Command Decisions

By Doc

Word Count: 11,746
Date: 10/29/05
Series: Mini
Rating: K+
Category: Relationships
Pairing/Focus: William, Original Character
Warnings:
Summary: This is a continuation of Standard of Care and Discussion in my Dr. Kylen Salik universe. Obviously my characters were unwilling to let me finish the story without a sequel. They have my horse and fish hostage. Many thanks to all the squad members for their helpful suggestions. Special thanks to Lona who really helped this creatively-challanged writer out. As always read at your own risk <G>.
Spoilers/Disclaimers:

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Chapter 1: In Class Again

Doctor Kylen Salik

Bill has been true to his word and now all non-line officers are required to take command-training classes. Not that he would let any of us run the whole show solo, but he wanted even the non-line officers to be able to fill in. I guess I can see the reason, although in a crisis the best use of my talents is in the Life Station. I expected the memo, Bill told me about it last night. I sigh, how in all the worlds am I supposed to fit these classes on top of my other duties? I pull up my schedule and begin to make alterations to fit the classes in. I have no clue how I am going to pull off these courses with all my other responsibilities.

The course had been up and running for two weeks. While the workings of the human body come easily to me, the schematics and systems of the Galactica remain elusive. As I had thought, the classes have taken up almost all of my limited free time, and are now impinging on my work. I am a few weeks behind on medical reading. Dan and I had started a medical journal to keep fleet physicians up-to-date, and now I don't have time to read it. My sleep is suffering as well, what with staying up late in an effort to keep up with the course load. Also I am short-tempered at work and my staff walk around in fear of sending me off on another tirade. Oh yeah, and I haven't seen Bill in over a week. I had better get moving, today is simulation training, or as I think of it, "Five hundred and one ways to blow up the Galactica without really trying."

I look over the mock destruction that had been the CIC mock up as Colonel Tigh and the rest of the class begin to wander into the simulation room. Colonel Tigh starts speaking in a condescending tone, "Ok, Dr. Salik, what did you do wrong?"

I figure the first answer that pops into my head, "Taking this class with you as a teacher," is not the answer he is looking for. I instead opt for the more conventional, "I forgot to check the damage control panel before rerouting power to the accessory relays."

Unfortunately, Colonel Tigh has not finished with me. He walks around the simulation room and continues, "Well that was one thing, anything else? How about anyone else? Does anyone want to tell the good doctor what other mistakes she made?"

The only thing I can think of that comes close to this zealous persecution is the Morbidity and Mortality conference I attended while in training. An image of dumping bait into water and watching sharks attack crosses my mind as Col. Tigh continues to speak, listing my sins for the whole class to comment on and pick apart. Colonel Tigh goes through each error in detail and what would have been the correct action. As class draws to a close Colonel Tigh gets in one more comment, "Well, Doctor, I think that was the fifth time you blew up the Galactica, a new class record." Everyone laughs but me.

I leave the simulation room and begin to make my way to the Life Station. I am due in there for an extra shift. Not only have I decimated the simulation room, and been berated in class, but I have volunteered to pull an extra shift of work. Damn. I'm covering for Mark while he and Cassie are on a dinner date. It's my of making up for my "difficult" behavior lately. At least someone is going to have a good time. I decide to take a detour and stop by the officers' mess for a cup of "coffee" or maybe even weasel the mess crew out of a whole pot of the "synthetic dishwater" to last me the shift. I need to finish reading that chapter in the command manual.

After a stop at the officers' mess I am in my office. I say a quick prayer to the Lords of Kobol for a quiet night in the Life Station. But I have never been lucky and usually on-call is busy so I have little hope. Despite my best efforts to focus, I know I need to rest a bit when I reread the same sentence four times. The chapter can wait; I will hopefully finish it later. My head goes down on my arms. Unfortunately a moment later a crewmember is brought to the Life Station complaining of increasing belly pain and he requires emergency surgery to remove his appendix. What Lord did I offend in a past life? I think.

Normally after the end of a twelve-hour shift I would go to my quarters for some serious naptime, but I have to get through another command class first. I estimate about three cups of "synthetic dishwater" will get me through the class, and then I can get some sleep.

I sit in my usual desk in the back of the room. I'm the only doctor in the class. Colonel Tigh is in front of the room and begins, "Ok, let's get started. Yesterday we covered…"

Damn, who is poking me and why am I using a book for a pillow? Lords, I have fallen asleep in the frak'n class again. I look way up and see that it is Colonel Tigh who is poking me. He begins speaking now that he has my attention. "Nice of you to join our class, doctor. Can you answer that question?" Everyone in the class has turned and is looking at me and the Colonel.

I want to say, "I was asleep, you dolt, so of course I can't answer the question." Instead I sigh and state in what I hope is a respectful voice, "Sorry, sir, I didn't hear the question. Would you please repeat it?"

Tigh replies in a voice full of sarcasm and condescension, "No. That's the third time you've fallen asleep in class, Doctor. You know, if you paid attention, you may not blow up the ship in simulation. I think you need to put in some extra time to make up for all the material you slept through. Aside from the usual reading, I want a paper from you describing the function for the fuel filter system and…"

I have tried to be good and respectful to Colonel Tigh but I will not tolerate being treated like some Academy plebe. Something inside me snaps as the Colonel is speaking. The long work hours with too little sleep, as well as attempting to keep up with all my other responsibilities has pushed me to a breaking point. This berating is the final straw.

I suddenly stand up, move into the Colonel's personal space, and look up into his eyes. I really wish I were taller. "My rank is Commander, which I believe when I last looked outranked a Colonel, so where's my salute?" Colonel Tigh automatically snaps off a salute probably without thinking while I continue on, "I'm not doing a paper on anything. And you know what? I'm not going to read a damn thing tonight. Do you want to know how I spent last night, you sanctimonious bastard? I spent it on my feet in the operating room with my hands inside someone's abdomen removing a ruptured appendix. Why don't you come and join me in surgery and let's see how good you do? I'm leaving and going to my quarters and getting some sleep."

Colonel Tigh has recovered, his face turning bright red with anger, but he doesn't back down. "You're not leaving this class, Doctor. The Commander has made attendance mandatory and delegated me full powers of enforcement to make sure everyone attends."

If Colonel Tigh wants to play hardball, that is fine with me. I stand my ground and say, "Then you'd better arrest me because that is exactly what I'm doing."

As I turn to leave the room I hear Tigh calling in the Galactica marines. "Arrest Dr. Salik and take her to the brig. Maybe some time there will cool her off."

I try to get a handle on my anger, this outburst isn't my usual style but it seems like I have no control. At least I don't fight the hold the two giant Marines have on me. I can't resist giving Colonel Tigh one parting shot. "Yearly physicals are coming up Tigh, and I'm personally going to request doing yours! I hope you don't mind big needles."

As I am led away to the brig one marine asks, "Do you want me to get any reading material for you, Doctor?" That's really is nice of him.

I reply, "Thank you, Private. Please bring me the Galactica tech manual and I have a stack of medical papers on my desk in my office too. Oh, and please pick up some highlighters I have on my desk."

