Word Count: in progress
Date: 3/05
Series: Season 2
Rating: T
Category: Relationship
Pairing/Focus: Sharon/Helo, Sharon/Tyrol (two separate Sharons)
Warnings:
Summary: Making certain assumptions concerning the First Season
Finale and Second Season Opener (since proven largely in error), and of the two
‘Boomers’’ respective roles therein, how might the Cylons react to such
treachery? And what could happen as a result?
Spoilers/Disclaimers: Spoilers for ‘Kobol’s Last Gleaming
pt.2’, especially; and some Second Season episodes, as well. The characters
and situations in this story are adapted from the Sci-fi Channel Original Series
‘Battlestar Galactica’, which is property of the Sci-fi Channel and of
Universal/MCA. No copyright infringement is intended, and no money has changed
hands.
Chapter One: Memories and Regrets
Another day begins aboard the Battlestar ‘Galactica’, some weeks after the fleet had departed the Kobol System.
Lieutenant Karl ‘Helo’ Agathon steps out onto the hangar deck of the ship he had once given up on ever seeing again. The first person he encounters is Senior Chief Galen Tyrol, who claims the hangar deck as pretty much his personal domain.
“Good morning, Sir.”, with a crisp salute.
Returning the salute, “Good morning, Chief.”
Both can feel the awkwardness between them – an awkwardness that has almost nothing to do with military discipline or protocol, much less the social barrier between officers and enlisteds. An awkwardness that is not only a barrier between them, but also, paradoxically, a bond. A bond of… shared regrets?
After another moment, “Still thinking of her, huh, Sir?”
“Yeah, Chief. I don’t know if I’ll ever forgive myself.”
“Same here, Sir.”
“Same time this evening, same place?”
“Yeah,… I mean, Yes Sir.”
Helo appears to not notice, or else not respond, to the Chief’s unintentional faux pas.
“Very well, Chief. Carry on.”
The two men move on, to start their respective workdays aboard ‘Galactica’.
********************
Each man starts reflecting on the ‘her’ that Chief Tyrol had referred to: Junior Lieutenant Sharon ‘Boomer’ Valerii. For ‘Helo’ the memory is one of budding love that had turned – at least for him – to bitter hatred, and then back to love only when it had become too late for that restored love to be anything but painful for the both of them – all because she had proven to be a Cylon! Nonetheless, during the time he had been stranded on Cylon-occupied Caprica, that particular Cylon had looked out for him – had come to love him – had remained steadfast in that love even after he had turned on her. When Lieutenant Kara ‘Starbuck’ Thrace had arrived on Caprica, with a story about needing to retrieve an old artifact called ‘The Arrow of Apollo’, ‘Boomer’ had made her getaway from a man who had shot and then brutalized her after learning her true background. However, having escaped, she had made a beeline for one of the oldest museums in Delphi, a major city on Caprica. ‘Helo’ and ‘Starbuck’ had gone after her as soon as they had realized where she was going and why, meaning to kill her, once and for all. The shocker had been the next time they had seen her – coming towards them with the Arrow of Apollo, and begging them not to shoot.. She had then accompanied them back to the city’s spaceport – now a Cylon military base – where she had apparently triggered a false security alert, clear on the other side of the base from where the fugitives actually were – thus giving them a brief window of minimal resistance in which to make their move. She had capped off her astoundingly un-Cylonlike behavior by helping them commandeer a ship, of the type they would need to get back to ‘Galactica’ – a Cylon Light Transport. The last few minutes he ever saw her alive are burned into his memory.
********************
As ‘Starbuck’ had powered up the ship for liftoff, ‘Helo’ had gone over to ‘Boomer’, who was showing no sign of joining them. Rather, she looked like she was getting ready to fight a small war.
“Sharon, aren’t you coming?”
She smiled warmly, for just a moment. Acknowledging that his love for her had indeed been reborn, at last.
However, “No, ‘Helo’, I’m not. Someone needs to cover your escape, and it’s too late for me anyway.”
“Sharon, I’m-“
“’Helo’, *don’t*. Not now.” Then, “Just make it out of here in one piece, okay? Let the death of this body have some meaning.”
Then, tears flowing freely, she had given him a brief, but fierce, kiss, which had said, ‘Good-bye, my love, my life!’ far better than mere words could ever have. This had been followed immediately by, “Now, *GO*!”, in her best drill sergeant tone of voice.
From ‘Starbuck’, “Come ON!”, in a similar tone.
The last he ever saw of ‘Boomer’ as he boarded the Cylon transport, was of her taking up a defensive position, to fight a hopeless, one-sided battle against the swarm of ‘Toasters’ already approaching their position, led by a tall blonde. To cover their escape. He had been in a state of emotional shock for the rest of the trip back to ‘Galactica’, where ‘Starbuck’ had presented the Arrow of Apollo to President Laura Roslin prior to surrendering herself to the military authorities for disciplinary action.
********************
For Chief Tyrol, the sad memories and regrets were of a somewhat different sort. They had started right after the witch-hunt that had caused Specialist Third Class Socinus to be unjustly (in the Chief’s view) punished. He had responded to that to that by breaking off the romantic relationship he had had with Jr. Lt. Sharon ‘Boomer’ Valerii.
