RPG Silver One

[Rachmaninoff]

Kerstin had just barely finished putting away all of her paints and cleaning up when without warning the door to her quarters opened to admit two people she had never met before. She was too surprised by two armed personal who were obviously wearing some type of body armor somehow entering even though she had not heard a chime or voiced the authorization for the door to open. She relaxed ever so slightly when the woman introduced herself as the Elite Specialist Kiva Salqarian, but her next questions caused Kerstin to freeze, terrified. [I]Ho.. How did she find out? I... I erased the data![/I] But when she wanted to know more and Kerstin hesitated...

"[B]Answer the questions Kerstin.[/B]" Kiva said in a tone that told her she had better do so.

Kerstin looked from her to the man who was with her and then back again as she fought the tears that started to well up in her eyes. [I]Where do I begin?[/I] She wondered, even as she mentally cursed herself for not leaving things alone. Finally she looked down at the floor before answering in a quiet voice.

"[B]I ran the comparison because of this picture,[/B]" Kerstin picked up her portfolio and opened it, getting out the sketch of Anna Landers. She handed it to Kiva who glanced at it.

"[B]Daniel Timbers had a picture of her in an old fashioned locket. When I saw the locket I took it from him without asking and looked at the picture, but he wouldn't tell me who she was and took the locket back.[/B]" Kerstin clasped her hands together, wringing them a bit out of nervousness without realizing that she was doing so.

"[B]Later when Blaine's men came to make sure we had changed into the clothing provided, they scanned both of us and took our personal belongings including his locket even though he tried to stop them.[/B]" This time she didn't bother to stop the few tears that escaped as she remembered what had happened next.

"[B]They made fun of the woman in the picture and then destroyed it. I tried to stop them but all they did was punish me until Daniel interfered and they then instead used the disruptor restraints they had placed on him to torture him.[/B]" Kerstin reached up and wiped the tears away before continuing.

"[B]I wanted to know who the woman was since the official record for Daniel Timbers shows a different person as being his mother and he has no sisters. I thought that perhaps it was a friend or a lost loved one.[/B]" Kerstin looked away again.

"[B]Once I've seen someone, I can recreate a sketch of them from memory, so I drew the picture and searched the public records for her. It pulled up the record of an Anna Landers who was executed for being connected to the Resistance.[/B]" She paused to look back at Kiva and the man who were patiently listening to what she had to say.

"[B]It didn't make any sense that Daniel Timbers would have a picture of Daniel Landers mother on him, especially when the official records indicate that neither one has been in the same sector at the same time. I thought that perhaps they were related and Daniel Timbers was hiding that knowledge.[/B]" Kerstin felt the urge to start crying but held it in.

"[B]After all,[/B]" she said bitterly, "[B]Everyone knows how the family of Resistance members are treated. They executed Anna Landers even though she was not a member. But I didn't expect the comparison to indicate that the chances of them being the same person was 98%.[/B]" Miserable, Kerstin sank to her knees and started to cry.

"[B]I went down to Reflection and confronted Daniel Timbers, but he denied what I found out and when I showed him the picture I drew he simply refused to answer my questions. So I left and came back to the Creator. I haven't spoken to him since.[/B]" She buried her face in her hands.

"[B]So why didn't you tell Stevens?[/B]" Kiva prompted her when she didn't say anything else.

Kerstin lowered her hands and looked up. "[B]I don't know why, I mean, I know I should tell him, but it just seems wrong somehow.[/B]" She choked a bit before continuing. "[B]I just don't understand, after all, you hear that people in the Resistance are fanatical and unrealistic, that they only care about having things done their way. That they don't give a damn about the welfare of anyone else. And yet if Daniel Landers really was so horrible, why did he do what he did when we were kidnapped by Blaine?[/B]"

She continued to cry, "[B]Why did he interfere and keep getting tortured by Blaine's men just to protect me? Why didn't he leave the sector after I confronted him?[/b]" She buried her face in her hands again. "[b]I'm sorry, I know I should have told Stevens, but after what he endured on my behalf, I just couldn't bring myself to do so.[/B]" With that she just continued to cry. [I]Gods, I should have left it alone. [/I]

[CENTER]----------------------------------------[/CENTER]
[B]OCC:[/B] Tag, GuyYouMetOnline

[Aaryanna_Mom]

Daniel was exhausted as he headed towards the port where the [I]Tryst[/I] was docked. He and Williams had spent the entire weekend attending practically every social function there was. Now that more than half of the High Council had been cleared and some of them were even partially back at their duties, some of the usual gatherings had started up again. And though there was a clear edge of uneasiness people still attended them, desperate for things to return to normal. And that very uneasiness made people even more prone to speak out of turn when they should not have. He along with William had learned more secrets and unusual bits of information over the weekend than he would have ever expected. Thought it had meant attending one function after another with little to no rest.

He thought about stopping at the hotel across from the university but changed his mind. If there were any messages there he could access them from the ship and he knew that as tired as he was, if he stopped, he'd be tempted to simply crash there. Something that William had warned him not to do, especially since Kerstin had found out just who he was. If she ever did tell, it would be one of the first places they would look, along with [I]Tryst [/I]that was currently docked at the port. Both places were serving as a decoy instead of a place to operate from. Even his time spent at the [I]Tryst[/I] was brief and no more than was required to maintain the illusion that Daniel Timbers was still on Reflection.

He stifled a yawn as he approached the port, by now William would already be back and on board the [I]Astera [/I]waiting for him once he went to the [I]Tryst[/I] and cleaned up and then changed. It was a simple matter to slip out of the ship where the light surveillance of the area would not pick him up, which was a good thing since those who reviewed the surveillance would wonder why Tedric Kavans was leaving the [I]Tryst[/I] when he had no reason to be there. A few minutes later and Daniel was on board and heading for his quarters. It took him little time to take a quick shower to get cleaned up and the cool water helped him to wake up a bit.

Then, after taking a moment to get dressed he went over to check and see if there were any messages, it was just a habit really, since Martial Law had been put into place they rarely got any messages at all. So when he realized that there actually was one, he was surprised. Daniel sat down at the desk and opened it up but what he read next caused him to freeze. [I]Hell! Kerstin must have talked! But... Who left the message?[/I] He knew that William had many agents here in sector one, the question was, which one sent them the warning? Quickly he contacted William over at the [I]Astera[/I].

"[B]What's so important that you contacted me Daniel? You of all people know better than to use the communications network to contact the [I]Astera[/I].[/B]" William said with disapproval when he answered.

"[B]Check the messages William, we have a problem.[/B]" Daniel said. He waited patiently for William to pull up what he had just read...
[INDENT]You have been compromised.[/INDENT]
"[B]Damn![/B]" William swore. "[B]Stay put, I need to check something real quick before we make a move.[/B]"

"[B]Should I come over there?[/B]" Daniel asked.

William shook his head, "[B]No, until I check something you're better off staying inside the ship. Close the doors and activate the anti-transport door shields, depending on the trouble, you'll want to be ready to leave immediately if need be.[/B]"

"[B]What good will that do? Neither one of us can outrun the [I]Transcendence[/I][/B]" Daniel pointed out even as he entered the commands that sealed the ship and raised the anti-transport shields.

"[B]True, but if it's someone else we can outrun them. It will take time to try and get help from Stevens if it's the local authorities and by then it will be too late, we only need enough time to get clear of the gravitational pull of both planets in order to make the jump to hyperspace.[/B]"

Daniel took a deep breath to steady himself, "[B]All right. But hurry, I'm going to go to the bridge and get this ship ready for an immediate departure.[/B]"

"[B]You do that,[/B]" Williams said. "[B]I'll contact you as soon as I know more, it won't take long.[/B]" And with that he terminated the transmission.

Daniel didn't waste a moment, forgetting that he had yet to finish getting into his disguise as Tedric Kavans, or rather not bothering since if he had been compromised, it wouldn't do him any good. It took him no time at all to get to the bridge of the [I]Tryst[/I] and run through the pre-take off checks. Now, it would only take a matter of seconds to launch the ship and leave. Impatiently he sat down in the pilot's seat and waited for William to contact him.

[Horendithas]

[COLOR="Indigo"][SIZE="1"]When Jared started investigating the officers in question who were commanding many of the battle ships patrolling sector nine, he had been surprised at what he found. They had immediately started requesting extra supplies in less than twenty four hours of the news that the High Council had been arrested. In addition to that there had been massive changes in the command structure, people demoted and others put in their place, many of them for no good reason, or rather those who replaced them were less qualified. Telling Jared that they were replacing them with people that they trusted.

But that didn't answer the question as to who told them to make such preparations or why they thought the issue of Civil War could come up. It took him a while to finally track down what was going on, and even then it took the combined effort of several computer specialists to track down communications as well as getting clearance from Stevens to access highly classified data banks for the military. In the end what he found was chilling. Someone was feeding the officers information indicating that they suspected that either civilians or other factions would move to destroy the families of the High Council there.

It wasn't true of course, at least he didn't think it was true, still, they were simply following orders to prepare for any eventuality. There was only one problem, he had not been able to find out who had been sending them the orders. Whoever it was, they were being very careful to hide who they were. It was cleverly done, if the protocols for shipping hadn't flagged the occurrence over the build up of supplies they would have never known that they were developing a surplus in sector nine.

The only thing Jared didn't know was what the secret was that would drive them to actually fight. They had been at peace for thousands of years, disputes between factions simply did not result in actual fighting on that scale. If Sandra had spoken to them and they had not told her why, it was clear that they had been told to trust no one. It suggested a division among the military that shouldn't exist, at least not at that level. And depending on the information that Crystal found, it would take something pretty damming to convince the rest of the crew serving on the ships to follow the order to attack another battle ship.

Jared wrote up a report and sent it off to both Sandra and Stevens, detailing everything that he had found. Ideally, it would be best to replace everyone who was involved, though realistically, that wasn't possible. Instead it would be best to prepare the rest of the fleet or rather work out a plan of responding if necessary. Still, it made no sense, as far as Jared knew, there was no plans to release whatever Crystal found. So if it didn't get out, why was Erica claiming it would cause Civil War?

As he closed down the terminal from his position on the bridge of the Creator, Jared also issued a few commands to the officers on duty before finally getting up and heading for his quarters. In the end, he got the feeling that Erica was toying with them, he knew perfectly well that her plans as the leader of the Resistance was to force the High Council to free the lesser races. He couldn't help but feel that on some level they were playing right into her plans.

She had told Stevens that he was blind to the dangers of Civil War, but he wondered if she was actually making sure that war did occur. Frustrated Jared put it out of his mind as he entered his quarters and headed for the bathroom to get cleaned up. For now he would take a shower, have a little something for dinner and then, he would finally head over to Kerstin's quarters and find out what the hell was bothering her so much. [/SIZE][/COLOR]

[SunfallE]

[COLOR="goldenrod"]Celestia couldn't help but think about all that had happened the other day. Instead of being taken to work with Matt in the lab, her and Jason had instead been taken to one of the ships in orbit around the home world. Based on what she knew she was positive it was one of the flagships, regular battle ships just didn't have that kind of space. But of all things she would have never expected to be taken to met Erica Kendrick, the former leader of the Resistance. Both her and Jason thought that she had already been executed for her crimes, but apparently not and for whatever reason, it seemed that Stevens had granted a request by Erica to meet her and Jason.

When she had asked her Erica had just laughed and told her it was likely that the fool was hoping she'd talk about something important. But Erica had made a point of keep the conversation to personal matters. You would have thought they were simply getting together to chat about how the other person was doing. But even then, it was quite clear to Celestia how she had managed to lead the Resistance even while being a member of the High Council, Erica was very, intelligent as well as personable. Celestia was sorry that their time was so short, she would have liked to talk to her longer. But Dakar was prompt and came back the moment the hour was up.

Then they had been taken to sickbay where Commander Crystal, the doctor who had modified them was waiting. That part Celestia would have rather forgotten. Crystal was not unkind, but she was as blunt as Celestia remembered, in no time she had gotten out of Celestia what was bothering her. The report she had seen about using genetics on the lesser races to ensure a healthy population. Something that even now still made her a bit sick to think about. And though she felt Crystal meant well, her lecture about stress and worrying over things that she couldn't change had grated on her nerves. There was only one thing she wanted to change, and that was to have her freedom back, along with the rest of the people from Earth and the other races. In the end Crystal had insisted on putting her on something to 'calm her nerves' as she put it and it irked her to no end that she had no choice but to take it.

"[B]Still feeling put out?[/B]" Jason asked her, even as he put his left arm across her shoulders. Startled Celestia turned from staring blankly at the terminal in the lab to look at Jason.

"[B]I'm sorry, I just can't quite thinking about all that happened yesterday.[/B]" She pulled free and went back to working on the program to delete the one's designed to protect the data in the council vaults.

"[B]I know, neither can I. I was certain that Erica was already dead.[/B]" Jason also turned his attention back to the program they were writing, it was almost done. They had already tested it and other than a few glitches which they were fixing right now, it would work.

"[B]They can't kill her,[/B]" Matt spoke up turning to face Celestia and Jason when they looked over to where he was working. Matt grinned sheepishly.

"[B]I guess you guys don't know, but there have been numerous petitions for Erica's release as well as the fact that she's dying anyway, so using the normal methods for extracting information isn't possible.[/B]" He finished.

