|
Post by LucianG on Nov 18, 2006 7:59:48 GMT -6
JustinB Killjoy and I had just exited the O'Club when we bumped into Lieutenant Randrius.
"Hey, mind if I join you guys?" Randrius asked.
"You sure can," Killjoy replied, "grab yourself some food and meet us in our barracks."
As we made our way to the barracks, I had an uneasy feeling we were being followed.
"Killjoy," I whispered, "when we go around the next corner keep on going. I think we are being followed."
Rounding the next corner, I ducked into an adjacent storeroom. I kept the door slightly ajar so I could see when our follower passed. When they had done so, I jumped out and grabbed them.
The person yelled in fright. Before I turned her around I knew who it was. "Rose, what in hades are you doing following us?" Killjoy was there in a micron.
"Well, I heard you and Killjoy talking and I wondered what you were up too. If you were not doing anything, I was gonna drag you away so we can spend some time together. Which leads me too ask, what are you two up too?"
"The Captain and I were going to have a few rounds of Pyramid and smoke a fumarello or two. As you probably know, he is helping me out with a situation. Anyway, you are quite welcome to join us as Randrius should be joining us momentarily." Killjoy said with a smug look.
"Show me the way my dear Captain," Rose said while placing my hand in hers. For a few microns I could see that Killjoy was thinking of asking about Rose and me but didn't out of courteously.
We had just set up the playing table when Randrius arrived. "Sorry I took so long folks, but I saw RaycerX in the O'Club so I thought I should say Hi. I asked him if he would like to join in our game and he said he will think about it. Hi Rose, good to see you."
Sitting down and lighting up a fumarello, I said, "Who's in?"
I dealt the cards and wagered put my wager into the pot. Once everyone's bet was in the fun began. Luckily for me, I won the first game.
"Hey, you're not cheating now are you Captain?" asked Killjoy cheekily.
"Now Killjoy, you don't really think I would cheat do you. So I manage to get a full pyramid on the first hand. It's all luck."
We all laughed. It was good seeing us all sitting down like this. Hopefully in time we can get more involved in a game or two. Killjoy won the next two hands and I won the next after that. Something in Killjoy’s face told me we needed to talk. * * * “Killjoy, will you come outside with me for a centon? Hey guys,” turning to Rose and Randrius, “will you excuse us.”
Outside I turned to Killjoy and asked, “What’s wrong mate,”
“I guess seeing you with Rose, has made me think about what I have done to Major Brie. I know you are trying to help me, but I still cannot help having the thought of resigning my commission,” he answered.
“Look, at one time or another we do things that we know is wrong. When we feel the urge is too great we act on our feelings. For you it was with Brie reminding you of a long lost love. What you need to do is relax. Like me for instance, at times during the Academy I found it hard. My parents were killed on Caprica and when we went over the destruction of the Colonies one day I needed to relieve some stress. So you want to know what I did. I started to play the odd practical joke here and there. I would pick anyone at random and have fun at their expense. One cadet decided he was the best pilot in the class. So before a Sim class, I found out which sim he had been assigned and placed some mushies inside his Helm. So you could imagine his face when he placed the helm on and got mushie hair.” I said smiling.
Killjoy had a little laugh. “You’re right JustinB. With the stress of the investigation I guess the stress has been getting to me.”
“Tell you what, since everything is quiet lets go and play some jokes on some of the Gold Squadron Members. Anything for a laugh, but lets just excuse ourselves from the card game for a little longer.” I pocked my head through the barracks door, “Looks like we might need a little longer than expected.”
“So what do you have in mind?”
“Well lets just do something very suttle at first, such as swapping contents of lockers. Remember, should we get sprung its every warrior for himself.” * * * Killjoy and I were nearly at the Gold Squadron barracks when I received an important message;
Captain JustinB,
Please have Lieutenant Killjoy stop by my office sometime within the next 2 centars. He can come unaccompanied, (I promise I won't hurt him).
Major Brie.
"Looks like your luck must be changing with Major Brie," I said as I turned towards Killjoy, "she wants you to stop by her office and she promises not to hurt you if you come unaccompanied."
"Okay, I wonder what she wants with me. I guess we can make fun of the Goldies later on then. Seeya later JustinB, I hope," Killjoy said.
With that I had no choice but to see if Randrius and Rose were still playing Pyramid. If not it was time to show Rose a good time. * * * Randrius Randrius shook his head in amazement. He knew he was horrendous at this game, but Rose was absolutely destroying him. He was almost relieved when Justin approached the taqble once more. Justin smiled, "Mind if I spirit this lovely lady away, Randrius?" Randrius barked a laugh, "Please, and quick, she's cleaning me out of everything I own, I'm gonna start having to give her the clothes off my back in a minute." Rose grinned and let Justin lead her out of the room. * * * Brie Something across the room caught Brie’s eye, something on her bookcase. “Frack,” she thought to herself, “I hope it’s not more crawlons.” She walked over to investigate. Immediately she knew that it wasn’t a crawlon, it was a bug of another type. Someone had bugged her office. She had no idea how long it had been there, but with someone trying to look into her file she knew that someone might have heard her secret. She thought for a moment, then wrote something quickly on a piece of paper. Leaving the listening device where it was, she went to look for Skyler.
Luckily Brie found Skyler taking a break on his research into Killjoy’s background. While saying hello she slipped the note into his hand, and then she walked away. Skyler looked around to make sure no one was near, then read the note. “Someone bugged my office, I have no idea when. It’s still in there. We need to do damage control.” After reading the note, Skyler ripped it into pieces and threw it into the incinerator. * * *
|
|
|
Post by LucianG on Nov 18, 2006 8:00:55 GMT -6
Brie Brie had no idea how long her office had been bugged but she had a feeling that someone had heard her conversation with Skyler. A thought struck her. What if Killjoy had been telling the truth? What if he had been poking around her file just because he was curious, and nothing more? Maybe there wasn’t a conspiracy this time, maybe it was a coincidence that someone else had also tried to access her file. She had to consider that possibility.
So who else would be interested in her past? Someone had recently been asking her about her deepest secrets. Someone who had been paranoid about listening devices as well. Someone who talked to her about trust. Brie decided that she needed to look for Lieutenant Hawke. * * * Brie sent a message to Hawke to meet her in her office in 15 centons, and to bring the “electronic device” that he had used the last time that they talked. As she prepared for the meeting, she wondered if Hawke was really behind what was going on. She couldn’t really believe it was Hawke, after all Sheba trusted him and that said something right there.
Picking up a small metal container, Brie placed the bug inside it and locked it in her safe. She figured that since the safe was strong enough to remain undamaged when her office had blown up, it probably would be soundproof as well.
The fifteen centons passed quickly. Brie waited at her door and opened it when she heard footsteps approaching. It was Hawke. Brie put her finger to her lips to signal him to be quiet and he followed her inside. Knowing what was expected of him, Hawke took out the sweeping device and checked the room. No other bugs registered. It wasn’t until Hawke gave her the all’s clear signal that Brie spoke. ”Thanks,” she said. “I found one over in the bookcase. I put it in the safe, I figure I can use it when I want it. I discovered it right before Skyler and I had a rather interesting conversation. I fed whoever was listening a load of felgercarb.” Hawke just stood there, listening. Brie already knew that she wouldn’t be able to read him, he was just too darn good at keeping things inside. “Listen, I wanted to apologize for the last time that we talked. I was a bit short with you, and I shouldn’t have been. You risked your life for me, and so I’ve decided to share with you what’s in my file.”
