BATTLESTAR GALACTICA TOUCHED BY AN ANGEL #2 Before reading this, Read BATTLESTAR GALACTICA: TOUCHED BY AN ANGEL Story #1 first. Keep in mind that this takes place at the same time that the infamous angels, Monica and Andrew, were taking care of things on the Galactica. It will also help to read the two BATTLESTAR ANDROMEDA stories first, available on on the crossover page at: http://www.GalacticaFanfic.com There are those who believe that life here began out there, far across theuniverse, 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 orAtlantis. Some believe that there may yet be brothers or man who even now fight tosurvive somewhere beyond the heavens. TOUCHED BY AN ANGEL Story #2 Written by Erin Gieg and Joe Chin A bright red unmarked Colonial shuttle floated, adrift in space. Unmarked crates filled the hold, and in the front, Tess, wearing a beige med-tech uniform, was in the pilot's seat. She pushed several buttons, attempting to restart the shuttle. Frustrated, she punched the auto-distress button, which lit up. "At least NOW, something works on this piece of space junk," she muttered to herself. "But I prefer my Cadillac." "Just... hang in there, Tess," said Sam, Tess's supervisor, who was sitting in the copilot's seat. "Your assignment will come to you. And with the victuals and medical supplies in the back, you will be most welcome." "Sam, why is it that I get the one lone ship? Instead of a fleet in which I could inconspicuously blend in with the people, and then take care of my assignment?" "You of all people should know that God works in mysterious ways, Tess," Sam replied. Tess nodded in agreement. "Now look at the viewscreen," Sam said. Tess inclined her head to see out the front window and spied a lone battlestar blazing a path through space. "Is that the Pegasus. Sam?" The copilot's seat was empty. ***** "Alert Commander Cain," said Tolen from where he was seated at his station on the command deck of the Pegasus. Tolen typed a coded sequence into the computer terminal in front of him. On the screen, the blinking 'AUTO-DISTRESS' signal blinked away to be replaced by the rapidly changing images of every known ship configuration in the Pegasus' computer memory. Finally, it showed the blueprints, front and side views, of a Colonial shuttle. The words 'COLONIAL SHUTTLE' flashed on and off below the schematic. "Commander on the bridge," someone announced as Cain stepped onto the command deck. Tolen looked back, and said, "Scanners have picked up a Colonial shuttle sending out a auto-distress, Commander. We are getting no propulsion readings from it." "Get me that shuttle on Alpha Channel," Cain said. "Executing," said Tolen as he typed out more code on the terminal. *Commander Cain,* said Tess. *Thank you for coming. I've been stuck here ever since I left the Galactica.* "I cannot believe that Commander Adama would just leave one of his shuttles behind like this," pointed out Cain. "Who are you? And how do you know who I am?" *My name is Tess, and I am stuck here with a load of victuals and medical supplies. I was sent with specific instructions to find your vessel.* "But how-" Cain began. *And about how I know who you are, EVERYBODY knows the history of Cain, illustrious commander of the battlestar, Pegasus. It is an honor, Sir,* Tess continued. "Well, It should be. Now, come aboard, Tess, and we will see what you can do for you," Cain went on, forgetting all about his last question." *My engines are completely dead, Commander,* Tess said. "All right, I'll send someone out to bring you in." *Thank you, Commander.* With that, the scanner picture faded, and Cain sauntered off the bridge, with Tolen following immediately after. ***** Cain and Tolen entered the lift. "Cain," started Tolen. "I volunteer for the job." "You haven't flown a viper in yahrens, Tolen, and I want no one else but YOU on the bridge." Cain tapped Tolen on his chest with his swagger stick. "Your knowledge and expertise of the nuts, bolts, bulkheads, widgets and wires of the Pegasus is more valuable there than you being out there in a viper." Cain said. "Besides, I have just the person in mind." "Who's that?" Tolen asked. "Hypnos, the new lieutenant of Silver Spar squadron. Even though we just picked him up a couple of sectares ago, he has mastered the art of the Viper pilot wonderfully," Cain said in rare praise of anyone. "Yes, but you cannot just expect one person to be able to tow in a shuttle. That requires at least two vipers," Tolen said. "Yes, well, I will be the other person," Cain said. "But sir," Tolen burst out. "But nothing," Cain snapped, "There's no danger involved; we're just going to tow in a shuttle. Besides, I've been feeling cooped up lately; the exercise will be good for me." Cain held the swagger stick out to him, and Tolen took it. Tolen knew better than to argue with the Commander when he was like that. He also knew that Cain was making him Commander Pro-tem of the Pegasus by handing him his pointer. The lift stopped in the launch bay. Cain stepped off, and the lift took Tolen back to the bridge. ***** "Launch control handed to you, Commander," said the dark-skinned flightcorporal into the mouthpiece connected to his headphones. Just then, Tolen walked onto the bridge, awkwardly carrying Cain's swaggerstick and took his place on the command deck. He placed the stick on the side of his station. Seeing Colonel Tolen walking onto the bridge with Cain's pointer in his hand, the entire bridge crew understood that Tolen was in command of the Pegasus. ***** The twin vipers flashed through the launch tubes. Once in space, the vipers approached the red shuttle. *Do you have thrusters at least, Tess?* Cain's voice asked. *I have NO maneuverability at all, Commander. All my engines are completely dead,* Tess replied. *Hello, Tess,* a new voice introduced itself on the comm channel. *Hypnos,* Tess said, a disgusted look on her face. *I might have known.* *We've got a private channel, for the time being,* Hypnos said. *WhileCain and I get hooked up to tow you in, we should have a nice chat.* Tess grunted. *I have nothing to say to you,* she said. *Well, I don't much appreciate you being here,* Hypnos said, *My job would have been much easier without you." *Well, I guess God has a different plan,* Tess smirked. *Now leave me alone, O fallen one.