TCM Issue 11 by Richard Miles

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Welcome to the eleventh issue of Trekkie Central Magazine, Welcome to the eleventh issue of TCM, Featured in this issue we have three reviews of all Star Trek Odyssey, Helena Chronicles and Federation One episodes by Alex Matthews. Also we have numerous interviews with the stars of the shows. We have interviews with Barbara Clifford; Gina Devettori; Jacques Freydont; Aaron Leddick; David Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Neill; JT Tepnapa and Beau Williams. Also back this issue is the news section that will bring you up to date with all the latest happenings in the Trek fan film universe. Finally I have two pieces of exciting news for you, firstly Trekkie Central Magazine now has its own domain name, you can now reach our website by simply typing in trekkiecentralmagazine.com and secondly we also now have our own email address, so if you have any suggestions, comments or queries you can now contact us at admin@trekkiecentralmagazine.com We all hope you enjoy the magazine Live Long and Prosper Richard Editor Special Thanks: Contributors: Alex Matthews and Richard Miles Interviewees: Barbara Clifford; Gina Devettori; Jacques Freydont; Aaron Leddick; David Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Neill; JT Tepnapa and Beau Williams. Production Companies: Hidden Frontier Productions; Intrepid Productions; Farragut Films; Neo FX. Trekkie Central Staff: Writers: Heather Ashleigh; Jennifer Cole; Gerri Donaldson; Josh Edelglass; Beo Fraser; Danny Lavery; Gustavo Leao; Alex Matthews; Richard Miles; Eugenia Stoypra; Michael Struck; Sean-Paul Teeling; Tim Vining and John Whiting. Head Writers: Gerri Donaldson; Alex Matthews; Richard Miles and Eugenia Stoypra. Graphics Artist and Front Cover: Richard Miles Creative Consultants: Michael Hudson and Rick Pike. Assistant Editors: Heather Ashleigh and Alex Matthews Editor: Richard Miles Trekkie Central Magazine and Supplemental is produced for fans by fans. This is a free to download and view online magazine, from which no profit is made in anyway. If you see this magazine on sale anywhere please do not purchase it as this will jeopardise feature issue of this magazine. If you do find it on sale please inform us immediately by emailing us at admin@trekkiecentralmagazine.com and marking the inbox as fraudulent magazine in the subject box. Many Thanks

Inquisition

Captains Table

Captains Log

Coming Soon

Beau Williams Interview

David Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Neill Interview

Star Trek Odyssey Review By Alex Matthews

Barbara Clifford Interview

Gina Devettori Interview

Star Trek The Helena Chronicles Review By Alex Matthews 29 JT Tepnapa Interview

Aaron Leddick Interview

Jacques Freydont Interview

Star Trek Federation One Review By Alex Matthews 41

THIS ISSUE WE PUT HIDDEN FRONTIER’S ANDREW FOSTER UNDER THE SPOTLIGHT IN ‘INQISITION’.

1. What is your name? Andrew George Matthew Gregory Foster 2. What was the last book you read? Spanish For Dummies 3. Is the glass half full or half empty? Its fullness has been diminished towards a half-empty state 4. What is your favourite colour? Green 5. Sci-Fi or Chick Flicks? Sci-fi 6. Picard or Kirk and why? Picard (a man of passion and exploration) as opposed to Kirk (a bit too bold and horny for my liking) 7. What question have you always wanted to be asked? “Your place or mine” 8. When was the last time you were star struck? 1977 9. Who was it that made you star struck? [Standing in front of] the entire original cast of “Star Trek” [for the first time] 10. What is the natural colour of water? The only colour I see is the colour of the container as water is clear 11. Family Guy or The Simpsons? The Simpsons 12. Quark or Odo? Quark, he’s usually good at getting what he wants/needs 13. The original Enterprise or The Enterprise D? Enterprise-D (its so spacious!) 14. Football or Baseball? Football 15. Who would you most like to meet and why? John Williams, for direction in writing music for the screen and television

The second episode of Hidden Frontiers Star Trek Federation One has been released. This episode follows on from Unity and further develops the characters and the storyline. To download this episode visit the Hidden Frontier website at www.hiddenfrontier.com

The season finale of Star Trek Odyssey has been released. The story looks at a one of the client citizens of the Archein Empire and the lengths they will go to, to secure the favour of their masters. To download this episode visit the Hidden Frontier website at www.hiddenfrontier.com

The season finale of Star Trek Helena Chronicles has been released. This episode follows on from the second episode and has some exciting twists. To download this episode visit the Hidden Frontier website at www.hiddenfrontier.com

STAR TREK PHASE 2 HAVE RELEASED BLOOD AND FIRE PART 1 The people behind Star Trek Phase 2 have recently released the much anticipated Blood and Fire. The episode written by David Gerrold brings back Kirk’s nephew Peter Kirk and his homosexual relationship. To view this episode online visit their website at www.startrekphase2.com

Farragut Films have released the first of their ‘Crew Logs’ episodes. A Rock and a Hard Place sees Captain Carter go on an away mission with an old flame. To download this episode go to the Starship Farragut website at www.starshipfarragut.com

Star Trek have made the following announcement about recent cast amendments. Star Trek: Phase II announces that J.G. Hertzler has been cast in the role of former tutor K'Sia for the upcoming episode "Kitumba." "Kitumba" is based on the story treatment developed by Star Trek producer/director/writer John Meredyth Lucas for the unrealized Star Trek: Phase II series in the late 1970's. The Klingon-centric episode will be a closer look at the Klingon Empire during the original series era. Although the original story treatment calls for a uniquely different government and history for Klingons, Cawley says that particular attention will be paid to keeping the Klingon back-story in line with what we have come to know in subsequent Trek installments. Hertzler is best known to Star Trek fans for his role as a Klingon warrior, General, and ultimately Chancellor Martok on Star Trek: Deep Space Nine, as well as his appearances a Star Trek conventions with friend Robert O'Reilly, who played Klingon Chancellor Gowron on DS9. Hertzler was originally to appear as Harry Mudd in the Star Trek: Phase II (New Voyages) episode, "The Sky Above, The Mudd Below." "That episode has been put on the back-burner for now," commented Senior Executive Producer James Cawley when asked about Hertzler's casting, "but, when this role came up, I immediately thought of J.G. and decided to give him a call - he got back with me and confirmed his availability," concluded Cawley. "Kitumba" is set to go before the cameras this June.

The second ‘Crew Log’ has been filmed and aired to a private audience and is due to be released soon. 9

LOST FRONTIER CANCELLED Darker Projects Audio series Star Trek Lost Frontier has been cancelled due to cut backs.

‘After attending a formal party in her honour, Jessica Kingsley reflects on the reason why she was assigned as the Federation Ambassador to Tahn'Los. She remembers her initial visit to the planet and the first time she met several key members of the planetary government, and the difficult situation they faced.’ Star Trek Diplomatic Relations have recently released a new episode.

News that has been taken from the Darker Projects forums has Eric Busby stating that Lost Frontier has run its course and been cancelled.

The episode entitled ‘Agrement’ follows on from their first episode. To download this episode visit their website at http://www.startrekdiplomaticrelations.com/ep_s01e02.htm

This is sad news indeed.

HIDDEN FRONTIER ANNOUNCE NEW AUDIO SERIES Hidden Frontier Productions have announced a new audio series. Henglaar MD will focus on Doctor Henglaar from Hidden Frontier with his niece in a supporting role.

EXCELSIOR EPISODE RELEASED

The pilot episode will focus on Henglaar coming to terms with his loss of Elbrey in the finale of Hidden Frontier as well as introduce us to his new job.

The audio series Starship Excelsior have released a new episode. The episode entitled ‘The Investigation’ is available to download at their website http://www.starshipexcelsior.com/epis epis.php

The conventions page makes its return this issue. We have listed below February, March and Aprils issues that we know of. Next issue we will have a more comprehensive list.

Region Five & RadCon February 13, 2009 at 5pm to February 15, 2009 at 12pm – Best Western Pasco Inn & Suites

TREK VALENTINE'S SOCIAL AND VIDEO MIXER! February 14, 2009 at 3pm – RIPLEY GRIER STUDIOS, NEW YORK CITY

Farpoint February 15, 2009 at 6pm to February 17, 2009 at 6pm – Crowne Plaza Hotel, Timonium MD

Australian Star Trek fan club - Star Trek Monopoly series February 22, 2009 at 1pm – SA Writer's Centre

Australian Star Trek fan club - 1st meeting for 2009 February 22, 2009 from 3pm to 7pm – South Australian Writers Centre

Australian Star Trek fan club open day 2009 February 22, 2009 at 3:30pm – South Australian Writer's Centre

CoastCon XXXII March 20, 2009 at 12pm to March 22, 2009 at 4:30pm – Mississippi Gulf Coast Coliseum

Leap Back 2009 - Quantum Leap convention featuring Scott Bakula March 27, 2009 at 12pm to March 29, 2009 at 8pm – Beverly Garland Holiday Inn

Venom Wars 6 April 17, 2009 to April 19, 2009 – Choudrant, Louisiana

Starfest April 17, 2009 at 12pm – Denver Marriott DTC

To have your convention included above please feel free to contact us at the following email address: admin@trekkiecentralmagazine.com Please remember to include all your details.

HERE TCM TALKS WITH BEAU WILLIAMS ABOUT HIS EXPERIENCES DURING THE FIRST SEASON OF THE HELENA CHRONICLES. TCM: How do you see Artim as a person? BW: I would put Artim in the “Golden Boy” category. Always doing what he feels is right and just. He is very loyal to his friends both on Odyssey and Helena, and it is those friendships that drive his decision to go against Starfleet. TCM: What inspires him? BW: Artim is inspired by the stars. He is an explorer at heart and he loves his job. I also like to think that the memory of his old mentor, Naros, inspires him as well. All that Naros knew and was, I think Artim really wants to become and understand. TCM: How you see their relationships with others? BW: Artim can be a bit awkward when it comes to talking to the ladies. I like to think he has had his good share of experience, yet still is a little intimidated. Artim is a nice guy and generally isn’t out to get anything from them ;) As for friends, as I stated he is very loyal to those he is close to. Artim has made many friends on Helena, yet I don’t think he wants to get to know Rockney, he’s weird.

TCM: What do you bring to your performance to make Artim come to life? BW: I bring a good positive attitude every time I get on set. Artim is generally a positive guy, and I think by myself being excited and positive to be there, it will come out in the character. TCM: What are your thoughts on the various ongoing storylines? BW: I love Odyssey. I think the story is as epic as the tale it is based on. I love the characters, and the acting that is given by its cast. Though, I cannot comment on federation one, I have yet to watch it I really like Helena as well. I think it is a wonderful counterpart to Odyssey and though I might be a little biased, I really dig the whole renegade storyline, and especially Artim’s part in it. TCM: What do you do to prepare for a scene? BW: Well I receive the script and read through it. Then I go back to my lines and try to figure out why Artim is saying or doing whatever it is he is doing. I usually come up with a couple different motivations for the scenes and try to work it out in different angles. I then pick which one I like most. After that, I talk to my director to figure his/her interpretation of the scene. I enjoy working with the directors, and often our interpretations match up pretty well.

