Black and White - 2

2

Lyan:

Dad had lightly tanned skin, dark hair, and a bit of facial hair. He was not very tall or very muscular, but most people who knew him said he was a handsome man. According to him, it was because of his sense of humor. And according to Mom, it was because of his kindness. They also used to say that I did not inherit much from him physically, but my attitude was almost identical.

My dad and I were so excited for our vacation day that we could not stop smiling at the thought of what lay ahead.

Karima, the city we lived in, was not very big. The difference with Novadía was massive. That is why it did not take long for us to enter the highway, which marked the beginning of a much more monotonous and boring journey.

We drove west for hours, surrounded by what I considered nothing. Huge amounts of dirt, grass, and mountains that were only interesting for the first hour.

We saw almost no traces of human intervention along the way, but every time we did, we stopped. Sometimes because I needed to go to the bathroom, and other because Dad needed to.

We also took the opportunity to buy more drinks. The heat that day was stifling, so the water we brought from home did not last as long as we expected.

Dad's portion ran out first, and he had to suffer for a while watching me drink what was left. I wanted to share a little with him, but he said it was not necessary.

There were other things on that trip that were a little annoying, but if I had to choose one in particular, I would say boredom was the worst.

Some of the things I could do in the car were listen to music, play games on my dad's phone, and sleep. Obviously, I did all three of those things, and on more than one occasion, but when the rock music became repetitive, the battery died, and my neck hurt from my posture, I started wishing to get there soon.

However, I did my best to keep that feeling hidden inside, because it was Dad's birthday. I did not want to be a bother to him, so I decided to keep it to myself.

After a few hours, something interesting finally happened. In front of us, I saw a large mountain with two peaks (similar to the letter "M"), and we had to cross it by climbing a high, steep road right in the middle.

Dad told me that the locals were familiar with the mountain, mainly because of what they could see upon reaching the top. Honestly, though, it was hard to hear him, because going up such a steep road was a bit scary.

Lyan: When I was little, I used to come to this mountain with my friends and throw things from the top. Big rocks, or sometimes potatoes, and sometimes we even threw each other. I still have the scars on my arm…

That was true. I remembered seeing some marks on his arms before, but I never questioned their origin.

Lyan: You shouldn't be like your dad when it comes to things like that... But that's not what I wanted to show you. The best thing about this mountain, Twen, is without a doubt the view. Look at this! Doesn't it look like something out of a movie?

After hearing him speak like that, I dared to look out the window. And, to be honest, I did not regret it at all.

There were no more mountains ahead of us, only a huge fall that, at its end, transformed into the immense, brilliant blue body of the sea. And being so high was not great just because everything was below me, but also because the only thing limiting my vision was my own eyes.

Plus, because of the time, the sky was already tinged with orange and the water borrowed some of its color, creating a perfect scene, as if it were an incredibly sentimental and expensive painting.

It is true that, at six years old, I had not had many deep thoughts. However, I was sure that landscape was something I never wanted to forget. I wanted to burn it into my retinas.

It was incredible… At least, until I felt a strange and terrifying sensation in my body, as if I had started to fall. I had not yet fully understood it, but on the other side of that big mountain was still that big fall, and Dad saw that as an opportunity.

Lyan: Hold on tight!

Without much time to think, I grabbed onto the first thing I found, and our car quickly began to descend at a speed that felt hundreds of times greater than the speed we had on the way up.

I could not even scream at being caught off guard, but Dad, unlike me, was enjoying it. I did not bother turning around to see him, but I heard his laughter as we fell…

Once down, our speed slowed, but not my heartbeat. Dad saw me almost stiff in my seat and reached out to place one of his hands on my leg (the only thing he could reach, since I was in the back seat).

Lyan: What happened? Were you really scared of that fall? And I even used the brakes…

Maybe for him, who had apparently done it before, and perhaps at a faster speed, it was not much. But for me, it was like my first time at an amusement park.

Lyan: You know what? Your mom reacted the same way. The first time we came here, it also caught her off guard, and then she told me not to do stupid things like that… And I think she's right about something. You always have to keep a feet on the ground and not get completely carried away… But being stupid every now and then is fun, and it's important to learn to have fun.

Twen: I don't get it... I don't get it, Dad... But I think it was fun, kind of.

Lyan: Then you totally get it!

Of course, I was nervous and scared falling from the top of that mountain, but once it was over and I felt safe, I would even say the idea of trying it again crossed my mind. I smiled without knowing why (probably due to the adrenaline rush), but I did not complain.

In any case, we continued along the road toward the sea. A little further on, it curved to the left and extended for a few kilometers until it reached what looked like a city.

As soon as I saw it, I was convinced that it was our destination, and with that in mind, I slumped my shoulders and stuck my head out the window to look at the sea.

