Wanda

by carl smothers

  The video link ring pulled Harry from his thoughts. “Harry, mission plan meeting in the conference room in thirty minutes.”

  “Be right there, Marc.”

  When Harry entered the conference room Lars was telling Scott a joke. He sat down and listened. Sometimes Lars jokes were funny and others … oh, well.

  “Anyway, seems like this guy thought a tube of sexual arousal jelly was skin lotion and he rubbed it all over his hands.”

  “So what happened?” Scott asked.

  “He couldn’t bend his fingers for five hours!” Lars laughed loudly.

  Pepper, sitting next to Harry, rolled her eyes and shook her head. “As I’ve said before, you’re sick, Lars.” The men laughed even harder.

  Harry bit his lip and tried to keep a straight face. Scott and Ronnie just laughed with the rest of the guys.

  When the snickers dissipated, Harry entered in W234 and Wanda appeared in the back of the conference room.

  Marc started the meeting. “We’ve completed the robotic fly through tests, without incident, so it’s time for a manned flight through the wormhole. Team, we’re going to Alpha Centauri. If successful, we’ll write a new era in Earth’s history and open a door to the galaxy for the human race. Harry, would you like to say something?”

  “Yes, thank you. This has been a difficult and sometimes precarious endeavor. In spite of the obstacles, we’re finally going to the stars. Each one of you should be proud of your accomplishments. Secretary Robinette called last night. He said to tell everyone thanks for a job well done and good luck. Its ten days before launch, so let’s take a look at the mission plan and get ready for our trip.” Harry sat down and winked at Pepper.

  “We have three objectives for this mission,” Marc said. “First, we’ll transit through the wormhole to Proxima Centauri to launch a new deep space telescope and a communications satellite. Next, conduct a sensor survey of the planets ending with PC1, the innermost planet of the Proxima Centauri. The third and final task is to collect data on a newly discovered nebula, Beluse 321 using Outpost.”

  “Seems to me it’s an ambitious plan,” Lars remarked.

  “You’re right. It is,” Harry interjected. “However, it gives us the support of the International Astronomical Agency and the International Space Geophysics Agency. The ISGA wants us to survey the planets and collect as much geophysical information as possible within our time constraints. This will give us data on a triple star system that we’ve never had before. That won’t hurt when it comes time to address future support and funding for the project.”

  “Who’s on the flight team?” Pepper asked.

  “Captain John Starling will be the mission commander and Commander Terrence “Knuckles” Malone is the designated pilot. Harry and Tarnak are joining them as mission specialists,” Marc replied. “Dr. Ivan Podoski, from the Russian Astronomical and Physics Institute, designer of Outpost, is going to oversee the system preparations and activate the system. You’ve all met him. Tarnak is going along to assist in this task.”

  “What’s the launch date? “He asked.

  “We’ll initiate wormhole synthesis at 0900 on the thirtieth, lift off and enter the wormhole at 1000 hours. Wanda do you have anything to add?” Mark asked.”

  “Yes. The orbital geometries are going to be very critical. In addition, we need to choose the egress point carefully,” Wanda explained. “You don’t want to get caught in the plasma stream between the two main stars. It could cause great damage to the ship.”

  “I assure you we’ve been very careful to choose our egress point. We plan to emerge from the wormhole about 100,000 kilometers from the fifth planetary intercept point of Proxima Centauri to make sure that does not happen,” Marc said.

  He paused to take a sip of his coffee then continued. “After emergence, we’ll use PC5 to establish our working orbit. Dr. Podoski, would you please brief us on the orbital docking procedure and activation of Outpost?”

  Podoski was a husky, overweight Russian about six feet tall. Bald as a cue ball with friendly blue eyes, he sported a big nose and his trademark black Van Dyke beard. “Thanks, Marc,” he said, with a slight Russian accent.

