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.

5. Candle and the Flame

Once the ship exited the jump gate word went out to all the watchers and not just Mai'lenn and Zack. Still, Corwin wanted visual confirmation that both Selene and Marcus were on board and unharmed. He did not wait for them to hail him.

"Babylon Control to unknown ship." He figured putting it like that would get their attention. He was right.

"Cole to C&C. Its just us. Can we still land in the private bay? You gave us the codes last time."

Relieved to hear the we in his statement, "You are clear to dock. Welcome home."

That surprised them both so Selene scooted over next to Marcus and squished her face in front of the screen with his, "Thanks, its good to be home."

That was all Corwin needed and he sent out an update confirming they were both on board and appeared in good health.

"Cole to Garibaldi" That was definitely a surprise to everyone in the War Room and they didn't even bother to pretend not to listen. Delenn was out of her seat and headed to the door. The only thing she was waiting on was to hear every word the two of them said.

"Garibaldi, I take it you're back."

"Yeah. Can you and the captain meet us in Kosh's bay?"

"Sure. What's up?"

"You gotta see it to believe it. Hurry up."

Because his tone was light and he seemed in a good mood they did not worry. Unfortunately, that was all Delenn needed to hear and she was out the door. All this time she worried for his safety and return. Now that he was back, she planned to welcome him and inspect him throughly to insure he was well to her own satisfaction. Then she planned an extensive lecture of her own. He was not going anywhere for quite a long while as far as she was concerned!

Michael looked at the captain who just shrugged, "I guess she assumed that included her. My guess, she really didn't care. Let's go."

That seemed to be some tacit invitation for the rest of them 'cause they all jumped up and were hot on their heels. When Michael turned around to shoo them away all he got was a few 'yeah rights' and a 'get out of the way' from G'Kar. Knowing they were beat on this, the captain and Michael just ran to catch up with the rest of them. Security was not alarmed. Mai'lenn informed them that Cole and Selene had just returned and that if anyone (code word for Entil'Zha or G'Kar) should race from the room toward the private bay it was only to greet them. And it was a good thing she gave that warning or they would not have moved from in front of the door fast enough not to be plowed over by Delenn. Less than 10 seconds later everyone else joined the chase. It was not a comforting sight to those not in the know around Babylon 5 to see Delenn leading the rest of the War Council racing through the station with various contingents of guards straining to catch up.

When Marcus stepped to the opened door of the ship and looked out to see Lennier and the entire War Council standing there with all their guards he looked at Garibaldi wondering what his excuse was considering what happened when G'Kar returned.

"We were meeting. They couldn't be stopped." Then he nodded his head discretely in Delenn's direction. She was straining all her discipline trying to stand back and not rush him. Marcus nodded and turned to her with a smile but did not leave the ship.

"Could you all stand back please. None of you were expected." That confused them all. "Captain, you and Michael were." And with that, he turns his head and nods to someone behind him.

A few rather loud gasps from Susan, Delenn, Talia, Stephen and Michael assure the others that something major is occurring. Then they look to the captain and see he is struggling to maintain his composure. This gives the others some clue as to who the woman is on Selene's arm and the man Marcus is assisting down the steps. Captain Sheridan runs forward and embraces the man. When he speaks everyone else is assured of what they are seeing.

"Dad."

"Its good to see you again, son. Mighty nice set up you have here. Strange but nice." As he glances around to the rather large welcoming party and what he can tell is an enormous assortment of guards.

Once Selene and Mrs. Sheridan have cleared the ship he moves from his father while tugging on his sleeve to follow along,

"Mom."

"Oh, Johnny. I missed you." Then she pulls back and looks him over before pinching his cheek and giving it a kiss. "My baby."

That caused quite a few snickers from the spectators who didn't bother pretending they weren't completely engrossed in this heartwarming reunion.

"Mom! Not in front of everybody." He's practically whining as he blushes. And that just makes them all laugh.

Ambassador Sheridan takes this time to look the crowd over, "Susan! Its good to see you again. Glad to know you're helping to keep my boy in line." All she does is laugh and smile while giving him a hug 'cause she knows she'll pay for anything she says later.

During their reunion, Marcus and Delenn had their own and everyone noticed that she began looking him over in the same manner Mrs. Sheridan was inspecting the captain. They didn't speak but their embrace said it all. They all learned a little something about G'Kar too. Apparently, he's a soft touch. They caught the interaction between he and Selene but were wise to make no comment. Marcus disengaged himself from Delenn while he still had an ounce of credibility with the other Rangers cause he had no hopes of fooling anyone on the Council.

Selene turned to the captain,

"Sir, we should move this reunion to your quarters. There are some things we need to discuss. Michael, Entil'Zha and Talia need to be there too."

That raised a few eyebrows. Not the taking his parents to his quarters part but the make up over who needed to come along and the seriousness of her tone. Neither Marcus nor Selene took notice of it as they made eye contact with the elder Sheridans. The captain took his mother's arm and started to walk away when a conversation behind him that made him stop and shake his head.

Ambassador Sheridan turned to Delenn and smiled warmly while holding out his arm, "I have wanted to meet you for quite some time. It is an honor. News broadcasts don't do you justice my dear."

Delenn blushed profusely and took his arm while smiling brightly. The captain turned around and raised his eye,

"Dad, are you flirting?"

"Not at all son. You're holding onto my girl. I'm just returning the favor." They both laughed and moved to exit the bay.

The one thing that both Sheridans took notice of immediately was the guards around their son. Because Mrs. Sheridan was walking with him, she was enclosed as well. Ambassador Sheridan also saw the guards take up position around Delenn and the others fall in step with certain other people. The amazing thing they both noticed and worked hard to conceal was the fact that there were Minbari Warriors guarding their son. They knew the way the Warrior Caste felt about him. They knew for over a decade Minbari referred to him as StarKiller. Yes, they learned quite a bit about their son and his place among the Minbari recently. On some level it shocked them to the point of disbelief. The specific facts that is. But both of them were well aware that their son was special. They just never realized how much!

Once they were settled in the captain's quarters, Delenn went back to immediately fussing over Marcus while he blushed and tried to get her to stop. Mrs. Sheridan busied herself with inspecting her son further to see if he was eating properly and getting enough rest.

"I don't believe you are. You work too hard sweetie. Vitamins, you haven't been taking your vitamins." Then she turned to Delenn conspiratorially, sensing that she had a similar relationship with Marcus and decided to rat him out.

"He should take vitamins as well. Always rushing into dangerous situations and hardly taking time for a proper meal. Don't worry, I put a stop to that as soon as I realized what was going on and he behaved."

The two of them nodded at one another seriously like they had come to some great understanding about the ways of Marcus Cole. Michael turned his head to keep from laughing out loud. The captain was so embarrassed he couldn't speak and Marcus was trying to melt into his chair. Talia watched all this while she worked through her own internal struggle not to laugh in the captain's face.

Still ignoring the others Mrs. Sheridan pointed out Selene, "But this one is a little treasure. Never has to be forced into eating well balanced meals. She understands the necessity proper nutrition." They smiled warmly at each other. Marcus glared at her and was about to speak when Delenn narrowed her eyes at him so he sat back quietly. Clearing her throat Selene got things started off,

"Much happened during the time we were away. There are some things that Ambassador and Mrs. Sheridan will share with the captain if they choose to do so."

Michael interrupted,

"You're gonna have to give us more than that."

Marcus answered, "She is referring to where we encountered the Sheridans and any of the circumstances leading to their joining us for the rest of mission and then back here to the station. That's their story to tell and no one else's business."

He was dead serious and the look on Selene's face matched his. It screamed don't even think about trying. Message sent and received but everyone knew it was something serious. When the captain involuntarily pulled his mother closer and looked to his father, Ambassador Sheridan knew he had to say something to bring the tension down in the room,

"Son, we're here and we're fine. That's all that matters. Let me just say, these two young people are very good at what they do and I'd make sure to keep them on the team permanently if I were you." Then he laughed and looked to his wife. She nodded and smiled at everyone. Delenn's smile had competition because they all eased up and leaned back in their seats. Selene didn't give them anytime to ask anything,

"Michael, Marcus and I decided that after the Sheridans are allowed some time to reacquaint themselves with each other---and the Ambassador is very interested in the League as well as the Babylon 5 Treaty for Mutual Defense" She turned to the captain once she started talking politics, "I promised him he could take a look at it once he got settled. He wants to make sure you cut yourself a sweet deal." They all laughed and she continued, "Anyway, Marcus and I decided that they should then leave the station to take up permanent residence on Minbar."

Everyone's looking around wondering when the other shoe was going to drop and just what the hell these two weren't saying. It was obvious that the 4 of them had some mighty big secrets. Marcus didn't give anyone a chance to get started.

"Delenn, if you could make arrangements for them to settle at Tuzanor among the Anla'Shok as well as hasten the process for them to both be granted Minbari citizenship as quickly as possible it would be a great help."

Then he waited while all the lights went on in Delenn's head. She knew what he was saying and what he was leaving out for the benefit of the others. Quickly reacting so that no one was alarmed,

"Of course. It would be my honor. And it would most definitely be the honor of the Anla'Shok to host you both."

Selene jumped back in. They planned their approach. Basically they wanted to keep hitting them hard and throwing them off balance with curve balls and blind siding them with disconnected information so they'd just be silent and take it all in. She turned to Talia,

"We both feel that you would be the best person to personally over-see their transition to Minbar and assist them with making certain adjustments to their new home and lifestyle."

The hit and run team was in total effect because Marcus turned to Michael,

"Is there any reason we can't assign them to the quarters next door since Talia moved out? Selene and I would prefer not to have them in the Ambassadorial wing. If next door is a problem, then I'd still like them somewhere in Blue Sector with the rest of us. That's your call to make from a security perspective."

Selene jumped back in,

"We also felt that Stephen should accompany them both up to White Star Prime after you all have a few minutes to yourselves." She stopped, exchanged looks with Marcus and they both nodded so she looked the captain straight in the eye and continued,

"You can spend time with them after they return to the station." The message was clear, no one but Stephen and the healers were allowed.

Michael was hip to their hit and run technique after a few minutes. His mind was working over time but he was absolutely certain both his parents where held prisoner somewhere and that they were tortured in some way. He could also see that whatever they learned about Earth Gov meant that no matter how the war played out, neither one of those two would ever be returning there or anywhere near Earth Alliance territories. He gave them both credit for trying to get their points across while protecting the Sheridans' privacy. White Star 3 would definitely be proud. But, he also gets that there is a continued threat by Earth Gov or some contingent within it that would make them request Minbari citizenship for both of them and request that it be expedited. That was a major concern for him and he knew he would be traveling to Minbar with Talia when the time came.

With that, Selene and Marcus stood. Michael and Talia with them, "We will be going now. I will alert Stephen to be prepared to meet you all in the shuttle bay when you are ready." They all moved to the door and Delenn rose to follow them when Mrs. Sheridan stopped her,

"And just where do you think you are going young lady? We haven't had a moment to chat. Sit down dear." Delenn was taken completely off guard and it showed in her misstep and hesitation. When she returned to her seat without a word the others rushed out the door.

Marcus was feeling a great deal of satisfaction at Delenn having met her match. He knew that the next time she tried something all he'd have to do was call in Mrs. Sheridan and she'd snap back into line. Once in the hall and clear from the door they shared a laugh before Michael got serious,

"What kind of security are we talking?" Marcus didn't even hesitate,

"They need to be monitored 24 hours a day while they're on this station." Selene brought the point home,

"Once word gets out that they are here, either an extraction team or a hit squad won't be too far behind."

"In Valen's name." He barely whispered that while trying to process that. Then he just looked for them to say more. Marcus nor Selene had anything more to say.

Talia got the deal. She could not keep the captain organized, stress free and clear of other distractions if he was constantly concerned for an immediate threat against his parents. She would take them to Minbar and she would make sure they were happy. She also thought that Rathenn and the ambassador might have a few things in common. Valen help the Sheridans once Kailenn learns they're moving in!

When the Sheridans headed up to White Star Prime, Delenn knew that John was very concerned about them. He was a very observant and smart man. The emotions of seeing his parents again after all this time were overwhelming while they were in his quarters and he was trying to get over the embarrassment his mother's fussing over him caused. But Delenn knew that as soon as he had a few moments to think about it he would put all the pieces together.

"This is why Selene said that we shouldn't move against Earth until they returned? I love my parents and I am thankful and grateful they are here but I'm wondering if there's more to it than that. She couldn't have thought I would put my own happiness and family above all the lives of billions of other people."

Choosing her words carefully, "I think we all know the kind of man you are. Selene included."

Then he closed his eyes and sat back on the couch letting everything else that wasn't said settle,

"Its more than them having been in prison. Something happened to them physically to make Selene basically order that they be examined on my ship and away from the station. Not to mention actually ordering me to stay away." Then he was quiet for a few minutes and Delenn did not disturb him as he worked through what he knew and did not know,

"What kind of arrangements are you going to make on Minbar and how long will it take for them to have citizenship?"

"Initially, they will live at headquarters. It will be a good adjustment into life on Minbar and with the human/Minbari mixture of Anla'Shok it won't seem so foreign to them. Though Talia will take care of that. They will have protection among the Rangers and a chance to rest. Depending on the upcoming war with Earth and how it turns out, they can move into a private residence if they choose. But the training camp allows them to be around so many people and they could find something to do to keep them busy, they may prefer that. After Kailenn is finished with them, that is."

They both laughed at that last sentence knowing it was absolutely true.

"What about citizenship? How does that work? I get the feeling from those two that it needs to be immediate and that they're thinking its my parents' first line of legal defense." He dropped his head into his hands at that point. Reality and guilt setting in. He feared retaliation against them once he declared independence. His father supported that and told him to do what had to be done but this was more than he bargained for.

"They will have full citizenship with all of the rights and protections that entails just as I do. Anyone from another government---disturbing a Minbari citizen would be dealt with swiftly and severely. There is something else you have failed to considered."

"What?" That makes him look up confused

"I believe their last name is Sheridan. They are YOUR parents. With or without official citizenship, most Minbari will consider them their personal property and treasure. They would not allow Earth Force or Earth Gov to remove your parents from Minbar anymore than they would allow them to touch you. Honestly, Selene and Marcus are right. An open attack or capture of you is the one thing that WOULD cause the Federation to Declare war on Earth and there would be no surrender this time. Disturbing your parents would be---ill advised."

He's not really comfortable with some of the things she says but the over-all message is that his parents would be safe so he accepts it and smiles. He also notices that she failed to include herself as a cause for war to be declared. He is absolutely certain Earth should keep their sights and their hands off of Delenn or it would mean their destruction.

"Fine. Just as long as they are safe and protected. They all thought I wouldn't catch on. That I wouldn't notice they want to get them off the station as soon as possible. They know something. They both made some enemies of their own and it has something to do with whatever Selene and Marcus have been investigating over the past 3 months. Part of it is about me but the other part... Dad always shared his work with mom. She has always been his closest and most trusted advisor. All of the treaties my dad negotiated on behalf of Earth Alliance in the past have mom's finger prints all over them. The two of them are thick as thieves. And she's always got her ears open to learn something. No, whatever they found out, they put their heads together and started their own information gathering system." He was serious when he said it but then when he sits back and thinks about his parents hunched over some plans or secret files and he laughs softly.

"Is that not the purpose of marriage? To celebrate, endure, and conquer all things together. They seem happy together and they seem like they have mastered a formula for a successful marriage." She said no more but looked at him with her sage of wisdom expression while smiling slightly.

He got the point and held out his hand, beckoning her to come closer. Once he had her tucked in next to him on the sofa just where he wanted her,

"Yes. You are absolutely correct. They compliment each other, balance each other out. Much like we do. Much like we will continue to do so. And now that Marcus is home and you have confirmed that with your own eyes, will you relax and stop worrying about him?"

"I am overjoyed they returned unharmed. Still, I will speak with him. I will first gather information from your mother on the exact nature of his behavior before she was forced to intervene. He does not always see danger for himself in certain situations and I do not like that. Then I will confirm with Stephen that they are both well. I agree with her suggestion of vitamins. I will speak to Stephen about that. But, I will not rest until I have ascertained the exact progress he and Selene have made in their relationship. It was unclear earlier with all the excitement. But, they have had months! They should have finally admitted their feelings for one another. They could not possibly have continued to hide them from each other during all that time. No, I will be certain of that first. Then I will decide on the best course of action."

Sheridan said not one word as Delenn stood up and began to pace while indulging in her self appointed calling. The safety, happiness and protection of Marcus Cole. Now that Marcus was back, he was pretty sure he wouldn't be out of her sight for long and that he had completed his last away mission for some time, if not ever. Since the captain did not admonish her often, Delenn felt comfortable working out the particulars of one of her plans in his presence more so than Lennier's. That was simply his means of gathering specific information on what she was up to. It also allowed him to create some sort of time table and be on hand when it was time to intervene. What HE didn't know is that she did the exact same thing with him.

Selene, Marcus and Michael accompanied Stephen and the Sheridans up to White Star Prime. Marcus took a few minutes to quietly explain to Stephen that they would both need to be seen by a mind healer before they were released. He also updated them on the general situation of getting them to Minbar as quickly as possible. Stephen surprised Marcus by saying that he would travel with them and that he had some things to discuss with the healer at Tuzanor. That brought Marcus up short because Stephen hadn't even examined them yet. Then he remembered who he was dealing with and just nodded. Then he checked in with White Star 2 for some specific information and updates. While they were being examined, Michael met with Selene and Marcus,

"I haven't had time to work the whole thing out and I don't know what you two know---cause I know you guys know a lot---but I can tell you what my gut says. They need to be gone within the next two days."

Both of them just stared at him. They couldn't disagree but Selene had to point out something,

"The captain hasn't seen them in over two years. Two days..."

"Yeah, that's why this moving party is going to be huge. Obviously, you two have had extensive contact with them and they seem comfortable with you both and by that hit and run briefing you two put on back there I know you've already started trying to work their security from here to Minbar & afterwards." Then he stopped and smirked at Marcus, "Now that you're eating balanced meals in between dangerous missions."

"Shut up Michael or I'll set her loose on you."

"Fine. Anyway, John will come too, its better when he's happy or my job's hell. I'm assuming you think Talia will be staying for some time. I heard Stephen say he was coming and that was enough for me to think they needed to leave soon. I'm coming because I don't trust either of them out of my sight for very long and its going to be major news once word gets out that not only is he back but that his parents are moving there permanently. Stephen may be difficult on this trip. He gets that way some times and has been more cranky than usual while you guys were gone. He was a little too high profile during the Gathering and there have been more than a few visitors coming for all three of them. More people are starting to figure out who he is. I'm sure they got reports on Minbar on the specifics."

"Britanni is head of security there, in case you didn't know. You're gonna have to make her aware of the situation. You two are going to have to spell out the specifics of any threats she's got to protect them against. Marcus, you know you can't keep certain secrets from her and expect her to do her job properly. She headed Jeff's security and I worked with her during the transition and throughout the entire time he was there. She's good and she's discrete but she needs to know what or whom she's dealing with."

Marcus agreed and nodded, "Yeah, I understand and agree. We'll speak to her when we get there. In the meantime, I'll assign some station Rangers to both of them. And they'll have temporary custody until she can put her people in place. We're catching her off guard with this but we'll do our best to make sure she has the facts and enough information to work with."

"That's all I ask. Know that Delenn's probably going to start packing her bags as soon as she finds out. I doubt they'll have enough time to complete the paper work for citizenship in the amount of time we're giving them. She'll light the fire and help set the tone with the Anla'Shok. Plus, I don't think Mrs. Sheridan is finished with her inspection and evaluation of the future Mrs. Sheridan." They all snickered at the memory of Delenn being 'detained' by Mrs. Sheridan. Marcus thought for a moment then said,

"Alright, with all these extras, I'll prepare White Star 2. You better get your war cruisers ready and I definitely think this is the time to travel with the defense shield in place. There are going to be too many people on that ship who need to stay protected. Talia should travel on White Star Prime with the Sheridans to help give them more time to get acquainted. The captain, obviously will be there with his parents. Stephen too. I'm guessing you but you know, the more people on board the less room for all your extra security guards. Though they can travel with us. So, Delenn, Selene, myself and any security you want to tag along. Though something tells me Lennier's coming too. I've got to meet with Mai'lenn to see who is available to go."

"Yeah, that sounds fine. This is one huge security nightmare. Maybe we should all take off in the morning."

He was joking but when Selene and Marcus look at each other, nod and turn to him as one and say, "Yes" Michael Garibaldi knows its trouble and they haven't shared ½ of it.

"Fine, one or both of you head down and brief John and Delenn. Let him know I'm working things out and keeping an eye on his folks. I'll be down to speak with him later."

Selene just shrugged and stood up. Fine. I should pack their things from our ship and have them moved so they can take them. Do I need to give them to you to inspect? Or someone else?"

"I'll do it. Let me know when you head to the ship and I'll go with you. That would be easiest."

"Sounds like a plan." Then she looks to Marcus as she stands up. "Come on Running Feather, let's go talk to the chiefs."

"After you, Little Moccasin." And they head off for the shuttle bay.

"Running Feather? Little Moccasin? What the hell were they doing all these months?" Then Garibaldi heads to the captain's office so he can start working things out with Tathann knowing its going to be nothing but drama. And Susan's going to kill him.

The captain and Delenn were surprised to have company so soon and thought his parents were back already. When Selene and Marcus walked in he didn't relax and just waited for what was written all over their faces. Marcus picked up on that and tried to reassure him,

"Its not what you think captain. They're still---visiting with Stephen. We came to update you both on our meeting with Michael. He's still up there working with Tathann out of your office."

"Ok, what's going on?"

"Selene, Michael and I agree that your parents should leave for Minbar in the morning."

"But they just got here. I've only seen them for a few minutes." He knew if it had to be, it had to be but it was hard for him. He did not know what they endured because of him and he hadn't seen them enough to find out if they are going to be alright. Selene jumped in,

"We realize that sir. That is why Michael is making arrangements for you to travel with them as well. That way you can be there to help them settle in. Obviously, you can't stay as long as Talia, but a week or two should tide you three over til the next visit."

Then she smiled and nodded for him to agree with her. He did. At Delenn's concerned expression Marcus turns to her,

"I am going to contact Rathenn when we finish here and advise him of our arrival and certain other things so that he can begin to quietly put them in place. White Star 2 will make the trip as well for several reasons. First, we figured you'd want to go. Second, you can personally oversee whatever you want the Anla'Shok to do for and on behalf of Ambassador and Mrs. Sheridan. They are your future in laws. Third, it will allow you to personally see that their citizenship applications are expedited. Fourth, I want to put your ship in dry dock before we even think of going after Earth. I want it completely overhauled and I want the defense shield installed."

He was so firm on that last point that Delenn just nodded her compliance without a word. The captain knew he just watched their roles reverse. No matter how many times he saw or heard it, it still amazed him.

"As you can imagine captain, with you, Stephen, and Delenn the security is already enormous. Stephen was revealed during the Gathering. I doubt anyone at Tuzanor doubts who he is. Add to that Talia plus your parents. It's a lot. I am going to put together temporary security for your folks but most of them will travel on White Star 2 along with Stephen's extra guards. I'm already making adjustments for that because I just know Michael's going to order all of them come along. Once Selene and I work things out to our satisfaction with the head of their security there, I'll dismiss the guards we're bringing for your parents and turn things over to them."

Marcus stopped to let them both take in what he just said before moving on to the other crucial point.

"I'm also ordering two war cruisers escort White Star 2. That's not up for discussion. Delenn, I'm making some major changes to your security as well. I checked, you haven't been home since the Gathering. That will draw even more attention to you now. The two of you traveling anywhere together is a security nightmare. I don't think either of you truly understands your place. Add that your parents are moving there permanently and we're practically begging half the Federation to rush to Tuzanor for the best show they've seen in 1,000 years."

Then he stopped and narrowed his eyes as he held Delenn in his glaze before speaking. Delenn could tell he was extremely displeased and very serious about whatever he was going to say. She didn't like that too much at all.

"Oh, and there will be no more secret trips like the ones you and Lennier made the last time you were on Minbar. Yes, you misdirected and misrepresented around me quite nicely in order to leave this station, but I still knew where you were and what you were up to. There won't be anymore of that in the future Delenn. That was absolutely your last chance to sneak off anywhere. Should you require any---personal time on this trip, I will be on hand to assist."

Sheridan peeked over at Delenn out of the corner of his eye when Marcus laid into her. He saw her blanch at being caught and that she couldn't do much except blush and lower her head slightly when scolded. She'd tell him what she was doing later, now that Marcus exposed her, there wasn't any reason to hide it. He also knew it wasn't something in line with the type of secrets she used to keep the moment her head shot up and she looked at him and shook her head. He nodded, more amused at Marcus taking her to task. Selene looked to the captain,

"Captain Sheridan, as I stated earlier, how and why your parents ended up with Marcus and I is their story to tell. Do not question them or allow them to feel compelled to share that information with you. They are making a major life change with this move to a new planet to live among people who little over a decade ago were at war against them. They have language, customs, culture, history, and religion to understand and get used to. They need rest and they do not need pressure in the least."

Then she sat back in her chair and fixed her gaze between the two of them,

"If neither of you have questions for us regarding the things we just briefed you on, we will get out of your way. We have to check in with our own people on the station and we still need to hammer out the particulars of your parents' security arraignments. Sir, Michael will meet with you later this evening to go over specific details of your security with you. And, I believe Talia will be stopping by to oversee finalizing your travel preparations. We're going to put your parents next door in Talia's old quarters so they'll be close by. Entil'Zha, I suspect you should give Lennier notice that you are traveling to Minbar in the morning because he will want to come. After the Gathering, he does not completely trust Marcus or me with your care even though that wasn't our fault. But do not inform him of the circus caravan we seem to be running and instruct him that he is to tell no one of your plans. People know the Sheridans are on the station by now, we need them to continue to think that until well after we've gotten them off the station. No one must find out where they are going, for how long, or speculate on the reasons why. Finally, Marcus and I need to go buy your parents a bed and sneak in onto the ship."

With that she turned to him and he nodded before responding,

"I still don't know how we'll sneak it into the building but we'll think of something during the trip." Then he stood, "Come on Lucy."

"After you, Ethel."

Then they walked out without another word.

Delenn and the captain were a bit stunned. They had each grown accustomed to Marcus laying down the law and putting his foot down with Delenn at times but today was very different. Add to that his inclusion of Selene in creating his parents' security detail on Minbar. Neither missed the way that was worded. Then they had to consider that they both had the care of his parents for however long the four of them were together. He didn't expect to be dressed down by Selene but she was pretty good at giving orders when it came to insulating his parents and protecting their privacy so he didn't mind. That thing at the end was just weird. Sheridan knew who Lucy and Ethel were and considering what they were planning to do he thought the old reference fit. He just didn't know they knew. Then he wondered how close those two were. He wouldn't say anything because he wasn't sure if Delenn started considering that. Then he remembered how quick she is and should never have doubted that once she turned to him,

"They will both be traveling with us to Minbar. That is a very good sign. Yes, and did you notice how they seem to complement each other's styles? They will have many joint projects and your parents' security arrangements should take considerable time to work through." She's smiling and sitting back on the couch thinking then looks at the captain.

"John, I did not have to do anything. This situation fell into my lap. It would be senseless not to take advantage of it." Now more to herself,

"Yes, 2 weeks in Tuzanor could be very romantic. There are many beautiful sights and I do not believe Selene has ever been to Minbar. This will be perfect. Marcus can show her around. When he is finished fussing over me. I suspect he intends a long lecture on his displeasure with certain things but I will distract him from that. He is just a bit intense right now with all these things he must work out. Once he is at Tuzanor, he will be in a much better mood."

Delenn is damn near giddy as she rises and gives him a kiss before heading toward the door, "I must prepare for the trip. Lennier will be suspicious but he will not pry too much as long as he perceives there's no danger. Everything is working out as it should be!" Then she turned and left the room.

Marcus decided that he would select the Sheridan's security while on board Babylon 5 from station Rangers. But to cut down on those knowing about the mass exodus, he'd use crew from White Star 2. Mai'lenn was suspicious but he didn't care, there was really nothing he could do about it. Two guards each and some in front of their door during the night. Let them figure out everyone was leaving the next morning. He and Selene thought about that and just couldn't figure out how they could get everybody off the station without people finding out. The luggage is a dead give away.

"Your Rangers will see right through it but it's the other people on the station we have to worry about not them. Why don't we grab everyone's bags tonight and haul them away in some laundry cart or something to the shuttle bay and then secure them on the various ships? That way tomorrow it will just seem like the captain is taking his parents up to his ship. Delenn and Lennier, well, I don't know how we're going to work that."

"Since they won't have any bags with them--thanks to your "laundry cart plan"--- they can just walk over. You and I will shuttle up from our ship with our things directly to White Star 2 so no one will really know what's happening until they see the ships and all 4 war cruisers take off. Its more than a circus caravan but its needed."

Later, Selene was spread out across his couch after having met Michael to inspect and pack the Sheridans' things then hand them of to him to hustle up to White Star Prime while she snuck the overnight bag over to their quarters. Then she ran around checking in with Z'al, got reports and updates, tried explaining that she was still on her mission and would not be staying long so Truladi was still in charge, and debated whether or not to check in with Vir and Tafali. She opted against that last one. She was quite comfortable with her feet in Marcus' lap when he ruined all of that,

"Hey, I was comfortable!"

"Sorry but its time I made the call." His face soured up like a lemon.

"Oh. Well its got to be done. You can't do it from here, its not secure."

"I know, I'm going up to the ship."

"And what am I supposed to do?"

