathing like a horse.” Soon afterwards, Matthew sat down. He holds his vital and checks for his pulse. Indeed, he did breathe like a horse. His heart beat paces even faster and thumps loudly as if he can hear the blood flows in his ears. The most anticipated moment for him- to find out the truth.

“Now, that wasn’t so hard, was it? You know the Brooke’s family, don’t you?” Without waiting for Matthew to answer, he reached out a book besides him. Matthew caught a glimpse of the title, which says ‘The Name of Brooke’. “This book is written by a good friend of mine. His name is Robert Reece. Or just called him Bob. You see, in this book, he described your great-great grandfather as a complex character. He is ambitious and very conniving in his political scheme. Most historians agreed that he is a genius, but like most genius, they end up in mental institute.”

“I get that. He’s crazy.”

“Good. But he was only in the mental institute for about six years. Then he came back to Borneo, attempting to weave his political ambitions with the local affairs. He is just... troublesome, a nuisance. The British during that time, which is in 1930s and 40s, they do not want to be dragged to Sarawak to clean up his messes. MacBryan kept on messing around, meddling with local political affairs. Oh... my father was one of those British officers. We used to live in Singapore, you know. My father always talked about him everyday. Literally everyday like every time he’s in his study room or in his bed.” Matthew felt he had unhinge his jaw and it drops somewhere on the floor. Although he had only just known about his existence, he already hates his gut.

“Mr. Tenner, I thought your father admire him. I mean, it sounded like your father does like him.”

“Hahahaha, no, my father admires him for his brain, not his actions. My father is the one who always gets him out of trouble. Well, up until 1950 though, when MacBryan was allegedly murdered. But there is one more important thing that I need you to know.” He moved his positions so that he can get closer to Matthew. He leans closer to him and all of sudden, he grabbed Matthew hands to get closer to him.

“No one knows about this except me and my father. When MacBryan failed to secure his political position in Brunei, he, then, went to Hong Kong and stayed there until he died. My father has been MacBryan’s only trusted friend. He didn’t trust the Brooke, the British and not even his wives. According to my father, MacBryan had lost hope in searching fortune and wanted to leave something behind for his wife. He intended to sell the Kris Si Naga. He called up many bidders. I’m talking about important bidders here like the Chinese Triads and many gangs. The problem is there are so many people wanted to have it and they bid up to $1 trillion. It drives everyone bonkers. The British knew about it and because it may cause more drama in Brunei, they had plotted to kill MacBryan. At least that’s what we believe. The result of autopsy was very inconclusive.”

“Your father? Did he tell the British about it?”

“Nope. No matter how crazy MacBryan is, my father has a soft spot for him. Maybe he felt sympathy for him. How the British did know about it? Well, the Chinese Triads were fighting over it. Two of the Triads, the Yakuza and the Capone, caused some serious disturbances in Hong Kong. After the British announced MacBryan’s death, these two Triads were extremely disappointed and wanted to start a war between them. Until the Father, who is the head of all the Triads, wanted to stop the war by having their first convention. What I heard, they make a pact with each leader. The pact meant to stop the war and not to seek for the dagger. By 1960, the pact was made official. They promise not to step on each other’s turf.”

“I have never heard of the Capone’s triad. Are they - “

“Not the real Capone himself. The founder was so obsessed with Al Capone that added his last name as Capone. They’re like the new Triad in the 50s. Made a lot of money from selling drugs, human trafficking... they’re just sick. But like all Chinese Triads, the Capone wants prestige. Kris Si Naga will up their prestige to the next level. The same level as the Father. They basically want to be the top.”

“If they are strong, how come they still cannot retrieve the Kris themselves? How hard can it be? Just rob the bank.”
“Ah... they are strong, but they cannot just go to the bank and steal it. They are way too classy to do that.” He paused for a while and look down. Matthew became more agitated in listening to more of the story. “Matthew, they need the descendant of MacBryan to retrieve it for them. The bank security is too tight and the convention pact is still intact. They need the MacBryan’s predecessors to do it. They have tried it before, but it failed.”

“They failed? I thought me and my grandmother was-“

Suddenly it struck him. His heart beat even faster than before. “My parents.” Mr. Tenner looked at him, feeling sympathetic to the boy in front of him. The boy that he saw in the beginning began to look like a baby. Mr. Tenner examines Matthew’s face. It resembles his mother’s oval-shaped face, high cheek bone and thin lips resembles his father. “I’m sorry, Matthew. Your grandmother and I decided to keep this secret from you. It is way too dangerous for you to even know the whole truth. Now, they’re after you. We have heard so many stories from Sarawak in which they try to kidnap you. I have to guard you from them. It is my responsibility.”

His body trembles listening to Mr. Tenner. “They’re still alive?”

“Yes. Very much. They had to work for the Capone. Look, Matthew. The reason I want you to be here is to end this silliness. I’m an old man. I cannot be there for everyone. I just need you to come with me, meet the Father, release your parents and then, let me die in peace. You can do whatever you want with the dagger. You can keep it, sell it or whatever. Then after that, my job is done.”

“Why are you helping me, Mr. Tenner?”

“Because your great-great grandfather wants my family to protect his. My only worry is that you are not ready enough to get through all this. I just want to retire and put an end to the saga. I have been trying to get your parents out and I have failed many times. My people are killed and the Father is on my back.” He stood up and reach out his hand to Matthew. “Ready, son?” Matthew looked at the hand for a while. Instantly, he grabbed it and got up as well. He is determining to reunite his family one more time.

