Blackstar Rising - Fan Fiction

[Reaper]

Dracul stood in the Baseship’s communication center, waiting for communication from the Imperious Leader. Stuka stood behind him. The Comm Unit came alive and the reptilian visige of their Leader filled the screen. “By your Command!” both Cylons spoke as one.
“You are to abandon your search and head to Gammoray immediately. There has been a battle there. An Ovion Hive Ship has been destroyed and an entire Attack Phalanx of Raiders have disappeared. I am dispatching every Baseship The Empire can spare to that Sector. It would seem the Empire has a new enemy. Perhaps this is related to the reports Lucifer has made concerning glowing ships of unregistered speed. The possibility that you are chasing a few renegade Colonials can wait till we know what has happened on Gammoray. Never forget we are still dependent on the tylium supplies coming from that planet. I am also ordering the search for other Tylium deposits closer to Cylon to begin.”
“We will leave for Gammoray Immediately Imperious Leader. The Enemies of the Empire shall not stand a chance. May I ask what support we can expect there?” Dracul asked.
“I have dispatched 3 Freighters to deliver a new Phalanx to the Basestar in the System, which is currently sharing the single Phalanx that was stationed on Gammoray. Including your Baseship, there are 2 Baseships heading to Gammoray from the Empire. I am trying to pull 3 more from deep space exploration, but only 2 of them are responding, including Lucifer. The 2 are setting up to entrap whomever it is challenging us, I have assigned Lucifer to command the entrapment. I have also heard from the Ovions. They are sending 4 Hiveships, including their Queen’s ship. You will have a taskforce equal to the Force that destroyed the Colonies, plus the Ovions. If it is simply more Colonials, I expect you to destroy them quickly. If it is something else, I want them destroyed just as quickly. Make timely reports and get this done.”
“By your Command” again, spoken by both Dracul and Stuka at the same time. Dracul looked back to the command Centurion and pondered the situation. “Gammorary is once again the object of fighting. Repairs are still underway from the combined assault of the Galactica and the Pegasus. This is not good. I do not even think the Anti-Assault batteries are completely restored.”
“It would appear that the Galactica group has returned to Gammoray. Lucifer has reported he cannot find any trace of the Galactica and its Fleet.” Stuka reported.
“So, you discount the reports Lucifer made of these Ship of lights? Interesting. Lucifer was unsure of their intention, and at no time were any of our craft engaged. Perhaps you are right. Or perhaps we miscalculated how far ahead of us that Force that Struck Kobol is. Could they have reached Gammoray? But then again, a Hive Ship and a Phalanx of Raiders is A lot of damage. If any Colonial Group had the ability to deliver such a beating, why have they not engaged our forces prior to this?”
“Perhaps the Pegasus survived Gammoray” Stuka added
“I will have to add these variable to my study. But we have our orders. I would expect you are already heading towards Gammoray, don’t let me hold you any longer Stuka.”
“By your Command”

[Reaper]

Captain Edan was tired, and more than likely needed a shower. Maybe even 2. But then again the Warriors assembled in the room with him had been on duty just as long and working just as hard to defend the fleet. Assembled were the Senor 3 Warriors from every Squadron in Commander Cain’s Fleet. From Blackstar Squadron right down to Pirate Squadron. Every active Fighter has spent the last 400 Centons fighting off a combined fighter group of Cylons and one of its Alien Allies. Communication intercepts, decoded with the programs Cain had used all those Sectars ago, indicated that the Allies were the Ovions. That inspection species Adama ran into on Carillon. It would seem they were working much closer with the Cylons now.
Fortunately, the Fleet never encountered any Baseships at all. Although it was confirmed that there were 2 Cylon Baseships in orbit around Gammoray, and 2 unidentified Baseships, tentatively identified as Ovion in nature were patrolling the sector. That was a lot of potential threats to the fleet, and possibly could have destroyed the Colonials if Cain hadn’t already been listening to communication intercepts between the forces. The Colonial fleet had plenty of warning what to expect. Numbers wise at least.
“Ok, I know you are all ready to return to your ships and either Sleep then clean up or clean up and sleep, so I want to make this quick. First, Commander Cain is confirming that the unidentified Ships were all Ovion in origin. I am sending you all every file we have on this species. I looked it over on my way here. It’s not pretty. It seems they use living beings to feed their young in the infant stage. The Galactica Fleet ran into them on Carillon, but nothing since. We’re guessing that after the loss of that base, they are working closer with the Cylons, trying to find a new breading stock. “
Edan let that settle in, then he added a bit more. “This is why we believe they were using some sort of Ionizing weapons. The beams, instead of destroying our fighters, overloaded the systems and shut all systems down. According to the Med Techs, it also did the same thing to the Warriors in those Vipers. But initial reports put only 10 percent of our casualties in critical care. The rest should be back on duty shortly. Back long before their Vipers, if I can believe the initial repair reports. A lot of systems will need to be rewired and energizers replaced. The damaged parts can be rebuilt to work, but it’ll take time. It’s also because of this that we only lost 4 Warriors to the Cylons. Memorial services will be held within the affected Squadrons. I ask that I be notified so I can be there for them all. I will fly out to each Ship as required.”
I’m told Damage to our Capital Ships was minimal. This was where the Cylons concentrated their fire, and Alpha bay on the Pegasus will be under repairs for a while, but it should not affect Probe operations.”
“I want to thank each and every one of you. Because of you we were able to put a hurting on our enemy and come away with 3 Cylon Tankers and 2 Munition ships. We are well stocked for fuel and weapons for the foreseeable future. Navigation reports that we have made the jump to Lightspeed and we’re traveling in the same direction as the Galactica intended to after the 1st battle of Gammoray. We will be making short jumps to see if we can find signs of any course changed Galactica would have made, but I am confident, as is the Commander, that we are still making up ground on them. I, Personally, expect to join up shortly. Unofficially, it seems there is a betting pool opening up. Command has not mentioned it, so let’s do ourselves a favor and keep it quiet and reasonable. Also, whoever may or may not be running it, see me later, I want to place my bets.”
That made the Officers laugh a bit, relieving some of the stress. Hearing that most of those who were shot down during the battle will not only survive, but return with their Vipers lifted spirits. It was something no Warrior was used to. Combat where even the fallen were not only able to return home, but to fight another day.
Ok, that’s it. I know you people shuttled over here. I am hoping your shuttle pilots are well rested, cause if you are as tired as you all look, I’m going to confine you to the Pegasus for a sleep cycle.” Again laughs, “Seriously though, No accidents now, if you are that tired, and you have every right to be, we will find you a bunk to get some rest before returning to your ships. All request should go to Lt Hermes there. He drew the short Straw prior to the briefing.

With that, All the Warriors broke up and began leaving the room. From this point out their Journey would be entirely new. No markers, no Log from the Galactica to show them the way, and the possibility that the Cylons and Ovions could be following the fleet. Patrols would be stepped up. That was a given, but tensions might be up a bit as well. What this fleet needed was some good news.

