October 30, 2008

Disclaimer: See part 1

Lost Tribes

Part 32

Cain forced himself to function. Sheba was alive he had to go after the cylons. " Adama we have to plan and regroup."

Adama looked up. He was so very tired. Yet he knew for once Cain was right. "Noah find out the fleets strengthen our loses. Cain pull us into a defensive ring. I think we should be ready to go in a few centars. Just on case. "

Iblis watched as Cylon after Cylon rolled out. His new warriors were bigger stronger faster and he smiled smarter. The Organics took command positions and the robotic cylons fell into step much to Lucifer's dismay.

Starbuck kissed Cassiopeia and fell o his knees grateful for Apollo's life once more. He silently vowed to be a good man from this day forward. Boomer and the rest of the squadrons began to regroup and do a head count. Thor was amazed his family survived in tacked. Wounded but alive. He clapped Reese on the back." Thanks Reese I know you saved me out there,"

" Hey major what are friends for?" The man said " Buy you a drink?"

" No the first rounds on me. For all the room." Thor said "A toast to Humanity."

" Here ,here " Came the shout.

" For once you got it right big brother!!" Sammy shouted.

Seth roared and gulped his ale down.

Reese smiled unable to believe he once tried so hard to kill Thor. He grinned well he was glad he failed. Thor was a good man and Reese had a feeling he be a good influence on himself as well. Dana sat down on Thor's lap and the crews of both ships were laughing in amusement.. She was very worried and made no secret of the fact that she was making sure he was in one piece. Thor groaned but let her have her way.
"Dana keep it up and baby you will have to make an honest man out of me."

" Is that a formal proposal?" She asked

" Ah... Yes. Yes it is. Will you seal with me Dana. I love you need you." Thor said amazed that it suddenly was so clear to him.

" I will.. Thor let's find father."

He grinned picked her up tossed her over his shoulder shrieking." See you all latter. I have to go make it official."

The warriors burst out in cheers and laughter just what was needed after the long crazy day.
Boomer shook his head. Thor was as crazy as Starbuck.

Aries went to Athena. He gathered her close. She was very tired and strained. He kissed her forehead and let her lean on him." It's alright baby. We will make it. You are lucky you know having 2 great men to call father."

Athena smiled and leaned on him. "Yes I am aren't I? To think... I have a chance at 2 battle stars."

Adama heard the comment and began to laugh. " I think Xenia be annoyed at that one."

" I just kidding father the only battle star I want to command is the Galactica. But Apollo has to get better so I can beat him fair and square for it."

" Athena..." Adama said he was fighting to contain his amused laughter.

Apollo began to come to. " No sis. The Galactica is mine." He looked at her. " I love you Athena but I won't give up this ship. Father I sorry to have scared you all. " Apollo was smiling.

" Buddy if you ever do that again!!!!" I swear I will shoot you." Starbuck shouted. 'That's twice!!"
--------------------

Sheba stumbled in." I agree with Starbuck. Don't ever scare me again like that." Sheba said

Cain was listening as Noah gave him the raw data. The living legends mind did calculations faster than any computron could. " Not good enough. We need the Rycon at full power in less than a secton. The fire stars to. Noah I think we need a meeting of the engineers. See what we can swap out here and there. We have to be up and ready. I have a feeling this was only the beginning salvo. We hurt them and bad but my gut tell me they will be back far sooner then we wish it. Adama Permission to send out patrols. I like Poseidon and Zeus to sweep the rear set up a defensive perimeter."

Adama's brow rose not quite believing it was Cain standing in front of him.

"I can learn old friend. I maybe no mystic... I am bowing to yours and Noah's expertise now. I defend against the machines but Ibis is yours. I think I can finally follow... Maybe I just had to see that there more them just cylons at play here." Cain said

Commander Joshua landed upon the Rycon. He raced to the bridge. Xenia been injured in the fight. His heart was racing. She should be in the life center. Instead he found her barking out orders.

"Jakes move it. We got fires in section 3 to 16 deck 4. I want fire suppression teams on it. Seal the sections above and below as a precaution. Evacuated the effected sections" She held her side that was bleeding profusely. However like her father the legendary Commander Kronous she not abandon her beloved ship. Hades they just got the Rycon in space once more.

Jashua signaled 2 medics and a doctor. He force her if needs be. " Seems to me you need repairing as well Commander?"
Xenia's head spun around' I fit , Jashua I thought you were working on Kobol 's Sword? Did you not have some damage?"

" My ship in good hands. I heard a crazy colonial refused to go to the life center. So As the said crazy's first mate I Hera to escort her. Come along peaceably Xenia or I will have you removed from Command. Adama ordered all injured to be treated before they return to duty."

