CHAPTER 4
It's a bright morning. Unlike most mornings, Mikael's routine did not go smoothly today. He woke up late. He felt very tired. He was so pre-occupied that he didn't know what he was thinking about. He was moving at a sluggish pace throughout the morning. After cleaning the entire house, he intended to go alone to Nana Maria's place. Before leaving, he whispered to Lulu to stay with Mama at home. At first, Lulu protested when she saw Magda remaining seated as usual. After some coaxing, he tempted his sister with Nana Maria's cookies. Lulu gave in and nodded. Her brother hugged her tightly. With her little finger, she made her brother promise to return home as soon as possible, bring cookies and play with her. He merely laughed. He too offered his little finger to show that he intended to keep all his promises made to her.
Mikael lovingly kissed Magda's forehead. He whispered that he won't be taking Lulu with him this time. He asked if she could play with Lulu. As usual, Magda remained silent. For a while, he directed his look towards Lulu, and then turned with a blank look towards the window. He took a very deep breath. His feelings were in turmoil. He couldn't understand why he was being so emotional that morning. He rushed out of the house without looking back. He had let Happy into the house to keep Lulu company in the room. Then he ran to Nana Maria's house. His feeling didn't return to normal. He didn't slow down although he was gasping for air. He was already late. He was sure Nana would be overwhelmed with customers. He felt guilty.
Perspiration dripped from his hair and onto his face when he reached Nana's house. However, he didn't see any customers there. He was very puzzled. The "Open" sign card was not displayed. He was wondering whether the store was closed for that day. Looking around, his eyes searched for Nana. He didn't see Nana Maria. Leaves scattered all over the place. He sat in front of the door of Nana's house, feeling very exhausted. He knocked a few times. However, there was no sign of Nana inside. Mikael was very worried. He was confused as he didn't know what to do after that. Finally, feeling unsteady he walked away from the house. His mind was still in turmoil.
He didn't know where he must go. He hasn't got any money for his mama that morning. Confused, he walked, letting his feet do the work. He was not aware that he had reached the market. Again, feeling confused, he sat down in an old chair near the chicken vendor who was busy serving his customer. His was silent. With a very blank look. He was not aware that one by one the customers had left the chicken vendor. He also did not know that the vendor was watching him, with sadness.
"Hi, you! What's wrong? Looks like you're not your usual self? What's the problem?" asked the chicken vendor. Mikael didn't hear him. Finally, the chicken vendor gently tapped him on his shoulder. He was stunned. He was shocked to see the smiling face of a man observing him. He repeated his question.
Mikael shook his head sadly. "This morning I couldn't sell any eggs to you because I woke up late and had to take care of the house. Then, because I was very late, I went straight to Nana Maria to help her. However, she wasn't there. I don't want to go home yet. I'm still sad and confused."
The chicken vendor listened closely to Mikael. After listening, he returned to his table and left Mikael alone. The vendor then put something into a big cloth bag. Then he handed it over to Mikael. "What's this, Sir?" asked Mikael in surprise.
The vendor only smiled. "For you, Son. Now go home. Don't be alone in the market. See? The market is already no longer busy. Better for you to go home. Give this to your mother so that she can make a delicious dish!" the vendor said. Mikael stood up, peeped into the cloth bag. He was surprised. He gasped in astonishment when he saw a very big chicken, some eggs, and fresh vegetables inside. "Sir, you're very kind! I'm not able to pay you, Sir," said Mikael while trying to hold back his tears. The kind-hearted vendor merely shook his head. Then with his hand he waved him off. He wanted Mikael to leave immediately. Filled with gratitude, Mikael nodded. He looked closely at the vendor's face. Then Mikael ran with excitement. He ran home as though he had won a prize. He couldn't wait to let his mama know of his good fortune that he had just now. With his right-hand swinging, he tried to carry the heavy cloth bag.
Suddenly, from the opposite direction a car was speeding and swerved towards him. Mikael was stunned. He couldn't avoid it. The car's hood crashed into his body. It seemed that the driver was feeling very drowsy, opened his eyes and instantly stopped his car. When he turned to look back, he saw Mikael's body had already fallen onto the asphalt road. For a moment he was stunned. The driver was trembling violently. Slowly he got out from the car. However, he returned to his car. He changed his mind about helping the victim. He stepped on the accelerator and sped off, leaving Mikael's body there.
As usual, Oom Rafael was singing along to the rhythm of the song from the cassette player in his car. Suddenly, he was shocked. He stopped and rubbed his eyes to see more clearly what was in front of him. Stunned, he immediately jumped out of the car. He turned Mikael's body, which was already limp. Oom Rafael checked Mikael's pulse. He didn't feel any heartbeat at all. Slowly, he lifted Mikael's body and very carefully laid him down. Then he rushed at full speed to the hospital.
On reaching the hospital, he shouted for the paramedics. Very swiftly a few came to help. The seconds felt like hours. He felt helpless, in a state of uncertainty, while waiting in front of the emergency unit's door. A few seconds later, a confident-looking middle-aged doctor came out and very quietly looked at him. "Forgive us. That good-looking child is gone," said the doctor. Oom Rafael instantly covered his face, crying silently. When he was able to control his emotions, he asked if it he could see Mikael. The doctor nodded and accompanied him into the room. Oom Rafael was touched to see a very peaceful look on Mikael's stiff face. He touched Mikael's hand and prayed silently. "This child is special. He left this world in peace. This is the first time I've seen a hit-and-run case where the body is not damaged at all!" the doctor said slowly.
Oom Rafael merely nodded. "Yes, this child is very special. He's loved by the angels in heaven. I believe that!" Oom Rafael said softly. Oom Rafael was teary. He didn't have the heart to see Mikael's stiff body. He cursed as to why that had to happen. He pressed his hands to the wall and sobbed. The doctor who saw him crying. Finally, could not control his emotions. He touched Oom Rafael's shoulder from the back. He reminded Oom Rafael to remain calm so that the process of arranging for Mikael's funeral could be done immediately.