At that Exact moment, 3 Vipers were racing ahead of a rejuvenated Fleet. Lt Erc was leading the Long range recon probe from the Orion Ship. The Orion was running just at the edge of the Excaliber’s scanner Range, and the Viper Recon was now extending that even further.
Erc Smiled and opened the short Range comm. “You know I still can’t believe it. What were the odds. The Sunflare. I mean, that ship is OLD! Older then the Columbia even.”
Lt Knightstar, laughed and replied, “I don’t care what those odds were, imagine the Odds of them arriving at Gammorary exactly when that Ship was going to launch an assault on us? All our Scanners were focused in system, not on what could be coming up behind us.”
FlCpl Tiana, The Junior warrior in the group shock her head. “Had you guys studied that Mural on the Prophesy, it does kinda make sense, it wasn’t spelled out, but it does figure after the fact.”
“I still don’t buy the predetermined Fate implication of that Mural. But I’m warming up to it. But there is still along search ahead of us. And if we don’t start doing our job, we may find ourselves surprised again, without the benefit of allies to help.” Erc still couldn’t believe the luck of not only finding more Colonial Survivors, but finding a force that was so strong militarily. The Sunflare Battlecruiser, the Tiger Destroyer, and 2 Frigates, Plus more Civilians. Immediately after dispatching the Attacking Pirate Baseship and fighters, now known to be a species called the Ovions and capturing the Tankers, the combined fleet began to move away from Gammoray. That’s when an entire Attack Phalanx of Cylons showed up on scanners. The Frigates and Destroyer deployed to protect the Civilians and the Excaliber and Sunflare advanced on the Raiders, a full spectrum Jamming in place. Detaching Delta bay, the Excaliber set up a refueling and rearming station while the big ships started to swat the Raiders. The Combined Viper faces of both ships easily cleaned up the rest. Impressive, even for the Excaliber’s first and second major engagement, ever.
But the Engagement was almost a Sectar ago, and all the damage had been repaired, Vipers were replaced, slowly, from the spare parts aboard the Excaliber and the light forge they had as well. Commander Taggert and Commander Teck had agreed that mixing the crews a bit would be a good moral booster. And he turned out to be right. The over worked crews from the Sunflare group needed time on the Excaiber, to relax and settle into the new procedures. Commander Teck and Commander Taggert haven’t officially determined who would now command the combined force, but it was looking like Teck would get that honor. The argument for him, at least among the Viper pilots was that he did command the largest Battlestar to ever launch and commanded the secret project to produce it. But I think it was more Taggert’s wanting to concentrate on his ship and crew more than overall strategy.

Just then a bright light streaked past Erc’s Cockpit. “What the Frack, did any of you read that on Scanners?”
“Negative, I’m not showing anything.” Knightstar replied. And just as he finished that reply, all three warriors began hearing a sound. The sound was increasing in volume, to the point that it began to hurt. And just as Erc thought he couldn’t stand anymore, he.. He wasn’t sure, as he lay on the surface of something that most definitely was not his Viper cockpit. He looked around and all he could see what white. He looked down and his Uniform was White. Suddenly he heard someone speaking next to him.
“You needn’t worry, Your Friends are waking right now and will soon join you. I am, well, you can say I’m your Brother. You can call me John……”

[Reaper]

Commander Cain stood on the bridge of the Pegasus watching the main view port, anticipating the massive ship powering down from the current lightspeed run. His fleet had returned to what it had been calling normal. Cain had joined Edan at the services for the 4 lost Viper pilots during their skirmishes at Gammoray. Over the last half Centar the wounded had slowly at first, and then more quickly returned to duty. Taking up regular patrols when the fleet dropped out of Lightspeed. The increase in pilots and ships again allowed him to probe to the rear of the Fleet as much as in their path. The Cylon And Ovion Forces at Gammoray worried the Commander. Not because he couldn’t outfight them, but because they were concentrating that much power at a forward base. Scans of Gammoray itself showed that there was still rebuilding from the attach both Battlestars made on the base. And it might no longer be considered the Cylon outer capitol, but it was still a massive tylium mining operation. And the Cylons seemed determined to protect it.
Colonel Oded walked up to Cain just as the Stars returned to their sublight appearance in the viewport. But before the Colonel could make his report, Cain gave the expected reply. “Have the Ships launch designated patrols. Augment scanners forward for Pegasus, and have Calisto drop back and concentrate on rear scan. All Warriors assume ready status. Same as usual Colonel.”
“Yes sir. Perhaps today will be the day Commander. We’ve got to run into signs of the Galactica’s Fleet eventually.” Oded said as he walked back to flight operations.

A few centons later, Edan settled into formation of the long range probe. This wasn’t a patrol he was leading, Lt Killian had command of the flight, Edan needed the time to just do something, but not be looked to for directions. So, he’d made sure to stack this long range Probe with friends and experienced hands. Killian, Savage, Kassie and himself. All members of Blackstar since the Pegasus had arrived at the Anchorage.
Kassie was the first to hear it, but not by much. “Killian, I’m picking up comm transmissions. they are coming from ahead and down a bit. They are weak, but definitely nothing naturally occurring.”
Savage was next, “I got it too. Trying to isolate them now. Not easy with Viper Comm units.” Savage was silent a centon then came back, Patching in what I am getting.”
“…..Destroyer 12…….Assume normal patrol route. Nationalist………will join………part of new treaty……….Cooperate.” Was the static message all they were going to receive?
“Are we still in Range of the Pegasus?” Killian asked. He was sure of the answer, but had to ask anyway.
“Negative. We’ve moved out of Range 15 Centons ago. They can receive our beacons, but that’s about it.” Edan was now trying to work with his comm to see if he could pick up any more of the message, but Savage was definitely better with electronics then he was. “I suggest we break up the probe. Send me and Kassie back to the fleet and let the Commander know what’s going on. Killian you and Savage should stay with this. I’ll have another flight join you.”
Before Killian could respond, all four Warriors began to pick up a high pitched squeal in their Comm units. At least that’s what Edan thought before he could swear the sound was in his viper. “What the Frack!” and assorted other outbursts were the last thing Edan heard before blacking out.

