The Dolphin
A large window with a beautiful view over the Black Sea; the
sun caressing the different shades of blue... My mood merges with the scenery,
and I feel somewhat lightheaded and optimistic.
The tournament only starts tomorrow, so there’s a full afternoon to enjoy the beautiful weather and sudden lift in spirits. “Disfrutar la tarde” comes to my mind and I smile. Sea, sun and dreamy views in wintertime are some things I’ve grown to associate with Spain. One time, not so long ago, when I felt the outside cold sneaking into myself, I knew I needed to find a way of fighting against it. What better way of doing it than learning the warm language of sun, tapas and siesta? Right. I need to prolong my Duolingo streak first. Fifteen minutes later I feel content enough to go for a walk. Hm, is it “caminar”?
Eforie Nord is a Romanian coastal town and resort by the
Black Sea. While it usually gets crowded during summer, its streets are almost
empty now. Plenty of national tournaments have been organized here in the last
few years.
My thoughts fly to those first years when I came to Eforie
Nord as a child to participate in its traditional summer chess festival. The
playing hall used to be just downstairs. I recall the joy I felt winning
against a 2150 rated player for the first time and the huge ice cream I
got as a reward after. Taking a sip of coffee, I also remember that time when, some
years ago, I quit the tournament after only playing a few rounds. A small part
of my heart broke and had to go to places more serene then. I realize there are
so many things anchoring me to this place. The worrying feeling takes over
completely and I feel a nod in my throat. I know now.
It was 2 years ago. I was playing in the Nationals here when
the nearby war has started. Its coldness made place for itself inside me and there
are no languages that can make it go away.
Perhaps, if I look over the sea, towards the horizon, I could even see it. Afterall, it’s just some 300 miles away. "Don’t think about it! Don’t
think about it? Don’t think about it. Don’t think about it…", echoes in my head like a mantra.
Trying to take another sip of coffee, I realize my cup is
empty.
I wonder where the dolphin is.
(To be continued)
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