Hello fans, I'm glad to see everyone is still sticking around despite my lack of updates last year, I wanted to at least get this chapter up on Christmas day but had writers block for awhile. While this update may give some hope, I hate to say, I don't know when I will post another chapter for a while as again I will be busy this year. I made this and the other two chapter cause of all the reviews I received encouraging me to continue, also wanted to show I'm still around despite my lack of updates. Anyway enjoy this chapter and have a great new year to everyone.

March 12, 2558

Exodus Cluster

Utopia System

Obit

Eden Prime

In the utopia system where one of Earths colonies found through relay exploration and the colony founded in 2152 was unaware of the battle taking place above their planet in orbit.

Three Cylon Basestars arrived to destroy the colony after being discovered by heavy raiders scouting nearby systems from Shanxi.

After the battle of Shanxi, the Alliance had the remaining ships in their disposal to be deployed at every colony but due to the fact that not only the battle of Shanxi had destroyed many Alliance ships, they were also devoting resources to building more.

Eden prime was being protected by two Cruisers and three frigates as planetary protection, even though the Alliance ships outnumbered the Cylons, their Raiders make up most of their strength. When released they swarm the Alliance ships giving the Basestars a clear path to the planet for bombardment.

As the Alliance ships were being overwhelmed by raider attacks on their ships the Cylon Basestars moved into position.

Alliance

Cruiser

Jakarta

CIC

On the CIC sparks were flying as the ship was bombarded by nukes and ship-ship missiles from the raiders. The kinetic barriers were holding under the bombardment, but the Guardian lasers were completely overwhelmed and burnt out.

The Captain was holding on to his chair as the shaking continued. The sensors officer reported to him. "Captain Cylon Basestars are in a clear position to attack the planet." Shouted the officer over the alarms blaring. "What are your orders?"

The Captain was thinking trying to calm his nerves as the ship continued to be attacked. "Move into position between us and the planet." Ordered the Captain.

The helmsman shook his head. "That's a negative sir, we have damage to our engines."

The Captain slammed his fists on his chair. "Damn it, officer that colony is going to be nuked unless we stop them."

Just as the helmsman was going to reply back the sensors officer reported again. "Captain three new contacts just appeared." Reported the officer, the Captain was thinking it was over, another three Cylons ships and they couldn't do anything about it, but just then the officer spoke again. "We've got IFF, it's the Alliance."

Orbit

Eden Prime

Three Alliance ships appeared in a bright light from using their reversed engineered Colonial FTL drives. They began attacking the Basestars immediately once they were in range as the Basestars began taking heavy damage.

In a desperate attempt the Basestars launched nukes at the planet, but as soon as the nukes began leaving the Basestars another bright light appeared in front of the Basestars where their missiles were being directed at.

The missiles slammed into the shields of this new Alliance ship, but this ship was of a different design then regular Alliance ships something the Cylon Basestars were familiar with. It was an Alliance Battlestar fresh off the assembly line.

Alliance

Battlestar

Hercules

CIC

On board the CIC which was modeled after Colonial designs, but was upgraded to Alliance standards and technology. Holographic controls were at every station, a holo table in the center of the room showing the image of the battle and the Captain standing around giving out orders.

"Shields strength?" the Captain asked as he stands over the holotable looking over the battle.

"Shields are holding sir." Said an operator manning the weapons and controls.

The Captain smiled looking at the Basestars that shot at his ship. "Return fire with the main cannons." The Captain said with joy in his voice.

Orbit

Eden Prime

The Battlestar Hercules fired its twin Mass accelerated cannons hitting two of the Basestars in the center causing the star shaped ship to split apart and explode, while the third was attack from four mounted cannons damaging the third considerably forcing it to jump away as well as the raiders attacking the Alliance ships.

Hercules

CIC

A loud roar of cheers as everyone in the CIC was happy that they saved the colony, but the Captain on the other hand was not pleased.

"Give me a status report." He demanded as he walks over to the sensors officer.

"Colony undamaged." Said the Sensors officer as he begins reporting. "However, we did lose two frigates and one Cruiser in the battle."

The Captain shook his head not pleased by this. "How's the rest?"

"Some need dry dock for repairs a weeks' worth." Said the sensors officer. "Others a month or two."

The Captain nodded his head in understanding. "Send everything we have back at Arcturus Station."

Sol System

Earth

Vancouver

Alliance Building

Conference Room

On Earth in a controlled Alliance building in Vancouver, a meeting was taking place between Admirals in the Alliance. After the battle of Shanxi where the Alliance pushed back the Cylons, the Alliance received a surge of popularity which gave it the necessary political credibility to establish its own Parliament and speak for humanity as a whole.

While the Alliance headquarters is on Arcturus station, the Alliance set up bases on Earth for political, R&D, and training facilities. While the Alliance was now a supranational government, it still had to obey the United Nations on Earth as many nations still retained their sovereignty.

In this building the Admirals were going over the battle at Eden Prime and losses they took from the battle.

"This is unacceptable." Complained the Admiral displeased at what he was reading. "We're losing more ships then we can replace."

"The Cylons lost ships too at the battle." Countered another Admiral noting the Cylons loss. "And the third was heavily damaged, by our new Mars-class Battlestars."

The Mars class Battlestars were named as such due to the fact the irony that the Colonials designation of the Galactica and Pegasus Battletstars were respectively called Jupiter class and Mercury class; names of planets in the sol system, so the Alliance decided to keep to that tradition and called the newest Battlestars Mars class. A befitting name considering Mars is the Roman god of war and Battlestars are built for war.

"No one is denying that the Mars class is currently the strongest ships we have ever built thanks to the Colonials sharing their technology." The Admiral said respecting these new ships. "But the reality is, we have to face facts here people."

"If you have something to say, then say it." Demanded a different Admiral.

