The City of Gold

(There are 2 version of narrative in this chapter. The new script format and the traditional one. It is recommended to read the script format.)

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Script format (including extra content)

(note: I forgot to update and have to rewrite my 2 hours of work again)

[EXT. MALACCA HARBOR - DAY]

In the heart of Malacca's thriving marketplace, colorful stalls stretched as far as the eye could see, each tented by vibrant canopies that shielded the day's treasures from the sun. The tantalizing scent of exotic spices drifted on the breeze, harmonizing with the distant briny tang of the sea.

Hffyl: (Perched on a nearby stool.)

Dominating this scene was Syafiq's stall, a magnificent display of Kedah's finest goods. Lustrous fabrics, intricate metalwork, and aromatic spices, as well as plenty of other materials. A trader emerges from the crowd, dressed in flowing robes. Inquires about a beautifully crafted vase.

Middle-Eastern Trader: (in simple Malay) This... How much?

Syafiq: (Responds with a smile.) Ah, a discerning eye you have! Fifty gold dinars, and it's yours.

Middle-Eastern Trader: Forty gold dinars seems fair to me.

Syafiq: How about forty-five, and I'll include a pouch of Kedah's finest cinnamon?

Middle-Eastern Trader: (After a moment's consideration.) A deal, then. The vase and spices for forty-five gold dinars.

No sooner had the transaction concluded than another potential buyer stepped into the limelight. An elderly and a young Chinese merchant examined a shimmering bolt of fabric.

Chinese Merchant: This fabric, from where?

Syafiq: From the skilled artisans of Kedah. Fit for royalty.

Chinese Merchant: I'll take ten bolts. But, can we discuss a bulk price?

Syafiq: (Nods in agreement.) Let's find a price that suits us both.

The day wore on, and Syafiq's stall became a melting pot of cultures and desires. Indian merchants haggled over aromatic spices, Javanese traders admired the exquisite metalwork, and Siamese visitors were lured by Kedah's renowned fabrics.

All the while, Hffyl observed, his heart swelling with wonder. The clinking of coins brought his attention.

Hffyl: Syafiq, that's a lot of gold! How did you manage to make so much today?

Syafiq: Well it's a good day, my friend. Business is booming in Malacca.

Hffyl: Is it really common to earn this much in a day?

Syafiq: Well, you see, in Malacca, even the poorest folks usually have a few gold coins to their name. It's the way of trade here.

Hffyl: Really? Even the poorest?

Syafiq: Yes, indeed. Malacca is a bustling trade hub, and that means there's a lot of money circulating. People here value gold, and they work hard to earn it.

Hffyl: So, having this gold is like having... well, a normal thing?

Syafiq: You could say that. In these parts, it's quite common to have a few gold coins in your pocket.

Hffyl: Well, I never imagined gold could be so... common.

Syafiq: What? Gold wasn't common in your time?

Hffyl: You could put it that way...

Syafiq: Well, good thing then. I must step away for a brief moment. Guard the trading post in my absence, ensuring that nothing goes astray. I'll pay you some gold for helping me.

Hffyl: Of course. I'll watch over everything closely.

As Syafiq departed, Hffyl positioned himself near the trading post.

Hffyl: I hope he won't be gone for long.

However, his musings were abruptly interrupted as his gaze was drawn to the harbor. A ship, its sails gracefully billowing in the sea breeze, emerged on the horizon. He could feel like a force pulling him towards the ship.

Hffyl: (whispers) "Something feels different"

Hffyl's eyes fixed on the incoming vessel. The ship continued its graceful approach, docking at the harbor. On its wooden decks, a group of traders disembarked, their presence a seems very different to other merchants.

Trader 1: (in Japanese) Look at these exotic wares! Our Lord will be pleased.

Trader 2: (In Japanese) Indeed, we've traveled far from homeland to find such treasures.

Hffyl's gaze honed in on one figure among the group, a young girl standing slightly apart from the rest. She appeared to be several years older than him and was attired in a modern-ish dark jacket.

Hffyl: "Those traders are from Japan, that much is certain. But why are they bringing a girl on their long travel?"

Hffyl noticed her mysterious presence and watched her as she approached him. With a graceful move, she leaned her head slightly and regarded him with her dark eyes.

Mysterious Girl: (in broken Malay) Selamat petang (good evening.)

Hffyl: (noticed) Selamat petang.

Their conversation started on a courteous note that quickly changed to the more intricate nuances of language. Her gaze flitted over to Hffyl's machete.

Mysterious Girl: Pedang bagus. (nice sword)

She complimented as her voice carrying a musical lilt.

