Chapter 38 of The Phoenix and the Wolverine.
The basestar...
Red one walked quickly.
Exactly 2 minutes and 31 seconds ago; he had received an order to get to a certain location immediately.
The order had come from D'anna; the leader of the Number Three cylon models.
The golden hued centurion had no idea why she wanted to see him so quickly; neither was he curious about the order.
As far as he was concerned; he had been given an order that must be obeyed.
After-all that was what he and his brethen had been created for.
To serve the cylons; who were their masters and superiors.
Red One passed other centurions and other cylons who paid him surprisingly little attention after the recent raid by humans who had been disguised as centurions.
He had no time to ponder on that matter for he had reached his destination.
D'anna was pacing inside the empty medical bay; Red One could see she was clearly agitated.
"How may I help today...?"
"Finally; you're here," interrupted the Number Three model "I need...I need you to do something for me."
Red One's crimson light kept moving as the centurion answered.
"What is your command Number Three?"
The female cylon took a deep breath.
"Activate your handgun...and shoot me in the head."
The centurion froze than took a step back as if stunned.
"Please repeat the command; I'm unable to clarify."
D'anna bit her lower lip nervously. "I am ordering you to shoot me in the head."
Red One just stared at her. He couldn't believe what he was hearing.
The very first directive centurions learnt when they were activated was that their masters were never to be harmed and always protected.
This was the very first time in it's long history of active service that it had ever heard a cylon ordering it to do exactly the opposite.
Red One was unsure how to respond to such a command so he said the first thing he could think of.
"I...am unable to comply."
Red one was further alarmed when the female cylon looked at the ceiling and swore.
"Damn it all to Hades!" She clenched her fists in frustration ; then started pacing again.
Red One who was still unsure what to do; he decided the best thing was to stay silent and still.
After exactly 69 seconds of the female cylon pacing; she stopped and turned to stare at Red One.
"Turn round."
That was a command the centurion could understand; he did so immediately.
"Kneel."
Red One was performing the action before she had finished speaking.
"Now; be very still while I check your...neuro-links."
Red One's sensors picked up the increased heart rate and breathing of the female cylon.
Somewhere in his memory banks was data that such observations were usually detected in humans who were lying.
Was the female cylon lying to him ?
About what?
Red One stayed completely still as D'anna opened the back of his cranial plate and reached for his telencephalic implant.
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Natalie Faust stretched as she walked into her private quarters.
She was so tired and was looking forward to a shower and some sleep.
God knew she deserved some rest; they all did.
Ever since the disastrous battle against the Xavier; they had been working non-stop to come up with an effective counter measure but so far they had come up empty.
Somehow; Natalie wasn't sure the solution would come quickly enough.
The Number Six took off her shoes and was reaching for her shirt buttons when her neural link activated.
"Natalie; it's Leoben."
The female cylon froze; straight away she could sense the worry in his voice.
She hadn't heard any alarms go off so what was going on?
"Leoben; what's wrong?"
"It's D'anna; she's died 3 minutes ago."
"What?! How?!"
"The security footage shows that she...she got one of the centurions to shoot her in the head."
"You have got to be kidding!" gasped Natalie. "What the frak was she thinking?! Has she gone insane?!"
"I don't know," replied a very concerned Leoben "right now she's on the Demetria. I'm waiting for her to wake up.
The reason that I called you is because she left a message with the centurion for both of us."
"What sort of message?" asked Natalie immediately.
"She wanted us both to be present when she woke up."
Natalie had already put on her shoes and was moving towards the door.
"Already on my way."
And D'anna better have a good reason for her recent actions.
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Resurrection ship Demetria; medical bay X259...
The ride to the Resurrection ship Demetria had been quick but not fast enough for the Number Three.
She had been impatiently tapping her feet throughout as she tried to find a reason why D'anna had got a centurion to 'kill' her.
Several thoughts had plagued her during the short trip.
Was she becoming unstable?
Hades! Natalie prayed that was not the cause; because D'anna was a very prominent person in the cylon hierarchy especially with Six now technically in the hands of the enemy.
Natalie still refused to believe that Caprica had defected to the colonials and the Thirteenth Tribe.
Six must have a plan in place to take down the Xavier; and the only way to do that was to be on the inside.
That was how Six worked and Natalie knew her a lot better than anyone else.
Natalie's mind returned to the present as she turned a corner at a brisk walk.
She looked at her wrist watch quickly; it had been 12 minutes since D'anna's 'death'. By now she had to have downloaded into her new body.
Natalie felt really irritated at the moment and she was ready to tear into D'anna.
What in the name of God was she thinking ?
The Number Six finally reached her destination and walked into the room without knocking.
What she saw made her speechless for several moments.
Leoben and a Number Eight were standing over the body of a sleeping Number Three. The two standing cylons looked very concerned.
Beside the bedside were large monitors for blood pressure; pulse; respiratory rate; core temperature and also brain wave activity.
All readings appeared within normal parameters.
The other startling fact was that in the corner of the room was a golden hued centurion who was sitting on a chair and also staring at the unconscious female cylon.
Leoben turned as Natalie came closer.
"Why isn't she awake yet? It's been more than 12 minutes!"
The Number Two shared a concerned look with Number Eight.
"That's what Serlira and I have been trying to find out; downloading and revival takes at most 8 minutes but as you can see that is currently not the case with D'anna..."
"So what the frak is going on?" cut in Natalie angrily.
Serlira looked at the angry Number Six.
"I don't know why the download is being delayed; but it seems like it may be due to D'anna's reluctance to wake up," the female cylon medic pointed at the monitor for brain activity " from the read out; she is resisting the programmed failsafe which ensures that all cylons are safely downloaded into their next body. It's like she's surfing the datastream looking for something."
Natalie stared at the Number Eight.
"You're saying she wants to stay in the datastream? Why?"
"I'm afraid the only person who can answer that question would be D'anna herself," said Leoben gravely.
Natalie stared at her sister's face for a long moment.
"How long has she been in there?"
"15 minutes and 29 seconds."
Natalie blinked. "That...has got to be a record," then her attention was drawn to the silent centurion sitting in the corner.
"What's it doing here?"
Leoben sighed. "I brought it along; this is the centurion I found with D'anna's body...it's hand weapon had been fired but it doesn't recall what happened."
Natalie raised an eyebrow. "Come again."
"I have done a quick data analysis and it looks like it was given a directive to wipe its memories 16 minutes ago. That would be just before D'anna died.
However the second worrying thing is that it's telencephalic implant had been removed."
Natalie felt her heart skip a beat before speeding up. "Who..."
"I found the implant in D'anna's hand so that could be her handiwork; however I put it back in immediately."
Natalie felt her heart rate return to close to normal.
"I just wanted the centurion close because I need to run a detailed data analysis to ensure it's core directives have not been tampered with," continued Leoben.
The Number Six model nodded. "I agree; the last thing we need is for our centurions to start acting up."
She failed to notice the golden hued centurion looked at her for a brief moment before turning back to observing the sleeping D'anna.
"Can we not do something to wake D'anna up?" asked Natalie.
Leoben was already shaking his head.
"I asked and Serlira explained that since this is...unusual; it may be best to let it run its course. Anything we do now may make things worse rather than better."
Natalie bit her lower lip.
She hated waiting but it didn't look like they had a choice.
"Fine; then we wait."
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The basestar; crew's quarters...
Cavil was having his meal when his neural link was activated.
He listened in silence to the person on the other end for several seconds
The Number One sighed. "I see; hang on let me see what she's up to."
Cavil touched the inbuilt view-screen to bring up a datastream access point. It took a few minutes to type in his password before he had access to the 'resurrection-stream.'
He studied the data in silence intently for several moments; his eyes narrowing as he realized what one of the female cylons was up to.
"Well; she has been busy; hasn't she ?
"Be as you were; I'll take care of it."
Cavil disconnected his neural link and dabbed his lips delicately with his napkin as he stood up from his unfinished meal.
He grabbed his jacket as he left his private quarters.
Two golden hued centurions stood outside his door; their red lights were fixed and staring straight ahead.
He glanced at them as he passed and the two silent metal warriors fell in step behind him.
The small group grew when three grey centurions silently joined them.
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The datastream...
D'anna found herself frozen in place.
Not because a force was restraining her ; but because she was terrified of what she was about to do.
This was her third death and download in less than 24 hours.
