THE TREES SPEAK

My name is Vaztik, and I come from the Yellow World. Everyone says that the poorest people on this planet live there, but I don't see it that way. Everyone lives happily according to the way they live.  

In my opinion, we, the people from the Yellow World, don’t lack anything, we are the happiest indeed. We like to grow our own food, and it is worth mentioning that there’s not a comparable place with such a harvest like the one we have here.

The only thing you have to take care of is what you sow, until it is ready for harvest. It is as if the crops magically grow.

Security is important, our lands are protected by great walls that were built by our ancestors, in order to stop the invasions from the Red World and the Blue World.

With those walls up, not a theft could be committed. It was not surprising, since everyone wanted to have it all when they saw the size of the fruits we sowed here. No matter what was planted, everything grew faster than normal, to the point that several crops had to be carried by more than one person. 

This was protected by the great work of our ancestors, who intelligently, against all odds, sought a way to build the wall. They wisely established trade treaties with the neighboring worlds, acquiring what they needed. In this way, by exchanging special foods, they obtained the raw materials to build a solid wall.

The Red World gave us the necessary cement and the Blue World gave us the extra water and the big stones. Without imagining it, they contributed to the future of our beloved Yellow World. 

This went on for many years, until spies from the Red World, looking for the secret of such abundant special food, realized that the Yellow World had a great security wall and, before they could finish the entrance area, filled with envy, they joined with the Blue World to conquer the Yellow World.

The strength of both Worlds combined was so great that it forced the ancestors to activate a power that would hide the wall, preventing destruction. 

This special power was found deep in a great well and has been passed down from generation to generation protecting them all. This power looked like a small, but very bright and beautiful sponge. Everyone who saw it was dazzled by its beauty and colors.

Everyone took care of it and it continued that way until, an unexpected day, a little boy named Victoriano, caused the sponge to grow and grow until it became immense. Everyone was surprised to see how much they had grown.

The great leader Hunder, well-known in that World for his agility with the sword and in hand-to-hand combat, approached the great sponge to see what was happening. But, like the others, he did not understand why this had happened, he just stared in amazement. Whoever it was, he knew this had not been a fluke.

When Leader Hunder was informed about Leader Victoriano, he went to him to question him and ask him what happened. “Sir, I just squeezed the sponge with all my might and, as it exploded, its glow began to grow,” Victoriano said. 

“Interesting, young man, everything happens for a reason,” Hunder replied, placing his hand on the boy's shoulder. 

The great leader took his leave and returned to the great wall of power and, touching it with his hand, used a power that brought it back to normal.

Everyone was surprised to see how Hunder took the power sponge, he, without saying anything, went to the front of the great wall made of stone and cement, accompanied by his warriors. 

Minutes later, a large crowd of them began to appear in the distance, heading towards the city. 

In the Yellow World, people were surprised to see the number of warriors coming towards them. They were warriors from both worlds.

Those from the Blue and Red Worlds had sent their troops to destroy everything. Many in the Yellow World could see the fear and hopelessness in their eyes. With such a large army, it was very likely that the Yellow World would be destroyed.

From far away you could hear the noise of the wolves and salamanders that the army had, they looked terrible and furious. They could also be seen using their powers to intimidate. Others transformed themselves into animals to be able to move and run faster. 

It is worth mentioning that the warriors of our Yellow World were also agile and wise, we also have unique and special techniques, but to stop the army of two Worlds you need much more than that.

The enemies continued to approach at a steady and consistent pace and our leader Hunder was undeterred. He was convinced that, somehow or other, the power sponge would do the trick. 

Very calmly, he sent us all to stay behind the wall. As the warriors drew closer, Hunder confirmed that both Worlds had united against them.

Unquestionably, they wanted to keep everything for themselves.

Suddenly, the wolves began to howl very loudly, the noise was so loud that it seemed to echo all over the place.

I was scared, but when I tried to run, my mother grabbed me out of nowhere and, while hugging me, said whispering to my ear, “Don't worry, everything will be fine, don't lose hope...” Her voice was beautiful.

 My mother was very protective and did everything in her power to make sure nothing would hurt me. She kept telling me that she saw something special in my eyes and that, someday, I would realize that.

As a child, I never knew why she said that, but now that I'm older, I can understand. 

I've realized that I can do things that other people can't do. 

After her hug, I still felt uncomfortable, as my friends' faces reflected not peace but terror and failure. I think they, like me, knew that if the sponge didn't work, it would be the end.

When the enemies were closer, they began to group together to fight. 

Hunder stood in the middle of the wall area that was not yet complete, looking very upset. He squeezed and shook the sponge, but nothing happened, no protective barrier appeared. 

Nothing seemed to work.

Hunder looked back and saw that the Yellow World warriors were also ready to fight. This gave him courage, but, at the same time, he was worried when he saw how many friends were there ready to defend his World, for he knew how powerful they were. 

The great leader took courage by throwing the sponge to the ground, took out two swords and a shield around it created by his power. 

Witnessing all this was intimidating. It seemed as if Hunder was going to take them all on by himself. 

Suddenly, I heard the echo of a voice slowly saying to me. “Don't be afraid, everything will be fine.” It was a voice that came as a whisper and then went away. 

It wasn't the first time I heard it, I didn't know where it came from, but it always told me things.

