Oarsmen

Commander’s friend: surprise. Battle silence: draw close
The galley creaks. Gulls cry. Slave-oars groan. Ship glides
Death glides
Christian blood-stained men move back and forth. Whips fly
They love their prey: same faith. Could be rescued this time
«Step forward, who’s god did you choose?»
«I did nothing but… I did nothing but stay true.»
Surrendered Ottoman Oarsmen set loose
«I did nothing but…»
«He did everything. He did all but stay true.»
«Let me explain false prayer.»
Chinese blade: two hands
Slavers, they sing, «Lies.»
One last bow. One last bow
«Step forward, who’s god did you choose?»
«I did nothing but… I did nothing but stay true.»
Surrendered Ottoman Oarsmen set loose
«I did nothing but…»
«He did everything.»
«I did nothing but…»
«He did everything. He did all but stay true
«He did everything. He did all but stay true.»