Rose was shaking, he was angry and he felt helpless, and though he had felt these feelings before he still didn’t like them. It was early now two or three in the morning, but Rose now knew that he wouldn’t be able to go to bed anytime soon.

It had happened swiftly, while Parker was on his way back to the Bridge to inform the Captain of their process he had came across Diana and Ryo. After getting help from Medical and getting the two into the Sick Ward, Drake had ran to the Bridge and got there the same time as Christopher from Tech.

Now Rose after already listening to Drake was taking in what Christopher had to say. It wasn’t good and it was all a bit overwhelming.

" The device was set on a timer, which is actually a good thing. Had it been remote controlled it would have been harder to dismantle and remove," Christopher stopped and pushing up his black framed glasses spoke a little smugly, " Not impossible, mind you, just would have taken longer."

Rose sighed, " No one is questioning your abilities Meyers. Go on."

" After looking over the device we have determined that it is a class five-"

Rose held up an elegant hand, " Will any of the specifics help us, as lay people, understand the workings of this machine?"

Christopher raised his brows, " I suppose not. None the less it has been dismantled and we can track the serial number to the seller and manufacture at least. Then I suggest you have Federation Security Forces take it from there."

Just then Crystal stepped onto the Bridge and Christopher gave his wife a sweeping admiring glance. She had her hair down and she was frowning.

" What is it?" Christopher and Rose asked at the same time.

" That device..." she bit her bottom lip cutely, " it had a linking wire that was attached to the propulsion system of the ship. Thank God we found it when we did, it was set to interfere in three days."

" Interfere?" Cassidy asked timidly, not sure if she should cut into a conversation between the Captain and members of Tech Support.

Crystal looked over, " Explode. It would have blown out the system and it’s functions, the ship would be stalled."

Drake frowned, " Damn, someone hates us."

Rose looked grim, " Thank you...I have other matters to attend to. Please see to it that everything on your end will be done satisfactory."

Crystal and Christopher saluted then left the Deck. Rose spoke, " I am going to be in the Sick Ward should you need me. Ensign Parker, take care of the ship for me," he was gone before Parker had the chance to say ‘yes Sir’.

***

Upon stepping through the doors the Head Surgeon rushed to Captain Rose’s side, she knew exactly why he was there. She wasted no time getting to the point.

" The G’nar’s weapons are just as ancient as their ships," as the doctor talked she and Rose walked briskly to the back of the Ward to Intensive Care, " He used a pistol that he no doubt got from either Earth or one of her colonies. Needless it to say, I had to dig for bullets as oppose to cleaning up and repairing laser burns," they rounded a corner and stopped at a door with a keypad. The doctor entered a code and the door slid aside and the two stepped in to see two beds. One holding Ryo the other Diana.

Rose walked over to Ryo’s side and frowning pushed a strand of honey blond hair from his eyes. Sighing he spoke, " What are their injuries?"

The doctor stepped up beside the Captain, " Ensign Maclean is actually better off than Commander Spacey. Even though he was shot in the chest he was fortunate that the bullet missed his heart and lungs. Our biggest concern when he arrived here was the amount of blood loss. That has been rectified and after being cleaned and stitched up we gave him sedatives so he could rest. When he wakes he will be sore, but he will wake in a matter of days."

Rose turned then and faced Diana, " And the Commander?"

The doctor sighed, " She is worse off. She was shot in the stomach, leg and shoulder. The leg and shoulder wounds where easily dealt with, however, the stomach wound is much more dire. The bullet went all the way through. We repaired her stomach and her spinal chord, but we won’t know until she wakes up if she is going to be paralyzed or not."

Rose made a sound of pain from deep in his throat and griping the side of Ryo’s bed whispered, " I wish to be alone with them."

The doctor nodded, then left the room.

***

" No, Drake, that is the point!" J.J. was becoming more and more frustrated, " I really think it is necessary to find out how this thing came aboard! What if someone on the ship right now is involved!"

" He makes a good point," Crystal was staring dreamily at J.J.

Christopher saw the look in her eyes and sighing said, " Hello, you’re married."

" Hello, he’s gay," Cassidy chimed in, not bothering to look up from the pen she was dismantling.

Crystal’s eyebrows shot up in surprise, " Really?"

J.J. mearly shrugged.

" Back to the subject please!" Drake took a hearty swig of his water.

They, Cassidy, Parker, Adams, Meyers and White, all decided to go to the briefing room to discuss the found fire mechanism. Lars stayed on the Bridge to monitor the ship, the repairs from the attack where completed and they were set to take off tomorrow morning.

Drake asked, " When was there a time when enough people have been away from the ship that someone could get on?"

" We have been sitting on this pad awhile," Cassidy spoke.

" No, there was a fire in the same place before the attack," J.J. was doodling on a tablet, if you could call it that. It was a rather detailed picture of a woman with feathers in her flowing hair and sensual lips. He was talented indeed.

Drake looked over at the picture and raising an eyebrow stated, " We all got shore leave when we had to pick up Maclean."

J.J. stopped his pen and looked over at Parker, " Drake, I think you figured it out. Son of a..." his eyes went dark.

" Whoa now Jemmy," Drake knew what that look meant, " let’s not accuse Maclean of anything just yet."

" He’s the only one new to this ship!" J.J. slammed down his pen, " He brought on a duty bag as well as a personal duffel. It has to be him!"

Drake touched his friend’s shoulder, " Calm down. Let’s explore other avenues first..."

J.J. looked over at Drake and with a deep breath whispered through clinched teeth, "Fine."

" Okay, now let’s look at it from another angle. Maybe it was made by things already on the ship, I mean surely the security systems would have went off if someone other than crew boarded the ship," Drake ran his fingers through his hair.

" No," Christopher was playing with his wife’s fingers, " A person of great skill made that device, to bypass the security would be a cake walk."

Everyone sighed and silence took over the room. Then suddenly J.J. perked up, " I wonder if the Lieutenant would know something more, something we don’t know about the G’nar. He’s on a war ship now so I know he has more information than us!" and before anyone could object Adams had jumped up and left the room.

***

" Um...hello?" Dee was looking at his view screen, it was morning and he thought Ryo was trying to get in a quick morning call. Imagine his surprise and disappointment when he saw J.J.’s face instead of his dear lover’s.

" I am so sorry to be bothering you at this hour Lieutenant, however, I have an important question to ask you," J.J. tried to look professional, sitting rigid in his seat and speaking clearly.

" Go ahead," Dee let out a popping yawn, " just know that I’m getting ready as you talk," he had barely gotten any sleep last night, after hanging up with Ryo his commander had asked if he wanted to play a game of chess. However, tired Dee had accepted the invitation, now it was coming back to haunt him.

