Chapter 3 - Mikael The Last Hug ( Chapter 7-9 )

CHAPTER 7

Lulu was so excited to be exploring with her brother again. She was no longer afraid of flying. She would be screaming with joy when they swooped through the very cold white clouds. The sun was shining brightly but not blazing hot. They saw valleys with hills of golden colour, and trees growing densely and beautifully in their specific spots. When they passed a river with fish jumping in and out of the clear water, Lulu screamed that she wanted to play in the river. But her brother shook his head and then flew even faster so that they could reach their destination quickly.

On nearing the cave, Lulu was feeling nervous again as she remembered what had happened before. She hid behind her brother's back. The moment they were near the two trees, one of them from its mouth spat hot air and tiny leaves onto Lulu's face. Those leaves flying around Lulu's face gave off a wonderful fragrance. Lulu was fascinated and very pleased with the perfume. She smiled, and then tried to pick a leaf fluttering around her face and head. It circled even faster when Lulu tried to catch it. When she jumped higher, that leaf also circled faster and higher. Mikael smiled on seeing Lulu's reactions. "Lulu, dear. You're not allowed to pick the leaves. But you can enjoy and smell their fragrance, and let the leaves be free!" Mikael said.

Lulu continued jumping. She was still trying to grab it. Finally, with one deep breath, those small, fragrant leaves were sucked into the mouth of the tree. Lulu was fascinated by what she saw. Happy was barking and running towards the trees. She was trying to find out where those tiny leaves went. Mikael was laughing happily watching the two of them. Then he hurried into the cave. "Come on, go in. Quick, we don't have much time. Lulu, we must return to the first place!" Mikael said. Suddenly, they were in a room full of books. It remained as it was. Mikael ran to the table, took the book and started to turn its pages. He could easily turn the first page. When he tried to turn the next page, a clear ball with that small golden wand was suddenly circling around and beaming lights from it. Mikael and Lulu were impressed. Silently they waited, wondering "What's next?"

However, nothing happened. After a few seconds, Mikael sighed with relief. He began to see the pieces of a puzzle in page two. This time the pieces were very big and very easy to arrange. Mikael gave Lulu the chance to solve it herself. It was a picture of a chicken. "Lulu, time to learn how to arrange. It's very easy. Did you pay attention to the picture you saw the first time?

Lulu was quiet, her hands playing with the pieces. "Chicken?"

"Yep, you're right, honey. A chicken. Now try to match which piece is suitable for this shape of the picture, so that you finally have a picture of a chicken." Lulu tried to match the pieces. She managed in some cases, but failed a few times. However, she never gave up. Happy was also helping her. When she saw a piece, she would move it and others with her nose. Mikael patiently observed them. Suddenly, a light shone in front of them and wove together what Lulu and Happy had arranged into a single picture. The whole picture was very beautiful. A picture of a big chicken with a few chicks eating in a forest which Mikael had never been to before.

This forest was different. It looked like a bamboo forest. All green, arranged neatly around the chickens. There was a big chicken, which seemed to be the mother hen and was sick. Because she had lost one of her legs. "I think we should help that big chicken, Lulu. That is our responsibility now. "Come on, let's go!"

When they wanted to close the book, page two suddenly lifted itself. They were stunned. Looking at each other. Barely recovered from their shock, that page suddenly with a 'plank' sound turned over by itself. In front of them was another picture again. Mikael was puzzled. He understood that he should finish one page first before he can turn to the next page. "Why is the third page flipping up to open?" Mikael was asking himself.

The pieces of picture on the third page were like those of the second page - very few pieces - and easy. Lulu and Happy were very keen to work on it, and were successful. A few seconds later, a light came out to weave together the picture arranged by Lulu and Happy. "Tatat! A rabbit!" Lulu said with her head down looking happily at her brother. "Yes, yes, yes! We did it, Happy!" Lulu said and waving her hands in the air, very satisfied and confident in her ability to arrange the picture of a rabbit. 

Mikael remained silent and tried to understand the series of pictures in front of him. There was a very big white rabbit with four kits or baby rabbits. They had their own burrow hidden behind the broken tree trunk. This background in the picture was really beautiful. It was a forest with plenty of tall trees shooting upwards into space. Mikael was confused looking at that picture. "What is it with that rabbit?" he began pondering again. Meanwhile Mikael was busy with his own thoughts while Lulu's hand was playing with that third page. Suddenly, the third page lifted itself and, without realizing it, Lulu had turned to the fourth page!

A few pieces of the picture fell. Happy bit on them and passed them to Mikael. Mikael became more confused. He glanced at the pieces of the picture. "What's that animal?" he wondered. It had a very long tail. Lulu and Happy were busily arranging the pieces one by one. They didn't seem to care about the meaning behind them. They only liked to fit the puzzles! Lulu asked for the pieces in Mikael's hand. She and Happy were almost finished except for those in Mikael's hand.

When Lulu put the piece in the exact position, a bright light appeared again to glue the pieces into a perfect whole picture. "Tatat, what's this animal?" Lulu asked while scratching her head.

"It's a squirrel, my sister!" Mikael answered when he saw the picture with a lot of squirrels running on a tree top. The shape of the tree was similar to the tree where the rabbits were living under its shade. Mikael was becoming more confused. But he didn't want the pages in the book to open by themselves, one by one, before he was finished with solving the problem for each part. He didn't want to be bothered looking for directions to the places of the chicken, rabbit and squirrel. It wouldn't be easy. He sighed. "Lulu, it's better we close the book now. So that we go straight to our destination. So, how many animals do we have to meet today?" Mikael laughingly asked. He tried to hide his worries by laughing with his sister. He didn't want his sister to know what was bothering him in his heart.

"There's chicken, rabbit and squirrel, Tatat," Lulu said and counted with her fingers.

"Wow, a very extraordinary assignment!" Mikael shouted while scratching his hair. He was truly confused - where to go, which direction to fly, how to meet all those animals? They walked past the cave. More and more bats were flying over their heads. The bats were of many different sizes. Some were really big and some really small. The small ones were golden in colour with black spots. The big ones were black with golden spots. Lulu was quiet looking at a small bat. She wanted so much to hold it. But Mikael prevented it by pulling Lulu's hand so that they reach the cave's door quickly. They managed to come out from the cave.

"Your assignment is just that. Jobs which you can see on the surface. You must also be able to see what's the purpose behind or underlying those assignments, from the outside. Do you get it?" Kerlip whispered. Mikael could only nod in resignation. He looked at his sister who was watching the two guard trees. 

One of the trees looked at Mikael with sympathy. Suddenly it spoke with its cute round mouth. "Hi, you, Young Boy, why must you always be so worried? Trust in the forces of Nature. Leave it to Nature. Nature will always protect you. Ask Nature to guide you in the tasks that you must do. Remember, never feel obligated because all these are related to your final journey to heaven." Mikael looked in amazement at the tree. This was the first time after passing by them several times, that he heard it speaking - raspy and heavy like a big man without teeth in its mouth. Only small sharp branches that looked like human teeth. No tongue of a human. Only a long green string of leaves. 

Mikael smiled. "Wow, this is the first time I hear you speak, Tree. Thank you for your advice," Mikael said. Lulu waved her hand in the direction of the trees as her brother was getting ready to carry her during their return flight.

CHAPTER 8

 "Tiuung, tiuuung!" Lulu kept uttering that sound - of her imagination and creation. Mikael laughed heartily. They were flying over a valley and through lots of thick white clouds. Mikael was flying them up and down, swooping quickly and then shooting up again. It felt like they were on a roller coaster! This time Mikael was hopeful yet anxious. Actually, he didn't know where the chicken, rabbit and squirrel were. But he knew that Kerlip would guide him. During the journey he kept remembering that piece of advice given by that tree. He kept reminding himself to believe in himself and to trust in Nature. His eyes observed the scene below him. The panorama remained as it was: valleys, hills, river – such a wonderful peaceful sight!

Then they passed very high mountains, and waterfalls as before. Suddenly Mikael sharply swerved his body, dropped to fly over water falls and trees, and then up again crossing the beautiful valleys. In front of them were hundreds of bamboo trees moving and swaying left and right, or bending and straightening up, with the direction of the wind. The gentle sound of rustling bamboo leaves was so soothing to the ears. Thud! He landed on the ground there. Lulu held Mikael's hand. She was puzzled by the scene in front of her. "Tatat, we arrived? Where's the chicken?" Mikael nodded, amazed by the hundreds of beautiful bamboo trees. He led Lulu and Happy. Slowly but surely, they walked into the bamboo forest. Silence except for the sounds from bamboo leaves blowing in the wind. The wind felt so cold on their cheeks.

