From fmlecou@mailbox.syr.eduSun Nov 19 13:39:09 1995 Date: Sun, 19 Nov 1995 16:08:08 -0500 (EST) From: "Felicia M. Le Cou" Reply to: b5-creative@blob.best.net To: b5-creative@blob.best.net Subject: B5: Crisis! Part 1 Crisis! By Felicia Le Cou fmlecou@mailbox.syr.edu Crisis! Part 1 For once, C & C was quiet. A lull, a silence. Such times were rare these days. C & C usually was in on of two states: Hell or Not Hell. At the moment it was Not Hell, and that's just the way Commander Susan Ivanova like it. "Lt. Corwin, What's the ETA on the Monet?" Ivanova asked. "It's not due until 1500," Lt. Corwin replied. Good, Ivanova thought to herself. Another four hours to prepare. She knew Captain Sheridan was excited about seeing his family, especially his sister, but that he was probably pacing back and forth with nervousness. Mothers have a way of doing that to sons, is what Sheridan told Ivanova when she questioned his pacing. Pace, he said. Mothers make you pace. Sheridan was quite close to his sister, Elizabeth-- or Lizzy--, but she knew that he hadn't seen his mother in a good eight years. "Commander, somthing's coming through the jumpgate." "Is the Monet early? Hail them." Lt. Corwin studied his display. "Uh. . .I don't think it's the Monet. Two, no four ships are coming through--" "What?" Ivanova peered over Corwin's shoulder. "Configuration reads one Centauri war cruiser followed by Drazi and Pak'Ma'Ra, and a Minbari battle cruiser. . . ." Corwin's voice trailed off. None of them had seen a Minbari battle cruiser since the Trigati mess a year ago. Adrenaline shot through Ivanova's veins. The effect was better than four cups of morning coffee. She wondered what the Centauri did this time? "Good God, what's going on out there." Ivanova checked the tactical display one more time then peered out the viewport. The Centauri war cruiser looked as if it was trying to keep the Drazi and Pak'Ma'Ra vessels between it and the Minbari ship. That's probably the smartest thing it could do considering that the Minbari ship didn't appear to be firing at the smaller two ships. What the Hell did the Centauri do to upset the Minbari? And whatever it was, why were the Centauri so stupid to upset them? "Ivanova to Sheridan," Ivanova spoke into her hand link. "Sheridan here, is the Monet docking?" "Nothing so calm, Captain. I think you should do your pacing on-deck. We have a problem. " 'We have a problem,' was a gross understatement. But Ivanova was never one to participate in hand-link melodrama. C & C was no longer in a state of Not Hell. +++ "What the Hell is going on out there?" Sheridan demanded as soon as Ivanova briefed him. "They're firing at each other?" Ivanova suggested, and received a well-deserved glare from Sheridan. Sighing, Ivanova told him, "None of the ships are answering our hails. Communication scans suggest that the Minbari battle cruiser is blocking outgoing signals from the Centauri, and we think the Pak'Ma'Ra and the Drazi vessels are simply ignoring us." "We have jumppoint opening from sector 6," Lt. Corwin called out. "And another opening from sector 12." Ivanova shared an alarmed look with Sheridan. Both military and non-military ships used the jumpgates. But usually only military ships had the resources to form their own jumppoints. "More company, I assume," Ivanova commented. "Two Minbari cruisers," Corwin spoke, "and three Centauri cruisers in from sector 12." "Since when did the Minbari get involved with this conflict?" Sheridan asked, his forehead furrowed as he contemplated the situation. Ivanova almost told him not to think too hard, that he'll get wrinkles. Instead, Ivanova just shrugged her shoulders; she certainly hadn't heard anything. "Get Delenn on-line," Sheridan snapped. "And Corwin, broadcast the following message, all frequencies." "Yes, Sir," Corwin replied as Ivanova signalled Delenn's quarters. "Attention all ships. You are violating Babylon 5 space with your hostile actions. Cease and desist fire at once, or we will be forced to take action." "Sir, are you crazy?" Ivanova burst out. Taking action against the Centauri would break the Earth-Centauri non-aggression treaty, the joke that it was anyway. Action against the Minbari equated plain suicide. End of story--possibly for all humanity. No one engaged in the battle outside Babylon 5 appeared to hear--unless the Minbari response was to unleash the final energy beam that destroyed the first Centauri war cruiser. "Close blast doors; brace for impact!" Ivanova grabbed onto the railing. "Apparently they didn't hear us," Sheridan muttered as he held the rail. "I'd really hate to think that the Minbari were purposely trying to provoke us." Ivanova's communications panel beeped. Finally. "I have Lennier on-line," Ivanova informed Sheridan. "I need to speak to Delenn," Sheridan said to the monitor showing Ambassador Delenn's aid. He then explained, "we have a situation up here that requires immediate attention." "Yes, we know. Ambassador Delenn-," Lennier emphasized Delenn's title, "--requests that an emergency session of the Council be convened." Ivanova didn't think she quite heard that tone in Lennier's voice since he first met Sheridan, and suggested that Sheridan not return to Delenn's quarters until "much" later. "Will you please confer to Ambassador Delenn that Captain Sheridan-" and Sheridan emphasized his title as well "-would like to speak to her now?" Sheridan's crankiness was a little too obvious, in Ivanova's opinion. Lennier looked sideways off screen, obviously very uncomfortable. "I apologize. Ambassador Delenn feels that such communication, given the current situation, would be . . . inappropriate. She will speak to you in chambers." Sheridan tensed, clenching his jaw, "Very well. Please inform the *Ambassador* that an emergency meeting of the Advisory Council in 20 minutes. End." Sheridan turned to Ivanova, "I can't believe she is pulling this right now. We don't have *time* for this 'I'm the Ambassador, you're the Captain crap.' This isn't like her at all, Commander. What do you make of that?" Ivanova shrugged, "I'm sure there's a perfectly reasonable explanation. You shouldn't take it personally. You really can't blame her for declining to speak with you right now, it would be seen as somewhat suspicious by--" "Ambassador Mollari is on-line," Lt. Corwin interrupted. "Captain Sheridan, I must speak with you," Mollari's hair was more out of place than usually. "Save it for the emergency council session. It starts in 15 minutes. Be there or be quiet." "But, my government protests your lack of action on our behalf!" Sheridan peered closely at the monitor; Mollari actually leaned back as if he was afraid Sheridan's head would burst through his monitor. "Excuse me? Ambassador? What exactly is your government's problem?" "They wish to know why you have not scrambled fighters on our behalf. We *do* have a treaty, you know." This was almost too ludicrous. "Ambassador Mollari!" Ivanova couldn't keep quiet any longer. Londo's pompousness lately had been getting on her nerves, more and more and more. But this took the cake. Wait, she should make him eat the cake; maybe they would all be lucky and he would choke on it. "I suggest you read the details of that treaty," Ivanova continued heatedly as Sheridan just watched her, his face bland. "The fact that Earth Alliance has a non-aggression treaty with Centauri Prime does not entitle the Centauri to military aid." "Thank you, Commander." Sheridan nodded at Ivanova. "That's just what I was about to say. Ambassador Mollari, there is an emergency meeting of the Advisory Council and League--" Ivanova noticed the Londo cringed slightly at the mention of the League. His government wasn't likely to get much sympathy for them. "--you will have your chance to speak out during the Council Session. End." "I'll inform the ambassadors," Ivanova said. "I'll also issue a general advisory to all incoming traffic. Until this blows over the area should be kept clear." "Agreed, but have Lt. Corwin do it." "Sir?" Ivanova's confusion spilled over into her voice. As chief of operations, certain duties had always been hers. "I need you at the Council session. Things might get out of hand and my temper is already frayed." "Understood, Lt. Corwin, you will carry out the Captain's orders." Ivanova waited for Lt. Corwin's acknowledging nod, then followed Sheridan out of C & C. To Be Continued. . . . Well, let me know what you think. Felicia. From fmlecou@MAILBOX.SYR.EDUTue Nov 21 16:17:32 1995 Date: Mon, 20 Nov 1995 16:23:49 -0500 (EST) From: "Felicia M. Le Cou" Reply to: b5-creative@blob.best.net To: Ari Cc: b5-creative@blob.best.net Subject: B5-Crisis! Part 2 Crisis! By Felicia Le Cou fmlecou@mailbox.syr.edu Part 2 Ten minutes before the Council session was to be convened only Sheridan, Ivanova, and Security Chief Michael Garibaldi were present. "Did you lock down?" Sheridan asked. "Yes, just as you ordered. My teams are patrolling now. Anyone who looks as if they are about to start trouble over this is mess is being hauled to the brig." "Well, things don't look so bad yet." Ivanova commented on the rooms emptiness. + + + Five minutes before the Council session was to be convened the room was bursting. Several members of the League also brought their attaches, and seating was becoming scarce. Garibaldi's new, unofficial, job seemed to be finding enough stools for everyone. "Garibaldi," Sheridan spoke lowly to his security chief, "would you mind sticking around once things get under way?" Sheridan watched the gathering crowd, and wondered if he should place armed security guards in the council chambers. "I don't know, Captain. Presence of armed security, even if it's just me, might set things off, if you know what I mean. But, if you like, I can wait just outside. . . ." "That would be better, Captain," added Ivanova. "Besides," and she pointedly looked around the crowded council chambers, "where would he sit?" Sheridan looked from Garibaldi to Ivanova, then nodded. "You're both right, of course. We don't know what's going on; we don't want to provoke anything." + + + Two minutes after the Council session was supposed to have convened, the chambers were silent. Sheridan was seated at the center of the Advisory table, and Ivanova was seated on the stool just behind him. The chair to Sheridan's right was conspicuously absent, although Lennier was perched on the stool right behind it. Ambassador Mollari was absent as well, and Vir pace nervously back and forth in front of his stool. Ambassador Kosh stood silently, as always, in his usual position to the right of the Advisory table. He had no assistant to attend him, which was a good thing because Ivanova didn't know if there would be room for two Vorlons in their encounter suites taking up space in crowded rooms such as this. She wondered if he would have any comments on the current situation. Kosh seldom ever spoke in Council sessions. Ivanova leaned over and whispered to Lennier, "Where is she?" Lennier shook his head, quickly. "She was speaking to our superiors when I left," his eyes flickered upwards a moment, "I should not say any more." Ambassador Mollari entered then. His face betrayed several emotions: anger, disgust, and possibly fear. Ivanova didn't blame him for being afraid. The Minbari Federation was at least 500 years ahead in technological know-how over the Centauri Republic. "Where is she!" Mollari bellowed before even reaching his seat. "She's late!" "And so are you, Ambassador," Sheridan reminded him. "Now sit down and be quiet." "I should not have to take such abuse from the Earth representative," Mollari said, probably for the benefit of the ISN news recorder hovering in the upper right-hand corner of the Council chambers. The Centauri ambassador adjusted