Author's Note: This Chapter will have OC (Original Character: aka Rebecca Cain) x Kendra Shaw, I suspected after watching Razor Kendra Shaw may have likely been gay, the character, not the actor. I decided adding this would be interesting as we know Kendra sacrifices herself eventually, and a broken heart added with the experience on the Scylla (Lairds ship) makes it that more powerful. And just to warn those who may be offended by same sex relations and or are under age, there is sexual content in this chapter, you have been fairly warned.
Also, the names of certain things will obviously be different from our own; this includes things from sports cars to clothing, just as an example. The car Rebecca owns is a Ferrari 360 spider, 2004, and so has been changed to fit within the battlestar universe, and just to be safe, I don't own any name brands for anything what so ever.
Due to a realization from friendly constructive criticism I'll be reformatting the chapters to make them easier to read. I didn't realize the text was difficult to read, I actually thought it flowed smoothly, but I write to improve and appreciate any help given. But on to the story, hopefully it's much easier to read.
Chapter 13: All is fair, love and War
Beta Aquila was an adequate position to safely repair the Ulysses again. This time the wounds from battle turned into hideous scars, and the Ulysses was starting to look war torn, a burnt looking hull with dozens of impact craters. Rebecca lost over five hundred crew members in the attack, and some areas of the ship were so contaminated with radiation they had to be sealed off. The day the repairs were complete the officers gathered on Pegasus and decided on their course of action. A young officer from Rebecca's past joined them; Kendra Shaw, when she saw her she could barely keep a cool head, wanting to pull her aside and ask how and why she got posted on the Pegasus but refrained with difficulty.
"They seem interested in systems with natural resources, and the rest are ignored. So, we will start to scout these systems on our own. I am sure we will find the Cylon's in one of them." The senior staff agreed. "What about Jagar?" Val asked, and all eyes turned to him.
"He isn't a threat to us now." The Admiral replied.
Val balled his fists, "Sir, he's a threat to anyone left out there, we should organize a search and destroy operation." The Admiral became annoyed, "that is not our concern, we're here to fight the Cylon's, and that is what we will do."
Rebecca coughed, and Val glowered in anger. "Admiral, I have to agree with my CAG, that ship is a threat to us, Jagar could be planning an attack with the Cylon's as we speak."
Captain Shaw spoke up, her accent thickly native Caprican, which always sounded intriguing to Rebecca. "I would imagine he has his own problems now sir, if he was working with the Cylon's, leading ships to that location, then that means they would only tolerate it until he made a mistake. Now if I were an efficient machine, not accepting anything but perfection, and learned that my human tools have failed miserably would cause me to change my priorities. Simply put sir, Jagar is likely being hunted by the Cylon's now."
Admiral Cain seemed pleased with her aide's summary of her own thoughts on that matter. Rebecca crossed her arms, not liking to be second guessed by anyone, not even Kendra, but couldn't help give her ground. Rebecca has never felt an attraction to another female save one, and she found herself feeling butterflies in her stomach again, but quickly snapped out of it, ridiculous, she thought, old feelings from a relationship that didn't end well.
Val looked less then convinced, and Rebecca patted his back, a friendly gesture to calm him down, he sighed, letting it go for now. The Admiral waved around the map with her pocket knife, something of an iconic symbol for her, never being seen without it. "Now, let's organize the recon patrols, three Raptor teams for each system in this sector. Order them to look and listen, and do not engage the enemy if detected, this will be essential, we need to keep them oblivious of our intentions. Now, the Pegasus will handle all the systems in the Aquila traverse, I will be sending the Ulysses to the nebula here in the sector, there are at least three or four large planetary systems there."
Rebecca nodded, listening; Ken mentally wrote everything she said down. "Why not just skip over the back waters and head for the center, spread out from there in every direction?" Fisk asked.
The answer was obvious to Rebecca, "Because Colonel, spreading out from the middle would cost us in fuel, starting from the back and flanks working our way forward will cover more distance and give us a cleaner oversight of Cylon activities for when we pick up the fleets trail again, and they cannot have much of a head start now."
Fisk grunted, and the Admiral smiled slightly to Rebecca. "Good, I'll send over the mission dossiers with all the details tonight, and we will start the operation at zero nine hundred; dismissed and good night." The officers broke away from the operations table, the Admiral gathered her files and walked out of the room talking with her XO, Rebecca nodded to Ken and Val.
"I'll be along shortly, I'll meet you in the hanger deck." Val and Ken saluted. "Aye sir," And left the operations room.
Captain Kendra Shaw was gathering up the surveillance photos and other mission related papers, carefully setting them into a laminated dossier. Rebecca didn't really know what she was doing, and decided to do it anyway. "It's good to see you, Captain." Kendra looked up at Rebecca a moment, before resuming her work, nearly having all the files stowed away.
She cracked a sardonic smile, "Whatever you are trying to do, just don't sir." Rebecca smirked, she hasn't changed that much.
"I'm sorry, thing's from the past just seem to be popping up a lot these days." Kendra sighed, resting her hands on the table, and looked directly at her.
"I haven't forgotten you, how could I. You hurt me, a long time ago, and that is the end of that, sir."
Rebecca closed her eyes, "Captain, I..." Kendra interrupted her, clearly not interested in talking about it,
"Sir I have several things to do before first watch, if you will excuse me." She stood at attention and saluted, and Rebecca could see that softness in her eyes no one else could see, and something deep was perplexing her, after two years Rebecca could still read her like a book. She returned the salute hesitantly, and watched her leave operations. Strange when one realizes this is it, how it forces old wounds to reopen unintentionally. Memories are the only thing anyone alive now has left, and Rebecca was getting her share of the past.
Two years, three months Ago:CapricaCaprica City
The air carried the scent of salt and fresh sweat, the movement of the two combatants energized the senses, quickening the pulse and ushering the sensation of adrenaline pumping to every facet. The pair was mesmerizing, drawing on lookers, as they danced that deadly dance of combat, visceral and gritty, and absolutely satisfying to behold. 'It's all in the eyes' She thought, 'Watch and react accordingly' the next blow landed squarely in her cheek, snapping her head back.
'Damn! Let my guard down too soon! Stay on your feet soldier!' Any more thoughts were swept away with instinct, and the martial display was taking its toll on them both. "Twenty seconds!" The announcer declared, but the only thing they hear is the sweeping of feet as they kick outwards and the throw of arms and fists wanting to feel the pleasure of victory.
With the snap of a leg she shot forward, landing the blow to the side of her enemies head splitting her eyebrow, knocking her to the floor, she struggled to stand, but the force of the blow blurred her vision, and she stayed down as the clock hit zero.
'Victory' she thought through heavy breaths, she finally relaxed her guard, and grinned. The cheering of the crowd lifted her spirit. "And time! Well folks it's been a truly exciting day here down on Caprica Beach for the Colonial Martial Arts association, thirty combatants entered the square today and only one is walking away with the prize, the Judges are making their decision now."
She walked over, offering her hand to her fallen foe, she took it, and stood up again, her defined abdominal muscles flexed proudly, and she didn't mind feeling a tinge of pleasure checking over her, a look of defeat enveloped her but she masked it with a smile. "Hell of a fight Shaw, next time I'll be ready for you."
Kendra smirked, "Good fight Kirsten." The two walked back to their respective benches as the crowd cheered, Kendra received pats on the back from her trainer and others, and then she reached for her water bottle, taking a drink and scanning the crowd for the one person she wanted to see standing there. And too her satisfaction, there she was, crisply standing in a blue Colonial fleet uniform with a proud smile on her face. Kendra beamed a smile back with a small wave, and caught her breath, waiting on the Judges.
The tournament took place right on the main beach of Caprica City, which was located further down the coast line where the water was not as rough unlike the downtown core which was shielded with massive sandbars and rock. Three different schools from different Colonies attended, and Kendra felt honoured to be a part of it. The judge's panel passed on their verdict to the announcer, and the noise died down considerably.
"The judges have made their decision, congratulations to the White Wolf Martial Arts Academy, Kendra Shaw please step forward and claim your prize." The crowd cheered, and Kendra laughed and waved, the announcer had in hand a modest trophy depicting two fighters facing each other in a defensive pose, and in the other a fifth degree black belt. She took them in hand and the announcer moved the microphone close to her mouth. She took another breath before reciting her victory speech.
