Read here "Time To Walk Away" by Rizo Balic
Just thirty km away from Belgrade, quiet village Babina Dolina lay nestled at the foot of the mountain Kosmaj. In the centre of the village, there is a small church. The graveyard lay next to the church. From the top of the church bells rang in a quiet night, disturbed by the pealing of the bells, some of the local dogs start barking. Midnight on 11th May 1969, it just begins. A full moon shone on a man standing amid deserted graves holding a bouquet of roses in the right hand. All man's attention focused on a picture of a young girl smiling at him from a gravestone. Under the picture engrave golden letters bearing an inscription.
MIRA KATIĆ
Born 21st September 1946 - Died 11th May 1968.
Greatly missed evermore in our thoughts
Dad: TOMO
Mother: STANA
Brother: MARKO
Sisters: SOFIJA & NADA.
Fiancé: VOJO.
Whispering voice and tears in his eyes, the man reads the inscription a few times. Remains silent stare at the gravestone in front of him. Before speak again, grab a deep breath all the time looking at the gravestone, ‘my darling Mira, I’m so sad, today it is exactly a year since your death. Later today, your family will be at your gravestone to pay you a respect. As your fiancé, I should be with them too. However, at that time, I’ve to be somewhere else. I have to be alone with you to reveal all about my life and about my parents. Every time you ask questions about my family, I changed the subject avoiding the answers. All you knew about me, I’m studying at the Medical University and live in the Students’ City. I’m sure many times you must wonder why I never mentioned my parents as if they didn't exist.’
The man stop talking coughs a couple of times, clear throat smiled at the gravestone. ‘I had very good reasons for not telling you that. It’s the time to tell you all about it, reveal all the secrets; I kept in my heart and soul. You’ll be shock when hear my life story, more than ever before in your entire life. Knowing you very well, I’m certain you would help me to overcome all I’ve gone through my life. That accident takes you away from me. I’m left alone again to carry on my entire burden as I’ve done most of my life. Many times, I wish a better, happy life. In my case, it never happened, as if it meant that way. I still don’t know why I‘m punished. I never have done anything wrong in my entire life. I always wanted to spend just a little bit more time with my parents. My parents have some other ideas. I’m going to tell you all about it. You’re the first and the last soul to hear all my family's secrets as it happened through my life. I still have father, Savo; today celebrates 48th birthday. Also, it’ll be the eighth anniversary of mother Vinka's funeral and a year of your death. I know you’ll say all those facts nothing has in common. It could be just a pure coincidence nothing more than coincidence. Nevertheless, I’m going to tell you all about it, as it takes place. All details what I know for sure. To understand better about my family history, I’ve to start right from the beginning of my father Savo's birth, exactly forty-eight years ago. My father Savo was born on 11th May, 1921 in a small mountain village…!'
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For Jovo Radunović, the May of 1921 grows to be the most critical period during his life so far. During this month, is going to be a dad for a very first time and excitement to be a new father written all over his face. Proudly looking at his pregnant wife, Rada sleeping on a wooden bed thought to himself. ‘Poor darling, she looks worn-out and very happy too. I’m sure she cannot wait enough to get rid of that hefty load inside stomach. It must be a very burdensome baby making her getting easily tired for the last couple of months. I wish I could help her. It would be much easier for her too!’
Concerned for Rada's safety it makes him a very worried man; questions race through his mind, ‘what if it's a heavy baby? It could turn upside-down; it could put her life in danger?’
Barely a blink inside memory sufficient to remind what happened a year earlier to his next-door neighbor, Mitar Jokić's cow. The cow due to calve it could not to calve as a calf up so massive. For a whole two days, the cow fought to deliver the calf, but after two long days of fighting the cow died, and the calf died as well. Villagers opened the cow's stomach witness the calf turned upside-down causing death for both. Everyone who saw the size of the calf at once baffled. Not a single soul ever witnesses a similar size of a calf in a lifetime of cattle breeding. Still looking at sleeping Rada, thinking, ‘nonsense, even for a single moment, it was silly of me thinking like that. Rada is very strong healthy young woman. I’m sure; she can easily pull out a horse's tail with her bare hands.’
Tenderly, gave another look full of love and admiration for Rada lying in the same position in bed snoring away, breathing normally. Moving eyes from sleeping wife look around the room. Room size four-square meters the average size of the house at a small village Vukov Kamen where Jovo and Rada settle. On the right-hand side, across the room, there’s an open fireplace with a long metal chain. A cooking pot hangs over the fire, adds some wooden log to a nearly douse fire. A few minutes after three o’clock in the morning on the 10th of May 1921, felt a chill in the room. Concern for Rada from a nearby pram made a couple of weeks early took a woolen blanket places over her body. Sense of pride at his skillfulness, while remembers, wasted three whole days searching to find a straight oak tree for a baby pram. Couple of days searched inside forests around Vukov Kamen, each tree to his estimate flawed. It’s too short not straight enough or didn’t like a quality of the wood. On the third day of his search, decided to try his luck around neighboring village Pavlove Kolibe ten kilometers away from Vukov Kamen. The next morning very early left his bed and his sleeping wife Rada. Go to prepare his horse Zelenko, to reach his target quicker and easier. Busy working around his horse Zelenko, didn’t notice Rada, standing nearby him looking at him surprised, ‘where are you going, it’s still very dark out.’
‘To Pavlove Kolibe, you should go back to bed, go back!’
‘Why do you have to go that far Jovo? Why do you need Zelenko?’
‘I’m looking for an oak tree that’s why I need Zelenko!’
‘Why do you’ve to go that far, you’ve as many trees as you wish around here?’
‘I’ve searched already. I can't find what I want.’
‘Why do you need oak trees?’
‘I want to assemble pram for our baby son!’
‘How do you know it will be a son? What makes you think that?’
‘I’ve a strong feeling it’ll be a son. Looking at your big stomach, I’m sure it’s a boy!’
‘What if it turns out it’s a girl?’
‘As long as it's a normal child, I don't mind boy or girl!’
‘How long do you think it’ll take you to find your ‘famous oak tree’ over there?’
‘I hope it won't be for too long!’
‘Better be quick with my pregnancy I can't look after cattle and chickens!’
‘Don't worry. I'll be back before noon with Zelenko it won't take me too long. I wake up earlier to milk cows and sheep to feed the cattle and the poultry. You lie down; don’t go outside bed at all. If you need any help, I left you a bucket inside the room. Make a noise, Stoja will come to see you immediately. I talked to her yesterday when I saw her passing by their house on my way through the forest. Come on, I’ll take you back to bed.’
Leaving Rada in bed went to milk the cows and sheep. Two hours afterward, ride on Zelenko towards Pavlove Kolibe. Reaching to his target searched among the oak trees. On his face appears a broad smile, catches sight of a lengthy upright thick oak tree, ‘that’s exactly what I need! Rada will be pleased, I find what I needed; my journey it wasn’t wasted!’
The sharp axe did the rest. Half an hour later, an oak tree proudly standing inside the forest plunged to the ground. Cut off all the branches, other parts of the tree didn’t need. Set on a journey towards Vukov Kamen and Rada. After returning home, finds Rada still sleeping, looking divine. As a skilled carpenter, to construct a baby pram, it was a piece of cake. It took him half of a day design a pleasing miniature baby pram. Shift eyes from a baby pram towards the table and four chairs rest in the middle of the room. After that, swing eyes towards two window frames on each side across the room. Furthermore, made from a wood, a white door, and a bed where Rada is sleeping. After the wedding erect a house; moved in. Jovo constructs all their furniture with his own hands. Recollect after the end of the First World War, life for many Montenegrin families so hard. Drive many families searching for better and easier life to relocate to different locations. During the First World War, some families die out entirely. Some of their members killed on battlefields, others perish within Albanian mountains retreating from the Austrian army. Desperately trying reaches their target a safe haven in the island of Corfu. The period from 1915 to 1917, it was the most difficult period for the Montenegrin and Serbian armies during the First World War. Over 350.000 soldiers and civilians pass away on the Greek island of Corfu, from exhaustion and epidemics in that crucial period of Serbian history. He reaches to the island of Corfu, outlive the epidemics and exhaustion. After the rehabilitation period, returns to fight against the Austrian army. Jovo’s parents and two older brothers succumb on Corfu from tuberculosis. He spends a dismal period alone until April 1918, met a nurse, Rada Medić, in the Red Cross hospital in a tiny town of Kolašin. Jovo’s army unit stationed at the last line of defence of Kolašin, defending the town from advancing Austrian Army. Throughout the battle one of Jovo's soldier friends, Dejan Kukić endures serious wounds on his chest. Wounded soldier relocates from the battlefield to the local Red Cross Hospital. Later, that same day the wounded soldier died from his injury. Jovo remains at his bedside. A nurse Rada, working at the hospital tries to calm down Jovo in his sadness for his lost friend. Instantly, they fall for one another. One month later after they met, they marry at the local church. Jovo remains stationed near to the hospital until the end of the war. After the war ends, a newlywed moves off to live in a tiny mountain village Vukov Kamen, where Jovo’s family roots are. That same year they built their own house. Rada, same as Jovo lost all her family during the First World War. A young couple lost all their family members due to a war, joyful. To crown their happiness Rada’s expecting a baby, their future it looks dazzling and splendid.
Carefully walking not to disturb sleeping Rada, reaches the window, opens it. Outside dark it’s too early to milk cows. Walk back to the oven; add some more wooden logs to keep the room hot. Sits down on a chair by the table, thinking what will be the best name for their son to wear when he’s born. Hundred percent certain it’s a boy, recite various names whispering as if talking to someone sitting opposite him. 'Marko, no it doesn't suit. Risto no, that name it’s not good either. Filip, no, I don’t like that name for my son. It must be a name, he’ll be proud to show off. Let try something closer to my name, what about Savo?’
The name ‘Savo’ onset echoing inside his head repeatedly until swayed him. That’ll be the best name for his son. Remembers it’s the name of one of the saints in Serbian Orthodox religion, ‘that’s the name that will be most suitable for my son, Savo!’
The brightness from outside the room embarks. A new sunrise reminds him, it’s the time to go and milk the cows, put out the candles. As left the room closes the wooden door behind carefully not to disturb Rada in her sleep. Outside the house washes his face with cold water from the water pump.
‘It is going to be a pleasant hot day! Let's see how the cattle are. It’s the time for milking!’
Opens the cowshed and fades away inside. Two hours later, emerges from the cowshed; all the jobs concerning the cattle completed. Notice, the sun gets higher in the blue sky. Newly awaken hungry domestic fowl strutted around the land picking the grass. The corn-house twenty meters away from the cowshed where hold corns for feeding his fowl, goes off inside to fetch some on the right-hand side of the door. Near the wall rests on tall hemp sack half empty, inside the sack a small china pot. Fills up china's pot with a corn and throws it on the grass. ‘Prrr, Prrr, breakfasts ready!’
From everywhere, the chickens run. Some half running half-flying in their scramble to reach the corn before all it’s gone. Goes inside a couple more times fetches food for the chickens arriving late. The grass cleared out by starving chickens delightfully watches chickens’ unique skill at picking up even small corn pieces at speed, ‘I'll give it half an hour longer, before I start looking after the eggs!’
A stifle scream from inside the house remains him on Rada, ran, ajar the door entering in the half-dark room. The faint voice from inner stops him halfway, ‘Jovo, is that you?’
‘Yes, I’m. I heard you cry out, how you’re feeling?’
‘I don’t feel good. I've strong pains inside my stomach!’
‘Maybe, it's time for baby comes to light!’
‘You could be right!’
‘Don't worry, you'll be fine!’
‘I hope so, pains are unbearable!’
‘What can I do? How can I help? You’re the nurse you know better than me what to do?’
‘Prepare plenty of hot water. Bring some dry clothes. Open the windows, I need fresh air!’
‘I'll do all that you try to relax. Would you like me to call Stoja to help us?’
‘No, I think we can manage without disturbing them. It wouldn't be fair they’re so busy.’
Opens both windows disquiet for Rada. Look at her in lots of pain, felt helpless. For the first time in his life uncertain how all it’ll end; never experienced a human birth before. Obviously, it’s not the same as an animal’s confinement. All day, Rada retains pain's sweating all the time; wipes down her face with a dry cloth watching her helplessly. At the sunset conscious of Rada's serious condition settles in to do something to help her. The sun just descends behind the huge mountain Bijelasica whilst someone arrives outside Mitar Jokić house. Inside Mitar's house children playing games screaming, running and making noise all over the house. Mitar snooze on the sofa (his favorite rest before supper). Risto seven-year-old boy a youngest son rushes inside the room and wakes him up. ‘Dad, get up!’
A boy starts to pull his father by a hand until his dad open eyes.
‘Who told you to wake me up? What do you want?’
‘Neighbour Jovo, wants you, Dad!’
‘Tell him to come inside the room. You can go now!’
‘Dad, sorry I’d to wake you up!’
‘It's all right son. It's not your fault. I understand!’
Risto left the room whilst Mitar sat on the sofa pushing his blanket to opposite side on the sofa. A few moments later, Jovo's footsteps sound outside the room. Mitar knew his next-door neighbour as a proud man always with a broad smile on his face.
Mitar thought, ‘it must be something very urgent. Unusual, for Jovo turning up at dinner time, never visited our house at this time!'
Jovo slowly enters inside the room, closing the door behind him, ‘good evening, neighbour Mitar. God helps you and all of your family!’
Mitar notice Jovo's strain face with anxiety as speaks entering inside the room, ‘good evening, neighbour Jovo. God saves you from any trouble. I’m glad to see you at my home. I can see on your face something is tormenting you.’
‘I’m disquieted for Rada, she’s due give birth. Since this morning, she’s in immense pain. I’m deeply concerned for her and a baby. I thought Stoja’s experienced in this matter giving birth seven times will be better help to Rada than me. I would be very grateful if she could come to give Rada a hand. I don't know what to do, otherwise I wouldn't be here!’
‘Jovo, you did the right choice, we’re having a dinner; you’re welcome to join us. We'll go all together to see Rada!’
‘Thank you very much for your invitation, neighbour Mitar. I’ve to go back to Rada. Perhaps, some other time, how soon do you think you can come to my home?’
'I’ve to check with Stoja!' shouts looking toward the door, ‘Stoja is dinner ready?'
Stoja replies from the kitchen, ‘yes, it's ready! I'm bringing it, now!’
‘I'm off, neighbour Mitar. See you soon!’