his coat and seated himself. Vir finally stopped pacing and tentatively sat on his stool. "Okay, then," Sheridan addressed the assembly. "The Minbari delegation requested this meeting, and we will wait until everyone is here." Ivanova noticed that while Sheridan was referring to Delenn, he wasn't using her name nor her title. If he was still sore over his non-conversation with her earlier he needed to get over it. Otherwise he was in danger of losing his objectivity. Ivanova really wished that Sheridan would wait until Delenn showed and spoke her piece before judging her, or the Minbari. But still , she wished that the Minbari ambassador would hurry up and get here. Ivanova hated sitting in Council sessions, and wanted out of here as quickly as possible. + + + "Garibaldi to Welch," Garibaldi spoke into his hand link, his eyes scanning up and down the deserted corridor. "Welch here." "Hey Lou, how's it going out there?" "Broke up a couple of fights. Threw some Drazi and Centauri brawlers into the brig. How's the big meeting?" "Not so good, Lou, not so good. All the main players have yet to arrive--" Garibaldi spotted Delenn enter the corridor. When she saw Garibaldi she halted, took a deep breath, and continued walking towards him. "--listen, Lou. I'll keep you posted. Garibaldi out." Garibaldi waited patiently as Delenn approached. Each step she made echoed in the otherwise silent corridor. Her deep purple robes implied a confidence her face, paler than normal, did not convey. But still, she looked striking with her dark human seeming hair pinned up around her bone headset, or whatever it was. Garibaldi never did figure out how Delenn dealt with her hair since her transformation from her full Minbari state to her Minbari-Human state. He would have to ask Susan one of these days. "You all right, Ambassador?" Garibaldi asked, concerned. "Mr. Garibaldi," Delenn formally bowed in greeting. "Please let me pass. I believe I am expected." Garibaldi move to the side, hoping Delenn's severe formality wasn't bad news for the rest of them. "Garibaldi to Ivanova." "Ivanova here. Keep it down; you could here a pin drop in here." "Uh, right," Garibaldi tersely whispered. "Keep the link open, will ya? That way I can here any trouble brewing." + + + The silence of the council chambers broke with the sound of Ambassador Delenn's footsteps. Her face, unlike Mollari's, was completely expressionless. her mannerisms reminded Ivanova of the first few Council sessions she ever witnessed, before Delenn's change. Ivanova imagined she felt a chill enter the room. No, wait, there *was* a chill in the room. The opening chambers door let in a draft. Delenn formally bowed to the assembly before crossing the chamber's floor to take her place. As she passed the Advisory table, she looked briefly up at Sheridan, but quickly looked away. Ivanova couldn't see Sheridan's face, but sensed tension from him. And although Delenn showed no emotion on her face, Ivanova just knew the Minbari ambassador was upset. Ivanova also suspected that Delenn took the long way around to her seat just to get a better sense of what was going on with Sheridan. But then again, Delenn may just not want to pass closer to Londo than necessary. Emotions were sometimes tricky to interpret; Ivanova tried not to notice them. But in tense situations such as this, she couldn't help but pick up on them. Sheridan was worried about his mother and sister arriving in the middle of this entire mess. Christ, Ivanova hoped that Lt. Corwin was able to get a message through to the Monet. "This is the situation," Sheridan opened the session with no preamble, no ceremony. Too bad for the ISN news recorder. "Approximately 30 standard minutes ago a Centauri war-cruiser entered Babylon 5 space, closely pursued by a Drazi, a Pak'Ma'Ra, and a Minbari war-cruiser. A collective gasp arose from the assembly. Ivanova wondered if Garibaldi heard it over the link. "Soon after," the Captain continued, "two additional Minbari and three Centauri ships arrived. And we have convened this emergency session of the Advisory Council and the League of Non- Aligned Worlds at the request of the Minbari delegation. "Yes, yes. How wonderful for the Minbari delegation," Ambassador Mollari spoke as if annoyed. "Captain, What I wish to know is what the Earth Alliance plans to do about the unwarranted Minbari destruction of a Centauri exploring vessel!" "Just what does your government expect the Earth Alliance to do, Ambassador?" "Ambassador Mollari," Delenn's voice reverberated throughout the chambers, over riding the impact of Sheridan's question. "It was hardly an unwarranted attack. Your recently destroyed warship, *not* an explorer vessel, destroyed a Minbari listening post in Minbari territory and killed two Minbari citizens." "A mistake," Mollari tried to reassure Delenn. "The captain of the vessel was under the impression the listening post belonged to the Drazi. You would start a war over a mistake?" "So, you think a mistake makes it all right?" Sheridan asked. "Not war," Delenn replied, "Not yet anyhow. The Centauri's mistake had to be paid for, and in the eyes of my government, it has been. Of course, if Centauri Prime truly wishes a war with the Minbari Federation, Ambassador Mollari, keep your remaining cruisers in Babylon 5 space, don't sensibly sending them away. Our ships won't start a war. . .not unless provoked." "If your ships fire at ours," Mollari warned, "then our allies will come to our aid." "By what reality of thinking, Ambassador Mollari?" Sheridan asked. "No, don't bother. I think I understand your twisted logic, even though it is dead wrong. Let me take this opportunity to point out that the Centauri, Drazi, Pak'Ma'Ra, and Minbari are all violating Babylon 5 space with these hostile actions. This skirmish has placed this station at risk, and I cannot allow it to continue. I must insist that it stop or be moved elsewhere, or we will have to get involved." Ambassador Mollari smiled, thinking he scored a point for his position. Delenn stood and moved back to the floor. Kosh tilted his head in a curious way, which suggested to Ivanova that maybe he was paying attention to the proceedings after all. "Then, let me take this opportunity to say this," Delenn looked straight into Mollari's eyes. "Any involvement by the Earth Alliance in this matter will ensure war, for Earth, with the Minbari Federation. Earth can not and will not help you in this matter. Additionally, be sure to inform your government that should Centauri Prime decide to declare war on the Minbari Federation over this, or any, reason, that we will return in kind, against you and your...official . . . allies." Delenn looked around at, briefly making eye contact with Ivanova. *I don't like this*--the thought erupted in Ivanova's mind. The hairs on the back of her neck rose in response. I wasn't her thought, it wasn't her's so it must be Delenn's. "That is the Minbari position. Good Day." Delenn didn't return to her seat, but walked out of the chambers as if she couldn't escape that room soon enough. Ivanova felt the same way. She leaned over to Lennier once again. "Well, that was brief and to the point, wasn't it?" "Unpleasantly so, Commander," Lennier agreed. "Well, Captain? What do you plan to do?" Mollari demanded once again. "Not what you expect," Sheridan replied. "Earth Alliance may have a *non*-aggression treaty with Centauri Prime, but basically all that is is a sieve that exceptions run through faster than water. Earth Alliance doesn't want to involve itself your government's dirty little wars, Mollari, so give it up. The wisest thing for your government to do would be to pull those Centauri cruisers out of Babylon 5 space and issue an apology to the Minbari government." "Then, Captain, unfortunately we have nothing left to talk about." "Just this, Ambassedor," Sheridan jabbed his finger in Mollari's direction. "You had best pray to whatever you hold dear that this situation doesn't escalate. It was *your* people who made the error, and by bringing this conflict into Babylon 5's space you have placed this entire station at risk! How do you respond to that, *Ambassedor*." The Centauri ambassedor regarded Captain Sheridan for a moment, then stomped towards the chamber's entrance. "Well, Vir?" he turned back a moment, "Are you coming?" Vir looked startled, "Uh, yes Ambassador Mollari." The aide bowed briefly to the assembly before scurrying out. Sheridan sighed and pounded his gavel. "This session is now closed." And then, and then Sheridan's hand link beeped. "Captain, two more Drazi ships and two Pak'Ma'Ra vessels just entered Babylon 5 space. The Centauri scrambled their fighters." Sheridan took a deep breath and looked around the emptying chambers. Kosh was still in his usual place. "Well, what do you think of all this, Ambassador?" "Enough," was all Kosh said, or all his translator relayed, before he, too, left the council chambers. From fmlecou@mailbox.syr.eduWed Nov 22 14:18:47 1995 Date: Wed, 22 Nov 1995 12:03:29 -0500 (EST) From: "Felicia M. Le Cou" Reply to: b5-creative@blob.best.net To: b5-creative@blob.best.net Subject: Crisis! Part 3 (No Seas. Three Spoilers I just wanted to let everyone know that Crisis! doesn't contain third season spoilers. Someone told me that the reason she hadn't started reading it was because of the fear that I would reveal all of the third season in my story. Crisis! takes place between the Fall of Night and Matters of Honor. No third season spoilers are here..... :) Felicia. fmlecou@mailbox.syr.edu ---------------------------------------------------------------------- Crisis! By Felicia Le Cou fmlecou@mailbox.syr.edu Part 3 Garibaldi listened to Delenn's words through the hand link with a growing sense of dread. When he heard her saying 'Good Day' he moved aside from the door to ensure that she didn't feel he was trying to hinder her in any way. "Ambassador?" "Mr. Garibaldi?" "So, what--" Garibaldi stopped speaking when Mollari's voice started traveling over the his hand link. He and Delenn both listened with interest to Sheridan's reply. "For security purposes," Garibaldi explained, since Delenn looked curious. "Mr. Garibaldi, I'm quite aware that this session was by no means private, which will hopefully work to everyone's advantage in the end. your media will bring word to Earth's officials faster than even the Captain's report." "Well, whatever makes it through the sensors. Playing for the media, then?" "In a way...but my government is taking this entire situation very seriously...but what I was curious about was this 'sieve' Sheridan spoke of. What is it?" "Oh," Garibaldi smiled. "It's used to strain food. Like Spaghetti that's been boiled in water, or maybe vegetables." "Consorting with the enemy? Ambassador Delenn?" Londo pushed past them with Vir in tow. Garibaldi resisted the urge to reach out and grab the Centauri ambassador by the hair and drag him to the nearest airlock. "Hey, Vir. Tell your boss that I said to stuff it. Next time he's that rude to somebody hopefully he'll stick around long enough for the insult to be returned." "Of course, Mr. Garibaldi. I'll tell him," Vir quickly bowed and retreated after Mollari. Garibaldi could tell that the kid was having a rough day. "I should go, but I was wondering...," Delenn spoke lowly, "Please ask Captain Sheridan to contact me at his convenience. Tell him," and here Delenn paused again, "tell him that the reason I couldn't speak with him earlier was...was because I was in the middle of a communication from Minbar, and. . . ." "The Grey Council?" "Yes," Delenn's voice grew cautious, her eyes slightly narrowed. Garibaldi instantly regretted mentioning the Grey Council, since apparently it was not common knowledge that they were