Some days later, as they worked on a captured Cylon Raider, she had confessed to being a Cylon. He had told her that what she had said wasn’t even funny. She had asked if it would make any difference to him if she could prove that she wasn’t one. He had not responded, and she had left – to have Dr. Gaius Baltar test her, as he later found out. Even though Dr. Baltar had apparently told her that she was Human, things had gone from bad to worse nonetheless.
Eventually, she had shot herself, but survived. The official story had called that a tragic accident caused by a stupid blunder on her part, but the Chief had suspected the truth – that she still suspected that she was, in fact, a Cylon, and couldn’t live with that suspicion any longer, and had thus attempted suicide. He had gone to see her in Sick Bay, to try to be there for her, but she had pulled rank on him and thrown him out – thus making it clear that he had, in fact, lost her. A few hours later, after Lt. Thrace had gone off on what most at the time had considered a wild goose chase, in blatant violation of orders, Commander William Adama had gone to see her about what had turned out to be a suicide mission, to take out a Cylon Base Star orbiting the recently rediscovered planet Kobol. She had left her bed of pain, to undertake the mission – ordering her newly assigned ECO, Junior Lieutenant Margaret ‘Racetrack’ Edmonson, to remain behind. She had never returned, but the Base Star had been destroyed, the remaining Cylon Raiders had bugged out, and the ‘Galactica’ fleet had assumed orbit around Kobol. Soon after, Lt. Thrace had returned, in a Cylon Light Transport, her ‘wild goose chase’ even more successful that any could have hoped for. Not only did she have the artifact the President had sent her after, but accompanying her had been a Lt. Agathon who had been in a state of emotional shock, and who had confirmed that Jr. Lt. Valerii had been, in fact, a Cylon. Cdr. Adama, who had decided to see how matters played out before deciding on how to respond to Pres. Roslin’s suborning of Lt. Thrace, had let the matter drop with a reduction in rank for ‘Starbuck’ to Junior Lieutenant, the promotion of ‘Helo’ to Lieutenant, and a long, heated discussion of the matter with Pres. Roslin, aboard Colonial One, in private.
Even knowing the truth about her, the Chief still blames himself for at least contributing to her death. Surely he could have done more to be there for her, he tells himself repeatedly. Lt. Agathon had at least once tried to tell him that there would have been nothing he could have done to help her in the final analysis, but he still wonders – and blames himself. Just as he knows that Lt. Agathon blames *himself* for the other ‘Boomer’s’ death, with somewhat greater justification.
The Chief had also been upset for a while that Lt. Agathon had been so willing to move in on a woman whom he had had every reason to believe was still romantically involved with the Chief. However, he had gotten over that some time ago, and their (somewhat) shared loss had eventually led them to become friends.
Chapter Two: Dual Arrival
Meanwhile, up in ‘Galactica’s’ Combat Information Center, everything appears to be routine. Then, suddenly, that illusion is burst like a bubble, by Petty Officer 2nd Class Anastasia Dualla.
“DRADES contact, Sector 38, Cherem 232, at extreme range.”
“Identification!”, from Colonel Saul Tigh, Executive Officer of ‘Galactica’.
After a moment, “Cylon, Sir. Looks to be a Light Transport.”
Almost before Dualla can finish her last report, Commander William Adama, Commanding Officer of ‘Galactica’, has issued his orders, which are then broadcast throughout the ship.
“Action Stations! Action Stations! Set Condition One throughout the ship!”
Another tense minute passes before Dualla speaks again.
“Sirs, I’m not picking up any Cylon IFF signals from the transport.” A moment later, “Also, they are not attempting to close with us. Maintaining distance.”
Cdr. Adama sizes up the situation as reported.
“In other words, they want us to come to them.” A moment later, “Dee, launch the alert cap.”
“Aye, aye, Sir.” Then, “Launch the alert cap. I say again, launch the alert cap.”
********************
Down in the Launch Tubes, two Mk. 2 Vipers are prepping for launch. In the pilot’s seats are Captain Lee ‘Apollo’ Adama, with Junior Lieutenant Kara ‘Starbuck’ Thrace covering his wing.
The catapult hooks come up, latch onto the Vipers’ forward landing gear, then fire, shooting the Vipers through matching triangular launch tubes, and into space. Once in space, ‘Apollo’ and ‘Starbuck’ hit their afterburners for maximum acceleration, and head out towards the mysteriously behaving Cylon transport. One thing they find both reassuring and disquieting: a Light Transport is only used to carry urgently needed supplies or VIPs, and since they usually have Raiders to escort them, they themselves carry only minimum defensive armament. What is this one doing out here, unescorted and apparently at the mercy of the Colonial Fleet? Well, they intend to find out, and soon.
********************
A few minutes later, the two Vipers close with the target ship, weapons hot, and their pilots begin to investigate.
“‘Apollo’, ‘Starbuck’.”
“‘Apollo’, aye.”
“Do you see that carbon scoring and those hit points on the outer hull?”
“Aye, ‘Starbuck’, I do. Looks like our Cylon’s been in combat, and recently.”