* Tess sat in her shuttle, holding onto her seat. Cain and Hypnos, once they had attached their towlines to the shuttle started out for the Pegasus. Tess grunted in frustration as the shuttle jerked, then finally began its trek to the landing bay. ***** After the shuttle and vipers had both landed, Cain climbed out of his viper and joined Hypnos in waiting just outside the shuttle. After a micron, Tess climbed out. "Sorry about the rough ride, Tess, but it was the only thing I could think of to get you in safely." "I am just grateful that you rescued me, Commander," she responded. "And the ride was not as rough as I expected when I figured out how you were going to get me aboard the Pegasus. Thank you." "May I be the first to welcome you aboard, Tess," Cain said, then turned to make his way out of the landing bay. Tess turned to Hypnos. "God will triumph," she said. "The sooner you get it, the better." ***** Cain walked onto the bridge, followed by Tess. Tolen picked up the swagger stick off the command station and handed it back to Cain, relinquishing his temporary command. "So, Commander, will you take me back to the Galactica and the fleet?" asked Tess. "I cannot do that, Tess. We are at war with the Cylons." "But Commander, I have to get back. And you have some... unfinished business to do there." "Tess, My business is here. I am protecting the Galactica and the fleet from the Cylons, not to mention Commander Andrea's ships. Every Cylon basestar I find, I must destroy it before it causes trouble." Tess realized what Cain was referring to when Cain mentioned Adama's sister's fleet. That assignment was the one that Sam had gone to cover, probably one of the very few that as her supervisor, Sam had, or would ever go out to take care of himself. Cain looked at Tess, misinterpreting her facial expression. "Yes, there is another fleet of humanity out there, led by another battlestar, and we have to keep the Cylon forces split three ways, because we cannot afford a united assault of the Cylon Empire on all of us at once. Just three battlestars and the entire Colonial fleet of unarmed ships will not survive a united Cylon assault. Even I would not dare take a chance like that." "You have a destiny to fulfill, Commander." "I make my OWN destiny, Tess." "Commander, the war with the Cylons is over for the time being... as of a yahren ago. You have a daughter that needs her father. And you are a man who needs to be with his daughter." That got Cain. "Tolen, show Tess to her quarters. Make sure that she has all the accommodations she may need..." ***** Tess walked into her quarters, as Tolen stood by the door. "So you need anything? I'll get something from the Officer's Club for you if you are hungry or thirsty, Siress." "No thank you, Colonel," responded Tess. "But what I need is for us to get to the Galactica." "That is up to the commander," said Tolen, "but if you need anything I can assist with, I'll be on the bridge." With that, the door to her quarters closed as Tolen walked away. "My, my," said a male voice behind her. Tess turned around quickly, and saw Sam. "Sam, this human is more stubborn than I imagined." "That is why you are perfect for this job," Sam said. Tess rolled her eyes. "As you know, he is very angry for the destruction of his home, and the Twelve Colonies," explained Sam. "As well as the FIfth Fleet that he was in command of three yahrens ago. Once he has himself set out to do something, it is very difficult for ANYONE... to change his mind. In this case, he has had a little help in that decision." Tess glared at him. "Why was I not told about Hypnos?" she demanded. "God has a time for everything. Just remember that Hypnos, and his master, are already defeated. You're right, Tess, this assignment IS a difficult one. I would not have been able to accomplish it, but you can. First, you have to get Commander Cain to trust you. Remember, as I said, Commander Cain is angry for the destruction of his home, and he is out for revenge. It is up to YOU to change his mind." Suddenly, the entire room shook. "What was that?" asked Tess. She looked around, and found Sam gone. She sighed, "I really don't like all this space stuff." Then she briskly walked out of her quarters. ***** Three Cylon tankers floated in space, ready to engage the Pegasus. Around the Pegasus, vipers and Cylon raiders were having it out. Three Cylon fighters were swarmed around the Pegasus, firing at various vital points. A battlestar laser turret fired, but at the same time, the Cylon fighter in the center of its formation fired a few shots as well. The laser rounds from both sides hit their marks, and the turret was destroyed at the same time that the fighter in the center exploded. A viper then pursued the other two Cylon fighters. After firing several rounds, one of the Cylon fighters was hit and disappeared in a flaming ball of tylium, but the other one crashed into one of the Pegasus' landing bays and exploded. ***** On the bridge of the Pegasus, Tolen said, "Fire in Alpha Landing Bay. It is controllable." "Well, contain it and our pilots will have to land in the other landing bay. Just make sure that those gallmogging Cylons do not get NEAR that one," Cain said. ***** In the landing bay, several men were spraying the fires with fire extinguisherfodder, trying to douse the flames emanating from the area. After they got their job done there, repair crews would be down to repair the damage. ***** Tess made it to her desired destination, the Life Center. "Casualties may be coming in. Are we ready for them?" she asked. "We ARE all ready, but I can always use some extra help here," said an aged man in white. "That's what I'm here for. I'm Tess." Tess had worked in hospitals of the Thirteenth Colony in the past as an angel, but usually as a nurse. The main difference between a Colonial med-tech and a Thirteenth Colony nurse, mainly, was the medical technology, and therefore, procedures for different treatments. Furthermore, a med-tech performed some of the duties that a Thirteenth Colony doctor would usually perform on patients. "Ah, the lady that Commander Cain rescued," remarked the old man. "I am Doctor Kilas." "Well, Doctor Kilas, I brought some medical supplies aboard my shuttle," said Tess. "Have they been transported here yet?" "Yes, but they haven't been unpacked yet. Perhaps you could get that started; I believe we will need some of those supplies. They are a God-send." "They sure are," Tess said, a broad grin on her face. A squadron of vipers closed in onto the three tankers. *Just make sure that when we board, that we shoot Cylons,* ordered Captain Hobb. *With all that tylium being carried in these tankers, hit the wrong thing, and...* *Understood, Captain Hobb,* remarked another pilot. ***** Aboard one of the tankers, two pilots jumped out of their viper cockpits and drew their laser pistols. After surveying the area, they both removed their helmets and threw them into the cockpits. Quickly extricating themselves from the ships, they backed into each other, gave a terse nod of acknowledgement, and made out towards one end of the bay. They quietly walked to the front of the tanker, each the rearmost warrior covering the other. They made it to the control center and saw that there was only one Cylon Centurion sitting in the seat on the left side, facing the front of the tanker and away from them. "Hi, I'm the captain of the vipers blowing the pogees out of your fighters," Hobb quipped. The Cylon Centurion slowly turned around his mechanized body not responding fast enough for its safety. Both men opened fire on the Cylon, causing an eruption of sparks from destroyed electronics. "Now let's get this tubful of tylium to the Pegasus," remarked Hobb. "Hey, Hobb, do you know how to handle this thing?" "I thought YOU did!" The two of them broke out laughing. "Don't worry," said Hobb. "Lieutenant Sheba taught me three yahrens ago. And then I taught Bojay." "Thank the Lords of Kobol," remarked the other man. The two of them chuckled again. ***** Cain waited with several of his warriors, who had their lasers drawn in readiness. One of the newly landed viper pilots was