Disclaimer: See Chapter 1

Lost Tribes

Part 14

"Cain is a strong man. I can see why he would be a challenge. But maybe he can do the tasks we need. Besides he cannot begin the raids until the repairs are done. Remind him of that. It may help."

"Yes, I think I will suggest a picnic. Sheba Apollo and Boxey a family thing. If nothing else it will shock him to silence."

The laughter rang across the room. Cain looked up as he suddenly had a funny feeling. Like he was the center of their amusement.

Zeus walked over to Commander Posiden "I was wondering. Can you send over Caraway need to have a briefing on the state of our medical teams. RoAnn 's good but Cara also understand our medical issues. She dealt with medicine for yearns and could probably be a better liaison than anyone else I can think of."

"I am sure my wife love that. Zeus. Thanks you for considering her .I think we need to be sure we are compatible. We may have different medical needs .I am glad you thought of it. Have you mentioned the idea to Noah?"

"Not yet, I wanted to be sure you are ok with the idea."

"Thanks. I glad you asked but the option is Cara's"

"I was sure you say that my friend but."

"I know. The thought appreciated believe me. So far we have lots of information on the Galactica. And it appears that LT. Sheba coming over to fill us in on the Pegasus. I will send a report as soon as we can."

"Good. And thanks Poseidon. Just be very careful. I like Cain but him a bit reckless."

"Yes, But we may need that soon." Poseidon answered "Aries and I will keep him safe .I know we are to be the calming influence."

Zeus chuckled. Aries and Poseidon as calming influences. Yep, H e could see that. "Just remember you need to be defensive not offensive."

"I will my friend." Poseidon said agreeing with Zeus humor. He knew that in the past both he and Aries had been a bit aggressive.

Adama smiled. It had taken a direct order but Cain was finally on the shuttle. They were having a family picnic. They were both going to rest and relax and forget about the fleet. Adama had Starbuck and Boomer fly escort patrol. Hunter flew the shuttle. Apollo, Sheba had also come along. With Boxey and Muffit of course to keep them on their toes. Eve sat at his right. He felt like a kid skipping school. It felt so good not to worry. Eve had brought along a friend Diana. She was looking Cain over like he was a prize bovine. Adama grinned, Poor Cain he was in for it. Diana clearly liked what she saw and was more than willing to chase it. The second shuttle held his daughter Athena and much to his surprise Commander Aries. Aries had laughed and said he was ordered to take a break. It seems that Commander Cain and perhaps Athena was match going to making as well. Adama was content and at peace. This Family outing was indeed a good thing.

Adama had hoped to begin rebuilding old ties and friendships. He hoped that these ties would help Cain want to stay. He had missed his friend and worried that his reckless nature would lead to his downfall. While he knew that ever warrior was a risk he wanted to be sure Cain was around to see Sheba and Apollo sealing. He had a feeling it would not be much longer now.

Diana was impressed. Commander Cain was every inch a warrior. Despite his temporary limp or maybe because of it he looked like a jungle feline. Ready to rip in to any opposition. Like Eve she long ago given up on meeting the right man. But Cain was making her reconsider. Maybe she offer to help rehab that leg and foot. Smiling "Playing Doctor" Might be fun. After all she was an expert at rehab. Might as well offer those talents to their new friends. All in the name of Fleet harmony of course.

Yes her friend was right Cain would be an interesting Challenge

Cain was uneasy. It had been yearns since he had any real downtime. He hated to admit it but Adama was right he needed to spend time with Sheba. The last yearns apart had been almost too much to bear. He smiled at Diana. She was a pretty little thing. She barely reached his chin but her red hair warned of a fiery spirit.

They all existed the shuttles.

"Major, How is it you are here?" Asked a surprised Aries

"Well brother dear it is a family outing. Eve thought you might like to spend some time together." She teased.

"Brother?" Asked Athena

"Yes, That rude baggage is my "Little Sister". Aries answered. Eve was right he missed Diana not that he ever admits it of course.

"Little. Aries I can still toss you." She joked.

--

Baltar was pleased it had only taken a centon to load all the water they could carry. He looked around. This world was truly lovely. He toyed with the idea of staying and making it his new home. But no he had to warn Simpson's people.

