The things That Confine Us

Chapter one: Arrival

The weather was gloomy and cold when I stepped off the train and onto the damp, shallow ground. Everything was so different compared to being in the cramped, stuffy train. The air was filled with a scent of smoke and death. I looked around and noticed the barbed wire fence and the tall gates that gave the feeling of looming power and control. There were SS officers standing by the gate, possibly waiting for the train. I was being pushed forward by the others who accompanied me on the train and stopped when they all exited the train. I was now just inches away from one of the officers, who backed away a little. 

A few minutes passed by and the train left. Everyone was standing in a big crowd, anxiously waiting for something to happen. Then, one of the officers spoke. "Welcome to Auschwitz. You all have been brought here for selection." 

'Selection'? I thought. What were they selecting us for? Why were we really here? The officer spoke again as if reading my mind. "You will be selected to either work at the camp or to be transferred someplace else to be dealt with accordingly. We will take you to get ready for selection." 

A murmur rushed through the crowd as they talked amongst themselves. Their whispers filled with anxiety and fear for what was going to happen. I looked at the ground to avoid the gazes of the officers, who were starting to get annoyed and irritated. Suddenly, a loud gunshot pierced through the whispers and the crowd fell silent. The only sounds that remained were the sounds of the factories and the quiet sizzling of the smoke that slowly wafted from the gun. I kept my sea blue eyes on the ground despite being shaken from the sudden noise. I couldn't bring myself to look up at the one who initiated the fire. I was scared that next time he wouldn't miss. 

After the atmosphere had relaxed the officer spoke once more. "Now that we have your attention, you are to form into a single file line and follow us inside the camp where you will be prepared for the selection. If anyone tries to leave or retaliate in any way there will be consequences." That sent shivers down my spine. Consequences? Why would any want to risk their lives at a time like this? No one in their right mind would dare to retaliate. The SS officers start to step aside as everyone forms a line and heads through the gates. One of them stays behind to close the gates and turn on the electricity. 

We were all gathered in the middle of the camp. The line of people was back to being a clumped crowd as we all tried to see what was going on. The other SS officers had left for the other parts of the camp. One of the SS officers stayed behind with the group. His eyes scanned the crowd for a moment, before looking straight at us as he began to speak. "My name is Amory. I will be the commander of your block and barrack. You will follow every order I say without fail. And even though I have given you my name, you will address me as 'Sir'. If you answer with my name or anything else you will be punished." 

Despite his serious tone, he gave off a sense of kindness. I would guess none of the other Officers give their names. He looked nice as well. He had a soft rounded face and soft chocolate hair. His eyes were emerald green and they complimented his pale skin. He was tall and evenly built. 

For some reason he gave a sense of grace. Even though he is here to do terrible things he supposedly does them with grace and poise. He didn't seem to belong here.  

After another few minutes he spoke again. "I'll be taking you to get your designated numbers. It is to keep track of everything single one of you. However, if you are selected to go somewhere else you will not be participating." 

Numbers? Everything was so confusing. I have so many questions. But I knew I wouldn't get them answered.