Battlestar Galactica: Return and Escape Virtual Season 4, Episode 13 By Matt Wiser July 12, 2020 Prologue: "Jaden! We must hurry! The GSD are coming!" The Risik woman yelled to her male companion. They had just jumped out of a ground car in Capital Spaceport and were running towards a landing bay and some decrepit freighter. Behind them, several other cars screeched to a halt and their occupants piled out. These were the feared General Security Department, the Risik State's secret police. All were armed, and began to pursue the two fugitives. "I'm with you, Mesha," the man replied. He hadn't run this fast since his military service ended, a year and a half ago, and was running like a man possessed. His parents were dead, executed for "Subversive Activities Against the State", while his brother, charged with the same "Offense", had been taken away to a Special Regime Camp. Jaden-lan knew that the same fate awaited him if he was caught, and ran for the freighter. Two of their friends were at the boarding ramp, waving them on. Jaden and Misha ran up the ramp, and the two others followed. The ramp hissed shut, and a voice yelled from the cockpit. "Get strapped in, NOW!" The passengers-eight of them, all fleeing from the GSD, did so, quickly, getting into the seats in the crew lounge, as the ship's engines came to life. The freighter lifted off, and as it did, it drew fire from the Capital's defensive gun batteries. Just as it cleared the atmosphere, the freighter turned sharply several times as it fled the planet, before it reached Minimum Safe Distance, the distance from a world where one could safely engage the Star Drive. The ship shuddered from at least one hit, as someone was evidently shooting at them. The two looked at each other, then the others, all just as frightened as they were, before the ship engaged the Star Drive, going into Star-Speed. Then a man wearing the garb of a frieighter captain-a freelance one-came into the compartment. "I've outrun those GSD slugs, but they'll notify the Star Force." "Just get us to where we want to go," An older passenger, a man whose voice spoke with conviction as well as authority, said. The Captain had a scowl. He had heard about Picaja and his crew, captured by the Te'reans and forced to reveal vital information about the Chak system and Ne'Chak in particular. Their fate-execution-had been widely shown on the State Media channels, and on the news nets. "You'll get there, then I have to run somewhere myself." "We'll pay your fee," the man said. "If you couldn't, I wouldn't be taking you." "The traitors are headed where?" A Risik GSD Commander asked his deputy. "Towards Mut'la, then uncivilized space," his deputy replied. The Commander nodded. He was seated behind his desk in his office aboard the Pursuit Cruiser PC-3. A modified Exploratory Cruiser, it differed from its Star Force counterparts in having the lab area replaced by an interrogation and execution compartment, where those Enemies of the State who needed to "Disappear" while in space could be....dealt with. "And our orders are to either apprehend or destroy the traitors, even if they leave our space." It wasn't a question. "Exactly so, Commander!" The Commander stood up. He, too, had made his mark in the GSD. Though the number of traitors who actually tried to flee was small, there were smugglers and others who attracted GSD attention, and his apprehension rate of those.....scum was high. High enough to get an independent command. "Very well, then. Set a pursuit course immediately. Once they leave Mut'la, they will only have the barest of charts. We, however, are not so burdened. They will be searching for a habitable world, or...." "Or?" His deputy was puzzled. "Where else would they go?" "Either an uncivilized race, or they will find the Te'reans." The Commander glared at his deputy. The deputy nodded. "If they find the Te'reans, who knows what will happen next, after what happened at Ne'Chak." The humiliation inflicted by the Te'reans at Ne'Chak, where the Te'rean slaves-the only ones held by the Race, had been liberated, and the defending forces there wiped out, was something the State Media had been screaming about for days. And the fear was, not just in the GSD, but also in the Star Force, that the Te'rans would return for additional strikes. That was something no one wanted-at any cost. There was a grim smile on the Commander's face. "Exactly. Set that pursuit course at once." "Commander." A few tenarri later, the Cruiser dropped its moorings, engaged its sublight engines, and once clear of the base area over the Capital and MSD, went to Star Speed. Only this ship could outrun the traitors' freighter, so catching up to them, or better still, getting ahead and lying in wait along their likely course, was nothing but child's play to the Captain. FROM THE ADAMA JOURNALS: It has been several days since parting ways with the Eirenians, and the integration of the ships they have provided us continues to go smoothly. As for the computer virus that gave us so much trouble? Thanks to the efforts of Doctor Wilker and his staff, most notably Technician Hummer and Sergeant Komma, the virus has been contained, and after a very thorough check of all systems, the Galactica is back to full operational condition. Now, their focus is on the origin of the virus, and the creation of additional anti-virus software and firewalls, so that an event similar to this, or, the Lords forbid, worse, never happens again. The Fleet is still several days away from picking up once more our Epsilon Vector 22 heading to Earth. While there is no sign of any Risik pursuit at present, we are still within range of a Risik forward base. Until it is certain that we are clear of the Risik, the double patrols and Rules of Engagement regarding them remain in effect. Have we seen the last of the Risik? While our new friends from Earth hope so, that possibility does remain for a while longer. Our new travelers continue to do well with their recovery after so many yahrens in Risik captivity, and they are gradually becoming accustomed to a human society that, even before the Destruction of our Colonies, was well in advance of their own. And yet, since they are going home, they are doing their best to maintain, even so far from Earth, as many cultural, linguistic, and religious connections to their homeworld as the situation makes possible. If the positions were reversed, we would do the same ourselves. Preparations for the Welcome-Aboard Celebration aboard the Rising Star are almost complete, and in a few days, an evening that not only we, but all of our new travelers, can enjoy will be upon us. Chapter 1: Commander Adama left his cabin and went straight to the Bridge. After the excitement over the last couple of days, it was good to be back underway again. The Fleet was still three days away from picking up their Epsilon Vector 22 course for Earth, and even then, the Fleet was still in theoretical range of the Risik base at Mut'la, and until they were well and truly clear, Adama felt that their guard could not be let down for a moment. That decided, the Commander came onto the Bridge. "Good morning, Tigh," Adama said as he logged in. "Good morning, Commander," Tigh replied. "The overnight sitrep is ready. Doctor Wilker's people are going over the virus now, and Technician Hummer believes he can have new firewalls and software upgrades ready in three days, four at the most." The XO handed the Commander a pad with the information-not just on that, but on their patrols. "And the virus should be cleared out of our system sometime tomorrow." "Very good, Tigh," Adama said as he took the pad and skimmed the contents. "Anything new on where the virus came from?" "Not yet," Tigh shook his head. "Wilker's people are certain it wasn't from Brylon Station, because the coding's different from Zykonian software. Which means-" "Which means it had to have been installed on our system before then. What do the logs say about that?" Tigh consulted his own pad. "We had a systems upgrade to our computers about three sectars before we left for Cimtar. And it was Fleet-wide." Adama nodded grimly. "It fits. The final plan for the attack had probably not yet been decided, so the Cylons wanted us vulnerable, no matter what. If a task force is out on patrol, away from the Colonies, and suddenly goes blind and deaf, they're an easy target." "And they wouldn't know what was happening until the Cylon fighters were on top of them. Too late for any real defense." Adama nodded again. "And that's almost certainly what happened in the Colonies, at the defense command centers. The scanners go blind, and they have no idea what's coming. When the first wave does come in, it's way too late. And whatever fighters we did scramble were just brushed aside." "It fits," Tigh said. "Do you plan to discuss this with Baltar?" "In time, my friend. Not right now, though," said Adama. "Perhaps when we make another planetary stopover, we'll have a "walk in the woods", and have a conversation about this. A polite one, you understand?" The XO nodded. "Of course, Commander." Changing the subject, he went on. "Patrols continue to report all clear. No ships or signals of any kind detected." "For now," Adama said. He went to the plot board as Athena came up with the overnight scanner report. He examined it, then signed it with a stylus. "Thank you, Athena." "Father," she smiled. "Mut'la's still on the board. What's the limit of their range from there?" Adama asked. "Work in a Patrol or Exploratory Cruiser, and a long-range scout." Athena returned to her station, then worked in the request. "On the board, Commander." Adama and Tigh noted the range estimate. "They're still in range-but with each passing day, it gets less and less. They're limited by their supplies of food and fresh water," Adama said. He turned to Tigh. "This is uncharted territory for them and for us. That reaction force, if it hasn't been recalled yet, doesn't know we're not from Earth. What would you be doing, Tigh, in this area, if you were in command of that force?" Tigh studied the course the Fleet was on, and the systems on the board within range. "If it's not on the other side of their territory? I'd be checking out all the habitable worlds in this sector," he said. "For any sign of a forward base. Or a rendezvous with supply ships or tankers." Adama looked at the board and considered what Tigh had said. "Exactly." Adama nodded agreement. "I'd be dispersing that force to check all of those systems-and there's several uninhabitable ones in the sector as well. A rendezvous point could be anywhere, not just a habitable system," he said. "And that means if it came to it, we might face one or two cruisers, not the whole force." "Do you still want to bully or bluff our way out?" Tigh asked. Though the ROE still in effect meant that any Risik ships that detected the Fleet would have to be taken out instead. The question still had to be asked, though. "I'd like to, Tigh, but with their reaction force, or a scout out here on an exploratory mission, it might not be an option," Adama replied. "I don't want to kill any more of them than is necessary, but Captain Byrne's still right: we can't let any one of them get away with a sighting report." Tigh nodded. Like it or not, that meant that any Risik ship that detected the Fleet would have to be destroyed. "Yes, sir." "Let's hope it doesn't come to that, Tigh. Is that it for this morning's update?" Tigh checked his pad. "It is for now, Commander." "Very well," Adama nodded. "Thank you, Colonel." He then went to the Command Station. As the Commander looked out the bridge viewport, Adama still had thoughts of the Risik in his mind. You're still out here, somewhere, he thought. And we may not be done with you just yet. Just after noon, Fleet time, aboard Constellation, Captain Kevin Byrne was going through with his usual post-watch inspection. Every day, after his bridge watch and lunch, he made it a point to have a walk around the ship. Not just to see for himself that there were no technical issues with his ship, but to chat with crew, civilians, and the half of the refugees from the Ne'Chak slave camp who were aboard (the others were aboard Adelaide). Constellation was a happy ship at the moment, and had been for some time, and he wanted to make sure that she stayed that way. Byrne's last stop before returning to his cabin to attend to the paperwork that seemed never-ending was the ship's child-care center. Formerly one of the late and unlamented Krylon's smuggling compartments, it was now busy, with not only several small children who had come aboard with their parents, but two births around the time of the Il Fadim mess, and four babies from the refugees. One had been born in the camp, while the others, triplets, had been born aboard ship to a mother rescued from the camp. So as far as Captain Byrne was concerned, they were not just shipmates, but the most precious cargo aboard. Such thoughts were in his mind as he came in, and found the Center's director, Ensign Anna Popava, Soviet Air Force. She, too, had been rescued from the camp, and in that hellhole, had been the only human medic, in charge of the camp infirmary, but also the nursery for the babies. Though a Warrant Officer by American or NATO terminology, Byrne was respectful, and always addressed her by her Soviet-era rank. "Ensign," he nodded. "Captain!" Popava said. "Nice of you to drop in. What can I do for you?" "Just having my daily look," Byrne replied cheefully. Though uncomfortable with the idea of civilians, especially women and children, aboard a warship, he knew the Colonial Fleet's circumstances left no other choice, for even the Galactica had civilians-though they were almost all family members of crew. Well, make the best of it, he thought, and to use a phrase common in the U.S. Military, "overcome and adapt." He took a look around and saw his daughter helping one of the three triplets. "And Jen's putting her new child-care skills to work." "She's a natural," Popava smiled. "Someday, she'll make a wonderful mother." The thought of his daughter becoming a mother was still new. "Nothing wrong with getting some advanced training, as I told Cassie," Byrne replied. "But she's not even out of High School yet, and if we get home in time, she may want to go to Annapolis." He saw the SAF Ensign look at him strangely. "That's the U.S. Naval Academy. Or maybe MIT, Cal Tech, or Johns Hopkins. She doesn't know whether to follow my footsteps, or her mother's." "Ah, I see," Popava said. "She's still a natural with babies." Byrne had heard the same from Cassie on Galactica, but it still pleased him, nonetheless. "Good to see, always. Ensign, if there's anything you need for your charges, let me know and I'll see what we can do." "Certainly, Captain," Popava smiled. Then the ship-wide PA blared. "Bridge to Captain Byrne." "Excuse me," Byrne said. He went over to the telecom. "Byrne here. Yes, Mr. Dante?" The XO came on the line. "Captain, the Galactica has gone to Condition Two, and the Fleet is on an increased alert. Two ships have been spotted on scanners, and fighters are being launched to intercept." "ID on the bogeys?" He asked. "Bogey" to him, meant "Unidentified Aircraft", or, in this case, "Spacecraft." "Not at the moment, sir. Too far away as yet." "Very well. Go to Condition Two, and I'll be right there." "Aye, sir." Byrne turned to Popava. "I think you all should stay here. We might be going to General Quarters at any moment." He saw Popava and the others nod, then he raced for the Bridge. Aboard the Galactica, at her terminal, Athena had spotted the contacts. "Commander, ships on long-range scan." Adama turned to her. "Can you scan for identification?" Here, it could be the Risik, or it could be a new and unknown race, whose attitude towards the Fleet would be equally unknown. Unless they had trouble with the Risik themselves previously.... "No, sir. They're too far away. The contacts are barely on scan as it is," Athena replied. "Very well," Adama said. "Omega, transfer that data to my console, please." The Bridge Officer nodded. "Transferring, Commander." The two blips appeared on one of the monitor screens. "They're approaching a star system. It's got a K2V Orange main-sequence star, eight planets, with one in the life zone," Athena called. "No further information." Adama nodded, then, as he looked at the monitor, considered his options. "Colonel, which squadron's on alert?" "Blue Squadron, sir," Tigh replied. "Very well," Adama said. "Omega, get me Baltar." On the Base Ship, Baltar, Ayesha, and Starbuck had been finishing lunch. Starbuck, who was in the middle of one of his regular tours as Liaison Officer, frankly enjoyed Ayesha's cooking, and he remembered that, in her old identity as Claudia, she had almost become his stepmother. Talk had gone from old times in the yahrens before the Holocaust, to Ayesha's cooking, but one topic returned to the fore. Would they have one more encounter with the Risik? And that was on everyone's mind, both organic and otherwise. "And what would your odds be on that, Lieutenant?" Baltar asked. Starbuck thought for a centon. Then he made up his mind. "Better than even, I'd say." Baltar nodded. No one in the Fleet-or the Cylons, had ever come across a race this tenacious, and yet, one had to give them a grudging respect. The two cruisers that had charged the Base Ship and the Galactica, or the patrol vessel that had charged the Constellation, had gone straight into the guns, knowing they weren't coming back. "And knowing you, I'd have to say you're probably right," Baltar said. Then Moray's voice came over the Com. "Commander Baltar to the Command Center." "Shall we?" Baltar asked. He and Starbuck got up from the table and went to the Command Center where Moray, Baltar's deputy, waited. "Yes, Moray?" "By your command," the Command Centurion replied. "We have detected two contacts on long-range scan. They are too far away for identification. And Commander Adama is on the Fleet Com-line." "Very well," Baltar nodded. The main viewscreen came to life. "Yes, Adama?" "Baltar, are you picking up the same scanner contacts we are?" Adama asked. "We are." Adama nodded, then made his decision. "I'm about to launch Blue Squadron's alert flight. Captain Apollo and Flight Sergeant Brie. Would you have Strike Leader Orion and his wingmate rendezvous with them? They'll investigate the contacts. And the prior Rules of Engagement are still in effect." "Understood," Baltar said. He turned to Moray. "Moray, see to the launch." "By your command," Moray replied. He relayed the order, and two Raiders launched from the Base Ship, as two Vipers did the same from the Galactica. "Fighters launched and on course." "Thank you, Baltar," Adama said over the com. "As a precaution, I'm bringing the Fleet to Condition Two." "Prudent," Baltar nodded. He passed the order to Moray, and additional pilots went to their ships, while half of the ship's gunners reported to their stations. "Now comes the hard part." "Yes, the waiting." As the alert fighters closed with the two scanner targets, both flight leaders expected something. For Apollo, it was a gut feeling that the Fleet hadn't yet seen the last of the Risik, while for Orion, it was simply logic that dictated another encounter, as long as the Fleet was in space that, in theory, may have been scouted by the Risik. And as the four-ship closed into range of their own scanners, one way or another, they would find out. But it was Brie who called it first. "Apollo, they're close enough to scan. First one....Risik, but..." "But what?" Apollo asked as he scanned the targets. "His power curve's lower than the cruiser's. Just like that smuggler ship." "Confirmed, Captain," Orion added. "The target appears to be a civilian. And he is showing signs of damage." Apollo then scanned the other target, the one that appeared to be pursuing the first one. "Scanning the second....Oh, Frak!" "What is it?" Brie replied. "It's a Patrol Cruiser!" Apollo called. And a quick look at his scanner showed the active scanner emissions coming from the cruiser. "He might have us on scan." "Verified, Captain," Orion said. "Target's scanners are fully active." Mettius, Orion's wingmate, called in. "They are also tracking us with their turrets." Then red beams of laser fire came from two of the turrets, and both Vipers and Raiders broke to avoid the fire. "We're in Com range of the Fleet," Apollo said. "Just." He then hit his auto-distress, then made the call. "Blue Leader to Galactica." "Come in, Blue Leader," Omega's voice came back. "One of the targets is a Risik Patrol Cruiser, and it's firing on us. We can use some help." "Copy, Blue Leader. Stand by." Omega then turned to Adama. "Commander, Blue Leader reporting in. One of the targets is a Risik Patrol Cruiser, and the patrol is being fired on." Adama scowled, then checked the plot board. The Risik just didn't want to let go. He considered his options, then nodded. "Colonel, launch the remaining alert fighters, and have them rendezvous with Blue Leader's patrol," he ordered. "Inform Baltar, then bring the Fleet to Condition One." "Commander," Tigh replied, then he relayed the order. On both the battlestar and the Base Ship, alert pilots manned their fighters, then launched. While that happened, the General Alarm sounded, sending crew to their battle stations. "Battle Stations sounded, and alert fighters launched, Commander." "Get me Baltar, Omega, and Captain Byrne." "Right away, Commander." In microns, the connections were made, and both appeared on separate monitors. "I have both of them on the line, Commander." "Yes, Adama?" Baltar came up. "Commander?" Byrne asked. "Gentlemen, it appears we're not finished just yet with the Risik. Blue Leader's alert flight has encountered and been fired on by a Patrol Cruiser," said Adama. "We're going to assist, and maybe, just maybe, we can bully or bluff our way out of this." "I see," Baltar nodded. "The intimidation factor is at work here." Battles one could win without firing a shot were those that were to be treasured. More so than one soaked in blood. Adama nodded back. "Exactly." "That may not work, Commander," Byrne pointed out. "If the captains who patrol their frontier or beyond it are like Lemeshik was, they'll be just as loyal, and just as quick on the trigger." Adama understood that, and it had been discussed before. "Understood, Captain, but at least we can say that we tried." He came to his decision. "Launch our remaining squadrons, and inform Commander Allen on the Adelaide. He'll be in command of the Fleet during our brief absence." "Right away, Commander. The fighters' orders?" Tigh asked. "Protect the Fleet along with Adelaide and the Century," Adama said. "Once the fighters are launched, let's give Apollo and his patrol some additional backup," the Commander smiled. "Yes, sir!" Once the fighters were launched, the Galactica, Base Ship, and Constellation turned to follow the alert force's wake. On the cruiser, the Risik Commander was furious. Not just with the traitors, who had refused to surrender their ship, but with these....Te'reans for interfering. A few shots in their direction had sent them running, but the Commander now wanted more. "Launch our two scout ships. Have them follow the traitors. We'll handle these....Te'reans." "Commander," the First Officer replied. "And then what?" "Maybe we can apprehend a prisoner for interrogation. Find out where they're headed, and if they plan to return," the Commander snarled. "Do it!" "Commander," nodded the First Officer. Two discus-shaped scout ships launched from the cruiser, and followed the freighter, while PC-3 followed the fighters, firing on them as it did. "They're persistent," Apollo said as the red beams tried to follow his Viper, but just as with their initial engagement with Lemeshik's ship, the Vipers and Raiders were too fast for the Risik fire-control to get a proper solution. "But not accurate," Orion said as the fighters got out of Risik weapons range. "Our ECM is very effective." In her Viper, Brie was in agreement, but one of the Risik beams had been too close for comfort. "Accurate enough to scorch some paint," she said, as a laser shot had near-missed her nose. Apollo nodded, then looked at his scanner. Two Risik scouts had launched and were following the freighter. "Did anyone scan the ship for humans?" "Negative, Captain," Orion said. "They fired on us before we could do so." "Orion, let's go back in. You and me. Brie? You and Mettius cover us." "By your command, Captain," Orion said as the two fighters went back into range. They didn't need long. "Scan complete. Negative for Human life signs." Apollo looked at his own scanner. It said the same thing. "All right, let's get out of here. We'll reform out of range, then follow them." The Viper and Raider did an about-face, with red beams flying all around, then as they reformed, Brie checked her scanner. "Apollo!" "What?" "Look at your scanner. The rest of Blue, and Squadron One, are coming in, and the big ships are right behind them." "Just like the first time," Apollo thought aloud as the fighters came into visual range. "Apollo," Dietra's voice came over the com. "You guys mind if we come to the party? And we brought some friends." Right now, she didn't care if the Risik heard them, for if they did, and saw two squadrons' worth of fighters, and three of the Fleet's biggest ships right behind them, they were in for the shock of their lives. Briefly, she thought. "Commander, they've launched their scout ships," Athena reported on Galactica's Bridge. "Course?" Adama asked. "They're following the first ship. Scans indicate he's about the size of the smuggler's ship, and the same power curve. The ship has signs of damage." "Damage?" Tigh asked. "They're pursing him for some reason." "Especially if he's wanted by their authorities," Adama noted. Athena focused her scanners on the civilian ship. "He's being fired on by the scout ships." "That settles it," Adama said. An old adage from Pre-Colonial days, and one shared on Earth, came back. "My Enemy's Enemy is my Friend." It was certainly applicable in the Colonies, and all the same out here. "Very well, Tigh. Order the fighters to engage the scout ships. And get me both Baltar and Captain Byrne." "Commander," Tigh said. A micron later, both Baltar's and Byrne's faces appeared on separate monitors. "Baltar, let's get the cruiser in a crossfire, just as we did with Lemeshik's relief, back at the Greenhouse World," Adama said. "The Galactica will take the right flank." "And we'll take the left," Baltar replied. Just like it was before. "When do you want to open fire?" "Fire if and when the Galactica does," said Adama. "Don't wait for my order. Captain?" He said to Byrne. "Take the Constellation in behind him, and if he does try to make a run for it, he's yours." "If he runs, he'll go right into our waiting arms," said Byrne, a smile on his face. "We'll take him." "Very well. Let's execute." "Commander, Captain Apollo on the line," Omega told the Commander. Adama put on a headset. "Yes, Apollo?" "Commander, we've scanned that ship for Human life signs. Scans are negative," Apollo called. "Orion?" The Cylon strike leader responded right away. "Confirmed, Commander. Negative human life signs. All are Risik." Adama nodded. "You've received your orders from Colonel Tigh?" "Affirmative," Apollo replied. "We have," Orion added. "Very well. After you've killed the scouts, escort that other ship in. They were shooting at him for some reason, and I'd like to know why." In his Viper, Apollo checked his scanner. The two scouts were still pursuing the civilian ship. "We're on our way, Commander. Orion, let's go. Blue Squadron, on me." "All crews, arm weapons," Orion ordered. "Stand by to attack." The scout ship crews were so eager to attack and disable the target freighter that they suffered from target fixation, and weren't paying enough attention to their scanners. That was not only a big mistake, but their last, for it was only at the last possible moment that they saw the Vipers and Raiders closing in. By then it was too late. "All right, Blue Squadron, Engage!" Apollo called as the scouts came into range. These scouts were just as tough as the two engaged over the Greenhouse World, for as both squadrons came in and attacked, the first pass was only enough to disable them. It took a second pass for Apollo's Vipers to get in a killing shot, which penetrated to the scout's fusion drive... "Got him!" Dietra yelled as the scout became an orange-red fireball. Simultaneously, the Raiders of Squadron One came in onto their scout. It,too, was disabled on the first pass, but,as the Cylons turned for a second strike, something unexpected happened. Before any of the Raiders could shoot, the scout exploded in a ball of fire. Whether it was from damage, or the scout's crew engaging their self-destruct system, no one would know. "Target destroyed," Orion said over the com. "No losses." "All right," Apollo said. "Deitra, take half of the squadron, along with your counterpart, and escort that freighter in. Keep clear of the battle until it's over. Orion, follow me. We might still have some work to do." "Roger, Apollo," Dietra called. "By your command, Captain," Orion added, as half of his squadron formed up with Apollo's half of Blue, and headed for where the capital ships were about to engage. "Scout ships destroyed, Commander," Omega reported on Galactica's bridge. "We're facing a Patrol Cruiser," Athena confirmed from her scans. "His sensors are fully active, and...." "Yes?" Adama asked. "Confirmed nuclear devices in the bow missile tubes," reported Athena. "And..." "And?" "He's hailing us." Athena reported. She was surprised, given these...people's reputation. Adama was just as surprised. "Hailing us? Feed that up here, Omega," What did this Risik captain want? "Yes, Commander, and the Languatron is engaged," said Omega, as a Risik officer appeared on a monitor. "This is.." Adama began, but he was rudely interrupted by the Risik. The man sneered. "I know who you are....Commander Adama. I am Commander Tserlan of the Risik State General Security Directorate. I demand that you return the slaves you took from Ne'Chak, and the Traitor Melnea, at once. Or suffer the consequences." Hearing that, Adama was surprised at the gall of the man. Before he responded, he nodded to Omega. "Are Baltar and Captain Byrne receiving this?" "Relaying it, Commander," Omega replied. On the Base Ship, both Baltar and Starbuck were surprised, as was Ayesha. They heard the Risik officer's demand, and they all shook their heads. "What kind of felgarcarb was that?" Ayesha said, surprising both Baltar and Starbuck. "He's pretty impudent, I'll grant you," said Baltar. "Of course, since he's from their Secret Police, his orders may not give him any choice." "Looks that way," Starbuck agreed. "He's got to be totally loyal." Moray said, "Logically, on their Frontier or beyond it, their commanders' orders may not allow for any kind of deviation or initative. In a state such as theirs, that would be paramount." Baltar nodded. "True, Moray, but he and his crew may very well pay for that." That, he knew, would be the supreme penalty. "He's got a lot of pogees," Mr. Agron observed on Constellation's bridge. The Second Officer had a grin on his face on hearing the demands. "For how long?" Ensign Alyssia, the GQ Communications Officer, asked. Byrne had a grim smile on his face as he replied, "With that kind of attitude? Not much." "I repeat, Commander," Tserlan said. "I demand the return of the slaves from Ne'Chak, and the Traitor Melnea, at once." Adama had a stern expression on his own face. "Out of the question, Commander. We are out of your space, and you have no authority here. The refugees from Ne'Chak were taken illegally from Earth against their will, and we are taking them where they belong, which is home. As for Melnea? She has requested asylum in this Fleet of her own free will. Which has been granted in accordance with our laws." Adama was hoping to keep him talking as long as possible, and maybe, just maybe, he'd realize just how bad a situation he was in, and turn about. "You have no right!" Tserlan yelled over the com. "Return them or suffer the consequences! This is your final warning!" Clearly, the man was losing his temper, Adama thought. "I would remind you that your ship is not only outnumbered, but considerably outgunned. No more blood needs to be shed over this matter-" "Then, Commander, here is my response to the raid on Ne'Chak!" The screen then went blank. "Transmission terminated, Commander," Omega said. "At the source." "Damn," Adama said. "Omega, power up our own ECM. If he fires, jam the missiles." "Yes, Commander. ECM and defense batteries ready." Tserlan turned to his weapons officer. "Target the....Battlestar with four missiles, and the...Base Ship with four. Report when you have a firing solution." The weapons officer worked his controls, then replied, "Solution set and ready on both targets." "Fire!" "He's firing on us, Commander. Four missiles targeted on the Galactica, four on the Base Ship," Omega reported. "Full ECM, now," Adama said. "Commander." "Four missiles inbound," Moray said. "Commence jamming, and if necessary, point defense fire," Baltar ordered. "By your command." Any kind of point defense fire was unnecessary from either ship as the missiles flew wildly when they were hit by the massive blast of ECM from both capital ships. After the missiles' fuel ran out, their warheads, "salvage-fuzed," went off in end-of-run detonations. "Multiple nuclear detonations, Commander," Omega said. "Computron readout shows yields in the fifteen-kiloton range." "They'll be busy reloading," Tigh observed. "Let's not give them that chance," Adama said. Hopefully, this would be the last battle with the Risik. "Target that ship and fire." "Commander," Omega said, as heavy turbolaser fire from the battlestar's forward batteries tore into the Cruiser. "Let's end this now," Baltar said as the Galactica opened fire. Since Adama had already given the order, there was no need to wait. "Target his engineering section. Fire when ready." "By your command," Moray said. "Target locked and batteries ready to fire." Baltar turned to Starbuck, who nodded, then he said, "Commence firing." The Base Ship's own heavy turbolasers opened fire immediately after. "We're taking fire!" The first officer shouted on PC-3's bridge. "Damage?" Tserlan said as sparks flew across several bridge consoles. "Extensive forward and aft, in both Engineering and near the magazines!" "Vent the magazines to space," Tserlan said, the ship shuddering from numerous hits. "Return fire!" "Fires spreading!" The Damage-Control Officer shouted. "Magazine and engineering temperatures approaching critical!" As lights flickered on the bridge, Tserlan went to a station and read into a microphone. Then the ship's buoy was launched. "Long live the Supreme Leader-" he said as the bridge came apart around him, and everyone was engulfed in fire. The last sensation was the heat..... On all three ships, those on the respective Bridges or Control Centers watched as red and blue streaks of fire tore into the Cruiser, then it exploded in a large orange-red ball of fire. Scanner screens flickered as radion flashed across the spectrum, then it dissipated into space. "Risik ship destroyed, Commander," Omega reported. "Very well," Adama said. "Long-range scan?" "Scanners show all clear, Commander," Athena replied. "Other than the Fleet, no other ships detected." "Any signs of escape pods? Survivors?" "Negative, Commander. No survivors." Adama nodded, then thought for a few microns. "Very well. Secure from Battle Stations. Omega, signal the Base Ship and the Constellation. Secure from Condition One and go to Condition Three." "Commander," Omega said, then he relayed the message. "Who's escorting the freighter?" "Dietra and her counterpart, Commander," Tigh replied. Adama checked on the scanner, then nodded. "All right, Tigh. Have them escort that freighter to the Galactica's Beta Bay. Have Doctor Salik and a medical team ready to meet them, along with some of Major Croft's SF team. That ship was being pursued for some reason, and I, for one, would like to know why." "More smugglers?" Tigh offered. Where there had been one, there would be more, he knew from experience. "Or dissidents?" Athena added. "Melnea can't be the only one still breathing." Adama nodded. "Both are equally possible," he said. "Let's find out, shall we? Colonel, see to that immediately." Tigh nodded. "Commander." Chapter 2: Aboard the freighter, the occupants, both crew and passengers, were quite nervous. They had been found, approaching a system that the Captain had thought no one would be at, where they could get some fresh water, only to find a Pursuit Cruiser waiting for them. The Captain had tried to evade the cruiser, and the scout ships it had launched, only to find that the Te'reans were in the vicinity, and had sent fighters out. Amazed, those aboard watched as the scouts were dispatched with hardly any effort at all by the fighters, and as the cruiser approached three capital ships, two of them far, far larger than anything in the Star Force, and the third, merely four times as large, the freighter's occupants watched as the cruiser was easily blown out of space by the two largest ships. Just after that, the Captain tried to move away from the engagement, only to find that fighters of two types were surrounding his ship. Sitting in the pilot's seat, he turned to his left, and out that viewport, he saw a fighter with three engines, and lines that made it just as capable in the atmosphere as well as space, and the pilot gesturing to him with hand signals, and the pilot clearly was a Te'rean. With a damaged ship, and seeing himself boxed in, it was a good idea that he'd better do what these Te'reans told him to. So he followed the fighters in, towards the largest ship he'd ever seen, a massive vessel with two outrigger structures, and yes, they appeared to be landing bays. Telling everyone to strap themselves in, he followed the fighter that had signaled him in. "Freighter coming in, Commander," Omega reported. "LSO reports they have control." "Very well, Omega," Adama said. "Once the occupants have been checked out by Dr. Salik's people, and their ship searched by Major Croft's, we'll need to talk to them." Adama thought for a centon, then nodded. "Signal the Constellation. Request the presence of Captain Byrne, Lieutenant Sanderson, and Sergeant Wagner aboard the Galactica, and contact the Adelaide. Let's get Commander Allen over here as well." "Yes, Commander," Omega said. "Tigh, let's get the heavy ships back to the Fleet, recall our airborne fighters, and pick up our course." "Right away, Commander," said Tigh. Aboard Constellation, Captain Byrne got the message, and had both Lieutenant Amy Sanderson and Staff Sergeant Lauren Wagner paged over the PA, to meet him in the Docking Bay. He went to his cabin, and printed out his notes on past interrogations of Risik, then went to meet the other two. For Lieutenant Amy Sanderson, USMC, who had been the highest-ranking military woman in the slave camp, this was her first real assignment since the rescue mission, and taking charge of the Constellation's newly formed Boarding and Landing Party. She, like Sergeant Wagner, had been issued a Colonial Laser Pistol, but like the Sergeant, preferred the tried and true. Unlike the Sergeant, Sanderson stuck with a SiG-Sauer P226-one of the copies of a weapon from the Saint Brendan. The Lieutenant had been in her office-newly built thanks to Mr. Dilley's damage-control people, and right next to a vacant compartment that, she had been told, had been used for smuggling by the ship's late and unlamented previous owner. That compartment was being converted into a training area, but the pace of the work was slow. In time, though, it would be enough for their needs. Though for weapons training, they'd have to go to Galactica, and use the SF team's range. She heard the PA call, and went to the Docking Bay, and though she knew her way around the ship by now, it was still...intimidating at times. "You'll get used to it, Marine," she said to herself, echoing one of her instructors post-Quantico, when she was training to deploy to Saudi for the Gulf War. When she got to the Docking Bay and the Shuttle Armstrong (named for Neil Armstrong, she was glad to see), she found her deputy there, already waiting. "Sergeant," she said. "Ma'am," Staff Sergeant Lauren Wagner said. She had been the first Earther recovered from the Risik, though unlike the former prisoners, she had been found in a derelict Risik ship in a stasis pod. Now, she was an integral part of the crew, and, when not on duty as the Constellation's Master-at-arms, was helping the other refugees with the adjustment process. Some were coming along more quickly than others, but all would adapt, given time. And that, as Commander Adama had said more than once, was the one commodity the Fleet had in quantity. "Still going with the SiG-Sauer, I see." "Had a 9 mil in Saudi," Sanderson replied. "Nothing wrong with that; it's lighter and has more magazine capacity," she added. "But you're sticking with that SEAL weapon." Wagner grinned. "Well, Ma'am, I used it on the raid, and nobody I shot ever got back up again." Unknown to them, Captain Byrne had arrived, and was overhearing their conversation. Arguing over the merits of a particular weapon? Another sign they're settling in and getting close to something resembling normality, he thought. "Always a powerful argument in favor," he said. "Captain," Sanderson replied as both saluted. "What's up with a trip to Galactica, sir?" Byrne returned the salutes, then nodded. "The cruiser the Galactica and Base Ship took out? He was chasing one of their own freighters. No idea why, but he may have been a smuggler." Hearing that, Wagner had a scowl on her face. "Just like that dirtbag we released?" "Maybe, Sergeant," Byrne said. Ensign Adele came out of the shuttle. "Sir, ready to go?" "Let's get to Galactica," said Byrne. "And I do know your new crew member," he joked as Petty Officer Jessica Clemens came out. "Like your new job, Petty Officer?" Clemens grinned, "Sir, I love it. Almost like being on a UH-46 again. Adele thought she needed a Loadmaster, and I was the first person she asked. And she showed me some covers that look like hatches-one on each side. They cover windows that you can open in an atmosphere, and they have pintle mounts." Lieutenant Sanderson recognized it before the Captain. "For door guns." "Yes, Ma'am, and if we can find some, they might come in handy. Out here, you never