Hello everyone, as you have probably guessed i am back! Thank you all for your patience. I know it has been a long wait and some of you, mostly anonymous guests, have made your annoyance at my lack of updates known. However it has been two months and you'll be happy to hear that like the cylons i have a plan. Yes that's right i know where this story is going and more importantly how it will end. Now that is not to say that any suggestions you have aren't welcome. I have an outline but it is not set in stone so if you have ideas i would like to hear them. Now without further ado, the latest chapter.

Calium

The resistance forces had set up shop in an old military outpost that had been largely abandoned when the mines in the area had been rendered redundant by the discovery of the larger algae fields that now formed the main hydrogen production facility. However despite their small size there were still some algae fields present, something the Zarasians had overlooked when they conquered the planet. It helped that the magnetic field in the area was markedly stronger and provided natural defences. The Zarasians had some fearsome technology compared to the Calium's but they were still just as effectively short sighted. The Zarasians though were strangers to this world. Their pilots did not know the secret ways through the skies filled with rocks. Their pilots did have the experience of fighting pitched battles in a sky filled with debris, which impacting meant death. The Calium pilots did, their fliers may be small, fragile, primitive and lightly armed but they had pilot quality and in this case that beat technological quality. The cloud filled areas around the resistance base had become a dead zone, no Zarasian fighter craft that had entered it had yet survived. Whether the Zarasians knew of the resistance presence was unknown, but for now the Zarasians were staying well clear of the area. Presumably they had bigger concerns to deal with.

The resistance leader had taken some persuasion to meet with the allied forces. Not that they could really blame him since they had pulled out when things started to go downhill. It didn't exactly help though that the young Commander had known Commander Kavier and was having to deal with the fact that his old mentor was now a puppet of the enemy.

"Commander Quintose, please calm down," Thor requested politely.

Quintose responded by slamming both palms on the surface of the Weir's holo table.

"Do not expect me to be calm when you tell me that one of the greatest men the Calium military has ever known is now working for the enemy," Quintose spat back. "An enemy which has invaded our homes and who my operatives are telling me are rounding up my people for some unknown purpose."

"Look he is not working for the enemy," Sheppard argued. "He is being controlled by them and that is a fact you have to acknowledge. They used him to sound a cease fire and allow their troops to land in your cities."

Quintose seethed so Thor took it as an opportunity to continue.

"The enemy are still allowing your ships to continue moving between the islands, transporting goods as necessary and even providing security. It is likely that their crews are under Zarasian control however that does present us with an opportunity. We can use your ships to infiltrate the cities and secure a beachhead for our forces."

"What do you need our ships for?" Quintose asked in a calmer tone. "You have technology that allows you to appear out of thin air or snatch someone away. One moment I was in my office, the next I was in space of all places."

"Unfortunately the Zarasians have a way of disrupting that technology," Thor explained. "However once we establish even a small beachhead we will be able to bring in additional forces."

"I don't like the idea of going in heavy on my own home soil," Quintose said.

"We may not have a choice in the matter," Johnny said. "Our scans tell us that your population count is dropping. They're moving people into their base where the stargate is and presumably shipping them off world. If we wait too long the majority of the civilians will be in the line of fire. If we want to do this we need to send in our people now. Now we can send in teams on the quiet to get into position to shore up the civilian areas but the capital and that base require us to hit hard and fast."

"Alright fine," Quintose relented. "But I want you to run everything by me before we make a move."

"Of course," Sheppard said.

From amongst the storm clouds and rain filled sky a small fleet of Calium airships emerged. The resistance ships moved through the sky with a single purpose. Showing no sign of aggressive action that might indicate they were on a mission of freedom they moved slowly and carefully. To the casual observer they weren't anything to rouse suspicion. A fork of lightning briefly lit up the sky, and the light briefly revealed a large armoured figure standing on deck. The Titan stood tall, unconcerned by the lighting, wind and strong winds that swirled around it, waiting for the moment that would eventually come. As the lightning flashed it was reflected on the armour of dozens of figures, dozens of Titans of all types, standing on the decks of the airships.

They were the silent guardians, annihilating any enemies that dared to approach. Stationed on these airships they would lash out at an enemy before the airships own weapons ever could. Their mission was a simple one, to guard the area around the resistance base and destroy any Zarasian fighters before they could get close. Arguably this would attract attention but by forming multiple roving groups they could cover a larger area while maintaining the illusion that they were independent groups not working to defend a centralised location.

Their role was purely defensive, not even attacking the enemy unless they came close. They couldn't afford to cause the Zarasians to adopt a defensive stance out of fear of attack. If that happened they would have to fight tooth and nail for every building on each of the islands, something they were not equipped for. Admittedly yes they could do it given sufficient time but with civilians in the middle of the battle it would be a meat grinder. Besides the allies didn't have the manpower to waste on urban combat. Open combat yes, but not urban combat. For now they needed to bide their time and wait for the opportune moment to strike.

