Athena's Fury
				     By  Lt_Athena


DISCLAIMER:  Battlestar Galactica and its related characters are not mine. 
They are owned by Glen A. Larson. This storyline was inspired by events on 
the show. No copyright infringement of any kind is intended. This is just 
for fun. This story is not to be republished, retransmitted, etc., without 
express consent of the author. Please direct all feedback to 
Lt_Athena@hotmail.com


It had been a long day and Athena was happy to be leaving the bridge. Lately 
her work there had been less then ... fulfilling. She yearned to be out 
among the stars; she yearned to be a true warrior. Being on the Galactica's 
reserve squadron was a step in the right direction, but the training and the 
classes were just too few and far between. Once a secton, in addition to her 
other duties, she would report to class or the landing bay along with the 
other members of the reserve squadron, for practice and updates.

Only one day out of every secton she had something to look forward to. After 
the destruction she had agreed that she would accept temporary bridge duty. 
Athena agreed to this only to please her father; it was not where she wanted 
to spend her career. She understood how hard it was on her father to have 
Apollo out there in his viper every day, defending the Galactica; and she 
wanted to try and ease his worries. Especially after the death of her 
brother Zac and her mother Ila.

But what wasn't clear was just how long she was expected to be unhappy. How 
long did she need to trade off her happiness in exchange for her fathers 
peace of mind? When could she start putting herself first?

Athena had just heard the door swoosh close behind her when Colonel Tigh 
walked up to her.

Smiling he said, "Long day, Athena?"

Rubbing her temples she replied, "Yes. You could say that."

Becoming serious Tigh said, "Between you and I, I know that you're unhappy 
with bridge duty. I'll do everything I can to make things better for you."

"Thank you, Colonel. I'm glad that someone is interested in my happiness."

Placing a hand on her shoulder he responded, "Athena, your father is too. 
Adama's just scared of losing you and Apollo. He's just doing what he thinks 
is right."

Athena shook her head. "But he never asks me what it is that I want. He and 
Apollo always assume they know what's in my best interest." Trying to smile 
she continued, "I'm just glad that the reserve squadron is meeting tomorrow. 
It's about the only thing right now that I have to look forward to."

"Um, you haven't heard the news concerning reserve squadron?" Tigh nervously 
asked.

Athena's blue eyes widened. "No, what news?"

"I didn't want to be the one to tell you, but I guess I have no choice now." 
Taking a deep breath Tigh continued," The reserve squadron has been selected 
to fly with Blue Squadron on a two day training mission."

Athena's face lit up with excitement. "That's great!" Then noticing his face 
she added, "Isn't it?"

"There's no easy way to say this so I'm just going to say it. Athena, your 
name isn't on that list. You won't be flying in that training mission."

"What? Why not?"

"We're short on bridge staff this week due to the Telarian flu that has been 
going around," Tigh replied.

Athena shook her head in disbelief. "So you're telling me that no one from 
the bridge who is on the reserve squadron will be going on that mission? Is 
that correct?"

"Umm , well ....," Tigh began to say.

She was furious! "What you're trying to say is that I'M the only one who 
won't be going on that training mission, right? Frack!" she said, hitting 
her fist against the bulkhead. "Why is father doing this to me?! Rigel, 
Dietra and Brie all have more flight time then I do!"

Tigh was at a loss. He knew how important becoming a warrior was to Athena. 
He also knew that Adama and Apollo were very overprotective of her. He 
himself may not agree with their methods, but he knew better than to 
confront the Commander with this subject. "I'm sorry Athena," was all he 
could say.

Turning around to look at him she said, "It's not your fault. I appreciate 
the support that you've given me. But this isn't your fight - it's mine. And 
I have to deal with this right here and now. I can't let this go any 
further. Do you know where my father is right now?"

"I believe he is in his quarters at the moment conferring with Starbuck and 
Apollo."

"Thank you," Athena said as she turned to leave.

"Good luck." Tigh thought, *May the Lords of Kobol be with them all. I have 
never seen Athena more furious and more determined in her life. It looks 
like that family is in for another shake up.*

=============================================================

Adrenaline was coursing through Athena's body as she approached her father's 
quarters. She paced outside the door for a few moments, trying to get her 
thoughts together. She was so mad at them, but she needed to do this the 
right way. On the other hand, maybe it would be better if she didn't keep 
her fury in check this one time. *Well, here goes.*

The conversation came to a stop when Athena unceremoniously entered Adama's 
quarters. All three men turned and looked up at her expecting her usual 
smile. Instead they found pure hurt and pain echoed in her eyes.

"Daughter, what's wrong?" Adama asked.

"Sis, what's up?" Apollo followed.

"I think you know what this is about father," Athena said angrily.

Adama sighed. "Please Athena. Give an old man a break and refresh my 
memory."

"Why am I the only member of the reserve squadron who will not be going on 
the two day training mission with Blue Squadron?"

Adama looked at Apollo who looked at Starbuck.

"I want an answer!"

All three of them stood up and headed into the living area. "Athena, calm 
down," Adama said, walking over to his daughter.

"Not until you answer me!"

"Athena, that is no way to speak to father," Apollo admonished her.

She turned to Apollo and said, "Apollo, stay out of this. You and I are 
going to have a talk as soon as I'm finished." Refocusing her attention on 
her father she continued, "Well father?"

"Athena, we're simply too short handed on the bridge at the moment. We 
really can't spare you," Adama replied sympathetically. He knew how much his 
daughter wanted to be a warrior, but he just wasn't ready to lose her yet. 
Being on the bridge was the safest place for her.

"I'm not buying it father. If you can't spare me, then you can't spare Rigel 
or Dietra either. Yet, they're going on the mission and I'm not. So stop 
lying to me father!"

"Sis, you've got to calm down. Where is all this coming from? This is no way 
to ....," Apollo started to say.

"Shut up Apollo!" Athena yelled. "For the first time in one yahren, I'm 
going to say what I came here to say." Turning to her father she began to 
finally let out everything, "When are you going to see me as the woman I am? 
I am not a child who needs to be protected like a porcelain doll! Do you 
even care what I want? Or are you just humoring me?  You promised me that 
I'd be temporarily assigned to the bridge. And now it seems like it's my 
permanent job! You must know by now that I am not happy there. I want to be 
a warrior; I want to fly!"

"I've never had any favorites....," Adama tried to get a word in.

Athena was holding back tears as she angrily said, "Don't play that game 
with me father. Because everyone here knows that Apollo has been, and always 
will be, your favorite child. You were always so busy with the Galactica 
that you never made any time for me. All those missed novayahrens and 
special times in my life. You can't ever get that back! You weren't there 
when I graduated from the Academy. The most important day of my life and my 
father and brother," Athena paused to glare at Apollo, "weren't there. 
You're so proud of Apollo and Zac. All I wanted was the same pride to be 
reflected in your eyes when you talked about me. All my life you've always 
made me feel second best. Tell me father, did you ever REALLY want a 
daughter?"

Standing in front of her brother Athena yelled, "And you Apollo! You're 
always trying to protect me from everything!  Must you always intrude and 
interfere in my life? Why do you always have to be my big brother instead of 
being my friend? I know you were closer to Zac then you were to me. You 
always treated me as an ... obligation; a responsibility. Never as an equal. 
Sometimes I think you wish that I had died instead of Zac."

Making her way over to Starbuck, who had tried to look invisible over in the 
corner of the room she started, "On the day of the destruction, you asked me 
to get sealed to you. When I asked you for more time because I just lost my 
mother and brother, you turned your back on me - you walked away when I 
needed you the most. Then I find you - only microns later - kissing Cassie. 
It's pretty obvious that you never really loved me. I was just something for 
you to use. Nothing but a prop to play with until something better came 
along to occupy your time."

