CHAPTER 21-u.c.

[LucianG]

CHAPTER 21—IN DARK SHADOWS

Note: This chapter is dedicated to the memory of Callisto member Don Johnson, aka Lieutenant Ursiaon, who was killed in a tragic accident on Friday, January 10th, 2003.
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Lucian

Into the gloom that was the Blasanick system, two shapes suddenly appeared only 0.3 microns apart. One was relatively short and elliptical, with the stocky powerplant at the rear. Numerous useless appendages scattered around the shape pointed out toward the stars. The other appeared longer and wider, but sleeker and more powerful. In the red glow of the Blasanick star, dimmed by the diffuse gas spread through the system, one close to the larger ship might have read “Callisto.”

* * *

On board the Battlestar, Commander Sheba saw that both the Callisto and the CQ had left the jump successfully and emerged into the Blasanick system.

“Commander, sensors are malfunctioning as expected,” said Lieutenant Aegina. “The radiation and the elemental hydrogen gas dispersed through this system are going to make it really difficult.”

“Thank you, Lieutenant. That is understood, but have the Mission Specialists remind our Warriors again before they launch on the missions,” Sheba replied. She turned to Lieutenant Colonel Charybdis and said, “It is time. Launch our teams. The long range survey and ‘Outer’ teams need to get their objectives, do their work, and return as soon as possible. We don’t want to spend one centar more in this system than we absolutely must."

* * *

Charybdis

"Aye, Commander."

The order was given. All launch teams were to launch when ready.

Flight Spec. Geenie came on the comm line and issued the final prep order, "All vipers and ships...transferring control. Launch when ready."

Here we go again...
* * *
JustinB
I was ready for escort duty, two centars before we arrived in the Blasanick System. As soon as I was ready, I made my way to the mess to grab a light meal. When I entered, I saw both Major BatGal and Captain Kris sitting down eating a meal.

"Major, Kris, It is really good to see you have both recovered from the side-effects of the Hexachlorinal Iodinazone shots," I said as I sat down next to them, "by sheer luck I am glad I was alright."

"No need to rub it in CAPTAIN," BatGal said with a half serious look, "but as you said, it is by sheer luck."

"I just hope your luck holds out while you are out there," Kris said, "from what we have been briefed about Blasanick, you are going to need it. Especially with a new Ensign on your wing."

After catching up on everything, BatGal turned and said to me, "JustinB, when the missions are complete things are going to happen in reference to Ensign Stargazor. Lieutenant Colonel Charybdis has made it known the court-martial will go ahead."

"I understand."

As I was about to leave to make the final preparations, Major BatGal said, "By the way JustinB, thanks for doing a good job while Kris and I were out of commission." I nodded and left.

I went to find Rose before I left, but i didn't have any luck. So when I found Ensign Killjoy instead, Killjoy and myself made our way to the beta launch bay. On arrival, I pointed out the viper assigned to Killjoy. Firstly I placed my helm on the seat. I then climbed down and checked the four ship-to-ship missiles. After doing so I waited for Ensign Killjoy to do the same, then motioned for him to join me.

"Ok, now our pre-flight is done lets wait for Lieutenants RaycerX and Randrius."
* * *
Randrius
Randrius's locker in the hangar ready room opened with a soft click. The locker was quite bare. He pulled his battered helm from the shelf, the old helm was dented, scatched, faded, and stained with countless substances. He donned it and slipped into his flight suit.
Several minutes later, Randrius emerged into hangar. He moved to his Viper and checked it over with an expert eye. He turned to JustinB, "When do we launch?"
* * *
JustinB
Several centons later, Randrius emerged into hangar. Not long after, RaycerX emerged into the launch bay. After both checking out their vipers, they come over to Killjoy and myself. Randrius turned to me and asked, "When do we launch?."

"We are scheduled to launch after both Silver Spar and Gold Squadrons launch. Once we are out there, we form in an extended line formation. Keep an eye on both pilots on either side of you. Should we encounter any cylons, DO NOT leave your wingman. You have all been briefed, now show me I didn't make a mistake in choosing you for this mission,"
With that Randrius and RaycerX went to their vipers.

Noticing Killjoy was a bit anxious, I placed my hand on his the shoulder and said, "Killjoy, if we find cylons we will be on an even battlefield. Keep your cool and remember your training, cause after this mission you need to be alive to buy the first round." This seemed to make Killjoy relax a little.

I made my way to my viper. Once in I placed on my helm and closed the canopy. Silver Spar Squadron had just been given the 'Launch When Ready' command. Soon it would be our turn. As soon as Gold Squadron had launched, I received permission to launch. I hit the turbos and within a matter microns I entered the Blasanick system with the rest of Black Squadron behind me.
* * *
Skyler
Skyler sat in his Viper as the Flight Crews maneuvered them into the tubes for launching. In a matter of microns they would be streaking through the system, on their way to a miserable chunk of rock on a top secret mission. The first time Skyler went on a "Top Secret" mission, he had been little more than a recruit. Fresh out of Infantry school. His friend Sarge had lined up the hand picked team and reported to the mission CO. The CO had asked them if they knew what a Top Secret Mission was? Sarge replied that it was the kind of mission where you get medals, but they send them to your loved ones. After the briefing Sheba had given, this mission would prove to offer them a chance to earn them. Geenie's voice shoke him from his thoughts...

"All vipers and ships...transferring control. Launch when ready."

"Meet you on the outside..." and with that comment Brie rocketed her Viper down the tube with Granfury right behind her.

"Thunderhawk, I think we are being left...." as Skyler and Thunderhawk kicked thier Starhounds down the tubes to fall into formation behind Brie.
* * *

[LucianG]

Thunderhawk
Time seemed to stand still as we waited for the order to launch. Thunderhawk kept thinking of all the variables they were about to face...sensor malfunctions, time being of the essense and another "chilly" atmosphere. Though this was Thunderhawk's first Top Secret mission, it seemed like an exciting challenge.

"Hey Thunderhawk....", Skyler's voice echoed through Thunderhawk's helmet. In Thunderhawk's mind came...."finally, lets get this show on the road !"
* * *
JustinB
Looking at my scanner, I figured we could only scan 500 metrons reliably, in either direction. Visually, it was just as the briefing said. Visibility will be very restricted.