Jovo quickly left the room in a great hurry not giving Mitar a chance to reply, just managed to see Jovo’s tall figure disappear outside his house in a murky night. Mitar runs through to Stoja his conversation with Jovo. They ate supper in a quiet urgency. Gave instructions to their children, if they’re not back before their bedtime, they must go to beds. Jovo's home sited about three hundred meters away from Mitar's. A small narrow path linking two dwellings, merely enough space for a single person to walk along on it. Mitar walks ahead carrying in the right hand a gas lamp. It would be impossible to find the accurate path in the thick dark night. It’s a short-lived very dangerous journey, for those unverified in that lifestyle where 75% of Montenegro territory comprises mountains, rocks, and forests. On both sides of the path, befall deep ravines constant danger of falling down. A short distance behind Mitar, walks Stoja follows his steps in silence. Mitar and Stoja born in that vicinity over the years used to walk up and down the mountain paths as a part of everyday life. Mitar developed some kind of special sixth sense. Gives him ideal control and skill walking on small goat paths even with blinkers on his eyes, he’ll never fall down to the bottom of the ravine. Stoja's safety and necessity to see the path in front of her influence Mitar to carry a gas lamp. Moreover, two gas lamps will proffer lighter inside the room once the time arrives for Rada to give a birth.
Stoja inquired, ‘how is she?’
‘I'm afraid not too good at all!’
‘Did she have anything to eat and drink?’
‘Nothing at all, whole day I’ve tried to make her eat; refused all my attempts. That’s the reason; I came down to your house for help. I've done all I can!’
‘Did she wake up at all? Can she talk coherently?’
‘Just a little, spoke briefly not clearly. I think she's got a fever; sweating all the time!’
Stoja turned to husband for advice, ‘shall we wake up Rada to find out how she's feeling?’
‘I suppose it won't harm her!’
Stoja grasp gas lump of Mitar's hand came near to the bed where Rada sleep. Spot on Rada completely wetted her hair, forehead, pillow, and clothes. Stoja opens woollen shepherd's bag brought with her. Fetch out cotton handkerchief wipe all over Rada's sweating forehead and the rest of the face. Gently shake Rada’s right arm ‘Rada, wake up!’
There’s not an answer at all. On Rada’s forehead and neck, a fresh sweat appears. Stands up on aged legs walks towards Jovo whispers, ‘I think you’re right, she got a fever. Looking at stomach baby must be large one. I gave seven births. I never had as sizable stomach as....’
‘What do you think, what shall we do?’
‘Do you have any spirit?’
‘Yes, I’ve nearly a full bottle. I use it after shaving!’
‘That will be fine. Can I have some?’
Jovo goes outside to the storeroom, leave Mitar and Stoja with Rada. Returns with a bottle of Slavonic brandy hand it over. Stoja walks to open fire, pours down nearly three-quarters of the bottle's contents in the pan. Grabs a couple of dry clothes from nearby bed soak it inside pan. Placed one of the half-squeeze cloths on forehead; other cloth on stomach. Seeing Jovo baffled gaze whilst performs her traditional medicine explains, ‘this is the quickest and easiest way to mend fever!’
‘To be honest, I didn't know, I’ve never seen it before!’
‘You’re still too young to know about it. There’s plenty of time for you to learn it. You’re a clever man. I heard you were in command of your unit during the First World War. Is that true?’
‘Yes, you're right. At the end of the war, I had to do it. It was set upon me as part of my duty!’
‘You have a lovely wife; you must be a proud man.’
‘Yes, I'm very proud and happy with Rada!’
‘Would you mind telling us a little more about her? We never had a chance of talking woman to woman. Seven hungry mouths to feed, washing, cleaning, work on land, cattle and forest. Where did you meet her? Is it anything to do with the war?’
Mitar intervenes, ‘leave that for some other time. This is not the right time for this kind of conversation. There'll be plenty of opportunities later for Rada to tell you all what you want to know!’
Jovo disapproves, ‘Mitar, I don't see any harm in!’ reveal how met Rada. The early hours of the new day, 11th, May 1921, found Jovo still talking how met Rada; how they fall in love with one another. Their marriage, life together from the first day they met until today. Jovo kept observing sleeping Rada. Stoja's medicine began to affect Rada's face. Her cheeks start to grow pinkish and more relax. Heavy sweating all over the body ceases. She opens eyes, lifting up head from the pillow looking around the room. Saw Jovo talking to some unfamiliar faces; she panics, ‘where am I?’
‘Rada, darling you are in our home!’
‘Who are those people? I don’t recognize them!’
Jovo explained holding Rada's hand with a relief on his face, ‘those are our next-door neighbours, Mitar and Stoja Jokić’
Turning head towards Mitar and Stoja apologized. ‘I’m sorry I didn't recognize you, please forgive me!’
‘Don't worry it's nothing to be ashamed of. We understand!’
Stoja stands up from her chair sat in bed beside Jovo and Rada, ‘I know how you're feeling;. I know all your pain very well from my experience; try to relax.’
‘Stoja, how are you, how’s all your family?’
‘Thank you for asking; we’re all very well!’
‘I am very pleased to hear that...oouughh!!’ Rada scream, unfinished word replaces a strong groan as touches swollen stomach.
Stoja looking at Rada's face, confronted with pain holds her left arm firmly, ‘Mitar, bring that gas lamp over here. Talking from my experience it looks it’s time for our little angel to come out! Rada, listen to me carefully! Your child will sit on a journey towards us; don’t worry or feel shame, everything its normal. We’re here to help you to give birth to your child!’
Rada kisses Stoja's old hands ‘thank you very much, Stoja, for your trouble in coming here. I’m very grateful really appreciate all your support! Would you mind leaving me alone with my husband for a while? I want to talk to him before the birth begins. Please, forgive me for asking you to go to the next room!’
‘Of course Rada, it’s normal to speak with your husband at this moment. Don’t worry about us. Take as long as you need. Come on Mitar let’s go inside the other room!’
They went. For a while, there is silence. Jovo, holding Rada's hands in his observes her silent.
Rada speaks first, ‘Jovo are you glad, soon you’ll be dad.’
‘I can't wait to see our son my heart is dancing!’
‘I’ve some terrible feeling I’m going to die giving birth to our baby. I feel a little creature inside my stomach it’s huge. Jovo, I’m scared!’
‘Don't be asinine. While you were sleeping I talk to Stoja. As you know, she has seven children. She’s confident you’ll be okay!’
‘I know she owns seven children; never holds a stout stomach like mine!’
‘Yes, that's true don't forget you’re taller and stronger than her!’
‘Would you promise me something, Jovo?’
‘Anything, you want. You’ve my word. I’ll do it!’
‘If I die giving birth to our son, make sure you look after him until grows up to be a soldier. You’ve to give him all your love and attention for both of us. I know it’s definitely a boy. There’s no way a girl will be big like this in my …!’
‘Please, Rada, don't say that! I beg you stop being so morbid. What’s the matter with you? Why you’re talking about dying? We just start living together. For many years to come, we’ll share good and bad times. We both want more children. It’s normal you’re a little bit scared-this is your first child. I’m sure when it's all over you'll feel much better!’
‘I just want to make sure, that you know my thoughts and my concern for our son's future. I want you to look after him properly. Teach him to become a decent and honest man. I’ve your promise. You’ve my misgiving!’
Rada keeps silent again. Jovo keeps looking at her, growing more and more afraid. Her words brought uncertainty and fear, though on way to open the door, ‘I hope it's just a temporary, she’s feeling like this. Mitar it might have Stoja’s confinements saying exactly the same. A woman panics feel helpless with some struggle. It must be their weakness confronting problems!’ Keep to himself conversation with Rada. For a while, there’s not any news about baby’s birth. Jovo thoughtful sits next to Mitar on the chair. Mitar sits on his chair with eyes shut. Stoja sat on the bed next to Rada. Abrupt, Stoja's sharp voice aroused men, ‘the baby is coming. Mitar fetch lamp quickly. Jovo go and get hot water and towels.
‘Come on push harder, one more final push; all will be over!’
‘I'm pushing as much as I can!’
Newborn baby cry echoed through the room. Stoja wipes out child’s blood-smeared face; cut the umbilical cord with a small knife. Lifting the baby in hands, ‘Jovo, congratulations it’s a boy. One day, he’ll be a famous soldier one day. I hope you’ll look after him very well!’
‘Thank you very much, Stoja. Look how big my son, Savo is!’
Jovo busy gazing at newborn son didn’t see Stoja closing Rada's open eyes. Looking at Mitar with a sad expression whispers, ‘poor girl, pays with her own life giving birth to son!’
Mitar didn’t answer, shakes head in disbelief, look at trifling pocket watch; half past four.
The following day, two o'clock in the afternoon, Rada’s body four men carried in a coffin to a village graveyard. A tiny group of mourners led by the priest Radoš Vasić. A few meters far-off behind the priest four men in black suits carry Rada's coffin. Jovo's walks unaccompanied behind the coffin, the rest of the mourners follow. All mourners’ are men. Following Vukov Kamen’s religious tradition funerals men dealing's, for women forbidden except for close family members. Jovo lost all his family during the First World War alone in his grieving. Men came from every family in Vukov Kamen to share Jovo's grief at the tragic loss of his wife. All the mourners arrive at the open sepulcher, the priest set off the burial rites, ‘my dear brothers, we meet today to say our last farewell to our dear neighbour Rada. We’re all saddened at her death; she gave life for life of newborn son, Savo. Rada showed courage and strength in overcoming a difficult birth. With all her determination, she saved her baby son. I’ve known Rada for the last couple of years since she moved here after marrying Jovo. I had the pleasure of speaking to Rada on a few occasions. I learn of her family tragedy. When I heard of her pregnancy, I was extremely happy for both of them. After all their sufferings during the war, they deserved happiness. It’s so sad it all has to end in this heartbreaking way. My heart goes out to Jovo and his son, Savo. Rada, rest in peace. Amen!’
The priest Radoš concludes the sermon, silence took over. Radoš's words touch all their hearts. In some old men's eye, tears start to show. Montenegrin men are known hard as rock, never show any emotion. Heartless against any kind of misfortune, through centuries fought against the Turkish Ottomans Empire. Death became a regular occurrence; as eating and drinking.
As if coughing, Mitar hid wet eyes. Apart from Jovo, he’s the last man to see Rada alive. If could allow tears to run freely down his face, it’ll be easier than keep it hid inside; mustn’t show any weakness. Remember the old Montenegrin proverb, ‘tears are for women, not for men! I’ve to give Jovo support to get through his heartbreak!’
Jovo's voice sounds in his ears, ‘my darling Rada, I wish all this is just a bad dream. My life is shattered, in my heart emptiness. You made me the happiest man alive. After entire family calamity, you made my life easier. We built our love nest, here in Vukov Kamen, far away from battlefields, dying men, hunger, misery and suffering. That day when you told me the news of your pregnancy, I was so excited to cuddle our child in my arms; you’re proud and happy too. Now, you’re gone from me, forever. Early yesterday morning you were brave and strong, despite unbearable pains speak about our son Savo. You knew you won’t survive labour, more worried for Savo's future than for yourself. I promise you, I will look after Savo, as mother and father at the same time. From this day onward, I’m going to make sure, Savo has everything needs for a normal happy life. It doesn’t matter how long it will take, how much it will cost. I’ll do everything in my power to provide for our son Savo. My beloved Rada, rest in peace. Amen!’
All the mourners repeated after Jovo in the same voice: ‘Amen!’
Priest Radoš stood over open grave reading the liturgy. Three times cross over the coffin; Rada's coffin, lowered inside the gaping grave. The priest takes a handful of earth drops on the coffin; Jovo did the same.
All the mourners followed Jovo, show respect towards Rada. Gravediggers shove down the earth on the coffin. Jovo maintains the ancient tradition in Vukov Kamen. As a grieving husband place a bouquet of flowers on the sarcophagus. One of grave diggers placed a wooden cross bearing the inscription.
RADA RADUNOVIĆ (nee- MEDIĆ)
Born 01.09.1901- died 11.05.1921.
Husband Jovo, Son Savo.
One by one the mourners came to Jovo, shaking hands ‘neighbour Jovo, my deepest sympathy for your loss!’
‘Thank you for coming along, sharing my grief!’
Mitar as the last of the mourners shakes hands, ‘Jovo, you can’t imagine how sorry I’m. I still can’t get over what’s happen to Rada? She was so strong and very healthy young woman. Life’s so unpredictable, never sure what’s going to happen tomorrow.’
‘Neighbour Mitar, thank you for all you’ve done with Stoja throughout Savo’s birth and afterward Rada’s misfortune. I won’t ever forget it!’
‘We ought to help one another; I just wish it never happened. Please, don’t hesitate if you need anything, I’ll be always there for you!’
‘Thank you again. Yes, I’ll remember that, you too, if any time, I can be of any use, always count on me!’
‘Stoja’s willing to help you raise Savo. She’ll teach you how to look after him; he’ll need a good care!’
‘I'm sorry, I promised Rada to look after Savo on my own. That’s my duty and my pleasure. I do appreciate your kind offers. I’m the one who has responsibility for Savo. I’m sure you’ll agree with me, I can’t even contemplate breaking my promise to Rada; my word is my oath. Once again thank you for everything your family has done for me!’
Mitar nods head, goes after the other mourners on his way home.
Jovo concentrates all his attention on Rada's fresh grave in front of him. Absorbed in thoughts, never heard the old priest Radoš footsteps. A gentle touch on his right shoulder brings back to reality.
‘Jovo, my son, in my lifetime, I attend so many funerals, children, lads, girls, soldiers, old people. Today, Rada’s funeral saddens me the most of all. I found it extremely difficult holding tears in my eyes. I wasn’t the only one. I notice many other men fighting back their tears too. What a shame such a wonderful life perishes in a sorrowfully way. Rada was very much loved around here in Vukov Kamen among the people. People adore her. I’m heartbroken losing her.’
‘So do, I! Thank you, Father, for your kind speech. The service it was an excellent one!’
‘If I can in any way ...!’
‘No, thank you. Father you've done enough!’
Jovo shook old priest hands. Radoš goes, leave Jovo alone at the grave; remains one more hour staring at the fresh grave. Takes one final look at Rada's grave resignedly made for home, ‘time to go home to our son Savo; he’s all, I’ve left now!’
