The Chronicles of the Samuel Hain First Series

8/3/2019 The Chronicles of the Samuel Hain First Series

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The Chronicles of the

1stSeries

2012 Benjamin F. Kaye

UDASamuel Hain


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The Chronicles of the Samuel Hain

1stSeries

Contents

1. Kuiper Belt Card Trick 22.Youre Never Too Little 83.Valhalla The City That Couldnt Be Built 144. Shadows of The Past 215. New Detroit City of the Future 316. Faith The Final Frontier 387. Dark Matter 458. The Edge of The Playpen 53


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Kuiper Belt Card Trick

Ring around the rosie

They were cute enough three little girls holding hands and dancing in a circle. Their mother

quickly pulled them back into line, obviously annoyed at their childish fun. I envied them; growing up

my mind wasnt allowed to stray beyond my math and science courses. I tucked the New Oxford Times

back into my satchel and held my breath. Would we make it? The line slowly inched forward.

Passes please. Her voice caught me by surprise. Funny, I always get hypnotized by standing in

line.

Here you go miss. I handed her my moon pass. The hologram display readJuly 9 2370 /

7:03 AM.

Lets see yes we do have room for you! Welcome to Star Phoenix Flight 289. Hope you have

a good journey. I really do believe her smile was genuine. It was good to know that there was some

enthusiasm left on this planet.

Thank you.

Happy Independence Day.

Thank you. Happy Independence Day

Nara. She held out her hand.

Happy Independence Day Nara.

The diamond shaped shuttle hovered over the platform for a moment then made a slow left

turn. The grand old skyline of New Oxford spun before me. We sat there for just a moment more,facing the Pacific Ocean. We started to climb, slowly at first, then more rapidly. I looked back at my

home and remembered those famous words of my grandfather: history is a foundation of hope and

hope should reflect a noble and prudent history.

First time to the moon? Nara was sitting across from me, looking at me with big blue eyes.

Yes.


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The bars are a lot more expensive there. I hope you brought your wallet.

Im really not much of an imbiber. Would I get a chance to read the Times? I wasnt sure I

could fill all 4 hours of commuting with conversation then again, I never really tried.

As I was walking down the exit tunnel I had an exact map of Camelot in my head. Nara had

provided me with every detail, down to the exact location of the gene beggars. The neon lights that

formed the ribs of the corridor slowly pulsated.

Sir, excuse me sir? An old man with translucent blue glass bubbles on his eyes hobbled up to

me.

Im sorry I really am late for an important meeting.

Please sir I have an allergy to salt quite deadly! You could have just the right gene I need.

All I need is a small sample of blood just one droptwo at most!

Im sorry sir, I must be off.

Please, please! Every day breakfast is like Russian roulette I never know if the next bite will

be my last! His voice trailed off as he spotted the next disembarking passenger. Excuse me, Maam

The plasma displays on the walls guided me to my long anticipated destination: The United

Districts of America Samuel Hain. Although Camelot had a lot to offer (even more than Shangri-La and

Utopia) I wasnt interested. I only glanced at the history of this first lunar city as it flashed on the

screens. It was all glamour, glitz, hype, and rubbish. When I saw the newscast on the construction of

Valhalla, I wondered how many cities could actually fit on our poor little moon. It didnt matter to me

anyways, so I focused on the job ahead. I got onto the escalator and slowly descended.

I wasnt prepared for what I saw next. The UDA Samuel Hain was 2 miles long and 4 stories

high. The main body of the ship was an exact replica of a 21st

Century nuclear submarine. Attached to

the body were 6 graceful fins that arched forward 3 on the left and 3 on the right. The ship itself was

black.

Quite a beauty, isnt she? There was a tall man with black hair standing on the observation

deck. He was all alone and I felt as if I was intruding. By his military uniform and his bearing, I could tell

he was a high ranking officer.

Yes sir.

Weve come a long way from the old Explorer. No more 15 week journeys to Mars. At top

speed, shell get us there in 20 days.

Yes sir.

An opportunity of a lifetime. This is how you want to see the solar system.


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Yes sir. Excuse me sir, but I cant keep the captain waiting.

By all means then. Good day cadet.

Good day sir.

I walked down the hall and briskly stepped into the boarding room. I was the only one there

what a joy to be early. The chairs were surprisingly comfortable and the room was pleasantly lit. This

wasnt the description of the military that my father had given me. I lowered the seat and reached into

my satchel for the Times, but thought better of it. When the captain came in, I didnt want to seem

distracted or disrespectful.

I didnt expect someone who is interested in traveling to be so content to sit. It was the

gentleman from the observation deck. He was the captain.

Sir! I quickly rose to my feet.

Orientation isnt for another 2 hours. Lets have lunch first.

Yes sir. A cadet having lunch with the captain. This really wasnt the military my father and

grandfather warned me about.

The Stargazer was a cozy little restaurant on the 1st deck of the ship, at the very tip of the vessel.

Most of the room, including the floor, was nothing more than glass, giving patrons an astounding view

of where they were going. Captain Isaiah Montrose ate at a leisurely pace, enjoying the food and the

stars beyond.

This ship not only has a biology lab, materials lab, and robotics lab, it even has a physics lab.

They built a small particle accelerator right into the hull.

Very impressive sir.

Besides this one, theres another restaurant on the 4th

deck, at the back of the ship.

Is it similar to this one sir?

Yes, although the Star Drifters menu isnt quite as good as the Stargazers. After a well cooked

meal with your comrades, you can even enjoy a play at the theater.

I didnt expect this from the military sir.

Neither did I.


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The orientation went as expected, which made me happy. I hurried to the 2nd

deck observation

lounge with the other cadets. It was coming and it was coming soon. We stood there in the stillness

no one spoke a single word.

This is Camelot lunar control Samuel Hain, final checks have been completed. You are clear

to launch.

Acknowledged Camelot. Retracting boarding tunnels. There was a slight ringing and yellow

lights flashed around us. We could see the boarding tunnels slowly collapsing towards the ship. The

ringing stopped as did the lights. We were expecting a rumble or tremor, but all was still. Initiating

engine thrust. The ship rose from the surface ever so slowly. Advancing 20 km/h. Was I really

doing this? Was I really heading for the stars? Thrust 90 km/h190 km/h.300 km/h.

Now this is what I call freedom.

Nara?

Last day with Phoenix first day as an explorer.

Initiating fission engines 1, 2, and 3. There was a bright flash of light from behind the fins

(much like the flash from an old 20th

Century camera). The back of the fins glowed and shimmered we

were travelling at 500,000 km/h.

And why are you here? Naras smile reflected her passion.

To serve The United Districts of America. I turned back to the stars. I was expecting some

reply from her, but I heard nothing.

Who have we got here? I was greeted by a grinning cadet with a slight accent. He shook my

hand and escorted me into the cartography room. Welcome to my world or should I say my space.

Im Strontium Jones graduate New Moscow University, Masters in Astro-Cartography.

Pleased to meet you. Im Garin Halverson.

If you dont mind working with a Senegal National such as myself, well get along fine. If youve

got a problem with African Nationalswell get along fine after about 15 minutes. He laughed and

slapped my back. I could see that we would spend a lot of interesting hours together in this room. But I

didnt know how unusual things would get until late one Friday night.

It was slow and I was reviewing the security protocol and training schedule for Falcon Point

the UDA base on the outskirts of Tokyo-Mars. I took a break and reached for the Times. Nothing piqued

my interest, so I was about to move on to advanced tactical training when I was interrupted.

Let me show you something Straight. Strontium waved me over. Over the past few days, my

nickname Straight and Narrow had shortened to just Straight. Although it was outside the


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boundaries of cadet parlance, maybe that wasnt a bad thing. I know my grandfather would have gotten

a chuckle out of it.

Is this duty related? Im not sure if I cared at this late hour, but I thought at least one of us

should be keeping the UDAs priorities on top.

What do you think the next card will be?

Were not supposed to be playing cards or trickson duty.

Youll love this trick. Itll open your eyes. He put his finger on the deck of cards before him.

Take a look at Watcher 238 and just be a little patient.

OK. Ill play along. I only have 20 minutes left till I get off shift. I switched the screen to

Watcher 238 a satellite on the edge of the Kuiper Asteroid Belt. One minute passed, then two.

Stop! Strontiums command cut through the air. I froze the camera. Zoom in. Scan for

Lithium. Yesright there.

I dont see anything. The 3D image was pretty boring. I turned it around and was taken

aback. Wait is the camera working properly? The scanner must be off. Ill run a diagnostic. I

couldnt believe my eyes.

Check the log. I just ran one 10 minutes ago. Jefferson ran one an hour ago.

