Title: Athena Prospects Author: Stephen Ratliff (sratliff@runet.edu) Series: TNG, Marrissa Stories #10 Rating: [G] Parts: REV 1/1 Codes: n/a Author's Forward (or backward as the case may be) Athena Prospects is done or perhaps that should be Time Speeder has been revised. I just finished comparing the two and not much of Time Speeder is still here. Prologue Lyam Sympton looked normal. You would have never guessed that those brown eyes and brown hair covered a obsessed man. Most people believed that Star Fleet was an organization devoted to Science and Exploration, which also protected the Federation's borders. Lyam believed that it was a military organization just waiting for an opening to take over the Federation. He was willing to die for his convictions, and he wasn't the only one. So were his fellow members of Exploration Not Exploitation or ENE, as the press referred to them. However times being what they where, he did not need to die. He had a plan instead. In order to carry out that plan however he needed a constitution class starship. This was not an easy item to find but if you looked hard enough one could be bought or 'borrowed'. As for why he wanted one, that was simple, perhaps too simple. Seeking more information to further his theory on Star Fleet a friend of his had tapped into Star Fleet's mission log recorders; in particular, those of the original Enterprise. Lyam had laughed at the irony that Star Fleet would provide it's own undoing. Marrissa Amber Picard, Chief of Security, USS Enterprise, was lounging on her bed, with a pillow propped under her breast and a PADD in her right hand. Her left hand was twirling her long blond hair while she read the latest issue of Star Fleet's Starship Captain's Adventures. She was smiling at Captain James T Kirk's Corbinite Maneuver. "Incoming call for Lieutenant Marrissa Picard from the USS Miranda," the Computer announced. Marrissa jumped off the bed, pushed her hair back behind her shoulders and faced her view screen. "On Screen," She ordered. A red haired vulcan appeared. "Lieutenant Marrissa Picard I presume?" Marrissa nodded. "I'm Captain T'Gwen Washington. I've accepted your application as Fighter Commander on the Stargazer. You'll also be serving as its second officer." "Thank you sir," Marrissa responded. "I assume that my father has indicated that he will let me go?" "He has." "Then when and where should I report aboard?" Marrissa asked. "The Stargazer will be rendezvousing with the Enterprise in two days," Captain Washington responded. "Admiral Scott will yield command you then. You will meet up with me and our Cardassian First Officer at Deep Space Nine." "Aye sir," Marrissa responded. "It will be a pleasure serving with you." "Oh and one more thing," Captain Washington said. "Since you'll be serving as Second Officer, I'm promoting you to Lieutenant Commander, effective immediately." "Thank you sir." "You're welcome, Miranda out." Chapter One Marrissa rushed out of her room to find someone to tell her good news to. Out in the living room, Rear Admiral Jean-Luc Picard was lifting his sleeping twenty month old daughter Jacqueline off the couch. Seeing the onrushing Marrissa, he put his finger to his mouth and said, "Shhhh." "Sorry," Marrissa whispered. "I just learnt that I got the post on the Stargazer." "I know," her adoptive father replied. As he gently laid Jackie up against himself and began to carry the little girl to her room. "I had to approve your transfer, remember." "I never thought I'd get it." Marrissa gushed. "I've got to tell Clara." Clarrissa Ann Sutter was looking over the latest in warp drive design in her Popular Engineering Magazine. The Alpha Shift Warp Drive Systems Supervisor's desk was full of such publications, mingled among her Science, Social Studies, and Klingon Homework. On the bed behind her was her Princess gown, thrown there after the thirteen-year-old had gotten out of the diplomatic reception early that morning. Her silver taira still adorned her long black hair. The door chimed. "Enter." Marrissa entered, her new Lieutenant Commander's pip now fastened neatly to her collar. "Clara, I just got some good news." "Star Fleet just approved a warp system control capacitor upgrade," Clara said. "How would I hear about that?" Marrissa questioned. Then she noticed the periodical Clara had been reading. "Popular Engineering? Interesting reading." "I bet you were reading that Captain's Adventure trash," Clara responded. "Lieutenant, don't trash my reading," Marrissa responded smiling at the usual response. "At least my reading helps me do my job," Clara responded looking up at Marrissa. Her eyes fastened to the three pips on her friend's collar. "Commander?" "I told you I had good news," Marrissa responded. "I got the position on the Stargazer." "Fighter Commander?" Clara stated. "Yeah and Second Officer as well," Marrissa added. "I never thought I'd get either position. I'm only just turned fifteen. I just applied because I wanted to get out from under my father's command." "You're leaving the Enterprise," Clara remarked, her eyes dropping and her shoulders slumping. "Great, that means I've got the Kid's Crew Captain's job. One more duty into my already packed day." "You can give it to Shayna," Marrissa responded, gently prodding her young friend. "Marrissa, you remember the last time we put Shayna in command of a scenario?" Clara exclaimed, her hands thrusting out in a gesture of frustration. "You mean the Khitomer Scenario, in which she lasted almost the full ten minutes necessary," Marrissa responded. "So she's no James T. Kirk." "You know she'll be my number one," Clara remarked. "Do you really want her to have a chance to command this ship?" "She's not that bad," Marrissa dead panned. "You need your memory refreshed," Clara said. "Remember when we let her take command during a simulation of the Battle of Tarkcommon III? She had the ship turn and run." "She was out numbered three to one," Marrissa said. "It was good tactical sense." "And what do you do in that situation?" Clara inquired. "I plot a firing course past the enemies and into the star's corona," Marrissa said. "Then I exit it tractoring a portion behind me. That usually takes out one or two making the odds much better." "You tip the odds," Clara said. "I do that. Jay does that. Shayna runs home to mommy." "Her ship survives every time," Marrissa said. "The same can not be said for us." Chapter Two Lyam took one last look at his plans. Mentally he went over his check list. Cloaked missile, check, long distance laser scorer, boy that had been costly, check. Twenty Thousand Dollars in 1990's United States of America currency, check. Back up list of know ancestors of Prime Directive Captains, check. It looked like the only thing left was the starship to take them back to 1999. Marrissa materialized in the Stargazer's transporter room. It appeared to be not quite complete. None of the walls had panels covering their circuitry. Marrissa quickly spotted the navy panels stacked over in one corner. Behind