“Ready, Sir.”

“Let’s packed! We’re going to Brunei tomorrow to meet an old friend of mine. He can help us create the escape plan.” Matthew just nod and both of them walked to the automated doors.

Matthew Sijon: The descendant of White Caliph (Part 1)

The sun shone over the cobbled street of Macau, glistened its surfaces. The whole venetian-esque city is very impressive, with the architecture similar to Italy’s renaissance building. It is the first time Matthew step into Macau’s land-it was the first time he ever got out of Sarawak! Matthew went strolling down the street, gawking at the locals who are doing their daily basis. Amazing! He thought to himself. He rolled his sleeves up to his elbows and put on a sunglass. He looked at his digital watch on his wrist. The driver is late. He was supposed to be picked up half an hour ago. Just as promise.

Matthew cannot wait to meet the man who sent him the letter. He brought along the letter and kept it safe in his rucksack. His mind travels back to Sarawak, his homeland. He was born and bred there, but he is not like any other Sarawakian. He is different from his Sarawakian brothers- he is white and his face is fairer than any girls in his school. He did go to the public school where everyday he was brutally abused by his roommates especially in the shower room. His grandmother pulled him out of the school immediately upon hearing the harsh treatments. He went to International School, which also he felt he did not fit in. The International students are from wealthy, influential family quite the opposite to his background. He had been friendless since the day he was born.

Just a month ago, a lady escorted with two bodyguards came to their house. The lady, who introduces herself as Ms. Schon, giving an invitation letter addressed to Matthew. His grandmother was intrigued, thinking that good fortune will come to their family. Matthew had to accept the invitation letter and inside contain one-way ticket to Macau. Matthew studied the letter and found a name underneath the signature. His name is Edward Tenner. Matthew was quite unsure about the invitation. He did not even know who this man is and does not even know anyone related to Tenner. Despite his suspicion, he accepted the invitation letter after his grandmother forced him to. Maybe it will change our luck, he thought.

“Mr. Sihon.” Matthew was startled by that authoritative voice. He turned around and found a man in a suit, wearing a sunglass. Matthew thought he look like the guy in Men in Black. “It’s cee-john.”

“My apologies, Mr.Sijon. Mr. Tenner is waiting for you at his Chateau. Let me lead you to the car.” Matthew nods his head and followed the man. He felt quite awkward when more bodyguards wearing black suit followed him behind. Matthew looked around and saw people whispering as if he is the most important people. Mathew was surprised when he saw the car. A black Rolls-Royce with black window-it looks as if it was recently bought. Matthew became more curious about the man who invited him. So far, he can only say that he is filthy rich but still could not find the motives. The men in black escort him to the back door and open it for him. He found the inside is even more luxurious- leather seats, dark tainted windows, a small TV.

As the car drove along the road, Matthew looked around the streets of Macau. The buildings resemble the Portuguese architecture, with many churches on the side of the roads. Matthew looked at the back of the car and he saw more black cars followed them. He became more aware that this mysterious Edward Tenner is an important man. Soon afterwards, the car slowed down as it drove along the narrow street and eventually it stopped in front of the big gates. Matthew peeked through the front window and he was very impressed by the size of the Chateau. It has large front yard covered with green grass which looks like a polyester carpet. The Chateau itself almost looks like a castle own by the royalty.

The big gate opens abruptly without warning. The car drove through the gate and Matthew can closely view the chateau. It is more like Versailles palace, more like medieval palace. The driver opens the door for him, and escorted him inside. As the huge door open, Matthew thought his jaw could have dropped. The outside looks like a medieval palace, but the inside is what strikes him the most. The marbled floor is shiny as if he walks on a wet floor. IT was a mixture of medieval and modern furniture. On the wall, Matthew saw a lot of paintings. At the corridor, he saw a lot of antiques like a sword and some vases which has Chinese inscriptions on it.

“Awesome...”

“I’m glad you like it, Mr. Sihon.” Matthew looked to his left and found an old man with his stick walking towards him.

“It’s cee-john, sir. You’re Mr. Tenner?”

“Ah... I believe I am. How are you, my boy?”

“Good.” He offers his hand to shake Mr. Tenners’. Mr. Tenner grabbed him by his hands and gave him friendly hug. “Good, good. I see that you have corrected your last name. Excuse us. We are so used with Latin language. Sometimes it slipped up.”

“No worries, sir. Just call me Matthew or Matt.”

“Alright, it is Matthew then. Let’s go to my library. I hope you don’t mind the smell of old books in there.”

“Not at all, Mr. Tenner.” Both of them walked along the corridor until they had found a door, labelled ‘private’ on it. Matthew could not help but gawk at the automated door. Mr.Tenner uses his fingerprint to access the door. “Come on in! Make yourself comfortable. There’s a very comfy sofa for young man like you.” Matthew sat down and put his rucksack on the floor. He looked around and he saw the room was full of bookshelves, filled with books. The bodyguards shut the door and leave them both alone in the room. Matthew felt his journey to Macau had been exciting and anticipation builds as he waits for Mr. Tenner to sit on his sofa.

“How’s your grandmother, Matthew?”

“She’s alright. And she sends her regards for you”

“Ah such a lovely woman, God blesses her soul.”

“I’m sorry, sir. I hope you don’t mind me asking you this. Why are you inviting me here?”