The Admiral took a deep breath before responding. "The enemy we now face, while technologically inferior to us, has the resources and manpower to build ships faster than we do." Said the Admiral pointing out the machine army they have that doesn't need sleep or to eat, or even get paid to build ships. "Not to mention the latest in Cylon information headed by doctor Qian that Cylon ships being biomechanical have the ability to heal themselves from damage taken in battle on their own and not needing any repairs by a crew or stationed at a drydock to heal itself."

He presents this latest information to the rest of the Admirals. The Admirals had uncomfortable looks on their faces from reading the reports.

While the look of concern is warranted due to the need of building ships, one Admiral wasn't going to let fear steer the Admiralty board in a different direction.

"While Doctor Qian research into this is concerning." Pointed out by Admiral Grissom the man who made it possible to push back the Cylons and the first human to explore the Relays. "There is hope."

There were a number of whispers around the conference room as many Admirals were wondering what Grissom has up his sleeves. As soon as the talks died down, Grissom continued.

"I recently received information about a weakness in Cylon technology." Reported Grissom leaning over the conference table with his hands clasped together. "A unique radiation harmless to humans but affects Cylons, all types of Cylons."

While many Admirals were discussing this latest information, the Admiral that started this meeting was angry to hear this all of sudden. "Why haven't we heard about this sooner?" Question the Admiral accusingly.

"At the time I learned of this weakness, Shanxi already faced occupation." Said Grissom defending himself. "We had to take action."

"So, what is this weakness?" asked another Admiral wanting to know.

This is where Grissom had a grimaced look on his face. "The weakness is a form of radiation from a gas giant called Ragnar." Announced Grissom making everyone aware. "The radiation adversely affects Cylon technology."

"Ragnar?" Asked the Admiral confused by the name. "I'm not familiar with any gas giant with that name."

Grissom took a deep breath before speaking. "Because the gas giant is located on the outer edge of the Helios Gamma/Delta system." Explained Grissom finally revealing its location.

This caused a number of Admirals to whisper amongst themselves about this new revelation causing many to question Grissom.

"When you say Helios gamma/Delta system, you really mean the planet is in the Cyrannus system." Scoffed the Admiral at Grissom's failed attempt at giving them a real solution. "The Colonials home system?"

Grissom nodded his head, which made many Admirals feel a little upset that Grissom in a sparing moment gave the Admirals hope.

"You can't be serious about this?" asked another Admiral disbelief that Grissom would suggest heading to Cyrannus. "You have any idea how far that system is away from us."

Grissom nodded his head. "Our scientists determined its exact location in space when the Colonials shared their star charts with us." Grissom remembered the debriefing he had with those scientists.

"Did they also mentioned that the Cyrannus system has no Mass Relay?" The Admiral gibed Grissom.

Grissom nodded his head. "Yes, they also confirmed that." Answered Grissom. "A year ago, that would have been difficult until now."

Grissom brings up information on the holo screen. "Before first contact with the Colonials, FTL traveled relied heavily on the Mass Relays due to the instantaneous travel it provided us." Grissom retelling the tale of his experience with the Mass Relays. "Not to mention Standard FTL travel would take months to a year to travel to another star system."

The Admirals nodded their heads in understanding.

"When we met the Colonial's and gain access to their Jump drive technology we gained a bigger advantage we never had before." Remarked Grissom at the meeting with the Colonials when they gave the Alliance access to newer technology. "And thanks to Qian studies of the Cylons technology, we also made improvements."

Cylon Jump drives are three times more efficient than their Colonial counterparts, also their Jump drives don't consume as much fuel as the Colonials does. Add the technological upgrades from the Alliance and you have a superior better Jump drive than both races had from the beginning.

While this upgraded version was impressive to the Admirals they feel a journey to Cyrannus was not only dangerous but also not feasible considering the constant attacks by the Cylons.

"While all this is interesting I feel that the journey to the Cyrannus system to study a gas giants' radiation that may or may not help us in the long run is worth diverting resources or assets." Replied the Admiral who has been the most opposition in this meeting.

"There is more to gain by travelling there." Stated Grissom going into further detail. "From what we have gained from the Colonials has changed our technology in new and better ways and there is more to discover by going to the Cyrannus system."

The Admirals suddenly realized where Grissom was going with this. "A salvage operation?" asked an Admiral. "To see if there is anything else worth acquiring."

Grissom nodded his head. "Since the introduction of the Jump drives we had to use a new form of fuel called tylium." Explained Grissom as he brings up information at each Admirals seat in hologram form.

Tylium is a material used to fuel the FTL systems of Colonial and Cylon spacecraft. At least three forms exist: tylium ore, refined tylium precursor, and refined tylium (the fuel itself).

Typically, tylium ore is mined from asteroids and is apparently not found on planets. Large tylium ore deposits can keep fleets fueled for years. In its raw form, tylium is a relatively fine, powdery substance that is liquefied and refined by refinery ships. Care needs to be taken to not introduce impurities into the fuel, which can cause engine malfunctions.

According to the Colonials, tylium has the following characteristics:

Tylium ore is rendered inert and unusable when exposed to nuclear radiation

Refined tylium precursor is more unstable and much easier to ignite than the finished fuel itself

Refined tylium has a tremendous enthalpy to the order of approximately half a million gigajoules per kilogram, or about 6 times greater than uranium-235 and 81% that of deuterium fusion.

A tylium detonation results in no radioactive fallout.

Pure tylium can be easily detonated by a conventional warhead. Moreover, igniting fuel lines on spaceships usually quickly result in their loss. The fuel can also be used to construct improvised mines.

The introduction of tylium by the colonials forced the Alliance to begin a massive search for deposits in nearby systems asteroid belts. This has made the Alliance hiring corporations to make the journey themselves like Eldfell-Ashland Energy to mine and process tylium.

"This has only caused us more problems." Said the Admiral as he points out the need for resources. "We can't strike back at the enemy until we have a source of fuel for our ships."

"And that source can be anywhere along the path they got here." Reiterated Grissom making a point to push forth this journey. "We need this now more than ever."

As the Admirals began thinking it over some were convinced on the idea others were more concerned about the safety of their colonies.

"If we do this, who do we send and what ship do we send them in?" Asked an Admiral very concerned about this operation.