the console was a white haired man wearing an Engineer's work suit with Rear-Admiral's pips. There was only one person that could be, "Admiral Scott?" Marrissa inquired. "Permission to come aboard?" "Granted, lassie," Scotty replied. "Or should I be calling yea Princess?" "Just Marrissa will be fine," Marrissa responded. "Welcome aboard your new ship, Marrissa," Scotty said. "Computer Recognize Scott, Admiral Montgomery, and transfer command to Lieutenant Commander Marrissa Amber Picard, per Star Fleet orders." "Transfer complete, USS Stargazer is now under the command of Lieutenant Commander Marrissa Picard." "I though as an Admiral, you would want to be in command," Marrissa stated. "Marrissa, my lass, I never wanted command," Scotty said. "I just took the promotions so I could do my job better and with less interference from the desk jockeys at Star Fleet Command." "Since our Chief Engineer has yet to be assigned, I assume you are filling that position?" Marrissa asked. "Aye." Marrissa entered the suite of rooms dedicated for the use of the Second Officer. They were located next to the Ship's bar which was named Seven Slightly Starboard for it's location. The first room she entered was an office. In contained a desk, a couple chairs and a sofa under the window. The desk was perpendicular to outside wall. She hung the painting Data had given her behind the desk. Across the room was the door to the rest of her quarters, next to the replicator. She walked though it to discover a well apportioned room with a table and three chairs, another sofa and a double bed. The far wall sported another opening which lead to a bathroom with a real tub, perfect for Marrissa's bubble baths. As Marrissa exited the bathroom her door chimed. Walking back to her office, Marrissa said, "Come." A young woman entered tentatively. She was carrying the rest of Marrissa's belongings. "The Quartermaster said you wanted this," she said, indicating the stuff she was carrying. "Just put it on my desk, Crewman ?" Marrissa said indicating that she wanted to know the older woman's name. "Peterson, Yeoman Diane Peterson," the crewman replied. "The Quartermaster has assigned me to be your yeoman." "Well then, Yeoman, get ready for a lot of work," Marrissa responded. "I probably hold the most jobs of anyone on the ship." "I'll do my best sir," the Yeoman replied. "I have no doubt that you will," Marrissa said. "The question is, can we have fun doing it?" "Is that an order, sir?" the Yeoman said. "No, just a suggestion," Marissa said. "But I find it's one that makes the job easier." Chapter Three Lyam Sympton was ready to move. A group of his colleagues had joined him in his private yacht, the Star Fleet's Bane. They were just entering the Zed-15 Depot Yard. Their objective was the decommissioned USS Eagle NCC-956. "Have they detected us?" Lyam asked his comrade and Engineering Specialist, Boris Gutanhoff. "I don't think so," Boris replied. "Ready Boarding parties, Frank," Lyam ordered. "Boris, I want that ship operational ASAP." "I'll do my best," Boris responded. "Hopefully they won't have stripped it too much." Moment's latter two dozen hired guns beamed on board the Eagle. They fanned out and checked out the empty ship. Signaling all clear, the leader requested that the Engineer be beamed aboard. Boris got right to work on the shuttlebay doors. Despite the fact that the Eagle had been out of service for more than 50 years, the bay doors still opened allowing the Star Fleet's Bane to squeeze into the bay. Lyam Sympton exited the yacht. "Welcome aboard, Captain," Boris said. "How is our transportation Boris?" Lyam asked. "No weapons but she'll go fast enough to break the speed limit and get us where or shall I say when we're going," Boris replied. "Then lets get under way before the supply yard notices us," Lyam ordered. "I'll be on the Bridge." Personal Log USS Stargazer NCC-2893 STARDATE 51671.35 Lieutenant Commander Marrissa Picard, acting Captain. We are currently proceeding to Deep Space Nine to pick up the Captain and the Cardassian members of our crew. I am somewhat uneasy about having Cardassians serving on the Stargazer. It hasn't been long since they were enemies. In fact I've even fought them. I have to admit, though, that the situation in the Demilitarized zone calls for just such a crew. Perhaps together, we'll be able to end the fighting between those people who don't believe the war is over. Late that evening, Lavelle was dealing the latest round of poker in Seven Slightly Starboard. "Five of Diamonds for the Security Chief, Seven of Diamonds for his wife, Jack of Clubs for the Admiral, King of Hearts for the Princess, and a Eight of Hearts for me." "Another Five for Ross, a heart this time; a Nine of Diamonds for his boss, A King of Diamonds for Admiral Scott, a Queen of Hearts for the Princess that steals them, and a eight of Clubs for the dealer. Ante up." "Sam, if you keep up those jokes up, I'm going to club you," Katherine Lochard said. "Ah, but you forget, I out rank you," Lavelle replied. "A Four of Diamonds for Ross. a 10 of Diamonds for a possible straight for Kathy. A Two of Hearts for Scotty. An Ace of Hearts for the Captain's daughter, and a Eight of Clubs for the dealer." "If she doesn't I will," Marrissa said. "And I outrank you." "Idol threats," Lavelle dismissed. "A Four of Clubs for Security, a Six of Diamonds for his Wife, a Two of Diamonds for the Miracle Worker, a Ten of Hearts for the Royal Officer, and a Four of Clubs for me." "I fold," Ross said. "I'm in," Kathy said, tossing in 10. "I fold," Scotty said. "I'll see your 10, and raise you 5," Marrissa said. "I'll see your 15, and raise you 10," Lavelle called. "Too rich for me, I fold," Kathy said. "I'll see your 10, and raise you 20," Marrissa said. "I fold," Lavelle said. "Lavelle you need more confidence in your hand," Marrissa stated, revealing her hole card, the Seven of Hearts. "I'll sit out the next couple. I don't want to win all of your money before we even get the full crew on board, Lavelle." Marrissa got up and went over to Mary, the ship's barkeep / Quartermaster, who was dusting the piano next to Marrissa's wall. "Mary, what is an old fashion upright piano doing in a Starship bar." "Piano's have always been in bars since the ancient west on Earth," Mary responded. "I hear you play." "Not much, and I quit lessons when I was ten," Marrissa said. "Sometime I'll have to pick it up again." "No time like the present," Mary said. "All right, but I'm warning you I haven't practiced in a good two years, three years - maybe more," Marrissa warned. Then she began playing the Blue Danube Waltz. A little hesitant and occasionally she made a mistake but on the whole it sounded pretty good. "Hey, Marrissa, this is a bar, not a concert hall," Ross shouted. "OK, you asked for it," Marrissa said. "Mary, get me a strawberry juice." Ross looked over at her thinking 'not again,' but Marrissa wasn't going to do that. She began playing the Entertainer. "Marrissa, that's still not right," Ross said