Last time on Battlestar Galactica…
Apollo looked down in thought. Then he froze, "Starbuck, stand up!"
"What? Why?" Starbuck stood quickly.
The captain rushed to the box Starbuck had been sitting on, "This box has ventilation tubing! Help me get it open!"
Together, the two pilots lifted the heavy lid and moved it aside. Oxygen-rich steam floated out and hung in the air around their feet.
They both gasped.
And now the exciting conclusion…
Inside the box, the tense features of a person could be made out in the steam. Apollo and Starbuck tried to wave aside the steam to disperse it.
And there was Celeste. Her whole body was tight and shaking, her eyelids twitching and her lips moving. Her face was wet with salty tears, and her uniform was blotched with sweat. But to Apollo and Starbuck, she'd never looked more beautiful.
She was alive.
Gently, Apollo reached into the box and brushed a fresh tear from her cheek, trying to hold back his own, "What have they done to you?"
"I can't believe I didn't recognize this box!" Starbuck kicked the lid, "I spent enough time in it! Looks like it's been modified though."
Celeste began coughing as her lungs encountered normal air. Her breathing became more labored.
"We've got to get her back to the Galactica," Apollo said urgently, "Help me get her out."
Ever so carefully, they lifted her out and set her on the floor.
Apollo put a life mask on her and gently lifted her up, "While I'm
holding her I won't be able to shoot, so you're the bodyguard,"
he told Starbuck, "Take my gun as well as your own. Hopefully our
uniforms will hide her, too, but they may not."
"Understood,
Captain." Starbuck took both blasters.
Together at last, the three warriors left the room.
"I've never seen that kind of ship before," Athena whispered to Omega. They were on the bridge of the Galactica, monitoring the fighter fight. The mid-size oval ship glided silently and swiftly toward the fleet. The pattern of windows and jets on top of the ivory silver ship resembled a death's head. In front, a large gaping hole disclosed the ship's sizable launching bay.
Omega leaned close to Athena so she would hear him, "It's a Cylon transport ship. They haven't been used in over a hundred yahrens."
Athena shook her head, "First a gunship, now this! Where are all these old ships coming from?"
Shrugging, Omega replied, "Beats me."
As small Cylon fighter craft emerged from the hole, the fight continued to intensify. It was looking grim, indeed for the Colonials. They were already tired from all the previous fighting. They were holding their own, but barely, as the tireless machines relentlessly attacked. The Cylons were not only targeting the battlestar and the fighters, but the civilian ships as well. Hope was diminishing with each laser strike.
"Do you remember the way out?" Apollo yelled to Starbuck. The Cylon base had grown very noisy very quickly. Cylons were tromping everywhere, making it difficult to avoid touching them accidentally.
Starbuck nodded, "This way!" he dashed sideways down a hall, trying to watch fore and aft at the same time, one gun pointed in each direction. Apollo was close at his side, holding Celeste. They rushed in this way down the corridor towards what they hoped was the exit.
Suddenly, a glistening silver wall of Cylons appeared ahead of them.
"Whoops!" cried Starbuck, halting.
The Cylons were blocking the way out.
Starbuck grinned nervously, "Your orders, Captain?"
Apollo gave a determined nod, "We can't risk trying to find a way around. We'll have to go through them."
"Right," Starbuck eyed the mass of chrome warily, "Here goes nothing." He let loose a barrage of laser fire from both guns straight into the Cylons, cutting a path through them. Before they could regroup, he hurried through, kicking the fallen centurions out of Apollo's way as he went.
Apollo was right behind him.
The gunfire had alerted the Cylons to trouble. The base began locking down. All around, doors began closing.
The two running pilots reached the last door as it was four feet to the ground. Starbuck ducked under, then helped Apollo roll Celeste under as the captain wriggled through.
"Watch her head!" Starbuck cautioned unnecessarily.
The door closed.
The men paused to take a breath.
"Now that," Starbuck gasped, "was a rescue!"
"Yeah," Apollo hugged Celeste close to himself and closed his eyes, telling himself gladly that she was safely in his arms. "Let's go home."
"You got it!" Starbuck began heading for the ship, "assuming we've still got one."
Apollo said nothing as he followed, noting the faint beating of the young woman's heart against his own. It seemed a physical manifestation of the feeling that they were very quickly running out of time.
Onboard the Lemonade, Starbuck and Apollo were racing home.
"I don't know," Starbuck mused, taking his turn in the main cockpit, "Now that I think about it, that escape was almost too easy. I mean, you'd think the Cylons would have noticed this thing landing right near their base."
"Maybe Serina hid it, too." Apollo's voice suggested doubtfully.
Starbuck sighed, "I just have this uneasy feeling. No Cylons came after us when we left the planet. I can't help wondering why."
"Because I told them not to," said a third voice. It was on the comm., but it sounded as though it was also right behind Starbuck.
Starbuck twisted around in the seat and his jaw dropped. Celeste was standing in the doorway between the main cockpit and the passenger/cargo hold.
"Celeste?" Starbuck and Apollo exclaimed at the same time.
"What are you doing on the comm.?" Apollo demanded, "You should be lying down!"
Starbuck recovered enough to ask incredulously, "And since when do Cylons listen to an order from you?"
Celeste looked at him. At least, she seemed physically to look at him, but her expression was blank. It was as though she wasn't looking at anything, or perhaps not anything in the Lemonade. "The answers will become clear to you as soon as you land."
Then Starbuck noticed her eyes. He stared into them. They were like shadowy holes leading to some lower dimension of thought and reason, as dark blue as nights in the Caprican countryside. They were captivating, but not in the same way they usually were. Gone was the glow of life, the spark of azure flame that had always inhabited them. In its place was emptiness. Only pure, dark emptiness.
Starbuck looked into the emptiness and despaired for his friend and sister. The machine. She just came out of the machine. She'll recover, and she'll be fine. Starbuck, when did you become such a worrier? He chided himself, that machine is hades, but she's been through hades before. With a little time and maybe a pyramid game or two, she'll be right as skywater.
Without blinking or saying another word, Celeste turned and went back into the hold, closing the door behind her. There was a click as she turned off her comm. unit.
"What was that all about?" Apollo asked.
Starbuck turned back around and ran a hand quickly though his hair, "Ahh, you know Celeste. Can't keep her out of a cockpit for long."
"I meant, what was she talking about."
Starbuck shook his head, wishing he could be rid of the feeling of foreboding that had sprung up in his head, "I guess we find out when we land."
"Starbuck, where are we going?" Apollo asked, breaking the lieutenant out of his thoughts.
Starbuck checked the heading, "The Galactica," he answered certainly, "Wait a micron…the heading's changed! I didn't change it!"
"You didn't? Who did?"
Fingers flying, Starbuck tried to get the ship's computer to give him information, "I guess the ship did. And…I can't reset the coordinates!"