the ones who ran things on Minbar. Not common knowledge for non- Minbari, anyway. "Good Day," Delenn ended the conversation quickly. She bowed and walked quickly down the corridor as people began filing out of the Council chambers. Garibaldi began to wonder how much of what she told the other ambassadors was a bluff. Earth, no matter, what the upper echelon thought, was not ready for another full blown war with the Minbari, and he hoped to God that such a thing would not happen. + + + "Lt. Corwin, did you manage to contact all scheduled incoming traffic?" Sheridan asked as soon as he, Ivanova, and Garibaldi entered C & C. "All save the Monet, sir." Sheridan sighted, "Then keep trying to hail it." "Yes, Sire. Also, General Hague is waiting on-line for you, Sir." "Thank you, Lt," Sheridan walked towards the ready room. "Commander...." "Sir?" "I want you to keep a close eye on the situation out there. Try not to provoke anything, but if they target us, or any civilians, make sure we're ready." Ivanova nodded; she knew what was at stake. "Ready defensive grid." "Uh...can I speak to you a moment?" "Garibaldi, are you questioning my judgement?" "No, no, no..." Garibaldi led Ivanova away to the edge of C & C, away from Lt. Corwin or any others who might hear casual conversation. "I just want to know what happened when Sheridan tried to contact Delenn earlier?" "Well, Lennier intercepted and played formal liaison. The Captain got frustrated; I think he still is. But really, he shouldn't be because it's not Delenn's fault--" "No, listen, I need to get down to the security office, so I need you to pass on a message. Delenn spoke to me afterwards, and-" "I know, You didn't turn off your link. I'll tell him as soon as he's off the horn with Hague." + + + "What do you mean, I can't take action." Sheridan hoped that General Hague would have some useful insights to offer him in this situation. he didn't suspect he would be hearing this. "John, listen, the Minbari government made it clear that if we get involved with this in any way that they will retaliate. The only way for Earth to remain neutral in this situation is to, literally, stay out of it." "By not getting involved, General, we allow Babylon 5 to be kept hostage in her own territory. What if they target the station." "Then use the interceptors. If you must scramble fighters, fine, but keep them away from the conflict and only use them to intercept fire. I'm serious about this, John. Earth does not want trouble with Minbar. I've been on-line with Sinclair for the last half-hour and he is certain that faction of the Minbari government are willing to use this situation as an excuse to finish what they started during the last war." "And what if a civilian ship gets caught up in this? With so many different types of fighters, a civilian ship might be destroyed by mistake." General Hague's face blanched. "Then hope there's no incoming traffic, because President Clark has tied all our hands." After the transmission ended, Sheridan hit his desk in frustration. "Damn! Damn! And Damn again!" The door indicator beeped. "Yeah!" Commander Ivanova entered, noticing Sheridan's clenched fists and jaw. Well, she thought, at least he wasn't pacing. "Sir, we still haven't been able to reach the Monet. But news of this situation is all over the nets. If they are anywhere that can pick up any frequencies, then they will hear about what is going on." "But what if they decide to come anyway? What if the Captain of the Monet figures because he or she is part of the Earth Alliance, the Monet will be safe. Because Babylon 5 is expected to protect it once it arrives in our space?" "What did General Hague say?" "That we can't do anything, even if a civilian ship is endangered. That Ambassador Sinclair reports that the Minbari are waiting for any excuse for a war, and are hoping this pans out for them--" "But you know that isn't a universal sentiment, don't you?" Ivanova asked. "What do you mean?" "You must know that Delenn is not happy with the situation." "I haven't the foggiest with what is going on with Delenn right now." Now Ivanova was the one pacing. "Sir, I'm going to speak frankly and you can take it any way you want. But it's something that you have to remember when it comes to Delenn. She is the Ambassador for Minbar. And although she may not always agree with what their policies are, she still has to deliver them impartially and objectively. You must also know that she is not exactly on her government's A list right now, and I found out that when you tried to contact her earlier she was in contact, on another line, with the Grey Council." Sheridan looked surprised when Ivanova mentioned the Grey Council. Perhaps he didn't think that knew about them. "They are watching her as closely as Psi-Corp wishes it could be watching us right now," Ivanova continued. "She's in a difficult position, and you didn't make it any easier today in chambers. But. . .she would like to speak with you when you have a moment. . ." Ivanova took in a great breath of air. She sometimes forgot to breath when speaking passionately in Russian-style speeches. "Commander," Lt. Corwin's voice came across Ivanova's hand link. "We have trouble out here. The Drazi and Pak'Ma'Ra' ships are meeting heavy fire--" Corwin's voice went silent, then the station shook. "Uh, Commander, they've been. . . been destroyed, and the Centauri fighters have started firing at the Minbari battle cruisers. The Minbari have scrambled their fighters." "I'll be right there, Corwin," Captain Sheridan spoke, heading to the door. "Have they targeted the station?" "No, it's as if they are ignoring the fact that we're here." Ivanova sighed, apparently now was not the time to talk to him about Delenn. Damn Sheridan for not listening. Ivanova followed Sheridan out of C & C, cursing the entire situation under her breath. "Lt. Corwin, have you been able to raise the Monet yet?" she asked softly; Sheridan started pacing back and forth on the deck. "No, but I issued the warning to the Io Transfer point. ISN is also broadcasting the current situation all over the nets." "Good," Ivanova nodded her head. For once the media was doing its job. Perhaps the Monet would hear about the trouble going on and stay away voluntarily. (as always, any comments are appreciated....the only reason I even wrote this was that I *hoped* it would be entertaining...if nothing else....) Felicia. fmlecou@mailbox.syr.edu From fmlecou@mailbox.syr.eduThu Nov 23 22:05:32 1995 Date: Thu, 23 Nov 1995 20:33:51 -0500 (EST) From: "Felicia M. Le Cou" Reply to: b5-creative@blob.best.net To: "Trudy A. Goold" , barrie , grems@cunyvm.cuny.edu Cc: b5-creative@blob.best.net Subject: Crisis! Part 4 Crisis! By Felicia Le Cou fmlecou@mailbox.syr.edu Part 4 "Ambassador, pacing is not going to make this situation dissolve and go away," Lennier said, already tired from watching the Ambassador pace back and forth, and back and forth some more. "Lennier, everything we have worked for has been jeopardized. The Grey Council has threatened war on the Earth-Alliance if they interfere in any way, yet our battle cruisers have stood by while the Centauri destroyed Drazi and Pak'Ma'Ra vessels? I do not like this, I do not like this. . . ." "But there is nothing you can do," Lennier pointed out. "The battle cruisers will not fire on any civilian ships, correct?" "Those are their instructions, but if Sheridan finds cause to scramble Babylon 5's fighters, then I don't know what will happen. A year ago, I could have stopped this before it got so far. Neroon is behind this; I know it is he who wants war with Earth. Why else continue to provoke Sheridan in what is supposed to be neutral territory?" "You have been in contact with the Satai since the Emergency Council Session?" Lennier sounded surprised. "Briefly, yes, with Hedronn. But he has given me no concrete authority in this matter. Our battle cruisers will not leave unless the Centauri government meets three conditions: The must issue an apology, promise reparations, and remove their warships from this area." Delenn didn't stop pacing yet; Lennier resisted the urge to pace with her, but managed to remain standing in one place. What she said, however, gave him cause for concern. "You did not mention this at the Council Session." Delenn waved her hand, distractedly. "I spoke with Mollari after my contact with Hedronn. He maintains that the Centauri government refuses to be humiliated in such a manner. But I fear if they do not, that the Federation will soon be at war with them." "Perhaps not, Delenn." "Lennier, several Pak'Ma'Ra and Drazi vessels have been destroyed already. This causes me concern, especially since the Drazi are providing training for several of our Rangers. The Warrior Caste is not aware of that, however....But the Centauri war cruisers have not left yet. Why else would they remain behind except to engage our forces?" Delenn increased the speed of her pacing. Surely she must be dizzy by now, Lennier thought. He took in a deep breath. "Again, as I said before, there is nothing you can do." Suddenly, Delenn's pacing ceased. "You're correct," she said, looking Lennier in the eye with an intensity that made him look down. "Then," she continued, "if there is nothing I can do, I am foolish to stay here, where all I can do is pace. If anyone calls for me, I will be in the Garden." The door opened and Lennier looked up before she left, confused. Delenn waited. "But, which part?" he asked. "I do not know," Delenn replied thoughtfully. "I will be where I am, where I walk to." The communications panel beeped after Delenn left the room. It was Captain Sheridan. "Yes, Captain? How can I help you?" "Is Ambassador Delenn in? She asked me to contact her?" Lennier nodded, "Of course. I was told to tell you that she is in the Garden." Sheridan looked confused, "Which part?" "She didn't say." After the Captain's communication ended, Lennier began pacing. He really should meditate to alleviate his anxiety, he thought. But he continued pacing anyway. + + + Ivanova sighed, looking out the viewport for the umpteenth time to see if she could spot any changes. The Centauri and Minbari ships both scrambled fighters over an hour ago, but at the moment they weren't firing on each other. They hovered silently in space, objects in a canvas painting that never seemed to move. If they were lucky, they wouldn't start. Earlier, Ambassador Mollari called Sheridan and they both shared a heated discussion on what Earth could not/should not/would not do on the Centauri Republic's behalf. After Mollari explained the Minbari conditions for withdrawal, Sheridan suggested that if the Centauri simply complied, this whole silly mess would end. Of course, Londo objected to being called 'silly.' Ivanova herself was convinced that this was some strange sort of payback for Babylon 5's destruction of a Centauri war cruiser only four days before. The Centauri wanted Earth to take sides more than just on paper, which Earth simply couldn't do, especially against the Minbari. "Commander Ivanova," Lt. Corwin called out, "The Centauri fighters are engaging. They are exchanging fire!" Damn! Damn! "Surely the Centauri cannot lock on?" Ivanova commented, remembering that the Minbari stealth technology somehow prevented computer lock-ons. In any case, it was time to drag Sheridan back into the playground. "Ivanova to Sheridan, the party's starting up again out there." "Any new arrivals?" he asked. "No sir," Ivanova spoke quietly into her link, knowing that by now, the Captain was more than a little concerned about his family. "Ambassador Mollari is on-line." Ivanova turned to the communications monitor, "What is it now, Ambassador?" "I *need* to speak with Sheridan! Where is he?" "On his way, can I help