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Post by LucianG on Nov 18, 2006 8:15:43 GMT -6
Charybdis The shuttle trip from the CQ was uneventful. I had said my goodbyes to Major Beullah and filled him in on our plans. He was doing a good job with what was handed to him.
Arien and I parted with tears in our eyes, but since we were rapidly approaching the fleet, we made plans to immediately get leave and head for the medicinal ship to tell my parents. Boy, will they have quite a shock to find that their only daughter is still alive! I anxiously awaited the moment when we would open the door to their cabin and they get a look at not only me, but who I was going to bring to them...Arien, little Arien, back from the dead.
I was looking forward to getting home...wherever that may be. I guess it's now the Callisto. I feel as comfortable on her as anywhere. But it will be nice getting to leave the ship for an extended time period and just relax with my family.
The shuttle docked and I immediately made my way to the bridge. Major Joey was there and handed control over to me. "Glad to have you back, sir" she said.
"Thank you, Major. Good to be back," I responded.
I wondered where everyone was. No sight of Major Lucian nor Commander Sheba.
I would wait until I heard something... * * * Lucian As he walked back onto the Bridge, Lucian was considering the possibilities. His orders were to mention this to no one. He was also ordered not to access the file, presumably to keep from tipping the saboteur that his or her actions were known. Considering the hunt for Lieutenant Killjoy, the fact that Killjoy had recently accessed ship's computer records by other than approved means, and the fact the Killjoy's own Viper was the only one that had reportedly been damaged, there was a chance that Killjoy could be behind this alteration.
Yes, this was indeed sabotage; someone had deliberately altered those two numbers to prevent the Callisto from jumping...or worse. With folder in hand, he saw that Colonel Charybdis was now in command on the Bridge, and that preparations for the jump were underway. Time was short.
"Colonel, welcome back, Sir," said Lucian.
"Good to be back aboard, Lucian. Major Joey wasn't very helpful with what Commander Sheba is doing or where she is. Can you enlighten me?" Charybdis asked.
"Sorry Colonel; however, I must contact her immediately, BEFORE we activate the jump sequence."
"Major," said Charybdis looking at him questioningly, "are you trying to tell me something?"
"Colonel Charybdis, I am under strict orders from the Commander. I REPEAT, I must contact Commander Sheba BEFORE we activate the jump sequence. I request immediate permission to locate her, Sir."
Lucian waited for the Colonel's response. * * * Charybdis It was very much not in character with Major Lucian to be acting strangely as he was a very serious officer.
I figured a lot must be happening onboard since I had left. It's amazing how much can happen in just a few centars.
I sensed Lucian's urgency. I had no choice. "Of course, Major. Find her now," I replied.
With that, he nodded and I thought I saw him breathe a sigh of relief... * * * Lucian On receiving permission, Lucian turned toward Lieutenant Aegina, several meters away, and said, “Lieutenant Aegina, where is she?”
Aegina turned toward Charybdis questioningly, but when Charybdis nodded assent, she replied, “She was going to Captain Skyler’s quarters.”
“Contact her and inform her that I am on the way. Also, give her this message, verbatim, ‘The Callisto must not enter the jump.’ I’ll be there shortly.”
Clutching the folder in his hand, he quickly exited the Bridge to looks of surprise and amusement. Once he was in the corridor, he began to run.
* * *
Three centons later, he rounded a corner at a high rate of speed—and dodged to avoid flattening another crewmember coming around the corner from the opposite direction. In the process of doing so, he twisted his ankle and went sprawling. Sliding into the wall of the corridor, he threw up his hands to avoid hitting his head. The folder flew out of his grasp and the papers inside went flying. Rising on his injured ankle, he looked up to see Commander Sheba picking up the papers, looking at the red circles.
“I am sorry about this, Commander, but I had to see you at once. The Callisto is in grave danger if we enter the jump, and due to your orders, I could not inform anyone.”
Standing in front of him, she said, “Sit, Major. Get your weight off your ankle before it gives and you go down even harder than the first time.” Keying her communicator, she said, “Commander Sheba to the Med Lab. We have an ankle injury in Corridor Alpha Four. Please dispatch a rolling chair and a Med Tech with assistance.” After receiving the response from Captain Holodoc, Sheba held up the papers and said, “Major, my instructions were for you not to access the ship’s computer, yet you must have done so in order to go through these so quickly. Explain.”
“No, Commander. I used my portable comp pad. It’s what I used sometimes on the O-9. I followed your instructions, Ma’am, but knowing how important this was, I ran through everything as quickly as I could. That’s why I’m here. Someone has sabotaged the jump calculations. If we follow this, the ship will be badly damaged, thrown into a much longer jump, or possibly even destroyed. We must not jump until this is corrected, and preferably, until after the saboteur is discovered. I have no suspects other than possibly Lieutenant Killjoy, though that is merely based on circumstantial evidence related to his recent actions.”
“Killjoy is not the saboteur, Major. I believe we will shortly discover that his situation is, if not resolved, at least on the path to resolution. No, Lucian, the saboteur is a Bridge officer.”
Sheba’s word’s slammed into his brain. “The saboteur is a Bridge officer.” He could not imagine that one of the Bridge crew would do such a thing, so he objected, “Commander, you must be mistaken. Surely no one on the Bridge would have done such a thing?”
She sat down in the corridor in front of him. “Lucian, it was a Bridge Officer. I know…because I did it.”
Lucian looked dumbfaced at the Commander. He could not believe his ears. First, to find that a Bridge Officer had placed the Callisto in grave danger was bad enough, but then to hear Commander Sheba admit to doing it herself—”
“Lucian, the jump calculation log you were checking was a fake. I copied the real one, modified the initial mass and vector input, but didn’t change the results. Then, I ordered you to check it to keep you occupied while we were resolving the other issues in which you were threatening to interfere. You see, there were a number of events that were ruses to ferret out a problem, and it was all on a need to know basis. I didn’t tell anyone because if someone wasn’t a good actor, the whole situation would have come undone without resolution. For your information, Major Brie is safe and is in Captain Skyler’s quarters at the moment. Also, the Callisto was never in any danger because the actual file was never touched. Without the computer, I didn’t think you’d be able to even discover the problem for quite some time. Congratulations on your skill doing that. I am very impressed.”
“Impressed, but not trusted,” he replied, with his head bowed. Looking back up, directly into her eyes, he said, “I try to be a good officer, Commander, but if I am out of the loop, even in a ‘need to know’ case, my duty may cause me to do something that runs counter to your desires. I apologize for any problems that I have caused, and I will, if you desire it, seek transfer to another ship when we rejoin the fleet.”
Before Sheba could reply, Captain Holodoc arrived and said, “Major, I do not what I’m going to do with you!” She began to check his ankle. Commander Sheba nodded to Lucian and said, “We will continue this discussion later. For now, we must leave this system and jump toward Pangara, which hopefully will be the next to last place we visit before we rejoin the fleet.”
* * *
When she arrived back on the Bridge, Colonel Charybdis reported, “Commander, the missile burned up in the star’s corona. We are with the CQ, and ready to jump. Did you resolve the situation with Major Lucian? He seemed very concerned about the jump.”
Sheba looked at the monitor as she entered a few words. A few microns later, she said, “The situation is resolved, for the most part. Begin the preparations to jump.” * * * Charybdis My personal comm unit buzzed and I quickly saw a secret code number attached to the incoming message. I knew exactly who it was: Sgt. Pell. She knew I was back onboard and she wanted to see me right away.
I had sort of been dreading this meeting. It was nice to get away from it all with my short trip to the CQ to see my sister, but now that I was back, well...
I couldn't put it off any longer. Brie's life was in danger and I had to find out what Pell had to say even though I knew what was probably going to happen by me going down to see her.