“I see that you are very curious about it.” Mr. Tenner rests his stick on his arm chair. “Are you aware of these terms: ‘The White Caliph’ or ‘The Little Sultan’?” His eyes looked directly at Matthew’s reaction, hoping that he had at least knowledge about it.

“No sir. Never heard of it.”

“Okay. What about ‘Kris Si Naga’?”

“Nope.”

“For God sake, Matthew. Did you ever ask your grandmother about your ancestor?”

“No, sir. Why?”

“You see, you are the descendant of Gerard MacBryan.”

“Ummm... who?”

“Dear lord, you never heard of him? He’s famous in the Sarawakian history.”

“I’m sorry, Sir. I have no idea.”

“Well, it is not your fault. They kept that information for good.”

“I’m sorry, Sir. I’m a bit confused.”

“Okay, as I said just now, you are the descendant of Gerard MacBryan. He is private British officer for Brunei during the Japanese occupation. My father use to tell story about Gerard, he is handsome, very polite, but everyone who knows him, know that he is very delusional. He had this idea about taking over Borneo Island and wanting to rule as a legitimate sultan.”

“Mr. Tenner. I still don’t understand what this has got to do with me.”

“I’m getting there. You see, he works for Sultan Ahmad Tajuddin. He became his private secretary and the sultan only trusted him. Before the Sultan died, he gave one of the most precious possessions to MacBryan. No one knows why he gave it to MacBryan. The sultan gave him the Kris Si Naga.” He took a book besides him and showed him the picture of the dagger. “One thing you have to understand that during that time, the Kris Si Naga is the symbol of the power of the Sultan. Whoever possesses the Kris, they are the ruler of Brunei.”

“He wants to rule Brunei? He is that ambitious?”

“Now, don’t fret over it, Matthew. Well, when the British Empire knew about the dagger, they decided to stop MacBryan once and for all. It is quite controversial to the nature of his death. A lot of historians try to link the murder and connect it with the British involvement. No one still knows who killed MacBryan.”

“What happen to the Kris? Did they return it to the Brunei government?”

“The Kris. Yes... MacBryan kept it hidden in a safe in the Hongkong Bank. His last will was found and said only the direct descendent of him can access the safe, which is you.”

“Does that mean it is mine?”

“Yes, you are the descendant of the White Caliph. Your grandmother thought it is time that you know the truth.”

“After I access it, then what am I going to do with it? It is no use for me.”

“You’ll figure it out soon, Matthew. You’ll figure it out.” 

Tawakkal

“These medications...,” The doctor paused for a while, searching for the right words. “There is still no cure for genetic disease. The medications that we gave her every hour are only to ease her pain, but not to cure. Genetic disease is quite a complex case, as you have been well informed. I am very sorry to say that we have tried our best to save your daughter, Tuan.” As soon as the doctor said that, his heart stops beating. He dropped on his knees and drowns in his own tears. Ahmad refuses to hear another words coming out of the doctor’s mouth. Every words coming to the doctor’s mouth had torn him apart. Ahmad’s big sister, Masnah, unable to say any words, joins his brother and hugged him dearly. Both of them are dripping and drown with tears.

“How long do you think the medications will last, doctor?” Masnah’s husband, Rosli, lets the two siblings hugged each other. “I cannot say for certain. As I said, the medication only works in helping to ease her pain, not to cure her disease. I also cannot be so sure how much time she had left. My estimated time is two months at least. I’m very sorry again.” The doctor bid them goodbye and walked towards on the opposite corridor. Rosli looks at the two siblings again, who still wailing upon hearing the news. People who just walked and pass them could feel the sense of emotions.

Rosli wanted to join them but he is unable to do so. He had to be strong for them and be their comforter. As he walked towards them, he cannot help but chokes. The sorrow, depression engulfed the whole circumstances. Poor man... Rosli thought to himself. He cannot imagine of losing someone that you love with all their might. Ahmad is about to lose another loved ones. Few years ago, he had lost his wife and now his only daughter. Ahmad still putting his head on his two palms-still trembling. “Mat, you have to be patient, mat... Sabar and tawakkal.” Ahmad shook his heads. All Rosli could hear is Ahmad saying ‘anakku, Ya Allah, anakku’

Rosli knew from that point, Ahmad is unable to let his daughter go. Rosli insist Ahmad to get up. He gently shook Masnah and aware of the people who passed them, stared at them as if they had gone mad. But maybe they did go mad. Ahmad just felt the whole world starting to fall apart and he had no more family besides him. He is almost fifty years old. Ahmad thought he should go first before his daughter. Rosli picked them up together and insist that Ahmad should go to the nearby Mosque with him. Rosli looked at Ahmad’s face; so red and glistened with tears. Rosli told his wife to stay at the hospital with the others in the room, while he and Ahmad went to Masjid.

Ahmad had to be half-carried by Rosli all the way to the parking lot. Ahmad is all weak in the knees. He is far too fragile to move or even to carry himself. His face is all gloomy and depressed. Tears rushes down his face and he did not even care to wipe it on his sleeves. When he found his car, Rosli quickly open the car and had to hold Ahmad from falling over. Poor Ahmad... He does even care to put on his seatbelt. His eyes fixated to the front with dry tears on his cheeks which makes his face even more glistened that it was before. On their way to the mosque, he did not say anything but to Rosli’s relief, he had stopped crying.