back. "Hey, you give me the music and a month to study it and maybe I'll play it," Marrissa responded. As Marrissa continued to play, a young man phased into view behind her. "Are you sure you haven't been practicing?" he whispered in her ear. Marrissa whirled around on the piano stool to face him. "Wesley Eugene Crusher, what are you doing here?" "Well, little sister, I though I'd drop by to see you," Wesley replied. "Wes, you never 'drop by'," Marrissa retorted. "Who said I couldn't change?" Wes replied, plastering a smile on his face. "This from the guy who hasn't seen his little sister since the week after she was born," Marrissa said, staring. She thought it was unfair that she had been stuck with all the older sibling duties for the now almost two year-old girl. Wesley relented. "Actually I'm working for Star Fleet Temporal Investigations Prevention Division and you happen to be heading to my next job." Marrissa continued to stare. "And I'll visit Mom and Jackie when we get back." "Welcome aboard Wes," Marrissa said. "Come let me introduce you to the crew, but I'd advise you not to join the poker game. Your bluff is worse than Lavelle's. I see you got a promotion to Lieutenant junior grade. Took you long enough." "Sorry, not every officer can move though the ranks as fast as you," Wesley said. "Are you sure Dad didn't help you?" "The only help Dad gives me is with my swordsmanship, and you know it, or have you been spending too much time out of time again?" Marrissa responded. "You know me, I've got all the time in the universe," Wesley replied. "Were as you have that really tight schedule. Tell me, did you schedule time to sleep this week?" "Knock it off, you two, some of us are trying to play poker over here," Ross Lochard said. Lyam Sympton was on the old constitution class starship's bridge. He wouldn't have admitted to his comrades, but when he was little he use to dream of commanding such a ship. An old ship, not one of those modern luxury yachts like the Galaxy Class. Of coarse that was part of the problem with Star Fleet. They were luxury minded warmongers who used their power to interfere with every conflict from Earth to the Gamma Quadrant. He and his group believed that it would have been better if the Earth hadn't been the primary influence in creating Star Fleet. If Earth hadn't had some planetary exploration under it's belt, than his organization, Exploration Not Exploitation, believed that Vulcans would have been able to control Star Fleet. This would, in there opinion, have reduced the exploitation that Star Fleet Captains did. "Lyam, all systems are ready," Boris said. "John set a coarse for Proxima Centauri, Warp 7," Lyam ordered. Chapter Four Marrissa came out of the Port Turbolift in the rear of the Stargazer's bridge. Before sitting down, she took a quick tour of the bridge. The Engineering station on her left when she entered was unmanned at the moment, and showed the ship to be in good condition to Marrissa's quick look. In the forward corner, past some auxiliary stations was Operations. Marrissa didn't know the name of the Ensign manning it, but he seemed competent as she checked. In the center below the view screen was the helm, referred to in current Star Fleet parlance as CONN, currently held by her Assistant Fighter Commander, who insisted on being called Kathy. Marrissa didn't mind. It solved the problem of two Lieutenant Lochards on the bridge. Next was the stairs to the Office Floor below, where the Captain's Ready Room, Primary Conference Room, Officer's Lounge, and First Officer's Office were located. Back towards the rear on the other side of the bridge from the Engineering Station was Fighter Command. Marrissa knew she'd be spending a lot of time at that station once the Captain arrived. It seemed to be well arranged, but since Star Fleet hadn't had a Fighter Carrier since before the Stargazer was originally commissioned, she was sure something wouldn't be right once the ship got into regular service. In the middle of the rear of the bridge, on the other side of the Starboard Turbolift was Tactical and Security, with Lieutenant Ross Lochard manning it. As Marrissa moved to take her seat in the Captain's chair, she asked Ross, "Ship's status?" "All systems normal," Ross replied. "No problems reported in the last two shifts from any department" "Very well," Marrissa said, looking to her right at the First Officer's chair. She wondered what it would be like to see a Cardassian in that seat. "Captain, I'm detecting a craft exceeding warp 5," Lieutenat Ross Lochard interupted. "Definite pre-refined warp drive. Current speed is warp 7 and accelerating." "Kathy, intercept coarse, maximum warp," Marrissa ordered. Fleet vessels were required to stop speeding ships. Federation congress had tacked the duty on when the subspace rupture problem had been found. "Ross, additional data please." "Sensors indicate, no this can't be right, Ops, confirm my readings," Lieutenant Ross Lochard said. "Readings confirmed, vessel is the constitution class starship USS Eagle, NCC-956," the ensign at Ops replied. "The constitution class was retired over 50 years ago," Marrissa stated. "Ross, where was the Eagle stored?" "The Zed-15 depot yard," Ross said. "Didn't they lose several starships several years ago?" "Well they've lost another one," Marrissa said as Scotty entered the bridge. "Time to intercept, Kathy." "Ten minutes," Kathy responded. "But they're going awful close to that star." "It might as well be 10 years," Scotty said. "They're attempting time travel. Helm, you better change coarse to a hyperbolic, matching theirs as close as possible, if you want to catch them." Kathy looked at Marrissa. "You heard the Admiral," Marrissa said. "If I remember the descriptions of time travel, we better strap in. All hands, prepare for rough maneuvers. We have to come out of this as close as possible to the time which the Eagle does, so keep a close eye on them, Kathy." "And hope the new inertial dampeners are better than they were on the original Enterprise," Scotty said. Ahead of them the USS Eagle shot around Proxima Centauri and disappeared. Then the Stargazer followed suit. The whole ship shook. Down in Seven Slightly Starboard, the vases on the tables slid off on to the floor, shattering. Throughout the ship things fell from their places, however in a tribute to the new ship's engineering, no consoles exploded. Moments later they left warp, decelerating in another time. "Ships status, Engineering?" Marrissa said. "Tactical determine the location of the Eagle. Ops, current date please. Lieutenant Lavelle, Lieutenant Crusher report to the bridge." "All systems are normal, but I'd like to run a level two diagnostic to be sure," Scotty replied. "That takes systems off line, I'm afraid we can't risk that until we know were we are and what we are going to have to do," Marrissa said. "Run a level three instead." "Aye, sir," Scotty replied. "I've found the Eagle, Captain," Ross Lochard replied. "She is headed toward Earth. The Eagle has