GALACTIC MADNESS By Kelly [Adamskm@aol.com] April,1998 "This is madness! I see no reason to continue traipsing through the universe in search of some mythological planet, endangering all our lives. We are passing many habitable planets any of which would make a suitable home for our people." The portly Virgon stands confidently in front of the Quorum of Twelve. His fleshy face becoming flush with the vehemence of his speech. He regards the Quorum intently, bringing his lush red cape across his body, like an actor finishing a soliloquy. The Quorum, twelve elderly statesmen, one from each of the twelve worlds, listen with respect to Councilor Dumas's speech. At the head of the long polished table Commander Adama takes a deep breath, leaning forward in his high-back chair. He clasps his hands in front of him. His face etched with the lines of age and responsibility, but his eyes sparkle with an inner strength and intelligence. His mind drifts momentarily, thinking he needs to spend more time with his future grandson, Boxey. This brings a faint smile to his face. Adama chooses his words carefully, like a concerned father talking to an arrant child. "I know everyone is tired and would love to get off these battered and cramped ships and start a new life. But to settle on a planet now would mean the end of us all." Adama pauses a moment. The small oval room muffles the quiet murmurs of the elders. "Any planet we settle will take years to build up the defenses. The Cylons would surely discover us." Adama stares sternly at Councilor Dumas who turns his head in disgust, again wrapping his crimson cape protectively across his body. Adama continues unperturbed by the Councilor's attitude. "Our only chance is finding Earth and hope they are technologically advanced enough to fight the Cylons." The Quorum members mumble and nod amongst themselves in agreement. Councilor Yuni of Aeriana, the only female on the council and the only one besides Adama who has earned any measure of respect gracefully stands. She addresses Adama directly. "We know you're right Adama, but many people agree with Councilor Dumas. We've lost our homes. Many have lost family and friends." She bows her head in a thoughtful pause. When she continues her voice is sadden. "The uncertainty of our lives now is very frustrating and disheartening for many." The Councilor turns to speak to the rest of the council her voice rising slightly, but remaining steady. "But left with the alternative I vote we continue to follow President Adama. He has protected us and got us this far I see no reason not to continue." She bows her head and quietly sits. The rest of the Quorum nod in agreement, all except Councilor Dumas who vehemently declares, "You're all fools!" The Councilor stands abruptly slamming the palms of his hands down upon the table glaring straight at Adama with unmistable disdain. Adama calmly stands. "You have the right to your opinion Councilor Dumas as does everyone else. But, the council has spoken. I must now attend to other affairs so this fleet can continue traipsing as you put it, through the universe, if you'll excuse me." A faint smile flashes across Adama's face as he turns and leaves, officially ending the session. The Quorum members file out in pairs, some talking quietly between themselves. As the last of the Quorum members exit the council chambers Councilor Dumas stands and walks over to the view screen. The star lit sky interrupted by a Gemini barge cruising alongside the Galactica. The Councilor gazes dispassionately at the beaten relic which was never meant to travel through endless space. He contemplates his fate if they were ever to reach this fabled planet Earth. I'll just be another insignificant subordinate amongst thousands, and that is unacceptable. Worse we could end up traveling around the universe forever living out our lives on these damnable ships. Dumas clenches his hand into a fist and strikes the viewport. Being the only surviving member of his planet's government he has grown accustomed to the finer things, like three square meals a day. The rare libation of ambrosia with the added company of beautiful and predisposed females. Even though their worlds were destroyed people still bowed and respected his prestige. He was a symbol of their previous lives something that they were not yet ready to give up. If they found Earth he would be swallowed up in the masses. Forced to comply to that planet's government, there would probably be no place for anyone on the Council, except of course, President Adama. He would become the emissary between the fleet and Earth. The Councilor continues to stare at the antiquated barge and the vast black space which surrounds them. He is not willing to give up his position of power, at least not without a fight. ***** Apollo and Starbuck enter the Command Center making way for a large, ungainly man who rushes past them, head down. A momentary uneasiness flows through Apollo and he turns to look after the stranger who quickly exits the bridge. He shrugs as his attention is diverted to his father who is in a conversation with Colonel Tigh in front of the navigation console. Starbuck pauses at the communication console to talk to a young, female ensign. Apollo wrinkles his brow in puzzlement as he observes the sober expression on his father's face. He steps up alongside Colonel Tigh hearing him exclaim, "So sir, we must act quickly, time is of the essence." Without even looking at his father Apollo knows that his father's left eye brow has raised slightly in contemplation. "Okay Colonel, make the necessary arrangements I'll take care of the rest," Adama replies. The Colonel nods in acknowledgment smiles at Apollo and walks off. Adama takes a sip of the hot coffee he holds and smiles at his son. Apollo is one of the youngest and best pilot in the fleet. A father couldn't be more proud of a son. "Commander, is something wrong?" Apollo asks, refraining from family familiarity while in uniform. He maintains a straight military posture in front of the bridge crew. Starbuck looks up from his conversation and excuses himself to move up