CHAPTER 24—THE ORBITAL PLATFORM

[LucianG]

Lucian

Sheba looked at the disc in her hand. She felt somewhat relieved that Major Justin had stepped out when he did. The welling in her eyes had been almost uncontrollable when Justin had exited her office to allow her to view the “eyes only” message in solitude. She squeezed tightly for an instant, willing the tears to go away before being shed.

She deposited the disc in the machine, and started the message. After the emblem of the Galactica appeared for a micron, Commander Apollo’s visage filled the screen. “Commander Sheba, I’d tell you it was good to see you again, if I could see you—”

The tears leapt from her eyes and down her cheeks. She wiped furiously, but despite her efforts, they continued. Despite the events of the yahrens….

“—but hopefully, that will be very soon. For now, we have numerous problems of which you must be made aware….”

* * *

Centons later, the disc reviewed and the secret parts wiped, Sheba ordered a senior staff meeting in 15 centons. A few centons later, with her eyes now dry though still somewhat red, she received a call from Major Joey, Joey said, “Commander, Major Lucian sent you a message. Solon and Fallel have the important information you were seeking. They’re on the way here now.”

Could it really be the success she’d been seeking? She hoped. “Have them come to the staff meeting with Major Lucian. I’ll be here in my War Room until the meeting.” In an afterthought, she added, “Oh, and please invite Major Justin to grab a bite to eat and refresh himself before the meeting. Sheba out.”

As she waited for the start of the meeting, she began editing the map of the Pangara system with some of the additional information from the disc.

* * *

Charybdis

I was still quite nervous that no sighting of Cpt. Amy had come forth. No one had seen her and no security camera had spotted her. Launch records confirmed that no viper had gone out with her in it...

Just then, the commlink beeped summoning senior staff for a meeting with Sheba. The search, and my worry about Amy, would have to wait for a few centons.

Before I left, I ordered Lt. Aegina to send out a message to all aboard to find Cpt. Amy...

I turned and left for the War Room.…
* * *
JustinB
After handing over the disc, I left the War Room. I felt Commander Sheba needed to be alone, considering how Commander Apollo reacted when I mentioned her name to him. I left the bridge and made my way to my room. I opened up my locker and pulled out a fresh uniform. I picked up my towel and headed to the turbo wash.

As I soaked myself under the hot water, my thoughts turned to Rose and the others. I wished they were all on the Callisto, but the Galactica was the closest ship due to emergency of the stricken viper. Sending the majority back was the prudent course of action in light of the Cylon threat. I had just stood out of the turbo wash when I received a message from Major Joey, “Major you are to attend the War Room in fifteen centons to attend a meeting with all the senior staff. First make sure you are refreshed and have had something to eat. After drying myself, I put on my uniform, and then holstered my laser pistol.

I headed towards the O’Club to grab a quick snack. When I arrived there, all there was available was a few mushies. I grabbed the mushies and a container of water and made my way up to the bridge. I had just taken the last bite of a mushie when I walked onto the bridge. I thought to myself, once I had the first opportunity to get to the O’Club, I would order a nice meal and a mug of the Callisto’s finest Ale. There was still a few centons before the meeting started, so I decided to wait outside of the War Room. I wondered what Commander Sheba had to say in the upcoming meeting.
* * *
Lucian
Just before the meeting was to begin, Major Lucian looked at Science Officer Solon, who was standing with his back against a bulkhead. “Would you like to have a seat?” asked Lucian, who was about to take a seat.

The elderly man cracked a grin as he touched the gold knob of his cane to his forehead, and said, “Lucian, I’ll remain vertical, thank you.” Lucian suspected the wisecrack that was probably coming, but it was interrupted by Commander Sheba’s opening words. “We have new orders from Commander Apollo, and we’ll begin operations as soon as squadron readiness is restored. Major BatGal, what is the status of the squadrons?”

“Silver Spar is 100% operational and is currently on alert. Most Black Squadron Warriors have returned and Vipers have been or are being serviced. We still have several Gold Squadron Warriors who are either have not returned or who are missing. Most Black and Gold Warriors are in need of rest.”

“Thank you, Major.” Next, she went request the status of the Battlestar with Major Joey and Major CureMode, not so much for her own benefit, but for that of the others present. Other than the longstanding problems, things were about the same as they’d been for some time. Following the reports, she continued, “Now, as far as our orders, Apollo reports that, as we suspected, there is a very major, but well-hidden, Cylon base somewhere in the vicinity of Pangara Major Delta. Our assignment is to find it and destroy it.”

There was a stir among the assembled group as everyone took in the meaning of the task. Lucian was about to speak when a crackled, chuckling sound broke from Solon. “Well, at least part of that should be pretty easy!”

With the exception of Fallel and Lucian, most of the group turned....
Quiet quickly returned, and Commander Sheba asked, "What do you mean?"

Lucian said, “Commander, that is what we were coming to tell you when you called the meeting. We’ve deciphered the remainder of the Cylon data disc, and believe we’ve discovered the location of the base.”

“Believe, sme-lieve!” laughed Solon in near glee as he popped another of his gumdrops in his mouth. “Unless they’ve faked the disc, which I’d doubt, it’s there, it’s there all right. If not, I swear, I’ll eat my hat!” Lucian glanced briefly at Solon’s bald and mottled pate. No doubt, somewhere in Solon’s quarters, there was a candy hat of some sort….

“Please, enlighten us,” she said. As she looked at him, Lucian thought Sheba’s eyes looked a little strange, but he figured that it was the light playing tricks on his own eyes.

“Since it’s his and Fallel’s work, Solon, please…” said Lucian, motioning.

“Largely our work,” he said with a wink at Lucian. “As we already knew,” he said, launching into the tale, “the Cylon baseship chased the Gastonovia for a number of yahrens before both settled in the Frodar system after suffering damage leaving the Pauvwell system. From the disc, some time ago, we discovered that the Cylons accidentally encountered the Gastonovia AFTER completing its original mission: the establishment of a new proto-type manufacturing base. Because the Cylons didn’t have FTL communications technology and relied strictly on FTL courier ships, the location of the base was never effectively conveyed to the Imperious Leader. From Frodar, they sent it the only way they could: by long-range radio signal. Due to distances, other signals, and degradation, we picked up the corrupted signal in space, but never could decipher it. By the time that signal reached the Cylon homeworld, many yahrens after being sent, it was probably so weak that it was never even noticed. Therefore, the operational base was lost to the Cylon Empire.”

“Solon, time is of the essence. Where is the base?” asked Sheba.

“Nothing like Cylons and time to ruin a good story,” groused Solon. “But in this case, the story holds part of the key, so hold your equinii!”

There was a rumbling of chuckles and whispers around the table.
Solon continued his discussion, which was part fact, and part conjecture based on the information the Callisto had gained so far in the Pangara system.

“As with any Cylon base, it had to be well hidden. Placing it in a distant star system, far from the reach of Colonial forces would ordinarily be enough, but the Cylons of the time had some special considerations. One, they wanted to be able to expand their empire in this direction, I suspect, to be able to bring another front against our forces. By starting well away from our space, they’d be able to start from this outpost and then build their empire toward us from a different direction. By the time we eventually encountered them, they’d have their infrastructure in place and be able to take on our forces, probably by complete surprise, effectively starting a second front against us that would not be dependent on regular supply lines from the main part of their empire. Unfortunately for the Cylons in the Pangara system, they appear to have only achieved contact with the homeworld just recently. Their second front never materialized.” Solon, whose voice had begun to crack slightly, suddenly coughed fitfully, interrupting his monologue.

[LucianG]

JustinB
It thought it would be interesting sitting in on the Senior Staff meeting. I found myself a seat and positioned myself in the most uncomfortable posture I could. With all that had happened I was in dire need of some rest and needed to look alert. Being uncomfortable would help me do that.

Once Commander Sheba mentioned a Cylon base somewhere in the vicinity of Pangara Major Delta and our mission was to find it and destroy it, I was wide awake. This caused a stir among the senior officers. Then out of the Blue, Solon spoke out saying it should be easy pretty easy. Solon went on to explain about what he knew. Once he finished I realized that we had a huge task ahead.