"Yes, ma'am."

As I am "escorted" through the corridors I see heads turning. Guess you don't see your CMO being taken to the brig everyday. I wonder how long it will take for the gossip to make it to the CIC where Bill is working. Oh Lords. What will Bill say? Maybe I should have saved that letter of resignation.

I walk into my cell and watch as the door is shut and locked. I look around the brig. It seems ok as brigs go. I'll have to ask Starbuck's opinion. She's spent more time in brigs than me. It could do with some paint and maybe a vid box. A screen around the head would be nice. At least they have given me plenty of blankets. The marines have apologized for locking me up, but that may have be because of the comment I made about yearly physicals being due soon and making sure they saw me looking at their nametags. I stretch out on the cot, pull up the blankets and close my eyes. While I really should read another chapter on weapons systems and backups, right now my brain is shutting down, and I need sleep. At least it is quiet in the brig and the guards won't bother me. Colonel Tigh had better hope he never has a medical emergency, EVER.

**********************************************************

Commander William Adama

My shift in CIC has been quiet so far. The crew knows their duties well, and they really don't need me to monitor them, but even though the Cylons had not been seen since Ragnar, I have a feeling they are out there somewhere, waiting. A movement catches my eye and I watch a Specialist enter CIC and quietly start talking to Dee. I have turned back to the monitor that depicts Galactica's engine outputs when I realize that Lt. Gaeta is by my side, CIC is strangely quiet and all eyes are on me. Now what?

I turn to Lt. Gaeta and ask, "Lieutenant is there a problem?"

Gaeta looks extremely uncomfortable then he speaks, "Uh, Commander I don't know if you're aware of this but Dr. Salik was taken to the brig about a fifteen minutes ago."

I take off my reading glasses. I'm sure my face mirrors my disbelief. "What? Did I hear you right? Our CMO was taken to the brig?"

"Yes, Sir."

I'm about to continue when Saul comes into CIC at a brisk pace. I begin to see a picture here. Saul comes up to me and says in a slightly breathless voice, "Commander, can I have a moment of your time, in private?" Saul must have really hustled to get from the classroom to CIC in hopes of giving me the news personally, but you know what they say about ship's gossip.

I turn to Lt. Gaeta. "Lt. Gaeta, you're in charge until I return."

We walk from CIC to the nearby wardroom. I turn to Saul and ask, "Ok, Saul, what happened? I assume it was you who threw Dr. Salik in the brig."

Saul's voice matches the frustrated look on his face. "Damn, I wanted to tell you personally. She was openly disrespectful to me in class and then said she was leaving. I had to call the marines when she started walking out. I couldn't let her get away with openly defying authority. You know, for someone so short she can be quite intimidating."

I know exactly how intimidating Kylen can be when she puts her mind to it. I sigh and try to remember when was the last time I actually saw Kylen instead of talking to her message box or through the com. It has to be over a week. I wonder what happened to make her engage in such uncharacteristic behavior. She can be sarcastic as hell but she never openly defies the command structure. Something had to be very wrong.

I look at Saul. They have a problem. She has publicly defied a given order and has been openly disrespectful. This isn't something that will just go away, and I cannot appear to show favoritism to my "girlfriend." "That doesn't sound like Dr. Salik." Saul gives me a long speaking look until I amend my prior statement, "Okay, Kylen. Happy?"

Saul gives me a quick grin, happy that he had gotten his friend and commanding officer to "give" on calling the Doctor by her first name. He is the only person aside from Lee with whom I have discussed my relationship with our CMO. Saul's opinion at the time was, "Bill, you are one surprising son-of-a-bitch. I hope you don't live to regret this."

My relationship with Colonel Paul "Solomon" Tigh or "Saul" as I call him goes way back to the time we were both viper pilots. We have been the best man at each other's wedding. To many Saul is a difficult person to work with, but I have never had that problem with him. He went through some tough times before the Cylon attacks. Saul's wife gave new meaning to infidelity. Her adultery was a joke among officers of the Fleet, and she made sure Saul knew about each of her indiscretions. Saul was hurt, and turned to alcohol. The only time he would open up and talk to even me was when he was drunk. There was nothing I could do to save Saul's marriage, but I had enough influence to request Saul for the job of XO when I finally gotten command of the Galactica. Since the Cylon attacks, Saul stopped drinking and has become the XO I knew was always there. Now I watch my old friend, waiting for an explanation.

Saul thought carefully as he formulated his reply, "During her tirade she said something about working last night. How long are the shifts in the Life Station anyway? Eight hours? The whole thing started when she fell asleep in class. That was the third time she has fallen asleep in class, and I needed to make an example of her. When I gave her an extra writing assignment, she went ballistic. I couldn't let it slide Bill. Most of the others don't want to be there either."

I remember a long ago conversation with Kylen about shift and on-call in the Life Station.

"Shift length varies depending if the person is on-call or not. Usually a shift is about eight hours, but on-call is about twelve, that's twelve hours on top of the regular eight. How about letting her cool her heels in the brig for a few hours? She's probably sleeping anyway." I decide I might as well ask the question on my mind now rather than later. It won't get any easier. "Can I get you to drop the charges?"

Saul seems unsurprised at my question and a thoughtful look comes over his face. "Hmm, I'd be willing to drop the charges citing extenuating circumstances, but she has to give me a public apology, and write that paper I wanted her to do for the falling asleep in class. Want me to tell her?"

I definitely know the answer to that question. "No, Saul, this is better coming directly from me." A stray thought comes to me. Will Kylen still want to continue our relationship after this? I decide to stop that line of questioning right now. She has told me several times how she feels about the two of us. I have to believe we can get through this.

Saul shakes his head and looks relieved. "She's not going to like it. I'm glad you'll be the one telling her." A regretful look crosses his face as he continues, "Sorry, Bill. If only she hadn't done it so publicly."

Even though Saul has offered to take the rest of my shift, I decline. I will need the coverage when I visited my CMO in the brig.

Three hours later I stand outside her cell. I give a discreet cough in hopes that she'll awaken, but the bundle of blankets on the cot in the cell doesn't move. On the cell floor I note a daggit-eared copy of Galactica's technical manual, and several scattered papers that are highlighted in various places with at least four different bright colors. I never understood how coloring up paper helps her to retain information.

Since the classes have started I have had to almost make an appointment to see Kylen. She has left numerous messages for me saying that she had class work to do, medical literature to catch up on, a course to teach or a lecture to give. On top of that, she still has had her usual Life Station duties and shifts. She has not joined me for dinner or trips to the gym in over a week. When the command training was set up Kylen's other responsibilities were not taken into account.

Initially, I thought the training classes were a good thing. I would never let a non-line officer run the whole show, but with the right training they could fit in as much-needed support for more experienced Galactica officers. Most of the class is made up of Fleet officers that had been on Galactica for the decommissioning ceremony.

I sigh and try again. "Commander." "Doctor." "Kylen?" No movement. She is either ignoring me or deeply asleep. I really hate to wake her but I need to resolve this issue between her and Saul now. I pitch my voice a bit louder and try again, "Kylen."