know." Byrne nodded "Point taken, Petty Officer. We'll talk to Major Croft and see what they can do. Let's get going in the meantime." The group got aboard and strapped in. Then Adele called the Bridge for departure clearance, then she flew the Armstrong out of the docking bay and towards the Galactica. When the shuttle arrived, they found the shuttle from Adelaide had already arrived. They disembarked, and Byrne turned to Adele and Clemens. "No telling how long we'll be here. You two head on to the Club. Tell Freeman anything you order is on my tab." "Yes, sir!" Adele replied, while the Petty Officer grinned. Nothing like a drink or two-nonalcoholic in this case, as both had to be ready to fly, but yet, on the CO's tab. Both headed to the Officer's Club, while Byrne and his people found Commander Cedric Allen, RAN, talking with Colonel Tigh. "Colonel," Byrne said. "And Ced." "Captain," Tigh replied. "I was just about to tell Commander Allen, but since you're all here; the Commander wants a report as soon as possible about that ship, and the crew. We need to know what they were doing here, in what's uncharted territory for the Risik." "And why they were being chased," Byrne said. "Exactly, Captain," Tigh said. "The crew should be out of Life Center when you're finished with that ship." Byrne and Allen nodded. "Then we'd best get busy," said Byrne. After they went from Alpha to Beta Bay, the freighter sat on its outrigger-type landing gear. "A little bigger than our previous friend's ship," Allen noted. A work bench sat nearby, with various tools. As they decided what they needed, Lieutenant Castor came down the ship's boarding ramp, wearing the Air Force-style camouflage uniform that the SF Team had adopted, thanks to Sergeant Wagner. "Captain," he said. "Commander Adama left orders that whatever you need, you get." "Thanks, Castor," Byrne said. "You guys find anything?" "Nothing that jumps out," Castor admitted. "His cargo looks like it's mostly liquor, but some locked crates that we didn't open, but no sign of hidden compartments-at first glance, anyway." "Well, we'll take a look, and see if he's got any, well...'undeclared' cargo," Wagner said. To her, being a cop, this was a traffic stop writ large. "That we will, Sergeant," Byrne said. "And when we talk to the crew, maybe we'll find out about that other creep." Though she'd been in the camp at the time, Sanderson understood what the Captain meant. "That drug runner?" "Right on that," Byrne said. "He had a ton of drugs aboard, but a lot of legitimate cargo. Hell, the uniform you're wearing was made from some of it," he added. "And if he got caught?" "A bullet to the back of the head-if he was lucky," Wagner noted. "If not..." "Special Regime Camp," Sanderson finished. She had caught on fast. "So, how do we do this?" "Castor, we'll need somebody to help with the portable scanner," Byrne said. Castor nodded, then Byrne went on. "Ced and I will take the Bridge, Captain's Cabin, and other crew quarters. You two? Take the cargo hold. Look for anything suspicious." "Tellus and Dorado will take care of that," Castor said. "All right, Castor. Thanks," said Byrne. "Anytime, Captain," the Lieutenant replied. He glanced at Wagner, and nodded. "Lauren," he gave a wink and nod, and got one in return. Then he headed back to the Security Office. Lieutenant Sanderson saw it. "You two..." "Well, we had a date, and a pretty good night," Wagner grinned. "And if he asks me out again, I won't say no." "Let's finish this in the O-Club," Byrne ordered. "Let's get going." After boarding the ship, Byrne and Allen first went to the bridge, and it was slightly larger than the previous smuggler's-Picaja, his name was, Byrne recalled. The two officers found Technician Hummer busy downloading from the ship's computer into his own portable unit. "Technician," Byrne said. "Any thing that we should know about?" Hummer looked up from his terminal. "Oh, Captain, I didn't see you. Nothing that leaps out. Still not finished, though. There's a few more files and folders to check out." "Anything we should know right now?" "Some navigation information for their charted space, and what looks to be a chart for this sector," Hummer said. "Where he got it, I don't know that yet." Allen nodded. "We'll just have to ask him. Anything like a copy of a flight plan?" "No, sir," Hummer said, calling up the ship's navigation files. "He does have a course plotted, and his eventual goal was the RB-33 Station." "What was he doing here?" Byrne asked. "That's way on the other side of their territory." And a long way from here, he knew. If they were taking a detour, it was a long one. "Nothing why, but his cargo or his passengers may explain that," said Allen. "A lot of people passed through that station, looking for passage elsewhere. Especially if they were on the run." Byrne nodded. It made sense. "We'll have to ask them about that, too," he said. "Anything from the Crew Lounge or the Captain's Cabin?" "Games, some porn. Actually, a lot of porn, but then again, what do you expect on a free trader?" Hummer said. "But I found these in the Captain's private terminal: they're media files. All of them about us." He called up one of them, and imagery of the Galactica, Base Ship, and Constellation appeared, with titles in the Risik script. "There's about a dozen of these." "Lovely," Byrne shook his head. "Get that stuff translated as soon as you can. Ced, let's hit the Captain's Cabin." "Lead the way, Kev," Allen grinned. He was getting to like this. In the Cargo Hold, Lieutenant Sanderson and Sergeant Wagner, with Tellus and Dorado, were checking the cargo. Numerous crates filled the hold, but the ship clearly wasn't carrying a full load. "About two-thirds to three-quarters full," Sanderson guessed. "Looks that way, Ma'am," Wagner said. She had a crowbar in hand and was about to open a crate. "Let's see what they've got here." She pried open a crate, and her eyes widened. "Whoa!" "What did you find, Sergeant?" "Have a look, Ma'am," Wagner said. She played a flashlight around, and at least a dozen cases of bottles filled the crate. She went to a case and picked up a bottle. "What is this?" Sanderson knew. She'd unloaded enough crates in the camp to know some of the Risik written language. "It's liquor. Wine, to be exact. Unloaded enough of the stuff meant for Scarface's wine cellar to know." Tellus looked up from his scanner. "Nothing illegal about wine, as far as I know." "Maybe he didn't pay his export tax," Wagner joked, moving over to another crate. "That would make it illegal." She then pried open another crate, and a number of bags appeared. A couple of them leaked, and a fine, granulated substance appeared. "Is this what I think it is?" Tellus came over with his scanner and examined the grains. He looked up, surprised. "It's sugar." "Definitely not illegal," Sanderson said. "Unless you don't pay the tax. Anything in the bags?" Wagner took out her service knife and jammed it into a bag. "Nothing in this one." Tellus scanned the bags. "Nothing hidden in the bags: they're all full of sugar." "What's this all about?" Wagner said as Dorado cracked another crate, and waved her and the Lieutenant over. "What have you found?" Dorado showed them the contents. Frozen meat packed in dry ice. "Didn't the last guy we found have this?" "He did," Wagner said, looking at Sanderson. "That Picaja guy had a fortune in drugs aboard when we checked his ship. He was using the legal cargo as a cover." Sanderson nodded. They'd all heard the story of the smuggler found during the lead-up to the raid. "And he's probably trying to figure out a way to keep his head on his shoulders-if he hasn't had it separated from his body by now." Wagner nodded, then looked around the deck. Sure enough, a deck plate with scratch marks caught her attention. Again, her instinct as a cop was coming to the fore. "Ma'am, I think I know what's underneath that plate." "A smuggling compartment?" Sanderson asked. Just like on Constellation, she knew. "I think so," Wagner said as Tellus came over. "Can you scan that?" Tellus ran the scanner. "Void space, the reading says." "I don't think so," said Wagner. "Hold this." She handed him her flashlight, then put the crowbar to work, and the plate gave out a pop as she pried it open. "Well, now." Tellus played the light around. "Just like the last guy, only this one's empty." Both Sanderson and Wagner shook their heads. "This guy's probably headed somewhere to sell his legal cargo, and invest in some contraband for the return trip," the Lieutenant nodded. "I'd bet money on it, Ma'am," Wagner said. "All right, Sergeant," Sanderson said. "You're the cop here. What now?" "Dorado? Find Captain Byrne. Get him and Commander Allen over here. Right now." Wagner looked at her new superior. "Ma'am, we're going to need some help checking the rest of the cargo." Byrne and Allen had finished checking the Captain's Cabin when Dorado found them. They came back to the Cargo Bay, and were impressed with what had been found. "This guy's been busy. And an empty smuggling compartment?" Byrne asked. "Yes, sir," Sanderson said. "Nothing illegal about the rest of the cargo. Wine, sugar, frozen meat. Do we know where he was going?" "RB-33, eventually," Byrne said. "You've heard about that place, I take it?" "Yes, sir. Not a place I'd stay any longer than necessary." Allen looked around, and the setup was familiar. Time with Krylon, and on RB-33, had exposed him to a lot. "Kev, I think this guy was going somewhere to sell his legitimate cargo, and then he'd invest in some contraband. Mixed in with a return cargo that's quite legal." "Sounds about right," Byrne said, recalling interrogations of Picaja and his crew. "But why were the Secret Police-they were flying that cruiser that just got blown away-chasing this guy?" Sanderson nodded. "Sir, if he's a smuggler, chances are, he's on a 'Wanted' list." "That, or his passengers, sir," Wagner added. "What if they were the ones the cruiser wanted?" A familiar feeling from reading about those who'd tried to escape the Nazis, the Soviets, or East Germans came to Byrne. "Holy....I never thought of that." "You mean the passengers were the 'contraband', Sergeant?" Allen asked. He, too, was surprised. "Yes, sir, that's exactly what I'm saying," Wagner said. "Those SOBs in the secret police were after this ship for some reason," Sanderson added. "They're not chasing a smuggler, they're going after some dissidents." "It fits, but we'd have to ask the crew and passengers what this is all about," Byrne noted. "All right, Lieutenant? You, the Sergeant, and Tellus? Keep checking crates. We'll get you some help." Sanderson and the others nodded. "Yes, sir," she replied. "Dorado? Contact the Bridge and find Commander Adama. Request his presence down here at his convienence. Then get in touch with Master Chief Varica. Tell him I need some spare hands to help finish searching this ship." "Yes, sir," Dorado nodded. "Will that be all, sir?" "For now," Byrne said. "Go." "Sir." Allen looked in one of the crates, then nodded. "Kev, you thinking what I'm thinking?" "We're not finished with these SOBs just yet," said Byrne. "One more fight, looks like." Allen thought for a centon, then nodded agreement. "Yeah. One more fight." Wagner overheard that, and said to herself, "Couldn't happen to a nicer bunch." Commander Adama got the call on the Bridge, and asked Apollo to join him. They went to Beta Bay, and found Master Chief Varica's crew already at work, unloading the ship. "It looks as if Captain Byrne's people found something," Adama nodded. "They did, Commander," Varica said as he was supervising the unloading. "Nothing illegal, yet. Unless all this cargo doesn't have the export taxes paid." "Just like the Poros Family's smuggling," Apollo said. Even though he'd never run across any of their smugglers prior to the Holocaust, he'd heard enough about them from the news media and from Fleet rumor to know some of how they operated. Adama and Apollo then went aboard, and found the Cargo Bay in the process of being emptied. Crates being opened so they could be visually checked, then scanned, before being taken off the ship. Adama looked for Captain Byrne, and found him and Commander Allen going over a crate. "Captain," said Adama. "So, our guests were smuggling in the past." "Looks that way, Commander," Byrne said. "Either they were empty, and he wasn't carrying contraband this trip, or..." "Or what?" "Or, Commander," Allen said. "He was smuggling the passengers. Of their own free will." Apollo was confused at first. "I don't get it. Smuggling the passengers?" "Dissidents," Adama recognized what Allen meant. "I saw them disembark on a bridge monitor. They certainly didn't look like your average ruffian. Well dressed and groomed, most of them, anyway. Where were they going?" "RB-33, sir," Allen said. "His navigation computer had a course plotted. They were taking the long way, though." "A roundabout course?" "Yes, sir. They were probably hoping to throw off any unwanted company, before going that way. But that Cruiser was here, and...." "And we know the rest," Adama said. "They were definitely after this ship, but what for?" "Captain? Over here," a voice called. Adama, Apollo, Byrne, and Allen went over, and found Lieutenant Sanderson and Sergeant Wagner examining the contents of a freshly-opened crate. "Lieutenant," Adama said. "I see you've been busy." "Yes, sir," Sanderson replied. "More liquor here." She examined the script on of the bottles. "Ale of some kind. Don't recognize any more than that." Hearing that, Adama was surprised. "You've picked up the language?" "Some of it, Commander," the Marine Lieutenant replied. "In that place, anyone would. You had to pick up some of it." Just to survive, Apollo thought. Having heard all the sordid details of Ne'Chak, he wondered how he would have survived that place. Then again, he was glad not to have had the chance. "So, sugar, liquor, frozen meat, and who knows what else? Empty smuggling compartments means that he's legitimate." "For this trip, anyway," Allen said. "One thing among many I picked up at RB-33 was that what's legal to one race is illegal for another. There's one race there that, to them, salt is an addictive drug." "Salt?" Adama asked. "Salt, Commander," replied Allen. "Think of it like that Irel crap. At RB-33, there's a whole ring of smugglers who just run salt to those folks." Adama was amazed. Given how many races were out here, well away from Cylon Space, something like that was no surprise. "Unless we can find any contraband, by our code, we'll let him go. When the repairs to his ship are finished." "Commander?" A hand called. "Over here, sir." The party went to where the hand was, and an open crate beckoned. Inside were several bags, and a powdery black substance came out. "Not sure what this is, sir." "Scan it, please," Adama told Tellus. Tellus nodded, then ran his scanner. He then looked up. "Sir, it's chocolate." "Chocolate?" Sanderson asked. "This guy must be legitimate." "One moment, Ma'am," Wagner said. She drew her knife, then jammed it into several bags. Shaking her head, she added, "Nothing inside the bags." She was slightly disappointed in that, her tone of voice hinted at it. Oh, well... Adama nodded. This freighter's cargo was legitimate, and unless the remainder of the search turned up anything illegal, the ship, with its passengers and crew, would be released. "Captain, have Master Chief Varicia take over the rest of the search and unloading. I want you and your people to interview the Captain, crew, and passengers. Find out what they were doing out here, where they were ultimately going, and who the passengers are." Byrne nodded. "Yes, sir." "Very good, Captain. And well done." "Thank you, sir." After touching base with Master Chief Varica, Byrne and his people went to the Brig, where Sergeant Fabius was on duty. "Sergeant," Byrne said. "Captain," Fabius replied. "Commander Adama told me you'd be coming. They're all in separate interrogation rooms, other than the couples." "Couples?" "Yes, sir. Three married couples, older. And a younger couple who are, what's the Earth term? Engaged?" Fabius said. "That's the term," Allen said. "Captain first?" "Captain first," Byrne agreed. "Lieutenant, you'll be with me. I want you to watch his body language. And for sure, if you do recognize him, I want to know it." Sanderson nodded. "Yes, sir." "Before you go," Fabius reminded them. "I'll need your sidearms, please." Sanderson and Wagner nodded as they handed their weapons over. "Still like them, Fabius?" Wagner asked. "I sure do," Fabius said. "But I'd take this one," he held the SiG-Sauer. "It's lighter and more comfortable in the hand than that hand mega-pulsar cannon you use." Lieutenant Sanderson heard that, and she was pleased. "Looks like we've got a convert to the 9 mil, Sergeant." "It's split, 50-50," Wagner said. Half of the SF Troopers who took the pistols on the raid had the SiG-Sauer, and the other half-Croft included, took the Mark-23. "Fair enough," the Marine grinned. "Let's do it," Byrne said. "Ced, you and Wagner handle things with the Captain and the others. We'll be watching." Allen nodded. "Just like last time," he said. "Good cop, bad cop?" "Yes, sir," Wagner grinned. "Let's do it." "Just like old times," Allen grinned. Byrne and Sanderson went into the observation booth, while Allen and Wagner went into the interrogation room. When they entered, they found a typical free-trader captain, without the jewelry that Picaja had had. Wagner engaged the Languatron and set it down on the table, as Allen began to talk. "Captain," he said. The man stood up. "I am Captain Kar-lan, from the Free Trader Nightshade's Dream, and...." "You're about to thank us for blowing away the blokes who were chasing you?" Allen asked. Kar-lan sat back down. He owed his life-and his crew and passengers did as well, to these Te'reans. The last thing one should be was....ungrateful. "Ah, yes. I do thank you for doing so. But I would like to know why my ship has been detained." "Your ship took some battle damage, and until it's repaired, you're not going anywhere," Allen reminded him. "In the meantime," Wagner added. "We've got a few questions, and you have some answers." "Answers?" "Answers," Allen repeated. "Now, what was your last port of call, and where are you headed?" "The Capital," Kar-lan replied. "My eventual destination was a space station known as RB-33." Allen and Wagner exchanged looks, then she picked up. "Where nothing is illegal, anything goes, anything is encouraged, and law and order of any kind is merely a....suggestion." Kar-lan was surprised. "You have been there?" "Yes," Allen replied. "I've seen more civilized sewers, to be frank. Now, why the detour?" "I was hoping to evade pursuit by taking such a course," the Captain nodded. "However..." "However, that Patrol Cruiser was waiting for you. They can outrun your ship, and they probably plotted your course," said Allen. "Yes," Kar-lan said. "And they were waiting for us." "What for?" Wagner asked. "You didn't pay the export tax on your cargo?" Kar-lan laughed. "No, not that. Everything in the Cargo Bay is legitimate. The containers, every one of them, were stamped and sealed by State Customs. They were after my passengers." Allen and Wagner exchanged looks, as if to say, Bingo. "Your passengers?" Allen asked. "Yes. They are all, or soon will be, Enemies of the State," Kar-lan said. "All were involved in....subversive activities." Wagner nodded. "And your secret police wanted them-and you-to disappear. Permanently." It was a familiar-and old-story. "How do you know?" Kar-lan replied, a bit subdued. "It was so obvious a blind man could see it. They had you and everyone on your ship fitted for the afterlife." "That is correct." Allen looked at Wagner again, then said, "All right, we'll talk to them and see if your story checks out. Now, we found on your ship's computer some files about the Ne'Chak Raid. Care to elaborate?" "You are the raiders of Ne'Chak?" Kar-lan looked at both of them. "No reason to hide, but we did free those people, and turned the military base there to slag," Allen replied. "You have a problem with that?" "I..." "No, he doesn't," Allen said. He nodded at Wagner, who took out her pad and called up an image of Tsernavia, AKA Scarface. "You know this man?" "Ah...." "Yes?" Allen glared at him. "Yes, I do know of him," Kar-lan admitted. "He is the Commandant of the Ne'Chak Slave Camp, for the Te'rean slaves." Wagner corrected him. "You do mean 'was,' I believe?" "He is either dead, or imprisoned." Kar-lan said. Both Earthers could tell by the tone of his voice that it wasn't a question. "Neither. He's been marooned," Allen said. "As for the raid? Have a problem with that?" "Other than the world being closed to all civilian traffic? No. I should say otherwise, but clearly, I am in no position to disagree." "Smart boy," Wagner said. "Now, ever deal with this man? Or, shall we say, the former Governor, Raduztak?" Kar-lan looked at the image of Tsernavia. "No, though I was approached by his second-in-command to deliver certain...luxuries to the Camp. I declined. He is-or was-the sort of man you did not want to deal with except on one's own terms." "And Raduztak?" "No, I never had reason to deal with him. His bureaucrats, yes, and if you had taken them out, you would have done the Risik State a favor," Kar-lan smiled at that thought. Allen and Wagner exchanged grins. "All right, mate. We're going to talk to your First Mate at length, and then your passengers. And we'll talk with some of the former prisoners. See if they recognize you. If they don't, then you don't have anything to worry about." "And until then?" "You're not going anywhere. One more thing: do you know what happened to Picaja and his crew?" Kar-lan had a grim smile on his face. "He and his crew were condemned to death and executed. The State Media has shown them to be an example of what happens to those who betray the State to you, or anyone else." "We thought he'd run into assassin or bounty hunter trouble, but..." Wagner said. "At least the universe is a better place just by him leaving it." "I see we're in agreement on that, at least." In the booth, Byrne studied the Captain. "Well, that's some good news. He's got a shipload of dissidents, and that last dirtbag didn't keep his head for long." "Yes, sir," Sanderson grinned. "And before you ask, sir? No, I don't recognize him." Byrne nodded, then turned to Fabius, who had also been watching. "All right: let's put him in a cell, and bring in the First Mate." "Yes, sir." After talking with the First Mate, and the other crew, it was time to move on to the passengers. All of whom said basically the same story: they had been urging political and social reforms, and to Byrne, Allen, and Wagner, it was all too familiar, knowing Melnea's story. The passengers all knew people who had been arrested, and the only way to keep from being arrested was to leave the Capital, and go somewhere out of Risik Space. Even if it meant permanent exile. Unfortunately, several people who had been with their group had already been arrested, and several others had not made it to the spaceport in time to make the trip, and they were, at best, in a Special Regime Camp by now, if not already dead. But it was the last two, the unmarried couple, that raised eyebrows.... "All right," Allen said to Jaden and Mesha. "You two are going to be married?" "Yes," Jeden replied, looking at his fiancee (the Earth term). "We were friends before my service, and after? We maintained the relationship." "What about your parents?" "My parents are dead," Jaden said angrily. "They were arrested, and the next day, tried. The execution followed immediately after. My brother? He is in a Special Regime Camp. I would be there, too, if not for fleeing with Mesha." "And your parents, Miss?" Wagner asked. "They were...unable to join us on the voyage," Mesha replied sadly. "I fear that they have been arrested and most likely have been executed." Wagner and Allen exchanged looks. "Sounds familiar," Allen said, not revealing Melnea's name. If she knew these people, they would find out soon enough, at any briefing held. "You mentioned 'service', Mr. Jaden. Are you former military?" "No," Jaden replied. "I was conscripted, and when one is conscripted, there is no choice in what branch of the Forces, or other services, one is sent into. If I had joined voluntarily, I would have joined the Star Force." "So where'd they send you?" "I was sent into the Guard Forces of the General Security Directorate," Jaden said. He could see the cold stares of the two Te'reans as they digested that. Clearly, they had a problem with his old service. "I was trained to be a camp guard, and was told I would be guarding 'Heretics, unbelievers, and those who are inferior. Terrorists who would destroy our way of life.'" "So you were going to a Special Regime Camp?" Wagner asked. "No. When my transport arrived at the Ne'Chak Base, the Commandant of the Camp, Tsernavia, was there. He selected several of us-and I was one-to be guards at the Special Camp. None of us knew who was held there. Only when I arrived did I see it held Te'reans. The only Te'rean slaves in the Empire, I was told." "Uh-oh..." Allen said, looking at Wagner, whose jaw had dropped. In the booth, Byrne looked at Sanderson, who was glaring at Jaden. "Recognize him, Lieutenant?" "I do, sir." The Marine Lieutenant's reply was ice cold. "He was in the watch towers, walked perimeter, and escorted a few work details-when someone was on leave or whatever." "Did he..." "Lay a finger on me?" Sanderson replied. "No, sir. Got the impression that he didn't want to be there." "Did you hurt anyone?" Wagner asked, the rage in her voice coming up. Anyone who worked in that camp, as far as she was concerned, deserved whatever came to them. However they met their end, it made no difference to her. And that, she knew, it wouldn't either to the ex-prisoners, with Father Fisher being the lone exception. "NO!" Jaden's reply was strong, and startled both Allen and Wagner. "As the gods are my witnesses, I swear! I was on the watch towers, and did perimeter security. I also escorted work details, we all did, on a rotating basis. But I never harmed any of them! All I wanted to do was finish my service and go home!" Jaden was nearly in tears when he finished. "You do know about the Raid on Ne'Chak?" "Yes," Mesha said. "It has been all over the State Media. It was kept secret from the people, but when rumors began to spread about something dreadful having happened, the State Media announced the raid. They did so with much vitriol directed against Te'rea. There have even been rallies, organized by the priests-and well attended ones, I must say-denouncing Te'rea for this action." She saw Allen and Wagner have grins on their faces. "You?" "We had our role to play," Allen said. "I wasn't there, but the Sergeant there was," he added. "And she's got some unfinished business with anyone involved with that Camp, and in taking people from Earth in general. Because she was taken from Earth herself." "And that can mean a lot," Wagner said coldly. "You do know that, don't you?" Jaden's face turned pale. He knew that if she wanted him dead, there wasn't much he could do about it. "I did not harm anyone. By the Gods, I swear it!" "I could care less about your Gods," Wagner said coldly. She got into his face. "And you'd better pray to them that if you've been lying, we don't find out." "What will happen to him?" Mesha asked. "We'll talk with some of the former prisoners," Allen replied. "If they validate your friend's story about not harming anyone, he's got nothing to worry about." "And if they do say he harmed them?" Wagner added. "That's no guarantee that he'll be in court. Just because a few prisoners said he hit them with his baton or shoved them with his rifle butt may not be enough." Though she did want anyone involved in running the camp-not to mention the whole series of abductions-quite dead, there were exceptions. And this poor fellow might be one. Someone doing a job he didn't want to do, a draftee who didn't want to be there. That was one thing. A guard who got his jollies giving out beatings, or working in the torture shed was something totally different...."If you had been a torture guard, I'd be saying that you ought to be dragged into court right now. But...." Allen nodded. "We've got some time," he said. "Your ship's being repaired, and it'll take a few days to do that. We can sort this out and go from there. In the meantime, you'll be fed and taken care of." "Thank you," Mesha replied. "All right, Sergeant," Allen said. "I think we're finished for now." "Yes, sir," Wagner replied. After Allen and Wagner emerged, Byrne and Sanderson, along with Fabius, joined them. "Well, Kev," Allen said. "This opens up a whole new problem." "Sure does," Byrne said. "Lieutenant Sanderson says he never touched her." "Or anyone else, that I know of," Sanderson added. "I think we should get Petty Officer Clemens over here." "Agreed," Byrne said. "Fabius? Call up the Officer's Club, and have Ensign Adele and Petty Officer Clemens report to me here. On the double." Fabius nodded. "Yes, sir," then he made the call on the telecom. "On their way, sir." A few centons later, Adele and Clemens arrived. "What's up, sir?" Adele asked. "Glad you're both here," Byrne said. "We've got someone who may, and I emphasize may, have been a guard at Ne'Chak, and Petty Officer, I'd like you to see if you recognize him." "Where, sir?" Clemens asked. Was this going to lead to another Court-Martial/Tribunal? One way to find out. And if he was a former guard.... Byrne said, "Come with me," and led her into the booth, and the two-way mirror. Once there, they saw the couple just interviewed, and the male had gotten up from his seat, and was walking around the interrogation room. "That him?" "Take all the time you need, Petty Officer," Byrne said. After a couple of centons, he looked at her. She was staring intently, and then a grim smile came over her face. "You do recognize him?" Clemens turned to her CO. "Yes, sir. He was in the guard towers mostly, but also walked perimeter, and stood at the gates. He even escorted work details outside the wire." Nodding, Byrne then knew what he'd have to ask next. These things were...delicate, he knew. "Did he...?" "Hurt me? No, sir. He did prod me with his rubber hose a few times, but it was more like a jab to say 'Get back to work', or something. Never used his rifle butt that I know of," Clemens said. "All right. That verifies what Lieutenant Sanderson said." "Sir, I may be talking a bit above my pay grade, but we'll have to talk to the others. See if they remember this guy,", said Clemens. Byrne knew the Petty Officer was right. "We'll certainly do that," he said. "And we need to see if the camp's personnel records have been translated. See if this guy got any kind of commendations or promotions." "Or reprimands," Clemens added. "Sir, I do remember a couple of guards being transferred out because they weren't 'severe enough' to us." "That's interesting," Byrne said. "Guess Scarface wanted guards who'd match his attitude towards you." "He did, sir," Clemens said. "But those guys worked in the torture shed for the most part. A few did supervise work details, and they didn't hesitate to beat on somebody they thought was slacking off." "And those have all paid," Byrne said. One very good byproduct of the raid, in everyone's view.... "Yes, sir," Clemens said. "All right, then. Let's go." They left the booth and found Allen, Wagner, Sanderson, and Adele talking. "How'd it go, Kev?" Allen asked. "She ID'd him," said Byrne. "But he didn't hurt me at all," Clemens added. "Do we know anything about his background?" Wagner nodded. "He said he was a draftee, and all he wanted to do was do his time in service and go home." Sounds about right, Clemens mouthed. She looked at Lieutenant Sanderson, who nodded. "That does fit. He wasn't that enthusiasistic about his job from what I could see, anyway." Sanderson agreed. "His heart didn't seem to be in it," she said. Byrne nodded, then thought for a moment. "All right, then. Fabius? Call the Bridge and inform them that we have a report for Commander Adama." "Right away, sir," Fabius replied. "Then call the O-Club and have Seliene get to Alpha Bay and get her shuttle ready," Allen told him. "Sir," Fabius said, then he went to the Security Desk to make the calls. Byrne then turned to Adele. "Ensign, get the Armstrong ready. We'll be leaving right after that meeting." "Yes, sir." Fabius then returned. "Captain? Commander Adama says to meet you in the Ward Room. He'll be there, along with Colonel Tigh and Sire Pelias." Byrne nodded. "Tell him we're on our way." After Fabius left, he said, "Then let's go, people." Chapter 3: When Byrne's people got to the Ward Room, not only was Commander Adama there with Colonel Tigh and Sire Pelias, but Academican Sarah was there as well. "Commander? Byrne said as he and his people saluted. "Reporting as ordered." "Captain," Adama said. "What do you have for us?" "Commander," Byrne nodded. "Everyone. We can start with the freighter. The cargo is legitimate, since the Captain did pay his export taxes. He wasn't smuggling on this trip-in terms of cargo, anyhow." "So why was that Cruiser and its scout ships trying to kill him?" "He was smuggling his passengers, Commander. Simple as that." "His passengers?" Pelias asked. Byrne nodded at Allen, who went on. "Sire, the passengers were the contraband. All of them are, or were, members of dissident groups. Small ones, I should add. Half of their friends either didn't arrive in time to make the trip, and are now either dead or in a Special Regime Camp, or had already been arrested." "Not a surprising development," Sarah nodded. "So who are they, exactly?" "Ma'am," Allen replied. "One's a doctor-of psychiatry, their version. Another is a lawyer, and his wife sells what we call real estate. One used to be a journalist, until he printed an online article that didn't make the priests happy. He went underground, while looking for a way off the Capital. Another used to be a mayor of a small city on the Capital world, and so on. People we'd call the intelligentsia." "They're mostly older people, but there is a young couple. They're not married," Wagner added. "But they want to be. However, talking to the young man raised another...issue." "And that is?" Tigh asked. Wagner looked at Byrne, who nodded. Then she went on. "The young man used to be a guard at the slave camp." And she-and the other Earthers-saw jaws drop. "He said he had been drafted, and only after arriving on Ne'Chak did he know where he was going. Scarface selected him and several others to be guards, and only when he got to the camp did he know who was being held there." Adama nodded grimly. The horrors of the camp were, by now, well-known in the Fleet, due to the Tribunal, and nothing about the Risik surprised anyone now. "Lieutenant, Petty Officer? You were there. Do you recognize him?" "Yes, sir," Lieutenant Sanderson replied. "I do remember this guy, and no, I don't recall him hurting anyone." "I don't either, sir," Clemens added. "He mostly did Tower duty, but he also walked a post around the perimeter, stood at the gate into the compound, stood guard over the Mess Hall and Kitchen a few times, even escorted work details on occasion. He carried a length of rubber hose as a baton, but he hardly used it." "The same goes for his rifle butt. He either tapped you with the baton, or brushed you with his rifle butt, just enough to say 'get back to work'." Sanderson said. "His heart just wasn't in it. And he did say during the interview that all he wanted to do was finish his service and go back home." "Commander," Clemens said. "There's one other thing: at least two guards were transferred out after not being there for very long. Rumor had it they got sent away for not being 'severe enough' on us. This guy may have been one of those reprimanded." "That, Commander, is something we need to know before we go any further," Byrne said. "Having a look at his personnel file in the camp records would confirm-or deny-his story." Pelias looked at Adama. "Has any of that-other than Scarface's material, been translated yet, Commander?" "Let's find out," Adama said. He got up from his chair and went to the telecom "Bridge, Commander Adama." "Omega here, Commander," the Flight Officer's voice came over the line. "Get me Doctor Wilker, please. And feed this to the Ward Room." "Yes, sir. Right away." A centon later, the Chief Scientist's face appeared on the monitor. "Yes, Commander?" "Doctor, I realize you and your people are still busy cleaning up the aftereffects of the virus, but are Pliny and his students available?" "They are, Commander," Wilker replied. "You have a job for them?" "I do. Have them go after the personnel records at the Ne'Chak Slave Camp. Look for records of any guards who were disciplined in any way. Reprimanded, demoted, threatened with transfer, even transferred out," Adama said. He turned to Byrne. "What's the name of the guard?" "Jaden, sir," Allen said. "Did you hear that, Doctor?" Adama asked. Seeing Wilker nod on the monitor, he went on. "Find anything in the camp files about him." "I'll have Pliny and his students get on that right away," said Wilker. "And Hummer, when he checked the files on that ship's computer? He found a chart of this sector, and there were also a dozen files that had stories from their State Media Service. They're all about us." "About us?" Adama asked. "Yes, Commander," Wilker said. "They're pretty vitrolic towards us, the Ke'zar, and so on." "All right, Doctor. Have one or two of those translated. I presume it won't be until morning that Pliny will have something for us?" "That's about it, Commander," replied Wilker. "And we'll have the anti-virus software updated and new firewalls installed in three days." "Very good, Doctor," Adama said. "Let me know when Pliny and his people have some results." "Will do, Commander." After signing off, Adama went back to the table. "And that's underway. Though finding out there have been stories in their news media about us was a surprise." "It should not be, Commander," Sarah replied. "It's not that unusual in societies such as this. The regime needs their populace content and loyal, if not fervently so. Having an external enemy-besides the Ke'zar, will rally the people to the regime, even if only for a while. They can't suppress news of us, so they have exploited it, at least their approved version of events. What those on Earth call 'spin,' I believe." She saw both Byrne and Allen nod, then she went on. "Once we have left their sphere of influence, the regime will find new ways to keep their people behind them." Just like on Ziklag, she thought. "Word did come about the raid," Allen said. "The couple mentioned the news stories, and the Regime's been pretty bombastic, the young lady said. Denouncing the raid and us." Wagner nodded, then added, "Sir, they've also had rallies on the Capital, organized by the priests. She said they were pretty well attended, and we're the propaganda target." "When we have those stories translated," Tigh said. "We should know what they're saying about us." "Exactly, Colonel," Adama said. "I'd like to see those myself." "Commander Allen?" Pelias asked. "Did these people say where they were going?" Allen nodded. "Sire, they were all going to RB-33. But that wasn't their final destination. From my own experience there, and no doubt yours, there's a sizable transient population there. People fleeing authority or enemies of one sort or another, and looking for somewhere to go. Some were looking for a permanent home, others just after a place to lay low for a while." Sarah asked, " Are they looking at leaving Risik Space permanently?" "They are, Ma'am. They're likely now on a 'wanted' list, with prices on their heads to match. Going home only gets them an early grave." Pelias nodded, then turned to Commander Adama. "Commander? Could we offer these people a place in the Fleet? Especially if they are looking for a permanent exile from the Regime." "RB-33's not exactly a safe exile, Sire," Adama said. "However, if they wish to come with us, that will be their rightful decision, after all." He turned to Sarah. "Melnea does know about them, correct?" "She does know, Commander, and she does want to talk to them," Sarah replied. "With your permission, that can begin tomorrow." "Approved," Adama said. "Very well, we'll have a situation briefing tomorrow. Pliny's students should have material for us, along with Wilker's results from those news stories. And Captain? The response of the ex-prisoners will be important." "We'll have that, Commander. After this meeting, we'll be headed back to our ships, and then we'll get together and find out who remembers this guy." "Very well. If there's nothing else?" Adama asked. There wasn't any. "Captain? You and your people, well done." "Thank you, sir," Byrne said. "Dismissed." After Byrne and his people saluted and left, Adama, Tigh, Pelias, and Sarah were left. "Comments?" Adama asked. "Commander, we may still have trouble. Especially if the Reaction Force-or part of it, shows up," Tigh reminded them. "Two or three cruisers should not be that much of a problem, Colonel," Pelias said. "I'm more concerned about this former guard. The reactions of the refugees from Earth will be important." "They will, Sire," Adama said. "I'll inform Sire Solon and let him know what's transpired. The Lords willing, his services won't be necessary." "Yes, Commander. And if they do stay with us, the Welcome-Aboard Party will be a way for them to get to know us, and that we-and the Earthers-are not what their propaganda has described us." "Always important," Sarah pointed out. "And the trader?" Adama nodded. "Chief Twilly informs me that the ship needs three days of repairs." He turned to his XO. "Tigh, once that's finished, I intend to release the ship, crew, and any passengers who want to continue on their voyage." Tigh nodded. "Yes, Commander." "Colonel, inform Baltar, then Strike Leaders Apollo and Orion. The prior Rules of Engagement for the Risik are back in effect, and will be until further notice." The XO made a note on his pad. "Commander." "All right, then." Adama nodded, "Let's get to it." After returning to Constellation, Captain Byrne called a all-refugee meeting in the Crew Mess, and the other crew and civilians were wondering what it was about. When they were all gathered, Byrne got things rolling. "All right, people, we'll cut to the chase. The Galactica and the Base Ship just encountered a Risik Patrol Cruiser, and the skipper had