On Thursday April 17th 2019 at 4:35 p.m. inside the federal Justice complex at joint Bas Milton I finished the last of my coffee and glanced at my watch the day had dragged on and I couldn't wait for it to end after 3 hours of testifying and answering an endless stream of questions I found myself in a cramped room with nothing but a TV and my thoughts it had been over 2 hours since I'd last seen anyone and I was Starting to wonder when the board would finally reach their decision just then the door opened and
Commander Jack Tanner my legal rep stepped in they're done for the day Lieutenant Turner he informed me that's me Jackson Turner or just Jack to friends and family I'm a senior flight lieutenant in the United States space Corps formerly known as the space force which was established almost 80 years ago they want you back at 8:00 a.m. tomorrow head back to your quarters Commander Tanner instructed and remember no talking to the other Witnesses especially your wife you mean my sunab ex-wife the cheating one I clarified bitterness lacing my words he nodded exactly he confirmed now
get going lieutenant and stay out of trouble yes sir I replied standing up I stretched grabbed my case and headed out I drove my small electric car back to the boq where I quickly changed clothes microwaved a veggie burger and grabbed a Cold beer after a quick quick meal I settled into my chair flipped on the TV to check the news but found nothing worth watching I leaned back letting my thoughts drift over the events of the past few weeks until recently I'd been serving as the weapons officer aboard the USS Liberty a top-of-the-line spacecraft
named after an iconic American symbol it housed a crew of 110 and carried an impressive array of Firepower nuclear missiles energy Weapons rail guns and mini lasers the Liberties maiden voyage to Saturn was supposed to be special not just because of the mission itself but because my wife Camila was also on board as the chief pilot we were high school sweethearts who'd vowed to be faithful to each other and we shared a dream of exploring space together despite being stationed at the same base our assignments often kept us apart but I never once questioned her
loyalty while She was away on missions I threw myself into training in graft TCH a martial art designed for low gravity environments honing my skills and staying focused I had no reason to doubt her and I never even entertained the possibility of her being unfaithful Temptations arose of course but I stayed true to our relationship never imagining she'd betray me we had often fantasized about being together in Zero Gravity on the moon or Mars experiencing the kind of Closeness only space could offer so when we both received orders for the Liberty it felt like our
dreams were finally coming true but what started as a dream quickly turned into a nightmare I remember the day we launched like it was was yesterday Friday January 3rd 2019 at the Kennedy Space Center in Florida I was suited up and deep in thought as I boarded the shuttle that would take me to the Liberty which was in orbit Camila as the chief pilot had left earlier that Morning on the first shuttle I was on the third shuttle with three more schedule to follow seated next to me was commander Rick Harrison better known as Ironclad
for his sheer size and tough demeanor we'd gone through the academy together though we hadn't interacted much Ironclad had been Camila's Mentor back then a strict instructor but our paths hadn't crossed much beyond that excited to serve with your wife Turner Ironclad Asked his deep voice breaking my thoughts yes sir I am I replied trying to keep my voice steady this mission's going to make history he remarked going further than we've ever gone to Saturn and back in under 120 days quite the journey I said as the pumps beneath this word signaling our imminent launch
Ironclad grunted Time to Say Goodbye To Earth he muttered before reclining in his seat we braced for lift off and as the shuttle rumbled beneath us gravity's Pull intensified through the window I watched the clouds whip past as we ascended into the darkness Earth's curve visible below the boosters detached with a jolt heading back for reuse at the launch site an hour later a massive structure came into view there she is Ironclad said lifting his visce docking in a few 30 minutes later the shuttle approached the Liberty's open dock the connection sealed with a hiss
As the pressure equalized there we go Ironclad said prepare for Gravity we're running at 0.8g I could feel the weight of my gear increase as we approached the Liberty from near zero gravity in the shuttle to the ship's artificial gravity system I was grateful to feel the pole again space can wreak havoc on your body without gravity I had a to my cabin hoping to find Camila but she wasn't there her belongings were already neatly Stowed a clear sign she had arrived earlier I changed into my flight suit grabbed my cap and made my way
to the bridge as the weapons officer it was my job to ensure all our systems were in working order the bridge was buzzing with activity as I ran through my calibration routines checking the missile platforms energy weapons and targeting systems everything had to be in perfect working order especially under captain Daniel Myers a no-nonsense Leader I had served with before after submitting my report to Captain Myers who recognized me from our last mission together we verified the codes for the cruise missiles two keys required for launch one held by the captain one by me good
to have you aboard Turner Captain Meyer said I hear you're married to our chief pilot Camila yes sir I responded should make things interesting for you he said with a smile I hope so sir I replied glancing at Camila as she smiled Mischievously at me before returning to her duties Ironclad arrived on the bridge his eyes cold as ever I returned to my station making sure everything was ready Myers had a habit of running weapons drills at unexpected times so I had to be prepared as always we started with a calibration check to ensure everything
