The Gathering of Souls IV

by evie4

Minbar's fate is sealed forever. Sheridan amazes everyone. Londo and Refa meet at last. Tafali works on his own theories about Selene & all the players get suited up.

3. Golgotha

When White Stars 3 and 14 jumped into station orbit, everyone knew it within minutes. What they didn't expect was what came with them. When they initially left, there was some concern within the Fleet that another secret mission was taking place until station Rangers spread the word they were simply gone to Tuzanor. That alerted everyone that Talia and Fannol's time away had not been pleasant. Susan hailed Garibaldi 'cause she knew he was going to want the Full Monty on this one before even considering bringing the captain in.

"They've been working on it for months. Since almost right after he returned. Apparently there was some debate about the design that held up actual construction."

"What do you mean about the design?"

"Considering the special circumstances and who he is, some folks wanted a lot of hoopla, bells and whistles. You know make it really stand out from the others."

"That's a security risk waiting to happen."

"Yeah, and that's why it looks almost the same as the others. This one is much bigger. We took a quick tour. You'll see on your inspection. And you'll love one extra special little treat they installed. Fannol and I got it too. Well, actually we were the lab rats they experimented on. For some reason they really didn't care if they blew up our ships but wouldn't take a chance with this one."

"I wonder why." Then they both laughed.

SEVERAL hours later and only after Garibaldi, Tathann and Marcus tested every single thing they could possibly test many, many times, they declared it safe. Michael actually gave it his personal stamp of approval with a nod. Nothing was said but every ship in the Fleet had their eye on them. They all were pretty sure they knew what was going on and none of those within the Minbari Fleet could stop talking about it. When station Rangers sent the word up that the captain and Entil'Zha were boarding a shuttle, they just knew were it was headed. The brand new White Star Prime had finally arrived. Michael, Susan and Tathann discussed it at length before consulting with John and Delenn. They felt that ½ of White Star 2's crew should be given to the captain because they have an understanding of his ways and will keep his secrets. Half of his security would be permanently assigned to the ship. The others had crew quarters but would remain on the station as long as he did. The rest of the crew would come from the Moon Shields and Fire Wings. Some Fire Wing Anla'Shok and the rest would be Warriors but Susan definitely assigned more Fire Wings than Moon Shields. She didn't know why, she just did. Delenn liked that suggestion and thought that it was time to even out some of the Fleet a bit more. She requested Warriors to supplement the rest of her crew as well. Those Warriors were as pleased as punch when they found out they were being selected to be a part of Entil'Zha's crew. Just so there'd be no hard feelings, Delenn asked for more Moon Shields than Fire Wings. She knew they'd have issues getting along and learning how to work together but she really didn't care. Delenn was Entil'Zha and she said they would learn to get along. They did.

Those within the Religious Caste are obviously very good at gathering information as well as everyone else. They had reports that the captain spent a considerable amount of time walking the garden or praying in the chapel. They were determined to make things much easier for him. White Star Prime was larger than the other ships for many reasons. It had a private garden as well as a main one for the entire crew. They felt this would give him the most privacy and comfort. He didn't miss that and was truly touched by their efforts. The chapel was also larger and had a separate entrance down another corridor next to the captain's quarters.

John Sheridan had to put up with more than a few looks and smirks from Michael and Susan over his quarters. More than twice the size as the last. Everything seemed to be designed specifically for two people to share comfortably. Their secret wasn't as much of a secret as they thought. Word had gotten out—with the utmost discretion and with the best of intentions, of course—that Captain Sheridan and Entil'Zha were engaged. No one knew when the wedding was to take place, but their information confirmed that the proposal was extremely formal and observed the strictest traditions of Delenn's clan. Therefore they assumed that the period of engagement would be as well. With the added distraction of the war, they knew neither would be sharing these quarters anytime soon, but they were ready.

He liked it. He liked having a ship again. Not that he didn't enjoy spending time on White Star 3. No, that was when he felt the most normal except among his friends on the Council. White Star 3 considered this and took it upon themselves to speak with Mr. Garibaldi about certain protocols that ought to be instituted from the beginning as well as codes of conduct for the crew due to the uniqueness of the situation. He almost laughed but Garibaldi knew he couldn't. White Star 3 was too much to deal with on a good day. Now that they saw the potential for Sheridan's privacy to be breached in some way, since they would no longer be protecting it, they felt it their duty to instruct the others. The new crew of White Star Prime got MORE than enough instruction on how to treat John Sheridan and what was required and expected of them. The Warriors embraced every single one of White Star 3's security protocols with glee and then became engrossed in how to combine them with their own techniques and Garibaldi's directives. At that point, Sheridan just got up and walked out of the room. He really didn't want to see the tissue paper before he was wrapped in it.

Michael had more cause for concern and worry than anyone knew. During the time the others were at Tuzanor, he watched the captain closely. He watched Stephen watch the captain closely. He did not like what he saw from a security perspective but he knew there might not be anything he could do about whatever was brewing. Tathann informed him that the captain had taken to visiting the Observation Dome in the middle of the night. Sure, its quiet then and most of the station is asleep, but he knew the signs. He was also walking the garden on the station once again. Station Rangers never got too close because they did not want the captain to feel like they were reporting on him specifically, but they were not blind. They went on alert as well.

Garibaldi instructed Tathann to go to an 8 person guard detail at all times, including when he was on White Star 3. He wasn't sure if he went too far when he directed that all the captain's meals come from and be prepared by White Star 2 from now on. That told Tathann everything he needed to know. Garibaldi also increased Lorien and Stephen's guards. They were now instructed to search Stephen's quarters thoroughly before he entered, just like the captain's. He knew his instincts were correct when he didn't hear a peep or complaint out of Stephen and that made him go on higher alert. Without going into details he told Marcus to quietly make some changes to Delenn's security as well then shuttled up to have a chat with some Warriors. He wanted Moon Shields to help out with station security for awhile. That's all he said. They thought he said more than enough. The last time they were brought in, there was a problem and it was the same day the captain returned.

Michael Garibaldi did not know what to think or what it meant when he got a report that Lorien dismissed his guards in the private bay and boarded his ship. He immediately contacted the captain to find out if he should send a ship in pursuit.

"No."

That's all he said. That told Garibaldi that whatever was to come, Lorien was not allowed to interfere or assist. He didn't like that at all since Lorien is the reason they got him back in the first place. That didn't stop him from heading up to C&C to covertly monitor the ship's destination. When he saw that it didn't head for the jump gate but for Epsilon 3, he wasn't sure if it were good or bad. Obviously, something was brewing but Michael figured that since Lorien is so old, 10 years or 10 days wouldn't really make a difference to him. He was very good at watching, waiting and being prepared to intervene. Garibaldi took up position to wait.

White Star 3 may not have known everything that was happening on the station but they knew enough to suspect some reason for what was happening on board their ship again. The dreams were back, there was no other explanation for her behavior. She was too calm, relaxed and happy when they left Tuzanor and she was in too good a mood when they first returned to the station. Two days later she was spotted walking the garden during her off duty time. Now she sits in the chapel all night. They monitor White Star Prime just as they had in the past. When they were informed that the captain does not sleep much because he is rarely in his quarters at night and constantly on the ship they knew to be very concerned. They thought for a moment and then informed the First Officer, who served as such before the captain went to Z'ha'dum, that Ivanova was spending nights in the chapel again and that she started walking the garden. White Star Prime finally admitted that the captain has returned to his old ways and comes on board in the middle of the night to sit in the chapel. They agreed to be more diligent in their observations and care of them both.

White Star 3 returned to a 4 person detail for Ivanova as soon as they saw that her condition was beginning to get to the point where it would be noticeable to others. Marcus, Garibaldi nor the station Rangers missed the additional guards. They all knew something was going to happen. They just did not know how long it would take. The captain's change took months and Ivanova can suffer through nightmares and dreams just as long. Marcus knew he'd have to say something to Lennier with regards to Delenn but wasn't sure how to handle it without getting him upset or worried. He figured he'd just go for it and see what happened.

"Lennier?"

"Yes."

"The captain has returned to late nights on his ship. We believe Susan is having the dreams again. They are both spending a considerable amount time in the chapel. This is not for you to share with anyone, including Delenn."

He doesn't like what he's just heard about the captain and Ivanova. Then he hears that last part and it makes Lennier stop and look at him questioningly.

"If he wanted her to know she would know. If the Universe wanted her to know, she would know. We do not want her to put herself at unnecessary risk. We do not know what is to come or who it involves. That is why I am not telling her. I am telling you this because I'm making some changes to her security and you need to be aware and alert."

[Finally they are taking precautions BEFORE a disaster strikes!] Lennier is eager to do anything that will protect Delenn so he has no problem with maintaining his silence.

Station Rangers saw all of this and more. They had recently developed their own protocols and put them into place. NO ONE missed the fact that Stephen was traveling to White Star Prime, White Star 3 and White Star 14 late at night. Not one of them thought it a sign of anything good to come.

Zack knew the chief very well. He also understood Anla'Shok and Minbari just as well. He kept his eyes open like station Rangers and noticed the captain going to the Observation Dome in the middle of the night like he did long ago. He said nothing but continued to observe. When he saw that the chief doubled Sheridan's guards at all times, he knew it was time for him to get to work as well. He started running drills with his special teams and had more sweeps of the station. More contacts were tapped in down below more frequently. Zack Allen wanted just as much if not more information as Garibaldi had access to from his own sources. He wanted to know if something more strange than usual was going to happen. He really wasn't sure what they could do if something like the thing that fought Kosh showed up, but he wanted them prepared. Yeah, his special teams were real special after all this time. They'd learned long ago what the deal was around there. Zack was sure to only select the ones who'd gone through all of Talia, Lennier and Kailenn's classes. He watched everyone in security like he watched those on the station. One just never knew when another Dr. Hobbs would rear its ugly head and he wanted to be ready.

Some of the station Rangers noticed Zack's rather intense regime with only certain members of security. They reported to Mai'lenn that he had them in vacant or secured areas of the station in riot gear running various simulations on a regular basis. They were also working on hand to hand combat and he was giving everyone performance tests with PPGs and compression rifles. He had others double checking the equipment at customs and increased security presence there as well. Then Zack replaced the security working the ambassadorial section with his people. Once he found out about G'Kar's alterations to his quarters he had that shut down completely and informed G'Kar that he would have to use the front door from now on. Then, just to be sure, he set up secure cams within the crawl space to monitor any potential threat. He actually wanted to move G'Kar to different quarters but decided to watch and wait. He definitely kept a close eye on Garibaldi and secretly assigned him security as well.

What no one knew was that he had the Narns members of security searching all cargo with scanners and randomly opening containers. Mai'lenn confided in Zack about the mysterious death of those Rangers on Earth and Mars as well as Entil'Zha's removal of all Rangers from there and the Centauri Republic. After learning that, Zack had a new protocol of his own to implement. Anything within two jump gates of Earth Alliance, a colony world or Centauri space was flagged, tagged, set aside, and got the royal inspection treatment. When Garibaldi saw the Narns one day, he asked what they were doing and why,

"Mr. Allen made some changes to station security procedures. All incoming and outgoing cargo is to be scanned and searched."

"Outgoing cargo? What are you scanning that for?"

They didn't want to say and sort of just stared blankly until he gave them the look and said to get on with it,

"Human and hybrid human Minbari DNA."

Garibaldi almost choked.

"Since when?"

"About two weeks ago. We aren't supposed to mention that scan to anyone. And only Narn members of security are to know he wanted it done."

Garibaldi thinks on that for a few moments. Yeah, its something he would have done if he'd thought about it. He's just wondering why Zack thought about it. The hybrid DNA is a dead give away and he has absolutely no doubt who the human DNA would belong to. [Damn, he's good!]

"Alright, carry on and like Zack said, NO ONE else is to know."

That caused Garibaldi to take a closer look at 'his' station as well as whatever Zack was up to with security. He was more than surprised and impressed with what he found. It alarmed him but also reassured him that his second in command was taking an active role in helping to protect the captain. What he really wanted to ask was how he knew to make certain changes. But since Zack did not inform him of these things, he felt he should not let him know he'd found out.

Selene knew something was different. The station didn't feel the same. All the Minbari and Anla'Shok seemed on alert or holding their breath about something. She noticed that Warriors were working station security but wasn't sure that was a bad thing or something out of the ordinary. She just had the feeling that things were different and it made her restless and uneasy. She and Marcus spent some free time together after that first evening where she went to apologize. He didn't seem to want to kill her or anyone else from her Order so she took that as a good sign. They relaxed a bit and it was nice to have someone else to talk to when the others were busy on their own projects. The last few times she ran into him he seemed tense. He wasn't rude but she got the definite impression that they wouldn't be hanging out for awhile.

Then she noticed G'Kar. He was spending quiet time alone in Grey 17's chapel. That wasn't so alarming or noticeable as the reaction of the other Narns. They gave him wide berth and stayed away when he was there. The other Z'al members who live there gave her a report,

"I don't know what it is all about and we don't think they do either. They just seem to sense that he must spend this time alone. It is very quiet when he comes."

She didn't know what to say. She had a suspicion that it was connected to whatever was going on with Marcus and the station. [Perhaps it is bad news about one of their plans for the war.] But then she dismissed that because others in the Fleet would have been told.

"Should we report this to Vir?"

"No. There have been 3 Anla'Shok inside Centauri space for months. They knew what we knew but they did not report it because they understood that we needed to be given time to learn things and handle the situation on our own. For a year before that, they kept Vir's secret and helped do something to redeem OUR sins against the Narns. They still keep our secrets. The War Council keeps our secrets. Not because they have to but because they feel it is not their's to interfere with. They ask no questions about us because they believe in the trust they extended to us that we will not do anything to jeopardize this station or the war effort. We do not report on them.

I do not know what is going on either. It feels more personal. These people here are like a family and they seem to know things about each other that is no one else's business. Whatever is happening is not Z'al business. Unless and until they ask for our assistance, we do not interfere. Of course we are always ready to help and will aid if requested."

And the reaction of the Narns in Grey 17 really should have told them something. They do not interfere or ask questions. They appear to simply be watching and waiting until a time when they are needed. Z'al decided to do the same.

All was quiet at Z'al headquarters once apologies were made, assurances of no repeat performances were given and all was forgiven by the Rangers. Everyone was pleased with the way the ships and the crews handled themselves. They started striking at the Shadows' smaller bases farthest from Centauri Prime so that it would seem like an attack from outside their boarders. They doubled up on the telepaths on board so that once they drove them from a planet or moon they could hit them fast and hard. They also hoped that would not alert the others to come to their aid or rescue. It was working. They were actually taking them out and it boosted their spirits.

Selene reported that G'Kar informed Mr. Garibaldi exactly how the Narns were brought onto the station and that avenue was now being shut off. He said that no more Narns could be brought in until further notice but gave Selene no more details than that. That was strange and they all had to wonder why G'Kar wouldn't want anymore of his people there with him but they accepted it and moved on.

A message came in from Shanmal and Vir let the Rangers know they had mail. No one knows what was in that recording but for the first time since they entered Centauri space all of them were seen in uniform heading outside not too long after getting it that evening. They were carrying a box of something no one knew what was in it and they didn't speak. They headed out into an open area of the grove and set up some kind of alter and lit candles.

Ok, they wouldn't think that weird considering their own circumstances but everyone knew or got the feeling that Anla'Shok and Minbari were very intense and very private about their religious practices. Tafali thought that whatever they were doing had to be related to what was in that message. He didn't think it was a simple ceremony or a remembrance either. They were too focused and too worried about something. The next morning someone commented that they had been out there all night. They hadn't stopped praying at all. Not until the sun came up and they went to their rooms.

"Perhaps it was some ritual that requires the offering of all night prayers."

"Maybe, but I'm not sure. They're still at it."

"I thought they came in hours ago and went to their rooms. Surely they're asleep after last night."

"Yes, they went to their rooms for a about an hour. Then they all met in Lydia's. They haven't been out since."

"Alright. Leave them to their privacy and quiet. It is not our business unless they confide in us, which is unlikely, or they request our assistance."

Everyone accepted it the first day and the second but the third day of them not leaving Lydia's room, answering the door, or eating was cause for great concern. Vir did not know what he should do but he feared something happened to them inside. Tafali was getting nervous as well.

"Do you think we should peek in on them? Just to make sure they're still alive and breathing?"

"Yeah, we better. I don't want to disturb them or interrupt but three days is a long time. Just the two of us will go check on them. We don't want to invade their privacy or alarm the others."

They opened the door slightly to see the three of them kneeling in front of that same alter they'd taken to the garden with candles lit as they had been that night. Neither knew specifically what they were praying about but could tell it had to be extremely serious by their demeanor, expression and the tears. There was no doubt about it, the Rangers had to have felt something was very wrong. Satisfied that they were still alive though they did not seem alright in the least, Vir and Tafali left them to their privacy. That's when they saw Ari'ahn coming down the hallway towards Lydia's room.

"Ari'ahn do you know why the Anla'Shok are in that room?"

"Yes."

"Why?"

"Faith. Prayer. Protection."

Trying to augment that answer with some adjectives, a verb or two, and a subject, Vir took a shot.

"Ari'ahn, has something bad happened to the Minbari or Anla'Shok?"

Tafali's catching on but hopes it isn't what he's thinking.

"Soon." Then he turned and walked passed them and entered Lydia's room.

"How do you learn anything from him?"

"It takes practice and hard work but I'm starting to catch on a little."

"Fine. Explain things."

"Something very bad and very serious is going to happen to the Minbari and Anla'Shok. The Rangers are in there praying their righteous hearts out and their faith is so strong that they believe it will protect the others from whatever's going on. Whatever is going to happen will happen soon. But who knows what soon is to a Vorlon. It could be tomorrow or 20 years from now."

Tafali just stared at Vir.

"I'm truly impressed with you. You got all of that out of four words. Not one of them a verb."

When Vir informed the others not to disturb the Rangers in any way or interfere they all knew something was up. When he said that they were not to open their door or attempt to enter their room in anyway they were at full alert. [What could they possibly be doing in there that would cause him to say something like that?]

By the 5th day, three of them decided that they could follow Vir's orders and gather information using good old fashioned surveillance—and the air ventilation unit. They justified it as keeping tabs on them. Really, Z'al was supposed to be protecting them. None of them had eaten in 5 days. Humans could die from something like that, surely within a few more hours! How could they protect them when they could not assist because they did not understand the problem? The logic was sound enough for them so they went for it. And that's when they saw what Vir did not want them to see. So they understood some of what was going on but not much else. The three Rangers looked so distressed and shaken their hearts went out to them. The fact that Ari'ahn was apparently holding vigil with them—if standing silently in the corner counts—impressed upon them the seriousness of the situation. Whatever was in that message from Shanmal caused this reaction.

They wanted to find out if Selene knew anything on the station but felt they had gone too far and breached Vir's orders. Now they understood what he meant by not needing to know or concern themselves in certain affairs of others. Definitely chastised, they decided that they would offer assistance the way they should have from the beginning and the three of them set out together to offer up prayers on their behalf.

"They are being shielded."

"How is that possible? From us?"

Some times he regrets having taught certain lessons too well.

"Galen, regardless of what you were taught, yes. The Vorlons are more powerful than us."

This is news to him. Though he really hasn't had any dealings with Vorlons at all. He's not sure any of his kind have. Except Belial. But that caused her to repay a 3,000 year old debt. He wonders exactly what the Vorlon did to help her. As much as he tries to pretend he doesn't care, he is a bit curious to know what that thing was. How could Belial hold on to something that long without being tempted to sneak a peek? No matter it isn't relevant to the situation.

"Alright, they are more powerful but what is power when one does not use it? They do not involve themselves in certain matters. They do not attempt to stop the very thing they stand against. Darkness, chaos. Either they are not powerful enough to defeat it or they simply don't care. As for those two, we didn't get to hear all that they discovered. Did you notice that certain times their was no sound?"

"Yes. That is one of the things that concerned me initially. Many others are watching them. That means many others know that WE are watching them. Or at least we were until they got near the exit of the jump gate."

Galen thinks about that for a few minutes then turns to his mentor genuinely curious,

"So, it is not a simple myth or something the youngest of us are told to keep us in line? We cannot enter Vorlon space?"

Erlich now sees that he is catching on. That means he will have many questions about his training and beliefs that Erlich cannot answer himself. Not since those two Rangers started speculating on a few things he never considered before.

"No. It is not a myth or something to keep you all from running off in search of windmills or fairy tales. We cannot enter their space. Their power is greater than ours. Whether the Vorlons use their power or not doesn't make them any less powerful. It makes them strange and cryptic. But we always knew that."