The first thing I would have to do once the meeting was finished was to contact Captain Kris and have her place the Flight Deck Crews on double shifts to make sure our vipers were ready for such an encounter. Since my viper only needed to be refueled, we would have an extra crew to help with the others. Turning my attention back to the meeting, I wondered what other information would be revealed.
* * *
Lucian
As he took a sip of the drink someone handed him, Sheba said, “Solon, you said ‘some special considerations.’ There are more in addition to the second front?”

Solon nodded to Fallel, who picked up the story. “Yes, Commander. The records show that the Cylons had concern about someone or something called the Vraska that was to be found in this part of the galaxy. There was no reference in the Cylon database as to who or what the Vraska was, so we conducted a search of Colonial records and turned up nothing either.”

Solon, having by now recovered, bumped his cane on the floor, and picked up from Fallel. “The Vraska are unexplained, but we suspect this may be some race encountered by the Cylons. I suspect that if we ever discover them, we’ll find that they call themselves something totally different than the Cylons did, but this story isn’t about them anyway. The third reason and most important reason for the new manufacturing base was that the Cylons were seeking new resources to exploit, either within or outside their empire. The Cylon ship traveled for many yahrens, visiting many worlds, before finally finding what they sought: a system with all the necessary resources where everything could be self-contained. There may be any number of systems where this might be possible, but here in the Pangara system, they found the combination they were seeking: location, resources, and secrecy. They established a hidden base here—” he moved to the elliptical map displayed on the wall and pointed to the third moon of Pangara Major Delta, the fourth planet from the major Pangaran star—“on this dead moon.”
Several of the Bridge Officers looked at each other sharply as Sheba replied, “Solon, Gold Squadron fought a pretty fierce battle in the vicinity of that moon, but our scans which have been analyzed since their return, show no signs of a base on that rock. Are you sure of your information?”

Solon grinned, “My information is as good as the way the Cylons originally recorded it. Unfortunately, my choice of prepositions is poor. I should have said, ‘IN this moon.
* * *
Brie
Sitting in the Senior Bridge Staff meeting, Brie was feeling a bit uncomfortable. She didn't normally attend these meetings, she had a feeling that she was invited as a courtesy because they had previously asked JustinB. Glancing around the war room Brie couldn’t help but think how happy she was to still be a viper pilot. She suddenly felt very old, several people there were younger than she, and they had spent their time in vipers before moving to the bridge. She also felt a bit useless at the moment, she would much rather be checking on the status of the members of Gold Squadron.

Hearing that the Cylon base was probably inside a moon came as quite a surprise. She had flown past it herself and hadn’t picked up anything that unusual. Granted she hadn’t been looking for a base, they had been checking the area for jump points, but the momentarily strange readings should have been a warning. Thinking back, though, there wasn’t really anything that she could have done differently. She had tried to check it out, only to be discovered by a Cylon patrol. Then when they had the chance, she sent Najinn and Hawke to look for the base.

Hawke. She had managed to find out before the meeting that Najinn had returned, but Hawke was missing. She hoped that he was all right. She didn’t want him to fall into Cylon hands, she wanted to make his life miserable herself, but not as miserable as the Cylons would. She wouldn’t wish that on anybody.
* * *
Hawke
"He's flatlining! Get a crash cart in here!" Doctor Salik says... The medical crew desperately try to save the unknown pilot. After a centar of working on him he's finally stable.

Later...

"Cassie,does anyone know who this person is?" Salik asks. "You know, I think I've seen him before. I just can't remember where." "Who is he?" he asks. "I don't want to say until Commander Apollo comes in and sees him... I don't want to get everyone's hopes up. I'm sure Apollo would want to talk to him. What I want to know is,why is he dressed in Caprican dress,and what was he doing in a Colonial Viper?" "Well, whoever he is, he's in our care now. We need to prep him for a skin graft to his face. He looks like a plate of mushies that went bad. Make the preperations." Salik says. As Cassie makes the preperations, she discovers something. "Doctor, I think you should see this." "What is it?" he asks. "It looks like the patient has previously had reconstructive surgery. I almost missed it.Unfortunately, whatever happend out there, wiped out almost all of the work that was done." "Lords....Ok, let's try to put him back to some sense of normal."
* * *
Rose was still with the others that had been left to help out the Galactica. She was flying near the Galactica and would stay that way until told otherwise to either land or head back in the direction of the Callisto. Rose had no idea on how long she had been out in space in her viper and didn't know how much longer she would be there either. She could already tell that she was stiff and sore in several of her muscles and it would take awhile to work out the stiffness and the soreness she was feeling at the moment.

Rose thought about JustinB while she sat there in her viper looking out at the stars. She wished she was with him right then. Rose missed him and wanted the feel his arms around her at that moment. She had no idea on when she would be seeing JustinB again and hoped he made it back to the Callisto safely. There had been no word since JustinB left to head back to the Callisto on if he arrived back safely or when the Callisto would be arriving at their current location. Rose hoped that she would be hearing something soon in regards to not only JustinB, but also the Callisto.

[LucianG]

Hawke
"Well, I'm no reconstructive surgeon,but I think I did a very good job." says Salik. "You did wonderfully,doctor." Cassiopia says.

Apollo walks in and talks to Salik. "Any idea who this man is?" he asks. "He looks famillar,but I can't place him." says Cassy. "I can. His viper was pretty shot up when he was brought in. The only thing I don't understand is why he wasn't in a Colonial Warrior uniform. Has he awakened yet? There are a few people who want to talk to him. Including President Tigh." "Not yet Commander. He'll be out for at least twelve centars." Salik told him. Apollo sighs and says "Ok. Let me know when he awakens. I want to be the first to talk to him." He leaves.

* * *
A pilot is in a cold cell freezing his butt off. Two cylon centurions come in and take him somewhere. He's vaguely aware of them. He feels very groggy. Aparrently He's drugged. The two put him into a cortical reader. A gold centurion comes into the room. "What is your name and where are you from?" he droned. "Go to Hades." He manages to slur out. "We will get the information from you one way or another." he says. "NOOOOOOOOOO!" He manages to scream out.
* * *
"NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!" The pilot screams. He sits up and attract the attention of the doctor and nurse. "Easy,son. You're safe." the doc says. The pilot groans. "Weirdest dream. Where am I?" He ask as he lies back down. "The battlestar Galactica life station." "Can't be. Galactica was missing last I heard." "Well, we're here. Rest easy son. I have someone who is VERY interested in talking to you." the doc goes to the control panel on his desk and pages someone.
About five centons later Commander Apollo walks in. The pilot attempts to get up and salute. "Lieutenant..." A wave of dizziness suddenly hits him and lies back down. "Hawke. Welcome to the battlestar Galactica. I'm sure you have alot of questions. But first I'd like you to answer a few of mine. How was it you got stranded in your viper?" "Don't remember much. Was coming to help my squadron commander shake off a Cylon assault. Went after one too close to the atmosphere of some planet they were patroling and blacked out. Don't remember anything after that. Anything else?" I asked.
* * *
Lucian
“They established their base INSIDE the dead moon where it would be hidden rather than upon it. Based on their records and their projected capacities, I suspect that they performed their job according to their original assignment. They started manufacturing the materiel for a new front for the empire, and they’ve been doing it for over 100 yahrens. They were to manufacture infrastructure, manufacturing capability, and then weapons and Cylons. When they received the latest plans from the Imperious Leader, they would start producing base-ships to carry their Centurions and weapons out on their conquest to our back door, take on the Vraska, or whatever other mischief they could get into. Fortunately for us, since word that the base was established never reached the empire, the base-ship plans never arrived. However, according to their resource survey, if they followed their plan and just produced the weapons and Cylons, they’ve probably got enough firepower inside that rock to wipe out our entire fleet more than a hundred times over! If we let them escape from that little ball, we’re toast!”

“How do we destroy a base we can’t find without them detecting us long before we get there?” asked Major Joey.

“I, or rather Commander Apollo, can help with that,” said Commander Sheba with a smile. “It will not be nearly as easy as it sounds though.”