Oom Rafael nodded slowly. The doctor moved, to leave the morgue. Oom Rafael was silent wiping off his tears. He searched for a tap to wet his face with water, looked at himself in the mirror, shook his head in despair. The most difficult part for Oom Rafael was to tell Magda, Mikael's mother. Driving in silence, without the music in his car, he arrived at Mikael's house. He knocked slowly on the door. The door was opened from within. Magda and Lulu were sitting on the floor near the couch. Magda looked up, surprised to see a guest at the front door. Slowly she stood up and walked towards the door, with Lulu following behind her. "What's wrong, Rafael? It's been a long while!" Magda said, puzzled.
Oom Rafael held Magda tightly while Lulu watched the two old people. "Forgive me! Forgive me, Magda," Oom Rafael said. Magda moved away from Oom Rafael's hug. She was staring and very uncertain. Her eyes were no longer calm looking. Oom Rafael's shoulder drooped further. However, he kept looking at the woman as though to give her strength. "Your child, Mikael, is happy in heaven," he said softly. "I found him on the road with a cloth bag full of food scattered beside him. I tried to save him by bringing him to the hospital. However, God has beautiful plans for him. Forgive me," Oom Rafael said, unable to control his tears. After saying that, he held both her hands. He hugged her. The woman was silent, limp and a second later she fainted.
Magda regained consciousness when she felt her hair being stroked gently. Slowly she opened her eyes. She tried to look around her. She was on her bed. Beside her was Lulu still playing with her doll. On her right she saw Nana Maria who kept stroking her hair and holding her hands. "You're awake, My Child," Nana said gently. "Come on, drink your warm tea first." Slowly Magda drank a little bit of the very fragrant tea. "My child, you must be strong. God must have plans for all this." Magda looked at Nana tearfully and clutched Nana's small body.
"Why, Nana! Why is God punishing me so harshly like this? Still mourning for my husband, and now for my son!" The woman broke into tears. Her body shaking. She hugged Nana even more tightly.
"Get it all out. All your sadness until there's nothing left. However, you must recover after this. Your husband already died two years ago. You have mourned long enough. All this while it was Mikael who took over the role of your husband. It's time for you to be strong. Look, there is little Lulu who needs you. Don't waste God's blessing, my child." Tender, yet sharp and meaningful piece of advice from Nana just now. "Look at this little angel. She's sad looking at you!" Nana Maria said while pointing in Lulu's direction. Magda turned away her face. From behind her tears, she looked at Lulu's pretty face. Lulu also gazed at her, and then sat down to hug her from the side.
"Mama, what's wrong? Where's Tatat?" Magda shook her head and hugged Lulu in turn.
"I can't go through all these, Nana!" Magda said while enveloping Lulu around her arms.
Nana held her hands tightly. "Yes. You can! Be strong with your energy from within you, my child!"
Oom Rafael moved closer to them. "Come on, we must get Mikael out from the hospital and pay our last respects to him. Let me be responsible for the entire funeral process. It's one form of my respect to Mikael." Oom Rafael said. Magda walked slowly with Nana on her right. Oom Rafael, on her left, was carrying Lulu. They walked towards the mortuary.
Slowly the caretaker opened the cabinet. Magda was shocked, unable to hold back her cries. Spontaneously she hugged Mikael's body, which had become cold. "Oh, my child, oh my child! Wake up, my son!" Oom Rafael asked Magda to be calm.
Nana rubbed Mikael's cold face. "See? He really looks like he's sleeping. His face looks so at peace," Nana said.
Lulu looked at brother's face. "Mama, why is Tatat sleeping here? Come on, Tatat. Wake up! Play with Lulu!"
"Come on, let's get on with this, my child. Let's bathe Mikael for the last time and bring his body home. The grave near the house has been prepared by Rafael. It's next to your husband's grave." Magda stood up slowly and with Nana, they would do a cleansing ritual by giving Mikael his last bath. Lulu didn't join them. "You mustn't cry when bathing Mikael. You must be strong!" Nana said.
Magda nodded, trying to be strong. Lovingly Magda started to rub gently Mikael's whole body as she soaped, sprayed and dried him. Nana sang softly to accompany Magda bathing Mikael. Magda kept her promise to Nana. She didn't cry at all throughout the washing ritual. She continued to gaze lovingly at the boy's face and body. Meanwhile, Nana, while singing, was looking at Magda and Mikael. Her hands were clasped to her chest. She closed her eyes a few times in her effort to remain strong. She already knew this would happen. Nevertheless, it was very difficult for her to be tough and strong.
The funeral ceremony for Mikael was very simple. Oom Rafael arranged for a priest from the city to perform the prayers. Only Magda, Nana, Lulu, Oom Rafael, and Happy - their beloved dog - attended. Magda was holding white roses, Oom Rafael a white dove. Nana had a vase filled with small flowers. Lulu had a worn-out-looking story book. After the prayers by the priest, Magda asked Lulu to place the story book on top of her brother's casket. Lulu looked quietly at Magda, stayed silent for a long while before hugging her book. "Tatat, remember to read story books. Yes?" Lulu said, without understanding what was happening. Then she placed her favourite book. Magda laid the flowers right at the centre on top of the casket.
Then two of Oom Rafael's staff came in. They started to shovel the mounds of earth into the grave to bury the body. Nana sprinkled petals from the beautiful small flowers and shaped them into the symbol of a heart, and then kissed Mikael's headstone. Finally, Oom Rafael with a white dove in both hands, shouted: "Goodbye, my dear son Mikael. Wherever you may be, be the angel for your family!" The dove flew straight up into the sky and away from them. Lulu, who had been quiet, was watching that bird. Magda couldn't bear to look at Lulu. Oom Rafael finally carried her and whispered. "My dear, brother is already in heaven, is very happy. It's true he's not with you anymore. Talk to him when you're praying, dear."
Lulu shook her head, not understanding. From the beginning she wasn't told of anything by the adults around her. "But Tatat promised to come home to read me stories and give me cookies from Nana!" Lulu pouted and started to cry in annoyance. Oom Rafael was confused. He didn't know what else to say. Nana overheard Lulu's comments and promptly reached into her small bag. There were Lulu's favourite chocolate cookies. She gave them to Lulu.
"Here, the cookies, dear. Brother can't give them to you personally. Now, Nana is giving them to you, Honey."