"What did they mean about the true face of a Vorlon? I thought they were simply energy based life forms of some kind and had no shape or appearance. That is what others have said."

He did not want to get into this. There is no way for him to get around it.

"We cannot see the true face of a Vorlon. It is beyond our power and our understanding."

This doesn't make sense to Galen. How is that possible? Erlich is saying that those two limited and powerless Rangers sitting around speculating on things beyond them can see what they cannot see? Have some kind of power they do not have. Impossible!

"Explain this. You do not mean what I think you mean."

"If you are wondering if there are greater powers in the universe than those we know and see, yes. If you are wondering if those from the younger races have powers greater than we, yes. Humans and Minbari are causing a great deal of trouble for us when they work together. They see things and feel things others do not. It is a power that even those from the other younger races don't have. I suspect there are quite a few First Ones who cannot see, feel, or know what these humans and Minbari do. Why? I do not know. I am almost certain the answer to that was in some of the things they said which we were not permitted to hear. Who has the power to do that Galen? And why?"

He does not know. He decides to skip it.

"Fine. What are we supposed to do with our plan? If we can't find them, we can't carry it out."

"We still keep our eyes open for them. The Vorlons will not shield them forever. They couldn't possibly do that? Instead we start watching others. And, we keep a closer eye on that station."

"That will be difficult. Kosh and the one we do not know did something to it. No one can penetrate it. No one can see inside. We will have to go there."

"NO! Not yet. There are many different things playing out. Certain ones will be alerted to our presence if we were to go now."

"What do you mean alerted? There is no Vorlon there anymore. And the one we do not know, keeps to himself, so I am told."

"The one who visited Belial is there. She would know. There is a Soulwalker on board that station. We did not know that when we were there in the past. He will know. I begin to suspect there are others there almost as gifted as he. Perhaps one of them would know as well. What Sheridan did at Z'ha'dum pushed the Shadows closer into our sphere of influence. They are not the masters they think they are. Greedy. They want everything and can never hold onto anything."

"True. I like our way best."

"Exactly. Less complicated and more efficient."

When they finish viewing the preparations of another they turn to each other and smile.

"Good. But there are a few others who need to be dealt with. I believe three to be exact."

"Yes. It will definitely put the fear into those they are helping. They shouldn't last long. Or at least, they should learn their place."

"We don't want them gone yet. They are also going to solve our problem with the Shadows. Let's allow them to destroy as many as they can. Then the Shadows can finish them off for us."

"Now you are thinking."

Susan woke in the middle of the night and ran from her quarters barefoot and in her night gown straight to the shuttle bay. The guard outside her door was taken completely by surprise, she didn't have any warning. They barely had time to get her pilot in the shuttle before Susan jumped in. She was shaking and unnerved but focused. Taking one look at the way she was dressed and her lack of shoes, everyone assumed where she wanted to go and didn't ask. White Star 3 hailed White Star 14 as soon as someone saw her running to the shuttle bay to alert them of her arrival. They had no idea what to make of White Star 14's reaction so they said nothing and ended the transmission. Only Ivanova's guards would know why.

No matter how often it happened, White Star 3 still never got used to it. They knew the signs. They knew the dreams came first and then would progress into nightmares. They knew the captain's behavior and feared that this was connected to it. They knew it was. The secret White Star 14 wanted kept a secret was that it was not just Ivanova having the dreams. Fannol was as well. Unfortunately, there was no way to prevent anyone from finding out and they gave the crew of White Star 3 the death glare of silence for life. Kesha would have been proud of them.

It probably wasn't the most dignified way for an Anla'Shok or a Fleet Commander to be seen but she really didn't care. The only thing she knew was that she had to get to Fannol as soon as possible. She felt him in the throws of an intense nightmare even if she couldn't see anything clearly. It really didn't matter. So, his guards were stationed outside his door and her's were running behind her trying to catch up as she barreled down the corridor. Just before she got to the door she, well they all, heard him shouting. Screaming incoherent sounds at the top of his lungs. It had to be bad. She couldn't remember once ever hearing him raise his voice. This was not good. She motioned everyone away from the door, looked dead at her guards and said "you know nothing!" Then she went inside, locking the door behind her. They heard it lock and they knew she meant for them to stay out and stay away while they stayed silent.

She did not know if she should wake him but she had to stop his agony. In that moment she cursed herself for every single nightmare she'd caused him to endure. If he felt as helpless and frightened as she did just one of those times he came to her aid, it was one time too many. He wasn't awake and he was still shouting so she climbed into the bed and grabbed hold of him and held him tightly in her arms hoping that the physical connection would help to chase off his demons. Then she concentrated on sending him calm and soothing feelings hoping that would do it. It seemed to work because he quieted down after a few minutes and seemed to drift off to sleep. She had no idea what he saw or what he knew but whatever it was to cause that reaction had to be something very bad.

White Star 14 had double duty that night because they were also watching Talia. She had been in the chapel for hours. Before that she wandered around the ship as if trying to take her mind off of whatever was happening. They didn't like it. The last time Fannol, Talia and Susan had a reaction at the same time, Kosh died fighting that creature.

While all of this was going on, White Star Prime was growing concerned. Those who served under the captain before explained things to the new members of the crew and his guards. It didn't actually help. And the ones who had gone through it before could not turn their minds from his leaving for Z'ha'dum. They knew something was coming but could not tell when or how bad it would be. They knew the captain's associate was down on the planet. He'd been there for weeks. They had no idea what that meant. The Soulwalker's visits do not reassure anyone. They monitor the captain when he is in the garden. They see him deep in thought and agonizing over something. Tonight he has been in the chapel for hours. He would not allow his guards to enter. Tonight they got too many surprises. Tonight they learned too many things.

White Star 3 contacted White Star Prime to inform them of Susan's actions and her appearance when she left. The fact that her guards gave no details, other than to say she is visiting Fannol, tells White Star 3 that Fannol's condition is so extreme that she swore them to silence. They do not mention that to White Star Prime. It didn't matter. Captain Sheridan's crew had heard quite enough, thank you very much, when they heard that Ivanova had to make a house call to Fannol! They asked about Talia and then wished they hadn't. White Star 2 contacted White Stars Prime, 3 and 14 in a three way secured communication demanding to know what was going on. That was strange and everyone wanted to know why. Then they wished they hadn't asked. Marcus Cole came on board in the greatest state of distress they have ever seen him in. They said he spoke to no one as he raced through the ship and shut himself up in the chapel. Someone tried to check on him but the doors are sealed and they have been trying for some time but cannot over-ride the lock. In the middle of their report they stopped to amend that the Soulwalker just came on board. He headed straight for the chapel without a word and opened the door as if it weren't locked. Yeah, nobody wanted to hear that.

Zack just KNEW something was going to happen soon. He could not say how he did, he just did. All the times in the past, things happened slowly and were a bit drawn out before they got real dramatic. It had been a month of strangeness. A month of Captain Sheridan not sleeping and spending all night on his ship. A month of Susan's extra guard detail and her looking like she's kick boxing in her sleep. A month of Stephen making late night trips checking on those on their ships. But when he saw Marcus Cole running to the shuttle bay he knew he was right. That was the most solid person he knew other than the chief, who let nothing spook him, so seeing that was more than enough for him to step up his attentions to those under his care. Yeah, it was the middle of the night but if he weren't up doing a walk through of the station, he would've missed Cole. He checked and verified that he went to White Star 2. Zack figured that meant he was either going to the garden or the chapel. But the way he was out of sorts and plain coming apart, he was certain he wasn't going to the garden. That's when he called Mai'lenn and asked her to meet in private so they could talk. He told her what he just saw of Cole and where he was headed. After they settled down to business and compared notes, station Rangers informed Mai'lenn that Dr. Franklin just left the station. It was 2am! He was hardly making a house call of a medical nature. Zack confirmed with C&C that he headed for White Star 2. They both looked at each other,

"Something's going to happen soon."

"I agree. Whatever is to come is near. I just have no idea what that could be."

Susan held on and did not let go. She felt him slipping into consciousness and was relieved to feel his level of distress had decreased though it had not diminished. She had to smile at his expression. He seemed down right shocked to see her in his bed. Obviously, the events of a few hours ago were coming back to him slowly and in small pieces 'cause he didn't remember her coming in at all. Then he sort of gave an embarrassed smile and actually blushed. She decided not to tease him and snuggled closer tightening her embrace while stroking his cheek. He laughed and she felt relief that he seemed to be coming back to himself.

"Thank you. It must have been something."

"There is nothing to thank me for. Do you remember anything?"

Then she felt him tensing up and could tell his anxiety level was increasing as he thought on the nightmare. She quickly intervened,

"I mean me coming into your room. Or helping myself to half your bed."

That did the trick and he laughed a little.

"Actually, no. And since I am unaccustomed to people doing either, it is something I should have noticed."

"Nah, I'm real quiet when I want to be."

He knew she was trying to distract him and he was touched by it as well as her attentiveness. He wondered for a moment how she knew to come over, then he remembered and smiled.

"I think I'll be fine now. I'll go back to sleep."

"Is that your way of kicking me out now that I've gotten all comfortable?"

She knows he just wants to hide the possibility of another nightmare from her. Why he's bothering to try to send her away is beyond her. If he does have another one she's going to know it and come back. She thinks that's just plain silly because he ought to know he can't hide anything from her.

He picked up on that entire train of thought and smiled to himself.

"Of course not. I would never deprive you of comfort."

"Thank you."

They managed to get through what was the rest of the night without incident. This was an eye opener for both White Star 14 and Susan's guards. Apparently, the nightmare thing worked both ways. They both have the same effect on each other and both can relieve the intense distress of the other. That was good to know.

While all of this was happening on and around Babylon 5, things in the universe were definitely heating up. Too many factions had too much information from watching Kesha and Dulann work through various theories. Most of them were shut out of the most important information the same as Galen and Erlich. That did not stop them from speculating nor did it keep them from coming to some of the same conclusions as to just who their biggest problems were or where they were. A plan was set in motion for solving one of those problems unfortunately, they were too late. No one on the station realized that they weren't getting any communications from Minbar. Those who needed to send messages did so, but for the last week, no on bothered to attempt any live transmissions. If they had, they would have been alerted to the problem.

The last thing Shanmal was able to do was to get a message out to the Anla'Shok within the Centauri Republic. Each of the three of them seemed a bit distracted earlier in the day but really didn't know why. They initially attributed their feelings to the offensive Shadow attack Z'al started. They were planning to go out as crew with the ships at the end of the week. Somehow they each just knew that message was the reason they were feeling off center or out of sorts. Never in a million years did they ever think Shanmal would send them a message like that. What did it mean? It meant something more serious than any of them could imagine. Were these the last days the Oracle was meant to signal? They did not know. Their minds all turned to Babylon 5 and the War Council with that thought. It was too much and too dangerous. Entil'Zha, the Oracle, a Soulwalker, Isil'Zha (and they weren't sure the identity of the others but they were absolutely certain that Cole, Talia and Fannol were just as deep in it as the rest of them with some very specific purpose and gifts) all of them concentrated in the same place. All of them at great risk. They only hoped that their leaders would be blessed and spared what was to come.

But Malcolm, Lydia, and Adam also realized what was going to happen to them. It was not such a difficult thing to figure out. There were only two things they could do. First they prayed. At the same time across the galaxy, others were making decisions. High above the stars, the Grey Council wasn't exempt from certain dangers of the universe. Nor did they think themselves above them. They saw all they needed to see and as reports started coming in from around the Minbar and the Federation. A few wondered if Delenn's coming and what happened during her visit was a sign of this or the reason for it. They all felt absolutely positive that she had some part in what they were witnessing. There just couldn't be any other reason. No vote was necessary for this course of action when they looked to one another. They knew what they had to do quickly, while they still had a chance. For the first time in 1,000 years the Grey Council actually landed their ship on the planet.

Londo Mollari was summoned by Cartagia for a consultation. He didn't know what that meant considering the idiot had locked him away in his suite for months. Londo tried his absolute best not to think about what was possibly happening to his precious home world and his people while the fool continued his alliance with the Shadows. He had no idea if the war had ended or if it was still going strong. None of the servants were permitted to give him any information. The one who lost his tongue talking about the weather was a lesson for them all.

When Londo stepped into the audience chamber he saw that he was not alone. [Refa! What is he doing here?] Then Londo looked him over and saw that the man did not look well or comfortable in the least about being there. He hoped there weren't any telepaths in the room because he just decided on a firm course of action as soon as he could get an update on the war situation.

"Mollari! How good to see you again. You're looking rested."

He nodded but really wanted to choke the life out of him,

"Yes. I feel in good health. Enough about me. How are you your majesty?"

"Bored."

"Bored? You are the Emperor of the Great Centauri Republic. How could you be bored?"

"True. But, it isn't enough." Then he flounced over to the throne and sat down.

Refa made eye contact with Londo. As much as Londo wanted him dead, he saw something in Refa's eyes that made him pause. Whatever Cartagia has come up with next, whatever he's gotten them into, has shaken Refa to the core. Londo studies him carefully and sees a man who just realized he couldn't bargain himself out of a deal with the devil and whatever the Shadows did for him in the past, wasn't enough to warrant the price they are demanding now. Londo held his eye and nodded slightly to acknowledge that he got the message. [Yes, we will have to call a truce Refa, in order to solve this mess. Then you will pay.]

Knowing in his heart he did not want to know, Londo did his duty and asked anyway,

"What would be enough your majesty? What would you like?"

"To be a god!" He didn't miss a beat. As stupid as Londo thought that was, one glance at Refa told him that Cartagia thought he'd figured out a way to do it. Londo took his time, thought over the situation, knew it was something he asked Morden for and the Shadows said yes even though they couldn't give it to him. What more could they want than to have taken over their home world?

"I see. Well, your majesty, you are like a god to the Centauri. You are our Emperor."

"Of course. But why limit myself to the Centauri when I can be a god throughout the universe?"

He doesn't like this one bit. Instead of wading through whatever is left of Cartagia's higher brain functions trying to decipher the truth, Londo just asks him to explain. When Cartagia finished, it was all he could do to keep his countenance. [Great Maker!]

Not knowing why the Rangers were still on their prayer vigil and fasting was causing some of the members of Z'al grave concern. They knew it had to be something very bad and they worried for them. Those who spied on them had taken up a prayer vigil of their own on their behalf without saying a word to anyone, but the others guessed what they were doing. Vir approved. At the same time they were moving closer and closer to where they needed to be—Centauri Prime.

White Stars Prime, 2, 3, and 14 made it through the night though they had no idea what to make of anything that happened. Their leaders got up, dressed and headed down to the station as if nothing happened. None of the Rangers or Warriors understood how they could do that but were impressed by their strength. Zack and Mai'lenn worked late into the night. He felt that even with the Moon Shields working security, the station was vulnerable in other ways. She agreed as they combined their efforts. They did decide that undercover Rangers needed to spend some more time in down below just in case. He was also going to put his special teams on 24 hour standby. Zack thought that while they were preparing for a frontal assault by someone or something and all their attention was focused on that, it would be the perfect time for them to get hit from behind.

"Are you sure you are not Anla'Shok?"

"No, I'm not."

Mai'lenn was teasing when she asked, but his tone and reply stopped her short. She looked at him for a long moment and then nodded.

"Neither am I."

Then they set to work.

Everyone gathered round the table and everyone knew it wasn't gonna be good. Everybody knew, this was the end. Steeling themselves, they each turned to the captain who was silent.

"Z'al is driving them from the outer planets in a scatter shot formation but we know they're making their way to Centauri Prime. That's fine, but its not what we have to do."

Its one thing to know you gotta do something, its another thing to actually know the plan and the Captain is the only one who knows the plan so they still just stare.

"Which one of you has a report to make?"

That was a surprise. He saw their surprise but ignored it. Any one of them could have known whatever was to come. He didn't rule out anybody in this group, but his money was on Fannol or Talia with Marcus riding a close second. Fannol cleared his throat.

"The Shadows unleashed what is known as a planet killer last night on Talis 7. Everyone and everything on the planet is dead. They were testing it and sending us a message at the same time."

Then he just falls silent and waits for them to digest that serious piece of information. All those people dead. Michael is usually the first one to gain his voice but not this time. G'Kar asks the question nobody really wanted to have confirmation on but knew they needed to know,

"Testing it and sending us a message. What is their intended target?"

"Minbar."

They felt it. They suspected it, but to hear him say the word was too much for every single one of them. And every single one of them barely whispered, "In Valen's name" before silence reigned.

She wondered why she didn't have the dream. She wondered why she couldn't see his nightmare. When he said that last part, she knew exactly why that was kept from her. And she felt bad for him.

Captain Sheridan let them absorb that before moving on.

"They have another stop to make first and we're going to see that they do."

Delenn only manages,

"What of the station?"

"What is to be, will be."

Talia can't help it and starts taking surreptitious glances at Marcus out of the corner of her eye. Sure enough, she can see the faint glimmer and decides to intervene quickly,

"I think we need to call a short time out captain."

They know it's a lot to deal with but she shouldn't need a break from this yet. They haven't even started laying out the plan.

"I don't need one. I'm saying whether we want it or not, we're getting an intermission. The winds are about to start blowing." Then she rolled her eyes because no one seemed able to figure out what she was saying. Finally, she just crooked her head toward Marcus.

G'Kar hadn't had this treat before so it was brand new for him. He wondered for a moment if flowers and music came with it but dismissed that thought. This was obviously something very specific. As if on cue, Talia turned to G'Kar and motioned for him to take her hand if he wanted to know. Really it wasn't necessary but she didn't want to just pop into his head and figured he'd have to give actual consent by holding her hand. He agreed readily and his eyes bulged at the response he was given.

Garibaldi contacted security and asked for an update. Then he told Zack to send out patrols everywhere. Talia orders White Stars Prime, 3, and 14 to jump from orbit, activate their new defense shield, start running scans and if they don't find anything to return through the jump gate while running sensors for anything that might be waiting in hyper space then take up defensive position in another location. Without missing a beat, Delenn links in to all station Rangers and tells them to surface, be watchful and be prepared for whatever is to come. Susan hailed the Fleet in orbit and told them to all go to Red Alert indefinitely and to be combat ready. Pleased with this early warning Darkness detection system Marcus seems to provide and aware that the quick responses of the others means they've done this before, Sheridan just smiles.

As soon as Zack got the word from Garibaldi to step up patrol he contacted his teams and told them to suit up and spread out. Then he set the chief's orders in motion. They all knew something wasn't right and that it would be coming so they were already geared up. It didn't take long for some of the Fleet to contact Mai'lenn with Ivanova's Red Alert order. They also reported the White Stars that jumped and thought that very odd since all their captains were still in the War Room. "What could they be doing?" Then she linked into Zack and gave her report. When he told her the chief's orders and what he did in addition she smiled. Yeah, Mai'lenn's thinking he's definitely Anla'Shok.

They each rose to go out and face whatever was about to come but Garibaldi stopped them,

"Captain, I don't think you and Stephen should be out in the open." He really didn't want to lose those either of them! Stephen surprised them all,

"We have to be there."

Not able to argue or contradict him, they all just nodded some kind of finality and moved toward the door. Selene knew something was to come. The feel of the station moved again and it was something she felt on the inside rather than what was coming from outside. One of their ships in orbit contacted her to say that Ivanova put everyone on Red Alert and ordered combat readiness indefinitely. "That is all I needed to know. Follow all her orders and be prepared." When she signed off, she headed straight to the Zocolo because she now had confirmation of her feeling that something was going to happen. She was determined to be on hand to assist in any way she could.

They had been locked away for a over a week. They did not eat or sleep. All they did was pray and prepare their hearts and minds. Now they knew they didn't have much time. As if something was moving in all of them, they extinguished the candles, stood and nodded to one another. Adam and Malcolm left to get ready while Lydia tidied up, showered and got dressed. She polished everything until it shone. Her denn'bok never sparkled like that before. They met in the hall and started down the corridor together as they headed for the front door. This drew the attention of others. Everyone knew the Anla'Shok had their ways. This was different. But to see them finished with their fasting and praying didn't give anyone comfort. They should have been famished, light headed or a little weak. They didn't seem to be and they didn't seem to be headed for the cafeteria either.

Word spread that the three of them were moving silently but purposefully out of the complex and the others wondered if they should follow.

"You told us that some times we should not interfere and know when to not concern ourselves in the affairs of others. Something is going on and something is going to happen. Shouldn't we do something."