you?" Ivanova was trying to remain polite, but it was difficult. The last week all she wanted to do every time she saw the Centauri ambassador was rip his head off and stuff it out a refuse chute. "Look outside, Commander. I did what was required and the Minbari haven't withdrawn their warships. On the contrary, now their fighters are shooting at us!" "Our instruments show that your fighters engaged first," Ivanova replied, nodding to Sheridan as he joined her in front of the monitor. "My government issued an apology, promised reparations, but they are still there!" Mollari conveniently ignored Ivanova's last comment. "Ambassador, I believe your third condition was to withdraw your cruisers--" "Commander Ivanova. . . ." Ivanova turned back to Lt. Corwin. She really hated these constant interruptions. "--from Babylon 5's space. Have you thought of that?" finished Sheridan to Ambassador Mollari. "What is it, Lt?" Ivanova asked Corwin. "Mr. Lennier is on-line." Ivanova nodded, but was reluctant to leave her spot just yet. "Yes!" Mollari replied to Sheridan's question. Perhaps he was now genuinely panicked. "We have tried to send our cruisers a message, but they don't appear to be responding to it." Ivanova hated to leave hearing distance, but given the information Mollari was telling the Captain, she figured she should find out what Lennier needed. "Ivanova here--" she felt momentarily foolish, it was a visual feed after all. But habits were sometimes hard to break. "Commander Ivanova, I am unable to locate Ambassador Delenn. The Captain called for her earlier, is she there?" "No, what's going on?" "I recently received a message from my government, ordering our battle cruisers out of Babylon 5 space, but they are not responding to my signal." "That's strange, neither are the Centauri ships, I assumed the Minbari were blocking them." "Yes, earlier, but now I do not know what is happening, we cannot get through." Ivanova sighed, "Well, I will try to send another signal, Lennier, but they haven't responded to C & C so far--" "Commander Ivanova!" "What!" she roared; Lennier flinched. "Corwin, I hate it when you wear out my name." "The jumpgate's activating. You said you wanted to know immediately! Did you not get enough coffee today? Or what!" "Who is it?" Ivanova asked in her most composed I-want-to-rip- your-lungs-out voice. "A shuttle class ship--it's the Monet." "Hail them!" "They aren't responding." "That damn block must be covering the entire region!" Ivanova muttered. The Captain halted his speech to Mollari, who's face held surprise as it flickered from view. Watching the viewport, Sheridan asked, " What's her ETA, Lieutenant?" "Forty-eight minutes at her present velocity, Sir." "There's no way they can keep to their current flight path," Ivanova felt increasingly uneasy. She knew that the Monet could not reach the station in that time frame because the thickest fighting between the Minbari and Centauri fighters blocked the ship's direct flight path. More than anything, Ivanova wanted to scramble the fighters, but she knew that war would likely follow. Ivanova watched with dread filling her stomach. She was right, the Monet changed course, bringing it nearer to one of the large Minbari battle cruisers, to the Krigor, the one that destroyed the first Centauri Cruiser. "Commander," Corwin sounded alarmed, "The Minbari ship is targeting--" "Oh no. . .this isn't happening. . .Zeta Wing, prepare for launch. Fire interceptors!" Ivanova ordered. "Prepare to launch Zeta Wing!" Sheridan yelled simultaneously. But it was already too late. The large Minbari ship shot out a single burst of energy. The interceptor bolts that spewed forth from the station were pitifully inadequate. The Monet was out of range; the Minbari energy beam reached the Monet first. The Monet disappeared from their sights in a single, brilliant flash. . Let me know if you want to find out what happens next. If I don't hear from anyone, it might be a while before I post the next segment (the only blackmailing technique I have to get feedback) Later!> Felicia fmlecou@mailbox.syr.edu From fmlecou@mailbox.syr.eduThu Nov 23 22:05:35 1995 Date: Thu, 23 Nov 1995 22:57:40 -0500 (EST) From: "Felicia M. Le Cou" Reply to: b5-creative@blob.best.net To: "Trudy A. Goold" Cc: barrie , grems@cunyvm.cuny.edu, b5-creative@blob.best.net Subject: Crisis! Part 5 Well, since I received such emphatic response to my last segment, here is segment five. Trudy, thank you so much for your feedback :) And, *one* of these days I will complete my school projects..... Crisis! By Felicia Le Cou fmlecou@mailbox.syr.edu Part 5 "God *Damn* it!" Sheridan brought his fist down, crashing the side panel of Corwin's station. "Oh my God," Ivanova discovered that she was having a hard time breathing. "Oh my God." "I want you to target that cruiser, lieutenant," Sheridan instructed. "Sir?" "You heard me!" "Belay that," Ivanova yelled. Sheridan glared at her, but didn't repeat the order to Corwin. "Commander?" Lennier was still on-line, "What is going on? Are you all right?" "Lennier, something very bad just happened. You had better inform your government that one of your war cruisers, I think the Krigor, just shot down a shuttle transport." Lennier's eyes widened, "This is an Earth ship?" he asked hesitantly. "Yes," Ivanova replied. Then she ended the transmission. Ivanova didn't know how to react, or what to say. John Sheridan never did order Zeta Wing launched. He didn't have a chance, and now he looked stunned, his face ashen. He stared out the viewport as if he couldn't believe what he just saw. The doors to C & C opened. Ivanova half expected Garibaldi to enter, but wasn't surprised when Delenn stepped off the lift, and from the neutral expression on her face it was obvious that she didn't know what just happened. Garibaldi entered closely behind her, though. Which wasn't the best place for any Minbari to be, even Delenn. "Delenn," Ivanova attempted to intercept her near the lift, "Lennier was just calling for you." "Yes, Mr. Garibaldi said that you were looking for me?" "*I* was looking for you!" Sheridan spoke up. "You said to contact you," Sheridan accused from C & C's deck. "I tried to contact you. But when *you* weren't where you were supposed to be! I asked Mr. Garibaldi to have his teams look around for you. The garden, *Ambassador*, is a very large place." Delenn looked confused and advanced towards Sheridan, stepping down the steps to C & C, "Why are you so angry?" "Delenn?" Ivanova tried to take her arm and lead her back to the lift. "Now is not a good time," she tried to warn her, but Delenn shook off her hand, stepping closer to Sheridan. But Sheridan turned his back to everyone in C & C, staring instead out the viewport, fixating on the Monet's last point before its destruction. Delenn turned her attention to Ivanova, her manner uncertain. "Commander, what is--" "What, is exactly what I would like to know," Garibaldi was as oblivious as Delenn regarding the events that just took place. Ivanova didn't want to have to tell them what just happened, but if she didn't, who would? Ivanova took a deep breath, "The Monet was just shot down by a Minbari battle cruiser Krigor." "Aw, Damn," Garibaldi said quietly, then glanced towards Sheridan. Sheridan's back was still turned to them. "No," Delenn said lowly. "That is impossible. The cruisers were under specific order *not* to harm any vehicles other than the Centauri, and then *only* if they provoked action." Sheridan whirled around before Ivanova could reply, "Well, it happened, Ambassedor! Does the Minbari government have a response? We all saw it happen, the computers recorded it," Sheridan waited for Delenn to respond. But she didn't respond quick enough. "Here, let me show you," Sheridan motioned Delenn over to Lt. Corwin's tactical display. Delenn glided up the steps to stand next to Sheridan behind Corwin's station. "Corwin, replay the incident in question." Lt. Corwin glanced nervously behind him before typing in the commands to replay the Monet's destruction. "Susan, this is not good," Garibaldi stated. Ivanova, distracted by what was going on, just shook her head. Delenn, watching the tactical, shook her head, "I had no idea the Krigor would do such a thing. Of course, my government will make whatever reparations required--" "That's not good enough, Delenn!" Sheridan yelled. "What would you have me do?" Delenn asked. "It's already happened. I cannot change the past. All I can do is--" "You could have been up here before this happened," Sheridan countered. "You could have communicated to your mighty battle ship out there that the Monet was a civilian transport, and that it posed no threat--" Sheridan's voice broke, Delenn stepped backwards, towards the lift and towards Ivanava. "Delenn, his family was on-board the Monet. His sister, his mother. . . we weren't able to get a message through to stay away." Delenn raised her hand, covering her mouth in horror. She looked back to Sheridan, who listened to Ivanova's explanation without change in expression. Delenn took in a deep; Ivanova found herself mirroring that deep breath. She opened her mouth to speak, but no words came out. Delenn took another deep breath, her hand reached forward, brushing Sheridan's sleeve. "John? I am truly--" "Don't!" Sheridan moved away, Delenn flinched. His gaze fell on Delenn. He looked at her but didn't seem to really see her. "Not now, you should go." "You must know that my government did not condone--" "I don't care. You *could* have prevented this." Lt. Corwin, uncomfortable at being so close to an emotional confrontation, moved away from his post. Ivanova didn't blame him. She sort of wished she wasn't here to witness this ugly scene. "I--" Delenn tried to speak "Mr. Garibaldi," Sheridan silenced Delenn with the volume of his voice. "Please escort *Ambassador* Delenn out of C & C." Sheridan pointed his finger at Corwin, "Lt. Corwin, launch Zeta." "Captain," Garibaldi sounded concern. "Are you sure that's wise? I mean--" "Captain," Delenn pleaded, "please, such an action--" "Garibaldi, I believe I gave you an order!" Garibaldi looked from Sheridan to Delenn, and back again, "John, get hold of yourself." "Launch Zeta squadron, now! Mr. Garibaldi, get the Minbari ambassedor out of here." Before anyone could respond Sheridan exited to his office. Ivanova wanted to slug Sheridan at this point. She understood the pain of his loss, she could feel it. But she couldn't block out the pain Delenn was experiencing. "I'll uh," Garibaldi motioned after the Captain, "Right," Garibaldi followed after Sheridan. Delenn stood silently on C & C's deck. Stunned was the only adjective Ivanova could think of. Ivanova approached Delenn, reached out and took her limp hand. "C'mon," Ivanova said softly. "It's time to go." + + + "Give him some time, Delenn," Ivanova said to Delenn in the access lift. She wasn't sure how encouraging that would come accross, especially after Sheridan basically told her that Delenn was responsible for his family's death. No, it couldn't be encouraging. Ivanova never knew that someone could pace so much in such a confined space. "You relayed my message, yes? Mr. Garibaldi said you did...of course you did. Sheridan did indicate that he tried to contact me." Ivanova nodded, "Yes, I told him why you couldn't speak with him earlier, but he really wasn't paying attention. This whole thing about his mother visiting has made him crazy for days. And when this mess with the Centauri appeared on Babylon 5's doorstep, he was already under a lot of pressure." "And had we not been involved," Delenn's voice betrayed her sadness and regret, "then the problem would have been taken care of long before it came to this. Perhaps if I was able to contact the