J.J. nodded then asked, " Is there any information that you could give us about the G’nar and their motive for declaring war?"

Dee was pulling a white tank over his head, " I have a question for you. Why are you asking me? Shouldn’t our commanders be having this conversation?"

J.J. bit his lip nervously. Laytner had a point and he had no idea how he was going to answer him. J.J. thought a little longer then decided to tell Dee the truth. Well, at least part of it, " Commander Spacey was in an accident and the Captain hasn’t left her side," J.J. was fairly certain Ryo had told Dee of Rose’s arrival, " A G’nar came to the ship and shot her. We need to know why the G’nar would target a cargo ship. Twice."

Dee had pulled his uniform top over his head and at J.J.’s words sat down and looked at the younger man. Sighing he spoke, " I really don’t know Adams. I can tell you the Gorren nation sold all ports to the Federation. I don’t know if that would help, but that is all I can give you."

" Thank you Lieutenant."

" Is that all Adams?" Dee frowned a bit, " Or is there more to this ‘accident’?"

J.J. blinked then stammered, " N-no! Why would you–"

" How’s Ryo?" Dee broke in features that of concern.

J.J.’s mouth fell open, " Maclean? Good I guess. We don’t talk you know."

Dee narrowed his eyes, " If I call him will that be the answer I get from him?"

" Damn I don’t know!" J.J. yelled in reaction to being pushed into a tight spot, " Call him and see!"

" I will," then the line went dead.

J.J. sat there stunned looking at the screen with wide eyes and parted lips. He realized it hurt to see just how much the Lieutenant cared for Ryo. He buried his face in his hands and resolved at that moment to let Dee go.

***

To the medical team’s surprise around four in the afternoon, Ryo woke up. He was sore and in pain, but he was speaking and alert. Rose had stood from his place in the arm chair and was now leaning over the blond.

" How are you?" Rose’s voice was smooth and caring.

Ryo smiled slowly and Rose quickly told the staff to go and that he would call them if there was a change in behavior. Then Berkely was sitting at the edge of Ryo’s bed.

He whispered softly, " How do you feel Randy?"

" Good, despite the pain in my chest," Ryo continued to smile and it became clear to Rose that Ryo’s mind was still a bit foggy from the sedatives.

" I was so worried about you..."

Ryo nodded then frowned, " The Commander...is she...?"

" No, no," Rose’s voice was still a kind whisper, " we will know more when she awakens," Rose ran his fingertips over Ryo’s jaw line.

Ryo closed his eyes and in a soft voice stated, " I thought I told you never to touch me."

Berkely chuckled, " So you did, however, you look so peaceful lying here," his fingers traveled across his skin to settle at his lips, " can you truly blame me?"

Ryo tried to scowl, but the medicine still left him slightly lethargic, " Don’t..."

" When I look at you," Rose had lowered himself, his lips inches from Ryo’s pale ones, "I can’t help myself..." he kissed Ryo then a slow, gentle assault that stunned Ryo. So different from his first dominate one. Berkely felt Ryo’s lips part and was thrilled that the young man was finally responding to his advances. Oh, how heartbreaking it was to feel the painful sting of a bite on his lip instead. Rose jerkedaway suddenly, the back of his hand going to his lip and he stared down with furrowed brows. Ryo, who’s drug induced smile has colored by the trail of Berkely’s blood, returned the gaze furiously.

Ryo’s tone was dark when he spoke, " You cannot find out the reason Diana was shot by spending time molesting me."

Rose smirked through his angry features, " The more you resist the more you tantalize me."

Ryo’s words fell from his mouth of there own volition, " You are not the one I want to tantalize."

Berkely’s eyes grew wide and the question was breathy with surprise, " What?" he couldn’t remember Ryo ever speaking of a love, " Who?"

Ryo’s eyes narrowed slowly, " I am tired. Go away Sir."

Rose did as he was told and leaving the Sick Ward was stopped in the hall by J.J., " We recieved a message from Federation HQ. They want us to go to the Gorren export docks in three days. Pick up a huge shipment and return it to Headquarters. The offical orders are going to be faxed to your office," J.J. turned on his heels to leave then turned abruptly, " By the way Sir. The Gorren sold their docking rights to the Federation instead of the G’nar. I am sure that is significant to the shooting of the Commander and Ensign Maclean."

Rose nodded, " Thank you, return to the Bridge and await my orders."

" Yes, Sir."

***

The fax had came by the time Berkely had stepped into his office. He ignored it, instead he opened his vid link and dialed a familiar number.

" Ah, long time no see Senator," the voice on the other end was ominous.

" Keep your voice down," Berkely scowled, " You have angered me. We never talked about violence."

" This is war Senator," the man laughed, " What other methods would we use?"

Rose growled, " This has gone too far, you were never supposed to declare war!" his fist hit the table, " We had an agreement."

" And we still do. Don’t worry, your chances of becoming Admiral have not been harmed," more laughter, " You have my word."

" Bah! That means nothing to me!" Rose glared at the man, " You gave me your word last time and still you almost killed someone dear to me."

The man on the other end blinked his blue eyes slowly, a sly smirk twisting his features, "Even we have heard the expression Senator ‘Never do business with a G’nar’," Rose disconnected the line but not soon enough to miss the triumphant laughter on the other end.

***

" Are you certain?" Commander Leslie Reynolds had risen from his seat, " Are you certain there could be no mistake?" he was actually trembling and when the answer came that what he was hearing was indeed true, he sank down into his seat, saddened. He would have to talk with Captain Rose about this...or better yet, the whole crew of ‘Glorious’.

***

" You have a phone call Ensign," a young nurse pulled the table tray around so that it was in front of Ryo and she placed a slim monitor on top of that. She turned it on then left the room.

When the Federation’s insignia faded away Dee Laytner’s face could be seen. Ryo sighed then spoke gently, " So I see someone told you about us..."

Dee shook his head, " I knew about the Commander...not you," he smiled, " How are you?"

Ryo chuckled a bit, " The drugs help."

Dee nodded with a smile, " Yes, those are good. Do you know how long until you can go back to work or..." Dee’s expression became grave, " or is it really bad?"

Ryo cocked his head and smiled, " It is not that bad. We are finally leaving the moon and they say that after blast off I will be released to my quarters. I am hoping by tomorrow or at least by the end of the week I will be able to work again."

Dee frowned shaking his head, " They will give you half days I am sure. Make sure all your scars are strong and won’t tear. Trust me they will–" suddenly Dee was interrupted by the intercom at his door. His Commander was speaking to him through it telling him to be in his office in five minutes. Dee frowned then answering back his understanding turned back to Ryo.

