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Post by LucianG on Apr 24, 2005 14:58:59 GMT -6
Lucian “The central area, here, has the central core, communications towers, the refining equipment, tremendous numbers of pipes, and what appears to be landing areas on each end.”
“Landing areas? I thought this thing is supposed to be uninhabited.”
A new diagram flashed on the screen. “This is Colonial Intelligence’s version of the refining platform. It’s based on one we blew out of orbit over seventy yahrens ago. If you compare it to the platform we’re describing….”
Overlaid with the P.M. Zeta platform, the C.I. version was basically a small dot. It would have been difficult to dock one tanker. “As you can see, this one’s a good bit bigger,” which drew a round of laughter, “allowing it to have what appears to be landing areas at each end. This should allow some of Black’s Vipers to land after they take out the communications nest, here, any laser or missile defenses, which we suspect but can’t verify, and any ships that might be on the deck. If there are Raiders, there will be Centurions and maintenance personnel, so Black’s team will be responsible for capturing the landing platform to allow landing by Gold’s team and the Colonial Troopers. Once this area is under control, Black leads the charge to capture the tanker, assuming there's nothing else in the way that needs to be killed or destroyed. Unfortunately, we don't know about it if there is anything.”
“Major, what about atmosphere on this platform?”
“Fallel?”
“The platform is near the top of the cloud layer of P.M. Zeta, so there is an atmosphere,” said the young Frodarian Outlander, “but it’s not one you can breathe. Envirosuits will be required for operations on the platform. Also, gravity will be very low, but it will be present. If you fall off the platform—”
“—which isn’t advised,” said Solon.
“you will fall. Your only real hope of survival is that a shuttle will be under you almost immediately. Otherwise, in a few centons, as you fall further into the atmosphere, you’ll eventually be cooked as the temperature continues to rise in the outer atmosphere layers, and then as you enter deeper layers where temperatures drop and gases gradually become liquids, you’ll be crushed by the pressure. It will be a horrible way to die, so—”
“—again, we heartily advise against it,” said Solon with a grin.
“That’s right. Stay away from the edge, stay alive, and do your job,” said Lucian, “since everyone is needed on this mission.” Pointing to the central area, he said, “Now, near the landing areas, this control area, we believe, doubles as the quarters for any maintenance or guard staff. This area will need to be secured. Again, Black moves in, captures, and the Troopers will be responsible for keeping it secure.”
A picture of the tanker was now superimposed next to the platform. “This is Black’s ultimate objective….” * * * Brie Although she was listening to every word, Brie glanced around the room. Something was missing. She grinned when she realized what, or who, it was. Brie couldn't remember the last mission that she had gone on where Skyler had stayed behind. It was going to be strange to not have him watching her back. * * * Lucian “Major, a quick question. If you think there may be Cylons, could there be an atmosphere in the Command & Control or quarters areas?”
Lucian deferred to Fallel, who said, “That’s quite probable, since the Cylons often operate in an atmosphere since their original world had an atmosphere. Our search of the database shows they often operate in an atmosphere that is somewhat different than our own, but still breathable by humans; however, remember that they can survive in no atmosphere, whereas we cannot. This is a small base by Cylon standards, and the potential that they could blow out the atmosphere to wipe out a bunch of humans is not out of the question. I’d be very hesitant to take the helmet off my envirosuit unless I was very sure that all the Cylons were dead. The situation for Gold's team on the moon looks better, but we'll get to that shortly.”
“Follow-up question, sir: our envirosuits have magnetic boots. Are we sure they’re going to work on that platform, and if so, how good is the magnetic attraction?”
“I’ll take this one,” said Mission Specialist Fenmarnis, stepping forward from the rear. “The boots are electro-magnetic. Based on material properties of the platform, we’ve had the magnetic fields of all the boots adjusted to simulate 1.0 times standard gravity. You’ll be able to pick up your feet, walk, etc., but if you run or jump, there’s not enough magnetism to pull you down. If it is uncomfortable when you’re on the platform, you can make individual adjustments by popping the cover and adjusting the dial. See me, or if you are in Black Squadron, see Mission Specialist Phrynix, if you have questions as you are being outfitted.”
“Thanks, Fenny,” said Lucian, who then launched into a quick description of the tanker. When that was complete, a diagram of a roughly circular sphere appeared on the viewscreen. “This is Pangara Major Delta’s third moon, a small dead asteroid believed captured long ago. Much of the inside of this moon is hollow….” * * * Agelastus As Black Squadron's part of the secton's festivities was being explained, I freely admit that I wasn't paying enough attention. I was too busy being angry at myself.
In the rush to get ready for the briefing, I hadn't had time to talk to Sergeant Brinfort or any of the other members of the infantry about basic fire-arms training for Briseis.
It looked as if some of them hadn't even known about the presence of another non-infantry type before she'd walked into the room beside me. This could be a problem.
I'd have to talk to Brinfort directly the meeting ended.
“This is Pangara Major Delta’s third moon, a small dead asteroid believed captured long ago. Much of the inside of this moon is hollow....”
As Major Lucian began to outline Gold Squadrons part of the mission, I focused on the matter at hand. * * * JustinB I absorbed as much information as possible. This mission was not going to be the walk in park as others had thought. As I watched everyone’s reaction to what was being said, I started to take down a few notes. The fact that the information was one hundred and fifty yahrens old meant we had to expect the unexpected.
Most likely there will be perimeter defences. On my assignment list, I added that two EMP torpedoes be placed on all vipers for the sensors and relay transmitter as wel as any defences. I also added envirosuits to the list as well as assault laser rifles. We had big task ahead of us, but I knew we would not fail. I looked over at Rose and gave her a discreet wink. I wondered whether we would encounter any cylons. I hoped so cause the only good cylon was a dead one.
A picture of the tanker was now superimposed next to the platform. "This is Black’s ultimate objective…."
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Post by LucianG on Apr 24, 2005 14:59:50 GMT -6
Lucian A diagram of a roughly circular sphere was displayed on the viewscreen. Major Lucian said, “This is Pangara Major Delta’s third moon, a small dead asteroid believed captured long ago. Much of the inside of this moon is hollow. This is, according to what the Cylons suggested in their database and borne out by our study, that the original small satellite moon was hit by a rogue asteroid many millions of yahrens ago. Both were destroyed in the impact, and some of the debris was broadcast into the system, which accounts for some of the occasional wandering asteroids in the Pangara system. Much of the debris remained in orbit around P.M. Delta, and eventually, due to the attractive forces of the larger bodies, some of the larger pieces attracted smaller pieces, and some of these larger pieces eventually came together—”
The display was changing as Lucian talked. Two of the larger pieces, each rotating slowly about its individual axis, slowly came together. When the images collided, this threw off many of the smaller pieces, but the larger pieces merged with gaps remaining between the pieces. More larger pieces did the same and smaller pieces filled some, but not all gaps.
“What results is a lot of imperfectly shaped pieces jammed together with lots of holes between them. Eventually the weight of the material above caused many of the rocks to fuse together, leaving us with this roughly spherical moon with all the little bumps and craters. The Cylons detected the cavities in the moon and took advantage of them. Now, this was 150 yahrens ago, but we believe their intent, based on the database, was to enlarge the connectors between the large cavities where they established their manufacturing and storage facilities. Due to the rich mineral content, this was great for the Cylons, giving them an ample supply of most of the needed solid raw materials, but none of the liquids or gasses. This explains their need for the gas refining platform and some of the smaller suspected but as yet unproven mining operations on the other planets and moons in the system.”
A Trooper’s hand shot up, “So this thing has some gravity, Sir? Seems to me that our electro-magnetic boots aren’t going to do much good attracting us to rock unless the Cylons have been kind enough to put plates down for us.” There was some nodding of the Troopers, and since he felt it was a good question, Brinfort only looked toward them to quiet the group rather than calling them down.