The enemies were enraged at the sight of the swords, gave a war cry and ran towards him. Hunder was an impeccable warrior and, despite the years, he seemed not to age. 

Suddenly, a great explosion of light shone in front of the great leader and his enemies. When the light was gone, everyone realized that it had been caused by the sponge.

It had grown and, in doing so, covered the entire open space of the stone wall with its power, separating the Yellow World from its enemies. 

The leader Hunder, seeing this with the swords still in his hands, began to laugh loudly and so did all the people. They felt safe thanks to the protective power of the sponge.

It was so powerful, that it continued to grow to the point of covering the entire Yellow World with a protective layer.

It brought peace, security and independence.

It covered and protected us as a creator does his creation. I know that the Almighty watched over us from above, for if it were not so, that day would have been the last day of the Yellow World.

No matter how brave and strong our warriors are, the enemies were three times our number and weaponry.

Everyone shouted for joy at the sight of the leader Hunder raising his swords in victory. Outside, they could hear the shouts of attack from both armies throwing and hitting the power barrier, but from inside, they could see that it was invincible.

Hunder and the others put all the people in order. Everyone made rounds to make sure the place was covered and protected.

The Yellow World leaders joined in the surveillance, but everything seemed to be fine. After a while, the others went home.

My parents were walking next to me when I heard the whisper again, but, as I walked, I heard it louder. They, imagining nothing, continued walking and talking to the neighbors.

When I reached an area, the rustling became so loud that I stopped to look where it was coming from. It was at that moment that, to my surprise, I saw a tree smiling at me and saying, “I told you everything would be okay.” 

I just stood there looking at the tree in disbelief, but when I saw its smile, I understood that there was nothing to be afraid of and I reached out my hand to take one of its leaves and to my surprise, it disappeared as if it had never been there.

I am sure it was real. This story is real, but every time I share it, no one believes me. I know that, at the time, I was just a child, but I am sure of what I saw and heard. 

What I do know is that somehow, I can do something that others don't think is possible. I always remember my mother seeing something special in me, long before I could see it.

I just wish she would have told me how to use it.

As the years passed, each world distanced itself from the other by race. Power had driven them apart. 

The power of their hatred dominated them and they lost the importance of love, forgiveness and sharing. 

At first glance, everyone seemed to be fine on their own, but in reality they were not. Everyone pretended what they didn't have.

In the Red World, they pretended that wealth and power made them happy, but they were not. It was the same for the Blue World. 

Both believed they were better than others, they thought their material things made them better. 

The Yellow World was the poorest among them and the most despised as well. 

Be that as it may, they all lacked something special. They needed someone to stop and listen instead of demanding.

The Yellow World does not shine for its luxuries, but it does shine for the value they all place on friendship and companionship. Loyalty is very important to them.

The way the people of the Yellow World appreciated these values infuriated the other worlds because, according to them, they were unimportant. 

They also hated them for having possession of the great protective power, which they called the protection of light.

In spite of everything, there was one thing that the three worlds had in common. They all desired the freedom of their souls and none were completely happy with what they had. They always wanted to have more. 

One day the young Vatick, together with her friend Viko, a young blonde with green eyes, was inside the great forest. They were walking together.

Vaztik was walking with silver balls in her yellow and black gloves, very focused on what was going on around her. She was so focused, that she could hear even the slightest sound, even her friend's, which didn't bother her.

They kept walking, until they reached a hill. Vaztik stopped for a few seconds, but then continued dodging some dry branches that were in the place.

Until, suddenly, she covered her face with something silver-colored and, to Viko's surprise, her friend disappeared. He understood what was happening and hurried to disappear as well. 

Now only the footprints they both left as they walked could be seen. With each step, they made sure that no one saw what they were trying to do.

They continued on to the back wall of the large forest, seeing nothing. 

They moved so cautiously, that not even some wolves that were hiding, eating from the harvest, noticed that they were there.

Viko approached Vaztik and said softly in her ear, “What do we do? If we don't do something, they will eat everything.”

“Don't exaggerate, they're just babies, they're hungry. They won't eat everything, just until they're full,” her friend replied. 

“Well, if you say so, anyway, you're the boss,” Viko said. 

“Don't say that, you know I don't like it when you call me the boss. Can't you just enjoy how happy they look?” replied Vaztik. 

“Of course they are happy, I would be too with such a great feast, especially since those from their world eat food with preservatives and chemicals, not like this fresh food we have,” said Viko. 

“Well good of you to say so, put yourself in their shoes and let them eat a while longer. They will surely leave soon,” Vaztik assured. 

“Okay, don't get mad at me and let's go on,” Viko replied, sticking out his tongue.

They both stared at the Blue World wolves, who ate nonchalantly as if this was their home, as if they had forgotten that they were in a world not their own.

However, the larger wolves kept watch like soldiers. They knew that any mistake could cost them trouble with the Yellow World. 

Suddenly, Vaztik heard a very familiar noise and, approaching her friend, said, “Come on, you know what that means, we can't let them get caught.” 

“As you say, friend,” Viko replied and they both started walking together quickly.

Unseen, they reached the area where they knew the Yellow World hunters were. 

“You know what to do, Viko,” said Vaztik. 

“I know, I know, I'm not going to screw it up. On the count of three I throw the iron balls to the right side and you to the left side,” Viko replied. 

“Very well, so the little wolves will have a chance to escape,” assured Vaztik, getting into position. 

