From: "Aubrey W. Adkins" Subject: John and Delenn After 20 Years Part A Date: Tue, 19 Aug 1997 23:21:03 -0700 My Netscape 4 mailer limits message size to 32KB so I am sending this in two parts A & B Standard disclaimer-all characters in this story are owned by JMS, PTEN and/or WB. They can have them back anytime. All comments welcome Send comments to [xazqrten@norfolk.infi.net] Title: John and Delenn After 20 Years Part A There are no spoilers in this story. This story will make more sense if you have read "Redheaded Telepath." However, it can stand on its own. "--" = spoken words <--> = telepathy --' = emphasis As they followed the old menbari into the aft section of the shuttle John and Delenn exchanged puzzled glances. As they entered the after portion of the shuttle the door they had just passed through closed and latched behind them. "Sir, I know that you were sent to bring us to Epsilon III but, what are doing shut up in this part of the ship?" asked Delenn. "We are no longer in the shuttle," was the reply. "When the door closed behind you we were phased into hyperspace." The old man passed one hand over a panel and what appeared to be a window became transparent. Sure enough, they were looking into hyperspace with its eerie red patterns. There appeared to be a Whitestar warship closing with them. As they closed to less than two kilometers, their craft, such as it was, encountered a tractor beam. The beam pulled them into what appeared to be a docking bay. As they departed their small craft, Delenn and Sheridan noticed that this Whitestar seemed to be somewhat different than the standard configuration. They continued in silence until they arrived at what obviously the ship's bridge. They looked at their escort and started to ask where the crew was. They had seen no other personnel except themselves and their escort. The bridge was deserted. In fact they noticed that the control consoles they saw didn't look like any they had seen before. As they watched the old man who was their escort began to morph into a young redheaded woman. They stood very still in a state of shock. "Lyta," said both of them at once. "Johnny, Delenn, welcome to my private ship." John in a subdued voice, "Lyta, how did you pull this off? We thought you were dead. No one has seen you in over eighteen years." "I like my privacy. Besides, I have been very busy. Delenn asked me for a favor and now I am able to oblige her." John had noticed that the ship was moving through hyperspace at a good speed. The question of how and who was piloting was evident by his facial expression. "When I said it was my private ship, I meant every word. This ship will only respond to me. It is similar to the relationship that Kosh had with his ship. It is connected to me telepathically. I think and it does. It thinks, Johnny. It is sentient." Lyta? How long until we reach Epsilon III," asked Delenn. "About four hours. Give or take a few minutes." "How can we get there that fast in hyperspace?" asked Sheridan. "I will explain that at a later time. Just accept that all is not what it appears." ***** "We are exiting hyperspace through the Epsilon III jumpgate," said a disembodied voice. In the ship's wardroom, Lyta, John and Delenn were enjoying hot tea and reminiscing some old memories. Lyta promised to bring them up to date after they arrived on Epsilon III. They entered a small shuttle in the ship's docking bay and dropped away toward the planet's surface. John and Delenn were astounded at the changes they saw as their shuttle landed in the spaceport. They had not seen Epsilon III in almost fifteen years and the changes were numerous. New buildings, a new spaceport and many beings of various races/species. "Babylon 5 serves as an intermediate transfer point and customs/immigration control," said Lyta to the unasked questions. Sheridan gave Lyta a querying look. "Johnny, we are joined at the hip, courtesy of Kosh, remember? At this distance I hear everything you think," said Lyta. "Follow me we are expected in our main medical facility." They entered what looked like an elevator and immediately dropped what seemed like a kilometer underground before the conveyance moved horizontally for some minutes. Finally the door opened and they stepped out into a long passageway. Lyta led off at a brisk pace and shortly they entered what she said was the main medical facility. They proceeded into a very understated office, comfortable chairs and couch but otherwise, austere. They were sitting down when a very professional looking gentlemen in his mid fifties entered and sat down behind the desk. "Welcome home, Mrs. Blaine. You must be Mr. and Mrs. Sheridan," he continued. " I am Dr. Drile. Mrs. Blaine filled me in about your case some time ago. We have been making preparations for the two of you." "The two of us?" asked Delenn. "Yes, didn't Mrs. Blaine explain it to you?" "No, I didn't Dr. I thought it would be better if they learned it here from you." "Learned what?" asked John. The doctor pointed to the monitor on the far wall and said, "ISN feed." The newscaster was reading her report as a voice over to pictures of an explosion in space. "These pictures were recorded onboard the Whitestar 25 earlier today. Former minbari ambassador Delenn and her husband retired Admiral John Sheridan were apparently killed in an accident that destroyed their shuttle as they were approaching the Whitestar 25. There has not been an official announcement as to what may have caused the accident. An inquiry has been instigated by the menbari government. John Sheridan also known to the menbari as "Starkiller" because of his actions during the earth-minbari war was reported to have many old enemies amongst the minbari warrior cast. The safety record of menbari shuttles is such that many in the know do not believe that the destruction of the shuttle was an accident. "Lyta. What the hell have you done?" said Sheridan at just below a yell. "I killed both you and Delenn. She asked me to give you back your lifespan if I ever found a way. Well, I found a way." "Why the games?" "No games, John. If it ever got out what we can do here there would be hell to pay throughout the galaxy." "I don't understand," said John and Delenn as one voice. "You remember how Delenn became part human? Well we have learned how to make triluminaries. I mean customized triluminaries. With them I can make you anything you want to be. The doctor has made one that will take you as you are and return you to perfect human health. In addition you will be better than new. Delenn we are making another one for you. It will complete your transformation to being a human." "Lyta, why is that necessary?" asked Delenn. "Delenn, you are the only female minbari-human hybrid in the galaxy. A DNA scan of you would identify you immediately. When we get through, both of you will be perfectly healthy and have DNA patterns that can be traced back to here. We can give you any identity we choose to." "You will be able to live long happy lives and no one will ever know the truth except us." said Dr. Drile. John and Delenn arrived 15 minutes early for the dinner Lyta had suggested in her quarters. She had intimated there would be others present. She said she wanted to introduce them to some old friends. As they entered the apartment they were greeted by what appeared to be Dr. Stephen Franklin's son and Bester's son and daughter. Lyta introduced them and John and Delenn were momentarily speechless. These weren't offspring, they were the originals. All of them appeared to be no older than late twenties or early thirties. After the introductions Stephen recommended appropriate drinks until the caterer presented dinner. The apartment was sumptuous. A mixture of pastels with some brightly colored furniture to accent the decorations. The chairs and sofas were heavily padded and upholstered in combinations of cloth and leather. Lyta seemed to have a thing for leather. The door opened and Paul entered followed by two redheaded young men of about 19 or 20 years. It was obvious they were twins. "John, Delenn, I want you to meet my sons Michael and John. They were named for you and Michael Garibaldi," said Lyta. Both boys bowed to Delenn and John and said in unison, "Hello." The boys were taller than Sheridan. "They have been studying hard these last few years John. I am hoping that in a few years they will be ready to take over for me," said Lyta. "Take over for you?" asked Delenn. "Yes. There are some things I want to devote more time to," replied Lyta. The caterer approached Lyta and informed her that the meal could begin at any time. What followed was a long leisurely meal in the old world European tradition. Multiple courses and plenty of conversation. Dr. Franklin was enthusiastic over the advances they had made in genetic engineering. His enlightenments led to a long discussion of the discoveries made in new ways to use the triluminary types of equipments. It was obvious to Delenn and John that their upcoming experiences would be very different from the Delenn experience during her change. "Stephen, will I retain any of my present features during this change?" inquired Delenn. "I mean, I am fond of my partial crest." " No problem, we will only change your DNA patterns. Your brain functions, memories and other general health concerns will in better shape than ever. There are additional changes that will be made that will require both of you to undergo a period of readjustment," replied the doctor. "Delenn, both of you will be telepaths when the changes are complete. That is why you will be retrained. Handling telepathic abilities isn't something that comes naturally to humans, yet," added Lyta. "I take it there isn't a choice in this?" asked Sheridan. Lyta nodded no. "I will give you and Delenn the very long version after you undergo your changes. I know you will approve." "This is what you removed from my mind years ago isn't it?" asked Sheridan. "I never removed it, John. I simply put a barrier up to block your subconscious mind from misunderstanding it until the time was right," replied Lyta. "You said your ship was sentient. How is that possible?" asked Delenn. "I will also explain that, after your changes," replied Lyta. From John, "Lyta, it seems like a lot hinges on the changes we will undergo." "There is, John. After the changes there will be no going back to what was. Both of you are about to become part of something you can't possibly imagine at the present time. You are going to begin a whole new adventure," said Lyta. Lyta walked over to Sheridan, put her arms around his neck and gave him a very passionate kiss. She sent him a mental message, She turned to Delenn gave her a hug and told her the same thing she had told' Sheridan. John and Delenn departed down the passageway to their quarters. Neither said anything until they reached their apartment. ***** As they entered their apartment John and Delenn looked at one another for a whole minute before the questions began. "John, how do you feel about all this?" "I am not sure, Delenn. We both know that my time is running out shortly. Lyta has assured us that everything will be okay. And, she has never done anything to us that was not in our best interests." "It would make me feel better if I knew more of the details." "I trust her, so we will just have to go on faith." "I am tired John, lets talk about it later." After getting in bed John turned to Delenn and slowly drew her to him. If he was going to be indisposed for any length of time, he had better make the most of tonight. Her responses told him she agreed. Morning came quickly, John felt like he had been asleep for only a few minutes. Delenn was already up fixing breakfast. "That smells delicious, Delenn." "I didn't want you starting the upcoming journey on an empty stomach. Besides, after last night I would think you need replenishment. You have about an hour and a half before you must meet Steven." "I feel better about the whole thing this morning. Do you think Lyta has been bolstering my attitude surreptitiously?" "I don't think so. She hasn't done anything like that in the past." With breakfast finished they went to meet Dr. Franklin in the medical center. It was time. The room John was taken to was a typical hospital room with what appeared to be a cryogenic chamber standing in the center. There were myriad tubes and wires running between the chamber and many pieces of equipment. Sheridan approached the chamber with obvious apprehension. Stephen assured him that everything was ready. Wearing only a thin biodegradable hospital gown John climbed into the chamber. He started counting backward from 100 as instructed as soon as the chamber lid was closed and sealed. At 59 he quit counting and was asleep. Delenn looked at Stephen for comfort. "Everything looks fine, Delenn," replied Stephen to her unvoiced question. On her way out of the medical facility Delenn encountered Lyta. "Good morning Delenn. I take it that John's journey has begun?" "Yes. What brings you by here this morning?" "Nothing. I planned to talk with you alone as soon as John was taken care of. You asked me to help you. I keep my promises. Let's walk for awhile and talk." Delenn nodded assent. The walk seemed to meander through park like facilities. Trees, carefully tended gardens and even a labrynth like maze from trimmed hedge like plants. It occurred to Delenn that they were not underground. came Lyta's voice in her head. Delenn stopped and looked at Lyta. responded Lyta. "Not to mention more private. No one else can hear' our conversation.> They had arrived at a stone garden reminiscent of the one on Babylon 5. Lyta invited Delenn to share a bench. As they were being seated Lyta asked Delenn how she felt about what she knew so far about what was in store for her and John. What followed over the next hour was a astonishing amount of information in the form of ideas and pictures. Delenn was reeling from the amount of data she had absorbed. She couldn't even determine where to begin asking questions much less formulate the questions themselves. "You are correct Lyta. He wouldn't have understood. I am having trouble understanding what you have showed to me. I must think about it. I want to ask questions later," said Delenn. Hearing someone in your mind was going to take some getting used to. The response came. Delenn rubbed her eyes and got up to follow Lyta out of the garden. The idea of a snack and drink was becoming more desirable by the minute. The pastry was delicious and the tea tasted heavenly. Lyta was fantastic company. It occurred to her that her redheaded companion was beginning to grow on her. Whatever it was that had impressed her during her first meetings with Lyta so many years ago, she was aware that the feelings had changed and grown. There was a bond of which she had apparently not been aware in the past. She looked at Lyta and wondered what having a brother and/or sister would be like. Since there was no response in her mind, she thought Lyta was not listening' to her. She thought back over the years since her first arrival on Babylon 5. She had embraced Ivonava on numerous occasions when she shared distress with her over various situations and wondered if those were what sisters would have done and felt. Until last night she had only ever held hands with Lyta when they went to Za'ha'dum trying to learn if John were alive. Lyta had never expressed feelings of love toward anyone except Paul. She had asked for help only one time, when her back was against wall with little chance of escaping alive. She had repaid that debt many times over. "Do you want to talk about it?" asked Lyta. "You read my mind?" asked Delenn. "No. The expression on your face led me to believe you are struggling with some emotional thoughts. I can sense the emotional turmoil but nothing else unless I scan you. You are entitled to your private thoughts. In the garden we used telepathy because it was agreeable to both of us. Unless you assent, I won't scan you." There was something about Lyta that had Delenn's emotions in an uproar. It was infuriating that she couldn't grasp exactly what it was. She was stressed out and she knew it. The why of her stress was going to take some serious meditation. They finished the snack and drinks and started walking in the general direction of Delenn's apartment. The walk was in silence. As the apartment door opened Delenn told Lyta that she had some serious meditating to do. Lyta nodded and left. Inside her apartment Delenn set about preparing for meditations. ***** < Yes and her reaction was about what I expected. John is a soldier. He takes the unknown as it presents itself. Delenn doesn't like the unknown dropping in with no warning.