Setting
The skyline of Caprica City is distinguished by a number of prominent skyscrapers, with ultramodern glass and metal architecture intermingled with older, brick and stone buildings. The city is also populated by a number of statues bearing the likenesses of the Lords of Kobol
At night, the city is illuminated by hundreds of neon lights and animated billboards.
Locations within Caprica City are.
Apollo Park is a sprawling recreation area located above street level; essentially a large amphitheater with cafes, landscaped with trees and a grassy area. Apollo Park is distinguished by a large statue of the God Apollo
Atlas Arena is the home court of the Caprica City Buccaneers pyramid team. Owned by wealthy industrialist Daniel Graystone, the stadium hosts teams from many of the Imperial Worlds, including the Gemenon Twins and the Tauron Bulls, as well as the Pyramid Worlds Championships games. Able to accommodate more than 30,000 fans, Atlas Arena stands in downtown Caprica City - along one of its waterways - and features a large statue of Atlas himself
The Riverwalk section of Caprica City is an open-air promenade and park area. Landscaped with fountains and large reflecting pools, as well as playground equipment for families with children, the Riverwalk also features a large bazaar with vendors and other amenities
Orpheus Park is another large public park in Caprica City, this one located outside the downtown area. Distinguished by a network of jogging paths, large wooded areas and open fields providing mountain vistas.
The sprawling campus of Graystone Industries - the Caprica-based technology company owned by industrialist, scientist, and capitalist Daniel Graystone - is located near the waterfront of Caprica City. Spread throughout several modern buildings dominated by a pentagonal tower, Graystone Industries' campus houses labs, offices, boardrooms, landing pads for aircraft and a "big, beautiful" gym, complete with boxing ring. It is at its Caprica City campus that the company pioneers such technology as the holoband and the U-87 Cyber Combat Unit
Among Caprica City's more diverse locations is Little Tauron, an ethnic enclave home to a sizable population of Tauron immigrants. Within the neighborhood, residents often speak the Tauron language and own and operate shops catering to Tauron cultural needs, including grocery stores, butchers and printing shops. Despite the family residences and peace of the neighborhood, members of the Ha'la'tha crime syndicate are widely known operate in relative comfort within the confines of Little Tauron, walking the streets with near impunity
Like any major metropolitan area, Caprica City provides a wealth of residential areas of varying economy for its citizens, from high density suburban housing to luxurious seaside and lakeside homes. Away from the urban sprawl and skyscrapers of downtown Caprica, families lived in tract housing and middle-class neighborhoods, with trash pickup provided by the city.
Schools in the area included Athena Academy, a private institute devoted to the teachings of the Goddess Athena as wells public schools like Wilson Elementary School, Promethia High School and Apollo University.
Mass transit in Caprica City was carried out a number of ways including city buses, taxi cabs and the Metropolitan Levitation Mass Transit system, or MLMT train. Operating both below ground and on elevated platforms, the MagLev train provided public transport to destinations all over Caprica City, including Atlas Arena and the city's spaceports. A network of expressways and freeways link various sections of the city together, but are often congested.
Minimap
northwest |
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northeast |
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You are here. |
east |
southwest |
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southeast |
| "in" to Caprica City Cosmodrome » | ||
Caprica City is a part of 
Caprica.
7 Places in Caprica City:
35 Characters Here
Dominic Hagan [204] The illegitimate son of Miles Hagan; an ambitious young man with all the time and money in the world.
Casey Delancy [104] WCPD's newest Chief of Police
Confederation Protection Force [102] The notorious Aschen CPF, committed to keeping the Aschen Safe.
Helene Chaska [86] The Minister of Defense for the United Aschen Empire
Daessee [73] See it, Want it, Tantrum, Get It :)
Sire Thomas Zarek [69] Sire of the Sagittaron Province and Member of the House of Parliament of the Aschen Confederation.
Julianna Hagan [63] After Tech Con was given to her half-brother, Dominic Hagan, Julia finds herself a nominee for Miss Multiverse.
The Guatrau [58] Leader of the Tauron based Ha'la'tha
Zak Resdon [57] Aschen Intelligence Officer.
Leanne McGregor [55] The cousin of Raphael McGregor studying law at Caprican Institute of Legal Ethics but aspires to become an actress.
Start Character Here »
"That's enough Mr. Kesslee..."
The voice seemingly came out of nowhere, firm and commanding. At first the Confessor whipped around as if ready to gut the source of the voice, but his demeanor quickly turned from the prosecution of heretics, to a deference to authority.
"As you wish..." The Confessor replied, taking a step back as another middle aged dark haired man stepped into the streetlight from the shadows.
"My guests were just taking a break from the auction going on, return to your post, Mr. Kesslee." The man said, extending a hand to Dominic.
"As much as I don't care for your blatant disregard for this Empire... Mr Hagan; I don't want to explain to your father why one of my Confessors gutted you in a back alley." The man said, turning to Daesee.
"Whose your friend? Another one of your conquests?" The man inquired.
The voice seemingly came out of nowhere, firm and commanding. At first the Confessor whipped around as if ready to gut the source of the voice, but his demeanor quickly turned from the prosecution of heretics, to a deference to authority.
"As you wish..." The Confessor replied, taking a step back as another middle aged dark haired man stepped into the streetlight from the shadows.
"My guests were just taking a break from the auction going on, return to your post, Mr. Kesslee." The man said, extending a hand to Dominic.
"As much as I don't care for your blatant disregard for this Empire... Mr Hagan; I don't want to explain to your father why one of my Confessors gutted you in a back alley." The man said, turning to Daesee.
"Whose your friend? Another one of your conquests?" The man inquired.
"And leave you to yourself in the streets of Caprica?" Dominic smiled, shaking his head, "you are charming and brave, Ms. Waters, but this is not Terra. Birthright and lineage counts for much in this place, I'm afraid. Your best bet as survival is sticking with someone who has those things. Make friends with them..." He grinned at her. "...or be a member of their 'sex cult', as I believe you so delicately put it earlier."
The voice put down Kesslee's aggression and immediately brought Dominic to full attention. It was a voice he knew well.
"Your Divine Shadow," Dominic bowed again. His bow towards Kesslee had been polite and cautious - his bow towards Mollem was contrite and humble. "I am honored. Thank you for your..." he looked hesitantly towards the darkness that the confessor had disappeared into. "...assistance." He gestured towards, Daessee. "This is Miss Alaska Waters, a friend and one of my guests this evening."
