[Chapter 2] The Last Elder of History

Chapter 2: Static Across the Ocean

This is the next installment of a serialized story about an increasingly probable outcome due to looming climate change. The story and every chapter will be available to subscribers. You can get started with a free 30-day trial below:

Without further ado, here is Chapter 2: Static Across the Ocean

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The next morning came quickly as air was already thick with humidity. Hemi was back in the fale, methodically cleaning his playing pieces with a soft cloth, when the static hiss erupted from the corner where the community radio sat perched on a crate.

It was a temperamental beast that someone salvaged and repaired years ago. Its casing was cracked and held together with cords of sennit and powered by a jury-rigged solar panel that often failed during cloudy weather.

Sione, the young man currently tasked with monitoring it, adjusted a dial and furrowed his brow. Then, through the crackle, a faint, rhythmic call sign emerged.

Hemi's hands grew still. He knew that call sign. It was Keanu. He let out a heavy sigh. Not again. Not this soon. He rose stiffly, his joints protesting, and made his way towards the radio station.