She had never 'died' that many times in such a short period. She wondered if there was a side effect that she should be aware of.
Once she entered the data-stream; D'anna had started moving towards the five hooded figures who were facing the other way.
For some reason she found it easier to get to them on this third attempt; but a part of her felt that someone or something was actually helping her this time around.
D'anna wasn't sure how much time had passed before she reached the group of five.
Now; she stood less than 3 feet from them and she didn't want to take another step closer.
Who were they ? Why were they in the data-stream?
"Why have you stopped?"
D'anna almost jumped three feet in the air at the voice she felt and heard in her mind.
"Who said that?" she asked in a loud shaky voice.
A second passed before a humanoid form appeared beside her.
D'anna moved backwards in fear. The form finally coalesced into that of a small female child; who at first glance looked roughly seven or eight years old.
She was dressed in a grey hooded robe but the most startling thing was that her skin was light blue; her shoulder length wavy hair was black and her pupils were dark blue.
Is this the hybrid ?
D'anna had no idea where that thought came from.
"You have taken the first step towards remembering the truth; you must complete the rest."
"You're the hybrid; aren't you?" asked D'anna.
The child simply looked at her. "Why have you stopped?"
D'anna frowned at the way the 'child' avoided her first question but something told her that wasn't really important at the moment.
"Who are they? Why is it essential that I know who they are?"
The girl-child pointed at the five hooded figures.
"They are the First Five; the fathers and mothers of the cylons and you have forgotten them."
D'anna started shaking her head slowly in numbing disbelief
"No; no...they can't be. I mean; we would know..." her voice trailed away as the child just kept watching her with disconcerting dark blue in-human and yet human eyes.
"If what you say is true...why don't we know the truth?" D'anna knew she sounded crazy but what the child/hybrid was saying was impossible.
"Ask them," answered the child as she pointed once more at the five silent hooded figures.
D'anna suddenly felt as if time was running out; even though she was in the datastream; her hands felt very sweaty.
"I...I can't see their faces."
The blue hybrid gave her a pitying look but said nothing.
"Fine; I'll go round."
D'anna walked around the five hooded figures; none of them showed any inclination that they were aware of her presence.
She finally stood in-front of them; their heads were still bent forward.
"Who are you?"
There was no response for a moment; then the five of them looked up and straight at her at the same time.
D'anna felt her lower jaw drop.
It took several shocked moments before the Number Three finally remembered to speak.
"No...this...this can't be...this can't be happening." To her ears; her voice was barely above a whisper and full of dread.
The child looked behind D'anna and her eyes widened as if she saw something alarming.
"Too late; we're out of time."
Those were the last words D'anna heard before her whole world went white.
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Resurrection ship Demetria , X259...
Natalie saw D'anna's eyelids flicker.
"She coming round," said Serlira unnecessarily.
Leoben and Natalie ignored the Number Eight cylon as they waited impatiently for the Number Three to wake up.
D'anna finally opened her eyes; she tried to speak and started coughing.
"Get her some water," ordered Natalie as she and Serlira helped the female cylon sit up.
Leoben was already moving to the bedside table and poured a glass of water quickly. He handed it to Natalie who moved the glass to D'anna's lips.
D'anna took a few sips before she weakly shook her head.
Natalie quickly placed the glass on the bedside table.
"D'anna; what in Hades'name were you think..."
She never got to complete the sentence because D'anna suddenly gripped the Number Six's hand as if grabbing a lifeline.
"He lied to us ! That bastard lied to us!" Her voice was hoarse as if unused.
Serlira gave the Number Three model an odd look while Leoben appeared very concerned.
"What are you talking about?"
Natalie was stunned by the combined expression of terror and anger on D'anna's face.
"There are more of us; there have always been more of us!" stated D'anna in a slightly stronger voice.
Natalie opened her mouth to speak.
"I hope I'm not too late."
Everyone turned to stare at Cavil and also at the two gold centurions and three grey centurions that accompanied him.
D'anna's expression turned to one of extreme rage.
"You!" The amount of venom in her voice startled Natalie.
What had Cavil done to elicit such anger ?
To Natalie's surprise; the Number One model smiled coolly at the female cylon.
"From the datastream observations; it obvious that staying in longer than required has altered your perception and most likely your reasoning.
In view of this; it is imperative that your data is placed in a restricted and encoded data-stream until further notice."
Natalie felt shock radiate through her as the other two cylons also stared at the Number One model in disbelief.
Cavil had just condemned D'anna to be 'boxed'.
"That...that was not why I called you here," these words came from a distressed looking Serlira.
Leoben gasped as he turned to stare at her. "You told him?!"
"You can't box me ! I know the truth!" yelled D'anna.
Cavil's smile disappeared. "Seize her."
The two golden centurions moved forward at the same time the golden centurion who had been sitting quietly in the corner stood up. It moved to intercept them.
Cavil saw him and his face went red as he started swearing and giving new orders.
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Red One didn't know what possessed him to stand and try to block the two fellow centurions.
But a voice deep down told him that there was something wrong with his brethren.
The Number One cylon model started uttering swear words and new orders.
Red One spread both arms as if to halt the advance of the other two centurions. They responded by trying to push him aside.
Red One tried to stand his ground as the two metal soldiers pushed against him; it was not long before Red One began to slowly slide backwards.
Leoben began to shout as Serlira backed up and cowered in a corner of the room.
On one side of the struggle D'anna was talking rapidly to Natalie.
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"You need to get to the Galactica!" said D'anna in a hoarse voice "there you will find our fathers and mothers. The First Five! You must find them!"
Natalie was trying to make sense of what the scared D'anna was trying to tell her.
"Find who ?"
D'anna opened her mouth to answer as a single shot rang out.
A hole blossomed in the centre of her forehead as blood was sprayed on Natalie's face. The Number Six model gasped as she watched the light leave D'anna's eyes.
Natalie had killed and seen people killed but the smell of her sister's blood and the sight of the hole in D'anna's forehead gave her a very strong feeling of nausea.
"Well; that was unfortunate," said Cavil as he kept the gun pointed at the dead female cylon. He sounded anything but upset.
At the same time; his two golden centurions stopped pushing against the third centurion and resumed their position behind the Number One Cylon.
"As for you," Cavil swung the gun round to cover the centurion that had opposed his personal soldiers. "It looks like you are malfunctioning..."
His finger began to tighten on the trigger.
"Enough!" roared a blood splattered Natalie as she let go of D'anna's body and stood up to block Cavil's line of fire.
"You just murdered D'anna!"
Cavil kept his gun up.
"Since she has now downloaded into the datastream; she is still technically alive so I have not killed her but merely reduced her suffering.
Now get out of the way."
The Number Six simply stared at him then walked up until the gun was pointing at her chest.
Cavil felt a moment of worry at the barely restrained hate he could see in her eyes.
"Cavil; you are insane. You killed D'anna for no reason and I won't let you box her."
The Number One stared at her for a long moment; then sighed and put his gun down.
"Too late," said Cavil calmly "before I came here, I reset the download matrix for our sister's data. At this moment; D'anna is being boxed on our sole remaining resurrection hub which we all know is in an unknown location due to our security protocols.
There is nothing you can do now."
Leoben went extremely pale as he looked down at the Number Three's corpse.
D'anna had been condemned to a fate worse than death itself.
Natalie opened her mouth to speak but couldn't find the words.
"See you later," said Cavil in a cheerful tone as he left with his centurion guards.
Silence reigned for several moments as Natalie tried to make sense of what just happened.
"I didn't know," Serlira's shaky voice broke the silence "I only informed him because she had been in there so long...I just wanted help in getting her out of the stream..."
"Leave," cut in Natalie without looking at her.
The Number Eight cylon medic stared at her.
"Leave now; before I do something that both of us will regret."
The coldness and certainty of her words had Serlira fleeing from the room without another word.
Leoben barely acknowledged her departure as he gently closed D'anna's empty eyes.
"What do we do now?"
Natalie eventually turned round.
She tried not to look at D'anna's body but the image of the red hole appearing in the Number Three's forehead was seared in her mind forever.
Natalie wanted to say she had no idea what they were to do.
She realized something was seriously wrong with Cavil; but now Natalie was aware that there was only one person she could trust.
And that was Leoben.
