Hong Kong Young Writers Anthologies Fiction 4-7 2019 | Page 190

Zheng He gestured for us to stay put. He walked up to the king and bowed.
“Esteemed emperor, we are delegates from the Ming emperor. We bring to you wishes for great prosperity
and wealth for your nation. We here have a letter addressed to you by the Ming emperor.”
An official ran up to Zheng He, bearing the said letter. The interpreter gave him the letter before
whispering a few words in his ear.
“We accept your invitation,” announced the emperor. Zheng He had a hint of a smile under his
professional façade.
Zheng He clapped his hands, and we pushed loads of treasure into his palace, including of course the marble
Mazu statue.
“This here is a statue of Mazu, who grants a safe journey on the seas. We hope all sailors, your nation`s and
mine, will experience peace so our nation can prosper together.”
The rest of our time in Ceylon showed us wonders of the type I never knew possible. Zheng He didn’t
seem fazed by these marvels of colour, scent, and luxury. He moved effortlessly from dignitary to meeting to
palace, a slight smile painted on his face. Upon seeing a shrine of the most ornate design, one of Zheng He’s
most trusted advisors turned to the Admiral and asked, “What can possibly beat this beauty and splendor.
What are your plans sir? Is our voyage complete
Zheng He smiled wryly, “We will be continuing our voyage westwards on to another continent. It is
named Africa in our books and holds wonders and beasts that dwarf even those of Ceylon.”
Sigh. How long will it be before I can return home?