The End of it All

By the official count, it has been eight years, one month, and four days since it was announced to the world that the Earth is doomed. A complex state of matter had cascaded upon itself, far off in a corner of the universe, and is now swallowing everything in its path into nothingness. There is no way to prevent it, but when it arrives, they say it will be quick and unnoticeable. Since that day, civilization has been a mix of despair, unrest, and acceptance. With less than two years to go, it seemed like a good idea to get away from people and try to figure out your emotions.

Your latest stop was something like a mid-point between any nearby cities. Amid rolling hills is a nearby cottage at the end of a dirt road. It's late at night and the stars are absolutely gorgeous. Something in the back of your mind drove you to climb a hill and stargaze... and at the top of the hill, you find a woman. She greets you without looking in your direction.

"I rarely get visitors here. You are welcome to stay and gaze, or talk, if you wish. I am content either way."