Dominic was slightly unsure what to make of Mollem. Not too long ago, the emperor had been strutting around in dark robes, demanding religious reverence and worship as a god. Though some of the elements of that regime still remained, much had dissipated. Mollem looked and acted more like an emperor and a politician now and less like a tyrannical antichrist.
The voice put down Kesslee's aggression and immediately brought Dominic to full attention. It was a voice he knew well.
"Your Divine Shadow," Dominic bowed again. His bow towards Kesslee had been polite and cautious - his bow towards Mollem was contrite and humble. "I am honored. Thank you for your..." he looked hesitantly towards the darkness that the confessor had disappeared into. "...assistance." He gestured towards, Daessee. "This is Miss Alaska Waters, a friend and one of my guests this evening."
Dominic was slightly unsure what to make of Mollem. Not too long ago, the emperor had been strutting around in dark robes, demanding religious reverence and worship as a god. Though some of the elements of that regime still remained, much had dissipated. Mollem looked and acted more like an emperor and a politician now and less like a tyrannical antichrist.
"You put reckless so politely, Mr. Hagan" she couldn't help laughing a little, shaking her head. When a new figure appeared, the atmosphere changed dramatically. She listened to his words, frowning ever so slightly. Watching Dominic's behaviour, she paused before speaking. "With all due respect Sir," She gave a small, neat courtsey as she addressed him, the smile never leaving her lips. "I am not just a mere 'conquest'" there was no hint of her having taken offence at his comment, her face impassive. "Mr. Hagan here was just giving me a moonlit tour. It is so pretty here after dark" she let her eyes scan their surroundings, coming to rest on Dominic. She wasn't going to let his 'sex cult' comment slip by her, but she sensed now was perhaps not the time to be making jokes.
Although she typically had a blatant disregard for authority, she really had no desire to drag Dominic down with her. For tonight, she decided she would do her best to behave. Besides, she didn't exactly want to get banned. It seemed like there was far too much fun to be had exploring her surroundings. They had a room at a small hotel nearby, her parents intention being they head home first thing tomorrow. She made a mental note to be gone before they woke
Although she typically had a blatant disregard for authority, she really had no desire to drag Dominic down with her. For tonight, she decided she would do her best to behave. Besides, she didn't exactly want to get banned. It seemed like there was far too much fun to be had exploring her surroundings. They had a room at a small hotel nearby, her parents intention being they head home first thing tomorrow. She made a mental note to be gone before they woke
-- Two years later--
Much had changed within the Aschen Empire in the year that had passed. Some old foundations of Aschen government and culture remained. However there was a new Emperor, and a new political party. The Imperial Socialist party, dedicated to rooting out much of the corruption that had plagued Aschen society had taken root within Aschen Government.
It was this home that Casey Delancey found herself in, through the changes, the elections, and the coronation of a new Emperor. It was here that she was protected from Sharashka and the Hammer and Star Bratva. With the blessings of the Guatrau, whom offered a sponsorship to become a citizen of the United Aschen Empire, and the second Terran in Aschen History to receive this sponsorship.
All along the way, Casey had been assigned a public integration officer through the Central Protection Force, this officer happened to be a very close friend of an old flame of Casey's, Lieutenant James McKenna.
Much of the political wrangling behind the scenes, along with the paperwork and bureaucracy had come to a close, and McKenna was driving along the lone Farm-to-market road that lined the interior of Southern Alpheus's coastline. The Estate belonging to Casey coming up in the distance.
McKenna glanced slightly to a large manila folder on the seat, emblazoned with the Ministry of Defense's office of Immigration and Naturalization. The final step in a long, arduous legal road that was the Aschen's Immigration process.
Much had changed within the Aschen Empire in the year that had passed. Some old foundations of Aschen government and culture remained. However there was a new Emperor, and a new political party. The Imperial Socialist party, dedicated to rooting out much of the corruption that had plagued Aschen society had taken root within Aschen Government.
It was this home that Casey Delancey found herself in, through the changes, the elections, and the coronation of a new Emperor. It was here that she was protected from Sharashka and the Hammer and Star Bratva. With the blessings of the Guatrau, whom offered a sponsorship to become a citizen of the United Aschen Empire, and the second Terran in Aschen History to receive this sponsorship.
All along the way, Casey had been assigned a public integration officer through the Central Protection Force, this officer happened to be a very close friend of an old flame of Casey's, Lieutenant James McKenna.
Much of the political wrangling behind the scenes, along with the paperwork and bureaucracy had come to a close, and McKenna was driving along the lone Farm-to-market road that lined the interior of Southern Alpheus's coastline. The Estate belonging to Casey coming up in the distance.
McKenna glanced slightly to a large manila folder on the seat, emblazoned with the Ministry of Defense's office of Immigration and Naturalization. The final step in a long, arduous legal road that was the Aschen's Immigration process.
The land she’d been gifted was fruitful, generous and sprawling with greenery. The close-cropped grass was fragrant in the heat of high noon. Her home stood at the peak of a gradual slope, foothills that eventually grew into the mountains where Caprica City was nestled. The modest home, white-washed and quaint and filled with windows that were open to the outdoors, looked like something out of a storybook. It was only recently where she felt like she could liken this place to anything she’d call home. She was healed, whole again, and had lived without threat for more than a year. She could breathe again, and even if there was a sort of melancholy in her smile, the smiles came more easily these days.
She stepped outside, jeans rolled to mid-shin and her long sleeves pushed up to the elbows. Her hands and feet were smudged with dirt, as if she’d been working in the yard all morning. Judging by the way her long hair was falling from it’s bun, slicked to her temples by moisture, it wouldn’t be hard to guess.
She looked out towards the coast, eyes narrowed against the glare of the sun, and breathed a sigh. She’d never had a day off in Terra, so taking this extended vacation had done wonders for her mental and physical health. Her scars had all but vanished beneath tanned skin, and she was as strong as she had ever been.
Yet, she had to admit, the integration process had been lengthy, and she found herself a bit overcome with anxiety as she realized that the process would soon be coming to a close.
She stepped outside, jeans rolled to mid-shin and her long sleeves pushed up to the elbows. Her hands and feet were smudged with dirt, as if she’d been working in the yard all morning. Judging by the way her long hair was falling from it’s bun, slicked to her temples by moisture, it wouldn’t be hard to guess.
