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Pyramids*34
Lee and
She pulled herself gently away from his side. She thought she’d mastered the art of slipping from his side soon after they’d begun to sleep together. She was frequently called away in the night. As a warrior, he was trained to be a light sleeper, but she made it her goal to slip away without him waking. She smiled to herself, as she watched him sleep. Ben had told her it was all a scam. Lee always pretended to remain asleep because he knew it pleased her. Her smiled faded. She wondered how many other things he pretended in order to please her. She shook off her doubts and cursed this damn insecurity that plagued her. She watched him sleep a few moments longer and then broke the contact to scan the room. She had no desire to remain locked in any longer.
She spied the vent cover across the room and wondered if all the spy vids she’d seen in her life were at all realistic. Could she climb out of the room through the airshaft? Was it big enough? She glanced back at Lee. He rolled a bit more toward the empty space where she had been. Was he really asleep? She called softly to him. “Lee?”
Somewhere in his sleep, he heard his name. He stirred slightly and she repeated his name, somewhat louder. “Lee?”
“Hmmm?” He groaned and rolled over then shook his body and rubbed at his eyes. She smiled at the image of the sleepy, almost boyish face that finally turned to her. “What? Did someone unlock the door?”
Lee laughed. “You
woke me from a perfectly lovely dream to suggest we crawl through an air
duct? This isn’t the movies,
“Ok, hotshot Captain. Have you got a better idea?”
He rubbed his hands through his hair and stretched his neck. Pulling himself to his feet, he scanned the room himself. “Kara’s got to come back sometime.”
“Fine. You wait.
I’m getting out of here.” She
pulled an old chair over to the wall under the grate and climbed on it. She studied the vent cover and noted the
screws holding it in place. Climbing
back down, she moved to an old desk and began to scavenge through the
drawers. Lee watched her a minute and
then decided to humor her and help. They
found a letter opener and Lee started to climb onto the chair.
He chuckled and relinquished his position. Stepping back, he found himself distracted by the movement of, in his opinion, her perfect behind, which sashayed slightly from her efforts, right in his face.
When she’d free the vent cover, she looked back over her shoulder and saw the expression on Lee’s face. “EXCUSE ME!” He shook his head and struggled to meet her eyes. “If you aren’t going to support me in this, the least you can do is not watch my ass!”
He smiled rakishly. “But it’s such a great ass.”
“I swear to gods, Lee…” She cringed at the dust she saw as she pulled the cover away and peered into the shaft. She dusted off her hands and took in a deep breath to steady her nerves.
Lee smiled. “You really are serious about this?” She glared back over her shoulder. “Alright, get down. I’ll go.” He moved closer and pulled at her arm.
She snapped her arm away from him. “I told you, this is MY RESCUE!” She ignored his presence and turned back to her task. She muttered about how tough colonial warriors weren’t. She couldn’t quite figure out how to pull herself up. There didn’t seem to be anything to grab onto inside the duct.
Lee watched her struggle and smiled, but did nothing to assist her. She finally looked back at him and demanded help. He played innocent. “What? This is YOUR rescue.”
“GET OVER HERE AND HELP ME UP!”
Lee mocked her and jumped to full attention before leaping to her aide. “Get down and let me do this.”
“No! I just need a hand up.”
“
She shook her head and stood defiantly. “You weigh too much.”
“What? Get DOWN!” He tugged harder.
She slapped his hand. “No. You weigh too much. You might fall through.”
“Oh for frak’s
sake.
“I’m not testing it. Either help me up or…”
Again his wicked grin appeared. “Or what?”
Tom Zarek had remained fairly secluded following his defeat in the elections. He still remained on the Quorum so eventually he had to see to his duties. He’d relayed congratulations to President Roslin but hadn’t spoken with her. He didn’t think she’d be smug toward him but he wasn’t ready to see her yet anyway.
Admiral Cain had been summoning him for over a week now and he could no longer avoid her. He waited in her office. She always made him wait when she was angry. She breezed in a few minutes later and all but ignored him. She settled at her desk and lifted her eyes to stare at him. “Mr. Zarek, how nice of you to visit.”
“I’ve been busy. I couldn’t make it until now.” He offered his excuse, hoping she would accept it.
“Busy? Do you have a lot to do now that you’ve lost the presidency?” She didn’t attempt to hide her anger.
He smiled. “You couldn’t afford me some time to lick my wounds?”
“What about mine? I had just as much invested in this as you did. Now I’m stuck with that damn woman!” She slammed her hand on her desk to emphasize her point.
Zarek swallowed hard. “This didn’t work out like we wanted, but I’m still on the Quorum. I am not without power and influence and you certainly aren’t either. I’m not sure why you’re so upset.” He smiled charmingly. “It’s not what we wanted, but we’re alright.”
“Damn THEM!” Cain behaved as if she was alone in the room. “This is all their fault. How can I take care of the fleet if they keep interfering?”
Zarek didn’t like what he was seeing at all. He knew deep down that Cain was losing her grasp on reality and knew he had to do something. He was actually beginning to fear not only her but also what she might do to the fleet. Part of him wanted to ignore her. The other part of him needed to know more about whom she was ranting about. “Who?”
Cain’s eyes flashed at him. “The damn doctor and the fraking Commander, who else? If she’d been killed as she should have been, you’d be president right now.”
Zarek knew then and there that Cain had to be removed. In his mind, he began to develop a plan. You couldn’t just remove an Admiral without consequences. He didn’t have time to think further. Cain suddenly transformed into a needy woman and slowly slunk her way around the desk. “And I’ve missed you.” She molded herself to his body. “I don’t want to be an Admiral right now. Make me feel like a woman!”
Lee had no idea why he’d been sent to Cloud Nine that day. The Commander had asked him to meet with the Captain about some engine problems they were experiencing. Lee had wondered why the Chief wasn’t coming, but he’d stopped questioning orders. When he arrived, the Captain had no idea why Lee had been ordered there. Lee went to return to his viper, only to be told the bay door was temporarily jammed and he was unable to take off. He knew his conspiracy theory was correct when he saw her sitting at the bar, lost in thought. He settled on a seat near her.
“Come here often?” Lee coughed slightly under the words, trying to disguise his voice.
“Ah, come on. Give a guy a break. Can I buy you a drink?” No disguise was used.
“How about dinner then?”
She finally turned to face him, intending to stay strong and continue to ignore his advances. “I don’t eat.” It hadn’t come out as strong as she had hoped. One look at Lee’s vivid blue eyes and dimples caused her resolve to flee.
Lee raised an eyebrow. “That can’t be healthy. You should see a doctor.”
He grinned. “I do, but she’s not speaking to me right now.”
Lee looked genuinely wounded. His hand went to his heart and he feigned death. “Ouch! You know, you remind me of her.”
“I do?”
Lee leaned in a bit. “Yeah. She’s beautiful and smart and sexy, very sexy.”
“Does she know you hit on strange women in bars?”
He thought a moment. “No. I only hit on women who overwhelmingly remind me of her.”
“Does that happen often?”
He shook his head. “So, have dinner with me?”
She shook her head. “I couldn’t. You’re obviously attached to this woman.”
Lee offered a puppy dog look. “Alas, she ignores me.”
Lee grew serious. “She believes she needs to find herself. Well, not so much find herself… I’m not sure I can explain it.”
Lee looked at
“She can’t give herself to you until she finds what she thinks she’s lacking.”
He nodded. “That’s what she said. The thing is, I don’t see it.”
“Don’t see what?”
“What she thinks she’s lacking… I think she’s amazing and I love her just as she is. I’m actually a little afraid.”
“What if she finds this thing she thinks she’s missing and then discovers she doesn’t really need or want me?”
A tear formed on the edge of
Lee tried to smirk. “How can I be sure? It also makes me wonder if I have to look inside myself and make some changes.”
“Has she asked you to change?”
He shook his head. “No, but I didn’t ask her to either. Maybe I’m being selfish? Maybe I need to change some things too.”
Lee smiled at her abrupt change in tone and rejoined the game as well. “Why not? I thought women loved it when men opened their hearts to them?”
“Lords, no. It’s a huge turn off.”
Lee leaned in closer and smiled seductively. “You mean you were turned on before?”
Lee noticed the band’s flyer. “Do you dance?”
She followed his eyes and knew his plan. “Do you ever give up?”
“Not until you have dinner, a drink and dance with me. You know, you might not have noticed the uniform, but I am a Colonial Warrior.”
Lee groaned. She’d gotten him good on that one. He coughed to clear his throat and buy some time. “It was. I’ve been promoted.” He couldn’t even come up with a better response.
She laughed. “I’m sure the promotion was well deserved.”
He looked at her sheepishly. “You could stay with me and help me celebrate.” He leaned in closer. “Please?”
As she gazed into his eyes, she knew he’d won. “I suppose. It’s the least I can do since that other woman won’t help you celebrate.”
Lee smiled.
Zarek left the Pegasus and ordered his pilot to proceed immediately to the Galactica. There was some difficulty in obtaining landing permission, but eventually Zarek was escorted to Commander Adama’s quarters. When he entered, he heard laughter and saw Laura Roslin sitting in a chair across from the Commander’s desk. Zarek looked at Roslin. “I see why I got landing approval.”
Adama rose to his feet. “What is it that was so important, Mr. Zarek?”
Zarek believed that no matter what happened, there would always be contempt in Adama’s voice when he spoke to him. “We have a problem.”
Roslin didn’t want to take Zarek seriously, but there was
something in his tone of voice, which deflated her mood. She and Adama had been enjoying the small
intervention they’d arranged for
“Admiral Cain has to be removed from command. She’s losing it and I’m afraid for Doctor Davis’s life.” Zarek saw both their jaws set in determination.
Adama was deadly serious. “That’s a serious accusation. You’d better have some proof.”
Zarek proceeded to detail all he knew, holding nothing back. When Zarek had finished, Roslin and Adama were silent. Just as Adama was about to speak, his office hatch opened without permission.