"Major Joey, you have the bridge." I quickly left for my secret rendezvous... * * *
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Post by LucianG on Nov 18, 2006 8:16:25 GMT -6
Stadia Stadia headed out of the cubicle she and Marcus now called home. She walked toward the o-club.
She wished Brie and the gang would unground her. She had rearranged the living quarters three times now. Marcus was totally confused everytime he entered.
Stadia entered the o-club to see a crowd. She wondered what was going on but figured she hadnt been ordered to attend so it was none of her business. She got her food, paid for it and left the o-club. * * * Brie Leaning against her door was a package. Brie picked it up without giving it much thought and entered her quarters. She put it down on her desk and used her comm to contact Commander Sheba. Although always busy, Sheba made the time to talk to Brie. “Major, are you okay?” Sheba asked.
Brie knew she was going to have to get used to that question. “Yes, Ma’am,” she replied. She took a deep breath. “Commander, I think it’s about time that we had Turner officially declared dead.” She shook slightly as she said it, but she didn’t cry. She had done that enough earlier on Skyler’s shoulder.
“Brie, are you sure about this? Maybe you should take some time to think it over,” Sheba suggested.
“I’ve taken enough time,” Brie said. “It’s been yarhens. You know as well as I do how the Cylons operate. Capture one, kill the other. Ensign Cal was the one they captured, there’s no way that they would have let Turner survive. He’s dead, I’ve been denying it for too long.”
“If that’s what you want me to do, Brie...” Sheba’s voice trailed off.
“Please,” Brie said. “And make it quick if you can. Major Brie out.”
Brie pulled up her own file on her computer and stared at the readout. One part she couldn’t take her eyes off of. “Marital status: Married. Spouse: Captain Turner. Missing in action. Disappeared while on a recon patrol.” Before her eyes she saw the words change. “Marital status: Widowed. Late spouse: Captain Turner: Presumed dead. Disappeared while on a recon patrol.” It was now official, Turner was dead.
Brie turned off her computer. She brushed her hair and left it down, something she didn’t do very often. The package that had been at her door caught her eye. She opened it and read the note that fell out. “Major Brie, thought you might want these back. Can you believe they never even searched Killjoy’s locker? Glad everything turned out okay. Kaylib.” Opening the package Brie took out two pictures. The first one was her only picture of her parents. Brie was three yarhens old when the photo was taken. They were killed soon after. The second likeness was of Brie and Turner, the day they were sealed. She stared at the picture for several centons. Taking another deep breath, she went to her safe and unlocked it. As she put the pictures inside her hand rubbed across another object that she pulled out of the safe. It was a bottle of ambrosia. She had bought it only a centar after Charybdis had told her that Turner was missing. Her plan had been to save it until the day he returned safely, and then share it with him. That wasn’t going to happen now. Brie left the room, taking the bottle with her. * * * Charybdis As I made my way past the barracks and officer's section to catch a lift down to the systems rooms where Pell would be waiting for me, I turned the corner and almost plastered into Major Brie! She almost dropped a bottle of ambrosia she was carrying.
It looked strange. Brie usually doesn't tote around drinks. Her eyes looked a bit red. She had been crying.
"Brie, are you OK?" I asked. I couldn't help but notice that with our busy lives, it seemed as if she and I had grown apart in some way. It didn't help that I had left Gold squadron several yahrens earlier and she was in command now. We didn't work that much together anymore.
Somehow, the most important things get left behind. For me and Brie, that was our close friendship.
I waited for her to speak... * * * Brie Brie hadn't ben expecting to see Charybdis, but it was obvious that he hadn't heard her "news." She didn't really want to talk to him at the moment. "Colonel," she said quickly, "I'm late for a meeting with Skyler. I'm fine. The Commander can fill you in on all the details." Brie hurried off, wondering if Charybdis had noticed that she was carrying a bottle of ambrosia. * * * Charybdis "The Commander can fill you in on all the details," Brie said quickly as she left the corridor leaving me standing there all by myself.
Something had happened alright and I was going to find out what it was, Pell or no Pell.
I turned around and headed back toward the bridge. I put out a call to find where Sheba was, only to find out that she had gone to her quarters for a short time.
I needed to talk with her to straighten all this out... * * * Lucian The experience of utter and complete failure had settled hard upon him. The experience with the loss of his parents and Mar-nee’s revelation, though very different in nature, were the only things that rivaled the emotional feeling.
Major Lucian sat on the bed in the Med Lab with his right foot propped up, wrapped in a cold pack. Already an hour into the jump toward Pangara, Lucian sat with his arms crossed, feeling weighted down by the loss of confidence that he had worked so hard to build over the yahrens. With the loss of Commander Sheba’s trust, he knew that he would be leaving the Callisto shortly after the Battlestar rejoined the fleet. He thought about the painkilling salve that Nurse Holodoc had used on this ankle and almost wished she had given him something stronger to just knock him out entirely. Never content to sit still for long periods, he pulled out his comp pad and began, very regretfully, composing his transfer request. * * *
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Post by LucianG on Nov 18, 2006 8:17:17 GMT -6
Brie Walking back down the hall, Brie found herself in front of Skyler’s door. She knocked and Skyler opened it. He immediately invited her in and offered her a seat. “I did it, Skyler,” she said before he had a chance to ask her how she was. “I had them declare Turner dead.”
“Why?” Skyler asked, although he wasn’t surprised.
“Because he is,” Brie replied matter-of-factly. “No sense in denying it anymore. Time to move on with my life. I’ve got big plans too.”
Skyler waited for several microns, expecting Brie to say more. When she didn’t he asked, “Care to share those plans with me?”
Brie smiled for the first time in centars. “That’s why I’m here,” she said. She pulled the bottle of ambrosia from behind her back. “This is my plan at the moment. I bought this the day Turner disappe...um, died, I was planning on sharing it with him if he ever returned. Since that’s obviously not going to happen there’s no use letting it age any longer. It’s probably already the oldest bottle on the Callisto.” She pulled the cork and took a long drink, then handed the bottle to Skyler. He put it to his lips but whether or not he actually drank any she couldn’t tell. He handed it back to her.
“How long has it been since you ate something?” Skyler asked.
“Centars,” Brie replied. “Should help me reach the desired effect a lot sooner, not to mention that I hardly ever drink so I have no tolerance.” She took another large gulp. “I ran into Charybdis in the hall. It was obvious that he hasn’t heard yet, although I doubt it will be too long until he finds out. He and Turner were good friends.” She took another drink, and offered Skyler the bottle once more. “He’ll probably put you on suicide watch, making sure I don’t try anything again. No reason to, though. I’m not going to, I promise.” She took the bottle back from Skyler. “I love Charybdis like a brother, but he sometimes treats me like I’m two yarhens old. I’m really not in the mood for that right now.” She took another swig from the bottle. “The last thing I expected when I woke up this morning was to officially become a widow today.” She took another drink and handed the bottle back to Skyler. “It was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made.”
“What.....Turner?” Skyler asked, not sure of what Brie meant.
“Oh, sorry,” Brie said, taking the bottle back. “I guess I changed subjects without letting you know. No, making you SIC. I would have anyway, even if Cain hadn’t gone on medical leave. You earned it a long time ago.”
“Thanks,” Skyler said. “I try to make you proud.”
Brie smiled again. “You do. I’m not sure exactly when you appointed yourself my protector, though. You know with anyone else that would drive me crazy, but with you, well, it’s nice to know that I have someone to watch my back.” She took another drink, put the bottle down, and sighed. “I don’t know how I’m going to do it tomorrow. How am I going to face everyone, see the pity of their faces...” Her voice trailed off as she started to cry again.