"You mean that the Lemonade hijacked itself?" Apollo's voice sounded skeptical, "Where is it taking us?"
"Uh," Starbuck calculated the course. He blinked at the result and tried again. Same result. "Apollo, it's taking us back around that planet!"
"Send a distress signal to the Galactica and keep trying to get control," Apollo ordered, "I'll see what I can do from up here."
"Yes, Sir," Starbuck replied. He switched off the comm. transmitter and muttered, "Why would this thing…" then he stopped as an idea hit him. "Celeste." He switched the comm. back on, "Apollo, what if Celeste has something to do with this? I mean…when she came up here she didn't seem herself."
"I was just thinking the same thing, why don't you go check on her?" Apollo suggested.
"Good idea." Starbuck unstrapped his safety belt and opened the door into the hold. He walked in, noticing that the lights had been dimmed.
He found Celeste, as he had suspected, hard at work on an access panel.
"Celeste, what are you doing?" Starbuck asked.
For a while, she ignored him. He thought she hadn't heard him until she suddenly looked up at him. Her vacant midnight eyes bored into his, seeming to look right through him. She said nothing, and momentarily returned to her work.
"Hey," Starbuck approached her, the hair on the back of his neck tingling, "It's me, Starbuck. You can tell me…maybe I can help."
"I do not require assistance." Celeste said, her voice completely void of emotion.
Against his intuition, Starbuck continued to move toward her.
She stiffened.
He took a step.
She paused.
He took a step.
And she whirled on him in a fraction of an eye blink, shoving him away from her, hard, without touching him at all. Her hand was more than five feet away, yet it was holding him against the ship's bulkhead.
"I said," she rumbled, "I do not require assistance."
She released him and watched the astonished man recompose himself.
Starbuck straightened his jacket and held up his own hand defensively, "Okay, okay, I won't try to assist you. But, Celeste…"
Without warning, she raised her hand again, this time grabbing Starbuck's throat and lifting him off the ground, yelling "Stop calling me that!"
"Why?" Starbuck gasped in frustration, "It's your name!"
"You are mistaken," Celeste hissed, "the inferior person you speak of no longer exists. She is gone, dead to the universe. I exist in her place; a superior being of limitless power and knowledge of the ancients. I command the dark forces of the universe, against which there will be no victory!" She dropped Starbuck unceremoniously to the floor.
Starbuck glared at her, "And you are?"
"My name," the woman answered, "Is Isis."
Starbuck couldn't resist remarking on her speech, "Well, you know
what they say."
The woman cocked her head menacingly.
"Absolute power corrupts absolutely." Starbuck finished. His eyes ran to the panel she'd been working on.
Her eyes narrowed, following his gaze.
He gasped, "What are you doing?" Starbuck rushed to the panel and inspected her handiwork, "You're trying to set the self-destruct sequence!"
Isis strode up to Starbuck and whispered, "Why would I do a thing like that?" And she punched him, hard. Observing his state of unconsciousness, she rolled him out of her way and continued her task.
"Starbuck?" Apollo tried the comm. after hearing nothing from the lieutenant for quite some time, "Hey, you back yet?"
He got no answer.
He should have been back by now. What's he doing down there, playing Pyramid? Apollo frowned, "Lt. Starbuck, do you read me?"
No answer.
"All right then, I'm coming down there." He set the autopilot and unstrapped. It's not as if we're going anywhere anyway with this ship stuck in orbit. He opened a hatch in the floor and climbed down a ladder leading into the hold.
"Starbuck?" Apollo called, "Celeste?"
He walked further into the hold and saw Starbuck lying flat on the ground. He rushed to his friend, "Starbuck!"
The lieutenant had a very black eye, but other than that seemed fine. He moaned, moving his head a little.
"Starbuck," Apollo said.
Starbuck blinked, winced, and got his bearings, "Apollo?"
"Are you all right?" Apollo asked, "What happened?"
Sitting up, Starbuck winced, "I'm fine, ooh, got a headache like a supernova, but I'm in one piece at least." He slowly stood up, "Could have been worse. As for your second question, I'm not sure what happened."
Apollo nodded, looking around, "Where's Celeste?"
"That," Starbuck replied, "Is another good question. My guess is after knocking me out cold and setting self destruct, she hightailed it out of here."
"Celeste did that to you?" Apollo gave Starbuck a disbelieving glance. He pointed to Starbuck's eye.
"Not Celeste exactly," Starbuck said defensively, "Seems someone named Isis has taken over her body and is bent on destroying us. And she has a pretty decent right hook."
Apollo glared in concentration, "Isis…that's what Iblis called her in his recording."
"I'd bet a secton's pay he's behind this." Starbuck responded bitterly.
The captain had turned to examine the open panel, "She set self-destruct all right."
Starbuck moved to look, too, "She certainly knew what she was doing. No doubt she has access to Celeste's memories on how this bucket of bolts was put together."
Apollo shot him a foreboding look, "If she knows everything Celeste knows…"
"Then she knows a lot more about Cylons than anyone would want to," Starbuck finished quickly, "Now, think we can get this self-destruct turned off?"
Shaking his head, Apollo looked at the tangled wires and buttons in the panel opening, "We can try."
The Lemonade remained serenely in orbit, an internal clock ticking away its final moments. Planet side, the person who had set that clock was just striding into a darkened room. Isis bowed to a figure seated high on a throne.
"It is done, my Master. All is as you said it would be," she reported, her voice low and unemotional.
Iblis smiled, "Excellent, my child, excellent. It's time for your next assignment."
Isis averted her eyes to the floor.
"What is it, my Valkyrie?" Iblis asked her.
"What of the Seraphs?" she asked in response, "What if they assist The One and his comrade again?"
Though Isis sensed his apprehension, Iblis didn't allow it to show outwardly, "They wouldn't dare interfere a second time. The end of my reign is too near, and I doubt very much that they could already be aware of the power of my throne's heir."
Isis nodded, "The humans will probably not wish to destroy me right away, and they will likely retain hope of regaining this body's previous owner." Her deep eye roiled like the seas of Aquarius, yet her demeanor remained eerily calm.
"Yes," Iblis regarded her thoughtfully, "yes, I do believe they will try to do just that. Without success of course. The humans are far too primitive to know how to use The Key or they would have used it long before now," He gave a nod to Isis, "Now go, complete your task and bring me your prisoner."
Isis didn't blink, "As you delivered him to the Colonials, so shall he be delivered to you."
"Very good," Iblis said, "I await your return."
With another bow, Isis vanished.
As soon as she was gone, Iblis allowed his human form to fade into his true form; a hideous demon-like creature with glowing eyes and a face twisted by evil. The entity slumped in the throne, gurgling pathetically. Remaining in human form even long enough to talk to Isis had been an incredibly draining effort. Iblis groaned at how weak he'd become. It was only a matter of time now.