Everything is working properly. You know, if you monkey around with the systems like this-

Hey! You think Im stupid? Theres no way to tamper with the network or this ship without

getting caught. What youre seeing is the truth.

He was right. Not even 10th generation computer hackers could tamper with The Watchers or

the Samuel Hain. I just had such a hard time believing what I saw: on the face of the asteroid was an

image of the Lithium, which looked exactly like a king of diamonds.

And herewe have, Strontium turned over the top card, a king of diamonds.

I have to admit, that is the most unusual asteroid I have ever seen.

Just wait another two minutes. Youll see how magical Kuipers belt really is.

Two minutes passed; I scanned the next asteroid for Lithium. The image looked like an ace of

clubs. I started to do an advanced diagnostic.

Let medraw this time. I snatched the deck from him.

Be my guest. He smiled. Well, are you waiting for an invitation from Captain Montrose?

Next card, I held my breath, ace of clubs.


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We spent the next hour between the asteroids and the deck: queen of spades in the belt, queen

of spades next card up; 2 of clubs in the belt, 2 of clubs next card up; 8 of hearts in the belt, 8 of hearts

next card up. The Kuiper belt accurately predicted each draw.

Welcome to outer space. He quietly chuckled, savoring this victory of the unknown over the

known.

Well, if you really wanted to test your theory, you would use something else, such as a Tarot

deck.

Two days later, we were again working late in the Cartography room. I was busy going over the

newest military training transmittals. Strontium had finished his shift and was turning cards over

again. These seemed a bit bigger though. I caught a glimpse of one and they definitely were not

standard playing cards.

Hmmm. he looked at the hologram. For some reason, he didnt turn the image around and

show me. Wasnt he interested in gloating? The Magician. He turned the card over and smiled.

Another perfect correlation. The Lovers nice. The look on his face told me that, yet again, Kuipers

belt was right. When the next asteroid came up, Strontium quickly turned off the screen, took up the

cards, and left the room.

Hey, what did you see? I grabbed him by the arm.

Nothin Nothin Nothin! He practically ran down the hall.

Bfk


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Youre Never Too Little

Trick or treat! Little voices floated up and down the tunnels of Tokyo Mars. Little ghosts and

goblins scurried past me with bags full of candy. The subterranean causeways snaked in and out of the

rocks and over large chasms. They were bathed in alternating bands of yellow, green, and blue lights.

The metal beams overhead and the plastic walls made the environment seem Spartan, yet clean and

crisp. The metal grates under our feet clanked with every step. The doors of the residential quarters

were set back into the stone. Most of them were crafted from gray plastic; a few had wood trim. In the

distance, the fusion towers glowed like miniature suns.

Did you ever go trick or treating Garin? Nara looked at me with those big blue eyes.

No. I was too busy with my studies. I didnt mean for my reply to be curt, but there was

simply nothing else to say.

Did you ever tell ghost stories?

No.

Garindid you have a childhood?

Yes an atypical one.

Do you ever wish you could go back and have a little more fun?

No. I am focused on today. Today we are to pick up supplies for the robotics lab. My reply

was sufficient to end further queries from my comrade. The rest of the journey was silent.

The Mars Advanced Research Institute was very big. It was in the middle of the largest chasm

and was sitting atop its own fusion tower. The glass doors had fancy brass handles. The institutes logo

was etched into a large marble disc that occupied most of the lobby floor:


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M A R I

Were here to see Dr. Orion Harbinger. I announced as I stepped up to a black welcome

screen. The screen came on and lit up in white. The MARI logo slowly appeared on the screen

accompanied by a short burst of Beethovens Overture Fidelio Opus 72b. The logo was replaced by a

spinning earth. On the left side of the screen was a declassified map of MARI; on the right side was a

map of Tokyo Mars.

One moment please. An electronic voice replied. Dr. Harbinger is in the South East Robotics

Lab, Level 8. I will let him know that you would like to see him.

What are you doing? I didnt like distractions while on duty.

Ive always wanted to play miniature golf on Mars. They have courses which will absolutely

blow your mind! Nara was tapping the interactive map and humming a little tune.

Mr. Halverson, Ms. Arteau. I hope your journey from Earth was pleasant. It seemed that Dr.

Harbinger had appeared out of nowhere. Nara jumped back.

It was; thank you Dr. Harbinger.

Right this way. The supplies you need have been prepared and are ready to be transported.

The robotics lab was encased in white plastic. Several humanoid figures composed of white

plastic walked to and fro, performing tasks. They had no faces and no eyes or ears, but in every other

respect had the exact dimensions of an average male. The lab itself was bathed in a red glow. A

circular metal shaft in the center of the lab revealed an automated assembly line where new robots

were being made. As we walked into the lab, a long plastic arm reached into the shaft and pulled out a

new robot.

Do they have names? Nara walked right up to the closest robot and studied it intently. She

put her hand on its face.

They have 18 digit serial numbers. There are thousands of robots all over Mars; we dont havetime to give them names.

Can I give this one a name? Nara held its hand. The robot softly curled its fingers around

hers.

Are these the supplies? I walked up to three boxes.


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Yes. I hope Ms. Uranium Donaldson will enjoy them. Dr. Harbinger smiled as he opened one

of the boxes. Inside were several glass balls half filled with a blue fluid; a black pyramid floated in the

center of the spheres.

The lights flickered ever so briefly then they went out. The emergency lights came on and the

message: fusion reaction out of sequence flashed on the glass doors of the lab.

Hmmm.this is something we must attend to. Dr. Harbinger calmly noted. He quickly

accessed the administrators panel for the colony. Something had flown into the particle stream of the

fusion tower. The diagram of the tower was blinking in red. Mr. Halverson, could you- why you already

have. Excellent work! He slapped me on the back.

I had switched the display to show the subatomic output of the reactor. There was a geyser of

electrons shooting from the top. I re-adjusted the top and middle particle accelerators to compensate

for the imbalance.

That should hold for now Dr. Harbinger. If you would like, I could request that the Samuel Hainsend an engineering team to check for any damage.

Why you really know your way around a fusion reactor! Dr. Harbinger was looking at me like a

long lost brother. If I have your captains permission, I would like you to accompany me to the reactor.

They really are a thing of beauty close up.

The descending spiral stairs made Nara claustrophobic, so I allowed her to stay in the robotics

lab. She could spend the time taking orders for the Samuel Hains other labs. When they realized that

we might not be back on Mars for another few weeks, perhaps they would reconsider the offer MARIhad so generously extended.

The metal repair deck stretched out into the gloom. Ahead, the faintly glowing aura of the off-

line reactor slowly pulsated. It made a rhythmic humming sound that seemed to penetrate everything

around us. It was between the throbs of low noise that I heard the footsteps.

Holy !@#$@!! Gordon!

Not so loud! The louder you scream the brighter your eyeballs glow. Wow.oh my

@#$%%#@!

I dont need the glider to fly.

I raced to the voices. Two teenagers, walking slowly in circles near the edge of the platform,

swung their arms in huge circles. From time to time they would shake their heads. Nearby was a hang

glider.

One of them must have flown right into the reactor core. Dr. Harbinger quickly noted.


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One of the two teens grabbed the glider. He was about to jump off when I caught the glider

from behind. Unfortunately, he lost his balance and we both went over the edge.

Careful! Dr. Harbinger caught me by the ankle. He was amazingly fast.

As the police led the two youths into custody, Dr. Harbinger shook his head. He looked

genuinely saddened. I cautiously peered over the edge of the repair deck. Not even 6 months into my

new assignment and I was almost killed. Now this was starting to sound like the military my father had

warned me about.

Microbe-Sniffers. Dr. Harbinger sighed.

Im sorry. Ive never heard of the term.

There are microbes on Mars, just outside the colony. Young adults mix them with saline

solution and squirt them into their noses. The microbes go straight to the brain where they wreck havoc

for 8 to 10 hours before dying. Weve all been dreading something like this. It will certainly complicate

and intensify the debate.

Im really surprised. I never realized this kind of thing still persisted.

Even with all our advanced technology and bright ideas, some things still have no quick fix.

Mankind would like to believe that social ills will simply be engineered away, but I dont think the

solutions are that easy.

Cadet Halverson. Are you OK? Captain Montroses voice crackled over my ear phone. A

message from the captain? Things were going to get complicated indeed.

Yes sir. I am OK and ready to report for my next duty.

Good. Your commanding officer will give you your next assignment in 3 hours.

Three hours that was interesting. The schedule of the Samuel Hain ran like clockwork. Every

duty for the day was listed on your personal calendar before you even got up. This accident had

changed things.

Three hours later Nara and I were back in the robotics lab with Dr. Harbinger. We were

monitoring the progress of 445-454998764323-450 or white boy as Nara liked to call him. He wasrunning over the red landscape at 50 km/h, effortlessly jumping over large rocks as they appeared in his

path. He slowed down as he came closer to his destination, which was nothing more than a shallow

pit, only 2 inches deep.