"That's a lot of somethings Dirani. I agree I am curious and concerned. We do not interfere unless they request our assistance and we stay out of their way. Tafali you Dirani, and Telien, come with me. Something tells me this is more than serious, and its private."

"Then why are we going?"

"We have to be there."

Absolutely no one knew what any of this meant. Rathenn, Turval and Durhan were of the same opinion as the Nine. But they also had other information. Talia and Fannol's trip to the Vorlon home world then their coming here. The timing of these events was more than significant to all of them. They knew there was potential for panic. The prophecy of the Oracle wasn't sitting so easy with some people now as they remembered that part about her arriving in the last days. Then most tried to content themselves with the words she uttered, the prophecy she did give them. It had not come to pass yet so they calmed themselves and went about the business of preparing the best they knew how.

None of the station Rangers wanted to see the War Council moving openly about the station. But they would not be deterred. None of them wanted to see that denn'bok strapped to Entil'Zha's waist because that meant she had every intention of getting in the middle of whatever was to come. Mai'lenn instructed all Rangers that Lennier was not to be told this least he suffer a coronary while trying to prevent her. And absolutely nobody wanted to see Isil'Zha loading and checking the settings on his PPG. People were obviously aware that something was going on. Residents of the strangeness that is B5 knew to take cover and get out of the way. Others did not. Mai'lenn and Zack were not actually discrete with their additional measures. Then again, neither of them intended to be. Garibaldi did a double take when he saw a few groups that obviously looked like specially trained and organized teams in full riot gear. He knew that was all Zack and had to smile. [Is he trying to take my job?] Moon Shields weren't taking any chances. How they got their swords on board the station was a minor mystery to Michael and Marcus who just sort of looked at each other then shrugged. If it did the trick, it did the trick.

The telepath and non telepath Z'al crew members in the Fleet were still not assured that Cole would not kill them on sight. They weren't taking any chances by traveling to the station. Unfortunately, that meant those on the station traveled to the ships to spend time with the others. Selene was the only one left on board but because of Ivanova's Red Alert, she told them to remain with the ships and be prepared to defend against attack. They asked if they should try to send a shuttle down for her but she said that Darkness was close and she would do any and everything to stand with the others and fight it. When Marcus saw Selene moving into position, obviously prepared to jump head long into whatever was to come, he couldn't help but smile. She wasn't asked or informed but she heard the call to order.

Vir's group left to check on the Rangers but the others decided they needed information as well. Those who were offering prayers had not stopped. It seemed like they stepped up their praying a bit without being told the others were moving. The grounds around the headquarters had surveillance cameras installed so that they could be on alert for some attack. They decided that anything that would move Anla'Shok to act as they had this past week or leave the building with that great a sense of purpose was cause to link into the system and watch whatever was to come.

They stood with their back to one another. It is the best the three of them could do to protect their rear while keeping their eyes pealed for what was to come. Their senses were primed, their bodies were tightly coiled, they were ready and they knew it. The devil is rarely fashionably late, nope, this day his was right on time. And, he brought some friends. Several. They would not be moved and they would not bow down to this. Whatever they were with their shaved heads and black capes, they were ready for them. The Centauri immediately knew who and what those were standing at arms facing the Rangers. None of them thought this was going to play out well for the Anla'Shok. Then they considered that it probably wouldn't play out well for them either. They held back to see what the Rangers had in mind. Surely they were going to try to actually fight Technomages! That couldn't be done.

An attack of some sort started but they didn't move. They didn't draw their denn'boks nor did they draw their swords. That was a surprise to the others, they didn't know Rangers used swords. Then they figured it must be part of their battle uniform only and that's why added it today. It seemed to some of them watching over the monitors that this was the end for them. Why they wouldn't defend themselves, no one knew. Dirani turned to Vir and asked if they should intervene now and was confused when Vir said they could not.

What he saw then really confused him. It was pretty clear that people outside the Minbari do not understand Rangers or the ways of the Anla'Shok. But this was too much. While they were staring in amazement and horror at what was about to be a massacre from his vantage point, the Rangers seemed ready to just lay down and die. They just stared at the Technomages like they were waiting for something to happen. Vir and Tafali watched all of this, trying to gain some understanding while accepting what they knew was true. Dirani's reaction was also had inside the complex as confusion over what they were seeing and the Ranger's lack of action made everyone uneasy. In the end, there was no massacre. The—whatever it was that attacked did not harm them in the end. The Rangers still did not move. Nor did they take their eyes from the Technomages. They were still primed to attack or defend.

[What is going on? Why didn't they move?] The Technomages look at each other in confusion, then decide not to show any outward signs of emotion and to only communicate telepathically with each other. This goes on for some time but the Rangers still do not move. No matter what comes at them. Its now fascinating for the others to watch. They are catching on to what's happening though all are confused why they see things and the Rangers do not.

Sensing that things aren't going exactly as they planned, they decide to unleash the hounds for real and see what the praying warriors can do. That was all it took and the three snapped into action. Only when they moved was everyone certain that something was actually real. They fought. It was brutal and gruesome and amazing to watch the three of them against whatever those things attacking them were. They were out numbered but they continued to fight. They were surrounded but they continued to fight. They wouldn't stop. The Technomages laughed, now they were having fun. It didn't matter to the Rangers, if they were going to die it was going to be for the One not for some wanna be goth, power tripping Houdini.

All those at Anla'Shok headquarters and the Tuzanor training camp got another shock on top of the one they were just starting to come to terms with. It didn't take long for everyone to see the unbelievable sight of the ENTIRE Grey Council robed and hooded step through the doors and make their way to Rathenn. No one even knew that they had left the ship. Soon they learned the unimaginable and impossible, the ship landed and the Nine actually walked off! No one knew what this meant. Why the Nine had come to them in what surely seemed to be Minbar's final hour. Much speculation occurred in hushed and private quarters least they be overheard. No one could come to a definitive answer on whether their presence was a good sign or not. Nor could they determine if it was even a sign or simply a coincidence.

Turval was shocked. Durhan was as well, but he hid it better. He knew they were all afraid of him. He liked it that way, it assured him that on some level all was normal and as it should be. None of them spoke until they were in private. The hoods certainly weren't necessary since the Three were the ones to call them together on Delenn's behalf. In that they like to think of themselves as her partners in reconvening the Nine. Never mind that they came in after the hard part was done. Rathenn decides to get this ball rolling,

"It is a surprise to see all of you here."

"Perhaps. Where would you expect us to be at a time such as this?"

"Others would not have left the ship. Had this happened at another time, they would not have come here."

"You chose this over returning to the Council. Everyone knows you could have been the one to stand beside the Nine. But you chose this place instead. Why Rathenn?"

"This is the other place where the Universe's plan unfolds."

They all look at him questioningly and someone turns to him,

"The other place? Where is the other place?"

"Babylon 5."

They've seen strange and unusual and down right out of this world before. They, not one of them, ever saw anything like this. Zack and Mai'lenn decided earlier to keep their links open so that they could be in constant communication with each other. Garibaldi felt absolutely no satisfaction at being right so many months ago. Everybody coming to see Mohammed wasn't a believer. They weren't Shadow agents with Keepers, they were something MUCH worse. Shadow soldiers. They came out of no where and they were everywhere. Ranger, Warrior, Selene, Narn and station security were in full fight mode. Someone must have slipped up and told Lennier because he was fit to be tied when he ran out of the lift to see Delenn wielding a denn'bok fighting some THING along with the rest of them. Sheridan looked over at her out of the corner of his eye while reloading and smiled. [Oh yeah, I definitely love that woman] Then he thought about it and realized he wanted to learn how to use one of those. Then he thought he should think about that after they survive this.

Everybody got a bit of a surprise when they looked over and saw Selene whip out some blue cylinder object that they at first thought was a denn'bok until they saw it extend. Marcus was so impressed by what he saw, he wasn't paying attention and almost lost his head—literally. He saw her handling it and getting into the thick of things and had to smile. Then he realized that there was much fighting and much action of his own to be had so he whipped out his denn'bok and jumped into it with full force. [It feels like home]

Zack and Mai'lenn weren't buying it. They were still sticking to his theory. She contacted the Minbari ships in the Fleet to let them know that EVERYONE was engaged in hand to hand combat on the station.

"Everyone?"

"I had no idea that the Soulwalker even owned a denn'bok let alone knew how to use one! He is in the middle of it!!! These are Shadow soldiers and not sentient life forms so he has no ethical problems fighting off their biotechnology."

"We did not realize. Entil'Zha surely is not."

"Entil'Zha surely is. When I say everyone, I mean EVERYONE. Talia is throwing them around like someone swatting flies. We know it is her doing that though the others do not. Ivanova and Cole look like they are having fun. What is your status? If we are being attacked from within, surely there is something out there?"

"Negative. Perhaps we should send a few people down to help."

"Not unless Ivanova requests it. We have no idea what may yet be to come. Keep me posted, I must rejoin the fight."

Zack still has his ace in the hole and doesn't want to play his hand yet. Something just isn't right here and he can't figure out what it is. He's firing and looking around but nothing is coming to him. Just a perception that something's off.

"Where the hell did they come from??"

"What did you say?"

"Mai'lenn, these things didn't walk onto the station. They couldn't have cleared customs. Where did they come from? How did they get on the station?"

Now she sees and is even more concerned.

They managed to fight off all those that came for them. Z'al were amazed watching their physical and emotional strength. They had been at it awhile and were starting to get tired. That's how it happens. That's when something like the other showed up. They saw the recording from Babylon 5. They did not have Stephen's explanation for what it was. Lydia didn't need an explanation or a history lesson. She saw Dark. She believed she could conquer it because if she did not she would die. They did not notice that there seemed to be some argument between those who started this attack and the one who just arrived over who had the right to be there.

"Surely you all do not question me or my power?"

They don't like it. Erlich told him that there were those more powerful than they but he just mentioned that a few months ago. He'd spent the better part of two centuries before that explaining that there was nothing greater than them in existence. Galen decides to strike a happy medium.

"Surely we can all enjoy the spoils of seeing these three defeated?"

It had no problem with that. But it knew something—many things—they did not. It needed their souls to be lost. Killing them would simply release them back into the universe and the same cycle would continue. Then it considered that wasn't such a bad idea. It would delay while careful plans can be laid and certain ones eliminated. Satisfied, it doesn't care how they die, as long as they die. The rest of them must learn and this is the way to do it.

"What do you mean?"

"Consider the collection of those on that station?" Rathenn knows he is getting perilously close to an area he has no wish to visit at this time. As if they read his mind, the others consider that this may be their only time. He's not so sure.

"You mean Entil'Zha Delenn—Ivanova and Captain Sheridan."

Everyone notices the pause and everyone knows why. Its one thing to know it, another to admit it outside of your group of confederates.

"As you say."

"You seem to be in possession of a great deal of knowledge Rathenn. The three of you seem to have an extensive amount of information and perhaps a much better understanding than others."

It was an accusation and a compliment at the same time. They ARE Minbari. There's no way they don't appreciate that ability. They just admitted he knows more than the Grey Council. They're right. Rathenn says nothing, simply adopts an innocent look which would have fooled the 11 other people in the room if they weren't certified in doing the same thing. Knowing they'd get nothing out of him, unsure about Turval and not wanting to risk Durhan, they change to a different topic.

"We appreciate your counsel on the matter of Delenn. It would seem even more significant now than at the time."

Rathenn thinks about this then looks to his brethren. At Durhan and Turval's nod,

"I am always available to be of assistance to the Council whenever needed or required. She is blessed. We all saw that. But, if we were observant over the last few years, we would have known that. She follows her heart and her faith is complete and unwavering. That has always been true. Now you happen to know something more about her. Something that should only give you additional confirmation of who she is. We should already have learned that."

Everyone is quite aware that Rathenn is lecturing the Nine. Everyone is quite aware that he's earned the right to do that and much more. They nod and agree.

"What of the others?" The easiest way to get to Sheridan unnamed.

"Whom do you mean?"

After a slight hesitation, "They seem to be an interesting group."

"Yes, they do. But then again, look to Entil'Zha. Have you all come to any conclusions or a position as to our current situation?"

No one misses how he side stepped that one and moved on. They'd get nothing from him on Sheridan either. No one wanted to ask about Susan in front of Durhan. They were all surprised to learn of their connection and that their relationship is very strong. No, they would not risk offending Durhan by asking any questions about Ivanova in his presence. Though they all feel they have a right to some information, she is the Oracle of Minbar. She isn't the Oracle of Durhan!

"To our knowledge, in our history, nothing such as this has ever happened before. We are unable to get a response from the Fleet or anyone at Babylon 5. Why they would not assist is unclear."

"We are shut off from them on purpose. There is intervention at work by many forces. They do not realize that we cannot communicate with them. And, I believe they have their hands full."

The Nine look to Turval wanting clarification immediately.

"If we are being braced for an attack. If we are shut off here, that means they are in the middle of an attack there. Whatever is not happening here, is most definitely happening there."

They all want to know how he knows this and seems so sure but when they chance peeks at Rathenn and Durhan they are each silently nodding as if it is an absolute fact. They each decide they need closer ties with these three. They'll never be able to watch them or gather information on them through traditional means. Anla'Shok would never side with the Nine against these three. Not for something like this. Instead, they'll just have to keep strong ties and have them come in from time to time to clarify certain issues. [Since they insist on keeping their secrets so secret!!!] They also realize that Anla'Shok would not side with them over Delenn, Sheridan and certainly not Ivanova.

Some know they must be very careful with her. She is Fire Wing and the others doubt the Warrior Satai would allow her to be pressured. Then they each seem to remember Durhan and know they should not. They must be even more careful with Sheridan. His protection is very strong. They are building a wall around him if they can. The Religious Caste and Anla'Shok will follow him anywhere he leads, of that they are absolutely certain. That is not a bad thing. They know he is Isil'Zha. They know what arrogance and failing to think before acting by the Grey Council can lead to. They almost destroyed the humans because of it. Look who is leading the war. It also led to it being broken for a year followed by a civil war. No, they have learned from the mistakes of others. They will follow Valen's laws and they will obey and acknowledge his prophecies.

Before those assembled could maneuver around each other to gather more information, they are interrupted over the intercom.

"My deepest apologies for interrupting but I believe all of you should come out and see what is happening."

Durhan doesn't know if he likes the sound of it,

"What is happening?"

"Three Vorlons just entered the building and appear to be heading toward the main auditorium."

And the 12 said, "In Valen's name!"

None of the Grey Council have ever met a Vorlon. Delenn's guests on the ship were the closest any of them had gotten to a Light being. They had no idea what it signified and all turned to Rathenn.

"Whatever is to come is here. Let us go and meet it."

That resonated and settled as they all stood. The Nine re-hooded and followed the Three. Others at the headquarters seemed to come to the same conclusion as Rathenn. Word spread and everyone filed out of where they were and met in the auditorium as well. None of them were sure why they were being summoned but they were pretty sure the Vorlons weren't there for lunch. Word of the Nine coming to Tuzanor and specifically the Anla'Shok began to spread across the city and the planet. Minbari knew history when it was made and prophecy when it was about to be fulfilled. Learning that ship landed in Tuzanor, of all cities, and those Nine walked off and straight to the camp meant a great deal to them and many from the Religious Caste traveled there as well. If they were all to die, it would be together and in the presence of ones of like minds and hearts. Those who just arrived, followed the others into the theater to see what was to come. When they saw the Vorlons they just knew it was the right place to be.

The 12 stood silently to the side in the back of the room in a line. They were not running this show and they were not about to give the impression that they were. They knew nothing of the Vorlons' intentions and were spectators like the rest. The screen was opened on the stage, the lights went out and they all were surprised to see the iris on the encounter suit of one of the Vorlons open as a projection was aimed at the wall. Then they sat still, hearts barely beating as they watched what they could not believe. Shanmal wept at the sight of Malcolm, Lydia and Adam fighting those creatures of Darkness and Technomages with everything they had. It was inspiring but it was heartbreaking and the 12 looked to each other with absolute dread. The Three were proud that their Anla'Shok had taken up the fight directly but took no pleasure in seeing this battle. Others who did not know of their secret mission wondered where they were. The landscape looked nothing like Minbar so they had no idea what planet they could be on. Everyone hoped it wasn't within the Federation.

No one wanted to watch but they could not look away. When it seemed too much for them and the feeling grew that they could no longer look, the projection ended. No one understood what that meant. Did the Vorlons come to show them ½ a battle of their own simply to end in the middle and leave? No, a different Vorlon opened its iris and showed them something much worse. There were gasps, cries and moans at the sight they witnessed. None of them could believe what they were seeing. The Warrior Satai were extremely impressed to see Entil'Zha's skill fighting some Shadow thing of Darkness with a denn'bok. To their relief they also saw Moon Shields in the middle of the fray. They all searched for Fannol. They did not want to see him in this madness but if they saw him, they knew he lived. There! They saw him and exhaled at bit but their relief was short lived.

All their nerves were pretty much shot when they saw Ivanova and Sheridan out fighting. The view closed in on Sheridan using a compression rifle that was out of charges in hand to hand combat with one of those Shadow things they were all fighting. It did none of their hearts good. The one thing that everyone seemed to notice and the only thing to make any of them smile was watching Ivanova and Cole tear through the ones they attacked. No one every really knew what to make of either of them because they both seemed to have a battle lust greater than any Warrior they'd ever met and enjoyed fighting more than any person ever should.

Some secrets don't get to remain a secret. They saw Talia waving her hand around throwing her share of them together, knocking them out and snapping their necks. Their suspicions were confirmed when they noticed that certain of those creatures seemed to explode only when she was looking at them. But it was Rathenn who spilled one of their greatest secrets, though it just could not be helped,

"In Valen's name, the Soulwalker is out in the middle of the fighting as well!"

Durhan's heart was dangerously close to stopping when he heard that and looked closer to the screen,

"What are they thinking? To allow Sheridan, though no one could have stopped him, into this Dark madness is unthinkable but the Soulwalker as well! What sign is this?"

Turval turned to his brethren,

"I do not know but look at the skill with the denn'bok. Gedroon was a very good teacher."

The Three had to smile at that and began to relax just a bit.

The Nine seemed to have some sort of telepathic link because they were all thinking the same thing,

[A SOULWALKER!!!!]

Then they turned to each other making eye contact that said, 'that group is entirely more than we suspected and will ALL need watching and protecting'. What they really wanted to know was which one was the Soulwalker. The tight lipped Three gave no name or indication of gender. What they did reveal is that not only do they know which one it is, but they know that one well. And whomever it is, was taught the denn'bok by a Warrior. They turned suspiciously to the Warrior Satai but they shook their heads, they had no clue. They contented themselves with the knowledge that they got confirmation on many things. Especially Sheridan. There was no doubt in any of their minds that these Three were close enough to him to get close to him. They are now certain these Three know everything!

Mai'lenn picked up on Zack's meaning and they moved toward one another to consult. Selene sensed something else was up and turned to those two. After dispatching the Shadow thing she was fighting [I am so glad we put those blades on the end of these things!!!] she raced to their side. Marcus and Garibaldi both noticed her movement and the actions of those three though they could not take the time to speculate or get involved. They each sensed it was part II of this battle that hadn't even been revealed.

They both turned to her but were not alarmed. They saw her patrolling the station long before it was apparent that something would happen and they saw her fighting. She didn't give them a chance to ask what she wanted,

"I feel something. I felt something. There is more. I am here to help."

Mai'lenn & Zack don't even bother questioning that statement. With everything else they've seen and heard its down right normal. Quickly, Zack fills her in on their theory and his wondering how they got on board.

"Do you have others who can come with us?"

"Yes, why?"

"There is something sending them into the station. Some of them might have been here for awhile but think about it, the numbers. They keep coming no matter how many we kill."

They agree with her. Mai'lenn had come to the same conclusion. She's still curious about this one but will not defy Entil'Zha or Sheridan's unspoken orders.

Zack links into his reserve team of special forces while Mai'lenn alerts the Rangers she had in down below that they are coming their way.

"This station is weird but if there's something, its gotta be in down below. How both our people missed it, I can't figure out."

Selene thinks about the mystery of Grey 17,

"If its Shadow or something else Dark, they have ways we don't know or understand."

Zack thinks about that,

"Yeah, for all we know they could be opening the hell mouth down there or something."

Realization hits them at the same time. That's exactly what's happening. The Council and Warriors don't miss the three of them take off running or the team of Narns in riot gear that came out of nowhere hot on their heels. No one recognized them till Garibaldi shakes his head,

"He DOES want my job."

"What?"

"Those Narns in riot gear aren't station security. Zack recruited from the ones Z'al smuggled on the station and he did it secretly."