the balls to demand that you all, and Melnea, be returned." "What did Commander Adama say?" Lieutenant Hans-Jurgen Krebs, from the old East German Army-the National Volksarmee-and now the ship's Physical Training Officer, asked. "He rejected them out of hand, and when the Commander tried to talk this guy out of a fight, they fired on both big ships. The Cruiser got blown away for their trouble." The room erupted with cheers, then Byrne went on. "They also destroyed two of their scout ships that were chasing a freighter, and that ship's now on Galactica." "They find anything?" Sgt. Goria Shamir, from the Israeli Army, and their new Landram Driver, asked. "They did," Byrne said. "His cargo's legitimate, unlike the drug runner we found prior to the raid, but hs passengers weren't." There were murmurs between people, then Ensign Popava asked, "Captain, what does that mean?" "It means that his passengers weren't legal," Byrne replied. "He was smuggling dissidents. And among them was a young couple." He nodded at Sergeant Wagner, who had her data pad hooked up to the Mess Room's computer terminal. "Call him up, Sergeant." Wagner nodded, then the image of Jaden came up on the monitor. "Here he is," and as she and Bryne watched, jaws dropped as people recognized him. "So you all do know him." "He was a passenger on that freighter?" Neda Yousfi, one of those who'd testified at the Tribunal, and one of two Iranians aboard, asked. She saw Wagner nod, then said, "What is his story?" Lieutenant Sanderson responded. "He said he was drafted, and found himself a guard at the camp. He said that he didn't want to be there, and I don't know about the rest of you, but I don't recall him ever laying a finger on me. He may have even smuggled food to us, if the camp grapevine was right." "He didn't touch me either," Petty Officer Clemens added. "His heart didn't seem to be in his job." "Jess," Airman Brandon Reynolds said. "I've got to agree with you. He was a total 180 from the Chief Guard-the Bug. And that SOB was a real insect. Sergeant Wagner did all of us a favor when she took him all the way out." "The Devil must have loved it when he showed up!" Someone said. "That's for sure," Sanderson replied. "Now, the Colonials' specialists are going over the camp personnel records right now. They're looking to see if his file's among the documents recovered. That will either confirm, or deny, his story." Byrne added, "Even if someone comes forward and says he actually beat up on somebody other than just a shove with his rifle butt or a prod with his rubber hose? That's not enough. Eyewitness testimony is good, but it's not infallible. We need other corroboration, and since the only videos recovered were the ones shot in the torture shed..." "Not enough evidence," Linda Donahue, the mother of the three triplets recently born aboard ship, said. It wasn't a question, from her tone of voice. Back home in Alamosa, Colorado, she was a real-estate agent, but had clients who worked in law enforcement, so she knew the drill. "Afraid so," Wagner said. "I'm a cop in civilian life, and even we have to hold our noses and let some dirtbag walk when there's not enough to hold them, let alone go to trial." "Doubly so for the prosecutors," Byrne added, recalling his stint in JAG. "So, can anyone here say this guy went more than just prodding or shoving you when he was on duty?" He looked around the Mess, as did both Sanderson and Wagner. Not a hand came up. That surprised him, but then again, from what Vietnam POWs had said when they came back from Hanoi, the guards you remembered were the ones who beat the crap out of you, and the handful who were actually decent. It looked like the latter was the case here. "Looks like it's unanimous, sir," Sanderson said. Byrne nodded. "Then let's see what they're saying on Adelaide." He went to the telecom. "Bridge, Captain Byrne." "Agron here, sir," the Second Officer's voice came back. It was his watch as OOD. "Mr. Agron, get me Commander Allen on Adelaide, and patch this to the Crew Mess," Byrne ordered. "Right away, sir," The connection was quickly made, and Allen's image appeared on the monitor. Behind him, in the background, the meeting on Adelaide looked like it had just broken up. "Ced," Byrne said. "Kev," Allen replied. "How'd it go there?" "Well, nobody can recall this guy getting really physical. Brushing people with his rifle butt or poking them with his baton, yeah. But actually beating up on people? No. And nobody's interested in seeing this guy in court. How'd things go on your end?" "Pretty much the same," Allen replied. "Nobody here says he went beyond that, and Father Fisher, you pretty much know what he's saying." Byrne nodded. "Forgive and forget," he said, and saw Allen nod in reply. "Okay, Ced, I'll notify Commander Adama. Let him know what we've decided." "Unless there's a bombshell in his personnel file," Allen said dryly. "Yeah," replied Byrne. "See you at the brief tomorrow." "You too, Kev," Allen said, then the screen went blank as the connection was cut. "That's it?" Kevin Scott, who was Linda's common-law husband, asked. Byrne looked at him. "Unless they find something in his personnel file that disproves his story, yeah." Then he surveyed the crowd, and heads were nodding in agreement, and some were talking with each other. "Anything else?" No hands came up, so... "All right, that's it. We're adjourned." As the meeting broke up, Wagner came over to Byrne and Sanderson. "Sir, Ma'am, unless Pliny's students find anything in this guy's file..." "He walks," Byrne finished. "This a fellow you can feel sorry for, Sergeant?" "Yes, sir. This is one fish I don't mind getting away. Though there is one thing I'm curious about." "What's that, Lauren?" Petty Officer Clemens asked as she came up. "Melnea," Wagner said. "What's her reaction to somebody who was ex-Secret Police? And she's just like us in a way." Sanderson knew it at once. "She wants whoever snitched on her family dead." "Exactly, Lieutenant," Byrne said. "Those meetings tomorrow will be interesting," he nodded. "All right, I'll inform Commander Adama." "Sir," Sanderson said, and the others nodded. After talking with Captain Byrne, Commander Adama decided to see Sire Solon and get his thoughts on the matter. Though the refugees weren't interested in prosecuting this former guard, the possibility was there that his service record might disprove the story told, and at least a hearing, if not a full Tribunal, might be called for. Even though it was highly unlikely that the ex-prisoners had anything on him. Then there was something else that Captain Byrne had brought up: Melnea. How would she react to someone who was formerly from the Secret Police? Those thoughts were on his mind as he went to the Chief Opposer's Office. He found Solon's aide at his desk in the outer office. "Is Sire Solon available?" "Commander," the aide replied. "He's in his office, sir. Go right in." "Thank you," Adama said. He went into Solon's Office, and found the Chief Opposer reading through a legal text. "Sire," "Commander," Solon said, rising. "To what do I owe this honor?" "Sire," Adama began. "I take it you've heard we have some new Risik guests?" "Yes, Commander," Solon said. "An engagement with a Risik warship, and a freighter brought aboard the Galactica. Whose passengers are dissidents fleeing the Regime." Adama nodded. "That is essentially it, but there is something else." Seeing Solon raise an eyebrow, he continued. "One of the passengers is a former guard at Ne'Chak." "I see..." Solon said. "Commander, do you have a Tribunal in mind?" Adama shook his head. "Not yet, Sire. To begin with, his personnel record from the Camp has not yet been translated, and the young man in question maintains that he did not harm anyone held there." "Have the former prisoners said anything?" "Yes, and quite a bit, according to both Captain Byrne and Commander Allen," Adama said. "They all maintain that this man never harmed anyone physically, and in fact, actually smuggled food to the prisoners on occasion, and looked the other way when they themselves smuggled extra fruits and vegetables from the camp farm. However..." "However?" Solon asked. "However, his personnel record, when translated, will either confirm or deny his story," said Adama. "There are no video records of where he was posted as a guard, only the torture shed, and he is adamant that he was never on guard there." "Hmm.." Solon said, taking notes. "It all depends on Pliny's work, then. If there is merit in proceeding further, I will so advise you. But the decision to proceed would be Captain Byrne's, correct?" Adama nodded. "Yes, it would, Sire. Though we would have to respect his decision if he decided not to go any further. I would like you to begin at least the outline of a case. If there is reason to go forward, then we'll be ready. And if not, then nothing more need be said. And there is the possibility that this man may want his actions taken down for the record, once it is known to him that his former Commanding Officer was in a Tribunal, and held accountable for his crimes." "I understand, Commander," Solon said. "I'll get to work on the outline of a case straight away. There is no reason to print anything out yet, and if there is no decision to proceed, then it can simply be....wiped away." "Thank you, Sire." Chapter 4: The next morning, Commander Adama, after a working breakfast with Sire Pelias and Siress Tinia, went to the Bridge, always a few centons early. During the breakfast, the topic of the previous day's encounter with the Risik had been the main focus of discussion, and both Pelias and Tinia felt that the Risik dissidents might end up requesting asylum in the Fleet. Adama had been thinking about this, and felt that if they did make that request, he was of a mind to grant it. Of course, it did depend on what they wanted to do. Did they hope at some point to return home, hopefully after the Regime had fallen, or were they planning on permanent exile, as that would be the surest way to remain alive and breathing. It would be their choice, he reminded Pelias and Tinia, and if any of them chose to proceed to RB-33? That choice would be respected. Though he personally felt that they would be safer in the Fleet, as at the station, there would be the chance of being found either by GSD Agents, or by bounty hunters hired by the GSD. He made a mental note to discuss this with "Academican Sarah" aka Niizaka of Ziklag, for her insight. With those thoughts in mind, Adama went to the Plot Board, where he found Colonel Tigh. "Good morning, Colonel." "Good morning, Commander," Tigh replied. "The morning sitrep is ready." He handed his CO a pad. "Our patrols have found no additional ships or signals, but a patrol that went back to the battle site did find a buoy." "A buoy?" Adama asked as he checked the pad. "A distress buoy, in all likelihood." "That was Lieutenant Giles' opinion, as it was his patrol that found it. It was likely jettisoned just before the cruiser was destroyed." Adama knew the rest. "Just as the cruisers that charged us over Ne'Chak did," he noted. "On that buoy were likely copies of his flight and scanner logs, so that if found, Risik Intelligence would know what destroyed them." He looked at the board, then at Tigh. "And what did Giles do with the buoy?" "He destroyed it," Tigh reported. "Good," said Adama as Athena brought up the overnight scanner report. "If the cruiser is reported overdue, they may not find the battle site, and even if they do, we'll be well out of here beforehand. Though I wouldn't have objected if there had been a boarding action, and we gained access to their charts." "Wilker's people did find a chart of this sector aboard the freighter," Tigh reminded the Commander. "Yes," Adama nodded. "If they haven't done so already, have Wilker's people upload that chart into the system, and add it to our navigation database. Any charts or other data about this new sector will be invaluable." Tigh nodded himself. "Yes, Commander." He made a note on his pad. Adama turned to his daughter. "That's the scanner report?" "It is, Father," she replied, handing him the pad. Adama skimmed the pad's contents. Nothing detected. "Very well," he said as he signed with a stylus. "Thank you, Athena." "Father," Athena nodded, then returned to her station. "Academician Sarah reports that the interviews with the Risik passengers will begin shortly," Tigh said. "Does Melnea know one of them used to be in their secret police in some capacity?" Adama asked. Consulting his pad, Tigh nodded. "She does, Commander." Adama winced at hearing that. "I would not want to be that young man," he said. "Even if he left the secret police under a cloud for not being 'severe' with the prisoners at Ne'Chak, she may feel that is irrevelant. Since she doesn't know who betrayed her family-and the rest of their associates, her feelings may not be....warm, shall we say, towards him." Tigh understood what Adama meant by that. Once in the secret police, one was always in, even if no longer on active duty. The former guard might still have been an informer from time to time, if Pre-Unification history was a guide. "Well, Commander, we'll know soon enough." "That we will, Tigh. Anything else?" "No incidents with any of the ships in the Fleet, and the Century has dropped back to cover our rear flank," said Tigh. "Captain Betz will be launching the next patrol in....Twelve centons." "Good. When does Pliny expect to have that material ready?" Adama wanted to know. The XO consulted his pad. "By midafternoon, Commander." "Very well, Colonel," Adama said. He checked the Plot Board, then decided. "Call a Situation Brief for 1600, with the same participants as prior to the raid." "Of course, Commander," Tigh said, making a note on his pad. "And is that it for now?" "It is, Commander." Adama nodded. "Thank you, Colonel." He walked towards the command station, then turned back to Tigh. "Colonel." "Commander?" Tigh asked. "Right now, with as many empty pieces of the puzzle there are, all data is valuable. Pass this to all patrols. As of now, if any Risik marker buoys or similar devices are found, and scanned to be safe, have them brought back for analysis. We can't afford to pass up any potential data." "I'll pass that along at once, Commander." "Thank you, Colonel." Melnea left her small office, which was next to her superior, Academican Sarah's, and headed for the Brig. She had been immersing herself in both Colonial and Earth history, as she prepared for her new life as one of Sarah's assistants, when the call came to interview the passengers from the freighter. She wasn't surprised that the State had been chasing dissidents beyond its territory. In fact, she had expected it. Nor did the actions of the cruiser captain take her by surprise, either. When Melena had been told that the captain had requested her return-by name, she felt a sense of pride. Now, she wanted to know if these people really were kindred souls who wanted real change in the Risik State, or were fleeing for other reasons, and were hiding behind the reformist banner in the process. After checking in with Corporal Stamaris, who was on duty, she went to an interrogation room and found a couple-an older one, and yet, her first impression was that they shared the same life together, much as her own parents had. Checking her notes, this was the couple who had a doctor of law, and the wife was one who was an agent for property sales. After the door opened, she introduced herself. "Good morning, Doctor," she said cheerfully. "I am-" "You are Melnea," the Doctor said. "There is no need to introduce yourself. I am Doctor Melshik, and this is my wife, Jelna." "How did you know my name?" Melnea asked. This wasn't what she was expecting. "It is an honor to meet a fellow Enemy of the State," Melshik replied. "Your name has been all over the State's media organs," Jelna added. "You, and the slaves from Ne'Chak, to be precise. All of you have been declared as such." "And the State has placed a considerable bounty on each and every one of you. Ten thousand Chai, and a lifetime pension from the State, for each one returned to custody alive." Well, now, Melnea thought. Then I am among friends in this room. She related her story, then said, "So, what brings you here?" Melshik nodded sadly. "We had no other choice but to flee the Capital, indeed, Risik Space. Despite the murder of your parents and their associates, their message has spread-only a little, I am afraid to say, but there are some who have listened. We, too, had a circle of friends with whom we discussed many of the matters that your parents and their circle advocated. There were only a dozen or so of us at first, and yet, we tried to deliver our message to others." "And yet, you could only talk freely with those you could really trust," said Melnea. She recalled her own parents' fears of informers, but they felt they had no choice but to take the risk, if it meant spreading their message. "Yes," Melshik said. "We had no choice, as you say. And, of course, we were betrayed to State Security." "Any concerns about Jaden?" Melnea asked. "He is, after all, a former member of State Security." Jelna nodded. "There were," she replied, looking at her husband. "But we took pity on him, knowing his story. His parents were members of our group, and they did know yours." "Yes, they did meet at others' homes," Melnea remembered. "I still don't completely trust him. He may have been trying to get back into the good graces of State Security." She made a mental note of that, for future reference. "So...you were betrayed. How many of your group escaped?" "Eight. Jaden and his lover had met us some time ago, and when their own parents were arrested? I allowed them to join us. It was only a matter of time...." Melshik said. "And we were being pursued when we arrived at the Capital's Spaceport." "How many were in your circle?" "About twenty or so. All who are alive and free are here. The rest-" Melnea knew the rest. It was all too familiar. "Are either dead or in a Special Regime Camp, like my brother." In that camp, death would have been a mercy, and State Security didn't go much for mercy. "May the wrath of the Gods come down upon whoever betrayed them." "Yes," Melshik replied sadly. "Now, who are these Te'reans?" Melnea laughed. "They are not from Te'rea, even if they are the same race," she said. Then Melnea gave an outline of the Colonials' story, and the refugees from Earth. "They are fleeing a war that they lost. And it is Te'rea itself that they wish to locate and settle. With the cooperation of the authorities there." "And how many are left?" "The day before the attack, there were twenty billion or so in the Twelve Worlds. The day after, in this Fleet? There were seventy thousand who escaped the Destruction of their homeworlds." "The Gods have mercy...." Melshik said. "And in the course of their voyage, they discovered the slaves on Ne'Chak, and took action." Melnea nodded. "That is correct. It is how I came to be aboard the Galactica." "Now the former slaves are going home," Jelna said. "Where they belong. We,too, had hopes of freeing them and allowing them to chart their own path, if it wasn't possible for them to return home." As my parents and their friends so wished, Melnea thought. "You may have the chance to meet some of them later on," she said. "Now, what are your future plans? From what I have heard, the space station you were going to is not a very safe place." And that is a considerable understatement, Melnea thought. "We were hoping to find passage from there to another world that would welcome us." Melshik said. "It pains us to have left our home and our people-" "All we have ever known," Jelna interjected. "Given the consequences if we are caught..." Melshik's voice trailed off. As I know all too well, thought Melnea. "I have requested asylum in this Fleet,and it was granted," she said. Melnea looked at both of them. "The Colonials and their Te'rean friends are not the people the State has made them out to be. And Commander Adama is a man of the highest honor and integrity." "It is possible that we may settle on Te'rea?" Jelna asked, and very much surprised. "Very possible," Melnea said. "I have met several, and they are clearly people like us, with their own hopes and dreams, and for them, returning home and resuming their lives is foremost on their minds. I can say this: if you request asylum in the Fleet, in all likelihood, it will be granted." She then related the story of the others, among then the Zhorloch from Eridu, who had petitioned for, and been granted, Colonial Citizenship. Husband and wife had a whispered conversation for a couple of centons, and Melnea respected that. Then Melshik said, "We cannot speak for the others, but....if that is a possibility, then we may very well make that request." If that happens, I will be among my own kind, Melena said to herself. Then she smiled. "When Commander Adama, the Fleet Commander and the Commanding Officer of the Galactica, meets with you, you can make that request if you so choose. There are, of course, the usual legal formalities, but I have no doubt it will be granted." "Thank you," Jelna said. "You are welcome," said Melnea. She gathered her pad and materials, and stood up. "I have to speak with the others, but we will see each other quite soon." "Thank you again," Melshik nodded. After taking her leave, Melnea began the rest of her interviews. She found that all were wanting some kind of refuge from the Risik State, even if that meant never seeing their homes ever again. If they had stayed home, the lucky ones would have been executed, and the unlucky ones slaving their lives away in a Special Regime Camp. The Government must answer to the people, not the other way around, she said to herself, aloud, as she got ready for the last interview-with Jaden and Mesha, "One must be a citizen, and not a subject!" Then a familiar voice spoke. "Just as in the Colonies," Commander Adama said. "Commander," Melnea nearly bowed. "My apologies: it is an old habit." "A habit from your captivity," Adama nodded. He knew of former prisoners of the Cylons, who had done the same to keep from going insane in Cylon captivity. "I wanted to see how you were doing with your interviews." "I will have to present my report at the briefing, Commander. But, so far? All have indicated they are seeking permanent refuge away from the reach of the State. Even if it means leaving their homes forever," said Melnea. Adama nodded. "Have any of them indicated as to asylum in the Fleet?" "All of them want to discuss it amongst themselves," Melnea said. "However, if an offer is made, I expect at least eight requests for it," she added. "And the other two?" "I was about to speak with them," Melnea said. "The....former guard and his would-be bride." Her voice indicated a wariness and suspicion that was familiar to Adama from past dealings with people like Uri. His own suspicions, in fact. "Yes. Do you believe he..." "Betrayed my family, Commander?" Melnea asked. "I have to consider it. Then again, I have to consider the possibility that he did not." Adama put his hand on her shoulder. "Yes...I do not envy you. In any event, Pliny and his students should have the translation of his service record from the camp, and if he is telling the truth about his interactions with the now former prisoners...." "Then he would be likely telling the truth about whether or not he betrayed my family," Melnea finished. "Yes, but I would still be suspicious of him. If he did not, then he may know who did." Her voice was tinged with anger, and to Adama, justifiably so. "You have good reason to do so," said Adama. Lords, to live one's life under the survelliance of the State, never to taste the breath of liberty! "I won't delay you further. When you're finished, and have your report ready, be in the Ward Room at 1600. We'll have a briefing then, and Pliny's students will have something to report." "I will be there, Commander." Melnea stopped to gather her thoughts before going into the interrogation room. Then, after taking a deep breath, she entered, and found the couple sitting there, waiting patiently. Despite her...concerns about the young man, she still greeted them politely. "Good morning," she said. "I am Melnea." "We know who you are," the woman replied. "I am Mesha, and this is Jaden." She gestured to the young man, who seemed to be...worried about Melnea, from his facial expressions. "Your name has been all over the State Media as a Traitor to the State." Melnea looked at her, and recognized her accent from the Southern Archipelago. She seemed to be very willing to talk. "And, by now, yours has been as well." "Yes," Jaden spoke up. "And we have something else in common: our respective parents have been murdered by the State." "Your parents have been executed?" Jaden and Mesha nodded sadly. "My brother is in a Special Regime Camp," said Jaden. "And if not for Mesha and the circle of friends my parents introduced me to, I would be there as well." "And you," Melnea nodded at Mesha. "Would have shared my fate-a camp, and possibly being a slave to some Governor or planetary official." "Yes," Mesha replied grimly. "But the Gods smiled on us, and here we are." Melena nodded again, keeping her own doubts about the Gods to herself, then she looked Jaden straight in the eye. "I have to ask you this, since you knew my parents: did you betray them? That act condemned them to death, me to a camp, my older brother to a Special Regime Camp, and my youngest brother is now a Ward of the State." Her tone of voice was quite cold and harsh. Someone knows, she thought. Nothing is a coincidence. "Melnea, as the Gods are my witnesses, I would never do such a thing!" Jaden shouted, startling both Melnea and Mesha. "Yes, I knew them, and some of their associates, but betray them? Never!" Trying to remain calm, Melnea said, "And you were in General Security during your conscript service," she replied. "There is a saying: 'Once in Security, always in Security'." "I wanted out," Jaden replied. "I was a draftee, and draftees are not given the luxury of choice. They sent me to a place I didn't want to be. To do a job I didn't want to do." "To guard, and if necessary, abuse, the Te'rean slaves," Melnea replied. "They say you did the former, but not the latter." "Yes! I did what I had to do, the bare minimum, so I could serve out my term of service, and go home. I saw two guards transferred, because they were not 'severe enough' in their conduct towards the slaves," Jaden said. "So I did the minimum necessary, and that was that." "And yet," said Melnea. "You were indoctrinated, and did that not...influence you?" "NO!" Jaden shouted. "If I had betrayed your parents, they would have found mine shortly after. They were not discovered and arrested until three standard months ago." He started to cry. "Why would I betray my own family, knowing the fate that awaited them?" Melnea was starting to feel sorry for him, and knew that the State often made promises to those who informed on family members-and just as often broke those promises. Those people found out the State's gratitude by winding up in Corrective Camps themselves. Oh, not right away, but a month or so later, when the publicity had faded. A very few were Heroes of the State, though.... They had betrayed legitimate plots of terrorism and treason, and had been well rewarded. Usually when plots involving high-ranking officials of the State were the matter at hand. Not so here.... "Knowing the....lack of gratitude shown to such people, that is reason enough," she said. "That is correct," Jaden said. "Now, Mesha, your parents were also murdered?" "Yes," Mesha said, sadly. "We have been fleeing ever since." "And you fled with Doctor Melshik and his friends," said Melnea. "Yes," Mesha said, tears in her own eyes. "I know Doctor Melshik-he was the Solicitor for my parents on some legal issues, and when our parents were killed, he took us in." She paused, took a drink of water from a glass on the table, then added, "If not for him, and helping us get on that freighter..." Melnea knew the rest, from bitter experience. "You would be dead, or wishing you were dead," she nodded. "That is certain." Both nodded. "Yes," Jaden said. "And what of the Te'reans?" Melnea gave a summary of the Colonials' story, and that of the former prisoners. "Commander Adama is a man of the highest honor and integrity," Melnea said. "If you want to go on with your voyage, that decision will be respected. If not, and you request asylum in the Fleet? The chances are very good that it will be granted. Yes, there are some legal formalities, but if you want to stay? That option will be available to you." Both had a whispered conversation, and Melnea respected their privacy. Then Jaden said, "And my story at the Camp?" "The camp records are being examined by the Colonials' specialists in such things," Melnea replied. "They will prove, or disprove, your story. Even so, the former prisoners are of a mind not to file any criminal charges. Unlike Tesernavia's case." "Tsernavia?" "He was apprehended at the camp, and faced a Tribunal for his crimes," said Melnea. "Along with the....former Governor, and a captain who had a Te'rean slave on his ship. They had a scrupulously fair hearing, and all of the legal formalities were observed." Jaden looked at her. "And what happened to him?" "He was convicted, along with the others, of kidnapping, torture, slavery, rape, and related offenses, and they were sentenced to be marooned." "All I can say," Jaden said, anger in his voice. "Is that he should have been killed long ago." Melnea nodded. "Yes, I agree. Along with Governor Raduztak." She gathered her materials. "I must go and prepare for a meeting. I will likely see you again tomorrow, and it is possible Commander Adama will want to as well." "And what will become of us?" Mesha asked. "You'll be fed and taken care of," said Melnea. "And if you choose asylum, that will likely be granted." "Thank you," both Jaden and Mesha said almost at once. Melnea nodded. "Thank you as well, for your information." She turned to leave. "Melnea?" Jaden asked. "Yes?" "I'm sorry for your loss. I truly am," Jaden said. "As I am for yours." She then left the room. Out in the corridor, she sagged against a bulkhead, and dropped her pad, hands shaking. "I thought I was over this! O Gods above! I thought I was over this! As the Chrono got closer to 1600, those who would be participating in the Situation Brief began to gather, either in person in Galactica's Ward Room, or via the com from their respective ships. Aboard Constellation, Captain Byrne was in his cabin, and was joined by Lieutenant Sanderson, Sergeant Wagner, and Petty Officer Clemens. When the connection to Galactica was made, the monitor showed the Ward Room, and a familiar face already there. "Well, Sire Pelias? " Bryne said. "It's been a few days." "Not that long since the Tribunal," Sire Pelias agreed. "And we all thought the Risik were behind us." "Things aren't always the way they appear," Sire Xaviar said as he came into the field of view. "Wishful thinking, perhaps, but until we are well and truly out of their sphere of influence, we may still have...problems." Byrne nodded. "That's probably the case, Sire. Commander Allen and I have talked, and we both think there's one more fight coming with these....people." Siress Tinia came on, and she had overheard. "After what we've found out with these people? That wouldn't surprise me at all," she said. "And how is everyone doing aboard the Constellation?" "We're settling in, Siress," Lieutenant Sanderson said. "Some people are adapting better than others, though." "They'll adapt, given time," Wagner added. "The one commodity that we seem to have plenty of," Pelias noted. "And how are you doing, Petty Officer? "Doing fine, thank you. If I can adapt," Petty Officer Clemens said. "The rest of my friends will." "That we will, Petty Officer," Sanderson replied. "That we will. Sergeant Wagner's been a big help." On screen, Pelias nodded. "That is good to know." "And the babies?" Siress Tinia asked. "They're coming along fine," Sanderson said. "And Captain Byrne said this: 'They're not just shipmates, but they're the most precious cargo aboard ship.'" Byrne nodded. "They are, Siress. Who's there?" "Right here, Kev," Commander Allen said from Adelaide. "I've got Captains Ashby and Zhukov with me." "Doctor Wilker's here, along with Academican Sarah, and Melnea has just arrived," Pelias said. Just then, Major Croft came into the room, and there were a few jokes about his having "Gone Earther," due to the SF Team's adopting camouflage uniforms based on Wagner's own BDU pattern. Baltar and the Cylons came on the line, next, and the usual pleasantries were exchanged, before Colonel Tigh arrived. "Everyone, Commander Adama and Captain Apollo are running a little late. A patrol has returned later than expected, and they're wrapping up the debriefing. They will join us in a few centons," Tigh said. "Captain," Xaviar asked Byrne as the others made small talk. "Were you surprised that there was another encounter with a Risik ship? I, for one, was not." "No, Sire, and for good reason," replied Byrne. We may be in uncharted space to their civilians and most of their military, but the Secret Police and their own Star Force's recon units? Different story, and you can be sure of that." "Sire, Captain Byrne and I had a little talk while we were checking out the freighter now in Galactica's Beta Bay," Allen said. "We've probably got one more fight coming with them." "That would not surprise me at all," Xaviar said, and Pelias, who was next to him, nodded. "I agree, Commander," said Pelias. Before either Byrne or Allen could reply, Commander Adama arrived, with Apollo following him. "My apologies, everyone. As Colonel Tigh has told you, a patrol did return late, and we have just finished the debriefing. I see we're all here, so shall we?" He motioned with his hand, and those in the Ward Room took their seats. "Before we begin, I have some news from Chief Zeibert on the Rising Star. The preparations for the Welcome-Aboard Party are nearly complete. I have asked him to hold off until this last bit of business with the Risik is completed, but in four or five days, the Lords willing, our Earth brethren, and you, Melnea," the Commander nodded in her direction, "will have an evening of celebration that is long overdue." "Thank you, Commander," Melnea replied. "I will be honored to attend." "We'll all be there, Commander," Byrne said. "Quite," Captain Ashby added. Adama nodded. "Unfortunately, the news blackout on them will have expired, so IFB will be there. However....However, we'll have some extra Security on hand, so that the IFB crews will be on their best behavior." Tinia tried to suppress a chuckle, but said, "That may be wishful thinking, Commander." "Just as no more bodies fall out of the rafters," Allen said, referring to the recent deaths in the Fleet. "Well, yeah," Byrne said. "There is that." "Perhaps," Adama said. "But we'll have to try anyway." There were a few laughs after that, then Adama nodded. "All right, we'll go over yesterday's engagement, then Doctor Wilker has a few things for us. After that, we'll hear from Academican Sarah and her new assistant, Melnea. Then the floor will be open for further discussion." Heads nodded, on screen and in the room, then Adama nodded to Tigh. "Colonel? "Everyone," Tigh began. "We have had another encounter with a Risik vessel. This one was a Patrol Cruiser, only it wasn't Star Force." "Not their Star Force?" Xaviar said. Then it came back. "Their Secret Police, then." It wasn't a question. "It was them, Sire," Adama replied. "Please continue, Colonel." "Yes, sir," replied Tigh. "After they were detected on long-range scan, Captain Apollo and Strike Leader Orion were launched to investigate. They were chasing a freighter, which showed signs of damage. The Risik launched their scout ships to continue pursuit, while the Cruiser confronted our fighters. Both the Galactica and the Base Ship launched the remainder of the alert force, and then, along with the Constellation, confronted the cruiser." Tinia nodded. "Did he hail us, or did it go the other way around?" "He hailed us, Siress," Adama said. He then replayed the video of the communications between him and the Risik Captain. "He had the gall to demand the return of not only the freed prisoners from Ne'Chak, but also Melnea." "Excuse me, Commander," Melnea said. "He asked for me by name?" "He did," Adama said. "While that was going on, Apollo and Orion's fighters engaged the scouts. Apollo?" "Commander," Apollo said. "Blue Squadron engaged one scout, and it took two passes to kill him." "Two?" Captain Ashby asked. "They're that tough?" Apollo nodded. "They are. These scouts are very well armored." "It's no surprise," Byrne said. "Given how many times on Earth air forces have tried to shoot them down." "It's a given, based on what you and Commander Allen have told us," Adama said. "Orion?" "By your command," the Cylon Strike Leader replied. "Squadron One engaged the second scout, and he was damaged on the first pass. However, as the squadron reformed for a second pass, the target exploded. Either from damage, or by engaging their self-destruct system. It could not be determined which." Apollo nodded. "After that, I had Dietra and her counterpart take half of each squadron to escort the freighter, while Orion and I went to the capital ship engagement." "As the fighters were coming in," Tigh continued. "The Cruiser fired on both the Galactica and the Base Ship with nuclear-tipped missiles. They were decoyed away, and upon returning fire, the Cruiser was destroyed." Pelias nodded. "It's a pity we couldn't have boarded him, Commander. Any charts or other data of this sector would have been invaluable." "It would have been, Sire," Adama said. "However, that information died with them. And the freighter, Colonel?" "He was escorted into the Galactica's Beta Bay, where Major Croft's team boarded the ship." "Very well, Colonel," Adama said. "Major?" Croft nodded. "Commander," the SF leader said. "I took Team One to check the freighter, and both crew and passengers were nervous at first, but when we told them we didn't mean to harm them, they became cooperative. After a brief search, they were taken to Life Center to get checked out, and Captain Byrne's people arrived to give the ship a more thorough search." "What was their demeanor, Major?" Tinia asked. "Given what their propaganda has said about Humans in general, and probably us in particular..." "They calmed down when we told them they wouldn't be harmed, Siress," Croft said. "After that, they did what we told them to do. Then again, seeing heavily armed strangers boarding their ship would frighten just about anyone." "Understandable," Tinia replied. "And the ship itself?" "Captain Byrne can answer that," Adama said. "Captain?" "Commander," Byrne nodded. "Commander Allen and a couple of my people-Lieutenant Sanderson and Sergeant Wagner, checked out that ship. Nothing unusual, he's what Commander Allen would call a typical free trader. And he was headed to the RB-33 Station." "Why the long way, and what was his cargo?" Baltar asked. Though disgusted at having to reply to Baltar, Byrne replied, "His cargo's perfectly legitimate-at least on this trip. Liquor of various types, frozen meat packed in dry ice, chocolate, sugar, and some odds and ends that aren't illegal under most people's law codes. As for the long way there? It's not the cargo that those dirtbags in the Secret Police were after, it was the passengers." Starbuck, on the Base Ship, replied, "The passengers? Who are these folks?" "They're all dissidents," Bryne said. He went on further to explain. "All of them are fleeing the Regime, and know that if they go back, it's a bullet in the back of the head for each of them," Byrne said. "That explains the pursuit of the ship," Moray said. "It does indeed, Command Centurion," replied Adama. "Commander Allen, you and Sergeant Wagner did interview the crew and passengers. What did you find?" "The crew's typical free-trader types," said Allen. "Though they weren't smuggling this trip, they did have a couple of smuggling compartments. Probably to be filled with contraband for the return trip. The passsengers, though? They were the contraband. All but a young couple are in their thirties or older. Nearly all of them are well educated-one's a doctor of psychiatry, another's a lawyer, and one's a journalist. He wrote an article that the priests didn't like, he said, and had to go underground. Their wives are just as well educated, but there's a young couple among them whose parents have been executed for being members of this dissident circle. And while talking to this couple, we found out something about the young man. He's a former guard at the Ne'Chak Slave Camp." Though Commander Adama, Tigh, Sarah, and Melnea knew, along with the Earthers, the others were surprised. Several jaws dropped at the news. How did a guard get away? "In case you're wondering," Sergeant Wagner said. "He left about a yahren and a half ago. This guy was a draftee, and his term of service was up." Croft nodded, and was actually relieved. "I was wondering about that, because you and I both know, Sergeant, we killed just about every Risik there, except for Melena, and the two pieces of trash we took along." "Yes, sir, but in this case, this is one Risik I can feel sorry for," Wagner said. "This is one small fish that I don't mind getting away." Seeing some confused expressions on the monitor, she explained the term. "Same here, Sergeant," Captain Ashby said from Adelaide. "There's a handful that we can say deserved to get away, and this chap's one of them." "What was his duty station?" Xaviar asked. "He was mainly in one of the guard towers, but he did walk the perimeter," Lieutenant Sanderson replied. "He did escort work details on occasion, but he never really hurt anyone." She paused, then added, "That's what he told the Sergeant, and I was watching from the observation booth. He never laid a finger on me." Captain Ashby nodded, as did Zhukov. "I will second that," the British officer said. "I don't recall him ever harming anyone. He would give you a tap on the shoulder with that rubber hose of his, or a prod with a rifle butt, to tell you to get back to work, but other than that?" Zhukov added, "I don't recall him ever hurting anyone as well, and there were rumors he did try to help on occasion, slip someone some food, but I never saw him do so." "He did help," Petty Officer Clemens said. "He did smuggle food from the farm a few times, or looked the other way