When the robot got there, he switched on his scanners. The microbes could be seen on the

display in front of us, swimming this way and that. Dr. Harbinger frowned and ran a diagnostic on the


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robot. He then switched the parameters of the scan to infra-red light. He moved on to ultra-violet

scans, then to x-ray scans, then to micro-wave scans. Still, he was puzzled.

So, what do you make of that? He asked me. He pointed to a circle barren of microbial life.

Whenever a microbe would come near the edge of the circle, it would quickly turn away.

An intriguing mystery. Nara smiled.

I cannot say what is going on there at the moment. I reluctantly confessed.

Time for an expedition. Dr. Harbinger walked out of the lab. We quickly followed.

Dr. Harbinger, this really is outside of protocol. I felt like I was being too strict. However, I felt

I should at least bring up the issue. I put my helmet on.

Garin think of this as an adventure instead of a mission. Nara smiled. She playfully rappedon my helmet and then put hers on.

In this instance, I agree with Ms. Arteau. Besides, Madame Diaz was a member of the police

force.

Correct; but she retired more than 2 years ago and there is no memorandum of protocol

between the military and the colony police force. I pointed out.

That is just a matter of time. Charlotte Diaz stepped into the decompression chamber. I am

working on the memorandum and will submit it next month. Now cmon cadet lets go do something

unofficial!

When we got there, I still had my doubts. The rumors surrounding Ms. Diaz hadnt gone away;

her methods had definitely made her an outsider on Mars. Yet even I couldnt argue with some of her

unexplained victories. She placed a small plastic chamber on the location of interest. She reached in

with one glove and then reached in with the other. She pulled one of the gloves off.

Ms. Diaz, I recommend that you put your glove back on. I was alarmed.

Its quite alright. Dr. Harbinger assured me.

Well, this is not like doing a walkthrough of an active house, but I might be able to get

something. She gently laid her fingertips on the Martian soil.

What is she doing? I wanted to know. But then again, did I really?

Shes trying to pick up a presence. Dr. Harbinger kneeled down beside her.

There is something here. Ms. Diaz muttered quietly. Thats why theyre so afraid.


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Microbes afraid? Nara knelt down on the other side of her.

There are many presences here. But they cant cross over to the other side. She continued to

mumble.

The other side of what? Perhaps there was some sort of organic barrier that the scans hadnt

picked up, I reasoned.

You were right professor. Yes, the circle is a graveyard; and yes its haunted. Ms. Diaz put her

glove back on.

Haunted? By what? Nara took a closer look.

Microbial ghosts. The professor replied.

There is no evidence for that Dr. Harbinger. I politely argued.

Welcome to the frontier between science and superstition, Mr. Halverson. You might want towatch your step or you might become trapped on one side or the other. He smiled.

Bfk


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Valhalla The City That Couldnt Be Built

That old black magic has me in its spell. Garins fingers moved deftly along the keys. He

could really play; it was like that old piano was his best friend. He was smiling as his old college buddies

crowded around him. I just couldnt figure him out. He was like a book in a foreign language. But there

he was, comfortable in his own tongue, in a beat up old bar on the moon.

I left the Comet Crasher Lounge and walked to the grand observation hall on the east side of

Utopia. The marble statues of Greek gods and goddesses blended effortlessly with the waterfalls and

fragrant plants. The soft white lights in the floor provided a warm, inviting glow.

Ahhhthe main shopping plaza, now I was in for a treat. People from all over mingled and

bumped into one another. The chatter and complex, diverse dialogue was so wonderful it made my skin

tingle. I could watch the scene for days on end, but my curiosity led me on. Perhaps when we came

back this way I would spend more time bathing in this bubbling cauldron of personality and emotion.

When I reached the observation hall, there was a small crowd there. Beyond the glass, cranes,

crews, and ambition were busily giving birth to Valhalla, the fourth lunar city. Without warning, Kepler

hissed and squirmed in my arms. He growled and stretched his black feathered wings.

Awww..whats troubling my little black kitty? I gently stroked the side of his face. He lookedup at me and softly meowed. His mysterious green eyes peered deep into my soul. He turned back to

the scene outside his body tensed for a moment; then he climbed up on my back and buried his face in

my hair.

I pressed my hand to the window. A drop of water splashed against the outside of the glass

right above it. After a few seconds another drop hit, then another. Soon water was trickling down the

glass. Everyone present was spellbound, but I raced out of the hall.

Sorry baby adventure calls! I kissed Kepler on the head and put him in his playpen.

I quickly put my uniform on and headed to the operations room of the Samuel Hain. There were

eight large computing cubes in the room; two personnel sat facing each side of every cube. Captain

Montrose was standing in the center, looking down at the display of Valhalla that hovered over the main

display grid. Garin showed up a mere second later, but he still looked embarrassed; I guess being the

second one to report was a failure to him.

This is somethin bad. Strontium whispered as he took his place to my left.


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The Lunar Zoning Commission is requesting our assistance. Captain Montrose spoke

cautiously but I could tell that he too was brimming with curiosity. It was so wonderful to have a captain

who loved mysteries.

How much do we know about the situation Captain? Garin was the utmost professional. I

sighed the wall had gone back up.

The Lunar Zoning Commission has provided us with blueprints of the city and with strange

anecdotes.

Is there any way to gather enough evidence to formulate a theory about what is happening?

Garin was cautious he didnt want to overstep his bounds, but he wanted to do his utmost to serve.

Theres always a way Mr. Halverson. Ms. Arteau, assemble a team and proceed to Valhalla. I

will contact Dr. Harbinger. The captain then left the room.

I have some pressing matters to attend to in the engine room. I promised Lieutenant Barton I

would assist him with some routine maintenance. If you will excuse me. Garin left promptly, politely,

and professionally.

Garin! I whispered under my breath. It wasnt my choiceit was the captains.

No. Strontium took a step back.

Cmon. Its time to leave superstition behind and see whats out there! I pushed him out the

door.

Lieutenant Barton, may I speak with you for a moment? I was always a little timid around

officers. I hoped this would go well. If it didnt, I dont think I would ever have the courage to step into

the engine room again. This place seemed almost mystical: in the center sat the fission chamber. It was

a round platform surrounded by a magnetic force field. Six glowing orbs hovered two feet above the

platform; in the middle of them a glowing tower stretched to the ceiling.

Cadet Arteau. Good afternoon what may I help you with? The Lieutenant had just the right

combination of formality and friendliness to make me feel at ease.

I understand that Cadet Halverson is helping you today.

Yes, hes right there. Mr. Bartons eyes darted to Garin and then back to me.

The captain wants me to assemble a team and find out whats happening at Valhalla.

Sounds like a good thing to do.


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Ill need someone who has a firm grasp of things. He wasnt going to make this easy for me,

was he?

You are in luck. There are plenty of sharp, analytical minds aboard this ship.

I would liketo request that Mr. Halverson accompany me.

A good choice. Cadet Halverson is a role model of professionalism and has a very analytical

mind. The Lieutenant went over and spoke privately with Garin. I could see that Garin was a little

uncomfortable with the change in his routine, but he handled the situation with all the grace and charm

of a perfect cadet.

Cadet Arteau. Do you need my assistance? He walked over. He stood a respectful four feet

away.

Yes. I need someone I can rely on for objectivity and scientific observation. I played along

with his game. If he wanted everything between us to be totally professional, then I would do that.

Let me inform Lieutenant Barton of the change in plans. I will meet you at the shuttle bay.

Strontiumleave those things here! I chided him. Ever since he got spooked in the

Cartography Room he was obsessed with that silly Tarot deck.

No. No way. I need to know whats gonna happen. He snatched them up before I could grab

them.

Whats gonna happen is that Im gonna have Captain Montrose boot you off this ship. I hatedto do it, but the situation just begged for a little toughness. Now stop clutching those things like a baby

and start trusting your teammates.

The shuttle is ready. Unfortunately one of the engines is operating at only 98.45%, but this is

the only shuttle we have been authorized to use. Garin walked out of the shuttle and I jumped. I

should have known he would have been here first, but he still surprised me. Is that why I found him so

intriguing?

The shuttle flight was fifteen minutes and very uneventful. I kept Strontium focused on security

protocols and Garin analyzed the data from the rainstorm. Was it my imagination, or was he starting to

enjoy this?

Valhalla was huge bigger than Camelot and Shangri-La combined. I stood at the towering arch

that framed the entrance, taking it all in. I turned on the display in my helmet and scanned the

surroundings. No oxygen, no recent electromagnetic activity, no unusual molecular signatures. When I

looked down the main entrance tunnel, all was quiet, cool, and dark.