I had been trying to hide my boredom for a while now, so it made me feel incredibly relieved to think we were nearing the end.

And when we reached the curve, Dad made a right turn…

Not to the left, where the street leading to the city continued, but to the right, where there was a thin, almost hidden road that I had not even considered.

Lyan: Huh? What's with that face? Did I say something weird?

I could not hide my displeasure at the thought of our car ride being even longer. I was a kid, after all.

Twen: I thought we were going there and that we were almost there…

Lyan: Oh yeah? Then don't worry! In fact, we've already reached our destination.

The narrow path we took wound around the base of the great mountain and then entered a place that was surrounded by more mountains in all directions except for the opening to the sea.

It was shaped like a horseshoe. And right in the center, respecting the geography of the area, there was a town.

It was already striking at first glance. It had lots of colorful buildings and a large beach. Seagulls flew freely in the air, and the smell of the sea was already beginning to waft through my nose.

I did not know what to expect from that place, but I was more than convinced that one day there would be very different from any other.

Lyan: You see, Twen? This is where I was born and raised. This is where I come from… Welcome to Copihual! What do you think?

Twen: Looks nice… I like it!

As we made our way into Copihual, I noticed that the only paved street was the one that followed the horseshoe shape and ended at the sea. The rest were just cobblestone paths, which created a very different atmosphere from Karima.

Around 7:00 p.m. we pulled into a dirt parking lot next to a cabin. We got out and stretched our stiff bodies, taking in the surroundings and enjoying the fresh air off the coast.

At that moment, all I wanted to do was quickly drop off our things inside the cabin so we could go out and explore, but for that, we needed a key first.

Dad had to go to another cabin on the same street because the owner had left the task of guarding it and then handing over the key to one of the neighbors. I used that time to examine the insides of the cabin from the window.

It was just one large room with two single beds, a kitchen, a bathroom, and some sea paintings hanging on the walls. It did not look bad.

In fact, as simple as it was, it was also cozy, and even though I felt like things were missing (like a television, for example) I had no problem spending a few nights there.

When Dad came back with the key, we quickly unloaded the car and, once we were ready, we lay face down on our beds.

Even though we were sitting the whole time, the trip was exhausting, so we wanted to take a few seconds before going out again.

That seemed like a good idea, until we started to risk falling asleep. Dad took the initiative, jumping up and shaking me to motivate me. He did not have to try very hard to convince me.

The sky outside was even darker than when we arrived. We walked along the horseshoe shape, illuminated by old lanterns and the reflection of the last rays of sunlight on the sea.

Lyan: Being here makes me feel like I'm a kid again. All those memories…

Twen: Like a kid? You're not a kid, Dad.

Lyan: I know, I know… But I was when I lived here. I used to run through all these streets, swim at the beach down there, and stop by to buy ice cream with my friends from a funny guy we called Gum Feet.

Twen: Gum Feet? Why?

Lyan: Because he limped so much, it was like his foot kept getting stuck to the floor…

I took a second to consider whether or not I should laugh. And, although I smiled a little, I remembered other things I had been taught in my few years of life.

Twen: Dad, you shouldn’t do that.

Lyan: You think so? But everyone called him that and he laughed when they did...

Talking about it must have reminded him of many things from his past, because as he spoke, he let out a smile from ear to ear. And, shortly after that, his expression changed drastically when he saw a recognizable place in the distance.

Lyan: Twen! Do you see that over there? We'll go there tomorrow, and you're going to love it, I'm telling you. It's the "Street of Colors", and they're going to put on an amazing show... Amazing!

Looking towards the mountains I could identify the beginning of a wide and colorful road, but not much more than that, because it was hidden by the mountains that surrounded it.

It certainly looked like something important to the people of Copihual, and I would have liked to see a little more, but I did not have time.

Dad diverted my attention to show me the house of one of his best friends, then pointed to the place where he had broken his leg, and finally pointed to the end of our street because that was where the beach began...

Right there was a large restaurant that looked like a thatched cottage, but it was much bigger and had an outdoor terrace with furniture that looked handmade.

Dad eagerly ran toward the entrance, and some of that excitement rubbed off on me. With the ocean view and the restaurant's natural aesthetic, my mental image of Copihual continued to grow more beautiful.

Lyan: Son, I want you to know something… The reason this restaurant is so big compared to other places in town, and the reason there’s only one street that leads here… Is that the food is, without a doubt, the best in the world.

Twen: In the world?!

Lyan: Yes… With the quantity and variety of fresh fish and seafood they have, there is simply no comparison.

I was shocked to hear his statement. After we placed our order, I counted down the seconds until our food arrived. Luckily, my count did not get too far.

Then I started to think that, possibly, what Dad had said was true.

Two gigantic natural juices arrived at our table, along with a plate of sauteed shrimp that did not last long because of their delicious flavor.