“I don’t believe it? Have I just stumbled upon three colonial leaders plotting treason?” Three sets of eyes turned to stare blankly at Admiral Cain.
Adama quickly settled himself. “Admiral? I wasn’t aware you’d come on board.”
Cain eyed him coolly. “Obviously. It’s a good thing I did come though. It seems we have a serious problem in this fleet and now we can do something about it.”
Roslin rose from her chair and stood slightly in between the two military commanders. “Admiral Cain, just what is this problem? Surely you were joking a moment ago.”
Cain displayed a phony smile. “I’m not sure. I’m concerned though. I was under the impression Mr. Zarek wasn’t welcome on Galactica and yet here he is.”
Adama responded. “Mr. Zarek is a member of the Quorum. He is permitted on Galactica if he wishes.”
“Really?” Cain raised an eyebrow. “And Madame President’s visit?”
Adama knew what she meant, but Roslin didn’t know anything about the Admiral’s orders to Adama. “Why wouldn’t I visit the Galactica?”
Cain stood her ground. “I think the better question is why would you? What possible business could you have here on board? Commander Adama takes his orders from me.”
It suddenly occurred to her why Adama had been somewhat distant lately. One look at Adama’s face confirmed her suspicions. “Admiral, the Commander and I were discussing a personal matter. Is that not allowed?”
“A personal matter? What would that be, Madame President?” Cain asked.
Roslin smiled warmly. “Well, if you must know, we arranged a small meeting for Doctor Davis and Captain Adama.”
Cain returned a smile, but there was no warmth. “Really? And the three of you are in on this plan?”
Roslin, demonstrating her savviest skills, replied calmly. “No, of course not. I have been asking Mr. Zarek to visit with me for some time now. I’d like to see if it is possible to bury the hatchet and perhaps improve our working relationship.”
Cain smiled. “I see. Very well then. See that you don’t bury the hatchet in someone’s back.”
Cain remained on Galactica obviously inventing reasons to stay. When she left, she insisted Zarek come with her 'to save fleet resources.' As soon as he felt it was safe, he returned to Galactica.
When Lee got back to the Galactica late that night, he went immediately to his father’s quarters. He knew his father wouldn’t be asleep. He knocked and when he entered, he was surprised to see President Roslin and Tom Zarek as well. “Has something happened?”
“Lee, come in. We have to talk.” Adama made the request and didn’t seem bothered by the presence of the others.
“Sir?” Lee questioned.
“Lee, Mr. Zarek has brought us some information. I think you need to listen to what he has to say.” Adama stated quietly.
“Zarek?” Lee couldn’t stop the doubt from escaping. One look from his father and he sat down to hear what the former terrorist had to say.
When Zarek finished, Lee was ready to spring into action. “We have to get her off that ship, NOW!”
Adama waved his son down. “Don’t worry, Lee. We will but we can’t rush this. We can’t draw attention to it or it will make matters worse.”
Roslin spoke next. “Call her on the secured line and tell her to pack her things to leave. We don’t have time to go into a lot of detail, you’ll have to convince her to move quickly, but calmly.”
Lee nodded. “I can do it, but how will we get her off?”
“Ying and Yang will fly her over.” Adama said. “Once we have her here, we’ll have to keep her here. We’ll tell Cain you two decided to marry and that’s why she’s moved over.”
“What if Cain transfers me back?” Lee asked, worried about the whole situation.
“We’ll have to deal with that when we come to it.” Adama answered.
“Hopefully, between the President and the Quorum, we’ll have the evidence we need to remove her from command.” Zarek added.
Lee looked directly at Zarek. “What’s in this for you? Why do you care?”
Zarek blushed from tension and scowled just a bit at having to defend himself again. “Cain is a threat to this fleet. She’s unstable.”
“So why worry about
Zarek’s voice was low. “I owe her that much.”
Dennis glanced around and saw that she hadn’t packed anything. He walked over to her closet and pulled out the suitcases within. “Not when it’s this important. Now get this stuff packed, fast.”
Tommy grabbed her arm.
“
She quickly threw her clothes and other belongings into the
cases with no care. When they were
sealed, Dennis grabbed them both and started out the door. Tommy was ushering
Tommy grabbed her arm. “No. Leave it. We’ll try to get it later.”
She shook his off. “No! This is important. I’ll only be a minute. You need to do the pre-flights anyway. I’ll be right back.” She jumped off the ramp and ran through the bay. Something in Tommy told him he should have gone with her, but he didn’t.
Lee paced his father’s office. No matter how many times his dad told him to relax, he couldn’t. He had an overwhelming sense of dread about what was transpiring on the Pegasus.
Admiral Cain marched through the causeways of the Pegasus. A large, confident smile lit her lips. Today, she was going to prove to the Adamas who was in charge. Once the Adamas were in line, Roslin would cave as well.
She watched as
“Off somewhere, Doctor?” Cain asked innocently.
“With a dress?” Cain asked.
“I see.” Cain answered. “I’m afraid I can’t allow you to take it though.”
Tommy smiled and broke in.
“You ready to go,
Cain reached over and took the garment bag from
“Admiral? Since when do I need permission to
leave?”
Cain ignored the question and turned to Tommy. “You may leave, Lieutenant.”
“Admiral Cain, we were waiting for the doctor.” He replied.
“I said, LEAVE, Lieutenant. Unless you have no need to go to Galactica now that Doctor Davis is remaining here.”
“No, Sir.” Tommy
looked questioningly at
Cain smiled. “I’m afraid not. You see I believe that in the best interest of the fleet, you should join the military.”
Cain smiled sickly. “You don’t understand. I’m not giving you an option.”
“CONSCRIPTION?” Lee roared. “SHE CAN’T DO THAT!!!”
Adama used both hands on Lee’s shoulders to push the angry man into a chair. He didn’t bother with a verbal reprimand. Lee was beyond being an officer. “Continue, Tommy.”
Tommy drew in a deep breath, never having felt like more of
a failure in his life. “Admiral Cain has
conscripted
“It’s impossible. We haven’t condoned conscription, even at our most desperate hour we have taken only volunteers into the military.” Roslin added. “She’s gone too far now.”
Roslin didn’t even discuss it with the others present. She marched to the phone and asked to be connected with Admiral Cain. She waited a few minutes. No one in the room said anything. Roslin held her hand up when someone came onto the other end.
“Tell her it is important!” “I insist on speaking with her NOW!” “Do you know who I am? This is PRESIDENT ROSLIN! I am the Admiral’s superior!” Roslin slammed the phone onto the receiver. “How dare she!” She looked at Adama. “It looks like we need to pay the Admiral a visit in person.”
In a few minutes, Lee was piloting a shuttle filled with President Roslin and his father. He continued to argue for a marine presence as well. “Dad, please?”
“Lee, for the last time, NO. Cain isn’t going to hurt
Lee didn’t argue further, but Adama could tell, he was bottling it up inside. They didn’t receive immediate landing clearance. It was only after Roslin got on the line that the XO finally relented. Lee rose from his chair and began to follow Roslin and his father. Adama turned quickly. “Stay here. I repeat. DO NOT leave this shuttle.”
“BUT, SIR!” Lee growled.
“CAPTAIN! I gave you an order. I expect you to follow it. This is not the time for you to be flying off half cocked. STAY HERE!”
It took all of Lee’s will power and restraint to return to his seat.
Roslin and Adama made it to Cain’s office in record time. They didn’t wait to be announced. They entered and found Cain waiting for them. “Hello.” She stated pleasantly.
Roslin unleashed her attack. “Admiral Cain, you have no right to conscript Doctor Davis and I demand you bring her to us immediately.”
Cain smiled. “I disagree, Madame President. Doctor Davis is a highly skilled, necessary professional. I cannot risk losing her, so in the best interests of the fleet and using the full authorization given me by the state of war, I conscripted her. She’s in basic training as we speak. I can’t interrupt her.”
In that moment, all the moments that had led up to this one flashed through Adama’s mind. He wondered briefly where he might have made a different move to avoid this moment. “She doesn’t need to be conscripted to contribute her skills. She has demonstrated her willingness to help from the beginning.”
Cain continued to smile. She was in total confidence of her victory. “I disagree. She plans to marry and that will distract her from her more pressing duties.”
Adama roared. “That’s ridiculous! Nowhere does it say a military person can’t marry. There’s no evidence it will change her dedication whatsoever.”
“Again, I disagree, Commander. I happen to believe that marriage to your son will cause Doctor Davis to be less available to the fleet. I believe that if she has to choose between the fleet and her husband, she will chose her husband. For this reason, she had to be conscripted.”
“I demand to see her, right now!” Roslin glared at the Admiral.
“I told you. She’s in training. It’s best not to disturb her.” She added. “You are both acting like I did this against her will.”
Roslin moved closer to the Admiral and stared her down. “You will bring her here, right now. Is that understood?”
Cain’s smile returned. “Very well.” She stepped to the phone and quietly ordered the voice on the other end to bring the doctor to her quarters.
A few tense minutes later, the door opened and two guards
escorted
“WHAT ON CAPRICA HAPPENED?”
Roslin rushed forward and tried to touch
Cain seemed nonplussed.
“She’s learning to fight. Accidents
happen. It looks worse then it is, right
She’d beaten
The hold that Cain used on
Adama moved in between
Adama was about to ask another question, but Roslin cut him off. “Did Admiral Cain force you into this? Did she threaten you in any way?”
Cain laughed.
“See. You are both so eager to
see the worst in me. Leave the Doctor
alone now. She has work
to do.” She told the guards to remove
Once they were again alone, Cain spoke first. “I think we’re through here, aren’t we?”
Adama glared at her and Roslin stared in disbelief. “You can’t believe you’re going to get away with this? I intend to take this to the Quorum.”
Cain laughed confidently. “Why would I be worried? I’ve done nothing wrong.”
Adama stepped forward. “No one believes that.”
Cain smiled. “Prove it. Good bye!”
Roslin stood her ground. “This doesn’t speak well for the fleet Admiral.”
Cain disagreed. “That’s where you’re wrong. We’ve sent a clear message to the fleet.”
