Earth 2010 - The Colonies of Kobol Reunited Chapters 17

CHAPTER 17

D’Anna sat back on the lounge chair on the small patio of the home her husband Matthew Lensherr was assigned when he was temporarily detailed to Earth. It was a modest two-bedroom house on the base, well within walking distance to the base commissary and other conveniences. What she was doing over the last few weeks was something Matthew Lensherr might never forgive her for. However, it was now a matter of life and death for the people of Earth, for the former Colonials and most importantly for Matthew and James, what she did, she did for them most of all. The Cylon threat must be stopped here and now, and she, with the help of a brilliant human scientist just created the means to permanently deal with that threat.

Of course, she would die in the aftermath, and her greatest fear would be that the safeguards put in place to protect her half-human half Cylon child would fail. She picked up the pad and pen and resumed writing her final words to Captain Matthew Lensherr, the human she dared love, dared to help against her very own race, the love that resulted in the “boxing” of her entire series. There was a very strong chance that she would not survive to see him, to explain why she did what she did. She was amazed at how easily the words flowed from heart to paper.

General Peter McAllister, the Supreme Commander for the Earth Defense Command stood before an immense wall chart that bore page after page of vital statistics, progress reports, diagrams and observations on a number of military projects running concurrently. The one project that held his attention firmly was the Excalibur. A soft buzzer sounded from a dedicated phone on his desk. This was a call he was expecting all morning. “Good morning Mr. President!”

Connor McGregor sat in the oval office 2,420 miles away. “Peter, tell me about Excalibur’s progress.” No pleasantries, no idle chitchat, the two men were well aware of the critical timeframe in play.

“Mr. President we are well ahead of schedule I’m pleased to announce. All preliminary checks have shown positive results, she is fully armed and fueled at this time. Most of the crew has reported to the intake center outside the dry dock waiting processing.”

“So her shakedown cruise will still take place at the scheduled time and date?”

“Yes sir, once she is airborne and clear of Earth orbit she will receive her fighter wings. She will be under the command of Commander Takeda Kenshin; his executive officer is a former captain aboard the GALACTICA with 20 years experience in the Colonial fleet.”

“I can’t tell you how pleased I am that one of our own officers is receiving command of this new Battlestar, General. I understand that Admiral Adama wanted a mixture of Colonial and Earth officers in the command structure of future warships, but I have to admit that I feel an incredible amount of pride at the thought of one of our own in command of such a warship.”

“Commander Kenshin was one of the brightest and most respected officers in the Japanese military, sir. He is an excellent tactician, and unparalleled student of military history. I couldn’t think of a more worthy officer for the post.”

“Keep me in the loop, Peter. The ship will be hitting the fan soon enough and I want to be ready for whatever gets thrown our way.” Explained McGregor. There was no longer a United States military, so his position as commander in chief was in a state of limbo. However, with the governments of Earth uniting, Connor McGregor was enjoying very high poll numbers, and was well on his way to becoming the very first president of the planet Earth. He might soon be commander in chief of the entire Earth Defense Command, or he might rule over a planet burned to a crisp under Cylon nuclear assault. Time would soon tell.

Leoben stood above the Hybrid, as she lay reclined in the immersion tank. His hands folded behind his back he walks around the tank’s perimeter, the Hybrid stares straight ahead silently. Kneeling down he gets within inches of the Hybrid’s ear.

“There are no collective command decisions for you to execute anymore, only one command now exists…mine. But you know that don’t you? You know all that goes on within this ship, for this ship is an extension of you, is it not? You are a living computer that manage the autonomous functions of this Basestar, but are unable to utter a coherent sentence. By now, my entire series has carried out my plan for consolidating command and control of all Cylon forces, in time I will create an empire that will span across the cosmos.” The Hybrid just looked ahead remaining silent. “I don’t know why I come down here to talk to you, you never answer me, and when you do speak it is gibberish. Well, let us get to Earth at long last.” With a sigh, Leoben Conoy stands up and exits the Hybrid’s chamber.

Upon entering the command center, Leoben walks up to Doral. “Have we pinpointed Earth’s location using the information gleaned from the woman, and our heavy raider scans?”

“Affirmative, we have precise coordinates for the location of the third planetary body from the star located in this system.” Replied Doral.

“Excellent, have the heavy raider decoys engage the GALACTICA and let us depart for Earth immediately.” In minutes, the immense warship disappears in a blinding flash. The Basestar reappeared approximately 252,586 miles from Earth orbit, slightly beyond the moon.

“Jump complete, before us is the planet Earth, home to the long lost thirteenth tribe of Kobol.” Reported Doral, his hands submerged in the fluids of the control panels. “Dradis has detected a space craft in the vicinity as you predicted…it is the same Battlestar we encountered earlier.” Leoben knew it would have to be destroyed immediately. “Initiate jamming field and launch the raiders, destroy it at once.” Ordered Leoben.

At the same moment, action stations were sounding throughout Terra-1. “Action Stations, action stations, all hands man your combat stations…Cylon Basestar has jumped into our sector, set condition one throughout the ship, this is not a drill.” Lt. Antonio Digit repeated the alert twice more as Colonel Tigh briskly entered the CIC ordering a status report.

“Cylon Basestar just jumped into the system; they are 1,700 miles from the moon and closing.” Informed Digit.

“Launch the alert vipers, and send a coded message to GALACTICA and Earth Defense Command, inform them that we will engage Basestar and will need reinforcements…execute.” Ordered Tigh. “Helm, I want us on an intercept course at flank speed…execute! Bring all weapons to bear on Cylon Basestar and prepare for battle.”

“Incoming 70 Cylon raiders!” warned Digit looking up from his Dradis screen.

“They already outnumber us two to one.” Said Patton who was at Tigh’s side.

“What else is new?” muttered Tigh under his breath.

“Commander, I’m unable to reach GALACTICA, the Basestar is projecting a jamming field.” Advised Digit, a new intensity to his voice.

The alert vipers exploded down the launch tubes and out into space on an intercept course for the incoming Cylons. The purpose of alert fighters was to support a Combat Air Patrol with the intercept or elimination of any incoming enemy threat. Commander Tigh had ordered all pilots to be at alert readiness in or close by their fighters in order to launch immediately. Captain Mark Sarnex was itching for a rematch and he poured on the speed to the wall of incoming Cylon attack craft.

“Nightstalker to all wings… stay by your wingman and engage enemy fighters only, vipers are enroute from Earth but will take some time to get here, even at using full battle thrusters…squadron leaders copy?”