was perfect once that was done Captain Myers initiated the final pre-launch procedures all systems were green we were ready to launch all Systems go Myers called out engines are running hot and steady came the reply from Lieutenant Scott our chief engineer Weapons Systems are all set calibrated and accounted for I confirmed from my station navigation Captain Meers asked course is plotted and locked ETA at Mars station is 440 hours Lieutenant Ryan our Navigator reported all Personnel in place and ready for LA punch Ironclad said from his position Myers nodded and pressed a button on his
console Houston This is Liberty requesting permission to launch launch authorization granted Liberty godspeed came the response for Mission Control Roger that Houston Meers replied before turning to Camila Helmsman take us out nice and easy I sir Camila responded her hands moving swiftly over the controls two levers pulled the control column in her hands steady the Liberty inched forward maneuvering thrusters guiding us out of the dock it wasn't until we were clear Of the structure that Camila engaged the main thrusters the ship vibrated as the ion Fusion engines roared to life and we accelerated leaving Earth
behind spiraling out of orbit toward Point Bravo Camila announced her Focus sharp I could see the tracker on the Navigator's console displaying our route a perfect Arc around the planet heading out toward the moon as we left Earth's gravitational influence we approached the critical point where we'd ignite the Full thrust the Navigator's voice came over the comms again ETA to Bravo point is 2 minutes sir all clear ahead copy that Captain Myers acknowledged engines warmed up and ready engines are primed Lieutenant Scott confirmed hitting Point Bravo in 3 2 1 the Navigator counted down punch
it Myers commanded and Camila executed the order with precision the ship surged forward the hum of the engines growing louder as the thrusters pushed us to speeds unimaginable on Earth I stole a glance at Camila Pride swelling in my chest she was good at what she did and I couldn't help but smile at her but as I turned back to my console I caught a glimpse of Ironclad his expression was Stone Cold eyes fixed on Camila something about his demeanor unsettled me but I pushed the thought aside we had a mission to focus on an
hour later my an return turned as Ironclad posted the officer schedules for the coming shifts I noticed Something that made my blood run cold I'd been assigned to the second shift in space we followed Houston's time schedule with simulated day and night shifts senior officers like myself usually took the first shift seeing my name on the second shift meant that I'd barely have any time with Camila her name was listed for the first shift and the overlap between our schedules would be minimal just a few minutes during shift change I clenched my fists this felt
like a demotion and Ironclad knew it is there a scheduling problem Lieutenant ironclad's voice cut through my anger he was standing right in front of my console arms crossed I stood up meeting his gaze am I still the senior weapons officer sir yes of course he replied with a smirk then why am I on the second shift I demanded it feels like I'm being sidelined in my opinion it's the best place for you Ironclad said his voice Low but firm if you have a problem with the schedule you can take it up with the captain
through me by then Captain Myers had noticed the exchange and approached what seems to be the issue here gentlemen Lieutenant Turner isn't happy with the bridge schedule sir Ironclad said his tone deliberately neutral Myers looked over the schedule and frowned I understand his concern number one it's highly unusual don't you agree yes sir normally I would Ironclad replied Smoothly but I think Lieutenant Turner's skills are best utilized on the second shift it also gives us a chance to train the other Gunnery officers during the first shift I knew he was full of it this wasn't
about training other officers this was about keeping me away from Camila Captain Myers wasn't buying it either is that the only reason Commander or is there something more he asked his eyes narrowing if I may speak freely sir Ironclad said Always Myers replied I've never been a fan of spouses serving on the same ship especially in close quarters it's a distraction and I don't want them losing focus on their duties my side but nodded I see I understand your concerns but I won't allow this to affect morale make sure they have time together understood yes
sir Ironclad said though the look in his eyes told me he didn't mean it Captain Meers turned to me can you handle that Lieutenant yes sir I replied through gritted teeth Good carry on Meyers said before walking away Ironclad leaned in closer to me his voice barely a whisper don't worry Turner I'll keep a close eye on your wife he smirked before turning on his heel and walking off leaving me fuming at my station I turned to Alice who quickly put a finger to her lips don't say anything Jack she said in a low voice
we'll talk later I'll call Lieutenant Anderson yes ma'am I muttered Quietly I glanced over at Camila who was focused on her console her face flushed I couldn't tell if it was embarrassment or guilt feeling humiliated I left the bridge my mind racing something was definitely off I headed to the mess hall hoping to grab something to eat it wasn't meal time so I figured the options would be limited the guy behind the plexiglass partition Shrugged as I approached not much left Lieutenant we've got these artificial meat Burgers They taste awful but they'll fill you up
that'll do I said taking one on a tray he handed me a packet of ketchup and grinned want some axle grease to go with it sure why not I replied with a weak smile taking the packet thanks anytime Lieutenant he said nodding as I wed walked off to find a table I sat down and ate in silence drowning the Bland burger and ketchup to make it bearable it wasn't great but at least it filled me up after finishing I tossed the tray In trash then headed back to my quarters I lay down hoping sleep would
