Hokkien Peng (Hokkien: Army)
Step into the bustling Selarang camp cookhouse, where Melvin finds himself in a crowded, chaotic environment. Dressed in his perspiring camouflage No 4 uniform, he searches for his section mates and buddy, only to discover that they have mysteriously disappeared at a time when camaraderie and moments of respite are most desired. The clattering of cutlery and hushed conversations fill the air as men devour their meals, resembling starved individuals. Amidst the chaos, droplets from a juicy apple splatter on Melvin's chest, catching his attention. With curiosity piqued, he scans the nearby table to find two familiar faces—Infantry Specialists Mack and Guang—engaged in animated dinner conversation. Join us as we unravel the mysteries of the mess hall and explore the bonds of friendship that endure even in the most unexpected circumstances.
Fire in London
Join Martha on her leisurely walk across the serene fields, guided by the promise of an unforgettable trail from the man selling maps at John o' Groats. As she reaches the top of the untamed cliffs overlooking the majestic Duncansby stacks, an awe-inspiring view of the open sea unfolds before her disbelieving eyes. The rugged walls of the precipice adorned with mountain avens, moss, and heather create a picturesque backdrop against the tranquil azure sky and drifting cumulus clouds. Martha feels a fulfilling sense of tiredness, a testament to the journey she has undertaken. She shields her face from the sinuous stream of cold air, her Burberry scarf fluttering in the winds. The worn-out dress billows as she secures the zip of her jacket, while the winds whistle and the waves crash against the shore below. Immerse yourself in the serenity of Martha's experience and let the beauty of nature captivate your senses in this breathtaking tale.
Living Dangerously
Step into the heart-pounding world of Benny as he finds himself at the Singapore Turf Club, embroiled in a web of tension and anticipation. A certain tightness grips Benny's heart, reminiscent of a past encounter where he exhibited his expert skills. The air carries an unusual scent, not solely due to the cloudy weather but also due to an overwhelming sense of foreboding that permeates the clubhouse. With no turning back, Benny takes in the panoramic view of the racetrack through walls of glass, immersing himself in the electrifying atmosphere. As he walks past the booths for placing bets, a familiar voice catches his attention. Adele, with her neatly cropped platinum hair, exudes an alluring appearance that contrasts with the real person Benny knows. Engaged in conversation, Benny reveals his bet on Zorro, only to be met with Adele's cackling response, deeming Zorro an underdog. As the intercom announces the preparations for the next race and spectators try to cool themselves, the tension builds, setting the stage for a thrilling and suspenseful day at the Singapore Turf Club. Join Benny as he navigates the twists and turns of this high-stakes gamble, where fortunes can change in an instant.
A Blind Date
Step into the world of Sangeetha Kaur, a punctual and determined young woman, as she finds herself at the ITC Sonar hotel in Kolkata, dressed in a traditional sari and choli. As the clock strikes eight, the long summer day bathes the surroundings in a dreamy North Indian landscape, casting a magical spell over the scene. Sangeetha contemplates the purpose of her meeting, arranged by her Aunt Bali, with a man rumored to be wealthy and reputable. The idea of a potential marriage looms in the background, as Sangeetha feels the pressure to find a suitable partner. Lost in her thoughts, she fixates on the full-length glass wall that adorns the ground level corridor. Rainwater cascades down the glass, resembling the tears of Lord Shiva, creating a mesmerizing sight. Through the clear columns, Sangeetha catches a glimpse of an enchanting outdoor vista—a sprawling pond adorned with olive-green, heart-shaped floating leaves and blooming red water lilies. The breathtaking scene momentarily transports her from the purpose of this arranged date with a stranger. Join Sangeetha on her serendipitous journey at the ITC Sonar hotel, where unexpected encounters and captivating landscapes converge, shaping her path in unforeseen ways.
The Chariot of Death
Explore the captivating legends of Brittany, where the Harbinger of Death is said to have an iron grip from which no one can escape. However, these legends fail to consider the tenacity of a spirited young girl named Cheri. On a pleasant June evening, Cheri takes the lead, grasping the narrator's hand tightly as they descend the slope of a scenic vista. Though once nicknamed "sticky skin" for her energetic and perspiring nature, Cheri has grown into a vibrant ten-year-old, exuding the sweet aroma of applesauce. As their friendship has blossomed over the years, Cheri affectionately calls the narrator by their preferred name, Trezekan, which holds a sense of magical allure in Brittany. The region is known for its amusing names, with the narrator's name being the second funniest, evoking images of someone skilled in reading mystical scrolls. However, the top spot belongs to a lady teacher named Cliteron, who, due to a defective palate, unintentionally adds a humorous twist to her own name. Cheri playfully urges Trezekan to pick up the pace, reminding them that as a boy and two months older, they should be able to walk faster and make use of their legs. Join the feisty girl and the narrator on their adventurous journey, where legends clash with reality, and the indomitable spirit of youth prevails.
Fireworks
Dive into the enigmatic world of Neil and Kate as they navigate the complexities of their five-year marriage. Against the backdrop of Marina Bay's shimmering reflections, Neil's face remains inscrutable to Kate, leaving her yearning to uncover the thoughts that elude her. A sudden burst of a multi-colored constellation above startles Kate, adding an element of surprise to their contemplative moment.Memories flood back to the time they first met at Marina Bay during a property deal that Neil had orchestrated. Sitting in the very spot they occupied years ago, they reminisce about the entangled kites they once flew, symbolizing the intertwined nature of their lives. As they struggled to untangle the knotted lines, their conversation deepened, forming the foundation of their connection.In a seemingly unrelated moment, Neil's attention is drawn to a loose pebble on the concrete ground, catching his eye next to his stylish Marc Ferragamo orange leather moccasin. He impulsively hurls it into the Bay, the sound of the rock splashing in the distance echoing a sense of release.Amidst their shared memories, Neil confides in Kate about the increasing intensity of his bond trading, leading to longer working nights that stretch into the late hours. The impact of his demanding schedule leaves Kate questioning the distance that seems to have grown between them. She also notices a lingering scent emanating from Neil's shirt on certain nights, adding to the air of mystery surrounding his thoughts and actions.Join Neil and Kate on their emotional journey as they grapple with uncertainties, searching for the truth behind the worm-like reflections and elusive emotions that have come to define their relationship.
