Date: Fri, 9 May 1997 17:11:47 -0400 (EDT) From: No One Important Subject: BG-TNG.002 BATTLESTAR GALACTICA: THE NEXT GENERATION The surviving MAIN characters are IMMORTAL!!! They cannot be killed, but they CAN be temporarily disabled/comatose, if you get my meaning. Crossovers are permitted, but BE CAREFUL!!! Remember that the Galactica cannot ever find Earth so that we can keep adding stories. Also, this takes place 17 yahrens after the original BG series, and of course, ignoring BG80. E-mail me at: jchin01@kepler.poly.edu Well, Here we go... #2 There are those who believe that life here began out there, far across the universe, with tribes of humans who may have been the forefathers of the Egyptians, or the Toltecs, or the Mayans. That they may have been the architects of the great pyramids, or the lost civilizations of Lemuria or Atlantis. Some believe that there may yet be brothers of man who even now fight to survive, somewhere beyond the heavens. BATTLESTAR GALACTICA: THE NEXT GENERATION THE NEW COMMANDER Written by Joe Chin Based on Battlestar Galactica Created by Glen A. Larson Apollo, Sheba, Starbuck and Boxey walked onto the bridge, meeting with the captains. Everyone watched him as he strolled across to the other side with the seven-thousand year old staff. Bojay said, "For a moment there, Commander Apollo, you reminded me of Commander Cain." Apollo looked at his right hand. "Oh," said Apollo. "This was a gift from the Chin Empire... It used to belong to Commander Adam seven thousand yahrens ago when they stopped there on their journey to Earth." He passed it to Bojay, who inspected it, and then passed it to Boomer. Boomer inspected it and passed it on to Greenbean. Apollo then spoke. "This was a very tough decision for me to make, Captains. The task of selecting a Colonel. We all have been in the academy together, and I have had the pleasure of working with all of you. And, I also need you all at your present positions. My first choice would have either been Starbuck or Sheba, but my wingmate for many yahrens and my wife, I felt that my judgment may have been biased. Boomer also performed well on the bridge. I also know that Greenbean, Jolly, and Bojay are all capable Colonial warriors." He took the Colonel rank pin and placed it on the console, and said, "So, I'm going to do this in a way that no battlestar commander has never done before. YOU will choose the next colonel." He then walked out, leaving everyone with their mouths agape. Halfway through the doorway, he said, "Call me when you all have made a decision." Boxey followed him out. Starbuck said, "Personally, I think that Sheba should be the next Colonel... with a father who is a legend." Sheba said, "We may be captains here, Starbuck, but we all have taken and obeyed your orders as if you were a superior by rank." Boomer said, "That's true..." Starbuck then said, "Well, Actually, Captain Omega should REALLY... be the next colonel..." Omega said, "I am happy as the chief engineer on the Galactica, Captain... Besides, if I become the next exec of the Galactica, there is no suitable replacement for Chief Engineer." Omega stepped up to the command deck, and sat in front of the console there. "Working with the engines and all this sophisticated equipment in front of me... is where -I- belong." Rigel, who was at her station, spoke up. "Omega... You've been up there at that command deck for at LEAST thirty yahrens... That should count for something." "I've been up here for thirty yahrens," said Omega. "But, I have also been in the Engineering section doing things for Doctor Wilker, because he cannot get around very well." Starbuck pointed out, "Well, what happened to that special hover chair that you and Boomer built for him, equipped with a CORA unit?" "He does not want to use it, because to him, it is a magnificent work of art for display." Boxey and Apollo sat in Boxey's room, watching the four kids sleeping on the floor with Muffey, using the daggit as a pillow. "Do you think that was wise father?" asked Boxey. "For all we know, they may try killing each other off until only one survives to be the colonel." "Well, I'm not sure if it was WISE... But, I know that they would not do that. We have worked together for too many yahrens for that, and from my time with them, I know that they would choose wisely. I think that if it ever came to it, I would have chosen Starbuck... But then, I probably would have wanted my wife beside me. It would have been a tough decision to make. All in all, I think that they will choose Starbuck." "Yes, Father... I believe they will." "You know, Boxey," said Apollo. "Omega rightfully should be the next commander really." "Well, he knows every system on the Galactica... its capabilities and limitations... But- I remember that he had turned down the rank of Colonel when Grandfather Adama died." "He turned it down, and then Tigh overlooked Athena and Rigel... so I thought... and offered it to me. I told him that he was lying when he said that it was offered to them, but it was not to be." "Yes, I heard that it scared both of them... Besides, Siress Tinnia had seen their performance on the bridge, and said that they were good at the jobs that they do, but neither of them was ready for a command position, such as that of a colonel." Back on the bridge, Sheba said, "Well, keep in mind that my husband did not really want the to be exec either. He really wanted to remain in command of the viper squadrons, and be out there with Starbuck. Personally, because Apollo and Starbuck work very well together, he should be the next colonel." "I agree with Sheba," said Boomer. "In ALL the yahrens of working with them, and Starbuck will be the best as Apollo's colonel." "Now," said Starbuck, who was pacing on the command deck. "My place is NOT trapped on this bridge... My place, is out there... in a viper, as Boxey likes to say, 'pulverizing the pogees'... out of Cylon fighters and flank missile launchers on some Cylon basestar." He walked over to Omega. "Actually, Omega should be commander of the Galactica, with his OWN colonel, other than Apollo or myself." Turning to Omega, he continued. "You... should be the next colonel; after all, you WERE the first choice for Colonel ten yahrens ago." "As I said ten yahrens ago, and I am saying it again," said Omega. "I belong where I am. I intend to stay where I am. I do NOT... want to be the next Colonel... But- I say that you are the best for the job, Captain Starbuck." "Why is-" Cutting Starbuck off, "Everyone who wants Starbuck as the next Colonel..." yelled Omega, as he got up on his feet, "stand up tall!" Everyone on the bridge stood up at attention, holding their heads up high. Starbuck sat down where Omega was sitting. Omega then said, "Anyone who does NOT think that Starbuck should be our next Colonel," said Omega. "Raise your hands." Starbuck raised both of his hands, and when he looked around, he saw that his two were the only ones up. Starbuck then said, "Sheba... You should be the next colonel, since Omega does not want it. After all, you married him, and you two haven't killed each other yet, showing that you two ARE compatible." "You work better with Apollo than I do, Starbuck," she said. "Besides, you are also married. Think of Cassiopea. Do you think that she LIKES seeing you going out there, going on dangerous missions? Think of her... Think of Dillon and Pandora. I think that they would be happier with their father on the bridge of the Galactica than out there." "Ah, Sheba. That worked on Apollo. Besides, he would be happier with YOU beside him. And, you also have to think of Troy and Helen." "I have been a viper pilot most of my life... Besides, Apollo learned the procedures of running a battlestar from Commander Adama, and then Commander Tigh. -I- learned from Commander Cain. Two entirely different men. Good friends like you and Apollo, but... Well, we would be incompatible as warriors on the bridge. If the Cylons attacked us, we'd be so busy arguing on what we should do that before we know it... the Cylons would- using Boxey's quote... 