TCM: Compared to the direction your character took in Hidden Frontier, how would you like to see them change and evolve of the course of this series? BW: I was unhappy with Artim’s role in HF. He didn’t seem to grow that much, and I didn’t feel that any of his appearances really displayed any challenging scenes. I believe this is due to the fact that he was a guest character rather than one of the names in the opening credits. I was overjoyed to get the call for Helena because I think that this time Artim will prove his worth many times over. I mean after seven years as an ensign now he has been promoted. And his character is showing signs of attitude and backbone. TCM: If you weren't playing Artim, which Helena character would you like to portray? BW: Hmmm… I really can’t see any other actor in the place of the current ones. They do such a splendid job; I can’t imagine myself in the role instead of them. TCM: Do you focus just on your series, or do you keep updated with the storylines in your series' sister shows? BW: Seems to me this question should have been before question #5 O.O Hehe, I keep up with Odyssey. I need to go watch some Federation One. TCM: How does this character differ from your other recognised character, Daagad, of Odyssey? BW: The characters are very different. My character on Odyssey is very militaristic. He enjoys doing the bidding of his general, and will even kill with a smile. Artim while in a militarily structured organization, is not so serious and enjoys the company of his comrades. TCM: Do you enjoy playing one character over the other? BW: I enjoy being able to do the dirty work of my superiors, and doing it well. That makes my Archein very fun to play. Artim has his own, “yes sir” charm. I couldn’t say I like one more than the other, but I do enjoy getting in the Archein makeup, I can barely recognize myself, and it is awesome. TCM: How did you get involved with Hidden Frontier? BW: Through a casting magazine called “Back Stage West”. An add was in it for someone meeting my description, and I answered the call at age 13. This was for the original series featuring the Angeles. I really enjoyed working with Areakt, and I suppose they liked me well enough to call me back later for HF. I don’t get to do much acting as of late, but I still and will always answer the call to come be a part of any Areakt production. TCM: What is your own experience with 'canon' Star Trek? BW: When I was growing up I would watch TNG not really knowing what it was. When I was a little older I got really into it with Voyager. I would never call myself a trekkie, but I do enjoy Star Trek very much and Voyager will always be close to my heart.~

DAVID O’NEILL TALKS DIRECTLY WITH TCM ABOUT HIS NEW CHARACTER SELEK AND WHAT HE HOPES FOR THE FUTURE TCM: How do you see Selek as a person? DO: Right now, we know little of Selek as a Vulcan, however I would like him to be a more unconventional one. That he’s been around humans so long that he lets slip in some emotion. TCM: What inspires him? DO: Oddly, I think he has faith that the humans he works with are more logical than his fellow Vulcans think. TCM: How you see their relationships with others? DO: Actually, I think he has a very usual relationship with all his fellow officers, and respects McCabe very much. TCM: What do you bring to your performance to make Selek come to life? DO: I think I bring a history of Star Trek with me, my years of following the shows, reading the books. Plus, I’m a person who likes the odd, the unconventional; enjoying satire and nonsequitur jokes. And I kinda, think you'll see that in my performance.

TCM: What are your thoughts on the various ongoing storylines? DO: I love the serialized storytelling, and how clever Rob and the writes have been to connect everything together. And even though Hidden Frontier’s last three seasons were more serialized than the previous four, the writers were able to tie many things together. With Odyssey, The Helena Chronicles, Federation One, Orphans of War and Operation Beta Shield all these storylines are connected from the start. And for someone who loved DS9, I appreciate the effort to keep all the shows connected. TCM: What do you do to prepare for a scene? DO: Tough question, as I’ve never trained to be one. However, I approach it by reviewing my fellow actors, especially Sharon and JayTee. When I work them, I try to read their performances and try to use what I see in my roles as Vito on Odyssey and Selek on Federation One. TCM: How would you like Selek to change and evolve over the course of the series? DO: As I mentioned earlier, I think Selek is more different than other Vulcans and would like to see him become that way as the show progresses. Plus, I would like to see him actually doing something, instead of sitting in a chair.

TCM: If you weren't playing Selek, which Federation-One character would you like to portray? DO: Kaart, as he is one the most complex characters on the show. There are certain depths to Kaart we’ve yet to see, but he’s one character that I find is very interesting. He’s dark and you’re never really sure where his alliances lay. TCM: What draws you to this character? DO: I think what draws me to Selek is his understanding of human dynamics. And I sort of want to play him that way, less Vulcan you know? TCM: Do you focus just on your series, or do you keep updated with the story-lines in your series' sister shows? DO: As one the producers and directors of the show, I have to keep an eye on all these shows. So I have intimate knowledge of all the shows and their story-lines. TCM: You are primarily known for being involved in production and direction – why the change to in front of the camera? DO: Selek was a role that Rob thought I should play. And after reading the script, I thought it was big enough to put me in front of the camera, but small enough for me to continue my behind the scenes work. TCM: Do you enjoy playing one field over the other? DO: I enjoy directing a lot, almost to point where I’ve gotten gone through a few text books on the craft of it. I’ve also considered taking an acting class so I can understand them better when I direct. TCM: How did you get involved with Hidden Frontier? DO: Like most, I stumbled upon it after reading an article about in Variety in 2005. In February 2006, HF had its first convention, I went to it, and then went (with others) who were invited back to watch filming begin on the seventh season of the show. Since I lived close by, I kept coming back to each shoot and, as they say, the rest is history. TCM: What is your own experience with 'canon' Star Trek? DO: I’m not sure I understand the question, BUT when it comes to canon of Star Trek, I’m not much of a stickler. That being said, if you make obvious blunders (much like what Enterprise did week in and week out) and take a blasé attitude about it, then I take issue with it. To me, it was fairly obvious that Enterprise was a series set in parallel timeline, ala Back to the Future II way, and had the creative team and Paramount decided to admit that, maybe the show would’ve lasted longer and maybe the fans would’ve not taken such issues with way it did violate canon. Now, years later, the new Star Trek film is taking the parallel timeline more serious. And while some will say that is sloppy writing, I find it interesting, and something that needed to be done to save a dying franchise. ~ 16

HERE ALEX MATTHEWS TAKES A LOOK BACK AT THE FIRST SEASON OF HIDDEN FRONTIERS PRODUCTION STAR TREK ODYSSEY. As the first spin-off show of the successful Hidden Frontier web-series, Star Trek: Odyssey has its fair share of pros and cons, before it even began. It had seven years of back history to start with, which included a plethora of characters it could use in it's launching pad of a pilot episode, “Iliad”, but it also had to meet the expectations of the fans that have been following it's predecessor. When promotion began on the series, heavy emphasis was placed on the fact that Ro Nevin, one of the junior characters in Hidden Frontier who was the focus of a series-spanning arc concerning his emotional development and acceptance of self, was going to be the driving force for the new show. It would be set on a brand-new starship, and only scant details about the rest of the cast were released, which did not include anything about their characters. This was released much closer to the airing date, when the website released production stills from the filming of the pilot. All four of the main actors that were announced were known to HF fans from various roles they had portrayed during the run of the series, so instead of bringing in completely fresh faces, viewers would have an idea of what those actors could bring to their new roles.

As time grew towards the release date of “Iliad”, more images and teasers were released, detailing just who the announced actors would be playing, as well as more details about the show. One important detail released that caused quite a bit of speculation was that the captain and first officer of the Odyssey, the starship that acts as the show's name sake, would not be main cast characters, and did not appear on the opening title credits that were released as a teaser. The trailer, launched at around the same time as the credits, showed that Ro would be acting in some kind of command role during a fierce battle, and that a new threat, the Archeins, were attacking Romulan forces via an artificial wormhole. All this lead to a great amount of rumours and general speculation before the first episode was finally released. This was followed by a blitz of promotional images, that cemented that a Romulan officer (played by Michelle Laurent) called T'Lorra, would be serving in some kind of capacity on the Odyssey, as well as introducing the missing senior officers, Captain T'Lek, Commander Steven Conner, and a Bolian Chief Engineer. They also showed that Julia Morizawa (known for portraying Lt. S'Tal) would be playing Lieutenant Maya Stadi, the sister of the previous conn officer aboard Voyager, as well as Matthew Montgomery (who portrayed Captain Nej'ta) as Dr. Owen Vaughan, and Tim Foutch (who portrayed Pelas) as Ensign Josh Gillen. But there were still many unanswered questions that only watching “Iliad” would answer...

Episode 1x01: Iliad

...and answer them it did. “Iliad” not only reintroduces us to several familiar faces, such as Ro Nevin, his husband Corey Aster, and their sector commander, Admiral Knapp, but also allows us to meet several new characters, all of whom would come to play vital roles throughout the episode. The Archein are identified as a powerful alien race that reside in the Andromeda Galaxy, who are facing some kind of threat that is slowly causing their home territory to undergo gravitational collapse. In order to survive, they are using wormhole technology to explore and colonise the neighbouring Milky Way. But their leader is unaware that her daughter, ruling in her proxy, is aggressively taking Romulan space, instead of the agreed uninhabited star systems. The Romulans, unable to deal with the sheer mass and power of the invading Archein fleet, and their control over a wormhole, reluctantly turn to the Federation for help, who after investigating the wormhole for themselves, devise a plan. Using the surviving hyperdimensional technology from the tetrahedrons that had once been the mystery of the Briar Patch, they will equip two ships with experimental quantum slipstream technology. The Starfleet ship, the Allegiance-class USS Odyssey, will accompany General Korg commanding the Negh'var-class vessel IKS R'Kagh, on a mission to destroy the Archein's wormhole generator. Ro and Aster, as experts on slipstream and the tetrahedrons, are assigned as mission specialists to the Odyssey and R'Kagh respectively, which ruins their honeymoon plans. The Odyssey is also equipped with a Romulan cloaking device in order to fulfil the mission parameters, and assigned a Romulan observer, SubCommander T'Lorra, to operate it.

