To improve relations during a time of sensitive talks with the Arab Federation, NASA has (reluctantly) agreed to accept the son of King Alfazz into the space program. Although the Prince had particpated in the International Training Program 3 years prior, (and in which he placed last overall in his class) Bull and Krause are not happy with having to place him into an already prepared mission - especially when there are so many others better qualified, waiting to go. This is not a negotiable decision, they learn, and they are left with no choice but to agree with the politicians. The arrival of the Prince does nothing to make them feel any differently about the decision. The Prince is arrogant and dismissive of everyone, issuing orders and refusing to co-operate with anyone. First teacher in space, Peter is especially affected by the Princes arrival - he will lose significant amounts of time that were supposed to have been allotted to his class, to be taught around the world each d