"Ok, Black flight. In about one centon we will turn ninety degrees to port. Once we do, we will spread out a little further to increase our scanner range," I said.

"Seeing how much difficulty we are having in this system, I doubt if any cylons are here," Randrius said.

"Well, whatever the case may be I hope there are some cylons. I am in the right mood to blow the pogees out of some tin-heads," the new Ensign said.

"Black flight, turn ninety degrees to port, NOW" I ordered. As we did so I wondered what Rose was up to right now.
*******************************
After briefing the back-up flight, Lieutenant Rose went over her viper carefully. As she climbed into the viper she felt a sense of slight remorse. Rose wanted to see JustinB before he left for the mission. But as things go, something came up and by the time she finished, she found out that he had launched. Looking down the launch tube she said to herself, "He is going to have to make up for it after the mission."
*******************************
On another part of the Callisto, Ensign Stargazor entered Major BatGal's Office.

"Ensign Stargazor, reporting as ordered Ma'am."

"At ease Ensign. Due to you being grounded due to charges, during the mission you will be doing administrative duty. This means that you are at my disposal. Firstly, I need you to run these reports to Lieutenant Colonel Charybdis. Secondly and most importantly, You are ORDERED to NOT to go near either of the launch bays. Do I make myself clear."
Major BatGals said with authority.

"Yes Ma'am, I understand." replied Stargazor.
* * *
Charybdis
It is my pleasure to announce that Cadets Logan and Hatman have graduated from the Callisto's training academy and have been commissioned as an Ensign in the Colonial Military.

They will serve onboard the Battlestar Callisto. Ensign Logan will be assigned to Gold squadron.

Ensign Hatman's assignment will be forthcoming...
<Chorus of Welcomes!!!>
* * *
Ensign Hatman is hereby assigned to serve in Black squadron under Major BagGal.
* * *
Charybdis
Flt. Specialist Geenie turned and announced to Commander Sheba, "All vipers away, Commander," she then turned back around in her chair and began to monitor the systems checks on the readout.

I looked over at Sheba as she stared blankly into a video screen. She looked back over at me and said, "Colonel, it's going to be another long one. You might want to get some rest until something happens. It should be a few centars until they get to the planet."

"Aye, Commander." I replied. Free again. This kind of duty was killing me. I'd be set free from active duty, but right when I could relax, I'd get called back again. Oh well, maybe I could get some real rest this time. Besides, it was time for a turbowash and maybe even a little reading in my quarters. Nice and quiet, yes...

My thoughts went to Amy as I left the bridge. How angry she had been by being left out of the mission. But she was not cleared for flight. I knew I had gone by the book, but it hadn't made it any easier. How come those you love the most make it the hardest on you???
* * *
Lucian
Major Lucian paced on the bridge. He was keeping a close watch on flight status and was probably driving Geenie crazy, peering over her shoulder to check the latest word. Unfortunately, with the flights on short range communications only, there wasn't much in the way of news. Finally, he decided to go check on squadron flight status personally.

"I'm heading to Black Squadron office," he told Major Joey. "I want to make sure Major BatGal is feeling well after her reaction to the Hex-I and that the Black Squadron Warriors are ready for whatever might come next in this legume soup that is this system. Back in a little while."

Moments later, he was striding down the corridor....
* * *

[LucianG]

JustinB
The patrol was going smoothly. Ensign Killjoy seemed competent, while Lieutenants Randrius and RaycerX seem to be the same. Hitting the autopilot, I then stretched a little. Having not been in a cockpit for a while, I would gladly welcome some action.

I was about to disengage the autopilot when I saw something weird. I saw a group of blips intermittently.
"Anyone picking anything up on their scanners," I asked.

After receiving three 'Negatives', I thought I might have a malfunctioning scanner. I was about to make a course correction when, "Sir," it was Ensign Killjoy, "I to am picking up intermittent blips on my scanner directly in front, at extreme scanner range. But it is like whatever it is they are like ghosts or something." Hoping it was nothing I ordered the patrol to cautiously proceed forward.

"Keep your eyes open men, they are our most reliable tool for seeing the possible contacts."
* * *
I spread the patrol out a little further just in case. We were all now getting the intermittent blips. Kicking in my turbos, "Killjoy on me. Randrius and RaycerX, hold course and speed," I ordered. After fifteen microns on turbos, I released the turbo button.

"Looks like it is nothing at all, Captain," said Killjoy, "it looks like it was a ghost chase."

"Don't be so sure, Ensign Killjoy. There is something not quite right about all this. Lets hook up with Randrius and RaycerX and lets patrol another quadrant."

We laid in an intercept course to Randrius and RaycerX. The intermittent blips were now not so intermittent. "RaycerX, Randrius. There is definitely something behind you." I said.

"JustinB, I think you are just a little edgy. You need to, FRACK!! JustinB I nearly traded paint with a few cylon raiders." yelled Randrius.

From behind Randrius, more cylon raiders fired upon him and RaycerX.

In a few microns I finally was able to determine what we were up against. "Ok Black Flight. From what I can gather we have run smack into a cylon patrol. There appears to be nine ship all in groups of three. Lets kick some tin-heads, but stay with your wingman. I ordered.

When I had a few microns, I hit the auto-distress button and tried to raise the Callisto on a scrambled frequency. "Callisto, this is Black flight leader, we have run into a cylon patrol. I say again, this is Black One, we have engaged nine cylon raiders." I said calmly, "By the Lords of Kobol, I hope they get our message. Cause where there is raiders, there are Cylon baseships more often than enough."

**********************************

On the Callisto all was quiet, that was until Flt. Specialist Geenie, picked up a scrambled communication.
* * *
The fields were beautiful. THe sun was shining brightly in the noonday sky. Flowers were all around. I could feel the warmth on my skin. It felt so good to be off the ship. To feel the real weight of a planet's atmosphere and not the artificial grav unit on the Callisto.

I turned to see someone walking toward me across the field. It was a woman with long flowing hair. Her light colored dress flowed behind her in the wind. I moved toward her.

As I drew near, I could see it was Amy! Or at least someone who reminded me of her. I thought it was her. We came together and embraced with all the love I could muster. Her beauty and grace made my heart pound! I was in love with this woman!!!

As I held her and gazed into her beautiful face, our eyes met and danced in serene harmony with each other.

