Disclaimer: See Chapter 1

Lost Tribes

Part 15

The thing was Adama wanted Eve for Himself, the fleets need had to come second. He wanted her to want him. Adama the man not Adama the Commander of the Colonial Fleet. He take her that way or not at all. Anything less would break what was left of his heart.

Eve felt his confusion and fears. How could she explain that she understood. They both wanted the same thing. The Attraction had been instant. If anyone had said she falling love in a micron... At first sight. She have said they were insane. And yet? It felt right. She hoped he see that very soon.

Noah returned to his quarters. Dara was sound asleep exhausted from the days chores. He smiled as he checked on her. Ever so carefully he covered her sleeping form .He could not believe that she soon gift him with his 5th child. He never expected such a gift. Of course he was not looking forward to the late night swaddling and feedings at all. But then maybe he could get the women to do it all .No, He do his share .He still wanted Maya to give him another. She shoot him at the idea. But then turn about was fair play .It was her idea he was sure. He kissed Dara and walked into Maya's room. She was waiting up for him.

"Hello my dear."

He wonder how he had deserved to be so blessed.

"Hi, yourself… ah Maya?"

She did not completely trust the look on his face. It was positively wicked. "What?"

"I had a thought. "he said as he kissed her and drew her close.

'Oh, No ... no way... Isn't 5 en-"

Noah's kiss made her forget the protest.

'Please, just think the children can play together' His thoughts showed happy children romping and running.

"Oh lord..."She looked at him. Considering the idea "maybe."
Knowing full well as always he get his way. She just hoped it not be twins again.

Noah chuckled.

"Noah I swear if its multiples you are doing all the work!!"

Commander Lupus was very pleased. Val and Atraties had finished work on the new viper design. The proto type be ready to fly in less than a cectons .Val's idea to add a tail gun gave the new ship a nice stinger. It would require slightly more fuel but Atraties adaptation of the new solar cells would help eliminate the fuel issues. He And Roma had been arguing over who got to tell Commander Adama the good news. In the end they flipped a colonial cubit. He grinned. For once he beat his buddy .She took the loss with grace but promised revenge when she learned it was a 2 headed coin he borrowed from Starbuck .He'd look forward to it. They been friends and rivals forever and it made his life more than a little interesting. He was still smiling remerging the meal Atrocities had cooked them and the fine Ambrosia they drank. That loss had been one she been happy to lose. Now if he could just get Val to agree he start another poll. One on when his firstborn was to arrive.

News was spreading throughout both fleets. The Alliance was approved. Within the Colonial ranks there were grumbles as the new Command structure did not allow the Council any real impute. Adam's declaring martial Law once more had angered the Council members. They were further shocked to learn that they would not be heading to Azguard or Amozonia. The protests were flying in from every ship in the fleet.

Colonel Tigh sighed. So much for a peaceful time. He had hoped that they have at least a cectons or 2 of peace and quiet. He watched Commander Noah read the protests. Adama was still planet side. He was going to be very angry when he returned. SO far they had been able to keep his and Cain's absence from the fleet a secret. However too many people were demanding to see or speak with him for that to contuse much longer. As much as he hated to do it he has to let Adama and Cain know what was happening.

"Colonel Tigh. It truly amazes me that Commander Adama has been able to run this fleet. These demands are positively ridiculous. We are not under Your Councils Command and in Truth the Galactica should not be either. "Commander Noah said. He had returned to the Galactica upon receiving an urgent message from Colonel Tigh. Neither Man wanted to risk the fleet learning that their 2 Colonial Commanders had snuck away for a brief furlong.

"Welcome to our world Commander. It has been like this since we left the Colonies. They have no idea what we have to do to just get enough Food. Water and Fuel to go one more day. Someday I just want to resign but there been no one else to cover us." Colonel Tigh said

"As much as I hate to call them back we better. Or your Council will think we done away with them. I wonder if they have a clue how much they truly owe all the warriors of the fleet." He shook his head as Colonel Tigh sent a recall code. He truly hoped they have a full day away Well 8 cantons was better than nothing. Maybe once the fleet got used to the rotating command structure Adama get more rest. He smiled. Maybe he find a micron or 2 himself. But he knew for ever micron he spent worrying Adama spent centons.