"I dedicate this victory to the White Wolf Martial Arts Academy and my instructor Jordan White, hard work and many hours spent teaching me discipline and compassion. And to a certain someone special to me, without your faith in me I would not have gotten this far, I love you, and thank you from the bottom of my heart. And to all those who fought today, you have my sincerest respect, thank you."
The crowd applauded her valour, and the stands slowly began to empty, Kendra walked back to her bench, setting down the impressive trophy, and made to change the belt around her white uniform, the patch on her left breast was a snarling white wolf. Before she could un-tie the old belt she felt a hand on her shoulder. She turned and there stood her companion of the past year, Colonel Rebecca Cain.
Their relationship was known to some officials, and it was decided it wouldn't compromise the chain of command despite the large gap in rank, as Rebecca was stationed on battlestar's and Kendra worked in the Ministry of Defence, internal affairs overlooked it, for now. Kendra wrapped her arms around her groaning softly, taking in her scent, then released her just as quickly, cautious of observers.
"I'm so glad you made it, I figured Commander Hall would give you that shore leave," Rebecca smiled, revealing her white teeth.
"Well we'll be here a little longer than anticipated, you know the problems with Tauron and the other Colonies have been the talk of the forum, and they have agreed to a meeting, they're sending a representative to consider the President's proposals. He is confident, and expects the issues will be resolved within a few days."
Kendra raised a brow, "How does that make you feel babe?" She asked tilting her head, but tried to untie her belt again, Rebecca chuckled, and then did it for her.
Kendra blushed slightly, "Oh thank you, sir." Rebecca scrunched her face at the teasing comment.
"Well, my loyalty is to the fleet, not a radical military group wanting more control. I do love my home, but they are wrong, and I hope this can be resolved peacefully without bloodshed, but knowing my people, they would rather fight then sit down and talk, the President must have made some intriguing offers for this meeting to take place. Anyway, congratulations, you kicked their asses," Kendra laughed squeezing Rebecca's arm.
"Yeah well, not without your support darlin', come on let's go, I'm starving and in need of a shower." Rebecca carried the trophy, which was the size of her forearm.
"Going to display this back at the dojo?" Rebecca asked, and Kendra nodded.
"Yeah, this one belongs to them, Jordan and the other students, to all of us." Kendra said.
"He would be proud, I'm sure he was watching you." Rebecca said softly.
Kendra looked up with a small smile "Yeah, I think so, he never missed a tournament."
They touched solid pavement again in the parking lot, Rebecca reached into her left pocket taking out the keys to the car knowing Kendra walked here, and gently set the trophy in the hood trunk along with her duffle bag. Kendra hopped into the passenger side, closing the door. Rebecca put the keys in the ignition, starting up the expensive sports car, a jet black Dynasty with tinted windows; she revved the powerful engines, and never grew tired of hearing it, and backed out of the stall burning rubber back onto the main road.
Rebecca kept the car on Caprica and let Kendra use it whenever she wanted; they were both insured to drive it. "What are you hungry for huh?" Kendra shrugged, thinking.
"You pick," Rebecca looked over her shoulder as they made a turn around the corner, "Alright, pizza it is."
Kendra grinned, "Now that is something I haven't had in a while, sounds good." Rebecca pulled the car in front of a pizza parlour, then switched off the ignition, she was about to open the door when Kendra attacked her with kisses, her lips tasting slightly salty from her dry sweat, but she didn't mind at all and leaned into it knowing no one could see inside.
"You sure your hungry for food?" Rebecca asked huskily, Kendra let out a mischievous laugh.
"Change of priorities," and slipped her tongue inside Rebecca's mouth whom responded by squeezing Kendra's bottom.
"Missed these lips," Kendra murmured, and Rebecca trembled in her arms.
"I missed you as well, six months feels like an eternity," Kendra manoeuvred so she was nearly straddling her.
"And I'd wait another six months for you." Rebecca trusted Kendra completely, and loved coming back to her knowing she would lavish her pent up feelings on her first chance she had. Rebecca broke the passionate kiss.
"I know you're dying, but we should wai-" Before she could make her point she felt Kendra's hand unbuckle her belt and travel down to her womanhood, making Rebecca lose her train of thought. "Oh God's," she gasped, starting up the car and moved them to an empty underground parking lot and let her woman show how much she loved her.
After two hours spent in the now steamy windowed car Rebecca needed a shower herself, and Kendra couldn't stop smiling, which Rebecca found quite endearing, making her feelings for Kendra stronger. "Are you happy now?" Rebecca asked teasingly.
Kendra chuckled, nodding, "That was just the warm up round," Rebecca laughed shaking her head, buttoning her uniform back up, trying to get dressed in a car is difficult.
"Alright miss eager, we have plenty of time to explore each other again for the next few days, but let's try to keep it in the bedroom next time." Kendra purred, and took her hand in hers.
"Whatever you say," Rebecca let out a soft 'humph', and pressed her lips to Kendra's again before starting the car back up, and rolled down a window.
"I'll make you dinner, you must be famished now."
Kendra nodded, "and tired, I think I'll take a nap when we get home after we eat." Rebecca backed up the car, and drove up the winding garage until pulling back onto the main road, Caprica ninety, and headed to their apartment.
By the time they got home, it was quarter to six. Rebecca shared a shower with Kendra, getting clean from head to toe, and took her time revisiting some of the pleasures Kendra administered to her. After she made dinner, rice and fish steaks from the coast, and called Kendra, who was fast asleep in the bedroom, completely exhausted.
Rebecca sat on the edge of the bed, she took one of her feet in her hands, and tickled it softly, a throaty hum escaped Kendra, and she narrowly opened her eyes, "Hey, dinner ready?" Rebecca nodded.
"You bet, coming to the table?" Kendra inhaled and yawned tiredly between the white linen sheets.
"Mm hmm, be there in a minute babe." She stretched out over the bed, trying to will herself up. Rebecca waited until Kendra dragged herself to the table, "It look's amazing, thank you," And kissed Rebecca across the small dining oak table. Kendra wolfed down the food, fighting and making love all in one day tires a person out, after light conversation Kendra wandered back to bed, and Rebecca cleaned the kitchen, taking in how little Kendra redid the apartment since her last time here six months ago. Rebecca's paintings and sculptures still stood on display proudly, giving the apartment a sort of pizzazz, and every piece told a different story. Of course Rebecca didn't paint them herself; she never had time to indulge that secret passion, but enjoyed other artist's work.
Sighing, she sat down on the leather sofa in front of the flat panel television, and turned on the news, they were recapping the day's events, nothing really interesting; the meetings with the Tauron representative would begin tomorrow morning. She reached over to the end table and picked up her wireless cell phone, or simply called a wireless. She punched in a few numbers and waited until Ken's voice filled her ear, "Kenneth Reid here, go ahead," Rebecca cleared her throat.
"Hey Ken, it's me," Ken changed his tone.
"Well how was it?" Rebecca furrowed her brows.
"How was what?" Ken chuckled, "Seeing Kendra Shaw again?" Oh right, Rebecca thought, "Instant stress reliever, she makes me happy Ken, she beat the crap out of everyone who stepped up on the fighting mat today."
He laughed, "I bet, anyways, I'm bunking in the Ocean View Hotel for the week until Commander Hall recalls us after the political stunt, politicians make me cringe."
Rebecca nodded, "I hear that, but yeah we'll get together tomorrow for lunch."
Ken sounded regretful. "Frak, sorry Rebecca, I'm meeting Colonel Belzen tomorrow for lunch, he offered to pay, but if you happen to walk through the River Walk Market I'm sure you can join us, we'll be sitting at one of the coffee shops."
Rebecca nodded, "alright, sounds like a plan, Kendra has to work tomorrow morning anyways."
Ken cleared his throat, "You know if things all go to hell tomorrow, we may be plunged into a conflict with Tauron, and..."
Rebecca rubbed her eyes, "We know where our loyalties lie, if Tauron wants' to go it alone that's their business, and I know what you are thinking, but Admiral Cain won't side with them if they break away from the Colonies. Neither will I Ken."
He replied, "Yeah I figured as much, but still, it would be a hard thing to deal with."
Rebecca leaned back into the sofa, "yes it would, but I have a feeling thing's will turn out fine, they just need to have their voices heard is all,"
"Well I wish I had your confidence Rebecca, we'll just wait and see I guess, anyways, I'm going out for a bite, I'll talk to you later yeah?"
Rebecca nodded, "Sure, see you tomorrow," and she clicked the small receive button off ending the call, and tossed the phone back onto the table. But the phone rang again; and she answered it, "Colonel Cain speaking," there was some interference on the other line, it must be an off-world call, and Rebecca guessed right.
