From bruckner@usia.govSat Dec 9 03:05:32 1995 Date: Thu, 7 Dec 95 4:27:07 -0500 From: "Bruckner, Sandra" Subject: Re: Old Friends Return -- Part 1& 2 Old Friends Return Jeffrey Sinclair, Ambassador to Minbar and secret leader of the Rangers, had just completed more paperwork, one of his most dreaded tasks while on Minbar. It never seemed to end. Earth Force was always sending some damn report or another that needed to be filled out and returned immediately, if not sooner. This one was particularly interesting though. It was one that involved a rather subjective judgment of what the Minbari felt about the Narn-Centauri conflict. Earth Force was probing, seeking to gather information on how other people were reacting to the situation the Narn now found themselves -- beaten and defeated, yet unwilling to surrender totally. They were content to wait for an opportunity for turning the tables on the Centauri. This had been the case years ago, when the Centauri became complacent. The Narn would be patient, grow in strength, garner their resources in an effort to again win their freedom. The Narn were confident that this would happen again, but it would take time -- and time was on their side. Sinclair had to be cautious in asking Minbari about this issue. Most would not share their true feelings about anything, let alone something as touchy and unpredictable as the Narn-Centauri war. They would rather listen as others talked about what was going on - - various unspeakable acts that were being leavened on the Narn. Jeff felt that most were secretly sympathetic to the Narn, but few would actually speak of it. They were afraid to voice their opinion, it just was not the way of the Minbari. They would only talk of such things when they got to know you a bit more -- a lot more. Delenn had only started to talk to Jeff of such feelings after two years on Babylon 5. They would talk in the garden about many subjects -- those that bothered Delenn or those concerns they both shared. Jeff thought back. He really missed those meetings in the garden, especially at times like this. Delenn and he shared a lot of common feelings -- desires for the future. Perhaps that's what had drawn them together in the first place. Delenn and the Minbari were an ancient people, compared to humans. They were willing to share some of their secrets, but only when absolutely necessary. One example is when Delenn shared information on the Vorlon. That information was critical in forging new relationships with that enigmatic race. Kosh always seemed to speak in mono-sylables. Many of his answers were ambiguous and while thought-provoking, they were also infuriating. Why couldn't he just say what he meant? Oh well, that's another subject. Jeff had gotten close to a couple of individuals on Minbar. It had not been easy, but he certainly enjoyed talking with Adam, a Endoran priest who had been permitted entry to Minbar to study the ancient scrolls from the most ancient Minbari. Adam had a lot in common with Jeff. Both were aliens on Minbar, both were not totally trusted by anyone, and both were seeking something that they could not explain. Adam had read some of the ancient scrolls as a very young man and become enchanted by them. He had made the scrolls his life's work and now had permission to study them first- hand. Jeff, like Adam, had been drawn to Minbar by some mysterious force. He couldn't explain his feelings, but he knew this was the place he had to be at this particular point in time. He had to learn all he could in order to reach out to others who were also drawn to this place. Jeff had also grown close to Benjor, a priest from one of the oldest religious orders on Minbar. It was really a very mutual friendship. Ben, as Jeff called him, was learning as much from Jeff as Jeff was learning from him. Jeff was teaching him chess, the quirks of human behavior and even a little humor. Ben was showing him some of Minbar's history, ancient teachings and was introducing him to some of the native food and drink. They often had dinner together and would then either play chess or discuss one subject or another. Jeff treasured this friendship greatly. Ben somehow understood why Jeff had come to Minbar. They had talked about Jeff's feelings, the official statements of his station while on the planet and many other things. It seemed they had many things in common. Jeff had studied with Jesuit priests as a young man and Ben was very interested in learning more about the religious practices of humans. Ben was also a friend of Delenn and Jeff suspected that Ben knew more about him than he let on. Jeff had never spoken of the Minbari soul he was supposed to possess -- mainly because he wasn't sure of the truth behind it -- but he also knew that the Minbari had not openly told even their own people of this. The reaction of those that did know of the Minbari souls living in humans was varied. Most did not believe it, perhaps because they did not want to believe it. How, why could this be true. Humans were such an inferior race! Jeff also had a completely secret part to his life on Minbar. He was Ranger One -- leader of a secret group of individuals who had gathered to fight the coming darkness. The Rangers had come from all over the galaxy -- Drazi, Endoran, human, Minbari, Narn and even a Centauri or two. All had come to pledge their allegience to fight an evil menace that no one fully understood. They just knew that the danger was great and only through cooperation and vigilence could the evil be conquered. Jeff thought back to the first meeting of the Rangers. It had been only two months ago, but it seemed like a much longer time. The meeting had taken place in a cave on the outskirts of the Minbari capital. Jeff had been invited to a meeting of a few Minbari who were seeking change. While the first meeting was one of extreme caution, each man feeling out the other on their views of what changes were needed, why they had to remain a secret organization, where their resources would come from, etc. Friendships had grown, information had been gathered and many, many resources had been volunteered -- from a variety of sources. It amazed Jeff how quickly things had come together. The Rangers now numbered several hundred. He had met most of them, seen the same haunted look in their eyes -- the same look he had seen in his own eyes. For Jeff, the eyes were truly the window to the soul. There was something very recognizeable to him, a quality they shared. It wasn't anything that could be quantified, qualified or pinpointed, but it was very distinguishable to him. Jeff has looked closely for people he could trust within this group. He had found a couple of individuals who he could confide. One individual was a Drazi -- Dragor; the other a human named Amos. These two individuals became his aides and confidants. They planned for future, deciding to divide up their forces, train in a number of areas, not only to confuse the enemy, but to limit their vulnerability. Also included within this inner circle was Shindi, a Narn who had made protection of Ambassador Sinclair his own personal mission in life. Shindi felt that the entire movement rested on Sinclair's shoulders and if something would happen to him, the entire Ranger effort would be foiled. That made his mission all the more difficult. Sinclair, at least for the moment, tolerated this. He felt he was not indispensible, but he knew this endeavor had to succeed. If that meant that he had to lead this group into battle against the Shadows, he wanted them to be adequately trained and informed about this new enemy. This could only happen if they gathered information from around the galaxy, from any source available -- and some that were not. Sinclair's Rangers were his eyes and ears around the galaxy. Many were using Babylon 5 as a base of operations; a place where information could be shared with colleagues and sent on