http://www.zcgvaz.com/z/DL.htm

To All Government and Religious Leaders of the World

PEACE!!!

Chapter 3

Dala

http://www.zcgvaz.com/z/DL.htm

Category:  Definitely Fiction

Started 31 December 2007

Last Updated  15 September 2008

2010

http://www.egroups.com/group/wwiiiprevention

Ancient times – Future

     According to local folklore, the world started as water with nothing but darkness and flashes of fire around it.  Then stars appeared to light up the sky.  Some stars fell into the water and formed areas of land.  Land floated everywhere because they were not connected  to anything.  Some collided and formed larger clumps which later broke and formed new connections or became isolated.  Some of the fire from the falling stars was trapped in the earth forming volcanoes which gave the earth light and fire.  Then from the water came plants that grew everywhere and some became tall enough to be trees.  Animals crawled out from some of them and fishes started to swim in the water.  Then a man and a woman came out of separate bamboos that broke.  All grew in size and number to form groups and settled where they pleased.

     Then there were storms and land was deluged by the sea. Some fractured and pieces floated away carrying man, plants and creatures with them to develop in far locations or join other lands.  Man learned to start over again and build new associations with other people of similar or very different physical appearance and built.  Sometimes groups got along well.  On other times, they killed each other.

     Lula walked to her post on an incline overlooking the shore as well as the fields and the homes farther away and closer to the mountain.  It was a beautiful day.  Her son toddled beside her.  The infant slept in the shoulder sling hanging in front of her chest.  She woke up and started sucking.  It was too early for feeding.  She probably just wanted some lambing.  She was getting a little spoiled by constant access to her mother’s breast.  She would be weaned in a short time so she may as well enjoy it till then.  There was a lot of hustle and bustle everywhere she looked/  Young children played with shells and driftwood while their parents worked.  Older girls watched the animals.  Older boys helped in the fields or ran errands.  Some were helping their fathers unload fish they brought in from the sea.  Then her little boy started doing some sort of dancing and clapping.  He was apparently imitating others somewhere.  Lula followed his gaze and the sound of dolphins and whales.  The dolphins were jumping out of the water then turning around to go farther from the shore only to swiftly return and repeat the routine. The animals responded to their calls.  They were not singing.  Dogs barked and ran back and forth.  Large animals started running towards the mountain.  Those tethered to trees tried to break loose.  Successful ones also ran up the mountain.  Lula sensed that something was wrong.  They were instructed to watch for some signs but never saw a combination like this.  Then the sea moved away!  The shore was bared exposing the sand with live fish wiggling and jumping in search of water.  Children laughed and ran to pick them up to try to carry them to the receding sea.

     “TSUNAMIIIII!!!”  Lula’s voice was shrill as a whistle, loud as thunder with the carrying ability of a shell horn.  She yelled the message repeatedly.  “Get the children!  Go up the mountain!  She screamed.  Her son held tightly to her hand.  The baby howled.  Drums carried her warning throughout the island.  A gong sounded followed by urgent ringing of bells.  Some elephants with and without riders turned back to pick up their masters forgotten in their rush to escape.  Parents were scooping up their children.  Dogs were pulling some of them by their clothes or nudging them forward.  Some elephants picked up stranded children with their trunks and carried them up to safety.

     “Tsk!  Tsk!!  Lula calmed Bando as she untied the roped tethering him to the tree.  He knelt just long enough to allow the boy to get up on his back followed by Lula with the baby securely in the sling still bawling.

     Lightning flashed.  Thunder shook the bamboo and  pawid meeting place.  The women and children cried and screamed.  Hari Buwan continued his talk undisturbed.  The sea which initially left later returned several times with vengeance in the form of gigantic waves.  A tsunami washed away much of their island with homes and farms and plants lost to the fury of the unleashed Indian Ocean.  All of the few inhabitants reached safety.  The survivors huddle together for warmth, comfort and words of wisdom from their king.  The tribe’s Elders stood by his side waiting for their turn to speak.  Their dwellings, property and food were gone.  The elders knew the history of the land.  They were about to reveal the strategy agreed upon by the council and approved by their king.

     “Siro, son …”  The king said.  “You are young in years and experience but have shown great philosophical and spiritual maturity even as a child.  I now appoint you as the new Chief Tanda of the Council of Elders.  You shall help your brother Bituin and sister Lawin start a new community.  The head of each of the other four families shall be members to help you.  Bituin, Son, you shall be the ruling Datu of the entire group.  Lawin, my precious and only daughter, I give your hand in marriage to Datu Bituin.”

     The Chief and members of the outgoing Council performed the appropriate legal ceremonies without pomp or celebration.  The king and his ministers are sending the young and able across the raging sea to a new life.  He and the old ones are staying to await their fate and demise in whatever land and subsistence Mother Nature left them.

     “Leave the animals with us.”  The king continued.  “They can help find food in unexpected places.  We older humans can fish and make do with remaining plant life.  Fish should still abound.  Do not grieve for us and we shall try not to worry about you either.”

     The chief of the old council spoke next.  All able individuals including women and even children old enough to perform simple tasks are to help prepare for the exodus.  The strongest including the members of the old council shall sharpen their flying and navigating skills.  Others shall concentrate on furnishing five banka units for the five families to use on their voyage to the nearest island.

     “There has to be one in the direction of the setting sun.”  Another outgoing elder informed them.  We have to find out if it is still there.”

     “My brain senses vibrations just a little bit to the Kanluran from here.  When the sun rises and sets, I should know which direction to advise you to take and how far the island may be.”

     “Next, we need to estimate how long it would take to get there.  Winds and ocean currents may facilitate or prolong travel.  The water is very deep between us and that island.  Boats have disappeared without a trace over there.  Not everyone is blessed with the ability to fly.  The majority will need to take their chances aboard a banka.  Test the children for possible ability not apparent so far.  It may mean the ability to at least transfer to a different vessel in a hurry or go over an obstacle unaided.  Practice your Martial Arts techniques.  They may be handy to fend wild beasts or foes.  Focus on tactics to escape from and disarm the opponents.  Remember that you are going to be strangers in a land that by now belongs to others.  You are going to ask to be accepted not conquer by force.  Quickly impress upon them your benevolent ways and gratitude for their willingness to share their habitat with you.  Learn their language and obey their laws.  Respect their customs and religions.  Honor the status and purity of their women as we uphold those of ours..  Adjust and blend whenever possible.  Win friends and new brothers … not enemies or slaves.   Be assets, not burdens to society.  Your exceptional values and skills should be advantageous to everyone.  Share them voluntarily.  Above all, keep your covenant with the Father.  It is keeping your spirit fit to meet Him at any time without notice, not building a place of worship that counts.  Be aware that man forms his own concept of Who, What and where God is.  His name shall be different wherver you go but remember that He is the same God we worship in Palay.  You can communicate with Him wherever you move to.  There is no need to return to or rebuild the sanctuary you are leaving here just to speak with Him.  He shall protect you no matter how far you go and welcome you back should you stray from His fold temporarily for He knows that man is prone to despair, loss of faith and apostasy.”   

     Coping with a disaster starts with foresight.  Adequate planning of possible actions helps.  Actual implementation of steps including assembling of necessary equipment to carry them out is the key to success.  The king never forgot the past history of the area.  As a young boy listening to his father’s accounts, he promised to be ready for such events should one happen during his reign.  Father and son spent countless hours planning their strategy.  They assembled the Council of elders to study the possible effects of various tricks of Mother Nature on their island kingdom.  Each member was assigned the job of listing the problems they see according to their line of work and special perspective according to special ability or endowment.  They had to figure out simple ways to survive and start over.  Furthermore, they had to devise ways to have the necessary training and supplies for the general population to make such disasters less probable and immediately start relief measures should they indeed happen.

     There is a mountain in the middle of the island.  All necessary structures were built or moved there.  The Ceremonial Center is at the summit and others were spread around it.  Immediately below the Ceremonial Center is a vast network of tunnels to serve as shelters if needed and as storage space for everything the survivors would need in the event of an emergency evacuation or a planned exodus.  A survey of the geographic area has been done and a relief map has been made and kept on the display table of the Social Center.  Gurus trained young children to point out the kingdom and surrounding islands on this map.  They also practiced estimation of distance to different points on the map.  They focus their mind waves to given points and determine their individual ability to fly to these locations.  Of course, not everyone is blessed with sonar divination or flight capability.  The father and the son were proficient in both.  They added flight times to the chart.  Others doubled the estimates on their mental charts.  Others had to figure out less fantastic methods of travel.  Dug out canoes modified for sea voyage and equipped with portable instruments and non perishable supplies were built and kept in the storage gallery called the MUSEO.  Some boats are tied together to accommodate a larger family.  Each unit has an attached canopy for shade and far reaching bamboo outriggers on each side.  Each had a small salt to fresh water distillation system on board.  A mirror, crude megaphone like device, a small drum and gong message system and ancient navigating devices were all systematically placed in their specific stations.  Even a cooking area is included but limited to a clay stove and pot combination.  A supply of firewood and lava rocks are in a special compartment.  The fire starting supplies were in a closed compartment.  Yard and home utensils, bowls, blankets were in their own closed cubicles.  There were no chairs, beds, showers, toilets or clothes. There are packets of seeds, pictograms of how to build structures, illustrations of emergency procedures and steps in production of staples and other needs relating to food, shelter and attire.  Carvings on the inside surfaces of the boats had maps with wind and water current information.  There were wood paddles, a fishing net on a long bamboo handle, bamboo poles, and a harpoon on brackets.

