Act III

Chapter 49 First Seven Days

I don't own Captain America

Sunday, October 14, 1962

San Cristobal, Cuba

In the early morning hours on Sunday the fourteenth of October, the long black U-2 Dragon Lady spy plane with its considerably long straight wings cruised at over 72,000 feet above the Earth's surface. Chasing the rising sun, the U-2 flew high without leaving any contrails, making it completely invisible to the naked eye on the surface.

Flying overhead at 72,000 feet, one could almost see the curvature of the Earth. Traveling slowly in the sky, the U-2 was designed for long-range, ultra-high altitude, surveillance, taking pictures over a vast area with its powerful panoramic camera to provide American intelligence agencies and military of points of interest and targets. These U-2 overflight missions became standard practice at the start of the decade and kept a watchful eye over Castro's regime and Soviet activity in the country. Major Richard S. Heyser, the pilot in Command of this U-2 mission over San Cristobal, flew his routine flight in relative peace.

After penetrating Cuban air space mere moments ago, Heyser became exposed to at least two Soviet SA-2 SAM (Surface-to-Air Missile) sites as he flew deeper over the island. After a few minutes, he switched on his camera and took a series of photographs of his target area. Though he couldn't see what he photographed from the view from his scope, those pictures he made would make the world stand still. Immediately after his pass, without a pause, Heyser departed Cuban airspace, lingering over Cuba for less than seven minutes.


Steve & Margaret Rogers Residence, Scarsdale, NY

Peggy and Steve sat together on the couch in the family room, both quietly reading their respective books, and enjoying each other's company. Joining them in the family room and sprawled out on the floor is Angela, who's happily reading her own book. With quiet and soothing music playing on the radio, the room let off a peaceful ambiance. Outside in the large backyard was Sarah, playing with her dog, and in the front yard is John playing with his friends and other neighborhood kids. Michael, on the other hand, was in his room getting ready to go see his friend, Irena. Overall, it was just another quiet Sunday afternoon for the Rogers family.

Peggy smiled and spoke to her husband, eyes not leaving the page of her book, "Any plans for dinner, darling?"

Steve shook his head, his eyes not leaving the page of his book either, "I was thinking about going out."

"Me too because I don't want to cook." She finally looked up, "What do you have in mind?"

Steve put his book down and thought for a moment. He glanced at his wife, "How about Italian? The Villa?"

Peggy smiled, "Hm. I like the sound of that." She glanced over at Angela on the floor, "Angela, What do you think?"

Angela smiled at her mother, "I like that too."

Angela is now twelve and is in her first year of high school, a year behind her oldest siblings. Since she was able to skip the sixth grade, Angela made it to high school a year before the vast majority of kids her age. Though probably the youngest in school, she's also probably the smartest in her class.

Steve smirked, "Then it's settled, we'll go out to eat. Say in an hour or so?"

Peggy nodded, "Sounds good to me." She looked back at her daughter, "Angela, sweetie, can you tell your siblings of the plan."

Angela nodded and stood up, making a beeline to the backdoor to tell her older sister first.

As Angela left, Michael came into the family room, dressed in nice clothes consisting of a neatly pressed dress shirt, slacks, and polished shoes. Peggy instantly took notice to his look, "My, my, son, don't you look handsome. Got a date you haven't told us about?"

Michael chuckled and shook his head, "No, I was just asking if I can go out in about an hour to meet up with Irena. We want to watch a movie and stuff."

Both Michael and Sarah, now fourteen, are in their second year of high school, and Michael is now on the varsity football team as a Sophomore and starting quarterback for Scarsdale High School.

Steve laughed, "Sounds like a date."

"No, we're just friends, Dad. Trust me. We're just really close."

Peggy chuckled, "Sure. Just like how Sarah isn't popular with the boys at your school."

Michael sighed, "I'm telling you, we're just friends, Mom."

Peggy shrugged, "Okay, okay." She smirked, "But it's okay if you want to ask her on a date, okay? We won't be upset. You just have to tell us." She glanced over at Steve, "And that rule applies to Sarah too."

Sarah continued to serve in the band and the leadership classes and has become quite popular in school. As Sarah continues to bloom and grow as a beautiful young woman, she has attracted much attention from the boys in her class. Both she and her twin brother have become more and more popular in school over the years.

Steve rolled his eyes, "Pardon me for not trusting any of the boys who want to date my daughter."

"Little overprotective, darling," smiled Peggy.

Michael sighed, "Not asking her on a date, Mom. Just friends for the millionth time." He quickly changed the subject, "So can I go out in an hour?"

"Don't want to eat dinner with us? We're grabbing Italian," said Peggy.

"Is it okay if I just eat out with her?"

Peggy chuckled, "Sure, that's fine." She glanced at her husband, "Steve?"

Steve nodded, "Sure. Go have fun. We can drop you off wherever you want to meet her."

"Great! Thanks, Mom, Thanks, Dad," Michael said, walking away.

Suddenly the phone began to ring, prompting Peggy to close her book and stand up to answer it, "I'll get it."

At that moment, the back door slid open and in stepped Angela and Sarah, Athena, the German Shepard, bolting between them and into the family room toward Peggy to get attention from her. Peggy didn't get far when Athena stopped and jumped in front of her, begging her for attention.

Peggy chuckled and bent down to pet the dog, "Hi, beautiful girl," she said in a playful tone. "Did you have fun playing with Sarah outside?" Athena sat down and happily wagged her tail as she received pets and scratches behind her ears.

As Peggy gave attention to the family dog, she forgot about the phone ringing in the kitchen. Angela turned and strolled into the kitchen and called back to her mother, "I'll get the phone, Mama!"

Peggy looked up and smiled, "Oh, thank you, dear."

Sarah walked over into the family room to join her parents and smiled, "She has enough energy to even tire me out."

"I know, she's always so excited," Peggy laughed. Angela then returned into the family room, the phone still ringing in the kitchen, and stopped by her mother. Peggy looked up at her younger daughter with a confused look, "didn't answer the phone, sweetie?"

"It's your work phone," Angela responded evenly. "You said not to answer it when it rings."

Peggy stood up and looked back at Steve, confused, "My work phone?"

Steve cocked his head to the side, "Must be important if someone from SHIELD is calling you on the secured line on a Sunday."

"Must be," She responded, the phone still ringing from the kitchen. She then quickly walked away from her family to answer it.

Angela looked over at her Dad, "Dad, is everything okay?"

Steve shrugged, "I don't know. I'm sure everything is okay, though," he said, reassuring his daughter though he understood that calls from Peggy's work phone are never good.

In the kitchen, Peggy answered the phone that was tucked in the corner of the counter by the pantry. "Director Rogers," she briskly answered.

A man on the other end of the line spoke in a calm tone, "Director, this is Agent Fischer from the Tempest." The Tempest is the regional SHIELD headquarters in Washington DC, located close to the White House. "Is your line secure?"

"Yes, what's going on?" she asked evenly.

"U-2 photographs of Cuba came back earlier today with some troubling photos. CIA and SHIELD analysts at NPIC (National Photographic Interpretation Center) believe they discovered Russian ballistic missiles in Cuba."

Peggy took a step back, "Ballistic missiles?" She looked back into the family room to make sure none of her family heard her and saw everyone distracted with Athena. Satisfied no one overheard her, she whispered, "Are they sure?"

"Yes, Ma'am. They're both in agreement and they believe it's the SS-4 Sandal missiles capable of ranges of up to 2,000 miles and carry capacity of a three megaton warhead."

"Oh my God," Peggy only managed to say.

The truth was that SHIELD and the CIA have long suspected Soviet plans to forward deploy ballistic missiles into Cuba. Repeated sightings of Soviet MIGs, vehicles, and SAM sites around Cuba gave the two agencies cause for suspicion. However, those alone didn't scream the presence of nuclear weapons but rather a Soviet deployment of conventional arms to the Castro regime. The primary source of uneasiness came with the orientation of the SAM sites and SHIELD's discovery of Soviet high altitude defense systems. The air defenses were oriented, in a way much like in the Soviet Union, to protect their ballistic missile sites.

Peggy and CIA Director, John A. McCone, were both suspicious and they co-wrote an unprecedented, joint agency, memo to warn the President. That was one of the rare occasions where SHIELD and the CIA are in agreement, which is never a good sign.

Agent Fischer continued, "We're working with the CIA to notify the essentials. That said, your needed in DC for a national security meeting either later today or some time tomorrow."

Peggy nodded, "Got it, thank you." She took a slight pause, quickly thinking about the situation, "I want the situation room in the Tempest to be ready with all our intelligence on Cuba and Soviet deployments there by the time I arrive. I'll leave as soon as possible."

"Understood, Director."

With that, Peggy hung up the phone and sighed. Realization of what she just heard started to sink into her mind. With Soviet missiles in Cuba, they can nearly hit any part of the United States that they chose. The fear of nuclear annihilation has always been present since the Soviets acquired the bomb. But with Soviet missiles in their backyard, it made that terror feel much closer to home. Literally.

Peggy frowned and looked at a small family photograph on the counter and stared at the smiling faces of her four kids and her husband. Fear of what's to come settled in her mind for a moment. She shook her head and called her husband, "Steve, can you come here, please?"

"Yeah," Steve called from the family room, quickly heading over to his wife. As he neared Peggy, he noticed the very subtle signs in her demeanor and posture that revealed she was worried about something. Signs only those who knew her very well could see. Steve frowned and whispered as he stopped by his wife, "Hey, everything, okay?"

Peggy silently shook her head.

Steve stepped closer and whispered, "What's wrong, Peg?"

Peggy whispered in a low voice, "U-2 overflights of Cuba spotted nuclear missiles." Though protocol states that she doesn't talk about the situation with anyone until directed, she didn't mind telling her husband since he still holds a "Top Secret" clearance.

"In Cuba?" Steve expressed a little too loudly. He caught himself and returned to a whisper, "Are you sure?"

"SHIELD and CIA analysts both agree. And we never agree with each other. In fact, we both suspected something like this, but it's still coming as a surprise."

Steve ran a hand through his hair, "Oh my God."

Peggy sighed, "I'm needed in DC. National Security Council will brief the President either this evening or tomorrow."

"Of course, do what you need to do." Steve shook his head and rested his hands on his hips, "Nuclear weapons in Cuba. I can't fathom that…"

Peggy frowned, "I can hardly believe it too even though I had my suspicions." She shook her head, "I'd rather be wrong than the Soviets parking weapons of mass destruction in our backyard."

"You and SHIELD only had suspicions? Nothing solid to act upon?"

Peggy nodded, "Nothing concrete. From the air and our limited surface assets in Cuba, it seemed like the Soviets were only supplying Castro with conventional weapons. But there were signs that they might be building nuclear launchers by the orientation and presence of their air defenses. It wasn't a lot to go on, but McCone and I warned the President anyway. Obviously, we didn't act upon it."

"Yeah..."

Peggy shook her head, "And the President just told the public not too long ago that the Soviets weren't putting missiles in Cuba."

"I can't believe this. I literally can't wrap my head around it." He glanced back into the family room and seeing the kids talking and smiling amongst themselves. "Our kids…those missiles… do you know how many?"

Peggy shook her head again, "I don't know. I didn't get much from the phone call."

Steve smirked nervously, "Yeah, I don't know why I asked that." He shrugged, "I'm worried. Just a handful of missiles can wipeout the entire eastern seaboard."

"I know," Peggy responded evenly.

"Stupid."

"What?" Peggy asked, raising a brow.

"This situations reminds me a little of Schmidt's Valkyrie mission where he wanted to use his special weapons to bomb the United States," said Steve. He sadly chuckled, "A little too familiar."

Peggy frowned, "I don't want to think about that time."

Steve looked back at the kids again, "I'm worried. I—"

"I know, darling. I'm scared too," Peggy said, wrapping her arm around her husband. They shared a brief quiet moment together before Peggy had to get ready for her trip. She sighed, "Darling, I need to get all my things. Can you—"

Steve interrupted, "Do what you need to do. I'll take care of the kids while you're gone. You don't have to worry about us." He smiled, "Do what you do best, hon."

Peggy leaned forward and kissed her husband, "I love you, Steve. Thank you."

"I love you," Steve responded. "Is it possible to give me updates with what's going on? We would be left in the dark while you and the government try to figure things out."

Peggy nodded, "If I get a chance, I'll call you. You still have the security clearance, so I'm sure it'll be fine."

"Okay, thank you."

Peggy frowned, "I don't what you to tell the kids. Not until it's released to the press. Because it eventually will."

"I won't."

Peggy nodded, "Right. I have to get everything ready. Really this time."