On the bridge of the Galactica, amidst the clamor of machinery, reports, and orders, a red light blinked on a console. A low tone accompanied the light, but was lost in the myriad of other sounds. The light blinked and blinked and blinked, unnoticed, as all around it the battlestar shook.
Not one officer was aware how much was riding on that little red light.
Starbuck growled in frustration, "According to this, we've got about three centons before this hunk of felgercarb blows us to bits." He glared at the panel, "Where's the Galactica when you need her?"
"Still fighting, most likely," Apollo replied grimly, up to his arms in the Lemonade's innards.
"Frack!" said Starbuck for the fourteenth time in half as many centons. He scowled at the wiring he'd been trying to undo.
Apollo gave him an understanding disgusted look.
The fight between the Raiders and the Vipers raged on.
"Hey Boomer?"
"Yeah, Zac, what is it?"
"What's that blinking thing on the edge of the scanner screen? Looks like a ship's distress signal, but it's way behind the fleet."
"I don't know…Zac, that's the Lemonade!"
"It is?"
"Shuttle signal, Viper signature, what else could it be? Apollo and Starbuck are in trouble!"
"Well, we'd better go help them!"
"Zac…the fleet!"
"The fleet needs the Lemonade and her two best pilots!"
"Well, you do have a point," Boomer smiled at Zac's enthusiasm, "Jolly, take over as Flight Leader."
"Sure thing, Boomer." Jolly replied.
Boomer turned his Viper, "Zac, let's go."
Baltar fumed in his cell on the prison barge. He plotted. He paced. He muttered. He cursed. But no amount of ill feelings would free him.
"If you work up a sweat, you'll soil your clothes."
Baltar jumped at the voice. Being the only prisoner on that row, he had thought he was alone in his misery. He walked to the transparent door of the cell and looked out. To his astonishment, his visitor was none other than Lt. Celeste! She smirked at him.
"Wha, what are you doing here?" Baltar demanded, utterly bewildered.
The young woman's unusually dark eyes flashed. She held up her hand. A cell key card materialized between her fingers.
Now Baltar was really confused.
"My Master wants to speak to you," she said.
Baltar frowned, "What could Adama want with me at a time like this?" The barge rumbled with the sounds of the battle raging around them.
"No!" the woman spat, "Is your mind so limited, Baltar, that you do not recognize me for what I am?" She gave him a condescending look, "It is no wonder the Master chose to mold me for his heir rather than you."
Baltar's pale face went paler. He leaned forward into the door and hissed, "Iblis?"
Saying nothing, the woman stuck the card into the door lock. The cell door slid open, and Baltar stepped out, eying what appeared to be his old nemesis, "So, you're not Lt. Celeste anymore?"
"I am Isis," the woman smiled darkly, "Much more powerful than that Celeste person."
Isis nodded slowly to him, "So watch your step. I do possess her temper."
Baltar gulped.
With that, both vanished from the prison barge.
"There they are!" Zac cried, spotting the mottled hull of the Lemonade.
"I see 'em." Boomer replied.
"What are they doing?" Zac asked bewilderedly, watching the ship in orbit.
"Boomer to Captain Apollo," Boomer tried, "Boomer to Starbuck."
"Boomer!" Zac gasped, "The computer reads a countdown on board the Lemonade! They've got a self-destruct sequence running!"
"Apollo, Starbuck, come in!" Boomer's voice instantly became more urgent. "Must be a malfunction on that benighted contraption!" He banged the viper panels with a fist in frustration. Then he had an idea, "Zac, do you know where the destruct mechanism is located on that thing?"
"In a normal shuttle, it would be the main thrusters." Zac replied, "Might be different on that thing."
"We have no choice. On my mark, target the thrusters." Boomer flipped on his targeting computer. He wanted it to be as accurate a shot as possible.
"What if we hurt one of them by accident?" Zac cried.
Boomer sighed in response, "That's a risk we have to take. It would be better than them being blown to bits. Now remember to target where the thrusters meet the ship. Otherwise, we'll set off a chain reaction just as well as the destruction mechanism would. Ready?"
"I guess."
"Fire!"
The Lemonade rocked with the explosive impact of the Viper lasers.
"What in the name of the Lords of Kobal was that?" Starbuck yelled, struggling to keep his balance.
"I don't know!" Apollo cried back. He made his way to the main cockpit to check it out, while Starbuck examined the wiring they'd been desperately trying to repair.
"It was Zac and Boomer!" came Apollo's voice from the cockpit.
"First Celeste and now them?" Starbuck groaned, "What does everyone have against this ship anyway?" Then he noticed the countdown timer.
It had stopped at fourty microns.
In the cockpit, the comm crackled to life.
"Boomer to Apollo, come in Apollo!"
Apollo grinned as he flicked on the transmitter, "This is Apollo. Thanks for the target practice, guys."
"Anytime, Captain." Boomer replied.
"Hopefully not anytime soon," Zac added.
"Are you both all right in there?" Boomer asked, "Where's Starbuck?"
Apollo's grin faded, "We're both doing okay, but…"
"But what?" Zac pressed.
Sighing, Apollo replied, "It's a long story, but we found Celeste."
"You did!" Zac cheered.
"I'm not finished," Apollo interrupted his little brother's celebration, "She wasn't really Celeste. It was some evil being called Isis, who looked like her. She's who set the self-destruct."
"Kobal," breathed Boomer.
"So," Zac moved his viper alongside the Lemonade, "How are we going to get her back?"
"I don't know," was Apollo's sad response, "But we're not going to get very far without thrusters."
Starbuck walked into the cockpit, "I just checked. Celeste thought to pack a spare thruster assembly in the cargo bin."
Apollo looked down in thought, "We'll have to land on the planet again."
"I'm really getting sick of that place," Starbuck shook his head.
"We'll escort you in." Boomer suggested.
The three small ships descended into the planet's atmosphere.
Iblis narrowed his eyes at Isis, "Your friends escaped! They have landed their ships near the edge of the woods."
Isis stared coldly at Iblis, "What do you wish, Master?"
"I want you to lead a garrison out to terminate those humans once and for all!" Iblis grinned, "It will be a final test of your loyalty to me."
"By your command," Isis bowed and left to gather her garrison.
Iblis watched her leave, frowning. She was not as eager to do his bidding as he would have liked. Oh well, she would learn enthusiasm with time.
Isis and her Cylons tromped out of the base, fully armed. She wore a silver helmet and heavy laser-proof armor, and carried a long Cylon rifle. Leading the way, she headed down the canyon. Her feet and heartbeat kept time with the marching Cylon footsteps. For an instant, her unblinking eyes fluttered. Then she was once again caught up in the business of the hunt.
They walked for at least a centare across the plain separating the canyon from the woods. It was slow going in all that armor, but the tireless leader drove the centurions onward. They reached the edge of the woods, and Isis raised her gun. She had seen the two vipers and the armed shuttle camouflaged under foliage. Though they were covered fairly well, she recognized their shapes immediately.