He watched her frolic in the water. Totally relaxed and trusting. Odd it felt good to be trusted. He knew he did not deserve it but, he would live up to it. He smiled. The Colonies were gone but he could help save her worlds. Yes, he would. He go to their leader confess his sins and pray that the man would listen. He might be destroyed but he be free of the guilt that had been eating him alive for 4 years or more. For good or ill Baltar the traitor was seeking redemption. He walked away from his new love. Finding a small rock he knelt down. He had been reading the Book of The Word. It said that one could always repent and seek forgiveness. His sins were beyond belief but he would try.

He bowed his head and prayed.

"Lord, I am the worst of all your children. I have been evil and have done so many evil things. I know forgiveness is too much to ask for. But ,I would seek to save the People of Azguared and Amozonia.

I can never make up for my deeds. But, I no longer want to serve evil. Please show me a way to help them. My soul and life are lost but maybe I can save them."

Across the galaxy Metoshopholies screamed.

His favored son sought to return to the light.

"Please cast out the evil one and let me find peace. "Baltar prayed.

And in that instant of total surrender Evil was cast out of Baltar heart .

The Angels in the heavens cheered.

Gai smiled her son had found a way to ask for redemption.

'Be at peace my son Soon you will have your chance.'

She was concerned because even as he rejected evil the deceiver would now try all the harder to win him back.

Simpson came upon a praying Baltar. His words touched her heart and soul. Whatever he had done he had suffered. She knelt beside him and joined his prayer.

"Lord show me the way to find the good light."'Please help Baltar find his way back.' the last said in silence as she acknowledged her new feelings. Whatever Baltar had been he was now her new love. She wanted to help him find his way back and to have a new life. If it was here or on her worlds she did not care. He was her new life. This man had shown her that change was possible and that maybe just maybe she could do good things.

As Baltar prayed the seal he wore glowed. The light from within encased them. Within the light Baltar looked up.

'Baltar, Simpson welcome. I am so pleased that you have sought to redeem yourself.' Gabriel said.

"Who...What are you?' Asked a terrified Baltar.

'I am Gabriel. In the days past we were called Angels. I am here to offer you a chance to redeem your souls.'

"How?" Asked an equally frightened Simpson.

'It will not be easy and you will need to face the King of lies. Face him and drive him away.'

"How, "Baltar fell to his knees" I am evil beyond belief I have done so much wrong. "he wept in true pain for his deeds.

Simpson fell beside him holding his weeping form.

'It is because you have done these things that you will be able to face him. You know him intimately Baltar. That means he will find it hard to trick you. He will be able to tempt you but deception will not be as easy on you. You will see his evil and thus be able to fight it...if you chose.'

"If I chose?"

'You have and always will have free will. I cannot make you fight him only allow you the chance to do so. It will be hard on you both. Your pasts will haunt you. However if you remain strong and follow through I can promise you redemption. A new life and peace. The decision must be yours.'

"I see."

'Baltar I must also tell you that without your help the Home worlds will fall and they will be destroyed by the Cylons. With your help they may survive or at least have a chance. In doing that they can and will be the 12 Worlds salvation.'

"Then there is no choice Is there. He took Simpson's hand .She nodded agreeing to follow him anywhere. "Please Gabriel show me the way. A favor first however?"

Gabriel brow rose.

"Please, can you Seal us?"

Gabriel smiled. "I cannot. It is a good and honorable request."

"Baltar it is ok. Soon as we return home ok."

"Yes, My dear. I just wanted you as my Lady my rock. This time I want to do it right from the beginning."

'Baltar, I cannot seal you but there is one who can.'
He showed Adama walking nearby.

"He would kill me."

'No...I will arrange it. There is one who he will listen to.'

Adama had wondered away from the group. He was strangely restless. As he walked a light encircled him. In an instant he was far away on the other side of the planet.

'Be not afraid."

He looked down to find his clothing glowing white.

"Am I dead?" He asked.

'No, But I would ask a service from you Adama.'

"Who are you?"

'My love surely you remember me?'

"Illya. "he ran to he embraced her "My love I have missed you so. "he kissed not believing his eyes.

'And I you Adama. I have need of you my love. And what I will ask will be hard.'

"Anything. "he said as he held her.

'Adama, you believe in redemption in second chances?'

He looked into her face wondering what she meant.

"Yes ,but,"

She silenced him with her fingers to his lips.' there is not much time .I love you and shall always love you. So what I ask now will seem harsh and strange.'

"Illya?"

'Baltar is here on this planet. Before you say anything. He is getting 1 last chance. A chance to redeem his soul To do that he needs you. Your forgiveness and mercy.'

"I cannot..."