Marcus is sufficiently impressed but apparently has not has his fill of things to dispatch or life signs to terminate permanently so he nods and heads back into it.

Nothing is actually going as planned at this point. They do not understand how these three did not fall for the illusions. It wasn't possible for them not to. Then they manage to survive the first round thrown at them. They were starting to tire, the Technomages were all certain of it. Humans don't have that kind of stamina. Then Galen starts to remember what the female said and wonders if that is one of the powers the humans and Minbari have. "They see and feel things others do not?"

All the lurkers managed to find a nook or a cranny to hold up in once word started spreading of the strange things happening down there. They also learned of what was going on above them and wondered if this was to be the end. Most of them didn't have much hope for fruitful lives but they did have faith in Captain Sheridan. Then they saw Rangers moving stealthily around as if they were looking for something. They all knew to take cover, that didn't mean they couldn't take a peek. Once they saw the others running past their hiding spots, they knew whatever was down there, was about to come out in the open.

Zack, Mai'lenn and Selene raced through the station with Narns in tow. Once they reached down below they all spread out and tried to see and feel their way around. They now understood that whatever was doing this, was something really powerful and really patient. They would have to be patient while working quickly as well. Zack felt creeped out. It was worse than what he'd been feeling these last few weeks. Worse than what he felt yesterday to let him know it was time. Whatever Zack was feeling, Mai'lenn and Selene felt as well because they made eye contact and confirmed they weren't crazy. Something seemed to be moving them in one direction and they followed whatever it was. The Narns were right with them. Several of them couldn't help looking over their shoulder too because they knew they felt something creepy. The Rangers joined with them and all of them seemed to be of one mind.

"Its over there. Whatever we're looking for is over there."

"Yeah, it ought to be a door or a window or something. But who knows if it'll be on the floor, wall or ceiling. I've lived and worked on this station for 4 years. Things rarely make sense."

Mai'lenn is considering this. She does not know how she is in agreement with them both on things she does not understand. Though, she suspects the others do not as well.

And that's when they see it. A door. Well, smaller than a regular size door but much bigger than a window. They were happy to have found it but now really didn't know what they were supposed to do to close it off.

Before they can get to it they are attacked by more of those Dark things. The Narns and Anla'Shok immediately rush to engage them. That's what it took. While they were fighting off the ones around them, Na'Thal, Mai'lenn, Zack and Selene headed straight for that door. When it was all over, they really weren't sure how they managed to do it and it would be some time before they ever really understood but they got that gateway to hell shut and locked permanently. Then they joined their comrades in finishing off the rest of those things down below before rushing up to help the others. By the time they reach them, the battle is waning. Garibaldi is quick to note that they all look a hell of a lot worse than they did when they left and most of them look ready to fall down. That's when he realizes those three went to head off and defeat whatever second strike team was about to attack. He meets Marcus' eye and they both nod shaking their heads and laughing. They had to admit, they were good.

Once they are all absolutely certain that they have succeeded and all the things are dead, they head to the War Room to continue their meeting. Most of the others look at them like they're a bit too dedicated. They didn't even want to see a healer or clean up. Zack looked to Mai'lenn and they were both in agreement,

"They are at it again!"

When the Vorlon stopped the projection of the battle on Babylon 5 before it concluded, everyone assumed it would move onto another battle scene or perhaps some footage of what was happening around the Federation. Instead the lights came up but the Vorlons did not leave the room. No one else was going to leave until they did. It was like they were all holding their breath. Then all of the Vorlons turned to look directly at the Nine and said,

"Understanding is a three edge sword."

Nope, not one person knew what that meant. Guessing that everyone was clueless they tried again,

"The truth points to itself."

Rathenn inhaled sharply and turned white. Those around him noticed his reaction. The Nine had no clue what the Vorlon was talking about or why Rathenn had such a response to those cryptic yet seemingly innocent words. But then they remembered just how long he was Satai and figured it was tied to that. The room stilled as Rathenn moved from the wall away from the others and came forward. He knew where he heard that before. He had no idea why he had been intended to hear it but he did. How it was possible that it would come to him again, but in this manner, was beyond him. What could it mean? What was to come or what were they about to show them?

Durhan and Turval were concerned. They knew not the cause of his reaction and could not determine the significance of what was happening. They knew the Nine were looking at them for some direction. They knew the entire room was looking at them. They slapped on impassive masks and stood silently facing the Vorlon and looking no where else. They would not abandon Rathenn.

The Vorlons waste no more time. The lights dimmed again and they all settled in for whatever they were intended to see. Everyone now realized that the Vorlons were doing more than simply updating them on what was happening outside their planet or space since they are cut off from everyone. Especially when they found themselves privy to a conversation between two great beings none of them wanted to get anywhere near. But all of them realized the significance of what was said.

"What concerns you?"

"Who concerns me, you mean. Sheridan."

"What can he do to us? Before you say anything—yes he went to Z'ha'dum. How he managed to return we still don't know. Especially for a human."

"Why a human?"

"They are the youngest of them all. And, considering their home world and government, the weakest ones as well."

"Yes, they are the youngest. Their arrogance and pride moved them to the brink of extinction when they woke the dragon. We still do not know why the dragon laid down! Until we learn this, we will not be safe. I am certain of it. Just as certain as I am that not all of the humans are proud, arrogant fools like the ones we know and work with. Some are thoughtful and quiet. Do you have any idea who Sheridan is! None of us did until it was too late. None of us were watching as closely as we should have been. We were not paying attention! You always have to watch the quiet ones."

"So you are saying Sheridan is the one who must be dealt with? That he is the quiet one?"

"Yes. He fascinates, amazes, and frightens me. You should be frightened of him as well. Regardless, we owe Sheridan. Since his return from Z'ha'dum, we owe him. Every other being in the universe knows how to die and stay dead except that one!!! And now that he lives again, he will be nothing but trouble for the rest of us. Not just the Shadows. Not just our kind. All of us!"

"So, what do we do about Sheridan?"

"I don't think we have to do anything about him. I think there is someone else about to take care of our problem for us. But if they do not succeed, we will find a way to be rid of him!"

Ok, the room is pretty much dead silent after that one. Everyone was trying to digest the fact that Vorlons showed up and decided to show live projections of others. No one was prepared to ask themselves why just yet. Though they were starting to get a better idea of the message now that they'd been shown this unbelievable recording. Technomages talking about Captain Sheridan! But that wasn't the amazing part and they all knew it. They gave everyone confirmation of what they knew or suspected. While Durhan is thankful to be able to gather this information, he wonders if the Vorlons are planning to reveal all of their secrets. Turval is wondering if they'll leave a copy of any of these recording so they can add them to their collection. The Nine are just floored and grateful that their faces must remain covered because it masks their shocked expressions. Its one thing to believe on your own. Its another to hear others discussing it. They are also now aware that certain others want to know their greatest secret and know they must discuss how to prevent that from happening.

At the same time, everyone is settling on the fact that they are planning to kill him. Or they are planning to wait for someone else to do it first and then they'll try. The room is a buzz of conversation and no one knows what to do with any of that. Somehow they all know this is not being broadcast throughout the Federation. Why the Vorlons came to them and brought them this is a mystery they are beginning to understand. The Nine individually are thanking Valen for allowing them to come and witness this. Had they gone to Yedor or anywhere else they never would know these things. That makes them wonder where the Vorlons place the Anla'Shok. After awhile they must quiet down again because another projection starts. From the cuts, bruises, blood stains and ripped uniforms of those shown, they pretty much guess now what or who the Technomages were referring to at the end. They also realize that since those who tried to kill him failed, Captain Sheridan is not out of anyone's cross hairs yet. Still they watch what is about to come, knowing this is better than peeking in on the Grey Council and that they will learn a great deal about those leading the war effort as they talk in private. The Three are not pleased by this at all.

Settled around the table, Sheridan gives no time for anything,

"I'm glad we're all still alive. That attack was just the preview. It was meant specifically to get rid of the nine of us but it failed. We've still got work to do."

He waits for them to absorb that then moves on,

"Fannol, how close are the Shadows to Minbar?"

"I am uncertain. Not so close that we can't defend. It's the planet killer I'm concerned about."

"Don't be."

That causes everyone to look at him a little strange. Well, almost everyone. But he doesn't address it.

"I'm not the only one here who has felt it. I know for certain you each felt it last night. Its time to call the Gathering."

There wasn't any reason to ask for clarification or play stupid. This was it. They nodded.

Delenn looks around briefly then turns to Sheridan,

"We have to get them out first. I have felt them specifically. They were in sync with us. Darkness came for them as well." There was no need to say whom she was talking about. And everyone nodded their heads while making sounds of agreement .

"Fannol, you and Talia up for going into a really Dark place?"

She couldn't help it,

"As opposed to all the other really Dark places we keep ending up? Sir, that wasn't funny."

They all laugh and he nods.

"True. But I'm sending the two of you into the middle of the hive. You're going to have to get them out and then you're going to have to round up Z'al. You've got to maneuver all the Shadows out of that system and lead them to the meeting place."

Susan narrows her eyes suspiciously,

"I notice you aren't looking at me, captain. You wouldn't be trying to keep me out of the fight would you?" She does not sound pleased.

"As if I could. No, you're going to Minbar."

"Great! My Fire Wings would love to get in on this with me. I do not deny them any battle time. How many ships should I take?" She smiles proudly and is almost giddy bouncing in her seat.

"None."

Everyone just stares at him and Michael asks,

"Ok, either you want Susan to directly engage a Shadow Fleet armed with a planet killer heading to wipe out the entire Minbari Federation by herself with one ship. Or, you left out a REALLY big piece of the plan."

"And that's what happens when you guys don't let me finish. Susan's going to engage some of their ships, yes, that can't be helped. But her job is to draw them away from Federation space before they have a chance to deploy the planet killer and blow up Minbar."

"Thanks for the EASY job."

Fannol looks at her without much sympathy while rolling his eyes,

"At least YOU do not have to go into the hornet's nest, make a pick up, connect with Z'al, drive hundreds of Shadows from secret bases hidden on hostile planets, then coax them all to the meeting place without getting killed first."

"Well, when you put it like that, my job does sound easy. Thanks captain." And then she cracks up laughing.

"Don't thank me yet. That's only the first part of your assignment."

"What's the second?"

"I'll tell you later." No one likes the sound of that and all stare at him. Marcus turns to him,

"Captain, should I remind you what happened the last time you came up with a secret plan?"

Nobody's laughing cause he's not answering. He's just sort of staring at them in an unsuccessful attempt at trying to look innocent.

Garibaldi shakes his head.

"I wondered how we were going to get the others. Herding the Shadows where we want them is one thing. Everyone else outside this room thinks this war is just about defeating the Shadows, but we all know its bigger than that. Do NOT tell me you plan on using yourself as bait."

"Captain...."

"They want me. For some reason, they all really want me gone. They will answer for a chance to get to me and take me out." He shrugged and actually had the audacity to smirk.

When he says that everyone in the room explodes.

Delenn raises her hand and firmly intervenes,

"Silence." Everyone goes quiet instantly but aren't happy. Then she looks at them all,

"What is to be, will be."

Delenn and Sheridan look at each other carefully then nod their resolve for whatever is to come. She doesn't give anyone else a chance to start up again,

"Marcus and I will head out to—encourage some of those we found earlier into following us. It should not take long for others to realize what we are doing. They will pursue us as well."

Marcus can't really object to the plan. It is the right thing to do. He's just hoping a few of the First Ones they hooked up with will act as a buffer between them and some of the 'others' since they really seemed to want this Gathering to take place.

"Yeah, that sounds good. We make pretty good targets." Then shakes his head and chuckles at the irony of the situation.

G'Kar turns to Michael,

"Mr. Garibaldi, I believe we have an appointment of our own."

He just looks at G'Kar like he's crazy,

"Should I remind YOU what happened the last time you left this station?" Then he turns to Sheridan, narrows his eyes and wiggles a finger disapprovingly. "You too."

G'Kar's really not interested in the lecture or the history lesson,

"You know what is to come and you know what we must do. We know what he must do. We have an appointment to keep."

Michael doesn't want to but he grudgingly agrees. The captain turns to Stephen,

"You've been quiet. Anything you want to tell us?"

"I'm going out on White Star Prime."

They can do nothing but stare at Stephen then swing their heads back and forth between him and the captain. No one knows what that means. They can't tell if it's a good or bad sign. Like a good luck charm or is he going along to perform last rites. They say nothing because there's nothing to say.

"Michael is right. We are the only ones who understand how big this is. No one else knows the true risks or how high the stakes are. And because they do not know the extent or pervasiveness of what the nine of us face, our responsibility to protecting and defending them is much greater. I said it a long time ago; the only thing we see is Light and Dark. Nothing else. That applies here and now.

But there's another component to this mission. It is mine alone to complete. And I know you all understand why. I will not turn away from what is to come. The truth points to itself. And in this case, it points to me. We've all known that this day would come. We each submitted to the will of the Universe a long time ago. We agreed no one would know what we have chosen to do of our own free will. What we willingly embrace. Silence has been our only burden. It doesn't matter what happens to us. We'll all meet again in the place no shadows fall. Our purpose is clear. Our path calls. Our destiny awaits. Let's prepare the Fleet for the final engagement. This ends now. One way or another. It will end now."

Each member of the War Council nods their heads in complete agreement with Sheridan and in conviction as he speaks. They know this is true. As one, they rise from the table and exit the room.

No one really knows what to do with that. They learned a great deal and then found out they are missing a much greater block of information. They are moved and frightened by Sheridan's words. They are powerful, full of faith and conviction but much of it was veiled. Then they realize he was not speaking to them but to others who know exactly what he meant. Each and every person in the auditorium wants to know what they chose to do that must be kept silent. Each and every person wants to know what Sheridan's secret mission is. After Z'ha'dum, they don't really put anything past him but just don't know what to think. As much as they all specialize in information gathering, they're all on over load with what they just saw. No one can figure out how the captain expects Ivanova to draw away a Shadow attack fleet. None of them wanted to know they were bringing a planet killer with them or hear Sheridan use the words Minbar and blow up in the same sentence. Sensing they've had all they can take, the Vorlons end their video lecture series for the day. Now they understand the message they were intended to get. Most suspect there was more to it than just the obvious of what they saw and heard.

Rathenn hadn't expected to hear those words again that day, and certainly not from Sheridan. He begins to understand the symmetry in the universe. He knows the Nine are waiting and want to talk. He has grown accustomed to meeting as Three over the last 2 years and really had no wish to change it. Sensing where his thoughts are, Turval turns to the Grey Council,

"We've had a full day. Please allow me to make arrangements for you all here. Some rest and quiet time might be in order for all of us."

Pretty much numb over the sights and sounds from orbit to the first of the Vorlons' projections, they were not prepared to watch those on the War Council. Hearing Fannol and Ivanova tease each other about their suicidal missions was too much. But then Entil'Zha plans to go out and lure some Shadows into following her. And she smiled when she said it! They want to know what this Gathering is but fear the details at the same time. They know it will not be pretty. Sheridan's words undid them all. And they all needed to go somewhere private to find a way to deal with them. The Technomage asked the question. And now they are forced to examine whether THEY know who he is. Whether they really understand what his presence means. Until they heard him speaking in the privacy of his friends where his true face was revealed, they had no real idea of the man he truly is.

"Yes, Sech Turval, we would all appreciate some time to ourselves."

And that was that.

It was the strangest, scariest and most wonderful thing any of them had ever seen. Vir did not know why they had to witness it and not intervene, only that they had to. Never had he seen Darkness like that and he was certain the others had not either. They only knew of Shadows until seeing Kosh fighting that creature in the Zocolo. No one suspected there would or could be more of them. None of them knew why they came for the Rangers only and did not try to attack them. None of them knew how the Rangers figured it out. Surely Shanmal couldn't have warned them of the extent of what would come, only that some great Darkness was near. Tafali was pretty sure none of them would learn the answer to any questions dealing with the Rangers. One thing he'd figured out along time ago, the Anla'Shok are open about many things. They are truthful and dependable. But when it comes to the practice of their religious beliefs or the bond between humans and Minbari, they will not speak.

Vir remembered when those Technomages came to the station. He knew how Londo sought their blessing. Centauri aren't the only race who think their presence a blessing. But Vir studied after embracing Z'al. He knew their magic was based on Shadow tech. When he thinks about having sent Selene to one of them after watching how they treated the Rangers and what they are really capable of he cringes. It could not be helped and it was written in prophecy where to go and who to see. Vir knew that was the only reason Selene was protected. To see them acting as they were was confusing and alarming. What could have inspired them to behave that way, he didn't know.

Like the mages, Vir thought they were getting tired and would soon fall. He knew that was the point he would no longer wait for their request but would intervene on their behalf. But it wasn't necessary, they seemed to get a second wind of some sort and stepped up their fighting. Seeing the creature like the one who fought Kosh, fighting Lydia and Adam was beyond other worldly as far as any of them were concerned. They defeated everything that came at them. No one is certain if this battle is truly over because they have not moved to return to the complex. They simply dropped to their knees and resumed praying.

Inside, everyone else is speechless and just staring at each other for some explanation. None of them can believe they actually killed those Technomages after defeating all those other things. No one can believe that horrible beast that can kill a Vorlon was defeated by Rangers. Those who started their prayer vigil haven't stopped. That causes the others to wonder if something more is to come, as well. Not wanting to tear themselves away from what might happen next, they still have to address one question,

"Why did we see things attacking in the beginning and the Rangers did not?"

Everyone sort of shrugged but definitely wanted to know.

The group couldn't come up with anything. Since the Rangers were still kneeling and praying without anything else showing up to attack them, they decided to have one person watch the monitors and alert the rest if something should happen.

They aren't sure what to do with the remains of the Shadow things or the Technomages. They decide to wait for the Rangers to finish and then ask their opinion. Vir and Tafali discussed it quietly and decided that they and a few others would stand guard over the Rangers while they prayed. He wasn't sure what was coming but Vir was certain that they were expecting something or someone else. He also couldn't tell if it were to be good or bad. Just then, Ari'ahn came out of no where and moved to some sort of sentry position near the Rangers as he had when they were in Lydia's room. That caused both men to exhale slightly. At least he knows what's going on.

Durhan and Turval were concerned about Rathenn. They'd seen him in many different states but that was not one of them. He was not embarrassed, afraid, or guilty. It was such a strange reaction it seemed almost wonder but something more than that. They determined that they would not pry or ask a single question. Whatever it was shocked and troubled him greatly. They would not add to his distress. How they could prevent the Grey Council from asking was another matter entirely. Turval considered it before turning to Durhan,

"I believe they were given too many surprises by the Vorlons today to want to focus on Rathenn completely. No, they will be curious once they remember. But they learned much and have to deal with it."

"Agreed. And if they should want to pry, we shall direct them elsewhere." Turval nodded in complete agreement. They met Rathenn in the hall just then and all three walked toward the room together. The others decided he should speak first and guide the conversation.

"Thank you for intervening with the Council. I did not feel up to answering their questions. We have had more practice with that group and the amazing things that seem to happen around them. They need the time to sort things out."

Once they were settled, the conversation continued.

"True. They will have many questions for us. Turval and I were just discussing that. Hopefully, they will need an extensive amount of time to assimilate the information."

Rathenn smiles at the veiled reference and Durhan's message. It touched him. He turned to his brethren and shook his head,

"What say you on the events of the day?"

Durhan lightened the mood but he was still serious,

"I say Susan has too much of a Warrior's Heart. No one should be that giddy and excited at the opportunity to engage a Shadow fleet on their own." He was not happy in the least.

"Perhaps. BUT, did you see her and Cole during the attack on the station? Fannol fights with skill, cunning and determination. Susan does as well but she's a bit too eager to jump into a fight."

They all laugh at Turval's words and Durhan's heart is lightened a bit.

"Yes, she could perform several of her Happy Dances today. I see that I have indulged her too much and will have to reign her in when this is over. Cole, well he almost scares me some times."

That's saying a lot for Durhan! Rathenn laughs then turns to him,

"He is intense isn't he? And he seemed to be having as much—more fun than the Moon Shields were. They are a strange group."

Turval brings it back around,

"In light of everything we saw, I think Delenn's visitation is a part of the reason for our quarantine and the reason for the Grey Council coming here today. Though they may not understand or even realize why they were moved to come."

Rathenn agrees and explains his theory.

"She was deeply concerned about something. We do not and probably never will know what. She and her aide went to the Sisters of Valeria—notice a lot of people from Babylon 5 seem to travel there—under the guise of visiting her mother. I happen to know that after some time with her, Delenn and Lennier shut themselves away in secret to review the old text and scrolls. They also looked at some of the recordings."