come but my thoughts kept drifting back to Ironclad what did he mean when he said he'd keep an eye on Camila after tossing and turning for about an hour I gave up frustrated I threw on my workout clothes and headed for the gym on one of the lower decks thankfully the place was empty good I thought I could work out some of my frustration without anyone around I stretched hit the treadmill for A bit then moved to the weight machines afterward I adjusted the gravity to 0.4g and practiced some grav Tac moves by the time
I was done I was drenched in sweat and finally ready to sleep I reset the gravity and returned to my quarters taking a quick shower in a tiny bathroom I set my alarm and fell asleep the second my head hit the pillow when the alarm went off I groggy got up showered again shaved and dressed I headed to the galley for a quick snack which was much Better than the awful Burger I'd had earlier then I made my way to the bridge just as Camila was getting off her shift hello stranger I said with a
smile she looked at me returning the smile hi I didn't get a chance to say it earlier but you did a great job with the launch I said to lift her spirits thank you she replied a bit softer now maybe I'll stop by during your lunch break and we can spend some time together I suggested fully expecting her to come up with an Excuse to my surprise she didn't sure I'll set an alarm she said a playful glint in her eyes maybe you can have me instead of one of those fake Burgers she teased works
for me I said relieved see you in 6 hours I'll be be there she replied giving me a quick kiss before heading off I watched her walk away feeling a sliver of hope that maybe we could make things work just as I turned back I caught sight of Ironclad grinning about time you showed up Turner he said Smugly I glanced at my watch my shift doesn't start for another 15 minutes Commander I replied evenly just wanted to talk to my wife before duty if that's all right with you for a moment I thought he might
snap at me but he just Shrugged yeah all right he said walking off down the corridor I made my way onto the bridge and took over for lieutenant Anderson who handed over the shift and walked out as I started running the Necessary calibrations Alice approached me how are you holding up she asked softly I'll be fine Alice I said trying to brush it off seriously how are you doing she pressed concerned in her voice it's not easy but I can handle it thanks for asking I replied you're welcome she said listen I know you've got
a lot on your mind but I think you should keep an eye on cila and Commander Harrison she added her voice dropping lower I looked at her shocked you think something's Going on between them maybe she said her tone cautious call it female intuition but I've noticed some glances between them nothing obvious but there's definitely something there got it I said my stomach twisting thanks for the heads up I'm planning to meet up with her during lunch hopefully that'll help I hope so too Jack she said with a nod but don't go telling the captain
without solid proof accusing a senior officer without evidence could blow up in your Face I'll be careful I assured her thanks for watching out for me she nodded and walked away leaving me alone with my thoughts I finished the calibration and inspected the missile systems making sure everything was in working order by the time I was done Captain Myers was back on the bridge how about a little target practice he suggested with a grin sure thing sir I replied eager for the distraction launch some drones Myers Instructed I set up five drones and activated the
mini lasers which were like old school miniguns but fired beams of intense heat the lasers quickly destroyed the drones with pinpoint accuracy nice work Lieutenant Myers praised thank you sir I replied why don't you take the cender seat while I catch a quick nap he said already heading toward his quarters yes sir thank you I said sliding into the command chair I'd served with Captain Myers long enough to know he was fond of power naps sitting in the command seat felt good like I had control over the ship and its crew each officer on the
bridge wore a wrist device that acted as a multi-tool timekeeper Communicator tracker and Vital Signs monitor the only time it wasn't worn was in the shower I pulled up the tracking Monitor and quickly located Ironclad in his quarters his steady pulse showing on the readout indicating he was still wearing his Device next I checked Camila's Beacon and saw she was also in our quarters her vital steady asleep for a moment I was tempted to review the tracker history but I didn't have the necessary clearance plus if I got caught snooping it would raise questions I
wasn't ready to answer convinced that I wouldn't find anything incriminating I deactivated the tracker and focused back on the bridge everyone seemed to be busy with their duties paying no attention to me I Returned to my console double-checking the systems everything was operating smoothly and we had a course adjustment coming up in about an hour already programmed into the navigation system the comm's officer was in regular contact with Houston's flight control so there wasn't much for me to do unless the captain's intervention was required about two hours into the shift petty officer marks came by
taking drink orders ship regulations allowed us to Have drinks at our stations as long as they had covers and straws she returned shortly after with beverages for everyone just in time for my lunch break Captain Meers returned to the bridge taking his seat I briefed him on the shift's progress and he nodded making a few notes in his journal thank you lieutenant he said go ahead and take your break he added giving me a knowing wink yes sir I said stepping away from from my post and heading for our Quarters I paused outside the hatch