alongside Apollo as Adama replies, "Yes, Colonel Tigh was just informing me of a situation that has arisen." Adama takes another sip of his still steaming coffee. "The Picon barge, Bright Star, is losing power and there is nothing our engineers can do, the ship is just to old. We are reducing speed so she can keep up." Adama stares out the view port and looks upon his rag-tag fleet, 1500 battered ships of all sizes and shapes relying on him for their safety. "Colonel Tigh has people preparing to salvage her and siphon off the remaining Tylium. There are about 200 people who will need new accommodations. I need you to assign several teams to begin searching the larger ships for possible occupation. This must be done quickly. The engineers give us about three days before things start getting dangerous." "There goes our R&R," quips Starbuck. Without looking or losing his military bearing Apollo shoots an elbow into his friend's side. Adama has to smile at the young lieutenant. Starbuck is like a son to him, helping to fill the void left by the death of his youngest son, Zac. Apollo and Starbuck are best of friends, but couldn't be more different. Where Starbuck is outgoing and a bit devious, trailing close to insubordinate, at times. Apollo is very controlled and serious, a younger version of his father. Together they seem to balance each other out or at least keep each other from being killed. "Don't worry, sir, we'll find a place for everyone. Come on Starbuck," Apollo replies eagerly. The two turn and start to walk out. Starbuck gives the cute ensign a conspiratory wink before exiting the bridge. As Starbuck and Apollo march down the main corridor Apollo glances over and mockingly remarks, "You love living on the edge, don't you?" A notoriously innocent look appears on Starbuck's handsome visage. "Whatever do you mean, Apollo?" "Don't give me that innocent felgercarb. One of these days your amorist antics are going to get you in real trouble. And I won't be there to rescue you." "Apollo, how can you say that. I'm a complete gentleman, an open book. And what do you mean rescue me?" Starbuck states sounding a trifle indignant. Apollo halts in the middle of the corridor turning to look the young, blond lieutenant in the eye. "What about Cassiopeia and Athena?" Apollo questions with a knowing smile. The look of one caught with his hand in the cookie jar quickly flashes across Starbuck's boyish face as he answers, "Er..well both women know I'm not ready to settle down yet." Apollo smiles at his gregarious friend. "You better hope they do, this isn't one of your card games. You could find yourself floating in space." Apollo claps his hand upon Starbuck's shoulder as the two continue down the unadorned corridor, discussing the Picon's situation. When Starbuck and Apollo reach the turbo lift they stand off to one side, apart from the four young people waiting for the lift. A young, black pilot, his uniform distinguishing him as a member of Red Squadron, suddenly appears from an adjacent corridor. "Hey you two, I've been looking all over for you. How about a game of triad? I'm ready to kick your butt Starbuck!" "Sorry Boomer, we have an assignment," Apollo answers. Next to Starbuck, Boomer is the best pilot in the fleet and one that Apollo would want next to him in a fight. "Well then I'll let you two get to it." Boomer turns hoping to escape the inevitable. "Hold it, Boomer!" Apollo orders. "Frak." Boomer murmurs under his breath. He closes his eyes and drops his head. He turns to face Apollo, his hands out in protest. "Ah, Apollo, come on, this is the first break I've had in five duty cycles." "Sorry Boom, we need to find accommodations for 200 people. Find Jolly and the rest of the squadron. Pair them up and have them search the larger ships. Starbuck and I will begin searching the Galactica." Starbuck places a friendly arm across the black pilot's shoulders. "You should be grateful Boom, this saved you from the disgrace of me beating you at Triad." Boomer shrugs Starbuck's arm off his shoulder giving him a good-natured sneer. "Okay, but this is under protest," Boomer replies as he turns and walks away in annoyance. "Noted." Apollo smiles at the dark warrior's back. ***** Adama enters his quarters, stiffly removing his long fleet jacket and throwing it over a chair. An enormous bolt of pain goes through his head. Bright dots flash across his vision in sync. Carefully he lays his body down on his bed hoping to vanquish the pain. Adama closes his eyes, flashes of pink and blues explode in his head then swirl together in a cacophony of color. Adama doesn't know how long he slept, but he suddenly finds himself sitting on the edge of his bed. The pain having subsided, but his head still felt like someone was humming a morbid tune inside his brain. He senses the presence of someone in the dimly lit room. "Who's there?" His voice coming out hoarse as he peers into the darkness. A voice comes out of the shadows followed by the incandescent form of a woman. "Don't you recognize your own wife, Adama?" Adama's eyes open wide, the color leaving his face, as a lithe woman comes into view. "Ila, it can't be," he whispers staring at the radiant white-haired woman in flowing chiffon robes. "Why, because I'm dead," she answers sharply, her green eyes seem to pierce his heart. He doesn't remember them being so vibrant. "Are you sure, Adama, were you sure when you left Caprica, left me to face the Cylons." The form halts several feet away, still in the shadows, but near enough for Adama to recognize the face of his wife. Adama tries to reject what he's seeing and hearing, but it's all to real. "No, you were dead. I saw the house, in ruin, you were there." Adama shakes his head as he stares at the form of Ila. His hands holding onto the edge of the bed as if trying to save himself from falling into a dark abyss. "Was I? You left me behind to be tortured and put to death," Ila states angrily, her face contorted in a way Adama had never seen before, even during their forty years of marriage. Adama doesn't know what to say he can only stare at his wife, remembering. Finally he is