I hear a moan and see the mound of blankets shift. A sleepy muffled voice reaches my ears, "Go away unless you brought a hacksaw or a cup of real coffee with cream." I have to smile.

I know my next statement is not going to be received well. Maybe it is a good thing she was behind bars. "Colonel Tigh is willing to drop the charges if you publicly apologize and write that paper he wants."

A head pops out from under the covers. Her hair is in complete disarray. It would be a cute picture if not for the dead serious brown eyes that are looking at me and the fact she is behind bars. She clears her throat and replies, "Does the term 'when Kobol freezes over' mean anything to you? No, I think I'll stay here and get some sleep. Please be my guest and court-martial me. A life sentence on the Astral Queen has got to be better than this. By the way, if a medical emergency should occur, you and Colonel Tigh can handle it. Now let me sleep. Oh, I forgot -- let me sleep, Sir." With that statement she falls back down and pulls the blankets over her head.

Ouch. I knew that she was going to be in a bad mood. I already knew she was not enjoying the command training classes and simulations. Saul said that she personally had destroyed the "Galactica" about five times, a class record. But the other trainees had not fared much better. Apparently I seriously underestimated how much she hates these classes and how much of her time they are taking.

I wish I could sympathize with her, but I have to be the Commander now. I can only hope she will understand. "Kylen, you were out of line. You publicly disobeyed an order and were openly disrespectful to Colonel Tigh. This can't be fixed by a few hours in the brig. I want you to issue Colonel Tigh a formal public apology." The form on the cot moves, she throws off the blankets and stands to face me. It has been several days since I last saw her. She is thinner and there are dark circles under her eyes. Even her skin seems pale, almost sallow. I have missed her presence, not only in my bed but also in my life. Looking at her now, it seems I have also missed what these extra demands are doing to her.

****************************************************

Doctor Kylen Salik

I look at Bill through the bars and shake my head. I've missed him, but I hadn't realized how much until I see him standing outside my cell. He must be disappointed in me. I was the laughingstock of my class and I would bet a whole bag of nonexistent coffee beans that it reflects back on him. I have also been difficult to work with lately. I feel a failure in class and at work. I want to just chuck it all, but I can't do it. Bill deserves more. "You know, Bill, I have served in the Colonial Fleet for a long time. First time I was ever thrown in the brig." I turn away from him and paced the small space. I can feel him watching me. He is waiting for me to continue.

But before I can say anything, Bill begins speaking. "I'm not letting you resign your commission or quit the class, so don't even open that topic." His voice is even, and holds not a hint of compromise, but his eyes are asking me to work it out. He continues on. "I'll talk to Colonel Tigh about a lighter schedule. You still need to apologize to him though."

I sit back down on my cot and sigh. "Fine, I'll apologize to Colonel Tigh for being out of order. But won't this reduced class schedule be perceived as favoritism?" I decide to put all my cards on the table and continue on, "However, Bill, I refuse to be treated like an idiot in class. I'm an officer, not a line officer, but an officer all the same, and I expect, no I demand, to be treated as such and not like a fresh-faced plebe on his/her first day at the Academy."

Bill sighs. "You're the only medical person in the class, and have a significant number of responsibilities associated with your position as CMO. I don't think it's favoritism to accommodate training classes into an already over-booked schedule. Kylen, I wish there was a way I could teach you, but you know that can't happen. Conflict of interest. Saul isn't singling you out. Command training is tough. You can't have people breaking down in the middle of a battle."

I walk over to where Bill is standing outside my cell, wrap my hands around the bars and say, "I'm not stupid, Bill, I understand pressure. I deal with pressure every day. What I resent is being treated like I'm some wet-behind-the-ears first-year trainee. I did my time in the trenches. The Colonel needs to understand that he is not talking to cadets but to officers with experience, not command experience but experience all the same."

Bill's hands cover mine and he smiles, saying, "I'll remind Colonel Tigh that he should be aware he's teaching seasoned officers and not a cadet class."

Not only have I missed Bill but I feel as if I have let him down in some way. "Sorry I lost it in class. I'm frustrated with the classes and was tired from pulling an extra shift. Forgive me?"

Bill just smiles and says, "Kylen, it will take more than that to push me away. You're forgiven. Just try to give Colonel Tigh a chance."

The speaker overhead interrupts. "Trauma category 2, Trauma category 2."

The marine guard looks at Bill and at his nod opens the door. Kylen walks out of her cell and gives the marine one last parting comment, "Thank you all for your hospitality. I hate to be arrested, sleep and run but I need to get to my day job." I take off and head for the Life Station.

******************************************************

Commander William Adama

I have done the best I can with Kylen. "Dating" my CMO has definitely turned into a full-time job. I knew dating her wasn't going to be easy, that there were bound to be times when I would have to be the Commander rather then Bill. However, I have to admit that I had become use to the informality when we are alone. I had also gotten use to her sharing my bed. At least she is still talking to me. I decide to discuss the command classes with Saul during our mid- shift meeting. Hopefully I can do it in such a way that I don't sound like I am looking for special favors.

It is now mid-shift. Both Saul and I are in my quarters reviewing the performance of the "trainees." I have been pondering how best to bring up the issue of Kylen and not sound like I am asking favors for my "girlfriend."

I finally decide to just bite the bullet. Waiting won't make it any easier. "Do you think you can cut Kylen some slack, Saul?"

He looks at me. He has a half grin on his face as he replies, "Is that the Commander talking or her significant other?"

I just knew Saul would enjoy my discomfort. I get up from the table we are working at and pace the area. "Right now I'm not sure, probably both. She pulled a double shift the other night. The last time I saw her -- over a week ago -- she spent the evening reading the manual for hours. When she finished that she started reading some medical stuff. She looked like hell today in the brig. I'm sure she's not getting enough sleep even on her off-duty nights. I can see she has lost weight and I haven't been able to get her to go to the gym. The Life Station personnel have complained to me personally about her being unreasonably demanding and short-tempered because they're too afraid to bring it up with her and you know what a tight-knit group of people they are."

Leave it to Saul to throw my own words back at me. "You made the classes mandatory, Bill. We can't make her a special case. It'll look like favoritism."

I stop pacing and look at Saul. "True, but I don't think either you or I took in the other responsibilities she has. I mean, the rest of the class is from the legal sector or fleet public relations, there are no other physicians except Kylen."

Saul looked thoughtful before coming to a decision. "I think I can work something out. Maybe drop her post work shift class with a stipulation of making the time up." A thought seemed to occur to him as he spoke. "Bill, I know you can't teach or evaluate her, but what about tutoring? I'll go talk to her. I still want a public apology. We'll sort the rest of it out. We'll have to. I remember the look she gave me while being taken away to the brig. If we can't work it out, you may find your XO on a slab in the morgue sometime soon. No, I take that back. Salik is smart. You'll never find my body." I chuckle at that while Saul continues, "She was looking like she wanted to castrate me during that last class. Do you know where I can find her?"

