Lost Tribes Chapter 7, a battlestar galactica fanfic

Disclaimers: See Part One

Lost Tribes

Part 7

"Commander, I always am. Besides I have a reason to come home." Colonel Atraties kissed his wife. He boarded the shuttle with the strike teams. They would raid even as the Fire stars attacked. He grinned the wish list was long. How he was going to fill it was beyond his imagination. But he do his best. He figured the Cylon would be pleased to share.

"Colonel Tyson takes care of my ship and family. We will be back soon. Don't look so worried old friend."

"Yes Commander. May the Lords go with you?" Said Tyson gripping his friends arm.

Commander Noah headed to his Jaguar. He knew the shuttles would need lots of cover." Everyone be sure to hold on to your beacons. When will be stealing their ships and do not want to blast the wrong ones when we return."

Thor climbed into his Jaguar. It had taken a heated argument but he and Dana were going with his father. Colonel Rashid would lead the strike teams with Rorke in charge of the squadrons. Seth and Samuel was in charge of the civilians. That was a job he was glad to have escaped. His Father was determined to get as much Data on the other tribes as possible. He was hoping it go very quickly. The longer the teams were on Kobold the greater the risks.

The attack caught Lucifer completely by surprise. The Base was once again being pounded by the humans.

The attack caught Lucifer completely by surprise. The Base was bang pounded by the humans.

"Gali what is happening?"

"Lucifer we are under attack by the Humans. It appears two of their Fire Stars and several battle cruisers have begun bombardment."

"Launch our raider to destroy those ships and bring up the Base ships." He commanded as he quickly ran to contact Baltar.

"By your Command" Gali said and began to carry out his orders.

Baltar heard the attack begin. And as always his own survival was utmost on his mind. He was running to the command center with Simpson at his heels. A bronze centurion came up and told him.

"By your Command. A separate force of humans has landed 30 hectors from our base."

"How many and what are they doing?"

"Several small ships and shuttles. Another force is attacking the supply depot."

"Intercept and destroy." Baltar ordered." Send a squadron of centurions to deal with those invaders at the Pyramids. I will lead that force personally."

Lucifer came up." Is that wise Baltar?"

"Lucifer you can handle this attack. I will attend the invasion force. They must be after something of value. I can identify what it is. Perhaps they found a way to trace Adama's Fleet."

ANY suspicion Lucifer had been put aside." By your Command. And Baltar be careful these humans are. Different."

"Is that concern Lucifer." Laughed Baltar as he turned and ran to the rovers." Come on Simpson.
She followed aware that Baltar was her only safely. She resolved to try to escape.

The Commanders group landed outside a small pyramid. Agro crews quickly began to gather soil and vegetation.

"Lt. Seth Lt. Samuel keeps an eye on those crews. Major Thor LT .Dana you are with me." Called Commander Noah.

They walked up to the building using their swords they hacked through an eons worth go over growth.

In a little while they found the door. Once again it was sealed… Major Thor removes his blaster." I will open the door Sir."

"No Thor I can open it." Commander Noah removed his medallion. It once again fit perfectly. The large door groaned open. LT. Dana brought a torch up. The entrance was dark and a bit frightening.

"Let me go first Father" Said Thor.

"No. Major I will go you two follow me. Step only where I do. I have a feeling we will be in for a few surprises."

Lt. Seth walked over to a small hill. He climbed it. It over looked the two closest valleys. In the distance he saw something reflect.

"Sammy brings me those field glasses." He called on his communicator.

Lt. Samuel was busy calibrating the soil dozer. He stopped his work and sprinted over to his brother.

"What do you see?"

"Not sure, I saw something…There, Cylon a full squadrons worth."

"Are they headed this way?" Asked Lt. Samuel.

"Afraid so. Let go set up a welcome mat. Let the Commander know."

"Will do, Seth."He ran to the Pyramids entrance. He called in.

"Father we may have a problem."

Thor turned." Commander Let me go see what happening.""

"Go. But be sure to retrace your steps." Commander Noah was using his torch to read a wall. There were several hallways. Each leading to a different section of the Prymid.His time with The Book of the Word made reading the directions rather easy. He found what he was looking for. Directions to an archive of the last days of Kobol.

Thor existed into the bright sun. He quickly added sunshades. After being in the dark his eyes were super sensitive.
"What's wrong?"

"We have an approaching Cylon patrol. A full squad of troops."

