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2 Whisper of Midnight Author: Fitri Johan Design: Maxmillan Thomas Editor: Oliver Bryan Publisher: BMF Publications
3 First Edition, 2023 Copyright © 2023 by Fitri Johan All rights reserved. Published by BMF Publication ISBN 978-1-234567-89-0 Printed in Malaysia This edition of "Whisper of Midnight" is the first edition, published in 2023 by Fictional Publishing House. All rights to this work are reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means without the written permission of the publisher. For permissions and inquiries, please contact: BMF Publication 123 Jalan Ilmu Shah Alam, Selangor, 40450 Email: [email protected] Website: www.bmfpublication.com Design by Maxmillan Editor by Oliver Bryan Printed in Malaysia Library of Congress Control Number: 679375
4 DEDICATION This book is dedicated to you with immeasurable love and gratitude. Your unwavering support, encouragement, and belief in me have been the driving force behind this creative journey. You have been my pillars of strength, my sounding board for ideas, and my biggest cheerleaders. To our parents, whose love and sacrifices have shaped me into the person we are today, thank you for instilling in us a passion for storytelling and for always believing in my dreams. And to our friends, both near and far, who have been a source of encouragement and inspiration throughout this writing journey, thank you for your unwavering support and for celebrating every milestone with us. This book is a testament to the love, support, and encouragement we have received from every one of you. Without you, this story would not have come to life. Thank you for being our guiding light.
5 Table of Contents DEDICATION......................................................................................................................................................4 FOREWORD .......................................................................................................................................................6 PREFACE ............................................................................................................................................................6 ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS .................................................................................................................................7 INTRODUCTION................................................................................................................................................8 PROLOGUE ........................................................................................................................................................8 CHAPTER 1.........................................................................................................................................................9 CHAPTER 2.......................................................................................................................................................10 CHAPTER 3....................................................................................................................................................... 11 CHAPTER 4.......................................................................................................................................................12 CHAPTER 5.......................................................................................................................................................13 CHAPTER 6.......................................................................................................................................................14 CHAPTER 7.......................................................................................................................................................15 EPILOGUE ........................................................................................................................................................16 AFTERWORD ...................................................................................................................................................17 CONCLUSION..................................................................................................................................................18 APPENDIX........................................................................................................................................................19
6 FOREWORD In this captivating tale, the author delves into the intriguing superstition surrounding the black cat. With a desire to understand why this creature was feared and hated, the author takes us on a journey through dystopian Europe during the Dark Ages. Prepare to be enchanted by a story that combines magical realism and fantasy, as we explore the mysteries that lie within the pages ahead. PREFACE In this preface, the author reflects on the intriguing statements keeping black cats away from their family. Curious about the superstition surrounding these creatures, the author delves into research to understand why black cats were feared and hated by society. As an author, they find this topic fascinating and plan to tell the story in the genre of magical realism and fantasy, set in the dystopia of Europe during the Dark Ages.
7 ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS I would like to express my special thanks to our lecturer, Miss Wan Athirah Binti Wan Endut who supported and guided us to finish our group assignment. Your expertise and great understanding about management really helped us through the challenges of this assignment. I am grateful for your dedication to fostering a learning environment that encourages growth and development. Your valuable feedback and insightful suggestions have significantly contributed to the improvement of my work. Finally, I want to like to thank God for His unwavering guidance and strength throughout this academic journey. His grace has been our constant source of inspiration, providing us with the resilience and determination needed to overcome challenges. I am truly grateful for the blessings and opportunities He has bestowed upon us, allowing me to reach this milestone in my education.
8 INTRODUCTION In a medieval village, a black kitten, often associated with bad luck, was found by a kind hermit named Elias. He named the kitten Midnight and took care of it. However, the villagers started to believe that Elias was involved in dark magic because of the kitten's presence. This caused fear and rumors to spread, putting a strain on their peaceful life. Elias, a Kind old hermit took the kitten into his cottage. Humans will always be busybody with anyone's daily lives and start spreading bad rumors. As the story goes, When the local village finds out about the appearance of a little black kitten on their village…… That’s where the story of ‘Whisper of Midnight’ Began. PROLOGUE In the heart of Europe, during the Dark Ages, a village stood as a beacon of hope amidst the shadows of despair. It was a time when superstitions and fears gripped the hearts of the people, and none was more feared than the black cat. Legend had it that the presence of a black cat brought forth a stroke of bad luck, a curse that would befall anyone who dared to cross its path. The villagers, steeped in their beliefs, shunned these creatures, seeing them as harbingers of doom.