They stood waiting for the right moment to put their plan into action. No one knew they did these things and they were glad of it. 

They even named their group, “those who help.” A title they both kept secret. 

Everything seemed calm, but Vaztik knew that with each passing second, the hunters would be closer to the wolves. 

She counted to three in a low voice and they both threw the iron balls, which, in the air, split into many smaller spheres falling all over the place. 

As the hunters approached the spheres, they perceived little noises that were subtle to the human ear but too loud for the wolves, and so they would run away from the place.

The hunters realized that the wolves had run away and tried to catch them, but it was too late, they could not do it.

The leader of the hunters named Bolo, looking all around, said in frustration, “No way, did they manage to escape again?” He kept watching carefully to see if he saw anyone, but there were only his companions and the wolves running in the distance.

Bolo, however, couldn't see anything. Vaztik knew the hunter leader's abilities very well, so no matter how much he searched and checked, both youngsters with the help of their powers, were hidden from his sight.

Bolo, annoyed, grabbed his hunting weapons, which were two sticks and after putting on special goggles, started to look for where the wolves had gone. 

Try as they might, they were unable to catch any of them, but at least Bolo found where they had escaped. 

At the far end of the wall, there was a small gap. 

When the leader of the hunters realized this, he ran out and threw his two special sticks, blocking the hole in the wall and scaring one of the little wolves there.

The animal tried to get out but the sticks wouldn't let it, and Bolo, seeing that it couldn't escape, began to shout, “We caught one! Let's teach it a lesson so the others won't get in!” 

The leader of the hunters walked slowly towards the little wolf laughing.

“Oh no, what do we do now, Vaztik?” asked Viko in a low-down voice. 

“We have to help him.” 

“What! No, we can't, they'll find out we're here and we'll be in trouble,” said Viko, worried. 

“But...?” asked Vaztik. 

“But nothing, friend, you know well how risky it would be to do something like that,” his friend replied. 

She knew he was right so she said nothing more, but, with every step Bolo took, Vaztik became sadder. Viko, seeing her, felt that way too.

All the hunters were getting closer, when, suddenly, one of the bigger wolves, stuck his head in the middle of the sticks and, grabbing the little wolf by the collar, began to pull him to try to cross to the other side.

“No, no, bad wolf. Run, they're getting away from us!” Bolo shouted hysterically. 

The hunters rushed faster, but, just as they were about to grab the little wolf, the bigger one pulled him harder across the gap and managed to escape. 

“No way!” shouted Bolo even louder than before. He is a big man, with a dark complexion and curly hair. Seeing him upset was very scary.

Vaztik got so excited, she gave a shout of joy. Viko covered her mouth with his hand, but it was too late, Bolo had already heard her. “Don't worry, I knew all this must be your doing. Someday I'll find you and you'll pay for them all,” Bolo shouted again. The other hunters had not heard Vaztik, so they did not understand who their leader was talking to.

Minutes later, Bolo gave the order and they all headed back to the village, while Vaztik and Viko returned the way they had come.

The day began with the noises that heralded the start of a special day. 

Vaztik fell out of bed startled by the noise, realized it was coming from the Bulls Without Borders and got dressed very quickly. 

Suddenly, she heard her friend Viko's voice shouting to her through the window, “Vaztik, are you still here?” 

Her friend opened the window and replied, “Why didn't you remind me it was today?”

But before Viko could answer, Vaztik ran out and, as she ran through the door of the house, she said to her friend, “Let's go, it's late,” and continued running leaving him behind. 

“Hey, you're going too fast!” shouted Viko trying to catch up with her, but she didn't stop. 

“Come on, don't be slow, show me what you've got.” 

They were not the only ones, everywhere there were people running, some were walking, others were on horseback or in carriages, but all were heading to the great coliseum of the Yellow World.

Before the three worlds separated, the coliseum was known as the place where events that encouraged peace and fellowship were held.

Those events were held every year, even in tense times, but, after the great war, plus the great earthquake, the coliseum grounds were left on the borders of the Yellow World. From there one could see part of the Blue World and the heights of the Red World.

“Vaztik, wait for me!” shouted Viko, but she disappeared winking at him.

He knew what this meant, his friend wasn't going to let anyone running around the place, get there before her.

Suddenly, a cloud of smoke began to be seen moving at full speed. Vaztik, seeing that there was a chariot full of fruit, blocked the bridge and rushed to jump on top of the chariot. 

Smoke descended and the whole place was covered. Those who ran could not see anything, only the screams of the people in the chariot could be heard.

Vaztik continued to run, until suddenly she heard noises in the water in the distance. The other people running without being able to see, fell into the water and others stumbled over the fruits making a trail all over the place.

Suddenly, Vaztik heard Viko: “That was great, you almost caught me.” 

“You still won't catch me,” she replied without letting him run.

This was no surprise, for she well knew that, all of them in some way or another, had unique abilities. The one thing they had in common was their desire to show off their talents.

What Vaztik did not know was that the great leader Hunder was watching her closely. He and his mystical friend named Artik, sensed that there was something special about her.

Artik, seeing what had happened on the bridge, approached Hunder and asked, “What's with all the commotion?”

“I'm sure it had to have been her, I told you that girl will win this year,” Hunder replied. 

“I don't know, I think she still has a way to go. Besides, nobody wins on their first time.” 

