On the fifth day, they completed a master plan. The plan was simple yet meticulously detailed.

Through intense discussion and planning, they organized their priorities and confirmed their respective roles.

Rain took a deep breath. For the first time in a long while, she was now able to 'visually' situate herself atop a ‘giant chessboard’. Her realization of her own position in relation to all the other variables around her gave her a sense of freedom and confidence.

Internally, she made a promise to herself, ‘Never again… I will never again speak of myself as a genius. Discussing with others openly without prejudice leads to tremendous enlightenment. Also… I might even be able to survive…’

After seeing the overall plan, Rain couldn’t help but feel a light shining at the end of a dark tunnel.

***

The morning sun rose through the clouds in the garden and glistened dazzlingly on the pure white flower petals. The rolling morning fog seemed to extend as far as the eye could see. It was as if the fog was welcoming a new day for the villagers as its cooling presence rolled into and mixed in with the living.

    Leaves are passing by,...