Brie sat down, and motioned for Hawke to do the same. “Why now?” he asked.
“I don’t know,” Brie said. “I’ve just thought it over, and I figure that if I don’t tell you then your imagination will probably run wild. It’s not as bad as you most likely think that it is. As I’m sure you’ve figured out, it has to do with when my husband disappeared. A couple of sectons before Turner’s last mission, we discovered that I was pregnant,” Brie lied. She was careful to mimic the feelings and actions that she has used when she had told Skyler the truth. “We didn’t tell anyone, we were planning on hiding it as long as possible, the way I’m told my mother hid it when she was pregnant with me. I didn’t want any special treatment. Then, when Turner disappeared, I decided to drown my sorrows. I’m not talking about just getting drunk, I passed out from alcohol poisoning. I lost the baby. I have to live with that everyday of my life.” To Brie’s surprise, a tear slid down her cheek. “There are some people who think that, since we’re so small in numbers, there’s nothing more special than an expectant mother. So I don’t want people to know that through my negligence I killed my own child. And that’s that. I told you it was a medical condition.”
Brie waited for Hawke to respond. She still had no idea if he was the one who had planted the bug or had been trying to look in her file. She wondered if he had bought her story. * * * Hawke The bug's in a lockbox in the safe,hmm? After I put the bug sweeper in my pocket I start to thumb the self destruct switch for the bug. But wait! If Brie told Skyler about it and it comes up destroyed, it'll surely implicate me. Ooooh, Major, you are good, indeed! I backed my thumb off of it. Ok, if she wants to play it that way, I'll let her. I already knew what was going on. Besides, her file told me her parents died when she was a little girl. I smiled to myself. Good try Major.
"So, that's what all of this is about? You lost a baby due to alcohol poisioning? I realize that you wouldn't want anyone to know about that, but why have that entered into your record & then have it classified? I don't understand that. It has nothing to do with a military file. That would be a personal thing."
I awaited Brie's response. * * * Brie Brie smiled. “I have no personal life, Lieutenant, I never have,” she replied. “I was born on a battlestar, when my parents died I was moved to a military orphan ship. When I was six I was placed in a ‘future leaders’ program. I was 15 when the colonies were destroyed but because I was already on a ship I’ve never even lived on a fracking planet! My entire life has been military. It’s all I’ve ever known.
“As far as the file is concerned, I wasn’t the one who had it classified. As I’m sure you know medical records are available only to medical personnel and sometimes superior officers. If Doc Bkj wanted to dig deep enough she’d see that I had my tonsils out when I was seven but that’s sealed in my file as well. Besides, once you enlist EVERYTHING in your life becomes military, you know that.
“There’s another reason I don’t want people to know about what happened,” Brie continued. “An innocent life was lost because I was stupid. How do you think the rest of Gold Squadron would react if they thought I was careless with human life? I think I’m pretty darn good at what I do, but if I were to lose the next election then I’m moved to the bridge and my career as a pilot is over. And that’s the last thing that I would want.”
In looking at Hawke Brie still couldn’t figure him out. He was just too good at hiding his thoughts, he had obviously had a lot of practice. Despite everything, Brie couldn’t help but like the guy. She just wished that she knew what he was thinking. * * * "Listen," Brie said, "there's a reason I asked you here. I wanted to ask you a favor. Someone has bugged my office and tried to break into my file, so as I'm sure you can imagine I'm a little paranoid at the moment. But you did such a wonderful job at tracking down the people behind the Black Shirt problem, so if you don't mind could you just keep your eyes and ears open for me? Unofficially, of course."
Brie stood up and motioned towards the door. She had just come up with an idea, but she couldn't work on it if Hawke was still in her office. * * * Artus Artus leaned over the bar and poored himself another drink. He slammed it back in one go. After that he filled up the glass again. With all the felgercarb happaning during Marcus and Stadia's wedding Artus had really gotten the feeling that this wasn't the kind of thing for him. All through the ceremony he had been staring at Amy, not really knowing what to do. Or at least he somehow knew what he was going to do. He was going to give her time. She had said that she needed time, so now that was what he was going to give her. Therefore he had promised himself not to look her up, or to talk to her until she came to him. He had made a big enough fool of himself when he had kissed her. At the time he should have realised that it was a mistake. And a dumb one at that. She needed time, so time is what she 'll get. So at first he had tried to get drunk in the O-club. But somehow surrounded by happy people simply wasn't where Artus wanted to be at that point. He was even considering shooting himself in the foot so he would be taken back to Sickbay. At least there things were quiet and he could think. So he quietly slipped away from the party heading for the viper bays. There were a few minor changes that he wanted to make to his viper's fire control systems anyway, and now was a good a time as any. It wasn't like he was really drunk after all.... * * *
|
|
|
Post by LucianG on Nov 18, 2006 8:01:37 GMT -6
Brie Captain JustinB,
Please have Lieutenant Killjoy stop by my office sometime within the next 2 centars. He can come unaccompanied, (I promise I won't hurt him).
Major Brie * * * Brie waited for Killjoy in the one place that she knew no one was listening. Her meeting with Hawke hadn’t helped her figure out whether or not he was behind the security breeches, but at least she knew that her office was bug-free. When Killjoy showed up he looked a little bit nervous and more than a little bit confused. “Please, Lieutenant, take a seat,” Brie said. After Killjoy sat Brie purposely stayed standing, some intimidation might help the situation. “I want you to know that I believe you. I don’t think that you’re part of any conspiracy, I believe it’s a coincidence. But someone else has tried to hack their way into my file, and just between you and me they also bugged my office. It’s been swept and I know it’s clean now, but I want to know who is behind this. And I need your help. If you agree to do this, I will make sure that your little indiscretion will be buried so deep in your file that no one will ever know about it, and those who have heard about it already will just think that it was part of the plan. Who knows, you may even be looked at as a hero to some.”
“And if I don’t agree?” Killjoy asked.
Brie leaned against her desk. “Then I don’t care what Captain JustinB told you, I will make a rock solid case against you that your journey into my file was actually an act of espionage. I will find other things, like the illegal concealed weapon that I’m sure you haven’t turned over to JustinB and that you’re hoping I’ve forgotten about. I will make you seem like the biggest traitor since Baltar and after you’re convicted I will personally escort you to the Prison Barge. So what to you say, Lieutenant? Do you want your life back?” * * * Killjoy Brie leaned against her desk. “Then I don’t care what Captain JustinB told you, I will make a rock solid case against you that your journey into my file was actually an act of espionage. I will find other things, like the illegal concealed weapon that I’m sure you haven’t turned over to JustinB and that you’re hoping I’ve forgotten about. I will make you seem like the biggest traitor since Baltar and after you’re convicted I will personally escort you to the Prison Barge. So what to you say, Lieutenant? Do you want your life back?”
Killjoy leaned back into his chair and considered what the Major has just said. He made eye contact with her and knew she was not bluffing, she would do exactly as she said. Killjoy had made a mistake with her file and now was faced with not only losing his career but his freedom as well. He thought about his plan to resign his commission and leave the fleet. His temper started to stir, and when stood to speak it was obvious that military etiquette was out the airlock.
“Well Major, looks like you have me right where you want me, and I have no choice but to help you. I messed up when I went into your file lady, I know that. But you know I was honest from the start as to why I did it. Now you stand here claming to believe me but making threats like this.”
He draws his small hand laser and throws it across the room, it lands on Brie’s desk and he points at it.