“Good points, Trooper. The moon is about 100 kilometers in diameter, so there is some, but very, very little gravity. In the large cavities, the Cylons planned to generate magnetic fields bringing the already low gravity to down to zero to allow the large ships to be built, serviced, whatever. Since the Cylons have to be able to operate there, we suspect that they may indeed use plates with similar electromagnetic or simple magnetic boots, or possibly even another gravity generating system, though we doubt the second due to the energy required for operation.”
“Sounds like the good thing about this is that inside the moon, we’ll be able to fly!” said a Trooper. There were a couple of high fives before Brinfort barked attention bringing the Troopers’ attentions back to the briefing. “I don’t know about ‘flying,’ Trooper, but it’ll be the closest thing possible for humans short of zero-g; however, unless you’re an expert gymnast, I’d advise against it, since the slightest miscalculation can lead to uncontrolled landings and serious injury or death. In addition, if you have to be in envirosuits, which is probable though not confirmed in the large shipyards, a bad landing or possibly even a good landing can end up tearing your suit, cracking your helmet, breaking your bones…well, you get the picture.”
On the screen, the diagram changed showing areas inside the moon. He proceeded to go over what was believed to be the layout of the moon.
Finishing the brief description of the perimeter areas, Lucian’s focus turned to the two areas near the center of the moon. “The primary objectives are Central Command and the main energizers….” * * * Droidarr “Would this be a good time to get a profile?" Masonic asked quietly as they listened to the briefing. “Somehow I don’t think that doc is gonna let you out of this one bro,” I told him. Major Lucian pointed to a new image on the board. “Before we get to the platform, our first objective is to knock out the sensors and relay transmitter that will be some distance from the orbital platform. I’d suggest using EM pulse torpedoes to make this appear like a natural phenomenon. Once they’re out of order, a laser blast can take them out permanently.” “When was the last time a mission ever went as planned?” Buck simply stated. “The platform orbits just below the top of the outer gas layer. There are numerous long tubes that drop into the layers below to pick up various gases. Don’t try to fly directly under this thing, because your Viper will be turned into garbage if you hit one of these collection tubes. They’re quite large, quite strong, and very long. In addition, while they're 'rigid,' they're somewhat flexible since they're so long and move around in the breezes below. Just because there's a gap one micron, doesn't mean that it will necessarily be there the next micron.” “I think he’s talking to you Droid” Masonic joked. They listened as the briefing continued on the hollow moon.
Finishing the brief description of the perimeter areas, Lucian’s focus turned to the two areas near the center of the moon. “The primary objectives are Central Command and the main energizers….” “Man, this just keeps getting better and better” I heard Buck muss as he slowly shook his head from side to side. I almost laughed, “Ya whine about not doing anything, now you whine about being on a mission.” Remind me to make sure I have two pistols and plenty of solium charges I thought to myself. If nothing else I could use the little charges as hand grenades, hand holds or any number of crazy things one could think of with such versatile little devices. Then again, a heavy laser would be nice, but how to get all that stuff into a viper cockpit….. maybe have to design a special operations pod which would strap to a fin…. * * * Lucian Following a few questions and answers, the Colonial Troopers were dismissed, but the Warriors, including those temporarily attached to the infantry were ordered to remain for the final briefing. After the Troopers, were gone, one of the Science officers opened the door to the connecting office on the Engineering side, and an officer in command blue entered pushing a covered cart. He was tall, had dark hair, and was sporting a grin despite his best efforts to conceal it. The long awaited paper in his pocket was the reason.
“For those who haven’t met him, this is Lieutenant, ahem, CAPTAIN Swensson, just promoted Bridge button pusher otherwise known as Tactical Firing officer. You can congratulate him after you return from your mission. He’s here to tell you a little about three little friends that will accompany you on your mission. Captain.”
Captain Swensson removed the cover to reveal.... * * * Lucian After completing the briefing, Lucian had double checked the preparations in Science and Engineering, and then made his way to Beta Bay to check out the two old Frodarian shuttles that were being prepped there. They were somewhat larger than the Callisto's shuttles, so the Tanker Transformation Team (as they'd dubbed themselves) was taking advantage of the size...and the seats. All the seats had been carefully removed and 30 out of the 40 were arranged in neat, evenly spaced rows. The attachments at the bottom of each were being modified by one of four teams of two Techs. Each team had a template, a plasma welder and a cart of miscellaneous plates. Looking at his chrono and seeing that there was just under a centar to launch, Lucian said, "Gataren, your teams have 40 centons to complete this work, and then loading must begin. Do we need to bring up another team?"
The Master Mechanic, a certified shuttle pilot scheduled to soon be piloting shuttle number 2, said, "No, Major. They'll be done with time to spare."
"Good. Please see to it." Lucian turned and began to check off the other equipment that was stacked nearby. * * * Full.
That was an understatement. The two old Frodarian shuttles could have contained more, but Lucian was concerned that it would be difficult to extract everything under the almost non-existant gravity on the orbital platform.
"All done, Major," said Gataren. "Permission to take a few centons before we depart, Sir?"
"Be back in ten, centons, Chief. We'll need to suit up and get ready for launch."
Lucian took in the scene for a few microns, but turned when he heard his name. Captain Swensson was approaching. Two Techs were following him with a cart.
"Major, do you have a little more room?"
The Major sighed as he said, "Let's see what we can do...."
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Post by LucianG on Apr 24, 2005 15:00:36 GMT -6
JustinB After the joint briefing had ended, I asked for all of my squadron to stay seated. I caught Major Brie before she left, shook her hand and wished her good luck on the mission. Once everyone was quiet I began my final briefing.
"You all know now what we are up against. It is a dangerous mission. We must do more than our best for the plan to succeed. If we don’t secure that facility, Gold is going to get wiped out and the fleet perishes. To all the vipers I am going to add two EMP torpedoes. They are to be used on the sensors and relay transmitters as well as any defences. Wingmen, you are to fire one only just in case something else pops up. Also don’t forget your envirosuits. I want all of you in my flight to draw another laser pistol from the armoury as well. More than likely there will be a few tin heads on the refinery. Flight Two under the command of Captain Kris will fly cover once we are in the refinery. If we need help we will call you in. Are there any questions?" * * * Brie After the science briefing Brie gave her team a little bit of time to finish whatever it was that they needed to finish. They were ordered to reassemble, the infantry included, in the Gold Squadron Ready Room one centar before launch. Since the briefing had taken less time than she had anticipated, Brie headed there with a few other people. She hoped that Agelastus was doing as promised and teaching Corporal Briseis how to fire a sidearm. Having untrained personnel in the infantry still didn’t feel right to Brie.
Noticing that Captain Lazant had taken a seat in a back corner, Brie approached him. “Mind if I join you?” she asked.
“Please, Major, have a seat,” Lazant replied. Brie sat down next to him. He was a man with very few friends, in fact he was hated by some of the people that Brie was closest to. Somehow, though, Brie had seen through a lot of the felgercarb and they had formed a friendship. “I was really honored that you picked me to accompany you on this trip.”
“I was a bit surprised that you volunteered,” Brie said truthfully. “Can I ask you why?”
Lazant looked slowly around the room, obviously deciding what to say. “You convinced me.”
“Me?”
“I went to the Gold Squadron meeting out of curiosity,” Lazant explained. “I knew a little bit about what was happening, but I hadn’t realized the gravity of the situation. As you talked, so willing to make the sacrifice yourself, I quickly reevaluated my life. I didn’t like what I saw. I was hoping that I might be able to make a change for the good.”
“Volunteering for a one-way mission is a pretty drastic way to make a change,” Brie observed.
“True. But I actually felt like I could really help you out with this one. Was it difficult to decide to include me?”