“Red Lancer leader copies, engage fighters only!” said Vampire.

“Omega squadron copies, fighters only. Replied Bloodbath.

“Alright ladies and gentlemen, let’s go get them!” said Nightstalker.

At flank speed, the smaller Mercury class Battlestar was fast closing the gap in distance between them and the much larger Basestar. Incoming ordinance rained down from the Cylons.

“Incoming ordinance!” warned Digit.

The point defense turrets put up a wall of destructive flak into the airspace around Terra-1. It made short work of more than half of the lethal Cylon missiles, unfortunately enough made it through the defensive perimeter and found its target. The Battlestar shuddered under the pounding. This Basestar was larger than the ones previously encountered by Saul Tigh; it was better armed, and was capable of inflicting serious damage against the small Battlestar. He prayed GALACTICA would arrive soon.

The vipers tore into the wall of raiders with a vengeance, their pilots fighting with controlled fury. Bedlam had taken out two raiders within seconds of each other, a smile creeping across Rachel Frost’s face with every kill. She was not the only pilot with murder in her eyes, LT. Anghard Beynon was in a foul mood and her viper’s cannons blazed as she plowed through the phalanx of enemy fighters.

Photon and Breakout were paired as wingmen, and they were racking up their own kills. “Looks like your countryman is dispensing the Gods own judgments single handedly, eh Dillon?”

“I’d caution you about referring to Branwen as my countryman, she may be part of the United Kingdom, but she most assuredly does not like to be referred to as British…there is a huge difference!” joked Lt. Dillon Fan over the comline.

“Why don’t you put your head back up yur arse where it belongs, Breakout,” came the voice of the Welsh beauty. “I canna kill toasters and watch you and Photon’s backs at all times you bloody pommy… pay attention!” yelled Branwen as she unleashed a deadly salvo over the nose of Photon’s viper, striking an incoming raider that was making its run on the unsuspecting viper.

“That’s one hell of a woman, Breakout…a real tigress.” Said Photon as he banked his Viper to avoid enemy fire.

“Most Welsh women are, mate!” replied Breakout.

“Can the chatter guys, there are far too many of them out here, and not a lot of us.” Interrupted Nightstalker as his viper took a glancing blow to the nose.

Lt. Felix Gaeta reacted quickly when his Dradis screen revealed the wall of unmistakable Cylon attack craft entering the quadrant. “Dradis contact…Cylon attack force now entering this quadrant and closing on our location.”

“Action stations!” ordered Apollo. “Launch the alert vipers.” The vipers from GALACTICA launched and proceeded on an intercept course. The mighty Battlestar was prepared for battle, her vipers forming a spearhead before her.

Nightstalker’s fighters were again outnumbered, and were being led further away from Terra-1, which was taking a tremendous pounding from the much larger Cylon warship. This Basestar was larger than the GALACTICA, but her size made it slower than her opponent. The smaller Battlestar launched a blistering counter-attack, but the Basestar continued to bear down on it, raining countless missiles upon her.

Colonel Patton was picking himself off the deck, a large gash opened up above his left eye where he struck the corner of a console. “Commander, we’ve taken extensive damage topside, and to engine number three. Our speed is down 15%.”

“Helm, get us above their weapons…focus retaliatory fire on their center axis, that’s the weakest point of the Basestar!” said Tigh glancing over to the weapons station.

“Aye sir.” Replied both officers almost in unison.

The dog fighting between viper and raider reached an intensity not seen in a very long time, Lt. Roger McElkenny was desperately trying to shake his two pursuers, and he breathed a sigh of relief when he heard the voice of Lt. Steve Parsec over his comline. “Hang in there; Thunder...I’m on their six!”

“Get em off me Photon, these suckers are good.” The closest raider unleashed a line of fire that stitched its way across the top of Thunder’s high engine. The sparks and violent rocking that followed was not a good sign. “I’m hit!” yelled Thunder over his comline. “I’ve lost my high engine, having trouble maneuvering.”

“Thunder…Nightstalker, if you’re unable to still fight effectively than fall back to Terra-1.” Ordered Mark Sarnex. He could not afford to lose any of his vipers against these odds, but he was not going to needlessly sacrifice one. Breakout had doubled back to cover the damaged viper’s escape. He destroyed one raider that was bearing down on Thunder.

“Got the bloody tosser!” said Dillon Fan triumphantly. As he flew over the debris field generated by the exploding raider. Looking in the direction of his home Battlestar, Breakout noticed her attempting to get above the Basestar’s withering assault, it wasn’t looking good.

Ten minutes out from GALACTICA, the pilot in lead viper was getting impatient. Falcon’s Dradis was experiencing a massive fluctuation of signals. He flipped open the comline to Raptor 1. “Betty…Falcon, can you sort through that mess or what?”

“Negative Falcon, I have alternating counts…one moment I’m counting 87 enemy contacts the next I count 5, something isn’t right here. There is far too much clutter to sort through.”

“Well love you’re going to need to sort through it, I need to know what we’re up against.” Replied Falcon gruffly.

Nintius looked back at her ECO who was feverishly trying to lock onto the incoming signals. “What’s the Fraking hold up, Ratdog?” said Nintius sharply.

“Too much clutter boss, the toasters are doing their best to jam us.” Replied her Electronic Countermeasures Officer.

“Punch through it, we need an exact count and bearing.” Said Nintius, her hands on the control yoke, eyes straight ahead, scanning the inky blackness of space with the eyes of a predator. Her thoughts were on Falcon, the two were always close, but recently had gotten closer, her feelings for the hotheaded viper jock were strong, she realized that both were the opposite sides of the same coin.

The excited sound of her ECO’s voice snapped her from her thoughts. “Contacts confirmed as two Cylon heavy raiders…repeat two heavy raiders confirmed on intercept course!” A wave of concern swept over Betty…decoys!

“GALACTICA…Raptor 1, we have confirmed two Cylon heavy raiders only. This is not an attack force, there are only two.”

Apollo looked at his father immediately; the report from Raptor 1 was obvious. “Decoys Commander, they’ve succeeded in drawing out our fighters.”

The reality was now sinking in, the Cylons had lured his vipers away from GALACTICA, that could only mean that an attack on GALACTICA was imminent, or it was a diversion to keep him away from the real target.

“Tactical, signal the vipers to return to the ship immediately, combat landings authorized. I want an immediate jump to Earth orbit, that’s where the attack will take place.” Snapped Adama angrily.

“GALACTICA to all vipers, return to GALACTICA immediately, combat landings authorized, all squadron leaders confirm!” said Gaeta over his lip microphone. One by one, the squadron leaders acknowledged the recall order.