The journey to Andromeda takes two weeks via slipstream, and T'Lorra and Ro soon clash over the command structure aboard ship, since her rank is technically superior to his, but she is assigned to report to him. But their differences must soon be put aside when the mission goes awry – during their attempt to sabotage the generator, their bomb is prematurely destroyed and the R'Kagh is discovered. The Klingon ship loses its slipstream capability, and is forced to flee through the active wormhole back to Romulan space, where it is caught in between a massive fight between Allied and Archein forces. Just before the ship is destroyed, Aster is caught in the explosion of a console, as General Korg orders an evacuation. The Odyssey sacfrices its own slipstream core to successfully destroy the generator, trapping themselves in Andromeda among the angered Archein, and to complicate matters further, both the Captain and Executive Officer are killed during the battle, alongside a large number of the crew. Ro is left as the highest ranking officer, alongside security chief Lieutenant Maya Stadi, and is forced to take command of the ship, and manages to get them to safety. During their escape, they see for themselves the gravitational anomalies that are ripping through Andromeda, and use them to hide from their attackers until T'Lorra repairs the cloaking device. As they head off to make repairs, and the dawning realisation of their being stuck millions of light years from home sinks in, Ro appoints T'Lorra as his XO, and makes Gillen acting Chief Engineer. Stadi and Ro discuss just how much they can trust T'Lorra, but Ro knows they have little choice, as it may be a long time before any rescue, if at all, comes for them. “Iliad” serves its purpose, launching the new series with a fair mix of character development, intrigue and action. The viewer is left uncertain as to the fate of Corey Aster, a plot thread that would be developed by the soon-tobe-released sister show, The Helena Chronicles. We are given a good grounding in all the new characters, especially the 'villains' the Archein, who are already fleshed out beyond simply being 'the bad guys'. The fact that Seram, daughter the ruler of Archein society, is misleading her mother over the fact that they are invading the territory of another, against her express wishes, is highlighted very early, as is her adversarial relationship with General Morrigu, commander of the military. Her relationship with her servant Caecus is also explored very early, and the apparent disapproval Morrigu has for it, and how it seems to goes beyond the simple caste difference. All these characters are shown to be multi layered in their first appearance, and shows the quality of both the writing as well as the acting. The actors also attack their roles with relish, be it Sharon Savene making Seram come across as barely

sane, Michelle having T'Lorra quickly take the position of Head Bitch, while Julia shows that being a telepath can be funny and annoying at the same time. Matthew shows us that despite being a Starfleet officer, Dr. Vaughan may have more to him than meets the eye, while Tim is delightful as the nervous Ensign Gillen, who like Ro, is thrust into a position of authority with no preparation. The idea behind the series is a reinvention of both the Voyager series, as well as a futuristic take on the Greek tale of “The Iliad”, which details the journey King Odysseus had to undertake to get home after the final battle of Troy. The script contains various references, such as the type of deep-space probe used by Starfleet to gain intel being christened the Iliad. There is however some drawbacks, and that comes with the fact that it is a spinoff. Although a new viewer could sit down and enjoy this, they may find it slightly confusing when some of the plot links back to the Hidden Frontier series. Unless the viewer is familiar with the later plotlines of the mother series, they may not understand the references to hyperdimensional physics and the tetrahedrons, which are crucial to explain how it is that the slipstream technology was stabilised for continued use. The brief appearance of Commander Robin Lefler, used mainly for comedic effect, as she is interrupting Ro and Aster's plan for a last minute assignation, would fall flat on its face with people not really familiar with her relationship with the two characters. The whole relationship between the two is also underappreciated by new fans – they would not realise the tragedy of their separation so soon after they finally got together.

Episode 1x02: The Wine Dark Sea One of the main points of contention with Star Trek: Voyager was the massive use of the cosmic 'reset switch', such as when the ship suffers massive damage in one episode, but is patched up in perfect working order for the following week. “The Wine Dark Sea” makes a point of addressing this, as the Odyssey, with its reserves of antimatter running low after their initial sojourn to Andromeda, desperately tries to replenish itself as well as cope with the large amount of damage they have sustained during their continuing skirmishes with Archein cruisers. Despite Stadi's recommendation, Ro follows T'Lorra's suggestion to raid a nearby Archein supply station, but the mission goes awry almost straight away when the away team trips an alarm, and activates planetary defences. The resulting security measures nearly destroy the Odyssey before she jumps to warp, but not before one of the away team members, a junior engineer, is mortally wounded, resulting in a tough ethical dilemma for Ro, and forcing him to once again step up to his new role as starship commander. Working together with his senior officers, left with little choice due to their antimatter situation, Ro devises a plan that turns the planetary defences against the newly arrived Archein battle group, allowing the Odyssey to grab the much needed antimatter, and once again use their cloaking device to evade their attackers. With their situation improving, Ro finally begins to accept his new role on the ship, by taking his place both in the ready room, as well as in the captain's chair.

Episode 2 not only had to deliver on the follow-up of the action packed premiere, but also had to introduce a new actor in the role of Ro Nevin. Bobby Rice, who played the character from season 6 of Hidden Frontier, stepped down to focus on other pursuits, and Brandon McConnell stepped into some very large shoes... and proved his ability straight away with this storyline that involves tough decisions that could make or break Ro's captaincy. The acting captain not only must deal with the failing systems of the ship, continuous Archein attacks and his own doubts, but also the petty bickering that carries on between T'Lorra and Stadi, two very strong and stubborn women who are more alike than they would care to admit. Brandon definitely brings his own unique energy to the role, and the raw emotion and conflict Ro is feeling come across easily to the viewer, especially in the last few seconds of the opening teaser, when a fellow Bajoran officer is mortally wounded. This haunts him throughout the episode, until he is forced to admit defeat, and that the young lieutenant is beyond saving. Both Michelle and Julia bring a zest and enjoyment to their roles, especially to the fractious relationship their characters have, while Matt Montgomery brings an natural empathy to his role as Vaughan, as well as a steel edge when making sure everyone knows just whose Sickbay it is. Tim Foutch is a delight to watch as the nervous and overwhelmed Josh Gillen, trying his hardest to keep the ship going despite the overwhelming damage and crew losses they sustained. However, it seems strange that given they have no experience at all with Archein technology, Gillen is able to reprogram the weapons to target their own forces â&#x20AC;&#x201C; wouldn't this be more complex than simply turning them off? Is this supposed to be an indication of his expertise as a theoretical engineer? Another aspect that Odyssey continues to explore is the personality of the Archein characters we have met. Morrigu is shown to be a skilled commander, and develops a grudging respect for the Odyssey crew, after they escape him again, while Seram, who in â&#x20AC;&#x153;Iliadâ&#x20AC;? came across as merely power hungry, now shows that her hunger existed alongside a certain degree of madness. The episode lays key elements that would later be explored throughout the series, such as her relationship with Caecus, and how many find their dalliances to their distaste.

Episode 1x03: The Lotus Eaters Following up on the fact that Odyssey is being hunted by the Archein, “The Lotus Eaters” starts off with the starship narrowly escaping from another skirmish with superior forces, with Ro disregarding T'Lorra's advice to take more aggressive tactics and destroying their enemy. When Stadi picks up a distress call, it seems to prove T'Lorra's point, until the Betazoid reveals it is a Starfleet signal! Quickly changing course to intercept, they find a vessel caught in one of the gravitic anomalies that are plaguing Andromeda, and unable to use transporters, take a shuttle. The delight at detecting a friendly face is soon squashed when they realise the vessel is not Starfleet, but rather crewed by Kelvans, who have assumed humanoid form. The two scientists, Achlys and Panos, have been studying the singularity zones, which have badly damaged their ship, necessitating a rescue. But when the shuttle heads off, it is caught in the explosion and forced to make a crash landing on the nearby planet. The two Kelvan admit they use Starfleet encryption codes, sent back from a scout mission centuries ago, to evade Archein detection, as they are at war with the Empire. Finding an ally seems a good turn-out, until it is revealed that somewhere on the planet, is an Omega molecule, which causes both the shuttle systems and the systems on the orbiting Odyssey, to lock up. Ro and his away team find out that Omega is what powers Kelvan technology, despite their attempts to shield it from detection, and the only way to get the systems back online is to take out the Omega core. This is met with resistance from some of the Kelvan forces, who wish to use Omega as a last-ditch weapon against the Archein, until it is discovered that it is the use of those weapons that have created the growing problem of the singularity zones. Achlys sacrifices herself to destroy an approaching Archein attack squad to give Odyssey and her people time to evacuate and make it away, detonating the last Omega core, which greatly expands the forming zone, and destroys the planet as well.

When Odyssey was announced, and the details of the ship's mission to Andromeda were released with its initial trailer, many classic Trek fans immediately made the connection to the TOS episode “By Any Other Name”, which introduced the Kelvans as one of the inhabitants of the distant sister galaxy of the Milky Way. The Lotus Eaters delivers on that idea, by showing us just what the Kelvans that reside in Andromeda have continued to do since sending out their scouts – they have been at war with Archeina, and lost... badly. They are scattered, no longer having a world to truly call their own, having to stay on the move, and to add insult to injury, thanks to a bio-weapon, have been trapped in a constrictive humanoid form. Discovering that their attempts to enact revenge on their attackers is what has lead to the slow collapse of the space they live in seems to be the final nail in the coffin for this species. The environmental allegory of the story is clear, and handled well without being to heavy-fisted in its message, with enough of a sci-fi twist to make it subtle. But seeing the Kelvans reduced to such a ragtag bunch is rather disappointing, considering they were powerful enough in their premiere episode to immobilise the Enterprise crew, transform the majority into small blocks, and refit the vessel to pierce the outer Galactic Barrier. The group of Kelvans encountered also seemed to have become used to the emotions that their new forms granted, which suggests they had been trapped this way for quite some time. It seems, though, they may not be totally helpless, if they are still harnessing Omega as a power source, which for the Odyssey crew, is the Holy Grail, since it would allow them a way to get home, if harnessed properly. The mystery surrounding Caecus and Seram continues to deepen as well, as Caecus discovers a friend of his has been executed for crimes against the Majan, and when he looks into it, he is arrested as well. Seram shows the depth of her descent into madness when she casually stabs and tortures her supposed beloved, before healing the wound, as punishment for his disobedience – just what was he close to finding out? 21

