Starbuck stepped into his quarters and locked the door. The patrol had been longer than he'd expected, and he had less time than he'd thought he would to get ready. Quickly stripping off his uniform, the warrior headed to the bathroom and walked into the turbowash. As the droplets of warm water began to hit him, Starbuck turned the water up to full power and closed his eyes. The droplets became a torrent, as they washed away the sweat of the patrol he'd just returned from. Reaching for the controls, Starbuck increased the heat of the water. Stepping back into the full force of the turbowash, the Lieutenant felt the water envelop him in a single, drenching flood. He stood there for long microns, before, finally, he turned off the water and stepped out.
Quickly drying himself, Starbuck headed back into the main area of his quarters. On the bed were a simple pair of black trousers and a black shirt. He never wore his uniform for this, that was one of the first rules they'd established. Getting dressed, he ran his fingers through his hair, and checked his appearance in the mirror. Nodding to himself, he walked out of his quarters and down the corridor.
Within only a few microns he had reached his destination. Reaching out, he paused as he heard voices coming around the corner. Pulling his hand back, he started to walk further down the corridor, stopping when he saw Sheba and Bojay turn the corner. The two warriors stopped and smiled at him.
"Looking good, Starbuck," grinned Sheba. "Big date tonight?"
Starbuck flashed a grin. "Well now, that would be telling, wouldn't it."
Sheba laughed. "Well, whatever it is you're doing, think of us, out in our vipers, on patrol, while you're cuddling up to, who is it you said you were meeting?"
"Nice try, Sheba," said Starbuck with amusement.
The female warrior shrugged. "Oh well, it was worth a shot."
"Come on, Sheba," Bojay said, briefly laying his hand on her arm. "We need to get down to the launch bays."
Sheba nodded at the young warrior, before turning back to Starbuck. "Have a nice time tonight."
"I plan to," Starbuck replied, as he watched them walk down the corridor. The warrior waited until they were out of sight before doubling back to the door he had been standing at. While the corridor was deserted, Starbuck quickly knocked on the door. The door slid open to reveal a dimly lit room. Starbuck walked inside, ignoring the door as it closed behind him.
Starbuck's eyes dropped to the floor as a figure stepped out of the darkness. "Hello, Starbuck." The masculine voice washed over him. "I've been expecting you."
PART 2 - Rita G Mac Auslan
"Sir, I'm sorry I'm late. The patrol - "
Gentle laughter interrupted him. "Starbuck, I AM privy to that information." Stepping closer, he saw Starbuck's worried face. "It's all right." As so often before, the older man frowned at the fear evident whenever anything unforeseen occurred. He had not yet succeeded in wiping away bad memories from Starbuck's past. Gently he caressed the beautiful face until the worry lines and tension disappeared.
Starbuck sighed. How could he ever deserve this compassionate man? The others he had served and serviced, well, they were less understanding. Some of them MUCH less understanding. Now it was different. He gladly gave himself to those he serviced now. They rarely hurt him, never on purpose, never humiliated him. They supported him publicly and privately. All he COULD give was himself. Servicing others was his lot, it was all he knew. Colonies or no, destruction or no, some things didn't change. He might be the best viper pilot in the fleet. He might be known as quite the ladies' man. But in the private hours, he remained what he had been since the forests of Umber - a commodity. No one actually knew, but somehow, those who wanted such discreet services found him. And each, even these he owed so much to, took a piece of him away.
His eyes still cast downward, Starbuck noticed that his partner's robe was beginning to pull apart below the waist. Tentatively, he knelt and parted the robe to reveal the erect organ beneath it. He looked up for confirmation that this was what was wanted.
The aroused man smiled down at the golden head and nodded, his silver mane catching the dim light. Starbuck knelt to his task, stroking, and kneading, finally taking the long, thick staff into his mouth. The commander grasped Starbuck's hair, guiding him deeper until his whole penis was in the young man's mouth, being laved by tongue and scraped by teeth. He thrust rhythmically into Starbuck's mouth, pounding his flat belly against the beautiful face, until finally, he released in long spurts down the waiting throat.
Starbuck licked Adama clean, while the older man supported himself by leaning on Starbuck's shoulders. Adama pulled his robe around him again and sat heavily in the nearby padded chair, satiated. Starbuck remained on his knees, waiting.
After a few moments of heavy breathing, Adama looked at Starbuck, kneeling submissively, head down. "Come," he said, beckoning. Starbuck crawled over, curling himself at Adama's feet, his head on the older man's knee. Adama stroked his hair. "I shouldn't be so demanding," Adama apologized. "But I've had a rough day - although what day isn't rough now? What I could really use is a massage. Are you up to that?"
