Battlestar Galactica: Confrontation
Virtual Season 4, Episode 3
By Matt Wiser, October 10, 2014

     Sheba and Hunley were in the Galactica's Ward Room, being debriefed after their patrol by Commander Adama. He was very interested in their find of a system with a developed mine site, packed with ores and even Tylium, which, according to information picked up at their RB-33 stop, was not used by any of the spacefaring races in this sector of the galaxy. They were discussing the find not only with Adama, but the Cylon flight leader, Vettius, when Technician Hummer, who among his other duties, examined all Viper scanner recordings, came into the room. He saluted and Adama nodded. "Commander, Lieutenant, there's something on the scanner recording you need to see." 
     "What is it, Technician?" Adama wanted to know.
     "Sir, I was checking the Viper flight recordings, when I found this." He put a disc into a player and hit the PLAY button. On the screen, images of the runaway greenhouse world came onto the screen. Then came the actual scanner recording. "Here, sir," Hummer said. "Ma'am," he added, nodding to Sheba. "Right near the north pole of the planet, just barely outside the upper atmosphere. A brief blip." 
     "A ship?" Adama asked, leaning in close to the images.
     "It may be, Commander," Hummer said. "It's on both Vipers' recordings." 
     "Flight Leader Vettius," Adama said to the Cylon on the screen. "Can you transmit your own scanner data to the Galactica? We need to make sure this isn't a technical malfunction of some kind."
     "By your command," the Centurion said. 
     A few centons later, the data came in to the Galactica via data link. Hummer took a look at the data and nodded. "They have it too, Commander. It's a ship."
     "But why hide there?" Hunley asked. 
     "It's an old pirate technique, Lieutenant," Adama replied, nodding. "Back in my destroyer and cruiser days, I had my share of anti-piracy duty. Under the right conditions, one can use a planet's magnetic field as a cloak. If it's strong enough, hide your ship as far down towards one of the poles as possible, and rig for silent running. And with this abandoned mine...."
     "It's too tempting a target to pass up," Sheba said. Even her father, Commander Cain, had pulled similar duty in his days as a junior officer. "It's simple: hide there, wait for somebody to come for the ores at the mine, and while they're loading....." She drew her forefinger across her throat. 
     "Exactly," Adama said. He turned to Hummer. "Any idea who this is?" 
     "No, sir. Given where this ship's hiding, we were lucky to get this much. If it were not for the recent modifications to our scanners thanks to Ziklagi technology, we might have missed it entirely." 
     "I see," Adama said. ""My thanks to all of you. Well done." 
     "By your command," Vettius replied, while the two Viper pilots and Hummer said "Yes, sir." 
     They started to leave, when Adama said to Hummer. "Technician, remain here." 
     "Sir?" Hummer replied. 
     "I need you to explain this to a couple of other officers, then I want you to take this data apart. See if you can't get anything else." 
     "Yes, sir." 
     Adama nodded, then went to a telecom. "Bridge, Commander Adama."
     "Omega here, sir," a voice replied. 
     "Omega, have Colonel Tigh, Major Croft, and Captain Apollo report to the Ward Room. And have Baltar join us please, by com link." 
     "Sir."

     A few centons later, the other three officers came into the Ward Room, and Baltar was present via com. "Gentlemen, we have detected a huge potential lode of valuable ores that the foundry ship can use, as well as Tylium, but there may be a....problem." Adama told the four. 
     "What do you mean, Commander?" Tigh asked. 
     "Technician," Adama motioned to Hummer, and the scanner replays came up, morphed into a 3-D holographic. Not just the imagery of the mine site, but the scanner blip as well.
     "The blip is on both Viper and Raider scanners, and is evidently a ship of some kind, not a scanner ghost. That's all we know, given the limited data," Hummer nodded. "No idea as to size, or any other data." 
     "A second patrol?" Apollo asked. 
     "An excellent suggestion," Baltar said. "Especially since our recent discovery..."
     "Indeed, Baltar," Adama replied. "We'll send a second patrol." He turned to Tigh. "How soon can we have the Fleet outside the heliopause of that system?" 
     Tigh called up the data on the Ward Room terminal. "Forty-eight centars, at present Fleet speed." 
     "Very well," Adama said. "We can't pass up the ores, or the Tylium. Hopefully, one of two things will happen: either that ship leaves the system, or we can establish peaceful contact with them." 
     "Or, as is possible," Baltar noted. "They could ignore us entirely." 
     "If these are Sergeant Wagner's pals, Commander," Croft said. "They may not be interested in talking." 
     "Understood, Major," Adama said. "Any other comments?" You had your share of anti-piracy duty, and that ship's acting like a pirate would."
     "Or a commerce raider," Tigh said. "This could be, for all we know, a war zone." 
     "No signs of that, from our patrols," Baltar pointed out. 
     "Commander, even if that mine blew up by accident," Croft said. "Pirates could still be interested. If they're anything like the pirates I've known, they're not interested in doing the heavy lifting, so they're waiting for somebody to come by and pick up that ore. And while they're busy...." He drew his finger across his throat, and Apollo nodded.
     "Understood, Major," Adama said. "We'll proceed on that basis. Maintain the patrol schedule, and scout the outer planets of that system for any potential surprises."
     "Agreed," Baltar said. "Adama, may I suggest that we begin to have fighters on alert?" 
     "By all means," Adama nodded. "A single squadron from both the Galactica and the Base Ship, on standby alert, should do for the moment. With no confirmation of who, or what, that ship is or belongs to, that ought to be enough." 
     Heads nodded. "The new Rules of Engagement are in effect?" Apollo asked. 
     "They are now," Adama replied. "Any other questions?" There were none. "All right: let's proceed. Colonel, as soon as our other patrols are back aboard, get the Fleet on its new course."
     "Yes, Commander," Tigh said. 
     

     Two days later, with the Fleet now outside the system, Sheba and Hunley, with Vettius and Castus, launched again and headed right for the greenhouse world. Now aware that someone might be lurking there, and also might be paying interest in their activities, the pilots decided not to draw attention to their mission, and made several low-level passes over the mine site. At the same time, both capital ships scanned the system intently from the heliopause. The imagery collected would help plan the landing at the mine site when it came time to collect the ore. Once the passes were done, Hunley noticed something on her scanner. "Sheba, ship on scanner. Right over the greenhouse world."
     "I see it," Sheba replied. "Vettius?" 
     "By your command," the Cylon flight leader replied. "We also have scanner contact." 
     "Remember the rules of engagement."
     "Understood."

     Aboard the ship in question, swathed in the planet's magnetic pole, a sensor operator called to his superior. "Ships on sensors."
     The officer came over. "Identity?"
     "Unknown. They are similar to the signatures detected previously."
     "Not Ke'zar?" Asked the officer. Was there anyplace in the galaxy where they could avoid those scum, and at last prepare for the inevitable reconquest?"
     "They do not match any known signatures. Not Ke'zar, Egyrnian, Harkaelian, or any others in our home sector."
     "Continue observation," the officer said. He went over to the Commander's console. "Commander to the Bridge."
     In the Commander's cabin, the commander of the vessel was taking an interest in his personal slave. The woman, a Te'rean who have been brought from the home planet in stasis, had been revived, and when the opportunity presented itself to have a slave from the camp, he went at the chance, something no other field commander had been offered. No doubt his family connections had something to do with it, and he took the opportunity as soon as it was possible. The woman, who told him that she knew nothing of importance about her home area, despite the fact she had been wearing a military uniform when she had been taken, was his personal servant and occasional plaything. "I expect the cabin to be spotless when I return." 
     "Yes, My Lord," she said, keeping her eyes down. She had been defiant towards him previously, and that was a trait she had shared with others at the camp. That had been beaten out of her, though.
     The commander arrived on the Bridge, and asked the watch officer. "Yes?" 
     "Unknown ships on sensors. Similar to the ones detected previously." 
     "Action Stations," the commander said. "We'll deal with these intruders in short order. Maybe we can apprehend one for interrogation."
     "Sir."
     Quickly, the klaxon sounded, and all stations reported action ready. "Helm, full ahead. Weapons on standby."

     
     "Sheba!" Hunley called. "That ship's coming out!"
     "I see it," Sheba replied. She scanned the target, emerging from just beyond the north polar region. Then a chill hit her. "It's them!"
     "What?" Huley asked.
     "The Abductors! Wagner's pals. Same configuration, same alloys detected. And they're coming right for us. Vettius, stand by to break on my call." 
     "By your command," the Cylon flight leader responded. 
     
     "Approaching firing range," the gunnery officer said.
     "Commence firing," the commander ordered. He'd never been in combat before, and this was what all of his training and experience had prepared him for. He prayed the gods would be smiling on him this day.

     "They're firing on us," Hunley said. This wasn't her first time under fire in a Viper, but it felt like it. She was calm, but not trying to show her excitement.
     "Vettius," Sheba called, "Break!"
     Both Vipers and Raiders broke to avoid the red beams headed towards them. As they rolled away, the alien ship turned to follow.
     "Patrol One to Galactica," Sheba called, hitting her auto-distress.
     "Go ahead, Sheba," Omega replied over the com.
     "We're under attack," she replied. "It's the Abductors, confirmed, and they're firing on us."
     "Understood," Omega said. He called to Adama, who was studying the plot board with Tigh. "Commander, Sheba's patrol is under attack."
     "Identity?" Adama wanted to know.
     "The Abductors," she said," the Bridge Officer replied. He brought up the patrol's real-time telemetry for Adama.
     "Notify Baltar, and launch the alert fighters from both Galactica and the Base Ship. Battle Stations."


     Apollo and the rest of the pilots from Blue Squadron were sitting in their squadron's Ready Room, waiting. Apollo hated waiting, as he wanted to get the mission over with. As he stroked his beard, he thought about a game of Pyramid to pass the time, wondering how Starbuck was doing. Then, the alarm sounded. He and his pilots grabbed their helmets and flight gear, and ran for their Vipers. Within two Centons, they were ready to launch. The order came right away, and their Vipers shot from the launch tubes and out into space. Simultaneously, a squadron of Raiders launched from the Base Ship. The fighters joined up, and headed in. 
     Apollo called his wife. "Sheba, how's it going?"
     "So far, so good," she replied. They're shooting, but we're too fast for them to track."
     "Vettius?" 
     "Confirmed, Captain," the Cylon Flight Leader responded. "No ship has been hit yet."
     "Orion, time to go in."
     "By your command," Orion said. "All crews, arm weapons. Stand by to attack."

     On the alien ship, the commander was in a rage. "What do you mean they're too fast?" 
     "Commander," the gunnery officer was saying. "The intruders are too fast for our fire-control to track effectively. They constantly evade the predictors." 
     "Full speed," the commander ordered.
     "Commander..." the sensor officer said as he hovered over one of the sensor operators.
     "What?" he roared.
     "Sensors are picking up additional ships. Multiple targets of two types. The same types we are engaging. All are coming this way."
     "By all the gods! Release gunnery to local control," the commander ordered. "Arm torpedoes."
      His ship shuddered as shots from the intruders connected. "Emergency power to defense screens!"

     Aboard the Constellation, Captain Byrne had been enjoying a rare leisurely lunch with both Jena and Sergeant Wagner, and the topic of discussion was a replay of the 1998 Nagano Winter Olympics-many of the old Olympic broadcasts had been included in the large database on the Saint Brendan, at the request of Jen's mother-a former Olympic skater herself, and a winter sports fanatic The previous evening, the trio, along with Mr. Dante and Mr. Malik, had watched the gold-medal game in women's hockey, with, so far, was the only one that Team USA had won, and he had no idea what had happened in Sochi and beyond, of course. 
     "Those girls play rough," Lauren said. Great Falls had a minor-league men's team, and the team was known for playing rough, and when necessary, fighting rough. 
     "At least they don't fight in the Olympics. "You know the saying by now: 'I went to a fight and a hockey game broke out.'" Byrne noted. The Canadians play pretty rough, I'll grant you."
     "You showed Boomer a couple of hockey games, right, Pop?" Jen asked. 
     "Yeah," Byrne replied. "He's interested in some of our sports. He..." Then Byrne was interrupted by a call from the Bridge. "I thought I gave orders not to be disturbed when we're eating. Unless we were actually being attacked." He went to his telecom. "Yes?"
     "Dante here, Captain," The Galactica has put the Fleet on full alert, and has gone to battle stations."
     "WHAT?" 
     "A patrol is under attack, and has engaged the Abductors," Dante reported. "More fighters have been launched from both the Galactica and the Base Ship."
     "Very well. Sound General Quarters, and let's get to Battle Stations," Byrne ordered. "I'll be on the Bridge."
     'Yes, sir!" 
     As the general alarm sounded, Byrne told Jen. "You know the drill."
     "I know, Pop. Stay in the cabin until the ship's secured from GQ," Jen said. 
     "Good girl," her father said. He turned to Wagner. "Sergeant, if these really are your old pals, I want you with me on the Bridge. Mr. Malik will send a backup gunner to your turret."
     "Yes, sir," Wagner replied, though she wasn't too happy. The chance at blasting some of those who'd taken her.....but she also knew the Captain was right. She knew these scum better than anyone.
     "Let's go," Byrne said as the PA sounded. "General Quarters, General Quarters! All hands, man your battle stations! This is not a drill! Repeat, this is no drill!"

     Apollo led Blue Squadron and Orion led his squadron into the fight. So far, the four patrol ships had not been hit, but the alien gunnery was getting too close for comfort, as though their systems were slowly adjusting to the unfamiliar opponents. Then all four finally got out of alien weapons range, and they joined up with the incoming fighters. Commander Adama then came on the line. "Apollo, Orion, do not destroy that ship. I want it disabled, if possible. When their weapons and rives are disabled, maybe we can talk to them."
     "Understood, Galactica," Apollo said. 
     "By your command," Orion replied. 
     "Orion," Apollo called to his Cylon counterpart. "I'll take my Vipers in and draw their fire away from you. Your job is to knock out their drive, and force them to stop."
     "By your command," Orion said. "Moving into position."
     "All right..." Apollo said as he saw the alien ship picking up speed and closing in. "Break and attack!"
     Apollo led his Vipers in on the aliens' port side, and they quickly found the alien gunners were shooting behind them. It was as if their fire-control systems couldn't handle a small, high-speed target like a Viper or Raider. Apollo lined up a gun mount in his sights and pressed the FIRE button, and as his turbolasers fired, he saw his fire punch through the alien shielding and blow the gun mount apart. At the same time, Jolly was leading his half of the squadron in, and they were quickly engaging the starboard side, and molten bits of metal flew into space as weapons mounts on that side of the ship were knocked out.
 
     "They're going for our weapons mounts!" The ship's First Officer said. 
     "Starboard and port shields are down!' Another officer cried.
     "Bring us around, Helm," the commander said. "Let's bring our aft batteries to bear."
     "The ovoid ships are coming in from aft!" The tactical officer shouted. The vessel shook, and lights dimmed. "We're taking hits in engineering."

     Orion's fighters came in from astern, and they hardly had any fire coming back at them, as if the alien gunners were not expecting an attack from that quarter. The Raiders opened fire at his command,  and blue streaks of laser fire smashed into the alien ship's stern. There was an explosion, and the alien ship's exhaust suddenly went dark.
     "Maneuvering drive is out. Light-speed is out," the damage-control officer reported on the alien ship's bridge. 
     "Main reactor status?" The commander asked. 
     "Offline. Full auxiliary power is available." Just then, the main viewscreen went dead. 
     "Get me Engineering!" 

     "Captain," Orion called to Apollo. "Enemy ship disabled. No casualties."
     "Good work, Orion. There's a couple of ventral turrets we haven't been able to take out. Can you give us some help?"
     "By your command," Orion replied.
     "Okay," Apollo said. "I'll draw their fire, you take out the gun mount." He and Brie rolled around for another pass. 
     "Coming in," said Orion.
     The two Vipers flew past the ventral turrets, and both weapons tried to track the Vipers and fired, but their shots either flew wide of the mark, or flew behind. None of the alien gunners saw the flight of Raiders coming in until it was too late, and Cylon laser fire ripped the turrets to pieces. 
     "Good work," Apollo called. "That's it for the gun mounts."
     "Watch for the missile tubes in the bow," Jolly said. "Just had two of 'em come after me."
     "One pass," Apollo said. "See if we can't take those out without blowing half the ship."
     "Right with you, Skipper," Jolly called as he brought his flight around. Apollo's and Jolly's flights, eight Vipers, sprayed the bow of the ship with laser fire, knocking out the missile tubes, and, unknown to the Viper pilots, destroying the ship's main communications antennae.

     "Commander..." the First Officer said. "All weapons now offline. Shields are down, and no auxiliaries available."
     "They mean to board us," the commander admitted. "But they cannot board. Where is their carrier?"

     Adama had watched the fight from the Galactica's bridge. He was thinking about his next step when Apollo called. "Galactica, this is Blue Leader."
     "Go ahead, Blue Leader," Omega said into his headset. At a nod from Adama, he put it on speakers.
     "Alien ship disabled, Galactica, but who knows how long that'll be?" 
     "Understood, Blue Leader. Stand by," Omega replied. 
     "Omega, have both Blue Squadron and the Cylons maintain a cover position. When that's done, get me both Baltar and Captain Byrne."
     "Sir." Within a centon, the connection was made, and both Baltar and Byrne appeared on separate monitors."
     "Yes, Adama?" Asked Baltar.
     "Commander?" Bryrne asked. 
     "I want you to launch your fighters, and I'll be launching the rest of mine as well. Their mission will be to protect the Fleet, along with the Adelaide and the Century. As for your ships? Captain, take the Constellation in and prevent them from escaping back to that greenhouse world. They hid there before, and might try again."
     "Understood, Commander," Byrne said. 
     "Baltar," Adama continued. "Take the Base Ship and move in on their right flank. I'll take the Galactica in on their left. And then, maybe, just maybe, we can talk to them."
     "After the pounding they've received?" Baltar asked. "They may not be in a talking mood."
     "I know," Adama admitted. "But at least we can say we tried. Then if there's no response, it'll be up to Major Croft to board that ship." 
     "Very well," Baltar said. On the screen, Adama could see that he was talking to Moray. "I'm launching now." 
     "Good," Adama said. "Colonel," he continued, turning to Tigh. "Launch all remaining squadrons."
     After the Vipers and Raiders had launched, Adama nodded. "All right, Omega. Let's go in."

     "Launch fighters, Mr. Dante," Byrne said on Constellation's bridge.
     "Yes, sir!' 
     After the fighters had launched, all three heavy ships moved in on the alien. Byrne brought Constellation around, as as he did, the bridge crew saw on their viewscreen the alien ship. For Wagner, this was the first time she'd seen one of her abductors' ships in flight for real, and as she watched, Byrne noticed that she was grasping and releasing her Mark-23 pistol. No doubt, he knew, she was hoping to use it on one of the aliens. "Helm," he said to the helmsman. "Take us in."
     "Yes, sir."

     On the alien ship, the commander was snapping at his officers, urging that the repairs be completed, forgetting his training that emphasized staying out of the way of specialists, especially damage-control parties. Then his sensor officer called, and his voice had a hint of dread. "Commander....three ships approaching. Two very large, one medium-sized." As he spoke, the main screen slowly came back to life. It resolved on the approaching vessels.
     "What in..." someone said, as the nature of their foes became clear. On the right, a terrifying monster of s ship was closing in on them. Looking like two obscenely huge child's discus toys put together, it was over six felangs in diameter, nearly as much from top to bottom. Bristling with weapons, it slowed, keeping pace with their own vessel. As he tried to swallow, the commander couldn't help but feel intimidated by the way the ship spun, slowly, like a child's top.
     Then, to their left, another ship, as different from the first as night and day, yet no less frightening, came in. with a mass reading almost as big as the first, it had a huge bow, with some sort of outrigger structures on each side. Like the first, it had weapons that outgunned him more than two-hundred to one, and was just as intimidating in its own way, as the saucer-shaped leviathan.
     "Get us out of here, Helm!" Shouted the commander, but it was no use. Maneuvering thrusters were still down, and another ship was blocking the back door. While not as large as the others, it was even so more than three times his own size, and glowed with power.
None of the three ships were Ke'zar, none was known to them, and every weapon they could scan was hot, and locked onto them.
     "Incoming signal, sir," said the com officer."We are being hailed."
     "By all the gods!" said the commander.


     "Athena, open a channel," Adama ordered on Galactica's bridge. "And have the Languatron engaged."
     Athena nodded, typed in a couple of comands at her station, then replied, "You're on, Commander."
     Adama took a deep breath, then he identified himself. "Attention alien vessel, this is Commander Adama of the Colonial Battlestar Galactica. To whom do I have the....pleasure of speaking?"

     "Commander," the alien ship's communications officer said. "We have their transmission."
     "On screen," the commander said. The screen came to life, and the commander was shocked. There was an older Te'rean male, with white hair, and dressed in a blue uniform. And yet, his presence indicated authority, decision, strength, and leadership.
     "I am Commander Lemeshik of the Risik Star Force vessel Lesh'ek. I protest your attack on my vessel."
     "Commander, if your ship had not fired on our patrol, this entire incident could have been avoided," Adama said. "Your people are known to us, I have to say."
     "How so?" 
     Adama took another deep breath. "Commander," he said. "My patrols discovered one of your ships, derelict, orbiting an uninhabited world a considerable distance from here. Aboard that ship, we discovered a female, from a world we call Earth, held in a form of cryo-sleep. She had been taken from that world against her will, and brutally treated."
     "You are Te'rean!" Lemeshik boomed, pounding a fist on the arm of his chair. "I do not treat with inferiors and heretics!" 
     "Commander, you know of the world?" Adama asked.
     "Yes!" hissed the other, angrily. "And one day, that world will once again be under our control, as it once was, and as it should be!" 
     "Commander, I again, regret the engagement," Adama said. "However, your decision to fire on my patrol without warning or provocation, necessitated the action taken. If you wish, we can discuss this matter in a more....pleasant setting."
     Lemeshik glared at Adama, then turned to his First Officer, dropping his voice. "Weapons status?"
     "One torpedo tube now operational, and one torpedo ready. All others are still offline."
     "Can we maneuver?" 
     "Engineering reports a single thruster back online, but yes, we can maneuver," the First Officer replied.
     "Commander Adama," Lemeshik hissed. "Here is my response." He then cut the link.
     On the Galactica Bridge, Athena turned to Adama. "Communication link broken, Commander, at the source."
     "Damn." 
     "Commander," Tigh said. "They're turning to port. Bringing their bow to bear on us."

     "Target locked," the weapons officer said.
     "Fire," Lemeshik growled.

     "He's fired a missile, Commander," Oemga said, looking at the monitor.
     "Full ECM," Adama ordered.

     The alien missile seemed to track the Galactica at first, then it was hit by the massive blast of Colonial ECM, and it staggered away, going below and away from the Battlestar. When it reached the end of its run, it exploded in an apparent end-of-run detonation in a blast of nuclear fire.
     "Nuclear detonation, Commander," Omega reported. "Computron readout shows a detonation in the fifteen kiloton range."
     "Scan that ship for any additional nuclear devices," Adama ordered.
     Omega nodded, then worked his keyboard. "Scan negative for additional devices, Commander. However, there's nuclear material aboard, concentrated in what was the bow missile tubes." 
     "Commander!' Athena said. "I've got a Human life form reading from that ship."
     Adama and Tigh came over to her station. "You're certain?" Adama asked.
     "Confirmed," Athena replied. She called up the plans of the derelict ship. "It's female, and it's coming from the area of the Captain's cabin." 
     "Not the lab area?" 
     "No, Commander, I'm certain of it. The layout of the two ships is almost the same."

     "Commander, the torpedo-" 
     "I saw it," Lemeshik snarled at his First Officer. "They are Te'rean, no doubt."
     "But how? All of our information was that Te'rea was a backwards planet, barely able to travel in space on its own." 
     "Enough time has passed," Lemeshik growled. "They have obviously contacted others. Now they have an advanced space-faring capability of their own."
     "And now what?" 
     "We wait."

     "Get Major Croft here, Omega," Adama ordered. "Now."
     "Yes, Commander," 
     "Commander, if Athena's scan is right-" Tigh said. 
     "Then we have a hostage from Earth on that ship," Adama finished. "Omega, get me Captain Byrne on the Constellation."
     "Right away, Commander."

     "Captain," Alyssa, the GQ communications officer, said to Byrne on Constellation's bridge. "Incoming message from the Galactica."
     "Give it to me here," Byrne said. He went to his station, where Adama's face appeared on the monitor. "Commander?" 
     "Captain," Adama nodded. "I just had a talk with the alien captain. It didn't go well."
     "I noticed, Commander," Byrne said. "Nothing says 'Go to Hades' as you say, like a nuclear missile."
     "Quite so," Adama replied. "We've also picked up a Human life sign on that ship. It appears there's a prisoner from Earth on that ship."
     "Commander," Byrne said. "You do know my feelings on that, as well as Sergeant Wagner's?" 
     "I do, Captain, and I see she's right behind you. Turn the ship over to Lieutenant Dante, and I need both  of you here, on the Galactica. We may need your input on a boarding action," Adama said.
     "If you're boarding that ship, Commander," Wagner said, speaking for the first time. "I volunteer to accompany the boarding party."
     "We can discuss that when you're aboard," Adama said. "Report to me on the Bridge, as soon as possible."
     "Yes, sir," Byrne said, then Adama cut the link. "Mr. Dante, have Ensign Adele get the Armstrong prepped to launch ASAP. You have the deck." 
     Dante nodded. "Right away, sir." 

     Byrne and Wagner headed for the Landing Bay, but she had a stop at the Security Office first. Metxan, her deputy, was there, as that was his GQ Station, and he nodded as she went into her office, picking up her HK-416 assault rifle, tactical vest, and several magazines. While she was doing that, Byrne used the telecom  and called Jena in the cabin she and Wagner shared, and told her that the two of them had to go over to Galactica, and he'd explain later. Then they went to the Landing Bay, where the Armstrong was waiting, and Ensign Adele was at the ready. After receiving clearance to launch, the shuttle headed out of the bay, and over to the Galactica. When the Armstrong landed, Castor was waiting for them as Byrne and Wagner disembarked. 
     "Captain," Castor said, saluting.
     "Lieutenant," Byrne replied. "I see you're our welcoming committee." 
     "Yes, sir," Castor replied. "Nice to see you again, Sergeant, though under less than ideal circumstances."
     "Thanks, Castor," Wagner said. "So there's a prisoner from Earth on that ship?" 
     Castor nodded. "That's about it. You're to report to the Bridge, and I'll take care of your hardware, Sergeant." He meant her assault rifle and tactical gear.
     She nodded, and handed the equipment over. 
     "I'll see you when we start planning," Castor said. 
     "Will do," Byrne said. He turned to Wagner. "Let's go."
     The two Earthers headed for the Bridge, and for Wagner, this was the first time she'd been there.                          
"First for you, sir?"      
     "No, I've been there a few times," Byrne replied. 
     "First for me," she admitted. "Man, I still get overwhelmed....the size of this ship."
     "Yeah, she takes some getting used to, I'll admit." It took a few centons, but the two arrived, and when they got there, Adama was at the Commander's station, talking with Tigh.
     "Commander?" Byrne said. "Reporting as ordered." And both saluted. 
     "Captain, Sergeant," Adama replied. "Have a look at this." He motioned them to Athena's station. "Call up the scanner data you showed me, please."
     "Yes, Commander," Athena said. She typed in the command, and the information came up. "Here we are: a Human life sign. Female." 
     "Where is this on the ship?" Byrne asked. 
     "I've called up the deck plans of the derelict," Athena said. "This ship is about twenty percent larger than the ship we found, but the layout is pretty much the same. It corresponds to the Captain's Cabin or close to it."
     Adama nodded. "Now where is.." Then Major Croft arrived. "Major."
     "Sorry to be late, Commander," Croft replied, saluting as he did so. "It's been a while since I've had to go from one area to another while at Battle Stations."
     Adama understood. "No problem, Major. Have a look at this." He nodded to Athena. 
     She replayed the data again, and Croft nodded. "Yes, sir. I think I have an idea for how to take that ship, Commander. I'll need to flesh it out, but we can do it."
     "Good, Major. The three of you, get back to the SF Area and draw up your plan. Time is of the essence here. If they can repair their FTL drive, we may not get another chance."
     "It won't take long, Commander," Croft replied. "I'll notify you when we're ready to deploy."
     Adama nodded, then turned to Tigh. "Secure from Battle Stations. Set Readiness Level Two, and inform Baltar and the Constellation." 
     "Yes, Commander," 
     "And recall both Blue Squadron and Orion's squadron. Get them turned around immediately.'
     "Commander." 


     Byrne, Croft, and Wagner went back to the SF Area, where Croft informed the Team of their new mission. "Now, people, we're going to board that ship. We've got to sweep and secure her, before they can use their self-destruct. There's an added complication: scans indicate there's a Human life sign on that ship, and it's very likely that this is an Earth Human. The scan indicated a female. Sergeant Wagner will be coming with us on this one, though both she and Captain Byrne will be assisting with mission planning."
     Heads nodded at that. Though word had gone around about Wagner's handling of two Il Fadim suspects-killing one on Galactica as well as her fight with Laban, along with her boarding the traitorous councilmen's shuttle, none of the team, apart from Castor, had seen her in action. Now they'd be able to see what she was capable of.
     Croft then called up the schematics of the derelict. "Now, by all information, this ship, though about twenty percent larger, is almost identical in layout to the derelict. This time, though, it's a forcible entry, and we will meet resistance." 
     Castor nodded. "Major, this has to be a dual boarding. One team is going to have to hit their Engineering spaces." He traced it out on the graphic. "And another their armory. If they haven't already distributed weapons to the crew, that is." 
     "Right on that. Based on data from the derelict's computer, Hummer's people were able to slice into their mainframe. We've got the access codes for each security door and airlock on that ship, so we won't need to use explosives. Teams One and Three, you're with me. We go in via the dorsal airlock, here," indicating an airlock on the upper deck of the schematic, and go for the Bridge. "Teams Two and Four, go in the same airlock we did on the derelict, and secure the Engineering spaces, armory, and lab area."
     "Why the lab area?" Corporal Dorado asked. 
     "In case they have anyone in stasis," Wagner said, speaking for the first time. She turned to Croft. "Sorry, Major."
     "No apologies necessary," Croft said. "And you're quite right. Get to the lab area as quick as you can, and secure any documents, computers and so on."
     "Rules of Engagement?" Tellus asked, and several heads nodded at that question.
     "Anyone with weapon in hand, or going for one, dies," Croft said, right then and there. "No exceptions."
     "We taking the Earth weapons on this one?" Castor asked. 
     "A mix. Some of ours, and theirs," Croft said, nodding at Byrne and Wagner. "Stun anyone who isn't a threat, but kill anyone who is."
     "Gotcha, Major," Castor replied. 
     "Major, if I may?" Byrne asked. 
     "Captain?" Croft replied. 
     'You've got to move fast. We don't know if that self-destruct system's offline, or how fast they can bring it back if it is. We also can't be sure they didn't get a call out to any other ships in the system before we took out their antenna array. Or if they're late for a check-in. We don't need a fleet of hostiles dropping in on us while we're trying to execute a boarding action." 
     "Will do," Croft said. "That's why we'll get to Engineering and their bridge ASAP." He looked around. "Any other questions?" There were none. "All right: Sergeant, you're with me on Team One."
     Wagner nodded, then had an evil-looking grin. "Yes, sir."
     "That's it. Let's get our gear, and be ready to move out. Teams One and Three in the first Mark X. Two and Four go in the second. Be ready to move in thirty Centons." 
     "I'll get back to the Bridge, Major," Byrne nodded, putting out his hand. "Good luck."
     Croft shook hands with Byrne. "Thanks, Captain." 
     "And you, too, Sergeant," Byrne said. "Remember, this isn't a vendetta."
     "Yes, sir," Wagner nodded. "But if the one I want is on that ship...."
     "Take him alive, if you can," Byrne replied. "Remember, it's kind of hard to interrogate a corpse."
     "Yes, sir," she replied with a smile.
     "Good luck to all of you, and be careful. Do it to them before they can do it to you," Byrne said. 
     "You got it, Captain," Croft replied. 


     Captain Byrne returned to the Bridge, where he informed Adama that Croft had a plan for the boarding. Adama then contacted Croft, who gave him a quick run-down of his bparding plan. Nothing fancy, just hit the aliens fast and hard, and don't give them time to use their self-destruct system. Adama quickly approved the plan, and had flight operations get two of the four Mark X shuttles ready for operations. Then Adama asked Byrne to remain on the Bridge, and watch things from there, and Byrne agreed. 
     As the SF Team was preparing to head to Alpha Bay, something occurred to Croft. He quickly got on the line to Commander Adama. "Commander, we need something extra for this mission."
     "What is it, Major?" Adama wanted to know.
     "Sir, we still don't know how good their sensors are. It'll make our job easier if there's some jamming support."
     "Adama nodded. "You'll have it, Major. Let me know when." He saw Croft nod, then Adama turned to Omega. "Begin jamming when Croft asks for it,. And get me Baltar."
     "Sir." 
     Within a centon, Baltar's face appeared on a monitor. "Yes, Adama?"
     "Baltar, we're getting ready to send a boarding party to that ship. It looks like your suggestion is about to pay off."
     "Thank you, Adama," Baltar responded. 
     "You're welcome. We'll need some jamming support to mask the shuttles' approach to the target."
     "Understood," Baltar replied. "We'll keep a  line open, and will be waiting for your call. One other thing: Orion's squadron will be ready for operations in ten centons."
     "Very well," Adama said. "Once Blue Squadron's ready, we'll begin patrolling the system. I'd like to have some eyes and ears out there in case the aliens have friends around."
     "Prudent," Baltar nodded. "Adama, have you noticed a Human life sign coming from that ship?"
     "We have," Adama said. "And one more reason to send a boarding party to the ship. There's only one possible way a Human would be on that ship."
     "A prisoner from Earth," Baltar commented. "As I said, we'll be standing by." 
     "Thank you, Baltar," Adama said, and he saw the traitor nod. Then Tigh came to him. "Yes, Colonel?" 
     "Commander, the boarding party reports they're ready to depart." 
     "Clear them to launch when ready."


     Croft and the SF Team headed to Alpha Bay. "All right: Team One and Team Three, first Mark X, Teams Two and Four, on the second. Let's go, and get it done!" The SF troopers, with Wagner accompanying Croft, headed for their assault shuttles. 
     Wagner was still wearing her BDUs, and had on her BDU cap. Though Croft had offered her a Colonial uniform, she had politely declined. "Major, if there's someone from Earth on that ship, they're likely going to freak out if they saw people in a strange uniform boarding that ship. If they see me in a uniform that's somewhat familiar, with an American flag on it, they'll be more cooperative, and less likely to panic."
     "And speaking an Earth language. I understand, Sergeant," Croft replied. He nodded to Castor, who was flying the shuttle. "Let's go."
     "Assault One requesting clearance to launch," Castor called the Bridge. 
     Rigel replied. "Coordinates transferred. Both shuttles cleared to launch."
     With that, the two shuttles flew out of Alpha Bay and went on their separate courses. 

     "How soon until our maneuvering drive is repaired?" Lemeshik thundered at his First Officer. 
     "Engineering still has no estimate, sir. Two compartments were opened to vacuum, though one has now been sealed. Another compartment is burning. The reactor restart can't occur until then," the First Officer replied. "Not to mention that repairs to the drive itself can't start until then."
     Lemeshik glared at him, then said, "Communications?" 
     "Main antennae are out. It'll take time to improvise one. But our relief isn't due here for at least..."
     "I know, three days, minimum," Lemeshik nodded. "Sensors, anything new?" 
     "No, Commander. The three ships remain in a blocking position. All weapons remain locked on us." 
     "Shields?" 
     "Still under repair." 

     "Picking up their sensor beams," Phelps, the copilot of Croft's shuttle, said.
     Croft nodded, then picked up a headset. "Croft to Galactica." 
     "Galactica here," Omega replied. 
     "Request jamming.....now." 

     "Commander," Omega said to Adama. "Major Croft's asked for the jamming."
     "Execute, and signal Baltar to do the same."
     "Yes, sir."

     On the Base Ship, Moray said to Baltar, "Galactica has sent the signal to begin jamming."
     Baltar nodded, then got out of the command chair. "Commence jamming." 
     "By your command."

     "Shut everything down but the passive scanners," Croft ordered as the other ships fired up their jammers. "We'll go in by the seat of our pants."
     "Major," said Castor, and complied. No sense in blowing out their own scanners out, this close to multiple jamming sources.

     "We're being jammed," the sensor officer said to Lemeshik, yanking a reproducer from his ear, in pain. A whine was rising on the bridge.
     "How serious?" The commander asked. 
     "Nearly total. All active sensors are affected, and even passive systems are being interfered with." As he spoke, the main screen went white.
     "Commander-" the First Officer began.
     "They're up to something," Lemeshik said. "But what?" 
     "A boarding?" 
      "I doubt it. If they wanted to board, they'd close in with one of those three ships, and lock on with grapplers. No. This is some form of psychological warfare. They're waiting to see if we'll surrender. And those Te'reans will be disappointed. 

     Both shuttles split up, and headed for their docking targets. On his Mark X, Croft noticed Wagner's expression. He could tell that she was deadly serious, and for good reason. "Nervous?" he asked her. 
     "No, Major. Just ready and focused. I want to find out who that person is on that ship," she replied.                           
"Where on Earth they're from, how long they've been gone, you know." 
     "Don't blame you at all," Croft replied. He looked out the ports, and checked the shuttle's chrono.                   
"All right. Team One with me. We secure the top deck and the Bridge. Castor, take Team Three and secure the second deck. Get to the missile magazine and secure it. We can't take a chance on somebody trying to detonate a warhead."
     "We'll get it, Major," Castor said.
      Nodding, Croft turned to Tellus. "You and Dorado, stay with the Sergeant." 
     "Yes, Major," Tellus said, while Dorado nodded. 
     "Approaching target," Castor called. "Stand by to dock." 
     Everyone checked their weapons. About half of the troopers had their usual Colonial laser carbines and pistols, but half took the Earth weapons as their primary weapons, with the MP-5 predominating. On this job, there was no need for sound suppressors, but there would be plenty of stun grenades used, and everyone had at least two, if not more. "Get ready," Croft said. 
     At the same time, the other Mark X was moving into position. Team Two would hit the Engineering spaces, while Team Four wold secure the armory and lab area. "Hit fast and hard," Croft had told them, and they were ready. "About to dock," that shuttle's pilot called. 
     On the lead shuttle, they were in position. "Extending boarding tube," Phelps called. "And deploying universal docking cowl. Ready to soft dock." 
     Croft nodded. "Let's go." He looked at Wagner. "Ready?" 
     She was gripping her HK-416. "Ready."
     The shuttle came to a stop. "We have soft dock," Phelps called.
     "Do it," Croft nodded to a trooper.
     The trooper nodded, then hooked up a pad to the airlock's external controls. He began slicing into the locking mechanism, and it didn't take long for both the exterior and interior doors to open. 
     "GO!" Croft yelled. He had an MP-5 and a Mark-23, and was first into the ship, with Wagner and her two men right behind, with the rest of the troopers following.
     At the same time, the second shuttle had docked, with both Teams Two and Four quickly getting aboard. The aliens were still at Battle Stations, and the boarders met no initial resistance. Team Four headed right for the armory, while Team Two went straight for the Engineering spaces. 

     "What's that?" Lemeshik asked, looking up from his status board, where he'd been checking repair reports. 
     "No weapons impact," the First Officer said. 
     Lemeshik nodded. Then he had his Security Officer check the ship's remaining external cameras. While most had been near gun mounts, and were therefore off-line, permanently, a few were still operating. The first image showed empty space, but then...."GODS! Prepare to repel boarders!" 
     The first officer was dumbfounded. "What?" 
     The image of what appeared to be a shuttle, docked at their deck level, appeared on the main screen.           
     "Seal off the Bridge!" Lemeshik roared.

     "So far, so good, Major," Wagner said. Team One was proceeding down the deck corridor. "Where's the Captain's Cabin?" 
     "Should be..." Croft said, then a shrill alarm interrupted him, and a strange voice in that strange alien language began shouting over the ship's PA system. A trooper with a Languatron came up to him."What is it, Trooper?"       
     "The PA's saying, 'Intruder Alert. Repel Boarders, Major." 
     "Let's get to the Bridge first," Croft ordered. "There's a security office...."
     "Major!" Wagner yelled. Then she opened fire with the HK-416 on full automatic. Two aliens armed with what looked like bullpup-type assault rifles had come out of a compartment and spotted the party, and she cut them down with a ten-round burst. They only got off a single round, which buried itself in the ceiling.
     "Thanks," Croft said. "I owe you one. Let's get to the Bridge." As on the Delta mission, he had a headset plugged into his communicator. "Team Two, status?" 
     "We're in the Engineering spaces," Two's leader replied. "No resistance. Everyone's unarmed, and we stunned them all."
     "Good work, Two," Croft said. "Contact the Galactica, and have them shut down the jamming. We'll need our portable scanners from here on." 
     "Gotcha, Major." 
     "Okay, let's go."

     "No word from Engineering," said the First Officer to Lemeshik.
     'Try again."
     "The First Officer checked his console, then looked at his CO. "Negative." Then a familiar sound came to his ear. "That's weapons fire."
     "What?"

     In the Captain's Cabin, Lemeshik's slave looked around. She had heard the alarm, then the call to repel boarders, and the gunfire. Having been a prisoner for some time, she'd picked up some of her captors' language, and she knew what the call meant. Not knowing who was boarding the ship, she had no idea if she'd be exchanging one captor for another. So she decided to find a place to lay low until it was over. 

     Team One quickly got to the Bridge hatch. The same trooper who opened the airlock plugged in his pad to the lock. He worked his pad, then nodded. "Ready when you are, Major."
     "Stunners," Croft ordered, and several troopers, along with Wagner, pulled stun grenades from their tactical vests. "Get the hatch open on my mark, then we rush the bridge."
     "Ready," Wagner said. She looked at the two troopers behind her. They nodded. 
     "Three, two, one....GO!' Croft yelled, bringing his MP-5 up. 

     The bridge hatch opened, and several stun grenades flew into the bridge. They went off, and there were screams in that strange language, as Croft led Team one into the Bridge. He saw an alien guard by the forward viewscreen, unaffected by the grenade, raise his weapon, and Croft put a pair of three-round bursts into him, dropping him at once.
     Wagner rushed in behind the Major, and saw a guard with his hands over his eyes, clearly blinded by the grenades' flash-bang effects. She kicked his weapon away, and as he staggered, the man reached for a holstered pistol. Wagner reacted immediately, putting a three-round burst into his chest, killing him. Then she saw an alien, who looked like an officer from his more elaborate uniform, reaching for something on the Captain's console. "Major!" 
     "Got him!' Croft said, and he shot the man in the shoulder, who fell away from the console.
     Tellus came in behind Wagner, and he saw another bridge guard recover from the grenades, and raise a weapon. He didn't give the alien a chance to fire, for he had an MP-5, just like the Major, and he shot the man through the head. 
     Dorado came to Wagner's right, and he saw Croft shoot the alien officer. Dorado also had an MP-5, and when he saw another guard try to raise a weapon, he didn't hesitate. The alien ate a pair of three-round bursts from his weapon, and the alien dropped to the deck, dead.
     The rest of Team One came onto the Bridge, and the remaining alien bridge crew, seeing the only armed crewmen killed, knew it was useless to resist, and they put up their hands.
     "ARE WE CLEAR?" Croft yelled.
     Wagner took a look around, and saw the other troopers coming in, and getting the alien crew onto the deck, face down. "Clear!" 
     "Good," Croft replied. He spoke into his headset. "Team Three? Castor, report."
     "Castor here, Major," Castor replied. "Deck secured and no resistance. About three dozen here, all stunned and secured." 
     "Stand by," Croft replied. "Team Four?"
     "Four here," that team's leader replied. "Armory secured. We had some trouble here, but it's secure. None of our men killed, but we've got two wounded. None life-threatening. There's eight or so of them, though, dead."
     "The lab area?" 
     "Lab secured. No one in stasis."
     "Copy," Croft said. "All teams: begin sweeping the rest of the ship. Try and take any stragglers alive if at all possible." Then he turned to Wagner. "No one in stasis."
     "Thank God," she replied. "Now, which one's the Captain?"
     Croft engaged the Languatron, and repeated the question.
     One of the aliens lying face down on the deck answered. "I am Sub-Commander Morovik. The one you shot in the shoulder is Commander Lemeshik, the commander of the vessel."
     Wagner nodded, then went over to the man, who was groaning in pain, and clutching his left shoulder as blood pooled beneath him. She turned him over with her boot, and the alien stared back at her, with unconcealed hate. Croft's Languatron translated for him as he spoke, "Who are you?"
     She put her boot on his chest, and pointed her assault rifle in his face. "Staff Sergeant Lauren Wagner, United States Air Force. Planet Earth," she hissed. "Where is the woman?"
     The alien glared back at her. "What woman?"
     Wagner kicked him in the shoulder, and he screamed. "The woman you took from Earth, you bastard!" She kicked him again, and got another scream. "WHERE IS SHE?" 
     Lemeshik stared back at her with unconcealed hate. It only validated his feeling that those who'd attacked his ship were Te'rean. Another kick, in someplace more sensitive, and a scream, followed.                      
     Then he groaned. "In my cabin."
     "What did you say?" She yelled.
     "In my cabin." 
     "Major, I need Tellus and Dorado," Wagner said.
     Croft pointed at the two troopers. "You heard her," he said, and both nodded. "Did you have to do that?" 
     "Yes, Major, I did."
     "I don't blame you at all. Go find that hostage."
     Wagner nodded. "Let's go," she told Tellus and Dorado, and the three headed for the Captain's Cabin. They didn't need long to find it, and after Wagner shot the lock, the hatch opened. They went into the Captain's office, and checked under the desk, and in a storage closet. "Nothing."
     "Must be in the suite," Tellus said. 
     "There might be company," Dorado said. "Want another stunner?"
     "Better safe than sorry," Wagner said. "Do it." She took out the nearly empty magazine, put it in her vest, and slapped a fresh clip into her weapon. Wagner then raised the rifle. "Ready."
     Tellus hit the stud on the door, and Dorado threw in a stun grenade as it opened. They heard the sound of it going off, then Tellus opened the door again. This time, all three rushed in. 
     When they got into the suite, Lauren yelled, "Anyone in here?" Then she heard a weak voice, coming from a nearly closed closet. "There," she pointed with her rifle. "Cover me."
     "We've got you," Tellus said as he raised his MP-5, and Dorado did the same. 
Wagner nodded, then slowly and carefully slid open the closet door. She didn't see anything or anyone at first, other than clothes neatly hung on their hangers, then she looked down. And a woman with cropped hair, a thin tunic, and a frightened expression looked up at her. "Hey, you'll be okay."
     "En...English? My God.. Who are you?" the hostage asked. 
     "Staff Sergeant Lauren Wagner, United States Air Force," Lauren said. 
     "Air Force...how?" 
     "It's a long story, but I'll explain everything. You're safe, and with friends," Wagner replied, giving the hostage her hand. "Who are you?"
     "Petty Officer Third Class Jessica Clemens," the woman said. "United States Navy."
"Okay," Lauren said. "Come with us, and we'll check you out. And all of your questions will be answered. Believe me, I was surprised as you are, once. Just come with us, and we'll take care of you."
     "Just as long as you get me off this ship and away from these....people," Clemens said, standing up, and her military bearing coming back. 
     "That's easy to arrange," Lauren said. She turned to Tellus. "Give me your communicator."
     He tossed it to her. "Here you go," 
     Lauren picked it up. "Wagner for Major Croft."
     "Go ahead, Sergeant," Croft replied. 
     "We have the package." Wagner said. "She needs to get checked out, and she wants off this ship. Now."
     "Get her to the shuttle, Sergeant. I'll contact Galactica, and have them get ready. The alien captain's going with you. His shoulder needs surgery, the medtech says."
     "Yes, sir," Wagner replied. "Sir, there's a lot of material in the Captain's office. We'll need to secure it, and..."
     "Already ahead of you. I'll send two troopers there, and another two will go to the ship's library. They'll want all this stuff on Galactica. Get to the shuttle."
     "On our way, Major," Lauren said, then she tossed the communicator back to Tellus. "Back to the shuttle."
     "Where are we going?" Clemens asked, surprised that her nightmare was over, just like that.
     "You'll see," Lauren said. "Anything you have that you want?"
     "All I have is bad memories. Just get me off this ship."
     "No problem, Petty Officer," Wagner said. She turned to the two troopers. "Let's go."

     The group left the cabin, and headed for the airlock. They found Croft and two troopers escorting the alien captain, and Clemens glared at him with an expression of total contempt. She looked at Lauren, then at her Mark-23 pistol. "Do you mind?"
     "You're not going to kill him," Lauren said. "We need to have a talk with him. Unfortunately."
     "No, but I want one final word with him," Clemens said. 
     Lauren understood. If her captors had been in stasis, she would've wanted the same thing. Before she blew their brains out. She nodded and drew her Mark-23. "Here."
     Clemens took the pistol, then walked up to Lemeshik. She then grabbed him, and slammed him up against the bulkhead, injured shoulder first. As he screamed, she put the barrel of the pistol beneath his chin. "Listen you bastard, and listen good. I'm not your slave any more, and I sure as hell am not your personal toy. I'm a Petty Officer in the United States Navy, damn you, and don't you forget it!" She then turned to Wagner, "Are we going home?" 
     "We are," Lauren said. "It's quite a ways off, though."
     Nodding, Clemens turned back to Lemeshik, "I'm going home, and after what you did to me, and the others, you deserve whatever punishment these people give you. If they didn't want you alive, I'd blow your brains out right now." Then she kneed him in the groin, and Lemeshik screamed. "That's for what you did to me, you son of a bitch!" She then handed Lauren the pistol. "Your weapon, Sergeant."
     "Thanks," Lauren nodded. As she holstered the pistol, she couldn't help but smile at the other woman. Damn, I bet that felt good.
     "Get this animal on that shuttle," Croft ordered. 
     "Yes, sir!" One of the troopers said, and they dragged Lemeshik onto the shuttle. 
     "Major Croft," Lauren said. "Meet Petty Officer Jessica Clemens, United States Navy."
     "Major," Clemens said, coming to attention. "Uh, what service are you?"
     "The military of the Twelve Colonies of Man, Ma'am." 
     "The what?" 
     "That's what I said," Wagner nodded. "Once." 
     "Petty Officer, don't worry," Croft said, putting a hand on her shoulder. "We'll take good care of you."
     "I know you're not from Earth-the strange name, the gear, the uniform, but thank you. Can you help the others?"
     "What?" Lauren said. "'Others?' What do you mean?" She looked at Croft. "Sir, I thought we scanned only one Human aboard."
     "We did," he looked at Clemens. 
     "Not aboard ship. There's about fifty or so of us, on a planet not far away. There's an alien colony there, and there's fifty or so people from Earth in a slave camp."
     "Holy..." Croft said. "Sergeant, get her to the Galactica. Get her to Life Center, and then report to Commander Adama. I'll notify him you're on the way."
     "Yes, sir!" Lauren said. "She turned to Clemens. "Sure you don't have anything?"
     "No. All I have is bad memories. All I want is to never see this ship-or anyone from it-ever again."
     "I know what you mean," Lauren said. "Let's go."
     "What's the 'Galactica'?" Clemens asked as they headed into the shuttle.
     "You'll see."
     While Lauren was escorting Clemens into the shuttle, and the former hostage couldn't help but stare wide-eyed at the interior of the craft and shake her head in amazement, while making sure that the alien captain was secured in his seat. Croft got on the line to the Galactica. "Croft to Galactica."
     "Go ahead Major," Omega replied. At a nod from Adama, he put it on speakers.
     "Target secured. Two casualties, non life-threatening. Shuttle on the way with wounded, the hostage, and the alien captain. You're going to want to talk to the hostage, Commander," said Croft. 
     "What do you mean, Major?" Adama came onto the line.
     "Sir, she says there's fifty or so prisoners from Earth, in a nearby system. Held in a slave camp in an alien colony."
     "Get the shuttle here, immediately," Adama ordered. 
     "On the way, sir. What about the alien prisoners?' Croft asked.
     "Stand by on that, Major," Adama said. 
     "Very well, sir."
     "We'll get back to you," Adama replied. "Galactica out." Adama then turned to both Colonel Tigh and Captain Byrne. "You heard him?"
     "Prisoners from Earth?" Tigh asked. "This gets crazier with every centon."
     "Commander, with your permission, I'd like to go meet that shuttle," Byrne said.
     "Understood, Captain," Adama said. "Go." And Byrne headed for Alpha Bay.
     "The alien prisoners?" Tigh asked.
     "Get the alien officers and put them in the Galactica's Brig. The enlisted personnel can be on the Prison  Barge for the time being." 
     "Yes, Commander."


     The shuttle undocked from the alien ship, and set course for the Galactica. As it flew, Lauren sat next to Jessica, who was looking around, wide-eyed. "If you think this is cool, wait until you see the Galactica."
     "What do you mean?" Jessica asked. 
     "Phelps, we're in visual range, right?" 
     "The shuttle pilot nodded. "We are, Sergeant. Just turned this crate around. If you want, the two of you can come up and have a look."
     Both women unbuckled themselves, and went up to the pilot. He pointed out the front window. "There she is."
     "My God..." Jessica said, laying eyes on the Colonial warship for the first time. "It looks like...like something out of a movie."
     "That's what I thought, the first time I saw her," Lauren said. "And she's still a damned impressive sight, no matter what." 
     "How many of those are there?" Jessica asked. "And what do they call it?"
     "It's called a 'Battlestar'," Lauren said. "Too bad she might be the only one left."
     "Only one? What..."
     "The folks who operate those had a lot to do with it," Lauren said, pointing at the Base Ship
     "Huh?" Jessica asked. "Holy crap!" She rasped, catching sight of the Cylon behemoth. It all seemed too much, too fast.
     "Like I said, we'll answer your questions, as best we can. I promise," Lauren told her.
     "Were you taken from Earth?" Jessica asked. 
     "I was. I'll tell you what happened," Lauren replied. "I'll explain everything, as best I can."
     Phelps turned to her. "Better get strapped back in. We're cleared to land."
     Nodding, Lauren took Jessica back to their seats. And the alien Captain sat close by, with the two troopers guarding him on either side. Both women glared at him with unconcealed contempt, and that contempt was returned. "Too bad they want you alive," Lauren said. "Otherwise, I would have let her kill you right then and there."
     The alien Captain glared at her, and at the American flag patch on her shoulder. "You are Te'rean."
     "That's what they call Earth, right?" Lauren asked Jessica.
     "How do you know that?" Clemens asked.
     "The ship they found me on had all these documents. A lot of it's been translated," Lauren said. "We know all about your planned invasion of Earth, the abductions, the war with the Ke'zar, everything."
     "Not all," the Captain sneered. "We may have lost for now, but one day, we shall regain what is rightfully ours. We will deal with the Ke'zar, and then you will return to the True Path. Your world was ours, once, and it shall be again." 
     Lauren turned red at hearing that. It was all too familiar, with what they'd found on the derelict, and those Il Fadim lunatics using the same terminology. "Captain, they only need you alive to interrogate. You say that around me again, I'll blow out one of your kneecaps, maybe both. That's not a threat: it's a promise."
     "And...My Lord," Jessica sneered at her former captor. "I wouldn't argue with someone pointing an automatic rifle in your direction."
     He glared at both of them, but said nothing more. He saw the rifle cradled in Wagner's lap, and knew that if she pulled the trigger, he would be meeting the gods a lot sooner than he expected.  
     Then the shuttle came into Alpha Landing Bay, and after it taxied to its space, Lauren got up and looked out the pilot's window. Both Drs. Salik and Cassiopeia were were there, with several medtechs, some Security guys, and one man she wasn't surprised to see: Captain Byrne. "Can we get off?" She asked Phelps. 
     "Anytime, Sergeant," Phelps replied.
     She nodded, then went back to the alien captain. "Just so we understand each other. You do anything stupid, and I will shoot you in half," Lauren said, patting her HK-416. "Do I make myself perfectly clear?" 
     The alien glared at her, but he gave a slight nod.
     "All right, pop the hatch," she told one of the troopers. 
     The hatch opened, and the two troopers got out, followed by the alien captain, then Lauren came right behind him, assault rifle at the ready. Jessica followed her, staring wide-eyed at the sights and sounds of the landing bay. 
     Sergeant Fabius, one of Castor's Security men, came over. "Sergeant, I'll take him off your hands." 
     "Good," Lauren replied. She turned to the alien. "You're going to be treated for your wounds. Which is more than you deserve."
     He glared at her, but said nothing.
     "Get him out of here," she told Fabius.
     "My pleasure," Fabius replied. 
     "Then fumigate the shuttle."
     "Will do," chuckled Fabius. He motioned to his men, and they escorted the alien to Salik's party, who laid him on a gurney, strapped him down, and took him to Decon. When they were finished there, they headed off to Life Center under guard. Then Captain Byrne came over. 
     "Sergeant," he said, putting out his hand. "Well done."
     "Thank you, sir," Lauren replied. "Sir, may I present Petty Officer Third Class Jessica Clemens, U.S. Navy." 
     Byrne came up to Jessica, who was surprised to see someone in a U.S. Navy Captain's uniform. "Sir!" She said, coming to attention and saluting. Byrne noticed the stiffness in her salute. Her arm didn't seem to want to rotate as it should.
     "Petty Officer, I'm Captain Kevin Byrne, formerly CAG on the Constellation," he said. "Welcome back." 
     "The Connie? Uh....I mean, thank you, sir," Jessica replied. "Sir, can you help the others?" 
     "We'll see about that, Petty Officer. Right now, you need to get checked out, some food inside you, and some rest. Then we can talk." He motioned to Cassie. "This is Dr. Cassiopeia. She'll take you to what they call Life Center, or we call Sick Bay, and you'll get whatever medical treatment you need. They saved my life, and they helped my daughter and Sergeant Wagner. Believe me, you'll be in good hands."
     "Your daughter...yes, sir."
     "This way, Petty Officer," Cassie said, taking her hand.
     "Please, call me Jessica," Clemens said. "I'm out of uniform."
     Cassie smiled. "Okay, Jessica, just come with me, and you'll be fine."
     "You don't need that gurney," Jessica said with a glimmer of pride. "I want to walk."
     As Cassie and the medtechs took Clemens to Life Center, and the other two wounded troopers were taken off by medtechs and sent on their way to Life Center, Byrne and Wagner were talking. "How'd it go, Sergeant?" 
     "Killed three of them," Wagner replied. "Only this time, I don't have a case of the shakes. But the animal I'm looking for...."
     "Wasn't one of them," Byrne finished for her. "Fifty others?" 
     "That's what she said, sir," Wagner said. She looked her CO right in the eye. "Sir, we're not finished with this, not by a long shot."
     "You're probably right, Sergeant," Byrne said. "At least there's new documents and other material to exploit."
     "Yes, sir," said Wagner. "There's one other thing we'll find."
     "And that is, Sergeant?" 
     "How bad those Ke'zar folks kicked these....people's asses."
     Byrne nodded. "Come on, let's get to the Bridge. Commander's waiting." A few centons later, as they came onto the Bridge, it occurred to Wagner that she was still armed, and had all of her tactical gear on, but it was too late for that. When they got onto the Bridge, they found Commander Adama and Colonel Tigh at the plot board. "Commander?" Byrne said as both saluted. 
     "Sergeant," Adama said, coming to shake her hand. "Well done."
     "Thank you, sir," Wagner said. "Forgive my appearance..."
     "You've just returned from a combat mission, and I'm not arguing with someone who's still dressed for the occasion," Adama said. "What about the prisoner?" 
     "Her name is Jessica Clemens," Wagner said. "She's a Petty Officer Third Class, U.S. Navy." 
     Adama nodded. "Anything about where she's from, when she was taken, and so on?" 
     "No, sir. She's still in shock at being released," said Wagner. "She was slack-jawed at her first sight of the Galactica, and I don't think it's sunk in just yet. It's common with POWs, or so I understand." 
     "It is," Byrne nodded. "I've met a few former POWs, Commander. That feeling's not unusual." 
     "Understood, Captain," Adama said. "Your recommendations?" 
     Byrne nodded at Wagner, who said, "Sir, she needs some rest, a few good meals, and some time to fully assimilate what's happened. But when she's ready to start talking, may I suggest we handle it like as was done with the Delta hostages?" 
     "By all means," Adama agreed. "You can start the debriefing, then we'll come in when you think she's ready." 
     "Sir, there's one more thing. We need to keep her existence quiet for the present," added Wagner. She saw Adama's expression. "Sir, those jackals at IFB. She needs quiet and privacy, not the spotlight. Not now."
     "Agreed. There'll be a news blackout on her for the time being."
     "Thank you, sir." 
     "Commander," Byrne said. "We need to get Wilker, Hummer, and their people aboard that ship. We need to start exploiting that ship's library, computer, documents..."
     "Certainly, Captain," Adama said. "First, though, Chief Twilly will go aboard with a crew and see about getting that ship repaired enough to move." He turned to Tigh. "Colonel, notify the Adelaide and the Century, as well as Captain Boomer and the Cylon Flight Leader. Bring the Fleet into the system for now." 
     "Yes, Commander."
     "We also need to get the ores from that mine to the Foundry Ship, and the Tylium," Adama reminded both officers. "And see what else we can find."
     Both Tigh and Byrne nodded. "Commander, there's something else." 
     "Captain?" 
     "Sir, Wilker can evaluate the aliens' sensors. We'll have real-time performance data, and see how they compare to ours, as well as their overall capabilities."
     "A good part of the intelligence windfall," Adama said. 


     Three centars later, the Fleet was fully in the system. Since it was highly likely that the aliens might have friends nearby, the alert status of the Fleet was maintained, and patrols were being flown around the chrono. While that was going on, cargo shuttles went from the Foundry Ship to the mine site to collect the ores, and for once, the cargo handlers were pleased that someone else had done most of the work for them. Despite the site being wrecked by whatever explosion had gone off, the crates of refined ores, rows and rows of them, were still sitting on the loading dock, waiting for a transport that never came. Once the available ores were loaded and sent off, the refinery ship sent down tanker shuttles to collect samples of the Tylium, and a survey crew to determine how much, if any, of the Tylium ore could be extracted in the time available. 
     As for the alien prize, Chief Twilly was sent aboard with a damage survey crew to determine how much work needed to be done to get the alien ship underway, while Wilker, Hummer, Pliny, and several of Pliny's students began collecting documents, and slicing into the alien computer system. To their surprise, several of the alien crew offered to help Twilly's men with the repairs, while an alien computer tech showed Hummer how to navigate the ship's system. It was the first sign that not all of the aliens shared the views that their Captain had put forth, though the other crew members were sent to the Prison Barge for the time being, while the officers were brought aboard the Galactica and housed in the Brig. 
     After this had gone smoothly, Commander Adama held a status meeting in the Ward Room on the Galactica. After bringing them up to speed, Sires Pelias and Xaviar, along with Siress Tinia and Siress Lydia were there, along with Colonel Tigh, Major Croft, Apollo, and both Captain Byrne and Sergeant Wagner. Dr. Salik was there also, while Baltar, Moray, and Commander Allen were there via com link. "All right," Adama said after giving a brief overview of the day's events, "Let's have it." He turned to Tigh. "Colonel?" 
     "Chief Twilly reports that the alien ship's condition is now stable, and repairs have begun on her auxiliary thrusters. They expect to get underway in twenty-four centars. He did say, however, that the Cylon pilots' gunnery was too good."
     "What did he mean by that?" Baltar asked, though pleasantly surprised. 
     "He said that a power relay between the maneuvering drive and the backup fusion power plant had been taken out. The aliens have the necessary parts in their stores, but it'll take time to clear wreckage and install the new relay," Tigh said. 
     "Very good, Colonel," Adama said. "The ores and the Tylium?"
     "The Foundry Ship is working the site now, and not just for ore. They're checking the wreckage to see what can be salvaged, and what's only good for scrap. The refinery ship is also there, and they're both checking the storage tanks and the Tylium ore."
     "And that takes time," Xaviar noted. 
     "It does, Sire," Adama said. He turned to Apollo. "Patrol status?" 
     "Constant, Commander," Apollo replied. "If anyone comes into the system, we'll knew about it."
     "Very well," Adama nodded. "Major?" 
     "The alien prisoners have all been transferred, except for a few who've indicated a willingness to cooperate. Mostly from their engineering staff, but there's a couple of others who are helping with Hummer's work," Croft said. "The material that can be moved is being transferred to Galactica even as we speak." 
     "What can we expect to find?" Tinia asked. "More unpleasant material?"
     "It's very likely, Siress," Adama replied. "Hopefully, we'll be able to find where their base is, and where this slave camp is as well."
     "Do you ave a rescue operation in mind, Commander?" Pelias asked. "Personally, I feel we're obligated to do so."
     "We'll need intelligence, Sire," Adama reminded him. "But, yes, despite my hopes we would never meet these people. We've crossed that barrier, and there's no going back. A rescue mission is highly likely."
     "Commander," Lydia spoke up. "Can't we talk to these people? Maybe we could trade their crew for the prisoners."
     "They may not be in a talking mood," Baltar pointed out. "Remember, they fired on our patrol without warning or provocation."
     "Quite so," Adama said. "Siress, if they are willing to talk, such a proposal will be entertained, but I have my doubts. Especially since the aliens are likely maintaining this military-religious dictatorship, and the alien captain's reaction was not very positive. He accused us of being from Earth."
     "What?" Xaviar asked. 
     "He did," Adama said, and replayed the dialogue with the alien captain. "If that view is held by their leadership..."
     "Then any diplomatic mission to them is a waste of time," Pelias noted. "We could have a repeat of the Eastern Alliance affair."
     "Or the Ziklagi," Tinia said. "Lydia, I'd like to solve this without any more loss of life, but with these people, that may not be an option."
     Lydia nodded. The last thing she wanted was to be branded as a repeat of Sire Domra's incompetence during the Eastern Alliance incident. "I understand, Tinia. I simply wanted the option laid out for discussion."
     Adama nodded understanding, as he knew some might question the need to take military action first, even if a diplomatic solution might be possible. "So noted, Siress," He turned to Dr. Salik. "And the alien captain?"
     Salik nodded. "He's resting in the Security Ward, Commander." The CMO looked at Croft. "It's been a long time since anyone's seen slugthrower wounds, but he'll recover."
     "Has he said anything?" Byrne asked.
     "No, Captain, not much. He's cooperative with medical staff, but that's it."
     "Perhaps he'll be talkative later," Adama said. "And our new passenger?"
     Salik called up an image of Petty Officer Clemens. "She's resting now, Commander. Overall, she's in better shape than one may have expected: they were keeping her alive and relatively healthy, though she is slightly underweight for her frame. She'll need a couple of procedures, though, on her shoulders."
     "Why, Doc?" Byrne asked.
     "She said that she had been tortured, and had been suspended by her bound arms on several occasions," Salik replied. "There's damage to both joints, but she should recover fully."
     Byrne and Wagner looked at each other and scowled.
     "Bastards," Allen hissed. "Doc, has she said when she wants to start talking?"
     "Not yet," but I got the impression she's getting ready to," Salik replied. 
     Adama nodded. "How serious are these procedures, Doctor?" 
     "Fairly routine, orthopedic wise. Her recovery time will be short, but if she wants to talk before the surgery, that's up to her."
     Commander Allen spoke again."Doc, has she said anything else? About the other prisoners, I mean."
     "No, Commander Allen, she hasn't. I've talked to Cassie and she's pretty confident about that. But she is very grateful to be off that ship."
     "As I would, in her place," Allen said. 
    "Doc, one other question," Wagner said.
    "Yes, Sergeant?" Salik replied. 
    "Did you run a pregnancy test? When she confronted the alien captain before getting on the shuttle, she said something that suggested she'd been used as a sex toy," Wagner said. "I don't want to know any more than that, but..."
    "Good question, even if it's an unpleasant one," Croft said. 
    "Cassie did," Salik replied. "It came back negative."
    "Thank the Lords," Tinia said. "Commander, the more we find out about these...people..."
    "The more disgusted with them we all feel," Adama finished. "All right, then. We'll have the Fleet on alert, and ready to respond if more alien ships arrive. Also, we'll start interrogating the alien officers, and see if any of them are cooperative."
     "A few of them might be," Allen ventured. "You never know."
     "Exactly, Commander Allen," Adama said. 
     "Commander, if I may?" Byrne asked. 
     "Captain?"
     "Commander, when we hold Enemy Prisoners of War, often, they don't talk to interrogators, but they're chatty amongst themselves. Often, holding cells have recording devices hidden, so that their conversations can be monitored, and recorded for playback later," Byrne said. 
     "And if they're talking amongst themselves," Xaviar said, "We may get more out of them than we would have otherwise."
     "Excellent suggestion, Captain," Adama said. "Colonel, make it so."
     "Yes, Commander," Tigh replied. 
     "We'll continue with the exploitation of the alien ship, and with the materials aboard," Adama continued. He turned to Apollo. "Maintain patrol coverage. I don't want any surprises."
     "Yes, Commander," Apollo replied. "We'll be out there."
     "Good," Adama nodded. "Colonel, tell both the foundry ship and the refinery ship to put in a maximum effort. There's no telling how much time we'll have."
     "Commander," Tigh nodded. 
    "Anything else?" Adama saw Lydia raise her hand. "Siress?" 
    "Commander...."Lydia said. "Fifty people, or more, from Earth? Where can we put them?"
    "There's room on Adelaide," Allen replied. "We've got some space."
    "And on Constellation," Byrne added, and Wagner nodded.
    "Does that answer your question, Siress?" Adama asked, and she nodded yes. "Any other comments or questions?" Heads shook no. "All right, let's get to it." And the meeting was adjourned. 


     Later that evening, Byrne headed back to Constellation, and after briefing Mr. Dante and Mr. Malik, explained things to Jena. Though shocked at what her father had told her, she was glad to have a potential new roommate, since the cabin she and Wagner shared could easily sleep up to four. Meanwhile, Wagner was staying on Galactica, waiting to see if Jessica would want to start talking. But when Lauren went to Life Center, she found that Jessica was in surgery, having consented to having the procedures done on her shoulders. So Lauren dropped by the Security Ward, where Corporal Vesper was on watch, guarding the alien captain. "Corporal," 
     "Sergeant," Vesper replied. "I wasn't expecting you, not this time of night." 
     "Just seeing how our.....guest is doing. Has he said anything?"
     "Not yet, Ma'am. He's as quiet as a shorted Cylon." 
     She looked at him through the clear cell door, then turned to Vesper. "I'll have a try." She unholstered her sidearm and placed it on the Security Desk. "Give me a few with him."
     "Yes, Ma'am," Vesper said. He opened the cell door and stayed there. "I'll be right outside if you need me."
     "Right. So....Commander, Lemeshik, isn't it?" Wagner said, pulling up the cell's only chair. "Care to start talking?"
     "Te'rean bitch! And a heretical one at that!" The alien replied.
     "Look, I don't care what, if any religion you have, or what it is, just as long as you keep it to yourselves," Wagner said. "I was one of those you took from Earth, and right now, I only have three questions for you: First, where is this slave camp? Second, were you involved in any way in taking people from Earth? And last,why were you going to invade?"
     "I will not tell you a state secret," Lemeshik replied. "Those slaves are serving their proper masters, as it should be. And in time, your world will do the same. It may take generations, but we will reclaim our world, deal finally with the Ke'zar, and your world will be ours once again."
     She rolled her eyes, then stared at him. "You're willing to inflict how much death and destruction on a world that has done nothing to your people, just for a religious crusade?" 
     "Of course!" Lemeshik said. "Your people have fallen from the True Path, no longer worshiping the proper gods. One day, it will be corrected, and your people will thank us for doing so." His expression was very smug as he said it, and Lauren knew where this was coming from. She'd taken a World War II history course while at Ramstein, and Lemeshik sounded like one of Hitler's faithful followers. 
     "You may think it's religious conversion. We call it something else: invasion, occupation, and subjugation," Wagner told him. "And we would not have gone down without a fight. And one thing we did find on the ship I was on: your own military was concerned about a weapons system Earth has that they have no counter for: the missile-firing submarine."
     "What...primitive submarines?" Lemeshik was incredulous. "Such..."
     "Oh, yes. And those submarines have enough nuclear warheads on their missiles that no anti-missile defense could stop all of them," Lauren said. "We have leaders who would be more than willing to use every weapon at our disposal to defend ourselves. Because we would have said, 'If we can't have our world, you can't, either.' And if you had succeeded in landing, we still would have fought." She grinned unkindly at him. "There's a saying in a state in my country: 'Live Free or Die.' That means we have no use for jack-booted thugs: whether Communist, Fascist, or alien."
     "You mean..."
     "We wouldn't have welcomed your invasion with open arms. Quite the opposite, in fact," Wagner told him. "And we would've waged an insurgency, and made your occupation so costly to you that eventually, you would've had to leave. Ever think of that, hmm?"
     Lemeshik was speechless. It looked to Wagner that he had never thought of such a thing. The aliens' propaganda machine must be working overtime, she thought.
     "I don't believe you! The gods have said...." 
     "Screw the gods, this is reality, buster! Get with it." Lemeshik fell silent. "Enough of that: now, were you involved in taking people from Earth?" Lauren hissed. 
     "No. I was only a cadet when that was happening," Lemeshik said, trying to look brave, but he was clearly shaken by this. "I had nothing to do with those operations."
     "You'd better hope that your service record-and they will find it, rest assured, backs that up," Wagner replied. "But you were still holding a Human woman on your ship against her will, as your personal slave. The Colonials can prosecute you for that: their law allows it."
     "What nonsense...."
     "That's right. If you want to spend the rest of your life in a cell like this, or get marooned someplace....when Commander Adama comes to talk to you, you'd better start talking. And you'd better tell the truth. Think about it, Captain...." Lauren hissed. "Vesper! I'm through here." 
     The cell door opened, and as she left, Lauren turned to face him again. "Good night, Captain. Think about what I just said." Then the cell door closed.
     "Well, Ma'am?" Vesper asked Lauren.
     "He might want to start to talk, then again, he may not. He's still pretty dedicated to their cause. That makes him a real fanatic."
     "Looks that way, Ma'am."
     Lauren nodded as she picked up and reholstered her Mark-23. "Can you find out if Commander Adama's still on the Bridge? I ought to let him know I had this little talk."
     "Sure thing, Sergeant," Vesper said. He called the Bridge. "He's still there." 
     "I'll be there shortly," said Wagner. "Could you tell him I have something he should know?" 
     "Will do." 
     "Thanks," Lauren nodded as she left the Security Ward. After she did she ran into Salik. "Doc."
     "Just who I was looking for. Petty Officer Clemens is out of surgery. She'll make a full recovery," Salik said. 
     "She's in a private room?" 
     "As Commander Adama ordered," replied Salik.
     "Doc, do you mind if I stay with her overnight? Jen did it for me, and I'd like to do it for her," Lauren asked. 
     The CMO smiled. "Only natural. I'll let Cassie know you'll be there. She's got the overnight watch. Just talk to her, and she'll take care of it." 
     "Thanks, Doc." 
     "Anytime, Sergeant," Salik nodded. 
     Lauren then went to the Bridge, and found Commander Adama there, and to her, it looked like he was about ready to go off watch. "Commander?" she asked, saluting.
     "Ah, Sergeant. You had an impromptu talk with the alien Captain, I understand?" 
     "Yes, sir. I did." 
     "And what did you find out?" Adama asked. 
     "Sir, he's pretty unapologetic about their plans to invade Earth, and keeping Petty Officer Clemens as his personal slave. I did find out the motive for the invasion: it was a religious crusade, as near as I can figure out," Lauren said. 
     "Were you expecting otherwise?"
     "No, sir. But I was hoping to hear maybe a hint of regret. He was kind of surprised when I told him that if they were thinking we would welcome their invasion with open arms, they would've been surprised at the response," Wagner said.  "Sir, I hate to bring those....people up again, but he does remind me of Laban, Galerius, and those other Il Fadim zealots." 
     "To be expected with these people, Sergeant," Adama said. "At least the senior officers. Anything else?" 
     "He says he wasn't involved with the abductions; that he was only a cadet when they were doing those. If his service record supports that, there's not much there. But he was keeping the Petty Officer as his slave, and she has been tortured, sir....."
     "Understood," Adama said. "Do you want Sire Solon involved?"
     "Sir, I think that's something for Captain Byrne to decide," Lauren said. "I'll let him know."
     "I'll leave that to the two of you, then." Adama replied. 
     "Yes, sir. There's one other thing, Commander," Wagner nodded. "He won't say where that slave camp is. To him, it's a state secret."
     "Hummer or Komma will find it, if it's in their computer data banks," Adama said. "Is that all for now?" 
     "Yes, sir," Wagner said. "I'm headed back to Life Center. I want to be there when Petty Officer Clemens wakes up. Jena did it for me, and...."
     "It's only natural you'd want to do it for her. Someone from home, and who speaks her language, will help ease her transition back to freedom," Adama finished. "Thank you, Sergeant, and good night." 
     "Thank you, sir."