Her lips began to open to say something. I couldn't wait to hear what surely had to be a lyrical voice. As she began to speak, I could her her say...

"Alert! Alert! All pilots on standy! To your ready rooms! Cylons!!"

My eyes popped open and my room was bathed in a red light from the alert markers. Frack! Another broken sleep cycle. And Cylons? Did I hear right? We hadn't seen the Cylons in quite awhile now. I thought we were almost home, but I guess I was wrong.

I quickly donned my uniform and headed back to the bridge. I hope our Warriors out on patrol were alright. We definitely were not expecting Cylons...
* * *
Lucian
Lucian was visiting the Science Lab for an update on the sensor enhancements that Solon and Fallel were attempting. So far, from what he was hearing, it wasn’t going very well.

“The problem is that the radiation and this gaseous dust combine to basically reflect our any sensor probes back at us. Ordinarily, when we get that reflection, it means there is something there,” said Solon. He motioned and Fallel activated the program pictured on the monitor. “There, you see we get those readings but we don’t know if their real or just reflective ghosts. With the dispersed gas in this system, we can’t use visual observations to verify it either way. We’re trying to bounce a reading off of the CQ, but we can’t even get that yet. Let’s just hope there are no Cylons or any other nasties here to cause us trouble.”

“Yes, we’re trying to write an algorithm to clean this up, but it is very tedious and may lead nowhere. As soon as we have anything substantial to report, we will let—”

The comm unit buzzed and Lucian answered it in a rather annoyed tone, “Yes?” A frown crossed his face and he said, “I’ll be right there.”

Turning to Solon, he said, “Well, my friend, you didn’t hope hard enough. Report just came through that the Black Patrol has encountered Cylons. I don’t care how tedious it is, get that thing written fast, or we may be through.” He turned, exited the lab, and started to sprint toward the Bridge.
* * *
JustinB
After using the Inverse Manoeuvre, both Ensign Killjoy and I fired upon the three raiders that sneaked in behind us while trying to help Randrius and RaycerX.

"Sir, do you think the Callisto received our distress signal?" Killjoy asked anxiously.

"Ensign, whether they did or didn't, we must keep our minds on the job," I replied.

Locking on a missile on the lead raider, I fired. The first few microns of flight, it looked like the missile wasn't tracking the raider. Then suddenly, it turned towards the raiders and followed true to the intended target.

"One down, Killjoy you lock on the one on the left. I have got the one the right." I ordered.
*****************
Randrius and RaycerX were having just as much trouble.
They had three raiders behind them and closing. Just as they were about to pull the same manoeuvre JustinB and Killjoy had used when RaycerX got hit in the top engine.

"Frack, my high engine has been hit," yelled RaycerX.

"Ok, peel off to the right and hit your turbos. I will hit my brakes and try and break them up a little. I will then join on you."

RaycerX then peeled off to the right, while simultaneously Randrius hit the IM button slowing his viper. One raider followed RaycerX, while the other two split up when they went flying past a near stationary Randrius. Randrius then went to join up with RaycerX and in the process destroyed the raider following him.
*****************
On the Callisto, the four Black Squadron Warriors were bored to tears. Rose had just placed her head down when an Alert came over.
"Alert! Alert! All pilots on standby! To your ready rooms! Cylons!!"

Rose and the rest of the standby flight were in their vipers and had their cockpits closed in record time.

"Core Command, this is Standby Black Patrol 2, ready to receive co-ordinates and launch command."
* * *

[LucianG]

Brie
So far the Gold Squadron mission was going smoothly. Major Brie hadn’t flown with Lt. Granfury before, but it was obvious that he was a good pilot. As the planet ahead grew larger in her scanner she was overwhelmed by a feeling of dread. She hated planets, she much preferred the controlled environment of a battlestar. The debriefing information on this particular hostile planet didn’t change the way she felt. Although the mission itself was supposedly straightforward she knew better. There was no such thing as a routine mission.

Somewhere in the back of her mind Brie realized that this mission could be her last. Gold Squadron elections were coming up. If the members of the squadron that she loved so dearly decided that it was time for new leadership she would be moved up to the bridge. She couldn’t understand how Charybdis, Lucian, even Joey had made that move willingly. It was a move that she had no desire to make.

But none of that mattered at the moment. With a little bit of luck they would be finding the fleet soon. She didn’t understand why she felt that luck was something that they would soon run short of.
* * *
The planet appeared to be growing in size in front of Major Brie. She couldn’t even recall its name at the moment, if it even had a name. She ran a quick scan of the atmosphere, it was what they had expected. Low gravity, unbreathable air, frozen surface. She was glad that she had chosen Captain Skyler for this mission. He had become one of her most trusted squadron members, and also a good friend.

Taking a glance to the side Brie could see Lieutenant Granfury. He was her wing for the mission, Lieutenant Thunderhawk was Skyler’s. She quickly checked her envirosuit, she hoped the others were doing the same. They would need them to survive under these conditions.

Breaking through the atmosphere without any difficulty, it took Brie a micron to adjust to the low gravity of the planet. She was used to feeling like they were almost sucking her in, but not this time. She scanned the surface. “Major Brie to Captain Skyler,” she said into her comm.

“Skyler here.”

“Looks like we might be in luck,” Brie said. “We should be able to land not too far from target. Let’s just pick this thing up and get off this rock.”

“I couldn’t agree with you more,” Skyler could be heard saying.

Brie sent the landing coordinates to the other members of her party. She hoped that luck really was on their side for a change. Little did she know what Black Squadron had discovered on their scanners...
* * *
Amy
Cadet Dolet hustled down the hallway, heading for Lt. Colonel Charybdis’s quarters. Not the best of cadets, Dolet felt intimidated, even though his errand had nothing to do with his performance, or lack of one, as a warrior trainee. Since Lt. Amy was currently on mission stand-by, she had trusted Dolet to carry out the rest of the plans for a very important event.

He knocked on the door, and after a moment it slid open. Dolet could see the Lt. Colonel at his desk. “Yes cadet?” Charybdis asked.

Dolet took a nervous step into the room, and remained there. “I’ve taken care of the stuff Lt. Amy couldn’t get to. The words been spread, and the O club will be ready in time.”

“Thank you, cadet,” Charybdis replied. “Let Captain Holodoc know, and see if there’s anything else she needs done.”