'You must. There is much at stake. I cannot tell you more but ,trust me. On the souls of our children I ask you to help him .He was once you closest friend. Remember who he once was and who he can be again.'

"Illya He killed you, Zac and millions of others... Billions" Adama pleaded .His eyes tearing.

'Illya smiled And now he will help save millions.'

Adama frowned worried. "Alright ,What must I do. "He hated the idea but as always his love would guide him.

'He meet someone who fills him with love and hope.'

"Simpson?"

'Yes ,he has found honor again and wishes to seal with her."'

"So I am to seal them?"

'Yes Adama'

"Lord" he paced "Alright .I will do it ."he hated the idea but in the end he trusted his wife.

In an instant they were all together along with another.

'Thank you Adama' A voice said 'I always said I would be at my Son's Sealing'

"Mother? "Baltar gasped.

'Yes, My son I have prayed for this day.'

"Shall we proceed "Adama said

And so it came to pass that Baltar was Sealed to his new love. And in that Sealment found peace and the will to do good.

"Thank you Adama." Kneeling Baltar cried" Forgive me."

Adama looked at his old friend and saw genuine remorse. Sadly he embraced him. Maybe his wife was right and Baltar had changed. He found himself hoping that was indeed true. "I do . For whatever it is worth I do."

Then in that instant he was back amongst his family unsure of what had happened. He looked down. His clothing was normal once more. In his mind he heard.

'Be happy my love. Find peace and love with my blessings. 'He felt a gentle kiss as Illya left him.

"Father there you are. We have been looking for you. The Women have the feast laid out." Apollo said.

"I am coming Apollo. "Adama said as he looked back and then went to the meal. He felt strangely at peace. Shaking his head he walked over and sat down beside Eve. She looked very lovely.

Illya watched her family with a heavy heart .It was good to see them all again .Beside her Zac walked up.

'Are you all right Mother?'

'Yes ,They all look so good. I pray they find peace and happiness. Sheba and Apollo now there a good match. Bethany will be pleased.'

'I am my friend. But it hard also. To see them all. My poor Cain. I fear Diana will give him a run for his cubits. ' Bethany said

'Indeed she will. But I am thinking he needs someone to do that. 'Illya said 'just as Adama needs Eve.'

Bethany walked to her friend and gave her a hug. It was hard to watch their husbands move on. Yet ,it gave them each a sense of peace.

'In life I would have blasted him for even looking at another. Yet, I am glad he will not be alone. Maybe he will stop trying to join me to soon now. 'Bethany said.

'Adama had our son ,and daughter plus the fleet but he needs someone. Eve will be good for him.'

'Mother ,Bethany how can you be so calm. They will seal?' Zac asked

'Because we love them. Zac we are gone. As much as we like to we can not hold them or give them the love they need. Life goes on my son. They love us still but need living partners. Because we love them we must let go. It the only way any of us can find peace. 'Illya explained

'It not fair.' Zac said

'Life never was Zac. But at least we can know they will not seek to join us to soon. That what love does. It makes life worth living and fighting for. Do not begrudge them that.' Bethany said

'You are right but I miss them so.'

'We all do. Let go we have work to do. 'Bethany said. She kissed Sheba and Cain and then disappeared.

The group was laughing and joking. Cain looked up and around. He had suddenly smelt his wife's perfume .Sheba looked at him a question in her eyes. Cain smiled .It must be a memory he thought. A memory of a past picnic...

Baltar rose. He looked around and the only one with him was Simpson .She had wrapped her arms around him and held him as he release all his sorrow.

"Thank you. You will never know how much your faith in me means. I am not a good man and Have not been for more yearns then I care to think about. But as of the moment you became my wife I promise to try to always do the right thing. To seek the safety and welfare of others first .Together we will warn your people and do what we can to help keep them safe. Maybe we can take them to the colonies."

"What about the cylons?"

"Oh, I think I can come up with a few unwelcome surprises for them .I am the one man who know more about them then any other. That knowledge will help keep your people safe and maybe even save the Colonies." Baltar said" let's go my wife. We need to leave. I think that even though Adama has forgiven me he still like to lock me up. And as much as I deserve that fate." He paused" I need to try to help correct my sins."

"Alright, Husband let us go. We have a few days travel ahead of us. We can stop on the moon of Gaoring. There is a small colony there .It was my home .We can decide how to go ahead from there. My family is stubborn but like you I need to make amends."

They walked away heading to their new lives. Unaware that Gaoring was nothing but ash. Paulus troopers had killed everyone...