"Intercept them. We cannot afford to engage them now." He looked at the civilians gathering soil and sample vegetations.

"I know. Sammy and I will deal with it. We just wanted to warn you. We will take Corporal Regis and Sgt Peter we can set up mines and an auto blaster zone."

"Good. But put those blasters on self district after to microns. We do not want to give these machines our technology."Thor ordered.

His brother grinned and called over the warriors he needed." Let's go."

Thor returned to find Commander Noah opening a new hall way.

LT. Dana followed the Commander in. She had her laser drawn. Like Thor she was concerned about what they might find. Inside was a row of books. All sealed in large containers.

There appeared to be over a thousand volumes. In another corner was a bin. Noah walked over and opened it. Inside he found rare treasures. The Crown of Kobol and other artifacts. Dr Dragon wanted to take these items along.

"Commander we must take these things. We cannot leave them for the Cylon."

"We are here for Knowledge not treasure. If there is room." he noticed writing on the shields and sword." Pack them. But they go last." He now knew they had to take these items. His original plan of merely translating and leaving them was not an option. The Cylon were coming.

"Aries keep up the attack try to draw those machines back to their base."

Colonel Atraties and Colonel Rashid's squad slipped in to the Cylon base. They were here to steal anything that looked useful that was not nailed down.

"Just think Atraties we had to enlist all those yearn ago when we did this sort of thing. Now they are paying us to have fun."

"Yup remember a 20 yearn tour in the military or 30 yearns hard labor." Laughed Atraties."Well at least they have some interesting gear. No food but lots of technology. He was taking out a small generator. It was a hand held machine that was powered by a crank." This could be useful in an emergency."

"Heidi found a larger generator. But how are we getting it out of here?"

"Look out Rashid." Said Atraties as he blasted a Cylon who came in. He dove behind some stacked parts. Rashid rolled and brew his Laser. He shot a second centurion."Looks like they do not want to share...Too bad. We are taking anyway."

The blasts drew Cylon in droves. They were however meet by covering fire. The ships that they had loaded with stolen materials were ready to go.

"Well we got most of the wish list. I hope Noah was as successful."Atraties said

Colonel Atraties called the crews in." Let's get out of here." Colonel lay down cover fire. Lieutenant . Get that ship running we are out of time. Are the Charges set?"

"Yep all we have to do is get airborne and I will level whets left of this depot." Answered Rashid as he blasted two more cylons.

The Commander carefully removed the chest of books. He motioned the civilian teams to gather any data disks as well. The second crew quickly recorded the writing on the walls. Viding every section quickly and carefully.

"25 microns more people. We have to go. No way have I wanted to get caught on the ground"." Commander the Cylon is sending raiders your way." Warned Colonel Tyson." I am launching the Night Ravens to intercept.

"Thanks Colonel we are on our way out now."

The soil recovery teams had almost a full load. Along with seedlings and seed found in a sealed storage area. Maya could not tell if they were Viable and the test would have to wait. With luck they had enough to make up for at least half the loss. That along with the seeds spread though out the fleet would be enough to reseed the domes.

Lt. Seth laid down covering fire. He hoped to force the Cylon off the trail Samuel was setting pressure mines just behind their current location.

Baltar cursed." Get out there centurion we must not allow theses human a chance to escape.""Lucifer prepares to engage the human fleet. Do so for 20 microns then pull back. I want to follow them."

Baltar realized that they had been decoyed. His team would never reach the humans before they launched. He called for his ship." Lucifer sends my shuttle and be on it. We are going to our Command ship. Fall back. Let them think they have won. We will trail them with long range scans." Baltar signaled the centurions to continue to press the attack even as he pushed Simpson down. His action protected her from an explosion which took out the lead centurion."Let's go. We will be safe leading from the air."

Simpson knew she had to go with him. She was surprised he had bothered to save her. After all he had destroyed millions of his own People...

Gai watched the battle. So far Commander Noah was following the leads they had left him. On a more personal note her son had just saved a human life. It was a small mark in his favor considering his many crimes. He had done it not out of self interest but by instinct. Perhaps he find his way back. She dropped The Book of the Word in his path. It was incomplete but could help him begin to remember the lessons of his youth. It was her only way to help him find redemption.