Xenia opened her mouth to protest but decided agreeing be faster and more efficient. Besides she wanted to check on the wounded anyway." How is Athena? She well unscathed?" It felt odd to suddenly have an older sister. However she was looking forward to getting to know her better. She smiled at least she not get stuck dealing with the council of the 12. For that gift alone she loved her sister. She was not upset really. Only a little hurt. For it would have been nice to have a sister growing up. Someone to look up to. However she understood both her Father's and Ilya's reasons. They have made life Hades for everyone had the press learned the truth. They never accepted the simple truth. That to scared lonely desolate people reached out and loved each other for a single cycle. No it was better for all concerned. That did not mean she not seek to know her sister now. Jashua smiled grateful she was able to give a little. He really did not want to fight over this.

Zeus read the reports he spoke to Tyson and Poseidon. That they survived such and on slaughter were a miracle and while they had lost they were not overwhelming." Tyson I need a list of all munitions. Poseidon see what we can scavenge and salvage. Not just our ships but the cylons as well. Adama said the Hades I and d II will process raw materials. We will need that along with our own fabricating ships. We need to replace the lost fighters from all our ships." He sighed though be a lot easier then replacing their lost pilots for once.

10 days ahead...

Go to p 25

Maya and Dara tucked their children into bed.

"Lord Maya I so tired. I feel like I could sleep a secton." Dara said

"I know what you mean... Well At least the battles finally over. You are not going on patrol again are you?" Maya asked.

"Yes afraid so. Thor took the last two. I am feeling better now. He needs time with his lady to. Can you believe it he finally asked her to seal."

"Yes its past time I would say. Lord knows they been an item for yearns. Seems some men are slow. He too much likes his father at times." Maya joked.

"Who's like me?" Noah asked as he came in. "I thought you ladies worshiped the ground I walk on and here my first wife tearing my character apart." he said thought he was clearly not in the least bit concerned.

The women who were his wives grinned their amusement clear and they were more then happy to deflate his ego.

"Well husband it did take you almost a year to realize you loved Dara." Maya said "Hades I practically had to seal you two myself by blaster. That my dear does not show a great deal of intelligence."

They all laughed the tension of the past days dissipating as family life slowly returned to normal.

Eve found Zee sleeping besides a now healed Sheba .She sighed her son was far to gifted. She carried him to his room and tucked him in. He was just going to have to learn to be a little boy… well sometimes. Adama joined her and took her into his arms. He held her as they watched their son sleep." We been blessed Eve, I so glad I found you and Zee. I needed you to remind me living worth something." She melted into his kiss.

Sire Uri was racing around. If he still had hair he is pulling it out by now. Blasted tin heads they made a mess of the fleet. He contacted the foundry ship the fabrication ships and Hades I and II.
" Look I know it's going to require triple shifts but we need those parts. " he listened" Overtime authorized by me. Blat It if I have to I will pay the craftsmen myself just get me the bloody parts. Also I need those munitions he said as he flipped to a second com line. A 3rd went off. It was absolute chaos and he loved every micron of it. Except for the loses that was.

Dara kissed Noah and headed out for her patrol. She was only doing a short circuit of the fleet as they divided it up. Dane was back on his ship and wanted a sweep of the outer area. Just to be certain they not missed any cylons. Dara found she liked Cain elder brother for he was calm and clear thinking. He listened to Jr. Officers and had no problems adjusting his plans. Dane was launching a patrol cover After Dara' s returned home. She was glad Commander Cain had assigned him to their unit. He fit in well with their fleet. She launched and headed past both Tigh and Tolan' s ships. They were sweeping though scanning for any mines the cylons might have dropped.

Athena and Aries headed home .She was very glad Apollo made it. She leaned on her mate and fell asleep in his arms on the shuttle. Aries smiled as he carefully carried her off. He waved his people away letting them know it was only exhaustion and not an injury to his beloved. He could still hardly believe he won a woman as rare and special as Athena to be his bride.

Cain shouted orders and watched his people scramble to refit his damaged Battle star. He listened to the reports then shortened the time demanding his ship be repaired faster. The chief engineer merely nodded. Long ago he learned to slightly exaggerate the necessary time so when Cain demanded it faster they not have to listen o his ranting to long. He left to carry out his orders as Diana headed in. " I hope you are ready to face a wild boar in there he warned Diana."

She just chuckled and headed in. She was caring a plate of food and a glass of grog. Cain eat if she had to tie him down. That thought made her grin. Maybe she try it anyway. Just to get him to rest some.
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Dane felt alive and actually part of the fleet once more. Slowly but surely he was regaining his confidence as a warrior and commander. He was now feeling at home on his ship. The officers he had were rapidly growing to love him as well as respect him. His dedication and hard work were an inspiration to the men and women under his command. He was far humbler then Cain but he had a steady self assurance that made his warrior feel they do well.