able to loosen his tongue, his voice sounding distant and hoarse. "I'm sorry, I thought you were dead. You know I wouldn't of left you if I thought you were alive." "You left me to die, Adama." Ila's finger comes up pointing accusingly at the tormented Adama. His head starts to throb again. He manages to bring his hands up to his ears trying to block out the sound of Ila's incriminating words. "Nooooo!" Adama cries then crumples to the floor. The womanly figure melts away. ***** Adama steps onto the bridge stopping just inside. He stands and stares, suppressing a shiver. It seems like a darkness hovers just above him throwing a ominous shadow over his usually lucid visage. A young ensign brushes past the esteemed Commander. Adama's arm shoots out grabbing the ensign by the shoulder. The ensign's boyish face turns to meet Adama's. For a moment it seems that Adama is lost in thought then he aggressively blurts out to the bewildered ensign. "I want the navigational reports now!" The neophyte ensign wants to shrink into the deck as he tries to answer the glaring Commander. "Ah, yes..yes, sir.." he stutters. Colonel Tigh raises his head, breaking from some reports he was scanning. A confused frown on his dark face as he stares at the enraged Commander. Adama seems to have aged ten yahrens over night. His uniform, uncharacteristically rumpled like it had been slept in. His normally bright eyes showing a lack of sleep. Colonel Tigh steps up to the Commander and keeping his voice calm and steady murmurs, "Commander." Adama continues to berate the ensign ignorant or uncaring of the Colonel's presence. "Those reports should of been on my desk first thing this morning!" The Colonel raises his voice. "Adama!" Adama shoots the Colonel a look of disgust and doesn't answer. The Colonel waves the terrified ensign away, much to his relief. Tigh lowers his voice. "What is going on, Adama?" Adama's eyes dart from side to side as if searching or watching for something, he finally fixes them on the ebony Colonel. His voice is meditative, but beneath it Colonel Tigh hears a deep, pulsing rage. "Am I not Commander of this fleet?" Colonel Tigh is taken aback by the malevolent tone as much as by the question. He has known Adama for many years. They have fought side by side against the Cylons. And were close friends before the war. "Yes, sir," he finally answers, a tremulous note in his voice. "Well, is it to much to ask for my orders to be obeyed?" Adama angrily asks. "This isn't like you, Adama," Tigh responds shifting nervously. He feels the eyes of the bridge personnel upon them. A sense of foreboding twists at his stomach. Something is very wrong. "Well maybe this is the way I should be. I'm tired of people running all over me. I'm responsible for everyone's lives maybe it's time I tighten the reins." Tigh sees weariness, or is it remorse that flickers in Adama's now dark eyes? Adama turns away yelling, "Don't you all have jobs to do. I suggest you get to them!" The bridge personnel return to their duties. ***** Apollo, Starbuck and Boomer rendezvous at one of the upper observation domes inside Beta section. "So how's it going, Boom?" Apollo asks. "The men and I have found one hundred and five places between five ships. It took a little convincing for some." Boomer gives a sly smile placing his hand on his holstered phaser. "Good, we've found fifty-five," Apollo adds making a note on a clipboard. "Okay, Starbuck you start searching the lower decks of the Galactica. I'll go and inform my father. Lets meet up at the officer's lounge in a couple centons." "Now that's the best idea you've had all morning," Starbuck replies rubbing his hands together in anticipation. ***** Apollo enters the bridge and stops abruptly, like he just ran into a brick wall. He notices the usual friendly banter among the bridge crew is absent. He can feel the tension and catches glimpses of the furtive looks of the crew. He sees his father staring out the viewport seemingly lost in thought. His hands behind his back, his shoulders hunched, giving him an aged and weary appearance. Colonel Tigh approaches Apollo, following his eyes back to his father. "He's been there for over an hour, he hasn't moved or spoken." Apollo hands the Colonel his report his eyes never leaving his father as he absently reports, "We've found places for almost all the colonist from the Picon. Starbuck is searching the lower levels of the Galactica now. Boomer and Jolly are searching the last of the barges." Colonel Tigh nods then places his hand on Apollo's shoulder causing the young man to turn his head. Apollo looks into very distraught dark eyes matching his own worried look. Colonel Tigh swallows then whispers, "Go to him something is wrong. He won't talk to anyone even me." Apollo walks quietly over to his father and steps up alongside. It feels like everyone is walking on egg shells. Apollo stands at ease and turns his attention to the viewport hoping to see something that might explain his father's distant behavior. The starlit space refuses to give an answer. Without turning his head Adama speaks with a tiresome voice. "It's beautiful, isn't it?" Apollo nods without saying a word. Adama continues, "She was beautiful." Apollo frowns not knowing who his father is talking about. "Father?" Apollo whispers turning his head towards his father. He glances over his shoulder to see Tigh observing with a worried gaze. Adama turns to his son, his face drawn and pale looking like a man who has been beaten to the breaking point. Then his eyes blaze and his brows come together as if suddenly recognizing Apollo. "Your mother. She was beautiful," he blurts out. "Yes, father she was," Apollo answers not sure where this is coming from, but realizing that something is very wrong with his father. Fear starts to choke at him and he swallows it down. "I left her to die at the hands of the Cylons." Any of the crew who could see Apollo saw the shock flash across his face like someone had just shot him. Adama stares down at his hands rubbing them together. Trying to erase the blood he sees. "No father, she was already dead," Apollo finally