She touched a control, and Commander Apollo's visage filled the screen. The recording picked up in the middle of an obviously longer message....
* * *
Brie
Brie had felt uncomfortable enough at this meeting that she knew she didn't really belong at. But seeing Commander Apollo's face...she was glad that they had found, or been found, by the Galactica. Most of the people on the Callisto had friends or family that they would finally be able to see again. Brie didn’t have any family, and all of her friends were already on the Callisto. On the Galactica were some people who didn’t think she should be a warrior, they doubted her abilities, they even doubted her sanity. She couldn’t help but wonder what the reaction would be when those people found out that she had finally admitted that Turner was dead.

Soon it would be in the Galactica’s main computer. That would make it even more official than it already was, if possible. All thoughts, all hopes and dreams of seeing him alive would be gone. Brie felt that it should be okay, she had moved on, even realized that it was possible to care about someone else. But somehow it was difficult for her again. She could picture Turner climbing into his viper that last time...Brie suddenly felt sick to her stomach. She needed to find a way out of the meeting.
* * *
Stadia
Stadia waited outside the war room hoping to catch Brie. She had to tell Brie the real reason she cant return to active duty. She couldnt hide it for long.

She just wished Marcus was here. She had wanted him to be the first to know.
* * *
JustinB
By this time, I could see why Squadron C.O's were not normally present during these meetings. It had been an experiencing insight into the running of command. For now I was just too happy being in charge of Black Squadron. I listened attentively to Commander Apollo’s plan to knockout this cylon installation without being detected. I hoped it would involve lots of flying.
* * *
Lucian
Colonel Starbuck's voice began describing the ship shown on the display. "Records show that this is a Cylon tanker circa 150 yahrens ago. Unfortunately, this vid was taken three cycles ago. Colonial...uhm...Intelligence tells us that it was probably on track from an automated orbital gas refining platform within the cloud layers of the gas giant Pangara Major Zeta. Based on the records, they're telling us that these were uninhabited, but I wouldn't count on that considering they've known we were here for a while, IF it was ever uninhabited in the first place. We think that it should take approximately one to two cycles to load one of these things. They're telling me," and Starbucks voice was beginning to sound even more incredulous, "that it might be possible to sneak an infiltration squad onto one of these automated ships and sail right to the Cylon base. IF there was some type of distraction, such as say, a Viper attack near the hidden base right as the ship arrived, it might be possible to get that ship into the base, especially if they need the supplies aboard it."

Apollo's voice took over, "To that end, our Vipers destroyed one of these tankers last cycle. We believe that should put their manufacturing in need of more of the refined gases aboard the ship, so they'll be really interested in getting it home safely, possibly including even sending a Raider escort squadron. If we can get our sabotage team aboard the tanker on the platform just prior to launch, the trip should take less than a cycle. The Callisto launches an attack in the vicinity of the Cylon base shortly before the tanker arrives but on the opposite side of the moon so the Cylons don't divert it. The tanker enters the moon, and the sabotage team reaches the control room to activate controls of all the entry ports so they can be spotted by our ships. The Callisto's bombers hit the ports as the landing teams destroy what they can, including main reactors and fuel dumps."

Starbuck broke in, "Yeah, the teams capture a ship and escape, the base blows, and we're all happy. And I've got some new pyramid gambits that can't possibly lose, too."

Sheba stopped the recording. "The fleet will escape while the battle is occurring. The Galactica will play rear guard this time, and try to help us escape as well. Before I ask for teams, I'm going to give you one other piece of information, off the record, that was conveyed to me privately by Apollo. He doesn't think it will be possible to destroy the base, but they think the distraction should be enough to pull enough Cylons away from the desired jump points that the fleet should escape." She paused, wondering if she should really continue, "The landing team, which we project at six Warriors and 20 Colonial Troopers, will probably never leave that moon. Now, I need volunteers."
* * *
Charybdis
Did I hear what Sheba just said? The troopers and the assault team would probably be on a one-way mission?

I couldn't believe that things had gotten so bad, but with all that had transpired, was it the only way?

[LucianG]

Brie
"The landing team, which we project at six Warriors and 20 Colonial Troopers, will probably never leave that moon. Now, I need volunteers."

A wave of excitement shot through Brie upon hearing Commander Sheba’s words. This was it, the mission she had been waiting for her whole life. She had been raised in a military-run orphanage, filled with the children of fallen warriors. She had been taught her whole life that there was nothing greater than dying for the survival of the human race. She had always felt a little bit guilty that she was the only from her old orphan ship who was still alive. It was like part of her had never fulfilled her duty.

Before raising her hand to volunteer, she thought quickly about the consequences. Her service record over the past few yarhens should make up for what happened when Turner died, in fact it would probably help to be a little bit crazy. She had no family that she would be leaving behind, which made her an ideal candidate. She had ground experience and combat experience, in fact most people with her level of experience would have moved to the bridge by now. She had friends that she would never see again, but there was always that chance with every mission. And Skyler was more than capable to lead Gold Squadron.

Skyler. He wouldn’t like it if Brie volunteered. Whatever it was that they had together would be over before it even started. He would also probably try to volunteer himself, but Brie wouldn’t let him. She needed to know that Gold Squadron would be taken care of, led properly. If Brie was accepted for the mission, Skyler would be staying behind.

Slowly, Brie raised her hand. “Ma’am, I’m sure I can find some volunteers from Gold Squadron. And I myself would also like to volunteer.”
* * *
Lucian
Lucian was busy making a quick sketch of the Cylon transport vessel when Brie said, “Ma’am, I’m sure I can find some volunteers from Gold Squadron. And I myself would also like to volunteer.”

With Brie involved, he was sure the mission would be in good hands. The probability of losing her and the rest of the team wasn't acceptable to him as it clearly was not acceptable to Commander Sheba.

Captain Hector of the Colonial Troopers spoke up saying that his troopers would be ready. Then, Commander Sheba said, "Brie, you'll be in command of the moon mission. Your group will be transported to the Cylon tanker by shuttle. You'll need to have your team ready in six centars, fully equipped and ready to go. You'll need some training in Cylon computer technology and codes, so report to Scienc in two centars with your Warrior team for training by Science Assistant Fallel." Fallel, the Frodarian Outlander, had labored in Cylon captivity for a number of yahrens maintaining the dangerous parts of their system on the Frodar Alpha moon. His health was still affected by the captivity and low grav conditions, so he, despite his desire, would not be able to accompany the group.

"Now, in order to do get our team into that moon, we have to find and capture that orbital refinery and capture the tanker vessel without the Cylons on that moon knowing about it. Captain JustinB, that's your mission. Your group of Vipers will find the platform, disable long range communications, and capture the platform and tanker. When you leave, your group will have set explosives to destroy the platform sometime after the tanker is safely in that moon. Your team launches in five centars in order to give you plenty of time to fulfill your mission and allow the tanker to depart on what we believe is the correct schedule."

Lucian was thinking of Colonel Starbuck's comments. Starbuck clearly doubted CI's assessment that the platform would be deserted, and Lucian was in agreement. He squinted his left eye slightly in warning while looking directly at Justin, and thought he caught Justin's gaze for a moment, but wasn't sure. He looked back at his sketch when Commander Sheba spoke his name.

"Major Lucian, as I believe you're currently suspecting, it's doubtful that a Cylon tanker will be capable of supporting human life, particularly as many as we need to send, without some modifications. You'll be responsible for designing and installing the needed modifications. The ship's specifications, to the best of our knowledge, have been downloaded for your use. Full Engineering and Science support are available for your use. Your design and any fabrication must be complete and ready for installation in six centars. Now, I know there must be questions."
* * *
Brie
Brie raised her hand for a second time. She purposely didn't look at Charybdis. She didn't have any family, but he was close. "Ma'am," she said, "I'd like to request my leave, so I can assemble my team."

"Granted," Commander Sheba replied.

Brie left the room, surprised to see Captain Stadia waiting for her. "Major, I need to talk to you," Stadia said.

"I'm calling a meeting for all of Gold Squadron in 15 centons," Brie said quickly. "Meet me in the Ready Room in 10." She hurried off, leaving Stadia behind.
* * *
JustinB
Just as Major Brie tok her leave I too got Commander Sheba's attention. "If I may request my leave, so I can also assemble my team."

"Granted Major," Commander Sheba replied.

