The sergeant said: "It's because nobody is as stupid as you are. Can you please tell me what you expect to find there?"
The historian said: "Well, we might not find it but we will keep searching for it until the end. Can you tell me what the meaning of your life is?"
"I am a sergeant in the US armed forces. I fight against terror and serve humanity to bring peace. Is this meaningful enough for you?"
The historian said: "Ah, you must be fighting against Al-Qaeda right? Once an organization supported by US, and now an enemy to be disposed. Is that the meaning of your life?"
"I have fought against them and other groups to bring peace to the world which is pretty much the meaning of my life and I am proud of it."
The historian said: "So you must be happy that all terrorists will die after the asteroid and your life will have a great meaning."
"I truly believe this is a lesson from God. Jesus is going to do the last bit for us."
The scientist broke in: "Alright sergeant. If you don't want to come we can drop you off here. You may look for a transport or just walk."
"You should show some respect to a man who has risked his life for his country and citizens like you. I could easily neutralize two women and acquire the truck which I am legally allowed in my region. You must thank God for the mercy I show."
By the time he finished his last sentence they heard a gunshot. "Keep your heads down! Keep your heads down!" The sergeant shouted several times from the back seat of the truck.
The scientist slowly stepped on the brakes and stopped the truck. "In the mirror, I see a man with a rifle. He is way behind us."
"Hit the gas! He is probably a mujahid. He is a terrorist!" The sergeant whispered very loudly keeping his head down. "He won't let us go if he knows I'm here. Keep going! Keep going!"
"No." The scientist said. "He put his gun down now. I think he fired into the air to catch our attention. He must be in need of help. We will wait for him."
"Never trust him. We must go! Oh my God!" The sergeant kept telling the same things until the man approached the truck and looked at the scientist's face saying: "American?" with a Pakistani accent.
"Please." He could hardly speak and looked worn out.
YOU ARE READING
The Return of Dragon of Mohenjo-Daro
Short StoryWhat would people do in their last 24 hours when an asteroid is about to hit and destroy life? This story is a last minute search for the meaning of life. It is a political and an environmental criticism melted in one pot.
