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The lily pond
This story was submitted by Ruth Lawrence and was a runner-up in our short story competition for young writers.
Its waters remain undisturbed by the slight breeze that stirs the tree tops into motion. A mirror, it reflects stillness and peace, the perfect remedy for a troubled mind. The depth of the water is hidden behind a green and white mask of lilies, stretching like stepping stones across the pond.
Not far away a cricket match is in progress, its noise adds to the pleasantness of the summer’s day. The cries of fielders calling for a favourable decision from the umpire, the thump of the ball connecting with the bat as it is sent far into the blue and then plummets down to the short green of the field.
A few spectators are scattered around the edge of the ground, passively enjoying the warm day and an interesting game. The day provides a challenge to the players, maintaining concentration amidst the heat. Under an oak tree the last batter is sound asleep, oblivious to the game continuing around him.
Fairclough and Blackacre have been rival villages for centuries and an annual cricket match is one way of evening the score. The current batter is doing well, as Fairclough’s blacksmith he has a strong arm. His last swing earned the team six runs. He wonders just how far he can hit the ball. Running towards him the bowler releases the spinning object; the batter catches it with his bat and sends it high above the fielders’ heads.
The pitch is cleared and the pond swallows its prize with ease. The surface quickly returns to its previous tranquillity and the ball is lost in its depths. Cricketers stand on its banks, contemplating who will be brave enough to wade through the stagnant waters and rescue the ball.
The calm water seems to mock the players, tempting them to enter. Held prisoner by underwater foliage, the cricket ball is visible.
Under his tree the last batter sleeps on, unaware of the problem that is prolonging his rest.
A coin is produced and the two captains allow fate to choose who will liberate the ball. Heads and the captain of the fielding team must start to remove his socks and shoes.
Back on the cricket field the bowler reluctantly takes the wet cricket ball and restarts the game.