a lead time of about four hours on us." "Kathy, set a coarse to intercept," Marrissa ordered. "Ops, do you have the date for me?" "Aye sir, it is July 26, 1999," the ensign at Ops replied. "Happy negative 280th birthday Captain," Ross responded, grinning. "Ross," Kathy admonished, not sparing a look back at her husband, but her tone telling him of what she thought of his attempt at levity on the Bridge. "Captain the Eagle has already entered the Solar System," Ross informed. "Kathy where do you think you will catch up with them?" Marrissa asked. "I'd have to say in Earth orbit, assuming that's where they're going," Kathy Lochard replied as Wesley and Lieutenant Lavelle entered the bridge. "Any advice for me, big brother?" Marrissa asked Wesley. "Just don't let your ship be seen," Wesley replied. "Admiral Scott?" Marrissa questioned. "Visual and ray sensor screen active," Scotty replied. "The Eagle has entered Earth orbit," Ross appraised. "Time to orbit?" Marrissa asked. "Thirty seconds," Kathy said. "Hail the Eagle," Marrissa ordered. "Use subspace narrowband channels "They are refusing to respond," Ross said. "Detecting transporter activity." "Trace beam down location," Marrissa ordered. "Somewhere in Florida," Ross replied. "The Eagle is moving off." "Follow them," Marrissa ordered. "Ross, save those coordinates. Scotty, easiest way to take down their shields." "I can bring them down," Scotty said. "The question is what are they trying to do here?" "Good Question," Marrissa responded. "Computer Significant events in Earth History within the next two weeks." "July 29, King William V ascends the throne of Great Britain. August 1, first manned mission to Mars Launched. August 3, Iraq tries to invade Syria." "Computer, elaborate on the second one," Marrissa said. "August 1, 1999. The United States launched the Endeavor, the last part of the hybrid spacecraft Athena from Cape Canaveral, Florida. The mission was launched after the Mars Explorer landing in 1997 renewed interest. Despite being rushed to launch, the mission was an astounding success. That mission enabled an accelerated launch of several additional missions of exploration including the ill-fated Stargazer mission to Saturn." Chapter Five After beaming something or someone down to Florida, the Eagle moved out of orbit. Marrissa had to take action. She couldn't let the Eagle get away, but she couldn't let what ever beamed down to Florida get away either. She spied Wesley out of the corner of her eye and an idea hit. "Wes, can you go after whatever beamed down to Florida?" she asked. "Certainly, Sis," Wesley replied. "Go," Marrissa ordered. Wesley phased out of view as she turned back toward the viewscreen. "Kathy, close in on the Eagle. I don't need them at my back. Admiral Scott, is there any way to take those shields down without a light show?" "Aye, lassie," Scotty said, sitting down at the Engineering station and limbering up his fingers theatrically. "Just let me have a word with her computers and she'll be marching to my beat." "You know the Eagle's prefix code?" Marrissa inquired. "Aye, lass, I borrowed her to do some supply delivery for my refit projects," Scotty said, typing away. "I've lowered her shields." "Ross, I want that ship under our control and her crew in our brig," Lieutenant Commander Picard ordered. Wesley phased into existence in an alley near a beach. The interfering time travelers had beamed down into that very alley just five minutes before. Wesley would have arrived at the same time as they did if he could, but his recent travel had left him somewhat drained. Wesley wore black shorts and a white t-shirt which read "Stanford University Computer Science: We don't have a life, we have a program." He quickly scanned the area, looking for clues. Other than the recent tire prints in the sand of the alley, there was no sign of anyone having been there in weeks. The five minutes had been enough to let them get away. He tapped his communicator, which had been attached to his belt buckle. "Crusher to Stargazer," he said. "Stargazer here," his sister replied. "I assume you have good news?" "I'm afraid I got here to late," Wesley said. "I'm at the coordinates now, but they're long gone." "Can't you travel back to when they arrive?" Marrissa asked. "No, I don't have that much fine control, time-wise," Wesley explained "In addition, all my recent travel has dulled my abilities. I could use a good night's sleep." "OK, as soon as we finish securing the Eagle, we'll beam you up and see about finding a new plan," Marrissa decided. "Stargazer out." Wesley walked toward the beach, killing time until the Stargazer was back in range. It was early morning, about seven, and the beach was almost empty. There was woman with strawberry blond hair in a gray sweat shirt jogging up the beach with a man in a black suit following her. As she drew closer, Wes read the black words on her shirt, "Stanford University." Wes smiled, she was right on schedule. There was some advantage to being from the future. "Good morning, Chelsea," he said. Chelsea stopped, and her escort skidded to a stop beside her. "Wes, when did you get here?" "Five Minutes ago," Wesley said, as he closed the distance between them. "What took you so long?" Chelsea asked. "Its been three months since I last saw you." "Well you know, I live a couple hundred parsecs and 374 years away, and it's a hell of a commute," Wesley said smiling as Chelsea stepped up to him. "I know," Chelsea replied, hugging the time traveler. "I suppose you aren't going to tell me why you're here again." "That depends on my sister," Wesley responded, enjoying the feel of Chelsea in his arms. "Sister?" "Marrissa's in charge of this mission," Wesley replied, as a soft beep was heard. "Stargazer to Crusher," a voice said. "I assume that's her now," Chelsea said. "I'll leave you to talk to her. Come see me, if you can. I'm at 7631 Armstrong Drive." She withdrew from Wesley's arms and resumed her jog, with her Secret Service escort behind her. Wesley sighed. Maintaining a long distance relationship was not easy. "Crusher here," he said, answering the call. "Transporters are now available." "One to beam up now." Marrissa sat at the head of the table in the observation lounge receiving the bad news. Admiral Scott sat to her right, and her brother Wesley on her left. Lieutenant Ross Lochard, the Chief of Security, was next to Wesley. At the moment, Lochard was telling of his frustrated questioning of the crew of the Eagle. "I'm really getting tired of them calling me a war hawk and militarist," Lochard said. "It wouldn't be so bad if they would tell me something about what they plan to do, but they won't. The only thing I could get out is what they were saying when my security team beamed aboard. 