Editing Warhawk

{{separate continuity|universe=TOS|cont=Richard Hatch continuation|lcont=:Category:Books}}
{{Book Data
| image = Warhawk.jpg
| title= Warhawk
| series= Richard Hatch
| bookno= 2
| episode=
| author=[[Richard Hatch]]<br>[[Christopher Golden]]
| published= September 1, 1998
| isbn=0671011901
| prev= [[Armageddon]]
| next= [[Resurrection (book)|Resurrection]]
}}

'''''Warhawk''''' is the second novel in the [[Richard Hatch continuation]] series, published in September 1998. Written by [[Richard Hatch]] and [[Christopher Golden]], the novel continues the fleet's journey following the events of ''[[Armageddon]]'', as [[Apollo (TOS-RH)|Commander Apollo]] leads humanity in search of ancient colonies while facing new alien threats and continuing Cylon pursuit.

==Summary==

Following their acquisition of an ancient holographic map of the [[Cyranus (TOS)|Cyranus]] nebula in their last conflict with the [[Cylons (TOS)|Cylons]], the [[The Fleet (TOS-RH)|Colonial fleet]] sets course for the nearest planet identified on the map—a world in the [[Xerik system]].<ref name="WH20">{{cite book/RH|2|20}}</ref> This discovery offers hope for finding one of the ancient colonies established by emigrants from [[Kobol (TOS)|Kobol]] millennia ago.

However, their arrival in the Xerik system brings them into contact with two alien civilizations: the peaceful, telepathic [[Sky]], and the savage, militant [[Chitain]]. Commander [[Cain (TOS-RH)|Cain]], who had previously discovered the habitable planet [[Poseidon (TOS-RH)|Poseidon]] and established a colony there, has been negotiating with the Chitain for an alliance.<ref name="WH21">{{cite book/RH|2|21}}</ref>

As Apollo leads a diplomatic mission to the Chitain homeworld of Xerik-7, he discovers a horrifying truth: the [[Cylons (TOS)|Cylons]] have established a secret base on the planet and are working in alliance with the Chitain.<ref name="WH247">{{cite book/RH|2|247}}</ref> The situation becomes dire when Apollo also uncovers that Poseidon's environment causes genetic breakdown in humans over generations, rendering the planet uninhabitable long-term.<ref name="WH248">{{cite book/RH|2|248}}</ref>

A massive space battle erupts as the Chitain attack the Colonial fleet with Cylon support, while the Sky arrive to aid humanity. The fleet must evacuate Poseidon's colonists while fighting for survival against overwhelming odds.<ref name="WH266">{{cite book/RH|2|266-267}}</ref> Apollo ultimately defeats the Chitain mother ship, but three [[Cylon basestar (TOS)|Cylon base stars]] arrive in the system just as the fleet prepares to escape using [[Quantum Shift-Effect generator|QSE cloaking technology]].<ref name="WH267">{{cite book/RH|2|267}}</ref>

==Plot==

===Prologue===

The novel opens with [[Valor]], a warrior of the telepathic [[Sky]] race, enjoying the tranquility of space near the third moon of [[Xerik]]-12.<ref name="WH1">{{cite book/RH|2|1}}</ref> The Sky are a peaceful, telepathic species whose crescent-shaped bodies allow them to fly through space using their mental powers, enhanced by armor-ships that conform to their unique physiology.<ref name="WH1" />

Valor's serenity is shattered when he senses the psychic death screams of his fellow Sky at their embassy on the moon.<ref name="WH1" /> Racing to investigate, he discovers [[Chitain]] warships attacking the embassy in an unprovoked assault.<ref name="WH2">{{cite book/RH|2|2-3}}</ref> The Chitain, a savage warrior race native to [[Xerik]]-7, had maintained a peaceful relationship with the Sky—making this betrayal all the more shocking.<ref name="WH3">{{cite book/RH|2|3}}</ref>

Despite his valiant efforts to defend the embassy, Valor is overwhelmed by superior Chitain numbers. Nearly one hundred Chitain warships attack, supported by troop carriers.<ref name="WH6">{{cite book/RH|2|6}}</ref> After sustaining severe damage to his armor and witnessing the destruction of all Sky at the embassy, Valor barely escapes with his life.<ref name="WH48">{{cite book/RH|2|48}}</ref> He begins the long journey home to the DarAvqq system to warn his people of the Chitain treachery and prepare for war.<ref name="WH48" />

