The only thing that Samuel really dreaded was the arrival of Sharon's father and stepmother. But when they greeted them on the dock his future mother-in-law was all over him!
"You're a miracle, young man," she praised between kisses, "simply a miracle! We never thought this could possibly happen. You don't know how happy you've made us!"
Later Samuel and his father-in-law to be were alone, and Samuel tried to express his regrets that the marriage had been necessary so soon.
"Let's not even think about it!" Sharon's father interrupted. "As her mother has said, we consider what has happened a miracle. You're both a little young, but willing to take your responsibilities, and I think you're very mature for your years. I do hope we will be able to visit from time to time."
"So do I!" Samuel answered.
The marriage was a grand affair. The Commandant and his secretary served as Samuel's witnesses, which he considered an extra honor.
Roger threw in a new surprise, just before they all headed off to bed, after the reception.
"I've recommended you to take my place as cadet officer," he announced, "and that recommendation has been approved. I'm sure next year you will be senior cadet oficer, not just a junior."
Everybody in the room raised their glasses and cried "Here! Here!"
Sandy and Sniffer joined in with happy barks. Samuel had been so glad the deputies had been able to attend! It was so good to see Sandy up and around! Her recovery had taken longer than his! But she was now back doing her job, to everybody's joy.
The following day they got to sleep late but when they did get up there were a thousand last minute things to do! But finally they were all on the parade ground and the graduation was underway. Samuel noticed the Commandant looked nervous. He kept checking his watch and looking skyward. Finally they got to the presenting of awards. The Commandant got out of his wheel chair, made his way up to the podium with his secretary's assistance.
"Well," he began, "I thought we were going to have a surprise, a special guest to present the awards, but I guess he's not going to be able to make it. So the honor will have to fall to me. Cadet Samuel Star, please present yourself!"
Samuel started to rise and at that moment the noise of helicopters filled the air, becomking louder and louder. Three large, sleek passenger ships began to circle the parade ground. One swiftly shot in and landed, members of The Speaker's Guard quickly disembarked, hurried to the podium, and took up position. As that one maneuvered away, a second one landed, releasing a hoard of photographers. When that one lifted off, the third ship settled down.
When Samuel saw the words in the black circle and gold lettering that said "Spirit One," he let out a loud "Holy shit!"
The band began to play "The Speaker's Theme." Everyone in the audience rose, singing as the leader of The Spiritist Church disembarked from the helicopter, waving. He made his way to the reviewing stand, came up to The Commandant, greeted him warmly. The Commandant moved away from the podium, motioning him to take it. The First Speaker positioned himself behind it as the crowd cheered and clapped. He motioned them to sit down. When all was quiet he began to speak.

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