Disclaimers: See Chapter 1

Lost Tribes

Part 16

Within Moments the Imperious Leader was ordering all reserve centurions to the base ships. All fighters were loaded. In the last day they had been making repairs. He now once more had 6 fully functioning Base ships. He had to stripe down four cruisers and take most of the bases personnel but he was ready once more to hunt his human prey. Now with the new command to kill the fleet he left the base. They had lost the trail so they headed back to Kobol. He would retrace the Colonials steps. They not escape him this time Metosphlies smiled his pets would not fail him. He reprogrammed them to fight to the death.

"Spectre, You will command a base ship. Lucifer you will remain here on the base."

"By your command" Lucifer said. He fully expected to be deactivated." he did not argue even if his rival had stolen his ship."

"Leader we have a report that Baltar's shuttle was destroyed in battle."Spectre laid

"Lucifer?" Questioned the leader

"If Spectre says so Leader. Our scanners were down. I was to busy covering you to look for one puny human." He added he wondered why Spectre lied
He found himself almost hoping Baltar got away.

The Fleet was secure orbiting the planet. Tigh smiled soon every ship be varying a maximum payload of fuel ,food and water. He smiled they were finally going to kick some Cylon tail. While he knew why Adama had avoided a fight he always hated the idea. Publicly he never challenge his friend but he wanted to fight. He considered who to send on the first recon patrol. He decide to go with Apollo, Sheba, Starbuck and Boomer. Each Commander was sending four pilots. The combine forces would scout the area. Hopefully locating any Cylons .On board the Pegasus Tolan chose his team. Bojay, Tyler, Kilroy and Gregor. All pilots he had faith in. He was glad Bojay asked to return to the Pegasus. He like Cain was disappointed that Sheba had not yet requested duty on board.

Croft was Fling with the teams. He agreed to fly with Lt. Samuel as a gunner. It was a unique chance to try out the new scorpions. Samuel's gunner taken a slight concussion and be out for a few days, Thor, Dana and Seth rounded out the team.

Vipers and stingrays joined up along with the scorpions. In all over 40 ships launched or this patrol. They were mixing the patrols 1 viper 1, scorpion and 1 stingray maximizing the differences.

"Good hunting everyone." Apollo said as his team headed toward the planet.

"You to Captain." Called Bo Jay his team was scanning the out systems behind them. The Commanders were taking no chances.

Within centon Apollo patrol came within scanning range of the base. He was not happy with what he saw. four cruisers and several patrol ships. On the plus side there were no base ships. At least none that were completed.

"Captain, Let Croft and I go in. We can scan under stealth mode. Unless we are in atmosphere they will not pick us up…"Samuel said."Alright but be careful."

"I keep an eye out captain." Croft said.

They peeled off and disappeared.

I will never get used to that Apollo thought.

"So commanders how do you like our ship?"

"It is differentia bit unsettling but I like it." Croft said "Go over there I want to see if we can scan for personnel."

They flew by.

"What the. The base seems empty. Does another run."? "What wrong?"

"It is like they took everyone off base. Minimal personnel. Mostly drones building the ships."

Starbuck's patrol scanned the opposite side of the base. He too was coming up with low personnel numbers.

"I don't get this. This post should have more than a thousand centurions."

"LT. Starbuck is that not a good thing?" Asked LT. Dana

"It just makes me wonder where they all went. The productions seem right but this base looks striped down" He said "Lets meet up with Apollo I do not like this. It feels wrong"

LT Bommer was not happy. His patrol had dived into a gases field .They had found cylons.6 base ships and several other ships. They were all headed back toward Kobol. Once the ships were out of range he recalled his people ."We need to get back warn the Commanders it looks like the Cylons are regrouping."

Bo Jay's patrol ran into a convoy of Cylon fuel tankers .It was just too good to pass up. They attacked and carefully blew out the ships systems. Bo Jay chuckled ,boy was the Commander going to be surprised 3 tankers full of fuel .He smiled glad he still had it. He owed Commander Cain a drink for teaching him how to do that trick. His patrol quickly added tow lines.

"So Adama who are we going to get to guard the fleet?" Asked Colonel Tigh "We cannot leave them unguarded"

"Commander Noah wants to leave Commander Roma behind with several cruisers. We will also leave yellow squadron."

"So the rest of us will be attacking?"

"Commander Lupus is taking up rear guard. He not happy about the detail but will do so. While Noah has every confidence in Commander Roma her ship still need a few repairs. She did a wonderful job guarding the fleet. And Lupus is a fighter. The two of them will guard our fleet well. We are going to take that base and secure a place to refit." Adama said" You know Tigh for the first time I feel good about a mission. Not desperate but good. I think we may finally be getting a break."