Walking farther in, they were crossing among the trees and observing the footpath in the middle of a neatly arranged grass plot. Lots of cool shade. On the opposite side, the trees seemed to group and form the shape of a semi-circle. So, as they passed through, they didn't feel the heat at all. A few moments later, Mikael felt something different. After the tall trees, with its outline like a circular formation that resemble a giant door, they saw a grass field just meters away from them. Green but not too big. Opposite it were rows of bamboo forests. Just like what he had seen from the picture puzzle. The grass field was surrounded by bamboo trees. There was a sense of satisfaction in Mikael's mind because they had discovered the first location. However, it was just silence in the middle of a grass field. No one, nothing whatsoever. Mikael's eyes swept through the surroundings around him. Meanwhile Lulu and Happy also remained quiet beside him. 

Suddenly three butterflies flew towards them. Mikael exclaimed, "Look, Lulu, Happy! The butterflies from the butterfly forest before. Same colour. Remember?" 

 Lulu nodded happily and then was jumping up and down trying to catch the butterflies. Happy was also barking happily. The three butterflies perched on each of their heads, without moving. "Tatat, what're they doing? They don't bite, do they?" 

Mikael shook his head. "Don't think so, Lulu. But I also don't know what they're doing for us. They are quiet. Maybe they want to protect us. Think well of them, my sister!" Happy wasn't bothered at all by the presence of the butterflies above their head. She was quiet and calm. Even authoritative, with her head held high. The butterfly on Mikael's head flew and several times turned its head towards him. "What? You want us to follow you?"

The Butterfly dipped its head and flew ahead of them. Meanwhile the other butterflies remained on Lulu's and Happy's heads. "Come on, Lulu, Happy. I think it wants to give us clues. Let's follow!"

They crossed the grass field, and entered the bamboo forest opposite it. The view remained the same. Only very tall bamboo trees and footpaths that were wider than the bamboo forest before it. As they followed the Butterflies, they turned left and passed by a few trees. Mikael was a little surprised to see the changes in the height of the bamboo trees they had passed by. This time it was different. Shorter, leaves very small. Hundreds of these short bamboo trees spread across and formed like the arc of a not-too-wide semi-circle. Again, another beautiful grass field in the middle of it. At a corner on the right among the bamboo trees was a very uniquely shaped tree house. That house looked like a chicken coop.

Mikael hadn't seen this type of chicken coop before. Each chicken seemed to have its own roof made from bamboo leaves. The Butterflies kept flying without going near the coops. They walked to the middle of the grass field. At first, they didn't see anything. Only grass. However, as they approached the middle of the field, they could see very small chicks, very tiny indeed! There were about ten of them, all very surprisingly cute, clean, and tiny - the size of our little finger! "Wow, my goodness! How is it possible for these chicks to be so small?" Mikael bent and tried to pick one from the grass. Suddenly they heard a very loud pecking sound from behind them.

"Oh, God!" shouted Mikael. As a matter of reflex, he grabbed Lulu and Happy and flew away. There it was - a very loud-voiced Chicken with a very huge body like the size of Mikael's! It seemed very angry and ran or rather hopped very fast, despite having only one normal leg. Its other leg seemed to be bent. Mikael was nervous because the chicken kept making very loud cackling noises. Lulu was frightened and started to cry, screaming and holding onto her brother. Happy was barking as the wind blew against him. The situation was really tense!

The Butterfly flew to Mikael's face trying to get his attention. But because he was so nervous, he couldn't concentrate. He seemed to have lost the power to fly! They fell onto the grass field. Trying to ignore his pain, Mikael tried to pull himself up from the ground and tried to fly again. But he couldn't. The Giant Chicken was running towards them! Lulu screamed again and Happy continued barking despite her fears. Mikael immediately exerted all his power so that they could fly again. At that point, he was almost pecked by the Giant Chicken. Somehow, they managed to fly into the air. Mikael raised their bodies as high as possible to avoid the Giant Chicken, which was raging mad. It was a horrifying sight to see The Giant Chicken flapping its wing on the ground while glaring hatefully at them.

While trying to control his breathing, Mikael asked Lulu if she was all right. Lulu managed to nod slowly. She was still in shock. Happy continued barking and seemed very annoyed. Mikael could feel Lulu's heart pounding through his back. He was worried his sister would be traumatized. He was in the air, circling the bamboo forest. Lulu started whining and asking to return to the cave. Mikael coaxed her to remain calm and tried to divert her attention to the ground below them. When Lulu looked below her, slowly began peeping from behind Mikael's back, she was struck by the beauty and the neatness of that bamboo forest. "Tatat, so beautiful! Right? The place for the Chicken also good, not like the one at home, right, Tatat?"

Mikael merely nodded, relieved that his sister was calm. While trying to control his emotion and concentration, the Butterflies returned to Mikael. And this time they succeeded! Mikael finally noticed them! "What is it, Butterfly? Leave me alone! I'm trying to get us to fly!" Mikael shouted. The Butterfly was fluttering rapidly its wing at Mikael, and instantly Mikael was silent. With gestures, the Butterfly was asking Mikael to apologize to Giant Chicken, and to explain that he had no intention of stealing her chicks. Mikael argued. He said it was not possible to make the Giant Chicken understand; besides, it was very angry. Mikael shook his head vigorously. He didn't want to go there again. He didn't have the heart to see his sister frightened. He flew in the opposite direction to get away from the Butterfly.

The Butterfly remained patient and indicated to Mikael to look below him. But Mikael didn't care. He dived down and then flew up to avoid the Butterfly. Finally, a string flew out from one of its wings. The string of the Butterfly wrapped around Mikael, Lulu and Happy until they couldn't move at all. Lulu screamed in fright. Happy was barking loudly! When Mikael wanted to rebel, the Butterfly with its other wing indicated again to Mikael to look below. Mikael obeyed, although was annoyed. He peered down below. And he saw a sorrowful sight. The Giant Chicken's leg was bleeding very heavily. It collapsed in pain. Its body seemed weak. Its chicks squawked beside her.

Mikael's tears immediately started to drip. He couldn't bear to see that sad sight. He looked at the Butterfly, bobbed his head and asked that the coil around them be released. The Butterfly responded. Instantly the rope around them disappeared. Slowly, Mikael flew down and approached the Giant Chicken lying limply. Happy guarded Mikael by barking loudly. That made Giant Chicken turn and look at her. Its eyes were again angry and furious. It tried to stand up to chase them away. Mikael panicked. He flew without any specific direction, wobbled and dropped onto the ground. The Giant Chicken instantly ran towards him with its one leg. Lulu screamed hysterically, holding onto her brother even more tightly this time! Mikael tried to fly again but failed. The Butterfly stroked Mikael's face with one of its wings. Finally, Mikael understood. He had to calm himself first.

Mikael held Lulu's hand tightly. He also tried to calm Happy by holding her head. Then, he leaped into the air. He was flying again while trying to control his breathing. "Lulu, Happy, don't move but stay on my back, please. Listen to me and trust me. Understand?" Lulu was already frightened, quiet and not moving. Even without any command, she was already on Mikael's back. Meanwhile Happy was tensed, barking loudly. "Happy, try to be quiet first! Stop barking like this! Follow my orders!" Mikael looked at Happy sternly. Happy immediately became quiet, dipping her head. On the other hand, the Giant Chicken continued to be very noisy down there. Looked like she was extremely mad! Mikael flew a little bit farther away from the Giant Chicken, and remained cautious. Then, he descended slowly. His breathing was not regular because he was scared and tensed. However, he tried to stay calm. Lulu and Happy were already behind him. Quiet without any noise. Meanwhile the Butterflies continued to fly above the respective heads.

As expected, The Giant Chicken was hopping towards them. Its beak ready to peck at Mikael, who remained quiet and calm. He stretched his right hand up. He was looking for the eyes of the Giant Chicken with its huge body. Got it! The Chicken's eyes were very wild-looking, its eyeballs were angry-looking! Mikael looked into those eyeballs. With a deep breath, Mikael spoke loudly to the Chicken. "Stop! Look into my eyes! Listen to me!" The Giant Chicken was still angry, making loud noises, but then stopped. Its eyes stared at Mikael. Moments that were very tense! Mikael said gently but firmly. "Come on, be quiet. Don't make noise. Try and listen to me first, Madam Chicken!" Finally, the Giant Chicken wanted to obey. They glared at each other. Lulu peeped from behind Mikael's back while Happy stood tense and ready to pounce on the Giant Chicken. She was waiting for her boss' command: "Attack, Happy!" 

However, the words that came out from the Giant Chicken, shocked them. "Why do you want to take away my babies?" Now the Giant Chicken's voice was very gentle and soft. It was so different when it was furious and mad. It looked sadly at Mikael.