I had a pretty good idea. "I last saw her leave the brig and head to the Life Station, but she can be a damn hard woman to find when she puts her mind to it. Thanks old friend." I walk over and place a hand on Saul's shoulder.

*****************************************************

Colonel Paul "Solomon" Tigh

I shake my head and arise from my seat while I say to Bill Adama, "Personally, I don't know how you do it. For such a small thing she can be very formidable. She had me throwing her a salute before I even thought about it. She's not someone I could see myself dating. How you're able to deal with her is beyond me. But you two look good together and you deserve to be happy." I decide to push my luck and get in one final shot before I go to find Dr. Salik. "I must be getting soft in my old age. You're rubbing off on me, Bill."

I look down the Life Station corridor. According to the staff, Dr. Salik was last seen heading toward the back of the Life Station. There is supposed to be a storage closet … Ahh, there it is. I open the door and move into the dimly lit room.

A voice comes out of the darkness, "The doctor is NOT in. Take two sederol and call another doctor in the morning."

As my eyes adjust to the dim lighting, I can see her sitting on a stack of linen. Her whole posture speaks of fatigue, even exhaustion. Perhaps I pushed too hard so I wouldn't be accused of showing favoritism because of her involvement with Bill. Best to get this started. "Doctor Salik, we need to talk."

She sighs and says, "I left that paper you wanted in your box. You'll get a full apology in class tomorrow."

I could say fine and leave, but having tracked her down, I will not lose this opportunity for a private talk. I owe it to Bill. So I walk over and sit down next to her on the linen stack. "I'm not singling you out you know. Everyone in that class has had a hard time. Command training isn't easy. We need to resolve this."

She looks surprised. My words seem to leave her speechless for a minute. She gives me a sidelong glance and says, "I'm listening. But for the record I find your teaching methods abusive and counterproductive to learning. I'm not a wet-behind-the-ears cadet, and neither is anyone else in that room. I think you need to lose the attitude and approach us like professionals. Having said that, how do we resolve this?"

I rein in my temper. How Bill deals with her is way beyond me. I venture, "First, I think we'll have to set up a reduced schedule for you. Maybe I can get the Commander to …"

She interrupts me. "He already told me he couldn't teach me due to our current relationship. And, won't this reduced schedule look like playing favorites because I'm dating the Commander?"

Damn the woman! The least she could do is let me finish before cutting me off. With a sigh, I doggedly continue, "You have a lot of responsibilities outside the class. That wasn't taken into account. I was thinking missed classes could be made up at a different time. And I wasn't talking about the Commander as a formal teacher but more as a tutor. He's commanded the Galactica for years and no one knows her better than he does. Take advantage of that. You don't have to be so damn independent all the time."

I watch as Doctor Salik processes what I have said. The thoughts cross her face too quickly for me to follow. In a way it is like looking at Bill when he is making an attack plan.

She finally looks up at me and says, "I'll talk to the Commander and see if he can spare some time to tutor me."

The things I do for Bill. "I'll lose the condescension and adjust the attitude."

************************************************

Doctor Kylen Salik

I am still in a bad mood so I finally decide that after my shift I will just go back to my quarters for some much needed rest. The discussion with Colonel Tigh surprised me. He actually seemed to want to work out our differences. I'm sure we both still have some issues to work on, but he made some valid points. I have been trying to do this all by myrself. Maybe it is time to get some help.

When I finally enter my quarters, there are a few messages on the com, but I only really listen to the one made by a certain gravelly voiced Commander. He wants to know if I would like a "personal" tour of the Galactica during third shift. His voice alone makes me smile. He really is very sweet, although still extremely devious. I leave an affirmative reply and settle down for some serious naptime.

It is now third shift. Bill and I are walking the corridors, dressed in standard duty uniform. I carry a portable schematic of Galactica while Bill points out key structures. Every so often I ask a question as we walk. I am impressed. Bill not only knows primary bypass sites, but also sites to bypass the bypass sites. He really does know the Galactica like the back of his hand. Nothing escapes his eye.

I have to admit that this is a good idea. I have unconsciously been guilty of a reverse snobbery. I was so sure I was the only one who could teach myself this. In the past, I have listened to Bill talk about his job, but have never really bothered to ask him about the nuts-and-bolts working of Galactica. He understands the Galactica like I understand the human body, maybe even better. What do you know? Colonel Tigh does give some good advice.

We continue on and Bill's low voice is a pleasure to listen to. "Over there is the main power junction for the CIC. You can see the access panel. If the junction is hit or goes down then you would have to reroute power through subsystem four over in corridor twelve. I showed you that area just before we came here."

Up ahead Bill sees the entrance for the officers' mess. He says, "Here's the officers' mess. Let's take a break, grab something to eat, and sit."

He gives me a look as we sit to eat. He seems to feel more relaxed and content than when our tour began. I also feel less tense. As we eat, he asks, "Getting any easier? Tomorrow I can run through some training simulations with you."

I smile as I think that he can run through anything he wants with me.

I learned more about the Galactica in this two-hour tour with Bill than all the command classes to date. Damn, Colonel Tigh was right, I need to quit trying to be so damned independent. "The private tour is helping. Seeing it visually gets the picture in my mind. You really are impressive. How you remember all this is beyond me. The simulation stuff would be great, thanks." Bill gives me an intense look and I see a slight flush spread across his scarred face. I may have just embarrassed him.

We continue to discuss various topics over dinner. As we are finishing up, I can see wheels turning in his head. Finally Bill says, "How about I give you a guided tour of my quarters after we finish here? I can show you my collection of Galactica power coupling schematics."

I shake my head and wonder where he comes up with these lines. I reply, "Is that the best pick-up line you have?" Bill has been patient and I have been bitchy lately. He deserves a medal for tolerating me. "We really need to get you some new material, and yes, I would love to."

As we return our trays and leave the officers' mess Bill is smiling as he replies, "Why mess with success? You said yes."

When we enter Bill's quarters, he closes the hatch and takes me in his arms. I have missed him. I think he has missed me.

I really hate being short sometimes. I have to almost stand on my toes to reach Bill's mouth. He feels good against me, his arms holding me tightly. When was the last time we held each other and kissed?

When we separate Bill looks at me and asks, "Stay the night, Kylen?"

Lords, I want to. I always sleep better with Bill next to me. It must have something to do with body heat. But I still have a lot to catch up on and start to say so, "I still have a lot…"

Bill seems to decide that he won't have any of that. He gives me a slight shake and interrupts, "It can wait. Tonight you need to sleep." He lets me go and walks over to his bunk, retrieving an article of nondescript clothing from it. He is smiling like a kid as he hands me his old Academy Boxing Team shirt and says, "Here I got you something to sleep in." He knows it's my favorite shirt.

He is dropping a pretty obvious hint.

I say to myself, Bill is one devious bastard, but I have to admit that I like his style. I have worn this shirt before when I have stayed over, but usually with sleep pants. It comes to just above my knees. I am very definitely getting Bill's not too subtle hint. I wasn't born yesterday.

But I decide to tease him a little. So I look up into his face and say, "I may get cold only wearing this."