Hey! Strontium took a step back.


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Cadet Jones report. I would unfortunately have to be extra professional to ease the nerves

of one cadet and to gain the trust of another.

I just saw a heat signature. It looked human in form.

The old Saturn Ten suits had a terrible reputation for being leaky. Perhaps someone is already

inside. Dr. Harbinger blithely observed.

Dr. Harbinger! Youre here. Wheres your shuttle? I was getting really quite distressed at the

way Dr. Harbinger seemed to appear out of nowhere.

Shall we proceed? He invited us to follow him.

The large, cavernous hallways of Valhalla were dark and bare. We walked slowly and hesitantly,

avoiding hanging wires and construction platforms. There was something about the atmosphere

nothing unusual registered on our sensors it was something that was tickling the underside of my soul.

Heat signature, five Oclock. Garin broke the silence.

Theres a second heat signature to our immediate left both human in shape. Nara weve

gotta leave. We shouldnt be here. Strontium was doing his best to keep calm, but his panic seeped

through his words.

Two more heat signatures fifty yards aheadand both look human. Dr. Harbinger added.

Any idea why theyre here? Are they workers who didnt hear about the evacuation order? I

felt unusually confident. I think joining the Samuel Hain was the right decision after all.

The heat signatures are too intense to be explained by old space suits. Garin said whileadjusting his sensors.

Any theories? Dr. Harbinger asked.

None at the present moment Dr. Harbinger. Garin replied.

Three more heat signatures traveling due west. Lets follow them. My first order. This would

be a moment I would remember for a long time.

We came to an unfinished hallway that was exposed to the lifeless lunar atmosphere. The

incomplete walkway vanished in the lunar sand. The earth, home sweet home, lay just beyond the

horizon. I looked to my left and right; so far everyone was safe and coping with the unusual

circumstances.

Something pushed me from behind. I stumbled forward and fell into the sand. A wave of fear

and anguish washed over me for no reason at all. It was like I was experiencing someone elses feelings.

Garin quickly pulled me back up.


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Ms. Arteau are you alright? He turned off his sensors so he could see me better.

Yes, Im OK now.

Did you injure yourself when you fell Cadet Arteau? Dr. Harbinger seemed to take an unusual

interest in my welfare.

When I was on the groundII felt something. It was a very awkward moment for me, trying

to explain to a scientist something so vague.

You meansomething buried in the sand? Garin began his scientific inquiry.

No. There was nothing buried in the sand. I replied.

Was there something unusual about the sand? Perhaps it was unusually warm? Garin turned

on his sensors and walked closer to the spot.

No no. I decided to take a risk a big one. Being careful not to step on the spot, I took Garinby the hand and pulled him into it.

Oh my God! Nara! I could hear the fear in his voice.

Garin! Its OK I quickly pulled him out. I apologize, but it was the only way I could explain

the experience.

Thats quite alright. Sometimes it can be difficult to describe empirical evidence. Garin

quickly recovered and the professional wall went back up.

But, can we replicate the resultsa third time? Dr. Harbinger pushed Strontium into the spot.

Nara! Garin! Help! Help me! I thought Strontium was going to die of fright. Garin and I

quickly pulled him back.

Dr. Harbinger that was uncalled for. I glared at him.

I apologize Ms. Arteau. Nonetheless it seems that there is something unusual about this area

that deserves further study. I believe Cadet Jones should be back to his usual, happy self in a day or so.

Dr. Harbinger stepped into the odd area himself. He hemmed and hawed.

Dr. Harbinger are you alright? I was quite puzzled by his calm demeanor.

Oh yes, quite. He suddenly looked up at me. Hmmmm..it seems as if my many years in the

scientific profession have left me without a heart. He joked. He then took a step back.

The heat signatures have returned. There are thirty of them approaching our location. Garin

announced.

Theyre comin in quick. Nara? Strontium looked to me for an answer.


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Stand your ground. If they wanted to harm us, they wouldhave done so already. I wondered

if my optimistic assessment was justified; then again, I didnt see any other options. Wait, theyve

stoppedthirty feet behind us.

The heat signatures seem to be combining into one heat source. Garin took a step toward the

anomaly.

Nothing. Theyre gone. Strontium was bewildered and more than ready to go home.

Stop construction on Valhalla. Stop disturbing the dead. We all heard the warning as it defied

the laws of nature and floated through the vacuum of space. Bare footprints came between us and

marched out across the barren sands of the moon.

Several days later I sat alone in my quarters. I looked out the window as we raced from the

moon to the depths of the solar system. Kepler was sitting on the other end of the couch, flapping his

wings. Finally, he gathered up enough courage and leapt into the air; he flew three yards and landed on

the coffee table.

Yay Kepler! Your first flight. Soon youll be going to all sorts of fantastic places just like me.

I thought this day would never come, but life is full of surprises.

Ms. Arteau. Good evening. A three dimensional hologram of Dr. Harbinger sprang up from

the center of the coffee table.

Dr. Harbinger good evening.

Since you were the team leader on the initial reconnaissance mission to Valhalla, I thought you

deserved to know the latest news.

Have you discovered something interesting?

While digging around in the ground just to the south of the site, I found this. Dr. Harbinger

held up a small pentagonal disk with strange markings on it.

That is interesting. Do you know what it is?

Happily no. This will give the ladies and gentlemen at MARI something to do. They always love

a good mysteryas do I.

Dr. Harbinger would you let me know what you find out? I would hate to be the last one to

know. I smiled.

Certainly. Good night Ms. Arteau.

Good night Dr. Harbinger.


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I then went to my storage chest. I unlocked it and carefully removed the wooden box. I opened

the box and took out our precious family heirloom: It was a pentagonal disk that looked exactly like the

one Dr. Harbinger had in his possession. It had been handed down from one generation to the next for

over 350 years.

Grandpa Mitchell you were the one who found this thing all the way back then. What Iwouldnt give to talk to you now! I sighed.

Bfk


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Shadows of the Past

Hey! Strontium stopped dead in his tracks.

Whats the matter? I looked up from the pages of Quantum Psychology.

Your black cat just crossed my path!

Strontium, thats just a myth. Garin mumbled from under the table.

Here I was, in my cozy little quarters, with Strontium unwilling to cross an invisible line thatKepler had made while Garin was busy fixing the computer under my coffee table. Neither one of them

seemed to notice the fresh flowers or the fresh fruit.

Here let me fix that. Kepler baby cmon do your trick for mommy. Cmon baby you can do

it! I gently ran my finger down his spine. He pulled his feathered wings close and then stretched them

out. He shook his whole body and arched his back. Then it began to flow, a white creamy color

starting at his head and slowly cascading down his back. After a few moments, he was white from nose

to tail.

Whoawhere did you get him? I want one. Strontium was fascinated.

I sent you the link for the breeder last week. I thought you would come around. I smiled.

Im done. It should work fine now. Garin got up and waited for me to turn it on.

Garin! Youre a sweetheart! Thank you so much. The words just bubbled out of my mouth

before I could stop them.

Im glad I could help. Now if youll excuse me. He politely stepped out ofthe room.

I thought he was going to play checkers with us. Strontium seemed surprised, but I wasnt.

Hell spend the rest of the day reading the Times. I sighed. I guess its his refuge.

An hour later my oracle beeped. I fumbled in my purse and found the three inch, silver disc.

Youre still usin that big thing? Strontium laughed. I thought those went out of style with

Baltimore Stingers.


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Im old fashioned. I replied as I touched the center. The message read private and it was

from Garin.

I know that look. Im goin, Im goin you want anything from the kitchen?

Im out of ice cream get me any flavor but almond! I called after him as he left.

Nara is Strontium there? Garin seemed more cautious than usual.

No. I sent him out for ice cream.

Good. Could you switch your display to the Samuel Hains sensor grid?

Sure. I entered the password and regulation code. Oh my thats pretty and a little strange.

Near Jupiters equator, the clouds had formed a distinctly human shape.

It is unusual. The captain has let me in on the task of studying it. However, I thought you

could provide some theories as to why this is occurring. Ill see if I can talk him into getting you on theresearch project.

Thanks. Dont worry I wont tell Strontium hell just get frightened.

Thanks Nara. Strontium doesnt need any more unusual phenomena to worry him.

Three hours later, I found Strontium in his quarters. He was sitting on the floor in the middle of

the room. He was surrounded by circle of red powder which gave off a pungent smell. Four skulls, one

placed at each of the four cardinal directions, guarded him from something that only he knew about.

The room was lit only by plasma candles. He was babbling something in French, Latin, and Dutch over

and over again.