"No, Madam Chicken, I didn't mean to take your babies. I was very surprised to see such tiny chicks. I wanted to have a closer look. In the past, when I was still alive, I took care of more than fifty chickens. Each morning I cleaned their coop, fed them and collected their eggs to be sold in the market."

Madam Giant Chicken looked into Mikael's eyes. This time her eyes softened, even saddened. "Forgive me! Because I misunderstood your intentions. No one has ever come to visit us. I find you all so strange. I merely wanted to protect my chicks."

"Not at all, Madam Chicken. It's my fault, not yours. Actually, my coming here is because I wanted to help care for you! From a picture in the cave, I saw that you were sick. The shank is crooked and that makes it very difficult for you. Right?" 

Madam Giant Chicken bobbed her head, surprised. "Cave? Wow, you must have been given a special task for a special person on Earth before you can enter heaven, right?"

Mikael was taken aback because Giant Chicken knew all about it. "Yes, I think I have to understand what's behind the purpose of my journey. Here, this is my sister, Lulu and my dog, Happy." Mikael pulled Lulu's hand so that she changed her position.

"Hi," Lulu said, a little scared. "Madam Chicken don't bite Lulu, please," Lulu said while pointing her index finger at Giant Chicken.

Madam Giant Chicken laughed. "No! Of course not, pretty baby!"

Mikael introduced Happy. "Happy, introduce yourself." Happy trotted to the front, tilted her head up and barked only once, her tail wagging. She's still alert, afraid if Giant Chicken changed her mind.

"Hello, clever dog. I'll not hurt you. Let's be friends, right!"

Mikael grinned. "Yes, I think we all are friends already. Come, let me look at the wound on your leg." Mikael was relieved when everything became calm. He focussed on the chicken's leg. Meanwhile Giant Chicken looked gently at the three Butterflies still circling above their head. "Madam Giant Butterfly must have helped, right?" Mikael was surprised, not expecting Giant Chicken to know so much. 

But before Mikael could say anything, Giant Chicken spoke again. "Because you have helped their mother. Therefore, their mother sent them to always accompany you, guide you, and also your mother on earth. It's much better if you can understand correctly and quickly the meaning behind all these, young man!" Giant Chicken said.

After having said that, Giant Chicken lay on the grass. It was ready to be treated by Mikael. The wound on Giant Chicken's foot was quite deep. Mikael had never done any kind of treatment in his life. He himself was puzzled because his hand seemed to be guided to hold the chicken's leg, and then to straighten and to massage it. Lulu and Happy were playing with the chicks. Actually, there're lots of them. The chicks also surrounded Lulu and Happy. Some hung around their mother.

Madam Giant Chicken seemed relieved at what Mikael was doing for her. She closed her eyes, whimpering slightly when Mikael touched the part that hurt. Then a few minutes later. "Done, Madam Chicken. Try to stand and walk slowly. I'll help you walk. Remember, believe in the strength within you!" Mdm. Giant Chicken nodded. She raised herself slowly, very slowly in fact. After trying to sit, it then tried to raise itself. First, with its healthy leg. Then the other leg which Mikael had straightened. And, without much difficulty, that could stand on the grass. A miracle! Then she tried to walk slowly and to stand. That made everyone speechless!

Mikael held his breath when Giant Chicken tried to do all that. The three Butterflies now surrounded the Giant Chicken. Then it tried to walk again. The longer it tried walking, the faster it walked, and then it fell. But Giant Chicken didn't give up! It raised itself again, walking faster and faster. And finally, Giant Chicken could run! The chicks cheered to their mother's recovery. They were so boisterous! Happy and Lulu were also jumping happily on seeing that Giant Chicken could run freely. Mikael cupped his hands. He looked up to the sky, feeling grateful because he could heal Giant Chicken. Madam Giant Chicken was panting for breath. It was exceptionally tired but extremely happy. It ran as far as it could, on and on it ran, while Mikael, Lulu and Happy watched it from afar.

Suddenly the sky turned dark with blankets of thick black clouds. Mikael was perplexed. Just a moment ago the sun was shining brightly, but now it seemed that there would be a heavy rain. The sound of lightning striking. That made Giant Chicken instantly stopped in its track and a second later it sped towards them. "Come on, my chicks, hop onto my back!" Without further commands, all the chicks jumped onto its back. Giant Chicken screamed again but this time at Mikael. "Follow me!"

Mikael grabbed Lulu and Happy, flying and following Giant Chicken. Lulu was really frightened. She was afraid to look in front of her. Her face was hidden by her brother's back. Happy was barking nonstop and her tail stiff and upright. The mood was gloomy. The thick black fog had already enveloped the world around it. Visibility was very bad. Mikael couldn't see far ahead. His target vision was Giant Chicken's tail. The Three Butterflies also following them, but flying above them. It looked like they were heading for the chicken coop. While the sky was noisy and dark, the heavy rain was pouring water. Their bodies were wet and soaked through.

When they reached the chicken coop, Giant Chicken was busy warming the coop. She lighted a lamp which miraculously didn't need electricity. With just a clap with her claws, the lamp was lit. Then she put the chicks - one chick at a time - to sleep on a very soft bed of bamboo leaves. While Giant Chicken was busy, Mikael looked in bewilderment at his own body. Then at Lulu's and then Happy's. All very confusing to him. They were thoroughly soaked from the rain water a while ago. But the moment they stepped into the coop, their bodies were dry and warm. The rain water miraculously didn't penetrate through the cracks among the bamboo leaves.

Mikael looked around. That place was unusual, he thought. Very peaceful. Serene. Nothing scary at all. He squinted his eyes trying to see what was at the far end. It seemed like there were tree stumps. He approached it. Lulu was skipping trying to reach his hands. "Tatat, dark. Tatat!" Mikael gestured with his index finger pressing his lips to warn them to remain quiet. Happy obeyed and followed the two of them from behind. The Three Butterflies also follow suit.

On entering the forest, Mikael's eyes began to adjust to the darkness around him. In fact, he could see in the dark. He was aware that the trees in front of him now were not the same as the bamboo trees before it. The trees were sturdy looking, with huge strong trunks and wide leaves. Mikael continued to walk towards the tree stumps that had caught his attention earlier. Slowly he bent his body. He wanted to see what was inside that stump. And, when he popped his face into its hole of the tree, he jumped backwards. From inside the tree stumps, three tiny baby rabbits came out. Milky white, very cute and adorable! 

Lulu also jumped up, stood up and shouted. "Tatat, rabbits!" Lulu screamed while following those three rabbits. Suddenly she bumped into something and then had to tilt her head up to see everything in front of her. Lulu was surprised because she had bumped into a pair of rabbit feet that were so huge. Lulu didn't move. Tearing. She began to feel afraid. Suddenly the right hand of the rabbit reached out for Lulu's small body, and flung her away from earth. Lulu's body was flying in the air. 

Mikael, who saw that, immediately flew in anger. "Hey, let go of my sister!" shouted Mikael.

Meanwhile Happy wanted to run and bite the Giant Rabbit's feet. The Butterfly fluttered its wing to remind Mikael to stay calm. Between annoyance and being aware of the situation, Mikael finally slowed down his flight. He was quiet and was controlling his breathing. After feeling much calmer, he flew to that Giant Rabbit. He stopped right in front of the Giant Rabbit's face. He looked into those huge eyes - black and looking very upset. Mikael's chest was pounding and he was equally upset and trying to control himself. His breathing was uneven. "Kind-hearted Madam Rabbit, she is my sister. Please let her down slowly!" Mikael said, horrified to see his sister swinging in the air and screaming out her fears.

"No! She was going to hurt my babies!" Giant Rabbit said.

Mikael shook his head. "No. She only wanted to play with your children. My sister is still small and doesn't understand anything. I beg you, let her go, and let's be friends."

"What's your guarantee if I let her go? You promise she would not hurt my children? The same goes for that naughty dog of yours," Giant Rabbit said while fanning one of her legs bitten by Happy.

Mikael turned, ordered Happy to stop biting. Happy looked in his direction as though to say she disagreed. However, she finally obeyed and walked behind Mikael. "Look, my dog's already calm. Now, let go of my sister."

Giant Rabbit looked at Lulu, who had been swaying from her huge finger, and spoke gently to her. "You're a cute kid, I'll let you go for now. But you will not harm my children, OK?" Lulu was still crying out of fear and could only nod. "Come on. Now, you, stop crying!" said Giant Rabbit while gently kissing Lulu. But Lulu was trying to edge away because she was still afraid. Giant Rabbit then lowered Lulu onto the ground. Lulu hugged Happy who was licking her own body. Mikael, who was still floating in the air, was very relieved. Giant Chicken approached them. She was smiling on seeing that incident.