===Chapter One===

Commander [[Apollo (TOS-RH)|Apollo]] faces a brutal death match against [[Gar'Tokk]], leader of the [[Borellian Nomen]], aboard the entertainment ship ''[[Ligeia]]''.<ref name="WH7">{{cite book/RH|2|7}}</ref> His son [[Troy (TOS-RH)|Troy]] and best friend Captain [[Starbuck (TOS-RH)|Starbuck]] object strenuously to this arrangement, questioning Apollo's sanity.<ref name="WH7-8">{{cite book/RH|2|7-8}}</ref>

During the brutal hand-to-hand combat, Gar'Tokk crushes Apollo, breaking several of his ribs.<ref name="WH7" /> However, the match culminates not in death but in mutual respect. Apollo's willingness to face the Noman warrior on equal terms—risking death without using his telepathic abilities—earns Gar'Tokk's loyalty.<ref name="WH19">{{cite book/RH|2|19}}</ref> The Borellian pledges himself as Apollo's bodyguard, a development that shocks the crew when Gar'Tokk appears on ''[[Galactica (TOS-RH)|Galactica]]''{{'|s}} bridge.<ref name="WH20">{{cite book/RH|2|20}}</ref>

The fleet's long-range scanners detect their objective in the Xerik system.<ref name="WH20" /> Using coordinates from the ancient holographic map they acquired in their last battle with the Cylons, combined with the location of [[Kobol (TOS)|Kobol]] that [[Adama (TOS)|Adama]] had discovered years earlier, they have successfully plotted the locations of other planets colonized by Kobollian emigrants.<ref name="WH20" />

===Chapter Two===

President [[Tigh (TOS-RH)|Tigh]] and Major [[Sheba (TOS-RH)|Sheba]] discuss the fleet's situation over a meal aboard the ''[[Tantalus]]'', a popular restaurant ship.<ref name="WH22">{{cite book/RH|2|22}}</ref> Tigh remains troubled by the presence of [[Baltar (TOS-RH)|Baltar]], the Great Traitor, aboard the fleet—though Baltar now claims to have broken free from [[Count Iblis]]' influence.<ref name="WH22" />

Commander [[Cain (TOS-RH)|Cain]] has been negotiating with the [[Chitain]], the dominant intelligent species in the Xerik system. The Chitain are a formidable warrior race: nearly two meters tall with naturally armored torsos covered in dark gray-green scales, four appendages (including deadly scimitar-like digits), and serpentine lower bodies ending in poisonous stingers.<ref name="WH206">{{cite book/RH|2|206}}</ref>

Before departing on a birthday celebration for Troy, Starbuck and Sheba receive orders for a reconnaissance patrol, making them late to the party.<ref name="WH40">{{cite book/RH|2|40}}</ref> The celebration aboard the Aft Officers' Dining and Observation Chamber ([[ODOC]]) brings together Troy, [[Dalton (TOS-RH)|Lieutenant Dalton]], Sheba, Starbuck, [[Boomer (TOS-RH)|Major Boomer]], [[Jolly (TOS-RH)|Jolly]], and Boomer's wife [[Phaedra]].<ref name="WH40-41">{{cite book/RH|2|40-41}}</ref>

===Chapter Three===

[[Cassiopeia (TOS-RH)|Cassiopeia]], the fleet's chief medical technician, visits the young scientist [[Plutarch]] aboard the ''[[Virgon Star]]'' to discuss progress on deciphering the Cylon data from the infosphere captured in ''Armageddon''.<ref name="WH49">{{cite book/RH|2|49}}</ref> Cassie harbors feelings for the brilliant but socially awkward scientist, though she recognizes it as infatuation given that she still loves Starbuck—who is now involved with Colonel [[Athena (TOS-RH)|Athena]].<ref name="WH49" />

Plutarch has a surprise: he has successfully constructed a functional [[Cylon Centurion]] drone based entirely on the specifications from the Cylon infosphere.<ref name="WH50">{{cite book/RH|2|50-51}}</ref> When Cassiopeia first sees the Centurion, she panics, believing Plutarch to be a traitor. However, the scientist quickly demonstrates that the drone is under complete human control and represents a significant intelligence breakthrough.<ref name="WH51">{{cite book/RH|2|51}}</ref>

