Chapter 17: Reinforcements
Setting: Alpha Site, two days later
There was a buzz of activity all over the Alpha Site base. Teal'c and Colonel Mitchell had escorted President Roslin, Colonel Tigh, Apollo, and Starbuck to the Alpha Site so they could brief the fleet. The Cylons had found Earth and were on their way there.
"How? How could they have found out about Earth?" Adama was furious when he heard the news.
"Doctor Baltar was the one that warned us. I do not know how he found out but what we need to figure out is what to do in the mean time." As usual, President Roslin kept her cool even in the face of danger.
They had talked about it for two days. Adama, Tigh, and Roslin had agreed on a decision. Some of the fleet would travel back to Earth to assist in defending the planet. The Galactica, equipped with Raptors and Vipers, as well as the Celestra and Salvage and Repair ships would go as well. All would operate with the minimum amount of crew required and the Asgard were going to fit each ship with weapons and shields.
Roslin had asked Major Pierce to contact Earth. She conversed with General O'Neill.
"General, on behalf of the Colonial Fleet, we'd like to help with the Cylons. We're sending three ships to assist. The Asgard have already agreed to fit us with weapons so we may help."
"Madame President, that is very nice, but we don't want to put your people at risk."
Roslin shook her head. "General, my people are your people. We share common ancestors and we need to work together for our survival. I will not take no for an answer."
"Very well, Madame President. Major Pierce, I need to talk to Colonel Pendergast. Is he nearby?"
A man stepped out of the shadows. In his late 40's with graying hair, he was still in fit shape. "Right here, General O'Neill. Doctor Jackson already informed me of your orders, but I have to object. The Hermes was designed for exploration, not to fight a battle against a foe we know nothing about."
"I know, Colonel. But we have no choice. The Daedalus will be coming as well and we also have several Asgard ships at our side. We still need all the help we can get."
"Very well sir."
General O'Neill smiled. "Good. I expect you and the Colonial Fleet in five days. By then, the Daedalus should be here. O'Neill out."