Even if she brought up D'anna's 'boxing' to the others; they would only turn round and support Cavil especially when he presented a doctored analysis of D'anna's mental state to the representatives of the cylon models.
For the hundredth time; she wished Caprica Six was here.
Then again; why had Six willingly left with the crew of the Xavier ?
Natalie quickly dismissed that last thought; there were more problems to worry about.
"We do nothing." Leoben stared at her in disbelief.
Natalie forced herself to look at D'anna's body. "Cavil thinks we're weak.
And he's right...we are. However; now we have a goal.
D'anna was boxed for something he didn't want us to know. Something that could be equally as important as the ongoing war."
The Number six model looked at the silent male cylon.
"Information is ammo; we find out what's going on and then we respond in the appropriate manner," Natalie paused because she had a funny feeling someone else was listening. She turned to see the still golden centurion was staring at her.
She didn't know why she had stopped Cavil from killing it; but at the moment there was almost something sentient about it's moving red optic gaze.
"Thank you for your assistance; it was appreciated."
The centurion looked at her for a few moments. "I exist to serve."
Natalie had heard that phrase several times but for some reason it now filled her with dread especially when she had seen this centurion fighting it's fellow brethren.
Centurion against centurion.
That had never happened in the history of their race.
She had to stop herself from actually checking to see if the centurion's telencephalic inhibiting implant was still working.
"Of course," said Natalie in a fake calm tone. She did make a note to be with Leoben when he ran a full analysis on the centurion; of course her gun won't be far away if needed.
"He's going to be watching us very closely Nat," said Leoben in a solemn tone.
Natalie turned to the male cylon. "Then we have to be very careful."
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The Xavier; the bridge...
Logan stretched his neck to get the kinks out and was rewarded with a faint metallic sounding cracking noise. He may have been alive for decades ( or centuries) but he absolutely hated having to stretch all so often to relax his neck and shoulder muscles.
He looked at the clock.
2 hours and 20 minutes until the meeting with the Quorum.
The Xavier and the colonial fleet had moved to their current location at least 10 minutes ago.
Ensign Kadretti and Laura had also been debriefed by Lieutenant Harrison about 13 minutes ago.
He wondered how the debriefing had gone.
The sound of the turbolift opening interrupted his thoughts; he turned round and was rewarded with the sight of Jean emerging from the lift.
She was wearing a light lilac shirt with black trousers and black comfortable looking shoe pumps. In her left hand was a dark brown jacket. Her shoulder length red hair was free flowing and from where Logan was sitting he could tell she had recently washed it. Jean's scent was exhilarating and Logan had to force himself to stay calm.
"You look good." To Logan's surprise he actually sounded composed.
Jean smiled wryly at him.
"I doubt the Quorum will be thinking that when this first meeting is over."
Logan grimaced a bit; he still wasn't keen on Jean and the girls having this meeting but there was no point on arguing at this point.
"How go the supplies for the colonials?"
"I left Q Junior with Ensign Rogers and Lieutenant Thrace. They were helping him to pack the fifth container of medication and supplies.
From his calculations; what we're giving today is just a drop in the bucket of what is needed by the colonials."
Logan sighed. "I was afraid of that."
Jean nodded. "By the by; where's Laura and Oma?"
"I told them to get some breakfast after the debriefing; no point them attending a meeting only to collapse from low blood sugar."
Jean smiled. "Good point; well since they aren't here. We might as well discuss someone we can't ignore for much longer."
Logan looked at her and instantly knew who she was thinking of.
"Caprica Six."
Jean gave him an approving nod. "Precisely. What exactly are we going to do with her?
By now she must be a bit antsy and already she's tried to ask Xavier questions."
Logan's expression sharpened. "What sort of questions?"
"She's very curious about this ship and especially about Q Junior."
"I bet she is," muttered Logan darkly.
Jean wasn't the only one worried about the female cylon; part of Logan was regretting bringing her alone because she was a massive security risk.
But a deal was a deal; however Logan would make sure Six was dealt with if she showed any sign of putting any of the crew in danger.
He would even see to it personally.
"Logan we can't kill her," said Jean in a wary voice. Logan just looked at her.
"I know that look; I don't need to 'read' you to know what you're thinking.
Promise me you won't hurt her."
Logan shook his head. "I'm sorry...I can only promise to give her a chance.
If she messes that up..." his voice trailed off.
Jean frowned then let out a sigh. "Fair enough...just let me know if you need my help please."
"I will." Logan paused. "I'm glad we've had this talk; I think I need to speak to her today."
Jean folded her arms. "When?"
Logan rubbed the back of his neck. "Just before your meeting starts with the Quorum. I also want everyone there as witnesses."
The female medic was clearly surprised by his words.
"...however it's to be a ...trial run ; where I ask a few preliminary questions and see how she responds."
"More like sounding her out...or giving her enough rope to hang herself?" asked Jean in a dry voice.
Logan smiled back at her. "Something like that."
Jean frowned at him; she didn't approve but she could see there were far less favourable alternatives.
"Well; since that's settled; we might as well inform the rest of the crew about the upcoming meeting with the Quorum."
Logan rubbed his chin thoughtfully.
"Let's hope they can give us some intel about their politicians."
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Anders tried to ignore the rising sense of apprehension as he approached Ten Forward.
Kara didn't return to their quarters last night; he had stayed up because he wanted to apologize. But when she didn't show; he realized she wanted some time to herself.
Anders had been tempted to go searching for her but a little voice in his head advised him not to.
He had eventually fallen asleep but woke up when Xavier informed him that the ship was about to move to new co-ordinates.
The male pilot had asked the AI where the others were.
That was how he found out Kara had been in the medbay. For one second he had a frightening thought that she had been injured.
"Is she hurt?"
"No." Was Xavier's simple answer.
Anders got irritated because he was expecting more than just 'No'.
"Why was she in the medbay?"
There was silence for a moment and Anders had the impression that the AI was thinking.
"Lieutenant Thrace would have the answer to your query and by the way she's now in Ten Forward."
Anders was a bit worried about the A.I's answer. It sounded as if it was avoiding the question.
As if it knew Anders and Kara had quarrelled.
Just how smart was this A.I anyway? Even the cylon Hybrids were not that perceptive !
"Fine," growled Anders before he set off for Ten-Forward.
Now that he was almost there; he wasn't exactly sure what he was going to say.
Was she going to ignore him?
That was what he was afraid of; he was well and truly frakked.
But right now; he was very scared and a bit confused.
He had no idea what the Admiral would eventually do with him and what was going to be done about Saul, Tyrol and Foster.
And Ellen Tigh...was she alive on one of the basestars ?
Was she their prisoner...or their ally?
Anders forced himself to concentrate on the present as the doors of Ten-Forward slid open before him. He took a deep breath before walking in.
His heart sank when he saw who was in the mess hall.
Practically everyone.
The only people missing were Captain Logan; Dr Jean Grey and Q Junior.
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Laura was the first person to realize someone was at the door; that was because she was sitting in such a way to keep an eye on the main exit.
Her table had Oma and Rogers who had asked to tentatively asked to join them when the two female teens walked in. Laura had to resist rolling her eyes as Rogers' face lit up when Oma agreed with a smile.
Laura wondered if the female Starfleet ensign was aware that Rogers was carrying a huge torch for her.
As for Anders; he looked like someone who was attending his own execution.
She saw the dread on his face as he searched for someone.
Eventually his eyes rested on Kara; she appeared to be ignoring his presence.
The female colonial pilot was sitting with Helo; Sharon and baby Hera.
Further away from them were Caprica Six and Dr Baltar; the former president still had that look of awe slash fear on his face.
While Six was keeping her eyes on the front door as if waiting for someone.
Laura was ready to bet her next meal that it was Q Junior. She started flexing her right wrist.
If ; no scratch that when Six eventually turned out to be a security risk...Laura will be waiting for her with a nice set of adamantium claws.
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Kara knew when Anders walked in; Sharon's voice trailed off as her eyes flickered to the entrance and then to Kara.
The female colonial pilot sighed and kept eating; she hadn't told Sharon about the quarrel but somehow the female cylon knew something was wrong.
"Eh hi," said Anders in a nervous voice.
Oh Gods; not now please. Thought Kara as her heart sank; she so didn't want a scene.
Helo and Sharon greeted the pilot with small smiles; they also appeared a bit uncomfortable.
There was silence for a long moment when Kara didn't say anything.