As I exited the War Room I was straight on my communicator. "Captain Kris, Major JustinB. Meet me in my office in five centons." I hastened my pace towards my office.
* * *
Amy
"So", Artus had asked, "just what answers can you give us?"

The man in white was about to respond when several others, dressed like he was, entered the room. They confered in whispers, and the man's face grew grim as he listened. He nodded several times.

"Wonder what that's about?" Artus commented. I nodded, and reached out to take his hand. I wasn't above seeking a little comfort at a time like this.

The man in white spoke at last. "I am truly sorry to have to cut this short", he said, "but the time has come". He gestured toward me. "If you would be so kind as to come with me, Captain Amy."

"Why?" I asked. "What's going on?"

Artus stepped in. "Nobody's going anywhere until we have some answers, pal." The man in white just looked amused as he glanced at Artus.

"Please" he said, "there is nothing you could do to stop me. Unless you'd rather be returned to your disintegrating viper".

Artus looked pained. "Ehm... alright. I've played enough pyramid to know when someone else has a better hand. I'll be right here, Amy. I won't go anywhere without you."

"I'm glad you are being reasonable, Artus", the man said. "Besides, we aren't finished with you yet."

"It'll be okay, Artus", I said. "I'm not afraid. But thanks for trying to protect me anyway." I smiled affectionately at him, then turned to the man in white. "Lead the way", I said.

Without speaking he led me down pure white corridors until we reached a room. I hadn't noticed the doorway until we were almost on top of it. At last, the man in white spoke. "I am truly sorry for the mistakes we have made regarding you."

"But it's going to be corrected, right?" I asked. "I'm going back to the Callisto?"

"I believe that is what will happen, yes".

"Everyone will be so relieved to know you are here, looking out for all of us", I said.

"I'm sorry, but you'll have no memory of our meeting. None at all. And I regret to say that we aren't quite as protective as you seem to want to believe we are."

"But knowing you are out here will give our people such hope and confidence..."

The man in white simply shook his head. "You don't understand. And probably never would if I tried to explain it to you. But the forces of light and dark fight on many levels. Your plight is just a mere fraction of the whole picture. And if I tried to explain that sometimes both sides have to strike an alliance to achieve an end, well, you wouldn't begin to understand that either." He motioned toward the doorway. "Please go. And if the Lords of Kobol have anything to say about it, we will meet again. For we here still have need of you, and your friend back there." He gestured toward the way we came. "Do you love him?" he asked bluntly.

I was surprised at the question. I thought for a moment. "I wish I could answer. It's complicated, but a part of me does, yes. And the rest of me wants to."

He nodded. "Complications. There always seem to be complications. Goodbye, Captain Amy". He extended his hand. I shook it, and without further word, I entered the room.

[LucianG]

The room was brightly lit, and looked like all the others I'd seen, but there was something different. In the micron it took me to notice the change, the room was plunged into darkness. Something brushed my leg, and I jumped back. I could hear breathing, a breathless sort of panting, and echoes of what sounded like growling from all around me. I spun around, trying to find the exit, but the doorway no longer seemed to be there.

Suddenly my head felt like it was on fire. Not my head, my brain! I grasped my head and started to fall, wanting nothing more than to curl up into a ball and die, but I found myself stretched flat out on some sort of table. My arms and legs were stretched out, and I could not move. The pain in my head was unbearable. I didn't have the breath to scream, but I began to cry.

I began to be aware of my clothes coming off. Being peeled in layers from me. And then my body itself began to peel. Layers of skin, muscles from my bones being separated! I felt it all, not understanding how I could endure such pain. I could feel my mind being sifted through like so much sand through one's fingers.

This could not be real! I tried to hold onto my thoughts and memories even as I felt them drifting, sifting away...

And I thought I heard voices. What were they saying? I could almost make them out, yet I couldn't. And then I heard one voice, dark and threatening, yet clear as a bell. It spoke one word.

"Agreed".

The pain stopped and the room got brighter. Brighter, brighter... I began to feel dizzy, like I was spinning... And then the spinning stopped.
* * *
I opened my eyes, focused, and found myself looking at a big red button. The sign above it said "door release". Where was I?

Airlock! I'd actually locked myself into an airlock! I shook my head. I felt horrible, but I couldn't figure out why. Something was tugging at the edges of my mind, but stayed out of reach. I shook my head again. This was going to be embarrassing if I couldn't get out of this airlock.

I studied the wall chart, not wanting to hit the wrong button by mistake. I figured, after a moment's thought, that I'd better just swallow my pride rather than risk hitting the wrong button.

I keyed the comlink. "Bridge, Captain Amy here. I'm in..." I checked the number on the wall. "I'm in airlock 17-A. Could you kindly override the system so I could get out of here?"

"How'd you get in there?" a voice replied.

"Just override the system, please..." I said.

"One moment."
* * *
Charybdis
"Colonel!" came the almost shriek from Lt. Aegina at the control panel in front of the bridge.

I quickly went over to see what the commotion was. "What is it, Lieutenant?" I asked.

"Colonel, it's Cpt. Amy. She's requesting overriding the airlock on Alpha corridor, #17-A. It appears she's locked in."

Locked in?? An airlock?? What the frack? But the news was like a huge rock had just been lifted from my mind...and heart. She was safe.

"Do it, Lieutenant. And tell her to get up to the bridge immediately!" I barked.

A while ago I had made up my mind what to do about the infamous Cpt. Amy. I didn't have the time to tell her what I had decided before she left on her mission. It was going to be hard. Maybe I had intentionally put it off. But this time, I now decided that nothing was going to keep me from telling her what was on my mind...
* * *
Brie
TO ALL MEMBERS OF GOLD SQUADRON:

There will be a mandatory meeting for all members of Gold Squadron in 15 centons in the Gold Ready Room. No absenses or lateness will be accepted. This could be the most important meeting ever.

Major Brie
Gold Squadron
P.S. All warriors aboard the Callisto are welcome to attend, but it's mandatory for Gold Squadron.
* * *
Although she needed to prepare for the most important, and probably last, squadron meeting of her life Brie quickly checked the status of the other members of Gold Squadron. She was glad to find out that Captain Amy had been found, but how she had gotten stuck in an airlock was beyond Brie. She was saddened by the death of Lieutenant Artus, knew that is was partially her fault because of the changing of wingmates in the middle of the battle. No, it wasn’t her fault, it wasn’t Agelastus’ fault, it was the fault of the Cylons.

Brie made it to the Ready Room six centons before she was to meet with Stadia. She didn’t know what Stadia wanted but she knew one thing, neither Stadia nor Marcus would be allowed on this mission. She needed people who didn’t have many ties, and since they had recently taken the seal Brie wasn’t about to separate them forever.

Although she wasn’t purposely avoiding him, Brie was glad that she hadn’t run into Skyler. He wasn’t going to be happy about her going, he’d probably volunteer to go instead. But she was the one who was going, Skyler would be the new CO of Gold Squadron. It was probably about time.

Taking a seat at the front of the room, Brie looked about her. A smile crept over her face. Even knowing the consequences, she was glad that she was headed on what was most likely her final mission.
* * *
Charybdis
This was one meeting I had to be at. I wanted to ask Brie herself what the frack she was doing. She was one of my oldest friends going way back. We were a lot more than just Warriors, she was my friend.

I arrived at the meeting room before anyone else arrived. She didn't see me enter before I quickly asked, "Brie. What are you doing? You're too valuable to us all to be going on this mission."

I knew what she was probably going to say, but I wanted to hear it from her...
* * *
Brie
Although she didn’t see him enter, Brie wasn’t at all surprised to hear Charybdis’ voice. "Brie. What are you doing? You're too valuable to us all to be going on this mission."

The smile that had started earlier continued to grow. “What took you so long? I expected you to get here half a centon ago.” Charybdis didn’t answer, not that Brie expected him to. “What am I doing? My duty. And don’t give me that ‘too valuable’ felgercarb. I’m no more valuable than the greenest cadet. This is a mission that requires someone with my type of experience to lead it if it has any chance of succeeding.”

“There are other people with experience,” Charybdis said.

“I know,” Brie said. “But I WANT to go. This is the mission I’ve been waiting for my whole career. Besides, how can I ask someone from my squadron to do something that I’m not willing to do myself?”

“I realize that,” Charybdis said.