Athena turned away as complete silence descended upon the room. Turning back 
to face them she lowered her voice, "I've said what I've came here to say. 
You can consider this my resignation from my bridge duty. And if this is the 
treatment and support that I'm going to get from my family, consider this my 
resignation from that too." She had no sooner walked out of Adama's quarters 
when the tears that she had been holding back began to fall. *I wasn't 
saying this to hurt anyone. I was doing it because I couldn't let their 
behavior go on any longer,* Athena said to herself. *I have to find Sheba. I 
need someone to talk to; someone who will understand.* Wiping away her 
tears, Athena made her way to Sheba's quarters.

Meanwhile, back inside Adama's quarters ....

"I can't believe Athena acted that way!" Apollo yelled. "She has taken being 
a Brat to a whole new level!"

Adama held up his hand to stop his son from continuing. "We've hurt your 
sister. I think she's been trying to subtly tell us this for a while. We 
just haven't been very good listeners."

"Father, surely you know that I never wished that Athena died on Caprica. 
You know I love her," Apollo said, suddenly overwhelmed with concern for his 
sister.

"I know Apollo. Just as I never wished that I had a son in her place," Adama 
said solemnly.

"Should I go after her?" Starbuck offered.

"No. I'm sure she's headed straight for Sheba's quarters," Apollo began. 
"Let's give her some time." Turning to Starbuck he added, "But I would like 
to know the story behind you asking my sister to get sealed; and why this is 
the first I'm hearing of it."

"Umm," Starbuck started to say. "Well, look at the time. I've got a date 
with Cassie in 15 centons. Sorry, but I have to go." Starbuck headed towards 
the door when he suddenly found Apollo blocking his way.  Smiling, Apollo 
said, "I think you can spare us a few microns."

=============================================================

The corridors that led Athena to Sheba's quarters were empty. Everyone was 
most likely at the latest triad match. Since Apollo's team wasn't playing 
tonight, Athena knew she could find Sheba in her quarters. Sheba was like a 
sister to her; much in the same way that Serina was. They had both been 
through so much; both losing their mother to the Cylon's destruction. Athena 
was so deep in thought, that when she rounded the next corner she literally 
ran into a man coming the other way.

She tried to move around him, but he persisted and held onto her arms. 
"Please, miss! You have to help me!"

"What's wrong?" Athena asked.

"My name is Atreus. My daughter is injured. Please, you have to help her!" 
he yelled.

"Did you call Life Center?"

"Yes! But they're taking too long! Please come with me!"

Nodding, Athena said, "Of course I'll help you. Show me where your daughter 
is."

Atreus led Athena through the deserted, winding corridors and down a few 
levels. Finally, he pushed Athena in front of him and said, "Down there. 
She's down there!" Athena bolted down the stairs; the ABC's of her medical 
training running through her mind. Except when she reached the bottom, no 
one was there.

Looking back up at Atreus she said, "What kind of joke is this? There's no 
one here!"

Slowly descending the stairs he replied, "I'm sorry to have to do it this 
way Athena, but I knew that you wouldn't talk to me otherwise."

Trapped with her back to the wall, Athena had no where else to run. "Who are 
you and how do you know me?"

"My name really is Atreus. And what I'm about to tell you might shock you. 
But I assure you that it is the truth." Pausing he added, "I am your 
father."

Athena stared at the stranger in disbelief. "What?"

Atreus repeated, "I am your father."

"What kind of felgercarb is this? You are NOT my father!" she yelled. "I am 
the daughter of Commander Adama!"

"I'm sorry you had to find out this way." Extending a hand towards Athena he 
continued, "I can prove it. Come with me; let's talk for a while."

"NO! I'm not going anywhere with you. I don't believe a word you've said!"

Sighing, Atreus said, "You can yell and scream all you want Athena. We are 
so far down in the ship, that only robotic maintenance crews come through 
here. You will come with me. Now."

"NO!"

As he descended the last few steps, Athena made a move and tried to bolt 
past him. Atreus grabbed her by the arms and spun her around to look him in 
the eyes. It was then Athena noticed that his eye coloring was the same as 
hers - a soft, piercing blue. Quickly she realized that no one else in her 
family had her eye color. Not her father or her mother. Not Apollo or Zac. 
Come to think of it, she'd never seen a family member who did have blue 
eyes.

Pushing those thoughts away, Athena reached out and slapped him as hard as 
she could, forcing him to release her, then turned and started to run up the 
stairs.

Recovering quickly, Atreus caught Athena by her legs and she fell face 
first, instantly hitting her head against the step. Dragging her back down, 
he turned her over only to find her unconscious. Her forehead was cut open, 
causing blood to trickle down the side of her face. Pushing back her hair, 
he also found a lump on the side of her head.

"I didn't want to do it this way daughter, but you've left me no other 
options. We will do this the hard way," Atreus said aloud. He quickly picked 
Athena up and headed down the corridor to a deserted room and sealed them 
in.

========================================================================
Adama's quarters.

"Father," Apollo started, "I'm really worried about Athena."

Adama walked over to his son and put a hand on his shoulder. "So am I 
Apollo. She was so hurt and angry when she left here. But your sister has a 
good head on her shoulders. So I have to believe that she is fine and that 
she's just taking some time for herself."

"Athena usually goes to Sheba's when she's upset about something. But Sheba 
hasn't seen her." Worried, Apollo turned to face his father. "I think we 
should put out a ship wide alert for her."

"Don't you think that's a little extreme considering what your sister said 
about us not interfering in her life?" Adama asked.

Apollo looked his father in the eye. "I know what she said father. Believe 
me, I heard every word loud and clear, but better safe then sorry. I'd feel 
better knowing she was okay. Please?"

Sighing Adama nodded. "Agreed. Go ahead Apollo. But tell security to observe 
her and report back. They are not to approach her."

"Understood sir."
========================================================================
Atreus quickly dumped Athena onto the cold steel floor of the barren room. 
He began talking aloud to no one in particular. "You're making my life 
difficult daughter, but I don't mind. It'll be nice just to have you in my 
life. I'm going to show Adama that I'm a much better father then he's been 
to you. There isn't anything I wouldn't do for you. "

Walking over to a small trunk in the corner of the room, Atreus began to set 
up a video-link; one that would bypass the usual comm system and would be 
untraceable. "Even though he doesn't deserve it, I'm going to let Adama know 
that you are safe here with me. Just a quick note though, okay honey," he 
paused to look back at Athena. "Then we can spend some time catching up. I'm 
sure you have a lot of questions for me."

After a few centons, the video-link was ready, "Patch me through to 
Commander Adama...."

Adama and Apollo were in the Commander's quarters when the video link 
chimed.

"Receive," Adama said, walking over to the comm unit.

"Hello Commander Adama."

"I don't believe I know you. Is there something I can do for you?" Adama 
asked. Apollo approached his father and stood close enough to him to see the 
monitor but out of site of the caller.

"My name is Atreus." Pausing he added, "You don't remember me do you?"

Adama shook his head. "No, I'm sorry. Am I supposed to know you?"

"You don't remember me from Caprica?" Atreus asked.

Adama thought for a micron and replied, "I'm sorry sir, I really don't have 
time to play guessing games. We are in the middle of a family emergency."

"That's what I'm calling about."

Adama became concerned. "What do you mean?"

"Athena is with me," Atreus stated as a matter of fact.

Struggling to keep from raising his voice Adama asked, "What do you mean 
Athena is with you? Where exactly is she?"

Apollo moved to confront Atreus, but Adama held up a hand to stop him.

Smiling Atreus continued, "You don't have to pretend anymore Adama. Athena 
finally knows that I am her father. I told her today."