Then came the main dishes…

For Dad, a striking soup arrived with a variety of seafood and fish in a clay bowl, with some vegetables, a touch of white wine, and accompanied by a halved lemon. For me, a portion of fish and chips arrived (a typical six-year-old decision, but also a foolproof one).

Anyway, by the end of the day I was able to try everything that came across our table, and I was definitely grateful for that opportunity. I got to the point where I wanted to keep eating even when I could not fit any more in my stomach.

With the stars shining above us and also reflected in the sea, a salty wind hitting our faces, and multiple candles lighting our disastrous table, it became an unforgettable experience.

And arguably, for our first day of the trip, that was the last thing I did. I was so exhausted I had no idea how we got back to the cabin, but there is no doubt I put on my pajamas as soon as we arrived and got into bed.

Dad did the same, but before going to sleep, he called Mom. I got to hear a bit of their conversation.

Lyan: How are you?

Milia: How are you all?! How has it been?

Lyan: It’s been incredible and we are extremely happy, obviously! And I have to say, I'm glad to see Twen enjoying the trip. We just got back from the beachfront restaurant and we both ate until almost exploding. That place still holds its magic… And well, as soon as we got to the cabin Twen went to bed.

Milia: Well, he must be tired, and fish makes you sleepy… But I love to hear that you're doing well. And what's your plan for tomorrow? Besides going to the Street of Colors, of course. That must be decided by now.

Lyan: And what's the problem? It's beautiful! You liked it too, and you can't deny it.

Milia: That's true, I'd love to go again... Send me pictures when you're there.

Lyan: Okay! I'll try to remember…

I was not able to listen to their conversation until the end, as I ended up losing consciousness with my head glued to the pillow and did not wake up until the next morning.

…

Lyan: It's burning! It burns!!

Twen: What?! Huh?! No!

I woke up with a jump scare as a trickle of drool ran down my cheek. My brain still was not functioning properly, and I had no idea what was going on, but as soon as I saw Dad things slowly became clearer.

He was smiling. It was already August 30th, and that meant he was in a good mood because it was his birthday.

He was toasting bread and scrambling eggs, with his clean clothes already on and his bed made. His scream had just been a joke to wake me up.

Lyan: Breakfast is ready, Twen.

Twen: Ok… Happy birthday, dad.

Lyan: Thanks!

Slowly, I stood up and went over to him to give him a hug. I could already see that he was full of energy and planned to spend it all enjoying everything Copihual had to offer.

And that, after all, he did it with me. Early in the morning, the events that would mark my dad's birthday celebration began.

The first of these was a simple but delicious breakfast with his son, where we ate scrambled eggs with tomato and sausage, as well as a natural juice that I had no idea where it came from.

After that, we brushed our teeth, put on sunscreen and changed into our swimsuits. We left the cabin with a totally summery vibe and headed to the beach, armed with towels, an umbrella and a backpack.

Thus began the second important event of the day. Following a similar route to the previous night, we ended up on the white sand of Copihual’s beach.

There we looked for a place to leave our things. While we were struggling to set up the umbrella, a man selling ice cream from a small cart with an umbrella on top passed by.

Dad went to buy one for both of us, but it took him a while. Apparently, the man and my dad knew each other. And, in fact, more people he knew slowly began to arrive, possibly his old friends.

I just waited patiently as I watched the seagulls fly over the waves.

When Dad came back, and after we had refreshed ourselves with food, we ran into the water and played like children. We sat down again almost an hour later, when my eyes burned from opening them under the salt water.

Later, when we left the beach, we did not go straight back to the cabin. We first stopped at a small kiosk along the way, and so began what I would call the third event of the day, which was something of a souvenir hunt.

As we went to places that Dad remembered from the past, we also looked for objects to take back to our home in Karima.

An old man worked at the small kiosk, with whom Dad spoke for a few minutes until he finally bought some meat-filled dough packets that we could eat as we walked.

Before leaving, I noticed that the ground was wet and covered in sand. Dad said that, as he had mentioned before, it was common to stop by that place to get something to eat after the beach…

Afterwards, we quickly stopped by our cabin to drop off our things and head out again, as we had several shops to visit.

We found lots of colorful, handmade clothing, as well as household items carved from wood or clay, some merely decorative and others functional.

Dad bought a clay figure that was round and had a big mouth, with teeth and all, because he thought it was funny. I was a little scared, but for some reason I could not help but looking at it.

After hours, when we were back at the cabin feeling exhausted, we took advantage of the opportunity to rest. We took a quick shower and then called Mom.

We spent a long time there, recharging our batteries, and when we were recovered, we went out again. This time, in comfortable clothes and warm clothes, because we planned not to return until evening.

We walked through Copihual toward the mountains, and so we arrived at the Street of Colors that Dad mentioned the day before, where the fourth interesting event of the day began.