“And who am I supposed to send?” Brie continued. “Marcus, who just took the seal? Or Amy, knowing how badly she’s wanted to be reunited with her parents? Or Skyler? Of course, there is an upside to all of this.”

“What’s that?” Charybdis asked.

“From now on you can bug Skyler when it comes to Amy instead of me.” Brie smiled again, but Charybdis didn’t. She could see how this was hurting him. “Come on, you led Gold Squadron before I did. You know what it’s like. I keep loosing people and loosing people but coming back myself. It gets to you after awhile. Did you know that every single person that I grew up with is dead? Every one. As I said, it gets to you. Besides, just because Commander Apollo expects this to be a one-way mission doesn’t mean it will be. Don’t count me out yet.”

[LucianG]

Agelastus
The Major's notification (or, more accurately, summons) that a meeting was to take place caught me slumped on a bunk. I'd dropped my flight data off at the simulators, but a tough session going over it was not something to be undertaken when tired.

Besides,the ship was still on alert.

My few centons of semi-sleep hadn't refreshed me much, but I did grab a quick shower and change before I headed down for the meeting.

Something big was in the air. If I hadn't known that before, it would certainly have been brought to my attention by the tense atmosphere I felt as I entered to see the Colonel and the Major in a face to face, probably heart to heart discussion.

I slipped quietly into a corner to wait.
* * *
Charybdis
She had me. There was nothing I could do to stop her. ANd in a way, she was right. If I were heading up Gold squadron still, my name would probably be right at the top of that volunteer list.

"Brie. I know what that's like. Losing people you love. I may have been one of the lucky ones still having my parents and now being reunited with my sister, but that goes to show you, anything can happen, when you allow yourself to live. Don't cheat yourself out of living now. You've made it this far. That's a great accomplishment. Carry on for those who we've lost."

Brie sort of chuckled to herself, she was in a rather light-hearted mood for such a serious predicament. "Charybdis, I know this sounds strange, but going on this mission is the best thing for me. Don't you see, by going I am living my life to the fullest."

Yes, it did seem strange, but I think I knew what she meant. She had to be 'in the arena' and not sitting behind waiting for life to pass her by. She had done enough of that.

If we lost her, if I lost her because of this mission, I wouldn't cry for her. I would be proud. Prouder than anyone in my whole life. Not that I would want that to happen, of course, but I understood. Heck, I should be volunteering too if Sheba would let me, but I knew her answer before I would get two words out.

I grabbed Brie by the arms and stared into her eyes. "Take care of yourself. I'll see you around," I finished with a smile making sure she knew that I fully intended her to come back from this mission.

I sure hope I was right…
* * *
Brie
“Can I ask you one favor?” Brie said quickly, before Charybdis could leave.

“Anything.”

“Could you keep an eye on Skyler?” Brie asked. “He sort of fancies himself as my protector, and he doesn’t know about this yet. He’s not going to be too happy.”

“You’ve got it,” Charybdis said.

Brie smiled again. “While you’re in such a generous mood, could you also go to the Commander and recommend me for a quick promotion? Lieutenant Colonel sounds a whole lot better than Major.” Brie winked at Charybdis and turned away so she could get ready for the meeting. She wondered where Stadia was, if she didn’t show up soon she might have to have that talk with Skyler instead.
* * *
Amy
Upon finally getting the door to the airlock released, I was no sooner free than I was hit with the news of Artus's death in combat. Stunned at the loss, I responded by mostly reflex to the meeting announcement posted by Brie. I entered the briefing room, noticing Brie in conversation with Charybdis. Not wanting to break in, I instead found myself a seat, trying to keep the tears from coming. My conflicting emotions ran from getting revenge, to an overwhelming sense of loss, to just wanting to chuck the whole thing. The fleet was found- why not just go home? Now that I could I wasn't sure I wanted to.
* * *
Charybdis
I started to walk out when I saw Cpt. Amy entering the room. Our eyes locked for a split micron.

I motioned to her so she could understand that I wanted to see her right after the meeting.

I would be anxiously awaiting...
* * *
Stadia
Stadia entered the meeting room and found a comfortable place to sit and get comfortable. She waited with the rest.

Stadia wondered how she was going to tell Major Brie that her sprianed wrist wasnt the only reason to keep her off the active duty list. She was worried also how Marcus would take it. SHe wondered if he would even be found.
* * *
Brie
Brie noticed that Stadia had entered the room. Since there were still a couple of centons before the meeting she motioned for her to come up to the front. She wondered what it was that Stadia wanted, she didn't look like she felt all that good.
* * *
Stadia
Stadia didnt feel like getting up. She wasnt even sure she could last thru the whole meeting. Being pregnant is not fun.

She stares at the groups of pilots assembled in the room. She wished she could go on the upcoming mission. This is what this meeting had to be about. She was curious.
* * *
JustinB
Once the unknown viper delivered to the Galactica, Captain Randrius launched back into space.

Once he rejoined with his flight he said, "Ok flight lets kick in those turbos back to the Callisto."

"Do you know where she is Sir" Rose asked.

"As a matter of a fact I do. Just before launch I was given her location." he replied.

Going as fast and economically as they could, they made their way to the Callisto. It was probably the most uneventful flight they ever had.

Centars later they picked up a blip on their scanner which made them smile. "Callisto, this is Black One request permission to land."

"Permission granted to land in Beta Bay. Welcome back Black One."
* * *
On the Callisto, Major JustinB was on his way to his office, when he was contacted by the bridge. "Major, the rest of your squadron is landing in beta bay."

"Thanks for the heads up," he replied diverting to the landing bay.

[LucianG]

JustinB
One by one the flight led by Captain Randrius landed. Once landed, they were met by Major JustinB. He went to all of them and shook their hands. When he came to Lieutenant Rose though he gave her a big hug and whispered something in her ear.

Then he stood back and said, "I know you have all just come back from an exhausting patrol. But things have developed since we last seen one another. I need you all to freshen up and be in the Black Squadron ready room in thirty centons." The smile they just had, vanished. Major JustinB turned and left, leaving the patrol members slightly bewildered.

Captain Randrius then said, "Back to business then men. You heard the Major, let’s freshen up."
* * *
She had just been given her briefing when the Viper which towed the stricken viper launched. Her orders were simple. She was to transfer to the Battlestar Callisto. Her knowledge of the system would be invaluable, plus she would help in replacing the wounded warrior as they would need everyone they could muster.

So here she was jumping into her viper and saying farewell to her flight crew, maybe for the last time. Hitting her turbos she rocketed down the launch tube. She flew turbos all the way until she had caught up with the flight of vipers heading towards the Callisto.

"Captain Randrius, this is Lieutenant Logan."

"Yes Lieutenant, what can I do for you?"

"Captain, I have been ordered to join your flight for transfer to the Battlestar Callisto. I request permission to join your flight?"

"This is highly irregular but permission granted," he replied.

Lieutenant Logan then slipped her viper to the left flank of the flight. As she flew onwards she wondered what would be inshore for her.

After what seemed like an eternity she finally landed on her new Battlestar. Captain Randrius informed her to make her way immediately to Major Lucian on the Bridge. Once there she handed the orders to Major Lucian. Once they were looked over he informed her that she would be in Gold Squadron and to make her way to the Gold Squadron Ready Room for a meeting. With a salute she then left the Bridge and made her way to her new Squadron.
* * *
Lucian
As soon as the three squadron leaders exiting, with Jorlan having taken his leave right after JustinB, Sheba began to deal with a few other ship’s issues. Major Lucian asked to be excused, too, since the task of designing a living habitat in a Cylon tanker vessel would not be, he was sure, a simple task. Solon and Fallel fell in step right behind him. Elderly Solon, with his cane tapping on the deck, quickly fell behind. He told the others, “Don’t mind me, I’ll be there soon enough. Now scram!”

Flashing grins at each other, Lucian and Fallel took off toward the Science Lab at a trot. Fallel was obviously uncomfortable by the time they arrived a couple of minutes later. His adjustment to normal gravity after yahrens of abuse by his Cylon captors under the light gravity of the moon Frodar Epsilon Alpha had been difficult, but he was making progress. Lucian was glad to have the younger man with him when they arrived.

