It was actually over in a few short minutes but it seemed to go on for an eternity. He waited until the last possible minute, though he didn't want to draw anymore attention to himself than he already had. Standing and brushing himself off, he stretched out a hand in an attempt to help the man up. In as nervous and completely frazzled a voice as he could muster,

"Your majesty are you alright?"

"I was perfectly fine until you landed on top of me you buffoon!"

"Sorry. So sorry. I apologize if I hurt you but you did see the Narn break free of his chains? I feared he would attack you in some fit. You must be protected."

Then Vir stops for a minute cause he's said all he really wants to on the matter. He's prepared to play his ace but would rather save that trump card for later. Cartagia stares at him for a few intense and uncomfortable seconds before shifting his gaze around the room. He sees the Royal Guards laying flat on their backs unconscious, he sees the hind parts and various articles of clothing belonging to those who were his guests for the afternoon's entertainment sticking out around pieces of furniture and drapes where they'd obviously scurried for cover. Then he turns back to Vir and sees the bumbling and simple minded, but loyal, Centuari who knew no better than to practically attack him in a sincere attempt to save his life and laughs.

"Your methods require much in the way of improvement. I suppose it is a good thing for all of us that you are not one of the palace guards. But, you did try to do your duty."

As Cartagia says those last words he turns around to meet the down turned gaze of most of the courtly folk who obviously left him at the hands of a savage Narn. But, Cartagia is not mad at them either. Emperor or not, they are gentry and they acted just as he would have. Just as he had many times in the past before assuming the throne.

Vir does not show any outward signs of relief. He knows all too well who he's dealing with and the real buffoon might change his mind in a heart beat. Instead he goes into full idiot mode, bows a bit too deeply, mumbles and scurries excitedly from the room. Satisfied that Cartagia won't require any of their heads as a peace offering, the others join him in laughing at Mollari's aide.

"Londo, how ever do you get any work done on that station with him as your assistant?"

Shaken from his remorse and revery, Londo almost missed Cartagia's address,

"He's alright with some tasks. I admit nothing too complicated, but he tries. I just don't give him anything of great importance to do. Enough of that one, are you harmed? Do you require a medical assistance?" [Perhaps a neurosurgeon with limited experience in frontal lobotomies, yes?]

While Londo still hasn't recovered from what just happened, he is coherent enough to deflect attention away from Vir. [That fool! What was he thinking? If G'Kar had gotten close to Cartagia he would have killed him for sure and that would've solved my biggest problem!]

"No, Mollari. I am unharmed. It seems your aide has lost a considerable amount of weight in this last year. If it had been anytime prior to that, I would be in great need of medical attention." He and most of the others find this extremely amusing. The others are intent on keeping Cartagia in a good mood and distracted so that he does not realize that the Narn escaped while they are still in his presence. [No, we wish to be long gone before that revelation occurs.]

Londo had been taken completely off guard by G'Kar's actions. He had no idea who those other guards or noblemen were. When he saw the chains snap loose Londo did just as he was taught. He took cover. Then he realized G'Kar wouldn't kill him, they had a deal. Londo was not happy about that in the least. He wondered that the fool would jeopardize his chance for release and the freedom of his people just days before he would have everything he wanted simply because he'd had enough of Cartagia's torture.

That's when more of the details of the incident started shifting into place. He realized those were not palace guards who accompanied the other two. He also realized that the whole thing was a rescue attempt. When he considered who would attempt to free a Narn, especially that one, on Centauri Prime his suspicions grew. As far as Londo Mollari knew or was concerned there wasn't a Centauri alive who would free a Narn—except himself. But that was for the greater good of all Centauri so that did not really count. No, the only people that Londo could think of who would attempt something like that rescue, right under the Emperor's nose and in the presence of so many witnesses were those on Babylon 5. "This smells suspiciously like the work of Mr. Garibaldi." Londo murmured this under his breath as he surveyed the wreckage around the room. Then he thought back to Vir's reaction to learning that G'Kar was a prisoner in the palace. [I do not like what I am thinking!]

In that moment Londo knew he had to get out of Cartagia's presence so that he would not give away his deepest thoughts. For an insane idiot and a mad man, Cartagia could be very perceptive at times. He also did not want to be around when Cartagia realized G'Kar was gone. After excusing himself, Londo went to the quiet of his suite to put the rest of his thoughts in order. He could not even begin to address how he would be able to put his plan into motion now that G'Kar was gone. No, instead of that, he thought on how G'Kar had left. "Those were not Centauri who disarmed the guards. That means they were wearing changeling nets. Those are outlawed and Michael Garibaldi is a law man." [Perhaps he makes exceptions under the right circumstances.] The timing was too perfect. He reflected back on G'Kar's strange behavior in his cell the night he explained the plan. "Why would he agree to it if he were not planning on going through with it?"

Then Londo remembered G'Kar hadn't actually agreed to it. In fact he hadn't said a word the entire time. [Why did I not pick up on it before? How could he possibly have a sore throat when he does not speak and has yet to scream?] Londo realizes that he assumed G'Kar would jump at the chance to free his people. That is the one angle he cannot reconcile. He knows how much the man loves his people. He knows how hard G'Kar has worked over the years. He knows that G'Kar would do anything to uplift the Narns. —And harm the Centauri if possible. He cannot figure out how G'Kar could turn that down in favor of his own personal freedom. He's certain that those were definitely Garibaldi's men if not him in the group as well. But Londo knows that there is nothing any of them can do to help the Narns and that is the one thing G'Kar lives for. [Perhaps all these months of torture were too much for him, indeed, and he just wanted to be free.] No, Londo does not buy that. He's pacing the floor trying to put the pieces into place and isn't quite sure what to do about them. There is just no reason for G'Kar to ever abandon the Narns. "And yet he has." Londo knows the Centauri. There is absolutely nothing that would cause them to free Narns and nothing that those on Babylon 5 could do to make them. So, why would he walk away? It is a question he can find no answer to but decides one thing clearly. G'Kar will pay for his deception and for ruining his chance to end their alliance with the Shadows.

Each step across the room brings him one step closer to the truth. He knows it had to be staged and that G'Kar knew it was coming. He was certain that G'Kar did not know precisely when but that he knew a rescue effort was being planned on his behalf. This brought him back to Vir. G'Kar had been in the palace for months. A week after Vir's first visit, he is rescued in some grand and typically flashy human production. "Yes, that screamed human planning." Then there was Vir's uncharacteristic actions toward the Emperor. [True, Vir does not know what I know of Cartagia. He also does not know what is happening in the palace. But, I'm not too comfortable with his sudden need to protect our majesty.] That thought stops Londo in his tracks. He can't believe that he just considered Vir Cotto was actively a part of the escape. That would mean that Vir was not only disloyal, but that he planned a great deal of it. Perhaps even acted as a major source of information. Then Londo thought about the worse possibility. He wondered if it was Vir who had gotten them access to the palace.

"No. Not possible!" He remembered just whom he was dealing with and realized he could not have known. No, it was simply a coincidence. "Vir had no way of knowing I would summon him back here so soon. He arrived just today." Londo knew Michael Garibaldi. He probably got the information from various sources and followed up on it until he found out where G'Kar was, then planned to get him out. "Yes. Vir's actions were just what he said they were." Unconsciously, Londo Mollari began to exhale. The vise grip around his heart lessened, then fell away. And he was able to regain his sense of equilibrium. For the last hour that he spent thinking of things that were just not possible, his world began to spin off its axis. "Yes, everything is as it should be."

Once Londo eased his mind of the thoughts he initially entertained [How could I ever have suspected Vir?!] he turned back to the problem of G'Kar's absence and what he was going to be able to do in such a short time. He wondered if any of the plan was salvageable at this point. He still hadn't reminded Cartagia about the trip they were to make or his offer of G'Kar as a gift. Deciding not to bring up the former as he'd need more time to come up with a new plan, he opted to file that second little tid bit away for when Cartagia started screaming about the loss of 'HIS' Narn. "Perhaps that will give me some peace but I doubt it."

He turns back to the problem of Refa and Cartagia. He has to figure out a new way of disentangling the Centauri from their mess. He still has no information on the various lands and a few islands that are now in the hands of the Ministry of Defense. Yes, the parcels of land were remote enough that they made very good locations for the military. But what could they possibly want with several deserted tropical islands? He wondered if that last part was simply the Minister's way of gaining control of them now and then finding a way to purchase them later at a reduced price. "Sound reasoning. I would do the same myself." Wanting to stay as far away from Cartagia for as long as he could until the initial explosion was over, Londo thought he would take the day off. He really needed to get out of that palace and considered that some time away might help his perspective when he returned.

When Londo considered where he would go or with whom he would spend his time, only one name came to mind. "I can't believe I am voluntarily submitting myself to torture such as this!" But the truth is out of all of his wives, whom he publically and frequently referred to as death, pestilence and plague, Timov was the only one he liked or had any real affection for. They seemed to understand one another even though they made a grand production out of not getting along. Neither would admit just why Londo did not divorce her when Cartagia granted him the amazing gift of being free of all his wives from the traditional arranged marriages a few months ago. The Royal Divorce freed Londo but disgraced the women for life, they could never marry again. No, Londo and Timov never addressed that just as neither would acknowledge the fact that when he was dying and his other wives flatly refused to assist him with medical treatment (in hopes of becoming widowed earlier than expected, no doubt), Timov was the one to secretly go to Dr. Franklin and request to be a donor. These were subjects they both pointedly ignored and then moved on to either ignoring or insulting one another.

Vir had much work to do once he scampered out of Cartagia's presence. He had to temporarily disable the connection between the audience chamber and the guard station so that Cartagia could not immediately send others in pursuit. Then he had to back track his earlier movements that day. Vir realized that the telepathic conversation in the hall with Marcus might be recorded on one of the security cameras. That could not be permitted. It wasn't as if they could hear anything. But Vir wasn't going to take the chance of anyone learning of their meeting. He had to get the recordings and destroy them. He also had to get any recordings from the audience chamber. Vir was certain that a not so careful study of those would reveal a great deal of suspicious eye contact between people who should not be looking at each other. He was pretty sure the others did not notice but he saw those denn'boks expand and knew that was the cause of the downed guards and the destroyed room. The others might not readily put it together but Vir was absolutely certain Londo would make the connection to him once he saw the Minbari fighting pike. [What is it with Rangers and Warriors? They love those things.] Vir stopped and thought about how effective a weapon it was and that it is very easy to conceal. He decided that if he lived through the day and the rest of the madness he'd have to endure, he would ask Malcolm and Shanmal to teach him how to use one.

Vir and Malcolm had managed to bring two other Rangers into their plans. Shanmal could not be of direct assistance within the Republic but would work from Minbar. Just as Vir was comfortable and extremely successful at passing for a human, humans could pass for Centauri easily. Well, Vir admitted that human females could not unless they were willing to shave their heads and for some reason, none of them were. Vir gave this great thought a few years ago when he first arrived on Babylon 5. He remembered the stories of Centauri first contact with Earth and how they tried to claim that Earth was really a lost Centauri colony. He was never quite sure if they actually believed the humans would be stupid enough not to bother to check DNA. He wondered that the humans continued to deal with them after that, but considered that the Centauri explanation of simple mistake was plausible.

Regardless, Vir studied humans while on Babylon 5. He found them fascinating. He found the entire concept of the Babylon Project fascinating. Most of the other races in the League could not understand why they kept building new stations after each was either destroyed or disappeared. He learned later from Commander Sinclair that was part of what he called the human condition. They keep doing something until they get it right. They keep trying until they master. They never allow things to defeat them. Vir liked that. Some things about humans he did not understand and did not particularly like, such as disbelieving anything they could not see, touch, taste, or smell. Or their failure to understand that there were things greater than themselves in the universe. Things that no one could or would understand. He also disliked their obsession with having to be right or needing to have the last word.

Aside from these minor things, Vir had no problem with humans. But then, Vir did not have problems with races as a whole at all. He had noticed that there were very different kinds of humans and some were exactly like Centauri in every manner except the cosmetic. For some reason, that did not give him much comfort. While on Minbar, Vir spent a great deal of his free time contemplating many things. He did comparative studies between the Centauri and other races. In the beginning, he hoped it would help him understand his people's compulsion with returning to the great days of the Republic. It did not. He looked at the Minbari and considered their culture and history as well as their prosperity. Then he thought about the humans and the Narns. Was there a difference between being enslaved and being pushed to the brink of extinction as a specie? He was not sure but he did note that the humans had managed to come farther in the last decade than the Narns in the last century. Yes, there were definitely many humans who did not understand and still hated the Minbari because of what they'd done. Some of those humans had come onto the station a few times. Vir had never visited Earth, but he was pretty sure there weren't any Minbari strolling around like there were humans on Minbar. And, he was fairly certain that if they did travel to Earth, they would not be welcome.

Like most others in the galaxy, Vir did not understand why the Minbari surrendered. Stopping the war and pulling back was one thing, but to surrender to a defeated enemy on the eve of their complete destruction; that he never understood. That is, until he learned of the Anla'Shok. Vir Cotto did his homework there too. He knew and he understood that those two species were tied together in some incomprehensible and unbreakable bond. He hoped that his people would not insist on being shackled to the Narns in such a way. He saw nothing good coming from that cycle of hate and one upmanship. It was during his many hours of studying the humans through their history that Vir explored Sinclair's concept of the human condition. He also understood their drive or need to resist tyranny and oppression as they saw it. There were many different ways to accomplish this and their history was full of examples. Once Vir learned of the true extent of Cartagia's deal with the Shadows, he began to consider the various ways he could gain assistance in driving them from his world. He could not count on the Rangers exclusively. Vir knew he needed the assistance of other Centauri. His problem was finding them.

Many months ago, Vir studied the teachings of G'Quon. He read about him while he was trying to work out the details of freeing the Narns. He was certain that many of them had heard of the Anla'Shok or at least remembered the ones from the days of the last Shadow war even if they did not care now. The Narns would be suspicious of anyone outside of their race trying to help them. He and Shanmal spent some time working out a way for them to understand why outsiders were getting involved with their plight. He was pretty sure they would not trust any Centauri involvement and would suspect a trick so they were careful to leave that out. Plus, they could not take the chance of some Narn throwing it in the Centauri's face later. But, somewhere along the path of simply researching their history, Vir stumbled on a few of G'Quon's theories. One he embraced almost immediately, though it gave him little pleasure when he first started the task. He had to know himself. That was difficult but he did it. The hardest part was knowing his people. It was a cruel lesson to learn and an embarrassing one. But, it was also how he was able to come up with the plan to kill off the Narns to get them to safety.

G'Quon's lessons were also what caused Vir to admit completely to his people's weaknesses and character flaws. He found that some of the things G'Quon said were similar to Valen's words. He had to wonder at that. Then he started researching the Centauri. He delved into their ancient past and found something that shocked and amazed him. He had to know more. He studied intensely and that was when everything fell into place for him. It gave him peace and understanding. It gave him a true sense of purpose. Vir took all these things and tied them together with what he learned of human resistance movements and freedom fighters from their history. Vir considered the Shadows as the ultimate tyrants of oppression so he figured the parallels were similar enough. After destroying any possible evidence of his involvement in G'Kar's escape and reconnecting the audience chamber with the guard station, Vir knew it was time to get to work. Armed with all of his knowledge and insight, he set off to recruit some help and Vir knew exactly where to look.

Commander Ivanova was constantly proclaiming to be Russian. It was always offered as an explanation for either her attitude, behavior, or reasoning. It wasn't until he began his careful study of the human condition that her words made any sense. He saw many similarities between the Russian monarchy of the 19th and early 20th century and the current Centauri form of government. When he considered that those from court and the great houses did not oppose Cartagia or question him in any way, he knew it was because they were gaining wealth. That was, without question, the most important thing to the majority of Centauri so he would get no help there. But the workers and servants weren't gaining any personal wealth no matter how successful the Centauri Republic was as a whole. No, Vir needed some bolsheviks and he knew exactly where to find them.

White Star 2 thought nothing of Marcus Cole's unexpected arrival on board. Until they noticed him heading straight for the chapel. Silent, yet collective groans went out. Talia had finally stopped haunting their ship but when they considered the hasty exit of White Star's 3 & 14 before the Vorlon died, they knew since she was also connected to that and White Star 14 was simply keeping her secret now. Cole's presence was definitely a surprise. [Things have been so quiet lately.] Then they had to wonder when they considered fighting a war against the Shadows as quiet. They were discrete and unassuming but they knew to watch this one carefully. And they did.

Marcus was not happy. He hadn't counted on Fannol having such access to certain information and wasn't sure how Kosh found out. Then again, he hadn't counted on a Soulwalker being among them either. The only thing he counted as a good sign was that Stephen had not revealed him. He did not understand why. Then he remembered that his friend was always discrete and silent in matters he was not required to discuss. Marcus finally had to admit that some part of him actually thought that even a Soulwalker wouldn't know or be able to tell. Not until he said that thing about not needing science or medicine to know who he and Susan were when he met them. Then he understood that message was for him as much as it was an explanation for Talia. Now he had to wonder when or if Fannol would say anything. "Why would he?"

Marcus Cole wasn't about to share anything with anyone. "And what was with the captain singling me out when he was talking about the Technomages?" Marcus wondered what Sheridan knew. He'd spent a considerable amount of time being dead, who knew what knowledge he came back with. Of course, his knee jerk reaction probably didn't help much. [Stephen shares like once every blue moon, how was I suppose to know he'd pick today to loosen up? And, I really didn't know what he was going to say.] Marcus knew that wasn't an excuse. Thankful that none of the others besides maybe Delenn or the captain caught his reaction, he resolved to do a better job of relaxing in the future. Then his mind went back to the first time Susan had a nutty in the War Room. "He didn't believe in anything back then. Where did the captain learn that litany?" With Susan marching in and the events that followed, the captain never answered and everyone's seemed to let it go. One thing Marcus is keenly aware of, there are many things that he and his friends allow to slide but they never forget.

Then there was Lorien. So far he hadn't said anything, hadn't come to him with questions or mentioned anything but he was absolutely certain that he had to know something. He was a First One after all. All of them knew that even though it went unspoken. They all knew he had to be the one to bring the captain back. They understood that from them having to take Susan to Sigma 957. What Marcus couldn't figure out is why no one wonders why he can manipulate or channel life energy or how he was able to help save Susan while they were en route to the planet. He's certain none of them have figured it out [well except maybe Fannol but that's not fair cause he's cheating!] or they would have said something. It does cause him to wonder why Kosh wanted to touch Fannol. Susan, he could probably see. He still hadn't had the time to really sit down and consider those two. Talia is a mystery that he doesn't really feel like solving anymore. "Well, maybe being curious of Fannol in the past had a little something to do with Susan. I still can't figure them out and they seem to be getting worse. What IS with all that touching!"

All of these things and more are swimming around in Marcus' head as he tries to make sense of the day he's had. That meeting was one of the worse they've had in a while. Not since Talia first started in on her theory that Earth was mixed up with the Shadows. Now there was proof. And there were 16 dead Rangers who somehow died at the same time even though they were in different locations. On different planets. He didn't like that. It was a mystery that he was determined to find a way to solve. Yes, Entil'Zha is recalling all Rangers from Earth territories but Marcus still thinks the way they died is very important information. He also wonders that he did not feel their deaths. He had no clue until Fannol gave his report that they were dead. That concerned him.

Many people or races think that the Universe is constantly moving objects and beings around like chess pieces on a board. That does not happen. There is an over-all plan but each any every single player starts out with free will and the ability to choose their own way. Nothing is preordained. Even the group on the War Council isn't bound to their actions no matter what gifts or abilities they have. Every single one of them could walk away from the fight or the service of the Light. That he is absolutely certain of and is sure they each know it. He does have to put Sheridan in a class by himself though. Marcus is a little miffed that he didn't see that coming but considered that no one—except Susan—could have known who he really is. Many things happened over the last week and the revelations he heard in the captain's quarters had not settled. But one thing Marcus Cole was absolutely certain of, he would not miss Sheridan's plan unfold. There was no way he'd not have a hand in helping whatever was to be, to be. Then he considered Delenn. He was tied to her so as long as she was with Sheridan, so would he.

Fannol waited as long as he could. He wanted to speak with Lorien on a few personal matters and also figured there was no way he'd get out of attending this family reunion the way Kosh first reacted to sensing Lorien when he walked into the War Room. However, he knew that the captain and Lorien would need private time together and he did not want to interfere in any way. But Kosh was getting on his nerves at the worse possible moments. "I suppose Vorlons are not used to being put on hold." It did not help that his crew had no idea that it was he and not Susan who was touched by the Vorlon so the minor changes they started seeing were not considered a good thing. Truth be told, Fannol wanted answers and he found that Kosh could be just as stingy and uncooperative as Stephen. On the other hand, it was taking some serious time and effort, but Fannol was learning how to move through Kosh's consciousness and spirit. This was both enlightening and entertaining. He found that Vorlons do have a sense of humor. Or at least an appreciation of the absurd.

