Chapter 16: Chocolate Hills Fun
The Chocolate Hills in Bohol were a geological wonder that left Nancy and Zabid in awe. The lush landscape was dotted with 1,268 symmetrical cone-shaped hills, each covered in vibrant greenery. But it wasn't the lush green that intrigued them; it was the promise of chocolate.
Nancy couldn't help but tease Zabid as they approached the viewpoint. "Zabid, did you know that these hills are made of chocolate?"
Zabid raised an eyebrow, a playful glint in his eye. "Chocolate hills? I think you're trying to trick me, Nancy."
Nancy grinned mischievously. "Oh, just wait until you taste them. They're the best kind of chocolate. The ones you can eat with your eyes."
As they reached the viewing deck, they were greeted by the magnificent sight of the Chocolate Hills stretching out before them. The hills were covered in green grass that had turned brown during the dry season, creating the illusion of chocolate drops on the landscape.
Zabid was captivated. "I've never seen anything like this. It's stunning."
Nancy winked at him. "Well, there's no chocolate fountain here, but there is a little competition I'd like to propose."
Zabid raised an eyebrow. "A competition?"
Nancy nodded enthusiastically. "Yes! Let's see who can spot the most chocolate-shaped hill. The winner gets bragging rights for the rest of the day."
Zabid chuckled. "You're on, Nancy. But I warn you, I have a keen eye."
And so, their playful competition began. They stood side by side, gazing at the vast expanse of Chocolate Hills, and pointed out the hills that most resembled delicious chocolate morsels. They counted each one and shared their finds.
Nancy spotted a particularly cone-shaped hill and exclaimed, "Look, Zabid! That one over there looks just like a chocolate truffle!"
Zabid squinted and nodded. "You're right. But this one here," he pointed to a different hill, "reminds me of a caramel-filled chocolate."
Nancy laughed. "You're getting creative now, Zabid. But what about that hill? It's the perfect shape for a chocolate kiss."
As they continued to explore the hills with their eyes, their laughter echoed through the peaceful landscape. The warm sun bathed them in its golden light, and the air was filled with the sweet scent of nature.
Zabid spotted another hill and nudged Nancy playfully. "That one is the size of a giant chocolate bar. I win this round."
Nancy laughed, conceding the victory. "All right, Zabid, you win this one. But we're not done yet. Let's see who can find the next chocolate hill."
Their competition continued as they wandered the viewing deck, playfully pointing out hills that resembled various chocolate treats. Along the way, they shared stories and dreams, their playful banter and the breathtaking scenery forming a backdrop to their connection.
Nancy paused to look at the horizon, her voice filled with affection. "You know, Zabid, even though we're having this competition, the real treasure for me is being here with you, surrounded by all this beauty."
Zabid placed his arm around Nancy's shoulders, his gaze locked onto the hills. "I couldn't agree more, Nancy. The hills are extraordinary, but the moments we share are even more precious."
As the sun began to set, casting a warm, golden glow over the Chocolate Hills, Nancy and Zabid stood together, appreciating the majesty of the landscape and the simple joy of being in each other's company.
Their playful competition had brought laughter and lightheartedness to their journey, but it was the shared moments and connection that made their visit to the Chocolate Hills truly unforgettable. They left the viewpoint, hand in hand, ready to explore more of the wonders that the Philippines had to offer.
**Tarsier Encounter**
Bohol was not only known for its stunning landscapes but also for its unique and adorable inhabitants – the tarsiers. Nancy and Zabid had made their way to a tarsier sanctuary, eager to see these tiny, big-eyed creatures up close.
Nancy couldn't contain her excitement as they entered the sanctuary. "Zabid, I've always wanted to see tarsiers in person. They're like nature's own little comedians with those big eyes."
Zabid grinned. "Comedians, you say? Well, let's hope they bring some laughter into our day."
As they strolled through the sanctuary, they spotted the first tarsier. It clung to a tree branch, its enormous round eyes peering out from behind the foliage.
Nancy couldn't help herself and began to speak to it in a playful, exaggerated manner. "Hello there, little tarsier! We've come all the way to see your adorable, round eyes. Can you give us a wink?"
Zabid chuckled at Nancy's theatrics. "Nancy, I think you've just asked a tarsier to wink at you."
The tarsier, as if understanding Nancy's request, blinked its enormous eyes slowly. Nancy and Zabid burst into laughter. "I think it just winked at me, Zabid!"
As they continued exploring the sanctuary, they spotted more tarsiers perched on tree branches, their eyes darting around in search of insects. The tarsiers' petite size and oversized eyes made them look like creatures from a whimsical fairy tale.
Zabid couldn't help but be captivated. "They really are remarkable, Nancy. I can't believe how tiny and agile they are."
Nancy was having a blast interacting with the tarsiers. She mimicked their wide-eyed expressions and said in a faux tarsier voice, "We are the guardians of the trees, watching over the forest."
Zabid joined in, speaking like a tarsier. "We eat bugs, we leap from tree to tree, and we're just the cutest creatures in the forest."
Their silliness attracted the attention of the tarsiers, and one particularly curious tarsier ventured closer to them, its eyes fixated on Nancy and Zabid. It seemed to be watching their antics with keen interest.
Nancy nudged Zabid, whispering, "Look, Zabid, I think this tarsier wants to join our comedy act."
Zabid leaned closer, speaking in a conspiratorial tone to the tarsier. "Well, little friend, you're more than welcome to join our comedy show."
The tarsier, as if encouraged, blinked rapidly and tilted its head in a way that made Nancy and Zabid burst into giggles. "I think we've just recruited a tarsier as our newest comedian, Zabid!"
They spent more time in the sanctuary, learning about the conservation efforts to protect these precious creatures. They admired the tarsiers from a respectful distance and whispered their appreciation for the sanctuary's mission.
As they left the sanctuary, Nancy's eyes sparkled with delight. "Zabid, this has been such a unique experience. I never imagined I'd be part of a tarsier comedy show."
Zabid took Nancy's hand and smiled. "Nancy, these small moments of laughter and wonder are what make our journey special. And, you know, the tarsier comedy show might just become a tradition for us."
Nancy laughed. "I'm all for it, Zabid. Our tarsier friends seem to enjoy our humor."
They walked away from the tarsier sanctuary, hand in hand, their hearts full of appreciation for the unique and endearing wildlife they had encountered in Bohol. The tarsiers, with their big eyes and seemingly curious personalities, had added a touch of whimsy and laughter to their Philippine adventure.