Although when he opened his eyes again, blacking out might not have been the correct description for what happened. All around him was a bright white light. Even the ….chair he was sitting on seemed to be made of this white light. Edan tried to get up but found he couldn’t. He looked down at his body to see if he was bound in anyway, but nothing. Well, he did notice that his entire battlesuit, down to his laserbelt had turned white.
It took a micron for Edan’s eyes to adjust, but eventually he saw the figures standing around him. They wore all white robes, and hoods. Even their faces were obscured with white cloth. Maybe that was why Edan had trouble seeing them.
“Hello? Can you understand me? Any of you?” Edan strained to get up, but it seemed that as much effort as he made to stand, the exact amount of force was used to keep him down. “What’s going on here? Someone tell me what is happening.”
“All in due time Edan. But first we must wait for your fellows. They will be here shortly.” The voice seemed to come from every direction all at once. Almost disembodied, but angelic. “In fact they are waking right now.”
“Why can’t I get up? Why are you keeping me here? Is there something I’m not supposed to see?” sweeping the room with his eyes, Edan didn’t see any of the beings move, but as his eyes completed the scan, there was one standing right next to him. Its arm raised and hovered over him. Edan braced for whatever was going to happen. But nothing ever did.
“You may raise now Edan. Your friends are coming.”
Without waiting, Edan jumped up, feeling no resistance at all, and moved away from the being still standing where he’d been held down. “Is someone going to tell me what the Frack is happening here?”
“Edan, you ok? Killian was moving into the chamber Edan was standing in. His uniform was also completely White. Form another direction Savage cautiously came into the room, but Kassie seems to run a bit. All were dressed identically.
“Yeah, I’m fine, everyone ok? Let me know how you’re doing.” Edan was looking around at all his fellow Warriors. They all seemed fine, but confused. Probably as confused as Edan was himself.
“Yeah, I’m fine, just confused.” Savage replied.
“I’d be doing a lot better if someone started telling me what’s going on.” As worried as Kassie looked, her words came out steady, a credit to the woman.
“I think I can help a little, I’ll try to explain as much as I am allowed.” The voice, coming from behind Edan made him swing around, just as a man in a white suit appeared there. Unlike the others, his face wasn’t obscured. And he looked quite human.
“Who are you? Where did you come from?” Edan moved to draw his laser, but something stopped him. Nothing physical, like the force that held him down, this was a feeling.
“To make things easier, you may call me John. I am, for lack of a better description, your Brother. As we all are. You, four, have been brought here to help fix a wrong. And to provide the last bit of help another settlement of brothers will need.”
“Other Brothers? You mean other Colonials?” Savage asked.
“No Savage, the Brothers I am speaking of are not from your Colonies, but they have encountered other Colonials on a couple of occasions. I am allowed to tell you that these Humans are not the end of your journey though. You will still have to keep looking for Earth.”
“You know about us, you know about these humans, and the fact they aren’t from Earth, why can’t you just help them and leave us alone?” Killian asked as the Warriors finally grouped together in front of John.
“We are normally not allowed to interfere with……lower forms. But events have allowed us some, shall we say latitude in this situation.”
“Explain the Latitude.” Edan didn’t make it an order, but it was more than a question.
“The Galactica, which you are searching for, encountered one who called himself Iblis. In this encounter, Iblis overstepped his boundaries. Because of this, your three groups have been placed off limits for now, and we are allowed to fix a mistake made 10 of your yahrens ago. We thought Apollo would finish it, but now the Cylons are threatening them.”
“Wait, three groups? Something 10 yahrens ago? And Cylons? Does anyone know what is going on here?” Kassie asked.
“What do we have to do? What do you need from us?” Edan asked, trying to get right to the point here.
“You will be returned to your ships, and remember only enough to bring your fleet to the planet Terra in time to stop the Cylons from destroying this civilization. The Cylons have already destroyed outposts that these humans call Lunar 5 and 4. After that, you will be able to follow a path that will be shown to you, and find those you are searching for.”
“Just like that, we’ll find ourselves back in our,” and with a flash, the white glare was gone, “Vipers.” Edan finished as he looked around at the starfield.
“Alpha Probe, anything out there we need to know about?” the voice was that of Commander Cain. Edan looked down at his Scanners and saw that they seemed to have completed their probe and were moving towards the Fleet. But before he could answer, Lt Killian, as Probe Leader reported back.”
“Affirmative Commander. We have signals coming from an unconfirmed Human civilization. And signs that there is Cylon Baseship hunting within the systems.”
Kassie came in next, “We scanned 2 lunar bases completely whipped out by Cylons. And Have a track on that baseship.”
“Commander, I’m transmitting course and information. I suggest that you bring the fleet to battle ready status and jump to lightspeed to get ahead of the Cylons.” Edan knew why he was saying it, but was it really what he wanted to say? Was there something else he was trying to remember? This something else bothered him. Why couldn’t he remember actually finding this data.

On the Bridge of the Pegasus, Oded and Cain looked over the data transmitted from Alpha Probe and everything they had found. “Commander, it looks like a single Baseship has stumbled into this. It also doesn’t look like they have transmitted the fact. If we act now, we can take out this Baseship, save the group and get a little payback.”
“Agreed Colonel. Let’s draw up the battle plans and once all the probes are aboard begin making our way into this system. Have Navigation plot this course, and get everyone ready for battle. The Civilian Ships, along with Mercury, Tora and Tanga will position here,” Cain was pointing to a location outside the primary planetary system. “The Pegasus and Calisto will come at the Baseship from opposite directions. We’ll squeeze them between us. Hopefully whatever defenses these planets can throw up will help.”
“Commander, all ships aboard and standing ready for the lump to lightspeed.” Came the call from the crew pit.
“Let’s go rescue these people and hit those Galmonging Cylons hard.”

[Reaper]