Skyler once again took her in his arms and held her close. “That’s what I’m here for, Brie. I’ll help you through this. I promise.” * * * Skyler Skyler sat beside Brie, holding her while she let go of her emotions, allowed herself to cry. As he had feared, she had let go of her hope that Turner was alive. It had to be the hardest decision of her life.
A few microns passed and Brie had regained some of her composer, and sat back, Skyler reached over and wiped a tear from her check. Brie reached up and took hold of his hand and smiled at him. "In case I haven't said it enough, thanks for everything."
"Brie, I am here for you. Anytime you need me, day or night. If you need and ear to listen, or a shoulder to cry on, I am here."
"I know you are Skyler, and it means more than you can ever know." Brie said as she smiled a weak smile at him. "Now I came here to get drunk, where is that bottle.
As Brie reached over and grabbed the bottle off the table, Skyler leaned over and placed his hand on top of hers and stopped her from picking it up. "Brie, as you said yourself, I am you self appointed protector, and I have been here, there are not any answers in the bottom of this bottle, or any of the others in the Fleet. If there are, I stopped before I found them, and trust me, I looked in enough of them."
"Its okay Skyler... It just for tonight. I needed to finish this part of my life before I move to the next, and I was saving this bottle to do just that. Not the outcome I had hoped for, but one I am ready to accept."
Skyler let his hand slide off hers as she picked up the bottle and took another gulp. Brie turned her body so she was leaning against Skyler and took his arm and pulled it around her like some invisible shield. Brie held the bottle up for Skyler, who took it and drank down several big gulps. It had been a while since he had really drunk, but he knew it wouldn't effect him as much as it would Brie, and in the morning, her head would be grateful for every little bit he did drink. "So, after this plan is finished' handing the bottle back " what's the next big plan on your list?" * * * Lucian Doc BKJ stood by Lucian’s bed. “Well, Major, Holodoc is going to put a new cold pack on that ankle, and then you are free to go. You’re to stay off your feet the rest of the cycle, and then report here for rehab beginning at 02:00 tomorrow.”
“Doc, can’t we do that before the start of First Shift? I have duties,” Lucian said. Despite the fact that he was in hot water with the Commander, he would faithfully continue to do his duties unless she relieved him.
That, unfortunately, happened far quicker than he would have dreamed. Doc’s next words cut deep. “Lucian, I’m sorry, but I thought you knew. Commander Sheba has asked that you be placed on medical leave for the next two cycles.”
* * *
Less than a centar later, he entered the O-Club. It was late in First Shift by this time, so there were a number of Warriors already there, especially those about to go on Second Shift. Despite the fact that the Callisto was in a jump, Warriors still had duties. Most Warriors, anyway. Sitting his crutches by the booth and propping his foot up on the bench, Lucian sat back and closed his eyes for a moment until he was interrupted by one of the regular servers.
“Major, what can I get you?” he asked. “Tonight, we’ve got—”
“Nothing to eat, thank you, Rill. Just bring me something to drink. Something strong.” Rill looked at Lucian in surprise, since he knew the Major usually only drank alcohol for toasts on special occasions. He was even more surprised when Lucian said, “No, ask Osh to make that something REALLY strong….” * * *
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Post by LucianG on Nov 18, 2006 8:17:57 GMT -6
Charybdis "Enter" came the voice from behind the door. I walked in at attention and saw the Commander sitting behind her desk in her quarters.
"Charybdis, how did your visit to the CQ go?" she asked innocently enough.
"Fine, Commander. Major Buellah is doing a great job. I'll have a report about the ship soon. But I came to ask about another situation."
Sheba could tell I was concerned. "And what situation would that be?" she responded.
"It's about Major Brie. We know the recent situation with her files...I feel something has happened."
Sheba realized that I should know too. She knew that Turner and I were good friends and that Brie and I had gone a long way back as well.
"Look at this, Charybdis. You need to see what Brie decided today."
I was unsure of what she was going to show me as I walked around to her side of the desk. There on the screen was Brie's file. It stuck out like a sore thumb. Major Brie - personal status: Widow. Spouse: Turner - Deceased.
My heart hit the floor. She had done it. She had finally done it. I hated to admit it, but it was about time. Deep down, I knew he was dead. Somehow. It had been too long and we had gone too far anyway. Even if he had survived whatever happened, there was no going back. I think that's what got me the most. If he had survived, had we left a man behind?
"Thank you, Commander." I said weakly. "I'm sorry, Charybdis," was all Sheba could say. "Brie will need some time."
So that's what was up with her. She had finally realized it was over.
I left Sheba's room and immediately went to my quarters which was nearby. Down in the bottom of my closet compartment I dug out a small box that had old photoscans. The one I liked the best was of me, Turner and Brie standing on some planet we had visited a long time ago. It was the only scan I had left of him. I remember long nights drinking in the O-clubs of various ships, mainly the Galactica's when we served onboard together. We flew many times alongside of each other.
I had known for a long time. There was no way he could be alive. I had accepted it, but I kept faith. Mainly for Brie's sake. She had had such a hard time. I didn't want to remember those dark days. She had almost lost it. Thank goodness that we didn't lose both of them.
Maybe Brie had turned a corner. I guess it was necessary. It was time to let go. I put the photoscan away and headed back for the bridge. Along the way, I opened up a secret scan which Sheba had given to me detailing all the actions that she knew about and that Lt. Hawke had participated in. It was a need to know basis and Sheba decided I finally needed to know. I stopped in my track! Lt. Hawke!!! So that's what it was. It wasn't Killjoy!
Pell!! THat thought immediately flashed through my mind. What was she going to think? Her work, if any of it had been done, was useless now. I was going to have to tell her about it. Might as well be now since she was already waiting for me.
I turned around again and headed down to the bowels of the ship... * * * Brie Brie turned her body so she was leaning against Skyler and took his arm and pulled it around her like some invisible shield. Brie held the bottle up for Skyler, who took it and drank down several big gulps. It had been a while since he had really drunk, but he knew it wouldn't effect him as much as it would Brie, and in the morning, her head would be grateful for every little bit he did drink. "So, after this plan is finished' handing the bottle back " what's the next big plan on your list?"
She had to admit to herself that she didn’t want to do anything than what she was doing. She was comfortable and she felt safe and protected. She didn’t feel like a squadron leader at the moment. “Well,” she said, looking away from Skyler, “I’m planning on resigning my commission.”
“What? Brie, you can’t do that, Gold Squadron...”
Brie started to laugh. It felt good, a centar ago she thought she would never laugh again. “Gotcha. No, nothing that drastic. I’m going to have to find Killjoy, he really put a lot on the line for me. Of course I threatened him with yarhens on the Prison Barge if he didn’t help.” She took another drink, finishing up the bottle. “Besides that I’m going to do my best to avoid Charybdis. I’m not a very good friend to him sometimes. I don’t know, maybe I should just get it over with. He and Turner were friends. I told you I saw him in the hall?” Skyler nodded. “I told him I was coming here. I wonder what he thought if he saw the bottle.” She laughed slightly again. She wanted nothing more at the moment to stay where she was, just stop time and sit with Skyler, but she had also just learned a very important lesson about moving forward. “Speaking of which, it’s empty now, one goal completed. I guess I should be going.” She tried to stand up, but the alcohol had taken more effect than she had expected and she had a difficult time.
“You’re not going anywhere,” Skyler said, catching her and helping her to sit down again. “You’re staying right here with me.”
“Okay,” she said, knowing she didn’t really have any other choice, and slightly grateful that she wasn't leaving yet afterall. * * * Skyler "Okay," she said, knowing she didn't really have any other choice, and slightly grateful that she wasn't leaving yet after all.
"Skyler, I don't.... em, would you....."
"What is it Brie?"
"I don't know... well I do know, I just don't know how to get it out."
"All you have to do is say it Brie."
"I don't know how you will take it..."