"You happen to know?"

"We covered this, Turval, you do not care how I know as long as I get the information and share it with you both."

Durhan intervenes quickly, "Go on Rathenn."

"Those records have been read and combed through more in the last two years than they have in a millennium. Seriously, I do not think that anyone outside our collective has touched them since Valen ordered them preserved for eternity. I think we all can guess why he did that."

"Fine. But what does this specifically have to do with Delenn and the Vorlon ships that have surrounded the boarders of the entire Federation?"

"She learned or felt something was to come that would not end well for us. She was praying for Minbar. The intensity of her prayers and the strength of her faith is what called them to her in the chambers and what may have brought them to us today. They have erected a mighty hedge around us."

No one had a better explanation and it sounded good.

Turval nods but has more to add,

"Do not forget Talia and Fannol. The timing is too much of a coincidence. They both had a hand in that Vorlon blockade and we all know it. I begin to suspect Talia is the real reason the Vorlons came here to prepare the others now by bringing them the message."

Rathenn turns to Durhan,

"The message they wanted us to have and understand?"

"That Sheridan is everything Susan has said he is and more. That he is Chosen by the Universe and that we better embrace and understand that. They wanted us to see them––all of them fighting Darkness literally, in a way none of us have had to. In a horrible way. Then they sat down to the business of this war without even bothering to change their clothes or rest. I shutter to think what he meant when he said it ends now but I am convinced that he is moving in accordance with the Universe's plan. That the entire War Council intends to fulfill some divine plan and they decided we did not need to know about their sacrifice in doing so. The Universe obviously decided better."

"Just because the others here know what they discussed, doesn't mean it was meant for public consumption."

"Turval is right. There must be silence beyond the Anla'Shok of what the Vorlons showed us. We know they will remain quiet. But what of the others who came? Some from the Religious Caste traveled here once they learned what was happening in space and that the Nine had come to us."

Durhan rolls his eyes,

"The Religious Caste loves to keep secrets just as well as the rest of us. They will whisper to their clan elders why they must do or say certain things when it comes to Entil'Zha or the others, but they will not tell."

Rathenn laughs and agrees.

"His faith is strong. To see him speaking to those closest to him and in what they thought was complete privacy says a great deal. But WE already knew these things. The Soulwalker gave us much warning of the power and greatness of both his presence and his soul. And we saw the Gathering of Souls with our own eyes. Tell me that was not the most wonderous sight you have ever beheld? You cannot.

Years ago, she said he would do great things. That he would stand between the Darkness and the Light. Long before the Shadows returned she warned us. Later, we thought she meant Z'ha'dum. Obviously there was much more and she was just being stingy. Remember when she foretold that Delenn would be the one to break the Grey Council? And that her time would not come until after she did so? I knew it was to be and still I was shocked when I walked out of that chamber with the others. But Susan insisted on keeping silent about just what Delenn would do in her time. Except to say it would be "obvious". We almost had coronaries when she was at Yedor! We must learn to ask that child for specific details when she decides to give cryptic prophecy. She knows these things and can share just a bit more!" He's annoyed but can't help laughing.

Turval decides to be generous though he laughs as well,

"We are more blessed than most. We are the only ones aside from the War Council who know the things we know. And in some respects, we know a great deal about certain ones on the Council that even they do not. Except Susan, it is very hard to keep a secret from her."

Rathenn laughs his agreement before turning to the others in all seriousness,

"What about panic? They have heard of a planet killer and know for certain that the Shadows are coming. There are many who would think certain things that are not true."

Durhan interrupts,

"That is because they do not know what we know is to come. If we carry on as usual here, they will be fine. The Vorlons have not left the building. That means they will show us something else when it occurs. We all know they came to prepare the Anla'Shok for what is to come and what is to follow because of what we must do later. That means, they will show them at least part of the Gathering, once it is called."

All of them were in agreement on this point. Turval thinks for a minute,

"Minbari did not behave so well during the time the Council was broken. Their patience and faith were tested and they failed. How they respond to what is happening above is the key."

"The key to what?"

"To the Minbari's place in the Universe's plan. Or if we will have one."

They sit silently for several moments thinking on Turval's words when Rathenn is finally compelled to speak,

"Yes, and it is more than that. We all know it. Susan may see the future but Sheridan IS the future. He knows the Universe's plan. And he intends to carry out what he was Chosen to do faithfully. That is why many things are occurring now. That plan includes Minbar and it includes the Anla'Shok for a specific reason. I heard words spoken twice today that cause me to tremble. Words with a very specific meaning. The Vorlons turned to the Nine with those words. They did that for a specific reason. Because those words were meant for them and them alone.

They are the ruling body of the Federation but they must learn certain things. They must embrace certain things. And they must understand certain things. Things their predecessors did not or were not capable of. Those mistakes lead to both the fulfillment of prophecy and the revelation of others. What they do now, how they lead and guide is crucial for all Minbari for many reasons. The wrong step, the wrong choice, a blind eye, arrogance, pride, or an unbelieving spirit and Minbar WILL be shut out of the Universe's plan just as we are being shut off from the rest of the universe right now. THAT is the message the Vorlons were sent to give the Grey Council. Understanding is a three edge sword, they must grasp that soon."

"And what of the other?" Durhan did not want to press but he could not help it at this point.

"The Technomage was right when he said Sheridan fascinates, amazes and frightens him. He was right to say that. The truth points to itself. I can say no more on that subject or explain its significance, except for this. John Sheridan is the truth. If the Grey Council cannot or will not see it, then we must leave them to their fate. But the three of us will not be excused or pardoned for failing him because we have been given more warning and more preparation than ALL others. Even if we do not know all of what is to come we know who was chosen to deliver it."

They sat is silent agreement for some time before rising and leaving as one.

The Nine cunning and sneaky members of the Grey Council who'd managed to plant a listening device in their chamber were not prepared for anything they heard. None of them could believe Susan saw that much detail. Valen said it would be done. He did not say who would do it. This is twice today that listening in on the private conversations of others has given them confirmation of the things they accepted in their hearts and amongst each themselves. They did not know how they were going to deal with any of those in that group before today. But one thing became crystal clear to them after the Vorlons' projections and listening to the Three. They cannot pressure Ivanova. Or get in Sheridan's way. It would seem that Fannol and Talia are also untouchable as well. And they already knew to leave Entil'Zha alone.

Rathenn's words at the end were too passionate and too solemn not to have been the absolute truth. They each had to wonder who those three were to have access to such specific information and to be chosen to know things others were not. Their understanding of the entire situation was extensive, that they learned on arrival. But after listening in on this conversation, they knew there was much more to the three of them. They also realized that if they were selected to have certain information and to be included in the circle of those changing their future, the Grey Council would not get in their way. They heard his words about their predecessors and the past mistakes. They realize he has a deeper understanding of the Vorlons' purpose. They agree that they needed to hear and know these things but that they should not continue to monitor them least that be the false step or wrong move they make to harm Minbari.

Susan Ivanova was not playing around with her security chief when she told him that those shuttle bay doors would open for a ship arriving from the planet. They all knew that was where the captain's associate had been for weeks. They knew this was a sign that things were heating up long before they got the word on what was about to happen. She was dead serious when she said someone should greet him and escort him where ever he wanted to go but they were to leave him alone, not monitor him in any way and definitely not follow him. That ruffled a few feathers but no one wanted to stick their hand in the lion's mouth. They saw fire like the old days. According to her guards, they saw something else in the station's shuttle bay. But since Anla'Shok do not gossip it was not included as an official part of the report.

Susan always had to wonder about the captain and his plans. He and Delenn really were made for each other. They both seem to love scheming up secret plans. {Whatever} Timing was the problem but he apparently worked all of that out in his head and calculated everything down to the last few seconds. That was fine for him. What if the Shadows didn't want to play on the same time table? Leaving the War Room, she and Fannol made eye contact just before reaching out and clasping hands. Talia rolled her eyes and hoped they weren't about to start carrying on like they did at Tuzanor. She was thankful that the light, flowers and wind chimes didn't show up when they were at headquarters. Minbari are very ritualistic and they believe in signs. She wasn't sure what they would have thought of that show but it would definitely go down in the books.

But, Talia knew that White Star 14 would be the first ones to depart because they had to get into Centauri space and rescue Malcolm, Lydia and Adam. This would be before the captain had time to share his 'plan' with Susan so neither of them would know what level of crazy or suicidal it rose to. That meant they would need time together to be together. Talia got the sense that their guards seemed to know when the two of them planned a fast get away into seclusion or hibernation because they took one look at the clasped hands and headed in the direction of Susan's station quarters. She headed up to the ship to take care of all pre-departure procedures and get the crew ready for their mission. She figured she'd do as much as she could up until the last possible minute and then contact Fannol that it was time to go so they could have whatever time they needed. She just hoped they answered their links.

The had not moved in hours so their guards did not either. The Vorlon kept its watch near the three and it seemed almost natural after some time. Then they felt extreme gusts of wind and dust swirled around near them. They were alert, though the Rangers did not rise or stop their prayers. A few of Z'al wondered if there was to be some new attacker after the confusion earlier and most people had to look at each other to confirm that they were actually feeling something even if they couldn't see it. All were in agreement though the Rangers still did not move.

Not realizing that their unusual arrival was causing discomfort and unease among those they were coming to visit, White Star 14 deactivated its new defense shield and the ship materialized into view after landing on the planet. It was a surprise and a relief—after everyone sort of glanced around to be sure they were all seeing something. Vir smiled. Tafali thought that was cool. Neither of them knew that White Stars had some kind of cloaking device. Once the doors opened, several things happened at once and it was mild panic. Talia could feel them when they first entered the atmosphere and alerted the healers to come forward prepared to debark and assist. Fannol and Talia's security insisted on being present.

"They may be allies, but this is unknown territory. Besides, it is one of Kesha's security protocols!"

The larger than necessary landing party—as far as Talia and Fannol were concerned—were treated to the gruesome sight of Shadow and various Darkness remains, including an 'other'. Talia was surprised to see three dead Technomages, Z'al members obviously standing guard, a Vorlon keeping watch (though she felt him on arrival as well) and their Rangers—bloodied, bruised, injured, exhausted and still praying. Everyone got a shock when Ari'ahn decided he didn't want to be discrete,

"Fannol. Talia."

"Ari'ahn." They answered then moved towards the Rangers. Tafali raised his eyebrow at Vir as they moved closer.

"Vir, are your people alright?"

"Yes, no one was harmed. They came for them specifically. We could not interfere." He's not sure why he said it 'cause he still didn't know why they couldn't or how he knew that.

"We know. Don't worry, you all weren't supposed to."

[Cryptic much?] Nobody said it out loud but they all thought it. Vir was a little surprised to see Talia dressed like Delenn in the robes of the Religious Caste and not her Army of Light uniform. He knew she wasn't Anla'Shok and had no clue she was that much apart of Minbari society. He's trying to figure out how that works but then decides to file it away and stick a pin in it for later.

She kneels in front of the three and speaks quietly in Minbari. Most of them don't understand but Vir learned while on Minbar. It was another surprise that she spoke Andorando but then he thought about it and realized it wasn't. Then the healers approach and they are each picked up and carried to the ship.

"Vir, we have to take them with us. Can someone show a few of our people to their room so they can pack their things?"

He had no idea what happened to make the Rangers act as they had this past week but it had to be serious beyond their attack for them to send a ship to get them. He now suspects their reason for traveling with the ship cloaked and actually landing on the planet instead of shuttling down has more to do with that than a covert rescue mission. Then he wonders how they knew the three of them were attacked. He nods and motions for two people to show the others to their rooms. Vir thought they were going to pack up and leave so he's surprised when Fannol turns to him,

"Much has happened. Much is about to happen. We need to go somewhere and talk."

Vir nodded and they turned to go inside the complex. Tafali said nothing but his thoughts were pretty loud. [Oh yeah, I knew it. This is something really big.]

It really should have been a warning sign to Vir that would set the tone for this meeting. While walking into the building someone turned to Talia and Fannol and asked how they knew the Rangers had been attacked. They both answered at the same time without missing a beat,

"They are Anla'Shok."

As if that explained things! When Tafali thought about it he decided not to rule out the possibility that it did.

Vir knew they were leaving out something. The plan seemed straight forward enough though he didn't really understand why they felt it necessary to get ALL of the Shadows in the same place at the same time. ½ or even 2/3 would do serious damage and they could clean up the rest later. That would be easiest and, really, where could they hide? But when he heard the amount of time they had to do it he just stared at Fannol wondering what was going on.

"I'm not sure we can do it in that short a time period. I know the rest of the Fleet will be moving them from other systems to your meeting spot for this engagement. But if we can't get all of them at this time, we're prepared to take them out slowly. We're still making our way to Centauri Prime."

Fannol looked at him but said nothing then turned to Talia. Minbari might be ever polite but he'd spent too much time around Susan over the last few years. He did not want to risk it. Talia was the diplomat, negotiator and smooth talker. He waited for her to finesse the situation. Big mistake.

That was when Fannol remembered that there were just some things that Talia Winters would not really finesse or smooth over. There were also specific things she would not tolerate. The number one thing on that list were people who would not bend to her will. He tried not to roll his eyes and kept what Susan called his poker face on while he watched this scene play out. If he wanted to have control over the direction this meeting would take, he should have never turned it over to her.

Every mouth around the table was hanging wide open. They've heard of dedication and self confidence before but what she just said wasn't possible. Then again, what they saw those Rangers do shouldn't have been possible either. Vir's eyes bulged at that. He really couldn't believe those words and tone just came from the mild mannered and always accommodating Talia Winters. [I've been away from the station for too long] Then he considered that being on the front lines of this kind of war is bound to change a person. It changed him. Tafali sat back and watched everything. He saw those Warriors standing guard at the door. He saw how they never let her out of their sight for an instant and he saw them inch forward a bit when she raised her voice. They weren't threatening or hostile to anyone in the room or anyone at their headquarters since their arrival but he got the definite impression that would change the moment they perceived some threat to her. He intervened without anyone asking for his opinion,

"I don't think Vir meant to give you the impression that Z'al would not assist or participate. You understand that we have a vested and pretty significant interest in seeing all the Shadows gone from our boarders. I think we were all just a bit surprised by the visit and the time table for this mission. We haven't had any updates from our ships in the Fleet so it caught us off guard. And, its been a stressful week."

Fannol knew he should step in and answer at this point. They could not afford to waste time disagreeing over what to do or how to do it. But the truth was he got a kick out of watching Talia unleash what Susan called that good old Minbari thunder and lightening when he wasn't the object of her wrath. Turns out he really didn't have to intervene.

Vir wasn't trying to be difficult, he was trying to figure out what they were up to and why the rush. If this was simply because of something that was affecting the Minbari, well he sympathized but he had a responsibility to his people. He didn't want to jeopardize all the Centauri lives they were fighting to save. He knew it was impossible to get information out of Minbari or Rangers but he thought he'd take a shot with Talia. He didn't know she was a cross between a Vorlon and a Minbari on her best day when she wanted to be cryptic or misdirect. Before he could say anything,

Ari'ahn entered and went right up to Talia and held his version of conversation with her and Fannol.

Nobody's getting it and they're all kinda wondering why those two are speaking like a Vorlon. Then they consider how much time the Vorlons spend around the Minbari and Anla'Shok and figure that maybe it's a thing with them. Tafali picked up on one word and twirled that around in his head. [Isil'Zha. Its about Sheridan. Something REALLY big must be going down.] He had his suspicions and concerns when the Rangers reacted to that message and hoped it had nothing to do with Sheridan. He really thought his theory about him being some kind of religious figure made sense in light of the facts they had. After everything they'd seen over the last week and Ari'ahn's actions of standing over them, he was convinced. He knew this was about something much greater than just the Minbari and he suspected it was bigger than the war. What he was able to come up with during the past week in quiet contemplation is that Sheridan is someone important to more than just the Minbari and the Vorlons and that means he's important to them.

Then Ari'ahn turned to Vir,

"Now is the time. Now is the hour."

Seemed pretty straightforward to everyone. Vir realized that they were going to have to do it once Ari'ahn spoke. That little conversation between the three of them was too much. Vir was not yet fluent in Vorlon. All he knew how to do was wade through the cryptic sentences to get the basics. He was actually a lot better than he thought. One thing he wasn't prepared to do was figure out their conversation. It didn't sound too healthy. He didn't know Ari'ahn's connection to the Rangers. Or how he knew Fannol and Talia. Selene thought that no one from the Council knew he was hiding on the planet. [Guess not] Then he wondered why neither of them were surprised to see him when they arrived. As he thought about it, none of the Anla'Shok or those Warriors who departed the ship seemed the least bit surprised to see a Vorlon or to know one was there.

"Alright. Let's figure out what we need to do to get started and how to best maneuver our ships."

Fannol noticed that was all Talia really needed to hear and she suddenly became sweet and accommodating again.

She wasn't sure why she was doing this. Actually, she had no clue what or why she was feeling what she was feeling at all. All these changes started after she came to this station. Then she decided that trying to unravel the mystery wasn't productive at the moment and she should quit stalling and get to it. When she rang the chime she knew she shouldn't have been surprised to see Marcus answer the door but she was. She was also a little embarrassed 'cause she wasn't sure if she was going to end up sounding like an idiot and then get dismissed while he watched. [Let's just get this over with]

He looked at her funny then moved out of the way so she could enter.

"I really hope I'm not disturbing but I need to speak Entil'Zha Delenn for a moment."

Marcus sized her up. He always did that to everybody. No one was really exempt or got a free pass with him. He learned that the hard way after giving Delenn one too many free passes. Satisfied that she was sincere and that even though he did not know her motives, they were genuine.

"Sure, I'll get her." When Delenn entered she did not act surprised to see Selene and simply smiled and motioned for her to take a seat. Both women noticed that Marcus wasn't leaving and Lennier suspiciously took that moment to pop into the room as well. He knew Delenn was up to something but this time he suspected Marcus was in on it as well. That battle earlier had almost been too much for Lennier and he was in need of a great deal of personal assistance when it was over. Marcus was wise to be silent as Delenn attended to Lennier and was finally able to quiet his frayed nerves while easing his distress. She really forgot some times how protective he was and how much something like seeing her fighting Shadow soldiers could undo him.

Resigned to the audience that gave no pretense of not listening and no indication of leaving, Selene jumped in,

"Entil'Zha, this will sound strange and I cannot explain it so please do not ask me to. I do not understand myself. I feel that you and Marcus will be leaving the station soon and I must go with you. That is all I know. Where ever you two are headed, I am supposed to be there as well."

Then she stopped and just shrugged at Delenn. Really, she knew that sounded crazy and after the day they'd all had, she wasn't too certain a little extra crazy hadn't come on her and stayed.

Delenn tilted her head a bit and stared at Selene for a few moments without saying a word. Then she smiled and nodded her head,

"Yes. We will be heading up to White Star 2 in 1 hour. That should give you time to make arrangements."

Then she turned to Marcus, (Delenn was not the least bit subtle at times)

"Meet Selene at her quarters and escort her to the shuttle bay. Lennier and I will meet you there."

He narrowed his eyes at Delenn without saying a word and she simply smiled, as if her smile was some kind of permit for each of her actions and whims. Marcus REALLY disliked how Delenn got to him some times. He still hadn't called her on that grave misdirection she used to sneak off to Minbar with Lennier. He knew exactly what she was up to and exactly what she did while there. Marcus was determined that she would never be able to successfully use that pitiful expression on him again. Unfortunately, he hadn't yet built up a defense to her smile.

"Yes, Delenn." Then he turned to Selene and gave her the 'get out' look. It wasn't that he disliked her or wanted her dead. He always had an appreciation of anyone who reveled in the heat of battle and fought with passion. For him it was a hobby. He liked it and wouldn't apologize. So, after seeing Selene earlier, he had to give her one or two more points. She was enjoying herself just as much as he was. That didn't mean he wanted to deal with her right now or during the mission. He wasn't actually sure why. What he did want to deal with was Delenn. He went to the door and opened it for Selene. Not exactly subtle either but he hadn't intended it to be. Then he looked at Delenn for several seconds. She met his gaze and whipped out her super special 'bend to my will immediately' smile. He just rolled his eyes and went back to what he was doing before Selene arrived. [She always gets her way!]