Grissom activated the holo projector. "Allow me to introduce a new class of ship we developed along with the Colonials." Answered Grissom with pride in his voice. "A stealth Frigate."

Alliance Building

Outside of Conference Room

Outside the conference room, Captain Shepard was waiting for the meeting of the Admirals to end as Grissom ordered hm to be here in Vancouver during the meeting. As Shepard was waiting outside, he was looking out of the big long window that stretched throughout the hall way. Shepard could see far and wide considering they were in a tall building. The one thing he enjoyed watching was the families enjoying the day with their kids, it reminded him of his own family.

As Shepard was reminiscing of home, the doors to the conference room opened and out came the Admirals. Some mis-pleased by the meeting then others. Soon Grissom walked and joined Shepard.

"Walk with me." Said Grissom as the two walk down the hall way. "We have good news Shepard and bad news."

Shepard already knew about the bad news. "We lost three ships at Eden Prime."

Grissom looked at Shepard not surprised that he already knew. "Word travels fast around here."

"The Cylons have everyone on edge sir." Implied Shepard at everyone's fear of being nuked. "They did destroy 12 planets and killed billions of humans."

"That won't happen to us." Said Grissom determined to not let the Cylons from destroying Earth. "We have a plan."

Shepard was surprised to hear this and wanted to ask, but before he could they reached the elevators.

Both men walked inside, and Grissom placed his palm on a scanner. "Level 20." He said to the computer.

The doors to the elevator closed and soon it began going down the building passed the first floor and into the ground.

Level 20

Level 20 was a secret Alliance facility for the purpose of evacuating the Admirals in case of an attack. In this level ships were docked for an emergency exit; the roof of the level can be retracted to release the ships.

Here two ships that didn't match Alliance colors were stationed, Grissom lead Shepard to one of these ships. Both men were looking at them at a safe distance.

Shepard could see the ships are an Alliance frigate design by standards but the color of the ship all around was black.

"May I ask about the new paint job sir?" Inquired Shepard confused by the color.

Grissom turns to face Shepard. "The color is based off the materials we recreated from the Colonials blackbird." Answered Grissom. " The black-colored carbon composite materials make it largely undetectable by DRADIS and unaided visual viewing."

"Didn't chief Tyrol built that black bird?" Questioned Shepard surprised they were using a known Cylons creation. "What became of Tyrol?"

Grissom took a deep breath. "After the battle of Shanxi and the crew of the Galactica survived the crash, Chief Tyrol was taken into custody and revealed his true existence to him."

This made Shepard think heavily on the issue, being told that you were a Cylon when in your mind you believed you were human. The sudden realization of the truth could break any man down.

"I assume the truth didn't sit well with him?" Asked Shepard, but he knew the answer already.

"Let's just say we had to restrain him." Replied Grissom and ended it there. "But what he gave us is now being put to good use."

Hearing this made Shepard realized this was a huge advantage they had over the Cylons. "So, a stealth frigate?"

Grissom nodded his head. "Bigger than that blackbird they built, but it's not a hundred percent stealth." Said Grissom as he points out problems. "The heat emissions from the ship can still appear on the enemy DRADIS."

While this was a concern it still gave the Alliance an advantage. "The materials themselves must be delicate if its carbon based."

Grissom nodded his head. "It would have been if not for the Mass Effect field's we have creating evenly-blended alloys to smoothly apply on the frigates."

"I assume there's a reason for building just these two ships?" Shepard wondered as he contemplates their prupose.

"We don't have enough materials to build a whole fleet of these." Began Grissom as he explained to Shepard. "Also, with the Cylons continued use of nukes, it was decided to build thicker armor plating to protect our officers from radiation as kinetic barriers can't block that."

"Then I assume these two ships are a part of the plan you mentioned?" Shepard looking at Grissom expecting an answer.

Before Grissom could say a word two officers walked over to where Grissom and Shepard were at.

"Admiral Grissom." Said the first officer saluting his superior. "Reporting for duty."

Grissom turn to face the man. "Captain Ahern." Responded Grissom as he saluted back. "Glad you came now we can begin." Said Grissom delighted to have all the pieces in place as he gestures for both men to follow him.

WAR

Room

A war room was built into level 20 to be able to coordinate all operations and maintain hard lines of communications with other facilities on the planet and in the system.

Shepard and Ahern followed Grissom to the holo table, both men were surprised to see so much considering all this was highly classified.

"Gentlemen." Started Grissom as he activates the holo table. "I asked both of you here to assign you on highly important missions."

Shepard and Ahern focused now on what Grissom was going to say.

"In the past year we have encountered an enemy hell bent on Humanities extinction." Asserted Grissom of the Cylon threat that all three know very well. "The Alliance needs resources, but above all we need a swift victory."

"I assume those stealth frigates are part of some plan to push the Cylons out of our territory?" Prodded Ahern for any information. Being one of a few who has engaged the Cylons on Shanxi and made it through the hell, he was promoted for his efforts.

"In a manner of speaking." Responded Grissom as he brings up information on the holo table. "Captain Ahern you will take command of one of the stealth frigates and travel to the Cyrannus system to evaluate anything worth salvaging."

Ahern was taken back by this sudden assignment. "Sir the Cyrannus system is in controlled Cylon space." Remarked Ahern as he was not pleased by going into enemy territory. "Not to mention a frigate won't last much against a swarm of enemy Raiders."

"That's where the stealth capabilities come in, Captain." Shot back Grissom not pleased with Ahern's hesitation. "The Stealth frigate was designed to enter enemy territory and acquire intel on their operations."

Ahern nodded his heads. "Sorry Admiral, I didn't mean to overstep my bounds." Apologized Ahern.

Grissom nodded his head and moved on. "As for Captain Shepard your mission is one of exploratory." Exclaimed Grissom surprising all three men.

Shepard had to voice his opinion on the matter. "Sir given our current situation can we even afford to spare resources in exploration?" Shepard said doubtfully the Alliance can spare anything given the constant attacks by the Cylons.

