Safety on the Ridge

Safety on the Ridge is a small piece written to accompany the above speed painting. Painted in about two hours, the idea was to flesh out an idea, set a mood, and convey an environment. The writing below developed as the painting was completed.

He had an hour before he would need to head deeper into the trees.

He looked out over the valley and tried to remember what purpose was left in his search. He scarcely believed in those on the Station anymore. They waited, tucked under the covers of their traditions while the others drifted and vanished.

Weeks of travel and solitude wore on him.

An icy gust of wind filled the trees around him and forced its way under the edge of his jacket. The chill brought his attention back to the present. He figured he had seven days left of food but would be lucky to get half that time out of his fuel cells. Too many nights out in the cold.

Tonight he was safe at altitude but he cursed himself for his previous carelessness. He looked at his watch and then back down on the valley wondering how many of those who didn’t have shelter, or who couldn’t make the climb, would be taken by morning.

Another gust of wind. The weather was building quickly and he would have to move soon. He looked up at the rapidly disappearing stars and absently traced a seam on his jacket with what remained of his index finger. Snow started to fall, and he thought of his last conversation with Liana.