> Lyta shrugged her shoulders and did a hand wave that indicated, maybe, maybe not. Raising an eyebrow, Smiling to herself Lyta left, all the while thinking worry wart'. Lyta went back to her office and spent the rest of the day reflecting on the Sheridans and how she was handling them. She loved both of them dearly and wanted everything to go well for them. Somewhere into the afternoon she heard Paul, ***** Lyta rang the bell on Delenn's apartment. Delenn opened the door and invited her in. "I am just fixing something for supper. Will you join me?" "Lyta, let's use vocal communication tonight." "As you wish." "It will take me some time to get used to hearing you in my mind. You have had a lifetime to master it. I have only just begun." Delenn set the table and brought the food. Lyta was pleased that it smelled wonderful. Whatever else Delenn might do, her cooking abilities were superb. Right up there with Michael Garibaldi's. They started the meal in silence, but that silence didn't last long. Delenn was eager to get to her questions. "You said both John and I would have telepathic abilities after our changes. What will those abilities be? I mean just how telepathic will we be?" "Something above a p-12. The abilities will be more than any psicorps personnel had and they will be more diverse." "How long will John live after the changes?" "I honestly don't know. Our research indicates that your life spans will be greater than any minbari or human that has ever lived up to now. I promise you will have time for very long conversations." "What will the retraining consist of?" "We have taken the psicorps training agendas and modified them to suit our purposes. The training may last several years. This won't be a problem since your lives will be greatly extended. It may seem like a long time now, but it really is necessary." "What exactly did you mean when you said your ship was sentient?" "That's a little harder. What you don't know about is the research into biological equipments' for a better name. We take raw tissues and try to develop living things to replace some of our mechanical devices. It is similar to what the Shadows did, but it doesn't involve using living beings." "I am afraid I really don't begin to understand." "When I said my ship was sentient, what I meant was that it can think on its own at a low level and is aware of itself. It is also permanently linked to me telepathically. I feel what it is doing. Its sensors are like an extension of my own senses. It can react to threats on its own. My ethical and moral values are what guide its final actions. It can react to a threat a thousand times faster than a ship with a full crew. It is in essence an extension of me. The major difference between it and a Shadow vessel is that there are no modifications necessary to interface with it. All you have to do is be accepted by it. A ship can be reassigned to another person in a matter of hours. We take very good care of our ships and they take very good care of us. The life expectancy of one of our ships is about a thousand years give or take a couple of centuries." "This is a lot to digest Lyta. It is going to take time." "I am here to help you in any way possible. Just ask. There will eventually be a ship assigned to you and John. It will respond only to the two of you." Lyta could feel the distress and anxiety that exuded from Delenn. She wasn't sure what was causing it, but she could wait for Delenn to broach the subject. They were finished with the meal. They sat and talked about old friends some of whom hadn't been seen in more than a decade. It was obvious to Lyta that Delenn was talking about everything except what was bothering her. It was getting late so Lyta took her leave and started home. As she left she mentally set up a part of her mind to make light contact with Delenn's mind for the purpose of monitoring her. It was hard to play by the rules when you could rewrite them. Delenn started thinking about her fear of losing John and the guilt she felt for being, to her point of view, very selfish. She had been preparing for this occasion for twenty years and now she had been told it was all for nothing. The relief she was feeling knowing she would not lose him after all was driving her up against an emotional wall. Maybe if she told Lyta how she felt, she might be able to help her come to terms with her guilt. How was she going to bring herself to even mention it. She was not accustomed to showing vulnerability, read that as weakness, to people, but Lyta was different. She didn't seem to want to sit in judgement of anyone, especially those she considered friends. She had been able to help Michael Garibaldi after he had been captured by the Shadows. She had also helped Susan Ivonava after the death of Marcus. thought Delenn as she drifted off to sleep. In her apartment entwined with her husband, Lyta smiled to herself. came Paul's question. During the next several weeks Delenn kept herself occupied with meditations and routine checks on John. She was wondering when they would begin her procedure. She had seen Lyta a number of times during the same period and had dinner and conversation with her and Paul. ****************************************************** Part B to follow From: "Aubrey W. Adkins" Subject: John and Delenn After 20 Years Part B Date: Tue, 19 Aug 1997 23:23:00 -0700 My Netscape 4 mailer limits message size to 32KB so I am sending this in two parts A & B Standard disclaimer-all characters in this story are owned by JMS, PTEN and/or WB. They can have them back anytime. All comments welcome Send comments to [xazqrten@norfolk.infi.net] Title: John and Delenn After 20 Years Part B There are no spoilers in this story. This story will make more sense if you have read "Redheaded Telepath." However, it can stand on its own. "--" = spoken words <--> = telepathy --' = emphasis With a look of concern on his face, In her apartment, Delenn was surprised by the door chimes. "Come in." The door opened and in walked Lyta. "Delenn I am going on a little trip and I want you to come with me." "Where are we going? When will we return?" "To Za'ha'dum or what's left of it and a few days." "Give me a few minutes to pack some clothing." Half an hour later they were in Lyta's shuttle on their way to her ship, an hour after arriving on Lyta's ship they were through Epsilon III's jumpgate and in hyperspace. "How long until we get there?" The thoughts caught Delenn off guard. "Lyta?" One look at Lyta told Delenn she was dead center on target. Delenn started to think about her worst fears of the past two decades. It wasn't long until her thoughts were a kaleidoscope of emotions, love, hate, fear, the whole shooting match. Lyta was staggered for a moment by the myriad images she perceived in Delenn's thoughts. It was going to be a real job getting it all sorted out, but it would be done. The strongest thoughts were those that Delenn had about the loss of John. She had hidden her real feelings about it from everyone but herself. Now, Lyta knew of them. She was studying Lyta's face. All she saw was a concerned friend. There was no indication that Lyta had even heard her thoughts, but she knew better. Except for possibly the Vorlons, Lyta was probably the most powerful telepath in this part of the galaxy. The more she thought about John the harder it was to keep her emotions in check. Thinking of John and his scheduled demise brought her almost to tears. Delenn was looking at Lyta and her eyes were filled with tears. It wasn't fair. She could handle this. She had handled it before. While thinking this, Lyta had moved to sit beside Delenn. She put her arms around her and held her close and rested her cheek against her hair and crest. When the crying started Delenn's thoughts became absolutely tumultuous. Their intensity was staggering for a non-telepath. The expression of her emotions through tears was new to Delenn. She was angry that she was displaying such weakness, yet, she was powerless to stop. How much later it was when she regained her composure Delenn did not know. She felt better than she had in years. She didn't for a moment believe that it was solely due to her massive crying spell. The stealthy hand of Lyta was involved. Lyta released Delenn and went back to her chair. Delenn looked at Lyta with astonishment. They had arrived at the position formerly occupied by Za'ha'dum several hours ago. Shaking her head Delenn thought, The wait wasn't very long. They had finished lunch and were having after dinner tea when the pirates showed up. They came through the jumpgate and headed straight toward the Whitestar. There were two Drakh mother ships and their fighters. The fighters were deploying preparing to attack the apparently helpless freighter. Watching the tactical projection at the front of the bridge, Delenn began throwing furtive looks at Lyta who was smiling. It wasn't a pleasant smile. It was the type used by children as they tortured helpless animals. This Lyta was scaring the living hell out of her. Is it worth continuing? From: "Aubrey W. Adkins" Subject: John and Delenn After 20 years Part C/? Date: Tue, 26 Aug 1997 22:32:08 -0700 My Netscape 4 mailer limits message size to 32KB so I am sending this in parts. Standard disclaimer-all characters in this story are owned by JMS, PTEN and/or WB. They can have them back anytime. All comments welcome Send comments to [xazqrten@norfolk.infi.net] Title: John and Delenn After 20 Years Part C There are no spoilers in this story. This story will make more sense if you have read "Redheaded Telepath." However, it can stand on its own. "--" = spoken words <--> = telepathy/thought '--' = emphasis Delenn was asleep. Stephen left the laboratory room and proceeded to Lyta's office. Entering Lyta's office Steven didn't wait to be invited to sit down. Mumbling to himself, Steven left. Lyta smiled. Jacking Steven's jaw could be fun. Mumbling to himself Paul went into the kitchen. She smiled. She was going to have to break herself of this habit. Jacking someone's jaw was fun, but she was getting hooked on it. Now she understood the Vorlons better. They had a sadistic sense of humor. Lyta went into the kitchen and snuggled up to Paul. She snuggled closer and nibbled on his ear. Damned male physiology. He took her into his arms and proceeded to kiss her passionately. Next morning when Paul awakened, Lyta was already gone. He called in and took the day off. After nights like last night he simply wasn't up to going to the office. Paul had heard jokes about making love until a man's brains were gone. He began to feel that a cat scan might be in order. **************************************************************************** "Good morning Mrs. Blaine. To what do we owe the pleasure of this visit," said the young security man. "I am just doing some shopping," replied Lyta. Lyta had arrived on the regular planet-B5 shuttle and the young man was making idle conversation. It was apparent that he was admiring her appearance. As she departed the customs area Lyta sent a thought to the youngster. He felt a sensation of pleasure that almost sent him into ecstasy she mused. came a response from Paul. Paul was sweet, but his sense of humor could use some working on. She hadn't been on the station in almost five years. Some of the shops had changed. New owners and merchandise. She had heard it was still a hotbed of intrigue of all sorts. She thought it would be fun to just sit at a cafe table and watch what went on for a while. She had been sitting at a table nursing a drink for over an hour when she became aware that someone was taking more than a passing interest in her. She never turned to look. She used the trick of scanning someone who was looking in the direction she wanted. Sure enough there he was, a nondescript fellow, just a bit too well dressed to be a lurker. She did a light surface scan of the man and concluded that he was going to be trouble. He would regret it. Giving the man no more thought her attention was drawn to an argument between two shopkeepers. Lots of shouting and shoving until security arrived then they went into their shops. Lyta noted the younger of the security guards. He was handsome and he had been respectful to the shopkeepers in spite of their tirade of abuse. Lyta finished the drink and departed the Zoccolo area. She intended to have a walk in the gardens and give her shadow a chance to reveal himself. She got as far as the second passageway from the Zoccolo before her way was blocked by two burly, badly dressed men. The man she had observed earlier was behind her and he wasn't alone. "What can I do for you gentlemen," she said in a soft voice? "You can start by handing over your money and jewelry," said the larger of the men in front of her. "If I give you my money and jewelry will you let me go?" "A lady as pretty as you must be worth something to someone." "You have answered all my questions. If you don't leave now, you won't be able to leave under your power." Sneering at her the larger man said, "I will give you this lady, you have balls." With that he moved toward her. His screams and those of his associates must have been heard in Command & Control. They were writhing on the floor and screaming as loud as was possible when security arrived, about two minutes later. Lyta was still standing where she had been accosted. The first security personnel on the scene were the two she had recently observed in the Zoccolo. As they arrived the men stopped screaming and thrashing around. The young men looked at the muggers then at Lyta. "What happened ma'am?" "They tried to rob me of my money and jewelry." "What happened to them?" "They changed their minds." "Did you do this?" "Yes." "How? What kind of weapon did you use?" "I didn't use a weapon." Just then an older woman in a security uniform arrived and took charge of the scene. The young security man related his conversation with Lyta. "Ma'am could I have your indenti-card please," asked the woman. She ran the card through the scanner. "Is the captain aware of your presence on the station?" "No. I'm here to do some shopping. Why would your captain be interested in me?" "Mrs. Blaine, you are a diplomatic representative of Epsilon III, the captain has standing orders to be notified when diplomatic representatives arrive and depart Babylon 5." "The young man at customs ran my card through his scanner. Maybe his device was malfunctioning. I hope no one is in trouble because of this." "No ma'am. It happens occasionally. The captain just doesn't want any one getting a shot at a diplomat if it can be prevented. You may even know the captain, he was a young lieutenant when you left the station about twenty years ago. Captain Corwin, he is being promoted to admiral soon. He had high recommendations from John and Delenn Sheridan and Admiral Susan Ivonava. I believe you know them." "That was a long time ago." Will you come to security and sign the complaint form ma'am." "Of course." On her way to security she conversed with the young security man that had caught her eye. By the time they had arrived at security she had decided she would take him with her. The thought that he might want to have something to say about it never occurred to her. She was used to getting what she wanted. While the complaint was being typed the comm panel chirped and the captain asked Mrs. Blaine to come to his office in C&C. In the captain's office Lyta said, "congratulations Captain Corwin." "Thank you ma'am." "Call me Lyta, please. Ma'am makes me feel old." Considering the fact that Lyta must be pushing sixty and looked to be thirty, Corwin chuckled. "No one has seen you in more than a decade. Are you really only shopping?" "Yes, captain, but not for regular merchandise." "May I ask what it is you are shopping for?" "Of course. People." "People??" "Yes." "What are you recruiting for?" "As you know, no one migrates to Epsilon III. However, we