Colonel Tigh had to agree. "I hope the patrols bring back some good news. It been a while since we had to organize so many pilots. I was wondering if we remember how. "He joked

"Yes, I sure we can recall. "Laughing out loud "Cain's more than ready to begin the raid. But the Galactica and the Kobal's Shield are playing decoy. I think this will be fun."

"Commander, Colonel we have a message coming in from Captain Bo jay."

"Put it on the screen Athena." Colonel Tigh said

"Commander, We have a gift for the fleet. We found these 3 tankers sir. We had to blow out their cabins and engines but they are full of Tylium."

"Good Job Captain. Haul them to the Pegasus she still needs fuel .Besides I am more than sure you learned that from Commander Cain. He deserves the reward."

"Thanks Commander Adama .Will do .Ok everyone lets haul them things in." Bo Jay ordered

"He will make a fine commander for Bronze Squadron. I am glad he got the chance." Colonel Tigh said

"Yes, he is a good officer. He will do well with Commander Cain. "Adama agreed. "So are the squadrons all transferred?"

"Yes Sir. Silver Spar and Bronze are already aboard the Pegasus and the White Stars are ready to go as soon as the new vipers are ready. Half the cadets are on board the Pegasus now. Lt. Sheba Will head the new Golden Spike Squadron as soon as they are cleared. Replacing the Silver Spar. Yellow been redistributed to the fleet. Commander I like to train at least 2 more squadrons."

"Good. Then we will both have 3 squadrons that will be a nice punch. Maybe, I have to talk to Cain about that .I agree it is a good idea but we will need to wait. I want the White Stars and Golden spikes ready first. Both Battle Stars need a fully staffed reserve squadron."

"Yes Sir,"

"Athena get me Commander Cain."

"Yes Father."

"Cain here."

"Cain it seems your captain brought you a gift."

"I see it .Thank you Adama. That should fill us full and a lot faster then with the shuttles."

"Good we should be ready to go as soon as we get the news from the patrols. Cain watch out for the cadets."

"Will do. I agree we need reserves. I hope we can get enough materials for more vipers."

"Me to. I also like to try a few Jaguars and scorpions along with Stingrays. They fit on some of the civilian ships."

"Good idea. The Jaguars are smaller but add a nice surprise." Cain agreed "But we need better shields or armor."

Apollo and Starbuck entered the lift together. Both seemed deep in thought.

"Hey hold up" Called Boomer

"How did the patrol go?" Asked Starbuck

"Oh, just great saw the cylons heading back to Kobol at least 6 base ships fully armed and ready to go."

"Well that explains it." Apollo said" I scanned a near empty base. All the centurions were gone.

"So did us." Agreed Starbuck ."I thought it was a trick. But maybe..."

"Maybe we hit them so hard they had to stripe down the base." Boomer suggested

"Lord that be nice." Agreed Starbuck

"Don't get your hopes up. It maybe, but I want to hear from the others first. "Apollo said

"I guess but it be wonderful if it was true." Starbuck said "Make life a bit more fun."

"Yes that make taking the base a little easier. Did you see any support ships Bommer?"

"Yes, we saw 2 destroyers and several tankers. "Bommer Added.

"Colonel, I think it is time we promoted Starbuck and Boomer. They more then earned there Captains bars. I want Bommer to head Red squadron and Starbuck the Blue."

"What about Apollo?"

"He will need to be promoted as well. He will be need as more then a strike leader. So far he had to head a squadron and do those duties as well .Now I need him learning more of the Command structure. He will still be flying but less often. I want to promote Omega to be my 2IC."

"Good choice. But I will need staff as well. "Colonel Tigh said.

"I know it going to strain us some to staff these ships but I think it a good strain. Athena going to be promoted as well. She earned her Captains bars. I know she rather be flying but she been a wonderful bridge officer."

Apollo Boomer and Starbuck entered the Galactica's bridge. They saw the Commander and headed over.

"Father we may have some really good news." Apollo said

"Well that be a nice change. "Tigh quipped .His smile was infectious

"Yes Colonel. The main Cylon force was headed back toward Kobol. "Boomer explained

"Then the Cylon base?"

"Is basically unguarded Father."

"Good. Let's send the word. Captain Bo Jay ran into a cylon tanker convoy and acquired 3 tankers of fuel."

"Good old Bo Jay." Starbuck laughed.

"Yes Captain Bo Jay did well. LT. Col Apollo you Captain Starbuck and Captain Boomer report to the briefing room along with the squadrons We have to brief everyone on our plans."

"Sure...Did you say Captains? "Completely missing the Lt. Colonel

"Yes, Effective immediately you are promoted to Lt. Col. Major Athena will be my auxiliary officer ,Colonel Omega 2IC and Captain for Boomer and Starbuck."