By the time they get to the mosque, they both went for ablution and did the solat hajat. Soon after Rosli did his Pray, he glanced at his right and saw Ahmad reaching out his hands, crying while praying to Allah. His hands still trembling and body looks very weak. Rosli saw a broken, fragile man who is about to lose his precious one. Rosli suddenly engulfed in a sadness as he watches Ahmad reaching out his hands, muttering some words which Rosli was pretty sure he is desperate asking for God to cure his daughter.

They went back to the car and Rosli beginning to feel anxious looking at Ahmad, who still looks remorseful. “Mat, if you want to talk about anything, I’m here. You know. Just to let you know that.” He started the engine and drove to the bustling streets. Ahmad still keeping his mouth shut and his eyes fixated straight ahead. Rosli thought about wanting to start a conversation with him.

“Mat, I’m not really a pious man. But my only word of advice to you is just to pray-“

“I have prayed, Bang Li! I have prayed everyday for her well being. I prayed to God in a hope that she will be better! All the praying, all the money... I had paid for all cost, but why does God still want to take her away from me?”

Rosli finds it hard to reason with Ahmad at the moment. Ahmad is not in his right mind. Rosli cannot blame him for being unreasonable. “Mat, istighfar Mat. Istighfar. As I said I am not a pious man, but if this is what God had wanted, then just let it be Mat. This is His test for you. See if your faith still shaken by this.” Ahmad continues to wail and sobbing uncontrollably. Rosli whisper the word ‘astghfirullahala’dzim’ repeatedly until the sobbing slowly stops.

“I should’ve put her in JPMC. Yes, they have good doctors there. Yes, let’s transfer Aria to JPMC.”

“Mat, even if you put her to JPMC, they cannot even stop death. The JPMC may have all the best medicines or the best qualities in the world, but they do not have cure for death, Mat. You need to understand this, it is God’s will. Just let it be, Mat. Just tawakkal to Allah Subhanahu Wa Ta’ala.”

“Why aria? Oh what am I going to do? What am I going to do?” Ahmad held his head on his palm, his fingers running through his thin hair and grabs it. Rosli felt so helpless-he just let his brother-in-law cries. All Rosli could offer is to sit besides him and listen to his pains. He understands that ever since Ahmad’s wife passed away, he and his daughter had been so close. “Mat, I know you won’t listen to any words I said right now. I’ve known you for all my life. I know you inside and out. But you know what, Allah knows you better than I do.” Ahmad looks up to Rosli and trying to hold back his tears.

“But hear me. I know you are a very nice person and so is your daughter. You brought her up very well, surrounded her with good environment. I’m going to say this again, Mat. I am not a pious man. I think you have done your job as a father. You brought her up really well. I felt like Aria is like my own daughter too, you know. You can cry all want and you can blame the doctors too if you want, Mat. But it won’t change anything. It is already her time.” Ahmad stares at Rosli and thought that he might as well needs to handle this well. He knew this was a test from God and he need to face it.

They went back to the hospital and walked towards Aria’s room. Ahmad cannot even look at his daughter who is lying on the hospital bed. Aria is already wide awake and talking to Masnah. When she saw her father, she asked him to come closer. Everyone in the room just waits on the other corner of the room. Ahmad sat on the bed, close to her daughter’s head. Aria reached out her hand, wanting Ahmad to hold hers. Ahmad, reluctantly hold his hands and trying to smile like nothing happen. 

“Bah...”

“Aria, you need to have a rest... Babah will be here, alright?”

“Bah, I know... I already know. You don’t have to say it.” Ahmad still does not want to look at her eyes, afraid he might cry again. He held Aria’s weak hands and carefully places it on his palms.

“Bu Masnah told you about it?”

“No bah... I saw it.”

“Saw what?”

“I saw the light. It was a bright, white light. I saw it everyday. They told me about it. They told me that I will be taken soon.” Tears rushing down his cheeks-Ahmad unable to hold his tears back and he knew the doctor is wrong. The doctor had estimated she will only last two months. Ahmad knew it is going to be sooner. He had now accepted the fact that her daughter is going to leave him soon.

“Bah?”

“Yes.”

“You know I love you dearly. Don’t worry about me okay. Just... let it be.” Aria looks up and smiles. “They’re coming. Bah, don’t worry. Soon we will be reunited in the afterlife. We will wait for you, bah.” Ahmad grips his daughter’s hands as tightly as he could. Rosli came closer to Aria’s ears and whispers the syahadah. As soon as she said her syahadah, her body went lifeless and both her eyes close. Ahmad tries to hold his tears back while he planted a goodbye kiss on Aria’s forehead. His lips trembling and his whole body was shaking. A pool of tears surfaces around his eyes and as it gets bigger, it falls down his cheeks. “Tunggu babah, Aria. Tunggu Babah disana.”

Around the campfire

“Yo slacker! Get that fuckin’ woods here!” Bill instantaneously got up from his chair and brings the woods to Grove. Grove was sitting near the campfire, trying to light it up using the old stone method. Bill let out a small squeal, trying not to laugh at Grove. He thought it was amusing to see Grove, the greatest geek on earth (as what Bill had claimed), decided to use the ancient method.

“Dude... It’s not gonna work.” Bill reaches his hand in his pockets, searching for his matches. Grove, who was initially squatting on the ground, let his kneed falls on the ground. He was exhausted after several failed attempts to light up the campfire. Grove looks up to Bill who is still searching for matches. “You got matches? Are you fuckin kiddin me?” Grove wiped his sweats on his shirts and he is seemingly out of breath. Bill ignored him and continues to look for matches. Few seconds afterward he pulled out matches from cargo pant’s pockets.