Ryo was looking up, listening to the intercom on 'Glorious', as his Captain asked for the Bridge crew to meet in the briefing hall in ten minutes. Then looking back down he locked eyes with Dee and frowned, " Guess I will be missing that."

" Just open a channel to the briefing hall and you can watch the proceeding from your hospital bed. The Captain can’t deny you that given you are part of the crew," Dee’s features went dark suddenly, " Speaking of which, how has that man been treating you?"

Ryo shrugged, " As can be expected..."

Dee visibly tensed, " What is that bastard doing to you!"

" Nothing, nothing," Ryo held up his hands and let out a nervous chuckle, " You need to get going anyway, we can talk about this later!"

" Ryo..." Dee held out his name in warning.

" Can’t talk you need to go," Ryo smiled at the face Dee was making, " You don’t want to be late!"

" Yeah, yeah," Dee grumbled, " I will talk to you later."

" Okay, bye Dee," as soon as the connection was cut Ryo did as Dee suggested and opened a link to the briefing hall. The face that greeted him was J.J. so he asked the man to position the monitor so he could see the whole room. Once that was done it was all about waiting until the meeting began.

***

Leslie was walking briskly to his office accompanied by Dee. Dee saw the grimness of his Commander’s features, but did not ask what was troubling him. Upon reaching the office Leslie locked the door and sitting at his seat finally addressed the Lieutenant.

" I have asked you to join in on this meeting because ‘Glorious’ is your former ship and the ship you will be returning to after this war," as he spoke the Commander was preparing his Vid-phone and straightening his desk, " I have requested a meeting with the crew of ‘Glorious’ and in a few minutes I will be getting a call from Captain Rose. I will answer all questions I can after our meeting with them, so for now act as though you have already been briefed."

Dee nodded then standing behind his Commander watched as the call came through and the meeting began.

" Hello, I am Commander Leslie Reynolds of the war vessel ‘Stetson’," the crew of ‘Glorious’ looked upon the distinguished face of the Commander and though all have seen him previously, just about everyone still felt as though they were in the presence of greatness. His dignity radiated, even through the large screen on the wall. His voice was strong as he spoke and it made everyone listen intently to his words, " I have asked Captain Rose for this moment to speak with you because information has come to me regarding your ship. I was informed by United Earth Federation it has come to the attention of law enforcement officials that about four months ago the blueprint of your ship was sent outside of the Alexis Solar System."

The Alexis Solar System is the name given to the system in which Earth and the other eight planets are in. Once it became known that there was life in other Systems the Celestial Assembly of Planets held a meeting and named them all for easier interaction between galaxies and their nations.

At Commander’s Reynolds words the crew of ‘Glorious’ let out a collective groan. However, the Commander ignored it and continued on, " They traced the blueprints and found that they went to the Sonorous System. Not only that but ‘Glorious’ import, export and docking agenda as well. As we all know the Sonorous System is home to the G'nar empire."

" What? How could something like this happen!" J.J. had risen from his seat slightly, but once he saw Leslie raise his hand smoothly he took his seat again.

" We, and by we I mean the Federation and myself, feel as though this is an obvious inside job. Someone within the Federation and possibly the Senate is a traitor," Leslie’sgray eyes flickered over briefly to Captain Rose and though the action was quick, given the size of the view screen everyone saw it. So everyone’s eyes scanned to look upon their Captain. Rose was solid, his eyes boring into Leslie’s a growing anger slowly building behind them.

Commander Reynolds ignored Rose and continued, " With this said I have a theory in mind. I know about the attack to Commander Spacey and Ensign Maclean. I also know that your ship would be the first one to pick up cargo from the Gorren nation's ports. A contract given to our Federation as opposed to the G’nar nation. I believe that the attack on your ship and to your crew members is solely meant to slow roll your ship. I believe that the G’nar is out to make your ship seem unreliable and in turn make the Gorren nation reconsider their contract with the Federation," Leslie took a sip of his water, " Again this is only a theory. None the less, the danger to your ship and crew is apparent and real. Therefore my ship will accompany you in route to your destination to the Gorren’s docks."

" That will be most appreciated," Captain Rose nodded his head in respect to the request although the glare in his eyes told of his lack of respect for the man.

Commander Reynolds nodded, " Very well it is settled. We will intersect with your ship in one and a half days. Thank you for your time. Captain that is all that I have for your crew."

" Very well," Captain Rose disconnected the link without the formal goodbye normally used to end a meeting. He frowned before placing his chin atop interlaced fingers, he didn’t even try to hide his anger. That briefing should never have been held before the entire crew. That information should have been given directly to him in the privacy of his own office. Commander Reynolds purposely wanted to plant suspicion within the crew. He wanted the crew of ‘Glorious’ to doubtRose's character and this enraged the Captain. So lost in his thoughts was he that he never noticed when the crew had departed the briefing room.

***

" Damn, you have some balls," Dee was sitting in the chair on the other side of the Commander’s desk.

" I know," the man ran his fingers through his white hair, " it was foolish of me."

" Nah, I wouldn’t call it foolish," Dee smiled, " maybe a little reckless though..."

Leslie looked up at his Lieutenant with raised brows, " Dee Laytner calling me reckless? I must really be deep in it."

Dee laughed, " Hey, now I’m not reckless!" his emerald eyes shifted, thinking, " Much."

That statement made the Commander chuckle, " I suppose there are worst crew members out there than you."

" I love the vote of confidence chief," Dee spoke this in a deadpan tone, but knew that Leslie would still understand that he was joking, " Anyway, so how are you going to remedy the fact that you have no proof it was the Senator," Dee raised his hands in an attempt to wave away the word, " I’m sorry, the Captain, that did all of this?"

Leslie shrugged, " I have no idea, but I will follow my instincts. They have never let me down before. Besides that man has his hand and influence in too much of the Federation’s business. I wouldn’t put a deed like this past him."

" Yeah," Dee nodded, " I wouldn’t either."

***

Just as Ryo had hoped the day after blast off he was allowed to leave the Sick Ward and go back to his quarters and just as Dee had stated he was put back on duty, but only on half days. Today was the day that the ‘Glorious’ crew was to pick up their cargo from the Gorren ports so Ryo was on the Bridge speaking with Drake about the Commander’s condition.

" She still hasn’t opened her eyes...the doctors are saying that it is alright though, they don’t expect her to that this soon," Ryo smiled grimly, " They also say that there is no change in her vital signs, but that everything is still stable."

" Well, that is wonderful to hear," Drake was smiling too, a soft smile that showed he truly did care.

" We are coming up on the Docking Stations," Captain Rose’s voice rose above the others, " Ensign Adams, guide her in and set her down safe."

" Yes Sir."

