Amber

by Angel Cate Vargas

"Don't ever do that again!" I trailed off and walked back and forth.

I sat down on my bed, trembling, because of what I saw earlier. I felt like my blood pounded in my ears, making my heart thud in my chest as well. "But, it was fun!" she said while grinning. She snatched the eye of Sofie and played with it like a mere ball. I pulled out my hair because of frustration. I stood up and plucked it away from her. I was still in tears. "Fun?! Killing your sister, fun? Is that what you call fun, Amber?!" I yelled.

I swerved my focus on Sofie who's now lying unto the floor, lifeless, with her blood. I don't know how she killed her and I just saw Amber stabbing Sofie restlessly. "I was playing alone here and she kept on bothering me. I lost my temper. I choked her. And you know what?" She made a devil laugh. "I was not contented so I took the kitchen knife! I never thought that I would enjoy seeing her hurt! It was fun! I love seeing her begging and asking for air!" she exclaimed happily.

I shook my head in disbelief. "If mom and dad discovered this, you're doomed!" I yelled. "Now, help me to clean up this mess."

I wiped my tears and pulled Sofie's feet. I opened my cabinet and gently put her inside. As a 16-year-old kid, I can't think right after encountering this egregious situation. I don't know what to do! I'm so scared. "Do you think mom will see this?" she asked while staring at Sofie on the floor. For the second time around, I pulled my hair out of frustration. "God, Amber!" I shed tears. "I'm sorry, I won't do it again," she said in a small voice.

My mind is completely lost. I heaved a sigh and decided to stick Sofie in the cabinet. After putting her inside, I heard some knocks which startled me. "Amber?" it was mom's voice.

I immediately ran to the door and accidentally saw myself in the mirror.

I was holding a knife with whole blood on my shirt. Then, the door opened and mom showed up.

Her eyes widened as she saw me.

The next thing I knew, I woke up in a room filled with white paint.

by Ryan Athena Evidente

by Mary Pauline Santos

by Alyanna Gaurana

by Jaymark Villagracia

by Eda Mae Jayme

Alea (Elizabetheia) eats poems for breakfast, stories for lunch, and piles of school work at night. Her knack for words could make her a future author but she is only a few years away in becoming a future educator.

Allen Joshua Seva (sorting hat) seems like a shy guy at first but he is always ready to slay. He never misses any chance to display his strength and cleverness while valuing hard work, dedication, patience, and playing fair - a true Hufflepuff, indeed!

Alyanna Gaurana (espresso shots) is fond of photography. She loves capturing stories while enjoying the comforts coffee has to offer. Alyanna is always on the go for another coffee session. Wanna join?

Angel Cate Vargas (light stick) loves surprising her readers with a swift twist plot in her one-ofa-kind stories. Aside from writing thrillers and dramas, she displays a fascination for memes.

Carl (crosshatch) His openness and reliability initiate warmth and a sense of belonging wherever he goes and whoever he comes across. This feisty guy can also nail an Ariana Gande impression.

Cristian (woolgatherer) and his trademark silent soul hovers over the chaos of the world with a calm voice. But, don’t get us wrong, his versatility makes him stand out among a crowd of thousands.

Cristopher (raconteur) always carries artistry and good cheer wherever he goes. His waves of laughter and the way he holds a conversation depict how great he is as a mentor and friend to the publication members. His wise and silent facade says otherwise when you get to know him well.

Denise (graphics) executes efficiency both in her work and words. Her never-boring outputs and personality spell amusements and she is open to anything and everything you will say. She might as well call her “Flash” as she can create a masterpiece in just a few minutes.

Eda Mae Jayme (wonder woman) is not your typical girl. Her passion for helping others fuels her toward her future profession, making herself one of the marvels. This future doctor and hero will not only be saving lives but also captures amazing shots through her camera.

James Necarl Mesa (craftsman) is skilled in maneuvering the vast terrains of COD. He is not only good at using keyboard and mouse but also excels in the world of watercolor art and sketches. When the painter in him is asleep, the performer breaks loose and you can’t stop him.