She looked out towards the coast, eyes narrowed against the glare of the sun, and breathed a sigh. She’d never had a day off in Terra, so taking this extended vacation had done wonders for her mental and physical health. Her scars had all but vanished beneath tanned skin, and she was as strong as she had ever been.
Yet, she had to admit, the integration process had been lengthy, and she found herself a bit overcome with anxiety as she realized that the process would soon be coming to a close.
McKenna had brought the lone CPF Car to a halt in the driveway to the lone estate. The south of Caprica had been quite beautiful, a contrast to the towering skyscrapers of the city that Mckenna so commonly worked in.
McKenna checked his watch. He had hoped that Randin had gotten his message. Having sent it via Courier service.
Pulling the key out of the ignition, McKenna grabbed the manila folder and pushed the door open with an audible clunk. He pushed his hair back, and then he stepped to the side, and closed the door behind him. Adjusting his coat, which served to keep him warm from the brisk Caprican chill, he approached the large whitewashed house that was so typical of Aschen architecture.
"Miss Casey!" McKenna called out as he made his way up the gradual slope.
"How's work treating you? Finally starting to settle in?"
McKenna checked his watch. He had hoped that Randin had gotten his message. Having sent it via Courier service.
Pulling the key out of the ignition, McKenna grabbed the manila folder and pushed the door open with an audible clunk. He pushed his hair back, and then he stepped to the side, and closed the door behind him. Adjusting his coat, which served to keep him warm from the brisk Caprican chill, he approached the large whitewashed house that was so typical of Aschen architecture.
"Miss Casey!" McKenna called out as he made his way up the gradual slope.
"How's work treating you? Finally starting to settle in?"
"It's absolutely grueling." Casey cried with a smile, her voice carried downslope with the breeze. She waved a hand over her head, glancing back over her shoulder as a child of maybe seven or eight years poked his head out the door. His eyes widened, and he quickly disappeared back inside.
She let her hand fall, and slowly made her way down so she could meet him half-way. "The Delancy Estate is peaceful and quiet as usual. Can I get you anything? There's fresh coffee." She tried not to appear too eager, but her eyes did stray to the manila envelope in his hand.
She let her hand fall, and slowly made her way down so she could meet him half-way. "The Delancy Estate is peaceful and quiet as usual. Can I get you anything? There's fresh coffee." She tried not to appear too eager, but her eyes did stray to the manila envelope in his hand.
McKenna let his eyes briefly move back to the CPF Car. McKenna had a passenger with him, someone he had told was to clear his name with the new Imperial Administration.
McKenna offered a brief smile to the small child that popped out from behind Casey, before he opened up the Manila envelope, withdrawing a white piece of paper.
"Unfortunately it never ends. But you're doing the gods' work for these children. Children who would have no future otherwise." He added.
"All's quiet on the homefront, and I've got good news and a suprise." McKenna said, as he extended his hand and offered the paper to Casey. "By decree of the Imperial Administration, and confirmed by the Ministry of Defense, it's my pleasure to disclose your final approval." He said, as he withdrew a smaller white envelope, handing it off, inside Casey would find a tamper resistant document, an Imperial Certificate of Naturalization, with an Imperial International ID card taped to the paper, Central registry ID number, and official declaration of Citizenship.
"As a full Citizen of the United Aschen Empire, in good standing, with the rights and responsibilities therein." McKenna said, as he stepped aside, glancing to the car.
McKenna offered a brief smile to the small child that popped out from behind Casey, before he opened up the Manila envelope, withdrawing a white piece of paper.
"Unfortunately it never ends. But you're doing the gods' work for these children. Children who would have no future otherwise." He added.
"All's quiet on the homefront, and I've got good news and a suprise." McKenna said, as he extended his hand and offered the paper to Casey. "By decree of the Imperial Administration, and confirmed by the Ministry of Defense, it's my pleasure to disclose your final approval." He said, as he withdrew a smaller white envelope, handing it off, inside Casey would find a tamper resistant document, an Imperial Certificate of Naturalization, with an Imperial International ID card taped to the paper, Central registry ID number, and official declaration of Citizenship.
"As a full Citizen of the United Aschen Empire, in good standing, with the rights and responsibilities therein." McKenna said, as he stepped aside, glancing to the car.
Randin sat in the passenger seat of McKenna's car, absently running his hands through his hair. He checked his watch for the fifth time. This was their third stop. Though Kaye was thankful to his old friend for escorting him to the Imperial Palace, he was a bit impatient with the laundry list of duties the officer was seeing to before they got there. A case folder needed dropping off at the precinct. A statement needed taking from a Tauron gentleman at a local bistro. Now, McKenna needed to alert someone of their citizenship. One thing after the other.
The detective looked out the window, brow perking at the pretty brunette that met Jim at the front door. She was a bit far off for Randin to see clearly, but she looked familiar. Something about the smile...
He would have just waited in the car had the small talk not gone on for so long. This was ridiculous. Randin was technically a fugitive on this planet - they couldn't waste anymore time with pleasantries. He needed to get to the palace immediately. Straightening his shirt, he decided to politely interrupt them and remind McKenna of their haste.
"Jimmy!" he stepped out of the vehicle, waiving to his friend. He straightened his tie and closed the door behind him before proceeding down the walkway. He nodded to the girl as he approached them, offering her a smile. "Ma'am." He turned back to his friend. "Jim, I know you've got your assignments, but-"
A double take. Randin's words caught in his mouth, his eyes flashing back to the woman before him. His brows furrowed. He -did- recognize her. She was almost the spitting image of Casey before...
"...Case...?" he said the words slowly, hesitantly. Fear flashed across his eyes - followed closely by hope.
The detective looked out the window, brow perking at the pretty brunette that met Jim at the front door. She was a bit far off for Randin to see clearly, but she looked familiar. Something about the smile...
He would have just waited in the car had the small talk not gone on for so long. This was ridiculous. Randin was technically a fugitive on this planet - they couldn't waste anymore time with pleasantries. He needed to get to the palace immediately. Straightening his shirt, he decided to politely interrupt them and remind McKenna of their haste.
