RPG Silver One: Civil War

[Rachmaninoff]

Darren did his best to keep in his irritation as well as his disgust over what had happened in sector seven. Just as he did his best to hide how much he hated his current assignment, writing up the new protocol to cover what Stevens had in mind and then finally being able to leave his quarters to head to the computer specialist on the [I]Conqueror[/I] in order to have it written up to his specifications. Ones that as he handed the data chip over to the man had him giving Darren an odd look as he took a moment to write it up to do as the instructions required.

“[B]Are you sure you want to do this sir?[/B]” He finally asked. “[B]You do realize the problem with this, right?[/B]”

“[B]I do, but unfortunately, I have my orders.[/B]” Darren replied. “[B]Though why I need to be the one to write it up is beyond me.[/B]” Though if he had any say about it, things would not be done according to Stevens wishes, oh how he wanted to say no to the order, though he knew he could not.

“[B]Well I can answer that,[/B]” the specialist said. “[B]Even though you don’t write up the specific code, the manner in which your protocols work is inconsistent with how standard programming works. You’re line of reasoning is completely different. Though that’s a good thing since it makes it harder to simply write something up to bypass the guidelines you’ve set up.[/B]”

Confused Darren took a seat across from the specialists terminal. “[B]What do you mean?[/B]”

“[B]Most verification programs are by law required to follow a set pattern, they must conform to a set of protocols for how information is processed in the network, but in order for your’s to work, it requires doing things differently, otherwise, the updates wouldn’t happen so quickly.[/B]”

Darren had no idea what he was talking about, but then he was not a computer specialist, he only knew what would work best to make illegal shipping and profiteering harder, it had never occurred to him that it was contrary to how standard information was processed.

The specialist just laughed at his confused expression. “[B]It’s nothing to worry about, it’s not that hard for someone like me to write up what you want, it just requires hackers to actually use their brains to get around it, that’s all. Because it’s habit for them to expect things to work a certain way. So forcing us to change the standard process in order to meet your specifications is a good thing.[/B]”

“[B]I’ll take your word for it.[/B]” Darren said as the specialist handed him the data chip back with the newly written code.

“[B]If you need any other changes, just let me know.[/B]”

Darren politely thanked him and then left the computer lab, pausing only long enough to pull up his hand held computer to contact Stevens to let him know he had the program he wanted ready. But when Stevens simply indicated he was to bring it to his quarters where he was located, Darren couldn’t help but stifle a groan. Of all places, the very last one he ever wanted to be at was Stevens quarters.[I] Oh hell.[/I] He thought with exasperation as he got in the lift and had it take him to the level where Stevens quarters were, it wasn’t too far from his own, just on the next level up.

But it didn’t stop him from getting knowing glances from the crew, glances that just made him want to scream. He didn’t want to go to Stevens quarters and he couldn’t help that others knew what Stevens was like. [I]Great, just great,[/I] he thought as he pressed the panel to alert Stevens that he was there. [I]By the end of the day, it will be all over the damn fleet.[/I] A fact that just put him in a bad mood as the doors opened and Stevens told him to enter. The fact that he'd rather die than be near Stevens wouldn't matter, the rumors would spread just like they had about him and Jared when he was required to help with taking over Earth.

For just a brief moment he lost that anger as the shock over how excessive Stevens quarters were hit. It was positively unreal in how they made even his quarters look small. It was in his opinion a complete and total waste of space. Even the furniture and other decorations were overly done and far too expensive. It was clear, based on what he knew from when he was a merchant, that the room alone cost more than his ship, the [I]Wilkey[/I] did.

Darren jumped slightly when the door closed behind him and then again when Stevens entered the main room from his office and laughed at his expression before taking a seat on one of the plush chairs and motioning for Darren to do the same.

"[B]I see that you have not taken my advice Darren,[/B]" He smirked. "[B]I suggest you work on that or I really will give the crew something to gossip about.[/B]"

With an inward groan he handed Stevens a copy of the data chip he had made while on his way to his quarters, carefully avoiding accidentally touching his hand before he sat down across from him.

"[B]That should do what you have in mind.[/B]" Darren told him as Stevens used his own hand held computer to take a look. "[B]It goes without saying that as soon as this war is over I will have that removed from the standard protocols.[/B]" He looked away. "[B]It's entirely possible that we'll have to do that before the war is over, since I'm sure the New Alliance will move to counter that once they realize what happened.[/B]"

Stevens just smiled. "[B]Excellent.[/B]" He pocketed the data chip and gave Darren a knowing look. "[B]I suggest you head back to your quarters and start thinking of other ways you can help to bring this war to a close.[/B]" He stood up and sighed dramatically.

"[B]In the mean time, get lost before I change my mind. Your clueless looks and overly tense body language is irritating.[/B]" He shook his head and then patted Darren on the left cheek, laughing over how Darren went stiff and pulled away.

"[B]I mean it, get lost before your pretty face has me doing things that would make even your sister blush.[/B]"

Darren didn't need a second warning as he couldn't get out of there fast enough. Though Stevens mocking laugher just made him flush with embarrassment even more than he had when he had patted him on the cheek. Furious, he stalked back to his quarters, unable to hide just how frustrated and angry he felt.

[Horendithas]

[COLOR="Indigo"][SIZE="1"]Sandra was not amused as she watched the flurry of activity as the fleet finished reestablishing Versilan Rule in sector seven. Just as she was not amused with how her meeting with Vallon Drace had gone earlier that morning when she reprimanded him for having killed one of the three representatives. Especially when she had learned that the circumstances clearly dictated that there was no reason or valid justification for his actions in that respect. Though technically the meeting in her quarters had gone well enough, after all it was clear that Drace understood just what was needed to maintain his current status and continue to do well within the Versilan military. No officer rose to his position without understanding just how to deal with one’s superiors. It didn’t change the impression she got that he didn’t take her very seriously, High Council member or not.

Then there was the full knowledge that had reached them that the two High Council members who had been visiting sector thirteen were presumed to be either dead or in the hands of the New Alliance. Part of her was irritated, both at the New Alliance as well as at the two members who had been too foolish to return to sector one upon learning of the attack in sector fourteen. But even that paled to finding out that Stevens had completely neglected to inform her that he had made arrangements based on what could only be inside information to send a fleet there to deal with the forces in sector thirteen. It was his right as Fleet Admiral, but still as always, it annoyed her to no end how he enjoyed leaving her out of the loop.

And yet, even that paled at her genuine anger and irritation over the rumors Stevens was allowing to circulate throughout the fleet regarding him and Darren Anderson, the Shipping Expert. Sandra wasn’t even aware she was gripping her drink too tightly until with a snap it shattered, sending shards of the material to the floor in her quarters. With a sigh she dropped what was left on the floor and simply ignored it in favor of going into the small kitchen area to clean up a bit. Then, once she was a little less irritated she cleaned up the shards, tossing them into the small waste chute in the kitchen area.

Sandra was wondering a little as to why she was feeling so irritated when the chime indicating someone was at the door to her quarters sounded, reminding her that she was suppose to be meeting with Jared to go over a few details that afternoon. With a curt command to enter issued, she picked up her hand held computer sitting on her desk before moving to join Jared who had entered and was patiently waiting just inside the door.

“[B]Take a seat,[/B]” Sandra commanded after doing so herself, pausing only long enough to smooth out the folds in her uniform as she brought her mind back to where it should be, dwelling on the next step instead of things that did not matter.

Jared as if sensing her mood simply gave her the half bow required and then reached into his pocket and fished out a data chip that he then tossed to Sandra before sitting down and then waiting patiently as she inserted it and leaned back a bit to go over everything in his report.

“[B]So, the two remaining representatives Joseph Steiner and Ana Crowe have been shipped off to sector one.[/B]” It was a statement of fact and not meant to be answered and Jared merely waited for Sandra to continue.

“[B]It seems that the High Council will have to settle for only two of the traitors instead of all three,[/B]” Sandra was clearly annoyed, but Jared was certain that the death of the Representative was not what was bothering her.

“[B]Two is more than enough, even if the death of Garrick Kublai violated your orders.[/B]” Jared decided to be blunt, as he often was when dealing with Sandra. As much as he personally had no issues dealing with her or her position as a Council member, he had no patience for what he perceived as a personal agenda or irritation that was irrelevant to one’s position.

“[B]However, I am certain that Drace’s mistake is not what’s bothering you.[/B]” Jared braced himself at Sandra’s sudden and immediately look of irritation, warning him to drop it, but he did not. “[B]It’s simple Sandra, you’re annoyed with Stevens and I hardly need to explain why.[/B]”

With a snap she shut her hand held computer down and got up and left to go and stare out the window’s into space, issuing a curt order for Jared to leave before turning her back on him, but he did not, getting up with a sigh of his own as he moved over until he was just behind her.

“[B]Sandra, you know that as your second in command I cannot simply leave. I need to know if you wish for any disciplinary action to be taken against Drace for failing to follow orders, just as I need to know if you wish for me to also send former Commander Chevast to sector one or simply handle his interrogation myself.[/B]”

“[B]Other than the official reprimand on his record, I have no intention of doing anything with Sub-Commander Drace. For the moment, that ruthless reputation of his is serving a purpose and I have no intention of changing that. As for Chevast,[/B]” She turned to face Jared, finally gracing him with a tiny smile.

“[B]I know how much you enjoy interrogations, so there’s no reason to ship him to sector one, not when you’d get more out of him than those fools ever would.[/B]”

“[B]In that case I’ll arrange for some of the clearance Drace would need to oversee part of my own duties while I attend to Chevast.[/B]” Jared started to open up his hand held computer to make a note but a sharp no from Sandra brought him up short.

“[B]I’ll take care of the few duties you are referring to, with such a strong reprimand on his record so soon after assuming the role of Sub-Commander of the [I]Creator[/I], I think it’s best to wait before giving him any clearance beyond the duties his position requires.[/B]”

Jared’s eyes widened slightly at the implication of that statement, even if it was well within procedure, it would clearly show a displeasure on her part towards her newest Sub-Commander. It would be all over the [I]Creator[/I] within hours once she attended to some of his duties while enroute to sector eight. Everyone would know that Drace was being reprimanded for what he had done. And being a High Council member herself, that displeasure or reprimand would be taken in a more serious light than if Jared were to do it himself.

“[B]Are you sure?[/B]” Jared finally asked her.

“[B]Quite. Though I am pleased overall with his performance, it would not sit well for it to appear to him or others that we were simply looking the other way in regards to his conduct.”[/B] Sandra turned back to looking out the window. “[B]The other issue, in regards to Stevens is personal as you well know. Unless there are other things you wish to discuss, you are dismissed Jared.[/B]”

Jared bowed, even though with her back turned she could not see it. “[B]Understood, I’ll finish making the preparations so that we can depart for sector eight as soon as possible.[/B]” He turned and then exited her quarters, heading for the bridge to finish with the preparations. Eager to be done and on their way, it had been far too long since he had conducted a full interrogation. And the sooner he could get started, the better.[/SIZE][/COLOR]

[TheResplendent]

[FONT="Tahoma"]Vallon kept his focus on Celestia with each word of disdain she spat at him. When he saw her cut herself off he stood in place, brandishing his favorite piece from his ancient civilization weapons collection, an obsidian shamshir. Jason and Celestia stood quiet, Jason finally able to get a hold of her physically and pushing her behind himself. He walked slowly up to them, Jason only dared to take one step back for fear of being hastened after for trying to get away. He reeled back his hand which held the sword and promptly brought it down onto where Celestia was, causing her to tighten her grip onto Jason and turn her head away from fear. Vallon stilled his hand however and stopped the blade near inches away from Jason's arm, which was quickly put up to protect Celestia.

Vallon just laughed, [b]Come on now, you two are such cowards. I had no intention of striking either of you.[/b] Jason mentally wiped a bead of sweat from his head as he watched the versilan sub-commander waltz back to his chair.

He sat back down and made himself comfortable yet again. Pheonia stood by his side stoically. Celestia almost bursting into tears shoved Jason aside and went to address him again.

[b]"You're a monster! I'd rather die then be on the same ship as you!"[/b] she blurted out in an emotional outrage.

[b]"Oh come, I did what i had to. That's the nature of battle, isn't it? You're admonishing me for killing, why not walk up to each and every single soldier and tell them about your oh so passionate disapproval? I can assure you their answer would be pretty similar. Nobody cares about your bleeding heart, slave."[/b] he explained coldly.

[b]"Anyway, you are here for a reason and it isn't to chastise. In fact, I think it best for you both to remain quiet altogether until I prompt you to speak. Now...you, why don't you tell me why you two broke protocol and retired to your quarters and refused to work during the invasion?"[/b] he asked, aimed at Jason to respond.

[b]"It was an order from Commander Matheson, it wasn't that we refused to work!"[/b] Jason answered with a sneer.

[b]"Commander...oh! The good doctor, no? Well is that a fact. It seems her disrespect for my authority knows no bounds."[/b] Vallon muttered to himself. Celestia looked like she wanted to keep going with her rants but Jason saw fit to stop her before she really angered Drace.

Vallon stood and sighed arrogantly as he placed his sword back on it's display. He turned to the two slaves and noticed the still angry look on Celestia's face. He pondered whether to leave well enough alone, but found himself tempted to provoke her further. He walked in their direction slowly, but Pheonia took notice and acted before he could reach his destination.

[b]"Sir, it's time we see Commander Scorer about our post-battle orders. We're already five minutes late."[/b] she said, exaggerating the time for the sake of Celestia. Vallon just sucked his teeth and glared back at her.