"Brie, remember, there is nothing you can say that will upset me, what is it?"
"Skyler, when I am with you, I can't believe I am saying this, I feel safe."
"You are safe Brie, I won't let anything happen to you."
"I know, but it goes beyond that kind of safe. Its, well... I don't know. Its hard to explain. Maybe in the morning I will be able to finds the words better." Brie snuggled back against Skyler. He placed his arm around her and she hugged it tight against her. She leaned her head back against his chest and her mind raced. The ambrosia was starting to catch up to her. She wanted to say so much, but didn't trust her brain to get the words right. Skyler held her hand, gently rubbing his thumb over the back of it, her head against his chest, the sound of his heart beating, slowly luring her into a deep sleep. The first one she had experienced in a while.
Centars later, Brie slowly opened her eyes and looked up into Skyler's eyes. Her mind was in a fog at this point. Everything seemed like a dream. She heard Skyler's voice as he slipped out from under her...
"Lets get you in to bed."
"Skyler, the walls are still moving a little, I think I will just stay on your couch."
"Yeah right, you on the couch, I wasn't raised that way."
"Okay, you win, now how do you suggest I get there, Fly? I sure can't walk in my current condition."
"I will help you." Skyler tried to help Brie up. She lost her balance and fell back onto the couch, dragging Skyler down with her.
"Whoops, that didn't go to well, did it?" Brie giggled...
"Could have been worse, at least you found the couch." Skyler stood back up and looked at Brie. "Looks like you are going to have to fly." Skyler reached down and place one arm around her the other under her knees and lifted her off the couch. Brie threw her arms around him and buried her face into his neck.
"Not so fast Skyler, remember the room is still moving..."
"Sorry Brie, I will take it easy."
Skyler carried her into the small room that served as his bed room. He gently place her on the bed and knelt down beside the bed. He helped her out of her Uniform Jacket, and boots. Brie laid back and placed her head on his pillow as Skyler pulled the covers up over her and tucked her in..
"I will be in the next room if you need anything, just call for me."
"I need you. Please stay in here, I don't want to be alone right now."
"Anything you want, let me grab a chair, okay?"
Brie nodded her head and Skyler went to get the chair from his desk. Just as he stepped through the door, Brie spoke in little more than a whisper, "I love you." Skyler stuck his head back through the door.
"Did you say something?"
Did he hear what she had said, did she really say it? For all she knew she was dreaming. "I just said 'thank you'."
"OK, be right back"
In less than a micron Skyler was back and placed the chair beside the bed and Brie took his hand and squeezed it before slowly drifting back off to sleep. * * *
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Post by LucianG on Nov 18, 2006 8:19:19 GMT -6
Brie Brie was having the best sleep she had enjoyed in a long time. It was like a tremendous weight had been lifted off of her shoulders. In her dreams she heard a voice. “So it’s official.” It was Turner.
Sometimes when she was having a problem, Turner would appear in Brie’s dreams, so she wasn’t surprised. In her dream she looked around the room and saw Skyler sleeping in the chair next to the bed. “What’s official?”
“I’m dead,” Turner said matter-of-factly. “You went ahead and did it. I’m actually surprised, I wasn’t sure you had it in you.” He sat down on the bed next to her, and even though it was a dream Brie felt a bit awkward. “I’m proud of you.”
“I always said that I had to be sure,” Brie stated. “When Hawke gave me the information about your final mission and Cal’s death...”
“So you’re sure?” Turner interrupted.
“Not really,” Brie said quietly. “But I can’t go on like this. You told me yourself when I dreamed you up before, it’s time to move on.”
“Because of him?” Turner asked, pointing at Skyler.
“No,” Brie said quickly. “Because of me. I couldn’t live like that anymore.”
“Oh.” Turner paused. “So, you’re ready to move on, but it has nothing to do with him.”
“His name is Skyler,” Brie pointed out, annoyed, “and he happens to be my Second-In-Command.”
“I know all that. I also know that you’re in love with him. I heard you say it, even if he didn’t.”
“I also said that I love Charybdis if you were paying attention,” Brie said. “There are a lot of different kinds of love, you know.”
Turner smiled. “Charybdis, huh?” He thought for a micron. “I have no problem with you ‘moving on,’ as you well know since we had that conversation more than once while I was alive. So why don’t you ‘move on’ with Charybdis? A nice bridge officer these days...”
“Charybdis and me?” Brie held back a laugh. “I don’t know if you realize it or not, but your good friend Charybdis prefers them, um, a little younger, and I happen to he older than he is. Plus I wouldn’t want to spoil a perfectly good friendship.”
“Okay,” Turner continued, “what about that guy from the academy? Lazant, I think his name is?”
“Lazant is a friend, and I’m his ONLY friend. I’m about the only one on this whole ship who will even give him the time of day.”
“Well, then, how about...”
“Stop,” Brie said, confused. “Why are you trying to fix me up with anybody?”
“I’m looking out for you, Brie,” Turner said gently. “I know you. I don’t care what you say, you’re falling for him.” He pointed at Skyler again. “You have to know it would never work.”
“Fine, I’ll humor you. Why wouldn’t it work?”
Turner chose his words carefully. “He’s a warrior, Brie. A pilot, just like I was. You want to go through all of it again, your heart stopping every time he leaves for a mission? Plus, you’re his CO, and he’s your SIC. Are you going to keep him off of missions because they’re too dangerous? Is he going to put someone else at risk to save you? Remember, my love, they wouldn’t even let you and me be in the same squadron!”
“That was different,” Brie said. “YOU were a pain in the...”
Turner cut her off. “You always said you’re a warrior first, anything else second. Said that to your whole squadron not too long ago.”
“I know that,” Brie said, frustrated. “And that’s the way I live.”
“Good,” was Turner’s reply. “Think over what I said. Listen, honey, just because I’m officially dead now doesn’t mean I won’t be keeping an eye on you. I love you Brie, I always will. See you in your dreams.”
“I love you too,” Brie said as he disappeared before her eyes.
When Brie realized that she was awake, she kept her eyes closed. She had a feeling that Skyler wasn’t sleeping. She had a lot to think about. She couldn’t help but wonder how her life had changed so drastically in just a matter of centars. She also couldn’t help wishing that she knew a sure-fire cure for a hangover. * * * Charybdis I turned the corner and saw the doorway down the dimly lit corridor. The doorway which Pell would be behind..waiting.
I was unsure of what I was going to do. I had to tell her that her information was not needed anymore. I was sure she wouldn't really care about that. She did her job and that was that. She would expect 'payment.'
I took a deep breath and punched the button on the door. It immediately slid open to reveal a very dark room, just as it was before when I was here to give Pell her assignment.
The door closed behind me and I could hear the lock engage. The lights came on but only at about half strength. I was a bit disoriented for a micron with the sudden light change until I searched the room and saw Pell leaning on the desktop of one of the large mainframe computers. What a sight met my eyes!!!
She was decked out in one of the sexiest civilian outfits I had ever seen. One that revealed quite a bit of skin in all the right places. My mind raced back to my days back on Caprica as a youngster. I remember one time when my older brother had stolen some photo scans of..let's say ladies who were a bit lower on the pole than socialators from Gemon! On Caprica, those type pictures only appeared in certain sections of certain types of establishments.
"Charybdis, finally, nice to have you back," she purred. She slinked over to me and put her arms around my neck. Once again, she planted her red hot lips on mine and kissed me passionately. "You'll find that I have some very interesting information for you about your Major Brie."
Time to nip it. "Yes, Pell, I'm afraid I have some information for you too. The situation has been taken care of. Whatever you've found, we will longer need."