Starbuck nodded and rose. As if he would refuse anything his commander asked! Still, it was almost unique that he did ask. He was silent; after the first greeting, if there was any, he was always silent - usually it pleased those he served. He turned on soft music, found the aromatic oils and warmed them. Then he approached the commander again, knelt in front of him, and offered him his hands.
Adama rose, bringing Starbuck to his feet. Holding him at arms' length, he inspected the younger man with eyes and hands, stroking his attire approvingly, lingering on his buttocks, noting the slight bulge at his crotch and encouraging it to grow. "Beautiful," Adama murmured. "Will you strip for me?"
A simple request, but one Starbuck appreciated. So many had not even ordered, merely tearing clothes off at will. Starbuck swayed in time to the music as he unbuttoned and unzipped, eyes closed. It was too much for him to watch the other's eyes as they judged his body - too much of a reminder that, even to Adama, his physical beauty and his skill at pleasuring others was his whole worth.
Adama stepped close and moved his hands up and down the silky smooth skin of arms and back. He traced the firm jawline, then leaned in for a kiss, pulling Starbuck to him. Starbuck opened his mouth to the searching tongue and allowed himself to enjoy the sensations, his erection growing. Adama felt it through his robe and his own organ stirred in response. "Not yet," he whispered into Starbuck's mouth. He stepped back again and turned his back, untying the robe and allowing Starbuck to remove it.
PART 3 - Wayne Killion
Adama laid himself on the bed and motioned for Starbuck to come over. Starbuck gently began to massage Adama' back. "Commander, you are so tense, you muscles are all in knots." Adama told him once again that he had been through a very rough day.
"Why don't you tell me about your day" Starbuck replied. Adama frowned and said, "Its that damn council of fools, they are continuously trying to undermine my authority. It is hard enough to deal with on the civilian level but today they tried to order me to open the Galactica up to tours."
"You have got to be kidding" Starbuck said looking shocked.
Adama replied, " Do not fret yourself over it Starbuck, I shot that idea down faster than Sire Goeller could get it out."
Starbuck continued to knead at the knots in the Commanders muscles.
Adama whispered "That feels so wonderful Starbuck, I do not know what I would do without you".
It's my pleasure Commander", Starbuck replied.
"Starbuck, when we are alone in my quarters let's not stand on formalities so much please, call me Adama".
"Whatever you wish, Adama," Starbuck said boyishly.
"Starbuck," Adama said, "I always knew that you were a very special person. When I first saw you I knew you had the potential to become a great warrior. Now through the yahrens I have watched you become a legend in the squadrons. Everything that you have set your mind to do you have excelled at. I am proud of you, don't ever forget that."
"Thank you Comman...uh... Adama," replied Starbuck.
Adama answered, "No, thank you. Thank you for making a tired man feel like there are things in life that are still worth fighting for. Thank you for being there when I needed you. Thank you for your discretion."
"The pleasure is mine," Starbuck said softly.
Adama softly spoke, "You know the colonies have always accepted male to male or female to female relationships, but they have never learned to accept relationships with a big age difference. The people in this fleet would be quick to label me a dirty old man. I am so glad that you do not think of me that way Starbuck."
Starbuck smiled and said, "The people just don't know you as well as I do. You are one of the kindest and gentlest of men I have ever met. Your always willing to do for your warriors."
Adama looked at Starbuck and said, "Don't even think about it Starbuck, you still have to go on long range patrol tomorrow."
"Frak, Starbuck replied, "You can't blame a guy for trying." Adama laughed and replied, "You would not be the Starbuck I have come to admire if you didn't. Now stop massaging my back and come up here and lie down next to me." Starbuck climbed over Adama and laid his head down in the crook of Adama's arm.
Adama quietly spoke into Starbucks ear, "It is so nice to have somebody just to hold onto once in a while.
Starbuck replied, "Its nice to be held once in a while." Adama's eyes began to droop with the oncoming of sleep.
"Starbuck" Adama whispered.
"Yes Adama", Starbuck replied.
"You are welcome to stay here tonight," Adama said.
"Thank you", replied Starbuck.
Starbuck knew that the Commander was willing to take a great risk of him being seen leaving in the morning. He cared too much for the Commander to hurt his career in any way. He stayed until the Commander was fast asleep then got up and dressed quietly. Starbuck reached over and covered the Commander up gently brushing his hair with his fingertips. Starbuck whispered softly, "You're my hero". Then he turned and quietly left the Commanders quarters. Adama's eyes opened as Starbuck walked out the door. Adama, too low to be heard said, "I love you Starbuck."
Starbuck shot down the corridor like a laser. He knew he was late for an appointment and there was going to be hell to pay if he wasn't there soon.