"[B]You mean torture.[/B]" Celestia said flatly.

Matt looked away uncomfortable, "[B]Uh yeah, you could say that. But still even if they could, a lot of people would object.[/B]"

"[B]How nice of them.[/B]" Celestia said sarcastically. She didn't mean to sound hateful, but she just couldn't seem to help herself.

"[B]Celestia...[/B]" Jason started to say.

"[B]It's alright,[/B]" Matt said, suddenly going very serious on them. "[B]It's true, they'll torture anyone without question to get the information they want. Something I'm sure the two of you are well aware of. Just as I'm sure you're aware of the politics behind doing so to someone who wields a lot of influence and power, and Erica has always been well liked.[/B]"

"[B]Why?[/B]" Celestia asked.

"[B]Because she cares about people, everyone, even the lesser races. Before she became ill she was one of the biggest supporters of increased rights and better conditions for the lesser races. I'm sure you know that they recently decided to do away with breaking up family units right?[/B]"

Both Celestia and Jason nodded, after all that change was the reason they had not been seperated. Otherwise, they would have been forced apart. Something that even though it had not happened yet, still worried both of them a bit.

"[B]Erica is the one who not only proposed that, along with Commander Crystal, but before she was arrested, it had been approved. You see, even though she is quite ill, she still kept working on that to make sure it happened.[/B]" Matt smiled a bit and then continued. "[B]Anyway, I don't know about you two, but I've finished my corrections so lets put them back together and test it.[/B]"

Both Jason and Celestia nodded once again and went back to their work. It would be interesting to finally be done, if this program worked, combined with the hacking one they had already written, they would be able to access the remaining vaults. But in the end, she didn't care. Doing this wouldn't change anything for her or Jason. With a sigh she continued modifying the code.[/COLOR]

[GuyYouMetOnline]

[COLOR=darkslateblue]"Ah, propaganda," Kiva said. "You should know better than to take anything the Council says at face value, Kerstin. Of course they'd claim that their enemies are ruthless, evil people, but that's simply not true. I've met several Resistance members, and they're simply fighting for what they believe to be right. They're really no different than any of us. Sure, there're probably some bad people in the Resistance, but the Empire's got it's fair share of nasties, too."[/COLOR]

[COLOR=#483d8b]"You're not going to arrest me?" Kerstin said.[/COLOR]

[COLOR=#483d8b]"You've done nothing to warrent it. Hell, what you did led us strait to Daniel. I don't think we'd have figured him out otherwise. Sure, it would've been better if you'd told somebody, but you'll be fine, so don't worry about it."[/COLOR]

[COLOR=#483d8b]Kiva turned around and left Kerstin's room, Daego following right behimd her. They went straight to Stevens. "Well?" Stevens said.[/COLOR]

[COLOR=#483d8b]"Kerstin's innocent," Kiva said. "She's not involved with the resistance. She figured Daniel out because Daniel Timbers carried a locket with Daniel Landers' mother's picture in it. When she asked, Daniel said it was his mother. She found no connection between Daniel Timbers and Anna Landers, so she guessed that perhaps Daniel Timbers was related to Daniel Landers and hiding that fact for obvious reasons. So she ran a physical comparison. She then confronted Daniel, who denided being Landers, but of course he would. Kerstin didn't report him because of conflicting emothions resulting from Daniel's actions to protect her when they were being held captive."[/COLOR]

[COLOR=#483d8b]"I see," Stevens said. "And you're certain that's all there is to it?"[/COLOR]

[COLOR=#483d8b]Kiva nodded. "I am. Kerstin still should've reported Daniel, but even though she didn't, if she hadn't found him, I wouldn't have, either. Do you have his location?"[/COLOR]

[COLOR=#483d8b]"Yes. When you informed me that Timbers was Landers, I immediately ordered surveilance on all locations frequented by Timbers. He's currently on board his and William's vessel, the [I]Tryst[/I]. There's been no sigh of William, though."[/COLOR]

[COLOR=#483d8b]"Damn. Well, Daniel's the most wanted individual now, so he has to take priority over William, and the fact that he's on the [I]Tryst[/I] indicates that he's probably going to make a run for it. He knows Kerstin figured him out, remember. Actually, I'm amazed he's still in the sector. We have to assume he'll leave as soon as we can, with or without William. Stevens, I'll need an assult team ready as soon as possible. Load them in an assult transport and send them to the [I]Tryst[/I]. Daego and I can't wait around for the team to be assembled. If the [I]Tryst[/I] is going to leave, we have to make sure that can't happen. Launch the assult transport as soon as the assult team's assembled, then contact us. Daego, let's go."[/COLOR]


[COLOR=#483d8b]"Okay, here we go," Daego said. "Approaching the [I]Tryst[/I]. Targeting the engines- holy shit!" The [I]Tryst[/I] had begun to move.[/COLOR]

[COLOR=#483d8b]""Damn," Kiva said. "Daniel must've just completed preperations. Okay, looks like this could be interesting. Follow the [I]Tryst[/I]. We have to take out its engines before it can jump. Let's do this!"[/COLOR]

[COLOR=#483d8b]The[I] [COLOR=darkslateblue]Tryst[/COLOR][/I][/COLOR][COLOR=darkslateblue]'s defenses were high-quality, but they weren't good enough. Eventually, the [I]Transcendence[/I] scored a missile hit against the [I]Tryst[/I]'s engines. It wasn't enough to disable the vessel, but it slowed it down significantly. Its rear defenses also seemed to have been dmaged, making getting a second hit much easier. Before long, the [I]Tryst[/I] was disabled.[/COLOR]

[COLOR=#483d8b]"Excellent," Kiva said. "All right, target its primary power supply. Don't blow it up, but make sure it can't function. We don't want to let Daniel blow up the [I]Tryst[/I] while we're in it."[/COLOR]

[COLOR=#483d8b]"Got it," Daego said. The primary power supply was targeted and destroyed. It didn't explode, and reparing it would likely be possible given enough time, but that would take quite a while. For all intents and purposes, the [I]Tryst[/I] was dead in the water. The backup generator would power life-support and the engines (if they'd been operational), but not much else. It was now safe to board the vessel, and as if on cue, Stevens contacted Kiva, informing her that the transport had been launched. Kiva contacted it.[/COLOR]

[COLOR=#483d8b]"Okay, dock with the [I]Tryst[/I] and make an entrence. When you've done so, we'll transport to you to begin the boarding operation. Kiva out." She turned to Daego. "Okay, let's suit up. This isn't over yet."[/COLOR]

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

OOC: Tag, Aaryanna_Mom

[Aaryanna_Mom]

Daniel did not have to wait long, within mere minutes the crew was in place and ready to take off when William contacted him. He had hoped that it was just local law enforcement, and yet, somehow he knew it would not be. Which meant that if they could not get free he would have no choice but to destroy the ship. But to do that he still had to get away from Reflection or else the very city could be damaged by a ship exploding within the atmosphere. And that didn't include any of the stations in orbit around each world. He pulled his thoughts back to what William was saying.

"[B]Get clear if you can Daniel, otherwise...[/B]"

"[B]I know dammit![/B]" Daniel snarled. "[B]We have to get clear before we can either jump to hyperspace or destroy the [I]Tryst[/I]. If we get free I'll contact you later.[/B]" He terminated the transmission and finished preparing to take off. Seconds later the ships alarm system went off.

"[B]Sir! The military is targeting the engines![/B]"

"[B]Hell![/B]" Daniel swore even as he bypassed the rest of the procedure for take off, ignoring the damage done to the landing pad they had been on as he brought the engines to full power and took off, initiating evasive maneuvers immediately, heedless of the damage it would cause to the windows of the buildings in the area.

For a minute or two he would have a slight advantage since the military would not be able to fire on a moving ship within the atmosphere least they risk hitting the city by missing his ship. But as he left the surface and entered space he swore even more colorfully. The ship after them was none other than the [I]Transcendence[/I], the one ship he could not outrun. Still, even as he took off at full speed, doing his best to dodge any incoming fire, he also started putting in the codes for destroying the ship. Their extra speed might be enough to give him the time to get clear or at the very least destroy the ship.

[I]Just a little further[/I], he thought as they pulled free of the stations orbiting around Reflection. But the [I]Transcendence[/I] didn't give him the chance as it closed the gap and fired at the engines. He managed to avoid a few shots before the engines took a direct hit, slowing the ship down. A quick glance at the readout showed that their rear defenses had been severely damaged as well.

"[B]Sir![/B]" One of the other officers started to say.

"[B]I know! Divert all remaining power to the rear shields! I need a little more time to initiate the self destruct.[/B]" Daniel started making modifications based on the loss of power, wishing that the [I]Tryst[/I] had some form of weapons, not that they would have seriously hurt the [I]Transcendence[/I], but it would have given them something to think about. Giving him those few seconds that he needed to destroy the ship.

But before he could finish getting ready, the engines took another hit causing the ship to shudder and then start to slow down as the engines died. Daniel held on as he was nearly thrown from his seat and then took a look at the readout. The [I]Tryst[/I] had been disabled. If he didn't hurry... [I]Damn! [/I] Before he could input the final code the [I]Transcendence[/I] fired again, this time taking advantage of the situation to take out their main power supply without causing it to explode.

The ship shuddered again as everything switched to the backup emergency power supply, providing them with nothing more than life support, and far from enough power to self destruct the [I]Tryst[/I]. Daniel tapped into that power to feed it into the sensors as well as to get further reports on the ship. Not only were the engines disabled, but the hull had been severely breached when the power supply had been damaged. Several of the emergency bulkheads had activated, cutting them off from the weapons locker, the escape pods and more importantly, any means to attempt to simply leave the ship without protection. In short, they were trapped, with no way out and no means to kill themselves with.

Daniel looked at the sensors, a military assault transport was approaching quickly. He was not surprised, after all, he was on the top of the most wanted list, it made sense that they wanted him alive. The bounty for his capture was only good if he was alive. Daniel switched the sensors off and fed the power into the main computers instead. Leaving barely enough to keep the life support running. He did the only thing left that he could do, he started a massive deletion routine designed to erase all of the data. Then he did the same with his hand held computer. Finished he looked up to see that the others had done the same and were waiting for him to tell them what to do.

"[B]An assault transport is on it's way. I'm sorry, there's nothing I can do.[/B]" He looked to each of them, despair and depression weighing heavily on him. He knew the risks and it pained him that he could do nothing to save any of the others. Just as it pained him that he would never see Celestia or Jason, or Sara ever again.

As the sound of the assault transport docking with the Tryst was heard, he wondered if he should go and get the locket with his mother's picture in it. But then he simply sat back down at the pilot's seat. There was no point, they wouldn't let him keep it anyway. Seconds later an explosion rocked the ship as the assault team forced their way in. Daniel stood back up and waited, some of the others in the ship might be armed but he was not. If only he had gotten just a tiny bit further, he would have been able to make the jump to hyperspace.

[CENTER]-------------------------------------------------------------[/CENTER]
[B]OOC:[/B] Tag, GuyYouMetOnline

[Aaryanna]

[COLOR="goldenrod"]Dr. Jacobs was starting to get on Crystal's nerves. Enough that she had started avoiding him whenever possible. But any time she was not in the lab, he was talented at finding her, insisting on chatting about normal going ons to eventually leading around to the rumors about Civil War. She has forgotten just how much he annoyed her, but then until recently, Crystal hadn't seen him that much and she had to wonder why he was making such a nuisance of himself. But then she knew, she did know why, after all, considering his tendency to gossip, she potentially had the best information as to what was going on. But Crystal would have thought that after all these years he would have realized that it didn't matter how many times he pestered her or tried to get her to mention something. She simply did not gossip at all. And she most certainly wouldn't discuss details of a top secret research project with someone who didn't have clearance.

Crystal had finished her lunch and was taking a walk in the gardens in the Council center, her thoughts still on the checkup she had given both Celestia and Jason. It had been strange to see both of them again, and at the same time it made her wonder about their treatment of the lesser races. At least in Celestia's case, after all she was only half human. With her father being a Versilan, it just seemed as if they were enslaving their own kind as well. But then that was part of why it was forbidden to mingle with the lesser races. To avoid the obvious complications that would occur as a result. She was about to leave the gardens to head back to the lab when a familiar face made her want to cringe. [I]Why can't that fool find something better to do?[/I]

"[B]Hey Crystal! There you are. I was wondering what you were up to."[/B] Jacobs said with a friendly smile.

[I]I don't want to deal with this.[/I] Crystal thought as he approached. "[B]Jacobs, I don't have time to talk to you right now.[/B]"

"[B]I understand, after all, they are keeping you busy.[/B]"

"[B]No Jacobs,[/B]" Crystal replied as she decided to be blunt. "[B]I am sick of your attempts to pry information out of me just so you can gossip like an old fool.[/B]"

"[B]I'm sorry, Crystal, I don't mean to be a pain.[/B]" He managed to look a bit ashamed of himself, but Crystal was still irritated. "[B]I guess it's just habit. As well as being genuinely concerned about Civil War breaking out. I feel powerless to do anything to make sure nothing like that happens.[/B]"

"[B]You should know by now that gossip won't help anything,[/B]" She admonished him. Wondering why she was even still talking to him at that moment. But then for once Jacobs went all serious on her.