“General Maxwell? We have the preliminary reports from Luna 4 and 5. Destroyer 4 and Cruiser 17 have arrived there.” The aide brought in the report and placed it on the General’s Desk. Ever since the encounter with Captain Apollo and the near destruction of Terra, the Eastern Alliance had agreed to work with the West to better life for everyone. Yes, missile defenses were rebuilt, but not aimed at one another. Apollo’s warning had been heard.
“Let me see it. Thank you, dismissed.” Maxwell looked it over. Initial investigation shows all structures destroyed. Combination of orbital bombardment and fighter runs. No life detected on either moon. The preliminary report ended with the conclusion that all planetary and orbital defenses failed. No enemy wreckage can be detected at this time.
“Destroyed everything we had there without taking any losses. The only ones I could think of with that kind of advanced weaponry was Apollo’s people. But why save us only to turn around and attack us.”
Maxwell picked up the follow up report from the detainment of an Eastern Alliance Destroyer Commandant. Liehter was his name. He claimed to have been the prisoner of a Commander Adama, aboard a massive warship named Galactica. He escaped with the help of three…near humans, whom he helped steal a long range shuttle from Lunar 7, and a man named Baltar. Baltar claimed to have friends called…oh yes, here it is, Cylons. A race of Machines.” Could it be these Cylons that were now attacking Terran space? It was in keeping with the Story Apollo told of his enemies.
“This is General Maxwell; bring Terran alert status to highest levels. Alert Eastern Alliance command to do the same. Unknown aggressor possibly on their way to Terra. And see if the Science departments are making any more headway reverse engineering the weapons recovered on Lunar 7 and the Fighters recovered on Paradeen.”
2 Terran days later:
“Alert, all stations alert. We have an unidentified craft approaching Terran space. Vessel is…..Huge! I’ve never seen anything like it. The ship is bypassing Lunar 1 and making for Terra directly.”
“Mr. President, I recommend that we launch every ship we have right now, set up some sort of defense line. Between the Eastern Alliance Destroyers we’ve been able to recall and our own Cruisers, we might be able to put up a fight. I’ve already began launching all planetary fighter Squadrons. And ground forces are ready in case of invasion.” Maxwell was no longer in his dress uniform; he wore combat fatigues and wore a sidearm. The Western President, a new one, replacing the one who foolishly trusted the Alliance, nodded his agreement.
“Do whatever you can General. As of this moment, you have complete control of all planetary defenses. The Eastern Alliance concurs with this. From the Command Bunker you will be able to give them all orders.”
“Thank you Mr. President. I look forward to returning these powers back to you. Now, let’s see what we can do about defending ourselves.” Maxwell turned to the monitors and in a lower voice, “hopefully more than Lunar 4 and 5.”
In Space, approaching the hastily assembling defense line of ships, a lone Cylon Basestar leisurely approaches. When it came within striking range, the order was given, and all 300 Raiders launched. The Typical Attack Phalanx began taking shape in front of the Baseship. The Cylon Commander, a Bronze model, secure in the Baseship command center calculated the odds. The Cylons expected to lose no more than 12 Raiders in this attack, with total destruction of the Planet’s population within 700 centons. Then they would turn and attack the rest of the lunar bases.
The first wave of Raiders was beginning to make contact with the Defense line just as the Baseship hit the halfway mark between the moon and planet. Exactly on schedule. What happened next was not expected. Not by anyone involved in this battles. Except one man.
“General Maxwell, new contacts. 2 groups, totaling just over 2oo small craft, must be single pilot fighters. Smaller then Hostile ships. Larger group is coming into combat from our southern polar region, Smaller from north polar. Confirmed they are intercepting the Hostiles.”
“Have our ships pull back, slowly. Keep firing on the hostiles, DO NOT target new contacts. Offer whatever assistance we can. Bring the Defense line to near planetary coverage.”
And with General Maxwell’s orders, the Combined Eastern and Western space forces began pulling back to what they considered the last line of defense. They did so orderly and in a controlled fashion, still firing off at Raiders that broke through the Viper Squadrons that pounced on the Cylons. A daring Squadron of Western Fighter pilots tried to push into the combat zone, but the weaker weapons and slower craft didn’t stand a chance. They were quickly destroyed by the Cylons, but they took 5 Raiders with them. With all attention on the Fighter battle, which was quickly turning into a defeat for the Cylons, the Cylon Commander almost missed the Battlestar and Gunstar dropping to sublight speeds nearly at Point blank range. “Fire all batteries on the Colonial Warships. Begin to withdraw. Have all Raiders cover our retreat.”
“By your Command” Was the response on the ship, but reality wouldn’t allow the Baseship to withdraw. Incoming fire from the 2 Colonial Ships were tearing into the Baseship, and when the Raiders received orders to disengage and protect the baseship, the Colonials took the advantage they had and turned the fight into a route.

“General Maxwell, the Hostile Fighters are trying to withdraw, and our…allies seem to be hitting them harder now. Also, we have 2 larger contacts that just appeared from nowhere. They are targeting the Hostile mothership. All readings show the Hostile ship taking massive damage. There is a force of 3 Destroyers inbound from Lunar 1, targeting the Hostile mothership. We’re getting a direct scan reading from them.”
“Put it up on the main monitor.” Maxwell, along with all the other officers in the command room watched as laser strike after laser strike began causing more and more damage to the Hostile. The three destroyers, approaching almost unseen, launched their nuclear payloads as close as they dared and the General watched the missiles streak in and hit it’s mark. The central construction of the hostile ship took all 6 missiles and began to break apart. A renewed attack by the aiding forces quickly overwhelmed the Hostile and it detonated. When the flash died down, nothing but wreckage could be seen. The Capitol ships that where blasting at the Hostile turned and began pushing an attack on the hostile fighters. Smaller lasers flashed out from the ships, swatting the hostiles till only a few remained.
“All Terran Craft, this is General Maxwell, Pull back to defense position 1. Fighter Squadrons are to land for refueling and rearming. Take up defense positions only.” All Ships began to make their move, with a few designated ships remaining to continue scanner feeds to the command bunker. The 2 aiding capital ships began recovering fighters and moving back away from the planet. “Give me a clear transmission, no scramble.”
“Yes General, you’re on.”
“To the forces that have just assisted the planet Terra. We thank you. If you are Captain Apollo’s people, we find ourselves in your debt yet again. If there is ever anything we can do for you, please do not hesitate to ask of us. General Maxwell out.” The general wasn’t sure if he’d get a response, after all, Apollo hadn’t remained behind to be thanked either. But he felt better expressing his thanks all the same.
In his Viper, patrolling the area over the planet, Captain Edan received the transmission loud and clear. Normally it would be up to Commander Cain to reply, but for some reason, the Commander hasn’t. so, Activating unicomm, Edan was just about to reply.
“I wouldn’t Edan. These people will be confused enough for the time being. You must leave them to develop as they will. And we feel no reply is the best response.” That voice, it seemed to be coming over his receiver, but where was it coming from. “We have purposely prevented everyone on the Pegasus and Calisto from receiving this transmission, but we owed it to you to show their thanks. Now, Take these readings and rejoin your people. Your journey is about to end. Or rather a new Journey awaits you all.”
Edan couldn’t argue with John’s logic. It made sense, these were humans, but not the humans they were looking for. Someday perhaps we could establish contact. But not till we find Earth. “wait a micron, who’s John?” but even that question didn’t seem important right now. Making sure all his Vipers had landed on their ships, Edan made for Alpha Bay on the Pegasus and landed. He downloaded his Ship’s log, including a transmission he received from the planet and went to Decon.
The Pegasus and Calisto jumped to lightspeed and moved to rejoin the rest of their fleet. After Decon, Edan went to the bridge with his flight computer and reported to the Commander.
“Commander, as I was making a final sweep over the planet, I received this, sort of a thank you I guess and celestial coordinates. Seems the Galactica was here and they recorded where it went. Someone down there thought to send it to us as well. Unfortunately, I tried to review the actual message, but that got garbled.”
“Ashame, but not important. Let’s plot these coordinates and see what it takes us. As soon as we rejoin the other ships we’ll make for them immediately. Any suggestions Captain on what to do about these Humans?” Cain really wasn’t concerned with making contact, or establishing ties, he just wanted to find Adama. Time was passing and that would make finding that rag tag fleet harder. Especially if these coordinates were no longer valid due to a course change.
“I say log the planets and lunar bases we’ve scanned and worry about them later. We have a lot to do ourselves and can’t worry about them. Same as the other communities we’ve come across. This one just happens to be a big bigger.”
“Colonel?” Cain looked to Oded
“I agree with the Captain. We did our good deed here, and will benefit from weakening the Cylons, but they aren’t prepared to assist us in the long term. Let’s find our people.”
“let’s do it then. Captain, you’ve earned a rest. Debrief the Squadron leaders, get lists of repairs and casualties and then submit all reports to the colonel. Make sure Calisto does the same. Come on people I can almost feel the Galactica out there, let’s find them already!”

