From the depths of the Universe come I;
Returning to a world of blue
Visited a galaxy-rotation ago.
Then, I found what I sought - Intelligence.
They spoke in song;
They lived in peace;
They rejoiced in freedom.
One of their number gave his then-dying mind to me
To join other intellects
Collected in my unending quest.
His brain lives within me
And now, at last
I have returned to his azure globe.
I extend his brain/probe
And he sends his message of welcome -
But there is no reply.
Annoyed, frustrated, he calls
"Where are you?
Is there anybody there?"
I nullify little, insignificant flying things
Buzzing around me.
These are not my companion's people.
They are too small.
"Extinct! They are extinct!"
His song is mournful - I share his grief.
The azure world is useless now.
There is no reason for its continued existence
So, to give myself power, I deionise the atmosphere.
As I commence to destroy the planet
He calls, despairingly, one last time -
And receives a reply!
"We are here!
We are safe!
We are happy!
There is new life
Within my mate!
All is well - go in peace!"
The song is joyful and my companion is content.
Life will continue.
I retract the brain orb,
Ceasing planetary destruction
And turn away to continue my eternal quest.
I will return - in a galaxy-rotation, but now -
Into the depths of the Universe go I.
LINDA C WOOD
8801.13
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