“There’s the Weapon Major, its non-regulation but not illegal, and if you remember correctly, the only reason you know about it at all is because I gave it to you when things got a little hot for us a while back, and your own weapon was smashed! I stood in that corridor with you and faced down those “Black Shirts” Major. I gave you a weapon knowing it could get me in hot water but at least you could defend yourself! Where I come from that’s called loyalty! I also confessed to the breech of the file knowing it may again land me in trouble, but it was the right thing to do, we called that honor back at the Academy!”
He ran his hand though is hair and looked at her. Her expression was not has harsh as it was when he came in, but see look ready to go on the defensive if need be and her had was close to her weapon. He realized he was acting threatening, so he tried to calm his words and put a little distance between them.
“Relax Major, I’m not going to try to hurt you or anything. If you want to ruin my career, go ahead, If you want to send me to the Prison Barge as a traitor go head. I really don’t care anymore. I think you’re the kind of person who would regret sending an innocent man to prison, but if you can live with it so can I.”
He turned to the door and started to walk out but stopped and spoke again without turning around.
“Brie, we worked well together once. I think you’re a great officer and I think if I hadn’t messed up with the files, we could even have been friends. You didn’t have to blackmail me, I would have helped if you anyway. All you had to do was ask.
He took a step but heard Brie’s voice and stopped still facing the open door. * * * Brie “You think I'm blackmailing you?" Brie asked, slightly amused. "That's not my intention at all. All I'm offering you is a way out, a way to save face. As far as the rest is concerned, you DID illegally try to break into confidential files and you HAVE been carrying a weapon illegally, since you were to turn you laser over to JustinB. Either offense is punishable with time on the Prison Barge, so you can't exactly use the word 'innocent.' If you don't want to help me that's fine, I'll find out who is behind this some other way. I just thought that we could solve both of our problems at the same time." She smiled, and held out her hand. "What do you say, Lieutenant? Want to hear my plan that could take care of both our problems?" * * * Killjoy "You think I'm blackmailing you?" Brie asked, slightly amused. "That's not my intention at all. All I'm offering you is a way out, a way to save face. As far as the rest is concerned, you DID illegally try to break into confidential files and you HAVE been carrying a weapon illegally, since you were to turn you laser over to JustinB. Either offense is punishable with time on the Prison Barge, so you can't exactly use the word 'innocent.' If you don't want to help me that's fine, I'll find out who is behind this some other way. I just thought that we could solve both of our problems at the same time." She smiled, and held out her hand. "What do you say, Lieutenant? Want to hear my plan that could take care of both our problems?"
Killjoy turned and looked at the Major’s extended hand. Apparently she’s got the same problem he has with communication at times. The old “its not what you say but how you say it” syndrome. Killjoy’s mind had jumped into gear with out using the clutch again. He was kind of embarrassed at what he said but the way she had presented things too him sure sounded like a “help me or else” kinda thing. He took the Majors hand.
“Alright Major, Looks like I’m in for now. And what you said about building a rock solid case against me if I didn’t help, sure sounded like blackmail too me, so this plan of yours better be real good or I walk. I figure my career is all shot to Hades anyway but they’ll have too shoot me before I go to prison. The Lords only know what you’re going to get me into. Beside a weapons charge is the least of my worries now. I’m not walking around this bird unarmed, for you or anyone else.”
He releases her hand and walks to her desk, retrieves the small laser weapon and returns it to its place in the small of his back under his flight jacket. As he does she starts to protest his actions.
“Lieutenant put that back on the de…….
“Uh Uh Major, the laser is non-negotiable, it stays. With all the spy roomers going around, the ship, someone on this crew may decide to play vigilante when my name comes out. Now do we discus this plan of yours or do you call security?" * * *
|
|
|
Post by LucianG on Nov 18, 2006 8:03:08 GMT -6
Brie Brie explained her plan to Killjoy. It wasn't really all that complicated, but it was also a draw as to whether or not it would work. A lot depended on the person who was trying to break into her file making a mistake. "So, are you officially in?" Brie asked.
"I guess so," Killjoy replied. "What's our first step?"
"I need to run this past Commander Sheba, get her permission," Brie explained. "Then I'll get you another series of codes, some that are more current that the ones you used. In the meantime, do me a favor and see if you can get me a bug sweeper. Maybe Kaylib would know where to find one. If there aren't any questions, I'll go find the Commander." * * * Killjoy "I need to run this past Commander Sheba, get her permission," Brie explained. "Then I'll get you another series of codes, some that are more current that the ones you used. In the meantime, do me a favor and see if you can get me a bug sweeper. Maybe Kaylib would know where to find one. If there aren't any questions, I'll go find the Commander."
Killjoy studied the situation for a moment before he spoke.
“I think its crazy Major, but I get it. As for the bug sweeper, I’m sure Kylib can lay his hands on something, but after the last favor I ask of him, he may not want to get involved unless I tell him you authorized my actions. Guess Ill go tell JustinB before I talk to Kay…..
“No way Killjoy, you can’t tell anyone else if this is going to work! I mean no one!”
Killjoy stopped in his track and turned to face her.
“Well, in that case I do have a question. The Colonel ordered JustinB to keep a close eye on me, and when he’s not around he assigns me a ‘sitter’, how do we get around that? Can’t do what you ask with someone watching every move I make.” * * * Brie “Tell Kaylib,” Brie said while thinking, “that someone is trying to make you take the fall for something that you didn’t do, which is actually the truth when you think about it. It was obvious that he liked you, so I don’t think that will be a problem. As far as JustinB is concerned, I’ll mention him to the Commander. If she buys this idea she’ll call him off.” Brie held out her hand again. “Good luck. We’re going to need it to pull this off.” * * * Charybdis I made sure to follow a path that did not have security cameras which could track my movements throughout the ship. Finally reaching my destination far in the bowels of the lower decks of the ships mid-section, I found the proper corridor and the markings of the room.
I slowly entered the secret code, one which would leave no trace, and entered into the small dark room. It was a systems analysis room, hardly ever occupied, only when technical repair to the computer systems are needed.
I could hardly see but could make out dim features of the room lit by the small lights on the myriad of computer consoles.
As I reached for the light control, someone grabbed me by my tunic and backed me up against the closed door. I felt hands around my neck and suddenly, succulent wet lips began kissing me hard on the mouth!!!
I caught her arms and held them out gently as I could make out her features. I was surprised a bit by her actions. "Are you always this forward with superior officers, sargeant?" I asked.
The sultry female voice ansered back, "Only when they need something..." * * * I hit the light switch to reveal her features. A beautiful woman, raven haired with dark eyes, about 25 yahrens old. I believe she was from the planet Scorpio, born just before the destruction. I, too, had gleanes some information about her.
"Well, Colonel, to what do I owe this little secret meeting?" she raised an eyebrow. My goodness, was she that beautiful? I had never really seen her before, only a few times when some of the computer systems needed tweaking or new codes needed insertion into the system.
"This is to stay between you and me, but one of our Warriors could be in danger."
"Aren't we all in danger, Colonel?" she asked coyly. She was a hard player. Someone who had done this sort of thing many times before.
I decided to forget the little comment and focus on the task at hand. "I need to find out who it is who is hacking into Major Brie's file. It could be life or death. You know the Callisto's system as good or better than anyone else."
"Major Brie? Well, I didn't know that she needed rescuing from the big, handsome Colonel?" she smiled wryly.
"She doesn't need rescuing, Sargeant. We need to know who is doing this for security purposes. All our lives may depend on it." I responded.