"[B]Its more than that Crystal, I have friends who are distantly related to the Council members who have not been cleared yet. If something really did happen, they'd be affected, and to be frank, that worries me a lot. If war did break out between the factions, anyone with ties to the families of the High Council will end up being a target.[/B]" He looked away. "[B]More than anything I wish I could make sure that won't happen.[/B]"

Crystal sighed a bit, "[B]There's nothing you can do Jacobs. You have to trust that those who took over are doing everything they can to return things back to normal.[/B]" She waited for him to turn back, even though Crystal would have rather left, she could understand the concern. She felt the same way, but then she knew that Erica so far had been correct about everything she had told them. Crystal was worried about what she would find.

Jacobs looked back, "[B]I know, and again, I'm sorry for being such a pain. I promise that I'll stop prying. Just stop avoiding me okay?[/B]" He gave her a lopsided smile and then turned around and left.

Crystal just shook her head and then left for the lab. If he really did keep his word and quit prying, she'd quit avoiding him. But the day that happened... Crystal laughed to herself as she entered the lab. Jacobs would never change. Then as she started checking the first set of results on the unknown genes, all thoughts of Jacobs were forgotten at what she saw.

[I]What the hell? That can't be right! [/I] Crystal read the results again, and then again.[I] No! [/I]She shook her head. [I]That has to be a mistake! [/I] But the more she checked the more she began to wonder, until finally, Crystal prepared the lab to run the test again.[I] I can't possibly tell Stevens the results without double checking it first![/I] It took her several hours to set it up again and then start the tests. Then, she turned and left, heading to the comfort of her quarters on board the [I]Tempest[/I], still rattled by what she had found.[/COLOR]

[Rachmaninoff]

Darren didn't know if he should be concerned or not. Kerstin had not shown up for dinner and though it was unlike her to miss something he wondered if she just needed a little more space to think about whatever was bothering her. He waited for a while, uncertain as to what to do and then he made up his mind to go and check on her. It just wasn't like her to not show up without saying a word. It didn't take Darren long to get to her quarters, she was in the same section as he was after all. But when he pressed the panel to let her know someone was there, no one responded.

He was about to take out his hand held computer to request her location from the system when the door finally opened. Darren stepped inside to find Kerstin sitting on the sofa crying. Alarmed he rushed over to her side, taking a seat next to her. But before he could ask her what was wrong she started saying something about it being her fault.

"[B]What are you talking about Kerstin?[/B]" Darren asked as he grasped her shoulders with his hands, getting her to turn and face him. "[B]What happened?[/B]"

But she wasn't listening, "[B]It's my fault! I should have left it alone. I shouldn't have tried to find out who she was.[/B]"

"[B]Kerstin! Who are you talking about?[/B]" Darren looked at her, wondering if he should call the doctor since it was apparent she wasn't listening to him. [I]What in the world is going on here?[/I] But then Kerstin looked at him as if she finally realized he was there. With a sob she threw herself into his arms and cried even harder. Confused Darren just held her until she calmed down a little and finally pulled away.

"[B]They're going to arrest Daniel,[/B]" She finally explained.

"[B]What? Why?[/B]"

"[B]Because he's really Daniel Landers.[/B]" Kerstin said miserably.

Darren just froze at the name. Daniel Timbers was really Daniel Landers? [I]Hell! [/I] No wonder Kerstin was so upset, but why did she think it was her fault? Surely she knew he was on the top of the most wanted list in the Versilan Empire. Hell, he was the one who had been responsible for what had happened on Earth. He would still be locked up in that tiny room if not for the Elite Specialist Kiva Salqarian. Darren started to speak and then stopped at Kerstin's pained expression.

"[B]I don't understand,[/B]" Darren finally said. "[B]Why is it your fault? He is a member of the Resistance, that's not your fault.[/B]"

But Kerstin just gave him a hurt look. "[B]I don't care if he's a member of the Resistance! Don't you see Darren? If he was really such a bad person why did he help me when Blaine was holding us prisoner?[/B]"

"[B]I don't know, but that still doesn't explain why you think it's your fault they are going to arrest him.[/B]" Darren said, still confused.

Kerstin just gave him an odd look and then told him what she had told Kiva, about the locket and the picture of Anna Landers, finishing with how Kiva had found out and confronted her earlier.

"[B]I see,[/B]" Darren finally said. "[B]I'm sorry Kerstin. I don't know what to say.[/B]"

Kerstin just looked away, "[B]It's not right Darren. I know he's a member of the Resistance, but it's still not right. They executed his mother just because her family was mixed up in the Resistance. They didn't care that she wasn't involved.[/B]"

He didn't have an answer for that; everyone knew what happened to the family of Resistance members. Even if the policy was changing, it couldn't bring back those who had been killed. [I]No wonder she's been avoiding Jared[/I], he thought. After all that Daniel had done to protect her when Blaine was holding them... Darren shook his head, even if he didn't like the guy, once he had been taken to the Resistance's base on Earth, true to his word, nothing had happened to him. He had not been mistreated like Kerstin and Daniel had.

"[B]I'm sorry.[/B]" He said again, not knowing what else to say. Personally he could care less if the guy was caught, but at the same time, after what he did to protect Kerstin. He could see why she was so upset. [I]What a mess.[/I]

[GuyYouMetOnline]

[COLOR=darkslateblue]As the assult team split up to sweep the [I]Tryst[/I], Kiva and Daego, in heavy combat armor, headed straight for the bridge. They didn't know where Daniel would be, but he was probably on the bridge when the assult began, so that was the place to start. But even if he wasn't there, they'd find him eventually. There was nowhere he could run, and with main power down, there was no way for him to open a transport door. He might try to put up a fight, as many of the [I]Tryst[/I]'s crew would undoubtably do, but at this point, his capture was all but certain.[/COLOR]

[COLOR=#483d8b]Daniel was indeed on the bridge. He stood up as Kiva and Daego entered, turning around to face them. Kiva stepped forward. "Well, hello, Daniel. I have to say, this is quite ironic."[/COLOR]

[COLOR=#483d8b]"What's that supposed to mean?" Daniel said.[/COLOR]

[COLOR=#483d8b]"Simply that I am Elite Specialist Kiva Salqarian. I was in charge of the operation against Blaine Uratak. Jared led the team that rescued you and Kerstin, but I was in charge of the overall operation. It's funny, isn't it? I'm responsible for your rescue from Blaine, and here I am capturing you."[/COLOR]

[COLOR=#483d8b]"Just get it over with," Daniel said.[/COLOR]

[COLOR=#483d8b]"Very well," Kiva said. She stunned Daniel, then contacted the assult team's leader. "This is Kiva. Our objective has been secured. We're pulling out. Finish sweeping the ship, then take over and bring it in as a captured vessel. You know the procedure. Kiva out."[/COLOR]


[COLOR=#483d8b]Kiva and Daego returned to the [I]Transcendence[/I]. Daego took the unconcious Daniel and put him in a cell while Kiva informed Stevens of Daniel's capture. "Daego's taking him down to a cell right now," she said. "What are your intentions for him?"[/COLOR]

[COLOR=#483d8b]"I'd appreciate it if you could handle him for now," Stevens said. "We;ve got our hands full over here, plus Crystal's investigating something that Erica claims will lead to civil war."[/COLOR]

[COLOR=#483d8b]"We'll handle Daniel for now, then," Kiva said. "Kiva out." She terminated communications, then leaned back in her chair. [I]This is not good[/I].[/COLOR]

[COLOR=#483d8b]Kiva's position was now in jeopardy. She was in danger of being compromised. Daniel Landers knew that she was an agent for the Resistance, and if anyone got that out of him, she would be in trouble. But she knew what to do. She'd act as though everything was normal, but if it became necessary, she'd run as soon as she could. She actually considered running immediately. She commanded the Empire's most advanced ship, and had one of the Resistance's leaders in captivity onboard her ship. Escaping with those would aid the resistance, but Kiva knew that an agent in her position was too valuable to lose unless there was no other way. So she would remain covert until such time as she was actually compromised. It was risky, but it was a risk she'd known about when she took on the role of an undercover agent within the Empire.[/COLOR]


[COLOR=#483d8b]Daego placed Daniel in a cell, then activated a device on his armon and touched Daniel with it. The device was designed to counteract stunning effects. It almost completely protected the wearer from stunning efects, and using it on an already stunned person would cause that person to come to rapidly, sometimes immediately. It wasn't standard equipment for the military, but it was standard in Specialist armor. And when Daego used it on Daniel, Daniel came to almost immediately. Before he did, though, Daego exited the cell, closed it, and activated the cell's two-way communication.[/COLOR]

[COLOR=#483d8b]"Daniel Landers," Daego said as Daniel got to his feet. "My name is Daego Kelse. You probably don't know who I am, but I was approached by the Resistance five years ago. I was approached because of how similar my views were to those of the Resistance. Yet I declined."[/COLOR]

[COLOR=#483d8b]Daniel decided to respond. "Why?"[/COLOR]

[COLOR=#483d8b]"Because as similar as my views were, the Resistance and I differed enough that I couldn't suport your actions. I believed you were too optomistic, too idealistic. I believed that your goals were not possible to achieve. But now... now I'm not so sure. Our minds are all altered, were altered as part of the standard genetics package. What if I should have joined you? What if my views really do match yours? What if I don't actually think you're too idealistic, if that beliefe was only the result of the alterations?"[/COLOR]

[COLOR=#483d8b]"Why are you telling me this?" Daniel said.[/COLOR]

[COLOR=#483d8b]"Because I want you to believe it. Until I know what's right, I can't jeopardize the Resistance's existance. I don't care what happens to me. I joined the millitary to fight for what i believe, and I've always been ready to give my life if necessary."[/COLOR]

[COLOR=#483d8b]"You would risk your life for my sake? How do I know this is the truth?"[/COLOR]

[COLOR=#483d8b]"Because I already have. Everywhere in this ship is under constant surveilance. Kiva may already know what I've told you. She has taken my side in many things, but she has always been loyal to the Empire. I will do what I can. I expect to die, but I will do what I can." Daego deactivated the communications system and walked away.[/COLOR]

[Horendithas]

[COLOR="Indigo"][SIZE="1"]Now that he had finished his dinner and put everything up as well as checking briefly to see if anything needed his attention, there was no reason why he couldn't go and check on Kerstin to find out why she had been avoiding him. Jared took one last moment to check and make sure she was actually in her quarters and then he put his hand held computer in the small pouch at his side. It took him very little time to get there since she was staying in one of the guest quarters in the Command Quarters section for the Creator. But when he pressed the panel to page her and the door opened, he was surprised to see Darren was there as well. But the very last thing he expected was for Kerstin to turn white and literally get up off the sofa and back away from him, tripping in the process, to land hard on the floor.

"[B]I don't understand![/B]" She cried, "[B]Kiva said I wouldn't be arrested![/B]"

[I]Arrested? What is she talking about?[/I] Jared took a few steps towards Kerstin only to halt when Darren got up and inserted himself between him and Kerstin.

"[B]Don't do it Jared.[/B]" He warned.

"[B]What's the matter with you two?[/B]" Jared asked. "[B]What the hell are you talking about? I came here to find out why you've been avoiding me Kerstin[/B]." But Darren just stayed there stubbornly standing between him and Kerstin. Exasperated Jared pulled out his hand held computer and contacted Stevens.

"[B]What is it Jared?[/B]" Stevens asked when he answered.

"[B]What is going on with Kerstin? I'm at her quarters and she thinks I'm here to arrest her.[/B]" He ignored their sudden intake of breaths and Darren who moved over to help Kerstin stand up and then take a position between them.

"[B]Ah, yes, well that would be because Kerstin figured out that Daniel Timbers was really Daniel Landers and failed to tell anyone.[/B]" Stevens explained. "[B]Kiva is convinced that she has no connection to the resistance and simply failed to tell anyone due to conflicting emotions that resulted from when Daniel protected her from Blaine.[/B]"

"[B]I see,[/B]" Jared said in a cold voice. "[B]So Daniel got away then.[/B]"

"[B]Actually, even though Kerstin confronted Daniel, for whatever reason he stayed in sector one. Though he did try to leave just now, but Kiva has disabled his ship and they're picking him up right now.[/B]"

"[B]Good.[/B]" Jared said. "[B]I guess it seems that Blaine was right about him after all. Anyway, I take it that you will be following Kiva's recommendation then?[/B]"

"[B]I am, after reviewing everything that happened I agree with Kiva. And with the policy change, it's pointless to pursue it further. We've been punishing the innocent long enough. Though feel free to have her explain just how she found out about Daniel. It seems that Daniel's friend William has vanished and I'm sure he too must be a member of the Resistance, any clue we can get as to his whereabouts is important. Now unless you've any other questions, I have work to do. Stevens out.[/B]"

Jared closed his hand held computer and put it away. [I]No wonder she's been avoiding me. Idiot.[/I]

"[B]All right, you heard Stevens, out with it. I expect you to tell me everything you told Kiva.[/B]" Jared folded his arms and waited, but Kerstin was still upset.

"[B]Can't you wait and give her some time to calm down first?[/B]" Darren asked.

"[B]No, she should have told someone the moment she found out.[/B]" He looked directly at Kerstin. "[B]You've had more than enough time to be calm, don't make me force it out of you.[/B]"

"[B]You jackass![/B]" Darren exclaimed. "[B]Gods! Every time I start to think you just might be a decent person after all, you pull something like this![/B]"

Jared ignored Darren as he stalked over angrily and stopped only a few feet away, glaring angrily at him. Inwardly he sighed a bit before responding.