PART 4 - Calcasieu
He went back to his room and ruthlessly scrubbed his hair and body. It wouldn't do to arrive smelling of fresh sex. He redressed again in black and grabbed the jump bag he had prepared for the encounter. He walked confidently to the designated place at least on the outside he was confident. He was quaking on the inside. He had only attended this person once before when he finally ran out of ways to weasel out of the situation. It was one of the more difficult encounters he had had.
He quickly made his way to the designated part of the battle star. It was isolated from the rest and they were ensured of privacy. He opened the door of the cubicle and stopped in midstride. Before, it had been a ordinary small room. Now, it had been draped in faux-silk to resemble an opulent tent. It seemed totally out of character to be standing in the middle of a room with blue silk on the walls and large pillows in primary colors. It looked like a picture he had seen once of a pleasure den.
The door swished open behind him and Starbuck froze, not sure of his part in this play. A person entered and the door shut and was locked. Hands grasped him by the waist before Starbuck could turn around. They ran up to his shoulders and then in front of him to gently tie a soft black silk scarf over his eyes. Starbuck resented and appreciated the blindfold. It made him feel even more helpless but it also allowed him to have the excuse of not looking the person in the face.
He could pretend that it was some other person and not have to live with the feelings that serving this person generated. He couldn't use his charm and words to keep people at a distance when he served them. He hadn't been able to face him since that last encounter. It would have continued except as usual he took charge.
Apollo had pulled Starbuck into a closet and pinned him against the wall. A strong hand grasped Starbuck's jaw and forced him to make eye contact. Starbuck looked into Apollo's dark eyes for the space of several very long heartbeats and then closed his cerulean eyes. "This can't continue" the familiar voice growled in his ear. "Same place; same time and we will get a few things settled" came the authoritative voice. He sounded surprisingly similar to his father all of the sudden. Starbuck nodded knowing that there was no other choice.
A hand covered his eyes and then a warm mouth teased and then invaded his own. The kiss dismissed time and worries leaving only pleasure. Starbuck pressed his palms flat against the wall to prevent himself from clutching at Apollo. Apollo had accepted the few times that Starbuck had given in to his need for comfort. Apollo had accepted it in Starbuck; Starbuck couldn't accept it in himself. The kiss had ended and Starbuck had stayed where he was long enough to get his façade back into place. He had slipped it on the same as Apollo had slipped the silk over his eyes.
Hands began unfastening Starbuck's shirt as a hot mouth ravished his neck and ears. Starbuck couldn't help the quiver as nerves he didn't know existed flared to life. The shirt was unfastened and hands stroked his chest. Starbuck could feel Apollo's erection pressing against him. Apollo continued to stroke Starbuck's chest until he could feel the quivers. Starbuck felt the hands travel up and remove the shirt. A hot mouth tasted his bared shoulders and neck. Teeth raked across the venerable nape of Starbuck's neck and then lightly fastened on the tender skin.
It was more primitive than Starbuck had expected of the controlled, civilized Apollo. The hand that slid down and cupped him wasn't totally gentle either. Apollo undulated against him with a soft low growl. Starbuck could feel himself began to swell. His pants were unfastened and lowered. Starbuck staggered when Apollo forgot about the boots and tried to urge him toward the bed of pillows. Apollo picked him up displaying more strength than his lean frame would suggest.
Starbuck was stripped of his boots and pants with quick efficient movements. Apollo pressed him down and then began to explore with hands and mouth. Starbuck felt that there wasn't an inch of his skin that Apollo hadn't touched and tasted by the time that Apollo leaned back. Hands indicated that he should turn over onto his back. Apollo knelt between his spread and raised thighs and began to prepare Starbuck's body for his claiming.
A tiny part of Starbuck's mind wondered where Apollo had perfected his skills and how had the straight-laced Commander's son ever become such an accomplished lover. Skilled fingers drove the thought from Starbuck's mind as they seemed to find all the right spots to coax pleasure from his body.
By the time that Apollo entered him, Starbuck was writhing in arousal. Starbuck tried all the techniques that he had learned to prompt Apollo to increase the pace. Apollo didn't cooperate and continued the long slow torment until Starbuck whimpered. It was the first sound he had made. Starbuck bit his lip to prevent any more sounds. Apollo increased the pace slightly and changed position to kiss Starbuck.
Almost inaudible moans were caught in Apollo's mouth as he pleasured Starbuck. With a gasp, Starbuck humiliated himself by cummin' between them. He was supposed to serve. Where was his worth now. He felt Apollo began to thrust deeper and then fill him as he came. Apollo lay limp on Starbuck's body panting from the intensity. Gradually, Apollo recovered and urged Starbuck to his feet. Starbuck was led to a turbowash hidden by the silk.
