Hong Kong Young Writers Anthologies Fiction Group 3 - 2017 | Page 236

“I want all these children outside in a line now general.”
“Yes sir.” The General said saluting. “I’ll deal with you later.” He growled looking at Eleanor sinking his piercing eyes
into her flesh.
A little further away was another set of soldiers being led by another General. “I want you to go round to each of the
houses and take anyone from inside the houses. And bring them here.”
“Yes sir!” The soldier said in unison marching off.
“What’s the matter with you Henry?” Said Jimmy giving him a friendly punch in the arm. Jimmy and Henry have been
friends since they were born and they joined the army together as well. They had no secrets between each other
“You promise not to tell sergeant or the General right.”
“Of course not mate.”
“Thanks it’s just that, this all seems so wrong and mean. We’re meant to be protecting our people. Not just attacking
other countries for the sake of getting slaves!”
“I know what you mean, I feel the same way. But what can we do. After all we're only Privates.” Jimmy sighed as they
trudged along the dirt paths.
“This is stupid but...” Henry dropped his voice to a whisper. “I want to see if I can find her. I know she’s out there
somewhere I can feel it.”
Jimmy sighed “ Not this again!”
“Yes this again she said she came from Shanghai so if she is anywhere she bound to be here.” Henry said exasperated.
“Whatever.” Jimmy said as they came up to the first house. “Let’s just get this over with.” The two of them barged in
with their guns at the ready.
“Come out with your hands up.” Henry ordered in Chinese. A woman came out. Henry looked at the woman and
dropped his gun. The woman heard this and looked up.
They both stopped “Maya?” Henry asked in happy disbelief.
“Henry?” The woman was standing there flabbergasted.
“Is that really you?” Henry asked still not quite believing.
“Oh my gosh!” They ran to each other and just stood there hugging.
“Where have you been? I’ve missed you so much!”
“Hey, hate to be a bummer but the Sergeant said…” Jimmy stammered looking at Maya.
“What! I’m not taking my wife prisoner!” Henry said shocked.