Nara! Im sorry I never came back. I gotta get off the ship. Shes gonna kill my cousin Jennie

and then Im next! I gotta get off the ship! He had a wild, primal, terrified spark in his eyes.

Hey.its ok.its ok.whos after you? I knelt down in front of him.

Mama Graveyard Mama Graveyard. The words came out with a mixture of terror, awe, and

disbelief.

I spent the next hour trying to get more information, but Strontium kept babbling in French. I

left him and quickly made my way to the medical lab. Suddenly, the red lights flashed up and down the

hall.

Medical Emergency! Please Stand Clear! Medical Emergency! Please Stand

Clear! Two medics ran down the hall. My oracle beeped.


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Nara the cloud formation is dissolving. I dont think we will be getting a lot of data this time.

Garin sounded disappointed.

Garin I think Strontiums in trouble. He mentioned something about Mama Graveyard

coming for his cousin.

The problem sounds too vague for a solution. When I get some time off tomorrow Ill see what

I can find out about Mama Graveyard, but this sounds like more your area of expertise, I really havent

had much training in Psychology.

The next morning, Strontium was huddled on his bed, in tears. He was clutching a photo of his

cousin Jennie. The computer display on his table showed a half finished eulogy.

Im sorry about Jennie. Do do you need anything? I sat down on the edge of the bed.

I got to get off the ship! Shes gonna come for me next! We were so stupid! Mama Graveyard

Mama Graveyard always remembers and never forgives.

I know it wasnt the most ethical thing to do, but while Strontium was grieving, I used his

computer to access Jennies medical file. It showed that she died of unknown causes at 1:47 P.M. How

strange, to die of unknown causes in this day and age. I switched the display back to the eulogy this

was a side of Strontium that I never knew. His words were sensitive, elegant, and wise.

When I stepped into seminar room 14, Garin looked up from his computer. He was

disappointed and I wasnt surprised. He resumed his analysis of the cloud formation.

I know Im late. Strontium needed someone to calm himdown. I abruptly spat out.

Thats OK. I have the latest weather and magnetic field data. He replied.

I think Strontium needs our support. You might want to pay him a visit when you get off duty.

OK. Interesting Ive checked the meteorological records for Jupiter and this is the first

instance of this phenomenon. Why now?

Strontium is really upset. You know, a quick little message would really prop him up.

I would be too if my cousin died. Garin didnt look up from the console.

GarinStrontium really needs a friend right now.

He is a nice person. Im sure he has plenty of friends. So - any theories about why the cloud

formation appeared?

No. I sighed. I wouldnt push it. Thats interesting the cloud formation dissolved at exactly

1:47 P.M.


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Whats so atypical about that?

Thats the exact time that Jennie died.

Nara how do you know that? Garin looked at me.

I took a quick look at her medical file.

You know thats against regulation and unethical.

Are you going to report me?

Ill leave it up to your conscience. So you think theres a connection?

There might be.

How would we gather enough data to prove or disprove your hypothesis?

I dont know-

Nara! Look! Look! Strontiums image came up on the holo-display. I switched to the Samuel

Hains main sensors. The person shaped cloud was back.

Strontium, calm down. Youre on med watch and the docs know your every twitch. If you get

too scared theyre going to put you under for the rest of your tour. Now I was getting scared.

I think theres only one way to move forward on this research. Ill be back in a short while. If

you could record the magnetic field variations while Im gone, I would be most grateful. Garin left the

room with an unusual sense of urgency. Maybe he was being a friend after all in his own way.

An hour later, Garin and I were walking down the hall to the fighter bay. I was actually surprised

by his actions. The mystery of Garin was not over.

Have you ever flown an X-4? He brought up the technical specifications and handed them to

me.

No. Ive only trained in a U-29 simulator. I hated admitting a weakness in my training

especially to him.

Its totally different but not as intimidating as you might think. He entered the password and

regulation code on the panel next to the bay door.

Fuel tanks are almost full. Youll be ready in 5 minutes. No food in the fighters got it? The

mechanic announced. He was busy adjusting the bio fuel valves. He had an artificial spine, the metal

prongs of which could be seen glinting in the bright lights. Several robots scanned the fighters. They

looked like cylinders; they had large, black glass heads and several arms.


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Thank you. Garin replied.

I know that voice. Get over here Caddy! The mechanic turned around and gave Garin a big

hug.

Archer! I didnt expect to find you here. Garin was very uncomfortable.

Hey dont give me that look. All that is water under the bridge. Anyways, whatever

happened between you and Kalai is your business. He turned to me and shook my hand. My names

Archer Duboise.

Pleased to meet you Archer. Im Nara.

Thanks. Were here on the captains orders to scout the atmosphere. Garin announced. He

was struggling to regain his composure.

Youre here to fly the legendary X-4. He swept his hand theatrically. The X-4 had a body that

reminded one of a World War II fighter plane. Surrounding the body was a ring ten feet long and one

foot thick. It was attached to the body by four supports. Each support had a laser attached. The fighter

itself was as black as midnight.

It certainly looks legendary. I piped up.

It most certainly is. Two engines one on the front of the ring and one on the back provide a

forward or reverse thrust of up to 50,000 kph. The surface of the ring provides a thrust of up to 120

feet per second in any direction.

120 feet per second? Garin raised an eyebrow.

Yup. I got the surface ramped up these things will make a dragonfly look like a turtle.

Are these fighters difficult to fly? I hoped I didnt sound like a ground hugger.

Cmon up. Archer hopped on top of the cockpit. He held out his hand. I climbed up and

plopped down into the seat. This is the ring. Push it forward to go forward and pull it back to go back.

Squeeze the ring anywhere and youll get corresponding thrust. So if you need to drop down 36

degrees to your left, squeeze here.

Really?

Really. Thats all it takes tofly.

What about the lasers?

Activate your tactical display.

You mean this? I stepped on a red disc on the floor.


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See? Youre getting the hang of it! Archer laughed. A grid overlaid the visual display.

This thing isnt active, is it? Garin was getting a little nervous.

Nah.theres an interference signal from the ship. That way you can practice all you want and

not scratch a thing. Archer smiled.

So if I do this- I touched a spot on the tactical grid. A point of red light appeared on the hull.

Nothing happens. Garin interrupted.

So you ready to fly? Archer hopped down.

As ready as Ill ever be. This was a little scary, but it might turn out to be fun. I looked down

the launch tube.

You wont have to worry. This is a drone primary mission. Garin explained. The captain

himself has programmed our flight path into the navigational computer and weapons officers will becontrolling our guns. We will be responsible for analysis and observation.

They could doall that from the bridge. Archer sounded perplexed.

Captain Montrose wants people in the cockpit given the unusual circumstances. Garin

climbed into the cockpit of an adjacent fighter.

Garin is that music I hear? Our descent into Jupiters atmosphere was gentle and graceful. I

looked to my right and he was busy coordinating sensors and statistical algorithms. The lights in his

cockpit seemed a little dimmer than mine.

Yes it is. I am allowed to play music as long as it doesnt distract me. Its all in regulation

Section 1.B.1.a.i. He replied defensively.

Im not here to spy on you. What are you listening to?

Thulton Hamilton a very good jazz pianist from the 22nd

Century.

Hes good. How did you dim your lights?

Theres an environmental control panel under your seatit slides out.

Entering the atmosphere now. Were right on top of the phenomenon but nothing unusual. I

got back to business.

Captain Montrose, requesting permission to descend. Garin was up to something.

Permission granted Mr. Halverson.


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Captain request permission to descend. I wasnt going to be left behind.

Stay where you are Ms. Arteau. I want to get observations at different levels of the

atmosphere.

Captain Montrose, if you could switch the Samuel Hains sensors to my ship. I think Ive

discovered something quiteunusual. Garins voice was laced with shock.

Is that what I think it is? Captain Montrose asked in disbelief.

I do believe it is sir. Garin replied. Its New Orleans I would estimate in the middle of the

20th

Century.

Mr. Halverson, go down and investigate and have Ms. Arteau accompany you. The captain

instructed.

Atmosphere is breathable. I sat in my X-4 and looked over at Garin.

Well, space suits wont be necessary. But we will have to use the anti-grav exoskeletons to

compensate for the increased gravity. Also, in the back of the cockpit youll find a panel. Open it and

get a p-47. If I know Archer, hell also have a p-50 there, take that too. Garin was very clam yet alert.

The p-47 an absolute wonder. It was a gun that fired paralyzing electrodes up to 500 feet. I

switched on the wireless signal that activated the electrodes. I turned the signal strength up to

maximum enough to bring down an African elephant and kill an ordinary man. I wasnt going to take

any chances.

Was there a p-50 there? Garin walked toward me. You would think he wouldve looked

awkward and clunky in the carbon graphite exoskeleton with its little wires and hoses, but he looked

perfectly natural.