Commander Noah waited directing the loading of the landing crafts. The tech teams were already on the way back to the fleet. Zeus reported the fleet was once again under attack. He knew that they need to return quickly. The mission had been successful but they had to keep moving. The Piscine had to return home and his fleet had to move. The coded transmissions had been translated. The Cylon had another fleet moving in at a rapid pace. They had to be gone and find a safe haven to do repairs. The asteroid belt was not enough cover given the numbers they would soon face.

Baltar ran toward his shuttle dragging Simpson with him. As he ran he tripped landing on his hands and knees. In front of him he saw a small leather case. He picked it up thinking perhaps one of his new enemies had dropped it. He slipped it in his tunic and pushed Simpson into the waiting shuttle. The Book seemed to warm him as it lay against his heart. Simpson reached out and traced Baltar's face. Impulsively she kissed him. A small thank you for saving her life. Baltar blushed not seeing Lucifer.

Maya prayed the seedlings they found could be used. They had been sealed and were all in small crates. They must have stored them for an emergency. She was beginning to think someone had left the supplies for them. She examined the crates as the ship flew back to the KOBOL's Shield. Each crate had a picture of the full grown plant as well as written instructions on how to plant and care for them. She silently gave thanks as she looked over this treasure.

The Cylon raiders engaged the fighters from the Kobal's Shield. For exactly 20 micron they pressed the attack. Falling back in an attempt to fool their opponent.

The Pycies pulled away from the battle along with her escort ships. The Battle provided perfect cover for them to return the Void and attempt to make it home.

The crews returned to the fleet. Commander Noah headed for his bridge. He knew that two Fire stars was no real match for more than one base ship. His teams secured they pulled back the attack. He was sure they had surprised the Cylon enough to get away. He ordered the fleet to regroup and head for deep space. The scanners on Kobol had been destroyed but they still had to worry about the base ships.

"Commanders I want the squadrons ready to attack. Pull them back and refuel. We are going to take out at least 2 of those base ships. Concentrate fire on the closest one. Battleships and Cruisers open fire with your big guns."

Baltar joined Lucifer on the bridge of the Base ship. This shipways well back from the others. Lucifer, like Baltar had a keen interest in surviving. They received a long ranger communication that the Imperious leader was coming.

"Well Lucifer here we go again." Said Baltar.

IL could not laugh but the snort from Lucifer suggested he agreed.

"Let's hope your plan works Baltar or we may both be replaced." Recalling the leader's fondness for his rival Specter.

"Commander the Dark Moon has managed to set that first Base ship alight." Colonel Tyson shouted.

"Good news at last. Is the fleet ready to jump."

"Yes sir on your command Sir."

The life center was busy. Medics were racing around treating the injured and preparing for more. Dara wanted to help but was restricted to her room. As happy as she was about the baby she really wanted to be there with her squadron.

"This is Commander Roma. We have picked up a long range transmission Sir. Looks like the Cylon called for help."

"That is our queue folks. Recall the fighters. Good luck Pycies and crew. May the Lord's bless you and keep you safe. It is time for us all to leave. Once all fighters are secure hit the light speed jump."

The Pycies said one last good bye and jumped back into the void.

"Good luck my old friend. I hope you can convince the Council and make it home safe." Noah said softly.

Lt .Commander Maya barely had time to secure her cargo as the ships jumped to light speed. I will never get used to that she thought.

The fleet's sudden jump to light speed caught Baltar by surprise. He had expected them to stay and fight considering they appeared to be winning. Damn the imperious leader. His communication must have been intercepted.

"Lucifer follows at long range scan. Send out raiders to scan and end back data. It will double our scanning range and may fool the humans into thinking we are not following. I will be in my quarters with the doctor. Send me word of any news. Tell Trey borne to inform the leader of our plan."
He left the bridge with Simpson at his heels.

"Commander we are being followed." Reported Zeus.

"I know old friend. You and Aries take up the rear guard. We will be followed they hope we will lead them to the Galactica. It will be feline and rodent for a while. Colonel refuels our fighters. Recharge what we can of the solar cells. I need to go over the data we gathered at Kobol. For now we will watch the Cylons. Tell al commanders I need ideas on how to lose our new friends. Two centars for options." He began to head for his office as the klaxons once more went off.

"Frak"

"Incoming Sir."

The raiders had been following. They were low on fuel and attacked on death runs.

Oh dear thought Lucifer." We forgot to reprogram those raiders. Baltar will not be pleased. Move the base ships up or we will lose the fleet." Lucifer ordered. How could he have made such a mistake?