to Sinclair. There were many unrelated incidents of violence occurring and the collection of data was becoming critical. With each new attack by the shadows, something could be learned. How was the attach conducted? What methods had been used to combat the attack? Had anything worked, even partially? What had failed completely? This was the sort of information that separately meant little; but compiled into a database, it would prevent the same attack being used twice and failing with needless loss of life. If they could find something that even partially worked, they would expand on that information and test the results during the next attack. With each instance, they would grow stronger. Today, Sinclair was meeting some new Rangers as they brought in new equipment. Fighters had been donated by some new members of the alliance. Sinclair was excited by the prospects -- fighters of their own! Fantastic. He couldn't wait to see what they had sent. These fighters would be instrumental in delivery of new information around the galaxy and protecting the training camps on Zagoros and Ambrose. He hated the vulnerable nature of most of their camps, but there was little that he could do to protect them. Resources were very limited and funds that had been gathered were required to collect special bits of information or required parts for existing equipment. There was never enough to go around, and what they did have must be used frugally. Sinclair, Singhi and Amos met in the cave where the first meeting had taken place. It was about 10 miles outside of the city. They had gradually built it into a base of operations and now the fighters were housed here for launching, training, service. Jeff was still amazed that this had all come together. He now had mechanics, fuel reserves and even a simulator at his disposal. He had asked where it had all come from, but Singhi had told him he didn't want to know. That could only mean that it had been acquired in somewhat questionable methods. Oh well, Jeff thought, it was for a good cause. Jeff went into his office, a small cavern that had been equipped with a small desk, lamp and a few chairs. He met as often as he dared with the fighter pilots, questioning them about what they saw as they patrolled the area. He had a feeling that there was little time left before the fighters would have to go into battle. It was one of those feelings where the hair on the back of your head sort of stands up. It's something you can't explain, it's just a gut feeling. This morning, Jeff had left the city very early. He hadn't told anyone he was going out to his other office, not even Amos. Jeff wanted a little time to himself and he secretly wanted to take one of the new fighters out for a short patrol. He knew that he'd get nothing but grief if he had mentioned it, so he just went, pulled on a flight suit and kept his visor down as the squadron was briefed on today's mission. The squadron leader had just arrived in camp so he wasn't familiar with many of the men in the squad yet. That's why Jeff had chosen today to sneak into the flight. Also, the mission was a brief scan of the area in quadrant 12. There had been a report of some suspicious activity there, but nothing very well defined. The squadron was to go in, take some sensor readings and return. Jeff thought, that's simple enough. Not too complicated, and the chance of something going wrong was minimal -- he hoped. He had been assigned to Zeta 6 and was the wingman for the leader. It was a position he had had often during the Earth-Minbari War. This would feel like old times, Jeff thought. He had missed flying so much, he couldn't wait to get into the cockpit. He had read all the manuals on the new fighter and couldn't wait to see what it could do. There were only two in the flight today -- his fighter and the one the leader would fly. Jeff waved at the squadron leader as he entered his fighter. All was in readiness as the fighters prepared to launch. Jeff had limited communications, for obvious reasons. A short yes, no was adequate for most every answer. Thank heavens! "Requesting permission to launch, flight control." Jeff said. "Permission granted, Zeta 6," flight control responded. "Have a safe trip." As the fighters launched, Jeff felt the force of gravity pull at his entire body. It was a very familiar feeling, but one you never quite got used to. You were pushed back into your seat until you thought you would be become part of the seat itself. As the power leveled off however, the g-forces lessened and you gained more control over your ship. "Let's head for the coordinates mentioned." Zeta leader said. He didn't want to send out specific information over an open link. You never knew who was listening, but everyone had been thoroughly briefed on where they were going. All the fighters turned in unison and headed for quadrant 12. Jeff looked around at the ships in the squadron. It was truly a beautiful sight. There were only five ships, but they were all Star Furies -- highly maneuverable and lethal when piloted by an experienced individual. Jeff had always felt he was born to fly -- space had almost seemed like his second home. He had excelled during his Academy days in flight school, out maneuvering everyone and racking up the highest test scores ever in both tactical and strategic planning. He could turn a Star Fury on a dime and had taught even his instructor a few tricks. The Academy had wanted him to stay on to train other pilots, but the War had changed all that. He had been given a choice assignment, rose within the ranks and was squadron leader in less than six months after the War began. All that was ancient history now though. Here he was, like a kid with a new toy. He had to be very careful though. He hadn't flown for a while and though he would have loved to scoot off on his own, he had to cover his squadron leader's back. That was his primary concern now. "Zeta flight, I'm picking up some of those readings on my sensors. It looks like an atmospheric disturbance ahead. Zeta 6, come with me. Let's go see what's going on," Zeta leader said. The entire squadron followed him, staying close enough to monitor any unusual readings in the immediate area. "Yes, sir." Jeff said. "Let's see if the readings are actually tacheon emissions or something else." Zeta leader said. As the two fighters approached the coordinates of the last readings, Jeff noticed that his sensors were starting to fluctuate greatly. They would go from 10 to 100 and then back again. At first he thought there might be something wrong with his equipment, but he knew everything had been checked out before they left. As the fighters got closer, the readings again jumped -- this time to 500, then to 1000. In a distance, Jeff could see a pulsating light; a shimmering light. "Zeta Leader," Jeff said. "There's a light showing off to the right. Can't make out what it is though. It's not quite clear. Shall I investigate?" "No Zeta 6." Zeta leader said. "Stay with me. I want to see if these reading continue to go up and down and whether we can find out why the readings are even here." "OK Zeta Leader," Jeff said. Jeff really wanted to go investigate the light, but he stayed with his leader. For now, that was his orders and he would obey them. "Zeta 6," Zeta leader said. "Come around to bearing 150 and tell me what your sensor readings are." "Roger, Zeta leader," Jeff said. Jeff maneuvered his fighter to the new heading and checked his readings. Nothing! He went on a bit further, but still nothing. "There's nothing here, leader" Jeff said. "Moving off a little 160." "OK, Zeta 6," Zeta leader said. "Just stay in range of the rest of the squadron. Let me know when the readings occur again." "Will do, Zeta leader." Jeff said. As Jeff continued on his course, he looked around, trying to see if there was anything around that would explain the readings they had encountered