"What do you mean 'pretend anymore'? What have you done with my daughter?" 
Adama demanded.

Atreus yelled back. "I told you, *I* am Athena's father!" Running a hand 
through his hair he continued, "You can't possible tell me that Ila never 
told you about our affair?"

Adama stared blankly at the screen. He managed to choke out, "I don't 
believe you."

Impatiently Atreus said, "Well wake up old man because it's the truth! All 
you have to do is look me in the eyes and you can see for yourself. Athena 
has the same eye coloring as I do. None of you, including Ila herself, had 
blue eyes."

Adama didn't want to argue with this man right now. All he wanted was to 
know that his daughter was safe. "Please ... let me speak to Athena," Adama 
begged.

"I'm sorry. I can't," Atreus replied.

"If she won't talk to me then at least let me see her. Please, I'm begging 
you!" Adama asked.

Reluctantly Atreus stepped away from the camera. Adjusting the camera with 
his hand he tilted the lens downward to where Athena lay on the floor.

Adama motioned for Apollo to quickly stand next to him before Atreus 
returned. Father and son both gasped with horror at what the camera 
revealed. The room was dark, but they could clearly make out Athena. It 
looked as if she had been haphazardly thrown to the floor of a cramped, 
barren room. She landed on her back and her face was tilted towards the 
camera. They could see a bad laceration above her left eye which was oozing 
blood, leaving a trail down the side of her face. She also had some bruises 
and looked very pale. But what worried them more was that she was 
unconscious.

As the camera moved, Apollo took up his position off to the side. His blood 
boiled with anger, but he had to keep calm for the moment.

When Atreus' face appeared on the screen again, Adama tried to remain in 
control and asked, "What did you do to her?"

"She wouldn't willingly come with me, so I had to .... persuade her."

"She needs medical treatment," Adama was quick to point out.

"Athena will be fine. I know how to take care of my daughter!" Atreus yelled 
back. "I'll contact you later. Right now I need to spend some time with 
Athena. You've kept us apart long enough." With that, he ended the 
connection.

Adama just stood there staring blankly at the screen.

Walking over to his father Apollo put a hand on his shoulder. "We'll find 
her."

"Oh Athena," Adama mumbled.

Leading his father over to the living area, Apollo made him sit on the sofa. 
He hadn't seen his father this devastated since the destruction of their 
homeworld. "I'm going to contact security and put out a fleetwide search for 
her. Then I'm going to find Colonel Tigh and Starbuck." Apollo hated leaving 
his father like this, but the longer they waited to act, the chances of 
finding Athena grew slimmer. "I'll be back as soon as I can." He ran out of 
the room thinking, *Please hold on Athena. I'm going to find you. I 
promise.*

Adama sat in the silence of his quarter and let the tears fall. "By the 
Lords of Kobol, please protect her."
========================================================================
After powering down the video link, Atreus returned his attention to Athena. 
Walking over to her, he picked her up and placed her on the cot he had set 
up earlier that day in preparation of their arrival. Atreus gently tried to 
shake her awake, to no avail. He noted that Athena's head wound was still 
bleeding. Getting up, he opened another bag, took out the supplies he needed 
and returned to her side. "Don't worry about the cut, honey. Daddy's going 
to make it all better. I promise."

He awkwardly placed a sterile bandage across the laceration and then taped 
it into place. Digging through the bag again, Atreus produced a hypodermic 
needle. Then, rolling up Athena's sleeve, he injected her. Leaning in, he 
kissed her on the side of her cheek. "That'll make you feel much better."
========================================================================
Adama's quarters 45 centons later.

Apollo replayed Atreus' message for Tigh and Starbuck. "The message is 
untraceable and there are no distinguishing background noises or clues to 
help us narrow down where he is holding Athena. We believe that she is still 
somewhere on the Galactica, as no one has reported seeing her on any of the 
transports heading off ship."

Apollo continued, "I have security checking the Officers Club, the 
Rejuvenation Center, etc. I want to do a ship wide search for her, but we 
have to limit it to only a few people that we can trust. So Starbuck, it'll 
be you, me, Sheba, Bojay and Boomer."

"I hate to interrupt," Starbuck began. "But I have a question that may be a 
little ... awkward to ask."

Adama nodded in understanding. "You want to know if there is any chance that 
Athena is not my daughter."

Starbuck looked down into his hands and nodded, embarrassed for even asking 
such a question.

"Starbuck ...," Apollo started to say.

But Adama held up a hand. "No, Apollo. It's alright. This is a question that 
needs asking and it deserves an answer. There is always a chance that she's 
not Starbuck. As much as I don't want to believe that Ila would have had an 
affair, I have to admit that it is a possibility. I would be lying if I said 
otherwise. I've always believed in the love that Ila and I shared and as far 
as I am concerned, Athena is my daughter. I know in my heart that she is my 
daughter. I know that Ila never had an affair with another, we were that 
deeply in love. I know that she wouldn't take her vows made at the Seal 
lightly. But we are only human. And we aren't perfect." Pausing, he 
continued on. "I can honestly say that Ila never mention anyone by the name 
of Atreus to me. And if she did have an affair, I believe that I would've 
found out."

Apollo approached his father. "Mother loved you very much. And I know that 
she never would've had an affair. Athena is your daughter."

"But you have to be realistic also. I was often gone for up to a yahren at a 
time. Maybe Ila got lonely and needed some companionship. Tell me, did he 
look at all familiar to you Apollo?" Adama asked.

"No, not at all. What about you Starbuck?"

Starbuck groaned. This wasn't a question he wanted to answer. He was afraid 
that answering it would lend credibility to Atreus' story.

"Starbuck?" Apollo repeated the question.

"Don't hate me for this, buddy. But the answer is yes. I remember him."
=============================================================
"He used to come over to the house whenever Adama was away." Looking up at 
Apollo he continued, "I can't believe that you don't recognize him Apollo."

Apollo was at a loss for words. *Could it be that what Atreus said is true? 
Athena really is his daughter?* He thought for a micron, trying to force a 
memory of Atreus, but none came.

"He was at one of Athena's novayahren parties. He gave her an oregg 
bracelet," Starbuck said, deflated. "I'm sorry. I wish I could say that I 
didn't remember him. I don't want to make it seem like I'm on his side."

Tigh moved closer to Starbuck. "You were only speaking the truth Starbuck. 
Besides, I know I've seen his face before too."

"Where?" Adama asked.

"I'm almost positive that he served on the Caprican Council." Pausing, he 
continued, "Which would explain how Ila and Atreus knew each other since she 
was a member of The Council also."

"Which means that there would be some information on him in the database," 
Adama said, as he motioned for Tigh to join him at the flatscreen.

Apollo dejectedly sat down next to Starbuck.

"Don't worry Apollo, everything's going to work out. We're going to find 
Athena. This whole mess will be cleared up real soon."

Apollo shook his head in disbelief. "I can't believe this is happening, 
Starbuck! My sister is being held captive by some crazy person who claims to 
be her real father." Lowering his voice he continued, "Only the Lords know 
how badly she's been injured. You saw the tape. You saw how pale she looked. 
She's my sister and I should've been able to protect her."

"Apollo, you can't blame yourself. There was nothing you could do. You 
couldn't have seen this coming. None of us could." Starbuck added, "You're 
not the only one who's feeling guilty."

"I guess we're all guilty of making her feel a little left out," Apollo said 
sadly. "I wish she were here."

*So do I buddy. So do I,* Starbuck thought, as he put a hand on Apollo's 
shoulder. "We're gonna find her. I promise you. Sheba and Bojay are already 
headed back in from patrol. They're going to meet up with us in about one 
centar. So lets come up with a plan of attack before they get here. This way 
we can just head out."