"Of course, Colonel. And, please, our ranks are so unimportant in matters like this, isn't that right, Charybdis?" Boy, could she be forward allright. "And, by the way, you can call me Pell."
Sgt. Pell. That was her alright. Bold and brash. Beauty and brains to match. It was a wonder she hadn't moved up higher in the ranks before. I had heard that were some things in her file that no one could see, not even me nor Sheba. Probably had something to do with her past. Rumor was that she operated quite a bit below the table. It was those rumors that I hoped were true right about now. I think I had hit the target.
"Alright, Pell. You know what's going on. Now, can you help me?" I decided to cut right to the chase. If she wanted something out of this, I was prepared to give it to her.
"Well, that all depends Charybdis."
"On what?" I asked.
"On what I get out of it, of course." she responded. I knew it was coming. As she said this she moved ever so close to me and put her arms around my neck again as she had done in the darkness when I first entered. She drew a long painted fingernail down my cheek slowly. It was starting to get a bit warm in that room.
I regained my composure. "OK, what exactly do you want out of it?" I dared to ask.
"Mmmmm," she purred looking up toward the ceiling as if she was contemplating her answer. "Well, as you know Charybdis, my Academy scores were about as high as anyone of the senior officers and I'm still stuck as a lowly sargeant. I think my abilities would be much better suited for a higher rank with more responsibilities." As she stated her last sentence, she punctuated the words inbetween little kisses to my cheek and earlobe. She was bucking for a promotion! And she knew that I was the one who could make that happen as director of personnel aboard the Callisto.
It was highly irregular, but I rationed it out in my mind that if she was working for me under my "orders" then her work would be eligible for promotion consideration. Or so I thought. Of course it was hard to think clearly when a beautiful woman is kissing you!
"Pell, this isn't the regular way to go about getting a promotion." I stammered.
"Oh Charybdis, I know that you have incredible power where that is concerned. And as long as I do my job, what's to stop you from doing yours?"
Brie's life could be at stake. A little promotion to a sargeant would hardly make any difference anyway.
"Alright Pell. If you do the job, I will see what I can do for you. But it's not my final say. You know that goes to the higher ups." I had to have an out afterall, just in case something went wrong.
She sensed it too. Her hold was slipping. And that was a bad thing.
"Well, Charybdis, I guess I need to make sure that I do a good job for you. A real good job at making sure you are well...(kiss)...pleased." With that, she planted her lips onto mine and kissed me hard. I held her firm body tight. I had missed the moments when I had held...AMY!!!!!!
|
|
|
Post by LucianG on Nov 18, 2006 8:04:05 GMT -6
I suddenly pulled back from Pell. The thoughts of Amy had tensed my body up. What about Amy? Where did we stand? Didn't she care anymore? What was going to happen with us? She had every other Warrior after her and we were not on good terms as of late. And here was this voluptuous woman bent on getting her promotion!
I held back Pell's clutching hands. They had moved to my tunic and had begun to unfasten the side of my uniform. "Pell, we can't do this. Think about what you're doing! I'm a superior officer." I tried to say anything that might make a difference. It didn't.
"I know, Charybdis. That's what makes this so much fun!" came the response and she pulled on my tunic to tear it open. In the same movement with her other hand, she reached for her uniform and ripped it open.… * * * With her other hand, she tore open the front of her tunic to reveal herself. I swallowed hard at her beauty.
My hands clutched at her as she tore at my clothes. For a single moment, I had decided that Pell would get her payday. If this was part of the deal, then I would live up to my end of the bargain.
but then...
my comm unit buzzed and started beeping! "Colonel Charybdis, report to the bridge immediately! Colonel Charybdis, report to the bridge immediately!" came the orders.
Pell stopped in her tracks when she heard the summons, so did I. Suddenly I realized that I had to get the frack out of there. There were incredible self-doubts, there were mixed feelings about Amy all torn asunder with the sight of this beauty standing before me ready to offer herself to me. I didn't know what I wanted anymore...
"I have to go, Pell" I said quicky and reattached my tunic, smoothing out the blue cloth for presentation. She knew she was defeated...this time.
"Alright, Charybdis. Looks like we were unlucky this time," she responded,"but I'll call you soon. And we can pick up right where we left off." As she said this, she once again planted a kiss on my lips.
I looked at her. I wanted to say something, anything, but I couldn't. I quickly punched the button for the door and slipped out into the corridor not looking back.
Pell composed herself and closed up the front of her uniform. She had a very strange smile on her face and she turned and went to work on one of the computer terminals.… * * * holodoc Holodoc had stayed busy with making sure that Capt Kris didn't have to much trouble with her recovery from the radiation posioning shot that she had recieved before the previous mission. She knew that there could of been some adverse effects from the shots given to some of the Warriors and Kris was the only one that had a severe reaction to the shot. A couple of the other Warriors had also had a reaction to the shot, but nothing compaired to what Kris went through with her reaction. Holdoc and Kris had some fun chatting and catching up some while she gave Kris her fianl check up after the treatments in regards to the radiation posioning from the shot.
While Holodoc and Kris were still chatting, even after the physical had been completed, Jarrynn walks over to where they were located there in MedLab and she joins in on the conversation with Holodoc and her twin sister. After awhile longer the three started laughing some. Since it was the end of Holodoc's and Jarrynn's duty shifts, they decided to head on out of MedLab and go to the O'Club for a little while and they dragged Kris with them. Kris wanted to stop by the Black Squadron Barracks first to see if Rose was there by chance and if so they could invite her and make it a good ladies night out so to speak. * * * Lucian Coming out of the jump into the Vossar system, Commander Sheba ordered the Callisto to flank speed heading directly toward the Vossar star. The CQ followed at a slower pace. It would not close to the same distance as the Callisto.
"Are preparations complete with the rocket?" asked Sheba.
"Yes, Commander. The Cylon tag device is in the nose cone, ready for launch, per your command," answered Major Joey.
"Squadron preparedness?" asked Sheba, looking toward Lucian.
"We have Silver Spar on standby, but we are not launching Vipers unless there is trouble, according to your orders," said the Major. "Preliminary first point jump calculations are complete, and we'll be able to triangulate from the second point near the star. Time to missile launch point is eight centars."
"Good," said Sheba. In less than a cycle, we'll be out of this system, will have lost the Cylons, hopefully for good, and will be taking our last detour before we find the fleet. Good work, Majors."
She didn't add hopefully, but everyone within hearing knew that qualifier hung on every word.
* * *
The words "will be taking our last detour before we find the fleet" stung in Lucian's ears. Throughout their almost two yahren excursion away from the fleet, Lucian had thought of little but finding ways of defeating Cylons, killing Cylons, or escaping from Cylons. Captain Stadia's sealing, along with the brush of a single kiss on his cheek had changed that. Now, he knew that there was a chance he would be returning to the fleet...and to Mar-nee'. Pain, like a knife, suddenly stabbed through his chest, as her image filled his mind. His knuckles gripping the rail turned white and his breathing quickened as he thought of her lovely face surrounded by soft brown locks...and the knowledge that he could never be with her.
"Major, you okay?" asked Lieutenant Finky. "You don't look too good at the moment."
"Yes, thank you, Lieutenant," replied Lucian, forcing the thoughts from his mind. "I'm fine. I think I just need to get a drink of water."