Jaymark Villagracia (pendant) has the heart for service to the community and is compassionate in his faith. His presence always fills the mood with lightheartedness creating endless fellowship to others.

John Mark Sanico (pen and paper) may be a reincarnation of a Kpop idol. John projects well in and out of the camera. Equipped with his charm, he’s natural habitat is in leadership.

Joshua (soul rocker) pours his heart and soul in his art as evident in the harmony of lines and colors. Just as his drawings are filled with emotions, his soulful voice can turn that frown upside down.

Jusa (Katharina) has the ability to lighten the mood even at first impression. With her smile that charms and a soothing voice of a caring mom, it’s difficult to say no whenever she requests something. The soft-hearted lady of the Board never radiates anger but once she will, we wonder what will happen. But that’s never gonna happen, right?.

Karen (polyptych) is a gentle soul that seems shy and reserved at first but has a great potential to be one of your greatest pals. Her sweet voice and endearing gestures may as well strike Cupid himself.

Krizia (photophile) is a creative drawn to anything and everything aesthetic which, she makes sure, never escapes her camera’s lens.

Krystell (Fa Mulan) is brave and independent. Her ability to speak and stand for what she believes in is proof that she runs her world. Just a piece of advice: Don’t underestimate this spirited future RMT.

Lea (stardust) can exude vibrance in her words and is able to light up gloomy days. Her laugh is contagious and makes you wonder whether the joke is funny or her laugh is. Nonetheless, this social butterfly is the life of the party which makes her loved by many.

Leslie (Mari-of-all-trades) is a busy bee. This modern version of Jane Austen prefers the calm and quiet of fields and greenery - away from the noise of social media.

Lixie Imee Soriano (grit) and her mature perspectives about life make her an achiever at a very young age. Lixie built herself with honor and never misses to prove her expertise through her writings.

Ma. Eullina Tulda (Scarlet O’Hara) is the main character of her story. With her composure and demure manners, Eullina, with her height and black curly hair, can be mistaken for a high fashion model. Just as she is living, breathing art, she creates her own art through the stories she wonderfully makes.

Maecel Joy Priolo (puzzle piece) is an aspiring writer who finds inspiration in the mysteries of life. This modern day Agatha Christie keeps herself happy by indulging in piles of books.

Mark Joseph Macasa (palette) is passionate and talented. His light aura that he carries wherever he goes will surely turn that frown upside-down.

Mary Pauline Santos (candy jar) proves that laughter is, indeed, the best medicine. This Lady Joy is always on-the-go in laughing at or sharing memes and has a dedicated spot for “One Piece” in her heart.

Micah Ella Jaylo (Q&A) and her concern for Mother Nature, socio economic issues, and her knowledge on the latest trends might as well qualify her for the next Miss Universe pageant.

Paolo (rule of thirds) is calm and a skillful young lad. With his passion for the arts and wielding his trusted camera, he is ready to take on any responsibility that calls for his creativity.

Reinhardt (Forrest Gump) and his gentle voice and profound smile show how friendly and genuine he is if you know how to tap the right keys (just make sure to not click “hibernate”). Like a brother to all, he stands as a trustworthy colleague and friend.

Renee (aesthete) is unpredictable. Once you get her talking, she will make sure there are no holds barred and will enchant you with a conversation that seems unending. That is if you get to be on her good side.

Rheymar (light and shadow) is the master of his own ship, having fulfilled his style of storytelling through his art. Just as often as you see him lifting his pen, you may also see him lifting weights during his past time.

Rialyn (abacus) is a sweet froshie filled with ideals and dreams. Despite her reserved aura, don’t mess with her (and her fine-feathered friends), she will eat you alive with her words.

Rian Athena Evidente (dream catcher) is a girl with a million dreams inhabiting her. Her family is her main source of motivation that drives her through the highs and lows of her life.