“We'll see about that, come on,” Hunder said and they both disappeared.

Seconds later they reappeared in their rightful place inside the large coliseum, which was packed with people, but no one could tell them apart.

Most of them were always impressed with the great barrier of energy that protected the airs of the place, while the others were watching to see who would enter the competition.

That barrier was important because, being so close to the other worlds, there was always the danger of them launching something, especially the Red World, due to the height of its mountains. 

This was one of the disadvantages that the Yellow World had, since it was below the other worlds. On the other hand, another of the functions of that barrier was to block the view of the curious, since, from there, only a great glow could be seen covering everything.

“Just look how full this place is. No matter how much time passes, everyone still loves the games,” exclaimed Hunder. 

“That's right, I'd be surprised to see the place empty,” Artik added. 

“Look, who's here, now that's unusual,” said Hunder pointing to a spot. 

“Gonder here? Now that's surprising, he never leaves his house, what would he come here to do?” asked Artik. 

“Good question, but I think we're about to find out. Look,” said Hunder. 

“Isn't that one...?” asked Artik, but was interrupted by his friend. 

“That same one, let's see what's going on,” and they both stood at attention. 

“Miss, here's what you asked for,” said Gonder. 

“Oh, that's great, I thought you wouldn't bring it, since you're a scientist, you keep busy,” Vaztik replied. 

“You should stop listening to what people say. I'm a scientist and I'll keep busy, but I'm a man of my word. So, if I tell you I'll come, I will, but if I tell you no, it's no,” Gonder assured him, passing him two vials of orange liquid.

Vaztik hurried and strapped them into pouches at her waist. “Thank you, sir. As I told you before, I know you want to give them to me, but I will find a way to repay you for this great favor,” she said. 

Just then Viko arrived, greeted Gonder and said to her friend, “They are calling the competitors.” 

“Then I'd better find a good seat,” Gonder said. 

“I didn't expect that,” Vaztik replied in surprise. 

“It is, so you'd better show everyone that you're the best,” Gonder assured, as he left to find a chair.

Vaztik excitedly went to her assigned area, from where she could see the great mountain of the Red World and the hills of the Blue World. 

With that view, she remembered those times when the three worlds participated together in these games in peace and harmony. It was certainly an opportunity where each world would peacefully showcase its strengths to the others.

There was nothing like the days when Vaztik was a child and would sneak away to watch every detail of the games. She remembers well the last year they were the Toros sin Frontera. It was the year of the great earthquake that separated the land. It was the same year that, instead of sharing, they began to fight trying to see who could controlled everything. The year in which many friends became enemies. A year very difficult to forget.

Remembering the past made the young Vaztik very sad. Recovering her spirits, she went to the starting place, where she could see the path and various obstacles of the race. Only the one who reached the end and crossed the great wall of fire would win.

But she was more concerned about the hidden obstacles along the way, as they were designed to surprise anyone who came across them. 

All eyes were on Vaztik, for it was the first time a girl had dared to participate in these games. Many of the men, seeing her riding her big bull, laughed and made comments among themselves.

So much laughter would not be in vain. Vaztik was young and, riding her bull, she looked like a child, for the bulls looked bigger than she was. But she didn't mind the danger, if others could do it, so could she.

Vaztik was no fool. She had gone with protective clothing and a helmet that, though small, was very sturdy. 

Suddenly, the whole crowd began to shout, “Race! Race! Race! Race!” Everyone was waiting for the central tower to give the official announcements. 

“Are you ready? I know you'll do great, so stay calm, everything will be fine,” Vaztik said quietly to herself.

In the distance, she saw her friend and scientist Gonder waving at her. Seeing them gave her a lot of encouragement and helped calm her nerves. 

Everything was about to begin. In a few minutes the great race of the Bulls Without Borders would begin.

While this was going on, Vaztik's parents were arguing about her. It was no wonder, for their daughter was increasingly overstepping the boundaries. Every single thing she did, surpassed her parents' imagination.

“I don't know how this girl does it, but she sure must be on her way to the races by now,” the father said to his wife.

“Poto, you know she's a strong young lady, she came out just like you,” the mother replied.

“Don't be like that, Berla. That girl has to understand what 'no' means.” Why did you let her go to that race? The Bulls Without Borders race is very dangerous,” Poto said.

“You know well, if she's a strong, bold girl, it's because she imitates you. She does everything she sees in you, so don't blame me,” Berla replied staring at him.

“But, but...” said Poto and his wife interrupted him saying: 

“But nothing, leave things alone and support her. A father should always support his children. I'd rather give her permission and not let her run away to do it on the sly. That's what she likes, what she chose.”

Poto was silent, thinking about what his wife had just told him. They both continued cleaning.

Minutes later, Vaztik's father finished cleaning a part and said to his wife, “I know we should support her in everything, but don't you think it's dangerous? You know they are not normal bulls, they are the ones without Borders, love. Do you remember why they call them that? There's no stopping them. So just the thought of our daughter being in front of them worries me and it should worry you too.”

Berla continued to draw milk from one of the cows, but her husband's words had unsettled her. Poto set about cleaning the dirt from several animals, when suddenly, his best friend entered the barn. Both husbands seeing him, greeted him from a distance so as not to make him dirty.

“But what are you still doing here? Didn't you hear the alert? If you don't hurry, you'll miss the race,” said Kokito.

