Hope

A Flash Fiction Image Prompt

If he closed his eyes, he could still see them. The day they arrived, like angels descending from heaven on chariots of light. Their dome cities from the depths of space, now floated with the clouds. And with them, they brought hope. With promises of a better future. Free from war, hunger, and hate. Hope for humanity. A chance to join them amongst the stars.

If he closed his eyes, he could still see the billboards and posters. With images of their technological paradise, where everyone was happy and free.  He was only a child then, but he felt a surge of wonder and joy when his name was drawn in the global lottery. He was one of the fortunate ones.

If he closed his eyes, he could still see his parents’ tears as he left on his adventure. Having to be pried from his mother’s arms. A proud nod from his father.

The dome cities were a lie. They needed slaves, not friends. His body was now broken from spending his days digging for the ore that powered their technology. His mind shattered from nights spent staring at alien stars.

He looked up at the sky and saw a faint glimmer of light. It was another ship, coming to deliver more children for the mines. Children that will never see their parents again. Children who would soon learn the truth, as he did. A surge of anger and sorrow swelled within him. He wished he could warn them. He wished he could stop them. But he couldn’t.

But even decades later, if he closed his eyes, he could still see them.