Bill smiles but otherwise keeps his tone of voice serious as he replies, "I'll make sure you don't."

I take first dibs on the bathroom and change while Bill wanders around turning down lights and locking the hatch. I get into his bunk while he is in the bathroom. When he joins me in bed, he pulls me into his arms, holds me close and kisses me for what seems like forever. When we finally part I am a little breathless as I say, "I thought you said I needed to sleep?"

He isn't deterred. "I also said I would make sure you didn't get cold." He kisses me hard and pulls me to him.

My last coherent thought for a long while is, "Devious bastard."

Chapter 2

Coffee and Questions

Mornings are my favorite time of day. Well, to be specific mornings when I wake up beside Bill. I can just lie here all warm and comfy and not have to do anything or be anywhere. I give a soft happy sigh. Today is even better because I'm excused from Command training classes to attend a mandatory medical meeting aboard the Lenna Dell. I feel so good that maybe after the meeting is over and I've caught up on some of my homework, I'll even volunteer to go boxing in the gym with Bill. He could probably use a good laugh.

There is movement from the body next to mine, a tightening in the arm that holds me close, and a soft kiss to the top of my head that lets me know Bill is awake. His voice is a low rumble as he speaks. "Good morning. Did you sleep well?"

I have to smile. Damn, the man has one hell of a sexy voice. "Yes. I always sleep better when I'm next to you." That earns me another hug and kiss. I continue, "What's on your schedule for today?"

He replies, "Well I have the early shift in CIC and then a meeting with President Roslyn. I know you have that medical meeting this morning. How about later we go run through some simulations in the mock-up CIC?"

Hmm, boxing versus simulations, neither are my favorite ways to spend time with Bill, but of the two, simulation training may prevent me from blowing up the Galactica. I sigh and say, "Ok. But I'm not making any promises not to blow up the ship a sixth time."

Bill just pulls me close, all the while laughing as he says, "I would never ask you to make promises you can't keep." Smug devious bastard.

I walk into the hangar bay area to where my shuttle is being prepared for the trip. I see a familiar face come from around the shuttle, obviously doing a pre-flight check of her own, and I walk up to her saying, "Starbuck, what are you doing here?"

She smiles and says, "I'm not scheduled for patrol for another three days. Lee knows I get antsy when I can't fly, so he occasionally puts me on shuttle service. Besides, I saw your name on the list and figured we can get in some girl talk on the way over and back." With that statement we both laugh.

Starbuck and I have fallen into a habit of meeting about once a week to just talk. It's nothing formal or scheduled but still we seem to find the time.

I get into the shuttle and start to head to my usual seat when Starbuck enters and waves me to follow her into the co-pilot seat. I ask, "Isn't there some sort of rule forbidding a non-pilot from sitting in the front seat? None of my other pilots let me sit up front with the adults."

Starbuck smiles and says, "Yeah, there are rules but if you don't tell neither will I. Besides this way we don't have to scream across the cabin to talk to each other, and you get a nice view."

I sit quietly as she contacts the launch officer and the shuttle is elevated from the hangar bay and into the landing pod area. We take off and she settles back. The darkness of space fills the forward window, broken only by starlight, and the occasional running lights of our fleet. I watch as her hands fly over the controls. "You look like you could do that in your sleep, although I prefer you keeping your eyes open for now."

She smiles. "I've been flying for so long its second nature. You've patched me up a few times; no one is faster with the laser suture than you."

"It's needle and thread now Starbuck." She gives me a quick look of surprise and then turns back to make an adjustment to the controls. "The laser sutures are only used once in a while. Fuel is rationed and most goes to the engines and life support. So for all minor patch-up jobs and most surgeries we use needle and thread. Easier to manufacture."

"I didn't realize." We are both quiet for a few seconds then she starts speaking again. "How are things with you and those classes? I heard you got into it with Colonel Tigh and thrown into the brig. Rumor has it the Commander pulled some strings, busted you out and got the Colonel to drop the charges. Are you taking a page from the Starbuck manual of military protocol?"

I sigh but smile as I reply. "Well at least the first part is true. No matter how hard I try, and how much tutoring I get, I'm just not cut out to be in charge of a ship. The Commander and Colonel made some adjustments to the schedule for me because of my other duties as CMO. But for a while there it was really too much and I guess I just lost it in class." I smile remembering Tigh thowing me that salute.

"What?"

"Oh, just remembering the look on the Colonel's face when I ordered him to salute me. Of course that was right before I tried to walk out and he had me thrown in the brig. By the way what do you think of Galactica's brig compared to others?" We both laugh for a bit.

"How are things with you and Lee?" Starbuck gets quiet then says, "Mostly ok."

"That's not a rousing endorsement. You want to talk about it?" I watch as Starbuck tenses up a bit. "Lee asked me to share quarters with him. I wasn't expecting it. I said I would think about it. I think he expected a different answer."

"You're like each others shadow. It's not suprising that would be the next step. What about it is bothering you, making you hesitate?"

"I don't know. Look can we talk about this another time?"

"Sure. But if you need a second opinion, I'm here."

She turns back and begins talking with the Lenna Dell about landing, and soon we are set down and lowered into a docking area. "Thanks for the ride, Starbuck. Are you going back to Galactica or are you going to wait?"

"I'll wait. This shuttle isn't needed back and it saves on fuel. Besides I hear that someone on the Lenna Dell set up a viper flight simulation program, and want to give it a try."

I laugh. "Yes, the guys in biomedical did. Follow me; it's on the way to the conference room. I think they would love for a real viper pilot to give it a test run. Most of the people I talked to think it's pretty good." I also take note that by staying here Starbuck manages to avoid Lee.

I drop Starbuck off in Biomedical and head to the conference room. The room is packed with the top scientific minds in the fleet. I sit next to Dr. Dan Janner, our Fleet Surgeon General, and can see several familiar faces, there are the "Coffee Maniac" guys from Genetics, next to them are the husband and wife team from Virology, Drs. Lawson, and a little further down the row is Dr. Dell from Botany; to name only a few. The room is filled to capacity with people who have so many degrees I swear you could spell out the names of all the Lords of Kobol, twice.

We are all here for one purpose. Project CoGen.

When that twit, Dr. Lessing, had yapped on about a "medical conspiracy" he was right in a way. Oh not when he accused Dan and I of conspiring to make him look bad, he did that all by himself. However, there is a tightly held secret among the medical/scientific community. Project CoGen or the Coffee Genome Project started small but has since expanded. It seems the medical and scientific community cannot live without real coffee and everyone has pitched in to contribute.

Dr. Manny Leeds, one of the "crazy" geneticists stands and opens the meeting. "I'm glad you all could attend. We called this meeting to update you on our progress in developing a genetically engineered coffee plant. I think you all know the beans were donated by Dr. Salik. As you know due to degradation of the DNA we were unable to isolate an intact genome. Thanks to Dr. Dell however, we isolated DNA from likely compatible plants and spliced in parts to make an intact DNA. Unfortunately, our first few attempts were less than successful." There is general moaning and gagging sounds around the room. Even I have to admit that first attempt tasted worse than the "synthetic dishwater". Manny continues, "We now have a new generation of test plants already growing and are just waiting for the beans to mature. Of course, the beans then have to be processed to see if they make a drinkable coffee. I think you all had personal experience with our first few attempts at making coffee."