However, I judged the situation too quickly. Instead of going deeper into that interesting place, Dad opted to climb a mountain that surrounded the colorful path, using a route vaguely defined by nature.

The climb was a bit tricky, but with such a simple goal in mind as reaching the top, it ended up being a lot of fun.

We moved forward, careful where we stepped to avoid falling, collecting tree branches with the coolest shapes, and talking about my impressions of Copihual so far.

The positivity of my dad was a great help in forgetting the pain in my feet or looking back without fear of the heights. We let ourselves be captivated by the beautiful panorama, proud of how far we had come.

And, once at the top, I was surprised to find the place was not empty. There was a sort of viewing platform, which connected to the other side of the Street of Colors.

We caught our breath by lying on the ground and watching a group of people lighting tall torches on the sides of the colorful road.

Lyan: What do you think? Lighting the path with torches instead of lanterns...

Twen: That's great!

Lyan: That's what I thought! But they don't light them every day, so it's a good thing we came today.

Twen: Why?

Lyan: Remember what I told you yesterday? About the show of the Street of Colors.

Twen: Uh… No idea.

Lyan: Well, it makes sense, we've been doing a lot of things these past two days... The Street of Colors show happens twice a year, on the last Friday of February and August.

Twen: Ah… Today is Friday.

Lyan: Exactly! And to think it would be right on my birthday! It's just perfect... There'll be music, dancing, food, and it's going to be the best thing you've ever seen!

Twen: Really?!

Lyan: Maybe... Surely everything's already set up and people are already having fun. But I need a little rest before I go, so you have to wait for your old man... I’m sorry, Twen.

At that moment, I saw something very strange on his face. Although he was talking so excitedly about the Street of Colors, he also seemed a little sad in a way.

Lyan: I used to do this with my friends, you know? We'd run up the side of the mountain and then down the Street of Colors, and we'd do it as fast as we could. I won a few times.

Twen: That sounds dangerous…

Lyan: It was, but that was many years ago, when I didn't care much about danger... It may seem ridiculous, but I miss those days. Life was simpler.

Twen: Simpler?

Lyan: I was just running around with my friends, doing stupid things, talking to everyone in town, and the worst thing that could happen was forgetting sunscreen. Almost every day felt like a vacation…

Twen: That would be great!

Lyan: It would be… But I guess we're not that lucky.

He was looking up at the sky while thinking out loud. And, after a few seconds of silence, his lips formed a smile.

Lyan: In any case, I'm very happy with how things have turned out for me. Maybe I don't have vacations every day, but I've learned a lot, met new people, and perhaps most importantly, I have you now, Twen…

He put his hand on my head and ruffled my hair. I did not quite understand what was going through his head, so this display of affection was a bit sudden for me.

That was certainly something I should have appreciated more at the time.

Lyan: Thanks for the gift, son.

Twen: I haven't done anything...

Lyan: What do you mean? You've been walking with me all day. You must be tired too, sorry about that… But I like having someone to keep me company, and even better if it's my beloved son.

The sky was already darkening, and the temperature at that altitude was dropping steadily. We put on our coats, sent a photo to Mom, and then started moving again.

I had it easier than Dad, whose knees were still a little sore, but it seemed like nothing was going to stop him from reaching the Street of Colors. And it makes perfect sense, considering it is something you do not see every day (literally).

That way, we began our walk down the Street of Colors, marking the beginning of the fifth and final event of the day.

The path was made of stones in a variety of colors, leaving aside the gray and adopting blue, yellow, red, green... And that also applied to the decorations that hung along the entire street.

The street was designed to curve and climb between two mountains, obscuring most of it from the rest of the town. And it was in this hidden area that the most fascinating part lay.

Lots of food stalls and decorations for this celebration, people gathered with handmade necklaces and bracelets, live music being played, the light of torches and all the colors around… It was beautiful!

There was a place where the street split in two and led, on one side, to what looked like a large wooden crafts store, and on the other, to a large stone surface that served as a stage for musicians.

It looked like a big party, and Dad did not want us to be left out. So the first thing we did was buy necklaces and bracelets for us. They were thin leather bands decorated with seashells and small painted wooden spheres.

Dad chose mostly red, pink, and white items, but I preferred to go for green, purple, and blue. We both covered our necks, arms, and even our waists with these decorations.

We then went to get something to eat and drink, but the lines started to get longer and longer as more people arrived, some of whom were kids my age who could not sit still.

We spent maybe an hour wandering around until Dad thought it was time to visit that huge tent across from the stage. It was much bigger than all the others and seemed to have been there for ages, so I was really curious.

Without giving it much thought, we walked in, and the woman in charge of the shop was delighted to see Dad, as she was an old friend and daughter of the owner. She talked to him for a while about his later years working professionally with wood while I watched her results.

She used different types of wood, with different qualities and shades, to create beautiful furniture and decorations.

