Fiction: Group 2
“Oh, just a test to determine if you deserve to be set free from the Pearl River Delta,” the Hydra
explained lightly. My spirits were lifted immensely. I was delighted and immediately asked for the test
papers. The Hydra cracked up as it heard this. “Who said anything about a test paper? The Test of Freedom
is a trial of your courage and bravery!” I was then told very precisely what to do: I had to go to the palace
of Poseidon and steal his trident.
I agreed, unaware of how dangerous it was. As I was about to set off on this perilous journey into
the deep sea, I was given a backpack, in which I was supposed to secure the holy trident.
After what seemed like eternity, I reached a towering dwelling. Judging by the turquoise glimmer
of its exterior, I predicted correctly that it was the home of Poseidon. I flinched at the sight of the robust
and heavily-armed guards. Quickly, I thought of a strategy. I inched up on the guards and took them by
surprise. This would give me the privilege of a head-start. They swung their clubs at me and I ducked. My
swift and agile reflexes made me fast as lightning; while their armor and helmets slowed them down. I got
past them in no time.
As fast as a speeding bullet, I dashed into the room…and there, to my expectation, was the
shimmering trident! I was just about to reach for it when I felt a surge of guilt. It was wrong. No matter
how much I wanted to get back home, I couldn’t do it. I had already messed up my life and shouldn’t
commit another crime. I left the palace empty-handed, and that was when I realized I had passed the test.
Bravery was demonstrated when I fought the guards. Courage was shown because by doing what was right,
I proved my integrity. I was filled with a gush of hope as I learned the invaluable lesson.
When the Hydra heard my story, it roared in fury, and with a violent swipe of its heads, I was sent
back to the orphanage with my head held high.
Long live the virtues – hope, courage and integrity. I hope these virtues will also inspire those who
need to overcome whatever hurdles they have to cross in life.