  “Once our orbit around PC5 has been achieved, we’ll use the Pegasus to fly Outpost and Sentry to their orbital insertion points. We’ll set Outpost in its orbit first. Once we verify its operational status, then we will launch the communication satellite. Sentry will act as our relay station with Earth, so communications and control of Outpost can be effected through the wormhole.”

  “Doctor, why not communicate with Outpost directly?” one man asked.

  “The astrophysics community has requested we place Outpost in a space referenced orbit at the Lagrange point between the star and PC5. We plan to inject Sentry in a stationary polar orbit above the red dwarf star, where it will provide a stationary relay point to transmit and receive information, data and control signals for Outpost from Earth. Once the system’s in orbit, the MCC will reactivate the wormhole and command Outpost, through Sentry, to confirm the system’s operational readiness. With wormhole technology, we can downlink photographic and other sensor information to Earth in almost real-time. Astronomical research will be faster and more complete than ever before. Harry.”

  “After Outpost and Sentry are securely in orbit, and their operation confirmed, we’ll transit out about 250,000 kilometers from PC5 and use Outpost to collect data on Beluse 321. Astronomers think this young nebula has a star in the process of birthing a new solar system similar to our own.”

  “Will that complete the mission?” one engineer asked.

  “No. The International Space Geophysics Agency has asked us to perform a survey of PC1 to assess the geophysical issues associated with a planet orbiting close to a red dwarf star system. Since the gravitational well associated with the triple star system is complex and somewhat dynamic, this is a risky endeavor, and one that will require precise navigation and control. There is little margin for error. That will be our final task before wormhole reactivation. We’ll be on site for twenty-five Earth days, and then we’ll go home.”

  “What about the shielding for Orion?” Lars asked. “It seems critical to me. The cosmic radiation around Alpha Centauri has been reported to be very high.”

  “Michelle Duvey and her team are almost finished,” Marc replied. “Her new active nano technology shielding should keep the crew safe. It provides several orders of magnitude better protection against x-ray and gamma radiation and ionized particles. In addition, we plan to store the water we need between the inner and outer hulls of the starship. Between the Hydrogen atoms in the water, and the nano shielding, the crew should be safe from any type of radiation or particles.

  “She deserves a pat on the back,” Harry said.

  “Just one final thing,” Marc said. “The EVA team will have to undergo a DNA genetic modification procedure three days before launch.”

  Borski then asked, “What in the hell is that all about? I’m not sure I want anyone modifying my DNA structure. I think nature has done a fine job engineering it. Please explain.”

  It’s a simple procedure to enhance the body’s cellular structure to be able to withstand the detrimental effects of cosmic radiation on short term EVA missions. You spend two boring hours in a med tank. You won’t even be aware we’re doing anything. After that, we check you a couple of times prior to launch.”

  “You sure it’s safe?” Borski asked.

  “Yes, it’s been tested extensively.”

  Even though he hadn’t trained for it, Harry intended to be a member of the Outpost EVA team. When Marc finished, Harry raised his hand.

  “Yes, Harry,”

  “Marc, I’d like to undergo that procedure.”

  “Why?”

  “If a member of the team can’t support the EVA, I could be a backup — just in case.

  Anthoni looked at the Chief Medical Officer who nodded yes. “Okay, Harry. Call the medical office and make an appoin
tment.”

  I’m not sure how I’m going to pull it off, but I plan to be a member of that EVA team, he thought.

  Harry noticed Marc seemed distraught and decided to go and talk to him after the meeting. When he got to his door, Marc was taking a drink a scotch — something quite unusual for him. Harry liked to drink, in fact a lot, but never at work.

  “Hey, Marc, can I come in? I want to talk to you.”

  Marc took another swig, propped his head on his hand and then replied, “Sure, come on in.” He looked like someone had stolen his favorite dog.

  “You seem depressed. What’s wrong?”

  Marc looked down, rubbed his face, paused a bit, took another drink and then looked at Harry. “Mary left me and filed for divorce. It’s tearing my guts out. I’ve never been so upset in my life. I don’t know what I’m going to do.” He leaned back in his chair, took another drink and let the bottle slam down on the desk.