Immediately, Lulu looked towards the delicious cookies. "Is that all?" Nana smiled on hearing that. She stroked Lulu's hair, and indicated to Oom Rafael to leave the burial ground. Still in Oom Rafael's arm, Lulu ate happily. She nibbled at her cookies so that she wouldn't finish them too quickly. Magda also walked away from the grave site. Only Happy remained there, in front of the wet earth pile. The dog observed with a very sad look at the mound of earth. Her tail was tucked under her body. She howled in grief. Oom Rafael shouted.
"Hi, Happy! Let's go home, come on!" Happy turned to look at Oom Rafael, but returned her gaze to the mound of earth. She seemed unwilling to leave her beloved boss alone there.
"Come on, Happy!" Lulu said while chewing her cookies. Happy continued to bark and howl in grief, and then followed them. However, she looked back a few times to make sure Mikael was sleeping peacefully there.
CHAPTER 5
White. Dazzling. Seen from the corner of the eye, the light was very bright. Not knowing why, the light nevertheless made the heart feel at peace. From its sheen, something slowly appeared, something that flew. Very small. Very beautiful. "Oh, My God! It looks like that woman who came to me when I had difficulty sleeping last night!" he cried in his mind.
Fluttering her wings, that small lady came closer. Now Mikael could clearly see what it was. Golden wings, matching her very long curly hair. There was a crown with small golden flowers encircling it. The woman's eyes were big, round and black. Her lips were red and small, her cheeks full and her fingers very slender. Wearing a white cloak mixed with gold, glass shoes, her right hand held a small golden wand. However, as though aware of Mikael watching her closely, the lady laughed and offered her left hand and with a sweet smile. Mikael also offered his hand. "Who are you?"
"I'm the mother of all fairies in heaven!" she said. It seemed that she was a fairy. Mikael stared. "Heaven?" That's my papa's place, right?"
Again, the lady who called herself the Fairy Godmother, smiled. "Yes, heaven. Your Papa's already there. But it's not your time yet. You still have important tasks to do!" Mikael stared. So many questions running in his mind. He couldn't get them out one by one. The fairy smiled again. "Don't ask too many questions. Here, let me explain as I fly!" she said.
Mikael accepted her outstretched hand. His body felt very light. "Wow! My body is really light," he was thinking to himself.
"Don't let go of my hand. Hold my hand tightly!" Mikael was brought to a place. A main road. He was so stunned to see his body sprawled there. He was floating high above his own body. Not only that. He also saw Oom Rafael's car nearby. He observed Oom Rafael's entire reaction on seeing him lying on the road. "You've died, my Child. You are now an angel. An angel with tasks to do on earth!" the woman whispered.
Mikael looked at the woman's eyes. "Can she hear me?" Mikael asked.
The woman smiled. "Depends! It depends on the purity of a person's soul in order to be able to communicate with you."
"Will they be able to feel my presence?" That entire day Mikael was shown what had happened to him and his family. He was shocked to see Magda, his mama, fainting twice. He tried several times to hug that woman. But it was like hugging the air, he didn't feel anything. The Fairy Godmother laughed on seeing his reactions. When the sun began to set, Mikael saw his body inside the grave. His mama crying in silence with Nana supporting her. Lulu, meanwhile, was asleep in Oom Rafael's arms. And, Mikael was pensive with his own thoughts. After a long silence, he spoke. "How do I call you, Madam?" Mikael asked the pretty fairy.
She looked gently at Mikael's face. "Call me Kerlip."
Mikael widened his eyes. "What? Kerlip?" The fairy laughed heartily. "Yes, all the fairies in heaven call me Kerlip. Because I'm the flickering of eternal life."
Mikael was quiet. "So, what are my tasks, Kerlip? Why did I die? Didn't I still have a lot of work on earth? I feel sorry for Mama and Lulu," Mikael said, covering his face as he cried.
"Go ahead and cry, as much as you want. Then keep in mind my words. Your job is to make changes in the life of your family, especially for your mother. Guide her so that she is passionate about living. Your Papa couldn't do that. Now it's you who must do this. Your mother will enter hell if she doesn't want to change everything. Starting from her personality, behaviour, thoughts, and her emotions. And there is only one condition in carrying out the task: without conditions!" Kerlip said.
"You're assigned this task because you are a kid with wisdom. I'm sure you can do it. You have only three months, starting now. Later, after exactly three months, at this same place, I will return to see you. But before that, I will never ever leave you. I will always be present whispering in the air. If you fail in carrying out your task, you can ask for more time but only once. However, if you still fail in the given time, you remain a small angel in another world. You won't be going to heaven. You'll forever not have wings. Wings will be given if you succeed in your task and you'll be part of the fairies in heaven. For now, you can fly freely by just making use of your light body. Understand?"
He didn't have the chance to understand all that the fairy, Kerlip, had told him, but she had already disappeared. She left beautiful twinkling lights in front of him. Mikael was confused. He tried to understand but was not able to. Not knowing how much later, Mikael started to fly, wandering aimlessly, and feeling empty, confused, quiet and sad. Throughout his adventures, he didn't see anything nor meet anyone. Mother Nature was so cold. He could only cry and then stayed quiet and cried again. When hungry, he ate whatever he could find. He tried to survive with whatever enthusiasm that he had within himself.
After some time, he came across a beautiful place. A place that he had never seen before. It was like a forest, but wasn't spooky. Golden yellow everywhere as in spring. Its colour was dominant! Various wild animals roaming. But they seemed to ignore him. In fact, they chose to keep their distance each time Mikael tried to approach them. As he went deeper into the forest, he saw many interesting places inside. There were very deep caves, cold but filled with light. There were powerful waterfalls that flowed strongly with water that was very clear. There were thousands of yellow birds, hundreds of flowers species and various kinds of trees. Mikael liked being there so much. But each time he was there, he was reminded of a voice - Kerlip's voice. "You must not waste time. Your assignment is already waiting for you!" the fairy said. "Try to concentrate, and discover something from inside the cave."