" Sir," Cassidy spoke, " We have an incoming message from the ‘Stetson’."

" Open a channel please."

Commander Reynolds spoke, " We are in range and can see you clearly, however, we will remain in orbit to head off any disturbances before they reach you. I am requesting that this line stay open so I can communicate if need be."

" Granted," Rose sat down in the Captain’s Chair, " Ensign Adams, take us in."

The Gorren nation was small, but extremely wealthy, however, due to there size this planet was shared by two other nations. The Docking Stations were the finest around, the latest model and, of course, the most expensive. J.J. was actually giddy at being able to dock the ship on something so shiny and new. The docking was easy and the Captain along with Ensign Parker left the ship to look over the bill of lading. If everything was in order then the loading crews of Gorren and ‘Glorious’ would work in tandem to get everything aboard and secured on the ship. So far everything was going well.

***

" Commander there is an incoming vessel on our port side," Lieutenant Mactagert was sitting at the Navagations station next to another member of the crew. She was a pilot long before she received this rank so she would occasionally go back to her old post and fly the ship for a while.

" Is it G’nar?" Leslie looked up at the large view screen in front of him, he could see the vessel and it was coming in slow.

" I believe so Sir," Mactagert swivelled in her chair and reaching back pushed the required buttons in the Communications station to open a channel, " They have answered our hail, Sir."

" Wonderful," the Commander stood and adjusting his uniform suit spoke, " Hello, I am Commander Renyolds of the star craft ‘Stetson’. You are in Federation territory, is there something we can help you with?"

Suddenly a face was on screen. That of a G’nar woman, beautiful withravenhair that curled at her shouldersand hazel eyes. She smiled then stated, " If your cargo ship leaves that port, I will destroy it."

" I do not respond to threats," the Commander pushed a button on his chair and the view screen went back to showing the stars and the G’nar war ship and Leslie sounded the alarm, " I want all my gunners in place and really for battle! Captain Rose can you hear me?"

" Yes," the Captain had just returned to the ship and the cargo was being loaded as he spoke, " Is there a problem Commander?"

" There is a G’nar war ship threatening to attack if you leave port. We will hold it off for as long as we can. It is just that ship and ours so I will not be calling for back up."

" Understood," the Captain sat in his chair and raising the alarms spoke to his crew, "After everything has been loaded we will leave this docking station. Ensign Adams and Parker, I want you two to keep this ship on the starboard side of the ‘Stetson’ and to make this departure swift. If you need to use the Level Boosters to get her moving, so be it."

" Yes Sir."

Nowall was quiet, the commanders ofeach ship sitting tense and the only sound to be heard was the running of various instruments on board. Adams and Parker had their hands gripped to their controls and each barely made a sound. Even Bikky, who had crept aboard the Bridge was silent, understanding the intensity of the situation. The Bridge seemed hotter than normal, almost stuffy and when Rose cracked his neck some of the crew gasped while others started a bit. Then finally a voice came over the intercom.

" Everything is secure and the ship is ready for take off."

Captain Rose nodded even though the man in the cargo bay couldn’t see it, " Thank you. Commander Reynolds?"

" Let my crew know ten minutes before you break atmosphere. Gunners on the ready."

" Ensign Adams, Ensign Parker," Captain Rose lifted his glasses further up his nose, "Set a course for the United Earth Federation Headquarters. Guide my ship with care..."

" Yes Sir."

" Proceed."

Slowly Adams opened ‘Glorious’ cleats and she disconnected smoothly from the dock. She rose with caution and turning gracefully began her assent. J.J. licked his lips as she rose higher and higher, aware of his adrenaline heating his blood. All unnecessary power was being diverted to the Level Boosters in case a sudden charge of engine speed would be needed. The assent seemed to take took long and come too fast all at once, then suddenly the tension broke.

" Now Sir!" Ensign Parker reported.

" Commander, we are in orbit in ten!" Captain Rose gripped the arms of his chair.

On the view screen Commander Reynolds watched the G’nar ship, " Shields up! Gunners ready! On my signal."

Finally ‘Glorious’ could be seen rising into the stars and turning so she could shield herself behind the ‘Stetson’s starboard side. The G’nar war vessel wasted no time in firing in the direction of the cargo ship.

" Shields up! Shields up!" Captain Rose gave out orders as his ship was rocked with laser blast, " Steady as she goes! I want to be at ‘Stetson’s starboard ASAP!"

" Fire!" Leslie raised his hand at the intended target, " Lieutenant, guide the ship closer to ‘Glorious’! Meet her half way!"

" Yes Sir!" as Mactagert was beginning tocarry out her ordersa blast impacted powerfully with the ship. The Navagations station sparked and the Lieutenant had to turn her head from the electricity, " Commander, the ship is temporaly stalled!" she was standing now pressing buttons and pulling levers, " I can divert power to the engines, however, it will still be a few minutes until she can move again! Captain, we can not come to you!"

" Understood!" Rose looked around at Navagations, " Adams how long?"

" Five, ten minutes tops Sir!" J.J. swiped sweat from his forehead.

" Captain!" Lars spoke over the noise of flying blast and strikes, " The shields will not last much longer! They will be down in less than three minutes!"

" No, no, no!" J.J. chanted, " Come on girl you can make it!"

Over on the ‘Stetson’ Leslie had stood, " Fire at will! Aim for her engine compartment and shield genera–" a massive blast struck the side of the ship and most of the Bridge crew went tumbling and falling toward the ground.

Mactagert stumbled to her feet first and looking at her monitor yelled, " We have lost all shields!" Commander Reynolds looked over at her then turning back to his gunners ordered, " Gunners Alpha and Beta aim for their engines! Gamma and Sigma, the shield generators! Where’s ‘Glorious’?"

" Sir! Fire on decks 42, 13 and 10," Mactagert was manning the Information and the Navigation stations now, " The fire is spreading!"

Leslie turned and looked Mactagert in the eye. He knew that tone and when evershe used itit spelled trouble, " Sheila what are you saying?"

The Lieutenant looked at her Commander, her emotion clear. " We have to abandon ship."

Leslie cursed then yelled, " Everyone off the Deck and to Holding Area One! Seven to a ship! Laytner and Mactagert board different ships! Captain Rose–"

" I heard you!" Captain Rose’s voice could be heard over the speakers in the ‘Stetson’ "We are at your starboard side, however, we have no shields or weapons!"

" Commander," Laytner spoke up, " I have struck the G’nar’s engines."

" He’s right Sir," Mactagert was looking at the monitor even as she ushered the others off the Bridge, " Their ship is over heating, it’s gonna blow!"

" Dee, out of that chair now!" Leslie grabbed his collar and yanked him from the seat, "Let’s go! Let’s go!"