Looking up at Starbuck, Apollo said, "Let's break out the holomaps and get 
to work."
=============================================================Athena groaned 
and tried to open her eyes. Blinking a few times, she was barely able to 
make out a figure hovering over her.

"Father?" she called out weakly.

She felt someone pick up her hand and just by touch she knew it wasn't 
Adama.

"Don't be frightened Athena. I'm here," Atreus said.

She pulled her hand back. "No, I want my father!"

"Athena, please let me explain," Atreus began.

It was all coming back to her now. Atreus claimed to be her father. He also 
caused her to fall down the stairs. By the throbbing in her head, she 
realized it must've been a hard fall. So why did her arm hurt then?

"Where in Hades am I?"

"You're safe."

Athena tried to sit up, but the room wouldn't stop spinning. As it was, the 
room was dark and whatever she could distinguish, she saw in double. 
*Great,* she thought. *Now your family is never going to let you out of 
their sight again. Apollo's really going to be your protector now! Good 
going Athena.*

"Why are you doing this to me?" she asked wearily.

"I only want you to know the truth. I didn't make you fall down those 
stairs!" Atreus shouted. When he saw Athena raise her hand to her head in 
pain, he realized his voice was too loud. "I'm sorry. I didn't mean to shout 
at you. I know your head hurts and I'll try not to do that again."

"Why did you kidnap me?"

"I just wanted to tell you that you're my daughter. I want us to spend some 
time together. We need to get to know each other," Atreus replied.

"I am not your daughter!"

"I know this is hard for you to believe, but it's the truth." Sighing, 
Atreus continued, "Once you listen to what I have to say, I'll let you go. I 
promise."

"Fine. Then say what you need to say and let me go!"

Atreus began, "Ila and I met on the Caprican Council 24 yahrens ago. Adama 
was away so much and she was all alone raising Apollo and Zac. Your mother 
and I hit it off immediately. At first, we were just very good friends. We 
would go for long walks, have lunch together or just sit and talk until all 
hours of the night. Ila and I grew closer together with the passage of time 
and one day ...  it happened. We crossed the threshold and became lovers."

Athena tried to hide her disgust. Just the thought of her mother with this 
man made her stomach churn. *I know mother wouldn't have an affair. She was 
an honorable woman who loved father very much. No matter how lonely she was, 
she would never cheat on him. Right?* she said to herself.

"Nine months after that night, you were born. Adama knew he wasn't the 
father of Ila's child. He loved Ila and agree to take her back on the 
condition that he raise you as his own child. I tried to fight for custody 
of you, but Adama is a very influential man and he blocked my every attempt. 
We finally came to an agreement which basically stated that I would not 
interfere in your life in exchange for the chance to visit you from time to 
time. I would also receive pictures and updates on your accomplishments."

"Then why don't I remember you?"

"Do you remember receiving an oregg bracelet for your eighth novayahren?"

Nodding, Athena said, "Yes. Mother said it was from ...," she stopped in 
horror as she recalled her mothers exact words. "She said it was from my 
father."

Atreus looked down at Athena and smiled.
=============================================================
Adama's quarters.

Apollo, Boomer and Starbuck sat around the table looking at a holomap of the 
Galactica.

"Why don't we start by eliminating where we know Athena isn't," Apollo 
began.

"Well," Starbuck began. "Cross off the OC, the Rejuvenation Center, and the 
Launch Bays."

"You can also cross off any public or private place Officers would hang out, 
on duty or otherwise," Boomer added. "Besides, Athena hasn't been back to 
the Rejuvenation Center since the fire."

Apollo looked up at Boomer. "I didn't know that," he said softly.

"She didn't want anyone to know."

Looking away Apollo thought, *That's just one more thing I couldn't protect 
her from.* Apollo with renewed determination to rescue his sister, looked at 
the holomap. "If you wanted to kidnap someone, where on this ship could you 
hold them without being discovered?"

"If we're stating the obvious, I'd want some place private; off the beaten 
path. Some place I knew like the back of my hand," Starbuck said.

Boomer nodded. "You would need some place where you could come and go easily 
without raising suspicion."

Apollo had an idea. "What about the old storage compartments below deck? 
Sections Alpha 52 to Delta 38?"

"Can civilians get down there?" Boomer asked.

"They can if they know what they're doing. And this guy certainly does," 
Starbuck said.

Apollo sighed. "That still leaves us ten decks and over two hundred 
compartments. It would take days to cover the whole territory." He slammed 
his fist on the table in anger and walked out to the living area. "Damn it 
Athena, where are you?" he whispered to himself.

The door to Adama's quarters slid open to reveal Sheba and Bojay. Bojay 
immediately walked over to Boomer and Starbuck to get the latest update. 
Sheba debated whether or not to approach Apollo. He was leaning against the 
wall with a distraught look on his face. She knew Apollo was never 
forthcoming with his emotions. Right now though, she could read him like a 
book. Apollo was afraid he'd just lost another member of his family and was 
blaming himself. Sheba knew he would refuse any comfort she tried to give 
him at the moment, but she still felt she should let him know she was here 
for him.

Walking over to him she said, "Apollo?"

"Hi Sheba."

She lightly put a hand on his arm. "I know you're worried; we all are. We 
are going to find Athena."

Silently, Apollo nodded at Sheba.

"How's your father taking all this?" she asked.

"As well as can be expected considering Athena's been missing for 20 
centars."

Sheba opened her mouth to reply when Commander Adama walked into the room. 
"Sheba," he said extending his hand towards her.

Sheba took his hand and then warmly embraced him. "Commander. How are you 
holding up?"

"I'm worried, but I'm doing okay." Moving closer to her he whispered, "I'm 
more worried about Apollo."

"So am I. I promise to keep a close eye on him."

"Thank you," Adama replied.

"Father, did the database reveal anything on Atreus?"

Adama shook his head no. "Just the basics. Born and raised on Caprica; 
parents died when he was twenty four; no siblings. He was a biochemist and 
philosopher and joined the Caprician Council when he was thirty. His name is 
on the register as being a survivor from Caprica. It just doesn't say what 
he's been up to the last 1 1/2 yahrens."

Apollo mumbled, "Another dead end." As he moved away from the wall, he 
shifted into warrior mode again. "Now that everyone is here, lets split up 
into two teams. Sheba, Starbuck and I will take decks alpha and beta. 
Boomer, you and Bojay take gamma and delta. Everyone has a porta-link so the 
teams can keep in touch. If you find anything - even something remotely 
suspicious, contact me. Everyone understand?"

They all nodded in agreement.

"Good. Lets go find Athena."
=============================================================
10 centars later, Adama's quarters

Adama wearily made his way back to the sofa. Apollo had just reported in; 
there was still no sign of Atreus or Athena. *What if they never find any 
leads? What if Athena is dead?* he thought to himself. *NO! I can't think 
like that. I would know if my daughter were dead, I would feel it in my 
heart. Athena is alive and just waiting to be found. Apollo will find her.*

Picking up an old photo album, Adama began to thumb through the pages, 
thoughts of his children filling his mind. He came across Apollo's first 
baby picture. It was taken mere centons after his birth. Ila was holding 
Apollo and Adama was standing proudly at her side. Picking up the picture, 
he remembered it as if it was yesterday. The birth of his first child. An 
overwhelming sense of love and pride washed over him as he recalled holding 
Apollo for the first time.

Returning the picture to the book, Adama turned a few more pages and found a 
picture of Zac. Once again, the photo was taken mere centons after his 
birth. Another proud day in his life. Adama had taken some time off to be 
with his family. He had watched Apollo take his first steps, utter his first 
word and wanted to be there when Zac did the same. Turning the page, Adama 
came across a picture of Zac taken one yahren before his death. Gently 
tracing his fingers across the image, Adama remembered the pain he felt when 
Zac had died and the loss he still felt to this day.