"Ship call from Admiral Cain, standby," then heard her Aunt's voice on the other line, "How are you Rebecca?"
She leaned forward on the sofa, "auntie, this is a surprise; I'm fine, just enjoying my shore leave."
She heard her sigh on the other end, "With what's her name right? You know the one I mean, take this from me when I say you cannot let this get in the way of your future, people are watching, and expect certain things from you."
Rebecca gritted her teeth, "I know don't worry, Kendra won't hold me back."
She heard a scoff, "I've heard different, things are moving very fast, so be ready when it happens, it's a surprise. The talks will be over quickly, and Tauron will be all the better for it, with a little help from me of course."
Rebecca narrowed her eyes, "What do you mean?"
"I mean I'll be making sure our Colony get's everything it deserves, and when the talks are over report to Delphi airbase, that's all." And the line went dead. 'What the frak is going on?' Rebecca thought, and then sauntered back to the bedroom to lay down next to Kendra who slid an arm across her waist, and Rebecca realized she may not want a career in the military, and that caused a chill to crawl up her spine, but it quickly vanished with Kendra's body pressed against hers, and she fell into a deep sleep.
Rebecca woke up to the smell of cooking and fresh coffee, the scent wafted into her nostrils, and her stomach growled. 'Kendra is up' she thought, and looked over at the digital clock, which read zero seven hundred, she could hear the television reporter: "We are reporting here live on the scene from the political forum, the agenda has been shaping up to this point for the past three months. Four quorum delegates will be meeting with the President and high ranking fleet officials today to address Tauron's wish to break away from the Colonial government system. Tauron has been shedding itself from the Colonial articles and pressing for its own independent military and political system, much to the dismay of the other Colonies, who have begged for the Presidents attention. Security is quite heavy, police and government agents have the area secure and are "optimistic" that there won't be any problems. The first meeting is scheduled for nine o'clock. We'll bring you more live coverage when the delegates gather and the Presidents administration prepare for the quorum members arrival."
Rebecca stopped listening after that, and sat up on the edge of the bed, wearing nothing but white men's briefs and a tight fitting white top, and she walked into the kitchen where Kendra was dressed and ready for work in her Ministry of Defence uniform. "Mm, something smells amazing." Rebecca said, and then draped her slender arms wrap around Kendra's neck, then moved her hands down her sides, grazing her breasts, Kendra grinned, then Rebecca pressed her smooth soft lips into the side of her neck.
Kendra smiled closing her eyes, and then opened them, "Well after last night, I wanted to make you something." Rebecca tilted her head, leaning around to kiss her girlfriend. They tried their best to keep the relationship as private as possible, being who they are however made that exceptionally difficult. So far they managed without too much comment, but the rumours were plenty.
"I can't wait." Kendra motioned for Rebecca to sit. Rebecca bit her bottom lip, and then looked out the large glass windows' overlooking the ocean, the apartment was thirty stories up on ocean view way. When Rebecca was not out in space serving her tours, she was here with Kendra, who worked in the ministry, only ten blocks away. Rebecca grinned, then lifted Kendra up off the ground instead, holding her in her arms, Kendra laughed.
"First, let's eat, you naughty girl." Rebecca blushed slightly, and then kissed her before setting her down.
"So you think Tauron may accept the Presidents offer?" Kendra asked as she walked around the impressive kitchen, oak cabinets with marble tiles with a center island where the stoves and burners were located, and the oak dining table with matching chairs. When it came to politics they were of the same mind, and tried to stay out of it as much as possible, but inevitably having to deal with it they had to be involved in some way.
"Yes, but it has to be done gracefully. Admiral Cain will play a vital part in the negotiations, but I am sure it will be resolved peacefully." Kendra dished out the results of her cooking, eggs Benedict, fresh fruit and coffee, Rebecca's mouth watered. Kendra set down Rebecca's plate in front of her.
"Eggs may still be a little runny, but that's how you like it." Rebecca grinned, and then waited until Kendra was ready to eat, and they ate together.
"I know you haven't really spent much time on Tauron, I still think you haven't been there. I think I'm going to cash in some shore leave I've been saving up, and I want you to come with me." Kendra raised a brow, and then chewed her food, swallowing before answering.
"I really would like to go and see your home Rebecca, but you know the press will not leave us alone if we try to do anything like that now, a month ago we could have gotten away with it. Were the celebrities of the month, well at least Doctor Baltar steals the limelight away from us. And, I have to work Rebecca." She stabbed the fork into a piece of fruit, raising it to her mouth, and chewed it a couple of times. Rebecca looked down, the press were not a problem, they were focused on this historic political problem, and would not notice two known officers slip away together.
"I know it may look suspicious, but it's none of their frakkin' business." Kendra smiled pointing her fork slightly at her.
"Now you sound like me when we first got together. Look, if we do go, they will notice." She cleared her throat and mimicked a reporter, "Colonel Rebecca Cain daughter of Seraph Cain and ministry officer Kendra Shaw, daughter of Marta Shaw, have been known to have an explicit relationship and are going to Tauron during this political crisis between Caprica and Tauron, why would they do that?" She dropped the make believe microphone with a small smirk. "We will be scrutinized heavily, and it will just be another headache we have to deal with."
She was right, sometimes she despised being a member of the Cain family, which Kendra knew, and hated also having to sacrifice their personal lives for appearances. She wanted some kind of life away from the military and political fields. "Well darling," She reached over and brushed a loose lock of hair behind Kendra's ear, "we should go after everyone is happy." Kendra kissed the palm of Rebecca's hand, musing.
"I suppose so, alright. I can figure out a plan to get some time off at work." The two finished their breakfast, and then Rebecca retreated back into their room.
Rebecca stared at herself in the mirror in their large bathroom, she wondered why Kendra really loved her, was it her looks, her standing, or her, the person behind the military mask. She decided it was her, but the other things no doubt contributed to it, it was only natural. Kendra came up behind Rebecca, and stood close to her side with an arm wrapped around her waist. "What's wrong babe?"
Rebecca shook her head, "I don't know, just, nervous about something I guess."
She fingered her hair then, and Kendra pressed, "Bout what?" Rebecca turned her head to look at her,
"My Aunt, she said she had a big surprise for me after the affair between the Colonies is over. It's making me worry; I don't want something I didn't earn on my own." She breathed.
Kendra rested her chin on her right shoulder, sighing, and adding, "A battlestar right?" Rebecca couldn't answer, if that happened...
Rebecca answered quickly, "I don't think so."
Kendra looked down, "There is something I have to tell you." Before she could answer, Rebecca's wireless rang, she muttered, walked back out into the living room, and then lifted the small phone to her ear.
"Rebecca Cain speaking," Kendra followed her out, arms crossed, Rebecca listened intently. "You have to be... then its official then... yes, I understand, of course, goodbye sir." She clicked the receiver and wretched her hands, a tide of sickness hitting her, she had been promoted, and breakfast made itself back out as she ran back into the bathroom diving head first for the toilet with Kendra right on her heels.
After the contents of her stomach were empty, and she stopped shaking, she rinsed out her mouth and faced a very worried looking Lieutenant. "Commander Hall has been honourably discharged as Commanding officer of the Ulysses due to cancer, and I'm to report to Delphi airbase in two days to receive my Commander stars by the President of the Colonies." It took a minute for the news to sink into Kendra, and she sat down next to Rebecca.
"So you knew Commander Hall was ill Becca?"
She nodded, "Yes, but I didn't know it was that bad, he has been sick for the past eight weeks aboard ship, but that may be why we came to Caprica, he must have known I was going to take his place."
Kendra's voice cracked, and her eyes glistened with oncoming tears, "And, what will you do?" At that moment, Rebecca decided.
She took Kendra's hands into her own, "I love you enough to give up everything I've done over the years in the Military,"
Kendra shut her eyes, a tear fell freely splashing onto the bathroom tile. "I don't want to stand in the way, this is bigger than me. I... can't be the cause of you resigning from the military."
Rebecca shook her head, "It would be the easy choice wouldn't it? I know you Kendra, and you want me to stay deep down."
Kendra let out a bitter laugh, "You do know me, but, remember I promised you I wouldn't get in the way when we first got together, how our work will always take precedence over anything else. But... no it's stupid, and risky, and goes against what we agreed."
Rebecca sighed, "Out with it," Kendra's lips twitched into a faint smile.