Baltar grinned. Yes, it would appear as a programming error. With luck the fleet gets away. Strange how he wanted to save these people almost as much as he wanted to destroy Adama. Maybe because it was not personnel? Simpson watched amazed that he was doing something to save her people. Maybe Baltar was trying to make amends. She wondered what he was planning.

Noah programmed the coordinated into the ships computers. He then transmitted them coded to each of the ships of the fleet. The raider that had been following had been quickly destroyed by the fleets lasers. They was now out of range of the cylons.

"All ships of the fleet prepare for a hyper jump. We are going to try to lose our tails. Once we come out ever ship scan for signs of the Galatica's fleet."

Maya checked the crated. By some amazing miracle over 95 were still viable. They had a range that she had never expected. More in fact then what they had started out with. The planting could begin as soon as the domes were resealed and the soil in place. She could hardly wait to tell here agro crews.

The fabrication ship was finally ready with the parts. The Captain sent a message to Commander Noah. They were really quite proud of themselves. They had refined and rebuilt the dome parts in record time in the heat of battle. They felt proud and amazed that they had done so well.

The ship of light followed the fleet. Just out of range and frequency with them. Gai walked to the council chamber to report her progress.
"Noah has found the maps leading to Earth. We have supplied the fleet with food and fuel. Baltar has helped them elude the cylons...for the moment anyway."

"I know you hope to save your son. That his fall was painful. I hope you can stay objective. His crimes are many and redemption will take more than one good act."Stated John

"I am aware. But surely it is a start? I will not risk my charges for my son. But I too can pray he finds his way home."

"Understood. The Galactica is much closer then Noah believes. I hope he finds her quickly. They once again are at risk. The Cylon leader is on his way." John stated

On As guard Metashopolies felt the shift in power. How could this be. He had Paulus send the troublesome Commander Noah away. He looked and saw the Pieces come back from the void. It was damaged by Cylon attacks. He left at once for Kobol. What were the Cylons doing?

The fleet had lost the cylons for the moment. Commander Noah ordered all unnecessary crewmen to rest and relaxes. No ambrosia but the down time is good.

Lt. Seth was happy. He was in the middle of a game of dice. Major Thor came up and stood by his brother watching him risk a cantons pay. Always Seth and Samuel took great risks. He was going to tell them to be more careful. He was impressed by their actions on the planet but he feared they were both to reckless at Times.

Iblis landed on Baltar's ship. He walked through the ship unnoticed by the cylons. He had to find out what was happening. Baltar was always a favorite of his. He would have news. Baltar watched the exhausted Simpson sleep. She was terrified of him. Yet he could not bring himself to let her go. He knew even if she returned to the fleet and they escaped she would end up in chains and in the brig. He could personally vouch that that was not a pleasant place to be. Maybe she was just like him. Seeking redemption. He considered how to flee to Azguard or Amazonian. He could pose a refuge or traveler. Start over and maybe find peace. No one knew what he had done there and Simpson had her own reasons to be silent. He wondered if he could escape. Metoshopholies saw the two humans resting on the sleeping platform. Baltar it seemed had found a friend. A female. This could be a problem...

Metoshopholies noticed the female. She rolled over curling into Baltar. It was then that he recognized her .Simpson, Paulus former lover. She had been sent to spy on the fleet and to give Paulus a chance to get rid of her. Hmmmm He wondered how to use this new event. For she was as power hungry as Baltar he would not destroy her just yet. In fact she could prove to be useful.

Lucifer sent long range transmissions informing the imperious leader that he had accidentally tipped of the fleet by his transmissions. They were tracking the humans (A lie) and would report soon. He explained that they had allowed the base to be destroyed as a decoy. When in doubt lie. The bigger the lie the better. He had learned that from Baltar's Starbuck and Apollo .The leader was not happy but seemed to except the explanation. Decoys were something cylons did well.

On board the Thunder the scanning teams found faint debris trail .The debris was wreckage of what appeared to be fighter craft.

"Commander Lupos we found something Sir." reported Lt. Colonel Hera.
"What have you found LT .Sir, it appears to be wreckage. Fighters. They are dead in space. No life forms. The pilots appear to have ejected."

"Launch a patrol Colonel and contact the Kobol's Shield. This may be what we needed."

"Yes, Sir. Stingrays will tow here in sir." Answered the Lt. Colonel.

"Kobol 's Shield,"

"Corporal patch me through to the Commander we found wreckage. A fighter."