Roslin stormed out of the office. Adama left somewhat slower. Cain called out to him. “Commander, you know what the message was, correct?”
“What message?” He asked, not willing to play her game.
“To the fleet and especially you and your son.”
“What was that?” He replied. “Just to be sure we agree.”
“Don’t frak with me.”
“Or?”
“Or she will die. Understood?”
Adama said nothing. Cain questioned him. “Is that understood, Commander?”
“Understood, Sir.” He replied flatly.
“I trust you will occupy your time making your son understand as well? We wouldn’t want something happening to him if he were to try something stupid, like seeing her.”
“My son will understand.”
Feeling a total victory, Cain’s smile was a large as possible. “Very good then.”
She huddled in the corner of her cell and did all she could to keep her mind active. She relived memories of Lee to bring herself comfort, sang simple songs to relieve the silence and talked herself through detailed surgical procedures to stimulate her brain. Now and again, she allowed the tears to stream down her face. She’d wanted to find inner strength within herself, but she’d never dreamed of a situation like this. Over and over she wondered what she had done to deserve this.
The slot slid open but nothing came through.
“Doctor Davis? How
are you?” Admiral Cain asked as if it
was a casual meeting in a causeway.
“Nothing, really. You lived. Had you not destroyed Zarek’s candidacy I wouldn’t have been forced to take such drastic measures.”
“How long do you intend to keep me like this?” She bravely asked.
“It depends on you.”
“What so you want from me?”
“I don’t like this.
You must know that. We need your
medical skills. So, I’ll make you a
deal.”
“I’m listening.” Came the quiet reply.
“I’m going to release you. You can return to your quarters and clean up. After a good hot meal and a good night’s sleep, you can return to your duty station.”
“And for this generosity, I have to do what?”
“I need a doctor.” For Cain, the whole situation was very simple. “If you violate the deal, they both die, same as before.”
The lock immediately clicked and a bright, harsh light
blinded
“FRAK THIS!” Lee marched over to the phone on Roslin’s desk and handed it to his father. “Order the marines to strike NOW, SIR!”
“Lee, calm down!”
Adama had had the same thought many times in the past few days. It was all he could do to keep his son and
CAG from orchestrating his own rescue mission.
If he thought it would help to raid the Pegasus, he’d have ordered it
days ago. Adama knew better. Cain would ensure that many innocent people
would die in the process, including
Lee growled and slammed the phone down. “TIME? No one has seen her for DAYS! We don’t know if she’s even alive! WE DON’T HAVE TIME!”
Adama again tried to soothe his son. “Lee, calm down.
Lee ignored his father’s words. He picked up the phone again. “Call them, Dad. Please. Order them to get her off that ship.” Lee begged his father for action.
Adama took the phone from his son’s hand and replaced it. “No, Lee.”
Lee grabbed the phone off the desk and threw it against the wall. “DAMN YOU! You talk about wanting to be my FATHER and then EVERY FRAKING TIME I NEED YOU, YOU FAIL ME!”
Adama drew in a deep breath before he spoke again. His son’s words hurt, but he knew he had to
ignore them. It was Lee’s pain talking,
nothing more. “Lee, you know that’s not
true. You’ve got to get your head in
this. You’re speaking with your heart
right now. Cain is expecting that. Both Roslin and Zarek are working on the
Quorum. If we can remove Cain, we can
get
“It’s not going to happen.” Neither man had noticed Roslin enter. “The Quorum doesn’t believe we have enough evidence.”
Lee sagged into a chair. Adama looked directly at Roslin. “Why not?”
Roslin frowned. “Cain
trumped us. When they went over to the
Pegasus on their supposed inspection,
“Cain’s good.” Adama mused.
“But still no Marines, huh?” Lee stood and left the room with no further word.
Roslin watched him go. “This is hard on him.”
“It’s hard on us all!” Adama’s voice betrayed a bit too much bite. He breathed deeply. “Any suggestions?”
Roslin laughed. “You’re the military. I’m civilian, remember?”
Adama sighed. “I was hoping to avoid a military incursion. What does it say about the human race if in the light of the Cylon menace, we’re fighting ourselves?”
Roslin nodded. “This sucks!”
Adama laughed, softly at first and then with gusto. “Sucks?” He repeated.
Roslin began to laugh as well. “Well, do you have a better word?”
Still chuckling, he shook his head. “No, but I hardly think you’d let your students use that language.”
She smiled thoughtfully. “Those days seem so long ago.”
Adama looked at the smashed phone on the floor. “Yeah, I know.”
The silence between them was interrupted by a call. It came through on a line across the room. Roslin moved to answer it. “Roslin… Yes, Billy. Put Admiral Cain through.” Roslin glanced at Adama to find she had his full attention. “Admiral Cain. How can I help you?” She listened. “Has there been a threat?” Her head automatically nodded. “If you feel that’s best, yes, of course. How long…” She shared eye contact with Adama. “Certainly. Yes. Thank you.”
“What’s she done now?” Adama asked when Roslin had ended the call.
“We’re jumping.”
“Why?”
“Scouts have revealed a promising planet with no evidence of Cylon presence. She wants the whole fleet to jump.”
“Why not send a scouting party?”
“She says she did and that we’re jumping.”
“I’d better get back to Galactica.” He paused on his way out the door. “You know, she can’t…”
Roslin nodded. “It’s been ages since I’ve seen Commander Adama. He’s keeping himself quite busy these days.”
He smiled.
Despite being in uniform, Lee left the room and began jogging. There really weren’t wide enough corridors on Colonial One to all out run as he wanted, but the motion felt good. He had no idea where all he’d managed to run or how much time had passed. Lee found himself at his viper and debated an unauthorized fun flight. He felt the need to challenge something. What better then a massive, powerful Viper? He climbed aboard and began to press the buttons that would prep his engines for launch. On the third flick of a switch, warning lights blinked at him. “Frak! What else could go wrong?” He switched on his radio and reported his status. As if the lords were listening, a few minutes later he felt the subtle lurch of the ship as it erupted into an FTL jump.
Adama had barely made it back to CIC when Petty Officer Dualla began announcing fleet jump status. Early on, Cain had announced that Galactica
would be the last ship to jump, with Pegasus leading the jump.
“Commander?” Lieutenant Gaeta interrupted. “We’ve not received the jump coordinates from Pegasus.”
“What?” Saul Tigh shouted. “How can that be?”
Adama knew instantly. “Cain’s decided to lose us.” He whispered to his XO and friend, who was well aware of the private war being waged.
Tigh whispered through gritted teeth. “The woman would lose an entire compliment of a battlestar for her little power trip?”
“So it would seem.”
Adama concluded. “
They waited.
“Sir?” The confused man asked. “We aren’t jumping?”
“Not yet.” Adama had a plan. He smiled. “Is Apollo on board?”
Tigh didn’t understand his Commander’s decision and didn’t want to wait any longer for an explanation. “Why did we wait? We got the coordinates. Let’s go let Cain know she failed to lose us.”
Adama smiled. “Let’s not.” He
summoned
Gina flinched and tried to roll away.
“Gina, tell me what’s wrong.
It’s
As Gina rolled, the bruises that marred her face came into full view. Wet streams of tears blurred the blood from cuts. “Admiral Cain decided since there was another more important Cylon on the Galactica, they could be more aggressive in seeking information from me.”
The repairs to Lee’s ship were simple and he was ready to launch in no time. He was preparing to do just that when President Roslin appeared on the deck. “Madame President? You shouldn’t be here. I was just about to launch. You’re not safe when there’s no tube.”
She smiled, then sobered. “There’s something you need to know before you launch.”
Lee noted her expression change and worried. “What’s happened?
“The Galactica never received the jump coordinates.”
“What? So she didn’t jump? We have to go back. What happened?” He was filled with questions. He thought instantly of his father and guilt rushed in. He had been thinking with his heart, not his head.
“I think Cain planned it. My captain informs me he did transmit the coordinates to Galactica before we jumped and they acknowledged receipt.”
“But they aren’t here?”
“No. I already called Cain. She tells me she’s checking into it.”
“Did you tell her we sent the coordinates?” He asked, hoping he knew her answer and hoping she was on the same page.
“No. And I told the Captain to keep it to himself as well.”
Lee let go of the breath he’d been holding. “This is tricky.”
Roslin nodded. “As I see it, the Galactica is lost. So you will have to return to the Pegasus.”
Lee smiled. “She’ll have to take me on.”
“It certainly would raise serious questions in the fleet if for some reason she didn’t.”
“Enough to question her command?”
“And with the loss of the Galactica…” She mused. “But if the Galactica were to suddenly appear and find us…”
“And report how they didn’t receive the coordinates.” They were on the same track.
She looked away from him for a few moments, deep in thought. “You’ve got to get over there. We need someone on the inside before she has time to cover her tracks.”
Lee nodded. “I’ll leave… just as soon as you clear the deck.”
She grinned again. “Always saving me, aren’t you?” She grew serious. “I’m worried for you. I have no idea what she might try.”
He grinned confidently.
“But you forget. I won’t be
alone. Not only is
Lee opened his communications. “Ah, Pegasus Apollo.”
A disembodied voice responded, although not until an awkward amount of time had passed. “Pegasus Apollo. Go ahead.”
“I seem to have lost my ship. Can you confirm Galactica’s status?” He urged his voice to sound uncertain. In reality, Lee was nervous but his training refused to allow it out. He had no idea where Galactica was. He trusted that his father was facing whatever challenge had been presented.
He was met with silence again and then to his surprise, Admiral Cain herself spoke. “Captain Adama, we have no report on Galactica but I have already ordered a raptor to return to our prior location and discover her fate.”
“Her fate?” Lee had felt confident until Cain had responded. The use of the word fate struck fear in his heart. Had Cain done more then simply leave Galactica behind? “I wasn’t told of a Cylon attack. I assume there was a simple miscommunication.”
“Exactly what we assume as well, Captain.” Cain replied. “Land and report to me. Cain out.”