Valor, severely wounded and without functional armor, begins his long journey home to the DarAvqq system using only his telepathic abilities to propel himself through space.<ref name="WH48">{{cite book/RH|2|48}}</ref> Despite his pain and exhaustion, he maintains focus on two concepts: the cold of space and the need for flight.<ref name="WH136">{{cite book/RH|2|136}}</ref>

===Chapter Four===

In a surprising development, Cain and Cassiopeia seek out Baltar for intelligence about the Cylons.<ref name="WH163">{{cite book/RH|2|163}}</ref> The Great Traitor provides valuable information about Cylon military capabilities and the relationship between the Cylons and [[Count Iblis]].<ref name="WH163" />

Baltar explains the origins of the Cylon race: millennia ago, Count Iblis existed as a human whose lineage split from the House of Kobol. Shunned and exiled, Iblis discovered the planet [[Cylon]], home to an undeveloped reptilian race. Through genetic splicing and cybernetic technology, Iblis created the Cylon race with two primary goals: universal conquest and the extermination of humanity.<ref name="WH163" />

The traitor also provides critical tactical intelligence. After their victory over the Colonies, the Cylons' genetic breeding program finally caught up with demand for [[Centurion]]s. Production of cloned drones dramatically slowed or ceased entirely.<ref name="WH165">{{cite book/RH|2|165}}</ref> This means most Cylons the fleet will face are now actual flesh and blood beneath their armor and circuitry.<ref name="WH165" />

When Cain asks if Centurions can feel pain, Baltar confirms they can.<ref name="WH165" /> Cain's cruel smile at this revelation suggests he plans to use this knowledge in future conflicts.<ref name="WH165" />

===Chapter Five===

Valor finally reaches the DarAvqq system, his home planet hanging in orbit around its sun.<ref name="WH136">{{cite book/RH|2|136}}</ref> He sends out a telepathic warning to all Sky: "Betrayal! We have been betrayed! The Chitain must know our vengeance!"<ref name="WH136" />

Apollo assembles a diplomatic team to visit the Chitain homeworld. Accompanying him are Starbuck, Major Boomer, and Gar'Tokk.<ref name="WH137">{{cite book/RH|2|137}}</ref> They travel aboard the ''[[Starlight]]'', a battle cruiser from Cain's fleet, reasoning that using one of Cain's ships rather than ''Galactica''{{'|s}} assets will seem less threatening while still providing adequate firepower.<ref name="WH137" />

Before departing, Athena meets with Cassiopeia at the ODOC for a rare moment of relaxation.<ref name="WH138">{{cite book/RH|2|138}}</ref> Cassie convinces the exhausted colonel that she needs rest—Athena has been on duty for nearly two full cycles, managing the fleet while Apollo handles the diplomatic mission.<ref name="WH138" />

===Chapter Six===

Troy and Dalton share an intimate moment where Dalton confesses her long-held love for Troy, recalling a specific memory from when she was fifteen years old during Viper Flight Simulator training.<ref name="WH99">{{cite book/RH|2|99}}</ref> Troy finally acknowledges his own feelings for her, and they kiss.<ref name="WH99" />

Meanwhile, Baltar continues his slow rehabilitation with help from [[Siress Kiera]], a member of the [[Council of Twelve]] who is sympathetic to him.<ref name="WH89">{{cite book/RH|2|89}}</ref> Baltar plans patiently for his eventual restoration to power, knowing it may take another twenty years but remaining confident in his ultimate success.<ref name="WH90">{{cite book/RH|2|90}}</ref>

===Chapter Seven===

Apollo tours the Poseidon colony with Cain, Cassiopeia, and Tigh.<ref name="WH100">{{cite book/RH|2|100}}</ref> Cain proudly shows them the industrialized facilities at the heart of the settlement, including foundries, factories, smelters, and warehouses arranged in a ringed configuration.<ref name="WH100" />

The group visits a massive excavation where Poseidon colonists mine valuable minerals. Apollo is impressed by what Cain has accomplished in ten years, though he remains cautious about the Chitain alliance.<ref name="WH100" />

===Chapter Eight===

In his austere quarters on Poseidon, Apollo meditates and performs mental exercises to develop his telepathic abilities.<ref name="WH122">{{cite book/RH|2|122}}</ref> Gar'Tokk stands guard in the corridor outside, unable to fit in the cramped room.<ref name="WH122" />