Michael Garibaldi was getting a little annoyed with John Sheridan. He was his commanding officer and his friend but some times Garibaldi got the feeling Sheridan didn't realize what else he was. There was no way around this plan of theirs. They knew when they decided on a course of action months ago that this was how it would be. He didn't, however, anticipate the captain setting himself of as bait de jour. But Stephen going out with him set off every single warning bell and red flag he had. He knew that meant something VERY specific and he knew there was a potential to loose both of them at the same time. That was not something he wanted to see happen. There really wasn't much he could do about their actions from a security perspective. They are both special people with particular roles to play. That didn't mean he couldn't try to even up some of the odds in their favor.

Stephen Franklin had been on White Star Prime quite a bit over the last month. This time, he immediately noticed some changes. Well, long before that actually when he got into his shuttle with his guards he noticed another shuttle powering up at the same time. When it landed in White Star Prime he glanced over to see the rest of his guards get out. There really wasn't anything he could do about it so complaining wouldn't be productive. He just walked off. As he passed through the ship he noticed a lot more people on board than usual. When he stopped into the captain's office after dropping off his things in the guest quarters he got his answer.

"There seem to be a few extra people on board?"

Sheridan shook his head and rolled his eyes, "Yeah, that would be ALL of my security. Not just the ones on duty. Someone, who will remain nameless, got the bright idea to send up 16 extra guards."

Stephen grimaced and nodded,

"Yeah, I didn't come up here alone either. He sent an extra shuttle with more guards. Usually he's subtle about that kind of thing. This time it seems like he doesn't care if I notice."

"I've found that just ignoring the situation works best. Otherwise it'll give me a headache."

They didn't talk about what was going to happen for either of them personally. And they didn't talk about why Stephen stated he was coming along this time. They did talk about where they were going and how they would capture the attention of all those desperately seeking Sheridan. Then, the doctor within couldn't help it and he just had to go to the medical bay and check in with the healers on board. Not one single person on that ship thought he came aboard to serve in any medical capacity whatsoever. That did not make them feel any better about the mission. But, they knew they could not change this so they stepped up their watchfulness and protection of both.

The Minbari Fleet was briefed first on what was going to happen. Not that they got the full story but that really didn't matter. The story they were given sounded just off the wall enough to be something that group would come up with. None of them wanted White Star Prime anywhere near what was to come but were shut down from complaining by his firm look on the subject. Word got out that the Soulwalker was to join him on this final engagement and they all had mixed reactions because they could not tell if that was a good or bad sign. None of them missed White Star 14 taking off an hour after the Council met without a word to anyone. No one missed that ship belonging to the captain's associate land in White Star 3's shuttle bay. Yeah, they all suspected something was going on. But when station Rangers informed the Fleet that Selene was with Cole headed to the shuttle bay where they met Entil'Zha and Lennier then headed for White Star 2, they knew that group had something up their sleeves. The problem was, with any of them you just never knew what to expect.

Word spread quickly that the Vorlons were headed back to the auditorium. They needed the time to get over and adjust to the things they had revealed to them. Fortified, from restful sleep and normal activities around the camp, they felt comfortable or at least braced for what they were about to see. They wondered if something had happened to the captain and that was what they were to see. The Nine were so thankful for having to remain hooded because Rathenn's words were still ringing in their ears.

Turval's words came back to members of the Grey Council as they all turned to one another after watching the Vorlon greet Fannol and Talia by name! Durhan was trying to flow with the Universe's plan but thought the Vorlons were giving away just a bit too much information if the others were to have any sense of privacy or a normal life.

Shanmal was so relieved to see that his friends were still alive. All of them gasped at the sight of the assortment and number of Dark beings those three fought. They saw the dead Technomages and could not believe their Anla'Shok had defeated them. One look at their Rangers and everyone knew it was a horrible battle. Their hearts went out to them as they watched Talia kneel before them and quietly explain that their prayers were answered, they were safe now and that they had come for them.

But then everyone started trying to guess where those three might have been. They knew Entil'Zha banned all Rangers from Earth Alliance and Centauri space. That let everyone know she felt the Darkness too great and the danger too extreme for her Anla'Shok. To know that these three were somewhere that caused them to be attacked by all those creatures, made them suspicious as to their location. When they heard Talia lay down the law they knew exactly where they were and it made them all cringe.

"I understand this is your area of space and that you all have been fighting in accordance with your plan. The Army of Light has a different plan. So if you would be so kind as to give us the location of any bases we might not be aware of, we will add them to our target list. With or without Z'al's assistance, White Star 14 will drive every last Shadow from Centauri space and we will do it in the next 22 hours!"

Kailenn was smiling so wide she looked like she would crack her face. Then she glanced over at Durhan and nodded. He gave her the recognition she was due. Actually, Rathenn was smiling just as proudly as Kailenn. Turval actually laughed. The Nine were confused but now saw that there was another person who knew of this group. They just didn't know they would never get anything from Kailenn. She'd never talk. Those who knew Talia were a little surprised by her demeanor until they thought about it and decided that they weren't. They were impressed 'cause they knew she meant every word she said.

What they weren't prepared for was the strange conversation between Fannol, Talia and the Vorlon. None of them ever met a Vorlon before. Now they seemed to just be popping up all over the place.

"Isil'Zha. Becoming. Unmake."

She nodded then responded,

"Scamper. Horror. Renewal."

He made some kind of whirling sound and turned to Fannol,

"Surprise. Reflection. Unknown."

Fannol looks at him and shakes his head,

"Circle complete."

Everybody wanted to know how Talia and Fannol could understand it let alone talk like it. They all tried to piece together the words. All they knew for sure is that it had something to do with Captain Sheridan. That was the only word they were certain of its meaning. The Nine realized staying on board that ship all the time isn't the best way to gather information or an understanding of what is really going on and decide they won't do as their predecessors. In fact, they were thinking Tuzanor and the Anla'Shok headquarters looked mighty comfortable and a good place to spend a considerable amount of quality time relaxing in the future.

When the projection stopped they knew there was more to come because the Vorlons were just standing around. They took that time to speculate. Finally, lights dimmed and it started up again.

G'Kar knew White Star 9 was going to need a complete overhaul by the time this war ended because they seemed to be a serious magnet for everything Shadow and Dark. A few close calls and a few near misses too many but they made it out of Earth Alliance space by the absolute skin of their teeth. Fortunately, they were faster opening a jump point than the Shadows and the unknown group on their tail. When G'Kar mentioned they were Technomages, Garibaldi had a fit,

"I thought you said that they found the tech AFTER the last Shadow war."

"They have their own reasons for doing things."

"Uh, uh. Explain."

G'Kar snaps his fingers as he remembers something and turns to Michael,

"Oh, did I happen to mention that there are two very different kinds of Technomages?"

At this point everybody on the bridge basically cringes 'cause they think he's going to explode.

All this is going on while the ship is being hit with weapons fire from so many different kinds of beings that tactical is just firing at will and not even bothering to implement targeting solutions for the various ships. Shadow, Technomage, Other, they don't care at this point and are just shooting at any and everything as the ship rocks noticeably from side to side. Pieces of ship and bridge are falling down all around them. And they're diving for cover while Michael's ordering evasive maneuvers and trying push the engines as far as they'll go since they're being attacked inside hyper space and can't actually get away.

"NO. You most certainly did not mention that. You pick NOW, this moment to bring it up???"

Yep, they know Michael Garibaldi. G'Kar just shakes his head like he's the injured party.

"Really, Michael, there is no need to shout."

Trying not to pop a blood vessel,

"Are those the ones chasing us? I mean are those the ones chasing us along with the Shadows and the 14 additional kinds of Dark beings no one else in the universe but us seems to know exists?"

"Hard to say." Then he plops down in his chair like nothing's happening.

"G'Kar, you got 5 seconds to start explaining this. The rest of us aren't Kha'Ri."

Apparently that does the trick 'cause G'Kar seems to realize they don't actually know this stuff. As he barely ducks in time for a piece of the com station to fly over his head he starts talking fast.

"Several thousand years before the last Shadow war a group was given some tech by the Shadows. They weren't technically servants or allies. But the Shadows thought that corrupting them with tech would make it easier for them and others to embrace Darkness over Light."

Michael's following this. Makes a strange bit of sense.

"They didn't help the Shadows fight in the last war. It took less than a millennium, a few centuries really, for them to officially forget where they got the tech if anyone asked. Now they think they're just as powerful as the Shadows. They have no clue about the actual workings of the universe or the Universe because they insist on believing that they are at the top of the food chain. That is what they teach the young ones and that's how the cycle continues. I suspect they did not meet any of the various creatures of Darkness we have to deal with until very recently. I doubt it was pretty."

They are barely hanging on to their seats and everyone's getting dizzy from the spinning and whirling of the ship back and forth and all around. G'Kar and Michael are busy shouting out orders to different bridge stations at the same time. Then they pick up their conversation,

"Ok. So what's their relationship to the second group of Technomages?"

"They all dress the same?"

"G'Kar!"

"The second group, the one that is only 1,000 years old, doesn't know their true history. But, that is their greatest secret. Its confusing but it really does not matter now."

"Why?"

"Because BOTH groups are trying to kill us!"

"Oh."

They all sit there not really liking seeing a White Star taking that kind of beating or the outside view of all those ships chasing them. None of them have ever seen anything like that before. They note that not only are the two giving orders to the crew in Andorando but they are holding a private conversation in it as well. That's not so strange except one is a human, not of the Anla'Shok and the other is Narn. Its an eye opener for them just how many people understand their culture. What they find fascinating is that, once again, the members of the War Council seem to add levity to even the worst situations. None of the Minbari can understand how they can carry on a conversation like that when death is almost certain. They are all curious about all these other Dark beings Mr. Garibaldi spoke of. They never knew anything could be worse than a Shadow until they saw that thing fight Kosh. Then they saw the things attacking the three Anla'Shok in Centauri space. They aren't sure but they are starting to get an idea of the risks they were talking about it their meeting. Once the viewing ended, the Vorlons turned and left the room so they did to.

When Delenn did not want to tell him the specifics of this mission he knew his instincts were correct and that she and Marcus were planning something of extreme danger. It was to be the final engagement of the war. That was a surprise to Lennier along with everyone else. They hadn't gotten all the Shadows had they? Lennier's contacts gave him a complete briefing from the Fleet. It still didn't add up. Selene's visit and her cryptic words cinched for Lennier, he knew exactly what he was going to do. After packing his bag he went to collect Delenn and walk her to the shuttle bay. When he saw the unguarded expression of horror and pain on her face once he announced he was coming along, he knew. He would also not be deterred in this matter and gave her his combination displeased with her subterfuge and determined to see this through look. She couldn't refuse him.

Word or whatever passes for that in both the First Ones and kingdom of Darkness language spread that the younger ones had called the Gathering. That was news to many. They did not know the younger races knew it was possible to do so. Well, not to those who spent the last few million years or so hanging around waiting to see how it would play out. Even with Lorien on board as her ace in the hole, Susan has some serious problems when those who did not know him or know that they were not the 'greatest' showed up to take a few shots at White Star 3. That's when her back door opened and the calvary came riding to the rescue. She couldn't believe it. Lorien was surprised as well. The bridge crew merely noted it as another occurrence on the mission without comment or reaction. Apparently, the Walkers of Sigma 957 don't get involved in her willing Shadow engagements. They do, however, seem to have a problem with unspecified, uninvited, and plain old 'other' Darkness showing up and ganging up on their Oracle.

Lennier watched Delenn watch Marcus pretend not to watch Selene. He found this fascinating and another oddity of human behavior. But then he watched Delenn watch Selene pretend not to watch Marcus. From that self satisfied smile on her face, Lennier knew that Delenn was working on another one of her "plans" if they should all survive this war. All that ended when Selene turned to Delenn,

"Something is happening. Something is coming and it isn't a Shadow."

That surprised both Delenn and Marcus but Lennier didn't bat an eye. He went out on White Star 3 enough in the beginning that he really was not moved by these kinds of expressions from any of them. Both of them made eye contact then looked at her and wondered what she knew.

"Technomages!"

They heard fear and dread and pain. She did not understand why the others were not moved by them.

"What is the problem?"

"They are the ones who killed your Anla'Shok on Earth and Mars! That is what I was coming to the meeting to report."

They did not wish to have any dealings with Technomages but none of them thought they were in league with the Shadows or other Darkness. They were suppose to be waking the First Ones, now they have to deal with these. Still, they are confused why Draal would stop her from revealing this. Then Delenn thinks about the Rangers in Centauri space and understands. Still she'd like more details. Selene is becoming more and more agitated and distressed. Marcus can tell she's experiencing a psychic memory flashback that she cannot disengage herself from. Without thinking he attempts to break it by jumping into the middle of it. Bad idea and a big mistake because now he cannot pull away from the horrifying sight.

Delenn realizes what is going on but does not know what to do to assist. She is not a telepath and does not know if it is harmful to try to shake a person out of this state. She moves to stand next to Marcus, prepared to aid him in any way necessary while Lennier moves toward Selene. They are still scanning checking for Technomages when sensors pick up a ship. There are a few of them and they are now in pursuit just like Delenn hoped. But, she still wants to get their First Ones and more of these Dark ones they've learned of since Stephen started explaining the other who died fighting Kosh.

He wanted to know how they died. He knew that information was crucial to them somehow. He also wanted to know why they died. Because of that he must watch all 16 of them. Only now does he realize WHY he did not feel them die. Selene is coming around. Whatever Marcus did pulled her out of it and she is back to herself and fine. Then she sees that he is not and rushes to him, nearly knocking Delenn out of the way. Lennier and Delenn make eye contact at that. She is not upset in the least. She feels that will merely aid her in her plans. Lennier almost rolls his eyes.

When Marcus hits the floor everyone is shocked. Lennier is wondering if he should call for a healer or mind healer when Marcus can do nothing except stare at Delenn and Selene. He turns his head back and forth between the two in amazement and says nothing. Then he looks at Selene hard. She has no idea what the problem is and is broadcasting her thoughts pretty loudly for a telepath so he picks up on them. [Why the hell is he looking at me like I'm a bug or something? I'm grateful and glad he saved me from that, though I wish he wouldn't have hurt himself to do it. And he's still looking at me like I'm a bug! I thought we'd gotten past that and were friends. Or at least hopefully on the way to being friends.] She let go of his arm and was about to stand up 'cause she feels pretty stupid at this point. All the Rangers were staring at her and they were still fleeing from Technomages. Plus, she was absolutely certain they were now all suspicious of her having something to do with the Rangers' deaths when she wasn't.

He picked up all those other stray thoughts too and felt bad. She misunderstood why he was looking at her. He didn't mean to gather information when they were linked but he's a pretty powerful telepath and he was in the middle of her psychic smack down at the time. Now he understands why Stephen told him not to scan her. Though much of it makes no sense he realizes he has information about her that she doesn't even know exists. He pulls himself away from that line of thinking to reassure her she's not a bug. He grabbed hold of her arm as she pulled away,

"Are you alright?"

"I should be asking you that Marcus. Thank you, I couldn't get out of it."

"They felt you feel them. That's when they decided to scramble your brain. If you hadn't said anything we wouldn't have known to scan for them and they could have snuck up on us. Which was the plan."

She smiled and nodded, thanking the Universe for her darker complexion because she was pretty sure from the heat on her face she was blushing and really didn't want to advertise any increases on her idiot scale after that outburst.

Delenn does not want to interrupt as they seem to be having an honest conversation for the first time on the mission but needs to get some information about her Rangers and these Technomages.

"I thought G'Kar said they fight the Shadows."

"He did. And he said it was for their own reasons. Its complicated from what I could see but the ones following us are pretty much the same if not worse than Shadows. As for the Rangers––we'll talk about that later."

Then he leveled her with the 'this qualifies as a super Satai secret' look and she nodded in response. Delenn now seriously hopes that they live through the mission and the final engagement so that she could learn that piece of information!

White Star Prime is quiet. The captain and Stephen were on the bridge for most of the trip. He didn't want to concern anyone by not keeping command but he knew he had to prepare. As if sensing this, Stephen turned to him and nodded. Sheridan knew the ship could fly without him on the bridge. That look from Stephen was all he really needed to go do what he needed to do.

Stephen got up a few minutes later and headed to the chapel. This was going to be difficult for him on many levels and he felt the weight of his responsibility. The crew saw all of this and knew their instincts were correct that there was some part to this mission that they did not know about. The old crew members were kicking themselves for not picking up on this after his taking off to Z'ha'dum but they let that Shadow attack on the station lull them into thinking that was the reason for all of their distressed behavior the night before. They start looking at each other as if putting the pieces together. White Star 14 takes off first without waiting for the briefing or word to anyone, White Star 3 leaves with no squad to parts unknown after the captain's associate comes on board, White Star 2 takes off with Marcus, Lennier and Selene with no back up, White Star 9 also has no support ships with them to assist either and they know they should watch Mr. Garibaldi closely, then Dr. Franklin boards White Star Prime and takes bridge duty. They don't have any support ships either and Mr. Garibaldi allowed that.

Everyone was a little relieved by that last projection. They had confirmation that the Rangers lived and were being cared for. They wonder how Delenn felt them being attacked all the way in Centauri space. They also want to know what they were doing in Centauri space. All of them knew the Vorlons did not show them everything that happened on the planet but they gave them enough to understand what was going on. And ALL of them got a kick out of Talia letting them know what was going to happen. How White Star 14 was going to do it, they had no clue. But she convinced them it was possible. Finally, no one could come up with a definitive answer on that conversation between the Vorlon, Talia and Fannol. They really didn't know he spoke Vorlon. They had plenty of time to speculate and discuss these and other things among themselves while they waited to be called into the auditorium for the next round. White Star 9's predicament did not sit well with any of them but the actions and demeanor of Mr. Garibaldi and G'Kar eased their minds and made them smile. If those two could laugh during their battle, so could they.

The next time they were summoned they were in a good mood. Many thought they would get to see Entil'Zha or Susan this time. They were disappointed. Every person in the room felt they had crossed some kind of line with this projection. They wanted to see the War Council behind closed doors and were amazed at what they saw and how they interacted. This was different. This was personal and they felt beyond private. Why the Vorlons had to show them this they did not know. They watched in silence and hoped it wouldn't be something they could not live with later.

Captain Sheridan walked the garden on White Star Prime with an intense and thoughtful expression on his face. Everyone remembered what he said about having a part of the mission that only he could do. Apparently it would not be pleasant. They watched in absolute silence and he finally walked over to a bench and sat down. They saw him fold his hands in the form of a triangle then bow his head and pray. None of them could understand why they were watching something this private and felt they should turn away in protest to the Vorlons but knew that they could not deny whatever message the Universe sent them to give. That's when they saw it. All of them seemed to see it at the same time because everyone gasped and shrieked at the same time. Nine Light beings hovering around him as he prayed.

While the Vorlons were offering show and tell with John Sheridan's private life to the entire Anla'Shok headquarter, his security was monitoring him and saw the same thing. Susan thought she should collect on all the free shows people got at her expense but that is nothing compared to what they owe Captain Sheridan.

He looked up, smiled and shook his head when he saw them hovering around. [poetic justice right?] They wanted to chat.

"Choose."

"I accept."

"Debts owed."

"The Minbari?"

"Yes."

"I'll pay their debts."

"All Minbari?"

"Yes."

"Gathering awaits."

"Yes. I called it."

"Last ones."

"I'll stand for them."

"Who?"

"All the younger races."

"Death. Tears. Horror."

He couldn't help it and his irreverent morbid sense of humor kicked in. He chuckled,

"I figured that was probably how this would end for me. Anyway you guys can make it less painful than the last time? Never mind." He laughed softly and shook his head.

"Prepare."

He stood and straightened his uniform before facing the Light being who led the interrogation. He looked directly at it and in Andorando said,

"And so it begins."

Then he and the all the Light beings were gone in a flash.

Nobody moved. Not at Tuzanor and not on White Star Prime. They could not believe the conversation they just overheard or the sight they just beheld. They did not know what it meant. The Light beings said Minbari owed debts. What debts? Then they considered that the Universe could charge what it liked. But Captain Sheridan was going to pay them? That couldn't be right. Why would he do that? How could he do that? Then they remembered he was Isil'Zha. And what was that about him representing the younger races? None of them could fathom just what the Universe expected him to do. And they each began to realize what kind of burden being Chosen came with.

The Nine turned to each other in horror and fright when they heard that the Minbari owed debts. They considered Rathenn's words again and the deep meaning. But they could not believe it when Captain Sheridan said he would pay whatever debts the Universe said all Minbari owed. Yes, he is Isil'Zha but this human from the youngest race was going to do something like that for Minbari? And not one person in that auditorium missed him actually admit to having come back from the dead. He had never spoken on it. Ivanova never spoke on it. She never said he died only that he lives just before he walked into the room. [Yes, she is very good at misdirection herself] The Vorlons did not move and none of them could move so everyone stayed seated where they were.