"Will do Sir, "Corporal Hans said "Commander Noah Thunder has found something."

"Commander Lupos what have your teams found?" Asked Commander Noah
"Sir, .A fighter, .No canopy but it appears to be in tack other wise. Do you want in towed aboard the Kobol's Shield?"

"No, Send in to the Dark Moon .Have LT. Colonel Val go over there as well .I want my 2 best engineers going over that ship. Anything useful I want to know. Commander Good work."

"Thank you Sir. Lt. Colonel Val on her way to the landing bay now. She was going with the teams to retrieve the prize."

Lupus wished the ship was coming to the Thunder but had to agree the Dark moon had better engineering area. It was a new Fire star and had been vastly upgraded in that respect ."I will let Commander Roma and Colonel Atraties know sir."

Commander Noah smiled. He knew Lupus wanted to tear into that ship

himself. He made a note to be sure he got detailed reports second only to himself. The commander was a as cunning as his namesake and as loyal he deserved a detailed report.

His finding of the books seemed a miracle. Noah slowly opened the seals. The book that he took out first listed the last days of the planet .A history of what had happened. The Exodus had not gone smoothly at al .People had panicked many afraid to leave at all. His 13th tribe had not followed the others instead breaking away. So sure that the 12 colonies were headed for disaster. He paused wondering if Zeus and Cain and Hera had had a premonition. He read on of how the people had gotten separated and were presumed lost for all eternity. The rest of the tribe had pushed on to Earth. Colonizing as they went. Some to tired or ships to damaged to go on had settled on habitable planets. Others had found Earth .This journal was a record of one such ship. It had left Kobol went to Earth and latter returned. It had hoped to bring more people from Kobol. They had found empty cities and no human life. They left this record for their brothers and Sister's to find. Along with food and supplies on case they missed anyone...

There was a map of how to find Earth .It was cryptic and coded but in time he would work it out.

Noah had various books spread across his desk. He had been reading for several centons. So far he was still unsure of what direction to take. He got up and walked to the reports of the ship they found. The ship they had found came from the Galactica. It was a star hound viper. Damaged and left behind. He was sure they had had to leave quickly maybe not even stopping for the lost pilots. He hoped this one had been retrieved. His engineers had taken the wreckage apart and had some idea of its original appearance. It was larger than a Jaguar yet smaller then either a scorpion or stingray. It was designed to carry up to 2 passengers. From what they could determine it had a limited range but more armor and fire power then the Jaguar. He found its design sleek and elegant. It looked like it could in the hands of a skilled pilot handle the cylons. The Data recorders suggested that this pilot at least had killed 20 cylons in the attack. The canopy was missing as were many of the controls. One engine was completely destroyed .The other 2 seemed to have minor damage. He told his engineers to create simulations of what they thought it looked like and then a simulation on how it would fly. He wanted to see if they could build a few of those fighters. He stood up and walked over to the books once more. He sighed. Then he saw it. It was the covers. He laid out the books. It was a puzzle. Each book represented a tribe that he had figured out. The random designs on the covers. He shifted them around. They were a map the numbers and letters formed a cipher. He had the coordinates that the last ship had taken. He could lead his fleet to Earth .He smiled and gave thanks. Now all they had to do was find their brothers and sisters with the Galactica. He prayed they were safe.

Maya directed the crated to be cataloged and stored until the Biodomes could be repaired. So far one was complete .The last 3 were proceeding rather quickly. She hoped to begin planting in a sent night.

Dana was glad she was on patrol Since Kobol she had been feeling a bit stir crazy. Lately being around her fellow pilots was hard .She was sure her feelings for Thor were clear to see .She did not want anyone thinking their friendship allowed her to get away with not doing the dirty duties. She grinned. Thinking about the turn their relationship had taken. She prayed that it would work out. She was afraid her heart was his and that she never be the same again. She thought that there were worse fates.

Commander Roma headed for the lab. The ship that was towed in was being dissected by the fleet's best engineers. She wanted a firsthand view herself. On her private com she called and invited Commander Lupos aboard. She knew he was probably not happy with her ship getting the viper .She grinned, her old friend was very competitive but always did what was best for the fleet .In her hand was a bottle of ambrosia. Maybe settling their bet would make him more amiable .All the fleet's commanding officers were in on a pool. They all wondered when Dara make Noah a father again .Lupos the smart aleck had won. He said it be less than a yearn. Roma had figured it be longer. Simply because she supposed Dara want to stay on flight status longer. She grinned this was one bet she was more than happy to lose. Too bad she could no longer drink a toast herself. She wondered if Atraties would be as surprised as she had been. They had been married over 20 yearns. Long ago they gave up on the thought of children. It had been the one point of sadness in her life.