As Lucian went over to the water fountain, Finky whispered to Lieutenant Aegina who had just walked up, "From what I just saw, I dare say that drink needs to be a little stronger than that!" * * * It was now a waiting game, and the centars were passing much slower than Lucian would have liked. Half of the Warriors he encountered were asking for permission to launch Viper patrols, but all were denied due to Sheba's orders. She wanted to leave this system without incident, and without having to wait for hot-shot pilots to get back home. Lucian sympathized with the Warriors. What he would give to be in a Viper at the moment! To be able to concentrate on the tasks at hand and lose the thoughts that kept crowding his mind! It was not to be. He kept drifting back to the events of about four yahrens before...
* * *
|
|
|
Post by LucianG on Nov 18, 2006 8:04:58 GMT -6
Lucian After the rescue of the Odyssey 9 survivors, they had been brought to the Galactica. Within a couple of cycles, all but Lucian had been relocated to quarters on the Hippolitus, a converted cargo ship inhabited largely by Capricans. Since he was immediately accepted into the Warrior Corps, Lucian stayed aboard the Galactica for training to augment the considerable training he'd already had on the O-9's old style Viper simulator.
For the next few sectars, Lucian learned to adapt to his circumstances. As the youngest person on a deep-space ship for his entire thirty-six yahrens, he was amazed to find life of all ages on the Galactica. Even better, there were females, including a couple quite sexually liberated females about his own age who had taken fancies to him. While the physical relationships were good, in both cases, there was something missing that caused him to end the respective relationship after only a couple of sectars.
It was during a furlon that he met her. As a survivor of the O-9, he was credited with a significant amount of unused time off. Since, according to Colonel Starbuck, it was "use it or lose it," he had taken a trip to the Rising Star. Just before his shuttle arrived, he'd watched, from the co-pilot's seat, another shuttle launch. When the shuttle touched down on the deck, he saw a woman nearby trying to balance four bags, three of which promptly fell to the deck. The flight crew were helping others nearby and seemed totally oblivious to this poor woman's plight. This raised Lucian's ire somewhat, since he had always been one to jump to help those in need. To his friend the pilot, he said, "Garvett, thanks for the lift. Just leave my bag in the corner. I'll be back to pick it up shortly." As he exited the shuttle, he heard Garvett laughing saying, "Sure, you'll be back shortly!"
Lucian quickly approached the woman, who appeared to be just a few yahrens younger than he. "May I be of assistance?"
She was wearing a long pink dress that appeared a good bit fancier than one would typically wear. Of course, Lucian thought, this is the Rising Star, and people coming here on furlon would naturally wear their fancier clothes here. Since he didn't have anything particularly fancy, it hadn't even crossed his mind until he saw the woman. His cadet's uniform would have to do.
From his initial viewing and even from up close, she appeared to be quite pretty, but when she turned toward him, he saw that her face streaked with dried tears and residue of mascara. "No, that won't be necessary, Cadet," she said resolutely, as she dropped the last one.
"Ma'am, are you okay?" Lucian asked with concern.
"It's none of your concern, but thank you, anyway," she said somewhat curtly as she gathered them up again. "I really don't want to talk about it." She was resolute in her determination, but despite her efforts, one of the bags dropped again. It popped open revealing a flurry of clothes, including undergarments, that spread across the deck. She scurried after them, trying to gather them together. Her tears that had appeared ended were flowing freely again now.
"Please, let me at least help with your bags," Lucian said kindly. "As a Warrior, it is my duty to help our people in need. Right now, you look like you're in need in a big way. By the way, my name is Cadet Lucian."
Stuffing the errant clothes into the bag, she looked up at him. With a just a hint of a smile as she wiped the tears away, she said, "Well, Cadet Lucian, if you put it that way..."
Gathering the bags, which he didn't think were that large or that heavy, he helped her to a turbolift. A cart sat empty by the lift, so Lucian loaded all four bags on the cart, and then said, "Ma'am, if you'll wait here for just a moment. I'll grab my bag, and then escort you to your room."
She nodded silently, so he sprinted back to the shuttle where Garvett held out his little bag with a smile. "Happy furlon, Cadet," he said with a grin. Lucian grabbed the bag with a "thank you" and headed back to the lift. As he approached, he saw the woman wave and say "Thank you, Cadet Lucian," as the lift's door was closing.
"But I didn't catch your name!" he gasped as the door closed. He wasn't sure but he could have sworn he heard her say with a laugh, "No, Cadet, you didn't." * * * Charybdis I left Pell in the dark deserted corridor and I walked all the way straight to the bridge without saying a word to anyone. My mind was racing with thoughts of what had just almost happened with her.
I arrived on the bridge to find out that the Callisto had come out of her jump into the Vossar system. Perhaps now would be the best time to ask Commander Sheba for a favor.
I found the Commander in her ready room and asked for permission to speak.
"Colonel, are you alright?" she asked with a quizzical look on her face. She got up out of her chair and came closer to me.
"Yes, Ma'am. Why do you ask?" I replied.
"Well, most of my senior officers don't come to the bridge with lipstick smeared on their faces," she said as she took a finger and wiped a smudge off of my face. She smiled sheepishly and I'm sure had quite a few questions on her mind as to whose lipstick it was and exactly what I was doing on my break.
I was incredibly embarrassed. How stupid of me!!! I hadn't bothered to check my face. Pell was wearing red lipstick and I didn't even think about it. No wonder I got some strange stares while I was on my way to bridge!
I stammered, "Uh...well, Commander," I wiped off the excess color with a small hankerchief, "I'm sorry. It won't happen again."
"It's OK, Charybdis. What you do on your personal time is up to you. We've come into the Vossar system and we might need everyone available. Hopefully not, but you never know."
"Commander, I was wondering if I could ask a favor of you."
Sheba looked up attentively. I continued, "Well, I was wondering if I might be allowed to shuttle over to the CQ, just to check on things there. Make sure everythings' alright. Especially after the last battle and quick getaway."
Sheba thought pensively for a moment. She knew I had an ulterior motive as well. "You want to visit your sister."
"Yes, Commander. We had such a short time together before she had to transfer over to the CQ before that last jump. With things relatively calm for a few centars, I thought it might be a good time."
Sheba thought. "We only have 8 centars before missile launch. That's about it. I'll give you two centars to get back. I'm sorry it can't be more, Charybdis, but time is essential on this jump."
"Yes, ma'am. I'll be back before you know it." With that, I quickly turned around and checked in with Flt. Spec. Geenie. She confirmed that she had a pilot with shuttle ready for launch. I could leave immediately. Orders were transmitted to the CQ as well.
I was happy. I would get to see Arien again. We hardly had any time to share after we found out the big surprise. Two centars was all I had, but it was better than nothing.… * * *
|
|
|
Post by LucianG on Nov 18, 2006 8:05:46 GMT -6
stargazer Stargazor entered the bridge section . People looked tense, but he din'd know why. It was a long time ago sins i was here, and being on limbo so long, i was out of the loop. Mostly i filled my time by in the simulator and had just broken any record on the sim. bored out of my mind, i started to draw new viper designs. people din'd talk much to me sins i changed, my eyes wore still bleu from the accident on axces gamma and i still had those dreams. Thankfully i had the doc. to talk to and work with here.
********
my mind whent back to the pressent when i saw Major Lucian standing at a rail, he looked tense but i heard from doc. that he was looking for me. No doubt in my mind it was to tell me i never fly an viper again let alone be a warrior. I dind know much about what i did because my whole past was whipe out but, i new i was good at flying a viper. So all i wished for was to fly in them again. I walked up to him and stood in attention and said "Sir, Ens. Stargazor reporting"!
