Reflections

“No one knew of the covert project to upgrade animals into soldiers, another experiment that ran amok, as always happened. But that was long ago, children.”

“Is that why we hide in caves?”

“Yes. Call it animal cruelty.”

Upon arrival, the red effigy of an angel awaited, leaning over a pedestal made of crumbling dirt. Without hesitation, I blew my horn and ended its stasis. 

The angel arched her neck and said, “Speak your intent.” 

“I want knowledge.”

“So, earn it. Read. Study.”

“An automated factory, that's what the colony needs.”

The audience laughed heartily. Their eyes met while they straightened their large mustaches. 

“And why do we need such a facility?”

“To free mankind of tedious chores.”

“No. Keep them busy, or they will demand more.”

The passage took me to a wooden cabin among leafless trees. A labyrinthine pattern of sand surrounded the place, rendering access cumbersome yet possible. My heart thumped; fear arrested my pace. Entering was risky, but life always is, so I went in.