0800 hours at Camp Gregorio, officials of the Department of National Security gathered for a conference. “Gentlemen and ladies, we are gathered here to discuss an important mission,” Major Gen. Baladad said.

“This is Santa Lucia,” Major General Baladad said as he points to the map. “Based on the reports we received, the cases of extortions and killings in this area had been rapidly increasing for the past five years. Based on the initial surveillance that we have, the camp of the rebel group Shadow is near the area. The Shadow was identified as the responsible group in the said terror acts,” he added.

The army officers earnestly listen as their commander explains the background of the mission. Among them is Lt. Col. Jerick Agustin.

The army had long been battling against the rebels; peace talks never materialized. The armed conflict got even worse as the rebel groups are now engaging in terrorist acts – extortions, killings, and the like.

“We received an order from the palace to finally end this terrorist acts. We have to find the leaders of the Shadow and let them pay for what they have done against the people and the country,” Major Gen. Baladad said.

Meanwhile, Brigadier General Santiago stood. “Soldiers, more than putting an end to this terrorist act, the President would like us to conduct situational assessment on areas perpetuated by the Shadow,” BGen Santiago stated.

“General Santiago is right. Our President believes that combating the rebel groups is not enough, the government should intensify its efforts in helping and improving the lives of the people,” Gen. Baladad said.

The two generals shifted their attention to Lt. Col. Agustin. “One of you will be going out for a mission in Santa Lucia. That would be you Lt. Col. Agustin,” Gen. Baladad said.

Lt. Col. Agustin stood. “It will be an honor to serve my people,” he said.

“You will immerse as a teacher in Santa Lucia Community School. You will be known as Jerick Macaraeg. Your mission is to find the leader of the Shadow and conduct situational assessment in the area,” Gen. Santiago explained.

Gen. Baladad handed a folder to Lt. Col. Agustin. “All your documents are already set. You have to review the profile you will portray to the people in Santa Lucia as well as the full background of this mission.”

“We are counting on you Lt. Col.,” Gen. Baladad said further. Lt. Col. Agustin stood and saluted the generals.

“Okay! This mission is highly confidential. The rest of you will closely monitor the reports from Lt. Col. Agustin and shall be in charge of coordination with the army officers and to our people in the ground,” Gen. Baladad said to the soldiers. “Your commanding officer will give you further instruction on this matter.”

The group was dismissed except Lt. Col. Agustin. Details of the mission was further discussed to him. “You will go to Santa Lucia in a week. This is the only remaining time you have to prepare. We know you can do it,” Gen. Baladad said. “I will not let you down sir,” replied Lt. Col. Agustin.

Lt. Col. Agustin went back to his cubicle. Waiting for him is his comrade, Lt. Col. Salazar. “Finally, you will be able to get out of your shell. In Santa Lucia you will experience fresh breeze and simple life. Enjoy your vacation bro!,” Lt. Col. Salazar said as he tapped Lt. Col. Agustin’s shoulder.

“Come on Alfred! I will be there for a mission not on a vacation!” Lt. Col. Agustin said with a smile.

“I know that Jerick, but you should also take that opportunity to somehow unwind. Who knows, you might find the girl of your dream out there,” teased Lt. Col. Salazar to Lt. Col. Agustin.

Lt. Col. Agustin just shake off his head, “for once Alfred, take this thing seriously.”

“I am serious!,” said Lt. Col. Salazar. “Come on bro, it’s been seven years since Marla died. It’s time to finally move on, you are not getting younger.”

Lt. Col. Agustin was just quiet. “If only I had that looks, I might have three wives,” Lt. Col. Salazar said laughing.

At the age of thirty-five, Lt. Col. Agustin stood tall, with alluring eyes and good body built. Many women, even his own comrades, admire him. However, most of the time, Lt. Col. Agustin is described as snob due to his silence and covertness.

Not many know of his past. How he endured the pain of losing his love from the hands of lawless people. His wife, Marla was then working in a company in the small town of Pilar. A group of armed men assaulted their company, asking for money. However, the owner of the company refused to give revolutionary money and the armed men got angry. They burned the company vehicles; confrontations between the security guards and the armed men occurred. Marla, who was pregnant then, was shot by stray bullets. She was rushed to the hospital, but was declared dead on arrival.

Lt. Col. Agustin, who was out of town for a military operation was shattered as he was told of the news. His wife and about to be born child were dead. He silently cried in tears, his agony is unbearable. “What kind of people will spread terror and inflict danger to innocent lives?” he asked himself.

Indeed, it was seven years ago, the wound might heal but the pain will never be forgotten. Lt. Col. Agustin was staring far beyond as he recalled the past. “Hey! Are you okay?” Lt. Col. Salazar asked.

“Yes, I am,” Lt. Col. Agustin replied. “In a week, I will be leaving and will be known was Jerick Macaraeg. I don’t know how long would I be away, but I expect you to behave,” he said with a smile. “Don’t you dare touch any of my things in our quarter,” he added.

“Don’t worry bro, your things are in good hands,” Lt. Col. Salazar said. “Can I at least have your watch, you will not be needing that right?”

“No way!” Lt. Col. Agustin answered.