Scanners aboard ''Galactica'' detect forty armed spacecraft approaching the fleet.<ref name="WH122">{{cite book/RH|2|122}}</ref> Athena commands the bridge in Apollo's absence, ordering shields raised and mobilizing Red Squadron under Captain Hecate.<ref name="WH122" /> The ships are identified as Chitain vessels, not Cylons, but their hostile intent is clear.<ref name="WH122" />

===Chapter Nine===

Apollo and his team depart for the diplomatic mission to Xerik-7 aboard the ''Starlight''.<ref name="WH137">{{cite book/RH|2|137}}</ref> Starbuck familiarizes himself with the battle cruiser's controls while Boomer and Apollo discuss strategy.<ref name="WH137" />

The Chitain prove difficult hosts. When Cain attempts to communicate with Apollo's delegation, [[Tcharken]], a Chitain diplomat, informs him that the visitors are resting and cannot be disturbed according to Chitain custom.<ref name="WH179">{{cite book/RH|2|179}}</ref> Athena recognizes this as highly suspicious—the Cain she knows would never have accepted such an excuse without protest.<ref name="WH179" />

===Chapter Ten===

Night falls on the Chitain homeworld. Apollo shivers in the quarters provided by their hosts, despite adequate heating.<ref name="WH155">{{cite book/RH|2|155}}</ref> His unease is justified when the diplomatic mission discovers they are essentially prisoners.

Meanwhile, Troy and Dalton are introduced to a new type of spacecraft: the [[Duet (TOS-RH)|Duet]], a configuration connecting two Vipers with a weapons module.<ref name="WH154">{{cite book/RH|2|154-155}}</ref> Major Belarius initially doubts Dalton's abilities due to her youth, but Captain Hecate defends her, noting that Dalton is the youngest pilot ever to graduate the Academy and a better pilot than Hecate herself.<ref name="WH154" />

===Chapter Eleven===

Apollo's diplomatic mission takes a dark turn when they discover a [[Cylons (TOS)|Cylon]] base hidden on Xerik-7.<ref name="WH225">{{cite book/RH|2|225-226}}</ref> The Cylons are working in direct alliance with the Chitain, providing them with advanced technology and military support.

Apollo attempts to warn the fleet through his developing telepathic abilities, sending urgent mental messages to Athena about the Cylon presence.<ref name="WH225" /> His warning is received—but not by Athena. Someone else with telepathic sensitivity picks up his message, though Apollo cannot clearly identify who.<ref name="WH226">{{cite book/RH|2|226}}</ref>

Before he can investigate further, Sheba sounds the alarm: Cylon Centurions are attacking the ''Starlight''.<ref name="WH226" /> The situation deteriorates rapidly as the Cylons advance despite laser fire from Sheba and Starbuck.<ref name="WH226" />

===Chapter Twelve===

While Apollo fights for survival on Xerik-7, the truth about Poseidon emerges. The planet's environment causes genetic breakdown in human populations over multiple generations.<ref name="WH248">{{cite book/RH|2|248}}</ref> Apollo's team has discovered genetically mutated descendants of Poseidon's previous human colonization—slaves used by the Chitain.<ref name="WH248" />

Apollo transmits this critical information to ''Galactica'', ordering an immediate evacuation of all Poseidon colonists—by force if necessary.<ref name="WH248">{{cite book/RH|2|248-249}}</ref> He also warns that Chitain reinforcements are en route, including at least one dreadnought.<ref name="WH248" />

Cain reacts with fury to Apollo's commands, asserting his authority as Poseidon's president.<ref name="WH248-249">{{cite book/RH|2|248-249}}</ref> Athena confronts the legendary commander directly, explaining that Poseidon is poisoned and that the Cylons' presence makes the entire situation untenable.<ref name="WH249">{{cite book/RH|2|249}}</ref> When Cain raises his hand to strike Athena, she strikes first.<ref name="WH250">{{cite book/RH|2|250}}</ref> Apollo gives Athena full authority to arrest Cain if he interferes with the evacuation.<ref name="WH249" />

===Chapter Thirteen===

A massive space battle erupts as Chitain forces attack the Colonial fleet.<ref name="WH228">{{cite book/RH|2|228}}</ref> The aliens' warships prove formidable with their bio-mechanoid tendrils and deadly tail stingers.<ref name="WH2-3">{{cite book/RH|2|2-3}}</ref>