replies. He goes to put his hand upon Adama's shoulder, but stops, not knowing why. This is not the competent stalwart man who commands a fighting fleet and is responsible for the lives of thousands of people. Adama shakes his head. "No, she wasn't." His anger grows. "Why didn't you check?" Apollo is taken aback by the question which stabs him like a knife. He's wrestled with the lost of his mother ever since Caprica was destroyed. "Father? I did. Her body was under the rubble..." "No. She was alive." Adama's voice rises causing the crew to pause in their duties and turn to the Commander and Captain Apollo. Adama doesn't seem to notice or doesn't care as he continues, "You left your mother, just like you left your brother to die!" Apollo feels his knees weaken, but manages to continue standing. Colonel Tigh immediately breaks in, "Adama, enough! How can you say such things?" Adama seems to forget that Apollo is standing near by as he lashes out at the Colonel. Adama sweeps his arm across the whole bridge. "You're all out to get me. "You..." Adama glares directly at Colone Tigh who can only stare in stunned silence. "You want my command don't you Colonel, admit it!" Adama's face reddens in anger. "Father, what's got into you?" Tears begin to form at the corner of Apollo's eyes. "Leave me alone. You're not my son." Adama huffs and turns back to the viewscreen. Tigh reaches his hand towards Apollo then drops it to his side. For a moment time stops. Apollo remains solidly erect and motionless, his head up. He does an about face and walks off the bridge. No one sees the single tear fall down his cheek. ***** Starbuck enters the crowded Officer's lounge scanning the crowd of off-duty pilots and fleet personnel. He catches sight of the same ungainly man who was on the bridge yesterday. This time he takes notice of his fine clothes and neatly trimmed hair. He looks to be a man of importance, wearing a dark blue tunic and pants. He watches as the man converses with one of the waitresses kisses her hand and leaves. Starbuck approaches the tall and well endowed waitress who gives him a lustful once over. She smiles, her voice taking on a lascivious tone. "What can I do for you, handsome?" The word handsome is drawn out like a hot summer day. "Ah yeah could..." Starbuck clears his throat and begins again. "Could you tell me anything about that gentleman who just left?" "Who? Mircos?" The waitress snorts. "He's a very important Virgon. He's Councilor Dumas's attachE9. He also tips good." Starbuck turns to look back the way the man went. "Anything else, handsome?" Starbuck blushes and gives the attractive waitress a dazzling smile. "Well, was he acting strange or anything?" "Now that you mention it, yes. He paid me to let him serve Captain Apollo over there." The waitress points to a center table where Apollo and Boomer sit, slumped over mugs of ale. "He paid you?" Starbuck asks. "Yeah, said something about it would be an honor to serve his hero." The waitress shrugs. "If someone wants to do my job and pay me who am I to argue." "Well, thanks." Starbuck turns to leave then feels a light hand on his shoulder. The waitress leans into him. Her perfume causing Starbuck's head to swim a little as she presses her ample breasts against his back. He turns his head slightly and gazes down to where the waitress hides her tips. "Hey cutie, how about me and you getting together sometime?" She takes a deep breath causing her breasts to heave. Starbuck takes a deep breath then turns to face the voluptuous woman. He assumes a mask of naivetE9, smiles and walks away giving the waitress a wink. Starbuck plops down between a very despondent Apollo and a bewildered Boomer. He runs his hand through his hair as he releases a breath of frustration. He reminds himself to look up Cassiopeia during his next break cycle. Starbuck suddenly feels the somber mood at the table, he looks towards Boomer who shrugs his shoulders. Starbuck places his hand on Apollo's shoulder. "Hey buddy, what's the matter?" Apollo takes a gulp of ale and turns his head slightly to look at Starbuck. Starbuck has never seen such a look of total despair on his friend's face before. "You haven't heard, it's all over the fleet. My father is crazy," Apollo answers trying to keep the remorse out of his voice. Disbelief widens Starbuck's blue eyes. "What, the Commander? Come on Apollo your father is the most rational person I know." Apollo stares down into his drink, his tone laced with bitterness. "He's mad, Starbuck, you didn't see him, ranting and raving. He blames me for my mother's death and for Zac's." Starbuck can't believe it Adama would never say that to Apollo not if he was in his right mind that is. Apollo takes another swig of his drink, then leans back in his chair, closing his eyes. It took a long time for Apollo to stop blaming himself for Zac's death, now it felt like it happened only yesterday. His brain tells him he had no choice, he had to leave Zac and warn the fleet of Cylon attack. His heart is another matter. "Maybe it's just stress," Boomer adds not truly believing it and slumping down in the chair with his drink. Apollo raises his hands and presses the heels of his palms to his eyes. He takes a deep breath and swallows hard. "I'm going to my quarters and lay down I'm getting a headache." Apollo stands and walks away without even a glance towards his two friends. He walks through the crowd in hollow despair. The emptiness inside threatening to envelop him. As soon as Apollo is out of ear shot Starbuck leans across the table. "Boomer, something funny is going on. I don't know what, but this Mircos who is Councilor Dumas's attachE9..." Boomer's eyes widen as he interrupts, "Councilor Dumas?" "You know him?" Starbuck asks. "I know of him. He's a blowhard, believes we should settle on the next habitable planet and stop searching for Earth. Uses his position to get special favors." Starbuck sits back in his seat thinking about what Boomer has just told him. More pieces to the puzzle. He only wishes he could put them all together. It's hard when some are still missing. Apollo lays carefully down