"Adama, I hate to admit it but this feels wonderful ."Cain said.

Boxey ran around. Muffit was chasing him around the camp.

"Silly daggit. No fair. Give me that mushie."

Adama and Cain laughed watching the boy run.

"I can remember when Sheba was that small. She had a Daggit."

"Yes, I did Scamp was his name Father."

"And boy did he live up to it. "Cain Laughed "He ate my favorite swagger stick."

"I remember that. Mother tried to get you another but you knew Scamp ate it."

Adama laughed "What did you do?"

"Kept the new stick, kissed my wife and built a house outside for Scamp."

"He cried for a week."

"Yes and so did you. Then you snuck him into your room. "Cain said

"Sheba you didn't" Apollo said fighting shock

"Well Apollo and Athena gave the dog my Boots as chew toys." Adama said.

"We did not." Athena said.

"Yes you did. they thought it keep me home." Adama said with a grimace.

"So that's why you came to the inspection in trainers?" Cain said laughing" Old Commander Kronos was not a happy man.

"What was I supposed to say? Sir, I had my boots all shined and ready for inspection ...but My Daggit ate them!'

The group roared as Adama finished the story.

"To happier times. Family and Friends. "Cain toasted.

"To family." Aries said he looked at Athena. Yes Family I think I will consider that idea more closely.
--

Colonel Tigh walked over to Commander Noah .he really liked this man .He was glad he had gotten both Adama and Cain to take some R&R.

"Sir ,I have those old intelligence reports you requested."

"Thank you Colonel. You look worried?"

"I guess I am just worried about the fleet. Old habits die hard."

"Colonel when was the last time you had a furlong? "Asked Noah

Tigh smiled" Not to long ago Sir. I will take time again soon. Thank you for asking."

"I can watch the fleet Tigh is you care to join Adama and Cain."

"Thank you. Perhaps next few risings. I still need to get used to having help."

"Understood. We are not trying to take over. Just give you all a chance to recharge.."

"I understand Commander. But, to be honest I have a hard time relaxing. Maybe once Adama back I will take a few days off."

"Alright. Colonel you and the others have worked wonders with the repairs and supplies. You all deserve a pat on the back."

"Thank you Sir. Now if you will excuse me i have to check on the status of the refueling."

"Good luck Colonel Tigh see you latter."

Dr. Salik was impressed. The medical facilities on the Kobol's Shield were state of the art So far he was finding few differences in the physiology of their new allies. And yet he had seen Thor use his mind to pin Reece to the wall .He had many questions but was unsure where to begin.

"Dr .Salik .can I ask you a question?" RoAnn asked

"I be glad to answer any I can."

"This is embarrassing but. Can you do anything for my knee. Your technology is a little different then ours so I was wondering?"

"I am not sure RoAnn. Can I examine you? Maybe we can do something. To be honest I not sure But I can try."

"It not that I mind but it interferes with my duties. I get so sore and exhausted. I'm afraid I will fail."

"RoAnn from what I have seen you are a gifted doctor. I wish I had you natural talents believe me."

"Thanks Doctor. "She said as she sat down on an exam table.

"How did you heal Thor?"

RoAnn blushed." I just willed the injury away. I not sure how it works it just does."

"And your knee?" questioned Dr. Salik

"It only works on other people. "RoAnn explained" It really tiring. I usually never do that ... But Thor would have flown injured.

"Thor reminds me of a few warriors I know. They are all good but a bit to hard headed. They all want to always be in the thick of things." He scanned the knee" I may be able to rebuild the knee. It take surgery and there are no promises. However, It should at least cut down your pain level .I can give you a detailed report on the procedure and you can think about it. You be on crutches for a long time .Up to a yearn. We have to break the leg and reset it. Because of the nature of the injury it would have to heal without any quick fixes. We could not use the knitter."

"I see .Why?"

"The knitter work fine on a regular break. But we also have to cut issues and reform the whole joint area. Replacing damaged bone with new prosthetics. The knitter never work on that." Dr.Salik explained

"And it be a bit better at least. I be able to walk with out the brace."

"RoAnn you will probably need a brace but it be smaller and lighter. To be honest yours is the worst case I have ever seen. It is amazing that you can walk at all now. I can try. We have a chance because of Dr. Wilkers work. He made some wonderful advances in prosthetics. Mostly because of his research on the cylons. That helped us develop newer stronger artificial joins and tissues .But It 50 - 50 on how well it will work. I can ask for his input and then let you know." Salik explained

"How long the surgery?"

