From: "Aubrey W. Adkins" <xazqrten@norfolk.infi.net>
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.
 <Willa.>
 <Yes, Lyta?>
 <Check on Admiral Ivonava for me. Is she married or presently seeing
anyone?>
 <I'll get back to you in a few minutes.>
 About fifteen minutes later, <Lyta, she isn't married and isn't seeing
anyone. In fact there is no record of her ever seeing anyone. She has
the nickname ‘Ice Queen'.>
 <Thanks Willa.><Paul!>
 <Yes, Lee. What are you up to now?>
 <I want you to come up here and bring Mark with you.>
 <He has a job, Lee, and so do I.>
 <I know that. Just do it for me. I am doing an old friend a favor.>
 <Does this friend know anything about this favor?>
 <No.>
 <I thought as much. We will be up on the last shuttle. It leaves in
about half an hour.>
 <That will be just fine.>
 <Willa?>
 <Yes?>
 <Try to get me places for Paul amd Mark at the Dinner, also.>
 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."
 <Willa?>
 <I heard the conversation. I will try to bring her down.>

 *************************************************************
 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, <I
haven't seen hair like that in twenty years.>
 <Really.>
 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."
 <Do you and the captain have dinner often?>
 Looking furatively at Lyta, <it hasn't interferred with my duties,
prime minister.>
 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.
 <Willa, why?>
 <I am sorry that you feel my relationship with Captain Corwin will
interfere with my judgement. I had believed that I was keeping the
situations separated. I have tried in the past to not let such things
interfere with my work. So, if you will excuse me, I do have a number of
things to do before the meetings.>
 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.
 <Willa, you are terribly wrong in your assumptions>, thought Paul. He
left the apartment and followed Lyta.
 Paul caught up to Lyta in less than a minute.
 <Paul, what did I say that was so wrong. All I did was ask a question.>

 <Lee, it isn't the question. It's who is asking."
 <I don't understand.>
 <Remember your misunderstandings concerning John Sheridan during the
shadow war and just after when we were still fighting earthgov? Well,
that's what we have here. The difference is that you are in the position
of power. When you ask a question about something junior personnel are
doing, the natural assumption is that the action in question is wrong.>
 <You mean just by asking her about the dinners with the captain...>
 <Yep, you as much as told her it was wrong and that she shouldn't be
doing it.>
 <That's not fair, Paul.>
 <I won't argue that it is, but Sheridan said much the same thing twenty
years ago.>
 <Paul, how do I straighten this out. You know I think the world of
Willa and that her relationship with the captain is just what they both
need.>
 <I know that and you know that, but getting her to believe it will be
next to impossible. She won't believe a scan. She will think you are
faking it.>
 <Let's go see Captain Corwin.>
 <Do you think that will really help?>
 <It can't hurt.>
 *******************************************************************
 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.
 <Do you understand now?>
 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.]
 <That's true. I am not very interesting.>
 Susan gasped, "you scanned me."
 <No I didn't. You actually projected the thought. You are an untrained
latent telepath, but you do have some ability to project, however, it
does require another telepath to be listening.>
 <Did Lyta put you up to this?>
 <Up to what?>
 <You're my ‘babysitter'.>
 <No, I am not. Lyta asked me to escort you so you could get rid of the
security people. She knows you don't like to be coddled. She said that
after meeting you, I didn't have to do it if I didn't want to. She even
figured you might say no, in the first place. Personally, I am happy you
didn't.>
 <You remind me of Paul.>
 <How so?>
 <You are considerate, honest and good looking. That is not a bad
combination.>
 <I am me. What you see is what you get.>
 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.
 <A credit for your thoughts.>
 <I was just thinking of someone I used to know."
 Unconsciously Susan had moved closer to Mark. Mark had noticed, big
time.
 <Weren't there any others over the years that caught your eye?>
 <No. After losing Marcus I just avoided any situation that could
develop into anything. Do you know what they call me behind my back?"
 <No.>
 <I am the ‘Ice Queen'.>
 <I'll take your word for it. What do you think of this garden? The
plant layout and such?>
 <I hadn't thought about it very much. The arrangement is pleasing in a
relaxing sort of way. For some reason it seems to be soothing. I like
the variety of smells. Soft and lingering with some sharp bittersweet
odors in the background. It is a good stress reliever.>
 <Susan, I am getting hungrier. Shall we get something to eat.>
 His change of subject caught her completely off guard. <Yes.>
 Mark got up and offered her his hand. She took it and got up, however,
she didn't let go of his hand.
 <Where do you want to go to eat?>
<Earheart's.>
 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, <she
likes you Mark.>
 <No she doesn't. She is only being civil for appearance sake. I haven't
let her talk about anything but herself all day.>
 "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?"
 <I'm not sure that's appropriate.>
 <Mark, in case you didn't notice, I am a big girl now. Besides you need
to stay until I can get security back.>
 Walking into Susan's quarters, <okay, but only until security gets
here.>
 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" <xazqrten@norfolk.infi.net>
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.
     <Willa, talk to me, please.>
     <Why? You made it plain that you didn't want me pursuing a
relationship with the
captain.>
     <Willa, I thought we were friends.>
     <We were.>
     <Have you talked with Captain Corwin since this afternoon?>
     <Yes.>
     <What did you talk about?>