Anders looked resigned to some unknown fate as he stared at the back of his wife's head.
"Kara...please can we talk?"
Helo and Sharon looked at the female colonial pilot; even Hera seemed to be looking at her as well.
Kara looked at her meal and gripped her folk tightly; she so didn't want to do this now. But she had to say something.
She opened her mouth to speak.
"Good morning ship-mates; this is the captain speaking."
Kara sighed in relief as Logan voice saved her from answering.
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Oma raised an eyebrow at the captain's casual atypical greeting. She knew of senior officers who would cringe at his relaxed way of command.
"There is a meeting in exactly 15 minutes; I trust that will be enough time for you to complete your breakfast and attend the meeting. It will be in the ready room. Everyone is expected to be there."
Six and Baltar looked at each other. They definitely were not included.
"Including Caprica Six and Dr Baltar, see ya later."
Most of the occupants of the rooms looked at the two shocked individuals in the corner as Captain Logan casually sighed off.
Ander was especially glaring at Six; he still believed she had a lot to hide.
"Well; guess you'll need to eat quickly," said a familiar voice.
Anders quickly turned to his wife, she had a wry look on her face and was finally facing him.
He felt his heart beat increase; had she forgiven him?
"I suggest you get something now Sam; we have less than 15 minutes," said Kara in the same even tone.
"Eh sure," said Anders as he hurried to comply.
Helo gave him a pitying look; he knew the quarrel was far from over.
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En route to the captain's ready room...
Six was trying to contain her excitement at being included in the meeting.
That had to mean something; finally she was making headway!
And Q Junior had to be at this meeting.
The female cylon had not missed the daggered looks from most of the people in the mess hall. If looks could kill; she would have downloaded so many times by now.
Six had also noticed the new outfit Laura wore. It looked like a uniform; somewhat similar to what Oma and Q Junior had but also different.
Did the child also have a rank? The thought of a child as a soldier was very disturbing. Did Earth start recruitment from the cradle ?
But the main question was how far away was Earth ?
Her thoughts trailed off as their small group reached another entrance to the ready room. This time they didn't have to go through the bridge.
Six was conscious of the people behind her.
Kara and Helo had stuck close as if to ensure she didn't do anything threatening.
Six felt like sighing; did they actually think she was that stupid?
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Jean was already in the room when they started arriving; she sent a telephatic message to Logan who was still on the bridge.
She exchanged greetings with each of them as they took their seats; noting that Kara and Helo made sure to sit on either side of Baltar and Six as if blocking them in.
Hera was awake and bubbling away happily in her mother's arms.
"I hope having her here won't be a problem," asked Sharon a bit anxiously.
Jean gave her a reassuring smile. "It's perfectly okay; the captain doesn't mind." Sharon gave her a relieved smile as she took her seat.
Q Junior walked in quickly and exchanged greetings with those close to him; Jean's eye narrowed when she saw how Six stared at the male teen.
Even Laura gave the female cylon a pointed look.
Laura will tear her apart if she tries to harm Q.
It won't come to that.
The Phoenix snorted and said nothing but Jean could feel the entity's feeling of disbelief.
Jean turned to the door as it slid open to admit Logan.
He took one look around the room.
"Glad you could all make it; this will be short because we have a lot to do."
"Captain," began Kara in a firm tone "if I may; I don't think Six and Baltar should be here."
Jean closed her eyes briefly in dismay; when she looked again Logan was surprisingly regarding Kara with a thoughtful expression.
"Your objection is duly noted; they need to be here because this also involves them."
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Six's jaw fell when Logan calmly justified her and Baltar's presence.
Now she was more curious about why this meeting was being called.
She looked at Kara; the female colonial pilot had the expression of someone who had tasted something quite bitter.
Six couldn't help but smirk at her; that earned her a furious glare.
"In two hours time Dr Grey is going to be attending a meeting with the Quorum of Twelve."
Six saw the fury drain from Kara's face to be replaced by a stunned expression.
The female cylon was also feeling a bit taken aback by the captain's announcement. But he wasn't done yet.
"Who's on the council and what can you tell us about them?"
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Anders was not sure he had heard right.
The Quorum of Twelve wanted to meet with the crew of the Xavier.
Why?
Then Anders felt like kicking himself; he should have seen this coming.
Though he might not know the members of the council personally; he had a good guess what they were up to.
The members of the Quorum were politicians and would at this point be looking to make deals with members of the Thirteenth Tribe.
Anders looked around quickly and saw Caprica's stunned expression had been replaced with one of interest.
Then again; why was Captain Logan discussing this in the presence of an enemy and a traitor?
Before he could say a word; the Number Six model began to answer Logan's question.
"The Quorum was practically disbanded while on New Caprica but I do know that quite a number of them had secret meetings with Roslin and Zarek."
Everyone looked at her then at Baltar who was trying to sink into his seat. He looked as if he would rather be somewhere else right now.
Kara stared daggers at Six as the female cylon continued.
"There are certain members you need to be aware of; Jacob Cantrell of Sagittarion; smart and can be quite vocal when he disagrees with his fellow politicians.
Dahlia of Tauron; watches a lot and speaks when needed; she's more dangerous than Cantrell.
And Reza Chronicles of Aquarion; she's another sly character but seems to care a lot about her constituents but will not hesitate to show her claws," Six smiled at Logan " when she's after something."
Then Six's smile disappeared.
"However let's not forget Roslin and Zarek; those two are the ones you really need to watch out for. They may seem trustworthy and sincere but they will not hesitate to throw you in the path of a speeding raider in order to achieve their goals."
"You done?" cut in Kara when she couldn't bear it anymore.
Six glanced at her then looked at the crew of the Xavier who were watching her with serious expressions on their faces.
She smiled a little; she had achieved what she wanted.
"For now; yes...I'm done."
Kara looked as if she wanted to explode and but to everyone's surprise; she stayed calm.
"Thanks for the information," said Logan in a relaxed tone but his eyes were quite sharp. "But you haven't talked about the other 9 members of the Quorum."
Six shrugged. "I didn't get the chance to know them that well so I'm afraid that Kara and Company would have to provide you with the rest."
Jean looked at the female colonial pilot and knew she was this close to blowing her top.
"And I can get that information later on; however this meeting was also called to explain what everyone's role is to be on this ship."
Everyone turned to face the female medic.
"You all know the captain and me." She gestured at Laura; Oma and Q Junior.
"These three are our main crew as is Xavier who is just as important."
The colonials and two cylons looked at the ceiling at the mention of the A.I's name.
"Captain Agathon; Lieutenant Agathon; Lieutenant Thrace; Junior Lieutenant Anders; and Ensign Rogers have been assigned to the Xavier as observers and ambassadors."
Jean looked at Baltar and Six. "As for you two; Dr Baltar will be allowed to remain here as long as he wants and Caprica Six...this ship is your refuge because you asked for asylum."
Six frowned. "I'm not an ambassador for my people."
Logan's eyes narrowed. "Do consider the fact that you actually defected to us.
That hardly makes you an emissary for the cylon race."
Six leaned back in her seat with a dejected sigh. "I suppose...you have a point."
"But...but what happens when the President and the Quorum demand for my return?" stammered a nervous Baltar. "What will you do then?"
Six looked at him. "Captain Logan will protect you."
Kara and Anders gave her dark looks. The female colonial pilot opened her mouth to speak.
"And why do you think I'll do that?" asked Logan in a cool tone before Kara could speak.
Six stared at him. But...but you will!"
"I never promised that," stated Logan "make no mistake; the colonials will ask for Baltar and when the time comes...he will have to make a decision."
There was silence as everyone turned to look at the former president.
"I'll...let you know when the time comes."
"Good," said Logan " let's get on with the rest of the meeting."
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Rogers had been silent throughout the first part of the meeting; this was because he was concentrating on his shields and he actually believed he was improving as the emotions he was sensing were much reduced.
The headache had faded away and felt like a mild buzz at the back of his head.
When he had seen Baltar and Six at the meeting; he had been a bit taken aback at them being included.
But he knew the captain must have a good reason for involving them.
At the beginning of the meeting he had almost thought Kara was going to attack Six in front of everyone; before he realized it he tried to send calming thoughts towards the female colonial pilot.
Kara appeared to restrain herself but Rogers wasn't sure it was due to his influence then Jean glanced at him and gave him a reassuring smile.