Brie laughed. “My original idea was that I was going to weed out all the negative responses, and the people who wanted to go but I didn’t think should. Then I was going to look through all of the other candidates carefully before making even one decision. But when I saw that you were interested, I contacted the Commander right away to get permission to include you, since officially you weren’t with Gold Squadron. Head of the Callisto training academy and fleet fencing champion, bringing you along was a pretty easy decision.”
“You never did have that fencing lesson,” Lazant pointed out.
“As soon as we get back,” Brie promised.
“It’s a date.” As soon as the word’s left Lazant’s mouth it was obvious that he regretted them. “I don’t mean a date, I meant...”
“I know what you meant,” Brie said. She found it amusing that Lazant was blushing.
“I heard your decision about Turner. I’m sorry.”
“Thanks,” Brie said. “No sense in denying it any longer.” She was quiet for a few microns, she didn’t really want to talk about having her missing husband declared dead. “So, are you nervous?”
“No, not nervous,” Lazant replied. “Maybe a little bit anxious. How about you?”
“I’ve never been more excited for a mission in my life,” Brie said honestly.
“You think we’ll make it back?”
Brie slowly shook her head. “I really don’t know.” * * * Charybdis I knew that Amy would be in the Gold squadron briefing. So, in my personal questio to speak with her before she left on this mission, I camped outside the door to the briefing room and waited... * * * Amy After the meeting had ended, I got up and headed to the door, my head swimming with details about the mission, about Artus, about...
I walked out the door into the hall, and looked up to see Charybdis leaning against the wall. He reacted when he saw me, and I knew he'd been waiting for me. How long had he stood out there?
I froze, like I'd been caught in a trap or something. Nowhere to run, though I wasn't sure I wanted to. * * * Charybdis I saw her as she came out of the briefing room. She looked very serious, I supposed they all did since they were facing a tough mission...a one way mission.
Was I right to do this to her now? I had to. If she did not return, I would never let myself live it down.
"Amy" I called her over, or more specifically, I moved over to her since she just about froze once she saw me.
"I've been trying to talk to you for awhile now," I said. "Didn't you get my messages?" I asked.
She looked a little nervous as she brushed some hair out of her way. "Umm, with the mission, I've been sort of busy," came her reply.
I guess she thought I was there to try and hold her back from the mission. That's what she always thought that I was trying to do. But this time, that was not the case.
I pulled her further away down the corridor. Not the best place to have this conversation, but trying times call for makeshift innovations...
"Amy, I know that Brie asked for volunteers for this mission. I'm not questioning your desire to go, if I could, I'd probably be out there myself. But I wanted to clear the air. Between us..." I noticed that she started listening a little more intently...
"Amy, Brie asked for Warriors who had no attachments and I realize that's probably why you chose to go on this mission. Look, I know it's lousy timing, but just for the record, I'm sorry about everything that has happened between us. I'm sorry that things got out of control and it got so bad. But I wanted to make up for it. I still can't stop thinking about you. And in case you had any doubts about how I feel about you, I wanted to give you at least one good reason as to having attachments back here aboard the Callisto..."
Amy wondered what I was saying given the uncertain look on her face. I cut to the heart of the matter.
"Amy, I love you. I always have. And that's why I want to ask you once again: will you take the seal with me?"
Her eyes opened wide as she heard the words come from my mouth...
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Post by LucianG on Apr 24, 2005 15:01:23 GMT -6
Amy I'm sure my eyes must have grown twice their normal size at the words Charybdis spoke! My mind flashed back to an earlier time, when such a thing seemed to be the obvious thing to do. So much had gone on since that time... was it still possible?
"Wow" I said, looking up and down the corridor at the warriors shuffling past, "you know how to distract a warrior... I mean, after all this time... I wish we'd had this conversation sooner, you know? I didn't think..."
It was hard to talk in the hallway, especially on a topic like this one. "Do you have some time? I have a little bit before I have to report, if you are free. Maybe it's best if we talk now. With this mission, waiting might not be the best thing to do." I laughed a little, and looked again at the passing warriors. "It's just this hallway isn't the best place to talk, you know?" I reached out to take his hand, and it felt good to hold it. * * * Charybdis Amy seemed calm, given the situation. She took my hand, and my whole body sort of shuddered at the feel of her smooth hand in mine. It had been a long time.
"Over here" I motioned to her and I led her down the corridor. Around the next bend was a supply room with cleaning supplies. At least we would have some privacy in there...I was almost shaking like a leaf on a planet-bound tree as I awaited what she would say next… * * * Amy "A supply room" I commented as the door shut behind us. I thought I'd glimpsed at least one semi-amused expression on a passing warriors face as he walked by. "Well, it seemes appropriate considering where things have been between us lately. Can't sink too much lower."
I found a box to sit on, and as I put my weight on it I suddenly sank in. Me, box and all went flat to the floor. "Well, maybe I can", I said from my undignified position. Charybdis reached down, concealing his own semi-amused expression, and as I took his hand I nearly pulled him down with me before he could get the leverage to pull me out. I had that flash of thought again, of the last time we'd discussed the seal. We ended up laughing and wrestling on the floor after I'd said yes.
"Graceless" I said. "Frackin' graceless!" I laughed through my embarrassment.
"With a mouth to match" Charybdis replied.
I looked up suddenly, then began to laugh again. "Frackin' right!" I replied. I looked at my ruffled up uniform and began to smooth it out. "What would people say if I walked out of here like this!" I laughed again, brushing strands of hair from my face as well. A silence began to stretch out between us, an unanswered question hanging there as well. * * * Charybdis I pulled Amy up and into my arms as she tried to straighten out her uniform. "I've always thought that you look good in...or out of uniform" i said and I pulled her close. "Amy, I never stopped loving you. I can't even explain what happened, but all I know is that I need you in my life. I can't think of going on without you."
Amy sort of chuckled, "and you're telling me this right before I go on a suicide mission?" It seemed weird, but, yup, that was the story of our relationship. Go figure.
It was like a fireworks display: hot and heated up one moment, then after the big explosion: nothing but silence.
I had hoped that the silence would be us together, forever.
"Amy, I'm sorry to have to put you in this position. With you leaving on this mission. I don't want you to go, you probably know that, but I couldn't let you go without telling you how I still feel. And how I still want you to be my wife..." I stared deeply into her eyes. The fire was still there. She was like a fire in my soul that burned and could not be extinguished. I really didn't know if she ever would be my wife, but she was a woman that I knew that I could never get over. I needed her like a body needs air to breathe. Without her nearby, I felt like I was choking.
I wondered what she would say... * * * JustinB As there were no questions I dismissed the Squadron with orders to report to the Beta Launch Bay in thirty microns. As I exited the briefing room, there was Rose waiting for me. "Is there something I could do for you Lieutenant?"
"Well Sir, if possible can I see you in your office?" she asked.
We walked to my office looking without a sideway glance. Once inside though, Rose embraced and kissed me as though she wouldn't see me again. As much as I appreciated I found it hard to commit to the emotion and Rose sensed that.
"What's wrong JustinB? Why aren't you being as loving as you were not that long ago?"
"Rose, I still feel the same about you, but we are about to head off on a mission. So once the briefings were over I am now the Commanding Officer of Black Squadron. I have to be focussed and so do you. Once we are back aboard, then I can be your lover once again. I hope you can understand that."
"Yes I can JustinB. For the record though, I Love you even when you are in your Warrior mode so to speak. Once we get back and we are on our way again you are going to have to make it up to me Big time."
With that she placed a kiss on my cheek which I returned on her lips. I grabbed what I needed and we headed to the armoury. Once there we checked out an extra laser pistol and some explosives. From there we made our way to beta launch bay and started to pre-flight our respective vipers. When I completed my pre-flight inspection and made sure the EMP torpedoes were secured properly, I donned my envirosuit. I climbed into my viper and waited for everyone to check in. * * * Amy I looked at Charybdis, running a full range of feelings.