“Yes sir,” Dolet said, starting to sweat despite this being an informal visit. Gratefully he left the room and was thankful as the door slid shut. Dolet immediately set out for the medical section, and in a micron or two he arrived. He peeked in, looking suspicious though he was trying his hardest not to. He spotted Jarrynn, and he quickly looked away, turning to find Holodoc standing right there. Dolet jumped, and dropped the papers he was carrying.

“Jumpy, aren’t we?” Holodoc asked, as Dolet scrambled to pick up the papers.

“I just came from the Lt. Colonel’s office,” Dolet said in a whisper. “Guess I can’t stand authority.”

“Makes it tough to be a warrior, if that’s the case,” Holodoc observed.

“You said it,” Dolet replied. “Look, I’ve finished everything Lt. Amy wanted me to do. The words been spread. I think it’ll be a hell of a party.” He looked sideways at Jarrynn.

“She doesn’t have a clue?” Holodoc reassured him. How about Captain Kris?”

“In the dark too. Is there anything else you need me to take care of? The big date is coming up fast.” Dolet found himself relaxing fast. It was so much easier talking to Holodoc.
* * *
Charybdis
I just couldn't figure out that Cadet Dolet. He seemed so jumpy. Not the best way for a Warrior to be.

I didn't know if holding a party was the best thing right now with quite a few Warriors out on a mission, but I guess after all we had been through, we needed some sort of happiness.

And, since the area of the O-club had been cleared out when most of the CQ people boarded their ship, it was also nice to reclaim the area where our people could get a drink, even if it was reconstituted mush out of the water that we had collected recently.

As I sat at my desk checking on the duty rosters for all the ship's personnel, I just got too tired to continue. My thoughts turned to Arien. She had insisted that she go with her people on the CQ. I had urged her to consider moving into my quarters so we could share time together trying to pick up 24 yahrens of lost time, but she was adamant that she stay true to her new "family."

I guess I couldn't blame her. She only knew those people. Her true blood family was lost to her. We had to start all over now...

I ripped off my uniform and hopped into my bed. It felt good. Cool to the touch and very comfy. I soon drifted off to sleep...
* * *
Holodoc
Holodoc couldn't help but smile a little at seeing Cadet Dolet a little nerves & then begin to relax a little after being there a little while. She knew that this surprise party would do some good for both Jarrynn & Kris. Holodoc knew that it had been awhile since every one had any fun of any sort & the surprise party was just the thing. Plus it would be a good change of pace & not have to be in MedLab all the time, as it had seemed over the past few weeks. Now all she had to do was figure out a way to get Jarrynn down to the O'Club when the time came & her not figure out what was going on during that time.

"Cadet Dolet, I will take care of the rest. The only thing now is to figure out how to get both Jarrynn & Kris to the O'Club without either one of them knowing what is going on before we want them to know," Holodoc says. Dolet nodds & turns to head on out of MedLab. Holodoc headed over to where Jarrynn was working & as she walked towards Jarrynn, Holodoc thought about how she could get both Kris & Jarrynn to the O'Club for the surprise party without either one of them catching on to what was being planned for them. About half way to where Jarrynn was working, Holodoc had an idea that she hoped would work & decided to go with her idea.

Walking up to Jarrynn, Holodoc places her hand on Jarrynn's shoulder. Jarrynn turned to see her friend Holodoc & smiles. "Jarrynn, I thought that we could get together one night for a girls night out & have a little fun. I was also thinking that we could get Kris to join us as well," Holodoc says.
* * *

[LucianG]

Amy
Cadet Dolet walked into the O-Club and he stood awestruck. In a very short period of time the club had been transformed into the headquarters for a birthday celebration! Streamers hung from the ceiling, and there were actually balloons hanging as well. A big sign on one wall proclaimed birthday wishes for the guests of honor, and the room was beginning to fill with party goers.

"Where did you guys get balloons?" Dolet asked one of the volunteers.

"You'd be amazed" he replied. "Look at the cake."

"Cake!" Dolet exclaimed. In these days of dwindling supplies, he had thought a cake would be out of the question. He walked up to it, and the chef who was putting the finishing touches on it. "How did you..?" Dolet began.

"I'm afraid it may look better than it tastes, but not bad considering what I have left to work with!" the chef said with some measure of pride. "So, when will the guests of honor arrive?"

"Captain Holodoc has it covered" Dolet replied. "At least I hope so. They should be here soon if all goes well."

One of the warriors stringing balloons jumped from halfway down the ladder, hitting the floor with a big thud.

"Hey you!" the chef cried out. "Careful! You want this cake to fall or something?" The warrior looked over sheepishly. "Sorry", he said. Another warrior chimed in: "With the way you cook, it's amazing it's standing at all!"
* * *
Brie
While searching for Lt. Amy on Level 5, Brie had made a discovery in one of the storage closets. She hadn't mentioned it to anyone, she was waiting for the right occasion. Before leaving for her mission, she had made arrangements for her discovery to be sent to the novayarhen party for Kris and Jarrynn. She hoped that they would enjoy it. It was several cases of ten yarhen old ambrosia. It wasn't quite the stuff that some people remembered from the colonies, but it was better than the watered-down stuff that they were currently drinking.

Happy Birthday Kris and Jarrynn!
* * *
Charybdis
Happy novayahren!!!!!!

The mood was festive and with that new (old) ambrosia floating around, I wondered if anyone would be able to fight the Cylons!!!!
* * *
Lucian
Since he was on duty and very busy, Lucian wasn't able to make it to the Officers' Club for the party. He was quite disappointed about that, but duty, especially in potentially dangerous areas, had to come first. Still, he sent a special note:

"Captain Kris and Nurse Jarrynn:

HAPPY BIRTHDAY! My thoughts are with you both, even if I'm not. Have a great time.

Major Lucian"
* * *
Kris
Thank you guys so much for remembering... and I feel so horrible as I have been called away for personal reasons and have not been as active. Thank you again so much!!! This has truly touched my heart and I know that you all are definately my dear friends. Hopefully soon after this week I will be joining back in. I have to study for my final to be a travel agent for my certification for my new job. =) So please just bear with me a little longer. Jarrynn is doing good too. She is away on business... lol
Thank you again so much!
Kristi
* * *
Brie
Commander Sheba called Lieutenant Colonel Charybdis into her office and closed the door. "Lieutenant Colonel," she said seriously, "I have some news for you."