     When everyone was ready, the boat units and cargo were assembled along the beach.  The king said his parting words.

     “Siro, you are their guide, counsel and strength.  Without you, I would not have the courage to send our people to such a voyage and start a new life.  I fully believe that you would all get to your new home safely.  To you I give this rug which your own grandmother wove with the ancient legend of spiritual and physical survival.  May you interpret it and apply it wisely during difficult times.  Bituin, here is my crown.  I place it on your hand and the Council of Elders shall place it on your head when you have successfully established your new home and kingdom.  May you lead, govern and provide your subjects with the same if not better wisdom, conviction and compassion of our ancestors.  I also give you my staff which you need this very instant.  May your decisions and orders be clear, instantaneous and strategically wise as well as successfull.  Lawin, I give you your mother’s crown which you will wear at the same time Bituin does his.  You and Bituin had the same rigorous training reserved for rulers.  Be a constant, dependable, brave and confident partner at all times.  Your support may mean the difference between success and failure, safety and ruin.  All of you, members of our tribe and extended family, I give my promise of prayer for your safety and subsequent well being.  Someday we shall all be together again with our Father and ancestors.”

     The boats pulled off the shore westward.  The king watched till long after the last one disappeared from view.  He was worried but confident that each one would behave and perform according to the high standards they grew up with.  They should eventually do well wherever they may choose or be able to settle.  They shall know the imperfections of life but they have been as well prepared as can be.

     Sometime around 75,000 years ago, according to modern day Archeologists, human beings settled in the Philippines as indirectly evidenced by artifacts.  At about 30,000 BC, there were humans who arrived on foot over a land bridge that still existed at the time.  Some said it was between Indonesia on the West and the Philippines on the East.  A recent study said it was connected to the Asian mainland towards the North.  The existence and disappearance of ancient land bridges are better accepted by now.  Multiple ones may have been present in different locations at different times.  Reports say India was connected to Europe and surrounding places way back in the past.  Aetas of the same appearance and DNA as the Negritos of Indonesia were believed to be the first ones to arrive.  The question is WHEN?  Negritos are believed to be related to aborigines living in Australia and similar to the Blacks in Africa.  The Aetas settled in the jungles of Southern Luzon and Palawan Island.  Aetas are now also in Aklan and nearby islands. 

     About 3,000 years BC, two waves of immigration by sea arrived from Indonesia.  They came aboard dug out canoes called balangay.  When each family settled, they called their home barangay.

     According to Dala’s family, they came sometime after a great disaster after an earth axis shift after the latest North and South Pole reversal almost 25,000 years ago.  They boarded their family balangays and crossed the deep and mysterious Philippine Trench.  After camping in different areas, they found a place in South Central Luzon and called it Barangay Lawin in honor of Datu Bituin’s wife and Dala’s mother who represented everything good and beautiful.  Their new homeland reminded them of Paraiso.  Paraiso is where people live in peace and harmony with God, man and surroundings and sustain all living things and good principles.  They found such potential in Barangay Lawin.  Home is where you make it.  Home and Paraiso can be one. 

     There were four rivers going to the four directions of the wind.  In their small perspective,  Ilog Malaki flowed South directly to the high and beautiful mountain they called Mt. Lawin.  Ilog Maliit branched off it and flowed eastward for a short distance.  Ilog Anak also somehow connected to the mountain and flowed northwestwards where Malaki branched off it and then continued westward to the bay of the beautiful calm sea.  Ilog Maganda is from the North and connected side to side with the beginning of Ilog Anak.

     Mt. Lawin was reserved for ceremonial functions, shelters and MUSEO as in their old island home.  A larger mountain on the East was converted into the palace complex.  The entire clan found room in the multiple natural caverns to set up as their private quarters.  Siro selected a section for the Council of Elders, education, Martial Arts Center and Cultural Center.  There also was a secondary worship center to go with other religious and mystical activity centers.  The women had their own Social Center.  Everyone was happy.

     The seeds they brought with them were planted in different parcels of land North of the mountain.  The area looked like a patchwork of greens, yellows and other colors flanked by green enclosures for the animals that came, stayed and multiplied.  The rivers had a mixture of lilac water lilies with green stalks and leaves around which multiple black and white ducks swam.  These descended from the chicks that hatched from the eggs they carried in the boats.  There were bamboo and Nipa sheds at different areas for shade and relaxation or work.  The biggest structure was the House of God Who they fondly called Amang meaning Father on top of Mt. Lawin.  It had a roof and large doors on all sides kept open except during storms.  A stone alter was inside.  Steep steps lead to the top.  Flowering plants grew around the holy place and along each side of the “Stairs of Amang”.

     One day, bells rang to announce a royal birth.  Dala was born.  The proud parents were overjoyed but slightly concerned.

Dala was born breech first thus revealing the ambiguity of her genitalia from the very beginning of her life.  Then when her chest appeared, a nipple was evident only on the left.

MF.jpg

< Picture View L to R: Female Chromosome (L) – Male Chromosome (R) >

Anatomical Position: Body facing us – TRUE Hermaphrodite Internally

< Right Side – Male Gonad

Left Side – Female Reproductive Tract >

A possible explanation for Immaculate Conception and Virgin Birth

     The midwife had held her breath on and off before the infant’s face and top of the head were delivered.  The baby breathed on her own and cried in a normal voice.  She had the correct number of  limbs, fingers and toes.  Her backbone was not exposed.  Her abdomen was closed.  She had to wait for Siro’s explanations.

     After cutting the cord and other necessary and clean up measures, Siro noticed a lump on the right inguinal area.  The midwife was aware of Inguinal hernias but not the other features. 

       Siro reassured them that the newborn would be fine.  More than that, she was a gift from Amang Himself to the people starting a new life in a foreign land.  As in other cultures particularly those concerned with keeping the bloodline and inheritance clear, consanguinity resulted in differences of anatomy in subsequent generations.  Siro has never seen any but he was well informed of family history and deviations from the usual.  He also has been trained in the art of healing and was familiar with necessary parts of the body and their functions.  He checked the infant thoroughly for any life threatening abnormalities.  Reproductive capacity was the main concern in royal births.  He used his sonar power to also check Dala’s body cavities and internal organs.  He smiled with relief. 

     “This has happened from time to time and is a blessing to families like ours.  She will live normally and be strong and healthy.  She also will be exceptionally gifted in physical arts reserved only for male heirs.  She is both male and female.  She is her own fraternal twin. They merged so completely and seamlessly.  She is not a mythical but a true Amazona!!!”

     “What!?”  Datu Bituin exclaimed perplexedly.

     Lawin cried tears of joy and pride.  According to oral tradition, they were exceptionally strong and endowed with special powers.  They were the legendary female UNTOUCHABLES.

     “Whether or not you have a male heir later, this child can continue our line.”  Siro stated confidently.

     “She can???”

     “Yes.  She has one female gonad on the left side of her abdomen.  The lump above her right thigh is the male gonad.  There is a womb in the correct place with a Fallopian Tube on the left.  The mouth of the womb opens into the top of the urinary bladder medial to the opening of the Ureter draining urine from the left kidney.  The male gonadal system has its drainage tube opening into a sac adjacent and lateral to the right Ureteral tube orifice in the urinary bladder.  The pouch may need to be punctured surgically unless the Creator wills to beat us to it.  Of course she would be disadvantaged by the absence of a female opening and delivery may have to be in more than the usual stages.”

     “Oh no!”

     The baby’s presenting part will enter the bladder from the opening of the womb.  Then, it will have to maneuver lower down and out through the bladder opening.”

     “Who is going to marry such a woman?!”  The midwife asked.

     “That is my domain.”  Datu Bituin declared.  “First let us arrange my coronation.”

     It was done immediately.  Siro and the Council of Elders performed the ceremony without much ceremony.  Lawin also was crowned queen.  Then the members of the kingdom walked to the Ilog Anak.  The royal family was carried on ceremonial biers by special guards.  Per ancient custom of the previously seagoing tribe,  the newborn infant was thrown into the river and relative dove after her.  Siro was the first to surface with the screaming infant.