Poto and Berla looked at each other and Kokito, seeing that they did nothing, continued, “Well, it's your loss. I wouldn't miss seeing the bravery of my dear Vaztik, she is strong and good at what she does. You'll see she'll surprise you all and leave you with your mouths open.” 

Kokito came out of the stable as if to leave, to see what his friends would do. Until, suddenly, Berla stood up and, taking off her gloves, grabbed a rag to wipe herself. “Wait for me, I'll go too. The stable can wait,” said Vaztik's mother.

Poto stood alone in the middle of the barn, taking off his gloves and looking around at the cows, until suddenly one of them started mooing non-stop: “All right! Shut up, you guys win,” Poto said coming out of the stable and yelling at his wife and his friend. “Hey, wait for me!” he continued yelling until they both stopped.

Berla, hearing her husband, asked Kokito, “Shall we wait for him or shall we go on?”

Kokito laughing replied, “You know my friend is stubborn, but sometimes, we are all acting the same way. Don't be mean, let's wait for him.”

“I'm pretty sure you just want him to come so he can help us with his power to get here on time and have a good seat in the coliseum,” Berla replied staring at him.

“How did you guess? But I also like him to come, because there is nothing that gladdens a daughter's heart more, than her daddy's support,” said Kokito.

“So what, my support doesn't even count?” asked Berla offended.

“It's not that, your support she already has, as I'm sure you gave her permission to compete,” clarified Kokito laughing.

Before Berla could answer, Poto came to her side saying, “You guys win, I also want to support the girl.”

“Well, say no more, let's go to the big race,” Kokito replied, slipping his arm around the shoulders of Vaztik's parents.

Poto's right hand began to circle, creating a small wave of air and dust that, little by little, enveloped the three of them. When they were completely covered, the wind dissipated and they disappeared.

This was very common, people usually used their powers to reach their destinations quickly.

The Yellow World might not have raw materials to build the same as the other worlds, but they had some things, especially their powers.

It was rare to be surprised by any of them, but what Vaztik would learn was that, in a world full of powers and people with unique abilities, there was still room for amazing and unexpected things. 

Soon life would surprise her by showing her why she always felt joyful when she was near trees.

After a while, her parents appeared near the place, went inside and got a good seat. 

“I don't see her, love,” Berla said referring to her daughter.

“She must be among the participants,” Poto replied looking for her with his eyes.

“Don't worry, in a moment the announcements will begin and, surely, we will see her,” said Kokito sitting down.

Poto and Berla sat next to him, waiting for the event to begin.

The crowd screamed with excitement, waiting for the start of the great Toros sin Fronteras competition, but those who screamed the loudest were the loyal fans of this game.

Year after year, they came to see how the participants defeated and destroyed every obstacle placed around the coliseum. With every dry tree wall or stone destroyed, the fans would get so excited that, at times, some of them would run out onto the field. For that reason, there were better security measures that year.

Dry trees and stones were not the only obstacles, but they were among the most favored because of the large explosions they caused.

Each one was placed in specific locations, in order to make it difficult to destroy them and advance in the competition, especially those in the highest area of the coliseum.

One of the most complicated areas was the three bridges. There were two at the corners and one in the center. They were so difficult to cross that many would not go near them. Only a young man named Leña was able to destroy and pass through that area, accumulating points. 

Another very dangerous area were the tunnels, as they were not only dark, but unpredictable. Most of those who entered could not get out on their own and were eliminated.

The area near the center was full of easy spots, but it was also the area where most of the participants were fighting for more points.

Vaztik, riding her bull, stood looking around the coliseum. “Don't worry, little buddy. Everything will be all right,” she told the animal, as she stroked him.

And she wasn't lying, for a long time she was analyzing the best strategy. There was no detail she hadn't thought of. She would do anything to win, though, and as bold as she was, Vaztik was no fool. To win, she needed to be wise and focused. 

But most of all, she needed to follow this Leña guy closely, learning everything he did.

In the distance, her mother saw her, grabbed her husband and pointed to her daughter saying excitedly, “Look over there! There's the girl!” 

“I see, but let go of me or you'll knock me off my chair,” Poto replied letting go.

“Don't be dramatic. Look how strong and confident she looks,” Berla said.

“It's true, I don't remember the last time I saw her like that,” added Poto.

“I do, but if I remember, don't laugh,” said his friend Kokito.

Poto heard him and nod at him as he watched what her daughter was doing.

Minutes later, all the participants took their places and, after a big flash of light in the sky, the Bulls Without Borders race began. The crowd screamed and stood up in their seats.

Poto was following his daughter with his eyes, when suddenly, someone tried to knock her down and she dodged it by using her body to break one of the obstacles. 

Vaztik's father smiled and said quietly, “Where there's the stick, there's the splinter.”

Berla heard him and laughed and said, “First, you didn't want to come and now look at you.”

“I don't blame him Poto. That trick was great and it got her some points too. She is really like you” Kokito added.

“You can't deny it came out just like you,” Berla asserted.

“Come on, Vaztik! I know you'll manage to win,” shouted Kokito.

“Come on, daughter! Finish them all off! Show them what family you come from!” added Poto loudly.

Berla looked at him with a smile, touched to see that her husband had finally accepted his daughter's decision and was supporting her in the sport he also loved.

Suddenly, flames of fire shot out, startling Vaztik, but she managed to dodge them in time. She smashed some stones that fell all over the place, hitting other runners who were following close behind. 