carried on a stretcher by two med-techs headed toward the Life Center. The three tankers had just landed, and their engines had powered down. The warriors by Cain tensed as the side hatches opened. A Colonial warrior emerged from one tanker and stood holding his hands in the air in a non-threatening motion. "Don't shoot," he said. Several of the warriors let out sighs of relief, and then they holstered their laser pistols. Hobb climbed out of one of the other tankers, along with his wingmate. Cain had a satisfied look on his face. "You did it, Captain," he said, "of course." "Two died out there, and two severely injured, Commander," responded Hobb regretfully. ***** "Get him in this stasis tube," Tess said as the med-techs brought an injured warrior into the Life Center. The two med-techs put the stretcher down and with Tess's help, lifted the injured warrior, and placed him in the open tube. Kilas said, "This person is Morris, our head med-tech. See what you can do for him." "I will do all that I can," said Tess. Another person, confined to a stretcher, was brought in. "Over here," said Doctor Kilas. "It is only my arm," the warrior said. "Take care of Morris." He looked over at Tess, and said, "Who are YOU?" "The med-tech that Commander Cain rescued," said Kilas. "Tess, hold him down for me. This should not take long." Tess gently held the warrior down, and said, "We will have you all better in a few microns. All we can do is wait with Morris." "Morris is our head med-tech," he said as Kilas moved the device up and down his arm. "Morris will be all right," responded Tess. "He is not as bad as he looks, but he will need time for his injuries to heal." Commander Cain walked in, along with Captain Hobb and two other Colonial warriors, one of who was Hypnos. Tess frowned. "Commander on deck!" someone announced. "How are they?" asked Cain. "I am all right," said the warrior, now sitting up and moving his arm around. "And how is Morris?" "He looks worse than he really is," said Doctor Kilas. "Commander, I must protest your taking med-techs and sending them into battle like this." "Doctor Kilas, I needed all the fighters I could get out there," explained Cain. "In case you haven't noticed, we are woefully short of warriors; we have been ever since Gamoray. We need those three tankers... the supplies, and especially, the fuel in order to survive." "All the more reason to get to the Galactica," said Tess. "Or even that other fleet that you mentioned." "Tess, we cannot do that," explained Cain. "For the reasons that I mentioned before. And both commanders of the flagships probably hate me as much as they hate the Cylons." "It seems to me like you want to destroy the Cylons, and are presenting those reasons as excuses, Commander. I know we ALL want the Cylons extinct, but I think that deep down, you really want revenge. It will NOT undo the destruction of the Colonies. It will only get you and your crew killed, and the Pegasus destroyed or captured." "You are out of line, Tess." "Am I?" argued Tess. "As yourself that question, Cain. And ask yourself; 'is that med-tech that you rescued REALLY out of line.' You can lie to me, and you can lie to your crew, and you are probably lying to yourself, but it is yourself that you have to live with in the end." Cain stormed out of the Life Center. ***** Cain walked into his quarters and placed his swagger stick onto the table at the other end of the room. After removing his flight jacket, he sat on the bed, and then laid back. He was fast asleep as soon as he was stretched out. "Father, I need you," said a familiar female voice. Cain looked in the direction of the voice, and saw Sheba, standing by the door. "You abandoned me on the Galactica, Father. You sent me away, but I need you," Sheba continued saying. "Sheba," Cain responded as he reached out to her. "I sent you to the Galactica for your safety." "I am a Colonial warrior, Father," argued Sheba. "Just like you. Supposed to be... Captain of Silver Spar Squadron of the Battlestar Pegasus." "Sheba..." "Father, I need you..." "Your daughter needs you, Cain," said a deep male voice from the other direction. Cain turned his head. "Adama?" "You abandoned us, Cain," said Adama. "Why did you leave us at Gamoray?" "Adama, I HAD to leave you... To make the Cylons split their forces. And to fend off..." "You abandoned the remnants of man, Cain," said Adama. "You even abandoned your own daughter." "And you abandoned your son, Cain." This woman's voice came from another direction. Cain turned his head looking behind him. "Andrea?" He stared at the woman who looked like an older version of Athena, dressed in a blue bridge officer's uniform with Commander's pins on her collar. "And you abandoned the woman you love," said Commander Andrea. "And your son, Father," said another male voice. He walked up and stood next to his mother. "Zane?" "You left us, Cain... Father... Please..." "I HAD to leave you. I left a message for you explaining all that." "Commander Cain, come to us. We need your expertise. We need your tactical wizardry." Standing next to Sheba were Captain Apollo and Lieutenant Starbuck. "Apollo?" "We NEED living legends like you, Commander," pleaded Starbuck. "Especially those like ME, who do not have many attachments. And think of Cassiopeia." "Cain, please..." Cassiopeia was next to Adama. "You abandoned all your friends and the people you love," said Tess. "Tess, as I had told you..." "You've better get back to them before it is too late," remarked yet another voice. "Who... are you?" asked Cain. It was Andrew. "I know you," muttered a surprised Cain. "You were the one who took many of my fellow warriors away from me. You are... DEATH!" Cain started backing up. "GET AWAY FROM ME!" Cain jumped up from his bed, so hard that landed on his feet on the floor, standing up, and a look of horror on his face. He was shaking, and took a deep breath, trying to regain his composure. A rap sounded at his door. "Who is it?" "It is Hypnos," the reply came. "What does he want," Cain muttered to himself as he made his way to the door, shrugging into a robe. "Enter," he yelled out. Hypnos entered the room and shot a sympathetic look at Cain. "Bad dream, wasn't it?" Cain was hard pressed to find out how the man had known about his disturbing vision. He had come to know Hypnos quite well in the sectars since he had come aboard, and had learned that there was much more to the man than it seemed. Taking Cain's silence for acquiescence, Hypnos started towards a nearby chair. "May I sit down?" "Oh yes, of course," Cain nodded, still puzzled. "This Tess isn't necessarily right, you know," Hypnos said. "What do you mean?" Cain asked. "I think your job is to keep the Cylons away from the others; who better for the job? Besides, don't they deserve it? After all that they've done, what gives them the right to any mercy?" "Yes," Cain said, his head clearing. "What right do those gallmogging tin-cans have?" "You're doing the right thing," Hypnos said soothingly as he got up and approached the door. "I should let you get some rest; I just wanted to let you know what I think." Cain nodded absently, not stopping to wonder why it was so important that he know what Hypnos thought at this exact