on his bunk, thankful that the sleeping quarters are deserted at this time. The pain in his head had grown steadily worse since leaving the officer's lounge. He closes his eyes and slashes of color, like lightening bolts, flash across his vision. Apollo suddenly sits up striking his head on the upper bunk. He tries to hold on to the last remnants of a fading nightmare. And a nightmare it was, evident by the sweat glistening on his face and adrenaline pumping through his veins. The pain in his head had subsided, but a slight buzz remained. Apollo stands grabbing hold of the bunk to steady himself. He takes a deep breath and goes over to the nearest Communications console. After pressing a button he asks, "Messages for Apollo, RED5456." An emotionless voice responds, "One message." Serina's soft voice replaces the grating, detached accent of the computer. "Apollo, I'm sorry to tell you this way. It's over between us. I'm in love with Starbuck." Apollo stares at the console unsure of what he heard. His eyes flare as he backs away from the console as if it had turned into some vile, distorted creature ready to pounce. Apollo runs his hand through his dark hair trying to comprehend the message. Images of Starbuck and Serina together dance before his eyes fueling his anger. Why had he never seen this before? Of course, Starbuck planned it all along. Cass and Athena were just diversions, used to keep him from discovering the truth. Apollo strides down the corridor his ears still burning with the message Serina left. His eyes set, piercing with a sole purpose. Several people turn at the determined footsteps behind them. Pressing themselves against the wall to get out of the way as they see the maniacal expression on Apollo's visage as he passes. Apollo turns the corner and sees Serina and Starbuck near one of the turbo lifts. He stops at the corner, the two unaware of his presence. Apollo clenches his jaw and balls his fist as the rage creeps through his entire body taking control. He yells out his overflowing fury and charges down the corridor. Starbuck and Serina turn together at the fierce scream, not realizing what they're seeing until it's to late. Apollo rams into Starbuck's chest with his arms up, slamming him into the far wall. The impact takes the breath out of Starbuck who is stunned and unable to react to the attack from his long time friend. Apollo's forearm comes up across Starbuck's throat and applies pressure. This brings Starbuck out of his stupor. He looks into the wild eyes of his friend seeing madness in his dark globes. Starbuck is overwhelmed by the immense strength Apollo seems to have acquired. In a strangled voice Starbuck tries to speak, "Apollo...what the...?" Apollo administers more pressure to Starbuck's throat cutting him off. Apollo's eyes break their gaze from Starbuck's eyes. An image of Starbuck and Serina in a passionate embrace floats over Starbuck's shoulder. Still staring at the ghostly figment, he says between gritted teeth. "Why, you can have any woman. Why Serina?" His heart pounds inside his chest threatening to explode or break. The feeling of betrayal all to real. Keeping one arm across Starbuck's throat Apollo reaches down and pulls out his phaser pointing it at Starbuck's stomach. Serina screams and grabs Apollo's arm trying to force it down. "Apollo! What are you doing? It's Starbuck!" Apollo looks at his friend jabbing the phaser into his stomach, causing Starbuck to wince. Apollo releases some of the pressure from Starbuck's throat. His breathing steadies and sweat trickles down his forehead. Serina hangs on Apollo's arm as he continues to stare at Starbuck who sees the anger suddenly wash away from Apollo's face, replaced with confusion. Not sure anymore if Apollo really would kill him, Starbuck takes advantage of the sudden hesitancy, bringing his arms up he breaks free. Apollo staggers back, his weapon held loosely at his side. Starbuck rubs his throat as the strength runs out of Apollo's legs and he sinks to the floor like a marionette who's strings have been cut. Serina goes to Apollo, putting her arm across his shoulders, he looks up at her seeing her hurt an puzzled expression. "What...What was I doing?" he asks. "That's what I'd like to know?" Serina could hear the slight tinge of anger in Starbuck's voice. Apollo takes a deep breath putting his head against the wall. In a curiously flat voice he replies, "I remember having a terrible headache and laying down. I had an awful nightmare and woke up. Then I checked my messages." Apollo looks into Serina's troubled gaze, swallows shooting Serina a look of disgust which quickly fades and continues, "You left me a message...you said it was over between us that you were in love with Starbuck." Serina pulls her arm away and looks at Apollo like he just slapped her. "Apollo, I never sent you a message like that," Serina adamantly replies. Starbuck extends his hand down towards Apollo. Who looks at it then forces himself to look up into his friend's face. Starbuck gives Apollo a forced, but understanding smile as he takes his hand helping him up. Apollo leans against the wall his eyes lower to meet Starbuck and Serina's. "I couldn't help myself. I felt such rage, hatred, I just wanted to kill you." Apollo locks his eyes onto his long time friend. "Can you ever forgive me, Starbuck." Starbuck gives Apollo a crooked smile and replies, "Don't even think about it. What are friends for if you can't threaten their life now and then. Anyway I don't think you were responsible. Come on." Starbuck walks down the corridor as Serina folds her fingers around Apollo's gently pulling him forward. They stop at a communication's console set in the wall. It's orange light blinking in greeting. Apollo approaches the console and gives his access code then orders, "Retrieve previous messages for the past centon." The same indifferent computer voice immediately replies, "No messages." "That can't be." Apollo shakes his head bewildered. "I heard it." Starbuck leans up against the wall placing his hand casually upon his phaser. He caresses the weapon as a thoughtful gaze appears on