Thread by @IrelsMusings

continued from

https://twitter.com/IrelsMusings/status/1115780267430408192

The halls had windows. I looked out the window each time I went up a level, and each time I gazed out, the view was changing. The outside world was becoming livelier, more vibrant, and cleaner.

The buildings weren’t so imposing and box-like anymore but came in different shapes, colors, and sizes. I felt like the top level was within reach.

I lost count of the number of levels I climbed but since the halls have gotten smaller as I went higher,

I finally entered a small room. It was about 30 square meters, carpeted, with wooden pillars decked with intricate carvings. There were a few people of varied ages, most of them quite mature. One group was playing charades.

Another group was playing various instruments like in a mini orchestra. Yet another group was busy with their paintbrushes and easels. A few of them looked at me and smiled. Some invited me to join them.

“The authorities are after me. I need help.” A look of concern fell on their faces. We were startled by loud banging on the enormous wooden door. I looked around but it seemed like I was at a dead end.4

This is it! The beginning of my demise.

I felt a tender hand on my elbow. It was a kind-looking old lady nudging me back to the moment. I noticed everyone in the room was urging me to act on something. They were pointing up. Lo and behold, there was a hidden door to the attic – the final level.

I climbed up and grabbed an arm that extended from above. I was hoisted, the door behind securely shut, and no one would ever be able to follow or harm me.

The moment I stepped inside the last room, I turned completely human.

There were others, albeit very few, in the room – singing songs, engaging in deep conversations, smiling, and laughing. They were unlike the other humans outside the tower or the ones at the first few levels.

They were humans who thought for themselves and did not just accept what was thrown their way. They enjoyed their individualities and used that to create a harmonious blend. They savored each moment, not taking part in the ever churning and often uncontrollable machinery...

...of a society that has spun out of control. There was meaning and purpose in the things they did. They welcomed me into the fold. I felt safe. I was free.

I looked out the window. The trees were green, the streams were immaculate, the birds were singing an aria, and the sun shined its glorious light on peach and yellow flowers. There is hope after all.

I awoke.

-the end-
#dream #writing #shortstory