The crew of the ‘Stetson’ sprinted toward the Holding Area and once inside each member took a seat in a shuttle and when they had seven aboard they launched off the ship. Dee and Mactagert took different shuttles as ordered and Leslie took his own. The shuttles departed from the ‘Stetson’ from her stern so no members of ‘Glorious’ saw them leave. To the members of the cargo ship everyone was still aboard the ‘Stetson’.

" Captain," Lars spoke, " we need to get moving the G’nar ship is over heating, she’s going to–" his words were interrupted by a brilliant white light followed by a violent jarring of the ship.

Adams let out a cry of pain, " The ship’s stabilizers are coming up against interference," he grimaced then cried out once more, " I have to keep her steady manually and, dammit, there’s too much pressure!"

Ryo ran over to where J.J. was standing and gripping the joy stick, his hands on top of J.J.’s, he began to help the younger man steady the ship. J.J. was right, the counter pressure was tremendous and the strength it took to keep the ship upright burned Ryo’s arms and he could feel his stitches tearing. Through his hardened features and pain Ryo still kept his eye on the ‘Stetson’, the debris from the G’nar war ship was striking the Federation vessel making the ship sway and spark with the impact.

" I can feel her," J.J. was whispering and Ryo knew what he meant, the ship was beginning to stabilize, then suddenly there was another flash of light as the ‘Stetson’ erupted into a ball of flame and ripped metal. The shockwave from the explosion sent ripples of pain through the arms of the two men trying to steady ‘Glorious’. They both screamed using the last of their strength to keep the ship stabilized and as J.J. yelled forcing more power into his limbs, Ryo cried out to Dee over and over again. Tears were at the edges of his eyes and his throat was raw, but Ryo screamed for Dee and refused to take his eyes from the view screen.

As the result of the explosion subsided and the ship was finally steady, Ryo sunk to the ground on his hands and knees. He allowed his tears to flow as he struck the floor with his fist and whispered Dee’s name until his voice cracked. J.J. trembling from exhaustion and grief knelt down placing his hands on Ryo’s shoulders and the two men cried together. Rose looked down at the two wide eyed and furious, in utter disbelief that the one Ryo cared for was Dee Laytner.

Rose’s brows furrowed and with a viciousness in his voice never heard before he barked, "This cargo will not get itself to Headquarters. Everyone collect yourself and get this ship moving."

Ryo glared up at the Captain through wet bangs and upon seeing the hatred and anger behind those wire rimmed glasses knew that he had made an enemy for life. Rose snorted then kneeling so he was eye level to Ryo, spoke with disgust through gritted teeth, " He’s dead. Stop sniffling and get over it. We have work to do."

Ryo narrowed his eyes and slowly standing not bothering to wipe away his tears spoke with a calmness and clarity that angered the Captain, " Yes Sir. Whatever you say," Ryo would be damned if he let this man get under his skin. However, before he could take one step he fainted and his limp body was caught by Rose, who finally noticed the puddle of blood on the floor and the crimson stain on the front of Ryo’s uniform from his reopened wound.

***

Ryo sighed, he had just left this bed yet here he was again. He looked over and saw Commander Spacey to his left. He closed his eyes trying to remember how he made it back into the Sick Ward. When the memories resurfaced they rocked Ryo’s body and he turned to his side and allowed the tears to flow. Dee was dead. He, as well as the rest of the ‘Stetson’ crew had given their life to save them. Ryo moaned, the pain in his chest was tremendous. It took Ryo a while, however, to realize it wasn’t from his wound, but from his grief.

***

Meanwhile floating in Gorren airspace was escape shuttles with the Federation insignia painted in black on their sides. The stars could now be seen again after being hidden under the lights of two massive explosions. The crew of the ‘Stetson’ was relieved that no other escape pods other than Federation ones we adrift. None the less, during their quick departure they had flown far away from ‘Glorious’ and therefore knew not of there whereabouts or condition." Holy...oh my God!" Lieutenant Mactagert was holding the back of her head while a member of her crew inspected it. While the crew of he ‘Stetson’ had left their ship in a timely fashion the G’nar ship was still close enough that when it exploded it rocked the escape shuttles. Sheila Mactagert’s whole body was thrown the only thing stopping her momentum was the back of her head slamming into the wall.

" Ensign Powers, open a com link to Command Shuttle One," Mactagert spoke through clenched teeth.

As soon as the link was opened Commander Reynolds voice could be heard, " Lieutenant Mactagert, report."

" Sir," Sheila spoke first being Leslie’s Second in Command, " I have received reports from all shuttles, there are no casualties, however, some ships were struck with debris and have to be repaired. I have instructed those ships to land in the Gorren nation and await further orders."

" Very good, in fact I want all ships to land in the Gorren nation to regroup," Commander Reynolds was already turning his shuttle and steering her toward the planet, " Once we have accounted for all of the crew I will call Headquarters with a report."

***

The room was darkened automatically signaling the end of the day. It was at this time everyone was supposed to be in bed, sleeping or very close to it. Ryo, however, was lying in his bed in the Sick Ward wide awake. He was still trying to wrap his head around what had just happened to him. Ryo sighed, when he had first met Dee Laytner he really wasn’t sure what to make of him. He was forward and brash and at times, he had absolutely no regard to ones personal space. Still, Ryo was fond of him, he was a good man with a kind heart and though his advances were forward and hasty, he couldn’t find a reason not to like him. Ryo wasn’t sure, even now, if what he shared with Dee was an actual relationship, but he knew he was missing it. Even though Dee was light years away on another ship, just the fact that he was waiting to return to Ryo made the blond’s heart sing. Now, however, now he wouldn’t be able to further pursue this odd, fascinating relationship with Dee. Ryo blinked as a tear rolled down his cheek. He thought he was all cried out.

" Why are you crying?" a voice called out to him in the darkness. Ryo sat up like a bolt of lightening had struck him, the voice may have been small and weak, but it was as though the words were screamed right into his ears.

" Commander!" Ryo didn’t try to hide his happiness and smiling looked at Diana in the dim light, " Do you need anything? The doctor, some water...?"

" Water, please Ensign," Diana was looking back at her crew mate, " Now what is wrong?"

Ryo had stood, ignoring the stretching of his stitches and made his way over to the Commander’s bedside table. He poured a glass of cool water, then dropping a straw into the liquid, held it to her lips, " Please, Commander, you just awoke. Let’s not talk about this now..."

Diana took a slow sip wincing a bit as she swallowed. It was so parched that it seemed as though the water was ripping through her throat, fighting to push back and soothe the swollen glands.

She looked up at Ryo gratefully then her expression changed to one of concern, " Are you crying for Laytner? Is he hurt?"