"What is it?" asked Charybdis, slightly worried by her tone.

"A couple of sectars ago," Sheba continued, "there was a nomination for a promotion. The members of Core Command unanimously agreed, although it was decided to wait until the Gold elections to make it official. Congratulations on your promation, Charybdis, you are now a full Colonel."

****

Please join me in congratulating Colonel Charybdis on a job well done!
* * *
JustinB
Charybdis Sir,
Congratulations on your promotion to Colonel.

Captain JustinB
* * *
Charybdis
Oh my!!!! I stood stunned by Sheba's words. Full Colonel. Full Colonel!!!

A long time had I dreamed of rising near the top of the Colonial ranks. It had been a long hard road. Making my way through the Academy onboard the Galactica. Making the rank of Lieutenant. Then, out of nowhere came the Callisto and the chance to lead the newly formed Gold squadron. Along with it came promotion to Captain.

Then after a yahren, making the move to the bridge and receiving my commission as Major. 2 yahrens as Lt. Colonel and fully expecting to stay that way for awhile longer but...

I can say that this was totally unexpected and quite a surprise!

"Commander, I accept the commission and I am proud to serve under your Command onboard the Callisto," I replied.

Sheba leaned over and gave me a hug. It was unusual to say the least, but we had worked long centares together since the Callisto came out of nowhere and we had grown quite close. We trusted each other with our very lives (as all Warriors should).

"By the way, Commander, speaking of promotions and such, I have the final results of the Gold squadron elections. Here they are." I handed her a printout of the voting.

"OK. Post it. They'll be glad to hear the results..."

I turned and went for the comm central unit to make the announcement of who was going to lead the squadron for the next yahren...
* * *

[LucianG]

Artus
Congratulations,

I'm sure the promotion was well earned.


Lieutenant Artus
* * *
Marcus
Congratulations Sir

The promotion is well diserved.

Ensign Marcus
* * *
Amy
Congrats on being made a full Colonel, Charybdis! This was long overdue. Your tireless efforts on our behalf were due for a reward.

Now that you are a Colonel, I guess I shouldn't get in your face so much and toss you around the bridge, huh? Oh yeah, I got bumped a notch too, so I guess nothing is going to change about that!! Wanna wrestle? Ha!

Congrats!

Captain Amy
* * *
Lucian
Colonel Charybdis,

Congratulations on your promotion! A round of drinks in the O-Club will be on me when we clear out of this miserable system.

Major Lucian
* * *
Charybdis
I punched the button on the comm unit to broadcast the special message.

"Attention all members of Gold squadron and all aboard the Callisto. The final results of the Gold squadron elections are in. It was a spirited fight with unfortunately a light turnout compared to Black squadron. But, a good election cycle nevertheless.

For an unprecedented 4th term, Major Brie is hereby re-elected as leader of Gold squadron! She will retain her commission as Major.

Congratulations to Major Brie and to Cpt. Skyler for their excellent leadership.

Major Brie, please forward to me at least two nominees for promotion at your earliest convenience."
<chorus of congratulations!!!>
* * *

[LucianG]

Charybdis
Sheba nodded her head. Flt. Spec. Geenie gave the command to the Warriors in the launch tubes.

"Black squadron flight two. Transferring control. Launch when ready."

"Keep monitoring as best you can," Sheba told Geenie. "Let me know how things are going."

I had arrived on the bridge just after Sheba. Some way to celebrate a promotion, of course, it couldn't be any worse for Brie. She was out there and had no idea that she had just been reelected to lead her squadron. I hoped that she would make it back to the ship to enjoy the good news.
* * *
Randrius
One rocket, streaked from the underside of Lt. Randrius' Viper and homed in on a Raider riding a plume of red fire. The projectile hit it mark and shattered the enemy craft violently. Two more Cylon sat on his tail and refuse to be shook off. He cut his enigine and dived using his momentum to finish the manuever. The Cylon rocketed past, ot expecting the maneuver. With his engines dead, they were having trouble finding. A missile streaked in from the port side and caught on of the baffled Cylon craft in the fuselage, courtesy of Killjoy. Randrius let fly with a missile and wasted the other.
"Three down over here, nice shot Ensign."
Randrius whelled around and hit the burn, rocketing off in pursuit of more Cylons.
* * *
JustinB
"Captain JustinB, this is Lieutenant Rose. We are on Route to you position and should be there in a centon." Rose said on the scrambled frequency.

"Rose, we are down to the last three raiders, but be wary. I don't know if there are any more out there, due to the scanners ineffectiveness in this system. Watch out for ghost blips on your scanners." I replied.
***************
Rose then contacted the rest of her flight, "Phlandor, Vexis, Ursiaon, we are going in to assist the Captain. Watch you scanners, but as per briefing use visual scanning as well." After receiving three acknowledgments, they went in.
***************
The last three were proving the hardest to kill. What happened next chilled me to the bones one of the raiders started transmitting a message.

"Base, this is Alpha Flight 1, we have engaged Colonial Vipers. Send reinforcements." he said in mechanical cylon voice. He only got halfway through repeating it when my last two missiles slammed into his raider.

"Killjoy, Randrius, lets nail these last two tin-heads. RaycerX, watch our six."

Before we had lined up for the kill, six ship-to-ship missiles flew by us and destroyed the last remaining raiders.

"Is there anything we can do to help?" Rose asked sarcastically.

"Not at the moment," I said, "but first I will notify the Callisto, give them a brief on the situation and ask what they want us to do next. Until then, join up with my flight."

"Callisto, this is Black Flight Leader. Do you copy?"

After a few microns I got a reply. "Black Flight Leader this is Callisto, please wait a micron." It was Flt. Spec. Geenie.

On the Bridge, Flt. Spec. Geenie turned to Colonel Charybdis who was sitting nearby said, "Colonel, Black Flight Leader reporting in. Colonel Charybdis made his way over to Geenie.

"Captain, this is Colonel Charybdis, what’s your situation?"