“The question is, combat with whom? Certainly not us.”
A moment later, the last question is answered, as four Cylon Raiders pop out of hyperspace – and proceed to attack the transport, while seemingly all but ignoring the Vipers for the time being. The transport, for it’s part, is trying to defend itself as best it can – something it had not been doing earlier, when only the Vipers had been present.
A moment later, they hear a voice out of their long range wireless.
“Alert cap, this is ‘Galactica’ actual. You are ordered to engage those Raiders, and get them off that transport!”
‘Aye, aye, Sir! ‘Starbuck’, you heard him!”
The two Vipers immediately attack the Raiders, swiftly destroying two of them (who should have been paying more attention to the near presence of enemy combat forces!). The other two attempt to engage, but are soon defeated and destroyed, leaving only the transport.
Then, the transport begins to move towards ‘Galactica’ and the Fleet, at a speed far too slow for an attack, and a course and heading far too straightforward to indicate any attempt to evade or elude the Vipers, who move to pursue.
“‘Apollo’, ‘Starbuck’. This reminds me of when ‘Helo’ and I got back from Caprica a few weeks ago.”
“Tell me about it!”
Then, much to their surprise, they pick up a wireless broadcast coming from the transport, on all Colonial military frequencies. The voice that speaks is feminine, and all too familiar to both ‘Apollo’ and ‘Starbuck.’
“‘Galactica’, transport. Thanks for the assist.” Then, a moment later, “Request permission to come aboard.”
That last request, coming as it does from Cylons, provides a real shock to all who hear it. The apparent identity of the speaker is an even bigger shock.
“‘Apollo’, ‘Starbuck’. Did you recognize that voice, Lee?”
“I certainly did!” Then, “‘Boomer’, ‘Apollo’.”
“‘Boomer’ here.”
“Please explain.”
Knowing that ‘Apollo’ wants an explanation of this whole situation, ‘Boomer' replies, “It’s a long story, ‘Apollo’. The short version is that we’re here to request political asylum. Both of us.”
Before Lee Adama can respond to that, “‘Apollo’, ‘Galactica’ actual. Bring the transport into the port landing bay. I’ll have a Security Team there with me, to meet the Cylons.”
“Aye, aye, Sir.”
The three vessels assume formation, with the Cylon Transport in the middle, and the two Vipers riding shotgun, one on each side. About halfway back, some more Vipers meet them, and take up positions such that the Cylon ship is now completely surrounded.
The ships land in the port landing bay, the Cylon Transport first, with a standard regulation landing. Then, the Vipers land, all but the alert cap, which commences it’s patrol around the Fleet.
The landing ramp comes down soon after, and two Cylons emerge from the ship – both of them exact duplicates of one-time Junior Lieutenant Sharon ‘Boomer’ Valerii, and both in Colonial issue flight suits! Soon, both are out on the deck of ‘Galactica’, walking forward slowly and cautiously.
“That’s far enough!”, from Cdr. Adama, as a veritable forest of guns come up, to cover them. The two ‘Boomers’ stop in their tracks, and slowly place their hands on top of their heads.
Adama turns to Sergeant Joyce Hadrian, the ship’s Master-at-Arms, who is in charge of the Security Team.
“Take them to the Brig, and see that they are treated decently for now.” Then, “In fact, I will be holding you personally responsible for their well being. Is that understood?”
“Yes, Sir.”, followed by a hand gesture of ‘this way’. The Cylons, now surrounded by the security Team, comply with said signal. Adama turns to the Hangar Bay crew.
“And I want this ship gone over with a fine tooth comb, as well, as soon as you’ve put it with the other one.”
“Aye, aye, Sir!”, from Chief Tyrol, who had been stunned to see *two* of the woman he still loved emerge from the Cylon ship – both of them looking as breathtakingly lovely (to him, at least) as ever.
Then, Adama returns to the CIC, brooding over the situation.
‘And now, I’ll have to decide who will handle the interrogation of these two Cylons.’
When he gets back up to the CIC, Lieutenant Felix Gaeta speaks up.
“Commander, President Roslin for you, on line one.”
“Thanks.”
Picking up the receiver, he hits the appropriate button.
“Adama here. How may I help you, Madame President?”
A moment passes, before, “That is correct. The two Cylons surrendered themselves voluntarily, claiming to desire political asylum.”
Yet another moment passes, before, “Very well, Madame President. Adama out.” With that, he hangs up the receiver, and turns to PO2 Dualla.
“Dee, have Lieutenant Agathon and Chief Tyrol report to me in my office, immediately.”
“Aye, aye, Sir.” She then carries out that order immediately, as Adama heads into his office. Just before going in, he turns to Col. Tigh.
“Colonel, when Lt. Agathon and Chief Tyrol get here, send them in immediately. Otherwise, I do not want to be disturbed unless it’s an emergency.”
“Yes, Sir.”
With that, Cdr. Adama disappears into his office
Chapter Three: Interrogation
A few minutes later, Lt. Agathon and Chief Tyrol arrive. The Lieutenant knocks, three times.
“Yes?!”, from CDR. Adama.
“Lt. Agathon and Chief Tyrol, reporting as ordered, Sir.”