"Come with me and after we finish we get to have dinner up there since you like the food so much."

That made her smile because he was including her and not just about the food. He knew that.

"Alright, let's go."

Rathenn was more than surprised to get a secured communication from White Star 2. He thought it might be Mai'lenn checking in but didn't know why she'd be contacting him instead of Durhan. They had still gotten no reports and no word on Cole in months. To see his face pop on the screen made him sit back and stare.

"Sorry to disturb you but there are some developments you need to be aware of. Your complete discretion in all things we discuss is required for more reasons than you might think. Reasons I cannot get into." Then he waited for Rathenn to agree.

"Tomorrow, the captain, Entil'Zha, Dr. Franklin, Talia Winters, Michael Garibaldi, Lennier, Selene and I will be arriving at Tuzanor. How you are able to keep all of that a secret until we enter the building is your problem. Mine is working with Michael getting everyone there safely. The reason we are coming is that we are escorting Captain Sheridan's parents. They are traveling with us in secret and they will be moving to Tuzanor permanently. That needs to stay quiet and no one else is to know that until Entil'Zha officially tells you that tomorrow. The reason I am telling you is that they will need to live there at the training camp for some time and under the protection of the Anla'Shok for the rest of their lives. Entil'Zha will oversee expediting Minbari citizenship for them as soon as she arrives. That is also something you are not aware of. I mention it only so that you might have some full understanding of the situation. She will discuss matters with you in secret and in detail."

"The Sheridans and everyone else will need quarters. I will need to meet with Brittani on arrival for some time to work out the particulars of Ambassador and Mrs. Sheridans' security needs. They are specific and particular if you understand my meaning.

We will all most like be there for about two weeks. I do not know how long Dr. Franklin will remain but he will need to meet with Talenn as soon as possible to discuss any medical issues the captain's parents may have. Talia will remain for several weeks after we leave to help them with the transition and adjustment to their new life. Advise the others that Captain Sheridan has not seen or heard from his parents in over two years and he has spent less than two hours with them at this point. The time he is at Tuzanor he needs to devote to them. They are his number one priority. Their protection, care and privacy is the Anla'Shok's number one priority. He cannot be distracted constantly worried that his parents are in danger while he is preparing to do some things that need to be done. Do you have any questions?"

Rathenn's mind was reeling from the first sentence out of Cole's mouth. He did not know the captain's parents were still on Earth. He never gave it much thought before but once Marcus began talking he realized they must have been in serious jeopardy all this time and the fact that they were to become Minbari citizens meant there was some imminent threat to them by Earth Alliance. That made perfect sense. Dr. Franklin coming meant that they must have suffered some physical harm at the hands of their government. That did not sit well with him. Yes, he understood everything and had no questions. When he looked off to the side of the screen he saw the young lady from the Gathering that none of them knew. Knowing they would have to prepare those who witnessed all to be silent he still wanted to gather information.

"I understand the basics and will start putting those who need to know about Captain Sheridan and Delenn's arrival on notice. We will see that everyone has a place to sleep. Who is Selene?" Rathenn thought he knew but wanted confirmation. Marcus turned around and she looked up smiled and waved.

"She is a member of the War Council and we will be working together with Brittani." That was all he was going to say and Rathenn got that.

"I understand. What time should we expect you?"

"We should arrive about 10:00. No welcoming party. And no crowds. We're going to be a huge group of over 30 people. Much more than that. Just you, and the Sechs."

"That is not a problem. I look forward to seeing you all tomorrow. And do not worry about Ambassador and Mrs. Sheridan, we will take care of them."

"I'm sure you will. But I am still going to worry."

With that he nodded then ended the transmission. When he turned around to Selene he closed his eyes and shook his head,

"This is going to be a mess."

"We'll get through it. It can't possibly be as bad as you think."

"I'm going to hold you to that."

"Yeah, whatever. I thought I heard something about dinner?" That made him laugh and they headed out for the dining room.

Durhan was a little disappointed that Susan would not be coming but understood she had to run the station With the captain away. And after what he witnessed on her last visit he was absolutely certain Fannol would be right by her side and nowhere near Tuzanor until she came. He almost rolled his eyes at that thought.

Turval sat quietly the entire time Rathenn was speaking to Cole. The Three of them are very sneaking in that respect. But Turval knew there was a serious situation unfolding. Rathenn said nothing and just looked up at the others. Finally,

"Well, what do you each think?"

Turval spoke first, "I think we now know part of what Cole and Selene were doing the last months and we have some idea where they were for at least some of the time. I think Captain Sheridan's parents are in grave danger. Nothing is ever easy or cut and dried With that group. This was no simple rescue mission. And the fact that he is contacting us now, when they have just arrived on the station, means that no one knew Cole and Selene would find them or even bring them back. You heard him, the captain has spent less than 2 hours with them and yet they are preparing to get them off the station as soon as they can and arrive here tomorrow. And the number of people coming, something very serious happened. But, I don't think any of the others know. Mr. Garibaldi is not coordinating the security for captain's parents? Whatever has happened, only Cole and Selene know. And whatever they know is not good."

The other two are silently listening to Turval and have to admit they agree with him 100%. Durhan gave his opinion,

"I think now would be a good time to start preparing those additional crews and ships to be sent to Babylon 5. Delenn has never stayed here with us. I think we should put his parents in the suite Susan uses. It is spacious enough to accommodate them comfortably for some time. Captain Sheridan's suite is permanent. It is not near his parents but he has special security needs and Mr. Garibaldi likes the location. He will stay near the captain in the same place he did last time. Dr. Franklin needs to be near them. So does Talia. Delenn can have the suite near the darelines. I do not think she will be displeased. Lennier is a bit high strung when it comes to her so we should put him as close to her as possible."

That last sentence made everyone laugh. It eased the tension in the room greatly. Rathenn responded,

"Yes, that will be fine. 7 of the 10 from the Gathering will be here at one time. That is bound to cause many heads to turn. Especially recognition of Dr. Franklin. Some will definitely suspect. We'll leave Kailenn to Talia since they seem to understand each other. Talia can explain the delicate situation. Once she learns that she will have daily access to his parents forever, she might just calm herself and not initiate a frontal assault. Then again, its Kailenn so who knows."

It did not take Mai'lenn and Zack long to figure out the basics of what was going on. There was too much calculated movement. Besides, the two of them had a better system of watchers than the others. They were able to constantly monitor all the shuttle and docking bays, Blue and Green sector and they still had a tail on Garibaldi that he hadn't picked up yet. They were absolutely certain the group was up to something. There was too much suspicious movement and once they were able to see luggage being taken from underneath sheets in a laundry cart they knew that all of them were planning on taking off soon. They just weren't sure where and needed some kind of inside information. When Cole told Mai'lenn that she was still in charge she knew he would be leaving again but could not ask where. Ivanova did not brief Corwin that he would be in charge so they assumed she was to stay. Thankfully, Mr. Garibaldi had to inform his second in command. The arrival of the Sheridans was only known to the guards in the private bay and the Council but Zack saw Stephen get into a shuttle with them over the secure cams. He recognized David Sheridan. The fact that he was taking them up to White Star Prime meant they were going for medical attention and not a tour of the ship. Mai'lenn and Zack put the pieces together and decided that they were all going to Tuzanor soon. They also agreed that Ambassador and Mrs. Sheridan would most likely remain there permanently. That was agreeable to both of them. Neither of them were the least bit upset by their attempts at subterfuge since it was obvious that they were trying to keep it a secret from the public and not Rangers. There was a threat to both of them and security was need to know. They were fine with that as well. They, however, needed to know. And they did.

The Sheridans, Delenn, Lennier Selene, and Marcus traveled to the training camp with their various security. Garibaldi trusted Tathann and Marcus to look out for the captain but he had Stephen to deal with as well and didn't want to take any chances so he would travel with him and Talia. Garibaldi is always suspicious when Stephen does not complain about his guards or increases in their security measures. Stephen has said nothing. Even when he learned that ALL his guards were coming. Michael really wanted to believe that it was because he was traveling With his patients and was in mature doctor mode instead of cranky Soulwalker who hates having body guards mode but he wasn't buying it. He watched him closely out of the corner of his eye. Talia watched Garibaldi watching Stephen and that made her go on alert. She decided she'd be working over time allowing all her senses to pick up whatever might be coming. Then she sent up a quick prayer asking that nothing come.

Selene and the elder Sheridans had never been to Minbar. They had the same reaction. They were just as awed and when they approached the compound and Selene unknowingly uttered Susan's thoughts the first time she saw it, "A crystal palace." Then she turned to Marcus with that wide open smile and in the state of happiness he loves to see her in and he couldn't help laughing at her excitement.

"Is there much to see? Is it all like this?"

"Yes. And there is more than you can possibly see on this visit."

"We can try now and make up the rest next time!"

She was as eager as a child and all the others watched her interaction With Marcus carefully. He could not hide his affection or the depth of his feeling when he looked at her. They all saw it. But the thing that warmed Delenn's heart and almost made her burst from excitement was that Selene's expression betrayed the same feelings when she looked at him and they held each other's gaze for several moments. Delenn looked to the captain and smiled triumphantly. Then Selene and Marcus seemed to realize they were staring and broke away from each other nervously looking nowhere and everywhere but at each other or anyone else.

The others all made eye contact and smiled. Mrs. Sheridan seemed to sense a fellow matchmaker in Delenn and their eyes met. Yes, she had noticed the same thing during their mission but did not interfere because she did not know the extent or particulars of the situation. Seeing that Delenn was more than pleased by the possibilities and just as in favor of their union as she was, a silent conspiracy was formed and their joint expressions screamed 'plan'. David and John Sheridan looked at each other knowing exactly how that was going to turn out and shook their heads. Lennier was silent and gave nothing away but now knew that he would have to watch the captain's mother as well from now on. It would not due for Delenn to have a partner in her future schemes. He counted himself blessed that Ambassador Sheridan seemed a quiet sensible man who would not encourage his son in some of the death trap plans he came up With. He hoped that the ambassador would serve as a voice reason With common sense advice. Then he considered that the captain didn't just pop up out of a cabbage patch fully grown and was raised by both of them. So, he simply hoped there wouldn't be too much damage done in the future.

It was a HUGE entourage and it really could have been a mess if it weren't for the fact that those coordinating it were well trained. Once they reached the compound the Sheridans were in awe, Delenn was surprised and even Lennier displayed some shock as Selene and Marcus shifted out of puppy love mode and straight into full business. They organized, ordered, and moved them all out and into the building in a swift motion then had them stand off to the side. Michael was bringing in the second group and Selene admonished them not to bottle neck. She got a copy of the plans from Garibaldi and memorized them on the trip. She felt pretty confident that she knew where everything was and everyone was supposed to be. She took full control of the elder Sheridans and their guards while Marcus attended to Delenn. Tathann had to do a double take. He couldn't believe this was the same one expressing such Delight and child like enthusiasm minutes ago. Her back was straight, her eyes were pealed and she looked ready to strike at any danger in less than a heart beat. Tathann decided that he liked her.

The Three waited patiently as they watched this scene play out. Marcus was not kidding when he spoke of the large group. They were well more than 30. Durhan counted more than 30 guards among that group. No one spoke until everyone was assembled. Then Rathenn stepped forward and welcomed everyone. David and Beverly Sheridan were very observant. They had to be. They'd spent decades in diplomatic circles and service. It did not take 10 seconds to see the deference payed to both Delenn and their son. Others did not speak but when they came into contact With Captain Sheridan they bowed and moved out of his way. This was an eye opener and they both were determined not to make any reaction or let their awareness of it show. They knew their son. That had to be difficult and he was probably getting used to it but perhaps not completely. They would not make him feel uncomfortable or that he had to explain.

The Three tried to watch Selene as much as possible. Yes, she would be there for 2 weeks but that didn't mean they couldn't look now. They gathered plenty of information. She was not Anla'Shok but she moved like one. She saw everything and everyone. And she was serious about the captain's parents. That was enough for them. Everyone who witnessed the Vorlons' projections was able to figure out she was Centauri after watching Talia and Fannol's mission. That was a shock for all. But the Three got the distinct impression that the Council was keeping that fact a secret. When they thought about it, they understood. Her demeanor and actions spoke nothing of any Centauri they had ever seen and that puzzled them. They saw her uniform, its style similar to Minbari dress though curiously all black, and noted the broach along with its inscription. This peaked their interest and they had to know more. They'd corner her later.

Selene and Marcus still had their secret project. Once everyone was shown to their rooms to rest and freshen up, Marcus and Selene slipped into their suite to talk with them.

"Mrs. Sheridan, Ambassador. You noticed the Minbari beds on White Star Prime."

Always polite and gracious Mrs. Sheridan nodded and concealed her real thoughts with a simple, "Yes."

"This is a secret and it is against ALL protocol and standards of every kind. Marcus and I bought a bed for you two on Babylon 5 and snuck it onto White Star 2. We've figured out a way to sneak it into the building but we're going to have to remove this bed and taking it apart isn't going to be easy. Or quiet."

With those words the Sheridans turned to them and broke out in disbelieving laughter. Marcus called Mrs. Sheridan on her response.

"We knew you would prefer a human bed. In time you might adjust to the Minbari style but for now, why not indulge. We just have to figure out how to keep people from finding out."

"Why? I understand Minbari sleep at a 45 degree angle but why would they care if we do?" Marcus isn't sure how to put it and scrunches up his face. There are many problems with his answer.

"Aside from the fact that they can die from sleeping flat on their back, its bad luck and absolutely the only form of superstition that exists in Minbari culture, its taboo." Then he has a noticeable hesitation so David Sheridan prompted him,

"Go on Marcus. I think we're getting close to the real reason."

"Um that was a real reason. But I suppose if you were my parents it wouldn't matter much but you aren't. You're his parents and Minbari can be....intensely protective of their treasures. He is more than a treasure. He and Delenn are both religious figures not just among the Minbari but among the Anla'Shok as well. There is no difference between our beliefs. There are humans back on Babylon 5 who are not Anla'Shok who believe just as we do. Talia is one, she is Religious Caste as well. That said, Valen prophesied his coming 1,000 years ago. And when he called the Nine together and gave them their charge he revealed his prophecy. He asked if they would follow him into Fire, Storm, Darkness and Death. And when the Nine said yes, he told them to do it in testimony to the One who was to follow. It is not spoken. He will say it to you plainly if he chooses but the absolute positive and undeniable truth is your son died at Z'ha'dum when he detonated those thermonuclear weapons. But, he was always Chosen to fulfill the Universe's plan. So the Universe attended to him and returned him to us so that he could to what must be done. To bring it full circle, the Anla'Shok, the Religious & Worker Caste, those humans like Michael Garibaldi and others you didn't get a chance to meet at the station, the Warriors guarding your son, Entil'Zha and the station, Talia and myself we would. We will follow him into Fire, Storm, Darkness and Death. Because we see who he is and we know who sent him. We understand what he is charged to do.

The Minbar have been waiting a millennium and did not know when the One would arrive or who it would be. That's a long time to wait. To find out it was John Sheridan was more than a bit of a surprise and I'm sure you both can see the irony in that. But that meant nothing to them. He was the leader of the Army of Light long before he went to Z'ha'dum and your son has performed more miracles in the last year---literal miracles---than anyone could imagine. They aren't going to let anything happen to his parents. That includes whatever they fear might happen to you from sleeping flat on your back. The first time they come into your room and see the bed, they'll have a fit."

"You mean after they revive from passing out on the floor." Then laughed.

"Selene, if you aren't going to be helpful, be quiet." Then he turned to the Sheridans, "Basically what she said. But someone will try to remove the bed and replace it with something proper so that you aren't harmed. I'll talk to Rathenn."

Mrs. Sheridan is no longer interested in the bed. She heard what Marcus said about her little boy and wants more understanding.

"Selene, you are not Anla'Shok nor are you Minbari. When you see my son, whom do you see?"

She did not have to hesitate in her response.

"I see the Chosen One. I see the one blessed to possess the Greatest Soul ever to exist. I see the one touched by the hand of the creator and maintainer of all things. I see the righteous one. I see the one who did what no one in the history of all sentient life has ever imagined possible or had the strength of purpose to attempt. I see the one who will not only build the future, I see the one who is the future. I see the one anointed by the Universe to carry out its plan. I see the one who faithfully walks the path laid before him. I see the one who has stood in the gap for all and paid their ransom our freedom. I see Light and I see truth. I see the Holy One. I see Isil'Zha."

Marcus is so moved by her words of conviction that he reached over unconsciously and clasped her hand. Selene had worked herself into tears as she confessed her faith without shame or the least bit of self-consciousness. She didn't say it but everybody knew it. She would follow John Sheridan where ever he led and that included Fire, Storm, Darkness and Death. Mrs. Sheridan also shed tears as she held her husband's hand. When they returned to the station and had dinner in her son's quarters she looked at him carefully. He was off duty and out of uniform. Dressed in Minbari robes and she had to admit it suited him. When they spoke that evening of his work and life on Babylon 5 she saw something in him---something that resonated from him and she knew he was changed. When he offered up prayer over the meal and uttered a blessing in Valen's name. She knew there were many significant changes in her son. But she had no idea of the magnitude. The width and breath of his reach to others. The Vorlon showed them things that he did. Things that were said about him. But this was the first time Selene and Marcus ever sat and talked about their son like this with either of them. And here they were to live among the Anla'Shok. Among an Order who pledge to live and die for the One. Entil'Zha. Their future daughter in law. And among a people who know her little boy as the Chosen One. Isil'Zha. They were to be citizens and they were to have lifetime protection by the Minbari against Earth and its madness. It was all finally catching up to her.

By this time Turval really isn't interested in gathering anymore information and looks to Rathenn pointedly. Durhan turns off the monitor and disconnects the feed. They won't be watching the Sheridans anymore. And, they have heard all they need to from Selene. They knew she was chosen for something and special when they saw her enter that gateway with the others. No, when they saw her selected without her knowledge and brought to that room with the others. She willingly stood in the gap. That was enough. It didn't stop them from being a little nosey and wanting to get some more facts. But what they got was more than enough. No one said anything until Rathenn looked up,

"I better prepare to spread the word after Marcus speaks to me so they leave the Sheridans' bed alone. I know the Anla'Shok. And I know the Workers who would find it first. Selene was right, after they passed out they'd find a way to get rid of it or "fix it"."

Talia was busy but she enjoyed it. She was assured that Marcus and Selene were with the Sheridans so this gave her time to boss everyone around as to what was required for the captain. Lennier was doing the same thing on Delenn's behalf and just as effectively. Garibaldi was checking in with Brittani and let her know Marcus and Selene would be stopping by when they finished with the Sheridans. He was also keeping a close eye on Stephen---just to be sure. Stephen was meeting With Talenn in private. And Talia was checking on her order for an entire wardrobe for the Sheridans. When Selene informed her that they brought nothing from where they found them and that she and Marcus got some things for them along the way, Talia went to work on the station. She purchased personal items for them and had them sent to their room in a travel bag. After confirming with Marcus that he'd spoken to Rathenn, she gave him a call and said that both Sheridans would need clothes and he should see to it there because it would take too long to have them fitted and sewn on the station. Then she pretty much demanded that he do it immediately, gave him their measurements, and said goodbye. Once Talia was absolutely certain that the captain was micro managed to the fullest extent possible, she sent him to the garden. When he complained that he wanted to go see his parents she explained that was her job at the moment as they had things to discuss and she needed to prepare them. He really didn't feel like arguing with her because he knew he wouldn't win so he shrugged and walked off. He felt sorry for his parents because he didn't think even his mom could get around Talia Winters.

Kailenn was fit to be tied. Seven of them here at once! She did not know what to do. Talia had given her no warning that Dr. Franklin was coming so she was not prepared to lay her trap the first day. Then she considered the captain's parents and that he was meeting With Talenn so she figured it was about them. She made one or two adjustments but she was determined that the Soulwalker not slip by her. They would be there for 2 weeks. Not as long as usual but she would work something out. She also needed to grab Marcus Cole. He hadn't spent anytime with her since he was there recovering after Entil'Zha's ceremony. She felt him long overdue. Finally, the one in black. Kailenn recognized her from the challenge and she was determined to find out about that one and get her into a class. The one thing that made her smile was learning that the Sheridans were living there permanently. That meant she could take her time with both of them and slow down from the accelerated program she had to design once everyone from Babylon 5 started coming for 3 weeks. She would have them.

Brittani could not believe some of the things Cole and Selene were outlining as basic parts to the Sheridans' security needs but she sat there and took in everything silently. She, along with everyone else, was very curious about Selene. They saw the Gathering so they knew she was one of those blessed among them. She also heard she now sat on the War Council and everyone knows that she and Cole just returned from some secret mission. From her sources, it was common opinion that the Council did not know the specifics of where they were going or the nature of their mission. From their arrival and this discussion, she was absolutely certain that no one--even Cole and Selene--knew they would meet up with the Sheridans. Though Brittani knew that really meant stumbled upon and rescued. Fine. As far as she was concerned, guarding Isil'Zha's parents would be an honor. They may have wished to keep it secret but all Tuzanor know he is engaged to Entil'Zha since his return from Z'ha'dum. That means Ambassador and Mrs. Sheridan are to be her parents as well. Yes, that is double the reason to take great care in their protection.

It took a considerable amount of time for them to work through everything. Selene was adamant that a panic alarm of some kind be installed in their suite and that each of them be given one to wear on their person. This made Brittani smile. She had done the same thing with Entil'Zha when he first arrived and took the position as Anla'Shok Na. It seems that Garibaldi had the same thoughts and concerns. She was able to place a small device inside his Ranger pin and all he need do was press it and his guards would know he was in trouble. After some discussion, Brittani said she could have two fashioned into pendants within a few hours and they could wear them around their necks. Marcus was also firm that no one else should be assigned to the quarters near their suite outside of the War Council when they came to visit and that some of their off duty guards rotate sleeping in one of those suites instead. Once Brittani considered the particulars and delicateness of the situation, she agreed. They needed to limit as much traffic in that area as possible. None of the three were the least bit enthused by the prospect of Captain Sheridan taking his parents on a tour anywhere off the grounds. The arrival of White Stars Prime, 2, and 4 War Cruisers at the orbital docking ring raised quite a bit of attention. The fact that the two War Cruisers arriving in obvious escort of White Star 2 were Warrior Caste--Moon Shield and Fire Wing caused everyone to stop and stare in shock and disbelief. People had already started speculating and passing the word around, Captain Sheridan and Entil'Zha were at Tuzanor. If they only knew who else was in the party they'd be lining up on the sidewalk!

Once they finished up with Brittani and she assured them that she would keep them updated on their status, they headed out to meet with the guards and make them aware of certain things. Brittani wasn't the least bit offended that they wanted security reports on the Sheridans because she understood their situation. The captain would want to know about his parents and they would need to be aware of any movement in Tuzanor while they began to move against Earth. She used to keep Garibaldi updated on Sinclair just to ease his mind. They had to make sure that the guards fully understood that they would be protecting both their safety and their privacy. People would want to learn things about them or try to find a way to get to their son through them. That could not be allowed. They also had to understand that they are relatively unfamiliar with the ways of the Anla'Shok so they must not be too intense. When Marcus got blank stares and a few furrowed brows at his comment he exhaled deeply at their extreme sense of "Denile" and gave them a brief lecture and examples of being 'too Ranger'. They got it.

Selene suggested that the Sheridans and future Sheridan needed to spend the evening together and dine en suite. She then informed everyone else that they should find something to do somewhere else. She confirmed with Lennier that Delenn had spoken to the right people and their citizenship applications were being processed as they spoke. That confused Selene,

"But they haven't filed out any applications yet."

"They are Captain Sheridan's parents. That was all that was needed on the form."

"Oh."

The captain would see his sunset at Valen's temple any and every day he was at Tuzanor if he could help it. He went everyday and everyone seemed to sense that he needed that time alone so no one asked questions or invited themselves along. Garibaldi expected it, he tried to prepare for it, he wasn't ready for the extra little twist. Marcus and Michael had their nightmare come true a few days later. This day, John Sheridan felt like hosting a field trip. Unfortunately for those in charge of security, the captain insisted that Delenn would be coming with him that day so that they could share the sunset together. Garibaldi and Marcus rolled their eyes at the sap then walked away to try to work something out. As his parents were preoccupied and still not ready to brave the throngs of Minbari they stayed at the headquarters and continue their sightseeing. When they informed their son that they were both graciously invited on tour of the grounds by one of the instructors and found her so delightfully charming they couldn't refuse he tried to hide his suspicion when he asked which one. Mrs. Sheridan said her name was Kailenn and everyone simply nodded and found somewhere else to look and something else to do as quickly as possible. Trap laid and sprung. .

If Michael thought the crowd at Valen's temple was large the last time they visited, he was forced to redefine the word. Thankfully, Minbari are so polite and reserved. Humans would not have restrained themselves. One thing Michael noticed was that the captain no longer seemed to notice them nor did he really seem uncomfortable. Marcus said that might have a little something to do with getting to take a late afternoon stroll with his fiancé and they both laughed. It was true. They were the picture of propriety but everyone could see love was in the air as they exited the temple and walked along the path to the stream together. Most people had learned the captain's routine. That did not sit well with security but so far there were no problems. They knew he came alone, spent several hours inside the temple and then would walk through the grounds and sit under "his" tree relaxing, meditating or thinking for a few more hours then leave. Those in the know in Tuzanor set their watch by his movements and know when to come and sneak a peek. This day was a very special treat for everyone who came to take a gander at him. Entil'Zha was with him and they both looked happy! It was really the first time they had ever been seen together and the general consensus was that they looked right together.

Kailenn just had too many people to deal with. She had to reprioritize and it was interfering with all her plans. It seemed like a dream come true to have them all there at once but she had to devote time to Entil'Zha, the captain needed her attention, his parents were adjusting and Dr. Franklin was at the top of her most wanted list so he came first. That meant that two people who needed cornering were likely to slip by her. She would not swear it but she thought Cole and Selene might actually be avoiding her for some reason. None of the guards said anything but they had to wonder if Mr. Garibaldi intends to get into trouble every time he gets around Kailenn or if he just can't help himself. She overheard one smart comment and he was neck deep in cleansing. She brought out the big guns and enlisted reinforcements just to keep him in line.

Talia and Lennier were both on hand and helpful while the Sheridans settled into their new home. Turval seemed to think they took to it easily considering the circumstances. But things started to change by the end of the first week. Then Lennier started noticing some changes in Talia's schedule and demeanor. Less bossy and more quiet. Delenn was meditating more in the privacy of her suite. Stephen was close but found a quiet spot all to himself to sit in regularly for hours. Lennier did not like what he was starting to see so he kept careful watch and looked in on all of them. Selene was reported to be taking long walks around the grounds at night then would pray til sun up in the grove near the fountain. Mr. Garibaldi started visiting the Temple of Valen twice a day for longer periods of time. Tathann said nothing but he made note of it. Marcus was meditating in the garden for hours at night. The last sign of trouble was when the captain took to the chapel at the training camp. With that assortment of guards it was obvious to everyone that he was spending all night in there. They did not know what Entil'Zha was doing but they assumed something similar because Lennier became agitated once he saw that something was affecting all of them.

The Three had Mai'lenn's early reports to rely on. They knew what they were seeing and they sent out the word to all of them, including Kailenn, that they were not to interfere with any of them, get in their way or comment on their actions. The way it was said, everyone got the feeling this was definitely something serious and something that they had an understanding of. The Sheridans noticed this as well and said nothing. They were learning the ways of if not Minbari then at least Anla'Shok in this short time. They would watch and wait. When Rathenn went to them and explained that they did not know specifically what was coming but at times in the past all of them are moved by something and this is how they prepare. They accepted that and observed like everyone else. It was a truly amazing sight for those at the training camp. Even after having sat through the Vorlons' week long video lecture series, they'd never seen this kind of reaction in anyone. Somehow word got out among the Anla'Shok that Entil'Zha was slipping away from the camp at night, under heavy guard and Lennier's watchful eye, to Valen's home. They said that she spent hours in the garden there and meditated alone.

Mai'lenn knew the signs. White Star 3's 4 person detail never fooled anyone. When Zack reported that G'Kar was spending hours in the chapel in Grey 17 again just as he did before the Gathering they stepped up their actions. Zack was getting that feeling that something was going to happen. No one had seen Fannol on board the station in a week. Ivanova came, attended to her duties, then left with her guards. Corwin said that she was distressed and distracted so he tried to shield her from the others by keeping her buried in paperwork in the captain's office. Mai'lenn decided it was time to act and that they must do two things. First, she contacted Durhan and requested that he make ready and send as many White Stars, Rangers and War Cruisers to the station that were immediately available and that he do it quietly. When he did not object or question her they both had understanding that all of them were behaving the same way. Then she divided her station Rangers into two groups. Zack went up to one of the War Cruisers and asked for the Moon Shields to come back to security to work directly with his reserve special teams. Then he brought the Narns out of Grey 17 again and informed them of their new assignment. Corwin changed all of the station's operation codes to ones he created and rearrange duty shifts so that HIS people from HIS special teams were in charge of every shift and were the only ones who knew what was going on. Zack went over everything With Murphy 15 times just so they were both sure they had the drill right. Mai'lenn and Zack knew it was coming soon and they just hoped Durhan got the ships there in time.

C&C notified Zack and Mai'lenn that White Stars 3 and 14 had just jumped from orbit. Security confirmed that G'Kar shuttled up to White Star 3 10 minutes before it left. They called their people together and had them all shuttle up to the War Cruiser they designated months ago. Not 5 minutes later 15 White Stars and 10 War Cruisers jumped into orbit. They were briefed and given their instructions as to what to do and to only make reports to Lt. Corwin, Sgt. Murphy and Shaal Mayal.