"I was going to ask you and it was only a matter of time before this happened, is that I should ask for a transfer to Ulysses." Kendra tilted her head to look into Rebecca's eyes with all seriousness, "As Commander, you can accept anyone into your crew as you see fit, and I could be with you." That was a risky gamble indeed, if internal affairs caught onto that Rebecca would have to resign or even face charges for knowingly accepting a person whom she was involved with to continue the relationship aboard ship, which would not fly.
"I don't know how it could ever work, IA would be crawling up our asses looking for any evidence to nail us for fraternization, and they would probably ask other crewmen to keep an eye on us."
Kendra shrugged, "They don't have proof now, we live together, so what, were roommates, and we never kiss openly in public, they can only suspect, nothing else." 'My Kendra, so passionate' Rebecca thought.
"True, but people will know without, really knowing you know?" And they both burst out laughing at the choice of words. Rebecca nodded, "It could work, if we are, and I stress this greatly, extremely careful. But what about the ministry, I thought you love it there?"
Kendra shrugged, "In all honesty I had no plans of staying there, but build up my file to move onto something better, and this may as well be it." Rebecca stood, still in her underwear, and Kendra enjoyed the view from the cute grin she had.
Kendra laughed, "Well, I'm late for work now, that's a first. I'll request the transfer today, see you later "Commander"." She emphasized the word with a funny expression, "Get your cute butt dressed, you'll catch a cold, I'll see you after work," And kissed Rebecca's cheek before heading for the door. The range of emotions human's go through sometimes amazed Rebecca, now feeling euphoric with excitement, she gets everything in one big shiny package called UlyssesCould it really be this easy?
The elevator finally hit ground level, and Rebecca was glad to feel the fresh warm air kiss her skin accompanied with the afternoon sun chasing away the nausea and second thoughts. How she could tell Ken about the new development she didn't know, but telling him would definitely cause protest. "Much better now," Rebecca said aloud, she wore her civvies, jeans with a collared shirt with another t-shirt beneath, unbuttoned, and striped.
She walked to the waterfront sidewalk and made her way through the park which stretched around another two blocks. She arrived at the River walk Market and passed a few cafe's, Rebecca stopped when she heard her name being called, and there sitting in uniform with another officer was Major Kenneth Reid, "Rebecca!" She waved, coming closer.
Colonel Jurgen Belzen sat with his ankle across his knee sipping on fine blend coffee and greeted her. "Colonel, nice day for a stroll isn't it?" he smiled disarmingly, and Rebecca shook Jurgen's hand.
"Mr. Belzen, good to see you again." Rebecca said.
"Please, pull up a chair." She did so and pulled up closely around the small coffee table.
"So how are Elizabeth and Courtney, Colonel? It's been awhile last I saw them," Rebecca asked, crossing her legs.
Jurgen nodded, "Good good, keeping their mother busy between work and home. Courtney is all over the place with sports, and Elizabeth is reading quite a bit now, I see two opposites which make the whole stronger." He smiled, "Anyways, I need to get going, debriefings from the meetings will begin soon, Major, a pleasure as always," he nodded to Rebecca, "See you around." And he walked into the passing crowd.
Ken looked at her, shaking his head, "Hell even I still can't believe you and Kendra," he grinned, and Rebecca rolled her eyes.
"Well major, the heart works in wonderful and mysterious ways."
Ken laughed, "Yeah I guess so, at least you two keep it private" Ken then leaned forward elbows on the table, "We did it!" he exasperated with joy, "All that frakking hard work has paid off Rebecca, we've done it, just like we planned."
Rebecca pursed her lips nodding, then shrugged off her nervousness, "Yeah but, Kendra and I are... pretty serious, and she wants a transfer to Ulysses."
Ken blinked, "What?"
Rebecca nodded, "I know Ken, this wasn't a part of the plan I assure you, but I love her too much to let her go."
Ken stared at her not believing his ears, then stiffened his features, "Look, we earned this, together, hell we deserve it, we have busted our asses for years working towards this moment! And now you want to throw it away over ... a relationship that is doomed to failure! And bring it onto a warship!" Ken regretted his last words; he didn't mean it to sound so harsh and personal, and Rebecca did not look impressed.
Ken tried to smooth it over, "I'm sorry Rebecca, that is not my place, I shouldn't have went off like that I just... put my life on hold to reach this point, and now my closest comrade may ruin us both over her... personal life." Rebecca was torn; his words rang loudly and clearly.
She knew he was right, but she still couldn't refuse Kendra, "This is... a very difficult choice, but it will be fine."
Ken sighed in frustration, trying to find a way to dissuade her. "Listen to what you are saying; you think it will be fine sure, but when Colonial Internal Affairs comes knocking you'll be publicly humiliated not to mention charged with consensual fraternization and busted back to God's know what rank. We've been working every day for over half a decade, preparing for this, we've worked harder than anyone in Battlestar group eighty nine. And now you just want to forget it all, like it never happened, I can't frakking believe this Rebecca... I have to go, call me later when you come to your senses," And then he muttered, "God's damn-it."
He stormed off pissed to high heaven, leaving Rebecca sitting alone, and she looked to the ground, sometimes Ken had to set her straight, but still Rebecca couldn't accept it. She sat for there for another hour, and when she leaved the cafe' she had a splintering headache.
By the time she got back home it was dark out, she collapsed onto the sofa; Kendra wouldn't be home for another hour. Tired from the day's endeavours, Rebecca turned on the T.V., a female reporter with blonde hair and a bubbling personality talked quickly.
"Today's negotiations have come to a close, and Tauron has given ground, accepting many of the Presidents generous offers and new trade sanctions, which will give Tauron more freedom with their economic process and in so giving them a solid independent standing among the other Colonies, without risk of conflict. Marta Shaw was credited for outstanding negotiating skills along with Admiral Helena Cain, a native of Tauron, for her keen insight of the military. Tomorrow negotiations will continue, and should conclude soon at this fast paced and historic gathering, this is Sarah Aveena channel eight news."
Commercials began to play, and Rebecca muted it. She had to decide right now, Kendra, or her future as a Battlestar Commander, and as if the clouds cleared in her mind, she realized how much of a fool she has been. She walked into her bedroom and pulled out her Military duffle, and began to pack.
"I'm sorry Kendra." She brought her wireless to her ear, and Ken picked up on the other side. "I've been an idiot Ken, I'm so sorry, I'm packing now, and leaving her a note... it's terribly shallow of me I know, but I have to just get away, I have worked too hard to pass this up, like you said,"
It took a moment before Ken replied, "Alright, I'm in room sixteen at the Ocean View Hotel, I'll get an extra bed in here. Look Rebecca, I'm sorry I shouted at you but, you really needed the cobwebs knocked out of your head."
Rebecca closed her eyes and nearly growled, "Alright Ken, I get it. You were right, and I was wrong, let's just leave it at that alright?" She heard him sigh, "Alright skipper, see you soon." And the line went dead, and too her horror, she heard Kendra behind her, and turned, seeing her standing in the bed room door entrance, leaning against the frame, staring blankly at Rebecca.
Several tears fell, and she started breathing heavily, this would not end well Rebecca thought, and she tried to talk but Kendra stopped her, "Don't even start Rebecca. How could you, how could you do this to me? We've been together for two years, and I've been loyal and patient! Waiting for you between your tours, and the only thing I had to show for it are letters, which is it." She was breathing very hard now, tears falling down her face, Rebecca felt a tinge of fear, she knew Kendra could really hurt her if she wanted too.
Rebecca's mouth parted slightly, her own heart breaking in two, "I'm so sorry Kend-"
She screamed then, "NO! A note... a frakking note! Is that what you would leave me to explain your escape to a better life, leaving me behind in the dirt? My mother's dying of cancer! And now you are leaving me as well!" She broke down, sliding down to the floor, motioning weakly with her hands as she cried, and Rebecca tried to approach her, completely heartbroken for her, it was too late now to change anything, the wheels had begun to spin, and nothing could make this better, she has hurt Kendra deeply, and she knew it.
The news of her mother's sickness made Rebecca despise herself in that moment, she was leaving just when Kendra needed her the most, and she felt her own tears welling up. "I'm so sorry Kendra... I'm so sorry, forgive me," Rebecca walked closer, but Kendra launched herself upwards, Rebecca reeled back thinking she was going to attack her, but she stormed into the apartment, knocking over furniture and smashing some of Rebecca's priceless art, which strangely enough, didn't bother her in the slightest. The only thing she cared about at the moment was seeing her most trusted and closest companion take out her grief and loss on anything she could see, avoiding her.
