Once the plane reached cruising altitude, members of the flight crew began to see to the comfort of the passengers, and things settled down into a relaxed atmosphere. After changing into casual clothing, the President and First Lady emerged from their private quarters to greet and mingle with the other passengers. They were an affable couple who were good hosts, and they prided themselves on the fact they could put people at ease, even visiting dignitaries who disagreed with the President’s policies.
The team inside the pod continued to monitor the activities in the main cabin and cockpit, and proceeded with preparations for the passenger exchange.
About three hours into the flight, amid much yawning caused by the infusion of a small amount of the sleeping gas, the passengers began to ex