"Blasted Council. Adama I have no idea how you have managed to deal with those fools for so long. By the way I am sorry that I never really appreciated the way they and having the fleet effected your chooses." Cain acknowledged

Adama brow rose. This was a telling concession from his friend. "I understand. I guess I have always had to deal with them more then you. So they are just part of the package. I never admitted how much I wish I had your freedom. Let's go before Commander Noah and Colonel Tigh lose patience .As much as I'd like to we cannot toss them all on the prison barge."

"You know Adama sometimes I think the councils more dangerous than the Cylons."

"Oh. I agree with that. Latter I will tell you some of what they have done while you were gone. "HE laughed "I do intend to take charge now .I tired of their games and from now on they will know we are in charge of the fleet." His resolved look made Cain almost pity the fools.

Eve smiled. Adama looked relaxed and yearns younger. It was clear he had really needed a break. Even the strongest warriors needed to recharge. From their conversations she knew he had not had real down time in over a yearn. She resolved to see that that fact changed as of this moment she saw Diana's and winked. The broad grin from that quarter meant that Commander Cain to was in for a surprise. If the men were not smart enough to rest then the women in their lives would arrange the rest for them. It was clear to Eve that Diana had clearly decided she wanted Cain. And Cain poor man had no idea what intent Amazon Warrior Would and could do to secure their chosen. Noah clearly wanted these two men safe and happy so it was up to the women to ensure that happened. Sometimes Eve thought Duty was actually pleasure.

"Look councilor, Commander Adama and Commander Cain are busy at the moment. They have much to discuss dealing with the new roles they will play within this combined fleet. The Commander wants to ensure that The Pegasus stays with us this time. So he and Commander Cain are working out a way to ensure that. Any questions or concerns the Council may have can be addressed upon their return to the Galactica."

"And where is Adama and Cain now."

"I am afraid that is Classified Councilor." Tigh said.

Noah's brow rose. Along with his growing respect for Tigh. Classed that was a good way to put it. It seemed that the council always sought their own safety and comfort first. Never dreaming that Adama and Cain might need a break. "I would be happy to answer any question you like to present. But, I will not be dictated to. I am a direct descendant of the last Lord of Kobol .Rarely have I used my position but you gentlemen are seriously making me reconsider."

"What do you mean?" Asked Sire Uri.

"I mean that by the ancient laws of our people I can have you all tossed in the brig. You are clearly a threat to the peace and welfare of this fleet. And before you say I do not have that right I suggest you read up on your Colonial Law. I have and I will not allow any more of your games. It is to Adama's credit that he allowed you so much freedom. Freedom requires responsibility and you fools have no clue what that truly means."

Adama and Cain walked in. They heard the last bit and both men had to bite back a smile. Adama had hoped that this confrontation never happen but he supposed given the council arrogance it was bound to. "Commander, I will deal with the council. I understands you wished to speak to me?"

Councilor Duran looked over. Adama entrance could not have been timed better. He noticed that both Commanders seemed more relaxed and there was definitely something different about Adama. What was it? Then it dawned on him he was in battle dress. A laser hung at his side. He looked like Cain and Noah. A warrior one who was no longer willing to play politics.
Several council members mutter and looked at Duran. He was after all a solicitor.

"Commander we are just concerned about the safety f the fleet. We mean no disrespect. I know the old laws they have not been exercised in generations."

"Perhaps if they had been this would not have happened." Cain added

Baltar brought the shuttle down a few klics from the settlement. Simpson has said her parents had a farm outside of town. The fields were burnt out. This troubled him. It looked like the area had been attacked. If he was not sure he has said Cylon did the damage. Seeing the burnt fields Simpson tried to run ahead. Baltar caught her around the waist. "No. slow down we need to be careful .Some things happened here .We need to be careful." altar's every instinct was screaming danger but he needed to know what had happened.