Coming across a picture of Athena at five yahrens old, Adama remembered the 
day Ila told him she wanted another child. He wasn't so sure. Raising two 
sons was already a handful. Adama was content with what he had, but he knew 
how much Ila wanted a daughter.

When Ila told him she was pregnant, it was during a difficult time in their 
life. Adama was already second in command aboard the Galactica and preparing 
to leave for a one yahren tour of duty. Apollo was only four and Zac was 
almost two. He had reservations to begin with about leaving Ila alone with 
the two children. But now that she was pregnant again, he didn't feel right 
about leaving his family. He had voiced his concerns to Ila one night and 
she simply said that he needed to go. She knew from the moment she had 
married him what she was getting into and that it might come down to her 
raising the children alone for a time. She had accepted that fact a long 
time ago and that she and the children would be fine.

It had been too early in the pregnancy to determine the sex of the child, 
but Ila was positive she was carrying a girl. She told Adama that it just 
'felt different'. Ila also asked that the child be named Athena. To which he 
remembered replying, "Whatever you wish, my love."

Adama wasn't present when Athena was born. He remembered receiving a message 
from Ila congratulating him on becoming a father of a beautiful baby girl. 
Later that night, Ila had a video-link established to the Galactica from her 
hospital bed. Adama couldn't be there to hold Athena, a pain he has always 
deeply regretted. But this had been the next best thing. His daughter was 
absolutely beautiful. She had gorgeous blue eyes and a full head of black 
hair. Apollo and Zac also crammed their way into the video-link. Zac had 
turned two five sectars ago and was so proud to be a big brother. He 
promised Adama that he would help take care of his baby sister and play with 
her a lot. Apollo told Adama that he would take good care of the family 
while he was gone. He promised to 'help and protect' his mother and baby 
sister. Adama told Apollo and Zac that he was very proud of both of them and 
that he would be home in time for Apollo's next novayahren in 3 sectars.

With a heavy heart, he remembered the first time he held Athena. She was 
almost 4 sectars old by then. The tiny little girl screamed her lungs off 
the whole time he had held her; only settling down when she was returned to 
her mother's arms. Adama remembered thinking, *My own daughter doesn't even 
know me!* Ila knew her husband's thoughts and told him that Athena just 
needed to get used to Adama being around. But duty had called again and 
Adama was promoted to Commander of the Galactica and sent off on another 
mission. He never saw Athena take her first steps or heard her speak her 
first word.

But all Athena ever had to do was flash her soft, piercing blue eyes at him 
and Adama was mush in her hands. Leaning back into the cushion, Adama 
reflected for a moment. Did he allow her to turn him to mush because he was 
trying to make up for all the times he couldn't be with her? Did he expect 
any more, or less, of her then he did Apollo and Zac?

Shaking his head, Adama wondered where had that time gone? It seemed like 
just yesterday his children were just that - children. His thoughts quickly 
returned to the present when the video link chimed.
=============================================================
Athena slipped in and out of consciousness; the pain in her head never 
dulling. Despite Atreus' earlier promise that he would release her, she 
still remained here. Wherever 'here' was she had no clue. Surely someone 
must have realized that she was missing by now. Although, she did resign 
from bridge duty, so no one would notice when she didn't show up for her 
regular shift. And the way she stormed out of her father's quarters, Athena 
was sure that no one would be coming to find her soon. They would wait until 
she calmed down a bit. Just how long had she been here anyway?

Unable to sit up without the room spinning, she slowly rolled over onto her 
side. Now she was in a better position to observe Atreus. The room was dimly 
lit and what she could see, she still saw in double. Not a good sign. Athena 
knew that meant she had a concussion.

*Could what Atreus said really be true? Could he really be my father?* 
Athena thought to herself. *No, stop thinking like that! Your father is the 
same one you've had your whole life. You are the daughter of Commander 
Adama. He is your real father.* But doubts kept creeping back into her mind. 
*Just because you don't remember him visiting the house doesn't mean he 
never did. You were young; all you wanted to do was play. But how would he 
know about the oregg bracelet if he wasn't there? And why would Mother say 
that it was from Father if she didn't mean Adama?*

Athena sighed and raised her hand to her temple. Atreus heard her and came 
rushing to her side. "How do you feel Athena?"

Rolling onto her back again she ignored his question, instead asking, "Why 
haven't you let me go yet?"

Picking up her hand he replied, "Because you still don't believe that I'm 
your father."

She quickly jerked her hand away. "You didn't say I had to believe you! All 
you said was that I needed to listen to what you had to say; and I did. Now 
please, let me go!"

"Athena, you listened to what I said, but you didn't hear a word of it. You 
need time to let it sink it. I know that you still think Adama is your 
father and that I'm crazy. You think that I'm lying to you. But, sweetheart, 
I'm not."

"Then why did it take so long for you to come forward?"

Atreus smiled. "I didn't want to interfere in your life. You were happy and 
you had a good family. I had every intention of leaving you alone."

"So why didn't you?"

"Because I've seen how unhappy you've been for the last yahren. You've been 
keeping to yourself a lot lately, Athena. You've seemed depressed and 
extremely sad. I couldn't stand by and let you keep hurting. You are my 
daughter and I love you very much. I want you to be happy."

"But what about my family?"

"Apollo and Zac are still your brothers. They're just half-brothers now. 
Although I don't think that's going to stop Apollo from calling you 'Brat'."

"How did you know ..."

"Because he's always called you that. Although back then, I think he really 
meant it. Now, it's more of a term of endearment. It's just Apollo's way of 
saying he loves you."

Athena whispered, "I know he loves me. Too much so sometimes"

Atreus continued, "And, of course, there's Starbuck. He's still a member of 
your family, right? That part won't change. The only thing that's going to 
change is that Adama isn't going to be your father. I am. I'm not asking you 
to cut him out of your life, Athena. All I'm asking is that you make room 
for me. I know you look at me as the bad guy in all of this, but it's really 
not that way."

"If I was such a horrible person, I would just stand by and let you be hurt 
by Adama. But I can't do that. I love you Athena. You're the only child I 
have and I won't deny that I'm your father any longer." Standing up he said, 
"In fact, I'm placing another call to Adama again, just to keep him up to 
date on how thing's are going. Why would I do that if I was such a bad 
person?"

Athena was speechless. *Maybe he really is my father,* she thought.

Turning onto her side, she watched Atreus power up the video-link. "Do you 
think I could speak to him?" Athena asked.

"We'll see how the conversation goes, honey. I'll make sure he knows you're 
okay." Looking towards the video link he said, "Patch me through to 
Commander Adama."

"Hello Adama."

"Atreus," Adama said, trying to remain calm. "I want to see Athena."

Looking back to where Athena laid, Atreus said, "I'm not sure that's a good 
idea right now."

"Please. She doesn't even have to say anything. I just want to see for 
myself that she is all right," Adama pleaded.

Knowing that Athena heard Adama's question and not wanting to be the bad 
guy, Atreus agreed. Walking to Athena, he helped her off the cot and over to 
the video link. As they walked he said, "I don't want you to say anything to 
him, do you understand me?"

Athena nodded mutely.

When Athena appeared on the monitor, Adama took heart. *She's alive. Thank 
the Lords.*

"Make it quick Adama, before I change my mind," he heard Atreus say from off 
screen.

Adama noted that she still looked pale and tired. Her hair had dried blood 
in it and it seemed like she was having trouble focusing. "Athena, we miss 
you and we love you. I just wanted to make sure that you were all right. You 
are all right, aren't you?" he asked.

She looked up at Atreus, knowing that she wasn't allowed to answer any 
questions. But instead he indicated that she should nod yes. Looking back at 
Adama, she nodded.