The Anla'Shok as well as the Three were getting very nervous. They did not know how long something like this would go on or what exactly it was. They stayed back but it was obviously something specific. Everyone turned to Lennier. He could not advise them on this. Entil'Zha was doing the same as everyone else, they now had reports of her constant all night prayer vigils at Valen's home. Selene was visibly agitated and distressed. Marcus would not move from his spot in the garden for hours. They all now knew of Mr. Garibaldi's where abouts and actions and then learned that Talia was sequestered herself away. And the captain was spending more time in the chapel than he was anywhere else.

At first they were shocked and then relieved when they got word that Fannol, Ivanova and G'Kar enter the building. Surely these three had come to assist the others. But how did they know? Then they assumed Lennier informed them of the situation. But the state they were in clearly showed they were no better than the others and certainly not there to help. They could not pretend they did not see anything when they most definitely saw Ivanova, Fannol and G'Kar racing through the building with their guards trying to keep up. They headed to the garden and sort of stopped and looked around. The other 7 were running from various other directions on and around the grounds and buildings to the same spot, entered the garden and knelt down as one. No one knew what was happening but they knew it was something big to be affecting all of them like this. And all the way from Babylon 5!

That's when the Three and every single person working, training, teaching or visiting the camp got perhaps their biggest surprise to date. Mai'lenn ran into the building with some human dressed in the black Babylon 5 uniform and they were both ordering Rangers and other human security people dressed in the same uniform as he around. Durhan could only point toward the garden when Mai'lenn looked to him and said, "Where!" then moved on with both groups. Tathann saw them coming and was relieved. He guarded the captain but he kept losing him every time something supernatural occurred. Plus, he wasn't sure what was specifically going on with them all so he could not protect them. And seeing how Selene, Cole and Garibaldi were caught up in and just as much a part of everything that was happening, they couldn't seek their counsel. Tathann and the guards from White Stars 3 and 14 were shocked to see the way Zack and Mai'lenn took complete control of the situation. White Star 3 prided itself on being an expert on all things Ivanova with the best security protocols. They found themselves severely upstaged. It was obvious from their calculated and synchronized movements that this group was a joint team with specific protocols of their own. And that's when EVERYBODY got suspicious as to just what they knew and how they knew what to do. They demanded reports, put their people into position and closed off the area.

Tathann was stunned when Zack informed him that he could stay but the rest of the captain's detail had to leave the garden. That told Tathann they were concerned about others seeing some things they should not. Considering what he saw on board White Star Prime before the Gathering, he understood and dismissed his people. Then Zack informed White Stars 3 and 14 they had perimeter duty. No one was to enter the garden but those from Zack and Mai'lenn's team. Zack also memorized the layout of the camp and he knew where the covered walkways were that gave a nice view into the garden. He sent one of his teams and one unit of Mai'lenn's Rangers up to take position and discourage ANYONE from trying to take a look.

It did not take long for the other guards and the residents of the training camp to start noticing many things about these new arrivals. Mai'lenn and Zack were equal partners and obviously both running this show. They wore headsets to communicate with each other instead of the standard communications link like everyone else. Then they noticed that their people wore something similar to that as well. Those from station security wore side arms AND denn'boks. This made Durhan VERY suspicious about just what was going on back at the station when he turned to his brethren. Rangers and station security were working like well a oiled machine and they were ALL serious about what they were doing. Mai'lenn and Zack were 100% in charge and everyone knew it. All those mammoth amount of guards who came with the group at the beginning of the week were put on outer perimeter detail to keep watch for anything happening off the grounds but near enough to be a threat. Those not needed were dismissed to prepare for the next several shifts. Lennier was called down---Zack nor Mai'lenn would leave their post---to give a full report on what he knew. They were both sure others at the camp including the Three had inquired but he told them nothing. Lennier took one look at Mai'lenn and Zack and spilled everything he knew. That was all they needed to hear. They dismissed him and said to remain silent. They really didn't have to tell Lennier that.

It did not take long for something to happen. When Zack turned to Mai'lenn she was nodding long before he even said it,

"We got here just in time."

"Yes, it appears that a few more secrets were almost revealed to those who do not need to know."

The source of their concern, Selene and Marcus. Apparently, since the Gathering she's grown a bit because they were both glowing brightly. Because of the way they set up their guard around those 10 in the garden, no one could see what they were doing anymore. That was exactly the point. Mai'lenn and Zack left the garden for a few minutes so that they could visually confirm the location and status of their people. They walked out just in time. This was just too much. Those at the camp had seen so much on behalf of this miracle working blessed group in the last 5 months and knew they were called for something but they just didn't know how much they could take. Kailenn was concerned for Talia but sensed something different so she took notes and tried to observe whatever she could. She just did not like how that new group came in and took over because no one could see anything in the garden. But to top it off some Vorlons were back. Three. No one knew if these were the same ones that came before. No one knew if they were part of the group who came for Entil'Zha or Captain Sheridan. They guessed but could not decide for sure. They were wrong on all accounts. When they made their way through the building and out towards the garden all those standing around like spectators or trying to sneak peeks from various windows, offices or classrooms---or in the case of the Three, discretely over their security monitor in their private office---were shocked again when the Vorlons walked right up to Zack and Mai'lenn. Then they watched as they clearly exchanged greetings with each other. At this point, Turval jumped up to be absolutely certain the monitor was set to record. Rathenn and Durhan said nothing but looked to him and exhaled when he nodded.

They seemed to engage in some kind of conversation for some time though no one was sure if Zack and Mai'lenn spoke Vorlon. But considering everything else they've seen the two of them doing that afternoon, they left it open as an option. All those viewing these wondrous events are positive that the Vorlons are probably there to visit with the 10 or bring the rest of them a message as they did in the past. They get neither. Zack and Mai'lenn order two of their people down to take their post in the garden and then go off with the Vorlons for about ½ hour. Then they return without incident, complete their visual inspection of their people and head back to the garden as if they chat with Vorlons everyday! To make things worse for those trying to understand what they are watching, the Vorlons do not go to the 10 in the garden. They return to the building and exit the same way they came. Funny, no one saw where they went when they got to the lobby. Now they are all seriously wondering if they came all this way simply to discuss security protocols. One thing became crystal clear to everyone there today, Zack and Mai'lenn obviously know a great deal and they have obviously kept it secret. The shock on the faces of all those guards assigned to those on the Council proves they had no knowledge of their plans or their procedures. And the arrival of the Vorlons shocked them as much as those from the camp but the one thing everyone noticed was that no one from that special team seemed the least bit surprised to see the Vorlons appear. That gave them ALL something to speculate on.

About two hours after the Vorlons left, those in the garden ended their prayer vigil and began to come around so they could discuss what business they needed to get down to. Everyone but Stephen was surprised to see Selene still glowing just as brightly as Marcus. Before G'Kar could ask, Talia shook her head and said this was probably just all purpose glowing indicating that the winds of change were blowing. He nodded, relieved not to have to deal with that Darkness again. And that's when Garibaldi glanced up and around 'cause his cop senses were kicking in. He saw Tathann off to the side but then he looked around and saw something COMPLETELY out of place and not by his orders. Before he jumped up he took in more of what he was seeing. Members of Zack's special teams blocking view of their spot in the garden, some station Rangers with each team in designated areas. He saw enough black at eye level to know those were the rest of Zack's people wearing those headsets. Then he thought he saw side arms and denn'boks and squinted just to be sure. Yep, that's what he saw. He excused himself from the group quietly and took a look around. The guards he brought for the captain and Stephen were working perimeter duty while the others were the only ones inside the garden. Then he saw Zack and Mai'lenn and it was more than obvious they were in charge of EVERYONE including his people. How they got White Star 3 to stand down was beyond him. White Star 14 was starting to learn Kesha's ways pretty well and her replacement was just as tough. So he couldn't understand how everyone bowed to the authority of those two.

"Something is definitely going on around here that I don't know about." And that's when his mind starts turning over things in the past. He remembers that when they returned from the Gathering everyone Ranger, Warrior, B5 residents and personnel were celebrating except station Rangers and Zack's teams. He hadn't given it much thought but he remembers how intense and quiet they were when they met them in the shuttle bay. He noticed that they seemed to be doing a lot of things together. And that Zack and Mai'lenn spend a lot of time together as well. Then he considers the way they were prepared for the second strike team during the Shadow attack and how Zack knew to make certain changes. He's noticed that its not just Zack and Mai'lenn meeting but Corwin is with them too and they all seem to be intense about something. He's not sure what happened but its obvious that everyone here is taking orders from them so they know what is going on. Then he wonders how the hell they knew to come and how long they've been there. He let's that go. They've got bigger problems, he's sure.

"Michael, did you finish your security inspection?" It was said jokingly but they'd stop laughing in a minute.

"Just a quick one but a lot of things are falling into place though I have no idea what it means."

"Huh?"

"Take a quick glance around the garden and tell me what you see?"

No one really knows, they see security. Then they all stop, "What!"

"Oh, you noticed that none of your individual guards are here except Tathann, did you? And you noticed all those black uniforms did you guys? Hmm, those Babylon 5 uniforms belonging to members of Zack's special teams. Except it isn't just Zack's team."

That gets the captain's attention, "What do you mean?"

"There seems to be a joint task force of station Rangers and specially selected security who have taken over COMPLETELY. Tathann is reporting to Mai'lenn and Zack."

Susan's not getting it and Marcus almost has a fit, "What do you mean Mai'lenn? Tell me she is not here?"

"Oh yes, she is here and as I said, she and Zack appear to be 100% in charge of every single one of the people we brought here. They've got White Star 3 doing perimeter duty and they never leave Susan's side. It appears that no one can enter the garden except those on this strange task force. Oh and did I mention Zack's people---who seem to be Mai'lenn's people as well and vice versa are all wearing side arms and denn'boks."

Fannol scrunches up his face, "When did you instruct station security in the use of the denn'bok?"

"I didn't!"

Marcus is not happy about this, "I left her in charge for the time I was gone. I don't see how she can confuse Tuzanor with Babylon 5 and she doesn't have the authority to be here or to order any of our people around."

Michael's nodding 'cause he likes that last point, Delenn's trying to sift through her Rangers being out of place, and the captain is just confused until Stephen speaks up.

"Actually, she does."

"Come again?"

"Mai'lenn and Zack have authority over all Rangers, station personnel and any security assigned in the future when it come to the 10 of us. Corwin too."

Susan just heard something that makes no sense and the look says speak or cease to breathe.

"Michael, you and Marcus said they seemed intense and too quiet when we got back from the Gathering remember?"

"Yeah, I was just thinking about that. And the two of them are always together meeting with Corwin."

"Because they are Watchers." When they look at him like he's hopped up on goof ball, he nods yes and continues,

"I can't go into it because it affects me so I wasn't able to get all the details but while we were at the Gathering, those you see here and some more who I believe are running the station in lock down secure mode, were gathered."

Delenn looks at Talia who shrugs and turns to Stephen, "What do you mean they were gathered?"

"Mai'lenn was told to gather the Anla'Shok. Zack was told to gather the faithful. Then they were given their purpose. Well, after they learned more about us and the----unique things we've done and said or are capable of doing."

"Who would tell them to do this?"

"Michael, the Vorlons came to the two of them with specific messages. All I know is that they gathered in the War Room for 3 days. They know a lot about us. More than we know about us. And, they know what is going to happen to us."

"Excuse me?"

"You guys heard me. They had to be told that if they were going to answer their calling so they would have some kind of understanding of what they were doing. I know they've been watching all of us since the day we returned. Michael, for the last 5 months you've had a security detail of your own and you haven't picked up on it once."

"I don't believe it."

"Believe it. I don't know what Lorien said to them at the end but it was obviously enough to move them into certain types of actions. Susan, why do you think Corwin keeps stealing parts of your job? He knows you're stealing John's in turn. He's helping you both to prepare for the war we know is about to start. Why do you think he kept you buried under paperwork in the captain's office all week? He knew you were having the dreams again as was shielding you from other station personnel or ambassadors so they would not see."

"Wow. I wonder how long they've been here." Then she looks at her watch to see the time and notices they've only been there less than 3 hours so she mentions that.

"They jumped on their own War Cruiser a few minutes after you three left. The only thing they were waiting on was the extra ships."

"Extra ships? What extra ships?"

"Mai'lenn and Zack knew what was happening to you, G'Kar and Fannol. They knew it was happening to us. She ordered more Rangers, White Stars and War Cruisers, gave them instructions and put all the fleet under Corwin's authority. Zack brought in the Narns from Grey 17, Moon Shields and his special teams then put them all under joint authority of Murphy in security and Shaal' Mayal as acting head of station Rangers while Mai'lenn's gone."

"I can't believe any of this. Did you guys know this stuff? Selene and I have been gone we have an excuse."

Delenn shakes her head, "I confess I knew nothing of this at all."

Stephen hesitates for a minute then turns to Susan and Sheridan, "Well, if either of you want to do anything once we return, you're gonna have to go through Corwin. I said they are in lock down mode. He created new codes and passwords months ago for every operation of the station. HIS people are in charge of each shift and know that he's battle ready. Didn't you guys think it was strange that he and Zack were running drills with the pilots all these months? They did what they were supposed to do and to insure they had no problems, they moved their people into position."

"Ok. I'm still having trouble believing this happened right under my nose so I guess it really isn't my station anymore." Then he laughs and moves on. "Anyway, you said that Zack was told to gather the faithful. How'd he know?"

"Zack's got his own gift. And he's been watching and waiting for over a year now. He knew who to call and he did. Don't ask me who they all are, I don't know. That's HIS gift. All I know is the basic information I'm giving you guys so you don't freak out and yell at them for doing exactly what they were supposed to do." He looked at Marcus and Michael with that who nodded.

Talia turned around, "There were Vorlons here. Awhile ago, I felt them."

Fannol agrees, "Yes, there were three of them. I don't know where they are now or why they were here."

"If they wanted to speak to us, they could have interrupted or waited." Susan laughs and the rest join in but Stephen pulls them up short.

"They didn't come for any of us."

"Ok, so who'd they come for and why?"

"They came to check in with Zack and Mai'lenn. The 5 of them went off somewhere together then the Vorlons left and those two got back to work."

"This is really weird." That's the first thing Selene has said all afternoon and everyone looks at her like she's crazy.

"Fine. Its different than our usual kind of weird. How's that?" They agree. Then the captain looks to her and Marcus.

"Obviously you two have a report to make and time is crucial or we wouldn't have been moved here together." Then he thinks for a second,

"Perhaps we should move inside or somewhere more private where we can't be watched or overheard."

"John, I don't think you heard me when I said Zack and Mai'lenn are running this show. No one can see in here except their people and no one is in this garden except them and Tathann."

"Fine. Let's get started. Selene, can you tells us what you learned on your first mission or should we scrap that and move on to what you and Marcus learned this last time?"

Neither of them looks the least bit interested in sharing and they both look depressed. Then she just went for it,

"I read Talia's report on Psi Corp and Syria Planum. I can confirm everything about the labs because that's where I went on my first mission. The reason the Fleet didn't encounter any of the Shadow altered telepaths you all assumed Psi Corp was working on is two fold. First, a large shipment was made to Z'ha'dum before you blew it up captain, so you saved us from them."

Silence and stares but no one looks comforted.

"Black Omega squad wasn't involved so you never would have found them. The rest of those telepaths were under the protection of a private group that was not in the service of the Shadows but just as dirty because they were willing to profit from the war. They were transporting the telepaths in sleeper units to the Thenothk system near Z'ha'dum."

Selene changes direction with some different information,

"I ran into some problems getting off Mars. I....uh...happened to be in a position to....um....acquire some information about Earth Force---don't ask how. Anyway, while I was trying to download it and make copies I got caught. I've never seen so many Psi Cops in my life! I didn't know there where that many human P12's. They are crawling all over Mars like maggots. Everyone gets scanned regardless. They didn't scan me or rather they couldn't scan me and that's how I got caught. But I made it out and then had to fight my way to the jump gate. They were pretty determined and pursued me almost all the way back to the station."

The captain looks at her and laughs, "We won't question how you "acquire" information. It happens from time to time. What did you find on Earth Force?"

"The names of the other ships that went AWOL after you guys. Psi Corp has a list they get from Earth Force so that if Black Omega comes across them during patrol they can bring them in---or take them down which ever you please. There were also names of Earth Force officers charged in absentia for treason because they're opposing Clarke and have gone to ground."

"Do you have any information? We really need those ship names and locations."

"I don't have the information that I was trying to get on the first mission. As I said, I got caught in the middle of trying to get it. But, I'm pretty sure you're name's on the list. Anyway, we did manage to get some information on this last trip." Then she looks a Marcus and he takes over,

"Yeah, we got a few of the names of AWOL ships when we were on Earth. There obviously may be more, but these are the ones we know about for certain. The Agamemnon, Tigress, Euphrates, Kitty Hawk, Kyoto, Union Jack, and the Romanov. We made contact with the Kitty Hawk and told them Babylon 5 was safe harbor if they needed to dock for repairs, etc. Hope that was alright, captain."

"That's fine. Good work, you two. Now all we need to do is find the others. Anything more?"

Marcus nodded and started the report,

"Psi Corp is definitely experimenting trying to make their version of Technomages and we're almost certain some of those Psi Cops are artificial P12s. Meaning, they finally figured out a way to supe up their power but can't get anything higher than a P12. Which is as high as it is possible for those types of telepaths to go.

Citizens on the street don't really seem interested in anything but their daily lives. Whatever resistance was building on Earth is gone. The new Senate was convened and people have adjusted to the new rules on Earth. Those who protested didn't live long. Earth Force officers seem to take their sworn oath seriously and aren't protesting either. Who knows. They seem to feel they're being patriotic. The anti-alien campaign helps. Clarke's P.R. is good. Whatever he's doing is to uplift humanity. We are, apparently, suffering from the affects of alien influence. Free Mars was already in place long ago so they tried to take up this fight. They don't understand the extent of what's going on. After the Rangers were killed, they lost all of their sources of information. Absolutely no news about the Shadow war or anything that the rest of the galaxy was involved in for the last two years is widely known. Plus, they have had to go completely underground because of the Psi Cops out doing random scans.

Something else really strange, we got the feeling that everyone in Psi Corp has been recalled. Obviously, those hiding from the Corp are nowhere near them if they can help it, but it seems like every single human telepath except for Talia and the ones who are Rangers are on Earth or Mars. Or working specifically for some purpose connected to their various projects."

"We all read Talia's report. The base in the Lanep system that was destroyed by one of the Technomages was the only one at that time. When he destroyed it he shut down Earth Force's work completely. Plus, it was a top secret closed base. All those involved in the project died. They had nothing to work with, all the information and tests were destroyed, they couldn't do anything. Until recently. They got another Shadow ship and Earth Force is starting all over again. They're going to recreate the hybrid ship and figure out how to modify its Destroyers."

Then he took a deep breath and exhaled before looking up at them all,

"They're planning to build an entire fleet."

A couple of In Valen's names and a G'Quon later he just sort of looked around and didn't say anything. Sheridan picked up on that.

Everyone's shifting their position on the grass 'cause things are getting more and more complicated and its almost as desperate as the Shadow war. The captain looks at those two and knows that there's more.

"What else are we dealing with?"

When Marcus and Selene look at each other everyone knows there's more. Marcus shakes his head and Selene nods. She looks up and tries to ease into it,

"Has anyone wondered what the Wind Swords have been up to lately?" Then she said absolutely positively not one more word.

G'Kar could not be sure but he is almost certain that Delenn and Fannol are no longer breathing. She is pale and looks like she could suffer a heart attack at any moment. Sheridan reaches for her to offer comfort though he starts to understand a heck of a lot more than he ever wanted and he seems to find a place for some of the loose information he had floating around in his head. Delenn would not be broken so easily by something like this. Her expression hardens and her eyes become stony,

"Where is Shikiri?" There was steel in her voice. It scared Selene but she answered.

"We couldn't find him."

Talia is trying to figure out what all of this means and how the hell it is going to play out. "Why would the Wind Swords join with Earth? They would not surrender. They hate humans."

Marcus thinks about how to answer it and then decides to ask a question instead,

"The enemy of my enemy is my friend?"

It didn't matter for the moment, everyone was silent. G'Kar has seen enough about the great workings of the universe and he understands the dark passion which lurk in the hearts of man but he did not want to know this for certain. It made sense to him and it fit with what he felt he knew was to come. Being right is not always a good thing. And how were they going to defend against whatever ships or technology the Warriors managed to develop or get their hands on in the last decade? They know the capabilities of War Cruisers, their weaknesses and their strengths. Then he looked over at Selene and Marcus and smiled,

"How soon are we to start building the new ships?"

That broke the death quiet and Selene couldn't help but laugh as Marcus joined in once they understood what he was suggesting. The others aren't sure they're following then the captain smiles when he puts together G'Kar's train of thought.

"That is up to Entil'Zha. I do not know if the Workers or the Religious Caste will grab for this project. But since White Star 2 is in dry dock, they might as well pull out the shuttle and start studying the technology as quickly as possible."

Susan's still experiencing Fannol's emotions and Talia is cutting them both some slack under the circumstances so Marcus fills her in,

"Remember when the jump gate was opening and closing randomly? That was ships like ours going down to the planet. When we were at the Gathering they helped the Vorlon war ships defend the station then left with them. Its gooood technology." Then he smiled.

"Hey, I guess that's why Draal gave us that box and said to take it to Minbar the next time we were here. Its probably got everything they need inside." She giggled at that. Marcus turned to look at Michael,

"Since you and G'Kar completely destroyed White Star 9, I suppose you two are gonna luck out with the proto type of whatever they come up with."

The mood was lightened with that but they still had much to discuss and much to wade through. Delenn needed clarification and she knew she was going to have to center herself before she spoke with John in private about what was to come. She fully supported whatever course of action he thought was best for Earth. Now she learns there is something about to tear the fabric of Minbar apart and she has specific responsibilities.

"Selene, Marcus. Is it your opinion or belief that we will have one war or two to fight?"

They knew what that meant. If they had thrown in together it would be a mess. The Babylon 5 treaty gave White Stars the authority to patrol boarders of all the member races. They gave John Sheridan anything he wanted after the Gathering. They could still trade on his political clout to get them back in a war if they had to but this was different.

"The Warriors are Minbari Delenn. That goes against Clarke's anti-alien message and policy. Definitely not 1."

"I agree that the Warriors would sit back to see if Earth can defeat us on their own. Waiting until we are weakened from the other war would be logical. They would not waste resources. That gives me some time to prepare."

"What about Proxima 3? How is the training camp there?"

"Very strong. They are getting many of the humans who cannot get to Minbar. Quite a lot of Moon Shields are there as well. We also found Matthew Gideon along the way. He's had a hard time this last year. We sort of gave him a ride and dropped him off there."

Then the captain thinks about something.

"Selene, you and Marcus go get that box Draal gave you. Is it here or up on the ship?"

"Its in my room. We didn't know what it was so we thought we should bring it down."

"Fine. Delenn, who gets to build these and who should be given the tech? It is the Workers' right."

"True. The Religious Caste has not turned over operation of the White Stars even now that the war is over. To give them this would be an insult. But I think that we are facing a perfect example of what separation among Minbari leads to. Give me the rest of the day. I am going to call a meeting with the heads of both so that we form a joint construction team. This must be kept quieter than the building of the White Star fleet. And we must have them built as quickly as possible. The Anla'Shok must be prepared. If any upgrades based on this technology can be made to the design of the White Stars, then they should do it as soon as possible. I want the entire fleet outfitted with that defense shield."

"Ok, Delenn, after you meet with them can you instruct Marcus and Selene in what they need to do and who they need to see? Since they've flown the ship for months, they know everything about it. Too bad we can't get the ship here."

Marcus and Selene look at each other and then laugh,

"Actually captain, we can."

"Someone else knows how to fly that thing?"

"Nope it can cloak and we can program it to fly here on auto pilot."

"What?"

"I told you guys it was goood technology!"

"Excellent Marcus. Make ready to do so as soon as we are finished here."

"Delenn, you seem to have all the hard work here. I'm assuming you have to meet with the Council." The captain was moving fast.

She's grave for a few moments.

"Yes, but it is not time to tell them. I do need to go up to the ship." Then she turns to Marcus, "I promise this is not an attempt to sneak away as you call it. I do need to go up there but not to see anyone. I just need to be there for some time. Not too long, just a couple of hours."

Marcus looked at her and knew she was sincere. He also realized exactly why she was going up there and nodded to her in full understanding. "Fine, in addition to your guards, I'm certain Lennier is going whether he's invited or not."

"Marcus, that is unkind."

"He was mean to me first."

Only after that came out did he realize he sounded all of 7 and laughed at himself before Michael could start in on him, "I realize how that sounded leave me alone."

They laughed anyway and the captain couldn't help join in.

"In the meantime, Selene and Marcus, while you're waiting for Delenn to meet with the team to start building these ships, you both need to sit down With G'Kar and map out where you were and where you found certain things. He knows known space better than all of us combined."

Marcus is quicker,

"Yeah, these are flight and sensor logs. We've got lots of survey data." He reached into his pocket and pulled out a few data crystals then handed it to G'Kar. "That has everything we hope you'll need and then you can start explaining things to us. Selene seems to think that there is something very specific happening over in one of those sectors that was mentioned in the Book of G'Quon but neither of us are experts in it so we didn't understand what we were looking at."

That got Michael's attention and he perked up noticeably. When he heard the captain snicker at his reaction, "I think we covered the peanut gallery around here quite some time ago." With that, Michael dismissed him and turned to G'Kar.

"Of course, Michael, your assistance will be invaluable. We'll partner on this and find the answer that much quicker."

"Good, we'll get started as soon as I figure out what's going on with security. Actually, never mind. Zack and Mai'lenn will just tell me what they want me to know." Then he turned and narrowed his eyes at Sheridan adopting Kailenn's look of displeasure and shook his head before turning away.

Susan looks around, "How long are we all going to be on Minbar?"

No one had thought about that and looked to the captain. He, in turn, looked to Stephen.

"We'll be here for awhile. We have to prioritize. We cannot initiate any action against Earth from Minbari space. We loose credibility. That effort has to come from Babylon 5. As the captain said, Delenn has the most official work out of all of us and it needs to be done here from Tuzanor. The station is secure and I believe reinforcements should be arriving soon if they aren't already there."

In response to everyone's confused expression, "Vorlon war ships. They're being sent back to guard the station. Nothing Earth Force managed to put together from dead Shadow ships or technology can stand against the real thing. The Vorlons can't and won't fight our battles for us but they will protect the station in our absence."

When everyone nodded their extreme relief he continued, "The ambassadors won't step out of line. Corwin will see to that. With the exception of the command staff and certain Rangers being absent, they can't complain about the running of the station. After the war, they can't complain about much."

"Minbari will need to see us. We have all been working at Babylon 5 for too long. We need to be isolated from humans for awhile. There was too great a possibility that someone from Earth Gov got near us or learned inside information in the past.

Fannol, you need to start organizing the Anla'Shok here. We will have many ships to man. Susan can help with that. Delenn mentioned a joint construction team for ship building. We need the same thing. Worker and Religious Caste need to be welcomed to work right beside us in all efforts without having to join the Anla'Shok first."

"Fannol, you also need to find us a meeting place. I enjoy the beauty of the outdoors as much as the next person but I don't think we should continue to alarm the others. We still have to gather information on the Wind Swords."

The captain looked to Stephen once he finished giving out instructions knowing they didn't get any of the practical, historical or juicy information that he's capable of sharing and tried not to show his irritation. But when Stephen caught his eye and shook his head, he knew he was busted and just laughed.

"Fine. Delenn, can we have Rangers from Proxima 3 head out to find the other Earth Force ships on the list? I'd like to have them team up with those humans leading the Resistance on the planet. It might make them more open to the truth and help them understand. They have to be made aware of what's generally going on and that they are not simply resisting government oppression."

"Yes. We need to be of one mind and one accord on what is to come. You will have joint authority over those Rangers as you see fit. Those at or around Babylon 5 can act as couriers and I am certain they will without our request considering Zack and Mai'lenn. I am certain she left instructions for them to do everything except use surveillance devices to gather information on every ambassador's home world, tap every source and contact in down below dry, and get every morsel of information from traders, merchants and cargo liners coming through the station."

No one could deny that. Nor would they exclude the possibility that she might have authorized surveillance devices.

"Susan, contact Corwin and update him on the situation officially. He already knows what's going on unofficially. Give him the names of those Earth Destroyers that might be stopping by. Share the Gold Channel with Marcus when he warns him about the unmanned ship taking off from the private bay."

"Talia, go through the rest of the data they brought back that deals with Psi Corp and the lab activity because I know Selene did not give us any of the details of what they are doing down there on purpose."

When Selene looked bashful and embarrassed the captain continued, "Thank you. Something tells me I'll sleep better tonight not knowing."

She couldn't deny it when her eyes met Talia's they nodded in understanding.

"Stephen, what are you going to be doing?"

"Aside from dodging Kailenn which will now be officially impossible, there are some people on Minbar I need to see. All of them are not in Tuzanor so I might be traveling a bit."

"Huh?"

"Its part of my job." At their blank stares, "My OTHER job."

"Oh."

Susan turned to Michael.

"This might be a good time for you to check in with some of your "informants in various castes and locations." Somebody ought to know something about Shikiri. Its been awhile but maybe they've heard from the Wind Swords."

Those who know what she's talking about are nodding strong agreement. "Yeah, I was thinking about that."

They all rose and headed out of the garden. That was the cue for the others to hop to it. Susan and Fannol stopped and told their people they were going back to their ships to pack their bags because they would be staying awhile. G'Kar said he would get the rest of his things later. He wanted to get started on the information Marcus gave him. G'Kar might have been in a state but he still remembered to grab his carry on!

