Authors note: this story takes place during series one, after Star-Crossed, but before It Makes A Lovely Light.

Out of love for you. (Part 12)

Dylan stood on the bridge of the Maru, looking at the others, the question of what to do with Rommie hanging heavy in the air. Tyr had immediately suggested that they dismantle her and wipe Andromeda's memory-core. This had set off Harper and Trance, who argued just as loudly for leaving Rommie as she was. A still angry Beka had sided with Tyr, and after Rev Ben stated his neutrality in the mater, Dylan knew that his was the deciding vote. He shook his head, "I need time to think. I'll see you all on the observation- deck in one hour."

Dylan stalked the corridors of the Andromeda, deep in thought: Andromeda, and by extension Rommie, was a Highguard officer. Rommie had committed treason by handing over the ship to the Restors. The Highguard code of conduct left only one course of action: Rommie's dismantling and the erasure of Andromeda's personality. In essence, killing her mind, but leaving her body, the ship's AI, alive.

Could he do that to his friend?

He was less than surprised to see Rev Bem standing at he next junction. Dylan stopped and looked at the Magog and shrugged, "What am I supposed to do?" Rev Ben opened his arms wide; "The Devine has planes for us all, even Andromeda. What dose your heart tell you?" Dylan shook his head, "The Highguard code of conduct is specific in a mater of Treason: death." Rev Bem raised his hand in objection, "What dose your heart tell you, not your mind. You are the captain, and Rommie is part of your crew, your friend. How do you feel you should act?"

Dylan nodded, "Call the others to the Observation deck. I've made my decision."