DISCLAIMER: I am not the owner of nor wish to appear to be the owner of FAKE and all related merchandise thereof.

WARNINGS: Formal Diana. Calmer J.J. With sprinklings of Lime here and there. The chapter(s) with Lemon will be labeled. This warning applies to the entire story not just this chapter!

AN: Okay, so this is a longer chapter than usual, but I hope you all enjoy it! Thank you so much for the reviews they mean so much to me!

" Are you certain?" Commander Leslie Reynolds had risen from his seat, " Are you certain there could be no mistake?" he was actually trembling and when the answer came that what he was hearing was indeed true, he sank down into his seat, saddened. He would have to talk with Captain Rose about this...or better yet, the whole crew of 'Glorious'.

" You have a phone call Ensign," a young nurse pulled the table tray around so that it was in front of Ryo and she placed a slim monitor on top of that. She turned it on then left the room.

When the Federation's insignia faded away Dee Laytner's face could be seen. Ryo sighed then spoke gently, " So I see someone told you about us..."

Dee shook his head, " I knew about the Commander...not you," he smiled, " How are you?"

Ryo chuckled a bit, " The drugs help."

Dee nodded with a smile, " Yes, those are good. Do you know how long until you can go back to work or..." Dee's expression became grave, " or is it really bad?"

Ryo cocked his head and smiled, " It is not that bad. We are finally leaving the moon and they say that after blast off I will be released to my quarters. I am hoping by tomorrow or at least by the end of the week I will be able to work again."

Dee frowned shaking his head, " They will give you half days I am sure. Make sure all your scars are strong and won't tear. Trust me they will–" suddenly Dee was interrupted by the intercom at his door. His Commander was speaking to him through it telling him to be in his office in five minutes. Dee frowned then answering back his understanding turned back to Ryo.

Ryo was looking up, listening to the intercom on 'Glorious', as his Captain asked for the Bridge crew to meet in the briefing hall in ten minutes. Then looking back down he locked eyes with Dee and frowned, " Guess I will be missing that."

" Just open a channel to the briefing hall and you can watch the proceeding from your hospital bed. The Captain can't deny you that given you are part of the crew," Dee's features went dark suddenly, " Speaking of which, how has that man been treating you?"

Ryo shrugged, " As can be expected..."

Dee visibly tensed, " What is that bastard doing to you!"

" Nothing, nothing," Ryo held up his hands and let out a nervous chuckle, " You need to get going anyway, we can talk about this later!"

" Ryo..." Dee held out his name in warning.

" Can't talk you need to go," Ryo smiled at the face Dee was making, " You don't want to be late!"

" Yeah, yeah," Dee grumbled, " I will talk to you later."

" Okay, bye Dee," as soon as the connection was cut Ryo did as Dee suggested and opened a link to the briefing hall. The face that greeted him was J.J. so he asked the man to position the monitor so he could see the whole room. Once that was done it was all about waiting until the meeting began.

Leslie was walking briskly to his office accompanied by Dee. Dee saw the grimness of his Commander's features, but did not ask what was troubling him. Upon reaching the office Leslie locked the door and sitting at his seat finally addressed the Lieutenant.

" I have asked you to join in on this meeting because 'Glorious' is your former ship and the ship you will be returning to after this war," as he spoke the Commander was preparing his Vid-phone and straightening his desk, " I have requested a meeting with the crew of 'Glorious' and in a few minutes I will be getting a call from Captain Rose. I will answer all questions I can after our meeting with them, so for now act as though you have already been briefed."

Dee nodded then standing behind his Commander watched as the call came through and the meeting began.

" Hello, I am Commander Leslie Reynolds of the war vessel 'Stetson'," the crew of 'Glorious' looked upon the distinguished face of the Commander and though all have seen him previously, just about everyone still felt as though they were in the presence of greatness. His dignity radiated, even through the large screen on the wall. His voice was strong as he spoke and it made everyone listen intently to his words, " I have asked Captain Rose for this moment to speak with you because information has come tomeregarding your ship. I was informed by United Earth Federation it has come to the attention of law enforcement officials that about four months ago the blueprint of your ship was sent outside of the Alexis Solar System."

The Alexis Solar System is the name given to the system in which Earth and the other eight planets are in. Once it became known that there was life in other Systems the Celestial Assembly of Planets held a meeting and named them all for easier interaction between galaxies and their nations.

At Commander's Reynolds words the crew of 'Glorious' let out a collective groan. However, the Commander ignored it and continued on, " They traced the blueprints and found that they went to the Sonorous System. Not only that but 'Glorious' import, export and docking agenda as well. As we all know the Sonorous System is home to the G'nar empire."