I could tell she tensed up. "Well, Charybdis, you haven't even seen what I've found. How can you tell you won't need my information?" she asked. "It seems that Lt. killjoy is the one you need to find out a little more about. I caught him doing some very secretive things. Not to mention, you're doing some mighty secretive things yourself, aren't you, Charybdis?"
"My position on this battlestar gives me quite a leeway to act in what I deem necessary for the safety of our people and the security of this ship. I wanted you to find out some information and that was that." I tried to make it as official sounding as I could.
She wasn't buying. "Well, Charybdis, I still have done what you asked of me, I think in all fairness, you do what I am now asking of you," with that, she tightened her grip on my head and pulled me close to her face. She kissed me again. She sure knew how to arouse the fires in a man, I'll giver her that.
I reached up to grab her arms but I couldn't help myself. She was so beautiful, so willing. She pulled me over to the far corner of the room where she had set up a nice little area with a bed! Down we went tumbling together onto the soft mattress as we kissed each other. Once again, we started ripping off each other's clothing. Her eyes were like fire!
We lost ourselves in each other's embrace...... * * *
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Post by LucianG on Nov 18, 2006 8:19:51 GMT -6
Skyler Skyler sat looking at Brie as she slept. It was the most peaceful he had seen her in a long time. He studied every thing he could about her, the way her body rose and fell with each breath, every feature of her face, the way her hair looked. She was by far the most beautiful woman he had ever seen. He felt as if he was watching an Angel, no, Angels couldn't compare to her. If they did, there would be a line of Warriors trying to get into heaven, and he feared he would be at the front of it.
Her mouth moved a little, like she was talking but no sound escaped. She must be dreaming. He watched for any sign of pain or fear on her face, or other signs of a nightmare. He wanted to be there for her, to ease her pain, to comfort her. He was her protector after all. Out of all the moments in his life where he swelled with pride, Graduation from the Academy, winning a battle, all of those moments, and the hundreds like them combined could not give him a feeling that could equal what he felt when Brie called him that.
Glancing at the chrono on the night stand, Skyler saw that it was well past mid cycle of the next day. What had felt like a few centons had really been about 9 centars. What would people say if they saw a hung over Brie leaving Skyler's quarters at this time of day? His thoughts were interrupted by a change in the room. It was a subtle change, one most people wouldn't notice, but Brie's breathing had changed. She was waking up. Skyler quickly slumped his head over and closed his eyes. He didn't want her to think he had been up all night watching over her. Time ticked on, how much Skyler was unsure of but he knew he would have to quit pretending soon and 'wake' her up soon.
"Brie" he whispered ever so lightly, "are you awake?" * * * Brie "Brie" he whispered ever so lightly, "are you awake?"
Brie sat up and ran her fingers through her hair. “Did you say awake or alive?”
“I think I can see the answer to either one,” Skyler remarked. “How are you feeling?”
What a question. Her head was pounding, but the hangover was the least of it. Her mind was spinning. So much had happened, she was filled with conflicting feelings. She was still sad over having Turner declared dead, but she was more confused than anything. Had she actually admitted to herself that she was falling in love with Skyler? Was it true? She had always thought that he was attractive, but this was much more than a physical attraction. He had been there for her on what could have been one of the deepest darknesses of her life, and he had pulled her through. He had somehow touched her soul. “Better than I thought I would be,” she replied. “I told you I had no tolerance. Could I trouble you for a glass of water?”
“No trouble at all.” Skyler quickly got up and left the room for a moment.
Brie thought that maybe she had imagined it. Maybe, somehow, due to the ambrosia and the grief, she had misunderstood their connection. Skyler returned, and handed her a glass. Her hand touched his, it was like a bolt of electricity shot through her body. She hadn’t imagined it. She remembered the feeling from yarhens before, the day she first met Turner. She was falling for Skyler and falling hard. “Thanks.” She drank the water fast.
“Would you like more?” Skyler asked.
“No, thank you,” she replied. He took the glass and put it aside. “You must be sore, spending the night in a chair. That really wasn’t necessary.”
“Yes it was, and I’m fine. I’m just glad that I was able to be there for you.”
“Me too,” Brie said softly. “I guess it’s about time for me to start acting like a squadron leader again.” She looked at the chrono on the nightstand. “I didn’t realize that it was this late. I’ve got to try to figure out what the rest of those ‘big plans’ were.” She slipped her feet over the side of the bed and pulled on her boots. “I’m hoping that they’re not going to pull me off of active duty for a period of mourning or anything, but in case they decide to you’ve got to be ready. I think I’ll stop by the med lab, have a talk with Doc Bkj. She knows my history, and I want to make sure she doesn’t think I’m going to try to kill myself again. If I get a clean bill of health from her, then maybe I won’t have to worry about everyone else who knows my past thinking that I’m going crazy.”
“Are you still going to avoid Charybdis?” Skyler asked.
“I don’t know,” Brie replied. “He and I are overdue a long talk. I just don’t know whether or not he’ll believe me.” She stood and walked with Skyler into the other room. “Can I ask you one more favor?”
“You can ask me anything.”
“Can you check and see that no one is in the hall?” Brie asked. “This might look, well, you know what if might look like if anyone sees me leaving right now.” Skyler stepped towards the door but Brie stopped him. “Wait. Last night when I came here I had no strength of my own, but you had enough strength for both of us. I just wanted to let you know that I will be eternally grateful. I will never forget this, Skyler.”
“I would do anything in the world for you, Brie,” Skyler said tenderly. “Anything. I’m here for you, and I always will be.”
“I know.” Surprising herself, Brie pulled him into a hug. She needed to have his arms around her one last time before she went back to her normal life. Skyler held her tight. They stood like that for several microns. Using every last bit of strength she had, Brie pulled herself away. “Thanks again.”
Skyler looked out into the hall and saw that no one was coming. “Last night, you said that you had something you wanted to tell me,” he reminded her, “but you couldn’t get the words right. Do you remember what it was?”
Brie remembered that she had wanted to tell him that she loved him, but she knew that she could never say that. A warrior first, anything else comes second. “I wanted to say that you’re the best person that I know.” She gave him a kiss on the check then hurried out the door, not realizing that she had left her flight jacket behind. * * * Skyler Skyler stood there for several centons. He wasn't sure what just happened had really happened. He must have fallen asleep in the chair beside the bed. No, it happened, he could still feel Brie's warm breath on his cheek, the softness of her lips as they touched him.
Once he realized it wasn't a dream, he walked over and sat on the couch. His mind was a maelstrom of thoughts. The events of the last two days had rushed back to him. His feelings for Brie had changed. No, they had never changed, he had always felt the way he had, he could just never show it. Now, maybe he could....
"Skyler you are an idiot. Think about it, and try to use a portion of that lump you call a brain. She is your CO, how do you think that would effect your relationship."
Skyler stood up and walked into the bedroom and removed a fresh uniform from the wall locker.
"After Kellie you swore to never get involved again, then came Mara. Remember how that ended?
"She picked you as her SIC, because she trust you, now you want to destroy that trust. You are taking the events out of context. She has been through hell the last few cycles, and she comes to you for support, and gives you a peck on the cheek as a thank you, and you want to blow it out of proportion. What makes you think she feels the same way. IF she does, she would never tell you, but if you tell her, BAM!! there goes the trust, right out the launch tubes."
Skyler grabs a quick turbo shower and dresses.