Rathenn was of the same mind as Durhan but he knew there had to be a very good reason for this. He still did not like everyone having this type of personal information about Captain Sheridan. The Three were accustomed to thinking of themselves as the guardians of that group's secrets. The Vorlons were making things very difficult for them. None of them were prepared for this but each of them knew he would accept whatever challenge or test was put before him. Silently, they each came to the same conclusion. No one in the room could deny his identity. No one could offer any excuse for not understanding. And, no one could deny that he made several sacrifices on their behalf. The Light beings were clear. Minbari owed something and Sheridan was paying it back.

Security rushed to the chapel and were not surprised that Dr. Franklin was gone, though they did not like it one bit. White Stars, 2, 3, 9, and 14 made their appointment on time. White Star Prime did not know who to inform that the captain was gone—again. Though they had a better excuse for losing him this time. Security made a recording of what happened in the garden and gave it to Tathann. They feared it would be the only thing that would keep them alive once Mr. Garibaldi found out that the captain was no longer on board. Tathann hoped they would be excused from whatever was to come when he considered that they had no way of knowing he'd take off with them or that they'd show up. They weren't really sure what they could use in defense of Dr. Franklin's departure.

Marcus said nothing as the three Light beings showed up on the bridge once they arrived at the meeting place. Selene looked beyond awed. She'd never seen Ari'ahn outside of his encounter suit. Lennier KNEW this was the other part in the plan that Delenn was probably hiding from everyone. Yes, she looked surprised to see them but did not find it strange and just went off with them. That's when Marcus contacted White Star Prime to find out if the captain and Stephen were on board. Their silence was enough. Then he contacted White Stars 3, 9, and 14 to update them. Susan had command of the Fleet so she was about to send out a message to all ships on what to do when she was preempted.

When the lights dimmed again 20 minutes later they still had not regained their senses. Every single one of them desperately hoped they would not have to watch the captain die. The Nine stood frozen. Instead they saw the bridge of White Star 2 as three Light beings appeared,

"Entil'Zha Delenn."

"Yes."

"Prepare."

She turned to Marcus and told him that he had command and to carry on. Then looked back at them and nodded. With that, she was gone.

Tuzanor did not know what to think. The Nine did not know what to think. They still did not know what this Gathering was specifically though they got the impression after watching Mr. Garibaldi and G'Kar that they were gathering many great beings and not just Shadows. When they consider the captain's words about standing to represent the younger races they considers that some First Ones are there as well.

Next everyone at Tuzanor and across the Fleet gets the same view. They see a room with Captain Sheridan, Entil'Zha and Dr. Franklin. The Three know who he is and are not looking well at all. The thought of his identity getting out to this many people caused them great fear. They did not know if someone would harm him and they were taking this VERY personal.

Stephen was silent standing in a corner. Sheridan was standing near the center in the exact spot they dropped him off. Delenn was sitting quietly and patiently. A thing that looks worse than the other walks into the room and right up to Sheridan. Before he can attack, it is brought up short and slams against the wall. It recovers then looks around and sees Stephen. It pulls back but isn't prepared to back down completely.

"You cannot interfere. You cannot protect him."

"I will not. But you will follow the rules."

"The rules? How can they apply? How can one so young as humans know the rules?"

"You're here aren't you? Every First One in existence is here."

"How does he have the power to call the Gathering??? It has not been attempted in over 5 million years!"

Stephen's getting tired of this conversation. Plus he knows its going out to the Fleet as proof things will end but they don't need a lot of specific information. Especially about him.

"Its been called. You are here."

Stephen moves further into the room and turns to the captain,

"Captain Sheridan, what is the charge?"

"The First Ones have outlived their usefulness. They no longer are needed among the younger races. To everything there is a season and a purpose. Their time has passed. Darkness is no longer welcome within our sphere of existence. We have embraced Light and will no longer tolerate the Dark forces of your making. Not just the Shadows. They are all gathered here today to choose. Leave or die."

"What do you mean, not just the Shadows? How do you know? What do you know?"

"Does it matter what I know or how I know it? No. Every Shadow, every Technomage, every other, every creature of Darkness and chaos influencing, corrupting, manipulating, or enslaving the younger races is gathered in this place today. You are here and you are the Darkest of them all."

That does not sit well with it at all and it attempts to strike the captain dead. It slams into the wall again and turns to Stephen with narrowed eyes but does not speak. It knows not to cross that line.

"As I said, you will follow the rules."

It turns to Sheridan not liking the situation it is in one bit. It shakes its head in realization and slight awe.

"So, you are the Chosen. The One. After all this time, I did not actually believe you would arrive."

He's sort of sizing the captain up in a way to psych him out. Walking (or whatever that creature does) around the captain with disdain.

"I began to suspect you were a myth or a legend. The Greatest Soul ever to exist. I did not think it possible. And human at that."

Then it laughs some eery cackling sound.

"We shall see. There are quite a few who owe me. I think you have no idea what you've agreed to and I think I will enjoy this. Plenty of debts I have to collect so I'm not going anywhere just yet. But, I think you are."

All this posturing is kinda getting on Stephen's nerves but since its allowed within the rules he doesn't object. He does have to intervene with something and hopes it stays veiled.

"Certain debts owed to you will be covered by Captain Sheridan. He has agreed to pay their ransom."

"NO! The Avatar cannot do that. I will...."

Stephen's had enough at this point and produces a list for him,

"Do not speak the name of the one Captain Sheridan has agreed to pay on their behalf. You see it there and you know it to be true. As for the others, that is not an issue or a concern."

It sees that it is trapped and cornered with that one. Fine, it'll get started.

"Very well. He has agreed to be tested? He has agreed to the judgment and penalty of failure? He has agreed to stand in the place of all the younger races? To defend them all?"

It doesn't actually believe the captain agreed to any of that or that he even knew that was a possibility so he names all these things off.

Sheridan's decided he doesn't really like being talked over so he speaks up,

"Yes. I agreed to all of that."

Not the answer it was looking for but it recovers thinking all is not lost. Stephen continues,

"Then let it begin."

With those words both the creature and Captain Sheridan are gone.

No one across the Fleet or back in Tuzanor knows what to think. This was beyond anything anyone of them have ever heard in their entire lives. They never even heard of a Gathering. Now those in the Fleet outside the Minbari and Anla'Shok are wondering who he is that that thing wondered if he was a myth or legend. Before any of them can start to discuss what is happening, Shadows appear. Great big huge ugly Shadows are walking around the room and head straight for Delenn.

The Three, Marcus, Susan, and the Nine are hoping that her secret does not get out.

Delenn had her head bowed during the entire exchange between Sheridan and the creature. She did not know what to expect when she arrived and they did not speak. She sensed he needed to be focused. Once Stephen mentioned something about rules, she suspected that she would be tested as well. The Shadows waste no time,

"And you are the Blessed one? If we had known you were the one Chosen of Light before today we would have taken care of you long ago. Let us see how strong your faith really is. We think you will not survive this. We think you will beg to join us. Come, to the Darkest place of all."

Delenn has no time to speak, protest, agree or object. They whipped up her up and she was gone in a black cloud of smoke.

Stephen sat quietly on the sofa with his head bowed. Most people assumed he was praying for either or both of them and took their cues from him.

Once they got down to the specifics of exactly what they were supposed to do and the meeting broke up, Tafali pulled Vir aside and explained his theory that something really huge involving Captain Sheridan was going down.

"I get that you say he's probably very important to the Minbari and the Anla'Shok, its just that I was, and am, concerned about the Centauri. Those are the lives we're immediately responsible for."

"I hear you Vir, but you heard her. They were going to do it. One ship. She was planning on taking one ship and driving out all the Shadows in 22 hours. I'd say that was impossible but I watched Rangers fast and pray non stop for a week then go out and fight the battle to end all battles. They killed Technomages. There's a lot of impossible stuff going on."

"What aren't you saying because I know you're thinking a lot."

"That this is partially about Captain Sheridan or it may be all about him. But I get the feeling, no I'm almost positive that he's more than just important to the Minbari and the Vorlons. And that means he's important to us."

"Get to the point Tafali. I know you're leaving something out." Vir laughs cause he knows its true.

"Fine. I want to go out with them and I want to be there to see whatever or however this works out. And you need to be there as well."

Vir thinks about that for a few moments and agrees that it won't hurt and he is very curious.

Once the broadcast popped onto their forward screen on the bridge and they saw Captain Sheridan, Delenn and Dr. Franklin in a room Tafali knew he was right that something was going down. Once that thing came in and went straight for Sheridan, who didn't move, he knew it was going to be big. But after Dr. Franklin started talking about rules and Sheridan made the charge Tafali just sat back in his chair and tried not to choke. He had no idea it would be THAT big.

By the time they start hearing that thing referring to Sheridan as a myth or legend Tafali is looking at Vir with the Granddaddy of all 'I told you so' looks on his face. Vir's mouth is just hanging wide open.

"How is any of this possible?"

"He returned from Z'ha'dum."

"Tafali that can't be your answer every time you explain Captain Sheridan."

"Yeah, you got a better one? Seriously, I don't understand the particulars of all these rules and things but I know what I see. That man got every single First One and every single Dark creature in the universe in one spot. He said leave or die. He's kicking the First Ones out. Well, if he doesn't get killed in whatever test they're putting him through. You heard it, he agreed to take the heat for ALL the younger races. It doesn't get any bigger than that."

"True."

There was an extensive amount of simultaneous praying going on aboard every single White Star and War Cruiser in the Fleet. Not to be out done, Tuzanor was right in the thick of it. They all realized when Dr. Franklin said that thing could not speak the name of the one the captain was settling debts for, they were not the only ones watching this portion of the events and that was his attempt at discretion on behalf of the Minbari. They appreciated it. The Nine seemed to all scrunch up their faces and squint their eyes behind those hoods at the same time. They were absolutely positive they now knew the identity of the Soulwalker. Kailenn is suspecting as much and is kicking herself for not having sensed that when he was there. Instead, she knows how to fix his little wagon. Something tells her that they'll all find their way to Tuzanor within the next few months once the war ends. She is very aware that they have a civil war to face and knows they will need rest. She's planning on being on hand and available for each of them. But Dr. Franklin will NOT escape her grasp!

Selene didn't hear the exchange between the Shadows and Delenn. She didn't actually hear Stephen signal the testing of Captain Sheridan to begin. As soon as she heard Captain Sheridan say that he agreed to be tested she hit her knees right there on the bridge without a thought to anyone or caring what they saw. She knew he was going to go through something beyond anything anyone from the younger races had endured and he was doing it on behalf of them all. No, as far as she was concerned the praying should have started long before it got to that point but she was too caught up in the amazing things she was seeing and hearing. If she'd waited a few more minutes she would've known to include Delenn but she could not and did not wait. One or two heads turned in her direction but only from surprise that, that would be her response. They did not know her or her people. They did not know what they believed.

Marcus knew something more was to come or the Light beings wouldn't have taken Delenn. No one wanted to see those Shadows coming for her or hear the way they spoke. Someone was quick thinking on the bridge and signaled for a healer immediately. Once the Shadows said they were taking Delenn to the Darkest place of all and she disappeared; the only thing heard on the bridge was a strangled cry like that of a wounded animal and then a thump as Lennier hit the floor in a dead faint. It really had been a stressful two days for Lennier. Technically, the past year threw more distressful things at him than ever before in his entire life. And Delenn seemed determined to be in the middle of all of them. They carried Lennier off to the medical bay and attended to him there.

Many secrets were coming out that day, some more containable than others but the bridge of White Star 2 was not so sure. Marcus started glowing and it was just as bright or brighter than the Vorlons who came for Delenn. They did not know what to do or what it meant. They did not notice him at first because most of their attention was focused on Lennier. Plus, Marcus had done as Selene and dropped to his knees as well so they did not see him on the floor. They did see light and went to have a look. No one knew what to make of that and they were all amazed. But then after about 10 minutes, they noticed Selene was giving off a faint glow of her own. At this point, the Anla'Shok were convinced of two things. 1) No one would find out about either of them so they sealed the bridge doors. 2) No one would utter a word of what they saw——or now what they've officially decided they did not see.

The Vorlons ended the projection and left the auditorium. Everyone was down right shocked and dismayed that they would do such a thing. Take them all the way to that point and then stop? They realized that whatever test the captain and Delenn would face must be long. That did not go over very well at all. They also realized that as long as the Vorlons did not leave the building, they would know more. The Three turned and walked away in silence. The Nine followed. All twelve were numb and their nerves were raw. This was beyond anything any of them knew was possible and they had a serious amount of prayer and meditation to complete on behalf of the two who were standing in their place. Many started to question the presence of the Vorlon Fleet now. If Sheridan hadn't volunteered to pay their debts, they seriously considered that thing would have collected and the Vorlons would have moved out of the way and left them to their fate.

Susan sent out a short message across the Fleet not addressing the situation or what she knew everyone was watching. All she said was to maintain position and combat readiness until further notice but not to engage until her command. Then she cut the channel and headed off to her quarters. She knew her crew would not visit the chapel if she were there and she wanted them to feel free to use it. As she left the bridge, "I'll be in my quarters until it ends. Carry on and call if you need me." Lorien got up from his seat on the bridge and walked off. Not 10 seconds later they all saw him enter the room with Dr. Franklin and sit down. They knew that room was not aboard White Star 3. Their suspicions about that one were great and quiet speculation ran wild over the last few months. This left them with only two possibilities and they couldn't believe they were thinking either. But they were.

The three Z'al who started their prayer vigil on behalf of the Rangers stopped for only one thing and some people thought it was very weird the way they moved. They went to their rooms, packed and changed then headed to wait for the others. No one told them about the crazy mission they agreed to with White Star 14 so how could they know? Once they boarded their ship, the crews just knew they would be of no physical assistance during the following 22 hours because they went to crew quarters and picked up their praying again. They did not stop throughout Centauri space and they did not stop once they got to the meeting place. Someone was going to let them know that the battle ought to be starting soon when they got the word on Sheridan, Delenn and Franklin in some room. Others among the crew were starting to get the eery feeling that those somehow had an idea or knew what was coming. It didn't sit too well. It also didn't matter. By the time the broadcast ended, they were all praying along with the rest of them.

Londo and Refa left Cartagia and did not stop until they were far enough from the palace to insure that they were alone and no one was listening. He is very good at keeping the facade of composure in place at all times. Today tested his ability. He could not believe what Cartagia said. Once they were in quiet Londo turned to Refa,

"Great Maker! What madness has he fated us to?"

Refa wasn't feeling so hot himself. "My thoughts exactly when I arrived. Not of my own free will. He summoned me from the Narn home world to counsel him on a personal matter. I had no idea he would do such a thing."

Londo thinks for a few minutes knowing there are several things that must take place very soon.

"The Shadows must leave. We must get them off the planet immediately. Can the Minister of Defense be contacted? Surely if he knows what Cartagia intends for the Centauri he will attack."

Refa isn't looking any better than he felt at this point, "We don't control the Ministry of Defense."

There wasn't any need for him to say more. Londo got it. Before he could change to the subject of Cartagia's fate, Refa said something else that intrigued him.

"I have heard rumors. Reports that seem creditable. There is a group of Centauri fighting the Shadows."

"Who and how is that possible? Why have I never heard of them?"

"You were—confined Londo. You did not hear much. Anyway, this group is some religious not military group..."

Londo begins to moan at that. His hope for an armed insurrection and some kind of calvary went down the drain.

"Let me finish Mollari! They are some kind of religious group like the Anla'Shok. The Minbari's Rangers. Not much is known about them. They apparently spent all their time locked away in their temple praying and chanting or something until they learned of Cartagia's deal with the Shadows. Then they went to work."

"Work? What have they been doing?" His mind is turning this over and something seems off.

"Attacking outer colonies. The Shadows have bases all over the entire Republic! Not just Centauri Prime. They are destroying them. No one can tell where they're coming from and no word or identity of their ships. They get in and get out fast. That is all I know."

"Is there a way to contact any of them?"

"No one knows who they are or where they are. They apparently don't run around dressed in uniform like the Rangers shouting that they are fighting the Darkness and driving the Shadows out. Considering the Centauri's position on this, it wouldn't be healthy."

Always one to appreciate a conspiracy or under cover plot, Londo nods his agreement.

"Very well for them but that does not help us. Cartagia hasn't asked them yet. Morden arrives tomorrow."

"What are you suggesting?"

"You know what I am thinking because you are thinking the same thing. And you know it is the only way to prevent him making a funeral priar out of Centauri Prime. To think he actually want to massacre us all so that we will not be lost when he ascends to godhood." The disgust wasn't even concealed in that last sentence.

Refa cannot object. He agrees completely with everything Londo said. He's also trying to figure out if he'll have any consequences for his deal with them. Then he wonders out loud,

"What about the Army of Light? Perhaps the Fleet might be of assistance?"

"You do not know Susan Ivanova. She would get rid of the Shadows on Centauri Prime. Unfortunately she would do it with such zeal I suspect a great deal of our planet would end up in smoke as well. They are used to fighting in open space. If the Shadows won't rise from the planet and go to them, the Fleet would have to come to the Shadows. We don't want that. We do want these religious zealot though. If they are Centauri, they will understand. Hopefully."

The made preparations for dealing with Cartagia. Poison has always been the fashionable means of revolution within the monarchy. Neither felt any need to change that. Londo kept his expression neutral but his thoughts were not. [Yes, you seem to embrace the idea of poison and you just 'happen' to suggest the same kind that killed my precious Adira. Well, I'll just 'happen' to have enough for two."

Later that evening, they cornered Cartagia. Mollari said that since Refa was the one to bring the menace to the Republic in the first place and the one to personally benefit the most, he had to get rid of Cartagia. Londo would watch the entrance and act as his protector. Well, he did for part of the time anyway. Once Londo Mollari was certain that Emperor Cartagia was good and injected with poison, he did the same thing to Refa. Then walked from the room. It really worked out wonderful for him, as far as he was concerned. He may have plotted, but he did not kill Cartagia and no one could say he did. Not when Refa lay over his body with the syringe still in his hand and the needle sticking in Cartagia's arm. How Refa died wouldn't really be important. Some would suspect or wonder but that would only increase Londo's standing to have dispatched the one who killed the emperor. [If we survive this Shadow madness]

Somewhere along the way back to his suite, Londo realizes how easy this plan was and that he didn't need G'Kar at all. That his original plan was a bit complicated. He's not sure if he should take G'Kar off his list or not considering his months locked away by Cartagia, he has some understanding of G'Kar's feelings of just wanting to be free. Then he decides it will have to wait until another time. Morden arrives in a few hours and he still has to get rid of the Shadows.

When Londo awoke the next morning he found a note on his pillow. "I could have been murdered in my bed. Who is leaving me notes?" He read it several times before the meaning was clear. He could not believe it. Just yesterday Refa tells him of this group that they contact him.

"We are moving. We will drive the Shadows from Centauri Prime. You need to be prepared for what will happen when they leave. Attend to the palace. Do not send ships from the military to attack us while we are fighting the Shadows. It defeats our collective goal of freeing our people. Freeing Centauri from Cartagia's madness."

Londo considered that they must be coming soon for them to risk sending someone into his room. In a flash, he is up and dressed. Word spread of Refa's actions and Cartagia's demise. Panic began to ensue. Mollari took charge. [Did they know Cartagia would not live through the night? Impossible. Simple coincidence but I will use this to my advantage as well.] What Londo didn't know was that Vir's contact let him know the minute Londo was released. Once he mentioned that to Talia and Fannol, they all got a shock around the table as to the amount of information the War Council had that they did not about what was happening in the palace or on Narn. Vir knew Cartagia wouldn't live long after that.

Londo ordered that both bodies be taken away for autopsy but that word not leave the palace. He did not want the people mourning that fool and getting in the way of whatever was to come. He ordered palace guards on the ready. The moment Morden entered the palace he was taken to the garden. No one had to ask how his day would end. Then all hell seemed to break loose. Massive amounts of Shadow ships could be seen overhead. Morden began to look a little ill but tried to cover it. Everyone was outside the palace and everyone saw the unbelievable. One of those Minbari Ranger ships followed by unknown triangular ships CHASING Shadows from the planet and out of the atmosphere.

