✓ | The Assailant's Affection (Fate's Transgression Series, #5)

TAA 32: Southeast

CHAPTER 32: SOUTHEAST

FABBY | FABIENNE

The fourth trial, testing my sense of touch, proves to be a challenging endeavor. It not only consumes a considerable amount of time but also takes a toll on my overall well-being. Instead of fostering a calm environment for thoughtful planning, it leaves me feeling aggravated. I'm eager to conclude this trial, yet I find myself questioning the purpose behind this thorough examination.

Sa gitna ng pang-aabala ng pagsusuri, naiisip ko kung may kahalagahan ba talaga itong ginagawa ko. Ngunit sa kabila ng pagod, nagtitiwala ako na may dahilan ang mga pagsubok na ito. I needed this trial to ascend as the ruler of Emerald Forest, hindi ako dapat sumuko.

Even if I am baffled with such purpose and the toll of mt emotions, I must endure, I must surpass this tribulation. Hindi ko man maintindihan kung bakit kailangan ako, pero tinatak ko sa aking isipin na masasagot ang tanong na ito kapag nagwagi ako.

My thoughts were interrupted by the sudden appearance of an ethereal figure. A goddess with flowing robes and eyes that held both wisdom and curiosity. Her presence instantly commanded respect, and I felt a mixture of awe and trepidation.

Subalit, bukod roon ay naiinis rin ako sa kanya. Kung hindi ko ito kilala, malamang humahanga ako sa taglay nitong kagandahan at kapangyarihan, subalit, ang dakilang dyosa ng kapalaran ay isang dahas na nilalang.

"You keep on questioning the purpose of these trials," she said, her voice stiff. "These challenges are meant to unlock the dormant powers within you, to prepare you for the responsibilities that await. Instead of questioning my methods, you keep on scrutinizing me!"

Napaisimid ako. "Ano gusto mong gawin ko? Keep myself smiling every time you weild such a strong force that always breaks my bones?!" asik ko sa kanya. Walang palya niya akong inaatake ng dahas at walang kahit anong awa ang lumalatay sa mga mata nito.

"You still don't get the purpose of this trial," Fate said. There was a hint of disappointment playing in her voice. Her feet almost touched the ground, and she floats elegantly- likea leaf on the water. "You surpassed three trials in a short time, but this one has been going on for nine months, yet you still didn't realize what you lack!"

Ah, right. I have been staying in Emerald Forest for a while now. One thing is sure though, the time here moves so fast that all living here don't even realize it. They have a short days, but longer nights. Sinabi sa akin ni Lu-Lin na iba-iba ang oras at panahon ng bawat realm.

"Why don't you tell me so we'll get this done?" I said sarcastically, although it will never be that easy for her to answer my question. Kahit kailan, wala siyang sinasabi tungkol sa mga pagsusuri, bigla-bigla niya lang akong dinadala sa kung saan-saan.

Nang mapagtanto kong kahit pa galit na galit ako sa kanya, kailangan kong sundin ang utos nito. I reluctantly continued with the trial. My frustration fueled my attacks, but Fate of Esher effortlessly evaded each one.

"Enough!" she calmly uttered, her eyes carrying a depth of understanding. "Hindi ito labanan ng galit, kundi pag-unlad ng iyong kakayahan. Kailan ka ba matututo na huwag isipin kung ano problema, kundi pakiramdam ito?"

Though I resented her, the wisdom in her words resonated within me. Parang lupa na unti-unting humihiwalay sa alon ang galit sa puso ko. I stopped my movements and catch my breath, trying to fill my lungs as much as it needs. Fate of Esher wanted me to do something, and I somehow realized it.

Bawat galaw niya ay parang sayaw na nagdudulot ng komplikadong ritmo sa paligid. Sa bawat pagtakbo ko, mabilis na umiiwas si Fate, nagdudulot ng hindi pagkakasundo sa akin. Sa likod ng bawat pag-ikot ng oras, nadarama ko ang pangangailangan na ipakita ang aking sarili na kayang malampasan ang pagsusuri na ito.