Everything was very interesting, but there was one section in particular that captured my attention. It was a wall completely covered in varieties of the same object, hanging down and facing the floor at an angle.

Twen: Dad, look at this.

Lyan: Yeah? What is it?

Twen: It's full of masks here... Why are there so many?

Lyan: Why not? They're great.

Twen: Sure… But why are some so big and others so small? And why are some so scary…?

Lyan: Because masks can represent so many things, and that's what makes them so great... Plus, these masks are part of Copihual's culture. When I was young, I used to come with my friends to buy masks to wear on days like today.

Twen: Really?! You used stuff like that?

I pointed to a huge red mask that looked like a demon's face. Dad laughed a little when he saw it.

Lyan: No, no... That one's too big and heavy, and it doesn't even have eye holes to see through. It's just for decoration, I guess...

Twen: So which ones did you use?

Dad moved to one side of the wall, where much simpler masks hung. Some of them, in fact, were nothing more than simple wooden bases.

Lyan: The idea was to buy one like these. We would start with blank masks and then decorate them using all our imaginations, so everyone would end up with something different... It brings back so many memories...

Twen: So you made a mask too! What did it look like?

Lyan: I've made a bunch, Twen, although I lost most of them... The only ones left are the ones I made with your mom the last time we came.

Twen: And why haven't I seen them?

Lyan: We made them before you were born and they've been stored away ever since.

Twen: I want to see them!

I was really interested in the mask topic, especially considering that my dad and mom had made some with their own hands. Dad stared at me for a few seconds, seemingly thinking about something.

Lyan: Yeah… Twen, why don't you make one yourself, too? I'm sure you'll come up with something great.

Twen: Really?!

Lyan: Yes! After all, both your mom and I are good at crafts. I think you should have something, too.

I really felt like something had switched on inside me, so I immediately started looking for a mask I liked. Obviously, one of the empty ones.

Yet they were all mostly identical, in shape, size, and even the pale wood they were made of.

The only one that was different, and perhaps that is why it captivated me, was one that was on the highest part of the wall. It was a great contrast to the other masks because it was made of a type of black wood.

The moment I saw it, I felt something inside me starting to agitate. It was as if my body was vibrating, receiving signals from the mask, with a rhythm that made it seem like music.

Twen: Dad… I want that one, Dad! The one up top!

Lyan: The black one? … Really?

Twen: Yes! I feel like it's talking to me, Dad. It's magic! It's playing music for me...

Lyan: Oh, no, that's coming from outside... Which means we have to get out of here soon. Let's grab the mask and go!

Suddenly, Dad wanted to get out of the store as quickly as possible. So he grabbed the black mask, handed the money to his old friend (who also seemed to want to leave), and we left.

He was holding my hand as we ran, so I did not even have time to put on my mask before we left. And I did not do it when we were outside either, because something else caught my attention.

There was a large group of people walking down the street of colors making a huge noise, using drums, bells, hitting long wooden sticks on the ground and singing.

Additionally, they wore a variety of colorful ornaments on their legs, hips, wrists, and necks, and each wore a crown of white feathers on their heads. It was clear they were so excited, so much so that just looking at them made us all feel emotional.

Their music was so loud (especially the drums) that I felt my whole body vibrate with every beat, and it was a sensation I found fascinating.

The group continued moving forward until they reached the stage near us, so Dad and I made our way to the front as best we could. And that is how we got a front row seat.

Right in front of us, the group lit up the stage by burning the torches surrounding it.

The musicians then resumed playing as a group of dancers climbed onto the stone platform, thrilling the entire audience with their dancing.

They performed exaggerated movements with their entire bodies in sync, jumping, hitting themselves, and moving around every corner of the stage. It takes a good amount of physical condition to do what they did.

Most of the time, men and women danced together, performing steps that were very similar or complemented each other, but there was a moment when women took center stage, moving their arms and hips with more elegance.

And then, with a big change in choreography and music, all the noise slowly faded away and only one person remained on stage.

She was a tall, thin, dark-skinned woman, wearing an outfit that, unlike all the others, only used black colors in its feathers and other ornaments, giving her a much more intimidating image.

Plus, she was the only one wearing a mask. It was very dark, with horns and black details.

And, as if that were not enough, she also had two long ropes tied to her wrists, which, after a frightening look at the audience, were set on fire.

Her act was an astonishing display of her control over fire, playing with it and waving it through the air, allowing us to experience its light and heat. A dangerous dance accompanied by intense music.

It was very moving and beautiful, but it came to an end when the ropes stopped burning and the other dancers came on stage to join her in the final part of the dance. This time, they too wore decorated masks, although these were white. People in the public also started wearing theirs, including myself.

So, after a few emotional minutes, the show came to an end. All the participants gathered around and, looking out at the audience, thanked us for our attention.