when we did. I never saw it, but there are people on Constellation who say he did." "And on Adelaide," said Ashby. Wagner spoke next. "Commander, when Commander Allen and I talked to him, he said that when he was drafted, he went into their General Security Department, and was trained as a guard. He was not told where he would be sent, or who he was to be guarding. When he got to Ne'Chak, Scarface and a couple of guards were there at the Spaceport, and this guy was one of those chosen for the guard force. Jaden-that's this fellow's name, says he only found out who he'd be guarding when he got to the camp." Heads nodded, then Adama said, "Melnea? You did interview him. What did he say to you?" Melnea stood to give her report. "Commander, he maintains his innocence in the matter of the former prisoners. And he also insists that he did not betray anyone-including my parents, on the Capital." She paused, took a deep breath, then continued. "His parents and mine did know each other, and were trying-though they had to be cautious, of course. "They want to spread their message, but given the consequences if caught, they had to be careful about who they talk to," Xaviar noted. "The Sire is correct," Moray said. "Logically, if these people want to disseminate their message of reform, their numbers would have to grow." "Indeed, Command Centurion," Adama said. Yet another interesting insight from a Cylon. "But no one knows who is and isn't an informer. The whole system is built on fear. So these people are taking a big risk." Pelias looked around, then asked. "But why punish the family members for the acts of one or two?" "Sire, the State assumes that if a family member, or worse, more than one member, is engaged in subversive activities, then the entire immediate family is presumed guilty," Melnea said. "That judge, Ulrikh, said as such in our 'trial'." "Not unusual in societies such as this," Sarah added. "They are treated as a tumor. One that must be....excised from society. And it instills fear in those who may consider a similar course of action." Byrne recognized it at once. "Nazi Germany, Stalinist Russia, Mao's China, Saddam's Iraq, they all did that. You punish the family for the actions of one. It reinforces control, and they spread it in their propaganda: get out of line and not only do you pay, but your wife and children do as well." "It was very effective in Stalin's time," Zhukov said. "I had a great uncle who was shot for being an 'Enemy of the People,' in the Great Purge." He then explained that time, and went on. "My great aunt was put in a labor camp for fifteen years-yahrens, pardon, and her two children? They were placed in a State Orphanage and did not see their mother for twenty yahrens." There was silence for a centon, then Apollo spoke up. "Just like in the Colonies, pre-Unification. We had a number of dictatorships, and they were just as bad." "Melnea, he insists that he didn't betray anyone-at least knowingly?" Adama asked. "He does, Commander," Melnea replied. "I do believe him at that, but...he may have made a comment in the wrong ear. He may have mentioned his parents-and mine, seeing each other and some friends, talking politics. He and his girlfriend may have been in a cafe, say, talking about this, and someone overheard them." Allen knew what she was referring to. "Dictatorships on Earth like having informers who interact with the public. A waiter, say, or a bartender? Those people make it a habit to listen in." Captain Ashby nodded, then said, "Or the entire room, or building, is bugged." "And the secret police start their work," Adama finished. It was familiar from both Colonial History as well as what they knew about Earth's and from the Ziklagi and the Eastern Alliance. "One last thing before we hear from Doctor Wilker. Melnea, has the matter of asylum in the Fleet come up?" "It did, Commander," replied Melnea. "All of them are inclined to request it. They want to discuss the matter amongst themselves, but they are looking for a permanent refuge from the reach of the State." Tinia nodded. "Commander, if these people are seeking refuge..." "If they wish to continue on their voyage to RB-33," Adama said. "That decision will be respected. However, if they do request asylum, I see no reason why it should not be granted. All of them are well educated, as has been said, and they would be a welcome addition to our population." Heads nodded all around, then Adama asked, "Is there anything else?' "Yes, Commander," Melnea said. "In my interviews, most of them have mentioned that I am now considered, along with the former prisoners from Ne'Chak, to be an Enemy of the State." She paused, then went on. "With a considerable bounty on each of us. We are all wanted alive. With a reward equal to ten thousand Colonial Cubits." After a pause, it was Petty Officer Clemens who said, "We're the Risik's Most Wanted?" She actually felt a sense of pride, being wanted. Not that anyone was ever going have a chance to collect. "Looks that way," Croft said. "Nobody's going to be in a position to cash in, though." "Even so, it does motivate the population to be more supportive than usual of the Regime," Pelias observed. "Exactly, Sire, Adama said. "Thank you, Melnea, and well done." "Commander," Melnea said, sitting down. "Doctor Wilker, the floor is yours," Adama said. "What do you have for us?" The Chief Scientist stood to give his presentation. "Commander, everyone," Wilker said. "We've found a few things of note, and not just from the camp records. First, though, the guard in question." He called up Jaden's file, with the Risik script on one side, and the translation on the other. "Here's what the file on Jaden says. He arrived at the camp as a Private, and did manage to make his way up the ranks through Private First Class to Corporal." "Was he reprimanded in any way?" Lieutenant Sanderson asked. "Yes, as a matter of fact. His promotion to Sergeant was denied for 'Leniency to the Te'rean Slaves,' and it's the Commandant making that note in his file." "Scarface," Ashby spat. "He wanted brutes, and in this case, he didn't get one." "In this case, yes," Wilker replied. "Some of the other guards started out like this one, but did become more....savage, one might say. The Commandant makes the appropriate notes in their files. They even received commendation letters." Hearing that, people shook their heads, and Sanderson said, "That's not a surprise, because there were a few who started out halfway decent, and by the time their tours ended? We were glad to see them go." "Doc, is there anything else on him?" Wagner asked. She did feel sorry for this fellow, doing a job he didn't want to do, in a place he didn't want to be in. Though she would have gladly killed any of the others. Wilker nodded. "The file says that he peformed his non-guard duties in an orderly and efficient manner." "Doing his time in service and trying to blend in," Apollo noted. "Not that unusual in a draftee." "No," Zhukov nodded. In the Soviet Army, the rank and file, along with nearly all the NCOs, were draftees doing a two-year term of service. He had plenty of experience handling conscript soldiers, even though those assigned to the Airborne were among the best. Just the fact that they were elite troops with a bonus of jump pay made his men strut above ordinary soldiers. His airborne troopers would have looked down on lowly guards, he was certain of that. "That does confirm his story," Baltar said. "What about other guards?" "Some of them were transferred out," Sanderson replied. "We know of at least two." Wilker nodded. "There were more," he said. The scientist called up the files. "Five, to be exact. All of them transferred for not being 'severe' in their treatment of the prisoners. Where they were sent, the files don't say." "Either a punishment detail, or a dead-end job where one's chances of promotion go out the airlock," Xaviar said. "Any military force has a way to deal with slackers." "Quite so, Sire," Adama said. "What about the opposite, Doctor? Those guards singled out for commendation and promotion?" Wilker nodded. "There were at least a dozen, Commander," he said as he called up the various files. "Including the Chief Guard." When the ex-prisoners saw the image of the Chief Guard, their faces turned to contempt. "The Bug-that's what we called him," said Ashby. "When he was out of earshot, of course." "A total sadist," Sanderson added. "Everyone crossed paths with him more than once, and has the scars to prove it." She turned to Wagner. "At least with him, Sergeant, you took out the trash when you killed him." "Couldn't have happened to a nicer Boray," Starbuck said from the Base Ship. "Indeed," Adama said. "Doctor, what about the files from the freighter?" "Coming to that, Commander," said Wilker, relieved to be moving on. "One is a chart of this sector." Calling up the chart, he added, "It just shows star types and number of planets in each system." "Have that scanned and put into our database, Doctor," Adama ordered. "Any information, no matter how sketchy, is important." Wilker nodded, "Yes, Commander." He made a note on his pad, then continued. "As for the other files? There's a dozen news stories-and they're all about us," Wilker said. "About us?" Tinia asked. "What do they say?" "The first one's more like an advertisement," Wilker said. Calling up the file, he played it. The Risik voice had subitles for a more easier presentation. Images of the Galactica, Base Ship, Constellation, a Viper, and a Raider came on, and the subtitles announced a reward for information leading to the capture or destruction of these ships that "Committed the aggression against Ne'Chak." "Well, nobody's going to be able to collect," said Byrne. "The further we go, the less likely we run into someone who can report, much less attack." "True, Captain," Adama nodded. "But, as with the bounties, it's a way to motivate their people." Sarah nodded as well. "This isn't unknown, Commander. It's very common in similar societies." "The regime needs an enemy, and we're it," Xaviar said. "Even though we're not coming back anytime soon." "True, Sire," Byrne said. "We know that, and their Supreme Leader and their military high command know as well, but the average civilian, or their military and intelligence service? They don't." "That's likely to be the case," Adama said. "What's the second one, Doctor?" Wilker called up the next video. "It's more of a news story, Commander," he said. Again, the Risik voice was supplanted by subtitles. "They're saying how 'uncivilized' we are, freeing the people held at the camp, as well as calling us pirates." "That's probably the mildest thing they'll say," Byrne commented. "And let me guess: we're a bunch of pirates for capturing the Commandant and the Governor." "You're right about that, Captain," replied Wilker. Then imagery of the three capital ships, including the Galactica's engagement with the Patrol Cruiser Broadsword, and the "Heroic Death" of Admiral Beshik and his crew, came. That was followed by scenes at the spaceport, and claims of civilian damage and casualties, then scenes shot at the camp, before concluding with the statement, "Only through eternal vigilance, faith in the Gods, and the might of the Star Force, can such an atrocity be prevented in the future. And the Te'reans will pay in due time." Commander Allen said, "If they're feeding their people this garbage... a lot of them are going to fall for it." "I agree, Commander," Melnea replied. "Unfortunately, that is more than likely. Some of those I have interviewed have mentioned mass rallies organized by the priests, denouncing the raid, the Ke'zar, and Earth." "They still think Earth did this?" Apollo asked. "Yes," Wilker replied. "One of the other videos says just that, and that the Ke'zar have allied with Earth as well." Sarah nodded. "The Regime is maintaining support, and diverting their people's attention from any domestic...issues, by emphasizing the external enemy. Again, not an unusual behavior in a society such as this one." Like mine, she added silently. "It is an old story," Xaviar nodded. "In our own past, as well as Earth's." "Unfortunately, Sire, you're right," Adama said. "Doctor, I'd like the rest of those videos translated. The more we have about them, the better. Even if it's propaganda." "Pliny and his students are working that right now, Commander," replied Wilker. "They should be finished sometime tomorrow." "Very good, Doctor," Adama said. He saw Byrne nod. "Captain?" "Commander, there's one other bit of news. When Commander Allen and Sergeant Wagner interrogated the freighter captain, he gave them this: Picaja, the smuggler we caught prior to the raid? He has something to say about him." "What did he say?" Tinia asked. "Siress, the Captain said that Picaja and his crew have all been executed," Byrne said. "They were accused of having betrayed Ne'Chak to us." Baltar said, "That appears to be very convienent for certain parties." Adama nodded. Ever the diplomat, he replied, "It would be, and he is also someone convienent enough to take the blame for the raid." "A public scapegoat," Byrne said. Then he explained the term. "Ah," Xaviar said. "So, they do make a public example out of him and his crew." "Exactly, Sire," said Adama. "Now, it's almost 1700, and there's a few more items before we adjourn. First, the Rules of Engagement for the Risik are back in effect, and will remain so until further notice." "Understood, Adama," Baltar said. "Apollo, Orion? The double patrols we had before the raid and after? Resume those beginning tomorrow." Apollo nodded. "Yes, Commander," he said. "I'll inform the squadron leaders." "By your command," Orion replied. "Very well," said Adama. He turned to Tigh. "Colonel, I want you and Command Centurion Moray to start to go over that chart of this sector. See what's potentially usable for us, and what's not. It may only be a basic chart, but it's all we've got at the moment." "We'll get to it, Commander," Tigh said, making a note on his pad. "By your command," Moray said. "All right, and last? Sarah, you and Melnea have another talk with our guests. See if they have anything to add about these rallies, and what their propaganda is saying." Sarah and Melnea exchanged nods, then Sarah said, "Commander." "Very good, Sarah. Now, does anyone have anything else?" Heads shook no, both in person and on the monitors. Adama then continued. "All right, then. We're adjourned for now. Tomorrow, Doctor Wilker should have more for us, as will Sarah and Melnea. We'll reconvene at 1600." Chapter 5: The next morning, Commander Adama came onto the Bridge, after his usual light working breakfast, this time with Sire Xaviar. Over the meal, the Risik passengers had come up in discussion. Both were inclined to welcome them into the Fleet, should they request asylum. With most of them being well educated, they would be a useful addition to the population, being trained in a number of technical fields. Not to mention that the Fleet would be a whole lot safer than that pesthole known as RB-33, which had reminded both of them of the better spots of the Cordugo Pit. After logging in, he then went to the Plot Board, where Colonel Tigh was waiting. "Good Morning, Tigh." "Good Morning, Commander," Tigh replied. "I have the overnight sitrep." Adama nodded. "Very well, what do you have?" "First, one of our patrols has visited this system here," Tigh said, pointing to a system on their right flank. "It's just within patrol range, and they found nothing of use to us. It's an M-class Red Dwarf star. Just an ice world, a collection of gas giants, an asteroid belt, and two rock balls with no atmosphere." "Any sign of our....friends?" "No, sir," Tigh replied. "No buoys or beacons discovered. No ionization trails detected." The Commander checked the plot board. "And this system?" He motioned to a star system on their left flank, closer to the Fleet's course. "Lieutenant Giles will be leading that patrol, Commander," Tigh reported. "It launches in...ten centons." Nodding, Adama asked, "Now, the chart from the freighter?" "Scanned and in our database, Commander," said Tigh. "It does note which star systems are potentially habitable and those that are not, along with star types, but that's it. Other than the Risik designations, which are all just a six-number designator." Adama nodded again as Athena came up with the overnight scanner report. "Father," she said, handing him a pad. "Good morning, Athena," he said as he scanned the information, then signed with a stylus. Nothing detected, not even a rogue asteroid or moon. "Another patch of boring space, I see." "For now, Commander," she replied. "It beats being shot at, but I know it won't stay that way." "No," Adama agreed. "Thank you, Athena." "Father," she smiled, then went back to her station. Adama checked the plot again, then turned to Tigh. "Any word from Pliny and his students?" "They're hard at work, Commander," replied the XO. "They should have those media files available by the afternoon." "Good. And I do have to see Sire Solon. There was the possibility that we might have a hearing, if not a Tribunal, for this former guard. Now that it's shown to be unnecessary, the young man in question may want to give some kind of affadavit about his time there. When he's told that the Commandant has been held to account for his crimes, this fellow may want to have a statement for the record." Tigh nodded. "He does have that right, Commander." "He does," Adama said. "And the repairs to the freighter?" Tigh checked his pad. "Chief Twilly reports that work is proceeding, and should be finished by noon tomorrow. Aside from a few hull plates, the parts came from the freighter's own stores, so we expended little in the way of our own resources, Commander." "Very well," said Adama. "I'll want to meet the passengers either this afternoon, or tomorrow morning. And if any of them request asylum in the Fleet? I'll grant it on the spot." "Yes, Commander," Tigh said. Adama nodded, then went to the Command Station. Something occurred to him, for he turned back to his Exec. "Tigh? The patrol about to launch? Remind them about any buoys or beacons. If they're scanned to be safe, they're to be recovered and brought back." He paused, then added with his trademark smile. "I know Apollo informed the squadron leaders, but remind them again." "Yes, sir." "Very well, Colonel. Is that all for now?" Tigh checked his pad. "It is for now, Commander. You have your speech to the new cadet class at 1330, followed by the usual afternoon conference call with Baltar and the Captains of the Adelaide, Century, and Constellation at 1500. Then there's the Sit Brief at 1600." "Excellent. Thank you, Colonel." Later that morning, Sarah and Melnea left their offices and went to the Brig, where the Risik passengers and crew were being housed. They decided that the Brig was too...cold for the kind of meeting they wanted, so after checking with Adama, a nearby conference room would do. After the passengers were taken there, the two went in. "Good morning, everyone. Please allow me to introduce myself. I am Academican Sarah, and you do know my assistant, Melnea," Sarah said. Seeing heads nod, she continued. "I am an academican and,as you would put it, a former university professor, and before we begin, do you have any questions?" One of the women asked, "What will become of us?" "You do have the option of continuing on your voyage," Sarah replied. "Although that space station which is your immediate destination is not a very nice place." As I know too well, she thought, recalling the fight with Krylon and his associates. "How so?" Emlan asked. He was the psychiatrist, Sarah and Melnea knew. "Not only is it infested with the criminal element, being virtually run by them, with no law and order. There is also the danger from bounty hunters, and possibly agents of General Security," Melnea replied. "All of whom would be looking for you, assuming the notice of the price on your heads has reached the station." "If it hasn't yet, it will soon," Sarah added. "The other option is to request asylum in this Fleet, and I can assure all of you that it will be granted, should that request be made." Melshik, the lawyer, said, "And where is this Fleet going?" "Te'rea," Melnea replied. "It is where the Colonals had kin of theirs settle long ago, what they call The Thirteenth Tribe. Who did give rise to the civilization that exists there presently. Many of the nations on that world welcome immigrants, and you would have the opportunity to start a new life there." There were whispered conversations, then Jaden asked, "Would they welcome those who wanted to conquer their world?" Melnea nodded. "Yes, as a matter of fact. They would not judge you responsible for those plans; only those who worked to plan and prepare for their implementation." "And Commander Adama, the Fleet Commander, is a man of the highest integrity and honor," Sarah added. "If you make the request, it will be granted. Of course, there are some legal formalities that would have to be tended to. There's nowhere in the universe immune from that, but there is no reason why any such request would be denied." "And any such requests can be made in person, for Commander Adama does want to meet with you later today or tomorrow," said Melnea. "I see...." Melshik said. "So, what do you want to discuss?" Melnea looked at her superior, who nodded. Then she spoke. "These rallies that all of you mentioned. How well attended were they, and who was speaking?" "They were very well attended," Melshik said, and the others also nodded. "Attendance was....highly encouraged, and if one could not attend due to one's job? The State Broadcast Service showed them, and they were also streamed online." Melnea was taking notes on her pad. "And the speeches given?" "They were given by various officials: the High Priest was one, denouncing both Te'rea and the Ke'zar as 'heretics and infidel nonbelievers,'" said Melshik. "Various ministers-such as Ilbate-" "The Minister of Colonies," Sarah noted. "We have heard of him before." "Ah," Melshik said. "High-ranking Admirals also spoke, and at the initial rally in the Capital itself? The Supreme Leader himself gave a speech, and the Capital's Sports Arena, where the rally was held? It was filled to overflowing." Sarah nodded herself. Like Melnea, she was taking notes on a pad. "What was the...tone of the speeches?" "Very vitrolic," Jelna said. "The bulk of the venom, shall we say, was directed at Te'rea and the Ke'zar. Some, though, was directed at the other races in the Home Sector." Sarah knew what she was talking about. Races that had been subjugated by the Risik in the distant past, and were charting their own path now. Like Earth. And the Risik had plans to invade not just Earth, but the others as well. She looked at Melnea, who nodded. Melnea had attended similar rallies as a student, both in her secondary school and at the university, where attendance, though not mandatory as at school, was highly encouraged. "Unfortunately, your government is not alone in such things. It has happened before, in the Colonies prior to their being unified under one government, on several worlds adjacent to Colonial Space, and also, on Earth." "I see," Melshik said. "It is kind of a relief, in a way." "How so?" "Knowing that we are not the only people to have known this kind of a government." "We are told that ours is the most....enlightened in the galaxy," Jaden said. "It is taught in school, from the earliest grades on, even in the university. We are the pinnacle, and everyone else is beneath us." "As I'm well aware," Melnea reminded them. "One thing you will see is that the Te'reans are not the people the State has portrayed them as. And the Colonials, by default, are not what the State organs will depict them as." "They have been depicted as 'aggressors, pirates, and heretics'," Jaden replied. Seeing both Sarah and Melnea look at him, he added, "It was so stated at the rally, and in the State Media. As for Te'rea and the Kez'ar? Even the coloring books used by children in nursery schools and nursery ryhmes? The Te'reans and the Ke'zar are depicted as blasphemous aggressors, and our people as the victims." "Ah," Sarah said. That will be of interest to Commander Adama, she thought. Then Melshik began whispering to the others, and heads nodded. "Sarah, would you and Melnea be kind enough to leave us alone for a private conversation? We will be discussing our future plans." "Of course," Sarah said. "We will return after lunch, and there is a chance that Commander Adama, depending on his schedule for the day, will join us." "And if we do request asylum?" "He is of a mind to grant it summarily," Melnea said. "He did so with me." "Thank you." With that, Sarah and Melnea gathered up their materials, and left the room. Both expected the discussion to follow would be spirited, but they also expected all of the passengers to request asylum in the Fleet. It was after 1400 when both Commander Adama and Sire Pelias came to the conference room, and found both Sarah and Melnea waiting outside. "Academician," the Commander nodded politely. "And Melnea." "Commander," Sarah nodded in reply. "And Sire. They have had a long discussion amongst themselves, with a break for lunch, but they are now ready to see us, and you, in particular, I would add." "Very good," Adama said. "And what do you expect?" "Commander," Melnea replied. "They will, in all likelihood, request asylum in the Fleet. I would suggest that if so, they are also invited to the Welcome-Aboard Party. It will be a chance for them to be introduced to the refugees from Earth, and again, an opportunity for them to see that the State's propaganda has been lying." "Agreed," said Adama. "And they will be welcome in the Fleet," Pelias added. "Given that they are well educated, finding a place for them will not be that difficult. Though a dose of exposure to Colonial laws and mores will be needed." "Certainly, Sire," Adama said. Turning to Sarah, he nodded. "Shall we?" Sarah opened the door, revealing the ten Risik passengers sitting around the table. When they saw Commander Adama, all ten stood, as a gesture of respect. "You are Commander Adama?" Melshik asked. "I am," Adama said. "And you are?" "I am Doctor Melshik. Before you ask, I hold a doctorate in law, not medicine." "Well, Doctor," Adama replied. "My own legal staff would enjoy talking with you, to explore the differences between your legal system and ours." There was a laugh at that. "That would be interesting, Commander." Then he noticed Sire Pelias. "And this is?" "May I introduce Sire Pelias, from our ruling Council of the Twelve?" Adama gestured to the Sire. "He not only represents the interests of his own people, but has also taken it upon himself to represent the Earthers and other aliens who now reside in the Fleet. At least for the present." "Ladies, Gentlemen," Pelias nodded politely. "Sire," Melshik said, then he introduced the others. "And we do know the ladies with you from this morning." "Very good," Adama nodded. "Shall we sit?" After everyone was seated at the table, he continued. "Both Sarah and Melnea have told me your stories, and that you are all seeking some kind of permanent refuge from the Risik State." Melshik nodded, as did the others. "That is correct, Commander. We are all fugitives, and as no doubt Melena has told you, there is likely a price on all of our heads now. She, and the....former slaves from Ne'Chak have such rewards offered for their live capture." "She has told us," Adama said. "But no one will soon be in a position to collect, as this Fleet leaves this region of space. Within a few days, the Fleet will be beyond the reach of your, one might say, former government," Pelias said. "I speak for all of us, Commander," Melshik said, and the others nodded agreement. "We would like to be beyond the State's reach. We were hoping to find some sanctuary at the RB-33 Station, but..." "Both Sarah and Melnea have told us about the station and its.....elements," Emlan added. "Some travelers from the Fleet made a stop there, as did the Fleet a few days later," Adama said. "We are familiar with the criminal element in charge there, and I have seen garbage pits more attractive than the station. I can have video scans and other recordings of our time there made available to you, if you wish to still consider the station." "I see.." Emlan said. "And returning is not an option, for we will be killed on return. Either we stay with you, or take our chances on that....cesspool that you describe." Pelias nodded. "That is essentially the case," he said. "If you come with us, your chances are considerably greater." Melshik looked at the others, and they all nodded. "So...then. We have had a private discussion, Commander, and Sire, and have made a decision. It was unanimous." Both Adama and Pelias were paying close attention. As were Sarah and Melnea. "Please, continue," Adama said. Melshik stood, as if giving a formal presentation. "Commander, Sire. Is it in your power to grant asylum?" Adama nodded. "As Fleet Commander and as President of the Council, it is so in my power." "Very well, Commander. We all would like to make that request for asylum." Adama stood himself and put out his hand. "Granted." Melshik shook hands with him, then Adama continued. "Sire Pelias will represent your interests on the Council. There are a few legal formalities that need to be tended to, naturally, but he and his staff will work quickly." "And shall be proud to consider you among my constituents," Pelias said with pride. "What will the Te'reans here think of us?" Mesha asked. "They will be most supportive," Pelias nodded. "You are a different lot than those at the slave camp, and those.....people have paid for their crimes. Either during the raid, or after a Tribunal." "Tsernavia? He has paid?" Jaden asked for the first time. "He has," replied Adama. "He and two other high-ranking personages were in legal proceedings, and were convicted after a scrupulously fair hearing. They have since been marooned. On an otherwise uninhabited world, a considerable distance in our wake." "Marooned..." Jaden said. He was quiet for a centon, then nodded. "Well, then. Even though it is too late, I would like my actions at the camp put on the record. If that is possible?" Adama nodded. "It is. Sire Solon, who is in charge of our legal office, will take care of that." "Thank you, Commander. I only wish I could have seen him in the dock, and given evidence against him." Both Adama and Pelias understood. "You may, if you wish, watch the recordings of the Tribunal," said Pelias. "And there is a legal option of amending the record, post-Tribunal, and in absentia. Sire Solon can give you the details." "I will do just that," Jaden said firmly. "Thank you, Sire." "Very well," Adama said. "I have a conference coming up, as does the Sire..." "Commander, my staff is waiting outside," Pelias said. "I anticipated that they would be needed to handle the legal...formalities required." "Good thinking, Sire," Adama said. "Again, welcome aboard, and in a few days, you will be able to meet those from Earth. And in a much more informal setting." "Thank you, Commander," Melshik said, wiping a tear. "It pains us to leave all we have ever known, but, Melnea has told us your story..." "Everyone in the Fleet has the same story in that regard," Adama said, putting his hand on Melshik's shoulder. "Every one of us left behind all we held dear. You are not alone in this." "Again, Commander, thank you." "Welcome to the Fleet," said Adama. It was almost 1600 when the principals began to gather for the situation brief, either in person in Galactica's Ward Room, or via monitors on the Base Ship, Constellation and Adelaide. On Constellation, Captain Byrne, Lieutenant Sanderson, Sergeant Wagner, and Petty Officer Clemens were in Captain Bryne's cabin, and they were tuned in. On the monitor, they saw Sire Pelias. "Sire," Byrne said. "Captain," Pelias nodded. "How are things going today?" "The babies are coming along fine, Sire. And everyone's looking forward to the Welcome-Aboard Party. Fortunately, no one's asked me to handle diaper duty as yet." "Ah, and speaking of which, we will be having some additional guests," the Sire said. "The passengers on the freighter will be coming with us." The four Earthers looked at each other. "They asked for asylum, Sire?" Sanderson asked. She had no problems with Risik in general, but like the others, she wanted anyone involved in the abuctions to die-preferably slowly and painfully. "Yes, and Commander Adama has granted their request. I know this can be....delicate, so I've arranged for them to go aboard the Caspia for now." "A very wise decision, Pelias," Sire Xaviar said as he came onto the monitor. "Though they are different than the brutes who ran the camp, there may be....issues if our Earth friends and the Risik are on the same ship for the rest of the voyage-however long that may be." Sanderson nodded. "Sire, we're not angry with them. The ones we want dead have either been killed in the war with the Ke'zar, or were killed in the raid. Anyone not in those categories is still on the Capital, and they're likely going to die in bed." "Unfortunately," Petty Officer Clemens added. Unless those Ziklagi or someone else shows up..... "But these people?" Wagner said next. "They wanted to change their whole system, and had to run for their lives. I could sit down with them over dinner and have a nice chat." Pelias smiled. "You will have the chance to do that, Sergeant," he said. "They will be invited to the Party, and not just to put any...hard feelings aside. It will show that their propaganda has been lying." "An excellent suggestion," Siress Tinia said as she came into view. "Who's all there, Siress?" Byrne asked. "The three of us are here, and Major Croft has just arrived." On the monitor, the Commando leader came into view, and greetings were exchanged. Commander Allen, along with Ashby and Zhukov from Adelaide, then came onto another monitor. "Kev, those passengers are comin' along for the ride?" "More than that, Ced," Byrne replied. "We might have some for neighbors when we get home." "That's ironic. They wanted to take Earth, and some of 'em might wind up living there anyway," Allen said. "I still think there's going to be one more fight with these people. And I do use that term lightly." Xaviar and the others nodded. "If the past is any guide," Tinia said. "It is likely." "I'd bet money on it, Siress," Allen replied. Baltar, Moray and Orion came on the line, along with Starbuck, from the Base Ship, and the usual pleasantries were exchanged, then Wilker came in. Colonel Tigh and Apollo followed a centon later. "Everyone, Commander Adama will be right with us," the XO announced. A few centons later, Commander Adama, along with Sarah and Melnea, arrived, and they were accompanied by a male Risik. "Good afternoon, everyone. I see we're all here. This is Doctor Melshik, and he is the spokesperson, you might say, for the freighter's passengers. All of whom have requested asylum. That request has been granted." "Thank you, Commander," Melshik replied, bowing. "He is a doctor of law, not medicine," Adama added. "So Sire Solon and Sire Memnon will be very interested in having a chat or two with him." "No doubt, Commander," Tinia said, smiling. "No doubt," Adama agreed. After introducing everyone, he said, "Melshik, and you do not like using the 'Doctor' term, I understand?" Seeing Melshik nod, he continued. "If you have questions or comments to add? Please, don't hesistate to offer them. As I told Melnea when she first appeared at one of these meetings, everyone's opinion is valid here." "I will, Commander," Melshik replied. "It is an honor to be seated with her." "How so?" Baltar asked. "She has been labeled as an Enemy of the State," Melshik said with pride. "As have all of the fugitive slaves-the State's term-from Ne'chak. I believe she has told you as such." "She has," Croft said. "Though it might be a good idea to use the term 'liberated' from here on." "Of course," Melshik said. He saw the ex-prisoners on the monitors. "My apologies, and no offense intended." Captain Ashby nodded. "Understood." "So, shall we begin?" Adama said. "Doctor Wilker has some new material for us, then a patrol summary, and we'll hear from our Risik guest, who will be joining us, as you've no doubt heard by now. Then the floor will be open for other matters." Heads nodded, then Adama gestured to the Chief Scientist. "Doctor Wilker, you may begin." "Thank you, Commander," Wilker said as he stood up. "Everyone," he nodded. "Pliny and his students have completed their translation work, and not only did they crack the video files, but someone on the freighter downloaded some news stories from their online news service, which is State-controlled." "Of course," Apollo observed. "And let me guess: it's the usual venom directed against not only Earth, but the Ke'zar?" "It is," Wilker said. He played two of the videos, and the speakers denounced the "Colonial Te'reans and the treacherous Ke'zar" for their "Aggression" against the "Defenseless colony world of Ne'Chak." "Sounds like some of the propaganda dictatorships on Earth put out," Byrne noted. "The crap Saddam Hussein put out before and during the Gulf War, the Iraq War in 2003; North Korea's bombast, and the stuff the Nazis put out during World War II." "Yes, you've shown some of that from the Saint Brendan's files," Wilker said. "It was familiar in tone, as well as some of the terminology, Pliny told me." "Doctor," Pelias asked. "Do any of these show the rallies?" "Good question, Sire," Adama said. "Especially if there's one showing the Supreme Leader." "Actually, yes to both," Wilker replied. He called up another video, and the imagery of a sports arena, with a speaker's podium in the center, appeared. The crowd was considerable, and looked to everyone as being standing room only. "Were people, uh, 'encouraged', shall we say, to attend these?" Byrne asked. With any dictatorship, there were true believers, then there were the majority who simply went along with it, along with the minority who tried to resist. Though with the Risik, those who were in the latter category were a very small minority. "May I, Commander?" Melshik asked. "I believe I can answer the question." "Certainly," Adama said. "Please, go right ahead." "Attendance was highly encouraged," Melshik said. He looked around the conference table, and on the monitors. "Even if one could not attend due to one's job or schooling? The rallies were broadcast, and were also online." "Figures," Allen nodded. "They want everyone to show they're loyal, and, as we say back on Earth, 'rallying around the flag.'" "That is exactly what they are doing," Sarah pointed out. "This society is not unusual. Exaggerating a threat so that the population is motivated and loyal, after being made to see the 'enemy' as a threat, and the government as a savior is an old story. Common in many cultures, human and otherwise." Including mine, she silently added. "Quite," said Adama. He then nodded at Wilker to continue, and the recording resumed. "There will be a reckoning!" The speaker at the podium shouted. "The Te'reans, whether from these 'Colonies' or from Te'rea itself, will pay in due time for their outrageous, blasphemous outrages, not only against our people, but the gods as well! So will their sponsors, the Ke'zar, who no doubt encouraged them to commit this atrocity." Those at the table and on the other ships studied the speaker. He was dressed in some kind of toga, which Melshik explained was the Supreme Leader's official public dress. The sashes signaled his status as Head of State and of the State Religion, while a belt-bright red with a number of decorations, denoted his status as Commander in Chief of the Risik Armed Forces. It was a part of his persona. "The Te'reans are a low race!" The Leader continued. "They are a morally, spiritually, and until recently, a technologically inferior society, well beneath ours. Once, they knew civilization and order. And one day, they shall do so again! When our boots walk their soil and march through their shattered cities, they will bow down and obey their rightful masters! As the Gods so decree!" Croft shook his head. "We've heard this before, from Scarface and the ex-governor, but this is from the top man himself." "It does remind me of the Imperious Leader," Baltar said. "The Leader did give some speeches, where he reminded the High Command that their destiny was to spread their might and power, and crush anyone who dared stand in their way." "It is logical," Moray added. "The Risik Leadership needs to have their population completely loyal. An external threat-a real one or one that is created, serves that purpose." Adama nodded. Another insight from a Cylon.... "It does, and quite well." He turned to Wilker. "Anything else?" "Yes, Commander," Wilker said. He called up several printed stories. "These mention some of the 'atrocities' allegedly committed. Destroying the civilian shipyard-" "Which was building military starships," Apollo pointed out. "That's right, but the average civilian or military person won't know that," Byrne said. Adama nodded. "That's very true, Captain," he said. "What else are they saying, Doctor?" Wilker scrolled down, with the Risik language and the translation side-by-side. "The raiding party is being called 'pirates' for taking State property." "The prisoners, in other words," Sanderson spat. "Yes, and also for 'kidnapping' the Governor and the Commandant of the camp. Along with piracy for seizing Lemeshik's ship-and him." Xaviar nodded. "Speaking of those three, is there any mention that they've been rescued?" "Nothing, Sire," Wilker replied. "It doesn't mean that it hasn't happened, though." "If they had been," said Melnea. "They would have been depicted as Heroes of the State. If they have been rescued, it is likely that they are already dead. Executed for Incompetence, State Treason, and Dereliction of Duty." "Crappy retirement plan," Allen muttered. "So," Pelias said. "They are more useful as martyrs, even if they have already been disposed of." It wasn't a question. "That is one way of putting it, Sire," Melnea said. "I have seen this with people who have been rewarded for betraying others. They are hailed as examples to be emulated, rewarded with monetary rewards, promotions at work, and so on. A secton or so later, these people do experience the full gratitude of the State, by being arrested themselves." "Sweet," Byrne nodded. "So they wind up slaving away their lives in a camp anyway," Wagner said, shaking her head. "Because they betrayed family, they might be involved