Again moans and gagging sounds fill the room along with laughter.

A voice comes from the back. Dr. Braden, a Ph.D in Ecology stands and begins speaking, "Not to be a party pooper, but what are you doing to address the soil issue? We're a space faring civilization now, and soil is used only to grow essential food crops. I can't see the government wasting valuable soil and space on growing coffee when we have so many other needs."

Damn he brought up a good point. I quickly reply, "I don't know about soil, but I know the Galactica isn't operating a full compliment of Vipers. Maybe a few of the hangar bays can be converted for horticulture?" All eyes look at me and there is an under current of suppressed laughter around the room. What did I say that was so funny?

Dan helpfully whispers me a hint. "Uh, Kylen have you cleared such a plan with the Commander? I mean after all it is his ship."

OOPS. I make a strategic retreat. "Of course, I would have to clear it with the Commander first." I throw Dan a grateful look. I guess Bill would be a bit miffed if I took over one of his landing bays for coffee growing. But, Lords, when I still had coffee he was the biggest coffee-moocher I ever saw, he may go along if I phrase the request right. Yeah right Kylen when daggitts fly.

Dr "Mo" West (another one of the genetic guys) speaks up. "Actually we already got around the need for soil. Dr. Dell and Drs. Lawson have helped us engineer a plant that requires no soil once started. Think of it as similar to that moss that grows in the Caprican swamps. It grows on trees and gets most of its nutrients from the air itself. If we put this together right, the current coffee plant will need only a minimal amount of soil for starting out, and when grown need none at all, getting the majority of it's nutrients from the air. We can just hang it on the pipes. Another plus is that we engineered it to act as a very efficient carbon dioxide scrubber and oxygen generator. So far, the preliminary tests are looking good. If this pans out the new plant will not only grow coffee beans, but also act as a filtration system to supplement our current ones. Not all ships in the fleet were designed for long times in space like the Galactica and sooner or later the current filtration systems are going to fail."

I am impressed. There may be a lot of grumbling among the civilian fleet about this and that, but the cooperation among the scientific community is alive and well. I look around the room and hear general murmurs of approval. I decided to ask a question that had been on my mind for some time. "So Mo, how soon can we test out these new plants? And aside from the soil and filtration properties, how big a `crop' can we expect per plant?"

It is Dr. Jack Roy (the third member of the genetic trio) who answers my question. "Actually, the number of beans per plant is triple what was harvested from the standard Picon Blue plant. The beans have a maturation cycle one third shorter than the parent plant. We are hoping that the beans will be ready to harvest soon and complete processing in about one standard month.

I respectfully suggest we all meet in about one month to.." and Jack gets a wide grin on his face, "test the fruits, or should I say the coffee, of our labors."

The room erupts in applause. This is amazing. I walk up to the "Crazy genetic guys" as they are known and say, "I'm impressed, you went above and beyond the call of duty."

Jack smiles and says, "Well we still have to see how it tastes, but this current plant looks like a winner. Thanks to your donation."

"I only donated, you guys ran with the ball."

Jack gets an almost ecstatic gleam in his eyes and continues, "Still we needed a place to start. If this works the whole fleet will benefit, and I don't mean with coffee, but with other plants as well. We can apply the techniques we used here to genetically alter several other crops. This is only the beginning. May the Lords of Kobol bless this work."

I take note that I'm not the only one who replies, "So say we all."

After the conference, Dan and I spend some times reviewing fleet medical problems. Despite my being in the military, Dan has appointed me his deputy over the objections of several politicians. It seems they have a problem with me being military. Dan quickly told them what they could do with their objections. We run through any potential medical issues between the civilian and military fleet. So far things are pretty standard.

I watch as Dan shuffles his papers and looks at me. There is something in his eyes I can't quite place. He begins, "Kylen, I know the Galactica was originally a Caprican based vessel but your current crew hails from all twelve colonies. I was wondering if you have heard anything regarding problems with health care on the Virgon liner, Tellassis?"

I ponder that question. "Not really. I know there are only about one hundred Virgons on board Galactica, including crew and their immediate families. Some still may have relatives living aboard the Tellassis. Why the interest? Have you heard of any problems, and should this be something I pass on to the Commander?" Dan gives me a long speaking look and I roll my eyes saying, "I mean Bill. Happy?"

"Extremely. You almost never call him by his name when you talk about him. I just want to make sure you knew it. By the way, my wife Molly wants to have you and `The Commander' over for dinner sometime. It would be very informal; you can even dress in civvies." Dan gets a big smile on his face at that statement.

Dr. Dan Janner is a lanky man in his mid fifties with gray hair and gray eyes. He is married to Dr. Molly Swan-Janner. While Dan does general medicine, his wife is an Oncologist and has a large lab on the Dell dedicated to cancer research. His two sons and their families are also on the Dell, all physicians or techs. Dan always tells me he prays to the Holy Lords everyday thanking them that so many of his family had survived the holocaust.

I smile back saying, "I would have to clear that with Bill before I can say yes, but it sounds wonderful. Now, what about the Tellassis?"

Dan becomes serious as he speaks. "I've heard some things, vague complaints from the teams I send over to do medical checkups and basic health care. The complaints have been escalating, over the last month. Both doctors and techs feel they're being kept away from certain areas. No one could give me any hard data, so I'm going over today to have a look-see under the guise of routine health care visit. Want to come along?"

"I have a pretty full schedule."

"Cancel it. I want your opinion. You did a stint on Virgon if I remember correctly, didn't you?"

"Fresh out of training I spent about two years on Virgon at the Colonial Fleet Base there. Good people but rather insular. They don't take easily to outsiders. They have a pretty rigid class system, a small upper class of old moneyed families, and a large lower class. The lower classes usually lived in rural villages or on small farms. There were also others working the mines or factories. Not much of a middle class. There were always some radical political elements, espousing overthrow of the current system for something more democratic, but nothing ever came of it."

"See, that's what I need, someone who knows the culture. Clear your schedule and help me assess the situation."

I call the Galactica and discuss the change in my schedule with Col. Tigh. It seems the Commander is still with the President. "I'm not sure when I'll be returning. The Surgeon General and I along with a medical team are going over to the Tellassis."

How Col. Tigh managed to sound so dubious over a com unit is beyond me. "I don't like this. Perhaps you should have an escort or some Marines for protection."

Dan takes the com and says, "Look Colonel, I appreciate the offer but this really is a civilian issue, and a medical one at that. If anything looks suspicious we'll call."

The com is silent for a while then Col. Tigh replies, "Doctor, isn't Starbuck your pilot today?"

"Yes Colonel."

I can tell Colonel Tigh's not happy about this little side trip. "Good, take the shuttle and Lt. Thrace along. But if anything even smells funny you get out of there and call the Galactica."