     “I hereby name you Dala.” He said.   The name was a derivative of the word dalawa meaning two.  “You are the first born princess of the Lawin kingdom and heir to the crown of Hari Bituin pending the birth of a male heir as per custom of this monarchy.”

     As per ancient practice, Dala’s umbilical cord was cut shorter as part of the naming ceremony.  The stump was cauterized using a blade heated by fire from a small burner.  Then an alcohol soaked gauze was applied and covered with a dry one.  Both pieces have been previously steamed and dried in their original wrappers.  A bigkis was used to hold the dressing in place. The dressing and bigkis were changed daily till the stump falls off and healing is complete.   Infant females continued to wear a bigkis around the waist for years to mold the young ladies bosies from the start.  Dala wore hers till Lawin was happy with her shape.

     Almost from then, King Bituin drilled Dala on duties and responsibilities of the ruling monarch.  Siro started teaching her the elements of Law, Religion, Philosophy, Culture, Archeology, Art, Science and Martial Arts even before she could talk or walk.  Lawin did her best to keep her aware of her femininity.  She was always dressed daintily and taught social graces, dance, handicrafts, food presentation, interior and garden design.  She learned to organize the household and later, the kingdom.  She was encouraged to be present to meet leaders of other communities and other dignitaries.  Training for a perfect queen had to start early.

     Then, once more, the bells announced a royal birth.  The much hope for prince looked handsome and healthy but had a defect of the phallus.  By custom. He was to be the king.  Dala was supposed to now be the consort queen.  King Bituin and Queen Lawin were once more worried.

     “He cannot penetrate and she is impenetrable.  It is a marriage arranged by Amang.”  Siro declared.  I, as uncle and Chief Tanda propose that the Crown Prince and Princess be married as soon as possible.”

     “What kind of a life are they going to have?”  The entire kingdom asked.

     “Attitude is the key.”  Siro said.  “They shall be as comfortable with the situation as we are.  Let us all convince ourselves that all would be well.  Reproduction is possible.  So is mutual gratification.  The ancients in the Indus area have much knowledge in that.  I request permission to invite expert counselors when they are a little older.”

     “Permission granted.”

          Siro started training and educating Crown Prince Bulkan.  He was not as fast a learner as Dala and a little prone to mischief.  King Bituin tried to be strict with his son but could not help letting him get away with what he considered innocent pranks by a young boy.  Lawin was more concerned.

     Relatives took turns trying to invite Dala to their homes or farms to give her a break once in a while.  She needed to have a semblance of normal childhood.  She played with other children and animals and associated with members of the non-ruling class.  She went fishing, swimming and even ate with her hands under the nipa sheds in the farms or at the riverside.  The adults laughed when she did non-ladylike activities such as catching frogs and riding on carabaos.  She even learned to paddle a banka in river traffic during rush hours.  King Bituin was a little perturbed.  Queen Lawin reassured him and drilled her some more on how to sit, walk, curtsy like a lady of courtly upbringing should.  She had her own brand of grace and strength but with the curiosity, daring, will and stubbornness of a boy.  Siro shrugged his shoulders.

     One day, Siro took down the rug that was hanging from the wall of the Council of Elders Chamber.  Dala looked at it curiously as Siro spread it on the floor.  She was told previously that her grandmother made it with a legend woven in the design.  Perhaps it was time for her to know more rules about royalty.  Bulkan will have his turn to listen to this some other time.  This must be very important or for females only.

     To the uninitiated, it was simply an old mat made from the hair of different animals to produce different colored outlines.  Siro was obviously not planning to demonstrate how to make one.  He did not bring the necessary materials to work with.  Dala was relieved.  It was thicker and more plush than usual and felt cushiony under her hand.  It had a rich background.  There was something like a gold arrow bent and folded at two points then partially stretched out forming a Z track.  There was a green one superimposed on it running vertically at the center.  There were symbols and what looked like colored, uniquely shaped stones at different areas.  The border had a pattern that seemed like a system of passageways that do not connect with one another.  A flower marked the four directions.  It was beautiful but quite a puzzle. 

     “Can you figure out what it is?”  Siro asked.

     “A secret way to get somewhere.”  Dala replied.

     “Where?”

     “To the seventh haven.”

     “What made you think so?”

     “Mother said you would show me the way when I have attained the age of reason.  I was expecting something difficult to understand.  This must be it.”

     “Right!”

     “Remember that I can repeat the instructions as many times as you need me to.  Be sure to ask all the questions you want as necessary.  If I do not know the answer, I shall consult others.”

     “I thought you knew all the answers.”

     “I only know those that are possible to know by man.  Only God knows all.  Man is not infallible but may quote the Infallible One.  In which case, man may not still know but is reassured that it is the answer.”    

     “When do we get to know for sure?”

     “When we get face to face with God and He tells us Himself.”

     “When is that?”

     “When we reach the seventh haven.”

     “Uuuggghhhh!”

     Siro began to relate the legend.  The Son God heard the subjects’ cry for help while keeping His post in the first haven at the upper shaft of the green or upper level arrow located  two levels above the Womb of the Earth.  This was not the first time.  It may be easier to delegate future relief operations to Seraphims and Cherubims.  He decided to give mankind one more chance for personalized attention.  He stood up looking splendidly pure, crystalline and brilliant as only the most Precious  Divine Diamond could.  He is the only one strong enough to reshape even the hardest creature His Father created.  He is the Alpha and the Omega, the Way and the Life, the Wonderful Counselor and the Morning Star.

     He went towards the North flower to the second haven or the sapphire abode of His Father.  It was touching the tip of the North end of the green arrow.  It shone in different colors emanating from different jewels of the same family.  The sapphire abode can change its spectacular hues at the Father’s will.  The Father entrusted the Son with the infinite knowledge and powers of His rainbow and gave His blessing.  The Son proceeded to navigate to the third haven which by then was the Northwest end of the gold  or lower level arrow.  The Son found His way to the secret chamber from which he took out the emerald light and the pyramid.  He instructed the clergy, rulers, healers and scientists to administer their areas of expertise properly to ensure continuity and enhancement of spiritual and physical wellbeing.  He gave them the approval to partake of the Bread of Life.   He then retraced His steps and went to the Northeast bend of the gold arrow which was the fourth haven.  He found the jasper lamp and the conjoined instrument to describe perfect circles and measure distances and spatial relationships relative to specific locations within a projected circle.  He trained them in the art of building and working together in different layers of responsibility according to capability and authority.  Henceforth, a man and a woman joined together shall define the family structure which is the basic unit of society  the physical and spiritual nature of  which the partnership would determine.  Then He made His exit and proceeded to the former fifth haven which has become the South West bend of the gold arrow.  Here He searched for the topaz lamp.  The people broke the fragile treasure in their greed for personal ownership.  They soon found out that not all glittering jeweled objects are gold.  “We’re sorry!”  They cried.  The Son brought out the Sacred Deogram first.  On it was inscribed the layout of the whole earth that then needed to be restructured.  “Please help us, Lord.”  They pleaded.  With a sigh the Son started reproducing a topaz lamp.  Its yellow light was then more precious than gold and they saw clearly the wonder and enormity of the job that lay ahead.  Their suspicion of each other’s false faith and possible heresies previously blurred the big picture.  Groups paid more attention to grievances and false proofs of being the authentic ones.  Wars were actually waged to establish places of worship reserved by man to his own sect.  Now they are ready to sort out differences and unite in the service of the same God they called by different names.  Once more, the Son retraced His steps and went to the South East bend of the gold arrow or sixth haven which was not in  too bad a shape for a disaster area.  Beside the red glow of the ruby lamp was the Sacred Feminine shedding bloody tears of Penance and imploring the Lord for mercy for all mankind.  She produced a golden four petal flower from her purse.  It was the proof of Penance and Atonement undertaken by humanity.  The Son accepted it graciously and descended to the Womb of the Earth under the inclined section of the gold arrow where a lamp alternately flashed a red and blue light from the same source.  The Father’s patience with man’s performance was wearing thin.  The Son touched the door to the Womb of the Earth which opened for Him.  He entered and placed the golden bloom in one receptacle of the Supreme Justice’ balance scale.  It was not enough to offset the transgressions of man in the other receptacle.  He added a piece chipped from the diamond on His chest.  It more than tipped the balance in man’s favor.  Only the Son can appease the Father.  The flashing light blended to a royal purple.  

     Then a voice was heard by all humanity.  “Son, remember that You can only do this a few times.  Su asti Ka is more than sufficient.  However, man should at least try.  Su asti SILA….THEY have to be good.”

     “Opo, Ama…  Yes, Father.”  The Son replied.

     He turned around and ascended to where the Great Spirit stood guard marked by the $outh flower to report that the job was done.  The Great Spirit accepted the rainbow.  The Son retreated towards the Amethyst glow  at the South shaft of the green arrow to stay in the seventh haven.  For the next 25,000 years, He and the Great Spirit shall stay at the Southern hemisphere as the earth has changed polarity.  The angels and saints in the East and West abodes volunteered to help control the tilt of the earth’s axis.