     Lauren then left the Bridge, and returned to Life Center. Cassie showed her to Jessica's room, which had two beds, and she found Jessica fast asleep in hers. Lauren just kicked off her combat boots, plopped down on top of the other bed, and she was soon fast asleep. 
     The next morning, Captain Byrne came over from Constellation. Among other things, he had a bag with a change of clothes for Lauren, and some news for Jessica. He'd already gotten in touch with Jasen on the Rising Star, and ordered a set of U.S. Navy uniforms for her-payable with a couple of bottles of Langulin-as well as ordering that another bunk be installed in the cabin Jen and Lauren shared. But before he arrived....
     Lauren had awakened on her own. Must be my biological clock, she thought. She glanced over at Jessica's bed, and saw that she was still asleep. Either it was the anesthetic, or she was just plain exhausted, after all that had happened, Lauren thought. Maybe both. Lauren got up to use the room's private head when Jessica began to stir. "Hey, sleepyhead."
     Jessica opened her eyes. "Wha....oh, Lauren....what's up?" 
     "They let me stay with you overnight. How do you feel?" 
     Jessica sat up in bed, and though they were still bandaged, she worked her shoulders. "My God..... they feel like they're brand new."
     "The wonders of Colonial medicine," Lauren said. "They found a precancerous lump in one of my breasts after they found me, and they took care of it. I have another screening and some more injections to go, but I'm still clear. And they saved Captain Byrne's life: he had lung cancer when he was rescued, and it nearly killed him." 
     "What's his story?" Jessica asked.
     "Best if he explains it," Lauren replied. "They tapped him for NASA after the Navy, then a classified space mission." 
     "Oh, okay....And his daughter?"
     "He'll explain that too," said Lauren. "Want some breakfast?" 
     "Sure. Right now, I could eat a horse," Jessica said, with a hint of a laugh.
     "You won't get that," Lauren replied. "But how does some pastries, juice, and a cup of their near-coffee sound? Provided solid food's okay with the sawbones."
     "Whatever. Something good would be real nice for a change." 
     "Okay, I'll be back in a few," Lauren nodded. "And I'll see about getting some clothes for you. Because except for that gown, all you've got is that." She pointed to a bathrobe hanging from a hook next to the washroom door. 
     "Thanks," Jessica said. "Thanks very much."
     Lauren went out of the room, and when she got to the medtechs' station, Captain Byrne was there. "Good morning, sir," she said, saluting.
     "Morning, Sergeant," Byrne said. "I brought you a bag with a change of clothes." He handed her a small overnight bag. "How is she?"
     "Petty Officer Clemens just woke up, sir," Lauren replied. "Right now, she has a ton of questions, and she wants some breakfast." 
     "I'll get that for her, and for you, Sergeant," Cassie said, coming back to the station. It was almost time for her to go off shift. "Doctor Salik wants her to have something light for a day or so, then she can start getting back to normal." 
     "Okay, Cassie," Byrne said. "Sergeant, has she said anything?"
     "Not yet, sir," Lauren shook her head. "I imagine we'll talk over breakfast."
     "Okay," Byrne nodded. "I'll be on the Bridge with Commander Adama. Let us know when she's ready." 
     "Yes, sir."
      Byrne turned to leave, then said, "Oh, there's this: Jasen's going to make some new uniforms for her. And I've ordered a new bunk installed in your cabin. Jen's thrilled at having another roommate."
     "No doubt, sir," Lauren said. And so am I, she said to herself.


     While that was going on, Commander Adama had his usual light breakfast, then he discussed not only patrol roster adjustments with Apollo, but some minor Council business with Tinia and Pelias, before going to the Bridge. When he got there, he found Omega already on watch, and Colonel Tigh waiting. 
     "Good morning, Tigh," Adama nodded. "Status report, please."
     "Commander," Tigh said. "Chief Twilly reports that the alien ship should be able to get underway sometime this afternoon. The repairs are proceeding as expected, he says. Doctor Wilker's party has returned with their materials, and examination and exploitation of that is underway."
     "Excellent, Tigh. And the mine site?" Adama wanted to know. 
     "The ores have all been loaded, the foundry ship reports," the XO said. "One hundred and thirty crates in all, with a hundred and twenty-four tons of material. The refinery ship has tested the Tylium, and the quality is acceptable. The storage tanks at the mine site should be drained by this afternoon."
     "Very good, Colonel," Adama said. "Have the miners determined if any additional Tylium can be extracted?"
     "They're working on that now," said Tigh. 
     "Understood," Adama nodded. "Patrol status?"
     "Still showing the system clear," noted Tigh. "The next set of patrols launches in a centar."
     "Commander," Byrne said, saluting as he entered the Bridge. 
     "Captain," Adama said. "Have you been by Life Center?"
     "Yes, sir, I have," Byrne replied. "Petty Officer Clemens has awakened, and she's doing well, I'm told. She and Sergeant Wagner are going to share breakfast. Hopefully, she'll start to talk. The Sergeant will let us know."
     "That's good. Speaking of which," Adama said. "The Sergeant had a few words last night with the alien captain." 
     "She did?" Byrne asked, and saw Adama nod. "How did it go? I'm assuming he's still alive."
     Adama nodded. "She said he was totally unapologetic about everything. He did say that he wasn't involved in the abductions, however."
     "He was keeping the Petty Officer on his ship as a slave, Commander," Byrne pointed out. "That's accessory after the fact."
     "That's what she said. I asked her if she wanted Sire Solon involved, and she wanted that left to you."
     "Maybe we can use that as leverage against him, Commander," Byrne said. "He may start talking when he realizes the price of not doing so is either a long time in a tiny cell, or being marooned someplace."
     "An interesting possibility," Adama mused. "He did indicate that the invasion plan was motivated by a religious crusade, but he wouldn't say where the slave camp is."
     Byrne nodded. "Sir, one way or another, whether it's from him, one or more of his officers, or by Wilker and Hummer working, we'll find it. Then we can start planning on how to get those people out."
    "The sooner the better," said Adama.
    "Amen to that, Commander."


     In her room, Jessica was enjoying her first meal in freedom. The pastries reminded her of pop-tarts, and those brought back childhood memories, of how her mom would always have one in her lunch box for school. "So, Lauren, where do you call home?" 
    "Great Falls, Montana," Lauren replied. "You?"
    "Marquette, Michigan, on the Upper Peninsula," Jessica said. "Gulf War?" 
    "Was I there?" Lauren asked, and saw Jessica nod. "I was. Dhahran, as Combat Security Police. I'm in the Montana Air Guard, and I volunteered to go. I was a County Sheriff's Deputy when I was taken. You?" 
     "My rate's Helicopter Aircrewman. I'm a crew member on UH-46 helicopters. We flew from a supply ship, replenishing the carriers and other ships," Jessica said. "I spent most of the war at sea."
     "Whether you ate sand, or were out on the water," Lauren said. "We did our job." She looked at Jessica. "Jessica....I have to ask. When did they take you?"
     "I was home on leave. May 22, 1991. I was out with an old friend from high school, and on our way back, we saw this light in the sky. It came closer, then it was right over the car. The radio went out...then the engine died. We passed out, and the next thing I know, I'm strapped to a table, naked, and those, those....bastards were examining me."
     Lauren nodded. It was all too familiar. "Wait. Before I tell you my story, I have to tell you this. You've been gone a long time. That was over forty years ago, Earth time, near as we can figure."
     "My God....I've only been out of stasis for seven, maybe eight years," Jessica said. She shook her head, then went to the washroom, where she looked in the mirror. "I'm pretty young, for sixty-five," she laughed. 
     "That's what I kind of thought," Lauren said. "Sit back down, and I'll tell you my story." And Lauren explained what had happened to her. Her abduction, examination, and interrogation, before being placed in stasis, only to wake up aboard the Galactica. As well as her duties aboard Captain Byrne's ship.
     "Wow," Jessica said. "It all sounds like a bad movie come to life."
     "It does," Lauren admitted. "A bad one. Sometimes I pinch myself, because it seems like a dream, but it's not."
     "Believe me, it's not," said Jessica. "With me..."
     "Hold it," Lauren said. "I think Captain Byrne and Commander Adama need to hear this."
     "Who's Commander Adama?"
     "He's the Commanding Officer of the Galactica. And the Fleet Commander."
     "Oh, okay," Jessica said. "A fleet?" 
     "Not what you're thinking," Lauren said. "It's a refugee fleet. They fought a long and bloody war, and lost. The survivors are looking for a new home. It's not a task force or anything like that."
     Jessica nodded. 


     "I'll be back," Lauren said, then she went to the medtechs' station, where Dr. Salik was on duty. "Doc?" 
     "Sergeant," Salik nodded. "And how is Petty Officer Clemens?"
     "She's doing fine, Doc," Lauren said. "She needs some proper clothes, and I need to call the Bridge and get either Commander Adama or Captain Byrne. She's ready to talk about what happened."
     He called the Bridge on the telecom and handed it to her. "Here you go, and I'll see about getting her some clothes."
    "Thanks, Doc," Lauren said. 
    "Sergeant?" Byrne's voice came over the telecom.
    "Sir, she's ready," Lauren said. "May I suggest bringing Commander Adama along."
    "Will do, Sergeant, and we'll be there shortly." 
    "Yes, sir," Lauren replied. "Sir, do we have any photos of that....animal I'm looking for? The Petty Officer may have run into him."
    "No problem, Sergeant," Byrne said. "We've got some from the alien video files. I'll bring one."
     "Yes, sir. We'll be here," said Lauren.
     "On our way," Byrne said, then he hung up. He then turned to Commander Adama. "Commander, she's ready."
     "Very well, Captain," Adama said. He stood up from the console chair, and nodded to his Exec. "Colonel, you have the Bridge."
     "Commander," Tigh nodded. 
     "I think Sire Pelias should be there as well," Adama told Byrne. "I'll let him know."
     "Yes, sir," Byrne said. The young Sire not only maintained his interest in military matters, but also represented the interests of both the Earthers and the Zohrloch refugees on the Council. 
     On the way to Life Center, Adama and Byrne stopped by the Commander's office, and picked up a folder that Sire Solon had given the Commander. When they got to Life Center, Sire Pelias was there, waiting. "Commander,"
     "Sire," Adama said. "This might be worse than what the Sergeant told us when she was recovered."
     "With these people, Commander?" Pelias asked. "Nothing would surprise me now."
     "Quite," Adama nodded. They went in, and found Salik just coming out of Jessica's room. "Doctor," Adama said. "How is the Petty Officer, physically?" 
     "She's fine, Commander. She'll make a full recovery from her surgery, and has had both Decon and her vaccinations for Fleet Medical, and has had her first meal. I'd like to keep her for another two or three more days, just for observation," Salik replied. "Though they were feeding her enough to be relatively healthy, she's still slightly deficient in a few nutrients, and is slightly underweight for her frame. I take it she's ready to talk about her experience?"
     "She is, Doc," Byrne said. "You want to sit in?"
     "She's still my patient, Captain."
     Nodding, Adama said, "Let's go, shall we?" 
     They went into Jessica's room, and found her sitting in bed, with Sergeant Wagner in a chair, and the two had been making small talk. When Adama came into the room, Wagner came to attention. "Commander on the deck!" 
     Jessica got out of bed and came to attention, but Adama waved that aside. "As you were, both of you. Petty Officer Clemens, I'm Commander Adama," He put out his hand.
    "Sir!" She replied, taking it. 
    "You know Captain Byrne and Doctor Salik now, I trust?" he asked, and she nodded. "And this is Sire Pelias," Adama said, and the young Sire nodded politely. "He's a member of our ruling council, and has had an interest in this matter, ever since we rescued Sergeant Wagner."
     "Uh, yes, sir," Clemens replied, and to Byrne, she seemed very nervous. To her, Adama was the equivalent of an Admiral, and how many of those had she seen in her Navy service? 
     "Let's make this as informal as possible," Adama said. "It's best for you, and for us. May we just call you 'Jessica'?" 
     "Yes, sir," she said. "I'm still out of uniform."
     Byrne had a chuckle at that. "All right, Jessica, let's get started. Where are you from?"
     "Marquette, Michigan. It's on the Upper Peninsula."
     Byrne had a pad showing a map of the U.S.. He zoomed in the area. "Near K.I. Sawyer Air Force Base."
     "Yes, sir. B-52s were there," She replied. 
     "Strategic bombers, Commander," Byrne said. "With nuclear gravity bombs, air-launched cruise missiles, and short-range attack missiles." 
     "This base is on the aliens' target list?" Adama wanted to know.
     "It is, Commander," Byrne replied. "Go ahead, Jessica. Where were you taken from?"
      "Not far from there," she said. "I was home on leave. I'm a...or I was, a helicopter aircrewman on UH-46s and I was home from the Gulf War. It was Tuesday, May 22, 1991, and I was out driving with a friend from school. We'd been to dinner and a movie, and we were on our way back home. There was this light in the sky, and it got closer. The light was blinding, and all of a sudden, the engine, lights, and radio died on the car. We passed out, and the next thing I know, I'm naked, strapped to a table, and those...those...bastards were examining me."
     It was a familiar story, knowing what had happened to Wagner. "Jessica, did they interrogate you?" Byrne asked. 
     "Yes, sir, they did. They wanted to know all about the air base. I told them I'm not in the Air Force, I'm not stationed there, the only time I've ever been on base was for an air show, that sort of thing," Jessica said. 
     "Did they believe you?" Sire Pelias asked. 
     "I guess so, eventually....Sire, isn't it?" Jessica replied. When he nodded, she continued. "But they showed me my Navy ID, and wanted to know where I was based. I knew they didn't have anyone's best interests at heart, and so I just went into prisoner-of-war mode. I remembered my survival training, and that kicked in."
     "Name, rank, and serial number," Byrne nodded. He, too, remembered his own POW training. "What then?"  
     "They didn't like it, so they came in and put a mask over my face. I passed out, and the next thing I remember is waking up, on a table. They gave me some kind of sleeveless gown to wear, cuffed my hands in front of me, led me by a chain on the handcuffs, and walked me outside the ship."
     "You were landed by now, correct?" Adama asked.
     "Yes, sir," Jessica said. "I knew I was on another planet. There were two suns in the sky, and it looked like a very large airport, but there were all these ships. Some were parked, some were taking off or landing, and there were two moons in the sky." She paused, took a drink of water, then went on. "They put me in a vehicle, sort of like a six-wheeled van, and drove me to what I guess was a prison. They took me inside, took the gown away, and put me in a room. I was cuffed to a chair, and sat for a while. How long, I don't know. Then this....man comes in, big guy, muscular, and he had a scar on the left side of his face. I called him 'Scarface.' He told me to answer the questions I was asked, and I said no. Then he smiled." They could all see the anger in her eyes, and the fury at her humiliation.
     Byrne and Wagner looked at each other. Then he pulled out a photo from the folder brought from Adama's office. "Is this him?"
     Jessica looked at the vidcap from the alien video of Wagner's interrogation. "It's him. Where'd you get this, sir, if you don't mind my asking?"
     "They recorded my exam and interrogation," Wagner said. "Jessica, they tortured me, and this animal was the one who did it."
    "Glad to know I wasn't the only one," Jessica said, stifling a tear. "Sorry. That didn't come out the way I meant it. Then it started. He used this prod, shocking me with it, then he cuffed my hands behind me, put a chain on the cuffs, and pulled. He hung me from the ceiling several times, for how long, I have no idea. And he'd use that prod as well, when he wasn't just beating me. I passed out several times, but they gave me shots of something, to bring me around for more. Finally, I just couldn't take the pain any longer, and said I'd answer."
     "What did you tell them?" Byrne asked. 
     "I told him I was stationed at NAS Norfolk in Virginia-that's one of our states, Commander, and he went away for a while. The bastard left me hanging while he left, and he came back with another one, with a portable computer, and they showed me pictures of the base. I could see where my squadron had its hangars, and the parked helicopters on the ramp. They didn't let me down until they were satisfied, sir." She looked at Byrne with tears in her eyes. "Sir, I told them pretty much everything I knew."
     "Not your fault, Jessica," Byrne said. He remembered talking with POWs who'd been in either Hanoi or Baghdad, as well as seeing Saddam Hussein's torture cells after the fall of Baghdad. Some things in the universe were constants, it seemed. "Everyone has their own breaking point. You reached yours."
     "I know, sir,' Jessica replied. "But I felt pretty lonely then. Like I'd, I'd betrayed my country. My shipmates.....Then, after they were finished, they took me, gave me some kind of robe, and threw me into a cell. Then I heard voices in English. There were other prisoners there."
     "How many?" Adama asked. 
     "On that floor, sir?' Jessica asked, and Adama nodded. "About two dozen, I'm guessing. Not all English speakers, but most were. A dozen or so Americans, a few Canadians and British, a couple of Australians,and a New Zealander. There were a few talking in other languages: French, German, Spanish, Russian, Chinese or Japanese. Arabic, too, I think." 
     "So you could talk under the cell doors?" Byrne asked. 
     "Yes, sir," said Jessica. "I said who I was, and told them what had happened to me. They said, 'join the club.' And there was one who I didn't see then, but his voice signaled authority and respect. He said he was a British Army officer, and said to hang tough, and we'd all get through this." 
     Wagner was listening intently. Now she knew what she would have gone through, had she reached the aliens' home planet. And her fury at the interrogator-and anyone involved in the abductions, was growing as a result. "One tough fellow," she said, thinking of whoever this Brit was.
     "Indeed," Adama said. "Please, Jessica, go on." 
     "Yes, sir. They fed us, if you could call that tasteless slop food, took us to the head, and every few days, you could take a shower. I was there, for, well, I don't know for sure, but it was almost a year. Then they took us out and cuffed us, chain gang style, and marched us out. They put us in a vehicle, sort of like a large cargo truck, and drove us to the...the..."
     "Spaceport?" Pelias asked. 
     "I guess you could call it that," Jessica nodded. "And I saw another two dozen or so prisoners. All people like us, and I saw my friend Denise." 
     "Your friend from the car?' Byrne asked, and she nodded. 
     "I called to her, but the guard gave me a nasty slap on the face, and told me to shut up. Anyway, they took us to a ship, maybe twice as big as the one you found me on, and one by one, we were loaded aboard. They took me to a compartment, made me take off my clothes, and there were these tubes, with this vapor going through them. I said no, but they put a mask over my face, and I passed out again," Jessica said. 
      "Were they rushed, Jessica? Or was the process orderly?" Adama asked. 
     "They were pretty orderly, Commander," replied Jessica. "They didn't seem to be in a hurry at all. I got the feeling they'd done this a lot. The next thing I know, I'm waking up. They didn't let us have any clothes, they cuffed us again, chain gang style, and the ship was landed, because we went down a ramp. It was another spaceport....but not as well developed as the other one."
     "What kind of world was it?" Sire Pelias asked. 
      "I don't know, but it had two suns in the sky; one like Earth's, the other a lot smaller, and kind of redder. And there was the outline of a moon in the sky as well. It seemed like it was high noon, being so bright." 
     "Was there a town nearby?" Lauren asked. 
     "There was. They marched us through it, and the townspeople weren't happy to see us. They had banners over the streets, posters on the walls, placards, that sort of thing," Jessica remembered.
     "Was this town recently built?" Adama wanted to know. 
     "No, sir. It looked as if it had been there for a while. The streets were paved, they had everything: water, power, sewers, everything," Jessica said. "They marched us through town, then on the other side, there was the camp. I think there may have been a large lake, or the ocean, nearby, though I never saw any."
     "How so?" 
     "Commander, I'm a sailor. I know the smell of the sea. Even on another planet."
     "What then?"
     "They hosed us off with a fire hose, gave us clothes, put us in the barracks, and the next day, they said, 'You Te'reans are going to work.' There was a farm, with orchards, row crops, and livestock, a carpenter's shop, that sort of thing. I worked on the farm and in the kitchen, mostly. But they had us working in town, too. Street-sweeping, garbage pickup, you know, the dirty jobs. Then one day, a year ago, that Lemeshik bastard came by, and he 'inspected' several of the women. He picked me, and told me I was going to be his personal slave. I've been on that ship ever since, until yesterday," Jessica said.
     "Have you been back since?" Lauren asked. 
      "Once. He went back, and I went with him. Everyone's still there, with a twist." 
      "What's that?"
      "Two of the women had babies. And two more were pregnant," Jessica said. I managed to talk with one of my barracks mates: Anna Popova. She had been a nurse in the Soviet Air Force when she was taken, about the same time I was. Anyway, she told me that the aliens wanted the women to have babies. There's several common-law couples now, and they were being encouraged to have kids." 
     "What?" Salik asked, speaking for the first time. "What do you mean by that?"
     "Doc, they want more workers. It's as simple as that. The women who have kids get more food, and easier work schedules. They did tell us one thing constantly, though." Jessica said. 
     "And what was that?" Adama asked. 
     "Commander, they said that Earth, or Te'rea, as they call it, was theirs once, and it would be again. And we'd thank them for coming." 
     "Figures," Lauren said. "That fits with what Lemeshik told me last night. They must really believe it." 
     "Yeah," Byrne said. "Jessica, anything else for now?"
     "Sir, that place can be somewhat okay at times, and at others, it can be brutal. I remember one guard, who looked the other way when we brought extra vegetables and fruit from the farm, and another would slip us extra bits of food. Don't know why, and never knew their names. Mostly, though, they either ignored us, or beat us for the hell of it. That 'Scarface' guy? He's the Camp Commandant, and he sometimes picks people at random for his....fun," Jessica said. She closed her eyes, shaking her head at the memories. No details were necessary. "Sir, can you get them out?" 
     "We're going to see about doing just that," Adama said. 
     Byrne nodded. "Jessica, think of this as an electronic notepad." He handed her another pad with a stylus. "Can you draw us a map of the camp, show us everything?"
     "Oh, yes, sir!" Jessica said. 
     "Good. And write down every detail you can, no matter how trivial, and a list of names of the prisoners. And not just about the camp, but the town as well, and the system: how many planets, that sort of thing. It'll help us nail down the location."
     "Aye, aye, sir," said Jessica.
     "Very good. We'll leave you to that, and Sergeant Wagner will be back shortly," Adama said. 
     "Thank you, Commander."
     "Is there anything you need right now?" Salik asked. 
     "Doc, I still need those clothes." 
     "No problem. We'll get those for you." 
      "Thanks, Doc," Jessica said. "After you're through with me, what then?' 
      "You'll be with us aboard my ship," Byrne said. "I've got a daughter you'd like to meet, and the three of you will be cabin mates. And we'll find you a job aboard ship, since you're back in the Navy." 
     Jessica smiled for the first time since she was rescued. "Sir, do you mind?" Byrne looked at her, then she got up and hugged him. "Thank you, sir.!" 
     

      After leaving Jessica's room, Adama asked, "Comments?" 
     "Commander," Wagner said. "Now I know what was in store for me, Only they would've sent me to that prison planet. And we know that the....scum I'm looking for is still around, and up to no good." 
     "Indeed, Sergeant," Sire Pelias noted. "We also have a description of the system where this camp is located: it's a binary system, and hopefully, within scanner, or at least patrol, range."
     "Very much so, Sire," Adama nodded. "I'll have Wilker's people start going into the aliens' navigation charts and files. Any information on this camp is priority, as of now." 
     "Commander," Byrne added. "Doc, we'd best start prepping for fifty or so more people. Including kids." 
     "I'll start preparing my staff," Salik nodded. "We'll be ready for them, when they do arrive."
     "Very good, Doctor," Adama said. "Now, I'd like to meet this....Lemeshik."
     "This way, Commander," Salik said.  Salik led Adama, Byrne, Pelias, and Wagner to the Security Ward, where Corporal Sebius was on duty. "He's all yours, Commander," Salik said, returning to his station.
     "Sir!" Sebius said, saluting and coming to attention. 
     "As you were, Corporal," Adama nodded. He signed in, went into the ward, and at a nod, the cell door opened. "Commander Lemeshik, we meet again." 
     "Commander..." Lemeshik hissed. "I see you have the Te'rean woman, and another one of them...." He looked at them with unconcealed contempt. "I demand that you release me, my crew, and my ship, at once." 
     "You are hardly in a position to demand anything," Adama reminded him. "Your vessel fired on our patrol without warning or provocation. The engagement was totally avoidable." 
     "Perhaps. And yet, you are Te'rean, or descended from them. I do not treat with inferiors and heretics." 
     "Commander," Adama said, keeping his composure. "You're quite wrong as to where we are from. Granted, we do have some people from Earth with us, but they are on their way home. We, however, come from a star system with twelve worlds and three suns. Twelve worlds which had a technology and science well in advance of your own, I might add. A society with arts and culture, and yet, an implacable enemy that we fought a bloody conflict for over a millennium.  And we lost." 
     "And so..." Lemeshik sneered. "You are looking for Te'rea. One day, that world will be ours once again. As the gods decree." 
     "Commander, may I?" Wagner asked. 
     "Sergeant," Adama said. 
      Lemeshik glared at her with contempt. It was obvious that he had no use for her, even though she had her boot on his chest and an assault rifle pointed in his face.....
    "Look, Commander...." Wagner said. "You just answered two of my questions last night. You didn't abduct anyone from Earth, and you did say why you were going to invade." She paused, then said, "I'll ask this again: where is the slave camp?" 
     "That is a state secret, and I have no intention of telling any of you that information," Lemeshik replied. "As for that slave, I gave her a better life than in that camp." 
     "She was still being held against her will," Lauren pointed out. "And you were using her as a sex toy. We call that rape. Along with kidnapping, false imprisonment, torture, and who knows what else she'll tell us? Like I said: want to spend the rest of your days in a cell like this one? You'd better drop the act and start talking."
     "I have nothing else to say to you," he responded. "As far as I am concerned, you are all apostates!"
      "You'd better be glad I was there," Wagner said, getting into his face. "Because if I hadn't, the raiding party might have let her kill you." She saw his eyes go wide. "Yeah. You're alive because I kept her from blowing your brains out. Such as they are. And she would've been perfectly justified in doing just that. So, I'll ask again. Where is the camp?"
       Lemeshik stared at her. By the gods, do I owe my life to this...this, Te'rean heretic? That thought crossed his mind. Not to mention the likely Proceedings that he would face when he returned. "Again, I have nothing to say." 
      "Okay, fine with me. But we'll talk to your officers, and chances are, they know where it is. Or we'll get it from your ship's data banks. We'll find it, one way or another. And those people will soon be on their way home." Wagner got into his face again. "Where they belong. And you might just find yourself headed there as well. Life stuck in a cell on a Prison Barge....Or being marooned on some nasty world.  I'd think long and hard about that, Commander....." 
     "The Sergeant is quite right," Adama said. "I suggest that you consider what she has said, and that when I return, your mood is more.....conversational, shall we say?" 
      "And think about this," Byrne said, speaking for the first time. "We'll find out. One way or another. We don't torture, which is more than we can say about your people, but we'll talk to your officers, and chances are, one or two of them might talk. Even if they don't, the documents in your office, material on your ship's computer, and the navigator's charts. We'll find it. Because our specialists never close. Never. Have a good day, Captain...."
     Ah ha!
      Adama nodded. "Until next time, Commander," he said, then the party left the ward. "That was a little more aggressive than I would have preferred, Captain," Adama said. "But I can't argue with what you did tell him."
     "Sooner or later, Commander"' Byrne said. "He'll drop the act and start talking." 
      "I can't believe his feeling that he gave the Petty Officer a better life," Pelias noted. 
      "Not unusual, Sire," said Byrne. "There are kidnapping cases on Earth where the victim was held for many yahrens, and the perpetrators, when caught, said the same thing. With him, though, he's clearly mouthing the Party line, and he's also unrepentant. People like him think they've done nothing wrong, and the state can do no wrong." 
     "Like one of Hitler's SS men, Sir?" Wagner asked. 
     "Exactly, Sergeant. The old  'I was only following orders,' defense," Byrne said. "Commander, maybe we should work on his officers, and come back later and try again. If some of them talk, we can use that against him." 
      "I agree," Adama said. "As per your suggestion, their cells have recording devices installed, and Sarah is listening. With her experience, she may pick up things that we may not." 
      "An interesting way of putting it, Commander." Pelias said. 
      "I noticed something else, too, Commander. Both when Sergeant Wagner, than I, mentioned the ship's data banks. Something in his eye. He's afraid of something."
      "Something in those records?" asked Adama.
      "Yes, sir. He hid it well, but it definitely struck a nerve."
      "I see. I shall have the technicians try and speed things up there."
     "Thank you, sir," Byrne said. 
     "Commander," Wagner said. "If I may? 
     "Sergeant?" Adama nodded. 
     "Try talking to the First Officer. He pointed the Captain out to us on the bridge. And Sir, If you don't need me for anything else right now..."
     "I understand, Sergeant," nodded Adama. "Go back and be with the Petty Officer. We'll have a talk with the First Officer, as you suggested." 
     "Yes, Sir." She saluted and left.


     Adama, Byrne, and Sire Pelias went to the Brig, and they found Tellus on duty, watching the alien officers. "Commander!" he saluted.
     "Sergeant," Adama nodded. "As you were. We'd like to talk to the aliens' First Officer." 
     "Yes, sir. Sub-Commander Morovik. He's in cell number two. This way, please." Tellus escorted the trio to the cell, and found the alien officer sitting on the bunk. "I'll be outside, sirs." 
     The cell door opened, and the alien rose. "You are Commander Adama?"
     "I am," Adama said. "This is Captain Byrne, from Earth, and Sire Pelias, from our ruling council." 
     Morovik nodded politely. It was clear to the trio that this alien was of a different temperament than his Captain. "So, a Te'rean," he said, nodding at Byrne. "You are the first I have met. As an equal, of course." 
     "It's better that you talk to us, Sub-Commander," Byrne said. "Or you can talk to the woman when we're finished."
     "Ah, yes. The woman who was pointing a weapon in Lemeshik's face," Morovik nodded. "I almost wish she had killed him."
     Adama, Byrne, and Pelias looked at each other. "And why is that?" Adama asked. 
     "He has blackmailed, extorted, and even assassinated his way through the ranks. Oh, his family has served the state for generations, and is justly proud of its service, but his methods...." Morovik spat with disgust. "He dishonors both his office, and the uniform he wears."
     "So he didn't just advance on his abilities," Pelias said. 
     "That is correct, uh...Sire?" Pelias nodded. "Sire." Morovik nodded back. "A disgrace to all those who have worked their way through the ranks by their own sweat and effort. But, alas, there is not much one can do about it, and he is not the only one."
     Pelias reflected for a moment that some things are the same everywhere. His own family had traded on it's "nobility" and antiquity for generations, to get ahead in society, and stay there to enjoy it. His own uncle, the late Sire Feo...
      Adama nodded. "Perhaps that can be a topic for another time, Sub-Commander. We are here to discuss the slave camp." 
     "Ah, yes. I cannot tell you where it is, but..." 
      "Yes?" 
      "Perhaps if you examine the navigation charts, and other documents that are in the Captain's Cabin, you may find what you seek," Morovik said, his voice lowered. "I regret I cannot help you any further. The Security Officer, even in this situation, is watching." 
      "He's military?" Byrne asked. 
      "No. He reports to the General State Security Department. A feared, but respected, arm of the state." 
      "I see.." Adama nodded. 
      "One other thing, Commander, if I may?" Byrne asked. 
      "Captain," Adama motioned to him. 
      "Sub-Commander," Byrne said, getting into his face. "Did you have any.....contact, as one might say, with Petty Officer Clemens?" 
     "The Captain's slave?" Morovik asked. 
     "Yes." 
      "No. The Captain indicated to the officers and the crew that she was his, and his alone. No one was allowed any contact with her, unless it was of a professional nature, such as bringing her food. The penalty for such unauthorized contact, whether it was intimate or otherwise, was death," Morovik said.    "And he personally executed a junior officer who indicated that he might attempt a...liaison with her, sometime last year." 
     "Possessive bastard," Byrne commented, and Adama and Pelias nodded. 
      "Did you have any...concerns about her in any way?" Byrne asked. 
      "No, Captain. I did not. Though I did find it unusual that she was aboard a military vessel, instead of in the camp," said Morovik. "It's unheard of."
     "One last question, Sub-Commander. Did you ever go on any missions to Earth?" Byrne asked. "Because if you did..."
     "No. I was only a cadet, and a junior one at that," Morovik said. "The only contact with Te'reans I have had, other than the Captain's slave, has been at the slave camp." 
      "And your....thoughts on that matter?" Adama asked. 
      "Commander, the priests say that the gods have decreed that we return to that world, and make it ours once again. Whether or not we fulfill that decree is another issue entirely," Morovik said. "While one wants to regain our home planet, and extract revenge from the Ke'zar, recreating an empire that existed several millennia ago is something that may be beyond our means. However the state has decreed it to be a goal, and so..." 
      Adama nodded, then glanced at Byrne and Sire Pelias. "I see...in any event, Sub-Commander, we have no intention of keeping you and your crew any longer than is necessary. You will be well treated, and provided you have committed no crimes against any Humans, when this incident is resolved, you and your crew will be returned." 
      "Thank you, Commander," Morovik said, giving a polite nod. 
      "Tellus," Adama said, and the cell door opened. "We may speak again, Sub-Commander." He nodded as the trio left, and turned to Tellus. "Which one is the Security Officer?" 
      "He's at the far end, Commander. We isolated him from the others, because he was being pretty disruptive, shouting a lot, and just being a complete boray's astrum. Near as I can understand, he keeps going on and on about loyalty to the state, and the will of the gods, and 'sacred destiny', and stuff like that. He finally piped down about a centar ago."
     "Thank you, Tellus," Adama said. "We may have to have a chat with him as well, even so." 
      "Commander, that may be a waste of time. He's probably so dedicated, the Captain would pale in comparison to him," Byrne said. 
      "I agree, Commander," Pelias said. 
      Then the telecom buzzed, and Tellus picked it up. "Brig. Yes, he's right here. Commander, for you, Sir. It's Doctor Wilker." 
      Adama picked up the Telecom. "Yes, Doctor?" 
     "Commander, we've got something for you. Can you come to the lab?" Wilker asked. 
      "On the way, Doctor." 
      "Commander?" Pelias asked. 
      "Wilker's got something." 


     

      The trio headed to Wilker's lab, and when they got there, they found Galactica's Chief Science Officer and his techs busy with the alien data and documents. Wilker and Hummer were working at a terminal when Adama tapped him on the shoulder. "Doctor?" 
      "Oh, sorry, Commander," Wilker said. "We've been pretty busy." 
      "You said you've found something?" 
      "Yes, Commander." Wilker nodded. "Hummer, show the Commander what we've found." 
      Hummer nodded, then called up the data. "This is from the aliens' navigational database. It shows all the nearby star systems within twenty-five light-yahrens. We've taken some deep scan sweeps, along with patrol data from both ourselves and the BaseShip, and matched them with these. This is definitely a chart of this sector, Commander." 
      The computer screen showed a dozen star systems, and the system they were currently in was at the center. "Good work, Technician," Adama said. "Can you filter out star types?" 
      "Oh, yes, Sir," Hummer said. "Anything in particular you're looking for?" 
      "Binary star systems. One with a yellow main sequence star and a red dwarf companion." Adama said. 
     "One moment, sir," Hummer said, typing in the request. "Here, sir. Two systems match that configuration." 
      "All right," Adama decided. "Get all of that scanned and into our database, so we can determine range data. Doctor?" 
      "Yes, Commander?" Wilker asked. 
      "Top priority is finding that slave camp. It's got to be in one of those systems. Check all of the documents in the Captain's office, and probably his database as well." Adama told the scientist. 
      "We'll find it, Commander. As soon as we have it, you'll be the first to know." 
      "Thank you, Doctor." 


     In her room, Jessica was marveling at how fast her shoulders were healing. "My God, Lauren. Back home, this would take weeks to heal. The pain is virtually gone." She shrugged, then rotated her shoulders and neck. "Wow. Feels great. Like new." 
     "It would," Lauren said. "Here, it's days, not weeks. Even less, depending on what it is. And they keep time differently than we do." She explained the Colonial time system.
      "It'll take getting used to," Jessica admitted. "But if you did, I can." 
     "And the others, when we get them," Lauren said. She looked over Jessica's written account. "There but for the grace of God go I..." 
      "You're lucky, Lauren. All they did was put you in a tube. The rest of us....felt like we were on an alien chain gang at times. And they did do that, a few times."
      "For what?"
      "Working on the side of a road. Picking up garbage, or working on a drainage ditch, things like that." Jessica said. "Believe it or not, we actually were glad to be working outside the camp, at times. Anything to do beyond the wire." 
      "Anyone ever escape?" Lauren asked. 
      "Where to?" Jessica asked. "No way off the planet, so where would anyone go?" 
      "I understand," replied Lauren. "Anyone resisting?" 
      "Resisting, no. Collaborating, no. Everyone's more in a survival mode. And some have pretty much accepted they're going to live the rest of their lives there." Jessica said. "But most people? There's still hope that someone will come for them." 
      "And somebody will," Lauren promised her. "And you and I have some unfinished business." 
     "What do you mean by that?" 
     "Scarface. I want him dead." Lauren reminded her. 
     "So do I," Jessica said. 
     They shook hands on that. 
      "How about the locals? What's their reaction to having you around?" Lauren asked. 
      "Mixed. Some wouldn't have anything to do with us, some seemed genuinely sorry, while one of their priests would come by every few days, and try to get people to convert to their religion, whatever it is. He didn't have any luck, but we did admire his persistence," Jessica said. "The rest seem pretty nonchalant about us." 
      Lauren nodded. "Not like Nazi Germany, where villagers denied knowing about concentration camps, even when you could smell the stench from a ways off." 
      "That's about right," Jessica nodded. "There's one thing I just thought of." 
      "What is it?" 
      "Would Adama let me go along when you hit the camp? You do need a guide." Jessica said. 
      "I doubt it. You're still recovering from that surgery, and you've only just been freed." Lauren reminded her. "But....you'll be involved in pre-mission prep."
      "Okay..." Jessica said. "It's just....well....Whatever I can do to help." 
      "I know," Lauren said. "If you had come for me, I'd be feeling the same way." And the two hugged.


     In her office, Sarah, aka Niizaka of Ziklag, was examining the transcripts of the aliens' conversations in their cells, as well as actually listening to the recordings. Their oral language was nothing like she'd ever heard before, in her travels as the late Xekash's slave. She shook her head as she got up to stretch her legs, and looked around her office. Not that many in the Fleet had a private library such as hers: to maintain her cover as an academician, she had a number of reference books that were "on loan" from the Galactica's own library. Then one of her assistants, who also worked for Pliny at times, came over to her with some fresh transcripts. "Yes?"
      "Ma'am, you're going to want to see this." He handed her the new documents. 
      She perused the document, then looked at the man. "You are sure about this?"
      "Absolutely, Ma'am!" He replied. 
      She reached for a Telecom. "Bridge, this is Academician Sarah. Is Commander Adama there?
     "He's on his way back," Athena said. 
     "Can you tell him that I am on my way? I have something that he needs to see."
     "Will do," Athena replied. 

     When he got to the Bridge, Commander Adama started to discuss events with Colonel Tigh and Captain Byrne, when Omega called to him. "Commander, message from Chief Twilly."
     "Give it to me here," Adama said. 
     "Commander,' Omega replied. Then Twilly's face appeared on a monitor.
     "Chief?" Adama asked. "What have you got?"
      "Commander, we've restored this ship's main maneuver drive. She can keep up with the Fleet for now. Barely, but she can move."
      "Stand by, Chief," Adama said. "Comments?"
      "Commander, Academician Sarah's on her way," Athena said. "She said she has something that you need to see."
      "Very well," Adama said. He turned back to the monitor. "Chief, get that ship moving. Omega will give you a position in formation."
      "Yes, sir!" Twilly replied. Just as he signed off, Sarah came onto the Bridge, and Adama turned to her with a questioning look.
      "Commander, you really need to see these." She handed him the transcripts. 
      "You are sure about the translation?" He asked. 
      "Pliny's staff are sure of it, Commander. It's been run through the translation matrix several times. And according to the voice stress analyzer, they're pretty smug about it."
     "Commander?" Tigh asked. "What is it?"
     "We may have a visitor in two days." Adama said. 
     "Two of the alien officers mentioned a ship, due to arrive in two days, their time. That works out to three, Colonial Standard. They didn't say what kind of ship," Sarah said. "My apologies, Commander."
     "No apology necessary," Adama said. "Thank you, Sarah. If anything else develops..."
     "Commander, you will be informed at once," Sarah replied as she headed back to her office.
     Adama nodded, then turned to Omega. "Get me Doctor Wilker."
     "Sir," Omega said.
      Within a centon, the scientist's face appeared on a monitor. "Commander?" 
     "Doctor," Adama said. "Is there anything in the Captain's documents about another ship arriving?" 
     "We've found his mission orders, Commander. That document's not yet finished." 
      "How soon?" 
      "Not long, Commander, and we may have a location for the slave camp."
      "Excellent!" How soon can you have a briefing ready?
      "Three or four centars, Commander. The information's flowing fast and furious," Wilker replied. 
       Adama looked at Tigh and Byrne. "Can you have a briefing ready for 1600?" 
      The scientist thought for a centon. "Yes, Commander. We can be ready by that time."
      "Very well, have it ready by 1600," Adama ordered. 
      "Commander," Wilker replied, then the screen went blank.
      "Colonel, have the principals meet in the Ward Room at 1600," Adama said. "And have Baltar, Moray, and Commander Allen present by com line."
     "Yes, Commander," Tigh nodded. 


       Soon, the Ward Room was filled as Commander Adama, Colonel Tigh, Major Croft, Captain Byrne, Sergeant Wagner, and Sires Pelias and Xaviar, and Siress Tinia gathered around the table, along with Sarah, both Doctors Salik and Wilker. Apollo and Boomer were there, representing the fighter pilots, and as usual, Baltar, Moray, Orion, and Commander Allen were there via com links. 
     All right," Adama began, "we have information on the slave camp, and on the alien vessel, but there is a potential problem developing, as both Academician Sarah and Doctor Wilker will show us. First, though, our new passenger." He nodded to Captain Byrne. "Captain?" 
     "Everyone," Byrne said. "Our freed hostage is Petty Officer Jessica Clemens, United States Navy. He put up a holo image of her, from Salik's examination. "She was abducted about a year prior to Sergeant Wagner, and very close to what was at the time an active strategic bomber base." 
      "More intelligence gathering?" Apollo asked. 
     " That's what they were up to, Captain," Byrne replied. "However, she could not answer their questions about the air base, for not only was she not stationed there, but it's an Air Force installation, not a Navy one. When asked about her actual duty station, she refused to answer. So they put her in stasis, and shipped her-along with a companion who was in her vehicle at the time of the abduction-to the home planet. She was interrogated by the same individual who tortured the Sergeant, and quite brutally, I might add." Byrne then put up a holo image of the alien Clemens had called 'Scarface.'
     "This is the same one, Sergeant?" Xaviar asked, and everyone saw Wagner nod.
     "After she broke, and gave them everything she knew," Byrne continued, "she was tossed into a cell in the interrogation center, and was held with two dozen or so other abductees. After about a yahren in captivity, she and the others-and there were, again, about two dozen, or more, taken to a spaceport, and put back into stasis. They were revived about six yahrens ago, and landed at an alien colony world. She mentioned the world as having a single moon, with a yellow star similar to Earth's own sun, and a red dwarf companion. They were all taken to a camp, and put to work as slave labor. A yahren ago, the
alien captain visited the camp, and selected her as his personal slave. She has been on the ship since, until the battle yesterday." 
     "Any indication as to where the camp is?" Croft asked. "Anything to start mission planning." 
     "It's in a binary star system, with a yellow star and a red dwarf companion, with a single moon. As for the location on planet, she indicated it's close to a lake or a seashore, Major," Wagner said. "There's something else," she said, looking at her CO, who nodded. Byrne knew what it was that she would say. 
     "That is?" Tigh asked. 
     "She told us that the aliens are encouraging the women to get pregnant. Holding out incentives like more food, or more heat in the barracks. Two of them had already had babies, and two more were pregnant at the time she left. The aliens want more workers, simple as that." Wagner replied. 
     Several of those around the table had expressions of total disgust on their faces, and Adama noted that Baltar was of the same way, even. He turned to Sarah. "Comments?" 
     "Commander, from what we know of the Ziklagi," she replied, "their slave labor system works in much the same way. It is not at all surprising, given what we know of this race, and their mentality towards those they consider inferior." 
     "It is logical," Moray said. "If there is no intake of new prisoners." And heads nodded at that, unpleasant though it was. 
     "One other thing, Commander," Wagner said. "She has given us a complete map of the camp and the surrounding area. As well as the names of everyone there. The inmate population is small enough that everyone knows everyone else." 
     "Major?" Adama asked, seeing Croft raise his hand. 
     "I'll need that map," Croft said. "I can start coming up with possible scenarios for a raid."
     "You'll get it, Major," Wagner said, and Croft nodded thanks.
      Thank you, Captain, Sergeant," Adama said, and both Byrne and Wagner nodded. "Doctor Salik?" 
     "Commander," the CMO nodded. "The Petty Officer is resting comfortably, and has had surgery to repair damage to her shoulders-they were damaged in a number of torture sessions, as well as nutrient and energon treatments to alleviate some minor deficiencies brought about by her alien diet,-but she'll recover completely. She's eating and sleeping normally, and should be ready for release from Life Center in two days." 
     "Doctor," Tinia was saying. "Can you handle these people when we do rescue them?" 
     "We're getting ready, Siress," Salik replied. "My staff is making the necessary preparations. Knowing roughly how many to expect, we'll have things in hand when they do arrive. Especially if there's a few women who are either pregnant or who have small children." 
      "Maybe both," Allen spat. "The more I hear about these people, the more I share the Sergeant's view-wiping out every one of them who is responsible for this.
     "Speaking of which," Byrne said. "The same individual, who interrogated Sergeant Wagner did the same to Petty Officer Clemens. He's now the Camp Commandant, and the Petty Officer reports that he has continued with his...activities. We've given him the code name of 'Scarface.'" 
      "All the more reason to get those people out, Commander," Xaviar said. 
      "Agreed, Sire." Adama replied. "Doctor, how soon can you be ready to receive these people?" 
      "Give us two centars notice, Commander," Salik nodded. "I will have extra staff on hand, and all facilities on standby once a rescue mission is launched." 
      "You'll get at least that much notice, Doctor," Adama said. "Anything else?" 
      "No, Sir, not at this time." 
      "Thank you," Adama nodded. He gestured to Wilker. "Doctor Wilker?" 
     "Commander," Wilker nodded. "Everyone. We have some information on the likely location of the
slave camp, and have also translated the alien captain's mission orders." He called up a holographic display of the nearby star systems. "Now, according to the hostage's information, the world on which the camp is located is a binary star system, with a Yellow main sequence star and a Red Dwarf companion. Two systems nearby fit that description, but one of them can be ruled out immediately."        
     "How so, Doctor?" Tigh asked. 
     "Just getting to that, Colonel," Wilker replied. The display zoomed in towards one corner of the scan, then split-screened two systems, both quite similar. At first glance, the suns seemed almost identical. "The system on the left is at Y-minus 14,000, range about twelve light-yarens from our current position, and has a planet in its life zone. However, it can't be the camp location. It's a gas giant, with three habitable moons. Nothing else there is habitable by Humans." That system vanished, and the display zoomed in on the second one. "This star, at Z-plus 24,000, range eighteen point six light-yahrens, however, does match her description. A habitable world, with a single large moon. We're checking for system charts, any information for use by their own navigators, and so on. By this time tomorrow, that information should be available, Commander." 
     "Well done, Doctor," Adama said. "That should include information about the system's defenses?" 
      "We believe so, Commander," Wilker said. "Now, the mission orders. The ship was here to maintain observation of the mine site. Apparently, about a sectar ago by our calendar, the mine had a very serious accident, and went completely off-line.All personnel there were killed in some sort of explosive incident. The aliens' command wants the situation assessed, and the mine reactivated if at all possible." 
      "So the ship was here to keep anyone from claim-jumping?" Byrne asked. 
      "One could say that, yes," said Wilker. 
      "Who were the laborers?" Baltar asked. 
      "The phrase 'Enemies of the People' should be sufficient, I would think," Wilker responded. "It was a prison mine," 
      "Was anyone from the camp sent there?" Tinia asked. 
      "The Petty Officer's sure that no one has left the camp-except for her," Wagner said. "I'll ask her again to make sure, Commander.." 
      Adama nodded. "Please do, Sergeant." Wagner nodded back. 
     "It shouldn't take long to rule that out," Tigh said. "All we have to do is scan the space-suited bodies for Human DNA." 
      "Doctor Salik," Adama said. "Please assemble a party to do just that." 
      "Right away, Sir," the CMO nodded. 
     "Commander," Boomer said. "What about checking the wreckage? There should be a roster of the miners in the offices." 
      "Good question, Captain," Pelias said. 
      Adama turned to Croft. "Major, send four of your men down with the Doctor's party. Their mission will be just that: checking the wreckage for any documents, maps, and so on." 
      "I'll get them ready, Sir," Croft nodded. 
      "All right," Adama nodded at Wilker. "Anything about another ship on the way?" 
      "Yes, Sir. There is. The mission orders note that a ship is expected to arrive soon, though its mission is not mentioned in the material." 
      "Probably a relief ship," Moray said.
      "That's what I would guess," Tigh nodded. 
      "Commander," Sarah said. "At least two of the alien officers have mentioned another ship coming. They're pretty smug about it. It's due to arrive nearly three days from now, by our calendar. Two days by theirs." 
      "Could they arrive sooner than expected?" Xaviar asked. 
      "Anything's possible, Sire," Byrne said. "If he does show up earlier than expected...."
     "We'll have to kill him," Baltar noted. "No choice in the matter." 
     "I hate to say this, Commander," Allen said. "But Baltar's right. If he spots us..." 
     "He can't get a message off," Tigh reminded everyone. "They can fly faster than they can communicate."
      "But if he gets away..." Apollo said. "We can't let that happen, Commander." 
      "Agreed," Adama said. "We'll move the Fleet out of the system in the next forty-eight Centars, and suspend operations at the mine site." 
      "Yes, Commander," Tigh said. 
     "If he comes when he's expected, and finds no one here, he may move on," Xaviar commented. 
      "The alien mission orders have several possible rendezvous points, Sire," Wilker said. "In nearby systems." 
      "So if he finds this ship gone, he may head for another?" Pelias asked. 
      "Entirely possible, Sire," Tigh noted. "A more favorable outcome." 
      "But if he does show up early," Byrne said. "Baltar's right. He can't be allowed to get away with a sighting report." 
      Adama looked at his XO, who nodded. Then he glanced at Apollo and Boomer, who did the same, as did Sire Xaviar. "All right, then. We'll proceed on that basis." He turned to Apollo. "Apollo, you and Strike Leader Orion coordinate. Maintain double the usual number of patrols while we're in the system." 
     "Yes, Commander," Apollo nodded. 
     "By your command," Orion replied. 
      "Colonel, forty-eight centars from now, we move the Fleet, and suspend operations at the mine site," Adama said. 
      "Understood, Commander," Tigh said. 
     "Sergeant," Adama gestured at Wagner. "Keep talking with the Petty Officer, and find out if anyone's been taken out of the camp that she knows of." 
     "Yes, sir."
     Adama then nodded at Wilker. "Doctor, find out every scrap of information you can about that system: the planet, its defenses, everything you can find."
      "We'll get it, Commander," the scientist replied. 
     "Sarah," Adama nodded at his Academician. "If you get any more from the alien officers, let me know at once." 
     "Commander," she nodded. 
      "All right: is there anything else?" Heads shook no. "Very well, we'll meet again tomorrow at 1600. That's it for now," Adama said. "We're adjourned. 
     As the meeting broke up, Bryrne turned to Wagner. "Well, Sergeant. We've got the ball rolling on this." 
     "Yes, Sir," Wagner said. "There's only one thing I wish we could do." 
     "And that is?" 
      She looked at her CO. "Some way, somehow, get a message to the prisoners. Tell them to hang on a little bit longer, because someone's coming for you. And going to take you home." 
     "Yeah," Byrne nodded. "They'll know soon enough." He stood up. "Get back and be with the Petty Officer. Find out if anyone's been moved from the camp for whatever reason." 
     "Will do, Sir," Wagner nodded. "Won't be long, though, before she can move over to Constellation."
     "And she meets Jen, and the others. Though I wonder one thing," Byrne mused. 
     "Sir?"
     "Her reaction to Mr. Malik." 
     "Well, Sir," Wagner tried to suppress a laugh. "I was used to Star Wars and Star Trek, and the aliens they showed. If she was, then she won't have any problems." 
     "Hadn't thought of that," Byrne laughed. 

     Afterwards, Lauren went back to LifeCenter. When she got to Jessica's cabin, she found the Navy Petty Officer trying on some new clothes. "Glad to have something nice to wear for a change?" 
     "You bet," Jessica replied. "Cassie brought me several sizes, and these fit. Just a basic Colonial uniform with no rank insignia."
     "They'll be enough for now, but before we get you to Constellation, which is Captain Byrne's ship, we need to get you to the Rising Star." 
     "What's that?" 
     Lauren smiled. "Think of it as a cross between the QE II and a Club Med, but only in space." 
     "A liner? You mean like in some movie?" Jessica asked. 
     "You got it. And huge. Bigger than any ocean-going ship on Earth. I had some R&R there not too long ago," Lauren said, remembering her time off, and her pleasant time with Castor. "Anyway, there's a tailor's shop aboard that ship who did my uniforms, Captain Byrne's and Commander Allen's, and some Earth-style civilian clothes for Jen-that's the Captain's daughter. He'll do the same for you, once we make it over there. For a price, but the Captain can afford it." 
     "It'll be good to wear the uniform again," Jessica nodded. "Not that there's anything wrong with this. It's comfy. Just imagine the back pay we'll get." She laughed. "Yeah. I know, that's the last thing any of us ought to be thinking about right now, but...." 
     "I've thought about it myself," Lauren admitted. "Buy a house someplace, look up any family I have left, and just sit back and relax. And maybe buy some Dobermans to keep the book and movie agents away."
     "You're probably right about that," Jessica laughed. 
     "That's the first time you've laughed since we rescued you." 
     "It is? Haven't had much to laugh about the past few years," Jessica said, somberly. "Had a couple nightmares last night." She rubber her arms, as if suddenly cold.
     "They'll go away, or at least be less frequent, as time passes. I still have a few," Lauren said. "But I deal with it my own way." 
     "How?" 
      "Staying busy. I'm the Constellation's Master-at-Arms, and I've had some excitement since I was rescued, I can tell you," Lauren said. She told the story of the Laban affair and the Il Fadim incident.
     "Holy....so they had their own terrorists?" 
     "With luck, that should've taken care of that. But as for terrorists....back home, there was a really bad one in New York and Washington," said Lauren. She told of the Twin Towers going down and the attack on the Pentagon on 9-11. 
     "New York? The Twin Towers?" She saw Lauren nod. "My god....my older brother works, or worked...in one of the towers."
     "Where?" Lauren asked. 
     "Tower One, I think. 74th Floor, if I remember right."
     "Chances are, he made it," Lauren said. "The plane hit at 87, and everyone above that floor died. Most everyone in Tower One below that was evacuated."
     "Maybe he made it..." Jessica thought. 
     "Captain Byrne said they have a database back home, listing who died. When we get home, you can check it out."
     "Yeah."
      After a few moments, Lauren went on, and told about other aspects of 9/11, and the events that followed, including the Iraq and Afghan Wars, and the raid on Bin Laden's compound.
      "Good riddance," Jessica said. "Glad I didn't see it." 
      "Same here," Lauren admitted. "The only good thing about being in a tube." 
      "Yeah," said Jessica, glumly. Lauren could guess where her mind was going, and let her have a few moments  of silence.
     "Jessica....I have to ask you something. Was anyone removed from the camp while you were there? You know, taken out and never seen again?" Lauren asked. 
     "No. Why do you ask? " 
     We found a mining complex, on the moon of this greenhouse planet, and it was staffed with prison labor," Lauren said. "The other woman thought a moment.
      "Last time Lemeshik took me there....about three months ago. We all know each other by now, and I saw everybody." 
      "Okay..." Lauren nodded. "Anyone ever come and ask if they could have prisoners?" 
      "Not that I remember....wait. Denise, my friend, she worked in Scarface's office, the guards' barracks, those places, as a cleaning lady for a while. She was in his office when this guy, a big-wig officer I guess, came-he was dressed pretty ostentatiously, with lots of decorations and junk all over his uniform, and she overheard them talking." 
      "She's picked up the alien lingo?" 
      "All of us have. Some better than others. Nobody's fluent, though," Jessica said. "Anyway, she was able to pick up enough of the conversation. He wanted to know if there were any 'problem prisoners.' " 
      "What'd Scarface have to say?" 
      "He said that if there were 'problem prisoners,' he took care of them." Jessica replied. "There was some arguing back and forth, but Scarface said, 'take it up with the Supreme Command.' She said the guy got kind of deflated and left." 
     "How long ago was this?" Lauren wanted to know. 
      "Before Lemeshik took me from the camp, oh, a year, year and a half ago, I think," Jessica said. 
      Lauren nodded. "Thanks. I need to let the Commander know. I'll be back in a few." 
      "What for?" 
      "If they have their own dissidents..." Lauren said. 
      "Oh," Jessica then understood. 
      Lauren then left the cabin and asked the duty medtech for a telecom. She called the Bridge, and asked for Commander Adama. "Yes, Sergeant?" 
     "Commander, I just had a talk with Petty Officer Clemens. She's pretty confident that no one has been moved from the camp." 
      "You're sure about this, Sergeant?" Adama asked. 
      "Yes, Sir. As of the last time she was there, no one had been removed from the place." 
      "Very good, Sergeant. You and the Petty Officer have a good evening." 
     "Thank you, sir."  After the Commander hung up, she pulled out her PDA and sent Captain Byrne a text. Then she noticed Cassie coming on shift, and an orderly bringing their dinner. "Thanks, Cassie. I was wondering when we'd be getting something to eat." 
     "You get a regular meal, Sergeant. Jessica, though..." Cassie shrugged. "Just one more light meal, then she'll be off the limited diet." 
     "Jessica'll be glad to hear that," Lauren said. She took the trays from the orderly and went back into the cabin, where the two enjoyed their respective dinners.


     The next morning, Commander Adama, after his usual light breakfast, and discussing overnight patrol reports with Apollo, and being pleased that there was so far, no alien activity in the system, went on up to the Bridge. He found his XO there, waiting as usual. "Good morning, Tigh." 
     "Good morning, Commander," Tigh replied. "I have the morning status report." 
     "Let's have it," Adama said. 
     "Doctor Salik's party has returned from the mine site. They've scanned all of the bodies, and though it's likely there are some trapped inside the mine, none of the bodies found are Human. And Major Croft's people who went with them have recovered a number of documents from one of the wrecked buildings, as well as a safe, for examination." 
     "A safe? Adama asked. 
     "Yes, Commander," Tigh said. "A safe. As for what's in it..."
      "We'll have to find out, won't we? And what's the Earth term? A 'safe-cracker?'" 
       The Exec had a slight chuckle at that. "Yes, Commander. We'll get that safe open."
      "Good. What else?" said Adama. 
     "The miners are closing down early," Tigh reported. Tigh reported. "They say that the effects of the explosion make it too dangerous to work the mine. A lot of dangerous debris, and poor engineering of the site as a whole. If this was back in the Colonies, the miners say this facility would've attracted the attention of the Colonial Mining Safety Organization, and would have been shut down." 
     "A prudent precaution," nodded Adama. "Do they have an alternative location in mind?" 
      "They do, Commander, but in light of a possible visitor..." 
      "Agreed. Best to shut down now, and wait until that passes, then start at a new location," Adama finished for his XO. "All right, then. What else?" 
      "Doctor Wilker's people have made additional progress overnight in exploiting the captured materials," Tigh continued. "They should have more information by this afternoon." 
      Adama nodded. "Excellent, Tigh. Is there anything else at the moment?" 
     "No, Commander, not at this time." 
      "Commander?" Captain Byrne said, entering the bridge, and saluting. 
      "Ah, Captain," Adama said. "I take it you're going to have another talk with the Petty Officer?" 
      "Yes, sir. I gather Sergeant Wagner told you about her most recent conversation?" Byrne asked. 
      "She did, Captain," Adama replied. "No one has been moved from the camp that she's aware of." 
      Byrne nodded. "I'm glad about that, Commander. I sure don't want to leave anyone behind. Not now." 
      "Very understandable," said Adama. 
       "Yes, sir," Byrne said. "Commander, how close to a ship do you have to be for your scanning systems to pick up Human life signs?" 
     "Not that close, Captain," Adama replied. "Why do you ask?" 
      "Commander, we have to consider the possibility, however remote, that Lemseshik's not the only one with a Human slave." 
      "Even though the Petty Officer has indicated no one has been removed from the camp?" 
      "Commander, that was as of ninety or so days ago," Byrne pointed out. "We have to consider the possibility that some things have changed in the interim." 
      "The Captain's right, Commander," Tigh said. 
       Adama nodded. "Agreed." He turned to Omega. "Has Captain Apollo's patrol launched yet?" 
      "No, sir," the Bridge Officer replied. 
      "Have him report to me on the Bridge, immediately." 
      "Right away, Commander." 
       A  few centons later, Apollo arrived on the Bridge. "Yes, Commander?" 
      "Apollo," Adama nodded. "Inform all outgoing patrol pilots, and your Cylon counterparts as well: If an alien ship is detected, get in as close as possible without being scanned yourselves, and see if there are any Human life signs. Your scanners should even be able to determine if there's any in stasis." 
      "Like that sleeper ship we found near Paradeen?" asked Apollo. 
      "Yes," Adama replied. "And if you do get Human life signs, track and shadow, and get a message to
the Fleet as soon as possible. 
      Apollo nodded. "Yes, Commander. I'll tell the squadron commanders, and Orion as well." 
      "All right, then," Adama said. "Good luck, and be careful." 
      "Yes, Father," Apollo replied, shaking his father's hand. Then he headed off to Alpha Bay and a launch. 
      "Commander," Tigh said. "We'd better inform Major Croft." 
      Adama nodded. "Omega, get me Major Croft, please." 
      "Sir." 
      Croft's face appeared on a monitor less than a centon later. "Commander?" 
      "Major, how soon can you have a team on standby, ready to deploy?" 
      "That depends on the mission, Commander," Croft said. "A Combat Rescue, we can have a team prepped and ready in fifteen centons. What's this one about, Sir?" 
     "Major, that ship we're expecting to arrive may, and I emphasize, may, have a hostage aboard. Just like the Petty Officer," Adama told his commando leader. "How soon can you have a boarding party assembled?" 
     "Thirty centons, Commander," Croft said. "No sooner." 
      Adama nodded. "Stand by, Major," and he saw Croft nod understanding. "Comments?" He asked both Tigh and Byrne. 
      Tigh asked, "Do you want the ship as well, Commander? Because if not, all we need is any hostage, and I presume any documents from the Captain's Cabin." 
      "Captain?" 
      "I agree with Colonel Tigh, Commander," Byrne said. "Sure, we could always use another ship, but if it comes to a firefight, and it probably will, we can't afford to be choosy about our shots. Just get in, grab the hostage and the contents of the Captain's Cabin, and get out. The ship is expendable." 
      "Then what, Captain?" Tigh asked. 
      "The shuttle leads that ship on a merry chase. Right into the waiting arms of both Galactica and the BaseShip. Then he gets used for target practice, and the foundry ship gets some more scrap." 
      "Simple, but effective," Adama noted. "Major, we don't need the ship. Just get in, get the hostage and the contents of the Captain's cabin, then get out." 
      "Not unlike Apollo and Starbuck on that Base Ship," Croft said. "I'll have a team on standby, as of now, Commander." 
     "Make it so, Major," Adama said. 
     After Croft signed off, Byrne said, "Commander, I'm headed back to LifeCenter. I want to see how the Petty Officer's doing this morning." 
     There was a smile on Adama's face. "Naturally, Captain. Let me know if she's got anything new." 
     "Yes, sir."


     In Jessica's cabin in LifeCenter, Lauren had risen early, and noticed that Jessica was still sound asleep. Careful not to disturb her, she went into the cabin's washroom, and after taking care of her morning business, quietly got dressed and slipped out of the cabin. She found Cassie there, who was counting down the centons until she went off shift. "Cassie," 
     "Sergeant," Cassie replied. "How's it going?" 
     "Not bad." Lauren replied. "She woke me up a couple of times-with bad dreams, but she went back to sleep pretty fast." 
     "Not unlike a certain person when she was rescued," Cassie smiled. 
     "I suppose so," Lauren replied. "Anyway, I might as well get our Breakfast-"
     "I'll take care of it," Cassie said. "And Doctor Salik will check her out this morning, and she should be cleared for full meals after that." 
     "Thanks, Cassie," said Lauren. She then went back into the room, and found Jessica just waking up. "And good morning to you," 
     "Been a long time since someone said that to me," Jessica said. "In the camp, they just shout us awake with a bloody loudspeaker. Not much time to get cleaned up: then there's roll call, then it's off to whatever work detail you've got." She got up to use the washroom herself. "So, what's Jen like?" 
     "You'll like her. She was raised from the time she was about two or so by the Captain on the planet they were marooned on, and she was actually born there. She's never been to Earth. But Jen's a good kid, he gave her something resembling an education, and has some maturity beyond what a fifteen- or sixteen-year old might have. Probably growing up rough had something to do with it," Lauren said. "She's also a typical teenager in some respects." 
      "What do you mean?" 
      "A pile for everything and everything in its pile," Lauren laughed. 
      "Just like I was, a long time ago," Jessica said, smiling. 
      "She's dating that Sire Pelias fellow."
      "Really. Not bad. He's kinda cute." She stretched, and looked around. "Well, one more day here, at least. Then I'm free." 
      "Maybe Salik will release you tomorrow," Lauren said. "You know doctors." 
      "Yeah," Jessica said, getting back into bed. "All we had was Anna, though." 
      "The Soviet nurse?" 
     "Yep," Jessica replied. "The aliens let her run a little clinic, although they do have one of their doctors there, but he's not very compassionate. She has to bargain with him to get people excused from work for medical reasons. Just slaves, you know. But I'll say this: they don't want anyone dying on them. Not yet, anyway." 
      "She deliver the babies?" Lauren asked. 
      "She did," Jessica said with pride. "And the aliens even let her set up a nursery, if you can believe that." 
      "They'll grow up in a much different environment, if things work out like we hope," Lauren promised. "It may be deck plates beneath their feet for a while, but eventually, we'll get home." 
      "Space kids," Jessica said. 
      "Yeah, but the Colonials have kids who've never known anything but deck plates and ships. Kids born after they fled their home planets." 
      Then the chime to the cabin door rang, and Lauren yelled, "Come in!" 
      It was Cassie with their food. "And good morning, Jessica," she said. "Sorry about this not being a full breakfast, but until Doctor Salik clears you, and that should be later today-" 
     "I know," Jessica smiled. "Our squadron's flight surgeon back home would have a lot in common with him." 
      Cassie chuckled at that. "More than one Salik in the universe? Lords of Kobol!" 
      "Flight surgeons are like that," Lauren said. "I'm not a pilot, but I overheard the pilots in my unit griping about the flight surgeon in the 120th at Great Falls."  
      "You should hear how pilots like Sheba or Starbuck gripe about Salik," Cassie laughed. "Anyway, I still have some time left on shift. Enjoy, and let me know if you need anything." 
      "Will do, Cassie," Lauren said. "Thanks." 
      Cassie nodded, but as she opened the door to leave, Captain Byrne was there. Both Lauren and Jessica sprang to attention. "Captain," 
     "As you were, both of you," Byrne said. "How are you feeling today, Petty Officer?" 
      "Better, Sir," Jessica said. She raised her glass of juice. "Here's to Salik letting me out of here tomorrow."
     "Hear, hear," Lauren said. 
      Byrne nodded. "Petty Officer, you mentioned that no one had been moved from the camp. I know you haven't been there in three months or so, but is there any chance they could have removed someone?" 
      "Sir, I doubt it. Sure, something could have changed since I left, but the only reason I'm here is because Lemeshik had some....connections. Otherwise, Scarface is pretty possessive with the prisoners," Jessica said. 
      "That fits with what the First Officer said, sir," Lauren said. 
      "It does," Byrne agreed. "From what we can piece together, Lemeshik's conned, blackmailed, and even killed his way up the food chain." 
      "Not just that, sir," Jessica said. "A couple months after he put me on that ship, his father came aboard. Some kind of inspection. I was confined to the cabin, and didn't see him much." 
      "His dad?" Lauren asked. "Sorry, sir," she said to Byrne. 
      "No apology necessary, Sergeant," Byrne said. "What's his dad got to do with this?" 
      "His old man's the equivalent of a Vice-Admiral in our Navy," Jessica said. "And chances are..."
      "The old man helped him move on up, and squashed any investigation of him," Byrne finished. "Do you know what his dad's position is?" 
      "Sorry, sir," Jessica said. "He didn't like it much when I asked questions." She rolled up her gown. There were scars from many a beating on her back still visible. 
      "I understand," Byrne said. "At least you knew to keep your head low when you had to." Then he thought for a moment. "Jessica...do you want this guy prosecuted? The Colonials have a law that would let you have your day in court." 
      "Sir, can I think about it?" Jessica asked. "It's a little too much right now, with everything else..." 
      Byrne nodded sympathetically. "I know. Just think about it, okay?" 
      "Yes, sir," Jessica replied. 
      "One other thing," Byrne said. "If Salik gives the okay, Sergeant. Bring her to the afternoon briefing." 
      "Sir?" Lauren asked. 
      "They can hear her story firsthand," Byrne said. "Just as they did with yours."
       "If Salik cuts her loose," Lauren said. "Sir."

     Out on patrol, it was Boomer and Starbuck on this one, along with Flight Leader Hadries and his wingmate. So far, it had been uneventful, though with the possibility that additional alien ships could be coming into the system, everyone was on alert. "So, Boomer," Starbuck asked over the com. "How about a Triad match: you and Castor against me and Apollo." 
     "We haven't done that since Athena had the twins," Boomer replied. "We're way overdue."
     "Yeah...and..." Then Starbuck noticed his scanner. "Boomer, got something. Edge of my scanner. Approaching at Factor...three point six." 
     "Got it," Boomer said. 
     "I have it as well, Captain," Hadries reported. "No identification as yet." 
     "We're too far away," Boomer replied. "Let's go and have a look. Remember the Rules of Engagement." 
     "By your command," Hadries said. 
     "On your wing," Starbuck called, and both pairs of fighters peeled off to investigate the contact. 
     The ships closed in, scanners going. Boomer had it first. "Got it. It's a ship, and it's entering the system."
      "Wait a centon..." Starbuck said. "Holy Frak!" 
     "Starbuck?" 
     "It's just like the derelict! Same size, same configuration. And she just dropped out of lightspeed." He peeled away from his approach course and moved in from a different angle. Starbuck then focused his scanners, checking for Human life signs, recalling the mission brief only two centars earlier. "Negative for Human life signs." 
     "Coming in," Boomer said. He, too, concentrated his scanners, and got the same result. "No Humans, thank the Lords, but it's definitely the Abductors," 
     "They're supposed to be here tomorrow or the next day," Starbuck said, recalling his briefing.
     "Tell that to them," Boomer shot back. "Hadries, let's stay out of their sensor range, and get every bit of data we can. Maintain course and speed equal to theirs." 
     "By your command," the Cylon flight leader responded. And unknown to the aliens in the ship, they had a four-ship tail as they entered the system. 
     "I'm notifying the Galactica," Boomer said. "Red Patrol One to Galactica." 
     "Galactica here, Red Patrol One," Rigel's voice came over the com. 
    "We've got company," Boomer said. "Ship identical to the derelict, and it's coming into the system."
     Stand by, Red Patrol One. Will notify the Commander." Rigel said. She swiveled her bridge chair towards the Commanders' station. "Commander?" 
     "Yes, Rigel?" Adama replied. 
     "Sir, report from Red Patrol One. They have a contact entering the system. A ship identical to the derelict."
     "Transfer that data to my console please, Omega," Adama ordered. 
     "Transferring, Commander," the bridge officer replied. And on a monitor, the blips appeared: four fighters trailing an alien ship. 
     "He's early," Tigh commented. "If he gets too close to that greenhouse world, he might scan the mine site. The mine operations are still closing down." 
     "Tell them to expedite that if at all possible," Adama said to Tigh.
     "Right away, Commander," Tigh went off to relay the order. 
     "Omega, have Captain Byrne come to the Bridge."
     "Commander,"
 
      Captain Byrne had been talking with Sire Pelias, who had some ideas about how to handle the rescued slaves, since they would outnumber the Zohrloch refugees, and no doubt would want to maintain as many connections to home as possible, when he was paged over the PA System.
     "Excuse me, Sire, but duty calls," 
     "Of course, Captain. We can discuss this later," the Sire replied. "I'll come with you." 
     Byrne nodded, and the two headed for the Bridge. "Commander?" he asked, saluting upon entering.
     "Captain," Adama nodded. "And Sire Pelias. Have a look at this." He pointed to a bridge monitor.
       Both Byrne and Pelias watched on the monitor as the alien ship closed with the inner planets. "Commander," the young Sire said. "I recall from my training that one could estimate where a target may have come from if his approach vector lined up with any nearby stars." 
     "Quite right, Sire," Adama said. He turned to Athena "Plot his approach vector. See if his course intersects any nearby star systems."
     "Yes, Commander," Athena said. She typed in the necessary commands, and soon got a response. "He's coming from a star six point four light-yahrens distant, Y-plus 13,000." 
     "Does the alien data show what type of star?" 
     Athena typed in the command. "Alien data shows a K-class Orange main sequence star, with two planets. One an ice ball, the other a sun-skimming gas giant." 
      "So no life forms there," Pelias mused. "He must be on a patrol." 
      "I'll go along with that, Sire," Byrne said. 
      Adama nodded. "Then this ship must be a relief." 
      Tigh came back from talking to the miners. "Commander, they should be finished within a centar." 
      "We may not have that long," Adama said. "Athena, plot his ETA to the greenhouse world." 
      "One moment, Commander," she replied, typing in the command. "He'll be here in forty-five centons." 
     "Like you said, Captain, we can't let him get away with a sighting report."
     "Any Human life signs?" Byrne asked. 
      "Good question, Captain," Adama said. He put on a headset. "Get me Boomer, please." 
      "Yes, Commander," Omega said. "You're on, Commander." 
      "Red Leader, this is Galactica. Any human life signs?" Adama asked. 
      "Negative, Galactica," Boomer replied. "All four ships have scanned him. Nothing. Not even a low-level reading for someone in a stasis pod." 
      "Have you been detected?" 
      "Negative on that as well, Commander." Boomer responded. "We're well out of visual range, and just beyond their own scanner range."
     "All right: maintain trail position, all of you. And let us know if he changes course or speed. If he doubles back on you, we'll have help out there as soon as possible." Adama told Boomer and Hadries. 
     "Copy that, Galactica," Boomer replied. 
      "By your command," said Hadries. 
      "Very well, Galactica out." Adama said. He turned to Omega. "Get me Baltar. And then bring the Fleet to full alert." 
      "Yes, Commander," Omega said. 
      "Do you want to go to Battle Stations, Commander?" Tigh asked. 
      "Not yet," Adama said. "Let's watch and see what he does." 
      "Baltar's on the line, Commander," Omega reported. 
      "Adama?" Baltar asked. "You're tracking the alien scanner target?" 
      "We are, Baltar. Hopefully, all he does is make a sensor sweep or two, then goes on his way. If not..." 
      "If not, there's going to be a fight," the traitor calmly replied. "We're standing by."
      "Very well," Adama said. "We'll be in touch. But things may happen in a hurry." 
      "They always seem to," Baltar nodded. "We'll be ready." 
      Adama nodded. "As will we. Thank you, Baltar." 
      The traitor nodded and signed off. 
     Then all they could do was wait, and watch the chrono, as well as the scanners as the alien ship closed in on the greenhouse world. 
     "Commander," Athena said. "ETA now twenty-five centons." 
     Nodding, Adama turned to Tigh. "Which squadron's on alert?" 
     "Silver Spar, Commander," the Exec replied.
     "Get them on cockpit alert, now." 
      "Commander," Tigh replied. 