But he wondered why Kosh was giving him certain information in the form of dreams instead of the semi direct conversations he was struggling to keep up with. [Apparently I am taking too long and he'd rather be done with it sooner.] But the dreams where worse than a Vorlon's typical verbal exchange. All he got were pictures or scenes of things he knew where symbolic and not actual. People he knew and some he'd never seen before representing whatever Kosh was trying to tell him.

He always woke up immediately following one of the dreams and he always remembered everything. This caused him to spend a great deal of off duty time sifting through the messages trying to understand what they meant. Some times Fannol could not help being a little suspicious that they were intended to be a distraction. Before Kosh, he was trying to remember things he couldn't. Trying to piece together information about both he and Susan. It was at those times when his mind seemed almost ready to focus in on exactly what he needed to know that he'd get interrupted.

The one thing he disliked above anything else was Kosh's habit of speaking whenever he felt like it. The first few times shocked him so badly he was not able to conceal that something was amiss. He would actually turn around looking for the source of the voice. He knew his crew would begin to question his fitness for command. He knew Susan finally figured out exactly what was going on when she started laughing at him one night during dinner. After a lengthy 'discussion' with Kosh he thought they'd come to an understanding. Apparently not because Kosh was demanding to spend time with Lorien and not happy with Fannol dragging his feet on the matter. Kosh was not the least bit moved that Fannol was trying not to interfere with his time with Captain Sheridan. As some sort of payback or inducement, Kosh would not shut up one day while Fannol was on the bridge. He kept going on and on and on, insisting on conducting a lesson right there in the middle of battle. Only when he felt Fannol resolve to see Lorien as soon as they returned did Kosh shut up. [Everyone thinks it is so wonderful to be touched by a Vorlon, let them put up with this for a week.]

Approaching Lorien's quarters, he did not see the captain's guards so he felt more comfortable with paying a visit now. He couldn't be sure but Fannol could almost swear he felt something along the lines of 'I told you so'. Either way, he did not care enough to question it and just let it go.

"Ah, I was hoping we would have an opportunity to speak in private."

"Yes, I did want us to meet but I also did not want to interfere with your time with Captain Sheridan."

Lorien looks over Fannol carefully. He is pleased by this surprise visit for two reasons. He truly missed Kosh and was sadden to learn of his death on arrival. To see that a piece of him remained was enough to instantly lift his spirits. He also wanted to meet and speak with the person Kosh felt compelled to touch. That is an extremely rare thing for a Vorlon to do. Even the circumstances of his likely death fighting the other did not justify such an action alone. No, if Kosh simply wanted to teach this one, he would have started long before the possibility of his death. Lorien was certain there was something else. Something special about this one that required Kosh reach out to him and remain with him all this time.

Then he considered the Universe gathering all those unique individuals in one place. Even the one who was lost to them for months seems to have returned much altered. He studied that one as well. His mind was as quiet as Captain Sheridan's and he had not been taught by a Vorlon. Lorien had his suspicions about G'Kar and just what exactly happened to him during his imprisonment. Looking back to Fannol, he smiled and asked him to have a seat.

"So, how are you and my former student getting along?" Lorien could not help but laugh at Fannol's groan and rolling his eyes. He tried to be polite and diplomatic in his response.

"We are adjusting. He is...persistent when he wants something."

Now it was Lorien's time to laugh. "Yes, I remember. Don't take it personal. Whatever the teacher wishes to teach, the student must be ready to learn."

Fannol thinks on that for a few moments then turns to Lorien,

"When you see me, you see more than one who has been touched by a Vorlon. What do you see?"

[I'm curious as to his level of understanding. Kosh has had little time with him. Very unusual.]

"Perhaps you would like to take a walk." Guessing Lorien was stalling but glad that it wasn't an outright refusal to answer the question, he agreed and they set off together.

Everybody on the War Council knew Lorien was almost as much of a head turner as the captain. Susan wasn't sure but she figured that there would be a serious tie between who was more interesting if Lorien's true identity got out. Lorien didn't agree. To the captain's chagrin, Lorien felt that coming back from the dead was a much bigger deal than managing to stay alive for billions of years.

Fannol hadn't thought about the attention they would draw. After hearing Lorien say that he'd been sitting alone for the last million years and hadn't spoken to anyone until Captain Sheridan arrived Fannol was determined that he spend as much time walking among the crowds as he wanted. Understanding Fannol's intentions immediately, Lorien was very pleased with his thoughtfulness. Things had changed so much during the time he was apart from others. Civilizations rise and fall. They achieve the highest levels of technological advancement and then they collapse into ruin. They are mortal and their existence is finite. They die and a few million years after their extinction, another specie replaces them and starts the cycle all over again. Technology that he saw on the station, he witnessed several million years ago.

One thing Lorien was not familiar with were the humans and the minbari. Those two specie were as different as night and day for all practical purposes and yet they came together in a common cause to fight the Shadows. The humans here on this station appear to have embraced the mission to drive out the Darkness with as much passion and fervor as the Minbari 1,000 years ago. [Yes, the Universe is cunning and complex. This is fascinating.] Something was very different this time around. He allowed himself just a glimmer of hope when he first met Sheridan but did not want to get too excited. He began walking around the station, taking in the various people, and it went without saying that the captain's friends were the most complex, most complicated and most unbelievable assortment he'd ever encountered. Yes, Lorien was certain, this time would be different. He wondered about Marcus Cole. It did not take long to realize he was the one the Oracle referred to as hiding his identity. When Lorien thought about, he had to agree. If he were Marcus Cole, he'd hide it too.

Susan noticed that Lorien and Fannol had developed some sort of understanding between them and she was glad. Once she figured out that it was Kosh's outbursts that only Fannol could hear that were causing him to react a certain way, she hoped that a little time in Lorien's presence would curb that tendency. Never in her wildest dreams would she imagine that a Vorlon would be susceptible to a temper tantrum. "Why not, we've got a Soulwalker throwing fits of indignation twice a week around here. I shouldn't be surprised."

Fannol realized immediately that Lorien wasn't going to answer his question. Either he did not know or he did not feel it was his place to share the information. Fannol was pretty sure it was the last part because he knew exactly who Lorien was. Garibaldi was not alone in wanting to know why Kosh singled out Fannol. Unlike Stephen and Michael, the other were still trying to figure out how that happened. Those two just chalked it up to the weirdness that is that friendship and moved on. Lorien enjoyed his time with Fannol just as much as Fannol had come to enjoy it as well. Their talks were eye opening for both of them. Lorien helped him to see in a different light. He also helped Fannol to understand Kosh specifically and Vorlons in general more than he thought possible. Based on the way Lorien spoke, Fannol got the impression he'd be spending a lot of time around many Vorlons and needed the heads up. He wasn't exactly looking forward to that but took it in stride. Most of all, he was pleased that Kosh was in a much better mood and staying quiet for longer and longer periods of time.

Once Michael learned of the groups of people flocking to the station to catch a peek at the captain, he was concerned about a couple of things.

"Susan, did you assign anyone to guard the private bay?"

Completely surprised by his out of left field question, "Huh?"

"Did you assign anyone to guard the private bay? You know where Kosh and Lorien's ships are."

Realization is starting to dawn on her and Michael can see her beginning to get a clue so he just waits.

"No. Not after the captain returned. You think we should? I don't know about Lorien's but no one can get into Kosh's ship."

"No one except you and Fannol that is. But I'm not comfortable with all these new arrivals."

"What are you thinking?"

"That everybody coming to Mecca to see Mohammed isn't a believer if you know what I mean."

"Rarely, Michael does anyone know what you mean. But, I get your point. I've been a little worried about that as well. At some point, someone's gonna try something and Stephen's already told us that there's no way to identify an aide or assistant of a Shadow agent cause they don't have keepers."

"Yeah. The possibilities around this place for crazy, strange, and weird are endless. But its not just Shadows I'm worried about. Your average Joe can cause just as much trouble. I'm gonna assign some Rangers to guard the bay. Better safe than sorry."

"Fine. They can allow the captain, you, me, Fannol, Stephen—I have no idea why but its definitely a possibility—and Lorien free access to the shuttle bay. Only one whose security detail is allowed inside is John's."

Garibaldi's nodding his head while she's talking making a few notes for the Rangers then lifts his head to look at her when she gets to that last part.

"Susan, I don't know why you'd need to go into that bay but who knows around here. Do you actually think your security is gonna allow that? I'm already gonna have to go up and meet with your Chief Tactical Officer about this."

"Why?" Eyes narrowed but in a purely inquisitive and non hostile manner.

"So he can adjust the 'Ivanova Protocols'. Minbari live for stuff like this. Anytime there's the slightest change in anything you do that remotely impacts security precautions, I've gotta hammer it out with them. I'm not complaining. They've made my life a heck of a lot easier by creating 'Sheridan Protocols' and allowing him up there as much as he wants without a lot of red tape."

This makes them both laugh thinking about it. "Its not THAT bad Michael."

"You're kidding right? You have no idea how relieved I was when they agreed to open their shuttle bay doors the first time he went up to see you. Ok, it was bit of a hassle to work it out but at least I didn't have to convince him that John had to travel in his own shuttle. He understood that. Everything else was a pain in the neck. Don't give me grief over this. I don't like dealing with him when I don't have to."

"Fine. Put them on the list. That ought to give them something else practical to keep them busy for awhile."

A few days after Michael assigned security to the private bay, Fannol showed up in the middle of the night and surprised the Rangers on duty. He had never been to Kosh's ship before and had no idea there was security posted there. Thinking he would not be permitted he was about to turn around to find Garibaldi when one of the guards stepped aside and permitted him entry. Fannol was becoming anxious and disquieted lately. It was a combination of the dreams that made no sense and the strange things Kosh was trying to show him. Kosh was limited in how he could share certain information now. Unlike his time with Sheridan, he could not simply open the iris on his encounter suit and project anything he needed his student to see. Instead, Kosh tried to sift through Fannol's subconscious mind and pick out images that he thought he could make represent what he needed to tell him. It did not always work. Once Fannol started to understand some of them, he was able to show Kosh easier ways to present the information. They were slowly but surely developing their own language and ability to communicate. Michael noticed that Stephen had returned to giving Fannol long looks again but this time, he seemed satisfied with whatever he saw rather than before when he definitely seemed worried about something.

White Star14 contacted White Star 3 to get an update on Ivanova's condition. They were not pleased to find out she was doing better than they'd seen her in a long time. At their confusion, White Star 14 explained that Fannol had gone back to his ways at Tuzanor just as he acted during the secret mission when the Entil'Zha went away. This surprised White Star 3 and they resolved to keep a closer eye on her.

He could not stay cooped up in his quarters. He also could not continue haunting the ship in the middle of the night or seeking quiet and unmonitored refuge in the chapel. [No that is the one place that will definitely make them nervous] Fannol knew that no one could enter a Vorlon ship. But, he figured that Kosh wouldn't mind and hoped the ship would give him access. If not, he was officially out of places to go. There was no way he wanted station Rangers, or anyone for that matter, to find out he was going through something he did not understand. He was not ready to share any of this with Susan and hoped to avoid it entirely if possible because he saw she was acting like her old self at Tuzanor and did not want to affect that.

Unfortunately for Fannol, his late night quiet get away wasn't so quiet after all. After his behavior started changing, White Star 14 adapted some of White Star 3's protocols for their own use. They still had not stopped watching him after that trip to Sigma 957 and his behavior the night the Vorlon died. That concerned them a great deal. So, with his best interest in mind, they monitored the hall outside his quarters and were immediately alerted that he was up and dressed in the middle of the night. When he headed for the shuttle bay they were concerned something had happened to Ivanova so they checked. No incoming report from White Star 3 and their shuttle bay doors remained closed. If they hadn't been keeping an eye on him they never would have gotten his pilot there in time to stop him from shuttling anywhere on his own. This behavior was very different from anything else they'd seen, they did not like it.

"Where to sir?"

Releasing a deep and distracted sigh at not having the least bit of privacy,

"The station." Fannol was in no mood to give any specific details. He hoped that something as innocent as going to the station wouldn't raise any red flags. When he heard the pilot reporting their destination to both tactical and White Star 3, he could do nothing but roll his eyes and pretend he didn't hear that as he stepped inside and took a seat.

"That is a good sign correct? It may be late in the evening but perhaps some work has come up relating to the war that he must finish. He may have to meet someone."

"I don't buy it. And it ain't evening, it's the middle of the night. I am not comfortable with his restless nights and wanderings in the garden. I think he suspects we are monitoring his movements on board and that is the only reason he stays away from the chapel in the middle of the night. He does not want to alarm us."

"My hope was that you would dismiss my concerns. If he is taking measures to shield us from learning what is happening, it must be serious. Though he has never admitted to anything in the past and has always been one for discretion, he has never resorted to outright subterfuge."

"And that is why I am most concerned, Dulann. You are on the bridge. You have watched him turn as if he hears someone. He used to do that a lot in the beginning. I believe he does hear someone or something, he is just used to the voice now."

Dulann is looking at Kesha trying to figure out where she is going with this.

"What do you mean?"

"You heard me say exactly what I mean and you understood me. I do not know what it is all about or who it is that has his ear but it is someone persistent and powerful enough to disrupt his sleep many nights. And I suspect that if he is not having nightmares he is at the very least having some dreams. Confusing or maybe disturbing ones. I am not sure. And, have you noticed that he started spending time with the one who accompanied the captain when he returned? They take long walks around the station. Some times they walk for hours."

"The station is 5 miles long"

"Don't be cute Dulann. Some times they do not speak. Some times they speak a great deal."

"You seem to have gathered an extensive amount of information on his off duty activities."

Kesha looks at Dulann hard for a few moments, sizing him up. She is not playing this game with him.

"I can see you are not surprised by anything I have said. That tells me that you have been conducting your own research into this matter. He is Shok'na, he is a member of the War Council and he is bound to Ivanova in some way no one understands but it is clear that it goes deeper than friendship. Do not pretend that you do not know who she is."

Kesha leveled that last statement and dared Dulann to misdirect his way out of it. Understanding passed between them and there was no more need for pretense or illusion.

"I admit to having some suspicions that go beyond the things you have mentioned though you are correct in everything you have said." Seeing her about to pounce on him for answers.

"No Kesha, they are merely suspicions. You humans seem obsessed with conspiracy theories, I have nothing of that sort to share. I have no proof. There really is no way to gather the proof as it is something that no one has ever seen before. Also, I do not know how it could be possible but I am willing to keep an open mind."

Knowing that she will have to be satisfied with his answer she accepts it and nods. He turns to her,

"What precautions or course of action do you recommend?" Dulann is First Officer but he is well aware that as Chief Tactical Officer, she is always working on new measures to ensure the security of the ship and crew.

Without the least bit of shame for her actions she turns to him and begins her report,

"There are two members of the crew already on the station. They are the ones who monitor his movements with the captain's associate."

"You are basically having him followed?"

"Yes." Again, she said that without shame or guilt. Then proceeded to tell him the rest,

"I also sent a team down tonight after a discrete interval to follow and guard him..."

Before Kesha can finish her report an incoming communication from one of the crew already assigned to the station comes in,

"Remmier, what is your status?"

"We are outside of the private docking bay near the Vorlon's ship."

"Why?" She can tell he isn't sure what to make of the information and is stalling.

"We monitored him leaving the shuttle bay and followed him directly to the private docking bay. There were station Rangers guarding the door. He seemed to hesitate for a moment as if he were about to turn around but as soon as they saw him they stepped aside so that he could enter."

"What is he doing in there?"

"We have no idea. The station Rangers were assigned by Mr. Garibaldi earlier this week. We do not believe Fannol knew they would be there but it was obvious that someone expected that he would visit that bay and warned the guards to let him in."

Dulann and Kesha make eye contact on that last sentence. They were well aware who Remmier thought that someone was.

"The guards will not allow us in. They said that Mr. Garibaldi was very clear about who had access and who did not. We have taken up position to wait."

"Fine. Signal for a relief team in 2 hours if he has not left by then. Do not allow him to see you."

"Understood. Remmier out."

Kesha whips around on Dulann with fire in her narrowed eyes, arms folded across her chest.

"Care to share that suspicion of who's voice he hears but you have no proof? Yeah, I'll admit we love conspiracy theories and can get a little obsessive about them. But there's a reason for that Dulann. Usually there IS a conspiracy."

Dulann tries but can't immediately find a flaw in her logic so he lets that pass. He has no idea how to explain what he suspects so that she will understand because he's not even sure he understands. No, he does and he is certain she is more than capable of comprehending. His concern is that she will not believe him. If that is the case, he has nothing else to give her.

"Quit stalling. By this point, I think we are both thinking some of the same things."

Dulann looks her over quickly and accepts her words as truth and a good sign,

"Perhaps we are. I believe that Fannol has been touched by a Vorlon. By Kosh."

He says no more and simply waits for her reaction. He is surprised by her lack of one. When after several minutes he still gets no response, his concern grows but he is determined to wait her out.

Kesha looks up at him and finally speaks,

"When?"

That was not the response Dulann expected.

"What do you mean when?"

"When do you believe he was touched by Kosh?"

"The day that we pursued White Star 3 to Sigma 957."

Dulann thinks that he is following her thoughts. They both know that when they returned unexpectedly, they jumped from orbit barely 10 minutes after arriving. Only long enough for Talia and Fannol to shuttle over to Ivanova's ship. They both read the reports. Kosh was not on board her ship.

"He was restless but fit for command. Those last two days he was extremely agitated. So much so that Talia led him from the bridge to the chapel and away from our watchful eyes. I know that is why she did that!"

Kesha is pacing every inch of space the office affords. It appears to Dulann that she is growing more and more agitated as she recounts the events but he is not concerned for her well being, yet.

"I read the reports. The Vorlon hit her with a stream of Light. That was him, a part of him wasn't it?"

"Yes."

Kesha feels like she's really cooking now. Minbari have access to many obscure references and information from centuries past that humans do not. What they take for granted is unheard of to most humans. But she thinks she's got the facts. Or enough of them.

"It didn't go into her. Or at least it did not stay. That was at the same time he and Talia were in the chapel. I am certain that whatever the connection between the two of them is, is also what carried that to him. It's the only thing that makes the least bit of sense."

She's not letting Dulann get a word in so he stops and decides to watch the floor show. They have known each other since Ranger training and have developed a good friendship and working relationship. He knows how her mind works with some issues but he had no idea she would grab onto his theory and run with it with no proof. If he had known this he might have come to her with it earlier. [No matter how much time I spend with them, humans will always amaze me]

Still not finished whirling all the possibilities around in her head, Kesha starts speaking but more to herself,

"Minbari know this? All Minbari understand the theory of being touched by a Vorlon?"

"Yes. We have always believed it has happened to certain individuals but no one has ever actually seen it happen. I think that was the most public display ever."

"Hmm." She accepts most of what he said but sees some holes in it. "Everyone thinks that it was Ivanova. But neither have spoken. Those on the War Council never share what happens among and between them. We will get nothing from them."

Then Kesha stops and looks at Dulann intensely before sitting down.

"Ivanova and Fannol keep secrets between them. I have been certain of that since we first returned —before the captain left us and we learned of her condition. They do not share things with even those on the War Council. Not those things that have to do with who she is. No. And the reason that she has no secrets from him is because there are none."

At this point she's gone too far for Dulann to follow her and he has to break in,

"I do not understand. What do you mean there are none?"

"I mean they keep no secrets from each other because there are no secrets for them to keep from each other. Whatever she is specifically, he is so bound and wrapped up in it that they cannot and do not hide from each other. You remember White Star 3's report the night the captain left. Only he knew that she should not be awakened during a nightmare or sedated to prevent them from occurring. They said he would allow no one to touch her or get too close. We had just gotten here that morning. We were BOTH on the bridge when he jumped up calling out her name and ran to the shuttle bay. No, whatever it is between them it is between them."

Dulann had not thought as far as she had on this point. He read the old texts just like many people did as a part of ancient history or folklore as a child. He had not seriously thought of it until he started hearing all the reports about Ivanova's behavior. The gift of sight is one thing. Being the Oracle is something completely different. But he would not deny it after hearing her speak in the Zocolo and then seeing and hearing the One right after that. But what Kesha is saying made no sense. There was nothing in the old stories about another person.

Dulann's confusion was lost on Kesha as she kept talking,

"I bet the others do not know this. I am almost ready to swear that even though the others on the Council know what happened between her and Kosh, they do not know that it is only Fannol."

"Remember the Soulwalker was already on board her ship when he and Talia shuttled over."

"Yes, Dulann. But that means little. White Star 3 has said that she is in better spirits than they have seen her in a long time. Since LONG before Entil'Zha went away. Fannol is not. And you know there is a deep and unexplainable emotional or empathic bond between them. He felt her from all the way out in battle. No. I do not believe that the others know it is only Fannol and not her. They may think she still has a piece of the Vorlon within her. And I really don't even want to think about what that means. Now all of a sudden the private bay is guarded. Its always been a private bay. Kosh has been dead for weeks. There is some new concern, some potential threat looming."

"This is Mr. Garibaldi we are considering. With him any number of reasons is reason enough."