Grissom shook his head. "This isn't a full-blown exploration, Shepard." Grissom explaining the whole plan. "You'll be on your own out there with enough supplies to last you for two years."

Shepard was surprised to hear this. "On my own, Sir?"

Grissom nodded his head. "Ever since we met the Colonials and gain access to much of their technology, but also their culture, history and religion." Noted Grissom of the exchange they received from the Colonials. "Specifically, their sacred scrolls our historians, philosophers, and scientists have been deciphering their meaning."

"I thought much of what is written in those scrolls are a bunch of hog wash, sir." Ahern mocked at the thought of prophecies and prophets these people believed in. "Do they really believe this stuff?"

Grissom shrugged unsure of it himself. "Whether real or not, if there is a planet containing another group of humans that are on a technological level like the Colonials then we need to find them." Grissom emphasized urgently. "We need allies against the Cylons."

Shepard then put the pieces together. "So, my mission is to find this supposed Thirteenth tribe?"

Grissom nodded his head. "You'll take command of the frigate and find this other… colony." Grissom hesitating to say another Earth. "You will use the information the Colonials have and track back on the path they were going to go, before meeting us."

"I assume a crew has already been chosen for me?" Shepard asked crossing his arms not pleased with not making his decisions.

"All of the crew except for your away team." Responded Grissom. "I was going to leave that up to you!"

Shepard was pleased to hear this. "I will begin right away."

Grissom nodded his head and said one las thing before he dismissed them. "I don't know what you both will find out there on your long journeys, but remember you're on your own out there." Grissom strictly Reiterated. "There won't be any back up or Alliance command to give you orders on something unexpected you come across."

Both men understood the situation and what is at stake for the Alliance. "We understand, Sir." Both men responded at the same time.

Grissom nodded his head dismissed both Captains.

Outside

War

Room

Outside of the War room, Shepard and Ahern stopped to have a friendly chat. "So, this mission of ours sounds like its going to be dangerous." Stress Ahern at being behind enemy lines.

"More so for you than me." Shepard gibed at Ahern. "You'll be behind enemy lines."

Ahern chuckled and shook his head. "Is that what you think?" Protested Ahern as he leans back. "My mission may put me in harms way, but if you screw up in first contact with another group of Humans you could be dragging the Alliance into another war."

Shepard didn't realized the severity of the situation he was in, until Ahern pointed it out to him and it put even more pressure on Shepard. "Thanks for not making it even more difficult for me now."

Ahern chuckled at Shepard's grim demeanor on his face. "Come on lets go get a drink before were on duty full time."

Shepard and Ahern headed1 for the elevators to travel back up to the surface.

Alliance Shuttle

On board the shuttle Ahern and Shepard took to travel to the city, Shepard was looking at a live broadcast of the Alliance News Network (ANN). The ANN is not funded by the Alliance itself despite the name and it was originally a low budget news agency, but given that they were the ones who went to Shanxi to cover the battle that took place their network surged in popularity.

Today ANN was covering the meeting between the President of the twelve colonies and members of the Qurom of twelve with the United Nations to petition for them to take part in political affairs that affect all humans regardless of where they came from.

Shepard met the president of few times during the whole Shanxi incident and while he was surprise that she was secretary of education bumped up to presidency during a time of great turmoil for the Colonials, he had given her his respect to maintain the civilian fleet the way she did.

Shepard could only hope her success in meeting with the United nations ends peacefully.

Earth

New York

UN Headquarters

General Assembly

In the General Assembly of the UN Headquarters, President Roslin along with three members from the Qurom of twelve were present to petition the UN to accept them as equal members.

For Roslin this has been a long time coming considering their first contact with Earth there have been issues lingering within the Colonials that needed to be settle first before meeting. Originally there was suppose to be an election, but Gaius Baltar dropped out of the race, many Colonials don't know why, but only a few knew the real reason. With no one to compete, Roslin won by default and announced this will be her last years as President.

Roslin was looking out the window in the UN building seeing how far the Alliance has come compared to them. But all their advancements came from the discovery of alien technology that has leaped them forward past them.

As she was taking in the view, a man from the UN interrupted her moment. "President Roslin."

She turn to face the gentlemen standing before her. "Mr. Connoy!" Roslin acknowledging the man. "What's the answer."

The look on Connoy's face said it all. "Your petition for a seat amongst us is difficult considering membership requires contributions."

Roslin felt offended by this. "Have we not contributed nothing at all?" She questioned with anger in her voice. "We shared our technology with the Alliance."

"With all due respect madam President what you offered us was repayment for allowing the Cylons an enemy you created for occupying one of our colonies." Said Connoy objectively. "You can maintain your government on Demeter but enforcing any laws outside your jurisdiction is forbidden."

Roslin crossed her arms visibly upset by this. "Will we still be given humanitarian aid?" Roslin asked out of necessity as the population of the colonials, while meager 50,000 people was still a lot of mouths to feed.

Connoy nodded his head. "Of course, and naturally your citizens have their independence from any laws on Earth, but anyone visiting any colony or Earth itself are held by the same laws the Alliance has placed on them."

Roslin nodded her head in understanding. There was a similar system when someone from Caprica visited another colony like Tauron, they had to uphold to the same laws of that colony.

"Thank you for the taking the time to hear our request." Roslin glumly said as she felt defeated.

Connoy walks away leaving Roslin thinking of what to do next.

Colonial

Embassy

Meeting Room

The Colonial Embassy was created by the Alliance for the Colonials to begin and maintain diplomatic relations on Earth and as an Embassy it is held with the same rules as any other embassy.

Roslin and the Qurom returned defeated and feeling humiliated. In the meeting room they were discussing their next plan.

"So now what do we do?" asked the Tauron representative.

"Not much we can do, if we don't bring something to them." Replied Caprica representative.

"There must be something we can offer them then what we already have." Chimed in the Aquaria representative.

As the three continue to ponder on ideas, Roslin sits there listening in and thinks that anything they have is not really worth much.