"Madam Rabbit, they're good kids." The boy has already treated my leg. Look, I can walk again," said Giant Chicken. Giant Rabbit was surprised to see that Giant Chicken's leg has already been straightened. She praised Mikael who was flying in front of her. "You're great, young boy! What's your name?"

"I'm Mikael, and this is my sister Lulu. That is our beloved dog, Happy."

Giant Rabbit greeted. "Is it possible for you to help me repair our tree house? I'm always worried because my children are not comfortable in their old tree house. Lots of small ants there. I worry that they would be infected, be sick, or die," said Giant Rabbit in a slow, worried tone.

Mikael looked at the tree that he had set foot on. Then he looked at the rabbit's face. "What do I have to do?"

"My body is too big to enter that stump, and to clean their sleeping place. There has to be someone who can enter and clean it. Could you?"

Mikael nodded and slowly descended. "Of course, I can. Just a minute." On touching down, Mikael asked Happy and Lulu to help him. He went inside the hollow of that tree. Dark! He waved with his right index finger and immediately a light beamed. He looked around that hole. Nothing whatsoever. No ants. Taking a small step, he walked farther in. Suddenly he was stunned by a hissing sound from the front! He stepped back while trying to remain calm. He knew it was the sound from a snake. But he couldn't be sure where the snake was.

He used his forefinger to open the small narrow space inside the burrow. At one end hiding under a leaf was a small long green snake curled up with a very strange-looking face! The snake's face was small but its eyes and mouth were big. Its fangs also very small but sharp. Mikael held his breath. The snake was watching him. It seemed not to like Mikael's presence. Mikael tried to talk to the snake. "Hi, kind-hearted snake. Could you go and find another place to live? Here, it's already occupied with cute little rabbits. Pity them if they die because you ate them." The snake remained quiet. Mikael coaxed again. "I'll help you find your mother later." The snake remained quiet. Mikael didn't give up. "If you insist on being stubborn like this, I'll burn you alive now!" For a few seconds, the snake remained quiet. Mikael tried to stay calm and patient. Then the snake moved slowly towards Mikael. 

Mikael was shocked! "Wow, just a moment! You don't come straight towards me. Let's both move together. You move forward, I move backward. We continue like this until we leave this tree. Understand?" The snake remained quiet, not moving. "Oh dear!" Mikael thought that the snake understood what he had said. He began to step back. The snake didn't move. Using his left hand, he gestured the snake to move forward. Then, Mikael stepped back, and again the snake moved forward. They continued like this.

When Mikael took his second one-step back, he felt something was on his knees and it was making him itch. He checked quickly and was shocked to see armies of ants attacking his knees. Big red ants. Each bite gave off a very hot sensation, and then caused swelling, redness, pain and itch - all at the same time. Bites from those ants could be fatal if no action was taken immediately!

Mikael looked at the snake's eyes. "Hi! Snake! Help! I beg you, help me! I know you have venom which you spit out from your mouth. "I'll help you find your mother later. Help me. Spit out your venom onto those red ants. They've attacked me and they're breeding inside the rabbits' house. I beg you, Snake," Mikael pleaded earnestly.

The snake didn't move. It merely looked at Mikael's eye. Mikael didn't give up. He looked into the snake's eyes. He was sure that the snake would help him. "I beg you, Snake," Mikael pleaded again. Without a word, the snake eyes turned to look at Mikael's swollen red knees. Snake moved its head slightly. Mikael understood. Snake wanted him to move aside. He brushed off those ants which were still on his knees. It was very painful. His left knee was even more badly affected. Slowly Mikael moved to the side and gestured to the snake not to do anything yet. About five steps back and after feeling safe, he indicated to Snake to start spraying its venom.

Snake didn't move. However, in a matter of seconds, it sprayed a clear green saliva directly onto the colonies of ants. Most of them died instantly. But some resisted by moving farther away and spreading themselves out. Mikael retreated again. Snake again spit out its poison. This time the spray formed a big circle. Like a magnet, it seemed to hit all the ants! Mikael held his breath as the venom spray almost reached his nose. The ground gave off a burnt smell as though something had been burnt. Mikael made sure that all the ants and their nests were hit by the spray of venom and then cleaned the area using his other index finger to remove all the dead ants.

Mikael had never used such his strength before. He was surprised when he realized that. However, unknown to him, all his strength was gone after doing that. He felt weak. Very weak. Then he fell asleep, unconscious. Snake looked at him. Slowly it approached him. Mikael was still sleeping. Snake continued to approach him, and began to touch him. With its tongue, it licked Mikael's head, and then moved closer to his body. It moved slowly and its body began to move by coiling around Mikael's body. After coiling Mikael's body tightly, it shut both of its eyes. Snake seemed to have fallen asleep. Mikael didn't know what the snake was doing after that. But Mikael's body weakened because he had exhausted all his energy. Then, slowly he began to feel warm although he remained weak. He was in this state for a few moments. 

Then suddenly, he heard the sound of a small girl's voice calling out worriedly from a distance. "Tatat! Tatat! Tatat!" The voice became louder as she continued calling him. Then, Mikael finally heard it in his ears. Mikael blinked. He tried to get up and looked around. His mouth felt dry, his body heavy but warm. Mikael began to regain his consciousness. He couldn't move. He could only move his head. Even that had its limitations. Mikael was wondering. What was it that caused him to be immobile? He tried to recall the events before that. Yes, after cleaning the colonies of dead ants, he was weak and couldn't remember anything at all. His eyes surveyed his surroundings. Where's that snake? He couldn't find it. He became afraid. He was worried that if the snake had left the burrow, it would hurt those outside there.

However, Mikael suddenly became conscious again. He felt the cold scales of the snake's body all over his body. He screamed in his heart. Now he understood why he couldn't move. The snake had coiled his entire body. He controlled his breathing and tried not to panic. He didn't want the snake to sense his fear. Gently he touched that snake's skin. That woke the snake, its eyes opened. "Snake, I think I have to get out of here with you!" Snake remained still. 

Mikael began to worry. However, he heard Kerlip's soft voice in his ears. "Learn from has happened to you. Don't see from the outside. However, feel first!" Kerlip said before she left. Mikael was confused. He didn't understand what Kerlip meant. Deep in thought, Mikael was not aware of anything, and he tried to recall what had happened. He ignored his sister's voice, which kept calling his name. He tried to concentrate in order to understand what he could learn from all those incidents. He imagined himself as a snake and wondered why the snake didn't bite or swallow him. But instead, it coiled his body and it seemed to be asleep. If the snake had bad intentions towards him, it could surely had done it all too easily.

Mikael was wondering. "Does this mean the snake is good. It deliberately gave me its energy so that I can be strong again. Yes, oh my God! Thank you, Snake," he exclaimed while trying to stroke the snake's body. "Thank you, you have saved me, Snake. Now I feel good. Thanks to you, I have regained my strength. Please release me so that we can walk out together. You hear my sister's voice out there? She must be worried because I've been here too long!" Snake looked at Mikael's eyes. Slowly its body began to remove itself from Mikael's. 

Calmly, Mikael watched it. "Thank you, once again, thank you. Come on, let's get out of here!" Snake and Mikael moved in unison. Mikael moved backwards, while Snake moved forward. As the hollow was too narrow, Mikael had to occasionally stop and relaxed his feet by straightening backwards while looking at the snake's eyes. A few times he reminded Snake to be patient because he was very tired from bending his body for too long.

 The moment they were out, Mikael immediately hugged Lulu who had been very worried while waiting for him. He hugged Happy and looked at Giant Rabbit. "Madam Rabbit, this is our new friend. Snake has been very kind and smart. All this while, it had been in a corner of your children's coop. It's kind and very helpful. It helped me kill so many ants by just spraying its venom. It has also treated me because I had used up all my energy while inside there. Now your children will have a clean house and won't be bothered by ants anymore!"

Giant Rabbit cried, feeling very grateful. She picked Mikael up and hugged him. Happy immediately was barking loudly. She didn't like her master been carried like that. Promptly Giant Rabbit set Mikael down. "Thank you very much. Now, how can I help you all as a gesture of my gratitude? Are you all hungry?" Lulu nodded. Giant Rabbit immediately took carrots from behind the trees. When Mikael wanted to take those carrots, his knees hurt and itched. 

He checked them and was shocked to see his knees had swollen. Snake looked at him. Mikael was deep in his thoughts and remembered why his knees were like that. "Oh! I was bitten by those red ants, right? What should I do, Snake?" Snake was silent. 

However, a few seconds later, moving gracefully it took some leaves that were near them. Mikael was puzzled. "What're those leaves for?" Mikael asked. Madam Giant Rabbit explained to him that those leaves could treat the swelling and itch on his knees. Mikael was surprised. His knees felt cool! And in just a little while, the swelling subsided. His knees returned to normal. "Yes, Thank God! Thank you, Snake, you are very kind. You have treated me!" Snake hissed and then moved away from them. 