"True. But I like my theory better. And, is the only one besides the captain who spends any considerable amount of time with his associate. Sure, Ivanova stops by and they some times share a meal or go for a short walk. Mr. Garibaldi checks in with him on security issues. He and Citizen G'Kar have had more than a few quiet and secret discussions. And Dr. Franklin has spent time with him as well. But I mean that no one else spends the considerable amount of time with him that Fannol does except the captain."

"Kesha, are you sure you are monitoring Fannol or the one who accompanied with the captain?"

"Don't Dulann. I am thorough and we both know it." She couldn't help but smile at his disbelieving expression.

"I apologize. You are thorough. What is your conclusion and how does this help us with Fannol?"

"Always gotta be the bottom line guy. Fine. I don't actually have a conclusion except that you are right about Fannol being touched by Kosh. And I am right that no one else knows that it is ONLY him and not Ivanova."

Dulann accepts this after a few minutes of thought but still has questions,

"Why are the two of them keeping that a secret?"

"I don't know. Maybe to protect him. People already know she and Kosh had strange encounters. And ½ the Fleet captains SAW her get hit. The room was full of Minbari–Warrior and Ranger and there had to be those from other races who understood or figured it out later. You see how they wanted to hang her in the Zocolo. Those two are tight. I guess she doesn't want him catching the heat."

"Fannol would not hide behind her."

"I'm not saying that he would. I'm saying we'll probably never know unless they tell us but for some reason, they aren't telling anyone that its just him. We aren't telling anyone how he's reacting. And, we aren't telling anyone what we suspect. The only thing I don't like is that station Rangers, who we can't control, will know that he's visiting the private bay. And at this hour of night, they might think it a little too suspicious."

"True. But, I do not think that will be too much of a problem. Anyone who is given a assignment by Mr. Garibaldi, reports only to Mr. Garibaldi. He does not like leaks or gossip. I do not see that station Rangers would care who is visiting that bay or what they are doing inside. What do you think he is doing inside?"

"Kosh's ship is in there isn't it? You put it together."

"No one can enter a Vorlon ship. They do not share their secrets."

"You just said he was touched by Kosh and that's Kosh's ship. We both agree that the one he hears is Kosh and that he's also the one most likely responsible for keeping Fannol awake half the night. Whatever the Vorlon is trying to tell him, its obviously important. I'm guessing important enough to let him in the ship."

Dulann thinks about this for a few minutes then nods his agreement.

"Dulann, what specifically does it mean to be touched by a Vorlon? I know what I see, but what do the Minbari believe?"

"That it is the highest blessing from a Light being and a Light bearer. There is some message brought directly from the Universe to that one and lessons being taught. There are mysteries being unlocked for that person. Fannol was already chosen for something and the Light being is helping him understand and prepare. It has been several hundred of your Earth years since the Vorlons walked among the Minbari. But one thing we know for certain, Vorlons rarely reveal themselves and never all at once. Twice members of the younger races have seen the true face of a Vorlon in public view right here on this station. Before that only the Minbari have ever seen what they are and we have never shared that with anyone. But Kosh revealed himself to save the captain, and we now know why that was because we know who the captain truly is. The second time was to fight that unknown creature of Darkness. Though I am certain that there are at least 4 people who know exactly who that was, considering our timely departure."

Kesha chews on this for a few minutes. She's not sure what any of this means but she is certain that things will be changing for her captain. This is a secret she has no intention of letting anyone find out.

"Fine. Its obvious that he and Ivanova don't want anyone to know this. I don't want anyone to know this. I'm concerned that his condition or movements on the station might be observed by others and that is not acceptable. I am also concerned that he was driven from his own ship. That he feels he cannot have privacy here or that his crew will not keep his secrets. But in going to Kosh's ship he might actually be exposing himself to the scrutiny of others."

Dulann agrees with her but is not pleased by her final observations.

"How can we remedy that? He has already fled our presence. We both agree that he has resorted to subterfuge. How did Ivanova's crew manage to get her to agree to their protection?"

"The circumstances are not the same. She was so far gone with those nightmares there was no way to deny or hide them from her crew."

"Yes, but their silence and her current security measures did not start until after the captain left. After the first engagement. After..." Dulann stops talking and looks over at Kesha.

"After the unknown phenomenon? Yes, I thought about that too. While everyone else was studying the wreckage Fannol had us pull right up next to her ship. That was a Shadow massacre of unheard of proportion yet he did not seemed surprised. I know that you had to notice the way Talia and Fannol were holding hands and staring off into space. I am positive that there was some sort of telepathic conversation going on between them and Ivanova. I am certain that is when she explained what happened. Explained what SHE did to kill all those Shadow ships. That is what her crew saw that made them take over her security arrangements and shut everyone out except us to a degree. They are keeping many of her secrets."

"What are you saying?"

"That I am not waiting around for an unknown phenomenon to rise up and bite us in the ass. I am not going to risk people talking, speculating, or getting in his way. I have no idea what he is going through or what this blessing was intended to lead to but we are not going to fail him."

"What about Talia?"

"What about her?"

"She knows something. We agree that she was with him in the chapel when the Vorlon touched him. She had to have seen it. They all have many secrets. You saw how she moved that Drazi ship and then destroyed that Shadow ship with her mind. That is not normal for any telepath and certainly not a P5 commercial telepath. It was also obvious that both Ivanova and Fannol knew she was capable of something like that. Unfortunately, the reaction of the bridge crew made her so uncomfortable that instead of coming here when she needed refuge, she went to White Star 2."

"I know. Once they contacted me with that report, I suspected that our reaction to her abilities was the reason she would not come here when she needed peace. That is unacceptable and serious changes will have to occur to make sure that never happens again."

"What do you have in mind?"

"First, reports indicate that she gets along much better with her Moon Shield guards than she ever did with station Rangers. The chances of her deciding to go up to one of their ships has increased but I doubt it because her secrets are still a secret. I will contact her and let her know that she has been assigned a permanent shuttle pilot and that anytime she wants to come up she need only contact that person. I'll also inform her that two members of security are being assigned to her when she is on board. They will not get in her way, but they will be here for her protection. Hopefully, these things will allow her to see that she is welcome here."

"Good. Inform her that I have assigned her permanent quarters. What do we do about Fannol?"

"What can we do? Short of walking up to him and saying 'hey, we know you've been touched by a Vorlon but we won't tell anybody' I have no clue how to make him comfortable enough to go to the chapel or walk the gardens in the middle of the night if he needs to. As far as I'm concerned, he can sit in the chapel all night long if that's what it takes for him to get through this. But his being down on that station, away from our protection and watchful eye is too much of a risk. I'm going to down to speak with Mr. Garibaldi first thing in the morning."

"Why? What can he do?"

"He can allow Fannol's security detail access to the shuttle bay while he is in there. It will draw too much attention to his movements having members of his crew waiting outside the door. People will pick up on that and start asking questions."

"Fannol does not have a security detail."

"He does now."

Michael Garibaldi never believed in coincidence and he did not like surprises. So when the Chief Tactical Officer for White Star 14 waltzed into his office for the first time ever, he sat up and took notice. He noticed quite a lot. After entering, Kesha glanced around to be sure there was no one else present. Then she closed and locked the door. Her presence and calculated actions set off all his warning bells but her last action put him on full alert. He did not speak but met her eye. When she reached into her cloak and produced a very sophisticated surveillance jamming device he was primed for whatever was to come. He knew it had to be serious. When he glanced down at his own counter surveillance jamming device hidden beneath his desk and realized that her's rendered his inoperable, he knew he had to get one of those. And, that whatever she was about to say she wanted to go no further than the two of them. He sat back and waited for her to speak but his curiosity was overflowing.

"Mr. Garibaldi, I'd like to have a private word with you."

"Yeah, I gathered that. What's up?"

"What's up is that I'd like to ensure that this conversation remain between the two of us. And that any subsequent conversations relating to what we discuss today also remain between the two of us."

Then she stopped and waited. She knew he wasn't going to lie to her but she was ready for all the misdirection and verbal loop holes she was almost certain he'd throw at her.

"I'm not sure we could possibly discuss anything that would rise to such a level."

She wasn't taking the bait. They both knew she wouldn't speak another word until she had his sworn oath. He sized her up and realized this was a woman on a mission who was basically offering a take it or leave it deal. That impressed him. It irritated him, but it impressed him. [Whatever this is has got to be big for her to go through all this trouble.] That meant it could only be about Fannol. He'd already read the report from those guarding the bay last night. He knew Fannol came down alone in the middle of the night. And, he also knew that members of his crew were hot on his heels at a discrete distance. That told him that she already had them on board the station watching him. It also confirmed that Fannol had no idea he was being watched. Garibaldi was immediately curious about what was going on onboard his ship to make her resort to such measures. He decided to take a chance.

"Sure. You have my word." And he meant it.

Before coming down, Kesha had allowed herself a back door. She wanted her people inside that bay with him, no matter what, even though they wouldn't be able to follow him into the ship. She and Dulann discussed various ways to cut down on others knowing what he was doing. She wasn't sure Garibaldi would agree to her plan A so she was prepared to settle for plan B.

"I would like for you to authorize, with absolute secrecy, that Fannol be allowed to land a shuttle in the private docking bay whenever he chooses to visit it."

That wasn't exactly what he was expecting but it did fall under the right category.

"Why?" [No sense letting her off the hook. And I need to know.]

"Because it is no one's business where he goes or what he does when he is on this station if he does not choose to inform them himself. NO ONE'S."

Garibaldi heard many things in that. He wasn't sure he liked it but he also wasn't sure what he could do about it. He was certain that her emphasis on no one included Ivanova. That meant Fannol wished to keep it a secret even from her. [I didn't think those two had any secrets or where even capable of keeping anything from each other.]

"Uh huh." Kesha made no response. That was not an answer as far as she was concerned and she was determined to get one. She could play chicken with the best of them. She waited.

[Oh yeah. She's definitely serious about this and she's definitely concerned. Hope I don't have to deal with her refusing to open the shuttle bay doors now. What's going on up there?]

"Is there anything I should know?"

"Yes."

[She better not start speaking like Kosh!]

"What is that?"

"That his pilot and his security detail will accompany him down and wait inside the bay until he is ready to return to his ship."

Not the answer Garibaldi was hoping for but it was full of information.

"Have you discussed this with Fannol?"

"With all due respect, that really is not your concern. Will you grant permission for my request?"

He sat quietly for a few minutes turning over what she'd asked. Technically, there was nothing wrong with that.

"Ok, I'll give you that. I don't have a problem with your request and will agree, for now. If a problem arises I'm gonna have to have more details."

"If a problem arises, you and I will discuss it."

Generally, Kesha understood that she could catch a fly with honey better than vinegar but she knew Michael Garibaldi wasn't the ordinary fly. She also knew that her only concern was Fannol's safety and privacy. She didn't care how she sounded. And she seriously doubted that he was offended in the least.

"Fine. I'll make the necessary arrangements but the docking codes are obviously confidential. They aren't handed out to just anyone. And, there is more than one ship in that bay. It is off limits to everyone including his security."

"The contents of that bay are not my concern. Fannol is. Where he goes, his security will go as well. He has a permanent shuttle and pilot. There is no need for anyone else to have the codes. If it will ease your mind, I will personally take over as his pilot."

Then she stopped talking because she felt that was enough to let him know the seriousness of the situation as far as she was concerned. And it was. He had not expected that she would act as his pilot just so that he would agree to allow Fannol to shuttle in directly. [Yeah, whatever is going on is big and she definitely doesn't want anyone to find out about it.]

"That won't be necessary to set this up." He paused for a few seconds to choose his words carefully.

"If you have a few minutes to wait, I'll make the arrangements now."

"Thank you. I can wait."

Once that was all settled and he handed over the data crystal with the codes and docking instructions he noticed she hadn't moved to leave so he figured there was something else.

"Is there anything else?"

"Not on that subject." When he nodded for her to continue,

"I understand that you are the one who made the security arrangements for Talia Winters."

[Major course change. What the hell is going on?]

"Yes, I did that some time ago."

"I wanted to personally notify you that while she is on board or en route to White Star 14, I have assigned a two person security detail for her. Any other security arrangements you have made will not be necessary during those times. She has also been assigned her own shuttle and a permanent pilot. She may dismiss her station guards in the shuttle bay as ours will travel with her at all times. I will discuss this with her in greater detail but she will be instructed not to board any shuttle with any pilot other than the one that is assigned to her unless I have contacted her personally and informed her of the changes."

That was a heck of a lot more than Garibaldi expected. Once again, he found himself wondering why these security changes were being put in place and why they were also including Talia in them. He took a few moments to process this new twist while considering what if any affect it had on her present security arrangements. He wondered if the Warriors would be offended by this new move but he would take it up with them. There were many questions burning in him but he chose the easiest one.

"Why?"

"Because these are part of her security protocols."

Then he had to ask himself why he bothered asking that question. He knew he'd get no more information from her on the subject so decided to let it go—for now.

"Are Talia's security protocols a secret as well?"

"Only if she wishes them to be. But they are also not for public consumption, Mr. Garibaldi. Obviously, she is free to discuss certain things with those she chooses."

Garibaldi had the distinct impression that Talia wouldn't be getting much more information on the subject that he did. [Tricky and sneaky, but effective.]

"Is there anything else I should know?"

"Not at this time."

He translated that to mean, 'not unless I absolutely have to tell you'.

"Fine. I'll smooth things over with the Moon Shields but if there's anything else, you're gonna have to tell them. They really like her."

"We know."

[What the hell kind of answer is that?]

And with that, Kesha snatched up the jamming device unlocked the door and left. Garibaldi forgot to ask her where she got it. "Next time."

To say Talia was surprised by Kesha's visit was an understatement. By the time she finished outlining her 'protocols', Talia did not know what to say.

"Why?"

"Because you are a member of our crew and your protection is a part of our responsibility to you."

That was definitely not something Talia was prepared to hear. It wasn't as if the crew was distant or unkind to her in the least but she never thought they considered her one of them.

"Thank you for your concern. You have to admit these are some major changes Kesha. Is something going on?"

Kesha was prepared for that question and knew she would have to tell her something. Hopefully she would get her point across without causing offense.

"Talia, as I said you are a member of our crew. You are also a member of the War Council and one of our leaders. Both you and Fannol are crucial to everything that is going on and you are both on the same ship. "

She stopped talking but by the expression on her face, Talia knew there was much more and that Kesha was stalling because she was unsure how to word what she had to say next. Talia also figured that would be the real reason for the changes and wanted to make things easier for her,

"Go one. I'm listening."

"I am the Chief Tactical Officer. That means that the safety and security of both the ship and its crew are my sole responsibility. I have no intention of waiting for an unknown phenomenon to occur to force me into taking the necessary safety precautions for either of our leaders. That means I must employ additional measures to protect you both now. What happens on White Star 14 is no one else's business and I mean to keep it that way."

Kesha absolutely refused to say another word on the subject. She sat silently and met Talia's penetrating gaze head on. She might not be willing to say more, but Kesha felt complete justification for her actions and would not back down from them.

Talia was shocked. There was not a shred of doubt in her mind that Kesha was referring to Susan's Shadow ambush when she spoke of the phenomenon. What she couldn't figure out was what would make her go to such lengths now. That happened months ago. She went over all the recent changes trying to find a better explanation than the one she just got. Yes, the crew was aware of their trips down to the planet and had to have put it together that they were hiding out at Sigma 957 but they've been back for 2 weeks. [Something else has happened. This is about Fannol! They don't want anyone to know what's going on and they're concerned I'll have either the same reaction or something close. What's going on with him?]

Talia narrowed her eyes at Kesha before speaking,

"White Star 14 discusses things with White Star 3."

"Not anymore." [Take that anyway you choose but keep it to yourself.]

This made Talia sit up and stare. She could not imagine what could have happened to cause her to shut out White Star 3. That means they don't want even Susan to know. [No, that means Fannol doesn't even want Susan to know and they are backing his play. I am certain he didn't tell them so she must have picked up on it. This can't be about anything other than Kosh!]

Talia was quiet for several minutes as she sat back in her chair with her eyes closed. Kesha could tell she was warring internally with what she just put together.

[Yes, he does not want Ivanova to know at this time. But, I don't want you to know about his trips to the Vorlon's ship either unless you agree to be silent. And I don't want Fannol feeling like he has to go there just to work through this in peace.]

Talia wasn't comfortable with this to some degree. Then she considered that she wouldn't have given Stephen the report on Fannol being hit with Light if he hadn't given his permission first even though Susan was sitting right there. Talia was almost sure that when she did find out—cause its hard to keep anything from her—Susan wouldn't be mad. [Hopefully]

"I understand." Then she let her expression show just how much she understood.

Satisfied that they'd managed to get through all the difficult issues she turned to something else.

"You have also been assigned permanent private quarters on board. They are there if and when you choose to use them even when we are in station orbit."

[And the hits keep coming.]

"Why?" Talia's sick of this question herself but hopes it'll give her the most information.

"Because you are a member of our crew."

Hopes dashed, she merely nods. At that, Kesha excused herself to face the dragon.

After Talia thought about it, having permanent quarters assigned to her now was a good thing. With Stephen's travel embargo in effect, she didn't want to have to explain things later. None of this stopped her from worrying about Fannol. Then she considered how she'd revealed herself with the Drazi ship and figured this was their way of letting her know they would keep silent. She also thought this had something to do with her going to White Star 2 instead of coming on board their ship. It made her feel good that they were trying to make sure she knew she was welcome there at all times.

Kesha decided that she would take the heat from Fannol so that Dulann could come in a smooth things over. She was pretty sure he wouldn't just accept things the way Talia did. She was also not counting on him appreciating her visiting Garibaldi without speaking to him first. [What's done is done. I can't change it now.] Her major concern was that her actions would drive him farther away from the ship or force him into hibernation. The time came for her to suck it up and take it like a woman,

"Fannol, if you have a few minutes I need to go over some reports with you."

Thankful that she caught him in one of the corridors [ok, I planned it like this] so that he would be more inclined to head toward his office, she fell in step with him. Once she was seated she figured she'd start with the bribe then squish all the things she was sure he wouldn't like in between a couple of good things. She hadn't figured out how to spin anything she was going to report so that he would consider them good things but she was ready to give it a try. She reached into her cloak and pulled out a device about the size of a communications links and handed it to him without a word. Fannol studied it closely but had no idea what it was.

"What is this?"

"It is a secured device which allows you to disable any security camera on board this ship. I am the only one with the codes. They are preprogrammed in there. Each of those buttons are for certain areas on the ship. For instance, the green one is for the garden. Blue is for the shuttle bay...."

Then she stopped and looked at him with her most innocent and disarming expression. Fannol wasn't buying it.

"Uh huh. And you are giving this to me now because?"

"You are Shok'na." Kesha knew that was the least helpful and least relevant answer she could have given but she really hadn't planned on him asking that question right off the bat. She'd hoped that he'd ask later so that she'd have something to tie her answer to. Since she didn't she remained silent and went back to the innocent look.

Fannol wasn't impressed by that answer but figured he wouldn't get a better one anytime soon so he let it slide—for now. Deep down he knew where this was going. And he knew that the reports she wanted to give were all going to be about him. Fine. He liked the device so he set it down and waited.

"Next?"

She took his acceptance as the best thing she was going to get. The way he kept glancing at it made her think he was alright about it. She also knew he saw right through her.

"Hear me out completely on this next issue."

[Yes, I am definitely not going to like what she has to say.] "Alright."

"I assigned you a permanent shuttle and 2 pilots this morning. One will be available 24 hours a day. I also met with Mr. Garibaldi, in the strictest of confidence, and arranged for you to shuttle directly into any bay that you choose if you choose. The pilots have been given authorization to land in certain ones that require security codes to access because they happen to be private."

Both of them see the holes in her attempt at misdirection since a shuttle would not land in any of the major docking bays. They are also aware that the only private bay he would be landing in is Kosh's. He lets that slide permanently because neither wants to get into it.

"Uh huh."

Kesha isn't sure how to take that but since he's silent and continues to stare at her she knows he's waiting for the rest.

"The only station personnel who know that you have those codes or the authority to land in a bay requiring them is Mr. Garibaldi and he will not be monitoring access. The only members of this crew who are aware of this are you, me, your pilots, Dulann and your security detail." Then she clams up quick.

Fannol is listening to the things she does not say and clearly hears that Susan and Captain Sheridan will not be made aware of this information. He is relieved by that but knows that she and Dulann guessed he is keeping his current condition a secret from Susan. Then he hears the last thing.

"My security detail?"

"Yes." [Do you have to ask so many questions???]

"Since when do I have a security detail?"

"Since this morning."

"And I have a security detail because?"

"You are Shok'na."

Even Kesha sees the gaping holes in that logic but hopes he won't press. Fannol stares at her for a full minute. She is determined to meet his eye and not turn away because she knows that she will loose him on this if she does.

"How many persons make up this security detail?"

With more relief than she shows,

"Three."

"Uh huh."