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It’s extremely diligently job to raise a child alone. Jovo craves to disprove all skeptics it’s impracticable to bring up son Savo on his own. Regardless of their own workload, people try to help him as much as they could. Gave up understand Jovo's determination to get on with life in his own way. During the winter’s life in the mountain village, it’s extremely tough. A non-stop struggle in severe weather conditions during the winters. Hefty snow usually falls down between November and April each year. A sudden relentless temperature drops the most contributing factor for a weighty snowfall in Vukov Kamen. Temperature drops up to 30'C in a matter of hours; a heavy snow always follows. During winters on a very cold dry night people go to bed. Due to intense snowfall during the night, in the morning when they wake up they can’t open the front door. Appropriately, snowfall changes the image of a tranquil village Vukov Kamen completely. All-around is covered in whiteness, forest, houses, paths and fields. To escape from the white freezing trap people clear the snow as soon as wake up in the morning. It’s early morning on 8th, November 1931. Overnight heavy snow plunges over the village change all in a dense white snow blanket, the previous night; the coldest night of the year. Within Jovo’s house the boy's voice disturbs the peace, ‘wake up, Daddy. A lofty snow fallen overnight. Everything is white!’
‘I know, I saw it, I told you last night the snow is coming. It was unbearably cold, I felt in my bones the snow is coming. Savo, you didn’t believe me. You said it won’t be snow. I was right, wasn't I?’
‘Yes Dad! You were right, you know everything!’
‘Are you ready to clear snow?’
‘Yes, I’m. When we’re going to start?’
‘As soon as we've drunk hot milk, we’ve to prepare ourselves to meet the cold!’
‘Very well, I'm going to warm up the milk!’
‘How good of you, you’re my hero!’
Savo replied busy warming up milk from the stove, ‘Daddy, you’re my hero too!’
‘Do you have everything ready to go?’
‘Dad, everything is ready. I fetched it last night before I went to bed. You were sleeping. I open the wardrobe and brought all my gear just in case!’
‘That's very thoughtful of you; did you remember to take mine as well?’
‘Oh, Dad, of course I did!’
‘I know you did it, I'm just teasing you. It would be better if we move on a little bit, otherwise, we’ll spend all day chatting like two women!’
Drank milk briskly in silence, change into winter clothes. Jovo, limping on the left leg goes to the next room brought out the shovel. As opens the front door of the house, a biting wind flung snow at him, clears the snow from his coat annoyed
‘Enjoy taste of first snow!’
‘Why are you so sarcastic? I hate when wind throws snow at me!’
‘I know you can't stand it. Dad, you always make the same mistake! I don't know why you’ve to repeat it time and again. Why don’t you try a new better approach?’
‘Look at you, you're still so insignificant, but you think you're so smart. All right then, my wise son, tell me what I should do to change my bad habit of making the same silly mistake. Don’t keep me in the dark, tell me!’
‘It's incredibly easy. Daddy, when you open the door, you shouldn't open it all at once. Open barely a bit, enough to put the shovel outside. Clear the snow little bit, enough to open the door. That way won’t be in any danger from the wind. What do you think? Shall we try it to see if, it works or not, Daddy?’
‘Bravo, very clever idea. I never thought of that. I must be getting on; I can't consider any more for myself. Lucky me, you’re with me!’
‘Please, Dad, don't talk like that. It could be to do with pains in your left leg. Since fall from Zelenko you're often in pain; you can't think straight. I can see in your face you’re in the pain right now!’
‘You could be right, my son. I do suffer some discomfort in the winter when it's extremely cold weather; never mind let's try your idea!’
Savo's idea proves to be a good one. After clearing the snow in front of the door progress towards the cowshed, fowl house and food storage hut. Tunnel a little white path wide enough to walk on. For nearly two hours, they clear the snow. Jovo works ahead with a big shovel, Savo right behind with a small shovel. Jovo became tired breathless very easily. Any physical works too much for him; couldn’t leave it all for ten-year-old Savo to do. So many thoughts went through head during snow clearing, ‘those days I get easily so tired. I’m not sleeping enough; pain in left leg killing me. If I could have just one good night's sleep it would be much easier. I don’t want to worry Savo, he’s still a child; wouldn't be fair on him. Full of energy a very happy child! I explained on fifth birthday what happens to his mother. Accept my explanation, never mention his mother, since. Sometimes, I wonder what’s inside his tiny head, what he’s thinking, did really miss the mother? A big boy for his age; fast and excellent climber! Every magpies nest ruined; eggs smashed due to Savo; aka the egg-hunter. All older boys in Vukov Kamen afraid of him, however, all boys adore him too!’
After finishing clearing the snow, they move to a cow-shed to milk and feed the cows and after that to feed the domestic fowl. Shortly, all jobs accomplished.
‘That'll be all for now my son. Let’s go back indoors before we catch cold!’
‘Dad, you go indoors. I want to build a snowman. I promise I'll be careful!’
‘Savo, as you wish. I don't want you to catch cold. You have half an hour to build your snowman. I want to see you inside a warm room. Do you hear me? Do I make myself clear or do I’ve to repeat?’
‘No Dad, you don’t need to repeat. I promise I'll be inside in half an hour. I'm sure; I can finish my snowman at that time!’
‘All right then; your time is ticking away!’
Limping heavily on left leg went inside the house. Taking off sodden gloves, boots, scarf, woollen hat and winter coat, sits down on a small chair near to open fireplace. Fingers aching frozen from cold weather suppose, ‘I need the sun for aching bones. I can’t wait enough for the summer to come again. All through long hot sunny days, I enjoy sitting beneath the plum tree. Soak up sunshine to ease pains in the left leg!’
Pain in leg reminds him, it’s time for massage. Massage aching leg, rumbling in the stomach reminded it's the time; prepare something for breakfast. Considered what to cook made up mind; Savo's favorite meal. Boiled eggs, dry beef, freshly baked bread. This morning in a hurry to clear the snow, forgot to put the bread in the oven; too late to bake bread now. There are some bread leftovers from the previous night, ‘I’m going to stick it in the oven to warm up. In the meantime the eggs will be boiling, that’ll do for now!’
A quick glance at the wall clock almost ten o'clock. Three quarters of an hour are gone already, since Savo start building his snowman. Went to a nearby window, outside the window a gigantic snowman met eyes obscuring the entire window frame. Stares at it astounded, ‘look at that, if I didn’t see it with my own eyes, I wouldn't believe it! Even when, I was much older than he is now, I couldn’t build a snowman half that size in such a short time. No chance. Now, I know why all the children around adore him. Savo is something very special, original and unique. There’s not any other boy around strong enough too much him!’
Smell of burnt bread wafted into nostrils, reminds him on bread in the oven warming up. Walks off to the oven open it. One side of bread a little bit burnt; it’s still edible. Eggs are inside a tiny pot boiled ready to eat. Served breakfast on the table shouted, ‘Savo the breakfast is getting cold!’
‘I'm coming in one minute; just add up head to my snowman!’
Jovo couldn’t see him, waits for a while, shouts again, ‘Savo, are you coming in or do I’ve to come out and fetch you in. It's nearly one hour since you start to build your snowman.’
Savo declares behind his back with a big smile on his face, ‘Daddy, I'm here, don't shout. I can hear you! Did you see my snowman? Isn't it a gigantic one? I've never built a bigger one before in my life! What do you think?’
From drenched clothes, water drips on the floor.
‘Look at you, you’re soaked! Quick take off those soaked clothes before catch cold! What’s the matter with you; do you hear what I’ve told you? I said half an hour, you stay over one hour? You’ll be still in that blizzard, if I didn’t call. You broke your promise, must learn to keep all your promises! I’ve to punish you to teach you a lesson! I’ve to think about how to punish you, something you’ll always remember as long as you live!’
‘I'm sorry, Dad. I was excited over my snowman. I forgot at the time it passes quickly. Next time I’ll..’
There won't be a next time! You’re going nowhere outside of this room. Stop talking, take off those wet clothes and put on dry ones. Breakfast will be stone cold by the time you finish talking about silly snowman!’
‘Yes Dad!’
After removing wet clothes, Savo put on fresh ones already waiting in the chair, sat down at the table. Jovo waits for him to eat breakfast together as they always did. Jovo taught his son to recite a prayer before every meal for the rest of his life three times each day. Remind Savo of his religious duties, ‘now, it's the time for our breakfast prayer! Dear GOD, Jesus Christ. Thank you for giving me this food to eat to regenerate my strength and ensure my existence. For your generous gift, I promise, I’ll obey your laws. Abide your glorious name and your faith for the rest of my life. In the name of the father the son and holy spirit, Amen!’
Jovo made the sign of the cross. Savo follows the same. Ate breakfast in silence, Jovo keeps serious face all the time. Pretending as if he’s very annoyed not showing the real excitement, pride in his achievement. Receive any kind of success like a grown man not like a spoil child. His heart dances madly, he’ll rather jump up (despite pain in the leg) than pretend as if angry with him; it’s all for Savo's benefit. Needs a strong hand and strict discipline all the time, can’t show weakness. It’ll affect him emotionally. On the other side of the table, Savo's thoughts entirely of a different nature, ‘Dad is right, I’ve to make sure don't get carried away. What’s special about a snowman? Every little girl in Vukov Kamen could easily build a snowman without any fuss. I waste all this time on my snowman. It would be more useful if I cook a breakfast instead. I know his leg it must be hurting him too much. It must be painful. I know suffer in silence; that’s my Dad. He’ll do anything to make my life easier and better. Even risk his life for me. Three years ago, almost died all thanks to my stupid idea to ride on Zelenko's back through the forest. I drove him crazy every day to take me with him on Zelenko. I ignored Dad’s explanations of the dangers; I’m still tiny to ride. I’ll never forget what happened that summer three years ago, when we rode through the forest on Zelenko's massive back. Zelenko reared on front legs scared by a snake through the grass. Dad holds me in arms all the time, thereby falling down on left-hand leg. Since that accident, leg causes him a constant pain. He knew all the time how it’s so dangerous taking me with him. If stood by his principles, would be still a normal man today, not crippled man as he’s, now. The pain aged him, looks much older than thirty-one year old!’ vowing to make more efforts in the future not to repeat the same mistakes.
Outside the house voice's resonance in his ears bring back to reality, ran to the window to see who it is outside there. The view outside the window obstructed by a mammoth white snowman, instead of faces, hears voices, ‘wow! Look at this gigantic snowman. Pajo it's a real giant. I wouldn't be able to make one-half that sizes even in a whole day!’
‘We all know that. Ranko! You’re just Ranko, not Savo. Don’t be so surprised, we all know what you can do. Savo could have his eyes blindfolded, and his right hand tied behind his back, he’ll finish his snowman before you are halfway. Am I telling the truth?’
‘Yes, that's correct!’
All other children are looking with envy at Savo’s huge snowman. Savo comes outside the house standing in front of them proud like a peacock with tail fanned out ‘do you like my snowman?’
‘Of course, we all do. When you’ve some spare time would you mind teaching, Ranko how to craft a snowman! It gives me a headache teaching him every time when it snows. As you know, I don’t have too much patience with him at all; Maybe you’ll more than me!’
‘Yes, of course. It’ll be pleasure to teach your cousin Ranko how to craft a snowman. Dad taught me how...”!’
‘Great, Savo can you start tomorrow please? I can't wait to learn from you! All night I’ll wait with excitement in the morning to come, so I can come here..!’
‘If you interrupt once more when Savo's talking, I promise you’ll be awake all night with the pains. Be quiet listen you might learn something useful. Do you understand? I give you my word, you know me; I always keep my promise!’
‘I understand it won’t happen again!’
Savo concluded standing between two of them, ‘Pajo, it's all right, don't be hard-on Ranko. He loves to learn to make a snowman, that’s not a problem. We don't want to waste our opportunity for skiing guys, do we?’
Pajo answered on behalf of all boys ‘of course, not. That's reason for all of us to come to see you. Would you like to join us?’
‘Silly question, of course I love to join you guys. I'll be ready in a few minutes, just to put on skiing clothes and let know Dad where we're going!’
‘Don't rush, take your time, we’ll wait!’
Savo goes inside swaps clothes put back on still wet clothes. Opened the door of the next room, get inside looking at father sitting next to the fire. Jovo notices Savo's changed clothes, ‘why did you put on your soaking clothes? Where are you going?’
‘I'm going skiing with Pajo and other boys!’
‘Did you ask me for permission? If I remember rightly, you didn't?’
‘No, Dad, I didn't. I assure Pajo and other boys I’ll go with them; I can't lie, can I?’
‘What about your punishment? Your memory is fading away. Scarcely half an hour ago, we agreed your punishment would be to stay indoors all day! What about that, Savo?’
‘We agreed? Dad, I never say a single word. I just listen while you’re talking. Dad, you know very well, if one of us disagrees about anything, the matter it’s postponed. I never agreed about any kind of punishment. The issue it’s still open for discussion. Tonight after my return, we’ll sit down and talk about my punishment. In the meantime, I’ve to go now. Dad, I can’t keep Pajo and other boys waiting any longer. Outside it is too cold it wouldn’t be fair. I'll try not to be late, but I can't promise you anything. It’s up to the boys and Pajo. We’re going jointly, and we will be back together. See you later, bye for now!’
Savo finishes his little conversation goes outside the room leaving him speechless and defeated. Eyes wide opened in amazement pride with excitement welling up, ‘what a strong character my son is! I don't believe my eyes and my ears, he’s just a ten-year-old boy. Showed strength like a grown man, acted like an adult, didn't give me a chance to say a single word!’ Thoughtful, looks outside the window, the snowman is still there huge and impressive, now, deserted. The children went; his son among them. Youngest, yet strongest; like a real leader. His heart beats faster talks in the empty room, ‘Rada, I wish just for a moment, you could see our son Savo. Grown up as a big strong boy, I'm sure if you could see him, you’ll be very happy and proud. I did keep my promise given to you; that day when he was born!’
A solitary tear glided down cheek, wipes it away with a forefinger. Next tear followed immediately. One by one, start flooding from eyes freely, stops wiping cheeks. At first tears, ran first tentatively then faster like a flood in the spring.