Apollo cleaned him slowly, taking the time to insure that Starbuck hadn't been hurt by his loss of control. Starbuck felt the silk removed from his eyes and again his face was captured by Apollo's hands. Dark, smoky eyes studied him and then the familiar face came closer. Starbuck closed his eyes and felt Apollo's mouth capture his. "Don't ever doubt how much you mean to me" Apollo's voice was softly commanding. Starbuck nodded.
Starbuck dressed and prepared to leave. Apollo reclined against the pillows and watched with hooded eyes. "Starbuck" he said softly. Starbuck met his eyes. "You can pretend; but never in here" Apollo commanded. There were so many truths in that one statement. Starbuck nodded and then left.
Apollo's very gentleness and loving touch was almost harder to bear than some of the abuses that had been heaped on him. There was no hope for them to go on other than they had: the straight-laced Captain and his charming rogue of a friend. Starbuck was involved in his thoughts and didn't pay attention. He rounded a corner and found himself face to face with the one person he most didn't want to meet.
PART 5 - Claire
"Starbuck?"
Starbuck felt the blood drain from his face. "Commander, I..."
"I thought you would be in your quarters," Adama said.
"I couldn't sleep," the warrior lied.
Adama just kept the disappointment from showing on his face. He had come to know Starbuck too well over the years to miss the fact that the younger man was lying. And he didn't need a daggit's sense of smell to recognise the scent of sex that was clinging to Starbuck. "Very well, just make sure you're well rested for the patrol tomorrow."
"Yes sir."
Adama watched as Starbuck all but fled down the corridor. Sighing, the Commander rubbed a hand over his eyes. Starbuck had already been gone when he had woken, and, unable to get back to sleep, he had decided to go for a brief walk to try and clear his thoughts. When Adama had first started this arrangement with Starbuck, he had never expected to fall in love with the Lieutenant. He had thought that his liaisons with Starbuck would offer him a release from the stress of leading the Fleet. The friend Apollo had brought home from the Academy one holiday had grown into a vibrant and fun-loving young man. Adama had never expected to find an almost overwhelming *need* in Starbuck. The pilot kept it hidden, but every so often, Adama would glimpse the want in Starbuck's soul - a hunger that threatened to consume him. Instead of being put off, the Commander found himself drawn by the vulnerability Starbuck so desperately tried to hide. And, somewhere, affection had turned to love.
"By the Lords of Kobol," Adama whispered to himself, suddenly feeling very old and tired. "He's young enough to be my son." Adama hoped he would have the strength to break it off with Starbuck, knowing in his heart that he would never be able to.
PART 6 - Rita G Mac Auslan
This was not to be Starbuck's night. Rounding a corner, he ran headlong into Athena. She grabbed his shoulders to hold him upright and laughed at his startled look. Then, holding him at arms' length, she took a better look at him: tousled hair, rumpled clothes, flushed skin, hot enough to feel through the soft shirt. She sniffed, then grinned. "And who have you been with, Lieutenant?" she asked teasingly.
Before Starbuck could conjure up an answer, Apollo stepped from the shadows. "That would be me," he answered his sister, placing his hands proprietarily on Starbuck's shoulders.
Athena's mind whirled. Dealing with another woman was one thing, and dueling with Cass over Starbuck was actually fun in a way. But a man! And her brother at that. Before her brain was in gear, Athena's body told her what *it* thought. She rubbed herself against Starbuck as Apollo held him. "Share?" she asked her brother coyly.
Apollo, fully under control, gave the idea a moment's thought. It certainly presented interesting possibilities. "Why not?" he said finally. "But not tonight. I'll get our schedules coordinated for some night next secton." So saying, he gave Starbuck's shoulders a parting squeeze and winked at his sister as he passed on his way to his quarters.
Athena kissed Starbuck full on the lips, then whispering "see you soon", went on her way in the opposite direction, leaving Starbuck, shocked and shaking, alone in the dim corridor.
'I might as well have not been there at all,' he thought bitterly. 'They could have been talking about sharing a plate of mushies.' He slid down the wall to a sitting position and cradled his head in his arms as the tears fell. Sometimes, even knowing what he was and what to expect from it, he still hurt.
PART 7 - Becky
"I can't live like this anymore . . . It's time to stop serving." Starbuck sobbed.
"Lieutenant Starbuck, are you all right?" Colonel Tigh asked as he rounded the corner to see Starbuck setting on the floor.
"Yes, Sir . . . Just a little tired, Sir." Starbuck stammered as he stood up and quickly tried to compose himself.
"Ah . . . So, who was it this time . . . Athena, Cassiopeia or Apollo?" Colonel Tigh asked with a broad smile as he stepped closer and became highly aware of the scent that was lingering to Starbuck.