By now Kesha is getting tired of this response and wishes he wouldn't be so unlike a Minbari at times. [I know this is Ivanova's influence!] But, she prefers to answer questions rather than provide information freely so she waits. Fannol most definitely sees through this but he also understands that this is all a part of her attempts to make his life easier and to make him feel more comfortable on the ship. That part he has no problem with. His concern is why she feels it necessary to assign him permanent guards—and he is absolutely sure they are here to stay. He does not ask her that question because he really doesn't feel like hearing that he is Shok'na. He is very much aware he is the captain and doesn't need her to keep repeating it.

"Is there anything else I should know?"

"Probably." She couldn't help it and that slipped out unintentionally. Realizing her mistake, she glances up and tries to slap on the innocent look but she can't muster it up so she just stares blankly until he presses.

"What else should I know?" [Is that open ended enough for you?]

"As Chief Tactical Officer [I'm getting tired of prefacing everything with that for deflection] it is my responsibility to insure the safety of both this ship and each member of the crew. All security arrangements will stay secure."

He hears the opening she's giving him and decides to throw her a bone.

"How will you accomplish that?"

"By insuring that all security and other matters are only discussed between you, myself and Dulann, as your First Officer."

He wants to make her say it.

"And supplemental reports will be filed with?"

[He's going to make me say it. Fine]

"There will be no supplemental reports, sir. All matters of operation, security, and those pertaining to personnel for White Star 14 are the sole concern of White Star 14."

"Uh huh."

[Damn, will you stop saying that?] Fannol can tell he's driving her crazy with the uh huhs but really doesn't care. He'll also let that go. She was very clear on the unspoken meaning so he accepts it.

"Is there anything else?"

"Plenty, sir."

"Since I do not have a copy of your list, pick something to start with and don't stop talking until you've covered everything on it."

Kesha couldn't hide her wince but knew she deserved it. Taking a deep breath she spilled all.

By the time she finished, Fannol had a pretty good idea just what she and Dulann had figured out. He had no clue how they came to that conclusion but since he could not deny it, he wouldn't press. Other than protecting his privacy, he had the distinct impression that Kesha, at least, had some specific concern for his physical safety. Initially, he wanted her to clarify her reasons for including Talia in this but dismissed that. First, he did not want to hear her say that Talia was a member of the crew because he was pretty sure that was the reason she gave Talia. Second, he wasn't sure either of them were up for discussing it.

"Is there anything else?"

"Perhaps. I have not done so yet, but I am considering instituting certain landing restrictions in our shuttle bay."

"Why? And please do not remind me that I am Shok'na. I am aware of that fact."

"Because it is a potential security measure that would enhance those already in place or being contemplated."

Fannol just looks at her. Kesha knows that was, without a doubt, the worst answer she's given anybody the entire day but she also doesn't care. She's strongly considering it. The only thing stopping her is that she does not want to call too much attention to the ship. She has nothing else to give him so she just shrugs. [Yeah, I know it was a lame circular answer but what do you want from me?]

He resolves that he will not ask for anything else on the subject. He does not want to know what else she is contemplating until it is actually necessary to know.

"I accept the results of your discussion with Mr. Garibaldi. I appreciate your efforts. However, in the future you should discuss such things with me first. "

Kesha knew that was the best she was going to get. She knew Fannol wouldn't risk too much in the way of a compliment because he had definite fears she would take it as a stamp of approval and carte blanc to go further. She could live with that.

So far, Vir was pretty pleased with the way things were working out. He was initially able to assemble a group of young people about his age from the working class. He would not trust anyone working in or around the palace and decided that he alone would gather any information from there that was necessary. They met in absolute secrecy in the basement of a coffee house on the outskirts of the city. Someone had gotten the idea from one of the 20th century Earth fads. It was not popular among any Centauri because of its dark and smoky atmosphere. No emphasis was placed on hair or clothes and there was absolutely no social restrictions. Basically, it was an abomination.

But for some of the younger generation, those who were considered out casts of culture, it was a major hit. Writers, poets, free thinkers all gathered around in the evenings discussing various topics from art, literature, music, inter galactic peace, and politics. That last one was a major topic among those who frequented the place. None of them seemed to have the least bit of appreciation for the current form of government or the strange rate of expansion that occurred over the last year. None of them supported the Republic's policy with against the Narns. And all of them were ripe for the picking. What surprised and pleased Vir was that all of the ones he chose could pass as human. It was a new fad, well it hadn't actually caught on enough to become a fad but it was close enough. Men were wearing their hair short like Vir in such a way that it was simple to comb it down to blend in with others. The major shocker was that the women were actually growing their hair! All of it. Some opted for short styles but sure enough, every single woman in the group had a full head of hair. It was the ultimate symbol of rebellion and they were proud of it. Vir had spent so much time around human females and so little time around Centauri females over the past few years, he really didn't care one way or the other anymore. The thing that he did care about was that when he needed to send one of them as a courier, they could blend in.

Vir first made contact with the owner and manager the day he snuck out of the palace after G'Kar's escape. He really wasn't making a huge profit but he really didn't care. It was his dream business and his home was above the bar so he kept the hours he liked. Initially, Tafali was suspicious of Vir once he learned whom he worked for and what he did. They talked enough that trust was established and Tafali was satisfied that Vir wasn't one of Cartagia's spies. So far, censorship on a wide scale hadn't been enacted within the Republic, but everyone knew not to question the Emperor if they wished to live long. Vir brought in one of his cousins who was studying at the University and he brought his girlfriend. Neither of their parents held much hope for either of them since they seemed determined not to embrace the ideals or new growth of the Republic. The two of them recruited more of those from school and their social class that they knew thought as Vir did and would be committed. By the time they were ready to get started Vir had 65 Centauri assembled. Once they were all together, Vir knew they would have to be made aware of the general threat of the Shadows' return before getting down to business and that meant a history lesson that would contradict typical Centauri education standards. He was pleasantly surprised that some of them knew exactly what was going on 'out there' and more than a few were suspicious about what was going on at home.

That's when he told them about the Rangers, Babylon 5, and the fighting efforts of the League of Non Aligned Worlds. They were more than surprised. Information such as this was not broadcast throughout the Republic. He told them of the last Shadow war and the Minbari role in it. He talked of both Valen's prophecy of their return and G'Quon's charge to the Kha'Ri. He also brought recordings of Ivanova's address to the League, footage from the Fleet's engagement with the Shadows, and the recording of Sheridan's return speech in the Zocolo that Shanmal brought back for him. They were floored, inspired, and motivated. Then Vir hit them with the biggest bomb of their lives. He explain just how the Republic was financing its return to their glory days and who these 'friends of the Republic' really where. They were all quiet and more than a few were ill.

But then, he gave them hope. He told them things about their past. He gave them a history of ancient Centauri and beliefs held then by a stronger more enlightened people. Vir shared how these teachings and principles were the foundation they needed to defeat the Shadows and drive them from their world. They were all eager to learn more and signed on immediately. Then he told them that he had friends who would also be of assistance to them and that together they would succeed. The one thing Vir did not tell them initially was that his cousin was also a telepath and had scanned each and everyone of them before he opened his mouth and shared a single thing. Vir Cotto might play the role of the idiot, but he was not stupid.

Tafali thought they needed telepaths and Vir was relieved that someone other than himself brought that up. The group was enlarged by 30 more, each of them telepaths and each of them ready and willing to scan their hearts out to get the information they would most need to get to work. They were educated, enlightened, trained, and entertained. Vir revived the long forgotten and dead religious order of those charged to uphold the Light and prepare their people for the greatest change the universe had ever known. He took it a step further when he incorporated the ideals he learned from Minbari, Human, and Narn history. This enabled the others to see concrete examples of the great work of the Universe and the fulfillment of things prophesied by Centauri ancients millennia ago. What Vir did not realize was that he was fulfilling prophecy in doing so. Nor did he realize that he was expected and that others were waiting for him.

Vir taught them all the skills he had managed to pick up over the years. But some of them had skills as well and that is were they found the balance. Vir wanted everyone to feel like they contributed to the direction the group was going. They learned their history and they studied everything they could find on the Shadows and the last war. They also considered how Centauri had gotten into this position and were not pleased. They watched the recording of the Light being fighting something hideous on Babylon 5. They needed nothing else to in grain the seriousness of the situation in them. They each understood the price for abandoning the past in favor of the superficial and ridiculous society they became. That is when their hearts and minds truly embraced their faith and their spiritual roots. It was rebirth and renewal. They were once individuals disconnected, by choice, from the greater Centauri society but together they found a purpose and a home.

Learning the reason Vir finally called him to Centauri Prime was another eye opener and wake up call for Malcolm. Malcolm and Shanmal had been sure that Vir was going to do as much information gathering and research as he could and then call in the Rangers to help him. It made the most sense. It wasn't even close to what he found. He could not believe that Vir was the leader of a group of trained and committed Centauri from some religious Order preparing to fight the Shadows. Malcolm was very curious and wanted to find out when Vir became part of this and how long it was going on. He wondered if this was the reason for his secret assignment on Minbar that they still never got answers on. Vir gave no details on anything. Even when his group moved openly, he did not want anyone finding out how long he was involved in it. It would be revealed one day, but the time was not right. There were several things Malcolm immediately picked up on once he saw Vir's living arrangements: those at the palace think he's on Babylon 5, those who sent him to Minbar think he's in Yedor, and no one knows he's really on Centauri Prime.

While he watched Vir outline a strategy for gathering all the information they could get their hands on, organize security measures for passing that information along to others in the group, set up contact points and communication codes, and assign tasks, he was amazed at the skills he saw in practice. Malcolm watched, surprised that they were trained in sophisticated methods of covert operations and recognizance. They were preparing for some scouting missions to verify the exact location of the Shadow fleet. But the one thing that always made Malcolm sit up a little straighter and pay close attention was listening to Vir speak. He was impassioned and captivating in a Centauri way. He knew his enemy, he knew the risks and what was truly at stake, and he knew that none of them could forget that.

After Malcolm joined them, he discussed the Rangers in greater detail than Vir. Most of them were surprised to learn of the close relationship forged between the humans and Minbari in light of the war just 10 years ago. A few of them started speculating on what that could mean for Centauri and Narns. While Vir was very pleased that they started making that connection, he had to pull them all back to the current threat. They had come far in the last few months, but they had a long road ahead of them.

The day of G'Kar's escape was hectic all around. Vir wrapped up his first meeting with Tafali with a plan for returning to Centauri Prime secretly so they could start recruiting as quickly as possible. He knew he would have to return to the palace soon because he did not want Londo wondering where he ran off. He also did not want to raise any suspicion with his absence. It was chaos. On his return, Vir learned that Londo had left the palace about an hour after he did. Subsequent checking confirmed that he was visiting Timov. [Things must be getting bad for Londo to do that.] He counted it as a blessing because it gave him more time to nose around and he was able to gather some interesting information about Londo from snooping around in his suite. Nothing that would raise any red flags or cause him to be exposed but enough to give Vir an understanding of exactly what Londo had discovered. He wished he could inform him of the true extent of their alliance with the Shadows but Vir did not trust him.

He did not trust Londo not to find a side angle to work for himself. A few more stops around the palace and a highly informative visit to the kitchen gave him the rest of Londo's plan. Vir had to roll his eyes in disdain once he put the pieces together and figured out just how Londo had planned to get rid himself of Refa, Cartagia and the Shadows. Vir was certain that plan never would have worked. Malcolm had already brought word of Delenn's ban on Ranger activity within the Republic except for his group and had to smile at her assistance.

"Ah, I see you have managed to stay out of trouble. Tell me Vir, while I was gone you weren't compelled to throw yourself on the Emperor again were you?"

Vir was pretty sure that Londo had some suspicions about him but had put them aside. He was determined not to do or say anything to raise them again. Stumbling, mumbling, and bumbling, Vir turned to Londo,

"I... it...things happened so fast. Before I knew it, I... oh boy Londo I messed up again didn't I?"

Londo Mollari stood silently and took in Vir's disheveled appearance. [No, it's the same old reliable and stupid Vir. I am getting as paranoid as the humans.]

"Technically, no. You still have your head. But if you wish to keep it, I suggest you pack and leave immediately."

Vir's pretty much doing mental cartwheels at this point but adopts a confused and hurt expression.

"You're sending me away. That means I did mess up and you're trying to spare my feelings again."

"Nonsense! I'm sending you away because just before I arrived someone managed to do the unthinkable. They reminded Cartagia that G'Kar escaped."

"Uh oh."

"Uh oh. Is right. When you leave, don't go through the garden. It isn't a pretty sight. Since you managed to not be inconspicuous during the escape, the Emperor might remember you. And forget your assistance in trying to save his life."

"Oh."

"Yes. He's in a foul mood. He's screaming at the top of his lungs and anyone who catches his eye might loose theirs."

"Like G'Kar."

That made Londo stop and turn around to look at Vir. Vir just shrugged and said,

"Well, he already knows the process works, he might try it again." This made Londo laugh and Vir relax.

"Yes, yes. You are correct. So, if you'd like to keep both your eyes and your head I suggest you leave immediately."

"Ok. But will you be needing me anytime soon? Do you just want me to leave the palace or leave Centauri Prime?"

Londo Mollari didn't need a minute to consider that question. Once he thought of all that would happen that day and the next, as well as, the time he'd need to construct a new plan and add G'Kar's name to his list he knew.

"Leave Centauri space and do not return until I call you. And I can promise you that I won't be calling anytime soon."

Then he turned to look at his intellectually challenged but kind hearted aide sadly,

"Vir, things are changing around us. The Republic is changing. The galaxy is changing. Go back to Minbar and continue as you were. It's a nice place, yes?"

"Yes. Its very pretty and I am learning to paint in my free time."

Neither Londo nor Vir comment on the fact that all his time on Minbari is technically free time since he has no real work to do.

"Good. Painting is good. Minbar is good. I think it suits you. I have heard that some of the rural areas are quite majestic. Nothing as great as those in the Republic, of course, but relaxing and peaceful. Should you wish to take a vacation from your assignment, I strongly recommend that you travel on and around Minbar only. The people are a bit too reserved and rigid for my taste but I think it is good for you. It is a good place for you to settle down and call home. Permanently."

Vir heard every single thing that Londo said and did not say. It touched him deeply that even though Londo thought him too stupid to know about the Centauri's alliance with the Shadows, he was trying to shield him from it by exiling him to the one place in the galaxy he felt the Dark hand of the Shadows could not reach.

"Well, I always want to be helpful and of service to you Londo but I guess I can do that from Minbar."

"Good. Now hurry and pack and leave this place in the next 15 minutes. And in the name of the Great Maker, DON'T let Cartagia or any of the others see you. They'll be just as happy to offer up your head in place of their own. Go."

With that Vir turned and left. Londo didn't have to tell him twice. He never unpacked his bags because he thought he might have to leave in a hurry. He was off the palace grounds in less than 10 minutes. From there he took the first flight he could get off the planet and headed back to Minbar to check in with the others. What Londo did not know was that Vir only stayed on Minbar one day, then headed back to Centauri Prime.

Tafali had Vir move into one of the apartments above the coffee house and nightclub he was running. Both felt that was a good idea because it would cut down on his movements during the daylight hours. It also made sense because the basement was turned into their headquarters. Both Vir and Tafali were initially concerned that there would be some internal problems based on class or money issues but there weren't. Each of them felt they were all working for the same goal and that meant they were all equal. It didn't hurt that those from titled families were just as happy to spend their allowance on supplies for the group as they were on themselves. That was a major upside to the expansion and everybody knew it. They were able to purchase many different surveillance and recording devices as well pay for the supplies that were necessary to run the headquarters. They needed ways of communicating with each other. They needed money for travel and they needed to finance scouting expeditions.

They learned their history. They knew their enemy. They embraced and practiced their faith. They trained and were committed. But, they were still lacking something. They were suppose to head out into dangerous situations and they would need some way of defending themselves. Energy weapons would not do. First, they would be picked up on any sensor they passed through. Firing one would draw too much attention to themselves. And, the cost of dealing with arms brokers just to get the weapons quietly would eat into their finances. This is where the Rangers came in. Malcolm brought two other Rangers with him, Lydia and Adam. They taught the group how to fight. Denn'boks could be made easily by those craftsman workers in the group at their respective plants quietly without anyone knowing it. For many of those from the upper class, it was the first real fighting any of them ever did. They got hurt a great deal. But they learned. For the others, it was just as alien and they got hurt and bruised just as much. But they learned.

Malcolm was getting to understand Vir more and more. This wasn't just about freeing Narns and driving the Shadows from their world. Vir was looking to the future. He had no desire to dismantle the Republic. He wanted to breath new life into it. Help his people see options other than obsessing over the long dead "great" past. Vir was certain that if they did not let that go, they would die as a people. Or run themselves into the ground. He wanted their group to grow into something that would help others see that uplifting the soul was just as important if not more so than uplifting the flag. That they did not have to conquer, enslave, or dominate in order to grow.

Vir was certain that deep inside, each Centauri had everything they needed to be great. Material and military weren't the be all and end all. He did not see anything wrong with financial independence or wealth if that is what the person had. He felt that obsessing over the acquisition of it to the point that a person was willing to sell their soul to the devil to get it was the problem. If they doubted that, all they need do was review some of the information gathered in many of their reports. These were some of the things he talked about to the others when they were working in headquarters from time to time. These quiet words were not lost on Lydia or Adam. They saw a thinking man. Someone who was also trying to inspire growth through change. They had to respect that and they did.

In addition to his Resistance activities, Vir was still killing off Narns and getting them to safety. He finally let the group in on his work and to say they were impressed was an understatement. Vir's credibility shot through the roof but he really never understood why. He just figured it was the right thing to do, he could do it, so he did.

Vir felt that the time had come to bring one other person into the loop because the freed Narns would need someone to guide them. Or at least act as a contact person. Most of all, Vir and the Rangers held secret hopes that those Narns would help fight the Shadows anyway they could. Vir was not comfortable with Malcolm, Lydia or Adam moving about too much. He feared something would happen to them or that they would get caught trying to slip back in. No objection from any of them. They held the same fears. And they had reason after learning what happened to their fellows on Earth and Mars. That chilled Vir to the bone. He felt personally responsible for these Rangers and did not want to have to explain to Delenn what he allowed to happen to them. That was why he decided that it was time for one of his order to leave the group and begin making contact with the others on Babylon 5.

The names, locations, numbers, and dates of arrival for all the freed Narns were copied on triple encrypted data crystals for transport. This was Vir's biggest fear and nightmare. If that information got into the wrong hands, the Narns really would be killed. A self destruct sequence was embedded onto each crystal. Failing to give the correct password the first time would permanently erase everything and the crystal would be fried. Vir had to be sure that his courier would be able to work with as many Narns as were present to share the information and hammer out the logistics. Selene was selected to go. She had worked with Vir learning the process and understood all areas of the operation. She spoke Narn, Minbari, Interlac, Drazi and English. She was also a telepath. Selene grew up working on a merchant trading ship with her uncle and had an extensive amount of contact with many different races. That was the reason she had such distaste for the current Centauri occupation of Narn and enslavement of its people. She'd worked and played with more than a few of them growing up and she had absolutely no problem socializing with any of them.

Selene knew her way around and knew how to get around. She was a skilled pilot and trader at the ripe old age of 23. And she never went anywhere without a way out and a means of getting to it. She was an excellent shooter and she was so—efficient with a knife it scared most of them. But that she was lethal with the denn'bok surprised everyone and the others had to ask her how she took to it so easily.

"I was a young girl traveling on a merchant trading ship with my uncle. He was the captain but he couldn't always be with me. I HAD to learn various ways to fight in order to protect myself. Besides, I don't really look that tough and most guys thought I was easy prey. It was a way to survive."

Nobody had a problem with that answer. Adam had to admit she was the prettiest Centauri he'd ever seen. Lydia said he only thought that because she had all her hair. Long jet black hair.

"Maybe, maybe not. But you gotta admit, she's a looker." Lydia and Malcolm laughed,

"I think you've been spending too much time helping them research Earth history. Looker?"

"Whatever!"

Knowing the situation Selene would be walking into, Vir and Malcolm took the time to compose cryptic updates and letters of introduction for her and downloaded them onto separate data crystals. None of them wanted her to have any problems and all of them knew she would most likely be out of contact for some time. Malcolm took more time and energy composing a second vid for Michael Garibaldi since Selene would be traveling with false identity and credit chits. Just in case she was caught by station security, he wanted her to have a way out. It wouldn't do for her to be locked up in a holding cell where she couldn't complete her assignment or deported to Earth since she wasn't even human.

By the time Selene was ready to head out on her first mission, her fellows had created a uniform for her to wear. They could not have her out in full company of others representing them without the proper attire, they joked. Sincerely, they hoped it would help her to feel some connection to them since she would be all alone for perhaps some time. She was touched by that at the going away party. Well, their version of a going away party because it really was a ceremony. They reached back to their ancient and forgotten past and performed the Rite of Initiate for the Order of Z'al. Long before the days of the Centauri Republic as it stands today, long before the time of an emperor and class distinction, they were simply one people.