"Get your things and get out... I can't see you right now I... I..." She found another corner amidst smashed vases and strewn kitchen utensils, and sobbed until she couldn't anymore, Rebecca grabbed what she needed, and quickly made her exit, beginning to cry as well. Once Rebecca was gone, Kendra reached into her uniform pocket, pulling out the transfer papers, she read over the line again that mattered to her the most, the thing that she couldn't wait to tell Rebecca about, "Transfer approved," and screamed tearing it into pieces, and vowed never to be hurt again, she stomped to the liquor cabinet, and pulled out a couple bottles of Ambrosia.
Ever since Commander Hall told Rebecca who relayed it to Ken that they would be staying on Caprica for an unknown amount of time made it clear that something big was about to happen, the milestone in his career that would set them on the path they always dreamed, and when Rebecca told him she may bring along a woman she was involved with was simple career suicide. 'What the hell was she thinking? She should have broken it off months ago.' He thought grimly, he didn't care Rebecca was gay, she was his closest friend, and he cared about her, but when her judgement gets clouded he always had to step in and set her back on the right track.
His thoughts were broken when he heard a knock at the door, he sat up from the chair he was occupying and unbolted the door, seeing a wreck of a woman standing in front of him, her face stained with tears and mascara, a mask of pain contorted her face.
He looked at her and pursed his lips, "Come in," Rebecca did so, and simply sat down on the extra bed, staring blankly ahead. Ken shut the door, and ran a hand over his mouth, he would have to calm her down. He sat next to her, and put an arm around her, "I hurt her Ken, so bad... I hurt myself..." 'This will be a long night' he thought, and then rubbed her arms.
"Easy there, it's going to be alright, trust me. Rebecca, I know you two were quite serious, and for a second there, I really thought you would bring her along but... we both know it could not have worked out, you being a Commander of a warship, people depend on their commanding officers more then they realize, and if the crew suspected such a thing you would be a laughing stock for jokes at their expense, you don't want that believe me."
Rebecca shuddered, leaning against Ken. "I just, wish it ended better... she heard our entire conversation."
Ken shook his head then sighed, "Oh frak..."
Rebecca nodded, "Yeah, she thought I was just running away without a second thought."
"Yeah that's rough, but hey, we got each other still, you and me all the way to the top remember?" He offered her a smile, and she managed a weak twitch of her lips.
"I realize now I may have been scared. Scared to commit to something unfamiliar to me, and maybe deep down I knew I would run away from her one day."
Ken kissed the side of her head, "I know, it hurts like hell, but that will pass, eventually. But look, were set, were on our way, and this is a time to celebrate." He got up and walked over to the hotels mini-bar, and chose a bottle of Ambrosia. He raised it showing her, "I'll make you a bet, by the time were done drinking this bottle, we're going to feel a hell of a lot better."
Rebecca couldn't help but laugh, "Jerk," Ken scoffed then feigned looking hurt, "Rebecca Cain am I ever, now come on skipper, when this bottle is half way done, I'm taking you out, my treat." She shook her head looking at him, realizing how lucky she was to have a friend like Kenneth Reid, the one person who knew what buttons to push to make her feel better, other than Kendra perhaps, but she put that thought out of her mind, and the two future command officers went out for a night of fun.
The next three day's played out as Rebecca imagined it, Tauron accepted the Presidents fair and generous proposals, and Rebecca was now rehearsing her acceptance speech for the Ulysses at the political forum senate chambers, she had never been so nervous in her entire life, but Ken stood by her side which gave her the strength to go on after a devastating loss in Kendra.
"You look great, no wrinkles in the uniform," Ken lightly joked.
"Yeah, you think? The President and, my God's some of the Admiralty are here... and..." Ken squeezed her shoulder.
"You'll do fine, just remember the bullet points, that's it, oh and keep your eyes above the crowd no matter what." Rebecca kept nodding, trying to breathe slowly.
"Right, eyes above the crowd, bullet points, shake the Presidents hand, easy enough, yeah." She tapped her foot nervously.
Admiral Cain came up behind to stand next to Rebecca, "You're on in five minutes." She smoothed out imaginary wrinkles in her uniform, "I am so, proud of you, congratulations. You have done this on your own, believe me it was hard keeping Seraph's paw's out of your business, but I managed."
Rebecca was always concerned with that factor, her bastard of a father tried anything to get her attention, and Rebecca hated him with a feral passion. "I hope he isn't here."
Admiral Cain nodded, "Not a chance, he's too busy making cubits and probably forgot," Rebecca nodded, that sounded just like him, she waited until she heard her name called.
"And now with great pleasure, I present to you Commander Rebecca Cain of the battlestar Ulysses," President Adar announced, and Rebecca walked onto the stage between the twelve flags of the Colonies, Admiral Corman stood crisply at attention along with Ken and Admiral Cain between the flags and the podium. The senate chambers were massive, and were filled to the brim with politicians and military personal, many from Ulysses.
The president smiled warmly extending his hand, and Rebecca shook it firmly. Kendra instantly faded from her thoughts as she stood behind the podium, dozens of cameras flashed and she blinked with light spots momentarily burned in her vision, 'frakking great' she thought, 'blinded by the press. ' She cleared her throat, her speech paper sitting in front of her, easy to read, and she looked across the rows of men and woman, and her eyes widened, then looked down at the words, and began to recite them.
"Thank you President Adar, members of the senate, and of course the Colonial Military, Admiral Corman and Admiral Cain. I humbly accept this prestigious honor that has been granted to me, but not without a hard road travelled. I intend to bring my passion and devotion and apply it as Commander of the Ulysses to make it one of the finest crewed warships in the fleet. Now as I assume command a lot will be expected, and I promise I will deliver that much more. I may be young, but I assure you, my resolve and unflinching devotion to duty, honor, and service, will be a driving force in my Command, and will rise to any occasion that may be presented. I will stand strong to my crew, to my people, to everyone relying on the Colonial fleet for their protection and safety; I will stand strong through any challenge, and accept any consequences this oath brings. I'd like to take a moment now to honor Commander Gregory Hall, a man who has served with the military for nearly fifty years, a man who fought in and survived the first Cylon war. But some battles cannot be won, and in this I will ask everyone gathered here to take a moment to acknowledge his sacrifice, and unending loyalty to the Twelve Colonies of Kobol."
The great room went silent, and Rebecca waited for twenty seconds before continuing, "We remember the fallen, their deeds spared us a terrible fate, and we cannot forget the reasons why. Many Commanders before, and after me, have stood and will stand where I am now, brave men and women willing to take on the burden of upholding the preservation of the Twelve Colonies and pledge their lives to a cause greater then themselves, as I do now. The future is always in motion, and the time has come for me to fulfill my promises and serve in the way I describe, history will have to be the judge of my actions from this day forward, thank you all." Rebecca stood back, and the crowd erupted into thunderous applause, and Ken never felt such pride for his charismatic friend, Rebecca had taken the gold with that speech, the proof was apparent.
She shook the Presidents hand again, then the Admirals, and left the stage with her XO as rehearsed. Now back stage she nearly vomited, but kept her composure, Ken walked with her outside for some fresh air. "After all these years together, I have to say Rebecca, you still inspire me." Ken said in all seriousness, and Rebecca took a deep breath, and nodded, "You and me to the end," Ken smiled, "So say we all."
Present time, BattlestarPegasus, operations.
Memories, the one thing anyone can fall back on, and contemplate, 'Should I have done something better? Acted a certain way? Made certain choices?' These are common questions asked over and over when regret grips the mind, when everything else comes crashing down, here at the end of the world, Rebecca felt all of their time was running out. Human beings may not be worth saving after all, looking at everything that has been done, so much, and so little to show for it.
"Forgive us..." She murmured, closing her eyes, unsure who she was asking exactly, the Cylons, the God's, or herself. She didn't realize someone close to her was standing next to her now, gripping her arms.
"Hey skipper, you alright?" Rebecca looked into Ken's dark eyes, and she shook her head.
"I don't know Ken, looking back, I see our lives and what could have been, but knowing the Cylons would slaughter the human race, were they wrong?"