taking a deep breath before entering Camila was already awake stretching as the alarm had just gone off ready for dinner she asked with a teasing smile I grinned and joined her on the bed absolutely I said pulling her close we shared an intimate moment and for a brief while all the tension and doubts melted away that was incredible she said afterward her breathing still heavy much needed I agreed read missed you missed You too she said softly leaning her head on my chest I love you so much love you too I replied feeling a bit
of the old connection return but as I checked the time reality hit we've got to clean up and get back soon I reminded her she sighed but nodded you're right she glanced at the clock 40 minutes left in your break she observed maybe we can sneak in round two during your lunch break she suggested with a Sly grin definitely I agreed feeling a little Better I Rose took a quick shower and got dressed before leaving the cabin I kissed her then dimmed the lights and adjusted the gravity back to 0.7 I headed to the galley
for a quick bite before my shift grabbing a tuna sandwich to refuel space love was nothing like in the movies with low gravity blood flow and other physiological issues make things complicated and while the ship's artificial Gra gravity helped it was Still tricky scientists once thought sending couples to space would be a bad idea but advances in artificial gravity in the early 2000s changed all that allowing married couples to serve together under specific conditions Camila and I had found a way to make it work but I couldn't help but wonder how much longer it would
last after my sandwich I made my way back to the bridge arriving Just in Time Captain Myers greeted me with a smile how was Your lunch good sir I said taking my seat and getting back to my duties over the next 17 days Camila and I saw each other during breaks it wasn't much but it was enough to keep us going I had limited interaction with Ironclad which was a relief and Alice kept me updated on anything unusual she noticed so far there hadn't been any major red flags but something still didn't sit right with
me as we approached Mars station I started feeling uneasy again something Was off and I couldn't shake it when we docked I was looking forward to sh leave with Camila at hans's base we'd planned to spend time together just the two of us away from the ship and its tensions but my plans were abruptly derailed when Ironclad informed me of an issue with one of the weapon stations what I asked surprised I checked the systems just a few hours ago everything was fine Lieutenant Anderson who had been covering the shift before docking Explained that the
issue has cropped up right before we docked something's wrong with the mini lasers sir he said I felt a surge of frustration I'll take a look at it I said determined to get to the bottom of the issue we've got 72 hours here Ironclad reminded me make sure those weapons are ready to go by launch disheartened I turned to Camila who gave me a reassuring smile it'll be okay we'll still visit hans's base I'll bring you back a souvenir Ironclad smirked as He added don't worry turn I'll keep an eye on your wife while you're
busy his words stung and I clenched my jaw in silence Captain Myers approached us ready for some downtime he asked clearly unaware of the tension yes but Turner here needs to check out the weapon systems first ironclad said Myers looked at me is there a problem with the lasers many lasers are out of calibration sir Anderson explained when did this happen Myers asked frowning Just before docking Anderson replied Myers turned to me better check it out Lieutenant I'll join you thank you sir I said grateful for his support I threw a quick glance at Ironclad
who looked less than pleased I'll help too Anderson offered eager to be of assistance much appreciated Anderson I said letun head to the station before the shuttles leave Ironclad gave me a look but Captain Myers cut him off go ahead number one he instructed waving him off Ironclad Walked away and I couldn't help but feel a sense of relief as I watched him leave as I made my way to the weapons Bay Alice caught up with me something's fishy Jack she whispered I'll keep an eye out while you're working thanks Alice I said grateful for
her vigilance once I reached the weapon station I changed into my work uniform which lasers are having issues I asked Anderson number two and number five sir Anderson Responded I'll handle number two you check number five but let's inspect them all I instructed understood sir Anderson said heading off to work on the other lasers Captain Myers joined me shortly after I started unscrewing the control panel of laser 2 what's the situation he asked pulling on his gloves just about to find out I replied prying the panel open inside I immediately noticed the problem a gear
in the drive system had broken off and the e-clip that held it In place was missing oh I muttered inspecting the damage what's the issue Meers asked stepping closer someone's tampered with this device I explained holding up the broken gear the e-clip is missing and the drive gear is damaged could that have impacted the weapon system he questioned concern clear in his voice absolutely I confirmed if the lasers had been active they might have pierced the whole how could this happen he wondered aloud it seems deliberate I Speculated these systems are sealed you'd need a
specific tool like this one I said showing him the tool I had used can it be fixed Myers inquired yes but it'll take time I replied about 8 to 10 hours assuming no further issues come up wow Myers remarked need some help I appreciate the offer but this task needed to be handled solo no sir I can manage but thanks there's only room for one set of hands in here just then Anderson called in on Moms Lieutenant the e-clip is broken on my end to and the drive gear is damaged I turned to Myers we'll