As the four sits around the table arguing a man that many knew well especially Roslin walks in surprising all of them.

"Hope I'm not interrupting this meeting." Said Tom Zerak representative for Sagittaron, a former terrorists turned politician after the fall of the colonies and former running mate for Gaius Baltar.

Roslin was shocked to see him considering he was not amongst the Colonials brought to Earth for this meeting. "How did you get here?" Roslin demanding to know. "Only a select few were chosen to come here."

Zerak showed off his charismatic smile as he always does when he has the upper hand. "You'd be surprised the kind of friends I can make." Zerak bragging his eloquent personality. "But from what I hear you weren't so good at convincing the UN to allow Colonial involvement into their world organization."

There was an awkward silence as the Qurom members looked back and forth at Roslin and Zerak.

Roslin seeing this could not show weakness. "It's a small bump, but things will turn around." Roslin lamenting her resolve. "The Colonials will have a voice again."

Zerak takes a seat at the table. "And how long you think that will take?" He asked humoring her. "I say never, unless we have someone to help push our agendas and needs to the table."

Everyone in the room began wondering what Zerak means, before anyone could ask a man walked into the meeting room surprising everyone.

"Allow me to introduce President Ricardo of the Union of Incorporated Nations." Zerak said with a smile.

Arcturus Stream

Euler System

Yukawa

Yukawa Facility

The Euler System one of two systems in the Arcturus Stream, was home to one of the Alliances colonies, Benning that supplies food to Arcturus Station. The planet Yukawa is a small rock planet with a thin atmosphere of carbon dioxide. After a labor dispute with companies shipping metallic asteroids to the nearby Arcturus system, Yukawa's iron core and blanket of hematite were briefly mined to aid in the construction of Arcturus Station. Yukawa's reputation as "the scab planet" persists to this day, as its other resources are not particularly notable.

The planet wasn't worth much to the Alliance in terms of resources, but it had a purpose and that purpose was the creation of a facility to continue Cylon research.

The Yukawa facility was created in the post Shanxi battle for Doctor Qian and his science team to continue researching the Cylons. After the battle of Shanxi anything Cylon related was shipped to this facility, which included, Centurions, Human form Cylons, Raiders, Heavy Raiders, and pieces of Cylon Basestars. Each component was carefully examined in case it had a transmitter planted on it.

Here in this facility Qian was examining two new specimens he received from the battle, two dead human form Cylons, a two and a four. Qian wanted to research into the male human form Cylons and was hoping to capture some alive, but he would have to suffice in dead ones.

As he was examining the males, Baltar walked in on him, under armed guard. "Still continuing studying the males?" He asked cringing at the naked Cylons on the table.

Qian looked away from what he was doing and stared at Baltar; here is where Doctor Gaius Baltar was brought after the Alliance presented evidence against him that he was indirectly responsible for the twelve colonies downfall. Baltar was at the mercy of the Alliance, in exchange for not revealing this to the rest of the Colonial people he was forced to drop out of the race for presidency of the colonies and placed under armed guard while helping the Alliance with Cylon research.

"What's a matter Doctor Baltar prefer the Females?" Qian jabbed at Baltar after learning he was seduced by a Six to gain access to the Colonial mainframe that made the Colonial military defenseless.

Baltar hearing this ignored his mockery and continued. "Some of the scientists are beginning the dissection of the Raiders and Heavy Raiders." Baltar informing Qian of the next procedure, in studying the biomechanical technology the Cylons have created.

"Excellent, I'll be right there." Said Qian as he finishes examining the males.

Communications Room

In the communications room, Qian was reporting to the Alliance at Arcturus station. "Research is progressing on schedule." Said Qian very pleased with his team's efforts. "The biomechanical technology is unlike anything I've seen before."

On the other end of the communications was Admiral Drescher as Admiral Grissom was currently on Earth, Arcturus Station was in her command. "Any weakness we can exploit?" asked Drescher still feeling upset during the battle when her dreadnought was damaged severely.

"Nothing so far, but were working on it." Said Drescher as he continued reporting in. "As for the two male Cylons we received we have learned they have the same reproductive capabilities as humans, but again are incapable of making Cylon children."

Drescher lifted her hands to her chin thinking what was just said. "According to the intelligence we acquired after the battle and what Captain Thrace told us about Cylon research their trying to restart their project on making Cylon children, but have failed with Human women." Griped Drescher utterly disgusted at this kind of experiment.

Qian knew all about that research and from his studies, with the exception of Hera Agathon there doesn't seem to be capable of procreating amongst the Cylons with themselves or with Humans. The whole concept of love was not logical to Qian and dismissed the success of Hera as being that.

"I have my reservations on Cylon reproductive capabilities for now." Said Qian putting his best effort as a scientist. "Until further evidence suggest other wise the Cylons in my opinion are capable, but some genetic factor is inhibiting their ability for reproduction."

Drescher nodded her head and moved on from the subject as it was disturbing to her. "What of the three Cylon prisoners you have on you?" Inquired Drescher concerned the facility was ill equipped to handle prisoners.

Qian had a sadistic smile on his face as he was pleased with himself. The three prisoners were the three captured on the fleet. D'anna Biers a three, Gina Inverie a six, and another six posing as a prostitute on the fleet. The three were taken here after the facility was built to continue interrogations and also to permit scientific experimentations.

Normally the Geneva conventions prohibit the experimentations on prisoners of war, but the conventions was made for human life and not artificial life like the Cylons. Although some protesters would argue that any life capable of sentient thought has the same rights as a human being. To prevent any discord or unrest on Earth or the colonies the experiments were kept a secret by the Alliance.

"I'm happy to say we moved on to experimentations on two of the prisoners." Remarked Qian of the plan he moved into motion.

Drescher had confused look on her face. "Why only two?" asked Drescher surprised to hear this.

Qian had a reluctant look on his face. "Doctor Baltar was persuasive to Grissom allowing the Cylon known as Gina Inverie to be exempt from experimentation due to two reasons." Said Qian not pleased with losing a lab rat for his research. "One she suffered horrific atrocities during her time as a prisoner on the Pegasus when it was in command of the late Admiral Cain."