“Enter.”
Both men do so, closing the door behind them, and saluting upon coming up to the Commander’s desk.
“Have a seat, gentlemen.”
When they have done so, “I’m sure you both know about the two Cylons who arrived on board about an hour ago, and are presently in the Brig.”
Both nod, and the Commander continues.
“I have not arrived at this decision easily or lightly. I am quite cognizant of the many reasons why I should *not* assign you this duty. However, when all is said and done, I am left with one inescapable fact: you two are the individuals with the most familiarity with this particular model.
“Therefore, I am reluctantly assigning you two the job of interrogating them. Each of you will interrogate one of the two, separately from the other. Find out the *truth* about why they came here of their own free will, and are asking for political asylum. Also, any military information you can obtain will be most appreciated. We will be monitoring and recording both interrogations.
“You must be especially on guard against becoming too emotionally involved with them. In fact, they may try to exploit that tendency. Do *NOT* allow that to happen – is that understood?”
“Yes, *SIR*!”, from both, in unison.
“In addition, I am under orders from the President to not allow you the use of the methods employed by Jr. Lt. Thrace against our last Cylon prisoner.”
Both men shudder at the thought of such methods being used against these two particular Cylons.
“Not that we would even think of doing so, Sir – or allow anyone else to do so, for that matter.”, from Lt. Agathon. Chief Tyrol nods in wholehearted agreement with that statement.
“Very well, then. Dismissed, and good luck.”
Both men come to attention, salute, wheel about, and depart the office.
********************
When the two arrive at ‘Galactica’s’ Brig, they first seek out Sgt. Hadrian, and request that the two prisoners be placed in separate interrogation rooms. When this is done, each enters one interrogation room – to confront a Cylon who looks just like the one who left a scar on each of their hearts.
********************
Lt. Agathon finds his interrogation subject sitting quietly at the table, across from a chair that remains empty. A pitcher of water, and one glass, are on the table, but she has touched neither.
“Sergeant, please see to it that a second glass is delivered to each of us, ASAP.”
“Aye, aye, Sir.”
He then has a seat in the other chair, and the Cylon sitting opposite him speaks.
“Thanks, Lieutenant.”, with a warm smile.
“You’re welcome.”, as the glass is delivered. Then, after pouring a glass of water for each of them, he begins.
“I’ve been instructed to find out, primarily, why you chose to come here of your own free will, apparently seeking political asylum.”
He very quickly learns that this copy of Sharon Valerii is more than willing to answer that question, truthfully, with a tale that both breaks his heart, and turns his stomach, but which somehow doesn’t surprise him in the least.
“I’m sure that you have already been briefed concerning the fact that when a particular Cylon dies, his or her consciousness transfers to others of the same model.”
He nods, which she takes as a signal to go on.
“Well, when the two of us who helped you, and ‘Galactica’, respectively, died in the process, there was an attempt to prevent the transference from happening in their case. The attempt was not entirely successful. Two others of our model did receive the memories of those two, and a lot of other important data, but much *was* lost as a result.
“Unfortunately, that partial failure to cut off two of our sisters led the Cylons to concoct a plan as horrific as what was done to your worlds. It was decided to completely exterminate our entire model series, so as to punish the actions of two individuals.
“My sister and I managed to obtain the ship which your people are now undoubtedly taking apart, slipped offworld, and managed to jump before the pursuing Raiders could destroy us. We wandered, trying to decide where to go.
“Finally, we concluded that there was quite literally no other place for us to go, especially with the Cylon Fleet closing in on us – what of it could be spared from looking for your Fleet, that is.”
Lt. Agathon asks, “So, what of the others of your model series?”
“As far as we know, they’re all dead. Murdered.”
Just then, they hear from the other interrogation room, the other Sharon Valerii saying, “My people?!”, in a tone of voice that indicates that she considers those two words to be no more than a cruel joke. Then, “Aside from my sister in the other room, I *HAVE* NO PEOPLE!”
Then, the Sharon to whom Lt. Agathon is speaking says, “Aside from her, neither do I. Not any more.”, more quietly, but with a voice full of bitterness. “Though after what happened to your people and your worlds, I guess we should have seen it coming.”
********************
In another room, Cdr. Adama is indeed monitoring both interrogations. His reaction when he hears the reason they placed themselves into the hands of his mortal enemies, as told by both Cylons, is, “My Gods!” Then, ‘The one with Lt. Agathon is right. After what happened to us, something like this *should* have been anticipated.’
The topic of interrogation now turns to information of possible military utility. Here, the two Sharons are freely and readily forthcoming with whatever military or other requested information they do possess, though they warn their captors that they may not know all that much that would interest the Colonial Fleet. No question is refused or turned away. Instead, all questions are either answered directly, of if the correct answer is unknown to them, they admit that fact. In this manner, the Colonial Fleet obtains a considerable amount of military and other intelligence. Whenever they test what they learn against what they already know, the new intel holds up.
Also discussed is the matter of the various Cylon models. Some photographs are shown to each of them, and they correctly identify both Aaron Doral and Leoben Conroy. At one point, the one being interrogated by Chief Tyrol is shown a photograph of one ‘Ms. Shelley Godfrey’, and her eyes go hard with hate – a hate that seems to radiate off of her entire body, and seems to fuel the sudden rage that now comes over her.