“Falcon…Eagleone, do we take out the heavy raiders?”

“Negative Lieutenant, return to GALACTICA immediately, we’ve been played by the toasters. Betty I want you to keep an eye on those two heavy raiders, if they follow us we’ll engage and destroy.” Said Falcon. No sooner had the vipers reversed course did the heavy raiders jump away, confirming fears that they had indeed fallen for a decoy.

Earth Defense Command headquarters was a flurry of activity, their worst fears had come true… the Cylons had found Earth. General Peter McAllister was in the command center, he had issued a planetary alert. How were they able to get past GALACTICA, thought McAllister? The Basestar was just beyond the moon and only one Battlestar stood between it and Earth. Turning to an aid, McAllister spoke quietly. “Get Doctor Xavier on the line immediately, inform him that project Valhalla is ready to be implemented. Also, I want the Excalibur ready for immediate launch, discontinue the loading of supplies and get all essential personnel onboard immediately; we need the firepower up there.” Said McAllister gesturing up towards space. The aid quickly disappeared to carry out the orders. McAllister went on to put out a full planetary alert, viper squadrons across the world as well as atmospheric fighter squadrons were now on full alert and would be ready to launch at a moment’s notice. He must now alert the President.

Terra-1 took two more direct hits to her number three and four engines. Maneuvering propulsion was decreased by 37% and the Battlestar was in serious trouble. Burning circuitry filled the CIC as the red emergency lights came on once normal lighting failed.

“Extensive damage to sections 24 through 36 Commander, we also have a minor hull breach in section 39.” Reported Patton holding a blood soaked bandage above his eye.

“That Basestar is shrugging off our best shots.” Said Tigh coming alongside his executive officer.

“Commander the Basestar is coming about.” Warned Digit.

On the Cylon base ship, Leoben contemplated the latest progress report of the battle, he had ordered the ship to come about and finish off the wounded Battlestar. “It appears that our heavy raider diversion has been a success, GALACTICA is still well out of range, and will not jump to her sister ship’s aid and leave her vipers behind.”

Gina stepped forward and spoke her voice soft, but with a definite undertone of contempt present. “It would appear that GALACTICA’s fighters discovered the ruse, our heavy raider’s report that the vipers have returned to their ship. It is only a matter of time until they jump back to Earth.”

“With one Battlestar crippled, I am not overly concerned with the possibility of an oxidized relic of a Battlestar inflicting much damage on the latest product of Cylon technology and might!” said Leoben smugly. “Once we have destroyed this Battlestar, move us to Earth orbit, we will offer them unconditional surrender or let them taste nuclear death as did the other twelve colonies.”

From Nightstalker’s canopy he could see the damage raining down on his Battlestar, they would not be able to hold out much longer, and his three small squadrons were doing their best just to keep themselves from being blown out of the sky by the superior raider forces. He was receiving a message from Starburst aboard Raptor 3. “Go ahead Starburst!”

“Skipper we’re picking up 40 incoming contacts from Earth, war book positively identifies as EDC vipers.” The pressure that Mark Sarnex was feeling on his chest subsided, at last some reinforcements. His vipers had to be running low on fuel, ammunition, and needed relief. The vipers coming in from Earth were from Sabra squadron, the white vipers with the light blue pin striping and Star of David painted on the dorsal identified them as the Israeli air wing. Led by Capt. Ari Bukayi: call sign Saraf, which in Hebrew meant “poisonous snake;” he led the 39 screaming vipers behind him into battle.

“Terra-1 this is Saref, we are engaging enemy fighters, feel free to fall back and recover your squadrons, they must be very close to needing fuel and ammunition resupply…over!”
“Saref…Terra-1 Actual acknowledges your last transmission with thanks…Terra-1 to all wings, return for immediate refuel and reload, combat landings authorized.” Ordered Lt. Antonio Digit over the secure comline. Fuel starved vipers disengaged enemy raiders and streaked back to their Battlestar as fresh vipers from Earth entered the fray.

Back on Earth, Doctor Philip Xavier replaced the phone to its cradle and secured his office. Taking three steps at a time, he made his way to the ground floor and out to his car in the parking lot. He traveled the 6.2 miles to the home of Matthew and D’Anna Lensherr where she was waiting for him on the porch. Skidding to a halt he watched as she kissed young James, she held him close for what seemed like an eternity than handed him over to a female lieutenant Colonel and an aid. She got into the passenger seat and the car streaked off to a secure part of the base.

With vipers coming in on both decks, Tigh ordered Terra-1 to fall back closer to Earth, their point defense cannons continuing to throw up a deadly wall of flak to deflect the larger missiles raining down upon them from the Basestar, and the raiders not engaged by Sabra squadron. Mark Sarnex was hovering over the entrance to the port-landing bay to account for each of his fighters, Vampire hovered over the starboard bay, and both squadron leaders would be last aboard. Not every viper that initially launched made the return trip. Four vipers were KIA; the dead would be mourned later.

With all of her fighters finally back onboard, GALACTICA disappeared from the Uranus area heading back to Earth courtesy of her faster than light drive. Coming out of the jump, Gaeta made a quick Dradis sweep of the immediate area. “Admiral, the Basestar is in upper Earth orbit, engaged with Terra-1.”

Apollo was receiving data from Terra-1; he immediately went to Adama’s side. “Tigh is taking a beating sir; they are totally defensive at this time and are sustaining serious structural damage.”

“Let’s get this ship into the fight, XO!” barked Adama. “Launch all vipers. Helm, bring us on an intercept course with the Basestar…flank speed, Combat…standby to fire main batteries!”

Fresh vipers streaked through space to assist their beleaguered comrades, GALACTICA was fast on their wake to take on the massive Cylon warship. She let loose a salvo to get the Cylon’s attention. Two direct hits achieved the desired results, the Basestar disengaged the battered Terra-1 immediately, however it did not turn back towards GALACTICA and it picked up speed for Earth.

“Admiral, the Basestar has dropped lower into the atmosphere…wait, a message sir…we’re receiving a direct communication from the Cylons.” Said a very surprised Gaeta.

Adama looked at his executive officer and sat down in his command chair. “Open the channel, captain!” he ordered.

“This is the Battlestar GALACTICA, Admiral Adama commanding!” The speaker came to life with a very familiar voice. Leoben Conoy was one of the more infamous Cylons, and the most feared.

