Chapter III :  BONDS

As the night’s shadowy veil removed its presence from the realm, it was time for the blazing star to ascend once more. Shining brightly upon the land, it signals the beginning of a new day, and urges all the living beings, to rise with glorious purpose. As always, however, there is no rule without exception. In fact, our dear friend exists to serve as the current example, in the moment. 

  Look at him. Sleeping without a care in the world. The entirety of existence could be breaking apart as we speak, and yet, he would still be plunged deep inside the slumber’s warm embrace. In truth, most people fail to remember the last time they had a pleasant respite. Really though, why is it that… no matter how much one rests it never seems to be enough? Is there, maybe, a different reason for this occurrence? Such irregularities… all shrouded in the enigma of the human soul. 

  Since no answer presents itself, let’s return to the matter at hand. 

  As we can clearly see, the little guy is in bed, obliviously drifting away, further from reality. But unfortunately, nothing is meant to last forever. Before he was even able to return comfortably back, his consciousness abruptly got pulled into action. Specifically, another young fellow had caused this abnormal end to his rest. Of course, it’s none other than our beloved sunny boy, Ishmael.

  Ishmael: “(feisty) Wakey wakey, sleepy head! You can’t sleep forever, you know! Come, mother has prepared breakfast. Let’s not keep the others waiting!”

  With a hasty move, Ishmael grabbed Athan by the hand, leading him down to dine. Entering the room, they came in contact with Abraham and Isaac. Seeing the two of them close together, Abraham felt really glad. His son had managed to get accustomed to the newcomer, without much convincing. Though his reservations were still in place, this was undoubtedly, a favorable outcome. The same couldn’t be said about Isaac. The fact that his brother had gotten so friendly with that stranger, did not bring him much satisfaction.

  Ishmael: “(joyous) Good moring, everyone!”  

  Abraham: “And a good moring to you, my child! I see you brought our guest along too.”

  Ishmael: “Sure did!”

  Isaac: “(grumpy) Don’t you ever get tired of being so gleeful? Where do you even find all that energy, this early in the day?