     <I don't think that is any of your business.>
     <Willa, anything that hurts my friends is my business.>
          <We were friends. The operative word is were, past tense.
Anything that I feel is none of
your business anymore.>
     <Willa, you have been my friend for more than fifty years. I will
not let it go. I don't think
for a minute that any relationship you might have Don Corwin could
possibly have any effect on
how you do your job. You need this relationship. He needs it too.>
     <If you didn't disapprove, why did you question me about it?>
     <I was only curious. It hurts very much to think you believed I
would do anything to harm
you. Other than Delenn Sheridan, you were the only other person I had
ever considered a real
friend, until I rescued the telepaths the Shadows had tried to use in
their ships. Susan Ivonava is
an acquaintance. She never really trusted me. She probably doesn't
really trust me now.>
     <The captain invited me into his quarters again tonight.>
     <Why didn't you go? Why do you always call him captain? Donald is
his first name. He
prefers Don.>
     <Titles are a good way to keep people at arm's length.>
     <Willa, the captain wants very much to hold you, but up close and
personal is what he
really wants.>
     <That's what I am afraid of.>
     <Why?>
     <You know that Psi Corps forced me to bear children. What you don't
know is that I was
impregnated artificially. I don't know who the fathers of my children
were. I don't know if my
children were boys or girls. I never saw any of them.>
     <Willa, yes, I did know. I am so sorry for you, but that is in the
past. Nothing we can do
will change what was. We can change what will be, by making choices
now.>
     <Lyta. I have never been with a man. I have never wanted to be with
a man until I met
Captain Corwin. I don't mean for sex. I just feel good when I am with
him.>
     <Are you afraid of what it will be like?>
     <Yes. I don't have any experience. I am afraid of disappointing
him.>
     <Don't be. Paul had no experience when we met. It didn't stop us
from having a good
relationship and after twenty years it is even better than when it first
started.>
     <I'll have to think about it.> without warning, Willa felt waves of
pleasure wash over her.
It was sheer ecstasy
     <That is just a taste of what it can be like.>
     Willa was asleep in five minutes. She dreamed very vividly. Lyta
shared her dreams and
knew that things would work out for the better.
     <Not bad, Lee. You are getting 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. <It isn't much fun
having a door
slammed in your face is it, Admiral?>
     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" <xazqrten@norfolk.infi.net>
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. <Good morning, we
have been
invited to have breakfast with Captain Corwin>.
     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.
     <Lyta, who is going to be present for the meeting between Londo and G'kar?>