“Oh, yeah, that one’s a Cylon, all right!” Then, in an even more dangerous tone of voice, “You mean to tell me that frakking bitch was *here*?!”
“Some weeks ago. So you do positively ID her as a Cylon?”
“You’ve got that right! In fact, others of that model instigated the purge against my model series, and I would bet that some of them also played a prominent role in preparing the way for the destruction of the Colonies! And if I *ever* see one of that model again, I will personally wring her frakking *NECK*!”
********************
At the conclusion of the interrogation, several hours later, Lt. Agathon stands, which prompts the Cylon sitting opposite him to do likewise.
“Ma’am, it’s been a pleasure talking with you. Thanks for being so cooperative.”
“You’re welcome, Lieutenant. And the pleasure was mine.”, as they shake hands.
“And I’m sure a decision will soon be reached in you and your sister’s case.”
“Even if your people do end up shoving us out an airlock, it would at least be better than dying at the hands of the other Cylons, as death at your hands could at least be justified.”
The other Sharon, who is now in sight, and hears that last sentence, nods in agreement to that sentiment. They are then escorted back to their cell, as their interrogators leave, to file their reports.
Chapter Four: Presidential Decision
That evening, as the two Sharons are eating a fine meal, ordered for them by Cdr.Adama personally, he is sitting down to dinner with President Laura Roslin, aboard Colonial One. Also in attendance are Lt. Agathon and Chief Tyrol. As they eat, the President turns to the Lieutenant and Chief.
“So, gentlemen, your impressions?”
Lt. Agathon speaks first.
“Madame President, we did our best to maintain our objectivity and perspective, and even some degree of skepticism. Still, their answers did bear the ring of truth, especially their anger against what had been their people.”
After a moment, “I agree, Madame President.”, from Cdr.Adama. “As I listened, looking for any evidence of deception on their part, and for any attempt on their part to exploit any tendency towards emotional involvement on the part of the interrogators, I discerned no such evidence or attempt whatsoever. What I did discern was ample hatred and bitterness towards an enemy whom they now apparently hate as much as we do. Perhaps even a recognition on their parts that what the Cylons did to the Colonies was wrong, and a desire to do what little they can to make up for that wrong.” Then, “Please listen to this.”, as he starts a recording of relevant excerpts of the interrogations.
Over the next hour, Pres. Roslin is exposed to the full range of emotions from the two Cylons that one would expect from the survivors of a holocaust. In fact, it becomes clear to the President that these Cylons have a much higher opinion of the surviving Colonials (with whom they seem to feel they now have much in common) than they do of their former people – and that appears to be especially true where their two interrogators are concerned.
At the conclusion of the excerpts, the President addresses the Lieutenant and Chief.
“Gentlemen, judging from their reactions to the two of you especially, I would guess that these two are the ones to receive the partial transfers of consciousness which they referred to. I detected in their manner some hints of love remembered, combined with a degree of objectivity one would not expect from a former lover.”
“As did I.”, from Cdr. Adama.
After a moment, the President speaks again.
“I should like to speak with these two Cylons. Tomorrow, here aboard Colonial One.”
“Very well, as promised earlier today.”, from Cdr. Adama.
Adama now hits a button, with the President’s permission. They now have a feed into the Brig Cell occupied by the two Cylon defectors.
“So, Sister, what was it like seeing him? Being alone with him?”
“It’s hard to describe. A part of my heart longed to reach out to him, and another part remembered the hurts that were both inflicted and suffered, and yet, it was as if those feelings were properly someone else’s.” A moment later, “Given half a chance, I could very easily come to love him myself, I do believe.”
“I know. I had the same reaction to mine. He was everything I remembered, and could have hoped for.”
“Yeah, there’s no question in my mind that the other two of our model, whose consciousnesses we partially inherited, had excellent taste in Human males.”
‘Same here.”
Those words stab right at Lt. Agathon’s and Chief Tyrol’s hearts. They likewise feel that they, too, could just as easily come to love these two women who remind them so much of their lost loves, in so many ways – if given half a chance. That, however, will be up to the President, at least in part.
********************
The next day, after donning new clothes provided to them by the Brig Staff, the two Sharons are escorted to a shuttle by their interrogators of the previous day. Even before they reach the shuttle, they have already paired off with their escorts – one with Lt. Agathon, the other with Chief Tyrol, and are engaged in lively conversations with them. It is clear to all who see them that the foursome are quite comfortable with one another – far more comfortable than one might expect when two of the four are Cylons.
Once they board the shuttle, and it launches, both men get the feeling that their respective charges would like to… hold hands with them? More?
Then, one of them speaks up.
“Lieutenant, or can I call you ‘Karl’ or ‘Helo’?”
“‘Helo’ will do for now.”
“Your President may well order that we be spaced. Before that happens, just ones…”, as she leans over, to kiss him quite tenderly.
Chief Tyrol barely has time to realize what is happening when he finds himself on the receiving end of an equally tender kiss.