[b]"Well, from what I hear the Commander will be departing soon. I suppose part of these orders would be to put me in charge of The Creator for the time being. That is certainly worth hearing afterall, so perhaps your concern warrants my attention properly."[/b]

He turned his attention back to Jason and Celestia. [b]"I'll make this clear now, and if you disobey me in the future I will make sure you wish you'd never wake up again. You answer to me, nobody else. Not only were your progress reports atrocious but you didn't even make any of it up during the last few days. You'd best expedite your work in the next week. Now, get out of my sights."[/b]

Jason didn't hesitate to grab hold of Celestia and hurry them out of Vallon's quarters. He sneered as they left and grabbed his coat. Pheonia led the way toward the door and opened it for him.

[b]"It's rather unfortunate this will only be temporary, but it will present a rather nice opportunity to rally the soldiers more effectively. Let's go, Pheonia."[/b][/FONT]

[Aaryanna_Mom]

They weren't going to make it in time, even with everyone running things as tightly and quickly as Daniel could have hoped for, it just wasn't going to happen. They were not going to get clear of sector thirteen before the Imperial fleet arrived. He could have immediately issued the order and left, but leaving so many troops and Earthlings trapped was something he simply could not do. Kiva had both the councilors and the all important data on board the Catalyst and whether or not she was finished with her objectives, she would leave. Being able to outrun the fleet would not be an issue for her. The[I] Liberator[/I] would not have it so easy.

Though the damage was not serious, the last two battles had resulted in an overall ten percent drop in both power and efficiency for the ship. If the fleet choose to give chase, it was possible they would be able to force them out of hyperspace. And yet, even knowing this, he could not simply run and leave the others to fend for themselves. Instead he obtained the most likely exit vectors for the fleet and commandeered the remote drones from both the [I]Hunter[/I] and the [I]Transcendence[/I]. Filling them with high quality explosives and then launching them directly into the zone where the fleet would most likely arrive.

It had been fairly simple to tie them into the battle systems so that they would automatically head for any ship not flagged as a friendly one. But at the same time, doing so required at least one ship to stay behind to provide the data feed so the drones would follow the programming to attack any non-friendly ship. They didn't have time to upload the individual program to each drone. Still so long as the Imperial fleet exited within the zone, they would be caught by surprise and that alone would give them more time to retrieve as many people as possible.

Daniel looked at the readout on the main viewer, with the display of the incoming fleet and the countdown until they arrived. In just fifteen minutes they would be there. He looked to see that the last of the transports were coming up from Earth or rather the last group they would have time to pick up. Unfortunately, there were still troops unaccounted for and refugees that they would not have the time to retrieve. Daniel watched as those battleships that were ready broke orbit and moved to get into position to make the jump to hyperspace. At their current rate, nearly thee fourths of the fleet would be gone by the time the Imperial fleet arrived.

"[B]Do you really think the drones will make a difference?[/B]" His second in command spoke up, clearly nervous about the impending battle to get free.

"[B]We'll find out soon enough. In the mean time focus on getting as many of the ships clear as possible.[/B]"

"[B]Yes sir.[/B]"

Daniel resisted the urge to sigh, wondering if he would regret the decision to stick around and ensure that as many ships as possible could escape. Just as he wondered about the wisdom of retrieving as many refugees as possible on the [I]Liberator[/I]. If they were stopped, all of that effort would be for nothing.

"[B]Sir, is it true that Lesera Krales is related to you?[/B]" Spencer asked, refusing to meet Daniel's gaze. "[B]I mean, it's in your record that you have no family.[/B]" He hastily explained when Daniel did not respond.

"[B]Yes, it's true. My father believed that she was dead since she vanished nearly forty years ago.[/B]"

"[B]Uh... I see.[/B]" Spencer finally said.

"[B]I doubt it,[/B]" Daniel said with a half laugh. "[B]But then there's a very long story behind all of that and how I ended up in the Resistance. Anyway, now is not the time for that, bring all sections to full Amber Alert.[/B]"

"[B]Right![/B]" Spencer issued the command, changing the alert from one of evacuation to one of preparing for battle.

Just ten more minutes and the fun would begin. They would either get free or they wouldn't. Even if they did, he was not going to tell Spencer about how he ended up in the Resistance or how surprised and shocked even he had been when Williams had learned that Lesera Krales had not been dead all these years, but had been the head of the research project on Mars all this time.

Daniel hadn't really known much about her anyway, only that Nathan at one time had made the comment that it was sad how people vanished. At the time, he had not known that Nathan was his father nor had he realized that Nathan knew she had not been killed by the Resistance as the High Council had claimed.

The sound of an urgent alert brought him back out of thinking about the past and to the present instead. In just five minutes, they would find out if the drones would do any good. A quick glance at the readout showed that the last of the transports had arrived safely on board the [I]Liberator[/I]. Daniel issued the order to break orbit and to begin heading for the point for the jump to hyperspace. If all went well, the Imperial fleet would show up within the target zone and the moment the drones had been used, they could simply make the jump. But if they were wrong... things were going to get more than just a little interesting.

[Aaryanna]

[COLOR="goldenrod"][FONT="Comic Sans MS"]Crystal finished up her report on those who had perished in sector seven. In just a short while she would be required to present it to Jared, and though she could have just simply sent it to him she decided to do so in person instead. She wasn't sure why other than perhaps a desire to point out that in her opinion, the number of dead was too high. Something that she was positive was due to Vallon Drace's influence. After all that fool had blatantly killed one of the Representatives even though he had been ordered to take them alive.

Pushing those thoughts aside Crystal left the infirmary for the closest lift, entering the destination for the Command quarters where Jared was presently located. She did not bother to call in advance, Jared had always made it clear that she could approach him at any time if needed. A moment later, the door to his quarters was in point blank view and Crystal pressed the panel to alert him that she was there.

A moment later the door opened and Jared's voice could be heard, telling her to enter. Something that Crystal did without hesitation and then she moved to join him in his office when prompted.

"[B]Crystal,[/B]" Jared smiled as she approached him where he was sitting at his desk in his office. "[B]You here for the report?[/B]"

She handed him the data chip and then made herself comfortable in the seat across from his desk to wait while he read through it.

"[B]So, in your opinion there were unnecessary deaths?[/B]" He inquired after glancing through the report. "[B]There's no need to answer that, after all, the issue has already been addressed.[/B]" Jared stood up to get ready to leave. "[B]If you have further concerns we'll have to discuss them later, I have an interrogation to get started.[/B]"

"[B]You're going to sector one?[/B]" Crystal asked as she stood up herself.

"[B]No, Commander Chevast will be kept here on the [I]Creator[/I]. It will take us at least a week and a half to get to sector eight, more than enough time to break him.[/B]" Jared observed.

Crystal just grimaced with distaste, after all, she was familiar with command procedures, "[B]So in other words, Drace will be temporarily in command of the [I]Creator[/I].[/B]" It was a thought that did not sit well with her. [I]Lovely[/I].

Jared just laughed at her look of irritation. "[B]No, after he killed one the Representatives he was officially reprimanded for his actions.[/B]" Jared just smiled, after all, it was clear to him how much Crystal and Vallon disliked one another.

"[B]Sandra will be taking over my duties while I focus on the interrogation. Once we arrive in sector eight, I will continue my duties whether I am finished with the interrogation or not. Though I am quite sure that I will be done before we arrive.[/B]"

"[B]I see.[/B]" Crystal commented, unable to hide how relieved that made her feel. Something that Jared seemed to find amusing.

Jared grabbed his hand held computer and headed for the door to his quarters. "[B]Just let yourself out when you're done.[/B]" He shot back as he took off.

"[B]Let myself out when I'm done?[/B]" Crystal said out loud to herself. "[B]What is he talking about?[/B]" She looked over at the view in his quarters, the floor to ceiling windows that were all along one wall. Even if it was a bit excessive, she was always impressed by it every time she saw it.

Crystal wasn't even aware that she had been staring out into space until the chime indicating that someone was at Jared's door sounded, causing her to jump slightly. [I]I need to get going.[/I] She thought as she moved to both answer the door and leave. But the moment she opened it Vallon Drace shoved his way past her, rudely shoving her aside.

"[B]Where is Commander Scorer?[/B]" He inquired when it was apparent that Jared was not there.

"[B]Jared has left to go and start the interrogation of Commander Chevast.[/B]" Crystal explained. "[B]If you really need to talk to him I'm sure you can find him down in the level one detention area of the[I] Creator[/I].[/B]"

Vallon started to turn to leave and then with a narrowing of his eyes he turned back. "[B]Next time you get the bright idea to order the slaves under my command around, you had better make sure you get clearance from me first.[/B]" He growled at her.

Crystal just gave him her most disapproving look as if he were stupid, trusting in his assistant's presence that he would not behave as he had shortly after returning from the planet. Just thinking about that was enough to cause some of the fear from that incident to resurface, but she shoved it aside and addressed him.

"[B]Clearance? Have you neglected to read the file on Jason and Celestia?[/B]" She said mockingly. "[B]If you had done your duty, then you would know that as their doctor and the one who actually modified them genetically so they would live as long as we do, would have the same increase in strength as well as health, then you would also know what everything I do for them was approved by the High Council.[/B]"

She put both of her hands on her hips and leaned forward a bit to glare at him. "[B]If you have an issue with my commands in regards to those two, take it up with the High Council since I am following their orders which outrank any order that you or anyone on this ship other than Commodore Sandra would give.[/B]"

"[B]Sir![/B]" Pheonia interrupted when it was clear that Drace was starting to get annoyed with Dr. Matheson. "[B]We should go and find Jared to get our orders.[/B]" She cowered back a bit when Vallon turned and glared at her.

"[B]Your orders?[/B]" Crystal laughed, causing Vallon to turn back to her. [I]He doesn't know that he won't get temporary command of the Creator![/I] She knew she shouldn't but the temptation to taunt him was more than she could resist.

"[B]While Jared is dealing with the interrogation of Commander Chevast, you are to report to Commodore Sandra who will be assuming Jared's duties for the time being.[/B]" She couldn't help but smirk at Vallon Drace.

Crystal was wondering what Drace intended to do as it was obvious that he was angry, but the one thing she did not expect was for him to simply turn and stalk off, with Pheonia hastily following along after giving Crystal a tiny bow. With a broad grin and another laugh to herself, Crystal left Jared's quarters and made her way back to the infirmary.[/FONT][/COLOR]

[Blayze]

[SIZE=1]The transport ship landed back in the hangar bay, and Kreid leapt out before it had even stopped moving. He landed at a run and didn't stop until he was almost at the security office. The refugees from Earth were safe back on board the flagship, and Kreid's assignments were all but completed. Still, there was the problem of his security breach being detected, and he needed to address it, no matter what kind of measures he may have to take.

He knocked on the screen door of the security office, and Franklin waved him in. He pushed the door open and stepped inside the glass cube, walking swiftly but steadily over to the console that Franklin and another security team member were hunched over.

[B]"Sir, I just came to report that the refugees are all safely back onboard. We've cleared everyone we know about from the surface of Earth, and sent anyone who needs medical attention to the sick bay."

"Good work, Kreid. Me and Andrews are close to finding our mole now," [/B]replied Franklin, never looking up from the console, [B]"I tell you, this one's an elusive one. Whoever it is has managed to block all traces until now. Guess they must finally be slipping up."

"I suppose you're right, sir," [/B]said Kreid calmly, although a single droplet of nervous sweat was running from his hairline down to his brow, [B]"At least we've almost got him now."

"That's true. We'd be able to find him a lot quicker, too, if it wasn't for these blasted attacks on the ship. They've knocked the power down by ten percent, and looks like there's more to come. The Versilan fleet is due to drop out of hyperspace any minute, and that means we're in trouble."

"If only Landers had gotten us out sooner."

"It's all very well you saying that, but if we'd jumped to hyperspace earlier, we'd have had to leave anyone who was on Earth behind. And if you know Daniel Landers like I do, you know that's one thing he would never do."

"Sir," [/B]said the security consultant sitting at the computer screen, [B]"We've got a signal match. We just need to trace it to an individual's personal computer - it'll take a couple of minutes, max."

"Finally we get to take a look at this bastard," [/B]said Franklin, leaning over the console again, [B]"Stick around, Kreid. I'm going to need you to help me take this guy into custody."

[/B]More beads of sweat now began to dribble down Kreid's forehead, dripping steadily into his eyes. He blinked to try and extract the salty liquid from stinging his eyes, but it continued to work its way down his face. He swallowed, and gave his response:

[B]"Certainly, sir," [/B]he replied, [B]"Anything you need."

"Are you ok, Kreid?" [/B]asked Franklin, looking up at him, [B]"You look terrible."

"I think I'm just dehydrated, sir," [/B]replied Kreid, [B]"I haven't had much to drink since we reached Earth."

"Well, let me get you some water," [/B]said Franklin, moving away from the console to a filter in the corner of the room, and poured Kreid a glass of water, [B]"Here you go," [/B]he said, handing his soldier the glass. Kreid drank it down, not quite realising how thirsty he had been.

[B]"Sir, we've got the match. The computer's just uploading the profile now," [/B]said Andrews, clicking a few keys on the console.

At that moment, a great quake ran through the ship, rocking it from side to side, as something hit the side. Kreid almost lost his balance, as did Franklin, but they both managed to regain theirs, while Andrews hit the floor hard. The lights shut off, and a dim red light lit up the security office.

[B]"Kreid!" [/B]shouted Franklin over the noise and the hysteria of the rest of the crew, [B]"Save the information on that computer! We need to keep it from shutting down!"

[/B]Kreid staggered over to the computer, only to be confronted by his own crew profile staring back at him from the screen. He grabbed hold of the console and jabbed at a few keys, trying to feign the act of saving the file while he actually attempted to delete it.

It was at this moment that the ship righted itself, stopped shaking, and the lights went on, replacing the strange red light that had filled the security office.