Early morning on 06 April 1941, all it is quiet, people in Vukov Kamen still sleeping. Savo lit a gas lamp, leisurely dressed up, making sure not to wake up, Jovo sleeping in the next room. Walk across the room to a wooden window moving as quietly as possible. Lifts latch on the window, gentle push, opens the window outwards. Place hands on a lower part of the window look up at the sky over head. It’s still dark; a few shy stars occupy a lightening sky. First moments of the sunrise, it’s magical. A few of the birds in the nearby forest sang a cheerful song. Turns head towards singing birds with a smile on face whispers, ‘I love watching sunrise when come into view from a bottom of the Montenegrin Sea. What a magnificent view. Looking at the redness of the sun it’ll be a hot and nice day today. That’s exactly what I like; father can go outside soak up some of the glorious weather for left leg!’
For a while, watches the sunrise and singing birds flying from one tree to another. Closes the window returns to the room. Moving from the window, make a gigantic shadow in the room covering nearly all the room with its shape. With massive hands like two giant shovels, bolts a tiny window latches. Every move gave an impression of a young man full of confidence who knows exactly what he’s doing in any situation. The aura of Savo's exuded as an unwritten message to all people. Not to approach him without a good reason and only in a friendly manner.
A voice from another room broke the silence, ‘Savo, is that you, up already?’
Savo left room open father’s room, ‘yes, Father it's me, good morning sorry to wake you up!’
‘Good morning Savo. Don't worry, I’m awake. All night I couldn’t sleep; can we talk?’
‘What’s the matter; don't you feel well?’
‘I’m fine, it’s so strange, I don’t feel any pains at all!’
‘What's wrong, what’s worrying you, then?’
‘I’ve some strange feelings; soon we’re going to split up. That’s what is worrying me, keeping me awake all night.’
‘Father, come on what you’re talking about. Tell me how we’re going to split up? I’m not going anywhere from here, you know that, don't you?’
‘I know that, something inside telling me as if some sixth sense is warning me. It looks like that dream it’s the truth after all.’
‘Dream, what dream? I don’t have a clue what you are after? For GOD'S SAKE tell me what this is all about. I don't like any bit of it!’
‘Calm down it's not good if you get agitated. Please, don’t look at me like that. Sit here on the bed next to me. Don’t worry I'll tell you all; I don't like shouting at you!’
Savo obedient as a child sat on the edge of the bed, ‘tell me all about it!’
‘Three nights ago, I had a dream. We’re walking together somewhere unknown. I don’t know the purpose or route of our travels. We walk for a very long time until encounter some people crying. Some of them lay with eyes open, motionless like living corpses. On our journey, we saw burnt houses, dead animals, lost children and so many other unnatural things. We just kept going followed by bizarre sad looks from the people we met during our journey. On their faces fear and signs of suffering. None of those faces show any smile, we never talk; we just look at one another kept moving onward. All at once, I was alone; turn around in a circle looking for you. You’re gone. I started calling your name. Silence! Just silence. I start walking ahead again looking for you. I don’t know how long for, I walked alone, it must be for a long time. You came up from nowhere. I was very glad to see you again; you’re silent looking differently. You’re barefoot, wearing some new clothes, some kind of uniform, short trousers, terse sleeves. You look like a grown man in a tiny child's uniform. Look at me for a while, unsteady, mouth open, try to say something, the words never came out. Turning back to me, walk away from me again. I try to stop you, my legs as if glued to the spot. I called you for a very long helpless. When I wake up, I was soaking wet from sweating. Savo, I'm so scared!’
‘Father, come on what’s the matter with you? Are you going soft on me? Surely, you don’t believe in dreams! That’s for women, not for you!’
‘I don't know, some people say dreams it can foresee what’s going to happen. I want you to know that!’
‘For Christ's sake what can happen? Father, I don’t get you. I can’t see anything wrong that can happen, it was just a bad dream, that's all!’
‘Maybe you're right, it’s just a dream! I don’t want to lose you. You’re all I’ve left. Savo, I can't bear to live alone!’
‘Father, you’re worrying me! You become like an old woman who sees death in everything! Why should you lose me? It is pure nonsense, I would never leave you! Why should I? We are happy living together here in Vukov Kamen. I know life it’s very hard, and you are getting older, but don't forget, I’m not a child any more. Next month I'll be twenty years old. I’m at the peak of my health and strength. Tell me but be honest, do you know anyone in the whole of Bijelo Polje commune, stronger than me?’
‘No, Savo, without any doubt you’re the strongest man around!’
‘Father, aren’t you happy with me? I must to know!’
‘Of course, I’m happy with you! Why do you ask you know that without telling you?’
‘So, then the problem is solved!’
‘Savo, I’m concerned about something else! The War it could break out, Hitler is marching across the Europe. I hear from Mitar of demonstrations in Belgrade and about broken pact with the Germans. Savo, do you know anything about that?’
‘No father, I’m not interested in the politics. Why should I be? Anyway, what did you call him, I forget his name that the German leader.’
‘Hitler!’
‘Yes, that Hitler, I don't see any reason coming all this way, risk neck coming here to our poor, empty Montenegrin mountains, when have other richer countries nearer to his German homeland?’
‘I agree with you, completely. However, in war, you can never be certain. The war is like a vast forest fire, dry branches and leaves burn at one spot. The fire gets bigger and stronger, help by the wind. Before long, it’s a very powerful destroys everything in its path, trees, animals, houses, and humans. It’s the same with the wars. When the First World War started, it was just a little conflict in Bosnia. Quickly it spread around the world lasting for the whole four years?’
‘Father, it was over twenty-five years ago when everything….’
At that precise moment, outside Savo's bedroom window, someone knocks very hard outside of the window. With forefinger to his mouth gestured to his father to keep silent.
They both wait. After the first knock came a second one a little harder this time, ‘Savo, wake up!’
‘Pajo, is that you?’
‘Yes, it is me. Where are you?’
‘I'm with the father. I'm all set, I'll be with you in a moment just to say good-bye to father!’
‘What’s that so important to go out so early? I hope you’re not going to do anything dangerous or silly. Savo, I don't want any trouble!’
‘Father, when are you going to start treating me like an adult instead of a child all the time? I’ll never do anything chancy. Life it’s dangerous enough as it is in those treacherous mountains and paths. I’m not going to do anything stupid either. Everyone knows me as your son. I’ll never disgrace our family name. I’ll never allow anybody spit upon our house or point a finger at us as a symbol of shame. If you must know, I’m going with Pajo to the forest around Pavlove Kolibe in search for oak trees. Pajo wants to build a house, wants to get married. Needs a new house for his bride, you know their house. It’s too small for one more being. That’s our secret. Pajo doesn't want anybody to know about it. Can you keep a secret?’
‘You’ve my word. When do you think you’ll be back?’
‘Hard to say, we’ll try to return as soon as we can!’
‘Have you got any food with you? You’ll be hungry all day; you must eat!’
‘That’s Pajo's responsibility. My duties are to cut down trees with my notoriously sharp axe that is all.’
‘Better get move on. Earlier, you go, sooner you'll be back home; we could talk like this all day!’
‘Father, don't worry too much. Tonight, we can talk about that Hitler and anything else you want. In the meantime, I'm off, see you when I get home; have a good day!’
‘Good day to you too, don't worry about me. I'll be all right, I can look after myself. I look forward seeing you later again!’
‘Me too!’
Jovo stare at the empty doorway, where Savo's massive figure comes out, felt alone, anxious listen to footsteps echoing in the quiet morning until it died away.
Savo and Pajo walk quietly through the sleeping village. Sounds of their boot echo through early morning. Reaching to the forest Pajo broke silence, ‘Savo, why did you’ve to wake up your father. It supposes to be our secret?’
‘I swear, he was already awake, had a sleepless night. He’s very worried about me! A few nights ago, had some mysterious dream. In his dream, we’re walking together, witnessed so many horrible things. I left him alone, later, when we met again, I’m wearing some kind of uniform. I’m trying to say something, but as if lost voice left him again turn back on him. Pajo, he’s very frightened. I try to calm him down reassuring it’s just a dream. His fears are there will be a war against the Germans. You came and interrupt us when, started talking about the First World War. What do you know about my family history?’
‘Not a lot. I promise keep it as a secret, tell me everything!’
‘It’s not any secret my both parents’ families are killed during the First World War; he only survived.
‘I see. That’s the reason why your father always avoids any conversation about the war? I wonder why; now I know!’
‘Also, mentions Hitler and the German advance across the Europe! I pretend as if I never heard of Hitler. We both recognize, it won't be too long before Hitler sends his troops to attack us; don't we?’
‘Unfortunately, that is the truth. What are you going to do, if the war breaks out? Have you thought about it? Do you have any plans or suggestions?’
‘What can I do other than fight? I don't care how strong Hitler is, I’m not going to allow him to ruin my mother's grave. I’m going to defend the motherland, father and all the neighbours in Vukov Kamen. Hitler can cross over my dead body. I’ll fight against him, until the last drop of blood drain from my body. That’s what I’m going to do, that’s my plan. What you’re going to do?
‘Same as you, Hitler still doesn't know who we’re. We’re not some little children scared to death at the mention of his name. We’re the Montenegrins. The Turkish Empire tries for nearly six centuries to make us lick their boots. After six centuries of conflicts, battlefields and struggles, they’ve to admit defeat. Our victory it’s as clear as crystal. We’re small but very proud people. Hitler can come today if he likes. He’ll have to face our real strength from the first moment his foot touches our land!’
‘We can rely on one another as two blood brothers. I don't have a brother, but, I’ve you, Pajo, my bosom friend!’
‘Savo, I’ll give my life to save yours my bosom friend!'
‘Me too, I’m prepared to sacrifice my life saving your life, my bosom friend Pajo!’
They kiss each other's cheeks three times, then, embrace.
‘Let's concentrate on our target now, shall we? What kind of house had you got in mind? What size do you think it’ll be big enough for you and your bride? Talking about your bride who is she? Do I know her?’
‘Slow down, what's the hurry? As if you don't have a minute more to live, want to know everything in a rush. As my real brother from this day forwards, you’ll know all my secrets. You’ll have all your answers one at a time. First, our target is Pavlove Kolibe that’s our main task for now. After that, we'll take things from there as they come!’
‘Brother Pajo, you’re right; Pavlove Kolibe here we come!’
Start walking again over their heads, the sun climbs higher towards blue sky.
Once Savo's and Pajo's set off towards Pavlove Kolibe, Jovo lay still in his bed. One hour later, fed up lying gets up goes to milk cows, feed the cattle and domestic fowls. After all jobs are done, returns to room cook breakfast, scrambled eggs, bread and hot milk. After taking just a couple of bites stop eating. Despite feeling ravenous lost appetite, return to conversation with Savo. Regardless of trying very hard think of something besides, returns to his conversation with his son. It seems as if the time moving unusually sluggish, kept changing places, can’t sit at the same place for too long; Savo still remains in Pavlove Kolibe. Around ten o'clock in the morning, some strange strong sound emanated from a direction of Bijelo Polje. Very confused, never heard anything like that sound before. Around two o'clock, in the afternoon neighbour Aleksa Stošić came, all over face troubled signs.
‘Did you hear that strange sound around ten o'clock this morning? Do you know what it was?’
Jovo reply nodding his head, ‘yes, I heard it! I don't know what it was!’
‘It was the announcement of beginning a conflict against the Germans. Early this morning their airplanes heavily bombard Belgrade destroys houses. Many people are dead!’
Jovo thought to himself, ‘I knew it. My dream happens to be the truth. Dreams always tell the truth!’
Face white likes a ghost, lost in thoughts, didn't take any notice of Aleksa talking about Belgrade’s bombardment.
Mobilization of new recruits for defence against the Germans invasion takes place in the town hall of Bijelo Polje. The town-hall building, a very ancient building situates 200 meters away from the river Lim. All through the First World War, the building it’s used as stables for horses and mules. During a post-war period on the identical spot, there is erected a new town hall. Iron gates and boxes for horses and mules dismantled, replaced with modern town quarters. Following Belgrade’s assault by the German Forces on 6 April 1941, all parts of the “Kingdom of Yugoslavia” enforced to mobilize the army for defending the Kingdom.
The news of mobilization like a fire spreads so quickly. Military couriers inform all the suburbs around Bijelo Polje commune. Mobilization takes place inside the town hall on 7th April, starting at very early hours.
Just after three o'clock in the afternoon, a messenger turns up at Vukov Kamen, goes from house-to-house reading memorandum. All inhabitants in Vukov Kamen are illiterate. The messenger found Jovo sitting inside his house alone. After finding out Jovo is illiterate the messenger interprets, ‘every male from the age of eighteen to fifty-five compels to turn up at the town-hall for a selection process in defending our kingdom and our king, his Highness Petar Second Karadjordjevic. Every male in good health is obliged to attend early tomorrow morning for a full medical examination for soldierly duties. Immediately after medical examinations all-new selected recruits obliged to attend armed training camps. Every male disregarding military service will be regarded as a traitor, dealt swiftly with in accordance with the military laws. Anyone found guilty will be punished. The punishment it’s death execution in front of a firing squad!’
After a brief discussion, the messenger witnesses Jovo heavily limping on his left leg, guarantees Jovo, call-up it didn’t apply to him; his fighting days over for good.
Returning from the forests around Pavlove Kolibe early that evening, Savo and Pajo found Jovo very upset. Discover the war started; have to go the next morning to sign up.
‘Did the messenger mention what time exactly?’
‘He just said beforehand as possible, I presume from five o'clock. There will be so many people to see. If they plan to select all the recruits by tomorrow night, they must start very early in the morning!’
‘Did he say what we need to bring with us?’
‘No, didn't. I suppose you don’t need anything. All you need, they have thereabouts already waiting for everybody. They must know it!’
Jovo finishes speaking, stare in front of him on the floor. Savo looks at Pajo, wondering if, he knew what Jovo meant to say. Pajo just shrugs shoulders as a sign of his own confusion.
‘Father, I’m lost what do you mean they must know it?
‘For that bloody Hitler, to come here, that's what I mean!’
First time ever, Savo heard father talking in that manner. Kept feelings inside for a very long time, couldn’t control his feelings any longer. Pajo never saw Savo's father before in those circumstances, decides to go home. Standing up offer hand, ‘Uncle Jovo, it’s time for me to go home. I don't know when we’ll see each other again. I hope very soon. I’m sure this war will not last for too long. The Germans, if they come here at all, they’ll realize this is no place for them. Anyway, Savo, me and others, we’ll help them to change their minds and go back wherever they come from. In the meantime, I wish you a good health. Look after yourself, good-bye for now, Jovo!’
‘Look after you and GOD will look after you, too, my beloved son Pajo. I’m certain I’ll see you again, very soon!’
