but having an idea that intrigued him, he soared off, toward the other side of the moon, now holding his shield.
Soaring over The Sea Of Tranquility, Mike was awed by the beauty of the place, serene
and still, and well understood why the first American astronauts landing there named the area this. At last he approached what had been the landing site, seeing the American flag still standing, and the lunar terrain device left there by those so long ago, looking like toys from his advantage point. It filled him with pride to know that he had been the first human to see this site with the naked eye, and that now his job was done, all historic places like this would be preserved for others to see in the future....perhaps after he had ceased to exist, and they would never know the danger they'd been in....how close to annihilation by their own defenses.
Mike enjoyed a safe flight home, feeling he had enough energy for three more moon flights! He flew in the dome to a big welcome from all his friends! He was bounced around like a ping pong ball between them, as they shook his hand, kissed him, and patted his back. Even McCree was inside by this time, with the tech that knew his secret. Somebody brought out a bottle of champagne and opened it, spraying the group with its sweet foam. There were yells of surprise and enjoyment at this. Jeanie gave around paper cups and everyone was poured some of the bubbly beverage. Mike couldn't believe it all. It was finally over! he could relax now. The world was safe.....for the time being!
"A toast!" Dr. Cooper cried, and everyone lifted their glasses. "To Spirit Lad!" and they drank, Larry guzzling his down like it was going out of style, with a slightly plump Susie under his arm.
"Take it easy, son!" Cooper warned him, "Tomorrow's a work day, you know. It's our turn for a try at success!"
It sure was! The testing of The R.M.T.P. once again! But Mike never had so much fun in his life! Jeanie had brought his guitar from the apartment, and after he'd put on his street clothes he sang for them, the party not breaking up until ten p.m..
Jeanie went to sleep as soon as her head hit the pillow, feeling the effects of just a little too much to drink. The day's excitement left Mike exhausted, but he couldn't bring himself to fall asleep for quite some time. There were too many thoughts running through his mind. He had actually see the site of the first moon landing....not in a picture or on a film, but with his own eyes....and not from a space ship! It was too incredible! It couldn't have happened. But it had, and he was a hero....Mike Montaine, of all people! He felt great; and it wasn't so bad being different after all!