like to bring in new people occasionally and they must meet some very strict standards both physically and especially mentally. I do the some of the recruiting and evaluating of those recruits." "Seen any on the station that interest you?" "Yes. I will fill you in after I have completed my task. I won't steal anybody. I promise." Remembering what he knew that she could do from the past, he doubted anyone could do anything to stop her. "Please come and see me before you leave." "You have my word captain." Back in the Zoccolo, Lyta bought another drink and sat at a table watching the people go about their business. There were more different species to be seen here than anywhere else in this part of the galaxy. It was a smorgous board of opportunities. There was much interplay amongst the merchants and customers. A young narn and centari were sitting at a table across the way and were engrossed in a discussion. Even after two decades it was uncommon to see these two species doing anything together. Their's wasn't a history of friendship and cooperation. This fact alone would have caused them to catch her attention. Lyta walked over to their table. Both young men, the narn and the centari looked up at her and asked what they could do for her. She asked permission to sit at their table. With a nod both of them motioned for her to have a seat. "I am curious," she said, "it is not often that I see a narn and centari sharing a table." "Ma'am," said the narn, "the war has been over for two decades. My friend and I never had anything to do with it. It was the politicians who started the damned thing." The centari nodded agreement. Their thoughts were strong enough for her to read them as the truth even without scanning them. "Have you given thought to what you want to do in the future," she asked? "Yes ma'am, we have," said the centari. "We have been discussing some business ventures," replied the narn. "Have either of you thought about diplomatic service," she inquired? "No ma'am," they replied in unison. "I know of opportunities for the right people in both diplomatic service and the business propositions that accompany that service. Might you be interested," she asked? Both young men looked at her with open suspicion. "If you will give me your names and addresses I will have one of my representatives contact you for further discussions. "Ma'am, just who do you represent," asked the narn. "Epsilon III," answered the lady. She knew she had their attention. "Ma'am, you indeed have our interest," said the narn. They gave Lyta their names and addresses on the station. She thanked them and left. The young men watched her leave and wondered who had smiled on them. Lyta strolled through other parts of the station observing the people who were out and about. Her meandering finally brought her to the quarters of the Epsilon III ambassador. As she approached the door it opened and a voice in her head said, she found herself in the presence of a middle aged lady of about 60 years. The lady handed her a glass of juice and took a seat on the other end of the couch. < There is an unannounced meeting between the narn and centari heads of state tomorrow. There is going to be a dinner with the ambassadors as part of the festivities marking a new relationship to be announced concerning the narns and centaris.> Finishing her juice, Lyta took her leave and continued her self guided tour of the station. ****************************************************************************** "Admiral Ivonava, welcome to Babylon 5," said Commander Sally Wilcox, "the captain is tied up with the centari and narn ambassadors, so I am to see to your accommodations and other needs before the ceremonies." Smiling at the past pictures brought to mind by the mention of the narn and centari ambassadors in the same room said, "lead on commander. Any further information about when Londo and G'kar will arrive." "Londo and G'kar?" "Yeah, I knew ‘em before they became important." Susan noticed the two security personnel that followed unobtrusively at a discrete distance. Less obtrusive were the two in front. By way of explanation, "captain's orders admiral." M T C O O O R M E E Comments? From: "Aubrey W. Adkins" Subject: Title: John and Delenn After 20 Years Part D Date: Mon, 01 Sep 1997 22:17:23 -0700 Title: John and Delenn After 20 Years Part D There are no spoilers in this story. This story will make more sense if you have read "Redheaded Telepath." However, it can stand on its own. "--" = spoken words <--> = telepathy [--] = self thoughts ‘--' = emphasis Lyta had returned to the Zocolo, bought a drink and sat down. She had just settled into watching the various beings going about their business when she noticed the small entourage entering the Zocolo from the direction of customs and immigration. There were two security guards in front and two bringing up the rear. There was a commander and what must be Admiral Ivonava walking in between them. She could read the admiral's irritation it was so strong. It must chafe Susan to be treated this way. As the group exited the area Lyta went back to people watching. About fifteen minutes later, Just over an hour later Paul and Mark came through customs into the Zocolo. Spotting Lyta, they went straight to her table and sat down. "Are you going to explain what this is all about?" "Of course. Mark you are unattached and about sixty. I need your help." "Before I say yes, am I going to regret this?" "I don't think so." She showed them the images of the admiral and her entourage. "Susan Ivonava has never liked being treated like she couldn't take care of herself." "Okay, but what does that have to do with Mark." She showed them images of her meeting with the captain. "Since I can obviously take care of myself, he couldn't force me to accept station security as bodyguards. Protocol leaves Susan at his mercy in that respect." "What does that have to do with me?' "I am going to have you replace the security guards.' "Lee, he has duties and a job on the planet. You can't just be high handed about this." Her response was to raise one beautiful eyebrow. "Will you just meet her before you say no, Mark?" Astounded at being asked instead of told, Mark replied, "okay. Is no an option for me?" "Yes. If you don't want to do this, I won't hold it against you. With Susan, it is possible she may reject the idea." ************************************************************* The doorbell chimed in the quarters assigned to Admiral Ivonava. "Yes!" "Admiral Ivonava, I am the ambassador for Epsilon III, may I come in?" The door opened on Susan's command and Willa entered. "What can I do for you ambassador?" "Well, first, call me Willa. I have been asked to invite you on a guided tour of the station by an old friend of yours." "You know I commanded this place once upon a time, don't you?" "Yes, but that was a long time ago, things change." "Yes, I suppose they do." "Who is this friend?" "She asked me not to tell you that. She wants to surprise you." "Okay, I'm game. Let me put something on." "Admiral, not the uniform, please." Smiling at the older lady,[ older hell, she's about my age] Susan put on a plain lightweight pantsuit. "This do?" "Yes ma'am." "Willa, call me Susan. When we are with the rest of the representatives we can use titles. I like being just plain Susan." As they left Susan's quarters, they picked up the security escort. The small entourage headed toward the Zocolo. As they entered the Zocolo, Susan started scanning the faces of the people she could see. She didn't see anyone she recognized. Will was guiding her toward a table located near the exit to the customs area. They appeared to be heading toward a table with two young men and a young woman. The young woman had red hair the color of brilliantly polished copper. Susan would bet that in natural light the hair color would blind you. She was thinking, They were about twenty feet from the table when the voice had spoken inside her head and Susan stopped in mid stride so quickly that one of the bodyguards almost stumbled over her. She stared at the redhead. [Lyta!] The redhead looked her straight in the eyes and smiled. Susan recognized the old familiar smile. Taking offered seats, Willa and Susan sat down. Susan was having trouble adjusting to a Lyta that looked young enough to be her daughter. "Part of the modifications, Susan." "Lyta?" "Of course, who else would I be?" Susan was speechless for a moment. Drinks that obviously been ordered before she arrived were brought to the table. "Susan, you have met Willa Armstead, our representative to B-5. You know my husband Paul. This is Mark Baker, one of my associates. Mark. Let me introduce Admiral Susan Ivonava. She, Paul and I go way back." Susan acknowledged the introductions. "Mark, you are one of Lyta's associates?" Mark, noting that Susan's hair had not yet started to go grey also noted that in spite of her age Susan was beautiful, said, "I am not sure associate is quite the correct term. I was one of those frozen telepaths she rescued." "Susan, don't buy that, I am nothing, image Mark is fostering. He was trained as a ranger and is the equal of Marcus in hand to hand combat. He is also on fine engineer, and he is not as young as he looks." Susan didn't need math to realize that Mark must be close to her age, even if he looked as young as Lyta. "If you want you can call Captain Corwin and give the guards the night off." "That won't be necessary prime minister," said Captain Corwin, who had approached unnoticed. Lifting his comm badge to his lips Corwin notified security that the guards were being dismissed until furthur notice. The guards saluted and departed. "Captain you sneaked up on us," said Lyta. "You are joking." "Not at all. You present no danger. I am always scanning for emotions that convey danger. You don't exude any, so I really wasn't aware that you were there. Besides the guards were watching all directions." "You have a lot of faith in those guards." "They were alert, captain. You have good security people here," replied Lyta. "I take it all of you will be at the dinner tomorrow evening." Lyta noted a look in Willa's eyes as she looked at Captain Corwin. She had seen that look before many years ago. It was the look that Delenn always gave John when she was pleased with him. She also noted the casual way Corwin had put his hand on Willa's Shoulder. "Yes we will." "Admiral, ambassador, prime minister, gentlemen, good evening." "He was the hardest working junior officer I have ever had," said Susan. "He was also just about the smartest. I wonder why he never married?" "For the same reason that you never married Susan," said Willa. "His career. He didn't feel right about trying to drag a family around wherever he was assigned. He didn't think it was fair to a wife and children. At his age now, it is a little late to think about those things." "You sure seem to know a lot about him." "I have found it advantageous to learn all I can about the people I must deal with," said Willa, with just a hint of blushing showing in her face. "Yeah, sure." Looking furatively at Lyta, Lyta was taken back at the fear expressed in the response. She had known Willa from the days when they had interned with Psi Corps. She had always been a very hard worker with an almost fanatic attitude toward responsibility and her attention to details was enviable. Her devotion to her duties had prevented her from ever developing any kind of relationship with anyone. Her friends could be counted on one hand with a thumb and four fingers left over. Oh, she was respected by everyone who knew her and she was as good a workmate as one could want, but she had no social life, until now. Willa was a P-13, she had been born into Psi Corps. Her abilities had manifested themselves before her first birthday. She was the youngest person ever to begin Psi Corps training. She never had a mother and father in the conventional sense, only instructors and tutors. She was forced to bear several children that were taken from her at birth. Somewhere, she has adult children she has never seen. Lyta made a promise to turn earth upside down for them as soon as this upcoming treaty session was concluded. The others at the table had noted fear in Willa's eyes. Paul and Mark had not ‘heard' the exchange. "Prime minister?" asked Susan. "It is only a honorary title Susan, I am only a figurehead, so to speak." "Don't believe her for a minute, Susan," said Paul. "I don't," replied Susan. "No one defers to a figurehead the way people defer to you." "If I may be excused prime minister, I have duties to attend before the meetings take place tomorrow," said Willa. "Of course Willa," replied Lyta. Lyta had a look of concern on her face. "What's the matter, Lee?" asked Paul. "I think I unwittingly pulled a John Sheridan," answered Lyta. Everyone looked at her with perplexed expressions. "Didn't anyone notice anything about the captain's presence?" "Like what, Lee?" All eyes were on Lyta. "Didn't any of you see the way she looked at the captain? Didn't you notice where his hands were while he was talking?" Their expressions said,'NO!' Lyta explained about Willa's background. Disbelief was the expression looking back at her from her friends, and husband's faces. "She is the most powerful natural telepath I have ever heard of. I asked her telepathically if she and the captain have dinner often. She is afraid of something." "Given your position, that question must be terrifying for her. She must think you are questioning her competence," said Susan. "Never!" was Lyta's reply. "Susan I was going to suggest that you let Mark accompany you on your tour of the station." " I accept. You don't mind do you, Mark?" "No ma'am, not at all." "Mark, call me Susan." Excusing themselves, Lyta and Paul headed toward the ambassador's quarters. "Is she going where I think she is going?" asked Mark. "Yes. She is going to try undoing a misunderstanding before it can destroy someone she likes and respects very much." "She makes a great friend." "She makes an even worse enemy." Finishing their drinks, they got up and left for the unofficial tour. ************************************************************ As they approached the ambassador's quarters, Lyta gave Paul the images of what she had said to Willa and her response. Paul was confused. There had been nothing threatening in Lyta's question. As they arrived at her door the door opened and they went inside. Willa was sitting at a desk just finishing writing something. She turned around and handed the sheet of paper to Lyta. It was her resignation. It was to become effective upon completetion the trade talks that were being conducted over the next couple of days. Paul looked at Lyta. She looked like she had been hit by a truck. The hurt in her eyes was too obvious. Lyta said nothing. She simply turned and left. , thought Paul. He left the apartment and followed Lyta. Paul caught up to Lyta in less than a minute. ******************************************************************* Ten minutes later they were in Captain Corwin's office. "What can I do for you prime minister?" asked Captain Corwin. "First try calling me Lyta. What I really need is some help from you," answered Lyta. "I will help if I can. Tell me what you need." "I need for you to help me keep Willa in her present position." Looking confused, Corwin said, "I don't understand. What would I have to do with that?" "You have been seeing Willa socially?" "We have dinners together, but that is as far as it has gone. Is there a problem with that?" "None whatsoever. In fact I think it is great." "Then what is the problem?" "I asked her if you and she had dinner often. She misunderstood the question." "I don't understand, seems like a straightforward question to me. How did she misunderstand?" "Captain, how much do you know about Willa?" "She is your ambassador, she never married and has never been much of one to socialize. We have never really discussed her background. We talk about me and mine a great deal. She manages to change the subject when I ask any personal questions." I am going to tell you about her, then you will know why she misunderstood me. Corwin was not really prepared for the onslaught of images that filled his mind. He had never been subjected to direct mental contact before. Corwin