"[B]Decent? It's my duty Darren. I have a responsibility to the soldiers who lost their lives to the attacks on Earth, the very same attack that resulted in you being taken prisoner by the Resistance cell that Daniel commanded. I owe it to them to bring the one responsible for their deaths to justice.[/B]" Jared took a step closer, ignoring how Darren went pale. He started to pull back but Jared didn't let him, catching his left wrist with his right hand.

"[B]Every time I think you start understanding an officers duty you pull some lame emotional stunt like this.[/B]" Jared shook his head. "[B]You heard Stevens, I will not be arresting her, nothing is going to happen, unless she refuses to tell me how she found out. And seeing that she already told Kiva, there's no reason for her not to.[/B]" Jared let go and turned to Kerstin.

"[B]I know,[/B]" She said miserably. "[B]I should have said something.[/B]" And then she told Jared everything she had already told Kiva, answering Jared's questions as well.

"[B]Next time, don't keep something like that to yourself.[/B]" Jared admonished her. Kerstin just nodded. He looked at both of them and sighed a bit. Sometimes civilians were such a pain to deal with. And then since it was obvious that neither one of them wanted to be around him, he left. [/SIZE][/COLOR]

[Aaryanna_Mom]

William could do nothing but watch helplessly as the [I]Tryst[/I] was stopped by the [I]Transcendence[/I] and then boarded by an assault vessel. When it was all said and done, he turned the feed that he had hacked into off and leaned back into the command chair on the bridge of the [I]Astera[/I]. It was supremely ironic in so many ways. And yet supremely frustrating as well. Both him and Daniel had finally gotten the last bit of information that he had been searching for and once he got cleaned up and came over to the [I]Astera[/I], they were going to make the arrangements to leave the sector. But the military had found out and were tracking him, if not for the warning, Daniel would have come over to the [I]Astera [/I]and they would have caught both of them.

It was maddening since they had done all they could do for now and he knew, from what Erica had told him, that Civil War was virtually unavoidable. He had planned on leaving the sector before things broke out. But now, he had a bigger problem, and yet he could do nothing about it. It was unfortunate, but Daniel knew who Kiva was, and it went without saying that Kiva knew about it. It was bad enough to lose Daniel, but to lose Kiva too? Sure she could run if she needed to, hell, she was in the best position to do so. With the [I]Transcendence[/I], no one could stop her. And those that could, wouldn't be able to catch Kiva. But getting someone in that position in the first place was beyond difficult and with the possibility of Civil War, that position would be vital for intelligence.

With a sigh William got up and headed to his quarters. There was nothing he could do and for now he would have to trust Kiva to do something if the opportunity presented itself. Though he seriously doubted that something like that would happen, and Kiva was far to smart to risk compromising herself. William pulled out his hand held computer and went over the last few orders he would need to issue before leaving sector one. If not for the recent fuss with Daniel being captured, he would have taken off immediately. But by now, they would definately be hunting for him as well so it would be better to wait a little bit first, after all, the last thing he wanted to do was put Kiva in the position of having to stop his ship as well.

All he had to do was calmly leave like one always did and simply make the jump to hyperspace the moment he was clear of the gravitational pull of the planets. They would realize what was going on, but of course at that point it would be too late. And as cold as it sounded, even if Stevens had Kiva hand Daniel over for immediate interrogation, or requested that her crew take care of that aspect, getting any information out of him would take time. So even if he stayed another week, the chances of him being compromised were slim. Though he wasn't going to wait that long, doing so would be foolish. No, William would wait a day or two and then he would leave.

[CENTER]***********************[/CENTER]
Daniel felt the urge to laugh, even though the situation was far from funny. He had been so close to being gone from sector one and yet now, here he was, stuck in a cell on the [I]Transcendence[/I]. Sitting on the tiny bed, leaning back against the wall and resisting the urge to bang his head against it. The only question he had was just how sincere Daego Kelse had been about what he said, as well as if it would do any good. And his last comment about Kiva and her loyalty? Gods! If only he knew! But then that was what made her such a good agent, she never shirked from her duty, even when those actions were detrimental to the Resistance.

Even his own capture was proof of that, she could have easily made sure his ship had been destroyed, but instead she followed her orders to the letter. Making sure that he survived the assault so that he could be caught. Daniel started to reach up for his locket as he often did and then halted, letting his hand fall back down to his side as he remembered that he did not have it. Why having Anna's picture had been so important to him, Daniel didn't know. Just as he didn't know for sure how they had figured him out. He was assuming it was due to Kerstin, but he was willing to bet everything that she had not come forward with the information.

No it was more likely that someone like Kiva had found it during their investigation or perhaps it had been Blaine, after all he too had been convinced that Daniel was not who he claimed to be. In the end, how it happened did not matter, he couldn't change it. Now the only thing he could do was try to hold out as long as possible. If Daego Kelse was not able to do anything, then it would be up to him to keep what he knew to himself as long as possible. Though it wouldn't be too hard, he knew from experience that interrogations took time. William would be long gone before they got anything useful out of him. The only thing he dared to hope for was that it was someone besides Jared. More than anything, he did not want to be interrogated by Jared again.

Daniel sighed. Now if only he dared to ask for his locket from the [I]Tryst[/I]. As well as for the chance to see his daughter Celestia and his son-in-law Jason again. But even as he thought about it, he knew he would not ask. Doing so would only give whoever was assigned to interrogating him a glimpse into what was important to him. And if they were anything like Jared, they would exploit that information. Well other than Anna, she was already dead. They couldn't do anything to her anymore.

[SunfallE]

[COLOR="goldenrod"]It was finally time, time to test the programs they had made on the remaining Council data vaults. The one that would bypass the need for the Councilor's personal code as well as the one designed to catch and prevent the deletion routine from running. Celestia was surprised that James had given the go ahead for them to actually try it, but Matt was not. Explaining once again that with twenty members left to be cleared, they were simply seeing if it was possible to avoid using stricter interrogation techniques. A stance that irritated Celestia to no end. After all, they certainly wouldn't have shown her such consideration.

And just as quickly as she got angry, the medicine she was required to take immediately calmed her. Something that also irritated her, it was maddening to have her thoughts racing in circles and yet lack the willpower to do more than feel slightly frustrated. [I]Is this what the modifications would have been like? If they hadn't pulled the plug on that research in sector fourteen?[/I] It was a frightening thought, she hated it. More than anything Celestia hated the disruptor restraints that they still wore as well as the stupid medicine that Commander Crystal had put her on.

She tried and was slightly successful at putting the thoughts aside to focus on the test. Celestia tied her terminal into both Jason's and Matt's and then with a preset signal she activated both routines. Watching it carefully. She kept her hands ready over the terminal, her mind racing with possible problems that they would need to counter, but everything worked like it should, the code was bypassed, the routine to stop the deletion program worked, but more importantly, the final program designed to copy everything and move it to a data vault standing by worked as it should. Several hours later, it was done.

"[B]Well, that went rather well,[/B]" Matt said with a smile. "[B]I know James will be pleased.[/B]" He stood up and stretched. "[B]Just as I know those other jackasses will be less than thrilled to have been outdone by our group.[/B]"

"[B]I don't give a damn what those fools think.[/B]" Celestia said with real irritation. "[B]And I'll leave it at that since I know perfectly well how much my [I]opinion[/I] doesn't matter.[/B]"

Matt just looked at the floor, clearly uncomfortable. "[B]Well, I know its kind of meaningless, considering that nothing is changing for you or the other lesser races. But not all of us think you should be forced to work for the Versilan Empire.[/B]" He stood up and switched the main screen over to the local news. "[B]Anyway, I'll go and inform James of our success, I'm sure he'll want to know immediately.[/B]" Then without another word he left the lab.

"[B]You need to stop doing that.[/B]" Jason said as he put his left arm across Celetia's shoulders. "[B]I know you're frustrated but taking it out on someone who actually does seem to care is pointless.[/B]"

Celestia just sighed, "[B]I know Jason, honestly I do. I just can't seem to help myself lately. The longer we are here the more trapped I feel. It's like I'm being suffocated and slowly dying inside. I've tried to tell myself to let it got, but I can't seem to.[/B]"

"[B]I know, I can tell. It's easier for me though.[/B]" He smiled at her when she looked at him in disbelief. "[B]The thing that matters the most to me is being with you. I can't change anything, I can't remove the disruptor restraints, I can't do anything. But if I can't be with you, then life really would be meaningless. So I tell myself that and it helps.[/B]" Jason could tell that he was confusing her a bit so he simply pulled her close and kissed her on the forehead before pulling back.

"[B]The glass half empty vs half full, eh?[/B]" Celestia leaned back into Jason. "[B]You've always been more hopeful than I am. All I seem to see is never having our own place, never raising our own family, never seeing your sister again.[/B]" She stopped as those thoughts made her feel like crying. Celestia just held onto Jason even tighter.

"[B]Yeah, I know.[/B]" Jason said. "[B]I think of those things as well, it's kind of hard not to.[/B]" He started to say something else and then froze as he realized what the news report was about. [I]What?[/I] He had been tuning it out until he heard the name Daniel Landers. And when he realized just what they were saying... His first instinct was to switch it off, but it was too late. He felt Celestia stiffen and then pull away a bit.

"[B]Oh my God![/B]" She burst into tears. "[B]Not Daniel too![/B]" She started to collapse but Jason caught her. Ignoring his own tears and she sobbed like her heart was breaking. A feeling he understood and shared.

"[B]They'll do to him what they did to Kim.[/B]" She said between sobs. "[B]They'll torture him until they get what they want and then...[/B]" She choked, unable to continue. And she didn't need to, Jason knew what would happen. Once they were done he would be executed just like Kim.

"[B]Hell![/B]" Jason swore as Celestia went limp in his arms. She had literally fainted on him. He was reaching for the terminal to request assistance when Matt returned.

"[B]What's wrong?[/B]" He asked, alarmed by the tears running down Jason's face and Celestia who was unconscious. "[B]What happened?[/B]"

"[B]That's what happened.[/B]" Jason snapped, indicating the news report of Daniel's capture. "[B]You know perfectly well what they'll do to him.[/B]"

"[B]I still don't understand,[/B]" Matt said as he accessed the terminal to request assistance.

"[B]You do know that Celestia is half Versilan right?[/B]" Jason asked.

"[B]Yeah, what of it?[/B]"

"[B]You idiot! Daniel Landers is her father![/B]" Jason ignored Matt's chagrined look and then stood up as a security squad entered the room. He held Celestia close as they approached. "[B]Celestia collapsed, I'd like to take her to sickbay please.[/B]"

He waited while they contacted James and then followed them once they got the go ahead. He ignored Matt's attempts to apologize, for once he felt like Celestia did, to hell with trying to be positive about what he couldn't change. Then he simply focused on Celestia and following the squad as they took them to where the sickbay was located. He just hoped it was only due to stress. Jason didn't like it that they were forcing her to take medicine to keep her calm. With a sigh, when they finally reached the medical wing, he carefully set Celestia down on the bed and took a seat next to her. If only they hadn't seen that news report. Even though he would rather know the truth, sometimes he wished the restriction on them being allowed to see the news had never been lifted. [/COLOR]

[Aaryanna]

[COLOR="goldenrod"]It would still be a few hours until the results of the tests came back. Crystal wasn't even sure why she was doing it again, she was always so careful about preparing the tests, the chances of her messing up were pretty much non-existent. But still... [I]I can't possibly tell Stevens that without double checking. [/I] Waiting for them to be done was frustrating, she didn't dare leave the lab, it would take very little for Jacobs or anyone else to see that she was upset. With a start of surprise she realized that she was pacing back and forth in the lab. [I]I need to calm down. [/I]

But the chime of an incoming transmission didn't give her the chance. When she saw who it was Crystal considered ignoring it, until she saw the location. And once she saw that her curiosity got the better of her. Jacobs did not contact her from the medical wing very often.

"[B]What is it Jacobs?[/B]" She said shortly.

"[B]Celestia collapsed, and though she's not in any danger, I'm concerned that in spite of the medication you put her on she still was stressed enough for something like this to happen. I'd really like it if you could come and take a look, if you can that is.[/B]"

Crystal looked over to the equipment running the tests. [I]Why not?[/I] She thought. It would give her something to do instead of fretting for the next couple of hours. She turned back to Jacobs, who was patiently waiting for her reply.

"[B]Very well, I'll be right over.[/B]" Crystal terminated the transmission and gathered her things. It didn't take her long to get to the medical wing where Jacobs was located and focusing on what had happened with Celestia made it easier for her to calm down. She had barely entered the medical section when Jacobs motioned to her from the main desk.

"[B]Ah Crystal, thank you for coming.[/B]" He handed her a small reader with the chart for Celestia. "[B]As you can see here from the tests we did, she had what appears to be an unusual reaction to the medicine you put her on. It was easy enough to counter, but I'm concerned that the stress levels managed to peak that high even with it in her system.[/B]"

Crystal glanced at the numbers, Jacobs was right, it should not have happened. "[B]Have you given her something to neutralize it?[/B]"

"[B]My aide is doing that right now,[/B]" He motioned towards the room they were in and continued while the headed towards it. "[B]My thoughts is that it's her human side that is causing this, though I'm not sure what triggered it.[/B]"

Crystal just nodded as they entered the room where the aide was finishing up with the treatment. He nodded to Jacobs and then left the room. Crystal took a moment to scan Celestia, noting that the treatment was working and then turned to Jason.