"Right now" I said, "I feel like choking you." Charybdis's eyes bulged like I'd struck a nerve or something. Like I had choked him!
"There were times when I needed you to say those things" I continued. "I longed for you to say them. And I know, there were were times when if you would have tried, I would have slugged you just for coming around. Not the best formula, is it?" I smiled, but it quickly faded.
"But right now, right this very micron, it's the right words at the wrong time. How can I commit my life when very likely it's about to end? For me to say yes, to make plans, to assume in any way that I will be back, is like flying in the face of the Lords, just asking them to show me how foolish I am."
I glanced around for a place to sit, but figured maybe it was safer to stand. I ran a hand through my hair, trying to read Charybdis's expression, but like usual I couldn't really tell. Had he expected an answer like that? Had I even answered him? Not really, I suppose.
I reached out and took his hands, then slid my hands up to his shoulders. "Charybdis, I do love you too. I never stopped, even though I might have acted that way. If, somehow, someway, I make it back from this mission, I'd like to have this conversation again." My eyes grew watery, though I fought through the urge to start to cry. "I'm sorry I can't answer you any better, but the Lords might have something else in mind for me." My voice wavered as I spoke, and tears came. So much for my tough exterior! I wrapped my arms around him, and rested my head on his shoulder. * * * Charybdis She rested her head on my shoulders. It felt good. It had been a long time. She was honest and open and that's all I could have asked for at a time like this.
I stroker her hair. I never wanted to let her go, but duty called. I pulled myself away just a little while still holding her. "I promise you..we'll talk again. You can count on that." I pecked her on the lips. "I'll be here waiting for you. Now go kick some Cylon butt like I know you can, Captain!" I smiled. So did she. We embraced closer and kissed and then hugged tightly.
I never wanted to let her go, but this time, I knew I had to. You know what they say about letting things go...etc. etc. I just wanted her to know that I was here for her no matter what she decided. She deserved that…
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Post by LucianG on Apr 24, 2005 15:02:15 GMT -6
Amy "Yeah" I replied, "I can kick Cylon butt. Cause I can kick YOUR butt!" I smiled through my tears. I must look like such a wreck!! "And it follows" I continued, starting to back Charybdis up, "if I can kick your butt, Cylon butt is a piece of cake!"
I'd backed him up to a bunch of boxes, and I leaned in on him. "Amy", Charybdis said, "these boxes aren't too strong, remember?"
"Yeah, I remember" I replied with a hint of mischief in my voice. I suddenly put all my weight against him, and the boxes couldn't support us. With a crash he went down amidst the flattened cardboard, and with a scream of laughter I landed on top of him. "I don't know about you" I said, squaring myself nose to nose with him, "but I still have some time." * * * Charybdis "I don't know about you, but I still have some time" Amy said as she kissed me passionately.
My mind raced back to almost two yahrens ago, when I had proposed and she said yes. We were so deliriously happy and rolling about on the floor of my quarters.
She felt good. On one hand, she was very familiar and comfortable, but right then, she was also electric and exciting and fresh. What a woman!
I kissed her and caressed her body, "I think I can spare some time" I puffed as I drew her close to me again... * * * Amy With the pending mission and everything that was hanging over me, I suddenly felt the need to feel as human as I could, for what could be the last time in my life. I needed contact, flesh on flesh like I'd never felt the need before.
I pulled back from Charybdis, only to pull at my uniform top. It came up over my head in one motion, and then I was back close to him, pulling on his the same way. It came off, and I tossed it aside, then embraced him like I'd never held onto anyone before.
Why had we let so much time go to waste? No matter what the future held, at least we had these few microns... * * * JustinB After completing the final inspection of my Scarlett Class Viper, I entered the cockpit and put on my helmet. Seeing that the rest of the Squadron were in their vipers with the canopy closed I opened my comm. too the bridge.
"Core Control this Is Black Leader. Request permission to Launch Black Squadron."
"Core Control to all Black Squadron craft, Launch when ready." came the reply from the bridge.
I flipped the switches and hit my turbos and before I knew I was catapulted down the launch tube. The pressure forced me back into the seat. Microns later I was back where I belonged, in space. As soon as all the Black Squadron vipers were launched I pushed the scrambler on the comm. "Teams form up with your wingman and in your flights. From hear on in it is silent running until I say so. We want to take these tin heads by surprise. Ensign Droidarr, you stay close."
Without any delays and no mishaps on launching we were on our way to the target. * * * Charybdis White hot passion...those are about the words for it. But yet, even that was not able to do it justice.
Amy and I in a lover's embrace that could never be described with mere words. She was raging with the fire of a thousand suns!! As if she was using up every last bit of life force within her and she wanted to transfer it to me before she left on her mission. I had never seen her like this.
We collapsed sweaty and spent...clothes strewn about the supply room and everything thrown on the floor...at once, I almost regretted that she spent herself so much. She had the mission still waiting like a black hole ready to suck her in. Perhaps that's why she was so ready to give of herself, one last time...
The comm unit buzzed announcing that Black sqaudron had launched, the first phase of the mission to capture the dock and the tanker that Gold would use to go down to the base...frack, it was risky. And right in the middle of it would be Brie and Amy and the rest of my good friends.
Our eyes looked at the comm unit as it announced the news then we quickly locked our gazes on each other.
"It won't be long now" I said. "I know," came Amy's reply.
We just sat there staring at each other... * * * JustinB With both flights spread out, we were scanning a lot of space en-route to the refinery platform. We had yet to detect any cylon activity, but I knew that could change in an instant. Ensign Droidarr had so far stayed with me and held his position very well. I was impressed with this but I hoped he fared as well if we ran into cylons.
Just over a centar had passed when the refinery appeared on my scope. I sent a tightly beamed communication back to Callisto to inform her that we were about to engage the refinery platform. As we approached the adrenaline began to fill my veins. I longed for combat, just about as much as I longed for love.
"Black Squadron," I said breaking communication silence. "You know what to do so let’s get too work."
We were well within weapons range but we had not been engaged by the supposed defences.
"This is too easy," someone said over the comm.
"Cut the chatter and be on guard." I said. No sooner had I said so, all the defence system activated and started to target us. Swinging around as tight as I could, I locked onto the nearest target. As soon as I received the lock I launched one of my EMP torpedoes. It flew straight and true and incapacitated the target.
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Post by LucianG on Apr 24, 2005 15:03:02 GMT -6
Brie Captain Lazant was about the last person that most would have expected to sign up for a self-sacrificing mission. He cared too much about position and rank, about getting ahead, to be silly enough to volunteer for a trip where the odds were drastically against them. But he had discovered that he cared about something else, something that took him totally by surprise. He cared deeply about Major Brie.
He didn’t know if it was love. He had never taken enough time on any relationship to know what it felt like to be in love. All he knew was that he thought about her more than he should. He had never seriously entertained the thought of some sort of romantic relationship with her, he knew that her feelings for him were only of friendship and he would never do anything to damage that. He wouldn’t lose one of the few true friends he had ever had. But still, sometimes when he was drifting off to sleep, he allowed his mind to wander just a little bit into territory that he knew was forever off limits.
Now, sitting with her in the Gold Squadron Ready Room, Lazant felt for the first time in a long time like he belonged. In some ways he had discovered what he had been looking for all along. If he survived the mission, he would return a hero. If he died, he would die a hero. He owed it all to Brie, who believed in him enough to give him a chance. Maybe it was love after all.
“I told you why I volunteered,” he said at last. “Why did you?”
Brie smiled. She had been smiling a lot since she heard the mission plans. “Are you kidding? This mission was made for me. I’m totally convinced that this whole idea was conceived with me in mind.”