“Yes, Sir. Apollo out.” Lee sighed. He’d half expected Pegasus to deny him landing permission.
He landed his viper flawlessly and handed the deck crew his helmet. He ordered the crewmember to check out the engines again and as an after thought threw out. “And see that no one tampers with my ship. I’d prefer not to have any more attempts on my life aboard Pegasus.”
He wanted badly to go to Life Station rather then Admiral Cain’s office but knew he needed to play the role of a perfectly loyal officer. “Admiral Cain, reporting as ordered, Sir.” The door had been open. He’d entered and snapped to attention following a perfect salute.
“At ease, Captain.” She looked up from her papers. “It seems you’ve returned to Pegasus after all.”
“Yes, Sir.” He paused. “When do we expect the report from the raptor?”
“I have no idea. Soon, I hope. This isn’t a good situation. We can’t go losing ships.”
Lee shifted slightly. “Of course not. I observed the planet briefly. When do you intend to begin exploration?”
She smiled, but it was forced. “You are quick, Captain.”
He modestly glanced away. It wasn’t the direction he wanted to go. He knew Cain didn’t like threats and he had no desire to appear as one. “I assumed that is why we made the jump to this location. It looks promising from the brief views I got.”
She smiled. “That it is. I hope to begin sending crews down immediately. Since you are currently without a ship, I shall assign you as necessary.”
“I’m happy to serve in any way I can until the Galactica rejoins the fleet.”
“Of course you are.” Cain grew serious. “Captain, I fully expect you to stay away from Doctor Davis. Is that understood?”
Lee had an overwhelming desire to squirm from the glare Cain sent his way. “May I ask why?”
“She is not interested in pursuing your former relationship. She is happy and content here and I don’t think it is necessary to bother her.”
“She told you this?” He boldly insisted, forgetting his role.
“She did. Do I need to make it an order, Captain?” Cain rose to her feet.
“No, Sir. If
“Why don’t you find yourself a bunk until further notice. Of course, the CAG’s quarters are no longer available to you.” She walked to a bookshelf and shuffled some books around.
Lee saw her obvious ploy to seem relaxed. He grinned behind her back. “Of course, Admiral. I’m sure I’ll find an empty space.”
“Dismissed.”
Lee saluted and left quickly. He went immediately to the quarters that he knew Kara, Tommy and Dennis had taken over. They were bunks taken over by Galactica transfers, so he knew he would be safe among friends.
“Anyone home?” He knocked after the fact. “LEE!” Kara ran to him and pulled him into a hug. Realizing what she had done, she stopped abruptly and pulled back. “Sorry. Just… I can’t believe you’re on this ship. I mean this whole situation is frakked up.”
He laughed. “It’s ok, Kara. I appreciate it. Which frakked up situation are you referring to?”
“Which one? Is there more than one? I was talking about
“The Galactica has disappeared.”
Kara stepped back. “You shouldn’t joke about something like that, Lee.”
“I’m not.” He glanced around to make sure they were alone and then pulled her into the head and turned on the water. He explained all that they knew so far.
Kara was stunned. “I knew she wasn’t firing with all thrusters, but this is insane.” She kept her voice low, now as worried as Lee.
He nodded. “Where are Ying and Yang?”
“On CAP.” She answered.
“Damn. I was hoping she’d sent them to our old coordinates. At least I could trust their observation.”
Kara shook her head. “Knowing her, she sent Dobson and his buddy Creighton. She has them do a lot of her dirty work.”
Lee groaned. “I dealt with Dobson. I figured he was the one who attacked me.”
“I bet he was the one who killed the other two.” She added. “On her orders.” She paused again and then went on. “This is bad, Lee. What are we gonna do?”
Lee wasn’t listening to her. He was scanning his own body, flexing parts. Kara had no idea what he was thinking about. “What are you doing?”
“Wondering what I can risk injuring?” He pulled himself up to sit on the counter.
“Hold on. I got an idea.” Kara ran over to the laundry hamper and dug for a towel. She pulled one out that had blood on it. “Here.”
Lee grimaced, unsure of what he was being offered. “I’d rather cut myself.”
Kara rolled her head and eyes. “I nicked myself shaving this morning. Jeesh! What’s important here? You can’t hurt yourself just to see the wonder girl.”
Lee raised an eyebrow at her tone.
“Look, I’m sorry. Old habits die hard. We’re never gonna be best friends, accept it.” In a whisper, she added. “She’ll always have what I wanted.”
Lee scowled.
“WANTED… past tense. I’m over you, ok?” She hopped up next to him. “I’m always going to love you, Lee. That’ll never change. I know I screwed up. Once a screw-up, always a screw-up, haven’t we learned that yet? I’m sorry.” She watched his face closely for a reaction. He remained stoic. She really needed him to forgive her. “Look! Would I go to all the trouble to reunite you if I didn’t believe you were meant to be with her? I lost my mind, Lee. I always do stupid things and I always will. You accepted that. I got confused… possessive. Are you ever gonna forgive me?”
His head dropped and he drew in a long, slow breath. “Yeah, I am.”
She smiled. “Give me your hand.” He did as ordered and she wrapped the towel as if it was his hand that caused the blood. “Let’s go see your lady friend or whatever it is you call her.”
“My lady?” He offered, smiling. He knew such a term of endearment would make her gag. He would never tell her the story behind the names.
“Yuck. Please don’t do that.”
She walked next to him in silence. They entered life station and Kara called out. “Anyone here to help a person out?”
Diana came around the corner. She gasped. “Thank the lords you’re here.” She ushered the new arrivals further in and sequestered them behind a curtain. “You have to help. She won’t talk to me. Something’s wrong.”
“This whole ship is wrong.” Kara added.
“Is she here?” Lee asked optimistically.
Diana nodded. “I’ll get her.” She left and returned a few moments later. “She’s coming.”
As she finished,
She whispered his name.
“Lee.” Then
added more loudly. “What are you
doing here?”
Lee smiled. “I cut my hand. Kara is positive it needed stitches.” He winked and unwrapped his undamaged hand, wiggling his fingers for effect.
Diana stepped out. Kara followed commenting on hating to see the sight of blood from whimpy captains.
When they were alone, Lee pulled
He whispered back. “Why not?”
“She’ll…” Images of Ben flashed through her brain again. “She said she’d kill you and your dad. She said the measures were already in place. She could kill you at any time.”
Lee tried to silence her. He placed his hands gently on either side of her head. “Shhh… She can’t hurt us.”
“Is that why you lied to the Quorum?”
“I know. We all do. We’re going to take care of this.”
“But Lee, how? She has me watched like a hawk. No one is allowed to be near me.”
“I don’t know for sure. We have another problem. The Galactica is missing. Right now, we have to make life work here. There’s no where safe to go.”
“What? No, Lee.”
Lee smiled. “Don’t worry. I’m sure Dad has the situation well in hand. That means we need to make this one work for us. I’ve been ordered not to see you.”
“I was told to make you believe I want nothing further to do with you if I saw you.”
He frowned. “So, for
now, we do what we’re told. But
She nodded. “I’ll be ready. You be careful!”
He grinned. “I will. I won’t be running back for a wedding dress.”
Zarek was again invited to Colonial One. He arrived unsure of what to expect. President Roslin met him in her private quarters.
“Your private quarters, Madame President? I had no idea you trusted me this much.” He joked.
She smiled politely while her words delivered the sting. “I’m told this is how you like to meet women in power.”
Zarek smirked and nodded, accepting the chide. “I guess I deserved that.”
“You did. It seems you were willing to do just about anything to win the presidency…”
Zarek cut her off. “Madame President, I resent your implication. I had nothing to do with the attacks on Captain Adama and Doctor Davis. I accept that it was my men, but I had no knowledge. I resent this. I came to you last, remember?”
“And look where that’s gotten us. Now, we’ve lost the only dependable protection this fleet had and both the Captain and Doctor are in that woman’s clutches.” Roslin made her point with underlying anger barely contained.
“So what do you want from me?” He asked directly.
“If you were prepared to become the president to save this fleet, what are you willing to do now?”
Zarek once again found himself waiting in Cain’s office. He’d run through the plan in his mind over and over again and yet still wondered about his ability to carry it off. At one time, he’d have been high on the exhilaration of the situation, but now, he felt the fear deep within him.
“Mr. Zarek? I’m shocked that you would dare show your face around here.” Cain had entered while he was deep in thought.
He smiled confidently. “I had no idea I wasn’t welcome.”
“Really?” She moved to his side and pushed him down into a chair. She remained standing above him. “You tried to turn the Quorum against me and then think you’d be welcome on my ship?”
Zarek felt sudden confidence. He was playing in his own league. “Now, now Admiral. You know me. I move where I see the most power. It’s the only way to get things done. Does it surprise you I went along with Adama and Roslin? Really?”
She smiled cruelly. “Of course not, you’re a coward who hides behind words.”
He nodded. “Perhaps, I wasn’t always. Certainly you know that? Now, I’m here.”
“Alright, I’ll bite. What do you want?” Cain sat on the edge of her desk.
“As always, I want to play on the winning side.”
“And that’s mine.” She stated.
“Exactly.” He leaned forward in his chair, feeling confident. “You see. I figure you managed to get rid of the Galactica. Now, I’m not saying I think that was the wisest course of action, but it took balls. I like that. I appreciate a woman who understands the need to use extremes. No doubt about that, correct?”
She nodded. “Go on. Although I have no knowledge of the Galactica’s disappearance.”
He nodded and smiled. “Of course not.” He stood up and moved closer to her. He could smell her arousal. “If you can get rid of a battlestar without firing a shot, I’d like to be near you when President Roslin finally goes too far.”
“What makes you think it would help you to be near me?” She asked, as she leaned her head toward his neck and planted a light kiss.
He pulled back and grasped her face in his hands. “Because we’ve already proven time and time again, how well we work with each other.”
Cain wasn’t one to snuggle. Once satisfied, she’d returned to her desk to work. Zarek, wrapping the sheet around his waist, ambled over and planted a few kisses on her neck. “What are you working on?”