"Jimmy!" he stepped out of the vehicle, waiving to his friend. He straightened his tie and closed the door behind him before proceeding down the walkway. He nodded to the girl as he approached them, offering her a smile. "Ma'am." He turned back to his friend. "Jim, I know you've got your assignments, but-"
A double take. Randin's words caught in his mouth, his eyes flashing back to the woman before him. His brows furrowed. He -did- recognize her. She was almost the spitting image of Casey before...
"...Case...?" he said the words slowly, hesitantly. Fear flashed across his eyes - followed closely by hope.
“Just doing what I can.” Casey replied, sighing to herself. She briefly glanced to meet McKenna’s eyes, her smile growing as he mentioned the news, and formally presented her with her citizenship documents. The thrill that moved through her as she took them into her hands was indescribable, the physical representation of one chapter closing and another one opening. Even still, she only had moments to marvel at this milestone before she heard a voice calling for her friend.
It was a voice out of her dreams, that urgent, commanding, no-nonsense tone that often softened around familiar company and when not influenced by the stress of a heavy caseload. Still, she believed it to be coincidental, repeating that to herself over and over again as the man got out of his car and walked towards them. The way he held himself, his expression chiseled by time and too many burdens for one man to carry. She didn’t know what startled her most, the fact that he was there, in front of her for the first time since he’d left her practically at death’s doorstep with a goodbye and a broken heart, or the fact that he didn’t recognize her. Not at first, anyway.
Her mouth had fallen open, grey eyes wide, a chaotic swirl of emotion. It felt like an eternity before she regained composure, glancing to McKenna before meeting Randin’s tentative gaze.
She nodded, slowly, her posture relaxing. “Wow, Randin…”
It was a voice out of her dreams, that urgent, commanding, no-nonsense tone that often softened around familiar company and when not influenced by the stress of a heavy caseload. Still, she believed it to be coincidental, repeating that to herself over and over again as the man got out of his car and walked towards them. The way he held himself, his expression chiseled by time and too many burdens for one man to carry. She didn’t know what startled her most, the fact that he was there, in front of her for the first time since he’d left her practically at death’s doorstep with a goodbye and a broken heart, or the fact that he didn’t recognize her. Not at first, anyway.
Her mouth had fallen open, grey eyes wide, a chaotic swirl of emotion. It felt like an eternity before she regained composure, glancing to McKenna before meeting Randin’s tentative gaze.
She nodded, slowly, her posture relaxing. “Wow, Randin…”
McKenna smiled as he watched Casey take the citizenship documents, before he turned to Randin. "I figured I would try to bring someone who cared about you, to see you on this momentous day."
McKenna seemed to keep his composure despite the flurry of emotions around him. McKenna was deceiving Randin when he told him they were going to the Imperial Palace. The truth was Randin's name was already cleared.
"Mr. Kaye, truth is there never was any visit to the Imperial Palace." He said, shifting his gaze. "Your name was cleared when Isambard Prince signed the Amnesty Decree for all those who were wrongfully accused under the old regime." McKenna said. "You would not have been allowed to set foot on this planet otherwise, not without a summary execution." McKenna added, smiling to Casey.
McKenna didn't know how drastically Casey had changed, as he had been with her every step of the way as she disembarked from that Tel'tak from Hadante. From the Guatrau's sponsorship to allow her to stay as a refugee, to his ultimate sponsorship as a citizen of the Empire.
"May we come in? I'm sure there's much to catch up on." He said, before he paused, reaching into his pocket.
McKenna seemed to keep his composure despite the flurry of emotions around him. McKenna was deceiving Randin when he told him they were going to the Imperial Palace. The truth was Randin's name was already cleared.
"Mr. Kaye, truth is there never was any visit to the Imperial Palace." He said, shifting his gaze. "Your name was cleared when Isambard Prince signed the Amnesty Decree for all those who were wrongfully accused under the old regime." McKenna said. "You would not have been allowed to set foot on this planet otherwise, not without a summary execution." McKenna added, smiling to Casey.
McKenna didn't know how drastically Casey had changed, as he had been with her every step of the way as she disembarked from that Tel'tak from Hadante. From the Guatrau's sponsorship to allow her to stay as a refugee, to his ultimate sponsorship as a citizen of the Empire.
"May we come in? I'm sure there's much to catch up on." He said, before he paused, reaching into his pocket.
Randin's eyes never left Casey's as McKenna spoke. Too many thoughts were swirling in his head for him to fixate on one - too many emotions and memories for him to keep grounded in what was being spoken. It had been a long time since he'd last seen Casey. When he'd left her last, she'd been broken; a mess of scars and bandages, the cruel handiwork of one of Randin's many enemies. Now...
He traced the curve of her brows with his eyes, met the cool grey of her irises with his own sparkling cobalt. There was the face he knew, the face he had woken up to morning after morning. It was his Casey.
Randin's first instinct was to rush forward, to embrace her, kiss her - tell her how much he'd missed her. She was here. She was alive, healthy and alive! Already he was moving towards her on the verge of laughter, already his hands found their place at her hips and the small of her back, holding her, letting her head rest against his chest...
Except he wasn't. The detective blinked, snapped out of his reverie to find that he had not moved in the slightest. He felt the chill in his chest, the ice-prickled chill fear, the burning frostbite of self-loathing. He blinked again, and for a moment, she was wrapped in bandages and hunched over in a wheelchair.
A soft growl escaped his throat. This emotional bullshit could wait; now simply wasn't the time. He pulled himself out of the haze of conflicting passions and memories, forcing himself to focus on the here and now - on the woman standing not five feet away. God, she was beautiful. Whatever fear and apprehension kept Randin from being honest with himself, nothing could have kept him from showing how happy he was to see her.
He smiled at her. Warm. Genuine.
"Your hair's longer."
He traced the curve of her brows with his eyes, met the cool grey of her irises with his own sparkling cobalt. There was the face he knew, the face he had woken up to morning after morning. It was his Casey.
Randin's first instinct was to rush forward, to embrace her, kiss her - tell her how much he'd missed her. She was here. She was alive, healthy and alive! Already he was moving towards her on the verge of laughter, already his hands found their place at her hips and the small of her back, holding her, letting her head rest against his chest...
Except he wasn't. The detective blinked, snapped out of his reverie to find that he had not moved in the slightest. He felt the chill in his chest, the ice-prickled chill fear, the burning frostbite of self-loathing. He blinked again, and for a moment, she was wrapped in bandages and hunched over in a wheelchair.