Episode 1x04: Vile Gods

“Vile Gods” continues the Kelvan story arc started in the previous episode, by delving more into the Kelvan political situation, and addressing the allies and enemies the Odyssey crew made, when Ro is captured by Tybis, the military leader of the Kelvans and sentenced to death for his actions in destroying their Omega source. While Stadi is forced to concede T'Lorra as the next in the chain of command, Ro must deal with his own personal demons that Tybis tries to exploit, as well as visions he receives seemingly sent by the Prophets. T'Lorra gains an ally in Melantko, the civilian leader of the Kelvans, who agrees to stay the execution while the Odyssey helps in attacking Archein targets, as long as no escape attempts are made. But Stadi soon helps her release that Tybis cannot be trusted, and together, they use Odyssey to avoid escalating the body count, while T'Lorra herself keeps Tybis busy as Vaughan volunteers to infiltrate the Kelvan ship and rescue Ro. He arrives just in time to resuscitate the Bajoran after a murder attempt by a vengeful Kelvan politician, and together they also manage to secure T'Lorra's safety after she completes her own mission, leaving Tybis for dead. Although they have lost the support of their only ally so far, despite the wishes of the civilian leaders, T'Lorra, Stadi and Ro's working relationship moves further away from being so adversarial and more cooperative. But Ro is haunted by the cryptic warning he seemed to receive

from his vision experience, telling him that we will soon 'loose one'. It is the guest actors that help to make this episode, as we learn more about the political structure, or rather lack of, amongst the Kelvan people, who despite having a civilian leader, have given almost all control over to their surviving Militia. Tybis, a play on the Odysseus enemy of the Cyclops character, complete with a patch over one of his eyes, is a proud commander, but a warrior, who connects with T'Lorra's inner soldier. This allows Michelle to play a slightly softer side of her Romulan character, as she explores the idea of a romantic dalliance with the Kelvan. But this begs the question – just what do aliens trapped in a humanoid form know of that kind of physical act, and why would know about it, if their forms are simple shells, not the actual deal? We see that the Kelvans have indeed adapted well to their new form, mastering Archein control interfaces and such – but this seems a ploy to avoid constructing a new set that would be more appropriate to the Kelvans natural, multitentacled form. Oh, and don't even get me started on the visible 'skull-and-crossbones' we see on the hull of the captured Archein warship Brandon again shows the more emotional side of Ro as he undergoes a series of visions seemingly sent by the Prophets to test and warn him of what is coming. The anguish at seeing the image of his beloved husband, the horror of realising he may be losing someone vital to the Odyssey crew, and the shock of realising he may be in the presence of his Gods, all come across as real and heartfelt. But despite that, the scene sits ill with me – this is the first time the Prophets have ever come to Ro, and considering his upbringing, his sister's own failed relationship with the Prophets, and his natural leanings as a scientist, the idea of a religious experience seems a little too much for this character. Add to that the fact that only Sisko ever received spontaneous visions like is seen here, whereas others needed to consult the Orbs to receive visions. Many people have commented on the fact that there seems to be more to Vaughan then meets the eye, given how easily he has seemed to connect with T'Lorra in previous episodes, and this episode capitalises on that, when he infiltrates and rescues Ro – but it does seem somewhat easy, simply dressing in civilian attire, and walking straight onto a Kelvan shuttle – no questions asked.

Episode 1x05: Keepers of the Wind The season finale of Odyssey introduces a new Andromedan race, the Alosians, a race who after a brief misunderstanding when the Odyssey attempts to salvage the wreck of one of their ancient starships, offer their hospitality and the use of their nearby shipyard. But the seeming altruism gives way to a darker motive when they are rendered helpless when the Alosians take control of ship systems, and reluctantly inform them they are now prisoners in preparation for the arrival of Majan Seram and her armada. The crew are taken prisoner and isolated, except for Vaughan, who manages to evade capture, and place himself in position to fight back when the Archein take over the bridge. Vaughan's actions have consequences though, when Seram orders one of the crew killed in retribution for his disobedience. Meanwhile, Morrigu interrogates T'Lorra, taunting her with his seeming victory, but when ordered by Seram to kill her, does not do so, managing to circumvent the order and make it appear he is doing his Majan a favour in the process. When being escorted to Seram to provide command codes, Ro and Stadi manage to escape custody, and attempt the secure a way of the station. It seems the Archein have the upper hand until Vaughan reveals to the stunned Archein invaders that Seram has a family member aboard the Odyssey, and the Alosians, incapable of lying, confirm that Caecus, her servant and sexual plaything, is her son! Their leader Liendo, believing the turn of events is the work of his Gods, allies with the Odyssey crew, and holds the Majan hostage, allowing them time to retrieve T'Lorra from Morrigu's ship. He also buys them time to make their escape, even though this means that when the Majan is released, she will surely destroy the Alosian shipyard – which she does, as well as leaving a severely wounded and blinded Caecus behind on the Odyssey. Heading away from the coming carnage, Odyssey sets off, having again lost another ally, but having gained both a list of all Alosian worlds and colonies, as well as a detailed map of Kelvan space, showing the location of active Omega modules – a valuable piece of information. But T'Lorra tempers the senior staff's delight with her words of caution, before she visits Caecus and offers him a deal – act as a guide for them, and prevent the unnecessary deaths of countless innocent Archeins they would have to deal with in order to return home.

The first season finishes with several bangs, and quite a few shouts of stunned horror, with the revelation that Seram is Caecus's mother, something that was hinted back in episode 2, when his mother was referred to as having “lost herself” after the death of her husband – so consumed with grief, she saw her son as a substitute for her lost love, especially given their physical resemblance (as evidence by Morrigu's portrait). This is an interesting twist on the Oedipus story, where the son falls in love and marries his own mother, unaware of her identity, whereas Seram was fully cognizant of this fact, and was aware of the indecency of it, since she tries to deny it when questioned. Taking the twist even further, Seram viciously blinds Caecus, whereas according to the Greek tale, Oedipus blinded himself, and his mother/wife killed herself – will losing her son to the truth cause Seram to descend further into madness, and loose what little sanity she still retained, as a similie of death of self? Seeing Ro on the verge of a nervous breakdown when he realises he has failed gives Brandon a moment to cut loose and simply allow his character to give into the tidal wave of emotion he has been swept up in since he assumed the role. The same for Stadi, who feeling the same sense of failure of duty, beats herself up viciously, especially considering her telepathic abilities allowed her to feel she could trust the very people that betrayed them. However I was slightly disappointed by the sudden abortive announcement that she could only project to Ro because she has some degree of feelings for him – as a devote kick-ass Stadi supporter, I certainly hope they don't inflict the security chief with a case of 'captain crush'. Again, it was nice to see Vaughan assume a more action oriented role, as he single

handedly holds of the Archein attempts to take Odyssey for themselves, despite it conflicting with his training as a doctor, when his actions result in the death of a crewmate. However, I did feel that scene itself was grossly underused – back in “Vile Gods”, the Prophets told Ro he 'will lose one', and the faces of his senior staff flashed before him, yet the casualty of the Archein invasion was an science officer whose name wasn't revealed until the end credits. It could be that the Prophets warning is more far reaching, but it seems like a cheap way of making the viewer wonder just who might be up for their final cut. Saying that though, Tim Foutch was simply breathtaking to watch as Gillen, whose every scene was alongside the science officer, deals with the death of his friend, especially the empty looks on his face as he is forced to sit beside the body. His conversation with Ro in Engineering shows the depth of how much this shook up the young engineer, so perhaps this is what the Prophets meant – the loss of Gillen's innocence to such a brutal display of callousness.

For its first season, Star Trek: Odyssey did not pack any punches, capitalising on its spin-off nature, and introducing a swift moving arc of stories that not only present action and adventure, but also delve both into the main characters as well as the supporting cast of aliens that they encounter. It could have very easily fallen on its face many a time, with a sudden change in lead actor, as well as the simple fact that fans of the Hidden Frontier series may not have found the story line evoking enough for their time. Rob Caves takes the centuries old tale of Odysseus and breathes new life into it, taking advantage of the plethora of ideas that Greek mythology presents, and reinvents them or takes inspiration from them to present the tale in the format of science fiction. Each episode title of the first season takes its inspiration from the original 'Iliad', expanding on that idea, and adding in other mythological elements, such as the Cyclops, Scylla and Charybdis or the titular Lotus Eaters. He is not the first to do this idea, and it can be argued that Odyssey is not that original, as it does expand on the idea that Voyager initially started off with. But Caves has said that he wants Odyssey to correct the mistakes he believed Voyager made, and therefore he is giving viewers something that little bit different. Although many of the questions raised in this opening season have been answered, more have been raised – will the revelation about Seram and Caecus affect her standing as regent of the Empire? Has the Prophets prediction come to pass, or should Ro still be prepared to lose someone close to him? Just what does Stadi feel for Ro, and how much will his experience on the shipyards affect Gillen in the long run? Just what has Vaughan done in the past and will it have any effect in the present? What was that strange signal Stadi kept detecting onboard ship? All will be answered... in the fullness of time.~

TCM TALKS TO BARBARA CLIFFORD ABOUT LIFE DURING THE FIRST SEASON OF STAR TREK FEDERATION ONE. TCM: How do you see Margaret as a person? BC: Margaret is a person that wants to help change the universe into a better place. She wants the American dream for everyone. She wants tomorrow to be better than today and hopes that she can help accomplish this. TCM: What inspires her? BC: She is doing something to help. TCM: How you see her relationships with others? BC: She’s everyone’s mom. TCM: What do you bring to your performance to make Margaret come to life?

TCM: How would you like Margaret to change and evolve over the course of the series? BC: I’d like to see her take on more challenges, be more involved.

BC: Honesty. I try to keep my performance as honest and real as possible.

TCM: If you weren't playing Margaret, which Federation-One character would you like to portray?

TCM: What are your thoughts on the various ongoing storylines?

BC: The President! TCM: What draws you to this character?

BC: There are so many, it’s hard to keep them straight. TCM: What do you do to prepare for a scene? BC: I memorize my lines then figure out what is happening in the scene and what I need to do to get the desired outcome. I try to be as real as possible.

BC: Her sense of fairness, even though she is a politician she tries to be honest & wants those around her to be honest also. TCM: Do you focus just on your series, or do you keep updated with the story-lines in your series' sister shows? BC: Unfortunately at the moment my personal life is keeping me very busy so I am concentrating on Fed One only.

TCM: How does this character differ from previous ones you have portrayed? BC: Margaret is a politician, I’ve never played a politician before. And since I’m not a big fan of politics it’s harder for me to relate to her. TCM: Do you enjoy playing one character over the other? BC: I love acting but I think I would like playing a crazy, over-the-top person probably because I don’t normally get cast as a crazy person. TCM: How did you get involved with Hidden Frontier? BC: I sent my photo and resume for a part in a student film at Loyola. I was called for an audition and after finishing the scene, I said “is this Star Trek?, it reads like something from Star Trek.” About a month later, I was called and offered a part. I thought it was a onetime deal, I had no idea it was going to be an internet series and would become what it is today. I’m so glad I was offered a part with this wonderful group. TCM: What is your own experience with 'canon' Star Trek? BC: I was a fan of the original series. Loved Spock. I’ve gone to some of the conventions so I was able to see William Shatner, Leonard Nimoy, and Majel Roddenberry. Majel was very sweet, I had a lovely conversation with her on an escalader at one of the conventions.~

GINA DEVETTORI TALKS TO TCM ABOUT THE CHARACTER OF LT. DIAS AND HER FIRST YEAR ON THE U.S.S HELENA. TCM: How do you see Dais as a person? GD: Dais is strong and fragile at the same time. Her strength covers her weakness of not belonging and not fitting in. Putting up a front that she doesn't care hides the fact that she really does care. If she showed her true feelings, this would put her in a vulnerable place and I don't believe she is ready or evolved enough as a person to show this to herself let alone to open this aspect of herself to other people. She isn't ready to see what is inside her and only really knows how to mask her true emotions. She has so many layers covering up who she really is that she will have to peel back many aspects of herself and I don't believe she would be able to handle what is underneath her environmentally & self-made facade she has created as a barrier for herself. It would take a lot of soul searching for her to even be able to go back to a time where she felt included and loved. However, I believe she is finding a place on the Helena that is slightly starting to chip away at her ideas of what it is to be a member of a community instead of just a single entity.

TCM: How you see her relationships with others? GD: Dais is highly intelligent and knows what to say to get her way with brute strength to back up her words. She respects Faisal (in her own way) and has her own ideas about everyone else on the ship.