"Ah Sir? Is that a good idea? "Starbuck asked

"Not likely but it is necessary. Boomer you are in Command of Red Squadron. Starbuck you now have Blue. Apollo it time you start learning more of the command structure. I hope there will be no arguments?"

"Ah Commander Athena's a Major?"

"Yes ,so you best behave Starbuck."Adama laughed
--

"So Sheba why are you staying? I am sure you are needed on board the Pegasus? "Asked Captain Greenbean

"No, I think I need to be here for now. No enjoy the Pegasus and keep an eye out for Bo Jay."

Will do .It seems odd though to be in command .I never though it happen."

"Yeh, Me either joked Jolly his new 2IC "And Silver Spar who have thought.?"

"Well Bronze is a bit less experienced so they need a strong Co. No offence. But Bo Jay more experienced in that area so it makes sense he get them. Besides I get my own squadron soon. Golden Spike. It will be fun starting a whole new squadron."

"Well at least we feel like a fleet once more. I wonder if we will be mixing crews? "Lt. Jolly asked

"I think in time we will .Sheba added.

The room was quiet as they heard the list of promotions.

"Everyone has worked very hard and you all deserve a pat on the back. These promotions are to recognize all your hard work. The list will be posted As of this moment with the exception of those we have read off every member of the Galactica's crew is hereby raised one grade. "Colonel Tigh announced

"Colonel I believe you have forgotten one." Adama said with a smile.

"Sir?" Colonel Tigh said

"Colonel Tigh of the Galactica is here by promoted to Lt. Commander."

The briefing room broke out in to applause.

"Sir it is not necessary."

"It is only temporary my friend once we get your ship you will be promoted to full Commander. "Adama said in a voice only Tigh could hear.

"Now on to business. As you all know we now have a fleet once more. The Command structure has been explained to you all. We have decided to take out the Cylon base at planet 5893.We will in fact attempt to capture that base whole." Adama waited allowing his words to sink in.

"Take the base? Why Commander?" Asked Sheba the idea seemed to wild and crazy

"We need it whole. It is a ship yard. Making base ships repairing them. With those facilities we can upgrade the fleet maybe gain new warships. "Lt. Commander Tigh explained.

"We are stealing Cylon ships? "Captain Starbuck said he suddenly realized why there were so many promotions. The Galactica' s crews were going to move out to the new ships. "What kind?"

"Any we can." Adama said "As you may have guessed some of you will be asked to move to our new war fleet. "It felt good to say that "We hope to take at least 2 to 4 ships and if time permits build more. We will defiantly be trying to build Vipers, Jaguars, Scorpions and Sting rays."

"So we are going to use Cylon materials and their base?" Captain Boomer asked.

"Yes. "Lt .Commander Tigh said.

"So we are colonizing that planet then? "Asked Sgt Franks

"No. We will only use it temporarily. To restock and rest. Then we will blow it and move on." Tigh explained.

On board the Kobol Shield Noah issued the order for his Fire Stars. The Fleet would be well protected by Roma and Lupus .He chuckled .Both his Commanders had wanted to be in on the strike .But he knew he needed them here to keep the civilians safe .Roma had accused him of protecting her because she was with child. Well he was ... not that he ever admit to that. He had laughed and asked Lupus if he had the same complaint. The tact had worked. He merely explained that they were rotating shifts. Besides Roma's ship still had a few repairs to complete. Lupus was more used to fighting in reduced numbers. He looked over his personnel list .He was deciding who to offer a chance at transfer. Adama and Cain had stated they needed personnel to fill their new ships. He liked the idea of integrating their crews somewhat. New ships would be ideal because none had yet carved out a territory.

Cain was once more pleased. His crew was more than ready to take on the tin heads. They had also been pleased with the various promotions. Less than pleased at getting a new group of cadets. But they were ready and wanting to engage the cylons.

Eve was pleased her ship was ready. All that remained was to begin the attack. Her ship along with the Galactica and Kobal's Shield would be attacking first. To draw away the base ships. If any were there. Then Cain's task force would blow the bejeeis out of the base. Then if all went well they be building new ships. The Galactica was the bait and the Fire Stars the trap. It was going to be fun. So far they had 10 new Vipers on board. Along with the pilots .Their new stingers were going to give the cylons a nasty sting. She had sent 5 scorpions and 5 stingrays to the Galactica. They were going to do their best to confuse the tin heads.

Lucifer was annoyed. He knew he was not supposed to feel. But he was annoyed. He was once again alone. He looked around the base. Ok, There were other cylons but they were all so inferior. There were not even 20 centurions. Those that remained were outdated and slow. The drones were too basic to converse with. He sighed. A gesture learned from Baltar. At least he not been deactivated. He wondered absently where the colonial fleet was and what they were up to. Whatever it was he hoped it did not include him.

