Episode 20 Ground Zero / Escape Clause

In this final episode the author shares insights concerning the work and what some of the readers have said.  This episode also contains the drawing for the manuscript raffle and the author's  interview on Podioracket.com

Scott Anderson rejoins the crew for a much deserved selebration, but with bitter-sweet overtones. Following the conclusion of the story, we see a preview of Sally and Ian's next adventure.

With great care and great effort, Sally, Rachel, and Ian must work together to implement Rachel's plan to break Scott's conditioning. It is a gamble of life and death and if they fail, they will not get another chance.

Vladimir experiences a fitting and creative punishment at the hands of his captain. Meanwhile, what seemed like a small detail to Sally and Rachel previously turns out to provide a vital clue to Scott's ultimate treatment.

The shadow of Vlad's act of genocide drops a dark cloud over the ship which neither Sally nor Ian can easily get past on their own. While preparing to put this event behind them, they also must face some unexpected reactions from many Earth governments.

As the hours count down for their departure from New Ontario, Vladimir spends some quality time with his daughter, but even she is not to know the details of his plans. But when the final hour strikes, all hell breaks loose as Jackie's prophesy is revealed.

Vladimir continues to plan unknown mischief, but now the stakes are higher. On a visit home, Sally sees that Jackie has painted an amazingly detailed image of the Kelthy and New Ontario. But does this image predict the future? If so, disaster may waiting.

The departure of the Masters leaves the crew exhausted and facing personal demons that had previously been kept at bay. To make matters more interesting, Poole's new treatment plan for Scott turns out to be a shocking surprise for Sally.

Ian's discussion with Obiiilion grows heated when he discovers the nature of her interest in Scott. At the same time Sally and Daaarrrm face off in a deadly duel. Earth's first contact with New Ontario is concluded with an armed conflict.

On this first contact with an alien culture, Sally, Vlad, and Ian find themselves face to face with unwelcome guests. Every word and every gesture is a veiled threat and gradually the Masters' plans become revealed. On top of this, Vlad may have yet more tricks up his sleeve.