Under cloak a lone Earth made jumper soared through the skies of Calium towards the capital city. Onboard were the two pilots and a pair of unremarkable individuals. Dressed in an earth coloured peasant garb they could pass for any of the local populace of a number of worlds, including Calium. At a glance they were nothing much to look at. Mid thirties, dark hair and with a light layer of stubble on their cheeks, they certainly seemed average looking. But if one looked more closely, specifically at the eyes, you might suspect these men were more than they seemed. They say that the eyes are the window to the soul. If that were true then this particular window offered a view of stormy weather.

As the clouds parted the Calium capital was revealed. The stark contrast between its current status and the way it had been before was shocking. Before the capital had been a vibrant hub of activity, the docks overflowing with airships travelling to and fro while military vessels patrolled the skies. Now it was practically lifeless. When the Zarasians took over every airship had either been grounded after the crew surrendered, or shot down when the crew refused to surrender. Only one had been shot down, the sight of the airship plunging to the ground after only a single shot from an attacker they couldn't see being enough to convince the others to co-operate. Now the only things flying were the scant few Zarasian supply ships carrying food and other precious resources. Although if you looked closely out the window you could actually see a fast moving shadow that marked the presence of another group of Zarasian fighters on patrol.

Touching down gently in an empty alleyway the puddle jumper deposited its passengers before taking off again and flying away, all the while cloaked. With the hoods of their thick cloaks shielding their faces against the wind the two men set off down the street, mindful of the patrols of reapers. As they trudged through the crowded streets they couldn't help but take in the atmosphere, feel the fear and the suppressed rage of the people around them. Following the flow of the crowd they arrived at the city centre, a crowd had gathered in front of the presidential building, which more of a city hall than a white house. Still though it was a grand building, quite impressive really but that wasn't what drew the eyes of the crowd.

On the steps leading up to the presidential building stood a man, a Zarasian. One glance was enough to tell you everything you needed to know about him. His marked face, his heavily muscled arms despite the fact that his stomach had stopped being flat long ago, that arrogant smirk and those mocking eyes. His left arm had been severed at the forearm and replaced with an artificial one, but instead of a hand he had a five fingered claw and what looked suspiciously like an energy weapon. Those claws were clamped firmly around the head of a native Calium on his knees before the Zarasian. At a guess the native was male but the poor individuals face was so badly beaten that it was hard to tell at this distance.

On both sides of this pair stood a hulk, energy cannon at the ready, while a ring of reapers stood before the steps, preventing the crowd from coming any closer. What really drew the eye though was the towering bulk of the behemoth standing behind the Zarasian officer and his victim. The sight of it alone was enough to hold back the crowd without the reaper presence.

"Not a good time to do anything Smith," the taller of the two muttered to his companion.

"As you say Smith," the other man muttered back.

"Let this be an example to you all!" the Zarasian officer roared. "This man attempted to assault proud Zarasians. He tried to subvert us, your rightful rulers. We who are the ancestors chosen. He failed. He was caught. And now, now he shall be punished for his crimes."

He raised his left arm and forced the man to his feet. He smirked and nodded to the brute. With a roar the beast swept back its arm and swiped at the hanging body. Its claws must have struck around the neck area because the head remained where it was. The body however was sent flying by the powerful blow, travelling a good thirty feet before landing with a splat. Cries of horror could be heard and even the odd sob could be heard from the crowd.

The crowd were shushed by the roar of the behemoth.

"Remember this well," the Zarasian roared. "Those who serve willingly will have long and happy lives. Those that do not will pay the price."

With those words he turned and walked up the steps, striding into the building as if he owned it. With that the crowd dispersed, heading off in all directions. The two Smiths went with the largest group, heading towards the industrial zone.

"I think we're being followed."

"I think you're right."

They broke away from the main road and took several turns through narrow alleyways, with a figure in a dark cloak following them. They subtly increased their pace causing their tail to break into a light jog to catch up. Just as the pursuer rounded the corner tall Smith slammed into him, forcing him against the alley wall. With his left side mostly pinned in place he was down to his right arm, only to have that held in place by small Smith using his own left. Glancing down he noticed that his knee was right between tall Smith's leg and in a perfect position to deliver a painful blow. Small Smith noticed this glance however and flexed his right hand, activating a mechanism that deployed a long and very sharp blade.

"Don't even think about it," small Smith warned as he raised the blade to press against his throat.

"What do you want?" the pursuer asked nervously, very aware of the blade against his wind pipe. Up close he appeared no more than a boy. Even though he was into his twenties his fear made him seem younger than he really was.