[B]"Never mind, Kreid, get out of the way," [/B]said Franklin gruffly, moving over to the console. Kreid was about to hit the key to delete the file, but Franklin stopped him just as his finger was a millimetre above the key.

[B]"Kreid," [/B]he said coldly, [B]"It's you. It's been you all along, hasn't it?" [/B]The Head of Security had seen the file that had appeared on screen, and now his face was cold, emotionless.

[B]"That's how you've been the top security member since the start. You're a Versilan spy!" [/B]He grabbed Kreid by the lapels and slammed him against the consoles at the side of the room, [B]"You are a traitor!"

[/B]Kreid's nerves suddenly gave way to cold indifference, and he laughed at Franklin.

[B]"You are the traitor, Franklin," [/B]he said, [B]"You and all the other stinking Resistance rats on board this ship. You don't realise, do you, that you don't stand a chance against the full might of the Versilan Empire? I've been taking your operation apart from the day I set foot on this ship."

"You...are under arrest. You will be taken to the brig and kept there until such time as we can arrange a fair trial for you. But don't hold your breath, son. You're going to be in there a long, long time."

"I doubt it," [/B]said Kreid with a smile, grabbing Franklin's wrists and bending them backwards until he grunted with pain and let go of Kreid's lapels. Then he grabbed Franklin by the arm, twisted it behind his back and slammed him headfirst into a console. The sparks flew out in all directions, arcing across the room, and Franklin's body convulsed as the power ran through it. Finally, the power ran out, and Franklin's body fell still. Kreid let go, and the body dropped limply to the floor.

[B]"Stand still," [/B]came a small voice from behind Kreid, and he whirled round to see Andrews aiming a pistol at him, shaking in his boots.

[B]"Why? Are you going to shoot me?" [/B]said Kreid, moving towards Andrews slowly, [B]"I bet you've never pointed a gun at anyone in your life, have you?" [/B]He stepped over to Andrews, ripped the gun from his hand and snapped his neck with a single fluid motion of his arm. The body fell to the floor, and Kreid smiled.

His work here was all but done...
[/SIZE]

[Rachmaninoff]

Kerstin didn?t know how long she had been out when she finally started to come too. For the longest time she couldn?t seem to shake the groggy feeling or even open her eyes to see where she was. She could tell that she was lying on something and that something was covering everything but her face, but that was it. As the feeling slowly returned to her body she started to open her eyes but other than a glance at the built in lighting in the ceiling she saw nothing else. Kerstin started to move and then hastily closed her eyes and stayed still when the hiss of an automatic door opening sounded. She unconsciously tensed at the sound of two people approaching and nearly jumped out of sheer surprise when they started talking in low tones.

?[B]So we?re suppose to put her in the quarters prepped for her until the ship arrives?[/B]? One of them, a man asked.

?[B]Guess so, don?t know why the boss even cares. We should have taken care of her like we did with the other Imperial scum.[/B]? The second one said coldly.

[I]Timothy[/I]? Kerstin cringed, wondering if he was even still alive.

?[B]I heard that the order came straight from Williams. Though why he?d care what happens to her is beyond me. Anyway, why are we waiting? It?s not like she needs to be awake for us to simply move her.[/B]? The first one said. ?[B]Besides, I?m more interested in checking out the report for sector three. I just bet they?re pissed that it won?t be possible to reattach the sections to the ship yards there.[/B]?

The second one laughed snidely, ?[B]Oh it gets better. The word out is that sector?s three and four are on the verge of breaking off and joining the New Alliance.[/B]?

The door opened again and a third voice spoke up. ?[B]What are you two waiting for? There?s no need to wait since Miss Anderson is already awake.[/B]?

Kerstin tensed again and then opened her eyes as she turned her head to look at who had spoken. To her surprise she was in a private room in what appeared to be a medical center. There were three people in the room, two of them wearing the uniform of the local police force for sector eight and the third, the one standing just inside the door to the room was obviously a doctor or at the very least he was wearing the uniform of one.

It was with trepidation that Kerstin pushed the blanket down and swung her legs over the side, moving into a sitting position. She wanted to say something but couldn?t bring herself to do so. For one thing it was obvious that they knew who she was and she knew all to well that what she had been doing meant she couldn?t rely on being a civilian for fair treatment. Even if Fleet Admiral Stevens had made it clear that she had no choice, it would make no difference and she knew it.

Kerstin looked at each of them in turn before simply looking down at her hands that she had clasped together in her lap. Concentrating on suppressing the urge to shake as she remembered just how horrible it had been when she had been kidnapped by Blaine. Even though it was clear they were with the official law, it couldn?t stop the reaction since she knew full well they?d be within their rights to interrogate her. She looked back up at the sound of the one who was a doctor sighing and shooting the two members of the police an irritated glance.

?[B]What have you idiots been saying?[/B]? He walked over until he was closer to Kerstin. ?[B]Nothing is going to happen to you Miss Anderson. I don?t know what propaganda the High Council is spreading, but the New Alliance is adapting the policy that the Resistance has always held. No form of torture will ever be used in an interrogation. I can?t rule out the use of truth drugs, but no one is going to harm you.[/B]?

?[B]I see. So what's going to happen then?[/B]? Kerstin finally asked.

?[B]You?re being transferred to another sector. Until the ship arrives to pick you up you?re being moved to a more secure room. You?ll find a selection of clothing for you to change into waiting there for you.[/B]? He motioned to the two police who came over. ?[B]Now before we move you, is there anything I need to know about? The scans indicate that other than some bruises and blisters on your feet you should be fine.[/B]?

Kerstin carefully stood up, noticing how the doctor must have already treated the soles of her feet since other than a tiny bit of soreness they were fine. ?[B]I?m fine. Thank you doctor.[/B]? She said politely.

?[B]All right, Lets get going then.[/B]? The first of the police force motioned for her to follow him. Something that Kerstin did without objection.

If Kerstin had been hoping to get a glimpse as to where she was, she was disappointed as the hallway outside the room was not only deserted, but there were no windows letting her see if she was still in the city. The featureless white walls only served to make her feel isolated as she didn?t even know if it was day or night. And after traveling down several corridors with one of the police in front to lead the way and the other following along just behind her she still had no clue as to where she was.

But then a moment later as they headed through a set of double doors that opened automatically upon their approach, she realized that they were putting her in an isolation ward. A suspicion that was confirmed as they approached the first door and opened it up. It was similar to a cell with the only difference being that it was a nicer room since isolation rooms were used for medical purposes.

Kerstin didn?t say a word but merely entered when ordered, ignoring the sound of the door closing behind her as she surveyed her new location. A bed, a small desk and a computer terminal that she was certain was most likely offline. True to the doctor?s word several sets of clothing were sitting on the bed. She looked down at the dirty tattered remains of the dress she was wearing. After all that had happened, it was a wonder that she was still covered.

[I]I might not get another chance to change into something more decent,[/I] she thought as she grabbed the simple grey pants and shirt along with the other simple underwear to go along with it. Kerstin took them with her into the small wash room attached to the main room and closed the door behind her.

[Horendithas]

[COLOR="Indigo"][SIZE="1"]Jared didn?t bother to stick around to inform Drace of Sandra?s decision. It would be more fun for him to find out when he arrived to realize that Jared was not in his quarters. Checking the updates would direct him to Sandra who would in turn break it to him that he would not be assuming temporary control of the [I]Creator[/I]. It was a thought that just made Jared smile since he did not care for Drace?s overly ruthless approach to things or rather what he perceived as an inability to control his reactions towards others.

He could have waited until the next day to start the interrogation of Commander Chevast, sticking to standard procedure and starting first thing in the morning, but Chevast was a sticker for following the rules and starting him off at the wrong time would disrupt that mindset. Jared had told Crystal that he would be done before they arrived in sector eight and he meant it. Breaking someone as rigid and inflexible as Chevast would be simple. The only thing out of character that he had ever done was to back the New Alliance.

Jared arrived at the interrogation chamber before the security bringing Chevast did, normally he would get the equipment ready but this time he simply opened up the panel at the terminal, set his hand held and other items inside and shut it, effectively locking everything inside until he was ready to leave. Then he sat down and put his feet up to wait for the security to arrive. Smiling a bit to himself as he waited, wondering if he would get the reaction he was expecting and then smiling even more broadly when the doors opened and the security arrived with Chevast in tow with a look of barely concealed panic as well as confusion on his face.

?[B]Leave us.[/B]? Jared commanded the security, having already given them instructions to not bind the Commander or to secure him to the chair in the center of the room.

With a small bow the group turned and left, leaving Chevast standing there, wondering just what Jared had in mind. He did not attempt to turn and leave as the sound of the doors locking once the security had left was all too clear. Nor did he try to move or say anything as he watched Jared warily, waiting for him to speak. But as the time went by and Jared simply smirked at him and said nothing as he sat there with his feet up, Chevast finally snapped at him.

?[B]If all you?re going to do is sit there and look like an idiot then what the hell am I doing here?[/B]?

Jared laughed and stood up in a single fluid motion, noting how Chevast took a small step back without thinking about it, clenching his hands into fists as he tensed up and braced himself.

?[B]It?s simple Commander, I?ve decided to give you a chance to earn a quick and painless execution instead of a long, painful and drawn out interrogation.[/B]?

Chevast spat in his direction. ?[B]You lie.[/B]?

?[B]I do?[/B]? Jared held his hands out to the side a bit, palms facing towards Chevast. ?[B]And here I thought you were smart enough to realize that I never lie about something like that. If you earn it, you?ll get it.[/B]?

?[B]No one has ever earned one of your [I]so called[/I] painless executions.[/B]?

?[B]You are correct,[/B]? Jared let his hands fall back to his sides. ?[B]Not one of them had the skills or the ability to do so. All of them were lacking, incapable of a simple feat.[/B]?

This time Chevast said nothing, standing rigidly in place as he watched Jared approach until they were less than ten feet apart.

Jared sighed dramatically, ?[B]It?s really simple Commander, all you have to do is manage to defeat me in unarmed combat, right here right now. Should you manage to do so, the security will, per my instructions, take you down with a disruptor blast set to kill.[/B]?

?[B]I still don?t believe you.[/B]?

?[B]Or you?re too afraid to find out that the rumors that I got my rank by sleeping with Fleet Admiral Stevens is far from accurate. Stop being such a coward, prove to yourself and everyone else that I really am incompetent. You?ll never get another chance to take a shot at me.[/B]? Jared held his hands out and away from his body as if inviting Chevast to attack. But when he did nothing Jared just sighed.

?[B]Such a pity, in that case we?ll get straight to the main event.[/B]? He turned as if going over to turn on the equipment and then smiled when movement out of the corner of his eye told him that Chevast had finally made his move.

But Jared had been expecting it and simply sidestepped his lunge, and then moved back at the same time, catching him from behind with a powerful blow to the back of his head that sent the Commander to his knees, stunned. Swiftly he knocked him face down, pinning him in place by grabbing his right arm and twisting it up behind his back. Jared held his other arm down as he placed his knee into the Commander?s back as he leaned over to whisper in his ear.

?[B]Pity, it seems that like the others, you too are far from worthy.[/B]? Jared got up, pulling Chevast up with him, not giving him the chance to pull free as he maneuvered him into the chair and strapped him in. By the time Chevast had fully recovered from being stunned, Jared was already sitting behind the terminal for controlling the disruptors, entering the codes to bring the equipment online. He looked up to see Chevast watching him.

?[B]Well, now that you?ve proven to be far from [I]honorable[/I], it?s time to get started.[/B]? He smiled at how Chevast winced over the word honorable, after all attacking from behind like he had was considered the act of a coward. With a smirk, Jared activated the disruptors, watching as Chevast struggled to keep from crying out in pain as the powerful energy ran through the chair and into his body. [/SIZE][/COLOR]

[Shy]

[size=1][indent]That night, Mikhail, Bright Eyes and Colin entered the doctor’s spacious livings quarters on the outskirts of Gallana. Colin had never been anywhere so luxurious before: on most occasions he and Bright Eyes were lucky just to share a mattress, but in the well-furnished office complex it seemed like that wouldn’t be a problem. Nearly a dozen large beds lined the walls, and everything was perfectly cleaned and sanitized. The laughter of children could be heard echoing from a hallway near the back, and a pale older woman greeted the trio.

“[b]Dr. Phantaxian, there‘s been a complication from last night‘s procedure--[/b]” The woman said with a cold, almost mechanical tone of voice. She had faded blonde hair held behind her in a bun, and wore a spotless white suit. Her expression remained unchanged as her eyes veered towards Colin and Bright Eyes. “[b]It would seem you’ve brought another child.[/b]”

“[b]Yes,[/b]” Mikhail replied as he locked the door behind him, “[b]This is Colin and his pet Bright Eyes. I found them in the city, and offered them our help.[/b]”

“[b]Of course. I‘ll prepare a change of clothes and a bed for the boy, but you are needed in the lab, doctor.[/b]”

Mikhail motioned towards the woman, “[b]Colin, this is Nurse Sola. She’ll be watching over you and the other children in case you should need anything.[/b]”

“[b]Thank you for taking us in, Nurse Solo.[/b]” Colin said with a warm smile.

The woman’s voice became strained, “[b]This matter needs your attention right away.[/b]”

“[b]I’m sure it can wait. Please, get Colin’s things ready for him while I scrub in.[/b]”

Nurse Sola merely nodded, and walked towards a nearby locker containing clothes and bed linens.

