Hong Kong Young Writers Anthologies Fiction Group 3 | Page 260

“My fleet comprises of elites. We have 270 000 troops and at least 2868 ships sailing the seas in the
moment.” I paused, allowing my voice and message to sink.
With a sudden burst of confidence, confidence born of faith. Faith that I will get my crew out alive, and the
faith that the soldiers placed in me.
“We are the first great explorers of Earth, adventurers that have reached India and Africa. We rule the seas!
You’ve never heard of us because we have slayed all the sailors and pirates that dare cross us.” I spread my
arms for a dramatic flair.
“We--”
Then, as if by divine command, our fleet appeared on the horizon, its sails glistening in the sunrise. I
watched as it makes a steady approach, the outline of the fleet becoming more clear every moment. I was
struck by the sight--it was as if I was a waiting for rescue on the island again.
I watched as the captain’s expression morphed into fear.
“We have to leave! Now!” The captain frantically commanded as chaos erupted, sailors and soldiers alike
making a dash for their respective ships. They jumped aboard and hoisted the sail, which billowed, pulling
them away into the unknown.
I felt as if a heavy burden was lifted off my shoulders as the pirates retreated, sailing away.
-
“Thank Tianfei we survived!” A soldier exclaimed, cheering loudly as we regrouped with the main fleet.
“How did you even come up with such a crazy plan?” Zheng-He asked, his tone scolding but his face
portrayed relief that his squadron returned safely..
“My plan is the thirty-second stratagem from Sānshíliù jì: kōng chéng jì.Also known as the empty fort
strategy, this idea is used by many strategists.”
“Like Cao Cao in the Chengshi County incident and Zhao Yun in the Battle of Han River.” Zheng-He
affirmed, nodding as he listened.
“But what I did today relied on pure luck. If the fleet hadn’t arrived on time...” I trailed off, not wanting to
imagine the horrifying consequence of my impulsive actions. “The strategy is as risky as it is successful. I
shouldnt have strayed from the mission in the first place, or thought of a more solid battle plan when we
were ambushed.”
“I am still young and inexperienced,” I admitted quietly.
“But I hope I can stay on this fleet from now on and travel the seas.”
-
Sea spray splashes against my face and the floor beneath me sways. My thoughts became clouded with fear of
the unknown as I gaze at the sun sinking beneath the horizon. The sun cast its final golden rays down upon
the clouds, painting them bright red one last time.
I closed my eyes, as if I could escape my doubts if I block the view of the sunset.
It is too late for regrets. My tale begins now: as a part of the Ming Treasure Fleet.