Poor Tathann wasn't sure who to take orders from but when he saw that Garibaldi didn't give him any he looked to Mai'lenn. She called for 3 of his other regular guards to come down to escort the captain. Once Zack saw that the Council, including the chief, were just standing around waiting for their various details to be assigned to them, he breathed a silent sigh of relief that he did not have to fight with anyone. When those with guards were attended to, Marcus and Selene went up to Zack and Mai'lenn. She did not wish to hear his displeasure but waited patiently.

"Delenn is preparing to leave the compound for some meetings. She will have several over the next few days. Her detail is already assigned and Lennier will most likely travel with her. I can update you with her schedule once I know the fixed times. She has one appointment later this week that I would prefer not to send her regular guards with her. When the time comes, we will met privately to discuss it."

Mai'lenn did not miss that Cole looked at both her and Zack when he said that. Then he said no more and they walked off. Michael knew there was going to be a fight with and about Stephen over his travel arrangements. He looked at him sharply and his expression clearly demanded no grief. Now that Stephen told them Zack and Mai'lenn's group were called to oversee their security he wasn't sure what he was going to do about Stephen and his guards yet. He didn't know what Stephen's other work entailed but if it was something really other worldly then the special teams needed to be there not his regular guards. He turned to Stephen,

"Don't get an attitude with me or start acting cranky. I'm asking for security reasons. Is there any reason your regular detail can't travel with you when you make these house calls or will it require---special supervision?"

For once, he wasn't actually being difficult and that made Michael suspicious. He could tell Stephen was thinking about it,

"They're going to follow anyway. I'd hate to waste man power and resources that way. How about Mai'lenn's group when it's a regular day trip here in Tuzanor and when I have to travel away from here you guys to can work it out ½ and ½ by shifts or something?"

"That's the first time you've EVER cooperated with me. You know I find that highly suspect."

"I know but its serious so I'm not going to give you grief about it."

"Thanks. You've got to give me as much notice as you possibly can before one of these trips. Especially the overnight kind. Um, I'd get going if I were you. Maybe Talenn needs some help or you can sit in on one of Turval's classes quick."

"Why?"

"I just spotted Kailenn from that upper window. She had you zeroed in on her scope. It looks like she's on the way down."

Stephen laughed.

"Yeah, I saw that. Nah, I'll let her go ahead an catch me today. I don't inflict pain and I'm certain if she doesn't get me alone she'll burst!"

Captain Sheridan knew he had to get both his thoughts and his plans in order. He thought they would recoup and then go after Clarke as quickly as possible. Marcus and Selene threw him a few curves and he had to sort some things out. Regardless if any decisions would be made or even if the particulars of the situation would be discussed, he knew there was one person he needed to speak with. When he showed up at his parents' suite unannounced, neither seemed the least bit surprised to see him. His mother gave him a quick kiss then went back to what she was doing. He stood in the middle of the room trying to process that he was spending time with his parents again but on Minbar in their new home at the Anla'Shok training camp. It was a little weird. Knowing John Sheridan as well as he did his father stood up,

"Come on. Let's go for a walk."

They walked in silence for about 10 minutes just getting used to each other's presence again. The captain finally turned to his father,

"Liberating Earth is going to take longer than I thought."

David Sheridan was silent for a few moments as he let his son's tone register. He wouldn't ask questions but he would help any way he could.

"The difficult things do. The important things. But, there is a time and a season for all things."

That caused the captain to turn around and look at his father, searching for something.

"That's an interesting way of putting it."

"No, John, its an accurate way of putting it. You know that I am right."

"Yes. Its been two years. Two long years and they are still under Clarke's thumb."

"You make it seem like eternity. Yes, before you start lecturing me on tyranny and oppression, I understand two years is two years too long. That's not the point. If all the reports and information I've gotten are correct, you've been a little busy yourself during that time."

They share a laugh as the captain is forced to agree.

"Yes. Something else came up and had to be dealt with first."

"I take it that's the case now."

"Yes. And we will deal with it. I can't help but wonder if things will keep happening to get in the way."

"That might be the plan."

"What?" He didn't understand how his father could say that.

"You heard me, son. We don't know everything. What we do know, what I am certain of, is that you will do what has to be done when the time comes. That's what is asked and required of you."

"It seems I just can't stay out of fights. When will there ever be peace?"

"I taught you never to start a fight but to always finish it. Same thing here. And some times peace is just another word for failure. Real changes take time. And they take hard work. Earth is in the position is it because of quick fixes and a desire to take the easy way out. Trying to fly before we learned how to crawl and not understanding that there is a definite price for everything."

"You're talking about the war against the Minbari?"

"Partly. So over confident about our success against the Dilgar---though every general and politician in Earth Dome seemed to forget that was a joint effort with several other races---that we just had to go out searching for the Minbari to open trade agreements with them. The Centauri warned us to leave them alone but..."

"Wait, what did you say?" This is news to him.

"The President's aide and the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs tried to get the Centauri government to act as envoy and facilitate an introduction between Earth and Minbar because we started hearing reports from other races that they were the oldest and most advanced race. They contacted the Centauri ambassador---Mollari. Anyway, he wouldn't do it. Tried to explain that the Minbari don't involve themselves in the affairs of other races and that Earth shouldn't go looking for them. They accused him of trying to keep a monopoly on Earth's trade. Finally, he said he'd give them basic information about them and the location of their space but that was it and the Centauri would have no part in any attempts Earth made with First Contact. You wouldn't believe the phone calls I got after that meeting. Everyone was upset. He actually called them arrogant, prideful fools who were about to learn there were greater things in the universe than they every imagined."

"I had no idea. Londo is---different now. But, he was right."

"Yes. And when we found out just how great they were and how out classed we were, they went to him again and tried to get him to sell us the more advanced Centauri weapons once we realized ours weren't doing a thing."

"What happened? Or I can guess."

"Of course, he said no. He'd warned us. He wasn't about to put his people at risk once the Minbari realized they were being attacked with Centauri weapons. Said there was no price high enough. Then he packed up the embassy and took every Centauri with him from Earth."

"There's a lesson in here somewhere besides political history I didn't know. But, dad, for the life of me I can't see it. Help me out."

His father just chuckled and shook his head.

"Some things take time if they are to be done right. Some things happen for a reason no matter what we do to try and prevent it. The war crushed a lot of egos. Folks back on Earth have no clue why the Minbari surrendered."

Then his father leaned over in a mock conspiratorial whisper, "Kailenn was real helpful on that point." They both laughed and he continued.

"Point is, it took 10 years but some people actually convinced themselves that we 'won' the war. Technicalities aside, we know that isn't true. But it prevents them from looking deeper and finding the root of the problem. Sure, there was blame on both sides. And, the Minbari went too far trying to kill every single human in the universe because one human killed the best of them. Bottom line, the war was necessary and we both know that. 12 years later, look where we are standing. This is progress. This is real change and it was done through real hard work. Anything worth having is worth fighting and waiting for.

Earth Alliance did it again. They were blind to Clarke and then too weak or too stupid to speak up. Corporations, politicians and soldiers alike all sat silently by while changes were happening. Dissolving the senate and ordering martial law were just the last things. But there was the arrogance and pride of fools early on who saw the downfall of others as a stepping stone for themselves so they remained silent. Somehow they thought they would be exempt. There are a lot of things going on back on Earth and Mars. Not much of it is any good. When its real its built sturdy to last. When its all smoke and mirrors it will eventually be exposed, then fall apart."

Then he stopped talking and stared out at the landscape in front of him waiting for his son to catch up. David Sheridan knew many things. Most he could not share with his son right now. He might never be able to, but he could draw parallels and use history as a means of getting a few of his points across.

[There's always another layer to it.] That's what John Sheridan thought as he listened to his father. He'd always relied on his counsel and advice over the years. And he'd always learned something important from his father's stories about his dealings with other governments and races. But David Sheridan always had something wrapped in the message. Some kernel of wisdom or knowledge that wasn't readily apparent and usually didn't click until much later when a situation arose and he needed it.

"Thank you."

"Don't ever thank me for giving out advice. You're my son, it comes with the territory."

"I wasn't available this week. You probably have some questions about that."

"No."

He turned and looked at his father in surprise. He was absolutely positive that his parents noticed his behavior during the past week. Well, the behavior of all of them and they all put on a nice little show earlier that day. But the look on his father's face was serious. He didn't have any questions and he found no fault with him. John Sheridan never had a poker face when it came to his parents. They could see right through him since he was a little boy. His relief and gratitude was unmistakable but his father ignored it. He and his wife agreed, once they had an understanding of their son's new life and his responsibilities, that they would never make him feel uncomfortable or as if he had to explain anything to them. They loved him as is, no matter who or what he was. And, Kailenn really was being a great help in explaining that more.

The captain simply nodded and moved on once he was able to get past the lump in his throat.

"Well, it looks like we will have more time than I thought. We'll all be staying here for awhile. Not really sure how long but something has come up. We've got to do it from here."

He heard what his son didn't say. They were going to be fighting again. Somehow he got the impression it would be against Minbari too. Nothing else would seem to explain what he saw this past week. And what he witnessed earlier that day. Fine, he'd be available anytime his son needed to talk. Both his parents would.

"I know you and mom have your adjustments to make and it seems like you've already been roped in by Kailenn so that will take some time. Be aware she's probably Minbar's only evangelist and missionary. Um, intense doesn't cover it."

"Yes, we noticed that she's quite---dedicated."

"Yeah. Anyway, we haven't put our plans in motion. We just learned this information today and we still need to gather more. Delenn is going to be very busy and very distracted now dealing with official channels that only she can. I'm still trying to make up my mind how I want to handle certain things and to be honest, my mind's on overload right now. My point is that there will be things coming in from Babylon 5. Proposals and negotiations that the ambassadors are going to be voting on. A time may come when a certain course of action we may decide on will impact other governments. Basically, I'm wondering if you and mom would be available to look over some things and perhaps share your opinions from time to time."

"You want political advice during your military campaigns."

"Well, when yo put it like that I guess so."

"Don't feel bad. Your mom and I have been a team for over 30 years. We know what's what." Then he hesitated and looked at his son carefully, "I think it's a wise thing to do."

He said no more but he didn't have to. John Sheridan also knew his father. [Oh yes, you know a heck of a lot. Whether you'll tell me is a different story. Fine. I'll definitely take what I can get.]

"Thanks."

Lennier was concerned and watched Delenn carefully once she returned to her suite. She whirled into the greeting room and informed him that they would be staying on in Tuzanor indefinitely. That was a surprise. He did not know why the two of them would need to remain but he was more than happy to do so. When she corrected him and said that everyone would be staying on in Tuzanor he grew concerned. But Delenn didn't say anymore on the subject. Instead, she set about making an appointment before Lennier had a chance to offer his assistance. He listened carefully became very suspicious when he heard just who she was contacting. After the first few calls she turned to Lennier,

"I hope you are well rested. We have a considerable amount of work to do and it will not be easy. But we will not take no for an answer."

Then she went back to her calls. Ironically, that was all it took for Lennier to relax. He knew this reaction and this attitude. Yes, something was wrong but Delenn was not distressed, she was determined. Lennier excused himself for a few minutes. As much as he did not want to miss a single word during any of her calls he had something else that needed to be done. Besides, he reasoned that he would be right there with Delenn during all of the meetings and would hear everything then. He slipped out to observe the others. They were all engaged in specific activity and Fannol seemed to be setting up a permanent meeting room for them. This satisfied him that they were all back to their old selves and just as determined as Delenn.

None of those at the camp seemed to recover from the events of the past week as quickly as the ones involved. They still did not know what to make of any of the things they saw from that group but they all assumed something was coming the way they all seemed to be moving around purposefully. None of them were sure what to do with or make of that strange security team so they stayed out of their way. Later that day, Michael, Marcus and Selene met With both Zack and Mai'lenn to inform them that they would be staying on in Tuzanor indefinitely. Michael looked at Marcus and he glanced at Selene for a moment trying to decide what else to tell them. She shrugged so Michael thought giving them a bare bones heads up would be ok.

"Some changes are coming to Minbar and the Federation and we are preparing for them."

That's all they said. Then Michael moved on. "The captain's guards remain as is. They protect him physically and they protect his privacy. That is the only way he feels comfortable with security. If your people are observing him...." Michael is silent for a moment and closes his eyes. Then opens them and finishes. "If they are observing him, they need to stay out of his sight and stay silent. And the two of you will keep me informed of anything you might learn." Michael Garibaldi was not going to apologize if he offended anyone with that. He promised the captain certain things and he was trying to keep those promises.

Mai'lenn and Zack were not offended. They heard what the chief said and did not say and they understood the delicate situation. They would be discreet and they would stay out of his way. And they would definitely share anything they learned with him. To do otherwise would impair his ability to protect the captain and could lead to serious problems in the future. Michael finished up by briefly briefing them on Stephen's trips and explaining that he was willing to be reasonable in an effort not to waste man power. That made Marcus, Zack and Mai'lenn stare in disbelief.

"Yes, you all heard me. He's willing to work with us on this so let's take advantage of it for the time being. I guarantee it won't last. Then you two can share my headache." Then he turned to Marcus indicating he was done.

Marcus took a deep breath and exhaled. Then he looked at Selene and Michael.

"I need to take a walk with Mai'lenn and Zack." Michael knew this had to do with Delenn going up to visit the Nine. Selene wasn't sure what it was about except that it involved Delenn. She didn't think she was anyone special to know certain things about Enti'Zha no matter that she was on the Council or not. She nodded and turned to Michael, "Come on I'm interested in these various informants."

Marcus knew that Mai'lenn saw Delenn in the captain's quarters when the Shadow agent attacked. They had this discussion so he knew she understood the importance of keeping silent about certain things. He was very concerned about any breach in Delenn's privacy. Yes, some of the station Rangers found out but so far he hoped that it was contained among the Anla'Shok. He was absolutely certain no one on the Grey Council knew when she was a member. They never would have dared to remove her. He's certain Dukhat knew. Maybe from her or Kosh. He's not sure how he found out but the fact that he kept her secret from the Council means a great deal. Something in him says Rathenn knows now. How he found out concerns him most of all. But he does not want Minbari to find out. Especially with what is to come. He is at a cross roads of protecting her privacy and protecting her life with this new situation.

Mai'lenn and Zack make eye contact. They know he is warring with something serious and cannot decide whether he trusts them with specific information that pertains to Delenn. They have no idea why the Council seems to have accepted their presence without comment but are simply grateful and do not ask. They will allow him to work through this in his own way. Once they are far away from everything and everyone at the camp, Marcus sits down under a tree and motions for them to join him.

"Delenn is my number one priority. I left her care and safety to you, Mai'lenn, because you are capable of protecting her and I had no other choice than to go on that mission. You are aware that Delenn is special in many ways. We discussed the necessity of keeping certain things that may or may not have been witnessed by station Rangers during the Shadow agent attack secret. Circumstances continue to arise that place that secret in jeopardy of being exposed."

Then he stopped and looked at both of them. He did not know if Zack had been briefed on this and would not betray her confidence if he had not. Calling or not. They seemed to understand because Zack simply nodded and said,

"I know all there is to know."

Marcus could do nothing but accept that. The look of pain on his face was almost too much for Zack and Mai'lenn to watch and they understood that something very specific and very serious was going to play out. They waited.

"Delenn needs to travel up to the Grey Council ship tomorrow for several hours. Lennier will travel with her but will not accompany her the entire time she is on board. I will go and so will both of you. There are certain protocols that I am not certain if either of you are aware of. We will have to break most of them for several reasons. First, I am not going to assign any of her guards for this trip. No reports will be filed with anyone and if you should happen to see something, you did not see it. There are specific reasons for that beyond what you might be thinking."

He stopped talking but they knew he was not finished. After a few minutes,

"We have to protect her privacy from the Grey Council itself. I suspect that after the Gathering they will not ask certain questions but they will be zealous in their attempts to learn specific information about her." The light goes on for Zack and Mai'lenn at this point and they both know where he's going.

"We must prevent that. Mai'lenn, you are aware of the one thing located on that ship that has a specific connection to Delenn and only Delenn. Something she has the power to use in a way no one else can."

She whispered it, "The Triluminary."

"Yes. I fear the Nine suspect that now and will attempt to monitor her secretly and record her actions. It is a miracle in itself and on some level, I can hardly blame them for wanting to see what she can do or make it do. But, it is something that was intended to remain between Delenn and the Universe alone and is not for anyone else to see or to know. We have to make sure of that. I also fear that when she was last onboard the ship they may have taken advantage of her....agitated state and used that to see something they should not have without her knowledge. This time, we must use all possible means to shield her from prying eyes."

Yeah, they got it and they really see the seriousness of the situation as it is without whatever Marcus is still keeping from them. Mai'lenn looks to Marcus and her voice is gentle to help ease his distress,

"We came prepared with equipment for just such an occasion. Both audio and video relay can be blocked completely."

"Good." Still they knew there was something else. They just did not know if it was related or not.

"This can go no further than the two of you and you cannot speculate on it for many reasons. First, you would not even come close to figuring out the truth and that is not an exaggeration." He waited for them to agree but he wanted verbal and not just heads bobbing up and down. They sensed that.

"We understand."

"Delenn will need...special protection. I have not been able to find Shikiri yet, and that is only ½ the problem."

Mai'lenn gasped and put her hand over her mouth. Yes, that fool wanted power and leadership. Yes, the Warriors started a civil war and killed Minbari. Yes, Neroon actually wanted to kill her once. But that is not what he just said! Zack was just as floored. Until that moment he didn't think he could be shocked by the possibility of anything anymore. He uttered the obligatory, "In Valen's name" and just looked at Marcus. Pieces were starting to fit into place though he wasn't sure what to do with them. And he KNEW he was missing a great deal.

Mai'lenn and Zack had developed their own telepathic language over the last year. He told them not to speculate but they were not stupid or blind. And THEY had a job to do. They would not speculate. They would consult and discuss the feasibility of certain alternatives, possible situations and potential outcomes.

"Delenn will be very visible and very active while we are in Tuzanor. She will make some trips as well. But her movements cannot be monitored too closely by others least they raise suspicion of what we are actually doing here. I mentioned that there were many reasons Delenn's secret must remain a secret. Now you know some of them even if you do not understand why."

Neither of them had the slightest idea they would be having a conversation such as this with Marcus. They had to work out just what they would do with all of this information and missing information. They had to figure out how they would specifically go about protecting Delenn from the Grey Council tomorrow. The three of them sat for quite some time under that tree until they worked out every detail of their plan.

Once they were alone Mai'lenn turned to Zack,

"He is concerned about keeping her secret from the Council. We need to keep his secret from them as well."

"Agreed. Everyone knows he went through that gateway with the rest of them. I know they've heard everything that happened. They will be monitorng at him just as closley.

"True. They will also be confused and suspicious by our presence and not her normal guards. That will alert them that something has changed."

"We agree with Marcus that she'll try to see the Triluminary on this visit and they'll agree so they can watch her. But, they know they aren't suppose to be watching her so when they get no picture or sound, they can't complain. They'd have to admit to something they wouldn't dare."

"You think more and more like a Minbari everyday, Zack, it frightens me." Then she laughed. "What do we do about Lennier?"

"Lennier was with her before. He's planning to come this time. I say we go get him and squeeze every single drop of information out of him about what happened the last time. He'll try to play dumb and remain silent but once he sees we aren't playing and understands that both of us are going, I think he'll talk."

"I do like the way you think. Let us go and begin the...what is that term... ah yes, the shake down."

"Lennier and Cole are to be expected but what of the other two?"

"She is Anla'Shok."

"Yes, she is but he is not. This is highly unusual."

"That is a Babylon 5 uniform by the patch on the sleeve. Why would Entil'Zha travel with a member of station security as a guard? Especially here on Minbar?"

"I do not know. Something is going on. He wears both a side arm and a denn'bok. Since when do humans carry denn'boks as standard weapons?"

"Perhaps he is Anla'Shok in hiding. They say Ivanova was for at least a year. We suspect that long since we traced what we believe was her first visit to Tuzanor."

"That is possible but there is no reason for him to be undercover. Especially on that station. And he is hardly hiding with the denn'bok!"

"She's entering. Let us watch now and discuss this later."

"Is it set to record?"

"Yes, of course."

They see Marcus and Zack walk into the chamber first and look around. This does not offend them considering what they viewed of her at the Gathering. Special precautions are understandable. Truly, they wish these two would hurry up with their inspection so that they can see what will happen. They could hardly contain themselves while she went back to the library with Lennier and spent hours reading those old texts again. Just as before she managed to slip away unnoticed, even from her guards, and disappeared somewhere on the ship. They were very curious about that but would not defy Dukhat's directive. After her last visit, they welcomed her time with the Triluminary because of what they had come to believe was a sign of the Vorlon fleet protecting them. Now they cannot help but speculate on what could possibly happen next. They learned almost immediately that both she and Captain Sheridan were in Tuzanor. Then they got word that his parents requested and were granted Minbari citizenship in one day. That Delenn had personally overseen it and that they had taken up permanent residence at the headquarters. They knew something was going on. They just didn't know what.

Captain Sheridan seems to have a set routine when he is in Tuzanor because all the residents know when he arrives and how long he remains at the Temple of Valen. They would use that as the confirmation of how long he was actually in the city. They needed more information. Careful and very discreet inquires gave them nothing so they simply sent an aide there under some guise. Imagine their surprise to learn that 5 of the others were there. She could get nothing from the tight lipped and over protective Anla'Shok so they thought they would try a different approach and contact the station. No one would tell them anything from official channels so they had to use a bit of encouragement and learned from some Minbari merchants that Fannol, Ivanova and G'Kar had left the station. Once they checked the orbital docking ring it was confirmed that White Stars 3 and 14 arrived yesterday. The Nine were convinced something else was happening to move them all here. They seem entrenched at Tuzanor and it appears that all of them will remain for some time. That is definite cause for concern and now that she has come on board again they will see what she does this time. They do not know if they will understand the sign but hopefully Rathenn would advise them on this as well.

Finally! They are moving toward the door and can see Entil'Zha about to enter. Then---nothing. The monitors all shut down and there is no sound. They cannot see a thing.

"This is the worst possible moment for equipment failure! We must call someone at once."

"And say what? If they were able to fix the problem they would see Entil'Zha in the room. Then they would know we were spying on her."

"Is that not our right?"

"I am not certain of that. Besides, they will see WHERE she is and might even see WHAT she is doing."

"Which would be alright as long as WE could see as well."

"How soon we forget Rathenn's words."

"What do you mean?"

"One false step... remember when we listened in on him and the others? Perhaps this is our warning that we are not to know what Delenn can do."

They each think about that for some time and decide they really have nothing better to go with and it sounds good.

"Fine, but we all remember what happened on the heels of her last visit. We know the rest have all come to Minbar. And we still do not know what to make of this strange twist in her security."

"What are you saying?"

"Something is going to happen."

"That might not be such a bad thing."

"No. I have no proof except that I think we better prepare for whatever is to come. Rathenn was concerned about something very specific and very serious."

"How do we prepare for what we do not know will occur?"

"I suggest we take our cue from the others."

"Agreed. Prayer and reflection would seem in order."

The watchers were very observant. They went about finding duties to occupy their time while keeping an eye on their charges. That's what they were used to doing and that is what helped them to blend in so well. They had effectively blown their cover by coming to Minbar and the Vorlons managed to expose them even more. They knew that. They knew everyone else wanted to know what they knew and how they knew it but they said nothing. Their problem on Minbar was that they did not blend in. Especially the humans from station security. They could not go out and about in the city and gather information or observe others without calling attention to themselves. Of course there were humans in Tuzanor. No one gave it a second thought. Except those humans were all Anla'Shok and not Babylon 5 station security and their uniforms or civilian clothes were a dead give away. It drew attention to the members of the War Council and they could not allow that. For now, Zack limited them to the camp except for those who will travel with Stephen because that would seem normal. He and Mai'lenn weren't sure what they'd do. So, for now they'd simply watch and assist.

When Delenn walked out of the chamber she seemed calm and in control. To everyone except Lennier and Marcus who knew her best. They were certain that something did not go well. Lennier was not certain what she did when she left him going over the last of the records but he saw her expression and demeanor. Marcus knew she was with the Triluminary and could tell she needed to leave the ship immediately. Zack and Mai'lenn picked up on that as well and they all left without word or comment. Once back at the headquarters she went directly to her room and said that she was tired and wanted to rest undisturbed but that if any of the Sheridans wished to speak with her they should be allowed in without hesitation. Lennier was concerned and decided to stay near so he made himself comfortable in the greeting room. Mai'lenn noticed that Marcus was very quiet and made eye contact with Zack and motioned to him. When Marcus excused himself Mai'lenn and Zack slipped out to follow him. He was preoccupied and did notice them as he nearly slammed into Selene when he rounded a corner. Neither were looking were they were going. Zack and Mai'lenn had no qualms about eavesdropping so they held back and listened. They found they picked up the most valuable information that way.

"Sorry. I wasn't looking where I was going."

"Me either. What's going on?"

"What do you mean?"

"I feel something. I know you feel it too. What is going on?"

"I think its almost time for us to leave."

"That makes sense. I don't know where we're going."

"Me either. What about the others?

"I don't know. We'll have to find a way to ditch them and leave quietly I guess."

"How's Delenn?"

"She feels the winds of change."

"Blessed Z'al."

"You said it. She's resting now."

"I spoke to Brittani. I didn't tell her who they were for but I got her to make two more of those necklaces with the panic alarms in them."

"I'm assuming the other one's for the captain."

"Yeah. I don't think they'll be able to get near Susan without her having warning. Plus, I didn't want to raise a lot of suspicion by asking for too many."

"No, that was good thinking."

"Marcus, who should we have the alarms notify? I'd like to say every damn body for both of them. Michael and Tathann obviously have to know about the captain immediately. Zack and Mai'lenn."

"Us if we're going to be here. Her entire guard detail. All of them. Same thing for him. And Talia. If she has warning she can intervene but no one can know its her. This is going to be very bad."

"I know. Last time all we had to face were Shadows and other Darkness. This is going to be worse."

"Many things are about to happen. We can't be everywhere at the same time."

"Do you think the captain knows what else we have to do?"

"I don't think so. Not for certain but you know he's got that super direct hook up to the Universe."

They both laugh at that.

"True. Not as direct as Stephen's but close enough to keep up with us."

When Marcus and Selene walked off Zack and Mai'lenn did not move. Zack didn't even bother looking at Mai'lenn as he spoke,

"There is so much wrong with that conversation I don't know where to begin."

Mai'lenn is nodding seriously as she turns to Zack with narrowed eyes,

"I was never certain in the past just which of them was the biggest problem. Ivanova and the captain have unique situations and their behavior is unnerving when watching for signs of danger. Dr. Franklin is extremely special and his protection is vital. It does not help that is he not cooperative at the best of times when it comes to his basic security and will throw a temper tantrum at the most inopportune moments. But those two will definitely be the most trouble."

"I really don't think I want to know what could be worse than Shadows and Darkness. I like the idea of the panic alarms and we definitely need to be notified. Secret project? Those two seem to have a lot of them. What do we do about watching them?"

"I say that we monitor the basics of where they are headed. It would not hurt to know if they intend to stay in Tuzanor or if they are heading up to one of the ships."

"Ok, I'll accept that. Just the basics and then they head right back here and check in."

"Fine. Now, what do we do about Entil'Zha?"

"You always ask the hard questions."

Michael decided that it was time to send out some people to gather specific information. He decided to draft one of Talia's guards but wouldn't inform the Warrior of their mission and just hoped they'd figure out what to do on their own.

"I was thinking this would be a good time for you to take a little time off. Nothing too long, couple of weeks. Unless you feel you might want more time once you're there."

Khashrim said nothing. He simply stared at Michael Garibaldi while he listen to him not say whatever he'd decided he wasn't going to say.

"Yeah, this would give you a chance to reconnect with friends and the rest of your clan. So, pack your bags and don't worry about a thing here. Talia isn't going anywhere. She's too busy with her duties and helping the captain's parents adjust to their new home here on Minbar. Yes, it's a good thing for you we all just happen to be staying on in Tuzanor for awhile. Now you get to spend that extra little time with your family and clan catching up on all you might have missed while we were back on Babylon 5."

Then Garibaldi walked off.

Khashrim shook his head. He got it. [So, I am to be the spy? Something very serious is obviously going on. Something Mr. Garibaldi thinks involves the Warriors. That means it involves Shikiri and that means there is a threat to Entil'Zha and Captain Sheridan] He thought about this as he headed off to pack his things and realized that it had to be more than that. He also realized that there was serious doubt as to who could be trusted. For the entire Council to have been moved in their strange way as they were from that great distance and the fact that they were all in Tuzanor indefinitely when everyone had been preparing for the war against Earth just before meant that something very serious was happening. He didn't like what he was starting suspect so he gathered his things as quickly as he could and hurried out.

Delenn was glad to have this information and to make this decision. Mai'lenn and Zack's people had been called by the Universe itself and given their purpose under its direct authority. They did not answer to the Council and they did not answer to her in those specific matters. She knew that her Rangers might be feeling a bit uncomfortable about fulfilling their calling and their oath to her. Stephen said they were Watchers. She knew they would were probably struggling with their duties and responsibilities. The Workers she summoned were surprised by her directives. Then they considered what they witnessed since all of them had arrived and decided they were not. It would be done and it would be done to her specific instructions down to the last detail.