Drescher remembered reading that report about Cain and what she allowed her men to do. As an officer and a woman, she could not condone such actions and saw that the Cylon albeit was responsible for the deaths of billions of humans on the colonies, no one deserved that kind of punishment. "And the second reason?"

"Doctor Baltar has had some success in acquiring information out of this particular model in the past." Said Qian not too convinced himself. "The Alliance is hoping she will continue to provide any other useful information."

Drescher nodded her head. "Very well, just maintain the highest level of security if were going to keep her around." Cautioned Drescher as she is aware that human form Cylons are a little stronger than regular humans. "Also, Doctor we will be sending you something we discovered in the remains of the Destroyed Cylon ships that blew up over Eden Prime."

This peeked Qian interested. "What is it this time?" He asked in delight. "Any new human form Cylons I haven't studied yet."

Drescher shook her head. "Not exactly." Answered Drescher. "We're sending you a Cylon Hybrid for study."

Qian was shocked and speechless at the same time, a Cylon Hybrid is considered to be the brain of a Basestar as they are living computers that manage the autonomous functions of Basestar's, including navigation, propulsion (especially faster-than-light) and climate control.

"Is it intact?" He asked Hoping it would be for his research.

Drescher shook her head. "No, the Basestar blew up." Drescher said in annoying tone of voice. "We we're surprised it survived when it was floating amongst the wreckage."

Qian sighed. "I hope one day I can actually see one up close in working order." Qian said to his delight at studying a Hybrid up close one day.

"Until that day Doctor continue your research, Drescher out." And in that moment Drescher ended communications leaving Qian to continue his work.

Demeter

Alliance Garrison

Female Locker Room

The colony of Demeter was Earths first extrasolar colony and the place where the Colonials could finally settle down and rebuild their society.

After the Battle of Shanxi and the Colonials taking a breather it was decided by the Alliance that the Colonial military would integrate into the Alliance. Any Colonial officer on both the Galactica and Pegasus could choose to remain in service and any years of service in the Colonial military would be transferred over into the Alliance.

Many Colonial officers felt the war with the Cylons wasn't over and chose to integrate into the Alliance.

In the female locker room, a very well-known pilot amongst the Colonials was getting dressed in her new Alliance uniform.

"Blue is a little to much if I had to say so myself." Said Kara Thrace as she examines herself in front of the mirror. After she was finished she was ordered to join the rest of the Colonials onboard the Pegasus.

Demeter

Orbit

Pegasus

CIC

After the battle at Shanxi the Pegasus returned to the makeshift drydocks near Arcturus to repair damages and to overhaul some outdated technology and replace it with newer technology. The Pegasus was given an upgraded version of Kinetic Barriers to protect itself better.

In the CIC on the Pegasus the crew once a part of the Colonial fleet are now dressed in the Alliance uniform and flying with the Alliance symbol painted on the ship.

Lee Adama was dressed in his officers' uniform and looking at his crew all working hard. As he walks up to the command and control center where he directs his people on the CIC. "Lieutenant Hoshi how is it coming with the last batch of raptors from the planet?" Asked Lee as he wants to get moving as fast as possible.

Hoshi listens form his station monitoring the traffic. "ETA 3 minutes." Responded Hoshi.

Lee nodded his heard pleased to hear that. "As soon as all of them are onboard safely and secured prepare countdown for jump to Earth." Ordered Lee as he continues back to work.

As Lee was looking over the supply manifests and crew, his XO Major Kendra Shaw arrived. "Commander Adama." She said Saluted her superior officer.

Lee saluted back to his XO. "Nice of you to join us Major." Said Lee while looking at her new uniform. "How are you adjusting to the new uniform?"

Shaw was a little uncomfortable to be wearing a different outfit other than her Colonial one. "I'll manage sir." She said not giving it a moment's thought.

"Good to hear." Said Lee pleased to know that his crew can put the emotions aside and be respectable in their new military command. "Because we're to head to Earth, I want everyone to be on they're best behavior when we get there."

As soon as Lee finished the countdown to jump began and at the end the Pegasus disappeared in a bright light leaving their new home.

Sol System

Earth

Orbit

Washington Shipyard

Locker Room

On the Washington shipyard a veteran of the Cylon war and the man who led the fleet to a new home was putting on his new Alliance uniform. On the uniform was the Admiral symbol etched into the clothing as he examines the symbol, a very well-known man walks into the locker room.

"I hope its to your liking Admiral!" Said Grissom as he was the one who handed Adama's new uniform personally. "We made sure to put on the Admiral's symbol on the clothing."

Adama sighed heavily. "I knew one day I would retire from the military." Commented Adama remembering when he almost took a desk job on the colonies instead of commanding the old rust bucket Galactica for the last remaining year. "I just never thought that I would be wearing a new military uniform serving under a new military."

Grissom nodded his head, he too was going to retire himself, but the call to war prompted him to stay on. "As much as we would like to take it easy and relax, we're going to need every experienced soldier and officer to help end this war."

Adama turns around away from the mirror he was examining himself in. "Understand that my people won't forget what you did for us." Adama said being sincere. "We will see to it that the Cylons don't do to Earth or her colonies like they did to ours."

Grissom felt strong emotions coming from those words and felt confident that Humanity together can push back the Cylons.

"Come the Ceremony is about to start." Said Grissom and two men walk out of the locker room.

Washington Shipyard

Observation Room

In the observation room, a larger room designed for the press and other ceremonial events, was the place where Colonials dressed in Alliance uniform and the Alliance personnel along with ANN covering the event was gathered today to celebrate the fifth Mars-class Battlestar that was going to be under Adama's command

As soon as Grissom and Adama came walking out of the doors silence came over the observation room and the two walked up to the podium.

"Hello everyone." Started Grissom as he begins a small speech. "One year ago, the System Alliance made first contact with a long-lost tribe of Humans that came from a star system far away running from an enemy that sought humanities destruction."