moment. Hypnos took his leave, and had Cain been watching more carefully, he would have seen the self-satisfied smile on the face of the other. ***** Tess sat in her quarters, poring over some reading material. Suddenly, Monica was there, wringing her hands and looking distraught in general. "Hello, Angel Girl," said Tess. "Tess," said Monica. "I messed up; I cannot believe what I just did! And I don't even know how it happened! It just- I just-" "Slow down, Angel Girl. Then try again. I hope that Apollo did not get himself killed." "No, Tess," replied Monica. She took a deep breath, and continued. "Nothing of the sort, but I just- he has become infatuated with me. And he actually thinks that he loves me." "Oooo..." said Tess. "That IS a problem. How did THAT happen?" "Well, I managed to become a psych-tech, or a psychological counselor on the Galactica, and Apollo was my first patient. I just finished my first counseling session with him." "And did it help?" "Yes, it did but-" "Now is the time to get Adama to assist you," said Tess. "How?" "Well, you know how it seems that parents seem to know who is the right one for their children? And as somewhat unusual it is, Apollo takes his father's advice seriously. Well..." "I think that I understand," responded Monica. "Good, now get back to your assignment so that I can get back to mine. Don't worry Angel girl. You can do it." ***** Tolen walked onto the bridge, then up to the command center. The officer on duty said, "Nothing to report, Colonel." "Fine, and thank you. You may go." "Thank you, Sir," said the officer. "Colonel, where is Commander Cain?" "He will be along shortly," said Tolen. "Go have a drink at the Officer's Club. Just relax for now and enjoy your furlon." "Thank you, Sir." With that, he started walking, and then stopped. "If you need me, I'll be in the Officer's Club as ordered." Tolen gave him the 'thumbs up.' After the officer was gone, Cain strolled onto the bridge. Tolen looked at him. There was something wrong; Cain was walking in empty handed. As soon as Cain had reached the command deck, Tolen got a closer look at him. "Are you all right, Commander?" asked Tolen. "Just had a hard night, Tolen." "It must have REALLY been a tough night, Commander. You even forgot your pointer." "Ah, Tolen, I was running late, and I just did not have a chance to grab it." "Commander, you don't look good. You've better go to your quarters and get some more rest. I'll let you know if anything happens." "I am all right, Tolen," Cain snapped. "I think I know when I need more rest." Just then, Doctor Kilas and Morris, along with Tess entered the bridge. Cain heard Tess say, 'You abandoned all your friends and the people you love,' as she had said in his dream. Although it was loud and clear, he also saw that her mouth was not moving. "Commander?" inquired Kilas. "You look like you've seen a ghost. And you look as if you had to evade the Cylons on an entire basestar just to get to the bridge." "I am all right, Doctor," said Cain. "I just had a hard night." "Commander," said Doctor Kilas. "I want to make Tess our chief med-tech." Cain stared at Morris, who still looked quite weak. Morris said, "She knows her way around a Life Center, the nuts and bolts of the human physique, and I have learned a lot from her in just one cycle. I could almost refer to her as 'Doctor Tess.' Besides all that, I am not up to resuming my duties full time yet, and someone needs to fill the position." "Even -I- learned from her, Commander," claimed Doctor Kilas. "All I need is your approval." Cain shook his head to clear his mind. "Commander, take your time to think about it. It will only be temporary, until we can get her back to the Galactica." "If you think that it is the right thing, Doctor," said Cain. He placed his hand on Kilas's shoulder. "I think that the right thing is for you to get some rest." "I will handle things here, Commander," said Tolen. "All right," said Cain reluctantly. With that, he reluctantly walked off the bridge. ***** "I tell you, Tess," said Morris. "I have never seen the Commander so... spooked." "Well, he has left his daughter behind on the Galactica," said Tess. "And the last I had heard about her, Lieutenant Sheba needed her father." "Lieutenant?" asked Kilas. "I thought that she was going to be Captain." "No, Doctor Kilas, she is included on Blue Squadron's roster as a lieutenant." "Tess, since we are working together, please, just call me, 'Kilas,' OK?" ***** Cain's Journal We are going to have a new head med-tech on the Pegasus. The med-tech, Tess, was found in her shuttle, almost out of fuel, her engines completely dead, but she was rescued. She managed to have saved our chief med-tech, Morris, from his death. There is something about her. She wants me to join Commander Adama and his fleet, using my daughter, Sheba, to get me to go back. There are several problems with that. The main problem with going back is that Adama and I, together, will never survive a united assault by the Cylons. Cylon baseships that have not been after him are after me, and if we were together, that would give the Cylons only one place to converge on. The other problem is that because I ran out on Adama upon the destruction of the two basestars in the Kryllian System, he will probably have me put before a tribunal and convicted as a traitor. I know that I would if I was in his place. Then there is the lovely Commander Andrea. The Cylons probably do not know about her. If I join her, I will end up endangering both her and her fleet. Besides, I would probably at least get another slap in the face for leaving her the way I did. She probably feels that I betrayed her by relieving her of her command, the way I did, and then leaving. And the last thing I need is to lead the Cylons to her. I just hope that she has had a better time. Perhaps she has already found Adama. Still, I cannot get Tess's words out of my mind... ***** Hypnos leaned over Cain's shoulders, whispering in his ear as the Commander dictated his logs to the computer. He frowned as Cain added the last sentence. Then, sure he had influenced the man enough for now, Hypnos promptly disappeared from the room. Cain looked about. "That was the oddest feeling," he told himself. "I could have sworn that I felt someone in here." ***** "That man is a very lonely man," commented Tess. "Yes, he is," said Kilas. "But he is one of the finest warriors ever known to the Twelve Colonies. "Doctor... Kilas, when was his last checkup?" "Checkup?" "Yes," said Tess. "When was the last time you examined Cain?" "That's 'COMMANDER Cain,' Tess," corrected Kilas. "It was only a few cycles ago." "And how WAS he?" "He does seem to be under some stress, but being on the edge of his seat the way he is..." "He likes it," concluded Tess. "Exactly, Tess. If we take that away from him, then..." Kilas trailed off at that point. ***** Tolen walked into the Officer's Club and found Cain sitting in the bar area. "May I join you, Sir?" asked Tolen. Cain waved his hand vaguely toward the empty bar stool next to him, and Tolen took the seat. "Your usual, Colonel?" asked the attendant. "Yes, if you please." Cain and Tolen watched as the bartender poured some liquid into a mug, and then placed it in