New Year

The world ended at midnight, that was what most people agreed to although there weren’t many people left in the world at the moment. It ended when there wasn’t screams of terror or pain, but with screams of happiness as billions around the world gathered to watch the countdown

timer tick down. “Five… four… three… two… one! HAPPY NEW LIFE!!!” everyone cheered, as the sky filled up with colourful bursts of light - no, not fireworks - nuclear bombs. The whole world stood together united in one faith, knowing they’re all headed to a better place very soon…

Except for roughly 1200 people watching from orbit. They were the result of a huge effort with the goal of building a self sufficient colony off Earth. They watched the “fireworks” below and knew they they were truly on their own.

“Our timeline just moved up 25 years,” I said. “What do you mean?” asked the governor. “Orbiting a dead planet, no new materials…technology…” I answered. The governor stammered, “This wasn’t the plan—“ “It doesnt matter! Earth is gone. We have no choice now but Proxima Centauri.”

A hush spread across the room. The obvious correctness of my statement echoed around the control deck. Two troopers escorted the beleaguered governor out. The rest of us stared off into space, contemplating the multi-year journey, conjuring hope in a desolate space.