Krigor--" "No, I spoke with Lennier. There wasn't anything you could have done." "There never seems to be anythng that can be done. I tire of this helplessness. And now, there still isn't anything that can be done. My government will still interpret any Earth involvement as-- " "Delenn, Babylon 5 is involved now. There's no doubt in my mind of that." Ivanova instantly regretted pointing out that little fact, because Delenn then lost her balance as she pivoted in her pacing, and stumbled. Ivanova steadied her by catching hold of her shoulders. "Then we will soon be at war, I'm afraid," Delenn whispered. When she realized Ivanova was still supporting her weight, she pulled herself upright, clutching the hand rail for balance. "Do you really believe your government will still declare war? Even when they have been trying to recall your ships?" Delenn registered this new information; shock and surprise crossed her face. "Then it is true," she said. "What is true, Delenn?" "The battle cruisers are deliberately attempting to provoke war." "Are they rogue? If they are rogue wouldn't your government want them stopped." Delenn shook her head, "No, it isn't that simple. The Trigati was the only rogue ship that my government ever admitted to. The humiliation in admitting that three other cruisers are also disobeying...." "The Grey Council," prompted Ivanova. "I know who they are, Delenn, so you don't need to step around them." "The Council," Delenn gave in only part way. "The Council will not admit that they are losing control." "Are they?" Ivanova's gaze met Delenn's, but then Delenn looked away. Ivanova sensed that her question unsettled her more than even the news of Sheridan's loss. "It has been an upsetting morning, Susan. Has it not?" Delenn wouldn't look back at Ivanova's face. "It almost seems as if the forces behind the coming darkness are laughing at us. They laugh as we muddle through each day, through each situation, when in fact, we should be working together if we hope to survive what is coming. "Todays like today fragment our wills. . . ." "Delenn," Ivanova took the other woman's hand, squeezing it tightly. She wasn't sure what exactly the Minbari ambassador was referring to by "coming darkness," but Ivanova knew that those words accurately defined the current situation--especially if Minbar declared war on Earth over it. The lift doors opened before Ivanova could say anything else to Delenn. A frazzled looking Ambassador Mollari stood there, and the expression on his face suggested that he felt he had been waiting far too long. Delenn straightened up, withdrawing her hand from Ivanova's. "Thank you for your time, Commander." Delenn said formally, her voice distant. She bowed briefly before leaving the lift. The Centauri Ambassador frowned as Delenn walked down the corridor. "What is going on?" Mollari demanded. "I got cut off when your 'C & C' went 'keblewy,' and--" Ivanova stood patiently as Mollari furtively looked down the corridor where Delenn had gone. "--and why is Ambassador Delenn look as if she had just been on a trip to ...Hell? And is Captain Sheridan still up there? And...." The Centauri ambassador made it obvious that Ivanova couldn't politely escape his company without first answering some of his questions. Ivanova sighed, finally holding up her hand to halt Mollari's prattling. "One, Delenn was just in Hell, Londo. C & C is a war zone, and if you go up there you will discover that for yourself--which I don't recommend right now, no matter how urgent you think you need to talk to Captain Sheridan. "And, although you haven't asked yet, yes, we *are* working on your problem even though as far as I can tell, your people created it in the first place. By the way, the Centauri government may get it's wish." "Uh, what do you mean?" Mollari asked nervously. "The Earth Alliance may soon be at war with the Minbari Federation," Ivanova informed him. "Especially now that a Minbari battle cruiser shot down the shuttle that was bringing Sheridan's mother and sister to Babylon 5 for a visit." "No. That is terrible. Uh...if fire is exchanged between the Minbari and Earth-Alliance fighters...what are the chances that Babylon 5 should be targeted?" "Very likely, Ambassador," Ivanova replied. "Have a nice day." Ivanova left Mollari standing gape-mouthed in the corridor as she followed after Delenn. He looked rather surprised, actually, and normally, if she hadn't been so worried about Delenn that moment, Commander Susan Ivanova would have been amused. To be continued..... As always, comments and criticisms are appreciated :) Note to Barrie, I changed the confrontation afterall...what did you think? Felicia. fmlecou@mailbox.syr.edu From fmlecou@mailbox.syr.eduSat Nov 25 22:12:56 1995 Date: Sat, 25 Nov 1995 12:35:52 -0500 (EST) From: "Felicia M. Le Cou" Reply to: b5-creative@blob.best.net To: watkins julia k , barrie , katelight , grems@cunyvm.cuny.edu, b5-creative@blob.best.net Subject: Crisis! Part 6 Well, there's been so much going through the list the last couple of days, I really hope that this doesn't get lost in the midst of everything... Note to Isoline: I really enjoyed reading segment 23 of Patterns....now, I need to find 22. . . . Felicia. fmlecou@mailbox.syr.edu Crisis! By Felicia Le Cou fmlecou@mailbox.syr.edu Part 6 "Delenn!" Lennier stood from his seat the moment Delenn entered her quarters. "I have been trying to reach you, but you weren't--" "Anywhere to be found. Yes, I keep hearing that said." Lennier observed that Delenn appeared more agitated than normal. He decided that it would be best if he didn't comment on her mood changes. "The Garden is a--" "Very large place. Yes, Lennier, I have been told this already today." Delenn looked tired. Exhausted. But she looked at Lennier as if she were expecting him to say something. She looked as if she was expecting bad news, and Lennier regretted that bad news was all he had to deliver. "A Minbari battle cruiser destroyed an Earth-Alliance shuttle," Lennier waited for her reaction before continuing. Delenn shoulders dropped as she sank into the small chair behind her. "Yes, I know," she sighed. Then slowly took in a breath before telling Lennier the rest of the story. "The Captain's mother and sister were both on that shuttle. In response to the shuttle's destruction," her voice spoke even more softly than when she first started, "they have launched their starfuries." Lennier approached Delenn, laying one hand on her small shoulder, "Delenn, I had no idea such a thing happened. How is the Captain reacting?" "Not well. He. . .he will not speak to me about it." Delenn leaned away from Lennier's touch. Once standing, she began pacing. Pacing slowly, but pacing. "Surely he does not blame you? How can he when you--" "Could not have prevented it?" Delenn halted, looking too tired to even stand. "Perhaps that is true, yet I fell that there must have been something I could have done. Because, Lennier, if there wasn't, my position here as Ambassador for Minbar is meaningless." "That cannot be true, Delenn. You are essential to the station's rangers, you passed Kosh's test, you *know* that this is where you must remain to accomplish what you must against the Shadows--" "But what use is my position as ambassador if I cannot deal with our government's politics? I'm not able to do my job, and although everything else is important, I am still required--" "Delenn, in this case, there is nothing you could have done. Our cruisers are ignoring all communications, including those from the Council." "I know, but that--" The door indicator chimed. Lennier moved towards it, "I will send whoever it is away." "No need. Come in," Lennier shouldn't have been surprised to see Commander Ivanova, since she was Babylon 5's diplomatic liaison, but he was. He was also surprised that Delenn actually appeared pleased to see her. "You worry more than you should about the wrong people," Delenn commented as she led Ivanova to the table. "Lennier, please bring the tea?" Lennier bowed and brought the tray. "Has she been pacing, Lennier?" asked the Commander when he poured her tea. "Uh, yes. How did you know," Lennier asked, curious. "Because it's a shipboard epidemic that Dr. Franklin is still working on a cure for. And because," here the Commander eyed Delenn, "because I know everything. Do you get my meaning?" Lennier wondered if Commander Ivanova was referring to Delenn and Captain Sheridan's involvement with the rangers. "You told Mr. Garibaldi and the Captain that you were off duty," Delenn said. "So why aren't you resting? Or relaxing? Diplomatic visits aren't usually very fun for you, are they?" "I wanted to make sure you were all right," Ivanova sipped her tea. "Fine. As everyone keeps telling me, there isn't anything I can do at the moment." Ivanova studied Delenn across the table. Lennier suspected that she didn't believe Delenn's words, he certainly didn't. The communications panel chimed and Lennier stepped away to answer it. "Ambassador, you have a call." "Who is it?" "Hedronn," Lennier left off Satai Hedronn's title because of Commander Ivanova's presence. Ivanova stood up, "I should go, but I'll check on you later." Delenn nodded and waited until Ivanova left before moving to the communications panel. "Satai Hedronn," Delenn spoke calmly. "Delenn! We have been trying to reach you--" "Yes, I know. I was trying to diffuse a situation caused by our battle cruisers," Delenn's voice sounded hard, "but it is quite impossible dealing with rogue ships, is it not?" "We cannot be certain of that." "I believe we can. The cruisers refuse to recognize us in any way, and they recently destroyed an Earth-Alliance shuttle, unprovoked. Worsening the situation is the fact that Captain Sheridan's family was aboard." Hedronn looked shocked. "Of course, you will convey the Minbari government's regret--" "No, you will do it, or send someone here to apologize...personally. You will also explain why you threatened war if Earth Alliance attempted to protect the neutrality of Babylon 5's space. I find it very suspicious that the destroyed shuttle's communications were not responsive--even after it cleared the jumpgate. This entire situation appears to have been engineered to begin another war with Earth. Is that what the Grey Council truly wants?" "Delenn--" "Captain Sheridan has launched Babylon 5's fighters, since it is now obvious that non-Centauri ships are in danger from our cruisers. If our cruisers attack any other ships again, they will retaliate. Tell me, who's secret orders are our cruisers following? Are they Neroon's? Or another's?" "Delenn, I do not know. And unless you prevent Captain Sheridan from firing at any Minbari ships, then war will be declared." "Then it is true, the Warrior Caste has taken control," Delenn stated quietly. "Delenn," Hedronn warned, "You will tell Captain Sheridan not to fire at our ships, or the next war will be on your shoulders--" "I won't." "Delenn! What would you do if you are recalled?" Hedronn let the question hang between Delenn, himself, and the viewscreen--an ineffectual threat." "You won't have to recall me if I resign. And I wouldn't expect anything to change--except my title." "Defiance does not become you." Delenn's eyes wandered to Lennier, who hoped that she did not further anger the Council. Briefly, she smiled. Then she turned back to the viewscreen. "And bullying does not become those who still claim to be honorable. I hereby deliver my resignation, effective immediately. Good Day, Satai Hedronn," Delenn clasped her hands and bowed before ending the transmission. Lennier's extreme surprise must have shown on his face, even though he tried to contain it. "You have a question, Lennier?" Lennier shook his head, "No, I do not. Except, I was wondering