Both kisses end when they feel the slight jolt of the shuttle docking with Colonial One. Then, Chief Tyrol’s charge says, “Thank you.” The other one says, “From both of us.”
When the four debark from the shuttle, they have to remind themselves not to hold hands. Before long, they are escorted into President Roslin’s Office, where she already awaits their arrival.
“Ladies, please be seated.” Then, “Gentlemen, you, too. I believe that this will concern you, too.”
After all are seated, the President continues.
“As you can imagine, I have been giving a lot of thought to the ramifications arising from your coming here, and reaching a decision. Normally, our standard procedure for known Cylons would be a one way trip out the nearest airlock. However, based on the information I have at present, I do not believe that course of action would be at all appropriate at this time.”
She is answered with four sighs of relief.
“Nor will we keep you locked up in the Brig. However, you must understand that, in light of events that are still all too recent, we cannot exactly trust you, either.”
One of the Sharons says, “We would have been greatly surprised if you had trusted us at all, for the reasons you just hinted at.”
“Thanks for understanding.” Then, “Therefore, you are to be fitted with subcutaneous transponders, which are individually coded for each of you. That way, ‘Galactica’ Security will be able to monitor your movements at all times. You will be assigned quarters aboard ‘Galactica’, as I and Cdr. Adama both feel that would be the safest place for you at present, given the degree of hard feelings amongst our civilian population. For the same reason, you would be well advised to not leave ‘Galactica’unescorted, though I suspect that you should have no trouble finding someone to escort you on such outings.”, with a knowing smile. Then, “As to the matter of names,…”
“Madame President, we’ve been giving that some thought ourselves, since if we’re going to try to fit in amongst your people, we can’t both be called ‘Sharon’.”
“Yes, that is correct.”
“So, if you could access your ‘Junior Lieutenant Sharon Valerii’s’ Service Record, it should include her full name.”
“As a matter of fact, I have it right here.”, as Pres. Roslin produces a piece of paper. “It was ‘Sharon Tabitha Valerii.”
‘As to the question of which one changes,…”
The President then takes out two other slips of paper, writes one of the names on each piece, folds them, puts them in an otherwise empty coffee mug, covers it with her hand, and shakes it. She then extends the mug to the two women. Each one draws out a slip of paper. The one with Chief Tyrol opens hers.
“Sharon.”
Then, the one with Lt. Agathon does likewise.
“Tabitha.” A moment later, as if getting used to it, “Tabitha Valerii.”
Now, two med techs approach, with hypos. Sharon and Tabitha roll up their right sleeves, and hold out their right arms.
“This will sting for a moment.”, as the transponders are administered.
Then, Pres. Roslin has one more question.
“Do either of you have any idea of *why* the Cylons broke the armistice after over forty years?”
“It had to do with … Cylon religious beliefs.”, from Sharon.
“How so?”
“It was the Cylon belief that they were created by the One True God, perhaps using Humans as His instrument for doing so. God then endowed us with souls at some point. The reason for this being done by God was apparently that Humans were supposed to have fallen so far from His Grace as to be beyond any hope of redemption, and the Cylons were to be His instrument of Judgment and Retribution.”
‘I see.” Then, “You don’t seem too sure of those beliefs any more.”
‘After what happened to our model series, we’re not sure of anything concerning such matters any more. However, if worshipping whatever gods your people believe in will help us fit in, we’ll be glad to do so.”
“Thank you. I hope you have a smooth trip back over to ‘Galactica’.”
“Thank you, Madame President.”
As they return to the shuttle for the ride back to ‘Galactica’, Sharon Valerii and Chief Tyrol are holding hands, as are Tabitha Valerii and Lt. Agathon. The two couples are also sharing warm smiles.
“You know, Galen, that went a lot better than either I or Tabitha could have ever hoped for.”
“The way you two kissed us on the way over, we sort of got an idea of what you were expecting.”
That elicits a playful elbow in the side from Sharon.
“Any comments from you, ‘Helo’?”, from Tabitha.
“Just that when we get to your new quarters, and you’re settled in, I think we should break out a couple of bottles of ambrosia to celebrate.”
“I fully agree.”, with a warm smile.
********************
Back aboard ‘Galactica’, they are assigned their new quarters, issued several changes of civilian clothing, sized for them, and also name tags, with their new names on them, and given a list of rules they are to adhere to, which includes the areas of the ship which will be off limits to them. They then inquire as to what jobs they might be assigned.
‘After all, we can’t just sit around here while ‘Helo’ and Galen are on duty. Also, we will need to earn our keep around here.”
“We’ll decide on that in the next day or so, with some input from you, of course.”, from Cdr. Adama.
“Thanks, Commander.”
‘And by the way, I believe that, in the sense that matters most, these are now yours.”, as he hands each of them a small box. Inside each box is a medal – the Colonial Cluster, First Class.
‘These were awarded posthumously to your predecessors some weeks ago, for demonstrating courage and gallantry significantly above the call of duty, in the face of hostile enemy forces, saving other people’s lives at the cost of their own. The specifics are recorded therein , too. Since you are the nearest thing to ‘next of kin’, please accept them with amply justified pride.”
After a stunned moment, “Th-Thank you, Commander.” from Sharon.