earlier. Off to the right was that light again. When the light reached a certain brightness, Jeff noticed the sensor readings began to jump. Was there some relationship between the light and the tacheon readings? Perhaps, but he would have to get closer to see. "Zeta 6," Zeta leader called. "You had better get back here. We will be heading back to base soon and I don't want to loose anyone." "Roger Zeta Leader," Jeff said. God, he was frustrated. He wanted to investigate that light. Why not! He was, after all, Ranger One. But no, he couldn't break the rules he'd set. No one would respect him if he set himself above everyone else. Jeff jockeyed his fighter back into formation and Zeta wing checked their sensors again. Nothing out of the ordinary. They marked the log and broke off and headed for home. It certainly hadn't seemed like Jeff had been gone for several hours, but during the uneventful trip back to base, he hoped he would have an uneventful trip home. So far so good. "Zeta 6 requesting permission to land," Jeff said. "Permission granted, Zeta 6. Use bay 8." came the voice of flight control. "Roger, flight control." Jeff said. As Jeff set the fighter down in the bay, he checked his instruments one last time. Everything had worked perfectly. The new fighter had a number of improvements over the older model -- was even a little more comfortable. The earlier models were awkward, to say the least and Jeff thought back to the first time he'd flown a Star Fury. Wow, that was a long time ago! Jeff now had the fighter nestled snuggly in the bay and popped the cockpit to leave the fighter. As he rose to climb down from the fighter, he noticed someone standing below him on the flight deck. It was Singhi. Oh, oh. He was in trouble. How was he going to get out of this one! As he climbed down the fighter, Amos joined Singhi on the flight deck. He stood there, arms folded, with a glare in his eyes that Jeff recognized. He was ticked! "Ambassador, what do you think you are doing?" Amos said. "Don't you realize that if anything happens to you, we are all in a lot of trouble here?" "Amos, you worry too much. I just wanted to stretch my wings a bit. That's all. I've not flown in over a year and I really needed this. You're a pilot. You know what I mean, don't you?" Jeff said, trying to plead his case. "Ambassador, I know what you're talking about, but that that doesn't mean you can just take up a Star Fury when you get the notion. What would have happened if you had run into the Shadows while out on patrol?" Amos said. "I don't know, Amos. I guess we would have engaged them if we were attacked. But we had not intention of doing battle today. We were out to check some sensor readings, that's all." Jeff said. "Ambassador, you know that every time you sent out a fighter squadron on any patrol, there's a chance they will encounter the enemy. You have to be prepared for that eventuality every time you put on a flight suit." Amos said. "Yes, Amos. I guess you're right." Jeff said. "I'm just getting a little stir crazy here on Minbar, that's all." "Well did you scratch that itch then." Amos said. "Have you had enough for a little while anyway?" "Yes, for a little while. The new fighters are great though. I really wanted to see what they could do, but I knew you would kill me if anything happened up there. So I just did what I was told." Jeff said. "Well, I'm grateful for small miracles, Ambassador." Amos said. "As soon as your squadron left quadrant 12, there was an explosion detected. There's a smal planet just off to the right of that sector and it was attacked by the shadows. It was totally destroyed. "That must have been the lights I saw," Jeff said. "While I was checking some sensor readings, I saw a flashing, pulsating light over toward the planet. The sensors did fluctuate a bit, but nothing terribly out of the ordinary, but the light was there. I did record my findings, however. Should be worth looking at." "We should send someone in to look at the planet in the next day or two. Perhaps we can learn more about the shadows based on what we find." Jeff said. "OK Ambassador. We'll have a team go in to see what's left. The planet was really just a small settlement. Nothing of military importance; of no importance at all really. I wish I knew why the shadows had attacked them in the first place. There's no sense to it. "There's little sense to a lot of what's going on around here, Amos." Jeff said. "We'll just have to watch and wait for our chance to counter their attacks. When we are stronger, we'll see what options are open to us." Old Friends Return (Part 2) Jeffrey Sinclair stood by patiently as his aides lectured him about risking his life by going out with a patrol. He knew they were right, but he couldn't help how he felt. He couldn't ask men and women to do something he wasn't willing and able to do himself. He had enjoyed getting back into the pilot's seat of the StarFury, even if it was for just a short time. The new Fury was wonderful and he hoped he would be able to get more to increase their ability to not only patrol but protect the new training bases that were beginning to form around the quadrant. "Yes, Shindi, I know I shouldn't have gone," Jeff said, "but I'm back safe and sound now. Can't we get on with other business?" Jeff desperately wanted to change the subject, but he had a feeling Shindi wasn't going to let him off the hook so easy. It reminded him of another time a friend had called him on the carpet for risking his life. Garibaldi had given him something to think about -- what's worth living for; what's worth dying for. His experience here on Minbar had started to fill in some of those blanks. "Ambassador, I don't know if you are aware of how important you are to our efforts here. The people look up to you and your insights into fighting the Shadows is critical to any success we might expect. You have, whether you like it or not, become the center of our efforts here and elsewhere. You must continue your work and you can only do that if you stay alive!" Shindi said. "You make a good point, Shindi. I was selfish in wanting to take out the Fury, but I just couldn't help it. How am I to know what the capabilities of our new equipment is unless I see it for myself. I have to make some hard decisions and I need information that I can rely on to make good ones. There really was a purpose in my going out today. I also wanted to see what the sensor readings were that have continued to show up in reports from patrols. Some of our technical folks have been working on something and I really needed to get them some good readings to work with. That said, I promise to let you know next time when I feel the urge to go on patrol with Zeta squadron." Jeff said. There was a glint in his eye and a sort of half smile as he said it. He knew Shindi only wanted to protect him, but there was only so much mother-hen treatment he could take! "All right, Ambassador. Next time? I hope there isn't a next time!" Shindi said. "Well, I should change and get to work. There's a lot to be done before I go back to the city today. Do you have the fuel consumption figures I asked for, Amos?" Jeff said. "Yes, Ambassador. I have those figures. I also have word from Babylon 5." Amos said. "Let's go into my office and talk then." Jeff said. As they walked across the concourse, there was a comotion in a distance. Jeff couldn't make out the voices, but he figured if it were something important, he'd hear about it sooner or later. He and his aides continued toward his office. "JD, JD Sinclair, Is that you?" Jeff heard from above the crowd voices. Jeff turned around to see a very familiar face. Running toward him was Sam David Jameson, a man he had known very well during his Academy days. As Jameson approached, Shindi stepped in front of Jeff, putting his hand on a PPG. "Wow, JD. Is this anyway to greet an old pal," Jameson said. "Shindi, this