need to replace the entire control unit I informed him agreed Myers nodded and get the Armory to inspect all weapon platforms stood Anderson replied what are the odds of two control units failing simultaneously Myers asked his brow furrowed highly unlikely I responded these units are among the most reliable in our inventory I've never seen one Malfunction like this let alone too at the same time could it be a manufacturing flaw Meyers suggested I doubt it sir I replied these systems go through rigorous testing before installation I've worked with hundreds of these and never encountered an
issue like this we need to notify Houston Myers decided we'll bring in Engineers from Mars station and run a full level five diagnostic it's absurd that a trillion Dollar spacecraft could be halted by a missing eclip I nodded in agreement keep me updated on the progress Meyers instructed yes sir I affirmed as he left I turned back to the device removing the control box entirely as I did something CAU my eye a dark stain on the interior hole it wasn't transmission grease upon closer inspection it looked like blood whoever sabotaged the system had injured themselves
in the process I carefully used a pair of tweezers to collect a Sample of the substance sealing it in a small back I plan to take it to the medical facility for DNA analysis later while an armorer replaced the faulty control box my mind kept wandering back to Rick he seemed determined to keep Camila and me apart Chang schedules and now perhaps sabotaging the weapon systems his words about taking care of her only added fuel to the fire the idea that she might have been unfaithful with him made my stomach churn after the new Control
box was installed and a dry test run successfully I loged the maintenance and noted the Lost Time 10 hours that could have been spent on Shore leave with Camila there were no additional clues in the log Anderson confirmed the installation and reported no other issues though I instructed him to carry out a full visual inspection and inventory of all weapons and missiles on my way to the bridge I made a stop at the medical Bay how are you lieutenant Turner Chief Benson greeted me could you run a DNA test for me I asked we have
the equipment but the final analysis will need verification by a certified lab she explained I handed her the sample I need to know whose blood this is I stated I'll get started she promised it'll take a few hours and we need to compare it to existing DNA records I appreciate it Chief keep This Confidential please she agreed nodding of course sir I thanked her and left Heading to the bridge to give my report Meers was waiting by the hatch to his ready room fix it he asked yes sir I confirmed Lieutenant Anderson is checking the
remaining systems now good step into my office lieutenant he said gesturing for me to follow inside I found Alice and Commander Carlson the ship's senior security officer Alice closed the hatch and sat down thank you both for coming so quickly Meers began addressing Alice and Carlson we have a Situation it appears there's been sabotage aboard the ship two weapon systems were tampered with before our arrival at Mars station I've been instructed to conduct an initial investigation and to contact the Kors criminal investigation division they won't arrive for at least 36 hours so we have that
time to gather as much information as we can I'm granting you both full access to the tracking history Carlson nodded understood sir I need to Know who accessed those weaponized units as soon as possible Meers continued this investigation must be thorough but discreet we can't let the crew catch wind of this we understand sir Carlson affirmed a team of Engineers from Mars station is conducting full level five Diagnostics on the ship Myers added it'll take 72 hours command doesn't want us departing with a potential sabot on board what's the plan for the mission I asked
the mission may be cancelled Myers Said flatly we can't take the risk I raised my hand to interject just one thing sir I found Blood on the control box we replaced I've sent a sample to the medical Bay for DNA analysis good call my said I'll follow up with Chief Benson anything else we all shook our heads dismissed you have your tasks Myers concluded yes sir Carlson said standing and leaving the room I secured my tool bag on the weapons console as I prepared to depart the bridge but before I could leave Alice called me
over Jack she said softly yes ma'am I responded I've been keeping an eye on Camila and Commander Harrison she said lowering her voice they quite close what do you mean I asked my heart sinking she showed me her phone my stomach lurched as I saw the pictures Camila and Rick entering a club together hand inand dancing drinking and engaging in Intimate behavior in another set of images they were entering a hotel together their Intentions were unmistakable I'm sorry Jack Alice whispered I thought you should know thank you I said struggling to keep my voice steady
I I appreciate it will you tell the captain she asked gently I don't have a choice I replied my chest tightening but I'm glad you told me first I left the bridge in a days catching up with Anderson we completed the remaining system checks and conducted an inventory my shift ended And I grabbed a quick snack in the galley before returning to my quarters hoping for some rest sleep didn't come easily with thoughts of Camila and Rick swirling in my mind but eventually I drifted off a few hours later I woke shered and dressed just
as I was about to leave Camila walked into the cabin looking refreshed did you enjoy yourself I asked trying to keep my voice calm yes we had a good time she replied nonchalantly sorry you couldn't join us Maybe next time I stared at her my anger bubbling beneath the surface what were the engineers doing on the station she asked changing the subject routine maintenance I replied shortly what's your plan now she asked sitting down casually I'm going to rest I said trying to keep my tone even I'm off duty for the next 12 hours are