and trying to cover their own tracks." Melnea nodded in reply. "That is one way of putting it, Sergeant. The State reserves its genuine gratitude for those who betray plots at the highest level against the State. Those people do earn and keep the promised rewards." "A very deceitful system," Tinia noted. "Very, Siress," Adama said. " And a very effective one. Anything else, Doctor?" "No, sir. Not at this time," replied Wilker. "Pliny and his students are going after their historical database. Their visits to Earth, both in recent times and those more in the past. And, of course, the war with the Ke'zar." "Very good, Doctor. Keep us informed about what they find." "Yes, Commander," said Wilker, making a note on his pad. "Apollo, Orion?" Adama asked as he moved on. "Anything from our Patrols?" "Nothing, Commander," Apollo replied. "One patrol's still out to a system, and they're not due back until later tonight." "That is so, Commander," Orion added. "No Risik ships detected, nor any signals on any frequencies, Standard or Gamma." "That's a relief," Tigh said. "Maybe, Colonel," Xaviar said. "But there is still the possibility that we will have one more clash with these...people, before we get out of their reach." Baltar agreed. "I'll second that, Adama. We're still within range of that forward base. And as we know, they do attack on sight." "And that means at the very least, a long-range scout, if not another Exploratory or Patrol Cruiser," Apollo reminded them. "Or two," Byrne added. "We've got the firepower to deal with them, if it comes to it." "We do, Captain," Adama nodded. "As Baltar said, we're still within range of that base, and will be for four more days. Once we're clear, we can return to a normal alert status. Not until then." "Yes, Commander," Tigh said. "By your command," Orion added. Adama nodded, then gestured to Melshik. "I think it's time we heard from the representative of our new travelers. Melshik, the floor is yours." "Thank you, Commander," Melshik said, then he rose to speak. "On behalf of my fellow passengers, thank you for granting our request for asylum. Who are we? A small group of those who wanted changes in the Risik State. Changes that, thanks to Melnea, you are familiar with." "You wanted a return to a more democratic form of government," Tinia said. "Not unlike the Colonies, or many of Earth's nations." "Yes, Siress," Melshik replied. "However, the eyes and ears of the State are everywhere. No one knows who is or isn't an informer, and those who are in opposition to the State must be cautious." Byrne nodded. "Not unlike the Soviet Union, Nazi Germany, or, in more recent times on Earth, Saddam Hussein's Iraq or Fidel Castro's Cuba." He then explained the countries and their systems for Meshik's benefit. "The word 'freedom' almost became a mockery." "I see...So we are not alone in such things," Melshik said. "In all of our schooling, from the earliest level all the way through post-graduate studies, we are taught that our society is at the pinnacle of civilization, and all those in the galaxy are beneath us. And are thus in need of what the State calls 'Civilization and Order.'" He saw on the monitors the Earthers all developed scowls, and realized he'd said something upsetting. "Is something wrong?" "No," Captain Ashby said from Adelaide. "It's just that those of us from the camp got force-fed that bilge all the time we were there. And to a man and woman, all of us who were there would rather not hear that phrase again." Melshik understood. "My apologies, Captain," he said. "Where was I? Oh, yes. We developed a circle of those who shared similar views, and despite the murders of Melnea's parents and their friends, we managed to grow. From a few to about thirty. All well educated, and feeling that free thought was a more important use for one's brain than just keeping the ears apart in one's head." "One would assume that universities would be fertile breeding ground for such thoughts," Adama noted. "It was in the Colonies." "And on Earth," Byrne added, recalling the various movements that took off in the 1960s and beyond, many of which got started on college campuses. "Ordinarily, I would agree, but the universities are quite....loyal. To become a professor, one must not only have the required academic qualifications," Melshik nodded at Sarah, then continued. "But one must also swear an oath of loyalty to the State." "And keep an eye on the students," Pelias observed. It wasn't a question, from his tone of voice. "That is so, Sire," Melshik replied. "In my education, and when I was a professor myself before going into private practice-my doctorate is in law, as I said-I was required to report any student who was potentially subversive. I did not make any such reports." "But you were found out eventually," Apollo said. "How?" "Who knows?" Melshik said. "It could have been anyone. Most of our group, and their families, were arrested, and either 'tried' and executed, or sent to Special Regime Camps. Some, who didn't arrive in time to make the voyage, we hope did manage to go underground, but I fear the worst." "And so, here you are," Croft said. "That space station you were going to isn't exactly a nice place." Melshik nodded. "So we have been told. But we felt we had no other choice. We were hoping to find passage from there to a world that would welcome us. Failing that, a world we could colonize ourselves. But, circumstances have given us another path. One we intend to follow." Adama smiled. "And so you will," he said. "And not just in the Fleet. When we do reach Earth, you will find that many of her nations welcome immigrants. The countries from which Captain Byrne and Commander Allen hail among them." "Thank you, Commander," Melshik replied. "We will offer whatever we can to you as we move forward. It is ironic, though. We may be the first Risik in many years to see Te'rea-Earth, but will do so as potential settlers, not conquerors." "As it should be," Lieutenant Sanderson said. "My country welcomes immigrants, and you'll have every opportunity to build a new life." "Quite," Adama said. "Now, we'll be maintaining the increased alert for the next four to seven days, until it's absolutely certain we're clear of Risik pursuit. Then we'll have the Welcome-Aboard Party for not just our newest travelers, but our friends from Earth." "A night we're looking forward to," Ashby said. "Indeed," said Pelias. "The day after tomorrow? We'll be releasing the freighter, as its repairs will be complete. Then we'll put as much space between that position and us as possible. And once he's clear....." Baltar knew what Adama had in mind. "Another minefield, Adama?" "Just a dozen or so," Adama said. "Hopefully, that will discourage any further pursuit. Any other comments?" There were none. "All right, we're adjourned for now." As those in the Ward Room headed for the door, Adama signaled to Croft. "Major, a moment, please." Croft waited until the room had been cleared of everyone else. "Commander?" "Major, I have a job for you, in addition to your normal duties as head of the Special Forces Team," Adama said. "I've reactivated the Fleet Intelligence Unit, but the only people our computer search has found are either junior officers, Petty Officers or Sergeants, and enlisted. Even a couple of people who were in the Colonial Intelligence Bureau, but none were of high rank in that organization. I need someone to be in charge of that unit, and you're available." "Commander, The only intelligence training I had was at the Academy," Croft protested. "And that was quite a while ago." Adama nodded. "I know, Major. But you're the only ranking officer available with such training. Wilker's people are masters at obtaining information, but they're not analysts. Sooner or later, they will make a mistake, and that could cost lives." "So you'd like some more sets of eyes on the information," Croft said. "I can do that, Commander." Adama nodded. "Very good. This won't interfere too much with your regular duties in the Special Forces Team, and the FIU people, seeing you in that uniform, will realize that they have to be right every time, because it could be your astrum on the line if they get it wrong." "If I have to put the Fear of God into them, I will, sir." "That's good, Major. Now, the FIU will prepare intelligence summaries as needed; for myself, Captain Apollo, Baltar, Captains Byrne and Betz, Commander Allen, and yourself, as well as one or two members of the Council. A less....sensitive version will be needed for wider distribution, for example, to Squadron Leaders and your Team leaders." Croft knew what the Commander wanted. "Understood, sir." "Very good. Now, you'll also have access to Commander Septimus. He will be of considerable use, and not just from an intelligence perspective. If he's seen by Baltar and the Centurions as serving us, it just reinforces the Detente all that more." "I get it, sir," Croft replied. "Excellent, Major," Adama said. "This won't be too much of a burden, I hope." Croft nodded. "As Captain Byrne has said, 'Overcome and adapt,' sir." "Very well, Major. And if circumstances require you to return to the Team full-time, let me know." "I will, sir." Adama and Croft shook hands. "Thank you, Major. And good luck." Chapter 6: The following day was a normal one, as far as Commander Adama and most of the Fleet were concerned. The double patrols were back in effect, and so far, no Risik ships had been detected, though a Red Squadron-led patrol had brought back an intact Risik remote probe. The probe had a self-destruct charge, but jamming had disabled the circuits, and once in Galactica's Beta Landing Bay, an EOD team had been able to disarm the charge. Unfortunately, the data recovered was for a star with no real system, just a protoplanetary disk, with planets still forming. Even the data plate on the probe showed its scientific origins: not just the Risik Scout Service, but the Capital University Science Institute. Still, the data was duly uploaded into the Galactica's database, before the probe was sent to the Foundry ship for recycling. That day, Croft met the members of the Fleet Intelligence Unit, and they were as Commander Adama had described. Junior Officers, or NCOs and enlisted, with a couple of ex-analysts from the Colonial Intelligence Bureau thrown in for good measure. And Commander Septimus. Croft impressed upon the FIU members the need for accuracy in their analysis, and that to assume the best case in any given situation was inviting trouble at best, and at worst, getting people killed, with Viper Pilots and his Special Forces Team being the likely casualties. His meeting with Septimus was much more cordial. "Commander," Croft said when he met the IL. Had they met at Arcta, he would have happily blasted the IL into scrap metal. Doubtless, the IL would've returned the favor. But now...the Cylon was an asset. "Major," Septimus replied, imitating a human bow. "I am at your disposal." "Very good. Have you examined the data we've acquired so far on the Risik?" For he had a good idea, just as Captain Byrne and others felt, that there would be one last battle with the Risik Star Force, before they left this region of space behind them for good. And that was Commander Adama's top priority at the moment. "Yes," the IL said. "This is a race that is not just persistent, but it could be described as fanatical, even cult-like." "Cult-like?" Croft was confused. "All of our thinking has been they're a combined military-religious dictatorship." Septimus nodded. "They are, Major, they are. However, the devotion that the general population shows, as evidenced by the video scans of rallies on their Capital World, would indicate a situation very similar to a cult, as you Humans use the term. Everything the State does or decrees is couched in terms best described as religious. Supposedly the will of the Risik deities. Even if this devotion is superficial, the population is still loyal to the Risik State and its aims." "Like the Il Fadim? At least with the hard-core leadership and the real true believers?" "Very much so," Septimus agreed. He had uploaded and analyzed the information about that horrid cult. "Only these people have the power and resources of a multi-system state at their disposal, and the technological ability to enforce their will. I see no reason why they should change their goals, as long as the current regime is in power." Croft thought for a moment, going back to the briefings and the discussion about the Risik dissidents now in the Fleet. "And the chances of something happening to change that?" "The chances are very slim, I would estimate,based on the data we currently possess," Septimus said. "The regime's ruthless approach to the crushing of any dissent, no matter how minor, indicates their hold on power is very solid indeed." The SF leader nodded. "That's what I was afraid of, and so is Commander Adama," he said. "So, unless someone comes along and stops them, they're going to do what they set out to do." It wasn't a question. "I am afraid so," replied the IL. "They will rebuild the damage inflicted on them at Ne'Chak, then they will subjugate the non-spacefaring races in this region of space, before they move to attempt to reclaim their home world. And, given the emotional nature of such beings, they will, no doubt attempt to expiate their anger by, as Starbuck would say, 'taking it out' on whomever they conquer. " "Lords help anyone they meet! And when they do get into their home sector, they'll have a fight with the Ke'zar, along with the other races in that area, and that includes Earth." "Exactly. Unless, of course, as you said, someone does come along and stop them." A thought then came to Croft, one that had come up in more than one sit brief. It was something that both Captain Byrne and Sergeant Wagner had mentioned. That once the Fleet got to Earth, and that world began to gain the ability to defend itself, Earth might want to take more serious measures to ensure security from the Risik. And that meant going out and dealing with them-so that they never threatened Earth-or anyone else-ever again. If that meant making common cause with the Ke'zar and the other, so far unknown, races, then so be it. "That means that in fifty or a hundred yahrens, it's our grandchildren-and Earth's, who have to do that." "That is a very real possibility," Septimus agreed. "Unless..." "Yes?" "They encounter the Cylon Alliance. While that would be good for no one, the Alliance would, as you Humans like to say, 'clean their clocks'." "I'll agree with that. Their ships are no match for a Base Ship." The IL nodded, again in the imitation of a human bow. "Quite true, Major. I have done several battle simulations, and uploaded them to your database, should they be of need." "Thank you, Septimus. Now, then. I'd like to give the Commander an estimate as to how long it'll take them to recover from the raid. Not just the physical damage to Ne'Chak's facilities, but how long to replace the ships that were destroyed. And add this: how long until they start to get serious again about territorial expansion. You'll have all the information recovered from their database so far, and more information is becoming available." Croft looked at the IL, and the Cylon could tell the from the look in his eyes, and his voice, that he was very serious. "Can you..." "It can be done, Major. I will get to work on it straight away." "Thank you. Let me know when you have your preliminary report." "Of course, Major." The following day, the freighter and its crew were released, and allowed to continue on their voyage to RB-33. Before departing, the Captain had wanted to pay for services rendered, and did so first with the maintenance people who had repaired his ship, with a case of ale from the cargo hold. After speaking with Sire Pelias, the Captain also agreed to pay with four crates each of chocolate and sugar, both items in very short supply in the Fleet; a case each of ale and wine, and a pair of crates of frozen meat (after testing). Once the deals had been made, the freighter launched from the Galactica, and upon clearing the Fleet, set a course for RB-33. "That's taken care of, Tigh," Adama said as the freighter cleared the battlestar's scanners. "Yes, Commander," Tigh replied. "And do you still want Baltar to leave a minefield?" Adama nodded. "That Captain may have been charming and personable, but when he gets to RB-33, I'd lay money that he'll, as they say, blab about encountering us, and where. Not to mention we're not that far from where we had our most recent skirmish with the Risik. A few presents for anyone trying to follow up his report, or searching for that missing cruiser, are in order." "Anything to discourage further pursuit, Commander, is a good thing," Tigh said. "That it is, Colonel," Adama nodded. He turned to Omega. "Get me Baltar, please." "Right away, Commander,"said Omega. The connection was made quickly, and Baltar's face appeared on a monitor. "Yes, Adama?" "Baltar, as you've probably noticed, the freighter is now off our scanners. Let's get the minefield laid." The traitor nodded. "Understood, Adama. How many mines do you want?" Adama thought for a moment. With no planet or moon to protect-or interdict, it was a problem. Then he came to his decision. "Let's do the same with the last field laid. Ten mines. Each with a twenty-four Centar delay." Baltar nodded, then turned to Moray and relayed the orders. "Consider it done, Adama. We're breaking formation to lay the mines." "Thank you, Baltar. Please report when the mines are laid." "I shall." "Very good, and please give Ayesha my regards." Baltar nodded. "I will, and a good day to you, Adama." The Base Ship left its station in the Fleet, and laid its minefield. Once the mines were laid, the Cylon warship returned to its normal Fleet Station, and Baltar reported back. "Adama, the mines are laid. And with the time delay." "Very good, Baltar. Now, we have three more days before we're out of effective range of that outpost on Mut'la. That's their most forward base, and the sooner we're clear of them, the better," Adama said. "Agreed. Though I'm wondering about one thing." "Yes?" Baltar had a grin on his face. "What was their reaction to the first minefield, or the second?" It was Adama's turn to grin. "A pity we'll never know, but it would've been interesting to see. Again, thank you, Baltar." "My pleasure, Adama." Unknown to either Adama or Baltar, or anyone else in the Colonial Fleet, that very subject was being discussed on the Risik Capital. In his Council Chamber, the Supreme Leader was meeting with his Council and closest advisers, and a full recap of the events dealing with the Colonial Fleet was the topic of the meeting. "The swine Lemeshik is to blame for all of this starting in the first place," the Leader said menacingly. "Has there been any progress in locating him-or the other two officers?" Admiral Triligan shook his head. "Unfortunately, Your Eminence, there has been no report of their being found. You will recall that they were to be marooned after the Ranger was released." Shurik, the head of the Scout Service, nodded. "I concur, My Lord. My scouts have been ordered to give all assistance to the Star Force in this matter, and they have found nothing so far. No sign of the Colonial Fleet, nor any sign of where the three officers were marooned." "If they were marooned," the Chief Magistrate, Ulrikh, said. If he had been judging them, he would have ordered them executed at once. "They may still be valuable sources of information for these....Colonials." "I agree with the Magistrate," Iakir, the new Director of State Security, said. "Before marooning them, I would treat them as a well, from which much information could be extracted." "Unless, of course, they have been marooned. Given the distance to the Frontier," Admiral Triligan replied. "It will still be some time before we have new information." The Leader sighed. Nothing that he didn't already know, and the fact that FTL communications were still in the research and development stage annoyed him. Oh, to be able to hear from Vice-Admiral Teshan before his ships returned home. Most likely empty-handed, he knew. And if some of his ships did encounter the Colonial Fleet? Not even a Strike Cruiser, their largest ship available, could stand up to the Galactica, or the other two capital ships known to be escorting that convoy of heretical refugees. Being ex-Star Force himself, he knew that any engagement right now would just be target practice for the Colonials. "Understood, Admiral. Fighting ships are the most precious thing we are in need of at the moment, and any rash engagements are to be avoided at all costs," the Leader said. "Now, what of these mines?" "We still do not know much, Your Eminence," Triligan replied, nodding at Staruik, the Minister of Research and Development. His people had been called in to assist in the exploitation of any recovered Colonial ships or technology. "One mine has been successfully disarmed and returned, but the cost was frightful. One mine was brought aboard a patrol cruiser, then suddenly, the ship blew apart." "Anti-handling devices?" Staruik asked. "Yes. Consider this: A second mine went off when a team in a EVA pod got close to examine it, killing them instantly. A third mine was successfully recovered, and is now in the Star Force Technical Intelligence Department, where technicians are examining it, with the help of Minister Staruik's department. They have found two types of anti-handling devices, and there may be more." "I see," the Leader said. "Report when your technicians have unraveled this mine's secrets." "Yes, Your Eminence," Triligan said. "Now, as all of you know, a recent sighting of a Colonial fighter may signal another one of these battlestar warships. If you'll recall from Commander Morovik's debriefing, Commander Adama did tell him about a second battlestar that may have survived the destruction of their home worlds. This ship may be following the Galactica and her fleet, intending to join them on their course for Te'rea." High Priest Si-um, the most senior cleric, asked, "As I have said at other meetings, I am not a military man. What does that mean?" General Arkom, the CINC-Army, responded, "It means this, My Lord. If a second battlestar joins with the Colonial Fleet, that fleet will have vastly increased firepower, and thus be essentially invulnerable to attack from our side." Though it disturbed him to do so, Director Iakir agreed. "I concur in that assessment. And they will reach Te'rea long before we will be in a position to do so ourselves." "And that is one more ship that could be spared for any independent operations, should this Commander Adama so decide," Triligan added. He had seen Commander Adma's message several times, and not only considered him a worthy adversary, but a dangerous and cunning one. Ilbate, the Minister of Colonies, asked, "How soon until they reach Te'rea?" Iakir shook his head. Nodding at the Admiral, he said, "There are so many variables involved, neither General Security nor the Star Force Intelligence Department can give a reliable answer." Ilbate was not happy with that, nor was the Leader. "Then what can you tell us?" "Only that, barring their encountering someone much stronger than us, and being destroyed, they will reach Te'rea." Iakir looked around the table and saw that only the military, along with the Leader, were in agreement. "It is the most reliable answer I can give, My Lords." "Star Force Intelligence concurs," said Admiral Triligan. "It does not matter when they reach Te'rea," the Leader said coldly. "All that matters is that we rebuild the Star Force to a level that surpasses the strength we had before the war, and that we use it, quickly and decisively. When we are able, we shall pacify the nonbelievers in this sector, and using their resources, push on until we return to the Home Sector. Then, we shall extract the full measure of revenge against the Ke'zar, before reminding the other races, the Egynians, Gut'tlans, and especially the Te'reans-and their Colonial allies-who their masters truly are. They were slave races to us before, and shall be again! It is our destiny, and nothing, not even the Cylons, or the Ziklagi, will stand in our way!" Both Admiral Triligan and General Arkom looked at each other, and nodded. The Leader was taking this too personally. And yet, he was right. Right now, recovering from Ne'Chak was top priority at the moment, and everything else was secondary. The Admiral glanced over at Iakir, who nodded at him. Good. For this time, the Military and State Security were seeing things the same way. "Of course, Your Eminence," the Admiral said. "Recovering from Ne'Chak, and moving forward, will take time. The new cruisers-our first heavy and light cruisers since the loss of the Homeworld, will be a major step forward." "And it will be, Admiral," the Leader replied. "Though it may take several generations to do so. With the blessing of the Gods, we will do just that." "As the scrolls so pronounce, it shall be done," Si-um said. Professor Tsu-lan, who had been silent during the bulk of the meeting, decided to speak up. "My Lords, all of that will happen, the Gods be praised. However, I must point out that the arrival of the Colonial Fleet at Te'rea will mark a change in that world. They will know for the first time that there is life beyond their own world, and that we are a threat to them. The bickering nation-states of Te'rea will set aside their own differences to make common cause in off-world matters, and they will prepare for our return." The Leader looked at him. "Are you certain of that, Professor?" "I am, My Lords. The civilized Te'reans who have been working with me and my colleagues are insistent on this. And the messages left by the fugitive slaves and their rescuers only reinforce that conclusion." There was silence around the conference table for a tenarii, as the Council considered what the Professor had said. "And if they do make common cause?" The Leader asked. "It is not a question of our finding them, Your Eminence," the Professor replied calmly. "It will become a question of their coming out and looking for us. The Te'reans have a saying: 'The best defense is a good offense.'" "And thanks to the Colonials, they will know where to find us," said the Leader, his voice concealing a building rage. "No matter what they do, by building up a defense force, and a Fleet for offensive operations, the Chosen Race will triumph. It is our destiny!" "Again, as the scrolls pronounce, it shall be done," Si-um added calmly. "It shall be," the Leader's said as he calmed down. "Thank you, everyone." After the Council and the Military leaders had left, the Leader remained, with his Chief Aide alongside. "My Lord?" The Aide asked. "You were....distressed." "So, we no longer have an immediate threat, but one that, over the long term, may very well be even more dangerous," the Leader commented. "Especially if the Te'reans, once the Colonial Fleet arrives and they begin to develop their own starships, decide to ally with the Ke'zar." "Why would the Ke'zar ally with them?" "A common enemy. Namely, us," the Leader retorted. "If they do that, then we will be in serious trouble indeed. More if they decide to come back and finish what both of them have started." That he would not allow, the Leader vowed. "What is on my schedule for the rest of the day?" "You have an economic meeting, with the Minsters of Finance and Trade. Followed a rally in the Sports Palace this evening." "Very well. Cancel the economic meeting, and inform the ministers that it will be rescheduled. Now, get Professor Tsu-lan back here, and have one or two of the 'Civilized' Te'reans join us. I want to know how long until the Colonial Feet does arrive at Te'rea, and not only how long before that world not only can defend itself, but becomes a more serious problem. With or without the Ke'zar's help, I would add." "Yes, My Lord," the aide bowed. "Is that all?" "It is. See to that at once." After the aide left to carry out his orders, the Leader looked at a star chart showing the sector on the course for Te'rea that the Colonials would likely follow. He glared at the chart, then at imagery showing the damage to Ne'Chak, then he slammed his fist on the table. Then he was muttering, "One day, there will be revenge for this atrocity. As the gods are my witness, you will pay." The Leader added, "I hope." Knowing how advanced the Colonials were compared to the Risik, the Leader knew that once Te'rea had a star fleet of its own, the chances of that happening would be slim at best. Still, he vowed, we will try, no matter what the cost. Then the aide returned, to announce Professor Tsu-lan and his associates. "Show them in," the Leader said. "Yes, My Lord." "And we are not to be disturbed," the Leader added menacingly. Visibly nervous, the aide bowed. "My Lord." Chapter 7: The next day, Colonial time, began as a normal one. Commander Adama, after his usual light breakfast, and a working one at that with Sire Xaviar and Siress Tinia, came onto the Bridge. The meeting had been, as usual, pleasant, and the main topic of discussion was the upcoming Welcome-Aboard Party for not just the rescued Earthers, but their new Risik passengers as well. All felt that it was fortunate indeed that those just recently rescued from Risik captivity had no ill feelings towards the new arrivals. Those thoughts, and the previous night, when Apollo and Sheba brought Boxey over for a family dinner, were on his mind as he logged in. Then the XO came over. "Good morning, Tigh." "Good Morning, Commander," Tigh replied. "I have the overnight Sitrep." He handed Adama a pad. "Nothing unusual, no scanner contacts detected, nor transmissions of any kind." "That's good. After tomorrow, we'll be clear of Risik pursuit, as far as we've been able to determine." "Yes, Commander," Tigh said. "And Captain Byrne has a theory as to why there's so little information about this sector in the databases we've acquired." "And that is?" Adama asked as Omega came up with a pad with the ship's overnight status. After scanning it, the Commander signed it with a stylus. "Thank you, Omega." "Commander," the Bridge Officer said, then he went back to his station. Tigh nodded. "He's basing it on experience back on Earth. Often, repressive regimes make information about neighboring countries classified information, or, at the very least, very negative. It's supposed to make any kind of defection unattractive." "Well, now, that's interesting," Adama said. He considered it for a centon. "Given what we know about the regime, individual defections are rare. And if the regime's propaganda depicts their neighbors in a very unflattering light, that makes potential mutineers think twice if they believe they can't find a safe haven nearby." "Yes, sir," Tigh said. "It's only a theory.." "But based on what we know of the Risik, it fits," Adama finished. "Excellent insight." The XO considered that for a few microns. "It does fit, Commander, and not just that. With the informers and the Security Officers on their ships, it's another layer of security." "More like a layer of fear," Adama said. "Rule by terror." "So it seems, Commander," Tigh nodded agreement. "And it keeps any potential troublemakers just that, potential. Not knowing where to go means they stay grumblers and that, the regime would tolerate. Just a little, anyway," Adama said. "Still, have Wilker check any remaining classified databases from Lemeshik's ship. Look for any hidden or nested files. That may be our only other source for information on this sector, apart from that skimpy chart our smuggler friend had." Tigh nodded. "Yes, Commander," he said, making a note on his pad. Athena came up next, with a pad and stylus. The overnight scanner report. After perusing it, and seeing nothing, Adama signed it with the stylus. "Thank you, Athena." "Father," she smiled, then went back to her station. Adama nodded, then went to the plot board. He checked their rear, then their course ahead. The point where the Colonial Fleet would pick up their course for Earth was highlighted. "Our patrols?" "Red Squadron has the watch today, Commander. The first patrol left a centar ago, and the next one leaves in....thirty centons." "Very well, Tigh." Adama then went to the Command Station and looked out the bridge viewport. "One more, Tigh." "Commander?" "I'm in agreement with Captain Byrne and Commander Allen. One more fight with the Risik before we clear them for good." He sighed, arms crossed. "I hope we're all wrong, though. There's only two questions." "How many ships," Tigh nodded. "And when." "Yes, Tigh. How many, and when," said Adama. "And how desperate they are, Commander," Tigh said, recalling the Cylon sucide attack that had nearly killed them all. "Always a variable, old friend," Adama replied. "The one unknown in combat. Is that all for now?" Tigh checked his pad. "Apart from the usual afternoon conference call, and the welcoming speech to the new cadet class at...1430, that's it for now, Commander." "Very well." Adama said. "Thank you, Colonel." "Commander," Tigh said. Adama then looked back out the viewport. Where are you? He said to himself. You're out there, somewhere. Two more days, and we're clear of you. I hope, he added. Aboard the freighter Piz Goria, the bridge crew had settled into the morning routine, and the Captain had taken over the watch. So far, things were going all right, unlike a sectan earlier with their sister ship, the Paz Goria, which had thought they had suffered a massive water leak, only to find out that a faulty sensor had been the cause of all the trouble. Both sister ships were equally old, and yet, as far as the Piz Goria's Chief Engineer felt, "old" meant "reliable." It had proven true, as Piz Goria had much fewer maintenance issues than her sister ship, the scanners were more effective-they being some of the most advanced that money could buy back in the Colonies (at least, those available to civilians), and the engines were in much better shape. The Captain was pleased, and yet....what could go wrong, often did. In Engineering, the Chief Engineer had also gone on watch. Proud of how well the ship ran, he was checking things himself. A "Hands On" type, he enjoyed keeping the ship in good repair, and back in the Colonies, he could've gotten a teaching position in any number of merchant training schools, but no. He preferred the real thing to some kind of college, and besides, he felt he didn't have the temperment to teach anyway. Being on the ship in a spaceport on Sagitaria when the attack came in meant that he and the rest of the crew were still alive, and they managed to pack the ship full of people and as much supplies as they could to near overflowing before lifting off. Now, most of those people called the ship home, but the excess had finally been moved over to the Caspia when that ship became available. Some of those who remained had proven adept mechanics, and helped with small repairs. He smiled at that, just as an alarm sounded, then a BANG came from one of the engines, lights went out, and the ship shuddered. Emergency lighting came on as the Chief raced to the control center, and shook his head. "Get me the Bridge!" "Commander, Message from the Piz Goria," Omega said to Adama on Galactica's bridge. "They've suffered a major engineering casualty, and need assistance with repairs. She's come to a full stop." Adama developed a scowl on his face. Just when they were almost clear of Risik Space, this had to happen. "Do they have the parts?" "They're still assessing that, Commander. Captain Celisus reports no serious casualties, though." "Very well, Omega. Notify Chief Twilly, and get him and a repair team with the needed parts over to that ship," Adama ordered. "Inform all ship masters that we'll be slowing the Fleet down to half of normal Fleet Speed. What are the nearest ships to the Piz Goria?" Omega consulted his screen. "That would be the Yarborough and the Hegal, Commander." "Very well. Omega, have those ships rig for towing." "Yes, Commander," Omega said. He got on the line with Twilly right after that. Adama then went to the Plot Board. He noted a Brown Dwarf that had shown up on their scanners only a few Centars earlier, and he immediately became suspicious. "Tigh, I don't want to leave a ship too far behind, with us not yet out of Risik Space. Now, who's on alert?" "Blue Squadron, Commander," Tigh replied, "And Squadron One." The Commander thought for a moment. "All right, Tigh. Launch the alert flight from each squadron. Have them check out that Brown Dwarf and its system. I want to make sure no one's lurking nearby. There aren't any gas clouds that could shield a ship from scans, and this is the only logical place." "You think they're there, watching us?" "I can't shake this feeling, Tigh. They're out there, looking for one chance to strike back. A crippled ship isn't the Galactica, but from their point of view, it's better than nothing. Get those fighters launched immediately." "Right away, Commander." "And have Constellation stand by the Piz Goria as a guard ship," Adama added. "A disabled ship, under repair and under tow? The Risik would happily go for her if they could." "I'll inform Captain Byrne immediately," said Tigh. "Any change to the Rules of Engagement?" "Captain Byrne is authorized to use whatever means are necessary to protect the Piz Goria and his ship, Tigh. If that means lethal force? So be it." "Yes, Commander." If necessary, the recon fighters can land on Constellation. And bring the Fleet to Condition Two." "Sir." Aboard Constellation, Captain Byrne had just come onto the bridge when he was notified of the incident aboard the Piz Goria, and that Constellation would be standing by as a Guard Ship. After acknowledging the order, he got down to business. "Helm, get us into a position where we're in an overwatch over those three ships." "Aye, sir," the helmsman replied. "Sensors: Full scan, three hundred and sixty degree arc in all three axes. Active and passive sensors, and stand by on the cloak." "Sir," the sensor officer said. "Very well. Mr. Malik?" Byrne turned to his Gunnery Officer. "Weapons status?" The Zorhloch had a grin on his face, as if he was anticipating combat. Which, in this case, he was, and gleefully. It had been a while since Ne'Chak, after all. "All weapons, both guns and torpedoes, are primed and ready. Fire-control system and targeting computer fully operational. Just give us a target." "If the Risik oblige, you'll have at least one, Mr. Malik," said Byrne. "Remember that they usually send out their small scouts ahead of the big ships." He turned to his Exec. "Mr. Dante, our two squadrons?" "Apart from a Katana fighter in deep maintenance-which is Flight Sergeant Kidron's, all fighters are ready," replied the XO. "Do you want to remain at Condition Two, Captain?" He knew what his Captain would probably want to do, but still, it had to be asked. "No, Mr. Dante. One better," Byrne replied calmly. "We'd better safe than sorry, Mr. Dante. Let's go to General Quarters, and set Condition One. Then get your astrum down to CIC." "Aye, sir." Dante hit the alarm, before making the call over the ship's PA. "General Quarters! General Quarters! All hands, man your battle stations! This is not a drill! Repeat: this is no drill!" The General Alarm sounded, and both crew and passengers raced for their stations. While the gunnery stations, fire-control, and damage-control parties were manned by the crew, the civilians assembled in first-aid or firefighting parties. At the same time, pilots manned their Vipers, and the Boarding/Landing Party assembled in the Docking Bay. Inside of four centons, all was in readiness. "All stations report manned and ready, Captain," Mr. Agron, the Second Officer, reported to Byrne. "Condition One set throughout the ship." "Very well, Mr. Agron," Byrne nodded. "Launch four fighters from Katana for a Combat Air Patrol, put a second flight on cockpit alert, and have the rest in their ready rooms." "Yes, sir." "And notify me the moment Kidron's fighter is reported combat-ready." "Sir." As the fighters launched and took up their CAP station, Byrne was looking at the repeater on his console, which showed the scanner readout. Then he took a long look out the bridge viewport. "Come on, you bastards. If you want one last crack at us, now's the time," he muttered to himself, before adding as an afterthought, "And more of you get sent to hell." Blue Squadron's alert flight shot down their launch tubes, while Squadron One's alert flight launched from the Base Ship. The two flights formed up, and flew a heading for the Brown Dwarf. "Alert fighters launched, Commander," Tigh reported to Adama. "Very well," Adama said as he checked the Plot Board, then he went to Athena's station, where the scanner readout showed the fighters on their course. "Tigh, have Blue Squadron's remaining pilots on cockpit alert, and notify Baltar. The same for Squadron One." "Commander." In his Viper, Apollo watched his own scanner readout as the Brown Dwarf and its system of moons and dwarf planets appeared. To his surprise, one of them looked like a minature gas giant, or a gas midget, as some astronomers had called such worlds, complete with rings and its own moons. "Where are you hiding?" He said to himself before calling his wingmate, "Brie, anything?" "Nothing on my scanner," the blonde ensign replied. "Wait, there's something orbiting the outermost moon." "Orion?" The Cylon Strike Leader replied, "I have it as well, Captain. It appears to be a ship, but we are too far away to scan for identification." "Let's close in," Apollo said. "That's what we're here for." The four-ship flight closed in on the contact, and they were able to scan the target. It was Brie who made the ID. "Apollo! Target is a Risik Scout Ship. Not from their Fleet, but a Scout Service ship." "Confirmed," Mettius added. "His scanners are fully active." "He hasn't spotted us yet," Apollo said as he checked the scanner. A wedge-shaped ship, about a hundred metrons long, with a single gun turret topside. "Scanning for life forms." "I am picking up three," Orion said. "All are Risik." "Same here," Brie called. "Got it," said Apollo. "Relaying this to Galactica." "Commander?" Rigel called on Galactica's Bridge. "Blue Leader's sending a data stream. They've picked up a Risik Scout." "Transfer that to my console, please," Adama said to Omega. "Transferring, Commander." Adama and Tigh studied the readout. "Scout Service ship," Tigh noted. "Not from their Fleet." "Yes, but he may have Star Force ships close by," Adama nodded. "With all the ships from the Star Force we've destroyed, they