Lulu asked timidly, "You want to go where, Snake?" Snake didn't turn. It moved quickly away from them. 

Rabbit smiled and asked them to eat the carrots she offered them. Amazing carrots! They tasted so fresh and sweet! Even Happy ate them eagerly. "Our next task is about squirrels. Is there a squirrel house, or anything that is connected to squirrels in this area?" Mikael asked while feasting on those fresh carrots. 

Madam Giant Chicken had been quiet. Then became sarcastic. "Squirrels? This forest is the kingdom of the squirrels. This forest is controlled by the squirrel community! What kind of assignment do you have with the squirrels?" Giant Chicken asked unexpectedly. Madam Chicken seemed to be thinking seriously. 

Giant Rabbit then reminded her. "You forgot, Madam Chicken? King Squirrel recently died after been bitten by a tiger while he was hunting for food in another forest. The wife of King Squirrel is expecting. Maybe this child must help with the delivery." 

"Oh, yes! You're right, Madam Rabbit! Come on, hurry! I'll show you where Queen Squirrel lives!"

After a short wait, Giant Chicken immediately stood up and ran. Mikael, Lulu and Happy who were still holding the carrots flew beside them. Madam Giant Rabbit and the chicks waved their hands. They looked at Mikael, Lulu and Happy leaving them and flying higher.

That forest didn't look any different from the forest before it. The dangling foliage was lush and beautiful. However, Mikael felt that there was a different aura. The farther one entered, the more mysterious the aura. The trees seemed to be alive. As though watching them closely. In fact, it seemed as though it wanted to swallow them whole. And it seemed that it was not only Mikael who felt that way. He was surprised when Lulu moved closer to him while her hands circled Mikael's neck. Lulu was frightened. So was Happy. Her tail? Slanting to the right yet upright. "What forest is this?" Mikael was thinking. Even though its distance was not too far from the forest before it.

Giant Chicken glanced at them. She was aware that they were quite frightened. While running without stopping, Giant Chicken said, "Just be calm, guys. It's true that this place feels haunted. It's because all the trees in this area, which isn't too big, are living creatures. They shelter the squirrels. Between one branch and another, although separated, they are actually part of the whole. Trees provide food for the squirrels, protect them from tigers and other predators. I'm sure they are observing you all. As for me and rabbit, we're already known in this place. We get along with one another. We are most afraid of tigers!" Giant Chicken said.

Mikael was quiet but kept listening to Giant Chicken. While looking at all the trees and their branches, he was all the while trying to understand what Giant Chicken was saying. He looked closely. The branches on each tree were quite far apart. The leaves were broad. However, on observing further he noticed the details. Between one branch and another, they seemed to be connected by many tiny networks resembling spider webs - not clearly seen, very fine. The networks formed an unusual pattern because they were interconnected with one another.

Before Mikael had the chance to scrutinize further, Lulu pulled him to look at something. Mikael looked at the direction where Lulu was pointing. Above the hole of one of the trees, a small cute infant squirrel came out. And then another. Eventually, there were many of them. About twenty kits! Wow! Amazing. The kits were running confidently from one branch to another. Mikael was right about his assumptions. When Lulu exclaimed her surprise on seeing one of the kits at the very front, it was actually at the end of a branch. She thought the animal was about to fall. The kit continued to run calmly on the tiny network of webs supported by the branches. Really extraordinary handicraft! The moment one of the kits in the middle of the row was about to fall, that network, like a trampoline, supported her body to prevent it from landing on the ground.

They arrived at a tree which was very wide, huge with lots of branches and leaves. The tree seemed rather creepy - more spooky than the rest. It was standing right in the middle. Mikael looked around him. It looked like they were in a place surrounded by trees, which were in close proximity with one another. The tree in front of Mikael was ten times bigger than the other trees around it. That tree was the tallest. Mikael was in awe looking at that tree. Lulu, who was been carried on Mikael's back for quite some time, was afraid of the situation around her. 

Giant Chicken saw them, and smiled gently to Lulu as though calming her. "We called this tree Mother Tree. The Queen Squirrel lives here. You have to pass a few guards at the end of the branch, and then you'll be accompanied to enter the tree. I cannot enter. My body is too big. Anyway, I must return to the coop. My chicks will probably be awakened by now. They must be hungry because of the heavy rain. By the way you'll be fine," Giant Chicken said. 

Mikael looked at Giant Chicken for a long while. He felt a pang of sadness in his chest. He cried and hugged Giant Chicken tightly. "I'm sure to miss you, Madam Chicken. You remind me of my Mama. I miss her so much, my mama of long ago. Mama was a role model in taking care of us!" Mikael said. Mikael hugged even tighter. He cried on. Lulu, who was on his back, was shaken by Mikael's crying and breathing. 

Madam Giant Chicken responded to Mikael's tight hug, pulled his face and looked gently into his eyes. "Remember, my Smart Boy, you have an assignment, don't you? Organize everything together so that they become part of the whole meaning. Of course, you want to finish your task on earth so that you are one with the Creator. Think and be wise when deciding and doing something. You're really special. You can do it!" Giant Chicken hugged him again before letting him go. "So, do your assignment immediately. Don't give up!" Giant Chicken said while tapping Happy and Lulu's head before leaving them, and singing happily.

Mikael, Lulu and Happy watched Giant Chicken leaving until she disappeared from their sight. Then they turned their attention to the tree in front of them. No guards whatsoever around the tree, Mikael spoke to himself in his heart. He tried to focus on his vision. However, he failed. Slowly, he flew closer to that tree. He couldn't see anything. Quiet, serene, silent and tense. He circled around it looking for a door, or for a squirrel guard which had been mentioned by Giant Chicken. None or no one was around! Mikael returned to his starting position.

He gently touched the tree trunk while continuing to observe closely. Oops! There was something interesting from the side of that tree. A trunk protruding, shaped like a knob! Mikael was hesitating. "Touch or don't touch?" he was asking himself. Finally, he worked up his courage to touch the trunk functioning as a knob. Nothing happened. He pressed again - harder this time. Suddenly, something popped out from the trunk and was right in front of his face - shocking Mikael and making him step back. His mouth opened. In front of him were two squirrels holding pointed sticks, one on the left and the other on the right of a gate that opened outwards from inside the tree. Both were quiet, were standing upright, had sharp-looking eyes watching the three of them. 

Mikael was able to control himself. "Hello, Squirrel! Let me introduce myself. I'm Mikael, this is my sister and that is my dog, Happy. We are here because we would like to meet the Queen Squirrel and to help treat her."

The squirrel standing on the left immediately jumped onto Mikael's body and began sniffing his entire body carefully. Then it turned to Lulu. She was laughing and amused because her whole body was being sniffed by the squirrel. Then Happy got his turn. However, the squirrel didn't jump onto the dog's body. It only looked at her from the back of Lulu's sock.

Not long after, it ran quickly to its original position and then whispered to its fellow guard who then nodded and gave a sign using his small stick to indicate that they were allowed to enter. Then like a miracle! Their bodies could suddenly squeeze into the small hollow of the tree. However, he still had to bend his body very closely. While crawling, Mikael nodded as a respect to the squirrel guards and to thank them for inviting them in. Meanwhile Lulu was watching, and feeling afraid. 

Mikael was impressed by the luxury inside that tree. A most unusual sight! Small lamps - very tiny, shaped like leaves - decorated the whole wall. There was also a lovely smell of roasted nuts from goodness know where. 

Lulu's tummy was growling. "Tatat, I'm hungry. Nice smell!" whispered Lulu.

Mikael chuckled. "Brother is also very hungry suddenly. The smell is so appetizing. Eat first the carrots in your hand, Lulu."

Lulu looked at that remaining carrot. Reluctantly she nibbled on it, just a teeny weeny bit and so slowly. She had lost her appetite for the carrot because there was the smell of something more interesting than vegetables. Happy was alert and following them at the back. Her tail was upright and her mouth closed tightly. They walked into the centre of the tree's hollow. On entering, all along the lane on both sides, there were always things that were unusual. On the left corner were two squirrels knitting warm clothing. On the other side was a number of squirrels busy bringing big bags of nuts. They were working together to carry those big bags. They seemed very heavy. The farther in they walked in, the stronger the smell tempted Mikael and Lulu.

True enough, from a distance they could see tiny clouds of smoke from a stove. As they came closer, Mikael and Lulu stretched their necks to see what was in the stove. Wow! A pan full of nuts! The aroma from the steam and water vapours could trigger one's appetite. So very tempting! A few times Lulu was swallowing her own saliva. She started to whine, wanted to taste the nuts. Mikael merely shook his head. He himself was very hungry but controlled himself by not asking for those nuts that were being steamed.