     <Only me, my advisors and their aides, Captain Corwin and you. Don't you
want to go? I
thought the chance to pull Londo's leg one more time would be irresistible to
you.>
     <It does have its appeal. Will I get a chance to talk to Mark?>
     <That's up to him.>
******************************************************************************
     "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.
     <Do you want me to come? I have never been aboard your ship.>
     <Bring your aide.>
     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.
************************************************************************
     <Susan, will you accompany me and Willa on a little tour?>
     <Sure. Where are we going?>
     <I want you to see something in our medical facility.> 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.
     <I thought they were killed.>
     <No. I finally found a way to extend John's life beyond what Lorien gave
him.>
     Susan's jaw dropped just a bit. <How, did you do it?>
     Lyta explained about the triluminaries. <Now, it's my turn. If it can be
done would want
your life extended knowing you will remain youthful right up until the end?>
     <I have to think about it.>
     <Before you leave the planet, I am going to put blocks in place. You won't
remember any
of this. So think it about now, but don't take too long.>
     Susan was having trouble absorbing what she was seeing and hearing. <When
will you do
this to me?>
     <When it is time.>
     [Hell of an answer.]
     <I know.>
     <What the hell, no balls, no blue chips. Count me in Lyta.>
     As they were leaving the medical facility, Mark walked up to them. He
looked at Susan
and said, "you wanted to talk?"
     "Yes."
     <Susan, Willa and I will see you back at the briefing room.> 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.
     <Did your talk with Mark go well?>
     <As well as could be expected.>
     <Is he coming to the dinner tonight?>
     <No. He has other commitments, but we have a date for the next time I am on
the
planet.> **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" <xazqrten@norfolk.infi.net>
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.
      <Lyta!>
     <Willa, you don't have to yell.>
     Willa relayed the conversation to her.
     <Susan, all you need is a ride back to earth?>
     <Yes. I am not involved with the new orders.>
     <I have something to take care of on earth anyway. You
can go with me. The Whitestar Alpha will be safe enough.>
     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."
     <Goodnight, don't wait up for me.>
     <Never entered my mind.>
     "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
     <Yes. This way to the bridge.> Lyta led Willa and Susan to
the bridge of the Whitestar. There was no one there.
     <Where is the crew?> wondered Willa.
     <I am it.>
     <Lyta, how do you run this thing?>
     <Like I said it's my ship.>
     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.
     <How long until we reach earth?>
     <About six standard hours.>
     Susan just stared at Lyta.
     <How fast is this ship?>
     <Fast, very.>
     <Come on, I'll show you the wardroom and we can have
lunch.>
     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.
     <Lyta!>
     <You are seeing what the sensors see.>
     <Lyta, how?>
     <The ship and I are sort of one. Something like the
shadows, but without implants. Somewhat more sophisticated than
the vorlons, but essentially the same.>
     <Aren't you running a risk showing this to me?>
     <No.>
     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.
     <Come on Willa, we have a meeting with Alfred.>
     <Is it really necessary that I accompany you?>
     <You are the reason we are here.>
     <Have I done something wrong?> Willa was feeling uneasy.
She had escaped Psi Corps more than twenty years ago, but she
would still be listed as a rogue.
     <No. I think you are going to enjoy this visit.>
     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.
     <Lyta, Willa, welcome. Lyta, I found what you wanted.
They are in the conference room.>
     <Thanks Alfred. Willa follow me.>
     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. <Ladies, gentlemen, I know you
are wondering what this is all about, well it is about you and my
friend, Willa. Would you please be kind enough to introduce
yourselves to my friend?>
     The three women and two men, all in their early to middle
thirties did so.
     <Do any of you know what you have in common besides
being telepaths?>
     One of the women, dressed as a psicop, shook her head,
<no ma'am, to the best of our knowledge we have nothing in
common.>
     Lyta shook her head. <That is not entirely true. All of you
are, in fact, half brothers and sisters.>
     The men and women looked at one another in amazement.
     From one of the men, <ma'am what makes you think this?>
     <Mr. Bester summoned you here because of the fact that
you all have one parent in common.>
     The looks on their faces showed that the information had
literally stunned them.
     <Willa.>
     <No.>
     <Yes.>
     Willa sat down. She was in shock. It just couldn't be.
     <Ma'am?>, the psicop inquired, <are you my mother?>
     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.
     <How did they take it?>
     <Better than I would have.>
     *******************************

It's not over yet.