"Councilor while we have not utilized those laws they were never revoked. And even if we had done so in the Colonies it would not bind Noah. In the past few yearn I have allowed the Council a voice in the running of this fleet. That voice has often almost leaded us to disaster. I am done allowing that The Council of the 12 was original founded to rule civilians. And that is what you will do from this day forward. You will have no say in military matters. Anything effecting fleet safety and security will be dealt with by me, Commander Noah and Commander Cain. I will not risk warriors anymore to cover you foolishness. If this is a problem I will send you each back to your ships and declare total military rule. You have 1 centon to decide."

The Council was struck dumb. Even Sire Uri had to admire Adama decisiveness. His tone suggested no comprises would be offered or allowed.

President Tinia looked at her friend. He seemed recharged and more than ready to fight the whole council. While she did not agree with his tactics she could admit he was right. They had made many mistakes. Even back to the original council of the 12. Adama and Cain alone had protested the peace. The Council had over ruled them saying they were war mongers. While it was true that Adama was a great Warrior he never sought War. She remembered hearing that Adama had once served the religious orders before entering Warrior training. The two commander's recommendations for caution had been ignored. Cain had been sent away to Molocay and thought to be lost. She now knew he been right not to return.

"Adama you can not mean that. The military has always answered to the council of the 12."

"And where has that gotten us? "Cain demanded "It destroyed my 5th fleet and almost killed the Pegasus. So Councilor what next you be wanting us to blow up our ships? "A not so settle did at what have been suggested at Carillon." Frankly I'd have left the lot of you there to rot."

"Of course not but-"

"Madam President. I respect you above all on the Council but there will be no discussion. If you truly cannot live with my decision then feel free to leave the fleet. Quite frankly I am tired of trying to protect you all from your foolishness. "Adama said "It is clear that you will continue to act foolishly. We have enough people serving on the Galactica and Pegasus to begin again. If Noah's ancestors could do it with only a fire star and battle cruiser crew, we surely can with the combined crews of the Pegasus and Galactica. So make up your minds?"

"Adama you can not mean that?" Duran said clearly in shock.

"I have never been more certain Sire. Decide! As Commander Cain has said the Council of the 12 is far more deadly to the human race then the Cylons."

It took the council only moments to agree. Clearly they were shaken by Adama's words. Never did they think he decide to leave them. In those moments they all realized how lucky they had been. A subdued Council left the bridge escorted by Warrior security. Within microns all the council was heading home to their ships.

"Well done Adama. "Cain said "I am surprised you did that."

"So am I. Maybe you are a bad influence my friend."

"Come on I will take you to the rejuvenation center. It looks like you could use a drink. "Noah Tigh Join us?"

Colonel Tigh smiled "You buying Commander?"

"Sure."

"Well then let's go." Noah said.

"Omega you have the bridge Adama said.

"Yes Sir," A smiling Omega said "And Sir well done."

Adama nodded ad turned to leave with the others following.

As the Command staff left Omega called down to the rejuvenation center. He ordered the men a round of drinks on him. After all they finally put the council in their place .It was a site he never dreamed of seeing. It was worth the cost of a bottle of ambrosia to see.

"No "Cried Simpson as her rant to the ruins of her home. Outside her family lay dead. She ran to her Mother and found her shot. Next to her was her younger sister Dee. And bit he barn was Darin. His head smashed in. She looked around frantic. Surely someone was alive. Baltar's heart ached. He seen many killed by his order. But this site actually touched him as the destruction of the colonies had not. Simpson found her father next to her mother. He had covered her body with his. He to be gone. In his hand he held a piece of cloth. It was White and gold. A button was attracted .She looked at it. Screaming. Baltar gathered her in his arms as she wept.

"Baltar it was Paulus. Paulus did this. He knew...he knew they were my family..."She wept Feeling betrayed to her soul. While she had been helping him Paulus had killed her family. And burnt her home to ash. "Damn him ."She cried

Baltar was at a loss on how to help. He felt sorrow for surely he had done this to many as well. The only comfort he could give was to let her cry. He silently promises justice for her family realizing the irony of the vow.