She paused, eyes sparkling. Gasping, she blinked. The sparkling stopped. Standing as tall as she could, Isis made the gesture that would send the Cylons into the woods.
They all started moving.
"Halt!" Isis commanded, having second thoughts.
The Cylons obeyed.
Isis strode forward, "I do not need a whole garrison to dispatch a few humans. To prove myself, I will take only two centurions. The rest shall stay here until further orders."
"BY YOUR COMMAND," all of the Cylons said simultaneously.
Nodding to two of them, Isis set off down the path, guessing correctly that the humans had set up camp near Qasha's cabin.
Zac yawned as he sat on a log near the cabin. It was so peaceful on the planet: Cylon base or no Cylon base. He knew that far off in space, the fleet would likely still be fighting, if there was anyone left. Zac looked up. Through the trees, he saw diamond-like stars glistening against a blanket of velvet. Peaceful, regardless of the treacheries and danger they held.
"You coming to dinner, Little Brother?" Apollo asked softly. Zac hadn't noticed him approach.
"Yeah, in a micron," Zac smiled at the captain. Apollo smiled back, but Zac could tell it was forced.
"Don't worry," Zac said earnestly, "The fleet'll be fine, I just know it! Jolly and Ajax and the others will take care of things 'till we get back."
"I know," said Apollo uncertainly.
"And the Lemonade 's ready to go first thing tomorrow when we get up." Zac added.
"Mmhmm." Apollo seemed distracted.
"And planet-swallowing croakers will hop out of the sky and zap up all of the Cylons with their mega-fibro tongues." Zac sighed, trying to get Apollo's attention.
"Yeah," Apollo agreed without having heard a word Zac had said.
"Apollo…" Zac cocked his head. He heard a faint whirring and clanking, "did you leave the cook stove on?"
"No," Apollo frowned, "Why?"
Zac frowned too, "I hear something."
"Now that you mention it," Apollo listened, "It's coming from the woods."
"It's getting louder," Zac remarked nervously, "And it sounds like…"
A pulse beam shot from the trees and exploded on the log next to Zac.
"Cylons!"
The two men ducked behind the log just in time to avoid a volley of laser fire.
"Halt!" someone ordered.
The firing stopped.
Zac turned to Apollo, confusion in his eyes, "That wasn't a Cylon. That sounded like Celeste!"
"It was." Apollo's expression was troubled.
Celeste's voice called out again, this time addressing Zac and Apollo, "You are surrounded. Surrender or die."
"At least she gets to the point," Zac said sarcastically.
Apollo switched into "captain" mode, "Zac, get inside and warn Boomer and Starbuck. Have them ready with blasters to defend themselves."
"What are you going to do?" Zac asked.
"Don't ask questions, just do as I say," Apollo ordered, "Now go!"
Zac and Apollo stood. Zac started dashing and the Cylons started firing. Apollo stepped out and distracted them.
"I surrender!" Apollo lied, holding up his hands.
"Cease fire!" Isis called. She stepped out of the shadows, looking Apollo straight in the eye. Apollo tensed uncomfortably, his heart flopping in his throat.
"Captain Apollo," Isis crooned, "What ever are you doing in my forest?"
Apollo gave her an angry glare, "I was about to ask you what you are doing in my friend."
Isis smiled thinly, "A predictable response from a predictable being. I suppose you'll try to get me to give you back your precious Celeste."
The captain continued to glare, hoping he was buying the others enough time to prepare.
Isis continued, "Well I couldn't even if I wanted to," she pretended to inspect her gloved nails, "You see, the personality you know as Lt. Celeste is dead. Her mind was erased to make room for me."
"I refuse to believe that." Apollo stated.
"It's true," Isis nodded once, "Frankly, I don't know how you humans can stand to exist in something so…limited as this single-brain-thing of yours."
"We manage," Apollo replied curtly.
Isis returned his glare, "Indeed you do. But I'm afraid your Lt. Celeste no longer does even that."
"If she's really gone, why don't you kill me?" Apollo demanded, "That's what you want, isn't it? To kill everyone?"
Isis blinked frantically. She closed her eyes tight. When she opened them, they were glowing.
"But there's something inside you stopping you," Apollo persisted, "If there wasn't, we'd all be dead, easily."
Isis shook her head and looked away, her eyes sparkling and roiling.
"You could have killed Starbuck without even thinking about it on the Lemonade," Apollo pointed out, "But you didn't. Apparently you don't take up as much space in Celeste's brain as you claim you do."
"Enough! Agh!" Isis cried out as her eyes glowed sky-blue. Shaking, she looked at Apollo with a haunted expression. Tears streamed from her illuminated eyes. For just a moment. Then the expression, the glow, and the tears all disappeared, replaced by Isis' impassive mask.
"I saw that!" Apollo exclaimed.
Isis opened her mouth, but it was Celeste who spoke, "Sorry…so…sorry…please…get out of here! Kill her…she's killing me…"
Regaining control, Isis barked, "You have no place here, human!" She raised her pulse rifle to Apollo and…didn't fire. She tried, but her fingers wouldn't cooperate.
Then the woods vanished. Or rather, she and her Cylons did.
Apollo slumped onto the log, exhausted and grieved. Zac, Starbuck, and Boomer rushed out to him from where they'd been watching inside the cabin.
"Isis is gone." Apollo told them.
Starbuck raised his eyebrows, "At least we know Celeste is still in there."
"Yes," Zac nodded, "But for how long?"
Remembering the horror on Celeste's face, and in her words, Apollo closed his eyes. Hang in there, Celeste. Please.
She's strong, Apollo. Serina said encouragingly.
Apollo sighed, I hope she's strong enough.
"ISIS!" Iblis yelled at her, "What was that HESITATION?"
Isis stood stoically before him, letting his rage wash over her. Her eyes were flickering madly as she fought to keep that nasty Celeste from regaining control.
"You were sent to do one simple thing, and you failed." Iblis tried to calm himself, "You are weak. I gave you everything you needed to destroy the humans, but you didn't do it!"
Isis' mouth twitched.
"Now," Iblis stood up, "I have no choice but to destroy you."
Calmly, Isis raised one hand, "Allow me to destroy Celeste. If I am successful, there is no need to destroy me, your only heir."
"Hmm," Iblis mused, "You have a point."
"Of course I do…agh!" Isis melted and her eyes widened. Celeste had retaken control, "You can't win, Iblis! I know the secret, the Key, and I know someone will use it before the senton is through!"
"Isis! Kill her!" Iblis yelled, "before I do!"
Celeste and Isis vanished into a swirl of dark gases, while her body lay on the ground. There were screams and cries as the two entities fought for control. Finally, the gases dispersed. The woman's eyes opened.
Iblis sneered, "you have done it! You have killed her. Now, my Valkyrie, you will serve my cause for all eternity!"