"Two to four centars. Depending on what we find."

"Thank you Doctor. I will consider it. For now I will just get back to work. I appreciate your help I know you are busy."

"RoAnn I a Doctor. Like you I always have time to answer questions."

Dr. Salik walked RoAnn out of the exam room." I think you need to consider it carefully RoAnn.As I said there are no real guaranteed solutions. But I think we can make you a bit more comfortable. In the end you need to decide if the risks are worth it."

"Thank you Doctor I will think it over. It been a part of me all my life. However, it is getting worse. I am afraid in time I will not be able to walk."

"Even if that happened you still be a good Doctor."

"I guess. Maybe it is the cultural thing. We do not deal well with any illness or weakness. If I been born a 100 yearn earlier. We would not be having this conversation."

Salk frowned ."Inficide?"

"Yes. I'm afraid so. It still happens… with Paulus in charge and Iblis. "They both fell silent.

"Athena the food was wonderful." Aries said. He was aware that all the women had cooked the dinner.

"Thanks but we all pitched in. It was fun."

"Yes it was "Cassi said" I have been a long time since I cooked.

"Me to. Sheba said. "Maybe ,we need to do it more often."

"That be great." Starbuck said "Beats the mess hall."

"Or field rations. "Boomer said he was punched in the stomach by Detria

"Ha haa. men. Next time you guys can cook. "Hunter added.

"No way Hunter. I like to live to see my next Natal day." Athena laughed.

After the Meal Cain walked along a small lake.

"Father."

"Yes baby?" He said

"Can I talk to you a micron?" Sheba asked

"Yes."

He stopped and looked over the water. The sun was beginning to set.

Sheba paused she had been so sure if what she had wanted to say. Now she was unsure. "Father, Why did you leave me." Her voice was that of the small child she had once been not the warrior.

"I… ."he turned and saw her look of deep pain" I 'm sorry .I did what I had to do."

"That is not good enough. I understand you are a warrior but you left me .Father I was so frightened."

Cain walked over to her and took her in his arms .Sheba cried .Cried for her lost friends the colonies and her lost faith.

"Cry baby, I am sorry .I never meant to hurt you .Forgive me. Sometimes I to much the Warrior and not enough the father. I only wanted to keep you safe."

"But. .I almost was lost .Not just my life but my very soul. If not for Apollo I would be lost now." She wept. "I failed you and Mother .I lost faith."

"I am so sorry. I can not promise never to fight or leave again...but next time I will at least say goodbye."

Sheba wept. It was a small comfort but she knew it was the best she get .She resolved not to give him the chance no matter what it took.

Apollo watched. He was angry ,angry that Cain could not see how much his leaving had hurt his daughter. Apollo knew now that he was deeply in love with Sheba. The idea that she hurt was enough for him to want to beat Cain to a pulp. A wary grin set on his face. Well at least now that he was here he could ask for Sheba to Seal with him. He ask her in the next day or so. That way Cain could be there. Maybe he'd even ask the old daggit formally for her hand.

Adama laid back in the grass. It had been yearns since he had felt so at peace. Next to him Eve stretched out. She rolled over and brushed his face." Cubit for your thoughts?"

He laughed" They are not worth that. I was just thinking that It feels good to not worry. I can almost forget about the fleet. Your people have saved my sanity. I have been so wary and tired." He rolled over looking at her." Odd that I am so relaxed. Maybe because Noah to holds a Seal and it like looking at a mirror."

"NO, I think you are a bit better looking. More distinguished ."Eve said
Adama smiled

Eve leaned over and kissed him genteelly. "Besides I never kiss Noah. Maya and Dara have my head on a platter."

That lightened the mood and Adams chuckled. "I am glad. I think I like to have those kisses for myself."

"Good. Then I shall save them for you. Did you know that Noah thinks it be a good match?"

Adam's brow rose." I could be. Time will tell." He considered the idea. Not since he meet Illya had he been so instantly attracted to a woman. The idea of not being alone held strong appeal. Odd he almost envied Baltar. He had seen what he wanted and grabbed it. Maybe for once Baltar had the right idea. Hold on to the good thing. Adama knew that Eve was going to be important to him. He felt it deep down. His nature was however careful .But he knew they had a good start. Sealments had once been used to make family alliances. He consider that. It be good for the fleet.

Edit Tuesday, October 21, 2008