She made the tech run the scans 4 times .then to be sure she'd had then run three diagnostics on the equipment.

In 8 1/2 months she was going to be a mother .It was crazy. She began to wonder what was going on. Maybe it was that clinic they all visited on their last furlong. She just thanked the Lords.

Atraties was covered in grime. He and his staff had torn the viper apart. Val was working on the projections. He held up each part for Val's team to scan.

"Atraties I have it. Come see. "Called Val. She grinned glad that for once she had managed to stay clean." This is one nice ship."

"My Lord it sleek. "Atraties exclaimed." Commander good to see you Sir."

"Thanks Colonel. You have the design stats Val."

"Yes Sir Commander Lupus. It's fantastic. Atraties has the power source figured out Sir .It similar to our own. But no solar."

"So can I join this party or is it private?" asked Lt. Commander Roma
"Nope the more the merrier .our teams have the design. Come on over and see."

"What took you so long? "Inquired Atraties he had been worried. Roma had been ill the last few days...Then the battle. He wondered if she were coming down with the virus.

"I just had to get Lupos ambrosia out of storage.3467 your favorite Lupos.You win the bet." She smiled.

"MMMMM we can pop that and celebrate. We have good news all around." He said.

"I was thinking you and Val could join Atraties and I for dinner. It go well with a nice meal. After the battle we could all use a nice rest."

"Good idea honey. I will even cook."

"I hope so Atraties. Your wife is a great commander…"Laughing.

"Ha-ha Val. I should make you cook for that." Laughed Roma.

"Well I guess we will join you." Said Lupos. Dinner and a fine Ambrosia a wonderful end for a great day."

"I will send Commander Noah the stats and let him know what we are doing here." Said Atraties.

Noah agreed. His commanders need a break. They could rest and he would watch the fleet. He allowed all the Firstar Commanders down time. Their Xo could watch over the ship for the next 12 centars .He wanted to laugh. He owed a few marks as well. He never expected to be a father again. It was a wonderful surprise. He wondered if Maya would consider another child as well. He always wanted a large family. She shoot him he decided. He smiled amused at the thought. Yes, maybe his risk asking. After all the child needs a playmate or 2.

Dara came in and saw his amused look.

"What so funny Noah?" She asked.

Noah burst out laughing." Nothing my dear I am just really happy today."

Dara was not sure if she should believe him. She let it pass as she walked to the books." These are fantastic. Can you read them?"

"Some, I am sure you and Maya could as well. But the fancy scroll work is what makes it hard for me to decipher. The language is not too bad. Just really vague." He answered.

"How many more crated to be catalogued?"Asked Maya.

"Around 30 madam."A young sat replied." We are finding most are good Commander."

"Excellent the domes are almost ready. Once pressure is restored and gravity we can start unloading and spreading the soils. At least we did not lose the livestock ship. That we have a hard time replacing."

The look of horror on the young man's face made Maya smile. It was clear he was not a vegetarian.

xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

Commander of the People Paulus was not pleased. He had received reports that the First fleet had left the know space and entered the great void. As he read the reports it was clear that Commandant Able had sent his daughters Mate to find new support. New worlds and new resources. He knew many considered him ruthless but he was a firm believer in survival of the fittest. Applying that rule he would soon eliminate The Commandant and take his place. He was sure that with the Priest Ibis support the people would follow him they were as the priest said sheep. More than happy to follow a strong leader. Give them a god to follow and a well organized plan and you could lead them to their own deaths with smiles on their faces.

Baltar was exhausted .He had not slept in days. He watched Simpson sleep. Once more he crawled in beside her. He felt strangely at peace. It had been many yearns since he held another human close to him. He sent a silent prayer of thanks for this illusion of peace.

The prayer made Metoshopholies Cringe. It physically hurt him. How could his chosen reject him? He was enraged. He dissipated to decide what to do.