"We could ask you the same question," tall Smith replied. "And as it happens we are. Now talk."

Tall Smith nodded to his companion who moved the blade back about an inch to make it easier for their captive to talk.

"I saw you in the crowd," the man spluttered. "You weren't afraid. You…you're not from around here, are you? Are you here to help us?"

Though the two didn't show it they were slightly annoyed by this fact. This was the problem with sneaking into a small community in an isolated area, the strangers got noticed.

"Maybe, who are you?" small Smith asked.

The man hesitated. "My name's Korvus." He glanced down. "I'm nobody."

"Don't play coy with us son," small Smith said. "We noticed you too. You were trying not to be noticed, but we noticed you because you were trying too hard. You've clearly never tailed anyone before either."

Korvus glanced down again. "Do you mind?"

Small Smith looked to tall Smith, who nodded back. Small Smith flexed his wrist and the blade disappeared. The two men stepped back and Korvus found himself free, to an extent anyway. He had no doubt that if he tried to run or even shout that blade would be through his neck in an instant.

"Don't son," tall Smith warned. "It won't work out for you."

Sighing in defeat Korvus reached down and opened up his cloak, revealing a Calium military uniform.

"Well, well, well, isn't this a turn up for the books," tall Smith said with a small smile on his face. "You a deserter?"

"No!" Korvus almost shouted in outrage before his voice took on a tone of defeat. "I'm a survivor."

The Smiths glanced at each other.

"I know a place we can talk," Korvus said.

"Good because I want to hear this one," tall Smith said.

Korvus lead the two of them to an abandoned building that clearly seen better days. Planks of wood covered up windows that lacked so much as a sliver of glass, blocking the interior from view. Thankfully it was not too dilapidated to live in but just enough to keep people away. This Korvus fellow may not be able to tail someone but he had an excellent choice in hideouts. After the two men were seated on crates Korvus began his tale.

"I was on one of the warships when they came. Our commander told us not to fire on them. He had the entire crew in quarters, guns locked down. We weren't supposed to do a thing. The other officers weren't having any of it though. They wanted to know why were suddenly letting the same guys we had been shooting down not too long ago land on our home."

He shuddered as the memory came back to him.

"I was in command at the time, just minding my station. That's when it really went bad. The commander told us that we were to land the vessels and surrender to them. That if we went quietly we wouldn't be hurt. Then a ship went down after one hit. One damn hit was all it took to take down one of our most powerful battleships. One hit and it was split in half. Hundreds of people dead or dying from an enemy we couldn't target or even see. I knew people on that ship. I grew up with people on that ship."

The Smith's looked at him grimly. Watching your friends being slaughtered and not being able to lift a finger, that was something no one would want to relive.

"After that everyone pretty much gave up. Who could we fight? The enemy were on our soil so we would have to fire on our own homes to target them. They would take us out without presenting a target. It was hopeless. When we finally set down they started rounding us up. My ship happened to be docked on the island so when I saw my chance I took it. When they started placing these…things on peoples backs the trouble started. People started fighting back and in the commotion I was able to get away. I just ran, and kept running until I lost sight of everyone. First chance I got I stole this cloak to hide my uniform. I could have gone home but I didn't want to get my family involved so I've been hiding out here ever since, keeping my head down and my eyes open."

He looked at them expectantly.

"And now you're here."

The Smith's glanced at each other.

"Look son there is something you need to understand," tall Smith begins. "We're not here to fight. We will if it comes down to it but we're on a fact finding mission first and foremost. We're here to gather information so that we can't these guys off your world as quickly and as easily as possible."

"And how long will that take?" Korvus asked bitterly.

"As long as it takes," small Smith replied. "But we need to do this to keep the casualties down, and not just on our side. A city full of civilians is not a good place for a pitched battle if you want to keep those civilians alive."

Korvus frowned as he thought to himself for a moment. "What can I do to help?"

"Plenty," tall Smith said. "We need any information you can give us. Who's in charge? What happens and when? How many Zarasian officers there are on the planet? Who's in charge? What are the names of the people with power? Who are the civilians we could maybe turn to for help? Things like that."

"Speaking of who's who I don't know your names yet," Korvus noted.

"I'm Smith and this is Smith," tall Smith said. "No relation."

"Doesn't that get confusing?"

"Nope, I know he's him and I'm me," small Smith joked. "Besides we don't usually talk to other people on the job. If it helps then you can call me Smithy."

"Alright," Korvus said, shrugging off his momentary confusion. "If by officers you mean humans then I've only spotted between ten and twenty. Those things, reapers I think they're called, are usually out on patrol. The human, if you use the word loosely, in charge here is that bastard you saw today, putting on one of his little shows as he likes to call them." He grimaced in disgust. "His name is Malek and even his own are afraid of him. I'm pretty sure that if he were to die tomorrow no one, Zarasians included, would shed a tear. I can't tell you about the other islands though."