We started to applaud, and those who could, started to whistle too.

Lyan: That's what I wanted to see... It was impressive, wasn't it Twen?

Twen: I didn't understand a thing, but I loved it!

The audience began to disperse, laughing and energized. When Dad turned his head to look at me, he noticed I had no intention of taking my eyes off the stage.

I was still trapped in the world that show had just shown me. The rhythm, the movements, the energy, and the story I could not understand would undoubtedly be etched in my heart, which was beating fast.

Lyan: I told you, you were going to like it... Would you like to know what that dance means?

Twen: Yes!

Lyan: The colors that are everywhere right now, in decorations and ornaments, are supposed to represent people's emotions. It's not like each color means something different, like yellow means happiness or blue means sadness... But if you want them to, they could.

Twen: So all of that is emotions.

Lyan: Yes. And then there are the white feathers, which are like life itself. All emotions are found in them, and that's why those people wore their white crowns and masks.

Twen: Life itself… How?

Lyan: Maybe it's a little hard for you to understand it all now... The thing is, white is life, and black is death. That's why that woman in the black mask was so scary even before the fire...

I admit it was easier for me to understand when the meanings of black and white were simply put as life and death. I thought about it for a few seconds and then realized something.

I jumped a little in fear when I thought the mask he was wearing was black (death), so I quickly took it off, but Dad put a hand on my shoulder to calm me down.

Lyan: Don't take it so seriously... Nothing's going to happen to you for buying a mask, it's just a piece of wood.

Twen: Sure?!

Lyan: Yes, absolutely… Although it would be good if you decorated it. Do you have any ideas yet?

Twen: But it doesn't make sense anymore... Those colors don't match with death.

Lyan: Wow, it seems you get it. You're smart for your age, huh? So you're bound to come up with something great for your mask.

Dad patted me on the back, and then, holding my hand, we walked away from the stage.

The next step was undecided. We could go home or stay a little longer on the Street of Colors.

The answer came from a pair of men exhausted from dancing. As soon as they made eye contact, Dad greeted one of them, and they both started laughing. This was, obviously, another reunion.

For the rest of the evening, we wandered around, meeting other people and occasionally grabbing a bite to eat. Initially, I did not feel too involved, but then I met two people my age, a boy and a girl.

They were the children of some of Dad's old friends and I found it very easy to connect with them, so it would not be wrong to say that they helped me spend the rest of the day having fun.

But there was one detail that did not leave my mind, and that was my black mask and what I should do with it. It remained an unresolved issue in the corner of my mind until I could not think anymore.

After another busy day, my six-year-old body could not take any more, so Dad decided it was time to head back to the cabin.

…

Once again, how we got there remains a mystery, although it is likely Dad had to carry me on his back. In any case, the routine from the previous night must have been repeated, so that shortly after arriving at the cabin, I ended up in my bed.

In just a matter of seconds, I fell asleep like a baby. But, like them, I could not spend the entire night with my eyes closed.

I woke up with the urge to go to the bathroom, which was not something I could ignore, so I had to get up. It took me a moment to notice I was wearing my pajama top inside out and that my newly purchased black mask was still in my hands.

Besides, Dad was not in bed. Quickly and a bit scared I started looking for him, until I found him right outside the cabin, his cell phone to his ear, staring up at the stars.

I saw him through the window and for some reason did not want to interrupt him. I was calm enough knowing where I was, so I just started back toward the bathroom.

Once I was done, I looked at myself in the mirror, and that gave me an idea. I grabbed my new black mask and then tried it on, like I had not done before.

It was a bit big for me, so the two straps that crossed my neck to hold it up did not quite do their job. But the mask itself was not bad, of course. If I held it in my hands, it looked great.

As I looked at myself in the mirror I heard a low murmur from outside the cabin, moving slowly back and forth.

Lyan: Nah… Don't worry, I can do that myself… But, you see? It's an excellent idea… Exactly! It would be you, Twen, and me in Copihual, lying on the beach with an ice cream in hand, without a care in the world. We deserve it!

Dad was laughing. Then he walked away, and I could not hear what he was saying anymore, so I went back to bed. But instead of lying down, I sat up for a while.

I thought about how strange it felt to be in that room, so far from home, surrounded by such a strange energy that even the wind felt different. I was so far from my own mother, yet so close to unknown and interesting things.

In just two days I learned so many things that I did not know how they would fit in my six-year-old head, but I wanted them to.

I still did not have many deep thoughts, but I still set a goal to experience something like this again in the future. To have experiences filled with fun, excitement, and learning, hopefully with someone I loved.

A few minutes passed before I felt like sleeping again. For some strange reason, the human body is capable of robbing someone of sleep even if they are completely tired.

That is why, when Dad came back in, he was surprised to see me.