No. How about you? I stepped into the configuration of rods and strapped myself in. I turned

it on and the exoskeleton oh so faintly hummed.

Yes. Lets see fully loaded. Garin took out a bullet and held it up to the light. To think, one of

these will leave a crater four feet wide and three feet deep. I think I will start out with the p-47.

We walked through the empty streets for an hour. There was no sound and the air was still.

The shops and houses were abandoned some still had fresh coffee and doughnuts on the table.

Everything was fresh, there were no cobwebs and there was no dust.

Garin, what are we looking for?

I didnt know we were looking for anything in particular. As far as I know, were here to gather

data. Speaking of which, the magnetic field and barometric pressure seem to be fluctuating slightly.


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So is the environment. I looked through my scope. The city skyline was starting to fade. I

looked at my oracle, Strontiums heartbeat was getting irregular.

Nara, what are you looking at?

Strontiums heartbeat is getting irregular. We have to stop this somehow.

Nara did you patch into the Samuel Hains medical network?

Garin I did. Thats how I know that our friend is in trouble. Pleasejust help me!

Alright he said something about Mama Graveyard. I did some research and shes a voodoo

queen in present day New Orleans. So there has to be a connection between her, this New Orleans,

and Strontium. As Garin said this, a shadow of a man glided past him.

This cant be very good. I looked around and another shadow came between us.

I think the time for theorizing is over. Garin quickly announced. Ill bet we find MamaGraveyard in a graveyard.

We raced to the oldest graveyard on record, dodging shadows all the way. When we got past

the front gate, we were surrounded. The shades crept closer and the horizon grew dimmer. I could

clearly see the original atmosphere of Jupiter.

Garin the p-47 isnt working! The electrodes simply passed through the shadowy attackers.

Something has to be controlling all of this. Wait watch this. He opened the side panel of his

p-47 and removed a small piece of plastic.

What are you doing?

Setting it to overload. He turned the dial on the wireless signal past maximum.

Youll get killed!

Yes in about 15 minutes. In the meantime, this should keep those things at bay. So lets

think quick!

There! There! I pointed to a large mausoleum in the center of the graveyard. We raced to it,

with the shades nipping at our heels.

Its locked! I tugged on the door.

Ill unlock it. Garin aimed his p-50 at the iron door and fired. It flew off its hinges.

What are we looking for? I searched the gloom frantically.

Im not an expert on voodoo or mythology but-


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How about this? I opened the lid to the coffin and pulled out a golden locket.

That looks good to me. Suddenly, the floor beneath him gave way.

Garin! Hold on! I grabbed him. I slowly pulled him up. By this time, most of the city had

disappeared; there were only a few patches of New Orleans left. As we ran from one safe spot to

another, Jupiters atmosphere closed in behind us.

I think its about time to get rid of this. Garin threw his p-47 and it exploded, knocking us off

our feet. When we got up, there was nowhere to go.

We heard the hum of the X-4 engines above us. Rope ladders fell from their bellies and we

struggled to climb up. As we closed the cockpit doors over our heads, the last of New Orleans

disappeared.

How long? Garin asked as we ran down the halls of the Samuel Hain.

Two minutes.

Thats OK. I had an Uncle who was dead for five minutes. He replied nervously.

Is it ready? Garin was almost out of breath as we burst into the robotics lab.

Yes, yes, yes! Do it! The tech replied.

Garin threw the locket into the furnace. It glowed red for a while and then slowly started to

melt.

Well? Garin was standing over my shoulder.

Hes coming around.hes going to be OK! I hugged him.

No, no, no! No more banana pudding! Strontium pushed the tray away as he sat up in the

hospital bed.

Cmon Strontium its really good and will make you all better. I smiled. See? I took in a

spoonful and did my best to hide the fact that it tasted like stale bio sludge.

Maybe we can get you something special from the Stargazer tomorrow. Garin added.

I hope so. Strontium put the cover back on the tray.

Strontium I hope you dont mind I have to take this call. Garins oracle beeped and he

stepped out of the room.


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See you survived the worst. Youll be laughing about this when youre captain of this ship. I

put my hand on his shoulder.

Shhh! Strontium tilted his head toward the hallway.

Thank you Mr. Douglas for your offer. I hope my relationship to my uncle hasnt unduly

influenced you. Well, I think I would have to get my accounting license re-certified, but other than that I

would be able to start work immediately. Garin then put his oracle in his pocket and left.

Bfk


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New Detroit City of the Future

Strontium! Nara looked at me in disgust. I knew I shouldnt have let an animal lover into my

quarters.

What? Its just a rabbits foot good luck and all.

Not for the rabbit.

Lets get goin. I escorted her out of my place and down the hall. It was gonna be a busy day

and I didnt need any hassle.

All duty now I see.

I did my thesis on Neptune and I wouldnt miss this for all the eggs in Utopia. Now cmon girl!

Youre gonna see somethin you never saw before.

We walked into the Astro Cartography room and he was there. He was always there first. Did

he ever go to his quarters? I know I should be used to him by now, but something about Garin just, well

spooked me.

Good morning Strontium. Good morning Nara. He smiled politely and then resumed hiswork.

Hey sunshine! Got an early start did we? I slapped him on the back.

Garin did you load these sensor algorithms by yourself? Nara stared at the screen like a

schoolgirl.

Lieutenant Alvoretti provided some assistance with the more complex ones. Im afraid that Im

still trying to master the Differential Arc Nominal theory of sub atomic Calculus.

This is this is great! Lets go! Cmon, cmon! Lets align the sensors. Oh wow this is great! Icouldnt believe it. This was the nicest thing someone had ever done for me.

Sensors are ready. Nara smiled.

Just one more minute, if you will. Theres something funny about the last variable in this

algorithm. Hmmm..I think I will brush up on my Differential Theory when I get back to my quarters.


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Take your time. I sat back in my chair and waited for the show to begin.

Oh how silly. Let me just invert that and divide it by Neptunes gravitational flux. There

were all set. Garin looked at me and smiled.

You need to take it out another decimal point. I glanced at him out of the corner of my eye.

So, how was he going to handle this?

I apologize. I didnt know the sensors were that sensitive. Now I know why Captain Montrose

put you in charge of this survey.

OK here we go! Lets have a look at her. I put the information on the main display and

stood back. I took everything in. Garin was going over the magnetic field structure and Nara was

analyzing the layers of the atmosphere. I have to admit, he was pretty smooth; not everyone would

have handled being corrected so diplomatically. Every once in a while she glanced at him. He was

definitely one to chase after.

Something is a little out of sorts here. Garin searched his personal directory.

What do you mean out of sorts? I wasnt about to let a glitch ruin my first view of Neptune.

Strontium I know this is your project and how much it means to you but could I try

something? Garins tone seemed unusual almost informal.

We only have three hours for the survey. Were not comin back round this way for another

year. Should I trust him? After all, this was the guy who was gonna take off without saying goodbye.

Strontium live a little and take a risk. Nara nudged me.

OK do it. I couldnt resist those eyes.

Thank you Strontium. Equations are like tie clips and cufflinks, you have to have the right one

handy when the situation calls for it. Garin opened up his personal files and scrolled through the long

list of equations. Ah, here it is.

What is that? Nara magnified an area of Neptunes magnetic belt.

A blip. Great this is gonna throw off all the magnetic data! I threw my hands up.

Take a closer look at the gravitational field surrounding the anomaly. Garin was about to

adjust the sensors, but stopped. With your permission of course. He looked to me for approval.

Yeah, yeah, yeah whatever! Ill see ya next year Neptune. I sighed.

The electrons in the affected area are spinning faster. Nara couldnt believe her eyes.

43.334 % faster. I couldnt believe my eyes either.


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All the affected electrons are in a straight line. Garin sounded a little concerned.

Headed for earth. I raced out of the room.

Strontium you have to notify the officer in charge! Garin called after me.

Thats 2ndLieutenant Rogens and hesan idiot! I shouted back. Thank goodness I always keep

my oracle synchronized with my research.

How can I help you Mr. Jones? The captain stood in the door of his quarters in his pajamas.

I didnt like his tone.

Sir we picked up somethin badas in catastrophe bad. I was trying hard not to babble.

Where is Mr. Rogens? The captain looked over the duty list.

I thought it would be best to bring the matter up with you sir given your background.

Well, Ill just have to put my professor hat on then. Let me warn you thoughif you dont have

a sound argument and good evidence to back it upout the door with you. The look in his eyes

changed. Now I could tell that I was really in too deep. As a professor of Advanced Particle Physics

Hard Nose Montrose had cut down people whose brains were light years ahead of mine.

Take a look sir. I put my oracle on his coffee table and brought up the data on the electron

mystery.