Countless times Mikael tried to understand those whispers, but he always failed. When he was bored, he always returned to his house. He saw Magda - his mama - her mind always far away, Lulu playing happily beside Magda. This scene always hurt him. Life seemed to have been frozen each time he came to that old house. Magda remained the same. Lulu had grown a little taller but now looked a little thinner. Poor Lulu. No one to read her stories. Every day her work seemed to be turning back and forth the pages from the story books, whining when asking her mama to read to her. Magda merely shook her head. After that Lulu would lie on the couch playing with the story books. Sometimes she had that faraway look. "Tatat, read!" she said softly while hugging the story book until she fell asleep.
Magda didn't care at all. She had gotten worse. Mikael always tried to greet Magda but always failing to reach her. This was the reason he didn't like to visit the house for too long. It was depressing. It was the same when he visited Nana Maria's house. Nana was getting thinner, the small house and store no longer well kept. But, each time Mikael visited, Nana seemed as though to have felt his presence. She would then look around her, searching for the figure of Mikael when in reality he was in front of her. Often Nana seemed to be talking to herself. Mikael could only cry on seeing her. He tried to give Nana a bear hug but it felt empty.
Meanwhile, Oom Rafael continued to live in his own world. He seemed thinner than before. Now he had a new habit; always stopping by the road side where Mikael used to wait for him for a lift to the market. Oom Rafael would park his car there for a few seconds, with the passenger door opened as though to welcome passengers who wanted to get in. Then with a sad look, he would drive away to the market. Mikael knew that this kind-hearted man felt his absence. The ritual of going to the market together, singing loudly, and looking at each other making funny faces.
Mikael sat on the rooftop looking at the dark sky of the night. He was thinking that he had nothing to show with the passage of one month. He had no idea as to how to go about with the special assignment from Kerlip. So far, he tried to observe his family but that didn't seem to help. He tried to communicate with them, but again he always failed. He was truly sad. Unconsciously he cried in front of his house. Suddenly, he was surprised by Happy's low barking. Happy seemed to be looking at him from below. Happy seemed to miss him. Mikael missed him, too. Earlier, he had repeatedly tried to hug Happy but failed because of the barrier between them, and Happy seemed confused. Mikael wiped his tears. Then slowly he lowered himself, entering the house through the chimney.
He saw Magda and Lulu sound asleep. Slowly, he stroked Lulu's soft cheeks. He had finally managed to break the barrier. This time very slowly he did it longingly and lovingly. Lulu began to move. Mikael continued to stroke her cheeks. Lulu woke up. Her eyes opened slowly. She saw Mikael. Lulu was shocked, and immediately she sat up. "Tatat!"
Mikael was also shocked. But enthusiastically and spontaneously he pulled Lulu's hand and then started to run out of the house. Mikael stopped. This time he looked lovingly at his dog and nodded. He squeezed Happy confidently. He closed his eyes. He could feel Happy's soft fur rubbing his body. He laughed while Happy was barking happily. "Oh, Lulu and Happy! How I miss you guys so much!" Mikael said while hugging both of them. "Do you guys want to go on an adventure with me?" Without any second thoughts, Lulu and Happy nodded. Mikael laughed happily. He carried Lulu on his back. Then they flew through the dark night. Lulu's hair and Happy's fur were blowing with the night wind. Lulu couldn't stop wondering in amazement.
"Wow!" Looking down, she enjoyed the sight of sparkling lights below. Her body felt warm as it was in direct contact with Mikael's back. She had no fear at all. She was so happy to see her brother. She hugged his waist firmly as though she didn't want him to leave. Happy was flying gracefully beside them. His fur looked so beautiful blowing against the wind. A few seconds later and after passing through the thousands of stars among the dark clouds, they reached Mikael's favourite forest. Lulu was amazed. Still holding Mikael's hand, her face didn't stop radiating her happiness. Happy felt the same, too. Tail tucked in, eyes shining, mouth opened and tongue stretched out.
"Come on!" Mikael said excitedly. This time Mikael asked them to walk and enter the cave. A group of monkeys was sleeping in the middle of the road. For a moment they were surprised to see Happy, but then nodded to Mikael. The first stop Mikael intended was a lake with a waterfall. He was sure that Lulu would be thirsty after that long walk.
"Water, Tatat. Water!" True enough. Arriving at the lake, Lulu was so excited on seeing the water. Her big round eyes staring around her while jumping and shouting loudly. Mikael remained on the edge of the lake while looking around him with a sense of awe. He was so happy looking at that view.
"Come on, Lulu, do you want to go up to the waterfall?" Lulu, still playing in the water, looked at him and nodded. Hurriedly she walked to the edge of the lake with Happy following. On reaching the edge of the lake, their bodies instantly became dry. Lulu and Happy were puzzled.
"Tatat, clothes dry! So fast?" Lulu asked. Mikael merely smiled, took Lulu's hand and whispered something into her right ear. "It`s magic, Lulu!" She looked at her brother's face. It had such a very happy look. They flew again and stopped at the peak of the waterfall. Very high. Lulu looked downward. She was scared. She hugged Mikael's legs tightly. Happy also moved backwards gradually. Mikael was talking while bending his body and holding Lulu and Happy's body. "I will not hurt you guys. I will always protect you all. You guys believe me, right? Lulu hugged her brother very tightly. Mikael was tearing up. He didn't expect his sister to miss him so much. Happy was barking as a sign to show he agreed to what Mikael said.
"Ready, you guys?" Happy wagged her tail vigorously to show agreement. This time Mikael carried Lulu on his back. "One, two, three! Off we go!" They swooped gracefully resisting the earth's gravity. Lulu could feel the cold air on her cheeks, her hair fluttering in the wind. Her body wet by water droplets from the waterfall. What she loved most was the amazing view as they were gliding up and down. Fantastic!
The waterfall was situated between two golden green valleys. Near the valleys, they swooped seeing the thousands of beautiful colourful flowers. Lulu had no fear. She was so happy. He turned sideways. He laughed seeing Happy happily wagging her tail in all directions. Although it was still dark, the view around them was stunning. Coming closer to the ground, Mikael swooped dramatically, avoiding the water as they moved above the surface of the lake. Lulu shouted joyfully. From above, the water looked so clear, filled with hundreds of colourful fish inside. A scene Lulu had never seen before. Happy was barking when she saw a group of turtles swimming. "Ha-ha-ha! You have never seen turtles before, right? My Happy, dear!" Mikael said.