'pulverize the pogees' out of the Galactica and the fleet." Starbuck turned to Boomer. "Boomer... you performed remarkably well in command of the Galactica when Apollo and-" Boomer cut Starbuck off. "Well, I don't have a wife and family that has to be looked after by a husband and father. You do, Bucko. Besides, everyone voted for you, not me. If YOU were the commander, I would -GLADLY- accept the post as YOUR colonel, but YOU... are the right man for Apollo. You are his best friend, and you work better with him than any one of us." "All right," said Starbuck. He reached over, and took the Colonel's pins. Sheba removed one captain's pin, and Boomer, the other. They placed them on the console where the Colonel's pins were lying. Then they took the Colonel's pins out of Starbuck's hand, and placed them on Starbuck. "You will make a great colonel, Starbuck," said Omega, "And I look forward to working for you." He turned to Athena, and said, "Athena. Alert the commander that we have our colonel, and have him report to the bridge." Athena pressed a button at her post, and said, "Commander Apollo... To the bridge." Starbuck then said, "Well, there should be another promotion, namely Ensign Boxey. He held up VERY well in these times of stress, and did what he had to do." Sheba said, "I agree... If it was not for Boxey, I would have been locked away in our quarters, refusing to let Apollo in." "And our friendship would still be in oblivion," said Starbuck. "Those who think that Boxey should be made sergeant, please stand up." Everyone was on their feet. Just then, Apollo and Boxey walked onto the bridge, and Sheba handed him the staff he left there. "Have you guys decided?" Starbuck said, "Yeah... We choose Boxey." Everyone laughed, and Boxey blushed. Apollo saw that the Colonel's pin was no longer on the table, and looked at each of them, starting with Athena. He looked at Omega as well, but he was not wearing the Colonel's pins either. looked around some more, and saw that Starbuck was wearing it. Starbuck said, "We also took the liberties of choosing another one to train new viper pilots... We chose Sheba... if that was all right with you." Apollo nodded his approval. "I just have to check with the Council of Twelve... I'm sure that they will approve it." Sheba then said, "There is a viper pilot that really held up pretty well during a time of crisis, Commander..." She turned her head and looked at Boxey, who was standing beside Starbuck. She continued, "Especially while we had lost our heads over Commander Tigh's death." Apollo said, "Ah, yes. I'll be right back." Starbuck slapped Boxey on the back and said, "Nice going, Kiddo." Then Apollo came back out, holding a a black box in his hand. "Boxleitner." "Yes, Sir," responded Boxey. "I hereby promote you to Sergeant." Apollo gave him the pins in the box. His face lit up as he said, "Thank you, Sir." Apollo then said, "No one has ever made it to Lieutenant faster than you did, Boxey... Keep up the good work." Boxey looked at everyone around the room, and then back at Apollo, and said, "I had some fine teachers." That brought more laughter from everyone. Sheba then asked, "Is it over? I have two children to apologize to, namely, the younger son and the daughter of the Commander of the Galactica." "Yes, this meeting is adjourned," said Apollo. Everyone left, leaving Apollo, Boxey, Starbuck on the command deck, and Athena at her post on the bridge. Apollo's journal I now take command of the Galactica. This is my first journal entry. I just wish that I had this kind of honor of commanding a battlestar under better circumstances. Thinking back to it all, Omega really should have been the rightful colonel ten yahrens ago, and should be making this journal entry instead of me. But- he prefers to stay at his post as a bridge officer and chief engineer, and I support his thinking. No one knows the guts and works of this battlestar better than him and Doctor Wilker. However, Doctor Wilker is a scientist. Omega is an engineer. And, Doctor Wilker has no interest of being chief engineer, and in his condition, is not quite fit for it. Omega is right in saying that he is needed at his post. But he has worked closer with my father and 'Uncle' Tigh than I ever have, and he is very capable of commanding the Galactica. He just does not want it. To be truthful, I do not really want it either, but someone has to. And I have a wife and two children to think about as well. I really prefer to be out there, and on patrol or fighting Cylons along with my wingmate, Starbuck. As for my colonel, I would have probably picked Starbuck as well. All these captains here are qualified, but Starbuck is also my best friend, like a brother. I feared that my judgment would have been clouded by that, but at least, I know that I have the support of all my officers and viper pilots. The truth is, I did not really want to be colonel ten yahrens ago, but because Omega turned it down, and my wife, Sheba talked me into it, along with the support -I- had from my friends, as well as Tigh insisting upon it, I was honored to take the post. I hope, and am sure, that Starbuck is, too. The door beeped, signaling that someone wanted to talk to the commander. "Come in," yelled Apollo. The door opened, and Starbuck, and someone else, an elder man, clearly a member of the Council of Twelve walked in. "Ah, Gaylin," said Apollo. "Get him a drink, Starbuck." "Right away, Apollo," responded Starbuck. Gaylin held his hand up, saying, "That won't be necessary. I have to get back to give the rest of the Council your decision." "Decision about what?" "Well, we just wanted to make sure that you were taking command of the Galactica. I came to the Galactica personally, to congratulate you." "Yes, Gaylin. I have assumed command, and Starbuck is my exec," responded Apollo. "I only hope that I serve the fleet well." "You'll do fine, Apollo," said Gaylin. "You were the top of your class back at the academy, and alongside with Starbuck, the best viper pilot. As a matter of fact, it was your leadership that made Blue Squadron well-known throughout the colonies. Furthermore, you had served as exec under Commander Tigh with distinction." "As you do the best you can do as the leader of the council, I do my job the best as I can." "Ah, Apollo... you still haven't changed... still obsessed with duty. You were like that at the academy on Caprica, and you are still that way now. You got to get more relaxed." "Well, it did make me the top of my graduating class, Gaylin. You know, I could use someone like you on the Galactica... to help in training our new warriors." "I will consider it if I stop serving on the Council of Twelve for some reason or another, Apollo... BUT- the job has me busy as it already." "Well, when we met again thirteen yahrens ago, why did you turn down my father's offer to join?" "Because, I would never meet his standards. Besides, I felt as if... I let Caprica down. When the Cylons sued for peace, I, too, was so happy about it... that..." Gaylin's voice trailed off. "All those cadets... all the other teachers and colonial warriors that taught there... Only a few got off the ground to fight the Cylons, but were all- how do you say it?... 