nodded, yes. "I need you to help me convince her that I truly approve of the present relationship between the two of you and whatever it might lead to." "I had no idea she was a telepath." "Does it make a difference?" "No. In fact, what you showed me just makes me love her that much more. She must be a very strong person." "She is. I don't think she can stand the idea of losing you. I ,do, understand that feeling." "The idea of losing her is not one I like to think about. She is the first woman I have ever seriously considered sharing my life with. My infatuation with the then Commander Ivonava not withstanding. I can't make any promises, Lyta." Paul and Lyta left Captain Corwin's office. ***************************************************************************** As Mark and Susan left the Zocolo, two men watched them go, but they didn't follow. "You used to run this place didn't you?" "Yep, I was John's XO and I came back as CO about two years later.' "Why didn't you take over from him?" "Two reasons. First I was a brand new junior captain, and while I had experience in handling the diplomatic functions at lower levels, I had no actual independent command experience. I had always filled in for John. Second, I wanted to get a ship and be my own boss, too damned far away for the upper command structure to hassle. It was a good move on my part, because when the B-5 CO position became available again, I was the most qualified captain in earthforce to take the job." "You have had a very distinguished career, Susan. I am sure your family must be very proud of you." Mark noticed a pained look in her eyes when he said that. "I am sure they would be, Mark, if I had a family." "I am sorry. I didn't mean to open old wounds." "No need to apologize, Mark. You couldn't have known." Mark kept asking questions about Susan's experiences and adventures. He never spoke of himself and he listened closely to her every answer. They had been wandering around the station for the better part of two hours when Susan said, "Mark, I am getting just a bit hungry." "Now that you mention, it so am I." At this time they stopped and took a check on their bearings. They were in one of the gardens that were located about B-5. Mark sat down on a bench and Susan followed. "These gardens were a prima idea. The planners were thinking right when they included them." "Mark, what do you do? Lyta said you were an engineer. What kind of engineer are you?" Looking uncomfortable, Mark said, "I am sorry Susan. I am not allowed to talk about it." Looking surprised, Susan said, "I understand." She knew that trade secrets were every bit as valuable as any military secret, maybe even more so. Mark changed the subject back to Susan. She had noticed this some time ago. [This guy doesn't like to talk about himself.] Susan gasped, "you scanned me." Susan had never talked about herself so much to anyone before. She hated to admit it, but Mark was beginning to appeal to her. She was struck by how much he reminded her of Marcus. She had been severely disappointed to find out about Marcus's feelings for her only after he had married someone else. She had never taken him seriously. She realized that her career would have kept them apart anyway. His change of subject caught her completely off guard. Mark got up and offered her his hand. She took it and got up, however, she didn't let go of his hand. They were observed as they left the garden. Arriving at Earheart's they were immediately shown to the best table in the house. Susan had been recognized by the proprietor. "Have you ever eaten here Mark?" "No. This is only the second time I have been on B-5 since Lyta freed us from the Shadow implants. I have never eaten in any of the restaurants on the station.' "You will like the food. It used to be about the best on B-5." As they talked over drinks and hors d'oerves, they noticed the captain, who was wearing civilian clothes, and Willa Armstead arrive. They motioned the waiter to convey an offer to share their table with him and his guest. The captain accepted. After being seated the captain ordered drinks for himself and Willa. "It's nice to see you out and about captain," said Susan. "I don't do this very often, admiral. This is the first time Miss Armstead and I have had dinner in a public place. How is your station tour doing?" "Very well. Mark has been excellent company and captain, please call me Susan. I am not the admiral tonight." Willa, noticing the way Susan looked at Mark and spoke of him, "I take it, you didn't have any problems like Lyta did?" "No. We had a nice quiet tour and a short stop in the main garden. I bored Mark to death with stories about my career. Fortunately, he is a good listener." "Have you known, the ambassador very long, captain?" asked Mark. "Ever since I took command. She was already assigned here as your ambassador." Dinner arrived and as Susan had promised it was outstanding. The conversation had been pleasant and personal in a friendly manner, just friends getting together and swapping gossip and stories. As the captain and Willa said good night and departed, Susan said, "John and Delenn all over again.' " I don't understand the comparison, Susan." "During the Shadow/Vorlon War, Captain ‘Starkiller' Sheridan fell in love with the minbari ambassador. It took them two years to finally get things moved to a point that they married. They courted one another and fought several wars at the same time." "Oh." Susan and Mark left Earheart's and headed for her quarters. At her door Susan turned to Mark and asked, "come in for a nightcap?" Walking into Susan's quarters, Susan made weak drinks and handed one to Mark. She sat down on the other end of the couch which was much to close for Mark's comfort. MTC From: "Aubrey W. Adkins" Subject: John and Delenn After 20 Years Part E Date: Thu, 04 Sep 1997 21:27:50 -0700 Standard disclaimer-all characters in this story are owned by JMS, PTEN and/or WB. They can have them back anytime. All comments welcome Send comments to [xazqrten@norfolk.infi.net] Title: John and Delenn After 20 Years Part E There are no spoilers in this story. "--" = spoken words <--> = telepathy [--] = self thoughts ‘--' = emphasis They had arrived at the door to the captain's quarters. They had traded small talk as usual. "Will you come in for awhile, Willa?" "I can't do that, captain. It would cause talk." "Except for tonight we have always had dinner in your quarters with your aide present. If I didn't know better, I would think you don't trust me." "We have been over this before. Trust has nothing to do with it. I will promise that after the negotiations are finished, I will use your first name and will share a nightcap with you. Is that fair enough?" Looking a little disappointed, the captain said, "yes. Let me accompany you to your quarters." They made the walk in silence. At her door, the captain bade Willa goodnight and returned to his quarters. Willa already knew that Lyta and Paul were inside. She entered her quarters and went straight to her bedroom. She did not say anything to Lyta or Paul. Willa took a shower and prepared to go to bed. She was hurting inside, but she could shield her feelings even from a P-12. In the front room Lyta was well aware of Willa's feelings. Paul couldn't sense them. Lyta had been the closest thing to a friend that Willa had when she was a youngster in Psi Corps. Willa didn't know that Lyta actually thought of herself as her friend. Her years in the corps had taught her that when a superior questioned something you were doing, you were in big trouble. The Psi Corps testing never showed her to be more than a P-7. She was strong enough and smart enough to fool the testing personnel. They occasionally had glimpses of her true abilities, but never anything that could be confirmed. without warning, Willa felt waves of pleasure wash over her. It was sheer ecstasy Willa was asleep in five minutes. She dreamed very vividly. Lyta shared her dreams and knew that things would work out for the better. Paul felt a sharp pain as Lyta elbowed him in the ribs. *********************************************************************** In Ivonava's quarters, Mark was nursing his drink while Ivonava explained to him why she never married. He realized that maybe Susan used the ‘Ice Queen' persona to keep people at a distance. By her own admissions, most of the people she had loved had died rather tragically. The only exception seemed to have been Marcus, but since he had fallen in love with and married someone else, she didn't really count him. Susan was looking at him intensely. She knew he was a telepath, so he expected her to keep a tight rein on her feelings. He could sense the emotional turmoil going on within her. She wanted more than a nightcap, however she wouldn't start anything that didn't have commitment written all over it, and she was terrified of a commitment. It was difficult to imagine someone who had been through what she had experienced over the years being afraid of anything. "Do you want to discuss it?" "Discuss what?" "You are boiling with emotions. Do you want to discuss them?" "No. They are none of your business." "Thanks for the dinner company and the drink." Mark walked over to the comm panel, "security,?" "This security go ahead." "Would you send the guards to Admiral Ivonava's quarters, please." "They are on their way, sir." Mark walked over to one of the two chairs and sat down. "Why, Mark?" "It's none of your business." Susan was taken aback by the answer and the sharpness of tone with which it was delivered. "I see." It was the first time in almost two decades that someone had treated her that way. She realized she didn't like her own medicine. The doorbell chimed to announce the arrival of the security guards. After acknowledgment to the admiral, they took up their stations. As Mark walked to the door he never looked back. As the door closed behind him, Susan went to the bar and made a very stiff drink, [damned, damned, damned]. She had managed to do it again. From: "Aubrey W. Adkins" Subject: John and Delenn After 20 Years Part F Date: Sun, 07 Sep 1997 18:29:16 -0700 All comments welcome Send comments to [xazqrten@norfolk.infi.net] All characters/places/persons not belonging to the writer are the sole properties of their owners, PTEN, WB, JMS, and will be turned over to the owners at the request of their agents. All other characters/places/persons are public domain. Title: John and Delenn After 20 Years Part F There are no spoilers in this story. "--" = spoken words <--> = telepathy [--] = self thoughts --' = emphasis Willa came out of her bedroom and was greeted by Lyta. . They were having breakfast in the staff dining room. Lyta and Paul were sitting across from Willa and the captain. Admiral Ivonava walked into the dining room and was invited to share the table. "Good morning, captain," she said acknowledging the others presence. "Susan, how did your tour go yesterday?" asked Lyta. "I had an excellent time. We even had dinner with the captain and Willa." Captain Corwin asked, "where is Mark this morning?' Lyta answered, "he went back to Epsilon III last night." Susan asked, "how? There weren't any shuttles to the planet last night." "It wasn't scheduled. He used my personal shuttle. He wanted to get some rest before going to work this morning. His reason for being here has been completed," answered Lyta. "Oh. I had wanted to talk to him before he left," answered Susan. "Captain, what is the new schedule for the narns and centauris?" "For one thing, Emperor Mollori and First Minister G'kar are not coming to Babylon 5 after all. They will be meeting either on the Whitestar Alpha or Epsilon III." "Why the change?" "Security considerations. There is evidence that there will be an assassination attempt on them if they come aboard the station. The alternative options rule that out." "Lyta?" "That's the plan, Susan. We can guarantee their safety." "Just how are you going to do that?" "We have complete control over whom we allow on Epsilon III. Besides, on a planet full of telepaths you would have to be mentally deficient to even think about it. Remember, on Epsilon III the usual rules governing telepaths and scanning don't apply." "I didn't know that." Lyta smiled at that remark. They finished breakfast and the gathering broke up as each person went about taking of the day's activities. ****************************************************************************** "Captain, the centauri flagship is coming through the jumpgate," said Commander Wilcox. "Park em over next to the Whitestar. Do the same with the narns, Sally." "Yes sir." "Captain, we are being hailed by the centauri, it's the emperor." "Put it through to my office." "Good morning, Emperor Mollari." "Ahh captain, good morning to you. I see G'kar is late as usual." "The narns should be arriving shortly, your highness." "Ah yes, here they are now." "Captain, the narn flagship is here" "Acknowledged commander." "Captain, I was informed that you wished to change the location of the treaty signing." "Yes, your highness, but it wasn't my idea." "Captain, First minister G'kar is asking to speak with you. Sir" [Asking? Since when did heads of state ever ask' for anything?] "Put him through and tie the circuits together." "Captain, who is responsible for the changing or our plans?" demanded G'kar. "First minister, emperor, the change has been orchestrated by the prime minister of Epsilon III. She is concerned about security aboard Babylon 5 and how that impacts your safety." Both Londo and G'kar tried to talk at once. "Just who does he think he is," demanded both men. "It's not a he. It's a she." "She!!!" exclaimed both men at once. "When did Epsilon III get a prime minister?" asked both men in unison. "Gentlemen, apparently your ambassadors have not kept your governments advised of the changing situations. Epsilon III is becoming a very influential force in interstellar business." "Captain, we have no Epsilon III embassy or representative on Narn," stated G'kar. "The same is true of Centauri Prime, captain." "I am sorry gentlemen, but that isn't really any of my business. I can put you in touch with her if you wish." "I wish," came from both men. The captain punched a few buttons and transferred the incoming signals to Willa's quarters. "Good morning gentlemen," said Willa. "What can I do for you?" In a demanding voice, before G'kar could get a word in edgeways, "who is responsible for changing the itinerary, without consulting us?" Stepping into the camera's area of view, Lyta said, "I am." "Who are you?" asked both men. "For someone who propositioned me, you gents have short memories." G'kar spoke first, "Lyta Alexander. I remember you. You still look like you did when I first met you." "Baa, G'kar you old fool, that can't be her. She would be sixty by now." "Londo, I can still give you a nightmare that will keep you screaming for the rest of your life." "It is her, but I still think it is a trick of some sort." "I want to see both of you alone on the Whitestar in a about half an hour." Both men mentally noted that it wasn't a request. The tone of voice was what in effect made it an order. Neither man had taken an order from anyone in almost twenty years. Their interest was showing on their faces. Willa had noticed that Lyta gave orders to everyone, as if anything else never occurred to her. Even when she asked it came out as an order. [No wonder I misunderstood her question about the dinners with Donald.] Aboard the Whitestar, Willa's aide made drinks for Londo and G'kar. "Gentlemen, will you join me for a snack and a drink?" asked Lyta. Both men looked surprised, but they sat down and looked at Lyta with questions in their eyes. As the aide served the snacks and drinks Lyta began talking. "I will be short and to the point. I have information that makes me believe there is to be a major effort to kill both of you today. There are apparently some factions on both sides that think another war between you would be very profitable. Other factions on both sides see an opportunity for revenge and justice. I can see how they might feel that way, but we all know that scenario hasn't worked in the past and has even less chance of working now. I will make the data available to both of you for inspection and analysis. If you don't