"Wow!" Only this exclamation came out of Lulu's mouth when she saw a tree with seven huge branches. It looked strange, unique, and gave plenty of shade - its branches in all directions. From the lush foliage, red and yellow fruits seem to pop up. Around it, were dozens of other trees with shapes which were just as strange and the sheer number of branches. From behind the lush greens were some squirrels and a variety of birds. Happy was stunned looking at that tree. She stiffened her tail upwards. Her head up. Mikael smiled. "This tree is so beautiful. I like it here, Lulu. Come on, I'll show something even more unusual!" Mikael said. Holding Lulu's hand, they walked among the trees. Rustling sounds there seemed scary yet they seemed also to bring a sense of peace. After passing through those eleven trees, Lulu and Happy were quiet again. Until they saw an astonishing sight.
In front of them was a cave. It was huge, mysterious looking, and a cool beam of light came out from inside the cave. In front of the cave's entrance was a strange short straight tree on the left and another on the right, acting like two security guards. Lulu squeezed Mikael's hand. Happy moved closer to Mikael's legs. "It's all right. This is the most beautiful place. The most amazing place here. Come on, I'll show you something that will make you happy, my dear sister!" Nearing the cave, they walked slowly. Lulu whimpered and immediately grabbed Mikael as they passed the two strange trees. Sounds came out from the trees. Lulu looked around. The two trees seemed to have eyes, nose, ears and mouth – complete features of a human! Mikael stroked Lulu's head, and then stopped and spoke to that tree.
"It's all right. It's my sister and my favourite dog." The trees nodded and smiled. Lulu looked from behind Mikael's back. She was afraid to look directly at those strange trees with a human face. On entering the cave, Lulu was dumbfounded by its beauty. She asked Mikael to let her down. Then they walked further in without any fear. A lovely smell filled the cave. Lights from inside shone with each step they took. They avoided the bats, which flew over their heads a few times.
The bats in flight looked so beautiful. They had black wings with golden spots on each wing, very different from the bats from story books we knew. The sounds from the bats were also strange, melodious and gentle. Lulu's eyes widened to watch those beautiful bats. There were so many and finally her neck hurt from looking up too long.
Finally, Mikael rested. Lulu turned. "What's wrong, Tatat?" asked Lulu. Mikael smiled. He pointed to one of the walls of the cave. Lulu eyes followed the direction of Mikael's hand. Lulu gawked. There was nothing in there. Excitedly Mikael walked Lulu to the wall.
"This is magic, Lulu. Try knocking on the wall like this!" Mikael demonstrated. Lulu tried. Even Happy imitated. Nothing happened. Silence. Then the trio knocked simultaneously while looking at one another. A few seconds later, the wall shifted. There were lights of another kind from inside. This time a soft blue.
"Come on, let's go in!" Without asking their permission, Mikael hurried in pulling Lulu's hand. She jumped, screaming with joy. There were so many books and amusing colourful toys which she had never seen before. There was a small round beautiful table, complete with three chairs. In the middle of the table was a ball made from clear glass but it emitted golden lights. Next to the ball was a small wand hovering in the air and beaming golden lights. Those items caught Lulu's and Happy's attention. Both moved closer to the table, hoping to touch everything there.
"Lulu, don't touch anything! You can only look!" Mikael whispered. Lulu nodded with annoyance without turning around. When Lulu was near the ball, she looked closely at it. The golden light from inside the ball changed to pink, and then to a light blue and then to other beautiful colours. The small wand began circling each time the ball beamed a different colour. Lulu's beautiful eyes stared. She was so amazed by all these magical things.
"Come here, Lulu. You haven't read any stories for a long time, right?" Mikael urged his sister to move closer to him. His hands were holding five books of different sizes. Lulu looked very happy. She ran to Mikael. "Sit down!" Mikael said. "Which one, Lulu?" Mikael offered his sister five books. She looked quickly to see which book cover was the most interesting. Lulu chose a book which wasn't too big, with the title "MOM." Mikael looked at Lulu's really round eyes. He was wondering why Lulu chose a book which was not interesting. "You're sure, Lulu? There are still lots that are good and funny," Mikael said, while offering a few other books in front of them that looked more interesting.
Lulu shook her head vigorously and pushed aside those books. Happy was also barking. "Fine!" Mikael gave up. On turning over the book cover Mikael was stunned for a long while. He noticed that the inside of the book was not what he usually saw in a book. This book was like a puzzle! He tried to turn to the next page, but couldn't. A voice whispered into his ear. "Solve that puzzle first."
"Tatat. Hurry up!" Lulu said impatiently.
"Ehm… Lulu. I think we must play with this first page because I can't find the story. Come, help me with this puzzle!" Mikael counted quickly in his mind the number of puzzle pieces he must arrange. "Twelve pieces," he mumbled to himself. "Lulu, Happy, let's play now? We must fit these pieces so that they become one beautiful whole picture," Mikael said while looking at the pieces of the puzzle. Lulu was quiet, waiting. She didn't understand what her brother was saying. "Look, Lulu! It looks like a picture of a butterfly. Here, see? The butterfly" Lulu looked at it and nodded. After playing with the other pieces, Mikael exclaimed excitedly. "Look, some pieces have been arranged!"
In front of them were some smaller pieces which were already arranged to show a beautiful tree. Only then did Lulu understand what her brother meant. Her small hands began to play with other pieces. "This, Tatat?" she said as succeeded in joining a picture. They became even more curious with the remaining pieces.
A few seconds later, Mikael exclaimed. "Yeah! At last! Done!" When the last piece of the picture was finally fitted in, a golden light suddenly appeared from the outline of the picture to join all the pieces.
"Wow! So beautiful! What's this, Tatat?" Lulu asked enthusiastically. Happy was also barking and wagging her tail. Mikael was fascinated by the beautiful picture in front of him. There was a big tree, a mountain and behind the mountain was a village full of beautiful colourful butterflies.
"Mmm… Lulu, beautiful? Come on, let's go to the next page," Mikael said while trying to turn the page but failed.