"Well Sir, we encountered a cylon patrol of nine raiders. All have now been destroyed, but they managed to get off a transmission. Also, Lieutenant RaycerX was hit in his high engine, but we are all here as well as Lieutenant Rose's Flight. Do you want us to continue on the patrol, or make our way to the Callisto? By the way Sir, congratulations on the promotion."
* * *
Charybdis
JustinB was handling himself well. He was a good Warrior. Almost gotten himself elected leader of Black squadron. But, since Major BatGal has come down with that nasty disease, the Captain has been running the squadron well.

"Captain, I don't know how in Hades Hole you found out that I had been promoted, but thanks." I replied with half a smile on my face, but there were more urgent matters to contend with.

At that moment, Commander Sheba entered. After a brief message, she said she wanted them back nearer to the Callisto in a patrol pattern. With all this soup in the system, they needed to stay as close to the Callisto as possible but still be effective in spotting any more Cylons.

"Cpt. JustinB, we are sending coordinates where you are to rendevouz with the Callisto. We are heading for the direction in which Major Brie last was seen. Stay alert!"

"Message received. Awaiting coordinates for rendezvous," came the garbled reply. Geenie punched the button to transmit via scrambled signal.

I turned to Sheba. "Commander, looks like we might have company. But there is a chance that we can hide in this stuff and make good our escape." She looked at the screen on the console in front of us that was supposed to be showing our fighter's positions, but it was blank.

"I hope so, Colonel. Fighting a base ship in this system was not in my game plan. We have to get out of here fast and avoid any Cylon entanglements. Carry on." She whirled and left the bridge.

"Just in case, Commander, should we bring the ship under full alert?" I quickly asked before she left the room.

"Yes."

I looked down at Geenie. "You heard the Commander, Geenie. Give the order. Red Alert! All pilots to their ships to stay in standby mode."

THe ship suddenly bathed in red light as the sirens wailed and the crew scattered every which way…
* * *
Rose
Rose was doing her best in staying alert as she and the others waited for the needed coordinates to meet up with the Callisto. She didn't like the idea of there still being the possibility of other Cylons out there and they not know anything as to how many more were still out there that they could possibly come across while enroute to meet up with the Callisto and then getting out of the area that they were currently traveling through in their search for the rest of the Fleet. Rose hoped that things would go smoothly for them and that they would make it back safely.

While she was doing what she could to stay alert to things going on around her, Rose started thinking about her relationship with JustinB. She wanted things to go well between them and hoped that once they were safely back onboard the Callisto that the two of them could spend some down time with one another. Rose knew that while they were on duty things had to be professional between them, but while they were off duty, she wanted to be able to have some fun with JustinB.
* * *

[LucianG]

Charybdis
Core Command has received and approved the following promotions for these Warriors:

Amy
Stadia


These two Warriors are hereby commissioned with the rank of Captain in the Colonial Military with all rights and priviledges therein.

Congatulations to Cpt. Amy and Cpt. Stadia!!
<chorus of congratulations!!!>
* * *
Brie
It was supposed to be an easy mission. A team from the Galactica was leaving a canister for the team from the Callisto with the new coordinates of the fleet. Simple. As the Gold team approached the coordinates in their vipers Major Brie realized right away that there was no way that they would be able to set down close to where the canister was supposed to be. They would have to hike up a snow-covered mountain, with low gravity and wearing envrosuits.

Seeing a decent spot halfway up the mountain, Brie made instructions to land. She and Lt. Granfury planned to land near one end of a large ledge, Captain Skyler and Lt. Thunderhawk near the other end. As Brie landed her viper the lack of gravity took its toll and she actually ended up back in the air. "I never knew that vipers could bounce!" she exclaimed into her comm as she tried again. "Be careful, the gravity is even less than the simms." On her second time she landed and stayed. She watched as the other vipers approached, dreading getting out of her viper.
* * *
Charybdis
"Commander!" came the shriek from Ens. Finky.

Sheba came over fast, "What is it?"

Finky pointed to the readout, what could be read, that is, and then showed the Commander the monitor showing the intelligible markings in the system.

"From all reports of the last position of Black squadron, and given these intermittent markings here, here and here, we believe that those are Cylon fighters with this one here being a Cylon baseship."

Sheba closed her eyes slowly. This was the last thing we needed, especially in this system. I stood off to the side to see what Sheba would order.

"Increase speed and delay Black squadron to a position behind us. Just in case, launch Gold squadron to take up a perimiter around the ship. If needed, they will be out there already"

"Aye, Commander." replied Finky.

The call went out. The ship had already been under Red Alert, now the remaining Gold squadron pilots had to get out there in their ships. A simple mission had turned bad once again.

"Gold squadron, to all ships. To all ships. Transferring control, launch when ready."
* * *
Amy
I was just about to answer Marcus when suddenly the alarms went off. Red Alerts were sounding, and Gold Squadron was scrambling! I jumped to my feet, butting out the fumarillo on the side of the table.

"We're live, guys!", I said excitedly. "This is what we've been waiting for!" I headed for the door of the ready room, Artus and Marcus right there beside me. "Let's hope we can pick up our game later!"

As we ran down the corridor, a thought struck me. "Do either of you remember the pairings? Who's my wingman?"

Both Artus and Marcus shrugged. "I don't think the major paired off the back-up flight," Artus observed.

"Yeah" Marcus agreed. "Just listed us."

Oh great. I didn't want to have to choose between them. Of course it was nothing personal in who I picked, but it felt that way. Nice way to start acting like a captain! "Let's see if we can spot Stadia", I replied. "Come on". I ran faster out into the launch bay.

There was bustle and commotion everywhere. People scurried around, every one on an important assignment. I heard bits and pieces of conversations as people ran by.

"Cylons are out there...."

"How'd they find us...."

"Patrol was attacked..."

I looked around, but couldn't spot Stadia in the crowd. I pointed over toward our vipers, and ran with Artus and Marcus that way. We got to our ships, and I took a helmet from a flight deck crewman. I smoothed back my hair and put the helmet on.

"Okay," I began, "Stadia might already be out there. So until we hook up with her, you both are with me." Artus and Marcus looked at each other, then back at me. "I know it's not exactly by the book, but we need to get out there. Decide between you who is going with Stadia so we have a smooth transition once we find her."

I hopped up the steps of my viper as Artus and Marcus did the same at theirs. "Besides" I called out to them, "With two of you watching my ass, I'll know for sure there'll be no Cylons there!"

