This is impossible. He always wins.
I moved my piece on the chessboard, trying to predict his next move. My brow furrows in concentration as I attempt to outmaneuver him, but he remains several steps ahead.
He gave me a gentle smile. "Your move, Niona."
I sighed and moved my piece, feeling as if I'm simply playing into his hands.
"This is so unfair. How does he always know what I'm going to do?" I said under my breath.
He studied the board for a moment, then made his move, effortlessly putting my king in check.
"Checkmate." He said.
I stared at the board in disbelief, feeling a mixture of frustration and admiration for my tutor's skill.
"Again?" Bumagsak ang balikat ko. "How did you do it, nerdy?"
"Years of practice, Niona. You're improving, though. One day, you might even beat me." He said with a chuckle.
Naningkit ang mga mata ko, clearly not convinced.
"I doubt that. You're too good. It's not fair."
He leaned his back on the sofa, a twinkle of amusement in his eyes.
"Life isn't always fair, Niona. But the important thing is to keep trying, keep learning. That's how we improve."
I nodded, reluctantly accepting his wisdom. I resettled the pieces on the board, ready for another round.
"Alright, one more game. But this time, I'm going to win."
Umayos ulit siya ng upo. "I look forward to it."
As we begin the next game, I am determined to finally outsmart my tutor. Though his expertise seems insurmountable, I refused to give up, fueled by my competitive spirit and the hope of one day achieving victory over this nerd.
Madalas na kaming naglalaro ng chess. Pagkatapos niya akong turuan sa mga lesson ko ay chess naman ang ituturo niya sa akin. Actually, hindi naman ako mahilig dito, naituro lang sa akin ni Rinoa noong nakita ko silang naglalaro ni Yena. Hindi ko alam kung bakit, pero nag-eenjoy ako kapag kalaro ko ang nerd na ito. Marahil ay dahil nach-challenge ako sa kaniya.
"Paano ka mananalo roon? E hindi ka nga manalo sa akin" sabi ni Rinoa.
Tinarayan ko siya at sumubo ng lasagna. Hindi rin ako nanalo kagabi kahit ilang ulit pa kami. Kahit yata magdamag kaming maglaro ay paulit-ulit lang akong matatalo.
"Bakit ba ako naririto??" Tanong ko kay Rinoa nang makapasok kami sa gate nila.
"Kailangan naming mag-practice ng kanta, at dahil kasama ang tutor mo, narito ka. Hindi ka naman papayag na ma-cancel ang session without any reason, right?"
She's right.
"At dito kami mag-aaral ganoon?"
Tumango siya at ngumiti. "Hmm-mm, para makasabit kami ni Yena ng lesson"
"Whatever"
Binati ako ni tita Cerise pagkapasok sa mansion nila. A large and beautiful chandelier welcomed us. The chandelier hanging from the ceiling was a sight to behold. It was big and round, with lots of shiny pieces hanging from it. The pieces sparkled in the light, making little rainbows on the walls and floor. The chandelier itself was a mix of shiny gold and crystal-clear glass. The gold parts were bright and golden, like the sun, while the glass parts were clear and sparkly, like diamonds. It looked like something you'd see in a palace in a fairy tale, magical and beautiful. And when you looked up at it, it seemed to fill the whole room with its brightness and sparkle. It was the kind of thing that made you stop and stare, feeling amazed at how something so simple could be so stunning.
The furniture in the mansion was elegant and fancy, just like everything else. There were big, plush sofas and chairs with soft cushions that you sank into when you sat down. They were covered in rich fabrics like velvet and satin, in colors like deep red, royal blue, and golden yellow. The tables were made of dark, polished wood, with intricate carvings along the edges that showed off the craftsmanship.
As for the paintings, they were huge and hung on the walls like windows into another world. Some showed beautiful landscapes with mountains and rivers, while others depicted people in fancy clothes from long ago. The colors were rich and vibrant, making the scenes come to life right before my eyes. It felt like I could step right into the paintings and be a part of the world they showed.
The design of the mansion itself was grand and majestic. The ceilings were high, almost like they reached up to the sky, and there were big, arched doorways that led from room to room. The walls were adorned with fancy moldings and intricate patterns, and there were big windows that let in lots of light. Everywhere I looked, there was something beautiful to see, from the marble floors to the crystal chandeliers hanging from the ceilings. It was like walking through a palace from a fairy tale, with magic around every corner.
