The fleet has been drowning in boredom for quite some time now; there hasn't been any Cylon attacks-which is good-or any feuds or chaotic events. The fleet has been at a standstill for over two weeks and it was really taking a toll on them. The long periods of ghostly silences and overall lack of zeal or emotions has even started to concern Saul, who was known to hate the "civies" as he referred to them.
"Bill, there is something that is bothering me."
"What is it Saul?"
"I know this may not be any of the military's business, but it doesn't seem to be bothering the president so..."
"What, Saul?"
"Haven't you noticed how quiet it has been?"
Bill was becoming agitated and tired of this guessing game.
"I guess it is a little more still than usual. I thought you of all people would be grateful for no bickering from civilians."
"Oh gods Bill, you know I am! But it's more than just that. It's as if no one even cares anymore. The fleet just seems to be ghostly bodies occupying the ships."
The Admiral removed his spectacles and rubbed his nose bridge. He was tired; he hadn't had a good night's rest ever since they were on the run for their lives from the Cylons. Even though it was less eventful, he was still on guard for any surprise Cylon attacks.
"Saul, that is something to work on. Do you have any suggestions."
"I don't know. Maybe we could... throw a party!"
"How about something that won't drain all my energy planning."
"You're right Bill." Saul chuckled. "I'll think of something. I'll ask Ellen; she knows about this stuff."
As Saul was almost at the hatch, Bill said, "Hey, maybe we could have a reporter do another of those documentaries again."
Saul scoffed and retorted, "Like the one D'Anna did that showed the military with our pants down? I don't think so."
"It was not that bad Saul. The president and I really liked it."
"Yeah? Well, maybe she should be the star in the next one."
LATER THAT EVENING
"Madam President, the Admiral is on the line."
"Admiral. Good evening."
"Good evening, Madam President."
"What can I do for you?"
"My XO brought something to my attention. I know it may not be a priority, but I think it should be addressed."
"What?"
"He thinks the fleet is... bored." Bill had to laugh a little at his choice of words.
"I think I know what he means. Everyone seems to be burying themselves in a hole of some kind, oblivious to everyone else around them. Wow. I never that Saul Tigh to be a man of such...such..."
"Sentiments."
Laura smiled as Bill finished her sentence.
"Yes, such sentiments. Do you have anything in mind to address the problem?"
"No, not yet." Bill chuckled.
"What is so funny?"
"OH, it's nothing. Just military humour."
"Sure it is. I am sure it has something to do with me."
"I came up with an idea with Saul. Maybe we could do another of those documentaries the fleet liked so much."
"Ah! Let me guess, this one will be based on the activities aboard Colonial One?"
"You are very perceptive, Madam President." They shared a hearty laugh.
"Bill, I really don't need any reporters lurking around here right now. I could use some time to myself and I am not sure when this little amnesty the Cylons have given us will last."
"Okay Laura, but I think it is the easiest solution to the problem."
"Of course you would. Or should I say Saul?" Bill smiled.
"Are we still on for tonight, Laura?"
"Of course we are. Why wouldn't we?"
THE FOLLOWING DAY...
"I can't believe you talked me into this."
"Don't worry, it will be okay. Just make it exciting." Bill smiled at Laura from across her desk where she sat. She smiled back.
"I'll do this, not for you, but for the fleet." She got up from her chair and signaled the lady who was now at the door to enter. Bill followed her eyes then stood as well.
"Well, Madam President. I didn't know the Admiral would be here as well."
"I won't. I was just about to leave." He turned to Laura and wink at her.
"Good morning, Ma'am."
"Good morning Admiral. Thank you for coming this morning." Bill smiled at her little white lie.
"No problem."
LATER THAT DAY...
"Wow! Your day is very hectic, Madam President! How do you keep up?"
Laura stopped what she was reading to look at the reporter.
"Well, Miss Walker, I just don't think about it. If I do, I know I might just drop." They smiled then Walker added, "I do envy you, you know. While you are trying to cope with all this... paperwork and meetings and problems, we on the outside are bored to wit's end."
"Yes, it is a messed up system, isn't it?"
"Pretty much."
Time just seem to fly by while Laura was being interviewed. She was brought back to her senses when the phone rang.
"Oh, I have to take this. Sorry."
"No need to apolgise, you are the President."
Laura smiled then picked up the receiver.
"Yes?"
"Laura."
"Oh! Good evening Admiral." She tried to hide her enthusiasm. "I am here with..uh..Miss Walker. Uh..is it..urgent?"
"Well... are we on speaker?"
Laura smiled and answered softly, "No you're not, but I cannot discuss this right now. I'll speak with you later?"
Bill laughed as he continued flirting, "Of course you will. I am not going anywhere unless..you want me too?"
Laura used every resilient bone in her body to disregard her building emotions towards the Admiral.
"I am glad you understand Admiral. Good bye."
"Good bye, Laura. See you soon." He hung up before she could retort.
Miss Walker was no fool; she was a very perceptive woman.
"It seems you and the Admiral are good friends now?"
Laura played it cool.
"Yes, we have come an extremely long way. Where were we?"
"Actually, Ma'am, I think I should get going. I'll be back tomorrow."
"That would be great," Laura said with a hint of sarcasm. "Good night, Miss Walker."