front of Tolen. Tolen took a swig from the mug, and then asked Cain, "Are you all right, Commander?" "I am fine, Tolen. Just that nightmare I had that keeps annoying me. I cannot seem to shake it." "Maybe if you tried to talk about it... I'm a good listener." Cain took swig out of his mug. "Well, I cannot remember exactly what happened in the nightmare, but... it has to do with Adama, Sheba, Andrea, and something keeps telling me that I should take the Pegasus and go back to the main Colonial Fleet that is under the protection of the Galactica. And Sheba seems to have a lot to do with it." "Commander, I lost count of how many Cylon basestars we have managed to destroy, and all the way out here away from the Colonies, there are not all that many of them. If you want us to rendezvous with Commander Adama, I'll support it." "Tolen, our work is far from over. As I had told Tess, we cannot join Adama OR Andrea, at least not yet." "I understand, Commander." "I know that destroying every gallmogging Cylon will not bring back those who lost their lives on the Twelve Colonies, but I want to try and get rid of as many as I can first, before others suffer the same fate. I mean, the Hasaris, a thousand yahrens ago were hunted down to extinction by those blasted tin cans. Then a yahren ago, they attempted the same thing with the Twelve Colonies; at least a handful survived. And then the Delphians... Fifty million living, breathing sentients, and now they are extinct. Who is next? I want it to be those tin-headed, gallmogging Cylons! Before they converge on another innocent race." Doctor Kilas and Tess walked into the Officer's Club, interrupting Cain'stirade. "Morris will recover in a few cycles," said Tess. "As you said," Kilas said, "his injuries were not as bad as they looked, but they will take time to heal." "That it will, Doctor, but I am going to need YOU to help me out when Morris gets tired." "Me? Help YOU out?" asked Kilas with a smile. "I thought that you were supposed to help ME out." The two of them laughed. "So, how is the new chief med-tech doing?" asked Cain. Tess and Kilas looked at Cain. "Quite well, thank you," said Tess. "The crewmembers of the Pegasus that you have treated say that you have done wonders, Tess," remarked Cain. "It is an honor having you on board." Cain tried valiantly to mask his apprehension at her presence. "It is an honor to be here, Commander," commented Tess. She held her hand out to him. Cain shook her hand politely. "Welcome aboard, Tess," he said. "Thank you, Commander." With that, Cain exited out, followed by Tolen. Tess spotted Hypnos over in a corner of the room. She frowned at him, and he grinned broadly. ***** "She has a way of getting to our people, Cain," said Tolen. He and Cain were walking side-by-side down a corridor. "That... she does, Tolen," responded Cain. "But somehow, I think that there is something different about her; something almost unsettling." The two of them continued their walk in silence. Cain stopped. Then Tolen halted, and turned to look at Cain. "Could she be a Cylon spy?" asked Cain. "Perhaps those tin cans constructed a Cylon that LOOKS like a human? And even SOUND human?" "According to Doctor Kilas, she is human," responded Tolen. "But knowing about someone like Baltar, I will have someone keep watch over her. The last thing we need is a Cylon spy. And, Cain, I will see you on the bridge for our next duty cycle." ***** Aboard a Cylon basestar, two Cylon Centurions walked into the command room. After they were through the doorway, the glass double doors closed behind them, emanating the sound of scraping glass. "By your command" said one of the Centurions. The large chair on top of the pedestal turned, revealing an I.L. series Cylon seated there. "Speak, Centurion." "Our fuel and supply convoy has not arrived yet... They are two centars late" "Perhaps they ran into trouble. Take us out, and we will go to meet our convoy on the way here. We need that fuel and those supplies," the I.L. commander said. "I must point out that we have almost a maximum fuel load... except for the fuel that we had to use to get here... and plenty of missiles for when the Galactica reaches our position" "But I just got word from Commander Lucifer that he was forced to retreat," responded the I.L. "And the other basestar was destroyed. He is now on his way back to the motherworld to get his baseship repaired and to replace lost fighters. We are only one basestar, and I want to be as ready as we can for the Galactica when it arrives. That extra fuel and supplies and the escort fighters will become necessary when we mount our attack on the Galactica and that pitiful fleet. Centurion, let us meet our convoy." "By your command" The basestar moved off. ***** A pair of vipers streaked through space. "Morris was supposed to be my wingmate, Captain Hobb," commented one pilot."How is he coming along?" "He will recover, but in the meantime, other pilots will have to take his place on patrols," responded Hobb. "Hey, just a centon. I am picking something up on my scanner, Captain." "Me too," said Hobb. "All I am getting is interference, but I have activated my Warbook." Suddenly realizing what it was that he was picking up, Hobb yelled into his helmetcom, "GET OUT OF HERE! IT'S A CYLON BASESTAR!" The two vipers quickly made a U-turn and fired off their turbos. ***** "Report, Tolen," said Cain as he marched onto the bridge with his swagger stick in hand. "Our patrol picked up a Cylon basestar heading this way, Sir," responded Tolen. "I have been maneuvering to stay out of their sensor range." "Battle stations!" ordered Cain. With that, the lighting became red, and alarms sounded vessel-wide. ***** "Not again," said Kilas in frustration as the alarms reached his hearing. "I am going to have a talk with Commander Cain," exclaimed Tess. With that, she began walking out. Kilas stopped her, placing his hand on her shoulder. "Don't, Tess. It will only make things worse." "I must get out there," claimed Morris. "No you are not, Morris," responded both Tess and Kilas. They both stood in front of him, blocking his path. "You are still recovering from your injuries," said Kilas. "But I am still capable of flying a viper," claimed Morris. "No, you are not," said Tess. "Now either stay put or I'll put you under stasis." Kilas said, "She's right, Morris. You are still healing from the wounds and injuries that you got from the last time." Morris sighed. ***** The I.L. series Cylon walked onto the bridge of the basestar. "Report," he demanded. "A momentary blip just as we disengaged our lightspeed engines... Other than that nothing to report..." "Send out a patrol, just to be sure," said the I.L. Cylon. "I want those three tankers found." Another Centurion said, "By your command" Then he turned to his station, pressed a button, and said, "Duty patrol to the launch bay" ***** "We may not survive if we try to take on a basestar, Commander," pointed out Tolen. "We do not have the viper capacity to handle a basestar's complement of fighters." "Back away, and recall our patrol." said Cain. "We need to come up with a plan." "Executing," said Tolen. He handled a few controls at his station, and then he barked, "Recon patrol, return to the