On the other side, streams of water could be seen knocking down several participants. With each hit or fall, the crowd screamed with excitement.

A stream of water hit one of the bulls and the jet of water also hit the group where Vaztik was standing, but, surprisingly she was able to hold on tight.

The blow was so great that most of those in the stands were silent waiting to see what would happen.

The gush of water created a current that seemed as if the river had gone out of its flow. For a few seconds, everyone was enveloped by the water.

Everyone stood up from their seats expecting the worst. Gradually, some of the participants were seen to be tossed about, swept away by the current. 

When the waves subsided, Vaztik's parents screamed with excitement as they saw her holding on tightly to her bull, which was also very strong.

Little by little, the animal continued to move forward. The coliseum roared loudly at the sight of Vaztik settling in better, she raised her hand and gave a loud shout, as if she was in a battle.

Everyone shouted along with her. In a matter of minutes, she had become a crowd favorite.

Leña, who was standing at the center bridge, noticed that the screams were not for him, but for Vaztik. He watched her on her feet after that big hit.

“Impressive, but don't think you can beat me. There's still a long way to go,” Firewood said quietly.

Suddenly, he dodged a whirlwind of water and fire and knocked down two very large rocks like they were nothing.

Vaztik, seeing this, remembered what she had heard about the bridges and, turning around, stood analyzing how she could get on the bridge without being caught.

At that moment, the sky glowed yellow, announcing that the competition was almost over. 

She looked at the score and young Leña was 50 points ahead of everyone. Only she was close. She needed 30 points to beat him.

In the distance, her father was watching her and realized what was happening. “Oh no, Vaztik,” said Poto.

“Oh no, what?” asked Berla.

“Vaztik is going into the tunnels,” replied Poto.

“Why do you say that?” asked Kokito.

“Look at the score, she's in second place, she needs at least 30 points to come in first place. That's not counting Leña making any points,” explained Vaztik's father.

“Leña? That one is already celebrating,” Kokito assured.

“And that's why Vaztik will go to the tunnels. Not only are there more points there, but by the time Leña figures it out, he'll already have a hard time getting past her,” Poto added.

The three of them stared at Vaztik, waiting to see what she would do. She gave her bull a tight hug and glanced around.

At that moment, she saw that Hunder and Gonder were staring at her and she also saw her parents, especially Poto, who was looking at her very intently. Her concerned father gave her an approving smile and Vaztik was very excited, knowing that her father supported her, filled her with emotion.

She wouldn't let anything stop her from showing everyone that talent is in the person and not in the gender. Men and women are equally capable of doing anything. 

Everyone stared at where Vaztik was going.

Suddenly one of the columns collapsed, being hit by one of the bulls, and when its owner fell down, the animal ran all over the place.

Vaztik tightened her grip on her bull, and the bull, giving a loud grunt, leapt up, leaping into one of the entrances of the place.

In the blink of an eye, Vaztik was in darkness. The place was strange, but she didn't care. She just had to hurry and destroy the obstacles to collect more points.

In the distance she could hear everyone's screams, but what alerted her, were the screams coming from the darkness. Be that as it may, she had to do something and soon, for she knew that with every step they took, they might crash or worse, be knocked down by one of the obstacles.

The bull gave another grunt and that reminded Vaztik what she had to do. She took the bull's collar and with her hand, began rubbing some spheres she had there. 

In a matter of seconds, the bull's collar lit up and a large part of the animal was illuminated. This happened just in time, for when Vaztik regained her sight, she found some branches hanging from the ceiling.

Without thinking, she ducked to one side of the bull, holding on with one hand, to dodge the branches.

“Amazing, little bull, you are very strong,” said Vaztik excitedly.

But the excitement didn't last long, as the path began to get narrower and narrower, to the point that, the spikes on the wall, were closer and closer to the two of them. 

Vaztik had to do something and fast, otherwise the spikes would cut her to pieces, for she did not have the skin of a bull. She reacted in time and tightly grabbed the reins of the bull, moving away from the barbs. 

The young woman was destroying everything in her path. From time to time, she saw the silhouettes or shadows of other runners and, on occasion, she dodged several bulls running without an owner.

But what surprised her most was that after a while, without meeting anyone, she arrived at a place where everything was destroyed.

Vaztik was left wondering how someone had gotten there, if she had barely made it. 

“Damn, man. I guess they left us nothing to destroy. Someone beat us to the punch,” she said to her bull, but the bull ignored her, instead, to her surprise, she began to run from side to side. She was running so fast that, if Vaztik didn't hold on tightly, she might fall. 

“Come on, little bull, what are you looking for, can't you see this place is empty? There's nothing left to break,” Vaztik assured, but the bull paid no attention to her.

It continued circling uncontrollably, until, suddenly, it gave a great grunt and ran off, leaping over some rocks that were on the ground. 

Vaztik caught herself well, but after falling to the other side, she gave a yelp that did that along with the steps her bull took as he ran. She didn't know what was going on, but her bull did.

“Hey, what are you doing?” she asked seeing him running focused in one direction only.

Vaztik started to look at what the bull was looking for, when she was surprised by two bulls that, out of nowhere positioned themselves next to her. She almost lost her balance, but her bull, sensing her, gave a little jump, making her fall close to his collar.

This gave Vaztik time to get a good grip and realize who almost knocked her down. 