     Then the Son’s voice was heard by all.  “Su asti KAYO.  YOU ALL be good.”

     The Son sighed as He turned off the Amethyst lamp and the Swastika night light turned on.  “Opo, Panginoon … Yes, Lord.”  He heard the people say.

     Back in the sixth haven, the Sacred Feminine whispered:  “Salamat, Anak… Thank You, Son.”  She then resumed her continued intercession for the human race.

     “Salamat po, Ina …Thank you, Mother.”  The Son and some grateful ones said.

     Years later, the queen found out that she was carrying another royal heir and focused on that forthcoming event.  One day, she tripped over a snake that Bulkan left in her room.  That same day, she started experiencing severe abdominal pain.  The baby was not due for two more months.  She had a little issue of blood.  Then she felt faint and was dizzy.  Her mother also had problems with her third pregnancy but had more bleeding and no pain at all.  She had no uterine contractions signaling possible early labor.  The afterbirth was apparently attached too low in the womb and bled at the inferior edge.  Queen Lawin had severe muscular tightening of the womb occurring frequently.  King Bituin was summoned to leave a meeting with distinguished guests.  Queen Lawin was in serious trouble.  King Bituin thought of their mother’s death and loss of their infant brother.  The bells rang for Queen Lawin.  The message was not a happy one.  The entire kingdom stopped all activity to pray for the queen and the unborn child.  Their efforts did not help.  Queen Lawin passed away within a few hours.  Siro cut through her lower abdomen and extracted the limp, seemingly lifeless infant out of the dead queen’s womb.  He was a perfect little baby prince.   The afterbirth had prematurely separated from the wall of the mother’s womb cutting off the blood supply from the mother.  Siro named him Lakas hoping the name would give him the strength he needed to revive.  He was born too early and his lungs were not equipped with the proper liquids to allow elasticity to expand and facilitate exchange of good and bad air through the walls of the balloons of his lungs.  It was an extra sad day when the kingdom laid the corpses of the  mother and infant in the royal pyre.  Their spirits were released to the realm of their ancestors.

     King Bituin was never the same again.

     “Brother, you have to be strong.”  Siro said.  “The children are too young to rule.”

     “Brother, you are not.”  King Bituin replied.

     The boy king Bulkan, the adolescent Queen Dala, Regent Siro and the rest of the kingdom said goodbye to their beloved king on one stormy day.  Life is not a fairytale.  It is a cycle of events.  The younger ones simply move on to center stage vacated by the senior ones.  One thing very different between this generation and the previous one is the lack of maturity and security of the king.  The young queen was more able to carry on with her duties aided by consultation with the Council of Elders and her uncle.  The Regent did not simply dictate a course of action.  He listened to facts laid out by Dala and her proposed plans.  He either concurred or presented possible alternatives.  Bulkan listened listlessly.  After a few years, he increased his capacity to analyze situations by himself and started to govern under Siro’s guidance.  Siro was determined to make them model and independent decision makers.  In a few years he hopefully can retire from being Regent.  Of course he was still going to be the Chief Elder.  Above all, he was their uncle.

     King Bulkan grew up to be  quite imaginative and inventive.  He proposed improvements that the Council of Elders agreed with except for one.  He wanted to redesign Mt. Lawin.  Reluctantly, they gave in.  Sentimental values had to be replaced with practical ones specially if they lead to improvement.

     He built planting terraces and a spiral ramp to the summit.  Carabaos pulled bamboo sleds to the top.  A running water system was implemented using a huge water wheel  with buckets driven by river flow current to load water into a reservoir on top of the mountain .  The new palace was built beside it.  It boasted cooking ovens, incubators for balut,  flushing toilets, baths  and sinks with drains emptying into the river.  A  moat encircled Mt. Lawin.  A great balcony for public appearances was the most prominent part of the edifice.  Large windows were present to view the different directions of the kingdom and for enjoyment of the cool breeze.  The altar to Amang was removed.  A ceremonial center with an altar was constructed in the old palace complex.  Siro and the Council of Elders reluctantly agreed with the last one in exchange for the provision to retain the shelters and MUSEO close to the top.  The reason for leaving their old home was not yet forgotten.

     Amidst all the flurry of construction, Dala consulted Siro about some unfamiliar symptoms she was having.  The women helpers were not quite sure what they may be due to.  She had pain in the left lower quadrant of the abdomen radiating to the left shoulder.  That went away but was followed by a slight tinge of blood in her urine.  Then she had a slightly turbid urine instead.  That went away too.  Now the temperature chart that Siro wanted her to fill up daily was looking slightly different.

     “Is your breast sore?”  He asked.

     “Not really.”  She replied.

     “When was the last time you had a flow of bloody urine that lasted a few days?”

     “Just a little more than two weeks ago.”

     Siro scrutinized the temperature chart.  “Continue recording very accurately and at the right time.”  He recommended.

     A week later, Dala returned as advised with the chart.  The temperature elevation was sustained.  Siro hugged her.  “My dear niece, I may become a granduncle.”

     “How!?”

     “You were too young to remember everything I said or even catch everything because I was pounding information in your brain as fast as possible.  I knew there was very little time for you to digest every detail.  Once more … You have both female and male reproductive systems.  Each one came from the twin eggs you developed from.  One was male.  The other was female.  They were meant to be one boy baby and the other a female baby called fraternal twins because they came from two separate eggs that were fertilized one after the other by two different spermatozoa.  They just happened to be in the same place when it happened.  Usually, they develop in separate bags inside the womb.  Your two halves were in the same envelope so to speak with nothing to separate your sticky selves.  They got stuck together.  At least they were both heads up.”

     Dala giggled. 

     “Luckily they were also opposite halves each facing the correct direction instead of being both left or right.”

     “What happened to the missing halves”  Dala asked worriedly.

     “They simply did not develop probably because they were squeezed hard enough and not able to receive enough blood and other nutrients for growth.  I suspect, though, that your brain may be a little more endowed than that of a regular singleton.  That is a plus.  Do not worry about it.”

     “Will the baby be a combination also?”

     “This is so rare.  The odds of such occurring  in two successive generations is even lower.  I suspect, though, that it has happened from time to time and may explain virgin births in the same family in history.  When considered, knowledge of this unusual human capability may dispel controversy that has led to disbelief and wars.”

     “How do we check if this baby is from one or two ova?”

     “We can start measuring the hormone level in your urine at different times.  If it rises too fast, we can suspect a multiple gestation to start with.  Then I can check by sonar at different stages to see how many gestational sacs develop and later, how many embryos per sac do.  As the baby grows, we can determine number of some organs but not all.  The reproductive organs are difficult to see and decipher as to gender and discreteness of anatomy.  The Urinary and Reproductive systems develop from the same anlage and tend to be somewhat blended together in some cases as we now know.  The details can be impossible to outline.  After the baby is born we can actually see for ourselves with our naked eyes but may still need to check internally by sonar.  However, it is behavior and function that would really tell us the truth.  We do not want to subject the baby to more examinations than necessary.  We shall have to do only a few.”

     “Will it hurt the baby?”

     “I do not know for sure.  Dolphins and whales live in environments full of sonar but they may have special adaptation to prevent injury.”

     ”I promise not to insist on a show.”

     The kingdom rejoiced.  Bulkan was happy to hear that an heir is coming.  One if not the chief function of a king is to produce an heir.  He ordered a grand celebration.  Dignitaries came to share the kingdom’s joy.  Then it hit!  Dala deserved all the credit.  He paid attention to what the subjects said.  What did they know?  What did they think of him?  How much regard did they have for his masculinity?

     Siro was quick to counsel him.  Though Dala had the sources of both sperm and egg,  It was his participation in nuptial bliss that orchestrated her bodily functions that led to her concurrent ovulation and spontaneous rupture of the spermatic sac that was growing in size in the urinary bladder.   Spermatozoan thus became available to swin up to the cervix close to the left ureteral orifice, up the uterus and then the lateral portion of the Fallopian tube where the egg was waiting.  Of course, Siro cannot absolutely be sure of the actual sequence of events but Dala’s account point to that likelihood.  Bulkan should be extremely proud of himself and he was.

     “I cannot wait to see our boy.”  He said.

     “What makes you think the baby would be a boy?  Siro asked.

     “You once said that a pregnancy occurring right at the time of ovulation is more likely to result in a male offspring.”

     “Yes, I did say that.”  Siro admitted.

     “Perhaps we should build a sanctuary for eagles.”  Bulkan suggested.

     “What?  Why?”  Dala asked.

     “ The prince can see them and emulate them.  We should have one close by.”

      “What makes you think that a sanctuary for eagles is possible to be built here?”

     “There have been sightings up in the higher mountains east of us.  They can survive here.”