The woman sat up, her face blank. She turned to look at Iblis, "I didn't kill her."
"What?" Iblis gave her a dangerous look.
"Her own darkness destroyed her," The woman replied. Celeste's haggard blue eyes glowed with burning as she faced the being that had once killed her captain.
"How…many people have you killed, though? Huh?" she staggered towards him, hoping it was in a threatening manner, "You destroyed…the original Cylon race. You…nearly wiped out…the human race. What were you going to do…once we were gone?" her voice seemed to get stronger, "Fabricate someone to kill?" she coughed and continued, "You burnt our cities, captured our worlds, and tortured our pilots. Our culture is in ruin and society is in disarray. But there are some things that not even you can destroy. And the strongest thing will destroy you. The key…will be…your downfall." She stood before him on weakened legs.
Iblis watched amusedly as Celeste struggled to breathe, "An eloquent speech my dear, but how do you plan to back up such grand words when you can barely stand up?"
Taking a shaky breath, Celeste couldn't resist a cocky grin. At least, it made a valiant effort to be cocky, "That's…the…great thing…" she gasped, willing her lungs to hold out just a little while longer, "I don't have to…do anything."
"How fortunate for you," Iblis replied dryly.
Sinking to her knees, Celeste gasped again, "Isn't it?"
As though watching a groundworm drown in a puddle, Iblis observed Celeste struggle to stay conscious. He knew, as did she, that the fight with Isis had drained what was little of her resources that had survived the machine. Her body was shutting down, worn ragged by the atrocities that had been forced relentlessly through it.
A gleam of pleasure appeared in Iblis' dull black eyes as he relished the inevitability of her condition…and the anguish her death would give Captain Apollo and Lt Starbuck. Revenge, in its way, would be served.
"Perhaps I should call in Baltar," Iblis mused out loud, "I'm certain he would enjoy seeing this."
Celeste could only glare as she doubled over, coughing.
"Baltar," Iblis called, "Won't you join us?"
Two Cylon centurions arrived with Baltar, who was confined in an energy beam generated by devices carried by the Cylons. The human traitor's face lit up with evil satisfaction as he recognized Celeste, barely coherent, on the floor, coughing spatters of blood onto her hands.
"Well, well," Baltar beamed, "You've finally accomplished the impossible, Count Iblis, I must congratulate you."
"Yes," Iblis feigned nonchalance, "Take a good look, because you're next."
Baltar's smug grin faded, "What?"
"Oh yes," Iblis said disinterestedly, "I've had the machine readied. I just thought you would like to see this before your brain was annihilated."
"But…but…I thought…I'm on your side!" Baltar sputtered.
Iblis regarded Baltar with disgust, "You do not understand by now that I am the only being 'on my side'? You were simply a pawn. I have no further use for you, as my forces are even now finishing off the humans."
"But…I mean, are you sure?" Baltar tried to plead, "Surely there is some use you can think of for me to serve you…"
"Hmm…" Iblis feigned thought, "No."
Suddenly, Iblis said, "Glaak!"
This was because someone's hands had tightened around his throat just as he was swallowing. The result was a sound that very much resembled, "Glaak!"
Iblis stared in surprise at the flickering blue eyes of Lt. Celeste, whose shaking hands still possessed enough strength to prevent him from talking. She matched his threatening attitude glare-for-glare as she spat, "Let…Baltar…go."
Baltar was shocked into silence.
Iblis gagged and tried to push Celeste away with his hands.
The Cylons watched impassively.
Iblis managed to croak out, "You…don't…hate…him?"
Glancing at Baltar, Celeste replied, "Why should I? He was…just taking orders…from you."
A strange thing happened to Iblis. His dark spirit seemed to shrink back in horror. His eyes bugged out as he turned pale. With one weakened thrust of power, he broke from Celeste, sending her sprawling. Gasping, much as she had been only moments before, Iblis stood and towered over Celeste. He didn't see her quick blink toward the Cylons that silently shut them down and set Baltar free. Actually, all he saw were spots until enough air had reentered his being.
Then he was back, but now Celeste knew his secret. Iblis was now mortal.
Celeste thought hard, trying to send a message into Baltar's brain. Go! While I've got him occupied!
Baltar nodded and started to slip out, but stopped. He didn't trust this. Why are you doing this, Lt. Celeste? What are you up to?
As Iblis roughly lifted Celeste into the air, she fought to understand it herself. Because no one should go through that machine. Not even the dirtiest of traitors. Not even you. Celeste paused in her struggle, just as surprised as Baltar to find out that she truly believed that.
Baltar, in his utter astonishment, was rooted to the spot.
Go! Celeste thought as Iblis bashed her against a wall, I won't be able to distract him much longer!
As the back of her head connected hard with the wall, her spotting vision failed altogether. She couldn't see Baltar standing confused by the door, nor Iblis' insane expression, though she could hear his maniacal laughter ringing in her ears.
So this is it, she thought as she was engulfed in numbness, funny, I always thought I'd go out in a blaze of glory, not beat to a pulp by an ancient evil lord of darkness deep in an underground Cylon base. I hope everyone's not too broken up when they find out…
Her mind caved and her surroundings became nothing but a bombardment of evil; relentless and unbearable. It was much like being in the Machine. The evil continued for what seemed like lifetimes, until its end was all she craved. Even if it meant sinking into the dark pit of oblivion she'd been teetering on the edge of since the Machine. But for some reason, her soul wouldn't give up.
Only briefly did a coherent thought surface. In a final act of defiance of death, her body translated the thought to words and sent it out her mouth.
"I'll be seeing you!"
Then Celeste passed out.
And Iblis was lying on the ground, hit by a Cylon rifle. Not dead, but severely rendered unconscious. Baltar dropped the rifle and chuckled at Iblis. Then he looked at Celeste lying still on the floor. How easily she could have reversed things, he thought, She could have used my escape as a distraction for Iblis so that she could escape, or at the very least take me down with her. But she didn't. I don't understand.
As Baltar looked uncomprehendingly at the fallen warrior, he imagined he could see the life draining from her each moment. She's dying.
Iblis stirred and Baltar decided it was time he departed.
Apollo stirred in his sleep. Something was knocking. Sounded like wood. Wood on the Galactica? He opened one eye. Not the Galactica: A cabin, Qasha's old place. Someone was knocking at the door.
Groggily, Apollo stood up. As he headed to the door, he absently checked his timepiece, Kobal, who would be knocking at this time of night. Wait. Everyone's in here with me except the Cylons. But Cylons don't knock.
Reaching for the latch, Apollo pulled the door open slightly. Seeing who it was, he quickly slammed it shut.
"Please Captain!" said Baltar from outside, "I understand how you feel, and I know it's early, but I really need to talk to you!"
Taking his blaster, Apollo sidled up to the door, "We're talking now."