“Chill the fuck out dude. I thought you need some time to get it done.” Bill walked towards the campfire and brought the woods with him. Grove was far too exhausted- he lay on the ground, which is full of dead leaves, twigs and some insects. He is still sweating profusely and gasping fro breath. Bill glanced over his shoulder while he was lighting up his matches. “By the way, you look like hell.” Grove raises his middle finger to Bill.

The sun almost sets and it gets darker and darker. Bill had, to Grove’s dismay, light up the campfire, set up the tent and spread both their sleeping bags inside. As for Grove, he was not built for this surrounding, just relaxing on the lounge chair which is near the campfire. “I don’t get why you want to go to Lake Wisconsin, Grove.” Bill was unloading a big box of canned food from their rented car and put it down on the ground near Grove. “It’s what I need. What’s the big deal anyway? It’s just Wisconsin. With forest and lake and shit.”

“You’re not fuckin Rambo or fuckin Chuck Norris. If you need happy time, just go to the strip club. Lots of bitches will go down on you. You fuckin ‘tard” Grove senses Bill disappointment for dragging him to the Lake. He knew Bill is not into forest but since he is very resourceful, Grove just brought him there. “Look man... remember that seminar we go to?” Bill stops unpacking the canned food. He stares at Grove as if he is trying to read his mind. “Sean Covey’s seminar... He said something about going out of your comfort zone.”

Bill just smiles remembering the day they both went to the seminar. Grove was surprisingly attentive and he knew, now, that Grove wanted to try different things. “Well, next time, get someone who know more about this camping shit. Or you know what? Dont even go camping dude. You’re worse at it.” Bill turned around and unloads another box which is full of fishing equipment. Grove looks distraught and wondering if Bill knows his real intention. He cautiously looked at Bill, who is busy unpacking boxes. Fuck, does he know?

As it gets darker and the moon finally visible, the coldness had engulfed their bodies. Both Grove and Bill get closer to the campfire and trying to warm themselves. At the same time, they are both trying to barbeque chicken wings on their big sticks which they had found near the lake. However, it was very unsuccessful. The chicken wings burn and they decided to just eat it anyway.

“You wanna go to the piers?” Bill looked at Grove in annoyance. “Why the heck do you need to go to the piers?”

“For a swim?”

“Fuck you. Both of will freeze to death. Just stay near the fire.” Bill resumes eating his burnt chicken wings. Grove grew more anxious and felt like a load of bricks on his chest. He felt the need to tell him immediately, but could not find a way to tell him. He went to the tent and search for his digital camera in his rucksack. He put it in his pocket and went to the campfire again. Bill seems much focused on trying not to burn his sausage.

Grove tries to get Bill’s attention by taking pictures of their surroundings. The moon shone over it and creates that twinkling effect to those rippling waves. Grove took picture of that and pretends to check it on the screen and continues to take pictures at the campfire. Bill getting more irritated that he stops trying to make his sausage to cook. “Okay... dude, what the fuck? I know you are weird, man. But what the hell are you doing taking pictures and shit.”

“For Facebook. Gonna upload it by the time we got home tomorrow.” Bill is still not satisfied with the answer and wanted to get the truth out from Grove. He knew Grove was hiding something. He knew it by the time he asked him to go out camping with him. Bill thought it was odd enough to see Grove wanted to camp, not wanting to rent a house nearby. Bill went up to him with infuriation. “Dude. Come on! I know you. You are so weird by the time we got here. This is not really about that fucking sean covey’s seminar! I know you’re hiding something! Come on! Spill it out!” As he said that, he gets closer to Grove and pushing him violently. Grove just stands there and trying the hardest not to hurt him back.

“Stop pushing me, man! Alright, alright! I’ll tell!” Bill stops pushing him and wait for Grove to gather himself and talk.

“The administration wants you out. There I said it!”

“What? You mean I’m fired?” Bill’s eyes get even wider in disbelief.

“Look, I got nothing to do with it. I swear, man. I don’t have nothing against you. The big boss just wants you out. I really don’t-“

“I can’t be fired... What about my project? What about my prototype? I thought they agree to finance it!”

Grove took a deep sigh. “They gave it to someone else. They are now asking for Jen’s department to take over it and the administration willing to compensate for it. Look, man. I’m so sorry. I don’t know how to tell you about this.” He was very sympathetic to look at wide-eyed Bill walking around trying to simmer all the information.

“No, fuck that! That is not just my fucking prototype and my project. That is my fucking life! I worked on that since I was in college. They want to compensate me for stealing my work! Fuck that shit! And fuck you!”

“I’m sorry man. It’s beyond my jurisdiction, man! I tried to stop that but-“

“No fuck you! This thing could change my life around! And you brought me here just to tell me that! Fuck you!” He strides along the coastline of the lake, repeating the F-word. His action definitely scares the bystander. Grove feeling helpless just let Bill going on ranting about it. He sat on the lounge chair, hoping that everything will be fine the next morning. The next morning, he saw Bill, looked depressed and messy. Grove decided to pack the tent, all the boxes while Bill still thinking about his future. Grove could not do anything but feel sympathetic towards anything. Along their way back home, both of them did not talk to each other and not even speak to each other. 

The meaning of life

“DIAMOND SAGA- CHARLES JR. DISOWNED!”