Steve leaned down and kissed his wife on the cheek, "I'll get the kids together for a family meeting. I'm assuming you want to tell them you're leaving yourself right?"

"Yes, thank you, Steve." With that, Steve turned and walked back to the family room to gather the kids for a family meeting.

Peggy turned back to her work phone and picked up the handset, "Operator," she said, talking to the SHIELD communication switchboard controllers. "This is the Director. Connect me to the Aegis Headquarters Ops Center, please." After a moment, the phone line connected, and she heard the ringing tone over the phone.

It didn't take long for someone to answer, "Ops, this is Agent Holten."

"Agent Holten, this is Director Rogers."

"What can I do for you, Director?"

Peggy looked back into the family room and saw all her kids minus John gathering around Steve. "I need a priority flight to DC to leave as soon as possible, and need transportation to the airport."

"Got it. I'll get the motorcade to you and contact the wing for immediate departure," said the agent.

"Thank you." Peggy pressed the receiver, cutting the call and connecting her back to the SHIELD switchboard controllers. "Operator, connect me to Deputy Director Daniel Sousa, please." The phone line connected, and again, Peggy waited patiently as the ringing tone buzzed in her ear.

The phone connected and Peggy instantly heard Daniel's voice on the other side, "Sousa."

"Daniel, it's me," greeted Peggy.

"Hey, Boss. This must be important for you to call me on here. What's going on?" said Daniel.

Peggy spoke in a hushed tone to make sure her family didn't hear her, "We have a situation. Soviets have put ballistic missiles in Cuba."

"You're kidding."

"Unfortunately, no."

Daniel sighed, "Oh my God." There was a slight pause, "What do you need me to do?"

"I'm heading to DC in a little bit. I need you to take control of the situation in the ops center while I'm gone," directed Peggy.

"On it."

Peggy rested a hand on her hip as she spoke, "Be prepared for two things. First, get as much intelligence from our assets in the Soviet Union on how many missiles and other weapons they plan to ship to Cuba. And second, we need more eyes inside Cuba."

"I'll get on it," Daniel responded instantly.

"I'll be in contact with you while I'm in DC."

"Understood. Good luck, Peggy."

Peggy smiled, "You too. Give my love to Angie and the kids for me."

"I will."

With that, Peggy hung up the phone and made her way back to the family room to talk to her family before she packed. As she crossed the threshold into the family room, she noticed her whole family waiting for her on the couches, including John, who was still sweating from playing outside.

Peggy walked around one of the couches and sat down on the armrest next to Steve and Angela. She frowned, "So the reason your father called everyone for a family meeting is because I've been called to go on an unexpected business trip to DC." She paused, "I'll be gone for a little bit, and I leave today."

Sarah raised a brow, "That's really sudden," she stated plainly.

John frowned, "Mom, why do you have to go so suddenly?" Now nine years old, John is in the fourth grade and still his usual adventurous and talkative self.

Peggy frowned, "There's an emergency at work, darling. I'm sorry. It can't be helped that I have to go." John's shoulders slumped in disappointment.

Sarah spoke up again, "What kind of an emergency? Is there any danger?"

Peggy maintained a straight face, "No, everything is okay. It's just some important photos they need me to take a look at." Though it wasn't the entire truth, she hated lying to her kids. Even a little bit.

Michael raised a brow, "Must be really troubling photos if they needed you all the way back to DC on a Sunday."

Peggy shrugged and wrapped her arm around Steve and leaned into his shoulder, "We'll see. As you know, I can't talk much about it, but I'm sure we'll work it out."

Angela frowned, crossed her arms, and leaned back against the couch, "Would you tell us if it wasn't," she said in a harsh tone.

Steve shot Angela a stern look and pinched her leg, "Angela, mind your tone when you're talking to your mother," he hissed.

"Ow," Angela cringed. "Sorry. I just…"

Peggy made a small smile, "I know, sweetheart. I know it's confusing when I have to leave so suddenly. And I'm sure it bothers all of you that I can't always talk about what's going on or what I'm doing, but I'm sorry that I can't talk much about it or clarify your questions all the time." She frowned, "I know it isn't much, but I hope you'll eventually understand why I have to do these things."

Peggy didn't have many sudden business trips where she left in a hurry, but when she did, it never sat well with the kids, particularly John and Angela.

Sarah nodded, "We know, Mom. We understand in our own way." Steve smiled proudly at his daughter.

"You know a little bit of what I do at work, but there are things I just can't tell you about. Not yet at least," Peggy said evenly. She stood up from her spot on the armrest and walked around Steve to squat down in front of Angela. Peggy placed her hands on her daughter's lap and made a small smile, "I know I promised to teach you how to do crafts with dried plants, but Mama has to go to work. I'm sorry, I have to go, darling. I hope you can forgive me and understand why I have to go."

Angela didn't say anything but nod.

Peggy stood up and kissed her twelve-year-old on the cheek, "I'll be back before you know it, and then we'll do crafts together, okay?"

"Okay," Angela said with a frown.

Peggy smiled, "I love you."

"I love you too, Mama," replied Angela.

John suddenly shot off the couch and ran over to give his mother a hug, colliding into her, gripping her dress, and causing her to slightly jump in surprise. Peggy smiled and returned the hug, kissing him on the top of the head as she embraced him. John didn't say anything as he held onto his mother.

Peggy smiled, "John, I'll be back. I promise."

John leaned back and frowned, "You have to go so quick."

"I know, but it'll only be for a little bit."

John nodded.

"I love you, sweetheart. I'll be back soon."

"I love you too, Mama," John said, hugging his mother one more time before letting go.

Steve stood up and nodded to his wife, "You should hurry up and pack before your ride gets here. The kids will be here to see you go."

Peggy nodded at him, "Thanks, Honey." With that, she walked off to get ready.


A little while later, with the SHIELD motorcade waiting in front of the house, Peggy, now dressed in a black business suit and skirt, stepped out onto the front porch with her briefcase in hand, ready to go for her trip. Steve stood by her side, carrying her suitcase and garment bag to take to the cars. The kids also joined him outside to see their mother off on her trip.

Peggy glanced at the luggage her husband was carrying, "I can manage the bags, Steve."

Steve shook his head, "No, no, I got it. I'll take it to the cars."

"Okay, thank you, hon," she smiled. But before saying goodbye to her family, Peggy glanced at the SHIELD motorcade to see her driver standing between the open trunk and the rear passenger door, waiting patiently for her.

Peggy sighed and looked away from the small column of black government cars and back at her children. John frowned, "Is it time to go now, Mama?"

"I'm afraid so, darling." John quickly bolted forward and hugged his mother in a tight embrace. Peggy smiled and bent down, placing her briefcase on the patio, and returned his hug. After a moment, she let go of him, kissing him on the cheek, and said, "I won't be gone too long, sweetheart. Mama loves you. Now, be good for Daddy and your siblings, okay?"

John nodded, "I will."

John took a step back to allow Angela to say goodbye too. Peggy smiled, "Are you still upset at me, darling?"

Angela shook her head, "I wasn't upset. I was just…"

"It's okay. I didn't want to leave you in a bad mood is all." Peggy nodded, "come here." Angela stepped forward and wrapped her arms around her mother in a tight hug. "I love you, Angela," she said, kissing her on the cheek.

"I love you too, Mama," Angela replied.

Peggy reluctantly let go of her daughter and stood up, "I'll be back before you know it." Angela nodded. Peggy then glanced over at her twins, "Take care of your siblings for me, and help your Dad out when I'm away. You know the drill," she said with a smile.

Michael nodded, "We know, Mom. Good luck in DC. Whatever is going on, we know you can fix it." With that, he stepped forward and gave his mother a tight hug.

Peggy smiled and kissed his cheek, "Thank you, Michael."

"I love you, Mom, good luck," Michael said, letting go of his mom.

"And I love you, darling."

Sarah nodded, "What he said, except show those men in the White House what you can do. Go kick some butt, Mom."

Peggy laughed and hugged her oldest daughter and kissing her on the cheek. "I love you, Sarah. Take good care of everyone while I'm away."

"I love you too, Mom, and I will. Good luck," Sarah said, letting go of her mother.

Peggy picked up her briefcase and smiled at her family, "I'll see you soon."

She then glanced at Steve who smiled, "Ready?"

"Ready," Peggy nodded. With that, the couple walked off the porch and headed down the path to the waiting motorcade.

When they got to the cars, Steve immediately walked over to the back of the car and gently placed her luggage in the trunk. Peggy stopped by the open rear passenger door and glanced at the driver, "We can manage thank you, Agent. I'll only be a moment."

The driver nodded, "Yes, Director," he said, walking back to the driver side.

Steve walked over to his wife and nodded, "Well, keep me posted about what's happening if you can."

Peggy smiled, "I will."

Steve placed his hands on her hips, "Good luck, hon."

Peggy took a step forward and kissed him on the lips, "I love you."

"I love you too."

Peggy sighed as she looked back at the porch and saw her kids watching them. "I hate leaving them. That's the hardest thing about these trips," she said with a frown.

"I know. But we'll be here waiting for you."

Peggy smiled and kissed him again. She broke the kiss and frowned, "Hopefully, we won't find ourselves in a war by the end of the week," she said morbidly.

"I'm placing my bets on the woman who never quits," Steve said, referring to her.

"Pray for us, darling. Pray that this doesn't turn into something worse."

"I will."

Peggy smiled, "And tuck the kids in for me."

Steve chuckled, "I will."

Peggy kisses her husband one last time before getting into the car, waving to her kids as she closed the door, the kids returning the wave. Steve remained on the sidewalk as the motorcade pulled away from the curb and quickly drove off down the road.

Steve rubbed the back of his neck as he watched the motorcade drive out of sight. He didn't move and continued to stare down the road even though Peggy's motorcade was no longer in view. He sighed as he began to think about the news Peggy told him about the nuclear missiles in Cuba. The threat those missiles posed not only to his family but to the country was real and there was literally nothing he can do to help protect his family against nuclear missiles. Maybe except to make a fallout shelter in their backyard like the President advised not too long ago, and a lot of other families and even his neighbors did, but in reality, he knew that wouldn't save any of them.

At the time, the President publicly advised families, "to maintain the best attainable protection against the major effects of thermonuclear attack." Steve and Peggy thought making or investing in home fallout shelters would only frighten their kids unnecessarily and wasn't realistically feasible. Not feasible because most advertised commercial fallout shelters lacked the protection from radiation. Unfortunate. The only way Rogers would survive a nuclear blast is if SHIELD had a specially designed fallout shelter in their basement, which they don't.

It wouldn't matter anyway because a nuclear missile strike from Cuba would only give them a few minutes warning at best.

Sarah walked over to her Dad, "Hey, Dad. Everything okay?"

Steve shook his head and smiled at his daughter, "Yeah."

"It's never a good thing when Mom has to go to work suddenly, huh?" Sarah furrowed her brows, "But this trip seems different. More urgent. Are you sure everything is okay? Really though?"

Steve wrapped his arm around his daughter's shoulders, "Everything will be okay. I assure you. Whatever it is, I'm sure it'll turn out just fine," he said trying to mask the truth.

Sarah laughed, "You're a horrible liar, Dad. But I'll believe you that everything will be okay."

"Alright, alright." Steve chuckled,

"Are we still going out to eat?" asked Sarah, changing the subject.

"Yeah, why not? Heck might as well go watch a movie too. We can annoy Michael at the theaters," joked Steve.

Sarah laughed, "Sounds good. What movie?"

"We'll ask your siblings."

"I vote The Longest Day."

Steve cringed, "I don't know about that one."

"Awe, come on Dad," pleaded, Sarah.

Steve chuckled as he and Sarah began to head back to the porch, "Fine, I'll think about it."


Monday, October 15, 1962

White House, Washington DC

President John F. Kennedy, his brother, Attorney General Robert "Bobby" F. Kennedy, and Special Assistant to the President, Kenneth O'Donnell, walked side by side down the hall toward the cabinet room. The trio wore a look of apprehension as they walked quickly down the corridor as they were just recently briefed of the situation in Cuba only a few hours ago. The three men were on their way to an emergency national security meeting to determine a preliminary course of action and hear any new information concerning the missiles. Neither of the three men was looking forward to the news, and they fully expected all of it to be bad.

As the President rounded the corner to the cabinet room, a Secret Service agent opened the door, revealing the dozens of members of the national security council, their aids, and secretaries. The moment the President walked in, the room fell silent and everyone stood up. "Good morning, ladies and gentlemen," the President greeted as he walked around the long table to his spot at the center in front of the windows.

"Good morning, Mr. President," everyone greeted.