TCM: What inspires her?

TCM: What do you bring to your performance to make Dais come to life?

GD: Dais is inspired by what she doesn't know. She is very interested in what makes people do the things they do. What it is, that invisible force that resides in us all that compels people to act or not act in ways that we can control and cannot control.

GD: Well, I bring Gina :) I am who I am and that is who I bring. Not sure how else to answer this one. TCM: What are your thoughts on the various ongoing storylines? GD: Brian is a genius writer and his scripts are desirable to work with.

TCM: What do you do to prepare for a scene? GD: For Helena (everyone I work on seems to be a little different) I read over the entire script, then I read my part several times. I see what is going on and where I have been coming from and where I am going. I actually use Ivanna Chubbuck's ideas along with Amy Lyndon's technique and there you have it. I ask a lot of questions when I get on set so I know what is going on in each scene if I haven't figured it fully out on my own. TCM: How would you like Dais to change and evolve over the course of the series? GD: I think Dais wants to be more open but needs a reason to do so. I actually know Dais is in able hands with the creators so I will leave that up to them! TCM: If you weren't playing Dais, which Odyssey character would you like to portray? GD: I wouldn't want to play someone elses' character. I would want something new created. TCM: What draws you to this character? GD: I enjoy the storyline, script, the people I work with when I am on set, everything about it. TCM: Do you focus just on your series, or do you keep updated with the story-lines in your series' sister shows? GD: I have been focused on the Helena :) TCM: How did you get involved with Hidden Frontier? GD: They had an audition post on one of the acting websites and I sent in my info! TCM: What is your own experience with 'canon' Star Trek? GD: My sister watched the Star Trek series when we were little and if I remember correctly, she thought that Patrick Stewart was hot :)~

HERE ALEX MATTHEWS TAKES A LOOK BACK AT THE FIRST SEASON OF THE SISTER SERIES TO STAR TREK ODYSSEY, STAR TREK THE HELENA CHRONICLES. Several months after the general announcement of Star Trek: Odyssey, rumours started to fly around the Hidden Frontier forums boards about a sister series, which would pick up the story of the former Briar Patch. Eventually the new spinoff, The Helena Chronicles, was confirmed, focusing on the Starship Helena, one of the support ships during the last years of HF's run. She would be under the command of Theresa Faisel, who has served as the XO under her former commander, HF regular Tolian Naros, and her supporting staff would include former HF regular Jorian Dao, as well as former recurring character Artim Ibanya, alongside new and original characters. It was also announced that JT Tepnapa, known for his portrayal of Corey Aster, would also be in this new show, but it wasn’t clear as to what role he would be playing. Given the ambiguous nature of Aster's fate at the end of “Iliad”, it was not clear if he would return as Aster, or like co-star Adam Browne's role in Odyssey, play a new role, especially since no promotion pictures of him were released. It wasn’t until production pictures were released that we discovered he would be playing Aster once again. One plot point was made clear as the show neared its premiere – this would not simply be a spin-off, but a true sister series to Odyssey, following the effects that the Archein invasion had on the Alpha Quadrant, and how the loss of the Odyssey affected those left behind. One of the more well known promotional angles the show had was an image of the Renaissance-class starship, with a skull-and-crossbones superimposed over it, along with the tag “How far would you go for your friends?” suggesting that perhaps the crews efforts to help their stranded comrades would go beyond 'acceptable' limits... 29

Episode 1x01: Sanctuary Lost

The premiere episode of the series is vastly different from that of her companion series, Odyssey, since the necessary back story was already established in “Iliad” instead we get straight into the consequences of the Archein attack, which has decimated Romulan forces. The Helena, though, has spent the last six months pursuing a different goal – searching for Corey Aster, who was amongst those unaccounted for during the evacuation of the Klingon vessel he had been stationed on. Having finally recovered him from Romulan 'care', he is slowly set on the path of recovery, both physically and mentally, although the latter may take much longer then the former. Convinced his husband is somehow still alive in Andromeda, he is unable to be swayed to any other line of thought, but his friends worry for his sanity is pushed aside when the Helena is diverted to a scientific station, Sanctuary Outpost. Essentially a nature preserve for the botanical lifeforms indigenous to the Patch, the facility is designed to provide them with the necessary conditions to allow to survive with the dispersal of the Patch gases. However the technology that enables this can also be harnessed as a weapon, so Helena is sent to secure the station, which has been out of contact. Finding the station damaged, and with the remains of bodies, the investigation reveals a shocking discovery into not one but two species of space born lifeforms, one that was drawn to the energy type produced by the station, while the other is drawn to the lifeforms themselves. Helena finds itself in the middle of a battle of the food chain, and is forced to destroy the predator before it can wreck havoc throughout the former Patch area. Evidence also arises that this predator may not be the 'top dog', but rather just one rung of the chain, and that other, nastier creatures may be laying in wait though-out the sector. The fight with the predator also has another unexpected effect, when Aster is knocked unconscious, and experiences a vision of his husband, which leaves a physical remnant in the form of a scar on his hand, which he becomes convinced is a sign of Ro's existence, as well as a clue to his whereabouts.

The plotline of this episode harkens back to the days of TNG, where the Enterprise crew encountered several space-born entities, something that Hidden Frontier never addressed during its seven-year run. The idea that the dissolution of the Patch gases had this kind of unforeseen side effect is a stroke of genius on writer Brian Matthew's part, as it links to the idea of how certain animals on Earth are losing their own feeding habitats to the continued growth of the human race. The CGI used to bring both the 'minnows' and 'squid' to reality are amazing, and do the script justice without looking at all cheesy, except for the end moment when the squid is destroyed by a photon torpedo, and real goo goes flying everywhere – in my opinion, that was a bit too comedic as all it lacked was a shot of it splattering over the Helena's hull... Speaking of comedic, despite the seriousness of Aster's seeming loss, it seems that there are at times inappropriate character moments, such as Chief Engineer Rockney's obsessive affection for his ship, and CMO Dr. Ness's habit of self-experimentation – it pulls away from the moments of genuine emotional trauma. This is the first time we have seen the crew of the Helena explored, aside from the characters of Faisel and Dao, and it seems that they are just walking eccentricities. Another note is the sheer amount of technobabble this episode has, which is not normally something I would complain about, but in this case, many a viewer may get lost in the various moments that deal with scientific minutia. When the crew realise just what they are up against, I felt lost and did not understand the significance of what we had just been shown until it was spelt out.

Episode 1x02: Obsessions

Following on from the events of “Sanctuary Lost”, this episode addresses just how distanced Aster has become from his friends, due to his unwavering belief that not only Nevin is still alive, but of his vision and the resulting scar. Unfortunately, his determination to prove himself correct leads to him taking unnecessary risks with his own safety, leading to Dr. Ness recommending the young man is put under psychiatric care. But talks with both his friends, and his newly appointed counsellor, Lieutenant Heta'an, does nothing to convince him of the error of his ways – in fact, it is his friends who become more convinced of the veracity of his claims. Of course, having a counsellor who may be aligned with Section 31 may prove to be detrimental to Aster's mental health as it is. When Jorian and the visiting Robin Lefler manage to find tangible proof that the pattern of the scar corresponds to an Andromedan constellation, they are not only able to bring Faisel into their confidence, but Admiral Knapp as well, who authorises the release of Omega-related technical data. But their efforts to using Omega bring them into contact with Caelano, a merchant-pirate, when they need to secure a thalaron generator in order to properly power the device. Security Chief Dias agrees to act as a diversion when the payment Caelano specifies is declared too dangerous for her to have, and the Helena crew, the majority of them unaware their commanding officers are working strictly off-the-books, quickly manage to anger the merchant-pirate. Her revenge results in the arrest of Admiral Knapp when his role in the scheme is uncovered, and Admiral Rand orders the Helena to surrender, an order Faisel refuses to obey, ultimately turning her unknowing crew into fugitives.

It is with this episode we finally begin to get to the crux of the idea behind Helena Chronicles – just how far will Faisal and Dao go to help Aster reunite with his lost love, Penelope to Ro's Odysseus. The doubts that his friends have for the veracity of his visions are understandable, since Dao is naturally scientifically minded and Faisal hasn't known him as long as others, so to see Lefler as his only ally makes perfect sense. It is nice to see the two characters being friends again, instead of banging heads as they did during the early days of Season Seven of HF, and she is perfect to bridge the gap between whatever psychic ability it is Aster has, and Dao's analytical thinking. The character of Caelano is refreshingly 'evil' for lack of a better word, someone who will do what she wants when she wants, and those who dare cross her are risking much, as the Helena crew discover when she not only spills the beans to Starfleet Command on what they are planning, but also revealing Jorian's secret nature as a illegally joined Trill. But I am disappointed in how this story is panning out. As much as I can understand both Faisal and Dao's desire to help their friend, they have forgotten the first rule of a commander – to watch out for the people under their command. Their actions have not only condemned them and their careers, but also those who serve under them. Rand made it clear she held the entire crew in contempt, and Faisal's pitiful attempt to maintain a degree of secrecy by 'clearing the bridge' was laughable – if that doesn't get the attention of her crew as to the illegal nature of the mission, then the crew deserves to be punished.

Episode 1x03: The Letter Of The Law

Starfleet versus Starfleet: that is the main angle of the season finale of Helena Chronicles, as Faisel and her small group of collaborators, intent on securing the means to test their new Omega-powered drive and embark on a rescue effort to Andromeda, while maintaining their distance from the task-force that has been sent after them. The Legacy, under the command of Captain Joseph Johns, is forced to relinquish command of the fleet to Captain Benjamin Maxwell of the USS Phoenix, something he is not happy with, given the man's rather 'colourful' past. Meanwhile, Helena visits a Ferengi mining facility to procure an ore they need for the Omega reactor, but find themselves sold out to their old foe Caelano, although they manage to slip away from her clutches once again. In fact, everything seems to be going in the Helena's favour, even when Ness and Rockney begin to put the pieces together and realise they are not being told everything, and that the mission may not be on the up and up. But their good luck gives way dramatically to tragic consequences when the shuttle testing their Omega-core self destructs, killing Lefler, and destroying subspace across almost an entire sector, as the shockwave pushes the Helena to who-knows-where... Bringing in the pariah that is Benjamin Maxwell was an inspired idea by series writer Brian Matthews, as well as placing him alongside long time HF supporting character Joseph John, reintroduced as the commander of the USS Legacy in the previous episode. We also get to see more the original design of the Legacy-class vessel in this episode, after its introduction in the previous episode, as it serves alongside the now totally refit Starship Phoenix. Maxwell's Nebula-class explorer seems to have been converted into a dreadnought, with a rollbar added onto the sensor pod, alongside extra torpedo banks, as well as phaser cannons mounted near the bridge, akin to the original Galaxy-III design. Tom Bulmer brings new life to a character we haven’t heard from since his original episode in Season Three TNG, and it was nice to see he hadn't lost his edge, although one scene did have a production blooper. The Son'a facility's work prevents warp travel unless they power down – so how had Maxwell's task force gotten so close to them beforehand – 3 light-years on impulse is quite a LONG trip. Still, I look forward to seeing what Maxwell may bring to the 2nd season, alongside his new counsellor Heta'an, whose true loyalty to Section 31 means she is under orders to preserve Omega.