Hffyl: Terima kasih (thank you.) Your katana looks cantik (beautiful) too.

For a brief moment, they seem to have some appreciation for craftsmanship. But as the girl's attention returned to the wares laid out, her demeanor changed—reserved, almost pensive.

Hffyl: Looking for something?

Mysterious Girl: (nonchalantly) Just browsing.

Hffyl: Ah, sure. That'll be fine, because the owner of the stall is currently away so I don't really know about each prices.

Mysterious Girl: (nodded)

Hffyl: (probed) What brings you to Malacca?

Mysterious Girl: (choosing her words carefully) A journey.

Hffyl: I'm on my own journey as well.

Mysterious Girl: Well, it can be overwhelming.

Hffyl: Do you come here often?

Mysterious Girl: (shakes head) Tidak. (no)

It seemed like she had made up her mind and would not reveal anything about herself.

Hffyl: What brings you to Malacca?

Mysterious Girl: (choosing the right words) ...A journey.

Hffyl: I'm on my own journey as well.

Mysterious Girl: It can be overwhelming.

Hffyl: Do you come here often?

Mysterious Girl: No.

Hffyl: I see... (looking around for Syafiq's arrival)

The conversation took an unexpected turn when the mysterious girl change her demeanor.

Mysterious Girl: (fluent English) Well, this place isn't always what it seems.

Hffyl: (turn towards her) You speak English?! (change to speak English) You're not from this time either, are you?

The girl avoided his question with a searching look, as if seeking answers in his very soul.

Mysterious Girl: Maybe some questions are better left unanswered.

Hffyl: (serious) I don't like to hear that cliché response. Tell me. You came from the present as well, don't you?

Mysterious Girl: Present could be subjective for the both of us; we both know that. Though, I'm guessing that this might be your first time here.

Hffyl: Those magic words doesn't help me understand what's going on. Tell me how am I going to get out of this place.

The Japanese trader interrupted their conversation with a polite greeting.

Trader 2: (in Japanese) Oy, Ayumi-san!

Mysterious Girl: Nan desu ka? (what is it?)

Trader 2: What are you doing back here? Come, we need your help now.

Trader 1: Sumimasen, Ayumi-san. We need your assistance with a matter that has come up.

Ayumi: (turn towards Hffyl) I must go. It was interesting meeting you again. See you in another time, maybe.

Hffyl: (in English) Wait, I need help getting out of here. What's going on?

Ayumi: (in Japanese) I don't have time to explain. You will find your way out. Good luck.

She then turned and followed the trader, leaving Hffyl standing there, bewildered.

Hffyl: (frustrated) "I don't have time to explain", "I don't have time to explain". I don't have time to listen to your cliché line! I was this close to be getting out of here!

As he struggled to process the cryptic encounter, Syafiq, blissfully unaware of the mysterious interlude, finally came over with a cheerful disposition.

Syafiq: (cheerfully) Ah, Hffyl! I trust you kept an eye on our goods?

Hffyl: Syafiq, she... she spoke English.

Syafiq: (confused) Who spoke what?

Hffyl pointed in the direction the mysterious girl had disappeared.

Hffyl: That girl... but she disappeared. Where have you've been?

Syafiq: (scratches his head) Are you feeling alright, Hffyl? Maybe the sun's got to you. Come, let's find some shade. And some gold I'd promised.

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Original version (a bit outdated. recommended to not read)

The heart of Malacca is a thriving marketplace, with colorful stalls stretched as far as the eye could see, each tented by vibrant canopies that shielded the day's treasures from the sun. The tantalizing scent of exotic spices drifted on the breeze, harmonizing with the distant briny tang of the sea.

Dominating this scene was Syafiq's stall, a magnificent display of Kedah's finest goods. Lustrous fabrics, intricate metalworks, and aromatic spices beckoned traders from afar.

Perched on a nearby stool, Hffyl watched with rapt attention. The young lad was captivated by Syafiq's graceful dance of negotiation and trade. He observed, learned, and marveled at the art form unfolding before him.

A tall figure, dressed in flowing robes indicative of the Middle East, emerged from the crowd. His turban stood proud, and his fingers, adorned with ornate rings, gestured toward a beautifully crafted vase on display.

"This... How much?" he inquired, his Malay punctuated with a foreign accent.

Syafiq, ever the gracious host, responded with a smile. "Ah, a discerning eye you have! Fifty gold dinars, and it's yours."

The trader's eyebrows rose in mild surprise. "Forty gold dinars seems fair to me."

With a playful chuckle, Syafiq countered, "How about forty-five, and I'll include a pouch of Kedah's finest spices?"