Dan, myself and the team meet in the hangar area. After I introduce Starbuck to Dan and the team we board the shuttle for the trip to the Tellassis. It's a short flight. The Tellassis looms into sight. It's a large Virgon liner and is home to about two thousand. Because I'm once again in the front seat with Starbuck, I can hear her getting landing clearance to enter the shuttle area.

Once aboard we exit the shuttle. The hangar bay area looks pretty standard, with deck crews milling around, and storage boxes along the wall. However, it's not as neat or as orderly as the hangar bays are on Galactica. No one beats Chief Tyrol for a neat hangar bay. The Galactica, despite being a military vessel, doesn't usually have what appears to be an entire squad of marines (or security guards) stationed throughout the bay and carrying weapons.

I am brought out of my musings by the arrival of a small group of people. While some are obviously government officials, most of the party is clearly made up of security personnel. What were they expecting, the medical team to storm and take over the ship?

One person detaches from the group and comes forward to greet us. He gives the shuttle, Starbuck and myself a worried glance before he begins speaking. "Welcome Dr. Janner, this is an honor. We never expected the Fleet Surgeon General to take time from a busy schedule to run the health clinic on our ship. I'm Minister Veran, and I'll be your escort while you're aboard." The man is all smiles, but I get the feeling there is a lot more going on here than what you see. He looks past Dan to the rest of the party and his gaze again settles on me. "Dr. Salik. What's the CMO of the Galactica doing here?"

I step forward extending both my hands palms facing out in a traditional Virgon greeting while saying, "Actually I'm just filling in here. The other physician that was supposed to work with Dr. Janner had a family emergency and had to cancel at the last minute. Since I was available, I volunteered to cover." I give him a smile while I continue, "It's not often I get off the Galactica, so I jumped at the chance. I hope you don't mind."

Minister Varen is quiet for a second, then smiles. "Well a double honor for us. Welcome aboard, Doctor. You know our ways; did you spend time on Virgon?"

I refrain from rolling my eyes and continue smiling as I reply, "Yes, just out of training I was stationed for two years at the Colonial base on Virgon. I enjoyed my time there, and had the opportunity to meet a few Virgon healers." Varen takes what I say in stride, and we continue with the rest of the introductions. Our group is then escorted to the Life Station. Nearby is a separate suite of rooms that serve as quarters for visiting medical staff. Not a bad set up.

Varen excuses himself, but gives some final words of advice. "I would appreciate you not go wandering the ship by yourselves. Certain Virgon sects consider it an insult for strangers to enter their area unannounced or uninvited. I am going to post some guards here in case anyone needs an escort. If there are any problems or you wish a tour, please call me and I'll arrange it."

We are finally alone. Dan sends the three techs off to check out the medical treatment area while Starbuck and I sit at the common table. Dan looks at me. "Something's not right. Did you see the number of guards escorting us? I get the feeling we're more like prisoners than guests."

Starbuck looks at Dan and I saying, "I agree. We need to contact the Galactica. I don't like the feel of this."

I speak out. "The Life Station has a direct com with our Life Station and possibly CIC."

Starbuck looks at me while walking to the com and asks, "How do you know that?" Before I can reply she activates the com, but instead of Dee in CIC or a tech in the Life Station, we get the communications officer on the Tellassis. "Is there something I can help you with?"

Starbuck mouths "Frak" but says, "This is Lt. Thrace, I need an open com to the Galactica so they know how long we're going to be over here. Can you connect me with CIC?"

The disembodied voice replies, "Lt. Thrace, we are currently experiencing problems with the Life Station com link, I'm sorry for the inconvenience. We have crews working on the problem, but until it is fixed, can I pass the information onto Galactica?" Starbuck looks at Dan and me. Dan holds up three fingers. "Thanks, please notify Galactica to expect our return to the Dell in about three or four hours. Thanks Tellassis com, Starbuck out."

Starbuck hangs up and snarls, "Frak!" and then begins pacing the living area.

I look at Dan and ask, "Since when do Life Station communications route through general communications? I thought direct lines were set up to Galactica's Life Station or the Dell from all civilian vessels after Ragnar?"

Dan is wearing a frown when he answers. "This is new. There were no communication problems the last time a team was here. Is it possible what they say is right? Look, we can't do anything now, let's get the clinic open and proceed as usual. If there are any more of these new problems, we are out of here."

I sigh, and look at Starbuck asking, "Is there any other way we can send a coded message to Galactica?" Starbuck shakes her head while saying, "There's the shuttle communications system. That's military and therefore can direct link with Galactica. I'll see if I can get escorted back to the shuttle because we forgot some things."

I look at her and say, "Do your best, although I wouldn't be surprised if there is suddenly a very good reason why you will not be able to return to the shuttle."

Starbuck goes and talks to one of the guards. After a few minutes she comes back looking angry. "Would you believe there was a chemical spill in the same hangar where our shuttle is? No one can go into the area until it's cleaned up."

Dan and I look at each other and say at the same time. "Convenient."

Since we can't do anything else for now, Dan and I open the Life Station to anyone seeking medical attention. Starbuck volunteers to help out rather than sit alone. As I work I note that Starbuck has a crowd of children around her and she is teaching them basic pyramid with a deck of cards. I just smile.

Most people need wellness care, vaccinations, or treatment of minor wounds and burns. The patients are all well dressed, and obviously from the upper classes. Things are business as usual, when there is a commotion outside the station. A woman is screaming and carrying a child in her arms. From her dress I can tell she is from the lower classes. The guards are attempting to hold her back and shoo her away. Dan and I break from our exam areas and go to the entrance. A guard tries to block our way saying, "Please stay inside. We'll take care of this."

Too bad I don't take orders well. I walk up to him and look up into his eyes. Damn I wish I were taller. I say, "She wants medical attention. Now stand aside and let her in because if not, I'll notify the Galactica and we'll see what the marines have to say about this."

Dan is right beside me and finishes off by saying, "I think the President as well would be interested if civilians were being deprived of health care. Let her pass."

There is a moment of indecision, then with a disgusted look orders the guards to let them through. As we walk the woman back into the Life Station I look at Dan saying, "Woo, threatening to tell the President. I like it."

Dan is not without a comeback. "Well after your not so subtle threat to tell your boyfriend, I had to say something."

"Wiseass."

"Sticks and stones, Kylen."

We get the child on an exam table. The woman, his mother I assume stands by nervously, but her eyes take in everything. Aside from the obvious wound in his upper thigh, he is way too thin and his cloths are almost rags. From the smell, I can tell he hasn't bathed recently. I examine the leg, I would swear it looks a shrapnel wound, a very infected shrapnel wound. What is a child doing with a wound like this on a civilian vessel? Dan needs to know about this, there is definitely more going on here than problems with poor people getting access to health care. I walk over to the mother and after giving her the traditional opened-hand greeting say, "He has a bad wound in his thigh, I'm going to have to take him into surgery to explore it. I'm concerned about infection as well. He needs antibiotics."