'Pulverized'... by those- as Commander Cain says- garmogging Cylons." "My father did not just offer you the position, you know... He actually begged you to help. After all, he saw what you made out of me... and then a few yahrens later, out of Starbuck, Boomer, Jolly, Bojay..." "And look at what became of your brother, Zac... he never returned from his first patrol." "That was MY fault, Gaylin... not yours. He did as well as any warrior could do out there. -YOU-... were not the one who left him out there in a damaged viper to warn the Galactica. -I- was. Besides, that could have even been Starbuck out there... Zac wanted to go out on patrol so badly..." Apollo trailed off." Apollo paused, and quickly changed the subject. "Well, Gaylin... my first duty as commander... was to lay Commander Tigh to rest, as it was his first duty with my father when he died." "I was there, Apollo. As a matter of fact, the entire Council of Twelve was there. It was a beautiful ceremony. And the Emperor of that Chin Empire spoke highly of Commander Tigh." "Well, Commander Tigh jumped him to save him. As a result, he was shot by the Cylon fighter." "That was very heroic, Apollo. I am sure that you would have done the same thing. But me, I think that I would have run instead. That was why I chose to work at the academy on Caprica instead." "Well, Sire. I doubt that. You do have Colonial warrior instincts, something that I have always admired in one of my best teachers at that academy." "Well, Apollo. I guess that I will be getting back later than I thought. Starbuck told me that there will be a celebration for your becoming commander and his being colonel in your officer's club. Stop mourning and be happy." "Well, Gaylin," said Apollo. "I'm still not in much of a mood for celebrating right now." "Commander..." said Gaylin sternly. "It is not a suggestion. It is an order from the interim president of the Council of Twelve." In the officer's club, Starbuck, Boomer, Sheba, Cassiopea, Boxey, and the officers were hanging around. "Congratulations, Starbuck," said Cassiopea. "Congratulations for what?" asked Starbuck sarcastically. "It seems that it takes the death of someone that I have worked with for so many yahrens... Someone that I grow close to..." He pointed to his colonel's pins. "... for these. It seems that... the way to get promoted... is to have someone that I grew close to die. I mean, I became viper Captain when Commander Adama died; he was VERY much a father to me..." "Come on, Starbuck. We've already mourned the loss of Commander Tigh," pointed out Sheba. Apollo and Gaylin walked in. Sheba walked up to Apollo, and hugged him. "I love you, Apollo," she said. Apollo held her, and said, "I love you, too, Sheba." Gaylin then asked, "Wasn't Sheba from the Pegasus?" "Yes, Gaylin," said Apollo as they went to sit down. "Commander Cain transferred her and Bojay to the Galactica seventeen yahrens ago. And now, she's my wife." Gaylin stopped to think. "Yes, Commander Cain's daughter... Silver Spar Squadron." Sheba looked at Gaylin, and said, "Oh, hello, Professor Gaylin." "It's 'Sire,' now, Sheba," corrected Apollo. "Oh, yes," said Sheba. "She is now the one chosen to teach and train whatever new Colonial warriors we can get. And, she is our viper leader." "Ah, yes," said Gaylin. "The cadets and the viper pilots are in good hands then. You know, when she was in the academy, everyone looked to her for help with their assignments, just as everyone looked to you, and then Starbuck. She's got her a good part of father in her, you know... just as you had a part of YOUR father, and your grandfather, in you." "Yeah, those were the good days," said Apollo. "We had homes in the Twelve Colonies, and places to REALLY do major overhauls on the battlestars whenever one was in order." "Well, Apollo, speaking about homes, when do you want the tour of the entire fleet?" "Right now may be good," answered Apollo. He turned to Sheba, and said, "Would you like to come with us?" "Sure, Apollo," answered Sheba. In the shuttle, Apollo asked, "You pilot your own shuttle?" "Yes," since I have the skills of piloting a shuttle and learned how to fly a viper, I do my own piloting. I even pilot the shuttle around the fleet to pick up the other six members of the Council of Twelve." "Interim president and shuttle pilot," said Apollo. Sheba and Apollo sat down in the pilots' seats in the front of the shuttle, and Apollo switched the switches for the engines. "Relax, Sire... Sheba and I know what we are doing." Sheba reached over, and switched another switch: a black box labeled, 'C.O.R.A.' Gaylin saw that, and said, "A handy device, that CORA. I have to remember to commend Doctor Wilker, Boomer and Omega for that invention." "Yes, Gaylin, it was one of the last major projects that came into existence before my father died," pointed out Apollo. "I have only flown in a viper with Cora only twice after the vipers were equipped with them, and only one of them was in combat with Cylons." The shuttle moved through the vacuum of space, passing a wide variety of ships. "I cannot believe it," said Starbuck. He was on the command deck on the bridge beside Boomer and Jolly. "What?" asked Boomer. "Well, it seems that Apollo's first order as Commander is, 'You're in command, Colonel,' and it is my first duty as Colonel to command the Galactica while Professor- I mean, Sire- Gaylin takes Apollo a tour of the fleet." Jolly pointed out, "Well, Commander Tigh did the exact same thing to Apollo when Siress Tinnia took him on his tour of the fleet. But actually, Apollo's first command as Commander was, 'pick the next colonel." Everyone laughed. "Actually," said Boomer, "the first thing was to gather everyone on the bridge." Everyone laughed again. "But- I don't know..." remarked Starbuck. "I guess that I wish I was going with him and Sheba. I wonder sometimes, how the people of the fleet are doing." The shuttle headed straight for the Celestra. *Sire Gaylin of the Council shuttle requesting permission to land.