A soft growl escaped his throat. This emotional bullshit could wait; now simply wasn't the time. He pulled himself out of the haze of conflicting passions and memories, forcing himself to focus on the here and now - on the woman standing not five feet away. God, she was beautiful. Whatever fear and apprehension kept Randin from being honest with himself, nothing could have kept him from showing how happy he was to see her.
He smiled at her. Warm. Genuine.
"Your hair's longer."
Casey knew she was being rude to McKenna, but she couldn’t help staring at Randin, all but ignoring the pleasant news that was delivered. She vaguely acknowledged the pleasure in knowing that Randin wasn’t considered a fugitive in her new home, forcing herself to look away from Kaye to McKenna and offering him a quiet thanks.
“This means so much…” Her voice trailed off as she looked back to Randin’s eyes, reading his emotions like an open book. Hers were guarded carefully, though her expression was not unkind.
“You, on the other hand, haven’t changed at all.” She replied, her eyes lingering on his mouth for a moment before offering a small, melancholy smile. “Please, come on in. Mind the foyer. James had it in mind to build a tent-fort to rival Caprica City.” She turned, leading the way up the slope towards the front of the house, where the dark-haired boy stood awkwardly on the steps, waiting, it seemed, for Casey. When he saw the other two men following behind her, his dark eyes widened and he turned and fled into the house.
“We’re slowly but surely getting him over some of his more deeply rooted fears.” She remarked to McKenna, smiling fondly as the boy dove beneath a mountain of suspended blankets and couch cushions. The interior of the home was modestly furnished, the décor simple yet inviting. The foyer was filled with natural light, with the formal living room off to their immediate right and the dining room to the left. A staircase lead to the second level.
Her steps were silent on the wooden floors as she picked her way around a scattering of bed linens and moved to the kitchen. The dining table was polished but clear of any place settings, and she gestured for the men to have a seat. “I’ll grab us something from the kitchen.”, she told them before stepping back into the expansive room. When she was sure they couldn’t hear, she steadied herself against the counter as her breaths came fast, furious tears burning the corners of her eyes as she let hers
“This means so much…” Her voice trailed off as she looked back to Randin’s eyes, reading his emotions like an open book. Hers were guarded carefully, though her expression was not unkind.
“You, on the other hand, haven’t changed at all.” She replied, her eyes lingering on his mouth for a moment before offering a small, melancholy smile. “Please, come on in. Mind the foyer. James had it in mind to build a tent-fort to rival Caprica City.” She turned, leading the way up the slope towards the front of the house, where the dark-haired boy stood awkwardly on the steps, waiting, it seemed, for Casey. When he saw the other two men following behind her, his dark eyes widened and he turned and fled into the house.
“We’re slowly but surely getting him over some of his more deeply rooted fears.” She remarked to McKenna, smiling fondly as the boy dove beneath a mountain of suspended blankets and couch cushions. The interior of the home was modestly furnished, the décor simple yet inviting. The foyer was filled with natural light, with the formal living room off to their immediate right and the dining room to the left. A staircase lead to the second level.
Her steps were silent on the wooden floors as she picked her way around a scattering of bed linens and moved to the kitchen. The dining table was polished but clear of any place settings, and she gestured for the men to have a seat. “I’ll grab us something from the kitchen.”, she told them before stepping back into the expansive room. When she was sure they couldn’t hear, she steadied herself against the counter as her breaths came fast, furious tears burning the corners of her eyes as she let hers
***she let herself lose control for just an instant, to relieve the emotional tension that had been building inside of her. She could have hit him, shouted, given him the cold shoulder, done anything except stammer and be so goddamned happy to see him.
“He’ll leave you.” She whispered, closing her eyes and furiously rubbing at her damp cheeks. “It’ll be over. He’ll know to avoid you. It’s not like he voluntarily came here knowing…” She grit her teeth.
You know why he did it, Casey. It took you a long time to work through it, but you know. Just be glad for that. You can do this.
She blew out a sigh, pressing her palms to her eyes before grabbing a few mugs and setting them on a tray, getting sugar and cream and balancing the lot in one hand before taking the pot of freshly-made brew back out of the kitchen. If anything, her expression gave nothing away. She set the tray down between the pair, carefully avoiding touching Randin, and walked around to take her own seat.
“I’m glad the naturalization is finally over.” She told McKenna. “I can’t thank you enough, for everything.” Her eyes shifted to Randin, her smile a bit … wry. “Sorry he had to trick you into coming, Randin. If it makes you feel better, I had no part in it.” Her tone was neutral.
“He’ll leave you.” She whispered, closing her eyes and furiously rubbing at her damp cheeks. “It’ll be over. He’ll know to avoid you. It’s not like he voluntarily came here knowing…” She grit her teeth.
You know why he did it, Casey. It took you a long time to work through it, but you know. Just be glad for that. You can do this.
She blew out a sigh, pressing her palms to her eyes before grabbing a few mugs and setting them on a tray, getting sugar and cream and balancing the lot in one hand before taking the pot of freshly-made brew back out of the kitchen. If anything, her expression gave nothing away. She set the tray down between the pair, carefully avoiding touching Randin, and walked around to take her own seat.
“I’m glad the naturalization is finally over.” She told McKenna. “I can’t thank you enough, for everything.” Her eyes shifted to Randin, her smile a bit … wry. “Sorry he had to trick you into coming, Randin. If it makes you feel better, I had no part in it.” Her tone was neutral.
McKenna smiled as he stepped in through the main door with Randin beside him. He knew that it had been awhile since the two of them had been reunited.
McKenna smiled to the young boy before he followed Casey to the dining room, lowering himself into the chair as he adjusted the leather strap on his shoulder holster, a newer model disruptor pistol resting carefully within it's holster. A pistol that was concealed as the CPF Detective pulled his jacket over it.
He looked to Randin while Casey was in the other room, shifting in his chair. "The Guatrau sponsored her immigration, she's been making herself a good life here. She works for the Ministry of Public Affairs and Social Harmony." He said, glancing back to the pile of pillows and bed linens in the other room.
"Fosters a boy whose parents were caught making pattern in a bathtub, kid was riddled with lice and sores." McKenna admitted. "But she's been doing well, Aschen life has done wonders for her." He said, before he looked up to Casey as she came back into the room.
She had apologized to them, along with thanking him.