As President Kennedy made his way to his seat, Robert Kennedy walked over to his seat which was located next to Peggy's and stood by her. "Good morning, Peggy," he calmly greeted her.

Peggy, dressed professionally in a black pant suit with a white blouse, nodded, "Good to see you, Bobby," she replied.

"Likewise. Unfortunately, not in the greatest of circumstances," the younger Kennedy said with a frown. Peggy nodded silently in response.

Peggy is the only woman at the table. The only other women in the room are secretaries and aids for the men in the room who sat on the chairs lining the walls.

The President stopped by his seat and nodded at his Secretary of Defense, Robert McNamara, "Bob. Have a late evening?" He implied, knowing that McNamara heard about the Cuban news late last night.

McNamara smiled, "Sleep is for the weak, Mr. President," he said jokingly, moving around the President to his seat.

General Maxwell Davenport Taylor, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, clad in his dress uniform like all the other military men in the room, greeted the President, "Mr. President."

"Max," the President simply responded.

General Taylor began making his way back to his seat on the other side of the table, "CIA director has been notified, McColm is on his way from the West coast, he's been burying his stepson." He stopped by his seat which was also next to Peggy, "General Carter is here though and the SHIELD director."

The President took his seat, which prompted everyone to sit down after him. Everyone, including the President, began to open the dossiers in front of them to get ready for the brief. The President leaned back in his chair and nodded, "Okay. Let' have it."

Arthur Charles Lundahl, head and founder of NPIC, and his two assistants stood at the head of the table with a presentation board on a stand featuring a map of Cuba. "Lady and gentleman, as most of you now know, a U-2 over Cuba, Sunday Morning took a series of disturbing photographs. Our analysis over at NPIC indicates that the Soviet Union has followed up their conventional weapons buildup in Cuba with introduction of surface-to-surface, medium range ballistic missiles, or MRBMs."

Peggy and Robert Kennedy shared an uneasy look as they listened to Lundahl brief the situation.

"Our official estimate at this time, is that this missile system is the SS-4 Sandal. We do not believe the missiles are as yet operational. Analysts, however, report that the SS-4 can deliver a three megaton nuclear weapon a thousand miles. So far, we've identified thirty-two missiles serviced by about 3,400 men, undoubtedly all Soviet Personnel." Lundahl turned around and nodded at the board, prompting one of his aids to remove the map of Cuba, revealing a map of Cuba and the United States that showed the range of the missiles. "Cities and military installations in the Southeast as far north as Washington, D.C., are in range of these weapons. And in the event of a launch, we would only have five minutes of warning."

Lieutenant General Marshall Carter, Army General and Deputy Director of the Central Intelligence Agency, spoke up, "Five minutes, gentlemen."

General Taylor leaned forward on the table, "In those five minutes, the Soviets can kill 80-million Americans. And destroy a significant percentage of our bomber bases, degrading our retaliatory options." He nodded, "The Joint Chiefs' consensus, Mr. President, is that this signals a major doctrinal shift in Soviet thinking. To a first strike policy. It's a massively destabilizing move."

President Kennedy leaned back in his chair and frowned, uncomfortable and uneasy about these further details.

Peggy spoke up, "How long until they're operational?"

Lundahl shrugged, "General Taylor can answer that better than I could."

General Taylor put on his glasses and looked down at the file he brought with him from the Pentagon, "Guided Missiles Intelligence Committee estimated 10 to 14 days. Crash program can limit that time." He looked up at everyone at the table, "However, I must stress that uh there might be more missiles. That we don't know about. We need more U-2 coverage."

The mood in the room was tense and was filled with a feeling of uneasiness. The stark reality of nuclear missiles that close to the United States put everyone on edge.

The President tapped his finger on the table, "I need first reactions here. Assuming, for a moment, that Khrushchev has not gone off the deep end and intends to start WWIII, what are we looking at?"

Dean Rusk, Secretary of State, spoke up first, "Mr. President, I believe my team is in agreement. If we permit the introduction of nuclear missiles to a Soviet satellite nation in our hemisphere, the diplomatic consequences will be too terrible to contemplate." He leaned forward on the table, "The Russians are trying to show the world that they can do whatever they want, wherever they want, and we're powerless to stop them. If they succeed—"

"It'll be Munich all over again," Robert Kennedy interjected.

"Yes. Appeasement only makes the aggressor more aggressive." Robert Kennedy locked eyes with his brother in silent discomfort. "And the Soviets will be embolden to push us even harder. Now, we must remove the missiles one way or another. What it seems to me is that our options are some combination of international pressure and action on our part 'till they give in, or we hit them. An airstrike."

Peggy turned uneasy about the possibility of military force against Cuba.

The President looked over at McNamara, "Bob?"

McNamara leaned forward and spoke up, "We worked up several military scenarios." He glanced over at General Taylor, "Before I ask General Taylor to take us through the several military options, I'd like for us to adopt a rule. If we decide to strike, we must agree now to do it before the missiles become operational. Once they are, I don't think we can guarantee getting them all before at least…at least some of them are launched."

The President sighed, "Well, it's clear we cannot permit the Soviet missiles in Cuba." He paused and shook his head, "We have to get those missiles out."

Peggy nodded and leaned back in her chair and thought of different ways to remove the missiles without military force. Diplomacy would take too long and allow more time for the missiles to be operational. But military force as the alternative would inevitably lead to war with the Soviet Union. However, she and McNamara came up with a scenario a few months ago, but she didn't take the scenario as a serious resolution to the problem. Sadly, her own initial thoughts on the matter saw only military force as a viable option though a terrible idea. She was sure that the majority of the men in the room also felt a military strike was the best initial course of action. But there had to be another way.


Shortly after the meeting, the President, Robert Kennedy, and Kenneth O'Donnell stepped out onto the West Colonnade and discussed amongst themselves about the Cuban situation. The President put his hands in his pockets and shook his head as he stared out at the rose garden, "Now, I don't think it's going to matter what Khrushchev's intentions are." He paused in silence as he walked down the path. The President shook his head, "I can tell you right now, I don't see any way around hitting them."

O'Donnell frowned in disagreement, "Look, if we hit them and kill a lot of Russians, they'll move against Berlin. They attack Berlin, that's NATO, and we're at war."

Robert Kennedy shook his head too, "We're damned if we do, but if we don't, we're in a war for sure somewhere else in six months."

"Well, if there are alternatives," The President began. "And I'm not saying there are, then we need them, and we need them fast."

"Now what about Congress? Now, I think we need to start letting key people now, and they're all scattered around the country for the campaign."

O'Donnell nodded, "We can get Congress back."

Robert continued, "And we need to get the UN moving. And what about the allies?"

The President shook his head, "We can't start worrying about everything right now. We have to figure out what we're going to do before we worry about how to do it."

There was a slight pause in the conversation as the three men thought what to do next. After a moment, Robert Kennedy spoke up, "Well, we got a bunch of smart guys, we lock them in a room, and kick 'em in the ass until they come up with some solutions." He paused, "Uhm. I'll head it." He shrugged, "It'll be the principles and couple of the key guys from each department. The executive committee of the National Security Council." Robert nodded, "Call it… EXCOMM."

The President looked out to the rose garden for a moment and thought about it. After a second or two, he looked back at Robert and O'Donnell, "Okay. So, I'm only going to show up to the meeting you call me into." He nodded, "Impress us. And do it fast."

The President stepped over to O'Donnell, "Kenny, you'll be in charge of keeping this quiet. If word gets out before we know what we're going to do, then there's going to be panic. Panic is going to ruin any chance of surprise if we decide to hit them."

O'Donnell nodded and removed a notebook and pen from his coat, "We're going to need to do a few things right away. No Pierre." Pierre Salinger is the White House Press Secretary. "If he knows, the press knows." He began to write details into his notebook, "And you have to keep up your schedule. Your movements are followed too closely."

Robert spoke up, "I think we need to bring in Dean Acheson." O'Donnell frowned and looked away in disagreement. Dean Acheson was the former Secretary of State for President Truman and played a central role in American foreign policy during the start of the Cold War. "Ken, he was fighting Soviets while you and I were still playing ball in school."

O'Donnell shook his head, "We have Peggy." He pointed to the cabinet room, "She has more experience, let alone the most recent experience, in dealing with the Soviets than he does. She's probably going to be more help in advising us what to do."

Robert shook his head, "It wouldn't hurt."

"You guys do know that Director Rogers doesn't get along with Acheson, right?"

The President nodded, "Find him, Ken. We're going to need all the help we can get. They're going to have to put their differences aside for this."


Tuesday, October 16, 1961

The next night, EXCOMM met in secret in the cabinet room of the White House, which included everyone from the National Security Council, Dean Acheson, and other advisors the President deemed necessary. The President was present for this first late-night meeting to hear the military plan from the joint chiefs. So far, it's been a long meeting, let alone night, with most of the men slouching in their chairs and their suit jackets off and draped over their chairs.

General Walter Sweeney, Commanding General of Tactical Air Command, stood at the head of the table with a map of southern United States and Cuba, and pointed to the southern states that held Airforce planes in position to strike Cuba. "We have 850 planes assembling at Homestead, Eglin, Opa-Locka, MacDill, Patrick, Pensacola, and Key West." He nodded to the President and Secretary of Defense, "Due to the tropical foliage, the operation calls for high explosive and napalm loadouts for our ground attack sorties."

Adlai Stevenson, an old man and Ambassador to the United Nations, sighed and shook his head, looking directly at the President, "I still think there are diplomatic approaches we haven't considered yet."

McGeorge Bundy, National Security Advisor, an average-sized blonde man with glasses, took a puff from his cigarette and blew out the smoke, "Jesus, Adlai, peace at any price? They have a gun to our head."

Robert Kennedy leaned back, "It seems that mostly everyone agrees that the diplomatic route is too slow."

Peggy leaned back and remained silent as she listened to everyone discuss their next steps. She was probably one of the few in the room to think military strikes were a tremendously bad idea. At least a bad first resort. Though she initially thought the military option was the most viable, she changed her mind. She figured the best way to resolve this situation is through diplomacy because it was the one that would not spark a war outright. It might be the slowest option, but it was the one that would keep the peace the longest.

General Taylor stood up, "We have high confidence in the expanded airstrikes, Mr. President. The problem is, sir, is that it's a short term solution. Khrushchev can send in more missiles next month." He nodded, "The chiefs and I believe, we should follow up the airstrikes with a full version of Op Plan 316."

"Invasion," The President said simply.

"We can be sure to get all the missiles, and we remove Castro so this can never happen again."

The President leaned back in his seat, "And this is the Joint Chief's recommendation?"

"Yes, sir. Our best option as Bob pointed out this morning," General Taylor began, glancing over at McNamara as he spoke. "Would to commence the strikes before the missiles become operational. The invasion happens eight days later."

The President sighed and leaned forward, looking over at Dean Acheson, "Dean, uh, what do you think?"

Dean Acheson, an older man with greying hair and a thick mustache, leaned forward on the table and looked at everyone at the table, "Gentlemen, for the last fifteen years, I fought here at this table alongside your predecessors in the struggle against the Soviet."

The room was silent, and all eyes were on Acheson as he spoke in a very calm manner.

"Now, I do not wish to seem melodramatic, but I do wish to impress upon you a lesson I learned with bitter tears and great sacrifice." Acheson tapped his hand on the table to emphasize his point, "The Soviet understands only one language—Action. Respects only one word—Force." He glances at General Taylor then back at the President, "I concur with General Taylor. I recommend, sir, airstrikes followed by invasion."

Robert Kennedy glanced over at Peggy then back at Acheson. The President, himself, not breaking eye contact from the former Secretary of State as he delivered his recommendation.

"Perhaps preceded by an ultimatum to dismantle the missiles," Acheson said. He looked up at General Taylor, "If that is militarily viable." General Taylor nodded silently in response.

The President glanced over at Peggy, "Peggy. What about you? Any thoughts on the matter?"

A handful of the men in the room to include Dean Acheson and McGeorge Bundy looked at each other with uneasy expressions at the President's interest in the opinion of the only female in the room. Though Peggy proved herself time and time again, especially her stance against the Bay of Pigs fiasco, she was still looked down upon as someone who didn't belong on the National Security Council solely because of her gender. Regardless, Peggy remained confident and refused to be discouraged from doing her job. As long as the President listens to her, that's all that matters.

Peggy shook her head, "In contrary to what Dean said, I don't believe the military option should be the first resort to remove the missiles but rather the last." She fixed her suit and leaned forward on the table, "From my own experience with dealing with Soviet espionage, the vast majority of their power comes from the perception of their power. Meaning, and as we mentioned earlier this morning, they want you to believe they have the ability to do whatever they want, and we're powerless to stop them. It's all what they want us to believe."