"Sir!" Starbuck exclaimed in horror as he stared, wide eyed at Colonel Tigh. *Sagan . . . If the Colonel knows, my life's over*
"There's no need to be concerned, Lieutenant . . . I'm sure no one else knows, but you can't hide from your own kind."
"You're . . . You're bisexual?"
"No, but my son was homosexual . . . And I can tell you from what he told me of his experiences. That with time, you'll find that keeping your sexuality a secret from the others will only continue to get harder."
"It's hard enough, already." Starbuck sighed and lowering his head, he stared at the floor. "Did your son ever come out of the closet?"
"Yes . . . He lost a lot of friends, some of our family found it unsettling and his instructors at the academy was none too happy, but he didn't have to hide or worry about who might happen to turn a corner at an opportune time."
"I never thought about that." Starbuck mumbled as he leaned against the wall.
"Well, you should." Colonel Tigh said and quickly walked off, leaving Starbuck alone with his thoughts.
*Everything'll change . . . But I'll find who my real friends are and . . . my lovers are* Starbuck thought as he headed back to the bachelors quarters for a shower and some sleep.
PART 8 - Rita G Mac Auslan
'Time to stop serving. Time to come out of the closet. If I *chose* my partners it would be easy. Well, easier. But I never have. I choose who *not* to serve, or I did until Apollo and now Athena, but never, not even with Cass, did I really make the first move.' Starbuck reflected. 'If only I had someone to talk to.' But that was a lost cause, too. He couldn't really tell Tigh what was going on - he couldn't betray his Commander that way. He couldn't talk to Boomer, not with this kind of problem. He tried to think of other alternatives. 'Cass? Lords, no! Maybe when it was just Adama, but with Apollo and now - Oh Gods! - Athena? Never.' No one had ever taken his problems seriously anyway. Why should they, when he took such great care to build a persona so shallow and self-centered he couldn't possibly *have* serious problems.
'I could tell them no, that I can't do it,' he thought. 'The Commander would respect my wishes - I think. But he needs me. He doesn't have anyone else he could turn to. I can't do that. I can refuse Apollo and Athena though. They can go elsewhere. Hell, they can pick and choose together or separately. No, bucko,' he reminded himself. 'You tried that with Apollo once. It didn't work. And if you turn Athena down, after dumping her for Cass, there's no telling what she'll do - you could not only be out of the closet, but out an airlock!'
That turned his thoughts in yet another depressing direction - what would Apollo and Athena want? The thing about being with - all right, in all honesty, serving - women, even if they chose him, was that his dignity - false though it might be - was left intact. Mutual pleasure, no degradation or humiliation. Not true with men. When Adama said "not yet", he could and did control his body. It might be degrading, but Adama was so far above him it didn't feel wrong, and so caring that it didn't matter.
But with Apollo, his body was always slightly out of his control. He loved the man, plain and simple. He couldn't serve obediently. His body gave him away time and again. Apollo's lack of anger, his compassionate understanding, only made the humiliation worse. And when Athena saw that - well, she wasn't going to want a quick fuck, she was going to want to be served, too. Here was her chance to get her revenge on every hurt Starbuck had inflicted on her. 'You deserve it, bucko. You deserve whatever they throw at you,' he told himself bitterly. 'Tigh meant well, but his son was probably a good human being who loved and was loved equally by his partners. Tigh couldn't know the difference, but don't try to con yourself. You know what you are.'
His viewscreen beeped. Next secton's schedule. While he was scanning it, another message came in. From Apollo. Starbuck sighed and opened the message. It contained a little more than he expected and frightened him. Time, place, attire - and the requirement of bringing another set of clothes to wear after the session.
***
The room was pitch black, but not vacant. Starbuck was stopped just within the door by a hand on his forearm. Someone moved behind him and blindfolded him. The person in front of him to his duffle of clothes. Through the blindfold he could tell the lights had been turned up, but light and dark were all he could see. The person in front of him took his hands and drew him forward. As his hands were released by one, his arms were pulled behind him by the other.
The summons had told him to wear no undergarments. Now his boots were carefully taken off by the person in front of him. The one behind laughed softly. "I forgot those last time," Apollo confessed.
"Men," Athena retorted. She drew closer and Starbuck heard the snick of a knife opening. He drew back in panic, only to be held in place by Apollo's strong arms. One by one, the buttons of his shirt were cut off. Then the seams of his shirt were sliced open, so that it fell off his shoulders to the floor between him and Apollo. He heard Apollo kick it away.