There was a lot of whispers going around as many people from the Alliance and Earth felt that the Colonials brought this war to their door step. Grissom wasn't going to let these people ruin a good day and was going to shine a brighter light on the Colonials.

"Now most of you feel that this enemy we now face is due to the Colonials, but I feel as though the Systems Alliance would have eventually encountered this enemy and thankfully we met the Colonials first before the Cylons." Grissom putting a positive outlook on their first contact. "Through collaboration with our new allies we have been given the means to not only fight back against the Cylons, but explore the galaxy far further than the Relays could ever take us before. Ladies and Gentlemen, I like to present to you, Human innovation and the fifth line with many more to come, the Galactica."

In that moment the outside blast doors opened showing everyone in the room of the next Alliance Battlestar. It was colored in the same gray color as Battlestar's but painted with Alliance colors and symbol on the ship, with the name Galactica on the side.

The press were taking pictures as well as camera men broadcasting live for everyone on Earth to see and with a thunderous roar from the audience as applause echoed throughout the observation room Grissom ended his speech.

As soon as everything calm down refreshments were served for everyone attending this ceremony.

Over in the corner Kara Thrace and Lee Adama were eating some of Earths finest food. "Have to say these thirteenth tribe people know how to make food at least." Said Kara munching down on some chicken she retrieved at the table.

"Not to mention the refreshments." Said Lee as he drinks some champagne. "It's not as strong as what were used to, but it does have its perks."

As lee and Kara were enjoying the festivities, a familiar face showed up to greet them. "Glad to see both of you enjoying yourselves."

Lee and Kara turn to face the man and to Lee and Kara's delight it was Shepard. "Shepard, glad to see you again." Said Lee shaking hands with Shepard.

"Wouldn't miss this for the world." Shepard smiled as he takes in the scene. "So how does this compare to your events?"

Lee and Kara looked at each other before answering. "Let's just say when there is an event between the flight crew and other members of the ship on Galactica, it won't be as clean or fancy as this." Grinned Kara remembering some the best times they had.

As the three enjoyed the conversation, Shepard glanced over to where Grissom was. "Oh no." Shepard said displeased.

"What?" Pondered Lee surprised to see Shepard's mood change.

"Looks like Admiral Grissom and Adama are being hounded by the media." Grunted Shepard not liking the media all that much.

Over where Shepard saw, ANN had a lot of questions for Grissom and was putting him through the ringer.

"Admiral Grissom, some have wondered if taking in the Colonials as the Alliance has done only made things worse for Earth and her colonies." Commented the reporter.

Grissom was prepared for any and all questions. "The Cylons destroyed the Colonials home because they were human and the last time I checked so were we." Quipped Grissom.

"What about allowing former members of a military that was not born on Earth or any of our colonies to be allowed integrated into the Alliance?" She prodded further trying to one up Grissom. "Some feel giving them complete access to our technology and resources seem disastrous!"

"They have the most experience of dealing with this enemy." Stated Grissom whole heartedly. "In fact, without they're assistance we would not know as much about the Cylons as we do now."

The reporter was feeling under pressure with every answer Grissom throws back at her. "Then can I assume that the new Mars class Battlestar will be crew by the Colonials?"

Grissom smiled and nodded his and looked at Adama. "It was named after a Colonial Battlestar that saved Shanxi and to honor our new allies." Grissom deflecting the answer. "But to answer your question it won't just be crew by Colonials, it will also be under the command of Admiral Adama."

All eyes were now on Adama as he looks at the reporter. "And as a new Admiral in the Alliance, I will uphold the standards the Alliance attest to with conviction and honor." Adama adding his own voice to the interview.

With that the reporter conceded and ended the questioning allowing for both men to take in the sweet victory together.

SSV

Galactica

CIC

On board the CIC, Grissom and Adama were the first Alliance officers to walk on board the Galactica. Both men stepped away from the event to get a breather.

The CIC took a radically different change then the old Jupiter class Battlestars. The biggest change was now that the ship is networked together, and it wasn't necessary to have so many different stations for different departments as all the machines are fully automated. The design itself takes after the Mercury class, with a little Alliance ingenuity.

Adama looked at the new holographic control interface system the Alliance installed, his people and himself had to be implanted surgically with chips to interface with the technology directly.

"I have to say it looks a lot cleaner than the old Galactica." Marveled Adama at the sight of the CIC.

"We try to make it as fit for combat as possible." Grissom said as he approaches Adama. "This is the fifth Battlestar we've built, and it will take a while to build more."

Adama understood where Grissom was coming from, even in the colonies before the fall, the Colonial military was moving away from building Battlestars and was introducing the Valkyrie class as a more economical choice.

"Will have to make the most out of these ships then." Adama reassuring Grissom that he will put good use in the command they have given him.

"Now as for your crew." Started Grissom which Adama gave him a sharp look. "This Battlestar is designed to hold 2500 military personal, we don't have much to fill and even with all the surviving crew from the original Galactica transferring over it will be awhile to get use to these new systems."

Adama looked at Grissom intently. "You want to introduce Alliance personnel onto this ship." Adama asked plainly.

"You are missing some crucial applicants, Admiral." Stated Grissom which made Adama twitch in annoyance especially after learning about Chief Tyrol being a Cylon and detained for questioning.

Grissom nodded his head. "It was built by the Alliance." Grissom continued putting an emphasis on the Alliance. "It will be perfect step for both our people to get use to the integration process."

Adama thought it over and in reality he couldn't exactly refuse or deny them. "Understood." Said Adama reluctantly. "But will your Alliance officers be okay under my command?"

Grissom nodded his head. "They're trained professionals." Grissom taking pride in the officers the Alliance trained. "Now the question is about your executive officer."

Adama was concerned about this coming up. Saul Tigh his original XO has decided to end his career after the battle of Shanxi to help fix his marriage and settle down on the new settlement.

"The Alliance feels strongly that an officer from one of our people be put as second in command of the Galactica." Implored Grissom. "We feel it necessary to show everyone that a united humanity and Alliance is needed now more than ever."