'The prospects of Athena do not look good.' That's all I have." "Admiral Scott, what information do we have on the Athena?" Marrissa asked. "The Athena is a hybrid spacecraft to be assembled in orbit," Scotty said. "The first two components were launched by the Russians last week. They are the engine and fuel compartment and a secondary living space. The finial component is the Space Shuttle Endeavor. It will be launched from Cape Canaveral on the first, amid a quite a bit of fan fare and docked with the rest of the Athena on the third." "OK, that's their target," Marrissa stated. "We know that at least four members of the Eagle's crew are in Florida with a 24th Century Technology. How can we stop them without revealing ourselves?" "I have some contacts that may help us," Wesley said. "I've worked in this time period before. I know the current President and his daughter. They've helped before. Since the President will be attending the launch, I think he will allow us to be added to the Secret Service Advance Team. My Secret Service credentials are still valid." "OK, how do you suggest we approach President Clinton?" Marrissa inquired. "Well his daughter Chelsea is currently an intern at the Kennedy Space Center," Wesley began. "I can contact her and then I suggest that Chelsea and I go talk to her father." "I'll agree with that, but I'm coming as well," Marrissa said. "Respectfully, Captain," Ross began, "but you are our commanding officer and should not be going into risky situations." "Lieutenant, I don't think that visiting the President of the United States of America is a risky situation," Marrissa replied. "If you think so, I'd like to know why." Timothy Mann stood outside the Oval Office. His job was to guard the President. That had not been an easy job. Theoretically, everyone had to pass numerous guards to reach the President. Last spring had disproved that theory. Several time the First Daughter and her boyfriend had somehow visited without passing either. It was almost enough to make the head of the Presidential Detail wish that the FBI really had an X-Files division. But Wesley had been given full access and even given Secret Service credentials. Mann didn't like this. After all, Wesley had no background and claimed to be from the future. He had to be crazy. On the other hand, he did have some extraordinary talents, and Mann wasn't one to argue with the Commander and Chief. In his ear came the message, "First Daughter, Future Guy, and companion heading for Oval Office." They came into view around the corner. Chelsea was wearing a blue polo shirt with tan slacks. Wesley wore the traditional Secret Service attire of a black suit complete with sunglasses. Behind them was a blond girl in a red blouse and black slacks who couldn't be more than 15 years old. Mann knocked on the door and announced, "Chelsea, Wesley, and a friend to see you, sir." President Clinton was going though the latest intelligence reports on Iraq when his daughter and her friends arrived. Saddam Hussein was due to make his quarterly defiance of UN resolutions, and Clinton intended to head him off this year. If he would have just let the inspectors inspect everywhere back in 1997, Saddam probably wouldn't be still under the said resolutions, but who ever said dictators had to be sane. The President would have asked Chelsea to wait, but So Damn Insane didn't seem to be doing anything at the moment, and she had come all the way from Florida without the aid of traditional transportation. Plus Wesley was with her, and if he was with her, chances are it was important. "Send them in," Clinton ordered, his voice still a little horse from the previous night's speeches. At least he didn't have to answer any more questions about Whitewater. A special prosecutor with too much time on his hands was a real pain. As for a Congress set on taking him down any way they could, the thought still sent chiles down his spine. Thankfully, this current Congress seemed to be trying to avoid partisan politics. That was one lesson learned very quickly once they started to try him. His daughter entered in a most exuberant mood. He had to admit that his daughter was in love with Wesley, but he really didn't want her to grow up. Wesley came in behind her. Clinton liked Wesley, in fact he'd trust him with his daughter's life. Not that he intended to let Wesley know that. Last came a young girl who had an air of command around her, like he'd come to expect from his better Admirals and Generals. It wasn't a stare the pierced your soul, or a stiff ram-rod posture like he'd assumed that was a sign of a good commander when he began his first term as President. No, it was a comfortable posture and a confident expression, with a tint of fear at the new surroundings, but determined as well. "Chelsea, Wesley, what brings you here, and who is your young friend," the President asked, coming around his desk. "We've got another group of interfering time travelers, Dad" Chelsea explained. "And this is Wes's little sister, Marrissa Picard." "Then you must be following in your older brother's footsteps," Clinton assumed. "Actually, no," Marrissa said, a glint of amusement in her eyes. "I'm his commanding officer." "Really?" Clinton said in disbelief. "Mr. President, meet my little sister, Lieutenant Commander Marrissa Picard, acting Captain of the USS Stargazer, currently in orbit," Wesley said. "You command a starship," Clinton asked. "Technically, I'm Second Officer," Marrissa said. "However the Captain and First Officer hadn't arrived when we had to chase the Eagle back to prevent her from interfering with the past." "So there is a rogue starship up there whose crew is trying to interfere with history," Clinton summed up. "Close, I've captured the starship, but several members of her crew beamed down with equipment before I could stop them," Marrissa replied. "We think they are after the Athena." "Why would they want to harm the first manned mission to Mars?" Clinton asked. "As near as we can figure out, some technology or discovery was necessary for the some event they don't want to happen," Wesley stated. "For some reason, they don't like Star Fleet, so we can't find out more." "According to our analysts, if the Athena doesn't complete it's mission," Marrissa said, "The Federation will not be founded in the late twenty-first century. Personally, I don't want to find out what happens instead." "I will do what I can to help you," the President replied. "As I intend to watch the Athena's launch, an increase in Secret Service personnel would not be unusual. Since Mr. Mann has worked with you before, I'll have him sent to Florida, with orders to assist you. Chelsea, I assume you won't stay out of this." "Did I stay out of the Stanford incident?" Chelsea asked. "No." "That's your answer," Chelsea said. "Then I trust that you can keep my daughter out of trouble, Wesley?" the President said. "I'll try... but you know it's a hopeless cause, sir," Wesley said. "Wes, when we get back to the Stargazer, we are going to be having a long talk," Marrissa stated. Some times it didn't pay to be in command. Each of the three other members of Lyam's team seemed to have a different objective. They had all chosen names of Starship Captains as their aliases, figuring that they would be less