-------------------
Tigh sighed. His ship had been hit badly. However they survived. He never thought he is glad to see Sire Uri but he was. A came aboard with a small army of repair techs." Tigh we have you back to battle ready in a few sentars." he said.

"Thanks. I thought we bought the farm. However those extra turrets you added saves our asturms. Sire Uri thank you." Tigh held out a hand finally willing to offer true friendship to his long time adversary.

"Tigh, I glad. It helped. I had an idea for a few new changes. Walk with me and I explain. I never have considered it before but since you took so much damage why not rebuild the way we want." Sire Uri explained his thoughts as they headed for Tigh' s office.

Sire Uri I like the idea. You are right before it would not have made sense .I have thought it would take to much time as we had completed ships but this could work. Go ahead with it. I inform Adama and the council." Tigh said He looked at the new schematics. His cruiser had just become a small carrier. It would hold a full squadron of vipers and a mixed one of scorpions and jaguars when completed. Uri's idea for an additional landing bay was brilliant.

I am glad you liked it. Let's go see what we can do." Uri said

Adama went to his office. He sat down behind his desk for a micron just gathering his thoughts. He leaned forward and flipped on his personal logs.

"It appears that for the Micron at least we have defeated our cylon enemies and perhaps even count Iblis. However I remain cautiously optimistic. The addition of the Azguard and Spartan fleets along with the Pegasus has given us a fighting chance at long last. I feel we may indeed one day now find Earth."

He paused and considered his next words carefully.

"However I have a deep gut instinct that we have not yet seen the last Of the Dark Prince and his minions. Today tomorrow a millennium he will return. I can feel it."

Zac got the message and smiled. He could not believe it. Commander Dane wanted him to come over and help lead the squadron of vipers he had. Zac flexed his fingers. They were slowly regaining their flexibility and he could hold a joystick. He knew he was being offered hi best shot at becoming a pilot again. Adama seemed more then content to keep him on the bridge. At first Zac to had been ready to switch his career tract. Yet during the battle he been helping pull a warrior out of a burning cockpit. The fuel had shredded his fingers and lessened the damaged skin. Oddly enough the burn had made it possible for him to regain mobility in his hand. It hurt like crazy but it was there. He went home to his quarters knowing he have to have a long serious talk with his wife.

The scavenger ships zipped about gathering dead raider with little care or concern. However they were more careful and respectful to the human ships they found. When ever possible id were taken so family could be notified. If by rare chance there was a body... Well it be burried properly by the book. Even the hardened scavengers would show the fleets defenders that much respect. However overall the human loses were not that bad. More wounded and damaged vehicles then death. Tigh, Tolon, Omega and Dane totaled colonial loses. Each mans heart was heavy but they knew they have enough to fight another day.

Adama's Logs: I left Eve sleeping with Zee. That child is an amazing being. A scamp but then with his biological father being our beloved Starbuck that surprises me not at all. He shows remarkable talent. I know from what Eve has said his ...help or unexpected assistance saves the Galactica Astrum and several other ships. I wonder ... Wonder what he is for now that things have calmed down finally had time to give him a full medical exam. Zee is unlike any other human child we encountered.

Adama flipped off his log concerned.

Eve got the sleepy baby Zee dressed and headed for the Galactica's life center. She had to agree with her mate that checking out the baby was essential. Zee curled up onto her shoulder and fell back asleep. She had a hard time believing this little boy had reprogrammed several of the fleets systems. It had all been a game to him. He was clearly unaware that what he did saved lives and destroyed cylons. Eve entered the life center and saw Cassiopeia. The med tech came over smiling and escorted her to a room.

" He is so sweet. But I bet him causing you a few worries?"

" Yes Cassiopeia he is. I think from what I know he very much like you're ... Starbuck. He a little charmer and even the Chief could not be angry with him. I mean you know how Shadrak is about his engines and systems. Yet he merely raised a brow when he found out it was Zee that reprogrammed the machines. I never met a child with so much intelligence. It almost frightening at times. Yet he sees it all as a game. Adama and I just want to be sure he healthy. I don't know maybe to reassure ourselves. I suppose I worry so much. This little man a dream come true for me." Eve said

Cassie smiled." I know maybe you and the Commander feel we.. Starbuck and I should have taken the boy. But I don't think we have had the capacity to raise him properly. It's not that Starbuck doesn't care. He does deeply. I love the boy too. But We had so many issues in our relationship. We just finally worked it out to where we are totally together at peace. In love. Maybe we are selfish..."