[Reaper]

Commander Adam sat at his desk in his quarters. It had been about 50 centons since the last of the battle damage was repaired. Not that there had been much. Starbuck and Apollo’s stunt on the Baseship had paid off.
It had been a long 5 days since the battle, especially with the Quorum clamoring for answers. A Day ago Sheba and Boomer had piloted a shuttle to a planet along with Starbuck, Apollo and himself and deposited Baltar there as was their agreement.
Baltar was left with a short range transmitter, shelter, food enough to last him till he sources out a new supply, portable scanning equipment to find that new supply and as hard as it was for Adama to do it, a Laser pistol and several extra recharges. A small energizer to recharge them and power the shelter was also left. Handing the uncharged laser to Baltar was not easy. And Adama expected Baltar to try to turn it on his former captures. But he’d simply smiled, holstered it and thanked Adama. Actually thanked him. But that was the past, and Adama owed it to him for his help. Adama had declared it a Military decision, not reviewable by the Quorum, but that didn’t’ sit well. They quieted down a bit when reminded what had happened the last time they questioned Military questions. Sitting on a shuttle set to explode tends to have a lasting impression. Surprisingly it had been Siress Tinia who had reminded them that meddling in Military affairs was not the wisest thing to do.
But where to go now? The fleet had left behind all traces of the Terran Society. No more outposts or bases. The Lone Cylon Basestar seemed to be operating on an exploration mission. No other signs could be seen of Cylon presence. And more troubling than anything else, Apollo had reported that his mysterious Transmission, the one that led them to the Baseship, seems to have returned. And not just that transmission. Others. The old Frequency is making it hard to determine if the source is near or far, but it does seem to provide a path to follow. Was this another trick by the Cylons, or had they really stumbled onto the right trail. Perhaps it had not been the bait to a Cylon trap after all, could it actually be the first hint that the Fleet was approaching Earth? And what would they find at Earth? Would it be a society at the same level Terra had been? They would not be able to help defend against the Cylons. Their Technology was not on par with that of the Colonials. Or would they be less advanced? The Craft in Apollo’s original transmission was Centuries behind the Colonies. Could the Galactica and the Survivors of the Colonials bring a Civilization like that up to needed technology levels before the Cylons caught up with them? And could the People of Earth handle such advanced Technology. Surely the People of the Eastern Alliance would use it to subjugate other humans and bend them to their will. Adama could not allow this. Humanity had to be united to stop the Cylon threat.
It was then that Colonel Tigh’s image appeared on the Screen at the Commander’s Desk. “Yes Colonel, what is it?”
“Adama, You need to get to the bridge. We have trouble. Perhaps more trouble than we could possibly handle.”

In the Command Center of a Cylon Basestar, Dracul Stood infront of the Communication monitor and peered at a splint screen. Other than the robes adorning the other figures, it would have looked like Dracul had been addressing himself. “Report Lucifer.”
“I have brought up My Basestar along with the 2 others the Imperious Leader has assigned me. We are behind the Galactica’s Fleet, just outside of Scanner range. There are no signs of any other Colonial Ships, other than the Galactica. We are ready to push the Galactica into the Waiting ships.”
“Spectre, what do you have to report?” Dracul was short, possibly showing signs that he was ready to assume the role of Imperious Leader, if something where to happen to their Current Leader.
“My Baseship, along with the other one assigned to me have positioned ourselves in the Galactica’s way. They should be running into us at any time. The loss of our third Basestar should not hinder our mission. We are Ready to attach as soon as the Galactica shows signs of scanning us. The Ovion Hiveship you have assigned us is just now assuming it’s position.”
“Excellent. My Basestar and the 3 Ovion Ships I command are ready to flank the Galactica as well. We will completely encircle the Colonial fleet and destroy them. After the destruction of this Fleet, The Imperious Leader then wants us to break up and look for the rest of these Renegades. Which we will. The Basestar I have dispatched to begin that search has failed to check in as scheduled. We will begin our search in that sector.”
Both IL Robots on the Screen replied at the same time, with the same apparent distain for Dracul, “By your Command” and then the screens faded to black.
“The Imperious Leader will be pleased Stuka, we are about to destroy the Galactica and its Civilian Fleet. Our Leader was wise to place me in command of this attach. Prepare the Ovions. Make sure they understand that any surviving Civilian ships are theirs for the taking, but the Galactica is to be destroyed. There can be no mistakes about that.”
“By your Command.”