"Hi, girl. It's nice to see you two here," sabi ni Tita Cerise at hinalikan kami ni Ariena sa pisngi.
"Hello po, Tita" sabi namin ni Yena.
"Sa music room tayo" sabi ni Rinoa. Tumango kami sa kaniya at sumunod sa itaas.
"Rin, hindi ba kayo kakain muna?" Tanong ni tita sa kalagitnaan ng paglalakad namin paakyat.
"Pakidala na lang mommy" sabot ni Rinoa.
As we entered Rinoa's music room, I was amazed by its vastness. It was big, with walls that seemed to stretch out forever, covered in shelves filled with all sorts of musical instruments. There were guitars, pianos, violins, and even some instruments I'd never seen before, like a shiny brass trumpet and a small, delicate harp.
The room was filled with the sound of music, with different melodies blending together to create a beautiful harmony. It was like being surrounded by a symphony, with each instrument adding its own unique voice to the song.
In the center of the room, there was a big grand piano, its shiny black surface reflecting the light from the chandelier above. It looked like something out of a fancy concert hall, and I couldn't help but feel a sense of awe as I looked at it.
The walls were lined with paintings of famous musicians and composers, their faces looking down at us as if they were watching over the room. There were also posters of concerts and musicals, adding to the feeling that we were in a place where music was truly appreciated and celebrated.
The windows were big and let in lots of light, making the room feel bright and airy. There were curtains made of sheer fabric that fluttered in the breeze, adding to the magical feeling of the room.
Overall, the music room was a place of beauty and inspiration, where the love of music filled every corner and brought joy to all who entered. It was a reminder of the power of music to lift our spirits and touch our souls, and I felt grateful to be able to experience it firsthand.
"So beautiful," bigla kong sambit na ikinatingin nilang dalawa. I cleared my throat and looked at Rinoa. "Ngayon ko lang nakita 'to"
"Syempre, ngayon ka lang nakapasok dito" sagot niya at dumiretso sa piano niya.
Ariena went to a corner while I walked towards the paintings. I touched each one.
"Ikaw ang nagpalagay nito?" I asked Rinoa as I continued to gaze at the paintings.
"Yeah" rinig kong sagot niya sa gitna ng pagp-piano.
The first painting depicted Ludwig van Beethoven, recognizable by his intense expression and wild hair. He sat at a piano, his hands poised over the keys as if about to play a powerful melody.
The second painting showed Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, depicted as a young man with a playful smile. He held a violin in one hand and a quill pen in the other, symbolizing his dual talents as both a composer and a virtuoso performer.
The third painting featured Johann Sebastian Bach portrayed with a stern expression and a determined gaze. He held a sheet of music in one hand, his other hand resting on the keys of an organ, showcasing his mastery of the baroque style.
The fourth painting depicted Frédéric Chopin, shown with a thoughtful expression as he sat at a piano. His fingers hovered over the keys, poised to create the delicate and emotive melodies for which he was known.
The fifth painting showed Ludwig van Beethoven again, this time in a later stage of his life. He was depicted with a more weathered appearance, but his eyes still held a fierce determination as he continued to compose music despite his deafness.
"Kilala mo sila?"
"Yeah" sagot ko at tumingin sa kaniya. "Nakita ko sila s music museum"
Each painting captured the essence of these legendary musicians and composers, immortalizing their contributions to the world of music. They served as a reminder of the beauty and power of music to transcend time and touch the hearts of people across generations.
Nakarinig kami ng katok kaya napatingin kami sa pinto. It was Tita Cerise. May hawak siyang tray ng pagkain na may lamang sandwich, bread rolls, apples, and juices. Inilapag niya iyon sa lamesang nasa gilid.
"May mga bisita ka sa ibaba, pinakain ko muna sila" sabi ni Tita kay Rinoa.
"Okay, Mom, pakisabi umakyat na lang sila rito after," malambot niyang sagot sa ina.
Nagpalipat-lipat ang tingin ko sa kanilang dalawa. Such a lovely mother and daughter.