what may happen should another Earth-Alliance vessel be destroyed." Delenn's eyes seemed to unfocus a moment, then centered on Lennier once again. "A terrible future, and a terrible end. The oldest of the ancients are watching, and waiting for such an occurance. I fear it will be the end of the Centauri's petty quest for glory, and the end of the Narn's hope for freedom. It will be the end of everything we know and have yet to know, Lennier. We must prevent it." Lennier wanted to ask her how they could halt the events that seemed to be spiraling downwards in distinguishing what was right and what was wrong, when they couldn't even communicate with the three Minbari battle cruisers. But Delenn had already retreated to her inner chamber, and Lennier thought it might be best to not disturb her. + + + An hour later Michael Garibaldi and John Sheridan were drinking. Actually, Sheridan worked his way through a bottle of earth-imported whiskey while Garibaldi worked his way through a kettle of ginseng tea. "I should be in C & C," Sheridan stated. Quietly, matter of fact, in no way suggesting that just over an hour ago he lost it when the Monet was destroyed. "Susan is perfectly capable of handling things. That was the deal, remember? You would try to get some rest and she would watch events up there?" "And you get to babysit?" Sheridan asked. "Don't you have duties, Chief?" "Yeah, keeping you company. Until you pass out anyway," Garibaldi wasn't really happy that the Captain was hitting the bottle as hard as he was. Probably because he understood the need all too well. Sheridan poured himself another drink. "I think Susan is upset with me," he said. Garibaldi chose not to answer; he didn't really think it was a question. As long as he had known Susan, she was always fiercely loyal to her belief's and protective of those she considered her friends. Garibaldi was pretty sure Susan and Delenn spoke socially on a regular basis. "Aw, Hell!" Sheridan pushed the alcohol away and stood up. "This isn't working, Michael. Lizzy is still gone, and Mom...." Sheridan's eyes teared up and he blinked them away. Garibaldi felt that he should say something, but he didn't know what. He didn't have Susan's knack for knowing how to say what was needed in every sensitive situation. Not that she always did, she just knew what was needed. "God! Dammit! Why!" The anger and fury appeared so suddenly that Garibaldi barely had time to move away from the counter before Sheridan swung his arm across it, shoving everything on it onto the floor. The sound of breaking dishes and glass rang in the air simultaneously with the sound of Sheridan's sobbing. "Why! I just want to know why, Michael. First Anna, and now this...." Garibaldi pressed his lips together, racking his over-tired brain cells for that sensitive answer needed for this situation. "I'm sorry, I don't have any answers for you. I wish I did. I wish I knew why things happen the way they do. If I knew I might even know why we were all here in the middle of space, surrounded by stars that seem bright, but are only reachable through a sea of coldness and emptiness...." Garibaldi stopped babbling, but Sheridan didn't seem to notice. The Captain stumbled, barely catching onto the bar to hold him up. "C'mon, let's go," Garibaldi hooked Sheridan's right arm over his shoulders and led him towards his bed. "Damn!" Sheridan muttered, rubbing his eyes as he tried to orient himself. "Double Damn! How could I be so stupid?" "What's that?" Garibaldi thought that Sheridan seemed a little more his old self, even though he still leaned heavily on Garibaldi for support. "It's just...Delenn. I shouldn't have said what I said to her. . . ." "You were a little hard on her," Garibaldi agreed, heaving Sheridan onto the top of the bed. Looking around, Garibaldi found a loose blanket and draped it over him. Sheridan was quickly drifting off into unconsciousness. "That's why Susan's mad...." "Probably," Garibaldi supplied, debating about whether or not he should pull Sheridan's boots off before leaving. He did. "Remind me," Sheridan mumbled, "remind me to apologize to her...." Garibaldi nodded affirmation. "Lights dim," he said to the room's computer before leaving. ----------------------------------------------------------------- To Be Continued. . . . . From fmlecou@mailbox.syr.eduSun Nov 26 00:26:03 1995 Date: Sun, 26 Nov 1995 01:34:47 -0500 (EST) From: "Felicia M. Le Cou" Reply to: b5-creative@blob.best.net To: barrie , katelight , watkins julia k , grems@cunyvm.cuny.edu Cc: b5-creative@blob.best.net Subject: Crisis! Part 7 Crisis! By Felicia Le Cou fmlecou@mailbox.syr.edu Part 7 "Lieutenant Janz, is that communications diagnostic done running yet?" "No Commander," replied the blond technician who relieved Corwin of his post. "Levels one and two discovered nothing, I'm running the third." "Good job," Ivanova made an extra attempt at being nice. Lt. Corwin was so rattled after the Monet's destruction she had to sent him to Medlab to talk to Doctor Franklin. No one even noticed that he was a nervous wreck until she returned from Delenn's quarters. Everyone else had other things on their minds. "What's going on out there, Susan?" Garibaldi asked, coming up from behind. Ivanova glared at him for using her first name while she was on duty *and* in C & C. But she supposed that posturing wasn't as important as informing the security chief of the latest glitch in their lives. "I was on-line with General Hague when our communication was cut off. So far, we have been unable to reestablish contact. He was calling from the Io transfer point and seemed as if he was about to tell me some important information." "Could the Minbari battle cruisers be blocking our communications?" "But why? What could they possible hope to accomplish?" "Commander," Lt. Janz called out, and Ivanova's reaction opened the door to self-knowledge: It wasn't Corwin that annoyed her, it was anyone at Corwin's post. "Yes?" "I've had several messages in the past two minutes: ambassadors complaining that they can't reach their home worlds, residents complaining about interstellar communications being cut off. ISN's news feed has been scrambled as well. All information feeds to Babylon 5 have ceased." Garibaldi raised his eyebrows, "I'd say someone was interfering, who else could it be but the Minbari?" "I don't know. . . ." + + + Lennier tired of speaking. Over the last hour he dealt with three calls from Ambassador Mollari, each successive call slightly more frantic than before. Apparently, the Centauri government did not want to start conflict with Minbar, but they couldn't seem to communicate this to their heavy cruisers. So of course any actions taken on the part of the three Centauri war cruisers would not be held again Centauri Prime, yes? But Lennier could not agree to that. Not after overhearing Satai Hedronn's instructions to Ambassador Delenn, especially not then. Lennier suggested that he keep trying to reach the Centauri cruisers. But Mollari wasn't the only one Lennier had to deal with. He spoke with the Drazi and Pak'Ma'Ra ambassadors as well. Why, they wanted to know, why did not the Minbari cruisers defend their vessels in any way when they initially sent ships to help pursue the Centauri offenders? Lennier could not answer them. Again, he suggested that they contact him later, when he had more information. Lennier feared that soon several ambassadors from the League of Non-Aligned worlds would ask him questions that he could not answer. As he debated what to say to the next caller, Ambassador Delenn emerged from her inner chambers. She was dressed in ceremonial white, something Lennier hadn't seen her where since she emerged from her chrysalis. She appeared calmer, more at peace, than she had earlier. Perhaps she was able to meditate. "Delenn," Lennier waited for instruction. "Lennier, I want you to ensure that my flyer will be ready for launch within twenty standard minutes." "Your flyer?" Lennier asked again. "Yes, I will need it in order to reach the Krigor. Also, I will need a data-crystal of the message from the Grey Council, ordering our battle cruisers to return to Minbar." "Of course," Lennier produced the data-crystal from near the communications panel and handed it to Delenn. When Delenn accepted the crystal, she grabbed hold of Lennier's hand. Startled by this uncharacteristic action, he looked up. Delenn seemed to be regarding him as if she was seeing him only for the first time. "Lennier, you have been a good aid. I expect that you will do well in the future." Delenn took the crystal from Lennier's fingertips and exited the room. He then made the necessary arrangements with the docking bay where Delenn's flyer was maintained. And only then, after Lennier finished the tasks he was instructed, did he reflect on the odd nature of Delenn's final words to him. It seemed as if she did not expect to speak to him again. + + + "Commander, Ambassador Delenn wishes clearance to launch from docking bay eight." "What?" Ivanova exchanged concerned looks with Garibaldi. "Put her on-line." "She is on-line," Lt. Janz said. "Delenn, what is going on?" Ivanova demanded. "I must speak in person to the Captain of the Krigor, one of our cruisers, please clear my shuttle." "You could get yourself killed," Ivanova pointed out. "And if this situation last much longer, someone will start firing at someone. And then we will be at a war much greater than the conflict between the Narn and Centauri. Do you wish a war to be convened as a result of what may be a simple miscommunication?" Ivanova pursed her lips. Delenn made sense, but Ivanova still didn't care for Delenn endangering herself. "Have you been in communication with your cruisers?" "No." "Then I can't authorize your launch. How do we know that they won't shoot you down before you even get there?" "That is unlikely," Delenn replied. "No, Delenn, it's too risky." The communication link went dead without an additional reply. "Delenn?" Ivanova called out. Garibaldi frowned, "What's she up to?" Ivanova frowned back, "Garibaldi, find something to do." "Commander, the Minbari flyer has launched, and is accelerating." "Why the hell does she want to get out so bad. What's the status on the bay doors?" "Closed--" "Open them, override priority." Lt. Janz looked panicked, "But--" "But what, Lieutenant. Do you know how bad it will be for us if we let the Minbari Ambassador splatter herself on the inside docking bay doors?" "Yes, Commander. Docking bays are opening." Garibaldi seated himself at Ivanova's station and started punching buttons. This distracted her from wondering whether or not Delenn would accomplish whatever she was trying to accomplish without getting shot down. Ivanova frowned pointedly at the chief of security. After all, he knew how touchy she got when people started messing with her equipment. "Relax, Commander. I'm checking on that diagnostic you started." "Oh, anything?" Garibaldi shook his head, "Nope, not a thing." To be continued..... From fmlecou@mailbox.syr.eduMon Nov 27 17:04:11 1995 Date: Mon, 27 Nov 1995 11:16:03 -0500 (EST) From: "Felicia M. Le Cou" Reply to: b5-creative@blob.best.net To: katelight , barrie , grems@cunyvm.cuny.edu, b5-creative@blob.best.net Subject: Crisis! Part 8 Crisis! By Felicia Le Cou fmlecou@mailbox.syr.edu Part 8 John Sheridan didn't feel so good when he began his journey back to the world of the conscious. Somewhere around the sharp pain behind his temples he was aware that something was terribly wrong. What was it? Did he want to remember? "Time," he gasped, to the room's computer. "The Time is...twenty one hundred hours," intoned the feminine voice. "Damn!" Sheridan was late. The Monet was scheduled in docking over-- But the Monet was cosmic dust scattered