  “Marc, what happened? You two seemed to have a great marriage.”

  Marc’s face and eyes reflected his pain. He looked like a beaten, worn-out man. “It’s the job. For the last several years, I’ve been here more than home, and Mary’s fed up. When I’m home, she says my mind’s at work. She said she feels like a science widow. I tried to talk to her, but it didn’t do any good. She blew up last weekend, packed up the kids and moved in with her mom. I can’t give up my job, and I don’t want to lose her. I feel like I’m about to have a nervous breakdown. I love my family so much; I can’t bear to be without them.” Marc hung his head and sobbed.

  Harry was devastated. He walked over and patted Marc on the shoulder. “I’m so sorry, Marc. I know this project has been hell. The last thing I want is it to cause family problems. It sure broke up my relationship with my friend Jamie. Let me know if you need to talk to someone. I’ve never been married, but I am a good listener. I’m so sorry, my friend.”

  Marc took a deep breath and pulled himself together. “Sorry for the emotional outbreak. Thanks, Harry; it’s nice to have a sympathetic ear. I’ll figure it out.”

  “If I can help in any way please let me know.” Harry patted Marc on the shoulder again and then left to go to his office. He was concerned, but not sure how he could help. Breaking it off with a girlfriend did not compare to the emotional impact of losing a spouse.

  Chapter 30

  STL Facility

  New Mexico

  As flight time grew near, Harry familiarized himself with the ship’s science console and operation of the astronomical laboratory. A week prior to launch, Captain John Starling arrived from the International Space Agency. Harry noticed him immediately as he walked on the bridge.

  He wasn’t at all, what Harry expected. He had envisioned a muscular, rugged looking man with a square jaw. To the contrary, Captain Starling was tall and slender, with short black hair. He had a Roman nose, neatly trimmed moustache, black sparkling eyes and a pleasant face. His contributions to the ISA were borne out by the multitude of service ribbons on his dress uniform, crowned by the coveted Space Command Astronaut Wings.

  He looks like a starship commander, Harry thought.

  Starling gazed around the bridge, then walked over and introduced himself to Harry.

  “Hello, Dr. Stevenson, I’m Captain John Starling. I’ve heard a lot of good things about you and this project. It is my pleasure to meet you. I understand you will be our Science Officer on this trip.”

  “Yes, sir,” Harry replied smiling.

  “I’m delighted you’ll be going with us,” the captain said in a pleasant baritone voice.

  “Thank you, Captain. By the way, call me Harry. Everyone does. We’re very pleased to have obtained your services. It was not easy. I had to pull some high-level strings to get you. I hope it’s to your liking.”

  “I can’t think of any assignment I would rather have. How’s your familiarity with the science console coming?”

  “It’s been a learning process, but I think I’ve got it. I’ve also spent a lot of time in the astronomical laboratory. It’s a first class facility.”

  “That it is. Just wait until you see it in action. I need to talk to you about a concern I have.”

  “Sure, how can I help you?”

  The captain dropped his gaze for a moment to collect his thoughts, and then looked Harry straight in the eyes. “I’ve thought about this survey of PC1. I must say, it is quite risky … particularly in that star system. I’d like to have some insurance, in case things go sour on us.”

  “What do you need?” Harry asked, his curiosity peaking. Sour?

  “I’d like a navigational tool that provides a three dimensional color coded geometrical model of the entire Alpha Centauri star system, including PC1 and PC5. Of particular importance is a feature that shows the orbital corridor around PC1. The orbital trajectory around PC1 will take us precariously close to the star. An associated graphic, or box, that shows our real-time position within the three dimensional corridor looking out in the direction of travel would be very helpful. The topography of the composite gravitational field of the three stars could be somewhat variable, so I’d like that factored in and displayed.”

  “What other features do you need?”