As i said my name people on the bridge turned their head for a moment to me then went back to their duties. * * * Lucian He spent most of his furlon looking for the woman. She'd captivated his mind, but unfortunately, she seemed to have had absolutely no effect on anyone else. No one seemed to have noticed her. He'd done his best to discover her name, but the crew of the Rising Star had evidently been burned by such inquiries before, so they were not being helpful in the least. At each meal, in the casino, and in all the vacation areas, he searched for the mysterious woman in pink, to no avail. No matter how early he arrived, nor how late he stayed, the lovely woman in pink did not make an appearance.
The cycles passed, and his disappointment grew. On the off chance that she was one of the lucky, wealthy individuals who lived aboard the Rising Star, he'd checked public records and found that no one of her description owned any of the suites aboard the Rising Star. He'd spent a while doing a search of wives and known companions, but had again come up with nothing, which disappointed him in a way, but left open the possibility that she was available.
That left mistresses, which depressed him further. Considering the possibility that one of the married men might have set her up in a second room under his wife's nose, Lucian discovered that three of the wealthy men actually owned a second unit, but he soon found that all three lived off the income produced by the unit leases. The relief had briefly encouraged him to keep hoping.
That hope was, however, brief. The furlon passed quicker than he could have imagined, and was soon ending. Checking back into his room late in the afternoon of the last cycle of his furlon, thoroughly disappointed, he found a blinking light that told him he had a message. Checking the monitor on his video, he read that it was from the Galactica and could be picked up from the ship's communication office.
"That's strange," he thought. He was surprised that it was not patched right through to him like the only other message he'd received during his stay on the Rising Star. Garvett might be changing the pickup schedule, but he wouldn't be sending it as a private message, would he? Lucian was annoyed, especially when it took a while to discover the location of the communications office in the crew only area. After showing the message he'd printed to obtain entry to the area, he approached the comm office. Knocking at the open door, the attendent, dressed in the civilian flight suit with her hair pulled up in a bun, turned to Lucian and said, "Good afternoon, Cadet Lucian."
Lucian's heart, pounding loudly, was in his throat. He was staring directly at the woman of his dreams--
"Sir, Ensign Stargazor reporting!"
The brief subconcious memory disappeared instantly. Looking up to see Ensign Stargazor standing before him, Major Lucian adopted a stern countenance. "Ensign, come with me."
A few of those nearby who had looked up briefly only a moment before now made faces at each other indicating their knowledge of Ensign Stargazor's situation, even if he didn't. That ended only a micron later when Lieutenant Finky cracked down on them, saying, "Get back to work, and let the Major do his!"
In his small office, Lucian had a seat and dealt with a paper on his desk, leaving Stargazor standing at attention. If he sweated a little, Lucian felt that appropriate considering the hot water in which Stargazor had immersed himself. When Stargazor started to speak, Lucian cut him off abruptly saying, "Ensign, you are to stand at attention. You are to speak only in response to my questions. Do I make myself clear?"
"Yes, Major." Stargazor did not appear frightened, but neither did he appear at ease, which was just where Lucian wanted him.
Lucian continued, "Ensign, are you aware that you are in serious trouble?"
"Yes, Major."
"Are you aware of the time and effort that it takes to train Colonial Warriors?"
"Yes, Major."
"Considering that, it is my duty to make sure that our Warriors stay flight ready at all times, and that they maintain proper discipline to allow that to be the case. When someone violates rules or orders, it is my duty, for the good of the Corps, to see that proper remedies or punishments are applied as necessary to prevent such incidents from happening again, either by the offender or by others; however, I must under all conditions be as fair as I possibly can. I will make every effort to do so in this case, regardless of whether or not punishment is inflicted. Do you follow what I am saying?"
"I believe so, Sir."
"Yet, according to your file, as borne out by my discussion with Doc, I take it that you don't directly remember why you are here? Is that correct?"
"Yes, Major."
"Okay, Ensign, I've heard it from your lips and I've read it, but pardon me if I'm a little hard of hearing, or understanding, I'm not sure that I believe it. As a matter of record, tell me Ensign, just what do you remember of the situation leading up to your being relieved of duty and placed on virtual house arrest, and why, other than loosing our investment in training a good Viper pilot, that I shouldn't have you pitched out of the Warrior Corps on your rump to set an example for others?"
Lucian waited to hear Stargazor's response. He was hoping it would be a good one that Commander Sheba would actually buy.… * * *
|
|
|
Post by LucianG on Nov 18, 2006 8:06:34 GMT -6
stargazer "Sir, all i remember are bits and peaces of my life"! As for what i feel when seeing them, i don't feel anything. The doc said it could be because of the changes i went true. All i know is people are scared to talk with me. besides you and the doc. no one talks to me. The only image that i can remember is from this lady in my dream, every time i close my eyes i see her. And alway's its the same thing, she warnes me for some kind of danger. Like when the crawlon attacked the doc. I could sense its aproach true her and grabt the thing. Somehow it could not kill me and i killed it instead.
I cant say why i did what i did, but i know i belong amongst the stars. I'm sorry if i did go against orders, from what i heard, i can say only one thing. "Every life counts,we schouldn't leave a warrior behind just because we are in a critical mission"! "if a warrior is in need, i will always help"! I know my fellow warriors dont talk to me, but i'll risk my life to protect them. all i have is my life, dont know if i have a familie or even friends. So all the warriors onboard are in a way, my familie.
I'll take whatever punnishment you give me, just dont take my flight status. I've broken every record on the sim, i'm a good pilot use my talent for you're advantage.
"Sir, i will follow you're command"! "You won't be regretting it"! * * * Lucian "Sir, I will follow your command! You won't be regretting it!"
Considering what Lucian had heard, Stargazor's explanation was as good as any he had anticipated. He looked at the Ensign and then looked at the Sim reports from Lieutenant Resonat. Nat had given him high marks on a number of difficult simulations, including a few where he had indeed set new records. Lucian, who had spent countless hours in Captain Rostammer's old-style simulator on the O-9 knew that simulations were good, but they were still not the real thing. For a grounded pilot, they were, however, as good as things got. Lucian, impressed by Stargazor's dedication on the Sims in recent sectons, sighed as he looked back up at the troubled Ensign. He spoke slowly and forcefully, hoping his words would have the desired effect.
"Ensign Stargazor, I am taking you at your word. Now take me at mine. I am going out on a very, very thin limb for you. I am taking your case to Commander Sheba, who is sometimes even tougher than I am, especially in light of some recent actions by wayward Warriors." I guess that goes with the territory since she's a Commander and I am only a Major, he thought to himself. He continued, "Unfortunately for you, she has not been amused by such actions, and she has been cracking down on those who violate orders. Still, considering your time served on 'house arrest' and your actions during that time, I'm going to make some recommendations to try to get this resolved as soon as possible. She may insist on additional punishment as an example to others, but I will attempt to show the unique nature of your case. If she agrees, I will require a probationary period and some other stipulations that I will explain to you later. If you agree to settle your case on my terms as endorsed or modified by Commander Sheba, you'll be back in a real Viper soon. If, however, you agree and then fail to live up to the terms of the agreement, I promise to have you thrown in the Callisto's brig for the duration of our excursion away from the fleet, and once we return to the fleet, I'll personally escort you to the prison barge and will see to it that you never again step foot on the Callisto...or any other Battlestar. That is assuming, of course, that you don't want to go through a Tribunal that will most likely end any chance you ever have of flying again."