She interrupts saying that we need to have a Virgon priest bless the area before anything else can happen. I know this is a tradition observed among some of the rural classes. I look at her and ask, "Is there someone available, because I need to treat that wound? The sooner the better." As she scurries off Minister Veran enters the Life Station looking very upset. "I just heard from the guard that there was an altercation. I'm so sorry. Here we can treat the boy ourselves. There's no need to trouble yourselves."

I look at him and say, "The boy stays. He's under my care and needs to have antibiotics and that wound explored before he loses the leg. I don't remember seeing a surgeon on your ship passenger list. Now get out and let me treat the boy."

Yes I have pissed off the twit. Dan has walked over and backs me up. "Dr. Salik is correct. The boy needs to stay and get treatment if we are to have any chance of saving his leg. It's why we're here, to treat all the sick."

Varen looks at Dan, me and the rest of the team. He finally shakes his head and says, "Fine. What happens is on your head. I'll leave the guards here."

Dan tries to get more information. "Why do we need guards, Minister? What's happening here?" Minister Varen waves a hand as he turns his back and walks off. Dan and I look at each other. What by all the Lords of Kobol just what is going on here? I get a sick feeling in my stomach that maybe we should have brought some marines with us.

The woman finally comes back with a Virgon priest and the traditional blessings are given. I take the boy to the operating theater to explore the wound. The piece of metal has managed to miss the major arteries, veins, and nerves, but its been there for at least two to three days so there is a lot of infection at the site that needs to be debrided away. The good news is that while the infection is extensive, the boy will keep the leg and hopefully return to normal with some rehabilitation. Of course nothing answers my question of just how does a kid get a wound like this on a space-faring ship? Bill really needs to hear about this. This is definitely more than a problem with health access.

I come out into the main Life Station area so I can inform his mother how her son did, only to find several hooded men armed with guns and other weapons trained on Dan, Starbuck and the other members of the our team. The Virgon guards are on the floor bound and gagged and unconscious, but seemingly alive. Before I can even think I'm grabbed from behind, my hands tied and a foul smelling rag is placed over my face. Then I know no more.

Chapter 3: From Bad To Worse

Commander William Adama

I enter CIC after the most frustrating meeting I've ever had with our President and motion for Saul to follow me to the wardroom. I don't need to look back to know Saul is right behind me, and as we enter I close the door.

Saul gives me a long look and observes, "I take it your meeting with the President was less than satisfactory, Sir?"

I give him a hard look back then reply, "You can say that. It seems there have been some major problems in the civilian fleet that the President didn't think warranted military intervention. Unfortunately, all her attempts to deal with the situation have failed and now it's escalated. She tells me today that she wants me to send the Marines in to `stabilize' the situation."

Saul looks concerned and asks, "What's the problem?"

"Ever hear of a Virgon ship called the Tellassis?" Saul pales and curses, "Damn!"

We've known each other too long and his outburst gives me the feeling I'm not going to like what he has to say. "What?" I demand in a sharp voice.

Saul takes a deep breath. "Dr. Salik called when you were meeting with the President. It seems the Surgeon General requested her presence on a visit to the Tellassis to look into health access issues. To top it off, Starbuck was her shuttle pilot today so I had her fly Dr. Salik, Dr. Janner and the medical team over to the Tellassis. Their shuttle departed hours ago. They should have been on their way back to the Lenna Dell. I was in the process of hailing Starbuck to see what was keeping them. So far the only one Dee has been able to talk to is Tellassis com, who has been giving her some daggit-crap story of a chemical spill in the hangar bay holding up any landings or launches. If they had a chemical spill then I'm the next Holy Lord. Something is going on over there. How bad did the President say the situation was?"

"Bad enough. Damn. It seems the Virgons have recreated their class system. A minority has all the wealth and status, but there are hundreds who live in poverty. On the planet, they would live on small farms and be able to make some extra money selling produce and other goods but trapped on a ship, they don't have any recourse. It seems most of the supplies are going to the upper class, while the lower ones are only getting enough so they can survive and continue to do the menial jobs on board." I start to pace the wardroom as a way to burn off some of my frustration. Especially after hearing that Kylen and Starbuck are over there. This whole situation is going from bad to worse with FTL speed.

Saul looks as frustrated as I feel. He asks, "Why only now are we being informed? If there were problems, we should have heard about them sooner."

I look at Saul and sigh. "Those were my exact words to Madame President. She told me it was a civilian matter, and according to the `articles of colonization' falls under the jurisdiction of her office. She has been trying for over three months to work out an amicable solution and somehow provide more access and representation to the lower classes. All her efforts came to nothing because the current Virgon leadership sees no problem with the `status quo' and have refused to even consider allowing the lower classes any representation. She even threatened an embargo of goods and medical supplies but didn't go through with it. Unfortunately now we have an even bigger problem."

Saul again curses under his breath as I continue. "The dissatisfaction has gone to the point where rebel groups have organized. They no longer trust any promises the colonial government is making, and now are espousing violent overthrow of the current Virgon leaders. Not that I blame them, but they have been getting bolder. Last week they set off a bomb in the cargo area of the Tellassis. It was all kept quiet. Damn woman. She should have told me sooner."

Saul curses. "Damn. Starbuck and Salik walked right into it."

Parts of me wants to hit something, or at the very least go a few rounds in the ring to relieve some of my frustration at this whole situation. But right now the best thing I can do is keep a cool head and be the Commander. I need to stay in control and somehow get Kylen, Kara, and the rest of the medical team back saftly. I send a prayer to the Lords that Kylen and Kara are both alive and safe.

I take a deep breath and turn to Saul saying, "Saul, I want you to personally contact Tellassis and find out what is going on with the medical team. You talk directly to that ship's Captain, no middleman and no daggit-crap. I'm going to contact Madame President and inform her about this potential problem. Oh, have a squad of marines on stand-by ready to shuttle over to Tellassis just in case."

"Yes, Sir."

Both Saul and I exit the wardroom and enter CIC. I have Dee put in a call to the President's assistant, Billy Keikeya (maybe Dee can pull some strings with her boy friend). In the background I can hear Saul. From his end of the conversation I think Saul has personally raked the Tellassis com officer over the coals and is now doing the same to the Captain. Good. Saul is one of the best I know at being surley and in your face, especially when he knows he's right.

I am told by Dee that the President is in a meeting but her assistant will have her call me the moment it is over, which should be in a few minutes.

I want to start pacing CIC but instead remain still. Transmitting my frustration and worry over this to the crew won't help matters. Frak. Kylen and Kara over there. Then another thought enters my head. Lee should be told. I'm trying to deicide whether it would be better to tell him our suspicions now, or wait until we know something really is going on, when Lee enters CIC. He comes up to me saying in a low voice, "Starbuck's shuttle is long overdue, Commander. I respectfully request we call over to Tellassis and request the reason for the delay."

I respond, "Col. Tigh is already looking into the matter." In a low voice only Lee can hear I continue, "We have reason to believe there's a situation onboard the Tellassis but want to confirm it."

Lee doesn't say anything else, but the tightening in his features say it all.

I hear Dee saying, "Commander, the President is on the line." Now is when things are going to get really interesting.