Commander Teck was looking over Scan reports on the Bridge of the Excaliber. The Small fleet had positioned itself in a small System, letting the recon patrols take a good look around before they continued on. Commander Taggert had shuttled over and the 2 senior officers were standing in front of the bridge plotting screen. “So far, we haven’t scanned much of anything. Dead systems, like the one we’re in, but it would seem we are approaching several possibly inhabitable systems in this sector. We’re just starting to play a recon run in this direction to be handed by the Orion Ship. We figure this way, cause this direction seems to be blocked off by a large cluster of nebulas, and that direction is the general direction back to the Colonies.”
“Taggert looked it over and nodded, we definitely don’t want to go back that way, although I’m still curious about what we would have found in this entire sector had we not done the end-around we’re just completing. The info brought back by Lt Erc was correct, and we had an easy run, with supplies readily available, but it was not the most direct route to get here.”
“True, but until we find the Galactica, and settle our Civilians, we will have to keep curiosity in check. Just be grateful for stocked supply rooms.”
“Oh, I am my friend. I have no complaints. Finding you and the Excaliber has taken a large weight off my shoulders. And I do want to thank you for assuming command of the combined fleet. Between the strain of getting our ships out here with practically no supplies, and no Viper coverage, and Taking care of Sarah, I am quite happy to just oversee my own ship.”
“I’m just glad we were able to take the strain off your ships by putting more Civilians aboard the Prophesy. And having the rec facilities has helped as well, I’m sure.”
“Commander, we have Scanner contacts!” Came the shout from across the Bridge.
“Transfer to the Command Station. Teck ordered and moved to the station. He looked over the readings, but wasn’t sure he wanted to believe what he was seeing. “Confirm. Run this through the Warbook. And make sure the Scanner dome is calibrated correctly.”
“Diagnostics are coming in, and Warbook confirmation is on your monitor.” The Scanner crewman couldn’t keep the smile off his face.
It was Taggert who finally spoke. “Confirmation for a Columbia Class Battlestar. We also have various other confirmed Colonial designs. All in total we have 260 separate scanner contacts.”
“Teck voiced what they were all thinking for the first time. “We’ve found the Galactica and her Fleet.” The bridge was hauntedly silent; not even breathing could be heard. “Communications, open fleet comm…”
“Commander, New Contacts, 2 groups. 1 Directly ahead of Columbia Class Battlestar, one to the rear, probably just outside of the Battlestar’s Scanning range. Contact 1, 2 Cylon Basestars and one tentatively identified as the same type we fought at Gamoray. Group 2, 3 Basestars.”
“They have the Galactica trapped!” Taggert let the excitement of the moment get to him in the comment. He looked around the bridge and didn’t see despair, he saw men and women ready to move in and help the Galactica.
Teck moved back to the plotting board and watched as icons representing the 3 groups appeared before him, “They have the Galactica and her Fleet boxed in nicely. Without knowing how many fighters this tentative contact holds, the Cylons have at the very least 5 Basestars. That’s 1500 Raiders. 500 to one odds, roughly half that with our forces. We can’t win that fight, but if we wait, and move in quickly once the Cylons make their move we can beat them.” Teck waited till all the senior officers in the fleet could check in on secure short distance comm, with Computer sync in place.
“This is the battle plan that Commander Taggert and I have come up with. Taggert is right now on his way to resume command of the Sunflare. When the Galactica scrambles, which may be any minute, we will move at flank speed. The 2 frigates, the Orion Recon Ship and Delta Bay will move towards the rear flank of the Galactica’s civilian Fleet. The Vipers in Delta and the recon will fight a holding action against any Raiders coming from the rear formation, with the Frigates providing a backstop. Our Civilian ships will plunge into the Galactica’s fleet. The Tiger, Sunflare and Excaliber will move to assist the Galactica, which will move to engage the 3 ships in front of them. The Sunflare will move to escort the Galactica and add your squadron of Vipers to hers. The Excaliber and tiger will pair off as well. We will engage head on with that forward formation, our 4 Capital ships putting a single enemy capital ship between each of us. This way 2 Ships can engage each enemy craft. Pushing the odds in our favor. Once we defeat those ships, we order the Civilian fleet forward at Flank Speed, and we turn to engage group 2. This time we’ll have the Frigates to assist us. Delta will remain to the rear along with the Recon to provide Refuel and rearming to Vipers.”
“Commander, what if there are more Ships out there we can’t scan right now?” Asked a Colonel off the Tiger.
“I don’t know Colonel But I am going to fight the battle I can see now and change the order of engagement as things change on our scanners. That Civilian fleet is our priority. Let’s save them.”
“Commander, Galactica is scrambling now. Vipers are moving ahead. They are engaging.”
“All Ships, Execute assignments!”

With the swirling backdrop of the nebula, the senior members of the Viper Squadrons from the Pegasus stood assembled in dress uniforms. The view ports letting in shades of red, blue and orange light. They all stood at attention, but more relaxed then a normal military formation. It was s sign of respect for one of their own.
“Lt Morrigan stood wearing a beautiful dress, he hand closed around that of Pilot Mal. The two had been dating since Mal Joined the Fleet with Valla and her family. She’d passed the training course to become a shuttle pilot in near record time; most knew this was due to the tutoring that Morrigan had given him. He was now routinely making supply runs throughout the Pegasus’ fleet. But not today, today he was getting sealed to the redheaded warrior.