"Look carefully at the picture in front of you. Each picture has a meaning. You must be able to understand first," Kerlip whispered into Mikael's ear. Unconsciously, Mikael scratched his head. He didn't understand. What did she mean? Slowly, Mikael took a deep breath, then slowly breathed out. Then, he touched Lulu's hand gently. "Lulu, help brother see what is strange in this picture."
Meanwhile Happy was barking loudly and impatiently. She was scratching with her paws on one of the pictures. Mikael wanted to know why Happy was acting like that. He took a closer look again at that picture. There was a very large butterfly snagged on one of the tall trees which had a lot of branches and leaves. The butterfly seemed to be carrying a small butterfly on its back. "What's this? Do I have to go there to rescue her?"
Kerlip whistled with her lips. Mikael looked surprise when he realised Kerlip was just next to his face. But Happy and Lulu couldn't see her. Mikael was silent again. "Where's this? I don't know this place," Mikael was wondering.
"Look carefully. No doubt there are guidelines and directions in the picture. Come on, don't think too much, just do it. You don't have much time," Kerlip whispered back.
"Can I bring this book with me?" Mikael said.
Kerlip shook her head. "No, after you have succeeded in finishing your assignment, you all must come back here, and see what happens after that. A belief in yourself will bring you to your destination. You only need to find out the directions from the picture. Visualize the picture in your mind. Trust me that you are able to save her and everything will go well."
Mikael complied to all of Kerlip's suggestions. On and off, he closed his eyes, trying to remember the whole picture in his mind. He then closed the book. "Come on, I'm ready now! Lulu, Happy, we're going on an adventure again!" Mikael put the book on top of the round table. They walked away from that beautiful cave. The bats were still swilling above them. Lulu was hopping excitedly.
"Tatat, are we going again?" Her brother merely smiled while playing with Lulu's hair. They continued to walk towards the cave's door until they came out into the open.
"Here, Lulu. Tatat, carry you." Lulu nodded happily. "Ready? Let's count, Lulu. One, two, three!" They flew gracefully. Lulu again was screaming with joy and laughing heartily at Happy's tail fanning vigorously. The longer they flew, the higher they climbed. The air was still cold. The rays from the morning sun peeped out shyly from the sky. They flew across the clouds. A few birds flew past them. Each time the birds appeared, Lulu screamed excitedly. She tried to catch them with her other hand. Mikael reminded her not to move or they would fall. Lulu obeyed. She was quiet but her eyes were surveying and enjoying the scenes of birds in flight around her. Mikael's mind was filled with beautiful pictures, and of the big butterfly that seemed to be in pain. They flew past hills and valleys which were absolutely stunning. Lulu was so excited. Hundreds of sheep with milky white wool were gathered down there.
Mikael laughed. "Those are sheep, Lulu dear!" Happy was barking much louder than the howling wind. Mikael looked at Happy, nodded and shouted. "Yep, Happy, you're right. We'll be there soon. I feel it." True enough. Not long after that, Mikael saw dozens of very tall trees. Their shapes were exactly like those in the picture book. Behind those trees stood a majestic continuous mountain range. Extraordinarily beautiful! The mountain radiated great power. From a distance it looked blue, and at a closer distance a moss green to nearly black.
They stopped on one of the highest mountain peaks. Lulu was playing with the white clouds around them. Thick fog blanketed that mountain. However, they didn't feel cold at all. As far as the eye could see, they saw nothing in front of them except white. Everything was enveloped by the fog. Again, Mikael took a long deep breath and then slowly exhaled while he focussed his attention on the picture from the puzzle book in his mind. He believed that he could see what was behind the white fog. He believed that there was a butterfly village in front of them. He continued to visualize it in his mind. Then, slowly he heard a whooshing sound as the fog disappeared. And in front of them, faintly but then hundreds of beautiful butterflies were seen flying among the trees and valleys behind the mountains. Lulu screamed with happiness. "Tatat! Butterflies, so many!"
Mikael was amazed. He had never seen so many colours and varieties of patterns in butterflies. The combinations of colours in each wing of the butterflies in front of him were amazing. He lifted Lulu and carried her again. "Let's save Big Butterfly!" Flying past trees and colliding with so many species of butterflies was a unique experience. That Butterfly had beautiful eyes with great eyelashes. They looked like lights. Below them were lots of beautiful colourful flowers. Suddenly Mikael saw an interesting tree that caught his attention. It was a large tree with lush leaves. He swooped and tried to penetrate the leaves and branches. Happy was whimpering and in pain. "Forgive me, Happy!" Mikael was really sorry. "Lulu, please hold brother's body tightly!" Lulu nodded. She was having so much fun flying among the hundreds of beautiful butterflies of different colours, shapes and sizes. Not long after, in front of them was a most unusual view. Lots of butterflies or swarms of them were circling over something. Slowly they approached them, peeping from behind the thick foliage. They were astounded.
"Oh my God!" Mikael screamed in his heart when he saw the biggest butterfly that he had ever seen in his whole life. That butterfly was the size of Mikael's body, and seemed to be crying in pain. A tree branch with a pointed end had pierced its back. There was also a baby butterfly on its back. It was hurt by one of the branches. It was also in pain. Surrounding them were hundreds of other butterflies as though expressing concern but they were unable to help.
Lulu was gawking. Happy, too. She tucked in her tail. "Come on, Lulu!" Slowly they approached the swarms of butterflies. They turned in the direction of Mikael who was hovering in the air. Confidently, Mikael went towards them, and then nodded. Some moved to the right, and some to the left to make way for Mikael. They flapped their wings as a mark of respect to Mikael.
Mikael checked the Giant Butterfly for its source of pain. Meanwhile, Lulu was busy stroking its head to calm it. Happy licked the baby butterfly which was in pain, while trying to pull the branch trapped in its body. The branch was extracted not long after and Happy licked to soothe the pain from wound. A happy smile and an expression of appreciation was clearly evident in the baby butterfly's face. The majority of the butterflies surrounding them were also flapping their wings vigorously as a thank-you gesture for Happy. She was running up and down playing with the baby butterfly. They were so happy and they immediately became friends.
