Passing Through
By Shawn Michael Hornsby


A large blue and green orb filled the view screen as I slowed my ship and entered high orbit. Several things caught my attention about this undiscovered place. Lights could be seen on the surface from this distance, methane and carbon dioxide polluted the atmosphere and there was a great deal of metallic debris that floated in low orbit.
“Computer, scan please,” I said.
“Scanning,” was the monotone reply.
As I watched this place with wonder, I began to daydream about the inhabitants. Perhaps they were scientists, whose mind expanding theories would revolutionize space travel. Perhaps they were engineers, whose architectural and mechanical designs would provide for the entire galaxy. My hearts raced as I thought of the glory such a discovery would bring to my family’s name.
“Scanning complete,” droned the computer, snapping me back to myself.
“Life signs?” I asked.
“Yes,” it replied.
My breathing became quick and heavy.
“Sentient beings?”
“Yes.”
I could hardly contain myself.
“High intelligence?”
“Highly unlikely,” it responded.
I let out a deep sigh.
“Catalogue it, and lets move on to the next one,” I said. “There is a decent sized planet not too far from here. It looks red. Let’s see if it turns up anything.”
“Confirmed,” said the computer as the engines ignited.


- - -
Shawn Michael Hornsby lives in northern Kentucky where he keeps his demons at bay with a large stick. He has previously been published in Static Movement.