Baltar felt a cold chill run down his spine he jerked up looking around. He saw nothing as Simpson now wake pulled him back. His fear was palatable and she felt sorry for him. Ever so gently she kissed his cheek. Offering solace to a man lost for more yearns then he could recall. He smiled and pulled her close. Forgetting fear and embracing the joy of being a man with a pretty women in his arms. He found his humanity in this woman and he was determined never to forsake it again... Poseidon read the reports. His ship the Pendragon had taken some damage in the recent battle. The repair crews were rapidly fixing the damage. His turn to be on duty tonight. He was glad. His people had really wanted to press the attack and wipe out the Cylon base. He did however understand why Commander Noah wanted to leave. The Galactica was surely constantly fighting to survive. Noah having a deep inner protector naturally wanted to find them and help. He was deeply interested. As a young cadet he had spent hours scouring the ancient texts. He had been excited to that the first fleet was at last searching out their lost brothers. He could hardly wait to see the similarities and differences.

His Wife Cara said he was like a feline always curious and inquisitive. He had laughed that off. He pulled out some ancient texts from his case. He wondered if these old manuscripts could help them.

"Colonel Nera please gets me Commander Noah. I have just remembered I have some papers her he might like to see. Maya watched as the last Bio-dome section was put in place. The crews were sealing the dome. For the last rising the fuel cells had been charging. They would power the artificial suns that would provide the lights for the crops. Atraties crew's had managed to adapt the Cylon generators to fuel the cells. The only drawback was that they used only tylium. She hoped that that would not prove to be a major problem.
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The Lightning pulled up behind the Battle cruiser Strom Chaser. It along with the Pendragon and Thunder were bring up the rear. Lt Commander Eve watched the fleet. She had never been pleased that so many civilian ships had come along. It was good for moral to have families close by but they were a Noah said that the Battle Star Galactica was defending over 200 civilian ships. A rag tag fleet. It sounded like a major headache. She sipped her Java as she read the reports. The journal taken from Baltar had been copied and sent to each Fire Star commander. It went back over 80 yearns. Much was just a daily accounting of life in the colonies. The academies and dealing with the politics of those worlds. They had elected officials and civilians played a large role anther military actions. Eve smiled. At least it was clear why they lost. A 7th generation Warrior she had little use for those who were outside the service. She looked at the pictures of a younger Baltar, Cain and Adama. They were all very striking men. She felt that the job of babysitting the civilians was probably testing Adama patience. Despite the fact that Baltar clearly hated the man he did show him as a capable leader. Eve found herself hoping to meet this extraordinary man. It had been many yearns since she was actually intrigued by a male. She smile to think a hardened Amazonian Warrior like herself dreaming like a school girl over her latest pin up. She laughed ... she must be getting old. Thinking Adama and Eve had a nice ring to it.

Noah hugged Dara her concern was so palatable ."I am fine dear just tired. Maya called the domes are nearly ready. So food will not be an issue .Fuel on the other hand could be. Since you are off flight status would you care to do some scrounging .Check with all the ships .I need a total of all fuel reserves. That last battle drained us some."

"Of course. It be my pleasure. " she hated paperwork but she be bored stiff without something to do . "I have the squadron rotations ready. Thor will speak with the other flight commanders and we will be ready to go as soon as you want to resume Forward patrols." she explained

"Good. Speak to Colonel Tyson. He has my layout for the fleet. From now on at least 2 Fire Star Commanders will be on active duty at all times. Tyson and the other Xo are working out that rotation as well. I want us all rested and ready for anything."

Eve read the reports on the new ship. She wanted to fly it badly .Like Dara she had always loved flying. She was the youngest commander in the fleets .She laughed .Dara be a bit upset if her old roommate got to fly that ship

first. At four yearns older she felt amused that her young friend was going to be a mother first. The com went off
"Commander Eve here."

"Hi Raina Meet me for lunch after the meeting ?"Dara asked

"You know that nickname is hard to take now. "She laughed.

"Raina fits. You still reign terror on all the males of our fleet."

"Thank you so much mommy ."Eve laughed ."It not my fault they all fail to measure up. You got the only good one in the fleet."

"Yep,I am keeping him too. "It was an old joke. Eve said she would only marry if and when she found a man stronger and smarter than herself.

Her skill as a warrior meant few could match her even at twice her age. She thought briefly of Adama and Cain. Those two either might make her rethink her life some. Not that she tell anyone that. "Sure, we can go over getting you a baby shower."

Dara rolled her eyes. She was going to be teased mercilessly.