Eve caught Cassiopeia' s arm." Cassiopeia you are not selfish. Adama been a father before and even he overwhelmed. Starbuck did not choose to bring this darling boy into the world. He may have allowed it. By letting the beings of light use him but he did not choose to be a father. He certainly should not have to stress or sacrifice his relationship to you either. Let's face it Starbuck has many fine qualities. But I don't think he was ready for instant fatherhood. He is a good man who will in time find a relationship with his son. However for now especially given his job. The time he away it be better for Zee to be with us. I know its selfish of us but we do want this little one. He my son now Adama's to. We love him. Maybe that was the plan all along? Don't feel guilty for not being ready to be parents yet. It's hard to do even when it's planned. Enjoy Starbuck as your husband first then have your own family. You 2 will always be welcome to be with Zee. Lord Knows we will likely draft you to baby-sit sometimes. But get over your guilt it is misplaced." Eve said
Eve Laid the baby down on a bed. The child caught a blanket and curled up. Cassie smiled he was a lot like his father. He rolled exactly the same way as Starbuck and stole the blankets to.

Diana dragged Cain from the bridge. The only solace the Commander of legend had was that Tolan his ever faithful Xo was not there now instead commanding his own vessel. That would have been more then he could have stood. As it was he saw several Jr. Officers fighting lol. At least they had the grace to blush and hide it. Cain glared and allowed his love to take him to his quarters. He silently vowed to ensure the olden vows were used when they sealed. ( LOVE HONOR AND OBEY) it was the only chance he had to be master of his fate and marriage. He grinned as Diana pushed him inside and down on the couch.

"Cain you need to rest." She said as she began to help him undress. His mind stopped worrying about winning ands drifted to a more pleasant vain of thought. Maybe the fleet could survive without him for a cectar or two... Or maybe more. His wicked grin got him a playful slap and they began to kiss and wrestle. Diana determined he should undress to rest and Cain intent on less restful pursuits.

Diana sighed. They both won that battle. She felt good all over. Cain was a very wonderful lover. She felt alive and well loved. She looked down and smiled he was sleeping like a baby. She sighed and curled up resting her head on his chest. Listening to the steady sure beat of his heart.

Apollo lay next to Sheba. He held her close and they slept. He comes so close to losing her forever. "Baby doesn't ever risk you again. I love you I need you. I could not live if something happened to you. I Lost Serina and it almost destroyed me. If I lose you ... I won't make it. "Sheba held his and rolled over looking down into his green eyes. She saw the fear his tears his worry. "Baby Me not Seriena. I know you loved her very much. But baby me not going to die .You my darling warrior is stuck with me. I am too stubborn to die."

Apollo kissed her with all his passion. Letting her know he loved her forever." If you die I will follow you. In this life or the nest we will be together. I won't be alone again."

Sheba suddenly shivered.

Ibis aughed with joyl. So Apollo still had a weakness he could exploit. He vanished and the room was warm once more. Still Sheba shook. Holding on covering protecting Apollo with her own life. Never again would Iblis harm him by using her.
--------------------

Maya and Noah looked in on the babies. All of them were sleeping soundly. Maya wrapped her arms around her mate. "Noah I almost lost you. Baby I can not ...I need you. I can share you but to lose you..."

"Maya..." he said hopelessly. He kissed her "I here baby. We are all safe all of us you me. RoAnn, Thor and Samuel and Seth. And the -------" She cut him off.

"I know me just afraid." Maya said there been a nightmare. Normally it was Dara who had the visions. Yet Maya was afraid. he has to speak to her sister about the vision.

Apollo walked to his quarters. He entered silently and went to a sleeping Sheba's side. He quietly undressed and slipped into bed. She curled into his arms. He shook with fear. Fear on how close it had come." I love you Sheba. I won't let you go." he whispered.

"Love you Apollo always and forever." Sheba replied in her sleep. Apollo's smiled as he to drifted off.

Aries and Athena gathered the reports. Athena was still hypercharge with energy. She waved the others away as her hand rapidly went over the control panels. She was determined to get the fleet back together and safe. She let the others rest. For some strange reason she was not tired at all. Aries watched slightly concerned.

Xenia to was hypercharge She worked to coordinate with Athena. The Rycon was moving in to cover the right flank of the combined fleets. Joshua was doing a sweep of the sector just to be certain they gotten all the cylons booby traps before moving their fleet forward.

Ibis watched as the fleet began to form one more sector and they are ready to go out after the humans once more. He looked to the heavens and laughed as he planned.