      Down in Silver Spar's Ready room, Captain Bojay and his pilots had been sitting around, cracking the usual jokes, though with the aliens known as the Abductors somewhere around, they knew that the ext launch might be a real one. Then the PA blared. "Alert pilots to your fighters. This is not a launch.. Repeat, alert pilots to your fighters. This is not a launch." 
     "Man your Vipers!" Bojay shouted. "Let's go!" He grabbed his helmet and flight gear, then raced for his ship. A centon later, he was in the cockpit, going through his pre-flight, and all his pilots were doing the same. All he and his squadron needed now was the order to launch. 
      "Colonel," Adama said. "Notify Baltar. Have his alert squadron's pilots in their ships. If we have to launch..."
      "Right away, Commander." 
      On the BaseShip, the alert squadron's crews went to their Raiders, and they, too were ready to launch. 
      "Commander?" Tigh asked. 
      "We wait. It's up to him, now," Adama said. 
      "Sir, he's signaling," said Athena.
     "Signaling?"
     "The other ship, sir. A standard hail. 
     "I see."
     Aboard the alien ship, its commander was on his Bridge, and watching his main screen. They were closing on the mine site, in this system that otherwise held nothing for them, the gods be cursed. The world they were approaching was right in the middle of the star's zone of life, and yet, it was totally incapable of supporting life. He turned to his communications officer. "Anything?" 
      "No response, Commander. Nothing." 
      "I wonder if that scum Lemeshik went off after something," the First Officer said. 
     "Even if he did," the commander shot back, with a glare. While he shared the opinion of Lemeshik, a lower ranker did not refer to a senior officer so, even on another ship. Not in front of the rest of the crew. He made a note to reprimand the man, later. "He'd leave a message buoy. Or would he?" 
      "Knowing him, Commander, and his background, anything is possible." 
      Nodding, the Commander cursed Lemeshik. They had been cadets together and they had been chosen for the Sanctuary mission. They had served together on several ships since arriving in this sector of the galaxy, so many solar years earlier. He had known of Lemeshik's predilection for blackmail, extortion, and even, so it was whispered, murder, to get ahead, and he refused to stoop to that level. No, one had to set a proper example for the cadets and junior officers now coming into the service, and if the shipbuilding program was going to work as the Supreme Command said it would, they would need role models to follow. And officers who worked their way up through the ranks, instead of relying on treachery and the protection of one's father, were the proper models for the youngsters coming into the Star Force. And the nerve of the man, relying on his father to get himself a Te'rean slave! It was disgraceful! Unheard of! And the commander had heard of several other officers trying to do the same, only to be turned down. He didn't need a servant and sex slave for his ship, for the only woman in his life was his wife. And by the gods, that was all he needed. 
     Something, though, didn't feel right. He turned to his First Officer. "Standby alert."
     "Standby alert, Commander."
      "Launch our scout ships. Have them go ahead of us. Meanwhile, continue hails and scanner sweeps." 
      "Commander." 
      Two discus-type scout ships soon left the ship's docking bay, and took up course ahead of the ship. Unknown to them, they were being tracked almost from the moment of their launch. 

     He's launched two of his scout ships, Commander," Athena said. 
     "ETA?" Adama asked. 
     "Scout ships.." Athena worked her keyboard. "At current speed....five centons." 
      "That does it," Adama decided. "Launch the alert fighters. Notify Baltar to do the same. Battle Stations." 
      Tigh nodded. "Yes, Commander." The bridge light turned red, the klaxon sounded, and the alert fighters shot down the launch tubes. 
      "Battle Alert," Baltar said on the BaseShip. "Launch the alert force. Bring all remaining fighters to launch ready." 
      "By your command," Moray said, relaying the orders. 
      "Omega, contact the Constellation, Adelaide, and Century. Have them stay back to protect the Fleet." 
      "Commander." 
      "Scout ship ETA now three centons," Athena said. 
      "Suggestions, gentlemen?" Adama asked. 
      "Commander," Byrne said. "How about using the fighters to deal with the scouts? Then when their mother ship comes in to see what's happened, the Galactica and the BaseShip close in. And the last thing their Captain sees is the two biggest ships he's seen in his life, shooting his ship to pieces." 
      "Excellent idea, Captain," Tigh said. "Where'd you come up with that?" 
      "Naval and armored warfare on Earth, Colonel," Byrne said. "I'll explain later." 
      "We'll do just that," Adama said. "Notify Captain Bojay and the Cylon squadron leader. Vipers take the nearest scout, Raiders the other one." 
     "Commander," Omega replied. 

     The Vipers and Raiders closed with their targets. To Bojay, it almost didn't seem fair, but a saying that Captain Byrne had used in a briefing came back to him. "If you wind up in a fair fight, then you didn't plan your mission properly." He had also used another one, and Bojay had heard it was a favorite of Sergeant Wagner's as well: "Fair means I bring all of my people home alive. Frak the others." That was something he agreed with them totally. "Silver Spar, let's go in. Take him." 
     The Vipers swept in on their scout ship, and before the two aliens in the crew realized what was happening, they were under attack. Laser fire from the Vipers crashed into the ship, and it was disabled on the first pass. A second run had a salvo of laser fire smash through the ship's armor, punching through to the fusion drive.....
     "Got him!" Bojay hollered into his com as the alien ship erupted in a fireball. 
     At almost the same instant, the Cylons had made their runs, and the second ship exploded. 
     "Both targets destroyed, Commander," Omega reported. 
     "Get me Baltar," Adama said. A few microns later, Baltar came on the line. 
     "Adama?" 
     "Baltar, same as the previous one. Let's catch him in a crossfire."
     "Understood. Moving out now." 
 
     On the alien ship's bridge, the main screen showed the two scouts, then suddenly, unknown, high-speed targets appeared, of two types. None appeared to be Ke'zar, but the result was the same as if they had been. Both scouts were quickly overwhelmed and destroyed, leaving only fireballs to mark their presence. 
      "Commander!" the First Officer shouted. 
      "Action Stations!" roared the Commander. The alarm sounded, then all stations reported ready. "Full power to weapons. Arm all torpedoes." 
      "Commander!" the Sensor Officer shouted. "Two very large targets, at the edge of our sensor range. Closing at high speed!"
      "On screen," the Commander shouted. The screen then showed the two largest ships he'd ever seen in his life, one of them looking like two discus, one on top of the other, and spinning like a child's top, and the other was seen only bow-on, with two outrigger pylons, purpose unknown. "Te'reans! Those godless, worthless, heretics.....Close in and engage!" 

     "He's closing in, Commander," Omega said. "We're at the edge of his sensor range." 
      "Could he see us?" Adama turned to Athena. 
      "He should have us and the BaseShip both on his sensors by now." 
     "Fair enough," Adama decided. "Lock forward lasers on target." He turned to a monitor. "Baltar, fire when the Galactica does. Don't wait for my order." 
      "Standing by," the traitor replied. 
     "Forward lasers locked!" Omega said. "Picking up missile fire-control scans from the target."
     "Fire."
     "Forward Mega-laser locked on target?" Baltar asked Moray.
     "Locked on."
     "Fire."

     Red and blue streaks of heavy laser and Mega-laser fire crashed into the alien ship. The alien commander barely had a chance to scream as the two monster ships opened fire, then his bridge went dark, circuits blowing out everywhere, then all was suddenly engulfed in flames. His last sensation was the ship beginning to blow apart....

      The alien ship exploded in a fireball, fueled by the ship's anti-matter reactor going off. Several Cylon laser blasts had ripped into the alien ship's aft section, while Galactica's lasers had torn the bow section to pieces, and the main missile magazine had exploded almost at the same time as the reactor. Several instruments on both capital ships snowed and crackled, as the alien's death spread radion across the spectrum, then slowly died away, cooling in the icy vacuum of space.

     "Enemy target destroyed, Commander," Omega reported. 
     "Very well, Omega. Recall the fighters," Adama said. "And set Readiness Level Two."
     "Commander." 
      Byrne took a deep breath. "That settles that, Commander," he said. "It'll be a while before someone comes looking around." 
     "Indeed," Pelias said. "How long will it take them, though, to realize that two ships are missing?"
      "A very good question, Sire," Adama said. "Perhaps another chat with Sub-Commander Morovik is in order. You agree, Captain?" 
     "Yes, sir," Byrne said. "We'd better explain what brought us here, and your flight from the Colonies." 
     "Would he believe it, though?" Tigh wondered. "They all sound like rigid ideologues." 
    "He strikes me, Tigh, as being much more reasonable than his own captain," Adama commented.  "And more willing to be open with us." 
     "Yes, sir," Tigh nodded. 
     "Commander, before we do that, I'm headed back to LifeCenter. I imagine Sergeant Wagner and Petty Officer Clemens are wondering what's happened. And maybe Salik has cut her loose." 
     "Captain?" Pelias asked. 
     "If she can, she can tell her story at the afternoon briefing." 
     "An excellent suggestion, Captain," Adama said. 


     Captain Byrne went to LifeCenter, and found the staff there standing down from Battle Stations. "Always good to have one of these and not be busy," he heard one of the staff, Tarnia, he thought, say. He echoed that feeling, then found Dr. Salik coming out of Jessica's room. "Doc." 
     "Captain," Salik replied. "I have some good news, and some not-so-good news." 
    "Let's have it, Doc," Byrne said. "The good news first." 
     "The good news? Petty Officer Clemens is cleared to resume normal eating."
     "And the not-so-good news?" 
     "I won't release her until this time tomorrow. I want to be sure her stomach can handle a normal diet," the CMO said. 
     Byrne nodded. It was half of what he expected. Oh, well...."Mind if I see her, Doc?" 
      "Not at all," Salik replied. "Go right on in."
      Byrne went into Jessica's room and found her smiling. Sergeant Wagner was reading from a pad, and saw him come into the cabin. "Captain on the deck!" She came to attention, while Jessica was still sitting up in bed. 
     "As you were, both of you," Byrne said. "How are you now that Salik's letting you try eating whatever you want?" 
     "A lot better, sir," Jessica said. "I've been eying the Sergeant's food trays since I've been here." 
     Lauren had a laugh at that. "She's done more than that, sir,I've let her sneak a bite or two off my tray when I'm not looking."
     "I don't blame you a bit, Petty Officer," Byrne said. Jen had done the same for him, when he was recovering from his surgery and the aftereffects of their marooning. 
     "Sir, what just happened?" Jessica asked. "Was that their GQ alarm?" 
      Byrne nodded. "It was," he said. "Another alien ship came into the system. And Sergeant, it was the same class as the one we found you on." 
     "They didn't have any Humans aboard, did they?" Lauren asked, standing up. 
     "No, thank God," Byrne replied. "It was scanned pretty thoroughly. Then he launched his scout ships-"
     "The same kind they found on my ship, sir?" 
     "The same," Byrne admitted. "They got too close to the moon and the mine site. Vipers and Raiders took them out, then the Galactica and the BaseShip closed in." 
     "Let me guess," Lauren said. "They used him for a clay pigeon."
     "Right on that," Byrne said. "He was blown into a million pieces."
     "Sir," Lauren nodded. "All I can say is, 'goodbye and good riddance.'" 
     "Petty Officer?" Byrne asked Jessica. 
      She thought for a minute. "Sir, hope you don't mind my saying this." 
      "What?" 
      Jessica looked at him with a very serious expression on her face. "Sir, you can kill all of them you want, as far as I'm concerned." 
      Byrne looked at them both sympathetically. Considering what they had both gone thorough at the hands of the aliens, he didn't blame them at all for feeling that way. "You both have good reason to feel that way." He then changed the subject. "I take it Salik gave you the bad news?" 
     "Yes, sir," Jessica said. "One more day.....guess he doesn't want me puking my guts out after my first full meal of real food in a long time." 
     "He's like that," Lauren said. "He did the same with me, when I was defrosted." 
     "And both me and Jen," Byrne recalled. "Don't blame him for being cautious." 
     "No, sir," Jessica replied. "Oh, well....what's one more day?" 
      "You can read some more," Lauren said. "She's been devouring the contents of my pad." 
      "What are you in the middle of?" asked Byrne. 
     "Starship Troopers, sir." Jessica replied. 
      Byrne nodded. "An....interesting choice, one must say." He looked at her. "I'll see you tomorrow, Petty Officer. Think about what you're going to say, because at tomorrow's briefing, I'll want a first-person account from you." 
      Jessica gulped. "Yes, sir!" She'd never had to talk to a roomful of brass before. 
      "Sergeant," Byrne added. "I'll see you at 1600 for today's brief." 
     "Yes, sir," Lauren said. 
     "Carry on, then," 
     "Yes, sir!" Both women said. 


     Commander Adama and Sire Pelias, in the meantime, headed for the Brig. Just as they got there, Captain Byrne joined them. "Commander," 
     "And how is the Petty Officer?" Adama asked. 
     "She's fine, sir," Byrne said. "Dr. Salik's cleared her for full meals, but she won't be released until tomorrow." 
     "Ah," Adama said, smiling. "That is unfortunate, but there are times when even the Doctor outranks us all, no matter our personal feelings on the matter." 
     "It's the same thing in our military, Commander," Byrne said. "Flight surgeons are junior gods."
     "Some things are quite universal, as you're fond of saying, Captain," Pelias said. 
     "Shall we?" Adama asked. The trio went to the Brig's desk, where Tellus was again on duty. "Sergeant."
      "Commander," Tellus said. "Who will you be seeing today?" 
     "Sub-Commander Morovik," Adama said as he signed in. 
     "Yes, Sir," Tellus said. As they went into the cell block, there was some shouting in the aliens' language from the far end. "The Security Officer again, Commander. Another sermon, or whatever."
     "Sermon?" Pelias asked. 
     "Yes, sire," Tellus replied. "We've nicknamed him 'The Preacher'. He just goes on and on." 
     "Won't he ever shut up, Sergeant? Byrne asked. 
     "Only when he's asleep, Sir," Tellus said. "Here we are, Commander." He opened the cell door. "I'll be right outside, Sir," 
     "Thank you, Sergeant," Adama said. "We meet again, Sub-Commander." 
     "Commander," Morovik nodded. "I see you have the...Sire, isn't it? And the Te'rean officer." 
     "Sub-Commander," Adama said. "You are being well treated, I presume?"
     "I have no complaints," Morovik replied with a shrug. "Though I would like assurances about the crew."
     "Your crew is being housed on another vessel," Adama told him. "However, they are being well treated, I assure you."
     "And our ship?" 
     "We have taken her under tow, and repairs are underway as we speak." 
       Morovik nodded again. "You seem to be a man of your word, Commander. So...what brings you here again?" 
      "I can tell you, Sub-Commander, that our specialists are getting close to finding the location of the slave camp, and then a course of action will be decided upon. I do have a question: what would your government's reaction be to a possible trade? You and your crew, in exchange for the camp's inhabitants?" 
     "Commander," Morovik replied. "I can understand where you are headed with this. First, though I take it there was another engagement? One did hear what sounded like an Action Stations alarm." 
     "You are correct," Adama said. "One of your ships did enter the system, and yes, there was an engagement. And he came off very much the worse for wear." 
      "He was blown to pieces, to be blunt," Byrne added. 
      "You are doing whatever is necessary to protect your fleet," Morovik said. "Understandable. As for your offer, I am afraid that our government would never consider such a proposal." 
      "Why?" Pelias asked. "Do you not have a Diplomatic Corps?" 
      "We do....Sire? Isn't it? Yes, we do. However, our diplomats are more of the 'we demand, you obey,' type. A rational discussion of such an offer is highly unlikely." 
      "And the reason is?" Adama asked. 
      "Commander, as far as my government would be concerned, you are Te'rean. Or at the very least, the same race, even if not from the same planet. We have been taught, in fact it is a policy of state, that the inhabitants of Te'rea are a morally, technologically, and spiritually inferior race, no matter how similar they are to us, and therefore, we can act towards them in any manner we deem fit," Morovik said, apologetically. "I regret to say that such an offer would be summarily rejected." 
      "A pity," Adama said. "Then there will be further conflict. Even though we have no designs on your territory or people. Our goal is simply to recover those people, and...."
      "And help them return home," Morovik said. "If the situation were reversed, I would feel the same." The first officer nodded. "May I ask a question of you, Commander?" 
     "Certainly," Adama replied. 
     "What are your people doing here? Unless there have been massive changes, you are manifestly not from Te'rea itself." 
      "That is correct, Sub-Commander," Adama said. "We are not here by choice. A considerable distance from here, there is a system of twelve worlds and three suns. They were settled by our ancestors, many millennia ago. Twelve main worlds, along with a number of outlying settlements of varying sizes, with a society and culture beyond what you can imagine. Arts and culture, music, literature, science and engineering, and yet..."
      "You are here due to one of three possibilities. Either political upheaval, a natural disaster, such as a star going nova, or you are fleeing a war," Morovik commented. 
      "The latter," Adama said, after a moment. Obviously, Morovik was a highly perceptive man. "We fought a war with a ruthless, merciless, and incredibly capable foe for over a millennia." 
      "And you lost," said Morovik. "How?" 
      "Overwhelming numbers," Pelias said. "And a false peace offer. We assumed there would be peace, and thus..." 
      "And thus, you stood down your armed forces, and your enemies chose that time to strike," Morovik finished. "We have used that same tactic ourselves, in our past, in our own conflicts on the home world, when there were many nations there. And so...you are all that survive?" 
      "That is correct," Adama replied. "This fleet is all that remains of our civilization." 
     "And so, you seek the planet Te'rea, so that you may settle there?" 
     "Yes. According to our histories, there were thirteen tribes that fled the mother world. Twelve of them settled our Colonies. The Thirteenth tribe settled the world we call Earth." Adama said. 
     "Which you intend to settle, with the cooperation of the authorities there," Morovik said, seeing Adama and Byrne nod. "And then you will, as time passes, attempt to ensure that the world can defend itself." 
     "A long-term goal," Pelias said. "We would be lying if we said you were wrong." 
     "Would your ship have charts showing the way there?" Adama asked. 
     "Regrettably, no, Commander. Those charts are held in our Star Force Headquarters. Only the Supreme Command has access to those. Until the proper time, that is," Morovik said. "I doubt they would be in a mood to share those.....And yet, there is the parallel with us. A superior enemy, and yet, we did not wait for his final strike. Again, I cannot tell you more, but if you search the library, you may
find additional details." 
     "I see..."Adama said. "Thank you, Sub-Commander." 
     "Commander," Morovik gave a polite nod.
      After leaving the cell, and hearing more shouting from down the cell block, the three left the Brig.   "Comments, gentlemen?" Adama asked. 
     "Commander," Pelias said, "he's a lot deeper than I expected. He read us like a data pad. But, it was as I suspected: Now we know for sure: any diplomatic mission to them is a waste of time." 
     "I'll agree with that, Commander," Byrne said. "With ideologues, there's no sense in trying. And their Supreme Command seems to be full of them. Like the Taliban or Al-Qaida terrorists back home. They are unreachable." 
     "Agreed," Adama said. "If Lydia brings this up again at the briefing, we can bury the suggestion for good. And we also know now where to look for information on the war with the Ke'zar." 
     "That we do, Commander," Pelias said. "Once this situation is resolved." 
      "Indeed," Adama replied. "Two centars to the briefing." 


     Two centars later, the principals were gathered again, either in the Galactica's Ward Room, or present via com link, as Baltar, Moray, Orion, and Commander Allen were. After giving a brief overview of the action just past, Adama nodded at Doctor Salik, "Doctor, you may begin." 
     "Thank you, Commander," Salik replied. "Petty Officer Clemens will be released tomorrow, medically cleared, and she is back to normal eating. She's well on the way to recovery from not only her surgery, but from the effects of her poor diet while in captivity." 
     "Good news, Doctor," Pelias said. "And the preparations being made to receive the prisoners, when we do rescue them?" 
     "I've informed the medical staff, and since LifeCenter is not very busy at the moment, we have plenty of room for them. It'll be similar in some ways to what we did after initially fleeing the Colonies. And yes, we're also getting ready for any expectant mothers, and those with small children." 
     "Doctor?" Lydia asked. 
      "Siress," Byrne said, "remember that the Petty Officer indicated that the aliens have been...pushing the women to have children." 
     "Yes, of course," Lydia said. "My apologies."
     "Excellent, Doctor. Best to make them feel as comfortable as possible," Adama said. "And the alien captain?" 
     "He's also recovering from his wounds, Commander. He's cooperative with the medical staff, as I indicated previously, but he's quite contemptuous of anyone else." 
     "That fits, Commander," Sergeant Wagner said. "He wasn't happy when I first saw him, and sir, as we saw later on..." 
      "Quite so, Sergeant," Adama replied. "Doctor, keep him in the Security Ward for the time being. Things may flow more smoothly if he's separate from the rest of his officers."
     "Understood, Commander," the CMO said. "Otherwise, that's it for now." 
     "Thank you," Adama said. "Colonel? He motioned to Tigh.
      "The original mine site has been closed down, and the miners have a new location selected on the moon. It's in the bottom of a very large impact crater, that, if we were back in the Colonies, Caprica City could fit on the crater floor with room to spare. They report that the Tylium ore is quite accessable, and the quality is very good. 
      "And when do they expect to begin, Colonel?" Xaviar asked. 
      "Early tomorrow morning, sire." Tigh replied. 
     "And the engagement?" 
     "An alien ship, of the same class as the derelict, entered the system. A patrol detected her, and scanned her to determine whether or not she had Humans aboard. Fortunately, there were none. She launched her scout ships, and they got nearly to sensor range of the mine site," Tigh said. 
      "And our response?" Tinia asked. 
     "Vipers and Raiders were launched, and they destroyed both scouts," Tigh replied. "Then the Galactica and the BaseShip closed in, and took him in a crossfire. The alien was destroyed." 
      "As you know, Siress," Adama said. "We couldn't let him get away with a sighting report." 
     "Of course, Commander," she replied. "And that, no doubt, bought us some more time in this system," 
      "True, Siress," Adama nodded. He turned to a monitor where Baltar was watching. "Baltar, analysis of the engagement shows that your Mega-laser fire caused his reactor to go off, millicentons before the Galactica's fire exploded his main missile magazine. Based on that, the BaseShip gets credit for the kill." 
     "Thank you, Adama," Baltar replied. 
     "Command Centurion," Adama continued, addressing Moray. "Please pass on my congratulations to your gunners. Their shooting was excellent." 
      "Thank you, Commander," Moray replied. 
      "Now," Adama turned to Doctor Wilker, "Doctor, you have new information for us?" 
      "I do, Commander," the scientist said, standing. "Everyone. We've gotten new information on the slave camp's location. The alien data shows the camp's precise location. It's on the third planet in this system, sixteen point three light-yahrens away. The alien material even shows where the camp is located, here." He put up a holographic display of the alien map. 
      "Where is that, exactly, Doc?" Byrne asked. 
      "Translating their coordinates to ours, it's roughly thirty-five degrees north longitude, 145 degrees west latitude. We'll nail it down more precisely." Wilker said. "We've gotten the Petty Officer's map, and it fits. There's a large town or small city four kilometrons west of the camp, and seven kilometrons to the northwest of the town, is a military garrison. The camp itself is two kilometrons to the west of a seashore." 
     "That matches with what she said, Commander," Byrne said. "You can't keep the smell of the sea away from a sailor." 
      "Indeed, Captain," Adama replied. "Doctor," he addressed Wilker. "Any information on defenses?" 
      "Coming to that, Commander," Wilker said. "First, there's two additional facilities you should know about. First, five kilometrons from the town, is a spaceport. It's a joint military-civilian one. And adjacent to that, is a shipyard." 
      "A shipyard?" Tigh asked. 
      "Yes, Colonel," Wilker said. "And that's not all: they have stardocks in orbit. Eight of them." 
      "Orbital shipbuilding," Baltar commented. "When we do move, we'll need to destroy those." 
      "I agree," said Commander Allen. "Not only do we buy ourselves some additional security from these....people, but we do any neighboring alien races a favor." 
      "Noted, Commander. We'll add those facilities to the strike plan." Adama said. "Now, the defenses?" 
      "Commander, the alien map notes several missile and gun batteries, around the military garrison, and in proximity to the spaceport and shipyard. Medium-output ground-based laser batteries, capable of some serious hurt if we let them. No such defenses around the camp, however." 
      "Laser batteries?" Apollo asked.
      "Yes, Captain," Wilker replied. Another display came up. "Triple-barreled guns, lasers of some type. But none of their defenses can reach ships in orbit, it seems." 
      "Not like Gamoray, or some of the more heavily-defended locations in the Colonies," Boomer said. 
      Xaviar nodded. "And the missiles?" 
 "Four missiles per launcher, four launchers per battery, according to the data," Wilker said. "They're
using some type of very high-powered scanners. Primitive to us, two or three centi-yahrens behind our current level, but to them..."
      "To them, it's state-of-the-art," Byrne finished. "They're making use of what they have." 
      "Similar to Eastern Alliance equipment?" Tigh asked. 
      "Very similar," Wilker said. "In fact, slightly more advanced than what we found on Leiter's ship, though that could be due to ground versus ship-based systems. But given the distance between Terra and here...." 
      "Any contact is highly unlikely," Pelias said. "Not to mention their contempt for Humans." 
      "Contempt?" Tinia asked. 
      "Yes, Siress," Adama said. "There have been several interrogations of the alien captain and his first officer. The Captain is very contemptuous of Humans, and is quite unrepentant. In fact, we've discovered that he's blackmailed, extorted, and quite possibly murdered his way up the ranks, thanks to his First Officer." 
      "That's not all, Commander," Captain Byrne said. "In my last talk with Petty Officer Clemens, she indicated that his father has protected him, and he used his father's influence not only for promotion purposes, but also to get the Petty Officer as his slave." 
      Lords of Kobol, sounds like Dorian! Adama reflected, recalling momentarily his late, cunningly unpleasant one-time childhood friend.
      "Does she know his position?" Tigh asked. 
      "Colonel, she only knows that he's the equivalent of a Vice-Admiral in the U.S. Navy. She was....punished, to put it politely, if she asked any further questions." 
      Nodding, Adama said, "The First Officer is much more reasonable, and has indicated that their contempt for Humans would easily be transferred to us, given the opportunity." 
      "Commander?" Lydia said. "What do you mean? I'm still hoping that some kind of diplomatic solution may be possible, slim though it may be." 
     "May I, Commander?" Pelias asked, and he saw Adama nod. "Lydia, they've been taught that the Humans of Earth are a race that is spiritually, morally, and technologically inferior to them. Not only that, but it's their official State policy. They even have charts showing the way back to their home world, and Earth as well, but it is very unlikely, at best, that their Supreme Command would share those with us. Any mission to them, hoping for a deal, is doomed to failure. The First Officer indicated that."
      "They don't have diplomats?" Tinia asked. "Or are they of the 'What's ours is ours, and what's yours is negotiable?"
      "That would sum it up, Siress," Adama said. "Though the First Officer put it as "We demand, you obey.' Hardly conducive to getting a deal through." 
      Sarah nodded. "The Ziklagi deal that way as well with others, if you'll recall." 
      "And the Empire," Moray added.
      "So, any diplomatic approach to them is a wasted effort," Xaviar commented. "Not only do we reveal ourselves, but it may make a mission to free the prisoners impossible. They may be moved. Or killed." 
      "Commander," Allen said. "I'll go along with that. I don't think we can risk it." 
     Adama nodded. "I agree, Commander Allen. Now, Doctor Wilker, we'll need additional data on the target system, and I mean every detail possible." 
      "You'll get it, Commander." 
      "And pass it to Major Croft as well," Adama told the scientist. 
     "Of course, Commander."
      "We also need additional information on the aliens' sensor range. We do have data from our two engagements, but with a captured vessel....I want those systems examined. The same goes for his communications equipment." 
     Wilker nodded. "Yes, Commander. I'll have a talk with Chief Twilly." 
      "One other thing, Doctor. Find out if there's a patrol schedule. See how long it'll be before we can expect another visitor."
      "Yes, Sir." 
      "Apollo, Orion," Adama then addressed his fighter commanders. "Maintain the added patrols. We don't need any additional surprises." 
      "Yes, Commander," Apollo replied. 
      "By your command," said Orion. 
       "Fleet alert status?" Baltar asked. 
      "We'll go down to Readiness Level Three, but maintain the added patrols," Adama said, and heads nodded around the table, and on the monitors. 
     "Understood," replied Baltar. 
     "Is there anything else before we adjourn?" Adama asked. He saw Byrne nod. "Captain?" 
     "Commander, I request that Petty Officer Clemens be at tomorrow's briefing. She can give us a first-person account of her experience," Byrne said. "Please remember that she's only been free for three days, and is not used to being in the same room with high-ranking military or civilian personnel." 
      "We'll keep that in mind, Captain," Pelias said. 
      "Of course, Sire," Adama replied with a smile. "Is there anything else?" Heads shook no, both around the table and on the monitors. "All right, then. We're adjourned until 1600 tomorrow." 

      As the meeting broke up, Byrne looked at Sergeant Wagner. "I can tell when you're thinking about something, Sergeant." He saw her look back at him. "What's on your mind?" 
      "Something my World History teacher said, back in High School, talking about Julius Caesar," Wagner replied. 
     "What's that?" 
     "Crossing the Rubicon, sir. I think we've crossed ours, and there's no going back." 
      Byrne thought for a minute. That phrase from his own History courses at Annapolis came back to him as well. That's for sure, Sergeant. We're committed, no doubt about it. In for a penny with her, in for a pound with the others." 
      "No doubt, Sir. Is there anything else you need me for? I want to get back to LifeCenter." 
      "Nothing tonight, though you might want to help the Petty Officer with what she's going to say at the briefing, tomorrow. Like I said, she's never been in a room with this much brass," Byrne said. He smiled, recalling how nervous he'd been, the time he'd delivered a report to the Joint Chiefs. 
      Wagner smiled. "Just like it was with me, after I was thawed. At least those two SOBs are a couple of light-years in our wake," she said, referring to the two traitorous councilmen who'd been very critical of her prior to the Il Fadim affair. "They didn't like it I showed up at a Council meeting to tell my story wearing AF blue." 
     "Yeah," Byrne replied. "Like you said, maybe the lizards there had a good feed. Go on and be with her. After tomorrow, she'll come on over to Constellation." 
     "Yes, sir. But there's one thing we'll have to take care of," Wagner reminded her CO. "Doesn't Jasen need her measurements?" 
     "He does," Byrne remembered. "Not a problem, Sergeant. Just remind me when it's time, and we'll get her scanned." 
     "Yes, sir." 
     "All right, have a good night, and I'll see the both of you tomorrow." 
     "Thank you, sir." 

     Returning to her office, Sarah found some new transcripts awaiting her attention. Though these aliens appeared Human, their behavior reminded her of how the Ziklagi treated subjugated and enslaved races, not to mention those of their own kind deemed "un-persons", and condemned to slavery. Some behavior certainly is universal, to paraphrase a remark that Captain Byrne was fond of saying, she thought. As she read the transcripts, some of it was clearly not that important; the usual concerns about how long they'd be there, the "Te'reans were clearly not what they expected, and so on. But one conversation was clearly military. She grabbed a telecom. "Bridge, this is Academician Sarah. Has the Commander returned from the Ward Room?" 
      "He just arrived," Athena's voice replied. 
      "Athena, can you tell him that I have something new for him? I'm on my way. "
      "Understood." 
      Sarah then grabbed the papers and headed for the Bridge. 

     On the Bridge, Adama was talking to Omega. "Omega, has the Recycling Ship checked out the mine site and where we had the engagement this morning?" 
      "They have, Commander," the Bridge Officer replied. "They found very little at the latter, and what they did find was still radioactive." 
      "No doubt due to the anti-matter reactor going up," Adama mused. "And the mine site?"
      "They were able to get some salvage from there, Commander." 
      Nodding, Adama went to the plot board when Athena called. "Commander, Academician Sarah's on her way. She said she had something new." 
      Curious, Adama asked, "Did she say what it was?" 
      "No, Commander, but she seemed excited, and said she's on her way."
      Just then, Sarah came onto the Bridge. "Commander, this just came off the Languatron matrix." She handed Adama the transcript.
      The Commander read the papers, then looked at Sarah. "You're sure about this?" 
      "Commander, Pliny's senior assistant notes that this has gone through the matrix several times," Sarah replied. "His confidence is high on this." 
      "Commander?" Tigh asked. 
      "It seems that two of the alien officers-one of whom is the navigator, the other the ordnance officer, are talking about the orbital defenses of the world where the slave camp is located," said Adama. "Or more precisely, the lack thereof." 
      "What do they mean by that, Commander?'" Athena asked. She'd overheard the conversation. 
      "What they mean is this: they're complaining that the Capital World, which is not the world we're going after, keeps reallocating defense equipment meant for their colony worlds. They have some kind of defense satellites-no idea what they're armed with, but the satellites meant for this planet have been deployed to defend the Capital," said Adama. 
      "That doesn't make any sense," Tigh said. "If that world has a pair of shipyards, wouldn't they want to give those facilities an adequate defense?" 
      "One would think, Colonel," Adama replied. He turned to Omega. "Get me Doctor Wilker." 
      "Commander," 
       A centon later, the Chief Scientist appeared on a monitor. "Commander?" 
      "Doctor, is there anything in the material so far about orbital defense systems? Or the lack of such systems at the target planet?" 
      "Commander, we have some more material on the planned defense system, but not the one actually deployed. We're working on that right now, along with some additional information on the vicinity of the target camp." 
      "Very good, Doctor. Will that material be ready for tomorrow's briefing?" Adama asked .
     Yes, sir," Wilker replied. "Along with the data on the aliens' scanners and communication systems. I'll be working with Chief Twilly on that, first thing in the morning." 
      Adama nodded. "Keep at it, Doctor." 
      "Yes, sir. Oh, Technician Hummer has something new, from the alien captain's own computer." Wilker stood aside, and Hummer came on screen. 
      "Yes, Technician?" Adama said. 
      "Sir, we've found something on his computer. A banking program. Now, sir, that's nothing new by itself, because we all had those on our personal computers prior to the Holocaust. But with this guy, it is crazy. We've found multiple accounts, seven so far, all under different identities, that track back to him. All plump, if I figure their currency correctly.
      "Some sort of ongoing criminal enterprise?," offered Tigh.
      "Looks like it, sir. And, he's not just managing his own finances, he's keeping track of bribes." 
      Adama looked at Sarah, who didn't seem at all surprised at that news. "Bribes?" 
      "Yes, sir. He's even got notes as to who was getting paid, how much, and when," Hummer nodded.              
 "Members of  their military. Political figures, or so we assume, the works. Sir, back in the Colonies, this is something the Colonial Bureau of Internal Revenue would be drooling over." 
      "And Fleet Legal," Adama said. "All right, thank you, Technician. And Hummer?" 
      "Commander?" 
      "Good work." 
      The tech nodded. "Thank you, Sir." 
      After Adama signed off, he turned to Sarah. "Comments?" 
      "Commander," Sarah replied. "This is all too familiar, with what we know of the Ziklagi. Treachery, blackmail, extortion, and even murder are not unknown in the...their government. Bribery?" She waved her hand. "To them, that's child's play. Notwithstanding certain personages there were known to have a price." 
      "And how can we use this?" Tigh asked. 
      "It's another tool we can use to get him to be more cooperative, Colonel," Adama said. "If we tell him that this information might find its way to his government somehow during this situation, or after it. Possibly even his surviving crewmen, if it comes to that." 
      "He'll do anything to keep that under wraps," Sarah said. "Not unknown in Ziklagi circles." 
     "Or crime bosses back in the Colonies," Adama remembered. "'Do what we tell you to do, or this material winds up in the hands of several security agencies.' A very effective tool, if used properly." 
      He turned back to Sarah. "Thank you, Academician. Let me know if you develop anything further." 
      "Yes, Commander." 
       Tigh looked at his CO. "Commander? How can we use this?" 
      "Simple, Tigh." Adama said. "We tell him that we've recovered this information, and that, one way or another, will see to it that it gets back to his own authorities." 
      "And when he's returned, he faces a Tribunal," Tigh finished. "And given these...people's sense of justice, that leads to one outcome. A bullet in the back of the head, as Captain Byrne would say." 
      "If he wants to avoid that," Adama said. "He'll start talking." 

      Meanwhile, Lauren went back to LifeCenter, and it didn't take much to notice the extra activity, with wards being prepped, extra supplies being stocked, and staff getting ready. When she got to Jessica's ward, Lauren found Cassie just going on shift. "Hi, Cassie." 
     "Sergeant," Cassie replied. "I'll get dinner for both of you. And we're getting ready for the prisoners, when we rescue them." 
     "I noticed," Lauren said. "When's the last time you had to do something like this?" 
     "It's been a while," Cassie admitted. "Refugees like this....probably when we fled the Colonies. And I was a patient that time." 
     "So you told me," Lauren replied. "At least there's only fifty or so." 
     "To be thankful for," Cassie said. "Go right on in, Sergeant. I"ll have your meals for you shortly." 
      Lauren nodded. "Thanks, Cassie." She then went to Jessica's room and went on in. She found her sitting in bed, reading. "Hey." 
     "Hey yourself," Jessica replied. "How'd that briefing go?" 
      "Not bad. They're narrowing down the camp location and the defenses. The map you drew is helping a lot." 
      Jessica smiled. "Thanks. Anything I can do to help." 
      "You'll probably wind up working with Major Croft's people in pre-mission prep. You won't be going, chances are, but you can brief them on the camp, its layout, and so on." 
      "I know," Jessica said. "It would be nice if I could go, but, you're right. But when you do get them out, when they get here..."
      "I know what you're talking about, and I'll take it up with the Captain," Lauren said. "Meanwhile, let's think about tomorrow. Not only are you getting out of here, but..."
      "Yeah, a room full of brass," Jessica nodded. "Any ideas? It's been a long time since I've had to get up in front of a bunch of people and talk." 
     "Just be natural, tell it the way it happened, and go from there. Be prepared for a lot of questions." 
     "Was it the same with you?"
     "It was," Lauren admitted. "Though the meeting was the easy one. A few days later, after I'd gotten my dress uniform from the tailor, and by the way, before we go to Constellation, we'll get you there so we can order your uniforms-" 
     Jessica smiled. "Glad to see I'll be wearing Navy blue again," she said, 'not that this Colonial outfit isn't comfy. Oh, I didn't mean to interrupt." 
     "That's OK," Lauren replied. "Anyway, there was a meeting of their ruling council, and these two Councilmen in particular were pretty hostile to me. They weren't happy that I showed up for the meeting wearing a USAF uniform. They didn't like the Captain or Commander Allen doing the same thing." 
     "These the two slime-lickers who were involved in that terrorist group?" 
     "They were," said Lauren. "They're a couple dozen light-years in this Fleet's wake, and nobody's sad to see them go." 
      "I'll bet," Jessica said. 
      Then the door chime rang, and Lauren said, "Come in!" 
      It was Cassie with two meal trays. "Here you go," she said. "Dinner's served." 
     "Thanks, Cassie," Lauren said. She looked at Jessica, who was staring at her tray. It was her first full meal since being cleared. "Jessica?" 
     "Just thinking," Jessica said. "It's been a long, long, long time since I've had a full meal." She looked at Lauren and Cassie. "Time on the aliens' home planet, time in stasis, time in the camp. Always just enough to keep us going. Keep us working, but never enough. You wanted a full belly, you had to risk stealing it. And that could get you..." Jessica was nearly brought to tears, and she looked at Cassie. "Thank you. Thanks very much." 
     Cassie smiled. "Anytime," she replied. "Enjoy. I'll be on shift, so if you need anything, let me know."
     "Thanks, Cassie," Jessica said. 
     Lauren nodded as Cassie left. "Well, girl, time to dig in."
     Jessica looked at the tray, then at Lauren, and finally, had a grin from ear to ear. "It is that," she said, tearing into the food. 

     The next morning, after his usual light breakfast, and after discussing some minor council business with Sire Pelias and Siress Tinia, Adama went on up to the Bridge. As usual, he found his Exec waiting for him. "Good morning, Colonel, he greeted Tigh, as he logged on.
     "Good morning, Commander," Tigh replied. "The morning status report is ready." 
     "Let's have it, Colonel," Adama said. 
     "First, the miners have moved to that impact crater, and they've started working the Tylium find. The deposits are very accessible, and we'll also have the advantage of having the new mine in a very large crater. Someone would have to know where to look in order to scan for the location." 
     "Very good," Adama replied, as he began scanning a report handed him by Omega. "And we should get enough to top up all of our tanks?" 
      "That's what they say," Tigh said. "The Refinery Ship is moving into position now to start that process. Captain Drake says they will actually be able to set the ship down in the crater, and thus save both time and fuel." 
     "Good," the Commander nodded. "Patrol reports?"
     Nothing since yesterday," Tigh reported. "So far, no sign of additional alien ships. No signals on any frequencies the aliens are known to use." 
     "Maintain the double patrols while we're in the system,"  Adama handed the report back to Omega, and took another from Athena. 
     "Yes, Commander."
     "And what else?" Adama wanted to know. 
      "Doctor Wilker's gone back over to the alien prize, to examine her scanners and communications equipment," Tigh reported. "And the translation and exploitation of the alien documents continues. He indicated that there would be more material for today's briefing." 
     "Excellent," Adama said. "That's it for now?" 
     "It is, Commander," Tigh said. 
     "Thank you, Colonel," Adama nodded. He then gave the data pad to his daughter. "Thank you, Athena." 
  
      Over on the alien prize,  Doctor Wilker was on their Bridge, examining the aliens' communications system and their scanners. For the latter, it was a mix of active scanners that were very similar to the Eastern Alliance's equipment, but not as powerful, along with passive systems. No surprise there, as ground-based scanners had a lot more power available to them, but still, it was similar to what had been on the Destroyer, though their scanner frequencies were different, as were their power setups. Besides the active gear, there was a type of scanner that had been used back in the Colonies, but had largely gone away: what Captain Byrne called LIDAR, or Laser Infrared Detection And Ranging. A mix of laser and infrared technology, blended together, and that, too, had been on the Alliance ship. The passive gear was largely visual-light, thermal imaging, and ultraviolet, designed to maintain a picture around the ship without giving away one's location. Whatever these people might be in terms of their ideology, they were no fools, even if they were nearly three Centi-Yahrens behind the Galactica and the BaseShip. 
     As for the communications gear, it was a mix of gamma frequencies and standard ones, and the former, Wilker found out from, of all people, an alien technician who was helping the Galactica's own computer people navigate the aliens' system, were used to monitor frequencies from Earth and a number of other planets. Though this particular ship hadn't been to Earth, others of its class had, and so this one had the necessary equipment to keep tabs on Humans, when needed. After evaluating the equipment, and checking the alien manuals against a translated copy from the derelict, he was now convinced that the aliens' detection range was at best a third that of the Galactica and the BaseShip. And that would put them well within weapons range of either capital ship. 
      Wilker got ready to leave to return to the Galactica, when the ship's own lighting came back up,
long with several screens, making their work lights redundant. As he moved to another station, Chief Twilly arrived. "Chief. I see the main power is back up."
      "Yes. So, Doc," he nodded, "get what you came for?" 
      "I think so, Chief," the scientist said. "We'll have to analyze all of this back in the lab, but be glad you weren't on this ship when we encountered her. Or the one just destroyed."
      "Why's that, Doc?" 
      "Simple, Chief. You would've hardly known you were under attack while the Galactica and the BaseShip were blasting you to pieces." 
      "That's not good," Twilly said. "You can tell the Commander that we'll have the ship's main maneuver drive fully operational by this time tomorrow. We just got the anti-matter reactor restarted, as you see," he indicated the engineering station, "and the alien engineers say that they need the reactor power for the maneuver drive to work." 
     "How are you getting along with them?" Wilker asked. He'd heard that the aliens on the Galactica were a pretty stubborn bunch, with maybe one or two officers excepted. 
      "Fine," said Twilly. "We're all engineers, and there's one thing that we engineering types like, and it has to be the same all over the universe." 
      "What's that?" 
      "Solving problems." 
      "The same with scientists," Wilker nodded. "Thanks for your help, Chief." 
      "Anytime, Doc." 

     In LifeCenter, Lauren and Jessica had risen, and enjoyed their breakfast. Though it was the usual simple fare of pastries and juice, Jessica had no complaints. She had gone to the head, and looked in the mirror again, and she liked what she saw. She was looking better, feeling better, and hopefully, today, Salik would release her. 
      "Getting nervous?" Lauren asked. It wouldn't be that long until 1600 came along and the briefing. 
      "Yeah," Jessica said. "Never done anything like this before." 
      "Just relax, tell your story, and you'll be fine," Lauren reminded her. "They'll ask you questions, and if something's too painful to talk about, just politely say, 'I'd rather not talk about that.' They'll understand." 
     "If you say so," Jessica said. She was still nervous. "There's one thing I can't figure out." 
      "What?" 
      "The medical exam. They stuck some kind of needle in my belly, and it was hooked up to some wires, and those led to some console. What were they doing? It hurt so much, I was begging them to stop, but they never listened." 
      "We found that out from the stuff that was on the ship I was on. They were giving you a pregnancy test. They did it with me, too," Lauren said. 
      "What were they doing that for?" Jessica asked, confused. 
      "The prison planet they take abductees to after they're finished with them on the home planet has some kind of lab. Wilker said they've taken pregnant women there before," said Lauren, who was not hiding her disgust at all. 
     "God almighty," Jessica replied, shocked at what she'd heard. "How many?" 
     "The lab?" Lauren asked, and she saw Jessica nod. "We don't know. There's several thousand people living in a colony on that prison planet. The aliens set aside space on a continent for them, they've got several settlements, grow their own food, and are largely left alone, but they're still prisoners." 
      "If they're on the way home...."
     "That's a big if, but Adama's said if they are, maybe we can do something to help. Let's hope the Ke'zar wrecked that lab, blew the aliens' home planet all to hell, and made sure they don't threaten anyone else again," Lauren said. "Just as long as they leave the abductee colony alone." 
     "Yeah," Jessica said. "These Ke'zar people...they can kill all the aliens they want, and I won't shed any tears." 
     Lauren nodded. "Glad to see I'm not the only one who has that point of view."
     Then the chime on the door rang. "Come in!" Jessica said. 
     Salik came into the room. "Good morning, both of you, and especially you, Petty Officer. How are you feeling today?" 
     "Fine, Doc," Jessica said. "Had a good dinner last night, and didn't have any problems. My appetite's back, and I'm itching to get out of here." 
      The CMO smiled. "Of course, and the Sergeant here was the same way, when she was rescued." He nodded in Lauren's direction. "I'll give you another exam, and if things check out right, you'll be out of here after lunch." 
     "Thanks, Doc," Jessica said. 
      Salik nodded. "Okay, then. Sergeant, if you'll leave us for a bit, we'll get this over and done with." 
      Lauren smiled. Just like with me, only it was Cassie who did it. "Sure thing, Doc. I'll be back before lunch." 
      "I'll be finished by then," Salik said. 
      Lauren nodded, then left the room so that Salik could perform his exam. The gruff doctor could have fit into any AF unit, she thought, and yet, he had the same concern for his patients that the flight surgeons in the 120th had. She left the room and went to the medtechs' station, where she found Captain Byrne. "Sir!" she said, saluting.
      "Sergeant," Byrne replied as he returned the salute. "How is she today?"
      "Fine, Sir," Lauren said. "Salik's with her right now, her final checkup, and if things go the way we hope they will..."
     "He signs her release papers," Byrne finished. "She ready for the briefing?" 
      "She's nervous, but...Yes, sir. I told her to relax, just tell her story from start to finish, and when it's done, it's done." 
      "And when we're done for today, she gets a beer in the Officer's Club, then over to the Rising Star for her fitting, then to Constellation," Byrne said. "Commander Adama has already approved my request for her transfer to the ship."
     "Sir, if you don't mind my saying this. She deserves it." Lauren said. 
     "That she does, Sergeant. That she does." 

      A couple of centars later, Salik came out of Jessica's room. "Good news. I'll take care of the paperwork, and she'll be free to go." 
     "Thanks, Doc," Byrne said. 
     "I'll send a copy of her record over to Dr. Rena on the Constellation, but other than that," Sailk said. "She can leave anytime." 
     "She'll be glad to hear that," Lauren said. "We'll celebrate over lunch." 
     "First, Sergeant, we have a little business with you," Salik told her. "You still have three injections left in your anti-cancer treatment before we can say you're truly clear." 
      Lauren nodded. "Well...let's get it over with." 
     Salik nodded, and took her into a treatment room. It didn't take long, and she came out, and Byrne said, "Two left." 
     "Yes, sir." Lauren replied. "Guess the two of us will eat, then..."
     "Then go over what she'll say at the briefing. She'll do fine."
     "Yes, sir." 
 
     Time flew, and soon, it was nearly 1600. As the usual principals gathered, either in the Ward Room or via com links, Lauren was one of the first to arrive, escorting Jessica into the room. As people came in, or their faces appeared on a monitor, Lauren explained who they were, and what they did, and so on. "Just relax, take it easy, and when it's your turn, just tell your story, answer any questions, and you'll be fine." 
     "And when we're done?" Jessica asked. 
     "You get a beer in the Officer's Club. How's that for a post-release celebration?" 
     "Officer's Club?" Jessica asked. 
      "Think the Officer's Club on M*A*S*H, without all the crazies," Lauren said. "It's really open to everyone aboard ship, regardless of rank." 
      "Oh." 
      Then Sire Pelias came into the room, with Sire Xaviar and Siress Tinia right behind him, with Salik and Wilker. "Sergeant, and I see the Petty Officer's been released." 
     "She has, Sire," Lauren said. "And Captain Byrne requested that she be assigned to Constellation. Commander Adama says he'll approve the request." 
      "A wise choice," Pelias nodded. "How are you feeling, though, Petty Officer?" 
      "Glad to be off that ship...uh, Sire? And I feel great," Jessica said. "Healthier and with more energy than I've had in ages."
      "Excellent," Pelias said. Then Xaviar and Tinia came over. 
      "So this is the young lady that we've heard about the past two days?" Xaviar said. "A pleasure to meet someone new from Earth," he said, shaking Jessica's hand, and she was almost in shock. 
      "Uh, um...thank you," Jessica replied, still a little shaken. "Sorry...the past three days or so have been pretty, well, it's like a whirlwind. One day, I'm that.....bastard's servant and sex toy, the next..."
      "You're on the Galactica," Tinia said. 
      "Yes, uh....Siress?" Jessica said. Tinia nodded, explaining the Colonial terminology, and social ranking system.
      Then Captain Byrne came in. "Getting to know her, before she tells her story?" 
      "One could say that, Captain," Tinia said. "Though with these alien people...."
      "Expect some unpleasantness," Byrne nodded. "A lot of it, Siress." They turned as Adama, Tigh, and Croft joined their group..
     "Everyone's here, I see. And one more," Adama said, nodding at Jessica. "Be seated, everyone, and we'll get started."Those in the Ward Room took their seats, and Jessica found herself right between Captain Byrne and Sergeant Wagner. "All right, then," Adama said. He nodded to Doctor Salik. "Doctor?" 
      "Commander," Salik nodded. "As you no doubt notice, the Petty Officer has been released, and has been medically cleared." He looked at Jessica, who smiled. "As for the preparations for receiving the rescued prisoners, we're ready. All we need is two centars' advance notice.
     "Very good, Doctor," Adama said. "And the alien Captain?" 
      "His wounds are nearly healed, Commander," Salik replied. "He's still pretty uncooperative with anyone not medical staff." 
     "Keep him in the Security Ward for now, Doctor," Adama ordered. "Unless you hear further from me." 
     "Yes, sir," the CMO said. "Otherwise, that's it for now."
    "Thank you," Adama replied. He gestured to Wilker. "Doctor Wilker?"
     The Chief Scientist stood. "Commander, and everyone. First of all, we have new information on the alien ship. Chief Twilly has restarted the anti-matter reactor, and hopes to have her maneuver drive fully operational sometime tomorrow."
     "What was taking so long?" Pelias asked. 
     "The Cylons' shooting was too good, as he mentioned earlier," Wilker said. "And that we've had two compartments exposed to vacuum near the reactor. Clearing away the wreckage, and repressurizing that section, took longer than expected. He does, however, have a number of the ship's own engineering staff assisting with repairs."
     Xaviar nodded. "First time we've heard of any of these people actually helping on something, even if it is their own ship." 
     "Maybe some of the officers will follow their example," Adama said. "Please continue, Doctor."
     "Yes, sir. I've managed to evaluate the ship's sensors and communications equipment. The sensors, though two to three hundred centi-yahrens behind us, are, by their standard, state-of-the-art. They're a mix of active scanners, LIDAR, and passive systems with visual-light, thermal imaging, gamma, particle, infra-red and ultraviolet sensors." 
     "Their effective range, Doctor?" Baltar asked over the com line. 
     "At best, it's one-third that of either the Galactica or the BaseShip," Wilker replied. 
     "What does that mean, sir?" Jessica whispered to Byrne. 
     "It means that the aliens can be shot before they even see who's doing the shooting," Byrne replied. 
     "So we can kill them before they can see us?" Allen asked. "That's definite?" 
     "It is, Commander Allen," the scientist said. "We can extrapolate the data to give the advantage that Vipers," Wilker nodded at Apollo, "or Raiders have." He nodded at Orion. "The software upgrades should be available in a day or so." 
     "And their communications?" Tigh asked. 
     "A mixed bag. Some gamma frequencies, which they apparently used to monitor Earth's broadcasts, and more standard frequencies, similar to what we use. They have no FTL interstellar communications, however. They can fly faster than they can communicate," Wilker said. "That's definite." 
      "Has this particular ship ever been to Earth?" Allen asked. 
      "Good question, Ced," Byrne said, turning to Wilker. 
      "Not that we've been able to determine," Wilker replied. 
      "I see." Adama said. "Is there any new information on the target planet?" 
      "Yes, sir," Wilker said. He called up a holographic display. "Here, about ten kilometrons north of the military garrison, is an underground command center." 
     "How....?" Jessica whispered to Lauren.  "It's like..."
     "I know, something out of a movie," Lauren whispered back. "You get used to it." 
      "A command bunker?" Adama asked. "For what?" 
      "Their colony's defense forces," Wilker said. "The alien information indicates that it's meant to be fully manned in case of emergency, but operates on a reduced level when there's no alert." 
      "And the rest of their defenses?" 
      "Commander," Wilker said. "There's something interesting." He called up another display. "This alien diagram shows their planned defense system. A mix of orbital and surface defenses. Satellites with lasers or missile launchers, surface-to-space missile sites, and starfighters. However, none of the orbital defenses, nor the heavy missile sites, are in place. And there's no fighter protection." 
      Tigh looked at Wilker. "This is an important world to them, and it's barely defended? Where are they sending those assets?" 
      "I'd like to know that for myself," Croft said. "It's almost as if they're inviting someone to attack." 
     "Those assets went to their capital world," Wilker said. He called up another display. "Here, nineteen point two light-yahrens distant, a G2 class star, similar to their home star-"
     "Or Earth's," Byrne said. 
     "Or Earth's," Wilker agreed. "That's their capital world. This world, and we haven't yet translated the name for it, and a number of others, are considered colony worlds. The bulk of the weapons and equipment manufactured is being diverted there, and the colony planets get whatever is available, when it's available."
     "Defend the Capital world, then," Baltar commented. "And leave the Colony worlds to fend for themselves?" 
     "Looks that way," Apollo said. "Maybe there's no space-faring races in this sector," he continued. "And no reason to have those worlds heavily defended." 
     "Big mistake," Byrne said. "And one day soon, they'll regret it." 
     "And they will," Adama said. 
      "It is most likely that their war consumes inordinate resources," opined Moray. "Consider the wrecked ship discovered previously. A scouting vessel. They are going further afield, likely in search of new sources of raw materials. The logical assumption is that this war goes badly."
     "Yes, Command Centurion," Adama said. "It would explain much."
     "By your command," Moray nodded. 
     "Anything else, Doctor?" 
     "Yes, Commander," Wilker said. He called up the display of the target planet again. "Here, not far from the location we've identified as a command bunker, is another camp. They note that it's for 'Enemies of the Order." 
      Hearing that, Jessica froze, as if the temperature had just dropped twenty degrees. She'd never expected to hear that phrase again. "Uh-Oh." 
     "Jessica?" Lauren asked. 
     "Sorry," Jessica said. "I thought I'd never hear that again." 
     Adama nodded. "Do you know of this camp, Petty Officer?" 
     Jessica nodded. "Yes, sir, I do. A couple years ago, and please bear with me, I'm still not used to your time-keeping." She saw heads around the table nod at that. 
     "Understandable," Adama said. "Please continue, Petty Officer." 
      "Yes, sir. Anyway, I was on a work gang outside the camp, and we were, of all things, picking up garbage alongside a road. We were just about finished for the day when there's this group of prisoners, maybe four or five hundred, and at first, we thought they had more people from Earth, but...it was their own people." 
     "Their own people?" Pelias asked. 
      "Yes...uh, Sire. Their own. And they were a lot worse off than we were. They were all pretty malnourished, some just skin and bones, and they were all carrying tools of one kind or another. Two of them just dropped out, and the guards kicked them back to their feet, and they staggered off with the rest of them. But another one, he just dropped to the ground, and when a guard kicked him, he barely moved. So the guard just put his rifle in the guy's ear and pulled the trigger. Then he told a couple others to pick up the body and bring it along," Jessica said, her voice shaking. "Somebody asked one of our guards who those people were, and he replied, 'Enemies of the Order.' Then they shouted at us to start walking, and they marched us back to camp." 
      "Their own dissidents?" Xaviar asked. "Or criminals?" 
      "Maybe both," Pelias said. 
      "Not unlike the Ziklagi," Sarah, aka Niizaka, noted, speaking for the first time. "Political prisoners, criminals, and slaves, all were expendable." 
      "Who's the Zikagi?" Jessica asked. 
      "A race that we encountered some time ago," Adama said. "And the encounter was most unpleasant, along with the race." He then briefly explained what had happened, and the near loss of the Galactica as a result.
     "Well, Commander," Jessica said. "Those Ziklagi, and these aliens? There's not much they can learn from each other, it seems." 
     "Evidently," Tinia said. 
     "So it would seem," Adama said. "Anything else, Doctor?" he asked Wilker.
     "Not at present, Commander," the scientist replied. "We're trying to nail down some Alien imagery of the target areas, as well as a topographical map of the area in question. Technician Hummer is still working on the alien captain's computer, and should have more for you at tomorrow's briefing." 
     "You got Lemeshik's computer?" Jessica asked. 
     "Yes, we did, as a matter of fact. And we're finding a lot of interesting things," Wilker replied. "You know of some of his...activities?" 
     "All I know is that he's got access to a lot of money, and his father's protecting him somehow," Jessica said. "He didn't like me asking questions..." 
     "Understandable," Tigh said. 
     "Is that all for now, Doctor?" Adama asked. 
     "For now, Commander," Wilker said, sitting down. 
     "Since we've heard from her already, I think it's time we heard Petty Officer Clemens' full story," Adama said. He motioned to her. "The floor is yours." 
      Jessica gulped, and Lauren patted her on the back. "Remember what I said, and you'll be fine. Go get 'em, Tiger." 
      She nodded at Lauren, then said, "Thank you, Commander," Jessica said. She stood up, and as Lauren had told her, she told her story from start to finish. Her drive with her friend Denise, the light in the sky, their car dying, then waking up on a exam table. The medical exam, the interrogation on the ship, being placed in stasis, all were familiar, having heard Wagner's story previously. But what came next was entirely new. 
      Jessica told of being revived and taken off the ship on the aliens' home planet, her arrival at a prison, then her torture at the hands of the alien now known as Scarface, How she had held out, but eventually broken. Then her shock at finding out there were other people from Earth in the prison, their year in captivity there, being taken to the spaceport, and one by one, being loaded onto a ship and placed in stasis again. Only to wake up on yet another alien world, and taken to the camp. And five years of slave labor, and another year as Lemeshik's slave, before her rescue. "And that's it, Commander." 
     "Those rotten, slimy, bastards," Allen hissed. 
      "They told you they'd be returning to Earth?" Tigh asked. 
      Jessica nodded. "Yes, sir. And not just that. One time, Denise and I were on a detail picking up garbage from, of all places, a school. And the teachers brought out their students to watch. We've all picked up some of the aliens' language, and they were telling the kids, 'One day, you will be on Te'rea, and you will be the masters there.' Their propaganda's full of stuff like that, reclaim the home planet, wipe out the Ke'zar, and make 'Te'rea' and a whole bunch of other planets theirs again." 
      "Sounds like North Korea," Byrne muttered to Wagner. 
      "Or Nazi Germany, sir." she replied. 
     "So there's about fifty people there?" Tinia asked. "Earth Humans, I mean?"
      "Yes, Siress," Jessica replied. "Not including the babies." 
      "What?" Apollo asked. 
      "The aliens have been....encouraging the women to get pregnant," Jessica said. "There's several common-law couples, and they're being encouraged to have kids. Last time Lemeshik went to the camp, he brought me along. There were two women who had babies in their arms, and at least two more were pregnant." 
      Though they'd heard it before, when Byrne mentioned it the previous day, those around the table, and on the com link, were still disgusted by what they heard. "How are they 'encouraging' the women, Petty Officer?" Tinia asked, not sure she was going to like the answer. 
     "It's actually easy," Jessica replied. "More heat in the barracks, easier work assignments, that sort of thing. And if they do get pregnant? They get more food, they get excused from work a few days prior to the baby being due, and for thirty days after the baby being born. And the aliens even allowed one of the prisoners, who's a military nurse, to set up a nursery, to care for the babies while their mothers are working." 
     "All the more reason, Commander," Xaviar said. "These people are being kept as breeding stock. Like bovines or porcea. Hit the camp, and free those people." 
      "And we shall, Sire," Adama said. "Petty Officer, you mentioned in our conversation that the commandant of the camp was the same one who interrogated you on the homeworld, correct? The one you called Scarface?" 
      "Yes, sir. He's got total control over all of us there. Every so often, he picks someone for his....fun." She stopped for a moment, remembering her own "discipline" at his hands on several occasions. "I still don't know why he let Lemeshik take me as his slave, though. "
      "Maybe he had a price?" Wagner ventured. "If this guy Lemeshik's conned, blackmailed, bribed, and maybe even killed his way to get ahead, paying a bribe to get a slave...."
      "This piece of garbage must know where the bodies are buried," growled Allen. "I'll wager he's got a hold over this Scarface character. Makes him dance."
     "It's a possibility," Adama noted. "Doctor," he turned to Wilker. "See if any of the Captain's notes on his bribes mention the camp commandant." 
      "I'll let Hummer know, Commander." Wilker said.
      "And how are the prisoners holding up?" Tigh asked. 
      "Sir," Jessica said, "some have resigned themselves to living their lives there. Most are in a survival mode, living day-to-day, but some still have hope that someone will come for them, eventually, and get them out." 
      "Someone will," Croft said. "Commander, get us some more intelligence on the target, and I can have a plan ready to present in a few days." 
      "You'll get it, Major," Adama said. "Petty Officer, I know you're going over to the Constellation, but once you've settled in, I want you to make yourself available to Major Croft. You'll help him in preparing for the mission." 
      Jessica nodded. "Yes, sir. Anything I can do to help." 
     "There's something else she can do, Commander," Wagner said. 
     "What do you have in mind, Sergeant?" Byrne asked. 
      She looked at her CO, then at Commander Adama. "Sir, when we bring those people up from that camp, they're going to be confused, nervous, maybe afraid. If they see a familiar face in the landing bay, waiting for them, someone who can speak their language..." 
      "They'll be more willing to cooperate, and not likely to panic," Salik finished. "Commander, she's right." 
      "We'll make those arrangements when the time approaches." Adama said. "It's an excellent suggestion. Good thinking, Sergeant." 
      Wagner nodded, and her CO smiled. "Sir," she nodded. 
      "Thank you, Petty Officer," Adama said. "I realize much of what you've told us has been painful, but the more information we have, the sooner we are to getting your friends out of that camp." 
      Commander," Jessica nodded. "Again, sir, whatever I can do to help make that happen." 
      "Very good," Adama replied. He turned to Apollo. "Apollo, continue to coordinate with Orion. Maintain the level of patrols in the system." 
      "Yes, Commander," Apollo said. 
      "By your command," Orion replied. 
      "We'll maintain the current alert level of the Fleet, and we should be ready to move once our refueling's completed." 
      Tigh and Baltar nodded. 
     "Major," Adama said to Croft. "Put a list together of what else you need to get a plan together to raid that camp." 
      "Yes, Commander," the SF Major replied. "I'll have that for you tomorrow." 
      "Excellent," Adama said. "Is there anything else?" He noted that for once, Lydia was silent. "In that case, we're adjourned for now." As they filed out, Adama motioned Byrne over. Clemens as well. 
     "Commander?" asked Byrne.
     Adama handed Byrne a data chip. 'It's official as of now. Petty Officer Clemens is formally assigned to the Constellation." 
     "Thank you, Commander," Byrne said. 
     Adama turned to Clemens. "Welcome aboard, Petty Officer." 
     "Thank you, sir," Clemens replied. 
     "Dismissed." 


     After the briefing, Byrne, Wagner, and Clemens headed for the Officer's Club. For the Petty Officer, it was yet another insight into just how large the Galactica truly was. "My God...sir, this ship....she's, well....huge! I mean I've been aboard a carrier before, sir. My boyfriend, back home. He was on the Eisenhower, but the size of this ship...."
     "She is that," Byrne nodded. "And every time we come aboard, we're still in awe of her. Isn't that right, Sergeant?" 
    "Yes, sir, it is," Wagner said. "And just think, there used to be a whole lot more of these." 
     "Yeah," Byrne said. "Losing a war is a whole different story out here," he noted. "Back home, you get kicked out of whatever country you occupied, and maybe your leader goes into exile. Here, it's total annihilation." 
     "How bad was it, sir? Jessica asked. 
     We've got some stuff on the Constellation to show you. But put it this way: there were twenty billion people or so in the Colonies before that day. The following day, in this fleet, there were seventy thousand," Byrne said. 
     "God almighty..." Clemens said. "And anyone who couldn't get to a ship?"
      "The Cylons were getting ready to land their troops when the last ships were escaping," Wagner said. "A good friend of mine now, on Constellation, said that as her ship was leaving, they saw a Cylon BaseShip launching its landing barges. They were putting boots on the ground, and their orders would be pretty simple: extermination." 
    "Ugh," Clemens said. "So this is it, for the Colonials?"
     "You got it," Bryne said. "Except for possibly one Battlestar still out there." He explained the story of the Pegasus, as Sheba had told him once. 
      "It all feels like a bad movie," Clemens said. "But it's not, it's real, and so..."
     "And so it is," Byrne nodded. They came to the Officer's Club. "Here we are." The trio went inside, and found several of their Colonial friends at a table. Apollo, Sheba, Boomer, and Starbuck, along with Sargamesh and Korl, were there, and they waved. Byrne and Wagner waved back, then the trio went to the bar, with Freeman tending bar. "Freeman," Byrne nodded. 
     "And what'll it be for ya today, Captain? And Sergeant Wagner I see, and who's the lovely lady with you?" 
     "Freeman, meet Petty Officer Jessica Clemens, U.S. Navy. She's the woman found on that alien ship Croft and his boys boarded." 
     "Pleased to meet ya," the ex-Proteus prisoner replied, shaking her hand. "Anyone who came out of something like that..."
     "Thank you," Jessica said. 
     "For her, Captain, the first drink's on the house."
     "In that case, Freeman, three beers," Byrne said. "Mine and the Sergeant's, on my tab." 
      "You got it, Captain." The barkeep went and drew the beers, and slapped three glasses on the bar.             
     "Here ya go, Captain." 
      "Thanks," Byrne said. "Well, how about a toast?" 
      "To what? Uh, Sir?" Wagner asked. 
      "I've got an idea," Jessica said. "To freedom. Not just me, but soon, my friends as well." 
      "Hear, hear," Byrne said. 
      Clink.
 "Come on," Byrne said, after a deep draft, "there's some folks I'd like you to meet. And vice-versa." He brought Jessica over to the table where Apollo and company were sitting. "Got room for three more?" 
 "Anytime, Captain," Apollo said. 
 "First, introductions," Byrne nodded. "May I introduce Petty Officer Jessica Clemens, U.S. Navy. Apollo met her at the brief, but for you all..." And hands were shaken all around. When it was the turn of the two Zohrloch, Jessica was surprised, but when she was told that they had come out of an experience similar to hers, she felt more at ease.
      After everyone sat down, Apollo asked Jessica, "Why don't you tell your story to the rest of us?"
      She nodded, took a deep breath, and told those around the table what had happened to her, and what she knew had happened to those at the camp. And for those who hadn't heard the story, they were shocked. Especially about the aliens "encouraging" the female prisoners to have children. 
      "These dishonorable......Calling them scum would be too complimentary," Sargamesh said. "They need their hearts torn out, and their heads ripped from their shoulders!" At the same time, his fellow Zohrloch, Korl, muttered some curses that would've shorted out a Cylon at the very least. 
     "Lords of Kobol," Sheba said. "So we're going after those in the camp?" 
     "That's about it," Apollo nodded. "All we need is some more intelligence, and yeah, that mission's a go." 
    "I don't get it," Starbuck wondered. "Why didn't they send you and the others to that prison planet?" 
     Jessica shook her head. "That, I don't know." 
    "Maybe because it had been overrun already," Boomer offered. "They may have known by then that their war's on the verge of being lost, so they start their own exodus." 
    "Knowing what we do know now?" Wagner asked. "No surprise there." 
      "Do we know what happened in the war?" Sheba asked. "Battlefronts and other specifics?"
     "Not yet," Apollo said. "Wilker's still busy getting the information we need to mount this rescue operation. But after that, we should find out." 
     "There are children there?" Korl asked. 
     Jessica looked at the Zohrloch, and nodded. "There were at least two, and two of the women were pregnant, the last time I was there. In the interim, who knows?" 
     "Not just that," Wagner said. "The guy I'm looking for? He's the camp commandant." 
     "What's the saying?" Sheba asked. "Two birds with one stone?" 
     "That's it," Byrne said. "We not only free those prisoners, but also get this animal." 
      "Alive or dead?" Boomer asked. 
      "His choice," Wagner said. "I still want him dead, but as the Captain said, 'it's hard to interrogate a corpse.'" 
      "I want him dead," Jessica said firmly. "There were a dozen times where I met him and it was...." She closed her eyes and shook her head. "Sorry..." 
      "It's okay," Lauren gave her a hug. "If we can take him alive, fine. Even a slimeball deserves a day in court. If not, well, that's his problem." 
      "Good enough for me," Byrne said. 
     "Not just him," Jessica said. "Several of the guards are pretty nasty. To them, we're a bunch of inferiors and heretics, and they can do whatever they want, and if they are having a crappy day, they take it out on whomever is within reach." 
      "Then they will be taught a lesson they will not soon forget," Sargamesh said. 
      "Believe it or not, their own people think the same way," Jessica nodded. She told the story of the garbage detail at a school, and the teachers bringing their students to watch. 
      Boomer looked at her. "Their propaganda's that bad?" 
     "It is. They keep telling us that one day, they'll return to Earth, and we'll thank them for it." 
     "The alien captain's the same way," Lauren said. "I interrogated him, and he's convinced that if they do return to Earth, they'll be greeted with open arms." 
     "Did you tell him we'd fight?" Byrne asked, and saw her nod. "What'd he say to that?" 
     "I got the impression it had never occurred to him," Lauren replied. "When I told him we'd fight, even if it was using nuclear weapons or fighting a guerrilla war, he couldn't believe it." 
     "Total ideologue," Sheba observed. "And dedicated to their regime." 
     "No argument with that," Byrne agreed. "It's like bin Laden and his fellow cockroaches, after 9/11. They were utterly convinced people would flock to their cause." He saw some blank stares, and explained the terror attacks on the Twin Towers. "People like that can never grasp that they aren't seen as liberating heroes."
     "Like the Soviets, in Eastern Europe," said Wagner.
    "So," Apollo said, changing the subject, "She's going over to Constellation?" 
    "I am," Jessica said. "As the Captain said, I'm back in the Navy."
    "Got the orders signed, sealed, and delivered by the Commander," said Byrne.
     "Excellent news," said Korl. "A place, and a purpose."
    "Wouldn't have it any other way," Byrne said. 
      