Dean Acheson eyed her carefully as she spoke.

"However, I'm in the opinion that given enough international pressure, the Soviets will undoubtedly back off. For example, our airlift operations in Berlin in '48, which resulted in the end of the Soviet blockade of Berlin. A mix of directive and stern negotiations, international pressure from Western powers, and our tenacious support of West Berliners forced the Soviets to lift their year-long blockade of the city."

Peggy nodded, "I believe, Mr. President, that aggressive negotiations and international pressure would be the best course of action to stop the Soviets from forward deploying nuclear weapons in Cuba and to withdraw them." Adlai Stevenson smiled and nodded in agreement. "The hardest part would be negotiating the removal of the missiles they have currently there, not so much stopping them from delivering more." She sighed, "But, I also believe we keep the military option as a contingency plan. As an absolute last resort."

Bundy shook his head, "If perception is what they want, what makes you think political means would work? They can just refuse negotiations and continue with what they're doing."

Peggy nodded, "Yes, they could, however, but it's like a game of Poker or, more extremely, a game of chicken. Make bluffs, call theirs, and observe if they flinch." She leaned back, "We have to be forceful in negotiations and direct for the political track to work. We also can't be divided going into this course of action, or anything we do for that matter, nor show a hint of hesitation because they'll use that against us and perceive us as weak."

Everyone took a moment and thought about what she said.

The President then spoke up, tapping his finger on the table, "So it appears we have four options. Number one—a surgical air strike against the missiles themselves." Everyone looked at the President as he repeated the options. "Two—a much larger airstrike against their air defenses along with the missiles, and three—invasion. Then fourth—a political track." The President shook his head, "We're certainly going to do number one. We're going to take these missiles out."

Peggy didn't agree but remained silent as the President spoke, keeping a passive look on her face.

"It seems to me we can't wait very long. We should at least be making those preparations."

General Taylor sat down in his seat, "We're preparing to implement all three options. Though I must stress again, sir, there are risks to the strikes without the follow-on invasion."

Bundy sat forward and tapped the table, "You want to be clear, Mr. President, that we've definitely decided against the political track," he said, shooting Peggy and Adlai a quick glance.

Again, everyone in the room looked to the President to hear his decision on what to do next.

The President remained stoic and glanced over at Dean Acheson, "Dean, uh, how does this all play out?"

Acheson leaned forward, "Your first step, sir, will to demand the Soviet to withdraw the missiles within twelve hours to twenty-four hours." He glanced at Peggy, "They'll refuse." Acheson looked back at the President, "And when they do, you'll order the strikes followed by the invasion. They will resist and be overrun. They will retaliate against another target somewhere else in the world, most likely Berlin."

Robert Kennedy and Peggy leaned back and eyed Acheson with apprehension. The scenario he was saying would spark World War III, and the results of such a conflict are nearly unthinkable. They both knew that WWIII would involve a nuclear exchange and guarantee mutually assured destruction or MAD with the Soviet Union.

Acheson continued, "We'll honor our treat commitments and resist them there, defeating them per our plans."

President Kennedy responded, "Those plans call for the use of nuclear weapons." Acheson leaned back and crossed his arms as he just stared at the President.

United States military at that time relied on an all-out nuclear strike to respond to a Soviet attack, which would undoubtedly kill Soviet military forces and civilians. The Soviet strategy was nearly identical with their use of a nuclear deterrent to destroy the enemy's military, more than likely the United States, and also the enemy's will to fight, which would bring civilians as viable targets. Thus, both sides saw the nondiscriminatory exchange of weapons of mass destruction as a means to ensure victory. Both sides saw the use of their deterrents to prevent retaliation and escalation by holding each other's cities hostage to follow-on strikes. In the end, a war between the Soviet Union and the United States would undoubtedly lead to nuclear annihilation.

Unfortunately, many of the men in the room with the President didn't see themselves falling victim to a nuclear end but saw themselves overcoming the Soviet threat. They could only see what they want to happen and not what could happen.

The President shook his head, "So, what is the, uh, next step?"

"Hopefully, cooler heads will prevail before we reach the next step," Acheson simply said.

Peggy slightly shook her head in disagreement. She couldn't believe what Acheson was saying and what he was proposing. Peggy couldn't even understand that he was hoping for the Soviets to have "cooler heads" after the Americans start a war and threaten to use nuclear weapons on them. Khrushchev wasn't a calm person, and he would for sure retaliate against the United States. Cooler heads won't prevail once the war starts.

The President paused for a moment that seemed like forever before he shook his head and stood up, "Thank you, gentlemen. Thank you, Peggy," he said, adjourning the meeting.

Everyone looked at the President with a mix of confusion and surprise as they stood up. They all watched in silence as the President, Robert Kennedy, and Kenneth O'Donnell left the room, leaving them in a state of confusion. All the members of the meeting, including Peggy, thought the President was going to announce his initial course of action today.

A little while after the President left, Dean Acheson, General Taylor, McGeorge Bundy, and two other General officers part of the Chiefs of Staff walked out of the cabinet room and into the hallway. Acheson sighed, stopping in the middle of the corridor, "What happened in there?"

General Taylor shook his head, "I thought he was going to give us his decision."

Acheson rolled his eyes, "It's that damn Director of SHIELD giving him the idea that diplomacy is the best option for this situation. The right decision is so clear in her face that she rather talk it out with the Soviets." He frowned, "Women and talking things out. That's all they want to do."

Bundy shook his head, "She was the only one who opposed the Bay of Pigs, the President trusts her." He nodded, "But, I know the Kennedys. They just need to know that there's no other way. They'll get there regardless of what the Director of SHIELD says."

"Remember that Kennedy's father was one of the architects of Munich," Acheson mentioned. President Kennedy's father, Joseph Kennedy, was one of the key players in appeasing Adolf Hitler in the Munich Conference in 1939 that inevitably paved the way for World War II. "There's only one responsible choice here, so let's hope appeasement doesn't run in families. I fear weakness does."

The Generals and Bundy shared a troubling look with each other.

Before Acheson left, he paused and looked at Bundy, "We need to either find a way to get Ms. Rogers on board with the military plan or discredit her. But she said it herself; it's an option. We just need to convince her that it's the best option."

Bundy shook his head, "Easier said than done."

Acheson shook his head, "Well, let's hope the Kennedys make the right decision then."


In the Oval Office, President Kennedy leaned back on his desk and sighed in frustration, taking a sip of his glass of whiskey given to him by O'Donnell. Robert Kennedy sat on one of the white couches and looked through the U-2 photographs of the missiles while O'Donnell stood by the President, both men drinking glasses of whiskey. The atmosphere in the room was tense after the meeting, as all three men contemplated and dwelled on Acheson's words of war. The very idea of war as the best course of action was unacceptable.

Robert Kennedy put down the photos, "Jesus Christ." He suddenly started laughing which earned a chuckle from O'Donnell.

O'Donnell smiled, "Call me Irish, but I don't believe in cooler heads prevailing."

The President smirked, "You know, they think I froze in there."

"You didn't freeze," Robert Kennedy shot back in his defense.

O'Donnell nodded, "You did exactly what you should've done. You stayed out of the corner. You didn't decide."

The President shook his head, "Acheson's scenario is just—It's unacceptable." He waved to the door, "Aside from Peggy, he's got more experience than any of them." He shook his head, "Hell, even Peggy's option seems like an impossible task. The Soviets can easily walk all over us in the political route. Those two have the most experience out of anyone."

O'Donnell shook his head and started to pace, "There is no expert on the subject. There is no wise old man. There's—" He paused and looked back at the President, "Shit. There's just us."

The President frowned, "The thing is, I hate to admit, Acheson's right. Talk alone won't accomplish anything."

"Then let's bomb the shit out of them," O'Donnell chuckled. "Everyone wants to. Even you," he said, toward the Kennedys. "Hell, even me. It would certainly feel good. Right? It would certainly make me feel good."

Robert Kennedy stood up and walked over to his brother, "Jack, I'm as conniving as they come, but a sneak attack is just wrong." He stuck his hands in his pockets, "I think Peggy might be onto something with what she said. She said stern negotiations, that can mean many things."

O'Donnell shook his head, "Things are happening to fast. This is starting to smell like the Bay of Pigs all over again." He laughed, "Shit, we should just listen to Peggy. She was right in the Bay of Pigs; maybe she's right on this," he said half-jokingly.

The President shook his head, "Well, tonight, listening to Taylor and Acheson, I kept seeing Lemnitzer and Dulles telling me all I had to do is sign on the dotted line." He pushed himself off his desk, grabbing his whiskey glass, and walked over to his rocking chair, "And the invasion would succeed, and Castro would be—" The President grunted as he slowly sat down on his chair, "And Castro would be gone. Just—Easy. Just like that." He sighed and leaned back in his chair, shaking his head in frustration.

Robert Kennedy and Kenneth O'Donnell stood in front of him and watched him.

The President sighed, "You know, there's something immoral about abandoning your own judgement." He fiddled with the glass in his hand, "We just can't let this get out of hand." He looked up at his brother, "And we're gonna to do whatever we're gonna do to make this come out right."

He shook his head, "I'm going to stay here tomorrow."

"No, you can't," O'Donnell interjected. "Remember, we talked about this, your schedule. The best thing you can do tomorrow is go to Connecticut."

Robert Kennedy nodded, "He's right."

The President looked at the both of them and nodded, "Yeah." He paused for a moment before he shook his head in frustration, "Jesus."


Willard InterContinental Washington Hotel

Later that evening in her hotel, Peggy, now dressed in her short nightgown under a long white hotel bathrobe, padded out of the bathroom toward her bed. Her spacious neoclassical styled suite looked more like a luxury apartment than a hotel, complete with a living room, dining room, kitchen, and two bedrooms. It's a beautiful and comfortable place to stay while away from home and an excellent place to recharge after these stressful past few days. Though, Peggy didn't feel like she'll be enjoying her stay due to what's going on.

Peggy walked over to her bed and sat down, running a hand through her hair. She let out a sigh as she leaned back against the headboard, extending her legs over the bed and sinking into the soft mattress in comfort. These past few days were long and stressful, and being away from her family didn't help. In these last few days, there was minimal progress in how to handle the situation in Cuba, and the possibility of war became increasingly possible with each passing moment. It's only been a few days since the discovery of the missiles, and the talk of war is discussed like it was the only course of action. She honestly felt that some of the men she worked with didn't understand the gravity of what war would bring.

Peggy didn't envy the President's job. President Kennedy had a trying task ahead of him in dealing with the missiles and the Soviet Union.

She leaned over to her end table and picked up the phone and immediately dialed for home. Peggy brought the handset to her ear and returned to her comfortable position, leaning back against the headboard and listened to the ringing tone. The tone continued to buzz in her ear as she waited for someone at home to pick up on the other end. It was pretty late in the evening on a weekday, so Steve should be at least home to answer the phone.

After a moment, Peggy heard the line connect followed by the sound of Angela's voice, "Hello, this Angela Rogers speaking, how may I help you?"

Peggy smiled at the sound of her daughter's voice, "Hi, Darling. It's your mother."

"Hi, Mom!" Angela responded in an excited tone. "How was your day today?"

Peggy smiled, "It was long and frustrating." She chuckled, "I'd rather be at home with all of you."

"We miss you here, Mama," Angela sweetly said. "When did you say you were coming home?"

Peggy frowned, "As I said last night, darling, I don't know yet. I'm sorry. Probably not for the next few days. Still got a lot to do here." She smiled, "But I miss you. I miss all of you."

"I miss you too, Mom."

"How was school? You're up pretty late for a weeknight, sweetie," said Peggy.

"Dad said we can stay up a little longer to wait for your call."

Peggy smiled, "That's sweet of your father, but don't make it a habit while I'm gone, okay?"

"Okay. But school was good. Nothing really happened. I just have a math test this Friday," Angela said.

Peggy smirked, "I know you'll do great, darling. You're smart. But don't forget to study, okay?"

"I won't."

"Will you let me know how you do?"

"I will, Mom," Angela responded. There was a pause as a sound of commotion erupted on the other end of the line. It sounded like the family bickering over the phone, which earned a cheerful chuckle from Peggy. After a few seconds, Angela returned on the line, "John wants to talk to you."

Peggy smirked, "Put him on, sweetheart. I love you."

"I love you too, Mom."

There was another pause followed by John's cheery voice, "Hi, Mom!"

"Hi there, darling. Everything going okay back at home and school?"

"Yup! We're studying about the Earth in science today."

"That sounds cool," Peggy responded with a smile. She wished she could be at home and hear her kids days in person, but this was better than nothing. She chuckled, "Tell me about it, sweetie?"