     “Yes, but just a rare one every so often can mean they just pass through and get going to a more suitable location.”

     “All the more we should think of a local breeding ground for them. “  Bulkan persisted.   “We can catch them elsewhere and transport them here.”

     “They need a forest with very tall and open top trees with plenty of monkeys, lemurs, fruit bats and other food.  Besides, it may entail fencing them for security.  That simply put is keeping them in a cage.  Imprisoned beings of any kind do not thrive well in such environments.  They may reproduce and grow but will not develop their survival skills properly.  By the time the next generation is released to the environment, the new ones may be too dependent on artificial support.”

          The Council of Elders did not agree.  Furthermore, they worried about pets or even children being preys.  Dala was worried about how to keep them away from the baby.  She argued that there was no need to build another sanctuary if occasional eagles managed to show up once in a while.  That meant that there was a viable breeding ground not too far away and that the kingdom was within their flight territory.  The main focus should be to preserve that existing sanctuary.  They can encourage steps to control over logging and promote reforestation.  The mountains specially would benefit from these measures and would be more likely to be free from damaging landslides.  One of the reasons their father chose this area was the presence of those elevated areas at the North and Northeastern part of the island where a barrier was needed against high tidal waves.

      Bulkan changed his mind.  He dreamed of one more project after another.  He thought of fish and shrimp filters along the river banks.  Those would be useful and easy to set up.  The Council of Elders happily commissioned young men to work on the project.  They approved more projects to keep Bulkan happy.

     The expected day arrived and ran into the night.  It was a long labor as Siro was afraid of.  After the usual series of contractions of the uterus to dilate the cervix and deliver the baby’s head through the first obstacle, everyone had the same question.

     What would it take to further lower the head and dilate the urethra to fimally accomplish birth to the outside world?  Siro was sure it would happen the same way the infant’s head manage to pass beyond the cervical opening.  His bigger concern was whether or not the urethra would be completely blocked due to intrinsic  pressure by a bony structure on it and how long Dala can stand that.  He may have to drain the bladder from outside through the abdominal wall above the pubic bone.  Worse still, would there be lacerations causing irreparable damage forever causing urinary leakage or even complete incontinence?  Then after all that, they still have to worry about the rest of the baby’s anatomy.  Of course, the preferred gender would be male.  To Siro, it did not matter.  A normal baby is all he wanted.  Close to the following morning, he was relieved to see for himself a screaming … no, screeching baby boy.

     “Please step outside for a while.”  Siro advised Bulkan.

     The baby quieted down.  The midwife laughed.  Siro frowned.  Dala was puzzled.  Thus Sigaw earned his name.  Siro, once more was the first to surface from the river.  This time, he did so with his healthy grandnephew.

     Bulkan came up with more improvements for the kingdom.  Each one was more grandiose than the previous one.  The entire population helped voluntarily and happily at first.  Then they started to question the wisdom of what they believed to be unnecessary and overly expensive undertakings. The treasury was being drained of reserved funds.  The subjects started to worry about the fate of the economy.  Damaged emergence equipment were not being replaced.  Their pay did not come on time.  When taxes were raised to finance defense preparations, the subjects tried to send delegates to meetings of the Council of Elders repeatedly till Bulkan himself had to explain his strategy.  Dala cautioned Bulkan about his management of the economy and overspending for non-essential items.  Siro warned him that dissatisfaction of the subjects can result in less productivity, worse economic picture, unrest and possible rebellion.

     Bulkan paid attention but but Dilim has controlled his spirit by then.  He was getting more greedy for power and less fair.  He was in a foul mood quite often.  Inability to correct the situation too late made him angry.  Dilim kept him from being angry at himself.  Bulkan started to direct his rage towards his subjects and later, his own family.  Sigaw has grown to be a handsome, strong, intelligent boy in the meantime.  He loved to listen to Siro, practice Martial Arts techniques and fly high above the kingdom.  Dala and Siro joined him often.  Dala grounded herself when ever the other two decided to have a raise.

     “See!  I told you we should have an eagle sanctuary here.”  Bulkan told Dala.

     “What for?  We already have one.  There are two eagles up there right now.”  Dala said referring to her uncle and her son.  “We need to ask our people to refrain from using the kaingin system to rapidly clear land for farming.  The so called controlled burn apparently affected larger areas than intended.  The mountains look like heads with multiple bald spots and sores on the scalp.  A lot of trees were lost.  We have to replace them.”

     “No problem.  What kind of trees were those?”

     “I don’t know but fruit trees would be nice to have.  I love mangoes, guavas and lanzones.”

     “Will they not be out of place with the surroundings?

     There already is an odd mix of Pine and Coconut trees together.  It will not make it much stranger to have exotic ones like langka, rambutan and rattan.”

     “How about durian?”

     “Some people may complain of the smell.   Ilang-ilang and Sampaguita might help tone down the unwelcome odor and also be used for Aroma Therapy.  Other medicinal plants may be good.”

     “Like what?”

     “Ask Uncle Siro.  He wanted to expand our Pharmacy.  He can have different areas for different divisions of the Pharmacopea already outlined by the accidental burns.”

     There were talks about deposing the king.  Siro tried very hard to calm the subjects.  Bulkan became apprehensive and short tempered.  Dilim kept building up his ego.  Sigaw  had more and more screaming fits.  Siro noticed hat they seemed to happen more when Bulkan was around.  The latter’s mood swings were affecting the child.  Then the screaming happened when Dala felt a strange presence in the room whether or not Bulkan was there.  Later she felt a coldness when the adverse spirit was around and was quick to call her mother to scare it away.  The strategy worked for a while.  Dala taught Sigaw to scream “Grandmaaaa!!!”

     The restlessness of the people escalated.  Fearful of being overthrown, Bulkan increased the size and training of the Royal Contingent.  He started putting more effort and lavish spending on weapons and rewards for those who pledged to support him in case of trouble.  Then he focused on weapons of widespread and intense destruction to use supposedly on invading neighbors or armies from across the sea.  He was getting ready for outside troops who may aid his own people against him.   He was close to actually using them to demonstrate his might when a group of dissenters caused a disturbance.  Siro was able to stop him.  In the meantime, the Defense budget used up most of the treasury.  There was a compensatory cut on other expenditures including commerce, education, diplomatic relations and activities vital to the kingdom’s existence such as agriculture, fishery, engineering and environmental protection.

     “I understand the need to pay special attention to the military.”  Siro said.  “Our culture has that as one of our priorities but only for defense and survival in harsh environment.  Both males and females even with presumed disabilities get their basic and higher education and training in the military.  We can only be as fast as the slowest and as strong as the weakest in the group.  Emphasis was on enabling the less able to improve our overall efficiency and improve the chance for individual survival and success.  Their families provide the secrets of their trades.  The standards of discipline, education and morals are exceptionally high in such a setting.  The physical and mental alertness are superb.  Spirituality is enhanced and actually developed to assist us in all activities of life.  It was that which carried us through our tragedies and there were plenty.  Inventions resulted from our military experiences.  All aspects of higher learning were developed to the highest degree.  Courage, Integrity and Loyalty flowed in our veins and warded off corruption and defection.  Your spoiled battalion may be your downfall.”

     “No one listens to me.”  Bulkan complained.

     “It is because you simply state what you wish to be done without the proper adequate support for the necessity for implementation.”  Dala said.  “Your discussion is one sided provoking heated argument.”

     “We debate the issues.”  Bulkan countered.

     “Debate means intelligent gentlemanly presentation of the logic of each side not the belligerent insulting of the opponent or the invitation for listeners to take up sides according to affiliation rather than benefit for the entire group.  The purpose is not to win the verbal battle but to convince others that your reasoning is worth considering.  Then the group can weigh the pros and cons and total the net benefit it can contribute to society.”

     One day, a delegation appeared before Siro in the Council of Elders Chamber.  They were giving him notice that the people had enough of Bulkan’s mismanagement and are concerned enough about the future of their children and would demand the abdication of King Bulkan.

     “Have you considered how Queen Dala would feel about this?”

     “We have discussed it with her and she opposed.   It is precisely her welfare and that of the prince that prompted us to take action.  She and the boy deserve a chance to rule according to the tradition of the family.”

     Siro was unable to dissuade them.  They plan to formally present their request to the king during the meeting scheduled within the hour.  Siro flew to the royal residence at the top of the mountain.  Bulkan was already standing at the balcony.  Siro advised Dala to keep Sigaw and herself safe indoors.  Members of the Royal Contingent waited at the foot of the mountain and along the ramp leading to the summit.  The delegation that spoke to him earlier approached.  Bulkan braced himself.  Siro requested that he do the talking.  Bulkan refused.  Dilim was firing up his ego.  Sigaw had started to scream for Grandma.