"[B]What happened? What were you and Celestia doing before she collapsed?[/B]" She waited patiently for Jason to answer even as she noticed other things that needed to be addressed.

"[B]We were working on getting in the Council data vaults this morning. Once we finished with one we were taking a small break.[/B]" Jason explained. "[B]Matt, the other researcher left briefly to go and update James on our progress. But before he left he turned the news on as he often does. That's when we heard about Daniel being captured and Celestia got upset. A few minutes later she collapsed.[/B]"
[I]
Daniel? As in Daniel Landers?[/I] Crystal pulled out her hand held computer and checked the updates, sure enough, his capture was listed. He had been caught in sector one no less while attempting to flee the area. Crystal just shook her head sadly, no wonder Celestia was upset. She had meant to check the updates earlier but she forgot.

"[B]I see.[/B]" Crystal finally said. "[B]I'm sorry.[/B]" She pulled up one of her programs as a Commander and located the file. Elite Commander Dakar would not approve but frankly she didn't give a damn. She transmitted the codes to unlock the restraints on both Jason and Celestia and then removed them.

"[B]Uh Crystal,[/B]" Jacobs started to object.

"[B]Shut up Jacobs.[/B]" Crystal snapped. "[B]I'll take full responsibility. For now once she wakes up move them back to their quarters. Both of them need several days off to rest, understand?[/B]"

"[B]Yes.[/B]"

"[B]Good.[/B]" Crystal said, then with a slight nod to Jason she left, only waiting until she was back in the lab to contact Stevens. He was less than thrilled at what she had done but she didn't care.

"[B]One other thing Stevens,[/B]" Crystal said. "[B]What are your plans for Daniel Landers?[/B]"

"[B]For now Kiva and her crew will be taking care of things, the [I]Transcendence[/I] is equipped to handle interrogations. Why do you ask?[/B]"

"[B]Because unless you want Celestia's mind to end up shattered, you'd better reconsider. I've warned you about this before, everyone has their limits Stevens and destroying everything she holds dear will result in her withdrawing into herself.[/B]" Crystal glared at him.

"[B]Crystal, just what are you saying?[/B]"

"[B]What I've always been saying Stevens! That we've got to stop treating our own people as well as those of the lesser races like scum! Why the hell do you think we even have a problem with people forming a resistance? It's because we're too damn stupid to own up to our mistakes and fix them![/B]"

"[B]Whoa Crystal! What's got you so upset?[/B]" Stevens asked, surprised at her outburst.

"[B]You'll find out in a few hours Stevens, and trust me, you will not like it.[/B]" And with that Crystal cut the communication, irritated to no end. Stevens tried to contact her but she refused to answer. [I]That fool will find out soon enough.[/I] Crystal looked over to the equipment, only a little longer and then all hell would break loose. [/COLOR]

[Rachmaninoff]

Darren didn't know what else to do. Even though nothing was going to happen to Kerstin, it still didn't change how upset she was, especially once the news of Daniel's capture became official. He had not expected it to bother her so much and yet, considering what had happened, he could sort of understand, at least a little. The whole thing was irritating and confusing. On the one hand, Daniel was a Commander in the Resistance, he was responsible for what happened at Earth. Including the fact that a fair number of people had died. And yet his actions where Blaine were concerned were consistent with someone who cared about the welfare of others.

And though he wished he had never found out, Darren knew exactly what had happened to Daniel when his father had been found out and his mother executed. Even he would be tempted to join the Resistance if something like that had happened to him. It just made what he was about to do next even harder. Talking to Sandra would not change anything, but it would feel rather strange since part of him did not care what happened and part of him did if only because of Kerstin. With a sigh, Darren pulled his thoughts together and finally pressed the panel to let Sandra know he was outside her quarters. He entered immediately and took the seat across from her desk when she motioned to it.

"[B]I'd ask you why you wished to see me Darren, but Jared already explained what happened the other day. I hope you realize that regardless of what Daniel did on behalf of your sister, that does not change the fact that he has been part of the Resistance for well over a year, if not longer.[/B]"

Darren just looked down at his hands and wondered why he bothered to come. "[B]I know that Sandra, just as I also know the details surrounding how his father was discovered, his mother executed and more than I care to know about his interrogation.[/B]" He looked back up. "[B]I guess I just don't understand why someone who had nothing to do with the resistance was executed in such a horrible manner and why such cruelty was allowed in the first place.[/B]"

"[B]You mean his mother? Yes that is true, she was not connected, she only suspected that Daniel's father was involved. Though we've lightened up on that, or else Kerstin would be in trouble for keeping what she found to herself.[/B]" Sandra held up a hand to silence Darren when he started to speak.

"[B]I can imagine what you are going to say and the answer must be no. Just as we will no longer be so strict with family members or others who are not truly involved, we will not hold people responsible for past interrogations or use what happened to them as a leverage for leniency towards those involved.[/B]"

Darren just sighed, he knew this was what she would say, but still, some tiny part of him wished otherwise.[I] I'm such an idiot. Here I am, attempting to request leniency towards the one responsible for holding me against my will. [/I]

"[B]I guess I just don't understand Sandra. People like Blaine have been getting away with stuff for decades if not centuries and yet until recently, nothing was done to put a stop to him. And yet people like Daniel and other Resistance members who got caught in the middle are instantly punished, even if they are innocent.[/B]" Darren stood up, intent on leaving.

"[B]It's part of why I tried to stay neutral all these years, our government is corrupt and I hate it. Even if I've been able to help change a small part of that with my work as the Shipping Expert, we're still rotten to the core and you know it. If not for the recent changes even you would have been put to death.[/B]"

Sandra stood up as well, walking around the desk until she was but a few feet from Darren. "[B]I'm well aware of that Darren,[/B]" She snapped at him. "[B]Don't you think I'd like to correct past injustices? It's just not that simple! It's hard enough getting people to accept letting someone like myself or Kerstin go free. They are use to punishing others, regardless if they deserve it or not and there are some who object to it.[/B]"

Sandra leaned forward clearly becoming angry, "[B]You can't change how things are done so easily. If I were to try and force the issue and make a cry for leniency, it just won't work. You can't make too many changes at the same time, you have to wait for people to get use to the first change before you toss another one in there, and right now we've got far to many being pushed forward.[/B]"

"[B]I know! I know![/B]" Darren exclaimed, and then he sighed. "[B]I already figured you couldn't do anything, but I had to say something.[/B]" He turned to leave but not before saying one last thing. "[B]Besides, what kind of brother would I be if I didn't try?[/B]"

Whether or not Sandra said anything else, he didn't know. Darren just left her quarters and went back to his own. [I]What a waste of time.[/I] He thought as he fixed himself a drink. Later once he had calmed down a bit, he would go and check on Kerstin.

[GuyYouMetOnline]

[COLOR=darkslateblue]Normally, Kiva would leave dealing with captives entirely to Daego, but this time, she couldn't do that. So when she was finished with Stevens, she accessed surveilance systems in order to view Daego's actions with Daniel. She expected Daego to just leave Daniel in a cell, but what he actually did surprised her. [I]Why's he waking Daniel up?[/I][/COLOR]

[COLOR=#483d8b]It soon became clear what Daego was doing. Kiva'd known he was having doubts about his alegiance, but she was still a bit shocked at what Daego said. [I]He wouldn't actually commit treason, would he? I know he's not happy with some of what the Empire's been doing, but I never thought he'd actually turn traitor. Would he actually do that?[/I][/COLOR]
[I][/I]
[COLOR=#483d8b]Kiva still wasn't sure what to think when Daego returned to the bridge. "I assume that wasn't just for Daniel's benefit," she said.[/COLOR]

[COLOR=#483d8b]"No, it was not," Daniel said. "I cannot allow the Resistance's existance to be jeopardized, not yet. Not when they may be right after all. I don't expect you to agree with me. As I told Daniel, I expect that this decision will cost me my life, but I'm not taking it back. I think you understand, even though you probably don't agree with me."[/COLOR]

[COLOR=#483d8b]Kiva had thought she was finished as an undercover Resistance agent, but now she was beginning to formulate a plan. She was goig to answer Daego, but then the signal sounded for an incomming transmission. The transmission was from Admiral Stevens. "What is it?" Kiva said.[/COLOR]

[COLOR=#483d8b]"I've just received word from Commander Crystal," Stevens said. "She recommends against taking violent action with Daniel Landers. See, we've been making use of Jason and Celestia. As a matter of fact, they've been helping us find a way into the Council databases we don't yet have access codes for. Now, you already know that Celestia is half-Versilan, but what you may not know is that Daniel Landers is actually her father."[/COLOR]

[COLOR=#483d8b]"I see," Kiva said. "All right, then. We'll stil question Daniel, but until further notice, we will not take agressive action."[/COLOR]

[COLOR=#483d8b]"Good. Also, it may be important that Crystal was rather upset when she conteacted. When I asked her why, she said I'd know in a few hours. I think it's about the tests I've been having her run at Erica's suggestion. I don't know what she's found, but if it's as major as Erica claims, then as soon as Crystal double-checks the results and gets them to me, things may get even more hectic than they are now. I advise you to be ready for anything. We're close enough to civil war as it is; if this is really something major, civil war may very well be upon us."[/COLOR]

[COLOR=#483d8b]"I understand," Kiva said. "Kiva out." She turned to Daego. "Well, looks like we won't be interrogating Daniel yet. I'm not sure what to think about you right now, but since you haven't actually done anything yet, I don't have to decide right now. I have no idea what's about to happen, but I think we should take Stevens's advice and be ready for anything."[/COLOR]

[Horendithas]

[COLOR="Indigo"][SIZE="1"][CENTER][IMG]http://img114.imageshack.us/img114/5697/silveronebanner001xi2.jpg[/IMG]
[SIZE=1]Banner by [URL=http://www.otakuboards.com/member.php?userid=19869][COLOR="Indigo"][U][B]Aaryanna[/B][/U][/COLOR][/URL] [/SIZE][/CENTER]
Jared was not surprised to be summoned to a top priority meeting on the Conqueror, he had been expecting it. Even though he was not in the same position as Stevens, Sandra, Dakar, James or Zach. He was the one investigating the building up of supplies in sector nine. But he was certain that the meeting had nothing to do with his investigation, at least not directly, no, it was likely that Crystal had finally finished with the genetic tests. And though Jared had several ideas running through his head, he wasn't quite sure what to expect.

When he arrived everyone else was already there, and once he took a seat next to Sandra, and Stevens had secured the room he began the meeting. Choosing to stand instead of sitting down. Jared knew that it was not good, never had he seen such a grim look on Stevens face before. Not even when he had been required to arrest the High Council. [I]Just what in the world did Crystal find out?[/I] He caught himself starting to lean forward and forced himself to lean back and relax a bit.

"[B]I'm sure I don't have to tell you why you are all here.[/B]" Stevens said grimly. "[B]Crystal has sent me the results of the genetic tests and frankly I find it hard to believe.[/B]" He opened up his hand held computer and entered something that mere seconds later resulted in the terminal built into the table switching on in front of each person.

"[B]Instead of having each of you going [I]what[/I]? every few seconds I'd rather you simply read it for yourselves.[/B]" Stevens folded his arms across his chest, and simply waited for them to read what Crystal had sent.

Jared did as the rest of them and immediately started reading what Crystal had sent. It was a toss up as to who was the most surprised in that room, though Jared knew it was not him. Still... it was a little hard to swallow. He read it twice to make sure he wasn't seeing things. But if Crystal's notes about double checking it was true.. [I]This is not good.[/I] He thought.[I] If this gets out, it really will cause war.[/I]

In a way it was rather ironic, even more so than a member of the High Council turning out to be the leader of the Resistance. This was even more shocking and quite literally went against everything most Versilan's had been raised to believe. [I]So much for our belief that we are superior to other races. [/I] Though Jared had never been a huge believer in that, he simply didn't care.

Jared resisted the urge to laugh, it was rather funny. The High Council was so screwed up in so many ways that it was poetic justice in a sense. It certainly explained why some of them were in favor of better conditions for the lesser races. Not a lot of course but still it made sense. Because unless Crystal was wrong, and that would surprise the hell out of him if she was, but it seemed that nearly fifteen hundred years ago some of the lesser races had managed to pass themselves off as Versilans.

They must have slowly worked their way up into high positions and even learned about genetics so they could carefully make sure their true origins were never found out. And though they would probably never know which faction was the first to end up with someone who was not a true Versilan in their family, it must have been quite the shocker to realize that nearly a third of your family was tainted with the blood of the lesser races. It was no wonder they had kept it a secret and simply worked on getting rid of any trace of the code, on modifying themselves to hide it.

If others found out, it wouldn't matter that they were connected to the High Council, all they would see is that they were not 'pure'. That they were one of those members who were considered inferior. It really would start Civil War. Obviously the remaining factions would not be happy with being reduced to slaves, just as those who really did believe that they were better would object to being ruled by those they considered inferior. [I]This is going to get interesting. [/I]

"[B]Does anyone else know about this?[/B]" Jared finally spoke up since it seemed that the others were too stunned to do so.