Sigh! Poor Charlie... The whole Diamond saga is on every public spectacle. Everyone wants to snoop around their business. Everyone wants to know every single detail about the Diamond. I look at the headline again. I kept on repeating that name. Charles. Charlie. Charles. Charlie. He is growing up now. Underneath the big, bold headline, they also put in one of the old Diamond’s family portrait. There he is Charlie (Jr.) who looks swanky in that suit and bowtie. He must be about 5 or 6 years old here.

I scanned that young face. Everyone can tell that he is not happy. Indeed, a remarkable job by the journalist. You do not have to know Charles (Jr.) at all. The boy’s expression just said it all. He was and is never happy with the family. But then again, no one knows the real story behind it. I fold the paper and put it near the book shelves. I took a deep breath and let a long exhale to let all the memories evaporate into the thin air. It is not working. The Diamonds still lingers around my mind. Snap out of it, Jenna. Snap out of it.

I walked away from the living room and went to the kitchen, preparing for lunch. Connor and Vivie will be home soon. Some dirty dishes are left at the kitchen counter. Ah! It is almost noon! I walked to the kitchen sink and turn on the tap water. As I stand, cleaning all the dishes, I looked over the window. There lays a massive green grass covering our backyard. Oh my dear, Charlie... I stopped working with the dishes and stared at the backyard. The memory lingers on again. There is that feeling again. The big, bold and ugly headline pasted in my mind. I cannot stop thinking about it. If only I could meet Charlie again...

“Jenna, dear...” Gasp! A huge arm wrapped around my waist and a kiss on the forehead. That familiar warmth feeling is so comforting. I lay my head back on Connor’s chest. My eyes are all fixed at the backyard. Butterflies flutter their wings, looking for flowers to settle on. “Did you read the headline today, hon?” Connor took a deep breath and exhale. He slowly turns me around to face him. He looks calm as always. And such a lovely smile. I knew Connor expected me to ask him about it. His twinkling eyes reveal it so.

“Yes I have... You forgot something, dear?” Connor points to the clock. Oh my God! It is almost 1pm in the afternoon. I have been staring at the backyard for that long. I forgot all about lunch. I let go of Connor’s arms and start preparing for lunch, leaving Connor standing near the sink. I caught a glimpse of him seemingly amused. I was about to open the fridge when Connor stops me.

“Why don’t we just order in?” He walks to one of the kitchen counter and look for food leaflet. At the same time, my mind still boggles over Charlie.  That darn paper! I felt sorry for Connor, who just got back from work. I know that he is exhausted. Yes, he is so sweet. While he was searching for leaflet, I closely eye his body. His body physique had lost it’s sculpt and over the years, he had developed a beer belly. His face shows traces of lines. Despite all that, he still is sweet and charming as ever. I walked up to him and wrap my arms around his belly. His body just transmit that teddy bear like feeling.

“You’re alright hon?” I can sense worrisome in his voice. Laying my head on his back, I said to him “I can’t stop thinking about Charlie... “

Connor turns his back and planted a wet kiss on my lips. I just smiles and return his kiss. He knows that I have been bothered by the news lately. It has been mostly talking about the Diamonds or the “Diamonds saga” as they call it. It was disturbing and very daunting for both of us. We have known the Diamonds for almost more than twenty years now. In fact, we used to work with them. I used to teach Charlie. Poor boy... Connor works as one of the bodyguards for Charlie. That is how we first met; a shared friendship bond over Charlie.

HONK! HONK! Both of us were jumped by the sound of the car honks. “It’s Vivie...“

Connor unwrap my arm and took my hand, slowly leading me towards the living room. As soon as we get there, he asked me to sit while he approaches the front door to open it for Vivie. I watched him open the door and a slender figure came in. “Oh sorry dad... I left the house key in my room... “ Her hair bounces as she walks towards me and she suddenly stops. She stares at me and Connor back and forth. “Is everything alright?” She cast her eyes on me. There is that suspicious tone in her voice. She probably could sense it.

Before I could say anything, Connor cuts me off “Mum forgot to cook for lunch... So which do you prefer: Chinese or Indian?” Vivie let out sigh of relief. “Chinese... We had Indian last week...oh I’m gonna go upstairs and take a shower... “ She turn and climb the stairs. As soon as she is gone, Connor looked at me again and gives me another smile. He went back to the kitchen to order in. I can hear the sound of water running in the shower room from upstairs. I just lay back and force myself not to think about Charlie or anything to do with the Diamonds.

                                                                                                                                               

It is almost 2 in the morning. The sound coming from air-conditioner plus Connor’s loud snores besides me kept me awake. At this point I do not mind to be disturbed. I just lay there, staring at the ceiling. Charlie... I wonder how he has been ever since the saga started. My brain starts sketching the 8 year old Charlie. He always wears expensive suits. I thought it looks way too much on a young boy like Charlie. A normal young boy wears T-shirt and pants and they are normally dirty and smelly. Charlie was never a normal boy. He is surrounded by bodyguards and maids.

Charlie’s parents are never around, not even on his birthday. Since both of them are famous entrepreneurs, they are paranoid about their security as well. Charlie was never let out in the public. He never went to public school or to any other places. The condo is his world. Thank goodness the place is never lacking of books. Books are his eyes and ears. Other than that, he never goes out and experiences the beauty in life. Just like the one he read in numerous books.