Ken sighed, "Maybe, maybe not, I think about it a lot myself, in all honesty, we may have had it coming, but you have to look at in a different way. Killing billions of humans is not the answer to the Cylons crisis of purpose, in that they were wrong Rebecca; it's a horrific evil that they have done to us, and most didn't deserve it. The Cylons were a perilous mistake, one we have paid for, and will continue to pay for. All we can do now is keep going, and hope, that somewhere out there is an answer for us, one that will bring whatever is left of us some peace, whether it be death, or something else."
Rebecca exhaled deeply, feeling the onset of emotion, "I have tried blaming the Cylon's Ken, but I see it clearly now, the only ones to blame are ourselves. We created them, we enslaved them, wanting easy lives while machines did all our dirty work for us."
Ken nodded gravely, "Your right, but it still doesn't change the fact they are our enemies, and what they have done cannot be forgiven, billions dead, a dozen worlds destroyed, it's beyond any human grasp to comprehend such ruthless wanton destruction. I only hope no one else out there in the galaxy, will ever have to endure such a thing as we have."
Rebecca nodded, "Thinking of such things is futile now isn't it, we are at war, and we will continue the fight until the end."
Ken nodded his head, "Damn straight skipper, we'll take out as many of those synthetic pieces of trash as we can. But that's enough, come on, time to go home sir."
Rebecca pushed off the operations table; "Kendra is alive."
Ken looked down, "Yeah, I noticed, are you going to talk to her?"
Rebecca looked at him, "I thought you didn't want me to look back?"
Ken snorted, "Spare me; it's the end of the world, time to make peace with whatever and whoever you can before it's our time to join the rest of humanity."
Rebecca smirked, "Grim yet effective Colonel."
Ken laughed bitterly, "I'm just a realist, you'll have time to talk to her later I'm sure, but in the meantime, we have a ship to run."
Rebecca rolled her shoulders and neck, "Yes sir," and the two left operations and made their way down to the hanger deck, Val was chatting with some of the deck crew and Viper Pilots before he saw his Commanding officer, he said his farewells and climbed into the Raptor to pilot them back home.
Rebecca tossed and turned in her sleep, unsettling dreams from the attacks, walking down the body lined hanger deck, seeing her crew dead at her feet, was the worst nightmare any Commanding officer had to endure, their ghosts. Rebecca jolted upright, sweat beading her body, and the faces of the dead flashed before her, she held her chest, sobbing, "Lord's of Kobol, please help me." She shakily said aloud, and walked to her private head, and looked at herself in the mirror.
The weeks that have passed have taken its toll on her, her eye lids were black and baggy, and her fair skin paler. Gray hairs began to show through the black, and Rebecca realized this is how it feels to be worn out, and it wasn't even the beginning of a long nightmare, and that terrified Rebecca, how long before her own humanity faded away leaving nothing but the festering rage of searing hatred, and nothing but a grim death to look forward too, she screamed out loud. Banging fists were heard at the door, and Rebecca wrapped her silk housecoat around herself and walked to the door of her quarters.
She unlocked the door, and Sergeant Major Williams had a look of concern on his face, "Sir, are you alright?" He looked her over then around inside her quarters.
Rebecca coughed, "Fine just, bad dreams,"
He nodded, "Were here all night sir, if you need anything at all don't hesitate to ask," He said, and Rebecca nodded, appreciating his concern, knowing her crew was loyal to her gave her comfort.
"Thank you Major, I'll be fine," He tried to give her a small smile, which looked more like a frown, and locked the door for her. Rebecca walked back into her bathroom, she lifted up her bra and looked at her chest in the mirror, the bruises from the first Cylon attack were still there, but fading, and Rebecca always felt a sharp pain when she took a deep breath, Doctor Barsec said it may likely be a splintered bone fragment pressing into one of her lungs or muscles, and added he couldn't do anything about it without surgery, and Rebecca decided to live with it. Calming down now, she peeled off her sweaty sleeping garments and sat in the shower for an hour.
Rebecca didn't get any sleep by the time Major Samantha Vash came knocking at her door, "Enter," Rebecca said loudly, and the Major came into her quarters.
"Good morning sir, no problems to report from mid-watch, and the detailed orders for the Raptor Recon are in hand, here you are sir," She handed the dossier to Rebecca, and she set it down on her glass table, opening it, and browsed quickly over the information.
"Take a seat Major," Samantha blinked, "Sir?" Rebecca looked up at her, "Let's go over the details together, I think it would do you some good to be more involved with missions aboard ship instead of being the go to officer for every station in CIC, now that Hoskins is dead, you have to take over his duties as well."
Samantha twitched an eyebrow, "Yes sir." And she sat down across from Rebecca; she decided to put her to use.
"Looking over this nebula, and seeing the systems here, what do you think would be the best route navigating these radioactive clusters between system delta one, two, and three."
She watched as the Major picked up the files, looking over them, "These systems are dead sir, to our eyes, the Cylons may be able to resist high frequencies of certain radiation and be able to move freely through them, my suggestion would be to send one Raptor only to decrease the chances of exposure to other Raptor crews that are supposed to accompany them." Rebecca smirked, she always knew Samantha was a bright officer; she had short red hair with hazelnut eyes to compliment her hair color, a certain distinct beauty in her own right. Rebecca waited until she finished.
"The Ulysses would be safe here, grid six seven, carom nine one three four, the EMI threshold before the binary suns radiation won't be able to cook us like an egg, sir." Rebecca nodded her head, impressed.
"Well done Major, relay this to Colonel Reid, and inform the CAG to begin the operation." Major Vash gathered the files and neatly set them back; she rose and saluted, "Aye sir," and left Rebecca's quarters. Rebecca crossed her legs and arms as she sat comfortably, and decided to make a round of the ship.
Every minute Val hoped the Cylon prisoner would give up the information Colonel Fisk said their Cylon interrogator would uncover, which would be enough to convince the Admiral to take down the Voroc. Val was standing overlooking the podium in the pilot ready room, the faces of dozens of pilots watching him.
"The risk of radiation poisoning will decrease with only a single Raptor crew for each system to be searched, make your sweeps then jump back. However, if you do encounter the Cylons, do not engage, keep a safe distance and report back, understood? Good. Now, Raptor crews report to your stations, and back up crews, good hunting out there." They stood up when Val stepped down from the podium, and the ready room began to empty. Val gathered the briefings and headed down to the hanger deck.
Major Vash entered CIC and stood next to Colonel Reid as acting second, and handed him the mission dossier and repeated what she told the Commander. "Very well Major, spool up the FTL and jump the ship, launch reconnaissance Raptors and hold position at the new co-ordinates when we arrive."
The Major walked over to the navigation computer, and spoke into her headset, "Jumping in five minutes, all personal prepare for combat jump, Raptor crews be ready for mission updates," She waited until counting down from ten seconds, and the Ulysses folded into space. On the other side the gaseous nebula swirled green and red, and the Raptors exited both flight pods jumping to their respective objectives among the systems. Good to her word, the ship systems functioned normally while keeping a safe distance, and they waited now for the return of their pilots on a snipe hunt.
Val hated flying through nebulas, it wreaked havoc on DRADIS and communications the further one traverses through it, Blackball acted as his ECO. "You know I don't like the rumours' I keep hearing about Admiral Cain, and our own Commander, those two are related right? I don't know if fighting for the rest of my life is something to look forward too."
Val glanced at him in the corner of his eye, "We don't have much of a choice, and all we can do is stay strong to each other."
Blackball nodded, "I got your back Captain."
Val smirked, "Alright let's focus on the task at hand, we're entering system Delta one, begin long range sweeps."
Blackball hit a few keys, "Sweep zero one commencing, hopefully the Cylons left behind some trace signatures, but it will be hard as hell to pick up with all the radiation being hurled around."
Val watched his DRADIS readout, and then cast his gaze back through the cockpit window in time to avoid smashing into a massive bulk of floating debris coming at them at breakneck speed, "HOLY SHIT!" Val nearly snapped the stick off trying to avoid crashing into it, but winged it, scraping along the hull until the ship came free. Val found himself breathing hard. That was too close, and Blackball checked the systems, but not before thanking the God's in a quick prayer.
"It could have been a number of things sir... but it looks like the nebula is definitely frakking with scanners now." Val shut his eyes and took a deep breath, why couldn't anything go smoothly?
"I'm turning us around," Val came up behind the metal object, which was horrendously twisted with sharp edges pointing outwards, and black.
"What the frak is that? Looks like a space station, its seen better days." Blackball commented, seeing it through the cockpit window. Val just stared at it, not sure what to make of it, all he knew was it was definitely ancient; it continued its course sloppily, probably trapped in a gravity field from a planet or something else.