agree with our conclusions, I will drop plans to have this meeting on Epsilon III." "Just what makes you think Epsilon III is any safer than Babylon 5?" demanded Londo. Lyta looked at G'kar. The same question was written all over his face. "We have complete control of who comes and goes from the planet. We telepathically scan everyone who is allowed to come there. It is impossible to get to the planet's surface without being destroyed by the planetary defenses, except in the main city and entry there is by invitation only." "I refuse to be scanned!" yelled both simultaneously. "You won't be. Londo, G'kar, you and your personal aides won't be scanned. Your purpose for being here is too important to allow anything to go wrong. You are also going to be briefed on matters that are sure to impact both your societies." "This briefing, it concerns the treaty, yes?" drawled Londo. "Very much so. While I am at it, I want you to meet Willa Armstead. She is our ambassador to Babylon 5, and an old personal friend of mine. She deals with both of your ambassador on the station. I am surprised you were completely unaware of Epsilon III's rise in politics and trade. "It seems that you have managed to do so with very little attention being paid," commented G'kar. "Yes, you are a stealthy society," drawled Londo. "Didn't we help both of you deal with some shadow leftovers?" Both men nodded yes. "Shall we adjourn to the planet and get down to serious business?" They nodded assent. ************************************************************************ They had arrived in Lyta's shuttle, so there were no customs inspections or immigration checks. Lyta led the way straight to the briefing room. It would serve for the treaty signing. Susan and Captain Corwin were already there. The briefing was conducted by Lyta's head of interplanetary security who also doubled as leader of the rangers. She covered all they had learned about the Drakh and several of the species working with them. There was a separate briefing concerning the threats that the Drakh and their allies presented to the narn regime and centauri republic. Londo and G'kar asked many questions. It was obvious to both men that close cooperation between their respective worlds was a must. "You were singled out for these briefings because your governments are the best prepared to fight this menace," said Lyta. With her last statement, the earthmen and Lyta's people left G'kar, Londo and their aides to hammer out some fine details of the treaty. ************************************************************************ With that she started walking at a brisk pace. Willa and Susan had trouble keeping up. Ten minutes later they were standing in a room in a very restricted part of the medical facility. Dr. Franklin was explaining to Susan what she was seeing. What she was seeing were the isochambers holding John and Delenn Sheridan. Susan's jaw dropped just a bit. Lyta explained about the triluminaries. Susan was having trouble absorbing what she was seeing and hearing. [Hell of an answer.] As they were leaving the medical facility, Mark walked up to them. He looked at Susan and said, "you wanted to talk?" "Yes." Lyta and Willa walked away. "It's your turn." "Mark, I owe you a sincere apology. I acted badly last night. I have been able to function all these years by keeping people at a distance. Many are the times I have regretted it. I would like to try again." "Look me up the next time you are on Epsilon III." "I had hoped you might escort me to the dinner tonight." "Thanks for the invitation, but I have other commitments." Susan did not show the disappointment that she felt. Susan followed directions and found herself back at the briefing room just as Lyta and Willa were returning. **If she had known how long that would be...** ************************************************************************* They were just entering the briefing room as G'kar and Londo were coming back in. Susan had enjoyed the tour and had been fascinated by the things that were being developed. She didn't remember the visit to John's and Delenn's room and if questions she couldn't tell anyone anything specific about what she did remember seeing. They had bickered for two hours, but finally were emerging from their meeting. One of the hangups had been the request that Epsilon III be allowed to recruit personnel from their worlds. "G'kar, this will most likely be our last meeting. You will have to deal with my successor," said Londo. "Mollari, he can't be any worse than you. Who is he?" asked G'kar. "Vir Cotto." "Mollari, I like him." Looking at G'kar, "ah ha, as the humans would say, hell just froze over." "Your highness, first minister, will you be attending the state dinner on Babylon 5?" asked Lyta. "I would enjoy that," answered Londo. "I will attend," said G'kar. "I will take you back to your ships," said Lyta. "Are you going to attend?" asked G'kar. "Of course," answered Lyta. "Gentlemen, if you will follow me." "You use our titles now. Why?" asked Londo. "As of today you have earned them." answered Lyta. MTC From: "Aubrey W. Adkins" Subject: John and Delenn After 20 Years Part G Date: Sat, 13 Sep 1997 22:48:57 -0700 All comments welcome Send comments to [xazqrten@norfolk.infi.net] All characters/places/persons not belonging to the writer are the sole properties of their owners, PTEN, WB, JMS, and will be turned over to the owners at the request of their agents. All other characters/places/persons are public domain. Title: John and Delenn After 20 Years Part G There are no spoilers in this story. "--" = spoken words <--> = telepathy [--] = self thoughts --' = emphasis Back in her quarters Susan received a gold channel communication from earth alliance headquarters. "I am sorry Susan, but the Ronoake must depart immediately in order to rendezvous with the transport ship Bullway. You will transfer to the Bullway for return to earth. I know it screws up your plans, but it can't be helped. An emergency has come up and the Ronoake is the nearest cruiser in the area." "Admiral Brown, please hold for one minute." replied Susan "C&C, this Admiral Ivonava. Locate the captain for me ASAP." "What do you need Admiral?" asked Captain Corwin, looking off screen at Willa. "Donald, something has come up and I must leave immediately. I am sorry, please accept my sincerest apologies." "Donald, why don't you ask Lyta for assistance," asked Willa? Captain Corwin nodded. Willa relayed the conversation to her. In Susans quarters, "Robert, my old friend Lyta Blaine will transport me and my aide back to earth in Whitestar Alpha." "Will it be safe?" "Safer than a squadron of cruisers." "You are authorized to return by that means. Just check in when you get here." ****************************************************** "I want to thank you for the added security forces, Lyta," said Captain Corwin. "My pleasure captain. We can't afford any problems tonight." Emperor Mollari was approaching Lyta and the Captain. "You look absolutely stunning prime minister. Good evening captain." "Your highness, please call me Mrs. Blaine this evening. This evening belongs to you, First Minister G'kar and Captain Corwin." "You are too kind." "Yes, she is," said a fast approaching G'kar. "G'kar, you need a drink,' said Mollari. "No, make that two drinks." "Just what I have come to expect from a centauri, alcohol for everything." "Have you two decided who gets to speak first," asked Lyta? "Or should I flip a credit chip?" "He can go first," said Londo. G'kar nodded acceptance. Admiral Ivonava was approaching the group, she was in her best full dress uniform. "Good evening ladies and gentlemen." "Admiral would you care for a drink," asked a server. "Vodka on the rocks, please." "Lyta, Willa you aren't drinking tonight?" "Susan, would you really want a pair of drunk high powered telepaths on your hands," asked Lyta? "No, I don't think so." About a half an hour later everyone had been seated and Captain Corwin was doing introductions of the honored guests. G'kar and Londo gave speeches that were first class by anyone's standards. Their long years of hard work had finally borne the fruit that both knew would help bury their planet's animosity toward one another. Following the speeches Susan made a formal presentation of Donald's first star and a new coat complete with his new stripes of rank to go with it. There was much applause at the end of those ceremonies. The dinner went off without a hitch. Only security knew that a dozen men bent on killing the principals were arrested with out incident. The data that Vir had sent to Lyta had proved to be very accurate. "Susan, when do you want to leave for earth," asked Lyta? "Can you give me a day or so? I want to meet with some of the other ambassadors before I leave. The change of orders for the Ronoake gives me time I wouldn't have had otherwise." "Just let me know when. I won't need but two hours notice." "Is that the Whitestar Alpha parked between the narn and centauri flagships?" "Yes." Walking over to the captain and Willa, "I am going to call it a night, I'll see you tomorrow Willa." "She knows, doesn't she, Willa," said Donald. "Of course. Nobody can keep secrets from her." ****************************************************** The scene has changed, Willa and Donald are standing in front of his quarters. "Will you come in for a nightcap?" "I thought you'd never ask." "People will talk," said the admiral. "I can live with it, if you can," came the reply. As they entered his quarters, Donald removed his coat and hung it in the closet. Turning around he said, "I'll make us drinks," walked to the bar and put his hat on the it." Willa walked up behind him, "Donald?" As he turned she put her arms around his neck and kissed him. He was instantly awash in conflicting emotions, desire, apprehension, surprise, pleasure and nervousness all at once. Willa was caught up in his emotional responses. Pulling away from him, "Donald, what about the drinks?" [Drinks???] "Drinks?" Willa kissed him again and any thought of anything else vanished. Corwin had not been with a woman in a number of years. This one was soft, smelled so good and wanted him. He pulled away long enough to say, "I don't do one night stands." Breathing heavily, Willa responded, "neither do I." ****************************************************** In Willa's quarters, Lyta was on the comm system with a tired looking Bester. "Alfred, I will becoming to earth within a few days. I want you to locate these people if possible. I am going to want to meet them. I want it to be a surprise for Willa." "Okay, but we haven't been able to get rid of all the shadow sympathizers. Many of them did nothing illegal. It may not be safe here for you." "Point taken, however, I will be there in a few days." ************************************************ "Willa, Donald have a seat and have some breakfast," said Lyta. They took a seat and ordered breakfast. Both looked very rested and relaxed. "Willa, I am going to take Susan back to earth in a day or so. Will you come with me?" "Any particular reason?" "Actually yes. I have a project started and I need your assistance." "What kind of project?" "I can't talk about it yet. There are some things I must attend first." "I am at your disposal." "Will you be gone long," asked Donald? "Less than a week, unless we run into delays and I am not expecting any of those," responded Lyta. They finished breakfast while discussing the dinner of the previous night. As they were finishing Susan came in, sat down, and ordered a light breakfast. "Lyta, it will take me at least two days to finish my business here. Does the delay impinge on your schedule," asked Susan? "No. In fact it allows me to get prepared for the earth visit." ****************************************************** The comm panel in Willa's quarters announced, "call for Lyta Blaine from Admiral Ivonava." "Go ahead," said Lyta. "I am ready too leave whenever you are, Lyta," said Susan. "I will meet you in docking bay six in one hour." Susan was waiting in the docking bay when Willa and Lyta arrived. "Is that your shuttle, Lyta," asked Susan? "It is beautiful." "Let's get aboard and get the show on the road.' The shuttle arrived in the shuttle bay in short order. "The shuttle has artificial gravity, doesn't it," asked Susan Lyta led Willa and Susan to the bridge of the Whitestar. There was no one there. wondered Willa. The ship was already moving toward the jumpgate at a fast speed. In fact it was much faster than other ships. The jumpgate opened and the Whitestar shot through it. Susan just stared at Lyta. They sat eating lunch not talking' much. Without any warning Susan and Willa could see hyperspace as if they were outside the ship. They almost fell out of their chairs. The rest of the trip was uneventful. The ship exited hyperspace in synchronous earth orbit and identified itself. The shuttle landed at the earthdome spaceport area and Admiral Ivonava thanked Lyta and bade her farewell. Willa was feeling uneasy. She had escaped Psi Corps more than twenty years ago, but she would still be listed as a rogue. Willa could not begin to guess what her friend meant, but she doubted that there was anything about Psi Corps she could enjoy. Twenty minutes later they were in Bester's office. Willa followed Lyta out of the office and down the hallway and into a meeting room. Entering the room, Lyta nodded to the men and women sitting there. They nodded back. The three women and two men, all in their early to middle thirties did so. One of the women, dressed as a psicop, shook her head, Lyta shook her head. The men and women looked at one another in amazement. From one of the men, The looks on their faces showed that the information had literally stunned them. Willa sat down. She was in shock. It just couldn't be. , the psicop inquired, Lyta explained what had happened to them and Willa at their births. As she walked out of the room Lyta let them know she would be in Bester's office. ******************************* It's not over yet. From: "Aubrey W. Adkins" Subject: John & Delenn 20 years after part H Date: Tue, 04 Nov 1997 16:34:57 -0800 All comments welcome Send comments to [xazqrten@norfolk.infi.net] All characters/places/persons not belonging to the writer are the sole properties of their owners, PTEN, WB, JMS, and will be turned over to the owners at the request of their agents. All other characters/places/persons are public domain. Title: John and Delenn After 20 Years Part H (This is a WIP) There are no spoilers in this story. "--" = spoken words <--> = telepathy [--] = self thoughts `--' = emphasis It had been ten days since Lyta had arrived on earth for this visit. It was her first in almost twenty years. Willa was having the time of her life visiting with her children and getting to know her grandchildren. Lyta wondered if she would have trouble getting her to leave. Susan had been a gracious host and most helpful getting various earthgov officials to meet with Lyta in an unofficial capacity. It was obvious that she needed to get an ambassador level representative stationed here. There was too much going on she needed to know about. If it could be wrangled to get Donald assigned to earth, Willa would be the perfect person for the position. She set up a meeting with Susan to discuss just that. Lyta just looked at her with a puzzled expression on her face. Lyta waved her hand in acknowledgment as she walked out of Susan's office. ***************************************************** Back in Bester's office Willa and Alfred were waiting for Lyta. Lyta strolled through the door and said, She followed Willa and Alfred down the hallway. They passed two psicops one older and one just out of his teens. The younger one thought to his teacher, The young psicop looked at his older companion with wide eyes, His companion nodded assent. ****************************************************************************** Bester stopped in front of a door labeled auditorium. He opened the door and Lyta and Willa followed him in. The room was about 10 by 15 meters in size and there were thirty or so young men and women sitting, waiting. Except for six of them all were in psicop uniforms. Lyta gave Bester a blistering, what is going on here, look. Bester could almost feel heat coming from her eyes. Stepping upon the small stage, Bester told the gathering, One of the psicops asked, Bester answered, Lyta gave him an even nastier look. If looks could kill, Bester would be history. Come to think of it, in her case they could. Keeping her expression neutral, < I appreciate the thought. I have one request of each of you.