likely to be spotted that way than if they used their real names. Lyam was now James T. Kirk. Boris was now Pavel Chekov. The remaining two were Jean-Luc Picard, who seemed to be willing to only to the most minor of changes to history and Christopher Pike, who right now was expounding on the situation they were in. "I'm sure they are on to us," Pike said. "They must know of our plans to destroy the Athena by now." "Relax, none of our crew know enough of our plans to case us problems," Picard remarked. "If we just minimize our appearances and strike when necessary, we should do fine." "That's exactly what we don't want to do," Pike said. "We have to strike enough times and at enough targets so time does change." "But only at the right targets," Lyam said. "The Athena is the right target." "It's not the only one, and if we consitrat on just it, they will stop us," Pike said. "What do you propose?" Lyam asked. "We hit as many of the Starship Captain ancestor's list as possible," Pike said. "We can't afford to go all over killing the whole list," Lyam said. "We have two targets that will be in the area tomorrow, get them and only them. Meanwhile, Boris, get our laser ready. It's time to hit the Endeavor." Chapter Six The room was not your typical briefing room. You don't normally hold briefings around a college student's kitchen table. However, they needed to include Agent Mann and Chelsea Clinton, so they couldn't hold it on the Stargazer. So they held it in the First Daughter's Kitchen, among dirty dishes (Chelsea was washing them as they ran the briefing) and the notes for a summer research project. Marrissa conducted the meeting, in a nice blue jeans and polo shirt, befitting her age. Wesley and Agent Mann were both in typical Secret Service attire. Chelsea wore a Stanford T- shirt with a pair of blue shorts. Seemingly out of place, was Lieutenant Lochard, who wore his uniform. "What does today look like?" Marrissa asked. "At eleven o'clock, we've got a tour scheduled for Prince William of Wales, and Princess Beatrice of York," Mann began. "I'll be conducting it," Chelsea said. "Doctor Grissom informed me of it yesterday." "Is it possible for me to tag along?" Marrissa asked. "Why?" Mann asked. "I have a personal stake in making sure he survives this mess," Marrissa said, cutting off Wesley and Ross, who seemed to be about to say something in protest. "And that is?" Mann inquired. "William is an ancestor of mine," Marrissa said. "If he dies, I will never be born." "Someone to keep Princess Beatrice entertained would be a good idea," Chelsea suggested. "I'll run it by the Space Center staff," Mann replied. "In the afternoon, Governor Gilmore of Virginia will be taking a tour along with Senators Robb and Warner, also of Virginia..." Chelsea and Marrissa met Prince William and Princess Beatrice at the front of the space center. The two royals had been traveling one of those bullet proof Rolls Royces that governments tended to prefer in the traditional black shade. The Prince had apparently just finished telling a joke to his cousin, who was trying to stop laughing as she climbed out of the car. Also greeting the Prince and Princess was the Chief of Operations and of course the ever present Secret Service Agent of Chelsea's (Today being none other than Wesley Crusher.) The Royals were accompanied by four agents of their own Special Air Service. "Welcome to NASA's Kennedy Space Center, your royal highnesses. I'm John Smith, director of operations here," a man said. "This is Chelsea Clinton, and Marrissa Picard, they'll be conducting your tour today." "Chelsea and I have met," William said. "I don't think she's met my cousin Beatrice, though." "It is a pleasure to meet you, your highness," Chelsea said. "I take it you have had a good time here in the United States." Beatrice nodded. "Bea..." William began. "I have, Miss Clinton," Princess Beatrice said. "Please call me Chelsea, and don't ever call Marrissa here Miss Picard," Chelsea said. "Her older brother tells me that people have been thrown over board for less." "What has Wesley been telling you?" Marrissa said. Before a reply could be made, the sound of automatic weapons fire broke out. The group dived for cover, with no less than two SAS agents landing on top of William. Wesley, meanwhile had the presence of mind to pull out his gun and return fire. Good hand eye condonation and perhaps a little time outside of time, resulted in two shots hitting the gunman, partially concealed behind a car outside of the gates, in each shoulder. Wesley and one of the SAS agents slowly approached the car outside the gates, once the shots ended. The lone gunmen was behind the dark red Buick, bleeding profusely from his two gunshot wounds. Wesley picked up the gun with a pen kept in his pocket, ordering the SAS Officer, "Get an ambulance." Once the man ran back to the Rolls Royce, to use its phone, Wesley brought out his modified scanner. One quick scan was all he needed. Then Wesley began what first aid he could do. He was a doctor's son after all. The ambulance quickly arrived, along with the local police. Wesley turned the man over to them, and walked back to Marrissa. "Future," was the verdict he informed. "Find out why," Marrissa replied, before the group was hustled into the building. Marrissa collapsed into the lazy-boy chair and Chelsea slumped on the loveseat, next to Wesley. They had just come back from their long day giving tours of NASA to all the politicians attending the launch. "So how was your day, Chelsea?" Wesley asked. "OK, especially when compared to poor William," Chelsea said. "Being shot at tends to ruin a day," Wesley said. "That was just the being of it, but I'm to tired to explain," Chelsea said. She picked up the remote. "I'll let the news tell it." The NBC News Theme played in Chelsea's apartment. Chelsea's Security Service Agent came in to standing in the doorway to the kitchen, where he could see both Chelsea and the television. "Tragedy in Ireland, Prince Charles assassinated less than an hour after his ascension. Attempted bombing in Florida, man found installing bomb on British Royal plane. Senator Warner of Virginia announces his candidacy for President. And tonight, an in depth report on the mission to Mars," Tom Brokaw's voice said to a series of clips. "NBC Nightly News with Tom Brokaw. Live from the Kennedy Space Center," the announcer said, as the graphics went by. Tom Brokaw appeared in his traditional grey suit. "Behind me you can see the Shuttle Endeavor, about to become part of the Athena Mission to Mars, which today had it's right rocket booster replaced. More on that later, but first, our lead story, the tragedies suffered today by the British Royal Family. At one minute to four, local time, Queen Elizabeth the Second of Great Britain and Northern Ireland died of a heart attack. She was seventy-three. This unexpected death was followed by an even more tragic event. Her son and heir, who intended to go by the title King Charles III, had just been informed and left the