across space. Sheridan sagged back down against the headboard of his bed. He wasn't ready to accept the fact that he would never see Lizzy again, or Mom. Not that he and his mother kept in contact on a regular basis, but he always assumed that he could find her when he needed. Assumptions were wasteful things. Memory flooded back; his headache increased. Everything played back behind his eyes in cinematic detail: the Monet's destruction in slow motion, the scene on C & C with Delenn. Delenn, he said things to her that he didn't mean. He squinted from the light's intensity, even though they were already set to dim. Once seated at the communications panel, he signalled the Minbari Ambassador's quarters. He needed to set things right with her. Lennier answered. Sheridan wasn't surprised. He imagined that Delenn wouldn't even want to speak to him after the way he treated her. He probably wouldn't speak to himself, either. "Mr. Lennier, uh, I was hoping to speak with Ambassador Delenn?" "I'm sorry, Captain Sheridan, but she isn't available . . ." Sheridan sighed, "Look, I realize that she probably doesn't want to see me right now--just too much has been going on, and well, well--" "Captain, you don't have to explain. I am sorry for your loss . . .but Delenn isn't here. She took a message to the Krigor, one of our battle cruisers, and--" "She what?" Sheridan found himself gaining awareness of the situation real fast now. "Are you saying that she left the station?" Lennier nodded through the monitor. He didn't look happy. "Yes, you are correct." Sheridan knew that there was a reason he shouldn't fall apart-- even if he was perfectly entitled. If he didn't stay aware, then things started happening that he just didn't like. + + + "Well, so far the Centauri fighters haven't targeted her. Zeta Squadron's presence must be preventing that," Ivanova commented to Garibaldi, who never did find anything to do. "And the Minbari haven't fired at her, so far so good," Garibaldi said. Ivanova nodded, watching the viewport. "Still, I find this entire chain of events nerve wracking." Ivanova didn't think she would feel calmed until Delenn got safely there, and then back again. After Babylon 5's previous dealings with the Minbari warrior caste, Ivanova simply didn't trust them. Ivanova's hand-link beeped, "Ivanova here." "I just got off-line with Mr. Lennier, Commander," Sheridan's voice came through, loud and cranky. "What the Hell is going on up there?" "The situation is stable," Ivanova replied. She didn't have to be nearby to pick up that the Captain was aggravated about Delenn leaving the station. "Ambassador Delenn is enroute to the Krigor to discuss the current situation." "Why the Hell did you let her leave the station?" Ivanova noticed that Lt. Janz was watching her curiously; she retreated near the access lift's entrance. "Sir, with all due respect, this isn't a conversation that should be taking place over links. I do have the situation under control--" Ivanova thought it better not to mention the fact that all communications outside Babylon 5 were cut off. "--Sir. Please just try to get some rest...." "Negative on that, I'll be right up. Sheridan out." Ivanova's fatigue started to settle into her bones at this point. "Commander," Lt. Janz called for Ivanova's attention. This woman was even more irritating than Corwin. At least Corwin didn't have the kind of high-pitched voice that grated in one's ear like fingernails across a chalk-board. "The Ambassador's flyer has safely reached the cruiser." "Well, that's good news, at least," Garibaldi approached Ivanova, "isn't it?" "Yes, of course. I'm just getting too tired to react." The lift's doors opened and Captain Sheridan, squinting, stepped out. He must have already been on the way up to get there so fast. Good God, Ivanova thought, he looks a mess. "Captain, if you don't mind my saying so, you look like Hell," Garibaldi freely expressed the thought. Sheridan ignored the comment. "Any change?" "Captain," Lt. Janz just never shut up. "Outside communications to Babylon 5 are open again." Sheridan frowned at Ivanova, "We were cut off? You didn't inform me? Why?" "You were occupied," Ivanova tactfully replied. "Ah, she means you were passed out," Garibaldi added. Ivanova looked at Garibaldi, letting him know that she didn't need his help. "Ambassador Delenn's flyer has left the Krigor, it is enroute back to Babylon 5," Lt. Janz said. "Inform the docking bay," Ivanova's relief spilled over into her voice. "Well, at least they didn't do anything--" Sheridan walked forward, peering intently out the viewport. "We don't know diddly, hail that Minbari flyer." "Yes, sir." Delenn's face filled the communications monitor. "Ambassador Delenn," Sheridan greeted her. "What did you think you were trying to do? Do you realize what would have happened if, if something were to have happened to you?" "No repercussions against Earth Alliance would have been taken, Captain. Prior to my leaving, I resigned my ambassadorial post. . . we can discuss this further when I get back, where we will not be monitored. . . ." "We have something coming through the jumpgate," Lt. Janz sounded tense. Ivanova was pleased that she just informed them of that information instead of first calling for Ivanova's attention, which seemed to waste time for such brief messages. "Three starfuries, and an Earth-alliance shuttle." "Well, hail them," Ivanova ordered. "I can't get through." "Delenn, I thought the Minbari communications block was down!" Ivanova was getting nervous once again. "Well, yes, I was given assurances that it was. . .and--" Delenn's communication flickered from the screen. "What is going on out there?" demanded Sheridan again. "The Minbari fighters are relocating--they seem to be targeting the starfuries," Garibaldi stated the obvious. He was watching Ivanova's tactical display; something that she should be doing herself but was willing to let Garibaldi's deviance into her jurisdiction slide due to fatigue. "Order Zeta Squadron to escort the starfuries and the shuttle to safety," Sheridan instructed Lt. Janz. "And to make sure Delenn makes it back to the station safely." "Captain, that will only aggravate the situation." Lt. Janz looked in confusion from Captain Sheridan to Commander Ivanova. Under normal circumstances she would execute Sheridan's orders immediately. But she was as aware as everyone else the personal loss that Sheridan experienced earlier that day, and no doubt she heard about Ivanova contradicting his orders as well. "Sir? Commander?" Lt. Janz waited. "Oh Hell," Garibaldi commented. "The Centauri fighters are targeting the Minbari. They can't lock on, but--" Garibaldi stopped speaking and pointed to the viewport. He didn't have to point out the fact that things were definitely happening. The Centauri fighters opened fire first, but none of them made contact. The Minbari fighters had no such problems, they started firing on the Centauri, and started systematically destroying their fighters. Meanwhile, the starfuries and shuttle seemed to maneuver miraculously through a maze of exploding space and debris. Whatever threat the Minbari first thought they were, they abandoned in favor of pursuing the Centauri offenders. Zeta Squadron branched away from the station, creating a buffer zone around them. Luckily, the Centauri seemed to be ignoring them and the Minbari seemed only concerned with destroying any Centauri fighter that fired. Ivanova couldn't spot Delenn's flyer in the cross-fire. Sheridan caught her attention and she knew that he was thinking the same thing. She moved to where Garibaldi was at her tactical display and quietly asked, "Where's Delenn's flyer?" "I don't know, I'm scanning for it now. There was an explosion near it, and the flyer dropped from the sensors. But I don't think it was hit...Captain! The Centauri war cruisers are charging for fire!" "Close blast doors!" Sheridan barked. Lt. Janz nodded. "Garibaldi, keep scanning for that flyer!" Garibaldi didn't have to be told. Ivanova spoke quietly into her link, "Ivanova to Medlab." "Dr. Franklin here." "Doctor, we have potential casualties out there. Better make sure the hospital ships are ready to go." "Already done, Commander." "Something is coming through the jumpgate," Lt. Janz called out to whoever was listening. "Correction, several somethings are coming through...three Vorlon war ships. . ." Janz's voice trailed off in uncertainty. Ivanova checked the tactical over Garibaldi's shoulder. Janz was right. Although, why Ivanova could doubt anyone's skill in identifying a Vorlon ship, she didn't know. Vorlon's had very distinctive ships that traveled through jump-points backwards and seemed to utilize some kind of solar sail technology--so it seemed anyway. Behind her, the access lift's doors opened. Ivanova whirled around. "Ambassador Kosh!" Ivanova was stunned to see the Vorlon ambassador in C & C. Ambassador Kosh seemed to survey the general chaos and confusion on C & C, and the situation outside, with a broad sweep of his head--or his encounter suite's head. Ivanova heard the musical whirl and clicks that the Vorlon seemed to speak in. The translator relayed only one word. "Enough." At this Captain Sheridan seemed stunned. He looked towards Ambassador Kosh, only noticing his presence at that moment. "Sir the Vorlon ships are charging their weapons." "Is Zeta Squadron out of there?" Sheridan asked quickly. "Yes, sir. The shuttle has safely docked." Sheridan squinted at Lt. Janz's tactical screen, rubbing his left temple with one hand. The fighting between the Minbari and Centauri was not ceasing, despite the Vorlons' presence. "Where's Ambassador Delenn's ship?" Sheridan asked. "I'm scanning for it," Garibaldi supplied. "It's not showing." "Damn," Ivanova heard Sheridan mutter under his breath. "Ambassador Kosh--" he started but Kosh cut him off. "Enough," the Vorlon ambassador said again, and outside the station the Vorlon ships unleashed enough energy to destroy one Minbari battle cruiser and two Centauri ships. The remaining battleships immediately opened aft-jumppoints and retreated from Babylon 5's space. At the same time, the Vorlon ships returned through the jumpgate. "Brace for impact!" Ivanova yelled before grabbing onto C & C's railing just before the shock waves shook the station. Ambassador Kosh returned to the access lift before people really had a chance to identify what just took place. "Well, I'd say that was that," Ivanova commented ruefully. "Dr. Franklin, launch hospital ships," she spoke into her link. "Uhm...," Ivanova looked up when she sensed Sheridan watching her. "...Ambassador Delenn is missing." There was an extra beat of silence on the other side of the link connection, then, "We'll find everyone still out there, Commander. Franklin out." Silence blanketed C & C, smothering everyone in the room. Choking off their air. Ivanova wanted to scream for no particular reason. Except the day was totally skewed. The general state of Hell retreated to Not Hell, but that didn't mean there wasn't a lot of mess for them all to deal with. I shouldn't have let Delenn leave the station, Ivanova thought. Damn! "Security to C & C," "On-line," Ivanova was surprised to hear her own voice--she sounded as if there was nothing wrong. "Welch here, Commander. General Hague just arrived in docking bay twelve." "What?" Surprises were never-ending today. "He would like to see Ambassador Delenn, the Captain, and you in the meeting room." "Uh, yes. Tell him we'll be there in ten minutes. Ivanova out." Now, just take a deep breath, Ivanova told herself. The day is almost over. "Captain Sheridan?" "I heard. Mr. Garibaldi, have you found her yet?" Garibaldi shook his head, "No, but there's so much electromagnetic