Probably he had something to do with it after-all.
Then something Captain Logan said caught his attention.
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"Captain Agathon and Ensign Rogers will be accompanying Dr Grey; Ensign Kadretti and Cadet Kinney to the Galactica," Logan saw the unspoken question on the faces of colonials.
"You two guys haven't yet been debriefed by your superiors; I'm sure they are quite eager to speak to you."
Rogers hid his relief behind a nervous smile. For one scary moment he thought Captain Logan had changed his mind and was sending him back to the Galactica permanently. He glanced at Oma just in time to see her sneaking a look at him. He continued staring at her as she turned away quickly.
Was she blushing?
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Six had decided to remain silent as the meeting continued.
She may appear calm on the surface but inside she was a mess.
Baltar's future and safety was uncertain and she had hoped the crew of the Xavier would protect him but that didn't seem likely.
At first Six had been thrilled to be part of this meeting but now she saw it for what it really was.
Logan and Dr Grey were simply telling her where her place was on the Xavier.
As a political refugee who could easily become a prisoner of war if she made a wrong move.
Now she was wondering if she had swapped the frying plan for the fire.
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"We're also sending a few containers of supplies to the Galactica," Logan saw the interest on everyone's face. "Q will take it from here."
Everyone looked at the male Starfleet ensign.
"Seven containers have been prepared; all for the medical bay.
Three contain dressings and bandages; two contain essential vitamin supplements and analgesia and two contain antibiotics which are very similar to what you used in the colonies."
"How did you know which antibiotics they used?" asked a curious Six.
Q Junior answered calmly. "I had a long chat with Dr Cottle and he was kind enough to allow me browse one of the few pharmaceutical formularies on board the Galactica."
Six's face coloured a bit at being reminded of what the Colonials had lost in the last two years since the Holocaust. "I...see."
"Captain, Q; we appreciate all you're doing for the fleet but seven containers isn't going to be enough," said Kara.
Q turned to her. "I know; but we're had so little time to get this done, this is just to show what we can do and I also have to get Dr Cottle's approval before we can do more."
"Oh; you'll get it for sure," added Anders.
"Next is security clearance," started Logan "there are many parts of the Xavier which are off limits to non-members of Starfleet. Please speak to Q Junior or Xavier on a list of those areas. Also know that certain information about Earth; the Federation..." Six gave him a sharp look "...and of Starfleet are off limits as well.
I'm sure you all have lots of questions; you can ask Dr Grey or I and we'll answer them the best way we can."
Six looked up and opened her mouth to say something.
Logan didn't let her get a word out. "However, right now is not the moment for show and tell; this meeting was more like an introduction and a chance to lay down some house rules." He looked around the table.
"I'm certain you're all smart enough to understand what I'm really saying."
There was a chorus of' yes captain' from the colonial officers and even Baltar.
The female cylon swallowed nervously, Captain Logan was a man who didn't like his business being frakked with and a part of her warned her that he dealt with problems in the same manner as when he brutally cut down those cylons and centurions on board the basestar.
She darted a quick look at Q Junior who had not even glanced in her direction; she wondered if the male teen had been ordered not to acknowledge her presence.
With the kind of captain he had; she didn't blame him.
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The Galactica; main flight deck...
Lieutenant Anastasia Dualla-Adama tried not to fidget as she waited for the Delta flyer shuttle from the Xavier.
Her heart was already pounding away like a drum and the shuttle wasn't even here yet.
"Nervous?"
Dee refused to look at her husband who stood beside her.
"Can't you tell?" she whispered back at him.
Lee smiled for a brief moment. "If it helps; I'm nervous as well."
Both of them had been surprised when Dee got an urgent summons to see the Admiral; Commander Adama has also been called as well.
There were more shocks to follow; apparently the Quorum had demanded to see delegates of the Xavier and Roslin had actually given in to them.
The next bit of upsetting news was that this historic meeting was to be held on board the Galactica with a news crew in attendance.
Which made the whole thing a security nightmare.
Dee had been wondering what she had to do with it all until her father-in-law informed her that she will be briefing Dr Grey and the Xavier crew attending what the Quorum was all about.
Dee had thought she had mis-heard ; then realized that the Admiral was deadly serious.
The female lieutenant had been present when Dr Grey had levitated in the CIC before blowing up two basestars with the Gods-only-knew-what!
Dee believed in the Gods but she was still finding it very hard to comprehend what she had seen less than a day ago in the CIC.
She like so many others had pushed the event to the back of their minds and tried to move on. But there were a good number who were whispering loudly that the Lords of Kobol had sent the 'Oracle' to save them.
Dee tried not to think about it because she was certain that to follow that line of thought would lead to madness.
She took a deep breath as she tried to think of something else.
"Commander Adama." Dee looked at her husband as Gaeta's voice came over the communicator.
"Dr Grey is en-route with Ensign Kadretti and Cadet Kinney, Captain Agathon and Ensign Rogers. They are also bringing supplies for the medical bay."
The last sentence had Dee smiling; she was sure Dr Cottle was going to be thrilled. As for Lee; he looked anything but pleased.
"Thanks for the heads up; please ensure the supplies are searched once they get to the medical bay." Dee tried not to glare at him.
He was probably just doing his job; but for Gods' sakes, the crew of the Xavier had already done so much for the fleet. She felt Lee's paranoia was uncalled for.
A loud warning from one of the deck engineers had her and Lee turning just in time to see the Delta Flyer glide unto the flight deck.
Dee muttered a wordless word of wonder as she saw the strange looking shuttle. She had only see vids before now and those recorded images were barely close to seeing the shuttle in real time and this close.
She found herself rubbing her hands as she wondered what it would be like to fly the shuttle.
Of course that would never happen; but a girl could always dream.
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Laura set the craft down slowly and tried to ignore Oma's smile of approval.
To tell the truth; she had been pleased when the female Starfleet ensign asked if she wanted to take the helm.
Laura had jumped at the chance to Jean's amusement; however Captain Agathon and Rogers had seemed quite worried when they realized she was the one piloting the shuttle.
The female teen put the ship in standby mode before turning to grin impishly at the obvious relieved expressions on the faces of the two colonial pilots.
"You guys okay?" she asked casually.
Helo looked at her; then smiled. "That was a very smooth landing." He glanced at Rogers.
The ensign nodded. "I agree."
Laura raised an eyebrow. "Glad you approve."
"Alright everyone; let's get the cargo off the shuttle," Jean was already up and moving towards the door.
Oma and Laura exchanged a panicked look.
"Wait!" called both girls at once.
Everyone stared at them.
"I'm supposed to go out first," said Oma before Jean could say a word.
"It's all part of away mission protocols; the security detail goes first followed by the most senior member of the team who happens to be you Dr Grey."
Jean pinched her nose and closed her eyes for a moment.
"Logan put you up to this?"
Oma said nothing but the slight darkening of her complexion confirmed Jean's suspicions.
She sighed. "Okay; what you said is correct but..." she wanted to say she could take care of herself but something in the two girls' faces stopped her.
They are only concerned about us. Whispered Phoenix.
Jean nodded slowly. "Fine; Oma goes first," she looked at Laura "and you stay in the middle as being the youngest."
"Yes Dr Grey," chorused Oma and Laura meekly.
Rogers and Helo exchanged a look and wisely kept silent.
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Dee had been briefed by Admiral Adama and Lee that the people of Earth were allied with aliens; she had even seen some of the pictures but that had not prepared her for the first person to emerge from the shuttle.
At first glance she could tell this was a young attractive looking female in the red and black uniform of Starfleet which was the military arm of the Federation.
She had skin as dark as that of a Gemenon; snow-white short wavy hair and a very slim figure but when she turned to scan the bay, that was when Dee truly saw how different she was.
The ridges on her forehead were somewhat similar to the ones on the foreheads of the klingons.
"Good Gods of Kobol," muttered one of the marines nearby.
Lee turned to him immediately. "Take your hand away from your weapon or I will shoot you myself," the whispered order had the marine standing down immediately.
Dee kept looking forward as the female Starfleet officer scanned the flight deck once more before her gaze settled on Dee and the CAG. She stared at them for a moment then looked back into the shuttle and said something.
Dr Grey, Cadet Kinney, Captain Agathon and Ensign Rogers soon emerged as well.
Dee looked at her husband. He nodded and both of them moved forward as one.