"Good. Boxey misses you very much and he wanted me to tell you that he can't 
wait until you can finish that bedtime story for him. He refuses to let 
anyone else finish it."

Athena smiled as her eyes welled up with unshed tears.

Adama didn't want to say that Apollo, Starbuck, Sheba and the others were 
out looking for her. He feared that would prompt Atreus to keep them on the 
run. Then they'd never have a chance of locating her. "I know we quarreled 
the other day, Athena. But I want you to know that all is forgiven and that 
I love you very much."

A tear escaped and slipped down Athena's cheek. All caught up in her 
emotions she replied, "I love you too."

That's when she felt it. Atreus moved in and smacked her across the face and 
onto the floor; knocking whatever strength she had out of her. "I told you 
not to speak to him!" he yelled at her.

Adama could only watch in horror as Atreus smacked Athena. His heart dropped 
when he heard her cry out in pain and he realized there was nothing he could 
do to help her.

Adama could no longer reign in his anger. "What kind of father would hurt 
his daughter, Atreus?"

"Maybe you should ask yourself that question, Adama. Haven't YOU hurt Athena 
enough by not listening to her? By making her unhappy sitting up there on 
the bridge? By making her feel that anything she does doesn't measure up to 
what Apollo has achieved?"

He looked at Adama with disgust. "You are to blame for Ila's death! She 
should've been here on the Galactica, but you made her stay on Caprica. You 
killed her and you killed your son, Zac! I'm not going to let you kill my 
daughter too. Athena is all I have left."

Atreus momentarily looked down at Athena. Pointing at Adama he yelled, "You 
made me do this! This is all your fault! You drove me to this point!" 
Dragging Athena up off the floor, Atreus continued, "Take a good look at her 
Adama. Because this is the last time you're going to see Athena for a very 
long time!" He placed Athena squarely in front of the camera so Adama could 
see just how much pain he was forced to inflict on Athena.

Her lip was split and blood ran down the side of her mouth. Adama could 
clearly make out the purplish fingerprints that were beginning to form a 
handprint on her face.

Gathering what was left of her strength Athena muttered, "Good-bye, Adama," 
just before Atreus disconnected the link.

Adama stared blankly into the view screen; not fully believing what he had 
just saw and heard. He silently wondered if Athena was really starting to 
believe Atreus'story and his heart broke with the thought that he could lose 
his daughter

=============================================================

Apollo, Starbuck and the others had been searching for Athena for seventeen 
centars straight. None of them wanted to stop for a break, so they just kept 
at it. Adama had contacted the group and told them about Atreus' latest 
message. Apollo remembered the inflection in his father's voice when he said 
he thought Athena was beginning to believe Atreus' story. Although he feared 
for his sister, he couldn't allow this to cloud his judgment *Just keep your 
emotions under control and focus on finding Athena,* he thought.

Apollo looked up as Sheba came down the corridor. Shaking her head 
apologetically, she said, "Nothing."

Coming up from behind Apollo, Starbuck also shook his head no. "Does anyone 
need to take a break?" he asked.

"You two can take a break, but I want to keep going," Apollo replied.

"It's not going to do Athena any good if you collapse from exhaustion before 
you find her. Lets just take a few centons to grab some rations and water. 
Then we'll continue," Sheba said.

"Fine. But I'm only taking five centons then I'm starting the search again."

Sheba sighed. *Well, five centons is better then none. At least he'll have a 
chance to eat something quick,* she thought.

Apollo sat in the corridor and began to open his rations, not wanting to 
waste time. Starbuck sat across from him and Sheba sat next to Apollo.

After a centon of silence Sheba said, "Aren't you going to eat anything 
Starbuck?"

"No," he replied, "I just want to find Athena. I'm getting kind of worried."

Shaking her head at Starbuck, she wanted him to know that this was not what 
Apollo needed to hear right now. She started to say something when she was 
cut off by Apollo.

"Why didn't you tell me you asked my sister to be sealed to you?"

"I explained all this to you before Apollo."

Apollo was clearly angry. Throwing down his rations, he stood up. "Well, 
maybe I want to hear it again."

"Oh no, this can't be good,* Sheba thought.

Starbuck rose to meet Apollo. "Well, maybe I don't feel like talking about 
it again right now!"

Pointing a finger in Starbuck's face Apollo said, "You turned your back on 
Athena just when she needed you most! How could you do that to her? You kept 
telling me how much you loved her and how you would never hurt her!"

"I walked away because she turned me down!"

"She didn't turn you down! All she said was that she needed some time! TIME 
Starbuck, she said TIME!"

Sheba rose and stood between the two men.

Apollo continued his attack on Starbuck. "When Cain returned and Cassie 
asked you for time, that was okay with you! But when Athena asked, you left 
her! For Gods sake Starbuck  - we had just lost our mother and Zac! Athena 
was totally devastated and needed time to mourn....."

"All right that's enough! Both of you!" she yelled, pushing the two men 
apart. "Please explain to me how any of this is helping us find Athena?"

Starbuck spoke first. "Sheba's right. We can have this conversation later."

Apollo nodded. "We WILL continue this after we find Athena. Count on it."

"All right you two, let's get moving." Bending down to pick up her uneaten 
rations she thought, *So much for a break.*
=============================================================
Jerking Athena by the arm, Atreus moved her away from the video link and 
threw her down on the cot. Keeping a firm grip on her arm he yelled, "Adama 
made me do that! You know it was all his fault!"

She groaned as the harshness of his voice pounded through her head.

"We need to do something to stop that bleeding." Atreus stood and began 
looking for more medical supplies. Finding the sterile gauze, he knelt next 
to Athena and gently placed it against her mouth. "There we go."

Athena was so tired but she managed to say, "Water. Can I have some water?"

Atreus smiled. "Of course you can, honey." Reaching over to the bag, he 
produced a container of water. Lifting her head up, he slowly gave some to 
Athena until she indicated she had enough.

"There you go now. Just lay back and relax Athena. Try to get some rest." 
Atreus watched as her eyes started to slowly close. "I was so proud when you 
didn't call Adama 'Father'. I hope that means that you are beginning to 
accept me as your Father." He sat and watched her for a few microns until he 
knew she was sleeping. Reaching down into the bag, he produced another 
hypodermic needle. Rolling up Athena's sleeve, he injected her once again. 
Kissing her on the side of her cheek he said, "That'll make you feel much 
better. One more shot and we'll be all done. I promise."

He pushed back a stray lock of hair and tucked it behind her ear. "I know 
you miss Ila terribly. Never doubt that your mother would be very proud of 
you, Athena. She loved you very, very much. You held a very special place in 
her heart that not even Apollo or Zac could touch. Just remember her here," 
he placed a finger on her forehead, "and here," he pointed to her heart, 
"and she will always be with you."

"I have to check on something important, Athena. I'll be back as soon as I 
can. Don't worry, they won't find you." After he walked out the door, he 
turned and quickly sealed the room up again. Leaving Athena alone inside.
=============================================================
Adama's quarters.

Shaking his head, Adama looked over at Tigh. "I can't lose her Tigh. I just 
can't. I don't think I could survive losing another child."

"Adama, she's alive and you have to take heart in that. Apollo will find 
her; she'll be back here soon."

Adama had tears in his eyes. "She's my baby, Tigh. My little girl. I just 
want to hold her again and tell her how much I love her."

Placing a hand on Adama's shoulder Tigh said, "She knows you love her."

"You saw the last message Tigh. You saw the look in her eyes; the inflection 
in her voice as she said goodbye. It was as if she was saying goodbye 
forever. She didn't even call me 'Father'. I think she's beginning to 
believe Atreus and his stories."