She accepted the gestures but continued to work. “Going over the shore leave plans.”
Zarek straightened up. “Shore leave? For Pegasus?”
Cain smiled. “In the beginning. We have to test the soil, plants and water of course, but assuming all those check out, I think the whole fleet deserves some time on a real planet.”
Zarek sat on her desk, next to her. “That’s amazing, but isn’t it risky? If the Cylons show up…” He knew she understood his concern, so he stopped.“
“If the Cylons show up, we’ll deal with them.”
He grinned. “You’re going to be a very popular woman in the fleet.”
Cain feigned astonishment. “Really?”
There had been no sign of the Galactica for days. Lee was in official mourning and a service
had been held. Dobson had returned with
a statement of massive debris and no life signs anywhere. It seems the Galactica had exploded.
She heard the gurgle of a nearby stream and made her way toward it. There was a fairly steep embankment, so she left her sacks on the edge and climbed down. She stumbled a few times, but managed to right herself. She walked over to the water’s edge and dropped to her knees. It was clear and cold. She washed her hands and used a bandana on her hair to wash her face. She tugged off the camouflage jacket she wore. She hated the jacket, but it was far better then the stiff blue uniform.
“Nice to feel human again, huh? Those uniforms don’t look good on you.”
“I’m surprised you didn’t hear me. I saw the bags on top and thought you’d fallen. Turns out you were just enthralled by water.”
She smiled. “Yep, considering all we’ve been through, this is by far the worst punishment.”
He stepped closer. “Being away from me?”
She looked shyly away. “Oh yeah, that.”
Lee stepped even closer. “You’re wet.”
“Not very.” She whispered.
He leaned in. “You’re shivering.”
“No. I’m fine.” She was trembling, but it wasn’t the wet clothes. It was Lee’s nearness.
“We need to get you out of those wet clothes and dry them off.”
She looked back at him. “You’d like that, wouldn’t you? You’ll do anything to get me naked.”
He nodded and his eyes grew dark with desire.
“Right here and now?”
He nodded again, running his hands slowly up and down her arms.
“It’s not very comfortable.” She looked around over his shoulder.
“I dunno. There’s some nice soft grass near the edge…” He lifted her face with a finger and planted a small kiss on her lower lip.
“Did you plan this?” She closed her eyes, trying to fight the urge.
“Nope, but I think someone did. I was supposed to be shuttling a water tanker, but my landing gear burned out. It’ll be a few hours before it’s fixed.”
“Damn shoddy maintenance.” She leaned in and kissed him back.
“So, I decided I should find you and a private spot. What do you think?” He gently pulled her backward, toward the grassy area at the base of the small ridge. “It’ll be nice and private.”
She allowed herself to be pulled along and when he dropped to the grass and pulled her down beside him, she settled into the crook of his arm. She sighed. “This is nice.”
He half snorted. “This wasn’t quite what I had in mind.”
“It’s the best you’re getting.”
He laughed. “Did I mention how much I love this?”
She smiled and kissed him quickly. “How are you?”
They cuddled for some time, discussing everything that had happened and all the potential scenarios. Sometimes they were filled with hope and others they comforted each other.
“I wish…”
“You wish what?” Lee asked, pulling her closer.
She tried to smile the statement away. “Nothing.”
Lee lowered his hand and began to tickle her side. “What?” She squirmed, but he held tighter. “Tell me.”
He stopped. She drew in a slow breath. “Now that we have a planet, I just wish…” She knew he’d insist, so she finished. “I wish we could have buried baby Zack here.”
Lee had thought the same thing when he first landed. It seemed a much more fitting place for his son then Galactica’s morgue. “I know.” They cuddled in silence.
The sun began to set and Lee pulled himself up. “We better get back.”
They entered the building and found it dark. “That’s odd.”
Suddenly a light flared. “Looking for this?”
Squinting at the sudden brightness,
Lee stared straight into the face of Aaron Doral. He knew instantly there was bigger trouble than Cain.
“Don’t make any dumb moves or people will die sooner.”
“What are you doing here, Doral?” Lee knew it sounded pathetic.
Doral laughed. It had sounded pathetic. “Now, now Captain, you didn’t think we’d let this opportunity pass us by, did you? Admiral Cain dumps half her military on the planet and leaves her fleet defenseless? We’re not stupid. You knew that right?”
Lee stood stronger. “If you’re so confident, why are we still breathing? This is your big chance.”
Doral nodded. “True, but we’re not quite ready. Our basestar will be here in less then a day. Then we won’t have to continue this game of hide and seek any longer.”
Lee stepped forward, testing his opponent. “So we still have a day to get out of here. Doesn’t sound so simple to me.” Doral hadn’t moved, so Lee took another step forward.
Doral smiled. “I hadn’t intended to reveal our presence quite so early, but your arrival changed our plans.”
“How’s that?”
Doral leered at
Doral smiled. “Perhaps, but we couldn’t take that risk, could we?”
Lee grimaced at
Doral smiled and nodded using the public relations skills he was known for. “You won’t have the chance to tell anyone we’re here.”
Lee laughed. “It
makes no sense. All I have to do is jump
you.
Doral looked him square in the eye. “I will, because no matter what, you won’t
risk the dear doctor’s life.” As he
finished his last word, a mechanical clang sounded behind the humans and a
sharp set of pincers grabbed
“Let her go!” Lee
growled.
Doral laughed sadistically. “The centurion would have no problem holding her like that. It’s a benefit of being, what is it you call us, a toaster?” He waited for his words to sink in. “No, Captain. We’re going to stay here tonight, until your ship is repaired. No one will disturb the lovebirds. Then we’re going to fly back to the Pegasus with you.”
“I won’t let that happen.” Lee stated flatly.
“Do your best, Captain. You’ll watch her blood flow as she dies. It will be the last thing you ever see.”
Without spoken communication, the centurion moved and
dragged
From another corner of the room, a second centurion
appeared. Doral nodded to them both and
slipped out of the tent. For a long
time,
Lee watched the centurions and chuckled softly. “Just what do you have in mind? If they kill us both, we achieve nothing.”
Lee laughed again.
His attitude angered
He nodded and struggled to wipe the smile off his face. He stared at her for a moment and then slowly
shook his head. “
“What?” She couldn’t believe he was thinking about her at a time like this.
“You doubt your own abilities and inner strength and here
you are prepared to take on Cylons.” He
glanced to their guards. They hadn’t
changed positions, so he leaned in and kissed
She accepted his soothing kiss and began to chuckle herself. “I ask again, why do you put up with me?”
He smiled, still leaning in close enough for a kiss. “You keep me on my toes!” He kissed her again.
BSG…BSG…BSG
Kara Thrace was glad she’d been fortunate enough to draw CAP. She knew Lee was forced to shuttle supplies back and forth. It annoyed her that Cain would so obviously misuse his talents, just for her own entertainment. Kara Thrace was known for her unorthodox methods and moods. Today was no exception. She had a bad feeling in her gut. Something was wrong. Frak! Everything was wrong. What she wouldn’t give to have Galactica hop out of space and blast Cain to hell.
She was in no hurry to end her shift. She opted for a final run around the fleet and stretched it as far out as she could. If anyone asked, she was making a perimeter check. Who could argue with that? Cain might find a way if she knew.
She was about to turn back when a quick blip sounded on her dradis. It was so fast; she might have missed it. She redirected her ship in the direction and plunged ahead. Deep down, she knew it was bad news. She prayed to the lords that she wasn’t about to plunge into a Cylon patrol or worse, fleet. What the hell, today was as good a day as any to die.
Just before leaving the fleet’s dradis range, she radioed in. “Starbuck Pegasus. I got a minor blip on my scanner. I’m going out of range to check it out. Standby. Starbuck out.”
She nudged her viper forward and in a few short minutes, gasped.
BSG…BSG…BSG
“Admiral Cain, I understand the morale issues in the fleet, perhaps better then you, however, I can’t believe that this massive of a landing is in its best interest.” Roslin shared the same bad feelings going through many people in the fleet.
“Madame President, We’ve had no sign of the Cylons for weeks now. We need these supplies and the people need sunshine on their faces. We don’t know when we will come across such a possibility again. We need to take what we can, now.”
“That may be true, but there is no way we can defend the fleet long enough to recall the people from the planet should the Cylons jump into the middle of the fleet.”
Cain narrowed her eyes. “You sound like Adama.”
Roslin met the glare head on and returned with one of her own. “Thank you! I learned a lot from the Commander. He would have never stayed here this long.”
The returned reference to the great Bill Adama soured Cain’s mood like no other. “He’s dead and I’m in charge. That means we do things my way.” She tried to smile. “No worries, President Roslin. If the Cylons show up, we will fight as long as we dare and jump with whomever is able to make it back aboard.”
Roslin’s eyes flared with anger. “You would sacrifice all those people on the plant?”
Cain replied, matter of fact. “For the good of the fleet, of course.”
Roslin was beyond words for the first time in her political career. Cain took advantage of the situation. “I’ll order your shuttle be prepared for the return to Colonial One. Unless of course, you’d like to visit the planet.”
“Thank you, no. I wouldn’t want to risk being left behind to fend for myself on an alien planet against the Cylons.”
Cain smiled. “So, is that how you will answer those people in the fleet that want to remain here? They’ve even suggested calling it new Kobol.”
“Anyone who stays here isn’t safe.” Roslin insisted. “You aren’t considering letting anyone stay?”
Cain smiled. “I’m not going to force anyone to do anything.”
President Roslin took her time moving through Pegasus’s
empty causeways. She was hoping to run
into either Lee or
BSG…BSG…BSG
She groaned. “When did you become so… so sex starved?” She felt his cheek move and knew he was smiling.
“The end of the world does it to you. All I can think of is you, cuddled up in my arms at night, stealing the covers and pushing me off the bed.”
“I do no such thing!” She exclaimed indignantly and a bit louder than she’d hoped.
He chuckled. “You do too, but I missed that for so long. There is nothing I love more in the world then waking up and feeling your warm body pressed into mine.”