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Ensign Bill Rogers readied his mental shields as he left the shuttle.
However despite the shields; he could sense the tension in the air and it took only a few seconds for him to discover the reason why.
Everyone who was nearby was staring at Oma; and through his shields, he could feel a combination of shock, fear and also disgust.
The last emotion angered him most of all.
Before he knew what he was doing he was searching for the closet person who was emitting the most unfriendly emotion.
He soon zeroed in on a man in engineering gear who was clutching his spanner really tight as if he wanted to use it.
Rogers found himself moving towards the man and at the same time he mentally pushed the feeling of disgust back at the engineer.
The man eventually turned to look at him.
Your anger; your fear...feel it for what it really is...extreme self loathing.
The man's eyes widened in fear as he watched Ensign Rogers approach.
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Darien Mateus had tried to remain calm as the shuttle appeared.
His contacts in the CIC had been right after-all; so something big was going down in less than an hour.
Darien was a Son of Ares and right now his mission was to gather information about who was attending and report back to his leader.
But what he had not counted on was on who came out first.
He knew straight away that this thing in the red and black uniform was not human; what was it doing on board the Xavier? He had seen the captain and Dr Grey and even the young male ensign and they definitely looked human.
Darien gripped his spanner tighter as he envisaged crushing it's skull with the object in his hand.
The 'fake' engineer was so intent on who he was staring at that he was unaware of the person approaching him until it was too late.
A male ensign in colonial flight uniform was almost upon him and he looked very angry; then something peculiar happened.
Darien's felt his disgust being turned inwards until it became self-hate and dismay; he looked at the pale male ensign and somehow knew that he was causing this to happen but Darien was powerless to speak or even move.
And all the while; the emotion of self-loathing seemed to increase and his grasp on the forgotten spanner began to weaken.
The colonial ensign continued to approach and was lifting his right hand when they both heard a voice.
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Oh boy; someone just pissed off Rogers!
That was all the warning Jean had before she realized something was wrong.
She turned round to see Rogers was walking up to a nearby transfixed man and the ensign's hand was up and towards the man.
"Mr Rogers," called Commander Lee who had also noticed the same thing.
To Jean's relief, the ensign stopped 3 feet from the man; he stared at him for a long moment and the receiver of the stare dropped his spanner and left at a brisk walk.
In fact he was practically running.
Rogers watched him go before turning round.
Jean was a bit alarmed to see that the ensign appeared paler than usual however his eyes were quite clear.
"Ensign; what was that all about?" asked Lee with a puzzled look on his face.
Rogers tried to smile. "I thought it was someone I knew, guess I was wrong."
What just happened ? Wondered Jean frantically.
The lad is a lot more powerful than we thought. The Phoenix seemed to be pleasantly surprised at the revelation.
There are very, very few empaths who can use their abilities as a weapon and Rogers just did that without actually realizing it.
Jean tried to appear calm as she absorbed what the entity was saying.
Do bear in mind that the trigger was when that...man was giving Oma a very unpleasant look.
The female medic looked around quickly; a lot of people were openly staring at them and Oma was getting her fair share of looks.
You will need to address that later because the CAG just asked you a question.
Jean forced herself to return to the matter at hand.
"Dr Grey; you mentioned there were supplies for the medical bay?"
The female telepath nodded. "Yes Commander; Ensign Kadretti was just about to remove them from the shuttle hold." She sent a telepathic thought to Oma and noticed how Rogers followed the female ensign's movements.
Jean knew she had to speak to the colonial pilot soon but this meeting with the Quorum could not wait.
Also the CAG was speaking again.
"Dr Grey; may I present Lieutenant Anastasia Dualla- Adama; she will be briefing you on the functions of the Quorum before the meeting."
Jean turned to the nervous looking slim dark-skinned uniformed woman beside Lee and shook the female Lieutenant's outstretched hand.
"Please to meet you Lieutenant; I'm grateful for your help as I know next to nothing about Colonial politics." Jean had kept her voice as soothing as possible but she detected that the female lieutenant was even more nervous.
"Em...I'll help as much as I can Dr Grey."
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Rogers tried to keep a calm expression as thoughts raced through him.
He had no idea what he had just done to the man who had been staring at Oma.
The colonial ensign had felt his anger and fear and turned it back on him...and it had done something.
Something that had made the engineer run away.
Roger looked around and quickly rubbed his chin; what was happening to him?
Was this part of his mutant ability? Was he becoming a monster?
Don't even go there!
Rogers almost froze as the now familiar dark feminine presence spoke in his mind.
You are mutant and human; just like we are. Never, ever see yourself as a monster buddy.
Phoenix ? Thought Rogers.
"Rogers," the ensign turned to face a concerned looking Helo.
"Are you okay? You seem kinda spaced out," whispered the colonial captain.
Helo watched the colonial ensign glance around hurryingly.
"It's the...em empathy thing; too many emotions right now."
Helo frowned a little at his explanation. "We need to get you to Dr Cottle..."
"No! No!" said Rogers in a low whisper. "Let's not turn me into a lab rat just yet."
A soft cough had both colonials turning to face Laura who was pulling a grav unit which had a heavy looking box on it.
"Eh guys; help us out now and talk later, besides you're attracting an audience."
Helo and Rogers turned and sure enough some of the colonial officers were giving them odd looks. Even Lee was giving them the eye.
"Em...sure; what can we do?" quickly asked Helo.
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Darien finally stopped running when he dived into a supply room to catch his breath. The feeling of self loathing had passed but the fear remained.
He had no idea what happened on the flight deck.
He just knew it had something to do with the Xavier crew and the male colonial ensign.
It took a while before he could recall the ensign's name.
Billy 'Buck' Rogers.
However Darien wasn't too sure that he could report his experience to the cell leader.
Something told him that relaying how he felt would make him appear insane.
Darien closed his eyes and sent a quick prayer to Ares; it took a while before his breathing calmed down.
In the end; he decided to say nothing but he was definitely going to do his best at staying away from Ensign Rogers and the crew of the Xavier.
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Oma kept a neutral expression on her face as she walked beside Dr Grey.
The female Starfleet ensign was conscious of the looks thrown in her direction from their small escort and the colonials who stopped what they were doing to watch them pass.
Almost everyone seemed to be ignoring Laura.
As for Dr Grey; Oma saw a lot of people mutter what she suspected were prayers as they stared at the female medic.
But Oma was also getting her own share of looks and expressions of shock and anger were worrying.
Just great, thought Oma wearily, she wondered how long it would take for fear of the unknown to turn to hatred.
She also wondered how they would react when the USS Dunkirk, the USS Prometheus and the IKS Y'tem showed up.
Especially when they met Captain E'Kalez with her ruby red skin and black wings and saw the security chief of the Dunkirk who happened to be Lieutenant Commander Shran, an andorian with blue skin.
There were bound to be more than a few heart attacks among the colonials when that meeting took place.
Oma glanced behind to see Laura who was paying close attention to her surroundings while Dr Grey was listening to Lieutenant Dualla-Adama.
Commander Lee Adama had left with Ensign Rogers, Captain Agathon and the containers for the medical bay and had promised to meet up with them later and also explained that the four armed marines accompanying Dr Grey , Oma and Laura was a mere formality.
Yeah right.
Oma had been a bit worried about how pale Rogers looked and realized that this was not the time to draw attention to his condition.
There was a sense of tension in the air that put Oma on high alert.
It took a while before she realized what it was.
A few years before the Dominion War; Oma had gone with her parents to see her relatives on Q'onoS.
One of her mum's cousins was called Thera and she was one of the few people who had been nice to Oma.
Thera had also been a junior communications officer on a Klingon bird of prey known as the IKS Ze'mad.
She had regaled Oma with stories of her time as a cadet in the Klingon Military Academy and also of her time as an officer on the IKS Ze'mad.
However Thera had also explained how they had been taught in the Academy that one must never appear weak because that could lead to the other officers looking down on you and taking advantage of that weakness.
It was even worse for the senior officers because any sign of weakness could be a sign that the junior officers could challenge them for leadership in some cases.
Even if you were dying slowly or bleeding to death; you must never show it or ask for help.
Oma had listened with wide eyes and had asked Thera if she was scared to serve on the IKS Ze'mad. Her aunt had laughed and stated that the Ze'mad was where she was meant to be until it was time for her to go to Sto-Vo-Kor.