The Poseidon moved in a clear sweep. They found no real resistance anymore. The remaining cylons had been secured.

Zac went home he was beat. He entered his quarters as his wife raced to him hugging him close. "I was so afraid "Taila said

"We made it baby. We did. Now we rebuild. But tonight for us our family." Zac said " We see father tomorrow. He wants us all over for dinner."

Taila shook her head with amusement " Good who is cooking? Eve or Athena?"

"Eve... don't laugh she really is good. Not as good as my mother but not bad either. I think father will fill out again." Zac said

"That is good he lost a lot of weight over the yearns worrying for the fleet." Taila said "Its why I never told him about me and you. I could not bear adding to his burdens." She buried her head against him. Zac stroked her hair. " Well we are together now. That is all that matters. I understand baby and really don't mind. You did the best you could when I was not here for you. I so sorry honey." He kissed her.

"Shush... Don't be . You are here now its enough." She said " More then a dream come true. Zac you are the answer to my prayers."

Zac was humbled and knew he do anything to keep her and his daughter safe. He held her close.

Eve began to make a list of things she need for the supper. She was looking forward to being a wife and mother not the commander.

Dara returned to Kobol 's Shield and entered her Noah and Maya's quarters. She quickly went to check on the babies. All were sleeping peacefully. She smiled and went to find her husband and sister. She found Maya staring out at the stars clearly disturbed.

"What is wrong?"

"I had a strange nightmare. I am so afraid Dana." Maya said " I saw the family cut down by lizard creatures."

Dana moved to her side" Tell me about your dream. Maybe I can help. Does Noah know?'

"No... he asleep. Dara he was so tired. I let him sleep. The children are all peaceful. But every time I close my eyes..."
--------------------

Sire Uri smiled as he saw the new model for the ship he wanted to create. He motioned Tigh over. " Well what do you think Commander?"

"Lords will the Cylons will hate it." Tigh said his pleasure clearly showihng. It was a killing machine. Half Cylon half human.

"Then we shall rebuild your ship. The Hades II has already begun to fabricate what we need. Our Spartan allies have also started their specialties. Commander Tigh we could never do half as well without them. " Uri said

" I know. It's enough to give a man faith. I have never been a strong believer but now... Now I do believe in a higher power. I always had faith in Adama. That that was never in doubt. However I often wondered how he could be so strong so certain. Even before the destruction." Tigh said
Uri smiled they were definitely becoming friends for Tigh to be so open and honest. "Commander Believe it or not. It was his faith his will that I so envied. Of I told myself it was about power. Control. In honesty, I wanted what he had. Peace. Not the peace we have from war but that inner peace. The understanding that the Gods placed us here for a reason. They we insignificant as we are mattered. "Uri handed Tigh ale." I knew Noah his father and Aries. In fact, I served with and under them. I saw that same thing in each of those men. It was ... was like walking with Lords of Old. Adama has it to. That presence. Power personified. He, Commander Noah and Perhaps Commander Cain. When one uncertain of ones self. That quality is vital. I thought that if I became the most powerful man in the colonies then I capture that essence. Yet it is the man not the position. You could stripe Adama and Noah to rags tosses them into a pit of rats and they still are kings." Uri said

"Yes. I know what you mean. Well here is to the King that saved us all." Tigh said raising his mug.

"Here, here." Uri agreed.

The Hades II was shocked at the amount of materials they were getting. However, they were being paid extra and the fleet would need new vipers. For once at least they had an abundance." Move it you bulge rats." Jakel called " We a quota to fill before the cycle is over."

Noah moved quickly to the bridge of his ship. He wanted to make certain all was well. Maya and Dara had both suffered nightmares." Get me the Galactica, Rycon and the Pegasus . I need to see all the council seal holders at once."

Adama received his brothers message and headed for the Kobol's Shield something was definitely wrong. Athena to was enrooted. She awoken shaken and insisted Aries fly over with her. " Aries we something very wrong I sense it. But I don't know how to control what I am seeing. I hope Xenia and Jashua are there."

Soon all the fleet commanders were once more present. Maya and Dara were at Noah's side. Neither of his wives looked well at all.

Iblis smiled his attacks on their dreams was working. They were afraid and disorientated. Soon no one in the fleet would be able to sleep or rest. Exhausted people made mistakes and they could be capitalized on.

Apollo escorted a tired and worn Sheba to the council chambers. It was clear to them both that there was a major problem. Boomer walked with Tigh. His adopted father looked as if he had not slept in a sectar.

"Commander you look ill?"

"I fine Boomer just having these blasted nightmares." His words seemed to make everyone look up.