A sensor thats not encapsulated properly will sometimes produce odd results cadet. He

looked at me sternly.

Sensors are undamaged and working fine sir. I not only checked them twice before running the

survey, I had a constant diagnostic and maintenance check running the whole time. I gulped.

Very thorough. Yet any student of Astro Cartography knows that bursts of EM radiation,

particularly microwave, can produce sensor blips.

EM radiation wasnt high enough to be detected by our sensors. I verified the levels with The

Watchers I double checked buoys 178, 179, and 182.

Tell me again why you dont have your Doctorate in Astro Cartography Mr. Jones.

Professor Halifax, sir.

Professor Halifax can be quite intimidating, but dont let one man stand in the way of your

destiny. He turned offmy oracle and placed it in my hands. Then he opened up his communications

panel. Lieutenant Rogens! Turn the Samuel Hain around and head for earth full speed!


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Impact has been verified Captain, were awaiting further word from MARI as to what our next

course of action should be. Admiral Hayes calmly announced. His image floated in the center of the

bridge.

Acknowledged Admiral. Were in luck, thanks to earths orbit, we should be able to cut 18

hours from our journey.

Thats good to hear Captain. Hayes out.

If I may have your attention, the captains voice rang throughout the ship, New Detroit has

been hit by an unknown phenomenon. There have been no communications with the city so we dont

know if there are injuries or casualties at this time. The top scientists of the UDA as well as MARI are

trying to find out what happened. Till then, New Detroit has been placed under Level 4 quarantine. I

understand that some of you have family and friends in New Detroit we will do everything we can to

provide information and support to you and your families. Thank you.

Oh no. Garin pulled out his oracle and checked his e-mails.

You OK? Nara put his hand on his shoulder.

My Uncle Nash lives in New Detroit. Garin continued to scroll through his e-mails. He didnt

seem to care that he was still on duty. Perhaps there was another side to him.

Cadet Halverson. The captain approached us.

Yes sir. Garin quickly regained his professional composure.

I was auditing the duty roster and decided to update it. If you dont mind switching duties with

Mr. Henson, I would greatly appreciate it.

Hensons monitoring the environmental backup regulators, isnt he? Nara whispered to me.

Yeah, pretty boring stuff just the right job for someone whos got a lot on his mind. I

whispered back.

When we finally arrived we were told that suits wouldnt be necessary. New Detroit sparkled in

the sun like the grand old gem that I knew she was. Nothin could keep her down. The lasers from the

quarantine beacons gave her a low key, mellow look. There were vehicles everywhere: military,medical, fire, police, MARIall just sittin around like giant clumps of lint blown in on the wind. There

he was, on the other side of the beacons why was he at the center of every mystery?

Mr. Jones, Ms. Arteau, Mr. Halverson Im glad you could make it. Professor Harbinger

warmly greeted us.


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Im actually quite surprised that we arehere. Garin confessed. Cadets usually arent called to

serious situations like this.

You three are here at my personal request. He stepped under the laser and escorted us to a

makeshift command center. The only way to develop talent, passion, and character is to be in the thick

of it all. Sometimes circumstance is the best teacher.

Professor, team one is ready. A technician announced.

Good. Lets get started then. He happily replied. There was something else under that smile

genuine concern. Well be monitoring them all the way the whole time. We have command

centers surrounding the citywell notice every sub atomic burp.

This is team leader to command center alpha; approaching event horizon. They were dressed

in full military gear; black from head to toe. They had p-50s cradled next to them. Atmosphere normal,

no fluctuations in gravity or magnetic field. Radiation levels are normal, no molecular or microbial

anomalies present.

So far so good team leader. Professor Harbinger replied. Now, if you could scan for electron

speed and any other quantum fluctuation, I think you will find some interesting things.

Acknowledged Alpha. Electron spin is 57.2% faster than normal. Sub atomic particle decay is

70.987% greater than the area surrounding the city.

See I told you we would find something special. You may enter the city when ready team

leader.

Acknowledged alpha. Crossing event horizon. Command center alpha Im not sure exactly

what happenedbut we are on the other side of the city.

The other side. Really? Command center Omegacan you confirm? Professor Harbinger was

either very intrigued or somewhat worried, I couldnt tell which.

Team one is here, Alpha. The leader of the Omega site confirmed.

We took one step into the city and ended up on t he other sidehow? The team leader

wanted to know.

Dr. Harbinger if I may. Garin spoke up.

Yes Mr. Halverson?

I have been looking at the cameras watching the city and I found this. Garin brought up an

image of the time and temperature display on top of the Schmelt Tower. It read: March 20 2374 /

1:05 PM.

Thats not possible. Today is January 16 2372. I interrupted.


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I checked several electro-fill stationsthe time is exactly the same. Garin looked at me,

hoping that I would somehow prove him wrong.

Hes right. I verified the time and date with the International and Solar Time Bureau. Nara

piped up.

Very intriguing. New Detroit has shifted 2 years and 2 months into the future. Since we

cannot time travel, the space that the city occupies literally doesnt exist. Dr. Harbinger concluded.

How do we bring it back to 2372? Garin asked.

I do not know. I honestly do not know. I will have to discuss this with my colleagues but even

they will be unable to come up with any solutions for some time.

Garin Im sorry about your uncle. Nara approached him.

Thank you Nara. Thats very kind of you. He didnt look up from his work.

Just think all those accountants trapped forever in the future. This was as good a time as

any to bring up the issue.

Yes trapped. It seems we cant escape our destiny, whether it be on earth or in the stars.

Garin looked up at me for a moment, then returned to the computer screen.

OK this is just between us. I gathered Garin and Nara close to me. In the center of our little

triad there were several boxes of Chinese takeout.

Strontium I thought we were here to play cards. Garin could always read me like a book it

irritated me like nothing else and made him my best friend.

Whats the scoop? Naras eyes were sparkling with mischief.

Ive been spying on Professor Harbinger. I took a bite and waited for their reaction.

Monitoring civilian communications is only permitted under certain circumstances. Have all

the requirements of Section 1.C.4.f been met?

I dont know and I didnt check. I quipped.

Then you could be breaking several regulations all at once. He argued.

I dont know the regulation manual, but spying isnt always the right choice. Nara added.

Look, when I get more information, well do it the legal way. So do you guys love the

regulations or do you love your country? I wasnt gonna get shot down not this time.


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OK, OK what do you have? If theres cause for concern, we can find a way to approach the

situation right side up. Garin conceded.

Let me show you this: this is a signal that Professor Harbinger sent out just one week after the

New Detroit incident. I brought up the information on the message. It displayed a three dimensional

image of a rotating triple helix.

Why are some parts changing colors? Nara asked.

You got me. Now watch what happens when I increase the magnification. I zoomed in to one

part of the helix: it was made up of thousands of floating chemical structures.

Some of the structures I recognize, theyre pheromones but others are totally impossible.

Garin observed.

Now watch this. I touched one part of the helix and something like a humpback whale song

floated through the room. I touched another part and a different whale song bounced off the walls.

Are you sure he isnt conducting some kind of research? Garin was already beginning to

doubt.

I thought so at first. I checked with some friends of mine and this is way beyond what we can

understand.

So whatever hes trying to contact isnt human. Nara touched the helix.

And two days ago it sent a reply.

Bfk


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Faith The Final Frontier

Strontium please. I dont think we need another diagnostic on the fission chamber.

Lieutenant Barton walked over to my station and sat down opposite me.

A little extra caution never hurt. I tried my best not to be embarrassed.

You do have leave, do you not? And, to be quite honest, there are several other cadets who

are dying to have a tour of duty in here.

Im fine. Thanks for asking.

You know, Friday the 13th

is really just another day. He walked away.

Hes right you know. The three dimensional image of Garin hovered above my oracle.

Easy for you to say.

I thought you would like an early birthday present. Here are the latest solar observations from

MARI. An avid Astro Cartography student such as yourself will find them to be a real treat.

Hey..thanks. Youre all right Garin.

Youre welcome.

So how is MARI? I knew it was a little rude to be downloading data in the middle of a

conversation, but like a kid in a candy store, I just couldnt wait.

The coffee is rather bland, but the scientific research opportunities are incredible.

So youre glad youre not sitting behind some desk doing someone elses taxes?

The flexibility of the MARI Research Symposium offers a refreshing detour from my official

duties aboard the Samuel Hain.

Nara and I miss youcome back soon. I smiled.

This current project should be over in about 2 weeks. Garins image then winked off.

OK, I know that look. You wont be doing anything productive around here for the next few

hours. Youre relieved from duty Mr. Jones.


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Thanks!

If you dont mind, could you transfer a copy of the data to my oracle?

Yes sir.