     After some more conversation, and another beer, it was time to head on over to the Rising Star. For Jessica, the ride on the Armstrong was a thrill, though she knew she'd better get used to it. And she saw the Fleet for the first time. "God...so they packed up what was left of their civilization, and...Sir, it's like a wagon train in space." 
     "Don't think I've used that analogy before, but yeah," Byrne nodded. "They can travel only at the speed of the slowest ship in the Fleet. Sort of like convoy duty on Earth." 
     "And there she is," Ensign Adele pointed to a ship they were closing in on. "The Rising Star." 
      "Holy..." Jessica stopped as her jaw dropped. "How can they build them so big?"
      "Just wait until you get aboard," Byrne said. 
      After docking, the trio of Earthers headed for the shopping deck. When the elevator doors opened, Jessica's jaw dropped again. "God, sir....it's bigger than any shopping mall I've seen back home." 
      "It is that," Byrne said. "Come on." 
      He led the two women to the tailor's shop, and found Jasen behind the counter. "Ah, Captain Byrne!" The tailor greeted him warmly. "And Sergeant Wagner, I see." She nodded. "And this must be the young lady the Captain told me about." 
      "She is," Byrne said. "Jasen, this is Petty Officer Jessica Clemens." 
 "A pleasure," Jasen said, nodding. "Come, I'll get your measurements, and you can see what I've done so far." 
      Jessica looked at Byrne and Wagner, and both nodded. Jessica went with the tailor, and after a few centons, came back out, smiling. "He said he'll have the coveralls and the dress whites ready in a day or two." 
     "That fast?" Lauren asked. "With me, it took a few days at least." 
     "The initial information Captain Byrne gave me wasn't that far off," Jasen said. "The blues, though, will take longer, of course, along with the civilian clothes. But all should be done in a few days."
     "Good," Byrne said. He took two bottles out of a bag he'd been carrying. "Here you go." 
    "Thank you, Captain," the tailor replied. "I still have a bottle saved from the last time." 
    "It's enough?" 
    "More than enough, Captain," Jasen said. "Always a pleasure doing business with you." 
     "Thanks, Jasen, and one other thing?" Byrne asked. 
      "Captain?"
      "Keep her existence as quiet as possible. I'll explain when we pick up the order, but right now, finding out IFB knows about her is the last thing we want. Or she needs." 
      "Understood," Jasen nodded. "I won't tell a soul." 
      "Thanks, Jasen," Byrne said, and the two shook hands. 
      As the trio left, Byrne and Wagner were tempted to take Jessica to Rogellio's for some Java, but the need to keep Jessica's existence a secret nipped that idea in the bud. So they went back to the docking bay, where Adele was waiting with the Armstrong. They quickly got aboard, and after Adele fired up the engines and received clearance, headed to Constellation. When the shuttle got within visual range of the former Zykonian blockade runner, Byrne took Jessica up forward to have a look. "My God...," she said. "She's bigger than a carrier." 
      "Over a thousand feet long," Byrne said. "Not as heavily armed as the Galactica or the BaseShip, but she can take care of herself."
      "She sure looks it."
     "She's already proven herself in combat, too. Once you're settled, you can review the logs."
     "Thank you, sir. Uhh..Sir, can I ask a question?" 
      "Ask away," Byrne said. 
     "What's IFB?" Jessica asked. 
     "Their news and entertainment service," Lauren said. "Their entertainment shows are all right, but their news style? Forget it! Think tabloid TV back home." 
     "She's right about that," Byrne said. "They can be like a bunch of hyenas." 
     "Sir, vermin would be more like it." Wagner offered. "Think Sixty Minutes meets Jenny Jones."
      Jessica nodded. "Oh. I see. " 
    "Better get strapped back in," Adele told them "We're cleared to land." 
     The shuttle flew into the docking bay, and after it landed, Byrne looked out a window. Mr. Dante, Mr. Malik, and Jen were there, waiting. "All right, let's go." The hatch opened, and he nodded to Mr. Dante. "Permission to come aboard?" 
      "Permission granted, Sir," Dante replied, saluting. 
      Byrne shook hands with Dante and Mr. Malik, and hugged his daughter. "Get all your homework done?" 
      She rolled her eyes. "Yes, Pop." 
    "Got someone for you to meet," He nodded at the shuttle, and Lauren came off, with Jessica right behind her. And she was staring wide-eyed at the activity in Constellation's docking bay. Lauren brought her over, and Jessica met Mr. Dante and Mr. Malik, who nodded, and then Jen. "Jen, here's your new roomie. Jen, this is Petty Officer Jessica Clemens." 
      Jen came up and hugged her new roommate. "Nice to meet you." 
    "Nice to meet you, too." Jessica said, returning the hug. 
    "Come on," Byrne said. "Mr. Dante, she'll need a couple days to settle in, then she'll be busy with Major Croft, but we'll need to find a job for her aboard ship." 
     "We'll see what we can find, Captain," Dante said. 
     "We can always use another gunner," Malik said. 
     "He's the gunnery officer," Byrne said. "And he's always looking for new talent. "Come on. Jen and Sergeant Wagner will show you around, then to the cabin." 
     "Aye, aye, sir," Jessica said. "Boy, do I have a lot to learn."

     
      After a tour of the ship, which included the crew mess, as well as the common room with its memorial to Jacobi. the crewman lost in the Otaligim encounter, Lauren and Jen took Jessica to their cabin. When she arrived, Jessica was surprised. She, a mere Petty Officer, had a cabin next to the Captain! And it was so roomy!
     "Who'd this cabin belong to?" she asked Jen. 
     "It belonged to the first mate, who was just much a pile of scum as his captain," Jen replied. She explained Krylon, the vicious Zykonian crime lord, and their encounter with him on RB-33 "He killed my mom, and some time back, at a space station, where we found Commander Allen, I killed him." 
     "I wasn't there," Lauren said. "But that space station was like Dodge City in space. Or think Mos Eisely in Star Wars, only worse. At least, that's what the Captain and Commander Allen say." 
     "So, you got the ship that belonged to this guy?" Jessica asked, sitting down on her bunk. "This Krylon guy?"
     "Three, actually," Jen said. "This one, the Adelaide, and the Caspia."
      "Captain Byrne will tell you the story over dinner," Lauren said. "One thing we all do is have dinner together. The three, correction now, four of us from Earth, and some of our shipboard friends." 
     "Oh, okay." Jessica said, looking around. "Hard to believe. I actually have a bunk and there's no restraints." She looked at her two roommates. "Every night on that ship, I had to sleep with my legs chained to the bed." 
     "You don't have to worry about that," Jen smiled. "And one advantage this ship has over almost all the others...." 
     "What's that?" 
     Jen and Lauren smiled. "Have a look." Jen opened the door to the head. "Private head, washroom, and shower. And there's no limit on water usage." 
      "Most of the ships in the Fleet have to ration water. They weren't meant for long cruises," Lauren explained. "This type of ship was different."
     Jessica was nearly brought to tears. "All that time in the camp....you had a shower maybe once a week, only a few minutes, and even then the water was barely warm."  She looked at Lauren and Jen. "Do you mind?" 
     The other two looked at each other and grinned. "Go right ahead," Lauren said. "We've got time before dinner, and you can take all the time you want." 
      Jessica smiled, and took off her Colonial uniform. "Thanks. I'm going to do just that." She stepped into the shower and turned on the hot water.
      "Well, Roomie?" Jen asked, closing the door. 
     "We're going to get along just fine," Lauren said. "We'll explain everything at dinner." 
      "I know the basics," Jen replied. "Pop told me when he came back from the Galactica after the battle." 
      "She's going to tell her story over and after dinner," Lauren nodded. "You might want to hold onto the contents of your stomach after she finishes." 
      Jen understood and nodded. "You look at her as if 'that could have been me.' And I can tell by looking at you." 
     "Yeah. If the ship I had been on hadn't been caught in that battle....."
     "You might have wound up with her. And the others." Jen finished. 
     "Not a happy thought," Lauren said. "You're probably right, though." 

     After her shower, and feeling more refreshed than she'd been since her abduction, Jessica was ready for dinner. Lauren took her to the Captain's cabin, where they were joined by Mr. Dante and Mr. Malik,
while Jen put the finishing touches on dinner. During and after the meal, conversation was unrestrained, stories exchanged,, and everyone knew where Jessica was coming from. Also, Captain Byrne explained what had happened with the Saint Brendan, and the circumstances of Jen's birth, the loss of her mother, and their eventual rescue by the Colonials. But it was Jessica's story that had the dinner party spellbound. 
      "Lords," Dante said when she was finished. "We're going after the rest of the prisoners, Captain?" 
      "Right on that, Mr. Dante." Byrne replied. "Nobody gets left behind." 
      "Totally dishonorable," Malik said. "As far as I am concerned, whatever comes to these.....people, they richly deserve." 
      "Sargamesh and Korl were a lot more expressive than that," Wagner nodded. "But you're right."
     "Kids?" Jen was horrified. "The aliens force the women to have kids?" 
     "It's more a form of encouragement," Jessica said. "More food, more heat in the barracks, easier work details, that sort of thing. Nobody's been forced to get pregnant, at least, as far as I know. I wouldn't want to bring a kid into the world under those circumstances." 
      "There's also a camp for their own prisoners? Dante asked. "Political dissidents?" 
      Jessica nodded. "Yes, sir. And they're worse off than we were." She explained what she had seen along the road. 
      "And the....animal I'm looking for is the Camp Commandant," Lauren said. "One way or another, he'll be getting his." 
      "Dead or alive?" Malik asked. 
     "His choice," Lauren replied. "I'd like him dead, but it's so hard to interrogate corpses." She looked at Jessica. "Though our new crew member has her preference." 
      "You want him dead," Malik said, turning to Jessica. It wasn't a question.
      "Not just for what he did to me, but for what he did to my friends, to Lauren, and who knows how many others?" Jessica said. 
     "There are those who would serve the universe best by leaving it," Malik nodded. "This....scum is one such individual." 
      "No arguing that, Mr. Malik," said Byrne. "Now, Mr. Dante, the Petty Officer will be busy assisting Major Croft and his SF people with mission prep after she's had a day or two to get settled in. A permanent duty assignment can wait until after this is resolved. 
      "Yes, sir," Dante nodded. 
      "Mr. Malik," Byrne addressed his gunnery officer. "You said you're always looking for a new gunner, if the Petty Officer so chooses, you've got one." 
      Jessica smiled at that. "Sir, I want to wait until this is all over, but I'd like that." 
     "Done," Byrne said. "Mr. Malik, you can start training her when this situation is taken care of." 
      Malik nodded. "Of course, Captain." 
     "Now, Mr. Dante," Byrne turned back to his Exec. "Start prepping to have another twenty or thirty people aboard. Talk to Mr. Dilley, and start getting space ready." 
     "Yes, Sir," Dante said. "But what do I tell him?" 
     "Tell him we're helping relieve some Fleet overcrowding. Or any other cover story for that matter. I'll bring him in on it in due time, but for now, we have to keep this under wraps. Especially the Petty Officer's presence in the Fleet. Remember that she's only four days removed from a horrific experience, and the last thing she needs is an IFB crew following her around the next time she goes to the Rising Star." 
      "Understood, Captain," Dante replied. "The rest are going to the Adelaide, I take it?" 
      Byrne nodded. "Correct, Mr. Dante." 
     "I'll speak to him first thing in the morning, sir." 
      "Good," said Byrne. "Now, we've had enough shop talk for one night. It's time for a movie." Heads nodded at that. "Jen, take your new roomie to the movie library, and let her pick a title. It's her first movie-apart from whatever propaganda trash the aliens showed the prisoners-in a very long time." 
     Sure thing, Pop," Jen replied. "Come on, Jessica, and see what you like." 
     "What have you got from 1990 or 1991?" 
      "Let's see..." Jen said, looking over the titles. 
      "Hey, here's one...Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves," said Jessica. 
     "Whatever you want," Jen said, looking at her father, who nodded. "Guess we got our feature."
     "All right, then," Byrne said. Pull up a chair, sit back, and enjoy." 

     The next morning, on Constellation, since Jessica had no duties until Croft wanted to pump her for information, both Jen and Lauren decided to let her sleep. They quietly went about their morning routine, and after Lauren went off to the Security Office, Jen logged into the online education system. Great, she thought. Whoever teaches their physics course is quiz-happy. Oh, well...at least it's open book. She gathered her notes, then went about taking the quiz. She was just about finished when Jessica finally woke up. "Good morning," Jen said. 
     "This is only the fourth good morning I've had in a long time," Jessica said, looking around. "Where's Lauren?" 
     "On duty, as of 0800. She went to the Security Office. She's Master-at-Arms, remember?" 
     "Oh, yeah. She told me," Jessica said. "What's got you so busy?" 
     "Schoolwork. I'm in the process of getting what on Earth would be my High-School diploma," Jen replied. "But as Pop said, no dances, clubs or anything like that. It's all online." 
     "At least you have a boyfriend," Jessica said. 
     "Who told you that?" Jen replied. 
     "Lauren told me. That Sire...uh...Pelias guy." 
     "Oh," Jen said. 
     He's cute," she winked.
     "I think so."
     "Well, in that case..."
     "In that case...we're just dating. Nothing more than that right now. But he did tell me one thing." 
     "What's that?" 
     "Pelias said that Pop had told him that if he made me cry somehow, Pop would make him cry. And he meant it." 
     "Sounds like my dad, " Jessica said. "He said the same thing to my boyfriend back in High School." She was eying the pastries and juice on the cabin's small table. "This mine?" 
     "Yeah," Jen nodded. "Go right ahead."
     "Thanks," Jessica said. "It'll be a while before I get totally used to doing things without asking permission. Or if I did do something, getting smacked around because some guard or that....SOB Lemeshik didn't like it." 
    "Well, it won't be long," Jen said. "Soon, we'll get your friends out, and we'll all be going home." 
     "You were born on that planet, right? The one your dad said broke up?" 
     "Yeah, but as far as I'm concerned, and Pop as well, Earth is home," said Jen. 
     "And what do you want to do when we get home?" Jessica asked. 
     "Go to Annapolis," Jen said proudly. "Pop graduated from there, and if we get there in time before I'm too old, I want to go there." 
     "And since we'll all probably get whatever we want," Jessica commented. "They'll probably guarantee a slot for you." 
     "That's what he said." 

     On the Galactica, Commander Adama had his usual light breakfast, then after discussing some Council business with Sire Pelias and Siress Tinia, and that included what to do with fifty-odd people from Earth who'd be in the Fleet, and how their interests would be represented. Since the young Sire already did so with the Earthers already in the Fleet, as well as the Zohrloch refugees, he offered to do so, until other arrangements could be made. That settled, the Commander headed to the Bridge, where he logged in, and found Colonel Tigh waiting. "Good morning, Colonel." 
     "Good morning, Commander," the Exec nodded. "The morning status report is in." 
     "Go ahead," Adama nodded, as Athena gave him a pad. 
     "First, the mining operation is fully underway. We should have our tanks filled to capacity in four days."
     "Unless our....friends have other plans," Adama said. He signed the report, then handed the pad back to his daughter. "Thank you, Athena. What's next?" 
     "Patrol reports continue to show the system clear, and the surrounding space for a full parsec's radius. And no transmissions of any kind on the aliens' frequencies." Tigh reported. 
     "Very good," Adama replied. "Still.....keep the double patrols while we're here." 
     "Yes, Commander," Tigh nodded. "Also, Doctor Wilker says that he has new information, both on the target planet, and on the alien captain." 
     "He'll have that for this afternoon's briefing?" 
     "Yes, Commander." 
     "Good. Once we have that, another chat with the alien captain is in order," Adama mused. "Confronting him with the contents of his personal computer might just get him to open up." 
     "Possibly, Commander," Tigh said. "He may wonder, though, how we'd get that information to his own authorities." 
     "The first officer, Tigh," Adama said as Omega gave him a pad. "He indicated that the captain has disgraced both the uniform, and his office. Perhaps giving him copies to give to their authorities after this incident is resolved would do." Adama nodded, signed the pad with a stylus, and said, "Thank you, Omega." 
     "Commander," the bridge officer replied. 
     "Perhaps," the Exec nodded. 
     "Anything else?" 
     "Major Croft will have his intelligence requirements ready as well," Tigh said. "And that's it for this morning." 
     "Thank you, Colonel." Adama nodded. 

      In Wilker's lab, Hummer was going over the alien captain's records. Not only his finances, but also his service record. So far, nothing in the alien's service record indicated anything that would warrant Captain Byrne calling in Sire Solon, though he'd heard a rumor that the Earthers were considering filing charges against the alien for keeping the rescued Earth woman as his slave. Though knowing what he did about Wagner, she'd probably think any Tribunal a waste of time, and just summarily kill the man. Not that he didn't deserve it....The alien's finances, though...they were interesting. 
      "Let's see..." Hummer said to himself. "Ah..." A record of transactions from the previous yahren (their yahren being slightly shorter than the Colonial Standard, and their main currency unit, the drak'ht, being roughly equal to 2.67 cubits) had come up, and sure enough, there was something that Commander Adama had wanted. "Doc?" He called Wilker. "Could you come over here for a centon?" 
     "What have you got?" Wilker asked. 
      "Have a look. It's the alien captain's bribe list from last yahren." 
      Wilker looked at the list. "Lords of Kobol..." He whistled. "Where's he getting the money?" 
      "Nothing to indicate that. Isn't his father some kind of high-ranking officer?" 
     "That's what the hostage said," Wilker nodded. "He may have access to the family fortune." 
     "Maybe," Hummer said. "Or the key card to their Central Bank. But look here. There's an entry for someone named Tsernava, and then there is another one. Same name. There's a note, and it translates as 'Reviewed merchandise, and selected product. Entirely satisfactory,' Doc," Hummer said. "This might be the Camp Commandant." 
      "Probably so," Wilker said. "Anything else?" 
     "Yeah, there is, Doc." Hummer said. "I've cross-checked that name with the alien material we've translated so far, and this came up. It was an officer's list. All of their officers assigned to the colony."
     "Any name for the world yet?" 
     "Not yet," Hummer said. "Still some words to crack."
     "I'll ask Pliny again," Wilker nodded. "Go ahead, what was it?" 
     "Here, the officer's list. This Tsernava guy is listed as 'Commandant, Special Camp One.'" 
     "There's another camp, though," Wilker reminded the tech. "You sure this is the one we're looking at?" 
      "I'm pretty sure, Doc. We've also got his diary. There, he mentions two visits to 'Special Camp One.' He's also bragging about having a slave from the camp as his own." 
      "Good work. Print that out, and get it ready for the briefing." 
      "Will do, Doc," Hummer said. 

     Aboard Constellation, Jessica was settling in, and she noticed that Jen was a pretty serious student. No wonder, she thought. If she wants to go to Annapolis, she'd better be. Then it was time for lunch. "What do you guys do for lunch?" 
     "Oh," Jen replied. "I can go and get us something from the Crew Mess," she said. "You hungry?" 
     "Yeah. There, you're always hungry. I guess my stomach is still on prison camp time. They feed us enough to work, and keep us relatively healthy. But it's never enough. The only ones who get full meals are the...."
      "Pregnant women?" Jen asked. 
      "Lauren was right," Jessica said. "You're smarter than a normal teenager." 
      "Considering how I grew up, knowing how to field-dress a buffalo, shoot an assault rifle, learn how to fly a space ship, and so on," said Jen.
     "You had to be," Jessica nodded. "No choice." 
     "Well, Mom was a genius scientist. Dad says I get it from her," Jen replied. "Anyway, I'll bring you back something." 
      "Whatever you're having is fine by me," Jessica said.  
      Then the cabin door opened. Lauren was there with two large bags. "Hey guys, I brought you two lunch. Outer space food to go."
      "Thanks, Lauren," Jessica said. She tore into the food. "One thing's for sure: I never want to go hungry ever again." 
      "Don't blame you at all." Lauren said as she and Jen started eating. 
      "So, Lauren," Jessica asked. "How busy are you now that those crazies are several light-years behind you?" 
     "Not much, I'll admit," Lauren said. "Things have settled down a lot. One of my men, he used to be a cop himself back in the Colonies-had a post-case letdown. He used to be a homicide detective, and he was glad to be back at his old job." 
      "I'll bet. So what is it now?" 
      "Mostly it's the civilians," Lauren nodded between bites. "Domestic disturbances, or parents upset that their kids are 'seeing the wrong type', things like that. After Laban, I don't think we've had anyone in the brig, except one guy who needed to sleep it off." 
     "Glad it's that way?" Jessica asked. 
      "I am," Lauren admitted. "I usually have a walk around the ship, beginning and end of watch, and more often than not people will ask me-or one of my men, to help settle some kind of dispute. It's the civilians for the most part. But they're glad to have someone willing to listen, and be a fair judge." 
     "Civilians on a warship..." She shook her head.
      "No choice in that," Jen said. "We need to show you what they showed us." 
      "Not just that," Lauren added. "But some of the ships in the Fleet were literally pulled from junkyards. They shouldn't even be flying. Even the Galactica has civilians aboard, though they're almost all military dependents." 
    "I understand," Jessica nodded. "How is Major Croft going to want to talk with me? 
      Lauren knew where she was taking this. The last thing any of them wanted was someone noticing Jessica going to and from the Galactica via shuttle, and if that someone alerted IFB....."Probably via the com line. There's a hookup in the Captain's cabin, a secure line to the Galactica, and you can talk that way. Until they actually need you over on the Galactica."
    "Oh." 
     "Remember: you're the only person in this Fleet who knows that place, other than your ex-captor, and he's not talking." Lauren said. 
     "He won't," Jessica said. "No matter what you've got on him, he's convinced that even if their own authorities find out, his dad's going to protect him." 
     "His dad?" Jen asked. "What do you mean?" 
      Jessica looked at her new roomie. "His dad's the equivalent of a Vice-Admiral in their Star Force, and he's been protected by his father. He's got access to a lot of money, and that's all I know. Having an open mouth..."
      "Got you a beating," Jen finished. "Talk about nepotism!" 
      Jessica nodded. 
     "Well.." Lauren said. "I'll find out if they need you for the briefing today. You might want to make yourself available, just in case." 
     "Will do." 
     "Anyway," Lauren said. She went to a drawer and pulled out several data chips. "Here's what they showed us. It's about what they call the Holocaust, and their flight from the Colonies." 


    After lunch, Lauren went to the Bridge, and found the Captain talking over something with Mr. Dilley, the damage-control officer. Dilley nodded at whatever the Captain said, then he left the Bridge. Then she caught the Captain's eye, and he motioned her over. "Sir?" 
     "Sergeant," Byrne asked. "What's on your mind?" 
      "Sir, do we need Petty Officer Clemens for the briefing?" 
     "To be honest, Sergeant, I think we'd better have her there. Unless they tell us otherwise ahead of time." Byrne said. "There may be questions that come up that only she can answer." 
     "We're taking part via the hookup?" 
     "That we are. Have her there prior to 1600," Byrne said. 
     "Yes, sir," Lauren said. "Sir, I forgot to ask: does her wardrobe order include some workout clothes?"  
     "That it does, Sergeant," Byrne said. "What do you have in mind?" 
     "Sir, one thing to take her mind off what's happened to her, and get rid of the stress she's going through at the same time is....."
     "Time in the ship's gym," Byrne finished. "Good idea, Sergeant. She gets rid of some pent-up anger, and gets in shape at the same time." 
      Wagner nodded. "Thank you, sir." 


     Soon, it was nearly 1600, and Lauren had had her time in the ship's gym with Mr. Malik as a sparring partner. After a quick shower, she took Jessica next door to the Captain's cabin, via the smuggling compartment that connected the two. "A smuggling compartment? This is something out of Star Wars. All we need is our very own Han Solo."
     "Meet Starbuck yet?" Lauren asked. 
      "I heard about him," smiled Clemens.
     "Anyway, what was the saying back home?" Lauren asked. "Science fiction becoming science fact?" 
     Jessica laughed. And to Lauren, that was the first time she'd laughed about something since she was rescued. "I guess so. I had a look at the videos on those chips. My God....you weren't kidding. And this Baltar guy.....that BaseShip is his?" 
     "Yeah," Lauren said. "Captain Byrne's had to deal with him on a couple of occasions, and he lives up to his end of the detente, but that doesn't mean he's Mr. Popular. A lot of people still want him dead."
     "Don't blame them at all," Jessica said. "He sold their entire people out to a race of murderous robots. No surprise folks want him dead." 
     Lauren opened the door to the Captain's Cabin, and they found Byrne there, waiting. "I see you took the shortcut," he said. 
     "It has its uses, sir," Jessica admitted. "The Sergeant's told me about you guys using it for a stakeout, and the fight that followed." 
     "She's told you that?" Byrne saw her nod. "I imagine one thing Laban didn't like was being arrested by a girl, though we never asked him that. Of course nobody likes being arrested."
     "Especially when they're guilty as sin," said Wagner.
     "There is that." He looked to Clemens. "You ready?" 
     "Yes, sir," Jessica said. "If you are."
     Byrne contacted the Bridge, and the com link to the Galactica was established. It took just a centon to get it up and going, and all three pulled up a chair Everyone else was already present, except for Commander Adama, either via com or in person. Then the Commander arrived. 
     "All right, now that everyone's present, let's get going." He turned to Tigh. "Colonel?" 
     "The mining operation is well underway. We should have our tanks filled to capacity, unless there's technical issue or we have further unwanted visitors, in four days," Tigh reported. 
     "Good news indeed," Siress Tinia said. 
     "Very good, in fact," Adama said. "Patrol reports?" 
     "Continuing to show the system clear, as well as surrounding space for a full parsec. No transmissions detected on known alien frequencies, though we're also scanning the full spectrum."
     "Excellent, Colonel," Adama said. "Major Croft?"
     "Commander, I've submitted my list of requirements for needed intelligence. A topographical map is important, as well as having a full interview with Petty Officer Clemens, but there's one thing I really need," the SF Major said. 
     "And that is?" Xaviar asked. 
     "Current imagery of the target. The Petty Officer's map is very useful, but it's showing the camp as of a yahren ago. There could have been changes, changes she wouldn't know about," Croft pointed out. "Commander, I need some up-to-date images of the camp to finalize the plan for the raid." 
      "We'll get that for you, Major. Either from the alien data banks, or through actual reconnaissance of the target area, you'll get whatever you need." Adama said. 
     "Thank you, sir." Croft said. "That's it, otherwise."
     "Captain Byrne," Adama said. "When can the Petty Officer be available?" 
      Byrne looked at Jessica. "One moment, Commander," he said. He whispered to her. "When do you think you'll be ready for that chat?" 
     "Tomorrow, sir. Anytime," Jessica said. "I want to help in any way I can." 
     "Commander, she'll be available anytime tomorrow," said Byrne.
     "Thanks, Captain," Croft said. "Once we get the imagery, then I'll need her over here at least once." 
      Jessica nodded. "Sir, just let me know when." 
     "Will do, Petty Officer," Croft said. "That's it for now, Commander."
     "Thank you, Major," Adama nodded. He pointed to Doctor Wilker. "Doctor?" 
      The scientist stood. "Commander, everyone, we've gotten more information on the target, as well as about the alien captain." He put up a topographical map. "Major, this should fill your needs in that regard. There's some rolling hills a few kilometrons north of the target, some swampy terrain to the northeast of the camp, where a river delta flows into the sea, and other than that, it's flat terrain for a good twenty kilometrons west and south of the target. Beyond that, it's heavily wooded, slowly rising towards a range of mountains, from which the river here flows. Beyond this, there's no indication in the recovered data of habitation anywhere else on the planet."
     "So this is still a growing colony, with only one continent settled," Apollo said. 
     "The aliens consider it as such, Captain," Wilker replied. 
     "Thanks, Doc," Croft replied. "One more piece of the puzzle, Commander."
     "Good work, Doctor," Adama said. 
     "Thank you, Commander," Wilker replied. "Now, there's also this: they have two orbital stations above the planet. One serves the stardocks as a kind of office and support facility, the other is supposed to be a command center for their orbital defenses-whenever they get them, that is. It's serving as what we'd call Fleet HQ for this area." 
     "Two more targets to take out," Allen said over the com. 
     "We'll add those to the strike plan," Adama decided. He saw Baltar indicate he had a question. "Yes, Baltar?" 
     "Doctor, does any of that data say precisely what's being built in those stardocks?" 
     "No, other than that they're being used for 'ongoing ship construction and repair work.' One can surmise that they've got an active shipbuilding program underway," Wilker indicated. 
     "Probably not just at this world, Commander," Pelias said."But eliminating these facilities....."
      "Should set their program back considerably," Moray said. "The other facilities will have to absorb the loss until the aliens can rebuild." 
     "Indeed, Command Centurion," Adama said. "Is that all for the planet, Doctor?" 
     "For today, yes, Commander," Wilker nodded. "Now, to the alien captain. Both Hummer and Komma have been working on the alien Captain's computer, with very good results." He punched up a holographic display. "We now have a name for the Camp Commandant: Tsernavia. Hummer correlated that name from the Captain's bribery files and a list of officers stationed at the colony world. His name came up on the officer's list." 
     "He's listed as the camp commandant?" Xaviar asked. 
     "He is, Sire," Wilker said. "That's not all. Whatever his price, it took two installments before the Captain got what he wanted. Big ones. And he notes that he's 'Reviewed the merchandise, and selected the product.' " 
      "The bastard," Allen hissed, while Lauren and Byrne looked at Jessica. She had her eyes closed, as she was remembering the time of "selection." 
     "Yes," Wilker said. "That's not all, though. Komma was working last night, and he found some video files. They were double-encrypted, and it took some effort, but he cracked them. I'm not going to show them here, but the alien indicates that he recorded some of the 'Disciplinary sessions with the slave,' and that he's pretty matter-of-fact about it." 
     "He recorded what he did to me?" Jessica said. She was very surprised. It quickly morphed into disgust and anger.
      "Yes, he did," Wilker said apologetically. "There's about a dozen or so of these, I'm afraid." 
      Byrne let out some Navy curses, while Wagner was turning red. Right now, if Lemeshik had been in the same room with her, he would have been a very dead man. And everyone else was showing signs of disgust. 
     "What is it with these people?" Tinia asked, an appalled expression on her face. "It seems like they're recording for posterity every wicked thing they do." 
     "Siress," Byrne said. "They're just like the Nazis back on Earth. They kept records of everything they did, and, just like with these people, they not only didn't think they would ever be stopped or caught, but felt they were doing nothing wrong. In fact they were proud of it." 
      "Not to mention their view that the Humans of Earth are a totally inferior people to them," Sarah said, speaking for the first time. "They totally believe they are not doing anything morally or legally wrong, and feel they have divine sanction to do so." 
      "Let's just hope they haven't brought their brand of truth and justice to any nearby civilizations," Wagner said. "Taking out those stardocks, along with any ships being built or repaired, does any such civilizations a favor." 
      "I agree," Tinia said, and she saw even Baltar nod, along with both Pelias and Xaviar. 
      Adama nodded. "An unintended consequence of the mission, and yet, a well-deserved one," he said. "Captain Byrne? Do you want Sire Solon to get involved at this point?" 
      "One moment, please, Commander," Byrne said. He turned to Jessica. "Feel like giving a deposition?" 
      "Sir, can it wait until I'm done talking with the Major?" she asked. "But....yeah. I could do that." 
      "Commander," Byrne said. "She wants to wait until she's finished with Major Croft, but yes, we can get that started." 
      "I'll let him know," Adama said. "And as you said, we can use the threat of prosecution to get him to talk." 
      "One thing he doesn't have, Commander," Wagner said. "He doesn't have his father around to protect him, and has no access to his income stream. Next time I have a talk with him, I'll remind him of that, and that we have those videos of his....activities with the Petty Officer...."
      "He may decide to drop his guard, and start talking," said Tigh. "It might work, if his pride is rankled sufficiently. Or then again, it might not." 
     Sarah nodded. "He may not even care, and feel that we have no right to prosecute him. I suspect he will even try to justify his actions. He seemed arrogant enough." 
      "When confronted with reality," Pelias ventured, "he may think differently." 
      Allen said, "When ideologues get confronted with reality, it's often a shock. He might just drop his guard." 
    "He was concerned about his computer, when we mentioned it to him," Byrne reminded the group. "Finding out that his encryption wasn't much of an obstacle to get what we want to know might also break him down."
     "Good thinking, Captain," Adama said. "We'll see how that works." He turned again to Wilker. "Anything else, Doctor?" 
       We're trying to break some encrypted files that apparently show images. What they are, we don't know, since these have yet another encyption scheme, and won't until we actually crack them," Wilker said. "We should have some of that available tomorrow." 
     "Very good, Doctor." 
     "Commander, may I say something?" Jessica asked. 
     "By all means, Petty Officer," Adama nodded. "Please, go right ahead."
      Thank you, Commander," she replied. Jessica took a deep breath, and said, "Sir, all the time I was there, I never saw anyone with a camera of any kind, other than people from what I would guess would be their propaganda department. There were signs posted on the road leading to the camp, that had a camera with a diagonal slash going through it, and sir, that would indicate that unauthorized photography was prohibited. At least, it would on Earth." 
     "They used you for propaganda?" Apollo asked. 
    " Yes, sir, they did," Jessica replied. "They shot a few movies there, and on other occasions, there were still photographers who came by. They had to have permission from somebody." 
     Wilker nodded. "Commander, there's a couple of videos in their audio/visual library that seem to be propaganda videos. We'll get Pliny's people to work on those. If any of them were shot at the camp..."
     "It'll help," Croft said. "But that wouldn't be enough. Though having ground level imagery would be a plus." 
     "Noted, Major," said Adama. "Doctor, have Pliny and his people get to work on those." 
     "Yes, Commander," Wilker said. 
     "Apollo," Adama turned to him and Orion. "You and Orion continue with the double patrols while we're in the system." 
     "Understood, Commander," Apollo replied. 
     "By your command," said Orion. 
     "We'll continue the current alert level of the Fleet in the meantime," Adama noted. Baltar and Tigh nodded. "Is there anything else?" Adama asked. He was relieved that Lydia, for the second time in a row, had nothing to say. "Very well, we're adjourned."


     The next morning, Commander Adama had his usual light breakfast, then went to the Bridge, where he found Colonel Tigh waiting for him. "Good morning, Tigh."
     "Good morning, Commander," Tigh nodded. "The morning report is ready."
     "Chief Mining Engineer Clement reports that tylium mining and processing is going well. Three more days and all of our tanks should be full." 
     "Unless there's a technical issue or more of our.....friends show up," Adama finished. He signed the report on the pad and handed it back to his daughter. "Thank you, Athena," He turned back to his Exec. "Patrol reports?" 
     "Nothing so far," Tigh replied. "The system where our visitor came from is within patrol range, though. Just."
      "Hmm...maintain the double patrols while we're in this system," Adama said, taking a pad from Omega. "When he returns, have Captain Apollo report to me. That other system certainly deserves a visit." 
      "Of course, Commander," Tigh nodded. "Though an ice ball and a sun-skimming gas giant might not have much for anyone, even our friends." 
      "It's still a place for someone to hide," Adama noted as he signed the pad and handed it back to Omega. "Or some valued resource. One reason they patrol it." 
     "If they're patrolling it, then these Ke'zar may be closer than we thought." Tigh ventured. 
     "Or they're that paranoid," Adama said. "The Ke'zar may not have shown themselves in this sector yet, but they're not taking any chances."
     "With what we know of this race, Commander?" Tigh asked. "In their situation, I wouldn't either." 
     "When we get to Earth, Tigh," Adama asked his Exec, "would we?" 
     "I imagine we would," Tigh said. "Doctor Wilker has managed to get a tech to open the safe found at the alien mine site." 
     "Contents?" Adama wanted to know.
     Disappointing," Tigh said. "A lot of alien currency, some bottles of liquor, and aside from a small hand weapon and a ledger of some sort, not much else." 
      "The other documents found there?" 
      "Still being analyzed," Tigh reported. "Along with additional material on the target planet and the alien Captain." 
      "Wilker should have that for the briefing?" Adama asked. 
      "Yes, Commander." 
       Adama nodded. "Very good, Colonel. That's all for now?" 
      "It is, Commander," replied the Exec. 
      "Thank you, Tigh." 

      Aboard Constellation, Jen and Lauren had decided again to let Jessica sleep in. They were doing that on their own, though when they had told Captain Byrne the previous night, he told them that they were doing what the military back home did with returned POWs, Because Jessica, for seven years, not counting the time she'd "been a "Popsicle" (to use a favorite phrase of Lauren's) had been told what to do, when to do it, and how to do it. Or else. And she was only five days out of that environment. There would be time enough to get her integrated into the crew, but then again, if all went well, there'd be thirty or so people just like her aboard ship, and they'd all be having the same issues. So Jen and Lauren simply stayed as quiet as possible while they went through their morning routine, then after Lauren left for the Security Office, Jen logged into the online education database. One thing she had found out quickly, despite the differences between the Colonials and Earth, was that "Math was still Math, and Physics still Physics." And so today she had some math, which on Earth would be at roughly Algebra 2 in High School. Jen went through the day's course, and as she was wrapping up, Jessica
woke up. "And good morning to you," Jen said.
     "Same to you," Jessica yawned as she got up. "What is it today?" 
     "Math. It sucks, but no way around it," Jen replied. One thing she and her father had in common was a dislike of math, though she had inherited her mother's excellent math skills. However, she also knew that good math grades meant a better shot at Annapolis, when they finally got home. "Go ahead, that food's yours," she nodded at the food on the table. 
     "Thanks," Jessica said as she tore into the pastries and juice. "Sure beats the camp, or that bastard Lemeshik's leftovers." 
      "I'll bet," Jen nodded. "At least here, I don't have to catch my breakfast anymore. Or dig it up." 
      "There is that," Jessica admitted. "You did it the old-fashioned way on that planet you were born on?"
      "Yup. Use bows or spears to take down these buffalo-like critters. Spear fish in the lake. Milk these animals kind of like a goat. And of course we grew vegetables. Lots of dirt, mud, blood, and God, the smell! This is much better, trust me."
      "I'll bet. I'm a get take-out or nuke-it-in-the-microwave kind of girl, myself."
      "I'm still adapting from a life of hand-to-mouth. A lot to be said for technology, isn't there?"
      "Sure is. Something the prisoners there are denied. It's all manual tools and bare hands." 
      "Right. Oh, one thing I didn't get from your first night, you said there were common-law couples?" 
     "Yeah," Jessica said. "There's four or five couples now. I really can't explain it. The aliens seem to like it, because they're getting to see us in another way, how love works, that sort of thing." 
      "Ugh," Jen replied. "It beats that lab Lauren's talked about. Nasty things go on there, she says." 
      "Yeah," Jessica said. "So she's said, and if she finds anyone involved with that....Anyway, of the couples, two of them have kids, and the women in the other two were pregnant, the last time I was there. Might be more, now." 
      "I don't know what I'd do," Jen said. "But I wouldn't want a kid under those conditions. Just breeding slaves. Like the ancient Romans, or folks like that."
      "Same here," Jessica said as she finished her juice. "No way would I want to bring a kid into the world, born into a brutal captivity, and if the aliens have their way, that's it for life." 
     Jen looked at her new roomie. "Well, we're thinking different. Like Pop said: we're getting those people out. And starting them on the way home." 
     Jessica smiled. "I like that." 

     Later,Bryne, Jessica with him,made a connection from his cabin to the Galactica. Major Croft was on the other end, and things got going. "Major," Byrne said. "Hope you don't mind my sitting in on this." 
     "Not at all, Captain," Croft replied. "And the Sergeant as well."
     Byrne turned to see Wagner coming in via the smuggling compartment. "Sir." 
     "Glad you could make it, Sergeant," Byrne said. "All right, Major, let's go." 

     That afternoon, all the principals gathered, either in the Galactica's Ward Room or via com links, for the sit-rep. After Commander Adama gave a brief overview, he nodded to Colonel Tigh. "Colonel?"
     "Our patrols continue to show the system clear, with no sign of any alien presence. In fact, we're clear out to a full parsec all around. No ships, no remote probes, no transmissions of any kind detected." 
     "Excellent, Colonel," Pelias said. "And our mining operation?" 
     "It's on schedule. Two more days, according to Chief Mining Engineer Clement, and our tanks will be full," Tigh said. 
      "Very good, Colonel," Adama said. "Major Croft?" 
     "Commander," the SF leader nodded. "Everyone. I've had a long talk this afternoon with Petty Officer Clemens, and in summary, here's what we've discussed." 
     In Byrne's cabin, Jessica held onto Lauren's hand.
     "Steady, girl," Lauren said. "I know it was hard." 
     "I know, " Jessica replied. "But at least I got it out of my system."
      "We're dealing with a compound, that, though it's large in the Petty Officer's map," Croft said, punching up a holographic image of the map, "the actual prison area is fairly small. After converting her units of measurement to ours, we came up with a compound about a hundred metrons long, and that same amount wide, with four long barracks buildings." He zoomed the holopic in on the area in question. "Three are occupied, one by the men, one by the women, and the third is reserved for the...couples, and their children," Croft said. 
     "They're letting the couples stay together?" Xaviar asked. "It doesn't make any sense. Slave societies generally break families up." 
     "Sir, uh...Sire," Jessica said. "It does to them. When those couples formed, the aliens realized they had something, so they were allowed to move into a barracks for themselves. They're watched more by the alien doctors and scientists when they're working, and the two mothers? Both of them are in these...relationships. And so are the two who were pregnant, the last time I was there." 
     "Not as vile as the lab on the prison planet," Tinia said. "But still disgusting, all the same." She was reminded briefly of the clones, offspring of Doctor Ravishol, back on Arcta, but said nothing, with Moray on the com line. The result of experiments abetted by the Cylons, they themselves had been sterile, or so the Cylons thought, and bred for slave labor. It seemed that the same mentality was at work here, only the aliens used nature, rather than a cloning lab. It disgusted her, either way
     "Siress," Byrne said. "The difference here is that the couples are an ongoing experiment, and from the alien point of view, they want more. That lab, on the other hand, is one of the most vile and sickening places we've heard about, and if the Ke'zar have blown that facility off the map, I'm not complaining." 
     Neither am I," Wagner added. 
    "Nor would I," Adama said. "Petty Officer?"
     "Sir?"
     "To your knowledge, were any experiments run, on the Human captives? Medical, genetic, anything?"
      "None that I know of, Commander. But that could have changed, for all I know."
      "Very well. Please continue, Major."    
     "Yes, sir. The fourth barracks building is divided into three parts. One part is used for storage. The second is used as a kind of meeting hall, where the aliens have tried to indoctrinate the prisoners, showing them propaganda videos, lectures, and so on. The last part? It's used as a small medical clinic," Croft said. 
     "And the remainder of the compound?" Xaviar asked. 
     "Sire, in addition to the barracks, there's an interrogation building here, with several isolation cells in a separate compound, and the Petty Officer indicated that anyone breaking the camp rules, or rousing the ire of the Commandant, gets sent there," Croft pointed to the area on the map. From what Clemens knew, the cells were...austere. "Then, there's a compound where the entrance road leads, with residences and offices for the Commandant, guards, and other officers." 
     "How many guards?" Apollo asked. 
     "About a hundred or so,' Clemens said. "All armed with some kind of rifle and a pistol, and they all carry some kind of baton-either rubber or wooden, to use in giving out beatings," 
      "Adjacent to the main compound," Croft went on, "Is the work area. The agro or farm area, with row crops, orchards, and so on, livery area, carpenter's shop, metal shop and foundry, and other work areas." 
      "Camp kitchen?" Pelias asked. 
      "Here, Sire," Croft pointed to a building near one of the barracks. "And next to that is what was  the camp infirmary, and now it's a nursery." 
     "Nursery?" Apollo asked. 
     "Sir," Jessica said. "The aliens have allowed one of the prisoners, who's a military nurse on Earth, to set up a nursery for the babies, while their mothers are working." 
     "Sorry, Petty Officer," Apollo replied. "I do recall that." 
     "And the outer perimeter?" Adama wanted to know. 
      "Commander, they've got a clear view from six watch towers, spread so that there's a view of the entire facility from at least three. And a clear field of fire for at least a hundred metrons from the fence to the fields beyond. No mines, the Petty Officer's sure of that," Croft said. 
      "Has anyone ever escaped?" Baltar asked from the BaseShip. 
      "No," Jessica replied. "And I can explain why."
      "Please do, Petty Officer," Adama said. He was naturally curious. 
 "Yes, sir. First, there's no way off the planet. No one knows how to fly a ship, and even if we did, where would we go? And the spaceport is heavily guarded, too. Second, it's not just the town, but several nearby villages north of the town, near the military camp, and the other prison camp, as well. They do mostly farming, but I think some of those who work at those places live there. We're in the middle of a hostile population, and they're not going to help any of us. And last, we don't know much about the rest of the planet, so even if we got away from any search, not knowing the land, and well, Commander, you get the idea," Jessica said. 
     "Understandable," Tigh nodded. "The odds of success are very low, and the punishment likely to be meted out when recaptured is severe, correct?" Everyone saw Jessica nod at that. 
      "Major?" Adama pointed to Croft. "Do you have the outline, at least, of a plan?" 
      "We're beginning to come up with several possibilities for a raid, Commander. The Petty Officer indicated that the guards on the overnight shift are likely to be very inattentive, maybe even asleep, and we can exploit that. Any raid has to take place at night. The prisoners are all in their barracks, and the guards are either in their own quarters, asleep, or on duty and not very attentive," Croft replied. "They can be made to pay for that." 
      "And pay dearly," Xaviar noted. "All these yahrens, and they've gotten sloppy. Not to mention they're not expecting an attack." 
      "Something that can be exploited," Moray added. "Their security has grown complacent, and they may also believe that no one would dare attack them." 
      "They're going to get a rude awakening in the next few days," Byrne said. "Something they'll never forget. Those of them who survive, that is." 
      "Indeed, Captain," Adama said. "Major, can you start preliminary planning for a raid?" 
      "Yes, Sir!" Croft replied. "I'll start talking this over with the boys, and even without the current imagery-" 
      "We'll work on getting that to you, Major," Adama noted. 
      "Thank you, Sir," Croft said. "As I was saying, even without the current imagery, we have enough to start thinking about scenarios for the raid itself." 
     "Good, Major," Adama said. "Do so, and I want options as soon as possible." 
      "We'll get some for you, Commander," Croft nodded. "Sir, that's it for now."
      "Thank you, Major," Adama nodded. He gestured to Doctor Wilker. "Doctor?"
      "Commander, Everyone," Wilker rose. "First of all, we have a name for our target planet. It's called Ne'chak, and that is derived from the name for the star itself. Chak. Second, the alien Captain's images. They're his personal photographs, and unfortunately for us, none of them show the camp." 
      "That confirms the prohibition on photography," Byrne said. 
     "It does, Captain," Wilker said. "None of the images were taken on the world in question, I'm afraid."
      Adama looked at his chief scientist. "So where were they taken, Doctor?" 
     "Either on the Capital world, or on their actual home planet," Wilker replied. "They're family pictures, graduation from their Academy, things like that." 
     "So why keep those under encryption?" Pelias asked. 
    "That, we don't know yet," Wilker admitted. "It could be there's someone in these photographs that the alien Captain doesn't want his own people to know about." 
     "Something's got him wanting those photos under wraps," Wagner said. "Just knowing we had them got him seriously riled up. The lawman in me wants to know what that is." 
     "Like his financial manager, Sergeant?" Byrne asked. 
     "Perhaps," Xaviar nodded. "If he's involved in some kind of smuggling or black market activity-"
     "Which would explain his income stream," Adama said. "I can't imagine that their Captains get paid that much. It's the equivalent of millions of cubits, in their currency."
    "Indeed, Commander," Xaviar said. "He would want the identities of his illicit contacts kept secret. Even if they're in photographs." 
     "Agreed, Sire," Adama said. "Think about it. We're dealing with a military-religious dictatorship. One that is comparable, based on what we know, to the Eastern Alliance's." 
      "Dictatorships don't like ordinary civilians getting their hands on lots of things," Byrne pointed out. "If he was smuggling, it could be anything. Drugs, illegal or otherwise, 'subversive literature', banned movies or music."
     "Maybe even working against his own government," offered Allen."Anything's possible." 
     "That might explain the religious figures on the bribe list," Tigh said. "He wasn't just bribing people to get ahead, he was bribing people's silence." 
      "A question," said Moray. They all turned to the Command Centurion. "Why bribe these figures? Killing them would be more efficient, surely."
      There was a moment of awkward silence.
      "Yes, but if too many people connected to him or his family start dying, it could be connected to him," said Allen. "He doesn't want attention from authority. Besides, if bribes worked once, then he might be able to use the same people again. People that he knows he can use, and he knows their price."
     "Understood," said Moray, after a few microns.
     "Quite," Pelias nodded. "Commander, may I suggest that the ship be scanned thoroughly?" 
      "By all means, Sire," Adama agreed. "If he was smuggling, we'll find it." He turned again to Wilker. "What else do you have for us?" 
      "The contents of the ship's library. Some of the videos are, indeed, propaganda videos. Two of them were shot at the camp, and depict the camp's inhabitants," Wilker replied. 
      "Get those to Major Croft, once they're translated," Adama ordered. 
      "Yes, sir," Wilker said. "Others are about the war with the Ke'zar, the desire to reclaim the home world, 'Never Forget the Treachery of the Ke'zar', that sort of thing. One's" about Earth: it's basically reminding their people that it used to be theirs, and that one day, it would be once again." 
      Jessica froze at that. "Sir, I never thought I'd hear about that video again." 
     "They showed it to you?" Adama asked. 
     "Yes, sir. They gathered all of us in the empty barracks-they do that when they want all of us together for any reason, and they showed us this video." 
      "What did it say?" Tinia asked. 
      "Well...Siress," Jessica said. "They claim Earth because their boots walked on its surface, a long time ago. Several thousand of our years, I'm not sure exactly how many. And no matter what's happened there since, or how long it's been since they were there, they have a right to return. And then, to shape things there the way they want, for our own good. That's what they say, anyway." She looked at her CO, then at the screen. "I don't know if this is true or not, but they said that once, the people of Earth revered them as gods, and they remember that. And they want Earth to be part of their Empire again, as it was back then." 
    "They're claiming Earth as theirs by right?" Pelias asked. 
     "Yes, sir, uh, Sire?" Jessica said. "That's what they said." 
     "The documents on the derelict," Lauren reminded everyone. "They were there before, a long time
ago." 
     "So how long have they been planning to come back?" Allen wondered. 
     "Good question, Commander Allen," Adama said. "Perhaps it's time we had another talk with the alien captain."
     "Commander," Lauren asked. "Let me have another crack at him first. If I can get him to talk, now that we may know what he's up to, then if you want to chat, it'll be a whole lot easier." 
      "Very well, Sergeant," Adama nodded. "We'll do that in the morning." 
      "Yes, sir. I'll be waiting." 
      "Fleet status?" Tigh asked. 
      "Maintain the current readiness level for now, and the double patrols in the system," replied Adama, and both Tigh and Baltar nodded. 
     "And the nearby system?" 
      "Thank you for the reminder, Colonel," Adama said. "Apollo, you and Orion plan a patrol to that system. The same system where the ship we destroyed came from. It's just within patrol range. Get in, find out if there's anyone there, and get out." 
    "Yes, Commander," Apollo replied.
     "By your command," Orion said. 
     "All right," Adama said. "Is there anything else for now?" He looked at Doctor Wilker. "Doctor?" 
     "The material from the mine site. The safe, to be specific. It seems the mine director was keeping two sets of books in his ledger. One set was for his own use, with his own numbers. The other was for his superiors." 
     "What was that all about?" Commander Allen wondered. 
      "Simple: he wasn't reporting deaths of laborers. He was being paid for each laborer, and if any died..."
      "He wasn't getting the money for their rations, or whatever," Byrne finished. "It's happened on Earth, either in Nazi Germany or Stalinist Russia; camp commanders getting greedy." 
      "Not a surprise,"Sarah noted. "The laborers are a source of income for the mine director. Not unknown in the Ziklagi Empire, or similar races. The more laborers he has working, the more money he receives." 
     "This government, for a dictatorship, seems pretty corrupt," Baltar commented. 
      "Dictatorships usually are," Byrne said. "At least on Earth. Sycophants have their own hands in the till, and there are those who will exploit the circumstances to line their own pockets."
      "Indeed," Adama said. "Anything else?"
      "Just one other thing, Sir. There was a document in the safe. A memo to the mine director from his chief mining engineer. Reminding him of the lack of proper safety precautions and inadequate equipment in the mine. The mine director had a copy of a reply, telling the engineer to 'Be quiet and keep such thoughts to yourself.' " 
     "Famous last words, Commander," Byrne said. 
     "Exactly," Adama said. "Now, is there anything else?" Heads shook no. "All right, that's it for now. We're adjourned." 


     The next morning, after a working breakfast, where he discussed some minor council business with Siress Tinia, Adama went to the Bridge and logged in. He found his Exec waiting for him. "Good morning, Colonel." 
     "Good morning, Commander," Tigh nodded. "I have the morning situation report." 
     "Let's have it," Adama said, taking a pad and stylus from Omega. "Go ahead."
     "First, the miners say two more days, and our tanks will be full," Tigh reported. "We're doing well on the other minerals as well."
     Adama nodded, then signed the pad and handed it back to Omega. "Thank you, Omega." He turned to his Exec. "Very good, Tigh. Pass that to the miners. And what else?" 
     "Doctor Wilker's still progressing on the alien documents. He contacted Chief Twilly and asked that the ship be scanned from top to bottom. No hidden compartments found. Her cargo bay only had a landram-type vehicle and a prefabricated ground installation, similar to what a landing party might need. If he was smuggling...."
     "Then he wasn't on this trip, or he hasn't met up with his suppliers," Adama finished. "He may be smuggling something else: information. He-and perhaps his father-may have information on others that those people may not want revealed. Or they're revealing it to people considered their enemies. People who could make best use of the information for their own purposes. For financial considerations, naturally." 
      "I hadn't thought of tha, Commander, this alien captain as an information dealer. It all sounds like some cheap crime novel come to life," Tigh said.
     "That it does," Adama agreed, as he took a pad from Athena. "What's next?" 
     "Sergeant Wagner will be here after 1000, Commander. She's ready for another go at the alien captain."
     Good," Adama nodded. "Maybe he'll drop his brave face and start talking." He signed the pad with a stylus and handed it back to his daughter. "Thank you, Athena." He turned to the Exec. "Anything else?"
     "Captain Apollo and Strike Leader Orion have been working on a patrol to the system where our...visitor originated. They should have something for you later today," Tigh reported. 
     "Very well, Tigh. That's it for now?" 
     "It is, Commander," Tigh said.
     Just then, Apollo came onto the Bridge. "Commander?" 
    "Yes, Apollo?" Adama asked. 
    "Commander, I've been talking things over with Orion. There's no way we can get a patrol there and back."
      "What do you mean?" Adama wondered. "It's within patrol range-just."
     "Commander, what if we go into combat? If we meet hostiles there, we won't have enough to get back, even with extra fuel. The standard drop tanks, for both Raider and Viper, would still leave us on the edge. If we had to go in combat, it leaves us in the gray zone for returning." Apollo said. He handed Adama a pad, with his figures. The Cylon equivalent was appended below. "It's that simple."
     Adama looked at the calculations, then he went to the plot board, then nodded. "All right, Apollo. Pass my thanks to Orion. Tell him the mission is off." 
     "Yes, Commander," Apollo said. "Is there anything else?" Adama shook his head. Apollo saluted, and left the Bridge. 
     "Now what, Commander? Tigh asked. 
     "We'll have to send a ship. We need some eyes out there, and a ship will have to do it. Preferably one with cloaking capability, since we don't wish to advertise our presence. And there's only two, aside from ourselves, in the Fleet: Adelaide and Constellation. And we need Constellation here."
     Tigh knew what his CO was thinking. "A quick scouting mission?" 
    "In and out fast," Adama decided. "Get in, scout the system, and get back here as soon as possible." Adama turned to Omega. "Get me Commander Allen on the Adelaide, please." 
     "Right away, Commander." 
     A centon later, Allen's face appeared on a monitor. "Commander?" 
     "Commander Allen," Adama nodded. "I have a job for you and the Adelaide. We're sending you the coordinates of the system where our late visitor came from. It's outside effective patrol range, and I'd like to have some eyes on that system. The mission is yours. Get in, scout the system, and get out fast. No combat, however."
     Allen nodded, then looked offscreen for a moment. "We now have the coordinates, Commander. The Adelaide can get underway immediately." 
     "Very good," Adama said. "Get going, Commander, and we'll be waiting for your information."
     "We'll be back as soon as possible, Commander," Allen said. 
      "Good luck, Commander," Adama said. 
      "Thank you, sir. Adelaide out," Allen nodded, then the screen went blank. 
      
     The Adelaide broke from her position in the Fleet, lined up on her new course, and went into light-speed. In a flash, she was gone.

     While the Adelaide went off on her mission, the shuttle Armstrong was coming in to land in the Galactica's Alpha Bay. After she landed, Sergeant Wagner and the shuttle's pilot, Ensign Adele, disembarked and headed to Life Center. "First time seeing one of these creeps in the flesh?" Wagner asked.
     "Yeah, and from what you've said, these people....anyone involved in forcibly taking Humans from their home planets has forfeited their right to live, as far as I'm concerned." Adele replied. 
     Good to know," Wagner said. "Anyway, you can help me out on this." She explained the "Good cop, Bad Cop" interrogation tactic. "Feel like you're up to it?" 
     "I saw that on an old vid, once. Sure. I'll give it a try," Adele said. They made their way to Life Center, where Doctor Salik was on duty. 
     "Hey, Doc," Wagner said. 
     "Sergeant," Salik said. "And Ensign. Commander Adama told me you'd be coming."
      "First time I've come here and found you guys not busy at all," Adele said. 
      "Just wait. When we get those prisoners freed, this place will be pretty busy," Salik nodded. 
      "You'll take good care of 'em, Doc." Wagner said. 
     "That's my job, Sergeant," Salik replied. 
      Nodding, Wagner and Adele went to the Security Ward, where they found Corporal Kunis on duty. "Corporal," Wagner nodded as she signed in. 
    "They told me to expect you, Sergeant," Kunis nodded. 
     "Has he said anything?" Wagner asked as she handed over her sidearm, and Adele did the same. 
     "No, Ma'am," Kunis said. "He's been polite to the medtechs, but that's it." 
     Nodding, Wagner and Adele went to the cell. "Open up," 
     The cell door opened, and Lemeshik sat up. "So...the Te'rean bitch returns. With one of these....Colonials as well." His sneer made Wagner want to kill him right then and there. 
      "Enough with the brave front.....Commander," Wagner hissed. "Right now, if I were you, I'd be really worried." 
     "And why is that?" Lemeshik sneered. 
      "This." She took out one of the folders from the bag and opened it. She handed it to him. "It's a series of stills from one of your....videos. It shows you physically and sexually assaulting Petty Officer Clemens. It's more than enough to get you prosecuted and convicted in the Colonials' own courts." 
      "What nonsense are you talking about?" 
 "Simple," Wagner grinned. "They have laws against slavery. Strict ones; very strict ones, I might add. Not to mention that they also have a statute that enables prosecution of crimes committed against any Human, anywhere, at the hands of an alien. You qualify." 
      "You jest...."
 "I don't," Wagner said, getting into his face. "There's enough evidence there to get you convicted on multiple counts of rape and torture, plus one count of kidnapping-"
 "I had nothing to do with her capture," Lemeshik protested. "I have never been to Te'rea." 
     Accessory after the fact," Wagner nodded. "And there's always this charge: Slavery. Enough to get you thrown into the prison barge for the rest of your life, or, if the court decides on an alternative sentence...."
      "And that is?" 
      "Marooning," Lauren said dryly. "Think about it: you, all alone on some planet with some really nasty flora and fauna, trying to scratch out a meager existence. If I were you, I'd drop the brave face and start telling me what I want to know." 
      Lemeshik glared at her. He said nothing at first. Then... "You have no right..."
     "Possession is nine-tenths the law, as we say on Earth," Wagner said. "They have you, they have the videos, and they also have the victim. The only thing keeping them from filing charges in their court is me." 
     "What.." Lemeshik stammered. 
     "Yeah, me. If you start talking, then maybe I don't go to their legal office." 
      Lemeshik thought for a moment. He knew that these Te'reans had likely penetrated not just his own computer, but the ship's mainframe as well. He could reasonably expect that everything on the system was therefore compromised. His superiors, as well as his father, would understand when the inevitable Proceedings were convened. "If anyone asks, I can say that your specialists penetrated the ship's computer. You did so without any writ or warrant-" 
     "That's your problem, buster. Not mine. Besides, you don't need a warrant to examine a war prize," Wagner said. "Care to start?" 
      "Very well." The defiance seemed to have gone out of him. "What do you want to discuss?" 
     Here we go, Lauren thought. "Where is the slave camp?" 
     He looked at Adele, then at her. "It is in the Chak system. The planet Ne'chak, to be precise." 
     "How often have you been there?" 
     "Three times. First, to make my initial request. Second, to....inspect the merchandise and make my selection, and finally, an official visit on behalf of the Fleet Command." 
     Lauren looked at Adele. She had listened to Clemens' story, of how she and the other women had been stripped, then humiliated, as the Commandant showed off who was available, and how Lemeshik had made his choice. "I see. And that would mean your father." 
     "You know about him?" Lemeshik asked. 
      "The Petty Officer told us," Wagner said. "And how he's protected you all this time. You've been a bad boy. Bribery, blackmail, extortion-" 
      "All perfectly justified," Lemeshik said proudly. "My family has served the state for generations. We have done much on behalf of the state, and have struggled hard to get where we are. And we do not wish to return to the.....lower classes." 
      "So, you've climbed pretty far, and you want to stay where you are?" Adele asked, speaking for the first time. 
      "Yes. What fool would wish otherwise?" 
      "So that means bribery, blackmail, and extortion? Any means fair or foul?" Lauren asked. 
      "If that is what it takes," Lemeshik nodded. "And we are not the only family who resorts to such means to advance their family's good fortunes." 
    "Including murder?" 
      Lemeshik smugly said, "If someone meets with an.....unfortunate accident, well...one would have to be a fool not to take advantage of that." 
      "So, you've admitted to blackmail, bribery, extortion, and hinted at murder," Lauren nodded. She then took another folder. "Back to the camp." She removed a photo and handed it to him. "Is this the Commandant?"
    "Where did you get this?" 
     "It's from my interrogation. Or as I prefer to say it, torture session. As I said, the Colonials found me on a derelict ship, still in a stasis tube after forty years. They found the ship's records, and this was among what they found," Lauren said with a deadly serious look on her face. "Is this him, and what's his background?" 
     "I do not..." he began
    "You know," Adele said to Wagner. "Why not turn him over to his own people? You know, all the evidence showing what kind of scum he is?" 
     "Aw.." Lauren said. "You know, they might get really mad at him. And his father. They might even decide to execute the both of them. Besides, even scum has standards." 
     "Yeah, you're right on that. Still....."
     "Wait!" Lemeshik said. "All right. All right!" 
     "I'm listening," Wagner said. Lemeshik seemed to hesitate. "I'm still listening."
     "Tsernava is the Commandant, yes," Lemeshik said, much less smugly. "He has served the state ably and well for many, many years. He has practiced his trade on Enemies of the State and Order, as well as.....Te'reans." 
 "And why did it take you two installments to get what you wanted?" 
     "The regulations had to be....interpreted, and the sum demanded for such an....interpretation was such that two payments were necessary," Lemeshik said, matter of fact. 
     Lauren nodded, then she glared at him. "One way or another, this man will get what's coming to him, and the people in that camp are coming with us. We're taking them home." 
     Lemeshik stood up in anger for the first time. "You have no right..."
     "Sit down, buster!" Wagner yelled. "YOU had no right to take me, Clemens, or any of the others from Earth. Whether it's the people in that camp or on that prison planet-and yes, we know about it-or the ones you took and released, whether you tortured them or not, it makes no difference! You had no fraking right to do any of that!" Lauren took a deep breath, and settled down. "Now, I have one more question: How did the war with the Ke'zar start?" 
     "Those treacherous.....attacking without warning or provocation-" 
      "Look who's talking. Someone whose government was very deep in plans to do the same thing to Earth. Striking without warning or cause, a planet that had never done anything to you! A people that had no knowledge you even existed! So don't give me any of that sanctimonious 'without warning or provocation' crap! " Lauren said. "You sound like a hypocrite. So...I'll ask again. How'd the war start?" 
      Lemeshik sat down and stared at her. "They attacked while we were preparing our expedition to your planet. They accused us of planning to attack them." 
      "Shocking," Adele muttered. "The things some people do." 
      "Can you blame them? I'd do the same thing, in their place," Lauren said. "So you picked a fight with your neighbors. And lost." 
     "So did your Colonials," Lemeshik sneered, his arrogance returning. 
     "Yeah, but they lost because they fell for a false peace offer," Lauren said. She gathered her materials and stood up. "You lost a fair fight." 
     "One day, we shall return to your world," 
     "Dream on, buster. But everyone needs a hobby," Lauren said. 
     "The gods have foreseen it." 
     "And by the time that comes," Lauren smiled, "there's going to be a difference." 
     "What?" 
     "Think about it: there's going to be a hundred ships like the Galactica defending Earth. And by the way, in case you haven't heard, your relief ship arrived." 
     "And?" 
     "And he decided to pick a fight with the Galactica. Big mistake.... All that's left of him is tiny pieces. I'd think about that if I were you." She turned to the cell door. "Kunis! We're through here." 
      "One day, we will return to your world," Lemeshik said. " As I said before, the gods have foreseen it." 
      "So what? They haven't foreseen the Galactica, the BaseShip, and the others. By the time that happens, if it ever even does, we'll be waiting for you. And even if you had come to Earth when you planned? You would've done one good thing."
    "And that is?" 
      Kunis came and opened the cell door. "Simple: your invasion would've forced us to unite against a common enemy. We would've set aside our own political and religious differences, and united to fight you. Whether using nuclear weapons or fighting a guerrilla war, we would have done whatever it took. No matter how long it took." Lauren and Adele stepped out. "And you would have found out one other thing." 
     "What?" Lemeshik asked, his arrogance fully returned. 
     "Taking Earth would have been one thing. Keeping it? Something else entirely. And ultimately, the price you would have paid would have been too high, and you would've gone home. We would rebuild, and when the Colonials arrived, they would help us, just as we would help them," Lauren smiled. "Keep that in mind. And tell your superiors that..." Then she and Adele left the ward, and signed out. 
     "Glad that's over?" Lauren asked Adele as they reclaimed their sidearms. 
      "Are they all like that?" She asked, jerking her thumb back at the Security Ward. 
Lauren shook her head. "The First Officer's come across to Commander Adama and Captain Byrne as pretty reasonable. No idea if they've talked to any of the other officers." She turned to Kunis. "Is the Commander still on the Bridge?" 
      "Let me check," Kunis nodded. He picked up a telecom and called the Bridge. "He's there, Athena says." 
     "Could you tell her we're on our way? We just had a talk with the alien Captain. The Commander might find this interesting." 
     "Will do." 
      Lauren and Adele headed for the Bridge, and when they got there, they found Commander Adama at the Plot Board with Colonel Tigh.
     "Commander?" Wagner asked, and both saluted. 
     "Sergeant," Adama nodded. "And Ensign. How did it go with Lemeshik?" 
      "Mixed, Commander," Wagner replied. "He confirmed the location of the slave camp. And he admitted being there three times." 
     "Interesting. What was he there for?" Adama asked. 
      "Sir, he was there twice, first to give the Commandant, 'Scarface', his first installment on the bribe. The second was for payment number two, then to 'inspect' what he had to offer, make his selection and take delivery, and the last one was an official visit, on behalf of their Fleet Command," Wagner reported. 
     "Hmm..." Adama nodded. "What else?" 
      "Sir, he admitted to bribery, blackmail, and extortion, and hinted strongly about murder," Wagner said. "He's pretty unapologetic about that." 
     "Ensign, your thoughts?" 
      "Commander," Adele said. "It's like a crime family, like they had back in the Colonies, but this one's in a military service. And he said they're not the only one doing it. I admit, I believe him." 
       Adama shook his head in disbelief. "His ship's been scanned from top to bottom by Doctor Wilker and Chief Twilly. Nothing unusual. Did he admit to any kind of smuggling?" 
     "No, Sir," Wagner replied. "If he's smuggling anything, it's likely information. The kind one can use for blackmail and extortion purposes." 
      "A not-unreasonable possibility," Colonel Tigh said, jumping in. 
     "It is that, Sir," Wagner nodded. "Commander, we also found out how the war with the Ke'zar got started." 
     "Did you?" Adama asked, and saw both of them nod. "What did he say?" 
     "Sir, he said the Ke'zar struck while they were preparing their invasion force for Earth. And they were accused by the Ke'zar of preparing to attack them," Wagner replied. "And he was pretty upset about that. I had to cut him down to size when he wailed about being attacked without warning or provocation, when they were fully intent on doing the same thing to Earth." 
     "I see..." Adama nodded. "Anything else?" 
      "When we left? He's back to his arrogant self, Commander." 
      "That was probably to be expected, Sergeant." Adama said. "Well done, both of you." 
      "Thank you, Sir," the two of them replied. 
     "That'll be all. Dismissed." 
      Both saluted and left the Bridge. "Now what?" Adele asked. 
     "We need to get to the Rising Star. Jessica's wardrobe order is ready," Lauren said. 
      "Why not bring her along?" 
      "Simple," replied Lauren. "We don't need those IFB vermin finding out about her. Not just yet, anyway. She's only seven days removed from a living hell, and having those creeps sticking a microphone in her face or a camera crew follow her around is the last thing she needs right now." 
     "Gotcha," Adele nodded. "We can bring her back some Java from Rogellio's." 
      Lauren looked at her. "You know, I think she'd like that." 


     Several light-yahrens away, the Adelaide came out of light-speed. On her bridge, the officer of the watch went to the Captain's console. "Captain to the Bridge." 
     In his cabin and office, Commander Allen nodded, then turned to his wife, Kalyesha. "Be back in a while, Love." 
     "We're looking for more of those....people? What they have done...." 
     "We are," Allen kissed her, then headed for the Bridge. He was there quickly, and nodded to the
OOW. "Status?" 
     "Approaching the target system's heliopause," the OOW replied. "Cloaking system ready and at your command."
      Allen nodded, then went to his console. "Helm, full sublight. Take us in. Navigator, course to the ice ball that's the outermost planet here." 
      "Yes, sir," the Navigator replied. After a centon, she came back. "Course plotted and on the board, sir." 
      "Execute." 
      The Adelaide pressed forward into the system, and thirty-four centons later, the icy world came into view. "Sensors: anything?" Allen asked. 
      "No, Sir," the sensor officer said. "This world's small, but it's got a lot of nothing. The ice isn't even water ice. All frozen nitrogen. Ammonia. Hydrogen. Traces of a few others. No life." 
      "Helm," Allen nodded to the Helmsman. "Take us around the planet. Make sure no one's hiding in the shadow." 
      Adelaide made one orbit, and found nothing. "Nothing, Sir," the sensor officer said. "All scans clear."
     The Exec nodded. "This mission might be a whole lot of nothing." 
     "Complaining about that, Mister?" Allen asked sarcastically. 
     "No, Sir! After the Otaglim, well....but a mission where there's a free ride is something I'd rather have." 
      "You and me both," Allen said. "All right, then. Helm, take us in to the inner world. Get us as close as you can without us getting fried by the star's radion, or the planet's, radion belts, for that matter." 
      "Sir." 
      Adelaide then closed in with the sun-skimming gas giant, and its multiple moons. Due to the star's radion and the gas giant's own radion belts, the ship couldn't close in and scan every moon, but what they found was enough: several of the moons were simply balls of rock pockmarked with craters, while one was similar to Io, orbiting Jupiter in Earth's solar system, spewing out volcanic plumes of sulfur. And another reminded Allen of a world in one of the Star Wars movies, where volcanoes were spewing out lava all over the place, and there were literally fields of molten lava. "Well, Sensors?" 
     "No life forms known to us could exist here, Captain," the Sensor officer replied. She went on. "Heat, radion, and toxic gases are too high. No sign of any ships, either." 
      "The gas giant?" Allen asked. As far as he knew, he was the first Human from Earth to lay eyes on what the astronomers back home called a "Hot Jupiter." 
      "Typical gas giant: mixed hydrogen and helium, with some traces of other gases, Sir. Temperatures well off the charts, and overall, not a very nice place." 
      Allen nodded. "Thank you." He turned to the Exec. "Well, you were right on this one. A whole lot of nothing." 
     "I'm glad for that, Captain," the Exec replied. "Nothing. Not even a remote probe or a marker buoy?" 
     "Nothing, Sir," the sensor officer replied. "Nothing artificial of any kind at all." 
      Allen grinned. "That makes the after-mission report a short one, XO." 
     "That it does, Sir," replied the Exec, with a smile. 
     "Right, then. Helm: full sublight to the heliopause, then max light-speed back to the Fleet. We're getting out of here."
      The helmsman smiled. "Yes, Sir!" 


      After the Armstrong touched down on the Rising Star, Wagner and Adele got out and headed for the shopping deck. On their way there, they ran into Chief Steward Zeibert. "Chief," Lauren said. 
     "Ladies," Ziebert nodded. "And what brings you back to the Rising Star so soon?" 
     "A couple of errands on behalf of Captain Byrne. He's busy, so he sent us instead," she replied. 
     "Ah. Still, enjoy yourselves in the meantime." 
     "Thanks, Chief," Adele replied. Then the two went up to the shopping deck. "I'll go to Rogillo's." 
     "Okay," Lauren said. She thought for a centon. "We need to maintain cover. Get some plain black for Captain Byrne, one with cream for Jessica, one for me, whatever you want, and get something for Jen." 
     "Got you," Adele nodded. She went off to the java stand, while Lauren went to Jasen's shop.
     "Sergeant!" Jasen said as Lauren came in, all smiles. "I see you got my message." 
     "That we did," Lauren said. "Sorry Petty Officer Clemens couldn't come." 
     "I understand," Jasen replied. "Just so you know: IFB's been on the ship." 
     "What?" Lauren asked, a scowl coming to her face. "What do those scum want?" 
     "No idea, but I did see a camera crew and a journalator shooting some scenes on the kiosk deck." 
     "Now you know why we're keeping her away from those slime-lovers. Because that's the last thing she needs right now," said Lauren. 
      "One day, you must tell me about the broadcast media on Earth," 
     "That's a deal. Everything's set?" 
     Jasen nodded. He went behind his counter and picked up two large packages. "Everything's here. As requested. Even the civilian clothes, and her exercise attire. I hope the color is to her liking, given the shortage of material. "
     "She'll like it," Lauren nodded, taking the packages. "Thanks, Jasen. Oh, how did Major Croft like his order?" 
     Jasen smiled. "He was very pleased, I'm glad to say." 
     "That's good," Lauren said. "Thanks again, Jasen. We'll let you know if we need anything else." 
      "My pleasure, Sergeant. Always glad to have repeat customers."
     Nodding, Lauren left the shop, and found Adele waiting near the lift. "I see you got what you came for," Adele said. 
     "And so did you," Lauren said. She nodded at the two carriers with the drinks inside. 
      "That I did," the Ensign smiled with pride. "We need to get out of here. There's an IFB crew on the ship, Mariwen told me." 
     "Jasen told me the same thing," Lauren nodded. "Let's go. Now." 
      The two headed back to the docking bay and loaded their precious cargo into the Armstrong. After Adele fired up the engines, and she received clearance, she flew the shuttle out of the bay and headed right for the Constellation. After landing, the two noticed Captain Byrne, Jen, and Jessica waiting. 
     After the hatch opened, the two came out. "Permission to come aboard?" Adele asked, as the two saluted. 
     "Granted," Byrne said. "Mission accomplished, I see." 
     Yes, Sir," Lauren said. "And to maintain cover, we brought something else: presents from Rogilio's." 
     "What's that?" Jessica asked.
     "It's a for-real coffee shop," Byrne said. "Somebody grows for-real coffee beans, on one of their Agro ships, and does a brisk business." 
     Jessica shook her head. "Well, I'll be." 
    "Believe it," Byrne said. He was gazing at the liquid booty.
    "Let's see...black and strong, for the Captain," Adele said, handing Byrne a cup. "Latte with cream, for Jen," 
     "Thanks," Jen said, taking the cup. "You're a saint." 
      "Regular with cream, for our Master-at-Arms," she said, handing Lauren hers. "And the same for our new crew member," Adele nodded, handing a cup to Jessica. 
     "Thanks," Jessica said. She took a sip. "God....it's been a long time since I've had anything like this." 
     "You're welcome," Adele said. "And Lauren's got her part of the surprise." 
      "What?" 
     "Here," Lauren said, opening one of the packages. "Your new uniforms and civilian clothes." 
     Jessica smiled. "Woo! You got..."
    "Let's go," Byrne said. 
      They went back to the cabin that Jen, Lauren, and Jessica shared, and Jessica took one package, and went into the head. After a few centons, she came out, wearing her new Navy coveralls. "It's just so, so....I'm just glad to be wearing the uniform again. Not that I didn't like that Colonial uniform, but I just didn't feel right, not wearing a proper Navy uniform." 
     "Believe me, I felt the same way," Byrne said. 
     "And me," Lauren added. "I'm glad Commander Adama is so accommodating about it."