Lucian paused for a moment to let it all sink in. Then, in a calm, quiet voice, he said, "Ensign, you've heard your options. What is your response?" * * * stargazer "Sir, i have no option"! "Let me fly again, i give you my word by the lords of Cobol"! "I will honor and respect every rules you set"! "Sir, if i fail, it will be in battle trying to protect the Callisto and not as a wayward warrior"! * * * Lucian Shortly after sending Ensign Stargazor on his way, Lucian had sent a recommendation to Colonel Charybdis asking for endorsement of the disposition of Ensign Stargazor's case. He'd ordered Stargazor back to limited duty, excluding flight status, and told him to report to Captain JustinB. He'd sent Justin a note to keep Stargazor busy with non-critical duties for the following cycle unit Lucian could get agreement on the case. Also, Lucian instructed Justin to watch Stargazor closely, just in case.
When he was back on duty on the bridge a couple of centars later, Commander Sheba asked Lucian for one last status report before the missile launch. There had been no sign of Cylons in the Vossar system, and the Callisto had succeeded in triangulating the next jump point for departure to the Pangara system, what would hopefully be the last system before the Callisto caught up with the fleet.
Lucian had just finished a short training session with several of the Bridge officers, so he was taking a break for dinner. The O-Club was crowded so he got his meal to go and went to his quarters where he could eat in peace amid his thoughts. When he arrived, he set a classical music piece to low volume, and he sat at his desk, eating without really enjoying, or even really tasting, the food. All cycle, he'd fought memories that flooded his mind, but in the silence, he let his mind drift once more...
* * *
The few centons that followed the discovery of the woman was a blur in his memory. Vaguely, he recalled her saying something about "thanking you personally for your assistance on my return to the Rising Star" and "having dinner with me tonight?"
Somehow, he was able to stammer out a clipped "yes" before she had to respond to an incoming message. She said, "09:00. Meet me at my quarters."
As she waved him away, he suddenly protested, "But I don't even know your name! Or where you live!"
In a repeat of the earlier performance, the door was closing again. This time though, he clearly heard her say, "I'm Mar-nee'. Find me." * * * Brie Leaving her office for the first time since Hawke had declared it clean, Brie went to the bridge. She knew that by leaving her office she was giving up the security of knowing it was bug-free, but she needed to speak with Commander Sheba. She also realized that the bridge was a relatively safe place, it was hard to pick up an electronic transmission because of all of the other equipment. She was able to get Sheba into a corner and explain the plan to her. “And Killjoy agreed to this?” Sheba asked.
“He thinks I’m crazy but he did agree,” Brie said. “He wants to put this whole thing behind him. I just want it all to be over with as well. I’d like to let Skyler know what’s going on, he can help plus he’ll need to be in charge of the squadron for a little while, and let Charybdis know also. Speaking of Charybdis, where is he?”
“He asked for a couple of centars to take care of a personal matter,” Sheba explained. “I’ll fill him in. Listen, I can give you 25 centars for this to work, maybe 50 but no more than that.”
“Thank you, Ma’am,” Brie said. “One more thing, we need to call the babysitters off of Killjoy. He needs to be able to move around freely for this to work.”
“I’ll take care of that,” Sheba said. “Give Killjoy access codes that are a couple of yarhens old, nothing current but something that will work. Just make sure he can’t get too far.”
Brie smiled. “I don’t think he’d try even if I printed my entire file and handed it to him. He’s learned his lesson.”
“Good,” Sheba said. “I’ll contact JustinB immediately.” * * *
|
|
|
Post by LucianG on Nov 18, 2006 8:07:23 GMT -6
Killjoy Killjoy had his little meeting with Kaylib, who managed to produce a very small “Bug” scanner. He was concerned about the size and effectiveness of the tinny device. However, Kaylib assured him it was state-of-the art technology, and would pick up on any lil nasties no matter how well hidden.
Killjoy’s only problem now was to get it to Brie. He couldn’t just walk up and hand her the thing, and not knowing whose company she may be in at the moment, the comm system was out of the question. For all Killjoy knew he was being watched and if JustinB hadn’t been called off yet he would soon be hunting Killjoy down.
“Hey Kaylib, I need one more thing. I’m going down to the launch bay and try to get access to my Viper. Ill come up with some stupid excuse about leaving something in it or something. Once I get inside the cockpit, Ill make a big scene by pretending to pass out again and ‘accidentally’ firing the engines. That should cause a big enough ruckus, to draw every member of security, and half the crew, from that section of the ship. Then you can use your maintenance codes to get this into Brie’s office without being seen.”
Kaylib considered the plan.
“Yea Killjoy, that should work fine. Just be careful!”
“Don’t worry Kaylib, if Brie has done her part then this is all covered. Beside these people are used to me getting into trouble, cant let them down now. Just hide it good. Once you’ve left it in her office, be sure to find her and discretely let her know its there, and ask her what she wants me to do next. Ill check with you here again later today. Understand everything?’
“Think I got it Killjoy, lets go.” * * * Brie Brie returned to her office and was glad to see the bug sweeper on her desk. It was small enough that she could carry it with her. She swept her office one more time, it was still clean. She found an older set of codes, she needed to get them to Killjoy. She couldn't risk talking to him again. Maybe it was time to fill Skyler in on her plan. After all, he was part of it. * * * Brie called Skyler to her office and filled him in on her plan. He was a bit surprised, especially about his part in it, but he had no objections. He also agreed to get the set of security codes to Killjoy, which he left to do. * * * JustinB Sitting down at the desk next to my bed, I pondered the orders I received from Commander Sheba. It seemed that someone must have believed what Killjoy had said. I was to cease having Lieutenant Killjoy escorted around the Callisto by me or any other member of Black Squadron. I had not seen Killjoy since he went off to see Major Brie. Now I get these orders, but I haven't been told of the outcome.
I would have given it more thought if we hadn't just jumped into the Vossar system. I messaged Lieutenant RaycerX and asked him to attend the launch bays and check up on the situation of our vipers. Even though we weren't going to launch any patrols, I erred on the side of caution. I told RaycerX that I would join him in ten centons.
After giving up to trying to guess what was going, I made my way to Major BatGal's Office. I had to report to her about the status change in regard to Killjoy. I hoped that she might have some information that might put my mind at ease. * * * With Major BatGal not being in her office, I made my way to the Beta Launch Bay. The flight crews were doing their regular maintenance on the vipers. I looked over my viper with matriculate care. Looking in all access panels, the ram-scoop even the laser couplings, I gave the impression that if anything was out of place there would be a price to pay. As I climbed into the cockpit, I could feel the tension from my flight crew. After looking inside, I climbed back out and went straight to the flight crew and looked them in the eye.
Taking a deep breath I said, “A very good job," Their eyes were one of relief.
"Thank you sir" they said in unison. I saw Randrius on the far side of the bay. I shouted for him to come over, but over the noise of the maintenance crews he couldn't hear me. As I made my way over to him, I could see that the other viper’s maintenance had been taken care of.
“Lieutenant,” I said as I approached RaycerX, “What do you have for me?” * * * “Lieutenant,” I said as I approached RaycerX, “What do you have for me?”
"Well Sir, all of our vipers are in tip top condition. The tech crews have worked overtime during the jump to have them ready."
"That is good to hear. Make sure you pass my thanks to the head tech. I have to do a few more things back in my office and maybe grab a bite to eat. Consider yourself finished for this cycle and take a break."