It was Firewood, who was laughing. “Did you think I'd get careless?” he shouted, but she said nothing.

Vaztik was looking for a way to escape from both bulls surrounding her. On the other side, she watched as the leader of the hunters, enjoyed what was happening.

Bolo and Leña had her trapped and she knew it, she had to do something and soon.

“There are no more points left, so you might as well give up. There's no way you can beat me,” Leña shouted, as Bolo laughed out loud.

The boy was right, the score put him ahead by 20 points over Bolo and 19 points over Vaztik.

Bolo tried to knock her down, but his bull stumbled a bit on some rocks on the ground and Vaztik took advantage to overtake them.

She was in the lead, but she had them both very close. Outside, the crowd was watching the images on a large hologram floating above the colosseum.

The area where Vaztik, Bolo and Leña were was unusual. No one knew what had happened to them.

Until, suddenly, a huge explosion created a huge cloud of smoke. When it cleared, everyone began to shout euphorically.

“Look, my love, it's Vaztik and she's in the lead!” shouted Poto.

Berla stared as her daughter moved from side to side, dodging the large chunks of stone, knocked down by the other runners on the ground.

“Hey, stop it, it's all over now,” shouted Firewood, but Vaztik paid no attention to him.

Her gaze was in search of any points she could get in those last minutes of competition.

All seemed lost, until, suddenly, the young woman spun to her left, hitting Leña. He and Bolo did the same, but Vaztik took more advantage.

Viko, realizing what her friend was planning, ran out to talk her out of it, but it was in vain, because she wasn't looking at anyone, her eyes were fixed on her target.

Vaztik had found what she needed, but it wouldn't be easy.

“No way! Young Vaztik is heading towards the center and, in just seconds, anything can happen. Will she go for the last monument?” said the game commentator and everyone in the coliseum became quiet and attentive.

But it wasn't just anything, for the last monument was a pillar located at the top of the great coliseum.

They called it “the last,” for anyone who attempted it would be their last entry in the competition.

If the climb didn't finish her off, the fall would.

But Vaztik didn't mind the risk. The last climb could win her the race, and that was what she wanted.

The surrounding obstacles had been destroyed, but not the ones at the top. Leña didn't destroy them because no one would be crazy or foolish enough to climb that area.

“Stop! Stop! You're going to get us disqualified,” Leña yelled at Vaztik, but she convinced herself that he was only yelling because he was afraid of losing. It was all or nothing.

As he climbed up, Leña saw in the distance what he had feared so much. In the center, there were dozens of fiery rainbows. One hit from them and he would end up in the infirmary.

But it was too late to turn back now. The public embarrassment of surrendering to a girl outweighed the fear.

Despite the excitement, the tension kept them all on edge. 

Vaztik dodged the first bands of fire and, seconds later, Leña and Bolo did the same. 

With each band of fire they dodged, the heat increased and the bulls became more enraged, making controlling them a difficult task.

With each ring they passed through, the more difficult it became to pass through the next one.

After a while, to everyone's surprise, Vaztik, Leña and Bolo managed to get through all the rings and entered the big tower in the center.

Vaztik's parents looked at each other worriedly, but no one could do anything. Inside the big tower, they could only hear the noises of destruction and see that the dots of each were rising.

Everyone had to wait to see who would come out of the top of the great tower.

From time to time, as they climbed, some explosions would throw dust over the sides of the tower. With each explosion, sighs could be heard in the crowd.

After a silence that seemed to last forever, there was a huge explosion of rocks and dust at the top of the tower.

Suddenly, through the smoke, Vaztik, Leña and Bolo appeared at full speed, side by side. They were heading towards the center where the last great monument was waiting for them.

Everyone, upon seeing them, stood up and started shouting excitedly, waiting to see who would win the great race of the Bulls without Borders. 

The next day, a special meeting was called.

The leaders of the Yellow World were called to assess a major problem. The meeting place was hidden in a large rock in the center of the forest. Tall pine trees kept the place hidden from plain sight.

Inside that rock, everything was very beautiful. A water fountain came out of the ground. 

Each leader had large seats made of stone, they were modified and decorated to their liking.

The whole place was very similar to the public court, where anyone from the village could go to solve a social problem.

The only difference was that, in this place, they did not judge minor matters, but dealt with things on a national level.

The leader of the hunters was about to report something, when Vaztik's parents entered the room.

Bolo, somewhat confused, stared at them without their noticing. Everyone was silent, waiting for them to speak. But Bolo was only watching because he wanted to know what the scientist Gonder was doing with the girl's parents.

Suddenly, everyone stood up to greet several of the leaders who had not yet arrived at the meeting. But, to Bolo's surprise, the young Vaztik came in chatting with one of them.

He, not knowing what was going on, became very concerned, for he thought the young woman was giving him complaints about what happened in the race, or something about the camps or whatever else the two of them had been at odds over.

Vaztik turned away from the leaders and went to sit with her parents and the scientist.

She, realizing that Bolo was looking at her, stared at him as well. She didn't know what her hunting enemy would be up to, but she could sense it.

Leader Hunder, seeing that everyone was in their assigned places, said, “Welcome, comrades. Now that we are all here, we can officially begin. For those of you who have just arrived, the leader of the hunters was about to give us an important complaint and information.” Hunder looked toward Bolo and asked, “Well, Bolo, what do you have to tell us?” but he could only think of what Vaztik was up to.