"Don't worry about it, Casey, I was just doing my job." McKenna said, modestly. "It was a fluke that Randin's whereabouts crossed my desk, he came up in a discussion about the old Emperor, oddly enough." He said, before he turned to the Detective, and then back to Casey.
"And I didn't trick him because I thought he would refuse to come, I did it because I wanted it to be a surprise, for both of you."
McKenna smiled to the young boy before he followed Casey to the dining room, lowering himself into the chair as he adjusted the leather strap on his shoulder holster, a newer model disruptor pistol resting carefully within it's holster. A pistol that was concealed as the CPF Detective pulled his jacket over it.
He looked to Randin while Casey was in the other room, shifting in his chair. "The Guatrau sponsored her immigration, she's been making herself a good life here. She works for the Ministry of Public Affairs and Social Harmony." He said, glancing back to the pile of pillows and bed linens in the other room.
"Fosters a boy whose parents were caught making pattern in a bathtub, kid was riddled with lice and sores." McKenna admitted. "But she's been doing well, Aschen life has done wonders for her." He said, before he looked up to Casey as she came back into the room.
She had apologized to them, along with thanking him.
"Don't worry about it, Casey, I was just doing my job." McKenna said, modestly. "It was a fluke that Randin's whereabouts crossed my desk, he came up in a discussion about the old Emperor, oddly enough." He said, before he turned to the Detective, and then back to Casey.
"And I didn't trick him because I thought he would refuse to come, I did it because I wanted it to be a surprise, for both of you."
"Yeah, inside..." the detective said, smoothing a hand through his hair as he ascended into the foyer. As Casey retreated into the kitchen, Randin took the opportunity to center himself. He focused on the details of her home, marveling at the close-fitting luxury of it all. It was perfect for her; modest and humble, replete with opened windows, fresh sunlight and the company of growing, green plants. He spent a moment admiring the gorgeous view of the coast before his attention shifted to the architecture of a particularly well-made pillow fort. If there were eyes peering out from the mess of blankets and cushions, they might have seen the slight but warm smile spread over Randin's jaw. Of course Casey was fostering a child, especially one from such a troubled background. It was her nature - to fix broken things, to heal.
Casey came back into the room, tray in hand. With the shock of seeing her abating, Randin concentrated on the details. He marked the circumference she gave him, the effort she took to eliminate the possibility of even accidental contact. It didn't bother him nearly as much as what she said after sitting down. “Sorry he had to trick you into coming, Randin." Did she honestly think that he didn't want to be here?
"And I didn't trick him because I thought he would refuse to come, I did it because I wanted it to be a surprise, for both of you."
"Well we're certainly surprised, Jimmy," Randin nodded at his friend, unsure if he should be smiling or scowling. While he knew that McKenna was only trying to help, Randin would have appreciated some warning before being walked into the home of his ex-girlfriend. He approached the tray and took up the pot, pouring himself a mug of steaming joe which he lifted to his lips without sugar or cream.
"He's right though, Case," Randin's eyes lingered on the cup before flitting suddenly up to hers. "I would have come, had I known." His eyes softened for a moment, brows coming undone. He nearly told her the whole truth right there - that he had missed the ever-living hell out of her, that he was just happy to be looking at her again - but held back. Too much at once, Randin. Put the brakes on and talk to her like a normal human being. That's what people did after not seeing each other for a while, right?
"The Empire, though," he grinned, taking another sip, "not gonna lie, last place I would'a looked for you." He gave Jim a double-take. "Ministry of... what, 'public harmony' or something? Sounded important, whatever it was." Back to Casey. A nod, a soft smile. "You're doing good for yourself. Damn good."
Casey came back into the room, tray in hand. With the shock of seeing her abating, Randin concentrated on the details. He marked the circumference she gave him, the effort she took to eliminate the possibility of even accidental contact. It didn't bother him nearly as much as what she said after sitting down. “Sorry he had to trick you into coming, Randin." Did she honestly think that he didn't want to be here?
"And I didn't trick him because I thought he would refuse to come, I did it because I wanted it to be a surprise, for both of you."
"Well we're certainly surprised, Jimmy," Randin nodded at his friend, unsure if he should be smiling or scowling. While he knew that McKenna was only trying to help, Randin would have appreciated some warning before being walked into the home of his ex-girlfriend. He approached the tray and took up the pot, pouring himself a mug of steaming joe which he lifted to his lips without sugar or cream.
"He's right though, Case," Randin's eyes lingered on the cup before flitting suddenly up to hers. "I would have come, had I known." His eyes softened for a moment, brows coming undone. He nearly told her the whole truth right there - that he had missed the ever-living hell out of her, that he was just happy to be looking at her again - but held back. Too much at once, Randin. Put the brakes on and talk to her like a normal human being. That's what people did after not seeing each other for a while, right?
"The Empire, though," he grinned, taking another sip, "not gonna lie, last place I would'a looked for you." He gave Jim a double-take. "Ministry of... what, 'public harmony' or something? Sounded important, whatever it was." Back to Casey. A nod, a soft smile. "You're doing good for yourself. Damn good."
She was watching Randin intently, reading his expressions, her hands cradling her own mug as she brought it to her lips for a sip. This she did more for the benefit of understanding what wasn’t being said, rather than what was.
He’s right, though, Case…I would have come, had I known..
Her expression became briefly clear, open for him to see the relief his words brought, like a soothing balm on a burn. She glanced away from him, towards the tent fort, where James’ little face peered from the lowest corner of his fortress. She winked at him, and he stuck his tongue out at her before disappearing again.
When Randin commented on the Empire, Casey had to smile, as if she was reliving the bewilderment all over again.
“Well, the Guatrau and I had dealings before everything came to a head on Terra. One of his representatives found me in the hospital not long after you left, and offered a dramatic but altogether viable solution.” There was no hurt in her tone, no ache to guard now. She’d worked past her own shock and was calm again.
“It was no longer possible for me to continue existing as a citizen of the TNG, live on Terra, and try to put my life back together. The Russians were still waiting in the wings. So the Guatrau offered to sponsor me while I lived and transitioned to citizenship here, within the Empire. McKenna eventually took over when it became clear that things were going to work out. There aren’t many people on Terra who know I’m here, and frankly, that was always the point.”
She laughed gently then. “The irony is that, no offense McKenna, but there was a time where I never would have thought I’d find peace, much less safety within the Empire. A lot has changed.”
He’s right, though, Case…I would have come, had I known..