Maya-maya ay bumukas ang pinto at pumasok ang mga member ni Rinoa. Bakas sa mga mukha nila ang pagkamangha nang makita ang kabuoan ng music room ni Rin.
"Hey, nabusog ba kayo?" Walang halong katarayan na tanong ni Rinoa.
Nahihiya namang tumango ang mga ito. Napatingin ako sa lalaking nasa gilid ni Kent. Nahuli kong nakatingin din siya sa akin. Umiwas siya agad ng tingin nang magtama ang aming mga mata.
In the heart of Rinoa's music room, the air was filled with anticipation as her ensemble gathered for rehearsal. Rinoa, their passionate and talented leader, stood at the front, her presence commanding attention as she prepared to guide them through their performance.
"Alright, everyone, let's focus. We're entering the middle of the piece, and timing is crucial. Remember, we want to seamlessly blend in with the melody already playing." Rinoa said, addressing the group.
The members of the ensemble nodded in understanding, their expressions serious as they prepared to follow Rinoa's instructions.
"Strings, you'll lead the entrance with a soft crescendo, building anticipation as you join the melody. Woodwinds, follow closely behind, adding depth and richness to the sound. Brass, you'll come in last, with a bold and confident entrance that elevates the entire ensemble." She said while gesturing to different sections.
The musicians listened intently, absorbing Rinoa's guidance as they mentally prepared for their part in the performance.
"Remember, timing is everything. Let the music guide you, and trust in your abilities. Together, we'll create something truly magical."
With a nod from Rinoa, the ensemble took their positions, their instruments poised and ready. As the music began to play, Rinoa conducted with precision, her movements guiding the ensemble through the intricate melody.
As their cue approached, the musicians focused intently, their concentration unwavering as they prepared to enter at just the right moment. With a subtle nod from Rinoa, they began to play, each instrument blending seamlessly with the music already in progress.
As the ensemble played on, each member fully immersed in the harmonious melody, there was a sudden discordant note that cut through the air like a sharp blade. Rinoa's brow furrowed in concern as she quickly identified the source of the disruption.
"Stop!" Rinoa said, calling out.
The music halted abruptly, leaving a palpable silence in its wake. All eyes turned to the member who had entered in the wrong part, their expression a mix of embarrassment and regret.
"Let's try that again, from the top. Remember your cues, everyone." She said firmly but gently.
With a nod from Rinoa, the ensemble prepared to restart the piece, their focus renewed and determination etched on their faces. As the music began to play once more, each member concentrated intensely, their minds laser-focused on executing their parts flawlessly.
As the ensemble regained their momentum, the anticipation hung thick in the air, each member focused on their part with renewed determination. But just as the music swelled to its crescendo, a jarring note pierced through the harmony, causing a ripple of discomfort among the performers.
Rinoa's brow furrowed as she identified the source of the discord, her heart sinking with disappointment. She turned her gaze towards the vocalist, a pang of concern evident in her eyes. Dalawa ang vocalist nila. Si kent yung isa habang ang ang isang lalaki naman ay hindi ko kilala.
"Hold, please." Calmly but firmly.
The music halted once more, leaving a hollow silence in its wake. The vocalist shifted uncomfortably under Rinoa's gaze, a flush of embarrassment staining his cheeks.
"Take a moment, breathe. Let's try it again." She said with empathy.
With a reassuring nod from Rinoa, the vocalist gathered their composure, determined to rectify their mistake. As the music resumed, he braced the himself, his voice trembling with uncertainty.
But as the crucial moment arrived, the note faltered once more, failing to reach the desired pitch. The disappointment hung heavy in the room, the ensemble's unity momentarily fractured by the imperfection.
"Again, from the top. Focus on your breathing, on the melody. You can do this." Rinoa said, gentle but resolute.
With a shared sense of determination, the ensemble rallied around their struggling member, offering silent encouragement and support. As the music began anew, the vocalist closed their eyes, channeling their inner strength and resolve.
And this time, as they approached the challenging note, something shifted. With a surge of determination, the vocalist unleashed their voice, hitting the pitch with unwavering precision. The sound reverberated through the room, filling it with a sense of triumph and redemption.
