"Few and Far Between"
A misted and hazy sun falls behind a cluster of rolling hills. The light streaks across in shades of fire and gold as deep purples begin to fill in the gaps of dusk. The likelihood of ever seeing this place again is far more than remote. It's peaceful here.
I hoist my pack more securely on my shoulders as I continue to gaze at the wonders of this world. A handful of samples clink within. I feel comfortable enough to close my eyes for pure relaxation as I breathe in the sweet odors of the rainforest I was walking in not three hours ago. Normally in this place, here before the gate, closing my eyes is a shield; protection from a storm of bullets or energy blasts. In other times I choose not to look back for pleasure, but for security.
I won't be receiving stitches when I get home. There won't be long debriefings about why I was forced to take a life. There won't be reason for another shower at two in the morning to wash away my sins. Not from this planet.
This place is beautiful. If it weren't for the things on the other planets it might have an infinite chance of remaining this way but it is doubtful at best. There is no constant place of sanctuary. I've seen it all too many times. Lush oasis, flitted amongst the stars in the far reaches of anything normal man has any inkling of. When man finds them, they wither and die. My body often feels as these planets do; the ones that have been used and beaten, but not today. Not in this place.
I feel a cool rush as the gate rushes to life and a static fills the otherwise peaceful breathing space.
"Let's go, Daniel."
I turn. I know all too well that this place is already in my past, and a future with one like it is few and far between.
Disclaimer: I own nothing but my laptop and imagination. Thank you for reading. Please review :)