Then she sent word that Mai'lenn and Zack should round up all of their people, pack an overnight bag and go to Valen's home two days later. She let them know that they had use of the home and not to concern themselves with anything else. That shocked both of them. Why she would send them all there was a mystery. The two of them were suspicious that the Council was planning something and this was a means of getting them out of the way. None of them understood why they still had not questioned their presence on Minbar or showed any displeasure at their independent actions. Once they left Delenn's suite Mai'lenn looked to Zack,

"What do you think? Could you detect any misdirection?"

"No. She's good but she seemed really sincere. I think she's on the level."

"Fine. Then why are we all to go to Valen's home?"

"Maybe it has something to do with what she found out when she was on the ship?"

"Perhaps, but I do not think so. Should we leave others behind, just in case?"

"My gut says we go. BUT we grab Lennier before we head out."

"Yes. At the first sign of trouble he must alert us so that we can return."

None of the group was prepared for anything that they saw once they entered the house. Some Workers came and took each of their overnight bags immediately. This was Zack's first time on Minbar so all this was new to him. And visiting Valen's home was definitely something special. Mai'lenn could tell he was excited about it so she decided to relax and let him enjoy whatever was in store for them. She had no idea what that would be. The first thing they noticed was the smell of food. And there seemed to be a variety of different aromas coming from the kitchen. Station personnel were definitely happy about that. None of them were in that big of a hurry to return to Babylon 5 because the food at the training camp was 10x better than the mess hall. By the smells wafting from somewhere in the house they just knew this food would be better than the camp's.

One of the Workers instructed them which room to enter first. The room was dimly light by candles. They really didn't know what to make of that table at first. The Rangers suspected because it seemed familiar to them. That long table had 30 places for each of them to stand at. And there were three bowls in front of each place with a little jewelry box in front of the bowls. No one moved to take a place but Mai'lenn got a better understanding of what was happening once she noticed that some of the place settings had two jewelry boxes in front of them. She turned to the Rangers and told them to take their place at one of those with the two jewelry boxes then turned to Zack who was very confused. He saw that Mai'lenn was moved by something and that the other Rangers were as well. They each opened the boxes to the left and then looked up at Mai'lenn and nodded. All of them had the same suspicions. They were afraid to open the ones to the right so they did not. Mai'lenn moved to one of the two places at the head of the table which she was certain were for her and Zack. She opened the box on the left then reached up and removed her Ranger pin, placed it in the box then closed the lid. When she looked up at the others they did the same thing as well.

Station security looked to Zack. He did not know and could not help them but they all feared that Delenn was removing them from the Rangers. They had no idea what was going on or why they were giving up their pins. They were all emotional so Zack and his people stayed quiet and held back. He still didn't know what the other spots were for or what was in those bowls. Mai'lenn turned to Zack and motioned for him to come stand next to her. He nodded for the others to go find a place of their own. Before anyone else could say a word the door opened and the three Vorlons were back. Only now did the light start to dawn on Zack and the others. He was still concerned about the Rangers being deAnla'Shoked or something. Then he looked down and saw a syringe in front of his place setting and looked up at Mai'lenn wondering what the heck was going on. She smiled. She knew that look. Every single Ranger in training has that expression when they take their final rites. She lifted hers and motioned to the other Rangers and they all drew blood and then put it in one of the bowls. Zack said not one word but seriously hoped that wasn't a part of the appetizer course. He did the same and motioned for his people to follow his example. Then each of the Minbari drew more blood and put that in the second bowl in front of the humans. When they saw the human Rangers do the same with the Minbari, they still weren't sure what it was all about but Zack followed Mai'lenn's lead. The Vorlons hadn't said anything so everybody figured they were fine with the way things were going.

Once everyone finished, one of the Vorlons opened the iris on its encounter suit and a 3D hologram appeared. EVERYONE gasped at what they were seeing. Then they looked to each other in utter confusion, disbelief and a bit of fear. They could not believe their eyes were showing them something that they knew was impossible. Station personnel looked to Zack. It was NOT possible and yet they knew in their hearts that it was. Mai'lenn was in tears along with many of the other Rangers. Their attention was drawn back to the projection once the person started to speak. Someone at the other end almost fainted once they heard the voice but quick reflexes by the others on either side saved the day. Most of them saw how Zack and Mai'lenn just opted to lean against each other for support and did the same.

"Now you all know one of the greatest secrets of all. Until now, this truth was known only to a small but very special group. You will keep this secret just as you have kept others. There will be many more on behalf of the group you are charged to assist. I stand before you all in this manner tonight because I felt that you each needed to understand balance, symmetry and truth. I know that you each understand sacrifice because you answered this calling put before you. We all have the choice to submit to the will of the Universe or not even when we do not understand all that will be required of us. I do not regret answering the call and accepting the path that was set before me. Many things I did not see or know until after I completely accepted the true calling of my heart and took this journey into the distant past. Knowing what will happen and making it happen are two very different things. It is a hard life. A difficult life and for a long time, a lonely life. But there are rewards. When the way has gotten too tough, the difficulties too great, the Universe intercedes and eases my way. I was also blessed to not to be alone anymore. That is what you each must understand about your path as well as those you have been called to protect. Their lives are not their own just as mine was and is not. They were chosen and blessed to carry out the Universe's specific plan . None of their lives will be easy and they will each suffer greatly for their willingness to serve and to lead. Your responsibilities to them are much greater than security details. You are to be their helpmates, guardians and watchmen.

I do not know who will specifically be chosen but I knew this group would be called one day. My visions of prophecy started months before my final mission from Babylon 5. I knew that station and Tuzanor were connected in a manner no one would ever believe. Those of you from station security have probably seen and done more in the last two years than you ever imagined when you signed up for that job. And each of you served under Commander Sinclair and Captain Sheridan. Zack Allen, I know you are among this group. I have seen your face in what is to come many times. You have a gift. The ability to recognize the faithful. That is why the Vorlons turned to you and you did not fail. But you did that long before they instructed you. I know that you spent time gathering the faithful for no other reason than you felt compelled. THIS is what you were preparing for.

Mai'lenn, you did not have to gather the faithful because that is not your gift. Your strength of purpose is. Your commitment is. I have seen you as well. You have come along way since Ranger training. You will go much farther because you believed long ago. You did not stop and you assumed leadership when those who led you were not able to. THIS is what you were preparing to do. Each of you came to the Anla'Shok while Jeffery Sinclair was Entil'Zha. Are you all seeing and understanding how and when a circle is complete? How the Universe works to move people into place? How each of you have been moved into this place from Babylon 5. Every single one of you is Anla'Shok. It is written on each of your hearts and Tuzanor is your true home. But each of you has been called to be something different, something more than Anla'Shok.

This I saw and it is the reason you were all gathered here this evening. I spent two different lifetimes in this home so I know it quite well and I know you all are assembled just as I requested. The Vorlons are very good at delivering messages from the distant past. If the time is correct Delenn is Entil'Zha. Isil'Zha has arrived. I confess he was a surprise to me. I did not know when we stood together in another lifetime that we would one day stand together in a different manner. But the righteous have a way of sneaking up on you when you least expect them. And you know the others who stand beside him.

All of you are not there physically in the same place. But it does not matter because they are gathered as you all are. I requested that it be done in this manner because I wanted to impress upon each of you the fact that you are ONE. You have one purpose and one calling. Though you each have talents and skills that vary, you are still one."

"Open the box before you. I know my Anla'Shok have already removed their pins. Perhaps with a bit of fear and unsure why they were required to do so but they would not turn away from it." They all laugh because they know he's got them on that point.

"This is the Isil'Zha stone just as the one in a traditional Ranger pin. The Vorlons brought the solution that is in the bowl to your right to me 1,000 years ago. It is the holiest of all waters. Place the stone in the bowl using the tongs in front of you and cover it completely. Then place it in the other bowls so that the stone is bathed in both humans and Minbari blood. You are rejoining separated halves of the soul. No matter where you are in the universe. When you die, the stone will turn black and the pin will shed tears of blood and water."

They do so and the others are paying close attention to the Rangers because they sense they've done this before and don't want to mess up. The Anla'Shok see this and are sure to take their time so that those from station security can feel comfortable with what they are doing.

"Once you have finished, fasten the stone inside the broach. It is similar to the traditional Ranger pin but as I said, each of you are charged with something beyond that. Your service is as one body in protection of the 10 who you will one day realize are a representation of one. That is why your broach is something beyond that of the others."

He stopped talking and two of the Vorlons turned to the group and said, "Follow." Then headed out of the room. Each of the 30 people standing at the table actually turned to look at the 3D hologram of Valen but he nodded as if it were live and real time. "Follow them."

That was definitely creepy until they considered everythng else in their lives so they shrugged and followed. Once they reached the main room two Workers popped out from nowhere and everyone was concerned considering the Vorlons standing there and the MC in the other room. The Workers said nothing except to motion for the women to follow one of them and the men to follow another. And that's when they got their other surprise. Nothing was every going to be as big as Valen. Now that they saw him and understood the magnitude of that truth, coupled with every amazing thing they have seen of Captain Sheridan, nope they wouldn't be surprised by anything again. It did not take long once they were in the room to understand that they were to change into their new uniforms. Minbari fabric is very soft and deceptively sturdy. They knew these would hold up for a long time.

None of them missed the symmetry or symbolism of the uniforms either. They were done in a style of similar to those on the station command staff. On the left shoulder their crest was embroidered. It was the design of the Anla'Shok separated by a bridge with their emblem in the middle. Black was the primary color with gray accents and the dress cloak was as intricately designed as they had ever seen with what appeared to be a leather type grey material with black and bronze rope braided into it. The robe was the same as the cloak but the trim ran around the collar, down the label and to the ankle length hem. The cuffs were also adorned. The pants were black but the tunic had grey trim. Each of them could not help but be amazed at the beauty of the uniform. They seemed too formal and too beautiful to be everyday uniforms but when they looked into the bag next to their spots they were certain it was because that is where their dress uniforms lay along with 9 additional everyday uniforms. Quickly, they dressed. Each of them were issued new denn'boks with their crest engraved on it as well as their purpose. The Rangers were surprised that each of them were also issued side arms. Those from security were not. They wouldn't be able to sign out weapons to the Rangers legally and this also told them clearly that their job was going to require the use of a fire PPG. Everything was there: shoes, belt, denn'bok holster, weapon holster and a few other surprises that caused raised eyebrows and shocked expressions.

After dressing they all reassembled in the room. That's when they noticed that the bowls had been cleared from their places and their pins were resting in the open jewelry boxes. They each moved back around the table feeling spiffy in their new uniforms and a bit less anxious than they were when they first entered. The Vorlon released the visual and Valen was among them again.

"Exchange broaches with the one next to you and pin each other." They do so a little nervously.

"You were each selected specifically by the Universe and I hope you each understand what that means. So I remind you this. Each are called according to their purpose in this life. The righteous answer the call. But the faithful fulfill their purpose. Be ye faithful Watchers of the One whom the Universe has Chosen as the architect of its plan and of those it blessed and annoited for a high calling. Remain steadfast, unmoveable and always abiding in the work you are called to do. Your labor will not be in vain. I welcome you to the future. You are Betla'Nal."

Then the iris closed and the projection was over. The door opened the Vorlons motioned for them to each pick up their candle and follow as they turned and exited the room. They were all pretty much still reeling from all that happened and all they had just seen. Some time later they'd get together and compare notes on having actually been sworn into service of their calling by Valen himself. The secrets they would keep! The Vorlons led them through the main room where some Workers were assembled to the side at the ready. The humans (station personnel and original Rangers) REALLY hoped they'd get to eat whatever they were smelling. The Minbari were more reserved but they weren't fooling them. They wanted to eat just as much as the others.

The Vorlons led them into the garden and they weren't disappointed because there was a huge banquet table set up. But they noticed that they were marched past it and they realized the ceremony wasn't over yet. They formed a circle in the area they were directed to stand and held onto their candles. To their utter amazement, the flame of each candle exploded and before each of them was a Light being instead. All of them were gathered up and bathed in the brightest light their observers had ever seen. The Workers were accustomed to not seeing certain things while attending to their duties but not one of them could pretend they did not see this. 30 Light beings floating above in a circle not 15 feet from them---with people inside!!! They did not know what any of this meant and they had no clue what they were seeing. Then the Light beings descended with the ones they had taken with them.

Once they returned to their spots, the Vorlons turned to them and said the most complete sentences anyone had ever heard one of them say.

"Summoned by the Universe. Consecrated in Light. Protect the Future and preserve the Light. You are Betla'Nal, Watchers."

Nothing escaped the Workers. They knew something was up when Entil'Zha gave those specific yet unusual directives. They worked at the training camp. They knew exactly what they'd seen from the Vorlons 5 months ago and they saw how the War Council members acted the week they arrived. Then this group showed up and they wondered who they were and why they did the things they did. When the Vorlons came to Mai'lenn and Zack they said nothing, just whispered amongst themselves. But while they were preparing for tonight they were all shocked to see these Vorlons in the house. No one knew how they got in. Now they understood that Entil'Zha may have given the directives but they did not come from her. Once they heard what the Vorlons said, that explained how they knew what to do for and with those 10. Wait til the others hear about this!!

Corwin wasn't sure what to think when White Star 22 jumped into orbit and said there was a secure message on board from Entil'Zha for his eyes only. He checked in with Murphy and Shaal Mayal because he felt that was a bit strange. Neither of them liked it so they went with him. The first thing they noticed was that the ship was not manned by any Anla'Shok and they each went on guard. Why Delenn would send him a message or a White Star out with only a skeleton crew of Workers on board was beyond suspect. The Workers weren't sure what was going on but they followed Entil'Zha's orders. Now these three looked like they wanted to throw them out of airlocks. They looked to Shaal Mayal and hoped she remembered that Minbari did not kill Minbari. Especially when they were just following orders! They pointed to the captain's quarters and said the message was in there. They had no idea what it was and did not check because they were instructed not to enter. After seeing the reaction of these three, they were all glad they did not. Each of them relaxed when they looked into the room and saw the Vorlon standing in the corner. As usual, the Vorlon opened the iris and displayed a projections of Delenn.

"Lt. Corwin, I am simply the messenger. These are not my orders but as Entil'Zha I have the authority and resources to facilitate the directives of another. I have been instructed to inform you to regather your people this evening. I suppose you know who the gathered refers to specifically. Perhaps those gathered in the past? I have made this ship available for you all and the only ones on board are the Workers who have come to assist. You need do nothing except bring yourselves, everything else will be attended to on your behalf. Once you all have left the ship it will depart immediately for Minbar."

And that was it. They looked at each other in confusion.

"You don't think anyone talked?"

"That does not seem likely."

"Yes, but they exposed themselves."

"And no one's said anything. Mai'lenn and Zack say everything's working out ok. For some reason, no one pitched a fit about their presence and Garibaldi and Cole are consulting with them."

"What's this all about?"

"I guess we won't know until we show up."

Then they look to the Vorlon for the tie breaker and definitive answer. He's feeling pretty generous and decides to help them out.

"Gather them."

That pretty much sealed it for each of them. "Ok." They left the ship not knowing what was in store for them that evening. Corwin and Murphy had the headache of moving many people around to cover shifts while they discreetly pulled out there people and hoped no one would notice. Shaal Mayal just knew that the temporary station Rangers would know something was up when she pulled all of the old ones and had them shuttle up to the newly arrived White Star. They still wanted to know what happened to the other Rangers. They all thought it was strange that they went off on some secret mission. They also thought it was strange that the entire War Council and command staff of the station was gone too. Didn't matter, they were happy to gather all the information that they could on those ambassadors and their aides. Nothing would slip by them and it did not. The three of them managed to perform their duties and work with their people without calling any attention to themselves. They liked it that way. They had no idea that was about to change.

By the time the ceremony ended, there wasn't a dry eye in the garden on White Star 22. They were also shocked and amazed at what they'd just learned. Why that secret was entrusted to them they knew they did not fully understand. But they were certain it was some way to prepare them for whatever was to come. Minbari were used to prophecy to guide them. When all of Valen's prophecies seemed to be completed, except for the arrival of Isil'Zha, station Rangers took comfort in Ivanova's gift to dream the future. Until they realized she was the Oracle and then they were all happy, right after they got over being amazed. She did not give them as much clearance as Valen but it was still warning. Except for Isil'Zha. They had months for that one but did not make the connection until he stood before them. Now they understood her dreams, wanderings and agitation before the secret mission, before Entil'Zha went away. She saw what was to come and what was to become of him. It made perfect sense.

David Corwin could not believe that Valen called his name. Never mind that Commander Sinclair had probably said it 100 times. VALEN said his name. In a message 1,000 years in the past! Yeah, they got it. They knew he was laying foundation with his words of balance, symmetry and truth. Lorien said that what Captain Sheridan builds will endure 1,000 years from now. They know the captain doesn't have any idea that he'll do that. Lorien made that clear too. But they do and they are eager to be of service. They know that when they return to the station others will want to know what's going on. The Anla'Shok will fear madness and some form of mutiny but what is to be is to be and they will not concern themselves. Corwin hopes he's got the right words to get this across to them.

"We know our purpose and what we were called to do. I suspect that the others at Tuzanor are experiencing the same thing as we are right about now. That does not matter. There is no need to explain to those who do not know. It is not for them to know or even to understand. We carry on as we have been. Know that our movements will have to be more discreet when watching others because we have been called to order publically. Now, let's head back down remembering all the things we learned here today and keep all the secrets a secret. Those working for Babylon 5 have the rest of the shifts off today because I didn't know what expect. The 10 of you who will remain hidden wait on board for another hour and then shuttle down and go about your business as if nothing has happened. Keep your pin on you at all times but concealed from view of others. We all know who you are and that is all that matters. Congregate in the privacy of your quarters and gossip about the amazing event we've just experienced. I know you all plan to do it anyway. Those of you assigned as station Rangers, speak to Shaal Mayal, but something tells me you guys are going back to work. She's a task master!"

More than a few groans followed that last point. Corwin had to duck but was a bit too slow and took a jab to the arm before she turned to the others,

"Each of you are fair game. You know they will attempt to use the most sophisticated methods to gather information. Be diligent and be silent. Consider this an exercise in advanced misdirection. You all have the rest of the day off as well. Cloister and talk amongst yourselves. We will probably stop by later just to see what you all have managed to come up with." Then she laughed and followed the others out.

Apparently, the Vorlons did not wish to be discreet about their connection to the Watchers because they filed out to the bay and prepared to board the shuttles headed for the station. Watchers glanced around wondering if they wanted a ride to one of the war ships in orbit so they looked to their 3 superiors. They just shrugged and walked to a shuttle. Somehow they weren't sure that people on the station were prepared to see 30 Vorlons march through the Zocolo but they figured they'd just sort of follow their lead. All of them are wondering if they really popped from the candle as the flame or if it was their mind playing a trick on them. Reading their minds, one of the Vorlons turned to the group, "You stand between the candle and the flame." That was something new. They understood the Vorlons were the flame, the Light but they had no idea what the candle represented. They looked at each other but shrugs were had all around. They'd figure it out one day. They were sure.

It did not take long for every person working, visiting, training or milling around the Anla'Shok headquarters at Tuzanor to get another shock of their lives and this time there were absolutely positive it would be the thing that did them all in. A few of the guards noticed that Zack, Mai'lenn nor anyone from their group were around. Marcus quickly noticed that Delenn had no reaction so he was certain she knew something. She didn't look the least bit guilty or uncomfortable so he knew she was simply in possession of information but was not the cause of the situation. Once the meeting broke up they went about their individual duties but they noticed an unusual amount of movement and scurrying around. That group doesn't get too caught up in being amazed at things since they're usually the ones causing the amazing to happen. Still they take a look to see what the fuss is all about.

Mai'lenn, Zack and 3 Vorlons leading 28 others into the building and through the camp to their quarters. All Tuzanor saw Zack and Mai'lenn talking with the Vorlons when the others were in the garden. That was a shock but they were certain they would get over it and adjust to seeing the same thing happen again. What they can't understand is the uniforms. They know that some of the humans and all of the Minbari in that group were Anla'Shok at least 24 hours ago. It wasn't something one just up and quit. They wanted to know what was going on. The Three sat silently in their quiet chamber watching over the security cameras after someone used to intercom to tell them that the group from Babylon 5 was back and that they should see what they looked like. Durhan turned to Turval. He knew there was something fishy going on back at the station. But when they both looked at Rathenn he was thoughtful and his expression clearly showed that he was turning over many things in his head trying to figure out just what he was seeing. Then he looked to Turval,

"What do you make of that?"

"I do not know who they are but I know what this means."

"Explain it for the rest of us."

"It is obvious that Mai'lenn has kept much secret from us since the Gathering. We saw them with the Vorlons while they set up security for the Council and were in complete control of everyone and everything. I believe this is the Vorlons' way of telling us to mind our business and leave them alone as they take care of their business."

Durhan turns that over and accepts that it makes sense,

"And what is there business?"

"Those 10. I think we are seeing a special and very specific group that was put together if not by the Vorlons then the message was sent through them. I think they are their specific protectors."

Rathenn can't argue with that and really does not wish to. His concern for them grows daily since he cannot find out what they are doing.

"They might be more than that. Who knows. But I agree with Turval. We must leave them alone and we must instruct the others to leave them alone as well."

The War Council takes their look, note the lavish uniforms that they all know are misdirecting in appearance because they are certain they are the pinnacle of functionality. Then they go back to what they were doing without any shock or comment.

Murphy's not concerned about them having to clear customs or produce proof of citizenship. He just really hopes that this parade through the station won't start some kind of stampede or panic. He didn't bother to concern himself wondering how they'd get off the station. They didn't need shuttles, he was positive of that. They just did that for their benefit. Corwin's wondering if they're going to want quarters. Really, there isn't enough room in the ambassadorial wing for all of them and he figures the methane breather section isn't equipped either. He knows that was obviously a rouse since they don't need that. One thing Corwin's happy about. The presence of all those Vorlons is distracting attention away from their uniforms. Sure, he knew it wouldn't last and the next time he was in C&C the gawkers would be popping in just like they did with Ivanova. Ask Corwin if he cared. Station Rangers wasted no time responding to the reports that a massive amount of Vorlons had come onto the station. They took up position to see this for themselves then decide whether to pursue. Imagine their surprise to see Shaal Mayal in the Vorlon procession along with Corwin, Murphy, others they did not know personally and ALL of the missing station Rangers. None of them could figure out why they were out of uniform. All of them intended to as soon as they had a chance.

The Vorlons parted company with the others in the middle of the station as they turned to the one they were walking with and said, "Go." Good enough for them and they didn't need to be told twice. They also didn't bother wondering where the Vorlons were going. If they wanted them to know, they would've told them. The Watchers found out later but that couldn't be helped.

None of the station Rangers asked anything. They did not think they should after seeing them with the Vorlons. They did not understand, but they still would not ask questions. That did not mean they could not observe and it did not take long at all the next day when the others were out and about. They saw the new pins. They were different than Ranger pins but they could still see where it was a part of the design on purpose. They also saw the crest on their shoulder. The emblem of the Anla'Shok with something more added to it. That was enough to really cause them to wonder about this group until they saw what was written beneath the emblem on the shoulder and they had no more questions about or for anyone in that group. They understood everything when they saw that the words were in ancient Minbari. Minbari Rangers couldn't read it any better than the humans could. But they knew what they were seeing. And all of them understood the last two words.

"Betla'Nal, Watchers."

Corwin knew it would happen the moment he stepped into C&C the next morning. He almost laughed out loud as he remembered the day Ivanova revealed herself as Anla'Shok. Strange things happen on this station but not so strange that the crew doesn't act predictable at times. They followed the same pattern and stared. Many dropped by to check the same duty roster they did the day they found out about her. He said nothing. He'd had a year to perfect the death glare though he used it sparingly for effect. Susan Ivanova might be willing to back it up every time but David Corwin really did not want to have to hire any new staff. He had enough trust and security issues as it was. All of those who had not taken any of Talia, Lennier and Kailenn's classes were confused. They figured it had something to do with the Rangers by the style of dress and the broach. Then they assumed it was to be the Ranger uniform for those who worked on the station. Until they saw some Minbari (always a dead give away) dressed the same and weren't sure what was going on. One thing Corwin knew, they wouldn't dare ask. And they did not. Still, they were dying to know.

Those at Tuzanor did not stop until they reached the barracks in one of the secondary complexes where they were assigned. Zack liked both the location and the set up because it allowed them to all meet easily and quietly since no one else was there. They definitely needed to meet. The reason for their Vorlon escort on that parade route wasn't lost on any of them. Fine, they'd deal. They were glad for it because they were certain that it would put an end to any questions others might raise. They decided it was time to get proactive in their duties. Valen was right, they were more than simple security though protection was a significant part of their job. They knew they were in Tuzanor for a reason. Zack and Mai'lenn also knew of the threat to Entil'Zha and had to find out what he was up to. They had a plan and put it into motion. 10 would take off immediately in one of the specially equipped White Stars Mai'lenn was going to Durhan to request in search of what they were looking for. Or whom they were looking for. Five 2 person teams would slip away quietly and cover places on Minbar gathering what information they could. They would bypass Tuzanor and go directly to Yedor and other larger cities to begin their search. From there, they would work their way around the entire Federation if they had to. 10 remained at the camp. This was not the optimal situation for Mai'lenn or Zack. That left one Watcher per Council member and no one else to observe those around them. They considered calling for re-enforcement but thought they should wait at least a week to see how things worked out first. They did not want Corwin at a disadvantage by being short staffed.

They left under the cover of darkness but that didn't mask their absence. People knew more than ½ of them headed out somewhere and nobody thought it was back to Babylon 5. They were concerned and suspicious as to exactly what that group was up to but they did not ask. Marcus and Michael knew they'd have to have a talk With Zack and Mai'lenn at some point. Both knew what they were up to and neither could blame them. One thing they both agreed on, they knew who was going to be roped into serving on some of those new ships when they went after the Warriors and Earth.

Tafali was growing more and more concerned. For the past few months Vir was much quieter. He could mark the change some time after Selene informed them of her latest mission. He spent more time with Ari'ahn but it was different. They left the headquarters, some times the grounds, for hours at a time. He laid down the law to the others that Vir was never to be monitored and they were to give him space and leave him alone. He wasn't an absentee leader in the least. He came up with the strategy for gathering the information they would need to begin attacking the Ministry of Defense. Londo knew of their group and would figure they would want to get rid of all the Shadow tech. Their only real problem is if Londo decided he wanted to keep it. Londo was named Prime Minister shortly after the death of Cartagia. Somehow he managed to take all the credit for driving the Shadows from the Great Centauri Republic but Vir didn't care. And, just as he suspected, Londo wanted his trusted aide by his side at the palace. Vir decided it was time to take a powder permanently and just didn't answer the summons. That's when Londo got suspicious and started checking. Londo Mollari might make some stupid alliances in the name of greed and increasing his political standing but he was a very smart man.

It did not take him long to discover that Vir was no where to be found and had not been seen on Minbar in a year! That's when he started putting all the pieces together and realized Vir was a part of G'Kar's escape. That, well he could accept that and meter out some strong words as punishment considering Vir's soft heart. When he learned that Narns were continuing to die on a massive scale even after Cartagia's death he decided to step in and prevent that. He did not wish for them to be killed. If the Narns hadn't declared war he wouldn't have cared if they remained free since they were such a headache anyway. Enslaving them wasn't the best use of resources. But, he did not wish for retaliation against the Republic once they were free and he knew that was more than a possibility.

So, that is the only reason he decided they should not be freed. Still, what he assumed was Cartagia's mass executions would end under his leadership. But then he discovered they were not being killed but freed. He quietly tracked back the very first execution and saw that several thousand Narns were killed in the most efficient manner ever month for the last two years but no one seemed to know where the bodies were and no one actually committed the executions! He did not like what he was thinking but he was certain this time that it was Vir. Then he remembered that White Star leading the "religious group of Centauri" driving out the Shadows. He never wondered why the warning was sent to him and when he thought about the note, the author had to have known him well. Known what he would do. Londo was absolutely convinced that the Minbari had gotten a hold of Vir and twisted his mind until he thought like they did. There could be no other explanation. Refa said they were a group like the Anla'Shok. That set off warning bells in his head the instant he heard that but he was too engrossed in trying to save his people from the immediate threat of Cartagia. For the last 5 months he was busy trying to clean up that fool's mess and enjoy the power he held.

On some level, Londo was willing to let it all go. Helping Narns escape was against the interests of the Centauri but it did not really hurt the Republic. Driving out the Shadows was in the interest of the Centauri and they did exactly what they said they'd do so that was a very big plus in their favor. Unfortunately, Londo suspected they wouldn't go back to chanting and praying. He thought they would want to be a part of Centauri society like the Rangers and that would go against Centauri interests. He didn't know any of the principles or beliefs of this group but he was certain they would have no desire to help the Republic expand. For that reason alone, Londo Mollari decided they had to go.

Many of the artifacts Vir ordered found and preserved were in pretty good shape. They did not know what all of them were or even what all of them said. It had been 3,000 years since the last of the Order of Z'al fled death at the hands of the one who would proclaim himself Centauri's first emperor. Others studying the records did not understand what they were seeing. The language was too foreign and could not be translated no matter which programs they used. What they did understand and could read was so inspiring and heart warming they felt a genuine since of pride and their commitment grew. Now all they had to do was figure out the rest. Vir read what was written. He researched and then went back to his time with Ari'ahn. He took long walks and sat alone for hours. Tafali said nothing because he understood that Vir was trying to assimilate information and deal with many things.