Adama, Noah, Cain looked at each other. But it was Sheba who answered the thought
" IBLIS IBLIS is dream walking. Creating Nightmares." She buried her head in Apollo's shoulder frightened

Micah looked around the room" He should not be able to do this. He has no dominion over any of us!"

" No but we fear him. Like he is the boogey man. That how he is getting in." Athena said. " Sheba you are scared and shaking so am I. It's that fear. That darkness he honing in on."

" Athena is right. He is slipping in because we are afraid. Afraid to admit we all have a part of us that craves the dark. We flee to the light hoping to forget our own darker sides. However it is that nature that allows us to take risks to fight. Athena How can we use it without being consumed." Sheba asked

Athena sat down. She was shaken by her dreams. Sheba poised a good question. She looked at Commander Cain. If ever there was a man driven by the need to fight he was it. "Commander Cain. I have a question sir?"

Cain was startled. He had no idea how to deal with the mystical. He was a gung ho seat of the pant knock them dead warrior. How could he help?

"What is your question? I am no good at the philosophical eldercare."

" I know sir. That's why I am asking you." Athena explained.

Cain and Sheba both stiffened." Sir it is that you react. You plunge through your fears. The dark odds they seem to entice you. Why? Yet you are wise enough to pick only winning battles. Even if the rest of us do you use the darkness?"

Cain smiled suddenly understanding." I let it be a part of me. I control it bend it. make it work for me. Any weakness may be turned to strength. Fear. Can be used to move us forward. Fight or flight. When I really scared, I fight. Fleeing only when I cannot fight well enough to win."

Noah looked on. Suddenly realizing something else." Athena We all use it. We use it to fight because sometimes fleeing not enough. One can only be beaten so long before one reacts and strikes back.

"Of course. We must fight in our dreams as we would when we are awake. If we do not Iblis can kill us there. The dreams are ours. Here we have the advantage. Anything we see want or need our minds can project. We could turn the cylons to fluffy bunnies if we want/" Adama said laughed.

"Bunnies Adama? I could not shoot a bunny" Cain said.

Everyone burst out laughing at Cain's antics

"Well what could you shoot?" Micah said trying and failing to keep a serious tone.

Cain scowled . He never admit it bunnies and fluffy creatures scared him to death.

It was Micah who came to the rescue. " I spent a lot of yearns being ... being a soldier not of the light of the darkness. I am ashamed deeply ashamed I so lost my way. Yet when I was given to the colonials for judgment I was began to see the light. Iblis has dominion only over those who willingly allow it. Even if he forced me that one time I was free to choose. All of you do as Athena says choose the light. We can won. By the lords of Kobol I was shown the way back. Surely those of you who never bent will find it easier."

" Sire I doubt it. We are all only human." Boomer said " How can we fight a demon?"

" We can and Will." Maya said " We are the light it flows through us all."

" You can do it. Fight put up a wall of light and peace. Evil cannot breach that. " A now more confident Dara said " Noah fight the dark dreams. "

" We could dream walk. "Adama suggested. "Link our dreams together. IN this way we can help defend each other. In this place we can drive Iblis away. "

"How? If we are all in slumber, we are vulnerable. The cylons could attack?" Noah said,
"We could do it in teams. Pairs Then after our nap we go on the offensive." Cain said He suddenly felt like they had a plan. One he could feel confident in.

" Commander Cain is right. We do this in pairs. Not the pairs Iblis expect either. Cain you and Micah. Adama you and Boomer. We mix it up. With people we know trust but that we are able to see as allies and friends. If we choose our families he will hurt us through them. It will be hard enough with friends." Noah said " I think we should have the command staff rotate just as it would on a normal shift. We need to go on the offensive. "

" Noah we can attack in our dreams. I know it may seem like fighting always my solution but I think it's the best way now." Cain said " I think Micah and I should o first. As allies we shake Iblis up as he knows we almost killed each other before."

Miria began to protest uncertain she trusted Cain with her beloveds life. After all Cain had no love for him. Yet Micah smiled ." You would trust me? Fight at my side once more?"

" Baltar/ Micah you changed. I think if we are to do this We will need you. Need your insight into this demon's character. I trust that you want to be good. I trust that you a family you would protect. I am trying to trust you as a man. It may take me time to forgive you but I trust that you love your wife and children. I believe in your willingness to try to do right. I suppose I hated you so because you were like my brother and I felt betrayed. "

" For what it is worth Cain I truly am sorry. I do want to make it right. I once we are safe will face the council judgment. Admit my sins and accept their punishment."Micah said Mira paled but took his hand offering her unconditional love and support.

Cain nodded. He extended his hand in peace.

Cain looked at Micah" It cannot be done. You survived being marooned. That satisfies the punishment. We cannot retry you. It goes against our laws."
Micah was shocked. Cain was actually defending him.