"It's not something you can discuss through a closed door." Baltar cajoled.
"I'm not going to fall for any of your tricks!" Apollo called.
"It's not a trick!" Baltar cried, "It's a plea from a fellow human being who needs a ride off this planet." He sounded confused, "And also…it's your friend Lt. Celeste. I think she's dying."
A sharp feeling stabbed at Apollo's chest as he choked, "That's old news, Baltar."
"No! I mean she's here!" Baltar's voice rose urgently, "You've still got time. If you can get her to the Galactica she may have a chance!"
Apollo opened the door a crack. He could see the other man's eyes nearly crazed with desperation.
"Might I ask why her survival is suddenly so important to you?" Apollo asked dryly.
Baltar's white face dropped and a stunned expression took over from the desperate one, "She…saved my life…saved me from Count Iblis."
Something tore at Apollo's heart. Serina whispered, Baltar speaks the truth. Strange as it may sound, she did save Baltar. If you hurry, you can still save her. She hasn't given up the fight yet.
Reluctantly and hesitantly, Apollo opened the door and stepped out.
Baltar gazed intently at him, as though worried that Apollo might go back inside, "She's right here."
Apollo knelt down beside the still figure of Celeste. He said nothing as he brushed twigs from her hair. I've got to stop seeing you like this, Celeste. My poor heart can't take it, he thought sadly. He noticed that she was barely breathing and took her pulse. It was so weak, he could barely tell it was there at all.
Without a word to Baltar, he called into the cabin, "Starbuck! Boomer! Zac! Get out here!"
They came, sleepily, waking up immediately when they saw the situation.
"Get the ships ready to go!" Apollo ordered hoarsely, "We're leaving immediately!"
They all dashed into the woods, and Apollo reached down and gently picked up Celeste. Cradling the pilot, he followed them down the path. Baltar trailed behind.
Apollo felt a sense of deja-vu from the numerous times he'd been on this planet, the numerous times he'd carried an injured Celeste, and the numerous times he'd been worried about her chances for survival. But this time, he sensed, was different. He could feel her fading fast, even as he held her tightly. With each hurried stride, her legs limply struck his. With each of her ever-shallower breaths, her skin grew paler. With each moment, she slipped further and further from him.
At last, the yellow and gray hull of the Lemonade was visible through the trees. Apollo dashed toward it with all of his energy on getting Celeste safely inside.
Zac opened the back of the ship so that Apollo could run right inside. He carried Celeste into the vessel that she'd built with her own, more-than-capable hands.
Ever so gently, Apollo set her down on one of the two fold-out beds. He again felt for her pulse and grimaced, barely noticing his friends approaching with Baltar in tow. Baltar was quickly relating to them his version of the events leading to his escape and subsequent attack of conscience.
But none of that was important to Apollo right now. All he wanted was for Celeste to miraculously recover and be her old self again.
Tell her, Apollo Serina urged.
Tell her what?
Apollo could almost see Serina sigh, Tell her how you feel about her!
What good would it do now? Apollo thought bitterly.
Serina answered, you'd be surprised.
Starbuck cleared his throat. Apollo hadn't even noticed Baltar finish his tale.
Standing awkwardly in the doorway, Starbuck looked at Celeste, "We're ready to go when you are."
Apollo nodded slowly.
Starbuck winced sadly and nodded back, "Okay guys, fire 'em up! Let's get home!"
Baltar joined Apollo in the Lemonade, while Starbuck, Boomer, and Zac left to pilot the three ships.
Apollo watched them go, and watched Baltar silently walk past him and strap himself into a seat.
If it wasn't for Celeste, Zac and Starbuck wouldn't be here. Apollo sighed heavily, neither would Baltar, apparently. She is one remarkable person. Too wonderful to lose. Too valuable…and…
Tell her that, Serina nagged.
Serina…
Don't you think she deserves to know?
Well, Apollo looked at the pale figure, a strong and spirited person reduced to nearly nothing by an enemy she'd stood up to, I can't argue with that.
"Celeste?" he choked, feeling the ship vibrating beneath him as they lifted off, "I know it's a bad time. I should have told you sooner. But I guess it's now or never," his throat caught on the last word as he realized that barring a miracle, it was absolutely right, "Celeste…" he tried to control the shaking in his voice, "Celeste, I love you."
And, Serina prompted.
"And what's more," Apollo paused to gather his emotions, "I'm in love with you."
There. He'd said it. He had admitted it to Celeste, to Serina, and to himself. No one in the universe could take it back now. Not even death could change it.
With a silent sob, Apollo sat on the bed, scooping into a heartrending embrace the still body of the second woman he'd truly loved and lost to her own valiance. He gazed at her closed eyelids, wishing against hope for even a small glimpse of blue.
How he longed for her eyes to flash with good-natured sparks as her lips spouted sarcastic wit! How he wished that she was in the cockpit now, that she was the one holding the controls. Or perhaps arguing with him that she should be.
How he remembered those special times when things had been almost romantic between them. What a couple they could have been! He would have made time to take her to special dinners and recreation. He should have. But he'd always been afraid to admit that he loved her. He'd been afraid of being hurt again.
And now it was too late.
Apollo blinked at his tears, watching them fall onto Celeste's face. He remembered the night on that same godforsaken planet when the tears had been her own, and he'd longed to take her in his arms and comfort her.
He wiped the tears from her gray skin, telling himself that it was really too late for thoughts of love and romance. It was time to say goodbye.
Placing her carefully back onto the bed, Apollo let his lips briefly brush hers in farewell.
Captain Apollo stood and saluted her, and went to seat himself farther forward in the compartment. He wanted to be alone in his thoughts, without Celeste's still form in view.
Which is a shame, for had she been in his view, he would have seen spots of pale pink appearing on her deathly white skin.
"Lemonade to Galactica control, request emergency landing run." Starbuck stared at the battlestar looming before them and gritted his teeth, waiting for a reply. The seconds dragged like hours before Athena's voice replied.
"This is Galactica control. You are cleared for landing in Beta bay."
"Make sure there's a team of med-techs down there waiting for us," Starbuck said, flying toward the starboard bay.
"Planning on a rough landing, pilot?" Athena asked.
"This is no time for teasing, Athena!" Starbuck urgently cried, "We found Celeste, and she's in bad shape. Just make sure someone's there to meet us. Security, too: we've got Baltar."
"I read you, Starbuck. Sending teams now. Take it nice and easy," Athena advised.
"Lemonade out." Starbuck tried to relax as he brought the ship down into the bay. She'll be all right. She'll be all right. She has to be all right. Frack, Celeste, why do you have to get into so much trouble?
As soon as the landing gear touched down and the engines were off, Starbuck was out. The med-tech team was already taking Celeste out of the ship on a stretcher. Starbuck blinked. She looks…better than when I last saw her. Must be the distance.
"Watch her head!" Starbuck called to the med-techs, eliciting a dirty look from one of them.