Mikael was surprised. He found the source of the pain. A branch had pierced the Giant Butterfly's body. It was bleeding without stopping. Mikael immediately took a leaf and wrapped the branch with it. He used all his strength to pull the branch out from the Giant Butterfly. It was crying. Lulu stroked its head and wiped the tears with leaves. It definitely was painful. It was bleeding profusely when Mikael tried to pull out the branch. The branch was very heavy. Mikael was groaning trying to use all his strength. The Giant Butterfly was also very strong. It could bear all the pain inflicted. "Stay calm, one more pull. Breathe in and then breathe out. Can you?" Mikael asked, looking into the giant's eyes.
Giant Butterfly blinked both its eyes slowly. It understood what Mikael meant. Mikael saw the Giant Butterfly slowly breathing in. Then, with his left hand, Mikael gave it a thumbs up sign. At the count of three, the Giant Butterfly breathed out. Mikael tried to pull out the end of the branch from Butterfly's body. He succeeded. Mikael immediately used lots of leaves from nearby him to stop the heavy bleeding. Hundreds of butterflies flapped their wings, making a beautiful sound. They were happy and very thankful to Mikael. Meanwhile Lulu was jumping with joy and hugging the Giant Butterfly's neck. Giant Butterfly seemed so exhausted - all its energy drained. Slowly, it opened its wide beautiful colourful wings. It moved to hug Mikael, Lulu and Happy. It was a gesture to show gratitude.
A few seconds after that, Mikael told Butterfly that the wound was getting better gradually. Giant Butterfly nodded and tried with all its power to fly. Baby Butterfly hugged its mama's body tightly. Still in pain. But Giant Butterfly didn't give up and tried again and again. Mikael became worried. "Enough. Try again later. Or you'll be sick again. The wound isn't completely healed!"
Giant Butterfly nodded while smiling. "It's alright. I believe I can fly again. Just as I believe that you would come and heal me. Right?" it said. While smiling, Giant Butterfly tried again to flap its wings. Not long after, it heaved its body. Slowly but surely, it raised its body as it fluttered its wings. "Come on! You guys. Climb onto my back now!" Giant Butterfly invited.
Being on top of Giant Butterfly's back and with its wide wings, gave them a different sensation. They felt a warmth from the protection of the wide wings. And Giant Butterfly seemed to know the direction it must take. Still in awe, they returned to the cave that they had entered earlier. Giant Butterfly landed gracefully and perfectly. It bent its body until it touched the ground so that they could get down.
With its beautiful eyes, Giant Butterfly gazed at Lulu. "Thank you. My subordinates will always be near you to help and guide you in your life," Giant Butterfly said. Then it turned slowly to Mikael. "Thank you. Stay true to your beliefs, and your enthusiasm, Young Man. Change your world!" Finally, Giant Butterfly looked at Happy. "Thank you. You have kept my child calm. You'll never be short of anything, for as long as you live." Happy was barking with her tail wagging. Mikael smiled. Lulu hugged half of Giant Butterfly's neck. Moments later, Giant Butterfly disappeared with the light. The three of them looked at one another. Lulu then wanted them to enter the cave again.
But Mikael stopped her. "Lulu, not now. You must go home first. Mama will be looking for you both. Remember, this is our secret, right? Mama must not know about our secret journey. Understand, Lulu?"
Lulu looked into Mikael's eyes, not understanding why. She started to whine and cried. Happy started barking again. "Tatat, Lulu want to be here only!"
Mikael drew a deep breath. His body bent. "Lulu, my dear sister, it's already morning now. Mama will be worried if you both are still asleep as this time. Come on, my dear sister, go to Mama, eat as usual and then you both can have your nap later. Brother will take you both on another journey here. I promise!" Lulu kept crying. She walked towards the cave. Surprisingly, the tree guarding the cave lengthened its trunk to block the cave's door. Lulu was shocked. She turned away with tears on her face.
"Tatat, Lulu wants to go in but cannot!" she cried sadly.
Mikael smiled. He pulled her hand to be nearer to her. He wiped away his sister's tears. He put Lulu on his right lap. "You understand?" This means that you must go home first!" Lulu finally nodded, slowly wrapping her hands around Mikael's neck. It had been a long time since she hugged her brother's neck. Mikael also couldn't hold back his tears. Meanwhile Happy moved her body closer to Mikael's thigh. Then Mikael hugged both of them together.
"Fine then. Are you both ready? Remember, this is our secret! Now, close your eyes and at the count of three, you both will be back home again. One, two, three!"
CHAPTER 6
Anxiously, Magda watched Lulu's face. By nine o'clock morning, the small child was still asleep. Worries expressed itself on her face because Lulu seemed so happy, smiling in her sleep and sometimes sulking. Very strange! Happy was the same. Sleeping all the time.
Magda kept stroking Lulu's hair. She was fidgeting. Various matters were bothering her. Her fear of losing her child of a month ago surfaced. She was tensed. She ran to look for a calendar. Impatiently, she turned one page at a time of the date marker. Her eyes were frenetic. That day was exactly one month ago that her beloved son, Mikael, left this world forever. She covered her face with both hands. She didn't know that her tears wet both her hands. She didn't know how long she stood like that when suddenly she heard Lulu's babyish voice from behind. "Mama! Lulu hungry!" Magda was surprised and turned around. She saw Lulu standing behind her, holding her long shabby skirt.
"Oh, my Lulu, you're awake, Child!" she said, holding Lulu tightly. Happy also joined them from behind, Barking loudly. Magda laughed happily. "Great, come on. You guys must be really hungry. Lulu, take your bath first, OK?" Magda was cheerfully busy getting the water ready, bathing Lulu and singing softly. Lulu had never seen her mama singing like this.
"Mama, why Mama singing?" asked Lulu and softly stroked her mama's face. Magda merely smiled. "Mama's happy you finally woke up, Lulu. You slept a very long time, Child!" Lulu wanted to say something but promptly Happy barked to remind Lulu. She cannot reveal the secret.
Lulu sat at the dining table. Happy was lying down under her chair. Both seemed very hungry. The moment the food was served, Lulu wanted to start eating at once. And Happy was also impatient to eat everything. She had already eaten part of her meal. Magda scolded Lulu. "Lulu, pray first. Like brother Mikael taught you!" Lulu looked at her mama, feeling guilty. Abruptly she diverted her attention towards the window. She saw lights. Her brother seemed to be sitting on the window, looking at her and moving his index finger to lips as a gesture asking her to be quiet. Lulu nodded slowly while Magda looked at her impatiently, "Come on, Lulu! You're confused? Clasp your hands, Lulu! Dear God, Lulu wants to eat. Bless her with good health and nutrition from this food!"