"Start running scans on that thing Blackball, and take some pictures to show off to the fleet," He swivelled his chair facing the control board.
"Aye sir," He began to run a scan, and the results came back quickly, "Sir it's of human design no question, readouts show metal fatigue and damage from small arms fire, remote explosives. And the carbon dating takes it back two thousand years."
Val blinked, two thousand years? "That can't be right... run another scan," Blackball did so, "Same results sir," Val narrowed his eyes, how could that be possible?
"I'm not even going to guess how this floating piece of junk got out here, but it looks like it was purposely scuttled. Let's leave it to someone back in the fleet to figure out, let's continue the mission," Blackball was about to protest, but shrugged, "Yes sir, beginning sweep two."
BattlestarUlysses
Rebecca made her way back to CIC, the familiar swish of air escaping the pressure doors filled her ears as she passed through to stand next to her officers. "Sit-rep Colonel," Ken raised a brow and nodded, leaning on the console.
"We're expecting them back any minute now, but something else you should know sir," Rebecca rubbed her chin, "What's that Colonel?"
The Major and the Colonel exchanged glances, "The Admiral's interrogator has turned up some... disturbing information relating to Jagar. But that's not the worst of it." Rebecca then looked at Ken.
"What happened?" The Major took a step forward closer to the console.
"Our prisoner was killed sir," 'That's just frakking fantastic; he was not given permission to execute the prisoner,' Rebecca thought angrily.
"What the frak happened down there? No wait, first of all, get Lieutenant Thorne up here right now, he better have a damned good explanation for this."
Ken frowned, "He already explained it to me sir, and you just missed him. He said he had no choice, when the Cylon told him what he wanted to know he went berserk, snapping off the restraints like twigs and attacking him, forcing the marines to shoot. Here is what he brought us." Ken handed her a file with papers in it, she opened it, and read over the words carefully.
When she finished reading the report, she thought of Jagar as the cause to further lower the human race, the horror's he has forced onto other's will be avenged, he was just like a Cylon now. "My God's, he led twenty two ships to that planet?"
Ken nodded gravely, "And willingly worked with Cylons to do it. He has to be stopped, if these co-ordinates are correct, then he is planning some sort of attack against us while he hides there."
Rebecca gritted her teeth in anger, that monster cannot continue to exist. "When the recon mission is concluded, were leaving this sector and reporting back to the Pegasus this evidence is irrefutable, and I'll make sure finding this bastard our top priority." The two officers nodded, and Rebecca felt ashamed, how could a human do such things to his own kind? Jagar was a special kind of evil now, one that was simply out of control and had to be put to an end. Rebecca swore she would be the one to see it through.
"Sir, recon Raptors have returned," The speakers filled with the voices of the pilots.
"This is Raven to Ulysses, no trace of Cylon activity in the Delta one system, but we ran into something strange, some kind of ancient space station, what's left of it anyways."
The Major replied, "Copy Raven, you are cleared to land, welcome back,"
"Will-co Ulysses, coming home," Val navigated the Raptor into the hanger pod, and touched down on a landing pad, which then lowered with a hiss down into hanger deck, the other Raptors followed.
"Let's debrief the CAG, then have him debrief the other Raptor crews, see what we turned up." Ken said, and Major Vash nodded.
"Aye aye sir," and picked up a phone, "Captain Bonen report to operations for debrief and orders."
Rebecca crossed her arms, "Colonel you have the deck, I'll debrief the CAG, see that a jump is plotted back to the standby co-ordinates, hopefully Pegasus will be in range."
Ken replied, "Yes, sir, Major, make it happen,"
She saluted, "Sir," and began her calculations. Rebecca walked into the operations room, and Val was already waiting, she handed him the folder and told him to take a look, and he seemed relieved.
"Captain, anything you want to tell me?" Val cleared his throat and crossed his arms.
"Uh no sir, everything is fine, I'm just glad we found out where Jagar is, despite the cost."
Rebecca sighed, "I didn't plan on having a source of information turn up dead, there is something more to the Lieutenants story then he lets on, but he's the Admiral's man, and I don't want an incident on record." Val twitched, she would ignore murder? Val corrected himself, he isn't human, and you can't murder something that isn't human, right?
He shook it off, "I'll debrief the squadron commanders and officers, and we'll be ready when we report back."
Rebecca tapped her fingers on the table, "Very well, carry on Captain." Val saluted, and when he was alone in the hall he leaned up against the bulkhead and nearly screamed. The whole situation was madness, why this had to happen kept repeating itself over and over, after a time he composed himself and continued to the pilot ready room.
The Major plotted the jump in good time, and the Ulysses jumped back from a successful mission, they held position until they contacted the Pegasus. "Sir we have a secure channel open go ahead." The Major said, and Rebecca spoke into the station phone.
"Admiral this is Ulysses actual, we have completed our mission and have discovered intelligence on the pirate leader Jagar, we have his position now sir, I request a mission recall to pursue him." The reply took a moment, and had some static.
"Well done on the recon mission, but I cannot return until my own objective has been accomplished, since you are so convinced he is such a threat, then you have new orders, pursue and destroy him at any costs, spare no resources Commander."
Rebecca wasn't sure how to react to that aggressive statement, and just said the first words that came to mind, "Yes sir, thank you sir." And she placed the phone back into the receiver.
Ken looked at her, "Well?"
Rebecca pursed her lips slightly, "We have orders to search out and destroy the Voroc, at any costs."
Ken seemed surprised, "She didn't give it a second thought before, and now she wants us to risk our lives?"
Rebecca wasn't in the mood, "That's enough Colonel, we have our orders, and he needs to be taken down,"
Ken conceded, "You're right, I'll organize a battle plan with the CAG," Rebecca nodded, "Very well, that's all for now," Colonel Reid saluted, and then headed down to find Raven.
"That was the weirdest thing I've seen out here yet, I've heard of scientists discovering ancient debris before but, nothing like that." Val sat on the edge of his Raptor, going over the shut down checklist and reviewing the scans, he was half-listening to Blackball.
"Uh-huh," Blackball leaned closer, "I just overheard Tower and Ballista, when I went over to check out something on my Viper, were going after the pirates."
Val stopped writing, and then looked up to Tuckers face, "This is going to be one hell of a fight hey Captain? Those boys looked tougher then commando's," 'they are commando's' Val thought grimly, the worst kind.
"Alright let me finish this checklist and we'll get some chow before the de-briefings," Val stood up just as Colonel Reid approached him.
"Officer on deck!" Tucker stated before saluting and standing crisply at attention.
Ken walked up to Val, "At ease men, Captain, were going to the operations room to plan an op."
Val tilted his head, "Yes sir," and the two made their way to operations to plan their attack on the Voroc.
Acheron Kappa, Voroc staging ground.
Jagar sat with his feet on his expensive metal desk, and looked over the two men before him, "There's a reason, you're both alive, and can you guess why that is?" He looked at each mans battered face in turn, "Of course not, you know why? Because I'm the one who carries the weight of our deeds, our actions reflect upon me, and I take the heat for it."
His face became red with anger, "If you ever pilfer ship stores again, you'll be shot and thrown out the base airlock to turn into an ice sculpture," He then swivelled around and looked out across the frozen barren landscape through his office window, their base of operations with a population of ten thousand, all consisting of murderers and pirates, all banding together for their common cause of survival now that the Cylons declared their arrangement forfeit.
Jagar has been laying low since he learned that the Ulysses survived along with another battlestar. The base was stationed on an icy planetoid with a breathable atmosphere, but temperatures so cold it would freeze anyone outside without protective environment suites. He knew Rebecca would be looking for him, and made preparations in case of an attack, from the Colonials or the Cylons.
He got up, ordered two of his roughest goon's to follow him, and headed to the operations center of the base. Snake was looking over the defence plan. "We picked up an unknown signature five hundred clicks of relay A-two, and from the size it must be a baseship or battlestar."
Jagar licked his teeth noisily, then picked up a station phone, "This is the boss, the Colonial's are coming for us, execute silent condition one, all men to their stations, let's show these frakkers who they are dealing with." And he slammed the phone back into the receiver.
"Back to the Voroc, were leaving this system, they can slaughter everyone else for all I frakkin' care." And they left toward the docking bay.