Bolo thought about saying something to accuse her, but he had no proof. Hunder, seeing that she did not respond, asked, “Young hunter, can you tell us why you called this meeting? It seemed from your message that there was something urgent to attend to.”

Bolo calmed down and, taking a deep breath, smiled and began to say, “Thank you all for coming, thank you leaders for taking care of us as you do. The Yellow World would not be what it is without you. It is your example that motivates us to give and do our best.” Everyone was attentive to what Bolo was saying.

However, Vaztik saw a peculiar smile on his face and worried thinking he would give her away and tell everyone that she let the wolves on the outside escape. 

After a short pause, Bolo continued, “Thank you for allowing me to be in charge of watching over our food, but I have to report that I have noticed that someone is helping the wolves steal it and escape. This is intolerable.”

“True, this is intolerable, who is doing such a thing?” asked Hunder.

They all looked at each other, asking the same question. Gonder noticed that young Vaztik looked very anxious and worried and, unseen by her, smiled in anticipation of what would happen.

“I know it's crazy, but it's reality. The bad thing is that we have not been able to capture or get a good look at this person's face,” Bolo said. Hearing this, everyone present began to murmur and Bolo continued, “Not to worry, I have a solution to this problem.”

Hunder, asking everyone to be quiet, asked, “What do you propose, young hunter?”

“I think we can catch this person, if we recruit someone who knows the forest better than anyone else. I think we can learn a lot and be more effective, even against thieving wolves,” Bolo suggested.

“Who is this person and why don't you just ask him?” asked Hunder. Bolo smiled and answered him:

“Gentlemen, I did not ask him before, as I wish to know your opinions first. The person I have in mind is here among us today.” They all began to murmur among themselves, looking at each other.

No one could imagine who Bolo might be talking about.

Until suddenly the hunter leader pointed to Vaztik saying, “The person who can help us is young Vaztik.”

Berla surprised, shouted, “What, what do you mean my girl is that person?”

“I agree, Vaztik is perfect for this,” Gonder stated. “You'll see, don't worry,” the scientist then muttered, as he looked at the others. “I think I can see why you say that. This young lady really surprised us all in yesterday's race, but it would be the first time a woman was called to be part of the hunting party.”

“She is a young woman from a beloved family and, with so many talents, she is sure to do well,” assured Bordo, Viko's father.

“I don't think anyone would object to young Vaztik joining the hunters,” added Bolo's father, Robert, sitting next to Hunder, who was analyzing everything very thoughtfully.

So was Vaztik. Everyone was watching her, but she hid her discontent very well. The discussion on the matter continued, while the young woman thought with a fake smile: “What are you up to? If I am chosen, you will regret it. Do you wish to play little games with me? Let's see who wins.”

Suddenly, Hunder stood up from his chair, saying, “Ladies and gentlemen, today we accept young Bolo's request and grant that young Vaztik may join the group of Yellow World hunters. Vaztik, what do you have to say to this?” 

“I accept the invitation with great joy, anything to help,” she replied standing up.

Everyone, hearing her reply, began to murmur. 

“Daughter, are you sure about this?” asked Berla quietly.

“Yes, Mom. It's okay,” she answered quietly too.

Bolo was very attentive, until he heard Vaztik ask, “You want me to be the leader of the group so I can share everything I know?”

“Well said, Vaztik,” Gonder muttered.

“Is this a good thing?” asked Poto to the scientist in a low voice.

“You'll see, your daughter will do great.”

Vaztik waited for the answer, while watching the look on Bolo's face. Hunder, after talking to the other leaders, replied, “Well, miss. We have analyzed your question. We think you will be an exceptional leader, but young Bolo has been as well. So we've decided that the two of you will take over leading together, if that's what you want.”

“That sounds great to me, so we can share our skills,” Vaztik replied looking at Bolo with a smile to provoke him.

He was holding in his anger and, with a smile, nodded his head without saying anything. 

Hunder added: “Now that everything is in order, from tomorrow, young Vaztik will be co-leader together with Bolo and then we will see if this really solves the problem, to find those who are helping the wolves.”

After this, those present stood up applauding. Hunder ended the meeting and everyone started to leave the place. But Vaztik and Bolo's gaze was crisscrossed, each trying to decipher what the other was up to.

“You don't know what's in store for you, I'll make your days unforgettable,” Vaztik mumbled, smiling at Bolo.

“Come, daughter, it's time to go,” Berla announced. The young girl, as if it was nothing, turned and went back to her parents, while Bolo stood watching the people leaving the place.

Gonder approached the young girl and said, “Young lady, you have something very special and I am sure you will do well, just trust your inner voice and everything will be fine.”

She just smiled at him without saying anything and Gonder took his leave. 

Then Vaztik's father, taking advantage of the fact that they were alone, said to her, “I'm sorry I didn't support you from the beginning.”

“Don't worry, dad, I understand you were just trying to take care of me, I know that's what dads do,” Vaztik replied hugging him.

“Well, that's enough you two who will make me cry. Let's go home and celebrate that, as of tomorrow, our daughter will be the first female leader in the hunter group.”

Her family went off to celebrate, but in Vaztik's mind the ideas of what she would do to make Bolo pay for trying to mess with her were beginning to form ideas of what she would do to make Bolo pay for trying to mess with her.