you starting your shift yes she confirmed looking at me with a soft smile did you manage to fix the issue I believe so I answered good She said standing up missed you out there really I retorted unable to hold back anymore that's not the impression I got what do you mean she asked suddenly on guard I heard you and Rick had some fun I said coldly anything you want to tell me she looked at me pretending to be shocked we danced and had a few drinks but that's it she insisted nothing else I pressed of
course not she exclaimed figting innocence Why would you even think that forget it I muttered moving toward the door she tried to stop me reaching out for a kiss but I turned my head letting her kiss my cheek instead Jack I love you she said softly what's wrong you tell me I replied walking out of the cabin before she could say another word as I walked away my mind churned with anger and confusion did she really think she could fool me that easily did she expect me not to notice not to care I headed back
to my station and noticed that Rick was absent I continued with the Diagnostics focusing on my work to keep my mind off the mess with Camila after about 7 hours I realized I hadn't eaten so I decided to take a lunch break as I finished up I made the decision to confront Camila directly I needed answers I made my way back to our quarters determined to have it out with her but when I opened the hatch I was greeted by a sight no husband should Ever Witness there on our bed were Camila and Rick entangled
together the room's gravity had been set to 0.9g making everything feel just a bit heavier than normal they both turned to me caught off guard Camila scrambled to cover herself while Rick with that smug grin on his face simply adjusted his clothing shut the hatch Rick ordered coldly his voice filled with arrogance what the hell are you doing here my mind was racing but I kept my cool I live Here Comm commer I said through gritted teeth as Rick dressed he chuckled under his breath didn't your wife tell you we were just having a little
fun he looked at me with contempt and I could feel the heat rising in my chest but before I could respond Rick continued listen why don't we talk outside Turner manto man Camila looked at me with a mix of guilt and shame her eyes pleading I'm sorry Jack she whispered we can talk about this later I ignored her and focused on Rick who motioned for me to follow him out into the hallway reluctantly I went but not before turning on the video recording function on my suit it was a feature we all had meant for
documenting incidents during missions this I decided would be one of those incidents as we walked Rick continued to mock me talking about how Camila had come to him for support he even praised my idea of adjusting the gravity in the quarters claiming it made things more interesting When I asked him how long this had been going on he smirked and said second year at the Academy Turner she came to me for guidance and well let's just say she couldn't resist I wanted to hit him to wipe that smug grin off his face but I knew
better my career was on the line and I wasn't about to let him bait me into doing something stupid so you've always been there for her huh I asked trying to keep my voice steady absolutely Lieutenant he replied not Bothering to hide his pride I have an act for keeping her happy and was that why you changed the bridge schedule I pressed sensing his admission was close you catch on quick Turner Rick said with a smirk it's all part of the job and the sabotage I asked the tension thick in the air Rick looked at
me his eyes narrowing slightly between us yes he said making air quotes around the word investigation what's your next move planning to get rid of me I asked my Fists clenched he chuckled leading us into the elevator certainly not Lieutenant would I take out an officer just for a fling you've got me all wrong we reached the airlock and Rick stopped his hand hovering over the control panel the inner hatch was already open and all the space suits had been removed he pulled out a small pistol and aimed it at me you think you figured
it all out huh he said with a smirk I know enough I replied my mind racing what now are you Planning to make it look like an accident Rick's grin widened it's simple really after discovering your wife's Affair you grew despondent sabotaged the weapon systems to frame me and then took your own life when she said she was leaving you who do you think the command will believe a failed husband or a decorated officer like me I took a deep breath assessing the situation the gravity was set at 0.8g not ideal for fighting but manageable
in one quick Motion I leaped up and struck Rick twice sending him reeling before he could recover I Slamm the hatch shut locking him inside the airlock he banged on the door Furious let me out Turner you're making a big mistake I've got one question Commander I said staring through the small window did Camila know about your plan Rick's face Twisted into a sneer of course she did it was her idea now open the door Lieutenant before I Make things worse for you I reached for the control panel but instead of opening the inner door
I hit the button to release the outer hatch Rick's eyes widen in shock as he realized what was happening no wait he shouted but it was too late the outer door slid open and Rick was sucked into the vacuum of space his body tumbled helplessly caught off guard without a suit he had only seconds before the air in his lungs expanded causing excruciating pain he would Either suffocate or freeze in a matter of moments I activated the comms Man Overboard starboard airlock number two I announced calmly the alarm blured throughout the ship and soon a
crowd gathered at the airlock Captain Myers and Alice were among the first to arrive followed closely by Camila Commander Harrison sir I said handing Captain Myers a day to drive he confessed to sabotaging the Weapons Systems and having an affair with Lieutenant turn Her he also tried to kill me and make it look like a suicide it's all on here Camila's face went pale as she peered into the airlock her eyes filling with tears as she realized Rick was gone his body was now drifting in an unstable orbit around Mars making recovery nearly impossible you