Though he was not officially assigned to the Science Lab or Engineering Department, his task was too important not to have the full cooperation of both divisions, and for that reason, Sheba had given him the authority to command it. On arriving, he told one of the Science Techs that there would be a mandatory meeting of all Science and Engineering personnel, excluding the Engineers maintaining or repairing the Callisto’s engines, in five centons. Anyone who chose not to attend would be on report, subject to a secton of brig time.

Eyes wide, the Tech asked, “Off duty personnel, too, Sir?”

“Yes. All. Wake them if they’re asleep. If this mission doesn’t succeed, they’ll probably have all eternity to sleep. The clock is ticking, and there aren’t that many centons left.”

To Fallel, he said, “Commander Sheba said that she was downloading what was known about the tanker vessels of this type, but I suspect that if those things were built in this system, the complete specifications might be on the Cylon data disk. Let’s get someone on that right away. Same for the platform. And while we’re at it, let’s see if there are any details on that Cylon base in that data. Both will probably have been modified over the yahrens, but if we can give Justin and Brie something with which to work, it will be more than they have now. Commander Apollo may think this is a suicide mission, but these are our brothers and sisters, and we’re not going to let that happen without giving the Cylons the fight of their lives. Get someone on that, then you need to start working on your training session for the landing party. You’ve got less than two centars, ‘Professor’ Fallel.”

“Right away, Sir,” said Fallel, with a ring of respect in his voice. He’d been about to check for the tanker vessel specifications, but, since it wasn’t his task, he hadn’t considered that the other two might be included as well. The sound of determination in Lucian’s voice had suddenly given him a new confidence that this task might actually succeed.

Five centons raced by quickly. As soon as the tanker vessel design specifications were located in the database, the information was downloaded into working files and important parts were displayed on the walls of the Science & Engineering conference room, which was centered between the two groups. Overlaying Apollo’s tanker information with the Cylon specifications, Lucian gave a low whistle. No wonder the Colonials always had such trouble with the Cylons! The differences were startling. In the event that they had designed strictly according to the Colonial guesswork, the mission would have been doomed to failure from the start. Taking the pointer, he split the screen and moved the Cylon data to the left and the Colonial data to the right. He began making notes in each column.

The room was crowded with people when Solon entered the room. “Sorry I’m late. Just can’t get good legs these days.”

Ignoring the crack and overcoming the assorted chuckles, Lucian said, “Our task is….”
* * *
Skyler
Skyler left Brie on the bridge heading to the flight deck. He wasn't sure what was going down yet, but he would bet a secton's wages the Squadron would be neck deep in felgercarb before it was over. As he walked down the corridor he glanced up at a Warrior that was approaching him, he couldn't believe what he was seeing...

"Logan??? Is that really you?" Skyler asked, wiping his hand across his eyes to make sure he wasn't dreaming...

Standing in front of Skyler was a tall, attractive female Warrior. Logan's long dark hair fell into her eyes as she looked up. She pushed it behind her ear and smiled slowly. "Skyler...." pausing for a micron to take it all in ."By the lords, its been what, almost 3 yarhen?" as she walked up and gave him a hug.

"You sure feel real enough to me, so I must not be dreaming..."

"No, I am here, in the flesh." As she said this Logan handed Skyler a folded document. As he opened it he saw it was orders from the Galactica, signed by Commander Apollo approving her transfer to Gold Squadron almost 2 and a half yarhen ago, then he signed it again just a few centars ago. " I was packing my gear to ship over here when the Cylons crashed the party and the Callisto stayed behind to cover the fleet. Now that you have rejoined the fleet,here I am, looking for a Major Brie to report for duty."

"Well, the Major is in a staff meeting, which I am sure she is finding out about the Galactica's return as we speak. I am on the way to the Flight deck to ascertain the status of the Squadron after our little skirmish with the Cylons. Since I am the SIC of the Squadron, I accept your orders, and will relay it to her. Now, walk with me and you can catch me up on everything...."

"Catch you up, you are a Captain and Squadron SIC, looks like I am the one who needs catching up." Logan joked as she turned and followed him back to way she had came. "So, you seeing anyone now?"
* * *
Stargazor
Stargazor was in the launch bay sitting behind some crates with ammo. It was a place he could be alone. Except for the few technicians he was there alone and they never remarked him.

He was looking over the specs of his Viper. Somehow he new what all the technical data was all about, he started tracing something down on one of the technical schematics.
This cant be right? How could someone oversee this! Stargazor looks over his findings one more time.

I better check this out. Stargazor stands up and heads to the nearest viper. He opens a side panel near the cockpit and with a small flashlight out of his flight suit, he looks for something deep inside.

Suddenly his face changes and he say’s “By the Lords…, its in all our vipers! What happened with me could happen with all the ships! I better show this to Major Lucian and the others!”

Stargazor quickly leaves towards the briefing room.

[LucianG]

JustinB
By the time I had reached my Office, Captain Kris had made herself comfortable. Without wasting any time, I informed her about our mission to find and capture an orbital refinery and capture a tanker vessel without the Cylons on that moon knowing about it. There was a look of horror on her face for this was such a big task.

"The problems are these Kris. As you know myself and the rest of the patrols have had little sleep. In under five centars we will be launching in order to give us plenty of time to fulfill our mission and allow the tanker to depart on what is believed to be the correct schedule. So I need everyone in the Black Squadron Ready Room in fifteen centons for a briefing. Once concluded, myself and the patrol that has landed will have a ninety centon sleep period. What I need you and the rest of Squadron to do is this. I need you to coordinate with the flight crews and get our vipers in battle ready condition. I want all systems checked. I am sure Stargazor can help you out there. Coordinate with Major Lucian for Intel on our objective. One centar before launch we will meet back in the Ready Room for a final briefing." Pausing for a micron I continued. "Also we will need solonite charges for the disabling of long range communications and destruction of the platform. Any questions?"

"No Sir." Kris replied.

"Before you go, I want to say that you have served me well as Third Officer. Once this is over, I would like to invite you for a drink. For now though please see to that every Black Squadron warrior is in attendance, no excuses."

With a saluting nod, Captain Kris left my office. I looked over my files and over the personnel roster. I had a very talented and committed bunch of warriors under my command. The upcoming mission would test them all.

My office door opened and standing there was Rose. "Come on in sweetheart.” As Rose made her way to my side of the desk, I hit the button to lock the door. Rose sat facing me on my chair. Our lips interlocked and kissed passionately for centons.

"Rose," I said while trying to catch my breath. "I will be ordering those who have just arrived from the Galactica to a sleep period after the briefing. How would you like to come to bed with me?"

This brought the biggest smile to Rose's face I have ever seen. "Yes JustinB, I'd Love too." Was her reply.
* * *
Rose
Rose continued to smile as she looked into JustinB's eyes. She had so wanted this moment for so long and it wouldn't be much longer now for her and JustinB to have some private alone time with one another. Rose leaned back close to JustinB passionately kissing him again. It had been a long time it seemed since she had any time alone with JustinB and wanted to make up for that as much as she could right then.

Several more centons had passed befoe Rose pulled back a little from their passionate kiss. Rose had a hard to catch her breath while she continued to look into JustinB's eyes. She knew she should go so that she could get to the Ready Room and allow JustinB time to prepare for the briefing, but Rose couldn't pull herself away just yet. "I should go and head towards the Ready Room since my CO has called a briefing. That way, the sooner I am able to get out of the briefing, the sooner I can spend my down time with you in your quarters."

Rose passionately kissed JustinB once more before she reluctantly got up from where she had been sitting moments before. When she reached the door of JustinB's Office she turned around to look at him and wait for him to unlock the door. Rose leaned against the wall a little while she waited for JustinB. "If this keeps up for much longer," Rose softly says, "my CO may get after me for being late to the briefing. Don't want that to happen now do we handsome?"
* * *
JustinB
TO ALL WARRIORS OF BLACK SQUADRON:

There will be a compulsory meeting for all warriors of Black Squadron in 15 centons in the Black Squadron Ready Room. No absenses or excuses will be accepted.