I jumped into my viper, my old viper! As the canopy swung closed my old fuzzy dice came into view. Ah, yes, the good old days! The crewman gave me a thumbs up gesture, then backed away. I spoke into the comlink: "Captain Amy requesting launch clearance." I hit the three turbo buttons and revved my engines as I awaited a response.

Up on the bridge, my request came over the speaker. Any moment now, I'd be cleared and down the tube I'd go....
* * *
JustinB
Shortly after receiving the rendezvous co-ordinates for linking up with the Callisto, I received new orders. We were to take up position behind the Callisto.

I then informed my Flight, “Black Flight, we have been given new orders. We are to take a rearguard position way behind the Callisto. Rose, you take Randrius, RaycerX and Killjoy and stay 100 metrons to my right. Vexis, Phlandor and Ursiaon, you’re with me. Any Questions?”

“Yes Sir,” it was Ensign Vexis, “what’s going on? I mean I thought we were heading back to re-arm and re-fuel.”

“Ensign, you can bet your cubits that the Callisto has picked up more Cylons on their scanners. By holding back you can say we are their insurance policy. Now let’s go.”

Once the flights re-arranged themselves, we made our way as fast as we could to the allocated co-ordinates. To make our fuel last in case of further contacts with the Cylons, I ordered that we employ the use of the ram-scoop system. By processing the particles in space and turning it into usable fuel for the Fusion reactor and engines, we wouldn’t have to refuel for a while. Thirty microns later we arrived at the co-ordinates given by the Callisto.

“We now are running under radio silence. No unnecessary chatter, do you all understand?” After receiving acknowledgments, the waiting game begun.
* * *

[LucianG]

Charybdis
Flt. Spec. Geenie took a quick look at me. "Sir, Captain Amy is requesting flight clearance. She is ready to lead the Gold squadron back-up flight. Should I clear her?"

Amy. She had made Captain. But I hadn't even had the chance to congratulate her, or tell her how proud I was of her. Things had been so hectic. My mind flashed back to the days of hidden romance. When Amy and I would sneak out to some remote part of the ship and lose ourselves in each other's embrace (and a whole lot more!!). That seemed so far away now.

But what was not far away where those fracking Cylons! How in the 12 worlds did they track us? Or did they luck upon us?

"Get confirmation from the Med Lab." I snapped back. Seeing as to how mad Amy was when I played it by the book to keep her from going on Brie's planetary mission, I had hoped that her record would come back clean.

"Med lab says she's clear, Colonel," came the quick reply.

"Do it." I said.

Geenie turned back to the comm unit. "Gold squadron flight 2, cleared for launch. Transferring control. Launch when ready."
* * *
Lucian
Lucian was breathing hard by the time he rushed into the Science Lab. "What's the status?" he asked between breaths.

At the interruption, Solon rolled his eyes impatiently toward Fallel, his young associate, and turned toward the Major. "Listen, Ma-jor," he said, with his voice cracking, "some things are like making fine ambrosia. They take time. Interruptions don't contribute a great deal to improving the situation."

"Sorry, Sir," said Lucian, trying to appease the elderly genius and get him back on track. "We've got lots of spots showing up on the scanners, but we don't know if they are real. Your work here could mean the difference in life and death."

"Life and death. Death and life. It's always something like that," said Solon as he turned back to the device on which he had been working. As he did so, he winked at Fallel, and said, "Well, it could be another centar or so before we finish..." He pointed to several connections which Fallel promptly closed, but he waited in vain for Lucian's reply. "What? No complaints, Major?"

"I'm sure you're working as fast and efficiently as you can. Is there anything I can do to assist to speed up the process?" asked Lucian.

"Now that's the spirit!" cracked Solon. "Useful assistance rather than useless complaints! I like it; however, in this case, I think you're a little late. Right, Fallel?"

"I think so, Sir," said the young Outlander. "Looks like that's it. You've done it again!"

"Of course, Fallel, but not fast enough for the Major, here," he whispered with a grin, but not quite low enough that Lucian couldn't overhear the comment. Speaking up, he continued, "Well, Major, what are you waiting for? Let's get this modulator to the bridge to see if we can clean those sensors up a bit!" Smiling broadly, he said, "If this thing works as we believe, this modulation device hooked into our short range sensor array will at least give us a little more range on the Callisto's sensors so we won't be quite as surprised if a Cylon Base-Ship is heading straight for us. It should turn this dark murk into a somewhat lighter murk. Of course, since we've linked a number of existing circuits in various devices together, this thing is too big to fit in our Vipers, but Miss Geenie can relay the information. She can always use the workout."

They wheeled the cart down the corridor toward the Bridge, being careful not to jar the fragile-looking contraption.
* * *
Amy
I glanced at Artus and Marcus while I revved my turbos and waited for clearance to launch. Did I detect a slight delay? I didn't dwell on it too long, but as the word came down I did file it away to think about later, assuming there was a later.

Geenie's voice came over the com link: "Gold squadron flight 2, cleared for launch. Transferring control. Launch when ready."

With another glance at Artus and Marcus, I then set my sights forward and braced myself for the quick acceleration of launch speed.
* * *
Marcus
Geenie's voice came over the com link: "Gold squadron flight 2, cleared for launch. Transferring control. Launch when ready."

I was ready for this one my first mission since the academy. Would be nice to blow up some cylons. Before we launched I contacted Amy and Artus “ Hey guys I will be Stadia’s wingman if we can spot her, if not Amy you got two wingman.”

As I power the engines and launched my viper to the blackness of space I felt an unexpected calm come over me. I did not know what to expect but I knew we would come through this.

Well time to get the cylons.
* * *
Amy
Before I hit the turbos for launch, I heard Marcus's voice come over my comlink. "Hey guys I will be Stadia's wingman if we can spot her, if not Amy you got two wingman." Cool, that little detail was out of the way.

"Thank you, Marcus" I replied, thought I was pretty sure my voice was drowned out by the blast of launch engines. Down the tube I flew, and out into space.

I was immediately struck by the low visibility as I hit my braking flaps and came to a relative halt just outside the Callisto. I wished I knew more about what had happened. Where the cylons had been sighted, and what the status of Major Brie's mission was. Were they alright? Had the Cylons attacked them? My nearly overwhelming urge was to kick in my turbos and head straight for where they had gone. But I swallowed it down and held my position. Still, I felt suddenly very fidgety.