Ryo was visibly shaken by those words and with his shoulders hunched he whispered, " I am going to get you a doctor..." and before she could say he left to find the attending doctor.

***

Since he was already out of bed and he knew he wouldn’t be going to sleep anytime soon he decided to go to his room and get a book to read. After assuring the nurses on duty that he was going to return, he left with a smile and made toward his room.

Most of the crew was awake, tired from their bout with the G’nar and grateful for the time to rest. Only a few where still awake and those were the ones waving at Ryo as he walked or stopping him to ask how he was doing. As Ryo spoke with Drake, he was unaware that Captain Rose was only a few feet away, watching him.

" Man, Ryo are you sure you should be up walking around?" Drake was sipping on a juice box.

" I am going back, just have to get a book," Ryo smiled even though his wound was throbbing, " Where are you headed to?"

" Jemmy’s room, we play poker together sometimes," Drake let out a laugh, " Neither one of us is really good at it though! We just like being together, I guess."

Ryo nodded, " At least you have a friend on the ship."

Drake blanched, " Oh, damn...I am so sorry. I really didn’t mean, I mean...how are you holding up?"

Ryo chuckled softly, " It’s okay, I have been through loss before," he looked down suddenly saddened, " I can get through this..."

" Well, if you need anything," Drake started walking again sipping on his juice. Then raising the box andnodding his head, turned his back to Ryo and made his way to J.J.’s room.

Captain Rose from his place a few feet away, sighed. When he had first laid eyes on Randy Maclean he had found his beauty captivating and when the opportunity arose for him to join the ‘Glorious’ crew, he was thrilled that he would be able to work along side the man. Rose admitted that he was forward with his affections, but the way Randy was playing hard to get made the man want the younger blond even more. It never crossed his mind that he was already in a relationship and that was why he pushed him away so vehmently. It also never occurred to Rose just how deeply he had fallen for Maclean until he saw the man doubled over in his grief at losing Laytner. It had torn his heart apart to see him so much pain and jealously, an emotion that he had never experienced before, washed over him in a mind numbing wave. It was this emotion that lead to the awful thing he spoke to the crying man. Rose sighed again, he needed to apologize.

Rose waited until Ryo was in his room and the door was shut before pressing the bell. When Ryo opened the door the change in his eyes from curiosity to anger was very noticeable.

" May I come in Ensign?" the question was asked with a small smile.

Ryo sighed loudly, " Yes, Sir," he stepped aside, " however, I am due back to the Sick Ward shortly."

Rose nodded then walking into the room pointed to the gray chair and a half asking silently if he could sit. Ryo whispered yes while standing in front of his library. He had already read all of these books, some more than once, and though he really didn’t want to reread another one he didn’t have much of a choice. He would have to go shopping for more on the next shore leave, he should be in better shape by then. Grabbing the book he wanted he turned to look at his Captain.

Rose was sitting in the chair with his legs crossed elegantly looking a Ryo with a smirk on his face, " Are you sure you want to read that considering the circumstances?"

Ryo looked down at his copy of the complete works of Edgar Allen Poe, " Yeah, this will do just fine," then he looked at his commander through his bangs, eyes narrowed, "considering the circumstances."

The Captain frowned, " I owe you an apology. I should have never said the things to you I did...please forgive me."

Ryo’s eyes went wide and he paused his response, looking for signs of sarcasm or falsehood. He searched and searched, but only saw kindness. Ryo smiled shyly then nodded and Berkely smiled back in gratitude.

" I saw you speaking with Ensign Parker," Rose adjusted his spectacles, " that is how I knew you would be in here. Never the less, he called you by another name...is Randy not your true name?"

Ryo sat on his bed, shoulders slummed, he was suddenly sleepy, " I have two names. Randy and Ryo. I answer to both."

Rose didn’t question why the blond would have two names, he really didn’t care, "Hmmm, so would it be alright, when we are alone, if I call you Ry–"

" No," Ryo interrupted beforeRose could finish his sentence. He was aware that he was glaring and that the word was spoken with a distinct gruffness. No one had ever called him Ryo until he met Dee. It was bad enough that the man before him had stolen kisses, he wasn’t about to steal the name that Dee had adopted.

Rose looked somewhat shocked at Ryo’s reaction and he had to calm his features before he could talk with Ryo again, " Alright, then I shall stick with Randy..." his voice dropped to a whisper, " Listen, I do feel sorry about what happened. All these horrible things keep happening to you..." suddenly his voice was a whisper, " I hate it."

Ryo stood and walking over to the Captain knelt by his feet. He spoke is voice soft, " It’s okay I have athick skin. This," he pointed to his chest, " is a minor setback. My grief...my grief will subside."

Rose smiled sweetly down at Ryo and reaching forward he ran his fingers through the dusty blond bangs, stopping to rest his palm on his cheek, " You are remarkable...I suppose I have been unfair to you..."

" How so?" Ryo ignore the hand on his face for now.

" I have been much to..." Rose looked off in thought, " aggressive. I apologize for that as well," Rose wasn’t stupid, the apology was fake, he just wanted to get on Ryo’s good side. He had to woo Ryo slowly and with care now that Dee was gone. Withno obstacles in his way he could win over Ryo slowly now. The fact that Ryo was allowing him to touch him was already a good sign.

Ryo reached up and batted Rose’s hand away, " I accept your apology, however," Ryo stood towering over his Captain, " I still don’t want you to touch me."

The muscles in Rose’s jaw contracted, maybe winning Ryo over would take longer than he thought.

***

Drake let out a loud yawn and leaning back on his palms smiled at J.J., " I think I am done, dude, I am too tired to play another hand."

" Yeah, I guess you are right," J.J. scooped the cards up from the floor and returning them to the pack he scooted over to sit next to Drake. He yawned himself then laid his head on his friend’s shoulder and closed his eyes, " Umm, Drake, what did you do to piss off Rose?"

Drake leaned his head back on J.J.’s wing back, " Well, many years ago I worked at Headquarters. It was around the same time the Senator was sticking his nose into Federation business. Well, every time someone got orders to move to a new ship or be reprimanded or whatever, the papers came from HQ. Thing was, we weren’t sending out papers like that," Drake paused as J.J. shifted, trying to get comfortable, " so I started to do some digging on my own. I used my computer savvy to find out that all the papers were coming from the desk of Berkely Rose. To make a long story short, he must of had security on his end ‘cause he found out. Next thing I knew I had orders to here."

" So basically, you’re a hacker?" J.J. asked sleepily.

" Yeah, one of my many talents," Parker’s voice was sarcastic.