Major JustinB
Black Squadron
* * *
Stargazor
Stargazor went into the briefing room and it looked like he was first to arrive.
* * *
Hawke
"Is there anything else you want to know Commander?" I ask. "Not right now. But I'm sure President Tigh will want to see you soon." He smiles at me. "Get well lieutenant. And welcome back." He leaves. I lie back in my bed and fall asleep.

"Lieutenant.." I hear a male voice. Was he talking to me? "Lieutenant!" I feel someone shaking my body. I get racked with pain! "Lieutenant,where is the Galactica?" "Don't know....Please stop shaking me. It hurts..." I gasp. I try to open my eyes but I can't. All I see is darkness. I hear him whisper something to someone else. I feel a jolt of electricity run through my body. I scream out loud.

I wake up and bolt upright gasping. "Welcome back to the land of the living,lieutenant. You've been out almost two sectons." the nurse says. "When can I get back to my own battlestar?" I ask. "Very soon." she says.
* * *
Brie
With the meeting about to start, Brie glanced around the room. Word that something big was up must have made it around the Callisto, all of Gold Squadron appeared to be there, as well as a few members of Silver Spar, some engineers, several techs and even a couple of food service workers. Brie was surprised to see Dr. Curemode sitting front and center. He had been a terrific warrior and a member of Gold Squadron until he accepted a promotion and moved to the bridge. Brie had understood why he left, he was one of the smartest people that she knew and being the Callisto’s director of technology seemed to fit him. She was also slightly surprised to see Captain Lazant standing in the back near the door. Most people that she knew hated Lazant, but she had somehow managed to form a friendship with him. She hadn’t talked to him in a long time, and with the urgency of the situation probably never would again.

Taking a deep breath, Brie stepped up to the podium. She suddenly felt guilty that she hadn’t talked to Skyler earlier, he was going to hear about her plans at the same time as everyone else. “Thank you for coming,” she began slowly. “Before we begin it saddens me to inform you of the death of Lieutenant Artus. A memorial service will be planned at a later date. He wasn’t with Gold Squadron very long, but he showed a lot of promise. I’d like to take a micron now and remember him, as well as all the others that we’ve lost at the hands of the Cylons.” Brie bowed her head, as did most others in the room. She waited almost a centon.
“Okay,” she continued, “on to business. As most of you know, the fleet has been found, right here in this system.” There were cheers and applause. Brie was glad, they were in a good mood. She held up a hand and the noise died down. “The problem with Cylons in the area is getting the fleet OUT of this system. Commander Apollo has come up with a plan. I have personally volunteered to lead this mission, so as soon as this meeting is over Captain Skyler will be in charge of all other business in Gold Squadron. See me ONLY about the mission, I don’t have a much time to prepare and a lot of work to do. I expect you to treat Captain Skyler with the same amount of respect that you have for me.” She smiled. “Or in some cases, more.” There was some laughter. “In a micron I’m going to be asking for volunteers, but not yet. Let me first give you a little bit of background. The Cylons have a base in this system, located inside one of the moons. It appears to be a forgotten base, forgotten that is until now. Without going into details, my group will be landing on the base, in a stolen Cylon tanker of course, and causing enough of a distraction so that the fleet will be able to escape.”

“That’s suicide!” Lieutenant Ben exclaimed loudly from the back of the room.

“That’s right,” Brie quickly agreed. “In all honesty, although there is an escape plan Commander Apollo seems to think that this mission is one way. But we’ve been separated from the fleet for a long time, Commander Apollo has NO IDEA what Gold Squadron is capable of.” Someone in the middle of the room started to applaud again, and it rapidly spread through the crowd. Although she wasn’t sure why it was one of the proudest moments of Brie’s life. After a full centon she held up her hand again, and the room eventually quieted. “Seriously, my friends, I volunteered for this mission knowing exactly what was at stake, and what the outcome most likely would be. I have no unfilled goals, only a few minor regrets that I can’t do anything to change, and no one that I need to make things right with. If you can’t say the same thing, I don’t want you to volunteer. I need five more warriors to complete my team. Sergeant Brinfort is also seeking infantry volunteers if you have the experience, although,” she looked directly at Skyler for the first time, “anyone from Gold Squadron to volunteer for the infantry needs my permission.” She signaled to a couple of people that she had asked earlier for help. “We’re going to be passing out pieces of paper and writing instruments, and I want you to think seriously about this. If you’re not interested in being on my team, simply write the word, ‘no.’ If you are interested, write, ‘yes,’ your name, and why you’re crazy enough to want to go, or at least why you should be considered. I am the only person who will see these, and there’s no shame whatsoever in NOT wanting to go. Think about it for a centon or two, write your answer, fold the paper in half, and then give it to me.”

[LucianG]

Brie
The room was very quiet, only the sound of rustling paper could be heard. Brie sat down. She could see the deep thought on several faces, she knew that they were trying to decide what to do. One by one, they started coming up to her and gave her their replies. She didn’t look at any of the slips, just placed them in a bag, she wouldn’t even open them until after the meeting was over and she could look at them privately in her quarters. When she had them all she returned to the podium. “I’ll have the list posted shortly,” she stated. “If your name is on it, we’ll be meeting in the science lab in one and a half centars. Be ready to go, we leave in five and a half.” She leaned against the podium and lowered her voice just a little bit. “I also want to say thank you to all of you. Being the CO of Gold Squadron has been the most incredible experience of my life. You are truly the greatest group of people that I’ve ever known, and I love each and everyone one of you.” Brie noticed the tears running down Lieutenant Mossycat’s face. She knew very well that there was little chance she would survive to see any of these people again, so she did the same thing she had done almost constantly since she had volunteered for this suicide mission. She smiled. “And just so all of you know, I have every intention of coming back, and in plenty of time for the next election, so don’t get too used to taking orders from Captain Skyler. Now, are there any questions?”
* * *
Charybdis
I made it back to my quarters after meeting with Brie. I would see her again in a few centars before her team left on the mission, there were 5 centars before they had to leave.

It wasn't right. We were all warriors. We all should have the same chance to volunteer. I had even asked albeit indirectly about my possible going on the mission with them, but Sheba quickly replied something about the mission is for the squadrons, not bridge personnel or something to that effect.

Frack! I was still a warrior. What right did we have to make them go and sacrifice themselves if we would not do the same thing? I felt torn between my former position of CO of Gold squadron and the overall position of safety for our people from the Cylons...

I just hoped and prayed that all of them would return...
* * *
Brie
Major:

I'd like to volunteer for the mission. You might argue that I have too much to lose, but you are wrong. The fleet has been found, and my family is safe. I know this, and would not be left wondering. With the death of Artus, my personal life is in order. I've ended things with Najinn, and frankly I do not think there is anything left with
Charybdis that is worth keeping me off the mission. I haven't had any indications to make me think otherwise. I took an oath to defend the fleet and it's people, and that is what I truly want to do, and it would be an honor to do
so at your side, whatever the outcome may be.

signed,
Captain Amy
* * *
Charybdis
I was still in my quarters. Even though it was one of the toughest missions we had ever asked anyone to undertake, it was for Gold Squadron only. I was just waiting until I saw Brie's list to find out who was going on this mission.

I had motioned to Amy when I left the meeting to see me as soon as the meeting was over. I was probably crazy with what I was about to do, but I didn't want any misconceptions or misunderstandings either.

I wanted to let Amy know EXACTLY where I, where we, stood.

I hoped she would show herself soon...
* * *
Brie
Brie was in her office, trying hard to assemble her team, but it was difficult. She had received more yes replies than no’s after her meeting. She couldn’t really figure out how much help the mess hall workers might be, but she appreciated their willingness.

Twice she had contacted Commander Sheba about non-Gold Squadron members who wanted to volunteer. A couple of quick, temporary transfers were approved. Sheba did tell Brie not to even ask about Colonel Charybdis, he was one person who wouldn’t be allowed to go. Brie didn’t tell her that she wouldn’t really want him on her team, not so soon after finding his sister. He was someone with a lot to lose.

Brie received a message from Sergeant Brinfort, who was heading the infantry on the mission. Having a larger number of spots to fill, he was having a little more difficulty and wanted to know if Brie could spare anyone. She gave it some thought, and also passed a message along to Major JustinB, asking him if there were any members of Black Squadron who might want to go with the infantry.