"[B]It seems that Erica passed it on to other members of the Resistance since I received this message from a ship called the [I]Astera[/I] that ignored procedure and jumped to hyperspace immediately instead of going through the checkpoints after it left Reflection.[/B]" Stevens sent the message to all of them and again waited for them to read it.

[INDENT]This message is for Fleet Admiral Stevens. By now you must have received the results of Commander Crystal's tests. Just as by now you must be aware that we are prepared to share this information with the rest of the Versilan Empire if you do not free the lesser races. You are on the brink of Civil War and we are prepared to make sure that War does happen if you are not willing to listen to reason. I am also sure that by now you are also aware of the build up of supplies and military personal and goods in sector nine.

Make no mistake, the Resistance will fully support the factions who are refusing to hand over their personal codes should Civil War break out. The time for equal status and treatment is long overdue and should you be too arrogant and foolish to heed this warning then you have left us no choice but to go to War. I sincerely hope you finally see the error of your ways. [/INDENT]
"[B]That's it?[/B]" James asked. "[B]I mean I can see why they would say that considering what Crystal found out, but how can they expect things to change so radically? If we free the lesser races many aspects of our economy will collapse![/B]"

"[B]This is absurd,[/B]" Dakar finally spoke up. "[B]Are you really sure Crystal's test results are accurate? I find this hard to believe. How could something like this have happened without anyone noticing? I mean seriously![/B]"

"[B]I would have thought that was obvious Dakar,[/B]" Sandra said coldly. "[B]It started out with just a few and gradually increased over the centuries. If I understand Crystal's notes correctly, in just another generation or two the remaining fragments in their genetic code would have been removed and at that point, no test would ever show their true origins.[/B]"

"[B]What do you intend to do Stevens?[/B]" Jared asked. "[B]Even if people don't believe the Resistance, news like that, especially after all that has happened, will be listened to. You'll have riots on your hands that will make the fuss over Erica and the mental alterations look like nothing in comparison.[/B]"

Stevens just sighed as the groups started arguing among themselves a bit. He honestly didn't know what to do, his first instinct was to get the situation in sector nine under control, but any attempts to move the fleet or reassign personal there would be misunderstood. Finally after Dakar and Zach started getting angry Stevens spoke up.

"[B]Gentlemen, right now we need to worry about what to do about the situation in sector nine as well as how to handle damage control if this news gets out. Right now, things are pretty calm but I expect that to change. So your orders as of this moment are to start going over everything as if War really is going to happen. Once we've done that we'll start talking about how to address the issue with the remaining factions. I intend to confront them with the knowledge of Crystal's test to see what I can find out.[/B]" He looked at each one of them. "[B]Once all of us have done that we'll get together again to discuss it. Dismissed.[/B]"

Jared watched Stevens as he left the observation room, wondering just what he was thinking. Because as far as he could see, all hell was going to break loose. He looked over to Sandra who was already going over something in her hand held computer, where the others were leaving the room to head back to the home world. With a sigh Jared finally got up and left himself. [I]I guess I'd better double check all the information in regards to sector nine. [/I][/SIZE][/COLOR]

[Aaryanna_Mom]

Though it had pained him to do so, William had left the sector. Taking off as if he was heading for a check point and then immediately jumping to hyperspace the moment he was clear. Though he was heading for sector six, he had already gone into full stealth mode and after a while he would change course for sector seven. He would have liked to stay on Reflection, but he had gotten what he needed and with Daniel's capture he couldn't afford to stick around.

"[B]Is it true sir? What you sent in that message to Fleet Admiral Stevens? Are we really going to support the four factions?[/B]" His new second in command asked.

"[B]We are and once I send out an update to all Resistance members you'll understand why, in fact I'll send it to your terminal right now.[/B]" William punched in the command and then waited for him to read what Crystal's report would have found.

"[B]Bloody hell![/B]" He turned to face William. "[B]How long have you known about this?[/B]"

"[B]Since shortly before Erica was arrested. I've been gathering further information in regards to it as well as making sure those in sector nine were prepared. Erica was concerned that once it was found out the rest of the other factions would move to eradicate those who were tainted in the remaining factions.[/B]"

"[B]I can see why, something like this would cause Civil War among the factions. Hell! The rumors were true then.[/B]" He shook his head. "[B]If only we had been able to force their hand with this knowledge sooner.[/B]"

"[B]It's unfortunate, but until now, we would not have been believed, it would have been considered nothing more than an ugly lie started to discredit the High Council.[/B]" Williams didn't bother to tell him that even Erica had been worried that she would have been silenced before the information in regards to her arrest could be released. Even if she had little time to live, it had been a serious gamble to do what she did.

"[B]Yeah I know, they've done a good job with brainwashing everyone, between the mental alterations and the propaganda they spread about us. It's a wonder we even manage to get new members like we do. What I don't understand is how you managed to convince those in sector nine to start stockpiling.[/B]"

Williams laughed. "[B]I took advantage of connections that Erica had already set in place. Shortly before she was arrested she sent orders to those who work in that area and had them carefully work with the officials there to convince them that if they weren't ready, that the High Council would be moving to seize control of that sector.

It wasn't hard to convince them that even if the rumor about them being tainted with the blood of the lesser races was not true, the people would believe it after all that had happened. The hard part has been keeping them in check all this time since some of them were considering breaking away from the Versilan Empire altogether.[/B]"

William couldn't help but admire Erica's work and he had to agree. She had been convinced that left unprepared, the High Council, would do just that. The factions had been peaceful for generations, but it still didn't change the fact that internal power struggles occurred on a regular basis. Erica had been expecting Stevens and the others to seize control if given a chance, but she also knew that without some powerful incentive, no real changes would be made.

It was sad really, her last words to him. She knew that if things went how she expected them too that it would result in Civil War. And it seemed that she was right. Williams expected Stevens to attempt to find a way to defuse the situation in sector nine instead of doing anything about it. And if he did, he would do as threatened, that information would be sent everywhere, the preparations were already done.

"[B]Anyway, bring us out of hyperspace and set a new course for sector seven.[/B]" Then he went back to reviewing some of the information he had gotten on Reflection. If war did break out, he had a lot of work to do to get ready for it.

[CENTER]*********************************[/CENTER]
Daniel didn't know what if anything had been done, but to his utter surprise no one had come to run him through the standard interrogation techniques.[I] What is going on out there?[/I] He couldn't think of a single thing that would stop Stevens from having him interrogated. If he demanded that Kiva hand him over, he knew that she most likely would, so why was he still on the [I]Transcendence[/I]? Had Daego tried to do something and failed? Was he even still alive? It was maddening to not know what was going on.

Sure he knew about the rumors of Civil War and though William had not given him the details, he had assured him that the possibility was quite real.[I] Did war break out? Is that why nothing has happened to me?[/I] He caught himself as he started to move to pace back and forth in the tiny cell. Instead he stayed on the bed, doing his best to remain calm. He'd find out soon enough just what was going to happen. Though for the life of him, he couldn't think of a single reason as to why nothing had happened to him.

[I]Wait... Did Kiva decide to run?[/I] After all, he knew who she was, making him a severe liability to her position. But if she had run, taking the [I]Transcendence[/I] with her, then there would be no reason to leave him locked up in the cell. Daniel forced himself to lean back against the wall. No, he would just have to be patient and hope that when someone did come, it was with good news instead of bad. Though he was not expecting it to be good. Daniel just couldn't see how Daego could make a difference in regards to his fate.

[SunfallE]

[COLOR="goldenrod"]Several days had passed since Stevens had met with the others. He had confronted the remaining faction leaders and even with him knowing what was going on they refused to cooperate. Using Celestia and Jason was out of the question for another day or two as a result of her collapse and to make matters worse, in addition to sector nine, those in sectors ten, eleven, seven and eight were closing their borders, threatening action against anyone who entered. Regardless of who they were.

It had started yesterday when his attempts to talk to the representatives in sector nine had been met with a demand to put an end to the mental alterations, which he already had, and to free the lesser races since they were not going to allow him or the others to do away with those who had the blood of the lesser races in their families. It didn't seem to matter how much he explained that so long as no one was actively becoming involved with the lesser races he would not hold them accountable.

In the end they could not reach an agreement. Stevens was perfectly willing to overlook what had happened with the remaining four factions. According to Crystal it was a very long time ago and that unlike Celestia, it was highly unlikely that it was currently happening. The percentage of genetic differences was too low, it was easily over a thousand years ago. So he saw no point in punishing the current generation for the sins of their ancestors.

But he was not going to free the lesser races, he pointed out how such a move economically would not work, how most of the people would not accept it and that measures to provide a better environment as well as other benefits had already been approved. Dakar, James and Zach as well as the High Council members who had already been cleared were adamant. The lesser races would not be freed. Even the Council members who had not been cleared were fine with the solution. Though a few refused to say one way or another.

Within twenty four hours sector nine along with the others slammed their borders shut, even the military that was still there was being quiet. Though Stevens had his doubts about their loyalty at this point since all attempts to contact them was met with silence. What bothered him the most was that it put the main sectors right in the middle and sector one, where their main home world was right on the front line as far as sector seven went.

Stevens turned from looking out into space in the observation room just off the main bridge. There was an incoming transmission, tagged as high priority. Somehow even as he answered it he knew what it was.

"[B]Stevens,[/B]" it was Sandra. "[B]You need to take a look at the major networks, the information about Crystal's findings have literally been posted everywhere.[/B]"

With a sigh Stevens turned it on and then went back to Sandra, "[B]I kind of figured they would do that, they just refuse to see how freeing the lesser races would destroy our economy, not to mention [I]they are inferior[/I]. We didn't spend all this time building the Versilan Empire to turn around and hand it over to the slaves.[/B]"

"[B]I agree Stevens. And even if we did agree to slowly phase it out, to make them regular citizens, it still couldn't be done immediately. It would take several hundred years to do that. It can't be done so easily, if we were even inclined to do so.[/B]" Sandra sighed a bit herself. "[B]What do you want to do? Reports of people demanding that we either free the slaves or put an end to those in the other sectors who are tainted with the blood of the lesser races are starting to pour in[/B]."

Stevens pulled up the information they had gone over as far as preparing for war. "[B]We need to go over our resources again. I was not expecting the other sectors to decide to back the four factions in sector nine. Even though the military presence is not as heavy in those sectors, it is a problem.[/B]"

"[B]What about the Resistance? Has Kiva managed to get anything out of Daniel yet?[/B]"

"[B]Other than to question Daniel, no interrogation will be done.[/B]" Stevens told her.

"[B]What? Why?[/B]"

"[B]Commander Crystal recommended against any action being taken due to Celestia's state of mind. And with the prospect of War we can't afford to lose her programming experience, nor Jason's. I don't think we'll have a problem since most of the more advanced and more powerful ships are in the main sectors, but I don't want to overlook anything that could make a difference.[/B]"

Stevens glanced at the other report he had started when Sandra contacted him since he had the system flag where the reports for what were coming in. At the moment it looked like the cry to deal with those who had sunk so low as to mingle with the lesser races was mostly centered in sectors one through six and though there was little in the way of reports for sectors twelve, thirteen and fourteen. They were at least still under control.

"[B]Well Darren will be pleased to hear that, but if you aren't going to interrogate him then just what do you intend to do?[/B]"

"[B]Once Kiva finishes the questioning, even though I expect Daniel to say nothing, I intend on having him moved to the Council Center. He'll be fitted with disruptor restraints and put in quarters that are connected to Celestia and Jason's once I have them moved to a family unit. If anything it will be a good incentive for both Jason and Celestia to continue their work.

Once we get the other sectors back under control and this damn mess dealt with we can determine just what to do at that point. I really don't give a damn if he's allowed to live or not and though his information would be useful, having improvements like the transport doors being able to move is more important right now.[/B]"

Sandra just shook her head, "[B]I have to admit that I'm surprised at you Stevens. Even if I too trust Crystal's judgment, you're going to have a hard time justifying that to the others.[/B]"

"[B]Not when they learn that the program Celestia and Jason, along with the other researcher Matt wrote, actually bypassed the code and the security put in place on the Council Vaults. Before she collapsed they had just finished copying the information from one of them. You know as well as I do Sandra that losing that kind of skill is unacceptable. Hell if I didn't need Kiva to command the [I]Transcendence [/I]I'd have her working on improving military programs since she's quite skilled at hacking. But instead I'm going to need her to take advantage of the [I]Transcendence's[/I] superior capabilities to sneak into different sectors to gather intelligence.[/B]"

He hated to admit it, but for now, other than to make sure he could not escape, doing nothing to Daniel was a necessity, and Stevens was never one to overlook something like that. It was how he had gotten to his position of Fleet Admiral for the space forces. He had no problem with making decisions that he did not agree with.