Savo follows, Pajo all the way to the end of his property. Once they’re alone a long way from Jovo's earshot, Savo speaks for the first time since hearing the news, ‘brother Pajo, if we survive the war, our time is coming to become heroes!’
‘I’m sure we’ll survive! Brother Savo, we’re born survivors!’
‘Yes, I do know that, better if you go, don't forget we’ve to wake up again very early tomorrow morning. Have a good rest; sleep well. Who will know when you’ll have another chance after tomorrow? See you in the morning!’
‘See you in the morning. God night, you too, sleep well!’
They shook hands each goes his way. Over Savo's head, the moon emerges from a gigantic black cloud, manages to open the door of his house at the same time, all over in the village the moonlight glow.
The next morning outside the town hall, the queues get bigger all the time. People arrive from all directions in small groups or as individuals. All age groups dress in distinctive clothes, sizes and shapes. Some of those people incredibly thin and tall over two meters high, while others small and plump. A group of uniformed soldiers separates every newcomer in two columns. In first column reserved for tall, strong, young and middle age men. In second column reserved for short, overweight, weak and elderly men.
Savo arrives alongside Pajo and Ranko at half past six in the morning. Reaching the end of the queue one of the soldiers instantly divides them in two different columns. Orders Ranko to wait; leads Savo and Pajo to join the first column. A soldier observes Ranko's childish face, ‘how old are you lad?’
‘I’ll be twenty two in June! Why do you ask, I like to know?’
‘Are you sure, you’re almost twenty two?’
‘Of course I'm sure!’
‘Hm, I don't trust you! Are you trying to make a fool of me?’
‘What do you mean, you don't trust me? Are you saying I’m lying?’
‘No, I’m not saying you are lying those are my orders. You look very young, thirteen or perhaps fourteen; that’s all!’
‘Pajo, please tell him how old I’m?’
‘In June twenty-two, that’s the truth, I’m his cousin!’
The soldier shrugs shoulders ‘all right. I don't have any more time to reason with you. Go in this column and wait for your turn. The general will decide what to do with you!’ concluded the soldier; escort Ranko further down to the end of a longer column. Leaving Ranko in the queue the soldier returns shaking his head as in disbelief; goes to attend a small group of people just arrives.
Savo and Pajo look at one another, ‘what’s going to happen to Ranko, now?’
‘It’s hard to tell at this stage. Maybe, he’s still too young for a soldier? Who knows? Later, we’ll find out what happen to him.’
‘If they reject him, it’ll be a massive blow to him. A real disaster, gave us a headache with his stories. He’s going to show the Germans, who Ranko Stošić is. Every time they hear his name, they’ll be scared to death, going on and on. He’s always the same, talks like a child never stops. The Germans occupied more than half of Europe. Nobody can stop them, except Ranko!’
They started laughing, people around looking at them strangely.
‘I feel sorry for him, not bad at all, loves to talk a lot. Sometimes goes over the top, bore you to death!’
‘So many times, I wish escaping from his ordeal. I can’t upset Uncle Rajko. My uncle Rajko is always good to me; otherwise, I would turn back on him a long time ago. Loves to copy others, even if knew, unable to do the same. I’m sure you must still remember about ten years ago embarrassment outside your house when you build a gigantic snowman!’
‘How can I forget it, I’ll always remember it as long as I live!’
Start laughing again, this time louder tears race from eyes. Busy wiping tears didn’t notice the soldier came up interrupt smirk and chatter, ‘come on get in. It’s your turn! Let's see you’re going still to laugh after finishing inside; I’m not so sure that’ll be the case!’
Pajo left the queue, follow a soldier towards the town-hall door. Savo watch Pajo's enormous figure disappear inside. Waits a few minutes longer, a different soldier, calls him. Walking behind the soldier, Savo enter inside the town-hall. A lengthy corridor, alongside each side on the walls suited white doors, equidistant from one another. Above his head, high in the ceiling, three bulky light bulbs hanging on the electric cable. Emit dominant lighting inside the corridor, brighter inside than outside in daylight, spot white bulbs. Reaching the middle bulb, stop underneath; raises head towards the ceiling. Wants to know what it is exactly. In his village, people utilize gas lamps to light their houses at night. This was something enhanced and different. The bulb illuminated a wide area no matter how bleak it’s outside. Besides it looks fascinating than any candles or gas lamp.
Soldier calls from a distance knocking on the door, ‘hey you, what are you doing there? Come over here?’
Savo ask walking towards the soldier, ‘what’s that? I’ve never seen it before? In my village, Vukov Kamen, we use gas lamps to light house at night!’
‘You’re so silly country man. Its electric light bulb, got it, now, go in!’
The soldier opens the door. With hand sign direct Savo to go inside? Briskly closing the door Savo spots a man seated behind a big wooden table. Some papers in front of the man fluttering around the room caused by Savo abrupt appearance. Quick glances at the man of a strong physique with a bushy moustache. The man looks a few years older than his father Jovo. Moves forward to collect flying papers lying on the floor in front of him. The man stands up and shut the window behind him. Once collecting all the papers lying on the floor Savo hand over to a man.
‘Thank you, sit down!’
Savo sat at the offered chair looking at the man. For a while, there is a silence within the room except sound from the man sorting out the papers; watched man's confident hand gestures.
The man takes a folder lying in front of him at the wooden table asks loudly, ‘what’s your name?’
‘Savo Radunović!’
‘Where do you come from?’
‘Vukov Kamen!’
‘When you’re born?’
‘11 May 1921!’
‘What’s your father’s name?’
‘Jovo Radunović!’
‘What’s your mother’s name?’
‘I don't have a mother!’
The man lifts his eyes from the table looking at Savo inquire, ‘what do you mean, you don't have mother?’
‘She died during my birth, Sir!’
‘I’m sorry to hear that. What was her name?’
‘Rada.’
‘Can you read, write and count?’
‘No!’
‘Do you’ve any illness now, or did you ever have?’
‘No Sir, always healthy!’
‘Can you see clearly?’
‘Better, than an owl in the night!’
‘Can you run fast?’
‘I’m the fastest man in Vukov Kamen and surrounding villages!’
‘Can you carry heavy loads?’
‘I can carry a bag of potatoes in each hand!’
‘Are you scared of the dark?’
‘No Sir, I spend many nights alone in the forest!’
The man stops asking any more questions focus on writing on the paper in front of him. Savo looks around the room. Notice on the wall behind him, a large picture of a young man in uniform with a big hat on the head along with numerous medals across chest. Man’s hat is distinctive; unusual shape. Savo busy looking at the picture, didn't notice the man in front of him finish writing looking at him a broad smile on his face. Leave briefly, Savo gazing at a picture, cough a couple of time. Savo apologized ‘sorry, Sir, my apologies!’
‘No need to apologize, do you know who that man is?’
‘No sir. I haven't seen him before!’
‘It’s our King, His Highness Petar Second Karadjordjević!’
Looking at the man, ‘the King, Father never told me, we have the King!'
‘He‘s two years younger than you!’
‘Younger than me and he’s the King!’
‘You’ve the honour and duty to serve in his Highness' army and to defend his kingdom from our enemies. Savo, do you understand what your honour and duty are?’
‘Yes Sir, to serve in his Highness' army!’
The man looked at the door shouts, ‘soldier.'
The same soldier came in, salutes next to Savo sitting in chair, ‘yes, sir, your orders are my duty!’
Holding papers in the right hand the man replies, ‘take Recruit Radunović to Captain Arsić!’
The soldier takes the papers, saluted again. Inside the corridor, Savo again glances at the white eclectic’s bulbs suspended from the ceiling.
‘Recruit Radunović this way!"
‘Yes sir!’
They went to the opposite side of the town hall. The soldier opens the heavy white door. Points at the queue outside the door instruct, ‘wait there for your name to call out!’
The soldier gave the papers to another soldier outside. Savo starts to search for Pajo's and Ranko's faces. They aren’t there all the faces around him unfamiliar, went at the back of the queue. The sun already raised high in the sky. On some of the faces a tiny scarlet mark appears around the nose. Those people waited a quite long time unprotected by the sun’s fierce rays. Seen those red faces, knew it’ll be long-drawn-out the time, before his name’s called out. The hot sun reminds him of his father, started thinking, make an effort to kill long hours of waiting ahead.
  Â
Ranko Stošić feels frustrated and angry. Stack in a lengthy queue reserved for elderly and fragile people. Never had to wait in his village Vukov Kamen; there wasn't any need for that. People knew one another very well. Their lives as if an open book for everyone to read. Never saw a crowd as big as this one in his entire life. Alone amongst unknown people confuse, uncertain what to do. In any situation, needs help Pajo’s permanently there as his brain. Pajo taught him everything with solutions and answers. Without Pajo trouble-free life is unfeasible. All people around him are unfamiliar. Some of those people even older than next-door neighbour Mitar Jokić; suddenly died last spring, consider, ‘neighbour Mitar was a very good man, with a massive smile on face, always kind to me. Pity died, I wish was here with me to cheer me up!’
Distinguishes a tall broad shoulders man left the queue, following a soldier disappears inside the town hall. Even at that distance recognize, ‘its Savo!’ Left the queue stood on the side trying to spot Pajo, ‘surely he must be next!’ Shortly, the man follows a soldier; unfamiliar. Colourful well-designed jacket shorter figure convinces Ranko it wasn’t Pajo. In head, the alarm bells rang, ‘what’s happen to Pajo? Where is he?’
Inside head swam so many unanswered questions ‘Who knows, maybe, he went before Savo?’ Tries staying optimistic, thoughts fled instantly when an elderly gentle soft voice behind back, brought back to reality.
‘Hey young man, go back in the queue. I appreciate you’re impatient like all of us! We want to get over with it and return home as well. With the army it’s never certain. They like to take time. Just be more patient our turn it’ll come as well!’
Very embarrassed quickly returns to his place in the queue, sooner than the old man finishes lectures.
All around him, quiet again, felt hungry and thirsty. Early in the morning leave home just after four o'clock without any breakfast or drinks. It’s about breakfast time now, he’s certain of that. Had peculiar intuition about the time, always eats his breakfast at this time in the morning. Can guess when’s due eating just looking at the sun. The sun is getting hotter, further, ahead someone shouts to a soldier on his way to the town hall, ‘hey, soldier I’m thirsty! Could you bring some water, please?’
A few minutes afterward, a soldier brought a few water bottles hands around bottles to people. At last, the bottle reaches to him; there are a few drops left. Drank all remain water hand over the empty bottle to a soldier. At two o'clock in the afternoon, follows a soldier inside the town hall. A soldier opens the door Ranko walks behind him. Inside the corridor outside a very first door to the right-hand side, a soldier stop, knock on the white door. There is silence; after a while, a soldier knocks again this time a bit louder. The voice inside the door calls, ‘come in!’
The soldier moves near to the wall, indicates Ranko to go inside the room. Ranko opens the door walks in slowly, heart beating fast like a tiny bird trap inside a cage. A half-bald man, standing behind a massive wooden table looks at Ranko when entered the room. A thickset bull neck, two sizable hands like two shovels scared Ranko instantly. Appeared like a monster; never saw a bigger man than this one. Above two meters high, even Savo looks insignificant compare to him.
Gazes at Ranko softly voice, ‘my child, have you lost someone?’
‘No, I come to sign up. I want to fight against the Germans!
Gazing at Ranko the man laughs vigorously, ‘what, you a soldier!’ Leave wooden table holding hands behind back, walks around Ranko in a circle. After ending ritual, the man sat on the edge of a wooden table in front of Ranko standstill on the same spot; gigantic body scared him even more.
‘What’s your name, son?’
‘Ranko Stošić!’
‘Where do you come from?’
‘Vukov Kamen!’
‘How old are you?’
‘I’ll be twenty two on the sixth of June!’
‘What, twenty-two! You must be joking!’
‘Honestly, that is true! I’ll be twenty-two on!’
‘I don't believe you! Have you got anything with you as proof of your age?’
‘No! I didn't know that I'd need it!’
‘How can I believe you? You want me to recruit you, but you can’t prove your age! Have you got any good reasons, wanting to be a soldier?’
‘I want to fight against the Germans! I want to kill the lot of them with my own hands.’
The man's grow red, voice wild, ‘you want to kill the Germans? Have you ever killed an animal? Do you know what the killing it's about?’
‘No, I never kill any animals, but I went out hunting wolves in the last year during the winter. My cousin, Pajo killed one wolf. I witness it with my own eyes! If you don't believe me, you can ask him. We came together to join up alongside with our neighbour Savo Radunović!’
‘Stop right there. You want to fight the Germans, but you never carried any weapon or kill an animal is that true?’
‘Yes that is true!’
Half-bald man stood up. Start pace the floor. Ranko turns around to watch the man walking, notices on the wall behind his back a large picture. A very young uniformed man, lots of medals across his chest.
‘Strip off to your waist!’
Leisurely, starts taking off clothes, place on the chair next to him. While taking off clothes, stares at the picture on the wall. Half-bald man comes around half naked Ranko. Compresses fingers inside delicate muscles on his arms; somehow manage to sustain the pain caused by probing fingers.
‘Look, son! I appreciate your courage and desire fight against the Germans. It’s too dangerous. You could be killed! I would never forgive myself if anything happens to you! I don’t want to have you on my conscience! I would strongly advise you as your own father go home forget about the Germans! Maybe, one day when you grow up much stronger, if we didn’t send the Germans back home to the Germany, perhaps, then, we’ll need you. This is a serious matter for adults not for boys! Soldier.’
The same soldier enters inside saluted ‘yes, Sir waiting for orders!’
‘Make sure send this boy home to the village of Vukov Kamen!’
‘Indeed, Sir!’ A soldier saluted again, turning to Ranko orders, ‘follow me!'
Ranko felt betrayed, protested, ‘what about him?’ points at the large picture hanging on the wall. ‘He’s young too, but, he’s a soldier. How it’s for him possible to be a soldier, but not for me. Injustice, it’s a pure injustice!’
‘Son, he’s not a soldier, son! He’s our King, His Highness Petar Second Karadjordjević!’
Ranko look once more at the picture at the wall. As if try remembering the face shrugs shoulders, followed a soldier outside the room. Outside the town hall, there are still extensive queues. The soldier turns left at the end of queues into a small quiet street avoid crowds. Leaving the town hall, using shortcuts escort Ranko to the path leading towards Vukov Kamen. Point with a forefinger on the path, ‘this is the way to Vukov Kamen! You know that, don't you?’