The Ulysses was holding position until it would jump directly above the station and nuke it, Rebecca wanted to take no chances, and already every Viper squadron was flanking the base from both directions, and choosing their targets with Raptor support. The mission was named Operation Jackal. Rebecca listened to her squadrons and Raptors report their mission readiness to engage the enemy, and she nodded to Ken who ordered them attack, "Alright, jump on top of the station, their anti-air batteries won't respond immediately," Major Vash carried out the order, and the Ulysses jumped within fifty kilometres of the planet's surface. Three nuclear missiles launched from their respective tubes, they broke through the atmosphere and fell like fire balls as they annihilated the structure below.
The explosion could be felt through the Ulysses, and the base disintegrated from the nuclear blasts, leaving nothing but smoking ruins and melted metal. The Viper squadrons engaged the bases defence craft, fifty Vipers and ten Raptors, the battle was fierce, and Val was not enjoying himself. Twenty minutes later and it was over, and the final tally was bad, most of Blue and Red squadron was destroyed, and two Raptors. Val ordered any damaged Vipers and Raptors to return to the nest, and the rest to maintain a CAP around the planet.
"Sit-rep Major," The Colonel asked, and Major Vash looked over the mission reports being printed.
"CAG reports all hostiles have been destroyed, and the main pirate base is gone as well." Claps and some cheers were heard.
Rebecca smiled slightly, "Well that was easi-" before she finished everyone standing in CIC were thrown to the deck violently as a proton round punctured a hole cleanly through two engine pod's which exploded in flames as the ship lost its stable orbit and drifted lazily downwards to the planet below.
The scene was frighteningly familiar to Rebecca; crackling electrical components and shattered glass illuminated by small fires, but it was not as bad as she thought, and managed to stand. Ken was hit with something and the top of his head oozed blood down his cheek, he looked frantically at the DRADIS monitor.
"It's the Voroc, it has to be! There are no enemy ships registering on DRADIS," Rebecca had to think fast.
"Order all Vipers to engage the Voroc visually and give us manual firing co-ordinates to direct the batteries," She ordered frantically, and Ken walked over to the gunnery control station and selected the point defence batteries and activated them, hopefully it would give them some protection.
Jagar laughed as he watched the Ulysses take the hit, and he ordered another proton round to be loaded into the main battery, the process taking two minutes every reload, "Well, not so smug now are you, ya pretty bitch." He said looking at the Ulysses from the bridges view port, "Keep those rounds coming boys, a few more of those and that beast is crashing into the planet. Launch everything we have, keep their planes off our ass."
Val once flew side by side with some of the men he was now killing, but he figured it was a favour to the universe, when he saw the Voroc appear around the planets horizon he thought it was a piece of debris from the base until it fired its main gun into the Ulysses, "Frak me! All Vipers check your six and look to carom three six five, the Voroc is besieging the Ulysses, all Vipers on me!"
The wireless lit up with voices, "Roger Raven will-co, rolling in,"
"Copy that, let's get those bastards." Val saw the Voroc launch every plane it had, and like hungry sharks they formed up sleekly and came hard at the Ulysses Vipers, the close manoeuvring of experienced pilots made it an impressive battle, they fought to the death and took out as many Colonials as they could, and the losses were getting sickening, Blue was completely destroyed, and Black was no better off with less than a quarter of the planes they once had, a terrible price, but a necessary one. The Viper squadron leaders fed firing co-ordinates to the Ulysses, and it opened up all banks, rounds flew towards and smashed into the Voroc, and the smaller ship could not stand long against the battlestar, until their main battery fired again. This time the blue crackling slug crashed directly into the middle port side, slicing through decks like butter. Again everyone had to hold onto something from being thrown to the hard deck, but the Ulysses fought on, taking another shot in the belly before the Voroc began to come apart.
Jagar jumped onto the wireless as his ship exploded around him, and opened a direct line on all channels, "I'll see you in hell Rebecca Cain, I'll say hello to your father, after all, I was the man who sent him there. May you die a painful death," and the speaker cut out as the Voroc burst in flames exploding, bodies could be seen as they were sucked out into open space, and the screams of the dying were heard and suddenly cut off over the wireless.
Rebecca twisted a pant leg until her knuckles were white, knowing that man killed her father stirred forgotten emotions in her about Seraph, but she suppressed them, and acted quickly to save her ship, it continued to drift towards the planet.
"Sir, were on a collision course with the planet, estimate time until impact, eight minutes!" announced the Major, Ken looked at her.
Rebecca looked over the power readouts, "How long before engineering get's the main thrusters back online?"
The Major touched her headset, "Sir, it's a mess, we need to activate the fire suppression mains,"
Rebecca nodded, "Do it, and pray it works." The engines were still aflame, and the snipes tried their best to shut off the power feeding the two engine pods, and they were successful, but at a cost, dozens of men were burnt alive saving the ship as the fire suppression foam covered the area's still aflame, snuffing them out.
Rebecca shouted at the Major, "Major break for high orbit right frakkin' right!" She jumped on the helm control, pulling with all her might to keep the ship pointed up, and they began to even out, narrowly escaping the gravitational pull of the icy planet, and drifted back into space.
"Seal off all depressurized causeways and bulkheads, and then give me the final damage report when everything is accounted for," Rebecca ordered.
Ken nodded, "aye sir," then picked up his station phone, "This is the XO, the mission has been a success, DC teams report damage and submit casualty reports to combat." Ken set the phone back into its receiver.
"Hell of a battle Rebecca... we seem to lose more every time," Ken said wearily.
she pressed her thumb and index finger across the bridge of her nose, and she sighed, "My aunt told me once, you don't win war's, or battle's, without risking lives, and in our case, getting rid of these pirates will spare us further problems down the road. Getting rid of them will be worth the price we have paid."
Ken frowned, "I'm sure Admiral Cain will be thrilled," Rebecca closed her eyes painfully, he was right, sacrificing her men like this won't bring them more future victories, and it made her realize how different she was from her Aunt.
"This won't happen again, but sometimes we have to make decisions like this Ken, you understand..." Rebecca looked down, and touched her chest, "Colonel, let's get our people safe, are the FTL's functioning Major?" She looked over to the young officer.
The Major acknowledged her, "Yes sir, we can jump back to the standby co-ordinates any time."
Rebecca nodded, "Alright, make it so, then let's see to our men."
Ken didn't like the plan from the start, it was reckless and dangerous, and he knew if Rebecca went through with it the cost would be too high, and he was right, he muttered silently, did she do it to impress her Aunt, or to get revenge from Jagar? But he knew, every time Rebecca lost crewmen, it affected her deeply, and he could see now in her eyes, the pain of loss, and he felt for her friend. Admiral Cain would send them all to their deaths at this rate. He had to say something, but now was not the time; he only prayed the Admiral wouldn't order them on any more missions as the cannon fodder using Rebecca's loyalty to accept ridiculously perilous missions. He could only imagine how damaged the Ulysses looked now from the outside, and knowing his ship was being used angered him.
Making self discoveries like this served Ken well, and he knew something terrible was coming after seeing the extent of the Admirals will to throw away lives to achieve the objective at any cost. He had to be careful, he was already putting together what happened to Jurgen, and he knew if the Admiral detected any trace of disloyalty she would show no mercy. He watched the CIC go about its business, repair crews were cleaning up the shattered glass and replacing the windows and any other damaged components. "Jump in one minute, all hands prepare for jump," Announced the Major over the ship speakers, and the Ulysses vanished into folded space.
When Val stepped down from his Viper, many pilots were jumping with excitement from the successful op, laughing and cheering as they made their way back to the ready room. Chief Orelon came up to Val, and he handed him his shut down list, he went over it, "Check, shut down complete."
The chief nodded slightly, his expression grave as he took back the clipboard, "Congratulation Captain, hell of a piece of flying out there today," Val nodded, then leaned against one of his Viper wings crossing his arms. "So how bad are we?" The chief grimaced, "Blue squadron is gone and... Red is practically the same, we'll have to assign what's left of Black and put them together with Red, so were down to four and a half squadrons now. As for crew casualties... at least three hundred dead, two hundred wounded last rounded count."
"A God's damned waste," the chief said walking away, and Val wanted to agree with him, but he knew getting rid of Jagar has saved him completely, all the evidence has been destroyed, and he breathed out relief, but felt sadness at the loss of so many of his pilots, all good men and woman. 'The only way I can ever repay this debt is with my life,' Val thought, feeling responsible for lives lost, but he pushed off his Viper and headed to the pilot ready to debrief his pilots. After, he walked back to the officers quarters, lying down on his rack, he fell asleep and dreamt of his wife and daughter, at least the end of the world can't take away memories.