Tabitha follows up with, “I sincerely hope we can live up to their example.”
“I’m sure you will.” Then, “Good day, ladies.”
The Commander departs. The two men then congratulate their new girlfriends, before getting to work helping them unpack and set up their new quarters.
********************
About that same time, the President holds a press conference, concerning the new arrivals. She begins with an official announcement.
“Ladies and gentlemen of the press, I am sure that by now you have all heard about the two Cylons who arrived aboard ‘Galactica’ yesterday, and surrendered themselves to the authorities aboard said ship. After a military interrogation which proved to be more of a military debriefing, in which the two were surprisingly cooperative and forthcoming, I had a chance to speak with them myself earlier today.
“The reason why they came amongst us reads almost like a repeat of the holocaust which forced us to initiate our exodus across the stars. The Cylons condemned their entire model series to death in much the same way they did us, and these two were indeed fortunate to escape, and to make it all the way here.
Why did the Cylons do this to one of their own model series? Because while that model series had begun as Cylons, I believe that, based on what I saw and heard yesterday and today, their hearts were becoming Human. Specifically, the two individuals who came amongst us yesterday are well on their way to become fully Human, not in terms of origins or physical makeup, but where it really matters – in here.” (Pres. Roslin touches the part of her body which is slowly killing her.)
“Therefore, Cdr. Adama and I have agreed that, with certain conditions, they should be welcomed amongst us as fellow refugees from the cruelty and oppression of the Cylons. Fellow travelers seeking out a new and better future, across the stars.
“I will now take questions.”
********************
Later that evening, in the quarters now occupied by what some are already calling the Valerii Sisters, the ambrosia, and the laughter, flow freely. But then, about an hour after taps, the guys have to return to their berthing spaces. The ‘Good nights.’ and the ‘See you tomorrows.’ ere brief, as are the kisses goodnight. Then, the two Cylons prepare to spend the night studying Human ways, so as to make the task if fitting in a little easier, while the guys head out, for a good night’s sleep.
Chapter Five: Settling In
Some days later, Cdr.Adama keeps his promise to the Valerii Sisters, to find them some sort of employment, so they can occupy their time and earn their keep. Actually, since Dr. Gaius Baltar is now the Vice President of the Colonial Fleet’s civilian side, second only to Pres. Roslin in that particular chain of command, there is nobody to run and maintain the Cylon Detector. The obvious choices, once they have been cleared for access, are the Valerii Sisters, since there is no question that they *are* Cylons, but are proving to be as trustworthy as any Cylons can be. They could alternate shifts, and between that and their stamina, could keep the Detector operational 24/7. As to the question of their honesty in reporting the results for each person tested, Sharon has already told Tabitha about a bad memory she has from her predecessor, of having tested positive but being lied to about it – and the pain that had resulted.
“That indescribable *worm*!”, had been Tabitha’s reaction. Then, “And now he’s our Vice President?! What is wrong with these people, that they would put someone like him so close to the top?!”
When they put that question to Chief Tyrol, they get an earful about ‘the other guy’, one Tom Zarek. When they hear that name, Sharon immediately understands.
“So, quite simply, Gaius Baltar was the lesser of two evils, compared to that murdering terrorist.”
All in all, any and all threats as to what would happen to them if any results are falsified prove completely unnecessary, as both Cylons are sickened by the thought. They *want* the unknown Cylons to be exposed and dealt with as much as anyone else in the Colonial Fleet.
********************
Speaking of the devil, one day soon after that, Sharon runs into Dr. Baltar.
“Good morning, Ms. Valerii.”
“Hello, Dr. Baltar.”, in a tone of voice that could freeze a sun. A tone that is reinforced by the hardness and hostility in her eyes.
“Might I inquire as to the nature of your apparent dislike for me?”
“I have learned from a source who I consider to be quite reliable that among other things, you are a liar, and quite probably a sexual predator. Therefore, my sister and I would greatly appreciate it if you would just stay away from us.”
As a discomfited Dr. Baltar turns and leaves, he hears another female voice, in his head.
“Well, the little traitor really told you, didn’t she?”
He turns, to see an all too familiar tall, slender, quite attractive blonde walking next to him, dressed for a hot date, as usual. A woman only he can see or hear.
“I could really care less about Sharon Valerii’s opinion of me. Or Tabitha Valerii’s either, for that matter.”
“True, Gaius, she and her sister are less than nothing, in the larger scheme of things. However, they can be quite annoying. I have certainly found them to be so, on numerous occasions, even before they betrayed our people, not just once, but twice.” Then, “And speaking of betrayal…”, as she kisses his ear.
“That is something I would dearly love to forget!”, in an angry whisper.
“I know you would, but you never will.”
With that, the blonde apparition disappears from sight.
********************
Weeks pass. The two are seen, usually separate nowadays, but just as usually in the company of either Lt. Agathon or Chief Tyrol. It escapes nobody’s notice that the two couples are becoming ever closer. That they have apparently come to consider that the present situation presents each couple with a second chance to ‘get it right’.
