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“This is more normal,” Launie informed him. “They all stayed grounded until you and I appeared in the air. It was a fine gesture on their parts toward you.” “Launie, do you not feel somewhat flattered with all this eat am ad re attention you are getting along with me?” Adam wanted to know. “No, not flattered, Adam. We rarely are flattered. We know joy and communion of spirit in such displays as these. When any one of us receives a privilege or widespread attention, the rest of us are glad, and confirm that one’s singular joy of the moment with some form of rejoicing. Some day your own earth will know this fullness of living.” Their little car slowed down and soon landed on the flat roof of a large building. Other crafts of various colors were parked there also. Launie opened the little gate and they stepped out. Adam looked at the roof, which was like translucent ivory. “Ammm,” he murmured. “No leak through this solid beauty.” “Leak what, Adam?” asked Launie, smiling. “This roof is fully one inch thick, but never worry. It is stronger than a foot of your strongest steel. This building is our central astro-navigational headquarters. From here we control and keep in contact with all our smaller ships in the sector of Andromeda, including Andromeda herself. There are a few smaller buildings at compass points here, and they are extensions of this. Each houses a particular branch of research. Antares is the chief of the department.” Launie took his hand in hers and led him down a stairway. After a short walk through door-lined corridors they came to the main office, and walked directly in. Adam got the impression he was in a sort of broadcasting station, and that this office was the very center. There sat Antares at an average, earth-type very center. There sat Antares at an average, earth-type desk, his demeanor one of calm expectancy. Launie walked to the desk, spoke his name with a slight bow of her head, and gave him a look of gratitude for this opportunity to be with him. Antares returned her sincere greeting. Then, Then, 112 SON OF THE SUN