     On the Galactica's Bridge, Commander Adama and Colonel Tigh were discussing routine ship's business, when Athena called. "Commander, ship on scanners." 
      Both officers went to her station. "Can you identify?" Adama asked his daughter. 
     "Stand by....," Athena said. "It's the Adelaide. Picking up her transponder now." 
     "Good," Adama said. "Omega, open a channel." 
     "Yes, Commander," the bridge officer replied. Then Commander Allen's face appeared on a monitor. "Commander Allen on the line, sir." 
     "Commander," Adama nodded. "I see you're back early." 
     "Yes, sir," Allen replied. "I can give you a report right now: a whole lot of nothing. That system's totally dead It's empty of anything useful, and there's not a chance of life there. Nothing artificial, not even a marker buoy or a remote probe." 
      "I see," Adama said. "Any thoughts on why our visitor was patrolling that system?"
      Allen thought for a centon. "Commander, it's remote, out of the way, and the perfect place for someone to hide, or set up some kind of hidden base. Even if it's a prefabricated facility of some kind on a moon's surface. Pirates, smugglers, and other scum might find that system useful. Or maybe as a rendezvous. They may have been there just to discourage people from using it." 
      "Whatever they were doing there, that information died with them," Tigh commented. 
     Adama nodded. "Thank you, Commander. We'll have the daily situation briefing shortly." 
     "I'll be there, Commander."
     After Allen signed off, Adama went to the plot board, then back to Athena's station. "The alien data's now fully in our system, correct?" 
      "It is, Father." Athena replied. 
     "See if they have anything about the system Commander Allen just returned from." 
     Nodding, Athena typed in the command. The computer scanned the alien data, then something came up. "They just have a system designation. It comes out as CZ-7. And they're saying 'no useful resources.' There's something else." 
     Adama was curious. "What is it?" 
   "It's in a nested file, Commander. Hidden. Just a...Got it. It says here that the system's due to be mined soon. Along with a couple of other nearby systems." She looked at her father. "Why would they mine such a remote system?" 
     "And have two different and opposing assessments of it?" Adama wondered. 
     "Probably to keep others from using it as a rendezvous point?"thought Tigh. 
      "Or as a defensive barrier," Adama nodded. "If they're as paranoid as we think they are, it makes perfect sense." 
      "Nothing about these people surprises me now," Tigh admitted. 
     "Perhaps it's time to have another talk with the First Officer," Adama decided. "We'll do that following the briefing." 


      A couple of centars later, the principals were gathered again, either in the Galactica's Ward Room, or via com link. After giving a brief overview, Adama nodded to Doctor Wilker. "Doctor." 
     "Commander, everyone," the chief scientist nodded. "We've got some additional information on the target system, as well as the alien ship." He called up a holographic display. "There's not much new on the system, but there's a station, here, orbiting the Red Dwarf companion star." 
     "Any idea what it's for?" Apollo asked. 
     "It's planned to be part of their defense network. There's exploitable mineral resources on the third planet orbiting that companion star, and they plan on extending their defenses to cover it. The station, for now, simply extends their early-warning network, such as it is," said Wilker. 
     "They have gaps?" Byrne wondered. 
     "They do, Captain," Wilker said "Based on what we've found, there's several ways in and out of that system, and they wouldn't know you were there until you were nearly on top of the planet." 
      Adama nodded. "And the ship? 
     Chief Twilly and I have had the ship scanned from top to bottom, looking for any hidden smuggling compartments," said Wilker. "Nothing. We did check out his cargo bay, and apart from a landram-type vehicle, a couple of six-wheeled vehicles for cargo, and a prefabricated base-a small one. A small bunker, really, but one that could hold a dozen or so personnel for a sectan or two, that's it." 
     Pelias thought for a centon. "If he's not smuggling goods, then what would he be smuggling?" 
     Information," Allen said. "He's probably got information on a lot of people in their military and government. Whatever someone will pay for, and he probably trades information for who knows what?" 
     "Commander, that would fit with what I found out," Wagner said. 
     "No doubt, Sergeant," Adama said. "Anything else, Doctor?" 
     "We've still got some encrypted files, and that will occupy our full attention tonight and tomorrow," reported Wilker. "But we should have that material for you tomorrow." 
     "Thank you, Doctor," Adama said. "Sergeant, you had a talk with the alien captain today?" 
      Wagner nodded. "Yes, sir, I did. He did reveal some information, but when I was through, he was back to his usual arrogant self." 
     "Not a surprise," Xaviar commented. 
     "No, Sire," Wagner said. "He did confirm the location of the slave camp, and how many visits he made." 
     "How many?" Allen asked. 
     "Three," Wagner said. She looked at Petty Officer Clemens. "The first was to make the initial payment, the second was to make the final payment, inspect what was.....available, and take delivery." 
      When she heard that, Clemens closed her eyes. Old memories of how she and the other women had been degraded and humiliated, before she was pulled out of line and taken from the camp. 
      "And the third?" Tinia asked. 
     "That was an official visit, on behalf of their Fleet Command," said Wagner. "He also verified what we've known for some time. Earth was theirs, a long time ago, so they believe, and they want it back. And they don't care about the death and destruction that would result, because he said their gods have foreseen it." 
     "Bastard," said Byrne. 
     "And a greedy one," Wagner replied. "He admitted to bribery, blackmail, and extortion, and strongly hinted at murder. Almost like a crime family." 
     "Murder?" Apollo asked. 
      "He didn't come out and say it," Wagner said. "But he said that if someone met with a, well, a ....tragic accident, you'd be foolish not to take advantage of it. I'll bet any amount of money that he and his father aren't the only members of the family involved in this." 
     "Based on crime families back in the Colonies, that shouldn't surprise anyone," Baltar said. 
     "Or Earth," Byrne noted. 
     "Yes, Sir," Wagner agreed. "He also said how the war with the Ke'zar got started." 
      "Did he?" Xaviar said. Everyone saw Wagner nod. "What started the war?" 
      "Sire," Wagner said, "he got kind of... well...upset. The Ke'zar accused the aliens of planning to attack them, so the Kez'ar struck." 
     "Upset, Sergeant?" Tinia asked. "Why?" 
      "Siress," Wagner replied. "He accused the Ke'zar of attacking without warning or provocation, and I had to cut him down to size, because I reminded him of what his people had in mind for Earth, and he came across as being a hypocrite. I had to do it again when I reminded him that they had no right to take anyone from Earth, and he was pretty stubborn about that. Self-righteously arrogant, really." 
     "With their attitudes towards Earth?" Byrne said. "Not a surprise there." 
    "Indeed, Captain," Adama said. 
     "When I was finished," Wagner said, "he was back to his usual strutting self." 
     Heads nodded at that. "What about the First Officer?" Xaviar asked. 
    "We'll be talking to him later today," Adama said. "Commander Allen?" 
      Allen nodded. "I took Adelaide into the system where the ship engaged by the Galactica and the BaseShip came from. Not very much: an ice ball and a sun-skimming gas giant with a bunch of moons," he reported. "No obvious resources at all, and no life possible in that system." 
     "So what was he doing there?" Pelias asked. 
      "A patrol, perhaps?" Xaviar wondered. 
      "Logical," Moray said. "Or, perhaps that system and the nearby ones, including the one we are currently positioned, are part of a defensive perimeter." 
     "That is very possible, Command Centurion," Adama said, nodding. "We have also found some data that indicates that system is due to be mined soon, along with two others." 
     "Paranoia? Byrne asked. "That would be my guess." 
     "One more thing to ask the First Officer," Pelias agreed. "He's much more reasonable than the Captain has been." 
      "That he has, Sire," Adama said. "Colonel?" 
      "Our refueling should be completed in the next twenty-four centars," Tigh reported. "Again, assuming no technical issues or unwanted visitors." 
      "Excellent, Colonel." Tinia said. She turned to Major Croft. "And then we can concentrate on getting those people out." 
     "That we can, Siress," Croft agreed. 
     "Major," Wilker said. "We should have those two videos translated fully by tomorrow morning. You'll have them once we're finished." 
     "Thanks, Doc." 
      "And Major," Adama added. "We'll be working on getting you that imagery of the target you need. Once we have that, a final strike plan can be drawn up." 
      "The guys are already working on several possibles for the raid on the camp, Commander," Croft said. 
      Adama nodded again. "Keep at it, Major." He turned to Apollo. "Apollo, you and Orion continue
with the double patrols while we're here. We don't need any unwanted surprises." 
     "Yes, Commander," Apollo replied. 
      "By your command," said Orion. 
      Adama turned to Tigh and Baltar, who was on the com. "Keep the current alert status of the Fleet, and start coming up with strike plans. This just isn't the raid on the camp, but taking out that system's military capability." 
      Both nodded. 
      "Do you have anything to add, Petty Officer?" Adama asked Clemens. 
      "Commander, based on what I learned in that camp, and from Lemeshik? When you hit that camp, and hit them in that system? No matter how outgunned they are, they'll fight," Clemens said. "Tooth and nail, to the last gasp."
     Adama nodded. "Could you explain further? You know these people better than any of us." 
     "I'll try, Commander," Clemens said. "The best way I can put it is this: To them, all Humans are an inferior race. They've been taught that, and it's their official policy. It's ingrained almost from birth to the point of religious fanaticism. A holy war kind of cause. They even believe that they can go straight to their idea of paradise, if they die in battle against the infidels. Us, the Ke'zar, or anyone else who isn't them. You may be a lot more advanced than they are, in terms of technology, but to them, you're still a bunch of what they called us: 'heretics, inferiors, and spiritually decadent.'" 
      "Oh, God," groaned Byrne, and spared Allen a look. Allen just shook his head. Earth had it's own troubles with "holy warrior" types.
      "I get it," Apollo said. "Any of their commanders aren't going to want to lose to a race they despise." 
     "That's about it, Sir," Clemens replied. "They're also overconfident. One thing I did hear, while on that ship, was that they had an exercise simulating an attack. I don't know by whom, but I overheard some of their officers talking about it. I'm not fluent in their language by any means, but I did hear a few things. One of the officers was complaining that the winning side cheated."
      "Cheated?" Baltar asked.
      "Yes, cheated. I don't know what, but you might ask the First Officer. He was one of those who wasn't happy. They're also convinced that because of who they are, and what they believe, that they'll win. Anywhere, anytime, and against anyone. 'The gods have said so', or something like that," said Clemens. 
     "They'll get an education, like it or not, when we do move on them," Allen said. 
     "Quite so, Commander Allen," Adama said. "Thank you, Petty Officer," and he saw Clemens nod. "Anything else at the moment?" Heads shook no. "All right then, we're adjourned for now." 
     
     
      A couple of centars later, after both Byrne and Wagner had shuttled over from Constellation, it was time for another talk with the alien First Officer. After meeting with both Commander Adama and Sire Pelias, it was time to go to the Brig, where Vesper had the watch.
     "Commander?" 
     "We're here to have another talk with Sub-Commander Morovik," Adama said as he signed in. 
     "Yes, Commander," Vesper replied. "I'll need Sergeant Wagner's sidearm." 
 
     She nodded, and handed over her Mark-23 pistol. 
     "Thank you, Sergeant," Vesper nodded. "This way, please." 
     As they went into the Brig, the party heard the by-now usual shouting from the end of the hall. "Their Security Officer again, Commander. He's still pretty active. Every centar, it's something new. 'Loyalty to the Order', or 'Do not deal with heretics,' that sort of thing." 
    "Not just a political ideologue, but a religious one," Pelias observed. 
     "You could say that, Sire," Vesper said as he opened the cell door. "A total fanatic, Commander. I'll be right outside if you need anything."  
     "Thank you, Corporal," Adama said. "Sub-Commander Morovik, we meet again." 
     "Commander," Morovik nodded as he got up from the bunk. "I see you have brought the woman." 
      "Yes," Byrne said. "And given what happened to her at the hands of your people, she has scores to settle." 
     Morovik looked at Wagner. "Could you explain?" 
      Wagner nodded. "I was taken from Earth, at random, simply because I lived near a silo field for intercontinental nuclear missiles. Your....people gave me a very unpleasant medical examination, and then I was interrogated about the missile field, the support base, and a nearby interceptor base-where I was stationed. When I refused, they waited a bit, then this man came." She took out a picture of the interrogator known as Scarface and handed it to Morovik. "He tortured me, and when I refused to tell 
him what he wanted, they put me in a stasis tube for transport to your home planet. The ship got into a fight with the Ke'zar, and battle damage resulted in a runaway FTL drive. They wound up in orbit around a world which could not support the crew, and they committed mass suicide, leaving me in a stasis tube for forty years." 
      "And the Colonials found the ship, and revived you," Morovik finished. "And you are not only going home, but you also seek revenge." 
     "Very perceptive, Sub-Commander," Pelias said. "You could say that the latter is her current goal at the moment. Revenge upon those who planned, orchestrated, and helped to carry out the abductions from her world." 
     Morovik looked at her. "I have never been to Te'rea." 
     
     "I know, they've told me," Wagner said. "And neither has your Captain. His service record confirms it. The ones who took me are dead, and where they belong. Right now, I want to know if you've met that man." She pulled out a piece of paper from a folder she was carrying, and  pointed to the screen cap from her interrogation video. 
     "Tsernavia? Yes, I have met him. Once, at an official function. I believe it was to mark the anniversary of our government's assumption of power," Morovik said. "He came across to the military men there as someone that one did not wish to meet on his terms. If you valued your life and limb, that is." 
     "Have you been to the camp?" Byrne asked. 
     "No, I have not," Morovik said. "When Lemeshik went there, he went only with two of the junior officers, two that he has.....sponsored and groomed, ever since they were assigned to the ship." 
     "I see..." Adama said. "We have also uncovered considerable evidence of your Captain's....unsavory activities. Blackmail, bribery, extortion, and a strong suggestion of murder." 
     "As I said earlier, Commander," Morovik nodded. "Disgraceful. He has completely dishonored the uniform he wears, as well as his office." 
     "You're not surprised," Wagner said. "You seem to expect it." 
     "I do," Morovik replied, a touch of sadness in his voice. "Regrettably, he is not the only senior officer engaged in such conduct, and his is not the only family." 
     Pelias nodded. "You know of his father." 
     "I do, and if not for the father's protection, Lemeshik would have been in front of a military court to answer for his misdeeds." 
     "And not just him," Wagner observed. "He's got relatives equally dirty." 
     "He does," Morovik said. "You remind me of an inspector." 
      "On my world, I'm a law enforcement officer in my civilian job," she said. "So, he's part of a crime family?" 
     "A political one," Morovik admitted. "They refuse to get involved with ordinary criminal activity, but anything that benefits the family, and enables their power, status, and money to grow, the better. And if they have information on the deeds of others, deeds that those people would want kept hidden..."
     "Blackmail." Adama said. 
     "And extortion," Pelias added. "The murders?" 
     "It has been said-whispered is the better term, I should say, that there have been a few unsolved killings of ranking officers and even a couple of religious personalities." Morovik said. "Again, not just them, but several other families are involved in such conduct as well." 
      "Which may find its way to your authorities in some form or another," Adama said. "Changing the subject, we have discovered that several nearby systems are due to be mined. Perhaps you might enlighten us as to why?" 
     "Our....longstanding concerns about the Ke'zar should be sufficient, Commander," Morovik nodded. "Though we have not encountered other space-faring races in this sector as of yet, there is that added concern. Until we met you." 
     "Speaking of the Ke'zar," Pelias said. "We have heard that they attacked you first. Would you care to comment on that?" 
     "I was barely starting my cadet training when the war began, Sire," Morovik said. "We were told, and still are told, that the Ke'zar struck without warning or provocation. They informed us that the fleet we were assembling-"
     Wagner snarled at him. "Your invasion force for Earth, you mean." 
      "Yes," Morovik admitted. "They said that the fleet was a threat to them, and wanted assurances that it was not so. Our diplomats, such as they were, told them the fleet was none of their concern." 
     "Obviously, they felt differently," Adama said. 
     "They did, Commander. And the Ke'zar attacked," Morovik said. "Just over a year, and we had to put our sanctuary plan into motion. Before the Ke'zar launched their final offensive." 
     The party nodded. 
     "I see," Adama said. "Obviously, you have no information as to what happened after your departure." 
     "That is correct, Commander," Morovik replied. "If the Supreme Command knows, they have not shared that information with the rest of the military, let alone the general population." 
     "You're assuming that the Ke'zar have won a decisive victory, and have either occupied your world, or destroyed it?" Byrne asked. 
     Morovik nodded. "That is correct. If our home planet is under their control, of course we want it back. And a full measure of revenge extracted upon the Ke'zar for that, and of course, the same goes if the planet was laid waste." He waited a bit. "Surely, you can understand the sentiment."
     Adama nodded sympathetically. "Yes. Understandable, Sub-Commander. There is one more question. Petty Officer Clemens mentioned to us that she overheard some of your officers arguing over the results of an exercise, and there were accusations of cheating. She placed you there."
      "She has learned our language?" Morovik asked. This was a surprise.
      "All of the prisoners have, according to her," Wagner said. "None are fluent by any means, but they have picked up enough." 
     "Ah. Yes, I do recall an exercise where a Ke'zar attack was war-gamed out. The results of the game were very unsatisfactory, and the discussions were....heated. I don't recall her being there." 
     "She was in the Captain's suite. And she was listening," Wagner replied. 
     Morovik nodded. "In that case...yes, the Fleet's Chief of Staff overruled the referees and essentially changed the outcome of the exercise. A devastating defeat was turned into a major victory. At his whim." 
     Commander," Byrne said. "I need to tell you about a similar exercise prior to a battle, and the cheating in pre-battle wargaming, in our Second World War. Overconfidence, hubris, and underestimating the enemy led to a major defeat for that party."
     "It was, Commander," Morovik replied. "Accusations were made on both sides of cheating." 
      "Maybe we'll find those documents in your data banks." Adama then gestured to the party. "Thank you, Sub-Commander. Again, once this situation is resolved, you and your crew will be returned." 
    "Commander," Morovik nodded. 
     "Until our next conversation," Adama said, and the party left the cell. As Wagner was reclaiming her weapon, Adama asked. "Comments?" 
     "First time I've met him," Wagner said. "He's a lot better than his CO." 
     "Much more pleasant," Adama agreed. "And more willing to talk." 
      Then Pelias' PDA buzzed. "Excuse me," he said. He checked the PDA, then a scowl came over his face. 
     "Sire?" Adama asked. 
      "One of my staff. She's picked up a rumor that IFB may know of Petty Officer Clemens' presence in the Fleet." 
     "How?" Byrne and Wagner said, almost simultaneously. 
      "She doesn't know. But there's something going around that we've picked up another refugee from Earth," Pelias said. 
     "Of all the....bastards!" Wagner yelled. Then she composed herself. "Sorry, Commander." 
     "No apologies necessary, Sergeant," Adama replied, with a faint smile. "And those are my feelings as well. How did they find out, Sire?" 
     "That, she doesn't know," Pelias admitted. "But there isn't alot that goes on they don't find out about, sir."
     "Petty Officer Clemens has been in the Officer's Club once, and someone could have seen her there and overheard us. It could be someone in LifeCenter, or even a deck hand in the landing bay," Byrne noted. "She was on the Rising Star once, but she was in a Colonial uniform, and no way to tell at first glance who she was." 
     "Still, it's enough for those scum in IFB to start sniffing around," Wagner said. "Sir, it's just like some of the media back home on Earth. Once those slime get wind of a secret, they're like sharks following a blood trail in the water." Then she explained the term to Adama and Pelias. 
     "I'll speak to Heller," said Adama. "If I have to, I'll invoke military security on this." 
     "Thanks, Commander," Byrne said. "All we need is a few more days, and once we've hit the camp and gotten those people out, then we can lift the blackout. Because there will be some who will want to tell their stories." 

     While Byrne and Wagner headed back to Alpha Bay and their shuttle to Constellation, Adama and Pelias went to the Commander's office. There, Adama contacted the Bridge. "Bridge, Commander Adama." 
     "Mercedes here, Commander." 
     "Get me Heller on the Broadcast Ship, please. And feed it to my quarters."
     "Right away, sir." 
     A centon later, the monitor showed Heller's face. "Commander?" 
     "Heller, I understand IFB may be...spreading a rumor. Something supposedly about a recent....event. Something about a new refugee from Earth?" Adama asked.
     "Well, I..."
     "Heller...." Adama said, a stern expression on his face. 
     "Commander, we hear things all the time," Heller replied. Then he saw the scowl on Adama's face deepen. "Yes, Commander. We've heard rumors that a new Earther is in the Fleet."
     "Heller, right now, I'm invoking military security clauses on this subject. When this situation is resolved, you will be allowed to continue pursuing things, and to report on it, but the last thing that supposed individual needs is media attention of any sort," Adama told Heller. 
     "Commander-" 
     "Heller, Serina was willing to abide by those restrictions, if you'll recall," Adama reminded him. "If Zara and Zed want to graduate to her level, they need to learn to do so as well."
      Like that could ever happen.
     Heller's face deflated on the monitor. "I understand. But, Commander, when they smell a story, they're on it like daggits after meat." 
     "Then put them on a leash," Adama said. "As soon as this situation is resolved, the news blackout will be lifted." 
     Heller let out a sigh. "Yes, Commander. I'll tell them, but they won't like it."
     "They do not have to like it, Heller."
     "Understood, Commander.."
     Adama nodded. "Thank you, Heller." He saw the broadcast chief nod on the monitor, then the screen went dark. Adama turned to Pelias. "Well, Sire, that went smoothly. More so than I expected." 
     "I'd still like to know who their source is, Commander," Pelias replied. "Now I understand the sometimes, well.....shaky relations between the media and the military in Captain Byrne's country." 
     "Yes, Sire. And I do agree with you," Adama said. "It was no different at times, back in the Colonies. War news and such. But, as Captain Byrne said, it could be anyone, though the number of people who do know her true identity is small." 
     The young Sire nodded. "True, Commander, but still....at least this bought us a few more days."  
     "More than enough time, Sire," Adama said. "Our refueling should be done sometime early tomorrow, then we can concentrate on planning and executing the operation.


     When Byrne and Wagner returned to Constellation, they found both Jen and Jessica in the small galley next to his cabin, fixing dinner. For Jessica, it was something to do, and to her, it was therapy, being able to create, with her own hands, something she wanted, not what the guards told her to cook when she worked in the camp kitchen. "Thanks, Jen. I really needed this," she smiled, putting together a salad. The ingredients were...new to her, but a salad nonetheless.
     "Hey, anytime, Roomie," Jen replied. "Right now, you need something to do while they're getting ready to help your friends. And this is a good way to start." 
     "So what'll happen when they get out?" Jessica asked. 
     "Don't know, but they might do what they did with us," Jen replied, spicing some pieces of meat. "Commander Adama had the Main Dining Lounge on the Rising Star cleared for a private party, him, me, and my Dad," 
     "Can they handle fifty or more people like that?" 
     "Girl, they could handle five hundred," Jen said. "At least, that what they said."
     Then Byrne and Wagner, along with Mr. Dante and Mr. Malik, came in. "Mmm! We smell food! Dinner ready?" Byrne asked, sniffing the air and rubbing his hands together. 
     Jen nodded. "Just about," she said, placing the food on the table. 
     As they ate, Byrne and Wagner mentioned the apparent leak. "We don't know who, but somebody talked to IFB, and they've got wind of you," Byrne told Jessica. 
     
     "Oh, that's just great," she replied. "Just what I need. Any idea who?" 
     "No, Pelias said," Byrne said. "But there's not that many who know your true identity, and all it takes is one to blab, and someone who hears that to inform IFB. They have a 'tipster' line, and all it takes is one person, sending a text on a PDA, and they're off and running."
     "More like sharks in the water," Wagner nodded. "They can go after somebody like it's a feeding frenzy." 
     Dante nodded agreement. "Back in the Colonies, there were news outfits that were very, what's the term? Sensationalistic? Seeing everyone nod, he went on. "They'd jump on anything and everything. Anything to get ratings and make a few cubits. And they had a reputation for.....stretching the truth." 
    "What we call 'tabloid' media on Earth," Byrne said, and Wagner nodded. Furrowed eyebrows from the others brought forth an explanation.
     "Some things transcend distance, it seems," said Dante.
     "How'd this IFB get to be that bad?" Jessica wanted to know. 
     "Long story short," Dante said. "Most of the media types who survived came from outfits that were just like that. Now, if Serena had stayed at her old job, she might have set them straight." He explained to Jessica what had happened to Serena after the Holocaust, and her death at Kobol.
     "So who did leak Jessica's being here to IFB?" Jen asked. 
     "Like I said, it could be anyone," Byrne told his daughter. "Zara and Zed, though....Commander Adama said he'd invoke military security, and make sure they don't report it until this is all over." 
     "That's a relief," Jessica said. "Although his order might only lead to them inventing what they don't know. In any case, next time I go to the Rising Star-and Lauren's promised me a return trip-I don't want a camera crew following me around." 
     "No one does," Malik observed. "Except for the reporters, that is. Those scum.....how they consider what they do an 'honest living' no one can understand." 
     "I take it there's pretty strict controls on the media on your planet?" 
     "Indeed. The media is actually controlled by the state, and those who are in the news media know what they can and cannot publish or broadcast." Malik replied. 
    "On pain of death," Dante quipped. 
     "In some cases, yes," Malik said, matter-of-fact. "The word of the Zohr is law. One step outside of it, and your life can be over, very quickly."
     "Just like in North Korea, Nazi Germany, or Saddam's Iraq," Byrne said. "No offense intended, Mr. Malik." 
      "None taken, Captain," Malik replied. "And I do understand what you're saying, sir. A very oppressive government will want total control of the media, but on my world, the media, though controlled by the state, is not a propaganda arm. The government simply tells the media what subjects are suitable and which are not." 
     Wagner thought for a moment. "So they're heavily censored, in other words?" 
     "Exactly, Sergeant." 
      The dinner party thought for a centon. "Enough of that," Byrne said. "Time for the movie. Petty Officer, it's still your choice. You've got a lot of making up to do." 
     Jessica smiled. "Thank you, sir," she replied. Then she and Jen went to the video library. "Let's see....here we go." 
     "What?" Wagner asked. 
     "The Hunt for Red October. The last movie I saw with my then-boyfriend before deploying for the Gulf War." 
     "Submarine movie," said Byrne. "Saw it in Annapolis while I was at the Naval Academy. Good choice, Petty Officer. Sean Connery is always great. Pull up a chair, sit back, and enjoy." 

     
     The next morning, after his usual light breakfast, and discussing Council business with Siress Tinia-who he had told of the leak to IFB, and the imposition of military security on the matter, Commander Adama went to the Bridge, and found Colonel Tigh waiting. "Good morning, Tigh." 
      "Good morning, Commander," Tigh replied. "I have the morning situation report ready." 
      Adama nodded as he took a pad from Omega and scanned it. "Let's have it, Colonel." 
     "Patrols continue to show the system, and the surrounding space for a parsec, clear. And no signals detected on the com frequencies that our friends use." 
     "Good. We'll be here for another day, so continue the double patrols," Adama said. He signed the pad with a stylus and handed it back to Omega. "Thank you, Omega." 
     "Commander," the Bridge Officer replied. 
     "Status on the tylium mining?" 
     "The mining teams should be finished by 1200 today, and then they'll start closing down and sanitizing the site," Tigh reported. 
     "Excellent," Adama replied, taking another pad, this one from Athena. "And our tanks will be topped up by then?" 
    "Chief Mining Engineer Clement is certain of it, Commander," Tigh replied. 
     Adama nodded, then returned the pad to his daughter. "Thank you, Athena." 
    "Father," she replied. 
     Then Adama turned back to his Exec. "And anything overnight from Wilker's people?" 
    "He says there's been some progress on the remaining encrypted files. That material should be available by the afternoon." 
      "Very good, Tigh. Anything else?" 
      "That's it for now, Commander," the XO said. 
     "Thank you, Colonel."

     In Wilker's lab, they had an unexpected visitor: Reese, from Council Security. And he had a request for Hummer. 
     "Got a centar or so?"
     "We've been busy with all this stuff for the Commander, but sure," Hummer replied. "What's up?" 
     Reese smiled. "We've broken up a few of your kindred souls; a half-dozen or so kids with way too much time on their hands, and easy access to computers. They were breaking into some secured databases all over the Fleet, just for fun. The Rising Star's guest list, for starters, IFB's databases, things like that. Nothing really sensitive or remotely classified, otherwise we'd call in Castor and his guys, but they got some stuff. There's an IFB database that's encrypted, and we'd like to know what these....jerks were after." 
     "I'll take a look," Hummer said. It would be a decent break from all this alien stuff, and they were nearly finished with the material needed for the mission, then they could hit the aliens' historical databases, and see what had happened in the war with the Ke'zar. Reese handed him a disc. "What's here?"
     "Not sure. He just listed it as 'Miscellaneous, IFB.'" Reese replied. 
     Nodding, Hummer put it in the computer, and soon, data came up, and there was an index of encrypted files. Curious, he attacked the first file with one of his own decryption algorithms, and it was child's play to break. "It's IFB's 'tipster' data."
      Reese was surprised. "Their gossip line's encrypted?" 
     "It is," Hummer said. He went through the files. "Uh-oh."
     "What?" 
     "That lounge singer on the Rising Star? Leona, I think. Anyway, there's a video of her, coming out of the shower, and she's getting ready to...entertain a friend. And they're as naked as the day they were born." 
      "Oh, boy," Reese said. "What else?' 
     "Let's see...gossip about Council members. Some sweet mushie bits on some of the Warriors. Trashy...well well. Oh...frak!  This isn't good!"
     "What?" 
     "You'll see." Hummer went to a telecom. "Bridge, this is Technician Hummer. Is Commander Adama available?" 
    "He is," Omega responded. 
    "Could you ask him to come down to the lab at his earliest convenience? There's something here he really needs to see."
    "Right away, Technician."

     After being informed by Omega, Adama went to Wilker's lab. When he arrived, he found Wilker going over some new alien data. "Doctor," 
     "Commander," Wilker said "We've cracked the last alien encrypted files. We've got their communications codes, all of them." 
    "Excellent, Doctor," Adama replied. "Where's Technician Hummer? He said he had something for me as well." 
     Hummer waved. "Over here, Commander," 
     Adama joined Hummer and Reese. "Lieutenant," Adama nodded. "What brings you here?" 
     After a brief explanation from Reese, Adama nodded, and Hummer called up the data in question.
    "Here it is, Commander, and the sender as well." 
     Adama took one look at the information on the monitor and scowled. "Lieutenant, as of this moment, this particular information is now classified under military security. You're to forget you even saw it. For now, at any rate. In fact, you were never here. Do I make myself understood?" 
    "Commander," Reese saluted. "I, uh, Yes, sir. You do. But sir, what's this all about?" 
    "It's classified, Lieutenant." 
     "I see, sir." 
     "Thanks, both of you, for bringing this to my attention."
     The two nodded. 
    "Dismissed, Lieutenant,"
    "Sir," Reese nodded and left the lab. 
     After Reese left, Adama turned to the tech. "I'd like a couple printouts of this, please." 
      Hummer nodded and made the printouts. After giving them to Adama, he asked. "Sir, does this mean what I think it does?" 
     "It does. I, along with Captain Byrne and Sire Pelias, have been told of a leak to IFB. This gives us the source of that leak," Adama replied. "Good work, Hummer."
    "Thank you, sir." 
     "And the alien data?"
     "Commander, we've just about finished with what's needed tactically," Hummer replied. "We can go after their Historical Database anytime." 
      "Good," said Adama. "Limit yourself to anything about the Ke'zar, their war, and, of course, anything to do with Earth."
     "Yes, Commander," Hummer said. "There's still a few files on the Captain's personal computer, but we'll have those done by the afternoon." 
     "Well done," Adama nodded. He then headed to his office, and perused the pages of data. Who had leaked the information wasn't a surprise to him, but he was surprised how fast it had happened. Captain Byrne would find this interesting reading, he surmised, and given how protective he was of his crew in general, and the Earthers in particular, he would not want to be around when the Captain found out. For he did have a temper, and wasn't shy about exercising it when necessary
     
     
     That afternoon, the principals gathered again, either in the Galactica's Ward Room, or via com link. "I see that we're all here," Adama noted. He nodded to Wilker. "All right, Doctor. Let's begin." 
     The scientist rose. "Commander, everyone, we've cracked the remaining encrypted files on the alien
ship's computer. Those last files were under some very tight security protocols, and it took some brute force on the part of our technicians, but we've cracked them. The aliens' communications codes, ladies and gentlemen." 
     "All of their codes?" Tigh asked, incredulous.
     "That's right, Colonel," Wilker said. "We now have the ability to read all of their communications. From the low-level codes all the way up to their most secure transmissions." 
     "Well done, Doctor," Adama said. "Make sure the Galactica's signals intelligence section, and the BaseShip's, have these codes." 
     "Commander?" Allen asked. 
     "Commander Allen?" 
      "Sir, I'd request that both Adelaide and Constellation also have this capability. Because a cloaked ship is going to have to go into that system and look around. Not only does that ship get the imagery that Croft needs to finalize the raid on the camp, but we can also listen in on their communications, and see if they're talking about the two missing ships. And any other changes too recent for Petty Officer Clemens to be aware of." 
     "Good thinking, Ced," Byrne nodded. "I'll second that request." 
     Adama nodded as well. "Excellent point, both of you." He turned to Wilker. "Make it so, Doctor." 
    "Will do, Commander." 
     "Anything else from your end, Doctor?" 
     "Yes, Commander, we do have some new material. It's the remaining encrypted files on the Captain's own computer. Among other things, we've found a complete file of all of his....family correspondence. Routine matters, along with those of a more.....shady side, you could say," Wilker said. 
     Byrne and Wagner looked at each other, and he whistled. "Commander," Wagner said. "That's material that any law enforcement agency would be drooling over, There's probably enough there to put the whole family in prison-and keep them there for a while." 
     "Indeed, Sergeant," Pelias added. "Commander, we need to make use of this in some way." 
     "And so we will, Sire," Adama nodded in agreement. "One way or another, we shall make use of it." 
    "More leverage on the Captain?" Baltar wondered aloud.
     "A number of possibilities present themselves," Xaviar admitted. 
    "They do," Adama said. "Doctor, is there anything else?" 
     "We're starting tonight work on their historical databases. Any information on the Ke'zar, including the war, and of course, anything to do with Earth, is at the top of the list." 
    "Commander?" Byrne asked. "There's something else, and with everything that's been going on, we've forgotten it." 
     "And that is?" Tinia wanted to know. 
     "It's really simple, Siress," Byrne said. "Basic data on their homeworld. We know its symbol, and just having some basic data on the planet itself would be good to have. In case we wind up getting close enough to take a look." 
    Pelias nodded. "Good idea, Captain." He turned to Adama, who nodded. 
     "We'll get that as well, Commander," Wilker said. 
     "Very well, Doctor," Adama said. "Is that all?" 
     "For now, Commander," Wilker replied as he sat down.
     Nodding, Adama turned to Tigh. "Colonel?" 
     "Our refueling is completed, Commander," replied the Exec. "All of our tanks are now topped up, and the miners are in the midst of closing down operations and sterilizing the mine site." 
    "Good work, Colonel," Adama said. "Pass that to the miners. How long until they're finished?"
    "By 1200 tomorrow, Commander." 
    "And no one will know who was mining?" Lydia asked. This was the first time in several days she'd said something in a briefing. 
     "Whoever stumbles across the site will know there was a mining operation, Siress," Tigh replied. "They just won't know who." 
      "I see," Lydia nodded. "Very good."
      Xaviar looked at Adama "Now, Commander, we can at last think ahead. And get into serious planning for the mission." 
     "Quite so, Sire," agreed Adama. "Colonel," and nodding also at Moray, "And Command Centurion. Start looking at systems close to the target. We'll have to hide the Fleet near the target, so that we can return to the Fleet quickly if the need should arise." 
    "Understood, Commander." 
    "By your command," Moray replied. "Commander, If I may?" 
    "Go ahead, Command Centurion," Adama motioned towards him. 
    "Would a Brown Dwarf do in this regard? Logically, a star system would be an obvious place for any search to concentrate on, and a Brown Dwarf, with nothing to offer anyone, would be less likely to be searched by the aliens." Heads nodded at that. Deep recon missions into Cylon territory had often used Brown Dwarves as hiding places, to plant supply caches or as covert listening posts. And the Cylons had done the same. 
     "An excellent suggestion, Command Centurion," Adama said. "Colonel, see if there's anything in the alien data to fit the suggestion." 
     "Commander," Tigh replied. 
     "And once we have the imagery Major Croft needs?" Tinia asked. 
     "We can sit down and come up with a plan that not only gets the prisoners out of that camp," Pelias said, nodding at Petty Officer Clemens' face on the vid screen. "But also destroys that system's military capability." 
    "Taking out the shipyard and stardocks certainly does that," Byrne said. "And it does any non-spacefaring races in this sector a favor." 
     "How so?" Lydia asked. 
     "It means that the aliens won't be imposing their brand of 'peace and justice' on them anytime soon," Wagner said. Not for the first time was Lydia demonstrating a brand of naivety, she thought, and her CO was nodding as she said that. 
      Croft spoke next. "The military garrison north of the town also has to go. They can get a reaction force organized an on their way to the camp if we don't hit them." 
    "The spaceport?" Tinia asked. "It's a dual civilian-military facility." 
     "We need to take it out," Apollo said. "They've likely got ships based there that could threaten the ground force's extraction. As well as be a threat in numbers to whatever force we've got in orbit." 
     "That's a given," Adama said. "Anything of military value in that system, apart from the settlements themselves, is a target. Not just on the surface, but also in orbit. The stardocks have been mentioned, and the same goes for any ships present. The orbital stations as well." 
     "Agreed," Baltar said. "Not to mention any support fire for the raiding party." 
     "We'll have a final meeting once the recon mission returns, and finalize the strike plan," Adama said. "For now, however, those suggestions are all valid, and should find their way into the final plan." 
     Heads nodded again. 
    "What about taking the commandant of the camp alive?" Pelias asked. 
     "Major?" Adama nodded in Croft's direction. 
    "If we can, we will, Commander," Croft replied. "He could become a bargaining chip, if we found we needed one, with these aliens." He paused, noticing Adama's slight discomfiture. Having been kidnapped by aliens himself, not too long ago, the idea was perhaps a bit close to the bone for him, however it fell out. "No guarantees, though." 
     "He's the kind of guy who's all powerful towards prisoners, but....." Jessica said. 
    "Yes, Petty Officer?" Adama asked. 
     "Sir, there's no telling how he'll act when the camp gets hit," she said. "He might barricade himself in his office or quarters, and go down fighting, like the True Believer fanatic, or he might try to hide somehow, like the sniveling little coward I suspect he really is." 
     "If we get him, fine," Croft said. "If not, that's his problem." 
     "This can all be covered in detail at the final planning session," Adama decided. "For now....Colonel, Baltar, continue the present alert status of the Fleet." 
     Both Tigh and Baltar nodded. "Understood, Adama," Baltar replied. 
   "Apollo, you and Orion maintain the double patrols. Our refueling's finished, but we're here for at least another day," Adama told his fighter leaders. 
     "Yes, Commander," Apollo said. 
     "By your command," Orion added. 
     "Who goes on the recon to the target?" Byrne asked. 
      "That will be decided tomorrow," Adama said. "Any other questions?" There were none. "Very well, that's it for now." 


     That evening, in Byrne's office and cabin, Petty Officer Clemens shared some more of her experiences. How the prisoners tried to mark holidays back home, guessing the dates, and trying anything to keep ties to home alive, no matter how far away they were. One of the prisoners, a young man from England, was also an Anglican priest, and he covertly gave services, though the penalty for such "heresy" if he was ever caught, could be death. Or, how those who were military personnel, and there were about fifteen among the prisoners, followed the lead of the highest-ranking military officer, a British Army Captain. Even the civilians were in awe of him, and Capt. Ian Ashby was felt to be the spokesman to the prison staff for the prisoners. Whether or not they listened to his requests, though, was another matter. 
      "When we get them out," Byrne said when she was finished, "I'd like to have a long talk with this guy." 
     "One thing he wanted, sir," Jessica added. "He wanted those who were military to never forget it. Even if we were who knew how many light-years from home. He wanted us to maintain that sense of cohesion. Of esprit d'corps. He felt it vital to our survival, both individually, and as Humans." 
     "Sort of like us," Lauren said. "Though those two Il Fadim councilmen would've gone nuts-they didn't like it with three people from Earth who were military, and fifteen or so more?" 
     Byrne nodded. "Be glad those....people are several light-years at least in our wake." 
     "I am," Lauren said. "So, who will we get?" 
     "One thing at a time, Sergeant," Byrne said. "Though I imagine the Americans would want to come be with us. The Brits and Aussies might go to Adelaide, and we'd split the others.  But it'll be up to them." 
     "They would, sir," Jessica said. "I've only been here a few days, but Lauren's already taught me how to use a pad, Jen's helped me get computer literate, and if I can fit in, they can." 
     Mr. Malik nodded. "A commendable attitude, Petty Officer. What about the civilians, though?" 
   "We'll find something for them," Dante said. "The civilians aboard now do help out with cleaning and maintenance, and they do form first-aid or fire-fighting parties when Battle Stations sounds." 
      "Quite so, Mr. Dante," Byrne noted. "Start thinking along those lines as well. As for any military personnel, we'll see if we can't find duties aboard ship that are somewhat comparable to what they had on Earth. If it's possible. If not, we'll see what retraining can be done." 
     "Yes, sir," Dante nodded. 
      Jen then looked at her Dad, and both nodded. "Enough shop talk," Byrne said. "Time to pick out a movie." He looked at Jessica. "Still your choice, Petty Officer." 
     "Do you have Blazing Saddles?" 
     Byrne smiled. That had been a favorite comedy of Jen's mother, and she had requested a copy in her packet. "We do." 
    "That's it, sir." 
    "Okay, then. Jen, get the disk, then everyone else sit back, enjoy, and have a few laughs." 


      The next morning, Commander Adama went to the Galactica's bridge. He found Colonel Tigh there waiting, as usual. "Good morning, Colonel." 
     "Good morning, Commander," the Exec replied. "The morning report's ready." 
     "Thank you, Colonel," Adama nodded as he took a pad from Omega. "Go ahead." 
     "The mine site should be fully closed down and sterilized by this afternoon," Tigh reported. "Given the mine's location, someone would have to look very hard to find the site." 
     "Since it was at the floor of a large impact crater," Adama commented, "that would be an understatement of the yahren." Once the mine was stripped and sanitized of everything they wanted, a few well-placed charges would bring the side of the huge crater down, burying it forever. "What's next?" he asked as he signed the pad with a stylus and handed it back to Omega. 
    "Patrols continue to show the area clear for a full parsec in all directions. And still no alien communications detected. We're scanning the whole spectrum, Commander. Nothing yet." 
     "Let's hope it stays that way," Adama said as Athena brought a pad for his attention. "What else?" 
     "I've already had a talk via conference line with Command Centurion Moray. We're having another one later this morning," Tigh said. 
     "Any possible locations to conceal the Fleet while the mission's underway?" 
     "There's three or four possible locations," Tigh acknowledged. "No Brown Dwarves as yet, but we're still checking."
     "Keep at it," Adama said. He signed the pad with a stylus and handed it back to his daughter. "Thank you, Athena," and she nodded. "Anything else?" 
    "Wilker's people have some information on the war with the Ke'zar. Though it's not as detailed as one would expect." 
     Adama thought for a centon, and he could easily divine the reason was for that. "They still consider themselves at war, Tigh. Any detailed information on the war, as in battle strategies, key commanders, tactics, and so on, is likely highly classified. Have Wilker check the Captain's computer for any such files. And see if there's still encrypted files on the mainframe. If they're got classified information on the Ke'zar and the war...." 
     "It's on either one," finished Tigh. "I'll relay that to Wilker." 
     "Excellent, Colonel," Adama said. "Anything else?" 
     "That's it for now, Commander. Until the situation briefing." 
     "Thank you, Tigh." 
     "Commander."

     That afternoon, the principals either gathered in Galactica's Ward Room, or were present via com link, for the daily situation briefing. Adama looked around the table, or on the various monitors, and saw that everyone was present. "Now that we're all here," he nodded. "Doctor Wilker?" 
     The chief scientist stood. "Commander, everyone," he began. "We've started work on the aliens' historical databases, with primary emphasis on the war with the Ke'zar. Those files were also encrypted, much to our surprise, but we've gotten into them." 
     "What?" Pelias asked. "Historical files encrypted?" 
     "Yes, Sire," Wilker replied. "They were, but we've taken care of that. As to why they were encrypted?" He paused. "I have no idea at present." 
     "Perhaps I can offer an explanation," Xaviar chimed in. "These people still consider themselves to be at war, correct?" 
     "Exactly, Sire," Adama said. "Given their general paranoia, it's not at all surprising." 
     "And so," Baltar added from the BaseShip, "any after-action reports, things of that nature, are still classified, are they not?"
     "The aliens consider them to be," Wilker said. "The documents we've found so far are meant for officers' eyes only." 
     Apollo nodded. "So what do we have right now?" 
      "What we have now, is the run-up to their war, and the opening strike," Wilker said. "We know from previously deciphered documents from the derelict that the Ke'zar struck first. The aliens were assembling their Earth invasion force, and had run an exercise, and were preparing a second-" 
     "With a new Fleet Commander," Byrne reminded everyone. "The previous one was....'relieved.'" 
     Annoyed, Wilker nodded, then continued. "The Ke'zar sent a diplomatic note, and the aliens basically told them to mind their own business. And as we know now..."
     "The Ke'zar didn't like that, and they attacked," Tinia finished. 
    "Yes, Siress," Wilker said. "They struck three systems, simultaneously, each with overwhelming force, and that's where the deciphered material ends for the moment." 
      "Anything else of note, Doctor?" Adama wanted to know. 
      "We've found the basic information on their homeworld, as Captain Byrne suggested at the last briefing." He called up a holographic display. "It's about the size of Caprica, with a similar atmosphere, in terms of composition and pressure. and has five main continents, as you can see here, as well as being sixty-five percent covered in water. It's the third planet from its star, in a system of seven. Fairly well populated, and it has two moons, both of which are, or were, serving as bases and as starship construction facilities. All of this, of course, is pre-Ke'zar information." 
     "I would expect that those bases, facilities, as well as anything in orbit, not to mention bases on the surface, of military value, have been....dismantled, so to speak," Xaviar said. 
     "That's a given, Sire," Byrne said. "I would, if I was in command of that final assault."
     "Indeed," Adama said. "Is that all, Doctor?" 
      Wilker shook his head. "One last thing, Commander. We've correlated this with the information from the Derelict." He was referring to the ship Wagner had been found on. "The aliens reported that ship missing after a battle. The second battle of the war, in fact." 
     Hearing that, Wagner was incredulous. "They got diverted, Doc?" 
 "They did," Wilker replied. "The ship was ordered to join a battle group, and it was reported missing, not destroyed, after the engagement. It was three days after they'd put you in stasis." 
 "So, if that ship hadn't been diverted," she said, "I would probably be there with the others in that camp?" 
 "In all likelihood, yes," Wilker nodded. 
 Now it was Jessica's turn to give a hug to Wagner. "Be glad you weren't there," she whispered. 
    "Doc," Byrne asked, "Anything on that prison planet? The Ke'zar had to have taken it prior to going for the homeworld." 
    "We're looking for any information," said Wilker. "That particular symbol has come up, and we're running down any leads." 
     "Very good, Doctor," Adama said. "Is that all for now?" 
     "It is, Commander," Wilker said as he sat down. "We'll have more tomorrow." 
     "Thank you, Doctor," Adama nodded. "Colonel?" He motioned to Tigh. 
     "The mine site's been totally sterilized and cleared.  Unless they're looking for it, no one will know it was even there." 
    "Very good, Colonel," Pelias said. 
     "I've also been speaking with Command Centurion Moray," Tigh added, nodding at Moray's image on the monitor. "We've found several possibilities for concealing the Fleet while the mission's underway." 
      I believe the Command Centurion mentioned Brown Dwarves as a possibility," Xaviar said. "Have you found any?"
      "We have not, as yet," Moray said. "However, the alien data shows four systems close to the target world that could be used to conceal the Fleet. Systems not of any use to them, but would be useful from our standpoint." 
     "There's something else, Sire," Tigh added. "The aliens' astronomers may not have found any in this sector. Either they don't have adequate equipment..."
     "Or they just haven't detected any," Tinia finished. "We'll have to do some scans ourselves." 
     "I agree," Baltar said. "If we can find a Brown Dwarf close enough to the target, it's a hop, skip, and jump there and back." 
      "Quite so, Baltar," Adama said. "We should be able to find a suitable location near the target. Even if it's a gas cloud or some other feature." 
     "None of those in the alien data," Wilker reported. 
      "Then it's got to be either a system useless to them," Xaviar commented. "Or a Brown Dwarf." 
      "Either way, we'll find a location," Tigh said. 
      Adama nodded. "Have a list of candidates ready by this time tomorrow." 
     "Yes, Commander." 
     "By your command," Moray said. 
     Adama then looked around the table, and at the monitor. "Now, the reconnaissance mission to the target system. Captain Byrne, Commander Allen, I've given careful consideration in this decision. Commander, since the Adelaide performed well in your recent mission, the job is yours. Get in, get the information we need, and get out. No combat, however. Is that understood? Unless you're actually attacked?" 
     Allen nodded. "It is, Commander. I'll get what we need for the operation: imagery of the camp, readings on their orbital facilities, signals intelligence, the works." 
     "Good, Commander," Adama replied. "How soon can the Adelaide leave on the mission?" 
     "Sir, we can go right away." 
     "Very well," Adama said. "Captain Byrne, I need you and your people here to help with initial planning. But the Constellation will go on the actual mission itself." 
     "Understood, Commander," Byrne nodded. "And Ced? Good luck." 
     "Thanks, Kev," Allen replied. "Commander? Do I bring Adelaide back here, or is there another rendezvous point?" 
      "Good question, Commander," Xaviar said. "We've been lucky so far, and not had additional visitors." 
      "I agree, Sire," Adama nodded. "Doctor, any systems close to this one with no habitable worlds-other than the one that was previously checked out?" 
     Nodding, Wilker called up a display. "There's two, Commander," the scientist reported.
     "One's an Orange main sequence star, four-point seven light-yahrens distant, well within patrol range. Five planets, none with life forms detectable at this distance], and no mines or other fortifications noted." 
    "That's a possible rendezvous," Adama indicated. "And the other?" 
     "It's a binary star system, with a pair of red dwarf stars," Wilker said as he called up the second display. "Distance is five-point nine light-yahrens distant. Four planets around the first, two around the second. No life forms, according to the data." 
     "Apollo, Orion," Adama said. "As soon as we're in effective patrol range of both, get patrols out to those systems." 
     "Yes, Commander," Apollo replied. 
     "By your command," Orion said. 
     Adama then turned to Allen's face on the monitor. "You don't need to leave right away, Commander Allen. Once we have a definite rendezvous point, I'll release you for that mission." 
    "Understood, Commander," Allen replied. 
     Any other questions?" Adama asked. "All right, then. We'll take the Fleet in the general direction of those two planets, the rendezvous will be chosen, and once Allen returns, we'll do our final planning." He turned to Tigh and Baltar. "The alert status remains the same, and we'll continue the double patrols en route." 
     "Yes, Commander," Tigh replied, while Baltar nodded. 
     "Any other questions or comments?" Heads shook no. "Then let's get to it." 

     
      The next day, as Wilker would've been the only one presenting information, Adama decided to forgo the situation brief. It took two days at normal Fleet speed to reach a position where both new systems could be covered by patrols, and once they reached that point, the patrols were sent on their way. It would take the first patrol only twelve centars to make the trip, but the second was gone for the better part of a day. When the patrols returned, it was time to debrief. Only this time, Byrne, Wagner, and Clemens were aboard Galactica, as Adama had also decided to do some preliminary strike planning. And so, apart from Baltar and Moray, who were on the BaseShip, and Allen, who was preparing to leave on the recon mission, everyone gathered in the Ward Room. While they were waiting for Adama and Tigh to arrive, Byrne, Wagner, and Clemens were talking with Sire Pelias and Siress Tinia. 
     "I'm still in shock," Clemens said. "It's...it's like a movie! Just looking out the shuttle window and seeing the Galactica...."
      Even for those of us from the Colonies, the first sight of a Battlestar is something you never forget," Pelias said. "Captain, I have some news that may interest you." 
     "Oh? Lay it on me, Sire," Byrne said. 
     "Lay it on?" And Byrne explained. 
     "Ah, I see. Well, then. Commander Adama and I, and we've also discussed this with Sire Xaviar," Pelias said, nodding at Xaviar as he came over, "and Siress Tinia. Anyway, I've offered to represent the interests of all of those from Earth in the Fleet, once we get them aboard and billeted, until some other arrangements can be made."
      Byrne knew the young Sire had done just that for himself and his daughter, Ced, and Wagner, as well as Ced''s wife. Now, it was Petty Officer Clemens, and soon, there'd be fifty or so others. He'd done the same for the Zohrloch refugees as well. "Thanks, Sire. Glad to hear that." 
      Pelias nodded. "And how are you adjusting, Petty Officer?" 
     "So far, so good, uh, Sire? Jen's helped me become computer literate to a degree, and Lauren's taught me how to use a pad. If I can adapt, my friends can, when we get them out." 
     "A commendable attitude," Xaviar said. 
    " Thank you," Clemens said. "How many are in that abductee colony again?" 
     "Several thousand," Byrne said. "All either people brought from Earth, or their children." 
      "Maybe grandchildren, by now," Wagner added. "Just as long as the Ke'zar leave them alone, I won't complain if they blew the aliens' homeworld back to the Stone Age." 
     "You have reason to feel that way, Sergeant," Tinia said. 
     "And when Captain Byrne told us about the battle with the second ship?" Clemens asked. "After he told us the Galactica and the BaseShip blew him to pieces, I told him that you could kill all of them you want, as far as I'm concerned." 
    Tinia nodded sympathetically. "Again, you have good reason for feeling that way." 
    "One other thing, uh, Siress. Apparently I've got those...people from your IFB to worry about." 
     "What?" 
    "There's been a leak, Tinia," Pelias said. "If Commander Adama has found the source, he hasn't informed anyone else. Yet." 
     "If Serena had stayed on at her old job..." Xavair started, then stopped as Commander Adama, Tigh, Croft, Apollo, Boomer, and Wilker came into the Ward Room, and the usual faces of Baltar and Moray from the BaseShip, and Allen from Adelaide on monitors, came up. "I see it's time to get started." 
    "I see we're all here," Adama said. "If you'll take your seats, we can begin." Heads nodded, and people took their seats around the conference table. "First, Colonel Tigh and Command Centurion Moray have been working to select possible locations to conceal the Fleet while the mission is underway." He gestured to both. "And what have you found?" 
      "So far, we've gone through the alien data, and found three possible systems that could be used to conceal the Fleet. Two of them are within seven light-yahrens of the target, and a third is closer, roughly four or so," Tigh reported. 
     "Any life forms in those systems?" Pelias asked. 
     "None, Sire," Moray added. "The alien data does indicate habitable worlds, but none that are currently inhabited, either by the aliens, or by indigenous intelligent life forms. Two of these systems are listed as potential colony worlds." 
    "They're obviously planning for the long term," Byrne commented. 
     "Apparently so, Captain," Adama said. "And the third system?" 
     "Commander," Tigh punched up a display. "This is from the alien data. It's one of those roughly seven light-yahrens from the target. There's a world in the life zone, but it's uninhabitable." 
     "Why is that, Colonel?" Lydia asked. 
      "It seems, Siress, that the inhabitants fought a nuclear war not too long before the aliens arrived in this sector. Large areas of the world are still radioactive, and strewn with rubble. This isn't like Ki," Tigh reported. 
      Adama nodded. "Any Brown Dwarves?" 
     "Not yet, Commander," Moray said. "We may have to conduct some scans of our own." 
    "We'll do so, prior to the mission launching," Adama decided. "Good work, Colonel," he said, nodding to Tigh, who nodded. "And you as well, Command Centurion." 
    "By your command," Moray nodded. 
     "Very good," Adama said. He gestured to Apollo. "And the patrols to the two systems?" 
      The Galactica's Strike Leader nodded to Orion, who was on another monitor. "I took one patrol with Orion to the Orange star. It took a while to get there, but when we arrived....nothing to interest anyone." 
     "Orion?" 
     "That is so, Commander," Apollo's Cylon counterpart said. "Three gas giants, a rock ball very close to its parent star, and an icy desert world. Bacterial life could exist on that particular world, but nothing more than that." 
    "Any sign of our alien friends?" Pelias asked. 
     "No, Sire. No marker buoys, nothing like that," Apollo replied. "We scanned the desert world and
several moons of the gas giants for usable resources, but nothing much came up. Even the water ice on the icy desert's not extractable for our needs. If you were using an old-style fusion power plant and needed to crack the water for fuel, yes, but otherwise..."
     Adama understood, and so did the others. "Very good, Apollo, and Orion, the same to you. Pass that on to your pilots." 
   "By your command," Orion said, nodding. 
    "Captain Boomer?" 
     Red Squadron's leader stood. "Commander, I had Starbuck with me, and Flight Leader Plavius. We checked out the binary star system, with the two Red Dwarf stars, and we did find a habitable world, barely." 
    "Could you define that more precisely?" Tigh asked. 
     "Sir, except for a few lakes, and a small shallow ocean, it's almost entirely desert," Boomer replied. "It may have been friendlier once, but there's a huge impact site. Maybe a comet or an asteroid. Bam!At the equator, the temperature's hot enough that you could fry an egg on a rock." 
    "Any usable resources there?" asked Xaviar.
    "Iron, Copper, and some other basic minerals," Plavius responded." Mostly on some of the asteroids in the system, though there are also mineral deposits on the desert world." 
    "Commander, I would recommend this system," Boomer said. "We can get some usable material here, while we're waiting for the recon mission to return." 
    "Apollo?" Adama asked his son. 
     "I concur, Commander." Apollo replied. 
     "Anyone disagree?" Adama asked, and no one said a word. "Very good, then. Commander Allen? This system is the rendezvous point." 
    "Understood, Commander," Allen replied. "We can leave right after the briefing's finished." 
     "Remember your rules of engagement: No combat unless you're attacked." 
     "Commander, with that cloak, they'll never know we were there," Allen replied confidently. 
     "Good luck, Ced," Byrne said. "And be careful." 
     "Will do," Allen replied. "And Petty Officer? When this recon's finished, we're one big step closer to getting your friends out of that camp." 
     "Thank you, Sir," Clemens said, trying to stifle a tear. Now she really knew this wasn't a dream, and that in a few days, her friends would be out of that hellhole and on their way home.
     Adama looked around the table, and there were smiles all around. "Colonel, set the Fleet course for that system. We'll hold outside the heliopause and scan the system more thoroughly with both capital ships." 
    "Understood, Commander," Tigh nodded. 
     The Commander gestured to Doctor Wilker. "Doctor?" 
      Wilker stood to give his presentation. "Commander, everyone. We've gotten quite a bit of additional information on the war. Now, this information, if it was in the Colonies, would not have been classified, but their Official History has been." 
     "That's what this is?" Baltar asked, incredulous. "Even the Colonial Official History of the War was something you could find in any bookstore in the Colonies." 
   "They still consider themselves to be at war, and so..." Xaviar reminded everyone. "And so, Doctor?" 
    "The Ke'zar have some excellent tacticians, the aliens note," Wilker replied. "One of their commanders, though he was outnumbered in one engagement, simply concentrated his forces on one portion of the aliens' battle force, defeated it, then moved on to the next group. This particular commander is viewed as being, and I will quote 'Exceptionally dangerous and threatening. It is vital that he be eliminated if at all possible.' There's no indication that they succeeded in doing so."
     "Anything on the Ke'zar's own ships?" Apollo asked. 
     "Not enough, Captain," Wilker responded. Then he called up a display. "This ship, though, is one the aliens view as very dangerous. In the hands of a skilled commander, they feel, it can take on one of their battle groups-and win-alone." 
     "Do they say what it's called?" Asked Tigh. 
     "It's called a 'Hive Ship,' Colonel," Wilker said. The display showed a ship very similar to the ships that the derelict had engaged. Two long, thin triangles, one inverted, with a central base in between, which presumably had docking bays, was how the ship appeared head-on, but from the side, the triangles were enormous. "Not much data on the ships themselves in this volume, unfortunately." 
    "That would be in their intelligence database?" Pelias asked. 
     "Yes, Sire. We've found references to technical reports on the Ke'zar's ships, and expect to have such information available in the coming days." 
     "And their fighters?" Apollo wanted to know. 
     "Here," Wilker said, punching up another display. "These, here match the images from the derelict's cameras. The elongated Y-shaped craft are described here as fighters. Those looking more like an arrowhead are their strike craft." 
    Adama nodded. "Anything on their performance, armament, and so on, Doctor?" 
   "That, too, Commander, is in their intelligence database, and we'll have that for you as soon as we can. The Ke'zar had a new class of strike craft coming into service, just as the war began, however, it was rarely encountered. It's called a bomber, but even the aliens have very little information," replied Wilker. 
     "Probably because very few of those who had encounters lived to tell of the experience," Byrne said. "Dead men tell no tales." 
     "Quite, Captain," Adama said. "Anything else, Doctor?" 
     "Yes, sir," Wilker said. "Captain, you asked about the prison planet earlier?" Seeing Byrne nod, Wilker continued. "The Ke'zar took the planet, and that was one of the last systems to fall before the aliens began their....'Sanctuary Program.,' it seems." 
     "Anything on the lab facility or the abductee colony?" Wagner asked, speaking for the first time. 
     "Not much," admitted Wilker. "Though they do lament the loss of the lab, and the....'science' that went on there, and they say the 'Te'reans' were not sad to see their masters leave." 
     "Good news, at least," Allen said. "The Ke'zar probably destroyed the lab, and the abductees were freed, if they're lamenting losing the colony. Sounds like bloody Doctor Mengele." 
    "We'll know for sure, though, if that place is on the way to Earth," Byrne said. "But I'd be thanking them for wrecking that lab. Considering what we do know went on there.....
     Adama gave another sympathetic nod. "So would I, Captain." He turned to Wilker "Is that it for now?" 
    "It is, Commander. We'll have more information, especially on the Ke'zar's ships, though if the aliens are admitting their information is sketchy at best..."
    "Some information is better than none at all," Tinia said. "It's something, at least." 
     "Agreed, Siress," Adama said. "Thank you, Doctor." 
     "Commander,," Wilker said as he sat down. 
     "Now, Commander Allen, I'm now releasing Adelaide for your mission. How long to get there and back?" 
     Allen thought for a centon, then said, "My navigator says two days to get there, Commander. A day for the recon, then two days back." 
      "Very well. Good luck, and may the Lords be with you." 
      "Thanks, Commander, and we'll be back as soon as we can. Then we can put the hurt on these bastards," Allen said. 
    "Good luck, Ced." 
    "Thanks, Kev." Then Allen signed off, as the Adelaide prepped to leave on her mission. 
     "Now, then," Adama said. "Apollo, Orion, I want patrols to thoroughly check the planets around both stars. Boomer's patrol wasn't able to do so given the time and fuel they had, so before the Fleet goes into this system, it's best to make sure there's nothing threatening." 
     "Understood, Commander," Apollo said. "We'll be out there." 
     "By your Command," Orion added. 
     "The alert status of the Fleet will be maintained," Adama nodded to Tigh and Baltar, "And Colonel? Once the system is declared clear, have the Mineral Ship do a survey of some of the larger asteroids. See if there's anything usable in the time available." 
     "Yes, Commander," the Exec responded. 
     "We'll do some preliminary planning for the mission," Adama went on, nodding at Byrne, Wagner, and Clemens, "And finalize that when Commander Allen returns. Then we'll do this." 
    "And these...people will be taught a lesson they won't soon forget," Baltar said. 
     Though it pained several at the table to do so, heads nodded at that. Of the alien races they'd encountered since fleeing the Colonies, this was one that everyone felt fully deserved whatever came to them. For they knew that, like the Cylons, this race considered all Humans, not just those from Earth, as a race to be conquered and subjugated. Only this time, it was because of a religious imperative, and a desire to resurrect a long-dead empire. 
     "The Lords wiling, that will be the case," Xaviar said. 
     "Exactly, Sire," Adama said. "Is there anything else for now?" Heads shook no, "Very well, we're adjourned for now." 
    "Won't be long now, sir," Wagner said to Captain Byrne. 
     "Right about that, Sergeant," Byrne said. "If Croft wants you on the mission, are you going?" 
     "Yes, Sir," Wagner said. "With your permission of course. And you know why." 
      "Scarface," Clemens whispered softly. "You want to take him alive if you can." 
     "Not just that," Wagner said. "But think about this: the prisoners are still going to be afraid of someone dropping in on them in the middle of the night. If they see me, speaking English, and wearing a uniform that's, well...somewhat familiar, they'll be more willing to listen, and cooperate with the raiding party." 
     "Just like with me," Clemens nodded. 
     "And you'll be there, in the landing bay to greet them when they get off the shuttle," Byrne said. "You can't go, unlike the Sergeant, but this is the next best thing, You'll do more for them this way, and helping Croft's boys with their pre-mission planning, than you would if you went along." 
    Clemens smiled. "I know, sir. It's just...well....it doesn't change the way I feel." 
    Commander Adama came up. "An understandable feeling, Petty Officer," he said. "Captain, a moment in private, please." 
     Byrne nodded. "You two wait for me outside." 
     After Wagner and Clemens had left, Adama pulled out a paper from a folder. "We've identified the source of the leak about the Petty Officer's presence in the Fleet. Hummer found it, when he was asked to help with an unrelated investigation." He handed Byrne a paper. 
     Byrne took it, and read it. Not once, but twice. Then he looked at Adama. "Well, I'll be...son of a bitch! She...she's been playing me for a fool." 
      "Captain," Adama said. "I hate to say I told you so, but.."
      "Go ahead. Say it. I have it coming. Bloody hell, if there's one thing I hate, it's having someone on my crew being used in games like this!" Byrne's voice rose. "That no good, conniving, self-righteous Bitch!" He calmed down. "Commander, I should've listened to you, and Apollo, too. And everyone else who tried to warn me about her. I just didn't see the dark side to her. Until now." He snarled. "Great job, Kevin. Thinking with your crotch!"
    "Well, that's the past. What about the future?" 
     "Simple, Commander. I won't have a thing to do with her unless I have no other choice. And her..charms? They could be registered as deadly weapons," Byrne commented. 
      Adama suppressed a laugh. "Captain, a lot of men over the yahrens have fallen for her, so I am told. They'd say the same thing. For what it's worth, the last man to do so was Antipas." 
     Byrne nodded. "And look where he wound up. Not to worry, Commander. There's a saying on Earth: 'Don't call me, I'll call you.' As far as I'm concerned, it's over. Done, finished." 
     "Best way, Captain," Adama offered a handshake. "Put it behind you, and look ahead." 
      Byrne shook Adama's hand. "That it is, Commander." 


      That evening, as the Fleet headed towards the binary system, another meeting took place in the Ward Room, only this time, the rescue mission was the sole object of discussion. Apart from Sires Xaviar and Pelias, those attending were entirely military. 
     "Gentlemen, and ladies," Adama said, "We are about to plan an operation that hasn't been done in some time: hitting a slave camp to free those held there. Now the Boron-Din affair comes close, but this time, we will be up against an enemy who, despite being outgunned, will fight. As Petty Officer Clemens indicated previously, they consider all Humans, as well as all other sentient species, to be inferior to them, and once it's known they are facing Humans, or Human allies," he nodded towards Baltar and Moray, on the monitor, then went on, "they will fight until they're destroyed."
     "Any thought that a show of force might be enough is pretty naive, I'd say," Apollo commented. "They seem to be always spoiling for a fight."
      "Indeed, Captain," Xavair said. "Even if it becomes obvious to them that they're losing, they won't back down."
     "Just like Imperial Japan in our Second World War," Byrne said. "The closer they got to ultimate defeat, the more fanatical the resistance." 
     "Exactly, Sire, Captain," Adama agreed. "Now, Major Croft has been going over the camp layout and you do have a tentative plan to hit them?" 
     Croft nodded. "I do, Commander. We've considered several options, including either parachuting into the compound or simply landing an assault shuttle inside the actual prison compound itself. Though it gives us surprise and shock, it gives the show away almost immediately. Thanks to Doctor Wilker finding that topographical map, there's couple of clearings a couple of kilometrons from the camp itself. We land there, and the Marx X has enough ECM to choke their systems, so getting in won't be a problem. Once we're on the ground, it's only a centar's march to the target." 
     "How do you get inside the compound itself?" Tigh asked. 
      "Easy, Colonel," the SF leader replied. "We cut the wire. Thanks to Petty Officer Clemens' information, we know that the fence is a wire fence, and it doesn't have any kind of shock devices, nor is it alarm rigged. And we've figured out the blind spots for the guard towers."
     "And you get in, and get your teams to the barracks, the punishment area, the Commandant's office, and the guard barracks swiftly and silently," Xavair finished. 
     "Right on that, Sire," Croft said. "Then we take them down simultaneously. We do it fast and hard, and they won't have much time to react. Once the prisoners are secured, we call for extraction." 
     Adama nodded. "Fire support?" 
    "Commander, I never thought I'd say this, but we may need the BaseShip for that. That military garrison north of the compound? I''ll wager any amount of money they'd get a reaction force organized. That base needs to be blown off the map." 
     "Baltar? You can get the BaseShip deeper into the planet's gravity well than the Galactica could," Adama asked. 
     Aboard the BaseShip, Baltar was surprised, but he also knew Adama was right. "Moray?" 
    "We can do it, Commander," Moray replied. "Our ventral weapons can provide the necessary supporting fire, while our dorsal mounts can still engage targets in orbit." 
   "Then that's how we'll have it," Adama decided. "Would you want to have Starbuck aboard in his liaison duties?" 
    Baltar nodded. "It would be useful, Adama. Yes, please do." 
    "Very well," Adama said. "Boomer, have Starbuck report to the BaseShip prior to leaving on the mission. I know he'd rather be in his Viper for this one, though." 
    "Yes, Commander," Boomer replied. 
     "One other thing, Commander," Croft said. "I know I said this before, but I'd like to reiterate it. We have to go at night. The guards likely don't have any night-vision devices, and if we go in between a shift change, the guards are likely to be bored and inattentive. Maybe even a few are asleep on duty. In a situation like this, complacency will be their biggest obstacle. And our ally." 
     "Petty Officer?" Adama asked. "You know that place better than anyone here."
     "Commander, that would be best. All of the prisoners are in their barracks, the off-duty guards are in their barracks, and the guard officers are in their quarters," Clemens nodded. "I never saw any of the guards with night-vision gear, but that doesn't mean they don't have it." 
     Croft was slightly chastened, but replied. "Then we'll assume they have that equipment." He made a note on his data pad.
     "One other thing, Commander," Clemens added. "Though nobody's ever escaped from there, some prisoners practiced it. They noticed the guards were very attentive inside the compound, but weren't watching the outside. And I heard from a couple of friends who had...well....I guess you could call them boyfriends from the Men's barracks sneak over to ours after dark. They said the guards in the towers were often nodding off in the middle of their shift." 
     Croft turned to Adama. "Complacency, Commander. The SF team's friend. We can take advantage of that."  
     "Of course, Major. If they have become sloppy, it's something they won't live to regret," Adama said. 
     "What about fighter support?" Tigh asked. 
      "A single squadron from both Galactica and the BaseShip should be enough," Apollo said, calling up a holodisplay of the planet, and the target area. "The fighters go in ahead of the BaseShip, and deal with the surface-to-air defenses, and make sure any of their atmospheric fighters are neutralized. I'll take Blue Squadron in first. We've got some upgrades to our missiles thanks to the Zykonian techs, that can home in on scanner emissions. If Commander Allen comes back with the signals intelligence needed, we can program the missiles to home in on those scanners, then we go in and strafe the gun and missile sites themselves." 
    "And the Raiders?" Baltar asked. 
    "They go for the spaceport and the shipyard," Apollo nodded to Orion. "Just make sure nothing gets off the ground, and wreck the shipyard." 
    "We can do it, Commander," Orion said. "And our mission after those targets are neutralized?" 
      Adama looked at both strike leaders. "That's to be determined depending on the situation. If, for example, there are ground threats that the BaseShip's guns can't handle, that's your tasking. Or we may need more fighters in orbit." Then he gestured to both. "This one's definite, though: you'll be escorting the shuttles that bring the prisoners and the raiding party back to Galactica." 
    Apollo nodded. "Yes, Father." 
   "By your command," Orion said. 
    Tigh nodded at the holographic display of the target planet. "And in orbit?" 
    "Taking out the orbital docks is a must," Byrne said. "Like the both of us said earlier," he motioned to Sergeant Wagner, "destroying those does any non-spacefaring races in the sector a favor. The aliens won't be imposing their brand of 'truth, justice, and religion' on them anytime soon." 
     Moray asked, "The orbital stations are obvious targets as well." 
    "That goes without saying, Command Centurion," Adama said. "The two in orbit around the target are clearly military in nature. Not to mention the one in orbit around one of the planets of the companion star. It's also military." 
    Byrne spoke up. "Constellation can take that out, Commander." 
   "The rest of the fighters?" Xaviar wondered aloud. 
   "They cover the big ships," Apollo said. "Or strike any alien ships that the big ships can't engage for whatever reason." 
    "Not to mention intercepting any alien fighters," Orion added.
    "They do have starfighters, but no sign yet their ships can carry them," Tigh said. 
     "I'll have Wilker double-check the alien files," Adama decided. "Just to make sure." 
     "Commander, there's something else," Byrne said. 
     "Captain?" 
     "What if the colony's government asks for a cease-fire?" 
     "If they ask for one," Adama said. "It will be granted. Then we recall the fighters, extract the ground force and the prisoners, and we depart," He looked around the table and at the monitors. "Remember, we're not at war with these people, and this operation is more like a 'punitive expedition' against pirates. No civilian areas are to be targeted, is that understood?" Heads nodded around the table. "Baltar?" 
   "You make that very plain, Adama," Baltar replied. 
    "We'll convene again after Commander Allen returns from his reconnaissance mission. Is there anything else?" He saw Wagner nod. "Sergeant?" 
     "I'll say this right now: Major," she nodded at Croft. "I'm volunteering for the raid." And she saw him nod in the affirmative, and Byrne did as well.
      "Why is that, Sergeant?" Pelias asked. 
      "Sire, two reasons. First, the prisoners are likely going to be confused, afraid, especially if someone they don't know drops in at night. They may think they're just exchanging captors. If they see me, in a uniform that's somewhat familiar to them, speaking English, and having that American flag patch on my uniform..."
     "They're more likely to calm down, be cooperative, and willing to listen," Croft finished. "Excellent."
     "Sir, that's one reason," Wagner said. "There's one other." 
     "Scarface," Apollo said, turning to her. "You want him alive." 
     "If possible. Otherwise, it's to ID the body. I'd love to kill him myself, I won't deny that, but as Captain Byrne said, 'it's hard to interrogate a corpse.'" 
     "That it is," Adama said. "If Major Croft has no objections?" 
     "None at all, Commander. And having her come along is a plus, for the reasons she indicated," the SF leader replied. "And I've seen her in action during the boarding. She's more than welcome." 
     "Good, Major," Adama nodded. He saw Clemens raise her hand. "Petty Officer?" 
     "Sir, I know I can't go along, though I did offer my help to the Sergeant as a guide," Clemens said. "And I know the Sergeant said this earlier, but I'd like to be there, in the landing bay, when they arrive. For all they know, I'm dead. If they see me, here, alive and well, and waiting for them..."
     "They'll feel safe," Pelias said. "Doctor Salik's already said it's a good idea, Commander."
      "Very good. Anything...?"
      "One idea, sir," said Byrne. "I know the technology is new to you, and hasn't figured in a lot of military doctrine so far, but the transport system. I suggest that each man in the operation be fitted or issued a tracker. If, in the fog of war, someone should get separated from the rest, wounded, captured, or even killed, we can find them, and make sure that we don't leave anyone behind." He looked around the table. Croft seemed impressed. 
     "Sir?"
     "Then that's how we shall have it," Adama decided. "Anything else?" Heads shook no at that. "Very well, we'll finalize the mission plan when Commander Allen returns, determine a location to conceal the Fleet, then we'll carry out the operation. That's it for now." 