(Sto-Vo-Kor is Klingon Heaven.)
Unfortunately, Thera eventually got her wish; a year after the Dominion war started the IKS Ze'mad was lost with all hands in a skirmish against the Dominion forces.
During Oma's childhood and her time in the Academy; she never forgot Thera's stories. Because it made Oma realize how lucky she was to be going to Starfleet Academy and not the Klingon Military Academy.
In Starfleet; cadets were encouraged to ask for help when they needed it and to learn about supporting each other; because no sentient being was an island.
As Oma looked around her once more; she believed her late aunt would have recognized and even approved of the attitude of these colonials.
They may be greatly reduced in number; paranoid and practically on their last legs but it would take a lot for them to ask for help because they were a proud people.
Almost klingon like.
With that thought on her mind; Oma straightened her spine as their small group reached a conference room.
There were a number of people already in the room. Most of them carried arms.
Two of them Oma recognised instantly from the last video call to the Xavier.
Admiral Adama and Colonel Saul Tigh.
She noticed how they zeroed in on her immediately.
Saul Tigh's lips tightened in a thin disproving line as he stepped forward while the senior Adama looked curious.
Both men greeted Dr Grey first; then as one turned to face Oma.
"Ensign Ihuoma Kadretti," introduced Dr Grey in a calm tone.
Admiral Adama studied her for a long moment then stretched out a hand.
Oma was stunned for a moment before taking his right hand.
"Ensign Kadretti; it's a pleasure to finally meet another soldier of the Earth; one who was instrumental in blowing up a Resurrection ship..." several of the colonial marines gave her startled and impressed looks "...and also flew rings round the basestars while blasting two of them to smithereens.
In summary; we were quite impressed."
Oma felt her cheeks get quite warm. "I...thank you Admiral Adama."
The Admiral nodded once more before letting go of her hand and turning back to a smiling Dr Grey.
"I trust Lieutenant Adama has been helpful."
Jean nodded. "Yes; she has. However I would appreciate it if she sat in on the meeting."
Admiral Adama and his XO exchanged a look.
"To be fair; we were actually going to ask if that would be acceptable," said Adama senior.
Saul sighed. "But the Quorum may have an issue with that."
"If I may suggest something sirs," said Dee " we could always say I was representing the military arm of the government."
Saul looked at the Admiral and shrugged. "Sounds okay to me."
Adama nodded; then looked at his wristwatch. "We have less than 20 minutes until it starts; however there is something else that you need to know," he paused.
"A number of the news crew are going to be attending."
"Why?" Everyone turned to Laura who was looking at the Admiral suspiciously.
Admiral Adama answered the female teen mutant as if he was addressing a fellow adult.
"Because if I refused; they were going to move the meeting back to Colonial One which would mean redoing the security detail which is difficult enough as it is.
Then again; by having the meeting here with Lieutenant Adama attending, I would get to know first-hand what was decided."
Laura nodded. "Smart move."
Adama smiled dryly. "Glad you approve."
The female teen shrugged in a nonchalant manner. "Whatever."
Jean shot her a stern look which she ignored.
The medic sent an apologetic look towards the Admiral.
"Thanks so much for your help."
Admiral Adama shook his head. "No; it is us who are to thank you for everything; especially the medical supplies.
"You're welcome Admiral," said Jean "it's the least we could do."
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Saul stayed mostly quiet until he and the Admiral had left the conference room.
It was when they were almost close to the medical bay that he decided to say what was on his mind.
"I still think having this meeting with the Quorum is a bad idea."
"It's out of our hands Saul," said the Admiral.
"We both know the Quorum is going to frak this up 6 ways from Remembrance day especially when they see who is representing the Xavier and the people of Earth."
Adama glanced at him. "What do you find wrong with Dr Grey and her team?"
Saul's remaining eye widened in disbelief. "Let's see; we got a woman who obliterated two basestars with Gods-know-what; a well trained killing machine in the form of a teenage girl with blades in her hands and a female alien who we know next to nothing about!
You think that certain members of the Quorum are going to take one look at the ridges on that...alien girl's head and keep quiet about ?!"
Adama glanced at his old friend.
"Kadretti is not the one I'm worried about."
Saul sighed. "You're right," he was silent for a moment "who knows; maybe the Quorum might actually succeed in pissing Dr Grey off."
Adama took a long time answering.
"For our sakes; I sure hope not."
Saul Tigh gave him an amused look. "You're joking right? Getting rid of the Quorum might actually solve most of our problems." The XO's voice actually sounded wistful.
Adama sighed. "Saul; even though I know you're joking...you do scare me sometimes."
His XO just grinned impishly as they both walked into the medical bay.
It didn't take them long in finding Dr Cottle; the middle aged doctor was happily going through the crates with a pensive CAG cataloguing the contents.
"So; what have we got?" asked Adama.
"Gods blessed supplies! Bandages; vitamins; antibiotics and analgesics.
Gods bless that boy; he actually came through!" To say Cottle was ecstatic was an understatement.
"We still need to be sure this stuff is okay to use," said Lee in a disapproving voice. Cottle shot him a glare that could have vaporized a lesser man on the spot.
"What of Rogers and Helo? Where are they?" asked the senior Adama quickly before the doctor actually took a swing at his CAG.
"In my office; samples have already been taken for DNA recheck however I'm certain they are who they say they are."
Saul frowned but Admiral Adama nodded.
"Okay; but we need to debrief them now."
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Rogers and Helo stood up to salute their commanding officers once the four men entered the doctor's office.
"At ease," said Admiral Adama. He noted the clean; new crisp uniforms both men wore. Just like the ones Thrace; Anders and Sharon had worn.
One thing he had to admit is that Captain Logan seemed to know how to take care of people under his command.
"How are you two doing?" asked the Admiral.
Helo answered. "We have been treated quite well sir."
Admiral Adama nodded. "How's Hera and Sharon?"
The colonial captain now smiled a little. "They are well Admiral and thanks for asking."
The senior Adama felt relieved that the Agathons had apparently forgiven him for what had happened but deep down inside he still blamed himself for what had happened.
"Glad to hear it" he turned to Rogers who was watching him with clear eyes. He thought the ensign looked a bit pale.
"Ensign Rogers; you alright ?"
The young pilot swallowed nervously before replying. "Yes sir; I'm perfectly fine."
Adama's eyes narrowed but he decided not to pursue the matter.
"I know circumstances have prevented us from meeting earlier but you still need to be debriefed. What's the situation with Caprica Six and Baltar ?"
Helo's face assumed a neutral expression as the Admiral got straight to the point.
"Captain Logan assigned them personal quarters with restricted movement to only their quarters and the mess hall."
"Who's watches them most of the time ?" asked Lee.
Helo looked a bit uncomfortable as he answered. "Xavier; the A.I."
Lee and Saul exchanged a disturbed look. Kara had repeated this earlier but hearing it again just didn't sound right.
"But I think Kara and Anders are also keeping a close eye of them as well," added the colonial captain hurryingly.
Admiral Adama didn't feel too reassured about that for obvious reasons but he had other things on his mind. He looked at Rogers.
"You were on the bridge during the battle Ensign, what can you tell us about their tech?"
Even Cottle appeared interested.
Rogers glanced quickly at Helo before answering. "Their CIC is much smaller than ours but I can barely understand most of their tech."
Saul's eyes narrowed. "But you were providing shield read-outs during the battle."
Rogers sighed. "That was simple compared to the other stuff they have on the bridge and that was only after Ensign Kadretti told me what to watch out for."
"Have any of you seen their engine room?" asked Lee.
Once again Rogers hesitated before answering.
"Yes I have sir."
Everyone waited for him to speak.
"And?" prompted Saul Tight impatiently.
"There is a single large glowing column which may span all four decks; Q Junior called it the warp core ; it may be the ship's main source of power but apart from that, I have no idea how it works."
Saul frowned as if dissatisfied with the ensign's answer but the Admiral spoke before the XO could say a word.
"And your ability; what more can you tell us about it?"
Everyone saw that this line of questioning made Rogers appear even more uneasy.
"It's a bit complicated to explain sir," he paused as if trying to find the words "I can...sense how people are feeling, he saw an odd look on Saul's face " not read their thoughts but just their emotions."
"And the oracle thing? How does that work?" asked Lee who also appeared sceptical.