his face. "You just think you heard it. I knew something funny was going on," he says. Serina turns to Starbuck still a little disturbed by everything that just happened. "What do you mean, Starbuck?" "I'm not sure." Starbuck hangs his head down in frustration. "But the Commander going crazy, now Apollo. It's all tied together somehow and I believe Councilor Dumas is a big part of the puzzle." Both Apollo and Serina exchange disbelieving looks at Starbuck's accusation. "Councilor Dumas? What has he got to do with Apollo trying to kill you," Serina asks. Starbuck relates what Boomer said about Councilor Dumas. Apollo straightens as he contemplates what Starbuck is telling him. "I have to go and see my father. If he really is losing his mind I need to deal with it. But, if some force is controlling him?" Apollo places his hands on Serina's shoulders. "Serina, I need you to go and see if you can dig up any information on Councilor Dumas." "Sure, Apollo." Apollo wraps his arms around Serina's waist pulling her close, relishing her firm body molded next to his. He breathes in the scent of her hair and kisses her neck. Starbuck clears his throat. "I'm coming with you, Apollo. Whatever is going on I'm now included." Apollo nods his head in agreement, secretly thankful for Starbuck's loyalty. He hopes Starbuck's suspicions are right because the alternative is more than he can handle. ***** Even an actual morgue wouldn't of been so disquieting as the bridge at the moment they entered. For one thing the bodies wouldn't be standing. Apollo notices immediately that his father is absent. Both pilots approach Colonel Tigh who rises up out of the command chair, his face impassive as Apollo approaches. The Colonel is an inch shorter than the two pilots, but this does not detract from his stature. "Colonel, sir, where is my father?" Colonel Tigh looks the young warrior in the eye, a remorseful expression replacing the apathetic look on his dark features. "I'm sorry, Apollo. I had to relieve him of command." "What!" Both Starbuck and Apollo cry out. "He wanted to speed up the fleet and leave the Picon behind, there are still over fifty people on board and several engineers. I couldn't let him do it. I don't know what's come over him. He's not himself, the Adama I knew would never leave anyone behind." "Do you know where he went?" Apollo breaks in trying to maintain his military posture. "I confined him to his quarters until a formal hearing could be convened to assess his competence." Tigh pauses a moment. "I'm sorry, Apollo. I didn't have any choice. It was the hardest thing I've ever had to do." "Sir, there's something going on that we don't know about," Apollo remarks. Apollo has been like a nephew to him he hated to destroy his belief in his own father. But the safety of the fleet came first. "Apollo we might have to face the fact that your father has had a mental break down and will be unable to command this fleet." "Please Colonel, just give us a little time," Apollo pleads. Colonel Tigh places his hand upon Apollo's shoulder. "You have two duty cycles. I hope you're right Apollo," Colonel Tigh replies without much conviction. Starbuck notices Adama's coffee cup sitting precariously on the arm of the command chair. He picks up the cup, a small swig of the dark liquid still at the bottom. Apollo comes up alongside. "What is it, Starbuck?" "The Virgon, Mircos, was on the bridge and he served you a drink in the officer's lounge. I think we should get this coffee tested." The two hurriedly exit the bridge leaving behind a very confused Colonel Tigh in their wake. Apollo and Starbuck head to the Science lab on the lower deck. They enter to find Dr. Payne, a small, fastidious man bent over a microscope. He looks up to see the two warriors standing over him. "Oh, I'm sorry I didn't hear you come in. When I get involved with my experiments everything else ceases to exist." Apollo breaks in. "Doctor, we need your help?" He takes the coffee mug from Starbuck and hands it to the doctor who peers at the dark liquid and swirls it around. "We need this tested right away, it's an emergency." "Why, did someone finally die after drinking this vile concoction?" The doctor chuckles until he notices he's the only one laughing. "It'll take a few microns, if you want to wait." After almost a centon Apollo and Starbuck are standing in front of the doctor who sits behind a very clean and organized desk reading off a computer screen. "The coffee is laced with RH54, better known as AfterLife. A strong hallucinogenic." Apollo and Starbuck turn to each other then Apollo brings his surprised eyes around. "Doctor, what is Afterlife?" Dr. Payne scrolls down the screen the lines of text reflecting in his eyeglasses. After a moment he sits back pushing his glasses up to rest on top of his thinning pate. "Psychiatric hospitals used it for their more unresponsive and violent patients. The drug made patients very susceptible to suggestion, effecting the part of the brain that controls memory. This was very useful when working with despondent patients. A patient's memories could be manipulated in a way to make him placid or bring him out of despair." "What would this drug do to a normal person?" Apollo inquires. "Well, it could cause psychotic episodes, distortion of memories or enable a knowledgeable professional to plant false memories." "Could it make them do things they wouldn't normally do?" Starbuck inquires as the pieces begin to fall in place revealing a sordid picture. "Most certainly, a person would become very susceptible to suggest, that's why it was outlawed for general use, on the twelve worlds, several yahren ago. Only trained psychiatrists could get the proper results with the drug." At that moment Serina enters the doctor's office giving Apollo a warm smile. "Apollo, Starbuck I got all I could on Councilor Dumas. I don't know how much help it will be." Dr. Payne smiles as Serene approaches holding a sheet of paper in her hand. "Well, as you know Councilor Dumas is the only surviving member of Virgos' government. He was only an aide-de-camp to Councilor Tomas. He had a wife who