Commander Cain was presiding offer the ceremony. He had a genuine smile on his face as he recited the tales usually associated with taking the seal. He took one of the Medallions found on Kobol and the Chain he had to wear it, and placed it on their hands, and wrapped the chain round them. He stood up and proclaimed to all present that these two, from this day forward were sealed in the eyes of the Lords of Kobol, and breaking tradition he added, if anyone had a problem with that, they would answer to him. The assembled company laughed, including Valla and the warriors broke up to congratulate the two. Edan, being strike captain, was first to shake Mal’s hand. Placing his left on Mal’s shoulder, he winked and ordered the Pilot to take good care of him. Both men smiled and Morrigan gave Edan a look stronger than the turbolasers on a Viper. To which Edna melted and raised his hands in mock surrender. He hugged Morrigan and rejoined the party.
After changing from Dress uniform to duty Uniform, he made his way to the bridge. Cain had returned there earlier. “Are my Warriors still enjoying the festivities?”
“Well, those who don’t have a duty rotation till tomorrow are, but most everyone has either retired or returned to duty. Morrigan and Mal are scheduled to shuttle to Lupus in 20 Centons. I bet they are changing as well now.”
“Good, Good, a fine couple they are Edan. Makes me wonder when you will settle down a bit.”
“In good time Commander, when I’m ready. Still have a lot of work to do here. Besides, who could take my place here?”
Cain looked around to make sure they had this section of the bridge alone. “Nephew, you should find the time. Lords know I did when I was your age. I don’t regret my service, but I know it’s easier knowing that I had your Aunt in my life and Sheba. It’s worth it, even for a career Military officer.”
“You know, even after the Yahren we have been aboard together, I’m not used to you calling me your nephew. I do wish our families had been closer. But I do thank you for your advice.”
“I’ll admit it’s been different with you, since your family was more focused on politics. But I did keep an eye out for you over the yahrens. With Sheba it was easy, she stayed with me here till she was injured and boarded the Galactica. At first, I wasn’t sure if you’d actually stay in the service. I know your father had other plans for you. I will tell you I am very proud of what you accomplished here in the fleet and based on your record, what you have done since enlisting.”
“Thank you sir, I’m just sorry it all came together under these circumstances. But we have to work with what the Lords of Kobol give us.” For a second Edan had a flash of beings, almost human like standing around him, bathed in white, but the images faded almost as fast as it had appeared. Edan shook it off and looked back towards the main viewport.
As both officers stood there watching the swirling gases of the Nebula, one of the bridge crew approached. Without missing a beat, Cain addressed him just as he came up to them. “You have a report for me?”
“Yes Commander, but one we’re not sure how to interpret. Garbled communications and what could possibly be a data transfer stream. We’re trying to decode it all and counter the scattering effect this nebula seems to have.”
“Show me.” Cain was already moving towards the Communications section. The Crewman turned and actually was able to lead the Commander over. Edan followed close behind, as much for curiosity as duty.
“Commander, it seems at least part of the transmission is taking place on Fleet Comm line Alpha.” Colonel Oded was already standing there, making adjustments to the receivers. I’m about to put the cleaned transmission on the speakers. Here we go, this isn’t live, it’s the cleaned recording.”
And with an unnatural echo to the audio, the Image of Commander Adama filled half of the Communications display; he seemed to be standing on his bridge, bathed in the red light of battlealert. The other half of the screen showed another officer in the blue uniform of a bridge officer. He seemed to hold himself the way most Commanders did. Cain did not recognize him, nor did he recognize the bridge the officer was standing on. It seemed to be a battlestar bridge, but seemed..larger. “We will have time for explanations later Adama, I’m moving my 3 largest ships up to join the Galactica. The Tiger will take your wing. We must engage those three ships ahead of you, there is a larger force behind your fleet. I’m dispatching 4 armed ships plus 2 Squadrons of Vipers to act as rear guard. The faster we destroy those three ships, the faster the Civilian ships, including the 3 I am escorting, can move ahead and we can all engage the force behind you.”
“I agree Teck. I just wish I knew where you came from, but thank the Lords for miracles.”
“Commander Adam, as acting commander of the Excaliber Fleet, I turn my ships over to you. You now command all my ships Sir.”
“I accept your..” the transmission continued as Cain turned to Oded and Edan. “Battlestations Colonel. Captain Scramble all your fighters. Colonel, we are going to take our entire force to the Rear of the Galactica’s Fleet and engage the Cylons trying to ambush them.”
“There’s more Commander. The Data stream, we’ve just decoded it. It’s Cylon Sir. Tactical transmission to a third group that must be in the Nebula between us and the Engagement. This force shows as a single Basestar and 3 ships they label as Ovions. They are going to ambush the Galactica and her unexpected reinforcements.”
“Edan, your orders don’t change, prepare to launch and we’ll direct you to targets. Oded, I want the ships carrying civilians, the Stoga, Bovine Lupus and Oxon to assist the Combat ships forming a rear guard. Our ships are armed and armed well. They will be helpful, not to mention Pirate Squadron will assist the Vipers from this Excaliber force. We will move to…this position here, it’s where I’d ambush the Galactica if I were the Cylons. We’ll ambush the ambushers. The Tora and Tanga will hold our Flanks while the Pegasus, Callisto and Mercury will engage. As soon as possible we’ll release the Tora and Tanga to join the rear guard. And to escort the Civilian Ships past the wreckage that the Galactica’s force leaves behind. Inform Colonel Tores he’s to assume command of the Civilian Fleet until Adama can bring the Galactica back to command. I’ll make sure those Colonial Ships forming the rear Guard understands this order.”
There were a series of Yes Commanders exchanged across the bridge. Cain put a headset on to continue listening to the Colonial Transmissions. they might not be real time, but it was the best source of information from those ships. The Cylon Tactical transmission, was in real time, so Cain knew he could still save the Galactica from the ambush, but the quality wasn’t the best. The Transmission was a partial refraction from the rear datastream.
“ok My Warriors, let’s show these Galmonging Cylons what it means to engage the Pegasus! Launch all Vipers!”