"[B]I need to go Sandra, we have a lot to do. I need to talk to Kiva as well as the others, if we're not ready they'll take us by surprise. Stevens out.[/B]"

With a sigh Stevens contacted the others, going over all that he had with Sandra as well as his plans for Daniel, then he started to review the reports as well as the military that was still under his control.[I] If we do this right, we can put an end to this nonsense quickly. [/I] He continued making preparations, he would contact Kiva later. Dakar would need time to move Celestia and Jason as well as set things up anyway and he doubted that Kiva was done with the basic questioning anyway. Then he would see how she felt about taking on the task of gathering intelligence when the time was right. He certainly hoped she would. No one was better equipped than she was for the task.[/COLOR]

[GuyYouMetOnline]

[COLOR=darkslateblue]"There's no way it'll be stopped now," Kiva said. "There's no move Stevens and the others can make at this point that will avoid civil war."[/COLOR]

[COLOR=#483d8b]Kiva had tapped into news broadcasts as a way of monitering events. If what Crystal was investigating would cause civil war, then it would certainly be on the news if it got out. Which it was. It was shocking to hear the reports of what Crystal had found. At this point, civil war was all but inevitble.[/COLOR]

[COLOR=#483d8b]"Yeah, and we thought things were crazy before," Daego said. "Now there'll be a full-scale war. So it's come to this, then."[/COLOR]

[COLOR=#483d8b]"Come to what?"[/COLOR]

[COLOR=#483d8b]"I can't support the Empire, Kiva. Not after everything that's been revealed. The banned research, the alterations, I mean hell, Kiva, you know I've been questioning my decision not to join the Resistance. Now I know I was wrong to decline. Kiva, in a civil war, I will support the dissenting sectors."[/COLOR]

[COLOR=#483d8b]The signal sounded, indicating an incoming transmission. "This discussion hasn't happened," she said as she accepted the transmission. She was not surprised to see that it from Stevens.[/COLOR]

[COLOR=#483d8b]"I assume you know what's happening, Kiva," Stevens said.[/COLOR]

[COLOR=#483d8b]"Yes, we've been following the broadcasts. I don't think there's any way to avoid civil war now."[/COLOR]

[COLOR=#483d8b]"We're going to try, but I suspect you're right. In which case we'll be having need of your services. Your vessel is the fastest there is, and has the most advanced systems. This, of course, includes stealth systems. So the [I]Transcendence[/I] is ideal for reconisance. If war does break out, we'll need information on the enemy."[/COLOR]

[COLOR=#483d8b]"You can count on me," Kiva said. "Is there anything else?"[/COLOR]

[COLOR=#483d8b]"Yes. I've decided to transfer Daniel to the Council Center. He is to be given quarters connected to Jason and Celestia's. I think that his presence there will improve their productivity, particularly Celestia's. If you have and further questions for him, ask them now, then transfer him the the [I]Creator[/I]. We'll transport him the the Council Center when his quarters have been prepared."[/COLOR]

[COLOR=#483d8b]"Understood," Kiva said. "Kiva out." She closed the channel. [I]This is it, then. Even if Stevens says he has no intention of interrogating Daniel, I can't take the risk. My role as an undercover operative has come to an end.[/I][/COLOR]
[I][/I]
[COLOR=#483d8b]"Daego," Kiva said, "are you certain about your decision?"[/COLOR]

[COLOR=#483d8b]"I am," Daego said. "I think you probably understand, even if you don't agree."[/COLOR]

[COLOR=#483d8b]"You shouldn't be so quick to assume things."[/COLOR]

[COLOR=#483d8b]"Excuse me?"[/COLOR]

[COLOR=#483d8b]'Daego, this is important. If you're not absolutely certain about your decision, then you can leave. I'll let you launch an escape pod before departing."[/COLOR]

[COLOR=#483d8b]"What are you talking about?"[/COLOR]

[COLOR=#483d8b]"There will be no turning back, Daego. If you leave for sector 9, you will not be able to reverse that decision. So don't do so unless you're absolutely certain."[/COLOR]

[COLOR=#483d8b]"I'm certain," Daego said, "but what are you talking about? You're with the Empire, aren't you?"[/COLOR]

[COLOR=#483d8b]"No. I'll explain later. There's not time right now. We need to get out of here immediately. Bring all systems up. We may have some trouble on our way out."[/COLOR]

[COLOR=#483d8b]Daego put his questions aside for the time being. "Kiva, I know this ship is good, but there's no way we can make it through sector defenses."[/COLOR]

[COLOR=#483d8b]"So we broadcast Specialist codes. Those may not have the authority they used to, but at the very least, it'll buy us some time while the people in charge of the defensive force try to decide just what to do. Hopefully we'll make it out without any difficulties, but I want all systems ready just in case."[/COLOR]


[COLOR=#483d8b]"More incoming missiles," Daego said. "Impact in- wait, nevermind. Our defenses got them."[/COLOR]

[COLOR=#483d8b]"We shouldn't have any more problems," Kiva said. "Those guys are too far back to be too effective, and nobody else will be able to gen into range before we canjump to hyperspace. we've made it."[/COLOR]

[COLOR=#483d8b]At that moment in incoming cransmission was signaled. Kiva answered it, and was again not surprised to see Stevens. "What the hell are you doing?" Stevens said.[/COLOR]

[COLOR=#483d8b]"Following orders," Kiva said. "I had standing orders that were to come into effect under certain conditions. Those conditions have now been met."[/COLOR]

[COLOR=#483d8b]"What the hell are you talking about. Who gave these orders?"[/COLOR]

[COLOR=#483d8b]"I can't tell you that, Stevens, not even if I wanted to. See, I don't know who gave the orders. All I know is that they're there, and that they are apparently standard for those in my position."[/COLOR]

[COLOR=#483d8b]"Kiva, tell me what the hell you're doing!"[/COLOR]

[COLOR=#483d8b]"No. I can't do that, Stevens. And don't think you can threaten me with concequences upon my return, because this is likely to be a one-way trip. Odds are we won't be seeing each other again, Stevens."[/COLOR]

[COLOR=#483d8b]"We've passed the limit," Daego said. "Destination set. Initiating jump."[/COLOR]

[COLOR=#483d8b]"Goodbye, Stevens," Kiva said. She closed the channel, and the [I]Transcendence[/I] jumped into hyperspace.[/COLOR]


[COLOR=#483d8b]"Do you really think you fooled Stevens with that bullshit?" Daego said.[/COLOR]

[COLOR=#483d8b]"What bullshit?" Kiva said. "Everything I told him is absolutely true. I just left out a crucial piece of information. Now come on. We should let Daniel out of his cell."[/COLOR]

[COLOR=#483d8b]"What is going on, Kiva?" Daego asked as the two of them made their way to Daniel's cell.[/COLOR]

[COLOR=#483d8b]"It's simple," Kiva said, stopping in front of Daniel's cell. She opened it and stepped inside. "Hello, Daniel. [I]Kaisek telmer nero vakl kreshnit[/I]." The phrase was not part of the sequence Kiva and Erica had exchanged, because this time Kiva was initiating it. The sequence when the agent initiated it was different than when someone else initiated it.[/COLOR]

[COLOR=#483d8b]Daego said nothing, just watching as Kiva and Daniel exchnged the code sequence. "What was that about?" he asked when they had finished.[/COLOR]

[COLOR=#483d8b]"A series of codes used for identity verification," Kiva said. "It was really just a formality in this case, though, since he knows who I am and I know who he is. He didn't know that that code sequence was mine, by the way. You're only told which operative matches a code sequence if it's thought that you're likely to have a need to contact that operative. Otherwise, you're given the code sequence but not the operative it's matched with. That way, you can recognize a sequence when it's initiated, but if you're captured you can only give the sequences, not the operatives they're matched with. It's a security measure."[/COLOR]

[COLOR=#483d8b]"Okay," Daego said, "but just why are there these codes in the first place?"[/COLOR]

[COLOR=#483d8b]"I just told you, identity verification. It lets the other party know that the person is really an operative, and confirms for the operative that he or she is not speaking to an enemy. Which is important, because when you're undercover, one major mistake is enough to compromise you."[/COLOR]

[COLOR=#483d8b]"Undercover? You're not-"[/COLOR]

[COLOR=#483d8b]"Yes, I am," Kiva said. "I am an undercover operative for the Resistance. I've been one for quite a while; since before we met, actually."[/COLOR]

[COLOR=#483d8b]"I- so then- you've just been acting the whole time?"[/COLOR]

[COLOR=#483d8b]"No. The only thing I've faked is my allegance."[/COLOR]

[COLOR=#483d8b]"I- I'm sorry, Kiva. It's just that-"[/COLOR]

[COLOR=#483d8b]"I understand," Kiva said. "If this didn't come as a surprise, then I wouldn't have been a very good undercover agent, now, would I?"[/COLOR]

[COLOR=#483d8b]"You're certain he can be trusted with this information?" Daniel said.[/COLOR]

[COLOR=#483d8b]Kiva nodded. "I am. And even if he couldn't be, it wouldn't matter. My role as an undercover operative has ended. Stevens wanted me to turn you over to him. He claimed he wasn't going to interrogate you, but I couldn't take that risk. Besides, even if it didn't happen immediately, you would certainly have been interrogated eventually. So I had no choice. I had to run. Now, Stevens did contact me as I was making my escape. I told him I was acting under standing orders, but I think he's smart enough to figure out that I was undercover. Not that it matters at this point. We masked our jump signature, so they can't tell where we're going, and even if they could, this is the fastest ship there is. They couldn't catch us."[/COLOR]

[COLOR=#483d8b]"And where are we going?"[/COLOR]

[COLOR=#483d8b]"Sector 9," Kiva said. "Sectors 7-12 have basically cut off relations with the rest of the empire. 9 had been stockpiling resources for a while before that, so it's likely to become the HQ for that side of the civil war. We're heading there, unless you have a better destination for us."[/COLOR]

[COLOR=#483d8b]"No," Daniel said. "If I knew where William was, I'd say to go to him, but for all I know, he's back in sector 1."[/COLOR]

[COLOR=#483d8b]"Did he have a ship other than the [I]Tryst[/I]?"[/COLOR]

[COLOR=#483d8b]"Yes, the [I]Astera[/I]."[/COLOR]

[COLOR=#483d8b]"I thought so. The [I]Astera[/I] left sector 1, breaking procedure as it did so. A message was sent from i announcing the intent to make certain information public, information thah has basically garunteed a civil war. And it would seem that the information was indeed made public." She summarized the informatoin for Daniel.[/COLOR]

[COLOR=#483d8b]"That's- you're certain?" Daniel said.[/COLOR]

[COLOR=#483d8b]Kiva nodded. "I take it you didn't know, then. But yes, it's the truth. Now, since you don't have a destination, then we'll continue to sector 9 as planned. I doubt the forces there will be friendly to us when we arrive, but you're a know high-level member of the Resistance. I think they'll let us in if you say so. And who knows, William may even be there."[/COLOR]

[COLOR=#483d8b]"Then sector 9 it is," Daniel said.[/COLOR]

[Aaryanna]

[COLOR="goldenrod"]Crystal had hoped that things would not degenerate to war, but with sectors seven, eight, ten, eleven and now twelve joining with sector nine it was looking like it was unavoidable. She knew that Stevens had tried to reason with the representatives in sector nine, but she also knew that Stevens and the others would not free the lesser races. Personally she could understand the decision, but considering what had happened she could also see why people were demanding it. And though she had no problem with it, Crystal also could see that instantly freeing them just wouldn't work.
[I]
If only that fool had been willing to negotiate slowly giving them their freedom. [/I] Crystal couldn't help but shake her head, disgusted with how things had turned out. Stevens and the others were unwilling to budge and unfortunately close to ninety percent of those residing in sectors one through six agreed. And though those in sector thirteen probably did not, it didn't matter. Earth was still firmly under Versilan control, as well as sector fourteen.

And those in the other sectors, enough of them disagreed that control of those sectors was now lost and though she figured it would not last long, at the moment they were considering themselves separate from the rest of the Empire. Closing their borders to anyone wishing to pass. It was a situation that Crystal was sure that Stevens would move to correct and when she got immediate orders to return to the [I]Tempest [/I]and prepare her crew, she knew that he was going to make a move.

It was going to get ugly, even though most of the strongest military power was located in sectors one through six, it didn't change the fact that there was now a lot that was unaccounted for. And though she was not a true Commander even she could see how being between the sectors would make putting an end to the conflict difficult, they were essentially surrounded, only sector five was completely surrounded by safe borders.
[I]
I wish I was not a part of this mess.[/I] She thought even as she left the bridge to gather her things to head over to the [I]Creator[/I] and give Erica her treatment. Even though she would follow orders, just the thought of the bloodshed that would result was enough to make her want to simply quit. But as always Crystal carried out her duties as she always did. Completely ignoring Erica's attempts to talk to her and simply retiring in her quarters on the [I]Tempest[/I] when she was done.

It was a shame that it had come to this. Of all things she would have never imagined that they would end up going to war with themselves. And since it was what she always did, Crystal simply started going over emergency preparations for treating the injured or the sick as well as dealing with other aspects such as temporary shelters and supplies. It would be best to assume that any planet in any sector could be affected and prepare accordingly. [/COLOR]

[Rachmaninoff]

Darren was resisting the urge to laugh. It wasn't funny, but part of him just thought it was rather ironic that sectors seven through twelve had broken off from the rest of the Empire. And in a way, it was not surprising. Not after he had heard on the news about what the four factions had been hiding.[I] If my family had the blood of the lesser races in it, I would have hidden that knowledge too.[/I] But as he stood there in his quarters, looking out at space, the real irony came from realizing that until told otherwise, he was stuck on the [I]Creator[/I]. With the prospect of war occurring, Sandra had made it clear that he was going nowhere.