" What? How could something like this happen!" J.J. had risen from his seat slightly, but once he saw Leslie raise his hand smoothly he took his seat again.

" We, and by we I mean the Federation and myself, feel as though this is an obvious inside job. Someone within the Federation and possibly the Senate is a traitor," Leslie'sgray eyes flickered over briefly to Captain Rose and though the action was quick, given the size of the view screen everyone saw it. So everyone's eyes scanned to look upon their Captain. Rose was solid, his eyes boring into Leslie's a growing anger slowly building behind them.

Commander Reynolds ignored Rose and continued, " With this said I have a theory in mind. I know about the attack to Commander Spacey and Ensign Maclean. I also know that your ship would be the first one to pick up cargo from the Gorren nation's ports. A contract given to our Federation as opposed to the G'nar nation. I believe that the attack on your ship and to your crew members is solely meant to slow roll your ship. I believe that the G'nar is out to make your ship seem unreliable and in turn make the Gorren nation reconsider their contract with the Federation," Leslie took a sip of his water, " Again this is only a theory. None the less, the danger to your ship and crew is apparent and real. Therefore my ship will accompany you in route to your destination to the Gorren's docks."

" That will be most appreciated," Captain Rose nodded his head in respect to the request although the glare in his eyes told of his lack of respect for the man.

Commander Reynolds nodded, " Very well it is settled. We will intersect with your ship in one and a half days. Thank you for your time. Captain that is all that I have for your crew."

" Very well," Captain Rose disconnected the link without the formal goodbye normally used to end a meeting. He frowned before placing his chin atop interlaced fingers, he didn't even try to hide his anger. That briefing should never have been held before the entire crew. That information should have been given directly to him in the privacy of his own office. Commander Reynolds purposely wanted to plant suspicion within the crew. He wanted the crew of 'Glorious' to doubtRose's character and this enraged the Captain. So lost in his thoughts was he that he never noticed when the crew had departed the briefing room.

" Damn, you have some balls," Dee was sitting in the chair on the other side of the Commander's desk.

" I know," the man ran his fingers through his white hair, " it was foolish of me."

" Nah, I wouldn't call it foolish," Dee smiled, " maybe a little reckless though..."

Leslie looked up at his Lieutenant with raised brows, " Dee Laytner calling me reckless? I must really be deep in it."

Dee laughed, " Hey, now I'm not reckless!" his emerald eyes shifted, thinking, " Much."

That statement made the Commander chuckle, " I suppose there are worst crew members out there than you."

" I love the vote of confidence chief," Dee spoke this in a deadpan tone, but knew that Leslie would still understand that he was joking, " Anyway, so how are you going to remedy the fact that you have no proof it was the Senator," Dee raised his hands in an attempt to wave away the word, " I'm sorry, the Captain, that did all of this?"

Leslie shrugged, " I have no idea, but I will follow my instincts. They have never let me down before. Besides that man has his hand and influence in too much of the Federation's business. I wouldn't put a deed like this past him."

" Yeah," Dee nodded, " I wouldn't either."

Just as Ryo had hoped the day after blast off he was allowed to leave the Sick Ward and go back to his quarters and just as Dee had stated he was put back on duty, but only on half days. Today was the day that the 'Glorious' crew was to pick up their cargo from the Gorren ports so Ryo was on the Bridge speaking with Drake about the Commander's condition.

" She still hasn't opened her eyes...the doctors are saying that it is alright though, they don't expect her to that this soon," Ryo smiled grimly, " They also say that there is no change in her vital signs, but that everything is still stable."

" Well, that is wonderful to hear," Drake was smiling too, a soft smile that showed he truly did care.

" We are coming up on the Docking Stations," Captain Rose's voice rose above the others, " Ensign Adams, guide her in and set her down safe."

" Yes Sir."

" Sir," Cassidy spoke, " We have an incoming message from the 'Stetson'."

" Open a channel please."

Commander Reynolds spoke, " We are in range and can see you clearly, however, we will remain in orbit to head off any disturbances before they reach you. I am requesting that this line stay open so I can communicate if need be."

" Granted," Rose sat down in the Captain's Chair, " Ensign Adams, take us in."

The Gorren nation was small, but extremely wealthy, however, due to there size this planet was shared by two other nations. The Docking Stations were the finest around, the latest model and, of course, the most expensive. J.J. was actually giddy at being able to dock the ship on something so shiny and new. The docking was easy and the Captain along with Ensign Parker left the ship to look over the bill of lading. If everything was in order then the loading crews of Gorren and 'Glorious' would work in tandem to get everything aboard and secured on the ship. So far everything was going well.