may have had to divert ships from other tasks." He turned to Tigh. "Inform Baltar, and bring all remaining fighters to launch ready." "Commander." Aboard Constellation, the Sensor Officer focused her scanners on a planetoid that was separate from the Brown Dwarf system. Then she picked up the contacts. "Captain?" She called to Byrne. "Four contacts to starboard. X+12,000, Y-8,000." "ID?" Byrne asked. "Scanning.....Sir, I'm reading one Patrol Cruiser, one Exploratory Cruiser, and two long-range Star Force scouts." "I knew it," Byrne slammed a fist into an open palm. "Do they have us?" "Not yet, sir. They are closing, though." "Very well, Sensors. Keep scanning, and let me know when they pick us up. Call out any changes in course or speed. And stand by on ECM and the cloak." "Sir." Byrne then turned to the Communications Officer. "Miss Alyssia? Contact the other three ships, and tell them we may have company coming. Then contact the Galactica. Tell them what we've picked up." "Aye, sir," Alyssia replied. Byrne's message arrived just as Athena spotted the contacts on her scanner. "Commander, ships on scan." "Can you confirm Constellation's ID?" Adama asked. "Affirmative, Commander," she replied, calling up the Warbook. "One Patrol Cruiser, one Exploratory Cruiser, and two long-range scouts." Adama nodded as he saw the contacts on his own display. "Very well. They just won't let go," he said. "Tigh, notify Baltar. Launch the rest of the alert force. Have them rendezvous with Apollo and Orion's patrol. Then proceed to Constellation's position." "Commander," Tigh replied. He then relayed the order. As Vipers shot down their launch tubes, and Raiders flew out of the Base Ship's bays, the XO reported, "Fighters launched, Commander." Adama nodded, then said, "Tigh, sound Battle Stations, and bring the Fleet to Condition One." "Right away, Commander." Then the klaxon sounded as the Bridge went to red lighting. "All Stations manned and ready, Commander," Omega reported. "Very well," Adama said. He checked the plot, and noted that the Risik ships were closing on Constellation, the Piz Goria and her two standbys. "Have the Risik picked up any of our ships on scan?" "Not yet, Commander." "Athena? Give me their scan emissions, and when they'll pick up our ships," said Adama. "Yes, Commander." She typed in the request, and it appeared almost immediately. "Passing to your station." Adama and Tigh saw the readout on a monitor. "They won't pick up the ships for another fifteen centons at their current speed," Tigh said. "That, and the limit on their range and resolution, gives us some options." "Yes, it does," Adama nodded. He thought for a moment, then came to his decision. "Omega, get me Baltar and Commander Allen, please." "Right away, Commander." In microns, the connections were made. "I have them on the Comline, Commander." "Adama?" Baltar asked. "Commander?" Allen said. "Gentlemen, it looks like both you, Commander Allen, and Captain Byrne, were right. We've got one more fight with the Risik brewing. Captain Byrne's protecting the Piz Goria and her two standbys, and the Risik should be detecting them in just about fifteen centons. Let's surprise them, shall we?" Baltar asked, "What do you have in mind, Adama?" "We'll launch our remaining squadrons to protect the Fleet. Commander Allen? You'll be in command again during our absence. It'll be up to Adelaide and the Century." "They'll get a hot reception, Commander," Allen replied. "If they show up, that is." "Very good, Commander. Baltar? Let's take the big ships through that Brown Dwarf system. We then come in behind the Risik and squeeze them between Constellation and us. Either they break off when they spot us...." "Or stand and be destroyed," Baltar finished, a hint of the sly, old Baltar coming in his voice. "We'll catch them by surprise, then. Just as Cain did to me at Gamoray. I never thought I'd say this, but that was a nice piece of work on his part." Adama nodded politely, recalling that battle, where Cain and the Pegasus, just by appearing unexpectedly, had forced Baltar's strike force to retreat. Two Base Ships had paid the price that day. "It was. And now we can do the same to the Risik." "A very sneaky plan, Adama," said Baltar. He spoke to someone off camera, then nodded. "We're ready on this end." "Yes, let's do just that, shall we?" Adama nodded again, then turned to Tigh. "Colonel, launch all remaining squadrons. Captain Boomer will be in command of the fighters. Baltar, please do the same with Squadrons Two, Three, and Four." On the screen, Baltar nodded, then turned to Moray. "Moray, launch all remaining fighters." "By your command," Moray said. He relayed the order, and the three remaining squadrons flew out of the launch bays. As that happened, Vipers shot down their launch tubes, and the two groups formed up to protect the Colonal Fleet. "All squadrons launched and in position, Commander," Tigh reported. "Very well, Colonel," said Adama. "Good luck, Commander Allen, and we'll be back shortly." "We'll be here, Commander," Allen said. "And as before, Commander, the Fleet's on loan," Adama replied. "I want the Fleet in the same condition as I left it." "Yes, sir." "All right, then. Baltar, shall we?" Baltar nodded on the monitor. "Ready when you are, Adama." "Then let's execute. Helm, course to the Brown Dwarf?" The Helm officer replied, "Course is Epsilon Mark 12, sir. Laid in and ready." "Execute." The Battlestar and Base Ship turned away from the Colonial Fleet, and headed on their new course. "Godspeed, Commander," said Allen, then he got down to business. "On our new course, Commander," Omega reported. "Adama?" Baltar said. "May I suggest that we go to passive sensors only? It'll be more of a surprise for the Risik." "Since they'll also have Blue Squadron and Squadron One as well, they'll think the only reinforcements coming are the fighters," Adama said. "Excellent suggestion, Baltar. Colonel, make it so." "Commander," Tigh replied. "And Baltar?" Adama said. "Don't wait for my order. When the Galactica goes to active sensors and opens fire? Do the same." "Understood, Adama. We'll be ready," Baltar said. "Let's hope this is it, as far as the Risik are concerned. Frankly, I'm sick and tired of them." Adama nodded, for he felt the same way, but didn't show it. "One can hope, Baltar. One can hope." On the Risik Patrol Cruiser Nemesis, her captain was pleased at what his single remote drone had picked up. Three ships from this refugee fleet, and one of them disabled, by the analysis of her power signature. As far as he was concerned, though it wasn't the "Battlestar" or the "Base Ship" (either one of which could blow his four ships out of the sky without a second thought), destroying three of these "Colonials" would be very satisfying, not to mention that he-and his crews-would return home to accolades richly deserved, and the stain on the honor of the Risik State and the Star Force would be partially expunged. What kind of rewards would be coming his way, he wondered? Promotion, certainly. Decorations for himself and his crews were a given, he thought, as was the chance of some kind of bounty reward. The prize money for destroying these three ships could be substantial, he knew. Though he didn't have the personnel to mount a boarding party, if a ship surrendered, he'd take a few prisoners for interrogation, and dispose of the rest....and the reward for bringing back live prisoners would be worth the effort. His thoughts were interrupted by his scanner officer. "Commander, there's another ship." "What?" "The drone is picking up a capital ship, and it matches one of the three reported from Ne' Chak," the man replied. The Captain looked at the display on his station's monitor, and it showed a ship far larger than anything in the Star Force. It looked very similar to the ship the scouts from Ne'Chak had reported, but... "Confirm that identification." "Confirmed," the scanner officer reported. "The energy signature is a match, as are the weapons signatures." The Executive Officer came over. "Captain, I must remind you: that ship alone outguns both of our ships. Ourselves and the Tracker." He paused, then continued. "As your First Officer, I must as well remind you of our orders. Observe and report only." "I'm aware of those orders," growled the Captain. "They didn't anticipate a situation as this, however." "If that ship is close," the Exec said, pointing at the image of Constellation, the other two are almost certainly nearby. They could be lurking outside our sensor range, waiting. If we attack, they will come in, and the first sign of their presence is their weapons fire tearing our ships apart." The Captain turned to face his Exec. "Are you suggesting cowardice?" "No," the Exec replied, noting his Commander's tone of voice-very cold, he knew. As well as the penalty for defying his Captain. "I am only reminding you of our orders. No combat unless absolutely necessary." "Your reminder is noted for the record, Sub-Commander," the Captain growled, emphasizing the word 'sub'. "And overruled." He turned to the Helm. "Helm, two-thirds speed." "Two-thirds, Commander," the Helm replied. Those on the Bridge felt the increased thrust in the engines as the ship increased speed. "Sound Action Stations, and full power to weapons. All missiles and torpedoes ready. Notify the Tracker: Launch their scout ships, and ours as well. Have them, S-65 and S-97 close in with the Te'reans." "Yes, sir," the Exec replied, none too happily. "Weapons charged and ready," the Weapons Officer reported. "Gun crews are at their stations. Nuclear torpedoes are in the tubes." "They've increased speed," Constellation's sensor officer announced. "And I'm picking up a transmission from an object forty degrees to starboard, Y-plus 5,000." She paused, then added. "It's fading, sir. In and out." Curious, Byrne went over to the Sensor Officer's station. "Let's see." "Sir." She focused onto the new target. "It's there, then it isn't. And there it is again." She looked at Byrne. "I've never seen anything like this." After looking at the scanner, Byrne recognized it. He'd seen Stealth aircraft on radar before, back in his fighter pilot days. And he knew they were very hard to pick up. Why wouldn't the Risik have done the same? "That's because it's stealthed. Kind of like our Stealth Aircraft back home." Hearing that, Mr. Agron was surprised. "The Cylons haven't used this kind of technology in over two hundred yahrens. We've never had reason to consider it." "There is now, and not just the Risik," Byrne reminded his Second Officer. "Others may use it as well." He got onto his headset. "Mr. Dante? Vector the CAP onto that target and have them kill it." "Aye, sir," the XO replied from CIC. He relayed the order, then said, "Fighters vectored. Time to contact, three centons." "Very well. Mr. Agron? Launch the alert flight, and have both Katana and Broadsword on cockpit alert." The Second Officer nodded. "Sir." The order was relayed, and four Vipers launched right after, while pilots manned their Vipers. "Squadrons on cockpit alert, Captain." Agron reported. "Very well," Byrne nodded, then he turned to his Gunnery Officer. "Mr. Malik? As soon as that Patrol Cruiser's in range, we'll warn him. For the first-and last-time. If he disregards it?" "Weapons-free?" the Zohrloch asked eagerly. He was waiting in anticipation of combat. Byrne nodded. "Weapons-free it is. Then kill them." "My pleasure, Captain," Malik said. "But why warn him?" Byrne didn't like it either, but.... "We have to say we tried to avoid a fight," he said. "If he ignores the warning?" "His problem," Malik grinned. "Briefly," Byrne said. "It will be a pleasure," the Zohrloch grinned, programming his initial firing solution into the computer. He was going to enjoy this. Katana Squadron's leader led the CAP against the mystery target. When the pilots engaged their attack computers, they found the target intermittently showing, even when they closed to visual range. "Looks like we'll have to do this the old-fashioned way," he said over the com. "Unless you get a lock, shoot by eye." "Copy, Skipper," his wingmate replied. Then all four Vipers sprayed the drone with fire. Red beams flew all around the drone, before two connected, turning the Risik recon drone into a fireball. "Constellation, Katana Leader," the CO called. "Target destroyed." "Confirmed, Katana Leader," Dante replied over the com. "Return to CAP Station. Alert flight has launched." "Copy that," Katana Leader said, then the four Vipers turned to resume their station. "Commander," The Risik First Officer said. "We have lost contact with the drone. All telemetry has stopped." "Reacquire," the Commander growled at the Sensor Officer, enjoying watching his underling work the controls. "Unable to reacquire," the Sensor Officer replied. "A malfunction?" "No, Commander. Telemetry just....stopped." "On screen," the Commander ordered. The main viewscreen then showed the four Vipers approaching the drone, then firing. The last image was of a laser bolt coming towards the camera, before the screen turned to static. "Are they on our own scanners?" "Negative, Commander. They are too far away," the sensor officer said. The Commander was in a rage, and he slammed his fist into his command chair. "Order the scouts to close in to optimal scan range and feed us their data," he growled. "Commander-" the First Officer started to say, before he was cut off. The Commander stared angrily at the man. "NOW." The First Officer bowed, and relayed the order. The Commander wanted a fight, no matter what. And there wasn't much he could do about it, for the other officers were just as eager, or so it seemed. "Scouts have acknowledged, Commander. They have increased speed, and are closing." "Very well. Helm, maintain course and speed." "Scouts have increased speed, Captain," Sensors called on Constellation's bridge. Byrne nodded, then looked at his monitor. He had a range of options, and considered them, before he came to a decsion. "Very well. Mr. Agron? Launch the rest of Katana, and have them form a screen around our charges. If the Risik want those ships, they'll have to get through the Vipers first." "Aye, sir." He passed the order, and the rest of Katana shot into space. "And Broadsword?" Byrne thought for a micron or two, then nodded again, this time, firmly. "Have them launch and engage the scouts. Draw them off, and keep them occupied. If possible, though, kill them." "Sir." The order was passed, and Broadsword's Vipers launched. They formed up, and headed for their targets. Further back, Apollo and Orion's patrol was monitoring the Scout they had picked up. "He's got a full sensor scan going," Apollo noted. "And most of it's directed at the world he's orbiting. The scout was orbiting a seemingly useless rock ball with no atmosphere, and yet, the Risik were interested in it for some reason. "A mineral scan, Apollo?" Brie asked. "Captain, that would be logical, given their need for raw materials," said Orion. "After what we did to them? It would," Apollo agreed. Then he checked his scanner. "Vipers and Raiders coming." It looked like a full squadron of each. "Apollo," Dietra called. "Commander Adama sent us, and the rest of Squadron One. We're to meet up with you guys, then we're to go to Constellation's position and render all assistance." "All right," Apollo replied. "Wait a centon. Brie? You and Mettius break off and disable that scout. Either Galactica or Constellation can send a boarding party when we're through." "What for, Apollo?" Brie asked as she and her Cylon partner broke off. "He's got scanner data we need, and we can't pass it up." "On the way," Brie replied as she and her partner formed up. Both went after the scout, and the Risik scouts were totally surprised at being attacked. Unknown to anyone in a Viper or Raider, the Cylon pass killed the lone gunner when Mettius' Raider fired into the single gun turret, and then the engines, while Brie's shots, aimed at the cockpit, punched through to kill both the Command Pilot and the Second Pilot. When the two fighters turned to rejoin their squadrons, the scout was adrift, spinning slowly as she vented atmosphere and other fluids. Apollo then closed in and scanned the wreck, making sure the damage wouldn't cause her core to overload and blow. Satisfied, he turned his Viper on a new course. "All right, let's go," Apollo said, then the two squadrons went on their new heading. "Captain, scouts are closing," the Sensor Officer called on Constellation's bridge. "And the two cruisers have launched their own scouts." "The disc-shaped ones?" Byrne asked. "Yes, sir." "Very well." Byrne took a look at the display on his own console, and considered his options. Then he put on a headset. "Miss Alyssia? Get me Broadsword Leader." "Aye, sir," the Com Officer replied. "You're on, Captain." Here we go, Byrne thought. "Broadsword Leader, this is Constellation Actual." "Reading you, Constellation," Broadsword Lead replied. "You've got more company coming. Four disc-shaped scouts-like the ones who've been coming to Earth. Draw them off if you can, but if you can't?" Byrne paused for a moment, then added, "Burn them." Broadsword Lead gulped in his cockpit. They hadn't had anything like this since the Otaglim, and hadn't launched during the Ne'Chak Raid. "Copy, Constellation. Draw off if possible, Kill if necessary." "Verified," Bryne said. "Decoy if you can. Otherwise, kill." "Affirmative, Constellation. We're on our way," Broadsword Lead repeated the order. "That's it," said Byrne. "Clear to arm, clear to fire. Good luck and good shooting. Constellation Actual, out." In his cockpit, Broadsword Lead saw the scouts come into scanner range. Then he called his squadron as the data appeared on his screen. "Broadsword, let's go get 'em." A dozen Vipers hit turbos, and closed with the scouts. "Flight leaders pick your targets and engage." The Vipers broke into their flights, and as the lead disc came into range, the Lead got lock. His finger touched the FIRE button..... The crew of the lead scout had picked up the Vipers, but too late. The Command Pilot was a veteran, and normally, he was an instructor at the Star Force Recon School, but when the Te'reans had shown themselves, he had asked for a combat assignment, one last time. He remembered going to Te'rea back in his cadet days, and the times when their puny jet interceptors had tried to intercept his craft. Either they had outrun the Te'reans, or had played with them, until the Te'rean fighters had run low on fuel and had to break off, but on a few occasions, they had been told to destroy an interceptor, and had done so. Now, though, the Te'rans were a much more capable and advanced opponent, or so the briefings had said. He had told his wife that he wouldn't be gone long, then he'd be back in the classroom, his last assignment before retirement. And if he didn't come back? Well, the pension due her from his long service would have to do. It would be as the Gods so willed. Now, though...more pressing business was at hand, as the Te'ran fighters closed in and began shooting. "Track them and fire!" He told his pilot. The Pilot tried, but shot wide of the mark. "They're too fast!" He yelled as the ship shuddered from several hits. The armor held up, much to the relief of the crew. "I'll fly, just shoot!" The scout turned, to try and give the pilot an easier shot.... "Captain, scans show Broadsword is engaged," the sensor officer reported. "One of the discs is crippled, the rest are trying to engage the Vipers." "Very well," Byrne replied. "The Fleet Scouts?" "Still closing." "Very well." Byrne then turned to his gunnery officer. "Mr. Malik? Start tracking those Fleet Scouts. When they come into range, don't bother with warning shots. Just introduce them to their Gods." The Zohrloch had a grin on his face. Again, it was time that these dishonorable slugs be taught a lesson. Even if they didn't live to regret it. "My pleasure, Captain." He then began with the lead scout. Though out of weapons range, it wouldn't be too long. "Tracking the lead scout." "Take him once he's in range." Broadsword Lead had made one pass on the lead disc, then turned for another run. "These are tough frakers," he muttered. He saw his Exec's flight make a pass on another disc, and that one did blow-and spectacularly. Must've been a lucky shot.... His wingmate agreed. "How much can they take?" He asked as they came in again and fired. "We're hit!" the Pilot shouted as the scout shuddered. "Weapons offline." "Let's get back to the Tracker," the Command Pilot said. "We're out of this fight." Before he could turn, two more fighters came in, head-on, and firing. The red bolts appeared as if they were coming at their faces, then the bridge and flight deck exploded around them. In the last tenarri, he wondered how his wife-a big spender-would handle the pension checks she would be getting, then the last thing he felt was heat.... "Now we got him!" Broadsword Lead shouted as the disc exploded. "Two discs destroyed, Captain," the sensor officer announced. "Two more still engaged. One Fleet Scout has turned to assist." "The leader?" Byrne wanted to know, trying to hide his pleasure at how Broadsword was doing. "Still closing. At present speed, one centon until weapons range." Nodding, Byrne turned to Mr. Malik. "Your solution, Mr. Malik?" "Solution set and ready. Target will be in range in fifty microns," the gunnery officer reported. "Batteries tracking." "Very well." Byrne watched on his display as the Risik scout drew just a little bit closer. Then the blip blinked. "Is he?" "Confirmed. Target is in range," Mr. Malik reported. "Very well, Mr. Malik." Byrne took a deep breath, then nodded. "Batteries released. Kill him." Malik grinned as he replied, "Yes, sir!" Then he informed his gunners. "Commence firing." Just like it had been at Ne'Chak, the gunners took their target under fire, as Malik calmly and cooly directed their shooting. Aboard the scout, the four Risik crewmen had barely gotten in sight of Constellation, and were wondering what in the Name of the Gods they were to do, when the big ship-four times as large as anything currently in the Star Force-opened fire. Though out of their own range, the gunner did get a couple of shots off before the crew-and their ship-became engulfed in a fireball. Constellation's bridge crew watched as the scout exploded. "That's a kill," Mr. Agron observed. "That it is, Mr. Agron," Byrne said. "Cease fire. Good shooting, Mr. Malik." Malik relayed the order, then nodded. "Thank you, Captain." Praise from his Captain was welcome indeed. "Now tracking the lead cruiser." "Very well," Byrne said. He checked his display. One more of the discs had been destroyed, one was running back to the cruisers, and the Vipers were swarming the second Fleet Scout. "All right, Mr. Agron and Mr. Malik? You're the commander on that Patrol Cruiser. What do you do now?" Agron thought for a few microns. "After seeing that relayed from my scouts? Anything to avoid breaking rocks in a camp if I break off. I'll keep closing in and hope for the best." "Mr. Malik?" "With their sense of superiority over everyone else?" Malik asked. "He won't run from what he considers 'infidels and heretics'. He'll keep coming. His ingrained arrogance practically demands it." "Concur," Byrne said. "But watch that Exploratory Cruiser. If any of them decide to run, he'll be the one doing so." "Where would he run to, Captain?" Alyssia asked. "Hopefully, right into the waiting arms of Galactica and the Base Ship." The com officer grinned. "Oh, he'll just love that. Getting blown to pieces by a bigger ship, and not have the shame of being killed by fighters." Byrne had to suppress a laugh, but he smiled. "Don't let the fighter pilots hear you say that, Miss Alyssia. They are sensitive about such things, you know." "Oh, yes, sir," Alyssia grinned as she returned to her board. Chapter 8: On the Nemesis, the Risik Commander was in a rage. One of his two scouts had returned with significant battle damage, and news that the other had been destroyed. The scout's telemetry was now on display on the Bridge's main screen, and what he saw made him displeased, to say the least. Two of Tracker's scouts had also been destroyed, and a fireball marked the end of S-65 at the hands of the capital ship. S-97 was last seen fighting off several Te'rean fighters, and that was that. That did not happen to the ships of the Chosen Race! It just did not! "Full speed. Close in to engage," the Commander ordered. Hearing that, the First Officer was appalled. He started to protest, but saw the Security Officer staring at him. "You can file a report on me when we get back. Assuming we're still alive, that is," he muttered. The Commander stared at his XO. Of course I know. "Save it until then," he ordered the both of them. "Full speed," the Helm replied. "And stand by on weapons," the Commander added. "Weapons at full power and torpedoes in the tubes," the weapons officer said. "Screens to maximium." Then the Sensor Officer started to speak, his voice shaky. "Commander...." "What?" The Commander's voice barely concealed his rage. The Chosen Race could not, and would not, lose to these Te'reans. Not today! "Two groups of fighters. Closing in, and they are Te'rean." "On screen." The sensor officer nodded, and the screen showed two groups of fighters, the same that had been seen at Ne'Chak. "Both are closing fast." "Captain," Constellation's Sensor Officer called. "Two squadrons of fighters coming in. One each Vipers and Raiders." "Commander Adama decided we might need some help," Mr. Agron said. "Not that we need it right now," Byrne said, seeing not only the Vipers and Raiders, but the death of the second Risik Fleet Scout on his monitor. "But I'm glad they're here." "Blue Leader to Constellation," Apollo's voice came over the com line. "I've got Orion and Squadron One with me, and Commander Adama thought you could use some backup." "Copy," Byrne said into his headset. He thought for a moment as he considered some possible options. "Apollo, take your squadron onto their right flank. Orion, there's a planetoid on their left. Both of you, make sure they don't try and run in either direction." "Affirmative, Constellation," Apollo replied. "By your command," Orion added, then both squadrons broke to assume their flanking mission. Mr. Agron came over. "Ever think you'd be giving orders to a Cylon, sir?" Byrne nodded, "Times change, Mr. Agron, and we have to change with them." He then turned to his Com Officer. "Miss Alyssia? Get me Chief Twilly on Piz Goria." "Aye, sir," Alyssia said. She worked her controls, then called, "You're on, sir." "Chief? What's the situation over there?" Byrne said into his headset. "Captain, we're still busy here," Twilly replied. "But we did find the problem: a bad power relay. It just wore out. If it had blown, that's a far more serious problem." "How serious?" "As in needing a new ship kind of serious," Twilly said. "At a minimum, the overload would've shunted down the line, overloading each relay as it went. In a few microns, the whole engineering section, and a few nearby compartments, would've been blasted to Hades." "And at most, the ship turns into a fireball," Byrne finished. "How long on the new relay, Chief?" "A centar at least, Captain. Probably two." Byrne checked his monitor. The two cruisers were still closing. "Then don't waste any more time talking to me, Chief. Get it done." "Yes, sir." "And Chief?" "Captain?" "Expedite," Byrne told him. "And I do mean expedite! Constellation out." "Cruisers are closing," Sensors announced. "Four centons, present speed." "Mr. Malik?" Byrne asked. "Your fire-control?" "Tracking the Patrol Cruiser, Captain," Malik replied. "Solution plotted and ready." "Very well," Byrne said. "Mr. Malik, call out once he's in range. Miss Alyssia? When he does, open a channel. I'll give that ship his first-and final-warning." "And if he disregards it?" Alyssia asked. "That's his problem." Mr. Agron nodded, then saw the display on the main Bridge screen. "And more of them get sent to Hades," he commented. "Something like that," Byrne agreed. Meanwhile, the Galactica and the Base Ship continued on their course to Constellation's position. "Commander? Athena called from her station. "We have a scanner target. It's a Risik Scout Service ship, but.." "But what?" Adama asked. "It's damaged, and the hull has been vented. No life signs." Tigh checked the board. "We're following the same course our fighters took, Commander." "So Apollo and Orion found this ship, and took action. Very well, Tigh." Adama said. "Athena, mark that ship's location. We'll come back this way, and send a boarding party aboard. I want that ship's flight and scanner logs. Then we'll bring her back for the Recycling Ship." "Yes, Commander," Athena replied. "Target location marked." "Thank you, Athena," Adama said. "Omega, time to contact with Constellation?" "Estimated time to contact....five centons, Commander," replied the Bridge Officer. Adama nodded, then checked the scanner display. They were still on passive sensors, and so far, no ships other than the new derelict were on the screens. That would change soon, though. "Very well, Omega. Get me Baltar, please." "Right away, Commander," Omega said. He worked his controls, and the connection was quickly made, and Baltar's image appeared on a monitor. "Baltar's on the line, sir." "Adama?" Baltar asked. "Baltar, we may be facing multiple targets, depending on how Constellation and our fighters are doing. If that's the case, then engage targets at your discretion when the Galactica does." "Understood, Adama. And if there's only one?" "Then we end this. Quickly and decisively," Adama said. "When the Galactica opens fire, don't wait. And do the same when we go to active sensors." "Understood," said Baltar. "What about that derelict we just passed?" "We'll return and scoop him up. I want his flight and scanner logs, as well as any other information that ship's computer might have. Then the Recycling Ship takes over." "I see.." Baltar turned to talk to someone offscreen, then he came back. "Adama, I'm reading three centons to contact." Adama turned to Omega, who nodded. "Very well. Let's close communications, and get on with it." "And when this is over, we leave these....people behind for good." "That we will." The Risik Commander was still in a rage as the Nemesis closed in. "We'll teach these Ter'eans a lesson," he growled, voice rising to a shout. "They will not challenge the Chosen Race and get away with it." "Comnander-" the First Officer started to say. This wasn't a fight they could win, and he knew it. "Enough!" The Commander shouted. "If you continue to defy my orders, I'll have you confined to the Brig!" And then shot, he silently added. "Picking up several fighters," the scan officer called. "All Te'rean. They are checking some debris." "I'm picking up S-97's disaster buoy signal," the com officer added. "It just went silent!" "Confirmed. One of the fighters has just destroyed the buoy. And the capital ship is just coming into scan range." "Target him, and stand by to fire," the Commander told the weapons officer. "Weapons ready, but he's still out of range," the man replied. "Close in. Signal the Tracker to do the same." "They're closing, Captain. "One centon until they're in effective range." Mr. Malik reported. "Stand by on guns," Byrne said. "Miss Alyssia? Get that channel ready." "Standing by, sir, and the Languatron is ready." Byrne thought about what he was going to say, before the Sensor Officer made a call. "Yes?" "Captain, reinforcements coming behind the two cruisers." "For them?" Byrne asked. More Risik ships were the last thing he needed now, for even if he disposed of the two cruisers, a pack attack was another matter. "No sir," Sensors grinned. "For us. Galactica and the Base Ship are coming up on the Risik's rear flank." Mr. Agron grinned. "Are they going to be surprised," he said. "They will be," Byrne nodded. "Not for long." Alyssia said, "Doesn't seem fair, though." "Miss Alyssia, I don't know if they taught you this in your Officer Training, but we have a saying in the U.S. Military, and it kind of goes like this: 'Fair' means I bring my people home alive. Frak the others.'" The Com Officer thought for a few microns, then nodded. "Sounds good to me." "Cruisers in range," Malik announced. "Stand by, Mr. Malik," Byrne said, then he nodded at Alyssia. "Now." She worked her controls, then said, "You're on, Captain." Taking a deep breath, Byrne called to the Risik ships. "Attention Risk warships. This is the Colonial warship Constellation. Identify yourselves, turn away, stand down, and state your intentions. If you continue to close, you will be subject to lethal defensive measures. This is the only warning you will receive." Both Galactica and the Base Ship picked up the message. "What's that all about?" Ayesha asked in the Base Ship's Command Center. "Captain Byrne has to show for the record we're not provoking a fight," Baltar replied. "They were given the chance to pull back." "It is logical, My Lady," Moray added. "Even if they disregard such a warning." Ayesha nodded. "And the chances they'll listen?" Starbuck, who was watching the tactical screen, shook his head. "Slim and none." "I see Captain Byrne's giving them their one chance," Tigh said on Galactica's Bridge. Adama nodded. "Yes, and I doubt very much they'll do what he says. Let's hope this is the end of it." For a generation or so, Adama silently added. On Nemesis' bridge, the Risik Commander and First Officer saw Byrne's message on the main screen. "Do we respond?" The First Officer asked. "Do it," the Commander told the Com Officer. "Ready, Commander," the Com Officer replied. "No response, sir," Alyssia reported. "Mr. Malik?" Byrne said. "Fi-" "Sir! I'm getting a message!" "Belay that, Mr. Malik," Byrne said. Then he nodded at Alyssia, who put the message on the main viewscreen, and a Risik Officer-a high-ranking one by the medals on his chest, appeared. "Attention Te'rean Vessels, this is the Risik Star Force Cruiser Nemesis. You will surrender your ships at once. You will be boarded, and taken to our Capital, where you will face the consequences for your crimes committed against the Risik State and People at Ne'Chak." The Risik paused, then continued. "Failure to do so will result in your immediate destruction." "Is he serious?" Alyssia asked. On the Base Ship, Baltar looked at Starbuck. "What in Sagan's sake is he smoking or taking?" "I don't know," Starbuck replied. "But whatever it is, he's on it." Ayesha shook her head. "Is he living in a fantasy world?" "Looks that way," Starbuck agreed. "He seems arrogant enough," Mr. Agron observed. "They all like that?" "The high-ranking ones? Yes," Mr. Malik noted, recalling what he'd been told prior to the Ne'Chak Raid. Byrne nodded. "That seems to be the case," he said. "Risik Captain, I'm not Colonial, but I command one of their ships." "And you are?" The Risik Captain demanded. "I'm Captain Kevin Byrne, United States Navy. Planet Earth, and I only have one other thing to say to you." The impudence of this....Te'rean! "And that is?" The Commander snarled. "Go to Hell," Byrne said calmly. He then gave the "cut" signal to Alyssia, who disconnected the channel. Then he turned to his gunnery officer. "Now, Mr. Malik. Let 'em have it." "Yes, sir!" Malik grinned, then he spoke into his headset. "Commence Firing." Constellation's gunners then tore into both Risik cruisers. "Return fire!" The Risik Commander shouted as laser fire from Constellation tore not only into his ship, but the Tracker as well. "We're still out of range!" Replied the Weapons Officer. "Missiles are just in range," he added as the ship shuddered from multiple hits. "Then fire!" "Firing!" Two missiles, each with a nuclear warhead, shot out of the Nemesis' forward tubes, before laser fire tore into the missile bay, wrecking most of the remaining tubes. "Two missiles inbound," Constellation's sensor officer reported. "They have us?" Byrne asked. "Seekers are active, but they haven't gotten us just yet." "Full ECM, now," Byrne said. "Just hope they don't have a home-on-jam guidance system." "Sir?" Mr. Agron asked. "Home-on-jam?" "Some of our radar-guided air-to-air missiles and anti-ship missiles back home have that capability," replied Byrne. "Pray these guys don't." Such worries turned out to be unfounded, for the two Risik missiles, hit by the blast of ECM from Constellation's Electronic Warfare suite, flew well wide of their target, then went off in end-of-run detonations. Several screens flared briefly, turning to snow, and a circuit briefly went offline. "Two detonations, Captain," Sensors called as she worked to reset the affected systems. "Both in the fifteen-kiloton range. The EMP briefly affected us, but our screens took the most of it." "Very well," Byrne said. He turned to his gunnery officer. "Mr. Malik? Concentrate on that Patrol Cruiser's missile battery. Take out any remaining tubes." "Yes, sir,!" Malik replied, then he relayed the order to his gunners. Laser fire tore apart the Risik ship's bow, but as she slowed down, the Exploratory Cruiser came in, interposing herself between Constellation, taking the big ship's fire, as the Patrol Cruiser dropped back, severely damaged. "What's he doing?" Mr. Agron asked as Constellation's fire tore into the Exploratory Cruiser, ripping her bow apart, before the gunners walked their fire across the length of the ship. Byrne recognized it at once. "He's sacrificing himself. Like a convoy escort under submarine attack back home: he's putting himself between us and a ship he's charged to protect." Hearing that, Alyssia observed, "He's got some pogees." "Not for long." A centon later, several shots penetrated to the Exploratory Cruiser's missile magazine. The resulting explosion tore the bow apart, before secondary explosions marched aft. One of those soon reached the ship's engineering section, and that detonation tore the ship apart in a blossom of orange-red fire. "Get us out of here!" The Risik Commander on Nemesis shouted. "Use the interference from the explosions to shield us from their sensors!" "Coming about," the Helm replied. "Damage report!" "Bow missile tubes out of action," the weapons officer replied. "All bow turrets offline, and two dorsal turrets also offline." The First Officer came over. "Commander?" The Commander heard his First Officer's voice, almost condescending. He was trying to say "I told you", without actually saying it. Was it like this for the traitor Lemeshik, when he was outgunned by the Te'reans? "How? How can these....heretics, infidels, do this?" "They can and they have, Commander," replied the First Officer, his voice quite calm. "I suggest we try and make our way out of here." "Yes...." the Commander said. He had finally realized that he had taken his force into a fight that he couldn't win, and had paid for it. No doubt when they reached Mut'la, the inevitable Board of Inquiry would rule against him, and there was only one possible outcome.... "Get us out of here. Now!" "Best speed," the First Officer told Helm. "Best speed," Helm replied as several long-range shots from Constellation struck home, and the ship shuddered. "HELM!" Shouted the Commander. "Get us out of here!" "I'm trying, Commander. Two of our thrusters are damaged. Speed cut by fifty percent." The Scan Officer checked his screens. "Their fighters are holding on both flanks," he said. "Wait....I'm picking up two targets, at the edge of our range." Hearing that, the Commander felt better. Reinforcements, perhaps? "Can you identify?" "Not as of yet," Scan replied. He focused his scanners,then his heart froze. "By the Gods...." "What?" On Galactica's Bridge, Athena called to Adama. "Risik ship on passive sensors." "Just one?" Adama asked. "So far." Adama saw the display on one of his station's monitors, and nodded. "That's it. Go active, all sensors." "Going active, Commander." As the Galactica went active, so did the Base Ship. And both ships picked up the solitary Risik Cruiser. "Target is a Patrol Cruiser, and he's damaged," Athena said. "Wait...I'm picking up a single nuclear-tipped missile in his tubes." She paused, then added. "No other Risik ships detected. All other scanner targets are friendly." Tigh heard that, and turned to Adama. "Commander-" "I heard, Tigh. This ends today. Right now," Adama said, his voice firm and decisive. "Omega, target that ship and fire." "Commander," Omega said. He relayed the order, and the battlestar's gunners opened fire. In the Base Ship's Command Center, Baltar, Moray, Ayesha, and Starbuck were watching. "Moray, target that cruiser with the Dorsal Mega-pulsar. We're ending this. Now." "By your command," Moray said. The orders were relayed, then Moray added, "Dorsal Mega-pulsar has the target." "Fire at will." As the mount opened up, Starbuck said, "I see you want a fast kill on this." "The faster the better," Baltar replied. "And we leave these....people in our wake for good." "Couldn't happen to a nicer crowd," Starbuck agreed. "What?" The Commander of the Nemesis repeated. "It's the Battlestar and the Base Ship!" The Scan Officer replied, panic in his voice as he saw death approach on the main screen. "But....how?" The Commander said, his voice still dripping with contempt for these...Te'reans. "This isn't possible!" "It doesn't matter!" The First Officer whirled to face his CO. "You arrogant ass! You've killed us!" As he said that, Heavy turbolaser and pulsar fire from Galactica's forward batteries, and Mega-pulsar fire from the Base Ship, poured into the hapless cruiser. The last thing anyone on the bridge of the Nemesis felt was the heat as the ship blew apart. When she blew, there was some brief interference on the scanners of both warships as radion flared across the frequencies, before cooling in the cold vacuum of space. "Risik ship destroyed, Commander," Omega reported. "Very well, Omega." Adama said. "Athena, scan for any lifepods or a buoy." "Scanning, Commander," Athena replied. After a few microns, she said, "Negative for both. No survivors, and no buoy." "That's good. They won't know where or when this ship was destroyed," Tigh said. Adama nodded. "Always a good thing, Tigh. Especially with these....people." He consulted the monitor screen, which showed Constellation and her charges, Byrne's fighters, and both Blue Squadron and Squadron One. "Let's recall both Blue Squadron and Squadron One. I want them turned around as soon as possible." "Yes, Commander," Tigh said, relaying the orders. "Omega, full speed to the Constellation and her flock, and have the Base Ship follow." "Commander." On Constellation's Bridge, Captain Byrne was