I went back over to my viper and climbed in it. Staring down the Launch Tube, I wished that the time would come we that I could be back in flight. Hopping out of my viper I made my way towards the O'Club to grab a meal. Killjoy and his whereabouts began to nag me. Where was he? What is he doing? I would have to make my way to Major Brie and see if she knew everything. * * * stargazor As the Major Lucian ordered Stargazor was now looking for Justin. Limited duty, atleast he was back as a warrior. He new Justin was asked to watch him, but Stargazor wouldn't be bottered by it. As long as he was busy, it was a good way to keep his mind of his personal troubles. * * * JustinB Grabbing a light meal and some juice, I headed back to my desk. I sat down wondering about what lay ahead. Going over my notes referring to Killjoy, I still couldn't figure out what was going on. I still hadn't seen Killjoy anywhere.
"What else can happen?" I said out loud.
Microns later I heard footsteps nearby. * * * Stargazor I walked true the hallway's and figured that i would find Cpt. Justin in his office. So i walked towards it.
(Dont know yet of my promotion to Lt.)
I pushed the call button next to the door of Cpt. Justin. What would be my duties?
Well I figured that everything would be better then not beeing a warrior anymore.
The door opened.… * * *
|
|
|
Post by LucianG on Nov 18, 2006 8:08:17 GMT -6
JustinB "Enter" I said still in a slight daze.
I looked up and who should be standing in front of me, it was Stargazor. "Stargazor, you’re a sight for sore eyes," I said, "What can I do for you?"
"Well Sir, Major Lucian told me to report to you. I am sure he would have sent you a note," Stargazor replied.
Rummaging through the bits of paper I found the note. "Here it is. It seems that you are back on limited duty, which excluding flight status. By the way looking at the updated roster it appears they have promoted you to Lieutenant. But until I receive written verification, you are still an Ensign. You wear the rank until I find out otherwise." Straightening out my paperwork I continued. "What you did back in the Axces system was out line. But the Major is trying to sought it out. What you have to do is to try and earn the trust of your fellow warriors again. Bravery is one thing, disobeying orders are another."
Stargazor was momentarily speechless.
"I will be observing you for a short time. Other than that let me see what task I can assign to you." Thinking for a few microns I came up with a menial task. "Stargazor, for starters I would like you too carry out an audit of all laser pistols that belong to Black Squadron. That includes the ones in the Beta Landing Bay." * * * Stargazor Stargazor checkt all the laser pistols he could find of Black squadron and made shore he got all the Serial numbers on his list. He found out that he was enjoying to be back on the job even if it wasn’t flying.
When he wanted to go back to Justin’s office and passed by one of the vipers he noticed something. Thats odd he thinked. He looked at an open panel of the viper and could see that some energy cables wore wrongly attached. He knew that if anyone would try to fly with this viper, would be killed only a few microns out of the launchtube. How could the launchbay engineers miss a mistake this big. He decided not to touch the viper sins he was still on probation , and looked around for a few centons. He found a sheet of paper and wrote on it, “viper engine fallsly aligned, please re align”! Also he dicided to inform Justin about the mistake, he would know what to do. * * * JustinB As I stormed towards the Beta Launch Bay, I went over what Stargazor had said. 'Some energy cables wore wrongly attached.'
If that was so, I had to find out whether someone had made a mistake or if there was something else going on more sinister. The fact that Stargazor didn't try and fix it himself, showed to me that maybe he was starting to be a team player after all.
When I arrived at the viper in question, I asked Stargazor what happened. "Well Sir, I was just about to head back to see you when I passed this viper. I saw that the panel was open and I saw that the energy cables were wrongly attached. That’s when I contacted you."
"Good work Stargazor. You might have just saved someone’s life." Taking a look at it, I noticed it was the viper assigned to Killjoy. I asked for the Duty Head engineer to meet me at the viper. When he came I told him what Stargazor had found. He was stunned and apologised for the error of his men.
I turned to Stargazor and said, "Stargazor, I want you to take an engineering team and inspect every Black Squadron Viper. I will inform Major Lucian, Major BatGal and Major Brie of what we found. If it is something other than an engineering mistake we need to get it sorted out right away. Oh and by the way, I still need that audit complete."
"Yes Captain, I will get it done," replied Stargazor.
I went to the nearest Comm panel and told Major BatGal. After Major Lucian was told, only Major Brie had to be told. I left her a brief message.
Major Brie, Energy cables were wrongly attached on one of Black Squadrons vipers. You might want to have someone check out Gold Squadrons just in case it’s not an engineering problem. Also, can you tell me what is going on and the location of Lieutenant Killjoy?
Captain JustinB
I hoped to get a reply on Killjoy. I then headed back to my office to finish up for the cycle. * * * Stargazor Stargazor now looked over every viper in black squadrons bay with some engineers. Do he dind find any other errors in any vipers, he couldn't keep feeling this erie feeling inside of him. Was this rely an error on the part of an engineer or sabotage. Anyway it had to wait, he still needed to finalize the audit of the laser pistols. The rest of the shift he spent on the laser checks. He went to his bunk to write a full report. As he was writting the report something happend. Suddenly he saw her again, like his eyes took over his mind. And there she was again this lady with her face always in the shadows again she warned him by saying "Be carefull"! Only two words came out her mouth as alway's. Then as sudden as she apeared, she vannished. For a moment Stargazor just sat there. He tought what else could go wrong, he new the lady only apeared if there was grave danger. He stood up and went to a mirror and looked at his face. The white of his eyes was still blue, his thoughts raced through his mind, who was that lady, why is she alway's warning me for danger, or was she even reel. His face turned sad, he turned around and completed the report. If something would happen he'd soon found out what it was. The doc had teached him to stay calm, whenever he saw this lady or guardian angel. She told him, it was a gift from the gods and he had responsibillities with it. Only he felt, diffrent about it, people are afraid of him. They kept a distance, aldo he would never harm any one. He took the report and then went on his way to Justin's office. Passing trough the corridors he passed many people. As they walked by, they at first looked at his face as if he was a freak,when he noticed them they quickly would turn their heads and walk of. Avoiding contact with him. Was he that diffrent then before? Finnaly he arrived at Justin's office and pushed the button. * * * Lucian With the Callisto streaking straight toward the Vossar star and the CQ being left far behind, it was soon apparent that Colonel Charybdis would not be rejoining the Callisto for a few centars longer than originally planned. His shuttle would never catch the speeding battlestar. Therefore, Commander Sheba called Major Lucian to return to the Bridge.
"Major, at the last briefing, all was ready with the missile carrying the Cylon tag device. Is that still the case?" she asked.
Lucian, who had grabbed what he could in the few moments since he had returned to the bridge, said, "Commander, that appears to be the case, but I'm not sure. I'm checking now and will let you know in a few moments."
He could see the disappointment on her face. "Major, in times of crisis, we sometimes do not have those few microns or centons you are requesting to be sure. Immediate yes or no responses without qualification, based on decisions founded in real information, are sometimes required."
Lucian looked at her and replied, "Understood, Commander, but sometimes when those few microns or centons ARE available, rechecking previous good information to verify that it is STILL good information CAN prevent problems that CAN be avoided."
Lucian caught a hint of smile on Sheba's face as she turned to look at a monitor. Turning back toward him a moment later, she said, "True enough, Major, but try to be 'sure' before speaking next time to keep from undermining the authority of your statement."
Properly chastized, Lucian said, "Yes, Commander."
"Now, we're nearing time to get rid of that tag device. I think it would be appropriate if Captain Amy was offered the honors.
"I'll have her contacted immediately, Commander," said Lucian, as he nodded to Lieutenant Finky. Moments later, Finky was on the comm, "Captain Amy, report to the Bridge." * * *
|
|