The Mission ***

It was pitch dark. I moved stealthily along the shadows of the tall wall. As I crouched behind a pillar, I could see the slight figure, shirtless, sitting on the platform. A light cool breeze blew from the neem tree. I waited patiently. Anytime now. And soon, as expected, he got up, patting his protruding tummy. He belched loudly, as he moved towards the building at the far end of the compound.

As he entered the building, I silently scrambled, reaching the back of the building in several agile leaps. I quickly surveyed the scene, climbing onto the iron pipe and peering over the sills of the tiny square windows. Yes. I could see the top of his head.

As I stood, waiting for the right moment, the man grunted. A soft plop. Holding my breath, I gingerly reached through the window. Heart beating furiously, I surveyed the escape route.

Then, in a swift movement, I grabbed the chain and tugged. A terrific whoosh, and a moment when time stood still. I leaped down and ran. Just then he let loose a blood curdling cry, 'Dey, yarra athu. Badava raskol.' I was soon at the gate. Safe. Mission accomplished.