" Commander there is an incoming vessel on our port side," Lieutenant Mactagert was sitting at the Navagations station next to another member of the crew. She was a pilot long before she received this rank so she would occasionally go back to her old post and fly the ship for a while.

" Is it G'nar?" Leslie looked up at the large view screen in front of him, he could see the vessel and it was coming in slow.

" I believe so Sir," Mactagert swivelled in her chair and reaching back pushed the required buttons in the Communications station to open a channel, " They have answered our hail, Sir."

" Wonderful," the Commander stood and adjusting his uniform suit spoke, " Hello, I am Commander Renyolds of the star craft 'Stetson'. You are in Federation territory, is there something we can help you with?"

Suddenly a face was on screen. That of a G'nar woman, beautiful withravenhair that curled at her shouldersand hazel eyes. She smiled then stated, " If your cargo ship leaves that port, I will destroy it."

" I do not respond to threats," the Commander pushed a button on his chair and the view screen went back to showing the stars and the G'nar war ship and Leslie sounded the alarm, " I want all my gunners in place and really for battle! Captain Rose can you hear me?"

" Yes," the Captain had just returned to the ship and the cargo was being loaded as he spoke, " Is there a problem Commander?"

" There is a G'nar war ship threatening to attack if you leave port. We will hold it off for as long as we can. It is just that ship and ours so I will not be calling for back up."

" Understood," the Captain sat in his chair and raising the alarms spoke to his crew, "After everything has been loaded we will leave this docking station. Ensign Adams and Parker, I want you two to keep this ship on the starboard side of the 'Stetson' and to make this departure swift. If you need to use the Level Boosters to get her moving, so be it."

" Yes Sir."

Nowall was quiet, the commanders ofeach ship sitting tense and the only sound to be heard was the running of various instruments on board. Adams and Parker had their hands gripped to their controls and each barely made a sound. Even Bikky, who had crept aboard the Bridge was silent, understanding the intensity of the situation. The Bridge seemed hotter than normal, almost stuffy and when Rose cracked his neck some of the crew gasped while others started a bit. Then finally a voice came over the intercom.

" Everything is secure and the ship is ready for take off."

Captain Rose nodded even though the man in the cargo bay couldn't see it, " Thank you. Commander Reynolds?"

" Let my crew know ten minutes before you break atmosphere. Gunners on the ready."

" Ensign Adams, Ensign Parker," Captain Rose lifted his glasses further up his nose, "Set a course for the United Earth Federation Headquarters. Guide my ship with care..."

" Yes Sir."

" Proceed."

Slowly Adams opened 'Glorious' cleats and she disconnected smoothly from the dock. She rose with caution and turning gracefully began her assent. J.J. licked his lips as she rose higher and higher, aware of his adrenaline heating his blood. All unnecessary power was being diverted to the Level Boosters in case a sudden charge of engine speed would be needed. The assent seemed to take took long and come too fast all at once, then suddenly the tension broke.

" Now Sir!" Ensign Parker reported.

" Commander, we are in orbit in ten!" Captain Rose gripped the arms of his chair.

On the view screen Commander Reynolds watched the G'nar ship, " Shields up! Gunners ready! On my signal."

Finally 'Glorious' could be seen rising into the stars and turning so she could shield herself behind the 'Stetson's starboard side. The G'nar war vessel wasted no time in firing in the direction of the cargo ship.

" Shields up! Shields up!" Captain Rose gave out orders as his ship was rocked with laser blast, " Steady as she goes! I want to be at 'Stetson's starboard ASAP!"

" Fire!" Leslie raised his hand at the intended target, " Lieutenant, guide the ship closer to 'Glorious'! Meet her half way!"

" Yes Sir!" as Mactagert was beginning tocarry out her ordersa blast impacted powerfully with the ship. The Navagations station sparked and the Lieutenant had to turn her head from the electricity, " Commander, the ship is temporaly stalled!" she was standing now pressing buttons and pulling levers, " I can divert power to the engines, however, it will still be a few minutes until she can move again! Captain, we can not come to you!"

" Understood!" Rose looked around at Navagations, " Adams how long?"

" Five, ten minutes tops Sir!" J.J. swiped sweat from his forehead.

" Captain!" Lars spoke over the noise of flying blast and strikes, " The shields will not last much longer! They will be down in less than three minutes!"