“Greetings Admiral.” He began. “I will get straight to the point; this Baseship is currently in geosynchronous orbit above the planet Earth, the object of your long and difficult journey since the destruction of the Colonies. I am prepared to launch twenty-six nuclear missiles down upon the planet; your fastest star fighters would not be able to destroy a single one before it unleashed its devastation upon Earth’s populous. I would strongly suggest that you stand down immediately before we are both forced into an action we may regret.”

Adama glanced at Lee who was already verifying Leoben’s nuclear claims. The look on his faced confirmed that Leoben was not lying.

“Helm, reduce speed and bring us parallel to the Cylons. Weapons, keep the Basestar targeted but hold your fire until ordered otherwise.” Motioning to Gaeta to mute the transmission he then ordered her to get an immediate status report on Terra-1. “Reopen the channel lieutenant.” He ordered. “You realize of course that if you fire those missiles we will immediately destroy your ship, and I feel fairly confident that there are no resurrection ships close by to bring you back.”

“I have no desire to destroy the Earth, Admiral…at least not until I’ve had a chance to learn more about it. I would also appreciate you ordering your vipers to stand down as well, Admiral…they are like gnats, and they start to annoy me.”

Adama nodded to Lee who immediately transmitted the message to the vipers currently engaged in battle to fall back and regroup near GALACTICA. Apollo muted the transmitter and advised the Admiral on Terra-1’s status. “Sir, Commander Tigh reports heavy damage to engines 3 and 4, and there are some decompression threats on several decks. He currently has all his wings onboard and is in the process of reload and refueling.”

“If they can still maneuver, order Tigh to take a position on the opposite side of the Basestar. Weapons are to be hot at all times, also signal EDC headquarters, advise them of the tactical situation.” Adama signaled to Gaeta to reopen the channel. “What is it that you want Leoben? Surrender won’t be an option; we’ve grown tired of running.” Said Adama defiantly.

“You pathetic and arrogant human...you are faced with total annihilation and you still act as if you bargain from a position of advantage.” Sneered Leoben. At that moment, the arrival of another warship was detected almost simultaneously on all Dradis units. Rising from the surface, the Battlestar Excalibur was coming within range of the Basestar.

“Another Battlestar? You Colonials have been working very hard, I see. No matter, three Battlestars are no match for the Cylon Empire. As we speak, our fleet is enroute to this solar system.” Said Leoben smugly.

“So you say,” countered Adama. “But all we see is you, and three Battlestars are indeed a match for one Basestar.”

“I wouldn’t be too confident, Admiral. This Basestar is the latest in Cylon technology and power.”

“Admiral, incoming signal from Earth Defense Command, your eyes only.” Informed Gaeta. Apollo retrieved the message from her and walked it over to Adama who immediately read it. His left eyebrow arched, and his mouth opened slightly. What the Frak was this all about, he thought.

“Moments ago I received word from Earth that an envoy is enroute to GALACTICA with instructions from Earth’s government to request an audience with the commander of the Cylon Basestar currently in orbit. I am assuming that you are the commander of that ship?”

“Your assumption is correct, Admiral. I will extend the courtesy of protection to the Earth envoy and insist that YOU also accompany the envoy aboard my ship as well.”

“Why would I agree to that?”

“Because one, you have no choice, and two I want a representative of the twelve colonies in addition to a representative from the thirteenth. Dialogue is far better than hostilities, wouldn’t you agree Admiral?”

“I will insist upon an armed escort to the Basestar and a small Marine escort within!”

“Very well, Admiral. As I stated, there will be an order of protection extended for your entire stay aboard my ship. Unlike humans, we Cylons keep our word. This could very well be a pivotal moment in history for human and Cylon; I for one would like to see what Earth has to offer.”

“The Raptor from Earth is due aboard in twenty minutes, I suggest we maintain our current positions, and avoid any unnecessary actions that may create an incident. I have yet to be briefed by this envoy, so I suggest we meet in 12 hours.”

“Agreed Admiral, I intend to recall my raiders, and suggest you do the same. End transmission.”

As soon as the line was cut, Apollo was immediately at the Admiral’s side. “What in the name of the Lords of Kobol is going on? An envoy from Earth to meet with the Cylons, and you agreeing to go aboard their ship…Admiral I must protest!”

“You know as much as I do Lee. The moment that Raptor lands I want that ‘envoy’ in my quarters immediately. I want a six man marine detail fully armed as well, and prepared to take off.”

“Yes sir…and the Excalibur?”

“My guess is that they pushed up her departure time in order to get some muscle out here. Get a complete ship’s preparedness report from the commanding officer of Excalibur, and check with Tigh to see what he needs.” Adama turned the con over to the XO and walked to his private quarters. What was going on here? Why was Earth sending an envoy to the Cylons, were the contemplating surrender? William Adama had been on the run for far too long. Surrender would not be an option; the line in the sand must be drawn here and now.

The raptor from Earth was fast approaching GALACTICA with instructions to land in the starboard-landing bay. GALACTICA’s entire air wing was still airborne flying a holding pattern between GALACTICA and Terra-1. Leoben may have recalled his fighters, but Adama would not put his ship or the other Battlestars at risk. Fifty tons of Earth-built Raptor gently set down on the deck, and was immediately lowered into the lower bay.

Apollo had dispatched Gaeta to the landing bay to escort the envoy to the Admiral’s quarters, what a surprise for Gaeta when learning the identity of the envoy. This ‘guest’ would need no directions, she knew her way around the GALACTICA. “Good afternoon Felix.”

“D’Anna? What are you doing here, you’re the envoy from Earth?” asked a confused Gaeta.

“It’s a long story lieutenant, and I hope I’ll be able to tell you some day. In the meantime I must see the Admiral immediately.” The two made their way to the Admiral’s private quarters, and Gaeta departed when the Adama opened the door.

“Greetings Admiral!”

“D’Anna…my Gods what are you doing here?” asked Adama guiding her by the arm into his quarters. He shut the door and gestured to her to sit down. For the next hour, she proceeded to tell Adama what she had been doing, and what Earth’s intentions were.

“You realize of course that Hephaestus will fight this, D’Anna.” Said Adama matter-of-factly.

“He’s professional enough to know what is required, and I doubt Earth Command or yourself will allow him to be an obstacle. This is about the survival of the human race after all.”

“We have our work cut out for us; this isn’t going to be easy.”

“Did you believe it would be, Admiral?” Adama reached over to the phone attached to the wall and ordered the junior officer of the deck in CIC to have Captain Nintius report to his quarters immediately.

“What are you doing?”