busy. "Mr. Dilley?" He called his Damage-Control Officer. "Damage Report?" The DCO came back on the telecom. "Just an affected circuit, which has been reset. No other shipboard damage." "Very well, Mr. Dilley," Byrne said. He then got in touch with his Ship's Doctor. "Dr. Rena? Do you have a casualty report?" "I do, Captain," Dr. Rena replied. "No casualties, thank the Lords." "That's always a relief. I'm glad we didn't need your services. Thank you, Doctor." The Captain then called up the XO. "Mr. Dante?" "Apart from the Galactica and Base Ship recovering their fighters, nothing else showing out there," the XO replied. "Very well." Mr. Agron came over. "Captain, do you want to secure from General Quarters?" He asked. Byrne thought for a few microns, then shook his head. "No, Mr. Agron, not yet. Not until we hear from Commander Adama and find out what he's got in mind." Agron nodded. "Aye, sir. And our own fighters?" "Have Broadsword land first and get them turned around. Katana can wait: they've got the fuel since they didn't get into the fight," said Byrne. "Yes, sir." A few centons later, the Galactica and the Base Ship arrived at Constellation's position. "Commander," Athena reported. "There's a lot of debris here. And all of it appears to be Risik, based on the scans." "Captain Byrne gave a lot more than he took," Tigh observed. "So it would seem," Adama said. "Omega, put both Captain Byrne and Baltar on the line, please." "Right away, Commander," Omega replied. The connection was quickly made, and both appeared on monitors. "Captain," Adama said. I see you've had some trouble." "Commander," Byrne replied. "That we did. One Exploratory Cruiser, two Fleet Scouts, and three short-range scouts are accounted for. The Patrol Cruiser you know about. And there's one other thing." "Which is?" "They had a recon drone, with some stealth technology," said Byrne. "We had a hard time picking it up on sensors, and the fighter pilots who killed it? They had to shoot by eye." "Adama," Baltar said. "If the Risik have stealth ships, then others that we don't know about may as well." Adama nodded. Ever diplomatic, he said, "That's a very real possibility, Baltar." He thought for a moment, then added, "I'll have a talk with Doctor Wilker, and see what his people can do in terms of our scanners countering stealth ships." "That would be advisable," Baltar said. "At least we'll be out of their range after tomorrow." "For which we should all be thankful," Adama said. "Captain, status of the Piz Goria?" "Chief Twilly and his people are busy, Commander. And be glad it was just a power relay that just decided to quit. If it had blown, the cascade would have resulted in the whole Engineering Compartment and several nearby ones being blown to pieces. At least." Adama understood full well. "And at most, we would've lost the ship and everyone aboard," he nodded. They didn't need a repeat of what had happened to the Agro Ship, which had led to the Boron-Din detour. "And how long for the repair?" "At least a centar, Commander," Byrne replied. "More likely two." "I see. Very well, we'll remain here for the time being, then we'll escort them all back to the Fleet." "Adama?" Baltar asked. "Do we reduce our alert status?" "One moment," Adama said. He'd been wondering about that himself. "Athena, any ships on scanners?" "Stand by, Commander," Athena said as she worked her console. "No other ships detected, apart from the Fleet. But...there's several planetoids, and even an ice giant. Somebody could hide behind those-" "And be blocked from our scans," Adama finished. "I'm not willing to take a chance on any more surprises. We'll remain at Condition One until we have more information." "Understood, Baltar said. "Orion's squadron will be ready in ten centons." Adama nodded. "That's good. Once Blue Squadron's ready, we'll send some fighters out to search ahead of us, and to scout those planetoids and that ice giant." "Prudent." "And Captain? I have a job for you on the way back to the Fleet. There's a Risik Scout that our fighters shot up before they got here. It's drifting and lifeless. You have the best tow beam in the Fleet: reel that ship in, and have your Boarding Party search it. I want their computer drives, as well as any charts, documents, and anything else of value. And when you're through? Give it to the Recycling Ship. They'll take over, and we can use the metal." "Yes, sir," Byrne said. "Very well, any questions, gentlemen?" Adama asked. When both Baltar and Byrne said no, he nodded. "Then let's proceed." Ten centons later, the Galactica and Base Ship launched fighters to make sure the intended course back to the Fleet was clear, then a centar after that, the Piz Goria, now fully repaired, was able to get underway. As the ships headed back to the Fleet, the derelict Risik Scout appeared on scanners, and Constellation broke away on her mission. "Risik ship in range," Mr. Agron reported as the drifting ship appeared on the main bridge screen. "Very well, Mr. Agron," Byrne said, the scout-a wedge-shaped one, he saw, looked familiar. The reports of triangle shaped UFOs came back to him. Had these particular ships come to Earth as well? Or did those belong to someone else? Only one way to find out. "Now, Mr. Malik. Reel her in." The Scout, hit by the tow beam, was pulled effortlessly into the Docking Bay, and after it was set down, the Boarding and Landing party was waiting. "Captain," Mr. Agron reported. "Lieutenant Lars reports the target ship is in the bay and down." Lars was the ship's LSO. "Very well," Byrne said. He then got on the telecom with Lieutenant Sanderson. "Lieutenant? I want that ship secured, and once she's secure, let me know. Commander Adama wants the hard drive off that ship's computer, plus anything even remotely of intelligence value." The Marine Lieutenant knew what the Captain meant. Having gone through an Iraqi command post during the mop-up in Kuwait during the Gulf War, she knew the drill. "Will do, sir." "All right, Lieutenant," Byrne said. "Keep me informed, and if you think something's too good to be true, then it probably is." Sanderson knew that as well. If it looked like it was booby-trapped..... "Yes, sir. We'll back off, and call for an EOD team." "Good call. And good luck." "Thank you, sir," Sanderson replied. After the Captain hung up, she went over to where her boarders were. Not just Wagner and her boys from Security, but several pilots from Broadsword, and Flight Sergeant Kidron from Katana were there as well-on Byrne's orders. "All right, people! We're going in, and we go over that ship from bottom to top, fore to aft. There's a ventral hatch, and we'll go in there. Sergeant? You have the stunners?" She asked Wagner. "Right here, Ma'am," Wagner replied, holding a bag with at least a dozen flash-bang grenades. "Thanks to Major Croft, we've got more than we'll ever need." She was also carrying her H&K 416 assault rifle. Airman Reynolds also had a 416, while Wagner's Security men, Kidron, and the guys from Broadsword had laser carbines or pistols. And Sanderson herself also had a 416. "All right: Sergeant Kidron? You're up. Set a charge on that hatch, then blow it." Kidron nodded, then went to the ventral hatch and set the breaching charge for 20 microns, then he ducked behind one of the ship's landing pads. The charge went off, and the boarders raced for the hatch. Wagner was one of the first, and without even waiting for an order, she began throwing stun grenades into the blown hatch. After a half-dozen, she stopped. "That should be enough." "Let's go," Sanderson said, as she lifted herself up the hatch. She found herself in a cargo/baggage bay, which had not only what appeared to be camping gear, but also survey equipment, a field shelter, and most unusual for a scout, a number of automatic weapons and grenade launchers. "Some scouts," she nodded as Wagner climbed up and into the compartment. "Scouts loaded for bear, looks like," Wagner said as Metxan came up next, portable scanner in hand. "Anything on that?" "A lot of electronic signals from up forward," Metxan said, pointing to a hatch on the forward bulkhead. "Avionics Bay," Kidron said as he came up, with Airman Reynolds following. "That's my guess." "Check the hatch," Sanderson said. It looked like an ordinary hatch on any Navy ship, round, and this one was airtight. Kidron went to the hatch and loosened it, before the hatch swung open. It was filled with electronic equipment, all of which was still working. "One of these has to be the ship's computer." "That crazy tech you've told us about, Hummer?" Sanderson said to Wagner. Seeing the Sergeant nod, she added, "I'll have the Captain get him over here and see what he and his fellow nerds can make of it." "Nerds?" Metxan asked, hearing another "Earthism", and Sanderson explained. "Ah. Tech geeks." "One way of putting it," Reynolds said. He looked up and there was another hatch, above some rungs set into the starboard bulkhead. "There's the way up." "Got it," Wagner said. "Cover me." She climbed up the rungs and got to the hatch. "We got you," Sanderson replied as she, Reynolds, Metxan, and Kidron pointed their weapons at the hatch. Wagner unscrewed the hatch, and it popped open. She tossed a couple of stunners, then ducked back down. After the grenades went off, she jumped up, weapon in hand, and swept a corridor with four cabin doors, and up front, a bulkhead that had been blasted apart. "Clear!" The rest of the boarders came up the hatch, and Sanderson looked forward at the scorched and twisted bulkhead. "That must be the cockpit. Sergeant?" She nodded at Wagner. "You and Reynolds." "Ma'am," Wagner said. The two USAF airmen raised their rifles, and stepped through a blast hole into the cockpit. "Ugh.." Reynolds suddenly felt nauseous at seeing what was left of the two Risik pilots. "Got two who've assumed ambient temperature here," he said, before throwing up. This was the first time in his AF service-whether on Earth or in the camp-where he'd seen traumatic death up close. Wagner came up, and checked the two bodies. Neither Risik had been wearing any kind of pressure suit, but that wouldn't have helped in any event. Both had taken the laser nearly dead on, and were quite charred. "He's right, Ma'am. Two bodies, and that Viper or Raider shot deep-fried 'em." "All right, Sergeant. Are any of the electronics still working?" Sanderson asked. "Some instruments look like they still work," said Wagner. "Can't read any of it, though." Hearing that, Sanderson nodded. She saw the rungs going up still, to what might be the gunnery station. "Back here, both of you." Then she turned to Kidron. "Sergeant, you take Paulson and two guys from Broadsword, and check the upper deck. Rest of you? Check out the rest of the ship." Wagner and Reynolds came back as Kidron and his people went up the hatch. She and Reynolds followed their CO as she checked the port forward cabin, which was quite intact. When they entered, they found one bunk unfolded from the forward bulkhead, neatly made, but the desk had personal papers, and a number of books and data discs also sat on the desk. "Commander or Pilot had this one," the Marine Lieutenant said. "Looks that way," Wagner agreed. "Metxan?" She called to her deputy. "Anything in the next cabin?" "The one next to you?" Metxan asked. "Empty. Bunks still folded. Shelves empty, that one's not being used." "Very well. Garris?" "Starboard forward's been used. One bunk folded down, lots of personal gear still here, that sort of thing," the ex-detective said. Sanderson came out of the cabin, with Wagner and Reynolds following. Just then, two of Broadsword's pilots came out of the fourth cabin. "Anything?" "This one was occupied," the Corporal said. "The bunk wasn't made, though." Sanderson nodded, then she walked into what was the Common Room, which had some exercise equipment, a shower, galley and food storage, computer consoles-for games and whatever, she thought. It was like in a Star Wars movie, it seemed. The Marine then looked at the after bulkhead, which was twisted and had a shattered hatch. "Metxan?" The Sergeant checked his portable scanner. "I wouldn't go in that way, Ma'am. We'll need some of Mr. Dilley's Damage-Control people." "I'll let the Captain know," Sanderson nodded. She then went to the hatch that led topside, and called through the hatch. "Sergeant Kidron? Anything?" "This was the gunnery station by the looks of it, Ma'am," Kidron called down. "The screen's still on, with crosshairs still displayed. And a dead gunner in the seat. There's also an upper gallery they were using for storage. Then forward of that's an airlock." "Very well, Sergeant. Any manuals, data discs, anything like that?" "Yes, Ma'am." "All right: secure those, and anything else you can think of." "On it, Ma'am," Kidron replied, then he and the Broadsword guys with him set to work. Sanderson nodded, then turned to Wagner. "Sergeant? Get the bodies out of the cockpit, and the gunnery station. I'll call the Captain and have Dr. Rena take custody." Wagner nodded, then she motioned to both Metxan and Airman Reynolds to follow her. "The rest of you?" Sanderson told the other boarders. "Start cleaning out the cabins and common area. Anything that might be of intelligence value gets removed. And watch out for booby traps, people! I don't want any dead team members! Got me?" Garris nodded, then turned to them. "You heard her. Let's get busy, people!" Only then did Lieutenant Sanderson call the Captain. "Very well, Lieutenant," Byrne said as Sanderson concluded her report. "I'll get Mr. Dilley and his DC people there, along with Dr. Rena and her medtechs for the bodies. Before you touch anything, I'm sending the Ship's Photographer. She'll take photos of everything before it's moved." "Sir, we'll need some more help to get this ship not only unloaded, but the computer..." "I'm ahead of you there. I'll contact Commander Adama and request Hummer and his techies for that." "Thank you, sir," Sanderson replied. "And Lieutenant? Well done," Byrne said with a bit of pride in his voice. "I'll be down there shortly to see this ship for myself." "We'll be here, sir." Byrne then turned to his Communications Officer. "Miss Alyssia? Get me Commander Adama." After talking with Captain Byrne, Adama nodded to Tigh. "Colonel, have Doctor Wilker get Technician Hummer and some of his people over to the Constellation. They'll handle the computer, and bring all of the other material back for examination." "Yes, sir," Tigh said, relaying the order. Adama then went to the Plot Board. "Athena, anything on scanners?" "Negative, Commander. Apart from friendly ships, no other ships detected," Athena replied. "Thank you, Athena," Adama said. He studied the plot, then asked Omega. "ETA to the Fleet?" The Bridge Officer did the calculations. "One and a half centars, present speed." "Very well," Adama said. "Patrol reports?" "Nothing found, Commander. Captain Apollo reports, and I quote, 'A whole lot of nothing.'" Hearing that, Adama had a chuckle to himself. He'd given a few similar reports back in his fighter pilot days. "Very good, Omega." Tigh then came over. "Commander, Hummer and a couple of his techs are getting their equipment together. They'll be ready to leave in ten centons." "Good, Tigh. When we get back to the Fleet, and return to our course, I'll be going over there. I want to have a look at this Risik scout for myself. Meanwhile, inform both Baltar and Captain Byrne. Secure from Condition One and go to Condition Three." "Sir." Two Centars later, with the Fleet back on course, Commander Adama and Sires Pelias and Xaviar shuttled over to Constellation. As their shuttle came into the Docking Bay, the three saw the Risik Scout for the first time. "For a scout, it's an impressive ship," Pelias said. "Yes, it is," Xaviar agreed. "But something's bothering me." "Sire?" Adama asked. "That dorsal turret, Commander," Xaviar pointed to the wrecked turret. "It would seem that their Scout Service may not be a totally civilian agency. Quite unlike our own Exploratory Service, the one we had prior to the war with the Cylons." Adama nodded. He had heard from Apollo before the Holocaust about hopes that the Colonies could get back to deep space exploratory missions, if the peace had been a real one. In a way, they were doing just that, traversing unknown space, not as scientific explorers, but sadly, on their quest to find Earth. "Even our own scouts had to be careful in unexpectedly hazardous situations, or with angry natives." "Indeed." The pilot, Sergeant Mackin, opened the hatch, and the three found Captain Byrne waiting for them. "Permission to come aboard, Captain?" Adama asked. "Granted, Commander," Byrne said. "You and the Councilmen are always welcome aboard Constellation." He shook their hands, then gestured towards the Risik prize. "And how does she look?" "For a scout, she's an impressive one," Adama said. "Much larger than what our scouts were before the war, based on our History scans." Byrne nodded. "So my Chief Engineer has told me, when he had a look, Commander. If you'll follow me?" Byne then led the party to the stern, where Mr. Dilley's DC people had cut an access hole, and had lowered a ramp from a compartment on the starboard side of the engine bay. The compartment had held a small tracked vehicle, presumably for ground exploration and survey work, but it had taken a couple of hits, and what was left of the vehicle now sat on the deck of the Docking Bay. To Adama, the vehicle was similar to the one used on the mission to Serenity, only this one had a pintle mount for a weapon. "They weren't exactly giving a good first impression with that weapons mount," he observed. "Commander," Xaviar said. "That was probably the last thing our Risik friends were concerned about. But I get your point. Chances are, they did have to deal with angry natives." "No doubt," Pelias agreed. "How is the ship powered?" "She's got a fusion drive as well as FTL," Byrne replied. "My Chief Engineer says it's pretty advanced, and it also means they can dive into the uppermost layers of a gas giant and skim for fuel." "Which extends their range as far as fuel goes, but food?" Xaviar asked. "Sire," Adama said. "Chances are, they'd have to look for a supply ship, or they'd have to go back to a base when they get low." "Yes, sir," Byrne said. "Want to bet that one of those cruisers we blew was carrying supplies for them? But if they were? That, along with whatever was in their computers...." His voice trailed off. "Was lost with the ships," Pelias finished. "What about them?" He asked, referring to the crew. "Over here, Sire," Byrne said. He led the party to where three body bags were laid out on deck, and Dr. Rena was making notes on a pad for her report and the ship's files. "Doc." "Captain?" She then noticed the Councilmen and the Commander. "And Commander and Sires." "What have you got for us, Doctor?" Adama asked. "Commander, I can give a report right now," Dr. Rena said. She pointed to two of the bags. "It's just a prelim, though. I'll know more when I get them on the table. The cockpit crew? Both died instantly. Either from decompression or from the laser strikes. They were pretty well, uh, deep-fried, as Sergeant Wagner said." "And the other?" "Shrapnel wounds to the chest and head, which would've killed him, but the compartment being depressurized also was a factor," Dr. Rena replied. "I won't need to do a full autopsy, so what do I do with these three?" Sergeant Wagner, who was cataloguing the weapons offloaded, overheard that. "Dump them with the rest of the garbage," she muttered. "I like the way you talk, Ma'am," Airman Reynolds grinned. Adama thought for a moment, then turned to Byrne. "Captain, I'll leave it to your best judgement. Just handle them with a minimum of fuss." Byrne nodded. "Yes, sir." He then led them over to where the contents of the ship's cargo bay had been laid out, including the weapons and ammunition, and both Sergeant Wagner and Airman Reynolds were inventoring those. "Sergeant," Byrne said. "What have you got?" "Sir," Wagner said, drawing to attention. "Commander," she added. "These guys were definitely some not-so-friendly explorers." She showed them the mini-arsenal that had been unloaded. "Several pistols, the same type we found on the Derelict and from Lemeshik's ship; and several assault rifles and submachine guns to go along with them." She picked up a weapon that was similar to the Bullpup rifle the Risik used, but this one was smaller and lighter. About the size of an FN P-90, Byrne thought. "And the rifles, Sergeant?" "Same model as the one on my office wall," Wagner said, referring to the rifle that she had brought back from the raid, having killed the previous user-the Chief Guard at the camp. "Got to be familiar with these at the camp, sir," Airman Reynolds added. "Usually on the receiving end of the butt. Several of us did pay attention to the guards and how they handled their rifles, though." "In case the chance came to jump a guard while on a work detail?" Byrne asked. "Yes, sir, but we never did get that chance: we were always chained up around the ankles whenever we worked outside the camp." Xaviar shook his head, then he saw two machine guns. "Machine guns? I haven't seen anything like these since the Academy and their Historical Weapons Collection." "Two types, Sire," Wagner said. "A light machine gun for one man to use, the other a heavy for vehicle mounting." "Which went on that 'exploratory vehicle'," Pelias said disgustedly. "These people-and I do use that term very loosely, mind you, seem to be more interested in intimidating or frightening natives than scientific contact. Given their ideology, should we expect anything different?" "No," Adama said. "Sergeant, how much in terms of munitions did they have?" "Quite a bit, Commander," said Wagner. She pointed to several boxes of ammunition and several belts for the machine guns. "Maybe they were expecting trouble from a landing party from either the Galactica or Constellation? That'd be my guess." She went on, "They've also got some explosives, two grenade launchers and several dozen high-explosive and fragmentation grenades for those, and all of that in addition to their field gear: a couple of tents, portable stove, what looks like a small water purifier, a larger shelter, and more basic camping gear. Plus a couple of portable computers, some containers to hold plant or soil samples, and containers for water samples." "And several boxes of field rations, Commander," Airman Reynolds added. "I do recognize those from work details at the base near the camp." "Hmm," Adama nodded. "So they were at least paying lip-service to their exploratory mission." He turned to Byrne. "Captain, make sure everything's properly catalogued, then we'll decide on what to do with all this. We might find some use for it, and knowing Major Croft? His SF team will want to test those weapons." Hearing that, both Wagner and Reynolds grinned. A chance to shoot those rifles? They wouldn't miss that for the world. "Yes, sir," Byrne said. "If you want to have a look inside?" He gestured to a small ladder beneath the blown entrance hatch. "Of course," Adama said. "Sergeant, Airman? Well done." "Thank you, Commander," Wagner replied. Byrne led the Commander and the two Councilmen to the ladder, and they climbed up into the scout's cargo bay. When they all got inside, the party saw that the bay had been emptied, but there was work going on in the avionics bay, for Hummer and his two techs were at it. "Technician," Adama said. "How's it going?" "Commander," Hummer said, looking up from his portable computer. "We're just about finished with the download, then we'll get the hard drive itself." "Why download here?" Pelias asked. "Why not wait until you're back in the lab?" "Sire, they may have a 'drive killer' installed, if we try and remove it. If we did that, we'd lose the information, and the electronics would also be unusuable for recycling," Hummer said. "So we do it this way." "I see," Pelias said. "Better safe than sorry, then?" "My thoughts exactly, Sire," Adama said. "Anything in the files that jumps out at you, Technician?" Hummer nodded. "We found their star charts, and we'll have to match those with our database, Commander. There's also a bunch of files, and most of that is text, with some video, and we'll see what that's all about. And a couple of the guys working on the Main Deck say they found some printed star charts, so we'll be looking at those." "Very good, Technician," Adama said. Then one of the techs in the Avionics Bay waved to Hummer. "Commander, looks like I'm going to be busy some more," he said. Adama smiled. "All right, Technician. Get back to work, and get it done." "Yes, sir!" Hummer grinned, then went back into the bay. "He's always happy when he's doing something like this," Xaviar observed. He then noticed the rungs on the bulkhead. "I take it that's the only way up?" Byrne nodded, and the party followed him up to the Main Deck. Lieutenant Sanderson was there as her people were working on the cabins. "Lieutenant," Byrne said. "Captain," Sanderson replied, saluting. Then she recognized Commander Adama and the council members. "Commander," she added. "And Sires." "Lieutenant," Adama said. "How are things going here?" "We're working on the cabins and the common room," the Marine Lieutenant replied. "I'll show you the one empty cabin." She took the party to that particular one, and showed them around. "The bunks fold down from the bulkheads." Sanderson demonstrated, then waved around the cabin. "Head and shower, closet and other storage, computer monitor and console, looks like." She nodded. "Apart from the head and shower, and the computer? This would pass for any two-officer cabin on a U.S. Navy ship back home." "Looks that way, Lieutenant," Byrne said. "The Common Room?" "I'll show you." She took the group to that room. "They had everything here. A galley and food storage, with refrigeration and a freezer, plus a pantry. Entertainment area with a computer console and a large screen, exercise equipment, and so on." "More than enough, I'd say, for a three-man crew," Xaviar noted. "But this ship could carry eight. Which begs the question: where's the rest?" "Maybe they didn't need any extra hands?" Pelias offered. "Or their original mission was extended due to our actions, and they couldn't get any extra crew?" "All valid questions, Sire," Adama said. "We'll know soon enough, when Pliny and his students translate their mission orders and communications logs. As well as the commander's personal papers." The young Sire nodded. "Of course, Commander." Adama nodded, then gestured to the hatch leading to the upper deck. "I take it that leads to the gunnery station?" "Yes, sir," Sanderson replied. "We cleaned that out first thing. Manuals, some computer discs, loose papers, even the contents of the wastebasket; all of that's been bagged up and offloaded." "And the cockpit?" "I'll show you, sir." Sanderson led the group to the shattered cockpit. Several consoles were still intact and working, displaying data, but others were quite dark, and others were wrecked. "I recognize some of the symbols, but I'm not fluent by any means. We did find the emergency beacon, though, and disabled it." "Good work, Lieutenant," said Adama. "No sense in leaving them a trail to follow." "Has all of this been imaged?" Xaviar asked. "Sire, before anything was touched, much less removed," Byrne said. "I had the ship's photographer-who is one of the refugees-come aboard. She photographed everything before we went further." "In essence, Sire," Sanderson added. "We were treating this ship like a crime scene." "Good idea, Lieutenant," Adama said. He had a final look around, then shook her hand. "Well done." "Thank you, sir." "And pass that on to your team." "Yes, sir!" After leaving the ship, and having one last walk-around, where Adama thanked those who were working outside, he and the councilmen had one final talk with Captain Byrne. "Commander?" Byrne asked. "How soon until you're finished with this ship?" Adama asked. "A few centars, Commander," Byrne replied. "Then we'll turn it over to the Recycling Ship." Adama nodded. "Very good, Captain." "Will there be an after-action review, Commander?" Xaviar asked. "In a day or two, Sire," Adama said. "After tomorrow, we'll be clear of their effective pursuit range. In any event, we need some time for Pliny and his students to do their work. We'll get their flight logs, navigation and scanner data, and their mission orders at least." "And after that comes the Welcome-Aboard Party," Pelias grinned. Adama nodded. "Indeed, Sire. A night that all of us can look forward to. Our travelers from Earth have been without for far too long, and our newest arrivals, the Risik dissidents, will find that we-and our Earth friends, are not the people their propaganda has made us out to be." "We're all looking forward to that, Commander," Byrne said. "As we all are," Adama said. He held out his hand. "Captain? For all your work today? Well done." Byrne shook hands with the Commander. "Thank you, sir, and I'll pass that to the crew." Chapter 10: The next morning, Commander Adama came onto Galactica's Bridge. He had his usual working breakfast, this time with Sire Pelias and Siress Tinia, and not only the previous day's engagement had been a topic of discussion, but the fact that as of midmorning, the Fleet would be beyond the Risik's effective pursuit range. "Now we can put what's behind us, truly behind, and worry about what's ahead of us," Pelias had said, and neither Tinia nor the Commander had seen any reason to disagree. As he logged in, Adama saw Tigh come over. "Good morning, Colonel." "Good morning, Commander," Tigh replied. "The morning sitrep is ready. Chief Twilly reports the new Power relay on the Piz Goria is functioning normally, and so far, so good." "That's good news, Colonel," Adama said. "The last thing we need is a repeat of what happened with the Agro Ship and the Boron-Din affair. For if that had blown...." Tigh knew the rest. "Which we could do without," he nodded. "Captain Apollo's patrol has launched, and won't be back until 1400 at least." "And overnight?" "Nothing detected, and the Century has dropped back to check our rear flank." Adama nodded, then went to check out the Plot Board. "Good. We'll be out of their effective pursuit range after midmorning, but we'll keep the Rules of Engagement and the double patrols for another day. Just to be safe." "Yes, Commander," Tigh said. Athena then came up with the overnight scanner report. "Father," she said, handing Adama the pad with the report. Adama scanned it, then signed it with a stylus. Nothing detected. "Thank you, Athena." "Father," Athena smiled. "When's this Welcome-Aboard Party I keep hearing about?" "In a couple of days," Adama replied, smiling. "You're looking forward to it?" "I wouldn't miss this for anything," she said cheerfully. "A chance to meet some more people from Earth, and some Risik who are a lot more friendly than the ones we're used to meeting." Usually at the point of a laser, she thought. "Quite," Adama said as Omega came up with the overnight Sitrep. Adama scanned it, and signed it. "Thank you, Omega." "Commander," the Bridge Officer replied, then he went back to the Command Station. Adama nodded again, then checked the Plot Board. "Two more days and we'll finally be back on our Episilon Vector 22 course for Earth," he said. "Any word from Pliny and his students, Colonel?" Tigh checked his pad. "They have quite a bit, Commander," the XO said. "Enough that they're confident to have a briefing on." "Have they passed their information to Major Croft's FIU?" Adama was referring to the reconstituted Fleet Intelligence Unit. "They have," Tigh reported. "Very good," Adama said. He looked out the bridge portal for a few microns, then nodded. "Call a Sit Brief for 1600. With the usual participants, and add both Sarah and Melnea to that." Tigh nodded. "Yes, Commander." Adama checked a scan monitor, which showed all clear, and then turned back to Tigh. "Is that it for now?" "Apart from the usual conference call with Baltar, Captain Byrne, and Commander Allen, that's it until the Sit Brief." "Very well," the Commander nodded. "Thank you, Colonel." That afternoon, the principals began to gather, either in Galactica's Ward Room, or via com from their ships. On Constellation, Captain Byrne, Lieutenant Sanderson, Sergeant Wagner, and Petty Officer Clemens were waiting as the Com Link to the Galactica was established. When it came up, Sire Pelias and Siress Tinia were already there. "Sire," Byrne said. "And Siress." "Captain," Tinia replied. "You were right: you and Commander Allen. We did have one more fight." "That we did, Siress," Byrne nodded. "And Constellation gave a lot more than we took." "Yes, but with these people? I'm wondering how much time we've bought. Not just for us, but for the other races nearby?" Pelias came over. "That, Tinia, is a very good question. Hopefully, the FIU can give us some answers, or at the very least, some informed guesswork." "All we can expect, Sire," Commander Allen said as he came on the line. "There's a couple of races that we bypassed with the detour to Ne'Chak, but the Risik could walk in on one of them and just take over." "I remember that," Tinia said. "Wasn't there another one that had just discovered atomic energy?" "Yes," Sire Xaviar said as he came over. "And our....friends might just go ahead and attack them anyway. Even if it risks having a good deal of the planet contaminated by fallout." "Their ideology again," Captain Ashby remarked from Adelaide. "No doubt punishment of their gods, or whatever, for resisting." "Yes," Xaviar agreed. He shook his head. "The will of their gods, or some other such nonsense." "Which is what we got shoved down our throats, all the time we were there," Sanderson replied. "But Sire, they are a bunch of hypocrites." Pelias nodded. "As we've gotten to know. They are the ones who deal out death and destruction, and yet, when the favor is returned..." Sanderson nodded back. "Then they scream bloody murder." "That is one way of putting it, Lieutenant," said Xaviar. Major Croft and Doctor Wilker came in, followed by Sarah and Melnea. Then Baltar and the Cylons came on the com, and the usual pleasantries were exchanged. Colonel Tigh then came, and announced, "Everyone, Commander Adama and Captain Apollo will be here momentarily." A couple of centons later, Adama and Apollo came into the Ward Room. "Good afternoon, everyone," Adama said. "I see by the chrono it's only 1559, so I'm a centon early." There was some laughter at that, even from Baltar, then Adama went on. "We'll go over yesterday's engagement with the Risik, then Doctor Wilker has some information from Pliny and his students. Major Croft has a report from the new Fleet Intelligence Unit, and then the floor will be open for any other matters." Heads nodded at that, then Adama gestured to Tigh. "Colonel." "Commander, everyone," Tigh began. "As you know by now, yesterday's engagement was due to an unexpected encounter with a portion of their reaction force, as best as has been determined. However, the encounter was due to an engineering casualty aboard the Piz Goria. A power relay failed, and two ships were detached to tow her, if necessary, while repairs were made, and Constellation stood by as a guard ship. However, they were discovered by the Risik, and events flowed from there." Captain Byrne took over. "They did. We faced a Patrol Cruiser, an Exploratory Cruiser, two Fleet Scouts, and four of their short-range scouts-like those they used at Earth. I launched fighters for a Combat Air Patrol, then had one squadron cover the Piz Goria and the other two ships, while another squadron went after the short-range scouts. And my CAP found a surprise: a stealth recon drone." "Stealthed?" Xaviar asked. "You're sure about that, Captain?" "I'm positive, Sire," Byrne replied. "My sensor officer has the recordings, and I'm also familiar with Stealth Aircraft back home, and how they appear on radar. This drone behaved as one of our stealth fighters or bombers would. The fighter pilots who killed it had to aim by eye instead of their attack computers." "Commander," Pelias said. "We'll have to come up with some kind of countermeasures. If the Risik have this technology..." "Then others may do so as well," Adama finished. He turned to Wilker. "Doctor, start thinking about some enhancements to our scanners." "I'll get right on it, sir," Wilker replied. "That cloaking technology we've acquired? Is there anything there we can use? See what can be done to help detect any kind of stealth ships." "Yes, Commander," Wilker nodded, making notes on his pad. "Thank you, Doctor," Adama said. "Please continue, Captain." "Yes, sir," said Byrne. "Their Fleet and short-range scouts closed, and I sent a squadron to engage." He replayed gun-camera video from that portion of the engagement. "One of the Fleet scouts made it to Constellation's weapons range, and we took him out." "And they didn't get the message," Starbuck said from the Base Ship. "No. The two big ships closed in, and after warning them off, we opened fire," said Byrne. He replayed the warning message to the Risik Captain, and the response, then played the video of the capital ship fight. "And note the Exploratory Cruiser," he added. "He put himself between us and the Patrol Cruiser, soaking up our fire." Tinia was curious. "Now why would he do that?" "Siress," Commander Allen said from Adelaide. "He was acting to help a ship he was charged to protect. Not unlike a convoy escort back home. During our Second World War, there were several instances where escorts deliberately put themselves between a submarine's torpedoes and the ships the escort was protecting." "I see," Tinia replied. "The ultimate self-sacrifice?" "That's a way of putting it." "Adama," Baltar said. "We can despise these people for all they've done, and yet, one can admire a captain like that. He knew he wasn't coming back when he put his ship in that kind of danger." Always diplomatic, Adama nodded. "Quite so, Baltar. And that captain did it anyway. Go on, Captain." "We damaged the Patrol Cruiser, and he turned away," Byrne said. "Only he didn't get very far." "No," Adama nodded. "Colonel?" Tigh picked things up from there. "Yes, Commander. The patrol cruiser tried to get away from Constellation, only to run into the Galactica and the Base Ship. Both ships took him out." He replayed the last moments of the cruiser from Galactica's perspective. When he saw the ship explode, Captain Ashby spat from Adelaide, "Goodbye and good riddance." "No argument there," Croft said. "No, and that's not all," Adama said. "Apollo?" "Commander," Apollo nodded. "Strike Leader Orion and I launched first, as the alert flight, and we found a Risik scout, only this one was from their Scout Service." He replayed the scanner disc, with the scout doing its survey of an airless planetoid. "Then the rest of both Blue Squadron and Squadron One arrived, and before proceeding to Constellation's position, the scout was disabled, so that a boarding party could retrieve documents, computers and other intelligence from him. And when we got there? Orion?" "By your command," the Cylon Strike Leader began. "At Captain Byrne's direction, both squadrons assumed flanking positions, to prevent the Risik ships from fleeing. Their only options were to proceed further, into the Constellation's guns, or to retreat, and face both approaching capital ships." "Which is what he did," Tigh said. "Yes, and that was the last thing he did," Xaviar said. "And after the battle?" Apollo picked up. "Both squadrons refueled, then we went back out, to check out the return course to the Fleet, and do the same to the Brown Dwarf system. We found nothing; not even a remote probe or a satellite around the planets or planetoids." "And no transmissions of any kind, either Standard or Gamma," Orion added. "Nothing at all." Adama nodded. "Well done, both of you, and pass that on to your pilots." "Yes, sir," Apollo replied. "By your command," Orion said. Adama gestured to Captain Byrne. "Captain, your day wasn't over. You had a Risik prize." "Yes, sir," Byrne replied. "On our way back to the Fleet, Constellation retrieved the Risik Scout, and we sent a boarding party aboard." He played a video shot after the ship had been secured, but before anything had been touched, much less removed. "She's built for eight, but had a three-man crew. Her power plant is a fusion drive, and she also has scoops so that they can dive into a gas giant and skim for fuel. And she was packing some firepower: a single laser in a turret, and they had a small arsenal aboard for the crew." Byrne said, showing the weapons found aboard. "As for the crew, all three had assumed ambient temperature when the boarding party went aboard." "And the bodies of the crew?" Pelias asked. "Sire, they've been taken care of," Byrne replied. "Discretely and with a minimum of fuss." Hearing that aboard Adelaide, Captain Zhukov turned to Captain Ashby. "Hopefully, Captain Byrne did the right thing." "Which is?" "He dumped them overboard with the rest of the garbage." The Colonials understood: the bodies had been flushed out with the ship's garbage. Nothing more need be said. "And the ship itself?" Tinia asked. "Siress, the Recycling Ship has it now, and all of the material-the computer and all documents, logs, manuals, and so on was handed over to Doctor Wilker's people for examination and exploitation," Byrne replied. Though in the old days, I'd be thinking about prize money, he thought. "Very good, Captain," Adama said. "Well done, to you and your crew." "Thank you, sir." "And that brings us to the material recovered," Adama nodded at Wilker. "Doctor?" The Chief Scientist stood. "Commander, everyone. First of all, here's the ship's star charts." He called up a display that showed the sector, then another that compared their current location to the Risik Capital. "Most of the systems in this sector are well off our course, and are of no use to us, but there are several of note. The closest system, here, about two-point-nine light-yahrens away, is noted as a danger zone, even though the world is potentially habitable." "A danger zone?" Baltar asked. "Why is that?" "It's simple, really," Wilker replied. "The Risik say that they sent two expeditions to that world, which has no indegnious civilization. Both expeditions wound up dead. A virus killed them all within days." "Ouch!" Allen said. "And this world's quarrantined from their perspective?" "Yes. And the system after that at a distance of seven-point-one light-yahrens? It's got several worlds, but