"Think about this while you are at it. You are a Warrior, you will always be a Warrior, you can not change even if you could... you didn't for Kellie, you couldn't for Mara and Brie wouldn't want you to. You have already lived longer than most of your class at the academy. You go on every mission that comes up. What happens if you bought it on one of those missions? You saw how bad she was hurting last night. Imagine how much more she would hurt if she had to order you to do it, and you died? Do you want to cause her that kind of pain? Who would she turn too if you were gone? Just keep your mouth shut, at least you can still be around her, and more important be there for her. That is unless they find you talking to yourself, then you will be doped up on meds in a padded room playing with rubber blasters drooling on your nice new straight jacket." * * *
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Post by LucianG on Nov 18, 2006 8:22:03 GMT -6
Lucian Lieutenant Osh stepped away from the table for the second time. Major Lucian obviously had issues that he still didn't want to address, but with the increasing alcohol content in his bloodstream, maybe it wouldn't be that much longer. Osh looked over toward Rill who nodded as Osh sent a little hand signal. A centon later, Rill delivered the fourth glass to Lucian.
* * *
Major BatGal slid in to the seat opposite him. She stared at Lucian without saying a word, until he said, "Have a seat, Major." As he said this, he placed the third empty glass upside down on top of the other two, forming a small pyramid.
"I will, thank you," she replied. "Now, do you want to talk about it, or do I have to order Osh to shut the bar?"
"No, don't get on Osh. He's a great guy and he's pretty smart, too, though not as smart as he thinks he is in this case."
"What do you mean?" she asked.
He held up the glass and said, "The fluid in this glass is distinctly lighter in color than that contained in the first glass, and in addition, it doesn't taste nearly as harsh. Starting with the second glass, Osh started watering down my drinks. I would estimate 50% at leas--"
"Oh, come off it, Lucian," she interjected, "this isn't like you. You've got to tell me what is wrong, and we've got to get you to your quarters. Can you still walk?"
"No, but not because of inebriation. My crutches got knocked over, and I really don't feel like leaning over to pick them up. Besides, this pyramid still isn't anywhere close to being complete."
She set the crutches back in position, then said, "You stand me up for lunch with some sorry excuse about spending time in the Med Lab. Well, if you're going to keep sitting here, you're going to have to tell me what happened with your father's friend. And we're going to eat, too. That's an order, Major."
Lucian looked at her and smiled for what was probably the first time that cycle. * * * BatGal BatGal set the crutches back in position, then said, "You stand me up for lunch with some sorry excuse about spending time in the Med Lab. Well, if you're going to keep sitting here, you're going to have to tell me what happened with your father's friend. And we're going to eat, too. That's an order, Major."
Lucian looked at her and smiled for what was probably the first time that cycle.
BatGal smiled back. "See, now that's the Lucian we all know and love. Now sit back, relax, decide what you want to eat -- and tell me what's on your mind..." * * * Lucian "True enough, under normal circumstances. You see, Sudell was one of the unlucky ones who had lived through the Cylons' chemical attack on part of Caprica. He'd been a merchant who traded with our defense forces, so he lived right next to one of our bases. When the base was hit, so was Sudell and his family. Surprisingly, he lived, but he was the only one. There were only a few survivors of the chemical attacks that made it to the fleet, and those poor souls have been a drain on the Colonial Medical Services ever since."
BatGal nodded and said, "I heard that Sire Uri suggested that it would be better if we jettisoned the chem-esses, the chemical survivors, for the good of the fleet. Commander Adama told the jerk that the Cylons had taken our people's lives, and that Colonials would not allow them to take our dignity. Fortunately, the episode at Carillon took care of Uri, or I suspect he would have eventually personally thrown the chem-esses out with the refuse."
Lucian took a sip of the drink. "Ye-aah. The chemicals the Cylons used had long-term as well as short-term effects. Fortunately, it took a good bit of that stuff, so they didn't have nearly enough tankers to cover broad areas. They basically dumped them in some of the heavy population centers and on bases. Sudell got away, heavily scarred and barely breathing. By the time I found him, he was infirm and almost completely mentally incapacitated despite the fact that he was only in his sixties. The chemicals took his mind. He remembered next to nothing by the time I found him, but I was able to find out from the med staff that he had a son named Kaytoe on the Freighter Tupelov."
"I remember you mentioning him!" BatGal exclaimed. "You actually went to see him once, and you wouldn't talk about it when you returned. Garvett and I thought he must have been a real jerk since you seemed really unhappy after the trip and never mentioned him again."
"I'm getting to that. I paid a guy in records twenty cubits to get me what info he could, which ended up being pretty incomplete. Basically, Kaytoe had been at a triad camp when the attack occurred, or he'd have been dead with the rest of his family. He and his father were united after the first yahren in the fleet. He helped take care of the man, and eventually signed up to be a Warrior, but his eyes were evidently a bigger problem than mine are now, since technically, I can still fly...well, not right now, anyway."
BatGal nodded. Lucian wasn't going anywhere near a Viper in this condition, especially during a jump.
"Kaytoe didn't make the cut, so he played on one of the interfleet triad teams for a few yahrens until his eyes got the better of him there, too. Then, since he already had some experience working in his father's business while he was a teenager, he went to work in the Commissary Corps, making diamonds out of coal and similar miracles. He served on several ships over the yahrens, including the Icarus, the Tauran Wind, and the Rising Star, and at the time I was looking for him, he was the head Commissar aboard the Tupelov. The file I received said he was within just a few sectons of being my exact age, was sealed to a woman named Immonea, and had no children." He took another drink, draining the little glass, and he set it up to form a new leg of his little pyramid. * * * BatGal As Lucian continued his story, BatGal thought to herself, "Is this a classic case of survivor's guilt, or is it something even more complicated?" In any case, in regards to his research, Lucian had certainly done his homework.
"You call that pretty incomplete?" she asked. "It sounds like you had a pile of info on him. What more could you want?"
Lucian asnwered, "The devil, unfortunately, is in the details. I sent him a short note explaining who I was, and why I wanted to speak with him. He sent me a short reply, inviting me to the Tupelov, but he didn't add anything to what I already knew. A couple sectars later, I had another leave, so Garvett dropped me off on the Tupelov."
"Poor Garvett," said BatGal, remembering their friend. "Too bad he didn't stick to shuttles. He'd still be with us today. But some other poor Warrior would have probably been nailed by the Cylons in that attack on his patrol."
"To Garvett," said Lucian out loud, raising his cup of water, "a true Warrior."
"To Garvett, a true Warrior," was the response from BatGal and several other Warriors nearby who probably neither knew nor had ever even heard of him. * * *
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Post by LucianG on Nov 18, 2006 8:22:45 GMT -6
Lucian “Kaytoe met me on the Tupelov. He turned out to be a really nice, hard-working fellow. He set me up in a guest room, and showed me around the ship. He gave me a complete tour of his department, and told me about how they are always having to scrounge for things and make things work for other purposes. After about a sectar, he told me he had to get back to work for a while. As we parted, he handed me a copy of a data disc that had some information he felt I might find of interest. He said he’d taken the information from his personal computer pad that he had had at triad camp when the Cylons attacked. I could tell that it was probably the only tie he’d had to his past until he found his dad. We shook hands, and he said he would meet me for dinner later in the evening at the ship’s cafeteria, and would introduce me to his wife, Immonea. I told him I looked forward to it and meeting her. Little did I know that dinner would be when my life fell apart.”
Lucian took another sip from the cup. “I swear, they’re trying to protect me. If this water has any alcohol in it at all, I’d be shocked. At this point, the water tastes almost as bad as the alcohol. Yuck.”
“Lucian, what was on the disk?” BatGal asked.
“Oh, it was fascinating. There was so much information about our parents’ time in school together. Kaytoe’s mother had been creating a family history, and had interviewed numerous family members and friends. When Kaytoe created his disk to take to camp, he’d copied a number of additional files that he found much later. I spent the rest of the shift searching through the contents.”
“That evening, I dressed in my cadet’s uniform, and Kaytoe and I met in the Tupelov’s cafeteria, since there’s no restaurant on that ship. He said Immonea was getting off work late, so she’d be joining us later.