     At 0846 the next day, the Fleet arrived in the binary system, which the translation of the alien charts designated it as BV-14. After a through scan by both capital ships, and several fighter patrols, the Fleet moved in and took position near the desert world. While fighter patrols continued to sweep the surrounding space, the Mineral Ship moved in to survey several small asteroids, while shuttles went down to the desert world to collect commodities that were needed for the Electronics Ship and the repair or manufacture of new electronics: silica, or pure sand, and a number of rare elements. 
    Meanwhile, Adelaide was approaching the Chak system, to perform her reconnaissance mission....
    This time, Commander Allen was on the bridge as his ship approached the system's heliopause. "Ship's status?" 
     "We are at Condition Two, Captain," the XO, Vickers, replied. "All systems are at full readiness, with the cloaking system at your command." 
      The Captain nodded. "You have the gaps in their early-warning system?" Allen asked the Navigator.
     "Yes, sir," Kalya, the Nav, replied. "Plotted and on the board, sir."
     "Very well, Nav." Allen then turned to the Helmsman. "Take us in, Helm." 
     The Helmsman nodded, "Yes, sir," and the ship entered the system. 
     Adelaide slipped into the system, relying on her superior sensors to warn of any threats, and on two occasions, the helmsman had to take an evasive course around alien ships that were leaving the system. Fortunately, their departure vector was headed inward, towards the Capital or another inhabited system, rather than outward, and where the Colonial Fleet had been, or was headed. After four Centars, the ship was getting close to the target planet, and the sensor operator began to pick up alien sensor beams. 
     "Picking up alien active sensors beams, Captain," Sensors replied."We're well at the edge of their detection range, and I don't think they've picked us up." 
     Allen looked at his Exec, who nodded. "I'd say it's time, Captain."
    "It is that," Allen agreed. "Engage the cloak, and go to passive systems only." With a shimmer on the viewscreen, the Adelaide's cloak was engaged, and she slipped deeper into the system. "You recording everything?" Allen asked the Sensor Officer. 
     "Never stopped," she replied. "They're going to love this." 
     "We have to get it back to the Fleet first," the gunnery officer reminded her. 
     "Save it for later, people! Allen reminded everyone. "Let's get into position above the camp and get the imagery Croft's team needs." 
    The Helmsman nodded, and a few centons later, the ship was in a stationary orbit above the target area, and the sensors began to do their work. 
   "Getting hi-res images of the target areas," Sensors said. "One and a half microns per pixel, sir.'
   "The camp?" Allen asked. 
   "Yes, sir. Also the spaceport and shipyard, as well as the military garrison." 
     Nodding, Allen turned to the navigator. "Have you computed the estimated local time?" 
     Kayla responded. "Yes, sir! It's about 1400 at the slave barracks, by our reckoning. The alien data shows this planet has a day about twenty-two centars long." 
     "Good. Croft's guys will need that when they go in. Knowing him, he'll want to go at night," said Allen. "Have a departure course ready in case we need to get out of here ASAP." 
     "Already done, sir. I'll keep it updated." Nav replied. 
     "Good." Allen went over to the Sensor Officer's station. "You're also getting the electronic intelligence they want?" 
     "Yes, Sir," Sensors nodded. She called up a menu on one of her screens. "I've got their traffic control scans, and these ones from the surface are from the gun and missile batteries. They're also being very chatty on their com lines." 
     "Communications, you recording those?" 
    "Yes, Sir," the communications officer said.
    "Very well," the Captain nodded. "Run them through crypto. How long to get the imagery?" 
     "We'll be over the site in ten centons, Captain," she said. "We're lucky. Surface weather's good, and we'll have a lot to work with back at the Fleet." 
    "Sing out when you're finished with the images," Allen ordered. 
     "Sir." Ten centons later, the sensor officer called out. "Imagery collection complete." 
     "Got everything?" Allen asked. 
      "All listed targets checked off," she replied. "And additional scans of the terrain for thirty kilometrons around, in all directions, sir. Just in case."
     "Good thinking. All right, then," Allen nodded. "Let's get into position where we can watch and listen for a while. Get a count of the ships in orbit, and the ones in the stardocks. Tonnage, armament, and potential tactical capabilities." 
     Adelaide moved to a position halfway between Ne'Chak and its moon. There, all of her passive sensors were trained on the orbital complexes, as well as a mine site and a construction site on the moon proper. 
     "Wonder what that's for?" the Exec wondered. 
     "No information in the alien data," Sensors replied. 
      "It's probably a base of some kind," Allen deduced. "I'll bet that the Commander will want somebody to make that base go away." 
    "Make them start all over from scratch?" asked Vickers.
    "That's the idea, Mister," Allen smiled. "Couldn't happen to a nicer bunch." 
     The Exec smiled. "I like the sound of that, Captain," 
     "So do I," Allen said. "How many ships in orbit, Sensors?" 
     "Eight, sir," Sensors replied. "Seven of the same class as the derelict, the eighth is the same as the one we captured. They all appear the same in terms of armaments, as well." 
    The Exec nodded. "Probably the force based here." 
   "I'll go along with that," Allen said. "Stardocks?" 
   "Eight," the sensor officer said. "Matches the alien data. All occupied, and the ships all appear to be either under construction or repair." 
     "Very well." 
     "Sir, two ships similar to the captured one are just dropping out of lightspeed, coming towards the planet," Sensors called. "They're moving into orbit." 
    "They must have come in from the other side," the Navigator guessed. 
     "Can you plot their approach vector?" Allen asked. 
    "No, Sir," Sensors said. "They're just moving into orbit. If we weren't cloaked..."
    "We could've used our active sensors, and spotted them a lot earlier," Allen finished. "What are they doing?" 
    "Moving close to the other ships," she said. "Now they've powered down their main engines. Being maneuvered  into dock." 
    "Paying a port call," Allen said. "That's what I'd say they're up to." 
    "Looks like it as well, Captain," the Exec agreed. "They've got a berthing area in high orbit." 
    "One ship leaving the planet's surface. No human life forms detected." Sensors called. 
    "One ship?" Allen asked. 
    "Yes, Sir," Sensors replied. "He's heading on a vector.." She typed in a command on her keyboard. "For the Capital world." 
    "Must be a freighter," Gunnery said. 
    "Confirmed," Sensors said. "He's only got eight life forms aboard. All alien." 
     Adelaide's sensors tracked the ship as it headed out, until it jumped into lightspeed, and was out of range. They also tracked a small shuttle leaving one of the new arrivals to the spaceport on Ne'Chak. 
     When that shuttle arrived, an alien officer came out, resplendent in his uniform of a Senior Admiral of the Risik Star Force. He strode to the small reception party waiting to greet him. "Governor,"
    "Admiral Beshik," the Governor of Ne'Chak nodded. "We are honored by your presence. May I present Commander..."
    "I know the base commander,' Beshik replied. "Commander Felanvia. Speeches are for victory celebrations. I'm here after some grueling maneuvers, and not only do I need a rest, but my crews do as well." 
    "I see," the Governor said, bowing and scraping like some court lackey to the Supreme Leader, the Admiral thought. "We will, of course, make all the necessary arrangements." 
    "Thank you, Governor," Beshik said. 
     "Do you wish to pay a courtesy call on Commandant Tsernavia?" 
     "There are a number of things I'd like to do while I'm here, Governor." He turned to face the man directly. "Seeing him or the camp he administers is not one of them." A pity the Governor was such a nobody, for disposing of him would be so easy, the Admiral thought. But then, nobodies have their uses, he reminded himself. 
    "Of course, sir," The Governor nodded. "One of the Special Guest Suites is at your disposal." 
    "Thank you, Governor." 

     Aboard Adelaide, Allen and his crew noticed activity tapering off as local dusk came. "Looks like they're settling into their night routine." 
    "Yes, Sir," Sensors said. "Chatter's dropped off a lot. Lights coming up in the city." 
     The Exec consulted a pad. "Captain, we've got almost everything we've came for." 
    "What haven't we gotten yet?" Allen asked. 
     "The station near the companion star." 
     "Helm," Allen nodded. "Set a course for that target. Once we've scanned it, we're out of here." 
     Two centars later, Adelaide's sensors took detailed readings on the station, then she slipped out of the system. 
     "We're clear of the heliopause, Captain," the Navigator announced. 
      "Very well," Allen said. "Secure from Condition Two, and decloak. Plot our course to the rendezvous point." 
     "Yes, Sir," Vickers replied, while the Navigator did her work. 
     "Course plotted and on the board, sir," Kayla said. 
     "Right, then," Allen turned to the Helmsman. "Max light-speed back to the Fleet. Let's get out of here."
     "Yes, sir!" the man grinned. 


     With the Adelaide on her recon mission, those planning the operation could only wait until her return. Aboard Constellation, Jessica was talking with Jen and Lauren, in their cabin. 
     "Is it always this hard? The waiting, I mean.," she asked. 
     "Now you know sort of what Captain Byrne goes through when he sends Vipers out on a patrol," Lauren said. 
     "He's always like that," Jen said. "It's the hardest part of the job, he's told me."
     "So close, and yet so far away," Jessica nodded. "Too bad Commander Allen couldn't get a message through to my friends in the camp." She looked at her two cabin mates. "Hang on a little longer. Someone's coming to take you home." 
     "They'll know soon enough," Lauren replied. "And those who put them through hell will be getting some for themselves." 
     I know,' Jessica said softly. "But it's not just Scarface. There's one other I really want dead." 
    "Who?" Jen asked. 
    "The chief guard. He's not an officer, but he'd be like a Chief Petty Officer, or a  First Sergeant in the Army, I think. If someone gets punished, and the commandant's not doing it himself, this guy does it. This guy likes to tie you to a post in the compound, strip you, then he beats you all over with a wooden club. Then he flogs you with a whip, and then you're left there all night," Jessica said, tears welling in her eye. "Happened to me twice."
     Lauren, then Jen, gave her a hug. "Won't be long, then this bastard gets what's coming to him." Lauren said. 
     "Hope they kill him," Jen nodded. 
     "So do I," Jessica smiled. "What if they take him-and the Commandant-alive? Then there's a trial, right?" 
     "Yeah, and you, and some of your friends, testify," Lauren replied. "There's not much the defense can do, other than the 'obeying orders' line, or they might argue that their religion says that anyone from Earth-or Te'rea, as they call it, is spiritually, morally, and technologically inferior, and they can do whatever they want to them." She looked at her two cabin mates. "That's going nowhere fast." 
      "And they get tossed into cells on the Prison Barge, or they get marooned," Jen finished. "Nice choice: either spend the rest of your life in a tiny cell, or take your chances on a planet where everything living might try to kill you." 
     "I'd take that one," Jessica said. "It'd be over quick." 
     "It would be," Lauren agreed. "Jessica...is there anybody you're looking forward to seeing?" 
    "Other than everybody in general?" When both Lauren and Jen nodded, she said, "Denise," Jessica's face lit up. "I kind of got her into this, and I want to get her out." 
    "Not your fault," Jen said. "You had no way to know what was going to happen when you two got in your car." 
    "I know," Jessica nodded. "But still...and there's Ron, from upstate New York-somewhere near Lake Champlain." 
     "Oh...a boyfriend?" Jen asked, grinning.
     "Not quite, but we'd get together on those rare days off, maybe once a month, and find a storeroom and, well, you know," Jessica let out a grin. "Nothing more than that, but it was helping him, because he was pretty homesick, and just having me spend some time with him helped him stay sane."
     Jen looked at Lauren. "Why take somebody from there?" 
    "There's a SAC base at Plattsburgh," Lauren replied. "Chances are, they just took him at random. And he's not military. He worked with his dad at some resort. Fishing. Boat rentals. That sort of thing. But they just grabbed folks who happened to be close by." 
     "Like with you and the missile base."
     "Yeah. And I bet Scarface wasn't happy when he found out his subject was a civilian," Lauren spat. 
     "He wasn't, Ron said. And Ron never got over breaking. That, and the labor, was wearing him down." Jessica said.
     "Just a few more days, and they'll all be out," Lauren nodded. "Enough shop talk. The Captain's giving me tomorrow off. Let's have a 'girls day in', you know, a movie, or two, or three; some girl talk, food from the crew mess, and just plain kick back and relax." 
      "Good idea," Jen said. "And you still owe me the one those Il Fadim crazies interrupted." 
     "I'd like that," Jessica smiled. "A lot, because when Commander Allen comes back, we'll all be busy."
     "That we will," Lauren agreed. "That we will. And our friends won't ever forget this port call." 
     "None of us will."


     The next morning, with Adelaide still not due back for at least another day, Adama went to the Bridge after a meeting with Sire Solon. He informed Solon that it was very possible that Captain Byrne might want to file charges against the alien Captain for keeping Petty Officer Clemens as his slave, and the Commander handed his Chief Opposer a folder with the necessary information, so that Solon would be ready in case Byrne decided to file those charges. In addition, Solon received the information that he would need to file charges against Tsernavia, aka "Scarface" now that his name was known, and that an amended indictment against him for not just Sergeant Wagner's abduction, as well as his actions against not only Petty Officer Clemens, but the camp's inhabitants as a whole, could be prepared. That done, the Commander went to the Bridge, where, as usual, he found his Exec waiting. "Good Morning, Tigh," 
     "Good Morning, Commander," the Exec replied. "Morning sitrep ready, sir." 
     "Very good, Colonel," Adama said as he logged in. "What do you have?" 
      "First, the Mineral Ship has completed its surveys. Several asteroids have been checked out, and two are being mined. One's almost pure iron, and the other has large traces of copper and zinc," Tigh noted. "The teams which went down to the desert world came back with the sand they need, as well as the rare elements on their list."
     "Excellent," Adama replied. "Our mineral stocks should be topped up. With this material, plus what we found at that wrecked mine site, we should be good for a while." 
     "Yes, Commander," Tigh said. "Patrols continue to show the area clear, and no transmissions indicated on any alien frequencies." 
     "Let's hope it stays that way," Adama replied as Omega gave him a pad and stylus. A routine bridge status report. "The last thing we need is another ship coming in, and taking him out might cause our friends to start raising their alert level. Chances are, they're starting to look for the two ships we've encountered." 
     Tigh nodded. "That would seem prudent. In their place, I would start sending a ship or two out on a search mission." 
    "So would I, Colonel," Adama said. He nodded to Omega, handing back the pad. "Thank you, Omega.'
    "Commander."
     "What else?" Adama asked. 
     "We, that is Command Centurion Moray and myself, have had both the BaseShip and the Galactica conduct some astronomical scans, searching for any Brown Dwarves near the target system. So far, nothing," reported Tigh. 
      Adama gave a nod as he took another pad, this one the day roster, from Athena. "Tigh, we may be too far away. Both ships' equipment for that isn't as good as the space telescopes that institutions like the Sagatarian Astronomical College or the Caprican Space Science Foundation operated. More geared towards military targets, than astrophysical phenomena." 
     "I understand, Commander," Tigh said. "We may have to wait until we're closer to the target." 
     "Have a couple of systems for alternative choices, just in case we can't find a Brown Dwarf," Adama ordered. "Thank you, Athena," he said as he handed the pad back to his daughter. 
     "Father." 
     "Yes, Commander," Tigh said. "Adelaide is due back tomorrow, and we'll have the intelligence to finalize our strike plan." 
      "Remember, recon missions rarely go according to plan. He may be a day, even two, late," Adama reminded his Exec.
      Tigh nodded. "He may have had some juicy intelligence, or he had to lay low." 
    "Or both," Adama said. "What if he stumbled across a Fleet exercise, say?" 
     The Exec grinned. "In that case, the windfall would be worth the delay." 
     "It would," agreed the Commander. "Anything from Doctor Wilker?" 
     "Some more information on Ke'zar ships, and the aliens'," reported Tigh. 
     "We'll wait until Commander Allen returns, have a briefing, then we'll finalize the plan for the operation. Tell him to keep digging in the meantime." 
     "Yes, Commander," Tigh said. "That's it for now." 
     "Thank you, Colonel."


     Aboard Constellation, since Jen had no classes-it being the Colonial equivalent of a weekend, and Lauren having the day off, they and Jessica decided to sleep in, and only get up when they wanted to. Jen got up first, and seeing her two cabin mates still asleep, she got dressed, and went to the Crew Mess for breakfast. While she was gone, both Lauren and Jessica got up, and both decided to take their time in the shower. Lauren let Jessica go first, and the former hostage took all the time she wanted. As a captive, she had been allowed to bathe only when the rest of the crew had, and sometimes not at all. This was still a heavenly treat. When she came out, it was Lauren's turn. "Feeling refreshed?" Lauren asked. 
   "I do, and I feel better each day," Jessica said as she took off her towel to get dressed. 
     Lauren smiled as she got in the shower. "That's great! Now you're having a fun day." 
     Jessica smiled as she got dressed. Then the cabin door opened, and Jen was there. "Jen!" She squealed, grabbing her towel as she was still....topless.
     "Like I said to Lauren, once, you don't need to hide anything from me, Roomie." Jen grinned. "Besides, is that the way to greet someone bearing food?" She put two plates down on the table. 
     In the shower, Lauren smiled. Jen had done the same to her, once. It won't be long until she's one of us, Lauren thought. And the others, too. Then she got out. Wearing her towel, she went back into the cabin. "She did that to me the first time we tried this." 
    "Oh," Jessica said. "You two were having one of these days, and those crazies had their own ideas." 
     "Righto," Jen said. "She and Pop had to go over to Galactica. They didn't come back until early the next morning, then they reeled in the councilmens' escape shuttle." 
     Jessica nodded. Lauren had told her the story. 
    "And", Lauren said as she got dressed, "they didn't like it that two of the people in the Fleet they hated the most were the ones who brought them in. Me, and Mr. Malik. We led the boarding party." 
     "Like you said, they got what they deserved. Hope those Lizards you said were on that planet...," said Jessica. 
     "Yeah?" 
     "Hope those Lizards didn't get indigestion. It doesn't sound like they're going to survive there for long."
     Hearing that, both Lauren and Jen laughed. "You know," Jen said. "That's the first time since you've come aboard you've cracked a joke." 
      Jessica smiled. "It is, isn't it?" 
     "Come on," Lauren said. "Let's eat, then we'll watch a movie, or two, or three." 
     "You guys have Ghost?" asked Jessica.

     In Wilker's lab, the work of decrypting the alien files was still ongoing. Files from the derelict were being compared with what had been newly found, and though some documents were obviously copies of what had been previously discovered, the material about the war with the Ke'zar was obviously new. 
     At his terminal, Hummer was going through some classified material-classified from the aliens' viewpoint-on the Ke'zar Navy. Illustrations, photographs, scanner screen-captures, diagrams of Ke'zar ships, and alien estimates of the Ke'zar ships' capabilities were coming up. This "Hive Ship" the tech thought, sure looked formidable. Plasma cannons of varying power, missile or torpedo launchers, and mass driver cannon made the ship a deadly opponent. To the aliens, anyway. Then he checked the aliens' own ships, as he'd been asked to double-check and see if any of the alien ships carried fighters. Only one appeared to do so. "Doc," he asked Wilker. "Could you come over here for a centon?"
     The Chief Scientist came over. "What have you got?" 
     "This request from the Commander," the tech replied. "This is the only alien ship active that can launch and recover fighters. That we've found so far, anyway. They call it a strike cruiser." 
     "They're going to want to see this when we brief next," Wilker said. "Anything else?" 
     "They had a full-blown carrier, but it says here none were used on 'Project Sanctuary.'" Hummer nodded, pointing to a translated article. "Want to bet the big ships all stayed behind?" 
     "I'd go along with that," said Wilker. " Make sense they'd try their damnedest to hold these Ke'zar off as long as they could. Anything else?" 
     "More stuff on these Ke'zar 'Hive Ships.' These things look like they'd eat the aliens' own ships for breakfast." 
     "From what we've found in their after-action material?" Wilker asked. "They do. What about this strike cruiser?" 
     "It carries two dozen starfighters, and..." Hummer called up the fighter description. "They're a delta-wing configuration, with two lasers, and external ordnance hard points. It's comparable to the old fighter from Proteus that Lieutenant Croad still flies, only his is a lot more capable." 
    "Good work," Wilker said, as the technical specs of the alien fighter scrolled up alongside the holo. While not as advanced as theirs, or the Cylons', it was nonetheless not to be sneezed at. "Print all that out, and keep digging for anything on ships. Theirs or the Ke'zar's." 
     Hummer nodded. "Gotcha, Doc." 


     The next day, things were pretty much the same, with the asteroid mining going well, and Wilker's efforts were ongoing. The space surrounding the system was still clear, thanks to the patrols both the Galactica and the Base Ship were mounting, while Croft's team was fully involved in rehearsing plans to raid the slave camp, and Viper pilots were going over all of the available information on the targets they would likely strike in the operation. 
     On Galactica's Bridge, Commander Adama had just returned from a nice lunch with Athena. Apollo was still out on a patrol, though it was nice to have a nice father-daughter lunch, and also have the added joy of his grandchildren there, as Athena brought the twins. Now, things were running normally, or as normal as they could be, with the Fleet in what one could easily define as enemy territory, when Athena called. "Commander, approaching ship on scanners." 
     Adama and Tigh came over to her station. "Can you identify?" Adama asked. 
    "Stand by..." she replied as she typed in the command. It didn't take long for the result to come through. "It's the Adelaide. Her transponder's coming through." 
    "Commander Allen's on schedule," Tigh observed. 
    "Omega," Adama called to the Bridge Officer. "Get me Commander Allen, please." 
     "He's still five centons from audio range, sir."
     "Then as soon as he's in range, Omega."
     "Yes, Commander." 
      Five centons and four microns later, Allen's face appeared on a monitor. "Commander. Mission accomplished." 
    "Very good, Commander," Adama replied. "Any problems?" 
     "None at all, sir," Allen nodded. "They didn't even know we were there." 
     "Excellent. The intelligence we need?" 
     "All collection requirements met or exceeded," Allen said. "I'll forward the data as soon as possible to Wilker's people, and they can get to work." 
    "Well done," Adama replied. "We'll be waiting for the data." 
     "We'll be dropping out of wa...lightspeed in twelve centons. In visual range of the Fleet in ten Centons, Commander. I'll bring the data discs personally." 
    "Thank you, Commander. I'll be waiting for your report." 
     "I'll be there, Commander. Adelaide out." Then the monitor went blank. 
     "It'll take a day or two to fully analyze his data, Commander," Tigh pointed out. 
     "At least, Tigh, no question about that. Then we can have a briefing, and finalize the mission plan." Adama said. "Once the current mining's finished, we'll move the Fleet." 
     "Where to, Commander?" 
     "That system that was affected by a nuclear war," Adama decided. "Useless to the aliens, but well within strike range. If necessary, that's where we'll conceal the Fleet. Unless we can find a Brown Dwarf." 
      Tigh nodded. "We'll keep looking, sir." 
     "Good. Let me know when Commander Allen arrives. I'll be in the Ward Room." 
     "Yes, Sir." 


    After Allen had come aboard, and gone over the mission with Adama, the Commander realized something. Though Wilker's people did excellent work in analyzing the alien data, they weren't trained intelligence personnel and the last thing he wanted-and the Fleet needed-was for the scientist to make a mistake, one that would likely cost lives. Adama needed a for-real intelligence section once again. There had to be people in the Fleet who had served in Fleet Intelligence prior to the Holocaust, or had some connections to it, and it was time that those talents were brought back into service, he decided. Adama came out of the Ward Room and right straight to the Bridge. "Tigh." 
      "Commander?" The Exec asked. 
     "Program a computer search for all personnel in the Fleet, whether on active duty or not, who have served in Fleet Intelligence, or in the Colonial Intelligence Bureau. Officer or enlisted, it doesn't matter. Even civilian." 
     "You want to reestablish the Fleet Intelligence Unit?" 
      Adama nodded. "This is good a time as any, my friend. We've been without for far too long. Get the intelligence spaces up and ready, and once we have a Fleet Intelligence Unit again, they'll have access to all of our database." 
     Tigh understood. "Right away, Commander." 
     
     
      While that was going on, Wilker's people were starting to go over the data that Allen had brought with him. Several data discs full of information were being examined, and the imagery of the target camp was occupying Hummer's attention. Well, now...."Doc?" 
     "Hummer?" Wilker asked as he came over to Hummer's work station. "What have you got?" 
     "Imagery of the camp. I've got Petty Officer Clemens' hand-drawn map for a comparison. So far, everything matches." 
     Wilker looked at the imagery. "Good, clear images. What was the local time when they were taken?" 
   "The notes say 1400 local," Hummer replied. "Looks like some of the crops are being harvested. And take a look here..." He took the image to full magnification. "Looks like some of the prisoners." 
     Wilker looked at the image. Though tiny, it was clear that people were working in the fields, using crude instruments, and that figures on the edge of the fields were guarding those who were working. "How many?" 
      "About twenty or thirty," Hummer said after a count. "The rest may be inside, you know, kitchen detail, carpenter's shop, livery stables, that sort of thing." 
     "Good work," Wilker said. "Where's the closest defenses? The Viper pilots will want to know that." 
     "Right here," the tech replied, calling up another image. "The nearest missile battery is just over a kilometron northwest of the camp, and a gun battery five hundred metrons north of the missile battery. There's what looks like a gun battery under construction just to the east of the camp, but nothing's been installed yet." 
      Wilker took another look. "You sure it's a gun battery?" 
     "The signature's the same. Five sites for gun mounts, not four as the missile batteries are," Hummer pointed out. 
     "All right. Have you checked the spaceport and the shipyard?" 
     "Next on the list, Doc," Hummer said. "Anything to look for in particular?" 
     "Their atmospheric fighters, and any big ships that may be based planetside," the scientist said after checking the priority list on his pad. "Not to mention fuel or munitions storage." 
    "Will do and will find," the tech replied. Clearly, he was enjoying the work.
      Wilker nodded, then gave his tech a reminder. "Remember, if you get too tired, have Komma take over for you, and find your bunk." 
     "I know," Hummer said. "Thanks for reminding me." 


     Aboard Constellation, the "dinner and a movie" had just wrapped, and the party was talking about the movie, The Sum of All Fears. "So that was the last book of his that Tom Clancy allowed to become a movie?" Sergeant Wagner asked. 
     "It was," Byrne admitted. "He didn't like what the screen writers did, changing a lot of the story around, and he said he'd never allow a movie based on his books to be produced unless he had final approval." 
    "Still," Mr. Malik observed, "a frightening premise. Nuclear terrorism, and attempting to provoke a nuclear war." 
     "Be glad it's just been in the movies," Wagner replied. "We did train for the real thing when I was on active duty, and just the thought of terrorists with a nuclear weapon gives intelligence officers in many countries sleepless nights." 
     Byrne nodded agreement. "Especially after 9-11. I've told you and Mr. Dante about that?" Both officers nodded. Then the telecom buzzed, and Byrne went over to answer it. "Yes?" 
     "Captain," it was Ruis from the Bridge. "There's a call for you from the Galactica. Commander Adama on the line, Sir." 
     "Feed it here," Byrne ordered. The monitor then showed Commander Adama. "Commander?" 
     "Captain," Adama nodded. "I see you're having one of your 'movie nights.'" 
     "Yes, sir," Byrne replied. "Kind of a shipboard tradition, now."
     "And I see Petty Officer Clemens there in the background. That's good, because she has a right to know. Commander Allen's returned." 
     "Did he..."
     "All collection requirements met or exceeded, he reports," Adama said. "Wilker's people have that information now, and they're going over everything. Everything we hoped for. It'll take a day, more likely two, to analyze all of his data. He also reports they didn't even know he was there. The cloak worked perfectly." 
     "That's good to know, Commander. How soon-" 
     "When Wilker's ready, we'll brief, then have a final meeting to finalize the strike plan. In about five days, the Lords willing, we'll be ready. And can launch anytime after that." 
     "Thank you, Sir," Byrne replied. He turned to where Jen was giving Clemens a hug. "I'll let her know." 
     "All right, Captain. You enjoy the rest of the evening." 
     "We will, sir." Byrne nodded. After Adama signed off, Byrne went over to Clemens. "Five days, the Commander said." 
     "Then we go?" Jessica asked. 
     "That's what he said. Commander Allen just returned, and they're going over the data he collected. That'll take a couple days. Then we finalize the mission plan. Still need to find a place to park this fleet while we go off and do this, but he said five days and we'll be ready." 
     "Five days..." Jessica said, her voice trailed off. "I'm going to hug Denise and probably never let go. For a while, anyway." 
     "Your friend," Dante observed. 
      She nodded. "Yes, sir. I kind of got her into this, even though it's not my fault. We had no way of knowing what was going to happen when we got into the car." 
     "No," Byrne said. "It never is. The alien scumbags. It's their fault. Not yours." 
     "I know, Sir," Jessica replied. "Lauren, get ready, because everyone's going to want to hug you when you tell them they're going home." 
     "Oh boy," Lauren nodded. "And they probably won't want to let go of me." 
     "And Ron," Jessica said. She explained his story. "Sir, he's the only one that I know of who was likely to just give up. He was pretty homesick, the labor was wearing him down, and he'd been....punished a few times. Usually just because the guards felt like it. Bastards" 
     "Hopefully," Byrne said, "he's managed to hang on. Just a few more days." 


     Two days later, it was another morning as Commander Adama, after his usual light breakfast, went to the Galactica's Bridge. After he logged in, he found Colonel Tigh waiting for him, as usual. "Good morning, Colonel. What do you have this morning?" 
     "Good morning, Commander. I have the morning sitrep ready." The Exec replied. 
     "Let's have it," Adama said as he took a pad from Omega and scanned it. Nothing out of the ordinary in that shipboard status report. 
     "Yes, Commander," Tigh said. "First, the mining operation is completed. One of the asteroids was broken down almost completely, and what was left was given a slight nudge into one of the system's gas giants. Along with the rest of the mining sludge." 
     "Excellent, Colonel," Adama nodded as he signed the pad with a stylus. "This wasn't a planned stop, but we've gotten some resources in the bargain." He returned the pad to Omega. "Thank you, Omega," and the Bridge Officer nodded. 
     "Yes, Sir." Tigh replied. "Both the Base Ship and the Galactica have continued to scan for Brown Dwarves. So far, nothing close to the target system." 
     Adama nodded again. "Keep looking, Tigh," he said as Athena handed him another pad. He scanned it, then signed it. "Thank you, Athena." 
    "Father," 
      "Commander," the Exec said. "Doctor Wilker's almost finished evaluating Commander Allen's data. His people have been held up by fatigue, and it's taking longer as a result." 
     "Now you know why I want that Fleet Intelligence Unit reconstituted," the Commander pointed out. "Any progress in the search?" 
     "We've found a few people who are former intelligence personnel. Most are former military, but a few who are on active duty have some intelligence training, even if they didn't serve in an intelligence unit proper."
     "Any officers?" Adama wanted to know. 
     "Two," Tigh replied. "Both are ex-military, but both are willing to return to active duty if so called." 
     "Cut the orders reactivating them, Colonel," Adama said. "I'll sign them, then they can get the unit reestablished as soon as possible. The same goes for the civilians who are former enlisted personnel." 
     "Yes, sir."
     "Patrol reports?" 
     "They show the area clear," reported Tigh. "And no transmissions of any kind on alien frequencies." 
     "That won't last forever," Adama noted. "We'll try to avoid contact, so that the element of surprise can be preserved."
    "That may not be possible, as we discussed earlier." 
     Adama nodded as he went to the plot board. "I know, Tigh. But we'll still try and avoid combat if at all possible. Unless we have no other choice, as happened the second time. All right: anything else?" 
      "Major Croft reports he's finalizing his raid plan, and is rehearsing the operation. He's confident that the camp can be secured,with the prisoners and raiding party extracted, all in twenty-five Centons from the start of the attack." 
     "Very good, Tigh. Tell him to keep it up. Is that it?"
     "It is for now, Commander," Tigh reported. 
     "Thank you, Colonel."

    That afternoon, the principals gathered again, either in the Galactica's Ward Room or via com link, for another briefing. Everyone was anxious to hear Allen's report on his reconnaissance mission to Ne'Chak, and an update from Wilker as to the data from that mission was also on the agenda. 
      Aboard Constellation, Byrne, Wagner,and Clemens were there by com link. "So Commander Allen's ship has a cloaking system? That's right out of Star Trek!" Clemens asked. 
     "We've got one too," Byrne smiled. "Just haven't had a chance to use it. All thanks to the late and unlamented previous owner." 
     The Navy Petty Officer shook her head in amazement. "Just like I said to Lauren: Science fiction becomes science fact." 
     "That it is," Byrne agreed. 
     
     Then Commander Adama came into the Ward Room. "Now that everyone's present, we can get started. First, Commander Allen will brief us on his mission, then we'll hear from Doctor Wilker, and Colonel Tigh. Then it will be the turn of Major Croft, and then we'll open it up for general discussion." Adama turned to Allen, who had come over to Galactica-it would make his presentation a lot easier if he was actually there. "Commander, the floor is yours."
     "Thank you, Sir," Allen said. A holographic display came up. "Ladies, gentlemen, here's the result of Adelaide's mission to the Chak system, and Ne'Chak proper. We followed this course, here.." he said, outlining the Adelaide's path, and once we picked up their scanner emissions, we engaged our cloak." 
     "The cloak's performance?" Wilker asked. 
     "No problems or issues," Allen replied. He went on. "We got there in orbit about 1400 local time, and got high-resolution imagery of the camp, the town, and everything within a thirty-kilometron radius. The spaceport, shipyard, military garrison, the defenses, everything." 
     "And the orbital installations?" Tigh asked. 
     "Coming to that now. Right....here, in high orbit, there's the two stations, one of which is for the shipyard, and the other station is their Fleet HQ. There's also eight stardocks, which matches the data from the captured ship, and all eight were occupied when we were there." 
     "Who was there?" Byrne asked. 
     "Good question," Apollo noted. 
     "Seven of the ships there looked as if they were under construction. The eighth was likely in for a yard period," Allen reported. "No orbital defenses of any kind, I might add, which also matches what we know." 
     "That's a relief," Baltar said. "But not entirely unexpected." 
     "It is that," Adama agreed. "Please continue, Commander."
     "Yes, sir. Here," Allen pointed to a spot in high orbit. "Separate from the orbital shipyard, is what appears to be their Fleet Berthing Area. Ten ships: six similar to the derelict we found, and two of the same class as the captured ship. And two more of those arrived while we were there." 
     Byrne heard that and took note. "Where'd they come from, Ced?" 
    "No idea, but they were pretty chatty on their com lines." 
     Xaviar nodded. "Maybe our translation effort will bear fruit in that regard." 
    "We also found a base under construction on the single moon, purpose as yet unknown," Allen continued. "Once they settled into their night routine, we had all of our major requirements met or exceeded. Except for the station orbiting the Red Dwarf companion star. We scanned that, then slipped out of the system."
     "And there was no sign they knew of your presence?" Pelias asked. 
     Allen nodded. "Not that we could determine, Sire. The decrypts of their communications might tell something, but there was no reaction at all. I don't think they knew we were even there."
     "Something to keep in mind," Adama said. "Good work, Commander, and well done. Pass that to your crew." 
    "Yes, sir, and thank you." Allen replied as he sat down. 
    "Colonel?" Adama motioned to Tigh. 
     "Our patrols continue to show the area clear, and there have been no transmissions of any kind detected on the aliens' frequencies. Or any frequencies, for that matter," Tigh reported. "And the Mining Ship has exploited a couple of very rich asteroids, along with the desert world being a source of needed silica and rare minerals, puts our mineral supply at the maximum." 
     "Excellent, Colonel," Adama said. "Our supply should be good for the time being?" 
     "Chief Mining Engineer Clement is sure of it, Commander."
     "Very good, Colonel," said Tinia.
     "Thank you, Siress," Tigh nodded. 
     "And the search for Brown Dwarves?" Xaviar asked. 
     Tigh looked at Moray. "Command Centurion Moray and I have been using both capital ships' scanners to search for any. So far, nothing. Though the equipment on both ships is very sophisticated, they're geared more towards military applications than to astronomy or astrophysics," Tigh said. "We may be out of range."
     Adama nodded. "Keep trying, both of you. Even if we don't find any, at least you gave it your best effort." 
     'Yes, Commander. We'll keep at it." 
     "By your command," Moray replied. 
     "All right," Adama said. "Doctor Wilker?" 
     "Commander, everyone," the chief scientist said as he stood to give his presentation. "We're not finished with evaluating the data that Commander Allen returned, but here's what we have so far." 
He punched up another display. "First, the camp. Here's Petty Officer Clemens' hand-drawn map, and an image taken of the target." Both images came up side-by-side, then Wilker blended them together. 
     "How-" Clemens started to say. 
     "You get used to it," Wagner said. 
     "They match completely," Wilker said, continuing on.
     "Vindication," Byrne said to Clemens. "Nothing's changed." 
     "Yes, Sir," she said, wiping a tear from her eye. "Now we can think about dismantling that place." 
     "Everything's the same?" Boomer asked. 
     "It is, Captain," Wilker responded. "The prisoners' barracks, punishment area, the guards' and officers' quarters, work areas, all of it, are a match. And in this one image here..." He called up another image, this one an enlargement of a field where row crops were planted. "You can see here," the scientist pointed, "there's about twenty to thirty prisoners working in this field, and a dozen or so guards around the perimeter." 
     "Not much longer, girl," Lauren said, clasping Jessica's hand. 
     "I know," Jessica replied, wiping another tear away. 
     "What about the surface defenses?" Apollo asked. 
     "Coming to that now," Wilker said. Another set of images came up. "The gun and missile batteries match the alien data for the most part, but there's a new gun battery under construction, here, about a kilometron and a half east of the camp, near the seashore." 
     "Under construction?" Boomer asked. 
     "Yes, and though there's heavy equipment there, there's no sign of the generator, power cables, and so on. They may have just started work here." 
     "Petty Officer?" Adama asked. "Would they use your fellow prisoners on this kind of project?" 
     "Commander, I don't think so. Outside details were mainly the dirty jobs: Street-sweeping, garbage collection, picking up trash from along the roads, that sort of thing," Clemens responded. "The more humiliating, the better, from their point of view." 
     "So if they're using prison labor, they'd be using their own prisoners-the ones from that other camp?" Xaviar asked. 
     "Maybe, Sire. I just don't know." 
    "Would you trust prison labor on a defense project?" Byrne asked. "I sure wouldn't. Especially if they're any kind of dissidents." 
     "It may be that their 'atonement' for their crimes against the state would be to work on projects of this sort," Sarah, aka Nizaka, pointed out. "Not unusual in societies such as this." 
     "An interesting question," Adama mused. "Doctor, do you have more?" 
     "Yes, Commander, we do." Wilker called up another pair of images. "First, the spaceport. Two dozen of their atmospheric fighters, here, parked on what appears to be the military side of the facility. Adjacent to that is their fuel storage, and some bunkers, here, that would be their munitions storage area." 
     "We'll need those," Baltar said. "That's the target for Orion's squadron, if you'll recall."
    "You'll get them," Wilker nodded. "The shipyard, here, has several ships in varying stages of construction, but none of them are approaching flight-ready status." 
     "Any of the big ships based planetside?" Tigh asked. 
    "None on the imagery," Wilker reported. "One other priority target, here, the military garrison. It's been overbuilt, it appears. There's enough equipment there for a brigade-sized force, though it's got the buildings and facilities for a division." 
      "Commander," Croft said. "That place has to be taken out, no matter what. They can get a reaction force organized, and that will cause us trouble." 
     "Baltar, Moray," Adama said, gesturing to the two on the monitor. "As we discussed earlier: that is the Base Ship's primary target in the ground phase." 
     "Understood, Adama," Baltar replied. "We'll take it out."
     "It will be done," Moray added. 
     "Very good, both of you." Adama nodded. "Anything else, Doctor?" 
     "Not at this time, Sir," Wilker replied. "We're only halfway in decrypting the communications intercepts, and we're working on finalizing the three-dimensional model of the camp for Croft's men." 
     "When can you have the intercepts?"
     "Most of that should be by tomorrow, Commander. The rest, the following day." 
     "Hold all of that until you've got it all completed and evaluated," Adama ordered. 
     "Commander," Wilker said. "Other than that, I'm finished for now."
     "Thank you, Doctor," Adama nodded. He gestured to his SF leader.  "Major Croft?" 
     Commander, I'll keep this short. We're in the middle of rehearsing the raid, in one of the Agro Domes, and right now, the team is confident we can get this done, from first shots fired to extraction, in twenty-five Centons. Thirty at the most, but we're confident of twenty-five." 
     "Excellent, Major," Pelias said. "You have everything you need?" 
     "We do, Sire," Croft replied. "All we need now is the training time, and we can get this done in that amount of time."
     "Good, Major." Adama said. "And your final rehearsal?" 
     "Once that three-dimensional model's ready, then we'll go ahead. I'd like Petty Officer Clemens here for that, Captain," Croft told Byrne. 
     "Just say when, Major, and we'll have her over there," Byrne replied. 
     Xavair asked, "Major, do you plan on taking any of the guards or officers alive?" 
    "That's up to them," Croft replied. "Sire, the only one we really want is the one code-named Scarface. That's one reason Sergeant Wagner is coming along. If we can take him, fine. If not..."
     "If not, Sire," Wagner said. "That's his problem." 
     "And I imagine you'd like to personally make it his problem," Xavair said. 
     "I'm not hiding that, Sire," she said. "But, as Captain Byrne's said more than once. It is hard to interrogate a corpse." 
     "And why go on the mission?" Lydia asked, speaking for the first time. 
     "To reduce the confusion among the prisoners, Siress," Wagner said. "If the prisoners see me, in a uniform that's relatively familiar to them, with the flag of my country on it, a symbol they're all familiar with, by the way, and I'm speaking to them in a familiar language, they'll be much more cooperative and willing to listen. I'd even bet any amount of money that they'd listen to me more than any of the Major's men. And when they get to the Galactica, and they see someone they saw removed from the camp and never seen again, who they may even believe to be dead..."
     "When they see Petty Officer Clemens with Salik and his medical staff, they'll realize that they're in safe hands, and are on their way home," Xavair finished. 
     "That's about it, Sire," Wagner said. 
     "Do you understand, Siress?" Adama asked his Vice-President. 
     Lydia nodded reluctantly. "I do, Commander."
    I doubt you do, Byrne thought to himself. Bitch! 
   "Is that all for now, Major?" Adama asked his SF leader. 
   "It is for now, Sir," Croft said. 
    Adama nodded. "Thank you, Major. Now, is there anything else for discussion?" He saw Byrne raise a hand. "Captain Byrne?" 
     "Commander, obviously we're running a little behind, but where do we park the Fleet while the Galactica, the BaseShip, and Constellation are off on this operation?" 
     "Good question," Apollo said. 
     "As soon as our patrols return, we'll head for a system that the aliens have given up as useless to them. Their own data indicates that the inhabitants fought a nuclear war amongst themselves just after the aliens arrived in this sector. There's no reason for them to return there, so it's useless to anyone else, but perfect for our purposes," Adama said. "And we're close enough to the target world that we should find a Brown Dwarf or two, if any can be found. Otherwise, the background radiation might serve to hide us, at least for a while." 
     "It will probably be our best opportunity," Moray said. 
    "Does that answer your question, Captain?" Adama asked, and Byrne nodded. 
    "Fleet alert status?" Tigh asked. 
    "Maintain the current alert level," Adama decided after a centon's thought. "Apollo, Orion, maintain the current patrol level."
     "Yes, Commander," Apollo said. 
     "By your command," Orion said. 
     Adama turned to Tigh. "Colonel, as soon as the patrols that are out return, set a course for that system." 
     "Yes, Commander." 
     "Does anyone have anything else to add?" Heads shook no. "Very well, we're adjourned for now." 


     The next day, as the Fleet headed to the nuclear-devastated system, and still a day away from it being within effective patrol range, Byrne, Wagner, and Clemens shuttled over to the Galactica, and a meeting with Major Croft and the SF Team. As they went from Alpha Bay to the SF Area, it reinforced to Clemens just how large the Battlestar was. "My God...this ship is just so, well, big! Uh, sir." 
     "You get used to it, Petty Officer," Byrne said. "Every time we've been aboard, it's still amazing. Isn't that right, Sergeant?" 
      Wagner smiled. "That it is, sir. And just think, when we get home, there's going to be calls to build some more of these. Even if it takes a while, and a whole lot of black budget."
     "There is that," Byrne admitted. "After the fight between the Navy and the Air Force over who operates them." 
      "Well, Sir," Wagner said. "In this case, I defer to the Navy." 
     "At least there's one Air Force person out there with some common sense," Byrne joked, and he and Clemens laughed. "Obviously, there is hope for you."
     "You know, Jessica?" Wagner asked. 
     "What?" Clemens replied. 
      "You're getting back to normal. Laughing along with the Captain." 
       She smiled. "I guess you could say that." 
     Once in the SF Area, the hatch opened, and the familiar sound of gunfire could be heard. This time, Croft's men were rehearsing the close-quarters combat portion of the operation. They found the commando Major going over some things with Team Two. "Major!"
     Croft turned, and saw Captain Byrne and the other two coming towards him. "Captain Byrne," he said, saluting. "And Sergeant Wagner and Petty Officer Clemens, I see. Glad you all could come."
    "Glad we could be here, Major," Byrne said, shaking his hand.
    "Good, because we're going over the close-quarters-battle portion of the raid," Croft pointed to the troopers practicing their room-clearing skills. 
     "Where do you want me, Major?" Wagner asked. 
      "Team One, with me," Croft said. "We'll be hitting the prison compound proper. Team Two takes the Guards' barracks, Team three the punishment area and the officer's quarters, and Team Four has overwatch and reserve, just in case."
    "Major, if you don't mind my saying this?" Clemens asked. 
    "Go ahead, Petty Officer," Croft said. 
     She looked at him with a deadly serious look in her eyes. "Sir, the team hitting the guards' barracks; they can kill all of them they want, as far as I'm concerned."
     Croft knew by that look that she meant it. But he asked Byrne and Wagner anyway. "She means it?" 
    "She does," Byrne said, and Wagner nodded her reply. 
     "Don't blame you at all," Croft told Clemens, and she nodded. 
     "Can we see the assault plan?" Byrne asked,
     "No problem, Captain, come into my office. The SF leader escorted them in, then called up the plan on his computer terminal, and the plan was also a holographic display. "Any questions?"
    "Can you show the blind spots for the guard towers?" Wagner asked, and Byrne looked at her. 
     "Wait a centon...here you go," Croft said. "Sorry, I'm no Hummer." 
     "Nobody is," Byrne nodded. "He's in a class all by himself." 
     "He is that," Wagner agreed. Then she studied the assault plan, and the blind spots. "Major, something just occurred to me." 
     "Sergeant?" Croft asked. 
     "All it'll take to blow this is one guard spotting us as we cut the wire. One guard in a tower, or on roving patrol." 
     "What are you getting at, Sergeant?" Croft wanted to know. 
     "They need to be taken out, silently and at a distance, before the wire is cut," Wagner said. "Either a silenced rifle, or, get this: a crossbow." 
      "A crossbow?!" Croft exclaimed "That's ancient compared to these." He held up the MP-5 he was taking on the raid. 
      "My boyfriend, before he was a State Trooper and SWAT Team member, was in Army Special Forces. What we call The Green Berets. He said it's still the most effective means to take out a sentry, swiftly and silently-if you don't have a suppressed weapon available." 
    "Vietnam veteran, Sergeant?" Bryne asked. 
      She shook her head no. "Too young, Sir. But his instructors were all Vietnam vets, with multiple tours."
     "Not enough time," Croft said. "Can't get a crossbow ready in time, so a suppressed rifle." 
      "It'll have to be," Wagner said. "The Mark-17 has the range." 
      "But no threaded barrel for a suppressor," Byrne pointed out. "How do you get around that, Sergeant?" 
     Though he knew the answer, he wanted to see how fast she came to a decision. Sooner or later, it would be time for promotion....
     Wagner looked at her CO, then at Croft. "Sir, how fast can the machinists work?" 
    "Fast enough, if I light a fire under them," Croft said. He knew right away what she had in mind. "A threaded barrel for the Mark-17s, and some sound suppressors to go with them," he decided. 
    "Good thinking, Sergeant," Byrne nodded. "Major, who are your best shots, and I'm talking marksmen." 
     Croft thought for a centon. "Keller and Varro," he replied. As soon as they get the suppressors, they spend time on the range. I'll let Corbis know." He then got in touch with the Galactica's machinists, and explained to them what they needed. "They can have what we need in two days." 
    "That takes care of that," Byrne said. 
     "It does," Croft said. "Come on, and let's have the guys ask the Petty Officer whatever they need to." He then took the three to where the Teams were gathered, taking a break before going through it again. "People, you know Captain Byrne and Sergeant Wagner, and here's our source of intel on the target, Petty Officer Jessica Clemens." 
     Jessica stepped forward, and the troopers all gave her a round of applause. "Why are they clapping?" 
      "Because you came out of there with your mind and body intact, pretty much," Wagner said. "In their experience, few prisoners do."
   "That you did," Byrne said. "Now, gentlemen, any questions about the camp?" 
     Castor raised his hand. "Petty Officer, how many guards inside the compound at night?"
    "Four to eight," Clemens replied. "One outside each barracks door, the rest are roving." 
    "We can take them out, no problem," Tellus said. He patted a suppressed MP-5. 
     Dorado raised his hand. "What kind of weapons are the guards using?" 
    "They've got some kind of rifle," Jessica said. "One where the trigger is in front of the magazine." 
     "Bullpup?" Wagner asked. 
     "That's the term?" Jessica asked. When Wagner nodded, she went on, "Yeah, that's it."
     Croft went and got a weapon from the armory. It had belonged to one of those Wagner killed during the boarding action. "Like this?" 
     She nodded. "Yes, sir. That's exactly it." 
     Croft nodded, then handed it to her. "Consider it a souvenir." 
    "Thank you, sir," Clemens said. 
     "Any others? Croft asked. "Yeah, Corbis?" 
     "How will the other prisoners react when we storm the barracks?" Sergeant Corbis asked. 
     "Major, if you don't mind," Wagner said, and she saw him nod approval. "I'll take that one. They're likely going to be frightened, confused, and suspicious. Six or seven yahrens in that place would do that to anyone. Which is why I'm coming with you guys." 
     Castor knew at once. "You're speaking a language they're familiar with, you've got that Earth uniform of yours, and you have your country's flag patch on the shoulder. They'll listen to you, and follow your instructions." 
     "You got it," Wagner said. "There's one other reason." She called up a holographic display. "This man: the Commandant, who we've code-named Scarface. He's the one who tortured me, Petty Officer Clemens, everyone in that camp, and who knows how many others? He's not only utterly loyal to their plot to dominate Earth, but he's also a sadist. He likes interrogating, to put it nicely. He likes inflicting pain and suffering. He likes to make it long and slow, for the sheer pleasure of it." The holo-image zoomed in. "Remember that face. I either want him alive or want to ID the body." 
    "Major?" Tellus asked. "Do we try and take him alive?" 
     "If you can, but don't go out of your way to do it," Croft said. "If we can, fine. If not..."
     "That's his problem," Wagner said. 
     "And you'd love it very much to make it his problem," Castor said. He knew full well her feelings on that. 
     "If I can take a shot at him, yes," she replied. "If I can't, and all I can do is ID the body, I'm not complaining." 
     Another hand came up. "Isn't there a VIP cottage? What if somebody's there?" 
     Croft turned to Jessica. "Petty Officer?" 
     "He does entertain VIPs from time to time. Visiting officers, sometimes the Governor of the Colony, off-world officials, that sort of thing. Sometimes we had to wait on them-you know, serving them with food or drinks. And....." her voice trailed off, remembering the "other services" that were sometimes forced upon them. 
     "Check out the cottage," Croft said. "If somebody's there, try and get him alive. A VIP might be worth talking to."
     Byrne nodded. "Good idea, Major. If it's the Governor, say....."
    "He'd know quite a bit," Croft said. "Again, if you can, grab any VIP. If you can't, take them out." Heads nodded at that. "Any other questions for now?" There were none. "All right: Sergeant, let's get you in some CQB run-throughs."
     "My pleasure, Major," Wagner said, as Castor tossed her an HK-416. 
     "Good. Captain, Petty Officer, come with me, and you can watch from a safe distance." 
     Byrne and Clemens looked at each other, then Byrne nodded. "We'd be glad to, Major." 
     "All right, let's get to it!" 

     
      That afternoon, Commander Adama called another briefing. As the principals gathered, Jessica was still surprised to be in the same room as a lot of brass, and she knew that, until this was over and her friends were out of the camp, she'd best get used to it. She was still in her USN coveralls, and after Captain Byrne explained to Sire Pelias that this was now the daily USN work uniform aboard ship, the others simply nodded. "And how are you adjusting?" Pelias asked. 
     "Fine, Sire," she replied. "But I can't wait to see my friends again." 
     "A sentiment most easily understood," Pelias said. "It shouldn't be long now."
     "And there's people I'm very anxious to see again."
      "They, no doubt, will be surprised to see you, as well," Xaviar said as he came up. "As you mentioned earlier, they may believe you dead." 
     Jessica nodded. "Sire, they probably do. Because it was ninety or so days ago since I was last there."
     Xaviar gave a polite smile. "Then they will be pleasantly surprised to see you well." 
     They will, Sire," Byrne said. "After that, they can start to put this little piece of Hell behind them." 
     "Indeed," Siress Tinia nodded. She turned to Wagner. "And you, Sergeant, you will have at least had some measure of revenge."
     "Some, Siress," Wagner replied. "I'm hoping the Ke'zar took care of the rest of that job for me." 
     "A not unreasonable possibility," the Siress nodded. "And if you take the Commandant alive?" 
      "Then everyone involved, whether it's the Sergeant, Petty Officer Clemens, or those still in the camp, get their day in court," Byrne said. "I've already talked to Sire Solon, and he's got an indictment already drafted and waiting. If we do get this worm alive, your anti-piracy law gets a workout."
    "A Tribunal, then," Tinia nodded. "And he spends the rest of his life on the Prison Barge." 
     "Or we could do with him what we did with the Il Fadim loonies, uh...lunatics," Wagner said. "Marooning. If some dangerous animal takes a bite or two out of him...."
     "Justice gets served-literally," Byrne said, half-jokingly.
     The council members laughed, and Xaviar nodded. "A very appropriate punishment, all the same." 
    "Aren't there Colonial laws against poisoning helpless animals?" asked Siress Lydia, completely deadpan. Even Byrne had to crack a smile at that one.
      Then Doctor Wilker came into the Ward Room, followed by Sarah, Apollo, Croft, and Colonel Tigh, and then Commander Adama, while Baltar, Moray, Orion, and Commander Allen were all there via com link. "I see that we're all here, so let's get started." After everyone took their seats, Adama nodded to Wilker. "Doctor?" 
     "Commander, everyone," the scientist said as he stood. "Most of what I have today is the intercepted alien communications that Commander Allen was able to pick up. All of that material has now been translated and evaluated. 
     "And your findings?" Adama asked. 
     "Commander, most of what we've got is routine stuff. Traffic Control talking to ships, the defense batteries talking to the command bunker-some sort of communications test, it would appear, using standard frequencies." 
     "Not their land lines?" Byrne asked. 
     "No, Captain," Wilker replied. "Though the imagery does show communications lines running to and from the batteries. It was some kind of routine communications check." 
     "Just like any defense installation in the Colonies," Tigh commented. 
     "Correct, Colonel," Adama said. "Please continue, Doctor."
     "Yes, Commander," Wilker nodded. "Anyway, it was all routine, until the two ships arrived. Then there was an upsurge in activity." 
     "Maybe someone important was on one of those ships," Apollo commented. 
     "That's exactly right, Captain," Wilker said. "The messages at first were routine, requesting berthing, yard crews to assist with some upkeep, that sort of thing. Then a shuttle went down to the surface of Ne'Chak, and it requested honors appropriate to a Flag Officer be prepared." 
     "A flag officer?" Byrne asked. "Someone from their Fleet HQ, or a Battle Group commander, I'm betting." 
     "Yes, Captain," Wilker nodded. "A Senior Admiral Beshik." 
     Hearing that, Petty Officer Clemens froze. "Holy mother of..."
    "Petty Officer?" Adama asked. 
    "Sorry, sir. It's just...My God, I thought I'd never hear that name again." 
    Byrne and Wagner looked at her. "Petty Officer?" Byrne asked. 
    "Sir, that's Lemeshik's father. I've only heard that name once, but it's him." 
     "What would he be doing here?" Apollo wondered aloud. 
     "A meeting with his son, though whether it's military business, family matters, or.....family and criminal business," Sarah pointed out. "All are possibilities." 
     "The intercepts also ask for arrangements for leave for the crews of the two ships," Wilker reported.
     "He's just come off a patrol?" Allen asked. "Oh, great." 
     "Or an exercise," Xaviar reminded everyone.
     "Or both," Adama said. "All are quite possible. Anything else, Doctor?"
     "Not much else that's military," Wilker responded. "Commander Allen did pick up some of their entertainment broadcasts, and even a weather report. Fairly routine for a colony world of this sort." 
     "Anything else, Doctor?" 
     "Nothing new, communications wise. We're still working on the 3-D model of the camp for Major Croft's team, and should have that in a day or so. The techs are getting tired, Commander, otherwise, we'd be finished by now."
     "Once this mission is completed, Doctor, your people will have earned a rest," Adama said. "And they'll get it." 
     "Thank you, Commander. Otherwise, that's it for now." 
      "Well done," Adama said. He turned to Tigh. "Colonel?" 
      "The Fleet is approaching patrol range of the nuclear-devastated system, Commander, and we will also be in range of one other system that the aliens intend for eventual colonization. Both should be within effective patrol range by this time tomorrow, present speed." 
     Adama looked to his son. "Apollo, Blue Squadron's on the rotation for tomorrow, is that right?" 
    "Yes, sir," Apollo replied. "I just finished the flight schedule."
     "Good. You and Orion take the devastated system." Adama ordered
     "Yes, sir," Apollo nodded. 
     "By your command," Orion replied. 
     "Get another patrol to that second system as well," said Adama. 
     "Yes, Commander," Apollo said. 
     "And the search for Brown Dwarves?" Adama asked Tigh. 
     "So far, nothing," Tigh reported. "Though I've been working closely with Command Centurion Moray," he said, gesturing to Moray's image on a monitor. 
    "Moray?" Adama asked. 
     "I concur with Colonel Tigh," Moray replied. "Our searches have been very thorough. No Brown Dwarves have been detected. Though at this system, our chances are greater, as it is close enough to the target system."
    "I agree, Commander," Tigh said. 
     Xaviar nodded. "A Brown Dwarf would be nice, but not essential." 
    "It would, Sire," Adama agreed. "Patrols?" He asked Tigh.
     "Still showing the area clear, and no alien communications detected." the Exec replied. 
     "Good," Adama said. "Apollo, Orion, continue with the current patrols."
    "Yes, Commander," Apollo said.
     Orion nodded. "By your command."
     Adama then turned to Baltar. "Baltar, I need a list of what imagery you'll require for you to brief your pilots, as well as your gunners, as you will be taking on the fire-support mission."
     Baltar nodded. "I'll have that for you as soon as possible." 
    "Very good, Baltar." Adama then turned to his SF leader. "Major Croft?" 
    "We had Sergeant Wagner join us today for some rehearsals," Croft said, gesturing to Wagner. "I'm very confident we can get the ground portion of the mission done in twenty-five centons from first shot fired to extraction." 
    "That fast, Major?" Pelias said. "I'm impressed."
     "Captain Byrne has told us of several prisoner or hostage rescue missions on Earth, and those emphasize speed and surprise in execution of the mission. The same thing applies here," Croft replied. 
"No warning for them means fewer casualties for us, Commander. And she's even identified a potential flaw in the plan."
     "Sergeant?" Adama asked. 
     "Commander," Wagner said. "What could blow this on the ground is a guard spotting us as we're cutting the wire. The guards on roving patrol and in the tower need to be taken out swiftly and silently." 
     "And the machinists are producing some threaded barrels for the Mark-17 heavy-caliber rifles," Croft added. "They'll have those ready in two days, and my designated marksmen will be doing some additional training." 
     "How soon until you're mission ready, Major?" Adama asked. 
     "Once we get that model of the camp from Doctor Wilker," Croft said. "I need at least a day, preferably two, for final rehearsals. Technician Hummer has devised a way to adapt some of the Zohrloch holotechnology to our systems, and create a virtual three-dimensional computer-generated model of the camp. Full-sized. We can train in an environment as close to the real thing as possible."
    "Where?"
     "On the Agro Ship One, sir. It's being set up in the desert dome, right now. Once that's done, we train the Hades Hole out of ourselves some more. Then, I'll be able to report mission ready."
     "Very good, Major," Adama said. "We still need time to determine where we'll conceal the Fleet during the mission, as well as conduct final briefings, and finalize the strike plan." He looked around the table and at the monitors. "Can we be ready in five days?" 
     "I'd be more comfortable with six, Commander," Tigh said. "It'll take a while to run those concentrated scans for a Brown Dwarf. And evaluate them." 
    "Apollo?" 
    "We're pretty much ready now," Apollo replied. "But more time to get familiar with the target? We can use that. Six days would be enough."
     "Captain Byrne?" Adama asked. 
     "On Earth, these things take a lot of time to prepare," Byrne said. "But some of the more successful missions of this sort have taken place with not much time for planning. Five or six days isn't that unusual." 
     "I'll go along with that, Commander," Allen replied. 
     "Very well," Adama said. "Baltar?" 
     "We'll be ready over here, Adama," Baltar replied. 
     "Six days..." Xaviar said. "The Lords willing, our Earth brethren will be freed, and these aliens will get taught a very serious object lesson." 
     "They will, Sire," Adama agreed. "Does anyone else have any other comments?" There weren't any. "Very well, that's it for now." 


     The next afternoon, Apollo and Jolly launched on the patrol to the devastated system, along with Orion and his wingmate, while Sheba and Hunley went with Vettius and his wingmate to the second target system. As the Vipers left, Croft and his team, with Sergeant Wagner and Petty Officer Clemens, were going over the holographic recreation in the Desert Dome, and to Clemens, it took her straight back to the camp. "My God, it's so real. Just like a movie." 
     "You can walk us through," Wagner said, and Croft nodded. 
     "Okay..." Jessica said. She pointed to the first barracks. "That's Barracks One. It's for the men. The single door and guard post are on the north end." 
     "You said one guard, right?" Croft asked. 
     "That's right, Major. One guard each on all three. The other guards are roving," the ex-prisoner said. As she did, Croft clicked on his pad, and a computer-simulated guard appeared. "Barracks Two is for the women," she continued. "My old haunt."
     "And it's got the same layout?" 
     "It does, Major," Clemens said. "One guard on the north entrance, like the Men's." Click; another "guard." 
     "You said some friends would sneak back and forth. How do they get past the guard?" Lauren asked. 
     Jessica smiled. "Halfway through the shift, the guard takes a nap. He's pretty regular about it; all he does is sit back in a chair and that's it. The windows are barred, but the buildings are a foot or two above the ground-it prevents digging a tunnel, but you can drop through the floor onto the ground, and slip over to the next building." 
     "As long as you're back in time for wake-up and roll call." 
     "Yeah," replied Jessica. "Nobody's been caught-that I know of." She led everyone over to the model of Barracks Three. "This one's for the couples and their kids."
     "How many couples?" Castor asked. 
     "Four that I know of," Jessica said. "Two had kids, the last time I was there. And the other two were expecting." 
    "So, at least two, and up to four, children?" Croft asked. He nodded to Team One's Medtech, Alic.
    "No problem, Major," Alic said. "When it's time for extraction, the kids and their mothers go first." 
     Wagner nodded. "I was about to suggest that, but good call." 
     "Thanks, Sergeant,' Alic said. 
     "What's in number Four?" Croft asked. 
      "They use it partially for storage," Jessica said. "Part of it's a theater, when they want to show us those propaganda videos, or to give some kind of propaganda harangue. The other third is the clinic." 
     "Clinic?" Tellus asked. 
     "There's a small clinic for the prisoners. One of the prisoners is a military nurse, and she also runs the nursery for the babies while their mothers are working." 
     "No doctor?" Alic asked. He was hoping to become a doctor himself, though as far as he knew, no SF Medtech had ever come back to SF as a combat-qualified medical officer. He wanted to be the first. 
     Jessica shook her head. "There's an alien doctor, but he's not very compassionate. Except to his own race. Anna-that's the nurse, has to bargain with him to get people excused due to illness or injuries. Even to get basic supplies like bandages and proper bedding. We're just slaves, and to them, being sick really isn't an excuse to not be working." 
     "Bastards," Wagner muttered, and several team members said their own curses."Where's the kitchen?" 
     Jessica pointed. "That small building, north side, between Two and Three." 
     "Any prisoners work there?" Croft asked. 
     "Several, and I was one of them. There's several of the staff who supervise." 
     Heads nodded. "And showers?" Dorado asked. 
     "In each barracks," Jessica said. "Two stalls, when the water works. Same for the latrine." 
     "So there's five guards who rove around?" Kuntz asked. 
     "That's right," Jessica nodded. She led everyone to the punishment area. "You can tell if someone's in the punishment area. If there's one guard, no one's there, and that's just his duty station." 
     "And if there's more than one, that means there's prisoners in the sheds," Croft said. And by the tone of his voice, it wasn't a question. 
     "I know from experience..." Jessica said, her voice trailing off. She remembered the times she had spent there, sweating in the day and shivering in the night, often with barely anything to wear, if she was lucky, and no blanket. "The guards come around every so often at night, banging on the sheds with their rifle butts, to keep you awake. Or they beat you with the rifle butts, just for fun." 
     "Sick frakkers," said Castor. 
     "The real sick ones work over there," she said, pointing to the interrogation hut. "Scarface, one or two junior officers, and a half-dozen guards. I know all of them, and not by choice." She turned to Castor and his men, who would be storming that area. "If you can, kill them all." 
     "Don't worry about that," Castor said, patting her on the shoulder. "If we can take Scarface alive, fine, as the Major said. If not, you won't have to worry about him bothering anyone else again." With a click, more figures appeared. 
     "And if I get a shot at him," Lauren said, gesturing at the simulacrum. "Both our scores will be settled. With him, anyway." 
     Jessica nodded. Then she turned and pointed out the guards' and officer's quarters, the VIP cottage, and the HQ building. "Who's going for these?" 
     Lieutenant Stark, the Team Two Leader, nodded. 'My team, Petty Officer." 
     "If you can, you'll be doing me and all the other prisoners a favor when you hit these."
     "Name it," 
     "Your men can kill all of them they want, as far as I'm concerned." She said with a deadly serious look to her eyes, and a very cold tone of voice. Then she and Wagner headed over back to the prison compound.
     "Looks like she means it, Major," Stark nodded. 
     "She does," Croft said, turning to follow Wagner and Clemens. "After what these people did to her and the others? I'm not arguing with her." 
     Then Team Four's leader asked Croft a question. "Anything else besides overwatch and reserve?" 
     Croft nodded. "There's one road going to and from the camp. Kill anyone trying to get away." Then Croft turned to the Teams. "You've got two Centars to get familiar with this whole area. Get to know it like the curves of your girlfriends, then we hit this place running. I want twenty-five Centons from first shot to extraction."
     The team members nodded. 
     "All right, people! Let's get familiar with this place, and run the first rehearsal." 
     "YES, SIR!" 


     While the SF Team was becoming familiar with the target at eye level for the first time, and going through rehearsals, Apollo's patrol was entering the devastated system, which had seven planets. As the Vipers and Raiders drew closer, their scanners noticed something right away.
     "Captain," Orion said over the com, "I have a target in orbit over the outermost world. No sensor emissions of any sort." 
    "Got it too, Skipper," Jolly said. 
     Inside his cockpit, Apollo nodded. "Let's go check it out." 
     The four fighters went for the outer world, which was an ice ball of frozen ammonia and nitrogen, and had a single moon with a similar makeup. "Got it, Skipper," Jolly called. "Looks like an automated probe of some kind. There's a tiny radion trace, but no power sources working."
     "And so no emissions of any sort," Orion said. 
     "Someone launched it, and probably from the inner world, most likely," Apollo said. "Mark it. The recycling ship might want to scoop it up." 
    "By your command," Orion said. 
     The four fighters penetrated deeper into the system, finding at first, a medium-sized gas giant, then two large ones, and the second planet was a ringed beauty, with at least two dozen moons, and several of them being active volcanically. As a result of that, there was a considerable dust cloud around the world and its moons, which, along with the gas giant's own radion belts, was clouding their sensors. If their sensors were having trouble, then the aliens' would be nearly useless. 
    "Orion, this might just be perfect to hide the Fleet. Let's check out the devastated world."
    "By your command, Captain." Orion replied. 
     As the patrol closed with the devastated world, it was clear that not only had there been a nuclear war on the planet, but there had been combat in space as well. A number of wrecks were in orbit around the world, all of whom showed clear signs of weapons impacts, and that included several orbital stations, all of whom were exposed to vacuum, and had been targeted by some kind of weapons fire. Either lasers or rail guns, it appeared from the type of damage. Then, as the Vipers and Raiders entered orbit, the devastation on the surface was clear. 
     "My God, Skipper," Jolly said. "They blew themselves up." 
     "Looks that way," Apollo agreed. "Blasted cities, and some of those have impact craters. It'll take the lab on the Galactica to determine how powerful these warheads were." 
     "Captain, I suggest checking the plains on both hemispheres," Orion said over the com. "There are signs of missile silos, a few of which are intact. But there are numerous craters in the silo fields." 
      Apollo took a look at one of the plains. Sure enough, a silo field for at least a hundred missiles had been emplaced, and most of the silos had been taken out by surface detonations. But a few had survived, and their missiles had been fired, for the silo doors were open and scans showed them empty. "Whoever they were, they didn't go down without a fight." 
     "There are similar silos in the other hemisphere," Orion reported. "The ruined cities show similar weapons effects." 
      "All nuclear warheads," Jolly said. "Plenty of residual radion around. Plant life encroaching on the ruined cities, but some areas still look barren, as if someone dropped some bio-warfare rounds." 
    "Concur, Captain," Orion said. "This world is a wasteland." 
     "Some life forms," Apollo noted. "There may be survivors, but far from any blast zones, and there is life in the oceans."
    "But nothing advanced," replied Orion. 
     "No signs of operating technology, no," said Jolly, disgusted. 
     In his Viper, Apollo nodded. "All right: let's get back to the Fleet. This might just be where we keep the Fleet during the mission." 
     With that, the four fighters set a course back to the Colonial Fleet. 