The battle initially goes poorly for the Colonials. The Chitain demonstrate superior tactics, having apparently been baiting the fleet—sacrificing their own pilots to study human fighting techniques before unleashing their full ferocity.<ref name="WH228">{{cite book/RH|2|228}}</ref> When nearly twenty additional Chitain warcraft join the battle, the situation appears hopeless.<ref name="WH228" />

Troy and Dalton fly their Duet configuration, dividing responsibilities—Troy pilots while Dalton focuses entirely on weapons systems.<ref name="WH233">{{cite book/RH|2|233}}</ref> The arrangement works brilliantly, with Dalton using the Duet's rear-mounted turbolasers to destroy a Chitain craft that had gotten on their tail.<ref name="WH234">{{cite book/RH|2|234}}</ref>

===Chapter Fourteen===

Just as the [[Sky]] arrive in force, led by Valor.<ref name="WH227-228">{{cite book/RH|2|227-228}}</ref> More than one hundred and fifty Sky warriors engage the Chitain with devastating effectiveness. The Sky's crescent-shaped armor-ships, controlled by thought, possess maneuverability far exceeding even the swift Chitain craft.<ref name="WH228" />

Athena senses the Sky's presence before seeing them, feeling their mental touch and immediately recognizing them as allies based on Apollo's earlier account of meeting Valor.<ref name="WH228" /> Their arrival transforms a nearly hopeless battle into a winnable conflict.<ref name="WH228" />

Valor and his warriors attack with fury, destroying six Chitain craft in their initial strike.<ref name="WH227" /> Despite taking casualties—the Sky forces drop from 147 to 145 within moments—they press the attack relentlessly.<ref name="WH229">{{cite book/RH|2|229}}</ref>

Jolly, thrust into tactical command after Captain Hecate's death, coordinates the fleet's fighters despite the overwhelming nature of the casualties.<ref name="WH230-231">{{cite book/RH|2|230-231}}</ref> Starbuck, completely absorbed in combat, transforms into a pure Warrior, executing brilliant maneuvers including tricking two Chitain craft into destroying each other.<ref name="WH258">{{cite book/RH|2|258}}</ref>

===Chapter Fifteen===

Apollo leads his squadron on a daring assault against the Chitain mother ship—a massive dreadnought bristling with weapons.<ref name="WH260">{{cite book/RH|2|260}}</ref> His wingmates include Academy cadets [[Cato (TOS-RH)|Cato]] and [[Freyja]], who despite never having launched a Viper before this battle, perform admirably under fire.<ref name="WH260">{{cite book/RH|2|260}}</ref>

Apollo orders his pilots to fly close to the enemy vessel, making them difficult targets—like "skreeters on the back of a bova."<ref name="WH260">{{cite book/RH|2|260}}</ref> He gives explicit orders: stay alive, that is their primary function. The fleet needs pilots, not heroes.<ref name="WH260" />

A Chitain craft gets Apollo in its sights, ready to fire, but Starbuck destroys it just in time.<ref name="WH264">{{cite book/RH|2|264}}</ref> Apollo's squadron successfully baits the Chitain dreadnought's weapons systems, allowing the Colonial battlestars and cruisers to move in and fire upon the massive vessel with devastating effect.<ref name="WH263-264">{{cite book/RH|2|263-264}}</ref>

===Chapter Sixteen===

The aftermath of battle brings both relief and grief. In ''Galactica''{{'|s}} [[medlab]], Cassiopeia treats the wounded. Gar'Tokk has sustained grievous injuries but will survive.<ref name="WH268">{{cite book/RH|2|268}}</ref> Starbuck is in critical condition with severe burns after his Viper was badly damaged.<ref name="WH269">{{cite book/RH|2|269}}</ref> Though he'll "look like burned toast" for a while, Cassie reassures Apollo that Starbuck will recover.<ref name="WH269">{{cite book/RH|2|269}}</ref>

Cain and Sheba are reunited in an emotional scene at the launch bay.<ref name="WH257-258">{{cite book/RH|2|257-258}}</ref> The legendary commander, who had believed his daughter dead after her capture on Xerik-7, holds her as Sheba tells him that from now on, the fleet stands or falls together.<ref name="WH258">{{cite book/RH|2|258}}</ref>

As the battle concludes, Athena faces an even more dire threat. Colonial scanners detect at least three Cylon [[basestar (TOS)|base stars]] approaching the Xerik system, with arrival imminent—perhaps only a centon away.<ref name="WH266">{{cite book/RH|2|266-267}}</ref>