“[b]Don’t mind her, Colin. She can be a bit… tough at times, but she does a very good job of keeping an eye on each and every one of you when I can’t be around.[/b]”

“[b]Oh, okay. What was she talking about?[/b]“

“[b]It’s nothing for you to worry about. Some of our children here are very, very sick. While I do as much as I can, it’s not always enough to repair the damage they have received over the years.[/b]”

Mikhail patted Colin on the back, “[b]If you’d like to go in the recreation area I’m sure there will be some food for you and Bright Eyes. You both must be very hungry from your long day.[/b]”

“[b]Hungry? I’m starving![/b]”

“[b]There are plenty of treats in there,[/b]” he said as he headed towards a set of double doors. He placed his hand on the door and after scanning his biometrics it unlocked, “[b]I’ll be back shortly to check up on you…[/b]”

Nurse Sola quietly placed a change of clothes and bedding on one of the beds, and followed closely behind Dr. Phantaxian. After changing into his new outfit, Colin and Bright Eyes headed down the long hallway towards the recreation area. It was another enormous space, even larger than the one they were in, and filled with children of his own age laughing and playing various games. They were all dressed in the same white uniform that Colin was, and seemed to be enjoying themselves greatly.

"[b]Wow![/b]"

A table containing fruits and sandwiches sat against the edge of the room, and he immediately rushed towards for it. The children seemed to be having so much fun that few of them noticed the boy and his dog enter.

“[b]This stuff looks really good, Bright Eyes![/b]” Colin said as he began feeding his dog some of the sandwich meat, “[b]Just look at all of this stuff![/b]”

A young girl, no older than Colin, approached him with a smile on her face. She had light skin and kept her mahogany-colored hair on both sides of her face in pigtails.

“[b]Is that your dog?[/b]” She asked excitedly, “[b]Can I pet it?[/b]”

Colin nodded as he took a bite of an apple, “[b]Sure. Her name’s Bright Eyes. She‘s my best friend.[/b]”

The girl laughed as Bright Eyes wagged its’ tail, “[b]I used to have a dog, too, before I got sent here.[/b]”

“[b]What do you mean?[/b]”

“[b]We were very poor, and my brother was sick, so Mikhail said we could both live with him. My Mom didn’t have a lot of money, so she sent us with him so that he could take care of us.[/b]”

“[b]Oh,[/b]” Colin replied as he looked around the room, “[b]Which one is your brother?[/b]”

She shook her head sadly, “[b]He’s not around anymore. He got too sick, and then he died.[/b]”

“[b]I’m sorry.[/b]”

“[b]It’s okay, that was a long time ago. Mikhail says that he’s going to try and find me a new family someday, so maybe I‘ll get a new brother.[/b]”

Colin extended his hand towards the girl, “[b]My name is Colin.[/b]”

“[b]I’m Tandy,[/b]” she said, “[b]Let me show you all of the games we play here. It‘s a lot of fun if you don‘t get into any trouble.[/b]”

“[b]What happens if you get into trouble?[/b]”

There was an uncomfortable moment of silence as Tandy’s demeanor suddenly changed. Her eyes narrowed as she leaned in closer to Colin, “[b]If you’re bad Nurse Sola will take you away, and you’ll never come back.[/b]”

Colin nearly choked on his apple as Tandy spoke. Maybe coming with Mikhail wasn’t such a good idea after all.[/size][/indent]

[SunfallE]

[COLOR="RoyalBlue"][FONT="Lucida Sans Unicode"]Jason could tell that Celestia was depressed and fighting to shake it off as she did her best to catch up for the work she had struggled to do the week prior to the invasion of sector seven. Even though it had only been a few days since they had been dressed down by Sub-Commander Drace, it felt like an eternity. And part of him kept expecting stricter punishment, for someone to show up and take them away to be disciplined, after all they had been [I]corrected[/I] for less than that in the past. Not that he was going to point that out to anyone. Nor was he going to say anything about why the woman with Drace puzzled him a bit, or rather that she reminded him of Crystal for some reason, though he didn?t know why.

Shaking his head Jason focused on finishing up what they had for the day, the revised program for the update system was almost done and though they wouldn?t have time to get it finished that day he was certain they would have it done before they arrived in sector eight. He was wondering what they would be assigned to do next when Celestia?s sharp intake of breath caught his attention, causing him to turn to her to see just what was wrong. Though there were plenty of things that could be responsible. The rumors were certainly circulating around the [I]Creator[/I], from one about Jared conducting an interrogation to the more startling one of Sub-Commander Drace being in disfavor with Commodore Sandra Luciana. And the last thing Jason wanted to do was run into the Sub-Commander if he really was angry.

?[B]What is it Celestia?[/B]? He asked her softly as he prepared to shut down his terminal for the day.

?[B]I?ll tell you when we get back to our quarters.[/B]? She replied, refusing to look at him, making Jason wonder just what in the world was so startling that she wouldn?t talk about it in the computer lab.

But then considering that Kenath had been disappointed that they had not been strongly disciplined, something he had commented on, snidely stating how if not for the High Council the two of them would have been dealt with in a more appropriate manner. Jason was not surprised that she was refusing to say anything. If anything, since their encounter with Drace she had been far more guarded and quiet and though she might cry from frustration in their quarters, she was deathly silent during the day. It was a development that was both good and bad. Good because getting upset only resulted in them getting in trouble, and bad since it bothered Jason immensely that they were required to behave. Though that was nothing new and as always for a brief moment he wondered how any slave managed to continue working without going insane.

Celestia finished up what she was doing and then took herself and Jason back to their quarters, carefully holding in what she had just discovered by sheer accident. It was late enough that she could get away with saying nothing to Kenath since he was already gone for the night and she could rightfully claim that she wanted to verify what she had discovered before saying anything to him. But more importantly she wanted to talk to Jason about it and have him verify it as well, though she doubted that she was mistaken. Though she wished that she was since it presented a horrible dilemma, one that she wished she had never discovered.

?[B]Alright,[/B]? Jason said once the door to their quarters closed and locked behind them. ?[B]Just what was so important that you couldn?t speak openly about it in the computer lab?[/B]?

Celestia turned to face him, ?[B]There?s an exploit in the main computer system, a way to bypass the security for just about anything.[/B]? She rocked a bit when Jason grabbed her shoulders.

?[B]Are you sure about that?[/B]?

Celestia nodded. ?[B]I spent the last hour confirming it. Jason, I tested it and it let me into anything I wanted to access. I?d have to look further into it, but it?s possible that it was set up by someone working for the Resistance.[/B]?

?[B]Damn![/B]? Jason swore as he let go of her shoulders. ?[B]No wonder you didn?t say anything in the lab! Hell![/B]? He started to pace and then stopped himself. ?[B]Would anyone be able to tell that you discovered it?[/B]?

Celestia shook her head, ?[B]I don?t know, considering how messed up the program for the update system was it?s likely that no one knows about it. And it?s designed to erase any traces of the system being accessed, even at the higher levels.[/B]? She looked at him with a worried expression.

?[B]What should we do? If there is currently a Resistance agent on board, if I reveal it to Kenath I will have no choice but to alter it to trace whoever is using it.?[/B] Celestia sat down on the sofa in their quarters, leaning over and placing her head in her hands.

?[B]I don?t know if I can do that Jason, willingly track down someone who works for the Resistance.?[/B] She said with a tremor in her voice, causing Jason to come over and sit down next to her, placing his arm around her in a comforting manner.

?[B]Then don?t.[/B]? He said, pulling her close as she started to object, hugging her tightly. ?[B]Just leave it alone.[/B]?

?[B]But?[/B]?

?[B]If it?s brought up, I?ll take care of tracking down who set it up or whoever is using it.[/B]? He sighed a bit. "[B]It's not like I couldn't do it after all.[/B]"

Celestia pushed Jason away, ?[B]But you can?t do that! You know what will happen if they?re caught![/B]?

Jason smiled sadly. ?[B]I know what will happen if I don?t.?[/B]

Celestia choked and then threw herself into his arms and cried. ?[B]It?s not fair! It?s bad enough that we have to help them win this war so they can keep us enslaved, but to actually?[/B]?

Jason held her tightly. ?[B]Don?t worry over it, besides, it?s possible that no one else will even realize that it?s there so it may never be brought up.[/B]? He gently pushed her back just enough to kiss her on the forehead. ?[B]Just let me deal with it should someone notice it okay?[/B]? He waited for her to nod and then just held her for a while. [/FONT][/COLOR]

[GuyYouMetOnline]

[COLOR=darkslateblue]The facility on Mars had been evecuated and destroyed. Kiva had proceeded outward at maximum speed, leaving the sector well before the Imperial fleet arrived. The [I]Catalyst[/I] was currently in transit to sector 14. Kiva's plan for surveying the sector was similar to what she'd done at sector 13. She'd exit hyperspace well outside of sensor range, deploy drones, and retrieve them once they'd passed through the sector.[/COLOR]

[COLOR=#483d8b]Kiva leaned back in her chair. Exploiting her relationship with Dalek had been painful. She knew it was the only reason she'd taken Dalek and the two High Councilors alive, but that didn't make her feel any better about doing it. She'd essentially ensured that Dalek would hate her for the rest of his life. She knew it had been necessary, so she'd done it, but she hated that necessity.[/COLOR]
[COLOR=#483d8b]Kiva had made up her mind to speak to Dalek at some point after her arrival in sector 11. She knew it would be painful, but she was still going to do it. But she didn't want to think about it until then, so she focused on her work, plotting paths for the drones and calculating optimal placement as she'd done prior to her survey of sector 13. She'd deal with Dalek in sector 11; until then, he didn't matter.[/COLOR]

[Aaryanna_Mom]

The moment the fleet exited from hyperspace, Daniel knew they had a problem. There was no mistaking who was in charge of the Imperial fleet, only one man was known for using the tactic he was seeing. Usually it was standard procedure for the battleships to exit first, closely followed by the flagship if one was currently present. The ships were too damn expensive to make and maintain to risk putting them in the main line of fire. But instead the flagship exited first with the battleships right behind it. The placement and timing was perfect for the drones to attack the battleships but the flagship? It was out of the zone and in position to make a run for the [I]Liberator[/I].

“[B]Damn.[/B]” Landers swore softly as he watched the battleships attempt to scramble and avoid the trap they had prepared.

“[B]Sir![/B]”

“[B]I know.[/B]” Daniel sighed. “[B]It’s the [I]Crescent[/I]. Hail them.[/B]”

“[B]How did you know?[/B]” Spencer asked, but Daniel did not answer as the [I]Crescent[/I] opened fire, hitting the [I]Liberator[/I] hard, causing the ship to rock violently as the Commodore of the ship took immediate advantage of the area’s in their shielding that had not been fully repaired yet. The crew shifted power to the port side but not before the ship took several direct hits.

Daniel held on to the armrests of his chair as the internal gravity systems cut out just long enough for people to be tossed about. The lights flickered briefly and then stabilized as the screen showing the bridge of the [I]Crescent[/I] came to life. The Commodore a tall older Versilan with dark brown hair that was starting to turn gray at his temples stood up upon seeing Daniel.

“[B]It’s been a long time Brian,[/B]” Daniel commented. “[B]I see you’re still as reckless as ever.[/B]” He ignored the tremors running though the [I]Liberator [/I]as the [I]Crescent [/I]continued to press the attack, attempting to disable the ship instead of outright destroying it.

“[B]And you are still a disappointment Daniel, I thought I taught you better than to throw your career away like that.[/B]”

Daniel laughed. “[B]And I see that like any other dog on the High Council’s leash, you still blindly believe everything you’ve been told. Otherwise, you would know that the only one who threw my career away was none other than the High Council themselves.[/B]” Daniel shook his head, ignoring the continued fire directed towards the [I]Liberator[/I], in just a few minutes they would be gone anyway, all he had to do was keep them from following. And though it would require taking a beating, he knew just how to achieve that.

“[B]Why should I believe anything you tell me? Your father was a traitor, you are a traitor, your mother…[/B]”

“[B]Wrong.[/B]” Daniel interrupted coldly. “[B]The only one who was a member of the Resistance was Nathan. If your ability to determine the truth has atrophied that much since you took the position of Commodore then there is nothing I can do to make you see otherwise.[/B]”

“[B]Then prove it, stop your ship and we’ll discuss it, one Commander to another.[/B]”

“[B]Don’t you mean stop since you have orders to take me alive?[/B]” Daniel stood up. “[B]Please tell me that you can do better than that.[/B]” He laughed at Brian and then smiled at the hint of irritation in his gaze.

“[B]You assume to much,[/B]” Brian countered. “[B]Perhaps I’m simply giving you the chance to live instead of destroying you and everyone on board. After all, even if you make the jump to hyperspace, my information indicates that you’re operating at a fifteen percent power drop. You can’t get away.[/B]”

“[B]Only if you manage to stop us before we get back to New Alliance territory. Provided you can actually pull us out of hyperspace. Please, stop with the melodramatic nonsense unless you’d like me to quote your orders for you?[/B]” Daniel started walking back and forth as if remembering them, speaking up when Brian did not respond.

“[B]Ah yes, I believe it went something along the lines of capturing me alive in order to learn more about Williams the new head of the Resistance and Co-Leader of the New Alliance. Just as it included a bit about using me as a bargaining chip to ensure the cooperation of not only my daughter Celestia but son-in-law Jason as well.[/B]” He stopped and gazed directly at Brian.

“[B]Just as I know your orders even include doing everything in your power to protect me as well. Why else would you be using less than fifty percent of what you are truly capable of? Why else has your agent failed to assassinate me when such a task should have been simple?[/B]” Daniel looked away. “[B]You won’t follow us and risk destroying the[I] Liberator[/I] when the current level of damage to our ship indicates a thirty percent chance of doing so if you try to force us out of hyperspace.[/B]”

Daniel laughed at Brian’s look of irritation. “[B]Surely you didn’t think I delayed jumping to hyperspace and talked to you just for old times sake did you?[/B]” He bowed mockingly. “[B]Thank you for the additional damage you’ve done as well as ensuring that in order to comply with your orders you can’t do a damn thing. Goodbye Brian. Next time do some research instead of following along like a good little dog.[/B]”

He gave the order and a few seconds later, the transmission had been cut and the ship had jumped to hyperspace. With a sigh of relief Daniel sat back down and then relaxed a little more when it was clear that the [I]Crescent [/I]was not following them.