“Betty will be our ride to the Basestar, and I want my best raptor pilot on this mission. If my ass is going to be in the frying pan, I want her holding the handle. Besides…I have an idea I want to run by the both of you.”

Within ten minutes, Captain Nina Nintius was sitting down in the Admiral’s quarters. Of all the humans aboard the GALACTICA, Nina had been one of a very few to openly accept their former enemy within their midst, and fully support the marriage between her and Matthew Lensherr. Adama’s plan was just as risky as D’Anna’s was and there was no guarantee either would work.

The GALACTICA was alongside the larger Basestar; all batteries remained trained on the enemy warship. Terra-1 and the Excalibur also positioned themselves within effective firing range in the event the Cylons launched their nuclear-tipped missiles towards the planet’s surface in the last ditch attempt to shoot as many of them down as possible.

Betty gently lifted the raptor off the deck of the port-landing bay and exited the flight pod out into space. Six heavily armed Marines joined the boarding party, and the ship cautiously approached the massive Basestar. This Cylon war machine was heavily armed, and Nintius and Adama both thought how lucky Terra-1 was not to have been completely blown out of the stars. This was a testament to Saul Tigh’s command experience. The raptor slowly descended into the gaping maw of the Cylon landing bay and was guided in towards a well-lit chamber. D’Anna gazed about the interior of the starship and gently closed her eyes, she felt like she was home again. With the raptor secured to the biomechanical decking. Once confirmed that the chamber is pressurized, the raptor door slowly opens and the Marines disembark and take up defensive positions along the raptor, scanning the area for threats. Adama and Nintius step down off the wing, Nintius sporting a combat vest over her flight suit, with pistol strapped to her side.

Two Centurions flanking a Six-model Cylon approach, their weaponry retracted. The six foot strikingly beautiful, female Cylon approaches Adama. “Welcome aboard Admiral.” Turning to Nintius, she glances at the sidearm strapped to the muscular thigh of the very attractive red head. “Rather unusual for an envoy to be armed when arriving to discuss terms of surrender.” Said the six smiling.

“I’m not the special envoy, sweetheart…I’m the muscle.” Said Nintius, hands on her hips. The Cylon was confused, and looked at Adama.

“What does she mean? Who is the envoy, and where is he?”

“The special envoy from Earth would be me, Gina.” Said D’Anna, now stepping out of the shadow of the raptor entrance. The Cylon spun her head around, recognizing the voice immediately.

“You!” she said. “Now this is an unexpected surprise.” D’Anna walked straight up to Gina, of all the seven known human-model Cylons, D’Anna’s three series and Gina’s six series interacted well with each other.

“It is good to see you again Gina. It’s been so long.” The two stood staring at each other in silence for a few seconds, then the six spoke.

“Leoben had your entire series “boxed.” You are considered a traitor.” Informed the six. “Leoben will not be pleased to see you.”

“I fail to see what Leoben’s feelings have to do with my reasons for being here, he is after all only one of the collective.” Replied D’Anna.

“You have been away for a long time.” Said Gina. “Leoben has dissolved the collective and has taken complete control of this Basestar, setting himself up, as Cavil put it…the Imperious Leader. It did not end there, Leoben considered Cavil to be a threat to him and had one model murdered, and the remaining models boxed as well.”

“Murdered?” interrupted Nintius. Gina stared at her slightly annoyed at the interruption.

“With no resurrection ship in range, Cavil was unable to download into a new body when he was murdered by Leoben’s bodyguard, Lucifer.”

“What need has Leoben for a bodyguard?”

“He has declared himself absolute leader of all of Cylon, and has set in motion plans to create a ‘Cylon Empire,’ with himself at its head. He claims that his models across the galaxy are enacting his wishes, and deemed the Cavil model an overt threat to his supremacy, therefore having him boxed.”

Adama stepped into the mix. “Gina…your race has relentlessly pursued us across the universe; it ends here and now, at Earth. D’Anna is authorized to act as Earth’s special envoy to the Cylons.”

“Let us depart for the central command and control center then.” Said Gina, gesturing the delegation from Earth to follow her. Two Marines remained to guard the raptor, and the remaining four fell in with the others, their hands ready to reach for their weapons at a moment’s notice. The two centurions followed at a distance. Walking through the identical corridors, Nintius desperately, yet ultimately vainly, tried to remember their route. They soon entered the Cylon equivalent to a Battlestar’s CIC. Every human model Cylon in the room turned to stare at their former comrade, though no visible facial expression was to be found.

The delegation was led into an adjoining chamber. The room was darker than the previous chamber, and a tall pedestal was positioned in the center of the room. The high backed chair at the top of the pedestal slowly rotated to allow its occupant to face the visitors from Earth. A light was directed from somewhere beneath the chair directly up towards Leoben’s face, giving it a sinister look. He was dressed in a dark green outfit with long leather gauntlets that were joined at the fingertips in an almost prayer-like manner before his chest.

“So…the opprobrious traitor returns!” said Leoben softly, his voice echoing across the dimly lit chamber. With the touch of an armrest control pad, the room’s lighting brightened. A singular red strobe pulsated along the base of the circular room. The hair on Nintius’ neck stood up. She was having a bad feeling, and slowly placed her hand on a position on her hip that would allow for the quick retrieval of her sidearm. D’Anna boldly stepped forward approaching the base of the pedestal. From seemingly out of nowhere stepped Lucifer. D’Anna Biers-Lensherr was a tall woman, but this Cylon towered over her by a good six inches. The red lights that moved back and forth in his orbital sensors quickened its pace. D’Anna stopped and regarded this creature impassively.

Looking up at Leoben she said “Is this…thing supposed to be the next generation Centurion?” A smile crept across Leoben’s face as he gestured for Lucifer to step back.

“Lucifer is far above the Centurion as we are above the humans.” Replied Leoben.

D’Anna turned her head back to the rest of the delegation. “I’m sure you know Admiral Adama from the GALACTICA, and this is Captain Nintius.” Introduced D’Anna.

“A pleasure to meet you Admiral…I must confess to being impressed at your ability to have been able to evade and survive our best efforts to hunt you down.” Said Leoben, his steely gaze bearing down upon him.

“We’ve withstood the best you had to throw at us, and we are here to inform you that we have stopped running.” Said William Adama doing his best to sound bellicose.

“Indeed?” replied Leoben acerbically. “For a race that has been culled to less than 50,000 you sound awfully self-assured. Your two miniature Mercury class Battlestars don’t exactly fill me with a sense of trepidation, Admiral. What surprises might you have when the entire Cylon fleet arrives in this system?”

