Witnesses
"Women and children first," the commander ordered.
The soldiers moved into the crowd, separating it into two parts and using their bayonets to prod people apart. A child clung to her father, screaming. A soldier grabbed her arm and pulled, dislocating the shoulder. She howled in pain, but it reached deaf ears.
"They're helpless. They've done nothing to hurt you. Let them go," the men implored, swelling forward against the guards.
The commander turned toward them. "Yes, they are helpless. Now you will know what it feels like. We like our slaves compliant."
"No, take us instead. Please. Let them live!" the men begged.
The crowd surged forward again, but it was useless; the commander was no longer listening. The soldiers moved the women and children to stand by the wall next to the deep pit.
"Ready," he told his squad, "Aim ..."
The corners of his mouth curled upward slightly.
"Fire!"
The bodies dropped, and now there were only silent tears from the crowd.