man is OK. We've known each other for years. While he has been hazardous to my health occasionally, it's not been totally intentional." Jeff said with a grin. Jeff moved from behind Shindi to give Jameson a hearty handshake and hug. He started to think about the last time he'd run into Sam -- on Mars, just before he left for a post out on the Rim. Sam was heading in the opposite direction. He had left Earth Force and was starting his own freight company. Jeff hadn't heard from Sam in years, but their last night together was truly memorable. "God, Sam, it's good to see you." Jeff said. "What the hell are you doing here?" "Well, JD, that's a long story. I just delivered some new equipment to whatever this location is. I've learned not to ask too many questions. As long as I get paid, everything is kosher." Sam said. "How long are you here for, Sam?" Jeff said. "Can we get together later to talk about old times?" "I'll be staying over tonight, but I have to be on my way in the morning, Jeff" said Sam. "Well, why not meet me for dinner. We can talk then." Jeff said. "That sounds just about right, JD. I'd like to catch up on what you've been doing. By the way, what is this place?" Sam said. "Sam, this is probably one of those times when you don't want to know any of the specifics. Just say that this is a little installation on Minbar run by some independent contractors." Jeff said. "That sounds generic enough, Jeff." "Ambassodor, we really have to get moving." Amos said. "We have an appointment with some guests in about 10 minutes." "Ambassador? JD what have you gotten yourself into this time?" Sam said. "Sam, that's a long story, too. I can tell you part of it tonight at dinner. What it's all about, how this will all end, I haven't a clue. It's still coming together." Jeff said. "Where are you staying?" "I'm in brown sector, #11." Sam said. "I'll pick you up at around 7:30?" Jeff questioned. "Sounds good to me." Sam said. With that, Jeff turned and departed with Amos and Shindi. He could feel Sam's eyes digging into his back as he left. He could only imagine what he was thinking. He'd have a chance to explain some of it tonight. And he could see what Sam had been up to. He had a knack for finding very valuable items when they were the most necessary. Fighters, ammo, whatever. As Jeff approached his office, he noticed an unusually large number of Drazi hanging around. He had sort of expected this, since the people in his office were Drazi, and fairly important ones, at that. He had hoped to have had a chance to change, but he guessed his flight suit would just have to do. The Drazi First Council was here already and he didn't like to be kept waiting. "Ambassador Sinclair, it's good to see you again," a booming voice came across the office. There stood Alec, a huge Drazi warrior and First Council. Alec came over to Jeff and extended his hand in friendship. Jeff shook his hand and then bowed with one hand over his heart in the traditional greeting of the Drazi. "Hello, First Council." Jeff said. "It's very good to see you again. I trust you had no trouble finding this place. It's a little remote, but we like it that way, if you know what I mean." "I can appreciate your desire to keep this location a secret, Ambassador. You can't be sure who your friends are these days." Alec said. "Let's talk," Alec said. Copyright @ 1995 by Sandra Bruckner. All rights are retained by the author. Babylon 5 is a copyright of the PTN Consortium; no infringment of that copyright is intended. *><*><*><*><*><*><*><*><*><*><*><*><*><*><* Sandra G. Bruckner Telecommunications & Computer Support U.S. Information Agency (202) 619-5674 (202) 401-1914 - fax "To strive, to seek, to find, and not to yield." <*><*><*><*><*><*><*><*><*><*><*><*><*><*>* From bruckner@usia.govSun Dec 10 10:04:24 1995 Date: Sun, 10 Dec 95 8:13:30 -0500 From: "Bruckner, Sandra" Reply to: b5-creative@blob.best.net To: b5-creative@blob.best.net Subject: Old Friends Return (Part 3) Just finished another segment and thought I'd send it off before getting to another long section. Let me know what you think. Sandy Old Friends Return -- Part 3 Jeff Sinclair ushered Alec, the Drazi First Council, into his office. Alec was a big man, standing just a little taller than Sinclair at 6' 4" tall. Jeff had gotten used to the Drazi appearance -- sort of green skin with lots of bumps and points. If Jeff had learned anything during his time on Minbar, it was to look beyond physical appearance. The person inside the physical shell was more important. Alec was a member of an elite group of Drazi -- they had been educated around the galaxy in an effort to broaden their sphere of intelligence and thus their influence. Sinclair and Alec had first met at an official function in the Minbar capital city. Sinclair was representing Earth Force; Alec the Drazi home world. As they talked over a glass of brandy, yes Drazi love brandy, Jeff and Alec found they had a lot in common. It became the basis for their later association, with Sinclair exchanging his Ambassadorial title for Ranger One. "First Council, I will apologize for the lack of accommodations in my office. I hope you can understand our desire to keep things minimal. Not quite all the comforts of home, but this isn't home either." Jeff said. Alec smiled and said "Ambassador Sinclair, we are not here to discuss furniture nor appointments. We have a significant task ahead and we need each other. You have information, I have other resources that your Rangers can use. I think we can come to an agreement that will be mutually beneficial." "Thank you, First Council. Our needs here are many, as you can see. But many have come here with the desire to help first the coming darkness. Yes, I do have the ability to gather quite a bit of information. My Rangers are located in many strategic areas and we are setting up training centers in a variety of places. We feel it is important to spread our operation out so that it is less vulnerable. In the same vein though, having so many locations gets to be a logistical nightmare. I'm fortunate to have a very professional staff." "Yes, Ambassador. I've seen some of your operation here and on Zagros. Both are impressive and I congratulate you on your achievements so far." Alec said. "First Council, Thank you. We have a very long way to go before we can even think about confronting our enemy. As we gather information, our strength grows and our numbers increase daily. As you will see, we have people here from around the galaxy -- Narn, Drazi, Centauri. Everyone has put their own individual safety at risk by being here, but all feel this is something they must do." Jeff said. "Well Ambassador, I am here to offer whatever assistance we can. You have treated us fairly in the past and we have no reason to doubt that you will continue to do so. The fact that many Drazi have joined your numbers indicates that trust has been won here and I hope my people will honor you by giving you every loyalty possible." Alec said. "First Council, you are most generous. I must admit that winning the trust of a Drazi is not easy. When I first started gathering people here, I literally ran into Shindi -- the Drazi outside who is now one of my aides. He was a most arrogant man and didn't take our run-in lightly, Jeff said with smile. He could have cared if I was the man in the moon -- I had offended him by not watching where HE was going! Our first meeting was a painful one -- for both of us," Jeff said while rubbing his jaw. "Ambassador, I have heard about your encounter with Shindi. Word of this type travels fast -- especially when one of our own is beaten by a ......human! You must have some special fighting capabilities, Ambassador. Shindi is one of our best warriors." Alec said. "First Council, I must admit that my first meeting with Shindi started out badly, but it has turned into a friendship that I cherish. Most people would