Londo finally sent word to the Rangers at Tuzanor. He asked them to please let Vir Cotto know that the Centauri Republic is interested in meeting with him to discuss his views on various foreign and domestic policies as well as his opinion on the direction the Republic should take in this new era. They'd also like to discuss his...novel and progressive ideas for interspecies social and cultural relations. Shanmal wasn't fooled by that and passed the word to the War Council. Selene thought hard for a few moments then said,

"I'll take the message to him personally." They wondered what was really going on by her expression and demeanor but did not inquire. G'Kar looked at her, he knew she she felt the weight of her responsibility. Delenn's ship had already been fitted with the defense shield so she told them to take off on White Star 2 and to travel cloaked considering the circumstances. They were also instructed to land on the planet. Everyone assumed she and Marcus were a team now and would go off together. Selene could tell what they were wondering but she could not address that now. They would have to get in and out quickly but she knew she had to be the one to tell him. As the meeting ended Marcus stood up and turned to Selene,

"Come on D'Artangan."

"After you Athos."

Then they walked out of the room. Everyone looked at each other. Fannol understood the reference since Susan gave him a copy of the Three Musketeers when she was rummaging through his library during Ranger training. What he didn't understand was why they were using it. The captain figured those two spent way too much time together on their last mission. Michael just thought they were strange. Susan had to ask,

"What was that?"

Michael thought about it, "I don't know. Last time he was Running Feather and she was Little Moccasin." That wasn't exactly an answer so she skipped it. The captain and Delenn smiled,

"Well, when they were trying to figure out how to sneak my parents' bed into the building she was Lucy and he was Ethel."

Garibaldi thought about it then laughed. "I get it." That was all he could manage and left the room. G'Kar decided he'd find out later. It had already been a strange week.

Marcus met with Michael and Mai'lenn to make sure they were clear that if Delenn needed to travel she would do it on White Star Prime in their absence. He was clear that even within the Federation, it would be under full escort. She got it. Mai'lenn was more than on top of coordinating Delenn's security. Rangers understood that she was still in charge when Cole was gone and that when it came to Cole's protection she and Zack were always in charge.

So on top of things she added one of the Watchers to the crew of White Star 2 without Selene or Marcus knowing. If they did not happen to see him during the trip that was fine. If they noticed him, they could not turn around and bring him back. Both of them wanted more information about Z'al and just what was going on when it came to the specifics of watching Selene. She seemed to conceal a great deal from her people when it came to the way she was being moved by the Universe so they knew there was a specific reason for that. They also sensed that she reported noting to them about her activities on the War Council and were certain none of them knew she was on Minbar. Happy it meant she was keeping the secrets of the others, they still had to find a way to protect her secrets as well. Both of them were certain Z'al did not know the things she could do.

When White Star 2 landed on the planet, the others were more prepared. Still on guard just in case considering all that they knew was happening, they relaxed when the ship materialized. Then they became tense when they considered Talia might have returned. None of them wanted to deal With her again. They were all surprised to see Selene and Marcus Cole step off. Telepaths began to conspicuously find something to do somewhere else. Tafali laughed at that but was concerned about the timing of her arrival and why they were here. He hoped she came to brief them but knew that wasn't the case at all. Selene's expression was not a good sign and Cole's presence wasn't either. Then he saw them both do a double take as they noticed a Minbari male dressed in an unfamiliar uniform step off behind them. It was obvious that neither of them knew he was on the ship and not simply surprised that he was adding himself to the landing party. That made many people go on alert but when they saw how Selene and Cole reacted, they were confused but less guarded.

"What are you doing here?"

"Completing my assignment."

"What's your assignment?"

"To watch the two of you."

Neither knew what to say so they shrugged and walked off. The Watcher followed.

Everyone was glad to see Selene. This was her first time at headquarters and her first time back to the Republic in over a year. Those present at the Gathering watched her closely but covertly. Tafali came out to greet them both.

"Welcome home stranger. We thought we'd never see you again."

"Ha. For you its only been a few of months. Tafali, this is Marcus Cole."

"Nice to meet you. I assumed your identity when I noticed a large group of telepaths all seemed to find a reason to disappear quickly."

Marcus wasn't sure what to say but Selene just threw back her head and laughed. "Your reputation always seems to precede you!"

"Whatever." But he couldn't help smiling. Then Selene turned to Tafali.

"Where's Vir?"

"Something up?" He really didn't want to answer the question unless he had to. Marcus said enough to prove he had to.

"Londo Mollari sent us a message for Vir."

"Come on into the office. I'll go get him."

Selene is very quiet and Marcus can tell something is off. Something definitely does not feel right to him at all. Both of them have their backs to the door as they are looking out a window into the garden below. Their tone is full of resignation and sadness as they speak without turning to look at one another. Neither heard Tafali and Vir enter the room.

"He knows."

"Vir? I think he knows something he doesn't want to know."

"You're right. Vir knows a great deal. But, I meant he already knows what we've come to say."

"Marcus, are you clairvoyant now or do you know me that well?"

"Vir, its been a while. Good to see you. No, I'm no mystic. But I get the sense you are when it comes to Londo."

"Yes, I've had plenty of practice. So what does he have to say for himself and how did you two come by the message?"

Selene jumps in because she feels its her responsibility to misrepresent.

"He started putting pieces together because he contacted the Anla'Shok at Tuzanor when he couldn't find his trusted aide. Shanmal got wind of the message and made sure I got it. That's why we've come."

Tafali's listening and he knows that is the truth but his gut says she left out something or didn't exactly give all the details.

"And the message?"

She told him and Tafali balanced. That meant he knew everything.

"Alright. I expected something like that." Then he was quiet for a few minutes thinking about what had to be done.

Tafali and Selene knew Vir could sit like that for awhile as he worked through different scenarios. They also knew he had so many different projects and plans that he needed the time to see how his decisions would affect them. Marcus took his lead from them but walked around the room to give himself something to do. He spotted objects in a display case and thought it was sort of like museum artifacts or something. He strolled by glancing at a few items without paying much attention until something caught his eye and he stopped in his tracks and backed up. Tafali never misses anything and he didn't miss that. Nor did he miss the fact that Cole must have sent Selene some kind of telepathic message by the way her head snapped up and she looked in his direction. Then she eased out of her seat and walked over to him. Selene hadn't seen any of these things. She left for Babylon 5 before Vir organized a team to go out and dig for them. The things in that case were the mystery none of them could solve no matter how much research they did. No matter where they looked, they could not figure out what they were seeing or translate them. It was obvious by the way Selene's back stiffened when she looked at whatever Cole was mentally directing her attention to that she recognized it as well.

Tafali had to hand it to them, they were good. If he wasn't on a crusade to unravel the mystery of Selene he would have missed both of their actions and reactions. But since he was determined not to let this opportunity for first hand information gathering slip through his fingers he was on the lookout for everything. Neither made a sound or false step as they continued nonchalantly looking at other objects in the case. They didn't make eye contact and he suspected they didn't communicate telepathically either. After a few minutes she returned to her seat and Marcus went back to leaning against the wall casually. Tafali wasn't sure what he just learned but he was absolutely positive he just learned something. He had more confirmation of something. What he desperately wanted to scream was how did they recognize something that was buried underneath the ruins of a temple on Centauri Prime for the last 3,000 years just by glancing at it when none of them could find anything after months of research. He didn't but he really wanted to. Just when he was asking himself why he couldn't and was strongly considering going for it Vir turned to Selene,

"Let's take a walk."

She didn't say anything and didn't look back at Marcus or Tafali as she got up and walked out of the room. Tafali wondered if he could pry any direct information from the Anla'Shok poster child in the corner. He didn't think so but figured he'd give it a shot.

"While they're busy, want to take a look around? We've got plenty of other pieces of history around here."

Marcus just looked at him for a minute and Tafali knew he was getting the twice over. He also knew Cole knew he knew something was up. Shrugging his shoulders carelessly,

"Sure, why not?"

[You don't fool me Marcus Cole. I just have no idea what you know!]

The others are now convinced that every Minbari, Ranger or human connected to them in that strange and secret way they have knows every Vorlon. Or that Ari'ahn at least knows all of them. The Minbari who followed Selene and Cole from the ship didn't enter the office. They couldn't tell what his job was because he didn't seem to be a guard or he would be inside with them like the ones who were here last time. All he seemed to do was stroll around watching different things and people like he was bored looking for something to occupy his attention. Then Ari'ahn walked up to him and they started---talking---everybody guessed because no one happened to be close enough to hear. Then they went off somewhere and chatted as Tafali and Cole came out of the office. Tafali caught the tail end of that interaction and wondered if Ari'ahn was the most social Vorlon in existence.

Marcus and Tafali chatted extensively about nothing. Tafali had to wonder if the Minbari or Anla'Shok taught classes in this art form because Cole was a pro. They talked about everything trivial except the weather as if they were the most important subjects in existence. As Tafali led him to some of the other display cases Z'al were on hand and tucked away in security watching Marcus Cole, Super Ranger, to learn something about him. They still wanted answers about that group and why they all went through the gateway. Selene was busy with Vir and knew they probably wouldn't be able to get her alone so they contented themselves with him. Marcus was absolutely certain his movements were not only being observed but monitored closely and recorded. He was determined to give them nothing. He got around the Anla'Shok when he needed to, he could get around them.

Marcus knew it would seem strange if he did not comment on one or two of the pieces or at least ask questions about them. Rangers were notorious for gathering information, they'd be suspicious if he didn't. Actually, Marcus was absolutely positive that Tafali was more than suspicious of him, and specifically of Selene. He's pretty sure Tafali doesn't know anything but is doing his own research into the matter. Marcus had some suspicions about Z'al the moment he saw her uniform and learned she wasn't a Ranger. Now he's got more information to go on even though he has no clue where its going.

Selene was silent. Whatever Vir was working through or up to, she would wait.

"You've done good work Selene. Everything I asked of you, you did well. I could not find fault in any of your actions if I tried. I haven't bothered and won't."

She wasn't sure where this was going but she's got the feeling that Vir's in trouble because he's started learning things he doesn't know what to do with. She has no idea what those things are but she knows the signs. She's seen them in herself. With all the changes in her, she understands. And when she looks at Vir she can tell he is a changed man.

"Londo won't stop. His message is clear in many respects. He knows my part in everything and he might have let that go for personal reasons but there's no way he can do that now and continue expanding the Republic. I'm sure he's guessed that Z'al won't fit nicely into those plans or be eager to assist him. He doesn't know our name, that is a good thing. He doesn't even know where we are and it will take him forever to find us. But we aren't going to stay locked away here. We're going after the Ministry of Defense. We have to get rid of all the Shadow tech. Its taken time but we've made some headway in the last few months. We can't make a frontal assault against them. That's an open act of treason and we'd get no support from the public. Not that I care about that. But it would make it harder for the message to get out.

That's where Londo will have a fit. We're going to put the truth out there. All of it. Z'al's history and what really happened 3,000 years ago. It doesn't matter if the people won't accept it or even if they're interested in hearing it, we have a responsibility to tell the truth. You know a little something about that don't you? A little birdie told me you serve the truth."

Then he laughed. When he saw the nervousness and slight confusion on her face he laughed harder. "Lighten up Selene. It was a joke. The truth, but a joke."

She laughed at herself and at him. "Yeah, I guess you did hear that somewhere."

"Selene, you've got a lot of hard work ahead of you, just as we do. But, your place is somewhere else."

She just stared at him. [He couldn't possibly be kicking me out?]

"Vir, I know I couldn't report on the missions or what happened at the Gathering but I explained that I was instructed not to. That doesn't mean that I'm not loyal to Z'al or that I don't believe. I..."

"Selene, slow down. I'm not kicking you out. I couldn't do that if I wanted. Its not my place to choose the faithful. As I said, you have done well. But we all serve in many different ways. For some reason, the Universe is moving you. Has moved you into various places. Your entire life was probably preparation for the life you're going to lead. Don't ask me what that is, I haven't a clue. Yes, you are Z'al and you are Centauri but you didn't grow up in the Republic. The longest you've ever spent here was during training until you left for your first mission. 24 years versus a few months."

"What are you saying?"

"The humans have a saying from one of their religious texts, the Bible. 'Behold, I send you out as sheep amongst the wolves.' Nothing so dramatic as that and I'd hardly classify the War Council as wolves---though some of our members are still not convinced about Marcus. I'm sending you out to do what you were called to do. I suspect it is a calling and a purpose beyond any mission I could possibly assign you."

Selene is in tears at this point. She has no words and can merely listen to what he says as her heart breaks a little.

"Don't start Selene. You'll ruin your tough girl image. No wonder you and Marcus get along." Then he chuckled. "Seriously, don't think this means you still won't have responsibilities at the station. Truladi does good work but he isn't as colorful as you are in your reports. We can't leave the Narns in jeopardy after starting to free them. Londo is bound to try to flush them out. Its up to G'Kar, you and all the others on Babylon 5 to make sure to get the word out. When you return from your secret mission that is." Then he gave her a sly smile. Vir was really starting to enjoy picking on her. He'd miss that.

"Now consider today a special day. I have several things for you to take back with you."

"You're giving me presents?"

"No, I am making you the guardian and keeper of certain things. And, I am giving you some things that you will need in the future. Now is not the time. I read an Earth story about Pandora in Greek mythology. The gods gave her a box and told her not to open it. Unfortunately, curiosity got the better of her and she did. But, she let out all the evils into their word: greed, jealousy, anger, pain, hate, despair. Get the point? Finally she was able to get the lid closed after realizing what she'd done. The only thing left in the box was hope. And that is supposedly the only reason humans continue to survive and over come their tragedies. Because they have hope. I've seen humans do amazing things. Things that make no sense. They build and rebuild because they have hope that one day it'll work. Centauri would call that stupidity but we're still trying to reclaim the glory days so what does that say to you?

My point is, do not be Pandora. Do not let curiosity get the better of you and start trying to peek at these things. It isn't time. There is a time and a season for all things Selene. In this respect, the time has not come. Now let's go get your loot. Also, there's a trunk load of uniforms, a couple of Ket'las, pins. All the things a good little Z'al member needs. I think its time you wore the Centauri one. I think you're in company not to be harmed. I suspect our members on Babylon 5 won't be exposed during your absence.

And, there's something for G'Kar. This is for his eyes only and you aren't to peek at it either. You've been around Marcus too long so I know you've picked up his obsession with information gathering. Oh, and while I'm having the others bring out your things, go into my office. Those pieces in the display case are a mystery to us. No matter what, we just can't figure out what they are. You have access to some different resources than we do. Take a look at them and grab whichever one you want. That's your assignment. Figure out what it is and then make sure you write up a full report to go with it. Don't try to send it to us, that wouldn't be safe. Wait until I contact you with instructions on how to get it to me."

She knew what he was doing. Once they had everything Vir and Tafali walked Selene and Cole back to the ship. Nosey Anla'Shok were watching everything outside the ship and made their way to grab the things and carry them on board. The Watcher saw all he needed and went on board. Marcus wasn't sure what was playing out but knew it was serious so he shook hands with Tafali and Vir then left the three of them. Tafali gave her a hug, told her to take care of herself and that she should call home more often then walked off. Selene held on to Vir for dear life. Those on board White Star 2 watched carefully and were moved by what they suspected was happening. Those inside the headquarters watched not so discreetly from a distance through windows and over the security monitors. Finally Vir disengaged himself,

"Go Selene. Walk the path the Universe laid before you."

"Z'al guide your way."

Then she turned and ran up the stairs and into the ship. Vir turned and did not look back as the defense shield was activated and ship vanished from view. He felt the breeze and tree limbs sway on his back as he walked toward Ari'ahn and they went off somewhere together. Tafali didn't think he'd ever see Selene again and he thought that whatever Ari'ahn was preparing Vir for was going to be bad. So he decided to prepare everyone else. They were going to train, work and fight.

Selene ran straight to the garden. Strange how Anla'Shok seem to be prepared for things like that when they serve on ships frequented by members of the War Council. Someone was standing guard at the door to open it on her arrival. Marcus could feel a major shift. He knew something was happening. He ordered them to set a different course to everyone's astonishment and then left the bridge as soon as he could. Not soon enough for them not to catch the first faint edges of light flickering around him so they knew what was coming. They said nothing. They'd seen it before but hoped he got where they knew he was headed quickly so that no one else would. There was no time to order the corridors cleared so two of them followed to inform others that they actually did not see anything should they happen to see something. It did not make their job of containing the spread of information easy if he insisted on parading around the ship in full view of others!

None of this was lost on the Watcher and he was about to intervene on Cole's behalf when he noticed the actions of the two following him. It was obvious that they were trying to keep his secret though the Universe seemed determined to expose him. This was definitely something to take careful note of. Now he understood that at least the bridge crew of White Star 2 knew. That made sense, it was his ship. He wondered about Selene since she spent so much time on board before their mission. After seeing that they followed Cole to the chapel, opened the door and then took up guard position outside he was assured they were in full containment mode. When he headed to the garden he saw that the entrance was blocked. "Fine, it makes my job easier." Then he decided to head to the bridge and ask their destination and ETA.

"Are you certain?"

Sergi rolled his eyes and did a slight head move before answering, "Yes. My ears work perfectly and I know how to plot a course. ETA 9 hours. We're taking the scenic route." He added that last part in case there was some question as to his piloting skills or ability to make better time by taking a more direct course.

Tannier said nothing in response but considered that all pilots, human or Minbari, seem a bit too sensitive about their job.

Na'Thal wasn't going to apologize for his actions if he did not have to. He really hoped he would not have to. Personally, he felt that he was not only doing a service but that he had a responsibility. After a few minutes discussion with those of like mind, they convinced each other that it was what G'Kar would have wanted if he hadn't been such a modest man. They were satisfied with their reasoning so during the second evening of their arrival on Babylon 5 Na'Thal set out recording G'Kar's nightly talks and lessons to them. He was very impressed with the quality of the recording. The others assured him that this was really best because G'Kar was more relaxed in this atmosphere and not knowing he was being recorded was actually a benefit. Every freed Narn deserved to hear these words, not just them.

All of them deserved the chance to hear from the last of the Kha'Ri. They were preserving history! Besides, if he were made aware of the situation somehow, G'Quon himself would approve. Of that they were absolutely certain. Now all they had to do was get the recordings to the others. It took some time because they were not sure Selene would do it. She really was too attached to following all of G'Kar's directives to the letter. They thought she might feel compelled to discuss it with him. Not that they were doing anything wrong, it was a service! No, he was just too modest. Once the other Z'al members came on board, they knew they had found their way. It really didn't take much to convince them to send the copies out to those at the other relocation centers. Truladi eagerly agreed. He couldn't get enough of listening to G'Kar and since he missed the first two months of G'Kar's discussions, this gave him and the others a chance to catch up.

After Na'Thal and the others on board the Z'al ships sat transfixed watching the events of the Gathering take place, they were absolutely convinced they had done the right thing. When that creature starting speaking about Captain Sheridan as the Chosen and said it thought he was a myth, all of their minds turned back to the words of G'Quon that G'Kar shared with them from the sacred and secret teachings of the Kha'Ri. They believed it when they heard him but now they had actual proof of just whom they were seeing. It amazed them that G'Quon knew of his coming 1,000 years ago. The wisdom G'Kar shared from his own life experiences. The things he saw and heard in his cell on Centauri Prime. They knew divine work when they saw it and they knew a prophet when they heard one. They also recognized the blessed and faithful when they looked to G'Kar. They saw him step through that gateway and they knew whatever work he did, whatever challenge he took up on their behalf was something every Narn should understand.

Months later they felt a bit of trepidation, who wouldn't, at the sight of 30 Vorlons entering Grey 17. Yes, there were Vorlon war cruisers orbiting the station but none of them got the feeling the Vorlons stopped by to discuss strategies to employ in case of an attack. Even the Centauri came out to see this sight.

One of the Vorlons walked right up to Na'Thal and said, "Gather them."

He could do nothing but nod. The Narns of Grey 17 watched silently, rooted in their spots as the Vorlons paraded past them and into the chapel. Na'Thal was not so shocked that he didn't notice 100 pair of beady eyes looking in his direction. As if he invited the Vorlons! There wasn't much else he could do. He turned and left their section of the station to call the rest who worked in station security. They didn't know what he wanted to show them but from his demeanor and that something undefinable about him they knew to come without question. Once he returned with that group of 30, he turned to the others who were still milling about but no where near the chapel doors and motioned for them to follow him. He wondered if they'd all hang back to see if he burst into flames once inside before moving but they didn't. They fell into step behind him and entered to find out whatever message they brought.

Truladi was just as amazed as the rest but knew whatever reason the Vorlons came was to be a secret among the Narns. He told his people to go about their business or simply go to their quarters and try not to think that whatever sign this brought was something bad. Selene wasn't here so he knew it fell to him to make the call. He was absolutely certain that this could not wait for a courier. He went to his quarters and contacted Vir.

When they told him that a call came in from Babylon 5, Tafali knew whatever was playing out was happening at once in various places. When Truladi said both he and the other should probably hear this message together his heart seized. After what he heard Selene and Cole saying in Vir's office when they didn't know they weren't alone and the actions Vir took after their private talk together he knew it was all connected even if he didn't know what was going on. Once they were both seated in front of the monitor they saw Truladi's expression and slight nervousness. They were not prepared for what came out of his mouth.

"30 of Ari'ahn's----friends? Just came into our section."

"What do you mean friends?"

"Uh, relatives? Co-workers? Friends? Those like him."

Vir and Tafali were speechless and really weren't sure what that meant. One or even two maybe but 30? What was going on?

"Where are they?"

"In the chapel."

"Ok, what are they doing and why did they drop by?" Tafali really doesn't want to have to pull out every piece of information after the day he's had.

"I don't know what they're doing in there. They just showed up. Don't ask how. One moment they weren't there and the next moment they were all in the corridor. They walked up to---one of our business associate's people and said for him to gather them."

That was a word neither Tafali nor Vir took lightly considering what they witnessed 5 months ago.

"Come again? The exact words."

"Yes. He walked up to him and said, "Gather them."

"Ok, then what happened?"

"Everyone, including us were shocked. They just marched into the chapel and waited. Then the one they spoke to left the section and went to get the others who were working or off duty. When he came back he motioned for the rest of them to follow him into the chapel. They were still pretty numb but they went. They're all in there now."

"Where are your people?" Vir finally recovers enough to ask a question.

"I dismissed everyone and told them to either go to their quarters and not automatically assume it was a bad sign or to take off if they felt like they needed to."

The two of them look to each other. Vir shrugs. He can't say he'd have ordered anything differently under the circumstances. Vir can see that Tafali isn't going to be of any help because he's gone into thinking mode.

"Alright. Thanks for the update. Make sure your people stay out of the way and don't try to pester any of them for information. If they were meant to know they would know."

Truladi is slightly relieved that he made the right call on both accounts and just nods. Then he ends the transmission.

Vir sat silently. He wasn't sure if he wanted to think on this just yet or if he'd prefer to hear what Tafali had to say. He was absolutely certain that after he got done rattling around the various pieces in his head he would have something to say. So, he figured he'd just sit back and wait. It didn't take long.

"Whatever is to come isn't here yet but it seems that all the players are being suited up."

"Suited up?"

"Yeah, I learned that term from Malcolm. Centauri don't have contact sports but humans seem to revel in any kind of recreation that requires one to subject his or her body to physical abuse and potential damage to the point that they need padding and special equipment to prevent permanent injury or death. Before a game everyone suits up into their protective gear."

"Strangely enough when you put it like that it actually makes some kind of sense in this situation."

That catches Tafali's attention,

"What kind of situation?"

"I'm not sure when it comes to the Narns. I can say that I think that perhaps the Vorlons are preparing them for whatever Londo is going to do to the Narns."

"Why do you say that?"

"Londo never really cared that they were free. He never particularly liked them and held a prejudice for them, but he was the only member of the Royal Court who didn't want to rush out and enslave them. He and G'Kar fought plenty over the years but in that last year I was with them on the station it was more form."

"Form? What does that mean?"

"They didn't seem to hate each other but they were used to arguing and making each other's lives miserable when they had a chance so they did it out of habit. G'Kar didn't want to kill Londo---though he didn't like him---and Londo didn't want G'Kar dead."

"And now?"

"He's probably still angry about the escape and that it ruined his plan. BUT he's had time to see everything that happened since and has to realize that his plan wouldn't have gotten rid of the Shadows. He didn't even know they were all over the Republic. So, if he'd gone back to the station, he would have bellowed and raged but he wouldn't have tried to have G'Kar killed. He's Prime Minister now, it's a different ball game. He's got the power and intends to keep it. No way is he going to free the Narns and return their home world and colonies. He's afraid they'll attack and that would ruin his plans for rebuilding the Republic in his image."

"Ok, that fits with everything you've said about him and everything that's played out so far but I still don't get the Vorlon connection."

"He now knows there are several hundred thousand Narns who have escaped. He doesn't know where they are but he knows they are a threat to his leadership if they should decide to mount a resistance. If they should try to go on the attack. G'Kar's off limits. He knows Captain Sheridan and the rest of the Council would take any attempt on G'Kar as an attack on them. And, Shadow tech military ships or not, Londo Mollari isn't stupid enough to put the Republic in a position to face off with a Minbari Fleet. White Stars have police power over ALL the borders of members of the League of Non Aligned Worlds. He's not messing with trade or profits. But, every other Narn is fair game to him and I suspect he'll do everything except kill them off for real."

Tafali thinks about that for a few minutes.

"And you think he'll try to use them to get to you?"

"No. I think he'll try to use them to get to US. We're also a liability. We worked with Rangers to free them. He's got to know we're in it up to our eyes. He probably suspects that we've taken over the operation completely from the Rangers since it is our responsibility and we have the resources now to do it. He'd NEVER go after the Anla'Shok. We're on his most wanted list."

Tafali doesn't say it but he's pretty sure things are about to get real serious.

Half and hour before they reached the designated location, the bridge notified both Selene and Marcus that they would soon be at their specified coordinates. Both of them left the garden and chapel respectively and headed to the bridge. Marcus didn't take command and neither one really entered completely as he gave his orders. Then they left to prepare for their second secret mission of the day.

Marcus said nothing to Selene. He knew the minute she said she'd take the message to Vir that she would need distance and time when it was all over. After feeling the vibe at Z'al's headquarters he had a better understanding. But when they finished their mission, he needed the same. He knew she would come to him when she was ready. They checked in at the training camp and he went to his room to change then headed out to find Durhan. That was the only thing he could do at the moment to put himself back on an even keel.

"Sech Durhan, I hope I'm not disturbing you."

"Not at all, what can I do for you?" He was primed for information gathering. Cole never came to him.

"I know I'm not one of your students but I was wondering if you had some time today. Perhaps a lesson? Just this once."

Durhan knew they'd just returned from a mission on White Star 2 but had no idea where. He suspected that whatever happened was the only reason Cole approached him. Knowing him as he did, Durhan guessed he really needed to work through something and sparring was the only release he could think of. He saw the anguish and realized it must be something intense for him to voluntarily subject himself to a private lesson.

"Of course. Let's head over to my practice room now."

"Thank you for the honor." And those were the last words Marcus Cole uttered for the next 5 hours. Durhan was impressed. He'd seen Cole fight before and he knew the young man enjoyed it. He wasn't enjoying it so much now, but he was definitely very skilled.

Selene took a different route. She didn't say much and G'Kar could tell she was not ready to talk so he accepted the package and listened to her explanation of what Vir said. Then she left. Selene wasn't sure that she intended to go to the Temple of Valen but that's were her feet lead her so that's where she went. It didn't dawn on her that the place was empty. She just took a seat and started to pray. Everything that she carried inside her found its own release whether she wanted it to or not. The dam seemed to just burst and she couldn't hold back. She wasn't aware of the time when she headed out. Since she'd never been there before she had no idea that the entire city of Tuzanor had a town hall meeting and silently agreed that Isil'Zha should have the temple to himself for those few hours when he came but they could still happen to drop by as he was leaving to sit under his tree.

He was not surprised to see another person when he entered because he was usually so focused that Captain Sheridan wasn't aware the others were giving him his privacy there. He was surprised by the muffled sobbing he heard coming from one corner of the room and glanced over. When he realized that it was Selene he was momentarily torn between leaving so she could have privacy and going to her to see that she was alright. He felt compelled to go to her and motioned for Michael to have the other guards leave. Michael was certain no one else was there. A full security sweep was completed less than 5 minutes before Selene walked in and he was briefed so he knew she was there. He thought about it and nodded. The other guards were surprised but left at his directive.

Just to be certain they would both be safe inside, Michael stayed in the back and quietly pretended not to hear anything that was said. Mai'lenn and Zack had already briefed him on what Tannier witnessed both on Z'al's planet and on Marcus and Selene's actions on the bridge of White Star 2 both times. He knew whatever happened was serious though he had to agree with Marcus, she was definitely his kind of woman. Garibaldi couldn't believe what he saw on that recording. It also made him aware that he'd have to instruct Tathann to have jamming devices with him if a Watcher was ever in the captain's presence. He knew he'd have to show the captain that recording when they met later so he'd have some understanding of what those two were up to and going through. He checked. Marcus was with Durhan. It had to be bad.

"Selene?"

Her head shot up at the sound of her name. Embarrassed, she tried to pull herself together in an futile attempt at pretending she was alright.

"Captain. I'll get out of your way."

"You aren't in my way. And this is Valen's temple, not mine." He smiled warmly and she couldn't help responding. He motioned for permission to sit down and she nodded.

He wouldn't ask her any questions. He said nothing and simply sat next to her quietly.

After about ½ hour she reached over and took his hand as she shed silent tears.

The captain was very concerned. Michael was worried. He didn't miss anything that transpired between them. He saw her tears. Whatever this was about was more than their recent mission. Something else was going on.

An hour later Selene gave the captain his hand back hoping she hadn't squeezed the life out of it then stood.