Athena announces the evacuation order to the entire fleet via unicomm.<ref name="WH266">{{cite book/RH|2|266}}</ref> Most of Poseidon's colonists have been successfully evacuated, though some have chosen to remain despite warnings.<ref name="WH266" />

The critical problem: not every ship can be equipped with [[Quantum Shift-Effect generator]] (QSE) technology in time. The ''[[Pegasus (TOS-RH)|Pegasus]]'', the ''[[Daedelus (TOS-RH)|Daedelus]]'', and three Poseidon-built battle-cruisers cannot be outfitted or slaved to QSE-equipped vessels before the Cylons arrive.<ref name="WH266-267">{{cite book/RH|2|266-267}}</ref>

Cain offers to sacrifice himself and his ships, but Athena refuses.<ref name="WH267">{{cite book/RH|2|267}}</ref> She tells him that sometimes prudence is more valuable than courage, and if the QSE cloaking works for the whole fleet, they'll escape with time to spare.<ref name="WH267" /> Plutarch and Omega successfully integrate Cain's ships into the QSE system, allowing the entire fleet to phase out of normal space-time and escape undetected.<ref name="WH267" />

===Epilogue===

In his private sanctuary aboard ''Galactica'', Apollo reflects on the burden of leadership.<ref name="WH271-272">{{cite book/RH|2|271-272}}</ref> His father [[Adama (TOS)|Adama]] had carried the weight of humanity's survival for years. Apollo commits to doing the same—finding a home for his people and leading them to glory.<ref name="WH272">{{cite book/RH|2|272}}</ref>

Apollo's thoughts turn to anger and determination. The [[Lords of Kobol]] gave their descendants much, but then abandoned them. Apollo has concluded that the Lords are the scientists of the galaxy—they set civilizations in motion and then settled back to observe, treating humanity as an experiment.<ref name="WH272">{{cite book/RH|2|272}}</ref> Apollo vows that one day he will find the [[Light Ship]]s again and confront the Lords of Kobol, demanding an explanation and telling them that humanity is not an experiment.<ref name="WH272" />

In his quarters, [[Baltar (TOS-RH)|Baltar]] receives a visit from [[Count Iblis]].<ref name="WH273">{{cite book/RH|2|273}}</ref> When Iblis demands to know the fleet's location, Baltar admits he cannot provide this information because he cannot leave his quarters. The dark entity declares Baltar worthless until he learns more and severs the connection.<ref name="WH273">{{cite book/RH|2|273}}</ref>

The novel concludes with a shocking revelation in the Xerik system. Above the Chitain homeworld, three Cylon base stars stand motionless in space.<ref name="WH273">{{cite book/RH|2|273}}</ref> Within the largest base star, the Cylon [[Cogitator]] [[Lucifer (TOS-RH)|Lucifer]] stands in the [[Imperious Leader]]'s chamber, listening in astonishment to a conversation in [[Kobollian]].<ref name="WH273">{{cite book/RH|2|273}}</ref> The Imperious Leader has been speaking to a pool of darkness—a swirling portal—that hovers above the chamber floor.<ref name="WH273" />

Most shocking of all is the name by which the darkness addresses the Cylon leader: it calls him [[Iblis]].<ref name="WH273">{{cite book/RH|2|273}}</ref> The revelation suggests that Count Iblis and the current Imperious Leader are one and the same, connected across time and space by dark forces beyond mortal comprehension.<ref name="WH273" />

==Characters==

===Returning Characters===

*[[Apollo (TOS-RH)|Commander Apollo]] – Commander of ''[[Galactica (TOS-RH)|Galactica]]'' and the [[The Fleet (TOS-RH)|Colonial fleet]], developing his telepathic abilities
*[[Athena (TOS-RH)|Colonel Athena]] – Apollo's sister, executive officer of ''Galactica'' and acting fleet commander during Apollo's mission
*[[Starbuck (TOS-RH)|Captain Starbuck]] – Apollo's best friend and the fleet's finest pilot
*[[Troy (TOS-RH)|Lieutenant Troy]] – Apollo's adopted son, a skilled warrior pilot
*[[Cain (TOS-RH)|Commander Cain]] – Legendary warrior and president of the Poseidon colony, commander of ''[[Pegasus (TOS-RH)|Pegasus]]''
*[[Sheba (TOS-RH)|Major Sheba]] – Cain's daughter, senior warrior and member of the [[Quorum (TOS-RH)|Council of Twelve]]
*[[Boomer (TOS-RH)|Major Boomer]] – Senior warrior and squadron leader
*[[Tigh (TOS-RH)|President Tigh]] – Leader of the [[Council of Twelve]] and the fleet's civilian government
*[[Cassiopeia (TOS-RH)|Cassiopeia]] – Chief medical technician of the fleet
*[[Baltar (TOS-RH)|Baltar]] – The Great Traitor, imprisoned but slowly working to rehabilitate his reputation
*[[Omega (TOS-RH)|Omega]] – Senior officer aboard ''Galactica''
*[[Jolly (TOS-RH)|Captain Jolly]] – Veteran warrior pilot