Father was that wise? The council can make no ends of trouble? "Athena said

"They always do. However, it is past time to put a stop to their foolish actions. Without the 1st fleet we would have been destroyed. The council's games have come to an end. They can rule the civilians as they are mandated to We will run the fleet. Safety is now going to be the key."

Baltar walked around the settlement. The place was in shambles .He seen a lot of destruction but it was beyond belief that humans had done this to their own kind. He knew he been one of the worst humans in history. A traitor. But even he never personally killed any one. It seemed a small thing maybe even irrelevant but he knew that for the cylons the killing of humans was impersonal and just something they did. This killing was personal. It was clearly a slaughter. He shook his head. At least he could understand the desire for power. He remembered how he lusted for it and betrayed everyone for that. He was sadden by his past. But maybe because he understood he have a good chance of defeating this Paulus. After all they appeared to think alike.

Thor and Dana followed Starbuck and Apollo back to the rejuvenation center. The Officers club was packed.

"So what do you all do to relax?" Asked Dana

"Well ah… We play primed or tryaid .It all depends. "Starbuck said "Personally like the cards. A game of chance a pretty girl, vintage ambrosia and a stogie what else could anyone want."

Dana laughed this one was definitely a scoundrel.

"Pyramid? I not familiar with that game? How is it played? "Questioned Thor ."I like something to do to relax."

Starbuck grinned. "It is easy really. I can teach you."

Apollo groaned "Thor I warn you he is good."

"Thanks Apollo but I would like to learn this game. Maybe when we are done I can teach you daggers."

Now it was Danna turn to sigh. "I guess they are going to play games. So buy me a drink Apollo and I tell you about our Jaguars."

"Sure. We let them work it out. Starbuck just remember to keep it friendly."

Maya awoke with a smile on her face. Noah was beyond belief. You would think 5 children be enough .She smiled Well she always wanted another girl .Maybe they get lucky. She got up and headed for a quick shower. She had to check on the transfers of foodstuffs and seeds to the colonial fleet. Life suddenly was sweet and exciting once more. She was very happy for any number of reasons.

Commander Lupus took his lady over to the Rising star. He heard they had wonderful food and dancing. He decided after the last battle that he definitely wanted Val in his life. So he began to plan how to achieve that goal. Maybe she just needed an old fashioned courtship. Besides it would give them a chance to observe their new allies at play. He thought that be a good way to see how they truly were. The rising Star had people from all over the fleet there. He was eager to meet them and see who they were.

Commandant Able was saddened at the need to send his son away. He was a good man but unable to defeat Paul's. By sending Jashua out to the Colonies he hoped to save his life and maybe just maybe save a few people there as well.

His son walked over to him.

"Father we are all ready to go. If you will not let me stay then come with us. Let Paulus have the worlds. More flock to Matostopholies daily they no longer respect or care for you. It dangerous here. Paulus will kill you if he can."

"Jashua I took an oath to protect our people from all harm. It even covers harm from within. I cannot leave. But you must. Go to the colonies save those you can and Lord willing in time you will rejoin the First fleet."

Jashua hugged his Father and left. Unable to bear the sadness. He knew that his father would not survive Paulus evil. But for the sake of their people he had to leave and try to find these 12 worlds. He wondered if anyone was left alive or in the cylons had already begun colonizing those worlds.

Adama, Noah and Cain all headed for the rejuvenation center. They had much to discuss and saw no reason not to be comfortable .Cain laughed and promised to host the meeting the next time.

When they entered the room it fell salient. The three were impressive sight. Most of Adama's crew had never seen him in anything other than a dress uniform. His sudden appearance in battle dress shocked them. Ignoring the looks they took a table in the back.

"So Noah how are your commanders taking this new command structure?"

"It's not really a change for them. With the exception of Aries and Poseidon it's the same. I am sure we will have teething problems from the civilians but the warriors are all eager to meet your pilots. We have long been a military society so they see no real change."