Although Starbuck's pants were still on, he was exposed to Athena - and her knife. She ran the blade around his jaw and Starbuck whimpered. In response, Athena raised the point to his lips and pricked the cupid's bow with the tip. "I thought silence was the rule. Do you need to be gagged?" she purred. Starbuck shook his head no although he was unable to control his body's shaking. The knife moved to his Adam's apple and traced its shape without cutting, then down the breast bone to circle each nipple in turn.
Athena turned the knife on edge under the nipple and Starbuck lost control. "Don't," he begged. "Please don't!"
Without a word, Apollo changed to a one-handed grip and reached around to shove a balled cloth into his mouth. The knife's pressure was removed as Athena secured the gag with tape. Then the knife returned to Starbuck's nipple. He felt the pressure increase upward and terror took over his body. The violent shaking caused the knife to bite into his skin. That in turn caused him to lose control of his bladder, wetting his pants. Starbuck was racked with sobs, totally out of control. Legs refusing to hold him, he slumped towards the floor, heedless of Apollo's grip or the knife.
"Athena! That's enough!" Apollo's voice was harsh. Apollo followed Starbuck's movements, gentling his fall, then removing gag and blindfold. Starbuck's eyes were tightly closed, with tears streaming from them. Apollo cradled him against his chest, stroking his face with one hand.
Athena knelt in front of Starbuck, watching him calm under her brother's ministrations. When he was no longer hysterical, she gently pulled his legs out straight and removed the soiled pants. When she returned from disposing of them, Apollo was speaking softly to Starbuck, who remained in his arms, eyes closed.
"We got carried away, Starbuck. We didn't mean to terrorize you, just to play." Starbuck nodded against Apollo's chest. Apollo exchanged a glance with his sister, then continued. "Do you want to get dressed and go?"
Starbuck pulled himself together mentally, still keeping his eyes closed. He straightened in Apollo's lap and felt his friend's clothing rub against his skin.. Apollo was fully dressed and Starbuck guessed that Athena was also. Further shame at his own nakedness surged through him.
Although Apollo would have hated to admit it, Athena's performance had turned him on and Starbuck's terror-filled response had only added to his lust. Starbuck noticed this, too, and reminded himself of his role. There was no place for what *he* wanted here. "Permission to speak?" he whispered.
"Go ahead," Apollo urged.
"I can continue. I won't lose control again, I promise."
"Okay," Apollo said uncertainly, not sure of why Starbuck would not run out of the room, naked if necessary. "But we won't restrain you in any way." Starbuck nodded.
Apollo quickly covered his mouth in a kiss that began gently and deepened. He held it until he ran out of breath. Looking over his friend's head, he prompted his sister, "Athena?"
Athena had been silent, watching her brother's love for Starbuck unfold before her. No wonder she never won his heart. It wasn't Cass who was her rival. She leaned forward and took Starbuck's face in her hands. She gave him a long, but surprisingly chaste, kiss.
Athena leaned back and admired the lean body. 'One last time,' she thought. "Open your eyes, Starbuck," she instructed gently as she pulled him to his feet. He obeyed with difficulty, not wanting to see the two siblings appraising his body. Apollo rose behind him, holding him around the waist, his erect teasing Starbuck's rear.
Athena held him at arms' length and watched her brother lean into contact. Then she did the same. The siblings rubbed themselves along Starbuck's body until both were panting. Then Athena stepped back. "Show me what you do," she asked.
Apollo guided Starbuck to the wide chaise on the side wall. Placing him on his side in the center,, he slid between Starbuck and the wall, opening his pants to free his straining organ. Using his own moisture, he opened Starbuck with his fingers. He would have liked to give Starbuck some pleasure that way, but his own demands wouldn't allow it. Instead, he reached around to stroke Starbuck's still soft penis as he thrust into him.
Athena knelt in front of the chaise watching. She had never seen two men have sex together. As Apollo pumped, Starbuck began moving in matching rhythm, meeting each forward thrust of Apollo's into his body with a backward thrust of his buttocks and hips.
Athena watched as the combined sensations brought Starbuck to full erection. Then it was too much for her to just watch. She lay down facing Starbuck and replaced her brother's hand with her own on the now rigid shaft. Firmly, she moved it to her own moist opening. Apollo slowed to a rocking motion to accommodate the new configuration.
Barely able to get words out, Starbuck gasped, "Permission to speak?" in a desperate voice.
Athena nodded.
"I can't control myself. If I'm inside you, I'll come. I won't be able to stop it." He seemed ashamed of his statements, reddening as he spoke.
"That's all right," she assured him. "You don't have to try to hold back."