Once again he was going to be expected to use his knowledge of shipping to aid the High Council, only this time he was going to be using it to track down smuggling and other aspects that could indicate people were aiding those in the sectors that had broken off. Darren had started to object, only to shut up when he realized the position he was in. Kerstin was still on board the [I]Creator[/I] and Mike was in sector five when the borders had been shut down. Even if part of him wanted to get on board his ship, the [I]Wilkey[/I] and run for one of the sectors that had broken off, it just wasn't possible.

For one thing he doubted that Sandra or Jared would give him the clearance to get out of sector one. And his ship, though well equipped, was a freighter. It had no special defenses or any weapons at all. Darren sighed. No he should have realized that once he had been dragged in this mess he was stuck. And though he was certain that Sandra would do nothing, he did not trust Jared to be above using whatever means was necessary to ensure his cooperation. And the only thing he truly cared about was here on the [I]Creator[/I]. In the end it would be better to say nothing and simply do what was expected.

At least he had been able to tell Kerstin that Daniel was no longer in sector one. It was no secret that Kiva and her crew had left. They were not the only ones, all through sectors one through six, there were reports of people making a run for one of the sectors that had broken off. Not a lot but some. Though most of them were caught before they even got out of the sector they were in. Unlike Kiva they lacked the means to simply evade the military.

It had surprised him at how much the news that Daniel had escaped made Kerstin happy. At least at first, since considering all that had happened, he knew he shouldn't be surprised. Kerstin was like that, once she understood or knew what someone was like she was pretty forward about how she felt about them and the knowledge that he had turned out to be a Commander in the Resistance had hurt. She did not want anything to happen to him. And in a way he could understand that, if only because he did not want anything to happen to her.

Darren continued watching the fleet as more and more ships began to show up. He didn't know what Stevens had in mind, but he'd find out soon enough. Though he imagined that Stevens would move to reclaim the sectors that had broken off. If only he had not been dragged into this mess. Darren would have much happier to still simply be a merchant. He shrugged mentally,[I] I guess I'll find out what's going to happen soon enough.[/I]

[Aaryanna_Mom]

When it became apparent that Stevens and the rest of those in sector one were not going to give into the demand to release the enslaved races, William did just as he had told him that he would. Within no time the information about the four factions was all over the Versilan Empire. And though he had been certain that at least sector nine would break off, he was mildly surprised that sectors seven, eight and ten, eleven and then finally twelve had followed. He had been hoping that some of them would but he had not been counting on it.

The only question William had now was just how firm each sector would be in the face of retaliation from Stevens and the rest of the High Council that had been cleared for duty. He was positive that they would not sit by and allow it. Especially since most of the military in those sections had simply chosen to break off as well. It was a pity that the core of the fleet was residing in sectors one through six as well as thirteen and fourteen. It would have helped if the crew of one of the fleet's five flagships had broken off.

But they had not, still the threat of them moving in mass to take back a sector was pretty slim. Stevens would be forced to keep the fleet divided to a certain extent to protect both sides from invasion. And sector one would be particularly open with one side right against sector seven. Which meant that the chances of sector seven being the first one they moved to reclaim was pretty high.

As William was about to call it a day, yet another bit of information was forwarded to his location from one of his operatives still in sector one. He couldn't help but smile a bit at the news. Kiva had followed standard procedures and had run with both the [I]Transcendence[/I] and Daniel. She wouldn't know it of course, though he figured that she suspected it, but since Daniel had been working in close proximity with him for quite some time, he had quite a bit of information that would have been disastrous for Stevens to learn about.

He would have preferred to have her as an undercover agent with war breaking out, but having the [I]Transcendence's[/I] capabilities as well as Daniel's command experience would ultimately be more helpful. And there was no getting around that having a ship like the [I]Transcendence[/I] would work in their favor. Other than the flagships it was capable of destroying other battleships and messenger ships. It would be critical for the upcoming fights.

William wondered about her crew Daego, but figured that it was likely he either left the ship or had decided to back the dissenting sectors. After all, he knew from Erica's notes that at one time he had been approached due to having similar views. With all that had happened, it was highly possible that he had decided to switch sides. With a tiny smile he turned his hand held computer off. Once they got to sector seven he would start organizing the Resistance cells to work with the local military and representatives for the upcoming war.

[CENTER]********************************************[/CENTER]
Daniel was both relieved and yet at the same time sad. Though technically things were going well for the Resistance, Civil War would bring a horde of other problems that they really didn't need. Deep down he knew that it would likely end up like this, Stevens and the others simply refused to free the enslaved races. They wouldn't even bargain to slowly phase it out. Sure it would have been hard on their economy, but in time they would have adjusted. Hell, as long as they lived it could have easily been done in his lifetime.

It was easy for him to wish for the change, but then his own daughter and son-in-law were slaves. Daniel had no trouble accepting members of the lesser races, once he had learned about Celestia it had been easy to accept it. Her mother, when she had been alive, was a kind and gentle woman. And though he had done nothing about it back then since he had not known about it, he since then wondered about how they had ever thought it was okay to enslave others.

[I]We're so messed up. [/I]With a tiny shake of his head he went back to reviewing the information that Kiva had for him. She had already summarized everything and it came to no surprise to learn that just as he had thought, Kerstin had not said anything. He only hoped that after what happened, Stevens would not change his mind and take it out on her.

Then once they had gotten clear enough he had prepared a specially encrypted message for William. Requesting that Kiva stop just long enough for him to send it off into the system, it was short and to the point, letting William know his current status and plans. The message would get to him and by the time they reached sector nine, if he wasn't already there, he would be able to contact William directly. If he understood the situation correctly, it would be easy enough to get into sector nine, William would make sure that was taken care of. His only regret was that Celestia and Jason were still stuck in sector one.

[Horendithas]

[COLOR="Indigo"][SIZE="1"]It was pretty obvious what Kiva was doing when she ran with the [I]Transcendence[/I] and Daniel Landers. Stevens was being pretty quiet about it but to Jared it was obvious that he was furious. Not over the deception since lately it was becoming common to find Resistance agents in positions of authority. Hell their damn leader had been a member of the High Council no less. No it was the loss of the ship that bothered him the most. Even though Kiva was good at her job, something that had made it easy for her to stay hidden, there were plenty of other agents and military personal who were also just as good at their jobs. So replacing her was not a problem. But replacing the ship? She was the one testing it before more were put into production. So at the moment, there wasn't another Messenger ship that used the perfect Crystal system.

Jared was also certain that Stevens and the others were annoyed in regards to Erica, since now it was painfully clear that her arrest and the exposure of the information by Kiva had been carefully planned to bring everything to light. In a small way Jared actually admired the intelligence and planning behind what Erica had done. All the pieces had fallen into place and it was clear that she used all of them to her advantage. It was easy to see that Erica had met with Kiva shortly before she went to sector seven to investigate the matter with the explosives used for the attack, just so she could make sure Kiva exposed her as the leader of the Resistance.

Something that when they had talked to Erica earlier that day and had mentioned, had only resulted in her giving them a tiny smile as well as a reminder that they were free to believe what they wished. Erica was too clever to admit to anything at all. It had taken a huge effort for Stevens to simply turn and walk away. And in a small way Jared could understand that. As an interrogator, it was extremely frustrating to have no means to force the person to give you the information you were after. And to deal with someone as intelligent as Erica only made that frustration even greater.

Now with sectors seven through twelve cut off from the rest of the Empire, things were going to get even more crazy than they did when Erica was arrested and Martial Law was enforced. If they stood by and did nothing it would generate even more problems, creating doubt in those who were still loyal. It was also a problem that for some of those sectors, there were aspects of production that were crucial to the main sectors. Not only was the special plants used for the more powerful explosives only grown in sector seven, but those same plants were also used for a lot of medical uses as well. And the production facilities that the Resistance had destroyed a while ago were responsible for parts used in all basic ships throughout the Empire. And though they had been rebuilt, they were still located in sector seven.

With it being along the border of sector one, recovering sector seven would most likely end up being more important than tackling the one where they had stock pilled weapons and supplies. Jared gave off a tiny sigh without realizing that he was doing so. He already had more work than he knew what to do with. Stevens and the others were moving to shuffle everything to make sure the borders between sectors were well defended. Just as Darren was being required to redirect the shipping to make sure everyone was getting basic supplies. In short, they were getting ready for war since he knew that Stevens would not sit back and let the others simply break off.

It was a beautiful sight in a way, watching all the ships that were gathering in sector one, and Jared's quarters gave him an excellent view. He stood still, his hands loosely clasped together behind his back. For the moment he was going to enjoy a bit of time to himself. Since in just a few weeks, all of that would change. Though on some level he was kind of looking forward to it. He kept himself trim and fit, as well as up to date on all the newest weapons and other aspects of combat. Using the holographic programs for training was one thing, but actual field experience? That would be quite interesting and he was going to enjoy putting his skills to the test.

Just as he would most likely get to put his interrogation skills to use, that too was something he enjoyed and yet rarely got to use. Given a chance he'd love nothing better than to re-capture Daniel Landers, along with William and now Kiva and her crew. If that were to happen, he would enjoy every minute of prying every single bit of information they knew out of them before he destroyed them. If anything, the fact that the sectors had broken off just showed that in some ways, they had been getting far too soft as of late. It was time to correct that mistake.[/SIZE][/COLOR]

[SunfallE]

[COLOR="DarkRed"][FONT="Lucida Sans Unicode"]Celestia had not meant to collapse, one moment she had been upset and then the next her head had started spinning and then she had woken up in the medical wing. And when she had first woken up she could not remember what had happened. It had taken a little time for her to lose that disconnected and confused feeling and when she had, Celestia had wished that she really could forget. Even though her and Jason had been taken back to their quarters and essentially ordered to rest, she could not. All she could think about was what was going to happen to Daniel. She didn't even care that apparently Commander Crystal had removed the disruptor restraints that they had been required to wear.

But then a short while later Elite Commander Dakar had moved them to new quarters, a move that puzzled her to no end since they were obviously up several levels and faced one of the internal gardens located in the Council Center. Even though there was a forcefield designed to keep one from being able to fall off the balcony overlooking the garden, it still surprised her that she and Jason had even been moved in the first place. It was also connected to a second set of quarters. It made no sense whatsoever that they would be given better quarters than they had before.

It was also clear that Commander Dakar did not approve of their new location, though why he was so cold about it she did not understand. It was not until the next day when one of the few things they were allowed was finally set up, access to the local news, that she found out why. Even though she hated listening to it, the news was the only way for her or Jason to get information. Sure Matt would tell them things but Dakar and James never bothered to explain anything.

Celestia had known things were a mess due to her and Jason being required to work on the Council data vaults, but she had no idea just how messed up things really were until she saw the news about sectors seven through twelve breaking off relations from the rest of the Versilan Empire. And the news about the four factions having ancestors who were members of the lesser races? It was, to be frank, shocking. So many of the people she had met were so hostile towards those of the lesser races and found the fact that she was both offensive. People like Matt who didn't seem to care were the exception.

But the thing that had made her the happiest, even though it did not change her position of still being stuck, was the news that Daniel Landers was once again the top most wanted individual in the Versilan Empire. And surprisingly it seemed that Kiva and her crew Daego had been added to that list. She didn't know for sure how it happened since the news didn't give the details, but all she cared about was that it had.

Celestia turned from her position of looking over the balcony and down at the trees and flowers in the garden as Jason walked out to join her. "[B]Still thinking about what was on the news earlier?[/B]" He asked her as he stopped next to her and put his right arm across her shoulders.

"[B]Yes.[/B]" She said simply as she leaned into Jason.

"[B]It's kind of crazy, isn't it? All this time they've been enslaving other races even though at one time, some of them were members of their own families.[/B]" Jason shook his head sadly. "[B]I'll never understand how someone can be okay with taking away another person's liberty.[/B]"

"[B]Nor will I,[/B]" Celestia said simply. "[B]As much as I hate violence or war, I don't see any other way of forcing the High Council to stop what they've been doing all this time. I just I hope that those who have broken off are able to put an end to it.[/B]"

"[B]Only time will tell,[/B]" Jason replied, he pulled Celestia a little closer. "[B]I only hope that we aren't stuck here for the rest of our lives. Being forced to improve their stupid programs for them.[/B]"

Celestia sighed a bit, she knew what was going to happen. With Civil War breaking out, once they were done accessing the remaining Council vaults, they would most likely be expected to improve things to help with the war. And at the moment, she wasn't sure how she was going to handle that. She did not want to be responsible for making it easier for them to kill others.

When she had been on Earth and her company had first started, she had refused to work for the various governments since she would not do weapons research, now she suspected that she would be given no choice. She looked up at Jason and smiled a bit before wrapping her arm around his back. For now she'd simply enjoy a quiet moment. Worrying about what was going to happen wouldn't change it and just knowing that Daniel was safe was enough to make her feel better.

Jason leaned over and kissed Celestia on the forehead. His own feelings as to what was going to happen uncertain and mixed. It was good to see her in better spirits since learning about Daniel, but at the same time he knew her well enough to know that she was obviously concerned about what would be expected of them. And he felt the same way. With the prospect of war coming, those in charge would be less forgiving and would expect more. He only hoped that they didn't change their minds about letting families stay together. He looked back out at the garden and sighed. If only Stevens and the others had been willing to work on slowly releasing the lesser races instead of insisting on war.

To be continued...[/FONT][/COLOR]