"Well, we talked about the ecosystem and that it's like a community of living and nonliving things like soil, water, and air. We learned that ecosystems contain many living things and can be as small as our backyard or as big as the biggest ocean!"

Peggy smiled, "Wow. As big as an ocean, huh?"

"Yeah," John happily responded. "An ecosystem has many organisms that are important. Trees, deer, plants, birds, rabbits, and insects are all members. There are also organisms we can't see that live in ecosystems too."

Peggy chuckled, "You sound like you're learning a lot, darling."

"I am. I like science," John expressed enthusiastically.

"You'll make a great astronaut because that's a whole lot of science and math," said Peggy as she fiddled with her hair.

There was a slight pause before John spoke up in a sadder tone, "Angela, says you don't know when you're coming home."

Peggy nodded, "Yes, I'm sorry, darling. There's a lot I have to do here, and I don't know when it'll all be done."

"Why can't you work from home? You did that before."

Peggy chuckled, "That was because I was sick, sweetheart."

"Call in sick again."

Peggy shook her head, "It isn't that simple, John. I wish it was. Unfortunately, this is something different."

"I miss you, Mama."

"Aw, I miss you too, darling." Peggy frowned, "I'll do my best to call home every night so you can always hear from me, okay?"

"Okay," John simply said.

Peggy smiled, "I love you and I promise I won't be gone too long."

"I love you too, Mom," said John.

"Is Dad nearby? I need to talk to him really quick."

"Yup, here he is," John said, before the phone suddenly went quiet.

After a few seconds, Peggy heard the sweet sound of Steve's voice on the other end of the line. "Hey, honey, how was your day?"

Peggy smiled, "Hi, darling." She sighed, "It was rough to say the least. Unfortunately, I can't fill you in on the details on this line. I'm sorry."

Steve chuckled, "It's okay, I understand. I bet you're sitting nice and comfy on your bed right now instead of being cooped up in a SHIELD office."

"I am. Wearing nothing but my night gown and a robe."

"Oh. I miss seeing that already. Minus a few layers."

Peggy laughed, "Steve, aren't the kids near you?"

"No! They're in the family room. Besides, I'm sure they wouldn't understand the context anyway."

"Except maybe Michael and Sarah," Peggy smirked.

Steve chuckled, "Yeah, but they're in the family room."

Peggy squinted in suspicion, "Wait, Steve, you aren't letting the kids stay up late watching TV on a school night are you?"

There was a slight pause. "No…"

Peggy laughed, "Sure. We'll talk about that when I get home." She chuckled, "And don't let the kids stay up late to wait for my call."

"Aw, but they miss you."

Peggy smiled, "I know, but they have school. They can stay up late on the weekends."

"Alright, alright" said Steve.

Her mood shifted and she sighed, "Anyway…"

"Yeah," Steve replied, sensing her frustration. "Today wasn't good?"

Peggy shook her head, "No. Without going into detail, there's a lot of bickering."

"Hm. Figured as much."

"Darling, there's talk of war." Peggy frowned, "And use of nuclear weapons."

"Oh my God," Steve sighed.

"I don't know what's going to happen. I advocated for diplomacy first, but I have to agree with everyone else that it's too slow of a solution." She frowned, "I honestly can't figure out a way to avoid a war. I can't think of any other option." She sighed, "We're still discussing courses of action with the President, but, again, all roads are leading to a war with the Soviet Union. Also doesn't help that the military is really pushing for war."

Steve sighed, "Of course the military is trying to push for war with the Soviets. They've been preparing for years. I don't agree, but it kind of makes sense."

Peggy shook her head, "I don't know, Steve. I can't think of anything else."

"I don't know either, Peggy. But if anyone can figure out another solution, it's you," he said plainly. "You've always been the smart one in the room and the most adaptable. You're in that position for a reason, and you earned that spot. You may not know it now, but I have faith that you'll figure it out. I have faith all of you will figure it out for the best interest of our country."

Peggy sighed, "I hope so."

"My faith is well placed in you. I have no doubt in you, Peggy."

"Thank you, darling," Peggy smiled. She's been stressed all day, but those little things of encouragement Steve just said as well as talking to her kids made her feel much better. Plus, talking to her kids really boosted her mood.

"Thanks for telling me about this. Do your best on keeping me posted with what's going on."

"I will, Steve." Peggy paused, "I love you."

"And I love you," replied, Steve. "Oh, Michael wants to talk to you. Do you want to talk to him?"

Peggy chuckled, "Of course, I do, Steve."

"I had to ask because I didn't know if you wanted to tell me more stuff."

Peggy smiled, "I'll talk to Michael and Sarah then I'll finish talking to you."

"Alright, alright," said Steve. "Here's Michael."

Peggy smiled as she waited to talk to her two oldest kids.


Wednesday, October 17, 1961

White House

The next day, American military units begin redeploying to bases in the Southeastern United States as more intelligence photos from another U-2 flight show additional sites of 16 to 32 missiles. The Airforce began preparations for airstrikes of Cuba with planes such as the mighty B-52 bomber readying with tons of ordinance for the attack. Army and Marine Corps troops start the long process of redeploying combat troops to the southern bases under the guise of a prearranged military exercise.

While the military begins preparations for the inevitable war, President Kennedy maintained his schedule, starting the day, first with a brief service at St. Matthew's Cathedral in observance of the National Day of Prayer followed by lunch with Crown Prince Hasan of Libya. Then by late afternoon and early evening, the President maintained his commitments and made a political visit to Connecticut in support of Democratic congressional candidates.

By the late evening, while the President was away, EXCOMM met in the conference/situation room in the basement of the West Wing of the White House to discuss possible courses of action in removing the missiles and dealing with the Soviet Union. In the dimly lit conference room, with cigarette smoke filling the air, the meeting hasn't seemed to have progressed from airstrikes in the four hours they have argued. The atmosphere was tense as everyone in the room continued to bicker with the vast majority, mainly the military, supporting airstrikes and war.

With Robert Kennedy pacing back and forth, General Taylor stood by the table and raised his voice over the bickering room, "The full spectrum of airstrikes is the minimum response the Joint Chiefs will accept!"

"No, no, no!" Robert Kennedy yelled, staring down the General. He walked over to his chair by Peggy and McNamara, "Now, there is more than one option here! And if one isn't occurring to us, it's because we haven't thought hard enough. "

CIA Director, John A. McCone, stood up and frowned, "Bobby, sometimes there is only one right choice, and you thank God when it's so clear."

Peggy leaned back in her chair, sighing and shaking her head. "John, you're talking about a preemptive strike. A sneak attack against a small country and turning it into glass. How do you think that's going to make us look? We won't have any support from the UN or our neighboring Latin American countries after that. We'll be everyone's favorites."

Acheson shook his head, "Come on, Peggy, that's naïve. This is the real world. You know that better than everybody."

McCone frowned, looking over at Peggy, "I thought for once, Peggy, you and I would agree after finding those missiles. Too bad." Peggy shook her head.

Robert Kennedy took his seat by Peggy and McNamara, "She's right." Adlai Stevenson nodded in agreement with the Peggy and Robert Kennedy, but remained outspoken against the military strikes.

McCone raised a brow, "Bobby, you weren't so ethically particular when we were talking about options for removing Castro over at CIA."

Robert Kennedy sighed, closing a folder in front of him aggressively in frustration. He glared at McCone and Acheson for a moment before shifting his focus to Peggy and McNamara. He sighed, "Peggy, Bob if we go ahead with these airstrikes, you know what it'll come to in the end." He leaned over to them, "There has to be something else. Give it to me."

McNamara and Peggy looked at each other before looking back at the younger Kennedy.

"Give it to me. Now, I don't care how crazy, inadequate, or stupid it sounds," Kennedy said in a near begging tone, desperate for an alternative for war. Everyone else in the room looked at each other with knowing looks, the vast majority still in support of the war with the Soviets.

McNamara, again, glanced over at Peggy and nodded. Peggy then spoke up carefully, "six months ago, we gamed out a scenario. It's slow. It doesn't get rid of the missiles. It's got a lot of drawbacks." Kennedy eyed her carefully. "The scenario calls for a blockade of Cuba." Peggy honestly didn't hold stock in this scenario as a viable course of action due to how slow it is and lack of guarantees. But, if this was the scenario they chose over war, then it's good enough for her. At least for now.

McNamara nodded, "I support the scenario. Again, and I have to stress this, the biggest problem is that it's slow and we have to figure out some other way to get rid of the missiles already in Cuba."

Robert Kennedy smiled and glanced over at Acheson and McCone who all, like the Joint Chiefs, wore a look of disapproval of the proposed solution.


SHIELD: Tempest Headquarters, Washington D.C.

It was close to one in the morning when Peggy got to the SHIELD headquarters in DC. The meeting with EXCOMM went long and only achieved a few things. But the most significant success from that meeting was the new alternative to the airstrikes—a "blockade" of Cuba. Though not a bulletproof plan nor garnered the support of everyone, it did stall the possibility of war. It was far from a perfect alternative, but it was a start. The original idea of the blockade came when SHIELD and the CIA first suspected nuclear missiles in Cuba over six months ago, and it was Peggy who spearheaded the concept with Robert McNamara. She didn't think it was going to work, but it was only an exercise. At least at that time.

Peggy wasn't entirely convinced that the blockade would succeed nor survive further meetings, but it was a good start. There needed to be more than just a Naval blockade to handle the missiles already in Cuba, and she knew the blockade alone wouldn't fix everything. However, she was glad that Robert Kennedy supported the idea. He was as desperate as her to avoid war. An imperfect solution now is better than a perfect solution later when it's too late.

When Peggy arrived at the headquarters building, it was relatively empty with a handful of agents and staff on night duty. She didn't waste any time and headed straight for her office on the top floor. Once in her office, Peggy kept her lights dim and dropped her briefcase by her desk and removed her suit coat, draping it over her chair before taking a seat. She took a moment to decompress, sighing, and running a hand through her hair, tired from another long and stressful day. Sadly, the day wasn't over. Peggy still had one more thing to do.

Peggy leaned forward and picked up the phone and called the Aegis headquarters in New York to see if Daniel was still in the office at this hour. After a moment of the phone ringing, she heard the line connect followed by Daniel's voice, "Sousa," he greeted.

"Daniel, it's Peggy," she greeted.

"Hey, you're calling late," Daniel responded in a surprising cheerful voice.

Peggy grinned, "Long meeting. I'm surprised you're still in the office."

"Been working to figure out what else we can do and helping process the raw intelligence we're gathering from Cuba and the Soviet Union." He sighed, "It's hard getting assets down there without getting discovered by Castro's regime. So far we only managed to get two spies down to Cuba without detection."

"I got the report. Fast work, Daniel. Good work. The more eyes the better." Peggy sighed, "I know they just got there, but any word from them yet? I know it's only been a day."

"Yeah, actually. They think they discovered more missiles."

Peggy frowned, "Figured as much."

"U-2 overflights might confirm this, but they believe they found IRBMs (Intermediate Range Ballistic Missiles). At least five. They spotted them at night when the Cubans and Soviets were moving them in trucks."

Peggy sighed, "Goodness. They can hit anywhere in the country with those missiles." She shook her head, "Are they sure it's IRBMs and not the SS-4 MRBMs?"

"The secret wire they sent was sparse to limit communication exposure, but both agents confirmed the same thing from different locations," said Daniel.

Peggy sighed again, "Damn it. Any word if any of the missiles are operational?"

"Not that we know of yet."

"Hm," hummed Peggy. "Probably safe to assume that some are nearing operational status though."

"Any word on what the President is going to do?"

"Well airstrikes are still on the table, but Bobby is in support for the naval blockade scenario," Peggy said referring to Robert Kennedy. "We still don't have a definitive decision yet."

"Right."

Peggy frowned, "I know you've been working late, but I need you to do something for me."

"What is it?" asked Daniel.

"Is all of the Special Purpose Units on alert?"

"Donaldson and Dugan brought all units on alert and standby upon receiving the news of the missiles in Cuba," replied Daniel. Deputy Director David Donaldson is the head of SHIELD's Office of Special Projects, Sousa's former position, and immediate superior to Timothy Dugan, Captain and commander of SHIELDs Special Purpose Unit (SPU).

Peggy briefly thought back to an earlier conversation she had with General Taylor immediately following the meeting and after Robert Kennedy left.


After Robert Kennedy left the meeting, Peggy stood up to leave for the night as well, but as she got her things together, General Taylor stopped her. "Peggy, wait a moment," he said.

"What do you need, General?" she replied crisply.

"I know you and Bobby don't support the prospect of war, but the military requires aid from SHIELD."