Z'al was the name of the one blessed by a Light being. She taught them unification as a people and as parts of the Universe's whole. She taught them about the symmetry, balance and harmony of the Universe and within the universe. She was one people, one song. She was a seer and a prophetess. And she taught them the importance of preventing the death of their souls. Their symbol looks exactly like a Triquetra from Earth's Celtic shores. This looping soft sided triangular shaped figure had a circle superimposed on it. It represented the equal weight of calling, purpose, and destiny. It symbolized the mind, spirit and soul. The circle represented the Universe. They fashioned the symbol into a broach. It was not an ornate piece of jewelry, nor was it made from any precious metal or decorated with gems or stones. They each felt the burden of the Centauri arrogance and ostentatiousness. They saw exactly where that led their race. This simple broach was made from a translucent blue metal that was indigenous only to Centauri Prime and considered worthless by their people. Therefore, it was abundant and free. To Selene and the others it was the most beautiful thing they'd ever seen. To them, it represented their salvation and hope for the future.

Adam, Lydia and Malcolm had to admit that they were extremely curious about this group and their true purpose. They knew their name and were told their general spiritual beliefs and philosophy. They also learned the meaning behind their symbol and were amazed. They were stunned at their depth and the parallels they saw. They did not know anything about Centauri ancient history or religion. None of them considered that the Centauri were anything other than what they saw.

Their uniform was jet black. Actually everything they had was black except the broach and their fighting pike. The material was all weather and all purpose. The fabric was well insulated to help the body adjust to various temperatures. Centauri did not like to be too hot or too cold if they could help it. The color was also necessary for helping them move under the cover of darkness. The others would not be wearing theirs now because it was not time to move openly but when they did, they would be prepared. The robes were designed to be simple with as little fan fair as possible. The threading trimming the collar, the entire length of the each side of the folds, and around the cuffs was the same color as the metal. The emblem of Z'al was embroidered on the left sleeve. A plain hooded cloak completed the ensemble. They all felt the hoods were extremely necessary for the women because of their hair. Both the cloak and the robes were lined with hidden compartments for concealing anything from data crystals, vid cams, or weapons. They would be ready.

Their weapon was very different from the Minbari. They called it Ket'las. An ancient Centauri word that meant, 'an extension of my soul' because if they had to use it, they knew they would be fighting for their existence. Basically, it was the same theory of a fighting pike with a collapsible handle but it was obviously unique and not a copy of the denn'bok. The metal and color was different as well. It was the same as their broach. It was stronger than titanium and lighter than tin foil. That was the scientific mystery. No one knew how or why, but they took it as a blessing and moved on. It had a lever that allowed for a hidden blade to be released at the end if necessary. It was sharpened at the tip to a razor fine edge and they could and would kill with it. Not a few of them suspected they would be aiming them at some Shadows or Keepers before this war ended. Their true mission and purpose was engraved in ancient Centauri script on the handle. In addition to that was a tribute to their oneness in the modern language. That was also engraved on the broach for all to see:

We live as one, we fight as one, we survive as one, we die as one. We are Z'al.

Selene was nervous as she approached Babylon 5. She'd never been to the station before but spent many hours memorizing the layout while preparing for her trip. She knew who she was to meet and who she was to stay away from. She was prepared. Nevertheless, she understood how important this was and would not fail Vir. All the hard work that he'd put into the rescue and relief effort for the Narns became just as important to her as it was to him. One part of her wished that she could have stayed and helped the others prepare for their attack on both the Shadows and those who had agreed to serve them but this was the assignment she was given and she was determined to do her absolute best. She would not fail Vir and the others. She also knew that she would be the contact person for Z'al on the station. Information had to move and when he felt the time was right, Vir would have her meet with the War Council and provide them with the information they would need to help fight the Shadows as well.

Because he had lived and worked with all those on the Council, Vir was able to provide her with an extensive biography of each of them except their newest member who joined after he left. He went far beyond simple names, dates and places. He included personal observations and a few pieces of sensitive information in case she should need to leverage her way out of a situation. He also cautioned her that there would be two people who would cause her the most trouble if their organization was to remain secret on Centauri Prime. Marcus Cole and Michael Garibaldi would hound and follow her until they got every single detail. Vir warned her that they were very cunning and very shrewd. They would also desperately want to know what he has been up to for the last year. He provided the most likely approaches to dealing with either of them and warned her that Cole was also a telepath so she would need to keep her guard up just in case he decided to gather information more efficiently. She memorized that as well.

After clearing customs without a problem, Selene took a indirect route and headed down below. That was her kind of place. Before she revealed herself to those she came to meet, she wanted to have the lay of the land. Selene never went anywhere without a way out and a means to use it. She wore her cloak over her uniform and pulled the hood over her head. Yeah, she knew that would draw some attention to her, but it was better that she see others before they saw her. Part of their uniform included black fitted gloves as well. She slipped those on as soon as she got away from the main area. No sense leaving any DNA or finger prints around for people to trace. They didn't need to know she was Centauri until she told them.

Selene took several hours drifting in and out of various bars and establishments. She verified hiding places and all the different exits she could find. Then she studied the lurkers. People never noticed the invisible people. That's why they're invisible. Selene wanted to see how they were dressed and the way they moved or interacted in case she needed to become one. She lowered her shields and kept watch for anyone following or observing her too closely. Malcolm had already alerted her that the station was crawling with Rangers, hidden and open, and that she would have to be careful when making any deals because they were always somewhere watching. They wouldn't talk outside the Rangers, but they would probably pass the knowledge around quickly. She was ready for that. Once she met her contact, she pretty much figured she'd be revealed. Neither Vir nor Malcolm had a recommendation for the right time to pass on the data crystals. Obviously, if she were caught at customs she'd have to reveal herself to Garibaldi. She had a message for the one called Entil'Zha Delenn. After learning of and studying about Valen, Selene had to admit she was more than a little curious about this person. And of course she wanted to meet the one who returned from Z'ha'dum! She heard him speak. She heard Ivanova speak of him. Selene watched those recordings until she had them memorized. [Yes, there is great work happening among those here.]

Once she felt comfortable with down below and certain that no one had followed or observed her too closely, she returned to the main area to arrange for a place to stay. They had funds and she was given a large account balance on her credit chit but Selene never believed in spending more than was absolutely necessary. She secured the most economical quarters available that would not draw any attention to herself or her purpose on the station. The clerk was a bit surprised that she spent a considerable amount of time selecting the perfect spot only to choose something away from the main attractions. She didn't want to be in the center of activity and she didn't want to be near security. She wanted to be close to as many exits and escape routes as possible. And she wanted options. Confident that she had still remained undetected, she headed to her quarters. Once inside she searched the place throughly. She looked for the best places to hide certain items she managed to slip through security and she needed hiding places for the information she would be gathering and preparing to send.

Finally, she checked for any type of surveillance cameras or recording devices. It wasn't very likely that there would be any, but she checked anyway. Secure in that, she moved on to securing her quarters. The entry pad and wiring for the lock had to be adjusted. She could not do that out in the hallway so it took well over an hour to strip part of the wall and get in from inside her quarters. Extensive checks and double checks before she left confirmed that Babylon 5 did not rig individual quarters so that station security would be alerted to adjustments made to the lock. Then she place a secure cam and audio recording device strategically within her quarters that would activate anytime she left. She would know if someone got in while she was gone.

After a quick shower, nap and change of uniform Selena was ready to go to work. She wasn't sure how to go about making contact. Intelligence reports stated that he had body guards and that no one could get near him. The body guards were to protect him from Centauri and she was pretty sure that after what he'd gone through at Cartagia's hands, he would suspect her as the assassin. Or his body guards would. Everyone warned her that strange and unusual things happened on the station so she was alert for this as well. After seeing nothing too strange, she assumed it was an off day. Her stroll through the station and Zocolo gave her more of a sense of surroundings and a chance to make up her mind. Her first thought was to head straight for Delenn but she didn't want to expose herself to the Rangers immediately. After thinking for some time, she figured she should head to security and check in with Mr. Garibaldi. It was the only way she would get close enough to G'Kar. Since none of them knew what Vir was up to, and she was not authorized to inform anyone but G'Kar, she prepared herself for his skepticism and perhaps refusal to help her get near enough to give him the messages.

Entering security, she went straight to his office without hesitation. She let her shields down and was prepared to listen to every single random thought in his head to help her through this meeting. Vir already told her he could be tricky and he would be difficult. She just had to figure out which data crystal she would give him. Malcolm's did not mention Vir or their work on Centauri Prime but he already told her that Garibaldi knew they were up to something. Their hope was that he would assume she was either a Ranger undercover or a random human assisting the others. But she was prepared for him to assume she was a Centauri passing as a human. That kind of irritated her. The only thing that would cause people to say that is because she does not shave her head. Well Selene had never done that. She did not grow up in the Republic, she grew up in space. And she wasn't one of the upper class or a member of one of the noble families. She had no reason to do so. Then she put her self righteous indignation in check when she considered that she was traveling on false papers that clearly claimed her to be human. [Oh, well]

"Mr. Garibaldi?"

"Yeah." [Who are you and what have you done?]

"May I speak with you in private?"

"Sure." With that, Garibaldi activated his recording device.

While she took a seat, Selene discretely activated her own counter surveillance jamming device. Both Vir and Malcolm warned her that he would record their meeting if he was suspicious. The very fact that someone unknown to him walked into his office made him suspicious. Now Garibaldi was ticked. This was the second time someone waltzed into his office and rendered his measures inoperable. He'd forgotten to get with Kesha to find out where she got hers. Now this one comes in and does the same thing. He was not happy and he let it show.

"I assume you wanted a very private word with me, miss?"

"Selene."

"Miss. Selene."

"No, its just Selene."

"Fine. Selene." [Answer the question or I'm tossing you out.]

"I did want to speak with you in private. That is, if you have a few moments."

"Yeah, go ahead. What's this about?"

"I brought you a message."

He's not liking this. At first he thought she was a Ranger. Out of uniform, but she definitely moves like one. He saw how she cased the place and the jamming device was a dead give away. Watching everything and prepared for anything. But she wasn't or she would have said so by now. And he didn't like not being able to see her face under that hood.

"A message? From whom?"

She reaches into the hidden compartment in her cloak and pulls out a data crystal. Without a word she passes it to him and waits.

[Ok, so its like that.]

The smiling face of Malcolm pops on the screen and Garibaldi has to laugh. [Guess she is a Ranger or one in training probably.]

"Mr. Garibaldi, sorry for the bit of mystery but you can't be too careful around that station. Everyone knows strange things happen on a daily basis there. Anyway, I wanted to introduce you to Selene. She's a courier and has several messages to pass on to a couple of your friends. Well, one of them is your friend, the other is my boss. Your assistance is greatly appreciated. Gotta go."

And the screen went blank.

"That's it? All the secrecy and security. Why does he need me to help you get a message to Entil'Zha?"

"I'm not certain but I believe that was Malcolm's way of asking you not to interfere." She laughs.

Garibaldi had to laughed at that,

"Ok. He's got me on that. I'm assuming its not Delenn that you need me to 'not interfere' with."

Selene immediately picks up that he suspects she's a Ranger. Since he didn't ask her and didn't share his mistake she does not consider it misdirection if she does not correct him. Malcolm told them all about misdirection. Vir taught them something better.

"Not really, sir." Then she laughs softly for his benefit and he returns it.

"I'll bite. Who am I suppose to help you with by not interfering?"

"Citizen G'Kar."

Selene feels all his warning bells go off and his guard go up. [Uh oh!]

"Why do you need to see him?"

"As Malcolm said, I have a message for him. He has security and I am unknown to him. I need to deliver the message."

This sounds reasonable to him but he still smells something isn't right.

"I'll do you one better. I'll deliver the message for you."

"I'm sure you know it doesn't work that way. I was instructed to check in with you first and then pass the message. That's it."

He does not like this. Truthfully, he has no concrete reason for not liking it. The only thing he can go on is his gut feeling that something is very wrong. He's not going to take the chance of losing G'Kar again and he wants to know what's going on. They have no information on what those Rangers are up to on Centauri Prime. Then he considers that they might be trying to warn him about any revenge Londo's planning. He can't risk not letting that information get through. He'll give her the introduction but he's not going to let her out of his sight.

[Hmm, that's not going to work Mr. Garibaldi. This information is for G'Kar alone and there is no way I'm risking all of our lives.]

Selene sits quietly thinking about how she'll get rid of him. Then she figures that she doesn't have to do all the leg work today. She can give him Vir's message and ask that he view it in private. Then all she has to do is wait around the station and he'll come to her. That should give her enough time to figure a way into seeing Delenn.

"Fine. I'll check on his location and then escort you over to him. How's that?"

"That's very helpful, sir and it makes my job a lot easier."

After checking he learns that G'Kar is in his quarters and they head over. She has no idea how she's going to give him a private message since she knows that Garibaldi speaks Narn too. Resolved, she let's it go and figures something will work itself out. Once they reach G'Kar's door she sees that she was definitely right to go to Garibaldi first. His entire detail was Narn. They would have killed her before letting her through if they suspected she was Centauri because she knows the hair is enough to signal a trap.

"G'Kar, this is Selene. She brought me a message of introduction from one of your friend's friend on Minbar. She's also got one for you."

They step inside his quarters and Garibaldi doesn't show any signs of leaving.

"I see. Well, this is interesting. What's the message?"

She produces the data crystal then glances at Garibaldi hard before turning back to G'Kar.

"Its for your eyes only, sir. You must view it from a secure location and in complete privacy." She emphasizes those last words while tilting her head toward Garibaldi then turns back to G'Kar.

"There is more depending on your response. And then I'll have a reply for you. WE will leave you now so that you can view your message." G'Kar is somewhat concerned. His friend's actions indicate that he is not satisfied with her or has some doubts. G'Kar has some suspicions of his own but his curiosity is greater. Plus, he thinks he has an idea who the message is really from. He also notices that she's wearing gloves and still holding on to the data crystal waiting for Chief Snoop to move toward the door. Its obvious she isn't going to hand it over until he leaves.

"Thank you for taking the time to bring the messenger to me. I guess I better view it now."

With one hand she reaches toward G'Kar to pass the crystal while at the same time she takes Garibaldi's arm and turns for the door. G'Kar has a hard time but hides his smile. Once at the door, Selene turns around,

"I have to go see Entil'Zha Delenn for a few moments but after that I am at your disposal." She bows slightly to G'Kar and the two leave the room.

Satisfied with what she now classifies as technical misrepresentation, she congratulates herself on completing the first part of her mission. [G'Kar was just plain curious. He didn't assume anything about me. They were right. Michael Garibaldi's going to be a problem.]

Once out in the hall, "Thank you Mr. Garibaldi. I appreciate your help. I think Malcolm would classify some part of that as interference but since he's not here, I guess he'll never know." Then she laughs and heads off toward the ambassador's section. He can't help it and laughs too.

"Two down, two to go. Unfortunately, this one's probably gonna blow my cover for sure. But, everyone says that Minbari are the masters of keeping secrets. Let's just hope Marcus Cole isn't there." She's quietly mumbling this as she heads toward Green section.

Standing in front of Delenn's door, Selene feels like she should alert someone to the lack security. They took one look at her cloak and her use of the word Entil'Zha and station security just assumed she was a Ranger and let her through. Then she remembers that is a good thing for the moment and figures she won't say anything until after she's revealed.

"I have a message for you."

Delenn is a little confused. It is a bit strange to get something by courier like this. Then she considers all of the things quietly taking place and nods for her to enter. It appears that no one is in her quarters but Selene is taking no chances. She's not saying anything other than simply delivering the message. There is no way she wants to wait around until the message is viewed because she doesn't have any hopes of being skilled enough to misdirect around this one at all.

"If you'll excuse me. I'll take my leave." Then she exits quickly. Delenn realizes that there is no reply needed so she heads over to her monitor to view it. Selene is moving as fast as she can to get away from there without drawing attention. She can't decide if she should go to her quarters or back to G'Kar's. Thinking about Garibaldi and that he'll probably have an eye out for her she opts to go back to G'Kar and wait outside his door.

He didn't know what the message would be or who it was from. He assumed the woman under the hood was human so that would most likely make her a Ranger. The message would either be about some threat of retaliation from Mollari or information on what Vir is up to. G'Kar has thought of nothing else since his return. He's made quiet and discrete inquires but since he does not know for certain he could not turn over stones and risk jeopardizing anything. This was a surprise.

"G'Kar, this recording is going to self destruct when it ends and the information will be destroyed so I hope you are comfortable and paying attention. If you are not in a secure location and alone stop viewing it now. Trust me on this." Then Vir waits a few seconds to give him time to stop it.

You've obviously met Selene. She has all the information that you'll need. She has worked on this with me and is aware of all aspects of the operation. For the last year I've been working on Minbar with the Rangers to help Narns escape from your home world, colonies and Centauri occupied territories. How we've managed to do this is something that I won't say, Selene will go over the details. So far we've manages to smuggle out about 250,000 Narns to safety. I felt it was time to bring you in on this. They need assistance that I cannot give them as a Centauri. They do not know that a Centauri is involved in this and they cannot. I'm trusting you because I know you and I know that you have your people's best interest at heart always. I haven't started funneling any groups through Babylon 5 because I did not have a contact person in place. Now I have two. Selene is one, hopefully you will be the second. I know you have your hands full with the War Council. Any assistance, guidance or suggestions you can render will be greatly appreciated.

There are a few other reasons that I've reached out to you now. Selene will go over those in more detail. She's very good. She is well trained and she's been working directly with me on this enough to know what's she's doing. But this is her first assignment away from home, so to speak. Give her a chance to give you all of the facts first. In many things your silence and discretion is required. In everything you learn from this recording and from Selene I beg you to remain silent on. There are many lives at stake. Once she explains, I think you'll understand. If she's finished with Delenn and managed to loose Mr. Garibaldi tailing her, she should be waiting outside your door now."

Vir laughs and G'Kar has to join him. After that display earlier he can see Michael Garibaldi following the young woman across the station. She obviously gave him no details. He is certain the data crystal she brought him as introduction was not from Vir but from one of his Rangers contacts who Garibaldi is familiar enough with to allow her to get as close to him as she did.

He had some suspicions in the back of his mind. And he had some hope. It was the only thing he could think of for Vir to have been working on for the last year. But he was not prepared to hear Vir Cotto say that he's freed a quarter of a million of his people! He does not know what to say. He's thankful and overwhelmed. Then he's just plain anxious for Selene to get back so he can all of the details and find out exactly what's going on. He checked with the guards. She hadn't come back yet. He instructed them to let her in as soon as she does.

"Entil'Zha, I just wanted to check in with you since the BAN is in effect and let you know that all is well. The courier already got a message to Garibaldi from me. Please let Marcus know that our special friend is taking very good care of us. We've even tried out some new fashions. I'll try to get another message out in a few weeks. Walk with Valen."

Delenn isn't sure what that was all about. He seemed in good spirits and good health. He seemed a little too cheery for someone trapped in between the bars to the very gates of hell. But she considers that this is the first message he's sent in months and is pleased that they are well. Or that he is well because no one actually knows how many Rangers are with him. She guesses it can't be more than a handful but with them, you never can tell.

"He must be enjoying his work. What could they be doing?"

When Selena comes back the guards nearly rush her and she's afraid they've somehow found out her race. Then she realizes that G'Kar was anxious to see her and left instructions for them to send her right in. [Show time. I hope he's the forgiving type.]

Once she enters the room she does not move away from the door or speak. She pulls out a jamming device and holds it up for his inspection. G'Kar is still stunned by Vir's words and merely nods from across the room. She steps into the greeting room a bit more, mainly to get away from the door so her voice won't carry to the guards, but is careful to keep her distance from him. G'Kar immediately senses this and wonders at her defensive movements then suspects why her features are hidden. When she lowers the hood from her cloak he doesn't know what's going on.

"Sir, have you watched Vir's recording?"

"Yes."

"Do you agree to remain silent about our work and his involvement?"

"Yes." He's now sure that she feels she has to get these assurances and perhaps feared he would not react kindly to her questions.

"Do you agree to remain silent on all of the things Vir referenced in the recording? The things he has directed me to share with you and you alone."

"Yes."

"My name is Selene. I am not a Ranger, nor am I human. I am Centauri."

Her heart is pounding because she has no idea how he'll react. If he'll believe or trust her, if he'll call the guards or finish the job himself. But she meets his harsh and penetrating stare with all the fire and certainty she was trained to project. She would not back down from him and simply waited for him to speak.

This was definitely a new one for G'Kar. He couldn't decide which was the bigger shock now. Vir's message had competition. A female Centauri with a full head of long hair. He sized her up and with her skin a mix between butter scotch and milk chocolate, almond colored eyes and jet black hair he realized that the hair was the only outward difference between Centauri and Human women. He couldn't find anything else. She said she wasn't a Ranger but G'Kar isn't buying that. He watched her movements and her behavior. Both in handling Garibaldi and in handling him just now. He looks into her eyes and he swears she is a Ranger so why would she lie about it?

"You say you aren't a Ranger. I don't believe you."

[Ok, of all the things I thought he'd disbelieve, that wasn't one of them.]