Romchelle (philocalist) is a smol living baozi - fluffy, white, and sweet but with the most savory twist. She is the Athena of the Board - a confident leader, a good sport, and uses her wit as her weapon. This lady is amazing at juggling her time in the pub, being a student, and a fur parent to her doggos. She is a lover of sweet treats and coffee runs deep in her veins.

Ruel (daylight chaser) wins in life for having a great sense of humor. He knows how to do magic tricks and part of it is illuminating and turning anxious thoughts into laughter. He’s the medicine for sadness and when you meet him, claim him.

Shanly (ROYGBIV) fills empty canvases into artworks of drama and romance. Her fondness for colors and simple strokes vividly represents her old soul and unique artistry. Shameless plug: contact her for commissioned artwork.

Carla (Sijey) has a sweet side that can make you melt in an instant. She won’t hesitate to throw corny pick-up making the (virtual) office lively. She has a long list of husbandos and does not hesitate to assign one for each day of the week.

Stephanie Gonzales (music box) not only has good taste in literature but also in music. She’s adept in playing the Kalimba and listening to worship songs is her stress reliever.

Windsor Linus Sumbillo (wordweaver) is the personification of humility itself. He has compassion for everything and remains humble whenever he gets appreciated for his creativity. Windsor is the main character of his life, read him loudly.

TOLENTINESTAR

The Official Student Publication of the University of Negros Occidental -Recoletos tolentinestar@gmail.com | www.facebook.com/tolentinestar

EDITORIAL STAFF A.Y. 2020-2021

EDITORIAL BOARD ROMCHELLE CHRIS DANIELLE WAMINAL EDITOR -IN -CHIEF CRISTOPHER VILLARUEL ASSOCIATE EDITOR JUSALANNE MATULAC MANAGING EDITOR DESK EDITORS LESLIE MARIE BAAN LITERARY EDITOR

CARLA JOANNE ROBLES FEATURE EDITOR TECHNICAL EDITORS RENEE SUALA MULTIMEDIA EDITOR REINHARDT FIRMEZA MULTIMEDIA ASSOCIATE ALEA JEN VILLAHERMOSA ONLINE CONTENT MANAGER STAFF WRITERS LEA MAY GALIMBA CRISTIAN JAY PLAZA RIALIN YASAY

CARTOONISTS RHEYMAR CHUA JOSHUA GARITA GRAPHIC ARTIST RUEL DUHAYLUNGSOD LAYOUT ARTIST PAOLO BELONIO

HUMAN RESOURCE CONSULTANT KAYE EUNICE LAMERA, RSW

TECHNICAL CONSULTANT ALYSSA MARIE ARCEÑO

TECHNICAL ADVISER

ENGR. ASHRAF KHATER, ChE, MEnE

Tolentine Star would like to express thanks to the following people :

GOD ALMIGHTY for the unending blessings and protection to make the completion of this folio possible;

THE GAWAD TOLENTINO PARTICIPANTS AND

CONTRIBUTORS for entrusting us with your talents and imparting your pieces, arts, stories, and experiences to us;

THE TEACHERS for uplifting the talents of the students and for encouraging them;

ENGR. ASHRAF KHATER, ChE, MEnE for being a persistent mentor who encourages, motivates, and guides us every step of the way;

KAYE EUNICE LAMERA, RSW for the pep talks, mental health check-ups, and advice that make us strive to be better;

ALYSSA MARIE ARCEÑO for providing in-depth feedback, for knowing what will and won’t work in the publication, and for her guidance and constant supervision;

DR. DEXTER PAUL DIOSO, CSASS for the trust and for the support as we fulfill our goal to amplify the stories of the students through our outputs; and

REV. FR. AMADEO LUCERO, OAR for entrusting us with the holistic development of the student body through campus journalism.

This literary folio would not be possible without the love and support from each one of us - author and reader. We thank you for embracing literature and in your continued support for the arts that made this folio into reality. Let the love for literature shape your persona.

-Literary Editor

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