“We spent most of our time speaking of our parents and about some of the things I’d had time to read on the disk. He also told some funny stories that his father had told him about his time with my dad. I really don’t remember my dad having much a sense of humor, but when one is on a twenty yahren deep space mission that turns into a thirty-six yahren mission, the free spirited humor that Kaytoe described is probably one of the first things to go. He told about Sudell and dad climbing the outside of some glass building in one of the cities on Caprica using suction cups.”
“I vaguely remember people doing that at times when I was a kid,” said BatGal. “As long as they had permission—”
“One might get permission to climb the side of the building, but getting permission to paint a twelve story high, very buxom, very naked, young lady on the side of it was doubtful!”
“No way!” exclaimed BatGal.
“Yep! They were really ticked at some company executive for not giving them some job, so they decided to protest by painting this young lady on the side of the company building. Due to problems with perspective, they knew they’d never get it right, so they had another friend do an infrared projection of the young lady on the side of the building. They were wearing infrared goggles, so they basically painted by numbers, except they…uhhm…accentuated…certain features.”
“Did they get caught?” she asked, laughing.
“Yes, and the Tribune in charge of their case sentenced them to undo what they had done since they hadn’t been in trouble before. I understand they spent the better part of a secton on the scaffold outside that building, removing the paint.”
“A secton! What took them so long?”
“Deliberate stalling, I think. See, the girl was the daughter of the Sire who ran the company, so they kept her up there as long as they could, trimming around the outline, making her thinner and thinner...except for the buxom parts. Then, he told me about the time—”
“Okay, Lucian, you’re stalling. Get on with it. What happened?”
“I was sitting there speaking with Kaytoe, when suddenly, someone said, ‘Cadet Lucian, it is so nice to meet you. Welcome to the Tupelov.’ It was Mar-nee’. I think my heart stopped beating I was so shocked. I was speechless for a moment, and unsure of what to do or say. In that brief time, when I guess I debated taking her in my arms, Kaytoe stepped up, took her hand, kissed her, and said, ‘Lucian, this is Immonea, my love.’”
“‘My husband has told me everything he knows about you, Cadet Lucian, so I feel as if I’ve met you before,’ she said, warning me, I think, that she’d never told Kaytoe about meeting me aboard the Silver Star. She also told me to call her Mar-nee’, which is what everyone except her husband called her. She’d picked up the name as a child when her little brother couldn’t pronounce ‘Im-mone-nee-a’, but said something that sounded like Mar-nee’ instead. It stuck.”
Seeing her in front of me, my heart was racing, and I couldn’t think. In one fell swoop, I knew I couldn’t see my new friend anymore because I loved his wife more than I cared for him. I ended up excusing myself early on the grounds of feeling ill, which I really was. I knew if I stayed, I’d probably let it slip that I knew Mar-nee’, or even worse, that I was still desperately in love with her. To protect them, I left the Tupelov the next morning, and never saw either of them again, though I did send Kaytoe a thank you. He tried to get me to visit on several other occasions, but I always came up with an excuse as to why I couldn’t go. Now, when the Callisto rejoins the fleet, I just don't want to have to deal with all that again when Commander Sheba approves my request to transfer from the Callisto.”
He took another drink of the watered drink, waiting for his final words informing her of his decision to sink in.... * * * BatGal BatGal could not believe her ears. She picked up Lucian's glass and took a deep whiff of its contents.
Lucian asked, "What are you doing?"
She answered, "I'm just making sure that Osh didn't get into Cain's Nyquil stash and accidentally put it in your drink."
Lucian said, "Oh, no. It's pretty much pure water by now."
"Lucian," BatGal said in her 'I'm totally serious' voice. "What do you mean you've asked the Commander for a transfer???" * * * Lucian "Lucian," BatGal said in her 'I'm totally serious' voice. "What do you mean you've asked the Commander for a transfer???"
“Well, it’s sure not what I want, but as an officer, I had to give her the option,” he said. He told her about some of the recent events. Concluding, he said, “And in that case, she told me that it was on a ‘need to know basis.’ Lords! As Senior Flight Officer, I’m responsible for coordinating between the squadrons and making sure they are ready at all times. When I’ve got Warriors out of commission due to, well, whatever, I think that is as good a case for ‘need to know’ as any I can recall. BatGal, she just doesn’t trust me. I’ve let her down somehow, and I’m not sure if I really know how, but she’s been all over me recently. That, combined with these stupid feelings for Mar-nee’, which I thought I’d put out of my mind long ago—just the thought of rejoining the fleet has brought it all flooding back. I just feel awful. Then, to top it off, she’s relieved me for ‘medical purposes’ for a couple of cycles. And now, Osh is watering my drinks,” he said, displaying a quirky smile.
“Feeling sorry for yourself, perhaps?” she asked.
“Yeah, I guess, as much as I hate it, that would be it. I don’t have any remaining family, and because of my position, only a few close friends with whom I can share things. It just makes it tough, and then, finding out that Commander Sheba doesn’t trust me…”
“But do you think it’s to the point of having to leave the Callisto? We are your family here.”
“Believe me, I don’t want to leave, and when I get back on duty, I’m going to do everything in my power to change things, but in the end, it’s really up to Commander Sheba. She can choose to transfer me if she wishes. If she thinks it’s for the good of the Battlestar and the fleet, I don’t blame her a bit, but I thought I was a better officer than that. At least, I hoped I was.” * * *
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Post by LucianG on Nov 18, 2006 8:23:58 GMT -6
BatGal Now BatGal wondered if there was Nyquil in her own glass.
“Lucian,” she said sternly, “you have exactly one micron to cut out this felgercarb.”
He sat up a little straighter, slightly startled by the tone of her voice. He kept his eyes on his hands that were cupped around his now-empty glass.
“First of all,” she continued, “you are a senior officer. And a damn good warrior. Probably one of the best ever. That said, you know as well as I do that the Commander trusts you with the ship’s operations as if she were handling them entirely by herself. Did you even stop to think that maybe this “need-to-know” business might not have been of a business nature at all --- maybe it was something totally personal and confidential and had NOTHING AT ALL to do with operations?”
BatGal paused to take a breath. “I know for a fact that if I had a personal problem and went to the Commander for help, she would keep THAT on a “need-to-know” basis and not allow anyone else to know my situation.”
Lucian looked up at BatGal.
She softened a bit. “But of course, if I had any kind of problem, personal or otherwise, you know I would come to you first, like I always do. That’s a given." She shrugged. "And I’m glad you were able to tell me what’s been troubling you now, no matter how ludicrous the whole thing is.”
She looked at Lucian now, who let out a heavy sigh.
He said, “You're probably right. It could very well have been something of a personal nature and completely none of my ‘business’.” He laughed a little at his pun. Ooooooh! Was the room spinning??? He put his hand to his head.
Noticing this, BatGal said, “And as for Osh watering down your drinks --- I wouldn’t say that was because he doesn’t trust you. Let’s face it, you’re a lightweight. You know it. Osh knows it. We ALL know it. You get drunk on your caffeine tablets for cryin’ out loud!!! Don’t MAKE me remind you about that time when you were stuck in deep space for two cycles with nothing but those caffeine tabs!!!” They both laughed.
Finishing, she said, “Yeah, he’s protecting you. But that’s because he’s a responsible bartender, a good warrior and most of all, a good friend.” * * * Stargazor Stargazor Headed to the launch bay, his duties wore over and he needed to think, Somehow the launch bay was the only place he could rely let his mind go.
He stepped out of the elevator as it was completely down, he walked past some vipers, some engineers saw him walk by they wore whispering to one another but Stargazor din’d care.
As he came upon a Viper with an open cockpit he climbed in and shut the canopy. He closed his eyes and just sat there for a moment.