===New and Expanded Characters===

*[[Gar'Tokk]] – Leader of the [[Borellian Nomen]], becomes Apollo's bodyguard after their death match
*[[Plutarch]] – Young scientific genius who deciphers Cylon technology and builds the fleet's first controlled Centurion drone
*[[Dalton (TOS-RH)|Lieutenant Dalton]] – Young warrior pilot, Troy's close friend and co-pilot in their [[Duet (TOS-RH)|Duet]] configuration
*[[Phaedra]] – Boomer's wife
*[[Valor]] – Warrior of the telepathic [[Sky]] race, first encountered by Apollo in ''Armageddon''
*[[Lord Schikik]] – Chieftain of the [[Chitain]] civilization
*[[Tcharken]] – Chitain diplomat and liaison to the Colonial fleet
*[[Cato (TOS-RH)|Cato]] – Academy cadet who flies his first combat mission during the battle
*[[Freyja]] – Academy cadet who flies her first combat mission during the battle
*[[Siress Kiera]] – Member of the [[Council of Twelve]], secretly sympathetic to Baltar
*[[Lucifer (TOS-RH)|Lucifer]] – Cylon [[Cogitator]] serving the [[Imperious Leader]]
*[[Count Iblis]] – Ancient evil entity, revealed to have a connection to the current Cylon Imperious Leader

===Casualties===

*Captain [[Hecate (TOS-RH)|Hecate]] – Veteran warrior killed in battle with the Chitain<ref name="WH231">{{cite book/RH|2|231}}</ref>
*Approximately one hundred [[Sky]] warriors at the embassy on Xerik-12<ref name="WH48">{{cite book/RH|2|48}}</ref>
*Numerous Colonial warriors and Viper pilots in the battle over Poseidon

==Ships and Vehicles==

===Colonial Fleet===

*''[[Galactica (TOS-RH)|Galactica]]'' – Flagship [[battlestar (TOS)|battlestar]]
*''[[Pegasus (TOS-RH)|Pegasus]]'' – Commander Cain's battlestar
*''[[Daedelus (TOS-RH)|Daedelus]]'' – Battlestar commanded by Colonel Athena during the Xerik system battle
*''[[Hephaestus (TOS-RH)|Hephaestus]]'' – Forge ship for constructing new Vipers
*''[[Rising Star (TOS-RH)|Rising Star]]'' – Entertainment ship hosting Triad tournaments
*''[[Ligeia]]'' – Entertainment ship used for theatrical productions and musical performances, hosts Apollo's death match
*''[[Tantalus]]'' – Restaurant ship, popular destination for fleet citizens
*''[[Virgon Star]]'' – Ship housing Plutarch's laboratory
*''[[Starlight]]'' – Battle cruiser from Cain's Poseidon fleet, used for the diplomatic mission to Xerik-7<ref name="WH137">{{cite book/RH|2|137}}</ref>
*Three unnamed Poseidon-built battle-cruisers
*[[Viper (TOS-RH)|Vipers]] – Colonial starfighters, including new [[Scarlet-class Viper]]s and [[Azure-class Viper]]s
*[[Duet (TOS-RH)|Duet]] – Two-Viper configuration flown by Troy and Dalton

===Alien Ships===

*[[Chitain warship]]s – Tapered cylindrical vessels with bio-mechanoid tendrils and tail stingers<ref name="WH2-3">{{cite book/RH|2|2-3}}</ref>
*Chitain mother ship/dreadnought – Massive capital ship
*[[Sky]] armor-ships – Crescent-shaped vessels that conform to the Sky's unique physiology<ref name="WH1">{{cite book/RH|2|1}}</ref>
*[[Cylon basestar (TOS)|Cylon base stars]] – Three arrive at the end of the novel<ref name="WH273">{{cite book/RH|2|273}}</ref>
*[[Cylon Raider (TOS)|Cylon Raiders]] – Enemy fighters