[Reaper]

“Starbuck, you there?” Apollo was bringing his viper around for another run on the Raiders that were swarming the Colonial Warships.
“Yeah Apollo, I’m here. Where did these guys say they came from? And where in Sagan’s Sake did that giant Battlestar come from? I at least heard of the Sunflare and her escorts.” Starbuck asked as he once again hit the red button on his control stick sending deadly waves of light out to an escaping fighter.
“I’m not sure; Captain Arkins just basically told me that his Fighters were at my disposal. And thank the Lords of Kobol for that, this is the first time we actually almost equaled the Cylon fighters in an engagement. But that can wait. We’ve thinned things out here pretty good. And the big ships are dueling it out now. We have the advantage. I want to start moving towards the enemy fighters that the frigate Lightening is reporting. The 3 squadrons back there will need our help very quickly.”
“I hear you Apollo; let’s get Boomer to take Red Squadron and 2 of Arkin’s Squadrons and then race through the fleet to back up those guys back there.” Starbuck quickly moved out of the way while one of the new arrivals, in a Viper that looked almost new shot the Ovion fighter on his tail. “You there Boomer?”
“Right with you Fellas, I heard you, just make sure Arkins leaves me those Squadrons and I’ll have Red Squadron finish whipping up these creeps.”
“Arkin here, I’ll leave Blue Star Squadron with their ASPs and Purple Star Squadron with their Vipers to assist your Red Squadron. White Star Squadron, Yellow Star Squadron and Green Star Squadron reports 3 Phalanx’ of Raiders are incoming to their position. Even with the Frigates and Delta’s support, they will need help soon.”
“All Fighters, this is Galactica Control. We have 2 Attack Phalanx’ exiting the Nebula to our flank, reform and prepare to defend.
“Another ambush? They had 3 groups of Basestars out here?”
“Stow it Starbuck, this just got really bad. I’m bettering we’ll be seeing Baseships right after those Raiders engage. And the Galactica and other Capital ships aren’t done with the first 3 Ships.” Apollo seemed to be losing some of the hope that was in his voice.
“That just means we get to tangle with those Baseships till the Galactica is clear. You and Starbuck did it for my father!”
“Yes Sheba, we did, but we didn’t have all these raiders around that time. But let’s do it, all Vipers reform into Squadrons. We’re going to…..” the Scanner in Apollo’s cockpit just showed things getting worse. 6 more groups of small craft, obviously fighters, exiting right behind the first 2 formations.
“Wait a minute, those new ships aren’t Cylons, and they aren’t acting like these other hostiles. They are moving almost like they are….” And before Bojay could finish his theory, the first group of new contacts began firing on the ships at the rear of the closest hostile Phalanx.
“To all Colonial Forces, This is Strike Captain Edan, Battlestar Pegasus, Commanding Blackstar Squadron. Continue to assist the Civilian Fleet, we’ve got these guys.” Starbuck, familiar with the feeling, could almost hear the smile on this warriors face as he made the broadcast.
“Captain Edan, this is Captain Apollo, Strike Captain of the Galactica, did you say Battlestar Pegasus?”
“That he did Captain, good to hear your voice!” and as if magically wished into existence, the Pegasus broke out of the Nebula cloud into Space. Breaking out off to its starboard were 3 of the Hostile Command ships. Not the expected Cylon Baseship. The Pegasus began to assault them immediately with laser cannons.
“Father! You can’t take those ships on alone, not again!” There was fear creeping into Sheba’s voice, at the prospect of losing her father, just as he returned.
“Ah my dear Daughter, you shouldn’t worry too much. This time, I’m not alone.” There was no mistaking the smile on Cain’s face as the Calisto, Mercury, Tora and Tanga all exited the Nebula in battle formation all, firing on the 3 Ovion ships trying desperately to protect the single Cylon Basestar that finally emerged. “This time, I brought allies. Now, we’ll talk later.”
“Edan to White Squadron and Grey Squadron. The Hostiles are launching more fighters. Take up positions to defend our Capital ships from strafing runs. Green Sword, Gold Sword, You are released to assist the Lupus group in defense of the Civilian Fleet. Ice Squadron, Stay with Blackstar and let’s see how long it takes these Tinheads to figure out we are thinning them out from behind.”
Captain Arkin to Orange Star and Silver Star Squadrons. Engage those new hostiles and keep their attention forward. Let the Pegasus group have some free time at the rear of the formation, all other Excaliber group Squadrons, prior orders stand. Let’s go help those Frigates.”
Edan checked his Tactical feeds, as soon as all the ships had exited the Nebula, the Cylon Tactical feed ended, but by then Commander Cain had his own scanners and those of the other Colonial Ships feeding him the same information. Friendly fighters were still outnumbered, but slowly that was changing. It didn’t take long for the Hive ship in front of the Galactica to break up and detonate under the combined fire of the Galactica and Excaliber. The Sunflare and Galactica then turned their attention to the Baseship that they had positioned between them. At the same time, The Baseship that now found itself the sole recipient of attention from the Tiger and Excaliber was quickly pulling back, trying to get out of the battle. It was also moving towards the nebula, hoping to possibly regroup with the Baseship running from the Pegasus. With the expanse of the Nebula stretching out below the plain of the battle, it looked like the damaged Baseship was going to make it.
It did appear that overall tactical command had been handed over to Cain though. The Excaliber was withdrawn from that chase, instead positioning itself to allow the Civilian fleet, who were now under power again, to begin moving past. Cain had detached the Tora and Tanga to lead the Civilians out of the field of battle.
And with 3 separate explosions, the Enemy force was knocked down to what Cain would say is to the Colonial advantage, Even odds.
“Frack! The Tiger lost her Baseship; it just made it into the cover of the Nebula. And it looks like the Baseship opposing the Pegasus is going to make it in as well.” Apollo was now flying through the civilian fleet, but the expected waves of Cylon Raiders taking target practice on the mostly unarmed ships never happened. Most of the fighters were recalled to the aft force when Cain appeared.
“All Vipers begin refueling and rearming on the closest ship capable of recovering and launching you. Declare fuel and malfunction emergencies first, then move down.”
With the Civilian fleet now mostly moving past the Colonial Warships, Cain had taken advantage of the hesitation of the last force of Cylons. Which didn’t seem right, there were now 5 Cylon Baseships hovering together. Granted 2 of them showed battle damage, but with 3 intact and the number of fighters that must have been recovered, they were an impressive fighting force. Always thinking of the advantage, Cain was placing his ships into a battle line. The Galactica and Pegasus flanked the Excaliber, forming the center of the line. To the one side of the line was the Sunflare; to the other was the Calisto. Above the formation was the tiger and below, was the Mercury, all the other combat capable ships were with the Civilian fleet. Both Patrolstars, both Frigates, the Delta Bay from Excaliber, now simply called Delta, the Orion Recon ship, the Lupus, Bovine, Oxon and Stoga formed a defense envelope around the rest of the large fleet. All Ships capable of carrying fighters did. It was armed enough to run and provide covering fire.
When it came time for Edan to land and have his viper refueled and rearmed, the closest ship was the Excaliber, so Edan, Killian and Morrigan landed in its beta bay, right behind Apollo, Starbuck and Sheba. No one left sight of their vipers, not with so many Cylons just sitting out there. But these 6 did manage to get together.
“Captain Apollo, I’m Edan, from the Pegasus. I can’t tell you what an honor it is to be able to shake your hand sir.” Edan held out his hand as he approached the officer. Apollo, possibly not believing that he was looking at so many warriors he never met, just stared.
“Thank you Captain. If you and the Excaliber Fleet hadn’t shown up here, we wouldn’t have stood a chance. Where did you come from?”
Sheba, having stared at the slightly younger officer finally recognized him. “Edan! I haven’t seen you since….”
“Since your mother died. Hello Cousin. It’s GREAT to see you!” Edan embraced his cousin. Not a long one, but definitely one that showed the family connection.
“Your cousin? I thought Cain was an only child. How could you be..” Starbuck was trying to put it all together, but Edan let them all off the line.
“Sheba’s mother was my mother’s sister. I’m not actually related to the Commander by blood. Just marriage. And yes Sheba, Your father is fine. He was severely injured in the battle at Gamoray, but when we discovered him back at the Colonies…”
“The Colonies? How is that possible?” Apollo was trying as hard as Starbuck to take it all in.
“Our Scientist proposed that when the 2 Baseships detonated, their gravitic drives opened a space bridge of sorts that super accelerated the Pegasus in the straight line it had been traveling in. Directly to the door step of Ragnar Station. Where we had been hiding and regrouping.” Killian filled in that major bit of the story. “We rescued as many as we could, Lt Morrigan here was stationed on Station Thula, which we evacuated whole. We found some settlements in the outback, and some civilian transports heading for space. Knowing we had to run, we decided to use Military ships from the Yard to make our escape. Spent a Yahren getting ready. Then the Pegasus arrived, we repaired her, Fixed up the crew, and set out, at a much faster speed then your fleet Captain. We caught up.”
“Ok, that explains you guys, repaired ships from the Anchorage. But what about this ship?” Apollo was looking around. Everything was new. Nothing seemed to be broken in like most of the fleet was.
“Captain, Captain, Perhaps it’s time I explained where we came from. I’m Let Erc.” A broad shouldered officer was walking over. Physically he’d be a match for Edan, but he was younger. And unlike the Bald Captain, had a full head of short hair. With him a younger petite female warrior with Red hair stood by his side, the body language said they were a couple.
“Go ahead Lt Erc, I’m dying to know.” Starbuck couldn’t help but answer for both Captains.
“Excaliber was built in secret at Victory Station. We were just about done when the attack on the Colonies occurred. We heard the call to flee from the Galactica, but couldn’t possibly make it in time, and calling to you would have delayed your departure. So we struck out on our own. After a few encounters, we changed course with the intent of catching up. We encountered the Sunflare group just outside of Gamoray. They had been on patrol in the colonies and were cut off from helping. They made their way, slowly in your wake. It wasn’t easy for them, barely any Viper coverage, 3 Civilian Ships and no Agro ships. But we helped them along and they saved our behinds.”
Apollo looked over at Starbuck, disbelief in his eyes and showing on his face, “It’s a Miracle. That’s the only thing I can say. And we’re actually a combat fleet now.”
The Techs were signaling that the Vipers were ready for launch, and the 8 of them walked with their ships into the launch bays. They were tired, combat always does that to them, but they didn’t dare rest, not with the enemy hovering out there.
“What’s the plan? We’ll need to go out ready.” Erc asked.
“I don’t know. I mean, we never had this much support. Captain Edan, any ideas?” Apollo knew he wasn’t ready just yet to lead the combined force out.
“Commander Cain had a plan. If we have to dive into the enemy fighters, have senior pilots pulse their short range transmitters when you emerge on the other side. The rest of the vipers will rally around these flight leaders and reform Squadrons. We take the new formations and hit them again. Over and over again.”
That’s when the Klaxons went off again and the lighting turned red. The nods of agreement would have to do for now. There was no time for discussion.