“Why do you say that?” Lazant asked.
“You know my history,” Brie explained. “I grew up with one purpose drilled into my brain, survival of the human race while getting rid of as many Cylons as possible. Dying in battle was the only honorable way to die. Living to an old age wasn’t acceptable. I never told this to anyone, but when I told one of my old instructors, from the orphanage where I grew up, that Turner and I were taking the seal he told me how disappointed he was in me. He said I was getting sidetracked, not fulfilling my duty to humanity.”
“That’s terrible!” Lazant exclaimed.
“He was right,” Brie said. “Taking the seal was the best and the worst thing that I ever did. When Turner died I almost lost everything myself, my career, my sanity, my own life. If Charybdis hadn’t stuck up for me and got me transferred to the Callisto...” Brie paused for a moment, realizing that she had gone off-track. She also knew that talking to Lazant about her longtime friendship with Charybdis probably wasn’t a good idea. “Since he knows my whole background, I’m sure that Commander Apollo knew that I would be the first one to volunteer. I have more yarhens of leadership experience than JustinB, plus it helps to be a little bit crazy. I’m exactly where I want to be in my career, it’s well known that I have no desire to move to the bridge, and I full well expect to someday die on a mission. So the risk involved doesn’t bother me. As I said, living to an old age isn’t acceptable. I guess I’m just more expendable than anyone from the ‘super-squadrons.”
“Super-squadrons?” Lazant repeated.
“Yeah, that’s how I think of the squadrons from the Galactica, especially Blue Squadron. You don’t see anyone asking them to go on a mission with no real plan for getting back. But I’m not going to waste my last couple of centars here thinking about how the staff of the Galactica thinks they’re superior to the Callisto’s staff. Having served on both I know where I would rather be.”
A comm message was sent into the Ready Room, informing them that Black Squadron had launched. “It’s only a matter of time, now,” Lazant remarked.
“Let’s just hope that they’re back safely, and soon,” Brie said. “If their mission doesn’t work, ours will never get off the ground, so to speak.”
Lazant smiled at Brie’s bad pun. If only circumstances were different, he probably wouldn’t even try to suppress the feelings that were growing inside him. * * * Expatkiwi Lt. Kiwi was silently muttering to himself while finishing up recalibrating one of the viper flight simulators down in the sim room. He had let it slip that his technical credentials, plus his qualifications as a test pilot, made him a better person than the current technical staff to maintain the simulator hardware and software - after the simulator he had used had fizzled out on him. And as a result, he had been 'requested' to take time off from Gold Squadron in order to bring the simsup to par. That 'temporary' assignment had now been made more-or-less permanent. Me and my big mouth, he thought. In addition to his simulator assignment, he had also been given an additional assignment from Core Command: to test fly repaired and upgraded viper and shuttles, then to recalibrate the flight simulators to take those new flight characteristics into account. Kiwi wished that he hadn't have been so good at the task. The brass up at Core Command said that since his expetise was of such high quality, he couldn't be risked flying normal combat patrol "for the time being". Frack!, he silently cursed. This really was not what he had intended. He hoped that somehow, the Core Command directive could be reversed and he would get back to the Squadron. He felt that he could do the Strike Wing more good there than here… * * * After a few more centons of fine-tuning the simulator, Kiwi emerged from beneath the viper cockpit mock-up and wiped his hands. Putting on a flight helmet, he stepped into the simulator and sat down in the 'cockpit'. Sealing the canopy, he commenced the diagnostic run with the new improvements. The latest batch of vipers from the foundry had included three principal enhancements that Kiwi had helped develop. First, there was an improved IFF (Identification Friend-or-Foe) sensor to complement the warbook. That would provide more definitive identification of 'bogies', plus provide more comprehensive scans of ships not in the warbook catalogue - and at long range too. The second improvement dealt with the turbo generators. To help facilitate keeping the laser generators active, an improved tie-in to the turboes should help keep the lasers fully charged for longer, but with an additional improvement to allow the laser generators to either enhance the turboes (if higher speed was necessary) or to supplement life-support should battle damage make it necessary. The best thing about this enhancement was that the new hardware was so compact, absolutely no outside modifications was needed to be made to the viper. The third improvement was in the targeting acquisition system to allow accurate fire at targets that had previously been beyond normal range - without compromising the rate of fire from the lasers. All three refinements had taken a considerable amount of research and finally, the prototypes had been cleared for operational useage. All that Kiwi had to do was to ensure that the simulators would be upgraded to take into account the enhanced systems so that the Strike Wing pilots could quickly be brought up to speed. After about twenty centons of simulated flying, Kiwi shut down the simulator and sighed with relief. The simulator had worked out satisfactory, and it had compared extremely well with the flight characteristics of the actual prototypes (which he, of course, had flight-tested). He was confident in the ability of the warriors of Gold and Black Squadron to quickly master the upgrades. Still, he hoped that he could be put back onto operational status - especially with one of the enhanced vipers... * * * Brie Brie sent a note to Skyler, since he would be in charge of Gold Squadron while she was on the mission. She asked him to request that Lt. Kiwi be reinstated to Gold Squadron. With Cylons in the area, they would need all the qualified pilots that they could get.
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Post by LucianG on Apr 24, 2005 15:03:52 GMT -6
Expatkiwi With nothing much else to do now that this shift wasofficially over for him, Lt. Kiwi wanted least of all to go to the Officers club. Being TDY to Test Piloting and simulator work was to him like being grounded and his sense of honor would not let him socialize with the Gold and Black squadron personnel while he was detached from operational duties. This self-imposed exile of his from the other pilots was (funilly enough) something that the other pilots did understand. He knew that they did appreciate his work and would say so to him in the sim room, or over the commlink when one of them pulled duty monitoring his test flights (all warriors usually had supplemental duties to their flying), but personnel on TDY had a 'reputation' for pulling soft-duty while others did the dirty work and as such, were not held in high esteem by the Strike Wing pilots who risked their lives every cycle. Kiwi knew that Gold Squadron did not think of him as a person who would avoid combat duty, but Kiwi did think of himself as not being where he should be: flying with his comrades. Therefore, he could not in good conscience socialize with them in the club. He put those thoughts out of his mind as he decided to work on the Warbook catalogue. The warbook was an extremely useful function in a viper in identification of space vessels, and in the scanning of ships not in the catalogue so that the Warbook could update itself. However, the refinements to the Warbook system - particularly in regards to the enhanced Identification Friend-or-Foe, minimised the risk of what the technical staff quaintly called 'clone craft' - that is: ships that superficially looked friendly, but were not. The enhanced warbook should be able to ascertain with a 98% reliability if craft listed as 'friendly' in the warbook, really was so or not. The commlink buzzed. Kiwi shut off the warbook diagnostic program and picked up the commlink. "Sim Room. Lt. Kiwi", he said. * * * Brie Although she knew that Skyler would take care of the official request, Brie wanted to make sure that Lt. Kiwi knew of her intentions to have him reassigned to Gold Squadron. Using the comm in the Ready Room, she contacted the Sim Room.
"Sim Room. Lt. Kiwi", replied a voice on the other end.
"Lieutenant, this is Major Brie. As you may or may not have heard, I'm off-ship in less than 2 centars, leaving Captain Skyler in charge. He'll be putting in a request to have you returned to Gold Squadron. I thought you'd want to know so you could get yourself prepared."
"Thand you, Ma'am," Kiwi said.