All the squirrels pretended not to notice them. They didn't seem to care about the presence of Mikael's group. They continued working - calmly and seriously. As they were walking in, a group of squirrels was busy with the branches scattered on the floor. On moving forward, on the left side were clouds of smoke from something that they were cooking. Mikael exclaimed, "Lulu, look! There are more nuts being cooked in a different way. The aroma comes from here! Roasted nuts! Wow! Looks so delicious!" Lulu nodded and whispered to Mikael that she wanted those nuts. However, a stern look from the squirrel who was roasting the nuts made her not to repeat her request. Mikael pushed Lulu so that they continued their walk. They bent over and walked by crawling. Strangely, their backs didn't hurt at all.

The situation inside the tree was really busy. Not much different from a market or a factory. Lots of squirrels were walking all over the place, each busy with its own work. They were moving about without looking tired. So active, so agile. They arrived at a golden-coloured door. Guarded by two squirrels and again each was holding a long-pointed stick. As Mikael was about to open his mouth to explain his intention, one of the squirrels immediately opened the door, and invited them in. The other squirrel stepped aside and accompanied them in. The door closed from the outside.

Mikael and Lulu were dumbfounded by what they saw around them. The colour in the room was so different. Dominated by a soft-green colour. A couch made from leaves looked so beautiful and was placed in the middle of the room! On the left and right sides were chairs made from tree trunks and leaves. The mood in the room was peaceful and calm. An Assistant Squirrel gestured to them to move closer. They obliged.

The Assistant Squirrel was busy moving his hands while his sharp eyes looked at Mikael. Mikael tried to read what those movements meant. Then he whispered, "You mean, it is the Queen Squirrel whom I must help? The one who is sleeping? And I must not make any noise while I'm here, is that right?" Mikael asked to clarify the messages intended from gestures made by Assistant Squirrel.

After both had mutually understood, Assistant Squirrel drew the curtain slowly. The Queen Squirrel with a big stomach was sleeping. The stomach was very big. It was probable that she would give birth to twin baby squirrels, thought Mikael. Assistant Squirrel woke Queen Squirrel by fanning a leaf close to the body of the Queen. Her movements were so gentle and very cautious. Queen Squirrel stretched herself and opened her eyes. Slowly, she spoke softly to Assistant Squirrel. "Who have you brought here? Is he the one whom I always see in my dreams?"

Assistant Squirrel nodded. Mikael was surprised to see Queen Squirrel's facial expression. Her face changed to sadness. Tears wet her cheeks. "Oh, God! Thank you! Finally, you've come to help and save the baby in my womb!" Queen Squirrel said softly.

Mikael couldn't bear to see someone crying in front of him. He quickly asked, "Is there anything about your baby, Queen Squirrel? Is everything all right with you?"

Queen Squirrel shook her head and at the same time tried to sit up on the bed. However, she could not. She was in pain and gave up. "I'm very sick, Young Man. Since my husband passed away, I have problem coping with my body. The baby in my womb feels so heavy. I'm often out of breath. But I must be strong for the sake of my kingdom. I don't want to give up. I don't want to die. I have to struggle. Every second, day and night, I ask the stars in the sky, and the land on earth, to send miracles to help me. I believe Nature will hear my prayer," Queen Squirrel said.

"Then, a few nights ago I had a strange dream. There is a human, or to be more specific a boy, who is strong and good, who will come and bring hope. I could only see this figure from his back. I couldn't see his face. But the vibrations were so strong that I could feel it. I tried to find the meaning behind my dream. However, everything is still a huge jigsaw puzzle. Until you arrived and said that you are here to help with the birth process. I'm so happy. I can feel the energy. Thank you so much for coming. You must be very tired. And who is this pretty little girl here? And this a cute dog?" Queen Squirrel said and pointed at Lulu and Happy.

Mikael was still impressed and listening to everything that was said. The way Queen Squirrel spoke and the melodious pleasant tone in her voice. Then stammering, he introduced Lulu and Happy.

Queen Squirrel nodded weakly and then spoke again. "From your third finger, you can channel positive energy to protect your condition so that you won't be weak."

Mikael was shocked to hear Queen Squirrel's explanation. There were so many questions running through his mind. How was it possible that she could be so strong and stoic after her husband's death? How did she know about the third or ring finger when he himself didn't know what kind of inner strength. Before he had the chance to ask again, Queen Squirrel suddenly was groaning in pain. She asked Assistant Squirrel, who had been quiet all the while, to get a handful of leaves. The leaves were very small. Placed on the table next to the couch. Queen Squirrel placed the greens on top of her stomach. 

Lulu looked at Mikael with a puzzled expression. Queen Squirrel seemed to understand that facial expression. She smiled while trying to endure the pain. "These leaves soothe the pain in my belly. I think the time for the birth is very near. You must get ready immediately, Young Man!" Queen Squirrel said with her eyes closed, breathing in and out slowly.

It was very clear that she was trying to bear the pain. Mikael panicked. He looked at Assistant Squirrel, who in turn responded with a sharp look. Mikael averted his eyes and looked around the room. He found something he could use as a bedsheet for the soon-to-be born baby squirrels. He saw a green blanket in a corner on the left. Mikael asked Assistant Squirrel to get it immediately. Then he spread that blanket under Queen Squirrel's body. Mikael inhaled. He cursed in his heart that Kerlip didn't help him. Why must he do these things and not Kerlip? Lulu was holding Mikael's right hand. He knew he had to focus. He used his third finger of his right hand to point in the direction of Queen Squirrel's stomach. Queen Squirrel had her eyes closed, while her body was shaking as it received the rays of energy beamed from Mikael's finger. The energy flow was so clear.

"Come on, now take a deep breath, and then breathe out as you focus on the birth of your baby. Right, Queen? Mikael said. The Queen was silent but nodded. "Follow my count - one, two, three! Exhale quickly!" Mikael said. They did that intensively a number of times.

"Lulu, you hold the Queen's hand!" Mikael ordered and Lulu promptly obeyed. Lulu held Queen Squirrel timidly. Happy was licking the Queen as a sign of sympathy. Tears wet the Queen's face. However, she only cried in silence. The Assistant Squirrel couldn't stand the sight of seeing her Queen suffering. She moved to a corner on the right of the room. Meanwhile, Mikael's body was perspiring as a result of the energy flowing out. And he was also beginning to be worried. Why wasn't the baby ready to be born yet?

However, Mikael's efforts and sacrifice were rewarded. After repeating the movements eleven times continuously, a cute baby squirrel came out accompanied by a sound 'blurp!' Mikael wanted to clean that baby, but 'blurp!' a second one popped out. Then another 'blurp!' Mikael laughed happily. Three kits arrived on earth. One female, two males. The three were put on top of Queen Squirrel's breasts. The Queen was very weak and almost fainted. But she immediately smiled when she felt the presence of little bodies on her chest. With eyes closed, she felt the wonderful softness of the babies' bodies. "Are they all normal?" the Queen asked Mikael.

"Of course. All three are normal and healthy. Let's put them on the bed on top of the bedsheet of leaves, so that the Queen can have a rest." Before Mikael finished talking, Lulu touched his hand and pointed at the Queen. She was already asleep. Mikael was quiet. Then the three helped Assistant Squirrel clean everything that was near the Queen. 

When they were finished doing the chores, they felt hungry. They sat on the floor. Lulu was already very tired and trying hard to fight her drowsiness. Mikael caught her just when her body slumped towards him, and he put her on his lap. Mikael looked at Queen Squirrel who was still soundly asleep. Assistant Squirrel, who was with them earlier, was nowhere to be seen.

"We should get out of the tree and leave now. We have already done our assignment, right?" Mikael said. Just when he had finished talking, the door opened. A row of squirrels lined up bringing trays filled with nuts! Mikael was very surprised. Gently he woke Lulu up, who promptly sat up, looked and blinked at them. The aroma of nuts, which they had earlier been tempting them on their way to the Queen Squirrel, was now right in front of them! Gentle smoke and steam floated from every tray.

The squirrels were neatly lined up, and did a graceful dance of moving up and down with ease while carrying a tray. Marvellous! Not one nut fell from the tray. It's fun watching the movements of their round buttocks. There was a squirrel that was very fat, with a short body but was a master in carrying and dancing with trays filled with nuts. It had a very happy and cheerful face. It lips were wider when compared to other squirrels. Lulu was laughing and rolling around on seeing that squirrel. Tears wet her face because her laughers were really of joy. Mikael was so happy to see his sister like that. So far, he had not seen his sister this happy. He was filled with emotion to watch Lulu, a sister whom he loved so much.

