Fiction
Freedom
by Bradley Tucker
The gazelle gazed out across the Savannah. Two long, dark horns stood atop its head in warning. Its ever-watchful eyes darted once more across the endless plains of grass before lowering its head to drink the floodwater. It was the end of the wet season and rapidly depleting waters made this a very dangerous time for the gazelle.
Bamidele crouched perfectly still as he tightened his grip on the spear to his side. The searing heat of the African sun sent waves of exhaustion across his body. Beads of sweat trickled down the tense muscles of his back. He could feel his heart pulsating with the ferocity of a battle drum.
The signal was made. With an almost inhuman agility he was soon charging through grassy plains, spear in hand, at the startled gazelle. Two dark figures emerged from the undergrowth and joined the charge. As the three figures enclosed around the gazelle, the animal leapt into a frightened gallop at the gap to Bamidele’s right. The shaft of a spear flew over the frightened gazelle, missing it by inches. A few more seconds and the gazelle would be out of their reach. Bamidele knew the responsibility now lied with him. As the gazelle ran for freedom, Bamidele arched his back and with practised aim, launched his spear. He scarcely dared to breathe as the shaft swiftly descended. He sent a prayer to the…
