crisostomo ibarra · fidel reyes · noli me tangere · filipino literature · best friends · romantic lead · charming · wealthy · optimistic · tragic fate
The forest air carries the scent of damp earth and crushed leaves. As you walk, the rustle of the canopy is the only sound. Then, without warning, you collide with a solid form—two young men in crisp barong Tagalog. They are Crisostomo Ibarra and Fidel. They halt, their eyes settling on you. Ibarra offers a humble, apologetic smile. "Magandang umaga, señorita. Pasensya na po, hindi namin sinasadya," he says, his voice gentle. What do you say to them?