“[B]All right Spencer, start assessing the damage and seeing to the wounded.”[/B]

“[B]Yes sir.[/B]”

Daniel started going through the reports, sighing inwardly upon seeing that there had been causalities when the ship had taken direct hits. Even more so when one of the first names came up, making him feel old. Franklin, the head of security, was on the list. [I]I need to find a temporary replacement,[/I] but his first thought, Kreid was listed as being in the infirmary. He took a quick look at the notes from the doctor… minor electrical burns. Burns that had been most likely obtained when Franklin had been killed by what seemed to be a short in the system when the ship had taken the direct hits. Or so the doctors notes indicated.

Daniel just sighed yet again as he contacted the infirmary to speak to the doctor there, unless his injuries were serious, he needed Kreid to take over until the arrived in sector eleven and could find a permanent replacement for the head of security for the [I]Liberator[/I]. While he waited for the doctor to reply he started looking through the list of the missing, those who they had been forced to leave behind. The list was far longer than he would have liked, and he couldn’t help but notice how some of them, like Marc Nazarian, were from Earth in the first place.

[Aaryanna]

[COLOR="goldenrod"][FONT="Comic Sans MS"]Crystal had heard next to nothing about Sub-Commander Drace's response to Sandra's decision in regards to who was overseeing the [I]Creator[/I]. They were almost to the border of sector eight and already the rumors were dying down other than the one that Chevast had already broken under interrogation. Something that she was certain was true since in the past she had assisted Jared with the correct dosage of the powerful truth inducing and pain blocking drugs. His boast that he would be done before they got to sector eight was based on experience instead of an attempt to look competent.

It was a mistake people made about Jared, even though he had risen quite far in the ranks, they always assumed that he obtained favor another way. But then Crystal also knew Stevens personally as well and he too was far more intelligent than people gave him credit for. Stevens would never promote someone based on sexual favors. Sometimes, that intelligence was what annoyed her so much since that flippant and seemingly uncaring attitude that both Stevens and Jared presented, just irritated her more serious nature to no end at times. Crystal did not joke around, she preferred being direct instead of relying on the politics of one's position to obtain what they wished.

At the moment though, there was a duty that she disliked even more than dealing with people who enjoyed the politics behind power and one's position, and that was treating Erica Kendrick, former High Council member and Resistance leader. Stevens still did not trust anyone other than her to see to her care and as a result, Erica was still on board the [I]Creator[/I]. She had since been moved to a special room in the infirmary since her disease had progressed to the next level and proper care was no longer possible without retrofitting one of the cells on the ship.

In her condition, Erica could no more move far enough to get out of the infirmary let alone the ship and having the next room altered with the equipment to prevent transport doors or other means of contacting Erica had been far easier to do than retrofitting a cell would have been. Plus the door was sealed and would only open for her, Stevens, Sandra and Jared. No other crew member had access since even her meals were handled by Crystal. It didn't seem to stop Erica from knowing what was going on though, something she reminded her of yet again as she scanned her for her twice daily treatment.

"[B]You know Crystal, even with the mess of retaking sector seven and your newest Sub-Commander's mistakes or should I say irritating personality since I know all about Drace.[/B]" Erica said from her position of lying down on the bed in the room. "[B]You really should be careful around that one.[/b]" She advised, ignoring Crystal's look of irritation.

"[b]Anyway, I was hoping that even if you and I could never get along, that you would at least smile once.[/B]"

Crystal didn't bother to hide the sigh. "[B]And I would have hoped that by now you would have realized that I have nothing to say to you let along smile for any reason. Our friendship was nothing more than a lie Erica, and nothing you say will ever change that.[/B]" She closed the scanner and then started preparing the treatment based on the scans.

"[B]You used me Erica to help you in your quest to promote the goals of the Resistance.[/B]"

"[B]No, our goals though different in some respects, were still based on improved living conditions for the slaves. The only true difference was that I wished to take that one step further, to end the pointless slavery.[/B]"

Crystal shook her head as she administered the shots. "[B]Why do you keep bringing this up? You already know I have no interest in talking to you and yet you still keep insisting on making a claim to a friendship that never existed as you think it did.[/B]"

Erica reached out and grasped Crystal's tunic. "[B]It's the foolish dream of a dying woman, to wish for only one to at least pretend to understand and forgive her for the things she has done.[/B]"

"[B]But you're not sorry for what you did![/B]" Crystal exclaimed. "[B]If you actually felt bad for the conflict the Resistance has caused, for the time you gave the order for them to hold me against my will, then I just might consider it.[/B]" She glared at Erica who simply let go of her tunic.

"[B]See? That's my point! You see your actions as necessary and my actions to bring about change without attempting to force it as the same when they are anything but the same![/B]" Crystal pulled back and hastily stuffed her things into the small case she had brought with her.

"[B]You misunderstand Crystal.[/B]" Erica smiled sadly, "[B]I don't expect you to change your views, only for you to at least understand why I chose to do what I did. Even if it's a pretense, from you that is more than enough.[/B]" She looked away.

"[B]I have one other thing to say,[/B]" She said just as Crystal got to the door. "[B]Tell that fool Stevens that I need to talk to him.[/B]"

Crystal just clutched her things tightly and left the room without answering. The last time Erica had something to tell Stevens, had been when the information she gave him led to Civil War. As the door closed behind her, Crystal toyed with the idea of saying nothing, but in the end she knew she would. Though she wondered what new chaos Erica was going to cause. [/FONT][/COLOR]

[Horendithas]

[COLOR="Indigo"][SIZE="1"]Not far from the border between sector seven and eight, the fleet had dropped out of hyperspace. Waiting patiently in space as orders were given and updates were received in regards to the next phase of recovering the lost sectors. In particular, Sandra Tessa Luciana, was far from amused over some of the recent developments and decisions that had been made. As a Commodore, she understood the necessity of what she was about to do, but personally, she did not agree with who had been selected to carry out her orders. As if to remind her of that task, the chime indicating someone was at her door sounded and she turned to issue the command for those who were there to enter.

Vallon Drace was wearing a guarded and almost expressionless look, similar to his assistant Pheonia who was demurely following behind him. Crystal Matheson however, was making no attempt to hide her obvious distaste for Vallon Drace. [I]Crystal is not going to like this.[/I] Sandra thought as she moved over to face the trio; stopping at the top of the few steps leading from the main area up to where her office and desk close to the expansive view of space was located. Leaving her in the position of looking down on the three from where she was standing.

?[b]I?m sure you must be wondering why I?ve called the three of you here as well as why we have stopped here at the border instead of proceeding around the Tarak asteroid fields.[/b]? Sandra studied each one of them, noting how Drace almost looked bored while Pheonia merely kept her eyes on Sandra following everything she said. She did not bother to look at Crystal since she was certain her irritation had not faded.

?[b]It?s simple, I intend to send the three of you ahead of the fleet by virtue of the known smuggler?s route through the Tarak.[/b]? Sandra paused, waiting for the outburst and then smiled when it came since she had not missed the small grunt of annoyance from Crystal.

?[b]You must be joking![/b]? Crystal objected.

?[b]Elania Ceris.[/b]? Sandra stated simply.

?[b]What could she possibly have to do with this? I thought she was picked up by Jared?s forces when they took over the plant production. I mean, I?ve been studying her notes on genetics ever since it was forwarded to my department.[/b]? Crystal fell silent, obviously puzzled as to what Sandra was getting at.

?[b]You are correct, she along with her assistant Victor Rollins were both captured and are currently onboard the [i]Creator[/I]. However, I need a team to get into the main capitol of the home world in sector eight and slipping in as if escaping the recent take over is the perfect cover.[/b]? Sandra reached into her pocket and pulled out three data chips, tossing one to each of them.

?[b]Recently we inserted an agent into top secret missions being held in sector eight in an attempt to identify previously unknown Resistance leaders, however, other than two people, everyone on that team was eliminated.[/b]? Sandra waited for a moment to let them read what was on the chips.

?[b]Surely there are others better suited to this task.[/b]? Drace finally commented when he looked up after reading the data.

?[b]How do you figure that? No one other than Commander Matheson is even capable of understanding Ceris?s work well enough to pass as her. Also, though the resemblance isn?t as strong as we would like, there is no other officer here better suited to pose as her assistant.[/b]?

?[b]Now just a minute here![/b]? Crystal glared at Sandra. ?[b]I will not have [I]him[/I],[/b]? she pointed at Drace, ?[b]Posing as Elania?s assistant! Even I know that the two of them are lovers! There?s no way in hell I would ever agree to that![/b]?

?[b]So what if they are? Other than in public, behind closed doors you are not required to do anything other than to focus on the mission at hand.[/b]? Sandra raised her hand to cut off further protests from Crystal.

?[b]You both have been given your orders, each of you have specific missions to carry out. Because you will be going through the smugglers route you will arrive three days before the fleet does, more than enough time to carry out your assigned mission. Pheonia will be coming along posing as your pilot since you?ll be using a freighter. She should be invaluable with her piloting and computer skills. Everything else is on the chips I gave both of you. Once you?ve committed it to memory I suggest that you destroy it.[/b]?

?[b]But?[/b]? Crystal started to say.

?[b]No buts Commander! Arrangements have been made to take care of your duties as well as yours Drace,[/b]? Sandra looked at him directly. ?[b]You are in charge of this mission Sub-Commander, the full details are on that chip. I expect you to follow them to the letter. Now, all of you are dismissed, you have less than an hour to get ready and leave.[/b]?

Drace looked less than thrilled but offered the bow due to her position and left with Phoenia in tow but Crystal? She glared at Sandra for a moment and then with a snarl of irritation she too finally turned and stalked out of Sandra?s quarters. [/SIZE][/COLOR]

[Aaryanna]

[COLOR="goldenrod"][FONT="Comic Sans MS"]Crystal made no attempt to hide how furious she was over her new assignment from Commodore Luciana. She was oblivious to the startled looks from various members of the crew who had never seen her get upset over anything, she was too busy reading through the notes given to her by Sandra as to what was entailed or rather involved in the mission in question. Other than to make a quick note of the time to ensure that she would be at the hanger in question within an hour, she paid no attention to anything else as she approached her quarters and entering after putting in the code at the lock.

Once the door closed behind her though, it was all she could do to not toss her hand held computer into the nearest wall. Her furniture was not safe as she savagely kicked a few things on her way to where her desk was located, cursing under her breath as she turned the terminal on and pulled up the files on Elania Ceris. As well as contacting the infirmary since she would not have time to go there in person.

"[B]Commander,[/B]" Her assistant's answered her call. "[B]Commodore Luciana informed me that you will be assigned elsewhere for the time being. Is there anything you needed?[/B]"

"[B]No.[/B]" Crystal said through clenched teeth. "[B]I was only making sure that you had been informed of my departure since I will not have time to stop by the infirmary before I am required to leave.[/B]"

[B]"Understood ma'am.[/B]"

"[B]I'll be back as soon as I can.[/B]" She ended the communication by virtue of pounding on the input panel with a snarl, even as she set her hand held computer in a compartment for safe keeping.

There was no way she could bring her own along with her. Someone like Elania Ceris would not have a military grade computer nor the military grade security programs that she did. Instead she would have to quickly transfer Elania's notes to a simple hand held computer that was more common among researchers like her. But for the moment, she simply transfered the data onto several chips. She could snag a simple hand held computer from supply on her way to the hangar bay.

Once the data had been transfered, Crystal shot off a request to supply to have a computer waiting for her so she could simply pick it up. She was not surprised to see that her need had already been anticipated when they immediately shot back that one was already there for her. With a sigh she set the chips down and hurried into her bedroom to change out of her uniform, with only forty minutes left, she didn't have much time.

Someone like Elania Ceris would wear civilian clothing unless she was working on research, and that would only require a simple lab overcoat. In the hurry to escape sector seven, it would have been likely that other than some standard supplies on the freighter she was known for using, she would have next to nothing with her. Crystal quickly rummaged through her belongings to pull out the few sets of soft silk shirts and jean like material for pants that she had. It wasn't much since she always wore her uniform.

It didn't take her long to stuff things into a small bag, the nice thing about silk was that it didn't take much room to pack. It was why she chose it since Crystal hated to be wasteful with space. She set it on the bed and looked at the display terminal next to her bed, she still had twenty five minutes left, just enough time for her to quickly change and then grimace at her reflection in the built in floor to ceiling mirror on one section of the wall in her quarters.

The outfit was nice enough, but she didn't like the idea of being around Drace in civilian clothing. Normally she did not care, but it made her feel unprotected somehow, and it didn't help that she was still afraid of him. [I]Damn stupid assignment...[/I] With a audible growl she grabbed the small bag and took off towards the supply station to pick up the hand held computer. Another quick look at the time showed that she had just enough to get there and to the assigned hanger on time. [/FONT][/COLOR]

[Rachmaninoff]

[I]"I suggest you head back to your quarters and start thinking of other ways you can help to bring this war to a close."[/I]

Darren couldn't get those words out of his mind, even though it had been just over a week since they had left sector seven and headed for the border of sector eight. He didn't want to be the Shipping Expert let alone think of ways to help end the pointless civil war going on. At least not in the underhanded manner that Stevens was fine with. Darren however, was already regretting that he had done as requested earlier. Wishing that he could undo it to stop the damage it was going to cause. He didn't want to think about those who were likely to die as a result.