* In the landing bay, Gaylin, followed by Apollo and Sheba climbed out. Aurora and Damon greeted the Sire. "Sire Gaylin... Is there a problem with your shuttle?" "No, Ma'am... I am here giving the new commander of the Galactica a tour of the fleet, like we did ten yahrens ago." She looked to see Apollo and Sheba standing behind him. "Oh, Apollo... Are you the new commander?" "No, Gaylin is," joked Sheba. Everyone laughed. "Yes I am," said Apollo. He then introduced his wife. "And I believe that you know my wife, Sheba." "Oh, yes, Starbuck's wingmate after you became colonel," she said. "How is that Starbuck anyway?" "And Boxey?" added Damon. "Starbuck is the new Colonel now, and Boxey just made Sergeant. Also, Sheba started up Silver Spar Squadron again five yahrens ago, and became captain." Aurora said to Gaylin, "Between the six of us... meaning me and my husband, Damon, Starbuck and Cassiopea, and Apollo and Sheba, we ALL got sealed at the same time." Sheba then said, "And REALLY gave Commander Adama a run for his cubits... Three sealing ceremonies... all at the same time." The two ladies laughed, along with Gaylin. Damon approached Apollo. "You and Starbuck really helped us out a lot. Just let us know if we can do anything for you." "Well, before my father died," said Apollo, "he was talking about arming the other vessels in the fleet with anti-fighter laser turrets... just for in case the Galactica got destroyed or disabled. At least, the ships of the fleet can have a chance at fending for itself." "Oh, yes. Commander Tigh stopped it," explained Damon. "He wanted all available resources put into building vipers and keeping them at optimal performance." "Well, can you continue with building and maintaining vipers, AND getting anti-fighter laser turrets on the other ships of the fleet? Or will it be too much?" Damon stood there in silence. "If it is too much, Captain, tell me. We don't want another mutiny from too much work. Besides, too much to do tends to take from the quality of the work you and your crew and workers do. And if it is too much, we have about three vipers to every colonial warrior enlisted. And that includes the bridge and maintenance crew aboard the Galactica." Damon looked at Apollo with a crooked smile. "Well, Commander, we will do what we can. I guess that the first priority will be to see about the laser turrets." Gaylin, Aurora and Sheba followed Damon and Apollo to the bridge. "Well..." Aurora looked at Sheba's collar, noting the captain's pins. "... Captain, how are Starbuck and Cassiopea?" Back on the Galactica, Boomer said, "Our patrol should have been back by now." "Who is on patrol?" asked Starbuck. "Captain Jolly and Sergeant Boxey," answered Boomer. "Try contacting them..." ordered Apollo. "But that may reveal our location to any Cylons that may be nearby," said Sheba. "It is a risk we will have to take," said Starbuck. "All right," said Athena. Just then, they heard it. *Recon patrol requesting permission to land.* It was Jolly's voice. On the bridge of the Celestra, Damon announced, "This is Apollo, the new fleet commander." Everyone came over to him, patting him on the back, shaking his hand, and/or congratulating him. Damon said, "Seventeen yahrens ago, when I led the mutiny on the Celestra, he and Starbuck did their best to defend us. As a result, we got a light sentence for the mutiny." "Actually," said Apollo, "It was, then, Chief Opposer Solon who asked for leniency because of the circumstances that caused the mutiny." Damon said to Apollo, "But when it came to Charka and his men, Solon charged them with everything that could be thought of... mutiny, insubordination, catastrophic working conditions for the workers on the Celestra and other two industry ships... and the one that I thought that would not work, the murder of Commander Kronus." Damon and Apollo went to a station, and Damon pressed a few buttons. On the screen was a diagram of the Celestra. "As you see, Apollo, from when Adama had us working on finding places to put anti-fighter laser turrets on the other ships of the fleet, we did the three industry ships first. Then the agroship, one freighter and two of the tankers in the fleet were next. We got three of them installed on a third tanker when Commander Tigh put a halt to the project. He wanted us to build as many vipers as we can instead, and refit all the shuttles with the newer engines and lasers." Apollo said to him, "Well, since we have so many fully-equipped vipers already, we can stop building new ones, and start building laser turrets for installation on ships throughout the fleet. Oh yeah, and good job on the construction of the new engines and laser generators." "I cannot take credit for that, Sir," said Damon. "It was Doctor Wilker's theories, and Captain Boomer's and Omega's expertise that made it all possible." "But it was you and your crew who built them." "With plenty of help, Apollo... With plenty of help." "Oh, Apollo, have you visited the other industry ships?" asked Aurora. "No, I haven't. The Celestra was my first place to visit, basically, because I wanted to see how you and Damon were doing." "Well, one of them is a ship that converts mined tylium to liquid form that is used as fuel. It was also on that same ship that the prototype smaller propulsion generators were built for the vipers, and where they are still made." "Sounds good," said Apollo. "The third one," said Damon, "missiles are built, but it is a slow and tedious process. We are also trying to build a pulsar cannon. So far, we have the diagrams for a prototype, but a battlestar would probably drain half of its to fire it, and it would be as large as the industry ship when it is put together. The crew over on that ship is in the process of trying to try a smaller, more efficient version of it. It is also where we construct the laser turrets that we replace the Galactica with, and it will be built there for installation on the other ships throughout the fleet." "Sounds like you got everything under control, Damon," said Apollo. "Perhaps you should be promoted to Commander." "Thank you, Apollo," responded Damon. "Well, as you know, this is the electronics ship... Where we repair electronic troubles on a viper, build CORA units... Most of it is done by the crew and the workers on the ships." "Yes, I know," remarked Apollo. "From what I know, the crew people and workers on those ships really look up to you, Damon. Remember... A commander is only as good as those under his command." "Wise words, Commander," said Gaylin. Another stop for the new commander was the last surviving agroship, Agroship Nine. Sheba stared at it as they approached it in the shuttle, saying, "I cannot see too many places where anti-fighter laser turrets can be placed on this ship." "Well, there's one," said Apollo, pointing to it. "I see three," said Sheba, "Around the landing bay. But that dome is so exposed." Once aboard Agroship Nine, the trio were in the 'fields,' looking around. There was a man and a woman working, picking and cutting pieces of some of the plants off and placing them in some kind of container. The woman noticed the trio, saying, "Oh, Sire Gaylin... I did not know you were coming. May I be of assistance?" "I brought Apollo here... to introduce the new fleet commander," said Gaylin. "Ah, Apollo... the son of the man who started this journey of ours," said the man. "Life may not be all that great, but I am glad to be alive." Gaylin said, "Well, I have all confidence in the new commander to get us to where we are going, and make life better." They all watched as several people wheeled a cylindrical-shaped piece of fruit about the size of a person. "What is that?" asked Sheba, gesturing to that large object. "That is what mushies are made of," said the man. "Where are you taking it to?" asked Apollo. The woman answered, "We are taking it to-" She pointed to the freighter that was up close to the dome. "... that freighter for processing. But first, we need to await for an available shuttle." Apollo turned to Gaylin. "Can we take it over in your shuttle?" Sheba said, "Yes, I would like to see how mushies are made anyway." "Our shuttle is available," said Gaylin. The shuttle launched from the