HF productions is no stranger to the idea of killing a character off, having killed not one but two of its major characters in its series finale, but personally I was completely underwhelmed by the death of Robin Lefler. It has such potential, since she was not just a regular for the entire run of HF, but also a proper canon character they took and modelled into the loyal friend to Aster and brilliant engineer she became. I was let in on the secret that was the plan to have Robin die in this episode several months ago, so I could prepare a fitting tribute video for the character at the request of Rob Caves, so perhaps this is why I feel that way. I feel her death would have been more poignant if she had gone out with more of a 'sacrificing for the greater good' death, instead of being simple collateral damage to a failed experiment – it made her death meaningless, and Robin deserved better. Of course, this may just be the point, as it will surely haunt Faisal, and could very well lead to Aster's fragile psyche taking an even worse blow. Speaking of Faisal, I again question her command decisions, even before it cost Robin Lefler her life and sent the Helena off to who-knows-where. The majority of her crew have no idea what they are involved in, although I am happy (so to speak) that Artim is now in the loop – as a former Excelsior officer, he has a vested interest in the safety of the Odyssey himself. Seeing Rockney stand by his captain, even if he doesn't know the full details was a surprise, considering his only loyalty thus far has been to the Helena herself. But Ness obviously has his doubts, and is growing more suspicious of the actions of his captain, despite the loss of Rockney as an ally, and is adamant all this work is detrimental to the welfare of Aster. Melodee Spevack is a delight to watch as Caelano, as she pursues the Helena, but her scenes did seem somewhat superfluous in the end, and despite the threat she could have presented, she has no involvement in the final tragedy, which would have shown Faisal just what crossing her has cost her. Instead, she is merely a footnote in the story, but I hope to see her again in Season Two.

With the heavy production schedule HF Productions undertakes, filming not one but three separate series, and this has the effect of limiting the amount of episode per series they produce. The Helena Chronicles is designed to not just compliment Odyssey, but also flesh out new characters and follow the development of older ones, but at only 3 episodes length, it more deserves the designation of 'mini-series'. In fact, considering that “Sanctuary Lost” does not contribute much to the overall arch of the Helena going rogue, aside from an initial introduction of the characters, it could very well have all been condensed into a “Operation: Beta Shield” type movie, that could have been explored by a series afterwards. Alternately, the series had been longer, we could have spent more time getting to know the newer characters, seeing them forge closer bonds that Faisal's decision would weaken. We could also have explored the idea that Section 31 is interested in what Helena was trying to achieve, and how Heta'an, who secretly wants Omega for her superiors, could have manipulated Aster into the path he chose. All these questions and doubts aside, I look forward to Season 2, as it does have a lot of new loose end to tie of, as the hunt for the Helena intensifies and the crew deal with the ramifications of what their captain has lead them into. Does the loose of Robin somehow tie into the vision the Prophets sent Ro in Odyssey, and how will Corey deal with the fact that he killed his beloved friend? Will Ness and Rockney continue to stand by and do nothing after the disastrous Omega test, and what will that do to the morale and support of the remaining collaborators? Just how far will Faisal and Dao continue to go now they really have nothing left to lose?~

JT TEPNAPA TALKS DIRECTLY TO TCM ABOUT HOW HIS CHARACTER COREY ASTER HAS DEVELOPED SINCE THE END OF STAR TREK HIDDEN FRONTIER.

TCM: How do you see Aster as a person? JT: I see Corey as an incurable romantic that once he has his heart set on someone it’s hard to let the person go. In the course of 8 years, Corey has only had a few relationships. But his true love was always Ro Nevin. Like all Starfleet officers, he’s a workaholic, a perfectionist, and he doesn’t like to take no for an answer. TCM: What inspires him? JT: People and technology inspire Aster. I think that’s why he went into Starfleet to begin with. Part of it was to escape his past, but an even stronger part was to reach out to people. He is an orphan and the only family he has is his fellow officers. Together they are able to be on the cutting edge of technology and create new things for the betterment of humankind. I saw humankind, as in humanoid, because I think Aster probably gets along better with alien races than his own.

TCM: What do you bring to your performance to make Aster come to life? JT: Aster contains the extremes of my personality. I look up to Aster. He’s extremely intelligent. He knows how to make a successful relationships and he’s career motivated. I try to tap into pieces of my own personality to make Aster more real. I’m happy to say that in the 8 years I’ve been portraying this character, I’m coming closer to his success. Although Aster will always be several steps ahead of me; he’s the enlightened J.T. TCM: What are your thoughts on the various ongoing storylines? JT: I love the new storyline. Aster’s perfect world is being challenged. He’s lost the love of his life. He is losing his career. And now with recent events from the episode “Letter of the Law”, he may lose his mind for a time. So maybe Aster isn’t so perfect after all. It’s nice to see the shift in his storyline. TCM: What do you do to prepare for a scene? JT: To be honest, not much. I like to write out my lines on paper several times. I also act out my lines a bit with my husband, Adam Browne. I’ve been playing this character for years, so he doesn’t need a lot of prep time. In the beginning I wrote out a backstory to Corey, I traced his origins and I obsessed on everything he would say. But I’ve grown comfortable with him. I don’t need to work as hard as I might if I were to take on a new character. 35

TCM: Compared to the direction your character took in Hidden Frontier, how would you like to see them change and evolve of the course of this series? JT: Well, I pretty much know how my character will evolve. I don’t want to give anything away. Let me just say it’s all new territory. And I’m happy to go there. At this point, I’m just enjoying the rollercoaster! TCM: If you weren't playing Aster, which Helena or Odyssey character would you like to portray? JT: I would love to play a villain! I’ve been asking to play one for years, but I think people are so use to my Corey, they can’t see me as evil. I can be evil! Seriously! I could totally do it. Some of my best friends think I’m a total jerk at time! TCM: What drew you to this character? JT: Frankly, It’s because Aster is gay. Although it shouldn’t matter in the 24th century, it does matter in the 21st century. He has been the single most controversial character on Hidden Frontier. Aster has always been gay. He never questioned his sexuality. I felt he represents many gay sci-fi fans out there that just wanted to be part of the fandom. I think he adds a special voice to Star Trek. I have received heartfelt fan mail from gay fans around the world expressing their joy at finally seeing characters representing them. People have even been able to come out of the closet because of watching our characters come out and express their love. That’s just awesome! It’s sometimes a bit overwhelming that a webseries can make such large impact on someone’s life. TCM: Do you focus just on your series, or do you keep updated with the story-lines in your series' sister shows? JT: I really consider it one show in several parts. They exist together. Besides, my “movie husband” is the other storyline! I better pay attention. I consider myself the “Penelope” to Ro’s Odyssey. TCM: How did you get involved with Hidden Frontier? JT: Before there was even a Hidden Frontier, I did a pilot episode called “Q in the Dark” with the Star Trek fan club, USS Angeles. Rob was branching out and finding actors to fill out supplemental roles. I think it was even that far back he had in mind for Corey Aster to be a gay character. Years later Rob took that episode and recut it into a second season of Hidden Frontier called “In Memory Of”. TCM: What is your own experience with 'canon' Star Trek? JT: I grew up on Star Trek. My mom was a huge Star Trek fan. Her favorite characters were Spock and Sulu. So I was a natural sci-fi fan. I’ve loved all the incarnations of Star Trek. My favorite being Voyager and the last season of Enterprise finally got some good storylines. TCM: What other projects do you have going on? JT: Right now I’m doing double duty, not only am I playing Corey Aster on Star Trek Helena Chronicles, but also once a year I head to the east coast to play Lt. Cmdr Sulu on Star Trek Phase 2. Outside of Trek, I write and direct my own gay movies. My latest project is a gay fantasy piece. It’s a bit like Twilight Zone meets A Christmas Carol. You can check it out at judaskissmovie.com~ 36

HERE TCM TALKS TO AARON LEDDICK ABOUT HIS YEAR AS TAM ENSI IN STAR TREK FEDERATION ONE. TCM: How do you see Tam as a person? AL: I am still in a growing stage with him, trying to flush out this individual. He is certainly an observer. With the empathy abilities comes a lifetime of studying, watching others handle themselves. I think Tam has a quiet confidence that is just beginning to take shape. TCM: What inspires him? AL: Accomplishment. Solving problems. Being press secretary, Tam runs into many “sticky” situations that require quick strong choices. His job is to make the right choices as quickly as possible, so there can’t be too much hesitation. The press meeting in episode 1 was a situation Tam would have nightmares about. Thrown out to the wolves (the press) with little information to present, and certainly no substance to back up what he has to say. The ultimate humiliation comes when the president steps in. That stings because he desires to do a great job, and that was far from it. TCM: How you see their relationships with others? AL: I think Tam is friendly with everyone on a surface and professional level, but at this point I don’t think he hangs out too much with the co-workers outside of the job. I don’t know that others think about him too much. Good or bad. I feel like Tam’s time is coming.

TCM: What do you bring to your performance to make Tam come to life? AL: There’s the old saying that you’re stuck with the character, but the character is also stuck with you. I lead with a boyish charm, so incorporating that with Ensi is just going to happen naturally. Since I’m playing Tam, I see him as the new young guy coming into the fold. If an older actor were playing this part, it would be a different story. In order to bring this character to life, I look for opportunities to portray the struggle between stepping up to accomplish the job at hand and the insecurity that comes with being new and a little uncertain of one’s place. TCM: What are your thoughts on the various ongoing storylines? AL: Obviously, I’m curious to see where things go with Ensi. I’m waiting for Kaart and McCabe to actually get in a fist-fight. That would be exciting! Vindenpawl has had a rough go of things as president. I can’t imagine how difficult that job would be in real life. I think at some point she is going to fail, give up, or be removed. I’m sure you guys have that one covered, but I expect some major shake ups to occur in the near future. Maybe Ensi will be president! Ha! Just kidding. I like how storylines connect among the different shows, and I am anxious to see that occur with the Fed. 1 crew popping up elsewhere.