"My crew is just glad to be back with the fleet. Tolan said they all want to stay this time. I am inclined to agree. We done all we can to slow the cylons down. But now with the Fire Stars we can actually fight them. "Cain added.

"So you think you can raid their bases successfully then?" Asked Commander Noah

"I need I do. We did it quite well on Gomoray. There a Cylon base not far from here. It has fuel and ammunition. It also a major trade route for them. That is where I suggest we raid. We should be able to get the ships you want and maybe spare parts as well. That base manufactures base ships."

"So they might have it heavily guarded?" Adama asked He could not believe what Cain wanted to do.

"It will be. I wanted to take it out before but we did not have the firepower. That base has supplied over 1/2 the base ships we have faced. It also makes transports. So we take the whole thing. Hopefully intact."

"What? That is crazy." Adama said

"But they never expect it. "Cain added he looked at Noah hoping the 1st Fleets Commander agree.

"I agree it insane but then we could really use those facilities. We just could not stay to long."

Adama considered "As much as I hate to agree. I am tired of running. We will do it .Cain and his strike force can go in first. Take out any base ships and then we will take that base. If however we cannot capture it we will destroy it."

Cain beamed he never expected Adama to agree .But it was a great feeling. "Agreed .But only if we cannot take it. "He be if he failed this task.

"Agreed .Cain if we cannot take the base then we destroy it totally. But if we can we will stay long enough to builds as many ships as we can. Take any transports and everything that we can use. We do not stay. once we got what we need we leave destroying what is left. "That said because like Adama he did not care to linger in Cylon space.

Adama and Cain agreed that they needed to inform their 2ic as quickly as possible. The idea was crazy but the idea of going on the offensive felt right. Adama was tired of feeling like a coward .He smiled Tigh was going to be so surprised. Maybe just maybe they could capture a 1 or 2 warships. He hoped so Tigh deserved his own command. Cain had also wanted to reward Tolan. Adama smiled as he headed back to the bridge of the Galactica. The other Commanders with the exception of Eve were all returning to their ships .Eve had agreed to share dinner with him. All in the interest of going over the status of the supply runs from the planet. Adama suddenly felt 1/2 his age. Meeting up with these warriors had revitalized him and made him actually believe they make it to Earth. Adama entered the bridge .Tigh walked over and smiled. "Everything is going smoothly for once Commander. The supplies have been disrupted and the fuel and water are being loaded .The Miners have managed to fill over 1/2 the fleets tanks along with the Galactica. The Pegasus is being fueled as we speak. That should be done in around 50 centons .The rest of the fleet may take longer."

"Well it still much faster than I expected. Colonel walk with me a moment. Omega you have the Com."

For the 3rd time that day Omega found himself in charge of the bridge. He wonders what was going on.

"We have come to a decision Tigh, insane crazy beyond belief but we are taking a cylon base."

Tigh stumbled unable to believe what he was hearing.

"What? Ok who stole Adama?" He was not joking "We are actually going on the offensive?"

"Yes, my friend we are. The Cylons have a base near here it been all the warship we been running into lately."

"Ah… Adama they might have Base ships in port or destroyers-"

"I hope so. We could use the extra fire power. Noah's fleet has been and will be a blessing. But from here on out we can expect heavy Cylon attacks .There will be no more feline and rodent .I am sure you realize we have now become a greater threat with a larger fleet. So If we can destroy their production facilities and steal ships all the better. Besides I love the idea of using their facilities to build our craft."

"We are actually taking the base then?" Tigh questioned" Will we stay here?"

"Only until we taken everything they have that we can use. Then we will set solime charges." Adama explained" So, if we manage to pull this off you and Tolan along with a few others will have a problem."

"A problem?"

"What to call your new ships. If we can we are going to take cruisers for you and Tolon. Tolon will be assigned to Commander Cain and you to the Galactica. You both more than earned your own commands. "Adama explained

"Oh my Lord. What about Commander Croft. Surely he deserves a command as well?"