J.J. lifted his head and looking at his friend whispered, " I am sure you have many fun talents," his tired state made his voice slightly husky and Drake looked away, afraid his friend would see the blush on his cheeks.

" Soooo," J.J. held out the word as his head plopped back down on top of Drake’s shoulder, " can you still do that?"

" Yeah, once you learn it you never really forget it you know."

J.J.’s eyes opened, but he wasn’t looking at anything, he was to busy hatching a plan, "We are going to be back at Headquarters in a few days. You still have friends there?"

" Yep, why?"

J.J. sat up completely then and looked at Drake sternly, " You think you could track who sent out our ship blueprints and schedule?"

" Yeah, but it would be pointless. I am sure someone else has already done it. Just as before, I am sure everyone knew the Senator was sending out those papers, but no one wants to go up against him. Not even the Federation," Drake ran his fingers through his hair when he noticed J.J. wasn’t changing his mind, " It’s a good idea, really, I just don’t think anyone would listen to us even if we had hard evidence. Besides we are not really sure it is Rose, we are accusing him with no proof."

J.J. looked at Drake with that you-don't-even-believe-what-you're-saying look, " You were trying all those years ago, you thought you could do something then! Why not now?" J.J. wasn’t yelling, but he might as well have been with the force of his words.

Drake sighed, " Years ago Rose didn’t have the power he does now. Years ago it might of made a difference. Now though..." his voice trailed off.

" So you are just going to give up?" J.J. pouted, " I never imagined you would let another man get the best of you. I thought you were stronger than that..."

" Jemmy," his name came out breathy with disbelief. Drake wasn’t stupid, he knew J.J. was betting on his pride to work against him. Hoping Drake would do this despite the fact that they would probably fail miserably. Drake pursed his lips at his friend, then, " Fine, if I can get to a computer long enough then I will do it. I’m not doing it alone though, if I find something you gotta promise to have my back."

J.J. smiled smoothly then and he leaned in whispering into Drake’s ear, " I will follow you anywhere," J.J. was aware that the sharp breath Drake took was in reaction to his soft words, however, he was confused as to why it thrilled him. He sighed against his friend’s cheek then laid his head back on the strong shoulder. Suddenly the three day trip back to Headquarters seemed too long.

***

Dee was frowning sitting on the examining table in the Gorren hospital. His left elbow was on his knee and his chin was resting in the palm. He sighed, he was still in pain, true it had subsided to a dull throbbing pain, but it was still pain none the less.

Finally the door was thrown open and the physician walked in. He was tall and some what geeky looking wearing a yellow t-shirt and dark blue jeans. Dee still thought it was funny when a Gorren wore clothing mostly associated with Humans. The aqua colored lizard-like Gorrens just looked odd, like a cartoon for toddlers in people clothes.

The doctor spoke, his English was thick with his alien accent, but still understandable, "Let us see, Lieutenant Laytner, looks like your right arm is broken."

" No shit Sherlock," Dee scowled and the Gorren raised the flesh above his left eye, "With all the technology you guys have, you can wave something over it and fix it right?"

The doctor chuckled, " This is not some movie this is real life. What, you think you are on Star Trek or something?"

Dee laughed at that, " You get that show all the way out here!"

" Amazing isn’t it?" then the doctor smiled which looks a bit scary with all the sharp teeth Gorren’s have, " More amazing though is that they still show reruns of it!"

The two men shared a laugh and Dee didn’t mind so much at having to wait so long anymore. The doctor directed him to his next destination and assured him that his cast and sling would be given to him that day.

" You can even pick the color you want!" The doctor smiled with a wave and Dee gave him an odd look before stepping through the door.

Commander Reynolds was in the hall and he took a place beside Dee to walk with him. He waited awhile just walking in companionable silence before finally speaking, " I may not have any casualties, but I have so many injured I am not sure we will be able to make it back to Headquarters before ‘Glorious’."

Dee stopped and looking at his Commander with wide eyes whispered, " So they are okay? Are you sure?"

Leslie smiled, " Yes, I am sure. They are all safe and secure and on their way to Earth, back to HQ."

Dee sighed then smiling realized that the pain in his arm was overshadowed by his happiness.

***

Diana was awake watching Ryo as he ate his lunch. She was happy that she wasn’t all alone in the Sick Ward, it made her remember worst times in her life. Ryo looked over at her then and his eyes widened slightly, he thought she was still sleeping.

" Do you wish for me to call you up some lunch too Commander?" Ryo asked politely as he placed his fork next to the mashed potatoes. If you could really call them that. They were closer to potato soup. The grilled chicken, on the other hand, was delicious.

Diana made a face then sighed, " Sure, I suppose I should put something in my system other than I.V. fluid."

" Do you need help sitting up?" Ryo made a move to go to Diana, but she waved her hand.

" Obviously you were awake when they talked with me yesterday," Diana was referring to the time the doctors spent speaking to her about the possibility that she may be paralyzed, " I am sore, but I can still move my legs and wiggle my toes."

Ryo gave her a wide smile, " That is wonderful Commander!"

Diana grunted her way to a seated position, then looking over at Ryo added, " They still want to run test, make sure everything is working perfectly, but I think I will be fine..." she smiled a beautiful smile of pure joy that quickly dropped once the Captain walked in.

" Good afternoon you two," Rose held a pleasant smile, " Commander I will retrieve your lunch," he turned to leave then stopping at the door looked back, " By the way your things are still in the office. Given your condition I didn’t throw them away. However, in our haste to leave the Gorren nation, that sculpture of the demon woman with the baby fell and shattered," he opened the door and left the room.

Diana cursed, " My Oc’tull...I needed that..."

Ryo looked over confused, " The Goddess of Death!"

" Yes," Diana smiled gently, " so you know of her?"

Ryo nodded with a questioning look on his face, then Diana sighed, " Yeah, so I didn’t used to be this strong of a women. After the whole debacle with Rose my thoughts went to dark places...Obviously, I’m okay now, but not before a trip to the hospital and some long talks with doctors," Diana ran her hand through her hair, " Oc’tull reminds be of were I’ve been and were I never want to go again. It also reminds me of just how awful that man Rose can be..." she looked down in an almost defeated fashion.

Ryo nodded his understanding, " Think of her breaking this way; you are now completely passed that stage in your life and you know without a shadow of a doubt that you will never try things again with the Captain or anyone else who would treat you less than perfect. Her destruction is in a sense wiping the slate clean," he smiled at her in support.

Diana laughed, " Yeah, that sounds great. I like the way you think Maclean!"

Just then Rose came back through the doors with a tray and moving the side table so it was across Diana’s lap he sat the tray on it.

Diana looked down at it and scowled, " You spit in it?"

Rose looked at Diana slightly surprised, " No!" then tilting his head back he looked down his nose at her, " I don’t hate you Diana, I just don’t love you."