Peggy nodded, "What do you need?"

"We'll discuss this in greater detail later with the other military chief's, but this is just to notify you first. The Chiefs are in consensus that in the event of an airstrikes and or invasion, we need SHIELD's Special Purpose Unit to land a few days ahead of the airstrikes and provide target packages of missiles we don't know about or what the U-2's might've missed for the Airforce and Navy."

Peggy nodded, "Okay. This will take some coordination and planning on both ends, but the SPU teams can take care of it. I'll let them know."

"I know this is a sudden request, Peggy, but this is the best way we can find and destroy the missiles that we don't know about," said the General.

"My teams are flexible and can get anywhere in twenty-four hours, General. As long as the military coordinates and plans with them, they'll provide you the targets." Peggy nodded, "However, I need to stress, even with my teams in Cuba ahead of the strikes, there still the risk we won't discover all the missiles."

General Taylor nodded, "I understand that. We're trying to shrink the gap and get better than 80%."

Peggy shook her head, "We can't even guarantee that, General. But my teams will do their best in locating other missiles we can't see."

"In the end, that's all we can do," said the General. He sighed, "I understand we disagree, but I respect you and your agency a great deal. Your SPU teams have proven themselves with covert unconventional warfare operations and reconnaissance missions in Vietnam, Israel, and Algeria and we need those skills in the upcoming few days."

"I appreciate it, General, but regardless of how I feel about the situation, you can count on SHIELD to support you," said Peggy. "We're all in the same side in the end of the day."

"Great," said General Taylor. "I'll get you the official word and brief you on the plans soon, but for now, get your teams to stage at NAS (Naval Air Station) Key West. There, once we finalize the strikes, the military can brief and coordinate with them."

Peggy nodded, "Sounds good, General."


Peggy nodded, "Good. Alert Donaldson and Dugan. I need them to draft orders for the deployment of four teams NAS Key West." She sighed, "I'll coordinate with the Joint Chief's but in the event of invasion, they'll drop into Cuba few days ahead of the airstrikes and provide target packages to the Airforce and Navy. Goal is to recon and provide coordinates and targeting of missiles that we don't currently know about." She leaned back, "And if able, sabotage any more missiles and air defenses as per our original plans."

"I'll get the orders out now."

"Thank you," said Peggy. "Should go home and get some rest. You're going to need it."

"Wish I can say the same to you, Peg." There was a slight pause, "I'll go home once I get these orders cut."

Peggy smiled, "Alright, have a good evening, Daniel, give Angie and the kids my best."

"Thanks, Peg, you too." With that, Peggy hung up the phone.

Peggy sighed and ran a hand over her face in exhaustion, leaning back in her chair. She frowned when she looked at the clock on her desk and saw the time. It was awfully late and too much of her displeasure, it was too late for her to call home and talk to her kids. They're all probably asleep by now for school tomorrow, or they should be. But she knew if she phoned now, Steve would pick up, but he too has to get up for work.

Peggy leaned forward again and picked up the phone but then hesitated before calling her husband. She thought for a moment but then decided to hang up and not call Steve and let him sleep. It's too late in the night to phone home. Peggy knew Steve would understand and hoped her kids also did. Peggy sighed in frustration, upset that she couldn't talk to her kids today because of how busy she was, but knew that was the reality of what she was doing.

Peggy missed her family a lot and always made it a point to try and call home every night when she was away for work, assuming she wasn't out of the country. But unfortunately, the current situation in Cuba has her busy nearly all parts of the day, which meant her time had to be mainly focused on work rather than family right now. In the end, she knew her kids would be all right, and Steve could handle all the family chores and tasks, it was just frustrating for her not having time to call them.

Peggy sighed again. Tomorrow is going to be another long day.


Thursday, October 18, 1961

White House

As the sun rose on the third official day of the crisis, the military continued preparations for the inevitable invasion of Cuba. The Marine Amphibious Units of the 1st and 2nd Marine Divisions started mobilizing and deploying in the Gulf. At the same time, the Army's 101st and 82nd Airborne Divisions began their process of deployments to the Southern United States. The four SHIELD SPU teams planned for reconnaissance and targeting also began moving to their staging site at NAS Key West. But while the military prepared for war, the President met in the Oval Office with all the Joint Chiefs, Kenneth O'Donnell, Robert McNamara, Peggy, McGeorge Bundy, and Robert Kennedy to discuss findings from the day's most recent U-2 overflight earlier in the morning.

General Taylor frowned, where he stood by one of the white couches, "The situation is worse than we thought. We now count 40 missiles." He raised his voice in stress, "40 missiles. Longer range. IRBMs." He nodded at Peggy who was sitting on one of the couches, "This confirms with findings from SHIELD. With these missiles, they can hit every place in the country." He shook his head, "Except, Seattle."

Peggy kept a stoic expression and looked to the President to see his reaction. President Kennedy also kept a passive look as he leaned back in his rocking chair, if not betraying a troubling look at the news.

General Curtis LeMay, an older World War II veteran and Airforce Chief of Staff, nodded at the President, "Mr. President, You give me the order right now, my planes will be ready to carry out the airstrikes in three days' time." He leaned forward and smiled, "All you gotta do is say 'go.' My boys will get those Red bastards."

Peggy made a slight frown as she looked back to the President to see his response.

President Kennedy stood up and glanced over at General Taylor, "General, how long until the Army is ready?" he asked, sticking his hands in his pockets and walking over to the window.

General Taylor followed him, "We've just begun the mobilization under cover of a prearranged exercise, sir. We're looking at another week and a half."

General LeMay stood up and quickly walked over to the President, "But you can order the strikes now," he said in a forceful tone. "The plans call for an eight day air campaign. It'll light a fire under the Army's ass to get in place."

The President turned around and looked back at LeMay with a troubled look, "General, LeMay do you truly believe that's our best course of action?"

General LeMay nodded, "Mr. President, I believe that's our only course of action. America is in danger. Those missiles are a threat to our bomber bases and the safety of our nuclear deterrent. Now, without our deterrent, there's nothing keeping the enemy from choosing general nuclear war."

Peggy stood up and eyed General LeMay carefully, not liking what he's saying about what to do next. To her, he seems pretty pushy about going to war if not a little excited to attack the Soviets and Cubans.

The President shook his head and began walking back to the center of the room, all eyes following him. General LeMay spoke up in a again, "It's our duty, sir. Our responsibility to the American people to take out those missiles and return stability to the strategic situation."

The President continued to slowly make his way to his brother as he listened to the General. Peggy crossed her arms over her chest and continued to eye the senior Airforce General with an edgy look, not liking his push for airstrikes. She was sure the President didn't like the General's position as well as his tone.

General LeMay continued in a frustrated tone, "The big red dog is digging in our backyard, and we are justified to shoot him."

General Taylor stepped forward to the President, "Sir, we have a rapidly closing window of opportunity where we can prevent those missiles from ever becoming operational. The other options do not guarantee the end result we can guarantee." He sighed, "However, as more time goes by, the less reliable the choice we offer you becomes."

General LeMay spoke up again, "Mr. President, the motto I chose for SAC (Strategic Air Command) is 'Peace is our profession.' Now, God forbid we find ourselves in a nuclear exchange, but if launched, those missiles from Cuba, would kill a lot of Americans. The very presence of those missiles give the Soviets first strike capability." He nodded, "Those missiles make a nuclear exchange more likely. And that is why I'm being such a pain in the ass about destroying them and destroying them immediately." He glanced over at McGeorge Bundy on the couch, "Hell, even Mac agrees."

The President, Robert Kennedy, Peggy, and O'Donnell all glanced at Bundy who quickly looked away from all of them.

"And, sir," continued LeMay. "Given your own statements about Cuba, I think a blockade or bunch of political talk would be considered by a lot of our friends and neutrals as a pretty weak response." The President eyed the General with a stern look. The General continued, "I suspect the American people would feel the same way."

The President turned around, showing his back to the General as he paced back to Robert Kennedy, Peggy, and O'Donnell.

"You're in a pretty bad fix, Mr. President," said General LeMay.

The President immediately stopped in his tracks then slowly turned around to the Airforce General. "What did you say?" the President glared at the General.

General LeMay hesitated before speaking, "I said, you're in a pretty bad fix."

The President smiled, "Maybe you hadn't noticed, but you're in it with me." General Taylor, Robert Kennedy, and Peggy smiled at the President's response, LeMay only made a smile out of discomfort.

"Now, General," said the President to LeMay. "What are the Soviets going to do when we attack?"

General LeMay looked down for a moment then back at the President, "Nothing."

"Nothing," repeated the President in disbelief.

LeMay shook his head, "Nothing. Because the only alternative open to them is one they can't choose."

Peggy and McNamara looked at the General with disbelief. The two of them can't fathom that the Airforce Chief of Staff is naïve enough to believe that the Soviets won't respond after the United States attacks.

The President let out an uneasy chuckle, "You know, they're not just missiles we will be destroying, General." He started walking toward the Airforce General, "If we kill Soviet soldiers, they're going to respond. I mean, how would we respond if they killed ours?" LeMay frowned at the President with disdain to his response. "No, they're going to do something, General. I can promise you that." The President turned around, again showing his back to the Airforce General, "we're going to discuss this later."

With that, the military Generals left the Oval office and into the hallway. General LeMay glanced over at General Taylor, "Those God damn Kennedys are going to destroy this country if we don't do something about this."

Back in the Oval Office, as Bundy and McNamara started to leave, Robert Kennedy held the door open for the two men. McNamara stopped at the doorway and glanced back at the President and smiled, "We're headed out to the backyard to take a look at that big red dog," he jokingly said.

Robert Kennedy laughed and patted McNamara on the shoulder, "Thanks, Bob." Bundy and McNamara then left the office, Robert Kennedy closing the door behind them.

As Peggy, the last advisor to leave the office, gathered her things to leave, the President called out to her, "Peggy, stay for a moment will ya? Need to talk to you for a moment."

"Of course, Mr. President," she said.

O'Donnell frowned as he glanced over at the President, "I was hoping LeMay pushed you. Because I was ready to knock that son of a bitch across the room!"

The President nodded, "We knew it was coming. And I'll tell you one thing, Kenny, those brass heads have one big advantage. That is, if we do what they want us to do, there's going to be none of us left alive to tell them that they were wrong."

He looked over at Peggy, "Peggy."

"Mr. President," Peggy replied.

Suddenly, the door opened, interrupting the President, and in came Theodore Sorensen, man with glasses and nice combed hair, Special Counsel to the President, and Morgan Ferguson a tall balding man, Assistant Special Counsel to the President. "Mr. President," greeted Ferguson. "We're need to go over what you're going to say."

Sorensen looked at his watch, "Gromyko should be on his way now."

Andrei Gromyko is the Soviet Foreign Minister and is on his way to the White House along with Soviet Ambassador Anatoly Dobrynin to meet with the President on the situation in Cuba. Specifically, the President wants to know if the Soviet Foreign Minister will tell the truth about the presence of weapons of mass destruction in Cuba.

The President rubbed his neck in stress of the situation at hand.

"There's still no sign that they know we know about the missiles," said Ferguson.

The President shook his head, "Well, we better keep it that way." He looked back at Peggy, "Peggy." Peggy remained silent and focused on the President. "I need your input real quick."

"About what specifically?" replied Peggy.

"I didn't want ask you this in front of the Generals, what do you think will happen if we invade and strike Cuba? You know more how the Soviets think than anyone here." The President nodded, "I need a non bullshit answer."

Peggy looked at the men in the room, mainly Robert Kennedy and the President. "You know this answer already, Mr. President. Mutual Assured Destruction."

"Hm," hummed the President. It's true, he knew the answer, but he still needed to hear it from someone else.

"If we attack Cuba, I can almost guarantee that the Soviets will initiate a nuclear strike against the United States at some point. I can, however, guarantee that Castro will ask Khrushchev to use nuclear weapons to protect his country." She nodded, "Regardless, if we use our strategic weapons, it will be suicide."

The President frowned.

"I also have reason to believe that the Soviets also have tactical nuclear weapons in Cuba. It's not definitive yet, but if we do invade, I'd expect the Soviets to utilize those weapons." She shook her head, "If we do attack, it's only escalation from there."

The President nodded, "Thank you, Peggy."

Sorensen stepped forward, "Mr. President, about Gromyko."

"Right." He nodded at Peggy, "Thank you for the time, Peggy."

Peggy nodded, grabbing her things and leaving the Oval office to leave the President with his pressing duties.