‘Yes, of course I know that! What do you think, I’m a small child?’
‘All right then, on your feet, go home! If you don't want walking through the forests during a night, if I wear you, hurry up!’
Ranko desperately cast last look around hoping to spot Pajo or Savo. They’ve vanished, his last chance to persuade that man ‘Monster’ has gone. Unhurriedly, walking for a few minutes, curios turns head towards the town hall. The same soldier standstill looks in his direction.
  Â
It was nearly one o'clock in the afternoon when a soldier calls out Savo's name. Savo walks behind him up to the corridor in the other building. Instantly, Savo noticed the difference between two buildings. This one exuded a more militia atmosphere. The recruits are already dressed in their uniforms. Some of them Savo recognized from the queue. Right at the far end of the building there is located a white door. Above the door, a black rectangular plaque in pure letters uphold written note. Savo looks at the plaque illiterate can’t read it.
The soldier seeing Savo's interest in a plaque, 'can you read what’s written there?'
‘I can’t read I’m illiterate!’
‘Infantry Regiment Captain Srećko Arsić!’
The soldier gave Savo the papers carried in his right hand knock at the door. Waits until the sound from inside sharply responded, 'Enter!'
A solider opens the door signalling Savo proceed inside. A gray, curly-haired man in uniform with a broad smile met Savo, ‘son, welcome to the army! May I have your documents?’
‘Certainly, Sir you may!’
While Captain reads his documents, Savo stand nearby his wooden table looking at the Captain. The Captain appears to Savo as an average built man similar to his deceased neighbour Mitar. Despite his gray hair, the Captain's every move it's graceful resembling of a young man. He gave an impression of a capable man can handle any situation. His wooden table small but very tidy. Looking at his table, Savo notices a tiny black object. Very unusual never saw it before. A tiny dark object has something like a stand with two handles at the top of it. Over the top, a miniature rope linked to those two handles. Savo jumps on the spot when a black object made a strange noise. The Captain busy reading at his papers didn't notice Savo's reaction. The captain stops reading. He lifts up the telephone and starts talking without taking his eyes from Savo's papers in front of him, ‘Captain Arsić! Can I help you?’
‘My name is Savo Radunović! They send me!’
‘Wait for a moment!’ The captain shouts to the telephone, place it on the table in front of him. With a hand signal, he silences Savo. ‘Son, would you mind taking this chair and sit down! I'll be with you very shortly!’
Savo sat down silently.
The captain lifts up the telephone again ‘hello is anybody there?' He waits for a while. Speaks again, 'my sincere apologies General Tošić, I’ve to interrupt our conversation. I’m with a new recruit. When I answer your telephone call, he thought I was addressing him, he started talking. How can I help?’
From time to time the Captain saying, ‘yes I understand. I agree!’ until in the end he concludes ‘good day, General Tošić!’ Afterwards placing back the telephone the captain standing up from his chair looks directly at Savo, ‘now let's concentrate on you, my son. I hope it’ll be quiet. I don't like being interrupted by this damn thing when I’m busy with a new recruit. The telephone it can be very annoying. Would you mind standing up, my son?’
Savo stands up. He is at least a head and a half taller than the captain. The captain left the table and walks around Savo admiring his strong massive physique. ‘I’m honoured having you under my command. It’ll be my great pleasure changes you into an excellent soldier! I can see you’ll be a hero! I wouldn’t like been in Germans' shoes when they meet you. Tough to escape when you pursue them?’
‘Sorry Sir, I don't understand what you do mean exactly?’
The captain gently touches Savo's right shoulder. He just couldn’t resist it, ‘I read your documents. My son you’re the fastest man in Vukov Kamen and the surrounding area is that true my son?’
‘Yes sir! That is true!’
‘You’re born in those mountains, young and fast. You experience every path every brook and every cavern. This is your own territory. To the Germans this territory is a considerable mystery unknown and hostile. They’re not prepared for our rocks and rugged mountains! When the time comes to fight them, the Germans will be helpless. They won't be able to escape from your clutches!’
‘Yes, sir, I’ll do my best stopping the Germans to escape!’
‘I knew I could rely on you, my son! Did you have anything to eat or drink this morning? It is nearly lunch time!’
‘No sir, nothing since last night. I've been waiting in the queues. I didn't bring anything to eat or drink with me!’
‘What nothing to eat and drink all this time, I’ll see about that! Perić!’ The captain shouts looking at the door.
The same soldier came in saluting ‘yes, sir captain, waiting for your orders!’
‘First, escort Radunović to the canteen. Second, escort him to store for uniform and boots. Third, escort to the bathroom. Lastly bring back Radunović to my office in his uniform, everything clear?’
Perić confirms saluting, ‘yes, sir! All orders clear! Recruit Radunović follow me!’
Savo follows soldier Perić at once. The captain overjoyed full of admiration for his latest recruit. Captain Arsić very impressed. Delight has a young athlete in his regiment. In his head starts create a plan how to use his robust body in the most fitting way. Sit down again call for the next recruit. The unknown recruit is the opposite of Savo. A medium built average height. The captain observes a fresh recruit very disappointed, ‘I suppose they can’t be all muscular giants. I’m lucky having Radunović under my command. I should be grateful for that. Anyway, if I’m honest I’m nothing special, also!’
For a while his thoughts flew back to 1914. As a young man when a member of the Army became. The captain remembers himself as a youthful twenty years old. As a new recruit standing in front of recruits’ officer. Now, twenty-six years later, he’s commanding officer of newly picked recruits. What a big difference. At the age of forty-seven, he’s the most experienced captain in the Infantry Regiment. He concludes, ‘let's get back to the business. Emotions can wait for some other time!’ Captain starts reading the documents about a recruit standing in front of him.
Savo ate his meal with heartfelt enjoyment. Two full plates of meat, beans and lots of bread. Type of meat unknown, he never tasted it before. However, finishes it all leaving his plate spotless. Inside the canteen two soldiers cook looking at Savo. Vainly gesture Perić’s attention. Once Perić finally caught their signals, he leaves Savo eating and goes to them.
Smaller of two cook’s inquiry, ‘who’s that giant? Tell us all what you know as a reward next time you eat, you'll find two big pieces of beef on your plate!’
‘Some Radunović under Captain Arsić's command, I don't know anything about him. Don’t worry, I’ll find out more about him during the day. He’s with me all the time. I’ve orders from Captain Arsić to guide him around. Tonight, I’ll tell you all what I managed to find out about him. I’ve to go see you tonight!’
Soon Savo left the canteen. His every move follows cooks piercing eyes. He notices they’re talking about him. He didn't care.
Smaller cook baffled openly gazing after Savo in the distance, ‘definitely, he’s mountain man!’
The second cook taller of two, ‘look at his plate? Scrape clean, he must be keen on old horsemeat. Who knows how many horses finished inside his big belly?’
The resulting problem finds the right boot size fitting Savo's gigantic feet. All the boots they tried too small for his feet. At the end together with shoemaker they decided Savo keep on his peasant sandals until shoemaker design boots match his feet. It was almost six o'clock in the afternoon once Perić knocks on the captain's door again. Shortly, Savo enters the office wearing his new uniform.
‘Come in, welcome back, son! Sit here in this chair!'
Savo walked across the room and sat in a chair. The captain looks at Savo with a broad smile on his face from ear to ear. He spots Savo's peasant sandals. Stand up from his chair, ‘Perić, come in here right, now!’
Soldier Perić came, and he salutes the captain.
‘You said I don’t need to repeat my orders! Obviously, you ignored them Perić, didn't you?'
‘No, sir, I executed all of your orders, sir Captain!’
‘Did you really? Why is soldier Radunović still wearing his peasant sandals?’
‘Ah, that! Sir Captain the problem is soldier Radunović feet are too big for all our boots. We’ve tried every pair! None of them fits his feet. I spoke to a shoemaker. He’ll try solving the problem. If you don't believe me, Sir Captain ask soldier Radunović or the shoemaker!’
The captain asks looking at Savo, ‘is that true?"
Savo answered standing up from his chair, ‘absolutely!’
‘Perić you can go now, I'll call you when I need you!’
‘Very well sir captain!’
‘Sit down, soldier Radunović! What’s your name again? I forget it?’ The captain pretended. He reads documents many times. He knew all about Savo.
‘Savo!’
‘Ah yes, I do remember now! Savo as in Saint Savo, isn't it?’
‘I don't know sir my father knows the answer to that question!’
‘What is your father's name, Savo?’
‘Jovo!’
‘Is your father still alive?’
‘Yes, sir, he’s still alive. I’m afraid not in good health. Almost thirteen years ago fell down from our horse broke left leg. Since fall, he’s often in pain!’
‘Do you have mother, any brothers, or sisters, Savo?’
‘Unfortunately not, my mother died giving birth to me!’
‘Oh, I’m so sorry Savo. Here in my Infantry Regiment we’re all like a big family. Tomorrow you’ll find out for yourself. I think you should go to bed you must be tired! Have a good rest! From four o'clock tomorrow morning we begin our preparations encounter the Germans. Goodnight, Savo! Perić’
Soldier Perić came in again saluting ‘Sir waiting for your orders!’
‘Escort soldier Radunović to his bed. That’ll be all for tonight. See you in the morning four o'clock sharp. Goodnight Perić!’
‘As you wish, sir captain Four o'clock sharp! Goodnight sir captain! Soldier Radunović, follow me!’
At the door, Savo turns around salutes the captain in a correct army’s manner as if a long-serving soldier, ‘goodnight, sir captain!’
Captain stares at the shut door surprised by Savo's perfect protocol. Understandable Savo learns quickly. It pleases him a lot. The captain thought, ‘what a proud father, Jovo Radunović must be. I wish he’s my son! All my three girls adore me especially Milka. Deep down in my heart and soul I’ll swap all three for a son as Savo Radunović!’ Takes a deep breath open his little notebook with a pen, wrote down ‘boots for Savo Radunović.’ Afterwards closes up notebook places it in his trouser pocket. Switch off the light lock the office door and walks away.
After escorting Savo to his bed, soldier Perić went to the canteen. Two cooks impatiently wait for his return.
‘I feel exceedingly hungry!’
‘Tell us what you found out?’
‘First, can I see assurance promised pieces of beef?’
The second cook goes to the kitchen. Shortly brings back a large plate ‘is this going to satisfy your hunger?’
Perić’s eyes grew wide at the sight of large pieces of well-cook beef on a plate in front of him. Licking lips like a cat that got a cream, ‘wow, what a lovely meal. I can't wait to tackle in!’
The cook said pointing to the table in the corner of the canteen prepared, ‘sit at that table. I'll bring it to you!’
A short while later two cooks sat next to Perić, ‘I'd like to befriend you guys. It gives me a great pleasure to tell you all that I found out about him during the day!’
He starts talking. Keep eyes at the plate. Break his monologue barely to swallow succulent pieces of beef.
Dormitory holds adequate space for sixty soldiers’ beds. Savo’s military bed lay in a far end corner inside dormitory’s second floor. His long leg's lung over the bottom of his bed dangles in the air. He’s sleeping on a lower bunk. Previous night soldier Perić makes sure Savo sleeps on a low bed. During the night his weight it could set off bed’s collapse. Looking at Savo's massive frame, Perić thoughts, ‘I wouldn't like to sleep under his bed. If bed collapses overnight whoever sleeps underneath a certain death!’
Later, that night, two cooks arrive. They spot Savo's sleeping in the far end corner. They came near Savo gaze at him. A smaller cook with a massive smile on his face takes out a box of matches from his pocket. Leisurely he tiptoes towards Savo's bed. Discovering his insane intentions the second cook pulls him back whispering, ‘are you crazy, Draško? What do you think you are doing? What's the matter with you?’
‘I don't know what are you talking about, Mladen? Be more precise!’
‘Do you want this mountain man to kill you?’
‘What you talking about, of course not?’
‘If that is the case stop playing with the fire. Look at his hands. If he catches you, you’ll die in his hands. Nothing, Draško could save you. I’m warning you. Don’t touch sleeping lion! Do you hear me?’
‘Ssshhh! I’m not deaf. Mladen, tell me how he’ll know I did it? He’s in deep sleep. By the time he wakes up due to his burning toes, I’ll be well under my blanket. You see it’s not any problem at all!’
‘That’s what you think! Maybe, you have forgotten today after the lunch he has a good look at both of us. I’m sure he remembers our faces. Obviously, two of us would be first on his list of suspects. My life is precious to me. I don't want it to end up in his hands. I forbid you even to think about playing stupid jokes on him. If you want to play that sort of foolish game, you’ve so many other recruits to choose from. Any of them you might try but, never him. Is that clear or do I have to repeat!’
'Just calm down will you? I've got the message!’
For a while, they remain silent watching sleeping Savo. Slowly walking away closed the door behind them. Savo slept soundly all night nothing disturbs his sleep. He dreams chasing after a German soldier childish-looking like Ranko Stošić. A soldier’s very scared. Savo drew near placed his massive hand on German's soldier head. A nearby Army trumpeter’s resonance wakes him up. Savo is uncertain where exactly, he was. Someone is shouting, ‘Soldiers time to get up!’
Savo recognizes the voice. It’s the Captain Arsić. Some of soldiers move out lazily from their beds. Their laziness made captain Arsić angry. He shouts again ‘move faster you’re in the army!’
A few remaining soldiers sleeping in their beds jump instantly next to their beds. Stand up to attention likewise all the other soldiers. As soon as everyone is up. The captain shouts loudly again ‘Soldiers first thing what you do its make beds. Sergeant Perić will show you how it’s done! Sergeant, explain how it should be done.’
Perić did it twice making sure the soldiers understand his instructions. The captain claps hands, ‘come on, lads, let see how you do it!’
Suddenly the bedroom came alive. White sheets billowed all over the bedroom. From some pillows feathers come out in clouds. Sometime later, all quiet again. The captain's eyes keep straying at a distant corner.
A young soldier is there at least head taller than the rest of the soldiers, his movements fast and synchronized.
The captain walks throughout the bedroom, inspecting the beds. His practised eye could spot from far away a badly made bed. Just glancing over beds he notes of the beds unsatisfactory made to army standards. He stops in front of Savo's bed. A cursory glance adequate to assure him it is a perfectly done. Very pleased to see it. ‘Sergeant Perić, come here!’
The sergeant surprised by a call once detects a perfectly made bed. His surprise grows even bigger when he receives another command from the captain Arsić, ‘remove sheets from this bed sergeant Perić!’