The words would have normally stung Spacey to the core, but they rolled off her back without hesitation. Maybe Maclean was right about the whole starting over thing. Diana looked over at Ryo and smiled genuinely, her bright eyes crinkling at the corners and her lips pulled up high with her internal joy. She couldn’t remember feeling so alive!

***

The day ‘Glorious’ landed on the United Earth Federation Headquarters’ inclosed docks, the crew was granted shore leave by the same Admiral that had assigned Rose to the ship. Everyone took their break gratefully and while everyone else was making plans to meet with family and friends, Drake and J.J. were putting their plan into action.

" Where are we going?" J.J. walked alongside his friend.

" To Communications. I have a friend their that can help me," Drake bit his bottom lip, "I think..."

Once at Communications door, Drake knocked waiting for an answer. A thick Australian accent called out telling them they could enter. Once the two were inside J.J. took a look around the room. This room was in the oldest section of the Headquarters building, so it still had manual windows and doors. It held two large oak desk facing each other, although there was only one person in the room. The space was clean, save the second desk which held stacks of books and paper work that still needed to be gone through. The man at the desk turned and crossing his legs looked up at the two smiling. The man was muscular and of African descent, his dark chocolate skin was evidence of that. His curly raven hair was cut low, but he still left enough length at the top to tip them with a vibrate red. His blue eyes seemed to be focused on J.J.

" Sup Darius!" Drake smiled as he spoke.

" Hell no!" the man stood, " Drake Parker! I thought I would never see you again!"

" I told you when I left it wasn’t goodbye man!"

The two laughed before Drake went over and hugged the man. Darius picked Drake up off the ground and J.J. felt jealously rise swiftly within him before he pushed it away. J.J. was frowning slightly, confused that he would feel an emotion like that. He stood there, hands clasped behind his back, feeling like the fifth wheel.

Wanting to say something, but not sure what, J.J. fumbled for words in his mind and blurted out the first thing to surface, " You have nice eyes," J.J. shook his head and mentally kicked himself.

Darius dropped Drake then leaning over his computer logged off, " Well, thank you!" he moved some papers over to the next desk, placing his hand on one stack then the other, before finally dropping the papers onto the third pile, " You guys wanna go to the Cafeteria for lunch?"

" Sure that sounds great!" Drake walked over to stand next to J.J.

" Great!" Darius turned toward the door, " Chance!"

From a place under the second desk a black German Shepard ran out trotting up to his "Daddy" unaffected by the seeing eye bar across his back. Darius petted the dog and gripping the bar walked toward the door.

J.J.'s embarrassment rose, the statement about the man’s eyes seemed even more out of place now and just down right wrong. He felt as if he should say something, " I am so sorry...I mean...about what I said earlier..." he sighed loudly, defeated.

Darius chuckled while opening the door, " No sweat mate! You didn’t know!"

The three men walked toward the Cafeteria, J.J. introducing himself properly to Darius as they went. The three men talked and soon J.J. didn’t feel like a tag along anymore. Once in the Cafeteria the three ordered lunch and sitting at a booth far from the others. They talked a bit longer, Drake catching up with Darius and Darius getting to know a little more about J.J. Each man was halfway through their respective meals when Drake finally spoke about the plan.

Darius sighed, " Wow...you still going after that man, huh?" he bit into his pear, " And here I thought you came all this way to see me..."

Drake chuckled, " Well, I will admit seeing you was a plus!" his smile dropped, " Look, I know how much pull Rose has. I’m not dumb. So if you don’t want to help then...I get it."

Darius shook his head and wiping his mouth with his napkin spoke, " What do you need me to do?"

Drake smiled.

***

Ryo wasn’t supposed to be up and about, but he was bored and since Diana was taking a nap he decided to leave the Sick Ward. He was on the Bridge speaking with Cassidy when the Captain stepped on board.

" Ensign Maclean, what are you doing out of the Sick Ward?" the man adjusted his glasses while looking down at Ryo who was seated at the Navagations helm.

Ryo made a move to stand, but the Captain shook his head letting him know it was alright to stay seated, " I was getting bored down there, Sir. The doctors said it would be alright, however, I will return if you would like."

" No, no," Rose sighed, " If you tear your stitches again that is your problem," then he smiled to let him know that he was mearly teasing. Ryo returned the smile.

Suddenly Bikky was running onto the Bridge. Rose made a motion for him, but Bikky made an agitated face and waving his hands frantically looked as though he needed to say something important, " Ryo! Oh my God, you’re not going to believe this!"

Before the teen could finish Dee Laytner sidestepped him and crossing the Deck in long strides stopped just inches in front of Rose. With narrowed eyes he radiated a fury that far surpassed any that anyone had seen before.

Though his voice was level and calm the challenge and hate could be heard within his words, " If you laid one finger on Ryo," his emerald eyes had darkened in his anger, " I will kill you," then a smirk, " Berkley."

Rose’s eyes were wide and his body was shaking in response to Dee’s words. He knew what Dee was implying by calling him by his true name as apposed to his rank. Dee wanted to make sure that no matter if Berkley tried to pull rank that it didn’t matter. This was personal.

Ryo, meanwhile, was sitting with his lips parted and eyes wide, he felt lightheaded and a little nauseous. Swaying a bit in his disbelief he whispered, " I thought you were dead..."

Dee turned his head then his anger instantly gone. The twinkle was back in his eyes and he smiled sweetly at Ryo, " Sorry to disappoint."

" No...no..." Ryo was shaking his head dumbly, " I just can’t believe..."

" Really?" Dee placed his good hand on his hips and chuckled softly, ignoring everyone else in the room, " You need proof? Do I need to pinch you?"

Ryo stood slowly still in shock, " No...I just..."

" Ah," Dee smiled mischievously, " I know what you need."

Slowly Dee walked over to Ryo and sliding his arm around Ryo’s waist pulled him gently against himself, catching and holding Ryo’s gaze. Soon warm lips touched one another and though Ryo was blushing in embarrassment he couldn’t pull away. Hewouldn’t pull away. He had missed Dee, had grieved for him and thoughts of never being able to feel this again had surfaced to him many a time. Ryo wasn’t about to end this moment, he would hold him until it was over. He would hold on until the end of time. Ryo opened his eyes slightly not too surprised when he saw Dee’s brilliant verdant staring back at him. Dee broke the kiss then, leaning back to view Ryo’s face, panting slightly.

Ryo smiled then leaning forward touched his lips to Dee’s then whispered gently, "I love you."

Dee sighed against Ryo’s lips his heart tightening in response to Ryo's confession and before kissing the warm mouth again said, " I love you too."