"Lieutenant," Brie continued, "I'm not 100% sure that the transfer will go through, and if it does, be prepared for some resistance. Whether or not you realize it, there are some people who think you have a bit of an attitude problem. Of course that's what got you assigned where you are to begin with. You're a good pilot, and I have no problem with any of this, but we all have to be able to trust those we're working with. Our lives depend on it." Brie knew that she was being a bit overdramatic, but she hoped her point was making it through. * * * Expatkiwi Kiwi was pleased that he would soon be back in Gold Squadron. He had no doubts that that was where he belonged. Still, he did pick up on Brie's observation that some persons thought that he had an attitude problem. He knew precisely where that had come from. Several sectars ago, he had formally asked Core Command to have him released from TDY to go back into operational duties. The reply had come back: denied, because he was too valuable where he was. Uncharacteristically (for Kiwi was a military man, and bucking the chain of command would normally be anathma to him), he had answered back to the duty officer that he was trained as a combat pilot, not as a chairborne warrior. That smug son-of-a-cylon came back at him and said that in his experience, good officers did as they were told and carried out their assignments without complaint. That insinuation that kiwi was therefore not a good officer really rankled and he muttered a curse at him as he left. The next thing he knew, he was verbally reprimanded for "conduct prejudicial to good order and discipline" and was told that he was to desist from any further attempts at transfer - if he wanted to retain his rank. Kiwi had gotten that message loud and clear, and from that centon on, he stove to excel himself at his technical duties. However, the damage had been done and he knew that thanks to his momentary loss of temper, he now had a black mark on his record. But now, that did not seem to matter. Major Brie had told him to get his things in order so that he can quickly get back to duty once the confirmation came in. Kiwi knew that if anyone could convince Core Command of the transfer necessity, Brie and Skyler would. Besides, Kiwi knew that the latest batch of vipers were now ready for operational use. The fact that he was the only warrior fully versed in the refinements would provide good ammunition for Brie to use... * * * Agelastus The Callisto’s target ranges were surprisingly cramped, and very formalistic in design. Targets at one end, shooters at the other. In many respects, it was about as useful an environment for combat training as a computer was to a daggit. Real combat training took place planet side when possible, or throughout every deck and level of the ship when not.
Still, a person had to have somewhere to learn which end of a gun was which before being let loose, I supposed.
I fumbled slightly as I replaced the energy clip of my laser pistol. Sloppy, that. Especially as my colleague had noticed.
“Been a while since you had to rely on that, eh sir?” Corporal Janneche said, a slight chuckle marring the gravity of her words. “Still, that wasn’t bad shooting. Not bad at all.”
“A range is easy, Corporal. A smoke filled corridor’s another matter,” I broke off, realized that I’d effectively been trying to teach a veteran how to, metaphorically, “suck eggs”. Eyeing her carefully though, I was surprised to see that she didn’t seem to mind.
Shifting topic, I asked, “How’s our new recruit coming along?”
“Fine sir,” and she gestured to the far end of the range. “Let’s go and see.”
At the far end of the line of shooting positions Briseis and Corporal Hecate seemed to be having an animated discussion, as Hecate pointed at various components of the pistol in Briseis hands. To one side stood Corporal Lannis, whom I’d approached for help in organizing this little training session – it had been he who’d brought the two female corporals along. I’d never met them before, but already they’d impressed me.
Worried me a little too. They’d brought some other items along with the pistol for Briseis, items that, assuming I’d identified them correctly, were about to make the Range a much....louder place. More like a battlefield, anyway.
As I walked along the line, I glanced up to study the range scores. Briseis had been shooting already, I could see. Then the score registered.
I winced. * * * Expatkiwi Kiwi decided to see if he could get some shooting practice in, so after drawing his sidearm out from the armory (his TDY assignments did not require it so it was in custody of the armorer), he headed over to the firing range. However, as he entered, he could see that the facility was in use. Kiwi thought about it for a micron, then shook his head. He would come back later. So, what was an off-duty warrior supposed to do for the next couple of centares? The O-club was out, the firing range was in use, there were no repaired vipers to joy-ride in, and he wasn't hungry. Shrugging, he walked over to the Arboretum, stopping back off at the armory to hand in his weapon. It was a fair distance, but Kiwi told himself that the walk would do him good. When he reached the arboretum, Kiwi headed straight for the place he enjoyed to be: the zero-gee node which was a natural by-product of the mulitple gravity fields used to keep things (and people) on the ground. Where the fields merge, nodes occur. Usually, battlestar design took full advantage of this phenomenom. One node was in the zero-gee lab, another was in a combat simulator, a couple of others were in areas not accessible to persons. The other node was here in the arboretum. It was an area about ten yards in diameter. Kiwi stepped over to the clearing where the node was, then gently jumped into it. Kiwi drifted within the node. Willing himself to relax, he decided to take a nap. His commlink was on, so he could be reached. Hopefully, by the time he awoke (assuming no interruptions from his commlink), the range will be available to use.
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Post by LucianG on Apr 24, 2005 15:04:50 GMT -6
Agelastus As I approached Briseis and the others, I knew we didn’t have much time left before we had to report for the mission. Idly I fingered the new rank tabs for my promotion to Lieutenant, notification of which had caught up with me just before we reached the range.
“How’s she doing Corporals?” I enquired.
“Fine sir,” Lannis replied. Hecate didn’t even bother looking up, intent as she was on Briseis. Lannis seemed to have something in the palm of his hand.
“We probably only have time for one more clip,” I said, nodding significantly at the range chronometer. Lannis just smiled as Briseis moved up to the firing line. She raised her laser for the first shot.....
I’d been expecting it, but the two flash-bangs detonating, following by the smoke grenade, still made me jump. Jump enough to miss the flare that went off near the target in a fairly good imitation of the energy discharge of a Cylon gun. I only caught its afterimage as I turned back towards the targets.
To my surprise Briseis was still up and shooting. Badly still, but....one of her shots had missed the target more than the others. It had hit almost exactly where the flare had gone off though, certainly within the range for a chest hit. I glanced over at the three infantry corporals, each of whom were suppressing grins. Janneche looked up from one of the monitors, one that was showing a breakdown of Briseis’ shots, their timing and their accuracy. I leaned over to see.
The flash-bangs and the smoke grenade didn’t seem to have affected her at all. And the flare had gone off just as she made her third shot. Her fourth had been aimed at the flare. The slightly longer than usual lag between the two shots proved it.
Hecate gestured, a thumbs up. “She’ll do.”
I coughed slightly as a wisp of smoke passed me. Overhead I could hear the scrubbers whining as they took on the increased load from the smoke-laden atmosphere. I could see some scorches in the paintwork that would have maintenance hopping. Maybe I should have put a stop to this when I realised what they were doing.....
“Busy as usual, I see, Captain Agelastus.” * * * I turned in surprise at the voice, as I hadn’t realized someone else had entered the Range. Perhaps the flash-bangs had been a little loud in a confined space such as this room. Then the identity of the person who owned those disapproving tones forced its’ way to the forefront of my mind. I turned to see Black Squadron’s own Captain Killjoy standing there.
Then the import of his words belatedly registered, pushing through my racing thoughts to surface like an unexpectedly beached sea-mammal.
“Captain?” I queried, warily. “That’s an odd jest sir.”
Killjoy grimaced. “No joke Captain. Here.”
I reached for the rank tabs he held in his outstretched right hand, my body acting before my brain had really caught up. This couldn’t be right! Two grades in only a few centars! Surprisingly, Killjoy seemed to take pity on my confusion.
“Your promotion too Lieutenant got caught up in an administrative snarl. Given that, Major Brie’s recommendation for your next promotion doesn’t quite give you an All-Fleets record. Quite.”
“The Major recommended me?” I was deeply surprised. My impression had been that the Major thought I was a little to “big for my boots”. I’d had no idea that she was contemplating another promotion so soon.....
As I snapped on the rank tabs the others in the room saluted. Even Killjoy, whose seniority would ordinarily garner him a salute from myself.
Around and behind me the smoke had cleared. Killjoy’s expression was odd. Forbidding but with the hint of a smile underneath it all.