died in the attack. He has a degree in political affairs. He was ambitious, but lazy, he basically got the job through his father who apparently called in some favors within the Virgos government. The rest is just some of his accomplishments most minor probably just to help Councilor Tomas buy votes. Due to the war Dumas has been promoted to a status that he never would of reached on Virgos." "Is that all?" Apollo asks hoping there had been something that would of explained the recent events. Serina flips the page over unconsciously skewing her mouth in concentration. "Well there is one other thing, he recently hired an aide by the name of Mircos. It says here that Mircos use to be a psychiatrist at the Virgos Asylum for the Criminally insane. He was fired for inappropriate behavior with a female intern." Apollo and Starbuck race out of the center leaving a puzzled Serina. They hear the doctor's anxious yell, "What was this doing in coffee?" Apollo and Starbuck race down the corridor. "So now we know Mircos had access to the drug. But what does Councilor Dumas have to do with this? Why would he hire someone like Mircos as an assistant?" Starbuck asks as the two slow to a brisk walk. "I think we'll have to ask Dumas about that," Apollo answers. He stares ahead barely noticing the people they pass as he tries to understand all the implications. He continues, "We have to get my father to the life center and under guard. We also have to inform Colonel Tigh about our suspicions." The two men stop at a three way junction. "You go inform Colonel Tigh and take care of your father. I'm going after Mircos," Starbuck replies. Apollo places a stopping hand on Starbuck. "We need to find Dumas." "I think if we find Mircos, we'll find Dumas," Starbuck states matter of factly. Apollo bites his lower lip torn between helping his father and helping his friend find Mircos. "I'll meet you at my father's quarters in a centon. Be careful, Starbuck." "Don't worry about me, you just take care of Adama." Starbuck heads down the right hallway as Apollo continues on to the bridge. ***** Starbuck strolls down one of the lower levels his heels echoing off the bare walls. Down here he can feel the vibration of the engines through the floor. The waitress at the officer's club was able to tell him some of Mircos's hangouts. Of course he had to promise the libidinous young lady an evening out on the Tauron Amusement Barge. He was just thinking about how he was going to explain this to Athena and Cassiopeia, when he turns a corner a flash bites off part of the wall. Starbuck throws himself back against the wall drawing his own phaser. "Frak! Well that can only be one person, I hope," Starbuck whispers to himself. He shouts down the corridor. "Mircos, it's over we know everything. Turn yourself in!" Silence. Starbuck waits a micron then cautiously peers around the corner. Seeing no one, he takes a deep breath and rushes down the corridor throwing himself inside a doorway. He closes his eyes trying to slow his racing heart as he listens for any sound. The lower levels are usually unoccupied at this time, used mostly by fleet personnel only. Starbuck races to the next fork and peers down the hall in time to see a door slide shut. He notices the sign above the door restricting access to launch bay personnel only. He wonders how Mircos would know the access code for the bay. Starbuck steps up to the door trying to visualize the layout of the bay. He grips his phaser securely and punches in the access code. As the door slides open Starbuck dives to his right where several fuel receptacles lay stacked a couple feet from the wall. The bay is deathly silent with any number of places to hide. The dim red lighting casts dark shadows upon two vipers that sit off to one side. Starbuck sits with his back against the fuel canisters. He takes a deep breath and slowly pokes his head above the cans. He immediately feels the heat of a phaser blast pass by him, striking the wall and creating a burning black hole. Starbuck drops back down behind the cans contemplating his next move. He tries the diplomatic approach and yells out, "Mircos listen, Dumas is probably already in custody. It's over. Where can you go?" He is answered with another blast over his head. Why can't they ever just give up Starbuck thinks to himself. Then adds, I'd make a terrible politician. Starbuck's foot kicks a metal rod which he picks up. He examines the forked steel rod which is used to pry open the steel fuel drums. He tests the weight of the bar peering around the cans he flings it over to his right. The bar clatters on the floor bringing a series of blasts from Mircos enabling Starbuck to discern his position. Starbuck quickly rises and returns fire. He sees the dark form of Mircos bolt out from behind a dismantled shuttle door. Starbuck continues firing. Mircos stops in front of the door and returns fire. A shot rips through Mircos as he fires one last shot which strikes Starbuck in the shoulder. Starbuck is slammed against the wall his shoulder a white hot knife of pain. He remains standing fighting the weakness in his legs. He tries to pull back the burned material from the wound. He grimaces then makes his way to the prone form of Mircos. He knows the Virgon is dead. The still smoldering, black hole in his back attesting to this. He makes his way over to an intercom and strikes the unit with his fist. "Life center this is Lieutenant Starbuck in Launch bay Alpha requesting assistance," he gasps, smelling the burned flesh of his arm beneath his jacket. "Please state the nature of your request." A young apathetic voice responds. Starbuck gapes incredulous at the intercom unit and shakes his head trying to keep back the darkness threatening to overwhelm him. He tries to keep his voice steady. "There is one dead and one injured in Launch bay Alpha, request assistance." "Who is injured and what is the nature of the injury, Lieutenant?" The voice continues with the same lack of emotion. Starbuck pauses, dropping his head, sweat running down his face. He barely hears the voice over the intercom. "Lieutenant, I repeat, who is