"Thank you." She didn't wait for him to say anything as she turned and left.

Michael motioned for one of the guards to follow her because she didn't look like she was in any condition to be aware of potential danger.

The captain stayed for a several hours more then left without visiting his spot. He was certain that what she knew, whatever she was forced to keep silent was tied to more things than Vir and he was positive the Universe was moving her in a significant way.

Later that evening, Michael came to the captain's suite to make the report. Delenn was there and he hesitated for a moment but realized she would find out from the crew anyway so she might as well hear and see what really happened. He started by giving the Watcher's report that Zack gave him and then pulled out the data crystal.

"You two aren't going to believe it without proof so here it is. After they left Z'al's planet, they made another stop."

"Where did they go?" The captain wasn't thrilled about this news considering what he witnessed at the temple.

"Centauri Prime."

"Why would they go there?"

"I don't know Delenn and neither does the crew or Tannier. I'd say its best not to say anything to either of them and I get the sense that this is definitely something we should not try to intervene in. There's a lot more going on than we know and for some reason, the Universe keeps allowing Selene into situations where she gathers information and then is forced to keep it to herself."

That got their attention. Sheridan looked to Delenn and she nodded her head that Michael had a point without even having watched the recording. Michael placed the crystal into the wall monitor and all three tried to make sense of what they saw.

"Hold your position while we shuttle down. Keep sensors on an overlapping sweep on several different frequencies as you scan for Shadow tech. At the first sign of one of their ships move out of range. If we're not back in..." Then he turns to Selene for consultation.

"Four hours?" He thinks about that and nods his agreement.

"In four hours break orbit and head straight back to Minbar maximum speed. Do NOT attempt to contact us, maintain com silence. Do NOT attempt to come down to the planet. Last time I checked every shuttle in the bay was made from Vorlon tech and has White Star practically written all over them."

They have to protest and tactical jumps in at the same time as the First Officer.

"No discussion on this. You all have your orders."

There seemed to be a great deal of dissent about to rise up from all of them. El Watcher slipped onto the bridge right behind them and moved to the side in time to hear Marcus' orders. Selene is in no mood for Ranger heroics or Watcher knows best. She glances around and makes sure she pins him in her glare when she speaks.

"You heard Marcus. He is your superior. You all have your orders. This ship does not land on that planet. Those bay doors will remain closed with the exception of our shuttle leaving or re-entering."

Then she turns to tactical,

"You have a side arm?"

Confused but he answers, "Yes."

"Shoot any person who attempts to defy those orders. If I find out you did not, the next time we meet I will shoot you."

"Minbari do not kill Minbari!!!"

"Then maim them. Oh, and if you hadn't already figured it out, I'm Centauri so I have no problems aiming right between the eyes!"

Marcus couldn't help himself,

"Definitely my kind of woman."

Then he turns to her laughing,

"Come on Bonnie."

"After you Clyde."

With that, she followed him out. Everyone was staring open mouthed at each other. Tannier did not doubt her words and quietly took a seat at one of the vacant stations to wait their return. He was very glad he recorded that entire exchange. There was no way Mai'lenn or Zack would believe his report without it.

Delenn stares wide eyed in disbelief. The captain's jaw is almost on the floor. Both turn to Michael. He just shrugs, he already had his shock.

The first question she can think of to ask, "Who are Bonnie and Clyde?"

Being the super cop that he is, Michael Garibaldi knows all the infamous and notorious criminals of Earth's past.

"Early 20th century Earth. Two human career criminals. They were a couple who were pretty ruthless and very successful at breaking the law. But their specialty seemed to be armed robbery. They married some time in between major heists."

She's still numb from Selene's words and Marcus' obvious approval. What could they have been searching for on the planet to cause that reaction? She can't figure it out. The captain turns to Michael,

"I'm pretty sure they didn't go down there to steal the crown jewels. What do you think they're up to?"

"I don't know but I don't think it was a response to her visit to Z'al. I don't think the two things are connected in any way. They probably just used this trip to take care of both things. What do you think? You talked to her."

Delenn did not know this so the captain quickly fills her in. It did not make her feel any better. The only thing that eases her mind a bit is their use of the reference to the married couple. She likes that and hopes it is a sign of things to come.

"John, what are your thoughts?"

"I don't know. From your report that was a pretty intense goodbye. I don't think Vir expects to see her again. But it probably isn't the reason she and Marcus risked going to Centauri Prime."

Michael thought the same thing and has his suspicions but wants the captain's opinion,

"Ok, what are you not saying?"

"That she and Marcus were gone for 3 months. Yes, they gathered an extensive amount of information but has anyone noticed the holes in their story?"

"What do you mean?"

"We have no idea where my parents were or how long the 4 of them were together. None of them will talk and Selene is extremely protective of their privacy." Then he stops but Michael knows there's something else.

"What else?"

"I get that they probably needed time to get what they did on Earth and Mars but most of that information is what she got the first time. They just followed up and got the proof this time. You and G'Kar have been studying the data they brought back from the Lanep system, how long do you think they were there from that info?"

Not liking where this is going, "I don't know two weeks tops. Why?"

"They were gone for 3 months. Two weeks out in that system. That ship is lightening fast. It would take them 3 days to make the trip there and back to Babylon 5 and that's farther than from Earth. From what they reported, they couldn't have been on Mars and Earth combined for a month. Maybe that. Where were they for the other 6 weeks or so? I think that's where their problems lay."

Delenn sees the merits of his theory but isn't sure what that means. Then she thinks about something,

"We never asked them how they knew that the Wind Swords were planning something. Selene said that they hadn't found Shikiri yet, meaning they had already begun looking for him."

"I thought they mentioned that due to the deal with Earth."

"No, Michael. Marcus never answered Talia. He asked a question in response. The enemy of my enemy remember? They just presented the information in such a way that it was easy for us to assume they were connected."

"So your folks could have been with them for at least 6 weeks. Which would explain something your mother said." Then he drifts off thinking.

"What are you talking about? "

"You were too busy blushing about the vitamins and Delenn was too busy fussing over Marcus. How did she put it? Ah, always rushing into dangerous situations without taking time for a proper meal but she put a stop to it. Then she said that Selene never had to be forced into eating which is true if you guys have seen her put away food."

"So?"

"So, they were somewhere that she was able to play mother hen to both of them. It seems like it was for quite a while. And, they never said where they met Gideon. All they said was that they gave him a ride and dropped him off at Proxima 3."

Delenn is compelled to intervene slightly to keep them on track.

"Are either of you accusing them of something?" There's no contempt or malice in her tone. It's a simple question.

Before Sheridan can speak Michael answers,

"Yeah, the same thing you are. Misdirection at the very least and keeping some whopper secrets at most. What those secrets are, I haven't a clue. As for why, your guess is as good as mine but I'd say they aren't supposed to share."

She thinks on this quietly while the captain adds a new twist,

"What about this Book of G'Quon angle they mentioned?"

"Yes, I am very curious about that as well."

Michael exhales deeply and neither of them are reassured.

"I don't know. G'Kar literally has more knowledge stashed away in that head of his about all things great and small in the universe than anyone alive. And since the Gathering, its more small than great. But space, I don't think anyone knows space like he does."

"Your answer does not rise to the level of misdirection, Michael, but I believe evasion is a human practice."

"I know the Book of G'Quon. Not as well as G'Kar 'cause he has studied it for a lifetime and has it memorized word for word. But remember what he said at the first meeting after he returned? G'Quon wrote things specifically for the Kha'Ri that weren't included in the Book. That's how he knew about humans in the Anla'Shok. About the time rift in Sector 14. G'Quon was a prophet and a student of the Universe. Only the Kha'Ri know most of the things he wrote and G'Kar is the last of the Kha'Ri which means he's the only one who knows those things."

"What are you saying Michael? Or what are you accusing G'Kar of?"

"I think he's got a few secrets too. I think he knows something about the Wind Swords and I think he knows something about the Minbari. We're close. We spend a lot of time together and I know him, his facial expressions and the way he thinks. Even if I don't know everything that he's thinking. I told you something happened to him on Centauri Prime. What I didn't tell you is that he wasn't the least bit surprised when Marcus said that you'd returned from Z'ha'dum."

That makes Delenn and Sheridan just stare at him.

"What do you mean he wasn't surprised?"

"Exactly that. He just smiled and said that was as it should be. Or something close to that. Then he left us and spent the rest of the trip back alone. I'm telling you, he wasn't the least bit surprised."

Delenn isn't sure what that revelation means and she isn't sure how that fits into their suspicions about what Marcus and Selene are really up to. She turns to the captain but he is looking just as lost as she is,

"I have no idea what that means. What any of this means. Or how that is possible."

"Neither do I but if they were looking for Shikiri it explains his firm hand concerning my security before we left the station." Something does not fit into this scenario. She turns to Michael,

"How is Susan?"

[Translation is she having any dreams or nightmares?] "Other than the latest weirdness between her and Fannol, she's fine. They're working through the scouting reports from all the White Stars doing border patrols. She's also sifting through the reports coming from the Rangers on Babylon 5. Well, Talia is mostly working on that and giving her and Fannol updates. I get the feeling Talia's chaperoning."

"Yeah, I'm not sure what's going on or if I want to know but it all started after their reunion." Sheridan rolls his eyes and Delenn is gracious enough to attempt suppressing a smile. Michael Garibaldi? No such reserve. He laughs openly.

Then the captain thinks about the other angle,

"Stephen? He's still 'traveling'. What's that all about or should I ask?"

"I'm just happy that he's behaving to tell the truth. No tantrums about the guards and he seems to actually stay in line more with the Watchers. But considering they were hired by his boss, I guess he would." He chuckles and then gets serious.

"He's seen some interesting people since he arrived." That was cryptic enough to raise both of their interests.

"Who?"

"Your mother for one."

Delenn has no idea what to make of that and just stares at him blankly for a few moments.

"My mother? Why would he see her? Is it possible that he simply did as the rest of us and went to review the ancient texts?"

"Delenn, I think you'll agree that Stephen doesn't actually have to read those texts. I'm sure he knows more than what's written there even if he'll never tell us. No, he and your mother met for over 5 hours. The guards have no idea what they discussed because they couldn't get close enough to hear. But, it was definitely a two way conversation. She was talking just as much as he was."

This causes her much confusion and some emotions she isn't able to name. Still, there must be a very good reason and she will not take it as a bad sign of things to come for her mother. [He said they talked. That is different from when Stephen monitors someone.] She pulls herself together and out of those thoughts,

"Is there anyone else you can mention? I know we are not to know many things that Stephen knows or does."

He also knows this will be a sore subject for Delenn as she is forced to remember things past.

"Dukhat's brother."

She cannot see a pattern yet but she is determined to find it. Both men sense this. Sheridan remains silent and takes it all in.

"Jenimer's son."

She is up and pacing at this point. She knows there is a pattern and it is connected to whatever G'Kar knows and to what is to come. She just cannot tell what this information means. Jenimer was the one selected to lead the Grey Council after the10 year period of mourning for Dukhat. After Delenn declined to take her place and chose to stay on Babylon 5. He was the one to elevate Sinclair to Entil'Zha as his dying wish and final act. Even though Valen was the only one to hold that title. Sheridan can see those pretty wheels turning in her head and is getting a kick out of watching her piece together the scattered puzzle. He's certain she feels she doesn't have half the information but is determined to make progress. Michael catches his eye and they are both wise to remain silent while she works.

"Yes." She barely whispers that as she paces the floor and then stops. That's all she says. Then she gives Sheridan a quick chaste kiss on his right temple, nods to Michael and leaves.

Murphy is alarmed. None of the Narn members of security showed up for their shift. He can't contact them and when he checks the logs he finds that none of them have entered their quarters in 3 days. He tries to contact Na'Thal but gets no response. Acting quickly, and praying that Centauri assassins didn't find a way on the station, he grabs 4 of the undercover Watchers from security and heads to Grey 17. It's the only place he can think to look. He sent word to both Corwin and Shaal Mayal. She rounded up 5 Watchers and took off in pursuit. She orders station Rangers to spread out and begin searching. Corwin put a hold on incoming and departing ships until he got some word from either of them. Yeah, the ship captains were going to be mad. Ask Corwin if he cared.

It was a scary sight for those members of Z'al who happened to be in the main corridor of Grey 17 when 4 members of station security and 7 of those Rangers in the black uniforms rush in with weapons drawn. They each drew their Ket'las and turned around in the opposite direction to see what the new arrivals were looking at. When they didn't see anything and the Watchers realized Z'al wasn't preparing to attack them, everyone lowered their weapons. Truladi is the first to speak. If there is a threat they are ready to assist,

"What is the problem and how can we assist?"

Not the response any of them were expecting. Murphy sees that the place looks deserted. How could they not notice over 100 Narns missing?

"The Narn members of security didn't show up for their shifts. I can't reach Na'Thal. Do you know what happened to them?"

At those words, the 9 members of Z'al retract their Ket'las and put them away. None of the others can figure out why they're relieved. They stay on guard.

"They're in the chapel."

"The chapel? For the past 3 days?" As if that was an answer!

"Yes."

"Where's everyone else?"

"No, you misunderstand. All of them are in the chapel."

"Why?" This confuses everyone.

"That's where the Vorlons wanted to meet."

Light is starting to dawn on them and they each put away their side arms at once. Shaal Mayal looks to Murphy and he gives her the 'be my guest' look.

"Explain." Not exactly detailed and mostly a directive but he doesn't mind.

"30 Vorlons showed up and told Na'Thal to gather them. He went and got the members of security and when he returned everyone else followed him in the chapel. They've been in there for the past 3 days. Bathroom breaks not withstanding."

At those words everyone nods like they got it and it makes perfect sense. Murphy just says, "Ok." Then they all turn around and leave.

They thought the actions of the Vorlons and the Light fest in the chapel was strange. No, they couldn't understand why that group just accepted it like 30 Vorlons congregating in a mysteriously hidden section of a freaky station for 3 days with 100 Narns didn't surprise them in the least. He turned to the others and they all shrugged.

"It's a really weird Ranger-Minbari thing. They just accept stuff like that and move on."

"True, but 30 Vorlons? They acted like it was plausible and an everyday occurrence."

"Operative word, they're Rangers. It probably is."

"Does anyone know why their uniforms are different?"

"No, I think that falls under the heading of things we shouldn't concern ourselves with."

Murphy sent word to Corwin updating him on the situation. His only response, "Ok." Then he lifted the hold and Babylon Control was back in business.

All was relatively quiet at the Anla'Shok training camp. Many were curious about just what members of the War Council were up to but the Three were very clear they should not get in their way. They were all curious about those from the station. They saw their uniforms and both their pin and the patch on the sleeve. Betla'Nal, Watchers. Anla'Shok with a specific purpose. Yes, they saw the connection and they saw the Vorlons escorting them in. They also heard the report from the Workers who witnessed the amazing events at Valen's home. They knew that was connected to the actions of the Council and they all knew something serious was going on. They saw Captain Sheridan take long walks and have quiet talks with his father. They saw Susan spending time with Durhan in and out of the practice room. They weren't too concerned about Turval having Fannol on an relatively short leash considering his place there before he joined the Council. Talia and Rathenn resumed their time together as they spent on their last visit before the war ended. Dr. Franklin spent most of the day with Talenn and the other healers when he was around. And they saw Kailenn and Mrs. Sheridan spending quiet time together. They'd even decided to become accustomed to the presence or appearance of the occasional Vorlon and expected them to go to Mai'lenn or Zack. Today brought a new twist.

A single Vorlon passed through the main building and everyone watched to see its direction. They were all surprised when it headed for the guest quarters. The captain was with Rathenn and Entil'Zha was away from the camp. Ivanova was with Fannol and Talia meeting with a courier in one of the offices. Someone happened to be traveling in the same direction as the Vorlon—a coincidence of course and saw that it was headed to G'Kar. Michael Garibaldi, Mai'lenn and Zack picked up on that immediately. Word spread. No one knew how long the Vorlon would visit but they did not expect it to last that long. Three days! What could they possibly be doing in there? Michael briefed the others on the Council when G'Kar did not come out after the first day. One thing he, the captain and Delenn noticed was the impassive mask worn by Stephen---always expected and not a surprise. But Marcus and Selene were doing a pitiful job of pretending to be interested in this event. In actuality, they seemed like they were trying to ignore it. If those three hadn't been suspicious of their secret missions and projects they probably wouldn't have caught the covert look that passed between them just before they set about acting innocent and ignorant.

That was enough for Michael. He went back to his suite and whipped out his copy of the Book of G'Quon. He would find some answers. He did it before, though it took a considerable amount of time and effort, he would do it again. G'Kar wasn't being evasive. He just wasn't sharing and he was quiet. Too quiet and that meant more to Michael than anyone else. He knew when G'Kar was quiet like that he was going over various passages in either the Book or in the Kha'Ri text and that meant even more.

Finally, the Vorlon left G'Kar's suite, though he did not come out for a week and activated the do not disturb indicator on his door chime.

No one attempted to invade his privacy. When he did leave his suite, he did not go to the others, nor did he check in with Garibaldi. The others noticed that Michael was locked away in his quarters during that time as well but did not know what he was doing. Mai'lenn and Zack are always watchful but she knows that Zack has a special relationship with Michael Garibaldi so his concern is on a personal level as well. Shortly after that, they learn that Selene and Marcus have returned to their old ways of wandering at night. It does not escape those at the camp and they are concerned that something will occur as it did during the first week they all arrived. Marcus spent longer and longer periods walking the beautiful garden at the camp in the dead of night. Lennier finally had to report this to Delenn though he really did not wish to. But, he felt she should have the information early so that she could get used to it. He was surprised by her response. She seemed concerned but not overly concerned. That made him immediately suspicious and he decided to keep a closer eye on that situation as well as Delenn.

Marcus knew that he was going to be noticed soon. He couldn't call attention to himself and there were just too many Rangers around for them not to notice his midnight haunting of the garden. He opted to get as far away from the camp as he could. But he technically didn't go too far just in case he was needed. He did not wish to be out of reach so he shuttled up to White Star 2 and decided it was much more palatable. There were just too many things to deal with. He could not rest at night for more than a few hours but he knew that wasn't healthy. He could feel the change. He did not know what to do about many things. He and Selene still had not talked. He could not understand how they seemed to know to give each other space during these times without thinking about it. Somehow it was just natural. Then he thought about it and decided it wasn't a mystery.

They watched Marcus Cole for 3 nights walking around the garden. Then he seemed to sense that wasn't the most desirable spot if he wanted maintain his cover of not being affected by something. The 4th night he was as far away as he could get and Tannier had to wonder just what was driving him. He knew their lives would not be easy but it seemed to him that this group spent more time in agony with restless nights than any he'd ever encountered. Whatever it was, had to be big.

Selene went back to the grove at the same time Marcus took to the garden. Their timing wasn't lost on anyone. She didn't last as long as he did. After the second night she headed for the chapel and that is where she spent her nights. She hoped that no one would mind. She was not Anla'Shok and she was not Minbari but she knew they were very polite. She hoped they would say something to her or perhaps Delenn if she were in their way. Then she would slip away quietly and find another spot. She did not want to be monitored but she could not help it. She could feel things beginning to shift again. She couldn't blame it on the station anymore. Looking back, she liked having that option.

The others said nothing to them and made no comment amongst themselves. Zack informed Michael of Marcus' late night wanderings and that he had taken to shuttling up to White Star 2 after the first few nights. By the 6th restless night Marcus decided that being out of view of the others was an acceptable exchange for them finding out about his state of mind. He did not care and moved into his quarters on board the ship. He was certain one of the Watchers had already told Garibaldi. Fine, If he was needed, they would call.

Over the next couple of weeks, everyone noticed that Selene spent more hours of the day and night in the chapel than anywhere else. She was rarely in her quarters except to shower and change her clothes. They missed her in the cafeteria. Never had they seen anyone with her appreciation for food and her figure. She ate little now and even then she kept to herself and did not socialize. All those at the camp looked toward the others on the Council in fear that it was to be a group reaction but saw nothing except the business as usual. They did notice that each of the 8 did a very good job of pretending they did not notice Cole was missing or that Selene was spending ½ the day and all night in the chapel.

Lennier did not understand why Delenn did not go to Marcus. This was not like her. Nor did she check on Selene. That convinced him above all else that something very serious was about to happen. Susan saw and others turned to her in an effort to gage her reaction. Since they did not know how she knew what was to come they could not tell if she knew something or not. G'Kar never said a word about his 3 day vigil with the Vorlon and none of them commented.

The day finally came when the Council was to meet and all reports were due. That was the day many things happened all at once and the strangeness kept coming. The Three sat back and took it all in. They had to wonder how residents and staff at the station accepted these kinds of unusual events. Then they considered the oddity of that station and Turval said it probably went unnoticed. Well, this was the Anla'Shok training camp and headquarters at Tuzanor so they noticed when 50 Narns and 10 Watchers arrived. The Watchers were also a surprise because it was immediately apparent to everyone that this group was NOT part of those who left weeks ago. Now all of Tuzanor wondered just how many there were. The Watchers went to Mai'lenn and Zack and were led to their barracks. They obviously weren't expected and had a report of some kind to make. Zack took careful note of the way the Narns were dressed but was not surprised. He'd gotten Murphy's report the same day they learned the Vorlons gathered them. That was why he and Mai'lenn were not worried about G'Kar's visitor or the amount of time he remained alone after the Vorlon left.

No one knew what to think about these Narns who'd arrived. Everyone knew Babylon 5 was the only place in known space they had sanctuary. For them to openly move around was an invitation to be captured. Then they considered that this was Minbar, the Centauri would not dare! They noticed the uniforms as well and many of the pieces of the puzzle started to click into place. None of them liked what they were thinking. They went to G'Kar and Zack informed him that there was plenty of room in their barracks for all of them to stay. He also said it made a nice meeting place and smiled as he walked off. Things just continued to get more and more strange. Khashrim had been gone over a month without explanation and he turned up ½ hour after the Narns. He looked anxious and was breathless as he raced into the building straight to Mr. Garibaldi without stopping to speak to anyone. Before they could get over the sight of their favorite Moon Shield running through the main building, more arrivals poured in. The 20 Watchers they knew slipped away came in and headed for the barracks. Their expressions were somber and there was fire in their eyes. No one was willing to get in their way. They knew trouble and bad news when they saw it march through their front door.

The last thing they saw seemed to be the nail in the coffin of their hopes that nothing was going to happen. Selene and Marcus ended their self imposed exile. Everyone noticed and whispered about its eeriness that they seemed to be in sync. When Cole entered the building he wore his dress uniform complete with full regalia and saber. He looked more determined and more focused than any of them had ever seen him. Selene dressed for the occasion as well in one of her new uniforms Vir packed for her. She was surprised that it was a dress uniform and did not even know they had them considering their desire to shun the ostentatious. She had to admit it was beautiful and she understood the reason behind it. She was dressed to match her intent. In addition to her Ket'las she holstered the side arm that was packed in the trunk and put on her broach written in Centauri. When she stepped from her room and made her way through the building to the complex of their meeting room, she passed many people. Everyone took note of the way she was dressed and not one person missed that weapon holstered as she walked and her robe swayed. Not one person impeded her progress. The others were already assembled and waiting for them. Somehow they all knew they would come. Selene and Marcus both entered and took their seats silently but everyone knew something was about to happen just by looking at them.

They said nothing throughout the meeting. Others gave their reports. G'Kar shocked everyone except Stephen, Marcus and Selene. The captain didn't miss that. He did not know his lectures and talks over the last year had been recorded and distributed throughout all of the relocation centers. Michael couldn't let him off the hook because he found the humor in that. He also hadn't realized when he was speaking and sharing the ways and knowledge of the Kha'Ri to the group in Grey 17, he was teaching and training them. Apparently the Vorlons thought so because they were gathered in his absence. When he mentioned that in addition to some other things, the Vorlon brought him a personal message from G'Quon himself everyone sat up and took notice. They all wanted to know more. G'Kar gave them nothing.

Michael gave Khashrim's report along with what he learned from his secret sources and informants.

"The Wind Swords aren't our only problem."

That wasn't the opening line anyone wanted to hear but it was accurate. Fannol looked to Delenn and they both sat and waited for what was to come.

"All of the Night Shades left after the Nine were convened. They just slipped away quietly. How that's possible, I don't know. All of the Star Riders are gone as well. Every single one of them left. Shikiri went first after he brought them shame at Yedor but something happened and they all decided that Shikiri was not wrong just that he hadn't succeeded. The remaining Star Riders who hadn't made up their minds about leaving or were still not comfortable with certain things pretty much lost their minds all at once for some unknown reason. They denounced the teachings of Valen and went to meet up with the rest of them. I haven't been able to find out why they did that or what they all believe now. Khashrim called it Dark madness. He doesn't know either."

Never in a million years would Delenn have believed it was possible for a Minbari to denounce Valen. She could not process this. Fannol completely lost the power of speech. His mind was on over load at Michael's report and desperately wishes he would stop speaking and say no more. Delenn is determined to get some understanding,

"How is it that every member of two entire clans leaves the Federation and no one knew? What about the others?"

"According to Khashrim, the remaining clans were afraid to speak out on what was going on in fear that Minbari would look to them with suspicion and that they would be shunned or driven from the Federation simply because they are Warriors.

The captain allowed all this to settle. Talia was praying again as she is apt to do during a meeting when something is just too horrible to imagine let alone accept. Susan and the others turned to the quiet ones. They could not prod Stephen. When things such as this occurred, they knew he would speak if he needed to.

Stephen took a deep breath and then spoke,

"Kesha and Dulann managed to do the impossible and that is why their lives changed drastically. But it wasn't as simple as protecting them from the Dark forces that were watching and listening them or they would have returned after the Gathering. We'll see them again but first their talents are being put to good use."

Once again, Draal showed up and surprised everyone because no one but Stephen knew he had that kind of holographic range.

"I thought you might want another visual aide from our troublesome twosome. Something they came up with before Talia and Fannol's mission."

"Thanks."

With that, Draal released an image of Kesha and Dulann working through her theories while they were en route to the Vorlon home world.

"There is no record of Valen other than what he wrote or what was written about him. You are the queen of conspiracy theories Kesha. You do not find that the least bit suspicious? 1,000 years ago we had the technology. We could have preserved his speeches to the people, his image is no where except one statute at the Temple of Valen and if he knew that were erected he would not be pleased. He wanted no record of his likeness or voice saved anywhere. There are no drawings of him Kesha and of course we could have done that. Yet, you accepted the oral history and oral recount of his teachings and prophecies, his work without question when you arrived a Tuzanor. You accepted something written 1,000 years ago in another species' language. Why?"

Kesha was busy moving some of the texts, data crystals and flimsies they had scattered around her quarters and wasn't paying too much attention to him. She had her own secret theory about that but would never utter it out loud, even to Dulann. She wasn't sure what the Anla'Shok would do but she was pretty sure she'd spend the rest of her life wading through cleansing and purification rituals if the Religious Caste ever got a hold of her.

"The truth points to itself."

That made several of the groups and individuals who were watching them stop and pay even closer attention to her if that was even possible. Dulann shifted his weight and turned to her questioningly,

"What did you say?"

"Huh?"

"What did you just say?"

"All I said was that the truth points to itself."

"That is an interesting choice of words. Explain the meaning."

"Fine. Mark Twain wrote, "What is a lie, but the truth in masquerade?" He had to define what isn't true in the context of what is true. Basically, the truth needs nothing else. It stands on its own. And it reflects itself in the face of its likeness. Somehow we will always know it, recognize it because it can never really be hidden."

"Then we should theorize that every one of these enlightened souls consecrated in Light already knows the truth? Are you saying that is the reason you knew and believed what you learned at Tuzanor?"

She had to take a few moments to get it straight in her head first,

"I lost all of my family and most of my friends during the war. Just because I wasn't old enough to have fought then, doesn't mean I wasn't affected by it. But, I'm no different than any other human, we were all affected. Especially those of us on Earth watching the Battle of the Line. I'll never forget how my heart clenched seeing all those War Cruisers jump into orbit around the planet. Hundreds of them and they were just picking off Star Furies and ships like lent from your sleeve. I don't have to tell you this, Dulann, we were as good as gone. Nothing we could have done would have prevented our complete extinction and destruction.

But, in OUR greatest hour of need, the truth pointed to itself. The universe paused and the Universe's plan was not disrupted. It was no accident that Valen arrived with that space station on the eve of the Minbari's destruction during the last Shadow War, led them to victory and built a new society. Just as it was no accident that Entil'Zha was the one captured by the Grey Council. The circle was complete. That is balance, symmetry, and truth. Nothing anyone wanted to do could have prevented it. No matter how the Nine might have felt in those moments after learning the truth, they could not do anything to change it or make it any less true. But, even if they tried. Even if they had ignored it and finished destroying the human race, it STILL would have been the truth. There is no power in existence that can erase the truth. They can try to hide it and they can alter the viewer's perception of it, but they cannot destroy the truth. That is why I accepted what I learned at Tuzanor. That is why I was compelled to go there even when it made no sense to me at all. That is how I recognize the truth. It pointed to itself. It pointed to me."

Dulann always liked and respected Kesha, even when she was determined to have her own way with some new idea. But there were times, such as this, when he was forced to take a second look at his friend and remember just how enlightened she is. It warmed his heart to know that she felt these things with such power and conviction. He smiled at her affectionately and nodded his approval,

"You are right and you said that quite eloquently. Can we apply that basic theory to some of these things we are researching and piecing together? Should we not be able to recognize it in another? Just as we are able to recognize truth for itself."

"When you put it like that, I suppose so. Explain."

"I am not completely sure. Do not get excited and keep this theory to yourself. It is more a rhetorical question than a theory."