Meanwhile Happy also loved watching the squirrels' dancing. He tried many times to imitate their movements. It was really funny! Of course, Happy was not able to do it! A few times his wagging tail hit one of the squirrels and made it lose its balance and almost fall. However, with its great skills and agility, that squirrel managed to balance itself and continued dancing with a very happy face although its eyes were looking at Happy. Sharp and annoyed! When the squirrels were finished with their wonderful dance, they bowed in front of the Queen Squirrel who had already awakened. They then bowed in the direction of Mikael and his friends. 

On seeing the Queen Squirrel already awaken, Mikael stood up. He was wondering why the Queen Squirrel looked so fresh and healthy. "What're you doing, Your Majesty? You must rest!"

The Queen smiled and looked at Mikael with her beautiful round eyes. "It's all right, Young Man. I'm much better now. The energy you channelled into me is most extraordinary! Thank you so very much!" Queen Squirrel said. "You all must be hungry. My troop had already prepared food for you. Bon appetite. We'll talk later. Come on, please!" the Queen said and then walked elegantly.

Through a hand sign, she ordered her troop to set the table and invited their guests to sit and eat. Swiftly all the squirrels were working as commanded by the Queen. In a matter of seconds, everything was ready! Quick and neat! Mikael was amazed at what he saw. And equally quickly and neatly, they lined beside the dining table. Queen Squirrel invited Mikael to sit facing her, then Lulu and Happy on Mikael's left and right.

All the dishes looked delicious. It was unique because they didn't use plates. The wide leaves, which were already cleaned, were the substitutes. Mikael asked Lulu to pray first. The Queen Squirrel looked happily at the way Mikael treated his sister. After dinner, Mikael and Lulu were still looking hungrily at the variety of cooked nuts in front of them. Without feeling embarrassed, they tried all of them. Meanwhile, Queen Squirrel woke up her three kits which were still asleep, to nurse them.

"How do you all manage to cook so many kinds of delicious snacks? They're basically nuts, right? But the way you all prepared them is amazing. They don't taste like nuts!" Mikael said while eyeing Lulu and Happy, who were eating them eagerly.

The Queen Squirrel smiled on hearing Mikael's comment. She pointed to a few squirrels standing. "I'm so lucky to have all of them. And you see, those three squirrels in the centre. They are our best cooks! In the past, my late husband really enjoyed their cooking and was always looking forward to dinner time. Now he's gone. I'm sure there will be lots of delicious food in heaven, right?" said the Queen Squirrel looking sad for just a moment but was smiling again. Queen Squirrel offered Mikael and Lulu to have second helpings. Mikael declined. He was already very full. Lulu had already fallen asleep on Mikael's lap. "Really delicious. You all have been very special! Thank you for the meal," Mikael said while stroking his full tummy. 

Mikael then bowed before those great cooks, and then to the Queen. Queen Squirrel nodded elegantly, smiled and turned to look at the squirrels standing respectfully. With a flick of her hand and a nod, the squirrels responded with a nod and immediately started to clean the table. They returned the trays and used leaves to the kitchen.

Mikael observed the babies sleeping peacefully on Queen Squirrel's chest. The Queen looked with happiness at the three apples of her eye, and then at Mikael. "After this, what're your plans, Young Man?"

Mikael shook his head, heaved his shoulder and was quiet. He really had no idea what he would do. He was confused. He stared at his sister sleeping on his lap and gently stroking her hair. "I think I ought to return to the cave. I'm sure I'll know what my new task is or whatever. I must leave now. Thank you for the lovely meal. Please take care of the three babies, and this kingdom, Queen Squirrel, the most kind. And most extraordinary! An independent woman, and strong!"

The Queen Squirrel merely laughed. "Young Man, it's responsibilities that make you like this. And most importantly, I'm happy because I'm alive! That is most important! I hope my three kits will be like you someday, a tough leader, kind and strong! Be careful on your way!" said Queen Squirrel.

Mikael nodded and bid his goodbye again. Then he picked Lulu up and put her on his back. However, the three felt their bodies had suddenly become so very light, and they flew past all the squirrels that were at the front gate, just like they did when they met at the beginning. Unable to control their speed, their bodies continued flying. Very quickly they were already out and on and on they flew, high into space!

CHAPTER 9 

Their bodies flew into space. This time Mikael could control neither the direction nor the speed they were flying. There seemed to be another force in control. Goodness knows what or who! He also didn't know where they would be going. What he knew was that their destination this time would be very different from that of heading to the cave.

Keeping a sharp look-out, he looked around him. The view was really fantastic. Rice fields everywhere. Yes, rice fields. Grown on multi-level terraces, on highlands and lowlands. Lush bright green. Then they passed over a river with crystal clear water. The very long river split apart the field. Mikael turned to focus on what was in front. There was a very high hill with huge stones on its right side. Mikael realized that unlike the previous view, there were no colourful flowers now. As far as the eye could see, it was just green fields, stones and river. No trees at all!

Mikael was flying and looking at Lulu in a sleeping position beside him. He didn't have the heart to wake his sister to see that panorama. He turned to look at Happy. Mikael was surprised. Happy was also asleep while flying. "What's going on?" Mikael was wondering. However, before he could think further, Mikael felt that they were flying at a decreasing altitude. As they flew lower, the nearer they were to earth. Mikael was glaring! In front of him was a green hill, very big. Mikael panicked! They were flying straight towards that hill! If they didn't ascend immediately, they would hit that hill! Mikael was screaming although he wasn't aware of it. The closer they were to the hill, the louder their screaming. And, hup! With just a few centimetres to spare, his head might otherwise have hit the surface of the hill, but his body suddenly turned in such a way to allow his feet to touch the ground! Mikael sighed, trying to recover from the shock and remaining fear.

He began to observe that hill. Nothing at all there. He returned to where he had landed. Lulu and Happy had landed at a spot with huge chunks of stones which were covered with green grass like a rug. They were still asleep there. Mikael turned again to his left and his right. As far as the eyes could see, only green, green, and green. No other colours. All had the same shade. He squatted down trying to find some clues. None. He didn't see any small animal. The entire ground was covered with green grass. Very fertile indeed. His ankles were also covered by the carpet of grass.

Suddenly he felt something touching his body. But, when he turned to look back, there was no one. Except for Lulu and Happy still asleep on the other side. He became more alert. His eyes swept through the surroundings again. Quiet. Only himself. Slowly, he started walking. Something touched him again, from the back. This time harder and repeatedly. Mikael turned and stepped back. He was upset, afraid and confused. What or who was it? He continued asking himself in his heart. He made a fist with his hands, tensed up his whole body, ready to fight. Suddenly the wind was blowing strongly. In front of him, a green vine was swaying on the side of that strange hill. Its end touched Mikael's shoulder, just like a person poking and tapping him. Jeez! So, it was just a vine that had touched or brushed against his shoulders just now! Mikael signed. What a huge relief!

He looked at that vine plant. It seemed that there were many such plants at the top there. And the vine that touched him earlier, moved again. It seemed as though it was asking Mikael to move closer. It was real! That plant could move. Mikael looked up, trying to find the source of that plant. The wind was blowing again. This time, much stronger. Then extremely strong. Mikael fell because he couldn't control his body. And before he could stand up, the vines were swaying here and there, creating motions that separate them to the left or to the right. The wind continued blowing very strongly, and the vines too were moving as well. As he approached, Mikael squinted trying to see closely what was in front of him.

There was a lane inside that yard of vines. They opened up to become two parts, as though to make way for Mikael. However, Mikael didn't move. He was afraid. That lane was so dark. Unconsciously, he shook his head. He retreated, stumbling. He was trying to avoid that dark lane. Suddenly, one of the tendrils from the left and another from right side, lengthened, moved quickly towards Mikael, and immediately coiled around his body! And, hup! With just one throw, Mikael landed at the entrance to the lane! The coil was so strong that Mikael felt he was gasping for breath. He was wriggling and asking to be released. The coil loosened. Mikael was then freed from the coil.

But, before Mikael could get up, Lulu and Happy were already standing next to him. They, too, were coiled and brought to the vine garden. Lulu and Happy seemed very confused. Not long after, Lulu rushed to Mikael. She immediately grabbed her brother. She was scared because there were giant plants that woke her up. Meanwhile, Happy was barking continuously. Then, Mikael commanded her to stop.

Mikael could stand upright. He began wondering. If he wanted to enter that lane, he needed a lamp. If he refused and left, what would happen? He didn't want to continue with his thoughts. When he turned to look back, he got such a shock. All the plants had pressed themselves together. Leaving no gaps in between them. There was no way out! However, Mikael was persistent! He wanted to try. With his hand, he signalled to Lulu and Happy to be quiet and not follow him. Mikael walked towards that vine garden. He tried with all his strength to open it so that he could pass through. But the moment his hand touched that plant, his body was pushed away to indicate a clear rejection.