say that my fighting capabilities can be attributed to my hard head (Jeff said with a grin) .... but I hope that this encounter was all meant to be. Shindi has turned into a valuable member of my team and I often wonder what would have happened if I hadn't bumped into him that day. Chance meeting? Maybe." Jeff said. "Ambassador, I must admit that I was skeptical of you when we first met. That seems quite a long time ago now, but looking back, I must agree. Our meeting was by chance as well. I was not supposed to be at the social function where we first met. My ship had some mechanical failure and we could not depart as scheduled. Rather than wait for repairs, I decided to take Satai Neroon up on his offer of attending a party in honor of someone or something. I've forgotten the specifics. However, what I have never forgotten, was our first meeting. On the Drazi home world, I'm sort of a misfit. I have been educated; I like different things; view things a bit differently as well. With you, I could talk about Shakespeare, as well as the latest weaponry available to allies of Earth Force." Alec said. "Thank you, First Council. I hope that our friendship will continue to grow as we prepare for the larger tasks at hand. Can I show you around our installation here? It's not much really, but it serves us well for the missions we are undertaking." Jeff said with a measure of pride. "Yes, Ambassador. I would like to see what you have done with this cave. It is perfect for your operation." Alec said. Both men stood and walked to the door. Outside the office, Shindi and Amos were waiting for Sinclair. Two of Alec's aides were outside as well, waiting. "I'm going to show First Council around a bit. Would your aides like to come with us?" Jeff said. Jeff thought he might was well invite them, since they probably would come along anyway. "Yes Ambassador. We would like to accompany you." the first Drazi warrior said. "Very well, let's get started. There's a lot to see." Jeff said. As the little group left the office area, they wandered through many of the caverns within the mountain that they now called home. Sinclair had come across this location one day while climbing -- that had become one of his favorite pastimes and a great way to get some exercise as well. Minbari mountains were not a terrific challenge, but the beauty of the countryside compensated for whatever challenge the mountains lacked. The cave Jeff discovered some months ago was actually the opening to a series of caverns within the mountain. Some of the caverns were vast, with 200 feet to the cave ceiling overhead. What the Rangers had done is to take advantage of all the caverns and spread out their operation. Fuel was stored in the most distant cavern. The service area was near the launch sites and storage of parts and other supplies was central. As Jeff pointed out various areas of interest, primarily the communications center and sensor grid, he mentioned that all of this equipment had either been donated or purchased with donated funds. There was a large measure of pride in Jeff's voice as he showed off these places. He had fought long and hard to get most of these things, and keeping it a secret was not an easy task. They had put just about as much effort into shielding this operation as anything. They could not afford for this operation to be open knowledge. There was too much to be lost! As they came to the last of the cavern, Jeff pointed out the launch bays for the Star Furies. They had just been completed and they could now launch 4 Furies at once. This was a big improvement. Alec was truly impressed with the work of the Rangers in their cavern home. What impressed him more than the actual technology used was the way everyone seemed to work in unison. Teams worked on fueling the Furies; stacking incoming supplies, etc. It truly was a joy to watch. "I must tell you, Ambassador, this is the most efficient military installation I have ever visited. I must commend you and your staff for your work here." Alec said. "Thank you, First Council. Everyone has worked very hard to make this installation work. We have a lot to do yet, but we have a good beginning. With the cooperation of people like you and others, our fight against the coming darkness will be won. But it will be an uphill battle." Jeff said. "We hope we can count on the Drazi for help when we need it." "Ambassador Sinclair, you have my assurance that we will help whenever we are able." Alec said. With that, Sinclair and Alec clasped hands in a hearty handshake. This signaled the end of their meeting. Amos ushered Alec and his aides back to their shuttle and Shindi and Sinclair went back to Sinclair's office. "Ambassador, who was that guy you met in the cobra bay?" Shindi asked. "You mean Sam?" Jeff said. "Yes, I haven't seen him around before." Shindi said. "Let's wait for Amos to come back and I'll tell you both about Sam." Jeff said. "It's a long story, and I would prefer to tell it only once." Copyright @ 1995 by Sandra Bruckner. All rights are retained by the author. Babylon 5 is a copyright of the PTN Consortium; no infringment of that copyright is intended. *><*><*><*><*><*><*><*><*><*><*><*><*><*><* Sandra G. Bruckner Telecommunications & Computer Support U.S. Information Agency (202) 619-5674 (202) 401-1914 - fax "To strive, to seek, to find, and not to yield." <*><*><*><*><*><*><*><*><*><*><*><*><*><*>* From bruckner@usia.govMon Dec 11 17:10:22 1995 Date: Sun, 10 Dec 95 19:05:11 -0500 From: "Bruckner, Sandra" Reply to: b5-creative@blob.best.net To: b5-creative@blob.best.net Subject: Old Friends Return (Part 4) Here's another part to the story. Sandy Old Friends Return (Page 4) Jeffrey Sinclair, Ambassador to Minbar for Earth Force and secret head of the Rangers, now sat in his office nestled inside of a mountain outside the capital city of Minbar. He and his aide, Shindi -- a Narn that seemed to follow Sinclair everywhere -- were waiting for Amos -- another of Sinclair's aides to return. They had just concluded a very successful meeting with Alec, the Drazi First Council. Alec had pledged whatever resources they had to help Sinclair and his Rangers fight the Shadows. "Ambassador, when do you think we will be strong enough to make our first strike against the Shadows." Shindi said. "You are too anxious, Shindi." Sinclair said with a grin. "We need to have much more information about the Shadows -- what they are, if they are vulnerable in any way, who they are dealing with and through," Sinclair said. "Only then can we even think about going up against them in battle. We are gathering a lot of information though, and the more we know, the stronger we become." "Yes, Ambassador, but I am concerned by the increased number of attacks on our installations and other colonies." Shindi said. "I have read the reports, Shindi, and it saddens me. The needless loss of life for a cause most people don't even know about! This is why the Rangers are so important. The information we are gathering will eventually help prevent further attacks, or at least, give colonies some advance warning that attacks are coming. Right now, they are helpless." There is a knock at the door. "Come," Sinclair said. "Ambassador, the First Council is safely on his way back to the Drazi homeworld. The First Council wanted me to tell you that he enjoyed his tour of the installation and looks forward to seeting you again." Amos siad. "The Drazi are a strange people. They are fierce warriors, yet they possess a passion for life that is rare. Their cooperation will be very beneficial as we venture further out into the galaxy, spreading out training sites. I will ask Alec if we can place one on Drazi next month. That will give us a wider range of coverage for us here and open up a new area as well." Sinclair said. "Who do you want to begin that installation? We have a few people that we could send. There's Clark and Maxwell. Both