Later that afternoon, the Press discover a buildup of military troops in the Southern United States and an active military exercise, consisting mainly of the Marine Amphibious Unit, near Puerto Rico codenamed "ORTSAC." It hardly took a code breaker to recognize that the military exercise codename was "Castro" spelled backward. The Press were quick to assume that the U.S. was planning to invade Cuba. However, there was no further proof.

That evening, President Kennedy met with Soviet Foreign Minister Andrei Gromyko and Ambassador Anatoly Dobrynin, who both assert that the Soviet aid to Cuba is purely defensive and does not represent a threat to the United States. Without revealing what he knows of the existence of the missiles, Kennedy read to Gromyko his public warning from September 4 that "the gravest consequences" would follow if Soviet offensive weapons are introduced into Cuba and pose a threat to U.S. national security. Gromyko continued to stress that all Soviet military assistance is defensive and quotes Primer Khrushchev's statement.

After the meeting, the President again met with Robert Kennedy and Kenneth O'Donnell in the Oval office to discuss the meeting. Robert Kennedy entered the office and quickly asked, "What happened?"

The President frowned, "Lying bastard. Lied right to my face."

Robert Kennedy stuck his hands in his pockets and shook his head, "We're split down the middle," he said, referring to the EXCOMM meetings. "If I held a vote, I'd say airstrike would beat blockade by a vote of two."

The President shook his head, "I want a consensus. Either airstrikes or blockade, something everybody will standby. Even if they don't like it." He spoke sternly, "I need it by Saturday. Make it happen."

Robert Kennedy looked down and shook his head, "What if I can't?"

O'Donnell spoke up, "If we go into this split, the Russians will know it and they'll use it against us. Just like what Peggy said."

The President nodded at O'Donnell, "Have you cancelled Chicago and the rest of the weekend yet?"

"You don't show for Chicago, everyone will know something is going on."

Robert Kennedy nodded, "He's got a point."

The President sighed.


Willard InterContinental Washington Hotel

Peggy unlocked her suite door and stepped into her cozy hotel, back late at night again. The crisis in Cuba has demanded so much of her time and for a good reason. She walked into her living room and dropped her briefcase on the carpet without regard to where it fell. Peggy then unbuttoned her suit jacket and draped it lazily over the arm of the couch before sitting down. She sighed and ran a hand through her hair, tired from yet another long day. She only figured the rest of the week will probably be the same as today.

Peggy rested her head on her hand and sighed. She looked down at her watch to recheck the time, reading midnight, yet another night where she missed a phone call to her kids. Too late to talk to her kids since they should be in bed for school tomorrow. She could at least call her husband; in fact, she should. It would be nice to talk to Steve even for a little bit. Peggy frowned, upset of how late it was and how she probably wouldn't be able to speak with her kids tonight.

Even though it's late, Peggy figured calling her husband would probably be a good idea. He would likely still pick up and know it was her calling. As she leaned forward to grab the phone off the end table, it started to ring obnoxiously. Peggy furrowed her brows in confusion at who would call her late this evening.

She picked up the receiver and greeted, "Margaret Rogers speaking."

"Peggy, it's Bobby," greeted Robert Kennedy.

"Bobby. Having a late evening are we?"

Robert Kennedy chuckled, "Something like that."

"What do you need?" asked Peggy with a smile.

"Tomorrow evening's meeting. Jack needs a consensus either with airstrikes or blockade." He paused, "I need you and Bob to come up with strong reasoning for a blockade because whatever is voted on tomorrow will definitely have the greatest impact on his decision on what to do."

Peggy sighed, "I'll figure it out."

"Aside the military, you and Bob have the most insight on the benefits and drawbacks. It'll fall on you two."

Peggy chuckled, "No pressure."

"I'm sure you can handle it, Peg. Anyway, don't let me keep you, have a good night, Peggy," said Robert Kennedy.

Peggy nodded, "You too, Bobby." With that, she heard the line disconnect. Peggy put the phone down on the receiver and sighed again. More stuff to take care of before tomorrow. She shook her head, picked up the handset, and dialed home, deciding to call her husband before staying up for the next few hours to prepare for tomorrow.

After a few moments of listening to the ringing tone, she heard the line connect, followed by the sound of her husband's sweet and welcoming voice. "Hey, honey," Steve greeted, instantly knowing it was her calling. Though he tried hiding it, Peggy knew she woke him up by the sound of his voice.

Peggy smiled, "Hi, darling. God, it's so good to hear your voice. It feels like it's been so long."

Steve chuckled, "Yeah. We missed you yesterday. The kids wanted to stay up late to see if you would call."

Peggy frowned, "I'm sorry, I didn't call last night, Steve. It was so late, and I didn't want to wake you and the kids up, especially since you have a hectic schedule this week at work, and the kids got school in the morning."

"I didn't say that to make you feel bad, hon, I was saying that to tell you how much the kids miss you. Because the kids really, really miss you."

"I know, Steve. And I miss them too. So, so much," she responded. "Are the kids doing okay? Did Angela study for her math test tomorrow? And did Michael study for his test too?"

Steve chuckled, "The kids are all doing what they need to be doing, honey. Angela and Michael are ready for their tests. Besides, if anyone doesn't need to study it's Angela. She's a literal genius."

Peggy chuckled, "How's John?"

"He misses you. More than his siblings."

Peggy frowned, "Yeah. Wish I could've called earlier."

"Don't worry about it, Peg. They understand in their own way," assured Steve.

She sighed, "Are they behaving?"

Steve chuckled, "Yeah, they are. No complaints back here at home."

"Are you saying that because you don't want them to get in trouble?" joked Peggy.

"No! I'm serious. They're really good here."

Peggy laughed, "Well, I'm glad."

There was a slight pause before Steve spoke up, "So. How is it going in DC?"

"Well, we found a naval blockade of Cuba as an alternative to airstrikes, but now Bobby wants me to help sell the rest of the committee on it to get a consensus." Peggy sighed, "Because whatever is voted on will greatly impact the President's decision on how to handle the Soviets."

Steve chuckled, "Well, I still believe in you, Mrs. Rogers, Director of SHIELD. If anyone can sell it. It's you. You know the alternative, so I know you won't fail."

Peggy smiled, "Thanks, darling."

"Keep doing what you're doing, Peggy. It's going to be hard, but that woman sitting in that seat right now is going to save the world."

She blushed, "Have I ever told you how much I love you, Steve?"

"You might've mentioned it a few times," replied Steve.

Peggy smiled, "Thank you, Steve." She checked her watch again and decided that now is the time to hang up and start thinking about the next few hours. She frowned, "I'm sorry, darling. I have to go prep for tomorrow."

"I understand, hon. Thanks for calling. Good luck tomorrow. If you need anything, I'm only a phone call away."

"I love you," said Peggy.

"I love you too. Good night, hon." Though it was a short call home, it sure made Peggy feel better.

With that, Peggy hung up the phone and started to think her next few actions to get ready for the morning.


Saturday, October 20, 1961

White House

On Friday, October 19, 1961, President Kennedy maintained his schedule of campaign trips to Ohio and Illinois so as not to draw suspicion from the American public of the imminent threat in Cuba. In Washington, his advisers debated over the necessary and appropriate course of action. After hours of deliberation, Peggy, Robert Kennedy, and McNamara were able to swing the committee to approve of the Naval Blockade. However, Robert Kennedy feared the consensus wouldn't last long. He quickly requested his brother to return to Washington and cancel the rest of the trip.

Under the guise of a cold, President Kennedy returned back to Washington early Saturday morning to meet with his top advisers.

Everyone convened in the Oval Office and gathered on the two white couches and fancy wooden chairs around the coffee table while the President sat on his armchair as he listened to the discussions. Peggy, sitting between McNamara and Adlai Stevenson on one of the couches, sat forward and spoke, "Mr. President, our deliberations have led us to the conclusion that a blockade of offensive weapons into Cuba is our best option." She nodded, "A strong showing of support from the organization of American states would give us an umbrella of legitimacy."

The Organization of American States is a continental organization founded for the purposes of solidarity and cooperation among members states within the Western Hemisphere. It consists of thirty-five independent states of the Americas.

McNamara nodded and glanced over at the President, "A blockade is technically an act of war, therefore we recommend calling the action a 'quarantine.'"

O'Donnell leaned and chuckled, "Let's hope that translates into Russian the way we want it too."

The President remained passive as he listened to the discussion.

McNamara showed the room a handful of black and white photographs of Russian ships taken by surveillance planes, "There are between 20 and 30 Soviet ships on their way to Cuba at this time. Eight hundred miles out, the Navy will stop them, board, and any vessels containing weapons will be turned back."

Peggy nodded and leaned forward, chiming of her colleague, "A quarantine prevents any more missiles from reaching Cuba, but it doesn't remove the missiles already there. It gives the Soviets a chance to pull back without a war." The President remained quiet and listened to her with a look that resembled deep thought. If they refuse to remove the missiles, we retain the option to strike and invade." Peggy didn't like the last part of what she just said, but it is the truth and viable initiative. She leaned forward and stressed her last statement, "I have to stress, Mr. President, that any use of our strategic arsenal of nuclear weapons would be suicide if we elect to strike and invade."

Robert Kennedy spoke up and looked at his brother, the President, "A sneak attack would be counter to what the United States stands for. It leaves us no room to maneuver, and the inevitable Soviet response would force us into a war."

John McCone, Director of the CIA, leaned forward and stressed his point, "Mr. President, there are still those of us who believe we should proceed with the strikes." He shook his head, "Sir, with a blockade, we lose strategic surprise." Robert Kennedy shook his head in disagreement. "We also run the risk of the Soviets launching a first strike against us if they decide they have to use the missiles or lose them."

General Taylor didn't say anything, but nod in agreement with McCone.

The President finally spoke up, clearing his throat after being silent for so long, "So, quarantine or airstrike," he said, listing off the options.

Adlai Stevenson, US Ambassador to the UN, started to speak, gaining the attention of everyone in the room, "Well, there is a third option. With either course, we undertake the risk of nuclear war." He smiled, "It seems to me that maybe one of us in this room should be a coward, so I guess I'll be it." He took a deep breath, "A third course is to strike a deal. We trade Guantanamo and our missiles in Turkey, get them to pull their missiles out."

Everyone shook their heads in disagreement, but the President, who remained stoic and calm. Peggy, especially, didn't like the idea of trading Guantanamo to the Soviets since SHIELD has many of assets in the area to monitor Castro.

"We employ a back channel. We attribute the idea to U Thant. U Thant then raises it at the UN."

U Thant is the third Secretary-General of the United Nations, first non-Scandinavian to hold the position after his predecessor Dag Hammarskjöld died in an airplane crash.

The President was silent for a moment and squinted at Adlai. "I don't think that's possible, Adlai." He looked around the room, "I've not yet made my final decision. I'll be asking the networks for airtime on Monday night. We'll announce our course of action then." He nodded at Ten Sorenson, Special Counsel to the President, "Ted, I want you to get working on speeches for both quarantine and airstrike." He nodded, "Well, thank you for all your advice, Lady and gentlemen."

After the meeting, Peggy walked out of the Oval office and headed down the hallway. She didn't get far when McNamara called out to her. "Peggy!" he called. Peggy stopped in the middle of the corridor and turned around to face him.

He ran up to her and stopped by her side, "I didn't get a chance to tell you this yesterday, but good job on selling the rest of the committee on the idea of a blockade." He shrugged, "didn't last long though cause there's still a popular vote for airstrike. But you came in that meeting like a pro."

Peggy smiled, "Thanks, Bob." She shrugged, "Well, I just hope we can avoid a war. The president hasn't made his decision yet, but hopefully we don't find ourselves in one by the end of the week."

McNamara nodded, "Yeah."


Sunday, October 21, 1961

White House

The next day in the Oval Office, the President again met with the Chiefs of Staff to include General Sweeney of the Tactical Air Command, Robert Kennedy, McGeorge Bundy, John McCone, Robert McNamara, and Peggy to discuss airstrikes against the missiles themselves. Unsure of whether a "quarantine" would work, the President began to lean in favor of airstrikes to remove the missiles from Cuba.

The President sighed looked out the window of his office; everyone was quiet as they looked at the President, waiting for him to speak and make his decision. The room is tense with the feeling of war on everybody's mind. Though the vast majority of the American public didn't know it yet, the United States stood at the brink of war with the Soviet Union. The tension was high, and everyone in the room looked to the President for a decision.

The President sighed, "General," he said, still staring out to the garden. "Can you guarantee you'll get all the missiles?"

General Sweeney stayed silent as he hesitated with his response. President Kennedy turned around and faced the General to get his response.

General Sweeney spoke, "Sir, I guarantee we'll get all the missiles we know about."