none are useful: three gas giants with the usual family of moons, and an asteroid belt. The first gas giant, though? It's a sun-skimmer." "Are there any systems that are potentially useful to us?" Tinia asked. "There is one, here, Siress," Wilker said. "It's seventeen-point-two light-yahrens away, but it's got a G-class star with ten planets, one of which is habitable. No further information in their database, though." "Very good, Doctor. I want all of this information scanned and uploaded into our database," said Adama. "The more we have in terms of navigational data, the better." Wilker nodded. "Yes, Commander." "Before the doctor continues," Adama went on. "Colonel, I want you and Command Centurion Moray to double-check on the fuel and water situation. I know we're still in the green, but if we can refuel and take on water from this system, then we must take advantage of it." Tigh made a note on his pad. "Yes, Commander." "By your command," Moray added. "Very good," Adama said. "Doctor, please continue." "Commander," Wilker said. "There's a number of races in this sector. However," the scientist noted on the chart, "most of them are off our course, which means we can't warn them about the Risik. However, there is one, here, at the edge of the sector, and about fifteen degrees off our course, but this ship has no other information. All data on this race is restricted. It's not the Ke'zar, though. That is certain." "Why would they restrict this kind of information?" Allen asked. "Could this race be a potential threat to our...friends?" Starbuck asked from the Base Ship. "A very good question, Lieutenant," Adama said. "Any reason given, Doctor?" "No, sir," Wilker replied. "That information is centrally held." Moray said, "Logically, given what is known about the Risik State, this information may not be widely known, apart from their military and intelligence service." Adama nodded. Another interesting insight from a Cylon. "Melnea?" "Commander, the State is not that anxious to reveal that it is dealing with aliens on anything approaching an equal basis," the Risik defector replied. "It could be that the military, on its own deep survey and reconnaissance missions, has discovered this race, and is keeping it a secret from those with no 'need to know'." "That is not that all unusual in societies such as this," Sarah added. "Or that the secret police-which we know now has their own starships-may have found this race. Or they encountered one of their ships, and after defeating it, they....interrogated any survivors. From what we know of the Ziklagi, their reaction would have been the same, prior to their civil war." "Either way, someone down the line is going to get a visit from the Risik Star Force, and it's not going to be a friendly one," Byrne observed. Melnea nodded sadly. "That is a reasonable assumption, Captain." "Commander?" Tinia asked. "If we encounter this new race, I believe that we should warn them about the Risik." Baltar chimed in. "I agree with that, Adama. The more who know, the more likely that someone will be able to stop them. Or slow them down, at least." Though galling to everyone (except the Cylons), all knew Baltar was right. And ever the diplomat, Adama nodded. "Agreed. If we do encounter this race and make peaceful contact, we will definitely inform them." He nodded at Wilker. "And their mission orders?" "Coming to that, Commander," Wilker said. He called up the translation, and it appeared in the display. "They were to survey seven systems, three of which are off our course and they've already checked those. They had this one and the three that are upcoming left to work." "And did they have any kind of orders as to what to do if they found us?" Pelias asked. Wilker nodded. "Yes, sire, they did." Images of the Galactica, Base Ship, and Constellation appeared next, followed by Risik text and the translation. "They were ordered to avoid contact if at all possible, note our position and course, and return immediately with that information." "Return to where?" Commander Allen asked. "It is logical that it would be Mut'la," Moray offered. "It is the closest known base to our position." Hearing that, people were amazed. Another insight from a Cylon? But Wilker simply nodded. "Yes, Command Centurion. They were to return to that base if they encountered the Fleet and evaded contact." "Commander," Croft said. "That means that word of the raid and what some of our ships look like had made it. Their reaction force is probably based there now." Adama nodded. "Good point, Major. Anything else, Doctor?" "Yes, Commander," said Wilker. "We have some survey reports about the worlds ahead of us, but the Risik view them as preliminary. All of their scouts are to gather more information about those worlds, and Pliny and his students are working those reports as we speak." "Very good, Doctor. Have all of those scanned and uploaded into our database. When we get within patrol range of those, our pilots will find those useful." Wilker nodded. "Will do, Commander," he said, making a note on his pad. "Is that all for now?" "It is, Commander," the scientist replied. "Very good, Doctor. Well done, and pass that to your techs, along with Pliny and his students," Adama said. "Commander," Wilker said, sitting back down. Adama gestured to Croft. "Now we'll hear from the head of our new Fleet Intelligence Unit. Major Croft has taken on that responsibility in addition to his normal duties in command of our Special Forces Team. Major?" "Thank you, Commander," Croft said, standing up. "Let me dispense with two things right now. First, I'm not supervising the FIU day-to-day, but I am keeping a close eye on them nevertheless. I will put the Fear of God into them to produce accurate reports and estimates, because it's not just my SF Team who can be counted among the likely casualties, but the Viper and Raider pilots as well." He nodded at both Apollo and Orion to prove that point. "Noted, Major," Xaviar said. "And the second?" "Commander Septimus. He's an asset that we can't afford to pass up. He reports to my senior analyst, who then reports to me. And I have made use of him." "How so?" Baltar asked, looking at Moray. "He knows he's not returning to Cylon Space ever again, because if he did, the Leader would have him 'dismantled for parts', to use his phrase. So he wants to make himself useful in his current circumstances," Croft replied. "It is logical, from that viewpoint," Moray said. "And that is the punishment for gross incompetence in the Empire." Baltar nodded. "It is that," he said. "Lucifier did mention several colleagues of his who had been so....punished in the past." "So, then. He has cast his lot with us, for all intents and purposes?" Pelias asked. Croft nodded. "He has, Sire. In fact, when we first met, he told me that he was at my disposal." "Noted, Major," Adama said. "And so?" "Commander," Croft nodded. "It comes down to this," he said, calling up his report. "We have about five to seven yahrens before the Risik repair the damage we inflicted at Ne'Chak and replace the losses in ships we've inflicted. Then they will begin to get serious again about territorial expansion." Adama looked around the table, and on the monitors, and noted the heads shaking. "We were all hoping it would be longer, Major." "So did I, Commander," Croft said. "My analysts overlooked this, but it was Septimus who pointed this out: our friends have a large supply of prisoners who can be put to work on the rebuilding projects-at least on the surface of Ne'Chak. And as for the minerals they need? They do have access to several mineral-rich systems." "The Major is correct," Melnea said. "I fear that the once-charming colony will,for a few yahrens, become known as a Hades Hole-as you call it-for prisoners. Whatever notional safeguards for workplace safety will be....discarded, and the shifts will work continuously." To Byrne, that was all too familiar, knowing what Stalin's Gulags and the Nazi Concentration Camps did. "No matter how many get worked to death, they don't care as long as the projects get finished. On time and on budget." "Exactly, Captain," replied Melnea. "Special Regime prisoners will no doubt be sent to Ne'Chak as a matter of routine, and they will serve the State until they are worked to death." It took a centon to digest that, then Xaviar asked, "And how long to replace the ships we destroyed?" "A couple of Yahrens, Sire," Croft said. "In one of our yards before the Holocaust? A Yahren and a half, easy. For them? Two. How long to replace the crews? We're not certain. And consider this: while they're replacing the ships lost, in the short term, they'll likely be shifting some resources from offense to defense. They may not believe Sub-Commander Morovik or the message you gave, Commander." "They're judging us by their own past actions, in other words," Tinia said. "That is a reasonable assumption, Siress," Melnea said. "The Supreme Leader may believe that we have given Morovik some, what is the term? Disinformation?" "That's the term," Byrne said. It was an old story on Earth. "So, they may believe that we'll find a place to park the Fleet for a while, and the capital ships mount some more strikes?" Allen asked. "That is what Septimus pointed out," Croft replied. "And so did my senior analyst. There's this as well: If they do shift for a yahren, every defensive station they build is one less cruiser or larger ship-and thanks to their database, we do know they had larger ships in their Fleet inventory, and will build those as facilities become available." "The larger ships date from the war with the Ke'zar, correct?" Tigh asked. Croft nodded. "Yes, Colonel, and they do have the plans for these. It's just a question of when they are able to start construction. The need for materials for all of this may very well mean that they do expand within their sector, and in a short period of time. Of course, it can be slowed by spreading the existing Fleet thin, trying to cover against strikes that aren't coming." Xaviar then asked, "And who would be their targets?" Croft called up a display of the sector just cleared. "Here, Sire," he said, highlighting three systems. "First, it's the system we parked the Fleet at, and encountered the smuggler Picaja. That system, as you'll recall, Sire, was devastated by a nuclear war." "One that may have been...provoked by the Risik," Adama noted, recalling the survey of that world while the Fleet was there. "Command Centurion Moray," the Commander said, nodding at Moray, "did remind us that the Risik could land on that world once the fallout levels were acceptable." "Commander," Moray nodded-much to the surprise of most of those present. Seeing a Cylon adopting human-like traits was still...unnerving. "Continuing on," Croft said. "If you'll recall, there were two races that we bypassed during our detour to Ne'Chak. One is at the late Bronze or early Iron Age level, and the other has just discovered atomic power. Both are easy pickings." Apollo recognized it. "The first race? All the Risik have to do is show themselves as Gods, and that's that. They don't have to fire a shot." "That's right, Captain," Croft said. "And the second? These people fight amongst themselves a lot, even more than Earth's people have, and a nuclear war might just be inevitable." "And the Risik repeat what they do with that other devastated system," said Moray. "It is logical from their viewpoint." "Those bastards," Petty Officer Clemens hissed on Constellation. "They get what they want, and hardly a shot's fired." "It is ruthless," Melnea added. "And effective. Again, they will present themselves to the survivors as their saviors. With the survivors doing anything to please their 'rescuers.'" "That would be....unfortunate," Adama said. "But the survivors would be in no position to resist, nor those who are much more primitive than the Risik. Anything else, Major?" "Yes, sir," said Croft. "Unless someone like the Ziklagi, and that's unlikely due to their ongoing civil war, or the Cylon Empire, comes along and stops the Risik, they will do what they set out to do. With one possible exception: the Ke'zar." Starbuck, on the Base Ship, saw it. "And those people might just decide that some unfinished business needs to be taken care of." "If that happens," Captain Ashby said from Adelaide. "We'll be shaking their hands and thanking them." "Count me in that," Captain Zhukov added. "If they blast the Risik Fleet to pieces, and do whatever is needed to take the Capital? I'm not complaining at all." "Same here," said Byrne. Pelias added, "Nor would I, Commander." "I think no one here, or even the other Council members, would disagree with that, Sire," Adama replied. He turned to Croft. "Is that all, Major?" "No, sir. Septimus told me that the Risik are likely to take out their anger at our actions on those they decide to subjugate. They may blast several cities on a world-even one that doesn't resist-to show they mean business, and it vents some of that anger," said Croft. "Punitive operations," Byrne noticed. "Not that unusual on Earth for an occupying power to do just that: especially for an empire needing to save face, to show a conquered people they're still strong, and don't even think about rebelling." Jaws dropped at that. Again, the Risik would be demonstrating that they were just as ruthless as the Cylons. "Not good," Xaviar said after a centon's silence. "No, Sire, it's not," Adama noted. "Sometimes the facts, as harsh and brutal as they are, speak for themselves. Major, anything else?" "There's one other note. My analysts and Septimus both came to this conclusion: the Risik may very well-as their resources permit-play the various parties in the Ziklagi Civil War off against each other." Pelias nodded. "Because the longer that goes on, the less of a threat the Ziklagi become to the Risik-and their other neighbors in the process," the Sire noted. "Exactly, Sire," Adama said. "Sarah?" The academician nodded. "It is an old story, Commander, and there is also the possibility that when the war does end, there is no clear-cut victor. A number of smaller states may emerge, each claiming to be the rightful government of the Empire." "Which serves the Risiks' purposes, since that means they won't have much to worry about from that quarter," Baltar observed. "Especially if the successor states start fighting among themselves." "It does," Adama said, maintaining his diplomatic outlook. "Unfortunately, we'll never know which outcome presented itself." He turned to Croft, "Is that it for now? "Yes, sir," Croft said. "Good. Well done to your FIU people, and please pass that along." "Thank you, sir, and I'll do just that." "Now, then, an event that we've all been looking forward to. In two days, we'll have the Welcome-Aboard Party aboard the Rising Star," Adama announced. "Something we've all been looking forward do, Commander," Byrne said. "Now that these...scum are in our wake, literally and figuratively." "I'll second that, Commander," Allen added. Pelias nodded. "For which we are all grateful. Has Chief Zeibert been informed?" "He has, Sire," Adama replied. "He has told me that all preparations are complete, and all he needed to know was when." He nodded at Melnea. "And this will not just be an opportunity for us to get to know our Earth brothers and sisters better, but also for our Risik travelers to learn that we are not the people their propaganda has made us all out to be-whether from the Colonies or from Earth." "I have spoken with them since yesterday's engagement," Melnea said. "I have invited them to the party, and all would be honored to attend." "Very good," Tinia said. "We can learn a lot from each other, and it will be an enjoyable evening for all." "It will, Siress," Captain Ashby replied from Adelaide. "Just as long as those....slugs from your IFB are kept on a leash." There was some laughter, both in the Ward Room, and on the monitors, at that remark. "Or better yet," Lieutenant Sanderson added. "Far enough away that we can ignore their shouted questions." "A pity the no-contact order expired with the Tribunal," Xaviar noted, a tinge of disappointment in his voice. "That was bound to happen sooner or later," Adama nodded. "Don't worry about IFB. There will be extra Security on hand, and I'll have a talk with Heller tomorrow to remind him." "Good to know, Commander," Byrne said. "We'll all be there." "Same from Adelaide," Allen added. "And a night that we will never forget will be on us," Adama said. "Before we adjourn on that happy note, a reminder that we're entering what is, even to the Risik, relatively unknown territory. Though I'm relaxing the Rules of Engagement, we'll have to be vigilant, for who knows what's out here?" "Understood, Adama," Baltar replied. "I take it the old First Contact Protocols are now in place?" "They are, and if we do encounter this unknown race the new Risik documents refer to? We'll make every effort to make peaceful contact, as with the Eireneans." "Yes, Commander," Tigh noted. "Very good. Is there anything else before we adjourn?" Adama asked. He saw Pelias nod. "Sire?" The young Sire stood, as if giving a formal presentation. "Commander, everyone. It will truly be a night of celebration. First, we will no longer have the Risik to concern us, as they are now well and truly in our wake, and with each passing Centar, the gap grows wider and wider. Second, our Risik travelers can begin to build new lives in the Fleet, as they are discovering that we, along with our Earth brothers and sisters, are not the 'barbarians and heretics' their propaganda has been calling us. And most importantly, our Earth brothers and sisters can well and truly celebrate their liberation, as they begin their journey home to Earth. It may not be, as Father Fisher once said, the Earth they left, or the Earth that Captain Byrne and Commander Allen left, but it is still home. A home that we all hope to join them at when we do get there." He then resumed his seat. "Well said, Pelias," said Xaviar. "Indeed, Sire," Adama said. "Is there anything else?" When no one else said anything, he added, " Very well, then. We're adjourned." Two nights later, the Main Dining Hall on the Rising Star was the place to be in the Fleet. After the regular diners had finished and left, things were made ready for the main event of the evening. For the Welcome-Aboard Party was on the night's agenda. The Earthers were no strangers to the Rising Star, having been aboard to get their wardrobes taken care of, but now, many of them had to manually put their jaws back into place, for the ship was, as one of them put it, "The QE 2 in space, only several times larger." Although they came from a spacefaring society, the ship's amenities were a surprise to the Risik refugees , for their own passenger liners were much smaller, and less richly appointed. And thanks to Sire Pelias and several other members of the Council, when they got to their tables, gift cards for the Shopping Promenade had been placed on their seats, so that they could enjoy themselves on their next visit to the liner. For the Colonials, it was an interesting sight to see their new friends. The Earthers were dressed either in military dress uniform, civilian suits and ties, or, as the women were, in dresses. And to the delight of many, the parents had brought their children. Seeing the youngest travelers in the Fleet, who were the most precious cargo aboard ship, was a delight. While the Risik refugees were dressed in their own attire, which was a stiff-necked suit for the men, and a gown for the women-and though Melnea had come to the Fleet with only the clothes on her back, she had been outfitted by Aurelia in her shop thanks to Sire Pelias, who had also taken care of the Maalabaian woman's needs-for the spacer wear from her time on the late and unlamented Picaja's ship was all she had. There was one other guest, and this one was a surprise to many, but not to Commander Adama or Siress Tinia: Ayesha. It was only fair to both that the BaseShip should be represented, and though Baltar knew he would be taking his life into his own hands had he accepted, Ayesha was more than willing, and eagerly accepted the invitation, showing up in an evening gown. In the pre-dinner reception, Captain Byrne, in his Navy Dress Blues, came up to Commander Adama and the Siress. "Commander," he nodded. "And Siress." "Captain," Adama said. "Things seem to be going well." He gestured to the crowd, where the invited guests-Warriors, Bridge Officers, members of the Council, and other lucky guests, were mingling with the new arrivals, both Earther and Risik. While Academican Sarah was talking with the Maalabaian woman, who had also, like Melnea, accepted a position on her staff. "They certainly are, Commander," Byrne replied. "And the military personnel seem to be, as they say, Siress, 'talking shop'." "While the spouses are talking with the other spouses," Tinia noted. "More proof that some things are indeed universal." She nodded at where one of the Risik couples was talking with Josh and Natalie from the Constellation. "And so far, they seem to be getting along with the one who was a former guard." Byrne glanced around, and noted Fredryk and Marta, the Dutch couple, talking with Jaden and his fiancee, Misha. "No hard feelings, Siress. He was a draftee, doing a job he didn't want to do. Just do what was necessary to keep from being noticed, finish out his time in service, and go home." "Indeed," Tinia said. "And I also see some of the former prisoners talking with the Risik civilians." She nodded in the direction of Petty Officer Clemens, who was talking with another couple. "You were an officer's slave?" Kama-lan, the wife of the reporter, Samlik, asked. He had written a piece critical of the priests,which had somehow slipped past the censors, and both he and his wife had gone underground, hoping to get off the Capital. "Yes," Clemens replied. "No matter what he did to me, I made a promise to myself that one way or another, he would pay." "And he did," Samllik nodded. "Melnea has told us about the Tribunal. Much different than our proceedings, where the defendant is presumed guilty, and has to show his or her innocence." "The Colonials made sure he got more rights than the bastard ever gave me," Clemens said. "But....hopefully he got what was coming to him." Both Risik nodded. "Yes," Kama replied. "Death via wild beasts would be far more preferable than from the State." She knew that Lemeshik's fate in that case would not be pleasant, and that he would scream loud and long before receiving his official punishment. That, she was sure. Her father had been in the military, and knew full well the fate of those who had...embarassed the State. "If the chance had ever come up, though? After what he did to me? I would have tried to kill him." "But you would have been sacrificing your own life," Samlik pointed out. "At least I would've died trying," Clemens said. "Better that than living out my life far from home as a slave. Our military's Code of Conduct says that a prisoner has the duty to try to escape. And I would have tried." "And what will you do when you get home?" Samlik asked, still the reporter. He had, in fact, thought about joining IFB. Though after hearing just how despised Zara and Zed were, he was thinking of starting a new media service, where one wrote thoughtful articles, instead of sensationalist pieces. Sire Pelias, in fact, was encouraging him to do so. "Get my military back pay, look up any relatives I have left, buy a house, and just sit back and enjoy life," said Clemens. "Though there's one other thing: I will never take freedom for granted ever again." "Nor will your friends." "No." Then came the dinner, and to the Earthers,many of the menu items were very familiar. Some of the ingredients might have had different names, but seafood was still seafood, poultry was still poultry, and beef or pork was still the same. The dishes may have also had different names, but they were still very familiar. Even if, as it turned out, things were a little too rich for some. After the dinner, it was time for a little speech or two. Though Commander Adama knew that the new arrivals weren't in the mood for any kind of long-winded oratory, a few words were in order as he got up to a lectern. "I know you're all in a happy mood this evening, and not interested in the slightest to listen to a long speech, but a few words of welcome are in order. You have all come a long way in a short amount of time, having come from captivity to freedom, and starting a journey, that, with God's blessing, will take you home. As one of yours, Father Fisher, has said, 'It may not be the Earth we left, or the Earth that Captain Byrne and Commander Allen left, but we will get home.' And so you will. "While the civilians among you are still trying to figure out what to do now, for the military personnel among you, it has been an easier time of adjustment, as they have put the uniform back on, and some of you have even put your training to use recently," said Adama, referring to the boarding of the Risik Scout. "As for our Risik travelers? I, along with the Council, hope that your experiences over the past few days have shown that those of us from the Colonies, and Earth, are not the 'heretics and infidels' that your propaganda has made us out to be. And when we do reach Earth? Many of her nations welcome immigrants,and you will have the opportunity to settle there." "So, once again, welcome aboard the Fleet. Enjoy the rest of the evening, and simply, have fun. But before that, I believe we have time for a little ceremony. Captain Byrne?" Captain Byrne left his table and came to the lectern. "Thank you, Commander. There are three among you who deserve some recognition, and we might just as well take care of that on this happy occasion. First, Captain Ian Ashby, of the British Army, step forward and be recognized." Captain Ashby got up from the table he shared with Commmander Allen, Kaylesha, and came up to the lectern. "Sir!" "For all you did to keep the cohesion and morale of the prisoners together, both on the Homeworld and in the camp, Captain, as an American, I can't give you a U.S. Military decoration. But as the ranking Earth military officer in the Fleet, I can give you this. We'll sort this out when we get home, but, as far as Commander Adama, Commander Allen, or I am concerned? You're now Major Ashby. With all the privlieges and responsibilities of that rank, as of now." Byrne held out his hand. "Congratulations, Major." "Sir!" Ashby said, snapping a salute, then he about-faced, and went back to his table, to the cheers of the crowd. "And next," Byrne continued. "It was finding a Risik ship, and during the battle, boarding it, that led to the raid being planned and launched. When we found her, she gave invaluable assistance in the planning and preparation for the raid, and you all saw her for the first time in a year when you got off the shuttle on Galactica. So....Helicopter Aircrewman Third Class Jessica Clemens, front and center!" "Uh-oh.." Ensign Adele said at the table she shared with Jen, Sire Pelias, the Captain, Jessica and her friend Denise, Ensign Popova, and Sergeant Wagner. Clemens went up to the lectern. "Sir!" Byrne nodded, then he began. "Petty Officer Clemens, it was your intelligence and other assistance in premission planning that helped to a large degree for the Ne'Chak Raid to be successfully executed. If we were home, I would be recommending you for a Navy Commendation Award, if not a Bronze Star, which, for those who don't know, is the fourth-highest decoration in the U.S. Navy. However, just as with Captain, now Major, Ashby, so with you. As of now, you are a Petty Officer Second Class, with all of the privlieges and responsibilities of that rank." She smiled. "Thank you, Sir!" "That's not all. Commander?" Byrne gestured to Adama. "Petty Officer," Adama said. "Since your country allows foreign decorations to be worn, and both Captain Byrne and Sergeant Wagner have received this award as a result of their assistance during the Il Fadim Crisis. And so thus with you. It is my honor to present you with the Colonial Fleet Commendation Award." He presented Clemens with the case containing the medal and a ribbon, just as with Byrne and Wagner. "Thank you, Sir!" "Congratulations, Petty Officer." "Sir." She then went back to her table, to a standing ovation, and her table mates noticed that Clemens was turning a little red from embarassment. "Commander, everyone, there is one more individual who needs to be recognized this evening. She went on the raid, and not only settled an old score with the.....Commandant, she helped secure the prisoners' barracks before the main operation began. And later, she dealt with the Chief Guard, and as the former prisoners began to settle into their new lives, she has continued to assist them with the adjustment process." "'Dealt with the Chief Guard?'" Lieutenant Sanderson asked. "That's an understatement." "She took him all the way out," Airman Reynolds added. "When she shot him to pieces." "All the way out of the gene pool, you mean," Jen said. "That, too." "Now, Staff Sergeant Lauren Wagner, front and center!" Byrne said. "Your turn," Clemens turned to Wagner. Lauren took a deep breath, then got up and headed to the lectern. "Sir." "Staff Sergeant Wagner," Bryne began. "For oustanding performance of assigned duties aboard Constellation, and your actions during the planning and execution of the Raid on Ne'Chak. On my authority, I'm promoting you to Technical Sergeant, United States Air Force, with all the privlieges and responsibilities of that rank, effective immediately. We'll sort it out with the Air Force when we get home, but for now..." "Thank you, Sir!" "And no doubt your friends aboard Constellation, and Adelaide as well, want to reward you for taking out the Chief Guard. For the universe is a far better place without that insect." At the table where Croft, Castor, and several SF Troopers were with their girlfriends, Croft nodded approvingly. "She gave him an express ticket to Hades." However, Lieutenant Sanderson observed, "I've only got one regret about that." At their table, heads turned. "What do you mean, Amy?" Jen asked. She had heard so many horror stories from the camp. She took a sip of wine and said, "After what he did to all of us? He didn't scream long or loud enough." "It is, sir," Wagner said. "Just don't drink it all at once," Byrne joked. "Congratulations once again, Tech Sergeant." "Sir," As she went back to her table, there was another round of applause. "And on that happy note, enjoy the rest of the evening, and have fun," said Byrne. As the evening went on, several Council members noticed how poorly Lydia was faring with the new arrivals, who were giving her the polite minimum, and that Captain Byrne gave her the same treatment, which left Lydia quite confused. "It looks like Lydia's finding out that Captain Byrne knows her full story," Xaviar noted. "Quite," Pelias said. "And on a similar note, our unlamented former colleagues would be, as Captain Byrne likes to say, 'freaking out' at the presence of so many Earthers and the Risik dissidents in the Fleet." "They would be going through the bulkheads at the thought," Xaviar laughed. "At least they're someone else's problem now." "If the convicts haven't killed them off already." At a bay window, Sergeant Wagner was standing and watching the stars go by, as the Fleet continued on course. She had spent some time with Castor, who hadn't yet asked her out again, but it was just a question of when. Then she went to the window and enjoyed the view. She was sipping her own glass of wine when Jen and Jessica came up. "Penny for your thoughts," Jessica said. "If you had one," Lauren laughed. "Well, since you asked, our Risik pals. Goodbye and good riddance. For a long while, anyway." "I'll drink to that," Jessica said, raising her own glass. "And here," Jen said, even if the glass was just ice water. And the party went on for a few more centars, and when it did finally wrap up, everyone felt a good evening had been had by all. Epilogue: A sectar later, in Colonial Time, a meeting was taking place in the Risik Supreme Leader's Conference Room. Instead of the full Council, there was only the Leader, his High Priest, Security Director Iakir, and both Admiral Triligan and General Arkom. And Professor Tsu-lan. And the others could see for themselves that the Leader was less than pleased. "So, the Colonial Fleet has left our sphere of influence?" The Leader asked, a menacing tone to his voice. "Yes, My Lord," Admiral Triligan replied. "They have encountered the Eireneans, and have picked up their course for Te'rea. Vice-Admiral Triligan reports that debris from several of our ships-the Patrol Cruiser Nemesis, the Exploratory Cruiser Tracker, and the Security Pursuit Cruiser PC-3, has been found. And analysis of the debris has found traces of both Colonial and Cylon weapons having been used." "Either those ships' commanders disobeyed orders not to engage-" Iakir started to say. "Or Adama destroyed them to prevent their escaping with a sighting report," General Arkom finished. "Either option is possible," Admiral Triligan replied. "With no buoys found, and it is likely that Adama has either recovered them, or had them destroyed, it is hard to say for sure." "Very well," the Leader growled. He turned to Iakir. "Has any trace been found of the three traitorous officers? Those whose...negligence enabled these atrocities to take place?" Iakir nodded. "More than that, My Lord." He nodded to an aide, and three very bedraggled figures, all in irons, were dragged into the room by Security Officers. "Lemeshik, Raduztak, and Tsernavia. All have been interrogated by Star Force Intelligence and by General Security." And all three showed visible signs of those....interrogations. "How were they found?" Si-um, the High Priest, asked. "A Fleet Scout found them. They were apprehended by the Strike Cruiser Steadfast-which is Vice-Admiral Triligan's flagship, and interrogated there, before being handed over to General Security," Iakir replied calmly. "They have all told the same story." The Leader nodded, then stood up in a rage. "You have already been portrayed as Martyrs to the State," he declared. "Before receiving your official punishment, do you have anything to say for yourselves?" He glared at the ex-Commandant. "Tsernavia?" "Only that I have done my duty to the State," the former Commandant replied proudly. He knew what was coming, and yet, he refused to grovel or beg. "At least we have copies of all of your files on Te'rea and Te'rans," Iakir replied. "If you had been found before being declared a martyr...." "And yet," General Arkom went on. "Your security measures did not anticipate an attack from the outside. That is criminal negligence." Tsernavia glared back at the General. "I had no reason to expect such an attack." "A good officer anticipates that the unexpected may occur, and makes the necessary preparations," the General countered. "You did not." "And that is reason enough," the Leader added. "Raduztak. Your negligence in this matter helped enable the attack." Raduztak also knew what was coming. "'Negligence?' I fought to ensure the defenses of the colony were strengthened, and yet, I was told not to make any further requests. They were deemed 'unnecessary.' I demand to speak with Minister Ilbate-" "Minister Ilbate is on Ne'Chak, cleaning up the mess you left behind, thanks to the Colonials," The Leader growled. "He has concurred in establishing your negligence in this." "Then I have nothing more to say, other than I have served the State to the best of my ability." "Which wasn't enough," Si-um replied. "Quite," The Leader said. He then glared icily at Lemeshik. "Lemeshik. If not for your having that Te'rean bitch aboard your ship as a comfort woman, in defiance of all regulations on such matters, this turn of events would not have happened. Do you have anything to say?" "Only-" "Your father-who is a true Martyr of the State, despite your family's....activities-is not here to defend or protect you," Triligan reminded him. "And we have considerable evidence of your own criminal activities prior to this, this....atrocity." "All of which was provided by the Colonials to two people you know," Iakir said. Commander Morovik and Lieutenant Resha came into the room. Morovik spoke first. "You have dishonored your uniform and your office. Now you will pay the full measure." "Traitor!" Lemeshik yelled, trying to stand, and the guard held him in place. "Who is the traitor?" Resha added. "One whose family's criminal activities have subverted the State would qualify." "Your father did redeem himself aboard his flagship," Triligan reminded the ex-commander. "At least he died fighting. You, however...." "Our family is not-" Lemeshik began. "Was not," the Leader corrected him. "Yes, there are others. But you were caught, and proof of your family's subversion and threats against innocent parties is enough. Thanks to the Colonials and their penetration of your ship's computer." Lemeshik spat at the Leader-something virtually unheard of. "All of the ship's files were compromised-" Iakir growled. "Showing that your ship was not following Star Force Computer Security Protocols." "Their computers are more advanced-" "Yes, but still, you were the commander on the scene, and thus responsible," Triligan said. "My Lord, I recommend that all three receive the Most Severe Measure of Punishment."" General Arkom nodded. "I agree." "As do I," Iakir added. The Leader turned to Si-um, who merely nodded. Then he turned back to the three. "You have all been found guilty of State Treason, Criminal Negligence, and Dereliction of Duty. Director, see that the sentence is carried out." Instead of dragging all three out, one of Iakir's bodyguards simply walked behind the three, and shot each one in the back of the head. Once the bodies had been removed-and they would be secretly disposed of, the Leader stood. "Let us proceed to new business. There are three worlds in our sector in immediate need of pacification and civilization, are there not?" "Yes, My Lord," Admiral Triligan replied. "One that has suffered a nuclear war, one that is at the early Iron Age level of technology-" "Those two should be easy. We should not have to fire a shot," Si-um said. "Never underestimate an enemy, My Lord," General Arkom reminded the priest. "If we present ourselves properly to the survivors on that first world, they will do anything to help us if they believe they are being rescued." "Indeed," Iakir said. "The second world? There may be some who resist, but the majority will fall into line." Si-um added, "Especially if our forces are presenting themselves as Gods from the Heavens." "Very good," the Leader said. "And the third?" "They have recently discovered atomic power, and I'm not talking for power generation," Iakir replied. "It's weapons. And if we do attack, our forces should expect nuclear attack in return." "We won't," General Arkom said confidently. "If we strike fast and hard, with the Star Force's support? They won't have the chance to use their weapons." The Leader nodded approvingly. "Then do so. By the end of the day tomorrow? I want those plans submitted to me for approval. Over the coming days, we will carry them out. With those resources, we will begin to rebuild, and grow stronger. It may take a generation or two. Or whatever it takes, but the Risik State will keep its promises. We shall civilize those we encounter, return to the Home World and reclaim it. Then we will take good care of the Ke'zar once and for all! Before dealing with the Egyrnians, Gut'lans, and especially the Te'reans and their Colonial friends. They were slaves to us before, and shall be again!" "When our troops walk their soil and through their shattered cities? They will thank us for doing so. As the scrolls pronounce, so it shall be," Si-um added. "So it shall," the Leader finished. "Thank you, everyone. Professor, would you remain?" After the others had left, leaving only the Leader and the Professor. "My Lord?" "Professor, I appreciate your honesty," the Leader said. "There are too many yes-men in the State, and a breath of honesty is always appreciated. I have read your report. While you cannot estimate when the Colonials will arrive at Te'rea, you do say how long it will be before they become a threat." "Yes, My Lord," the Professor nodded. "Within five years of their arrival, whenever that is, the world will be able to have a minimum defensive capability. Ten? The system will be a fortress. At the same time, they will have a minimum capability for power projection. In twenty-five? It may be a question of when they come for us." The Leader nodded grimly. That news was hard to take, but it had to be put before him. "Professor, I thank you for your candor in all of this. You will no longer need to worry about money, such is my gratitude. I understand you and your family live in a small apartment near the University, correct?" "Yes, My Lord." "No longer. A country home is more appropriate to my new Advisor on Te'rean Affairs," the Leader said warmly. "You and your family will be well taken care of, and the new position will not interfere too much with your teaching at the University, as that is your passion." "My Lord-I..Thank you, My Lord," Tsu-lan bowed. What the Professor didn't know was that the "home" was the confiscated estate of the late Admiral Beshik. After the Professor left, the Leader stared at the imagery of the destruction of Ne'Chak, the estimates of the time needed to rebuild and the resources needed-all of which were beginning to flow-and the star chart showing the course to Te'rea that the Colonial Fleet would likely follow. All of which was marked, "State Top Secret-Leader Eyes Only." Then he slammed his fist on his desk. "One day, Te'reans. You and your Colonial friends will pay. When our troops walk your soil, through your shattered cities, and your leaders submit to us, you will remember what it was to be a subject race." The Leader then got up and poured himself a cup of wine. "I hope. For if the Professor is right...." No more need be said. The Te'reans would be coming their way, and the outcome if the Te'reans were using Colonial-derived technology wouldn't be pleasant. Still.... "We will do what it takes, and what we can. The Scrolls pronounce it, and so.." And yet, the price of failure was something he wasn't willing to contemplate. Not yet. For that meant the end of the Risik State. And that, he would not allow. Fleeing the Cylon Tyrrany, the last battlestar, Galactica, leads a rag-tag fugitive fleet on a lonely quest. A shining planet, known as Earth.