Starbuck nodded and tentatively put his arms around her, resting them on her buttocks. When she didn't resist, he pulled her to him and slid easily into her warm wetness. Athena sighed with satisfaction. Apollo began thrusting again, slowly at first to allow Starbuck to establish a rhythm between his two lovers, then more quickly as his need became more urgent. The thoughts of his sister on the other side of his lover aroused Apollo even further and he exploded into Starbuck. The violence of Apollo's ejaculation, thrust Starbuck deeper into Athena, who clenched around him with her own orgasm. Athena's rhythmic spasms took Starbuck over the edge, for a release he had not anticipated. He collapsed unconscious between the two siblings.
When Starbuck regained consciousness, Athena was gone. He lay on the chaise, being washed with a warm wet cloth by Apollo. When Apollo realized Starbuck was conscious, he knelt next to him, stroking his face. "We won't do that again, Starbuck. You knew you couldn't handle it didn't you?" Starbuck hesitated, then nodded. "Why didn't you say something?"
Starbuck shrugged and turned away. Apollo couldn't bring himself to force his friend after his traumatic evening. He reached for Starbuck's change of clothes and carefully dressed him, then kissed him gently and unlocked the door.
PART 9 - Claire
"Dismissed." Adama watched as the people in his office stood up and started towards the door. "Starbuck, wait a micron, please, I'd like a word with you."
Starbuck nodded at the Commander. "Certainly, sir."
Apollo waited behind with Starbuck.
"Apollo, you can go," Adama said, looking at his son.
"Father, if this is something to do with the patrol then I should be here." Apollo looked between Adama and Starbuck, obvious questions in his eyes.
"This isn't about the patrol," Adama answered.
Apollo's eyes narrowed slightly, but he nodded and left the office.
Waiting until the door had closed behind his son, Adama studied Starbuck. The younger man was standing to attention, the tenseness radiating through his body. "Relax, Starbuck," the Commander said softly.
Starbuck didn't relax fully, but some of the stiffness went out of his posture.
"Starbuck, what's wrong?" Adama asked.
"Sir?"
Adama sighed. Standing up, he walked around the desk and laid a hand on Starbuck's arm. He gently led the Lieutenant over to the couch against the wall and sat him down. "Starbuck, I'm concerned about you."
"Concerned? Why?"
"Because I know something's wrong. You've been avoiding me ever since that night in my quarters, and then when I saw you in the corridor. I want to know why."
"I don't know what you-"
"*Starbuck!*" Adama snapped, closing his eyes in regret at his harsh tone when Starbuck visibly flinched. "Starbuck," Adama started again, "if there's a problem, then I might be able to help." He reached out and took one of Starbuck's hands in his own, gently caressing the palm.
Starbuck slowly raised his head and looked into the concerned eyes of his Commander. "I... it's just something I have to work through."
Adama nodded, unhappy with the answer, but unable to demand that Starbuck tell him exactly what the problem was. "Very well. But, remember, I'll be here if you ever need to speak to me."
Starbuck smiled shakily, but didn't answer.
"You'd better go," Adama said, standing up. "There'll be too many questions if you stay here too long."
Starbuck nodded, and headed towards the door. Before he opened it, he turned back to Adama. "Thank you," he said, the words barely audible.
Adama watched as the door closed behind the young Lieutenant, before he sat back down. Leaning his head on the back of the couch, Adama closed his eyes. "Oh, Sagan," he murmured to himself, "what am I going to do?" Standing up, he walked over to the window and looked out at the stars streaking by. "I love him," he whispered. "Sagan help me, I love him, and I don't know what to do about it." Sighing when the stars didn't answer, Adama turned away from the window and went back to his desk. Picking up the report Tigh had given him, Adama began to look through it, ignoring the visions of blue eyes that danced through his mind.
PART 10 - Rachel Hunter
Starbuck left Adama's his mind buzzing. When did things get so complicated? He always found kindness so much harder to accept then cruelty. Adama's gentle concern had made him realise how worthless he was. Now Apollo was probably suspicious. He wished he could return Adama's love, but although he was eternally grateful to the older man and cared for him, he knew his heart and soul belonged to Apollo. They always had and always would. Occasionally the lieutenant believed his captain loved him but mostly he felt that Apollo enjoyed the sex, saw him as a friend but was just waiting for his next great love. When she came along Starbuck knew that this torture and bliss would end. He both dreaded the time and wished for it. His choices would be much easier then.
PART 11 - Rita G Mac Auslan
The hand that pulled him into the utility closet was not entirely unexpected. "What did my father want?" Apollo demanded.
"He doesn't suspect us, if that's what you're asking," Starbuck sighed. He didn't bother to try to break free of Apollo's grasp.
"Good," Apollo breathed in his ear, confirming Starbuck's suspicions. Maybe now Apollo would let him go. No such luck. "Be in my quarters at the end of my duty cycle."
"Your *quarters*"?