"Can't see much" I observed, speaking into my link to Marcus and Artus, my gift for stating the obvious rather, well, obvious. "I wonder what's next. Wait for the Cylons to come calling?"

I watched as Black flight came in for a landing, one of the ships showing damage to it's high engine. I wished I knew more about what had happened, and if Captain JustinB and his team were okay.
* * *

[LucianG]

JustinB
The Techs and flight crews in Beta Bay rushed to their assigned jobs. They had been alerted by Major BatGal, that a flight of four vipers from Black Squadron was about to land for re-arming and re-fuelling. To make matters worse, one of them had damage to the high engine. So just in case they had a spare viper prepped in case the damage was too extensive.
********************
"Rose, I have just received a reply to my request to re-fuel and re-arm. I will be taking my original short-range-patrol in. You and your flight are to remain in the current assignment area until I return," I said as I was next to her viper and could see her face. "I'll be back in a flash."

Turning into the outer marker with Randrius, Killjoy and RaycerX I lowered my landing gear. As I entered the landing bay my thoughts momentarily turned to Rose and that nothing happened while I was aboard the Callisto. As soon as I stopped, I opened the canopy, stood up and stretched. I then hopped out of the viper so my viper could be fuelled and armed with more ship-to ship missiles.

After the excitement I just went through, I was feeling a little thirsty. While I was waiting for the rest of my flight, I heard footsteps stop behind me. As I turned around, I saw it was Major BatGal but for some reason she seemed a little different.

I went to salute her when she said, "No need to salute JustinB. Plus I don't think I would have the energy to return it."

"What’s wrong Major?" I asked.

"JustinB, I am suffering from Hex-I poisoning, which is worse than just an allergic reaction I have been told. But Holodoc is taking good care of me so no need to worry. By the way, I am glad to hear you and your flight survived the cylon encounter. After I am better, you will have to tell me about it and how you made scrap metal out of the cylons you encountered."

Even though she was weak from the poisoning, the confidence and the leadership qualities she possessed shone strongly. I admired that in her from the day I first met her. I could only hope to be good as her in how she commanded the Squadron.

"Yes Major, I would take great pleasure going over the incident over a drink later on. But if you would excuse me, I would dearly love to grab a quick bite to eat plus something to drink. But before I do, all the warriors under my command during the skirmish performed very well, even Ensign Killjoy."
* * *
Marcus
Just as we hit space I hit the braking flaps and slowed to beside Amy and Artus. Amy’s voice came over the com line "Can't see much", "I wonder what's next. Wait for the Cylons to come calling?" Amy sounded worried, I was worried myself about Major Brie and the team that went on the mission. I hope they are ok. We had no word from them yet.

No sense in worrying about that now. As Black squadron came into land I noticed one of them had damage to the upper engine. The tech boys were going to have fun with that one.
It takes me back to the days when my father taught me how to fix a viper, but those days are past and time to get back to work.

I still had no luck finding Stadia so I guess I’ll stick with Amy and Artus. “Amy no luck finding Stadia yet so I guess you still have me watching your tail.”
* * *
Amy
I heard Marcus's voice come through my comlink: "Amy no luck finding Stadia yet so I guess you still have me watching your tail."

"Gotcha, Marcus", I replied to him, "I haven't picked up Stadia yet either. She might have gotten sick on the Hex injections, so don't know if she's even out here."

I sat back, hating the hurry-up-and-wait aspects of this scramble to launch. The heart gets pumping, nerves get set on edge, and then... nothing but floating in a thick soup waiting. And not even knowing what exactly you are waiting for. I needed some info.

I looked over, and thought I could make out Manatee, my good friend and favorite informant.

"Manatee, that you over there?" I asked into my com.

"Lt. Amy?" he began, "I mean Captain. Yessir, M'am".

I smiled, then grew serious again. "What's the word?"

"How'd you figure I'd know anything?" he asked innocently.

"Just give if you know anything."

"Well Captain", he began, "word is Cylons jumped Captain JustinB's patrol. At least one baseship we can count on, if not a whole base. It's all still pretty sketchy."

I nodded. "How about the deep Gold mission?"

His voice grew grimmer. "Not a peep."

I drummed my fingers on the joystick. Manatee was always good on his information. Cylons. And nothing on the Gold mission. I fought down an angry surge of frustrated energy. I should have been on that mission! Briefly I pictured myself with my hands around Colonel Charybdis's neck. But that wouldn't solve anything. Images of Major Brie passed through my mind. The urge to peel off and take up their last heading was almost too much to hold back.

But I just sat there. "Thanks Manatee", I said belatedly. I sighed, looking back at Marcus and Artus.
* * *
JustinB
After talking to Major BatGal, I took the ascension tube to the mess level. Being on patrol and having a good dogfight had made this Captain hungry and in need for an energy boost. Since I was in a hurry, I grabbed two hydronic mushies, two bottles of water and in case of an extended flight time a handful of K-biscuits.

As I was eating the mushies on the way back to the launch bay, I noticed how deserted the corridors were. Obviously everyone was at their duty stations or sleeping. Taking the ascension tube down to the launch bay, I finished the last mushie. After taking a long drink of water I felt refreshed.

Upon entering the beta launch bay, I saw Randrius, Killjoy and RaycerX standing by my viper talking ecstatically. By their hand movements, I could see they were going over the prior skirmish. A couple of techs stood close by listening to the tales, but as soon as they saw me walk towards them they went back to work.

"Captain JustinB, where have you been?" Killjoy asked.

Tossing them all some K-biscuits I said, "I went to have my own fuel cells re-fuelled. Hopefully these will tie you through until this crisis is over."

A tech came over and informed us that Lieutenant RaycerX's viper was damaged more than we thought. He did inform us that another viper was ready for him and that the rest of ours would be ready in five microns. After the tech left we all headed to our vipers.

As I approached my viper, I gave it the once over. It was an old habit checking over the viper before launch, but a good habit nether the less.

When the re-fuelling had finished, I jumped into the cockpit. I placed on my Helm and placed the remaining K-biscuits in the small storage area on the side. I proceeded to check in with my flight.

"Killjoy, you ready?"

"Ready Captain."

"Randrius and RaycerX?"

"Ready." they said together.

"Core Command, this is Black Flight of four requesting permission to launch and take up position behind the Callisto."
* * *