      The second patrol, with Sheba taking Hunley and Flight Leader Vettius and his wingmate, was just then entering the other system. This system had eight planets, with what the alien data showed to be a potential colony world in its life zone. As the four-ship formation entered the system, their sensors picked up a target. "Lieutenant," Hunley called. "Got something on long-range scan. It's a ship." 
     "Verified," Vettius reported. "It, too, is entering the system." 
     Sheba scowled in her cockpit. An alien patrol. It had to be. "Stay out of their scanner range. ECM to full. Let's follow him." 
     "By your command," Vettius replied, as Hunley formed up on her flight leader. 
     The four fighters followed the alien ship in. From the scans, it looked like an intact version of the wreck found by Giles and Cree. "He's heading towards the third planet," Sheba called. 
     "Copy, Lieutenant," Hunley replied. "There's another one!"
     "What?"
      "Confirmed,' Vettius reported. "A second ship in orbit. Similar size and configuration. Two life forms in each ship. Minimal armaments and no shielding." 
     "They may be scouts or surveyors," said Sheba. Given that the aliens themselves wanted to colonize this world in due course, that wouldn't have surprised her at all.
     "Logical," Vetius responded. "The first ship is joining up with the second. Both are in orbit."
     "Stay back," Sheba ordered. "Stay out of their range." 
     "Copy, Lieutenant," Hunley replied. 
     "By your command," Vettius said. 
     As the fighters orbited, out of alien range, their own sensors picked up something. "They're talking to each other," Sheba noted. "Picking up their coms." 
    "Confirmed," Vettius reported. 
     Whatever the two ships were discussing, it wasn't long until the second ship left orbit, and headed on out. A minor course change by the Raiders was necessary for them not to be picked up, but nothing happened, and the alien ship passed well out of its own sensor range. "Follow him, Hunley, you and Castus.  Go as far as the heliopause, then get back here. See if you can plot where he's headed." 
     "Will do, Lieutenant," Hunley called. Then she and Castus-Vettius' wingmate-peeled away and followed the ship. 
     After they left, Sheba and Vettius watched the new arrival. A few centons passed, then the ship fired maneuvering thrusters, reorienting itself. Then, firing braking thrusters, it bled off velocity, and began to descend, into the atmosphere. "He is initiating a landing cycle, Lieutenant." Vettius reported. 
     "I see it," Sheba replied. "Let's see where."
     As they watched, the alien ship landed on a broad continent, girdling the equator, that held wide areas of savannah terrain. "A variety of life forms here, but no signs of intelligence," Vettius said. "Abundant mineral resources detected."
     "Probably why they want to set up a colony here," Sheba said. 
     "Logical," . 
      Then Hunley and her Cylon wingmate returned. "Lieutenant, he's headed for the Chak system."
     "The one we're going to hit?" Sheba asked. 
     "Affirmative," Hunley said. "He's on that vector. Not for their capital."  
     "Confirmed," Castus reported. 
     Sheba nodded inside her cockpit. "Right, then. Any signs of remote probes, satellites, marker buoys, anything like that?" 
     "None," Vettius replied, and the others did the same. 
     "Okay. Let's get back to the Fleet." Sheba ordered, and the four-ship turned and left the system, leaving it to its alien surveyors.


     As the Vipers were returning to the Fleet, Commander Adama, along with Sires Pelias and Xaviar, and Siress Tinia, went to the Agro Ship One to see how the rehearsals for the attack on the slave camp were progressing. When they arrived in the Desert Dome, they found three people watching the SF Team at work, and those three were not unexpected. Not only was Captain Byrne there, but also Commander Allen and Petty Officer Clemens as well. Commander Adama noticed that the Petty Officer had a stopchrono and she was clearly timing the SF Team as they went through the operation. Then the extraction call came, and she stopped. "Twenty-five point zero four," she called. 
      "Good work people!" Croft said. "You get a centar to get something to eat, get some rest, then we're back at it again." 
     The troopers nodded, then headed out, while Croft and Sergeant Wagner came over to where Captain Byrne and his people were standing.
    "Twenty-five zero four?" Wagner asked. 
     "That's right," Clemens called. "Better and better. They shaved a whole half-min...uh, centon, off the last one."
      Byrne nodded, then made a note on a pad. "You guys are hovering right at twenty-five on the mark. If you can save four microns from somewhere...."
     "Not sure where we can," Croft admitted. 
     Wagner nodded, then she saw Commander Adama and his party approaching. "Commander on the deck!"
     Adama nodded, then raised his palm. "As you were, all of you. I see you're making progress, Major." 
     We are, Commander," Croft said, and they could hear the approval in his voice. "Things are pretty consistent: we're just above twenty-five centons." 
     Sire Pelias smiled. "Impressive, Major." 
     Croft nodded. "Sire." He turned to indicate Captain Byrne and Commander Allen. "We've heard about similar operations on Earth from both of them, and finding out we've got some things to learn about fighting a biological enemy all over again." 
     "The Major's right on that, Commander," Byrne said. "Throw in guards who seem to fall asleep on duty, the lack of really intense perimeter security-such as mines or any kind of sensors, their own hubris, and a good dose of complacency, and these people are going to get a very rude wake-up call they'll never forget." 
     "Assuming any of them live, that is," Clemens spat. "Uh, sir." 
      Adama nodded. "There is that, Petty Officer. It would seem these people have many of the weaknesses the Cylons lack. So, Major, you've been learning about similar missions on Earth?" 
      "Yes, Commander, we have," Croft said as he took a drink of water. "Captain Byrne and Commander Allen have told us about a number of such operations. Raids on prison camps, or hostage rescues, both those that succeeded, and those that were failures." 
     "I see.." Xaviar said. "And some of those were?" 
     "Well, Sire, Byrne said. "There was a raid on a Japanese prison camp in the Philippines, during our Second World War: the raid on Los Banos, on February 23, 1945. An airborne reconnaissance company was infiltrated with the help of local guerrillas and with a company of paratroops that was dropped in right as the prisoners were assembling for roll call. All 2,147 civilian and military prisoners were freed, at the cost of two killed and two wounded. This operation is still studied on Earth as a model for operations of this sort." 
     "Impressive," Xaviar nodded. "And a prominent failure?" 
     "That would be the Son Tay Raid," Commander Allen said. "During the Vietnam War." 
     "Commander, Sires," Byrne nodded. "Son Tay was a POW camp outside the North Vietnamese Capital of Hanoi." He leaned down, and drew a rough sketch in the sand. "It held 55 American POWs in poor conditions, and all had been tortured and abused, were seriously malnourished, and suffering from various ailments contracted in captivity. On November 21, 1970, U.S. Army Special Forces, who we call the Green Berets because of their headgear, conducted a helicopter assault on the prison. They wound up killing over two hundred enemy, got in and out in under..oh, I'd say thirty centons, your time, and didn't lose a man. Problem was: no prisoners were at the camp." 
     This was something neither Wagner nor Clemens had heard about Vietnam. "That must've been a heartbreaker, sir," Clemens said. "For the rescue team." 
     "It was," Byrrne said. He'd met a former Son Tay raider while he was a fighter pilot. And he'd met a former POW held at Son Tay while at Annapolis. "But the POWs felt otherwise. The North Vietnamese moved all the POWs held outside of Hanoi to prisons in the city proper, or on the immediate outskirts, but well within Hanoi's air defense network. And for them, the raid meant compound living, in rooms with up to sixty or seventy prisoners, better food, medical care, letters and packages from home, you get the picture. And even when I left Earth, the POWs who were still alive all felt the raid was a "successful failure." He got up.
     "So, even if no prisoners were freed, the raid had some benefits," Adama noted. "Their captors had no choice but to start treating them more humanely." 
     "They did, Commander," Byrne said. "And the torture, which had stopped for a yahren prior, never came back, a lot of the prison personnel who'd been very notoriously brutal, as guards or interrogators were transferred out, and things were generally tolerable." 
    "What about that mission in Iraq you told me about, sir?" Wagner asked. "The Lynch raid?" 
     "Oh, God," Commander Allen said. "That was a military success, but it was a bloody media circus. That mission made the news world wide."
     Byrne nodded. "It was, but what most people forget in that case was that she was lying in an enemy hospital with two broken legs, a broken arm, a broken back, and some internal injuries. She was frightened, in pain, and wanting to be rescued. And the SEAL Team that raided the hospital did just that."
      "Uh, seal team?" asked Xavier. Byrne explained. "It was a media circus because she was the first POW successfully rescued by U.S. Forces since the Second World War." 
     "And there were claims of propaganda exercises, media manipulation, and so on," Allen said. "To her credit, though, Ms. Lynch has not gotten into that, saying she's not a hero, but those in her unit who died were the heroes, along with the rescue team who got her out of captivity."
     "That she does," Byrne said. "I've met her, and she prefers to use a different term to describe her experience." 
     "And that is?" Tinia asked. 
     "Survivor, Siress.." 
    "Which brings me to another point," Wagner said. "When this story gets to IFB, those vermin are going to be all over this. The people we're going to rescue may not be in the mood to talk to those.....scum at IFB, and personally, I don't blame them at all." 
    Tinia nodded. "Perfectly understandable, Sergeant." 
     Pelias turned to Byrne. "Captain, how does your military treat returned prisoners? Especially if the news media wants to talk to them."
     "It's up to the individual, Sire," Byrne said. "If a released or rescued POW wants to talk to the news media, it's their choice. Not the media's." 
     "Commander," Wagner said. "If I may?" 
     "By all means, Sergeant," Adama nodded. "Say whatever's on your mind." 
     "Thank you, Commander,," said Lauren. "Sir, we need to make it clear to the vermin at IFB that it's up to the former prisoners if they want to talk to them. Not the other way around." 
    "Good thinking, Sergeant," Byrne said. "Commander?" 
    "Agreed," said Adama. "I'll have a long talk with Heller about this once this mission is over, and the freed prisoners are recovering in Life Center. Whether or not they talk to IFB is their choice. And definitely not IFB's. They're already on a leash regarding the Petty Officer's presence in the Fleet., and if necessary, I'll tighten it." 
    "Thank you, Commander," Byrne said. 
     "You don't seem to have a very high regard for journalators," said Adama, to Byrne. "Yours or ours. Why is that?"
     "It's not the press, Commander. My country has had the tradition of a free press for over two hundred and fifty of our years. It is enshrined in our Bill of Rights. It's just that many in the media seem to forget that the military is not their enemy, that it is the military that has helped to maintain the freedom to have a free press. A lot of them act as if we can do no right, as if we are somehow their enemy. Or wastes the taxpayers' money, with unneeded or overly expensive weapons systems."
     "It was the same in the Colonies, I'm afraid," replied Adama, sadly. "A lot of them seemed to forget just how many had already died, to protect their right to say such stupid things."
     "By God. Now I know we're related," said Allen, and they smiled.


     The next morning, the Fleet entered the devastated system after the patrols returned. Adama had been very interested in what Sheba's patrol had reported, and that the scout ship that had left that system had headed for Chak-their intended target. As the Fleet came into the system, the ringed gas giant soon came into view. 
     "Apollo was right, Colonel," Adama said on the Galactica's Bridge. "With all this dust, plus the radion from the gas giant's belts, the alien sensors will have a very hard time detecting the Fleet. If they ever come here, that is." 
     Tigh nodded. "We should be gone and back before they have to worry about that, Commander." He paused for a centon. "Who will be in operational command the Fleet in our absence?" 
     "Commander Allen," Adama said. He'd made the decision the night before. 
     "A first: a man from Earth commanding a space fleet, even if it's only a temporary assignment. And a Colonial one, to boot." 
    "There is that, Colonel," Adama said. "How long to run all the astronomical scans?" 
     "I've talked with Command Centurion Moray, Commander. We need at least thirty Centars. More likely thirty-six." 
     "Very well," Adama nodded. "Once we've made our Fleet dispositions, get started on those." 
     "Yes, Commander." 
      Then Athena called to her father. "Commander, there's a ship on scanners. Coming into the system." 
     "Can you identify?" Adama asked. 
     "No, sir. Not yet. It's not in the Warbook, and she's not transmitting an identification beacon." 
     "Colonel, put the Fleet on full alert. But do not sound Battle Stations as yet." 
     Tigh nodded. "Commander." 
     "Notify Baltar. Have him launch a Raider flight from his alert squadron. Silver Spar is on alert, so tell Captain Bojay to launch a flight as well. They're to identify the ship. The same Rules of Engagement are in effect." 
     "Yes, sir." 

      Bojay and his wingmate launched from the Galactica, and formed up with their Cylon counterparts. They then headed out in opposite directions, coming around in the direction of the incoming ship to catch the still-unkown vessel between them. With their scanner advantage, they had the ship on their screens long before the aliens would. 
     "Got the ship. About twice the size of the wreck of the ship Giles found."
     "Verified," the Cylon flight leader confirmed. "Six life forms aboard. No shielding detected, and minimal armaments."
     "He's closing with the ringed planet," Bojay noted. "ETA ten centons. Let's plug his mouth and ears. I'll notify the Galactica." He activated his ECM suite, and the Cylons followed suit, cutting off both the alien's sensors and communications

      On the Galactica Bridge, Adama and Tigh were watching a monitor. "What's he doing?" Tigh asked. 
     "He's slowing down, it seems. Athena," Adama asked his daughter. "What do you have?" 
     "Alien ship's sensors are not as capable as any of the others. His engines aren't as well," Athena reported. "Their power curve is way below the other ships."
    "That doesn't make any sense," said Tigh.
     "It does if he's a civilian," Adama said. "A freighter, or perhaps..."
     "Father, he's just dropped out of lightspeed. Now at Factor zero point eight-five, and decelerating."
     "Omega, put the Galactica on an intercept course. Have Baltar follow." 
     "Commander," the Bridge Officer replied. And both the Battlestar and the BaseShip moved on the intercept course.

     Aboard the alien ship, the Captain was cursing the gods. First, his contact wasn't at the meeting point, and second, his entire scan suite had just turned to mud, along with communications. Deader that a roasted Ke'Zar. And if that weren't enough, the two largest ships he'd ever seen in his life were now coming towards him. He was just about to order the First Mate to turn the ship around, after finding communications choked, when they saw several craft surrounding them. Four ships, small, of two very different types, but both were clearly fighters of some sort. Two distinct designs, one ovioid, the other a ship that looked like it could fly equally well in an atmosphere as well as space. He had done some military service, and knew Ke'zar ships. These clearly were not their old enemies. Te'rean? From his service, he knew they were a backwards and primitive world, but given the time that had passed...then his Third Mate, who was in the second pilot's chair, saw the ships coming alongside. 
     "Evasive!" he ordered, and the helmsman punched in the order. No sooner had they begun to bank, then one of the alien craft opened fire, sending two intensely bright reddish beams of energy across their bow. A second followed, the energy blue. Having no choice, he slowed, and looked out the port. The pilot of one of the latter was motioning to him with hand signals. Certainly no Ke'Zar, in that machine! Yes, he was being ordered to follow the fighters. Given that they were surrounded, and with two large ships likely pointing scores of frightening weapons at him, it was a good idea to do what these strangers told him to do. 
 

    "Alien ship approaching Beta Bay, Commander," Omega reported. "LSO reports they have control."
     "Very well," Adama said. "Sergeant Fabius is in charge of Security while Castor's training for the raid, correct?" 
    "He is, Commander, Tigh replied. 
     "Notify him, and have a boarding party from Security meet the ship. After the crew is through DeCon and secured, put them in some interrogation rooms, and then we'll talk to them," Adama ordered. "But do not mention the others we have in custody."
    "Yes, Commander," Tigh said. "And the ship?" 
     "Have it searched. Top to bottom. And get Wilker's people aboard. Check their flight recorder and ship's computer. Maybe we can find out where they've been, and where they were headed. And if there's any additional information about our target system," Adama said. 
     "Commander, if he's like some of the more...unsavory characters we had in the Colonies, he may be a smuggler," Tigh reminded his CO. 
     "A devastated system, places to hide, and nothing left locally, to interest anyone," Adama nodded. He, too, remembered some of the Colonies' more infamous smugglers. "It does fit, Tigh. And we can use that to our advantage. He may be willing to talk, and talk long, if we tell him the alternative is being handed over to their own authorities when this is over." 
     "That might just do it, Commander," Tigh said. "If what he's doing violates their laws, we can use that."
     "One other thing: Have Captain Byrne, Commander Allen, Sergeant Wagner, and Petty Officer Clemens come over from the Agro Ship One. They may be of some use in checking this ship-and its crew-out. Commander Allen and the Sergeant especially." 
     "Commander?" 
     "Commander Allen, when he was on RB-33, had some deals with smugglers," Adama reminded his Exec.
     "I'd quite forgotten about that, Commander, Tigh said. "Good point."
     "And the Sergeant, in her 'Law Enforcement' capacity, probably dealt with smugglers in her home district," Adama said. "She may know what to look for. Have them come over to the Galactica as soon as possible." 
     "Right away, Commander."
     "Have them use the transport device. We need to save all the time we can. Notify Chief Twilly."
     "Sir." 

     After being notified, the four Earthers were quickly beamed to the Galactica, and it was Petty Officer Clemens who remembered a quote from an old TV show. 
     "Wasn't it Dr. McCoy who didn't like having his atoms scrambled?"
     "You a Trekkie?" Sergeant Wagner asked her roommate, with a grin. 
     "No, but I did watch a few episodes of the original. Never got into the show like my brother did." 
      Byrne and Allen nodded. "Give me a shuttle any day," Byrne said, and the Aussie echoed that sentiment. Then they saw Colonel Tigh come to greet them. "Permission to come aboard?" Byrne asked. 
    "Granted, Captain," Tigh replied. "Commander Adama wanted you over here as quickly as possible, and didn't want to waste time with a shuttle." The Galactica's Exec brought them up to speed, and when they got to Beta Bay, they found the ship already being examined by Security, and by Wilker's people.. "The Commander wants a report as soon as possible," Tigh finished.
     "Then we'll get to it," Byrne said. "Thanks, Colonel." 
     "Captain," Tigh nodded, and headed back to the Bridge.
     Just then, Sergeant Fabius came out of the ship. "Captain," he said, saluting. "I've just been told, and Commander Adama says whatever you need, you get." 
      Byrne shot a look at Wagner, who said, "What we need are four flashlights, and something to crack open any shipping containers." 
     Fabius nodded. "There's a work table, and everything you might need is there." 
    "Thanks, Fabius," Wagner said. They selected what they needed, and boarded the ship.
     For Allen, it reminded him of some bad memories as Krylon's captive, but he simply said, "Feels like you've stepped from one movie into another. Remember that show, Firefly?" 
     "Yeah, Ced," said Byrne. "All right: Ced and I will take the Cockpit and Crew Quarters. Sergeant, you and the Petty Officer, take the Cargo Hold and Engineering." 
     "Sir," Wagner said. "What are we looking for, exactly?" 
     "Anything that might indicate this guy's a smuggler. Any sign of hidden compartments, or cargo that could hide contraband, anything." 
     "Yes, sir," Wagner replied. "Never raided a drug dealer-that was Narcotics' job, but did bust a few people for drug possession during traffic stops." 
     "Think of this as one gigantic traffic stop. And Petty Officer?" Byrne said to Clemens. 
     "Sir?" Jessica replied. 
     "Think of this as a learning experience." 
     "Yes, sir." 
     Bryne and Allen climbed up the ramp, and went straight to the flight deck. There, they found Hummer already at work, downloading the contents of the ship's computer. "Technician," Byrne said. 
   "Sir," Hummer replied. "They told me you were coming." 
    "What's the deal with this ship's computer?" 
     Hummer smiled. "Not much, Captain," the tech replied. "Most of it's not encrypted, and what is, is on the Captain's own terminal. What those are, I have no idea." 
      Allen grinned. "I think I do. Kev, when I was on RB-33, I picked up a lot running that bar. Some of my best customers were smuggler types." 
     "What'd they have to say?" Byrne asked. 
     "How about this? The ones I got to know shared some tips, either as friendly advice, or when bombed out of their skulls, those that had skulls, but one thing a lot of them did was to encrypt the captain's own files. Lists of clients, drop and rendezvous points, payments, other contacts, that sort of thing." 
    "So no one could sell them out," Hummer said. 
    "Exactly," Allen nodded. "And there's this: a lot of captains did their own navigation. They wouldn't let other crew handle that." 
    "Which lessens the chance of someone in the crew selling them out," Byrne said. 
     "You got it," Allen grinned. "Plus, one less crewman to have to divvy the take with. Whether it's to law enforcement or customs, military-and the Ziklagi Military was death on smugglers, I heard, or bounty hunters, they didn't want to get caught." 
    "So this captain here did the same thing, you're figuring?" Byrne asked. 
    "I'd bet money on it," Allen said. 
    "Okay. Hummer? Get that stuff decrypted ASAP." 
    "Yes, sir," Hummer nodded. "This isn't their military system, so it won't be a problem." 
     "Good, get on it. Has anyone found any paper navigation charts?" 
     "No, sir," Hummer said. "And they checked." 
     "Okay, then. Ced, let's hit the Captain's cabin and other crew quarters." 

     Aft, Wagner, Clemens, and Sergeant Fabius were going through the hold. While Wagner and Clemens were scanning the deck and ceiling with flashlights, Fabius had a portable scanner. "Let's start cracking crates," Wagner said. She looked one over. It was metal, had latches securing it, and magnetic seals as well. She pulled out her crowbar and started to work on one. "Ugh.." she said as she pulled on the crowbar, and Clemens helped pop the latches. With a bang, she lifted the crate open. "Got it." 
     Clemens shined her flashlight in the crate. "Whoa...cloth. Lots of it." Inside, neatly stacked, were blots of cloth, of varying colors and textures. Ten in all.
     "That'd make the Fleet tailors pretty happy," Fabius said. "That shortage would go away like that," he said, snapping his fingers as he did so.
     "It would," Wagner admitted. "Then I could buy a one-piece bathing suit. The two-piece I got on R&R was pretty skimpy, but not by choice." 
     "What's this next one?" Clemens asked, going to work on another crate. Like the first, it had a tag attached that she could not read. Some of the symbols were the same, however. Maybe...After some effort, and Fabius' help, she got it open. "More cloth. Same as before. Uhh...ten bolts." 
     "Let's just hit crates at random," Wagner said, as she attacked another crate. "Dye here. Must be...fifty containers." 
     "As in dye for clothes?" Clemens asked. 
     "Yeah. Concentrate, it looks like," she said, hefting one. A metal bottle, with a label in the alien scrawl.
     "More cloth here. Man, it looks like freight day at Wal Mart." 
     "You got it," Wagner said. "The rest?"
     Nodding, Clemens went to another crate, but she saw something, and shined her light on it. A small piece of paper was coming out of the deck, beneath a cargo pallet. "What's this?"
     Both Wagner and Fabius came over. "What's a piece of paper doing, coming out from beneath a deck plate?" Wagner asked. Her instinct as a cop was coming back again. 
     "I'll scan it," Fabius said. "Nothing coming up...wait a centon." He adjusted his scanner. After a moment, he smiled, nodding.
     "Fabius?" 
    "It's void space," Fabius replied. 
     "No," Wagner said. "Help me move this crate and pallet out of the way." After doing so, it was obvious. The deck plate's outline was there. 
   "Nothing there, Sergeant," Fabius said. "Or so it looks."
     Wagner looked at him. "Ever do customs inspection?" 
    "No, that was Colonial Customs' job. Military Security hardly ever boarded a civilian ship unless it was wanted by the authorities." 
     Nodding, Lauren handed her flashlight to Jessica, and she pulled on the deck plate with her crowbar. When she lifted the plate, it was clear. "Just like on Constellation." 
    "A smuggling compartment?" Jessica asked. 
     "Yep," Lauren said, her eyes gazing on a number of rectangular bricks, all neatly wrapped. "And I know what this is." 
     Jessica grinned. Though she'd never been a cop, she'd seen enough cop shows, like Hawaii Five-0, Miami Vice, or T.J. Hooker,  to know what this was. "This guy's a drug runner?" 
    "Right you are," Lauren said. She turned to Fabius. "Get Captain Byrne and Commander Allen here. Now." 
     "Yes, Ma'am." Fabius nodded. 
     
      Bryne and Allen had just started checking the Captain's Cabin when Fabius found them. After he told the two officers what had been found, they followed him back to the cargo bay. "Whoa!" Byrne said. 
     "I knew it," Allen nodded. "Our boy's a smuggler. And a drug runner at that." 
     "This guy's in a heap of trouble," Byrne grinned. "Whether Sire Solon files charges, or their own people, he's in deep." 
     "He is that, sir," Fabius agreed. 
      Allen got down on one knee and examined a brick. He saw how carefully it had been wrapped. It seemed familiar to him. "Sergeant, do you have a pocket knife?" he asked Wagner. 
     She handed him hers. "Here you go, Sir." 
     Allen took the knife and started to slice open a brick. He pulled the knife out to find a crystalline substance on the blade. "Kev, I know what this is. And so do you." 
     "That drug Krylon was running? Irel?" 
      "Looks like it," Allen said. "We found some traces of it on Adelaide, and you did on Constellation, remember?" 
     "Yeah," Byrne remembered. "Salik took a few samples, for reference, then we jettisoned the rest. But I thought it was a liquid."
     "It can also be shipped in this crystal form. Easier to pack and ship in bulk. Easier to hide, too" He looked at the haul. At least twenty bricks in this space alone, each about the equivalent of roughly ten Earth kilos." My God, just a quick estimate...I'd say this would be worth over a hundred million, in dollars, Kev."
     Clemens looked at the brick. "What's this stuff all about? Ear...what?" 
     "Irel, Petty Officer," Allen said. "It boosts your metabolism, your stamina, and if you're running a mining operation, say, and give your workers this stuff, it increases their productivity. Massively. But at a price." 
     "Price?" 
     "It burns out your heart and liver, and a few other organs, too. Think of it as speed or meth back home. Or, think of it as speed on meth." 
     "I get it," Clemens said. "What happens if this captain got caught with this stuff?" 
     "From what I heard on RB-33," Allen said. "It's illegal just everywhere. It burns out your heart and liver, and some other organs, too. Degrades the nervous system in some species, if they live long enough. The Ziklagi are death on drug smugglers, literally. If you got caught with this stuff?" He drew a thumb across his throat. "Instant execution." 
     Wagner winced. "Ouch!" 
    "And the Zohrloch?" Clemens asked. She was catching on fast. 
     "From what Korl tells me, they give you a trial, that lasts, oh, a centar or so," Allen replied. "If you're convicted? Immediate execution. No right of appeal, except to their Zohr. And he'll probably throw you into the arena." He looked at Byrne. "The Zykonians were only marginally better. They might execute the captain, but ship the rest of the crew to a prison planet. No point in wasting good labor." 
    "Lovely," Byrne said, trying not to remember the time interned by the Zykonians on Krylamic.. "Okay: Fabius?" 
    "Sir?" the Security Sergeant asked. 
    "Three things for you: First: call the Bridge and inform Commander Adama. Request his presence down here at his convenience." 
     Fabius nodded. "Yes, sir. And the others?" 
    "Get a hold of Doctor Salik. Ask him to bring a drug testing kit to Beta Bay. We need to make sure this is Irel. Or something equally bad." 
     "Sir." 
     "Then get some extra hands, give them crowbars, and they work for Sergeant Wagner. They crack open every crate on this ship, and help look for hidden compartments," Byrne ordered. 
    "Yes, sir. Is that all?" 
     "It is for now. Go." 
     "Sir." And Fabius headed out of the hold. 
     "Captain?" Clemens asked. "Can we use this against this guy?" 
      "We can. If he's been to Chak, there's quite a bit of questions we can ask him. He'll answer, if he wants to keep his head on his shoulders. If not, he likely gets turned over to his own people, and their penalties for smuggling...."
     "Are likely severe," Wagner finished for her CO. "He gets a bullet in the back of the head if he's lucky." 
     "And if he's unlucky?" Allen wanted to know. 
     "Sir, they send him and his crew to that other camp the Petty Officer told us about. The one for their own criminals and dissidents." 
     "After a few weeks there," Clemens nodded. "They'll be wishing they had been shot. We were well treated in comparison to those people." 


      After getting the call from Fabius, Adama came down, along with Sire Xaviar, who had been on the Bridge when the call came. When they got to Beta Bay, they found the smuggler ship, sitting on its landing gear, both Wilker's people  and Twilly's, still at work, as well as Doctor Salik and two of his medtechs. And they were using a test kit of some kind, examining a block of something sitting on a work table. "Doctor?" 
      "Commander," the CMO replied. "I take it you've been informed as to this ship's....secondary cargo?"
     "I have, Doctor. And this is it?" Adama asked, pointing at the block. 
     "Yes, Commander. Both Captain Byrne and Commander Allen think it's Irel. A drug we first encountered on RB-33. And they're right." 
     "That means, Doctor, that this Captain has been out that far." 
     "It does, or he has connections who have. Right now," the CMO said, "we're working on a program to get this version of the drug recognized by our chemical sniffers." 
      "Very good, Doctor," Adama replied. "Are they.." 
     "Captain Byrne's people are still aboard, Commander." 
     "Thank you, Doctor." Adama motioned to Xaviar. "Shall we, Sire?" 
     "Certainly, Commander. I haven't boarded a ship engaged in this trade in many yahrens. The last one was a smuggler who was on a pirate's payroll, and I was on my final cadet cruise." 
     "I'd like to hear some of those stories, Sire," Adama said as they went up the ramp. 
     "One day, Commander, you and Captain Byrne will hear those stories." Xaviar grinned. 
      When the two got into the ship, they found Sergeant Fabius about to go into one of the crew cabins. "Commander!" he said, saluting. 
     "Sergeant," Adama said as he returned the salute. "Where's Captain Byrne?"
     "Straight through that hatch, Commander," Fabius said, indicating the hatch to the cargo hold. "He and his people are in there." 
     "Thank you, Sergeant," Adama said. He and the Sire went through the hatch, and found Wagner giving some instructions to a number of deck hands, and not only Byrne, Allen, and the Petty Officer, but Master Chief Varica was there as well. 
     "Okay, listen up!" Wagner said. "Check every crate on this ship. If you find what we've found so far, which is cloth and dye, just raise your hand and we'll tag it, then go on to the next crate. If you find something new, call out, and one of us will be right over. Also, check for anything out of the ordinary below your feet-as in deck plates. We found a hidden compartment because a piece of paper was sticking out. Do the same for the bulkheads. Questions?" There were none. She turned to Captain Byrne. "Sir." 
     Byrne then turned to Varica. "They're all yours, Master Chief." 
     Varica nodded, then clapped his hands. "Okay, you heard the lady. Get with it!" 
     As the hands went off on their work, Wagner saw the Commander and Xaviar coming. "Commander on the deck!" 
     "Carry on, all of you," Adama said, raising his hand. "I see you've been busy." 
     "Yes, sir," Byrne said. "Have a look at what we've found so far. And Byrne and his people showed the Commander and Xaviar the cloth and dye that had been found, then the hidden compartment. "And here it is, Commander, Sire. We might have missed it, if it weren't for that scrap. Those compartments have electrical conduits and relays running through them. It caused interference on our hand scanners, which I suspect was the idea. Certainly anything less advanced." He indicated the compartment in question. "And inside? Enough drugs that, if sold on the black market, would get the seller set up for life." 
     "And too many lives destroyed in the process," Xaviar said, not hiding his disgust. "How many blocks?" 
    "Twenty-two, Sire," Wagner said. "So far. Twenty-one here, the other batches are with Salik." 
     Adama shook his head. "Is this that drug from RB-33?" 
     Allen nodded. "Irel? Yes, it is, Commander." 
    "So this guy's been to RB-33?" Byrne asked. "It's quite a distance away. Then again, he didn't have the Fleet holding him back." 
    "Either that, or his supplier has," Allen said. "I don't remember seeing any of this race there, but then again, my bar was one of a half-dozen." 
    "One other thing we'll have to ask him," Adama said. "Any idea what this all is worth?"
    "Well, given what Irel goes for back in Zykonian space," said Allen, and making a rough conversion, I'd say this haul would bring something close to a billion cubits, street price. I don't even want to think of this crap ever reaching Earth."
    "Another boray who feeds on the misery of others," growled Adama. "If I..."
     Then a deck hand called out. Varica went over, looked in the crate, and said, "Captain, Sergeant? Over here." 
     The group went over to the crate, where a confused deck hand had pulled back some protective plastic covering inside the crate. "Animal skins, Sirs," he said. 
    "Animal skins?" Adama asked. 
     "Yes, sir. Scans show it's organic. Real animals, not synthetic stuff."
     Clemens looked inside the crate. "The kind you make coats out of, I think." 
     "Or rugs," Wagner said. 
    "This guy's trading in luxury goods," Allen said. "And no doubt without notifying the boys in the Customs Bureau. Sounds like a perfect cover." 
     Another deck hand called out, and this time, Clemens went over to have a look. She put on some gloves, then waved her superiors over. "Sirs, have a look at this."
    "What is it, Petty Officer?" Byrne asked. 
     "Frozen meat," she replied. Then she gave it a knock. "Packed in dry ice." 
     "Frozen meat, animal skins, clothing material," Byrne said. "A cover for the drug running." 
     "Or he has two or more customers," Xavair said. "If he's like some smugglers in the Colonies, he has  customers for the legitimate cargo, and another one for the drugs." 
    "Hadn't thought of that," Byrne said. "But then I lack your devious mind." Xavier smiled.
     Another hand called out, and Varica went over to where she was. Then he waved for the Commander to come over. "Yes, Master Chief?" Adama asked. 
    "Boxes, sir. Full of these." He held up several packs of data discs. "What's illegal about these?" 
     Byrne nodded. "The discs aren't illegal. It's probably what's on them. Want to bet this military-religious dictatorship has a long list of banned or 'subversive' music, art, video, literature, and so on?" 
    "I'd go along with that," Allen said. "Like the Soviets, Nazi Germany, or Iran. Only what the State permits. Commander?" 
     "It makes sense," Adama said. "All of this put together means he has a fairly large profit margin." 
     "That it does, Commander. Got to be pretty familiar with smugglers on RB-33." 
      Adama nodded. "Then your advice will be of use when we talk with this captain." He saw Allen nod, then turned to Wagner. "Sergeant, you're the 'law enforcement' or Security specialist here. Suggestions?" 
    "Sir, once we're finished checking and cataloguing the contents of these crates, we unload the ship. While the ship is given a more intense scan, we empty the crates and check them for false bottoms, sides, that sort of thing. They could be carrying even more contraband there. In fact, I'd bet on it. And we finish checking the Captain's cabin and the crew quarters for anything useful."
     Adama looked at her, then nodded. "Good thinking, Sergeant. We'll proceed on that basis." He turned to Varica. "Master Chief?" 
     "Sir?" 
     "Get as many hands as you need to unload this ship." 
     "Yes, Commander." 
      Then Sergeant Fabius came back into the hold. "Commander, you're going to want to see this. I was checking the Captain's Cabin." 
     Curious, Adama, Xavair, and Byrne's people followed Fabius to the Captain's cabin. Sitting on a table in the cabin were three small chests. "Sergeant?" 
    "Commander, the first chest has coins. Auric, by the looks of them." 
    "Sir?" Clemens asked Byrne. 
    "What we call gold, Petty Officer." Byrne said. 
     "Oh," she replied. 
     Nodding, Adama pointed to the other two. "And these two?" 
   "The second one has silver coins, as well as what looked like a sheaf of paper bank notes. The third has some papers. And what looks like a computer printout of a star map," Fabius said. 
     "Get that material to Wilker's lab, Sergeant," Adama said. "And put the coinage under twenty-four centar guard. Say nothing about it to anyone." 
    "Yes, sir!" Fabius said. 
     "Captain?" Adama turned to Byrne. 
     "Commander?" 
     "Good work, all of you. And well done." 
    "Thank you, sir." 
    "And I think it's time we had a chat with our smuggler captain," Adama said. 
     "Yes, sir," Byrne nodded.


     Byrne and his people found Sergeant Fabius on duty in the Galactica's Security Office, while Castor was prepping for the mission. Separate from the Brig, where the alien officers were being kept, it had a number of interrogation rooms, and there happened to be more than enough for the smuggler crew. 
     "Sergeant, who's where?" 
     "The smuggler Captain is in number one, then the rest in order of seniority. Room Seven has the chests, and the printed documents have been sent off to Dr. Wilker's lab. One guard on the chests outside at all times, as per the Commander's orders," said Fabius. "One of the crew is female." 
     "Crew?" Allen asked. "Or the Captain's mistress?" 
     "You'll have to ask her, sir," Fabius said. 
     "Not...another Earth woman?" Byrne asked.
     "No, sir. Humanoid, but not Human, nor Risik."
     "Who, then?" 
     "Maalabian, Captain. That race we encountered, shortly after leaving Zykonian space?"
     "Okay, I remember now," Byrne nodded. "Let's hope these slime haven't conquered her planet."
     "No, sir." 
     "Okay," Byrne said after thinking for a moment. "Ced, you know smugglers better than anyone on this ship. You take the Captain, and Sergeant, you're the lawman here. Back him up." 
    "You got it," Allen replied with a grin. 
     "Good cop, bad cop?" Wagner asked.
     "If that's what it takes."
     "Yes, sir,"  
    "Okay, Fabius?" Byrne asked. 
     "Sir?" 
    "Anyplace we can watch, like from behind a two-way mirror, say?" 
    "Yes, sir. Please follow me." Fabius took Byrne and Clemens into a room with a mirror with transparent Tylinium. "Here you go, sir.
     Byrne nodded.  "Okay, Petty Officer, you know these people better than any of us. If you can pick up his body language, or anything unusual, let me know." 
     Clemens nodded. "I'll do my best, Sir." 
     "That's the best any of us can do. All right, let's get going." 
      When Allen and Wagner stepped into the interrogation room, they found an alien, dressed in typical spacer garb, minus his sidearm and knife, but with some gaudy rings on his fingers. He looked up at them. "He reminds me of something," Allen said. 
     "Sir?" 
     "Some of my old customers," Allen remarked. "They dressed pretty much the same." 
     "I see.." Wagner said. She engaged the Languatron, and set it on the table between them. "Okay.....Captain..." She started. "Care to start talking?" 
      The alien started blabbing. "I am Captain Picaja, of the free trader Saccoroia. I want to know who you are, and by what right you have detained me, along with my ship and my crew. I am an honest businessman, trying to make my way in the galaxy." He stood up sharply when he was finished. 
     "Sit down!" Wagner yelled, and Allen sat him down in the chair. "You're not in any position to demand anything." She pulled out a folder, and opened it. There were images of the drugs in the smuggling compartment. "We found the drugs you were smuggling. That stuff's been outlawed in every civilized system, and quite a few uncivilized ones, I hear." 
      The alien looked at the images. Damnation of the gods! His client wouldn't be happy these people had boarded his ship and confiscated the cargo. "I, uh..."
      Allen got into his face. "Be glad you're right where you are, mate. Because if the Ziklagi had caught you, you would've been executed on the spot." 
     Both could see that the alien had broken out into a sweat. "I.."
     "And the Zykonians?" Allen asked. "They would probably execute you, and ship your crew off to a prison labor planet. They're always on the lookout for strong backs." 
     "Please..Uh...I can..." 
      "Sir, what about the Zohrloch?" Wagner asked. 
      "Oh, those guys?" Allen replied. "You get a brief trial, and if you're convicted, immediate execution with no right of appeal." He got into the alien's face again. "Or they throw you into an arena, to fight one of their warriors, or some wild animals."
     The alien captain hemmed and hawed. "Please, I can explain..."
    "I'm not finished with you, mate," Allen said. "If the Colonials prosecute you, it's life on a prison barge. Or marooning, at the court's discretion."
      "Uh...ma...maroon..."
     "Think about it, huh? You and your crew, stuck on some world where the plant life is tough, and the animals would just as soon eat you as look at you," Allen told him.
     "Good sir, I can be reasonable," the captain said, sweating profusely, yet somehow managing to inject a wheedling tone into his voice. 
     "You'd better be, because the last option is the best for you. You plead guilty, your illegal cargo is destroyed, and a fine imposed. Which, in all likelihood, means your legal cargo is confiscated and sold at auction. At least I'm assuming all the textiles and the meat chops are legal?" Wagner said, glaring at him for a long moment. "You and your crew keep your ship, the clothes on your backs, and not much else. Cut and dry, that is it. Your choice, so what'll it be?" 
    "You are Te'rean." the captain said. 
    "Wow. Nothing gets by the Professor, here, does it, Commander?" Wagner said.
     "Not a thing, Sergeant. He's a one-man brain trust, for sure."
     "Your race," Picaja demanded. "You are Te..."
    "The Colonials aren't, but we're of the same blood," Allen admitted.
    "You got a problem with that?" asked Wagner, leaning in close.
     "I..."
     "No, he doesn't have a problem with it," said Wagner. "Now, Captain, I..."
    "Ah. Yes, um...yes. What is it you wish to discuss?" 
     Allen looked at him. "Have you been to a space station called RB-33?" 
   "Yes," the captain replied. "Several times. It is a lengthy voyage, but the profits more than make up for the expense." 
      Wagner nodded. "You got the drugs there?" 
     "Yes," the captain said. "I did not deal directly with the supplier, but through intermediaries." 
     "Ever hear of a pirate and smuggler named Krylon?" Allen asked. "We've heard of him." 
     "Yes. And the current rumor on the station is that he was killed. By a young Te'rean woman." the captain said.
      "His enemies must have been legion," Allen said. "Okay. Now, we've got some questions about the Chak system." 
     "Chak? Wh..why would..."
    "We're doing the asking, Sunshine, and you're doing the answering," Wagner said. She took out a paper, and it had a number of questions. "Now, have you been there? And I'm talking recently." 
     "Yes, I have," Picaja said. "About ten days ago. We just..." He stopped, as if thinking better of the thought.
     "Yes?' He was quiet. "YES?" bellowed Wagner, grabbing him by the collar, and yanking.
     "W...we returned, after a visit to the Hork Trade Fair, in the Orpheonus System. After a few stops, we returned."
     Allen looked at him. Not long before Adelaide's recon to that system. "All right. What's the response time for the defenses?" 
      "Response time?" 
      "To an unknown ship, say. Or if there's an attack," Allen said, getting into the alien's face again. 
      "Not that long. It is not immediate, but...oh, three to five tenairi," Picaja said. "Less, of course, if they are on any alert." 
      Allen looked at Wagner. They'd have to get the exact conversion from Wilker. But it seemed like three to five centons-maybe four minutes. "How many fighters are on alert?"
     "That, I do not know precisely," the captain nodded. "However...."
     "Yes?" 
     "They usually have two to four on alert at any given time. The fighters are not starfighters, mind, but work well in the atmosphere." 
    "Is Ne'Chak your home port?" Wagner asked. 
      "It is. I have a small apartment there, where I live when not in transit. I still have contacts there, and it is where I was stationed during my military service," Picaja said. "Some of my clients are members of the military. And the government there."
     "How bloody convenient," Allen said. 
     She then took out a photo of Tsernavia, aka Scarface, and shoved it in his face. "Ever deal with this man?" 
     "He is the kind of man I would not want to deal with except on my own terms," Picaja replied, still sweating."But yes, I have dealt with the man previously." 
     "You have?" Wagner looked at Allen. Then at the mirror.
     On the other side, Byrne and Clemens were watching. "Ever see him?" he asked. 
      "I don't think so, Sir." Clemens replied. "But Scarface had to get the fancy food and liquor for the VIPs someplace."
     In the room, Wagner went on. "So, what's your deal with him?" 
     "He is the Commandant of a special camp there, where they have Te'rean slaves, the only ones in the entire sector." Picaja said. "Tsneravia has a reputation for sadism and brutality, but also for lavish living."
     "How so?" 
      "He enjoys fine food and drink, rare art and such, and has a reputation for entertaining important personages. Such as the Governor of the Colony, senior military officers, and some religious personalities," Picaja replied. 
     "Including access to the female prisoners?" Wagner asked, her voice dripping with contempt. 
      "They are Te'rean. And they can be treated in any manner deemed fit," Picaja said. He saw the rage in Wagner's eyes. "Though personally, I have never been to the camp for one of his...dinners." 
      On the other side of the mirror, Byrne looked at Clemens. Her eyes were closed, and her fists clenched. She was trying to forget some very bad memories of such....evenings. "Let it all out, Petty Officer. It won't be long. And that sick bastard gets exactly what's coming to him." 
     "I know, Sir," she replied, with a tear coming down her face. "Whether Lauren or one of Castor's men kills him, I don't care. Though I'd like it more if we caught him and then marooned him." 
     "Oh?" 
      She grinned. "Yes, sir. The idea of him facing down some nasty critter with a mouth full of sharp teeth is pretty appealing. None of his....talents are going to help him there." 
     Knowing how Wagner felt about Laban, and his own desires about Galerius and Eleglaberus, he sympathized with her. "I like the way you talk, Petty Officer. Those Il Fadim lunatics." 
     "Yes, Sir. Crunchy Critters forever, as far as I'm concerned. He deserves no less." 
      Beep. It was Sergeant Fabius, on the commlink. "Captain, there's something you should know. It's about the female crew member." 
     "What about her?" Byrne asked, He put it on speaker. 
     "Sir, she's not part of the crew voluntarily," Fabius said. "She was bought."
     "WHAT?" Clemens said. "First Lemeshik and now this guy?" She looked at her CO. "Sorry, sir." 
     "No apology needed, Petty Officer," Byrne said. "What's she saying?" 
     "Sir, she says she was uh, 'picked up' at RB-33," Fabius continued. "They have a....market there, so to speak. The Horks trade not just in goods, but people. This captain..."
     "I get what you're saying, Sergeant," said Byrne. "What's the rest of her story?"
     "Well, sir," Fabius replied. "She was not only the Captain's servant and, uh..."
     "She was his sex toy," Clemens spat. She wasn't hiding the disgust in her voice. 
     "She was," Fabius confirmed. "But she was also the crew's interpreter. She knows several languages, and actually got a cut of their take, if a small one. She was hoping to buy her freedom, and somehow get back home." 
     "Okay..." Byrne said. He thought for a centon. "Notify Commander Adama, Then come here, and tell Commander Allen and Sergeant Wagner. They're not finished yet."
     "Sir." 
      Fabius did as instructed, and knocked on the door of the interrogation room. Both Allen and Wagner went to see him. She turned to Picaja and said, "Make yourself at home, Boss. You're not going anywhere for a while." They got out of the room and Fabius told them. "What?" 
     "Sir, I hope you don't mind," Fabius said. "But since we've dealt with them before....."
     "Understood," Allen said. "That gives us one more charge to use against this guy." 
     "Which begs another question," Wagner said. "Why let this guy-or any other trader, for that matter-have any kind of contact with other races?" 
     "Good question, Sergeant," Allen said. "Let's ask him, shall we?" He turned to Fabius. "Thanks, Fabius." 
    "You're welcome, Sir." 
      They went back in, and found Picaja standing up with a grin on his face. "I'd wipe that smile off that face if I were you," Wagner said. 
     "But.."
     "Sit down, yobbo!" Allen said, shoving him into the chair. "Your lady just started talking. And she told us she's not with you of her own free will. And our Colonial friends have some pretty strict laws about that. Kidnapping, slavery, rape, and the list goes on." 
     "Life in prison," Wagner said. "Or marooning, at the court's discretion."
      "It'll suck either way  deadhead," snorted Allen
       The smile disappeared from Picaja's face. "Uh...ah. I can explain." 
      "You'd better," Wagner said. "Where did you get her? Raid a ship?"
      "I am not a pirate," he protested strongly, as if the idea was beneath him. 
     "A pig's arse, you ain't. You'll do wherever pays. Where did you get her?" Allen snarled. 
     "RB-33. There is a....market for such purchases. They say pirates bring captives there to sell."
      "Who?'
      "The Horks, mostly. They get them from trade with the pirate clans, or raids into nearby systems. RB-33 is just one of several markets." 
      "I see," Wagner said. "Now, care to explain why your government allows your people to travel outside your territory? Not to mention interacting with aliens?" 
      "This is not the Capital," Picaja said. "There, aliens are restricted to their own quarter, and their movements are severely restricted by the State Security services." 
      "They're all seen as potential spies," Allen said. 
      "Yes, and that they are regularly interacting with the State as equals is something the State is most anxious to conceal." 
     "And traders like you?" Wagner asked. 
     "As long as we pay the... relevant fees, and they are quite substantial, we are allowed to leave Risik space. However, there is an added condition." Picaja said. 
     "Which is?" Wagner looked at him. He was silent. "I'm listening." 
      "A full report on any and all alien races encountered is filed with the Star Force, along with all flight recorder and scanner data." 
     "They're getting intelligence out of you," Allen said. "Makes a certain sense."
      "Like the CIA or the KGB on the cheap," said Wagner. "So, you collect intelligence."
      "That is correct," Picaja nodded. "And they are especially interested in races that have little or no spaceflight capabilities." 
      "So they can be subjugated, with little loss to your side," Wagner said. "Just as you planned to do to our world." She got into his face. "Oh yeah, we know about your plan for Earth, and we can tell you this: it'll never happen." 
      "The State, whether it is the Star Force or the priests, says differently," the captain said. "However, I fear you will get there before we will." 
     "You seem pretty cynical," Allen nodded. "Care to elaborate?" 
      "It is why I am a civilian," said Picaja. "Once, I was a junior officer, and a deck officer on a patrol cruiser. I made the mistake of commenting to a fellow officer that we should be happy where we are, put the past, however painful it is, behind us, and move on. The next day, we were both called before a summary court, and handed our separation papers. We were accused of 'Lack of Devotion and Insufficient Motivation to the Service and to the Goals of the State.' No appeal, and the decision was final." 
     "Interesting story," Wagner said. "Can any of your crew confirm that part?" 
      Picaja looked at her. "Ask my First Mate, Jalzlak. He was the other officer." 
     "So someone informed on you," she replied. "Well, we'll talk to him. And you'd better pray to your gods that his information about Ne'Chak, and the system proper, matches yours. If it does, you might just get out of this as I said: with your ship, your crew-minus the slave-and the clothes on your backs." 
     "And if it doesn't?" Picaja said smugly.
     Allen got into his face. "Either you'll get used to a cell half the size of this room for the rest of your life, or you learn how to make a homemade spear." 
    The smile vanished quickly from Picaja's face. 
 
      After talking with Jalzak, the First Mate, and finding out that his information on Ne'Chak matched his captain's, along with his cynical attitude towards the Risik state, Byrne and his people reported to Commander Adama. They found the Commander in his office, having finished going over some Council business with Sire Pelias, and the young Sire was still there. "Commander? And Sire," Byrne said after being admitted in. "We have a report." 
     "Captain," Adama said and he gestured for Byrne's people to have a seat on the two office couches. "What do you have for us? And I do know about the slave girl our....friend had." 
     "Yes, Commander," Byrne said. "Commander Allen and Sergeant Wagner handled the interrogations, and we've found out quite a bit. These guys aren't like the military officers sitting in the Brig, They used to be junior officers, until they got kicked out of the service for daring to suggest that the Risik settle down and put the past behind them.  The Captain was a bit smug, but the First Mate was more cooperative." 
     "I see," Adama said. "And what did they say?"
     "Well, sir," Byrne nodded. "They've only got four of their atmospheric fighters sitting on alert, and their response time to an unknown sensor target is about five or six centons, from first klaxon to getting airborne." 
     "Not enough," Pelias said. "We'll have Vipers and Raiders over their spaceport before they can react." 
     "And the ground defenses?" Adama asked. 
     "The Captain didn't say, but the First Mate did," Allen said. "For those, the response time is about the same. It would be quicker if they were already on alert, but they're just not expecting an attack." 
     "Hubris, overconfidence, and pride?" Pelias asked. 
      "Sire, you pretty much answered your own question," Allen replied. "Along with the idea that 'an attack can't possibly happen now.' That attitude, on Earth, has set people up to get a pounding. The Soviets in June, 1941, prior to the German invasion, for example, or the Attack on Pearl Harbor later that year."
     "And 9/11," Byrne noted.
     "Or our own experience, Sire," Adama said. "The warnings that both Commander Fairfax and I had given prior to the Holocaust," For a moment, memories of arguments with Adar over whether or not the proposed armistice was a good idea in the first place, or the whole thing being too good to be true, came back. 
      Pelias recalled what Adama had told him and the other members of the Council about those sessions prior to the Council accepting the proposed Armistice.. "Yes, Commander." He looked at Byrne. "And the slave woman?"
     "Her name is Areela, Commander. She's been this guy's slave for two yahrens or so. She's pretty well educated, by the standards of her people, and has a talent for languages," Byrne said. He turned to Wagner. "The Maalabians were a race conquered by some now-defunct Empire, generations ago. They were about at our mid-twentieth century, technically. They were raided for raw materials and slaves, and it pretty well destroyed their native culture. They're all over that region of space."
     "I see, sir. Like people in Africa, or the Pacific Islands. Uprooted from the world they knew. Adapt or die out,' Wagner said. 
     "What was she doing on the ship?" Adama asked. 
     "Sir, she was not just the Captain's servant and sex toy, but she was also their interpreter. Apparently she was doing a good enough job, for her to be given a small portion of the take from their trading. Her ultimate goal was to buy her freedom, and somehow get home." 
     "Which is a considerable distance in our wake," Pelias nodded. "But she has a skill with languages?" Seeing Byrne nod, he turned to Adama. "Perhaps Academician Sarah can use an assistant?" '
     "It will be her choice, Sire, as a free woman, but yes, a position where her talents can be put to use would be called for," Adama said. "Where did they get her?" 
     "RB-33, Commander," Wagner said. "Apparently, a race called the Horks runs a slave market there. Pirates bring prisoners there, they're sold to the Horks, and, sir, you get the idea." 
      Adama nodded, and the disgust on his face showed clearly. "We've dealt with them before," he said, recalling the Hork trading caravan that the Fleet had encountered, and also at the RB-33 stopover. 
     "The Horks were deeply involved in the slave trade," Allen recalled. "I forgot just how deep they were. I knew about the market on RB-33, although my old friend Uk-Muk never dealt in slaves. His one point of honor, I guess. But what this guy told us....there's several others elsewhere."
     "Maybe someone will deal with them in the future," Adama commented. "So, what else have our...guests told us about the Chak system?" 
     "It matches with what we've already learned, Commander," Byrne said. "And we now know who one of Scarface's suppliers is, when it comes to his appreciation for the finer things in life." 
    "This fellow?" Pelias asked. 
    "That's right, Sire," Allen said. "From what the Captain has told us, this sicko has a weakness for fine food and liquor, rare art, and so on."
    "Not unusual, Ced," Byrne nodded. "A lot of the officers at Nazi Concentration or Death Camps were the same way. They appreciated the finer things in life, all the while they're indulging in the worst atrocities in Earth's history." 
    "Some things are universal, as you're often pointing out, Captain," Pelias said. "Commander?" 
     "I, for one, would not mind if he gets killed in the raid," Adama said. "However, I do admit, the idea of a Tribunal for this....man is highly satisfying. More in keeping with Colonial legal tradition, certainly." 
     Byrne nodded. "Commander, if he gets himself killed in the raid, that's his problem. If Croft's men do take him alive, he's got a lot of questions to answer. Then he can answer for his crimes."
      "This side of the veil," snorted Pelias.
      Adama nodded himself. Then he gestured to both Wagner and Clemens. Both of them had very strong feelings about the man, and he knew both would rejoice at seeing him dead. With very good reason. "Sergeant, Petty Officer, comments?" 
     The two looked at each other, then Wagner spoke first. "Commander, I've said it before: If I have a shot at this animal, I'm going to take it. If Castor's men-and it's his team that will assault the punishment compound and the interrogation hut-take him alive, I'd gladly testify. And the thought of him, alone on a world with hungry wildlife chasing him, is very good to me. Whether he's dead or alive, makes no difference at all to me. He gets what he deserves." 
     "Petty Officer?" 
     "I'll go along with what the Sergeant said, Commander," Clemens replied. "If the raiding party kills this bastard, I'll use some of my first pay in the Fleet to buy drinks for whoever shot him." She paused. "If he's brought back, he's going to find out what it's like to be locked up. And if his last sight is of an animal with a mouthful of razor-sharp teeth coming at him? Sir, either way, he gets what's coming to him." 
    "Agreed," Adama said. "So, Sergeant, you're the 'law enforcement' specialist here. How do we proceed?" 
     Wagner looked at Captain Byrne, who nodded. "Sir, if you want to notify Sire Solon, go ahead." She saw Adama nod. "Then, sir, his information about the Chak system in general and Ne'Chak in particular checks out. Now, we need to wait until Wilker's people are finished with analyzing this ship's flight recorder and the documents, but I'd say he's helped us." She looked around, and Adama gestured to her to continue. "Sir, this is how I'd recommend: when we're finished with the mission, we hold a hearing, and this guy pleads guilty to drug smuggling. Whatever sentence the court imposes is suspended, and his illegal cargo destroyed. His legal cargo is confiscated in lieu of a fine, and that material gets put to good use in the Fleet. This crew-minus the slave, is released with their ship, the clothes on their backs, and not much else. With one exception: the data discs." 
     "The data discs, Sergeant?" Pelias asked. 
      "I think I know what she's getting at, Sire," Adama said. "These data discs are probably filled with what this regime views as subversive material-whether it's music, literature, video, or whatnot. And it would do more if it was circulating in their society to undermine the regime, or make it a little more uncomfortable." 
      "We call it giving someone a 'poke in the eye,' Commander, but I'd go along with that," Byrne said. 
     "Adding insult to injury, in other words?" Pelias asked. 
     "That's pretty much it, Sire," Wagner said. "Undermining their social order, and nothing they can do about it."
     "Interesting, Sergeant," Adama said. "Captain?" 
     "I'll endorse her suggestion, Commander," said Byrne.      
"I'd go along with that, Commander," Allen said. 
     Adama nodded. "I'm reluctant to make a deal with this kind of boray, but...yes, we'll proceed with your suggestion. I'll inform Sire Solon." 
     "Commander, there's one other thing," Allen said. "Sir, if his black market contacts are anything like those on RB-33, they may not be too happy he's late. Certainly that he's not delivering as promised. When he gets back, he may not have a long lifespan." 
     Clemens turned to him. "What do you mean, sir?" She asked. 
     Allen smiled. "Somebody's not going to like hearing this guy lost his cargo. Which means he's going to have either assassins or bounty hunters-maybe both-coming after him." 
     "Either way, Commander," Adama said. "He will certainly be put out of circulation, permanently. Or a  long time, at least." He looked at the four. "Is there anything else on your end? Because Wilker won't have the flight recorder and other material until tomorrow." 
     Byrne looked around, and his people all shook their heads no. "That's it for now, Commander."
     "Very good. I suggest you all get back to your ships, get something to eat and some rest, and get back to the Agro Ship One in the morning."
     "Yes, sir," Byrne said. 
     "Dismissed." 


      Next morning, Adama came onto the Bridge, after he logged in, found Colonel Tigh waiting with the morning report. "Good morning, Tigh." 
     "Good morning, Commander," Tigh replied. "I have the morning report here." 
      Adama nodded as he took a pad, first from his XO, then from Omega. Everything seemed to be routine. "Very good, Colonel. Let's have it."
     "First, both the Galactica and the BaseShip have begun scanning for Brown Dwarves. The target system is well within scanner range at present, and the scans should be fully complete and correlated in just under thirty-six centars." 
     Adama nodded as he signed the pad with a stylus and handed it back to Omega. "Thank you, Omega. That's good news, Colonel." 
     "Yes, sir," Tigh said. "Also, Doctor Wilker has finished cracking the computer on the smuggler ship. The encrypted files are now open. Lists of clients, suppliers, payments both received and pending, some navigation information and several ships he was on the lookout for." 
     "On the lookout for ships?" Adama asked as Athena handed him a pad . He perused it, then she gave him a stylus. "Thank you, Athena." 
     "Father." She took the pad. "He's on the lookout for ships?"
     "That's what Wilker said."
     "Remember the stories about the Pineans? If they couldn't get their hands on someone who'd crossed them, like a smuggler or a pirate, their fallback option was to call a bounty hunter."  
    "That's it, Athena," Adama said. "He's looking out for people who might be looking for him." 
     Old stories about the Pineans came back to Tigh. "Those people never forgave or forgot if you crossed them. If this fellow has people looking for him..."
     "It does explain that," Adama said. "What else?" 
     "The star charts? They're of this sector, and several others. Going back to RB-33 and adjacent space. Some of the sectors are well off our course, and of no use to us." 
      "Makes sense, if he's making frequent trips there," Adama nodded. "What's illegal everywhere isn't at that location, and he can get whatever he wants. Anything else?" 
     "Major Croft's people are back on the Agro Ship One, Commander," Tigh reported. "Mission rehearsals are proceeding satisfactorily." 
     Adama smiled. "After what I saw yesterday? Tigh, I'd say they're nearly mission-ready." 
    "Yes, Commander," Tigh nodded. "One other thing: the Recycling Ship has gone to work on some of the debris in the system. The wrecked ships and stations, we'll have to leave for the most part, but some of the smaller debris can be worked on in the time we have here." 
     "Very good, Colonel. And the amount of volcanic gas and dust, the radion, and debris in the system gives us a good place to hide. Unless we find a Brown Dwarf, that is." 
     "It does, Commander. And that's it for now." 
     "Thank you, Colonel."

     
     On the Agro Ship, Byrne, Allen, and Clemens were watching the SF Team go through the first rehearsal of the morning. When Croft gave the extraction call, Clemens clicked on the stopchrono. "Twenty-five point zero one." 
     "Great!" Croft yelled. "People, Twenty-five point zero one. Well done. Take a thirty, and come back. If we break twenty-five today, not only do you get the rest of the day off, but I'm buying the first round." The men cheered.
      Hearing that, Sergeant Wagner came over. "Major, they'll hold you up to it. If you guys are like some of the SF units on Earth..."
     "Yes?" 
     "They'll drink until your wallet's empty." 
     Croft smiled. "Like I said: the first round." 
     Byrne nodded. "The SEALS would be fitting in with you guys, and the other way around."
     "So you've said," Croft said. "I'd like to talk with those guys." 
     While Byrne and Croft were talking, Clemens was going over her pad. Something came back to her. "Captain, Major," she said. "Something you need to know." 
     "What is it?" Byrne asked. 
     She nodded. "Sir, please come with me." She led Byrne, Allen, Croft, and Wagner back into the simulated prison compound. "Right here: the kitchen." 
     "The kitchen?" Wagner asked. 
     "Yeah," Clemens said. "Sorry, sir," she turned to Byrne. "This just came back." 
      "Understood," Byrne nodded. "You're trying to forget some things, and some you can't forget." 
      Clemens nodded back. "Yes, sir. Anyway, I've told you about how some people would sneak from barracks to barracks so they could spend some...private time with friends, right?" 
     Byrne, Allen, Croft, and Wagner nodded. "That you did," Croft said. 
     "Well, sir," she went on. "The kitchen, too. Some would sneak in to try and steal food. Either for themselves or their friends. If they got caught, it was ten days in the punishment area," 
     Croft looked at her. "So you think there might be another guard in the compound?" 
     "Knowing what we know about Scarface?" Wagner asked. She looked at Clemens, then Captain Byrne. "I wouldn't be surprised if he did. Put bars on the kitchen windows, and put a guard on the door at night." 
     "An added challenge," Croft said. He clicked on his pad, and another computer-simulated guard appeared, and the windows sprouted bars. "Let's see how that changes things." 
     Seeing that, Wagner had an idea. "Major, I've got an idea."
    "Sergeant?" Byrne asked. 
    "Once we cut the wire and are in, we only use suppressed weapons inside the compound. Take the roving guards out, and take out the guards on the prison barracks and the kitchen. Only when the barracks are secure does the general raid start." 
     "What do you think, Major?" Allen asked. 
      Croft looked at Wagner, then he grinned. "I like it. We'll do both on the next go-around."
     "That grin," said Byrne. "Why do I suspect..."
      "Yeah," said Croft, making another adjustment to the hologram. "Mud!"

     Later that day, Commander Adama, Pelias, and Xaviar checked in at the Desert Dome, to see the team apparently in the final stages of mission prep, and they also noticed Captain Byrne and Commander Allen watching and taking notes on pads, while Petty Officer Clemens was timing the mission. Then Major Croft gave the extraction call, and she stopped. 
     "Well?" Croft asked. 
     The Petty Officer grinned. "Twenty-five even." 
      All right!" Croft yelled. "People, get cleaned up. The shuttle for Galactica leaves in a centar, and I'm buying the first round!" 
     Hearing that, the men cheered. 
      "Be ready to pick up again, 0800 tomorrow morning. That's it, people!" Croft said, and the troopers were all smiles. Then Castor spotted Commander Adama. "Commander on the deck!" 
      "As you were, all of you," Adama said. "I see you've hit your designated time, Major." 
     "Yes, sir!" Croft said. "First for the day." 
     "First ever," Wagner said as she came and picked up a bottle of water. "We've been close before, but this is a first."
      "I see," Xavair said, grinning himself, as he watched the troopers head for the hatch. "And any problems?" 
     "Sire, the big problem, as we see it, are the guards in the towers, and the roving guards inside the prison compound proper," Croft said. "Please follow me, and we'll walk you through." 
     Nodding, Adama and the two councilmen followed Croft and the Earthers into the simulated compound. "Impressive, Major," Pelias said. "Almost like being there."
    "Yes, Sire. A perfect melding of Zohrloch and Colonial technologies, Commander. Beats the old days, when we had to actually use pre-fab settings. Totally real." 
      "For me, it sure is," Clemens said. "I get to a barracks door and think the next thing I'll see are my friends." 
     "It won't be long, Petty Officer," Adama said. "Then you will be seeing them."
     "How much longer, Commander?" Allen asked. "Four days, isn't it?" 
      "It is," Adama nodded. "The deep scans to search for a brown dwarf are underway right now. That will take another thirty Centars. Then we'll have our final planning and mission briefing. Your men will need a day to rest up and get ready, then we'll launch." 
     "Four days " Clemens whispered. "Four more days...." 
     "And your friends will be out of there, and safely aboard the Galactica," Pelias said. 
     "I'm looking forward to it, sire," she replied. 
     "Why don't you show us around, Petty Officer?" Adama said.
     She nodded, and led the party into the compound, pointing out the barracks for the men, the women, and the couples. "There should be four children by now, Commander," Clemens said. 
     "Bastards," Wagner hissed, and Bryne nodded. 
     "There's that many couples, correct?" Xavaiar asked. 
     "At least, Sire," Clemens said. "When I left, anyway." She then pointed out the barracks with the clinic, storage space, and the theater. "If Anna-that's the nurse-has a patient in the clinic, she'll be there. And she runs the nursery for the children while the mothers are working." 
      "It's in the same building?" Croft asked. 
      "It is, Major," Clemens said. "But at the time you're planning to hit them, the kids will be with their parents. If, though, Anna has a patient in the clinic-someone who's sick or got hurt working, she will be there. They may just lock her in at night, or they may post a guard." 
     "If they're guarding the other buildings with prisoners-or like the Kitchen, to keep prisoners out, they'd have one here. I would," Byrne said. 
     Croft nodded, then worked his pad. Beep. A computer-simulated guard appeared on the clinic's door. 
     "Another complication, but one that should be easily dealt with." 
     "The doors aren't alarm rigged?" Xaviar asked. 
     "No, Sire," Clemens said. "No one's escaped, and they don't think there's any reason to rig the doors."
     "Their hubris again, Sire," Adama nodded. "A foolish oversight." He turned to Croft. "Major, I know you'd like to release your men for the evening, but we'd like to see a rehearsal." 
     Croft nodded, then went and rounded up his troopers. When the full Team was assembled, Adama addressed them. 
    "I know you don't like pep talks, but I thought I'd say a few words. The mission you are training for will not only liberate some of our Earth brothers and sisters, but will help bring our two societies closer together. Most of them are in a survival mode, but, as Petty Officer Clemens said, some have hope that someone will eventually come for them. You are that someone. And in four days, you will deliver them from that pit, and start them on the journey with us, that one day, God willing, will lead them home." Adam paused, then continued. "Now, I know the Major wanted to release you for the rest of the day, and the first round at the Officer's Club was going to be on him." And there were some nods at that. "The Councilmen and I, though, would like to see you in a rehearsal. In that case, once it's finished, I will be buying the first round for you." 
     There was quite a buzz from the troopers, and one of the troopers in Team One, Nestor, said, "If the Commander's buying, I'm drinking." 
     "If anyone's buying, you're drinking, Nestor," Alic, Team One's Combat Medtech, said. 
     "Okay, People!" Croft yelled. "Gear up, and let's show the Commander how we're doing this. Get ready to go in ten Centons. Let's move!" 
       As the troopers went to gear up, Wagner came over to Croft. "Major, by the time we're fully ready..."
     "Sergeant?" 
     "We'll be doing this in our sleep." 
     Croft grinned. "That's the idea." He saw her smile. "Sergeant?"
     "Just remembering a saying from home. A famous General, long ago. 'You can only sleep safely when your enemy's sleep is eternal.' "
      "I want that engraved in bronze, on my office wall!" laughed Croft, and moved towards his men.


     The next morning, after discussing with Sire Pelias his proposal to represent the Earthers in the Fleet, until some other arrangements could be made, Adama went to Galactica's Bridge. After he logged in, Colonel Tigh came over. 
     "Good morning, Commander, the morning Sitrep is ready," said Tigh,
     "Good morning, Colonel," Adama nodded as he took a pad and stylus from Omega. "What do you have this morning?"
     "The deep scans are continuing, Commander," Tigh reported. "They should be finished sometime tonight, and we, that is, Command Centurion Moray and I, should have results for you tomorrow afternoon, at the latest, after the material is collated and analyzed." 
      "Good work, Colonel," Adama said, signing the pad with the stylus and giving it back to Omega.. "Pass that on to Moray, if you please."
      "Of course, Commander. The Recycling Ship should be finished by the time the mission launches. There's enough material here that would keep scavengers busy for yahrens," said Tigh. 
       "Any estimates as to their technology level?" Adama asked as he took a pad from Athena. He scanned it, then signed it. "Thank you, Athena."
     "Father," she replied. 
     "Doctor Wilker estimates that, based on the wreckage found, they were comparable technologically to that of Terra. Early Sixth Millennium." Tigh said. "Before their use of thermonuclear weapons on themselves. There are survivors, however. Scans show isolated pockets of life forms, on all three major continents. Outside the irradiated areas." 
      Adama nodded. "I see. That's something, anyway. Colonel, something occurred to me. We've found that the Risik came into the sector and found this race having already blown themselves up, correct?" 
     "Doctor Wilker did find that information, Commander," Tigh reminded his CO. 
      Adama looked at the plot board, then turned to his XO. "Have him go over and double-check. Something doesn't feel right." 
     "You think the Risik had something to do with this?' Tigh asked.
      "Knowing what we do know about them already?" Adama replied. "It wouldn't surprise me at all. Do I think they attacked this system? No. But having something to do with this devastation? Possibly, Colonel." 
     "Understood, Commander. I'll get to him straight away." 
     "Good, Colonel. And Major Croft?"
     "His rehearsals have resumed and are proceeding. You saw one yesterday?" 
     "I did, Tigh. They're almost ready for the mission. As Captain Byrne would say, 'totally pumped'. We'll have our final mission planning and briefings the day after tomorrow. Because we'll need a day to rest up and get ready. Three days and counting before launch," Adama reminded his XO. 
    "Yes, Commander. Also, Master Chief Varica reports the smuggler ship has been fully scanned and searched. One final compartment full of drugs has been found, and most of it tests as Irel," Tigh said. "Also, something chemically similar to that garbage Elysium, and what look like legit pharmaceuticals, among the rest."
     "No doubt, with all taxes paid," smiled Adama.
     "Naturally," smiled Tigh. "Just like the pharmaceuticals black market, back home, or the one we cleaned up on the Maxidex, sir. Apart from that, the only other contraband items found were some more data discs." 
     Adama smiled. "Tigh, that's all he's getting out of this cruise. Letting him have those means that material will circulate in this sector, much to the disgust of the Risik, and it helps to undermines the regime, even if only a little." 
     Tigh grinned. "It does that, Commander." 
    "All right, is there anything else at the moment?" 
     "Not at this time, Commander," the Exec nodded. 
     "Very good, Colonel." 


     Later, Adama had a meeting with Sire Solon. "Sire," Adama said as the Chief Opposer came into his office. 
    "Commander," Solon replied. "I have the revised indictment ready against the commandant of this camp, and one drafted for the alien commander." He handed the two documents to Adama. 
     "Thank you, Sire,' Adama said. He read the documents, slowly and carefully. "Sire, you do realize that with the Commandant, there may be additional witnesses in a few days?" 
    "I have heard rumors of some kind of military operation, Commander, planned against this camp," Solon replied. 
     Adama nodded. "It's more than rumor, Sire." He then spoke for a few centons, briefing Solon on the upcoming mission. "Sire, for the moment, this information does not leave this room." 
    "I quite understand, Commander," Solon said. "And if this, this, Tsernavia falls into our custody, a Tribunal would not take long to prepare." 
    "Even with fifty or more additional witnesses?" Adama asked. 
    "Commander, we need not have that many. The number need only be a dozen or so, and I presume that many of them would want to testify?" 
    "Captain Byrne and Sergeant Wagner are sure of it, Sire," said Adama. "They believe that there will be enough who would want to tell their stories, whether it's for a Tribunal or to.....IFB. Both of them, however, feel that it is up to the released prisoners to decide. And no one else should make that decision." He looked at his Chief Opposer. "And I agree with that argument. We all have that right, under our Colonial Charter of Liberties, and I feel we must extend that to our fellow Humans." 
     "That is...understandable, Commander," Solon nodded. "And I agree. Also, even if there are no others willing to testify, there is more than enough in the Sergeant's case to hold a Tribunal, and to convict." 
     "And the alien Commander?" 
     "I have the material from Doctor Wilker's examination of his computer, and a deposition from Petty Officer Clemens, Commander. There's more than enough to convict, should a Tribunal be held." 
    "The decision to proceed is Captain Byrne's, correct?" Adama asked. 
     "Yes, Commander, upon your concurrence, as Chief Magistrate of the Colonial Nation. I will discuss this with him later today," Solon replied. 
     "Very good, Sire," Adama said. "There's one other thing that will come up in the course of this mission." 
     "Commander?" 
     "Sire, there are children in that camp. Born into captivity. Slaves. They are all infants, according to the Petty Officer's information, but still, Human beings," said Adama. "I would like to know if there are any statutes under Colonial Law that would cover something like this. Or, could we use the Council Resolution recognizing Captain Byrne's daughter as a dual national as a basis for how to proceed?" 
     "I see..." Solon said. 
     "And there may be pregnant women rescued as well," Adama noted. "Of course, their slave status ends, once they step aboard a Colonial vessel. But, they may also want their children, when born, to be recognized as citizens of their home countries on Earth, as well as being Colonial." 
     "Naturally. Hmm..." Solon nodded. "I will consult with Sire Memnon on this, Commander, and check the Colonial Code for anything resembling this situation. If a new Council Resolution on this is needed, I will so advise you." 
     "Thank you, Sire." 


     Aboard the Agro Ship One, Croft's Team was wrapping up another exercise. He gave the extraction call, and when the simulated shuttle landed, Petty Officer Clemens hit the stopchrono. "Time." 
     "What'd we do?" Croft asked. 
      She grinned, first to Captain Byrne, then to the Major. "Twenty-four point nine-one." 
     Croft let out a yell. "Best so far, People! This time, I'm buying!," and his men cheered. "That's it for today. If we beat twenty-five tomorrow morning, we're mission-ready." 
     The troopers grinned, as they gathered up their gear. It was still a couple centars until the shuttle to Galactica arrived. While they were heading for the turbowash, Croft and Sergeant Wagner went over to where Byrne, Allen, and Clemens were standing. The two officers had their pads, and had been taking notes. 
     "Major," Byrne said. "I may not have been a SEAL, but it looks to me like you're mission-ready." 
      "I think we are," Croft nodded. "I'd like another half-day, but if we had to go tomorrow? We're ready." 
     "Sergeant?" Byrne asked. "First time you've done any kind of SF work. Your thoughts?" 
     "Personally, if we had to move this up and go tomorrow? I'm more than ready." Wagner replied. 
     "Tomorrow's L-minus two," Allen reminded everyone. "And there's something else." 
     "Sir?" Wagner asked. 
      "I had a video chat with Sire Solon," Byrne said. "The bottom line? He's got an indictment ready against Scarface, and one ready against Lemeshik." He turned to Clemens."That means, Petty Officer, you get your day in court." 
     Clemens thought for a moment. "Sir, that's great. Just say the word, and I'll be there." 
     "You signed off on filing charges?" Croft asked. 
     "Not yet, but after the mission is what I told Solon," Byrne said. "If we don't get Scarface, I want it put out for the record as to what happened in that camp, and what happened aboard that ship." 
     "Sir," Clemens said. "Just tell me when."
      "It'll be after the mission, but then you, and some of your friends, the ones that he, uh....inspected, for want of a better term, testify. Then he's looking at rediscovering any survival training he may have had." 
     Clemens thought again. The chance at facing her captor in court, and the look on his face when she testified? "Sir, it'll be a pleasure. And the thought of him, stuck on a planet with a lot of angry wildlife? He's not going to last long." 
    "That's the idea," Croft pointed out. "Stick him on a desert world and see how long he lasts." 
     "Jungle's better," Wagner said. "The plant life can help make sure his lifespan's a short one." 


