—
"Elder," I looked at the spreading green and suddenly thought of a question, "How did the Martian civilization become extinct four billion years ago?"
The light of the crystal pillar softened, and an ancient star map emerged: "It's not extinction, it's migration. They found a galaxy more suitable for survival, leaving us to guard the fire."
"Then why don't you go with them?"
"Because we believe——"
The light spots on the star map formed a pair of eyes, looking at me quietly.
"Every planet has life waiting to be awakened."
"As you Earthlings say, hope never goes out."
Mission: Hope never goes out