A Paradise Lost

Queen Raya's Day

November 4, 1521

“Where do you want to go next?” Captain Igor asked.

“I wanted to go back to Maharlika.”

“Great! So much for our adventures, we also miss our family and friends.”

“Where are the rest of the warriors?”

“Some of them went aboard our ships early this morning to make sure that all our goods are still intact.”

“Oh, I see. I thought they found a Chinese lover and decided to runaway.”

“Hahaha! If they’ve found a lover, they would surely bring it home in Maharlika rather than staying here.

“Why is it so dark inside the ship? Are they too tired to light the ship?”

“Surprise!” The warriors surprised their beloved queen. They lit the ship using oil lamps. They sang happy birthday to her. She cried from happiness.

Meanwhile in the land of Maharlika, Bayani burned a gold of incense and prayed to Yahweh.

“My son, what did you pray for?” Kaalam asked him after he prayed and offered his burnt gold incense.

“I prayed that Queen Raya will find favor from Yahweh. I also prayed that fair winds will bring her back safely to us as soon as possible. The throne feels so empty without her. She gives life to the kingdom. I wish she’s here right now for her birthday. God, I miss her.”

“Who doesn’t miss our beloved queen? Don’t worry, Yahweh will deliver her safely back to us.”

“Amen.”

Bayani married Moonlight a week before her Majesty’s birthday. He wanted her to bless his wedding but he could no longer wait for her return. Life was short. He wanted to spend the rest of his life with her.

Queen Raya was so happy celebrating her birthday. It was the first time that her people threw a birthday surprise for her.

“Thank you for all your efforts. This is one of the best birthday party I ever have.”

“Actually, it was Felipe’s idea to surprise you in your birthday.” Captain Igor said.

“Thank you.” Queen Raya said tearfully.

They sang birthday song for her. They ate and chatted merrily.

“My queen.” Felipe bowed to his Queen.

“Yes?”

“I would like to give you a gift to thank you for saving my life. I know it’s nothing compared to the gold and diamonds you have.” Felipe handed an oblong-shaped mirror with a handle bedecked with intricate design to his majesty.

Queen Raya looked at her reflection in the mirror. As she looked at her travel-worn self, she felt like she was reading a tale as old as time as she recounted all her travel adventures.

“Thank you. This is the most beautiful gift I received so far.”

“You’re welcome! I’m glad you love it. I wanted to give you that gift so that I will not be the only one who will see your beautiful face but you as well.

They celebrated Queen Raya’s birthday with merriment. They cherished every moment. They were glad that they were still alive after all they’ve been through. They couldn’t wait to arrived home so that they could narrate their stories of adventures to their families and friends.

The people in Camotes Island, Cebu were also excited to see their families and friends who went with Queen Raya. They couldn’t wait to hear their tales of adventures. They hoped and prayed that they would come back safely into their arms.