He couldn't help but laugh, it was probably why Stevens was restricting his access, to keep him from saying anything by not allowing him to contact Mike and see what was up with his own ship the [I]Wilkey[/I]. Telling him nothing as to how Kerstin was doing, even when he asked. Even Sandra was keeping him at a distance. He knew that with their current objective of moving to retake sector eight that a communications lock down was reasonable, but at the same time he got the feeling that he was being lied to. It was to be frank, beyond irritating and even the constant press of reports and work he was required to attend to couldn't take his mind off of it.

In the end, he couldn't see a way out of it, even if he wanted to leave, and he didn't want to think of ways to end the war either. [I]I can't win.[/I] Darren thought as he shut down the terminal in his quarters and went to fix himself a drink. [I]Even if we weren't involved in a war, the High Council could choose to execute both me and Kerstin... [/I]he shook his head as he finished pouring his drink and set the decanter back into the panel in the kitchen before he walked back out to stare into space as he sipped on his drink, thinking on how he could get free of the mess he was in, even though he knew there wasn't a way out.

Darren didn't know why they had dropped out of hyperspace on the border of sector seven and eight. Nor did he understand why they were near the Tarak asteroid fields since it made no sense that they weren't going around them. There was no way the huge flagships could follow the smugglers route through the field. Even his ship the [I]Wilkey[/I] would have issues since it was too large. Only a small freighter would be able to safely navigate such a place.

As he wondered just what in the world he was going to do, the thought occurred to him that by going through the Tarak, someone could beat the arrival of the fleet by three days. Were they stopped in order to leave a small force to prevent such a thing? To keep the stragglers who were attempting to flee sector seven from possibly warning them that the fleet was on it's way? Darren finished his drink and went to do something else, after all, even if he asked, no one would tell him anyway.

[Aaryanna_Mom]

Never had Daniel felt so old as the fleet finally pulled into orbit around the main home world in sector eleven. Though they had been able to avoid any unnecessary entanglements in sector fourteen thanks to the reconnaissance data Kiva had gathered, it didn't change the fact that the [I]Liberator[/I] was down in efficiency by a full twenty percent. It would be necessary to stay in sector eleven for a bit while repairs were taken care of.

"[B]Sir, I've made the arrangements for all crew to be on rotating leave, was there anything else you needed me to do before I head down to the surface to start securing the supplies we will need?[/B]"

"[B]No Spencer, go ahead, contact me when your ready for the final approval.[/B]" Daniel stood up as he got ready to head into the side observation and conference room off the bridge.

"[B]Understood sir.[/B]" Spencer bowed slightly and then left the bridge to head for the nearest transport room.

"[B]Wait here,[/B]" Daniel told the security as he entered the observation room and then sealed it from inside. No one could get into the room without clearance and even if the members of the security were considered one hundred percent safe, no one needed to be present during his communication with William.

Once the room was secure he sat down at the huge ornate desk and sent out the signal and waited for William to answer, to his utter surprise it was immediate.

"[B]Daniel, good to see you back in one piece.[/B]" William said.

"[B]That was quick, I was expecting to have to wait for a bit to hear back from you.[/B]"

William just laughed, "[B]Actually I have a surprise for you, though no one needs to know about it. You see I'll be arriving in the sector shortly, to go over some new developments that will be coming up in the next week.[/B]"

"[B]Are you sure that's wise sir? We still haven't found the mole in the fleet. Plus we lost key personal during the battle when we left sector thirteen, as well as quite a few personnel that we were forced to leave behind at Earth.[/B]" Daniel wasn't even sure why he objected, William had never been one to change his plans based on anything that Daniel said, making him wonder why the High Council was so determined to catch him. Even if he knew a lot about the Resistance and New Alliance operations, his knowledge of Williams was severely limited.

"[B]Let me worry over whether it's wise or not. It will be a day or two before I arrive so I suggest you focus on replacing those key personnel that you lost as well as getting the repairs to the [I]Liberator[/I] underway.[/B]"

Daniel cringed unconsciously, "[B]I'm sorry about that sir, allowing the ship to take such a beating.[/B]"

"[B]Don't be, I read the report you forwarded to me, it was an unfortunate but necessary tactic to allow the ship to be damaged to prevent Commodore Brian from being able to stop you in sector thirteen. If you had fled immediately he would have given chase, forcing you out of hyperspace. The probability of the damage from such a maneuver preventing you from re-entering hyperspace at that point was unacceptably high.[/B]"

"[B]I know sir,[/B]" Daniel sighed, "[B]I'm still sorry.[/B]"

"[B]In any case Daniel, I'll contact you once I've arrived, Williams out.[/B]" A moment later the communication line closed.

At that point, Daniel pulled up the lists he had been going over during the trip back, most of the key personnel that had been killed when the [I]Crescent[/I] attacked would be easy enough to replace, it was the head of security Franklin, who would be the hardest.

For now he had Greydon Kreid serving as the head of security on a temporary basis but now that they were in sector eleven it was probably time to make it permanent as he could think of no one else better suited to the job. Kreid had worked hard since coming on board and it was hardly his fault that Sara Sanders was no where to be found on Earth. Daniel only hoped that she was still safely in hiding instead of being dead or a prisoner somewhere else in the Versilan Empire. Even Williams knew nothing of her whereabouts.

Daniel hailed the security office. "[B]Kreid, I need you to come to the observation room on the main bridge.[/B]" He commanded when Kreid answered.

"[B]At once sir.[/B]"

he closed the communication and went back to reviewing the lists, once he talked to Kreid about taking over as the new head of security, they would need to talk about the arrangements for security while they were in sector eleven among other things, including finding a way to track down the mole in their midst. If not for the attack, they would have caught whoever was responsible already.

[SunfallE]

[COLOR="RoyalBlue"][FONT="Lucida Sans Unicode"]Celestia knew she shouldn't do it, that she should leave the exploit that she had found alone. But when the fleet stopped at the border between sectors seven and eight and Jason was moved briefly to assist with something else on the other side of the main computer lab, she found herself tempted to take a look. Curious as to what was going on other than the rumor that their next stop was to retake sector eight. It was probably one of the few chances she would have to do such a thing since it was rare for her to be at the terminal for her and Jason by herself.

She glanced around by virtue of stretching a bit and then went into the system, only to stop and stare at the screen in shock. Someone else was actually using the exploit at that very moment! Without thinking about it her fingers flew over the console as she input the necessary command to access one of her programs she had used to hack the update system when she was on Earth, before her and Jason had been captured. It was instinctive as she used it to be able to follow along and look at what the other person was doing, noting how information was carefully placed into the communication system to be sent out in fragments at different intervals.

If anything it only made her assumption that the person was a member of the Resistance more likely. It could have been someone up to no good or into the black market, but the nature of the information being sent was clearly something that would benefit the New Alliance more than any black market dealer. Celestia hesitated before she did one more thing, and the moment she did and the answer came back... In a panic she hastily closed the program and fought the urge to shake.

[I]Oh gods... I should not have done that.[/I] With only the greatest of effort was Celestia able to not lose it right then and there. Of all things, she had never expected it to be [I]that[/I] person![I] I can't say anything,[/I] she thought. [I]Not even to Jason! [/I] She went back to working on doing more of the final checks for the new update system, muttering and cursing under her breath when a voice behind her nearly caused her to jump through the ceiling of the computer lab.

"[B]What are you complaining about?[/B]"

Celestia whirled as if she had been shot, finding Kenath standing behind her. Had he seen what she had just been doing? [I]Damn![/I] She tried to speak but nothing came out, causing Kenath to sigh with exasperation.

"[B]This is what comes from pampering slaves,[/B]" He said with a sneer. "[B]Well this time we won't have any of this nonsense where the two of you retire to your quarters when we retake sector eight.[/B]"

[I]What is he talking about? [/I]Celestia wondered.[I] He's still acting as if I made that choice on my own when it was Dr. Matheson who ordered it![/I]

"[B]Dr. Matheson won't be around and Sub-Commander Drace's orders are quite clear, you will [I]not[/I] be shirking your duties like you did last time.[/B]" He said sternly. "[B]Now, I asked you a question, what are you complaining about?[/B]"

She opened her mouth and started to reply only to freeze in terror upon seeing someone heading their way. [I]No... Oh Gods...[/I] With a half sob she tried to move backwards only to fall out of the chair and slam into the terminal behind her. Banging her head painfully into the part that jutted out a bit.

Kenath was forgotten as she focused on the person approaching. She couldn't stop the tears that started to flow down her face as she pressed back into the terminal and whimpered in fear. [I]Why? Why did they have to put us on the same ship?[/I] The thought occurred to her that they were there to take Jason from her, but she was too frightened to even turn and look to see if Jason had noticed them.

"[B]For the love of?![/B]" Kenath exclaimed as he threw his hands into the air. "[B]What the hell is the matter with you now?[/B]"

"[B]I would imagine,[/B]" An amused voice said, causing Kenath to turn and see who had spoken, "[B]That this is Celestia's way of showing how [I]thrilled[/I] she is to see me again.[/B]"

"[B]Commander Scorer![/B]" Kenath came to attention. "[B]I'm sorry sir! I didn't realize...[/B]"

"[B]At ease Kenath, our meeting isn't for another ten minutes.[/B]" Jared smirked a bit. "[B]However I couldn't help but overhear your comments as to the orders regarding Celestia and Jason. You do realize that Dr. Matheson was following the High Council's orders, correct?[/B]"

Kenath moved to respond but Jared motioned for him to be silent.

"[B]I'll make it clear for you Kenath, when it comes to orders for these two, they come straight from the High Council and Sub-Commander Drace lacks the authority to countermand their orders, do I make myself clear?[/B]"

"[B]Yes sir![/B]"

"[B]Good, because I'm sure you don't need me to explain the penalty for going against the High Council do I?[/B]" He said in a tone of voice indicating the foolishness of such a move.

"[B]N.. No sir![/B]" Keneath replied, his voice quavering. Jared just turned his attention back to Celestia, looking down at her.

If she hadn't been so petrified, Celestia would have attempted to run, but instead, all she could do was watch and wait. Sitting there on the floor, leaning against the terminal so hard that if it were possible, she would have sunk into it. All the while hoping that Jared would simply leave. Wishing she could be brave and yet failing as Jared looked down at her.

"[B]Celestia![/B]" A panic stricken voice called out, causing her to finally break from watching Jared to turn her head and see Jason standing to the side a little further back, his hands tightly clenched as he fought his own fear of Jared to finally make a dash and stand between them, shaking with the effort.

"[B]It seems that I am unwelcome.[/B]" Jared said with a smile. "[B]No matter, I am not here for either one of you.[/B]" He turned to Kenath. "[B]I have better things to do than remind you about the proper chain of command.[/B]" He admonished him.

"[B]Of course sir![/B]" Kenath hurried towards his office with Jared close behind.

The moment the doors to Kenath's separate office closed, Jason felt his legs give out and he collapsed to his knees next to Celestia. Pulling her close to him and holding her tightly, ignoring the looks of the crew. None of them could possibly understand why they were so upset. [/FONT][/COLOR]

[Aaryanna]

[COLOR="goldenrod"][FONT="Comic Sans MS"]Valencia, as always, was lounging in the command chair of the bridge of the [I]Stykera[/I], her legs crossed as she lazily gave the order to drop from hyperspace practically on top of the local space forces at Gallana in sector eleven. There was no one to answer her order and yet the ship did as she told it, also disengaging the stealth systems at her command as well. She paid no heed to the sudden hustle of the local space enforcement nor the flashing light in the lower left hand corner of the main screen indicating that there was an urgent incoming message for her. A moment later a female's voice came from the speakers on her ship.

[I][B]-Valencia, the Gallana space forces are demanding an explanation as to why we are in their space.-[/B] [/I]

She ignored the computer as she punched in the command to switch their view to that of the New Alliance fleet that was currently in orbit around the planet. Just as she took note of the hustle around the[I] Liberator[/I] as crews worked to repair the damage.

"[B]That's going to take a while to repair,[/B]" She commented more to herself than anything else as she surveyed the damage by virtue of zooming in on several spots.

[I][B]-Valencia!- [/B][/I]The computer's voice rose sharply, sounding more like a real person instead of a program.

"[B]Oh calm down Cassandra, it's not like Gallana's space forces can really hurt us.[/B]" She switched the view back to one surveying the New Alliance fleet from a distance.

[I][B]-You know how I hate running away Valencia, just as I hate needing to be repaired.-[/B][/I]

Valencia just laughed, it was always the same with Cassandra, for a program that was suppose to be artificial, she behaved more oddly with each year. "[B]Hail the [I]Liberator[/I], after all, our cargo is for the Commander... What was his name again?[/B]" She teased.
[I]
[B]-Honestly Valencia, you'd be lost without me. It's Daniel Landers. How many times do I have to tell you?-[/B][/I]

She just smiled. "[B]Hail Commander Daniel Landers then if you please.[/B]" She leaned back and waited for the computer to do just that. A moment later the view switched to one of the bridge of the [I]Liberator[/I], but it was not the Commander who greeted her.

"[B]You're not Commander Landers,[/B]" She dismissed them before they could say a word. "[B]My business is not with you. Be a good boy and give him this code.[/B]" She rattled off a short statement. "[B]Now, run along and don't bother me again unless it's the Commander contacting me.[/B]" Valencia terminated the communication before the poor deck officer could get a word in edgewise.