She felt instantly warmer and loved. “You like it even more if I’m naked, I bet.”
Lee sighed overtly. “I will admit to enjoying your body.”
“And all the things I can do with you?”
“And to me!” He lifted his head and shook it. “I can’t believe we’re having this conversation.”
“Me, either.” She paused. “I’ve really mucked things up for us, Lee. I’m sorry.”
He hugged her. “No. None of this is your fault.”
She pulled back and stared at him in the dim light. “Have you been paying attention?”
He smiled and captured her chin. After a light kiss, he replied. “I’m paying attention. And neither of us wanted any of this. All I need to know is that it doesn’t matter and that we can go on from here and build the future we always dreamed of.”
“I do.”
“Then I want nothing more then to build a future that is as close to what we dreamed of as possible.”
“You don’t think we can have what we dreamed of?”
She looked at him confused. “Well, our house is gone. My career at the hospital is gone and the airport is probably gone too. We’re on two different ships and you are still and always will now be in the military. We’ll have to make a few changes.”
“Hmm.” He thought about her words. “I hadn’t thought about it that way.”
“You had a different dream?” She was starting to worry.
“No. I just thought more of the dream as having you by my side for the rest of my life.”
She slugged him on the thigh. “Damn you!”
“Hey! What was that for?” He demanded, although he already knew what she was going to say.
“Why do you always have the perfect thing to say?”
He laughed. “I know. You love me!”
BSG…BSG…BSG
Commander Fisk dreaded delivering his report. Admiral Cain was not going to like the coincidences that had recently occurred. “Admiral Cain, Sir. SitRep as ordered.”
“Go ahead, Commander.” Cain replied, uninterested.
“Nothing new to report. Supply deliveries on schedule. We did lose one shuttle today due to landing gear malfunction. It’s stuck on the planet.”
“Really? How long?” She asked, still not showing much interest. The reports on her desk seemed more dynamic.
“The shuttle is ready to fly, but her pilot is missing.”
This caught Cain’s interest. “Missing? On the planet? Who is it?”
Fisk cleared his throat. “Adama.”
“What? Is Doctor Davis accounted for? Has she returned to Pegasus today?” Cain was angry.
“No, Sir. Doctor Davis is also missing.”
Cain smiled, but it wasn’t friendly and warm. “So, our lovebirds are AWOL together?”
Fisk tried to defend them. “We don’t know anything yet. They were seen coming back into the main camp, but no one has seen them since.”
“So they were seen together? Despite my orders?” Cain said to the air.
“You ordered them not to see each other?” Fisk dared the question out loud.
Cain quickly realized her mistake, but opted to ignore it. “Yes. I did, to each in private. Have they been together on the ship?”
“No, not that I’m aware of. They haven’t really had any time.” Fisk grew more worried about his Admiral daily. She’d never been easy to serve under, but lately her behavior was more and more erratic.
“Have the surface crews search for them. Is there anything else?” She tried to go back to her disinterested state.
“Lieutenant
“WHAT?” Cain rose to her feet and stepped directly in front of him. “WHY AM I JUST HEARING THIS NOW?” She checked her watch. “She would have been due back a few hours ago.”
Fisk kept his calm. “She reported a scan glitch and went out of dradis range to check it out. She hasn’t reported back since.”
Cain calmed a bit. “She couldn’t have slipped back through to the planet?”
“Not without detection.”
“So, it seems she’s run into something.” Cain processed her thoughts.
“We should begin recall of all personnel. It would seem she’s run into Cylons.”
“If that were true, they’d be on us already.” Cain’s face was hard.
“Then what else could account…” Fisk read the Admiral and opted for a new approach. “I was about to send a raptor after her. She may have suffered a breakdown.”
Cain smiled. “Negative. We can’t risk a ship out so far if it was Cylons.”
Fisk was confused. “So, I should recall our people.”
Cain glared at him. “I already told you no. Dismissed, Commander.”
Fisk didn’t dare argue. He saluted and left.
Cain was left alone in her office. She smiled at the challenge presented her. No matter what Fisk believed, she knew the three were up to something. She couldn’t wait for them to make their move. She’d be ready.
Doral returned just before dawn. He issued silent orders and the two
centurions moved back. He grabbed
Lee nudged her and Doral glared. “Doctor, this is no time for you to grow balls. Move!”
They made it to the shuttle with no delays. Lee called out to the maintence manager that he was lifting off. The manager called back. “About time! Cain’s had half the fleet looking for you!”
Lee grinned. He knew
that would help them. Cain would swoop
down on he and
Doral took the co-pilot’s seat and indicated that
Lee joined her. “Leave her here. You have me.”
Doral laughed. “Captain, why do you continue to believe I’m a fool? If I don’t have her, you’ll simply fly us into a mountain side.”
“I could do that anyway.” Lee replied coldly. “Don’t touch her!”
Doral pulled
Exhibiting Cylon strength, Doral grabbed her wrist and yanked her so hard; she fell into his lap. He looked at Lee and ordered him to take off. Lee did as ordered. Doral wrapped a tight arm around her waist. “Settle down. It’s not like you’re my type.”
“What? Not enough circuits and silicone for you?”
Lee exited the atmosphere and flew for Pegasus. He made contact and was ordered to deliver his load and report immediately to CIC. Doral shook his head and Lee knew what he wanted. “Ah, Pegasus. I’m showing pump problems now. I’ll need to dock and have maintenance check it out before I can dump my load.
Cain, herself, replied. “Captain Adama. Dock your shuttle and report to me IMMEDIATELY! Is that understood?”
Lee groaned for Doral’s sake. “Understood, Sir.”
Lee settled the ship at a docking hatch flawlessly. Doral pushed
There were so many visitors regularly on Pegasus and there
were so few crew working right now that no one
questioned Doral’s appearance with Lee and
Doral smiled. “Yes. Lead the way.”
Lee didn’t move. “Remove that thing from her, now!”
Doral laughed. “You think you’re in a position to give orders now, Captain?”
“Let her go. You’re here. You don’t need her anymore.”
Doral actually considered his words. He really couldn’t risk the explosion on the
ship. “Alright. I’ll remove the device, but no dumb
moves. I can still kill her in a
second.” He leaned over and removed the
devise from
Lee moved quickly through the halls. He was deliberately waiting until they got to Cain’s office before making a move. He needed her to see this for herself or they’d have even bigger problems and she’d never believe they were under imminent threat of attack.
BSG…BSG…BSG
Kara Thrace watched Lee fly the shuttle back to Pegasus. She saw three bodies wedged into the cockpit and flew close enough to get a better view, but not close enough to give herself away. She’d flown like this all night. The Blackbird was Galactica’s eye on the fleet.
She’d screamed with joy when the Galactica came into view
the previous day. She’d been welcomed home
and gone directly to the Commander.
After a long, tight hug, she updated him on fleet happenings. Nothing had really surprised him. Galactica had jumped almost immediately after
the rest of the fleet, but had maintained a position just outside the normal
fleet parameters. Adama had no idea what
he was going to do next, but he knew something would happen to show him the
path. Starbuck’s arrival had been that
event.
Tigh and Starbuck sat in his office as they discussed
their next move. “I think it’s time we
make our presence known to the fleet.
Not only can we prove she tried to lose us, but she’s put the fleet at
serious risk.” Adama was confident.
Kara agreed, but questioned him nonetheless. “What about Lee and
“What about them?”
Tigh asked.
“Don’t you think we ought to get them off that ship
before we jump back in? Or at least warn
them?” Starbuck couldn’t believe she was
worried about the Doctor. She knew Lee
could handle himself. This was about the
doctor.
“How can we get a message to him?” Tigh wondered aloud.
“The Blackbird.” Adama
offered.
Kara nodded in agreement.
“Get close enough to signal him to go to a different radio frequency and
let him in on the plan.”
“It will have to be quick. They might detect the off channel
communication.” Tigh commented, feeling
ever the nay-sayer.
Kara laughed. “Not
their comm. Officer. Remember the
switched messages?”
“That wasn’t necessarily a mistake. We don’t know who we can trust over
there.” Tigh added again.
“Doesn’t matter, we have to risk it.” Adama stated flatly.
So, Kara slipped upside and attached herself to a soft seal portal on Pegasus. It wasn’t going to be easy to sneak onto the ship. The Blackbird wasn’t intended to board like this. In order for this to work, she was going to have to risk a moment of space. She glanced down at her flightsuit. ‘Don’t fail me now!’
It worked. She slipped down the hallway and quickly managed to catch up to the trio she was following. She stayed a short way behind them, waiting for the right moment. The threesome entered Cain’s office without closing the door behind them. Kara waited outside, listening.
“WHO IS THIS?” Cain shouted the moment they entered. She was silent a moment and then added. “Isn’t this man one of the Cylons Galactica apprehended?”
Lee started to explain, but Doral cut him off. “I am indeed. It’s a pleasure to meet you, Admiral Cain. I’ve long wanted to step foot on the decks of the Pegasus. You’ve managed to be a pain in our side for some time now.”
Cain ignored the Cylon. “Captain Adama, what is the meaning of this?”
Lee answered angrily, stunned at her reaction. “Doral is a member of an advance team. We need to recall all people. A basestar is on its way here as we speak.”
Doral laughed. “Two as a matter of fact. We want the final battle to leave little doubt of a victor.”
They all stared at him and Cain added. “You expect me to believe this story? Why would you waltz him onto this ship, Captain? Why did you wait until now to contact us about this supposed threat?”
Doral was smiling in amusement. He was truly enjoying himself. It was just the distraction Lee needed. He lunged at Doral and grabbed him around the
neck.
The racket created by the skirmish inspired Kara to action. She spun around the corner, gun drawn. She watched for the perfect moment and as soon as Lee spun behind Doral, she fired.
The bullet caught him center chest and he fell to his knees with a stunned expression on his face.
The humans in the room didn’t move, absorbing recent events. No one spoke. A few seconds later, security arrived and Fisk followed.
“What’s happened here?” He demanded to know, seeing the corpse at Lee’s feet.