After a moment's consideration, the trader nodded. "A deal, then. The vase and spices for forty-five gold dinars."

No sooner had the transaction concluded than another potential buyer stepped into the limelight. An elderly Chinese merchant, with a flowing beard and draped in opulent silks, examined a shimmering bolt of fabric.

"This fabric, from where?" he inquired.

"From the skilled artisans of Kedah," Syafiq replied, pride evident in his voice. "Fit for royalty."

The merchant's fingers played over the fabric, appreciating its quality. "I'll take ten bolts. But, can we discuss a bulk price?"

Syafiq nodded in agreement. "Let's find a price that suits us both."

The day wore on, and Syafiq's stall became a melting pot of cultures and desires. Indian merchants haggled over aromatic spices, Javanese traders admired the exquisite metalwork, and Siamese visitors were lured by Kedah's renowned fabrics.

All the while, Hffyl observed, his heart swelling with wonder. The interactions, the shared laughter, the clinking coins - they painted a vivid picture of Malacca's rich tapestry of commerce and culture. And amidst it all, Hffyl felt a growing appreciation for this bustling hub of history and diversity.

Hffyl couldn't hide his astonishment as he gazed at the pouch of gleaming gold coins that Syafiq had amassed throughout the day. His wide eyes reflected a mixture of wonder and curiosity.

"Syafiq, that's a lot of gold! How did you manage to make so much today?" Hffyl inquired, eager to understand the intricacies of trade in this new world.

Syafiq, still wearing a satisfied smile, began counting the coins with practiced ease. "Oh, this? Well, Hffyl, it's a good day, my friend. Business is booming in Malacca."

Hffyl couldn't help but dig deeper into the matter. "But is it common to earn this much in a day?"

Syafiq chuckled at the question, his fingers continuing their dance over the glistening coins. "Well, Hffyl, you see, in Malacca, even the poorest folks usually have a few gold coins to their name. It's the way of trade here."

Hffyl's eyes widened in surprise. "Really? Even the poorest?"

Syafiq nodded with a knowing look. "Yes, indeed. Malacca is a bustling trade hub, and that means there's a lot of money circulating. People here value gold, and they work hard to earn it."

The concept was sinking in for Hffyl, and he continued to inquire, still amazed. "So, having gold is like having... well, a normal thing?"

Syafiq's smile widened as he realized Hffyl's fascination. "Exactly, Hffyl. In these parts, it's quite common to have a few gold coins in your pocket."

Hffyl couldn't help but express his astonishment. "I never imagined gold could be so... common."

Syafiq, now fully engaged in the conversation, patted Hffyl's shoulder warmly. "What? Gold wasn't common in your time?"

Hffyl hesitated, grinning sheepishly. "You could put it that way..."

In the heart of the vibrant trading post in Malacca, crates of exotic goods from far-off lands were neatly aligned, forming a picturesque tableau of international commerce. Amidst this bustling scene, Syafiq, the seasoned trader, held court at his stall, overseeing his collection of wares with an eagle eye.

Turning to his young companion, Hffyl, Syafiq delivered a succinct directive, his tone carrying the weight of responsibility. "Hffyl, I must step away for a brief moment. Guard the trading post in my absence, ensuring that nothing goes astray."

Hffyl nodded dutifully, fully aware of the trust Syafiq had placed in him. "Of course, Syafiq. I'll watch over everything closely."

As Syafiq departed, Hffyl positioned himself near the trading post, his senses attuned to the lively exchanges transpiring around him. The marketplace was a symphony of cultures and languages, a testament to the cosmopolitan nature of Malacca.

Observing the comings and goings, Hffyl couldn't help but wonder about Syafiq's absence. "I hope he won't be gone for long," he mused to himself.

However, his musings were abruptly interrupted as his gaze was drawn to the bustling harbor. A ship, its sails gracefully billowing in the sea breeze, emerged on the horizon. A peculiar sensation prickled at the edges of Hffyl's consciousness, an inexplicable feeling that something extraordinary was about to occur.

"Something feels... different," Hffyl whispered under his breath, his eyes fixed on the incoming vessel.

The ship continued its graceful approach, docking with practiced precision. From its wooden decks, a group of traders disembarked, their presence a striking contrast to the local merchants. They conversed animatedly, their words foreign to Hffyl's ears but their excitement palpable.

The unfamiliar language flowed melodiously, and Hffyl strained to make sense of it. It was Japanese, a tongue he had never encountered before, and the traders were discussing the exotic wares they had discovered in the bazaar.

"Look at these exotic wares! Our lord will be pleased," one trader remarked in traditional Japanese, gesturing toward the array of goods.

