Elephant Heist
A fictional account inspired by real events at the Belfast Zoo in 1941.
“I could live a thousand lives… and never again a moment like this.”
Aida gingerly slid the heavy gate, the metal’s agonizing creaking a problem they hadn’t solved. “I pray none of us ever live a moment like this again, Mick – and so should you!”
Mick’s face fell, though Claire could scarcely tell in the shadows. They stole across the grass and slipped into the structure like shadows themselves.
“It smells,” complained Bobby.
“What’d you expect?” Mick snapped.
“Is it going to make our house smell like this?” Bobby sneezed.
Claire rested a hand on their prize. “Shhhhh. Hurry. There’s rumors about an air raid.” She mounted the creature. “If the soldiers see us, it’s over for her.”
“It’s over for us all.”
Claire pulled Bobby up behind her, Aida took the lead as Mick guarded the rear. Sirens wailed and the young elephant quickened her pace, as eager to escape as the young thieves.
Panicked soldiers raced on the path above them, none thinking about orphans -- human or elephant.
“Soldiers took our mother, too.” Claire whispered into Rosie’s rumpled ear. “Mick says they won’t win.”
“Bullies never win,” Mick resolved. “Never.”
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Comments (38)
Such a lovely Story.
What a nice story! I didn’t k ow about the baby elephant kept safe in the backyard. It’s sad the other animals didn’t have the same luck. Just how much destruction at the hands of humans. Even innocent animals that first were ripped from their natural home and caged, just be shot. ☹️
Cute story... love the character voice. Gorgeous pics too.
A really lovely story! I might have to read about the true events!
Heartfelt story that reminds me of the movie "Water for Elephants." Awesome work.
This is lovely! People were so strong during the war, an amazing team player spirit. Thanks for bringing this to life.
this was a enjoyable read. Kind people
Wow! So amazing, very captivating story.
What an incredible story. I love how you brought it to life here for us. 💖 Wonderful 👏
This is such a gripping and poignant excerpt! Your writing beautifully captures the resilience and defiance of the human spirit in the face of adversity. Thank you for sharing this powerful moment with us!!!🥰🙌💕
Awww, I love that in the midst of chaos and the ugliness of war, there were people like this to offer kindness and hope :) Wonderfully told. Loved it! Congratulations on Top Story!!
A micro heist with a fascinating back story well done Holly
This was so good, Holly! I've never heard about this before; I love so much that it is based on a real story! Incredible job weaving this together in so few words. I always love your characters so much! Congrats on Top Story! 😊❤️❤️
Well woven story
Amazing
Congratulations, Holly! 🎉🎊🎊
Wow
I don't think I had heard about this until reading this. Well done on fitting so much into a 200 word story. And thank you for the history lesson too! Congrats on a thoroughly well-deserved Top Story, Holly!
That's agreat story. Check out mine if you want. https://vocal.media/poets/beyond-the-shadows-a-journey-of-dreams
💯
This is incredible! I had forgotten all about this story but you managed to bring it back to life in just a few short words. Great job!
Absolutely loved this. Impactful and incredibly engaging. The fact it is inspired from real events makes it even better! Well done
Oof, bittersweet. Love this take on the challenge!
So good Holly! I absolutely love the elephant heist, and that the story is inspired from actual events! Congrats on Top Story!
You did such a wonderful job with this! Congratulations on Top Story!