"Yeah," Apollo grinned, leaning back. "Boxey's got a sleep-cycle adventure on the agro-ship. My bet is it's like when we used to go off into the mountains - ghost stories around the campfire and some pretext of nature study."
"Mmm, I don't think I ever got to go on one of those - not until the Academy survival treks."
Apollo laughed. "Slightly different I would say." He leaned in close and Starbuck felt Apollo's erection grind against him. His own responded in kind. "I'll have to see what I can do to take you on such an excursion some time. Apollo pressed a quick kiss on his lips. "Until late cycle, then.," he whispered, releasing Starbuck.
Starbuck nodded and Apollo was gone. Starbuck scrubbed at his face and steadied his breathing before leaving the closet. This didn't feel like serving. It felt like love. No, he wouldn't be free until Apollo no longer wanted him.
***
Adama hadn't called for him in several sectons, Starbuck reflected, as he headed towards the Officer's Lounge. Not since Siress Tinia had become his Council liaison. They seemed to spend more than the required amount of time together off the bridge, he thought and smiled. Apollo, too, had not required his services since their night together in his quarters. He seemed to have his hands full with Boxey lately. The boy was turning into a teenager with all the attendant issues with parental limits. And with Adama occupied, Apollo had to devote himself to being a father. As he chuckled to himself at this, the parent in question's voice reached Starbuck's ears.
"Starbuck! Wait up, buddy!"
Starbuck stopped and turned, putting a smile on his face. He reminded himself that Apollo wouldn't accost him in public. The smile froze when he saw Athena keeping pace with her brother.
"Hi, Starbuck!" Athena greeted him. "Where are you headed?."
"Athena, Apollo," Starbuck greeted them. "Just off to the Officer's Lounge for a bite to eat."
"Why don't you join us instead?" Athena offered. She was about to continue when she noticed Starbuck's reaction to her invitation.
Starbuck put up his hands as if to ward off a blow and stepped back against the bulkhead. "No, no, please," he whispered. He looked at Apollo in despair. "You said - " he began, but couldn't continue. His throat closed and he began trembling uncontrollably.
Athena and Apollo looked from their distressed friend to each other in confusion, then suddenly Apollo realized what Starbuck was thinking. Waving Athena back, he approached the shaking Lieutenant and firmly grasped his face in both hands, forcing Starbuck to look directly at him. "Listen to me, Starbuck. We were inviting you to join us for dinner. That's all. Do you understand?" He waited until Starbuck blinked and nodded in comprehension before he released him.
"I'm sorry," Starbuck murmured, chagrined and embarrassed. He rubbed at his face, then looked at the siblings. "I can't do this with friends - I can't separate the two."
"Starbuck, what are you talking about?" Athena whispered, coming closer.
"Not here," Apollo said. "Let's go to my office." At Starbuck's anxious glance, he added, "Just to talk."
***
"Okay, what's going on?" Athena demanded. "This can't *still* be about that night a quarter-yahren ago?"
Both men replied, "Yes," but Starbuck continued. "I've served all my life. It's what I was brought up to do." He shrugged at their shocked looks. "Like Cass being a socialator, only more discreet, more private, you might say. Being a warrior made it easier for some. I don't get paid for it, but then I don't need to. But I've never served a friend before. And I can't do it. It's too hard to separate the relationships. And with the three of you - "
"Three?" The siblings spoke at once.
'Oh, Gods, what have I said!' was Starbuck's last thought as his over-burdened brain retreated into unconsciousness.
PART 12 - Rachel Hunter
Starbuck struggled against consciousness .He knew when he opened his eyes that he couldn't hide any longer, would have face an unpleasant reality.
However the voice was persistent, a buzzing getting louder.
He opened his eyes and looked into a pair of startled green orbs.
Memory returned in a flash. He'd nearly exposed Adama's secret, betrayed the one man who showed him kindness, to the two people who would least accept it.
As the Captain helped him to his feet, and guided him gently to a chair,
Starbuck recognised the look on his face. His friend expected answers and wouldn't accept anything but the truth.
"Starbuck. What did you mean when you said the three of you?"
A dozen lies spread through Starbuck's mind and he dismissed them all. He had to tell Adama before he told Apollo anything. He owed it to the man for the many kindnesses the older man had shown him.
He looked Apollo deep in the eyes. Attempting to make his friend understand.
"Apollo I will tell you. Tonight, but I have to speak to someone first."
Starbuck saw a determined look enter the captain's eyes but he held the other man's gaze. Starbuck knew his defiance shocked Apollo slightly. He nearly always deferred to Apollo at times like this. Not this time. He had a different loyalty to defer to.
"Okay Starbuck, but you'd better explain everything to Athena and I soon."
"Soon Apollo. I promise."
Without another word Starbuck stood and left Apollo staring after him.
UNFINISHED