Pegasus." *Yes, Colonel,* was Hobb's response. ***** "I think that we should back out, and join the Galactica," pointed out Kilas, "As Tess had suggested. We are out-manned, and possibly outgunned here." "That is NOT an option, Doctor," responded Cain. "Commander," Tess cut in, "we are understaffed in many sections of the Pegasus. You transferred all nonessential personnel to the Galactica. Now all we have left is essential personnel. Personnel, I might add, that are not accustomed nor experienced in viper warfare." "Enough, Tess," said Cain. "Commander, I agree with Tess," threw in Kilas. "I have an idea," said Hobb. All eyes were on him. "Yes, Captain," remarked Cain with a bit of annoyance in his voice. "It may be especially dangerous for whoever volunteers to perform this, but I think that it may be our best chance," explained Hobb. "What we can do is take one of those captured tankers full of fuel back to the basestar, which is probably why it is here." Tolen interrupted, "He makes sense so far. That basestar is probably looking for their shipment of fuel and supplies." "My thinking exactly, Colonel," said Hobb. "What I propose is that we send someone out in one of the fuel tankers over to the basestar... with solenite explosives of course. He would set the solenite explosives, and then just before the tanker enters the basestar's landing bay, he would take off in a viper concealed in the tanker. When the tanker is in the basestar with all that tylium..." "Excellent plan," Cain said "But too dangerous." "It is the best chance we got, Commander," responded Hobb, "And you know that." "Commander, he's right," said Tolen. "You are out of line," Cain retorted angrily. "But you are right. And who do you propose to carry out this dangerous mission?" he asked. "Me, Commander," said Hobb and Tolen in perfect harmony. "I have the best chance of making it back alive," said Hobb, staring at Tolen. "Besides, Colonel Tolen is more essential to the crew of the Pegasus than I am, and he has not flown a viper in yahrens." "I cannot allow that," said Cain, looking at both Tolen and Hobb. "It is the only thing to do," said Hobb. "I will go," responded Cain. "-I- have a better chance of getting back alive than anybody on the Pegasus." "Your place, Commander, is on the bridge of the Pegasus," objected Tess. "She's right, Commander," commented Tolen. "If it weren't for you, we would not have survived Molecai or Gamoray." "Gamoray," started Cain. "Our survival there was because of those two Blue Squadron vipers that YOU scanned, Tolen... taking out the flank missile launchers on those two basestars." "I am not as essential to the survival of the Pegasus as you are, Commander," said Hobb, a bit too strongly. "You expect me to buy into that? You are my squadron commander, for Sagan's sake," barked Cain. "I'll go," remarked Tess. "What?" said Kilas as all heads turned toward her with shock evidenced on their faces. "You are NOT a Colonial warrior," Tolen said to Tess. "And I doubt that you know how to handle a viper," said Hobb. "It IS very different from handling a shuttle." "But I am not as essential to the operation of the Pegasus as each of you are," Tess threw back at Tolen and Hobb. "You are essential to the lives of the crew of the Pegasus," Kilas said. "No, you are, Doctor," retorted Tess. Kilas just stared at her, not knowing what else he could say. "She's got you there, Doctor Kilas," pointed out another officer. "Tess, I want to speak with you," said Cain. There was a centon of silence, while everyone waited for Cain to begin talking. Tess just stared back at Cain. "Well?" "Alone." Everyone got up and left the room. Tolen was the last one out. "We will be right outside, Commander," he said. Cain nodded to Tolen, and then turned and stared intently at Tess. "Do you know what you are volunteering for? It seems to me that the only flight experience you have had is piloting a shuttle. There would be no chance for you to maneuver a viper to evade the laser turrets firing at you as you make your escape. Even the best viper pilots would have trouble getting out of a mess like that." "Yes, Commander. I know. But you need Captain Hobb to lead your viper squadrons. And you and Colonel Tolen are the most essential people for the survival of the Pegasus." "I agree with that there, Tess, but I also need my chief med-tech," Cain said. "Morris is your chief med-tech, and Doctor Kilas is in charge of the Life Center. I am just someone that you found in a shuttle loaded with victuals and medical supplies. Cain, I am here to help you out." "That's COMMANDER Cain." He stared hard at her, as if trying to see through her. "It seems that you gained popularity among my crew, enough that many insisted that I include YOU in on this meeting." "Commander Cain, as I said..." "There is more about you that I don't even know about. So, I ask you. Did Commander Adama send you? Or are you a Cylon spy? Yes, you probably want to bring that fuel tanker to that basestar, and then have the basestar attack us. Knowing one man named Baltar... Who are you, really?" Tess was suddenly surrounded by light, a light so tangible that Cain could feel its warmth, its peace. Cain stared, in shock. "There is no need to fear, Cain," said Tess. "By the Lords of Kobol," remarked Cain, surprise evident on his face. "I am an angel. Sent by God. The Cylons did not send me. Adama did not send me either. But if he knew that the Pegasus was so close, he probably would have sent someone to get you," she said. "Why did He send me an angel?" "Because God loves you, as he loves ALL his children. He wanted you to know that, Cain." "If God loves ALL his children, then why did he let 'His children' on the Twelve Colonies be destroyed? So many of us died. And ONLY about two-hundred seventy ships and three battlestars from all the Twelve Colonies are left of us all!" "That was NOT part of God's plan, Cain," said Tess. Cain noticed that she did not address him as 'Commander,' but he felt that it was not in his right to demand she do so, after this revelation. Suddenly, Hypnos was there. "Really, Commander," he said. "Are you going to believe this felgercarb? God no more cares for you than I can cook." Cain started, and half-turned toward Hypnos. "Where did you come from?" Cain asked. "I am trying to be the voice of reason here." Tess turned and shot a withering glare at the man. "You can just shut up," she said. "You have no place here. You're not wanted." "Do you want me here?" Hypnos directed the question at Cain. "The original Cylons were the ones who built those machines," Tess went on, ignoring Hypnos for the moment. "Some of the living Cylons had turned to evil, and built the machines to fight against their fellow living Cylons. After awhile, their machines turned on them. That was the price of their evil; they would not allow themselves to be redeemed." "But can God do nothing about those Cylon machines?" inquired Cain. "They ARE evil. And if God cannot do anything about them, then why?" "God does not work like that. He does it through his people, like you. But you have already done YOUR part... for now. It is now time for YOU... to focus on something good, such as your daughter. And no, Adama will not prosecute you