Even in the empty classroom, the voice from the intercom continued.
“What horrid little things, humans…” The voice was utterly devoid of emotion. “They’re just as the seven sins describe: greedy, prideful, wrathful, gluttonous, lustful, envious, slothful. They haven’t learned a thing in all these years. No wonder the earth is on the brink of death.
“Who do they think the world belongs to? Them? Of course not. The earth never asked for them to exist. And yet, they war and quibble over Her bounties, as if they were theirs to claim. Even wars of ‘religion’ are so utterly mercantile. How foolish.”
The voice took on a tint of humor as it continued.
“I’m rather impressed he remained so pure, even in such a world. And to think, he hasn’t even considered revenge! Though admittedly, I can’t tell if he’s truly satisfied with his life or he’s simply given up.”
The voice chuckled.
“If humanity really is beyond redemption, then you were made in the image of no man, child. It’s the rare case like you that makes humans so entertaining, so loveable yet so foul.” The voice was filled with warmth, like a doting mother’s. “I suppose I should watch over humanity a little longer. I pray for your happiness, one and all.”
And with that, the intercom fell eternally silent.
✦ ✦ ✦
“Yep, I’ve got no idea where the hell I am.”
After the whole transportation thing, I found myself smack dab in the middle of a forest. I just hoped there was a village nearby.
“Alright, let’s see what I’ve got on me!”
Silence.
“Dammit, I can’t calm down!
“And I can’t stop talking to myself! What’s wrong with me?!
“I guess I should pick a direction and start walking.
“Standing around and moping won’t solve anything. Besides, I’ve never been in a forest this dense before, and it’s starting to creep me out.
“Nothing’s gonna try and eat me … right?”
I started walking, looking over my shoulders all the while.
I bet I set off a flag there. Oh, I’m so screwed.