"Maybe she's just playing along with him and waiting for a chance to 
escape," Tigh replied, trying to keep Adama's hope alive. "Athena is strong. 
If she can find a way to escape, or to send a message, you know she will."

Adama merely nodded in reply.

"I know what you're really afraid of, Adama," Tigh said softly. "You're 
afraid that Atreus really is Athena's father. And you're afraid that she'll 
turn away from you and not love you anymore; that she'll reject your love."

When he didn't reply, Tigh knew that he had pinpointed the problem. "You 
know that's not true. Athena loves you and no matter the outcome of all 
this, you are her father." Realizing he wasn't getting through to his 
friend, he continued, "The only way to settle this is with a blood test. 
When Athena is found, we'll have Doctor Salik administer a paternity test."

Adama agreed. He knew that was the only way to straighten everything out. 
But first things first. Athena had to be found and then Adama would worry 
about the paternity test.
=============================================================
Despite how tired she was, Athena's sleep was restless. *Could Atreus really 
be my father?* she wondered. He seemed to know things about her and her 
family that weren't common knowledge. And then there was the matter of the 
Oregg bracelet. She clearly remembered her mother saying that the bracelet 
was from 'your father.' Surely that meant Adama? Right? *It had to be from 
Adama. He is your father and he loves you very much.*

But what about Atreus' claims? How could they prove his claims true - or 
false -  for that matter? There was no one to ask. Ila had died just over 
one yahren ago and Athena was sure that if Adama had known about Atreus, he 
would've told her. If Atreus was her father, would that mean she would love 
Adama any less? *No,* she thought. Despite all her family's 
over-protectiveness and short comings, she loved them. *I know they love me 
too.*

There were just so many possibilities to consider and all of them sent 
Athena's head spinning - even more so then it was already. But one thing was 
for certain, she had to get out of here. After she received some medical 
attention and some food, she could think more clearly. Maybe after everyone 
sat down and discussed this, she would have some answers. If not, she knew 
that Doctor Salik would become involved and a paternity test would be 
ordered.

Athena was so hungry. She hadn't eaten in almost two days. Without some 
nutritional supplements or rations, she wouldn't be able to keep up what 
little strength she had left. Athena also felt very warm and nauseous. So 
either she had a fever, or this compartment was on fire. She hadn't felt 
this warm since the fire that trapped her, Boomer, Boxey and about sixteen 
others in the Rejuvenation Center.

Her thoughts were interrupted by Atreus' reentry. He quickly walked over to 
her cot, "We have to get out of here very soon. Adama has people searching 
for you."

Groggily Athena turned to look at him. "Please take me to Life Center. I 
don't feel very well."

"I wish I could Athena, but then Adama would take you away from me." Sighing 
he said, "I have someone who is going to help get us off the Galactica. I 
have to leave you again in order to make the arrangements, but I'll be back 
in a little while."

Hearing Atreus leave, Athena looked at the video link. If she could 
establish a connection to someone, they might be able to find her in time. 
But would she be able to power it up and get it working was another 
question. *It can't be any harder then anything I do on the bridge,* she 
thought. Placing her feet on the floor, Athena tentatively stood up. Her 
vision wasn't any better then before, but she had no choice. Activating the 
video link was her only way out.
============================================================
The sound of their boots echoed down the cold, gray, steel steps, boldly 
announcing their presence in yet another section. It was the same routine on 
every floor: Sheba took the compartments to the left, Apollo to the right 
and Starbuck went straight.

Another three centars had passed and still no sign of Athena; and Starbuck 
was feeling extremely guilty. Guilty for not treating Athena with the 
respect and honesty that she deserved, but also he was guilty for the fight 
he almost had earlier with Apollo. He knew that Apollo was more worried then 
anyone here. Athena is his sister after all and he had every right. Starbuck 
knew he should've backed off when Apollo started in with the whole sealing 
business again; and if Starbuck really took the time to think about it, he 
might have realized that Apollo was right. Athena didn't say no to him, she 
said she needed more time. And if Starbuck REALLY thought about it, he might 
realize that the feelings he had for her were still there.

Was he afraid? Afraid that he really did love Athena, but that she wouldn't 
give him a second chance? He did love Cassie, that much he was certain. But 
what he felt for Athena was far greater. It was something he couldn't even 
begin to express or to put into words. So if he couldn't put it into words, 
how could he explain it to anyone else, much less to Athena? Starbuck had 
never felt like this before in his life and it was something he didn't want 
to think about, or analyze, right now. They all needed to focus on finding 
Athena.

The more he thought about Athena being kidnapped by that deranged man, the 
more energy he had; the more desperate the search became - sometimes rising 
to a frenzied pace.

They were getting closer to finding Athena; Apollo said he could 'feel it'.

Starbuck hoped Apollo was right, because Athena was now missing for almost 
two days.
=============================================================
One centar had passed and Athena finally had some concept of how the 
video-link worked. She could feel the sweat tricking down her face, mixing 
with the blood from her injuries. Wiping her forehead, she sat back on her 
heels for a moment. She hadn't been paying attention when Atreus powered up 
the link, so she was just making an educated guess; a guess that just had to 
be right. She knew her life depended on it.

Her head was really pounding. The headaches she had earlier were nothing in 
comparison to what she was experiencing now. Although she was hungry, the 
double vision and dizziness, coupled with the on and off nausea, made it 
impossible to think straight; and made it even harder to concentrate. Right 
now she hurt so much, and was so desperate, that she would even accept 
Cassie being here to help her. Now that was saying a lot!

Not wanting to stand up for fear of passing out, Athena tilted the lens 
downward towards her. Her heart soared with hope when she booted up the link 
and the screen came on. It was staticky, but it was on and that's what 
counted.

Remembering Atreus' words she said, "Patch me through to Commander Adama."

A few microns passed and nothing happened. Rubbing her eyes, Athena tried to 
remain calm and focused. She began to fiddle with some wires, hoping that 
would do it.

She tried again. "Patch me through to Commander Adama."

Tigh and Adama were sitting in the living area talking when the comm 
activated.

Hoping that it was news about Athena, Adama hurried over to the unit. The 
reception was very erratic and the connection seemed unstable. But for one 
brief moment, Adama had a crystal clear view of the caller.

"Athena! Thank the Lords you're alive!"

Upon hearing Adama call out Athena's name, Tigh was at his side in a micron; 
relief and joy evident on his face.

"Athena where are you?"

There was no reply.

"Athena? Can you tell me where you are?" Adama repeated slowly and clearly.

"I don't know," was the staticky reply. "Maybe .... storage ... beta ..." 
the connection was starting to crackle and fade.

"The storage compartments in beta section?"

Athena shook her head. "Not sure."

"Apollo, Sheba and the others are near that area. We're getting closer to 
finding you so please just hold on."

"... moving ... off ... ship."

"He's going to move you off the Galactica?" Turning to Tigh, Adama said, 
"Get an alert out immediately. I'm not letting Atreus take her off this 
ship. Stop all outgoing launches if necessary! Notify Apollo and tell him to 
focus on beta section!"

Nodding in understanding, Tigh left.

"Are you all right?"

"Yes. Hurry."

Adama didn't like the sound of that. It may have been just the connection, 
but Athena sounded very weak and unsure of her health. "Have faith Athena. 
Your brother will find you, I promise you! You'll be home soon. We all love 
you."

Then the question that Adama never wanted to hear, came out. "Is Atreus my 
father?"

Adama paused, as he wasn't sure how to reply. "In my heart, you are my 
daughter."

That pause was all Athena needed. Now she knew that Adama wasn't sure 
either.

