The Land In Between

C H A P T E R 3 7

-Back to present-

Disturbing the dead was often considered to be one of the most grave offenses one could commit. Souls have lived their life and no longer need attachment to the mortal world. And yet sometimes, they feel, even after their death, that they have unfinished business in the mortal world. But they are intangible, untouchable. Sometimes not even considered real, with how light of a presence they seem to be.

Amihan has never felt any soul as heavy as this.

Whether it be due to the dark forces that Alab once used in life, or the regrets that follow even up to death, the bright ball of light carried the weights that even his new spiritual prowess couldn't see. He asks, "Why– Why tell us this? To pity him?" Amihan couldn't help the bite in his tone. And he understood why Alab had told them of his past, of Agapito. Of... 'I knew what this Agapito became, but he has no excuse. I don't care about who he was, not after everything he has done.' The soul does not waver.

No, Amihan... I want to stop him.

That surprises everyone, and Banawag asks with a hint of hysteria, "You do realize what you're asking for, right?! He's– Aga– Magat is going to die! If you haven't noticed, we're all hellbent on making sure of that!"

Amihan takes a sharp inhale, hating the connection that has formed in front of them without being said. It wasn't difficult to form it in the first place, but it was another thing entirely to trace it all back to this. It was tragic, and a tale that would never be known to one.

Agapito was everything Magat could no longer be.

I know. Alab floats, flitters about before moving towards Likha, face still with a crack, and eyes closed shut. The soul flounders for a bit before adding, My Agapito is gone. The Agapito I knew was irritable, but not inhumane...I started this... and I will stop him before he ruins himself beyond repair.

"In case you haven't noticed, soul," Hiwaga cooly addresses Alab, "he already ruined himself beyond repair." Alab flickers, as if flinching from the remark. I am aware... But you can use me...as the soul sacrifice... If in that way, I could stop him, then it's forever worth it. Amihan's throat bobs, "You understand the implications? This means he will never find you. Your soul would be gone forever. This is a gamble all on its own!"

For a moment, Amihan could feel Alab's warmth. It is kind, noble in a way that Amihan has never felt. I know. Alab repeats. I don't mind. I want to help him free himself of me.

Amihan hears someone grit their teeth, and he doesn't need to turn his head to know it's Banawag. Alab continues, Please let me do this.

It is almost cruel that Amihan does understand. He clutches at Banawag's hand, and knows that if it were them, Amihan would've begged to do the same. He solemnly remarks, 'I already have.' Amihan is the last person to judge.

"...We accept...Now, tell us everything you may know about Manisilat."

***

The one thing Amihan notices while doing a Summoning now was that his spiritual space now flitted around with little maya birds, all bright and glowing. They titter to the side, some even flying close enough for Amihan to feel one's tiny feet standing on his finger. He peeks through one eye but he can almost feel Hiwaga reprimanding him, 'Focus, Amihan.'

He mumbles "Sorry" as if Hiwaga was there herself. To which, the tiny bird flies away to join the rest of the spirits that took care of Amihan's space. He focuses on himself and everything around him, making himself reach beyond into the spiritual world. He opens his eyes, a stark bright white shining in the dark cave. "Manisilat the Infidelity, I call upon you."