Her expression became briefly clear, open for him to see the relief his words brought, like a soothing balm on a burn. She glanced away from him, towards the tent fort, where James’ little face peered from the lowest corner of his fortress. She winked at him, and he stuck his tongue out at her before disappearing again.
When Randin commented on the Empire, Casey had to smile, as if she was reliving the bewilderment all over again.
“Well, the Guatrau and I had dealings before everything came to a head on Terra. One of his representatives found me in the hospital not long after you left, and offered a dramatic but altogether viable solution.” There was no hurt in her tone, no ache to guard now. She’d worked past her own shock and was calm again.
“It was no longer possible for me to continue existing as a citizen of the TNG, live on Terra, and try to put my life back together. The Russians were still waiting in the wings. So the Guatrau offered to sponsor me while I lived and transitioned to citizenship here, within the Empire. McKenna eventually took over when it became clear that things were going to work out. There aren’t many people on Terra who know I’m here, and frankly, that was always the point.”
She laughed gently then. “The irony is that, no offense McKenna, but there was a time where I never would have thought I’d find peace, much less safety within the Empire. A lot has changed.”
"If you are on good terms with the Empire, and you're hiding from those who aren't. You'd be surprised how easy it is to hide here." McKenna said as he shifted slightly in his chair.
"All of the people out to get Casey were in Wing City, on Terra. There's nothing better than a couple thousand light years between them." He added, and then listened to the statement about a lot changing.
"Honestly, Casey. I didn't believe your citizenship was possible when we first started this, but the new Imperial Socialist regime has been much more open to moving towards a state of peaceful coexistence with other civilizations." McKenna said.
"The truth is you did find not only safety, but relative peace. At least; I would hope so." McKenna said. "Otherwise I'm not doing my job right."
"All of the people out to get Casey were in Wing City, on Terra. There's nothing better than a couple thousand light years between them." He added, and then listened to the statement about a lot changing.
"Honestly, Casey. I didn't believe your citizenship was possible when we first started this, but the new Imperial Socialist regime has been much more open to moving towards a state of peaceful coexistence with other civilizations." McKenna said.
"The truth is you did find not only safety, but relative peace. At least; I would hope so." McKenna said. "Otherwise I'm not doing my job right."
"Hm," Randin's fingers drummed on his mug and lay still. "The Guatrau, huh. He just... helped you out?" He looked between James and Casey. There was no masking the suspicion in his voice. "Didn't ask for anything - didn't make you cut any sort of deal?" Though the detective hadn't dealt extensively with Ha'la'tha, what few confrontations he had been through were far from peaceful. Ha'la'tha had, in fact, made an attempt on Casey's life once when she was staying at Wing City Hospital. To think that they would go out of their way to help her now seemed a bit unusual.
As Casey listed the myriad reasons that she couldn't go back to Terra, Randin couldn't help but think about all the dangers that weren't being mentioned. The last three times Casey had been in the hospital had been his fault; whether she was caught in the crossfire of a skirmish or deliberately attacked, the overwhelming majority of threats posed to Casey's life over the last few years had been tied to Randin one way or another. He wondered if Casey was leaving them out on purpose or if she legitimately didn't think they were issues.
Releasing a quiet sigh, the detective assumed the seat opposite Casey and next to McKenna, clapping his friend on the shoulder. "You've done a damn good job from what I can tell, Jimmy." He grinned. "Still one of the best cops I know." He looked to Casey now. "Hell both'a ya. Two best damn officers I've ever worked with. Don't know how either of you put up with me for so long." He chuckled, settling in his set ... eyes lingering on Casey's for a bit longer than normal with his last line. He'd meant it in more ways than one.
As Casey listed the myriad reasons that she couldn't go back to Terra, Randin couldn't help but think about all the dangers that weren't being mentioned. The last three times Casey had been in the hospital had been his fault; whether she was caught in the crossfire of a skirmish or deliberately attacked, the overwhelming majority of threats posed to Casey's life over the last few years had been tied to Randin one way or another. He wondered if Casey was leaving them out on purpose or if she legitimately didn't think they were issues.
Releasing a quiet sigh, the detective assumed the seat opposite Casey and next to McKenna, clapping his friend on the shoulder. "You've done a damn good job from what I can tell, Jimmy." He grinned. "Still one of the best cops I know." He looked to Casey now. "Hell both'a ya. Two best damn officers I've ever worked with. Don't know how either of you put up with me for so long." He chuckled, settling in his set ... eyes lingering on Casey's for a bit longer than normal with his last line. He'd meant it in more ways than one.
"I was skeptical, initially. But James has had a pretty comprehensive understanding of the circumstances." Casey replied. "I knew there was a risk, going into it, but it was better to recover elsewhere than continue going about my life on Terra like nothing was wrong." She was watching him, too, and she knew exactly what was going through his head. He was blaming himself, like he always did. It was the argument that had always cropped up in their rocky relationship.
She nodded, seemingly at nothing in particular. There was a lot that she wanted to say, but she didn't feel comfortable saying it in front of James, and being alone with Randin was dangerous for the both of them.
I knew it was your fault, indirectly or otherwise. But without my past, I couldn't be here, doing what I do now. You're forgiven, Randin. I wish you would just find the strength to forgive yourself.
She heard the sound of something falling to the floor in the other room, and abruptly stood. James could have toppled a couple books from the bookcase.
"Excuse me a moment." she murmured, her look shot in Randin's direction apologetic, even understanding. She'd never been one to hold on to anger, after all.
She nodded, seemingly at nothing in particular. There was a lot that she wanted to say, but she didn't feel comfortable saying it in front of James, and being alone with Randin was dangerous for the both of them.
I knew it was your fault, indirectly or otherwise. But without my past, I couldn't be here, doing what I do now. You're forgiven, Randin. I wish you would just find the strength to forgive yourself.
She heard the sound of something falling to the floor in the other room, and abruptly stood. James could have toppled a couple books from the bookcase.
"Excuse me a moment." she murmured, her look shot in Randin's direction apologetic, even understanding. She'd never been one to hold on to anger, after all.
mcKenna perked up at the sound of crashing books and furniture in the next room. Slowly he moved to get up, but had seen that Casey was beating him to the punch.