Adama went onto Uni Com ."People of the Fleet. The Galactica and Pegasus will be leaving for a time. You will be protected by 2 Fire Stars and our own Yellow Squadron. We must secure supplies. Obey the Fire Star Commanders they will keep you all safe." Adama said

The Council of 12 was angry they knew nothing of what was about to

happen . Siress Tinia called Adama "What in Sagan's Name are you doing?"

"What we must I will explain it all latter. Do not worry Siress You will be perfectly safe.2 fire stars equal a battle star you know."

"That is hardly the point. Adama how can you do this?"

"Because we must. We will return soon. We will succeed and then we will celebrate properly. Have faith and please keep the council in line. If they aggravate anyone while we are gone I told them to toss them in the nearest brig."

Adama smiled as He saw the 3 Fire star pull up beside the Galactica. They were going to begin the attack. They had been disappointed to see 2 base ships docked. But their scans indicated they were both low on fuel and riders.

"Ok lets lure them away." He said "The Galactica moved in to attack.

"Commander Adama we will move into position. Feel free to bring along playmates. "Lt. Commander. Eve Joked

"We will be doing just that Raina .Be ready to through the cylons that surprise party. Cain is your strike force ready when we pull the Base ships away?" Adama questioned

"We were born ready old friend. Good luck." He laughed

"May the Lord be with you all "Adama said

"Thanks Adama. At least I not am committing mutiny this time. "Cain laughed

"Mutiny?" Asked Noah

"Long story. But as always you have my blessings."

"Well I'm not sure if I bound for heaven or Hades but your blessing keep us kicking."

"Then I will add mine to his. "Noah said "May The Lords of our Father bless and keep us all safe."

The Pegasus pulled back awaiting it turn. The Galactica move in to the Cylons sensor range .As expected the cylons disembarked and took up the chase.
The Galactica lead them away from the base to a small system where The Lighting ,Kobal's Shield were waiting. The Cylons had launched 3 phanxs of raiders but quickly found themselves out gunned. The Combined Fire power of the Galactica squadron and the Fire Stars packed quite a punch. They prepared to retreat only to find the way blocked as a 3rd fresh Fire Star crew began its attack.

"I could get used to this" called Starbuck

"Me to "agreed Boomer We actually have them out gunned. And we got to ambush them for once."

"On your tail. "Sheba shouted

"I got him "Rorke called The slide behind the raider and easily dispatched him. "Make a run to that moon .We have The Vengeance and Destiny there. Those cruisers gun will cut these tin heads down to size.

"Hey, I forgot about them." Apollo laughed.

"Hey Apollo we may have a new problem?"

"What that Starbuck?"

"Not enough Cylons for everyone to shot. He hit his turbos and shot a raider that was attempting to lock onto Thor

"Thanks Starbuck. I owe you a drink."

"Sure I'll collect to."

"Hey usual bet "Cried Hunter

"I'm in." Athena chimed

"Me to" Sheba said

"Bet what bet? ' Questioned Dana

"The one with the most kills get a bottle of vintage ambrosia from the rest. "Athena added

"Well then. If anyone can join? "Rorke asked

"Yep."

"Well then I am in." He shot his 5th raider in as many centons.

"Me too." Came cries from all the Fire Stars pilots.

"You know Tigh they seem to be having fun out there."

"No .No way Adama "Tigh protested fully aware of what his friend was thinking. "You have the bridge. "He turned and headed for the bay.

"Frak." Tigh began to chase after him

"Colonel I mean commander the base ships are attempting to pull behind the moon. "Omega said

"Lt. Colonel you have the bridge. he took off after his friend. Shaking his head .there had to have been something in the Water .Adama had not been this reckless in yearns. Well if he thought he fly without him on his wing he was in for a surprise.

On board the Lighting Eve grinned. She caught Tigh's exasperation. Well if Adama and Tigh were going to fly she was to. She chuckled one good thing about a Fire star it took less time to reach the landing bays.

Noah was already in space he flew into battle and had already shot down 4 cylons when his fellow Commanders joined him.

"What took you 3 so long?"

Adama laughrd as he took out a raider intent on eliminating his new friend.
"Well we did think you could handle it on your own."

Eve roared." He got you Noah. Look out there a Pinwheel."

"I got them. "Tigh said "Just like old times hey Adama.

Lucifer was uneasy Why had the Galactica suddenly decided to show herself. And it was the Galactica. A game of Feline and rodent he have expected from Commander Cain but Adama always preferred not to battle. Lucifer sent the base ships out with over 1/2 the remaining fighters. He kept a small cruiser fully fuel and supplied. He had a bad feeling he need an escape route. One thing he learned from Baltar always a have a way out.

"Report Centurion "Lucifer ordered.

"The base ships have engaged the Galactica."

"Good and how are they doing?"

"They were ambushed."

TBC..