injured?" "I am you moronic daggit," Starbuck gasps out as he slowly sinks into oblivion. ***** Apollo paces the corridor outside Adama's quarters. He was unable to locate Councilor Dumas and was waiting for Starbuck. He finally decides that his wayward friend is not going to show up, he enters. Apollo stops just inside the door feeling the light breeze as the door quietly slides shut, blocking out the light from the corridor. The room is dark, except for a circle of light coming from a brass lamp on Adama's huge wooden desk. He can barely make out the still form sitting in the chair behind the desk. "Father?" Apollo quietly says. There is no response. A shadow moves off to the side drawing Apollo's attention. He draws his phaser. "Now, now Captain Apollo. That would not be a wise choice." Councilor Dumas appears, a phaser in hand pointed at Commander Adama's head. Apollo slowly lowers his weapon. Dumas gestures off to his right. "If you don't mind, Captain." Apollo tosses his phaser over against the fall wall. He notices that Adama has not moved. "What have you done to my father?" "Well, Captain Apollo, it's really quite simple." Dumas walks to the front of the desk and sits down on the corner his phaser now trained on Apollo. "I had to discredit your father. I knew simply killing him wouldn't change anything, someone else would of taken up his foolish quest. But, if he was proved to be insane." Dumas taps his finger on his head, smiling. "People would start to think that maybe this planet Earth was just a delusion of his broken mind. It would then be easy to convince the council to settle on the next habitable planet." Dumas grins. "I would be a hero." "We discovered the drug you used," Apollo states. Dumas rubs his chin. "I see, I guess it was only a matter of time." Dumas looks straight at Apollo and continues, "You were suppose to kill Lieutenant Starbuck, which would of taken care of both of you at the same time. Mircos apparently didn't use enough of the drug. I'll have to deal with him later." "So now what are you going to do, Dumas?" "Well, I'm a man who can improvise. What would be better to further my plans than Captain Apollo killed by his own father." He gave Apollo a sardonic smirk. "You're mad Dumas!" Apollo says this calmly keeping his eye on his father. Adama slowly stands and walks over to Dumas a phaser held loosely at his side. A sly smile materializes on Dumas's face. "Adama, there is the man who killed your wife, you know what to do." Adama looks at Apollo, a glazed, uncomprehending expression on his face. He takes a couple steps forward leveling the phaser directly at Apollo. Apollo stands straight staring directly into Adama's glassy eyes. "You see Apollo, I still win." Adama stops several feet in front of Apollo. "Father, it's me Apollo," Apollo says in a soft, steady voice. Adama blinks. "Do it Adama, now!" Dumas orders. "Father you don't want to do this, fight it, fight the drug." Adama closes his eyes and sways slightly. Recognition lights up his face as he looks at Apollo. He turns to face Dumas who steps back. Dumas brings his own phaser up, but Adama fires. Dumas crumbles to the floor gripping his arm an incredulous look on his face. Apollo dashes forward picking up Dumas's weapon. Adama's knees buckle and Apollo rushes to his side grabbing his arm. He helps him up and over to his desk for support. Adama leans on the desk turning his head to look into the brown eyes of his beloved son. Dumas groans and peers up at Adama and his son. "How, how did you overcome the effects of the drug?" "I guess the power of love and friendship can overpower any drug." Apollo replies as he looks lovingly upon his father, who returns a bewildered smile. ***** At Life Center Apollo stands between two beds, one holding his friend the other his father. Cassiopeia monitors the complex machines keeping track of their vitals. The soft blip sound of the heart monitors the only sound as Cassiopeia flips through several papers. She looks up and smiles. "How are you feeling, Father?" Apollo asks. "Fine, fine when can I get out of here?" Adama demands. "Sorry, Commander we need to make sure all of the drug has left your system and that there is no lasting effects," Cassiopeia replies as she moves to stand between the two beds. "Well you'll be happy to hear that Councilor Dumas is confined to quarters, under guard. They'll have a trial for him soon," Apollo says with just a hint of amusement. "I never would of thought Dumas would go so far. Trying to prove me insane so the fleet would abandon their search for Earth." Adama shakes his head in disbelief. Then looks up at Apollo, a sadness in his eyes at the thought of almost killing his son. "When can I get out of here? Cass," Starbuck breaks in, an engaging smile on his face. He takes Cassiopeia's hands and plays with her fingers. She pulls her hand away to flip through the chart. Cassiopeia's tone is laced with mock concern as she answers, "You can leave anytime you want. Your arm will be stiff for a few days and the Doctor wants you on light duty for awhile." Starbuck sits up and swings his legs over the bed. "Great!" "Oh, by the way since you're feeling better maybe we can discuss a certain waitress who has been asking about you." She glares down at a now abashed Starbuck like someone examining a new kind of fungus. Apollo and Adama exchange smiles as Starbuck sinks back down on his bed. "You know Cass I think I need some more time to recoup, I'm feeling pretty tired." Starbuck fakes a yawn and grimaces in mock pain. Cassiopeia seems to enjoy making Starbuck squirm under her gaze. She turns and walks away a sly smile on her face. She throws a wink to Apollo, who hides a smile. "Starbuck you can't stay here forever," Apollo says stopping just short of saying I-told-you-so. Starbuck folds his hands behind his head. "Well, maybe if I hang out a couple days everything will be forgotten." He looks to Adama and Apollo for assurance, seeing none his optimistic smile leaves his face. "Maybe not," he murmers. Starbuck is not amused by the chuckles from Apollo and Adama and rolls over onto his side. THE END