     Members of the delegation wore their military attire.  They had a blue band around both arms to differentiate them from the royal guards.  More royal guards showed up and lined up in front of the base of the mountain.  Some stepped out into the balcony joining Bulkan and Siro.  Others stood on the smaller balconies and some looked out from windows.  Dilim was the only happy one.  Sigaw was screeching by then.

     The leader of the delegation spoke calmly, firmly and respectfully explaining their request and reasons for it.  It was clear that if the king did not listen, the request would turn to a demand for his abdication.  Further refusal, to their regret, shall be met with force.  Bulkan stubbornly refused.  He derived courage from the presence of his royal guards.  The leader of the delegation sadly delivered the ultimatum.  Both sides braced themselves.  Bulkan held his stance.  He shall remain the ruling king.

     “Brothers …”  The leader of the Royal Contingent spoke.  “We do not wish to harm you but it is our sworn duty to protect the king.  We have to do what we pledged to do so please forgive us.”

     “My beloved family …”  Siro started … “The spirits of our elders are sadly watching us today.  They raised us to love each other as ourselves and care for each other of the same blood.   Neither side wants to harm the other.  It is a matter of concern for the kingdom by one side and duty by the other.  It is innocent blood of your blood that is going to flow unnecessarily on the land selected by our former king and the one before him to be our safe haven.  It has ceased to be so because we are going to change it to the land of our demise which was not their plan nor wish.  I beg you to reconsider.”

     “We have already done so many times.  Our blood is now on the head of the king the stubbornness of whom shall forever haunt him.”

     “Very well.”  Siro replied.  It shall be done with fairness.  All women and children should go to the new shelters near the Ceremonial Center and lock themselves in.”

     “They have already done so.”

     “Instead of losing all of you, we shall have a representative from each side.  They will fight according to rules.  I shall stop the process before one gets killed.  Is that understood?”

     “Yes, Siro, Chief Tanda.”

     “Choose your weapon.”

     “According to tradition, I choose bare hands and feet.”

     “I choose the same.”

     The opponents stood together, bowed to both groups, to Siro and the king and then to each other.  This would be a gentlemanly clash of muscles, bones and wits.  Though no man made weapons were to be  used, it can actually be deadlier than standard conflict.  Each one was exceptionally well trained in the art.  It was Siro’s responsibility to stop the action at the right time.  If Siro intervened too late it would be a disaster that Siro will have to live with but only one of the opponents shall remember.

     Dilim knew the probable outcome.  The royal guards have been lax in training for special classic old fashioned skills.  They preferred modern inventions that did most of the work automatically with little mastery required.  He grabbed Sigaw from Dala.  The boy screamed bloody murder.  Dala stood helplessly as Dilim held a knife with the point pressed against the boy’s neck.

     “Grandmaaa!!!”

     Bulkan rushed into the room. 

     “No!  Not my son!”  He pleaded. 

    “Your son!?”  Dilim’s cynical laughter was heard by all.

     A flapping of gigantic wings surprised Dilim.  It approached at top speed distracting him enough for Dala to get hold of the boy’s hand.  Dilim knew what the sound was due to.  He struck the blade of the knife against a boulder supporting an indoor planter.  Siro felt the explosion before it happened.

     “Dala!  Sigaw!  Jump out!”  He shouted as he flew away.

     The people saw a huge bird flying in from the East.   A fireball leaped up right into the breast of the bird as the mountain exploded.  They saw debris, flames and smoke rise in separate mushroom clouds.  The mountain collapsed.  The flapping of wings was lost in the sounds of the volcanic eruption.  However, they heard a monstrous roar of a beast.

    “Get into the boy!”  It yelled.

     Forewarned a few seconds before the others, Siro was able to fly away and survey the scene from a distance.  The smoke, mixture of gases and heat were suffocating.  He flew to approximately where Dala and Sigaw may have fallen if they had successfully exited on time.  He groped around feeling the different pieces of materials and rocks on the ground.  He had to use his sonar ability to identify humans.  There was a heartbeat somewhere.  Carefully, he strained to pinpoint the source of the signal.  There was a feeble one close to the first one.  He had to reach them quickly or they will not survive.  Dala craweled towards him pulling Sigaw as she tried to get out of the smoky ruins.  She coughed and choked.  Sigaw made no sound.

     “This way!”  He shouted.  “Keep coming forward … a little to your right.  Come on … Faster! … Don’t stop … You’ll make it!”

     Siro felt Bulkan’s hand among the rocks and sensed no life activity of any kind.  The spirit has gone elsewhere.  People projected Siro’s path and cleared debris ahead of him.  They found Sigaw limp and not breathing.  One soldier started blowing into the boy’s nose and mouth.  Another started sending brain waves while a third rescuer started chanting messages to Sigaw’s heart at twice the speed of his own heartbeat.

     “Tibok, tibok, tibok …”

     Siro pulled Dala out.  She was barely alive.  He flew Dala to the Healing Center.  The soldiers followed with Sigaw on someone’s arms.  All rescuers chanted  Tibok!  Tibok!  Tibok!

     The other Elders and the experienced hilots rushed to the Healing Center and prepared to perform their various duties in the face of mass injuries in the kingdom.  The soldiers did the initial triage and brought those with more critical problems to the appropriate section of the center.  Those who did not have life threatening conditions were seated in the front room. Those with minor wounds were counseled on appropriate care for their problems and provided with necessary supplies to use at home.  The hilots examined the more seriously hurt and planned steps to follow including urgent attention by the appropriate Elder experienced in the type of injury sustained.  Others were assigned skeletal injury providers to have broken bones stabilized and wounds cleansed approximated together and dressed.  Appropriate supplies of salves and concoctions for pain and healing were provided.  Each one was told how soon to report back to them as well as advised to return for worrisome symptoms.  Siro was assisted by the most experienced Elders.  They had their hands full.

     Dala and Sigaw were both critically injured and stayed in unstable condition.  Their hearts had to be supported by brain waves from volunteers who took shifts to chant “Tibok, tibok, tibok… whenever necessary to increase the strength and rate and regulate rhythm of cardiac activity.  There were two teams, each with a leader capable of sonar perception.  One group monitored Dala’s heart.  The other watched Sigaw’s.  Later, it was noted that Sigaw’s heart followed Dala’s heart activity.  Siro directed the groups to coordinate their chanting in accordance to Dala’s heartbeat pattern.  Later, one team watched while the other took a nap.  Both injured individuals maintained spontaneous breathing after initial erratic activity.  Hands and feet were cold and bluish.  The foot ends of the beds were elevated to encourage preferential flow of blood to the brain and heart.  Additionally, Dala and Sigaw’s arms and legs were propped on pillows.  Broken bones were set and stabilized one at a time.  Wounds had to be cleaned and dressed.  Placental membranes were used to cover burned areas and to approximate gaping wounds.  Siro requested midwives to bring more of them in as rapidly as they became available.  They were rinsed with and saved in boiled mildly salted water.  Hilots prepared boiled broth and fluids with salt and herbals under the Elders’ direction.  They moistened Dala and Sigaw’s lips with them and infused the prescribed amounts per rectum.  Women volunteers washed used instruments, vessels and linen.  Others cleaned spills on surfaces as fast as they appeared.  Those not physically involved in action prayed in the front room, the ceremonial center or at home.

     “Hail to our queen and prince.  Long life to our queen and prince!  How?”  They cried.

     It was a very long day and night.

      “Sigaw!  Go without me!  Jump!  Now!!!”  Dala screamed during the second night.   She was surprised to see Siro’s smiling face along with a hilot and an Elder.

     “Where is Sigaw?”

     “On the papag to your right.”  Siro informed her.  “He is still in herb induced coma to give his little body more time to cope with his problems under slow metabolism.  We want his reserves to last longer.  We’ll wake him up later when he recovers enough and can be expected to lie still to prevent reopening his internal wounds and restart bleeding.”  Siro explained.  “Now go back to sleep.  We have things in control.”

     Siro had purposely lightened Dala’s sedation to let her know that all is relatively well.  Otherwise, her subconscious will not conform with healing waves.  The hilot added more of the herbal anesthetic and hypnotic preparation to the broth.  Dala took the remedy trustingly and rested more peacefully.  The chanting groups have been released earlier to allow them much needed recuperation.  The kingdom was quiet except for the sound of the demolition brigade attempting to clear the debris from the explosion.  It was still burning slowly.  The smoke has started to clear.  The smell of rotten eggs was still very strong.  The breeze kept circulating it throughout the royal domain.  It was impossible to even begin to forget and much less … to forgive.

     “You have to learn to forgive Bulkan.”  Siro advised when Dala was awake again and in less physical pain.  “He has learned his lesson but is powerless to correct his mistake.  Worse, he cannot escape from the bondage of his own doing till Dilim releases him or is forced to release him.  Sigaw is similarly trapped in this arrangement as the innocent cell confining the prisoner making him also a prisoner outside but unable to break away and flee.” 

     “Where do I stand?”  Dala asked.