Another trader, equally entranced by the offerings, responded in kind. "Indeed, we've traveled far from Japan to find such treasures."

Hffyl's gaze honed in on one figure among the group, a young girl standing slightly apart from the rest. She appeared to be several years older than him and was attired in a hakama and a kimono adorned with a unique and intricate design.

Fascinated and puzzled in equal measure, Hffyl muttered to himself, "Those traders are from Japan, that much is certain. But why are they here, and who is that young girl?"

In the midst of the vibrant trading post, amidst the flurry of merchants and richly adorned stalls, the ethereal presence of the mysterious girl stood out. The ebb and flow of commerce seemed to hush momentarily as she approached Hffyl. With the gentle grace of a swan, she tilted her head slightly, her dark eyes locking onto his.

"Selamat petang," she greeted in simple Malay, the traditional evening salutation.

Hffyl, slightly taken aback by her direct approach, replied politely, "Selamat petang."

Their conversation started on a courteous note, a subtle dance of words that sidestepped the more intricate nuances of language. As her gaze flitted over to Hffyl's golok, her face illuminated with a spark of recognition.

"Pedang bagus," she complimented, her voice carrying a musical lilt, using the Malay term for 'sword.'

With a prideful smile, Hffyl responded, "Terima kasih (Thank you). Your katana looks cantik (beautiful) too."

For a brief moment, an unspoken bond of appreciation for craftsmanship connected them, two souls recognizing the artistry in each other's possessions. But as the girl's attention returned to the wares laid out, her demeanor changed - reserved, almost pensive.

Hffyl, driven by a mixture of curiosity and intrigue, ventured, "Looking for something?"

She met his question with a nonchalant, "Just browsing."

As the words flowed, there was a palpable undercurrent in their interaction, a silent acknowledgment that both were travelers on a path less trodden. Seeking to unearth more about this enigmatic visitor, Hffyl probed gently, "What brings you to Malacca?"

She paused, choosing her words carefully, "A journey."

His eyes widened in understanding, "I'm on my own journey as well."

With a smile that hinted at shared secrets, she replied, "It can be overwhelming."

Trying to keep the conversation alive, Hffyl asked, "Do you come here often?"

With a cryptic smile, she simply responded, "Tidak (No)."

And just like that, amidst the vibrant backdrop of the trading post, two young souls connected, each holding onto their own mysteries and tales, their conversation painting an intricate tapestry of curiosity and discovery.

Amidst the rhythmic cadence of their conversation, something unexpected occurred. The mysterious girl, her demeanor shifting like a passing breeze, suddenly switched to fluent English, catching Hffyl off guard.

"Time isn't always what it seems, Hffyl," she uttered in a language that was worlds apart from the Malay they had been using.

Hffyl's eyes widened in sheer astonishment. "You speak English?! Wait, you're not from this time either, are you?" His voice quivered with a mixture of shock and intrigue.

The girl, ever enigmatic, evaded his inquiry with a searching look in her eyes, as if seeking answers in his very soul. "Some questions are better left unanswered. But a word of advice: prepare yourself, and learn to fight. Something is coming."

Hffyl, his confusion growing into anxiety, pressed further, his voice tinged with urgency. "What do you mean? What 'something'?"

With a final, mysterious glance that seemed to convey more than words ever could, she murmured, "You'll know soon enough."

And then, like a wisp of a dream, she gracefully melted into the bustling crowd, her passage marked only by the bewildered expressions of those who had glimpsed her enigmatic presence. Hffyl attempted to give chase, but the vibrant marketplace, with its labyrinthine alleys and diverse throngs, swallowed her figure whole. In an instant, she had vanished, leaving Hffyl standing there, awash in a sea of unanswered questions.

As he struggled to process the cryptic encounter, Syafiq, blissfully unaware of the mysterious interlude, sauntered over with a cheerful disposition.

"Ah, Hffyl! I trust you kept an eye on our goods?" he inquired, his voice resonating with his usual cheerfulness.

Still dazed, Hffyl stammered, "Syafiq... she... she spoke English..."

Syafiq raised an intrigued eyebrow, clearly puzzled. "Who spoke English?"

Hffyl pointed in the direction the mysterious girl had disappeared. "That girl... but she disappeared."

Syafiq scratched his head, his face etched with bemusement. "Are you feeling alright, Hffyl? Maybe the sun's got to you. Come, let's find some shade."

With that, the enigmatic encounter lingered in Hffyl's thoughts as he followed Syafiq, the mysteries of the bustling trading post now intertwined with an encounter that transcended time and language.