Cain recovered. “Take these three into custody. I want them in the brig in separate cells.”
All three responded at the same time. “WHAT?”
As security stepped forward, Lee prepared to fight and Kara
leveled her weapon. It was
Cain advanced on
“WHAT?” Cain shouted, no control over her emotions at all. “You think you can remove me? YOU? Better men than you have tried, little girl!”
Fisk studied the whole situation. The security men were momentarily stunned. Suddenly the warning siren’s blared and a distended voice came through the speakers. “Dradis contact. Two Cylon Basestars, ten minutes out. Admiral Cain and Commander Fisk to the CIC.”
Fisk wasted no time. He looked at the two security men. “Escort Admiral Cain to the brig and hold her there. Under no circumstances are you to release her and no one is to see her either!” The men hesitated a moment, but then acted.
Cain glared at Fisk. “Not you, too? You’ve fallen into their little game? You’ll pay for this Fisk! You’ll pay!” Security dragged the Admiral out of her office. She kicked and screamed the whole way. There was no honor left in her.
Fisk eyed the two pilots.
“Go get ready to fly.” He turned
to
She nodded.
“Get to Life Station. You may be very busy very soon.”
Everyone ran to stations.
BSG…BSG…BSG
Galactica noted the arrival of the basestars as soon as the Pegasus did and she immediately set course to intercept.
Adama accepted the news in stride. He hadn’t expected anything to go easily. “Prepare all available vipers and prep our nukes. Get us into this battle as quickly as possible. Radio Pegasus of our ability to assist!”
The word ‘nukes’ sent a chill through the room. In all their battles thus far, they hadn’t needed to prepare the nukes for launch from the ship.
Fisk’s voice greeted Adama. “I’m not worried about how you got here, just glad to see you.”
Adama smiled for two reasons: the first being the lack of Cain’s voice and the second being the rational voice of Commander Fisk. Fisk continued to report. “Our initial fighters are already engaging raiders. We count 200 so far. We’re gonna take damage. They jumped in almost on top of us.”
An explosion rocked the broadcast and Fisk’s voice
disappeared. Adama turned to
A few moments later, Fisk’s voice again emerged through the sounds of battle. “A raider got through. Galactica, they aren’t splitting up. It’s as if they don’t care that you’re here.”
BSG…BSG…BSG
Cain gave up her struggle after a few minutes. She allowed herself to be placed in a cell and then stood calmly on the other side of the bars, glaring at the guards beyond. She displayed a sickening smile. Within seconds, four additional security guards entered, guns drawn. They said nothing. They pointed at the brig guards and fired. After releasing the Admiral, they waited for instructions. “Follow me!”
BSG…BSG…BSG
Fisk saw the situation clearly. Their pilots were going to be wiped out and then the two basestars would turn on the Pegasus. He didn’t like his plan, but he saw no other. He picked up the phone and input the number for a ship wide announcement. “Attention all hands! Abandon Ship! I repeat. Abandon Ship. This is not a drill. There are two Cylon basestars bearing down on us.” He paused a moment. “I can see only one possible way to save the fleet and destroy the enemy. May the lords bless you and keep you safe. You’re a fine crew and you deserve better than this! So say we all!”
BSG…BSG…BSG
Gina was waiting at the bars. A lone tear rolled down her cheek as
“Well, well, Doctor Davis and Gina. Leave it to the good doctor to save a pathetic Cylon.” Cain turned to her security guards. “Bring them with us. We have to take back our ship.”
The guards leveled their guns at the two ‘women’ and they
complied.
They arrived on CIC and Fisk turned to see who was coming back. He’d sent the entire command crew to escape pods. He could handle this navigation himself. “Commander?” Cain intoned. “What are you doing? You call me insane?”
Fisk was shocked. “Admiral, this is the only way to quickly take out those ships.”
“You intend to ram them with MY ship?” She screamed.
“Yes, sir. I suggest you take the others and evacuate the ship.” He went back to his work, praying to the lords she would do what he asked, just this once.
Cain looked around the room. Over her shoulder, she told the security guards to shackle the doctor and the Cylon to the deck. They were going nowhere.
The men did as they were ordered, but hesitated. One dared question the Admiral. She stormed to him, took his gun and fired. He fell to the floor. She looked at the remaining, bewildered men, her eyes blazing with insanity. “ANY ONE ELSE WANT TO DEFY ME? If you’re such cowards, GO! RUN!” She fired at their feet and they did as they were ordered and ran for the decks.
“Admiral Cain! Please
get off the ship. We are on an automatic
course for the basestars. Save yourself
and the others.” Fisk indicated
“You BASTARD! How dare you pretend like you care?” She fired again and again.
Fisk drew his own weapon and pointed it at Admiral Cain. “Don’t make me do this!”
She laughed. “You couldn’t if you tried. You’re pathetic. Just like the rest of them.”
Gina watched the whole scene calmly. She couldn’t help but wonder why the human fought so hard, when they could sink to such lows.
BSG…BSG…BSG
Lee and Kara split up. They both agreed she had to save the Blackbird. Lee scrambled to his viper. Collins, the CAG, had already taken off. The battle raging outside was broadcast over the speakers. Lee scanned the deck but couldn’t find an available bird. He grabbed the first deckhand and shouted for a ship. “It’s not prepped.” The terrified man replied.
“GET TO WORK ON IT!” Lee demanded.
The man shook him off. “Didn’t you hear the order? Abandon ship? That doesn’t mean prep your viper.” He suddenly summoned courage, the wrong kind. “If you want a ship prepped, do it yourself!” He pulled himself from Lee’s grasp and ran away.
Lee thought for a moment. He scanned the bay and saw a viper. He wasn’t going to be left out of a battle. As he crossed the deck to move the viper into place in front of a launch tube, three guards ran across the deck toward escape pods. He shouted to them. “Get over here and help me!”
One stopped. “No frakin’ way. We’re getting off this ship. Cain’s gone nuts on CIC. These are the only escape pods left.”
Lee was stunned. “What do you mean Cain’s on CIC?”
The man continued running, but shouted over his shoulder. “We sprang her. She took the Doc and the Cylon to CIC with her.” He said no more.
Lee glanced around again and discovered one more raptor. He checked his weapon and ran for CIC.
BSG…BSG…BSG
Adama could tell exactly what the Pegasus was about to do. They too were listening to the battle chatter. The Pegasus pilots were being wiped out, as expected. Galactica vipers were just reaching the battle zone. He prayed it would help. Ships that didn’t have people on the surface were jumping. Ships that did have people were scrambling to try and get them back, while preparing to jump.
Adama had no idea why the basestars hadn’t moved apart. They had to guess at what Pegasus was planning when they saw her abandoning ship. Defenseless escape pods had to be protected, too. He couldn’t think of an uglier situation. He avoided wondering where Apollo and Starbuck were in all this. He hadn’t heard either of them mentioned on air. “Mr. Gaeta, are we at full speed?”
“Aye, sir. We’re one minute out of the combat zone.”
BSG…BSG…BSG
“Come out and take your punishment like a man, Commander! You’re not fit to wear the uniform, cowering like a child!” Cain weaved around the CIC, firing randomly in the air and into equipment.
“Admiral, for gods sake, leave the ship!” Fisk asked again. He was trying to position himself toward the door. If necessary, he would drag the doctor to safety.
“Why do you keep asking me to leave my ship?” She asked, suddenly calm.
He lifted himself slightly. “Admiral, unless you have another idea, we have to ram those ships. We can detonate nukes at the same time and blow them both to hell. You have to know that.”
Cain was still calm. “But the fleet will be alone.”
Fisk shook his head. “Galactica is coming. They’re on their way.”
Cain slumped to the floor. “Adama’s coming?” She laughed. “We don’t see him offering to use his bucket of bolts do we. No, it’s the Pegasus that’s brave enough for this mission.” She smiled. “See, Commander. I will defeat Adama.”
Fisk saw his chance. “Yes, you can, Admiral. If we leave now, we can rub it in his face. You’ll be the hero!” He played right into her psychosis.
Cain turned on him. “You FOOL! I’m not an idiot!” She pulled the trigger and caught Fisk in the leg. He fell to the deck, clutching his leg and she moved closer. “You’ve betrayed me for the last time.” She directed her weapon at Fisk’s head and prepared to fire.
The shot rang out. Cain stood momentarily. She glanced from Gina to Lee Adama in the doorway and then collapsed. The blood from the direct hit to her chest, spilling onto Fisk’s uniform.
No one moved for a second.
Fisk glanced back and saw Lee his gun aimed his direction. Then he looked to Gina. When he had fallen, his gun had gone in her
direction. She stared at him now gun
also pointed his way. “Help her!” He pointed to
Lee wasted no time.
He ran to
Lee looked at her. “Lead the way.”
She smiled. “The enemy is always in front?”
He nodded and turned back to Commander Fisk. “Gina can help you, sir. Come with us.” He made the statement, but stared at the body of Cain as he waited for the reply.
Fisk stared at Cain as well. “No. She damaged the controls. I need to guide her myself.”
Lee shook his head.
“No.” Fisk looked Lee in the eye. “We had to do it. She hasn’t been right for some time. Tell you’re Dad that. He’ll understand. Take the Doc. Save yourselves and beat these Cylon bastards back to hell, Captain.” The ship rocked as explosions hit the targeted battlestar.
Lee settled
Fisk smiled. “It wasn’t easy for you here, Captain. The honor was mine!”
Lee ran, bouncing
Adama’s demeanor displayed his typical battle tension. He wouldn’t allow his face to betray his inner demons. He was focusing on the battle. It wasn’t going well. The vipers were buying time for the Pegasus to make her move. In addition to the vipers and raiders, there was also the issue of the escape pods flooding the space. They made easy targets for the raiders. The vipers did their best to protect them but at a high cost. The airwaves broadcast explosion after explosion, silencing pilot after pilot. Pegasus’ once strong squadron of pilots was being decimated. Galactica’s fighters were a bit farther out and faring better with fewer raiders with which to contend. A few raiders had made it past the lines of defense and were now zeroing in on Galactica. Her defenses easily fended them off.