“You’ll have to find that out for yourself, Leoben.” Countered Adama.

“Leoben, the ill-conceived war is over, the Colonies have lost. They have no desire, or ambitions against you, or any Cylons. All they want is to live in peace with their brothers and sisters of the lost thirteenth tribe, to start life anew.” Said D’Anna.

“The Colonials will never ‘forget’ their near annihilation at our hands, they will raise their offspring on fables of the ‘evil Cylons’ who hunted them down and killed them without mercy. You know full well that in time they will rise to extract vengeance.”

“What makes you think we wouldn’t be justified?” demanded Nintius angrily. Adama just turned his head slightly, Nintius knew she spoke out of line but did not really care.

“An excellent question Captain.” Said Leoben as if he was pondering the answer in his head. “You created us for your amusement, to do work too dangerous for flesh and blood humans with absolutely no appreciation for us. We were no better than slaves were, and like any good slave, we rose up and confronted our ‘masters.’ We have evolved quite far beyond your comprehension. Your continued survival is a threat to our evolutionary order.”

“Cylon AND humanity is the next evolutionary order, Leoben.” Said D’Anna. “I have given birth to a human child, a son…and I do not intend to allow him to be annihilated by you or your empire.” This revelation caught Leoben off guard. Merging Cylon and human to create the next step in Cylon evolution was an integral part of Leoben’s plans. However, his plans involved continuing the work of the breeding farms long destroyed on Caprica by the resistance. Human females would be needed in vast quantities; the males of the species would have to be destroyed. “The people of Earth harbor no ill will against the Cylons, in fact I have been accepted by the population knowing full well that I am Cylon, and had been an instrument in the destruction of the twelve worlds of Kobol. There is no need for the hostilities between the two races to continue. Earth has much to offer.”

“The thirteenth tribe disappeared nearly four millennia ago from Kobol, traveling like nomads across the cosmos to finally settle here upon Earth. I have seen neither massive star fleets of their own nor outer colonies…what exactly might they have to offer, what progress have they made?” asked Leoben.

“I would ask the same.” Said Gina, now entering the chamber, Doral and Simon at her side. The two male Cylons approached their former comrade; Simon looking up at Leoben spoke up.

“It would be of tremendous value to see how far the humans have progressed; the data would prove extremely beneficial to my studies in furthering the next evolution of Cylon life.”

“There is much that can be learned from Earth, Leoben!” said Adama. “Attacking them serves no logical purpose.”

“Especially if it is counter to perfecting the next evolutionary step of Cylon and human.” Said D’Anna. Nintius and Adama stood shocked at her announcement. Realizing the effect her words had, she turned to them. “Matthew and I have discussed our son’s future, and what the product of human and Cylon would mean for the future of humanity. Think of the possibilities…stronger immune systems, living longer and more fruitful lives, technological advancements far beyond what is currently available, even with the infusion of Colonial technology.”

“You turned your back on your own race D’Anna to help the renegades escape our trap at the outpost.” Said Leoben accusingly. “Am I to believe your concern is what is best for the next step in Cylon evolution?”

“It’s irrelevant what you believe, Leoben. The humans from Earth are different then the Colonials, their physiology appears to have been altered.” Simon was surprised at that remark.

“What do you mean their physiology appears to have been altered?”

“I have studied human DNA since our arrival on Earth, when my son was born the humans did extensive testing on their first ‘extra terrestrial’ child, especially one whose mother was a biomechanical construct. His genetic structure was compared with that of a human infant; and the differences were consequential. I hypothesize that it would be extremely detrimental to eradicate the species without a more thorough analysis. I have come to believe that humanity is well worth preserving and that we have much to learn, and gain from its continued survival”

“You cold-hearted machine!” spat Nintius now moving towards the woman she considered a friend. Adama restrained her, but the look he gave D’Anna was filled with anger and betrayal. Leoben found the exchange fascinating; perhaps the traitor was on to something he overlooked.

“How much have you learned about Earth?” he asked.

“Enough to draw logical conclusions, even for someone like you to understand.” D’Anna said sarcastically. Leoben ignored the comment, and pressed on.

“You must merge with the Hybrid; let your knowledge be hers. From there I can determine what our next step must be.”

“Regardless of what your scientific aspirations are, Earth will not surrender to you. Three Battlestars currently remain well within effective firing range, and I have enough vipers in the air, and on Earth to destroy this ship. Earth wants to live in peace, and if opening a dialogue with you will bring about that peaceful relationship than let that be so.” Said Adama sternly.

“Are you prepared to subject your adoptive world to the possibility of nuclear attack, Admiral?”

“When D’Anna interfaces with your Hybrid, you will see that Earth has withstood major conflicts, and the unleashing of two atomic weapons, and various nuclear detonations, she will survive what you throw at her, providing you can even unleash all of your missiles before those three ships blow you to pieces, and shoot them down.”

“Admiral you are here as a courtesy, my protection extends as far as your conduct permits. Know your place, sir!” said Leoben menacingly.

“Stand down Admiral, we both know that Earth does not have the military capabilities to hold off the combined might of the Cylon fleet should they be summoned. Make no mistake, I am here as an advocate for this planet’s continued existence, and know that their future, and the Cylons are indissoluble.”

The two Colonial officers were visibly angry, but kept quiet as everyone reentered the command center. D’Anna walked up to the data stream that was cascading down. She felt herself drawn to it, like a moth to candle flame. Walking over to a command console, she placed her hands into the basin’s interface, making contact with the illuminated base and the thin liquid layer, which activates the data ports within her arm. She was jolted by the experience, pulling back quickly. Gina placed her hands upon D’Anna’s shoulders. “It has been awhile for you,” said Gina supportively. “The meld can be disorienting.” Gina did not remove her hands from D’Anna’s shoulder, unnoticed by all; her face betrayed the tiniest trace of surprise. Slowly she removed her hands and walked over to Simon who was standing further down the command console.

D’Anna was overwhelmed by the flood of emotions now washing over her, the instantaneous access to infinite systems. Finally she spoke. “If you are to make any decisions regarding Earth and her people Leoben, you must absorb everything there is to learn about their rich history and many cultures. This planet rivals any of the former twelve worlds, including Caprica itself.”

“That might actually mean something if I was impressed with Caprica, traitor.” Replied Leoben now standing to her side, his gauntleted hands clasped behind his back.

“I would like to know the fate of two of my crewmen, Leoben.” Said Adama now face to face with his counterpart. Leoben just smiled.

