After tying up the eleven bandits to the trees, Polux released their youngest companion, Sirio. He learned that Sirio had also been a captive, enslaved by the bandits for two years. Out of kindness, Polux fed Sirio and gave him the chance to feed the bandits so they wouldn't starve.
Meanwhile, Alhena, the beautiful young lady, was impressed by Polux's strength and cautious nature. Despite Polux's quiet and reserved demeanor, Alhena wouldn't stop teasing him.
Alhena: "Pol, you were amazing earlier. You were like a superhero. But seriously, have you ever thought about coming with me to the town? I'm sure my dad would give you a big reward."
Polux (avoiding her gaze): "I don't need a reward. I just did what was right."
Alhena (smiling): "You're so noble! But Pol, think about it, there's a ten million pesos bounty on the bandits. Wouldn't that be a big help to your family?"
Polux (pausing): "Ten million pesos? That's a huge amount..."
Sirio (interrupting): "Brother Pol, if you get that money, your parents won't have to work so hard anymore. They can finally enjoy life."
Polux thought deeply. He knew Alhena had a point, and above all, the money would be a huge help, not just for him but for his loved ones.
Polux: "Alright, I'll come. But we'll keep an eye on the bandits until the police take them."
The Next Morning
At the first light of dawn, Polux and Alhena prepared to head to the town. They left Sirio behind to watch over the tied-up bandits.
The young man decided to escort the young lady. Though he was nervous since it was his first time leaving home and going far away, he was also anxious because he had disobeyed his mother's instructions. The maiden, on the other hand, was overjoyed as she rode on the horse behind Polux, immediately wrapping her arms around him.
Alhena (while running): "Pol, I still can't believe how fast and strong you were last night. You were like you had special powers. What's your secret?"
Polux: "There's no secret. I'm just used to the hardships of mountain life."
Alhena: "Hmm, if it's just that, why were your moves so precise? They could hardly even touch you. You're like... Superman."
Polux (sighing): "Enough with the questions. We should hurry. I don't want the bandits escaping while we're gone."
Despite Polux's reserved nature, Alhena's persistent teasing gradually made him feel more comfortable around her. He remembered his mother's advice but couldn't stop thinking about the ten million bounty that could change their lives.
At the town
When they arrived in the town, Polux was amazed by what he saw-the towering buildings and the abundance of goods being sold. "The town is so beautiful," he thought to himself.
a battalion of police were already prepared to rescue the kidn*pped young lady. But they were surprised when they saw the mayor's daughter arrive safely . Alhena quickly ran to her father, the mayor who had been deeply worried about her disappearance.
Mayor: "My child! Thank God you're safe. Who rescued you?"
Alhena (smiling and pointing at Polux): "He did, Papa. Pol saved me. Not only that, but he also captured the bandits."
The mayor was shocked and carefully examined Polux from head to toe. At first, he doubted how such a feat was possible, considering the notorious reputation of the heavily armed bandits.
Mayor: "I can't imagine how you managed to save my daughter and capture those bandits. But if what she says is true, we owe you a great debt, Pol. Each bandit has a bounty on their head. I'll reward you accordingly for what you've done."
Polux (calmly): "I didn't do this for the money. But if it will help my family, I'll accept it."
Alhena (smiling): "Papa, he absolutely deserves the full reward!"
Mayor: "Alright. We'll send the police to retrieve the bandits. Pol, don't worry, you'll get the ten million."
A large police force set out, accompanied by the mayor. Alhena insisted on going along as well. She sat beside Polux in the back of the car while the mayor sat in the front.
Polux noticed Alhena constantly glancing and smiling at him. After a while, she held his hand and whispered:
Alhena: "Thank you again."
Polux smiled faintly, though his mind was filled with worry. He had broken the promise he made to his mother. What would happen to his life now?
The Capture of the Bandits
After the police apprehended the bandits, Polux and Sirio were told they needed to go to the police office to give their official statements. The police chief explained that this was necessary to process the paperwork and release the ten million reward to Polux.
Police Chief: "Polux, what you did was significant. Not only is the mayor's daughter safe, but you also captured wanted criminals. But we need your and Sirio's statements to complete the process."
Polux (calmly): "Alright, I'll go. But tomorrow. I have something to take care of at home."
Alhena: "Papa, let Polux be. I'm sure he has other responsibilities. Let's get him tomorrow."
The chief agreed and left Polux for the day. Sirio accompanied the police to give the initial statement, but not before making a promise.
Sirio: "Brother Pol, I'll serve you for the rest of my life. I owe you my life. If you need anything, I'll be here, even if it costs me my own life."
Polux (looking at Sirio): "It's nothing. Alright, tomorrow you'll watch the house while I go to the town."
Sirio: "Yes, Brother. Don't worry."
The next day, the police picked Polux up. Alhena joined them, unable to hide her smiles during the ride. While on the way, she teased Polux, particularly about his bandana and glasses.