Lyan: I love you. See you tomorrow… Oh, looks like someone woke up! Twen, here, tell your mother you love her!

Dad pretty much threw his phone at me, and then I could see he was on a call with Mom. It took me by surprise, but I did what I was told.

Twen: Hi mom… I love you too!

Milia: And I love you, my beloved Twen! How did you spend these days with your dad?

Twen: Very well, but now I'm tired...

Milia: Makes sense. That's what happens when someone spends too much time with your dad... So take advantage of your sleep to recharge your batteries. See you tomorrow, and I hope you have some good photos to show me.

Twen: Yeah, I think we have some. Bye, Mom.

Lyan: Bye!

Milia: Good night~.

That call ended as if we were the most ordinary family in the world.

Dad smiled a lot, but for me there was nothing special about that moment. It was an everyday goodbye, like when Mom or Dad went to work, or I got out of the car to go to school.

Dad put his cell phone back in his pocket and then turned his head to look at me. He had some questions for me, and he did not hold them back.

Lyan: So, son... What's up with the mask?

Twen: Ah! I couldn't sleep and I had it in my hand, so I wanted to see how it looked on me.

Lyan: It looks great on you, no doubt about it. But I think it'll look even better when you grow a little older...

Twen: I think the same.

Lyan: And that's why you got up at two in the morning?

Twen: Two in the morning?

Lyan: Yeah, it's quite late. Or maybe it's early… The day has changed, so it's no longer my birthday.

Twen: Really?!

I was surprised because it was the first time I had been awake at that hour and conscious of it. It felt like a step toward becoming a more grown-up person, or maybe a more party-loving person.

It was another new experience I had during this trip with Dad, which was not just great because of how it made me feel, but also because of what it meant to Dad.

August 30th had already passed, and it became a date carved into my heart. And not because of a sad or unpleasant experience in any way, but quite the opposite. It began and ended filled with nothing but good times.

In fact, the day that was just beginning was not going to be as good as the previous one. It was going to be a bit boring. Dad had to go back to work, and I had to go back to school. But even so, we kept the memories of a perfect day.

Maybe…

Things like luck and karma may or may not exist. But, given the case, then I may have made a mistake out of greed, wanting my future to remain as pleasant as it had been in this experience…

Lyan: Okay, now it's time to go to sleep. Remember, we have a long trip back tomorrow.

Twen: Yes!

Dad placed his hand on my head and shook my hair. As I laughed, he got up and went back to his bed, wishing me good night. I wished him good night back.

And so, the perfect morning ended…

No. That is how it should have ended…

But imperfections haunt humans all the time, and we had been going a long time without any of them.

Just as there are many things that can be done right, there are many others that can go wrong, and when that happens can be completely unpredictable.

Especially in a world where there are people with powers. Powers that manifest as a representation of their emotions. Emotions that all people have. And people who may or may not be completely vulnerable.

Twen: Dad…? My bed just moved?

Lyan: I think so…

Before I went to bed and went to sleep, I had to remove the mask, which was still covering my face. But before I could do so, I was distracted by a strange sensation. As a first reaction, a shiver ran up my spine.

Followed by a very deep sound, my body began to shake from side to side. I reflexively looked at Dad, as he was the first person I wanted to turn to when something scared me. When I felt in danger.

However, he looked as confused as I did.

Lyan: I think it's an earthquake... But don't worry, it'll stop soon.

He said that, but the intensity of the movement continued to increase. Dad got out of his bed to come to my side and hug me.

The lamp hanging from the ceiling swung back and forth, and at some point it went out. The doors and windows rattled loudly, as if they were being banged on. That deep sound, like the roar of the earth itself, did not stop. And my bed, as if someone were jumping on it, kept moving.

Lyan: I understand this is a little scary, but it's natural. For now, we just have to stay calm.

I thought he was lying, and even though I was only six I was completely convinced, because even he seemed scared. He held me firmly while looking around for anything that might help us.

A force I did not know he could wield, and a face I did not know he could make. Seeing him like that surprised me as much as, if not more than, what was happening around us.

And there was nothing I could do. My body was completely frozen, so I could do nothing but observe the situation.

But before I could think about the possibilities, that trembling began to fade. Dad and I looked into each other's eyes, saying nothing, and then we smiled. I am not sure if he saw my face, but I could see his without any problem.

Lyan: See? There’s no reason for us to be desperate…

He had a big, bright smile, one of those typical of him that I will never forget.

He hugged me again, and I hugged him back, hiding my face in his chest and closing my eyes as I did so. And, at that precise moment, a new, inexplicable event began.

A power.

An imperfection.

A tragedy.

…

My feet felt wet and cold, and my body immediately fell backward, unable to maintain the position I was in. When I opened my eyes, the first thing I saw was water, then the dark sky, and behind me, a pile of white sand.

There was no doubt about where I was...