==Locations==

*[[Xerik system]] – Star system containing multiple planets colonized from Kobol
*[[Xerik-7]] – Chitain homeworld, location of secret Cylon base
*[[Xerik-12]] – Gas giant with multiple moons
*[[Xerik-12's third moon|Third moon of Xerik-12]] – Location of Sky embassy destroyed by Chitain attack
*[[Poseidon]] – Habitable planet discovered by Cain, evacuated due to long-term genetic effects
*[[DarAvqq system]] – Home system of the Sky civilization<ref name="WH48">{{cite book/RH|2|48}}</ref>
*[[Kobol (TOS)|Kobol]] – Ancient origin world of humanity
*[[Cylon (planet)|Cylon]] – Homeworld of the Cylon race, created by Count Iblis

==Technology==

*[[Quantum Shift-Effect generator]] (QSE) – Cylon technology that phases ships out of normal dimensional reality, making them invisible<ref name="WH267">{{cite book/RH|2|267}}</ref>
*[[Infosphere]] – Cylon data storage device captured in ''Armageddon''
*[[Cylon Centurion]] drone – Plutarch successfully constructs a functional drone based on Cylon specifications<ref name="WH50-51">{{cite book/RH|2|50-51}}</ref>
*Holographic map of the [[Cyranus (TOS)|Cyranus]] nebula – Ancient map showing locations of Kobollian colonies<ref name="WH20">{{cite book/RH|2|20}}</ref>

==Themes==

*'''Leadership and Sacrifice''': Apollo and Athena must make difficult decisions about evacuation, combat tactics, and confronting Cain's authority—all while risking their own lives and those of their warriors.
*'''Prejudice and Understanding''': Apollo's acceptance of Gar'Tokk as his bodyguard demonstrates growth beyond the prejudice many hold against the Borellian Nomen.
*'''The Cost of War''': The novel emphasizes the casualties of battle, particularly Captain Hecate's death and Starbuck's near-fatal injuries, showing that victory comes at a terrible price.
*'''Trust and Betrayal''': The Chitain's betrayal, orchestrated by Cylon manipulation, demonstrates how desperate circumstances make it difficult to distinguish friend from foe.
*'''Ancient Mysteries''': The ongoing quest to understand the [[Lords of Kobol]] and humanity's ancient heritage continues to drive the narrative.
*'''Technology and Power''': The QSE technology represents both a tactical advantage and a moral question—using enemy technology to survive while maintaining human values.

==Notes==

*The novel introduces the [[Sky]], a peaceful telepathic alien race that becomes humanity's ally, providing an interesting contrast to the savage [[Chitain]] and mechanical Cylons.
*''Warhawk'' expands on the quantum reality concepts introduced in ''Armageddon'' with the QSE technology, which will continue to play a role in subsequent novels.
*The revelation that Count Iblis and the Cylon Imperious Leader are connected—possibly the same entity—adds a metaphysical dimension to the conflict that goes beyond simple military confrontation.
*Plutarch's successful construction of a Cylon drone demonstrates that the Colonials are beginning to understand and potentially counter Cylon technology, though this knowledge comes with ethical implications.
*Cassiopeia's character development includes her growing attraction to Plutarch, though she recognizes it as infatuation and maintains her feelings for Starbuck, adding complexity to the romantic relationships within the fleet.
*The death match between Apollo and Gar'Tokk serves as a turning point in relations between the Colonials and the Borellian Nomen, suggesting that courage and honor transcend cultural differences.
*Cain's character evolves from the confident warrior-president to a man who must learn to trust others and accept that prudence sometimes matters more than courage, particularly in his reunion with Sheba.

==Behind the Scenes==

''Warhawk'' was published by Byron Preiss Multimedia Company and Boulevard Books in September 1998, continuing Richard Hatch's novelization series that reimagines the original ''Battlestar Galactica'' series. The novel was co-written with Christopher Golden, who had previously collaborated on ''Armageddon''.

The novel's title refers both to the savage Chitain warriors and to the "warhawk speed of thought" that gives the Sky their combat advantage, symbolizing the different approaches to warfare represented by the various species in the story.

==References==
<references />

==External links==

{{Richard Hatch novels}}
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