Boomer and Zac landed in the bay, but it appeared they were just there to refuel. Starbuck realized he'd forgotten about the fight he'd just flown through. He ignored the security detail that came for Baltar. Instead, he stood by Apollo as they watched the med-techs take Celeste away.
Starbuck started to follow, but Apollo caught him, "It's not over yet, buddy. We've got to get to our fighters."
"What?" Starbuck whirled on Apollo, his blue eyes flashing fiercely.
"Those pilots out there need help." Apollo's words were sure, "We're the best hope they've got right now…"
"Celeste needs us!" Starbuck interrupted, "I can't believe you don't want to be there for her…after all she's been through!"
"I
do," Apollo replied firmly, "But she's in the best possible
care. There's nothing more we can do for her. We can do something
for the other pilots. It's our duty to do our jobs…"
"Celeste
is in there dying and you're out here talking about duty?"
the lieutenant stopped to inhale quickly, "What about our duty to
her? As her friend? As her family? What about that? We should be
there for her right now! The fleet will be in trouble plenty more
times, I'm sure, but this…" Starbuck looked away, "This could
be it for her!"
Apollo watched his friend with tragedy in his eyes, "You don't think I know that? But I also know that hundreds of lives could depend on us getting out there. Starbuck, the human race is in danger."
With a glare, Starbuck lowered his voice, "I get it. She's just another person to protect, is that it? Just another pilot, expendable in the business of war."
"You know that's not true!" Apollo argued.
Starbuck did. He also knew he was pushing it, but that it was too late to stop the torrent of aggravation that had built up in him, "It's different for you! You've got a big family and they're all relatively safe at the moment! But she's all I've got, and pretty soon I may not even have her anymore! Maybe you'd feel differently if it was Athena on that stretcher!"
"That's enough, Lieutenant!" Apollo barked, switching into captain mode.
Shaking with fury and pent-up frustration at the situation and his own helplessness, Starbuck finally shut his mouth. But Apollo could almost see the steam coming out his ears.
"You think it's easy for me to see her like that?" Apollo asked, "Starbuck, I love her as much as you do, but I know she would want us to go out and fight, not hang around the Life Center and worry. Now are you coming, or do I have to order you?"
"You don't have to order me," Starbuck growled through clenched teeth, "Because I quit." He threw down his helmet, "And if you really cared about Celeste or what she suffered for, you'd come with me." With that, Starbuck stalked quickly to the turbolift, leaving Apollo standing alone in the landing bay.
Kobal. Why does being dead make you so sore? Who's pounding on my head? Soft. Something soft. A pillow. A pillow? Why is someone attacking me with a pillow? Wait, I think the pillow is holding still, and it's my head that's throbbing. Frack. Guess my body's throbbing, too. That or I've stumbled into a nest of anti-social bedding.
Outlet. I need an outlet. I need to express the way I feel. Why, I don't know. Just seems like a good idea. I think I'll try to groan.
"Celeste?" Starbuck grabbed her limp hand after hearing a very quiet sound come from her. A moan? No. A groan. He watched anxiously for any other signs of life.
"Mmplo," Celeste mumbled, her lips barely moving.
"What?" Starbuck leaned closer.
"Strrbk err's Amplo?"
"Oh," Starbuck looked down at the blanket, "He, uh, had something he needed to do."
Her eyelids fluttered a little, "On't go." Then she was gone again into unconsciousness.
Starbuck gently placed her hand back on the bed, "I'm not going anywhere," he said softly.
Cassiopeia walked in, "How's the patient?"
"She woke up again, this time for only a couple of microns," Starbuck replied.
Cassie shook her head, "Dr. Salik did the best he could to eradicate the brain damage. He wasn't able to get it all, but what was left wasn't much more than she had when we met her." The med-tech signed, "I don't understand it. Her body is healing, quite rapidly, actually. She should be getting better. But psychologically, she seems to be getting worse and worse. I'm afraid she might be slipping into a coma."
Starbuck winced, "Isn't there some way to prevent that?"
"No," Cassie replied regretfully, "I'm sorry, Starbuck."
"So am I," said Apollo.
Both Starbuck and Cassiopeia turned in surprise.
"Apollo?" Starbuck asked, "I thought you'd be out protecting the fleet by now."
"I decided the fleet could wait," Apollo looked meaningfully at Celeste.
Starbuck looked sheepish, "About what I said…"
"You were right," Apollo cut in.
"I was upset," Starbuck corrected, "But I'm glad you agree with me now."
Apollo gazed down at the woman he loved, "So am I." He looked toward the ceiling, "Not that it didn't take a little persuasion."
"Apollo." Celeste said.
Instantly he was at her side, "Easy. I'm right here."
"I'm…sorry," she said in broken gasps.
"Shh, it's okay," Apollo told her, "It's over now."
Her eyes opened halfway, looking right into the depths of his soul, "How…can…you…forgive me?"
Leaning closer to her, Apollo told her the truth, "Because I know it wasn't your fault."
Celeste smiled a little, "Hope…the fleet…agrees. Know…what I…know?" She smiled more, " I love you."
"Oh, Celeste," Apollo blinked back tears, "I love you too,"
Something remarkable had happened. Celeste's blue eyes opened all the way. She took a deep breath, her color returning. In fact, she looked almost herself again. Catching Apollo off-guard, she turned her head so their faces were close together. And she kissed him.
And he kissed her back.
Strength flowed back into Celeste's tortured body as she wrapped her arms around Apollo in a heartfelt embrace. The deep-rooted mutual feeling that had been kindled and hidden from the moment they'd met sprung up like an aura around them. The magic in that kiss was unparalleled by any other kiss in human history. It radiated outward in all directions, through matter and space, and for an instant, it seemed to stop time altogether.
Deep in an underground chamber, an ancient evil force was meeting its demise. Already in the throes of death when the aura reached it, the dark entity sank to the floor, overcome by the new wave of positive energy. With a gurgle, it melted and dematerialized. Then it was gone forever.
In space around the battlestar Galactica, Cylon raiders all simultaneously retreated. The imperious leader had finally regained control of them from Iblis, and decided to conserve the forces for a later time. With a cheer, the Colonial Warriors headed home.
On the bridge of the Galactica, there was much celebration. Colonel Tigh and Commander Adama clasped hands in the traditional Colonial handshake, while Rigel talked Zac in and let him know where to meet her for dinner. Athena startled Omega by impulsively hugging him, though he didn't appear to mind. In fact, he in turn surprised Athena by impulsively kissing her, which she didn't appear to mind at all.
In the brig, Baltar sighed, once again a captive. But this time, he was a captive with a cause. He began shouting out, for all who cared to listen, the story of how he had rescued the legendary Lt. Celeste. Fortunately, no one cared to listen.