That plant was really alive. It also knew if he wanted to run away. Mikael didn't give up, he tried again. This time, the vine was unforgiving. One of the vines coiled his body again, and threw his body and let him fall right beside Lulu and Happy. They were dumbfounded, watching that strange incident. Meanwhile, all the plants closed up to form a sturdy rigid wall! Mikael was rubbing his painful buttocks. He was screaming. "OK, OK! I give up. I won't resist! But if you guys want me to go in, give me help! How can we enter if there is no light at all?" Instantly, bright lights were beaming around them. Mikael was stunned! He didn't expect his request would be fulfilled so promptly and quickly.

Abruptly, he felt embarrassed. He looked down. Kerlip whispered into his left ear. "You only need to ask. Ask nicely. Don't demand. Nature will give all that you need. Understand?" Mikael agreed sheepishly. He stroked Lulu's hair, and then asked the two of them to follow him into the lane.

Obviously, that was a cave. On its left side was an engraved painting which seemed to have a certain meaning. On his right, was plain - as was normal in most walls of caves. One could smell something pleasant. The air was cold. They began walking slowly. Mikael observed closely the painting on the left side of the cave. At first, he didn't quite understand, but Lulu was shouting. "Tatat, what's this?"

Mikael studied the painting which Lulu had pointed out. He was silent. He looked closely at another part of the painting. He became even more astonished. Why did the entire painting depict him and his family? That painting showed the beginning of their adventure - of helping the big butterfly. There was the word "MOM" on top of that butterfly. Then there were the chicken, rabbit and squirrel. All had the word written "MOM." Painting after painting clearly showed the details of what they had gone through. When they had finished looking at the last painting, they stopped in their trek. There was a stone door in front of them. Shut tight! Countless times Mikael tried to push that door. But always failed.

"Tatat?" Lulu held even tighter onto Mikael's hand. She was scared. Mikael was silent, asking himself if they had come to a dead end. He was really confused. In his heart, he was asking for Kerlip and hoping that the fairy would come and whisper her instructions. For a long while, he focussed on calling for Kerlip. Instead, a snake showed up - suddenly and out of nowhere. It was that same snake he had met at the rabbit hut. But now was in front of him. The snake merely remained quiet, looking at them closely. 

Mikael squatted. "Hi, Snake! We meet again. What actually happened? Perhaps you can help me?" Snake didn't move. It slithered slowly towards that stone wall. It knocked on it with its face. The door promptly beamed a yellow golden light and it opened slowly. The snake moved to the side, making way for them to enter. One step, two steps. They began walking. Very slowly. Fearful of not knowing what was waiting for them inside there. While walking, Mikael kept looking straight ahead. "Snake, what is actually inside here?" Mikael asked. Wham! The sound of stone door being shut. Happy was barking. Mikael instantly turned his head. "What's wrong, Happy? Oh, where's the snake?" Mikael returned to the door. He tried to open it. He couldn't. 

"Help! Help! Open it! Snake, where are you?" Mikael was shouting. Silence. No one responded to his shouts. Dark. Gone was the light that had been trailing them earlier. Now cold. Just the three of them. In the dark, they were silent. Not knowing what must be done. Nothing could be seen in front of them. Unconsciously, they grouped together, holding one another's hand. Mikael said softly, "Come on, let's walk slowly. Let's stick together and walk. If I say right leg, then you guys also move your right leg, OK?" Mikael then gave the signal. Lulu nodded. Of course, Mikael and Happy couldn't see that. "OK, let's start. Right! Left! Right! Left!" Mikael's foot tripped on something but he didn't fall. So very dark. They continued walking but feeling very unsteady. Scared, anxious, and the urge to flee. Suddenly, from the opposite direction a small beam of light appeared.

The light then landed onto Mikael's right hand. Mikael was astounded. His forehead furrowed. It was that small stick that was always moving around the clear ball in that other cave. How could that be here? Were there two interconnected caves? Before Mikael could ponder further, the small glowing stick was moving his hand. It was pulling so hard that he had to run to balance himself. Lulu and Happy followed after him. Suddenly, Lulu tripped. She fell. But Mikael couldn't stop. That stick kept pulling him, faster. Mikael turned to look back. His sister with Happy was a few steps behind him. Mikael focussed on his mind to make Lulu fly onto his back. His focus and concentration immediately succeeded in making Lulu fly and then locking her hands on Mikael's waist. For the time being, Mikael was relieved. Happy was running beside him with her tail tucked in.

No one spoke. They continued into the cavity of the cave, allowing the small stick to drag them. The way into the cave was winding. Sometimes narrowing, sometimes very narrow and causing their bodies to brush against the walls of the cave. Then it swooped sharply and returned to being a wide lane. It felt as though their trip would never end. Mikael was breathless. No perspiration because of the cold air in the cave. But he was very tired and thirsty. Carrying the weight of Lulu on his back depleted all his energy. Seconds later, after swooping sharply a number of times, they again arrived at front of the stone door. That small stick directed Mikael's hand to knock. Three times.

The door opened slowly. They were impatient to see what was inside. Lulu moved up and down, wanted to peep from behind Mikael's head. She lost her balance, fell and was crying instantly. Mikael picked her up and carried her on his left side. He wiped away her tears from her face, whispered and asked her not to cry. Lulu nodded. Slowly she became quiet although her sobs could still be heard. That small stick again dragged Mikael to enter. With a lot of difficulties, Mikael allowed himself to be dragged. His left hand was holding Lulu to prevent her from falling. His right hand, the small stick. He spoke while walking and wiping away Lulu's tear. "Slow down, Little Stick, I'm trying to keep up with you!"

Mikael looked at Lulu to make sure that his sister was all right when Happy was barking very loudly. And at that moment when Mikael turned to look in front of him, he choked. His tongue stuck out. His eyes were suddenly hot because of his tears. His left hand was shaking violently. His right hand was holding the small stick even tighter so that it would not fall. Lulu peered into the direction her brother was looking. In front of them, a small round table like the one they saw in the previous cave, and complete with the clear round ball in the centre of the table. On the edge of that table, a man was sitting.

That man had made Mikael very emotional. A man whom he liked, loved, missed very much! That man's whole body was shining with light. White lights shining softly. Realizing that Mikael was present, he turned and smiled. Mikael was overflowing with his tears. His body like a statue. None of the words that he wanted to say could come out from his mouth. His lips felt as if locked. Happy was barking very loudly. He approached that man, began flicking the shine that was enveloping him. That man was smiling slightly and looking very gently. He remained seated in that spot. 

"Papa!" Only that one word finally came out from Mikael's mouth. He remained quiet like a statue in one spot. Lulu looked at that man. She was puzzled. Who was that man? Why was brother suddenly crying?

Suddenly Kerlip appeared. That fairy flew around that man and then around Mikael's face. She swung her stick in her hand. That stick which was in Mikael's right hand suddenly left his hand. Just disappeared, not knowing where. Kerlip looked at Mikael for a very long while. "Come on, my child. Enough of your crying. Now, you sit there! Beside your papa! Now!" Mikael obeyed. Still crying, he sat beside his papa. Lulu with a still confused look, sat on his lap. She kept watching - eyes moving back and forth - between that man and her brother. Occasionally, she looked at Happy, who hadn't stopped looking at that man. Her boss, who had left her so long ago. 

Kerlip was flying between Papa and Mikael. Kerlip spoke to Mikael. "Young Man, I brought your papa here. Not for you to express your yearnings but for a task which he should have completed long ago. And now, you must complete that task! You don't have much time. You all have been through a lot that was meaningful, but you aren't able to understand yet. It's true, as I've promised you at the beginning. You'll not meet your Papa in heaven until you have completed your task. However, there isn't much time. Your Papa sees with sadness the entire events from heaven, and has appealed to me to explain something to you. Although I granted your Papa's request, there were conditions. You cannot hug one another. A light shroud will separate you both. When you and sister and the dog break this condition, then your Papa will return to heaven. You will be trapped in this world forever."

Kerlip stopped talking, looking at Mikael's reaction. He was trying to digest - word for word, sentence by sentence said by Kerlip. His heart beat unevenly. His mouth wide-opened; so were his eyes. He tried to understand it all. Kerlip smiled gently. She looked at Papa. Impatiently she waved her stick. "Please. Go ahead!"

Papa didn't have the chance to talk, Lulu was whispering. "Tatat, who's that?" Mikael continued looking at Papa. He whispered back to Lulu. "That's our Papa, honey! Don't you remember?"

Lulu shook her head, and then again whispered, "Why is Papa here?"

Mikael looked at his sister. "I think Papa will help us complete the puzzle in our family life, Lulu. Now Lulu be quiet, please. Papa wants to talk!" Lulu nodded slowly but very confused. Mikael smiled, stroking Lulu's hair.