On a quiet night, as the moon cast its silver light over the ancient castle, Kasdar, a 17-year-old half-human, half-vampire, sat in his father Kayada's large library.

Kasdar and the chess game of the worlds On a quiet night, as the moon cast its silver light over the ancient castle, Kasdar, a 17-year-old half-human, half-vampire, sat in his father Kayada's large library. The shelves were filled with ancient books and mysterious artifacts. Kasdar had always had questions about the human world, a world he had never seen but which fascinated him deeply. Kasdar, who was mute, used sign language to communicate with his father. He moved his hands slowly and clearly so Kayada could understand him. "Father, what is the human world really?" Kayada, a wise and powerful vampire, smiled gently. He understood his son's gestures when he didn't "speak" too quickly. "The human world, my son, is like a game of chess." He took out an antique chessboard and placed it between himself and Kasdar. "The people are white," explained Kayada and placed the white pieces on the board. "They are numerous, diverse and full of life. They strive for knowledge, power and love. Their movements are often unpredictable, but they have an inner strength and an unshakable will." Then he placed the black pieces on the board. "The vampires are black. We are fewer in number, but we are strong and resilient. Our movements are precise and calculated. We live in the shadows, but we have our own kind of power and wisdom." At that moment, Kalaxyja, Kasdar's mother and a human woman, entered the library. She understood sign language perfectly and could easily follow the conversation. "What are my two favorite men discussing?" she asked, smiling. Kasdar signed quickly and fluently: "Mother, father explains the human world to me. He says she's like a chess set." Kalaxyja sat down next to them and nodded in agreement. "That's a very apt metaphor, Kayada. The human world is indeed complex and full of surprises, just like a game of chess." Kasdar looked at his mother curiously and signed, "And what is my role in this game?" Kalaxyja took Kasdar's hands in hers and replied in sign language: "You, my dear Kasdar, are a bridge between worlds. You have the best of both worlds within you. Use your skills to create understanding and harmony. This is your true strength." Kayada nodded in agreement. "Your mother is right. You are unique and have an important job. The chess game of worlds may be complicated, but with your mother's wisdom and my support, you will find and fulfill your role." Kasdar smiled.—Jenifer Schindovski