Since he was not allowed to go to public school, the Diamonds had hired me to be his teacher. I missed him calling me “Ms. Marbles”. I missed that voice. I have to say, teaching Charlie is the easiest job in the world. He is very resourceful. He always score excellent grades on every of his tests. What a bright young boy... I remember thinking about his future. Does teaching him about life worthy to him at all? Assuming that his parents already plan for his future-to take over Diamond’s family business and continue their legacy.

One day, I was teaching him about plants. All of a sudden, he asked me, “What’s it like putting your feet on the grass?” I was taken aback by the question. I stared at that pale face and then, suddenly it hit me. I realised that I never really care about how the grass feels as it touches my skin. Charlie, despite of his privileged status, missed out on the beauty of life. “I don’t know Charlie...” He looked down and continues to do his work. I knew he was disappointed. I cannot help but felt sorry for him. Unfortunately, our relationship is no more than a teacher-student. I cannot make a further connection with this boy. Oh the dilemma...

Little did I know streams of tear trickling down my cheeks. I looked again at the wall clock. It is almost 4 o’clock. I got up from bed and sit at the edge of it. I wanted to stop empathising Charlie but I just felt so helpless. That question swirled in my mind, repeatedly forcing me to answer it- “what’s it like putting your feet on the grass?” I have the sudden urge to know the answer myself. I turn my head, looking at Connor sleeping so peacefully.

As I slid my feet in slippers, I had to make sure that I will not wake Connor up. Quite like a mice, I sneak out from our bedroom and walked downstairs towards the kitchen. Turning on the backyard lamp, I open to the back door. It is a very exciting and adventurous. Something that book cannot describe well. The night chills does not deter me from stepping on the grass. I took off my slippers and slowly step on the grass. Every single step gave me that feeling of excitement and freedom.

 I finally understand what Charlie did what they did. I knew he had stepped on the grass and let the freedom flow through his body. At that moment, I knew that Charlie had found the question to his answer. The feeling as you step on the grass is the same as the feeling as you find the meaning of life. I smiled thinking about Charlie. Attaboy!

The old man

He had been there for nearly eleven hours. Budin took a long stride, walking towards the cafeteria. Normally he would leave his name tag in his office. Today had been long day and all he need is a distraction from his day job. The sun shone so brightly and its ray cause more beads of sweats to appear visible on Budin's forehead. It is quite a sunny even after 4 o'clock. He walks even faster to get into a more air-conditioned room.

It is quite unfortunate that the cafeteria is opposite to the parking lot. His face turns sour looking at the scene. Budin wonders why the director did not move the cafeteria opposite to the therapy garden. It is far more beautiful and relaxing than hearing car honks here and there. Upon his arrival at the cafeteria, he looks around, searching for empty, secluded spot. He was very lucky to have found one spot, which faces the wall with a mounted TV in front of him.

Not long after he sat down, an Indonesian waiter walks towards his table.

“Salam Doc.. Mau order apa ya?”

Budin smiles. He was somehow amused of the way that young Indonesian pronounced ‘Doc’ which is closely sounds like ‘dog’. He just nods and said, “Satu gelas Nescafe sama...-“  He scan the whole menu in front of him. “..satu roti telur sama satu roti sardine.”

The Indonesian waiter scribbled on his notepad and repeats his orders one more time before he leaves the table. Budin looks up to the TV. They are showing re-runs of Anderson Cooper 360 show. Anderson was talking about Snooki who were asked to do a commencement speech at this one University in the States. Budin shook his head and rolled his eyes constantly. He seems to find it ridiculous, seeing this Snooki, who had no contributions to the society whatsoever, was being asked to do a commencement speech. He already figured how bad the commencement speech is going to be. That is one memorable speech and a stupid one too.

While he delve into the idea of ways Snooki will be getting humanitarian award for her speech, an old man in his 60s approach to his table. Budin was startled when the old man greeted him.

“Assalam tuan..”

“Waalaikumsalam..”

He turns around and saw the old man reach out his hands which looks like he wants to shake hands with Budin. Budin was a bit confused when he shook the old man’s hands. He started to run his memory and trying to recall his face. Do I know him? Pernahkah bejumpa? He started to get anxious and wanting to find out who this man is.

“Ada urang duduk sini?” The old man was referring to the seat opposite to him. Budin just shook his head. All of a sudden, he remembers this man. He always here in the cafeteria and usually, he was not alone. He always had these young children, probably about 8-10 years old, accompany him. Today, he was all alone. Budin do not want to appear rude, he let the old man sat at the same table. His face is still sour. He wants to be left alone. Kan minta bawa becerita kali, he thought.

“Kita kerja sini kah?”

“Aaah... awu tuan.. “ The old man smiles.

“Padantah selalu tejumpa disini..”

“aahh..awu..”

A pause. Budin felt so uncomfortable being asked by a stranger. His eyes looked directly straight at the TV. He secretly hopes for this old man to move to the other table. To his relief, the Indonesian waiter came to their table bringing his food and drinks. He planned to finish his meal early then immediately goes back to work. The old man is looking at him. No. He was not just looking- he was studying him. Budin’s eye tries not to meet the old man’s gaze.

“eh bapak... mau makan yang biasa ya?” The Indonesian waiter also knows this old man. The old man replied, “Ya, yang biasa.. bawa sama air ah,”

“iya.. mana cucu-cucunya pak? Enggak ikut?” Budin looks at both of them. Apparently they have bonded for quite some time. The old man is very friendly, always smiling even when talks.
“Inda.. masih arah rumah anakku yang sorang atu..yang numbur tiga ah..”