Adama got one more look at Athena before the link disconnected.
=============================================================
Upon receiving word from Colonel Tigh that Athena thought she was in beta 
section, both teams converged from different ends, in a pattern. They would 
leave nothing out of their search. They all took heart in the fact that 
Athena was alive and they were determined to find her.
=============================================================
Athena collapsed back on the cot; praying like she never prayed before, that 
Apollo would find her soon. Closing her eyes briefly, she tried to rest and 
regain some strength. Her head still hurt and she was sick of being in this 
room. She wanted to take a turbo-shower and eat a nice, hot meal. Silently 
she berated herself, *Oh stop whining, Athena. Things could be worse. Apollo 
is out looking for you right now. It's just a matter of time before he finds 
you. You know that he won't give up.*

The quiet of the room was shattered by the sound of Atreus returning. 
Looking to his right, he was happy to see that Athena was finally getting 
some rest. Moving to his left, he began to pack up the video link in 
anticipation of their move off ship, when something on the computer keyboard 
caught his eye. Blood. Bright red, fresh human blood. And since there was 
only one person in this room who was bleeding, and it wasn't him, he knew 
that Athena had tried to use the video link. But as to whether or not she 
was successful, given her state of mind, was another story. But he couldn't 
take any chances.

Looking over his shoulder at Athena, he became enraged. Grabbing her harshly 
by the arm, he jerked her up off the cot and over towards the video link. 
Shoving the keyboard in her face he yelled, "Who did you contact?" When 
receiving no answer he screamed, "TELL ME NOW!"

"No one! I couldn't get it to work," she lied.

"I don't believe you!" Then suddenly, and without warning, he threw Athena 
into the equipment. She went crashing to the floor, landing on her side, 
crumpled on the floor.

Jerking her by the arm, he ushered her up off the floor and out the door.

"Please let me go!" she begged. "I promise not to tell anyone if you just 
let me go!"

Atreus threw her into another room, adjacent to the one they were occupying. 
"Understand this right now!  The only place you're going is off this ship 
with me!" he said, producing a laser. Turning to the access control panel, 
he shot it so that Athena couldn't get out.

Looking up at Atreus from the floor, Athena was truly terrified. He had a 
laser. Where did he get that from? He didn't have one before.

Quickly taking one more look at Athena, he exited the room and made sure she 
was sealed in.

Even though she knew escape was impossible, she did everything she could 
think of to get out of there. But after what she estimated to be 15 centons, 
her vision started to blur and she became very dizzy. *Well, it's official,* 
she thought. *My whole body hurts now.*

As she curled up on the cold steel floor, Athena estimated that the barren 
room she was in was approximately 14 x 14 and had considerable more light 
then the previous room. Unfortunately the light didn't help her vision any. 
In fact, it made her headache much worse.

Slowly and quietly, the tears started to fall. She didn't want to die. Not 
here, not this way. It wasn't supposed to be this way! Silently, she prayed 
to her Mother and to Zac; alternating between, 'please don't let me die' and 
'I'll see you soon'.

Athena held out hope that Apollo would find her, but in case he didn't, she 
owed him an apology. Her earlier actions had been too harsh. She knew her 
brother had never wished she had died on Caprica. Apollo always meant well, 
and Athena knew he loved her very much. She conjured up an image of Apollo 
and began to explain things to him; began to apologize. She hoped that 
Apollo would understand that she had said those words in anger; she didn't 
really mean them. Athena hoped that Apollo knew just how much she loved her 
big brother.

Her last thoughts before passing out were, "Please find me Apollo. I need 
you."
=============================================================
30 centons later.

Starbuck quickly headed down the corridor, methodically checking the room on 
the right and then on the left; alternating down the corridor. At the very 
end on the right was one more room - the last room in his section.

There was something odd about the door, but he couldn't put his finger on 
it. Starbuck tried the door control, only to find that it didn't open. 
*Strange,* he thought. Trying it one more time, the door finally opened. As 
he crossed the threshold into the room, he wasn't prepared for what he 
found.

There, in the middle of the room, lay Athena. She was curled up in the fetal 
position with her arms wrapped around herself, laying as still as night; 
blood stains clearly visible on her blue uniform.

*She can't be dead! Dear God, NO!* Fearfully walking towards her, Starbuck 
softly said, "Athena?"

His heart leapt for joy as she slowly stirred.

As Athena turned her head to face him, she saw a pair of blue eyes staring 
down at her. Suddenly, she started screaming, "Get away from me!" as she 
tried to scoot back to the wall, away from him.

*Those blue eyes!* Athena thought to herself. *Atreus is back and he's going 
to take you away! You've got to get out. You've got to get away!*

Momentarily forgetting that he had a porta-link, Starbuck stuck his head out 
into the corridor and screamed, "APOLLO! I FOUND HER!! APOLLO!"

A micron later, Apollo came running around the corner and down the corridor, 
"Where is she?"

"In there."

As Apollo entered the room, he couldn't believe his eyes. His sister was 
huddled, knees to chest, against the wall. Even from this distance, he could 
clearly see the blood on her face, on her hands, in her hair and on her 
uniform. He could also see blood on the wall from where Athena had clawed at 
it, trying to escape. His first instinct was to rush over to her and to hold 
her; but in her state of mind, he knew that was a bad idea.

Apollo moved towards her slowly so as not to frighten her. He spoke softly, 
but firmly. "Athena? Athena, it's me. It's Apollo."

Believing she was hallucinating, Athena shook her head no.

Moving closer to her, he extended his hand. "It's me. It's Apollo," he 
repeated.

As Starbuck came up from behind Apollo, Athena screamed, "Get away from me! 
Gonna take me away!"

Not moving his eyes off of Athena, Apollo spoke to Starbuck. "Starbuck, take 
a few steps back." Leaving his hand extended, Apollo slowly, reached for her 
hand. Placing his hand on top of hers he said, "It's me, Athena. I'm real."

Athena looked up at him with tears in her eyes. "Apollo?"

As Apollo gently hugged her, she cried into his shoulder, "I'm sorry, 
Apollo. I'm so sorry!"

"Shhh. None of this is your fault." As he placed his arms underneath her, he 
said, "Right now we have to get you to Life Center."

As Starbuck turned around to leave the room, the door hissed closed. He 
immediately tried the door control only to find that it had been shot out. 
"Frack!"

Apollo was already standing with Athena in his arms when he heard the door 
close. He looked down at Athena's blood stained face then back up at 
Starbuck. "You've got to get that door open. She needs immediate medical 
attention!"

"Don't you think I already know that?" he shot back at Apollo. Finding his 
porta-link, Starbuck contacted Sheba. The wires had been fused together from 
the heat and he knew he couldn't get them out; they would have to call a 
technician.

"You got it Starbuck," Sheba replied. "A technician is on the way. Boomer 
also wants to take a crack at it. He thinks he might be able to bypass the 
effected wires."

"If anyone can get us out of here, it's Boomer. He was always good at hot 
wiring hovercrafts on Caprica."

Meanwhile, Apollo had moved to the far corner of the room with Athena. As he 
cradled her in his arms he asked, "Athena, can you tell me where it hurts?"

Her eyes didn't open as she softly replied, "Everywhere."

"We're going to get you out, so you just have to hang on, okay? Athena?"

But something was happening to her. Athena felt ... light; as if she didn't 
weigh an ounce. Slowly and painfully Athena moved her hand, and with all her 
strength, clasped her brothers jacket. "Apollo. Always remember ...., " she 
paused as her breathing became labored and Apollo could begin to hear a 
wheeze rattle in her chest. "Always remember that I love you. I'll be with 
.... Mama and Zac .... watch over you...."

And then Athena went limp in Apollo's arms. Apollo tried frantically to find 
a pulse; his mind refusing to believe what his eyes saw. She had stopped 
breathing; stopped moving.

Athena was dead.