The emptied lockers told of those who had left in desperation seeking safety from what was to come. Emptied spaces echoed with the footfall of the caretaker as he meandered the corridors with the knowledge that soon the remaining boxes would be gone. He had no desire to run and was ready to meet his death. He had lived long enough and was tired of the day to day struggle to survive. He would stay here, defend what belonged to others, and buy them time. And in so doing, he may – maybe – absolve himself of a life lived selfishly.
© Colline Kook-Chun, 2016
(This post was inspired by Friday Fictioneers hosted by Rochelle. The challenge asks for bloggers to write a story in 100 words or less in response to the photo prompt.)
Very atmospheric, Colline
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Than you Neil.
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The ultimate sacrifice. At least he has realised before it is too late, that he can still make a difference.
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And sometimes all it takes is that réalisation that you can make a difference.
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Dear Colline,
The feeling of repentance is strong in this. A lot more story layered between the lines.
Shalom,
Rochelle
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Thank you Rochelle. I do think he wants to atone for his past actions.
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A new kind of hero.
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I like that! Thank you.
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Too little too late? A sorrowful tale indeed.
Here’s my tale!
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One hopes that his efforts are not too late – especially when his intention is to hinder the progress of the upcoming disaster.
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That ending has a powerful impact. We probably all need to do a little more introspection and a lot less criticism.
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Thank you. It is so easy to criticize, isn’t it? Introspection is so much harder to do which is why, I believe, people avoid it.
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He sounds like an interesting character, Colline
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Thank you. I think he would be worth exploring.
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That must have been a familiar scenario for a few, Colline. Nicely told 😏💕
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Thank you Jo. Empty lockers always make me think of departure!
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Gosh, that was so intriguing. I wonder what they are fleeing?
Susan A Eames at
Travel, Fiction and Photos
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I am thinking that this is a story I need to expand!
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Oh I like this, I wonder why he was so selfish? Good stuff
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Thank you so much. There is definitely more to this story!
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Nicely done and a empathic spin on this prompt!
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Thank you so much for your compliment. I appreciate it.
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🙂
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Oooo this begs for more! Facinating characters, so many questions 😀.
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Thank you Tanille. The character of the caretaker does deserve more exploration.
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Some penance the caretaker is subjecting himself to. Hope he gets his salvation.
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If his intentions are good, I think he will.
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This is a good piece, Colline.
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Thank you so much Robbie. I think I was inspired 😊
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It is never too late to try and make amends.
Good one, Colline.
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Thank you Dale. And I agree.
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A powerful story of atonement, Colline. Very well written.
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Thank you for reading.
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The gloomy tone fits perfectly with the subject – the final self-sacrifice to repent and the menacing overtone of what is to come lingers on after the story ends.
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Thank you so much. This was what I was hoping to achieve.
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Maybe in the end the warden is more a prisoner than those in the prison.
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I imagine not a prison, but a series of homes.
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Sad story.
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With maybe a glimmer of hope? 😀
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Yes. Thanks Colline.
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