The massive rescue ship gleamed like a silver comet as it descended through the lunar atmosphere. Inside, Zara sat next to Kian and her parents, the hum of the engines soothing after the chaos they had endured.
Zara's gaze drifted toward the Moon's surface visible through the viewport — now peaceful, the broken black tower reduced to rubble, and the Lunaris Base flickering back to life.
Her mother squeezed her hand gently. "You were incredible, Zara."
Her father nodded, pride shining in his eyes. "You saved us all."
Kian smiled, slinging his tool belt off to rest. "I couldn't have done it without you."
As the ship touched down on Earth's spaceport, a crowd had already gathered — reporters, scientists, and officials from the Global Space Council. Cameras flashed and voices buzzed with excitement.
Zara felt a mix of nerves and pride as she stepped off the shuttle. The air smelled fresh and vibrant, a stark contrast to the sterile silence of the Moon.
A tall figure approached — the President of the Global Space Council. His voice was warm as he spoke, "Zara Mitchell, your courage and quick thinking have saved not just the Lunaris Base but the entire Earth. For that, we honour you with the Stellar Medal of Courage."
The medal, a shining star-shaped emblem, was pinned to her jacket. The crowd erupted in applause.
Taking the microphone, Zara's voice rang clear and steady:
"Real courage is doing the right thing when you're afraid. This medal isn't just for me — it's for everyone who believes in protecting our future, no matter the danger."
The crowd cheered louder, and Zara's heart swelled.
Later, as the sun set over Neo-Toronto's glowing skyline, Zara stood on a rooftop, staring up at the Moon. Her invention — the telescope she had crafted with so much care — reflected the moonlight at her.
She whispered to the stars, "This is only the beginning."
With Kian by her side and her family safe, Zara knew the universe held countless adventures waiting to be discovered.
The future was bright, and she was ready.