have been with us for a while, seem to have good leadership capabilities and I believe we can trust them to do a good job for us." Amos said. "Let's send Maxwell. He's worked with the Drazi before, so that should be an advantage. But let's wait a bit. I want to see what Alec says and then we'll move on." Sinclair said. "OK, Ambassador. You said you would tell us about this man in the Cobra Bay -- Sam. Who is he?" Shindi said. "Sam David Jameson is a very old friend. We first met at the Academy -- we were roommates and people once said we were a matched set. We used to joke about how our initials are exact opposites -- JDS/SDJ. We were like brothers while at the Academy. It seemed like Sam spent most of his time getting into trouble and I would have to get him out of it. One day he got into a jam I couldn't get him out of, though, and he had to leave the service." Sinclair said, looking down at his shoes. You could tell this was a tough subject for him. He usually looked you straight in the eye when he spoke, but this time, he looked away from Shindi and Amos. "There was an accident on a training maneuver and Sam took full responsiblity for it. Cost him his commission and forced him out of Earth Force. He left, started his own freight company and it seems to be doing very well. I'll get more information from him later; we're having dinner." Sinclair said. "Ambassador, is that wise? I mean, this guy wanders in here out of no where, you haven't seen him in years and now you are going off to dinner with him?" Amos said. "Although I haven't seen Sam in years, I still trust him, Amos. However, I would like you to check him out though. See if we have anything on him in our databank." Sinclair said. "I've already started a check, Sir. I made an inquiry while you were showing the First Council around. I just wanted to know a little more about Mr. Jameson." Amos said. "I should have known that you would have already started checking on Sam. I don't know who is worse, you or Shindi. Shindi is ready to drill a hole in Sam just for rushing up to see me!" Jeff was grinning, widely, so Shindi knew that the Ambassador was again, teasing him about his over-protective nature. "Ambassador, you must not forget that your enemies are everywhere. They would like nothing more than to see you dead or discredited or both. You must be more careful. Which brings me back to your adventure this morning. Next time -- and I know there will be a next time -- tell me. I can't talk you out of going on a patrol now and again, but at least let me tell the squadron commander you are flying with him. Poor Haleron nearly had a heart attack when I told him you were his wing man today. I know that you feel you must go with the Rangers occasionally, but at least let me send along a little protection or let the proper people know." Amos pleaded. "Amos, I appreciate your concern for my safety, but how would telling Haleron I was with him today have made a difference? He probably wouldn't have sent me out to check out the flashing light, but someone else would have had to go. I was the best equipped person in the patrol to go and that's why he sent me. I don't want to narrow options for a commander down in any way, just because I feel the need to fly." Sinclair said. "I don't want to handcuff any of my people that way." "I understand, Ambassador, but....." Amos said. "OK, I'll let you know next time." Sinclair said. "Maybe it was a little selfish of me, but I didn't see any harm in it. I am still a pretty good pilot, you know." "Ambassador, you can fly the pants off all the people we have here but that's not the point. You are the only Commander we have here -- the only Ranger One. Managing this operation is a big responsibility and one that no one wants -- believe me." Amos said. "I just want you to be a little more careful, that's all." "Enough said then. Let's gather up the items that have come in from bases on Zagros and Ambrose. We'll need to brief the next squaron commander as he goes out toward the planet in Alpha sector. Not only have there been high tacheon emissions, but the Shadows attacked there a few days ago. We'll need a full spectrum analysis of the area -- the works." Sinclair said. "Yes, Ambassador. We also need to sit down with the information that's come in from Babylon 5. Marcus has sent in some interesting data for your review." Amos said. "How are things on Babylon 5? Is Marcus reporting regularly and does he seem to be getting the cooperation on the station that we had hoped for?" Sinclair said. "Yes, Ambassador. Marcus reports that Ambassador Delenn and Captain Sheridan are working with him now to not only gather information, but Captain Sheridan has made a number of important contacts for Marcus, that will make his job a little easier." Amos said. "I was sure that Sheridan would help. He's a solid man and has already proven to be an asset to our efforts." Sinclair said. Sinclair looked at the clock on his desk. He had barely enough time to get back to his apartment, clean up and get back here to meet Sam. "Well, I have really got to run. I need to check in at the office back in the city and then meet Sam for dinner. We have a lot of catching up to do." Sinclair said with the look of anticipation in his eyes. There hadn't been much time to socialize since he'd come to Minbar, but this was truly going to be a special occaison. "Shindi, do you think I can go to dinner with Sam alone tonight?" Sinclair said. "I know you won't like that, but we're not going far and I promise to be home early." Jeff was again pulling Shindi's leg, but really meant wanting a little privacy tonight. Shindi looked at Sinclair and was ready to protest, but stopped. He knew he was fighting a loosing battle on this. "OK Ambassadaor. But at least tell me where you are going tonight." "I'm taking Sam over to Delta's for dinner and then back here to talk. Sam has to leave early in the morning and I will have to be back at the office tomorrow in the city." Sinclair said. Sinclair rushed for his land shuttle. He had about an hour before he had to be back. That should be enough time to shower, shave and pick up a few things. Jeff hopped into the shuttle, started the vehicle and waved to Shindi and Amos. He zipped off back to the city, stopping by his "other" office before going to his apartment. There were a few messages, but nothing that couldn't wait until morning. Jeff got to his apartment, checked his mail -- ah, a note from Benjor. Ben was expecting him for dinner tomorrow. Jeff thought -- that will work nicely. He figured he'd be ready for a nice quiet evening after tonight. Sam did know how to party and Jeff figured that it was going to be a long evening. As he showered, shaved and put on a clean pair of slacks and sweater, he thought back to times at the Academy when he and Sam fought over the same girl -- many times; competed on everything from chess to use of the flight simulator. Sam hated to loose just as much as Jeff did. That's probably why their friendship had been so strong; they were very much alike. As Jeff finished getting ready, he slipped on a jacket, locked the front door and slipped into the shuttle. He was making very good time today. He'd even have a little time to check out some new data at his command post before going to dinner with Sam. As he drove back to the cavern, he took another route from the one he had used this morning when he left. He never knew if he was being followed and he didn't want to give anyone an opportunity to find his "other office". Fortunately, the cavern had a wonderful location. You could get there from a number of directions and that opened up a wide variety of routes to Jeff. As he got to the cavern, he noticed that Amos was huddled with some other people around a table in the back of the briefing room. "Amos, what's going on?" Sinclair said. "I'm just briefing our people on those readings you got this