Hong Kong Young Writers Anthologies Fiction 4-7 2019 | Page 295

Seawards
St. Mary's Canossian College, Lam, Adora - 16
I am a young scholar from the bustling capital city with the proud family name Cheng. I sincerely believe
that walking miles and miles, getting in touch with different people are efficient ways to learn about customs
across the vast territory. After seeking advices from master, I decided to go on an adventure alongside with a
cargo ship parking in the harbour.
I approached a seemingly nice man with squeaky whiskers, asking for his consent for going abroad the
vehicle. He paused for a while, and suddenly projected his voice, “Ahoy!”
That was a sound which was excellent in reminding others for alarming and dangerous situations, but I
prefer not to have such strong interruption during my sleep and my fantastic sweet dreams..
His voice pierced through my eardrum and I could hardly hear a thing for a short while until a short and
stout man appeared behind the cabin door, holding the left ear of a well-built rough man tightly. The tall
man who towered into the clouds moaned in pain, begging for the release of his tomato-like ear.
“Avast ye. This is exactly how you will be treated if you dare challenge my authority. If you turn your back
on me, folks, dance the hempen!” The short man roared like thunderstorm.
None made a single sound. As he was a grumpy man with voice like a foghorn... He was the man in charge.
The captain commanded,“Crew on deck, eyes on sea.”
I carefully inquired,“Where are we heading?”
“The compass is with me.”
“ So are you sure about the route, sir?”
“Mind your neck, matey”
“Mind your language, sir!”
With a sneer, the brawny guy blurted out, “If you want to be served by my Hempen halter, feel free to ask.
In case you are afraid, charm your tongue and shut yourself in the task!”
I was furious about such disrespectful act. But soon I realized in hope of settling my adventurous mind, I
must first follow, or say, obey the absurd rules and observe the hierarchy on board. Otherwise, I might be
kicked out or even killed and thrown into the ocean, unnoticed.
The cargo ship steadily sailed to the mid-sea ridge.
I decided to stay cool and collected through resting in the cabin.Just as the moment I stepped down the
staircase, I heard a deafening and blaring sign of victory.
The cabin crew members were indeed rambunctious and loud, but the excitement they showcased was
unusual. I hopped on the deck, and found most of them tap dancing in joy. An inconspicuous grin seemed
to show up on the captain's face, his eyes flickering with joy and excitement. His hands trembled, well
prepared for the revelation of the precious mystery.
His happy expression abruptly faded away, murmuring,” Shiver me timbers, this can't be. This can't be. This
could not have been true.”
I stepped forward and took a glimpse of a gigantic golden chest. It's shiny and glamorous outlook
contributed to the unreal aura of the discovery.
“The lost treasure of Mind treasure voyages!”