hospital that he had been touring in Northern Ireland. Just as he exited, he was shot by an unknown assassin. He was immediately rushed back into the hospital's emergency room where he expired.. He was fifty. A search was immediately begun by authorities and all fights from the island were grounded by both British and Irish authorities. Our Stone Phillips, has the story. Thank you Tom. Tragedy upon tragedy seems to be heaped upon the British Royal Family in the past couple of years. This morning brought a new double dose of it. The Queen died while taking her tea, of an apparent heart attack. Meanwhile her son, Prince Charles was touring the new children's wing of the Belfast Hospital. He was informed of his mother's death outside the cancer ward. Less than a half an hour later, King Charles III's exit from the Hospital was greeted with gunfire. He took two shots to the chest. The King was rushed back into the hospital were he died at seventeen minutes past five local time, some seven hours ago. His assassin escaped into the crowds, but both Ireland and Great Britain immediately closed down all flights and began inspecting all ships leaving port. When asked to explain the unprecedented moves by Irish and British authorities, the Irish President had the following statement. "Ireland may no longer be under the British Crown and in fact has had many difficulties with the British in the past, however, when it comes to killing or attacking the Royal Family, especially the King, we will do everything in our power to make sure anyone foolish enough to try will never get away with it. Ireland is committed to peace. It's time that everyone realize that it is time to move on. I had hoped that we were beyond such childish attacks, but I see some still cling to old hatreds." Just a half-an-hour ago a trio consisting of Catholic Priest, a former member of the British Royal Navy, and a housewife, delivered the assassin to a police station in Dublin. The assassin has been identified as Ian O'Toole, a known IRA member from Dublin. Irish officials immediately turned him over to British authorities. O'Toole had be release from prison as a result of the Peace Agreement. Prime Minister Tony Blair has indicated that O'Toole will be prosecuted to the maximum extent under law. Stone, what is the maximum penalty for murder in Great Britain? Tom, since it was the King who died, this is a capital offense. The British have never repealed the ancient laws concerning an attack on their monarchs. What is the public opinion about this attack? Britain tonight is a nation in shock. I don't think anyone has had the time to think yet. It was a one two punch to the British and the monarchy today, and they have yet to get up off the floor. Just a hour ago, Prince Andrew and Prince Henry entered the hospital where King Charles died to pick up his body for the trip back to London where he will be lain in state beside his mother the Queen. As they entered the hospital, by the same entrance as his father had been shot at, Prince Harry paused to place a single white Irish rose where the sidewalk had been nicked by one of the bullets fired at his father. Since then it's been joined by many more, as every passing person has seemingly stopped to leave their own white rose. Thank Stone, Stone Phillips, live from Belfast. We have to break for commercials. When we come back, more on the events surrounding the British Royal Family, and later, the manned mission to Mars. Welcome back, earlier we told you about the deaths of Queen Elizabeth II and her son King Charles III, but what about the new king? Charles's oldest son, William was touring NASA's Command and Control Center, here at Cape Canaveral when he was informed of his ascension. He had just escaped an attempt on his and his cousin, Princess Beatrice's life. The young King, who will be crowned as William the fifth, after consulting with Prime Minister Blair, ordered his plane to be readied to return him to London. However, a prudent inspection revealed that the plane had been rigged to explode. Members of the FBI and Secret Service are assisting British Special Air Service Officers in the investigation. They suspect renegade member of the IRA are responsible. However, King William has chosen to delay his return home until after the launch of the Endeavor. He will be addressing his subjects around the world at one in the afternoon eastern daylight time, after the Endeavor is launched. Yesterday, our Jane Pauley interviewed then Prince William for a feature that was to air on Dateline NBC tonight. In it, she asked what he thought of becoming King. Tonight, King William the Fifth, in his own words... Chelsea shut off the television. "That is a bad day," Wesley remarked. "Yes, but it could have been worse," Marrissa said. "The President has moved William and Beatrice to the safest place he could find. The aircraft carrier Enterprise is off the coast, as part of a naval honor guard, and it's a lot harder to take down someone on a ship than on shore. Now what motives did you find for this attack?" "We searched the records for descendants of William and Beatrice for any project and names of Athena," Wesley said. "We came up with five matches. Princess Athena, born 2053, died 2126, noted diplomat. Captain Henry Carvelle, a descendant of Beatrice's who as Captain of the Athena made the first Prime Directive breach. Athena Weapons Research Project, which had two descendants on it in 2224. Heather Athena Grenville, descendant of William, noted writer. Mary Athena Green, founder of Peace at any Price movement, 2335, descendent of William." "I think we can rule out the writer," Marrissa said. "People don't go back in time to stop writers." "Burning the books is bad enough," Chelsea remarked. Chapter Seven Marrissa returned to the Stargazer, hoping to get a good night's sleep, before the day of the launch. She hoped it was the Athena they were after, and the Royals were merely a distraction. But before she could prove that, she had to talk to some people. "Doctor Johnson, Admiral Scott, report to my office," she ordered. Scotty arrived first, but Doctor Johnson wasn't far behind. "What can we do for you, Marrissa?" Doctor Johnson asked. "Has that guy we brought up talked any?" Marrissa asked. "He's been real quiet," Johnson said. "Says nothing but complaints on my doctoring skill." "Oh?" Marrissa said, wondering. "He doesn't like the fact I'm keeping him immobilized until his shoulders heal," the Doctor replied. "Standard procedure when they've been shattered like that. What was Lieutenant Crusher firing?" "I'm not sure," Marrissa said, as she turned toward the Admiral. "So, Scotty, were you involved in today's emergency booster repair?" "Aye," Scotty said. "And why did I end up hearing about it on the Evening News first?" Marrissa asked. "You were unavailable at the time, and we had to act quick," Scotty said. "Our friends from the Eagle scored the area near the O-ring that failed during the Challenger disaster. If it hadn't been caught, the Endeavor