launch bay. Inside, Apollo and Sheba were piloting the shuttle. Gaylin said, "I never expected to be helping the fleet in transport of raw material, but you think of efficiency." "Well, why waste the extra fuel of another shuttle when WE can take it?" asked Apollo. "I see that I taught you well at the academy, Commander," responded Gaylin. Apollo, followed by Sheba, came up on the command center on the bridge. "So, Commander, how was your tour of the fleet?" asked Starbuck, with a half a smile. "Not too bad. The first stop was the Celestra." "How are Damon and Aurora doing?" asked Starbuck. "They're busy, but other than that, they are fine. Damon and Aurora really take pride in their work, and they run the three industry ships as efficiently as Commander Kronus did." "I hope that they are not running things the way Charka did," remarked Starbuck. "No," said Sheba. "They tell the crew and workers to try their best, and do as much as they can. Believe it or not, they also get involved in the work as well." "And we went aboard the agroship," said Apollo, "and the freighter where food is processed." "We actually got a tour on how mushies are made," said Sheba. "Other than that," said Apollo, "Sheba and I got to greet the many people of the fleet, but other than that... Well, there is more for our next shift, and maybe the one after that... and Sire Gaylin says that at the end of this, they will have a celebration aboard the Rising Star for us, Starbuck. 'Bring family and friends,' Sire Gaylin told me." "Siress Tinnia did the same thing for Tigh when he made commander," said Athena from her post. "Yes, but he was not interested in the celebration," said Starbuck. "He wanted to take command of the Galactica as soon as he could." "That he did," said Apollo, "but I think that was because of the fiasco with Boxey when my father died. You know, we had to interrupt his tour because of that." Boomer said, "Yeah, Boxey... He came a long way from being a boy with his mechanical daggit... He just made sergeant." Gaylin piloted the shuttle, with Apollo as the copilot, in silence. Apollo broke the silence between them. "Tell me, Professor, if you really had to, can you go out and fight in a viper?" "Well, Apollo, I don't think that I have to tell you that this shuttle has full laser capability... A pair of laser cannon pointing frontwards, and two pointing out the sides. I think that if I REALLY had to, I would stand a chance, but- my reflexes are not as good as you and your Colonial warriors. I mean, I haven't flown a viper since I graduated the academy." "Well, Gaylin, I haven't flown that much in ten yahrens... I think in all that time, I only had to fly a viper maybe five times, and that was only to transport myself from the Galactica to another ship in the fleet. I guess that I may have gotten... soft from being colonel for those ten yahrens." "Ah, but now, there is Cora to help you out." "Yes, that is true." They approached a freighter, and landed in the landing bay. Gaylin said, "As you know, Apollo, this particular freighter did get a full armament of laser turrets and missile launchers." "Yeah, good thinking. At least, it would give the Council of Twelve a fighting chance if the Cylons attacked it." "Yes, but I doubt that it would stand a chance against a Cylon basestar. The only thing that would stand a chance against that is a more powerful, sturdy battlestar, like the Galactica." Gaylin and Apollo climbed out of the shuttle, greeted by the other six members of the Council of Twelve, and Siress Tinnia. Siress Tinnia walked up to Apollo, saying, "Congratulations, Apollo." She held a hand out to him. "Following in the steps of your father, and your grandfather." Apollo only took her hand, staring at her. Memories of her pretty much flooded his mind, starting from when he first met her. {The entire Council of Twelve, along with Starbuck were clapping after Sire Domra announced that Commander Adama was to be awarded with the Star of Kobol, one of the highest awards to be given to a Colonial warrior, and an award that had not been awarded to anyone for over 1,000 yahrens. Apollo knew what was REALLY going on, as did his father. The Council of Twelve was taking back control of the fleet, but leaving Commander Adama in command of the Galactica. Adama would only have his vote on the Council. Also, a liaison to the Council of Twelve was to be assigned to the Galactica to oversee things, and it happened to be... her. When he heard that she walked right into Alpha landing bay despite Commander Adama's and (at the time) Colonel Tigh's objections for her safety, that hatred towards her turned into respect for her courage. Since then, she had spent more and more time on the Galactica with his father, and leaving him and many others wondering about whether or not they were going to be sealed. Despite the respect he had for her, the thought of having to refer to her as 'Mother' bothered him. However, that was not to be, because if they did become sealed, one of them, either his father, or her, would have to resign from the Council of Twelve, something that neither of them were willing to do. All in all, they just enjoyed each other's company whenever they could. The last time he saw her was at his father's funeral. At that time, she was elected President of the Council, but after the first meeting, she retired. "The Council of Twelve is not the same without Adama," Apollo remembered her saying to him and Commander Tigh, "and meetings of the Council of Twelve without him is too painful to bear."} Those words echoed through his mind when... "Colonial fleet to Apollo..." It was Tinnia. "Colonial Fleet to Commander Apollo." The entire Council of Twelve; actually, Council of Seven, because there are five unfilled positions; were laughing. "You blanked out for a centon there, Apollo," said Gaylin. "Apollo, could I speak to you alone?" asked Tinnia. "Sure, Siress, but where?" "Use my shuttle," said Gaylin. Apollo followed Tinnia onto the shuttle. The six members of the council sat in the passenger area, and Gaylin, Apollo and Tinnia sat in the front, with Gaylin the pilot and Apollo the copilot. Tinnia sat in the command area. As soon as they were seated, Tinnia said, "You really don't want command of the Galactica, do you?" Apollo sat there silently. "Apollo, it's me you're talking to... similar to talking to your close friend and fellow Colonial warrior, Starbuck... or even your father. I can also read you, Apollo. I mean, I have gotten to know you through your father, and from the centons that we had together." "Does it really show that much?" "Well, to me, anyway. I know, serving on the Galactica without your father there is very- how should I say it?... painful?" "Yes, it is, Siress. But after ten yahrens, I guess that I am used to it." "I know how you feel, Apollo, and I don't envy your position. At least, I was able to resign from the without too much consequences to the fleet." "You mean retire?" "I resigned, Apollo. The Council says 'retired' because they are just watching out for my dignity. And, if I know you, you feel that you are accomplishing more in a viper than on the bridge." "Yes. I mean, Omega should have been Colonel instead of me, but he just does not want it. Even then, you are both equally qualified. Besides, as many had said, 'Omega is where his expertise is most needed.'" "I have watched