  “I want the model to be presented on the star map, with the box shown in a position that makes it easy to monitor our position within the corridor at all times. The left side of the spatial orientation box should be color coded in red and the right side in green. Port and starboard, you know, with yellow defining the top and bottom of the corridors. If possible, I’d also like to have the box displayed on the navigator and pilot’s displays with the associated numerical data of position, delta position to each leg of the box, speed, gravitational numerics and altitude. Can you do this?”

  “That’s easy enough. We have an excellent understanding of the orbital mechanics of that star system and its gravitational and magnetic fields, so we shouldn’t have any problem. I’ll ask Tarnak and Lars Johanson to assist me. They have extensive orbital modeling and graphical expertise. I’ll also set it up to run on the holographic and 3D displays in the astro lab.”

  “Thank you. We don’t want to accidentally wander out of the AC1 orbital corridor. By the way, I’ve asked Major Tobey, our weapons officer, to install antimatter torpedoes.”

  “I hadn’t considered the need for weapons.”

  “On previous missions, I had to use weapons against rogue asteroids to save my ship. Have you considered the implications of an asteroid or meteor getting inside the wormhole? ”

  “I understand,” Harry said.

  “Well, please excuse me. I have many things to do. It was nice to have finally met you.” The captain smiled then left to begin his pre-flight checkouts.

  The night before departure, Harry took Pepper to dinner in Albuquerque. Later, they arrived at her quarters, went inside and sat on the sofa.

  “Stereo, please activate file five, tracks one to fifteen,” Pepper ordered. She then gave Harry a concerned look.

  “Harry. I love you very much. I don’t mind saying, I’m worried about you going on this trip. That traitor’s still on the loose. Who knows what he might try next. If he sabotages the wormhole, all of you could be killed.”

  This mole thing frustrated Harry, too. They had done everything they could think of to uncover him, but he always seemed one-step ahead. He thought about what she said, then met her gaze. “We’ve done about all we can to catch this guy. However, we have to go on with our work. I’m not going to let this guy dictate what we do. I can’t shut the project down. I’m working with Wanda on a new technique that might help us catch him.”

  Harry paused to consider what he wanted to say to Pepper. He wanted the words to be just right. He looked down shyly, and then slowly met her gaze.

  “Pepper, I love you with all my heart. I want you to be in my life forever. Will you marry me?”

  He wasn’t at all sure what her response would be. He was pensive, hoping she would accept his propo
sal.

  Pepper wrapped her arms around him. “Oh, yes, Harry. Yes, I will marry you. I’m so thrilled and happy you finally asked. I love you so much, my darling.”

  He kissed her slowly and tenderly. For the first time in his life, he felt emotionally complete. He took her left hand. After kissing it, he removed a diamond ring from his pocket and slipped it on her finger.

  A tear ran down her cheek. “I’ve never been so happy. I’ve wanted this for such a long time. I can’t wait to tell Michelle? Does Wanda know?”

  “I’ll tell Wanda when I get back to my quarters. She talks to our mom every day, so I’m sure she’ll tell her before noon tomorrow.”

  “Do you think your folks will approve of me?” Pepper asked.

  “Honey, my mom and dad are going to absolutely adore you. You’ll like Mom. She’s such a neat woman, and Dad’s a great guy. I honestly have the same worry about your folks.”

  “I told my mother some time ago I was in love with you. She knows all about you.” Pepper giggled. She kissed him again and gazed lovingly at her new ring. “Are you going to stay with me tonight?”

  Harry smiled. He took her into his arms and they shared a long and passionate kiss. His desire for Pepper raged. She wrapped her arms around him and they fell back on the sofa kissing and embracing. Harry saw the two large mounds in her blouse heaving up and down with each breath. When he could stand it no longer, he unbuttoned her blouse, and discovered, much to his delight, she wore no bra, exposing her voluptuous breasts. He felt their softness and kissed them lovingly as she rubbed his back, pulling him tighter.

  The next morning, after they made love for the second time, she kissed him. “I really enjoyed last night. I love you so much. I can’t wait for our wedding. Maybe Ronnie and Michelle will want to do a double. What do you think?”