“Unauthorized use of material, Captain? A good start but not surprising given your history.” That pulled me up short, the broadest allusion to my history yet. And his. “Still, you five don’t have time to clean it up now. You can do that after the mission.”
“Yes sir!” chorused from all five of us, as we followed him into the corridor. I lagged slightly, snatching up my black carryall and settling it onto my shoulder. As I hurried to catch up, I found that Killjoy had paused at a terminal. He fell into step beside me. The captain seemed to be building towards something.
“I don’t go on suicide missions,” he stated, quietly but emphatically.
“Neither do I. Do you have some specific concerns?” I replied, for the first time in yahrens speaking to Killjoy as an equal. I was curious as to what was behind this.
“Your record, Captain. It doesn’t inspire confidence,” he paused, strangely uncertain. I knew his links to the Sorayama were known to Command. I believed mine were not. The two of us were edging around the subject of our past links to each other and to the criminal element in the Fleet like a pair of daggits circling a rotten carcass. I didn’t want to take this any further.
“Killjoy. Look. How many times have I saved your life?”
“Twice.” He replied. So he’d realized that, had he......I wonder when?
“So don’t worry. This mission will give you plenty of chances to repay me, if that’s what you’re worried about. After all, I don’t go on “Suicide Missions” myself.” I chuckled lightly at what I assumed was my deliberate misreading of the topic of conversation.
Killjoy let the evasion, if evasion it was, pass as he pressed on with what I assumed was the other purpose of his appearance. He gestured to the group up ahead as we headed towards a transport that would take us down to the Ready room.
“I’m,” he paused, ”concerned at some of the personnel on this mission.”
“You mean Briseis.”
“Yes.” He continued. “She’s a tech, no combat experience. She’s almost certain to get killed, and she could get us killed with her. Agelastus, I hear her inclusion was your idea!”
“Her idea as much as mine. And you’re right that she could get us killed. On the other hand, you might want to think of her as a possible capstone in the hand.” I winked at Killjoy, perhaps taking him aback a little. “You know I always try to stack the deck – in life anyway, if not cards.”
“Stack the deck, eh?” A thought struck him, as he looked at my bag with greater interest. “One of several perhaps?”
“Your guess is as good as mine, Killjoy. I couldn’t possibly comment.”
“I still think this is unwise.” Ahead of us the group had disappeared. It looked like we’d have to wait for a second transport. “But the Major’s Okayed it. Just be aware, she’s your problem, not mine.”
“You think I don’t know that Killjoy.” I looked around. “Another corridor and another time Killjoy – who was the kid then?”
The pair of us continued on towards the Ready room in an uncomfortable silence. I shouldn’t have made that last comment, that last reply. It brought too many things back to mind.
Such as the fact that I still wasn’t certain if someone had tried to kill me or not. And that walking next to me was someone who might have as good a motive as any.
Just how much did Core Command actually know? * * * Charybdis The comm units were buzzing left and right. Amy's unit went off summoning all Gold squadron members to the ready room...my unit went off summoning bridge officers back to the bridge. It appeared that our time together was over, perhaps for good, since Amy was on the Gold squadron mission.
There were no words anymore. We had said it all with our bodies. I leaned over and game Amy a kiss. I started getting dressed to make my way back to the bridge and let Amy get ready for her mission...
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Post by LucianG on Apr 24, 2005 15:05:41 GMT -6
Expatkiwi The officer on duty at Core Command looked at an incoming communique from Gold Squadron Command. It was a request to have a detached officer reinstated to operational duties with the Strike Wing. The person was a viper pilot named Lt. Kiwi. The record showed that the Lieutenant had been detached from Gold Squadron and placed on TDY with the training directorate due to his technical knowledge of simulator hardware and software, plus had test-piloting credentials. The mixture of the two had provided the training directorate with a valuable personage in that Kiwi had proven able to test-fly updated vipers and tranfer the flight characteristics into the simulators with a high degree of accuracy. Looking further down the record at the personal comments, it seemed that Kiwi was overall a good offer, but had incurred the displeasure of Core Command two sectars ago when he had vehemently complained about his status. He had been given a verbal reprimand and told to desist. No problems had been reported since. The officer knew that Colonel Charybdis would need to review this request, due to the conflicting priorities of both the Training Directorate and the Strike Wing. He sighed, punched out a printout and had it relayed up to the colonel's in-box. * * * Charybdis "So the Lt. wants back in to Gold, huh? And Brie is the one requesting it?" I wondered. Kiwi was involved in a lot back a few sectons ago. It resulted in his formal reprimand and his getting sent to technical.
But when Brie requests something, it's usually not on a whim. I would run it by the Commander and if she OK's it, it was as good as done... * * * Expatkiwi "Colonel", a voice said behind Charybdis, "Can I have a word with you please?" Charybdis turned around and saw one of the Core Command Duty Staff Officers. His name was Flight Officer Hoxha. Charybdis knew Hoxha as a 'by the book' personality who had a rather smug opinion of himself. "Okay, Hoxha", Charybdis replied, "what is it?" "It's to do with an officer's transfer request. Lieutenant Kiwi", Hoxha ventured. Charybdis frowned. What did Hoxha have to do with this. "This request came from Gold Squadron Command, Flight Officer", Charybdis said, "so what has this got to do with you?" "Sir", Hoxha answered, "Lieutenant Kiwi has done an excellent job for the training directorate with both the maintenance and upgrading of the simulators, plus in his secondary role as a test pilot. He's more valuable where he is." "True", Charybdis answered, "but Major Brie would not have requested Kiwi's reinstatement unless it was important, and since the new batch of vipers that Kiwi has been test-flying have now been assigned to Gold, it makes sense for Kiwi to be there, seeing how they go in operations." Any other staff officer would leave it there, but Hoxha decided to press the issue further. "There's also the issue of Kiwi's attitude, Colonel", Hoxha continued, "It was because of his complaints about the simulators that got his assigned there in the first place, and not so long after that, he made it very clear to me what he thought of the assignment when he first asked to be returned to duty with Gold Squadron." Charybdis suddenly understood. Hoxha must have been the officer that Kiwi had bad-mouthed. Looks like Hoxha is not the type to forgive and forget. "How has the Lieutenant's performance been since then?", Charybdis asked gently, but with an undertone of menace. Hoxha hesitated, then replied, "Satisfactory, Colonel. That's why I think....", Hoxha stopped as Charybdis cut him off. "Any recommendation to the Commander that I make on this issue, Flight Officer Hoxha, will be made on the basis of balancing Gold Squadron's needs with the needs of the Training Directorate. We are short of officers with Kiwi's qualifications, but we are also short of operational viper pilots." "But...", Hoxha started to say. "That's enough, Hoxha," Charybdis coldly cut in, "I thank you for informing me about the Lieutenant's value to the training directorate, but the Commander will make the final call. Not you. You can return to your duties.” Hoxha wanted to say more, but the look on Charybdis' face made it clear that the subject was closed. As Hoxha returned to his console, Charybdis idly thought that perhaps Hoxha should have some TDY - in waste recycling - if he can't shake that vendetta of his. Still, he did have a point. That's why Commander Sheba needs to make the decision. * * * Expatkiwi The six latest additions to Gold Squadron's fighter manifest gleamed in the subdued lighting of the launch tubes. Freshly ferried over from the HEPHAESTUS foundry ship, the improved vipers had been certified for operational useage and now, fully fueled and armed, were readied for their first mission. The crew chief nodded in satisfaction at the new additions. He knew that Lt. Kiwi - who was primarilly responsible for the upgraded systems - had flight-tested them all and was fully satisfied with the enhancements. The flight sims had already been upgraded to take the new enhancements into account. The chief held Kiwi in high regard for his technical ability, as well as his skill in test-flying. It was truly a testament to the design of the viper that it could take quite a lot of upgrading without compromising it's ability to fly well and fight well. Since a fighter was primarilly a fuel tank with weapons, it's job was to not only get it's pilot to it's destination and back, but also to fight, be robust, manouverable and fast. So it never ceased to amaze the support crews that it could all come together so well in a ship like the viper. The chief must have wondered how the designer of this class of starfighter was told how to do the job. "Make it mean", he must have been told, "make it totally clear that this fighter has a right end and a wrong end. Make it totally clear to anyone or anything that being at the wrong end of it means that things are going badly for them. And if it means putting on spikes and other sharp-looking objects on it, then so be it. This is not a fighter designed for joyriding about the stars, it is a fighter designed to makes one's enemies miserable". As several of the technicians were painting the Gold Squadron crest on the vipers (just below the cockpit), the crew chief checked off once more the refinements. The improved IFF feature for the warbook was a smart move. Positive identification at a greater range would give a warrior more time to react. Also, the ability for the engines to enhance the firepower of the lasers made for a heavier punch, and with the refinements in the targeting acquisition system, at longer range too. All in all, this was something that the Warriors would love to use. * * * "Core Command acknowledges the six 'K' - series Viper variants operational", the duty officer on the bridge replied. "Thank you, Core Command", the Gold Squadron Crew Chief communicated, "Gold Squadron dispersal out." The duty officer idly wondered for a micron: why 'K'? Then she remembered that Lieutenant Kiwi was the principal technician and test pilot responsible for the latest series of upgrades on the viper. She wondered if she should mention this to Flight Officer Hoxha, knowing the animosity that he had towards Kiwi. True, the lieutenant should not have cursed Hoxha like he did, but Hoxha was not liked amongst the other staff officers in Core Command because of his smug self-serving attitude, and she privately agreed with Kiwi's none-too-subtle description of him. Anyway, the new vipers were ready for operational duty and if Kiwi's test data was accurate, these new vipers should prove most effective...