morning, Ambassador. We'll be sending out a patrol shortly and I want them to check out a few things for us." Amos said. "Very good. Be sure to look for that pulsating light near the planet. Haven't any idea of where it eminates from, but I'd love to know if it has anything to do with the readings." Sinclair said. "Carry on, then." Sinclair said as he turned and walked back toward his office. As he reached his office, he noticed some additional messages had arrived. Alec had arrived back at the Drazi homeworld and was sending a brief thank you; fuel consumption levels for today's flights were up and maintenance was running low on parts -- again. While he didn't have to handle these items, he wanted to be informed of everything going on in the installation. He never wanted to be caught with his pants down -- short of critical supplies or ignorant of a continuing problem. Jeff read through some reports when there was a knock at the door. "Come," Jeff said. "Jeff, old buddy. Or should I say Ambassador Sinclair?" Sam said. Sam was a big fellow -- not as tall as Jeff, but stocky. He'd changed a little since Jeff saw him last -- a little less of his trademark red hair, more weight around the middle, but it was the same old Sam. "Old buddy yourself. When I cease becoming Jeff to my friends, you have to start worrying. All this has then gone to my head." Jeff said with a broad grin. "Well, you've done very well for yourself. First you get that cushy job on Babylon 5; now you are Ambassador to Minbar. I'm impressed!" Sam said. "Who do you know that I don't." "Babylon 5 was a great station, Sam. I loved that place. You don't know what it's like having 250,000 people to look after. Ever been to Babylon 5?" Jeff asked. "Yes, I was there just a few weeks ago. Met with a Mr. Garibaldi. Seems he questioned my transport license and I had to prove I'm a reputable trader." Sam said. "Michael is very thorough, Sam. There's not too much that goes on that Michael doesn't know about. He knows that station like the back of his hand and has contacts all over the station and quadrant." Jeff said. "Yes, I saw first-hand how thorough Mr. Garibaldi was. He read me the riot act about being orderly while on the station, about making sure my crew followed orders, etc." Sam said. "We had a good time there, though, all things considered." "Ah Jeff, I brought someone along with me. Thought you would like to see them, so I didn't call to ask first." Sam said. "Well, where is this mysterious person, Sam. Why didn't you bring them in when you came?" Jeff said. "I wanted to talk to you first, Jeff, just to see if you were still the same Jeffrey David Sinclair I knew. I'd heard you had changed, but I wanted to see for myself." Sam said. "Changed, how so?" Jeff said. "Oh, it was an idle comment someone made a while back. You always were a stickler for regulations and proper behavior and all that. This person probably just didn't know that about you, that's all." Sam said. Jeff sensed that Sam really didn't want to get into this right now, but he made a mental note to ask Sam about this later. "Well, go get whoever this person is that you've brought for dinner, Sam" Jeff said. "OK, I'll be back in a minute." Sam said. He went out of the office and motioned for someone to join him. "Jeff, I believe you know Clair" Sam said. Jeff's jaw dropped to the floor. In front of him was a woman he had known some years ago --Clair D'Marco. She was a very beautiful woman -- about 100 lbs dripping wet, long auburn hair and the deepest green eyes Jeff had ever seen. They had been an item during his early Academy days, but Clair had left before graduation. Her family needed her and so she resigned the Academy and went back to Mars. Jeff tried reaching her for a while, but his calls were never returned so he quit trying. "Jeffrey, hello." Clair said. After a moment, Jeff was able to speak. "Hello, Clair. You are looking wonderful. Seems that life has been treating you well." Jeff said. Copyright @ 1995 by Sandra Bruckner. All rights are retained by the author. Babylon 5 is a copyright of the PTN Consortium; no infringment of that copyright is intended. From bruckner@usia.govTue Jan 9 20:20:27 1996 Date: Mon, 8 Jan 96 18:59:48 -0500 From: "Bruckner, Sandra" Reply to: b5-creative@blob.best.net To: b5-creative@blob.best.net Subject: Old Friends Return (part 5) Just finished the next installation on this story. Let me know what you think. Sandy Old Friends Return (part 5) Jeffrey Sinclair had just received a new shipment of fighters for his Rangers and was about to go to dinner with a friend he hadn't seen in years. Sam Jameson had been his best friend at the Academy and now was one of his suppliers. Sam had brought another old friend to dinner, Claire, a women Jeff had been close to before she had to leave the Academy to tend to family business back on Mars. Her choice to leave the Academy had been a hard one, but it was one that was very necessary. Jeff had tried to contact her many times, but each time his calls had not been returned. Jeff threw himself into his studies at the Academy and after a while, Jeff met Catherine Sakai and gradually forgot about Claire. He would often wonder what would have happened had she stayed at the Academy and graduated. Claire had a natural instinct for business and so Jeff knew she would succeed in whatever she really put her energy into. Unfortunately, her plans did not include him; she had made that clear by not returning his calls. Jeff stood staring at Claire for a moment. She really didn't look much different from the last time he had seen her 12 years ago. She was perhaps a little older, but just as beautiful. As Claire walked over to Jefff, she took his hands in hers and gave him a kiss on the cheek. Claire was about 6 inches shorter than Jeff, so he had to lean over for her kiss. Jeff was still having a little trouble coming up with words for this occasion and was feeling not a little bit awkward. "Claire, it's great to see you again. What are you doing here?" Jeff said. Jeff realized that they were still holding hands and slowly released Claire's hands and picked up some papers from his desk. "Well, I must say that you've changed! You let your hair grow and I kind of like it that way. I can't remember you without that very military short haircut from the Academy days. You had to have it cut once a week, if I remember correctly. You also look like you could use a good night's sleep. I thought you had a very coushy job here on Minbar." Claire said. Jeff's face turned a nice shade of pink and he cleared his throat. "Well, Claire, I see you haven't chanted at all. You still say exactly what's on your mind." "Jeff, we have a lot ot talke about. Why don't I wait to tell you over dinner. I understand that we're going to dinner together." Claire said. Jeff thought, that's the same old Claire. She never could just tell you what was on her mind, she had to make you draw it out of her. That's probably why things hadn't worked out for them. When her father died and she was called back to Mars to run the family business, she just left. She couldn't tell Jeff what was going on, she just left and that's probably what hurt more than anything. It was probably the best thing for both of them, but it certainly didn't feel like it at the time. "Had I known you were here and coming to dinner, I would have arranged something very different," Jeff said. "Different? How so?" Claire and Sam said. "Well, I was going to take Sam to dinner and if I remember the kind of place Sam liked best, it would have to serve a good steak dinner with substantial quantities of strong alcohol and a certain kind of entertainment," Jeff said looking at Sam with a very broad grin crossing his handsome features. "I think I will have to modify plans slightly since Claire is joining us." "Please, don't change your plans on my account. I wouldn't want to spoil your