     “You are the observer and messenger to the outside.  However, you are not detached from the prisoners.  Your life and Sigaw’s life are dependent on each other.  Bulkan’s life is dependent on Sigaw’s.  Dilim controls Bulkan who controls Sigaw.  Dilim has to ultimately rule through Sigaw or you.  You can bet that he will not cease to want to do so and will do everything to make it so.”

     “Then we can simply wipe out the kingdom from existence.”  Dala concluded.

     “It is not that simple.  Dilim has great ambition.  He wants to rule the whole earth and win the souls of all humanity for his fiery domain at the end of time.”

     “How soon will this happen?”

     “Not soon enough.  Time is relative.  Man’s time is progressively faster and units correspondingly shorter so years turn over very quickly towards the end but we belong to the old schedule.  God is timeless.  Years may mean eons.  Only the Father knows.  He can make it sooner or later depending on His happiness or unhappiness with humankind.”

     “This can last for a day or forever!”

     “Yes.”

     Dala and Sigaw continued to recuperate.  Siro started to fix the Lungga for them to move into.  He also decided to consecrate the place to the Father to plead for his protection of the royal mother and son.  In his brain, he sketched the details of what he planned to do.  Then, he sprinkled the four corners with the blessed tears Queen Lawin shed a long time ago and saved in a cruet.  Then he lighted the Amethyst lamp to invoke the spirit of Peace and Harmony.  Next he rolled out a rug which apparently was a codex with the design depicting the layout of the changes he had to do.  It was a replica of the rug in the Council of Elders.  There was no obvious mark to provide clues or instructions but words were not needed.  He attached it to the center of the main wall.  It would serve as a floor map of the place later.

     Dala assigned chambers to those allowed to enter the sanctuary.  Sigaw stays in the Womb of the Earth where he shall be surrounded by family members and God.  The Scale of the Divine Justice shall remain there to show the balance of good and evil in the chamber proving that Sigaw is an innocent victim of undesirable agents.  Only those assigned chambers to stay in can enter the complex.  Unfortunately, Bulkan is part of the family and can slip into the chambers.  His spirit resides in Sigaw’s body.  Since he has previously sold his soul to Dilim, the latter can then enter the sanctuary whenever he wishes unless effectively deterred by good spirits per intercession of relatives and Elders.  Chamber assignment was as follows:

1.    Son’s place of honor

2.    Father’s place of honor

3.    Elders and spirits of relatives

4.    parents

5.    Siro

6.    Dala

7.    Great Spirit’s place of honor

     Queen Dala was declared ruler of the devastated land and group of survivors. 

     “My dear people and blood of my blood.  We have experienced one tragedy after another but became closer and stronger in the process.  Uncle Siro, who is our Chief Elder, helped us through all these.  I am reminding you because our problems are far from over.  During my recovery, he advised me of the changes that happened to the previous King Bulkan, Prince and future king Sigaw, and myself.  We are destined to challenges never before heard of in the history of mankind.  Some of us will have to endure everything through the end of time.  Others shall be fortunate enough to proceed to the world of our ancestors sooner.  With your support, I shall do the best I can to keep this kingdom a happy, peaceful and prosperous one.  It shall be a very long time before we have trouble again.  With the help of Uncle Siro and Elder Samara, I shall tap into the stream of the universal consciousness from time to time in the hope of getting some kind of warning before each unwelcome event occurs.  Though I prefer to be surrounded by all of you till the end, I hereby grant all of those who wish to be exempt from misery the liberty of seeking new roots elsewhere whenever you decide to do so.  My son is too young to make that decision and may not wish to grant such an option when he comes of age.  So as all of you are witnesses to what I said, you are free to go.”

     “We shall stay as long as we can.”  The young ones said.

     “We shall stay the balance of our lives.”  The older ones promised.

     “Hail to the Queen and to the Prince!  Long live the Queen and the Prince!”

  Cleanup and rebuilding continued.  Most of the debris were reused for different purposes including landfill for areas that later sank farther and filled with water sometimes in backyards.  The center of the damaged area sank even deeper and progressively formed a lake.  It was not apparent at first but when the topography finalized into a bird or dinosaur like shape, people started to say that the previous queen mother left her mark when she fell straight down after being hit by the fire that exploded upwards from the mountain.  The lake was named after her.    

     The kingdom prospered.  Dala learned to merge into the current of knowledge of the universal consciousness past, present and future.  There was too much information to access, sort out and understand.  Some made her very confused and others conflicted with each other.  Worse, similar pieces of information seemed applicable to different civilizations at the same time or even different times and had different beginnings, associated characters, and circumstances but mismatched endings.  It was mind boggling.  Even Samaria could not reconcile a number of them with human history, geology, science or religion.  Knowledge has to make sense but the bulk of information surrounding it is far more convoluted than the brain that seeks it.

     “Ride along with the tide.”  Siro advised.  “If the Father wished man to know everything, He would have willed that we rise from the dead first and live backwards to conception.”

     “I found a few things.”  Dala said.  “Now I know why we were born incapable of not comprehending anything except food, comfort and love.”

     Dala gathered a lot of information that would have taken a lifetime to relate.  She compressed the important ones into a short summary.

     Sometime after the last version of man comes into being, when the unit of time becomes a lot shorter and years shall unfold faster to get the terrible history of humanity over with, the seven years of TRIBULATION would come to pass.  There shall be lots of jealousy, misunderstanding, greed and pride.  Children shall learn to hate before they are born.  Violence against each other shall be immeasurable.  Man shall not realize that his enemy is himself till all is done and all are gone.  There are seven conditions for this time to start.  These are seven plagues.   There are seven prerequisites for the actual end to happen.  They are as follows:

1. Man must have the means to exterminate mankind.
2. Those who believe that they are the chosen ones shall return to their presumed homeland.
3. Their old enemies from the North and the South shall revive hostilities.
4. There shall be a well established union of powers controlling world economy.
5. There shall be a rise and fall of the so called chosen ones.
6. The Word of God shall have been KNOWN to ALL man.
7. There shall be an instant, pervasive presence of a world wide communications network.

     At one point, God shall deliver His chosen ones from bondage.  During their long trek to their original homeland, they shall stop in many places.  He shall give them His laws carved on stones for which the people shall build a special home.  God’s original portable Holy Sanctuary would be carried with them through peace and war.  It shall be captured and returned miraculously.  Eventually, a king shall build a grand home on land to house the Holy Sanctuary and its contents.  It was prophesied that when one sees someone who declares himself god in the inner sanctum reserved for the portable Holy Sanctuary, the balance of the seven years of tribulation shall commence.  A king known for his wisdom shall give the portable Home containing the sacred contents including the stone documents to his son.  He shall instruct the latter to hide it where it shall be honored and kept safe till reclaimed by God.  The job shall be well done.  The house on land empty of the Holy Sanctuary shall be visited by a grand conqueror who at some time shall consult an oracle who affirms his view that he is the son of a god.   He shall offer a sacrifice at the great altar in the Innermost Sanctum according to proper ritual as directed and supervised by the high priest himself.  The house empty of the Holy Sanctuary shall be destroyed and rebuilt by a king descended from a rival tribe and puppet of a conquering idolatrous empire.  He himself would be of unscrupulous morals and would order a holy man beheaded for questioning his conduct.  The most beautiful Nova shall herald the beginning of the end.  He shall declare that should “THIS” house be destroyed, He would rebuild IT in three days.  He, three days after dying on the cross, would rise from the dead thus having His body rebuilt by Himself.  The Wonder shall ascend to the bosom of the Father.  From there They shall see the actions of the delegates of different faiths and responses of different groups of the family of man.  The house on land still empty of the Holy Sanctuary would once more be destroyed.  The Holy Sanctuary shall continue to be the subject of search and the house on land the center of controversy and reason for war.  People of different faiths shall not realize that the prophecies expected have already been fulfilled in the least imaginable ways.

    During the second half of The Seven Years of Tribulation, after the years start to go forward and become extremely fast, the four horsemen shall appear singly or concurrently.  People shall forget about the Fifth.  They shall also not realize that the prophesies follow God’s time and may be a hundred to a thousand fold longer than theirs.  The end shall always be expected within their individual lifespan causing panic, despair and urgent measures to hurry up the coming of the One Male that they shall fail to recognize the first time around.  These dates may change in response to human behsvior.  Not all the horsemen may wait for the cue to gallop into the world nor leave before the next one.  All four may coexist amongst us.

0-700:  First Horseman – The Imitator, False Prophets - Riding on a white horse

701 – 1400: Second Horseman -  War – Riding a fiery red horse

1500 – 2100: Third Horseman – Famine – Riding on a black horse

2200 – 2800 :  Fourth Horseman - Disease and Death – Riding on a pale horse

     Towards the end of the second millennium, the Celestial Cross familiar to ancient civilizations shall be observed through a very powerful novel instrument.  Not realizing that death starts at the beginning of life, man shall begin to panic again till time passes by and they realize that their galaxy has not began to explode as expected.  For some reason, the fact that only God has no beginning and no end shall elude man’s comprehension.  Even apparently permanent fixtures in the sky slowly progress to respective termination of function after eons of being taken for granted.

