Hong Kong Young Writers Anthologies Fiction Group 2 - 2 | Page 43

The National Gallery of Exploration - Exhibit 87 - The Ming
Treasure Voyages
Sha Tin Junior School, Tan, Shannon - 10
1410, January 13th
31.027640, 120.699072
The winds were in our favour as we departed. Our ship, a Green Eyebrow surged ahead, the hull cutting
through waves. The oarsman's veins pumped, and Liujiagang was merely a grain of rice on the horizon. I
dutifully carried out my chores - scrubbing the deck, sweeping Commander Wang’s quarters and when I
had time, I set about exploring the vessel on this, her maiden voyage.
We’re off to win over the world. The Chinese will be respected, worshipped, honoured. Our riches,
achievements, sophistication will wow those barbarians. No one can defy us.
1410, October 24th
2.196, 102.2405
Just when I think I have seen everything we arrive at yet another exotic land. Towering beasts with nasty-
looking tusks and rough, saggy skin. Black pandas who effortlessly clamber to treetops. And a lumpy
pomelo! A taste and texture so meaty and tangy, what bliss! The natives are fascinated by our luxurious silk
and soothing tea. I’d assumed they were cavemen. But in truth, they’re much like us. I have seen the world
with new eyes.
But my senses are on high alert tonight. I have a feeling something is astir with Commander Wang. Ever
since we have neared Ceylon, he seems distant and aloof. Perhaps it is a bout of homesickness.
1411, February 3rd
6.927079, 79.861244
As I soundlessly scratch out this entry, I peep through the bamboo floorboards into the galley. I hear muffled
tones below my sagging hammock. I thought it must have been the cook… but he was in the doctor’s
office, getting treated for a grotesque gash. So who was downstairs?
This is what I overheard:
“So, Zheng He and his troops shall be lured with some imperial order to King Alakesvara and His Majesty’s
army will cut off the old seadog from the fleet. Then we just sail off!” Wang’s distinctive ShanXi accent
declared with his trademark aura of authority.
“Wha-what do we tell the Emperor?” a meek whispered reply . It sounded much like my half-sister, Song
Jiang, who was also on board.
I have no time to waste. I have to alert Zheng He! I shall be back soon, hopefully with good news.
1411, February 4th
6.927079, 79.861244
Alright, the dilemma I am facing is anything but good .
As I ran in a flurry to the bobbing rowboats, I heard cursing interrupting the serene night. Wang’s lean
figure charged like a bull at me. “Where are you going, Tai? You know the boats are off limits while we’re
docked!” he hissed, spittle flying everywhere.
He caught me glancing back at Zheng He’s treasure ship. “Aha! You little snitch! It was Song, wasn’t it?”
There was nothing else I could do but valiantly defend my sister and let him dump me in the hold where I
am currently locked inside.