Chapter Five: Reunion and Decision
Jose Rizal has been wondering why Andres Bonifacio sent him to Calamba. Last time he remembered, his mother, some of his siblings and Josephine were staying at his sister's (Narcisa) house in Manila. Additionally, he hadn't received any news from Paciano since a few weeks ago.
Arriving at Calamba by 1:30 am, Jose feels nostalgic. He's finally home once again.
As he approach their family's house, he heard some happy noises. Curious, Pepe looked into the front window and, to his surprise, saw his family and his wife joyfully celebrating Christmas, as if they want to forget their problems for at least a single night. Unknown to him, one of his "bodyguards" forgot to inform him that two days ago, his family moved back to Calamba after Governor Polavieja formally returned their ancestral home to them.
Jose then proceeds to knock on the door, startling the occupants inside. They're in for one hell (or heaven) of a surprise. Josephine is the one that opened the door, and almost fainted in shock after seeing her husband standing there. The others followed suit and was overly delighted to see their beloved brother. Jose's mother, Teodora, broke down in tears. For her, it was the best gift God ever give.
Later on, Jose and his family exchanged stories about the happenings in the last few days. Teodora was shocked, to say the least, after hearing about the Katipunan's daring rescue of his son. To take that kind of risk just to let his son live, she suspected that they need something from him.
Paciano arrived at their home by 2:15. He was so surprised and delighted to see his brother that he immediately embraced him and cried on his shoulder. They also exchanged stories afterwards. Jose was shocked when he learned that his elder brother joined the Katipunan, and Calamba is now a Katipunan territory. That explains the lack of Guardia Civil patrolling the streets.
...
It was 3:00. Jose is now on the balcony. He is contemplating about his recent discussion with Paciano. When he was asked of his future plans, Jose confessed that he's still confused. He then remembered the recent meeting with Bonifacio. The revolutionary leader asked him to become the head the revolution but he immediately refuse, owing to his principle of a bloodless struggle. Andres angrily berated Jose for his naivety, and the discussion become a series of arguments. Paciano advised him to take his time to decide, but not after telling him that he personally wanted him to be the man that will lead the whole nation to the right path, and that they're still counting on him.
His wife Josephine then approach him and they began a conversation. He asked for Josephine's view but she told him to do what he does best, and what his heart tells him. With that Pepe finally made his resolve. It may contradict his personal principles, but he'll never let his motherland go down the path of senseless destruction. He decided to meet again with Bonifacio to let him know his decision, one that may change the fate of the Revolution forever.