> they thought in unison? Bester said, The audience filed up and talked to Lyta one on one. They wanted her to meet their parents. She hadn't seen most of them in almost twenty years. She agreed that when she came to earth again she would visit with all of them again. "Ouch!" Looking momentarily lost in thought, Lyta answered, Lyta impaled Bester with a withering look. Later in Bester's office, Giving him her sweetest smile, *********************************************************************** They had finished breakfast and were having an extra cup of coffee. Willa looked at her friend with a questioning expression. On the way to meet Susan Lyta explained her plans for the youngsters she had just met. Willa was surprised and amused at the thought of Bester's reaction. Susan had managed to make arrangements for Lyta and Willa to meet with the proper earthgov representatives again. This time it was in an official capacity. They started the wheels rolling for the establishment of a permanent embassy and ambassador from epsilon III on earth. Some of the officials wondered why it had taken so long. Lyta had explained that she hated to rush things. Susan insisted that she meet with her friends on the general staff. They wanted to discuss possibilities for obtaining some of the older Whitestar technologies with her. The meeting went well. No promises were made, but Lyta leaned toward leasing them the autorepair technologies, but she wasn't going to upgrade their weapons systems. It took Bester the better part of the day to schedule the interviews Lyta wanted. He told her she could begin first thing the next day. The interviews went well and Lyta was immensely pleased with the results. These were a first rate group of young telepaths, and they had scruples. She told Bester she would take all of them. He wasn't wanting to cooperate until Lyta explained that she didn't want all of them immediately. She would take them over a period of a year or so. Bester voiced his opinion and went about getting the red tape started. His daughter was to be one of the first. She would return to epsilon III with Lyta. ***************************************************************************** Onboard the Whitestar, Bester's daughter, Lyta Alfreda, looked around the ship's bridge area. added Lyta. In an earth force orbiting tracking facility and in the control facility associated with it, the operators watched Whitestar rotate on its axis, open a small jump point and apparently vanish. "Captain, the Whitestar is gone." "What do you mean gone? It was scheduled to leave. Is there a problem?" "Sir. What I mean is it vanished. One second it opened a jump point the next it wasn't there." The watch commander reviewed the video replay of what had been recorded and relayed it to earthforce headquarters. His feeling was let them sort it out. It was safer for the career that way. In earthforce headquarters, Susan and the rest of the staff watched the video replay a number of times. When the replay was slowed down it showed that the Whitestar had accelerated away at a rate equal to more than ten gravities. "Susan, what do you know about this?" "I am as surprised as you are Bob. She told me this was a prototype, but she never discussed any of its capabilities. Even the older Whitestars can open jump points and had more firepower than anything we have, even today. It might help to review recordings of power buildups prior to her departure if any are available." "They are being reviewed now, but don't expect much from them." "Why not." "The energy readings were too great for the monitoring equipment to measure. One instant everything was reading normal, the next the monitors were saturated then the readings went to zero and returned to normal background levels." ****************************************************************************** It is three months later on epsilon III. responded Steven. Lyta had been looking forward to John's release from the transformation process. She was anxious to test some of her theories with John and the Whitestar Alpha. Sighing to herself she pulled another batch of papers from her IN basket. She hated bureaucratic paperwork. It seemed to have a life of its own. The engineers and technicians had been working hard to get the latest modifications installed in Alpha before Sheridan was released from the medical facility. She initiated contact with the ship and it was like petting an enthusiastic puppy. It had been some time since her last conscious contact with it. It was fun, not to mention breathtaking, just seeing the planet and its surroundings from the ship's point of view. It could alter one's perceptions and perspectives. A week went by and one morning John and his constant companion, Alfreda, entered her office and greeted her. "Good morning Lyta," said Sheridan. Lyta nodded affirmative. Lyta nodded to Alfreda. John grabbed his head and cried out in pain. Lyta nodded again and John recovering his composure, Two hours later on the Whitestar Alpha. Sheridan felt a very warm fuzzy feeling come over him. All three of them were seeing the space around the ship from the perspective of the ship. Sheridan looked around to see where the jump gate was located. As he did this his perspective began to change as the ship began moving. The jumpgate came into view and it occurred to Sheridan that he should get clearance from Babylon 5 to use it. In his head he heard the Babylon 5 controller saying, "Whitestar Alpha, you are cleared for jump." By this time the ship was accelerating rapidly toward the jumpgate. The initialization codes were sent and the jumpgate activated. The ship was in hyperspace before Sheridan had time to think about it. A soft voice inside his head inquired, the warm fuzzy feeling returned. Exiting from hyperspace went without fanfare and they found themselves near a field of very large asteroids. Some were at least a hundred kilometers in diameter at their widest points. As if on cue several ships came from behind the asteroids. They targeted the Alpha and opened fire. Onboard the Alpha, Sheridan observed all this in a few milliseconds. The Alpha answered the incoming fire in milliseconds, and the incoming weapons fire never reached the skin of the ship. The attacking ships were disabled or outright destroyed and several large asteroids had been destroyed by energy beams that went through the targets and impacted the asteroids behind them. John was looking at the asteroid field and was eyeing one that must be nearly 50 kilometers in diameter. He wondered what it would take to destroy it and before he realized it the main array was firing on it. The asteroid at first absorbed the incoming energy, but about a minute later it exploded into small pieces. As they strapped themselves in numerous jump points formed on all sides of the Alpha and other Whitestars were exiting them. The Alpha was being targeted by all of them. Seeing what was happening Sheridan's mind raced at full speed and the Alpha moved with it. The incoming ships were trying to retarget the Alpha as they began receiving incoming fire. The invading Whitestars never stood a chance. Onboard the Alpha the enhanced gravity generators were being strained to the burnout point trying to adjust to the maneuvers being executed as Sheridan engaged and "destroyed" the attackers. Lyta and Alfreda were holding their heads and John was breathing very heavily and his head hurt. "Whitestar Alpha, this is attack leader. Your performance was absolutely stellar. Our estimate is that you destroyed 5 of us and rendered the remainder incapable of continuing the attack. If we aren't needed anymore we are returning to patrol. Attack leader out." inquired Alfreda. replied Lyta. they laughed at the humor of the remark. Sheridan nodded. Lyta gave him the coordinates for the nearest colony. The Alpha vanished into hyperspace at her maximum speed. They had to grab railings to keep from being thrown to the deck by the sudden acceleration. ************************************************************************************* The Alpha was standing in hyperspace at a point just outside the orbital defenses of the Drakh colony. Sheridan was scanning the surface and noting targets. It was a manufacturing colony and weapons and ships were obviously its main products. Lyta just gave him her patented poker face look. Less than two minutes later the Alpha was back in hyperspace and heading for home. Sheridan had destroyed everything in a swath two kilometers wide and ten kilometers long. There was no indication that the Drakh even knew what had hit them. Sheridan had detected no scans while he was making his run. He had not opened jump points as such. The Alpha had sort of phased in and out. He had become aware of a new prototype stealth installation while executing the attack. As they left the shuttle, Lyta reminded Alfreda that she was on duty again. Alfreda nodded. John turned to leave and kissed Alfreda on the top of the head. Alfreda looked at him and realized that he was serious. It was obvious that whatever had passed between her father and this man was history. He didn't hold grudges. ****************************************************************************** Sheridan was accompanied be Alfreda and Lyta's son Michael. The young man was assigned to Delenn. Sheridan and Alfreda left. Michael stayed. He was already maintaining blocks for Delenn. ****************************************************************************** MTC From: "Aubrey W. Adkins" Subject: John and Delenn After 20 Years Part J (This is a WIP) Date: Fri, 07 Nov 1997 23:28:00 -0800 All characters/places/persons not belonging to the writer are the sole properties of their owners, PTEN, WB, JMS, and will be turned over to the owners at the request of their agents. All other characters/places/persons are public domain. Title: John and Delenn After 20 Years Part J (This is a WIP) There are no spoilers in this story. "--" = spoken words <--> = telepathy [--] = self thoughts `--' = emphasis Comments are welcome at: xazqrten@norfolk.infi.net Start part J(there is no part I) Lyta nodded. ****************************************************** ****************************************************** The Alpha reentered normal space outside the range of the Fjon scanners and continued toward the Fjon home planet. It was in orbit above the planet's capital city waiting for acknowledgment of its arrival. "Spaceship in orbit, welcome to Plora, you have been identified as representing the Alliance of planets. I am sending coordinates for your shuttle to land when you come down. Our representative will be awaiting your arrival. Please notify us twenty of your standard minutes prior to your arrival." "This is Assistant Ambassador Delenn Sherman, it will be our pleasure, out." John, Delenn, Michael and Alfreda boarded the shuttle for the trip to the surface. John iterated. The shuttle landed and the passengers debarked. The ambassador and local representatives were there to meet them. The weather was cool but comfortable by earth standards. "Delenn, John, I am so happy to see you. I want to introduce you the prime minister of the Fjon Republic and her senior staff. Prime Minister this is my protege Delenn Sherman and her husband John, my new military attache. They will be working with me and your staff." The prime minister made the introductions of her staff and invited them to a small informal dinner the following night. As group left the spaceport, John noted the apparently complete lack of security, but said nothing. He would ask the ambassador about it later. Betty went on to explain some items not covered in the information provided on the data crystals. It turned out that the Fjons were very much into competition. The were almost crazy for sports of all kinds. Their competitiveness manifested itself in personal challenges and sports. They didn't fight to the death.. Their philosophy was that losers would support winners for the common good. They accepted that sports could result in accidental deaths, but to purposefully kill someone was an automatic death penalty. Crimes against persons were also severely dealt with. They were extremely competitive in all their business dealings and most of their other everyday activities. inquired John. The dinner had been a success. The earthlings had learned much about their hosts that wasn't included on the data crystals. Their had been lively discussions about and comparisons of religious beliefs and folk lore. It included a short science lesson on the natural history of the planet. The lack of wars had made the preservation of old records more complete than any other civilization with which John and Delenn were familiar. Alfreda and Michael had been silent and paid attention to everything that transpired. They didn't realize that this was part of their training for future assignments. Lyta had intended it to be this way. After the dinner Michael and Alfreda were left alone to their own devices. Since it was still not late, they took a walk in the beautiful park that was adjacent to their apartment building. They were not alone, the locals seemed to be enjoying the park, too. Michael wasn't going to say anything, but he was becoming aware of the fact that Alfreda was beautiful. He was beginning to realize that he was strongly attracted to her. It was all he could do to keep his feelings hidden. [He is handsome. Looks like his dad and has his mom's hair. He is just about the nicest guy I know. Hell, he is the nicest. I wonder how he feels about me? Geesh both of us telepaths and not a clue.] [She looks like a combination between her mother and father. We are going to be here for more than a year.] As they were walking and talking Alfreda had unconsciously taken Mike's hand into hers. It didn't go unnoticed, but he said nothing. The thought of him and her being a thing hadn't occurred to him because she was a psi-cop. Looking up at him she replied, Mike had noticed the locals looking at them with puzzled expressions. He realized that they had been using telepatic communication. "Freddy we are breaking one of the rules." The vocalization caught her completely off guard. It also diverted her attention away from the fact that he hadn't answered her question. "What?" "We're supposed to use vocal speech when in public." "I am sorry." "The locals won't understand us, but they won't pay much attention either. At least I hope theydon't." Mike's voice wasn't lost on Alfreda. She liked it. It had a good baritone quality to it. It was something that hadn't come across using telepathy. It would in the future, now that she was aware of it. He had noted that her voice was a bit deep for a woman, pleasingly so. It had a warm soothing quality to it. He could do a quick scan of her to find out how she felt about him, but the idea was almost nauseating to him. His mom had taught him how to do them so that the person wasn't aware of it. He had never done it except under her supervision in training. He wouldn't start now. They had been walking some time when Mike said, "we should be getting back." They didn't see John and Delenn sitting on a bench in the shadows as they returned to the building and said their goodnights. Habits die hard and she couldn't help scanning Michael as they went to their separate quarters. She was astonished that there were no blocks in place and even more so when she sensed nothing, just emptiness. ****************************************************** John inquired. John was nuzzling her hair and getting turned on. It was unhurried and comfortable. They had been married more than twenty years, but he often found himself behaving like a newlywed. Delenn for her part loved every bit of it. Their love had been forged under stress, in fire and was unshakable. The link they shared now just made things even more solid. < I think it is time we went inside.