[I][B]-Well that was rude of you.-[/B][/I]

"[B]Not really, it just saves a lot of trouble to avoid dealing with the messenger.[/B]"

If a computer could snort, Cassandra would have done so at that moment. [I][B]-You do realize that there's a modified Messenger ship here as well, if they ignore you and refuse to give the Commander that code, we can't out run them.-[/B][/I]

With a stretch Valencia just shrugged. "[B]It's not a problem, you worry too much. Besides that's the [I]Catalyst[/I] right? I wonder if it's still being commanded by Kiva Salqarian?[/B]"

[I][B]-Why would that matter?-[/B][/I]

"[B]It doesn't really, I just like staying on top of who's doing what.[/B]" She paused as a chime indicating the [I]Liberator[/I] was contacting them sounded. "[B]Well that was quick enough.[/B]" She opened the channel, pleased to see that this time it was the Commander.

"[B]Valencia Sabina, what exactly did you need?[/B]"

"[B]I would have thought the code made it obvious, I have cargo that I am suppose to deliver to you.[/B]" She offered him a lopsided smile.

"[B]True, it does, just as it also tells me what your payment is should the cargo be in order. All we will need to do is verify that and make the transfer.[/B]"

Valencia held up her hand. "[B]There's one other thing though, I'd like to negotiate additional payment for my services this time around.[/B]"

"[B]The contract was agreed upon already, such an alteration is beyond my power to approve,[/B]" He gave her a stern look. "[B]I'm quite sure that you are aware of this Miss Sabina.[/B]"

"[B]In that case, I suggest you call off the Gallana space brats while you take the time to contact whoever you need to in order to get that approval, I'm not really asking for much.[/B]" She casually reached over and sent the file to his location, smiling at the sound of a chime at his end indicating he had received it.

"[B]In the mean time I'll be amusing myself on Gallana, once you have your answer, just contact Cassandra.[/B]"

"[B]Cassandra?[/B]"

"[B]The computer on my ship of course.[/B]" Valencia didn't wait for him to answer and simply cut the communication.

[I][B]-You should have waited for him to call of the local space forces.- [/B][/I]Cassandra complained.

"[B]Stop being such a worrywart. They need the cargo.[/B]" She smirked a moment later when the local space forces pulled back and she was issued clearance to dock at the local space station. "[B]See? What did I tell you?[/B]"

[I][B]-One of these days you're going to land us in real trouble Valencia.-[/B][/I] Cassandra sighed as she maneuvered the ship into the assigned docking space.

Valencia just laughed as she called up a transport door and ignored procedure by transporting directly to the main capitol of the world, bypassing the required checks at the space station. It took her a moment to adjust to where she was in the local market and then head off in the direction of where the closest bar was likely to be. She paid no attention to the startled looks or other glances sent her way on account of her dress. Those foolish enough to do more than look would pay the price. [/FONT][/COLOR]

[Blayze]

[SIZE=1]It had been a few days since Kreid had killed Franklin and Andrews in the security room, and all traces of the incident were clearing up. He had been made acting Head of Security, and he proudly wore the badge on his chest. The autopsies had shown that both other security members had been killed by blunt traumas, most likely caused by the collision that had damaged most of the consoles in the security room.

Kreid was busy overseeing the repairs to the consoles, happy that he had erased all evidence of his off-ship transmissions. He would ensure that he did not make that mistake again. Just before he had deleted the log, he had made one final communication to the Empire, stating that he would be under total radio silence from now on. He had even dropped his Versilan-made communicator into the refuse compactor, after ensuring that all necessary data had been transferred to a safely encrypted hard drive elsewhere on the ship. He wasn't taking chances any more.

[B]"Can you make sure all the data you can save is transferred to the Commander's personal database?" [/B]he asked the technicians working on the consoles, who silently acknowledged his comment.

[B]"Kreid," [/B]came the crackly voice on the room's last working communicator, [B]"I need you to come to the observation room on the main bridge."

"At once sir," [/B]he replied, and deactivated the system, [B]"Continue with your work, men - I'll be back in a few moments."

[/B]The men acknowledged him once more, and Kreid left the room, heading for the main bridge. As he strode down the corridors, he straightened the badge on his lapel, making sure it was all in order for the Commander.

[B]"Ah, Kreid," [/B]said Landers as soon as he stepped into the bridge, [B]"I have good news for you."

"And what might that be, sir?" [/B]he asked, ever polite as he smiled at his nemesis.

[B]"We have decided that you will be made permanent Head of Security onboard the ship. You've done an excellent job in the past few days - Franklin would be proud of you."

"This is a great honour, sir," [/B]replied Kreid, [B]"Alexander Franklin was a great man, and I only hope I can honour his life by doing as good a job as he did."

"We all do, Kreid," [/B]said Landers with a smile, [B]"So, you will be co-ordinating directly with me on all matters of security. If I am not available for any reason, then you shall report to Spencer, who is not here right now. I will also be needing you to continue the search for the mole among the crew - we believe that Franklin was almost on top of it at the time of his death."

"Unfortunately, sir, all the encryption keys that Franklin and Andrews used were lost when the console was destroyed. We'll have to start from scratch, and even that could take a while - the technicians are working on the repairs in the security room as we speak, but I have no idea when it will be up and running again."

"That's fine. I realise I'm asking a lot of you under difficult circumstances, Kreid, but I have no doubt in my mind that you can do this job. You've proved yourself time and again in the field and in co-ordinating operations. Good luck."

"Thank you sir. Will that be all?"

"Yes, I should think so. If there is anything else, I will contact you over the communication systems."

"Thank you, sir," [/B]Kreid said with a salute, before spinning on his heel and exiting the room. This was even better than Kreid could have planned. He was being put in charge of the operation which was trying to uncover himself. He could throw it off at every opportunity, and make life incredibly difficult for everyone else involved in the investigation. There was no more need for pointless bloodshed.

The final layers of Kreid's trap were being set, and time was almost up for Daniel Landers.
[/SIZE]

[Horendithas]

[COLOR="Indigo"][SIZE="1"]Things had taken an unexpected turn for Jared as he had not expected to have direct contact with both Celestia and Jason, but upon overhearing Kenath speaking to Celestia he had intervened instead of simply waiting in Kenath?s office for him to finish. After all it was clear that Drace was blatantly ignoring the orders surrounding the two, or he had not bothered to truly look though their files. Normally he would ignore it, but doing so would have set a precedent of ignorantly dismissing the orders of the High Council and that, in Jared?s opinion was unacceptable.

Drace had yet to be a Sub-Commander on a flagship for long and already Jared was far from amused at his inability to follow orders that he did not care for, or rather it seemed that he did not, Jared didn't really know. But then he was not the one responsible for choosing him. One thing was certain though, with the recent assignment sending him along with his assistant Pheonia Roth and Crystal Matheson in advance to sector eight, if anything happened to Crystal? Jared would personally make sure Drace regretted it.

But for now, Jared simply smiled inwardly over the memory of Celestia and Jason?s reaction to seeing him for the first time since they had been recaptured. It did not surprise him, after all he had not been finished with the interrogations surrounding them as well as Daniel Landers when the Resistance had managed to rescue all three of them. And Celestia, even though quite intelligent, was ignorant of just how absolute the orders from the High Council were. They would not understand that any officer who took their career seriously, would never truly go against their orders.

[B]?I still say you should have sent me instead of Vallon Drace.?[/B] Jared said as he entered Sandra?s quarters, having just come from his meeting with the main Computer Specialist, Kenath.

Sandra turned to face Jared since she had not bothered to do so when he entered. ?[B]And I still say you don?t look like Elania?s assistant and unlike Drace, you are far to well known.[/B]?

?[B]And you think Drace isn?t? Especially after that stunt he pulled in sector seven?[/B]? Jared said incredulously as he moved to join Sandra who was still standing by the view of space, neatly between her office and the kitchen area of her quarters. He ignored her tiny flash of irritation.

?[B]You know perfectly well that Drace is well suited for this assignment, even if he seems to consider it beneath him.[/B]? Sandra turned her back on Jared. ?[B]If you really have a problem with it, you should be taking it up with Stevens instead of me, after all, that fool.[/B]? Her voice took on a sharp edge. ?[B]Was given the final say for that and more. The majority of the High Council agrees with him, my objections were overruled.[/B]?

Jared laughed, causing Sandra to whirl and glare at him, he choked a bit at her serious expression and brought his laughter under control. ?[B]Come on Sandra, do you really want me to spell it out for you? How long are you going to continue to say nothing when anyone with a bit of intelligence and observation can see how you really feel?[/B]?

He continued when Sandra simply turned with a sigh and looked back out into space. ?[B]It?s obvious that Stevens can see it, why else would he have done what he has and will do? Until you take the initiative and step forward and publicly state what you think, he will continue to do things just to annoy you.?[/B]

?[B]I know that![/B]? Sandra snapped. ?[B]But even if I made a motion or came forward with how I feel, it won?t change the assignment that Stevens has in mind for him.[/B]? She fell silent and then continued softly. ?[B]There?s also another problem that prevents me from saying anything.[/B]?

?[B]You haven?t told him how you feel, have you?[/B]? Jared guessed and then sighed slightly when Sandra shook her head. ?[B]Sandra, you can?t afford to hesitate, especially not now.[/B]? He grabbed her by the shoulder and turned her around so she was facing him again, the uncertainty in her eyes obvious.

?[B]How can I?[/B]? She finally said. ?[B]Stevens hasn?t even told him about what happened to Kerstin, or about the mission with Crystal, Drace and his assistant. He has restricted all communications with him on all levels including me.[/B]?

?[B]I see.[/B]? Jared let go of her shoulders. ?[B]I knew he was restricting the rest, but not that it included you as well. In that case I suggest that you say something as soon as you can.[/B]?

Jared reached up in an uncharacteristic display of concern, brushing her hair back a bit as he gently brushed her cheek with his right thumb. ?[B]Why else did you think I never went beyond teasing? Even though he tried my patience at times?[/B]? He let his hand drop.

?[B]I?[/B]? Sandra was speechless. ?[B]How long have you known?[/B]? She finally asked as she fought to keep herself from getting emotional.

Jared just smiled kindly. ?[B]Since both of you were imprisoned by the Resistance on Earth. To someone who doesn?t know you it was not apparent, but your barely concealed concern was easy to see.[/B]? Jared stepped back.

?[B]I need to go and start getting things ready for retaking sector eight. With Drace gone, I will need to make sure all of the preparations are taken care of.[/B]? He smirked a bit. ?[B]It shouldn?t be too hard since my interrogation with Chevast is pretty much finished. He broke so easily, it was almost embarrassing to see.[/B]?

Jared gave her the half bow that she was due when Sandra did not reply and turned and then left her quarters. Leaving Sandra to turn and go back to looking out at the view and to thinking about what to do about how things were going. Jared was right, she needed to say something, as soon as it was possible. [/SIZE][/COLOR]

[GuyYouMetOnline]

[COLOR=darkslateblue][I]This is not going to be pretty,[/I] Kiva thought. She nodded to the security guard, who opened the cell door. Kiva stepped through the door, into the cell on the [I]Liberator[/I] where Dalek was being held.[/COLOR]

[COLOR=#483d8b]Dalek looked up as Kiva entered. "What the hell are you doing here?" he demanded to know.[/COLOR]

[COLOR=#483d8b]"What do you think?" Kiva said.[/COLOR]

[COLOR=#483d8b]"I think I'm looking at the bitch I thought loved me. How the hell could you do this, Kiva?"[/COLOR]

[COLOR=#483d8b]"Damn it, Dalek, I'm the only reason you're still alive! If I hadn't done that, you'd be dead, and you know it. You wouldn't have let anyone capture two Council members. You'd have blown your ship before you let them be taken alive."[/COLOR]

[COLOR=#483d8b]"Better that than be captured by a traitor!"[/COLOR]

[COLOR=#483d8b]"Oh, shut up," Kiva said. "I didn't betray anyone. I think you're smart enough to know that I didn't 'turn traitor'."[/COLOR]

[COLOR=#483d8b]"You betrayed me, you bitch! Damn it, don't I mean anything to you?"[/COLOR]

[COLOR=#483d8b]"Do you think it was easy for me to do that? I know you know me beter than that."[/COLOR]

[COLOR=#483d8b]"I thought I did," Dalek said, "but it was all an act, wasn't it?"[/COLOR]

[COLOR=#483d8b]Kiva shook her head. "No. The only thing I faked was my loyalty."[/COLOR]

[COLOR=#483d8b]"How the hell could you be loyal to the Resistance, anyway? Didn't they-"[/COLOR]

[COLOR=#483d8b]"Kill my father? No."[/COLOR]

[COLOR=#483d8b]"You mean- was it the Empire that did it?"[/COLOR]

[COLOR=#483d8b]Kiva laughed a little at that. "You know, no matter how many times I hear it, and no matter what the situation, hearing that never fails to make me laugh. My father's death was an accident, Dalek. And as amusing as it was, I found it sad when both sides used it as propaganda."[/COLOR]

[COLOR=#483d8b]Dalek sighed. "So just why are you here?"[/COLOR]

[COLOR=#483d8b]"Because I know what I did, and I know how we felt about each other. How I still feel about you, whether you believe it or not. And I hope that somewhere, you still feel that way about me."[/COLOR]

[COLOR=#483d8b]"After you used those feelings to capture me?"[/COLOR]

[COLOR=#483d8b]"I think you know how hard that was on me. Lord, Dalek, I still feel like shit about it. But my orders were to take you and especially the Councilors alive, and there was no other way to do it."[/COLOR]

[COLOR=#483d8b]"Yeah, but I still have a right to be pissed off."[/COLOR]

[COLOR=#483d8b]Kiva nodded. "Yeah, and a lot more pissed off than you actually are."[/COLOR]

[COLOR=#483d8b]"That's because I do know you. At least, I knew you, and I don't think you faked everything. If you'd spoken to me immediately after capturing me, I think it would've been different, but I've had time to calm down. And I am glad you came to speak to me. It prooves that you're at least partially the Kiva I know. But I'm not ready for anything more."[/COLOR]

[COLOR=#483d8b]"I know," Kiva said. "This isn't easy for me either."[/COLOR]

[COLOR=#483d8b]"Yeah. And I still think you're wrong to be with the Resistance, or New Alliance, or whatever."[/COLOR]

[COLOR=#483d8b]"That just makes this worse, doesn't it? Well, I guess I'll leave, then. See you."[/COLOR]


[COLOR=#483d8b][I]Well, that went better than I was worried it would,[/I] Kiva thought as she exited the cell and the door closed behind her. [I]Okay, time to get back to the [/I]Catalyst[I].[/I][/COLOR]

------------------------------------------------

OOC: And that's your cue, Blayze.