     The Celestial Cross, as a matter of fact, should be regarded as proof of life and is an important tool to monitor the health of a galaxy with.  The dark arms of the cross result from the shadow cast by a thick cloud of dust spiraling around the bright cone of hot gas nearer the core.  Imagine a piece of heavy thread coiling around a lighted spool crossing itself on the second turn on its passage anterior to the spool.  When the words from the holy book come to pass and the sun dims and the moon refuses to give light, we should recognize an urgent call for action.  When the sun fails to produce light and heat, those wise enough to find a more favorable environment earlier shall thank the Lord.  They shall write the real description of the sign of death.

      The people shall persist on intensifying irresolvable conceived differences.  Ultimately, they shall destroy each other almost completely.  Then the Fifth Horseman shall come on a white horse and shall intervene lest no one is left to save.  There shall be a grand judgment of all mankind.  The people shall be taught the true meaning of God’s peace during the thousand years before boarding New Jerusalem. … God’s years or man’s years?  Only the Father knows.

     “That is quite a story.”  Siro said.  “Unfortunately we may have to endure all that.  We should reinforce our faith in God as well as our physical health.  We shall be much older than they are according to their count but should be biologically younger than some of them even then because our metabolic clock is tuned to our creation time schedule.  Decadence might allow us to degenerate to their level.”

     “I shall start a more intensive health maintenance and fitness program.”  Smara promised.  “It is for everyone.”

     “I may need to concentrate on physical rehabilitation first.  That goes for Sigaw also.”  Dala added.

     The young prince grew in strength and stature as well as knowledge and wisdom.  Dilim has not been pushing Bulkan to make the youth do unusual things.

     “We probably shall enjoy a period of peace till he needs them for the end years.”  Siro concluded.

     Sigaw was declared king of the three times larger and proportionally more prosperous kingdom.  A palace complex was built at Kaharian close to the bay where the Anak and Malaki River drain Lake Lawin waters into during Tag Ulan, the rainy season and where it receives salt water and marine life from during Tag Araw, the dry season when the sea level is higher than the lake level.  The leke has become the hub of activity and center of fishing and agriculture.  The entire lake and rivers complex has turned into a thriving transportation and entertainment area that attracted new people from surrounding areas.  A lighthouse was erected to guide guests to the Display Center.  Even Bulkan and Dilim were happy.

     Then Siro started to get worried.  The world was getting too populated, technology propelled and angry with each other about everything.  There have been wars but they managed not to be involved.  Their good fortune may not last much longer.  Sigaw was starting to be nervous too.  There was an anxious look on his face that was not present earlier.  He was worried about new guests, innovations, food, pets and uneasy with reports of changes in the world.  He became suspicious of all recommendations presented to him but was reluctant to discuss them with Siro and Dala.  He kept to himself more often and was actually observed talking to an invisible presence.  His behavioral changes did not coincide with the phases of the moon nor weather.  His logic remained clear.  His understanding of politics, science and commerce was more acute.  He loved art with passion and even increased in spirituality.  Siro performed a  mental evaluation on Sigaw secretly and frequently.  There was no indication of insanity.  He was definitely afraid … no … terrified of something or someone.  Siro was afraid that he knew who the someone was.  Dala was also guessing the identity of the suspect individual.  One time, Siro discussed the matter with her.  People of the kingdom were starting to leave for distant new locations.  They were worried too.  Instead of demanding a change in leadership and a possible rebellion, one family at a time boarded their balangay to quietly and peacefully start a new life elsewhere.  Such benevolent egress probably contributed to the success of the integration of multiple cultures in the archipelago.

     “I have to go to the realm of our ancestors for consultation, guidance and blessing.”  He said.  “Can you hold the fort or should I take you with me for your own safety?”

     “I shall be very careful and promise to send a signal early if needed/”

     “Remember that you are human.  All your training will not make you even close to an equal match with Dilim specialy if he manages to cause Bulkan and Digaw to work with him.”

     “Does Dilim know about the lifeline between me and my son?”

     “I have no doubt that he always knew.  He did not stick the knife into Sigaw’s neck.   He would have lost two chances instead of one to be king.”

     “Does Sigaw know?”

     “He apparently does now.  I overheard some of his conversations with both Bulkan and Dilim.  Sigaw is doing his utmost to resist but Bulkan is weak.  I will not take long.” 

     After Siro left, Sigaw confided with Dala.

     “Mother, you should leave while you can.  I am worried about your safety.  Some of our people have already said farewell to avoid a conflagration.  I gave them my blessing.  I shall give you a million times more.”

     “Son, your Uncle Siro is currently consulting our ancestors.  He shall be back soon with their advice.  Why do I not wait for him?”

     “I know what it would be and I am afraid that it may not help.  Something is brewing right now and I sincerely wish that you shall not be around by then.”

     “You may need my help.”

     “I shall be braver when your welfare is not at stake.”  Sigaw protested.  “Bulkan has been agitated inside me almost constantly.  Dilim is pressuring him to cause me to lock you up in the tower.  He wants Uncle Siro next.  Dilim has plans that involve the world.  It is too complex and comprehensive.  I argued that our little kingdom would not matter much in that grand scenario.  Dilim thinks otherwise.  One man can make enough disturbances to cause the entire world to do ungodly things.  An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth shall be the universal battle cry.  I am his choice to be that man.  I refused but Dilim is persistent and he has all the time to be ready.  He has guaranteed success.  I want you out of the snare.  I shall be stronger if I am reassured of that.”

     “Very well, I shall take Samara and her husband Ele with me …”

     “Please do not tell me where you are going.”  Sigaw stopped her.  “It is best that we do not know of each other’s fate so as not to cause concern and desire to be available for aid.  Our safety and survival depend on our separation from each other to avoid being used against the other or held hostage to coerce the other.”

     A guard interrupted their conversation.  There was a group of subjects headed their way.  They did not look happy.  Sigaw stood and waited for them.  He motioned Dala to step indoors.  She did but within hearing distance.  The leader had very important concerns to discuss.  Sigaw suggested that he wait till Siro returns.  There would be negotiations to be considered by the Councel of Elders as well.  The leader was impatient and the group restless.  They started speaking in less formal fashion.  Then the angry demands started.  Sigaw had to respond.  Dala felt a cold presence behind her.  She sensed Bulkan’s fright inside Sigaw.  Sigaw maintained his calm externally but all his muscles were tense.  Dala felt Siro’s approach.  He was not close enough to help if needed.  Samara and Ele appeared in the room after getting vives from Dala.

     “My dear people.”  Dala greeted the crowd after stepping into the balcony. 

     Sigaw tried to discretely edge her back indoors.  Dala continued to speak.  She had to keep a semblance of calm and delay confrontation as long as possible.  She mentally told Sigaw of Dilim’s presence.   Sigaw urged her to step away from him and in full view of the people and be prepared to run.

     Sigaw continued his strategy but the crowd was getting anxious.  Sensing Siro’s progressive approach, he continued to placate the crowd.  When Siro was close enough, he gave his speech.

     “My dear people, we have passed the summit of the cycle we are in.  We have endured the bad times and survived.  We had the blessing of good times.  Let us be thankful for those and remember that no matter how we fare later on and where we each happen to be.  We are all of the original blood of Palay and have succeeded in maintaining our standards through our challenges and achievements.  Please remember to continue and transmit all that to all our descendants.  It is time to plan the future which can only be downhill till we survive the bottom and our wheel proceeds on an upturn again.  Some of us are blessed with extended life and a few are even immortal.  The younger ones have progressively shorter life spans but all shall live longer than the population from other lands.  We are destined to set the pace of civilization in this corner of the world.  Though our feet have turned to clay once more, our heads and hearts remain made of iron.  Our examples shall be noticed and followed by many generations of our blood and a mixture of others.  Remember that we have the obligation to lead others.  Let our example and leadership only be for the Father and not that of His enemy.  Go far with my blessing.  Leave NOW!  DO NOT WORSHIP DILIM!!!”

     Dilim stepped out from the darkness and everyone saw a metal rod held by an invisible hand strike Sigaw’s head.  There were screams of horror and cries of anguish. 

     Siro sensed an urgent call.  He was expecting one from Dala.  This was from BULKAN?  He saw fire from the distance.  Then he noticed Sigaw lying face down on the palace balcony floor.  Dala was in a fight with an invisible opponent.  Samara was using sticks to keep the opponent at bay.  Ele was using his feet.  A metal rod was being swung by unseen hands.

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Magdalena D. Guerrero, MD, FACOG/GP (dr G)

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