all of you perform your duties on the bridge. If the Council of Twelve performs as well as I have seen on the Galactica, everything would be a whole lot better for the entire fleet." The three laughed at that statement. "Yes, I agree with you that Omega should have been Colonel, and that he is ready for command, but he just does not want it. You, on the other hand, were in command of the viper squadrons when we left the colonies. You were still in command ten yahrens ago; you just did it from the bridge instead of your own viper. Now, you are in command of not only the viper squadrons, but of the entire Galactica... and because we are still under martial law, of the fleet." "Yes, you're right." "Well, you can tell Starbuck what I told you when you get back to the Galactica. Now, I think that it is time to show the Quorum that you are ready to take command." "Uh, yes," murmured Apollo. Back on the Galactica, Starbuck and Sheba stared at the scanner readings that were being fed up to the bridge from Athena's station. "All we need now are some Cylons," murmured Starbuck. "That's the last thing we need," responded Sheba, "with Commander Apollo off taking a tour of the fleet." "Our patrols have not picked anything up either," said Athena. "Who is on patrol, anyway?" Captain Boomer and Sergeant Cree," answered Sheba. A pair of vipers were moving forwards. *Tell me, Captain Boomer,* remarked Cree. *How are Apollo and Starbuck adjusting to their new positions?* *Well, Apollo is taking a tour of the fleet, just like Commander Tigh did when he first became commander, and Starbuck? He's probably either keeping everyone up on their toes on that bridge, if not spreading an epidemic of laughter.* *Or, trying to seduce the nearest pretty lady on that bridge.* The two pilots laughed. Boomer then said, *I doubt that... those days ended when he married Cassiopea.* The two of them laughed as the two vipers made U-turns. Back on the bridge, Starbuck said, "Have Boomer report to the bridge, so that Sheba can take the next patrol with Boxey." "Yes, Colonel," responded Athena. Back on the freighter, Commander Apollo sat at a large table in a room with the seven members of the Council. One of the other members of the council, he recognized as Solon. Solon was chief opposer when Starbuck was accused of killing a fellow Colonial warrior, Ortega. {Apollo was heading to the Galactica with Baltar from the prison barge when the real murderer, Pallon, whose real name was Charybdis, came out of hiding on the shuttle, and actually told Apollo and Baltar, and unknowingly, everyone at the tribunal over Alpha Channel, that he did it. He was about to kill Apollo, but Baltar socked him, and Apollo shot him in self defense. Later on, Solon and Apollo met again. "That was a real dangerous thing you pulled to prove Lieutenant Starbuck's innocence, Captain Apollo," Solon told him. "You must REALLY believe in him to risk your life like that. However, there is no need for another tribunal... It WAS a clear case of self defense, Captain."} They all gathered for the meeting. The seven members of the Council of Twelve sat, along with Apollo. Siress Tinnia stood in a corner, just listening and observing. "I like what you have planned, to arm all of the ships with anti-fighter laser turrets... It will give us ALL a fighting chance instead of us having to depend solely on the Galactica and her vipers," said one of the council members. "But- I think that we should try finding an inhabitable planet where we can settle, and then build more battlestars to fight against the Cylons." Five of the members of the council agreed. "It will take at least a yahren to construct a battlestar," argued Apollo. "We cannot build a battlestar on a planet surface, you know... it will never be able to launch. It is too massive to launch off the ground," said Gaylin. "Well, we can get whatever materials are needed, and build it in space," suggested Solon. "That, my friend, it not as easy as you think," said Gaylin. "First, we would need to build a space station, which will take SEVERAL yahrens, and even before that, we would need to use whatever raw materials we can find to construct the parts for the station..." "Well, what if Earth does not exist?" asked another Sire. "And, even if it does, what if their technology is not advanced enough to help us? Then we would have led the Cylons the last colony of Kobol, assuming that it exists, and their annihilation would be OUR fault." "But we don't even KNOW if Earth exists," said third Council member. The 'Oriental' looking Council member said, "Perhaps we should have settled on the homeworld of the Chin Empire then. Their technology is even more advanced than ours, and they would defend us. I saw how the Cylons kept trying to do damage to their battleships... Their lasers proved ineffective, and even their suicide runs had no effect on them. And their weaponry... Their lasers don't miss... They just slice up the Cylon fighters. You know, I am sure that they ARE also descendants of our forefathers from Kobol... They may even BE that legendary Thirteenth colony, but just refuse to admit or acknowledge it." Apollo sat in thought. "You know, Sire Yao, I had that same thought as well. Perhaps the people there ARE originally from Kobol... Perhaps, as YOU said, the Thirteenth colony, or perhaps, part of that fleet." "Well, why don't we turn this entire fleet around, and go back there?" asked another. "Because, their homeworld is already overpopulated..." explained Apollo. "If WE settled there, then..." he trailed off. "And even then, their way of life, their traditions and beliefs are so different from ours; I don't think that it would work out." "Commander Apollo has a point there," responded Gaylin to Apollo's explanation. Noticing the Council member next to Apollo sitting there, facing downwards with his eyes closed, he then said, "I recommend that we think about that, and reconvene tomorrow." The other members of the Quorum looked at the Sire next to Apollo sleeping, agreed. With that, the other five filed out of the room, leaving Apollo, Gaylin, and the sleeping Sire, and Tinnia standing in the corner. Apollo placed a hand on the sleeping Sire's shoulder, and gently said, "Sire?" "Huh?" responded the sleepy Sire. Gaylin said, "The meeting will reconvene tomorrow. Go back to your quarters and get some rest." "Oh, yes, Sire... By the way, what did I miss?" Back on the bridge of the Galactica, Starbuck said, "Not that again." "Yes," said Apollo. "They feel that either we should just settle on the next inhabitable planet we find, and rebuild. They even figured that we should build another fleet of battlestars. Or we should turn back and settle on the Chin Homeworld. I just wonder what Commander Tigh said to them that convinced them that we must move on." "But that would take yahrens to do," said Omega. "Assuming that the Cylons don't come and- as Boxey put it- pulverize the pogees out of us." "Well, Apollo, I don't know about you, but I think that I'd rather head back to the Colonies and try to take our worlds back from the Cylons," remarked Starbuck. Everyone laughed, but Apollo just looked at Starbuck with a serious look on his face. "What, Apollo? Did I say something wrong?" asked Starbuck. "No... I think that you just gave me a good comment to make to the Quorum; Thank you Starbuck." With that, Apollo gave Starbuck