Adama wanted to protest feeling that a Colonial officer makes more sense to have already as they have an understanding of how things work in Colonial standards. "Will I have a say in who I pick?" Adama Asked feeling a need to voice his concerns.

"I think you will approve of the officer we have chosen." Grissom asserted as he walks away from Adama and out of the CIC. While Adama stands alone in his new Battlestar feeling a swell of emotions.

Unknown

Star System

Cylon Colony

The Colony is a large biomechanical structure similar in composition to the basestars, a spaceborne Cylon homeworld.

Here the Cylons conduct strategy, research and to discuss their current situations in their usual meetings.

"The attack on Eden Prime was a failure." Complained Cavil as he slams his fists on the table. "Also, we lost two Basestars in the process."

"Were constructing new ones." Countered a three.

"And who will pilot them?" gibed Cavil angry at what they are reduced too. "More Centurions that can't think without us directing them."

After the battle of Shanxi when the Cylons were dealing with a new weapon the Alliance use against them caused a number of human Cylons to be catatonic from downloading incorrectly. It was decided that all Cylon Basestars were to be piloted by Centurions, until a counter measure could be made to protect human Cylons as the mechanical ones are immune to this effect.

"How goes the research on a counter measure?" Asked a two changing the subject.

The four shook his head. "I have done autopsies on the ones affected, but can't determine how it was done or how to prevent it next time."

The one sighed heavily and feeling angry. "Then what about you, five?" Cavil shifting his anger on a five wanting good news.

The five looked around the room. "We managed to find a source of element zero for further study and research." Five responding to Cavil's, jab at him. "Given enough time I will be able to integrate this new element into our technology and deal the Alliance a blow."

"Better make it fast five." Eight said urgently. "From the last engagement, the Alliance has already begone building Battlestars."

This caused many around to be concern, if the Alliance manages to build a whole fleet of Battlestars combine with their technology they will lose more Basestars then they can replace.

"Then I best get on it immediately." Said the five as he leaves the meeting room.

As soon as the five left a six brought up peace talks once again. "Is negotiating for peace still out of the option?"

Cavil looked at her in disgust. "After what they did to our kind you really think I will settle anything less than their extinction."

"What they did to us?" She asked in shock. "What about what you tried to do to them?"

Cavil snickered at the question as if he needed to look at his actions before complaining about Humanities. "I will never stop until their all gone."

This left the models feeling uncomfortable as each ones leaves the room, leaving Cavil to himself.

Sol

System

Earth

Australia

Sydney

Alliance Building

Conference Room

Deep in the Alliance controlled building a meeting was taking place in secret from most of the Alliance personnel.

In the conference room General Williams was brining to the attention of Admirals, Generals and other superior officers.

"After the battle of Shanxi, it showed how much the Alliance is ill prepared for what might be out there waiting for us." Stressed Williams.

This made many in the conference room think about what Williams said carefully. It was true the unexpected Cylon attack caught the Alliance off guard and made them wonder after the Cylons what could be around the corner next for them. The Alliance knew that Aliens existed from the Prothean ruins on mars, does this mean something worse could be heading their way.

"What do you recommend General?" asked an Admiral.

Williams clasped his hands together on the table and lean in close. "Earth, her Colonies, and Humanity needs a watch dog, to defend us against enemies locally and beyond."

"You want us to create what, a black ops organization?" Questioned a General.

Williams nodded his head. "After what I saw on Shanxi we need an organization that is not hammered down by Alliance regulations." Stressed Williams strongly urging the people in front of him. "We need someone to take care of threats before they become to big of a problem."

"And what will you call this organization?" Asked an Admiral.

Williams leaned back in his chair. "Cerberus."

Sol System

Saturn

Orbit

Space Station

On board the space station, a man was sitting in his chair smoking a cigarette and drinking bourbon as he awaits the call from a friend.

After a while the call came. "Tell me the good news?" He asked stoically as he was hoping for nothing.

"Your good to go." Said Williams proudly. "But if you're caught the Alliance will disavow any knowledge of you."

"I'm not concern about that." Declared the man as he continues taking a sip from his drink. "Just let me take care of the rest, goodbye."

In that moment he ended the call, two figures emerged from the shadows, the man turning around in his chair to face them.

"It's time." He said in a sinister way. "It's time for Cerberus to begin."

So everything is progressing to full scale war and many are wondering what has happened to other characters that didn't make it into this chapter, you will just have to wait and see. Now some of you are wondering why they are sending Shepard to find this thirteenth tribe, well they assume its another human colony out there and don't know it was destroyed. As for the Alliance sending a team to the gas giant Ragnar any weakness they can exploit they will study it despite the radiation taking a long time to affect human cylons. Also as you can see the SA is making battlestars of their own, as well as upgrading the Viper and Raptor classes, I didn't put the specifications in this chapter, in later chapters you will see what these new upgrades will look like, for now enjoy the codex below on the Mars class.

Codex: Mars Class BattleStars

Mars Class battlestars are the culmination of both Alliance and Colonial engineers combining the best aspects of both technologies into one giant killing machine, design to fight the Cylons Basestars. Modeled after the mercury class, but redesigned to incorporate Alliance technology into its framework the Mars class is a force to be reckoned with as any Basestars meeting this new Battlestar will face utter terror.

Specifications:

Crew: 2500+

Length: 5872 feet

Width: 3200 feet

Height: 2800 feet

Engine: Alliance reversed engineer Colonial FTL, Mass Effect Drive core, 8 Antiproton thrusters and maneuvering thrusters

Shields: Kinetic barriers

Armament: Two Mass accelerators, 34 primary batteries, 24 GARDIAN lasers, 24 twin turrets, 24 missile tubes

Complement: Viper Mk VIII, Raptor A

Aviation facilities: 2x flight pods, 4x flight decks, 80x Viper launch tubes, Viper construction facilities

Other Systems: Artificial gravity, electronic countermeasures, Haptic adaptive interface