The Moonlight Assassin

Finding the Child

Lola Esperanza continues the story of the downfall of the Hacienda del Fierro with Miguel, and his parents Cristobal and Lorena. "As the ruins began to crumble," she said, "Cristobal and Lorena, together with their remaining army, rushed into the once-opulent mansion. As they roam around, they found unscathed cabinets and chests full of precious objects: pieces of gold, gold jewelry, precious stones, every valuable metal and gem they can find. They also found luxurious clothes that were beautiful and delicate, food and drinks that these poor folks can only imagine consuming, and grandiose paintings that feasted their eyes in awe."

Miguel interrupted, "But Tatay and Nanay, how did you find me?"

Cristobal took a deep breath, his eyes reflecting the memories of that fateful night. "Miguel, we found you in the bedroom of Salvador and Ariana. Amidst the chaos and destruction, there was an untouched crib, almost like a haven within the madness. And there, you lay, a beautiful baby with dark black eyes that seemed to hold a universe of mysteries, hair as black as coal, and skin as fair as porcelain."

Lorena continued, her voice softening as she recalled the details, "You were peaceful, Miguel, unaware of the turmoil surrounding you. What struck us the most was a birthmark on your right chest, shaped like a thunderbolt. It was as if a mark of destiny had been bestowed upon you."

Cristobal nodded, adding, "We knew, even then, that you were special, Miguel. We couldn't leave you there amidst the wreckage, not after what your parents had done. So, we made a pact to protect you, raise you as our own, and shield you from the darkness that tainted your bloodline."

Miguel's eyes widened with a mix of astonishment and realization. He remembered how Don Salvador pointed out the birthmark on his chest when they met in a confrontation a few years ago. In desperation for answers, he took his shirt off, revealing his lean upper body and the birthmark on his chest.

Miguel cried, "I had no idea, Tatay, Nanay. I always felt different, but I never knew the extent of it. How am I more intelligent than most people? How am I stronger than the strongest boys in this town? How come many girls are attracted to me? Is it because of this?" He pointed to the strange birthmark - it was shaped like a thunderbolt that ran from his shoulder down to where the heart lies above.

Lorena placed a comforting hand on Miguel's shoulder, "It's time you know the truth, son. The mark on your chest connects you to a legacy of both darkness and light. But your choices will determine the path you take."

Cristobal continued, "The thunderbolt birthmark signifies a power within you, Miguel. It's a symbol that destiny has intertwined with your existence. We found you, not just as a survivor of a tragedy, but as a beacon of hope amid despair. And because we believe we were guided by the Archangel Michael, we named you after him: Miguel."

Miguel absorbed the revelation, the weight of his origins settling upon him. "What about the rest of the family? What happened to Don Salvador, Doña Ariana, and the others?"

Lola Esperanza interjected, "That, my dear, is a tale for another time. The history of Hacienda del Fierro is woven with threads of both malevolence and redemption. But for now, you must focus on the present and the challenges that lie ahead. Your fate is intertwined with the mysteries of this town, and it's time to confront the legacy that runs in your veins."

As the moon cast its ethereal glow upon the village outside the ruins of Hacienda del Fierro, the intricate tapestry of Miguel's life continued to unravel, revealing the secrets and truths that would shape his destiny.

Meanwhile, Tabby stayed in the quaint hut of the Mangubat family. She just washed the dishes from the dinner earlier, when she suddenly heard strange noises from the outside.