Excerpt: Life Sentence

Written on the stargate command stairs in Atlantis. A pledge to those of the Pegasus galaxy from the ancients themselves.
‘We hold these as the truth.
A hearty welcome to those of other worlds,
Visiting our home for the first time. welcome again
To those returning, you have been gone too long and your
Absence has weighed heavily on our souls. we are
Whole again that you are among us and we celebrate you being here again.
As we leave for distant worlds we pledge to respect the lands of
Our neighbours and to act with integrity as ambassadors in peace time
Of our people. travellers with open hearts will always be welcome. refugees
From tyranny may seek shelter under our roof and our people will lay
Down their lives to protect the weak and the just. let this be our pledge to those
Inhabitants of this world and all we may ever know. we will always strive to
Come in peace as we go in peace and you will be welcome in out sights forevermore’