"I have spoken the truth, sir. I am not a Ranger."

G'Kar is all too familiar with misdirection. Perhaps she is in training and using that as an out. But he can't figure out why she'd lie about it. Unless they do not want anyone to know there is a Centauri among them but even that does not work.

"Prove it." He has absolutely no idea what he'd accept for proof of it. Nor can he explain why this one point is crucial for his understanding before they move on to any other matter. No, he most certainly wants to get all the information on Vir's operation but something tells him that this is the key that will unlock the door. He waits with arms folded across his chest.

[I knew this would happen. Just not like this or this soon.] Selene realizes that the lives of her family members are all on the line. One false step or word from G'Kar about them to the wrong person and word would get back to the wrong people at home. They could all be killed. Slowly she opens her cloak and removes it.

G'Kar had to wonder if the child was about to undress in some attempt to show she wasn't a Ranger and had no clue what was happening in front of him. Then he sees her unfamiliar dress but immediately detects that it is a uniform of some kind.

"Come closer." She does. For some reason she can't fathom she feels like a 5 year old waiting to find out if she's going to get a spanking for something she didn't do. Nevertheless, she moves across the room with confidence and strength.

He sees her broach. He reads the inscription. He starts to get some understanding but wants to know all.

"Z'al."

"Yes."

"Explain."

And she does. She gives him their ancient history explaining who Z'al was and the meaning of the broach but stops short of revealing their true mission. He picks that up and decides that is the key. He is impressed and surprised. Like the Rangers on Centauri Prime, G'Kar had no knowledge of their ancient past or that the Centauri were ever anything other than what they are.

"What is your mission and purpose?"

"To drive the Darkness from our world. To free our people from the all the various chains we created and then shackled ourselves with. To settle the debts we owe to your people. To resurrect hope and help prevent the dying of our collective souls. To illuminate the path that we lost sight of. To prepare for the unification of the One. And to uphold the Light so that we never loose our way and stumble into Darkness again."

This was not what G'Kar was expecting. Nothing that happened since she first entered his quarters was anything he expected to witness when he woke up that morning. He let her words settle as he sat down. Selene stood silently waiting all that was to come. If he rejected her, she still had a mission on the station. The only thing she wanted from him then was his silence. She did notice that he seemed to have forgotten she was there while he was deep in thought. Finally, he glanced up at her and turned his familiar penetrating gaze on her. She wasn't about to back down from him. She knew who she was and what she was supposed to do. G'Kar began to realize that while the freeing of Narns was one of their goals and purposes, this group was actively preparing to fight the Shadows and disentangle themselves from whatever deal Cartagia made. That made sense to him. Now Vir's actions and demeanor made sense to him. Things started to click into place. Then he realized that she was still standing while he thought.

"Please, have a seat."

"Thank you, sir."

That was also puzzling to him. Since her first visit she called him sir and treated him with more respect that any Centauri ever had. Except, perhaps, Vir. There was no pride or ostentation in her manners or address. She was humble yet strong and capable. Definitely not like any Centauri he'd ever met. Not one of them in the palace had impressed him as being capable of a serious thought in their head or a commitment to anything other than their own whims. This one was very different and if she and Vir are any indication, their entire group is as well.

"Is Vir the leader of your organization?"

"Sir, I think you understand the circumstances on Centauri Prime as such that openness is not an option at this time. We move in secret and you are the only one outside of our Order who knows what our true purpose is. I will not comment on our leadership in anyway."

G'Kar actually likes this answer. Truth be told, he likes her. He smiles and nods.

"So is this what the Rangers on Minbar have been assisting with? I know they are also on your home world. Malcolm informed us."

"Z'al is not a Ranger creation. They worked with Vir on Minbar to help get your people out. They are still helping with that. There is much to discuss, sir. First, one of our goals is helping those we can to escape. At some point, someone is going to notice the growing number dead Narns on a monthly basis so we won't be able to continue killing them off."

"What!"

"Oh, sorry sir. That's our term. To get them away from certain areas we 'kill' them in the computer system and then the Rangers come in and transport them. Or we have them sent to desolate uninhabitable planets with no supplies or food shipments so they can die on the planet with no cost or fuss to the Centauri. But really they are being picked up and rerouted somewhere else. Its really a brilliant plan, sir. Vir thought of it and he works out all the details. No one goes looking for the dead."

G'Kar is speechless again. His reaction was natural and instinctive but he should have realized that wasn't the way it sounded. After listening to her brief over-view, he had to admit that it was a brilliant plan and wanted to know more. That's when she produced the data crystals with their highest classified information.

"Sir, all of them are on these crystals. This is our most sensitive record. Their location, how long they been there, where they were transported from, their true names. Some of our operating procedures or at least some of the contacts we use. It is crucial that no one see this. Vir is giving it to you for obvious reasons. He wanted you to have a full understanding of what's been done to this point and what we hope to do in the future."

"What do you hope to do?"

"Helping your people to escape is one thing. Complete liberation and reparation is something else. That is our ultimate goal. Some other things have to happen before we can make that a reality but the plan has already been hammered out."

"I had no idea. I don't know what to say."

"As I said sir, we owe all Narns debts of honor, blood, money, and truthfully several thousand pounds of our own flesh. Z'al intends to see that those debts are paid. We can't change the past but we can alter the present situation and set things right for the future."

He can really only stare at her and nod. He had no idea they would be thinking that far ahead. Now he sees the blessing he would have forfeited for his people in taking Mollari's deal. There are rewards for righteous behavior. Or at least reminders why its important to walk the path in truth.

"Vir said you were a contact person here on the station. That means he's going to start sending Narns this way."

"If he can. Things here seem a bit strained. We need to figure out how many can safely blend in as if they've always been here and how many we can transport through here. I don't want any problems with Mr. Garibaldi. He's—intense."

"That is not the only reason you are here on this station."

"No, it is not."

"Why else are you here?" G'Kar thinks he knows but wants her to say it. He doesn't think she will.

"I am not at liberty to discuss that."

He nods and accepts that 'cause that's what he would have done. Doesn't matter, it was confirmation enough for him.

Over the next week G'Kar and Selene developed a comfortable and productive working relationship. The first thing they decided was that each group of rescued Narns should view a recording from him explaining the situation and asking for their cooperation and patience while they continued to work many different avenues to secure everyone's freedom. Selene said that Anla'Shok might be obsessive about misdirection but she was not Anla'Shok. She was Centauri and she was Z'al. As long as it rose to the level of technical misrepresentation, she had no problem with it. G'Kar was now a part of the operation and he should be the face of the movement. He didn't really like that but agreed that it was better than her doing it. That's when she explained both Z'al and their Ranger contacts' hopes that G'Kar might be able to organize some of the freed Narns into joining the fight against the Shadows any way they could. He agreed and said he'd have to think about it. The only place in the known universe where Narns could move openly and freely was under sanctuary at Babylon 5. That posed a problem. But G'Kar had been many things in his life, he would think of something.

They met in the secret and quiet of his quarters at random times so that Garibaldi could not figure out her schedule. It annoyed him but since G'Kar was unharmed, he accepted it. Once Marcus returned from fighting the two of them became obsessed with gathering information on her because they were certain that she knew exactly what was going on in the Centauri Republic. Why the secrecy and what connection it had to G'Kar, they could not tell. She always wore that cloak with the hood raised and those gloves. She spoke to no one but G'Kar and she seemed too familiar with down below because neither of them could tail her for long without losing her. Selene thanked the human reservation about keeping their mental shields up and not allowing themselves to accidentally scan others. She had no problem dropping her shields to be sure no one was following or getting to close. She had deals to make. She was Centauri after all. She would complete her mission.

Shanmal came to the station undercover, or as undercover as a Minbari Ranger could be. Both Marcus and Garibaldi noticed that he did not come looking for them but for her and went directly inside her quarters. This was a bit much for Marcus to take since he did oversee all Ranger activity on the station. Garibaldi agreed and figured as Chief of Security he had a right to know what was going on as well.

"Selene, I brought some messages from friends."

"Thank you Shanmal. I was wondering if I'd ever hear from them. Sit down if you have a minute."

"I have some time. Cole and Mr. Garibaldi are probably still deciding whether to come here and confront us directly or to follow me after I leave and interrogate me then."

She laughs at that because it seems exactly like something they would do.

"You are right. They've been following me around this station for the entire week I've been here. It does not help that Citizen G'Kar will tell them nothing. Now that you have come they will be more intense."

"I agree, but Vir wants no one to know and that is how it will be. Also, G'Kar has no desire to share this or he would have and neither of them would be following you. Now, I think you better start viewing some of those. I believe there is a new mission for you. One that I do not approve of but I am not your superior."

This causes Selene to look up surprised at Shanmal's tone.

"You know of it, the specifics?"

"Yes."

"How many know of it?"

"Only Vir, myself and you once you view the recording."

"Why did he tell you?"

"In case you don't come back someone outside the Republic had to know where you went and what you were doing. I am to inform G'Kar if you do not return."

"Not really liking the sound of that one bit Shanmal"

"Neither did I."

The entire time she's watching and listening to Vir's message, she can sense Shanmal getting more and more agitated. By the time it finishes she understands why. Puzzled by this new turn of events, she figures he's got a very good reason for doing this. Then she thinks about it a little more and understands why he chose her to do it even if she doesn't get what he's doing and laughs.

"Selene, surely you don't actually see any humor in this situation?"

"Relax, I'm not crazy. I just figured out part of what Vir is up to." At his eager and questioning look,

"I said part. I have no clue about the rest. You know Vir, until he lays it all out for you, there's no way to understand what he's planning."

Still not comfortable with the whole situation but satisfied with her answer, he agrees.

"Will you need my help getting started?"

"Yeah, I need you to keep two very nosey people out of my way while I go complete the purchase of a ship I had my eye on."

"You were already trying to purchase a ship? You suspected something like this?"

"Nope, but Vir knows my background, my history, and my skills. I figured that at some point he would send me out on something. Though I admit, I thought it might be a direct pickup or cargo run."

"Ah, I see. That makes sense. When do you want to do this and how much time will it take?"

"Let's finish going through these things first. I have some reports and messages for you as well. Then you head out slowly across the station like you're meeting someone in or near the Zocolo. That'll cause both of them to follow you and pounce. Then I'll head off to my contact. I guess I'll leave as soon as the ship's ready. "

"That sounds fine to me. I still do not like this assignment."

"Well then, aren't you glad you're Anla'Shok now, huh?"

"That is not funny."

"Yeah it is."

There was one thing Vir Cotto never told anyone. No, that secret he held tightly in the back of his mind. Since the day he gathered all the horrible information on their involvement with the Shadows, Vir began stealing—reappropriating—funds from accounts within the Centauri Republic. Actually, he was moving massive amounts of money from not only state accounts on Centauri Prime but throughout the entire Republic. Budgets of every single agency, department, bureau, and ministry had an extensive amount of fat trimmed off of them. And for some reason, tax payments from some of the most wealthy houses were not accounted for and had to be repaid. He wouldn't let Cartagia off the hook scot free. The emperor's personal accounts were raided periodically and he'd also managed to sell off quite a bit of his personal assets and holdings. Everybody knew Cartagia was crazy and likely to do anything. His accountants would not alert him of the situation or question any of the expenses. That was what Vir was counting on.

Vir set up off world accounts in the names of various foreign corporations veiled so tightly, no one would be able to trace it back to him or Z'al unless and until he wanted them to. Vir called it the War Fund. They could not drive those Shadows away the same as G'Quon. He didn't want to kill 1/3 of his group besides, there were too many ships. They needed ships and they needed weapons to fight them. He didn't want to destroy Centauri Prime like Captain Sheridan did Z'ha'dum but he wanted them destroyed or he wanted them gone so that they could fight them in open space. That meant that they would need ships capable of doing serious damage. Something equivalent to Minbari ships or those the Centauri were using against outer worlds. They cost money to build and it cost even more to ensure their construction remained a secret. Vir always thought ahead.

At the same time, Vir was researching and uncovering any additional information on their organization he could. What he found was amazing so he pulled a few others off scouting detail and permanently assigned them to gathering a different kind of information. Centauri history had been rewritten by conquers but not so effectively to get by this group. They picked up Vir's research and continued to dig deeper. The Republic always claimed that there was another specie on their world. Modern history text referred to them as the Ion. Supposedly, the complete extinction of that race was the first great accomplishment of the newly formed Republic. In truth, it was not another specie. It was the Order of Z'al. Vir organized a second group to begin quietly searching the caves and buried ruins from the old temples to find, restore and preserve what was hastely hidden when the Order had to scatter and flee. It had been 3,000 years since the last of them were hunted and killed by the one who would later proclaim himself to be the first emperor of the Centauri Republic. There were a lot of lost artifacts, ancient texts, maps, scrolls, records of Z'al's prophecies and some of her written teachings. They needed those and Vir was determined that they get them.

Selene did not trust Cole or Garibaldi not to break into her quarters while she was away. Since Shanmal was to wait on the station for her return, they agreed that he would stay there. Hopefully the others wouldn't realize she was gone and come to their own conclusions. She laughed earlier but she wasn't laughing now. Considering everything that's happening this could blow up in all their faces and cause a greater disaster.

She'd missed her check in and return deadline by 2 days but that couldn't be helped. She hoped that Shanmal hadn't sent word back home yet to worry the others. She also hoped that he hadn't told G'Kar, she didn't want anyone to worry. Just her luck he had given her a bit of padding and a grace period. For a Minbari, Shanmal was an optimist who believed in luck—some times. Thankfully, this was one of those times.

"Truthfully, I was not looking forward to making the report."

"Yeah, I'm sorry about that. It couldn't be helped."

"You do not look well. What you found is obviously not very good."

"No, it isn't. Its confusing and for some of it I have no proof. They probably won't believe me."

Then she hands him an 8x10 inch black box with no apparent way of opening it. "I haven't a clue so don't look at me like that. All I know is its very important and Vir needs it."

Shanmal is dying to know what she learned and is patiently attempting to seem supportive and interested. Selene didn't notice anything as she stared off trying to figure out how this information really and truly fit into Vir's plan. Yeah, she got the surface reason, but she had to figure he was up to something else. Nothing came to mind so she got up and headed out to check in with G'Kar.

"Thanks for everything Shanmal. Here's the report for Vir and all the information I have so far. I hope the dynamic duo weren't a pain to you. I've gotta go meet with G'Kar now. Stay as long as you like."

With that she left and he was still sitting there without any of the details or information. "The humans do not bother with politeness. If they want to know something they simply interrupt and blurt out their questions. I'm going to start doing that from now on!"

"Ah, I see you have returned in one piece."

"Very funny, sir. I almost didn't." Then she laughed and G'Kar joined her but was concerned.

"Is everything alright?"

"Actually, I need your help. I have some information that does not pertain to our operation that needs to be shared with the War Council. Is it possible for you to arrange for me to speak and make the report?"

He doesn't see anything wrong with that but his mind can't help turning over possibilities. The first thing that comes to mind is that she's planning on revealing the truth of what's happening on Centauri Prime. He doesn't even know that. She's shared nothing. Still he has a responsibility to the others to have some idea of what she wants to talk about.

"What is the nature of the report?" He wasn't sure she'd need to meet with the Council as a whole. Depending on the importance of the information he would simply have her write up a report for them including any supporting materials and he'd pass it to the others at the next meeting or some time before.

"I know how those 16 Rangers died."

"I'll call for an emergency meeting immediately."

G'Kar gave the captain no details but Sheridan could tell by his tone that it was important and it couldn't wait. He also seemed a bit unnerved. Selene was nervous because she'd have to come face to face with the two she'd manage to avoid. She knew they wouldn't let her out of the room without grilling her on everything. Only if she had to would she reveal herself. But, she did think they'd have to see her face now. It would be kind of stupid to give a report with the hood on and expect them to take her information seriously. So she lowered it just before they reached the door.

Everyone was there when G'Kar walked in with Selene ½ a step behind him. Yes, just as she thought, the two nosey ones were on alert. She suspected they'd all think she was here to report on Vir and Centauri Prime. She also wasn't stupid, they still thought she was a Ranger in hiding. The only reason they hadn't approached her directly was because of Delenn's directive months ago that they not try to find out information on what Vir is doing. She'd never expected to ever get close to any of these leaders and was still amazed that she made it inside Delenn's quarters. Before she could come ½ way across the room she stopped in her tracks and gasped, then stood stock still. This immediately drew everyone else's attention as they followed her line of sight they realized she was locked in some staring contest with Fannol. He did not move either. And then all her personal business that she didn't even know she had came out in front of a group of people she didn't even know.

Susan has no idea what's going on and doesn't think she likes it based on Fannol's condition and the fact that she can't feel any emotions from him. They've all seen a lot of weird things but this wasn't just weird, she was concerned that this Selene did something to him. They look to Stephen and are all really concerned when they see that he is staring at Selene with his mouth hanging wide open and in the greatest state of shock they have ever seen him. He's not even paying attention to Fannol so they think he's alright and that Stephen knows why he's having that reaction. But now they all wonder why he's looking at Selene so intently. None of them know her, but all of them got Michael's report and all of them know that whatever she and G'Kar are discussing he will not share. That does not stop them from looking to him for an explanation. He just shrugs 'cause he doesn't know. This is fascinating, he guesses, but he really wanted to know what happened to the Rangers.

Then the–whatever that was is broken and she can move again. Nobody missed the fact that she stopped mid stride with one foot still in the air. Before she can collect herself or the others can attack her for information they all hear a throat clear from the other side of the room, Draal.

"Hello there. Yes, you young lady." He's sounding a bit condescending so Susan figures he's in a good mood today.

"Yes."

"Come down to the planet now."

"The planet?"

"Yes. You have noticed that this station is orbiting a planet?"

"Yes."

"Good. Then go to your ship, get into your shuttle and fly it down here."

"Um...."

"Secrets have a way of coming out when you least expect them. Lets you and I try to be more forth coming with each other than some people around here. We want a healthy relationship."

When he made that comment about being more forth coming his tone was oozing with sarcasm and displeasure as he looked at Susan. She blushed and looked away.

Everyone else is looking at Selene and she's just looking at Draal not knowing what's really going on. But, obviously she took too long because his patience completely wore out and he roared,

"Child, I am not playing with you. Get down here now!"

That got a reaction out of everyone in the room. She jumped at his tone then nodded to him and his image disappeared. They are staring openly at her now. She turns to G'Kar,

"Sir, I'm sorry about the meeting. He doesn't seem too happy, I think I better hurry."

"That's alright, we can reschedule another time. Stop by my quarters when you return."

"Yes, sir."

Then she raised the hood of her cloak, turned and ran from the room. [So this is what everyone means by strange!]

Stephen is quiet and thoughtful as he sits back in his chair. G'Kar is sure everyone suspects he knows something since they know each other. He does feel a responsibility toward her and doesn't want to see them start hurling accusations at her just because they don't know what she's doing here. He's firm in his resolve to defend her if the need arises.

Susan's looking at Fannol with concern. The last few weeks have been strange. Their bond isn't as strong anymore and most times it seems like its completely broken. If she didn't know him so well, she'd never know how he felt on anything. He's quiet but he isn't outwardly distressed. Then she considers that when he is at his most distressed he looks calm and relaxed so that's not a sign. No one else is sure who they want to focus on. Stephen–cause they all know he knows a lot based on his reaction, Fannol was involved in whatever that was, and G'Kar is the only one who knows her. It's a three way tie until finally, Michael can't stand it anymore,

"What was that all about and what just happened?"

Nobody says anything. He's getting ticked. He's been certain that there was something off about her since the moment she stepped into his office. The cloak and those gloves confirmed it but she wasn't wearing her hood when she came in. Garibaldi had to admit she is beautiful but much too young for him. Still, he wants answers.

"Stephen?"

"I can't say."

Now the captain decides to step in so that Michael doesn't blow a fuse.

"You are unsure or you aren't allowed to tell us?"

"I don't know."

Sheridan tries not to roll his eyes at that response but when he looks at Stephen he can see that he's not being difficult, he looks amazed. Fannol hasn't said anything but he's just being quiet.

"Can you explain a little more than that for us please?"

"Sorry, captain. I just never expected this, it took be by surprise." Then he gets all thoughtful and Sheridan figures he's not going to be anymore helpful at the moment while he works it through.

Marcus wants to throw out a question or two but Garibaldi isn't finished yet,

"Fannol?"

"Yes."

"What was that all about?"

Fannol hesitates for a minute then chances a quick glance at Susan before turning back to Michael,

"Its personal."

Not one single person in the room expected him to say that. Susan doesn't know what she feels hearing that response. Deep down, she hoping that he means its personal to everyone except her cause she didn't think they kept secrets from each other. Finally, Marcus has to ask,

"Its personal?"

"Yes." The way Fannol said that left absolutely no doubt in anyone's mind that the subject was closed. They also were pretty sure they'd get nothing out of Stephen now since Fannol said that. They were all secretly hoping that she'd either fess up when she came back or she'd tell G'Kar and they could get it out of him. But, considering how tight lipped G'Kar is concerning her, they doubt it. The captain decides to bring this meeting back down to the land of mere mortals,

"Ok, G'Kar you called this meeting. It sounded like something really big. And, its obvious you brought a guest, though she seems to have had a more urgent appointment to keep." He's trying to loosen them up because a couple of them are wound too tight.