for running out on him. As a matter of fact, he really hopes to see you again, as does your daughter. Andrea understands; she knows that you meant well, and she, too awaits your return. But... you MUST see your daughter, Cain. She needs you now." "Well, what of that basestar?" Hypnos broke in. "Yes, what of the basestar?" he asked mockingly. "Is it just going to go away. You see, Commander, Tess would have you, no! God would have you do nothing." Cain paused to think, a troubled expression spreading across his features. "Like I said, I will take care of that with one of the fuel tankers you captured. I have my new assignment already, back on Earth, and my work here is coming to an end. The rest is now up to you. Besides, how else can you explain my disappearance? Other than saying that I am an angel and had to leave to take on my next assignment? The word on you is that you are crazy, but it is what gives you your advantage. Can you imagine what people will say if you said that you were visited by an angel?" "Yes, what would they say?" Hypnos asked. "You don't need to listen to this." "I see your point, Tess, but what do I tell my crew?" Cain now totally ignored Hypnos' presence, having recognized him for the deceiver that he was. Tess turned to Hypnos. "You are not wanted here. Go from whence you came," she ordered. Hypnos' image faded away into darkness. "Fitting," Tess said. "From darkness he came, and to darkness he shall return." The two of them stood there, staring at each other in silence, Cain contemplating all that had just happened. "Did you say, 'Earth'," he asked in sudden realization. "Yes, Cain. Earth is no fable," explained Tess with a smile, "as most of you from the Twelve Colonies believe. It is as real as the Pegasus, and as that basestar out there. Well, let's tell them. And, remember. The truth is, I talked you into letting me go out there, Commander. That is what you will say to your crew. And believe me. You are doing the right thing by letting me handle that basestar." "Yes," said Cain. He continued to stare off into space. ***** Many gathered around Tess as she walked towards the Cylon tanker in the landing bay. Tess carried two small black boxes in each of her hands. These boxes were packed with the solenite explosives. There was an orange colored glass bubble of a light to indicate when the explosive was set, and another button close by to set the charge. Cain was right next to her. "Tess," he started. "Is there any way of talking you out of this?" "No, Commander. You can order me, but I'll be insubordinate and go out there myself anyway," she said. "Besides, I don't think that kind of order applies to me." Tess winked at him. "If you try to replace me, I made Doctor Kilas promise me that he will relieve you of your command because of, 'medical reasons.' And he WILL carry out what he has promised me, as a man of his word. Cain, believe me." "You have to launch the tanker and then let me land the viper inside the tanker," he explained. "Then take the tanker back into the landing bay so that I can get out. Then..." Cain trailed off. "The rest is up to me; I know, Commander." With that, they shook hands, and she climbed into the Cylon vessel. ***** "These are the main thrusters," explained Cain. They were in the cockpit of the tanker, and Cain was explaining the controls to her. "As you know, Tess, we humans like to use a control stick. But these gallmogging Cylons..." He reached over, and turned a dial that was set into the middle of the console. "This is how this tanker is maneuvered," explained Cain. "I know, I've had experience with these systems before. The thing is, one little accident with all that fuel..." "I understand, Cain," retorted Tess. "Well, you turn it this way..." He turned the dial counterclockwise. "To turn left, and the other way to turn right. Then you pull it towards you to go upwards..." ***** "What is taking them so long?" asked Hobb. "Commander Cain is probably explaining how to handle the tanker," responded Tolen. "And a viper," finished Hobb. "This is going to be a long goodbye," one of the bridge officers joked. ***** "Good luck, Tess," said Cain. "I will take your advice." "Thank you for your help in getting me familiar with this tub of tylium." "Do you know how to handle a viper?" asked Cain. "Yes I do, Commander. I know; it is very different from handling a shuttle, and of course, this tanker. I will have the knowledge when I need it." Tess gave Cain a hug. "Remember, Cain. God loves you..." ***** The tanker was in place moving forward to the rendezvous. The Cylon patrol squadron met up with it, providing escort. A green button began to flash on the console, and Tess pressed it. "Duty patrol to tanker" It was a Cylon Centurion's voice coming out on audio. Tess remained silent. "Duty patrol to tanker... where are the other two ships" "Communications are malfunctioning" said the Centurion at the rightmost station of the Raider. ***** On the Cylon basestar, a Centurion walked into the command center. "By your command" he said. The throne turned, and the I.L. Cylon sitting on it ordered, "Speak, Centurion." "One of the tankers have been located... It is not known what happened to the other two" "Contact the vessel and ask." "The lead fighter of our patrol attempted to communicate. The exercise was unsuccessful." "Order the patrol to escort it aboard. We will get the information we desire from the pilot." the I.L. said. "By your command" With that, the Centurion left the command center. ***** Tess sat in the pilot's seat of the tanker. Cylon fighters surrounded the ship, escorting her back to the basestar. Rising, she went to the back of the tanker, climbed into the open cockpit of the viper, and flipped some switches. The viper's thrusters began to hum in readiness. Tess made her way toward where she had left the solenite charges and selected one. She then placed it against the rightmost wall. Doing the same with the other charge, she quickly walked to the tanker's viewscreen. The basestar grew larger and larger as she approached it. When the landing bay was visible, she pushed a few buttons on the console, then went back to the cargo bay. She pushed the button on one of the solenite charges, and the indicator light went on. She went to the other charge and repeated the procedure. Then Tess climbed up to the top of the ready viper, and climbed in, quickly putting on her flight helmet. The cockpit closed. ***** Just before the tanker entered the landing bay of the basestar, a viper launched out of the tanker, firing off its turbos. Since the tanker was in the lead, that left almost the entire Cylon patrol squadron to go after the lone viper. The tanker went into the launch bay and exploded. That explosion triggered the tylium contained in its hold, and the entire basestar disappeared in a massive fireball of three explosions. ***** On the bridge of the Pegasus, Hobb exclaimed, "We must help her!" "Go on, Hobb, take a squadron out there and get her back here safely." With that, Hobb took off running. ***** "Launch," Cain ordered. A finger hit the turbo button on the control stick. The viper flashed through the launch tube. Seconds later, another one launched, until entire squadrons were formed