interference it's hard to tell what's really going on out there. I've sent Zeta squadron the information on her last projectory, they'll find her if--" If Delenn survived. If her flyer is still one piece. These are the words Ivanova heard in her mind even though Garibaldi didn't speak them out loud. "Lt. Janz, please contact Mr. Lennier and ask him to join us in the meeting room," Ivanova instructed. Lt. Janz pushed damp hair out of her eyes and nodded. These kids get rattled too easily, Ivanova thought as she and Captain Sheridan exited C & C. But then again, she was a little upset by the day's events herself. From fmlecou@mailbox.syr.eduWed Nov 29 20:21:16 1995 Date: Wed, 29 Nov 1995 20:00:12 -0500 (EST) From: "Felicia M. Le Cou" Reply to: b5-creative@blob.best.net To: barrie , katelight , grems@cunyvm.cuny.edu Cc: b5-creative@blob.best.net Subject: Crisis! Part 9 Okay, here is Part 9!! More comments at the bottom. >From fmlecou@mailbox.syr.eduWed Nov 29 19:43:54 1995 Date: Wed, 29 Nov 1995 13:47:52 -0500 (EST) From: "Felicia M. Le Cou" To: Mrs J Wood Subject: Re: Crisis! Jo: Thanks for the really nice praise. Now, if I can incorporate all these elements (like keeping the reader's emotions involved) into my original fiction then I might have a career in writing, maybe. The good news for you is that I have finished Crisis! I just have to rewrite the end a little, and write up an epilogue. Just when you think you are finished with something then you find out that you aren't. My problem at the moment is that I have to finish some school work before playing any more in B5-land. I have to get my degree one of these days (I'm working on an MLS in Library Science). There are two weeks left of this sememster and I have about a month's worth of work to do. AACCKK!! Aw, Heck! Here's part 9...and you are the second person to read this. I have added a line or so...but if you have more comments about what should be in the epilogue, let me know. Crisis! By Felicia Le Cou fmlecou@mailbox.syr.edu Part 9, "I tried to tell her no, you know," Ivanova felt she had to explain why she let Delenn leave the station. "But she nearly rammed the docking bay's doors. Either we had to let her out or--" Sheridan nodded, "Susan, you don't have to explain. I just want her found. One thing I've learned in the last year is when Ambassador Delenn wants something done, you either help her or stay out of her way. Must be what I like about her. I just wish...." "I know. She knows. You'll have time, Captain. To talk, and grieve." Ivanova still could not believe that the Monet had been shot down under their noses. She understood that Delenn was trying to prevent further incident by going in person to the Krigor, and if General Hague's shuttle hadn't picked that particular time to come through the jumpgate, she might have made it back without incident. But she hoped that the next time Delenn decided to pull something like this she would come to her for help. And Ivanova was still reeling at the whole Vorlon involvement. The Vorlons never got involved in the affairs of others. Why did they start now? They turned the corner and a blurred female figure with short blond hair jumped into Sheridan's arms. "Johnny!" "Lizzy? Lizzy, I thought--" Sheridan tried to finish his sentence, but couldn't. "How?" he finally asked. "And...and Mom?" "Mom is fine. In fact she's the reason we're both here now. When she heard the ISN report come over the Monet's alert freqency she insisted that the Captain return to Io point immediately." "I can see that," Ivanova commented. "Mrs. Sheridan can be a formidable woman. But then, I understand she spent 20 years dealing with the Earth Senate. . . ." "I know, I know, that's why we had to get through in person. She knew that communications got cut off," Lizzy shifted her attention from Ivanova to Sheridan, "Mom's in the meeting room with General Hague." Sheridan still looked stunned; Ivanova felt huge relief. "Thank God!" Sheridan hugged his little sister tightly. "C'mon, we'd better not keep the General waiting." Lizzy drew back, looking stern. "You mean, we had better not keep Mother waiting--" Ivanova's link chose that moment to beep. Both Sheridan and his sister looked. Sheridan concerned; Lizzy curious. "Ivanova." "Commander, we've found Delenn's flyer." Dr. Franklin's informed her. Ivanova exchanged glances with Sheridan; Lizzy took his hand, sqeezing it tight. "And?" Ivanova asked tensely. "She's going to be all right. Mr. Garibaldi says the reason the scanners couldn't locate her was because there was too much electro-magnetic debris floating around out there...or something. Anyway, she'll be all right *if* she gets rest. She's not exactly cooperating." Typical, Ivanova thought. "I'll be right there." Ivanova looked up. Sheridan seemed torn between rushing immediately to Medlab and checking on his family. "You go talk with Hague. I know you're looking forward to seeing your mother. Is Lennier in there?" she directed this last question to Lizzy. "The Minbari Ambassador's aid? Yes. . ." "Then you might tell him the good news." Ivanova nodded and started down the corridor. "Wait," Sheridan called out, "Susan? Tell her I'll be there in a little while." Sheridan looked back at his sister, smiling. Tell her I might bring someone to meet her." "Of course," Ivanova replied. "I knew that already." + + + "Susan, I see Dr. Franklin informed you?" Garibaldi met Ivanova at the entrance to Medlab. Ivanova started to speak when she heard Delenn's voice resonate loudly from within. "I told you, Doctor, I am *fine*!" "No you are not fine, Ambassador--" "There's no need to call me that anymore, just let me leave." "You are not fine, Delenn--" Garibaldi and Ivanova exchanged amused looks. He also seemed to have heard about the Captain's family arriving safely, if his extra good mood was any indicator on how fast news travelled. "--you are suffering from fatigue, stress from your flyer's life support systems crashing. You ought to be in an oxygen tent. Not to mention your nutritional scan shows that you haven't been eating regularly--" "Oh no!" Garibaldi started laughing. "Do you think he'll try to put her on a diet?" "Food plan," Ivanova corrected. "I don't know, but it appears that we had better rescue her if we hope to have any good relations with the Minbari government from now on." Ivanova boldly walked into medlab with Garibaldi closely following, chuckling softly the entire way. "Susan, there you are," Delenn looked relieved, although quite bedraggled. Her white gown fully reflecting her ruffled state of mind. "Can you please explain to Doctor Franklin that I am fine, and to release me?" "Depends what's wrong with you," Ivanova said. "I wanted to tell you that the Captain's family wasn't on the Monet after all--" "I heard. That *is* good to know," Delenn tried to step around Dr. Franklin, but didn't quite succeed since he seemed so determined to keep her in Medlab. "Yeah," Garibaldi added. "I heard his mother ordered the Captain back to the Io transfer point when she overheard our message. All the passengers made it off; only the Captain and his assistant were killed. They had some kind of questionable business...anyway, Mrs. Sheridan says she wants to know who to file her luggage claim with. . . ." "The Minbari Government, I suppose. Have her see Lennier, now, I really must go--" Delenn pushed away Dr. Franklin's arm, who was running a medical scanner over her. "How much sleep have you been getting, anyway?" Franklin asked. "You know, Delenn," Garibaldi spoke casually, "Right before I left C & C I received a call for our old pal Neroon." "Neroon?" Delenn asked cautiously. "What did he want?" "Seems he really wants to talk to you. I bet if you cooperate with Franklin for a while, you can avoid him for a couple of days. He was acting a little belligerent." "What else is new?" Ivanova asked. "Apparently, he's worried about your resignation. I think he's worried that he would be sent as your replacement, and that would be some kind of affront to his great warrior pride." "He'd have to deal with it," Delenn said simply, but slightly smiled as she appreciated the humor of Garibaldi's news. "Yes, he would have deal with Ambassador Mollari's constant crankiness. I rather like that idea." Delenn settled back onto the Medlab bed and let Franklin finish his scan. "But I don't think we could deal with that," Ivanova said. "Neroon is more likely to start a war than to avert one, as you did." "At least until the Vorlons showed up," Garibaldi added. Delenn frowned, "I don't recall--" "That's because by then you were most likely unconscious due to your flyer's life-support failure," Franklin pointed out. "I see," Delenn replied mutely. "Of course, if you do not wish Neroon as Ambassador, your government should lodge a protest--" "But it would be so much easier for you to just not resign," Ivanova pointed out. "Right," said Garibaldi. "Blame it on the questionable communications we have been having. I'm sure everyone would be willing to accept that rather than upsetting the status quo." "I'm curious about one thing, though, Delenn," Ivanova frowned. "If the Minbari cruisers weren't causing the communications blackout, who was? After you started back to the station, someone cut off communications to incoming traffic at the jumpgate." Delenn frowned as well, "I do not know, Susan. I do not know." + + + Twenty minutes later Ivanova was back in C & C, and she was pacing. Garibaldi followed her. "Commander, let it go," he tried to tell her. "We'll figure it out in the morning." "Garibaldi, how can you sleep with this not explained? It's, it's, it's unconscionable for us not to attempt to find out. Lt. Janz. . ." "Yes, Commander," "Run the communications diagnostic." "But I just ran the communications diagnostic. There's nothing wrong with our communications," Lt. Janz whined. "You will run the communications diagnostic, and you will scan the space around B5 until you find something. Is that clear?" Garibaldi found himself suddenly glad that he didn't hang out with Ivanova in C & C too often. "Well? Garibaldi?" Garibaldi wasn't sure what Ivanova wanted him to say. "Susan, it's been a long day. I don't want to think about it; I'm going to go watch cartoons. You're welcome to join me if you want, as long as you don't talk." Garibaldi left C & C, leaving Ivanova stunned. Finally she looked around, checked on Lt. Janz who seemed to hope she wouldn't be noticed. Then shrugged her shoulders and followed. Maybe she could convince Garibaldi to watch Animaniacs instead of Duck Dodgers tonight. THE END --------------------- Actually, this isn't quite the end. I'm writing up an epilogue. E-mail me with all your unanswered questions, and I'll try to fit them in. Some that I know of are: 1) Just what did Delenn discover from the captain of the Krigor? 2) If the Minbari weren't blocking communications when General Hague's shuttle came through the jumpgate, *who* was? 3) What will happen when Sheridan actually apologizes? 4) What will Hague have to say about the whole affair? 5) What will happen when Delenn meets Sheridan's mother? All these things we want to know, and more. But, boys and girls, were this an actually B5 episode *none* of these things would be explained, becuase the hour would be up! Also, I might be convinced to part with my outtakes (for the sappy minded) all the scenes that I thought should be in this story but never made it. Of course, if they had, it would be an entirely *different* story, and probably not very well-constructed. Not that this is, but.... Hope you enjoyed it. And remember, it could have been worse. I could have had Garibaldi tell Ivanova in Medlab, "Well, Alls Well That Ends Well." :) Felicia. fmlecou@mailbox.syr.edu -----------------------