‘But sir captain, it’s per...’
‘Just do what I say, Sergeant Perić!’
‘Very well sir captain, as you wish!’
Perić removes sheets from Savo’s bed. The captain turns to Savo, 'soldier Radunović.'
'Yes, sir captain.'
‘You’ve to make the bed again. Do you understand?’
‘Perfectly sir captain as you wish!’
‘Wait for my command!’
The captain place his hand inside his trouser pocket brings out a small pocket watch waits for a while ‘now!’
Savo starts to assemble bed, his hands fast and skilful. All other soldiers watched silently from their places. After Savo finish moves to one side. The captain keeps looking at his pocket watch all the time. After Savo finished, he returns the watch inside his pocket. Without a single look at Savo’s bed the captain asks the sergeant ‘did you inspect bed, Sergeant Perić?’
‘Yes, sir captain, I did!’
‘Do you have any complaint, Sergeant Perić?’
‘No sir captain, all in order according to the rules!’
‘What’s the fastest time for making bed in this regiment?’
‘It’s three minutes and four seconds, sir captain!’
‘Who’s current holder of that record?’
‘I'm, sir captain since last year!’
‘What do you reckon Radunović’s time is faster or slower than your record time?’
‘Maybe, it was a little bit faster than mine!’
‘A little bit, are you sure? I would say rather a sizeable bit. You’ve noticed I was timing, haven't you?’
‘Yes, I did sir, Captain!’
‘It was one and half minute precisely. What you’ve to say to soldier Radunović?’
Perić turns to Savo offering his hand, ‘congratulations soldier Radunović. You’re new record-holder for bed-making in our regiment!’
Savo shook his hand. Strength in Savo's hand too much to handle. His face grew red. Savo removes his powerful hand from Sergeant's hand leaving Sergeant much relieved. Shaking his painful hand Perić thought, ‘I must keep away from this monster!’ Some of the soldiers shouted while the sergeant and Savo shakes hands. A few of them go even further starts whistling. The captain's shrill voice drowned out all shouts and whistles instantly. ‘Quiet, you’re in the army. Discipline must be observed at all times. If someone wants to speak must ask for permission to speak. There must be silence all the time unless, I say so. For all of you who haven’t made your beds properly, you’ll have another go tomorrow morning. As far as I can see that apply to all of you except soldier Savo Radunović. Leave beds as they are. Get dressed have wash. You have half an hour to get ready! After that, I want to see all of you outside at the place reserved for making rank. A tallest soldier always occupies top of rank. As far as I can see soldier Radunović will occupy that spot. All of you, except soldier Radunović put your uniforms on, now!’
The soldiers start to dress up. Some of them first put their boots on, others put their top on. Looking at the soldiers struggling with their uniforms the captain felt concern thinking ‘let’s hope they’re not going to run like scared rabbits when the Germans open fire at them.’
After all soldiers went to the bathroom the captain's turns all his attention to Savo, ‘where did you learn to make bed? I’m sure you've done it many times! Am I right Savo?’
‘Yes, sir captain that is true. I’ve made bed many times before. My father was once a soldier. He taught me!’
‘I see so that is the reason. Excellent, I presume father taught you other details as well. What else can you do, Savo?’
‘Not a lot sir, captain. How to make a tent, find a short cut through the forest use axe for chopping woods, that's really about all!’
‘Did father teach you how to use a gun, Savo?’
‘Yes, sir captain, but, I'd never use a loaded gun.’
‘Why not?’
‘I prefer a knife. I’m good at throwing knives!’
‘That’s excellent. From what distance can you hit the target?’
‘It depends on the target, sir!’
‘I don't understand what do you mean exactly, be more precise?’
‘Small target twenty meters away, large target forty meters away, sir!’
‘What are small or large targets, Savo?’
‘Rabbit small, Wolf large, Sir!’
‘Savo, I must admit I’m very impressed. Usually, I never prize any soldier, especially a recruit. In your case I made exception. From the first time I saw you, I knew you’re different from the rest. Put uniform on, wash after that outside for making rank, move on!’
Savo dress up properly according to the army's rules, his movements quick and spontaneous. The captain watches his bulky body disappear through the bedroom door. The captain thought making his way outside the dormitory, ‘who knows what else he’s capable of doing. I’ll find out!’
A heavy rain pours down on the soldiers outside the barracks as they assembled in the polygon for forming ranks. Everything is soaking wet, the ground, the grass and the soldiers' uniforms. It’s still dark. The captain came out to inspect fresh soldiers rank. Sergeant Perić waits at the rank with all other soldiers for captain’s arrival. Sergeant's sharp voice reminds new soldiers of Army’s protocol, ‘attention soldiers! Sir Captain, the soldiers of the Infantry Regiment ready for your inspection. All two hundred and eight new soldiers present. Report Sergeant Perić!’
‘Thank you Sergeant Perić!’
Captain walked unhurriedly as he inspected. Looking directly at soldier's eyes checks their uniforms and boots. He reached Savo at the other end saw at his feet instead of boots peasant sandals. He nearly shouted at Sergeant Perić, therefore, remembered the previous night's explanation and his personal notes in his notebook. After finishing the inspection satisfied the captain returned to the middle of the rank. He applies his favourite stance for addressing his soldiers. ‘Soldiers, I’ve duty to inform you of our plans. As all of you know our foremost duties are to stop advancing German troops capturing our motherland. We must defend our land as our grandfathers did in the past. We don't have too much time to throw away. Every moment it’s so precious. We’re going to the region of Bela Ptica, southeast of Bijelo Polje. Based on reports from our own intelligence the German armies will most likely come from that direction. We believe they will be here between 10th and 12th of April. It all depends on the resistance of our brothers in Macedonia and Kosovo. If the Germans break their resistance in the region of town Peć, there’s nothing to stop them on their way towards us. On the mountain Čakor the snow has melted the distance between Peć and Bijelo Polje it’s eighty kilometres. A very short distance for their tanks and other motorized vehicles to cross the Čakor and reach us in Bijelo Polje. It’s only a matter of time before they’ll arrive. Our target is the region of Bela Ptica. We’re going dig trenches, channels, and plant minefields on the approach from the Čakor!’
The captain finished outlining his plans. For a while looks at young soldiers face soaked by heavy rain. Some of soldiers bodies slightly shivering from the cold and rain. The captain looks longer at Savo's face than rest of the soldiers. He spoke again in different caring voice similar as if a father talking to his sons. ‘My children, my sons, I’m an old experienced soldier. I spent all my life since the age of twenty in the army. I know it’s very hard leaving your families and homes. We must be strong. We’ve to stop the Germans taking our land, destroying our beautiful Bijelo Polje. We’ve to fight to the last drop of blood in our bodies. We must fight for freedom, justice, for our families and for our king. We’ve to fight not merely here in Bijelo Polje, if it’s necessary all over our Kingdom. We must fight for our children, for our mothers and sisters and for our glorious Orthodox Christian name. We don't want to give anything to the Germans, my sons?’
The captain raises his right fist in the air looking at soldiers in front of him.
Chorused all the soldiers at once, their right fists punch the air, ‘No we don't, sir captain!’
The captain looked at them uplifting, ‘that’s right, my sons! We won’t give anything to the Germans! They can have our bullets only. My sons, it’s the time to give our faithful solemn oath to defend our motherland! Put your fine hand on your heart and repeat after me, my sons!’
All the soldiers put their right hands on their hearts. The captain looks at the soldiers’ desirous dedicate their solemn oath. A few times emotions choked his voice. Proudly raising his voice, ‘I - say your name, my sons- Srećko Arsić hereby utter an oath to defend my motherland from all who attacks our freedom. I’ll fight with the last drop of blood in my body. I’ll never accept capitulation from the enemy. Freedom is my only goal and my life's destiny!’
They finish giving the oath. In the captain's eyes tears brimming, his proud ageing face looks tense and emotional. All two hundred and eight new soldiers silent wait for fresh orders from Captain Arsić.
At five o'clock in the morning a trumpeter started trumpeting time for the flag’s rise at the mast.
Captain Arsić turned to his right. Saluted with his right hand and kept still in that position. All the soldiers followed suit. One of the soldiers came out of the barrack. Carrying the flag in his hand, shortly raise the flag on the flag post. After ceremony it was over, Captain Arsić turned to his left, followed by all of the soldiers.
‘That’ll be all for soldiers! Now, you’re members of our army family. You’ll sleep together, work together, defend one another, and die for one another. You must always remember your duties and your oaths. In this regiment never has been any betrayal. Anyone who breaks his oath and betrays others will be court-martialled!’
He sharply finished the last two sentences. Elucidate oaths importance to the soldiers. Captain Arsić turned to Sergeant Perić ‘Sergeant! Take the soldiers change their sodden uniforms, therefore the breakfast. After the breakfast break until midday. After noon we’re going to the region of Bela Ptica. All clear sergeant?’
‘Yes, sir captain! All the orders are clear!’
‘Attention! Right turn! Follow me! Salute Sir Captain Arsić! March! Right! Left! Right! Left...’
The heavy rain continued falling. The captain following soldiers’ thoughts, ‘how many are going to die from the Germans bullets? I hope Savo Radunović will survive escape unhurt. I couldn’t bear to see him dying. He just starts to live. I’ve to make sure he remains next to me all the time. I’ve to keep him distant from the other soldiers. If the Germans are too strong and smash our resistance, I’ve to protect Savo from the bullets with my own body. That’s my main concern and my ultimate duty. Savo has to survive not just for my sake, for Milka's sake as well!’ Captain's thoughts went from pessimistic notions to happier thoughts. In his mind saw his youngest daughter Milka in her wedding dress smiling at him very happy. The captain stayed for sometime deep in thought with a broad smile on his face. Unexpectedly, on captain's cheeks tears. He wiped them out immediately. Shortly, captain turns up at the barracks gate where his soldiers’ marched in earlier.
Bela Ptica set inside a small valley beneath the mountain Čakor. Fields full of the grass for the cattle to feed during the summer. The valley divided in two parts by significant wooden bridge. Under the wooden bridge wild river Lim flowed with all its power. After long snow-drenched winter the river swelled by snow’s thaw. On wooden bridge people escort over-loaded mules and horses with chopped wood for use as fuel in long winters. It would be impossible to cross over the powerful river Lim if there wasn’t a wooden bridge, built just after the end of the First World War. Valley’s people devoid of the bridge isolated of Bijelo Polje. The sharp rocks in the middle of the river and strong stream currents risky to swim or cross over in small barge. In the past a few braved attempts to cross the river. All attempts failed ending in a tragedy. After the end of the First Word War the army got the job of building the bridge over the river. One of the soldiers building the bridge it was Captain Srećko Arsić. He still remembers how awkward, dangerous and costly mission it had been. Thanks to his excellent swimming and his good knowledge of wild and unpredictable River Lim this mission meant very much to Arsić. After bridge completion, he’s promoted from a Sergeant to Captain. Building the bridge slow and arduous job it took almost a six months complete the task. During that period, twenty-three soldiers drowned and many additional soldiers sustained major and minor injuries. It was almost twenty years since the bridge it was built. The Captain looks proudly at the bridge after arrival with his Infantry Regiment early in the morning of 9th of April 1941. Despite it was nearly twenty years gone the memories still fresh to Captain Arsić of six-month battle day and night with powerful untamed river. He thought ‘the bridge it’s still striking. For all those years it stood undefeated by untamed river and her currents. It was man's victory against the nature!’ Captain’s regiment of two hundred and nine men arrived at the bridge. They crossed over to the other side of the valley near to the Čakor. Shortly, the soldiers take on breaking in moist grass. Captain went ahead alone to decide where would be the best defensive station. Three hundred meters away from the bridge set on a thick oak forest, ideal place for ambush. The forest road with sharp bends stretch through the forest. It looks like a giant snake slithering higher and upper into the Čakor. Captain Arsić went a little bit further down into the forest. The abundant forest oak trees, bushes and other vegetation's a real labyrinth for someone who didn’t know the territory. Inside there enough space to camouflage at least two divisions with all their equipment. The captain exceedingly pleased with his discovery. On his return to his regiment, he discussed his discovery with Sergeant Perić. After a short discussion, they decided to move the soldiers from the field near the bridge and into the forest. There was enough time for a quick breakfast. Sergeant ordered the soldiers to open one of their food tins they received from the reserve army supplies. They ate in silence. After the breakfast, the soldiers put back all their army equipment. Savo placed his rucksack on his back slung his gun over his right shoulder. Sergeant orders, ‘attention follow me!’
Captain waited for the soldiers to go ahead. Subserviently followed them walking behind the soldiers on his own. Shortly, the soldiers reached the forest. Captain Arsić pulled Savo to one side. A short distance away from the other soldiers, ‘can you climb up on the tree, Savo?’
‘Certainly, I can sir captain!’
Captain indicates at the big oak tree nearby them ‘can you climb on that oak?’
‘When would you like me to climb, sir captain?’
‘Whenever, you’re ready!’
‘I’m going right now if that is all right with you, sir captain.’
‘That’s fine by me. Savo, when you’re near the top do be careful. The branches tend to be weaker there! Make sure you are safe, Savo! Will you?’
‘Thank you, sir captain for your advice. I know that very well. As a child I often climb up the trees looking for magpies' eggs. I’m experienced climber!’
A few minutes later Savo vanished into the dense crown of the oak tree. The captain waited under the tree, impatient to hear Savo's voice from the top of the oak. All quiet for a while.
‘Sir Captain, I’m near to the top. I can't go any higher!’
‘Good Savo. Keep to that spot can you hear me?’
‘Yes, sir captain I can hear you very well! What are your instructions, sir?’
‘Can you see the bridge, Savo?’
‘Yes, sir captain like on my own hand!’
‘Can you see anything of the town, Savo?’
‘Yes sir, the church our barracks and some houses!’
‘Turn to the other side carefully don’t fall tell me can you see the path through the forest?’
Captain Arsić waits for a short while, heard Savo's voice, ‘Sir, I can see the road rising up and down in the mountain Čakor, anything else sir?’
‘No thank you! Savo, that’ll be all. Come down take extra care standing on petite branches!’