"You are right. If Possible he to will be rewarded. Along with a few others. Our crews need to feel we are advancing. New ships will allow for that. Start considering your personnel Colonel. We need to be ready to do this quickly. Cain is telling Tolan this as well. I sending for Croft he will be leading the raid on the ground. I really like to give him a military command. He improved greatly in the last 2 yearns."

"I agree. Adama as much as I appreciate what you want to do he does out rank me and he already a ships commander. "Tigh said.

Adama considered. "Tigh he improved but I want you in command of a ship. As much as I am grateful for our new alliance I like it not to be so one sided. I want our own fleet of warships. Cain agrees. We need the support. Croft will make an excellent commander. I have every faith in him but. He will be assigned to Cain's strike force. We are going on the offence now. When we meet or engage cylons they are going to be destroyed. I want you here with me a steadying influence to show the fleet they are safe. Now before you complain you and I will do our share of fighting. But it will not be ground to air."

"Then what?"

"We will be base ship killers."

"Oh ,Lord. "Tigh said

On board the prison barge Commander Croft received the message to report to the Galactica. He was curious to see what was going on. He nodded to his 2ic Lt. Philips.

He headed for the landing bay. He smiled at the fighter. It had just been delivered. From now on the prison barge would have Three vipers permanently assigned to it. One was for his use and the other for his 2ic and one was defense. Not He climbed into the new ship. He still could not believe he had been assigned a viper. He launched from the ship and looked back .Despite himself he smiled .He hated the barge no doubt about it but he was much still pleased that they were adding lasers to the ship. From now on they not have to depend so much on others to keep them safe. He debated asking to be transferred back to the Galactica or maybe even the Pegasus. He enjoyed Command but wanted to fight. He was a Warrior not a warden. He knew Adama had not meant an insult when he gave him the barge to Command .But he still felt like a prisoners there. Despite his pardon 2 yearns earlier .He wondered if Adama needed him for something. They might never be friends but in the last 2 yearns he grown to respect the man. He hoped they knew what they were doing.

Tolan could not believe his ears. His own command. He did not care if it was just a frigate. Even a Cylon one. He never though he see the day. He was not concerned. Commander Cain said they would steal some ships so he knew they would. He grinned. "Request permission to go with Commander Croft and his ground troops?"

"I take it you agree. If we can get a ship or two?"

"Yes Sir. But Sir?"

"Yes?"

"Can I pick it out?"

Cain grinned he sounded like a teenager choosing his first hover mobile. "We will see. The idea is to steal warships or build them. And take tankers and freighters. I will do my best to secure you a warship my friend. But it may end up being a freighter. I hope you can live with that?"

"Yes Sir, We can add a viper squad or two and use the armaments. It not is the best but it is a light frigate then."

Commander Cain was pleased his 2ic was already thinking of ways to upgrade the freighters. He has to suggest the idea to Adama. "Good idea Tolan."

Commander Roma's waved Atraties off. They had finished repairing the ship and her mate was at last heading for the Pegasus. He was like a child heading to the toy store. She was glad he found something to interest him. Lately he been a pain in the astrum. Worrying is she so much as sneezed.

Croft listened as Adama outlined his plan. It was crazy even more so then attacking that base on the ice planet. He smiled. It was going to be a challenge. He admitted to himself that it was appealing,

"If we secure the base and get the ships then what?"

"We will use the bases docks to upgrade arm and refit as many of the fleets ships as we can. With luck we will be able to scrape the oldest ships. We may even add to the Colonial arsenal."

"Adama who will command these new Warships, freighters and tankers?"

Adama smiled. It was an amused grin. "Tigh, Tolan and you. Commander Noah said we should take first choice. So as a reward for you hard work if possible we will give you each your own command. I know that despite your being in command you dislike the prison barge. So If all goes well we can move you to a better ship. That is if you want the transfer? And just so you understand. This mission is voluntary. The Commands yours if you go or not provided we secure enough ships. I need you to go but the decisions yours entirely."

"I will go. Besides If I don't Tigh and Tolan will pick the best ships. "He laughed and smiled.

Metoshopholies appeared in the Imperious Leaders chambers. He quickly reprogrammed the Leader.

Adama laughed at this. "Go then."