"Actually, captain, I wasn't going to make the report. Selene was, but as you can see, she's not here."

"Yeah, G'Kar we saw that." Garibaldi really is in a bad mood. Finding out she was the one with information that was urgent enough for G'Kar to call a meeting grates more.

Sheridan sense this and jumps back in,

"Well, couldn't you give us a hint as to her report? She had to tell you something to make you call the meeting."

"Oh yes, what she said was more than enough for me to contact you immediately. Selene will have to make that report, if she is able to." His words and tone conveyed just how serious the information is and everyone realizes it wasn't good news.

"What does that mean?"

"It means, I suspect someone does not wish for us to know the information and that is why her report was preempted. Obviously, I have no proof of that. Its just speculation."

Delenn was silent the entire time, simply watching. She was curious about Selene when she first brought that message. After learning that she was on the station, meeting with G'Kar she had some suspicions but she wasn't sure. The amount of deference she pays to him was very obvious during their brief interaction. She noted that Selene treated G'Kar as a superior. Marcus felt something was very wrong with her and that whatever the Rangers were working on with Vir needed to be exposed. They'd had months and did not make a report. She was Entil'Zha and could recall them. She wondered why he was getting so agitated on the subject. Then she learned that he was able to gather not one shred of information from or about her at all and that Shanmal visited for some time and did not check in with him or Michael. She understood then. But, this display was interesting. Fannol's behavior was surprising and she had to wonder if his reaction had anything to do with Kosh or who he is. [Susan had no reaction and she carries a piece of Kosh inside her. It couldn't be that?]

She decides to forestall anymore speculation or bickering that she can feel brewing,

"Since the report was hers to make we should adjourn if there is no other business. If G'Kar is right and she is prohibited from making the report, then it is information we were not intended to have. Marcus, you and Michael have spent an extensive amount of time trying to follow her and pry into her mission on this station since she arrived."

They look at her surprised that she's caught them.

"Yes. You heard me. Your attitude in this room tells me that you have each developed both an obsession with her affairs and a prejudice against her as an individual. I will not tolerate either of those things from either of you. Her meetings with G'Kar are none of our business. I am certain he has not shared anything that he knows about her or her work with either of you. That means he believes you do not need to know. I am inclined to agree with G'Kar. Stay out of it, stay away from her, and expend this excess energy you both seem to have on something more productive for the war effort."

Even John Sheridan, fiancé, was surprised at the way she dressed them both down. But, he had to agree. If they had gotten to the point where Delenn had to intervene, they'd gone too far.

"Well, I think Delenn has covered everything that needed to be said on that subject for all of us. If there's nothing else people, we're adjourned."

Fannol knew that Susan was relieved by his explanation when they met in private after the meeting. He had been hiding a lot from her over the last few months but she did not know that. Kosh was effectively interfering with their empathic connection. When he first realized it was Kosh he was ticked off until he considered that he WAS trying to hide from her so Kosh's interference might have just been his way of helping out. But, Fannol doubted it. He got the distinct impression months ago that Susan wasn't supposed to know. He was able to tell her the truth when he said that it was Kosh's secret not his. He knew Susan would leave it alone and since they were hiding the fact that Kosh was not with her, she wouldn't allow anyone else to pry.

He had been struggling with many things for months. Trying in vain to remember the lost history of things that connected he and Susan together, wading through the things Kosh was trying to show him, teach him. When Selene walked into the War Room, everything clicked into place. That's when Fannol felt Kosh completely. He knew exactly what was going on and he was able to let Kosh in on his new understanding. So, after some time with Susan he headed down to Kosh's ship. Fannol knew that Kesha was concerned that he went there because he was uncomfortable on his own ship. That was true, in the beginning, but things changed. He really didn't feel like explaining to anyone that the ship was also conscious and he was hanging out with it too.

"Dulann, something is going to happen soon."

"Why do you say that?"

"Because I got a report from station Rangers about the one who hides beneath that black cloak and is always visiting with G'Kar."

"They say she is a Ranger in hiding but whatever she is assigned to caused Cole and Mr. Garibaldi to try relentlessly to get information on it. So far, they have failed. What does that have to do with us, or specifically Fannol?"

"Because she has been gone for almost a month and just returned today. Shanmal has stayed in her quarters the entire time but left today. After they met in her quarters she went straight to G'Kar and not 20 minutes later she enters the War Room with him for the first time. Fannol's guards reported that she lowered her hood before going inside and they saw her face for the first time."

"I suppose this is when you fill me in on the gruesome sight?"

"Funny. No, that's just it. They say she is beautiful. But that's not the point. She was in there for less than 15 minutes, then races from the room with the hood raised and takes a shuttle down to the planet. The one that until today only allowed Ivanova's shuttle to land on it."

"How do we know that was not Ivanova under the hood? Perhaps that was a way for her to get around her guards in order to go down there."

"I would agree any other time. Except she walked calmly out of the room with the rest of them ½ later and went on with her station duties. Then she and Fannol went to dinner in the Zocolo. The hooded one, Selene, still hasn't returned from the planet. Its been hours. What could she possibly be doing down there? Ivanova's never stayed more than an hour. And Fannol is in Kosh's ship."

Dulann mulls that over. He sees some interesting things but still it isn't enough to be alarmed,

"What are you suggesting?"

"Just what I said. Something is going to happen. Did you notice Talia on board?"

"Yes, I saw her about an hour ago. What of it?"

"She brought suitcases on board. More than enough clothes and personal items than are necessary for engagements."

Dulann sees where she's going. He still can't get over the human obsession with conspiracy theories and how they can take just a few facts, twist them together and come up with something.

"Those are her permanent quarters. Did you think she would pack an overnight bag every time she comes on board?"

"I thought we covered you not being cute. Its more than that. Dr. Franklin inventoried the medical facilities this afternoon. He said he was updating the files for the Fleet and preparing to order additional supplies."

"That sounds reasonable."

"Yeah, except he's also a Soulwalker. Fannol is communing with the Light being from beyond, and Talia, the secret super powered telepath, is decorating her quarters all on the same day. Plus, the actions of Selene this afternoon. I'm telling you that something is going to happen Dulann."

"Has White Star 3 contacted us?"

They both know that ever since they made changes for Fannol, they haven't contacted White Star 3 for anything. Ivanova's condition hasn't altered and that's the only reason they would contact them.

"No. We've heard nothing from them."

"There you are."

"Uh uh Dulann. There is no there you are. She isn't affected. She doesn't have a piece of Kosh so of course she's fine."

Dulann can't argue that point so he stays silent on it. Finally,

"What are you thinking?"

"That both Talia and Dr. Franklin think we will be taking a trip. Long enough for her to have brought so many things on board. Long enough for him to be checking to make sure we're well stocked with medical supplies."

"Where do you think we'll be going?" He's got a sinking feeling and they both know it.

"I think the Vorlon is getting Fannol ready to see the home world. I think that's the real reason he spends so much time in that ship dealing with Kosh. I think the captain's associate knows this or something close to it and that's why they walk and talk so much. I think whatever the Vorlons want from Fannol will be happening soon. I think that we better instruct the pilots to be ready to return here no matter what at the first sign of the bay doors opening. I think that anytime he's on that ship we better be prepared to jump. That's what I think."

Dulann just looks at her for several minutes without saying a word. [I am NEVER going to understand humans!]

"I better make sure food stuffs are stocked. We should start running maintenance system checks now and anything else we can think of."

"So you believe me? You think I'm right?"

"I think there is merit to some of the things you have said. I am not ready to say you are right but I did promise to keep an open mind. This is a most unusual situation. There are many problems."

"What do you mean?"

"First, no one enters Vorlon space let alone lands on any of the planets or their home world. Second, he has continued to hide his condition and his trips to the private bay from all those on the Council as well as Ivanova. Third, Talia does not look well. I think she's started coming here to hide her appearance from those on the station. She is spending long hours in the chapel. Fourth, we have no authority to pursue him and we won't know if he's actually on board the ship when it leaves the bay."

"We're not gonna let him go all the way out to Vorlon space alone on that ship with no protection or a way back. And don't say that this ship could hardly protect him from the Vorlons even if its built with their technology. He may have hidden his condition, but the fact that Talia and Dr. Franklin seem to be preparing for the trip is authority enough to me. Besides, our first responsibility is to him. Every time White Star 3 jumped with him on board and we couldn't pursue it made my blood boil. No. He is our only priority. If he hasn't seen fit to inform the others, it is not our concern. And, if I see a Vorlon ship heading to the jump gate, I'm gonna order pursuit so you better back me up on that. The pilot and guards will obviously know if he's on board and confirm it for us. "

He really doesn't want to pick apart her collage of facts, supposition, fantasy, and gut feelings. Instead, he simply nods and ask if she's thought of anything else.

"Not right now but if you give me a little while I'm sure I'll think of something."

"I do not doubt that."

Talia Winters had no problems admitting when someone else was right. Unfortunately, this time she wished they weren't. No matter how hard she tries, Talia can't figure out how Kesha knew or suspected that she'd start having some kind of reaction or altered behavior. [Maybe she didn't guess. No, it was all about Fannol and they wanted to close ranks and keep me quiet.] She doesn't actually care at the moment because she's wrung out. Unlike Susan, she isn't having any dreams or nightmares. She's not getting visions during her waking hours or pulled into some other world.

She's simply changing. She's starting to see and feel more. And, she knows that Stephen sees all this too but hasn't said anything or offered assistance so she knows he won't help. Her biggest fear and nightmare is playing out in real life. She is scared that she'll start evolving rapidly like Jason Ironheart and disappear soon. She can tell that her Psi abilities are changing but she has no idea what those changes are and she doesn't feel comfortable testing them out for the first time on the station or White Star 14 incase she ends up blowing something up.

Talia just knows that something is going to happen soon. She had no idea what possessed her to start packing things to move up to the ship. She didn't stop to ask herself why or even why now. She just did it. When she saw Selene interact with Fannol, she knew they would be leaving soon and she knew where they were going. To be honest, she was scared.

Tafali lead a group of Z'al from Centauri Prime to another planet within the Republic shortly after Selene left. Z'al was a group of 100. A few more were brought in under recommendation of some members. Vir was a bit surprised that the humans didn't have a problem with his directive that any potential recruit be scanned extensively and unknowingly to insure they would not be betrayed. Lydia addressed that,

"Yes, because of the Psi Corp and a natural obsession with privacy, humans don't support unauthorized scans. But, these are Centauri not humans so the rules don't apply. Besides, I have no intention of getting shot because a traitor managed to slip into the ranks. Scan away."

100 was a good start, but Vir knew they needed to grow and expand. They did not have the time or the ability to fight off both the Shadows and the Centauri supporting them with such small numbers. Vir made various contacts on other planets during his time on Minbar. That was how he was able to get certain details about the Narns. Those same contacts came in very handy when he began training the first group and setting up headquarters with supplies. Vir kept his eye on them and knew the right ones to tap for assistance later. Under Tafali's leadership, they were recruiting and training new members on several other planets within the Republic in small isolated camps. The others decided that Vir's face and involvement should not be revealed initially. New recruits at those camps should only meet him and hear his message while in the middle of their training. He was too important to be lost and too recognizable to certain people who's attention they did not wish to attract. Delenn's ban on Ranger activity within Centauri space was a major blessing, their organization would continue to remain secret. Shanmal, Lydia, Malcolm and Adam were the only ones outside their group who knew they existed. Well, G'Kar too but Vir knew he wouldn't tell.

Vir was able to gain considerable information while raiding the Republic's coffers. This led him to question both the pervasiveness of Shadow presence throughout the Republic and the nature it. Lydia and Adam accompanied two other groups who were to gather as much information as they could about the status of any Shadow activity on the other worlds. He knew they weren't reporting any of what was happening within the Republic to the Rangers or leaders within the Army of Light because they knew he was trying to fight for his world and keep it off Ivanova's targeting map. Because of that, Vir wanted them to have access to the information that they gathered on the Shadows and to know that he wasn't keeping them out of the loop. Things specific to Z'al, he kept to himself and the members did as well. No one but G'Kar was to know their true mission and purpose and he meant to keep it that way until he decided it was time.

Mai'lenn was just as suspicious of Selene as Cole and Garibaldi but for different reasons. She did notice that Marcus seemed to exclude himself from Entil'Zha's directive that station Rangers stay out of her way and not interfere in her affairs. Mai'lenn was impressed because Selene managed to do the impossible, she had both men spinning their wheels and chasing their tails. They could get nothing on her or about her and that was saying something. Then she learned that Selene was to accompanying G'Kar to the emergency Council meeting. Mai'lenn did not consider her knowledge of these things as a violation of Entil'Zha's directive because she was not actively gathering information. Some things she happen to witness with her own eyes. As she always made a point to be near them when they met, she was on higher alert because this was an unscheduled meeting. When she saw Selene, still hooded, she knew it had to be something big. No one missed Shanmal's arrival on the station a month ago or that he stayed in Selene's quarters. It did not take long to figure out that she had left the station while he remained. She's been back for less than an hour and Shanmal departed while she is entering the War Room for the first time with G'Kar.

The fact that she keeps her features hidden and only speaks to the Narn is not lost on anyone around this station. I know that on her first day here she met with Mr. Garibaldi and G'Kar then visited Entil'Zha briefly. After that, she spoke only to G'Kar until Shanmal arrived. What she could possibly be doing is a mystery to me. I do not like mysteries when it concerns this group. I do not know what I expected, but I was surprised to see her lower her hood before entering the War Room. I'm certain no one except the Narn has seen her face before today. We are unsure how to proceed and prepare at this point. Usually, Ivanova gives us some warning of things to come. We have noticed that she is looking better than we've ever seen her. When Selene raced from the room 15 minutes later with her hood raised, I knew something was going on. There might have been a slight breach of Entil'Zha's directive after that. We acquired information by some means and just how is not really relevant at this time. I happen to know that she shuttled down to the planet that only Ivanova seemed to be able to land on. Initially, we thought it was Ivanova under the hood and that it was a rouse to slip away from her guards so that she could go do whatever she does down there. No. The others left within the hour and they were all in good spirits.

What concerns me is that it has been over 12 hours and she has not returned from the planet. None of us knows what is down there. Fannol will never tell, of that we are certain. So, we have no way of knowing whether or not something has happened to her. This is all strange but the other activity of the day makes me extremely suspicious that they are planning something or hiding something. Talia moved many things up to White Star 14 after the meeting. Her guards were questioned but those Moon Shields are as tight lipped as Satai when it comes to her. They share nothing. Dr. Franklin shuttled up for several hours as well. We could not figure out what he was doing because White Star 14 assigned him guards that would meet him in the shuttle bay and remain with him until he returned to the ship months ago. I have long suspected that something was going on with that ship but they would not talk even if we asked so I directed everyone to remain silent and to just make sure that Dr. Franklin was protected. None of us were prepared for what would happen next.

"Remmier to Kesha"

"Go ahead." She says this while turning to Dulann with an expression that says 'I told you'.

"The Vorlon ship appears to be powering up."

"Where is Fannol?"

"Inside."

"Move immediately into position so that you can return here quickly. We are going to pursue and if you aren't on board before the ship jumps, you stay behind. Tell NO ONE any of the things you know if you don't make it here in time."

"Understood."

"Dulann, where is Talia?"

"In the chapel. While you were speaking with Remmier I verified. She went in an hour ago and hasn't moved. Someone looked in to visually confirm she is sitting there."

"Ok, she obviously knows something is about to happen. Funny, the others don't but she has kept silent so that's fine with me."

"Agreed. Helm, move us closer to the private docking bay. Ops, open the shuttle bay doors. I suggest we give them as much of a chance to return as possible."

"Good. We're giving ourselves away. Others will figure out we knew what is to come but I don't care. When that ship moves I want to be right on its tail to the jump gate. And I don't want anyone else following."

"I agree with you on that. However, there is no way for us to prevent them from following."

They were all surprised to look up and see Talia step onto the bridge. She said nothing but took her seat next to the command chair. She was out of uniform and dressed in her customary Religious Caste robes. Her expression was solemn but she wasn't agitated or distressed. Then she stunned them all with her next words,

"Prepare to set a course for the Vorlon Empire. Fall into formation directly behind Kosh's ship once it exits the docking bay. Maintain communications silence with all ships and all persons on the station."

She turned to Dulann and handed him a data crystal,

"I have prepared an out going message to Council members to alert them that they must not order any ship to pursue us. Please prepare to route it through to their individual com links. It will not take long for C&C to alert them once Kosh's ship exits. If they disregard my words, I can prevent them all from following."

She said nothing else. Funny, everyone thought she'd said plenty by that point. Dulann and Kesha made eye contact and nodded. They had a great deal to discuss later. Just then, the doors to the private bay opened and the shuttle raced back to White Star 14. Before the shuttle bay doors finished closing their ship was moving closer into position. Good thing it did because the Vorlon ship exited the bay and headed straight for the jump gate. It was apparent that no one contacted C&C for permission to transit the gate because they were the first to hail. Within the time it took White Star 14 to position itself behind the Vorlon ship while it activated the jump gate, hails started coming in from every single ship in orbit. Everybody wanted to know what they were doing. Moon Shields were not happy about these new events. They knew Talia was on board the ship and they wanted to pursue. They were the only ones she spoke with directly. Her words were quiet but they were strong and firm. They were to stand down and stay put. They did.

All hell seemed to break loose at once on the station. C&C contacted Ivanova to alert her that Kosh's ship was headed to the jump gate. She wanted information and she wanted it now. Ordinarily C&C would have had some more warning to activity but with Fannol shuttling directly into the bay so much Corwin and the others don't pay any attention to it anymore. No one in C&C ever thought to inform her because of the codes used to open the bay and the additional code from Garibaldi that indicated it was a silent operation and they didn't see anything. How were they supposed to know Ivanova didn't know? Yes, it was strange but everything around this entire station is strange, how are we suppose to know when YOU consider something strange???

Reports started coming in from every ship in orbit to station Rangers or anyone they could alert. Every single one of them wanted to know what White Star 14 was doing and under who's orders. Marcus was not happy when they ignored his hail. He was starting to panic when they ignored Delenn's hail. They knew it was something big. That's when Mai'lenn informed Marcus that Selene had not returned to the station, she was still down on the planet. Nobody on the Council knew what that meant and looked to Susan. She never stayed with Draal that long. Most of the time was in transit to the planet or dealing with Draal.

Then they remembered G'Kar's suspicion that someone didn't want Selene to report the information she learned. All this new activity caused them to reconsider her encounter with Fannol in a new light. They still weren't sure what that was about but they were pretty sure it had something to do with Fannol taking off following Kosh's ship and her being trapped on the planet below. Yeah, they were almost certain she wasn't staying down there of her own free will.

Susan was angrier than anyone had seen her in a long time. White Star 14 wouldn't answer her hail, Fannol wouldn't either. She was about to order every single one of her Fire Wings to pursue when they all got Talia's incoming message.

"If you are receiving this message then White Star 14 is preparing to enter the jump gate along with the Vorlon ship. Do not interfere. Do not attempt to send any ships in pursuit. I will prevent every single ship in orbit from opening a jump point and I will take their engines off line permanently if you force me to. I will also destroy that jump gate. Do not test the conviction of my words or my ability to do as I have said. Fannol and I are fine. We are doing what we were called to do."

Susan stops and turns on Stephen, "I thought you said it wasn't time. What does this mean?"

He's had a day none of them can understand. They think he's got some kind of encyclopedia of the supernatural stashed away somewhere that he just looks these things up and files away facts in case they need information. He may be a Soulwalker but this is the first time the Universe has ever gathered souls like this and it's a lot of hard work! None of them will ever understand or appreciate what he goes through. Not to mention that while he was preparing for this, he had the surprise curve ball thrown at him by their visitor in the War Room yesterday. That, he still hasn't worked out and there are many other things going on outside of the station that demand his time and attention. He's been monitoring Fannol and Kosh constantly and he's still keeping an eye on Lorien and the captain. Stephen doesn't even bother with Marcus because he knows his secret and that Marcus will never admit it if he does not have to.

"I can't tell you that. And I don't want to hear anything out of any one of you on this. I'm tired. You have no idea what I do and I'm not talking about the medical profession. I'll tell you this, doubt Talia's words and send a ship after them, you'll get it back in pieces. This station will be cut off from the rest of known space until she decides or remembers to unlock the door. Susan, you have your path and Fannol has his. Don't even think about trying to channel your way in. He knows exactly what he's doing and it should be MORE than obvious to you that for reasons you may never know, the Universe had no intention of you finding out about any of this."

They are all pretty stunned at not only his words or his tone. Not one of them thought Talia was powerful enough to do anything close to what he just said. He's never gotten firm with them before and none of them know how to take it. His next words confuse and unnerve them all.