> "Mmumf, okay," he responded. ****************************************************** They had been working closely at the embassy for just over three months and had been on what would have qualified as dates numerous times. Micheal had made no effort to advance their relationship beyond the holding of hands that had occurred that first evening. Alfreda was not happy that he had not even held her hand since then. He was nice, attentive and easygoing. The fact that he had made no move on her was very irritating. She had talked to Delenn on numerous occasions, but Delenn had been neutral in all her answers and advice. It looked like she was going to have to be very direct in her dealings with Michael. After supper they were again taking yet another one of their evening walks around the park's area. Michael was caught completely off guard. [Where did that come from?] Michael projected into her mind all the things that had been done to his mother. She had made sure that her sons knew all about it. It was her way of showing them what can happen when power is abused. It also explained much about his mother's attitude toward certain people. Alfreda reeled under the onslaught of images that assaulted her mind. She looked at him completely bewildered. His accusation left her speechless. There was more to Michael than met the eye. How could she deny the truth. She was trying to think of some answer to defuse the situation, but her mind was blank as to any solutions. She smiled, Michael turned and walked away. There was no answer. First thing the next morning Alfreda sought out Delenn and explained what happened the night before. ****************************************************** Paul dearly loved his wife, but sometimes he just had no clues as to what she was planning, doing or thinking. She never seemed to realize this in spite of his obvious lack of knowledge. < Lyta, when will you stop trying to manipulate people?> She just smiled. They were laying across their bed with Lyta's head on Paul's chest. She explained what her plans had been and where the problems were. He ran his hand through her copper colored hair. She nodded no. Lyta didn't like the direction this conversation was taking. Next day Lyta watched her son and Marsha work out together. They were not aware that they were being watched. They made a really handsome couple. Marsh had been a gymnast and was a martial arts master and had interned with the psi-cops. She had not liked them, but had remained with them specializing in counter industrial espionage in the private sector with some special assignments to military units. She was a very powerful telepath and an even more powerful empath. She didn't need to scan someone to detect lying. She could read their emotional states like a book. They had been sparring with pikes and hand to hand for almost an hour. Lyta was tired from just watching their efforts. They were very good. She felt sorry for anyone dumb enough to start a fight with either of them. As they started to leave John took Marsha in his arms and kissed her very deeply. Lyta could feel the emotions even through her natural blocks. These two seemed to be more than just friends. The thought of that disturbed her. At dinner that night she and Paul had another long discussion about her sons and her relationship with them. She decided that she had to let go. It wouldn't be easy, but it was the right thing to do. ***************************************************** The next day in her office, Lyta had an unscheduled visitor. Marsha Armstead, white female, age 35, 180 cm tall, 78 kilograms, and beautiful too. [John has fabulous taste in women.] [Where did she learn about that?] Lyta nodded acknowledgment. Lyta raised an eyebrow. Lyta cocked her head, Lyta just listened. She made no effort to respond. Lyta never changed her expression. Marsha left. Lyta was stunned. Lyta contacted Paul and related her meeting with Marsha to him. Later that morning, Marsha and John said their goodbyes and she boarded the shuttle for Babylon 5. Her reservations would have her well on her way to earth before the day was over. She had been lucky enough to catch a passenger ship that been delayed in departing. A week after her experience with Marsha, Lyta again went to watch them work out together. She wanted to talk with them and straighten out her relationship with both of them. Her discussions with Paul had caused her to rethink a number of her feelings about them. She sat in the same place she had used the last time. John came in on schedule, but his workout partner wasn't Marsha. It was another ranger that Lyta didn't know by name, even though she had seen him before. She wondered where Marsh could be. After the work out was over Lyta approached her son, Lyta could feel her son's anger even though he did nothing to show it outwardly. He was even toned if that was possible when talking telepathically. It was if he was discussing the price of eggs with her. Lyta didn't respond. She tried to hide her feelings and she almost succeeded. For the briefest instant John saw a hurt expression on his mother's face. He had never seen her display any emotion like that before. He said nothing and walked away. ****************************************************** MTC From: "Aubrey W. Adkins" Subject: John And Delenn After 20 Years Part K (WIP) Date: Sun, 09 Nov 1997 22:23:12 -0800 All characters/places/persons not belonging to the writer are the sole properties of their owners, PTEN, WB, JMS, and will be turned over to the owners at the request of their agents. All other characters/places/persons are public domain. Title: John and Delenn After 20 Years Part K (This is a WIP) There are no spoilers in this story. "--" = spoken words <--> = telepathy [--] = self thoughts `--' = emphasis *********************************************** It was a beautiful morning, the air was crisp and clean, John had not enjoyed a morning like this since Delenn and he had went camping on Minbar almost ten years ago. David had been twelve at the time and they had caught the minbari equivalent of bass for breakfast that morning. John could almost smell the aroma. His mouth was watering. He had picked up his fishing rod when he heard Michael wake up. As the slipped quietly out of camp, they didn't notice that Delenn was watching them and had heard their exchange. John had missed much as David grew up. His duties had always seemed to conspire to keep them apart. Delenn exited the tent and took in the early rising sun. It was going to be another gorgeous day. She loved the climate on this planet. The planet was slightly larger than earth, but was somewhat less dense, which resulted in almost exactly one earth gravity. It was slightly further from its sun and was only tilted about 10 degrees on its axis. Its orbit was more circular than earth's. These factors gave it an overall climate just slightly cooler than earth's, but it didn't have as extreme seasonal variations as earth. It was really a lovely world. She heard sounds of movement coming from Alfreda's tent and moments later the sounds were followed by the appearance of the tent's lone occupant. Delenn could sense Alfreda's despair and it worried her. She was afraid of what Psicorps would do to her for her failure to perform. Alfreda was a very strong person, but she had a sense of duty that was extreme. She didn't seem like the type who could suffer failure well. Bester had screwed her up. He might be okay, now, in Lyta's book, but he would never be okay in her's. The men made a noisy approach to camp. They had only been gone about thirty minutes, but they had a half dozen of what passed locally for fish. After breakfast, they broke down the camp and started off on another leg of their planned hiking-camping mini vacation. They had spent a week at hiking and camping and John had enjoyed himself more than any other time he could remember in the past two decades. Just him and Delenn, if you didn't count Michael and Alfreda. They had done some rock climbing too. He made himself a promise to do this more often. It really helped with one perspectives. Delenn had thoroughly enjoyed herself and was pleased to see how the time off had affected John. Apparently Michael and Alfreda had enjoyed the trip, but they were no closer now than before they started. ****************************************************** He awoke with a nauseous feeling almost overpowering him. As he got out of bed he could hear retching coming from the bathroom. "Oh, in Valen's name, I am sick." The sound of more retching and he was feeling his stomach start to empty its contents. He just made it to the second bathroom when his supper made its unwelcome appearance. Later that morning after managing to get themselves under control John and Delenn went to the mess facility maintained in their building and managed to eat some breakfast. She nodded agreement. He was remembering the last time this happened to him. It was when Lyta made the whole quadrant sick. The medical technician confirmed John's guess. Delenn was pregnant. ****************************************************** Michael was in the middle of his workout with Larry Evans one of the older rangers that did duty as engineer, mechanic and part time medical technician. Hesitating, Larry responded, Mike told him the whole story. ****************************************************** Gathilee called Delenn and Alfreda and the invitations were made. Everyone was there except Michael. He arrived just in time for dinner. He missed the pre-dinner social conversation. His expression left no doubt that he wasn't happy about the presence of Alfreda. The dinner was a quiet affair with John, Delenn, Gay and Larry doing all the talking. Mike and Freddy were each keeping to him/herself. Dinner was over and Mike helped Gay remove the dishes and police the dining area. Mike started for the door to leave when John said, "sit down Michael." The vocal admonition stopped Mike in his tracks. He looked at Sheridan. Michael looked like someone had hit him with a pike. Alfreda just looked astonished. John proceeded to tell them about Alfreda's father and mother, the frozen telepaths and Za'ha'dum and how Lyta fitted in. Both of the youngsters sat in stunned silence. Mike nodded, no. John proceeded to tell them all about that and even his less than stellar part of it. Delenn backed his story. The youngsters were speechless. The two of them just sat and said nothing. Both of them had much to think about after what Sheridan had just told them. Gay tried to lighten the affair, Later after more talk and socialization, the dinner party broke up. Mike and Alfreda walked back to their apartments together. Before they said goodnight Alfreda asked Mike to scan her to be sure what she had told him was true. Michael said he would think about it. Alfreda was asleep when her mother knocked on her door and asked to be admitted. She was puzzled because her mom was supposed to be back on earth, but she told her to come in anyway. She talked to her mom for what seemed like hours. She discussed her feelings for Michael and how she had screwed the relationship up. She also talked about her feelings toward Psicorps, her father and so many other things that she couldn't keep all of them straight. Her mom kissed her goodnight and tucked her in before leaving. Next morning at breakfast she was telling Michael, Delenn and John about the dream and how real it seemed to be. She asked Michael if he had thought about what she had asked last night. He had. Alfreda looked confused. Alfreda, looking even more confused, That afternoon Alfreda was waiting at the gym for Michael. Alfreda was thrilled and had the time of her life competing with the men. She was drenched with sweat before it ended and felt absolutely wonderful. On their way back to their quarters she could sense the difference in feelings Mike had for her. Later that evening they took their usual stroll before turning in. For the first time in many years she wore something besides her uniform and gloves. This time they held hands for real and the effect was almost over whelming. By the time they arrived back at their apartment she was wanting Michael. She didn't hide the fact. She pulled his head down and kissed him and his knees went weak. Michael for his part didn't know how to respond. This was all new to him. They broke the kiss and Michael escaped into his apartment. Alfreda, breathing hard, felt cheated. She had never been involved with a man before and was as new to this as Michael. [Tomorrow night he won't get away so easily.] Michael sat down and tried to get his thoughts straight. His breathing was heavy. His heart was pounding like a trip hammer and his knees were not working quite right. She had been soft and warm. Her touch had sent tingles, like a mild electric shock, through him. He didn't know that his responses had been amplified by his telepathic and empathic abilities. He knew in his heart that if she did this tomorrow night he would not be able to resist his animal instincts. She did and he didn't. They were late to breakfast the following day. John and Delenn feigned ignorance about what had transpired. The rest of the personnel paid no attention, either. They had been expecting it sooner than this. Everyone agreed they were a good match. Michael made contact with John and let him know that things were right between him and Alfreda. He wanted mom to know he wanted her to stay. The reply was that the final decision would rest with the ambassador and the Sheridan's. Michael relayed the information to John Sheridan. The answer was immediate. Alfreda would be staying. Michael thanked him. Back in his apartment Michael sat down and cried. He had been so afraid his mother wouldn't change her mind. In the past she had never changed her mind once she had made a decision concerning her sons, regardless of how harsh the repercussions to them. Michael and Alfreda were married less that a month later. ****************************************************** They finished supper and went for a walk in the park. John could sense that Delenn had plans for later. His anticipation was getting into gear. It had been a good day and would be an even better evening. They had been here almost two years, their daughter five months old and a little darling. She was the first human born on Plora, but not the only one. Michael and Alfreda had been blessed with a son. John and Delenn despite the age difference spent a lot of time with Mike and Freddy. The whole human community on Plora was extremely close knit. With the engineers and technicians involved with facilities construction and maintenance they numbered just over a hundred and fifty. Lyta and Paul and Alfred and Carlyon were thrilled to be grandparents. All were anxious to meet him. ****************************************************** MTC From: "Aubrey W. Adkins" Subject: John and Delenn After 20 Years Part L (This is a WIP) Date: Tue, 11 Nov 1997 19:32:49 -0800 All characters/places/persons not belonging to the writer are the sole properties of their owners, PTEN, WB, JMS, and will be turned over to the owners at the request of their agents. All other characters/places/persons are public domain. Title: John and Delenn After 20 Years Part L (This is a WIP) There are no spoilers in this story. Comments are welcome: xazqrten@norfolk.infi.net "--" = spoken words <--> = telepathy [--] = self thoughts `--' = emphasis It had been more than a month since she had left Epsilon III and Marsha was having morning sickness. John Blaine wasn't aware of her condition, and if she had her way, he would never know. Lyta didn't like her, so be it. She had explained to her mother why she was back on earth. Willa was using her in an advisory capacity. She advised her mom when people were lying because she could do it without scanning them, therefore she wasn't breaking any Psicorps rules. She had not told her mother she was pregnant. Willa was becoming alarmed. Marsha must be in some kind of danger. She couldn't think of anything Marsha might have done to be this upset about. Against her better judgement, Wondering why this would cause the noted agitation in her daughter, Marsha loved William and his wife, Louise, very much. ****************************************************** Willa waited until the time difference between earth and Epsilon III were such that Lyta should be