She went back to narrowing down her choices, she was getting closer.
* * *
Amy
I handed in my paper, wanting very much to be on the mission. It was in the Major’s hands now, to decide if I was to go. I’d hoped I had shot down any argument she might have had about me going, because I wanted to go. I left the briefing room, still overwhelmed by the sudden loss of Artus.

I went to an observation port, to look out at the stars where Artus had gone yet hadn’t returned from. He seemed so near to me, even now, though I knew that he was gone. But why were those feelings so persistent? I rested my head on the ledge of the window, trying to come to terms with losing him.

It wasn’t fair! Nothing was, that was for certain. I wasn’t sure if anything was ever going to come from my relationship with Artus, besides our friendship. Indeed, nothing more had really ever started, though I knew I liked him an awful lot. Who knew where it would have gone? And now, it’s dust. Dust, like our home colonies somewhere out there.

And now Charybdis wanted to see me. Suddenly, after not a word in how long? I struggled to remember the last time we’d spoken. It had to be before I’d gone on the follow-up mission to look for Brie on the ice planet. Oh yeah! Charybdis was against that mission. And pulled out the technical manual to keep me off Brie’s original mission. The urge to hit him sprung up again in my mind. How fresh that anger still was! We’d had an argument over his decision, and it wasn’t pretty. Maybe I’d finally gone to far, pushed him too far.

I’d returned from that mission, crash-landed under Cylon fire, yet he never checked up on me. I submitted recommendations for medals for my crew, and he rejected them. Then I’d gone on this latest mission, and still I hadn’t heard from him. I could see a pattern forming for sure. I was just one of the crew again. A junior officer, nothing more. That kiss I’d given him before leaving in the shuttle was the last one. That’s the way it seems to me, anyway. If Artus was somehow the cause for any of it, Charybdis hadn’t heard anything from me, that was for sure.

I looked out at the stars, blinking away any tear that tried to blur the bright specks of light before me. I needed to focus, and opening up old wounds wasn’t the way to do it. Until I heard otherwise, I expected to be on the mission, and I began to focus on what lay ahead. There was nothing to be gained in churning up the past. Artus was back there, Charybdis too. In different ways I’d lost them both.

[LucianG]

Brie
The following members of Gold Squadron are to report to the Science Lab in one centar for training:

Major (Dr.) Curemode
Captain Amy
Captain Lazant
Lieutenant Thunderhawk
Lieutenant Deke

Both Major Curemode and Captain Lazant have been temporarily assigned to Gold Squadron. Lieutenant Deke is coming out of retirement and returning to active duty. Also, Ensign Agelastus has been assigned to the Infantry for the duration of the mission, and the Infantry members are to report to the Science Lab as well.

One member of Black Squadron will also be assigned to the Infantry, I am awaiting word from Major JustinB on who it will be.

Thank you all for volunteering, you’ve made me proud. Captain Skyler is currently in charge of all other Gold Squadron business until I return.

Major Brie
Gold Squadron
* * *
Charybdis
The orders came through the system after Brie had them checked and sent out. I saw it but I couldn't believe it. There it was right on the screen. One name: Cpt. Amy.

What the frack was Brie thinking? More to the point, what the frack was Amy thinking? I felt like a million pinpricks ate at my flesh. I almost couldn't stand to be inside myself at the thought. But then, I caught myself. Amy had volunteered because she probably felt expendable. What did she have? She did have her parents back with the fleet, but our relationship had grown very strained over the past few sectons. It seemed that every time I tried to talk to her, things would just degenerate into feelings that could never come out and words that could never be said to one another.

I didn't want to make things hard for her, but this was different. I had only felt like this one other time, and I had to see her. I had to!!

I quickly left my quarters to find her before it was too late...
* * *
JustinB
Standing in the front of the Ready Room, I could see that everyone had arrived for the Briefing.

"To start off let me give you all some good news. For those who do not yet know, the rumor we have caught up with the fleet and the Galactica it is true." At that everyone cheered in delight. After motioning for everyone to be quiet I continued. "The bad news is we have jumped into a system full of Cylons. The Cylons have a base in this system, located inside one of the moons. It appears too been a forgotten base, that is until now. Commander Apollo has given the Callisto a few tasks to help the fleet jump out of the system. Our mission will be to find and capture an orbital refinery and capture a tanker vessel. Once this happens, Gold Squadron will take over from there. Now, in order for Gold Squadron to complete their mission, we have to find and capture that orbital refinery and capture the tanker vessel without the Cylons knowing about it. Once our Vipers find the platform and capture it, we are to disable long range communications and secure the tanker. We will have to set explosives to destroy the platform once Gold takes over. Further orders will be given at that time. We launch in under in five centars in order to give us plenty of time to fulfill our mission and allow Gold to depart on their mission on the correct schedule. For those who have just recently come back from the Galactica you are ordered to the barracks for some rest. While we who are tired are on a brief sleep period, the rest of the Squadron will be preparing their vipers for the mission. Assignments will be out once I have finished my sleep period. Captain Kris will be in charge until I wake up, so any questions please see her. Any questions?"

I looked around and everyone knew what they had to do. Remembering a message I was given prior to the briefing I quieted everyone once more. "I have a request by Major Brie for a volunteer from our Squadron to be attached to her for Gold's Mission. Are there any takers?"
* * *
Killjoy
The room remained silent as JustinB looked around. No one spoke and no one moved. Killjoy, sitting by the door near the back, took JustinB's question as a cue to bail from the meeting. There was no way he was going anywhere near Major Brie after that last lil fiasco she got him into. Unfortunately for the Captain his gun belt hung on the chair as he tried to move and he drew attention to himself.

JustinB spoke up. "Well it seems we have our volunteer. The rest of you are dismissed, Killjoy, you will remain for a few centons."

The room emptied quickly as Killjoy approached JustinB and spoke.

"Major, you know there is no way I want to work with that lady again. The last time I got tied up in one of her plans you and Stargazor nearly killed me!"

Justin put up his hand to silence the officer.

"Killjoy, I understand you reservations on this, but we need a guy with your particular talents on this one. If for no other reason do it because I'm asking you too. I need you to volunteer, I don’t want to make it an order."

Order? In all the time Killjoy had known JustinB he had never thrown the word 'order' at him before. Killjoy stood and looked at JustinB…his friend. And from his look it was important to him Killjoy was on this mission with Major Brie.

"Ok JustinB…no need for orders. Ill take the assignment. But when this mess is over…the drinks are on you for a while."

Killjoy stuck out his hand and the Major took it.

"It's a deal Killjoy. Now get your gear and report to Major Brie…I'll let her know you are on the way."

Killjoy looked at Justin as if confused.

"Gear….what Gear? I'm a pilot the only gear I need is my helmet and that's in the bay with my Vip……"

Justin interrupted by handing Killjoy a briefing pad….Killjoy looked at it and then back at JustinB and spoke.

"Oh, wait a micron boss, this is an infantry assignment….are you crazy..I'm not trained for…."

"You have you assignment Captain, now get you stuff together and report to Major Brie."

Killjoy snapped too and acknowledged his orders. "Yes Major"

Killjoy turned and started from the room as he did he heard JustinB call after him.

"Captain Killjoy!…Be safe…I expect you back here in one piece….and that is an order."

After some time, Killjoy located the equipment he needed for this mission and found himself outside the door Major Brie's office door. Against his better judgment, he pressed the button and wait for her to respond…
* * *
Stargazor
Stargazor waited for Killjoy to leave and then re entered the briefing room.

Sir, *pause*

The Major looked up for a moment with a surprized look.

Sir, there's something i need to tell you about our vipers!

The Major said "What is it Ensign"?

Stargazor; "Sir, i looked at the technical plans from our viper's and found a grave danger at high speed turns"!
"In the Omega cerquit there's a data analissis cable, who can overheat when we do pro-longed high speed turnes.

"When this cable breakes, our viper engines overhead and explode"!
"With the missions at hand, that could mean our downfall"!

"But there's also good news's"!
"I maybe found a way to correct it"!
"But i need a viper and clearance for flight to test it"!
"There's nobody better on board, i can fly as good as any and make the neccesary correction's if needed"!

"Sir i i make a mistake, you only loose one warrior"!
"If we don't do this now, you could loose a whole squadron"!