9 CHAPTER 1 once upon a tiMe, in the heart of medieval Europe, where superstitions and fears of the supernatural held sway, a small black kitten was born under the shadow of the waning moon. Legend had it that black cats were cursed creatures, harbingers of dark magic, and the companions of witches. This stigma had persisted since the dark ages. The tiny kitten, born with fur as dark as the midnight sky, found itself in the orphaned and abandoned on the outskirts of a small village. However, this tiny creature fate had a peculiar way of weaving destinies, and the kitten's cries reached the ears of a kind old man named Elias. Elias, a hermit living on the fringes of the village, heard the mewling and followed the sound to discover the small, shivering bundle of fur. His heart become softened at the sight of the lonely creature, and without hesitation, he took the kitten and cuddle it in his weathered hands. Elias, known for his kind and gentle behavior, saw beyond the superstitions surrounding black cats. "Hello There Little one. Fear not of this old hermit little one….. I shall call you Midnight, for you to carry the mysteries of the night within you," Elias declared, as his eyes twinkling with a warmth. Under Elias's care, Midnight thrived. The hermit's humble cottage became a heaven for the small feline, and Elias revealed in the newfound companionship. Midnight, oblivious to the prejudices that shadowed him, grew into a sleek and graceful cat, his glossy black fur reflecting the deep affection he received. However, the villagers, entrenched in their irrational beliefs, began to view Elias with suspicion. The presence of Midnight, a black cat, became a source of fear and paranoia.One day someone finds out about Midnight Rumors spread like wildfire, painting the hermit as a practitioner of dark arts, with Midnight as his familiar. Whispers echoed through the cobblestone streets, reaching the ears of even the most level-headed villagers.
10 CHAPTER 2 One fateful night, an evils mob, fueled by fear, gathered outside Elias's cottage. Torches cast shadows on their determined faces as they accused the hermit of consorting with the forces of evil. The mob blind to Elias's pleas, surged forward, fueled by a collective madness. In the chaos, Elias was fatally injured, collapsing to the ground with a gasp of pain. Witnessing the tragedy unfold, Midnight felt a surge of terror and sorrow. He watched helplessly as the mob, driven by irrational fear, brought about the demise of his only friend. As Elias lay on the ground, blood staining the earth beneath him, the old man's eyes met Midnight's. In a final act of love and sacrifice, Elias summoned the last reserves of his strength by going inside the cottage. With trembling hands, he pushed aside a loose floorboard, revealing a hidden passage leading to the outside world. "Go, young one, seek happiness beyond this cursed land," Elias whispered, his voice weak but filled with love. With a final, heartfelt hug, Elias urged Midnight into the concealed tunnel. As the mob realized the consequences of their irrational actions, guilt and remorse washed over them. The old man's last act had shattered their collective reason, leaving them grappling with their ignorance. Meanwhile, in the dimly lit tunnel, Midnight navigated the twists and turns, guided only by the moonlight filtering through the cracks. The tunnel seemed to stretch endlessly, mirroring the uncertainties that lay ahead. Emerging on the other side, Midnight found himself alone on the outskirts of the village. The scent of freedom mingled with the damp earth as he hesitated, torn between the grief for his lost friend and the uncertainty of the unknown.
11 CHAPTER 3 Driven by an innate instinct, Midnight ventured into the vast forests beyond the village. The moon above became his guiding light, casting a silvery glow on his sleek black fur. Along his journey, he encountered a diverse array of creatures, both magical and mundane, who shared their wisdom and stories. Midnight's path led him to a hidden realm, where ancient magic and forgotten truths awaited discovery. There, under the guidance of mystical beings, he unraveled the secrets of his mysterious origins and the role he played in breaking the curse that had plagued his kind for centuries. The mystical beings, guardians of the forgotten realms, revealed that Midnight was no ordinary cat. He carried within him a unique connection to the ethereal energies that bound time and destiny. The legends of black cats as cursed beings were but fragments of a forgotten truth their role as protectors against a malevolent force that sought to disrupt the delicate balance of time. As Midnight delved into the mysteries of his existence, he learned to harness the dormant powers within him. He discovered that his bond with Elias transcended the mortal realm; the old man's sacrifice had imbued Midnight with the ability to traverse between the known and the mystical. Armed with newfound knowledge and a sense of purpose, Midnight set out on a quest to fulfill Elias's last wish to break the curse that had haunted black cats for centuries. Along the way, he encountered magical beings, wise seers, and ancient tomes that held the key to unraveling the enchantment. The journey was fraught with challenges, both physical and metaphysical. Midnight, he faced tests of courage, compassion, and wit, as the malevolent force sought to thwart his mission. Yet, with each trial, Midnight grew stronger and more attuned to the cosmic energies that flowed through him.
