Amala's Heritage

The Architect

A thousand years have passed. It was the year 3510 IE(Iris Era). Salama, a 28-year-old architect, woke up to the gentle morning light filtering through her apartment window. Her cozy 50-square-meter apartment was filled with the aroma of freshly brewed coffee. She couldn't help but notice a beautiful leaf with distinctive yellow spots swaying outside her window. Inspired by its unique pattern, she captured intricate details in her sketchpad. Sitting on the window sill with a steaming cup of coffee, Salama meticulously sketched the leaf, paying close attention to every delicate vein and yellow speck. The rhythmic sound of her pencil gliding across the paper was soothing, and she felt a sense of peace and contentment.

The Kitchen was a narrow space that could fit only one person at a time. She decided to make breakfast and clicked on the sidewall, revealing a hidden table. She pulled it out and converted her office chair into a dining chair to enjoy her breakfast. After satisfying her hunger with a simple click, the table disappeared. 

She received a notification on her phone at 10:30 am, reminding her to collect her marathon bib. Salama carefully unhooked her bicycle from the wall and pedalled to the marathon's expo area. The atmosphere was buzzing with excitement as people from all corners of the country gathered to participate in the event.As she joined the line to collect her bib, the staff member asked for her application number and ID. After verifying her details, the staff member handed her the race bib. "Here is your bib, Salama," the staff member said with a smile. "The marathon will start at 7 am, so please make sure to arrive at least half an hour before the start to prepare and warm up."

Salama had dedicated countless hours to rigorous training for the upcoming 10k marathon. Throughout her demanding regimen, her supportive colleagues, Andrea and Kainoa, who, along with her, were Architects at Ling Architecture Design Company, were a constant and unwavering presence. Their guidance and encouragement became integral to Salama's journey as she pursued her marathon goal.

The morning of the marathon was filled with a palpable sense of excitement and anticipation. The streets were abuzz with energy as participants and spectators gathered to witness the event. Andrea and Kainoa found themselves navigating through the blocked roads, eventually parking their car 3 kilometres from the starting line to avoid the congested traffic. Eager not to miss the commencement of the marathon, they briskly made their way toward the starting point, infusing their walk with interspersed jogging moments. 

As they arrived, they spotted their friend Salama amid her warm-up routine, preparing herself for the upcoming race. Andrea and Kainoa stood alongside her, offering words of support and encouragement, their eyes filled with admiration for Salama's dedication and progress through her rigorous training. The atmosphere was charged with a palpable sense of camaraderie and excitement as the trio joined the throngs of other participants, all eagerly awaiting the official start of the marathon.

As the timer sounded, Salama was surrounded by a bustling sea of determined individuals, each powering toward the much-anticipated finish line. The course snaked through the city's heart, treating the runners to breathtaking views of some of its most revered landmarks. Salama dashed past the formidable government building, its imposing facade reaching skyward and a seemingly endless cascade of steps leading to its entrance. She then navigated through a fragrant rose garden, each delicate blossom adding a sweet perfume. As she pressed on, the grand library loomed into sight, a magnificent structure steeped in history and knowledge. Along the route, an army of dedicated volunteers stood at the ready, proffering water and exuberant cheers to bolster the runners' spirits as they pressed on through the race.

Andrea and Kainoa anxiously approached the finish point, eager to see Salama cross the finish line. As they reached the designated spot, they skillfully eased to a stop and gently unfastened a brilliantly designed banner. The banner was adorned with a poignant message about the importance of mental health awareness, a cause that held deep significance for all three of them. With a graceful, synchronized movement, they unfurled the banner, allowing its vibrant colours to catch the eyes of the nearby onlookers, drawing attention to the important message it conveyed.

As Salama approached the race's final stretch, her legs were aching with fatigue, but she summoned all her strength and pushed forward with unwavering determination. With the finish line now in view, the crowd's roaring cheers propelled her forward, igniting a burst of energy within her. As she finally crossed the finish line, her lungs gasping for air and her body drenched in sweat, an overwhelming wave of joy engulfed her. The crowd's exuberant cheers filled the air as she and her fellow runners exchanged congratulatory words, revelling in the exhilaration of a well-fought race. Salama had achieved an impressive second place, completing the race in 34 minutes and 3 seconds. "You won't believe it, everyone! I've surpassed my personal best time!" she exclaimed, her eyes shining with joy and boundless enthusiasm.