(Inside his mind) SUDDENLY SHE APEARED: The lady who always warned him appeared before Stargazor, but this time she had this sad look on her face, he shouted to her “Who are you”?
The lady came closer but doesn’t say anything she reaches out towards Stargazor who takes a step back. The lady again reaches out and this time caresses Stargazor’s. Stargazor drops to his knees and starts to cry the lady takes him in her arms on the ground whit his back to her. Stargazor again say’s “Who are you,… who…”, “Who am I”! His tears start to flow.
The Lady starts to cares the hair of Stargazor, her mouth doesn’t open yet he can here this angel like voice as she say’s “You are chosen”!
Stargazor is more puzzled now and say’s “Why”?
The Lady answers “Because you’re heart was pure”! “And you’re friends will need you soon”!
Stargazor say’s “Who am I”?
The Lady answers “You are the beginning, forget your past”! “Don’t be sad anymore, follow you’re heart”! “You are one with the stars, now go,…my son”!
A bright light blinds Stargazor and he awakens again inside the viper. This time he feels strong as if his energy is limitless. He opens his cockpit and climbs out and heads straight for the bridge … .
His eyes are deep blue and shine like a blue star. Peace is finnaly in his heart.
The engineers he passed early'er look astound as he again passes them. * * * Marcus I had just gotten off shift and headed back to our quarters. I went in and noticed Stadia had changed the place around again. I know she is going crazy not being on duty and having nothing to do. I hope she is put back on duty soon. I love her and hate seeing her like this.
Not seeing her in our quarters I got changed into my workout clothes and headed to the workout center. I figure I need to keep in shape if I am going to keep up with her. I smile as I think of her lovely face.
I arrived at the workout center and not too many people around right now. Good more I can get done. I started to work out and think about my life and how it started and where it was going. I knew one thing that Stadia would be forever apart of it no matter what happened from now on.
I started to also wonder what had happened to Amy and Artus. They seemed like they would make a nice couple. Oh well. I was not going to worry about it none of my business, but as there friend I was worried about them. I would check in on each of them latter and see how they were doing. * * * Artus Artus crawled out from under his Viper. Well that ought to do the trick, he thought to himself. Scratching his beard he realised he had been neglecting his personal hygene in favor of his work. Oh well, he thought once again, better take care of that now. He walked back to his quarters for a shower and a shave.
Halfway there he changed his mind. Why not do a little workout now? Might as well get out some proper sweat before taking a shower. So he headed over to the workout center.
As he walked in he saw Marcus sitting there.
"Hello Marcus! Haven't seen you in a while.." Artus said cheerfully.
"Oh hello Artus, you know I was just thinking about you..." was the reply Marcus gave him.
"Oh you liar, " Artus jested; "I bet you say that to all the girls. And speaking of girls, how has Stadia been treating you so far?" * * *
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Post by LucianG on Nov 18, 2006 8:24:44 GMT -6
Marcus Artus came in to the work out center and said "Hello Marcus! Haven't seen you in a while.." Artus said cheerfully.
"Oh hello Artus, you know I was just thinking about you..." was the reply Marcus gave him.
"Oh you liar," Artus jested; "I bet you say that to all the girls. And speaking of girls, how has Stadia been treating you so far?"
I replied to Artus with a smile on my face "No not all of them just the good looking ones."
"Stadia has been treating me great. We just got moved into the new quarters. I want to thank you again for being my best man at the sealing. You are the only person that would have fit the job." "Stadia is starting to go nuts with being grounded. I am hopping they unground her soon. How are you dealing with it?" "And how are you and Amy coming along?" * * * Artus "Oh, please, don't start about that," Artus said with a more sombre tone than usual; "all I know is that Amy wan'ts to be left alone. So I've been leaving her alone for as long as I can. But it's not such a big ship so we're bound to run into each other sometime. Plus we're in the same squadron. What I wouldn't give to fly a partol once in a while again.. But enough about me, you were going to tel me about your misery. Or lack of it." * * * Marcus I turned to Artus and said with a smile "Well Artus it has been great. Stadia and I have been getting along good and the married life is pretty good, as for the rest well that is between her and me. Not being able to do anything right now is getting to me as well as her. Trying to find something to do until we go on the next mission or even patrol is driving me nuts, well it gives us time to do more enjoyable things."
"Give Amy the time she needs and she may yet surprise you. You never know and if not there are others on board for you Artus. If it was meant to happen it will."
After getting done with my workout I turned back to Artus "Well Artus is has been fun but I am going to head back and get a turbo wash and some food. I will see you latter in the mess hall if you want to talk more." I got my bag and headed out of the workout center and for our quarters to get a wash and clean up before getting some food. * * * JustinB After spending time at the O'Club, I came back to my makeshift room/office. I took of my jacket and placed it on the chair. I had just lain down with some reports when I fell asleep.
Waking up I checked the time. I had slept for seven centars still in uniform. I picked up the reports which I had dropped while sleeping. As I sat up I ran through with what I had to do during the shift. First was the de-briefing with RaycerX, Randrius and brotherjoe. What I needed was some time off. I needed to wind down from my busy schedule. What annoyed me a little was I was pulling the slack created by Captain Kris. As 2IC, most of the work should have been done by her. But where she was I didn't know. I noted the following on my data-pad:
Remember to ask Major BatGal the whereabouts of Captain Kris. Also ask for a few days furlon.
With some furlon, I could concentrate on getting my relationship with Rose back on track. Hearing about Stadia's out of the blue sealing ceremony, made me want to take my relationship to Rose to the next stage. Rose was a wonderful woman and I wanted so badly to spend more time with her. But with what has been happening of late and the workload I hadn't found the time.
I went to my locker and pulled out a fresh uniform. Looking in my locker made me think. There wasn't one set of civilian clothes. Maybe I would never have any. I was and probably will be a warrior first in everything. If that was true, Rose will have to accept me for what I am. * * * BSGRose Rose was starting to get concerned about JustinB some. She hadn't seen him in awhile or heard anything from him for awhile for that matter. Rose hoped he wasn't hurt or avoiding her for something she may have done. She knew what it was like to be avoided by Hawke and didn't like the way that felt at all. Rose wanted her relationship with JustinB to work out for them.
Throughout her duty shift Rose had heard that JustinB was on the hunt for Killjoy and that there was some tension between the two of them, but wasn't sure what was going on there and hoped to be able to find out what was going on soon between them and get things settled. Rose wanted to be able to have some alone time with JustinB and at this rate it didn't look like that was going to happen for awhile yet.
Rose spent some time in the O'Club with Capt Kris and getting her caught up on several things. She figured it would help Kris out since she wasn't up to speed on things due to her spending time down in Med Lab for awhile due to the posioning from medication needed on a recent mission. While they were in the O'Club, Rose and Kris had fun just chatting about various things once they got the business at hand out of the way.
After awhile, Rose and Kris headed out of the O'Club and headed towards the female barracks for Black Squadron. Both were in need of some down time and needed to relax some. Rose knew from experience that spending time in Med Lab drained you and she knew Kris would get some needed rest once in her own bed. As they were walking along, Rose thought about checking JustinB's office to see if he was there working on some paperwork. "Kris," Rose says, "I just remember something I needed to check up on. I will catch up with you later." Kris smiled as though she had an idea on what Rose was going to check up on and replied, "alright. I will catch up with you later Rose."
Rose headed over towards JustinB office to see if he was there. She hoped he was or came across someone that knew where she would be able to find him. Along the way to JustinB's Office, Rose thought about her relationship so far with him. Rose knew that things would be a challenge for them both, but she was willing to do what she could to make their relationship work out for them. Walking as quickly as she could it didn't take Rose long to reach JustinB's office. Reaching JustinB's office or should she say make shift office. Rose quietly leaned against the door frame as she watched JustinB working on straightening up some. * * *
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