in her office before making the call. In her office Lyta was surprised when the comm panel erupted with, "incoming call from earth for Lyta Blaine from Willa Armstead." "Put the call through." "Willa, to what do I owe the pleasure of this call?" "I am curious about the relationship between Marsha and John?" "They dated for a while, then they broke up, and she left." "That's all there was?" "You make it sound like it was more than that, but I can assure you that was the extent of it." "As long as you are satisfied with that, so am I. I am sorry to have bothered you." "Is that all you wanted? It doesn't seem like much to call about" "I suppose you are right. I guess my age is starting to show." With that she closed the call. Marsha was correct. Lyta didn't have a clue. That night Lyta told Paul about the call. Now Lyta was sure that she had screwed something up, but for the life of her she couldn't imagine what it was. ****************************************************** John learned things about his mother that he found hard to accept. She was so much more than he had been led to believe. If even half of what his father had told him was true, his mom was someone to be reckoned with. ****************************************************** Paul never mentioned it again. He suspected that there was much more to it than even he knew. He knew that John and Marsha had not been a fling. His son's feelings had told him that. Willa's call had alluded to something more. It would be years before his suspicions were proven well founded. In the coming years John never as much as looked at another woman. It drove Lyta nuts, but John never gave her any answers. ****************************************************** MTC From: "Aubrey W. Adkins" Subject: John and Delenn After 20 Years Part M Date: Sun, 16 Nov 1997 19:50:42 -0800 All characters/places/persons not belonging to the writer are the sole properties of their owners, PTEN, WB, JMS, and will be turned over to the owners at the request of their agents. All other characters/places/persons are public domain. Title: John and Delenn After 20 Years Part M There are no spoilers in this story. Address comments to: xazqrten@norfolk.infi.net "--" = spoken words <--> = telepathy [--] = self thoughts `--' = emphasis On earth Marsha had become Aunt Marty to a beautiful red headed girl. It broke her heart to not let her daughter know who she really was, but she had promised her brother and his wife that she would never be anything more than an aunt to the girl. She had named her Lynn after her grandmother's middle name. Lynn was five years old now and she looked exactly like her father. That fact made Marsha's pain that much more intense. She had not communicated with John since she had left Epsilon III, even though Willa had brought it up constantly for the first three years after she had returned to earth. Lynn had been tested by Psi Corps and found to be only a P-3 rating. She would not be turned over for training until she was ten. Marsha was determined that wouldn't happen. It had taken her a year to train Lynn to fool the tests and she did it like a master. Marsha had noted that when she was not hiding it, Lynn's natural power appeared to exceed even Willa's. Considering her linage, it shouldn't have come as any surprise. ****************************************************************** They were having breakfast when Paul, without any preamble said, she kept her disappointment hidden from Paul. Julie sitting across the table from her mother read Lyta's disappointment as if it had been tattooed on the front of her head, but she kept it to herself. She was constantly amazed at how much her parents hid from one another. Lyta and Paul would have been stunned to know that Julie could read both of them like open books. As telepaths went Julie was at least as powerful as her mother and her abilities were just beginning to make themselves known. Lyta had started her training before she was even born. Julie was already much stronger than her brothers. It also explained why Julie could read right through Lyta's shields. Lyta smiled and accepted the invitation. She looked knowingly at Julie. ****************************************************************** The shuttle was full when Lyta, Paul and their tribe left for earth. The kids, grandkid and kid-in-law were along for the trip. After the Whitestar Bravo entered hyperspace, Lyta allowed Julie and her cousin to play with the ships control center. Matthew Lyta's grandson got to pilot first and had a thrill most children will never have. Julie was all business when she linked with the ship she began testing what she could do with it. Lyta smiled. Julie had a great imagination. The ship announced, "we are just above orbit of earth, standing by to exit hyperspace.> Lyta queried the ship and got the same answer. Bravo opened a jump point and maneuvered into a synchronous orbit just outside the Clarke Belt. Lyta just stared at her daughter. This was going to take some investigation when they returned to Epsilon III. ****************************************************************** Willa had arranged a dinner for her and Lyta's families. It was to be an occasion. The party turned out to be a joyous occasion for all. Lyta had the opportunity to get to know Willa's children and friendships were renewed all except Marsha and John. She had managed to completely avoid John and Lyta. Her efforts were not lost on Paul. He cornered her and asked what was wrong. Marsha explained that she didn't want to face an old boyfriend and she certainly didn't want to talk to Lyta. Lyta noticed the exchange between Paul and Marsha, but she only caught the last part of Marsha's reply, irrelevant. After Marsha walked away, Lyta shot a question to Paul. Lyta didn't believe him because Marsha had been staring at her when she made her reply. She would ask about it later. The children had their supper in another room and were playing amongst themselves. Marsha came into the room to check on the children. She realized that Julie was Lyta's daughter and Lyta was more than sixty years old. Her frustrations and fears flashed through her mind in an instant and then were gone, but Julie had read them all. And she really was. She looked at the children and they looked like fraternal twins. Matthew and Lynn looked almost like identical twins. Marsha realized that if she left Lynn here, Lyta and the rest couldn't possibly miss the family resemblance. She quickly went back to the party and found William. She let him know that she was leaving and would be happy to take Lynn with her. William agreed. Lyta had watched the exchange and her curiosity was going at maximum. Lately, with Julie on hand, Lyta could empathize with him. She wanted to talk to Marsha. She had noticed that Marsha had avoided John. Marsha was just getting Lynn from the other room when Lyta walked in. She tried to ignore her, but Lyta was having none of it. In the party room John reacted like he had been slapped. John came into the room and stopped dead in his tracks. Lyta was standing to one side, Marsha was standing to the other. The children were standing together in between them. Lyta shot him a withering look, but it was wasted on her son. Lyta looked at Julie, Lyta looked at Julie again. Marsha interjected, With that she left the room with Lynn in tow. John was close behind her as she left. He followed her to her vehicle. She could feel his hurting, but knew that for them to get together again would mean he would learn the truth about Lynn. John was confused. What they had shared in the past had been real. He still felt the way he did back then. It was hard to accept that she felt nothing for him. He accepted that he had been deluding himself these past five years. Standing in the light John for the first time looked closely at Marsha's niece. It took it a minute to sink in. She looked like him. He did some quick math in his head and the numbers were about right. "Little girl. How old are you?" "Five." "Who is your father?" "Daddy is Aunt Marty's brother." John looked from Lynn to Marsha, "thank you." With that he turned and walked away. Lynn looked at the departing man and her aunt, [liar]. ****************************************************************** After the party broke up and everyone else had left, Lyta told Willa that they needed to talk. Paul said he would take Julie back to their quarters. Julie objected. <'cause I know what is wrong and what you are going to talk about.> Both women were looking intently at Julie. A collective, The two women were staring. Lyta had to admit that except for dating John, Marsha had never given her any reason for not liking her. In fact she had worked very diligently at everything she attempted. If it hadn't been for her hangup on Marsha's age at the time, but that was water under the bridge. Willa and Lyta were both stunned. Lyta was glaring at Willa. Lyta and Julie left and Willa poured another drink and sat down to reflect on life and its twisted path. ****************************************************************** Lyta had been preoccupied and had not noticed three men approaching. As they came nearer she was aware of their intentions. "Alright lady, hand over your money and jewels. Give us any trouble and we will hurt both of you." The robbery was the biggest mistake the three had ever made. It was also the last. Before Lyta could act the three men were on the ground screaming. They looked like broken dolls. Their screaming stopped in less than a minute. A few minutes later while Lyta was trying to comfort Julie, the police arrived on the scene. They had been staking the area out and had seen the men just moments before they started screaming. Lyta was unable to tell them anything. She had seen and heard nothing. Julie was crying her eyes out and babbling that she was sorry. The police took Lyta's statement and escorted her and Julie to their quarters. On the way the officer asked why they were out walking in this part of town. Lyta explained that the last time she was on earth this hadn't been a rough part of town. Lyta was asked to come down to the station and sign an official statement the next day. "Well, what do you think Charlie. They look mangled to me. I agree, but we'll have to wait for the ME's(Medical Examiner) report." ****************************************************************** In their quarters Lyta explained to Paul what had happened. He wanted to know what she had been thinking to walk the streets at that time of night and with a child in tow. Lyta explained that that part of town had been safe when she was here five years ago. Paul wanted to know what she did to the attackers and found it hard to believe when she said she had done nothing. Julie was taking in all of this. Both parents looked at Julie with disbelief showing on their faces. ****************************************************************** Next morning in the squad room, Charlie and his pardner got the ME report. The autopsies had revealed that the men had their bodies crushed as if they had been caught in a pair giant hydraulic hands and then been squeezed and twisted. "Want to bet that we don't solve this one, Charlie." "I see no reason to give you my credits." "Charlie, look at that." Charlie looked where his pardner had indicated, it was a knockout redhead. "Isn't that the lady from last night." "Yeah, I believe it is. I hear she is some kind of VIP." Charlie walked over to where Lyta was talking to the desk sargent. "Ma'am, we just got the coroner's report on the bodies from last night. If it isn't too much to ask, we have a few more questions." "No trouble at all, officer," Lyta answered. "If you will follow me." Lyta followed Charlie to an interrogation room. Charlie and his pardner had a few questions about what had happened and Lyta answered all of them. "Ma'am, we know that you are a telepath, so, do you think someone with telekinetic abilities could have done this?" "I suppose it is possible, but I have never heard of it happening before. Most telekinetics of any ability have to be locked for their own good. Usually they are mentally highly unstable or crazy." "We will have this typed up for your signature if you don't mind waiting a few minutes. Could I get you some coffee in the meantime?" "Do you have caffee con lichee?" "Yes, ma'am?" Charlie's pardner went to get the coffee. As Charlie's pardner returned with the coffee, two psi-cops accompanied him. The psi-cops motioned for Charlie and his pardner to leave. They glared at her as she continued, They looked frightened as they realized they were in really bad trouble, < and I am going to rip your brains out.> They two psi cops were terrified. They didn't know what do. They had never faced this possibility before. They were accustomed to being feared. They turned to go and fell where they had been standing. There hadn't been a word exchanged between them. Charlie and his pardner had viewed all of this from the observation room adjacent to the interrogation room. They ran into the room and checked the psi cops. They were breathing and appeared to be asleep. In his office head of Psi Corps heard Lyta as if she were shouting into his ear. Fifteen minutes Alfred entered police headquarters and inquired about Lyta. He was shown to the interrogation room. They two psi cops were still on the floor. The medics had been summoned, but hadn't arrived. Bester looked at the two unconscious bodies. She told him about the aborted robbery attempt. The two officers filled him in about the coroner's report. Bester shivered. "Officers, Mrs. Blaine is free to go. She has explained everything to my satisfaction. I will file a complete report with your commanding officer no later than this afternoon." Back at their desks, "Charlie, what do you think of this one?" "Bob, I think that the report we will get will be thorough and explain everything that has happened. It will also be a total fabrication. Do you really think anybody gives a damn what happened to those punks." "No, Charlie. I don't. Good riddance to bad trash. Do you think she did it?" "No. I think her daughter did." "Why?" "Do you know anything about her?" "Yeah. An old friend of mine told me about her many years ago. It was just after Sheridan's war with Clark. Remember him?" Bob visibly shuddered, "boy, do I, but what does that have to do with anything?" "I have an old friend named Michael Garibaldi. At the time I was part of the Mars underground." There was a look of respect on Bob's face that hadn't been there before. "We worked with him and this Lyta Alexander woman. She had been assisted by us a year or so earlier when she was running from Psi Corps. Seems that in between the two times she became involved with the vorlons. They changed her. She is a super telepath and as I understand it a powerful telekinetic too." "So, why do think she didn't do it." "You saw what she did to those two psi cops. She has total control over her abilities. I think her daughter sensed that their lives were in danger and panicked. Being a kid she struck out in fear and without control." "That makes her pretty dangerous." "I don't think so. As long as she isn't in danger there shouldn't be a problem. Remember she is a telepath and will know if danger is present." "I feel sorry for whomever has to spank her." ****************************************************************** Bester was having the time of his life with his grandson. He owed Lyta a lot. He met Julie for the first time and Lynn. He was in awe at what these five year olds could do. He had been right. Julie had killed the criminals. She needed training to learn to control her abilities. The other two were almost as formidable. Lyta would have to train them. No one else could hope to control them. He didn't envy her the job. Psi Corps wouldn't know what to do with them. < I read your report of the incident Alfred. It was a work of art.> ****************************************************************** The goodbys had been said and it was time to leave. They entered the shuttle and departed. John and Marsh sat in the back of the shuttle. ****************************************************************** I am ending this series of shorts here. I think a new title would be more appropriate. All criticisms are welcome.