Rogers looked at the CAG for a long time and also at the other two senior officers and the silent Dr Cottle.
He could tell they didn't truly believe in oracles.
"Sirs; with all due respect...oracles have existed for millennia.
It is unfortunate that over the years several people have come forward claiming to have this ability and a majority have been proven to be fakes.
However being an oracle doesn't mean one has a clear and direct line to the future; it comes as visions which at times barely make sense."
"Then what use are you to the fleet if you can't control this ability?" asked Saul bluntly. Admiral Adama frowned a little at his XO's words.
Rogers straightened his spine as he replied carefully.
"I am first and foremost a colonial officer and have sworn to protect my people with my life. I have tried to uphold that oath from the day I put on this uniform sir."
Saul tilted his head back and narrowed his remaining eye as if studying the ensign before him.
"And indeed you have," said Admiral Adama gravely " which is why we appreciate the position you're currently in. However; do not lose sight of your main goal which is to find out as much as you can about Earth; the Federation and Starfleet."
The Admiral's gaze also included Helo. "I cannot stress how important this is; do you understand ?"
"Yes sir," chorused both colonial officers.
"Is there anything else I need to know?" asked the senior Adama.
There was silence for a long moment; then just as the Admiral was about to dismiss them, Rogers closed his eyes briefly before speaking in a resigned voice.
"There is something else sir."
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Helo had been a bit worried when Saul and Lee basically showed total disregard for Roger's ability. Part of him understood why.
These were men who dealt with explainable factors and definitely had no time for 'spiritual' or 'magical' like events.
Helo used to think like that until he met Sharon.
Considering all the obstacles that they both had overcome he was beginning to believe that there might be Higher Powers at work.
Once the Admiral reminded him and Rogers of their duty; the senior officer had asked if they had anything more to add.
Then Rogers stated speaking about a vision he had concerning Senior Lieutenant Daniel Novacek.
Now Helo was very worried; he could tell from the expressions of the senior officers and even the doctor that they couldn't believe what they were hearing.
"Son; are you certain you weren't dreaming?" asked a concerned looking Dr Cottle.
Rogers stared at them in disbelief. "Dr Grey believed me."
Saul raised an eyebrow. "Maybe she was letting you down easy; trying not to hurt your feelings."
Rogers bit his lower lip in frustration then spoke in a calm tone.
"Sir; I was right about the wormhole when we first saw it; I predicted that before it actually appeared."
"He's right about that sir," contributed Helo.
Saul's face darkened. "So what? You expect us to throw a severely traumatized man into a cell because Rogers saw a vision of him defending himself?! Surely you see how ridiculous a reason that is!"
The colonial officer opened his mouth to speak and then shut it as if realizing any more words would make the situation worse.
"I understand sir; it does sound...odd." His tone was resigned. Even Rogers kept silent.
Cottle and the Admiral exchanged a worried look.
"Ensign Rogers," called the male medic "I'm going to ask you to stay back for a psyche evaluation."
Roger's expression became very alarmed.
Cottle raised a soothing hand. "Just for a few hours; you'll get back to the Xavier."
The colonial ensign still looked worried.
"If it's not too much; may I stay with him?" asked Captain Agathon to everyone's surprise.
Admiral Adama looked at Cottle who nodded.
"I don't see why not." Roger's appeared to calm down a bit at the fact that Helo was sticking around.
"I'll complete the cataloguing of the supplies from the Xavier; then check up on Dr Grey and her team at the meeting," offered Lee. His father nodded before the CAG left the office.
Admiral Adama gave Rogers one more worried look.
"We'll check up on you guys later," then he and Saul Tigh left.
Dr Cottle turned to a worried looked Ensign Rogers.
"Sir; for the record, I'm not crazy," said the ensign firmly.
Dr Cottle watched him for a while. "I don't think you are; but you're going to be the first recorded enlisted oracle we have in history.
So please have pity on the top brass being a bit concerned when one of their pilots claims to see the future.
This psyche evaluation is standard procedure especially when enlisted officers show significant psychological symptoms or have been exposed to events which can affect one's mental health and the Gods know that almost all of us in the fleet are overdue for such an evaluation.
So consider yourself lucky that you're actually getting one."
Rogers turned a bit red. "Yes sir; I appreciate your help."
Cottle snorted."Good; wait a bit while I get my Padd."
Rogers waited until the doctor had gone out before turning to Helo.
"Thanks for staying."
Helo nodded. "Think nothing it..." then he hesitated "wish I could have done more."
Rogers was already shaking his head. "You did your best captain; only time will tell if I'm right or wrong," he took a deep breath.
"And I'm afraid I'm going to be right."
Helo didn't know why but Roger's words sent chills down his spine.
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Somewhere on the Galactica...
Darien Mateus casually looked around as he walked down a deserted corridor.
This section was cordoned off with red hazard tape because of potential micro-hull damage which was the result of several battles.
Such minor damage could be repaired at a Colonial Orbital Engineering Space Station but they lost all those platforms two years ago when cylons rained the Hade's fires on the Twelve colonies.
Now all the crew could do was avoid certain sections and seal them off.
Anyone in the CIC would see this part of the Galactica as uninhabited due to safety concerns and thus it would be one of the last places for anyone to look for a certain group.
The Sons of Ares.
Darien knocked on a door in a particular pattern; a few seconds passed before it swung open and the man found himself facing quite a number of drawn guns.
The weapons stayed up; even when he stepped in and turned around slowly to show he was unarmed.
"You're early," said Sirius who didn't look up from the maps he was studying.
It was only when the leader spoke that the guns went down.
Darien nodded. "I know; the Quorum meeting is about to start."
Sirius straightened up from the table. "That is quite obvious; so what did you learn from the flight deck ?"
"The Oracle is here with the captain's daughter and a...another crew member of the Xavier."
Sirius now looked at him. "Not Q Junior."
"Nah; this one is female and alien. About 5 feet 8 or 9 inches; dark skinned like a Gemenon. Distinctive features are ridges on the forehead and snow white short wavy like hair."
"Did you get a name?" asked Sirius patiently.
Darien began to sweat when he realized he hadn't.
The leader of the Sons of Ares stared at him for a long moment.
"I see; well this...alien may be Ensign Kadretti but I shouldn't be doing your job for you should I?"
"No sir," said Darien nervously.
Sirius smiled at him which made him even more worried.
"So; why did you leave early?"
Darien looked around and saw that everyone else was watching him closely. People he had fought beside and joked with regarded him with hard eyes.
He quickly thought of something to say.
"I...I thought someone may have recognized me."
Sirius' eyes narrowed. "Who?" his soft voice sounded lethal.
Darien swallowed hard. "Ensign Bill Rogers."
Sirius now looked puzzled and turned to someone beside him who was wearing a colonial flight uniform.
"He's a kid; was assigned to the Xavier with Starbuck; Anders; Helo and that cylon bitch, Sharon."
Sirius absorbed this information for a long moment.
"So Darien; why would he recognize you?"
The Son of Ares shrugged helplessly. "I don't know but I thought I should leave just in case."
Sirius folded his arms and stared at him for several seconds; then nodded.
"Probably that was wise of you."
Darien felt his knees go weak with relief.
The leader turned back to his maps of the CIC and the main flight deck. "It's not yet time for us to show our hand; for now discretion is our weapon."
Sirius beckoned at Darien without looking at him. The son of Ares hurried forward.
"However by leaving early; I don't have enough intel of whether the shuttle is being closely watched or not."
Darien's face reddened but he said nothing.
"But the fault does not totally lie at your door," said Sirius calmly "I wanted to get someone into the meeting but the security protocol was too rigid so we both will have to wait until another opportunity presents itself."
Darien cleared his throat and forced himself to say something.
"That sounds like a good idea sir."
Sirius' smile was entirely without humour; then he turned to Darien.
"It will be your job to find that opportunity and also I want you to find out more about this...Ensign Billy Rogers."
Darien felt the blood leave his face.
"And Darien; don't fail me." Sirius stared hard at the man until Darien replied in a hushed voice.
"Yes sir; I won't fail you."
Sirius' smile widened before he turned back to the maps before him.
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Hi everyone! Hope all has been well.
So sorry this is quite late; home and work has been quite hectic so kinda lost track of time! I am so sorry.
Hope you all enjoy this chapter and wish me luck in getting more chapters out quicker.
Have a great week people!