Londo could not believe it. Morden would not believe it. He fell to the ground the moment his keepers left him. Abandoned him to go to the others. Londo wasn't sure exactly what was happening because he did not know of keepers but he figured the balance of power had definitely just shifted. And he meant to take advantage of that, as well. He turned to the guards, "You know what to do." Then laughed at Morden and walked away. Just one more beheading on Centauri Prime.

Mai'lenn and Zack continued to put their heads together after the Fleet departed. They knew it was a lot more than a final battle. He was concerned when he learned that ALL the ships in orbit would leaving. League delegates and various ambassadors pitched a fit when Captain Sheridan said all the ships would leave. They did not have the authority to pull their respective ships from his command or from the war effort so they were silent. There was panic and Zack, his teams, and the Rangers all had their hands full.

After all quieted down, people seemed to go back to normal, for Babylon 5, realizing Shadows or Earth Force Destroyers still hadn't come to attack them. Later, C&C linked to both Zack and Mai'lenn at the same time to say that the station was being surrounded by ships. Before Corwin could finish his sentence both of them were yelling for more information and running to C&C. By the time they got there, they were out of breath and almost fell over at the sight in front of them. Vorlon war ships swarming from the jump gate. They took up defensive position around the station. A few unknown ships rose from Epsilon 3 and that surprised everyone. They left C&C to gather their wits and put their heads together. Once seated in security, Zack turned to Mai'lenn,

"Is this a good or a bad thing?"

"I am unsure but I believe it is better than being surrounded by Shadow ships."

They both laugh at that but then they stop laughing when they look up and see a Vorlon enter the office. They're both thinking the same thing. [I am no longer thinking this is a good thing.] It turns to Mai'lenn,

"Gather them." She looks at Zack and he shrugs.

"Who?"

"Anla'Shok."

Now they both realize the Vorlon wants to see all station Rangers. Unusual and spooky but considering the unusual and spooky circumstances, they think that's normal. She nods to him. This is a day for Mai'lenn, never has a Vorlon spoken to her. Then he turns to Zack,

"Gather them."

He really has no clue what that means. It already told Mai'lenn to get the Anla'Shok.

"Who?"

"The faithful."

Zack and Mai'lenn just stare at each other. He's wondering how he's supposed to know who the faithful are!!! He's going into shock so Mai'lenn reaches over and slaps him to bring him out of it. It worked a little too well 'cause now he's looking at her with the, 'was it absolutely necessary to do that' look. The Vorlon is still waiting and Mai'lenn wants to get out of the situation quickly so she turns to it,

"Where?"

"War Room"

Ok. But Zack STILL doesn't know who he's supposed to gather and says that to the Vorlon.

"The truth points to itself." And walked out.

Thank you very much for that bit of clarification. Mai'lenn mentions his special teams and how he only chose those who completed all of Talia, Kailenn and Lennier's classes.

"You already know who the faithful are or you would not have trusted them to protect the captain and Entil'Zha."

He's still not sure. Not confident and doesn't want to make a mistake by bringing someone who doesn't qualify. She picks up on it.

"You already know Zack. You know a lot of things. Gather your people while I gather mine and we'll go to the War Room together."

He's got nothing else so he goes with that. After alerting his special teams, Corwin and some of the other station personnel to meet in the War Room, he and Mai'lenn head over. When she linked into all station Rangers they wanted to know what sign the Vorlons brought?

"You will all find out for yourselves as soon as you go to the War Room. Hurry."

Apparently, the Vorlons did not think those at Babylon 5 needed real time coverage of the great events changing the universe because they got tape delayed. It started with a view of the three Rangers on Centauri Prime and they were all shocked to see what and how they were fighting. They saw the entire battle and many of them wept openly. Who would not. They saw them drop to their knees and begin praying while a Vorlon went to stand near them. Then they saw some dressed like Selene and the other humans take up guard position around them and became suspicious. Zack and Mai'lenn made eye contact.

They trembled at the conversation between the two Technomages talking about Captain Sheridan and they all began to realize that the attack on the station was what they were referring to. None liked that in the least. Zack was thinking the same thing his people were. [How are we supposed to protect him from things like that happening constantly?]

When the view switched to the War Room and the Council meeting in private none of them felt comfortable at all. They looked to one another but they could not rebuke the Vorlon. Never did they know how the others behaved behind closed doors or what they discussed. This was eye opening, entertaining, scary and in the end, moving. They heard Sheridan's words and all looked to one another. Mai'lenn and Zack had their confirmation that they were, indeed, up to something again. Still, they did not understand this gathering.

Talia and the healers helping the three Rangers explained who Entil'Zha felt earlier and they had to wonder how she can do that. More than a few gasps and giggles at Talia's words to those at the table. A mystery was revealed to them all. They see the assortment of people at the table and they see the VERY distinctive hair some of them have even though they are wearing the same uniform as Selene and the others. [They are NOT human! They are Centauri!!!] No one could figure out why the Council kept that a secret and then they realized they knew why it was a secret. Then they realized they better make sure it stays a secret. The scene between Garibaldi and G'Kar was morbid and funny at the same time. Station security got a kick out of seeing the chief yelling at G'Kar. Everyone knew those two spoke their own crazy language at times. None of them found that outside view of all those ships chasing them the least bit funny. Or the beating White Star 9 was taking. And NONE of them wanted to hear G'Kar's final words.

Everyone seemed to have the exact same reaction to seeing Captain Sheridan walking the garden on White Star Prime and all of them realized this was after the Fleet departed. They did not know what to think. They knew with certainty that this was the part of the mission he was supposed to complete on his own. They heard his words. They KNEW what he was agreeing to even if they weren't sure how it was possible. When they saw Entil'Zha disappear the same way, they had a better understanding of what members of the Council agreed to do in secret. This did not reassure any of them. What came next was too much for any of them to process. They knew who Stephen Franklin was but they had no idea what that meant. What he did. Hearing that thing say he couldn't protect him shocked them all. Seeing that thing get slammed against the wall every time he tried to approach the captain and Stephen admonishing him made them realize the good doctor was doing that.

It would have been funny if it wasn't so dreadful and serious. By the time the Vorlon finished playing the last of the scene with Entil'Zha being taken away by Shadows to be tested, every single one of them was on their knees praying. Ranger, Babylon 5 security, or station personnel they were all one in that moment. Not one of them understood how something like that could be possible or how such a man could exist. They heard that creature say he was supposed to have the Greatest Soul ever to exist. They didn't know what that entailed specifically, but it was all they needed to hear. It also explained why he feels compelled to do the things for others that he does.

Time stood still on Minbar, Babylon 5, and at the Gathering above Corianas 6 as everyone waited to see what would happen next. None of them wanted to consider what the captain or Delenn were going through. Whatever it was, they understood that they weren't supposed to know. The thing that was really ticking off most of the Fleet was that they could not record the events. No matter what they tried, nothing but static or a blank screen with no sound. Then they realized, it was not meant to be and they should stop trying. Then they started sending out ship wide announcements that something was happening and for everyone to check their monitors. The Vorlons seemed to be moving really fast through Anla'Shok headquarters. Someone was on guard to constantly monitor their movements. No one knew what this would be but thought it was the final revelation of events.

Back in the waiting room Stephen sat but he was joined by G'Kar, Garibaldi, Marcus, Susan, Talia, Fannol and the big shocker to Rangers, Z'al and those in the War Room, Selene. It was obvious they were sort of plucked from where ever they were doing whatever they were doing it by the way they popped into the room. One thing was obvious, they were all praying. At some point they kind of looked up and around at each other then realized they were about to sit in the hot seat so they stood up. Stephen moved to stand next to them. They realized he wasn't running this show now and would endure everything they did.

Tafali looked at Vir and neither knew what was going on.

"Why is she with them?"

"I don't know. She was on the bridge with Delenn and Marcus. I have no clue what she was doing out on a White Star."

"Me either. But something tells me they aren't assembled to be the welcome home committee."

"Tafali, you have a way of putting things some times."

"Thanks."

That's when things got more strange than usual or just down right weird. A gateway opened in the middle of the room out of thin air and it seemed to lead to some path that no one was really sure what that was all about. A voice from nowhere spoke,

"Why are you here?"

As one they all seemed to know and speak the answer,

"To serve."

"Whom do you serve?"

"The truth."

"Then enter, take up your challenge and meet your fate."

The Three were absolutely fit to be tied. Durhan looked like he would have a heart attack when he saw Susan pop into that room. He just knew there was more to come. And, he realized that was part of whatever they all agreed to do. He could not refuse it but he could dislike seeing her potentially harmed and that was as far as he was able to go in defiance of the Universe. Turval was wondering if they were going to loose all of them. Kailenn was praying and Rathenn was solemn and quiet. The Nine looked to him and were convinced he knew MUCH about the workings and mysteries of the Universe.

When the Vorlons ended the projection they realized that would be it for the day and left to resume their quiet vigils for all 10 of them now. No one at Tuzanor knew who the extra one was though they all realized she was Centauri when they saw her uniform. But if she was called into some challenge or test she must have something to do with what was going on.

Whatever those were to be tested on, whatever fate they were to meet, everyone knew they would not be permitted to see. They'd also probably never find out why. Every Z'al ship in the Fleet started hailing Vir's ship. Crew all raced to the bridge. They wanted Vir or Tafali to give them answers. They couldn't because they had no idea why she was with them.

Once they were alone Tafali turned to Vir and he shrugged.

"Don't ask. I have no idea. Ari'ahn didn't warn me about this. Then again, he didn't warn me about anything that's happened in the last week."

He thought that over for a few minutes.

"What do you know about Selene?"

Not liking where this was going thinking Tafali suspected her of something,

"Why?"

"Don't get defensive. It's a simple question. What do you know about her? I'm asking for a reason."

"The same things you know about her. Plus, she's faithful, hard working and loyal. I repeat, why?"

"You don't think it odd she was out on one of their White Stars when she's assigned to the station? If she wanted to head into the final battle, which I would not blame her one bit, why not on one of our ships?"

"You'll have to ask her. If she ever comes back."

Tafali was silent for a long time putting pieces of a puzzle together, knowing he didn't have anything close to the big picture. Vir can see him straining the brain and breaks in,

"Are you wondering how this is related to Z'al? If it has anything to do with Ari'ahn or whatever comes next for us?"

"No."

That was a surprise.

"Ok, what are you thinking?"

"That Selene being selected to go where ever with the rest of them doesn't have anything to do with Z'al. Or it might but not really."

Totally confused at where he's going with this.

"You lost me. What does it have to do with?"

"I think its about Selene. About who she is."

"Are you saying she's on some level with what we're all starting to understand about Delenn and Sheridan?" That's a bit much for Vir.

"No. I'm saying that the reason she's with the rest of them is because of who she is. And, I think she found Z'al—or we found her—because of who she is. Or at least because she has a connection with the rest of them."

"I'm too tired for your theories. Who is she?"

"Haven't a clue."

"Then why... never mind."

Tafali had absolutely no proof and little understanding. He did have a feeling and he always bet on them.

The final round came on early the 3rd day. The others had been gone 24 hours without comment or a word. The gateway opened up and they each stumbled through and sort of fell in various places on the floor along the room. Everyone was leaning on one another or holding on to the other for physical support. And every one of them looked horrible. While the others were glad to see most of their leaders appear, they did not like the way they looked. None of them spoke, none of them moved. Since the screen didn't phase out on them, all those viewing assumed their was more to come. About 20 minutes later, Delenn slammed onto floor with a loud bang. It looked like she was thrown through the ceiling. Marcus and Selene were closest and crawled to her immediately. Stephen stopped them and everyone turned to his voice,

"Do not touch her."

Selene didn't really know about him but she figured he knew a lot about a lot of things. And, until he decided to join them through the gateway, he was the judge or arbitrator of this trial so she listened and stopped. Then Stephen said a word that no one understood and no one knew the meaning of and the three Light beings appeared and sort of gathered real close around Delenn for quite awhile. Then they disappeared. Everyone looked to Stephen and he nodded to Marcus and Selene so they approached. They were still crawling. She looked a lot better. Tired but better than before. Tuzanor did not know what to make of ANY of this and certainly not Delenn. Marcus put her head in his lap and whispered in her ear. Selene held her hand. After a few minutes she was able to sit up and leaned on him. Talia was leaning on Stephen but not so much that she didn't see Fannol and Susan. They were literally all over each other. Holding on and holding tight. [I guess I should have known something like this would cause the two of them to start up again.] She just rolled her eyes and looked around the room.

Stephen pulled himself together and Talia assumed he had to get back to work so she slid closer to G'Kar figuring he'd make a nice sturdy prop. And, he did. Stephen walked back to the place he stood earlier in this——whatever it was——and seemed to wait. Lorien showed up again and stood silently to the side of the room. But, everybody saw him. Finally Captain Sheridan reappeared the same way he disappeared with that thing standing in front of him as before. Stephen turned to it,

"What say you?"

"He is the One."

"What say you?"

"Darkness cannot defeat him. I cannot defeat him. We bow to his demand."

"All?"

"Yes. All Darkness, all First Ones except the Light."

Stephen turned to Sheridan, who looked just as bad as the others but was determined to stand, and asked,

"Any final words for the defeated?"

"Yeah. Get the hell out of my galaxy."

That caused everyone including Lorien and Delenn to laugh. Stephen pulled himself together then spoke,

"So let it be."

And with those words, Lorien and the thing vanished from the room. Everyone got the outside fantastic view as all those First Ones with their strange ships, Shadows and everything else Dark disappeared at once. Then all 10 of them vanished from the room as well. When Marcus, Selene and Delenn reappeared on the bridge of White Star 2, Lennier was waiting. He rushed to her, while pinning Marcus AND Selene in a 'we are definitely going to talk about this later' look then escorted her off to a healer. If Marcus didn't know better he would have sworn Lennier huffed. Then he turned to Selene when she had to ask,

"How come I'm in trouble? I didn't do anything."

"He's like that. Guilty by association. You're on his permanent watch list from now on."

Then they both laughed. He signaled White Star 3 to ask what to do. Susan didn't have a clue and said to wait for the captain. Then she signaled White Star Prime and said they troops needed some words and instructions.

"It has been quite long enough captain. The masses are over due for an oration."

"Give me a minute. I just got back from hell." They both laughed and she said she'd signal the Fleet to stand by.

5 minutes later White Star Prime opened a channel across the Fleet.

"This is Captain Sheridan. For those of you who do not know, the war has ended and the Darkness has gone quietly into that good night. Never to return. We chose to embrace Light in the face of Darkness. And Light will continue to abide with us. We chose to drive the Shadows from our lives. But this time the war was about much more than Shadows. The First Ones have left as well. We are on our own now. This is the dawn of the Third Age. We stand on the praecipe of great change. A wise man once said, all great change and progress is born in pain. He was right. But there were some who chose to stand in the place of all of us to endure that pain. To ensure that this change would come. They did. Now we must look to our future. Today, we planted the seeds of hope and the promise of what was purchased for all of us. All fields need tending, all crops need cultivating. Let us always be mindful of that so that one day we can enjoy our just reward.

Assume formation, let's go home."

The captain barely finished speaking when 3 of the healers approached him and practically dragged him from the command chair. They completely ignored his assurances of being fine and took no notice of his protests. That was pretty much the case for all those on White Stars Prime, 2, 3, 9, and 14. Healers and mind healers let the captain finish speaking then swooped in and snatched up everyone.

All Tuzanor looked to one another and back at the screen. They looked to the Vorlons who turned and marched out of the room but none of them moved. What did one do after something like that? How were they supposed to prepare and what exactly were they preparing for. They wondered if this was the future he was sent to bring them. Then it seemed as if each of them firmly dismissed that idea. There was no way this could be the end. Turval said he was pretty sure the Vorlon Fleet would be leaving soon and that communications would be re-established shortly. The others agreed. But first, they had some words for that crowd. Rathenn turned to the Nine,

"Perhaps an instruction on the necessity of silence is in order. Especially when it comes to the personal and very private moments the Universe made public to our eyes. None of them would choose to remain in the company of those who do not know how to hold their tongue."

Not wanting to loose any of them they all agreed and spoke as one. When the Three moved to the front of the room to address the crowd, the Nine followed and stood right next to them on the platform. Their silent message was loud and clear. When Rathenn finished explaining why they were brought a message that no one else in the Federation witnessed, he quickly reminded them that silence was their burden making careful reference to Sheridan's words. "Consider yourselves blessed to have witnessed these things. Know that it was for a specific purpose. You have each been given sufficient warning and preparation for whatever is to come from those on the War Council. Do not fail them. Be diligent in your efforts but be silent in your knowledge or you will drive them all from our presence and they will not return. And, do not EVER forget who paid our debts."

The Three turned and let the Grey Council pass before them. The Nine marched out of that auditorium and back to their temporary sanctum. After all they learned and all they witnessed, they have a much better understanding of Rathenn's warning. They also realize some major changes are coming to Minbar and all of them will be by the hand of John Sheridan. Each of them was wondering how they would protect that group. One thing was certain. They were going to talk!

The War Room was silent. They'd spent the last three days shut away from the others trying to offer strength as best they could. Trying to not worry about the captain or the others. Now they see the First Ones and Shadows leave. They hear the captain say the War is over. They're just looking at each other and someone finally says,

"Its over? Its really over?"

One of the Vorlons decides to speak for the first time,

"No." Not a good thing to say to this crowd. Vorlons are apparently used to people looking at them blankly, strangely or in confusion because it continued,

"Isil'Zha is beginning."

"The future is beginning?"

"Yes."

"What does that mean?"

"Sheridan."

"Captain Sheridan is beginning?"

"Yes."

Zack's starting to catch on to this and takes a stab at it.

"You're saying he has a lot of work to do. That there is much more for him?"

"Yes." Feeling like he's on a roll, Zack jumps back in,

"He's going to do something specific? Something bigger than kicking all the Shadows, Darkness and First Ones out of the galaxy?"

"Yes." Mai'lenn is now feeling confident enough to address the Vorlon,

"He is going to build something. Make something. Be more of the future."

"Yes."

"What?"

Before a Vorlon can answer Lorien shows up in the room. Guess he's making a stop on his way out of town.

"He is the Universe's Chosen. Jyenalazor spoke the truth. He is the One. John Sheridan possess the Greatest Soul ever to exist. He is the architect of the greatest change you will ever know. He will also be the architect of something beyond your imagination. What he creates, what he builds will endure 1,000 years from now. But it will not be easy. His life will not be easy. The Universe wanted you all and a few others to see certain things. The Fleet only saw all that happened once the Gathering was called. The other races do not understand and it is not for them to know. At least not yet. The Universe allowed it to be so that they would have a report for their governments that the war was over. So that they would know who purchased their freedom and why.

You all have seen private things. Things those you viewed do not know you witnessed. Your silence is required. It was done for your understanding. So that you all would know who they are. What they willingly did for others. You all must be their helpmates. You must be their guardians and their watchmen. That is your purpose and your calling. Those 10 have no idea how their lives are about to change. They thought nothing of doing what needed to be done. They will continue to do so. But each of them is special. Each of them is blessed in a special way. And each of them will face challenges and hardships you cannot imagine. Take up your charge and answer this calling that the Universe has put before you. You will not be disappointed."

"Now, I must be going. I believe Captain Sheridan said something about getting the hell out of his galaxy. I'd hate to still be here when he returns."

The others are nervous at those words and at the revelation of his true identity. He just laughed. "Personally, I thought it was rather funny." Then he disappeared in an overly flamboyant burst of light.

Once Lorien left, they all looked to the Vorlons but they seemed to be packing up and heading out so they looked to each other. No one can really figure out how Vorlons seem to get on and off the station quickly without anyone noticing because 5 minutes later C&C contacted Corwin to say that all the Vorlon ships orbiting the station were taking off through the jump gate. The ships that came from the planet left too. Zack and Mai'lenn look at each other hoping station residents and particularly the ambassadors don't start anymore trouble now that they aren't defended. Zack put Alpha, Zeta and Delta squads on standby just incase anyone from Earth Force decided to drop by.

Mai'lenn put station Rangers to work. Turns out, it wasn't necessary.

When Corwin finally notified Zack and Mai'lenn that the Fleet returned, their people where ready to give them the first class heros welcome. And a nice formal greeting. That pretty much surprised all of them, but they got over it quickly. Word was sent by some of the League worlds that the war was over and the Shadows were driven from their lives. That's really all that went out on the open channel. That didn't stop people on the station from wanting to celebrate. Garibaldi immediately picked up on something odd and Marcus did too. Station Rangers AND Zack's special teams were not smiling or acting like the others. They seemed more intense and more quiet. Members of the War Council had to make an appearance at the celebration in the Zocolo though all of them really just wanted to go to bed.