General LeMay stepped forward, "Mr. President, we can get better than 90% of them." He glanced at Peggy, "SHIELD is providing their SPU teams to land ahead of the airstrikes and locate missiles we don't know about, giving our pilots the opportunity to eliminate the majority of the missiles."

The President glanced at Peggy then walked over to his desk, "I'll brief the congressional leadership tomorrow evening at five. At seven o'clock, all United States armed forces worldwide will stand up to DEFCON 3."

DEFCON 3 or Defensive Condition three, increase in force readiness above that required for normal military readiness. The US Airforce ready to mobilize in fifteen minutes.

The President looked at Ted Sorenson, Special Counsel to the President, who stood toward the back of the office with O'Donnell, "Ted, meet with Pierre, I need airtime on radio and television all three networks for seven tomorrow evening on the subject of the highest national urgency."

"Yes, sir," said Sorenson.

The President nodded to everyone in the room, "thank you."

Peggy looked at Robert Kennedy with a troubled look before leaving the office.


Naval Air Station (NAS) KEY WEST

Though NAS Key West was primarily a training base, the US Navy moved fighter attack wings and photographic squadrons to the base in preparation for the attack on Cuba. The Airforce also mobilized attack squadrons to Key West to augment the Navy detachment already stationed there. With over twenty-six fighters consisting of McDonnell Douglas F-4B Phantom IIs and Vought F-8D Crusaders and five antisubmarine aircraft, the base became a focal point and closest mainland base to Cuba. The Army also moved nuclear-capable Nike Hercules surface-to-air missiles to the Homestead and Miami area. MIM-23 Hawk surface-to-air missiles were also set up around Key West to protect against possible Soviet air attacks.

In one of the hangars on board the naval base, four teams of SHIELD's Special Purpose Unit consisting of four men each gathered around a large table that had a map of Cuba detailing all the known missile sites and their coordinates on it. Outside the enormous open doors of the hangar and in the Florida Sun, sat four black SHIELD Lockheed C-130 Hercules cargo planes, parked in line to be used to drop the four SPU teams into Cuba when the time is right.

Captain James Buchanan "Bucky" Barnes is the commander of the SPU detachment to Key West, tactical call sign Raider, and team leader of Team-1, nodded to his men, "Alright listen up, update on SHIELD Operation Black Vanguard. Much of yesterday's briefing details remain largely the same including drop zones, but now we got the finalized routes the attack wings are going to take to their targets."

All the SPU members payed close attention as they listed to Bucky brief them on the mission updates.

Bucky pointed to the drop zone of Team-4, tactical call sign: Raider-4, "Raider-4, you're tactical area of responsibility remains the same, recon your area for hidden missiles, and call in targets for the two air force attack wings. They consist of four Thunderchief's each." He traced the flight path of the attack wings on the map, "One flight will approach from the North West and the other will approach from the North approximately twenty-five minutes after. Definitive times will be detailed once we have confirmation that the airstrikes will take place. They'll establish radio contact once on station over your area."

Bucky then pointed to another part of the map to Team-3's, call sign: Raider-3, drop zone, "Raider-3, area of responsibility remains the same, mission is the same, as your area is one of the bigger areas, you'll be calling targets for two flights of B-52s, consisting of three planes each." He traced a path the B-52 would talk on the map, "Both flights will come from the North, and one flight will arrive on station fifteen minutes after. Like Team-4, they'll establish comms with you once on station."

Captain John Terselic, leader of team-3, nodded, "Got it."

Bucky again pointed to the map toward Team-2's, call sign: Raider-2, "Raider-2, your area is going to expand more to this southern area, toward the border of this small farm and town," he said tracing the new area." He pointed to the grid coordinates on the map, "note the coordinates of the new border."

Samuel Ward, leader of Team-2 nodded, "Got it, sir."

"Two flights of A-6 Intruders and one flight of F-4 Phantoms from the Enterprise will enter from North East at the same time and orbit your area to await targets from you."

Samuel Ward nodded and looked around and saw all the SPU team members paying close attention to the brief.

"Last but not least, Team-1, my team, we got this center section, here," Bucky said pointing at the map near the known missile sites. "Like everyone else, mission is the same, and a flight of F-4s from the Enterprise will approach from the North and await targets from us." Bucky nodded at everyone, "If and when the strikes are approved, we'll go in three days ahead as planned, HALO (Hight Altitude Low Opening) into our respective DZs."

He crossed his arms, "and one last update, direct from Director Rogers herself, on top of reconnaissance, provide targets, and destroy air defenses, she says, if able, sabotage or prevent the launch of any operational missiles." He nodded, "Questions?"

Ward cocked his head to the side, "Prevent the launch of any operational missiles? That's a tall order."

Bucky nodded, "I know, but even if we discover more missiles, there's a chance the military won't be able to destroy them all. That's why we have to do the prevent the launch of operational missiles."

Terselic shook his head, "What is this world coming too."


Monday, October 22, 1961

7:00PM

Monday evening, on the seventh official day of the crisis, President John F. Kennedy appeared on live television as well as speak over the radio to address the nation on the developing situation. From his desk in the oval office, he appeared on nearly every TV screen in the country. Millions of Americans tuned in to listen to the President with great interest and curiosity.

"Good evening, my fellow citizens, this government as promised has maintained the closest surveillance of the Soviet military buildup on the island of Cuba. Within the past week, unmistakable evidence has established the fact that a series of offensive missile sites is now in preparation on that imprisoned island," said the President.

Back in Scarsdale, NY, Steve sat on the couch with all four of his kids gathered around him as they watched and listened to the President's speech. Angela, Sarah, and Michael wore a face of pure shock upon hearing the news of offensive missiles on Cuba. John didn't understand what that meant but became nervous when he noticed his older siblings' attitude change. As Steve already knew this information, he remained calm and was prepared to help explain everything to his family.

"The purpose of these bases, can be none other, but to provide a nuclear strike capability against the Western Hemisphere. Upon receiving the first preliminary hard information of this nature, last Tuesday morning at 9-AM, I directed that our surveillance be stepped up. And now having confirmed and completed our evaluation of the evidence, and our decision on a course of action, this government feels obliged to report this new crisis to you in fullest detail." The

Angela looked up at her father, "Dad?"

Steve quickly glanced at his daughter, "One second, sweetheart."

The President continued, "The characteristic of this new missile sites indicate two distinct types of installation. Several of them include medium range ballistic missiles, capable of carrying a nuclear warhead for a distance more than 1,000 nautical miles. Each of these missiles in short are capable of striking Washington DC, the Panama Canal, Cape Canaveral, Mexico City, or any other city in the South Eastern part of the United States, in Central America, or the Caribbean area."

Sarah gasped, "Oh my God."

"Additional sites not yet completed, appear to be designed for intermediate range ballistic missiles, capable of traveling twice as far and thus capable of striking most of the major cities in the Western Hemisphere, ranging as far north as Hudson Bay, Canada, and as far south as Lima, Peru. By the presence of these large, long range, and clearly offensive weapons of sudden mass destruction, constitutes an explicit threat to the peace and security of all the Americas."

"This action contradicts the repeated assurances of Soviet spokesmen, both publicly and privately delivered, that the arms buildup in Cuba would retain its original defensive character, and that the Soviet Union had no need nor desire to station strategic missiles on the territory of any other nation. The size of this undertaking makes clear that it has been planned for some months."

Michael looked at his father, "This is why Mom had to leave..."

Steve nodded.

"Acting therefore on the defense of our own security, and the entire Western Hemisphere, and under the authority entrusted to me by the Constitution, I have directed the following initial steps be taken immediately. First, to halt the offensive buildup, a strict quarantine on all offensive military equipment under shipment to Cuba is being initiated. All ships of any kind, bound for Cuba, from whatever nation or port, will, if found to contain cargos of offensive weapons, be turned back. Second, I have directed the continued and increased close surveillance of Cuba and its military buildup, and should these military preparations continue, further action will be justified. I have directed the armed forces to prepare for any eventualities. And third, it shall be the policy of this nation to regard any nuclear missile launched from Cuba against any nation in the Western Hemisphere as an attack by the Soviet Union on the United States, required a full retaliatory response upon the Soviet Union…"

As the President continued to list his actions, Angela looked up at her dad, "Dad, what does this mean for us?"

Steve frowned, "We don't need to do anything, Angela. We just have to wait and see how it all unfolds" He patted her lap, "I'll tell you what we won't do. We won't panic, because I'm sure everyone is going to after hearing this."

Michael shook her head, "How can we not panic after hearing that the Soviets put nuclear missiles that close to our country."

"Because panic gets people hurt. Panic brings out the selfishness in people." He sighed, "Unfortunately, I'm going to need to stock up on groceries because panicking people are going to hoard and I'm going to need groceries to feed us."

John looked at his Dad, "What about, Mom? Why hasn't she called?"

Sarah wrapped her arm around her little brother, "Because Mom is busy protecting us right now," she said in a reassuring tone.

Steve smiled and nodded, "She's right. Your mom hasn't been able to call because she's working well into the night trying to protect us and advise the President."

John frowned, "Is she going to be okay?"

Steve hesitated. "She'll be fine," he said calmly. Truth was, in the event of a nuclear attack from the Soviets, Peggy would be evacuated with the President but they would be on their own. He didn't need to tell his family that. "And we'll be fine too," he said with a smile.

"Is she going to come back soon?"

Steve shook his head, "Not until this is done."

"Oh," John frowned.

Steve smiled, "I know you miss her, buddy, and I miss her too. But be proud and be secure that your mom isn't home because she's the one who's shielding you." He nodded, "She's protecting you from a nightmare and she has to do it away from home." John nodded. "She misses you a lot and thinks about you every day." He looked at all of his children, "She misses all of you so very much."

Angela frowned, "Mom, had to go because of this and she had to keep it a secret."

"Yeah," responded Steve. "She had too."

"I understand now."

Steve chuckled, "Well, I'm glad."

Angela shook her head, "I just want Mom to come home."

"She will. She always does," reassured Steve. He patted his lap, "Well, I got to make dinner, John, Angela, go upstairs and wash up."

John and Angela nodded and hopped off the couch and headed upstairs to their rooms to change for the evening.

Once the two youngest kids left, Sarah looked at her dad and felt like he was feeling troubled. "What is it, Dad?" She cocked her head to the side, "You knew about this before listening to the President, didn't you?"

Steve nodded, "Yeah. Your mom has been updating me. She's technically breaking the law but I still hold a security clearance, besides the government has bigger concerns if they caught her."

Sarah furrowed her brows, "But what are you thinking about right now?"

Steve frowned, "I didn't want to worry John and Angela, but I can tell you two." Michael leaned forward. "In the event of nuclear war, there's nothing we can do to save us."

Michael looked at him confused, "What do you mean nothing? Can't we make a fallout shelter or go to the city for one?"

Steve shook his head, "Those do-it-yourself and commercial fallout shelters don't protect you from anything. It's just false sense of security." He sighed, "And we won't make it to the city because from Cuba, those missiles will only take five minutes."

"Oh my God," said Sarah.

"And what about Mom? What about her?" Michael asked.

Steve shook his head, "She'll be evacuated with the President and or find shelter in a SHIELD bunker."

"And Mom said it wasn't anything to worry about," said Sarah under her breath, referencing the conversation they had with her before she left for DC.

Steve shook his head, "Look, don't be upset at your mother. There was no way she could've predicted this nor prepare us for this. She was doing her job by saying not to worry about it."

Sarah nodded, "We aren't upset at her. We… We are just scared at what's going to happen."

"What is the likelihood of a nuclear war with the Soviets? Be truthful with me on this, Dad," asked Michael.

Steve sighed, "High." He shook his head,"Your mom is doing her best to find an alternative to going to war and advising the President in what to do to avoid such a disaster." He shrugged, "Needless to say, she's under a lot of stress."

Sarah sighed and shook her head.

Steve frowned, "All we can do now is wait. And pray."

Sarah cuddled up to her father and frowned, fearing the inevitable.

Steve wrapped his arms around his two teens, "We'll be okay."

"I hope so," said Michael.

"We'll be okay. Everything always turns out to be alright," Steve said in a hopeful tone.


The Longest Day: 1962 American Epic on the invasion of Normandy during WWII.

Quote from HBO miniseries Chernobyl

Utilized the movie "Thirteen Days" to help with conversations, books such as The Cold War, Thirteen Days by Robert Kennedy, and One Minute to Midnight to help in writing this thing. Primarily used the movie for scenes and such and books for descriptions of events.

NOTE: Probably one of the hardest chapters to write and think about lol. Quoted a lot and kind of rearranged history just a little bit to fit the timeline.

Part 2 in the works to finish off the Crisis.

Edited 23 Mar 2020, Added some things