12 CHAPTER 4 Throughout his quest, Midnight he encountered a host of characters who became his allies. There was Luna, a mystical owl with eyes that held the secrets of the night; Ember, a mischievous fox with a penchant for riddles; and Celestia, a benevolent spirit who guided him through the ethereal realms. Together, they traversed enchanted forests, crossed mystical rivers, and climbed ethereal mountains. Midnight's journey became a tapestry of experiences, woven with threads of friendship, sacrifice, and the inexorable march toward destiny. As Midnight neared the culmination of his quest, he faced the ultimate challenge — a confrontation with the malevolent force that sought to keep the curse intact. In a realm beyond the boundaries of time, Midnight engaged in a battle of wills, drawing upon the collective strength of the allies he had gathered along the way. The malevolent force, a manifestation of ancient bitterness and resentment, hurled dark magic and illusions at Midnight, testing his resolve. Yet, with the memories of Elias and the wisdom of his newfound companions, Midnight stood strong. He unleashed the dormant powers within him, creating a cascade of cosmic energies that enveloped the malevolent force. In the final confrontation, the curse unraveled like a thread, dissipating into the cosmic winds. The darkness that had shrouded black cats for centuries lifted, revealing their true nature as protectors of the delicate balance of time. Midnight found himself standing in a realm bathed in celestial light as the evil force dissipated. The mystical beings, guardians of forgotten truths, appeared before him, their ethereal forms shimmering like stardust. "You have broken the curse, young one," Celestia said, her voice a melodic echo. "Your journey was not just to free your kind but to restore harmony to the threads of destiny woven through the fabric of time."
13 CHAPTER 5 As a reward for his bravery and selflessness, Midnight was granted the choice to either remain in the mystical realm or return to the mortal world. With a heart heavy with the memory of Elias, Midnight chose to return, guided by a newfound purpose — to share the wisdom he had gained and protect the delicate balance of time. Back in the mortal world, the village that had once shunned him was now faced with the consequences of their unfounded fears. Elias's cottage, abandoned and overgrown, stood as a haunting reminder of their collective ignorance. The villagers, remorseful for their actions, were left to reflect on the true nature of the mysterious black cat and the wise hermit they had unjustly driven away. Midnight, now a revered figure in both the mystical and mortal realms, wandered through the village at midnight, leaving a trail of gentle whispers that carried the echoes of forgotten truths. He became a guardian spirit, watching over the village with a benevolent gaze, ensuring that the lessons learned from his journey would not be forgotten. The once-cursed black cats, no longer bound by superstitions, roamed freely through the village, bringing joy and good fortune to those who welcomed them. The tale of Midnight and his quest spread far and wide, inspiring others to challenge preconceived notions and seek the truth beyond the veil of ignorance. And so, in the heart of medieval Europe, where once there were whispers of curses and shadows, a new legend was born a tale of redemption, wisdom, and the enduring power of love to break the chains of fear. As Midnight continued his watchful vigil, the village transformed into a haven of understanding and acceptance. The mystical realm and the mortal world remained connected, their destinies interwoven through the timeless bond forged by a small black kitten and an old hermit who dared to defy the darkness.
14 CHAPTER 6 And so, under the moonlit sky, the legacy of Midnight, the once-cursed cat had lived on, carrying the whispers of midnight to those who were willing to listen and embrace the magic that dwelled within the depths of their hearts. As the moon hung low in the desolate sky, Midnight stood alone in the village graveyard, the weight of the world pressing upon him. The gravestone before him bore the name "Elias," a stark reminder of the dear friend he had lost. The once-vibrant black fur that adorned Midnight now seemed dull, mirroring the sorrow that enveloped his heart. The village, once transformed by the lessons of acceptance, now lay in ruins. The onceremorseful villagers, consumed by guilt and regret, had turned against one another in a spiral of self-blame and despair. The once-thriving community had become a ghost town, haunted by the echoes of its own ignorance. Midnight's journey, instead of inspiring change, had inadvertently unleashed a wave of darkness upon the world. The malevolent force, once held at bay, had seized the opportunity presented by the villagers' collective remorse. It manifested as a shadowy presence that clung to Midnight like a relentless specter. Elias's sacrifice, instead of breaking the curse, had become a catalyst for tragedy. The mystical beings, their ethereal forms now tainted with sorrow, appeared before Midnight with solemn expressions. "Your quest was meant to bring light, young one, but the threads of destiny have woven a different tale," Celestia spoke, her voice now tinged with sadness.
