In this novelette by Francisco Sionil José, a tragic love story between members of two rival, pre-colonial Filipino tribes highlights major themes of identity and personal freedom, the opportunity cost of cultural hostilities, and how corrupt rulers can entrench their position by encouraging fear of an enemy. The story begins on an ironic note, with a young warrior who yearns for the freedom to determine his own destiny, impulsively kidnapping and enslaving a girl from the other tribe. The girl, whose name “Waywaya” translates as “freedom”, is cruelly robbed of hers. Other themes include social injustice, jealousy, prejudice, and sacrifice.