“Ohhh.... Ya udah.. saya permit dulu ya sebenter.. Enggak mau apa-apa lagi pak?”

“inda..okay sudah tu..”

“Okay.. pak. Permisi dulu ya Doc.” The young waiter bowed and went straight to the counter.

Budin starts eating his meal as fast as he could. He took a peek at the old man’s face and it seems like the old man preoccupied. He was watching the news, showing President Obama making a speech, addressing the US congress. The old man shook his heads many times.

“More talk, no actions. Problem with USA...haish..”

Not long after he said that, the waiter came up to him and bring his food over. Budin was impressed by the old man’s level of knowledge. It was odd though for an old man, eating kelupis udang and drinks water, to talk about international politics. Budin was intrigued by the old man. He put down his fork. Finally he found someone worthy enough to talk to him.

“I agree with you on that Tuan haji..”

The old man just gives out small chuckles. He was still busy peeling off the oily banana leaves which wrapped around his Kelupis. He looks up and faces Budin.

“Belum haji lagi...“

“nama kita siapa ah?”

“Latif..”

“ahh... but honestly, you think they just talk and no actions? They did more actions than any other countries.”

“Yes they did.. inda dapat dinafikan tu ah.. but I think you are missing the point here-“

“Oh... America did promote democracy in many third world countries. They had set up many organisations that mainly pasal humanitarian..they also-“

“terrorize other nations? Sibuk kan the world affairs? This is only political lah... no concern about the people..”

Budin felt so challenged by this old man. He thought that the old man was too stubborn enough to see the truth. He knows this. He did went to the States several times and enjoy the life of people living in such a free and exciting nation.  It was unfair to say that they did not care about the people.

“They have set up many organizations to help the people in the name of humanity. How can you say for certain, that they have no concern for the people?”

The old man stopped for a while to take a sip of water from his glass. Budin seize that moment to his advantage and continue his debate.

“Despite they live freely, they still care for the people. Yes, lurus kita atu on one thing: this is mostly for politics sake. But you can just say the Americans do not have a heart at all. Politics are politics. They are dirty. Never compare them with the civilians. After the fall of communism, America had made the world more globalized. Also, If it weren’t for them, we would still be backwards.”

Budin felt it was enough to justify his reasons. He had this needs to educate the old man. The old man put down his glass. He seems calm and very laid-back. Budin took off his name tag and put it on the table. The old man watched it from the corner of his eyes and look up again.

“Apa yang kau cakap ani.. all of it from the news.. I watched it too.. I’m not sure what you’re talking about.. I don’t know why you need to mix up all those news macam mix vegetables pulang usulnya.. You still did not get the point.”

The old man points his finger to Budin’s name tag. “You are a doctor. You should know what I was trying to say. Take for example, do you know his name?” His finger now points to the young Indonesian waiter. Budin looks even more confused. Why should he know the name of that Indonesian.

“Inda...”

“My point exactly. Nobody cares about these people. Nada urang bother to look at their face clearly or asked their names. Have you seen his scar on his left forehead?”

“Inda...”

“Did you do the same thing to every patient? Pernah kau betanya nickname bisdiorang? Pernah kau duduk sama diorang, becerita?”

Budin was taken aback by those questions. It was a simple yes or no answer. Yet he is unable to give a definite answer to that. He admits that never asked for patients’ names nor even caring for them. He just does the job as what other doctors would do. Just diagnose their problem.

“I am not saying it is your utmost responsibility to be there for them. You are looking at a much bigger scope.. sampai inda sadar apa yang terjadi with the innocents.. You are looking at one side of the story. What happen to the third, fourth and so on? Do no be easily blinded by what you see on the news, owned by Americans. You should have this question in your head already: why these people die? For what cause?”

He paused again to look at the young Indonesian. Budin just looks even more uncomfortable with the idea of death.

“cuba kau tanya namanya... “ He was referring to the Indonesian. “bawa ia becerita.. get to know him.. maybe you will start to understand that all of the things that you mention before.. are meaningless. You have seen many deaths.. barangkali labih kali daripada yang ku experience... You are a doctor..inda sepatutnya berfikiran sempit..”

The old man finishes his kelupis and took a big gulp. He looked at his watch. It is fifteen minutes after five. Budin was still amazed of had just happen. The old man raises his hand, calling for the young waiter to come to his table. While waiting for the waiter to come to their table, the old man looks at Budin and smiles.

“Bah balik dulu ah.. minta maaf eh mun tesinggung.. kan membuka minda saja..bah assalamualaikum.”

“waalaikumsalam”

The old man stands and paid the waiter and just left. Budin finally felt defeated by a much wiser man. He looks at the waiter’s nametag. His name is Sabilin.

OUTLINE FOR SHORT STORY WEEK 1.

Genre: Tragic/philosophical

Setting: Coffee shop at the general hospital.

Synopsis: Dr. Budin was having his lunch when suddenly this old man came up to his table and wanted to sit at the same table. This is a story of two men; a doctor and a retiree; having a deep conversations about death and how they deal with it.

Week one: The main themes that will be explored are mainly about life and death. My aim is to make a mix of positive and negative impacts to the readers on how they see life and death. This short story will be written in omniscient third person point of view. I thought reflecting myself in the short story will generates more arguments from the readers. At the same time using omniscient POV will allow me giving the inner thoughts of what the characters were thinking and what their actions may lead to. This is very much important for the author to get the message across.

Due date: 2/09/2011