Alhena: "Pol, why won't you take off your bandana and glasses? Are you cross-eyed or do you have an eye problem?"
Polux (awkwardly): "No, I just prefer it this way. I'm more comfortable like this."
Alhena: "Hmm... you're so mysterious. But don't worry, no matter how you look, you'll always be my knight in shining armor."
Polux shook his head, but deep inside, he was starting to feel fond of Alhena's playful personality.
At the Mayor's Mansion
In the city, after almost two hours of submitting his statement, Alhena invited Polux to their mansion. She was proud to introduce her "knight in shining armor" to her family.
Alhena: "Mama, this is Pol. He saved me and the whole town from the bandits!"
The mayor and his wife were overjoyed to see Polux. However, they couldn't help but notice how shy and reserved the young man was.
Mayor: "Pol, don't be shy. You're a hero. What do you want to do after this? Is there anything you'd like as a reward? Just say the word."
Polux: "I don't want anything but to keep the peace in our town. The reward is for my parents."
Everyone was impressed by Polux's humility. Despite everything, he remained grounded.
A Trial for Polux's Heart
As time passed, Polux began to notice himself gradually growing closer to Alhena. Meanwhile, Alhena made efforts to know more about the reserved young man. Despite his quiet nature, she could feel his kindness and courage.
Alhena (to herself): "I don't know, but there's something special about Polux. He's not just a hero. It feels like he's the one I've been looking for."
In the Garden
In a serene garden with a pool nearby, Polux and Alhena sat on a marble bench. The surroundings were quiet, with only the soft trickle of water from a fountain.
Alhena: "You know, Pol, sometimes I wonder what it feels like to be free. My whole life... I've been heavily guarded. Before, I only had one or two bodyguards with me. But now, after what happened? It feels like the entire house is filled with security."
Polux: (smiling faintly): "I didn't think someone like you would have this kind of problem. You look happy."
Alhena: (sighing): "Happy? Maybe in the eyes of others. But honestly, I feel trapped in this world. So many rules. My dad decides everything. Sometimes, I want to leave his control. But... I'm scared. I don't know how to live outside."
Polux silently listened, sadness visible in his eyes.
Alhena: "But when I'm with you..." She paused, hesitating to say what was on her mind. "I don't know why, Pol. But you're the only one who makes me feel this safe."
Polux: (quietly): "Maybe you just feel that way because of what happened. It's natural to feel this way."
Alhena: "No, Pol. It's different when I'm with you. But... enough about me. Your turn. I want to hear your story. What's your life like?"
Polux stared into the distance as memories of his parents struggling by the sea filled his mind. He stopped, as if unwilling to share his story.
Polux: "My life? Nothing special. Simple. Honestly, I'm just wondering how my parents are doing... out at sea, working so hard. I worry about them when I don't see them."
Alhena: "You miss them, don't you?"
Polux: (nodding): "Yes. But you're right. I need to take care of the requirements to get the reward. Once I have the money, our lives will change."
Alhena fell silent, sipping her drink, her cheeks slightly flushed. She leaned closer to Polux and smiled.
Alhena: "Polux, can I ask you for a favor?"
Polux: (shrugging): "What is it?"
Alhena: "Take off your glasses. I want to see your full face."
Polux: (hesitant): "W-What? Why?"
Alhena: "Come on, just this once. I promise I won't tell anyone."
Polux allowed Alhena to remove his glasses. When she saw his soft face and stunning blue eyes, she couldn't help but stare in awe.
Alhena: "Your eyes are beautiful. Why do you hide them?"
She slowly leaned forward and kissed Polux on the lips. Surprised, Polux couldn't pull away. Instead, he returned the kiss. He felt his heart racing, as if he was slowly falling for her.
Polux: (pulling back slightly): "You didn't have to do that..."
Alhena: "It's not because of gratitude, Pol. But I want you
Polux sat silently, unsure of what to say after such a heartfelt moment. The young woman held his hand, gazed into his eyes, and said, "Pol, I've never felt this way before. You're my first kiss, and I'm ready to give everything just to know you better. Maybe you're my destiny."
They both hold hands while the young lady lays her face on the young man's shoulder
That night felt even more special for both of them. As time passed, they felt an even deeper connection with each other.
Polux: "Do you want to see my hair?"
Gently, Polux removed his bandanna, revealing his long, white hair, shimmering under the moonlight. The young woman gasped, stunned by what she saw.
Young Woman: "Your hair is so beautiful... It's like something out of a fairy tale. Oh My god! Pol, I don't understand, but I've fallen for you. I don't want to lose you. I'm ready to live in the mountains with you."
Polux smiled at her words but quickly remembered his responsibilities.
Polux: "Thank you, but that's not necessary. Once I've claimed the reward, we can afford to buy a house here in town. But I need to leave for now... I have to check on my family and make sure they're okay."
Polux stood and said his farewells. Each step he took out of the young woman's home seemed heavy.