Hong Kong Young Writers Anthologies Fiction 4-7 2019 | Page 121

Fifth Entry — Winter, Mid November, 1408 “New Friends”
The early mornings and late nights test us from the freezing conditions at sea. I regret not bringing enough provisions to
keep me warm, but Xiao He had helped me with an extra blanket. With the wind rising we at least were making better
time to our destination, it was now commonly thought we would arrive by January. As we crossed the choppy water, a
vessel which was a mere pinprick appeared in the distance. As we came closer, it was evident three people were aboard.
Upon more closer inspection one appeared to be a female, I thought at that time this spells trouble. After hauling them
aboard they explained their plight, being former members of a pirate gang they had dared to escape and look for new
found freedom. There were some who showed distrust of them, yet the Captain believed and offered them shelter.
After consulting with all three of our new
crew, my mind was turned from believing all pirates were no good to giving them some credibility at least. As the
navigational officer, they enlightened me with some really useful information about the whereabouts of several pirate
ships. We changed course after informing the captain, hopefully giving us safe passage for the rest of our voyage.
The ex-pirate Yu Xi had been spending more time with me recently. She amuses me with her tales which although
seemed exaggerated, I am sure the cores are true. She is neither beautiful or ugly, but has a child-like appearance for
one who is so experienced in life. I am drawn to her purely on a platonic basis, although I must admit time passes easily
in her company.
Sixth Entry — Winter, January 1st, 1409
“Anticipating Arrival”
As the new year just turned six days travel to our destination, the talk onboard was how we will be greeted, when could
we accomplish our goals, and would India become a friend rather than an enemy. I now knew the Captain’s plan was to
offer gold in return for support in times of war. My own thinking was more about what we would find on this strange
land. Although I had some knowledge, I was sure the full picture would be different. There was lots to prepare,
wooden crates to be lifted and organized, the white flag raised as a sign of peace, and a full clean down of the ship and
everything in its place as Captain Zheng was a stickler for neatness and order.
The captain organized for twelve of us to go ashore, firstly for fear of antagonizing the natives, and also to leave the ship
crewed well enough to protect its cargo. I was keen to go ashore, and knowing that my friends would also accompany
me, this adventure would be special. For the next six days, I am sure I will have sleepless nights.
Seventh Entry—Winter, January 7th, 1409 “The first leg”
I heard rumors and stories about this land we were going to. They called it “the Muslim Kingdom”, ruled by the Sultan
and with Persian being the spoken language. We were met by local chiefs who undoubtedly knew our arrival, as we
came in peace flying the white flag. The captain explained that he brought gifts to seek for alliances and wishing to meet
the Sultan. A meeting was quickly arranged. So far so good. We were transported for seventeen hours before arriving to
the Sultan’s palace. We felt vulnerable being far away from our ship, but at least we had no valuable cargo with us.