大象传媒

By Gia M

Suddenly, those around me stiffened. We were lined up as if we were about to get shot. In fact, that would have been a blessing. At least being shot would mean a quick death. However, this was a battle. We knew the majority of us would likely die, and at times it would be a slow and excruciating death. We could foresee this. We had experienced it many times, before our subsequent resurrection.

As I looked up and around, I could see my proud comrades, chests out hiding their apprehensiveness. The Bishop was silently praying, as she always did at this stage. The opposition were gnarling, baying for our blood.

This battle pitted one monarch against the other. The two kings, arch enemies, were posturing like heavyweight boxers with their entourage. They knew full well that one of them would be losing control of their kingdom. Their queens, their key ally, were by their side with all that was at stake. All were willing to die for their king on the battlefield. It was that black and white.

My comrades and I were first in line, however, on this occasion our strategy was to lead with our knights. They were to be our shining armour, bringing victory. They galloped towards the opposition. It seemed like it was going to be an easy win, however, in quick succession, they were both swiped to death.

I waited patiently for my chance to shine. Watching my comrades being chosen and moved forwards made me jealous as I continued to stay frozen. My time would surely come.

As the battle ebbed and flowed, our castle was under siege. Our beloved queen, in a bid to protect our castle, lost her life. Last time I played, my comrade gave me some advice which was to always stay positive. At this point, I was positive we were not going to win.

All seemed lost, there was despondency in the air. We were down to our last few comrades. We were sapped of all energy and totally crestfallen. This battle had been a long and bloody one. It looked like it had scampered away from us. I could smell defeat and my imminent death in the air. Just then a quivering hand reached towards me and shoved me forward. "Check mate," I heard. I looked around and saw that we had indeed ensnared the opposition's king like a mouse in a trap. He remained dignified as he fell. I, even with my lowly value, had played my role. We rejoiced. We had done it. We now needed time and space to rebuild the empire.

"Play again?" I heard. No! Not again! Not so soon! All of us were lined up again as if we were about to get shot and so the game of life restarted.