would have been destroyed." "Good work," Marrissa said. "Did you finish work on Wesley's temporal displacement scanner?" "Aye, and a lovely piece of design it was," Scotty said. "Give a half dozen copies to Lieutenant Lochard, and have him and Agent Mann organize a search for our displaced persons," Marrissa ordered. "Now if you'll excuse me, I've got to get a good night's sleep, tomorrow is going to be a very busy day." Boris was an Engineer. He didn't know much about how to attack things and change history. He did know a lot about plastic explosives, missiles, and lasers though. That was why he had been brought into this conspiracy. He really didn't care about its success or failure. So he only reluctantly wished "James T. Kirk" and "Jean-Luc Picard" luck when they departed for their last attempt. Then he plopped down on the bed in front of the TV set and turned on the History Channel. They were having a neat series on the development of missile technology this week and he didn't want to miss tonight's installment. So it was with annoyance that he greeted the two men that knocked on the door. Both were dressed in black suits with red ties. Both wore dark sunglasses. They pulled out their wallets, opening them to reveal their badges. "Agents Mann and Lochard, United States Secret Service. Would you be Mister James T. Kirk, Mister Jean- Luc Picard, or Mister Pavel Chekov?" "I'm Chekov," Boris said, after the pause it took for him to remember the name he had been registered under. He noticed that Agent Lochard had just put a small device back in his pocket. "Would you happen to know where Misters Kirk and Picard are?" Agent Mann asked. "I believe they went fishing," Boris said. "That is why we came to Florida." "I sure you did," Agent Lochard replied. "Would you please come with us. We have some questions we'd like answered back at the office." To his credit, Boris made no attempt to resist, even when the transporter beamed him directly into the Stargazer's brig. Agents Lochard and Mann then searched his room before returning to their headquarters in Chelsea's apartment. Chapter Eight Lyam Sympton stood on the deck of the small boat. His companion in crime was at the helm. He took in a deep breath of the sea air and turned to look at the launch pad. He lined up the sights on the launcher and waited for the launch to begin. Three minutes to go. He looked back at his companion. The man was still wearing that ridiculous "My Hero, my Captain" t-shirt. Lyam thought that the shirt made him stand out instead of blend in, but James insisted on wearing his Garret t-shirt. Lyam was sure that the body attached to Garret's head wasn't hers, and really should someone against Starfleet wear or even own such a shirt. After all, Garret, no matter how noble her death had been, was one of those accursed Prime Directive breaking Captains of the Enterprise. Beyond James and the small craft was Lyam's real worry though. Apparently President Clinton had decided that an honor guard of ships should be off the shore when the Endeavor launched. The aircraft carrier Enterprise had been in off the coast for several days. She and her battle group could easily take down his attempt, if the cloaking device didn't work. Two minutes to go. Wesley Crusher stood on board the aircraft carrier Enterprise. The President had chosen to watch the launch from the ship, and Wesley and Chelsea had joined him. Wesley was also using a discrete scanner to try to detect the two unaccounted for ENE members. He had built the time traveler detector drawing on his own experience time traveling and working for Temporal Investigations. Scotty had helped him finial get it into a working model, but it had some limitations. The range was just under a mile, so it really couldn't be used from orbit. The device beeped. The scanner had detected two time travelers. He queried the Stargazer for a view of the area. One minute to go. Lyam made the final adjustments and stood back. In the distance, a Coast Guard Cutter turned and began bearing down on the ENE craft. James saw and pointed out the cutter. It would be too late. Forty-Five seconds until the missile was launched. Lyam cleared the forward deck and moved behind the splash shield. Thirty seconds. A girl in scuba gear climbed up the forward portside ladder, and two men similarly dressed came over the rear end. The ENE members turned to engage the two men. Meanwhile the girl pressed her communicator up against the launcher and said, "Now" Ten seconds, nine, eight, seven, six, five, four, three, two, one. The Endeavor launched from it's pad off in the distance. But the missile launcher was no more than a pile of ash. The ENE's attempt had failed. The space shuttle Endeavor rose on it's way to orbit and eventually, Mars. The girl pulled down the head covering on her gear, revealing her long blond hair. She pulled it out from under the suit and turned to the shocked and now handcuffed ENE members. "Lieutenant Commander Marrissa Picard of the Star Fleet Carrier USS Stargazer," she introduced herself. "You would be Misters Lyam Sympton and James Kirk?" They nodded. "On behalf of Temporal Investigations, I'm taking you into custody on charges of first degree temporal interference, attempted murder, and hijacking. The United States Coast Guard will transfer you to the local jail where we will take you to the Stargazer. You have a right to remain silent. Anything you say can and will be used against you. You have a right to counsel from your proper time. If you can not afford or find counsel, one will be provided for you..." Epilogue The Stargazer came out of warp at Deep Space Nine. Marrissa was glad that they had arrived. The last couple days of the journey had been rather trying. The paper work alone from the Temporal Incursion was overwhelming. As for those two Temporal Investigations Agents who came to review the mission, well, Marrissa had been strongly tempted to toss them into one impulse engine reactors and forget about them. If this was how commanding a Starship on a day to day basis went, Marrissa would need a lot more patience before she was ready for her own command. "Commander, Deep Space Nine has assigned us to dock at upper pylon two," Lavelle announced from Operations. "Captain Washington will meet us once we dock." "Very well," Marrissa said. "Kathy, slow to one eight, move us into position." Marrissa watched as the Stargazer slid into its space. "Cut forward motion. Port thrusters, one second blast. Open docking clamps." "Commander, we are docked at Deep Space Nine," Lavelle announced. "Captain Sisko sends his regards." "Acknowledged." Marrissa said, standing up and straightening her uniform like her father did. "Command Crew and honor guard to starboard docking port to pipe the Captain aboard." Appendix Crew of the Enterprise R.Adm. Jean-Luc Picard Commanding Officer Ltjg Clara Sutter 4th Assistant Chief Engineer Crew of the Stargazer LCD Marrissa Amber Picard Acting Captain Second Officer Fighter Commander Adm. Montgomery Scott Chief Engineer