" No, no, no!" J.J. chanted, " Come on girl you can make it!"

Over on the 'Stetson' Leslie had stood, " Fire at will! Aim for her engine compartment and shield genera–" a massive blast struck the side of the ship and most of the Bridge crew went tumbling and falling toward the ground.

Mactagert stumbled to her feet first and looking at her monitor yelled, " We have lost all shields!" Commander Reynolds looked over at her then turning back to his gunners ordered, " Gunners Alpha and Beta aim for their engines! Gamma and Sigma, the shield generators! Where's 'Glorious'?"

" Sir! Fire on decks 42, 13 and 10," Mactagert was manning the Information and the Navigation stations now, " The fire is spreading!"

Leslie turned and looked Mactagert in the eye. He knew that tone and when evershe used itit spelled trouble, " Sheila what are you saying?"

The Lieutenant looked at her Commander, her emotion clear. " We have to abandon ship."

Leslie cursed then yelled, " Everyone off the Deck and to Holding Area One! Seven to a ship! Laytner and Mactagert board different ships! Captain Rose–"

" I heard you!" Captain Rose's voice could be heard over the speakers in the 'Stetson' "We are at your starboard side, however, we have no shields or weapons!"

" Commander," Laytner spoke up, " I have struck the G'nar's engines."

" He's right Sir," Mactagert was looking at the monitor even as she ushered the others off the Bridge, " Their ship is over heating, it's gonna blow!"

" Dee, out of that chair now!" Leslie grabbed his collar and yanked him from the seat, "Let's go! Let's go!"

The crew of the 'Stetson' sprinted toward the Holding Area and once inside each member took a seat in a shuttle and when they had seven aboard they launched off the ship. Dee and Mactagert took different shuttles as ordered and Leslie took his own. The shuttles departed from the 'Stetson' from her stern so no members of 'Glorious' saw them leave. To the members of the cargo ship everyone was still aboard the 'Stetson'.

" Captain," Lars spoke, " we need to get moving the G'nar ship is over heating, she's going to–" his words were interrupted by a brilliant white light followed by a violent jarring of the ship.

Adams let out a cry of pain, " The ship's stabilizers are coming up against interference," he grimaced then cried out once more, " I have to keep her steady manually and, dammit, there's too much pressure!"

Ryo ran over to where J.J. was standing and gripping the joy stick, his hands on top of J.J.'s, he began to help the younger man steady the ship. J.J. was right, the counter pressure was tremendous and the strength it took to keep the ship upright burned Ryo's arms and he could feel his stitches tearing. Through his hardened features and pain Ryo still kept his eye on the 'Stetson', the debris from the G'nar war ship was striking the Federation vessel making the ship sway and spark with the impact.

" I can feel her," J.J. was whispering and Ryo knew what he meant, the ship was beginning to stabilize, then suddenly there was another flash of light as the 'Stetson' erupted into a ball of flame and ripped metal. The shockwave from the explosion sent ripples of pain through the arms of the two men trying to steady 'Glorious'. They both screamed using the last of their strength to keep the ship stabilized and as J.J. yelled forcing more power into his limbs, Ryo cried out to Dee over and over again. Tears were at the edges of his eyes and his throat was raw, but Ryo screamed for Dee and refused to take his eyes from the view screen.

As the result of the explosion subsided and the ship was finally steady, Ryo sunk to the ground on his hands and knees. He allowed his tears to flow as he struck the floor with his fist and whispered Dee's name until his voice cracked. J.J. trembling from exhaustion and grief knelt down placing his hands on Ryo's shoulders and the two men cried together. Rose looked down at the two wide eyed and furious, in utter disbelief that the one Ryo cared for was Dee Laytner.

Rose's brows furrowed and with a viciousness in his voice never heard before he barked, "This cargo will not get itself to Headquarters. Everyone collect yourself and get this ship moving."

Ryo glared up at the Captain through wet bangs and upon seeing the hatred and anger behind those wire rimmed glasses knew that he had made an enemy for life. Rose snorted then kneeling so he was eye level to Ryo, spoke with disgust through gritted teeth, " He's dead. Stop sniffling and get over it. We have work to do."

Ryo narrowed his eyes and slowly standing not bothering to wipe away his tears spoke with a calmness and clarity that angered the Captain, " Yes Sir. Whatever you say," Ryo would be damned if he let this man get under his skin. However, before he could take one step he fainted and his limp body was caught by Rose, who finally noticed the puddle of blood on the floor and the crimson stain on the front of Ryo's uniform from his reopened wound.