TCM: What do you do to prepare for a scene? AL: It starts with memorizing the lines. That’s somewhat important. Next, I try to get as much information about the scene, the characters, and where the story is going from there. Then I play with the scene, searching for alternative choices that will make my performance more alive and real for me. If I can find a certain level of truth in what I’m doing, then I think it has a good shot of coming across to the audience. TCM: How would you like Tam to change and evolve over the course of the series? AL: As I’ve discussed earlier, I would like to see the more confident side begin to take over. It’s happened a little in episode 2, but there is plenty of room for growth. I want Tam to be more of a leader down the line. Perhaps there’s also a lady in his future… TCM: If you weren't playing Tam, which Federation-One character would you like to portray? AL: McCabe! Not just because he’s the lead. TCM: What draws you to this character? AL: He gets to do all the fun stuff like confront the other characters. He’s a fighter and he’s passionate. It’s hard not to be drawn to that. He’s a lot of things Ensi (and Aaron) desire to be. TCM: Do you focus just on your series, or do you keep updated with the story-lines in your series' sister shows? AL: I enjoy checking in on what my good friend Sharon Savene is doing over at Helena Chronicles. TCM: How did you get involved with Hidden Frontier? AL: I’ve been friends with Sharon for several years now, and she asked if I wanted to be a part of this web series. I replied with a very excited yes. It’s been a blast too. I can’t wait to work on more and new projects with Rob and the crew. TCM: What is your own experience with 'canon' Star Trek? AL: Before all this, I had seen the original movie and “Generations” with Patrick Stewart. I probably had seen about five episodes of the entire thing. When I was told my character was a betazoid, I had to look up what that even meant. I am learning more and more about this world, universe rather, and it is fascinating. I am still a Star Trek newbie, but that just means I have plenty of room to grow.~

JACQUES FREYDONT TALKS TO TCM ABOUT HIS CHARACTER KARRT FROM STAR TREK FEDERATION ONE. TCM: How do you see Kaart as person? JF: Kaart has a fruitful mind and a flexible conscience, both in full service of what he thinks is right. Work is all he knows. He has never explored his own emotions, and considers introspection navel gazing. TCM: What inspires him? JF: He is dedicated to Vindenpawl above all else, and would die for her. He loves her brilliance, her diplomatic and strategic skills. TCM: How you see their relationships with others? JF: He is not interested in or talented at personal relations. People have duties, and he is most interested in how they perform those duties and how the behaviors of others impact his goal: maintaining Vindenpawl’s preeminence. TCM: What do you bring to your performance to make Kaart come to life? JF: In my previous life, I was a cooperate executive, never a CEO, always a number 2, behind the scenes advisor to my bosses. I understand Kaart’s view of his purpose in the world and his unflagging commitment to service that purpose.

TCM: What are your thoughts on the various ongoing storylines? JF: I like the McCabe-Onshul team and I hope full romance blooms. I see no reason to explore “the pod explosion”. What’s done is done, let’s move on. Long live the new president! TCM: What do you do to prepare for a scene? JF: I use emotional memory. I think back to my own days as a person w/ power over the lives of others, and remember how I felt as I manipulated employees, bosses, vendors and the university leaders. TCM: How would you like Kaart to change and evolve over the course of the series? JF: I would like to gain more power, use it for the good of the Federation. He will be willing to do the moral dirty work that might not be pretty to watch, but which the Federation needs. He is on the side of good, but will fight dirty to defend that good. I hope that Star Fleet will come to appreciate his worth even if they always dislike his person and his bad breath. 39

TCM: If you weren't playing Kaart, which FederationOne character would you like to portray? JF: I don’t know of another character in particular, but I would like to play a Cardassian. I like that they are at once sensitive and unscrupulous. TCM: What draws you to this character? JF: Again, the similarity w/ my own position in the working world: I think he is competent, selfless and intelligent. I love his moral ambiguity. TCM: Do you focus just on your series, or do you keep updated with the story-lines in your series' sister shows? JF: I have watched some of the other shows, but I’m very busy with theater this year and have not given them the time they deserve. I will. TCM: How did you get involved with Hidden Frontier? JF: Audition off a breakout from Now Casting. TCM: What is your own experience with 'canon' Star Trek? JF: I have watched the show since the beginning, many times for the original. I kept up through the 2nd season of Enterprise, and then drifted away. Like many Star Trek actors, I also do a lot of Shakespeare. Both worlds are based on honor and duty. I think life is based on these ideals too, but we don’t notice in today’s world. Loving and knowing Shakespeare and Star Trek helped me get through life with those ancient virtues as my load stars.~

HERE ALEX MATTHEWS LOOKS BACK AT THE FIRST SEASON OF STAR TREK FEDERATION ONE. Shortly after Operation: Beta Shield was announced, it was followed up by the news that this HF/Intrepid feature-length crossover would also act as a stepping stone for another HF Productions spin-off, called “Federation-One”. It would star several HF alumni, including Wayne Webb continuing his well received portrayal of Lt. Commander Matt McCabe, chief of security of Excelsior, as well as Rebecca Wood, who would bring back one of her more underdeveloped characters, President Vindenpawl of Vreijheid. Speculation soon started on just what the focus of the show would be, since it involved a politician as a major character, and how McCabe would deal with his disdain for her. There was also the cryptic title, which lead to several fans commenting on the likeness to “Air Force One”, the call sign assigned to planes carrying the President of the United States. When O:BS premiered, it soon set the scene for what the series would be about, following Vindenpawl on her own personal journey as acting-President of the United Federation of Planets, onboard the presidential transport, the Diplomat-class Federation-One. McCabe, having been assigned as Head of Presidential Security, carries with him not only the desire to discover who assassinated Vindenpawl's predecessor, but also his intense dissatisfaction that someone like her now runs the Federation. Vindenpawl and McCabe's past history and their antagonistic relationship promises to bring something different that the other series lack – consistent interaction between a hero and a villain, as they try to work out each others agenda.

Episode 1x01: Unity Picking up only a short time from the end of O:BS, Federation-One rendezvous’ with Excelsior, as Commodore Shelby continues leading the allied task-force in Romulan Space. Vindenpawl receives a situation briefing in person, cutting out the middle man, much to Shelby's surprise, and any time McCabe wished to spend with his former CO is curtailed by Kaart, Vindenpawl's chief of staff. Put in charge of an independent investigation into the death of President Se'Fron, McCabe is assigned a young Vreijheidian woman, Mara Onshul, as an assistant to the investigation, and is initially distrustful, believing her to be Vreijheid Security. But Mara, formally assigned as a Science Intern, soon wins him over, especially when she agrees that Kaart has bad breath. Unfortunately, McCabe's first task for her is to act as a decoy onboard the new diplomatic module, so the sensors read a Vreijheidian female onboard, while Vindenpawl beams down to Romulus to meet Praetor Yeshva. The meeting, to propose a joint effort in constructing and manning a starbase inside Romulan space, in order to shorten supply lines for the fleet, goes in Vindenpawl's favour, as she sweet-talks her recently promoted Romulan counterpart, but Yeshva does not agree completely, leaving the topic open for now.

Focusing on the investigation, Mara and McCabe look over several sensor logs that were conveniently not confiscated by Starfleet Intelligence, and find evidence that may suggest sabotage but nothing concrete. They also argue about their opposing views regarding Vindenpawl, with McCabe not willing to give her any leeway, whereas Mara supports her, having seen the good she believes she has done to Vreijheid. Leaving her more fresh eyes to look over the data, McCabe visits the ship's lounge, and meets Tam Ensi, the Presidential Press Secretary. The two men bond over a mutual dislike of Kaart, but McCabe is soon called away by a message from Shelby. She contacts him ostensibly to recommend boosting the ship's long range sensors, while Excelsior undergo a diagnostic, but also mentions focusing them on the local asteroid belt, which peaks the security chief's interest. Unofficially taking a shuttle, he and Mara run a scan on the area, and discover something emitting a signal, but after beaming it aboard, they are detained by the arrival of the Avenger-class USS Vigilant. Thankfully, Mara is able to not only bluff their way out of trouble, but also secrete the data core of the device somewhere safe and smuggle it back aboard Federation-One. McCabe receives a slight verbal reprimand for going behind everyone's back, but the fact that the data-core shows Se'Fron's module was infected by a Romulan adaptive virus shows he WAS assassinated. However, McCabe doubts the Romulans themselves would be responsible, although Kaart contests they may do so as a show of force, given the previous Section 31 presence on Romulus. Unfortunately, McCabe is not allowed to continue with his own analysis, since the data-core is the rightful property of Starfleet Intelligence. Once the meeting is dismissed though, Vindenpawl and Kaart share a sense of worry on this new discovery. A meeting with Admiral Selek, the Commander-in-Chief of Starfleet, not only informs McCabe that the virus is of Tal Shiar lineage, but also provides him with an idea, in order to get more information. Piggy-backing a transmission through Starbase 395's comm array, McCabe calls Korg, ad asks for the former general's help. Korg, although cautious in his advice, sends McCabe details on a Tal Shair agent who may be able to help, and promises to call if any new information comes his way. Mara, however, is angry at being pulled into the thickening plot, and refuses to go any further, even though McCabe argues she is already involved. Their argument is halted when McCabe is alerted to an unscheduled press conference which is starting very soon. He angrily interrupts a meeting between Vindenpawl and her Secretary for the Exterior, Margaret McGowan, neither of who know anything about the conference. They race down to the Press Deck, and as Tam begins to address the crowd with the information Kaart has provided, Vindenpawl quickly interrupts, taking control of the conference, and saving face. She also manages to give McCabe another two days to follow up on his leads, so he heads out to a meeting with Decius, the informant Korg provided. The agent explains that although the Tal Shiar did not assassinate Se'Fron, they were involved, as they traded their adaptive virus for weapons to fight the Archein, although he doesn't tell McCabe just who the arms dealer was, leaving that for the security chief to figure out for himself. He also leaves a parting gift â&#x20AC;&#x201C; a flask of Romulan ale, with a datachip inside! Vindenpawl, however, is not impressed in the slightest, even though the datachip shows the Orion Syndicate was the arms dealer. But she has more important matters to tend to, with the arrival of Praetor Yeshva. Here, Vindenpawl shows she is not to be trifled with, and strikes a deal with the Praetor, using the fact that they traded weapons to force her hand. Handing over a list of Tal Shair operatives whose covers have been blown, unknown to their superiors, Vindenpawl suggests allowing those named to be blamed for the death of Se'Fron, acting renegade from their government, in order to close the investigation, and save Romulus' political face. But Vindenpawl also demands a concession for joining in with the lie â&#x20AC;&#x201C; granting permission for the supply starbase to be constructed. With no other choice, Yeshva acquiesces, allowing Vindenpawl to push her own agenda a little further.

Episode 2: “Institutions” Mara and McCabe share a rather intimate moment as he helps her refine her phaser skills, but the mood is ruined when she reveals that, with the investigation into Se'Fron's death closed, her assignment has been terminated, and she will be leaving Federation-One within a few days. They both try to make light of it, but after she leaves, McCabe's mind is obviously not on his own phaser practise. Vindenpawl is in a meeting with Kaart, McGowan and Ensi regarding the Son'a and the reformation of the borders, but the topic soon turns to the imminent “State of the Federation” address. Her speechwriter, a bumbling sycophant on the verge of puppylove with the President, promises to deliver a speech that will get everyone's attention. Before dismissing the meeting, another matter is raised, which unnerves everyone – there is a leak in the Presidential office, who passed information that has allowed one of Vindenpawl's political rivals to criticise a plan of action she has yet to propose. McCabe is offered a First Officer position onboard one of the ship's in the defence fleet by Commodore Shelby, but he is hesitant to accept it, even though Shelby reminds him that with the Romulans claiming responsibility for Se'Fron's assassination, he has no reason to stay. McCabe's dissatisfaction with his assignment is increased even more when Vindenpawl assigns him to identify the information leak. He has no interest in the politics, until she makes it clear that it goes hand in hand with heading her security. Federation-One arrives at the newly constructed Unity Station, but McCabe is busy with interviews of possible suspects for the information leak, starting with Broddik the speechwriter, whose opinion of Vindenpawl is diametrically opposed to McCabe's. Finishing the interview up, he manages to catch Mara just before she disembarks, and gives her a going away present, but asks her not to open until she is secured on her way home. Mara herself has just finished arguing with her betrothed over subspace, who reminds her of the sacrifices he has made for their relationship, and expects her to place their marriage first.