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Post by LucianG on Apr 24, 2005 15:06:43 GMT -6
Charybdis Attention Warriors:
After another spirited campaign, it is with pleasure that Core Command announces that for an unprecedented 5th term, Major Brie has been reelected to lead Gold squadron...
Her 5th term begins today.
Congratulations to all who participated... * * * Brie With a new term starting in Gold Squadron, I'd like to announce that Captain Skyler will continue as Gold Squadron Second-in-Command, and that Captain Amy is the new Gold Squadron Third Officer. * * * Charybdis The news had come in that Major Brie had won her 5th term as CO of Gold squadron. SHe had been in command a long time, but if the troops wanted here there, that's the most important thing. Of course, I also wondered what this upcoming mission meant. If it indeed was one way, there might not be much of Gold squadron to lead.
I went down the ready room and saw Brie in there. I had already seen on a monitor the assignments that she had made. Amy had been assigned Third Officer. I was happy for her.
Brie saw me peer in the door. "Hey," I called out. "Congratulations, Major! I see that you won't be joining us on the bridge at least for another yahren." I teased her about that. She had never wanted a career in management... * * * Expatkiwi In the arboretum, Lt. Kiwi was dozing while floating within the zero-gee node (formed as a consequence of overlapping artificial gravity fields cancelling each other out), when his message portion of his commlink beeped. Kiwi awoke, then reached over to check the message. So, Kiwi thought, Major Brie has retained Command of Gold Squadron. He was happy with that. Brie was a person who believed in two things: getting results and the welfare of her pilots. Looks like those desk warriors up in Core Command won't be happy that they did not succeed in kicking her upstairs. Being a victim of Core Command's wrath himself, he fully understood what pressures would have been exerted in order to get her assigned to Bridge duty. Kiwi also noticed that the message stated that Captain Skyer was being retained as XO and Captain Amy as the 'number three' in the squadron chain of command. Both were capable warriors and excellent pilots (and unlike Kiwi, had the sense to keep personal opinions to oneself). Kiwi sighed, then pocketed his commlink. He really liked dozing in the zero-gee node. It was more comfortable to sleep here as there were no pressure points. As he drifted back off to sleep, he idly wondered when his assignment back to Gold Squadron would become official. He knew that he had made a powerful enemy out of Core Command's Flight Officer Hoxha (when he bad-mouthed him), and he knew that Hoxha would not like him to go back into Gold Squadron, but he had faith in Brie, Skyler, and Colonel Charybdis. He was looking forward to flying strike missions again.... * * * Brie "Congratulations, Major! I see that you won't be joining us on the bridge at least for another yahren."
Brie grinned at her long-time friend. "The thought of losing the election and moving to the bridge had NOTHING to do with my accepting a suicide mission." Several people in the room turned and looked at Brie as she said that. "Correction. Alleged suicide mission. We're coming back." * * * Charybdis "We're coming back!" Brie declared emphatically.
A smile crossed my face. Determination, Brie certainly had it. I guess Amy did too. Perhaps that's why they were both the most important women in my life.
I did'nt see Amy in the ready room, but I'm sure she was probably on her way. It had been a little while since I left her in the supply room.
"By the way, I almost forgot, but orders to have Lt. Kiwi transferred back to active duty in Gold squadron will be coming through shortly. Apparently, the Commander thought that having Kiwi back under your control was a wise move. Look for it." Brie nodded back.
I took a good look at the Warriors assembled. Just waiting for word from Black squadron. I wondered which of them I will never see again... * * * Amy I was needed in the ready room, but after my 'conversation' with Charybdis I needed to stop off at the Gold barracks first. I straightened myself up as best I could, and after a quick look around to make sure I hadn't left anything behind, I exited the supply room and made the short trip to my locker at the barracks.
My mind was filled with many things. Talk of maybe taking the seal with Charybdis, even after everything that happened between us, weighed on me. There was a mission to complete, a mission by design to be almost uncompleteable. And then there was Artus. My heart sank to a level almost too much to endure each time my thoughts touched on him.
With all these things distracting me, I prepared for a quick shower, maybe my last if the mission lived up to it's billing. The shower felt good, the heat invigorating. I was in front of my mirror drying off when I thought I'd seen movement of some kind through the reflection behind me. I spun around, but saw nothing. It hadn't been much, maybe the suggestion of a shadow, but I wasn't really sure I'd seen anything. After another paranoid glace around, I continued drying off and changing into a clean uniform.
I passed the assignment board on the way out, and noticed the announcement of Major Brie's reelection. Great! She deserved it, and as far as I was concerned the job would be hers until she was ready to give it up. I couldn't see that day ever coming. With surprise I saw that I was the third officer now. Wow! With a bit of humor I thought that at least my parents would get a higher death benefit from me now that I held a higher position. The timing was pretty good!
I reached the ready room area in time to hear some good natured joking around going on. I thought I could hear the Major's voice. I smoothed back some strands of my still damp hair as I walked closer to see who else was around. * * * Skyler Skyler noticed someone approach out of the corner of his eye. It was Logan… With all that was going on with the mission and Brie, he had about forgotten about her. Changing the subject of the conversation he had been having with Thunderhawk he turned and started down the corridor, they fell into step behind him.
“Lt Logan, this is Lt. Thunderhawk.” Skyler paused… “He is getting ready to head off on Major Brie’s part of the mission.” The two Warriors exchanged greetings. “His wingman is Lt. Brik, real good Warrior. Until Big T here gets back, you are Brik’s new wing. I will contact him and let him know.
“Skyler, err Captain….” Thunderhawk broke in, glancing at his chronometer. “Sir, I need to go check out my new big honking space gun.”
Skyler stopped and turned to face him. “You take care of yourself big guy. I will see you when you get back, my treat in the O-Club.”
“That’s a deal sir…” as he turned to leave he stopped and looked Skyler in the eye. “Skyler, don’t worry, I will take care of her for you.” And with that he departed before Skyler could say anything.
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