Adama was focusing on the battle, but his eyes scanned each
and every blip on the display, wondering and praying that one of them was
filled with Lee and
“Get on them!” Starbuck roared through space at some rooks that allowed two raiders to go after an escape pod. “I taught you better than that!” She growled.
Adama smiled. “Leave it to Starbuck to be in the thick of things.” He knew Tigh was close enough to hear him.
“Just so long as she doesn’t lose the Blackbird! We need that ship.” Tigh dryly replied.
“So, you’re assuming we’re going to survive this fight?” Adama chided.
“Frak! I wish we had a window. When Pegasus takes those two ships out, it’s gonna be one hell of a fireworks show.” Tigh grinned confidently.
Adama grew somber.
“Hell of a high cost.” He looked
over to
“On speaker.” He flipped up the microphone. “Fisk? Sit Rep!” Adama demanded.
Fisk’s voice was shaky as he struggled to control everything. The Cylons knew what he was doing and had targeted the ship. “One minute to impact. The ships have finally started moving off from one another, but it won’t be soon enough.”
“What is your crew’s status?” Adama asked, secretly hoping he knew the answer.
“I’m not sure. The last just left CIC. I don’t know if they’re away yet.” Static garbled his reply.
Adama didn’t want to ask his last question. He knew the answer. He did so more for the benefit of his crew listening. He wanted them to know exactly what the commander was doing. Fisk deserved it. “When will you leave for your escape pod?”
Fisk laughed. “Not going to happen. These Cylons must die. I don’t mind being the one to do it.” On Pegasus, the dying man felt his chest swell with pride. “The fleet is again yours, as it should have been. We shouldn’t have been here. You’ll keep them safe. I know it.”
Tigh mumbled in the background, “so say we all.”
Fisk heard the comment and agreed. “So say we all.” He coughed a few times. Fires had started all over the ship, including CIC. “It’s been an hon…”
The connection was cut. The Galactica crew stood mesmerized by the small lights on the overhead display. They watched as one blip merged with the other two and in a few seconds, all three disappeared.
Adama’s head dropped. “It has been an honor.”
Adama’s voice was course with tightly controlled emotion. “Tell them to blow those frakers to hell. The Pegasus’s loss will not be in vain.”
BSG…BSG…BSG
Lee maneuvered off the deck. As soon as he’d cleared the ship, he applied as much speed as possible. The imminent fireball could easily consume them as well. He needed as much distance as possible. He saw a few vipers close enough to be in danger as well and radioed them to steer clear. They complied and flew off.
From behind him, Gina called out, “Radiological alarms.”
Lee shouted over his shoulder while navigating debris, “Which ship?”
Gina replied. “All three. This is going to be big.”
Lee assumed she knew something about what she was going, so he pressed further. “Can we get far enough away? Do we need to clear this area?”
“I think it would be wise to be as far as possible from the three.”
Lee radioed the vipers the information and increased his
speed. It didn’t matter to him that they
were in the danger zone. A second later
the cabin of the raptor was lit from outside by the enormous explosion. Lee knew better than to look to it. He dropped his head and said a silent
prayer. He risked a glance back over his
shoulder at
Gina saw him. “I’m sure she’ll be fine.”
He nodded. “I know she will.” He had no idea why he went on, but he did. “She used to always wait for me on parts crates when I landed from CAP. For some reason, I was wishing that would happen again.”
Gina smiled. “It will.”
Lee shook his head. “I just don’t get you guys.”
“Cylons? What is there to get?”
Lee laughed. “You’re kidding, right? You annihilate us one day and save our lives the next?”
“We Cylons are as complex as god allows us to be.”
Lee shook his head. “Yeah, whatever. Don’t preach to me about a god that would wish to destroy life.” He was sorry he had ever struck up the conversation.
“What if god made a mistake and wants only to correct it, so he may begin again.”
“And we’re the mistake?”
“Have you looked closely at the human race lately, Captain?”
Lee wasn’t about to answer. He knew she’d have a reply for
anything he said. Instead he focused on
Galactica looming ahead of him. He heard
the order for the vipers to destroy. He
noticed a few stray raiders in Galactica’s
vicinity. Under normal circumstances, he
wouldn’t engage with civilians on board, but they were easy targets and he didn’t
like being left out of a battle. He
realigned the raptor and took them out swiftly.
BSG…BSG…BSG
Tigh saw the fleeting smile as well. “Go down and see him with your own eyes.” He made the offer softly, knowing full well, the Commander would never do it. He’d never leave CIC during battle.
“We’re in the middle of a battle and you think I’m going to leave? I wasn’t shot in the head!” Adama wasn’t happy that his crew seemed to be able to read his innermost thoughts.
Tigh smiled. “We’ve won the battle. It’s over.”
Adama frowned. “Pegasus won the battle. We just get to pick up the pieces.”
“And take charge of the fleet again.” Tigh mused.
“We don’t know that Admiral Cain was on the ship.” Adama added bluntly.
Tigh started to respond, but decided better. He turned to
Adama was about to disagree, but stopped, silently happy to see his son. It was several minutes before Lee showed up.
Lee came into command, quite agitated. “You wanted to see me?” Lee hadn’t wanted to leave
Adama shot him a puzzled look. “It’s nice to see you, Apollo. Care to report on events in recent days?”
Lee launched into a clinical report. “When the Galactica failed to report to the
jump coordinates, I returned to the Pegasus.
We’ve been re-supplying from the planet and most recently we were taken
hostage by the Cylon known as Doral, who informed us of the upcoming attack. When we returned to the Pegasus, Admiral Cain
refused to believe our report. When the
Cylons attacked, Doctor Davis certified Admiral Cain unfit for duty. Fisk determined that sacrificing the Pegasus
was the only hope of defeating the two basestars and ordered an
evacuation. Admiral Cain escaped and
took Doctor Davis and the Cylon, Gina, captive and held them until Lieutenant
Adama noted some serious gaps in Lee’s report, but decided not to pursue them now.
“Doctor Davis is on board?”
“She’s in life station. She was injured.”
Now Adama understood Lee’s attitude. “Seriously?”
“I don’t know.” He added more confidently. “I don’t think so.”
Tigh hated to interrupt, but he had to. “Captain, you came in on a raptor, correct?”
Lee nodded.
“We need you back out there. We’ve got pilots in need of assistance and escape pods to be recovered.”
Lee saluted. “Aye, Sir.” He turned and without further word, left CIC.
Adama didn’t like it. He had a bad feeling about Lee’s disposition. He didn’t have time to consider it further, as the reports were flooding in. There was still work to be done.
BSG…BSG…BSG
Suddenly it occurred to her she was alone. She shot up and forced her eyes open. She immediately regretted it as pain shot through her head. “Lee?” She called out.
A hand swept back the curtain, but it wasn’t the hand she expected. It belonged to Diana. “You’re awake! It’s about time. The major was actually beginning to worry.”
“Are we safe?”
“As we can be. The Pegasus managed to take both ships
out. Now it’s clean up.” Diana checked
“How many injured?”
“It could have been worse. We’re running smoothly. We have enough personnel. You can get those thoughts out of your head. We don’t need you right now.” Diana knew where this conversation was going.
“Lee?”
“He was called to CIC and they reported that he’d been sent out in a raptor on recovery duty.” She added with a smile. “He’s fine.”
“Gina?”
“I’m here. I’m fine.” Gina stepped inside the curtained area. “Captain Adama didn’t leave me.”
“What about Cain?
What happened?”
“She’s dead.”
“How?”
“She was shot. She’s dead. That’s all that matters.” Gina said nothing more and made it clear by the set of her jaw, she would say no more. Diana was summoned away. Gina remained.
“No guards?”
“I don’t think they realize I’m a Cylon. I expect they’ll haul me away soon.” She mused.
“Thank you for saving me.”
“He said the most interesting thing.” Gina continued.
“In the middle of our escape, he was thinking about you. It seems you frequently waited for him to land after his CAPs?”
“Are you so insecure? You really don’t seem it.” Gina was perplexed by the complexity.
Gina nodded. “It seems love does that to humans.”
Gina didn’t reply.
True to form, a few minutes later, security arrived and escorted Gina to
a holding cell.
She climbed out of the bed, pausing just a moment to gain her feet. She found her shoes and without checking out, left Life Station en route to the landing deck. She didn’t know if she’d proved to herself that she could go on without Lee, but she knew she didn’t care. She wasn’t wasting any more time. It seemed Lee loved her as she was, insecurities and all. That was enough for her.
BSG…BSG…BSG
Lee had been working steadily for hours. It helped take his mind off
He’d wanted to leave the military. He didn’t want this life for his new
family. He wanted his wife and children
to feel loved and secure. He wanted them to know they came first in his life,
nothing else. The Cylons had taken that
away from him. He knew that’s why he
kept thinking about
He’d finally been recalled. He was making his final landing
approach. He wondered which he wanted
more, to see
The clamps set and he breathed out as he felt the
raptor lowering. Out the copilots window he saw the Blackbird being settled and
smiled at Kara. He’d smiled at her
tenacity in battle. She’d saved their
lives today. He owed her. He wondered if
The hatch swung down and Lee released his helmet and
stepped down the ramp. The chief met him
and welcomed him home. Lee forced a
smile and nodded his thanks. He drew in
a deep breath and started to scan the deck.
He’d managed about 90 degrees when his eyes stopped. There, sitting on a stack of boxes, was
He walked forward. Stopping in front of her, he said nothing. He held out his hand. She reached out and grasped it. She prepared herself for the traditional tug. He would pull her off the stacks and they’d walk out. She never expected what Lee did next. He let go of her hand and grabbed her upper arms. He pulled her down, but rather then allow her legs to hit the floor and stand, he pulled her into his arms. She folded into his chest, face forward and tilted back. He met her lips in a passionate kiss.
It was the first time Galactica’s
crew had seen their CAG actually kiss his one time fiancée. They burst into spontaneous applause.