Youre not the only one who has a bone to pick with Professor Halifax.

I spent the next several hours going over the solar observations. Most people would have found

it boring, but I loved examining the magnetic field data, temperature, and fission reactions. This time

around, there was something new hydrogen levels. I felt like the luckiest guy in the solar system to be

alive at a time like this.

Hey! Did you realize what time it is? Nara knocked on my door.

Im comin! Im comin! I opened the door. I was just finishing buttoning up my uniform.

You know its not a good thing to be late. She straightened out the wrinkles in my sleeves.

Awww.baby you worry too much.

And you worry too little. Now cmon, before you get me in trouble too.

Yes Maam! I saluted her and walked down the hall. My mind was still on those hydrogen

levels. With the latest theories in solar dynamics, I would have a shot in getting a history of our suns

appetite.

After our day was done, we sat in the Stargazer. The latest world cup coverage blared across

the TV screens. The whack of billiard balls could be heard from the far corner. The murmur of voices

filled the dimly lit atmosphere.

Oh no! The Senegal soccer team died in a bus crash. How awful. Nara gasped.

What? Now it was me being the cold fish; but I just couldnt take my eyes off those hydrogen

levels. The latest research papers from Earth were running on my second oracle. I was just having too

much fun.

Oh my God! Theres Cadet Tanaka. I dont believe that shes wearing that in public. She must

be breaking several decency codes with that outfit.

Wow. Thats incredible. I mumbled.

Strontium youre turning into a nerd. If you keep going like this, youre going to make Garin

look like the sexiest man alive.

Sorry love, but Im totally blown away by the numbers. Hydrogen levels are insanely low. Now

Im gonna run them backwards, up, down, and inside out. Ive always wanted to stump the professor,

and this is my best shot. I looked up but she was gone. Oh well, we all gotta have a hobby.


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We got him! I declared in triumph as I met Lieutenant Barton outside lecture hall 9.

I do believe you are right Mr. Jones. Im very impressed by your arguments hopefully

professor Halifax will be also.

We sat down in the hall with a few others. It was dimly lit and the atmosphere was hushed.

Then the lights came on and a three dimensional image of professor Halifax appeared. He leaned on his

golf clubs as he chewed on his bubble gum.

Professor, did you get my latest e-mail? I leaned forward in my seat.

The professor walked to and fro for a moment, deep in thought. Then he spat out his gum. He

brought up the equations and data that I sent him a mere 5 minutes ago.

I did indeed. Mr. Jones, did you take to heart what I said the last day of class?

Yes sir. You told me that Solar Dynamics theory was not a buffet table, that I just couldnt pick

and choose what I wanted.

However, you are not practicing what I preached. You cannot make a sound argument without

Bartuczevskis Magnetic Law. Also, it appears that some of your data is missing. I would check back

with MARI.

But sir-

Mr. Jones, my tee time is in 5 minutes. If you learn golf, we can have a more in-depth

discussion. He pulled a club out of his bag and examined it.

I did take into account Bartuczevskis Law I just put it in the context of our sun. Look at the

numbers again and confine them by the set of limits of our suns size and fission rate.

Please professor I double checked his data and logicit all fits seamlessly. Lieutenant

Barton added.

Look gentlemen, I will do this for the sake of argument. After I have reached my conclusion,

you will leave me alonedeal?

Yes professor. We replied in unison.

First of all, there have been three distinct periods in the suns fission history. You havent taken

that into account. Second, you would have to invert several variables if you were to think about star

size, which you have done. Thats good. But, you would also have to look at the relationship between

magnetic field strength and gravity oh there it is. You have done well Mr. Jones you really should

pursue that degree. But, I hate to burst your bubble, when you run the data back in time you would find

that it all becomes one giant, tangled pile of spaghetti. Watch. Professor Halifax put the information


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on the secondary holo display and punched a button on his oracle. See? Its all becoming one tangled

mess. Thirty seconds to tee time, so I think we can cut this short, dont you agree?

No, no, no! Please professor wait! Theres a pattern here thatI didnt see before. See that set

of numbers?

Mr. Jones. The professor sighed. Im going to explain those numbers in 5 seconds or less. If

you simplywait a minute. He put his club back in his bag. This is absolute nonsense. Are you sure

this information is correct?

Absolutely. We replied in unison.

This is fascinating but still absolute nonsense. Give me a week and I will meet you here and

brush up on your Solar Dynamics theory!

A week later Lieutenant Barton and I were back in the lecture hall. I had bought a third oracle

for the occasion. I had all three running: the first one had the solar data, the second one had Solar

Dynamics Theory and Bartuczevskis Space-Time Gravitational Dispersion Theory, and the third had the

latest research articles. There were several packages of premium bubble gum awaiting us when we

arrived.

Gentlemen. Im glad you are dressed properly for the occasion. Today, we are about to make

scientific history or be laughed out of the scientific community. Im not sure which. Professor

Halifaxs three dimensional image paced back and forth between us. Any last words before we

undertake this illogical journey of madness?

Full speed ahead professor! I joked.

I admire your total disregard for your reputation Mr. Jones. So.I analyzed the data, I analyzed

it a second and third time, I shared it with several colleagues, I asked them if I was hallucinating, I had a

good supper, and then went to bed. In the morning, I had enough confidence in my sanity to reach the

only conclusion possible: our sun should have died several times. His words hit us like a bucket of ice

water.

Your equations are flawless professor, but I dont recognize some of them. Lieutenant Barton

stared at the holo display to our right.

I had to come up with a few new tricks up my sleeve Mr. Barton.

So what has kept our sun alive? I looked at the image of our sun floating over the holo display

to our left. A chill went down my spine.

A good question. One I wantyou to find the answer to Mr. Jones.

Me-me sir? I wasnt ready for this.


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Yes, Strontium YOU. The numbers predict a cycle. Our sun should run dangerously low on

Hydrogen in about 2 months. Professor Montrose excuse me Captain Montrose will be taking the

Samuel Hain into an observatory orbit around the sun in the next few weeks. Wont you Isaiah?

Indeed I will Professor Halifax. Just like the good old days, eh Jonathan? The Captain,

unbeknownst to us, was sitting in the back row.

Sir! We both stood up.

At ease gentlemen. Lets get the Hain ready for this mystery. Im eager to find out the

answer. He put a piece of gum in his mouth and sat down next to us.

So two months later we were orbiting our sun. The captain had committed the physics lab and

materials lab, as well as the cartography room to this gig. I felt a little embarrassed because the captain

put me in charge of the whole thing.

Good Morning Strontium, Nara. Garin walked into the lecture hall.

Good Mornin! Welcome to Boredom City. I sighed. Two weeks and nothing interesting.

Cheer up Strontium just keep your eyes peeled. Its kind of like fishing. Nara nudged me.

And I think you have a bite. Garin pointed to the central holo display. An image of the sun

was flanked on both sides by raw data.

Youre better than a good luck charm! Hydrogen levels rising fast! Holy cow, the algorithms

can barely keep up with them. What is goin on in there? We looked at the screen in wonder forseveral minutes. After an hour, it was all over.

This is incredible. Can you make heads or tails of it? Nara looked at me expectantly.

Of course I can in several decades. It would take several new theories to even come up with

an answer. What do I look likea genius? I winked at her.

If I may? Professor Harbinger walked into the lecture hall.

Welcome aboard the crazy train, Professor. I saluted him.

Back in the 22nd Century, there was an eccentric man some would say a crackpot that had

an unusual view of solar activity. I cant remember the name right now, but he posited that intense

solar activity slightly warped time space in a stars immediate vicinity, or was it the other way around?

But how would we detect a warp in space time? Garin seemed doubtful, but I dont know if

his doubt centered on the theory or Professor Harbinger.


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At MARI, we have been working on several methods to detect such wrinkles if you will. If

you adjust your sensors to pick up vibrations in electron orbits, you just might see something. Here, I

come bearing giftsif you plug these Quantum String Theory inversion subroutines into your sensors

EM phase differentials, you should have some amount of success.

Professor, these are revolutionary techniques, decades ahead of any research I know of.Garin whispered in awe.

Thank you Mr. Halverson. At MARI, we take elevating mankinds knowledge and existence very

seriously. He replied with a smile.

I got something. Wind the display back to when the hydrogen levels shot up. I was close, so

very close to making history. This would earn me a degree or maybe even two.

Computer, increase magnification. Nara commanded. What is that?

A cloud of something? I was so frustrated. The answer was slipping away.

Now its gone. Where did it go? Is there a trajectory? She frantically tapped on her computer.

Nothin. OK time for lunch. I have a feelin this is gonna take more than a few days to figure

outmaybe a lifetime.

I dont

Documents

The Chronicles of the Samuel Hain First Series