"I know Delenn addressed this yesterday but I'm going to say it a different way for a different reason. When she returns to this station, stay away from Selene. Stay out of her way. Don't even think of trying to telepathically scan her. Marcus, I know you are considering it. Susan, she didn't do anything to Fannol. This is not her fault. Don't even think of blaming her for any of it."

That's an eye opener for all of them and they really want to know what that means but considering this side of Stephen they've never seen before, not one of them wants to risk asking.

"I don't just work on this station people. Yeah, you know who I am but you have no idea what that means or what I have to do. I am not bound by time or space. Do you understand that? Things happening light years from here in the past and future I am aware of and have to deal with. You all are not my only charges. Do you understand that? Each of you has a purpose and a calling. Some of you think you have a full understanding of it, none of you do. At least not yet. We have a station to protect, a war to fight, and individual paths to walk. I suggest you each spend a little more time and attention on your own and leave this alone. Oh and Marcus, you are the LAST person in the entire history or existence of the universe who ought to question this. Don't make me pull you aside."

With that, Dr. Stephen Franklin, Medicine Man and Soulwalker, got up and strolled out of the room. There was dead silence in his wake and every single one of them started to understand that Stephen was a heck of a lot more than they considered. Well, Sheridan knew that. Lorien already told him that Soulwalkers were the stuff of Angels. When he considered that they guide the Light beings and that Talia was on that ship he had a pretty good idea where they were going. He knew that Fannol spent much more time with Lorien and that it was much different and more intense than any time Susan did. He was certain that it was Fannol and not Susan that Kosh had taken up residence in. Since he wasn't sure why the two of them were keeping that a secret from everyone else he said nothing. This assured him that there was nothing out of order. He was certain that this was all a part of the Universe's plan. Then he stopped and realized this was going to be a part of his plan to fulfill his purpose. He knew he had some serious work to do if he were going to be able to work these two things together. One thing that didn't escape him was Stephen taking Marcus to task. Whatever that meant, it couldn't be good. He'd deal with that another day.

"Alright people. Stephen is, without question, the authority in this situation. We've heard Talia's message and I don't know her abilities the way you all might but I know what I heard from her. I'd say she's more than capable of following through. Doesn't matter, I'm giving a direct order that better go out across the Fleet. No one searches for those ships or speculates on what they're doing. All Minbari ships in orbit and station Rangers are under order of silence. They don't repeat it even amongst themselves. Those out fighting who missed the show, don't get a report on it. I may not be able to control what League members talk about but humans and Minbari will keep silent."

Then he thought about it for a minute and made an adjustment,

"Marcus, let Mai'lenn out of her misery. Tell her she can file her report to Tuzanor but that better be all she does. I'd rather the Three get it from their ususal source than have to deal with them in person."

Though he was actually dead serious, everyone found the humor in that and laughed.

"Susan, instruct C&C that they are blind, deaf, and dumb on this. They know nothing and they saw nothing. Michael, you've been very quiet, anything to report?

He's feeling pretty bad since G'Kar said something might force Selene to be silent. He didn't take it all that serious at the time but she's been down there a long time. That made him think it was against her will. Stephen's words were a shocker. He didn't know she might have something other worldly about her. He was just ticked cause she managed to evade all his information gathering techniques and anyone who can do that is not someone he wants around. He tried to sooth his ego with the thought that she's a Ranger and well trained for this kind of stuff but remembers that even he can get around the Rangers when he needs to. And Marcus, who's the best he's ever seen, couldn't get anything on her either. Delenn was right, it sort of snow balled into some obsession neither one of them could stop.

"No, captain. I agree with everything you've said. And, I'm gonna to be too busy feeling bad over the way I behaved with Selene and the way we sort of all take Stephen for granted. I've known him for years and even though he didn't yell or raise his voice at all, I've never seen him so worked up or so ticked off. We demand a lot from him and he's right, none of us has any clue what he really goes through or what his true responsibilities are."

Susan's still worried about Fannol but she also heard Stephen. If the Universe had wanted her to know, it would have allowed her to see it. This was something she wasn't to know.

"Yeah, I admit that I kind of rely on Stephen more than the rest of you and it wasn't fair to jump on him with that question just 'cause I was worried about Fannol. I'm not an expert on Soulwalkers but I do know that they have a heavy burden and a serious job. They've only got one boss and Stephen answers directly to the Universe. None of us can say that. We need to cut him some slack."

Here words were accepted by everyone until that last part and they all turned to her wondering what that meant and how she knew. It was Delenn who asked the question they all wanted to know,

"What do you mean, he answers directly to the Universe?"

"I mean that everything that is known about a Soulwalker is generally correct but there's a lot that isn't known about what they do or who they really are. They are not Children of the First Ones like everybody thinks."

Her heart rate accelerated because this was something very new and something very different than she'd been taught. The fact that Susan knew this information told her a great deal.

"Then who are they?"

"They are Children of the Universe. They are directly created by the Universe and they are in direct and constant communication with the Universe. They are blessed and protected by the Universe."

Even Sheridan, who had Lorien's explanation, didn't realize that Stephen was in direct communication with the Universe. When he thought about it, it made sense but he hadn't given it much thought before. [That must be weird. But then again, its how he was born so its normal to him.]

Michael speaks up after a minute, "Wow. I guess we should all chip in and send him a pick me up bouquet or some thing. Maybe even spring for real flowers."

That broke the tension as everyone laughed. Sheridan answered, "I don't know about that, but let's all remember to cut him slack and not give him grief. I'm hungry, let's go get something to eat."

Selene thanked the little man named Zathras as he assisted her into her shuttle. The last 24 hours were just too weird and too surreal to deal with. Then she considered that the entire last month was a bit much. "Yeah, Vir's gonna pay for this. He said strange things happen here, this is more than strange!" Once she got back to the station she went to her quarters to pack and then headed straight to G'Kar. She hoped he wouldn't be upset at her for taking so long but there was absolutely no way she could have changed or stopped any of the things going on around her.

"Selene, its good to have you back in one piece."

"You're always making jokes about that. I'm sorry it took so long, I can't talk about it." By the expression on her face and the travel bag in her hand, G'Kar is certain he was right yesterday.

"Don't worry about it. Things have been a bit hectic here since you left."

She's not sure what that knowing look and wink was all about but nodded like she did and moved on,

"I have to make a quick trip. I shouldn't be gone more than a week, hopefully less than that. Everything is set up for you just as you asked. You can monitor everything from here. And, you'll get some company later this week. I was able to reroute the systems so that maintenance and security won't find out. Its taken a lot of time to make alterations to that part of the station quietly. But you've read the reports. Anyway, here's the credit chit Vir sent to pay for food, incidentals, whatever they need. Also, these are identi cards and individual credit chits for them. I don't know how you're going to be able to meet with them in secret while I'm gone with that security detail you've got."

"Don't worry about it. I've taken care of that. There were a few modifications made to my quarters over the last month as well."

"Huh"

"Air ventilation system. Crawl space is large enough."

"Don't get hurt or into any trouble while I'm gone, sir. Vir would skin me alive." When she smiled he really couldn't help returning it. G'Kar was still amazed that she was a Centauri and that they got along so well. He never really had dealings with Vir and admits that he completely dismissed him, but Selene and Vir are the only Centauri to ever treat him as a person, an equal, and with respect. He really did like her and was concerned for her.

"I will be just find. It is you, that I have some concerns about. I know you must stay silent on certain matters but are you alright?"

She took some time to seriously think about it before answering,

"Yes. The Universe moves in mysterious ways G'Kar. One of the things Z'al warned was the dangers of forgetting that. Of forgetting that we are parts of the whole and that when the balance is shifted we must move as well. Let's just say, I'm getting shifted." Then she laughed.

He studied her intently to be sure. Satisfied that she was, indeed, alright he nodded. "Would you like me to walk you to your ship?"

"Actually, I have one more stop to make before I head out. Another person to see."

G'Kar knows that he is the only person she speaks to except for contacts and traders in down below.

"Who?"

"Captain Sheridan's associate. The one called Lorien."

This gave him pause considering the circumstances. He was unsure what that meant or how she even knew him. But he also considered Draal and the way he spoke to her. It was obvious that he did not think her a threat.

"I can see what you're thinking. I mean him no harm. Trust me, I couldn't harm him if I wanted to."

"True, it just took me by surprise. I didn't know that you knew him."

"I don't. At least not yet. This is one of those things I can't talk about and I hope you understand.

There's no disrespect intended, sir."

"None taken whatsoever. Well, I won't keep you."

"Thanks, bye."

Mai'lenn was surprised by Marcus' instructions and a little embarrassed. She had no idea that the Council knew she was reporting to Tuzanor about their activities. But to hear that the captain made an exception to his order of silence for her to make her report was strange. The condition attached to it was not. She wouldn't be upset by it, though. Anything not to have to face those three again for a live interrogation. She almost did not survive the last one.

She received word that Selene had finally returned to the station. Her activity was a bit strange and it appeared that she was going to leave again based on her travel bag. The visit to G'Kar was expected and no surprise but then she went to the captain's associate. They stayed inside his quarters for over 3 hours. Mai'lenn knew because she found a very comfortable spot near the Zocolo during her off duty time and decided to relax while figuring out what she would say to Durhan. If questioned later, Mai'lenn is prepared to admit that she is technically not interfering with Selene, simply keeping an eye on the captain's associate.

Vir was pleased. Malcolm was impressed. He knew how long the Anla'Shok moved secretly trying to gather confirmation that the Shadows had begun to move. He knew how that was done. They had more members and more resources than Z'al and they weren't hiding from their own people, but this group was moving methodically in almost the same way. Vir would take frequent trips for several days or a week at a time. Malcolm never knew where he went and got the distinct impression that he should not ask. This happened on occasion over the first few weeks but it became more frequent recently. None of the Rangers knew what that was all about but all of them understood that until Vir told you something, there was just no way to guess.

The Rangers did not know, but everyone else knew that Vir was visiting the training camps, speaking, and assisting with recruitment for part of the trips. The other part he spent checking on some of his secret projects. On returning from his latest trip he got a surprise. Selene was standing in headquarters waiting for him. The others said she would not speak to anyone about her reason for returning. When their eyes met, he knew this was to be a very private conversation.

"Sir, my ship is docked a Lanas port. I brought my shuttle down. I think its best that we have this conversation on board my ship."

Vir wasn't sure how to take that but he also knew she wouldn't say another word about it until they were on board her ship. He knew she was confused about the mission he'd sent her on. Or at least part of it. He'd gotten her report from Shanmal before returning to Centauri Prime. What more could she have to discuss? Once on board her ship she began to explain how G'Kar called an emergency meeting so she could make her report. She told him about what happened in the room and the hologram that showed up and was snippy, condescending and then mean to her. And she told about being trapped on that planet for 24 hours. Vir was shocked. He thought she was at least coming to say how the Council responded to her news but they didn't even know.

"What do you mean you were trapped on the plant?"

"I mean that I went down to a place you can't imagine and I can't describe. I was met by the one from the holographic image, he's Minbari and everyone on the Council knows him and exactly what goes on down there. I take it that he and Ivanova are very close but he's annoyed with her about something right now. Anyway, we weren't alone. There was someone else there and they actually wanted to meet you."

Vir's trying to follow this and its not making a whole lot of sense. He suspected there were many secrets on that planet this was confirmation even though she wasn't giving details. But, Vir figured that no matter how amazing whatever is on the planet may be, the real thing she wants to report has nothing to do with that.

"Who wants to meet me? Its not like I can go there. Don't tell me you brought someone else along."

"Yes, sir I did. They were very persistent."

"I trust your judgment though I have no idea how this is going to play out. We've got major security issues. We're running 15 different training camps right now. Even the Rangers don't know we're recruiting or training outside of Centauri Prime. Construction on our main facility on one of the uninhabited outer colony worlds is almost complete. But we still don't have access to the necessary technology needed for our ships and weapons."

"I don't think that's going to be a problem sir."

"Please don't tell me you actually brought one of the Technomages back with you. That definitely wasn't a part of your assignment." Vir didn't want to use their technology, he'd studied and researched enough to know that was modified Shadow tech and he wasn't going to risk simply peeling the skin off of a poison apple. He wanted no part of it.

"Just go back there and take a look for yourself."

Not one for getting caught up in mysteries or letting things drag out, Vir got up and headed aft to meet whomever she brought along. Selene sat patiently waiting for Vir to finish searching the ship for her passenger.

"Blessed Z'al!"

"Guess he found him."

"Selene!"

[I'm coming, no need to holler.]

"You bellowed."

"Explain."

"Vir, this is Ari'ahn.

"No Selene. That was an introduction. I requested an explanation."

"Alright. When I was down on Epsilon 3, that's the planet, Draal, that's the Minbari I mentioned. Anyway, Draal explained that I wouldn't be allowed to make my report to the Council on that little tid bit of information because no one's suppose to know that. At least not now. Apparently, I was about to interfere with the Universe's plan and he had to step in a shut me up. I get the feeling that while I was stashed away on the planet something major and important happened on the station but I didn't have the time to figure out what that was. As you can probably guess, this passenger doesn't like to be kept waiting any longer than necessary."

"I gather that."

"Anyway, Draal introduced me to Ari'ahn. Ari'ahn said he wanted to meet you. Apparently, we're being watched.

"What?"

"Not by the bad guys. These guys. Draal–don't ask how—and Ari'ahn, I think you can take a wild guess on that one. He likes what he sees and is here to help. He's been here before."

"What do you mean? Considering everything that crawling around on our planet, I doubt it was recently. If we didn't have to fight this fight, we wouldn't even be here. I can't see outsiders, especially this one, wanting to visit."

"Its been awhile. According to Ari'ahn, the last time he was here, he was personally hanging out with Z'al herself."

"Oh my."

"Yeah, and now he wants to hang out with you."

"Oh my."

At this point Ari'ahn must have decided that he didn't appreciate being ignored and jumped into the conversation.

"Yessss."

Vir's finally realized he can't stall anymore and has to talk to Air'ahn one on one.

"You came to help?"

"Yes."

"You want to go down to the planet?"

"Yes."

"Is your presence supposed to be a secret?"

"Yes."

"Can we have access to Vorlon technology to build ships? [Since you keep saying yes.]

"Yes."

"Wow, I didn't actually think he'd agree when I asked that question." Selene jumps in,

"Yeah, I kinda figured that the way you slid it in between all the yeses. But, I got the feeling on the trip here that was always part of his plan."

"How are we supposed to get him on the planet without anyone seeing? Better yet, how are we supposed to get him on the planet without the Shadows feeling it?"

"I can answer the first question. Apparently, Vorlons come with their own packing crates and shipping materials for easy transport and assembly."

"This isn't funny Selene. And, it's a bit blasphemous don't you think?"

"Not really. Ari'ahn and I had this same discussion on the way over. I don't think he minded when I said it before. Besides, its true. They set me up with all the stuff we need to sneak him in without anyone suspecting. Its got some gravity stabilizers so we don't have to worry about lifting. But the neatest thing is this here. Its makes the entire crate transparent or invisible or something. Anyway, we can waltz right into the building and no one will see a thing."

"Fine that answers question number 1. What about the Shadows? If they learn he's here, they'll know we're here."

"Take that up with him. I'm just the delivery girl." Rolling his eyes at Selene, Vir turned back to Ari'ahn,

"Will the Shadows feel you? Will they know you are on Centauri Prime?"

"I have always been there."

"Huh?"

"I have always been there."

Vir take a few minutes to think about it after turning to Selene for a translation. She had absolutely no clue what that meant and shrugged. Then he turned back to Ari'ahn,

"Your presence remained on the planet even after you left. Because you walked with Z'al, blessed her and taught her, you are a part of the Centauri. Even though the people turned their back on her and her teaching."

"Yes"

Vir thinks he's cooking now and Selene's respect for him pretty much sky rocketed that he's actually working this out in so short a time.

"Because we have returned to her ways and embraced her teachings, you will walk with us?"

"Yes."

"The Shadows won't feel anything different because they already felt you when they arrived?"

"Yes."

"Can others besides myself know you are with us?"

"Yes."

"You'll walk openly among Z'al?"

"Yes."

"Vir?"

"Yes?"

"Don't start that. Do you think that's a good idea? Or what are you thinking?"

"I'm thinking that Ari'ahn came to tell me something that I don't know and I'm going to listen. I think that Ari'ahn came to show the others something and I'm not going to stand in his way. As if I could. And, I'm thinking that they need this. How the others outside of headquarters learn about him, I haven't a clue but something tells me he does."

"Probably but you left off one other thing you're thinking."

"What?"

"That we can finally start building those ships."

"Yeah, that too."

"Ari'ahn?"

"Yes."

"Are you ready to travel down to the planet?"

"Yes."

Selene just turned and walked to the back to start putting the shipping crate together [Vir's gonna get spoiled. First time Ari'ahn says no, he's gonna faint.]

She's not sure, but Selene knows that Vir's got so many different secret projects going no one knows everything he's working on. She knows that as much as the Rangers have assisted going out on scouting missions, tossing around ideas of just what some of the information that they came up with means to the over-all war effort, or Shanmal running messages and reports, Vir was tight lipped on everything else. Their recruitment campaign, the camps, her actions on Babylon 5, the fact that he's been secretly building their future headquarters somewhere far enough from Centauri Prime but close enough to Centauri space to be effective and where he got the money from was a Z'al secret. There was no way he wanted anyone to know and none of them were talking.

At first, she thought that Vir's refusal to say when he first started to organize Centauri or how long he'd been working with them had something to do with not wanting others to think they were trained by the Rangers [well, except the denn'bok, they did show us that.] or some Anla'Shok knock off. But when Vir quietly pulled her aside and explained where the secret stash of money no one but the two of them were aware of came from, his role in G'Kar's escape and a few things he learned at the palace, she knew. He didn't want Centauri to think Z'al was trying to overthrow the Republic because of radical views about Narns. And, he didn't want them to be blamed or hunted for G'Kar's escape if Londo Mollari or Cartagia ever found out when he organized the group. Selene agreed with him keeping things secret, but for different reasons. She didn't want Vir to become a bigger target than he would once they start moving openly and actively fighting against the Shadows—and other Centauri.

Now she's wondering how he's gonna hide a Vorlon from the Rangers. He's not gonna want them to know when Ari'ahn arrived or how he got there 'cause they'll surely put that together with her arrival and figure she's doing a lot more on Babylon 5 than helping G'Kar. And, they'll realize where the ships she knows are gonna start rolling off the assembly line PDQ came from. Then they'll start wondering about the money and a lot of other things. She's wondering where he's gonna keep Ari'ahn for the next few weeks 'cause she's pretty sure the Vorlon isn't gonna want to hang out in his bathroom for very long.

Talia assumed command of White Star 14 while orbiting the station and remained in command for the rest of the shift. She gave no other order once she instructed the helm to match the Vorlon ship's course and speed. Then she was silent. Ops switched the main viewer on so that they could keep a constant visual lock on the ship with Fannol inside. Kesha was very surprised by Talia's demeanor and authority. She heard that message she recorded for her friends on the Council just like everyone else on the bridge. She also heard her quiet words to the Moon Shields and everyone could tell how much they seem to like each other. But, Talia Winters was obviously headed on some important mission and appeared to be as wrapped up in it as Fannol. She couldn't and didn't let friendship or sentiment get in the way. Later, Dulann and Kesha tried to speculate on what was to come.

"I cannot say Kesha. This is obviously something no one has experienced. We prepared the crew as best we could. I have no idea what lies ahead."

"Yeah, you're right. I'm just glad we're going to Vorlon space and not Z'ha'dum."

"You have a point. Still, I do not know how we will be received there."

"If we were facing certain danger or death, Talia and Fannol wouldn't have brought us along. They would BOTH be inside that Vorlon ship. She could have done like Ivanova and cleared the ship of all but non essential crew. She didn't."

Dulann thought about that for a few minutes.

"I have to accept that for now. Still, this is most unusual. I wonder how long we will be there. It shouldn't take more than a week travel time."

"How stocked is the med bay?"

"Overflowing."

"Which means he thinks we might be gone for a really long time or we're gonna have a lot of injuries."

"Your boundless optimism is refreshing."

"Cute, Dulann. We've talked about that. What about food stuffs?"

"I am surprised no one inquired or became suspicious of my actions earlier. We are fully stocked with about 6 months of provisions. Twice that if we start to ration now."

"Oh no. Let's not do that. The crew will panic. I doubt we'll be gone that long. And there's a good chance the Vorlons might have a McDonalds or something." That's the only thing she's found funny in this. She stands by her decisions but based on Talia's actions, they didn't actually have a choice. Now, she just hopes they make it through this.

"Humor? You must be nervous Kesha."

"A little."

"How can I help?"

"Start from the beginning. Tell me everything the Minbari know, think or feel about Vorlons and their interactions with them. I know my history from Ranger training and religious studies. I'm talking about all the myths, gossip, fairy tales, legends, and lore from when you were a child. Doesn't matter if you don't believe it. Tell me all the things that people dismiss today. Before the last Shadow war. Tell me about ancient Minbar. I need to know what happened before the time of Valen.