killed him you fool she screamed tears streaming down her face I hate you that's enough Lieutenant Meers interjected stepping in to diffuse the situation he turned to Alice and said Take her to Sick Bay and then hand her over to Security he turned back to me his expression solemn you're relieved of Duty pending the investigation Turner I'll handle it I responded quietly all right that's it Myers commanded turning to the rest of the group back to work we've done all we can hear he turned to Commander Carlson once she settled find her a birth away
from the bridge and reach out to Mars station for the recovery of Commander Harrison's body Understood sir Carlson replied walking off Meers then addressed Alice looks like you're stepping up you're my new number one until further notice but just Bridge duties accordingly the mission's likely scrapped yes sir Alice acknowledged we've wrapped up our initial inquiry Myers continued we need to go over our findings in my quarters ASAP got it sir Alice affirmed she then turned to me her expression softening I'm sorry Jack you didn't deserve any of This thanks Commander I said my voice heavy
with exhaustion I headed back to my quarters Gathering Camila's belongings I packed them into her duffel bag wanting her as far from me as possible security later retrieved her things I didn't ask where they were taking them and I didn't care I flipped the mattress and replaced the soiled bedding tossing the old Linens into the laundry chute with restricted access to my quarters I sat down at the computer Console and filled out the divorce request since our marriage fell under Jag jurisdiction the divorce process also involved them there were no children and our incomes were
similar so it was a straightforward split she kept her stuff and I kept mine after submitting the request I awaited confirmation knowing it would be processed within 24 hours two CIA agents from Hans base reached out to me for questioning hinting at a vengeful motive Behind the events thankfully the Jag officer present during the interrogation ensured I didn't say anything self-incriminating the following day I avoided the crew and kept to myself trying to stay out of the gossip Mill I spent most of the time in my Quarters on edge then unexpectedly Myers and Alice showed
up Lieutenant Myers began taking a seat as Alice joined him Mars station recovered Commander Harrison's body and They Confiscated the illegal firearm he had on him the CIA report confirms your actions as self-defense he paused then added Commander Harrison's tracker shows he was present at both sabotaged weapon stations just before Lieutenant Anderson noticed the calibration errors and the DNA from the blood matches his Alice added confirming he was responsible for the sabotage your wife claimed she knew nothing Myers clarified but shek been Detained as an accessory to Harrison's plot against you she could face conspiracy
charges when we returned to Earth so we're heading back back to Earth I asked trying to process everything Myers nodded the mission's on hold for now Jack wek face a board of inquiry when we return can I resume Duty I asked after a moment of consideration Myers nodded Houston agreed after some persuasion we down two officers and we need you on bridge Duty can you handle Gunner Ops yes sir I affirmed good Myers replied we launch in 12 hours make sure you're rested and ready thank you sir I said relieved may I speak with my
wife I need some answers Myers gave me a searching look are you sure about this Jack absolutely I confirmed after a brief pause he consented all right jack but Commander Powell will accompany you do you agree Alice yes sir Alice confirmed very well Myers concluded now get to Work and rest up it's time to earn that paycheck yes sir I responded as he left Alice turned to me ready Lieutenant she asked I nodded yes ma'am we exited together and made our way to the brig on the lower deck as we walked Alice broke the silence
Captain Myers wanted me to tell you he commended you for what I asked genuinely surprised he believes your action saved lives if Harrison had fired that weapon in the airlock things could have been much worse damn I Muttered Alice grinned congrats she said we reached the brig and checked in with the security officer on duty inside we approached a small cell where Camila sat on the bed wearing an orange jumpsuit what up Lieutenant she sneered as I entered so now it's just lieutenant not even Jack or Lieutenant Turner I remarked my voice cold fine prisoner
I'm going to ask you a few questions and then I'll leave you alone go ahead Lieutenant she replied staring straight Ahead without acknowledging me how long were you involved with Harrison since sophomore year at the Academy she admitted her voice flat he was my counselor I know that much I said where did it start you really want to know she challenged turning to face me for the first time yeah I do I affirmed standing firm fine I failed the test and he helped me cheat after that I owed him so I entertained him I enjoyed
it so it kept happening she explained Nonchalantly so you cheated with him and betrayed me is that it I asked feeling the bile rise in my throat yes she confessed her tone laced with Venom you don't know how many times I thought of him when I was with you and you know what I liked it she leaned forward her eyes gleaming with cruelty and here's something else you never measured up he's been to places you could never reach I clenched my fists but forced myself to remain calm did you ever love Me or was it
all a lie I loved you she said her voice softening for a moment but I loved being with him too it was just sex nothing more you knew about his plans once we boarded didn't you I asked yeah I knew she admitted he staggered the shifts so we wouldn't see each other much but you surprised Us by talking to me so we waited until Mars and you knew about the weapon sabotage I knew he was up to something but not the specifics she confessed I didn't think he'd go That far and my supposed self-destruction that