a pat on the arm, and then 'disappeared.' The meeting of the Quorum reconvened. "Well, Commander," said Gaylin. "The Council has voted... six-to-one in favor of ending martial law and taking back command of the fleet, and for putting an end to our quest for Earth. However, of those who voted, three say that we should settle the next inhabitable planet, and three say that we should return to the Chin Homeworld." Apollo then made his comment from Starbuck. "Then, why don't we just head back to the colonies, and try to take back our homes?" Siress Tinnia then said, "I may no longer be a member of the Quorum of Twelve, but- I need to address the Quorum." Gaylin nodded to her. "Fifteen yahrens ago, the Council made that mistake..." explained Tinnia. "The same mistake that you are making now. As a result, we lost four ships, which were destroyed by the Cylons as we abandoned a world that some of us attempted to settle on. Many on that settlement died, along with the entire Quorum of Twelve, except for Adama and myself." "I happen to agree with Commander Apollo," continued Tinnia. "Don't make the same mistake that your predecessors made and let your end your careers prematurely the way your predecessors did." "I guess..." said Gaylin, "that the vote is now six to two." "But she is not a member of the Quorum of Twelve anymore." "But she's right," said Apollo. "Think about it. Every time so far that the Quorum took control of the fleet, it led to disaster. First, the Quorum took command of the fleet, and then they turned into Baltar's hostages. Then the next time, the entire council was killed when the Cylons attacked the planet we were going to settle on, except for Tinnia and my father, and that was because they were both on the Galactica at the time." The Sire who fell asleep at the last meeting said, "I think that we should take another vote... because, I want to change mine in favor of continuing our quest for Earth as Sire Gaylin voted." "I second that," said Solon. "Me, too." "So do I" "Me, too." "All right," said Sire Yao, "I change my vote, too." On the shuttle, no one said anything. Siress Tinnia sat at the command area, while Gaylin piloted the shuttle with Apollo in the copilot's place. Sire Solon was also sitting one of the passenger seats in the back. "Well, don't everyone talk at once now," said Apollo. Siress Tinnia said, "You know, the last time I was on the Galactica was for Commander Adama's funeral." "Yes, well..." Apollo trailed off. "Are you OK?" "Yes, Commander." "You know, Siress Tinnia... you should have stayed on the Quorum." "Well, I just could not bear being at the meetings and seeing an empty chair where your father should have been." "Yes, it is understandable," said Apollo. "For a long time, I had trouble being on the bridge of the Galactica, without my father there. And, I was a colonel, so you know where that placed me when I had to go on duty." "That made it even worse for you than for me... because if you resigned the way I did... Well, your resignation even as captain of Blue Squadron would have a much harder impact on humanity than my resigning from the Quorum." Gaylin got into the conversation. "Well, Siress Tinnia... that chair still awaits you... All you have to do is... take that seat." "I'll consider it, Gaylin," she responded. Out the front window, the rear end of the Galactica approached. Gaylin pushed a button, and said, "Sire Gaylin of the Council shuttle requesting permission to land aboard the Galactica." *Council shuttle cleared to land in landing bay Alpha,* responded Rigel's voice. *Welcome to the Galactica.* The shuttle went into the landing bay, followed by two vipers. Tinnia, Gaylin, Solon, and Apollo came out of the shuttle as Sheba and Boxey climbed out of their vipers. The six approached each other. Apollo said, "You two went on patrol together?" "Yes, Father," said Boxey. "There was a reason that you two were placed on separate squadrons," pointed out Apollo. "I mean, what would happen if the entire patrol was captured and killed?" Sheba and Boxey looked at each other. Sheba looked back at Apollo and said, "Well it WAS our turn to go on patrol." Solon got into the conversation. "Well, think about it, Sheba... how would YOU feel if, perhaps Commander Apollo and Commander Cain went on a mission together, and both of them were killed?" "I see what you mean, Sire," responded Sheba. Boxey said, "Losing one loved one in the family is bad enough... but two..." He fell silent. "A wise young man, Sergeant..." said Solon. "Who's on patrol now?" asked Apollo. "Dietra and Jolly," answered Sheba. "They probably had just launched." "Well, one of you could have switched with them," said Apollo. "That was why Adama had you revive Silver Spar Squadron when we got sealed... to put us both on separate squadrons so that we don't end up launching together, except in emergencies. And, even then, we would be in command of two separate squadrons." "Actually, you were in command of all the squadrons, Starbuck was in command of Blue Squadron, and I, of Silver Spar Squadron. Besides, Apollo... I got sealed to you, not Boxey." Boxey failed to stifle a laugh, and Gaylin and Tinnia laughed. "True," said Solon with a smile. On the bridge, Apollo ran up to the command deck, followed by Sheba. "Starbuck, why did you allow Sheba and Boxey go out on patrol together?" asked Apollo. "I understood that it was only two people who have gotten sealed to each other, or brothers and sisters, father & son or mother & daughter, who don't go out on patrol together," explained Starbuck. "If it happened to have been... say, Captain Sheba and Troy, or Captain Sheba and Helen... then I would have taken one of their places... probably Sheba's place, and left her in command of the Galactica." "I suppose you would, wouldn't you..." said Apollo. "Just to get out there in a viper and off this bridge..." Everyone smiled, and Sheba and Boxey laughed. Tinnia approached the command deck. Starbuck also noticed Solon and Gaylin waiting below on the bridge. "What is Sire Solon doing here?" asked Starbuck. "He wanted to give us his blessing," said Apollo. Tinnia spoke. "I'd like to see both of you... in private." Apollo and Starbuck looked at each other, and Apollo signaled to a door. In the commander's office, Starbuck paced the room, and Apollo sat behind the table. Tinnia sat down. "You really don't want to be commander, Apollo, do you." Tinnia said that as a statement more than a question. "To be truthful..." said Apollo, "No." "Well, I am going to try to talk you into wanting it. I know that you two only accepted your positions because of duty, but-" "Why are you talking about it, Siress?" asked Starbuck. "Because, the entire fleet depends on you. I mean, you both say that Omega should have been the colonel ten yahrens ago, and should be the commander now. But- No one knows Omega. Everybody knows Apollo and Starbuck of Blue Squadron... It was the two of you who made Blue Squadron famous. Everybody looks up to both of you. So, not only is everyone on the Galactica behind you, the Council of Twelve is behind you, and so is everyone on the fleet." Apollo and Starbuck looked at each other. "You know that she is right, Starbuck," said Apollo. "I know... I am just going to miss flying a viper." "Now you know how I felt ten yahrens ago when I became Colonel." Tinnia interrupted. "And in case you have