Smith and Smithy shared a brief look, which Korvus caught.

"What is it?" he asked.

"There's a reason that we were sent to this place in particular," Smith explained. "When we first arrived here we scanned the planet for life readings. Naturally we picked up a lot of aliens that didn't belong here but we also found something weird. This isn't the only settlement on the planet but it is the biggest, correct?"

Korvus nodded. "This was our original home, legend has it that this island was once on the land below but was detached after miners dug too deep. All the other islands are home to small mining towns with maybe a few thousand people at most. Why?"

"When we scanned those areas they were only inhabited by reapers and a few humans at most."

Korvus sat their stunned. "How is that possible?"

"If I had to guess the same thing happened to them as the rest of your military," Smithy said. "Most likely they had a string attached to their back and were sent off world."

"Where would they send them?"

Smithy shrugged. "We don't know but intend to find out. Have you noticed anything weird?"

"Now that you mention it yes," Korvus admitted. "The only craft I've seen in the sky are the supply ships that bring in food, water and other resources. Some ships though…they arrive here empty and then they leave but I couldn't say what they were carrying. Although…"

"Yes?"

"There have been stories about people disappearing from the island. They get this official summons to come to a special meeting and then are never seen again."

"How certain are you of this?"

Korvus shrugged. "Like I said it's just stories but…I swear the number of people around is dropping. At first it seemed like we outnumbered those reapers ten to one at least. Now though…well the number of them around never seems to change but it doesn't feel like we outnumber them by that much anymore."

Smith and Smithy sat in silence for a few moments as they processed this new information.

"Is this place safe?" Smith asked.

"As far as I know," Korvus said.

"Then we'll use this as our drop off point."

"What do you mean?" Korvus asked, as Smith and Smithy began pulling various cylindrical shaped pieces of technology out from under their cloaks.

Ignoring the question the two began to assemble a tall cylindrical device supported by four stubby telescopic legs. Finally when the various pieces were slotted together Smith pulled out the final piece, a fist sized red crystal orb that locked into placed on the top of the cylinder. Once that was done Smithy reached into his pocket and pulled out a small blue power crystal. He hesitantly placed it into a small slot on the side of the device before pressing the activation switch, causing the device to emit a gentle hum as it powered up. Despite the fact that it seemed to be doing nothing more than emitting a faint glow from the blood red orb and the various white lights dotting its surface Korvus still eyed the four foot high structure with a certain amount of fear.

"What is that?" Korvus asked nervously, his earlier fear of these two strange men having returned.

Again though the pair ignored him and Smith spoke to someone unseen. "Weir, relay is active. Three to transport."

"Who is…?" Korvus began to ask before the question died in his throat as his vision went white and he suddenly found himself in a completely different place. The crates, the wooden floor and even the wooden walls were gone. In their place was drab metal, in a style shockingly familiar to him and he quickly realized he was on a ship of some kind, but not any kind he recognized. This hadn't been built by his people, it was alien. Looking around the sizeable room he noticed a number of humans in strange dull coloured garments, uniforms of some kind judging by their general conformity. Worryingly a number of them were carrying what appeared to be large weapons similar in design to his peoples own designs, though these seemed much more fearsome. It didn't help his nerves when his military training told him that he had his back to the wall, was completely surrounded and massively outgunned. Also that his two companions had managed to move clear out of the line of fire without him even realising they had moved so much as an inch. He had heard the stories about these people from another world and the technology they possessed but the ability to make someone disappear and reappear in the blink of an eye was fearsome. What if they chose to make him reappear in space? Or worse, high in the sky where he would have a long way down to think about his inevitable fate? What was to stop them? His shoulders slumped as he realised the answer was nothing.

Resigned to the fact that he was completely at their mercy, ancestors help him, he asked the only question he could, "What are you going to do with me?"

"Well first," a middle aged man with spiky hair began. "We're going to give you a little lie detector test to confirm that your story is true. If it is then we'll say welcome to the resistance. Oh and I think we'll start by giving you a good meal because frankly kid you look like you could use more than a few."

"And if you're not satisfied?"

"If your stories true then you'll have nothing to worry about."

Sheppard turned to the two Smiths as Korvus was escorted away. "Good work agents we'll be sending you back now. As soon as we know the results we'll let you know and you'll be clear to continue. Until then hold your position."

"Thank you sir," Smithy said. "But if you want my opinion I think we'll be okay with this one. My experience tells me we can trust him and from what I can tell he certainly appears to be telling the truth."

"No offense agent, but in this universe, hell this galaxy, things are never that simple. Besides at this point we can't take the risk."

"Yes sir."

With that the two disappeared with a flash of bright white light.

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