Dulann knows that he must wait for Kesha to give her actual assent or he'll never hear the end of it. He knows he's treading on delicate ground and carving a dangerous path with this.

She thinks she sees where this is going but so far so good so she nods yes.

"All humans are not compelled to fight against the Shadows or against Darkness. We know that Entil'Zha Delenn has banned all Rangers from Centauri space. For her to do that means they know something we do not and it cannot be anything good. At the same time she removed all Rangers from Earth, Mars and ALL human colonies except Proxima 3 indefinitely. That means something even worse. She wants none of the Anla'Shok to have any contact with any humans who are not fighting Shadows or engaged in the Resistance movement against Earth. I believe there is also a secret Ranger training camp on Proxima 3 and that Rangers and humans have joined together for that Resistance effort. We are Anla'Shok. We go into Dark places. Valen called us 1,000 years ago for the sole purpose of fighting and directly engaging Shadows. What could be worse than that? The only thing I can think of that would cause Entil'Zha to shield Rangers to such an extent is massive Darkness. She would not have sent Anla'Shok on a scouting mission to Z'ha'dum before the captain destroyed it. It is my suspicion that she fears those places have fallen to complete Darkness and will not risk certain death of her Anla'Shok."

Kesha sat quietly while he spoke. She thought she knew where he was going with this but somewhere he threw her for a loop. She had not taken her thoughts that far. She also realized that as much as Dulann pretends to complain, he is very good at weaving his own conspiracy theory.

"My point, is that there is balance. Not every Minbari is fighting against the Shadows and I am not talking about being on the front lines. Not everyone can do that but there are things that can and are being done for the over-all war effort. The Workers are building ships, preparing supplies, and creating the things we need. The Religious Caste is assisting them in those efforts as well as taking their war ships out into direct engagements. There are some who refuse to admit the return of the Shadows. There are some who did not believe Valen's prophecy that they would return and chose to fight against an enemy who could not defend itself rather than prepare for the coming Darkness. There are some who have remained silent. There are some who have been silent for over 10 years."

Kesha nods because she understands exactly where he's going and finishes the thought,

"The Wind Swords never surrendered during the war. They chose to run rather than surrender. They're out there somewhere. They have learned what all Minbari know about humans, they don't care. The Shai Alyt knew who Entil'Zha Sinclair was but still would not allow Warriors into the Anla'Shok. The Star Riders and Night Shades have said nothing since Shikiri. And, unlike the Moon Shields, they have yet to join the fight. They know many things. I am certain that the Warrior Satai know many more things. It is just the two of us here Dulann, say it."

"The truth points to itself and in the case of those you just mentioned, it does not point to them. Yes, Kesha, I accept your theory. I think you should prepare yourself to face a great Darkness in your species. I must do the same. I cannot even say your people or my people because the Anla'Shok are our people and Tuzanor is our home."

That was, without question, the most radical thing Kesha had ever heard Dulann utter. She was certain it was the most radical thing he'd ever thought in his entire life. She said nothing because there was nothing she could say. When she started her theory she hadn't meant to do this. She was still trying to wade through the Vorlon and Fannol issue and somewhere, somehow she got lost. This was too much. Kesha knew this realization hurt him deeply. She reached over and took his hand.

The holographic image faded out. The room was quiet as those on the War Council took in what they just witnessed. Sheridan is amazed to hear his words come back to him. He is really starting to understand the Universe's over-all plan more and more though he wishes he had known Kesha was able to think so broadly. Secretly, he thinks they could have come up with some really good plans together. How those two came up with all of that by themselves was a mystery to them all but the captain knew Marcus and Selene had more. He said nothing while Stephen continued.

"This isn't the only thing they uncovered. Valen knew the reason that humans and Minbari are connected. He did not share that with anyone and thought that would be another thing he had to keep all to himself. But he does have someone to compare notes with now. Last time I checked in on them, Kesha was dragging Dulann through the streets of Yedor so they could get there early enough to grab good seats to watch Valen convening the Nine for the first time under the Star Fire Wheel."

Michael almost choked, "In Valen's name! They're in the past?"

Stephen laughed, "Yeah. Kesha is absolutely determined to have confirmation on every single one of her theories. Problem is, she's right about all of them. And many of them span the galaxy. Both of them entered the Anla'Shok and trained under Sinclair. He knew them both very well. Especially Kesha and her off the wall ideas and plans. The Universe feels that Valen would make a good chaperone for the time being."

Susan looked at him and asked the same thing everyone else was thinking, "How is that possible? You say that like its happening right now."

"Time isn't linear like science suggests. Its confusing so don't stress. Think of it as the past, present and future happening at the same time."

Then he turns to Marcus because he knows this will ease his mind,

"I know you worried about this for a long time and you worried about Sinclair. Catherine wasn't lost forever in Sector 14. Thanks to Kesha's obsession with conspiracies and some really bad piloting, she and Dulann found Catherine in the vortex. All four of them are together now."

Marcus can only stare at Stephen and the relief on his face is so intense everyone is momentarily moved. He looks to Susan and she smiles and nods, "Yeah, I saw that too. Not the part about Kesha but that the two of them would be together again. It wasn't for anyone to know except him. Well, and apparently all of us." Then she laughs.

Captain Sheridan gave everyone a few moments to process what they'd just heard then moved on. He knew the time had come.

"Marcus, Selene which of you is going to make the report?" There was no sense pretending and he knew they were ready. Marcus looked up and around the room,

"Shikiri will send some of his people here for Delenn in 6 days. They want her alive. But they won't return her that way."

That wasn't what the captain expected to hear and neither did anyone else by their expressions. They wanted to know how he knew that but then considered it really wasn't important. They remembered what Stephen said about both of them. 7 people in the room turned to Delenn, then they turned to the captain. Delenn was no shrinking violet. She was ready to fight but she still had to make one stop before she could. And she was determined to have all the facts before she did. Not wanting the others to get off track,

"There is more to your report. Selene?"

"Marcus and I are leaving after the meeting. We are going to get him first."

Most of them weren't sure how to take that but Michael, Delenn and Sheridan all watched that recording. They had a good idea. Instead of addressing that, the captain thought it best to move on to a different point,

"What about the Wind Swords?"

Selene was suddenly a fountain of information and they all sat back in amazement,

"Some Minbari willingly served the Shadows 1,000 years ago. They are Shryne. They learned the prophecies of Valen when they remained on Minbar after the Shadow war until they had to flee in the presence of Light. That was the second war Valen led. The one between Darkness and Light from within Minbar. Valen knew that there would be another war between Darkness and Light and that it would be fought after the Shadows returned. After this last war. He saw that and he gave prophecy to the Minbari of what would come. What we are about to face now. Valen knew that Shryne would know the Shadows would return because they were still among the Minbari when he told them. They knew roughly the time to prepare. They told the Drahk so that they would be ready to meet them when they awoke and called their lost servants home.

When the Wind Swords ran instead of surrendering, they were welcomed among the Drahk. They found a new home while they have waited to reclaim this one. The Drahk were servants of the Shadows during the last war. Not just servants, they worshiped them as gods and proudly called them their masters. When Valen turned the tide of the war and drove them into slumber, the Drahk swore to wait patiently for their gods to return. Shryne have existed among the Drahk for the last 1,000 years. That is where Minbari go when they embrace Darkness."

No one could believe what they were hearing and Delenn was absolutely floored. All those who studied the ancient text from before the time of Valen knew nothing of that. All of them knew their Minbari history and thought they knew all there was to know from the time of Valen. They don't want to believe and aren't sure what to do with it. Marcus picks of the tale,

"When the Shadows opened that time rift in Sector 14 it was a combined effort. They had additional help. The Wind Swords assisted. They were the ones attacking the station with the Shadows to prevent us from moving it into place. They did not want Valen to arrive.

They fought with the Shadows against us in this war but obviously not in War Cruisers. Once Shikiri was disgraced Wind Sword Shyrne came to him and offered him sanctuary. After all of the revelations began to occur and he rested, he brought a message of Darkness to the other Warriors and they accepted. Once they saw the type of power he has now and they considered their own fallen situation here on Minbar they went willingly. The Night Shades were always in contact with the Wind Swords. They were their eyes and ears within the Federation. When they saw how the Grey Council was reconvened they abandoned all ties, they denounced the teachings of Valen and left.

Valen was smart enough to protect your identity and not make any reference to the time Isil'Zha would arrive. We would simply have to recognize you ourselves. He did that to insure Shryne would not have a chance to intervene. No one was prepared for you, captain. Even Jyenalazor did not expect you to call the Gathering. You heard, it could not believe you had the power or knowledge to do so. The Drahk thought they had more time. The Shadows thought they had more time. Shryne thought they had more time. You ruined their chance to be granted power from their masters once Darkness defeated Light as they were certain it would do this time. Now, they will take Minbar. The Shadows could not turn Delenn when they took her away to be tested. Jyenalazor admitted to defeat because you could not be defeated by Darkness or it. The Warriors don't have to defeat, all they want now is to remove the obstacles from their path to success. That starts with Delenn. They know you are the one who ended the war and facilitated the surrender. As far as the Wind Swords are concerned, you are the reason for their exile this last decade, self imposed or not. You can imagine how Shikiri feels. His anger is more recent and failure more public."

Then they are both silent and sit back while the others catch up to what they've said. They all catch that Marcus knows the name of the creature from the Gathering but aren't sure they want to know how he knows. Then they each seem to get that it doesn't matter.

They don't want to believe something like this is possible and all of them are having a lot of trouble buying it. Except Stephen, cause he knows its true. And the captain on general principle of all he's learned about the beginning of time and the workings of the Universe. G'Kar believes it because he considers G'Quon's veiled warning of this. Michael isn't sure but he thinks having this information is cause for the two of them to have acted the way they did since their return from the mission.

Selene thinks for a minute then looks to Marcus. He nods that its ok to tell them this.

"Remember that the Wind Swords shielded Deathwalker for 10 years. What do you guys think her incentive was for them to protect her all those years? And why'd they just let her walk away in the end?"

[That ought to keep their minds busy and away from other things for awhile.]

Sure enough the room is filled with a bunch of "In Valen's names" and a "G'Quon" as they put the pieces together.

"Are you saying she gave them the formula?"

"Yes."

And the hits keep coming. Things are going from horrible to unthinkable. That gets the captain's attention (as if the other things they said did not) and he turns to Marcus,

"Please don't tell me all of the Wind Swords or all of the Warriors with them have access to the formula. They're not all immortal?"

That's one of the only good things about this mess. He looks a bit relieved when he answers,

"No. She spent the better part of that decade working on it. She only left them once she was certain it worked but she didn't give them enough to spread around and she was smart enough to hold something back as protection for herself. Remember she tried to buy her freedom by selling it to any of the younger races who would pay the highest price. What she gave them was time delayed. But, the Vorlons knew we shouldn't have access to it. They also knew what was coming. That's why they were ordered to intervene when Earth Gov sent that ship for her and destroyed it.

Shryne never forgot Valen's prophecies. They knew someone would come to them and that person would be their deliverer and the way to reclaiming Minbar. The Drahk were entrusted to keep the completed formula as they have been committed to helping the Minbari who came to them for the last 1,000 years. There was no threat they would take it for themselves for two reasons. First, it wasn't a generic formula. What she left was specific to Minbari and can't be reproduced or synthesized. It could not work for them. Second, she was supposed to return to them after buying her freedom and make it available to all of them. She didn't so all they have is what she left. They gave it to Shikiri."

G'Kar knows he has even more to confess to the Kha'Ri when this meeting is over. He went to Deathwalker when Commander Sinclair had her locked up in a holding cell on the station. He tried to buy the formula for his people. He was authorized to pay any price and would have even offered her sanctuary among the Narns for this chance to uplift his people. The only reason he did not was because her price was too high on a personal level. She demanded the head of his aide, Na'Toth. If she had wanted anything else, G'Kar is certain he would have given it to her. The Universe continues to point out the mistakes and the horrible ways his soul was almost lost. He should have known, he should have seen that she was a student of Darkness. Nothing else could explain all the experiments and vile poisons she created over the years before the Dilgar war. She used entire species as test subjects. She was death, destroyer of worlds. And he would have given her a home among his people. He continues to be humbled and chastised. He can only thank the Universe for interfering every time he planned something foolish in the name of his people. He would have brought them all into the service of Darkness!

Fannol finally recovers enough to ask the question he needs answered,

"Why are these prophecies of Valen unknown? We knew nothing of a war between Dark and Light among Minbari, that a second war would follow or that there would be some deliverer."

"Minbari were revisionist when it came to recording their own history. It was considered their greatest hour of shame and they did not want anyone to know. They were so busy editing out the fact that not only did some Minbari serve but that it was quite a large number for them to have had to fight a war. There was no way to keep his other prophecies in tact to warn us of what is upon is now without admitting to what happened in the past. I believe this is a perfect example of that old human saying about never forgetting history or you'll be doomed to repeat it."

They all look to Susan for more details. She IS the Oracle of Minbar after all! Susan exhales,

"I saw some of this. Not the particulars of Shikiri with the Drahk or any of this about Deathwalker. I knew there was a great Darkness in the Minbari's future that would challenge everyone. I just did not know when. I also saw the last war, all of it. And, it wasn't pretty. It is true that they rewrote history after Valen died. They simply hoped that Minbari would be strong enough to fight the Shadows and would defeat all Shryne at the same time. They did not know Isil'Zha would arrive in our greatest hour of need. They did not know the Universe's plan but they tried to interfere. G'Quon knew this as well. That is one of the reasons he and Valen were so close. One but not the only reason.

Valen did not simply have the knowledge of Sinclair. Entil'Zha was having dreams long before he took the first steps to begin walking his path. He told me my purpose the night I became Anla'Shok. That a time would come when I would both serve and lead the Army of Light. Valen knew many things that would come to pass after the Shadows returned. He suspected that the Minbari would not keep a record of his warning. G'Quon was certain of it. He saw some things that Valen did not. That was why they met in secret so often. They knew what others of their time did not and they knew they each had a burden of silence. Valen hoped that the Kha'Ri would be stronger than the Minbari and that they would be more attentive than the Anla'Shok. G'Quon saw their end with G'Kar. Valen knew that the Kha'Ri would endure. Put the two of them together and you have the history of the future. That was a part of the Universe's plan as well."

Then she stopped and collected her thoughts for how to say this correctly before turning to G'Kar,

"G'Quon saw many things. I don't know what was in that message he left with the Vorlons. That was for you alone. G'Quon saw the things you would do. Not your entire life, but many of your choices, challenges and obstacles. He understood certain things from that long ago."

Her revelations weighed heavily on G'Kar. He never saw himself as anything other than a simple workman for his people. Then he thought about G'Quon's message and decided he better get over it in order to do what must be done.

Stephen finally decided he could share a little.

"Delenn, I know you were preparing to inform the Grey Council of what was coming after the ships were ready. This is an internal war. None of the League races can assist. I know everyone was concerned about having enough people to man the ships. The Universe took care of that as well. I believe there are quite a few Betla'Nal and Kha'Ri camped out in the barracks comparing reports and sharing information. It is time Susan spoke to the Nine. You'll also need to assemble the Council of Elders. They know the Oracle is here, there is no reason to conceal that fact any longer or to pretend amongst ourselves that we do not know.

Most of you have searched the ancient texts of Minbar's history looking for certain answers. None of you will find answers or unlock any mysteries of what was or what is to come in those records because you were never intended to. There is only one person who can but that individual isn't in this room. We are on our own, for the most part, in what we all know is going to start soon. How we do this is just as important, perhaps more so, as what we do."

The captain turns to Stephen because they've covered a lot and there's much more to do.

"Anything else we need to know before we start formulating a plan and put it into motion?"

Susan turns to Sheridan,

"John, you do realize you are the last person who needs to be mentioning that there's a PLAN if you want cooperation from the rest of us."

"Be quiet Susan. Stephen?"

He's testy but realizes its true so he let's it go.

"Probably, but that's all I'm going to give you guys today."

He chews on that for a few moments but there's nothing he can do about it so he shifts gears and addresses Selene and Marcus.

"Where are you two headed?"

"We'd rather not say where we're going to prevent any attempts at assisting or rescuing us if we should fail."

Delenn isn't the least bit happy about that but has accepted many things since her last experience with the Triluminary. She will trust in the Universe and she will trust these two to do what they must and then return.

Marcus sees where her mind is and does not want her thinking about them,

"Michael, I don't have the time to do it so you need to meet with Zack and Mai'lenn as soon as the meeting ends. Tell them everything. Do not leave anything out. You must tell them I said that Shikiri will move in 6 days if you have not heard from me or Selene. Tell them just like that. They have an understanding of the situation. Find out what they know. Betla'Nal have their own War Cruiser and an unnumbered White Star. They sent their people out weeks ago. You see they all returned today. I suspect they've been all over the Federation gathering information.

You also need to coordinate with them about Delenn going to address the Grey Council. Both of them will go because they are aware of certain...procedures that must be followed where Delenn is concerned. Lennier cannot travel with them this time. They should take 10 of their people with them. None of the other Rangers must go. None of Susan's security from White Star 3. Only Watchers.

It is against all protocol but I do not care and neither will Zack or Mai'lenn. Both of them will be in the chamber when Delenn addresses the Nine. Tell them that was my directive. They will know how to prepare."

"They will also need to be present when she meets with the Council of Elders. Susan has to be there as well so they need to have warning to prepare for those security arraignments. Her guards from White Star 3 can be there as long as they are not meeting on the Grey Council ship. Anytime Delenn boards that ship Mai'lenn and Zack must be with her and Betla'Nal must be the only guards present."

Even Delenn is confused about why she needs special precautions of this kind when she is on the ship but does not question Marcus.

"If Selene and I fail they will come for Delenn. We have a small window of opportunity because he doesn't know that he's going to send them for her yet."

That last sentence made everyone stare at them both harder. Since when does Marcus know the future?

He turns to Delenn,

"This is not the time for secrets or misdirection. They all must know this is the second war AND that Valen's prophecies were purposely concealed by Minbari. They must understand the reasons that was done. Feel free to misrepresent when it comes to mentioning that Selene and I told you this information since none of you know how we know. But they must know everything you know. The Three should be informed before everyone. I suspect they are ready for this. Especially Rathenn. Both you and the captain must tell them everything as soon as you leave this room. Susan's presence would probably help Durhan take this better. He is a Warrior.

Susan, you can't leave anything out. Give everyone all of the details. Let them know they can ask you as many questions as they need to and answer all of them. You are their only source of history or understanding.

Talia, Leroon should be here soon. I sent a group of Watchers, Anla'Shok and Warriors on Mai'lenn's White Star to pick him up. He is too isolated at his school and his ties to you are well known. Its up to you to prepare him. Tell him everything, his counsel will be of great help to you all.

You must also pull Kailenn aside and speak to her privately. We try to run from her when we get the chance but the absolute truth is that she has a greater purpose than we understand. She knows a lot more than we think. And in some respects, she knows more than any of us. Tell her before Leroon arrives or after. Its your decision but he does not need to be wandering around wondering why he is here while all of this unusual activity is going on. The fact that he is being brought here under heavy and assorted guard has already put him on high alert."

Selene turns to the Sheridan,

"Captain, you have to limit your movements for the next week. I am sorry but you cannot visit Valen's temple until after everyone is informed of the entire truth and of the impending war. If you must address the Grey Council, Tathann is the only one of your regular guards who can travel with you. Michael will have to be there and be very close. Talia should be with you as well. Zack and Mai'lenn must have as much warning as possible to make additional adjustments for your safety. Please remember that Warriors are the guards on board that ship. I am not saying that they are involved in this madness. I am saying that they most probably knew what was happening within their caste and remained silent. The Warriors with us on Babylon 5 had no idea what was happening here on Minbar.

I know that you will be busy finalizing your pla...strategy for engaging them. You do not have much time. G'Kar will be able to figure out where they are. But this battle must take place within Federation space. Whether it remains a secret from the other races is unknown but it must be fought in the presence of Minbari. There is a separate reason for that."

She didn't bother explaining that and though they wanted to know they did not ask. They all got the feeling that the captain was working on this long before the first report because he seems to be taking it all too easily and adjusting too quickly. Everyone was suspicious that he knows her other unspoken reason. Finally, she addresses G'Kar.

"Sir, you must attend to the Kha'Ri as soon as you leave here. They will fight this war because they are supposed to. You must be the one to brief them and you must be explicit. You know a great deal. They must understand many things. And you must point out the balance, symmetry and truth now or they will be lost in the times ahead."

When she finishes, Selene looks to Marcus and he nods as they both stand. "We have to leave now."

Selene turns to Marcus,

"Come on Fred."

"After you Ginger.

After they leave the room Delenn turns to Michael for an explanation of that reference. When he finishes she is confused and say she does not get it. No one else does and they all wait for Michael to explain. He was hip to the way they made their report and gave all those instructions at the end even if the others didn't catch on. His answer doesn't make any of them feel good.

"They think its going to be their last dance."

Durhan looked up as Susan approached and knew whatever was to come was near. Everyone was certain of that fact. He watched Selene and Cole march from the building with a purpose. They moved as if they were going into battle. They were obviously dressed for it. But, he knew it was to be very bad the moment he saw Talia standing quietly in the Great Hall waiting for Leroon as he entered the building under heavy guard. She took his arm and led him away without a word. Durhan said nothing but braced himself mentally before Susan spoke.

"Master, Entil'Zha and the captain would like to meet with the three of you."

He took in her demeanor and simply nodded his head before speaking, "I will get them, we can meet in the office."

Durhan feared that Rathenn was expecting this. Everything in his countenance since the Vorlons spoke to the Nine made him suspicious of that fact months ago. When all of the movement and activity began that day, he tried to prepare himself. Once they were gathered all of his fears were confirmed when Susan purposefully moved a chair from across the room to sit next to him. By the time Delenn and Susan finished speaking, he knew he could say nothing so he did not try. Rathenn had no words and Durhan could tell that he did not know this. He had no idea of the extent of the situation. Now Leroon's unexpected arrival and that mixed assortment of guards made perfect sense. Durhan assumed he would be in residence here for some time. Turval was the only one to gain control of the situation and the other two knew he was putting his own emotions aside in order to assist his brethren. They were gratified.

After Delenn laid out the plan for speaking to the others, Rathenn felt he should offer his personal assistance.

"You certainly do not require my presence but I would be honored to accompany you to address the Grey Council and the Council of Elders if you wish."

Delenn did not hesitate in her response, "The honor is mine Rathenn. I thank you. Time is of the essence. We should make ready to leave in 2 hours. It has been some time since we walked those halls together." Then she smiled warmly. She knew what he was feeling and she knew he was the only one who understood her feelings and position at the moment.

After the meeting ended the captain went to start organizing the tactical strategy. First he needed some quiet moments alone to center himself and put much of the information in order. There were things he understood differently from the others. Things he saw that he was unsure how they would play out. He knew this would be difficult on everyone and that the debts payed to other were different from the debts about to be collected. There would be grave changes and, once again, he was going to be at the center of it.

Turval enlisted Fannol as his personal assistant in all preparations for the Anla'Shok. There were many camps, there were Anla'Shok patrolling borders all over the galaxy. The word had to be disseminated while the spread of information was contained to the Rangers and Kha'Ri. And, they had to start organizing who would do what. Fannol didn't mind. Turval snatched him up and pushed him back into the administrative duties he assumed after Entil'Zha went away as soon as he realized they would all be staying on at Tuzanor. They worked well together. Especially when Turval wasn't trying to squeeze information from him. No, Fannol saw that Turval had all the information he could handle. Truth be told, Fannol did as well.

Talia was concerned because Kailenn was silent. She said nothing and she barely moved. It took some time to lay out the story for her. She was sure that part of Kailenn's reaction stemmed from surprise at being given all the available information without having to gather any for herself. Talia misread Kailenn. She was turning over many things in her mind. She knew what the Vorlons showed them and she considered everything she'd witnessed since their arrival. No, she did not doubt one word. She knew it for the truth. She also thought on many of the other things she knew. Talia was surprised and did not know how to respond when Kailenn turned to her,

"Tell me how I am to help."

That was all. No questions and no shocked reaction. And that's when Marcus' words came back to her. She thought for a few moments and then began discussing several options.

No one seemed to know why the War Council came to Minbar and remained at Tuzanor for all this time. Everyone assumed Captain Sheridan would be leading the war to liberate Earth. They heard the stories of a new group, a special branch of Anla'Shok called Betla'Nal, moving through various cities on Minbar and around the Federation. They did not know what that meant but they knew it was tied to those 10 and to Delenn's last visit. But, weeks had gone by without them being able to gather any new information. Then, all at once, they started getting reports coming in from everywhere. Narns on Minbar? In uniform. Traveling with Betla'Nal. Then they learned it was Tuzanor and they were immediately suspicious. When Delenn contacted them and requested to meet formally to make a report to the Grey Council they were surprised. They understood she was requesting to stand before them as Entil'Zha and knew that was significant. Of course they would convene to hear her report. But when she said it was urgent and should be done in the next 3 hours they were alarmed.

They monitored her arrival under the heaviest guard they'd ever seen her with. Last time Cole brought 2 and her aide. This time, those same two returned with 10 more! At least they got to see these Watchers for themselves. They also understood why a member of station security wore a denn'bok. He was in hiding. If they hadn't been alarmed before, seeing Rathenn in her company sent them over the edge. They were certain Delenn and the others knew nothing of the Vorlons' visit or their message. Nor did they believe Delenn knew that they had visited the camp or been counseled by Rathenn. His presence was a message to them and they heard it loud and clear before anyone said a word.

They said nothing at the complete breach of protocol as her two guards entered the chamber and stood silently to the side keeping Delenn in their sight while monitoring everything else in the room. Rathenn and Delenn stood among the Nine, they knew the rules. That they broke them blatantly in this manner meant there was a serious reason to do so. It did not take long for them to learn that reason. Every time Delenn said something more shocking and more drastic they just knew it had to be the end of her tale. Silently they all wished she'd shut up and not say another word. There wasn't one member of the Grey Council who wasn't thankful, yet again, that their faces had to remain shrouded by the time Delenn finished speaking. Never could they have imagined any of the things she said. And Shikiri! What was this madness? In the end, each of the Nine were wishing they had Anla'Shok or Betla'Nal guarding them because they were all secretly suspicious of their own guards.

But then someone else stepped into the circle without introduction and lowered the hood of their cloak. Ivanova! When they saw her face they all had the same thought. For her to reveal herself to them. For her to come to them, they were absolutely positive that the last days must have surely arrived. By the time she explained in great detail what happened during the last war between Darkness and Light of Minbari more than a few were calling on every shred of discipline they had to prevent themselves from gasping or crying out. All of them believed that their history was revised to edit out that great shame. None of them could forgive their ancestors for concealing Valen's prophecies that could have warned and prepared them sooner simply because they were embarrassed!

Everyone knew that Valen and G'Quon were friends. Hearing Susan explain just how close they really were surprised them all. When the Nine learned that Valen did not trust Minbari to record the truth or reveal his prophecies they were ashamed. But to hear that he took the extra precaution of informing G'Quon so that he could tell the Kha'Ri something of what was to come amazed them. Now the Nine understood completely why those 50 Narns risked possible capture by the Centauri to leave where ever they were hiding to come to Minbar! Learning that the Kha'Ri accepted their charge to stand with the Anla'Shok and fight simply because Valen asked G'Quon to preserve his message gave them all something additional to think about.

Then their thoughts all turned to the Narn who sat on the War Council with the others. He stood with them from the beginning, fought with them and was even captured and enslaved by the Centauri while carrying out his duty to the Council. They considered that conversation on White Star 9 in a different light now. His knowledge of certain great beings was much more extensive than theirs. It was obvious he knew a great deal and they began to wonder about many things. The Nine were determined to have some more information on G'Kar and tapped their emergency source of Workers at the camp. They reported that he met with a Vorlon for 3 days in secret. That the Vorlon had come to him. Yes, they had a great deal to think about.

Now the conversation between the Three made even more sense. Each of them remembered Durhan's explanation of the Vorlons' presence. Preparing the Anla'Shok for what is to come because of what the Anla'Shok must do. Many things began to make sense to all of them. Rathenn's words rang in their ears, "the wrong step, pride, arrogance, a disbelieving spirit" this was it. They would hear this and they would prepare. None of them were completely certain of what to do. They each wished there was one to stand beside the Nine. How they were all jealous of Delenn and Rathenn to have had Dukhat to guide them. They knew they were on their own with this one.

Strangely enough, Delenn's entourage seemed to keep growing as the Grey Council said they would like to accompany her when she met with the Council of Elders. That was a shock to her. The Nine did not parade around the Federation or Minbar! They did not go to people, people came to them. Then she considered this group. A new Council perhaps had decided to adopt new ways. Yes, that too. But there was no way they would allow dissension to rise up on the eve of their greatest tragedy in 1,000 years. They wanted everyone else to know with certainty that the Grey Council accepted the truth of the past and the present. And they wanted them to all have confirmation that the Grey Council acknowledged that the Oracle had arrived and her name was Susan Ivanova.

Personally, Susan didn't like everyone assuming that she saw all that stuff about Deathwalker and the Drahk. She knew it couldn't be helped because they did not know how Marcus and Selene knew and could not expose them. It really didn't matter 'cause most people were stuck on the outrage that Minbari lied and covered up a war. But the reaction from the Council of Elders matched that of the Nine. They were seething to learn that they had the nerve to keep Valen's prophecies hidden from them. They understood what both women said. They got the message. The Anla'Shok would not hide the truth and they would not cover anything up. They would face this and they did not care if other races found out. Their only concern was for the Federation and Minbari.