     The next morning, Adama was in his office, having had the morning sitrep, and going over some Council business with Sire Pelias. A Council session would be held in the afternoon, to inform them of the operation, but not gain approval, since he was acting in his capacity as Fleet Commander, and thus no approval was needed. Then the chime at the door to his office came, and he said, "Enter." 
     Doctor Wilker came into Adama's office. "Commander." 
    "Doctor," Adama nodded. "What do you have for me this morning?" 
     "Commander," the scientist said, handing some printouts to Adama. "We've gone over the Risik computers again, looking for any information on this system. Nothing other than the story we've already learned." 
     "You are certain, Doctor?" 
     "As best we can be, Commander," Wilker replied. "This may be the story that's put out for public consumption, as well as to those in the military who are not cleared." 
     "They could be telling the truth," Adama nodded. "But still...it's all too convenient. A spacefaring race in the sector they've fled to, and it's at least as comparable to them, technologically. And a potential threat." 
    "I get what' you're saying, Commander," said Wilker. "Hummer thinks he knows how it could have been done, if the Risik were somehow involved." 
    "What's his theory?" 
     "He's of the opinion that if the Risik used some of their scout ships-the ones we found on the derelict, Commander-"
     "Yes, those discus-shaped ones. Which they used to abduct Humans from Earth," Adama recalled. "Please continue, Doctor." 
     "Yes, Commander," Wilker said. "Hummer thinks that if they used these scout ships to mimic the speed and trajectory of ballistic missiles on early-warning sensors, what Captain Byrne calls BMEWS: Ballistic Missile Early Warning System, one side might think themselves under attack, and respond." 
     Adama knew what had likely happened next. "And they launch. With the other side, not knowing what's happening, seeing the launch and retaliates, and there's at least one, if not several, exchanges of nuclear weapons. And the ships in orbit get their own orders, and start engaging each other." 
     "That is Hummer's guess as well, Commander," said Wilker. "It's only a theory, until we find more data,which is a long shot, to be sure, But his theory does fit the facts based on what we've seen, so far." 
      "And the ships?" 
     "Chief Twilly has inspected a couple of the wrecks, Commander," Wilker nodded. "Both are of different designs, but the same size. Both are of the same size as the Eastern Alliance Destroyer, or the Derelict, but are at a technical level comparable to the Alliance and the Risik." 
     "Which explains why the Risik may have considered this race as a threat," Adama reminded the scientist. "And once the radion and bacterial agents have dissipated, they can come in and subjugate the survivors with a minimum of effort." 
     "Yes, Commander. Again it's only a theory, but a plausible one, based on what we know of them." 
     "All right. There's one more question, Doctor," Adama said. "Chances of survivors fleeing the world?"
     "I would rate it as possible, Commander," Wilker replied. "Twilly notes that their pre-FTL drive is comparable to that of both the Alliance, and the Nationalists, in terms of speed and range, and if survivors did flee...."
    "I see..." Adama nodded. Another Exodus? He shook his head at that. The Risik had fled their own homeworld, and the first thing they do when they arrive in their new sector is provoke nuclear war on a world they consider a threat to them. A cheap, but effective way of removing a potential rival, and doing so without firing a shot. "Thank you, Doctor," 
      "Commander," Wilker gave a nod, then went back to his spaces. 
      Adama thought for a centon. He'd have to discuss this with Tigh, and Nizaka. He pressed his office Telecom. "Bridge, Commander Adama," 
     "Omega here, Commander." the voice on the Telecom said. 
     "Omega, have Colonel Tigh and Academician Sarah report to my quarters, please."
     "Right away, Sir." 
      While he waited for them to arrive, he made a note on his pad. Launch minus two.


     Aboard Agro Ship One, Byrne, Allen, and Clemens were watching another assault exercise. Once Major Croft gave the extraction signal, and the first simulated shuttle landed, she stopped the chrono.
     "Time."
     "What have we got?" Croft asked. 
     Clemens grinned. "Twenty-four point nine-four." 
     Croft turned to his men. "That's it, people! We are now mission-ready." The troopers cheered, then he motioned for them to gather around. "I know you guys all need some rest, and then tomorrow's busy with our final mission prep, but there's a few things I want to emphasize." He called up a mini-holo, of the encampment. "First: this is for Keller and Varro: you guys need to silence the guards in the towers, and do it silently." He "killed" the guards in question. "Also, if you can get a shot at roving guards, take it." 
     Both marksmen nodded. "Will do, Major," Keller said, and Varro nodded again. 
     "Second, and this is for Team One: we used suppressed weapons only inside the actual prison compound. We secure the compound before the general raid starts, and then we hit them with the finesse of a tornadic storm." 
     "Major, what about taking any of the guards or officers alive?" Lieutenant Stark, Team Two's leader, asked. 
      "Good question. Said it before, but I'll repeat: if you can take Scarface alive, fine. But don't go out of your way to do it, and don't take any unnecessary chances. If you can't get him alive, take him out. Just make sure there's enough for Sergeant Wagner to ID the body." Croft saw his troopers nod. "If you can take a VIP, that'd be good as well. Again, no unnecessary risks. If you can't....take them out." He saw heads nod. Then Croft gestured to Wagner. "Sergeant?" 
     "I'd like to repeat what the Major said, and add this: those of you hitting the HQ building?" She saw Stark nod, as well as the other Team Two troopers. "Grab any and all documents, computers, data discs, external storage devices, anything not nailed down in the offices. That will help us build a picture of what went on in that camp."
     "You got it, Sergeant," Stark replied. "And we'll set a charge or two inside the HQ building. They'll have no idea if anything was taken."
      "Good idea, Lieutenant," Croft said. "Team One, once the prisoners have been extracted? We do the same with the prison buildings." He saw his troopers nod again. "Now, extraction: When the call is made, first on are the children and their mothers, pregnant women, any wounded or sick prisoners, wounded troopers, then the rest of the prisoners. Sergeant, you go with them." 
     Wagner nodded. 
     "Alic? You go with them as well,." He saw Team One's Medtech nod. "Some of Team One will go with you, while the rest of us go on the second shuttle," Croft finished. "Anything else?" 
     "What about these trackers we're being issued?" Kuntz asked. 
     "Good question. No one gets left behind, alive or dead. If we have to, we'll use that transport device and beam you out-literally," Croft replied. 
     "Uh, sir? Just to know...why not use the transport device to insert us? Less chance of discovery, that way."
     "We considered it. But all the scanners and mong they have in the area... the techs aren't a hundred percent sure it won't bollix up the machine, somehow, given the short distances. We don't want to take the chance, and we'll need to take out all their electronic warfare equipment. After that, the airwaves should be clear. That answer your question? 
     "Yes, sir," Kuntz said. 
     "Any other questions?" Croft asked. There weren't any. "All right! You guys get the rest of the day off. Rest up, because tomorrow's L-minus one. Mission briefings and prep will take most of the day, so enjoy what time you've got today. That's it." 
      As the troopers headed off to get cleaned up and wait for the shuttle back to Galactica, Croft came over to Byrne, Allen, and Clemens. "Major," Byrne said. "You're definitely mission-ready. I've watched SEALS prep. You'd do 'em proud." 
     "That we are, Captain, and thank you." Croft nodded as he picked up a bottle of water and then took a swig. "These people....they'll never know what hit them." 
     Wagner agreed. "Suits me just fine, sir," she said. "Like I said earlier: if we take Scarface alive, fine. He finds out what it's like to be locked up, and then he's marooned. If not....his problem." 
    "I'll go along with that," said Clemens. "Major, if one of your guys shoots him? I'll buy the shooter a couple of drinks." 
    "The guys will take you up on that," Croft grinned. 
     "And if you do bring him in? He'll see what it's like to be a prisoner. Then he has to learn how to make a homemade spear." 
     "I'll drink to that," Allen said. 
     "So will the rest of us," Byrne noted. Then his PDA buzzed. "Well, well." 
     "What is it, Kev?" 
     "Commander Adama wants us on Galactica in two centars." He looked at Allen. "You, me, the Sergeant, and the Petty Officer. Dress uniforms." 
     "For what? Uh, sir?" Clemens asked. 
     "Simple. There's a council meeting at 1500. The Commander wants us there to answer any questions about the mission. And he wants them to hear your story, Petty Officer." 
     Clemens gulped. "I'll do my best, sir. Second time I've had to get up in front of brass. And the first one was just a few days ago." 
     "Just play it the same way you did at that briefing, and you'll be fine," Bryne said. "Just be glad those two loony councilmen are facing lizards right now." 
     "There is that, sir," Clemens smiled. 
     "Major?" Byrne asked. "We'll see you at the O-Club on Galactica when we're finished."
     "I'll be waiting," Croft grinned. 


     That afternoon, the four Earthers waited outside the Council chamber, in their dress uniform. The two naval officers were in their dress blues, Wagner in her dress blue AF uniform, and for the first time in a very long while, Petty Officer Clemens was in her brand new Navy enlisted dress blues.
     "God, I'm a nervous wreck," she said. 
     "Take it easy," Byrne said. "Just remember how it was when you told your story at that briefing, and you'll be fine." 
      "If you say so, sir," Clemens said. "But when we get out of here, I'm going to want a beer or two at least. I'm just nervous around big shots." 
      "Just like we did, remember, Sergeant?" 
      "When I told my story to the Council for the first time?" Wagner asked. Seeing Byrne nod, she said, "I had three, if I remember right,"
     "Four," Allen said. "Given how harsh those two future renegades were towards you, I would've done the same." 
     Then Sire Pelias and Siress Tinia came. "I see Commander Adama wanted you here," Pelias said. "You won't have to worry like Captain Byrne or Sergeant Wagner did when they told their stories," the young Sire assured Clemens. "The two new members are much more reasonable and polite than their.....predecessors." 
     "If you say so, Sire," Byrne said. 
      "Clement and Shanbour are much more accommodating than Elglaberus and Galerius were," Tinia said. "They had no connection to that unpleasantness, and were genuinely appalled by their behavior. You'll be fine." 
     "I will, Siress," Clemens replied. "But right now? I'm a nervous wreck."
     "Once it's over," Sire Xaviar said as he came over to the group. "A stiff drink or two will settle your nerves." 
     "We've already decided on that, Sire," Byrne said, and everyone laughed. 
      Then the door to the chamber opened, and the council members filed in to take their seats, while the Earthers sat in the public gallery. When Commander Adama arrived, everyone stood, and he motioned for them to take their seats as he sat down. He gaveled the meeting to order, and began. 
     "This meeting is called to order, and welcome. I realize this is not our regularly scheduled meeting, however, I felt it necessary to inform you as to why we have diverted from our course to Earth, and of a military operation due to take place in the coming days. I trust you are all familiar with the aliens we know as the Abductors, due to the discovery of Sergeant Lauren Wagner on the Derelict vessel?" When he saw heads nod, including the two new members, Clement and Shanbour, he continued. "We have discovered a wrecked craft from that same race, and have also had encounters with two of their warships. One has been captured, and one destroyed. In the course of the capture, we rescued another Earther, who was being held on the ship as the Captain's personal slave, and she has informed us of a slave camp on a system which is now in close proximity to us, where at least fifty more people, all abducted from Earth, are held, and are being not only used as slave labor in a camp, but are also being forced to have children." 
     Byrne looked at the council members. Those in the know, like Pelias, Tinia, Xaviar, and even Lydia, were calm, but the others were clearly shocked. 
    Sire Hanlon, one of the members of the Council who had been appointed by Adama after the Holocaust, spoke up. "Commander, this, this...this is quite vile. On a par with some of the races in our home quadrant. How?" 
     "The liberated hostage is going to share her story with us in a few moments, Sire," Adama pointed out. "I trust you have all had lunch? Because you will want to hold onto the contents of your stomachs after she is finished." 
     Sire Clement, one of the two newest members appointed after the Il Fadim affair, asked, "What are your plans, Commander?" 
    "Sire, if you'll permit me to continue," Adama replied. Seeing Clement nod, he went on. "As a result of her information, as well as interrogations of captured alien officers, examination of the captured ship's computers, and a reconnaissance mission to the system in question, a rescue operation is being planned as we speak, and in two days, that mission will be launched." 
     Siress Eudoxia, another of Adama's original appointees, asked, "A 'punitive expedition', in other words, Commander?" 
     Adama nodded. "That is correct, Siress. However, we will go further than simply rescuing the captives. That system's military capabilities will be destroyed, and their shipyards, both orbital and planetside, will be eliminated as well. It will set their plans back considerably, as the alien prisoners have indicated that returning to Earth, which they claim as theirs by right, is a long-term goal of theirs. Destroying this system's military capabilities also ensures that they will not be subjugating any nearby non-spacefaring races in the near term as well." 
     "It also buys us some extra security from these people," Xavair pointed out. 
     "It does that, Sire," Adama said. "Now, I am taking this step in my capacity as Fleet Commander, and Commander in Chief of the Colonial Armed Forces. I feel I am justified in doing this, by reason of the so-called Tyrous Statute, which gives both military and civilian Colonial law enforcement organizations the right to intervene, rescue, and prosecute the liberation of Humans, who have been captured and or enslaved, by anyone, anywhere, even those who are not from our Colonies directly. According to Sire Solon and various legal experts, we are fully within the law here. However, I felt it best that you be informed of this operation, since it may well affect our future, and is of the very deepest moment. Now, before we hear from the rescued prisoner, does anyone have any other comments?" 
      A hand shot up. It was Sire Shanbour, the other new member. "Commander, if I may?" 
     "Sire," Adama politely nodded. He knew that Shanbour had come out of, oddly enough, a monastery, before the Holocaust, and not the military.
     "Commander, while I do not dispute the need to rescue our Earth brethren, can we not achieve the same goal via diplomacy?" 
     "Commander, I may be able to answer our colleague's question," Tinia nodded. 
     "By all means, Siress," Adama said. "Please do." 
     "Shanbour, I would love to solve this problem without any additional loss of life. However, we've discovered that the aliens consider the Humans of Earth to be a race that is morally, spiritually, and technologically inferior to them, and can be treated in any manner the aliens see fit. They have been so taught since birth, and it is an official policy of their government. The alien first officer indicated that their government would consider us to be the same as those from Earth, and would reject any diplomatic approach out of hand." 
     "Their diplomats come from the 'We demand, you obey,' school, I take it?" Shanbour replied. 
     "Essentially, yes," Tinia said. "Or, 'What's ours is ours, and what's yours is negotiable,' to put it politely. Any approach to them is a waste of time, and runs the risk of repeating the Eastern Alliance affair, or the Ziklagi experience. Neither of which does us any good." 
      "I see..." Shanbour nodded. "I understand now, Commander." 
      "Thank you, Sire," Adama said. "Now, I think it is best we hear from someone who has been in that camp. She is a member of the same military force on Earth as Captain Byrne, though she is not an officer. Please be aware that she is only barely a sectan out of a living nightmare as the alien captain's personal slave and.....well, I'm sure you all get the picture, and has endured both physical torture and slave labor in the camp. If there are questions that she does not want to answer, it is because there are things that she would rather not discuss with anyone right now." Heads nodded after that. "So," Adama nodded to the public gallery. "I would like to present Petty Officer Third Class Jessica Clemens, United States Navy." 
      Jessica gulped, then saw Byrne and Allen give her a thumbs-up, and Lauren squeezed her hand. 
     "Remember how you did at that first briefing, and you'll do fine. Go get 'em, girl." 
      Jessica nodded, then went forward. "Commander," she nodded. 
     "Please, Petty Officer," Adama gestured. "I'm sure the Council would like to hear your story." 
      She gulped again, then she started. Her night out with her friend Denise, the light in the sky approaching their car, waking up and being examined on the alien ship, being placed in stasis, all the way to her time on Lemeshik's ship as his slave and sex toy. "And that's it, Commander. Then, your people came along, and I'm free." 
     "Any questions?" Adama asked the council members. "Sire Shanbour?" He noted Shanbour raise his hand. 
     "Petty Officer, how are the aliens, for want of a better term, encouraging the women to have children?" 
     "Sire," she replied, though she clearly found the topic distasteful. "It's pretty simple: the women in these relationships get easier work assignments, they get full meals while pregnant, and not only are they excused from work a few days before the baby is due, but for about thirty days afterwards. And one of the prisoners, who is a military nurse back home, runs a small nursery for the babies while the mothers are working." 
     "They are being used as breeding stock, in other words, Shanbour," Xaviar noted. "Slaves, being used to breed more slaves. The only way to stop it is to hit the camp and free those people." 
      Heads nodded at that. "Do you understand, Sire?" Adama asked, and Shanbour nodded yes. "Are there any other questions?" He saw Euxdoxia nod. "Siress?" 
     "How are your fellow prisoners enduring, Petty Officer?" 
     "Siress, some have resigned themselves to living the rest of their lives there. Most are in survival mode, living day-to-day. One...tried to kill herself, but her friends managed to save her. The rest? They haven't given up hope that someone will come for them." Clemens said. "They really have no idea just how far from home they truly are."
     "And someone will, Eudoxia," Xaviar added. "In two days, the Lords willing, they will be liberated, and will be joining us on our journey, only they will be on their way home." 
     "Quite so," Pelias added. 
     "Are there any more questions?" Adama asked. There weren't any. A marked difference, he knew, from when Galerius and Elglaberus had been on the Council. Their treatment of the other Earthers, nor the Zohrlochs before them, had not been pleasant, and the difference between they and their successors was like night and day. "Thank you, Petty Officer," Adama said. 
      Clemens came to attention. "Commander," she replied, then went back to the gallery. 
     "Now, before we adjourn, there are two additional items that may come up as a result of this operation. First, the rescued children. They are all infants, as you have heard, but are still Human beings nonetheless. Sire Solon and Sire Memnon are currently checking the law, to see if the Council Resolution recognizing Captain Byrne's daughter as a dual national can be used as a way forward, or if there are other statutes that can best cover their situation. The second issue is that there may be pregnant women rescued, and when they give birth, they may want their children recognized as dual nationals. However, these are matters to be discussed after the mission has concluded, and we are clear of Risik space."
     Heads nodded at that. "I agree, Commander," Hanlon said. 
    "Is there anything further?" Adama asked. Heads shook no, but Eudoxia raised her hand. "Siress?" 
      "Commander, I would like to wish you, and the military, good luck in the coming mission. I am sure all of us echo that sentiment." 
      "Thank you, Siress," Adama replied. "If there's nothing else, we're adjourned." He hit his gavel, then everyone got up to leave.

     
     As Captain Byrne, Allen, and Wagner shook hands with Petty Officer Clemens and were offering congratulations on her performance, Siress Lydia came over. "Captain?' 
     "Siress," Byrne replied, with no nod of respect, and his tone of voice totally flat.
     "Captain, I'd like to discuss something with you," she said. 
     "Later, Siress. Right now, I'm pretty busy," he replied. "After the mission." 
     Something's bothering him, she thought. He's never been like this before. Maybe it's because of the mission. Of course, you don't know him all that well. She gave a polite smile and nod, then left the chamber. 
     "What was that all about?" Allen wondered aloud. 
     "I was seeing her, off and on," Byrne said. "Then I found something out."
     "Sir?" Wagner asked. 
     Hummer was asked to help with an unrelated investigation: seems they've got their own hackers. Anyway, one of the databases they hacked into was IFB's tipster line. He found the message telling IFB about the Petty Officer." 
     "And let me guess: it came from her," Wagner finished. "Great."
     "Not," Byrne nodded. "She's up to some kind of game, and trying to use us somehow. Just like back home. And this just reinforces my loathing of politics and politicians." 
      Allen looked at him, then nodded back. "You ain't the only one, Kev." while the two women just shook their heads. 
     "Well, when we get the prisoners back? Petty Officer, tell them not to have any dealings with Lydia. Unless it's at any kind of reception or other official function. Tell them she's poison. Just steer clear of her." 
     "Yes, sir." Clemens replied. 
     "Enough of that: let's head to the O-Club. And I'm buying." 
     "Sir," Wagner grinned. "If you're buying, lead the way." 
      As they left the Council Chamber, Sire Pelias was waiting outside. "Captain," Pelias nodded. 
    "Sire," Byrne said, shaking his hand. "So, how did she do?" 
     Pelias looked at Clemens. "Very well, Petty Officer. There are a lot of people who've had to give briefings or other presentations to the Council, and they've been nervous like a daggit on a sunspot. You've outshone them." 
     "Thank you, Sire," Clemens said. Whatever that meant. "I imagine some of my friends, when we get them out, will want to talk. And plenty." 
     "Perhaps in a less formal setting," said Pelias. "It would make them more comfortable." 
     "I'll let Commander Adama know," Byrne nodded. "Tomorrow, when we brief for the mission." 
     "Of course," the Sire said. "From what I've heard and seen of your preparations, you all need that drink Xaviar mentioned." 
     Byrne grinned. "Just where we're headed, Sire."
     After Pelias took his leave, the four headed to the Officers' Club, and when they got there, they saw their usual Colonial friends at a table, and they waved. Waving back, Byrne and the other three went to the Bar, and Freeman was there, as usual. "Freeman, four beers, on my tab." 
     "Comin' right at ya, Captain," Freeman said. He drew the beers, and they took their glasses. "First time I've seen all of ya in your fancy uniforms." 
     Byrne nodded. "We had to be at some Council meeting. They wanted to hear from Petty Officer Clemens." 
     "Ah," the ex-Proetus Prisoner nodded understanding. "Nervous?" 
     "Very," Clemens replied. 
     "Oh, yah, I would, believe me," Freeman said. "I was, after we was rescued from Proteus, and had to debrief before the Commander 'hisself. So, this mission I keep hearing about?' 
     Wagner looked at the barkeep, then at Byrne. "Does he have this whole place wired for sound?" 
    "No," Allen said. "He's just a good barkeep. People blab when they've had more drinks than they should." 
    Freeman grinned. "Aye, 'tis truth. You'd be surprised what a good barkeep can pick up." 
     Byrne nodded, then when he glanced and saw Apollo wave them over to a table where he, Sheba, Starbuck, Boomer, and both Sargamesh and Korl were, he led the Earthers over and they all sat down. "Apollo."
     The Galactica's Strike Leader nodded. "Captain," Apollo said. "Looks like you all had to dress up." 
     All four Earthers grinned. "You could say that," Allen said. "Commander Adama wanted us to be at a Council meeting. He told them of the mission, and the Petty Officer told her story." 
     "In every detail," Wagner added. She looked at her cabin mate and new friend. "But she did better than a lot of people, Pelias said." 
     "I'm just glad it's over." Clemens said. "One more day, then...." 
     "Then we get your friends out of that pit," nodded Sheba. "They'll be glad to see you."
     "And me, them," Clemens said with pride. "I'm just hoping that Ron made it this far." 
     "Who's Ron?" Boomer asked. 
     "A friend from the camp," Jessica said. "He and I would see each other, oh, every ten days or so...that's when we had a day off work. We'd find a private place somewhere, a storeroom, usually, and have some...well...intimate time." 
      "A boyfriend?" Sheba asked. 
     "Not like that, but...he was pretty homesick. That, the labor, and the fact he'd never gotten over breaking from the torture on the home planet was wearing him down," Jessica recalled. "Seeing me once in a while was helping him stay sane." 
      Apollo looked at her. "Why was he taken?" 
    "He lived near an Air Force Base in another of our states," said Jessica. "Plattsburgh, in New York.  They took him at random, just like me or Lauren." 
     "Wrong place, wrong time," Wagner spat. "He's not military, though. Civilian. He helped his father run a lakeside resort near the base." 
     "Dishonorable...." Sargamesh growled. "The slime-worm who is the Commandant needs his head ripped from his shoulders! And his back snapped in half!" Korl, his fellow Zohrloch, muttered a string of curses that would have made any deck chief blanch. To say nothing of the deck itself.
    "Well..." Byrne said. "One more day. All the legal ducks are in a row, according to Solon and Memnon. Then we teach these.....people a lesson." 
    "Yeah," Starbuck said. "Only I won't be in my Viper for this one. I just found out from the Commander: Baltar wants me on the BaseShip as Liaison Officer. Among other things, I'll be relaying Croft's fire-support requests to the BaseShip gunners." 
     Sheba poked him in the arm. "You can't be in your Viper every time." 
    "I know, but it doesn't change the way I feel," Starbuck replied. "Oh, well....there's always next time. It'll take a few days to get out of these folks' territory." 
    "But you shall be part of the battle, even so," said Korl. "A great honor. I envy you."
     Apollo nodded. "Right on that, but we'll have a head start. It'll take two or three days at their top FTL speed to reach their capital-assuming anyone gets away, and at least a day to get a reaction force organized." 
     "And another two or three days to get back," Byrne understood. "Then they have no idea where we've gone to, and they have to spread out and search every system." 
     "Exactly, Captain," Apollo said. "Lords willing, we should be gone from this sector by then." 
     "And while that's going on, we give the freed prisoners not just a party, but their day in court." 
     Heads turned to him. "What?" Boomer asked. 
    "I told Solon I wanted to wait until after the mission, but the alien Captain, the one who was holding the Petty Officer as his slave? He gets hauled into court. And I want it put out for the record what happened in that camp, as well as what happened to her on that ship," Byrne said firmly. 
    "There's enough to convict?" Apollo asked. 
     "Solon said more than enough," Byrne replied. 
     "Then what?" Starbuck wanted to know. "Don't tell me we'd be wasting food and oxygen on this animal?" 
      Byrne nodded. "I wouldn't like that either. Solon said that the sentence is either life in prison or marooning, at the court's discretion." 
    "What do you think of that?" Sheba asked Jessica. 
     "Well, Lieutenant, I can't think of a better way. He's discovered what it's like to be a prisoner, and when the trial's over? He's rediscovering any survival training he may have had." And as people laughed, she finished. "And if the last thing he ever sees is some animal charging him with a mouth full of razor-sharp teeth?" 
    "Yeah?" Allen asked. 
     "Hope that animal doesn't get indigestion." 
      That brought howls of laughter. 
     "Hopefully, the CSPAC won't come after us," said Sheba.
      "The what?" asked Clemens.
      "The Colonial Society for the Prevention of Animal Cruelty."
      Several drinks went a-spilling, as the entire table erupted in a roar.


     At 0800 next morning, the principals gathered in the Galactica's Ward Room, apart from Baltar, Moray, and Orion, who were present via com link. "Gentlemen, and ladies," Adama said to open the session. "Today is Launch minus one. I'd like a final status report on your preparations, and we will finalize our strike planning, as well as go over the operation." As Adama finished, he saw heads nodding. "Colonel?" He motioned to Tigh. 
     "The Recycling Ship has finished its operations, and their holds are full of scavenged material," Tigh reported. "All ships are in their positions, and well within the dust and gas clouds around the gas giant."  
     "Excellent, Colonel," Adama said. "And the search for Brown Dwarves?" 
     "Thanks to the scans made by the Galactica and the Base Ship," Tigh replied, nodding to Moray's image on one of the monitors, "we've found two bodies that could be either Brown Dwarves or large orphan planets. The first," Tigh said as he called up a holographic display, is three-point-two light-yahren away, z-minus four thousand. It fits the description of a Brown Dwarf." 
     "Very good,' Adam nodded. "And the second?" 
      Moray took over. "That world, Commander, is five-point-eight light-yahren distant, but is relatively close to the target, being only one-point three light-yahren from the Chak System." 
     "So," Baltar asked. "Do we move the Fleet to either one?"
     "No," Adama replied, after a moment's thought. "There's so much gas, dust, and radion here that our own sensors have problems." 
     "The Brown Dwarves?" Boomer asked. 
     "Commander, if I may?" Apollo raised his hand.  
     Adama gestured to his son. "Go ahead, Captain. I take it you have a suggestion?" 
     "Yes, Commander." Apollo got up and called up the holographic map of the sector. "We use them, but as a decoy. If there's any of their ships or scanners left after we're finished, we set our initial egress course for one of those. Once we're clear of their scanner range, we change course to this system, rendezvous with the Fleet, and we pick up our Epsilon Vector 22 Heading as quickly as possible." 
      "Not the original purpose intended," said Moray. "But as a decoy....to them, it would be logical to send any pursuit force to that location." 
     "Exactly, Command Centurion," Adama nodded. "That's how we'll do it." He nodded to Croft, "Major Croft will brief us on the insertion of the SF Team, their raid, and the ground portion of the operation. Major?" 
     Croft nodded, then got up and put a new display up. "The SF Team leaves the Galactica in two Mark X shuttles, once the Galactica crosses the target system's heliopause. We're on the chrono, because we need to land at the LZ prior to 2200 their time, which is local midnight. Now, thanks to Commander Allen's recon, and the information gleamed from both captured ships, we know the gaps in their early-warning system, as well as their Traffic Control scans." He highlighted the sentinel satellites, scanning the system, and the gaps in the coverage. "Whether by accident, oversight, or just plain negligence, the gaps are there. We use those gaps to enter the system, and come in over the Eastern Hemisphere, which is uninhabited. Flying nap-of-the-surface, we come in from the East, over that sea, and make our approach, here." He pointed to the target area. "One centar's march from the target proper is a clearing in a wooded area. We land the shuttles there, and make our way on foot to the target." 
    "The shuttles stay there, correct?" Tigh asked. 
     "Yes, Colonel."
     "Commander, may I say something?" Clemens said, raising her hand.
     "Of course, Petty Officer," Adama nodded. 
     "Sir, that area is, of all places, a nature park and reserve. I've been there on work details, picking up garbage, that sort of thing. That time of night? Nobody's going to be there," she pointed out. 
     "Just in case, Commander," Croft added. "The shuttle crews will stun anyone who stumbles across them. By the time they wake up, we'll be long gone." 
     "Good point, Major," Adama said. "Continue, please." 
     "Yes, sir," Croft nodded. "We go in on foot, and once we reach the target, we wait until 0145 local. Then we eliminate the guards in the three closest watch towers with silenced rifle shots, and any roving guards close to where we cut the wire. Sergeant Wagner will be with us on Team One, and she'll now show how the prison compound will be taken down. Sergeant?" 
      Wagner got up and went to the display. "Commander. Gentlemen. Once those tower guards and any rovers are eliminated, we cut the wire, here, and make our way to these buildings: Barracks One, Two, and Three, the camp infirmary, and the camp kitchen. The first three are definitely guarded round the clock, and the other two may be. The guards on those buildings are silently disposed of, and we get into the barracks, one at a time. I'll tell the prisoners that we've come for them, and are taking them home. Once the prisoners are secured, I'll notify the Major, and that's the cue for the general raid to start." 
     "Thank you, Sergeant," Croft said. "Castor?" 
      The burly Lieutenant came up next. "I'll be taking Team Three into the punishment area and the interrogation shed. We cut the wire into the punishment area proper, and we'll know if there are prisoners there: if there's more than one guard, that's how we know. They're eliminated silently, and the prisoners in the isolation sheds are secured. When it's time for the general raid, we hit the Interrogation Shed with the same finesse we did on the Delta raid." 
     "Fast and hard," Pelias noted.
     "Yes, Sire," Castor replied. "Anyone working in that shed dies, and we get anyone being....interrogated there out." 
    "Good, Castor," Croft said. "Lieutenant Stark?" 
     Team Two's leader came next. "My team cuts the wire here," he pointed to a point halfway between the entrance and the punishment area. "When it's tome to take them down,  we hit the HQ Building, Officers' and Guards' quarters, and the VIP cottage. Same way: fast and hard. And once the HQ Building is secured? We grab everything in the office not nailed down. Computers, documents, data discs, external storage devices, even the contents of the office trash basket, and bring all that with us." 
    "How do you cover that up?" Baltar asked. 
     Distasteful as it was, Stark replied calmly, "We leave a couple of explosive charges behind. Once we pull out..." He pressed his thumb on an invisible button. "They'll never know what, if anything, was taken." Baltar nodded.
     "Good, Lieutenant," Adama said. "And Team Four?" 
     "They have overwatch and reserve, Commander. They'll also have troopers watching the access road. Anyone fleeing the camp? Someone that somehow got overlooked? Those troopers will make sure they don't get far," Croft said. 
      Tigh asked, "Extraction?" 
      "Coming to that," Croft nodded. "Once everything and everyone's secured, I make the extraction call. The shuttles come in, and we will have plenty of fighter cover," Croft said, gesturing to both Apollo and Orion. "Shuttle One takes the rescued prisoners, any wounded troopers, along with the intelligence haul and any Risik we manage to capture, Sergeant Wagner and a few Team One troopers go with them. Once they leave, the rest of the team gets on the second shuttle. Before we do, we leave charges in the prison buildings and the interrogation hut, and on departure, we blow them." 
     "And it's only a few centons from extraction to landing on Galactica, then?" Xaviar asked. 
     "That's about it, Sire," responded Croft. 
     "Good plan, Major," Adama said. "Now, the spaceborne portion of the operation. 
     Heads nodded at that. "And how does that unfold, Commander?" Siress Tinia asked, speaking for the first time. 
     Adama then stood. "We use the same gaps in their early-warning system. The Galactica, BaseShip, and Constellation proceed, in trail, until we get within visual range of Ne'Chak." The planet grew until it filled the holo-display. The continents and oceans were visible in great detail. "We'll time things to the centon to coincide with the ground mission, and once the chrono hits 0200, things go very quickly. Now, Captain Apollo and Orion will cover the fighter portion of the mission, while Colonel Tigh and Moray will deal with the heavy ships. Apollo?" 
     The Galactica's Strike Leader got up and went to the display. "Once we're within strike range of the planet," he moved one hand, and the image zoomed in, till the target site was in full view, "Blue Squadron launches from the Galactica, and Orion's from the BaseShip, and we go in, same way as the assault shuttles. The Vipers will have the scanner-homing missiles, and we'll neutralize the missile and gun batteries with those, then do some follow-up strafing runs to make sure they're knocked out, as well as anyone with any portable, shoulder-launched surface-to-air ordnance. Comments?" There were none, and Apollo handed the briefing over to Strike Leader Orion.
     Baltar's fighter leader took over. "My squadron attacks the spaceport, with particular emphasis on the military side, where the alert atmospheric fighters are kept, along with their ground control scanners, and we will destroy them on the ground." The computer played the sim of the attack. Quick, precise, and deadly. "Also, we will destroy their fuel and munitions storage, as well as the maintenance hangars. At the same time, other Raiders from the squadron will destroy the surface shipyard. After that task is completed, both squadrons assume a cover role for the ground force, and escort the shuttles upon completion of the ground mission." 
     Apollo nodded. "Thank you, Orion," and the Centurion nodded back. "Red Squadron and the second squadron from the BaseShip go in ahead of the big ships, clearing a path, here. They attack the ships in their berthing area, and the fewer of them that can power up and get underway, to attack the Galactica or the BaseShip, the better." 
     "Very good, Captain," Adama said. "And the orbital docks and space station?" 
      "That's Silver Spar's job, and Squadron Three," Apollo said, and Orion nodded agreement. "Their job is simple, Commander. Take the stardocks, and everything around them, apart." 
     "One question," Xaviar raised his hand. 
     "Sire?" Adama asked. 
     "Any estimate as to how long it'll take them to rebuild? A lot of time and effort went into building these, and the longer it takes them to rebuild, not only are we better off, but any nearby races are as well." 
     "Commander," Tigh said. "I've done some checking. Based on similar facilities in Colonial Space, given the distance needed to transport materials and workers here from their capital, it would take a minimum of five yahrens to reconstitute the lost capabilities." 
     Moray came in. "I concur, Commander. It would take approximately that long to rebuild a similar sized yard in the Empire as well." 
   "Thank you," Xaviar nodded. "Captain," He gestured at Apollo to continue. 
     'Sire, that leaves Yellow and half of Green on Galactica, and Squadron Four on the BaseShip, as a reserve," Apollo replied. 
    "If, for example, squadrons need to refuel and rearm," Orion said. "The reserve fighters can be launched as needed." 
    "Indeed, Orion," Adama said. "What about Constellation's fighters?" 
     Byrne looked at Apollo on hearing that.
    "They can either be a reserve, or they can strike this target, here." He indicated the uncompleted base on Ne'Chak's moon.
     "Defenses?"
     "Not on-line, as yet, according to our scans, and the cracked intel," said Allen.
     "I'll have one of my squadrons take it out," Byrne said. 
     "Very good, Captain," Adama said. "Now, Colonel Tigh and Command Centurion Moray will go over the role for the heavy ships." 
      Tigh got up to the display, which now showed the space around Ne'Chak. "The Galactica will assume a position high above the planet, and will engage the orbital station, here, that serves as their Fleet HQ." He highlighted that particular target. "We'll also engage any of their heavy ships that do break mooring and try to engage us and the BaseShip, There won't be any room for subtlety: we engage them as soon as we get fire-control lock on them."
     "And they'll realize that they're under attack is when their ships start coming apart around them," Byrne commented. 
      "Correct, Captain," Tigh said. "As you said, 'a fair fight is one where you didn't plan the mission properly.' " He saw Byrne nod and have a grin at the same time. "Command Centurion?" 
      Moray took over. "The BaseShip comes down, nearly directly over the camp, and engages any space targets with our dorsal weapons, while providing fire support to the raiding party. We also engage two surface targets." He indicated two areas near the camp. "The first target is the military garrison. As has been emphasized earlier, that facility poses a threat to the raiding party. It will be neutralized." 
     "That's good, Commander," Croft said. "We need that place blown off the map."
     "It will be done, Major," Baltar replied. "We'll have Lieutenant Starbuck aboard to relay any additional fire support requests from your team as needed." 
     "Thank you, Baltar," Adama said. "Please continue, Command Centurion."
      "By your command," Moray continued. "The other target is here. The reconnaissance to the target detected an antennae facility near the command bunker. It consists of various sensor domes, a number of communications antennae, and several electronic warfare systems. A few well-placed salvos from our guns will destroy the antennae, and clear the air for all of our electronic systems." 
      "And after that?" Pelias asked. 
     "The fire-support mission will take precedence," Moray said. "We can, of course, still engage any targets that threaten us with our dorsal mounts, including one of our Mega-Pulsars."
     Apollo winced. "One of those should take out one of their ships in a single shot." 
    "Should," Captain," Tigh reminded Apollo. "Now, as for the Constellation," He saw he had Byrne's rapt attention. "You'll screen the Galactica and the BaseShip. If anyone gets past the fighters, and comes your way, they're yours." 
     "And if someone comes into the system while we're turning their base to slag?" Byrne asked. 
     Adama turned to Byrne. "They're yours, Captain." 
     Byrne nodded. "We'll take them out, Commander." 
    "Very good, Captain," Adama replied. "Egress?" 
     "Once our objectives are met," Tigh said, we recall all of our fighters, and set a course outsystem, for one of the Brown Dwarves, as Captain Apollo indicated previously. Once we're clear of their scanner range, we set course to rendezvous with the Fleet." 
    "Excellent, Colonel," Adama said. "Well done to both you and the Command Centurion," He nodded in Moray's direction. 
    "By your command," the Cylon replied. 
     Adama nodded again. "Now, as to the rescued prisoners," he gestured to Doctor Salik. "Doctor?" 
     The CMO stood . "Commander, everyone," he said. "LifeCenter is fully ready. We'll have extra staff, not just to receive the prisoners, but also to treat any casualties from shipboard, or among the rescue party. And we'll have an extra staff member to help. Petty Officer Clemens will be with the reception team in the Landing Bay."
     "Thanks, Doc," Clemens said. "Having an English speaker will help you out. And someone else on Constellation wants to help. Jen. She can help with the kids." 
      Adama looked at Bryne, who nodded in the affirmative. Then at Salik. "Doctor?" 
    "Having two people who can speak an Earth language? It can only help. Bring her along, Petty Officer." 
     "We'll be there, Doc." Clemens said. 
     "In addition, I've had my medtechs take a look at their childbirth training. If one or more of the women are pregnant, as is possible, they may decide that's the time to go into labor. All the stress, you realize," he said as he saw jaws dropping at the mention of the possibility. 
     "Ah," Tinia said. "Of course, Doctor." 
      Salik gave a smile. "Hopefully, no one's due in the coming days, but if they are, it's possible with all the stress of the rescue, and.....you get the idea."
     "We do, Doctor," Adama said. "Now, there are a few other matters. First is Combat Search and Rescue. There will be Security on standby, along with a couple of shuttles, to rescue any downed pilots. If we can't send a mission, we'll use the transport device to retrieve them. No one, as Captain Byrne is fond of saying, gets left behind." 
    Heads nodded at that. The Viper leaders and the SF men especially. 
   "Second," Adama continued. "If the colony's government asks for a cease-fire? It will be granted. However, it will not be until we've accomplished not only the rescue, but at a minimum, the stardocks and shipyard have been destroyed. Then we grant the request, recall the fighters, and depart the system. Understood?" 
      Again, heads nodded understanding. 
    "Third, keep in mind that we are not at war with these people, regardless of whatever plans they have for Earth or anyone else. Under no circumstances are civilian targets to be engaged on the planet's surface. Is that understood?" 
     "Very clear, Commander," Tigh said. 
     "Yes, Sir," Apollo nodded. 
     "Baltar?" Adama asked. 
     "Understood, Adama. No civilian targets attacked," Baltar replied. 
     "By your command," Moray and Orion said simultaneously. 
     "One final thing: who will command the Fleet in our absence," said Adama. He looked at Commander Allen. "The Colonial Fleet, once the attack force leaves, is yours, Commander." 
      Allen gulped. "Yes, sir," he nodded as Byrne slapped him on the back. 
     "Keep in mind, it's only on loan," Adama reminded him. "And I expect it back in the same condition I left it." 
     "I'll return it the same way I got it, Commander," Allen replied. 
     "I appreciate that, Commander Allen," Adama smiled. "Now, any questions?" He saw Xaviar raise his hand. "Sire?"
     "Commander, any estimate as to how long it'll take them to realize what's happened? I'm referring to their Capital." 
      "Commander," Apollo said. "Captain Byrne and I discussed this yesterday, after the Council meeting." 
     "Captains?" Adama asked. 
     "Commander," Byrne said. "There might be an alien commander who decides that this isn't a fight he can win, ideology be damned. The nearest colony to Ne'Chak doesn't have a base, according to the alien data, so there's only one way he can run to." 
    "The Capital world?" Moray asked. 
      Apollo nodded. "That's right. It will take someone three days at their maximum FTL speed to get to the Capital, a day at least to organize and send out a reaction force, and three days to get back. They'll know where we generally went-that is, the decoy to the Brown Dwarf." 
     "And when they get there and find nothing?" Asked Tigh. 
     "Colonel," Byrne took over. "They have to spread out to check every system, and by that time, we ought to be out of the sector." 
    "We might still run across a patrol or two on our way out," Baltar pointed out. 
    "If we do, we'll evade if possible, but engage if necessary," Adama decided. "Is there anything else?" 
     Wagner raised her hand, "Commander?" 
    "Sergeant?" 
     "Commander, we're about to execute a mission that, when it's over, will bring our two peoples closer together. My boyfriend, when he was in the Army back home, was in one of our Special Forces units, the Green Berets as we call them. They have a prayer, and though I've forgotten most of it, there's one line that I do remember and it's appropriate for this operation." 
     "What is it? Tinia asked. 
     "Siress, I think it goes like this: 'God be with us as we go to defend the defenseless and free the enslaved.' " 
     There was silence for a couple of centons, then Xaviar spoke. "Very appropriate, don't you think, Commander?" 
     "It is very appropriate, Sire," Adama nodded. "Sergeant?" He saw Wagner nod herself. "The Lords willing, they will be with us as we do just that."
     "Thank you, Sir," Wagner said. 
      "Now, if you'll all notice the main monitor. It shows Galactica time, as well as the time at the camp. It is now 0300 at the camp. Pilot assembly at 1245, and mission launch is at 1300, so carry out what personnel transfers are needed from one ship to another, start briefing your subordinates, and have them enjoy a good meal. Because once we leave, we'll all be busy." Heads nodded at that. "We won't have an after-action review until at least a day after the mission, but that gives us time to debrief some of the liberated prisoners, begin exploitation of any captured material, and interrogate any Risik we manage to capture. Any final thoughts?" 
     "Commander," Pelias said. "These.....people, they will get a lesson that they will never forget." 
     "They will indeed, Sire." Adama replied. "If that's it, let's get busy, and one final thing: Good Luck. We're adjourned." 


     After returning from the Galactica, Byrne, Wagner, and Clemens briefed Dante, Mr. Malik, department heads, and the squadron commanders on the mission. Though Dante and Malik knew that a mission was being planned, and Mr. Dilley, the Damage-Control officer, had been making space for the new arrivals, this was the first time everyone had been brought in onto the secret. When finished, Byrne asked. "Any questions?" 
     "This is for real?" Mr. Dilley, the Damage-Control Officer asked. "We're really doing this?" 
      "It is, Mr. Dilley," Byrne replied. "Have your damage-control people ready for anything." He turned to his gunnery officer. "Mr. Malik? We could be engaging anything: from a small patrol craft up to what they call a patrol cruiser, which is the captured ship." 
      "Understood, Captain. I shall begin drills of the gun crews at once. We shall be ready." 
     "Very good, Mr. Malik," Byrne replied. "Now, one of your gunners is going on the ground mission," He nodded at Wagner. "Hope you don't mind." 
     "Not at all, Captain. I will never deny anyone their just revenge," Malik nodded. He turned to Wagner. "Sergeant, I hope you will get your revenge, and that the stain on your honor is removed." 
      "So do I," Wagner replied. Thank you, sir." 
     "Now, Petty Officer Clemens and Jen will be going over to Galactica with her, to help with the rescued prisoners. Dr. Rena?" Byrne looked at his Ship's Doctor. "I know it's just you and four medtechs. Let's hope we don't need any of your services." 
     Dr. Rena nodded back. "Amen to that, Captain. But Medical will be on full alert, just in case any of Mr. Malik's gunners miss a target." She cast the Zohrloch a sideways smile.
      "Bah!" rumbled the other. 
     Byrne then turned to his Mess Officer. "Have some snacks and finger food ready for everyone. Because once we leave the Fleet, we'll be at Condition Two, and when we approach the target system, it's Battle Stations. So no galley." 
     "We're getting that all ready, sir."
     "Very good. Mr. Dante, when GQ sounds, I'll be on the bridge. You lead the CIC team.
     "Yes, Captain," Dante nodded. 
     "Anything else?" He looked around, but there was nothing. "Good. That's it, then. We're ship-shape, so let's get ready, and get this done." 
     Wagner, Clemens, and Jen went to their cabin and quickly packed. They knew they'd be gone for a few days so they got ready. As they got ready to head to the Docking Bay, Byrne came by. "You all ready?" 
     "Yes, sir," Wagner said. She'd be stopping by the Security Office and picking up her rifle and Mark-23 on the way. 
     Byrne then looked at Clemens. "Won't be long now. Twenty-four hours, give or take, and your friends are out of that hellhole." 
    "Yes, sir," she replied. "When they get off that shuttle, I'm going to hug Denise, and probably never let go."
     "Don't forget Ron," Jen reminded her. 
     "I know. If there's anyone who might have just given up, it's him," Clemens said, wiping away a tear at the thought. "I just hope he hung on." 
     "So do I, Petty Officer," Byrne said. "Sergeant?" He turned to Wagner. "Ask the Major when you get to Galactica: bring anyone buried there back with you." 
     Wagner nodded. "Yes, sir," she said with a determined eye. "No one, living or dead, is left behind." 
     "You got it, Sergeant," Byrne replied. "Jen," he turned to his daughter. "You're going to discover babysitting skills you never thought you had." 
     "Have to learn sometime, Pop," Jen replied. "And with me and Jessica, two people there speaking English?"
     "You'll do fine," her father said. He looked at his watch. "Time for you guys to get over to the Galactica," he said. "I'll see you when it's over. And Sergeant?" 
     "Sir?" Wagner asked. 
     "Kick a few and take a few." 
     "Sir, I'll do just that. And Scarface? I'll kick his ass, take his name, and if I could, bring his head back. On a platter." 
      "We'll settle for him in cuffs, if you don't mind," Byrne reminded her. "Good luck, and when the shooting starts?" 
      "Sir?" 
      "Keep your head and your ass down." 
      "I'll do that."
     "Be sure you do. Remember, no matter how much you want him, don't let anger cloud your thinking. Not in a combat situation. Clouded minds can get people killed. So, keep cool."
     "Sir."
      Byrne then embraced his daughter, the Petty Officer, and Wagner, then they headed for the Docking Bay. They stopped by the Security Office, and Wagner picked up her HK-416 and Mark-23 along with her tactical vest. Then they went to the Docking Bay, where the Armstrong was waiting, with Ensign Adele. "You're our ride back to the Galactica?" 
     "I am, and too bad I'm not a Viper pilot. Too bad, because this is one mission I'd love to fly."
     "There's a saying back home: 'They also serve, those who stand and wait.'" Wagner said. "Though I'm sure those who stand didn't make it up."
     "We have one too," Adele replied. "Not my time yet, though. All right, let's get aboard." 
      The trio got aboard the Armstrong, and Clemens was surprised at how easily Lauren and Jen had adapted so fast. She was on her way as well, and knew that her friends, in the coming days, would as well. Adele got launch clearance, and she fired up the engines and lifted out of the Docking Bay. 
     On the Bridge, Byrne watched them leave, then he turned to his Exec. "Mr. Dante, make sure everyone aboard has had something to eat. Because we leave in two centars, and after that, we'll be shutting down the galley." 
     "Yes, sir." 
     "One other thing." 
     "Sir?"
     "Well be teaching these....people one important lesson: Payback's a bitch." 


     After arriving on the Galactica, the trio of Earthers noticed the activity in Alpha Bay, as deck hands, armorers, and maintenance personnel got Vipers combat-ready. "Adele, thanks for the ride," Wagner said. "See you when it's over." 
      "You too, and Lauren? If nobody's said it before, I will. Keep your head and your astrum down."
     "Thanks," Lauren replied as they left the shuttle. 
      Adele smiled, then she taxied for takeoff and the return trip to the Constellation. The three Earthers headed for LifeCenter, and when they got there, they found a lot of activity, as the staff was getting ready. But Cassie saw them come in, and she waved them over. "Sergeant, I see you've brought our two assistants," 
     "I have, and hope you guys won't be busy too much before we bring the prisoners here. And I'll be on the same shuttle they are." 
     "Good idea, whoever that was," Cassie said. 
     "It was Croft's," Lauren nodded.  "So...not much for you guys to do but wait." 
      "For now," Cassie said. "But when the battle starts? We'll all be busy. Hopefully, not too busy until that shuttle arrives."
     "Not going to argue with that," Lauren said. "Can you find something for Jen to do? Because we have one final piece of business with that piece of trash in the Security Ward." 
     "You want a final talk with him?" Cassie asked. 
     "Both of you going to strangle him?" Jen quipped. 
     "I wish," Jessica said. "But I don't want him getting off that easy." 
     "Same here," Lauren agreed. Then she escorted Jessica to the Security Ward, where Corporal Vesper was on duty. "Vesper." 
     "Sergeant," he nodded. "And this must be Petty Officer Clemens." 
     "How'd you know?" Lauren asked. 
     "Word's gotten around," Vesper replied. "Besides, the Earth uniform is a dead giveaway." 
      Lauren sighed. "Oh, well. Anyway, is our guest still there?" 
     "Hasn't gone anywhere, Ma'am."
     "Okay. We're going to have a final talk with him," Lauren said. She handed over her sidearm and her HK-416. 
      As she handed the rifle over, Vesper whistled. "First time I've seen one of these. The SF guys use them, but the rest of Security...."
     "If you want to shoot these, come over to SF," Lauren said as she signed in. "I've used this twice: once when we boarded the Councilmen's shuttle, and when we rescued her," she pointed to Jessica. "And nobody I shot got back up again." 
     "I'll take your word for it, Ma'am," Vesper said. "I'll be right outside if you need anything. 
     "Thanks," Lauren said as they went into the ward, and found Lemeshik sitting in the cell. 
     "So...both Te'rean bitches show up," he sneered. "I feel so honored."
     "I'd keep that to myself," Lauren said. "If I were you, I'd be thinking about what I'm going to say in court." 
     "What nonsense..."
     "NO," Jessica said firmly. "By this time tomorrow, my friends in that hellhole you call a camp are going to be free. We're getting them out of there." 
     "She's right," Lauren nodded. She got into his face, across the security door. "We're taking them home. Where they belong." 
      He glared at both of them as he stood up. "You have no right....."
     "SIT DOWN!" Lauren yelled. "Like I said the last time: you had no right to take anyone from Earth! I don't give a damn about what your gods, or your politicians, or any of the rest of your slimy leaders have said. You had no right to take us! Whether it's me, her, her friends in that camp, those on that prison planet, or anyone you took, examined, and released. You had no damned right to do any of that! And if I ever find anyone else associated with any of it, they are dead men. You understand me?" 
      Lemeshik stared at both of them. "Your people are beneath us. The gods have foreseen that we will return to your world. And you will bow down to your masters." 
     "Like I said, your gods haven't foreseen the Galactica, and even if you try to go back, by that time, there'll be a hundred ships like this one, defending Earth. Your fleet would be the proverbial targets in a shooting gallery." 
      He stared at her again. "I do not believe you. Your people worshiped us." 
     "So your leadership tells you. And  that was several thousand years ago," Lauren reminded him. "A lot's changed since." 
      Lemeshink glared at her, then at Jessica. "Traitor! Ingrate! I gave you a better life.."
     "SHUT UP!" Jessica yelled, barely holding it in. "A better life? After what you did to me? You call that 'a better life?'" She moved towards the door.
      Lauren held her arm. "Steady, girl. He'll get what's coming to him." 
     "Maybe you should've let me kill him," Jessica told her friend. 
     "Maybe I should have," Lauren agreed. "But business before pleasure" She looked at the prisoner. "If the Colonials didn't need you for interrogation....."
      He looked at her. By the gods.....I owe my life to this, this, heretical bitch? You?" 
     "I didn't let her blow your brains all over that bulkhead," Lauren reminded him. "Not that they're very good brains, but they are the only ones you have. And if she had anyway? From those videos we found of you and her? She had every reason to." 
     Jessica nodded. "In that case...Captain," she hissed. "I'd think about what's going to happen after my friends get rescued. Because the next time I see you, it'll be in court."
     "She's right," Lauren said. "After we rescue these people, you're going into court. A Human court. And you'll have to answer for your crimes. Kidnapping, slavery, torture, and rape. And those are just for starters. We'll have her, the female prisoners you....inspected, and those videos we found of you and her," Lauren reminded him. "And I don't think the Tribunal's going to listen to your 'Earth people are inferior' defense." 
     He stared at them again. "You are joking." 
    "We're not," Lauren said. "And you'd better hope the court gives you life on the Prison Barge, because the alternative sentence is marooning." 
    "Think about it.....Captain," Jessica hissed. "You, alone on some planet, where the animal life thinks you might be good for lunch....trying to eke out some kind of existence." 
     Lauren nodded.  "She's right. If they do maroon you...."
     "Yes," he sneered back. 
     "Learn how to make a homemade spear." She turned to the entrance. "Vesper! We're thorough here."
      As Vesper came to let them out, Lemeshik sneered again. "You will see how we fight." 
     "So?" Lauren said as the two women left the cell. "The second ship of yours? The one who picked a fight with the Galactica? He got blown into a million pieces. Think about that...." 
     Lemeshik glared at them. "One day, we will return to your world." 
    "So?" Lauren replied "The reception committee's going to give any fleet of yours the same reception the Galactica gave to that second ship of yours." 
     "Then we might just come looking for you...." Jessica said, getting in the last word. "And...My Lord?" She said with a trace of sarcasm. 
     "What is it, you bitch?" Lemeshik glared at her. 
     "Now you know what it's like to be locked up. Not very fun, now that you're the one locked behind a door, is it?" Then the two followed Vesper out. "God, I needed that."
     Lauren nodded as she picked up her rifle and sidearm. "So did I." She looked and saw Corporal Stamaris come in. "Vesper, he your relief?"
    "Yes, Ma'am. I'm on tap for one of the CSAR Teams." 
     "Okay," Lauren said. "In that case...good luck. And hope you don't need to answer that call."
     "You and me both, Ma'am." 
      Lauren and Jessica then went back to LifeCenter, and found Jen helping Cassie inventory some supplies. "Anything to keep busy," Cassie said as they came in.
     "Well....Lauren said. "Time for me to get to the SF Area." 
     "I know," Jessica said, giving her a hug. "Take care."
     "You too." 
      And Lauren? If you bring Scarface back, how will we know?" 
     "Simple? You'll see his sorry ass dragged out of the shuttle," replied Lauren.
     "I wouldn't mind seeing that," Jessica said. "And if you do have to kill him?"
     "Yeah?" 
     Jessica looked at her roomie and new close friend. "Shoot him where he bleeds the most and lives the longest."
     "And screams the loudest." They turned, and saw Jen.  She'd overheard every word. 
     "You know me by now,' Lauren said. "If I can, I'm taking that shot."
      "One other thing?" Jessica said as Lauren headed out. 
     "Yeah?" 
      She looked at Jen, then at Lauren. "You, me, Jen, and if she's up to it, Denise. How about a day on the Rising Star when this is all over?" 
     'You got it." 

      While Lauren headed off to the SF Area, a Colonial Shuttle carrying Lieutenant Starbuck flew into one of the BaseShip's landing bays. The Lieutenant debarked, carrying a small overnight bag. He was treating this as one of his occasional tours as Liaison Officer, and he saw Ayesha in the bay, waiting for him. "Ayseha," he said as the shuttle taxied out and flew off on the return trip to the Battlestar. 
      "Starbuck," the woman who he previously knew as Claudia, and had nearly become his stepmother, said warmly. "Come. Baltar and Moray are expecting you." 
     As the two went to the Central Core, Starbuck noticed the Centurions tasked with maintenance and ordnance duties going about their work with quick efficiency. This was probably the first time any Colonial had seen this side of a BaseShip at work, and he memorized what he saw, for his after-action report. When they got to the bottom of the Core, Starbuck went to the small cabin next to Baltar's and Ayesha's that he occupied when he was aboard, tossed his bag onto the bunk, then went into the Control Center. There, he found Baltar and Moray waiting. "Baltar, Moray," 
     "Ah, Lieutenant," Baltar said warmly. "Do we have anything new?" 
     Starbuck nodded, then took out his pad. "We do. Major Croft asked for this." He showed Baltar what was on the pad: an image of the camp, with a 250-metron circle drawn around it. "He's asking for a no-strike zone 250 metrons from the camp in all directions. No shipboard weapons fire within that radius."
     Baltar looked at the pad, then turned to Moray. "Inform the gunners, Moray. No firing on targets within that distance from the camp." 
    "By your command,' Moray said. 
     "I'll let him know," Starbuck took out his PDA and sent Croft the text. "That's done. There's one other thing: Wilker's people were going over some imagery and noticed this: It's about a kilometron west of the shipyard." 
     "What is it?" Baltar wanted to know. And Moray was showing interest as well. 
      "They don't know, other than it's some kind of underground facility under construction," Starbuck replied, pointing to the imagery.. "And since it's likely military related, Commander Adama wants it taken out." 
     "Understood,' Baltar said. "We'll engage that target once the fighters are clear of the shipyard." 
     Starbuck nodded. "Apart from that, we're to go as we planned and briefed." 
     The traitor nodded back. "Very good. Now, since we'll be moving out on the mission shortly, would you care to join us for lunch?" 
     Starbuck knew that being a polite guest was a crucial, though unspoken, part of the job, even when interacting with the Centurions. Though he had had something to eat prior to coming over from the Galactica, he'd gotten to appreciate Ayesha's cooking on these duty stints. "I wouldn't mind having some," he replied. 
     "Excellent!" Baltar said. He turned to Moray. "Lady Ayesha, the Lieutenant, and I will be having lunch, Moray. It's now 1205. Unless it's Commander Adama himself, we're not to be disturbed until 1245." 
     "By your command," Moray replied. 
      Baltar gestured to his quarters. "Shall we?" 


      Aboard Galactica, Sergeant Wagner had arrived at the SF area. When she got through the hatch, she found it a beehive of activity, as some troopers were taking the time to get in some last-centon time on the range, and the sound of automatic-weapons fire was long and loud from the range. Others were checking and rechecking their gear, while the combat medtechs were going over their equipment, and two were engaging in some final hand-to-hand practice. Those guys remind me of Pararescue, she thought. Guys whose first job was to rescue downed pilots, but also ready to fight if necessary to protect those in their care, or even to get to the downed crew in the first place. She then went to Croft's office, and found the door open. 
     "Major?"
     "Sergeant," the commando leader replied. "Notice anything different?" 
     "Sir?" She asked. Then she saw it. He was wearing the same BDUs she was wearing. "Jasen told me he came through for you, Major." 
     "He did," Croft replied. "The rest of the guys will wear these when we go. And I like it: it's a lot more comfortable than our standard field uniform, and the pattern's a good one. Like you said: anyplace but the arctic." 
      "Glad to see it, sir," Wagner said. She noticed that his was the same as hers, down to the nametag with his name, and where it said "U.S. Air Force" on hers, his said "Colonial Forces." And there was a Galactica patch on the right shoulder in place of the American flag. "Sir, is there anything new?" 
     "No," Croft said. "Though after we leave the system, we'll have ten centars before we get to the launch point. The Mess people will have a meal for us, then I want everyone to get at least six centars of sleep. And that includes both you and me. My office couch is yours, and I'll just do what I did before the Delta op." 
      Lauren nodded. She'd sacked out on the office couch, while Croft had simply laid back in his chair and cat-napped. "Yes, sir." 
     Croft looked at the chrono. It said. 1225. "There's also time on the range if you want some." 
     "Major, I'd like that," she replied. "There's also this from Captain Byrne." She relayed what he'd told her about not leaving anyone behind-even the dead. "Someone may have died there since the Petty Officer was there last. No one, not even someone who died there, gets left behind." 
      "I'll have some of the guys bring folding shovels along. And they're also good up close and personal-if you know what I mean." 
      Lauren nodded. A shovel smashed into somebody's skull often meant that somebody wasn't getting up ever again. "I do, sir, Not good if you're on the receiving end." 
      "It is that," Croft agreed.  Then there was a knock at the door. "Yes?" It was Castor. 
     "Major, there's room on the range if you need some time, " Castor said. "and for you, Sergeant," 
     "Thanks, Castor." Croft replied. "Sergeant?"
     "Well, sir,  if you need some time, I need some time," Lauren said. 
      The two left Croft's office, went to the firing range, loaded their respective weapons, and began sending rounds downrange.


      On the Bridge, Commander Adama went over the mission, one last time. Everything was in readiness. He turned to check the plot board. Ne'chak was ten centars distant at the speed of the three ships that were going on the mission, when he heard a voice behind him.
     "Commander?" 
      Adama turned, and Sire Pelias was there. "Sire?" 
      "Commander, I just wanted to wish you good luck one final time, and paraphrase what the Sergeant said." 
     "And that is?" 
     "May the Lords be with as as we go to defend the defenseless and free the enslaved." 
      "Indeed, Sire. It's almost time for you to go over to the Rising Star," Adama reminded the young Sire. 
      "Yes, Commander. My shuttle is ready to depart .In thirty centars or so, the Lords willing, you'll be back, and our Earth brethren will be receiving the care they need," Pelias said. "You know, it's moments like this that make we wish I'd stayed in uniform, Commander. I confess...I wish I was going on that mission with them."      "Fate has ways of putting us on different paths."
     "She does, indeed, Commander." He turned to leave. "Oh. One final thing, though." 
     "Yes?"
      "Commander, if a new resolution is needed to determine the status of the children....." Pelias looked at Adama with a solemn expression. "Xaviar, Tinia, and I will co-sponsor it. We have already drawn one up, and will present it if necessary at the next Council meeting."
     "Thank you, Sire," Adama shook Pelias' hand.
      Pelias looked at the Chrono. 1245. "Time for me to go, Commander. Good luck, and I will look forward to hearing how the mission went."
     "As well as to meeting your new constituents," Adama smiled. 
     "Yes, Commander. Spoken like a politician. Ever think of running for the Council?" he grinned. Pelias shook Adama's hand one last time, then headed for Alpha Bay and his shuttle. 
     After Pelias' shuttle left, Colonel Tigh came up. "Commander, all pilots in their ready rooms. All sections report ready. Lieutenant Starbuck reports all stations aboard the BaseShip are ready, also." 
     Adama nodded. "Very well, Tigh." He turned to Omega. "Put me on Unicom, please." 
     Omega nodded, handed the Commander a microphone, and worked his keyboard. "You're on, Commander." 
     "People of the Fleet, this is Commander Adama. The Galactica, BaseShip, and the Constellation are temporarily leaving the Fleet. As you know, we have encountered a race known as The Abductors, who not only abducted one of our Earth travelers, Sergeant Lauren Wagner, but several thousand others, as part of a plan to attack Earth. Recently, one of our patrols discovered a wrecked ship that was traced back to this race, A sectan ago, there was an engagement with one of their ships, and in the course of the action, a boarding party discovered another abductee from Earth, being held as a slave aboard that ship. She indicated that there were at least fifty others, all Earthers, held in a slave camp in a nearby system.
     "After a second alien ship was engaged and destroyed, though it did not have a Human aboard, a rescue mission was planned. That mission is now ready to be launched. The Galactica, BaseShip, and the Constellation are now leaving on that mission. We will free our Earth brothers and sisters held there, and destroy that system's military capabilities. After we return to the Fleet, we will leave this sector, and resume our journey, only we will have fifty or so new travelers among us. Not only will this mission bring our two societies closer together, but it will allow them to start on their own journeys home. 
     "The Adelaide and the Century will remain here to protect you, and the gas, dust, and radion will also do so, obscuring the sensors of anyone who enters this system. The Fleet is relatively safe here, and we will not be absent too long for any threats to make their presence felt. Commander Allen of the Adelaide will be in acting command during my absence, and I know he will do his best to ensure your safety. To those going on this mission, good luck, and may the Lords of Kobol be with us all. Thank you." He handed the microphone back to Omega. "Unicom off." 
    "Commander," Omega replied. 
     Tigh looked at the chrono. "It's 1300, Commander." 
    "Now, Colonel." Adama ordered. 
     Tigh nodded. "Navigation: course to the Chak system laid in?" 
    "Course laid in, sir," the navigator said. 
     "Helm: full sublight to the heliopause, then flank speed to the target system." 
     The woman at the helm nodded. "Executing, sir." 
     As the commands went it, the huge Battlestar banked away, to take up point. The BaseShip following suit, to the Galactica's port. A few microns later, the Constellation joined them, starboard. 
      "On course, Commander," Tigh reported. "All helm and navigation systems synced."
     "Thank you, Colonel. Omega?" 
     "Commander?" 
    "Signal the BaseShip and Constellation: set Readiness Level Two, and full communications silence." 
    "Sir," Omega replied as he sent the message. 

      Aboard the BaseShip, the message came into the Command Center, where Baltar, Starbuck, and Moray were waiting. "Moray, take us out. Follow the Galactica: same course and speed, and set Readiness Level Two." 
    "By your command," Moray replied, and he relayed the orders. The Cylon behemoth followed the Battlestar on its course out of the system. 
    

     On Constellation, the same message came in. "Captain, it's time," Dante said to Captain Byrne.
    "All right, Mr. Dante," Byrne said after a moment. "Set Condition Two throughout the ship. Helm: keep us synced  
      "Aye, sir," the helmsman replied. 
      "Condition Two set throughout the ship, Captain," Dante reported. "Alert fighter pilots in their ships, the rest in their ready rooms. Half of all weapons mounts manned and ready." 
     "Thank you, Mr. Dante," Bryne said. "And now it begins." 

     On the Adelaide's Bridge, Commander Allen, Kaylesha, and the duty bridge crew watched as the three warships left on their mission. Allen watched them smear into lightspeed, and muttered, "Good luck, mates. And kick some arse fer me, while yer at it." 
     "They will succeed," Kaylesha said. "The gods so will it." 
      Allen nodded. "I know they will." He turned to Vickers, his Exec. "I want one Viper squadron airborne at all times, patrolling the system. And coordinate with Century. I don't want any surprises." 
     "Sir." Vickers said, then relayed the order to Adelaide's flight ops, and the Century. 


     At exactly the same time as the attack force left the Colonial Fleet on the mission to the Chak System, the prisoners in Special Camp One were beginning yet another day. Or, as they so often said, "Another day in hell." In the camp kitchen, the prisoners who prepared the inmates' meals were already up and working, and one of them, Denise Hayden, was busy preparing what the prisoners called "oatmeal" but they really had no idea what it was. Some of them, frankly, didn't want to. Their diet was enough to keep them alive and reasonably healthy, yes, almost like in a World War II German Stalag, but everyone had lost some weight, and all were worn from the labor that their captors had them doing. At least I'm working here, Denise thought, and not outside. For a while, anyway. She had been on any number of work details outside the camp, with her friend Jessica, until they and several of the women had been called to the Commandant's Office. There, they had been forced to strip, and had been paraded for a high-ranking Risik officer, who had repeatedly.....inspected their bodies, made them spread their legs, and then went up and down the line, until he pulled Jessica out of the line. Then the Commandant barked at them to get dressed and go back to work, and she hadn't seen Jessica since. Word had it she had been taken from the camp, and though Anna and a couple others swore they had seen her when that same officer came back three months ago, Denise thought, along with the other women, that Jessica was dead. Then the door to the kitchen opened, and Anna Popova, who was a Soviet Air Force nurse-or had been until her abduction, came in. She ran the clinic and the nursery at the camp, and was coming to get breakfast for her, her patient, and one of the mothers, who was excused from other work, as only five days earlier, she had had a baby boy. 
     "Good morning, Anna." 
     "Good morning, Denisa Feodorovna," Anna said in her Russian-accented English (English being the common language among the prisoners, and even those who hadn't been English-speakers had been taught by their fellow prisoners. Ever true to her roots, though, the Russian woman always added the patronymic.) "Another day in hell, eh?" 
     Denise nodded. "How's Marta?" Marta van Dyk was the new mother. Dutch, she had been, of all things, a hairdresser in her home town of Eindhoven, Holland. It was also the home of a Dutch Air Force Base, and the Risik had simply taken her-like so many others-at random, assuming they knew about the military targets near where they were abducted from. Her common-law husband, a mechanic who was also Dutch, had simply been driving near a USAF base in Holland when he was taken, and his captors refused to believe that he knew only the barest details about the base-only that the base was there, that F-15 fighters flew out of it, and that as far as he knew (which wasn't much) there were no nuclear weapons stored at the base. 
     "She's fine, and so is the baby," Anna said. "A normal delivery, and both are well. Fredrik, though, was a nervous wreck." Fredrik Marrten was Marta's partner. 
     Denise smiled. "Tell her to enjoy the next twenty-five days." 
    "I will," Anna said as Denise filled two trays. One with Anna's breakfast, and one with Marta's. The women who had children got full meals, until the children could be weaned off the breast milk. Then it was back to a normal diet. "Ron is hanging in there." 
     Denise nodded. Ron Mathews was Jessica's old friend. She had helped him stay sane and hang on-until Jessica had been taken away and never seen again-unless Anna was right. "How long?" 
    "Three more days on the sick list, and he's doing okay," Anna said. "Then it's back to work." 
    "Tell me," Denise asked. "Did you ever learn any psychology or psychiatry in your training?" 
     "Nyet," Anna replied. "Why do you ask?" 
      Denise looked around. No guards were around to overhear, but she lowered her voice to a whisper, anyway. "I had a dream last night. Jessica was at the foot of my bunk. She told me, 'Hang on, girl. We're coming for you.' Then I woke up."
     "Strange..." Anna admitted. "I haven't had anything like that." She looked at Jessica's friend. "Did come back?" 
     "Yeah," Denise said. "I closed my eyes, and she was there again. She said 'We're on the way. We're coming to get you. And we'll give the Risik a taste of hell when we get there.' What do you make of it?" 
      Anna shrugged. "I have no idea. But...." She picked up the trays. "Wouldn't it be great if someone did come for us?" 
     "And take us home," Denise looked around. One guard was half-looking at them, with a disinterested sneer, then he went about his business. 
     "Or any place we would be free of Risik swine!"
     "Yeah. Right now, If the Klingons from Star Trek came and took us away from here, I'd kiss their boots." 
Anna looked at Denise, then gave a slight nod. 
     "So would I. I'll be back for Ron's meal."
     "All right." 
      Anna smiled, then went back to the Clinic. A guard stopped her, checked her trays, then let her go on her way. Denise watched her go, and as she went back to work, thought she heard Jessica's voice. "It won't be long. We'll get you out of there. And send the Risik to hell." Shaking her head, Denise went over to the stove. The hard-boiled eggs for Ron were done. 

     In Galactica's LifeCenter, Jessica was sitting on a bunk in a private cabin. The very one, in fact, that Lauren had stayed in after her rescue. She looked out the viewport and saw the Constellation maintaining formation with the Battlestar. Then the door hissed open, and both Cassie and Jen came in.
     "Hey," 
     "Hey yourself," Cassie said. "Enjoying the view?"
       Jessica smiled. "I am. To me, it's something out of a movie, but it's not. It's real...and we're going to do this. Really do this."
     Cassie smiled. "That we are. Listen, it's going to be a while before we get busy. Why not you two have something to eat, get some rest? Because we won't be needing you until after the assault team leaves."
     "I though the galley was shut down?" Jen said. "They did on Constellation." 
     "LifeCenter has its own commisary," Cassie let out an evil-looking grin. "I can get us something to eat, we can talk for a while, and then you two can get some sleep. You'll be glad you did, because once things start happening, we'll all be busy."
     "Well?" Jen asked. 
     "Why not?" Jessica said. "We can talk, share stories, that sort of thing."
     "Okay," Cassie grinned. "I can tell you some stories...growing up on my father's freighter, knowing Commander Cain, that sort of thing." 
     "Sheba's dad," Jen told Jessica. "He was a Battlestar Commander, too."
     "I'd like that." 
     Cassie left to get the food, and Jessica turned back to the viewport. "I can't explain it, Jen. I thought for a minute, while I was dozing here, I was talking to Denise." 
     Jen looked at her. "If Lauren was here, she'd just say you were nervous."
    "You're right, but I thought for a minute I was. It seemed so real. I told her to hang on, we're coming for you, and giving the Risik a taste of hell." 
     "And we'll do just that," Jen reminded her roomie. Just as she said that, the door hissed open again and Cassie was there with two covered plates.
     "Some snacks and finger food," Cassie announced. "Let's enjoy." 
      As the trio started to dig in, Jessica smiled. She thought she'd heard Denise's voice. "Come and get us." 
     "We will, Denise. We will," Jessica said to herself. 


To be Continued in Operation Deliverance.