While captain waits for Savo's return in his head starts formulating defence strategy against advancing German troops. The most important fact is they won’t be caught unprepared by the Germans. They’ll spot the Germans draw near on this side of the Čakor. Captain's regiment has ample time set up a deadly ambush for their advance troops. A heavy gunfire on both sides of the road and minefields laid for their vehicles the Germans will be defeated. Bijelo Polje saved. Captain thought, ‘It’ll be easier than I’ve expected!’ Savo's sudden jump from the oak tree reminded him of his presence. Soon the two of them rejoined the sergeant and rest of the soldiers. For next twelve days they prepared defence against the German threat. Most of the time they spent dug up trenches. As each day passed by no sign of the Germans. On 21st, of April a courier from the barracks came looking for Captain Arsić. He gave Captain a letter. Reading the letter captain's face grew extremely serious. Captain called on all the soldiers. ‘Soldiers’ my sons I’ve good news for you. The Germans are not coming our way. Their army sojourn. My children go home! Take your guns and equipment with you! Wrap up your guns inside dry clothes. Hide it in a safe and secure place known only to you. Don’t tell even your own family where the guns are hidden. That’s your top priority and your personal secret! Those are your orders. Sergeant, take the soldiers with you back to the barracks! Move on, now!’
The soldiers obeyed Captain's orders. March of leaving the captain alone in the forest.
Two days later Savo's returns home from his diminutive army career. At around seven o'clock in the morning the following day busy working in cow-shed didn't notice someone looking at him with a broad smile. Outside the shed, Jovo calls, ‘Savo come out someone wants to see you!’
Seeing a familiar face, ‘oh Pajo, how glad am I to see you in one piece! How are you brother?’
‘Hello, Savo, my brother. I'm glad to see you in one piece as well!’
They shook hands and embraced one another. Savo suggested, ‘Pajo, go inside with father. I’ve to finish milking the last cow. It won't take me more than a few minutes! Father would you mind making a pot of coffee. I'll join you shortly.’
‘Of course Savo, I don't mind, why should I mind!’
They went towards the house. Jovo limping ahead followed by Pajo at a short distance behind. Savo watched them until they vanished inside the house. He went back finish milking. Very impatient to find out where Pajo had been since the last time saw him outside town hall during army registration. Shortly, Savo finished milking remaining cow and goes inside the house. Seen Savo entering inside the room Jovo stands up from his chair. ‘I’ll leave you two to talk. I’m sure you don't need my company!’
‘Where are you going, father? Stay with us? We don’t have anything to hide from you. You know that father, don't you?’
‘I know that, Savo. It’ll better if you two talk freely undisturbed by my presence. I’m going to feed the chickens. You forgot them, didn't you, Savo?
‘Oh, no, you are right, father! Sorry, I did completely forget it!’
After Jovo left the room, they sat in silence for a while looking at one another. The aroma of exceptionally strong Turkish coffee pervaded the room. Seeing Pajo's empty cup, Savo offered, ‘would you like some more coffee, Pajo?’
‘No thanks, Savo! I’m not especially fond of this coffee. Anyway, I drink it now and then when I’m at someone's house .I don’t enjoy, I don’t want to refuse host's hospitality. Now, describe me all what’s happened to you since we’re separated outside town hall two weeks ago.’
‘That’s exactly what I wanted to ask you, Pajo. Since you ask me first, I’m going to tell you everything, Pajo!’
Savo talked slowly describing some of the new equipment he'd see in the town hall and in the captain's office.
Pajo listened with great interest all details of Savo's experiences during those two weeks. Savo spoke for nearly two hours vividly telling his story. He finished on a thoughtful note. ’I wonder about something though somewhat odd. When I crossed over the bridge on the way towards our army barracks, I thought I heard a single gunshot. I’m concerned it might be something to do with Captain Arsić. I noticed when he read the letter from the courier his expression changed instantly. Also, I noticed his voice sounded different, unnatural rather strange. I’m worried about Captain. He’s honest good man! What do you think, Pajo?’
‘It’s hard to tell, Savo! If I understand you correctly, it was a long distance between where you were and where you heard the gunshot. Who knows, it could have been something else, or maybe you were tired and imagined it!’ Pajo concluded. It would be better to keep the news about his captain a little bit longer. Eventually he’s going to find out the truth without Pajo telling him right now. To distract Savo from his thoughts Pajo offered, ‘do you want to hear my story, Savo?’
‘Yes, please. I can’t wait any longer tell me all about it!’
Pajo started telling his side of the story. ‘I followed the soldier inside the town hall. We went to second door on the left. Inside there’s plump diminutive uniformed man with glasses on. He stared at me as soon as I closed the door behind me. He offered me a chair. He didn’t waste any time with me. As if he’s in some terrible hurry or had a fire under the feet! He quickly asked me for name, date of birth, home address, father's and mother's names without even looking at me. It was all very quick. I was confused when he called a soldier waiting outside. Gave him my records saying, ‘Advance-Guard’. The soldier leads me along the corridor to the other side of the building to a small lorry waiting. The soldier said to me ‘jump inside!’ I did. I'd just managed to sit on a small bench near the back of the lorry. Same soldier I followed pulled down cover from the top of the lorry and started to fasten two rubber belts to it one on the each side. A few moments later the soldier shouted towards the front of the lorry ‘all ready, driver drive away!’ The lorry started moving making a loud noise. I felt thrown around, like a paper boat on the river Lim. Someone next to me shouted loudly overpowering the noise of the lorry. ‘Oi you, watch where you are going! Put part of the wooden beam behind your back and hold on to it with your hands. You'll stop stumbling around like a drunken man? As soon as I clench to a wooden beam the voice stops. Inside the lorry thick darkness, I tried to see around me. I could not see a thing. The man who shouted at me had turned his back on me. I couldn’t see his face. Inside were some other people. I felt hungry and thirsty. To make myself feeling better, I started thinking about you, brother Savo. I was interested to know what’s happened to you. My thoughts switched back to our childhood. I remembered some of our games, hunting magpies' nests and eggs, skiing in the winter and other happy times we shared together. Suddenly, all lorry noise stopped. I heard someone's footsteps approaching outside nearby where I sat. Soon, lorry’s cover lifted up. I saw some of other soldiers face future down inside the lorry. The soldier who unfastened the rubber belts shouted loudly. ‘Soldiers jump down! Move on quickly you’re in the army!’
I jumped first on the ground I was nearest, anyway. One by one the rest of the soldiers did the same.
‘Attention! Fall in! Form ranks!’ Turning towards me pointing at me with his forefinger, ‘you, soldier! Stay here. You follow him!’ Soldier commanded one by one we formed ranks. ‘Remember your positions as you’re now! You’ll have to remain exactly in the same position onwards!’ We remain in the same position waiting for orders from this soldier. Soon a medium- built man in a different uniform approached. Soldier saluted newcomer ‘Adjutant Matić, new recruits ready for inspections reports Sergeant Ilić!’
‘Thank you Sergeant Ilić. Soldiers, welcome to my advance-guard squad. I’m adjutant Boro Matić. From now, onwards you’ll be trained by the military standards how to lead the battalion, watch enemy movements, their equipment, positions, and their advances. Your main duties send out accurate information to rest of the army. It’s a dangerous mission Chances of capture and death by the enemy strong possibility. You’ll provide vital information for our forces. Every piece of information it could save so many lives. Here in this squad you’ll learn how to camouflage, survive, work alone and pass vital information in all weather conditions! This is a brief summary of your duties and your task lying ahead of you. In the near future, you’ll find out so many other details as part of your duties. Sergeant Ilić, do you’ve uniform ready for all new recruits?’
‘Yes sir, all ready waiting!’ Next twelve days we spent training and practicing. We’re located in the Mountain Čakor overlooking the road from the town of Peć. Our mission it was to prepare defence of Bijelo Polje. To avoid any possibilities of discovery by the Germans we’re hiding deep in the thick forest. Our main duty it was to provide all necessary information’s to your Infantry Regiment. Giving you enough time to plant mines and build barricades on the way to Bijelo Polje as the last defence of the town. Savo, you’re uncovered standing up in an oak tree by Adjutant Matić’s binoculars. If you don’t know what binoculars are, you must have seen a pair of Captain Arsić's chest. A small device like two small round windows connected to a long strap. Did you see it?’
‘Oh yes, I remember seeing it. I meant to ask Captain Arsić what it was, but I never did, Pajo!’
‘During this brief period of just twelve days, I learned a lot. Life of advance guards it’s extremely dangerous. Your next move could be your last one. Your reactions have to be quick patient and positive. You’ve arrange carefully every move. Failure it could be fatal for you and for many others behind you. Self-control it’s paramount at all time. Often you’ve to change already prepared plans at the last minute. Agree to new one at once. If you’ve to reach a given target by a certain time you must be there. Delays lead the entire mission at risk. Also, we’ve a special way of recognizing one another if we by a pure chance meet on the same path on our way towards the target. Anyway, Savo, we were trained without any risk or danger. We never separated. We stayed together all the time. We’re prepared for the future when the Germans draw closer, if they came at all. Two days ago at about five o'clock in the morning we’re ready as usual for training. Something called a telephone rang. I never heard this word ‘telephone’ before. One of soldiers who were there when we first time arrived, informed Adjutant Matić of an urgent ‘telephone call’. Our adjutant's room subsequent to our rooms built deep underground. We’re well hidden. You would never believe if you were looking at the land. There were soldiers hidden rumbling under your feet. Anyway, the adjutant went to his room and start shouting at someone loudly. We could hear every word he’s saying, ‘what Surrender? Are you mad? ...Who signed it? ...Betrayal! ...What? ... Discharge my squad? ... When will you come to us? They all must be mad.’ The adjutant shouted for a very long time. When he returned, he was changed man unusual and strange. Brother Savo, I never saw him like that before. He thought for a very long time before he spoke to us. He spoke softly his usual robust authority gone. ‘Soldiers, I’ve orders of the High Command to discharge our advance guard squad. As from now onwards you’re not soldiers any longer. Your service not needed in the army. A lorry is coming to take you to Bijelo Polje. Take your guns with you and hide them covered in dry clothes inside the ground. Maybe one day you will need them again. That’s all I’ve to tell you, my soldiers!’His voice sounded very sad and worried. A while later a lorry came. The adjutant and sergeant sat inside driver’s cabin. We travelled for a very long time. Inside the lorry it was very dark. I was deep in my thought thinking this and that until I heard a gun-shot somewhere nearby outside the lorry. Instantly, the lorry stopped. I heard two pairs of feet jumping on the ground in front of our lorry. A short while later the cover on our lorry opened. I saw the adjutant and sergeant carry in their hands a body of an unknown soldier in their hands. The adjutant ordered me and a soldier sitting on the opposite side of me inside the lorry to give them a hand. We jumped from our seats and helped them to lift the body of nameless soldier inside the lorry. With help from other soldiers we placed motionless body in the middle of the lorry. I hear a short conversation between the adjutant and the sergeant standing outside the lorry. ‘Did you know him, Sir Adjutant?’
‘It’s the Infantry Regiment's Captain Arsić, a very good friend of mine. He couldn’t confront a shame of betrayal. He was an excellent soldier. Never suffers a defeat in his entire army career!’ Captain Arsić’s funeral held yesterday afternoon in the village of his birthplace Ždrijelo. I went at the funeral representing the Army. At the funeral, I saw captain's youngest daughter. I don't know her name but I know I would be very happy to have her as my wife! I’m so sorry brother Savo, for your captain Arsić’s death. I think he was very fond of you Savo. It’s very sad he ended his life and his distinguished army career!’
Savo was quiet. His thoughts were with deceased Captain Arsić. Seeing Savo thoughtful, Pajo decided to head home. ‘Brother Savo, we’re near to one another without knowing it. It’s time for me to go home. It’s nearly noon. My family, they’ll be worried about me. It’s a long time since, I left home! Ouch, we forgot all about your father, let's see where he’s and what he's doing, shall we?’
‘You are right, Pajo. I’ve to see where my father is. The pain in his left leg is killing him. I hope nothing bad happened to him!’ They went outside. Both smiled at once seen Jovo sleeping under a rose tree. Savo shook hands with Pajo. Indicating with his finger to his lips they shouldn’t disturb his sleeping father.
The Germans advance troops came to Bijelo Polje at the end of May. Nobody tried to stop them. Not a single gunshot fired at the German soldiers. It was all too easy, no violence, no struggle. The hunt for the soldiers of former kingdom armies and their hidden weapons started immediately after the Germans captured the town.
The search for buried weapons continued during all of June and into the first half of July. During all this time within Vukov Kamen it remains the same. Not a single Germans soldiers came to the village to search for hidden weapons or for ex-soldiers from the village. Savo and Pajo busy with everyday work and life in the village. Fully concentrate on preparing for upcoming cold, long and harsh winter. Since leaving the army they never talked about it. Pajo had a good reason. He didn’t want to see his bosom friend Savo upset over Captain Arsić’s death. Savo avoided any talks about the army or the war either. Around the tenth of July that same year fresh news starts circulating around Bijelo Polje. It was the news of an uprising against the Germans by a group of fighting men, the Communists. Those Communists with their leader Tito already fights around Serbia. The Communists called all the people to join the Communists in their fight for freedom against the German occupation. Savo heard from his neighbours of the communist spread around Bijelo Polje. After Germans tortures to give up hidden guns some of former soldiers escape to the forest around the town. He wasn’t sure if the news it’s true or not. On the other hand, he wasn’t ready to leave his father alone with all heavy work especially in his condition. Savo talked to Pajo about the news. Both decided to wait a little bit longer before doing anything on this subject. A few days later it was news at first-hand, near to his village. Around three o'clock in the afternoon of 15th of July, Savo as usual busy working. He heard guns firing in the distance. It continued for a long time with only moments of respite now and then. All it stopped just before the sunset. Obviously, the news about the Communists it was true. During the night, Savo tried so hard to sleep. In his head it was so many thoughts. He couldn’t close his eyes at all thinking hard. In the morning, he called his bosom friend Pajo to his house. They talked for a very long time. Afterwards, Pajo goes home leaving Savo to talk with his father Jovo. Jovo listened Savo's talk in silence. His head bowed towards the grass. After Savo finished talking, Jovo looks at him with a sad expression nods his head. Shortly after that, Savo goes and dug up his buried gun. At the sunset, Savo and Pajo left Savo’s home. With their guns slung over their right shoulders they’re going towards gunfire they hear the previous day. Jovo looked for a very long time in their direction with tears in his eyes. Something deep in his soul convinced him, it’s the last time seen his son Savo alive.
nearly finished with reading " A Time To Walk Away" by Rizo Balic, It is keeping my interest and I am enjoying this story very much.
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