During a press conference held by Ensi, it comes to light that Vindenpawl's rival has not been invited to an important official function, and Ensi bears the brunt of Kaart's anger at this basic slip-up. Ensi defends himself, pointing out that he was one of several not invited, and the press are the ones making the situation appear worse than it is. He recommends a calmer plan, not to antagonise the situation further, but begin damage control. Their meeting is interrupted by McCabe, and once Ensi leaves, he reveals he has figured out that Kaart leaked the information, but because of a loophole, can get away with it. Kaart even admits it was Vindenpawl's idea, as it helped flush out her rival, and show he intends to run in any special election that will be held to bring in a voted for president, instead of a pro-tempa one like Vindenpawl. In a briefing, Tam offers to resign, but Vindenpawl won’t hear of it, since it was just a party, and she applauds and approves his suggestion to offer the rival the position of Secretary of Education, since it was her education policies he was attacking. However, at the ceremony, where Vindenpawl will deliver her Address, Kaart informs her that not only has the rival refused the offer, but he is holding a press conference straight after her speech. Vindenpawl mentions a story, about the futility of protesting at something more powerful then oneself, referring to her rival as just one man, whereas they represent something bigger then themselves. Even though the investigation has been taken out of his hands and closed, McCabe follows a lead that introduces him to Lt. Gwen Miller, an engineer assigned to Unity Station. Having noticed that several Romulan ships have arrived with heavy machinery, he crosschecks logs with the lieutenant's activity. It soon shows that the deflector has been reconfigured to harness gravitons in a way it was not designed for. Contacting Mara, who has discovered it was a phaser McCabe gave her as a going away present, McCabe uses her as a sounding board, as he pokes holes in the theory that rogue Tal Shiar agents assassinated Se'Fron. He then gets a call from Shelby, who is returning a request from him, and after a little flattery, asks her for a favour only a Commodore can grant. 43

Arriving at Earth, Vindenpawl continues to deal with the fallout from her rival's actions, but there is a silver lining to her troubles, as she confirms McCabe's reassignment of the ship. He is being sent back to Earth for 'further training and review', and both of them take enjoyment and being rid of the other. However, unknown to Vindenpawl, this is just a cover arranged by Shelby to allow him to move more freely to track a connection he has figured out. He has realised that by tracking the purchase of the subspace weapons the Empire has purchase, he might also find those who sold the adaptive program used to trigger the destruction of Se'Fron's transport. There, he can track who really arranged Se'Fron's death, since he believes it was not the rogue Tal Shiar operatives. He is surprised though, when Mara unexpectedly arrives, and insists on accompanying him, even if it means going straight to the site of the sale – Hell's Gate. My first thought watching both episodes was that it was enjoyable to see Rebecca Wood and Wayne Webb playing against each other as Vindenpawl and McCabe, their mutual animosity only glimpsed at by the end of O:BS. The two light up the screen when they share it, and have a good chemistry, as does Webb and Heather Ashleigh, formerly Silan of Hidden Frontier, and now Mara Onshul. It is also nice to see storylines that are outside of the Odyssey/Helena arc, and the continuing life of characters outside that storyline, and how life in the Federation continues forward. We also meet several other new characters, such as Margaret McGowan, portrayed wonderfully by HF alumni Barbara Clifford, returning for the first time since her previous character, Counsellor Elbrey, died in the HF finale. Tam Ensi, the Press Secretary is brought to life by Aaron Leddick, who brings a boyish charm to the role, giving McCabe to joke around with, while also standing up for himself, as demonstrated by not being intimidated by Kaart. Jacques Freydont was introduced during O:BS as Vindenpawl's chief of security, who is now her Chief of Staff, and brings a delightfully more villainous character, who can play “bad cop” to Vindenpawl's “good cop”. Finally, the cast is rounded up by Admiral Selek, played by David O'Neill, who is usually behind the camera instead of being a lead in front. The Commander-in-Chief of Starfleet, David brings a coolness to the character, which is important for any Vulcan, but he evokes memories of early TOS Spock, with his dry wit. We also meet some other supporting characters, such as Speechwriter Broddik, who I hope to see more of again, not because I liked him, but because I didn't. I thought he was annoying, sycophantic and an excellent comedy moment, especially with some of the praise he gives Vindenpawl and the way she responds.

The plot carries on from where O:BS left off, as McCabe deals with being in the lion's den, as he works to figure out how Se'Fron was killed, and by whom, as he also must contend with Vindenpawl's affect on the Federation. We also get to see how skilled Vindenpawl is in the political game or outmanoeuvring and one-upmanship, as she is explored further then she got the chance in her two appearance in Hidden Frontier. However, I find that calling this a “season” is far too generous, since it only consists of 2 episodes, even shorter than the Helena Chronicles first season. This doesn't really even constitute a mini-series, and I wonder why it couldn't have been done as a feature length follow up to O:BS. Considering the sheer amount of time that passed in the premiere of Odyssey, having a little caption that says “One Month Later” does not seem too much of a idea, to segment the two together. Speaking of time, we again have no idea how much time has passed since the end of 1x01, and the beginning of 1x02, but is must be a couple of months, since Unity Station is up and running, a feat Vindenpawl claimed would take about that amount of time in 1x01. There is also the risk inherently involved in the manner the show exists. It seems that Vindenpawl seems to run the Federation from FederationOne, because we have not seen her set foot in her office in Paris – even at the end of O:BS, instead of taking delight in that office, she is flouncing around her transport ship. Surely having a President on a vessel, without any significant escort until the latter half of “Institutions” is a grossly negligent risk considering her predecessor was killed aboard a smaller version. Starships are inherently dangerous places, compared to the security of Earth, so why would they not keep her planet-bound, especially since as a former planetary ruler, she is used to that kind of life. Not only that, but it seems a large portion of the Cabinet also travel with her, as well as the head of Starfleet – all that is left is for someone to paint a bullseye on the hull. Although I was able to follow the storyline, it did feel at times, especially in “Institutions”, that it went off on unneeded tangents, like the introduction of Gwen Miller. She seemed not only far too familiar with a superior officer she has just met, but it seemed the information the scene delivered could have been done in a simpler fashion, such as McCabe reading a report aloud, or brainstorming with Mara. Speaking of Mara, the plot attempts to flesh her out a little bit, introducing a fiancé and a strained relationship, and forcing her to choose between her betrothal or a friendship with McCabe. Unfortunately, I found it difficult to care, since we have only seen them just meet, and now she is telling him how much she has learned from him, and going on a dangerous unofficial mission with him. Also, on a costuming note, they changed the hairstyle of the character, with one scene in “Unity” switching from a natural dyed look to a wig, before switching back again (due to filming out of sequence), before keeping the wig for “Institutions”. I felt the wig looked too fake and it ruined the otherwise natural look of the Vreijheidian make-up. With the second “season” comprising mostly of audios, I hope, as I said with Helena Chronicles, that perhaps we will be given glimpses into the past, filling in the gaps between the two episodes, so we understand just how close Mara and McCabe grew, and spend some more time with the other less established characters. Given the fact that Mara was a steadfast supporter of someone McCabe despises, it should be explored.~

Star Trek Hidden Frontier has set a benchmark for a lot of Star Trek Fan Films that have followed, however when Hidden Frontier Productions announced that they themselves were going to launch a spin-off from Hidden Frontier, they took that benchmark and blew clear out of the water. Star Trek Odyssey, Star Trek The Helena Chronicles and Star Trek Federation One are a huge step up from what this group of people were producing in Hidden Frontier. With their own original theme tunes and stories they are well and truly close to what Paramount produce and put out when they do Star Trek well. Star Trek Odyssey took the lead in this trinity of series when the Starship Odyssey boldly went to the Andromeda Galaxy to stave off an Archein Invasion of Romulan Space. This series has taken the well known character of Ro Nevin and developed him way beyond the confused young man we saw in parts of Hidden Frontier, they have then complimented that character with a whole host of new characters, in the form of Tâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Lorra the Romulan, Stadi the Security Chief, Gillian the very unsure of himself Engineer and the mysterious Doctor Vaughan. Over the course of five episodes Star Trek Odyssey has developed into a nice series that has me hooked as to what is going to happen and this is credit to the actors and writers of the series. Star Trek The Helena Chronicles is the second series and is a companion to Odyssey. This is probably my least liked of all three series and most of that is because of some of the characters and not the storyline. I love Dias and Ness, they are a new way of dealing with aliens in Star Trek and both show a lot of ability to be developed as characters and I am looking forward to seeing where they are going to go. However I find Rockney really annoying and at times over the top, the way he talks to the ship and even has mood lighting is almost always pointless to the storyline and to be honest just plain stupid. As a series I like Helena and will follow it to the series end because the characters that have got my attention I care enough about to go back and actually find out what they are doing. Star Trek Federation One is my favourite series out the lot and the third to come from Hidden Frontier. When this was announced after the announcement of Operation Beta Shield I got really excited, because I am a bit of a politic buff. Also the idea of seeing what happens in Federation Politics really interests me. I think it has always been the one thing that I feel Paramount Trek could have dealt with a bit more and I am glad Rob and co did. Add to that a great mix of characters from McCabe and his assistant Onshul through to Vindenpawl and Kaart they all seem to have depth that can lack in some series. I am following this one with enthusiasm and cannot wait to see what the outcome is. Over all I love Hidden Frontier Productions efforts into the Star Trek universe, mainly cause it is the era I grew up with and also the storylines are great. With that in mind I am really looking forward to seeing what more can be produced by them in the future. So without further ado I would like to thank the many people behind all series that come from Hidden Frontier Productions and long may this continue. Richard

ISSUE 12 OF TCM FEATURES THE NEW SERIES STAR TREK PHOENIX

FEATURING INTERVIEWS WITH ALL MAIN CAST MEMBERS AND AN ARTICLE ABOUT THE SHOW BY EXCUTIVE PRODUCER LEO ROBERTS.

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ISSUE 6 OF TCM SUPPLEMENTAL TAKES A LOOK AT STAR TREK COMMANDERS PAST A PRESENT. FEATURING ARTICLES BY ALEX MATTHEWS AND RICHARD MILES

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