"No I am defending our laws. Besides, You are Micah brother to the Lord of the Azguard. I will defend that. He claimed you. Let it be enough." Cain said" We need to move on. Come let us begin this game with the dark one. I for one want to send him back to Hades."

Micah nodded. He sat down on the floor and lay out. "Ok let's go." He closed his eyes and began to enter the dream state. Cain got down next to him and closed his eyes. He felt like this was the most important battle of his life.

Cain and Micah entered the dream state. Cain opened his eyes and looked around. It was an eerie feeling as he was in or on a strange world. Micah awoke, rose, and went to find Cain. He smiled." There you are. Let's go?"

" You look like you are about 30 years old? How is this possible?" Cain asked.

"Because I want to be. My dream my reality. You can to. Come on enjoy it. After all we can be as young or old as we wish in our dreams." Micah said

It suddenly occurred to Cain that Micah was right. He closed his eyes and looked at his reflection in a pool of clear running water. He was a young man of 30. Strong and handsome. Ok he was vain. But why not. Why give Iblis all the advantages? He grinned. Adama and Noah laughed as they watched Cain and Micah antics. and Slaic set up a dream monitor they could watch what was happening. Maya looked at Dara and Mira. " Men and they say we are the vain ones."

"Well I have to say my father a nice looking man. back then." Sheba quipped.

" What do you mean was? Diana said "He is a handsome fellow now." All the women laughed as their husbands scowled.

" Yes very handsome." Cassiopeia said

" Hey ,I am here you know." Her husband to be Starbuck said

" I know Baby just teasing." Was her reply.

" Quiet we don't want to wake them. It can be dangerous there." Mira said worried for Micah safety. She was unsure if she trusted this plan. However she knew Micah needed to redeem himself in his own eyes even more so then the colonials. He still felt such remorse and guilt.

Iblis sensed a disturbance. He sent minions to check the dreams of his victims. He was startled to see Cain and Baltar walking toward him unafraid.

Sire Uri began to supervise the repairs He was deeply pleased with the progress of the repair. The workers from both fleets now worked as a well oiled machine. Civilians were literally rebuilding Commander Thigh's ship almost reacting a new one. He stood next to Tigh and pointed out the changes. "You took several bad hits commander but we fix it make this ship bigger faster stronger. I just surprised we lost so few lives. I never believed Cylon ships were built that well."

Tigh looked at Uri and said" They are not siring. I have to say your design improvements made all the differences. The ability to seal off compartment-by-compartment and those specialized internal and external shields did the trick. I may have had differences over the yearns but I always respected your shipbuilding and design skills. That ship survived a bad attack Sire. I know we live thanks to you and your people. That is a no small thing. I told the council and asked you be honored for it. You saved lots of people's lives."

Uri was shocked and strangely pleased. He Tigh and Adama were indeed getting along better. To say they were friends was a starch but he hoped to change that. Now that he finally understood where they were coming from.

Diana walked over to Mira's side." Come sit Siress. You must rest. Your daughters and new son need you to be strong. So then does your husband. I know this is hard."

" I am so afraid. Micah is my world. He helped me free from darkness. I was going to… To betray my people. He stopped that by showing me the proceed I would pay. That no amount of power or wealth was worth the pain. "Mira said" We ... We he is my match. Only he so much better of a man then I am a woman."

Diana patted her hand. What could she say. Other than to have faith. They all had to have it.

In the Dream both men felt powerful. They could control this battle. Cain clapped Micah on the shoulder and they began to run. Run toward the dark tower. " He will be there." Micah said." I can hardly wait to destroy him."

" We need a plan." Cain said.

" I have one. We attack we send him to Hades and go home." Micah said

Cain sighed suddenly seeing what drove Adama so crazy. That be his normal plan of attack. He smiled and considered it. Well it could work ... " Ok we try it."

I am going in now. "Maya said "We cannot have them be to over confident. Dara are you joining me?"

" Oh, yes. No way are you doing this alone". "Dara Maya no. I cannot risk either of you." Noah said. His heart began to beat fast fear freezing him.

" "Noah we have to go. "Dara said "We both know that realm. We should not let them go it alone. Both are too sure of themselves."

Noah agreed with that assessment but he hated to risk his family." Adama I am going to. "

"We all will go. I think our subordinates can handle the fleet for a while."Adama said he too was growing oddly afraid. Like it was a trap for his friends.
--------------------

Iblis smiled they had no idea how powerful he was. Her in their dreams . Yes they might have some control but he knew their fears and he use them use them to destroy the humans. They would all pay for his being cast out. All of Saga's children bow to him or be destroyed.