"Commander we have to stop. The fleet need fuel, Food and water. Our patrols have sound a small system. Three planets. Barren of advanced life. Together with the asteroid field we should be able to harvest what we need." Colonel Tigh reported.

"Good, Send a report to the council of 12. We will stop and resupply the best we can. Maybe here off the track we can rest some ."Adama agreed "Start sending out teams. Fuel first Colonel. Then food and water. We have to be able to move on."

"Yes Sir Commander "The Colonel said as he left.

Adama starred out at the stars. They were so beautiful. They were lovely but he missed Caprica.

Sub Commander Petrous knew he was going to have to fight to see the Commandant. Paulus was as usual up to his old tricks. He wondered why the council did not simply arrest the man.

Simpson rose and slipped away from Baltar's sleeping form. She picked up the Book of The Word and began to read. She was afraid and reading made her feel connected. She snorted image finding faith in the middle of a nightmare...But maybe it was not as crazy as finding love?
Baltar need her. That was one thing Paulus never did. They had used each other for gain and pleasure but she knew it never went any deeper for him. He sacrifice her in an instant to get a step ahead. Baltar said he would as well and yet...He covered her body with his own as the cylons were destroyed by the Warriors. Not the act of a man who could or would not care. He had been a monster and maybe he did not deserve a second chance any more than she did. But according to the Book she held all could seek redemption. She found herself praying that was indeed true.

Metosphlies approached the Imperious Leader. He bypassed the controls and commanded he follow the new human threat. In his mind he place the order to seek them out and crush them. Showing no compassion or mercy. This First Fleet with its 7 Fire Star could not be allowed to find Adama. The combined forces would upset all of his carefully laid out plans.

On board the ship of light John reviewed the Galactica's progress. His calculations showed they were once again off course. Their fuel was low and they were entering Cylon space. How they intended to make it was beyond his thoughts. He planted the idea of hiding in a small uninhabited star system. He had Gabriel Boosting the sensors allowing them to detect the much needed tylium. With luck their mining would take 30 to 40 risings. Long enough for Noah's fleet at light speed to catch up. He prayed they avoided the cylons.

Gai grinned John could preach all he wanted about not interfering but he was doing just that by sending Gabriel to boost the signals. Well who was she to complain. She broke the rules for Baltar.

"Frack ,Starbuck, Boomer my long range scanners show cylons. Let's get back we have to warn the fleet." Captain Apollo ordered.

"Man I hate all this running and hiding. "LT .Starbuck griped as he turned his viper around.

"Buddy just be glad they did not spot us ."quipped LT. Boomer

"Ok lets hit turbos. I hate to waste fuel but we need to hide the fleet. Maybe that asteroid belt. "Captain Apollo said

"Yeh, 200 rust buckets pelted by rock. The repair team will love us Apollo."

"Starbuck you owe me 10 cubits. I told you we had not lost the cylons. "LT. Boomer said.

"Pessimist. "LT .Starbuck answered.

The vipers came within view of the fleet. Slowing as they approached the Galactica.

"Starbuck, Boomer go warn the squadrons. I am going to see the Commander to report what we found."

"Right Apollo. And I so wanted to take Cassie out tonight ."Starbuck replied.

"Well buddy just think We saved you some cubits. Besides you owe me.. so you are broke again ."Laughed Boomer. "Tell you what if we manage not to get into a fire fight I will treat you and Cassie to dinner with me and Detria."

"I will hold you to that pal. "Starbuck said

Adama watched the paper weight rise. He sent it up and down.

Since his encounter with the evil Count Iblis he had once again began practicing using his mind. At first it had been to counter Iblis and to reassure himself that that one was no god. Now it had become a nightly ritual .It relaxed him somehow and made him feel at peace. Some days it was the only thing that kept him sane. He so wished he had managed to save his wife .His loneliness was sometime almost more then he could bear. Illya had always been there for him giving him her support and strength. In his worst nightmares he had never thought she would die before him. His very profession was risky .

Tonight his ritual brought no peace or calm Adama felt ill at ease. Perhaps he was just to tired to go on.

Only in his quarters alone did he give in to his self doubt .

He had never asked to be the guardian of the last of humanity. Adama wondered why it had fallen to him. Rubbing his brow he entered a small hidden chamber. He knelt before the alter and bowed his head. Praying for the strength and wisdom to go on. Adama asked that the Burdon be lifted even as he accepted his role. Surely the Lords would grant him some peace. He knew many in the fleet sometimes even his own family considered him omnipotent