The beach. But why the beach? And why was Dad not by my side?

I looked around in fear, searching for him, screaming and rushing to get out of the water. But before I saw any sign of him, the event repeated itself.

…

My feet stopped touching the ground because my entire body was, for a few seconds, suspended in the air. And, unable to react, I could not break my fall. I crashed into the gray ground beneath me. The pavement.

It was a painful fall.

With fear and a lot of doubts, I began to feel desperate, but Dad had just said I did not have to feel that way. Of course, it would have been easier to listen to him if he had been by my side, or at least knowing where I was, but that was not the case.

I really wanted to run and find him, but I also wanted to make sure I was safe. That is why, after quickly getting up, I tried to understand what was happening.

I wanted to know what was going to happen next, where I would end up if I appeared somewhere random again, where Dad had ended up, what the best way to get to safety would be.

Obviously, I could not come up with any answers. Before I could even begin to reflect, the event repeated itself.

…

This time, my feet were only a few inches off the ground. But, unfortunately, I had ended up quite far from the paved road. It was the mountain that lay on one side of the Street of Colors and took us almost an hour to climb.

Because of the inclination, once my feet hit the ground I was unable to maintain my balance, and it quickly became a fact that I was going to fall backwards.

I was able to react quickly enough to twist my torso and bring my hands forward, ready to cushion my fall… But, long before I hit the ground and sooner than I could have anticipated, I found myself face to face with a tree.

I received a blow to the face that completely disoriented me. I instantly lost any chance I had of leaving unharmed. The painful fall down the mountain was inevitable. I had no control whatsoever. Fear, helplessness, and even anger took over my body.

I rolled, bounced, and hit a thousand things before I could reach the bottom… I became the protagonist of a scene full of tears, blood, grunts…

And when my body finally stopped, all I could understand was that the sky and the stars were in front of me.

But my heart kept beating.

I had trouble breathing, my whole body hurt, I could not move, and I could not think of anything else to do to save myself, but I was still alive.

I was still alive.

…

I was only six years old. The fear and shock were too much for me to handle, so I could not comprehend what I felt during that entire time I spent lying on the floor, and everything that happened afterward became a narrative full of holes.

I remember being found by someone, although I do not know who or how long it took them to arrive.

I also remember them checking my body, asking if anything hurt, shining a light directly into my eyes, and carefully removing my mask to see if I had hurt myself in any way.

Only then did I remember I was wearing it.

Apparently, that piece of black wood had acted as a kind of helmet and protected me from some pretty hard blows. My face had some bruises but no cuts. The mask, on the other hand, was broken.

After finishing their job, that person told me I could put my mask back on. I did not know why, but I did.

I asked about my dad, but they said they did not know anything about him. They led me to a large vehicle filled with other people, though none of them were in the mood to talk. Along the way, I saw the condition Copihual had been left in.

Some roofs were covered by piles of sand, mountains were covered in colorful debris, and large trees lay downed on the seafront.

It was not just me, but many things in Copihual had suffered from that sudden change of random positions. And I did not know the reason for this event, its origin, or whether it would happen again, but I was very angry, scared, and sad.

A strong feeling of helplessness grew in my heart.

After that, I remember arriving at a large, crowded venue and being inspected again. They then confirmed that I had not suffered any major physical injuries, and they asked me to wait in a seat.

I saw a lot of people (too many) moving around, worried, making or receiving calls, but I could do nothing but watch in silence, wondering about Dad.

Where he had ended up, whether he was safe, or whether I would see him again soon… The truth is, I was very confused, but if there was one thing I, as a child, already knew, it was that wounds were bad.

When you get hit and something hurts, that is bad. If it hurts a lot or if you see any blood, it is very bad. I have never lost the ability to move a part of my body because of a blow, but in that case, that must be horribly bad...

And if, after an accident, a person cannot recover from their injuries, or if they become completely unresponsive, like a spider after being stepped on, then... All I could do was hope Dad was okay.

After a while, I heard someone calling my name. It was a familiar voice, but not the one I had expected, so I was surprised. It was not my dad's, but my mom's.

Somehow, she had made her way to wherever we were. Her hair was messy, her eyes red, and her skin pale.

She looked desperate, as if she were about to explode at any moment. But at the same time, she looked calm, as if she already had.

She stared at me for a few seconds. Her blue eyes, perfectly matching, connected with mine, and then she ran to hug me. This time, she was the one who took off my mask, looking at me with so many questions in her head, and then she gave me another hug. And then another.

Although she used to hug me often, this particular time was different. I could say it was almost therapeutic, for both her and me.

I no longer had any idea what was happening, or why, or since when, or because of whom or against what…

But at least I had Mom by my side. And she had me, in case I could help her in any way. And if I had the chance, I would do it without hesitation… And Dad too, of course.

But that last possibility never presented itself to me.