these thoughts, you did -NOT- become commander because your father was commander. I know that your father made you both earn your ranks up to captain just like everyone else... And he was probably harder on you than anyone else. So, Apollo and Starbuck... you both deserve to be in command. Congratulations." Apollo and Starbuck looked at each other. "She is right, you know," said Apollo. "I guess so," said Starbuck. "And, you haven't even flown a viper in combat for yahrens. So, for you, either you would probably have to start off as a cadet again, or be commander." "Yes, I know," responded Apollo. "So, you will both accept the responsibilities of command?" asked Tinnia. "I'm with you, Apollo," said Starbuck. "Yes," said Apollo. "I will take the position." He looked at Tinnia, and said, "If you take your place at the Quorum of Twelve." "Good," said Tinnia. "I think I will, Apollo. Good luck." With that, she walked out. Solon walked in. "So, how is the new command staff?" he asked. "Well, under the circumstances," said Starbuck, "OK." "I'm glad." Solon changed the subject. "You know, in all my yahrens as chief opposer for the people... you guys presented the most- how should I say it? -strangest ways of gathering evidence and proving yourselves?" Starbuck laughed. "When I was accused of the murder of Ortega, Apollo came up with the defense." "Yeah, a confession from the real murderer on Alpha channel," said Solon, just before he was about to kill Apollo." "You presented a great case as well, Sire," said Apollo. "with the mutineers on the Celestra." "Well, your father judged well in the workers' mutiny. -I- would have done the same thing under those conditions, and I think that your father would have, too." He paused. "No, he would have, as a man who would do what he did in saving as much of humanity as he could." "That's definite," said Apollo, "But adding the charge of murder of Commander Kronus to the list of charges against Charka and his men? Even -I- did not think of that, and even when it was brought up, I did not think that they would have been convicted for the murder charge. Now, Charka and his 'followers' have to spend the rest of their lives on that prison barge." "People like Charka..." said Solon, "are as bad as Cylons. I just thought of everything I could think of." He looked Starbuck in the eye. "You, Starbuck... it was just too convenient to just get you convicted upon the evidence. Besides, I was able to tell by looking at you that you were not the type that would just kill Flight Sergeant Ortega in cold blood. And if you did kill him, there was a valid reason behind it, such as self defense." "And now, you are a member of the Quorum," said Apollo. "I knew that you were a fair man, Solon... that was why I voted for you." "I did, too," said Starbuck. "Well, Thank you both... it has been an honor serving. But- I do have a question." "Yes, Sire?" "How is it that there is a Silver Spar Squadron on the Pegasus, AND another one on the Galactica? Was that in Commander Cain's memory?" "Well, seventeen yahrens ago..." Apollo trailed off. "I think my wife should explain this." He then pressed a button on the table, and said, "Captain Sheba, please report to my office." Sheba came in. "Yes, Commander," she said. "Sheba, Sire Solon asked a question about Silver Spar Squadron... How was it that there is a Silver Spar Squadron on the Pegasus, And on the Galactica." "Well, the entire squadron was transferred to the fleet," explained Sheba. "When my father had all non-essential personnel and injured warriors transferred to the fleet, he transferred Silver Spar Squadron, which consisted of Bojay and myself because we were both injured. He actually transferred the entire squadron. We don't really know what happened to the Pegasus, but many of us speculate that as the two Cylon basestars destructed, the Pegasus went to lightspeed and into deep space, just like he did at Molekai." Solon's face showed doubt, but: "Well, Captain Sheba, your father is a survivor. I'm sure that he is out there... somewhere, wreaking havoc on the Cylons." "I hope so," said Sheba. "Perhaps that was why since Adama died, we have not seen Cylons for so long... Perhaps he hit them where it really hurt, and they had to recover." "That would explain why they have not attacked us in ten yahrens," said Starbuck. Commander Cain must have hit them in some vulnerable area, and the Cylons had to put themselves back together before they could continue their pursuit of us." "That makes sense, Starbuck," said Solon. "But that is assuming that he DID in fact go to light speed after destroying those two basestars. If I know Cain, that is what he did. Like I said, that man is a survivor. Although the battle of Molekai did not go well, I was sure that he was out there, somewhere, in space, despite that everyone said that he had finally perished. Now, I am saying it again. He's out there... somewhere." "I would like to believe that did happen," said Apollo, "but we'll see." With that, everyone walked out of the room. In the landing bay, Apollo and Tinnia hugged, and then Tinnia and Sheba hugged. At the same time, Starbuck shook Gaylin's and Solon's hands. Then Apollo shook Solon's and Gaylin's hands. "Good luck, you two," said Gaylin. "You two have always worked well together," said Tinnia. "I know that you two will do well." With that, she walked towards the shuttle, with Gaylin and Solon following. They stopped to wave to them, and Apollo and Starbuck waved back. They got into the lift as the work crew moved the embarking/disembarking apparatus out of the way. They got off the lift, and started walking down the corridor. "You know, Apollo," said Starbuck. "Perhaps this being your Colonel will be great." "Well, we will both do our best together. You know, I think that in the end, I would have actually chosen you to be my next colonel anyway... Sheba is also fully qualified, but with her being under her father before coming to the Galactica, we do have two different points of view on how to run a battlestar." "You know... Sheba said that exact same thing to me when we were trying to pick the next colonel?" "She did?" "Yes, she did. I tried to talk Omega into taking the Colonel's post, but he refused." "Omega would have been an even better choice for colonel than me ten yahrens ago, but we DO need him right where he is... HE would have been the commander if he had been the colonel... And I probably would have been the colonel instead of the commander." "Yeah, but- he actually never had much experience with command. YOU and I, we have commanded Blue Squadron... for yahrens. First you, and then me. And Sheba had restarted and commanded Silver Spar Squadron for twelve yahrens... maybe more." They both turned into an open doorway, that led to the bridge of the Galactica. From the command deck, Sheba's and Omega's eyes followed them as they walked up the stairs to the deck. "Orders, Commander," said Omega. Apollo and Starbuck looked at each other. "Well, Colonel," said Apollo. Like the man says, 'orders?'" "Just keep doing what you were doing, Captain," said Starbuck. Laughter echoed all over the bridge. With that, the Galactica, followed by the fleet, moved forwards. After a generation of fleeing from Cylon treachery, the last battlestar, Galactica, leads a ragtag fugitive fleet on a long and lonely quest. A shining planet known as Earth.