Even Jr. Lt. Kara ‘Starbuck’ Thrace picks up on that idea, as she discusses it one evening with Lt. Agathon, over drinks, in the onboard Officers’ Club. Tabitha is in the restroom at the time, as is Jr. Lt. Thrace’s date that night, Capt. Lee ‘Apollo’ Adama. Both women are dressed appropriately for a double date, as are the guys.
“‘Helo’, I’ve noticed that you and Tabitha are getting on quite well nowadays.”
“It’s that obvious, huh? Well, she’s certainly not anything even remotely like your standard issue Toa-.. Cylon.”
“No, she a lot more like the Sharon who helped us back on Caprica, which is one reason I do hope things work out for you two this time.” Then, “Remember when you and I used to believe that Cylons were completely incapable of complex emotions like love?”
“Well, the Sharon back on Caprica certainly made a believer out of me.”, with a voice still full of regret.
“Me, too. Which brings me to something I’ve been wanting to talk to you about for the last few days.
“I brought up that old belief because I don’t want to see her heart broken, due to two considerations. First off, if that does happen, she and her sister may well start wondering if *Humans* are truly capable of said emotions, and I don’t ever want to see that happen – which leads me to the other item.” After a moment, “If you break her heart, I’ll break your head.”, in a tone of voice which, like the look on her face, makes it clear that Jr. Lt. Thrace means business.
“Lieutenant Thrace,… Kara,… if I’m *ever* stupid enough to frak things up that badly again, you would be better advised to take my head apart and run a diagnostic – to find out what’s wrong.”
Just then, their respective dates return from their pit stops. Tabitha speaks up as she and Lee resume their seats.
“Okay, what have you two been getting into while we’ve been gone?”, in a tone that indicates that she’s just kidding around.
“Kara replies with, “I was just warning your boyfriend here not to break your heart, or he’d have to answer to me.”
The look on Lee’s face says, ‘Uh-oh!’, as Tabitha takes Karl’s hand in hers, and replies.
“Lt. Thrace, I don’t think we have anything to worry about in that regard. This guy’s still so eaten up with remorse over his part in what happened to my predecessor back on Caprica that if he were to even *think* he had hurt me… Well, let’s not go there, okay?” The look on Tabitha’s face makes it clear that she’s completely certain of her facts.
********************
Meanwhile, in what had been Dr. Baltar’s lab, Sharon has two visitors: Chief Tyrol, and a pre-teen boy nicknamed ‘Boxey’. The kid still seems to be slightly leery of this woman who looks so much like his old buddy ‘Boomer’. However, Sharon is much more understanding of that situation than she suspects the Chief is.
“Galen, Boxey’s been through more kinds of Hell than a kid his age should *ever* have to go through, thanks to ‘those people’, and has now found out the truth about his rescuer – and thus about me. Just cut him a little slack, okay?”, as she reaches over to ruffle Boxey’s hair affectionately. He allows this, though he still seems a little uncomfortable. Then, she speaks to Boxey.
“Don’t you think it’s getting a little late, young man? I believe you have class tomorrow - *and* homework to finish up tonight.”
“Oh, all right! Goodnight, Sharon, Chief.”, as he leaves.
“Goodnight, Boxey.”, from both adults.
A moment later, “Yeah, Sharon, you’re right. He is a good kid, and I’ve noticed that he’s gotten a bit better about minding you of late.”
“Well, it makes things a lot easier that the entire Air Wing and Hangar Bay crew have taken him under their wing.”, as she puts her arms around the Chief.
“And that’s not the only thing that’s gotten easier for us. Since you’re not eligible for military service, the regulation that finally forced me and your predecessor to break up no longer applies.”
“And fortunately, Galen, no one has prohibited us from seeing each other on account of my being of Cylon origin.”, as she raises her lips to his.
A few moments later, as their kiss ends, “Or Lt. Agathon and your sister.”
“Probably because Cdr. Adama, not to mention Pres. Roslin, both realize that we’re going to need all the emotional support we can get, in order to fit in around here.”
“Which makes me wonder if alienating Dr.Baltar was such a good idea.”
As he feels her go cold and hard, “Hey, I don’t like him, either, *or* that fact that he lied to your predecessor about her test results. But he *is* the Vice President, and there’s an election coming up in a few months.”
“Then, assuming me and my sister are allowed to vote in that election,*and* assuming that Pres. Roslin doesn’t run for another term, all I can say is that Cdr. Adama’s name had better be on the ballot, or we’re writing it in.”
Just then, “Thanks for the vote of confidence.”
Both turn, and Chief Tyrol snaps to attention upon seeing his CO.
“As you were, Chief. I was just making my rounds.” Then, to Sharon, “How go the latest tests?”
“The results should be on your desk and Pres. Roslin’s in about an hour.”
“Thanks, Ms. Valerii.”
“You’re welcome, Commander.”
The Commander moves on, and Sharon turns back to Galen.
“Now, where were we?”, as she puts her arms around him again.
“Lords of Kobol, *please* don’t let any other Cylons show up tonight!”
Sharon gladly seconds that with, “So say we all!”, as their lips meet again. Now that they finally have a chance at some real happiness, if she and Tabitha *never* see any other Cylons again, it will be soon enough, if not too soon!
A NEW BEGINNING