15 CHAPTER 7 The mystical realm, once a sanctuary of magic and wisdom, had succumbed to the encroaching darkness. The once-benevolent creatures had either vanished or turned into ethereal shades, lost to the malevolent force that now sought to devour all in its path. As Midnight clung to Elias's gravestone, a haunting melody filled the air — the owl's hoots now a mournful dirge, and the rustling leaves an anguished symphony. The once-whispers of midnight had transformed into anguished cries, echoing the despair that reverberated through both realms. The malevolent force, now a maleficent entity with glowing, malicious eyes, encircled Midnight. It taunted him with echoes of Elias's final moments, the pain and betrayal etched into the fabric of Midnight's existence. The once-protective black cat had become a prisoner of his own destiny. In a final act of despair, Midnight howled at the moon, a mournful wail that echoed through the desolate village. The malevolent force seized the opportunity, enveloping Midnight in a suffocating embrace. The once-cursed cat, now tainted by the darkness he had sought to dispel, crumbled to the ground. As the malevolent force consumed Midnight, the village graveyard became a realm of perpetual sorrow. The moon, now shrouded in an ominous veil, cast an eerie glow on the scene. The whispers of midnight were silenced, replaced by an oppressive stillness that permeated the air. The once-vibrant black fur that adorned Midnight now lay in a pool of shadows, and the gravestone bearing Elias's name seemed to crumble into dust. The malevolent force, having claimed its victory, dissipated into the void, leaving behind a desolate landscape devoid of hope.
16 EPILOGUE In this epilogue, a mysterious old man recounts a captivating tale about a black cat named Midnight. As the story unfolds, the grandchildren are transported to a world of enchantment and adventure. Midnight, with its piercing green eyes and sleek black fur, becomes a symbol of mystery and magic. Throughout the chapters, the children learn valuable lessons about friendship, courage, and the power of imagination. They follow Midnight on a journey through enchanted forests, where they encounter talking animals and mythical creatures. Each encounter teaches them something new about themselves and the world around them. In the epilogue, the village where the grandchildren reside, has recently faced a devastating storm that left the community in ruins. However, through the resilience and determination of its inhabitants, the village has managed to rebuild and find unity in the face of adversity. The author reflects on the themes of resilience and compassion that have emerged from the villagers' experiences. The storm served as a catalyst for change, bringing the community closer together and fostering a sense of empathy and understanding among its residents. In this epilogue, the author leaves readers with a sense of hope and possibility, encouraging them to embrace their own journeys and find the magic that lies within their own lives. The tale of Midnight and the village will forever be etched in the hearts of those who have experienced its enchantment.
17 AFTERWORD As the editor of this edition, I would like to take this opportunity to reflect on the enduring legacy of this remarkable book. When this work was first published in 2023, it sparked widespread discussions and debates about the future of technology and its impact on society. Three decades later, its themes remain as relevant as ever, continuing to inspire new generations of readers and thinkers. In preparing this edition, we have included a new foreword by a leading expert in the field, as well as updated annotations to help contextualize the text for contemporary audiences. The author's prescient insights and captivating prose continue to captivate readers, and we are honored to present this enduring classic to a new generation of enthusiasts. We hope that this edition will not only introduce this groundbreaking work to new readers but also reignite the curiosity and passion of those who have encountered it before.
18 CONCLUSION As the tale of adventure and friendship ends, the author expresses heartfelt gratitude to the readers for their support and enthusiasm. Drawing inspiration from their own travels through the enchanting forests of the Pacific Northwest, the author encourages readers to seek out the wonders of nature and find their own magic. While the characters may live on in the author's mind, their adventures may continue in another volume. The author wishes readers the spirit of exploration and bravery on their own quests.
19 APPENDIX CHARACTERS • Midnight – The Black Cat • Elias – The Old Man • Luna – The Owl • Ember – The Fox • Celestia – The Benevolent Spirit • Malevolent Spirit • The villagers • Mysterious man with his grandchildren
20 As I conclude this tale of adventure and friendship, I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to each one of you. Your support and enthusiasm have been the driving force behind this journey. I hope the characters and their experiences have resonated with you in some way. In writing this story, I drew inspiration from my own travels through the enchanted forests of the Pacific Northwest. The majestic landscapes and the folklore of the region fueled my imagination, shaping the world within these pages. I encourage you to seek out the wonders of nature and find your own magic amidst the towering trees and hidden streams. As the final page turns, know that the characters you've come to continue to live on in my mind. Perhaps one day, their adventures will continue in another volume. Until then, may the spirit of exploration and bravery guide you on your own quests.