Man and Machine 17
"Wait right there, Twiki," Dr. Theopolis detected the arrival of his ambiquad drone friend. "I am nearly done programming tonight's sunset. I am adding in a little more gold to honor our new Colonial friends, with a little more green to replicate the descriptions of the Caprican sunsets Commander Adama describes.
"Bidi-bidi-bidi-bidi."
"I am not brown nosing, nor am I playing both sides. I don't even know what that means. There is only one side here. We all want what's best for humanity."
"Bidi-bidi-bidi."
"That is not true."
"Bidi-bidi-bidi-bidi-bidi."
"When it is in humanity's best interests for the truth to come out, then I am certain the Computer Council will be forthcoming."
"Bidi-bidi. Like at Buck's trial?"
"I will admit the Council's reasoning does elude me at times…. There, I have finished. Now, what did you want to see me about?"
"Bidi bidi. Bidi-bidi-bidi," Twiki walked over to the pedestal that held Dr. Theopolis.
"I would have thought he Captain's first encounter with the world outside the dome taught him the folly of wanting to explore beyond the city's walls. It is hardly safe for him, the Colonials or us."
"Bidi-bidi-bidi, so ya coming or what?" The silver drone picked Dr. Theopolis up off his pedestal and attached him to his chest.
"Wait, Twiki, I'm not sure this is such a good idea. Twiki, I'm speaking to you!" But the silver little drone continued walking, taking Dr. Theopolis to where Buck and the others were waiting.
-oOo-
The Cylon Base Star hovered low over the landing pad that had been hastily constructed on an asteroid near Baltar's new mining colony. Centurians and other, seldom seen, Cylons were busy inspecting the containers of Tylium that had been constructed with Cylon connections in mind. Finally, the Base Star's master stepped out onto the tarmac to inspect the Tylium himself… an IL unit known as Lucifer.
Lucifer determined that the product was exactly as promised by the anonymous signals they had received, so he signaled, and two Centurions brought out the agreed upon payment.
The entire scene was surveyed by a hooded figure, wearing a metal mask. Wearing the disguise was Baltar. Beside him was Merovech, being carried by his black colored drone.
"I am unsure of this action," Merovech said.
"If the Tylium passes their inspection, then we know its good enough to offer the Colonials."
"Are you going to introduce me to them now?"
"Be patient, my friend. First we must build up a mutual trust with the Cylons, before either side is in position to take advantage of the other," Baltar said.
"I think understand fully, how your worlds fell," Merovech said, "We will not be taken advantage of so easily."
Baltar chuckled, but then became silent. He stared over at the tarmac, where his eyes met with Lucifer's.. and he knew. He had taught Lucifer too well, the IL series Cylon knew it was Baltar who had arranged this fuel sale. But what would Lucifer do about it? Would he call down the wrath of the Cylon on his former commander? Or would he wait and see what Baltar's game was for as long as it was of benefit to the Cylons? Knowing Lucifer, the IL unit would go along with the pretenses just to tease Baltar.
It was of no matter. As long as he was alive, Baltar knew there was a chance to bring greater power and glory to his name.
"Once the Cylon's trust us, as a neutral party offering our fuel services, then I can arrange a meeting of the minds between them and the Computer Council that rules the Earth. Just like you wanted me to do."
"And what do you plan to take out of this arrangement for yourself?" Merovech asked
"You have given me a kingdom to rule," Baltar said, "I am content. For now."