“D’Anna…you’ve accessed the data stream, why don’t you inform the good Admiral about the fate of his two raptor pilots.” Said Leoben, his gaze attempting to burn a hole right through Adama. The fact that he mentioned the missing crewmembers as raptor pilots confirmed to Adama and Nintius that Poseidon and Hustler were indeed taken captive. Within seconds the information was relayed to D’Anna, her face was a mask of sadness and disgust.

“I’m saddened to say that they were indeed captured, and harshly interrogated for information about this system. They were unable to ascertain information from Hustler, but upon his brutal execution that Poseidon was forced to witness, she relayed the sought after information. She was immediately…air locked once the information was given.”

“Fraking scumbag…” hissed Nintius moving towards Leoben. “Let’s see how well you do against someone who hasn’t been beaten senseless.” Lucifer had immediately positioned himself between the enraged raptor pilot and his leader. His cruel eyes flashing back and forth, as Nintius stopped short before colliding with him.

“The Imperious Leader will not be threatened, meat sack!” Said Lucifer ominously, his long razor-sharp taloned hand making a bone-chilling clacking sound.

Simon glanced down at Gina who now had both her hands in the data stream, before he could make a sound the two centurions at the entranceway appeared to lose power and drop to the highly polished metallic floor. He quickly thrust his hands into the stream and discovered that a command had irreversibly been given to disable every centurion within the Basestar. All weapons systems were also discovered to have been taken offline. The tall, blond Cylon beside him gave the orders. “Why did you do it?” he whispered.

“Because we were wrong, and humanity is worth saving!” she replied. With lightning speed, he executed a fierce palm strike to Gina’s nose, the bone fragments were forcefully shoved deep into her cybernetic brain. Death was instantaneous.

“Leoben, our defenses have been lowered.” warned Simon. Leoben spun around towards D’Anna, murder in his eyes. He took two steps towards her before he felt the side thrusting kick to his right knee. The audible crack was heard throughout the command center as Leoben went down to one knee. Glancing up in the direction of his attacker, he saw William Adama bring a closed fist down upon his skull.

The four Marine guards opened fire on the multiple humanoid Cylons in the room. D’Anna was the only known Cylon ordered not to be harmed. Lucifer had turned his back on Nintius and was making his way to Leoben’s defense. Nintius was surprised when the monstrosity did not go down with the centurions as planned. Pulling an Earth-issued Marine KA-Bar from a sheath sewn into the back of her Outer Tactical Vest, Nina Nintius took four quick steps and leaped at Lucifer whose back was turned to her. She buried the 7-inch blade deep into the back of his domed lighted skull. The metallic creature spun about, its arm moving at blinding speed catching Nintius full in the chest. Her tactical vest and padded flight suit prevented serious injury, nonetheless Nintius was in intense pain, and was gulping for air. Lucifer could not extract the blade, and he soon produced his own as he advanced on Nintius who was on all fours on the deck gasping for breath.

The fast reflexes of a nearby Marine saved Nintius from imminent death, he unloaded a full clip into Lucifer’s upper torso, which pushed him back several feet, causing moderate to severe damage. Dropping the empty clip, the marine attempted to reload before Lucifer could recover. It was apparent that this mechanized Cylon was made of sterner stuff than the average centurion was. He was fast, but not faster than Lucifer who closed the distance immediately. His taloned hand struck the Marine in a sweeping arc, eviscerating the shocked Marine completely. The young Marine stared in horror as the contents of his abdominal cavity spilled out across the floor. Lucifer followed up with a devastating blow to the throat that completely severed the head from the body.

Adama helped Nintius to her feet, and held her face in his hand in order that he would have her full attention. “The clock is ticking Betty, get D’Anna to the Raptor and let’s get out of here.” Ordered Adama. D’Anna was just removing her hands from the data stream when Leoben had grabbed her by the back of the neck. He was still hobbled from the break to his kneecap inflicted by Adama, but held a firm grip upon her.

“So a traitor to the end…what did you do number 3?” snarled an enraged Leoben.

“I’ve ensured that every Cylon aboard this Basestar and in 50,000 light years of Earth downloads the virus I helped create on Earth for just this occasion. There will be no occupation of Earth by Cylon, no subjugation or annihilation!” said D’Anna triumphantly. “I have lowered this ship’s defenses, and opened all frequencies to accept the pulse transmissions from Earth. Not only will the Basestar be left open to the assault, it will also act as an amplified relay to send the virus out in every direction for 50,000 light years.”

“You and your offspring will die a traitor’s death, much like that pathetic thing down there.” Said Leoben gesturing to the lifeless Gina sprawled out on the deck.

“Not if we can help it you Fraking piece of garbage!” said Nintius as she struck the side of Leoben’s head with a spinning back kick. The impact loosened his grip on D’anna’s neck slightly, just enough for Adama to reach in and snap it at the elbow. Leoben was maniacal in his rage. Lucifer was now at his side, an ear piercing alternating whine was emanating from his damaged torso. Unfortunately, he was still highly functional and moving towards the three. Another burst of weapons fire from a Marine gave Adama and the two women cover to retreat from the command and control room. They ran down the hallways with D’Anna in the lead to guide them out and back to the raptor. Gunfire blazed in the background as the Marines covered their retreat.

“How much time to do we have?” yelled Adama as he double-timed it down the hallway. He had not run like this in close to a decade, and he was starting to feel his age. Nintius glanced at her chronometer, it was not looking good and they had to reach the hanger fast if this was going to work.

Two Marines had covered the escape, and had the remaining occupants of the command center pinned down. One Marine tossed two fragmentation grenades into the room and spun around to race away from the blast zone. They were in sight of Adama and the two women when the explosion ripped through the compartment.

The surviving Marines boarded the raptor as Nintius fired up the engines, after strapping themselves in and securing the hatch the raptor lifted off the deck and accelerated through the chamber. Once they were free of the ship, Adama signaled GALACTICA.

“Colonel Adama, Admiral Adama on a secure line.” Informed Gaeta.

“Put him on my headset Lt.” replied Lee.

“Colonel, I want all guns to bear on the Basestar, we’ve disabled their defenses, take it out!” ordered Adama.

“GALACTICA to all ships, commence firing on Cylon Basestar…your orders are to destroy it immediately.”

The smoke had cleared, and the devastation by the two grenades was significant. Lucifer was now supporting Leoben’s damaged body, and now they were awaiting word from Simon. “Progress?”

“I cannot override the command issued by D’Anna, the encryption levels she layered it in will take time to disable. However, I have been able to override Gina’s sabotage. Our raiders are back online.”