"That kid of yours, energetic for someone his age." The detective said, as he turned towards Randin. "From what I understand it, the Guatrau saw it as a means to an end. He happened to hate the russians more than he hated Casey. I speculate he went through these lengths simply to keep her from the Russians. In the end it benefited Casey." He said, watching as she excused herself to check on the child.
After a brief pause, James' communicator chimed, after he checked it he looked to Casey, and Randin.
"Excuse me." He said as he stood up.
"I need to take this call." He said, moving into the foyer and the large doors that led to the front yard.
"..McKenna here, what's up..." He said, trailing off as he answered the phone.
"That kid of yours, energetic for someone his age." The detective said, as he turned towards Randin. "From what I understand it, the Guatrau saw it as a means to an end. He happened to hate the russians more than he hated Casey. I speculate he went through these lengths simply to keep her from the Russians. In the end it benefited Casey." He said, watching as she excused herself to check on the child.
After a brief pause, James' communicator chimed, after he checked it he looked to Casey, and Randin.
"Excuse me." He said as he stood up.
"I need to take this call." He said, moving into the foyer and the large doors that led to the front yard.
"..McKenna here, what's up..." He said, trailing off as he answered the phone.
Randin sipped his coffee, sitting quietly for a moment as James went to take a call and Casey went into the other room. After a moment, he set down his drink and went after Delancy. It was probably nothing ... but with Casey, Randin felt compelled to at least give it a look.
He entered the next room, looking for Casey and the source of the noise.
"Everything okay in here?"
He entered the next room, looking for Casey and the source of the noise.
"Everything okay in here?"
Casey was sitting quietly, cross-legged with her hand outstretched. The boy knelt opposite her, glaring defiantly with his hand clutched against his chest. She didn't acknowledge Randin by looking his way, though when she spoke, it seemed to be directed at him.
"We're okay, Randin. More than okay, actually." She was calmly watching the child, who seemed to be debating the wisdom of showing Casey his hand.
Finally, slowly, he reached it out for her to inspect. She leaned close, her brow furrowed, but made no effort to touch him. Then, remarkably, the boy stepped forward and moved to sit in her lap, his knees curling up to his chest. With a smile, Casey wrapped her arms around him.
She looked back to Randin, her expression gentle. "Trust is such a hard thing to earn. These children come to me broken, afraid, and lost. I find that, in time, with a lot of patience, eventually they feel safe enough to make the first move. I'd never push them beyond what they were comfortable with." Her expression became more meaningful, as if there was more than one meaning.
"We're okay, Randin. More than okay, actually." She was calmly watching the child, who seemed to be debating the wisdom of showing Casey his hand.
Finally, slowly, he reached it out for her to inspect. She leaned close, her brow furrowed, but made no effort to touch him. Then, remarkably, the boy stepped forward and moved to sit in her lap, his knees curling up to his chest. With a smile, Casey wrapped her arms around him.
She looked back to Randin, her expression gentle. "Trust is such a hard thing to earn. These children come to me broken, afraid, and lost. I find that, in time, with a lot of patience, eventually they feel safe enough to make the first move. I'd never push them beyond what they were comfortable with." Her expression became more meaningful, as if there was more than one meaning.
Randin watched the exchange quietly, face lighting up with a smile as the boy relinquished his hesitation and curled into Casey's lap. He marveled at how quickly the boy took to her, how safe and warm he seemed in her arms. What a mother she would have made ... hell, what a mother she already was.
The tender smile dissipated at Casey's words. Randin thumbed along his jaw, nodding thoughtfully. The double meaning was clear enough.
"Trust is hard," Randin agreed, brows knit, "for both parties." He walked into the space opposite Casey and sat on the floor, cross-legged, facing her. His eyes were on the floor, fingers picking at the carpet. "It comes with responsibility. Once you've earned it, you've gotta' keep it." His gaze flitted up to the boy, nestled in Casey's arms. "Gotta' do right by those you love. Nurture them. Protect them." He looked at Casey now. His eyes were soft and searching, the sunlight filtering through the window flecking his cobalt irises with shards of ember. "Gotta' hope they'll trust you enough to do the right thing. Even when it's hard." A deep, weary breath.
"Even when it means letting go."
The tender smile dissipated at Casey's words. Randin thumbed along his jaw, nodding thoughtfully. The double meaning was clear enough.
"Trust is hard," Randin agreed, brows knit, "for both parties." He walked into the space opposite Casey and sat on the floor, cross-legged, facing her. His eyes were on the floor, fingers picking at the carpet. "It comes with responsibility. Once you've earned it, you've gotta' keep it." His gaze flitted up to the boy, nestled in Casey's arms. "Gotta' do right by those you love. Nurture them. Protect them." He looked at Casey now. His eyes were soft and searching, the sunlight filtering through the window flecking his cobalt irises with shards of ember. "Gotta' hope they'll trust you enough to do the right thing. Even when it's hard." A deep, weary breath.
"Even when it means letting go."
She rested her chin on top of the boy's head, gazing intently at the man she once loved more than her own life. Maybe she still did. Then again...
"They do understand, eventually, that everything is done out of love, or concern for well being and safety. Sometimes it takes a lot of pain and anger and exhaustion, but I think it comes around in time." She sighed.
"Then, those realizations blissfully come hand in hand with forgiveness." She reached with one hand, gently, very gently touching her fingertips to the back of his rough hands.
"I've thought about this moment for a long time, Randin. At first, all I could think about was what I thought I had lost. The truth was..." Her throat constricted, and she made no effort to hide it. "...I'd gained so much. I was just blind to it, blinded by my disbelief that things could go on. That I'd survive beyond my circumstances."
The look in her eyes was unfathomable, filled with a deep sense of understanding. "I did, Randin. I'm not the same woman you worked so hard to protect."
"They do understand, eventually, that everything is done out of love, or concern for well being and safety. Sometimes it takes a lot of pain and anger and exhaustion, but I think it comes around in time." She sighed.
"Then, those realizations blissfully come hand in hand with forgiveness." She reached with one hand, gently, very gently touching her fingertips to the back of his rough hands.
"I've thought about this moment for a long time, Randin. At first, all I could think about was what I thought I had lost. The truth was..." Her throat constricted, and she made no effort to hide it. "...I'd gained so much. I was just blind to it, blinded by my disbelief that things could go on. That I'd survive beyond my circumstances."
The look in her eyes was unfathomable, filled with a deep sense of understanding. "I did, Randin. I'm not the same woman you worked so hard to protect."