Hindi ko alam na may ganitong side pala si Rinoa. Kami ni Yena ay nakaupo lang sa isang tabi at tahimik na nakikinig sa kanila. Paminsan-minsan ay napapasabay ako sa kanta nila. Si Yena ay gumagalaw ang ulo at paa, sinasabayan ang music.
Nang matapos sila ay nagkaniya-kaniya sila ng ligpit ng mga ginamit. Lalapit na sana sa akin si nerdy ngunit pinanlakinan ko siya ng mata at umiling para patigilin. Huminto naman siya. Nakatingin sa kaniya ang ibang members kaya baka kung anong isipin nila kapag lumapit ito sa akin.
Pagkatapos ay doon na kami nag-aral. Nakisali na rin sina Rinoa at Yena. Minsan ay hanga ako sa isang 'to. Dahil bukod sa nagtatrabaho siya sa restaurant, nagtuturo rin siya sa akin habang pinagsasabay ang pag-aaral at pagp-practice sa music club.
Lumipas ang ilang araw na ganoon ang routine namin. Minsan ay sa penthouse, minsan sa bahay nina Rinoa. Kapag sa mansion kami ni Rinoa ay nawawalan kami ng time para maglaro ng chess dahil nagugugol niya ang oras sa pagtuturo sa dalawa after niya akong turuan. Sa penthouse ko lang kami nakakapaglaro.
Kung dati ay mabilis lang matapos ang laro namin dahil lagi niya akong nac-checkmate, ngayon ay hindi na. Tumatagal na ito ng dalawang oras dahil nakakapag-isip na ako ng strategies kung paano makalusot at makakain ng piece niya. Nagkaroon din ako ng idea dahil nanonood ako sa Youtube. Tinuturuan pa rin niya ako kapag namamali ako ng move dahil nalilito ako sa knight, minsan kasi ay lima ang natatalunan ko imbes na apat lang.
"I'm going to beat you today" sabi ko nang matalo na naman niya ako.
Ngumiti lang siya at tumango.
As the game progresses, I studied the board with intense focus, my mind racing to anticipate his next move. I made my moves more thoughtfully this time, trying to break his pattern, but he continued to demonstrate his superior skill.
Nagfocus ako sa lahat ng pwede niyang makain.
I have to think differently. I can't keep playing into his strategy.
I moved my knight, attempting a different approach, hoping to catch him off guard.
He stared at it, studying the board "Nice move, Niona."
He carefully considered his options before countering with a move that surprised me.
I shook my head. "I won't give up. I can do this." Bulong ko sa sarili.
With renewed determination, I focused on the game, my competitive spirit ignited.
Tumango-tango siya habang nakatingin sa mga piece "You're doing well, Niona. Keep it up."
My heart raced as I saw a potential move that could lead my to victory. I hesitated, contemplating the risk, but decided to take the chance.
"Check." I said, confidently.
His eyes widen in surprise as he reevaluates the board.
"Woah, you've got me in a bit of a bind." He said, looking impressed.
I can hardly contain her excitement. I can see the possibility of victory within reach.
"I told you, nerdy. I'm going to win this time." I said while grinning.
He nodded, acknowledging my skill and determination.
"Indeed, you might just do it."
As the game progresses, I continued to apply my newfound strategy, each move calculated and deliberate. Nerdy, although challenged, continued to play with his usual expertise, making me work hard for every advancement.
Finally, after a series of intense moves, I found myself in a winning position.
"Checkmate!" I exclaimed triumphantly. Pumalakpak pa ako sa tuwa.
He looked at the board, impressed and genuinely happy for his student. Me.
"Well done, Niona. You did it." He said while smiling at me.
My face lightened up with joy and pride. For the first time, I have defeated my unbeatable tutor.
"Yes, Nerdy! I finally did it!" I said, beaming.
He smiled warmly.
"You've worked hard for this, Niona. Remember, in chess, as in life, persistence and determination are key. I'm proud of you."
Nawala ang ngiti ko sa huling sinabi niya.
"I'm proud of you."
That was the first time. I finally heard those words to me for the very first time...from someone, with sincerity. For the first time in my life. Ngayon ko lang narinig ang mga salitang 'yan para sa akin.
Napansin niya yata na natahimik ako kaya agad siyang naalarma.
"Bakit? May nasabi ba akong hindi maganda?"
Umiling ako at maliit na ngumiti.