was part of the plan too wasn't it she Shrugged it was his idea but you went along with it you never stopped him I pressed no I didn't she admitted her voice quieter now and I'm sorry I never thought he'd actually go through with it well he failed and now you're going to prison was it worth it I asked my voice Hollow it doesn't matter she said shrugging I was proud of you how you handled the ship I did love You but now I regret ever meeting you I turned to leave but before I could
step out she called my name Jack she said softly I didn't look back instead I raised my middle finger and walked out Upon returning to Earth Camila was incarcerated in a federal prison while the investigation continued the court Marshal was gruelling with the crew myself Myers and Alice testifying extensively over several days my divorce was finalized in early April with the Jag officer handling the remaining paperwork on Friday April 18th we assembled in the hearing room Myers Alice and I sat together as Camila entered in chains flanked by armed guards the council members adorned in
their decorated uniforms took their seats Admiral Bryant the head of the council began the proceedings please sit he said clarifying that this was a board of inquiry not a trial the goal was to uncover what happened and prevent future Incidents after summarizing the events of the 's Mission Admiral Bryant condemned Commander Harrison for putting personal agendas above Duty endangering the crew and damaging the ship he then turned to me senior Lieutenant Jackson Turner he said addressing me formally I sat up straighter your actions aboard the USS Liberty potentially saved lives and prevented further sabotage in
recognition of your diligence and bravery we are awarding you the Distinguished service medal he paused before continuing Additionally you have been assigned to the advanced operations school for training starting June 1st thank you sir I said trying to absorb the weight of the moment the Admiral then turned his attention to Meers Captain Myers the council acknowledges your efforts under unprecedented circumstances however as the ship's Captain you bear ultimate responsibility for its operations your command of the USS Liberty will remain but an entry will be noted on your record a new crew will be assigned following
the ship's modernization understood Admiral Myers responded his expression serious Lieutenant Powell will be promoted to Commander and take over as your first officer the Admiral concluded thank you sir Meers said finally the Admiral turned to ca senior Lieutenant Camila Avery he addressed her using her maiden name now that the Divorce was finalized Camila stood her face pale her hands Shackled this board is deeply disappointed in your conduct the Admiral continued not only did you disgrace your ex-husband but you tarnished your uniform and put the entire crew at risk your actions along with Commander Harrison's have
led us to reassess your entire record Commander Harrison's intervention helped you pass a critical test at the Academy attest that without His help you would have failed while your piloting record is commendable it is clear that you should never have been commissioned the Admiral's voice hardened your liaison with Harrison resulted in tragedy you knew of his plot and did nothing to stop it you will be dishonorably discharged demoted to E1 and your pay will be reduced effective immediately he signaled to the guards who escorted Camila out as she passed by tears streaming down her face
she looked At me Jack please she began but I cut her off it's Lieutenant Turner to you I snapped her tears flowed freely now request to address you as Lieutenant she asked her voice trembling request denied I said coldly remove her from my sight the guards complied and Camila's sobs faded as they led her away her words held no meaning for me anymore with the strike of a gavel the council session was adjourned we stood as the council members left the room once they Were gone Myers turned to me well that wasn't too bad he
remarked how about a drink I could use one I agreed feeling the weight of the ordeal lifting slightly I think it went well Alice chimed in Count Me In the three of us left the hearing room and headed to the officer Club where we could finally toast to a Bittersweet Victory 17 months later I stood at the airlock of Galileo station orbiting Mars dark side as I stare out At the stars I reflected on how far I'd come Camila's Court Marshal had concluded a month before I started the advanced spacecraft Management program in Florida the
prosecution had asked me to testify which I did did though recalling those dark days aboard the Liberty was unpleasant Camila had changed at her Court Marshal she wore a crewman's uniform stripped of her wings she looked frail and broken the court found her guilty of being an accessory To my attempted murder but acquitted her of conspiracy she was sentenced to 10 years of hard labor and a dishonorable discharge after graduating from the advanced operations school I was promoted to Lieutenant Commander and received orders to Galileo station a secluded out post orbiting Mars upon my arrival
I was greeted by Captain Allen an attractive officer who briefed me on the situation ready to see your new home For the next few years she asked leading me to the observation deck she pressed a button revealing the massive Advanced spacecraft the USS Enterprise this will be your domain as my operations officer ready for the adventure she asked her eyes gleaming I couldn't help but smile absolutely Captain good we launch in 15 days she said shaking my hand welcome aboard Commander as I admired the sight of the USS Enterprise the name and blazing on its
side I Smiled it was time for another chapter [Music] [Music]