Adama entered the sleep cycle Boomer with him. The two raced to find their friends. It was going to be a close thing. As Cain and Micah walked suddenly, the ground opened up and they fell in. I to a pit of fire and ice.

Micah fell and caught an hand hold. He grabbed Cain who fell first. "Hold on. Lords of Kobol where are we?"

" Hades. We fell into Hades. Cain replied. Fear almost sending him to a blind panic.

" Frak. Hold on. Hold on to me Cain." Micah was not going to fail again.

Fear ate at Cain. He held on though. He forced his mind to trust in his friend. He looked up and Saw Baltar. Not Micah. He saw his friend of his youth. A man he trusted deeply. Cain knew if he was to survive he had to have faith. Faith in Baltar the man. He swallowed. "Do not let me drop. Baltar Swing me to the ledge. You will fall otherwise."

" No Cain. I going to pull you up." Baltar shouted.

Adama and Boomer ran toward the two men as flames shot up in front of them. Noah Dara and Maya were on their heels. Adama waved his hand and the flames dissipated." It is not real it is an illusion he shouted. "His will drove it back. He dove down and caught Baltar as his hand slipped. He strained and slid forward. Boomer dropped and caught his legs. He dug in trying to stop the men from falling forward. Adama strained to pull Baltar up. "Hold on Friend I have you. Use both hands pull Cain up."

Faith Micah thought, "Hold on my friend. He let go and counted on Adama holding his legs. His other hand cough Cain's and he pulled him up. The others helped hold Boomer and began to pull him back from the edge as they did so Adama and Then Baltar and Cain came up. All collapsed exhausted.

" Be more careful." Adama admonished

"Yes do, Lord you weigh a tin Cain." Micah joked.

" I do not Baltar. I all muscle." An indignant commander shouted. Laugher erupted and lighting flashed as Iblis showed his rage at failure.
--------------------

"By the Lords of Kobol, the Cylon Empire is about to fall!" Commander Cain - The Living Legend

Iblis wicked laugh flooded the dream world. "Fool think you command here. I know all of you. Your ever dark twisted desire and fear. I know you are weak and pathetic. You seek safety. I offered you a way and you rejected me. So I send you all to Hades!'

"No Iblis you cannot." Adama said boldly. As he pulled His friends to their feet." YOU have no dominion over us unless we allow it."

Iblis laughed harder. "But you have Adama you have. You entered my world of your own free will."

Noah froze." Adama that the trap. We walked into. He right he has some control. We ceded it to enter the dreamscape"

Adama considered "Only the part of our dreams. Not our will or souls. We can still win. We just must have a care. He seeks to make us give up."

I told you all .Another time another place. One of my choosing. You came here and I win. I claim your souls as my reward and you suffer for eternity. Come catch me if you dare." Iblis mocked as he faded away. The group saw the dark ones true face and they all shook a little. For the prince of lies was truly frightening to gaze upon.

Pg 29

A strange peace over came Adama. He looked at his friends and family"Faith we will win." As he spoke a light engulfed them all. And an angel of light joined them.

- "Greetings my children. Have faith and you will drive the demon away."-

"Who are you? " Adama asked afraid of a trap.

There was a soft chuckle."Adama my son. I am Sagan and I gift you with the power to lock Iblis away. You just must have faith." He faded out .

'Adama no." Eve said running to his side."Do not do this." He pulled her to him and kissed her hard."I love you. But I must."

Noah moved to his brother side. "Not alone."

Adama smiled a little sadly and stepped away from his family."It has always been between us."Before anyone could say another word he vanished.
They heard Iblis wickedly evil laugh.

"Come then and face your doom son of shall pay for his sins."

"Adama no!" Eve screamed. She ran to where he been. "No ...No... Noah help, help him." She cried out. Even felt Maya strong arms catch her as did Dana. They exchanged a look. Both faced Noah.

Noah took a deep breath as he helped Cain and Micah up." Let's go home. We will wait and watch. It is all we can do. Adama must fight this battle. For he ...he alone may win." he looked at the shaken Eve. Adama had changed in that last centon. He become pure white energy. He looked at Dana.

"He be fine Eve. He is no longer a mere mortal. He is more. He can match the dark one." Dana said

Noah gather them together" We cannot win on this plane. We must go back. Only them may we help him. He might need our strength."

Maya looked at Micah" You did well. Saved Cain."

"Yes...He is my friend. I had to save him. I had to repay my debt." Micah said sadly

"It is repaid..." Cain said "More than repaid. "He leaned on Diana barely able to shake his terror. "
"I ...Thank you Baltar… Micah."

TBC...