In the Life Center, Celeste and Apollo had stopped kissing and were now sitting on the bed, holding each other and whispering in each other's ears. Starbuck and Cassie smiled and left the wardroom to let Apollo and Celeste celebrate in private. They did, however, leave together, and head in the direction of Cassie's quarters.
"Really, Apollo, I'm fine with it." Celeste said firmly, trying to convince her best friend, "I'd have to confront them sooner or later."
"It's out of the question." Apollo replied, equally as resolutely.
Celeste sighed. "This time I can walk," she pointed out.
Apollo gave her a serious look over the table, "That has nothing to do with it."
"Nothing?" Celeste raised an eyebrow and took a swallow of her drink.
With half an eye-roll, Apollo shook his head, "You know what I'm talking about. Those people will probably never understand what happened. I'm not even sure I understand."
"Well, that makes two of us," the young woman swirled her drink, watching the bubbles run up the sides. Not meeting his eyes, Celeste spoke softly to Apollo, "I really hope no one ever comes as close as I did to understanding whatever it was." She suddenly looked up, her blue eyes troubled. She seemed to stare right past Apollo. Her short hair shone like molten gold in the starlight from the observation lounge window.
"Celeste?"
"Hmm?" She snapped out of her daze and gave Apollo a carefully innocent, naïve smile. At his questioning look, she smiled warmly, "Ah, I'm fine. Just thinking is all."
"Are you sure you want to do this?" Apollo asked her.
"What, the public appearance?" Celeste shrugged, "Why not?"
Apollo held up his hands, "Just asking. I don't want you to feel pressured into anything. Especially not by the Council."
"Pfft," Celeste waved a hand, "The Council couldn't pressure me into anything if they shoved me out an airlock."
"I don't doubt it," Apollo said dryly, but there was something akin to pride in his eyes. No one can make you go against your principles, Celeste. If these ordeals proved anything, that would be it.
"Anyway, enough shop talk" Celeste lifted her glass, "Here's to enjoying the rest of the evening!"
"And the end of the water shortage," Apollo added, clinking his glass against hers.
"Ah, ah, ah." Celeste shook her head, "Anything remotely fleet-saving qualifies as shop talk."
"Well, what do you want to talk about?" Apollo asked laughingly.
Celeste blinked. She cocked her head, "Umm…the weather?" She smiled sheepishly at him, "Felgercarb. All I am is shop!"
"I disagree," Apollo stood up and took her hand. She stood up, too, a bit uncomfortably. Apollo looked steadily into her eyes, "I know very well that there is more to you than meets the eye, Lieutenant."
"Yeah," Celeste nodded evasively, "So, about the weather…"
"Celeste." Apollo chided gently.
"…it's very clear tonight." Celeste finished lamely, half-heartedly gesturing out the window, "Clear skies, with only a slight chance of Cylons."
"Crystal clear." Apollo wandered in her eyes.
"And…" Celeste lost her train of thought, "…and it's very good flying weather…" Her eyes found their way to Apollo.
"It's very good," Apollo echoed.
"Really, really good." Celeste murmured, intensely staring at him, "Best I've ever had."
"Really?" Apollo's hands found hers.
Celeste closed her eyes and smiled, "It makes me want to live, and I couldn't live without it."
"Hey," Apollo pulled her a little closer, "Me too."
Opening her eyes again, Celeste smiled knowingly, "I know, you told me, remember?" She looked down, "Apollo, I just don't think I'm ready to…commit to anything yet. Someday..and there will be a someday…but not just yet."
"I know," Apollo nodded, "And I'll wait. However long it takes, I'll wait. Friends?"
Celeste grinned, "Uh, I think we passed the 'just friends' stage a long time ago!"
"I think you're right," Apollo agreed, "So what are we?"
Celeste thought a moment, "We're a couple…of Viper pilots."
"Fair enough," Apollo laughed.
She stood again at the podium on the Hermes. This time, however, she wasn't fidgeting. She wasn't stuttering. She knew what she was there for, and what she was going to do. She was prepared.
"Hello again," Celeste spoke casually, though her heart was pounding rebelliously against her rib cage, "Once again, you asked me to talk at you."
Her eyes swept the audience. All of her closest friends were there. Apollo, Starbuck, Boxey, Athena, Cassiopeia, Boomer, Zac, and Qasha were there, as well as Colonel Tigh, Jolly, Greenbean, Reese, and Darit. Commander Adama would have been there if he could have gotten away from work. She knew he'd be watching on a monitor.
"So here I am," Celeste continued, "And I've got plenty of stories to tell. Which makes me absolutely no different from any of you."
The audience was completely silent.
Grinning inwardly, Celeste shrugged, "So, I'm just asking, why me?" She strode across the stage, "Is it because you think I'm a hero? Or perhaps you think I'm a villain? Maybe you just think I'm more exciting than most people."
The eyes of the audience were on her.
"You want to know the truth?" Celeste frowned, "The real truth is, I'm not a hero. I'm not a goddess to be worshipped. I'm not more intelligent, or brave, or lucky, than anyone else. So I fight Cylons, but I do it with the most advanced technology known to man. So I take risks most people wouldn't…well under normal circumstances I wouldn't either. I may seem courageous, but I'm really just afraid to be any other way. I get angry, I get scared, I get sad, I get excited, sometimes, I get hurt. Just like anyone else.
"Has anyone here lost anything? A home? A family? Have any of you started rebuilding your lives and futures? Survived against the odds? Don't answer that, I know you have. You all have. You're all heroes. Anyone who has ever helped distribute food stores, or care for the sick, or patch up an old ship, or did anything to contribute to the human race's struggle for survival. You people that no one ever talks about. The janitors, the agro workers, the flight crews, the mechanics, the textile workers, you're all heroes."
Celeste turned unexpectedly to a camera pointed at her. She glared into the lens, "So stop pointing spotlights at me and have a look at some of the heroes sitting next to you!" She grabbed the camera and yanked it around to face the stunned audience.
"Give 'em all a hand, folks!" Celeste yelled.
The audience erupted in applause.
One person that Celeste hadn't seen was beaming at her from a crowded doorway. He joined into the applause, "That's my girl!" he cried, not knowing how loud he'd said it.
Another man standing next to him turned, squinting, "Lt. Celeste is 'your girl'?"
Chameleon blinked. Oops. "Yes, she is my daughter."
The man's look softened, "You must be very proud of her."
"I…" Chameleon smiled in surprise, "I am!" And he realized that it was absolutely true.
For a micron, he thought she caught his eye. He tried to send her as much of an I'm-proud-of-you look as he could in a glance.
For an even shorter micron, it seemed as though she'd smiled at him.
As Chameleon watched, Celeste ran down into the audience and started grabbing people and dragging them onstage. She organized them into a line and led them in a theatrical bow. Her uniform buckles shone and reflected the spotlights, but their brightness couldn't outshine her smile and energy.
Yes, Chameleon thought, it is absolutely true.