Lulu started to spoon feed herself. First, she ate the egg, then the bread and sausage. She drank all her milk. Magda was surprised as this was not a normal scene in front of her. She usually ate very little. But this time that child's appetite was most unusual. Magda got up, brought the empty plates to the kitchen. She took Happy's plate. When Magda stood up from her squatting position, three butterflies suddenly were there and flying behind Magda. Beautifully colourful.
"Butterflies!" Lulu shouting and Happy barking at the same time. Lulu looked in the direction of the window, longing to tell her brother about the butterflies that looked exactly like those during their journey. Her brother remained quiet but stunned. Three butterflies continued to follow Magda. She seemed not to notice anything unusual. The moment she turned, one of the yellowish red butterflies settled on her right hand. The other two butterflies were flying near her face.
Magda was surprised. "Oh my God! Where do these beautiful butterflies from?" They didn't move from their place. Always following Magda. One was on top of the stove and the other on Magda's hand. Magda seemed very confused by the presence of those three butterflies. She tried to shoo them away her hands. But those butterflies didn't budge. In fact, they seemed glued in their place. Finally, Magda gave up. She washed the dirty dishes. Then on to sweeping and mopping the house. While doing all those chores, the three butterflies continued flying around her. Lulu sat at the dining table and Happy observed in silence, exchanging glances between them. So did Mikael, who remained on the window, and with great sorrow looked at Magda. Why was mother whom he loved so much getting thinner, disorganized and so pale?
The house was finally clean. Magda sat on the couch. While sighing, she counted the money from Mikael's piggy bank. She sighed softly. Her money was running out. She didn't know where or how to begin. She was hit by her fears. Fear of being without money. She glanced with sadness at the contents of the house. She asked herself what she should do to continue with her life. She didn't have the strength to work. She didn't have the energy and enthusiasm to do anything. She changed her sitting position. She slumped further. Meanwhile the three butterflies continued to be around her.
Lulu walked closer towards Mikael. Mikael whispered to ask Magda to clean the chicken coop. Lulu held Magda's hand. "Come on, Ma! Chicken coop!" Magda looked into Lulu's eyes, with a blank stare. "Come on, Ma! Chicken coop!" Magda shook her head. She was just silent. Lulu pulled her hand. "Mama, come on!" Lulu pulled Magda's hand again when she herself fell down. Happy barked loudly. Magda pulled away her hands from Lulu. Then, held on Lulu for support and to get herself up from the floor. She took her sewing kits, and began pinching her hands. Actually, Magda wasn't really sewing. Her eyes had that blank look. Lulu sat next to her and looked at Mikael, who seemed very annoyed, sad and also disappointed. Of course, nobody could hear his voice. A moment later a knock from outside could be heard. Magda was shocked. Quickly she walked to the door.
In front of her stood Oom Rafael with a bag full of food. "I brought this for you," said Oom Rafael while looking at Lulu and then back at Magda. "When are you going to get over and start over your life? I feel sorry for Lulu. She's getting bigger. The condition of your house outside is a mess. Let me help you clean up everything!"
Magda declined slowly. "No need to bother, Rafael. I'm fine!"
"What's it that is fine? You don't appreciate Mikael at all if you continue to be like this. You also don't value your late husband. Both men were very hard-working, full of enthusiasm and loved their home. They are now in heaven and now it's your responsibility to continue what they have started. Remember, you have a daughter who is still small. You must care for her!" Oh dear! what is this Butterfly? The colour is so beautiful! And why are they circling over us?" Oom Rafael asked while observing and wondering about the three butterflies that were always flying around them.
"I always take good care of Lulu. She's very healthy. You can see for yourself, right? Thank you for your help, Rafael. You're very kind. There's no need to bring anything for me next time!" Magda said, trying to emphasize her request with her voice. Magda walked slowly to the kitchen with the groceries from Oom Rafael. While making a sigh, she put all the food in the refrigerator. "These can last for two weeks," Magda was thinking while checking the items one-by-one: chicken, eggs, carrots, vegetables, apple, papaya and bananas. She was wondering why Oom Rafael made this generous gesture. She was actually very thankful to have a good friend like Oom Rafael. She realized she was being rude to him earlier. She wished she had apologized but now cannot reach him. She was silent until she was surprised by Lulu in her childish-sounding voice, laughing with Happy. Magda walked towards them. "Lulu, love. Time for your nap!"
Lulu shouted happily. "Hooray, sleep. Come on, Happy, sleep!" Magda was surprised. Lulu never liked it if asked to take a nap. "This child is acting very strange today," she thought. Without further reminder, Lulu ran to the bathroom with Happy and did what her mama told her to. After picking her pyjamas and asking her mama to put them on for her, she climbed onto her bed. With a wide smile, she closed her eyes. Magda was puzzled by her behaviour. But she merely smiled, sighed and sat at the dining table. Without much interest, she returned to her sewing. Meanwhile the three butterflies continued to follow her and sometimes one of them would make sounds, as though singing.
In-between she paused with her sewing a few times. The fragrance of jasmine suddenly whisked by across her nose. She didn't know it was the smell of Mikael who was trying to make contact with her ever since. Mikael was passing by, hugging her, jumping in front of her and kissing her gently. Mikael was trying to do everything he could to reach out to her and touch her. Until he was exhausted. He failed miserably. Mikael then sat opposite his mama. He looked for a very long time at the face which he loved and missed so much. He was wondering how he could communicate with his mama. He didn't understand why the same method he used for his sister and his dog, didn't work. He had to make that woman realize that she must continue to live without him.
"Come on, back to the cave. Something is waiting for all of you there," Kerlip suddenly whispered to him. Mikael was shocked to hear that. Then he walked towards Lulu and Happy. Lovingly, he called for Lulu and Happy to join him again. Both of them were actually waiting for that and didn't need a second invitation. Instantly, with Mikael they penetrated into space and time.