By Crystal Arbogast

-----The plane glided through the atmosphere like a giant bird of prey. Inside, the glow of the control panel reflected off the pilot's goggles; the only light in his world. The roar of the engines were a hum in his ears and served as a reminder that he was still aloft and miles above the earth. As soon as his destination was reached he would play the role of photographer. Photos were to be taken for God and country, but not necessarily in that order.
-----He had not thought of God in a long time. There seemed to be no room for deep contemplation, only duty and orders. Besides, thoughts such as this would only bring back memories of home. They were like ghosts, which haunted him during these quiet times. His parents could never comprehend his duties. He knew that his mother would worry and pray harder in that small church. His dad would be concerned, but would quietly accept his son's position. Serving his country was a thing he could be proud of. He would rather see his son above the earth than digging below, breaking his back for the coal companies.
-----The signals registered as he approached his destination. Looking briefly out of the tiny window, the blackness of night seemed to go on forever. How alone he felt. The sun would be shining over the mountains of home now. The smell of coffee would be everywhere. He could hear his mother's voice calling out for his dad. He remembered her parting words on the day he left home. "Trust in the Lord, son. He will always be there with you. "
-----The plane lurched, and the pilot shook for a moment in his seat. Seconds later, another tremor and the voices in his head disappeared as he realized the craft was under attack. The lights flickered on and off and the gages gave no response as he flipped switches and checked monitors. The giant bird of prey was going down, into a strange and forbidden place.
-----He reached down for the zipper, which opened the pocket that held his last order. The capsule lay in his gloved hand.
-----"For God and country".
-----"Trust in the Lord, Son".
-----The pill fell between the pilot's fingers and his hand reached for the ejector button.