in space. These vipers sped towards the scene. The Cylon Raiders were at a disadvantage because of the scores of other crafts that had been destroyed in the fireball. As the Colonials approached the fray, a torpedo hit the underside of Tess's viper. The approaching vipers opened fire on the Cylons. The Pegasus reached attack velocity and its laser turrets also began to fire at the Cylons. Despite help from the vipers and the Pegasus laser turrets, it came too late for Tess. Her viper lost speed due to smoldering electronics. A rogue Cylon Raider fired upon her viper and Tess was no longer present in the physical realm. ***** "Three Cylon fighters taking cover by our main thrusters," reported a bridge officer. "Are they being pursued by vipers?" asked Cain. "Yes," said Tolen. "I suggest that we fire the main thrusters. The output will incinerate the Cylon fighters." "And our fighters as well," said Cain. "Warn them off first." Tolen pushed a button. "Pegasus to Hobbs and Ramon. Disengage pursuit and fire turbos away. We are going to fire our thrusters..." ***** "You heard the Colonel," Hobbs said. The two vipers veered away, hitting their turbos. The two Raiders headed toward the Pegasus, into the propulsion area firing their lasers. Just as the main thrusters came on, the two fighters crashed into the propulsion system. Exhaust seeped from the area, but it stopped as abruptly as it started when the two Cylon fighters exploded upon impact with the Pegasus. ***** On the control deck, the entire area shook as Tolen hung on to his station just to stay in his chair. Cain dropped his swagger stick as he stumbled, waving his arms around, trying to keep his balance. "What happened?" asked Cain, when things settled down. "I think that we fired our thrusters a micron too late, Commander," Tolen said. "Engines went dead, Commander," a bridge officer reported. "I'm going to inspect the damage," said Cain. With that he bent down and recovered his stick, and walked away. ***** Out in space, the Pegasus floated, not moving at all, much like Tess's red shuttle before she was rescued. Cain stood in the landing bay, staring at the red shuttle. The lift behind him the background brought four people down. Despite the sounds of their footsteps as they stepped off the lift, Cain did not turn to see who it was. It was as if he did not hear them. "I thought that we would find you here, Commander," addressed Tolen. "May we join you?" Without turning, Cain waved an affirmative to them with his hand. Tolen, Doctor Kilas, Morris and Hobb stood beside Cain, also staring at the shuttle. "She was a fine officer," commented Morris. "Yes, she was," acknowledged Hobbs. "I failed to get her back safely, as the Commander ordered." Cain turned towards Hobb. "You did as well as anyone could have done, Captain." He understandingly placed his hand on Hobb's shoulder. "I cannot ask anymore than that." "With her stubbornness, she Cained Commander Cain," remarked Morris with a half smile. "What is THAT supposed to mean?" asked Cain. Tolen had his hand over his mouth to stifle his laugh. "Don't get upset, Cain," commented Kilas. "You are not the young man that you used to be when you first set foot on the Pegasus, you old war daggit. And you don't want to put a strain on that pump in your chest." "Now look who's talking, Old Man Doctor," responded Cain grin. "You DO seem to be a bit out of line." Everyone laughed. Tolen finally broke the silence that followed. "Commander, I just wanted to report that the crew anticipates that the Pegasus' repairs will be done by early next cycle. They will keep at it until repairs are complete." "I know, Tolen," responded Cain. "I offered my help, but they politely declined it." "I did, too," said Tolen. "I was told, 'thanks but no thanks.'" "Engineers are funny, Tolen," said Cain. "They work a lot better when left alone," commented Tolen, "than with a member of the command staff. Even if commander or exec happens to be an engineer." "Doctors and med-techs are the same way, Tolen," responded Cain. That made Kilas and Morris turn their heads towards Cain. "And you ARE probably one of the more competent engineers on the Pegasus." "I am not really an engineer, Commander," explained Tolen, "But I did oversee the overhaul and repair of the Pegasus engines after you and your crew burned them out trying to get back to the colonies when your wife died." "And you also had your hands in everything along with the rest of the repair team," commented Cain, "So I heard from Commander Andrea before she was assigned Commander Pro-tem of the Pegasus during my leave." "The crew loved her," commented Tolen, "But it was not the same as the crew feels about you, Cain. You have kept us alive for three yahrens, without any help from the colonies, Commander Adama, or Andrea." "That's where you are wrong, Tolen," said Cain. "Andrea sent crews to help out with the repairs right after we took on heavy damage from those two basestars' lasers at Gamoray. And if it was not for those two Blue Squadron pilots, Captain Apollo and Lieutenant Starbuck, there is NO telling what those Cylon missiles might have done to us." "Are you sure that those two vipers WERE Starbuck and Apollo?" "Well, from what Commander Andrea told me from that sixth sense of hers, yes. And the way those two vipers flew, those two are the ones who gives Blue Squadron its good reputation." "Yes, Commander Andrea did seem to have a sixth sense." "I know. That is what helps to make her a good commander." The dark-skinned flight corporal walked into the landing bay. Everyone turned to him. "Colonel," started the flight officer. "Your assistance is required on alpha deck." "Go on, Tolen," said Cain. "Don't worry, Commander," responded Tolen. "The Pegasus will be up and running again as soon as we can get it fit. They estimated that it would be about two or three cycles." "I know, Colonel," responded Cain. "But when we do complete the repairs, we will go find Adama." "Yes, Commander." Tolen grinned broadly, then followed the flight corporal out of the landing bay. ***** Tess was stood in a corner of the landing bay, watching the interchange. "Don't worry, Commander, help is on the way," she said. No matter than Cain could not hear her words. "Your work is finished, Tess." She glanced around, and saw Sam, Monica and Andrew standing behind her. "You are right, Tess," said Sam. "Help is on its way." "Who?" asked Tess. "Somehow, I know that they will have help, but..." "MY assignment," said Sam. "MY... assignment is done as well, and that is where help will come from." "I don't think that we've seen the last of them," said Tess. "I doubt that, too, Tess," said Monica. "Will they make it to Earth?" Everyone looked at Sam. "I cannot tell you," answered Sam. "At least not yet." "I know that -I- will see them again," said Andrew. "Yes, you will," pointed out Sam. "But at least not the entire bunch ofthem all at once." The four angels broke out in laughter, and the sound of it rose up to the heavens. Healing was beginning on board the Pegasus, and that was cause for celebration. ***** Fleeing from the Cylon tyranny, the last battlestar, Galactica, leads a ragtag fugitive fleet on a lonely quest. A shining planet known as Earth.