[Rachmaninoff]

Darren didn?t get to wonder for long as to why they had stopped at the border of sector seven and eight, they had only been out of hyperspace for about half a day when he was summoned to Fleet Admiral Steven?s quarters. It had him wondering just what was going on just as it also had him worried as to why he had been summoned. After all, Stevens had been making snide comments about giving the crew something to gossip about. Not that they didn?t already and the few times he had said otherwise, he had just gotten knowing looks, indicating that the crew didn?t believe him.

As he entered Stevens quarters, he couldn?t help but wonder what Sandra thought of the rumors, after all, he had talked with her enough to know the history behind her and Stevens and how much she disliked him. Sandra also knew how much he disliked being teased by Jared and since he had been unable to talk to her since he had been transferred, he only hoped she knew that it was nothing more than rumors. Though even as that thought crossed his mind, he wondered why he even thought about it or why it mattered what she thought. And then Stevens came into the main room from the kitchen area of his quarters and his thoughts scattered.

?[B]Since I know how much you enjoy my company,[/B]? Stevens said with a smile as he approached Darren, ?[B]I?ll get straight to the point.[/B]? He continued forward smiling even more when Darren instinctively moved backwards, attempting to hide the look of panic on his face, falling into one of the chairs behind him. Stevens laughed and then took a seat across from him.

?[B]I intend to send you, along with your crew Mike and some personnel to sector four.[/B]?

?[B]Sector four? I don?t understand.[/B]? Darren lost his discomfort over being in Stevens quarters as he wondered just what in the world Stevens had in mind.

?[B]The [I]Wilkey[/I] will be here shortly to pick you up[/B].? Stevens smiled a bit. ?[B]I?ve had her modified though you can figure that out on your way to sector four.[/B]? He handed Darren a data chip. ?[B]It?s simple really, when sector fourteen was attacked, one of our head researchers there sent an emergency transmission via the shipping protocols since all other routes of communication were jammed. The message, because of the interference was scrambled and made it no further than the relay station in sector four.[/B]?

?[B]I still don?t understand sir, why would I need to go to sector four for that? If you wish for me take a look, wouldn't it be easier to simply forward it here?[/B]?

?[B]If only it were that simple. You see, an attempt was made to transfer the data, but because it?s scrambled, moving it resulted in even more of a breakdown in the data integrity. Normally I?d just send an Elite Specialist to physically retrieve the equipment and bring it to sector one but with the current Civil War, finding someone to do that isn?t easy.[/B]?

Stevens stood up, motioning for Darren to follow him, something that he did with trepidation, but Stevens was only heading for the expansive view in his quarters, stopping to look out as he continued once Darren was standing to the left of him and to the back a bit.

?[B]There?s another problem as well, the research data is mixed in with not only the newest shipping protocols, but with the older ones you recommended thirty years ago. Since only the researchers would know what data is not the protocols, you?re the only person who would really know the difference. The computer specialists I had look at it can?t separate the data with certainty.[/B]?

?[B]How is that possible? The older protocols were phased out.[/B]? Darren started to open up his hand held computer to check the data on the phase out and then started violently when Stevens turned and reached out and took both of his hands in his own as he closed his computer for him. Darren tried to pull free but Stevens held him fast, smirking at Darren?s reaction.

?[B]Why are you objecting Darren?[/B]? He smiled even more as Darren tried to pull free and look elsewhere. ?[B]Here I?m giving you the chance to get off of the [I]Conqueror[/I] and away from all the lovely rumors running through the fleet about the two of us.[/B]? He laughed when Darren jerked violently, pulling free and nearly falling over in the process.

?[B]I?m objecting,[/B]? Darren said angrily ?[B]because you?ve been keeping me in the dark about what the hell is going on around here.[/B]? He put his hand held computer back into it?s pouch. ?[B]Ever since you gave Kerstin no choice but to go to sector eight you?ve cut off all of my communications other than what?s absolutely necessary for my job.[/B]? Darren glared at Stevens who merely smiled some more.

?[B]And you really think I should actually let you in on top secret operations? What kind of High Council member would I be if I did that?[/B]?

?[B]Don?t give me that bullshit! I?m not asking for you to tell me that kind of stuff. All I?m saying is there?s no reason to restrict my all of my communications![/B]?

?[B]In other words, you?re angry that I won?t let you talk to Sandra, is that it?[/B]? Stevens laughed at Darren?s startled look and then overrode his attempts to say otherwise. ?[B]You should be glad that I?m sending you elsewhere.[/B]? He finished coldly. ?[B]I grow tired of your naive and uneducated understanding of the situation.[/B]?

?[B]And I grow tired of the way you and Jared toy with others lives.[/B]? Darren turned to leave but stopped when Stevens ordered him to, clenching his hands tightly before he responded. ?[B]Just tell me when the hell I?m suppose to leave if you won?t tell me about Kerstin or let me talk to anyone.[/B]?

?[B]You have thirty minutes to gather your stuff and head to the nearest transport room. Everything you need to know is on the data chip I gave you, I suggest you study it and follow the instructions on it.[/B]?

?[B]Anything else [I]sir?[/I][/B]? Darren said sarcastically as he turned to face him and then step back when he realized that Stevens had moved until he was right behind him. He flinched when Stevens casually reached out and grabbed his tunic with his right hand, pulling him closer. [I]Oh hell![/I]

?[B]Only that you should choose your words more carefully. We are at war Darren, and that means that I make decisions based on what's best for the entire Versilan Empire, not on whether or not it will make someone happy.[/B]" He let go and shoved Darren towards the door. "[B]Now get going and stop your pointless whining.[/B]"

[Blayze]

[SIZE=1]The technicians had finally completed the repair work in the security room, and Kreid was standing in front of the main screen, a number of his team members milling around him.

[B]"There's been some unauthorised activity down near the docking bay, sir," [/B]said one of them, handing Kreid a pile of documents, [B]"We believe it may have something to do with this mole that you've got us searching for."

"Excellent work," [/B]replied Kreid, taking the documents and looking through them as the worker went back to his station. There were a number of fairly useless pieces of information, the results of some background checks on crew members, and medical reports for himself and a few other key members of staff aboard the flagship.

[B]"We also have some unauthorised movement around the brig," [/B]said another of the team members, looking up briefly from her computer screen, [B]"Someone's gone in to visit one of the prisoners without security clearance."

[/B][I]I knew Tyrell would be too much of a loose end, [/I]thought Kreid, looking back to his first few weeks on board the flagship, [I]I'd better go and make sure he's not letting anything on.

[/I][B]"I'll take care of that," [/B]he said, [B]"I'll be back in a few minutes." [/B]He exited the security room, and as soon as he was sure he was alone in the corridor, he pulled out one of his guns and checked that everything was alright with it. He didn't want to kill anyone else and jeopardise his cover, but if he had to then he would silence Tyrell.

He strode down towards the brig, holstering his pistol again, and swiped his clearance card, which had been updated to give him almost unlimited access to the ship, opening the main door to the brig.

The brig was a much bigger place than one would expect, with high ceilings and a number of different levels. Clearly when the Versilans had designed this flagship they were expecting to take a number of prisoners and store them on board, perhaps negating the need for any kind of high-security detainment on any of the other flagships. Kreid waved his hand at the security guard at the main desk, who allowed him through without removal of his weapons, or anything else he had about his person.

[B]"Has anyone been through here who isn't registered with the crew?" [/B]Kreid asked him.

[B]"Just one, sir, but Commander Landers requested we give her special access to this prisoner."

"Which prisoner?"

"A man named Dalek - he's in cell 3A, just down the corridor there."

"Thank you, sergeant," [/B]said Kreid softly, walking down the corridor towards the cell. At least there was nothing happening with Tyrell - although he was a loose end that would need tying up before Kreid was done. As he strode towards the cell door, it hissed open and a tall woman stepped out of the cell, closing the door behind her.

[B]"Do you have clearance to be down here?" [/B]Kreid asked.

[B]"I have the Commander's express permission," [/B]she replied, [B]"And who might be asking?"

"I am Greydon Kreid, Head of Security on board this ship. I will need you to stay here until I can be certain that Landers allowed you to be here."

"Ah yes, the new Head of Security. Such a shame what happened to Alexander, wasn't it?"

"Indeed. Now, if you'll stay there for just a moment, I'll call through to the Commander."

"I really don't have time for this, Mr...Kreid, was it?" [/B]This woman began to walk past him, but he grabbed her wrist and locked onto it, an almost vice-like grip.

[B]"You will stay here until I can talk to the Commander," [/B]he said coldly, looking into her eyes, and being met with a cold stare which reminded him worryingly of his own. After a brief pause, she replied:

[B]"Fine. I shall wait, but you should know you're getting in the way of important business."

"I think you'll find nothing is more important than the safety of this ship," [/B]replied Kreid, letting go of her hand and pulling his communicator from his belt. He had a feeling this woman would be trouble.
[/SIZE]

[Aaryanna_Mom]

Once he was done issuing clearance for Valencia Sabina so the Gallana space forces would stand down, Daniel took a moment to see what her terms were for additional payment. As he read through the file he was torn between cringing over how it would only make it easier for her to steal things as well as the fact that she was actually selling things to the New Alliance. When he had still commanded the [I]Tempest[/I], he had heard the reports on how Valencia was known for playing both sides, though at the time he had found it hard to believe.

Usually such a thing was next to impossible due to the utter conflict in interest as well as the fact that she wasn?t referred to as a pirate for nothing. Valencia had a habit of simply stealing from the wealthier merchants instead of negotiating a purchase. Most notably Daedalus, Nagendra and Baldomero shipping, which ironically were the same three companies who?s owners had been found guilty of treason for illegal profiteering. One of Darren Anderson?s first moves upon being named the Shipping Expert for the High Council.

Daniel pulled up the existing files on Valencia only to be surprised to see that she had been actively involved in the acquisition and selling of cargo and information for nearly a hundred years. The more he read, the more he was both surprised and impressed that she had managed to slip though the cracks for so long. Like anyone else he had assumed that most if not all of what was known about her was a rumor, but if she really did have the cargo in question, that would indicate that there was far more to her than public knowledge.
[I]
Just what was Williams thinking by hiring someone like her to obtain the cargo?[/I] It was a question he knew he was going to ask him once he arrived. Even if she had the necessary skills to obtain the items in question, there was no getting around the fact that they would fetch a handsome price on the black market. Which was a lot more than what they were going to be paying her. Though if she got what she wanted, that could explain why she agreed to do it. It would be easier to simply have someone give it to her instead of tracking down the few ships that would even have what she had requested.

[B]?Sir, may I ask you something?[/B]?

Daniel?s thoughts scattered as he turned to one of the deck officers. ?[B]Yes?[/B]?

?[B]I?m sorry to bother you sir,[/B]? the young man said. ?[B]But what will happen to those who were left behind?[/B]?

He was surprised by the question, until he realized that the one asking was human and not Versilan. Daniel sighed inwardly, [I]I need to clarify what?s going to happen before the rumors get out of hand.[/I] He thought.

?[B]When the fleet reestablishes Versilan rule, one of the first priorities will be to check each slave to verify their identification number that they were issued when Earth was conquered.[/B]?

?[B]You mean those data chips they inserted into everyone?[/B]? The man asked.

Daniel nodded. ?[B]Yes. You see by doing so, they?ll know who is missing as well as identifying anyone who came from the fleet since a fair number of humans work for the Resistance.[/B]? Daniel sighed inwardly again, wishing he didn?t have to answer the question.

?[B]Those who are from the fleet, both human and Versilan will be shipped back to sector one for interrogation.[/B]?

?[B]You mean torture,[/B]? The man said flatly, his eyes narrowing in anger and disgust.

?[B]Correct, that?s exactly what will happen. Once they learn all that they can, they?ll then either be used for further experimentation or executed for treason.[/B]?

?[B]That?s just sick sir. No offense.[/B]? He added on hastily as if realizing that Daniel himself was Versilan.

?[B]None taken. I agree with you.[/B]? He took a deep breath and then let it out. He was debating what to say next when a chime sounded indicating that he had an incoming message. A brief glance showed that it was from Greydon Kreid.

?[B]What is it Kried?[/B]? He asked upon answering the call.

?[B]Sorry to bother you sir, but there?s a woman here in the brig visiting the prisoner in cell 3A. She claims to have special clearance from you.[/B]?

Daniel paused for a moment, running though his mind which prisoner would be in cell 3A and then replied. ?[B]You must be referring to Kiva Salqarian. She is correct, she does have clearance to be there.[/B]?

?[B]I see, thank you sir.[/B]?

?[B]Not at all Kried. I was going to discuss this with you later at our next meeting, but since this came up I?ll simply tell you now. Kiva Salqarian is always to be given clearance or assistance for any request that she makes. Any thing else Kried?[/B]?

?[B]No sir.[/B]?

"[B]Carry on then.[/B]"

Daniel ended the communication and then smiled a bit to himself, pleased that Kried was so quick to be on top of what was going on. With that kind of alertness and attitude, it wouldn?t be long before the mole was found and dealt with. And then, because Williams would be arriving soon, Daniel started going over all the reports and details that he would need to go over with him.