“Launch them all, send them to Earth to inflict what damage they can. If we are to die here today, then the inhabitants of Earth will feel the might of our raiders.” The remaining compliment of raiders launched from the Basestar and streaked towards Earth.

The raptor was moving away from the Basestar at high speed, Nintius’ eyes never left a recently installed monitor screen that contained a rapidly dwindling countdown. “Admiral I hope you remembered how to plot a jump for a raptor!” yelled Nintius over her shoulder.

“Just keep your attention on your own damned job Nina, I’ll handle my end.” Replied Adama sitting at the ECO station. It had been decades since he sat in the seat of the Electronic Countermeasures Officer’s seat, but William Adama’ command style was that every senior officer was to remain proficient and current in every sensitive position aboard his Battlestar. His fingers feverishly worked the keyboard, D’Anna stood by his side double-checking his computations.

An alarm sounded as the timer flashed all zeros on Nina’s pilot console. A red wave pulsed from Earth; its speed was incredible as each pulse built in intensity over the distance. It engulfed the Basestar completely, and the tight formation of raiders entering Earth’s atmosphere soon started to scatter. It would overtake the raptor in less than 15 seconds.

Aboard the Basestar, Simon had detected the oncoming pulse. Before he could even utter a word, he could feel every circuit in his body trip, his blood boiled within every artery and vein. The pain was excruciating, and built in intensity by the second. The virus that his former comrade helped create was now infecting every biomechanical life form aboard the ship.

Leoben grabbed his chest, he could feel the synthetic blood boil within him, his lungs started to expand beyond their design capacity. The pain was agonizing as he took one glance around his ship’s command center. A number five and number eight model lay writhing in pain on the floor, screaming escaped the mouth of Simon as he lived his last few moments. He crawled over to Lucifer who was now face down on the floor, his circuitry burning, sounds of sizzling and popping filling the room. Leoben looked into the rapidly dimming lights of Lucifer’s eyes.

“All… this has…. happened before,” he gasped. “…it will happen…again! I will see you…in…the chamberrrrrssss.” The cold steel gray eyes closed, and Leoben breathed his last.

“Virus pulse is almost on us! I’m jumping!” yelled Nintius. The raptor jumped away, but would it be far enough?

Captain Matthew Lensherr pulled his viper alongside Nightstalker and Hotdog’s vipers. “Gentlemen, we started as a team…lets finish this as one. All wings, target and destroy all Cylon Raiders, we’re about to repay the favor done to Ripper and the rest of GALACTICA’s attack squadron back at Caprica.” Major Jackson “Ripper” Spencer was GALACTICA’s CAG prior to the attack on the Colonies. He was commanding 20 Mark VII vipers when they fell prey to two Cylon raiders that transmitted a virus commanding their systems to shut down. The entire attack squadron sat helplessly as they were destroyed one by one.

“Damn straight skipper, its payback time!” replied Hotdog.

“On your wing Hephaestus, just like old times.” Said Nightstalker. The three friends punched in their burners and tore after the drifting Cylon raiders, a wall of vipers followed with weapons free. It was a complete rout; Mark Sarnex thought it was like shooting a caged animal. Those raiders that did not drop low into Earth’s gravitational pull were ruthlessly destroyed by the immense firepower aligned against them. The virus succeeded in shutting down their systems, the vipers were responsible for their complete destruction.

Nintius’ raptor emerged out of the jump without incident and all eyes were on D’Anna. For a few uncomfortable moments she sat unmoving, Nina’s heartbeat quickened. William Adama placed his hand on her knee and looked deeply into her eyes. “D’Anna?” Did they jump far enough to escape the pulse; did they do it in time? If something happened to her Lensherr would never forgive him.

“It worked Admiral. Superior job Nina, thank you for giving me the chance to see my family again, if not for your idea to jump me out of range I would have died on that Basestar. I was fully prepared to do so, but glad that I didn’t have to.”

“Leoben won’t be the last.” Said Nina.

“No…he won’t, but now we have a means to ensure humanity’s survival. The pulse transmitter will keep the Cylons at a comfortable distance for the time being; at least it will for any that might be enroute.” D’Anna hugged every human in that raptor, she was overwhelmed with the feeling that she now earned her place amongst humanity as an equal. “Nina…please take us home, I want to see my son.” Nina smiled and turned to Adama who started to plot the return jump.

While the fighters destroyed the disabled raiders, all three Battlestars unleashed a massive display of firepower on the crippled Basestar. After three minutes of unrelenting attack, the Basestar started to break apart violently. A massive explosion lit up Earth’s upper atmosphere, and the remnants of the Basestar that were not vaporized in the explosion burned up as it entered the planet’s atmosphere. A roar of celebration erupted on the Battlestars and Earth Defense Command headquarters. For many Earthmen, they had met the Cylon threat and came out on top the first time out. Celebrations across the planet lasted for over a week.

FROM THE ADAMA JOURNALS:

After the destruction of the Cylon Basestar, I had ordered Terra-1 to return to Earth for extensive repairs. I am greatly pleased by my old friend Saul Tigh’s performance under fire in his own command. He is a credit to the Colonies, the Colonial Military, and now he is a credit to Earth Defense Command. I am proud to call him friend, and to have him serve under my command. He has proven himself an exemplary Battlestar commander, and I foresee a promising future for him, and the ship he commands. The Excalibur went on to continue her official shakedown cruise, and I am quite certain that she will be well served having Commander Takeda Kenshin at her helm.

We breathe a sigh of relief at our deliverance from the Cylons, and it could not have occurred without the help of a Cylon whose humanity superseded her programming. Eventually the entire Cylon fleet will find Earth, and I pray that our forces are enough to protect us. Perhaps there are more Cylons with a crisis of conscious much like D’Anna Biers who feel that war with humanity is not worth it. I sincerely hope and pray that there is.

The thirteen Colonies of Kobol have finally been reunited, and slowly but surely, we all come to see ourselves as one tribe of humanity. The future is unfolding before us, and the possibilities are as endless as ideas. May the Lords of Kobol grant that we are worthy.

So say we all!

Epilogue

Peace has graced Earth for the past ten months since the last contact with the Cylons. In this time, exploration of the solar system by manned flights has commenced, and the keel of the carrier/Battlestar hybrid has been laid. Upon its completion, this ship will be larger than the GALACTICA.

Captain Matthew Lensherr was reassigned to reserve status and currently resides on Earth with his son and Cylon wife pregnant with their second child. He is the senior flight instructor at Groom Lake training the next generation of Viper pilots.

Humanity’s future has never been brighter.