reunion," Claire said, looking a little guilty. "I'm afraid that Delta's is not the kind of place I'd take you to, Claire. However, there is another place where we'll be able to sit and talk and I think you'll enjoy it just as much." Jeff said. Jeff tapped his com link. "Amos, could you come in for a second?" Amos entered the office and stood waiting to see what Ambassador Sinclair had called to tell him. "I've changed my plans for dinner; we're going to Shaw's instead of the Delta Club. I know I told Shindi I would be going to Delta's, but with Claire joining us, I think Shaw's is a better choice." Jeff said with a grin. "Shall I call and reserve a table for you?" Amos said. "That would be wonderful. Thank you, Amos." Jeff said. "You'll have to tell me about Delta's later, Jeff. Sounds like it would have been fun." Sam said. "Ah, yes, Sam. I think you would have enjoyed it, but we can do that another time. I think you'll enjoy Shaw's too." Jeff said. "If you both are ready, we had better get going. I understand you have an early morning departure." "Yes, we should be off. We have a lot to catch up on," Sam said. Jeff led the way out of his office, but stopped at the door to let Claire exit first. Claire thought, yes, this is the old Jeffrey Sinclair she knew. Always the gentleman! God had she missed that. On Mars, everyone was equal, and while that wasn't a bad thing, it was a little boost to the ego when a bit of the old chivalry came through in the actions of men. Outside of his office, Jeff led them to his vehicle which was parked nearby. The three fit nicely in the small shuttle and Jeff headed toward town. Shaw's was a small restaurant he had discovered recently but now visited often, especially when he was coming back from the Ranger base. It was about halfway between the city and the base. Evening was falling quickly, but the moons of Minbar were lovely tonight. The air was crisp and clear. It was a wonderful night for a drive in the country with friends, Jeff thought. Before long, they pulled up in front of an old Minbari building. It had no distintive markings and looked like just another building rather than a restaurant. The only hint that it was something else was a few tables on a back terrace. "It doesn't look like much from the outside, but I can assure you that the food is wonderful." Jeff said. "How did you find this place," Claire said. "I would have gone right by it and never given it a second thought. There's no sign or anything. How do they expect to do any sort of business?" Claire said. "Claire, ever the business conscious." Jeff said. "They don't need formal advertising. Word of mouth is more than adequate to fill the place every evening. There are only a couple of decent restaurants on Minbar and you learn about them fast." Jeff stopped the shuttle and parked near the front door. There were a few other vechicles around, but not many. That was very good. If Shaw's wasn't very busy yet, they would have more time to talk about old times and enjoy the evening, Jeff thought. Jeff helped Claire out of the shuttle and the three of them went around to the front door. Jeff opened the door and was immediately greeted by a Centauri gentleman. "Good evening, Ambassador Sinclair. It's good to see you again." "Thank you, Franz." Jeff said. "I think you have reservations for us?" "Yes, someone from your office called a little while ago. I have a wonderful table set aside for you. You'll not be disturbed here and I've taken the liberty of ordering a bottle of wine for you. I hope that you won't mind." Franz said. "Not at all, Franz. Thank you very much." Jeff said. The three followed Franz back to a small corner of the restaurant. The table was lighted only with candles, but there were fresh flowers on it to add a very romantic air to the whole setting. "Thank you, Franz. This is perfect." Jeff said. Franz held the chair for Claire and Jeff and Sam sat on either side of her. Franz handed each of them a menu, told them that Marco would be their waiter this evening, bowed and departed. "Do you come here often, Jeff?" Claire said. "They certainly know you here!" "Claire, I said there weren't many good restaurants here on Minbar. When I don't just whip up something at home for myself, I wander out here for a little peace and quiet." Jeff said. "I've been on Minbar now for nearly a year and that's plenty of time to cover a lot of territory." "You mean you cook? I can just picture you in the kitchen, Jeff," Claire said. "Is this a recently acquired talent or something you just do to keep going?" "Claire, I've had to learn a lot of different things since leaving the Academy and I find that I actually enjoy cooking. Part of it was out of necessity, especially here on Minbar. Their taste in food is just not the same as mine and so when I get hungry for something, I gather up the ingredients and have a ball. I've found a great market not far from my place and I wind up having some of my people over for dinner. I haven't yet mastered the art of cooking for one. No one has died yet, so it must not be too bad!" Jeff said with a grin. "Well Jeff, this place is lovely. It sort of reminds me of Andre's. Remember that place?" Claire asked. "Yes, that's what I thought when I first came here." Jeff said and looked away from Claire for moment. They had spent a lot of time at Andre's when they were together during their Academy days. Memories, lots of memories came flooding back. Some were good; many were painful. "JD, so what are you really doing here on Minbar?" Sam said. "Officially, I'm the Ambassador to Minbar for Earth Force," Jeff said. "Unofficially, I'm gathering together a force that is needed to fight against a coming darkness that threatens the very existence of mankind. The Rangers are coming together from everywhere. We have Drazi, Centauri, Narn, humans, all kinds of individuals coming together to learn to fight together. We are building an army and people like you, Sam, are helping to equip us for the coming conflict." "Jeff, this is all very mysterious. What's it all about?" Claire said. "Well, I can't really tell you much more than I've already said. The Rangers must remain a secret organization, to be used when the time is right. We are gathering information, gaining strength and learning to fight against a common foe." Jeff said. "I heard you were in charge of Babylon 5 for a while. That was a great assignment." Claire said. "Yes, Babylon 5 was a great place and I'm grateful for the experience I gained there. You can't imagine what it's like having a quarter million people depending on you to make the right decision all the time. Besides that, there are all the same problems you have with a fairly large city -- labor strikes, equipment failures, civil disorders, all that. I was very lucky to have a great staff to help me out with it all." Jeff said. "Enough about me already. What about you Claire. What have you been up to in the 12 years since you left the Academy?" Jeff asked. "Well, I went back to Mars and took over my father's business. He had a large manufacturing concern there with thousands of employees. Mother was devistated by my father's death and I just picked up where father left off. The company's been through a few tough years, but now we are thriving." Claire said. "What do you manufacture?" Jeff asked. "We have a large range of items we create, Jeff," Claire said. "Claire, I asked what you made on Mars?" Jeff said, looking a little irritated. "Arms, Jeff. All sorts of weapons." Claire said a little sheepishly. "I know you don't approve, but someone has to outfit the forces and why not us. If we didn't do it, someone else certainly would." "And who do you sell arms to, Claire?" Jeff asked. "To whoever can come up with the price." Claire said coldly. "Even the Centauri?" Jeff asked. "Yes, anyone -- Centauri, Narn, Drazi, anyone!" Claire said. Jeff looked away from Claire; he couldn't believe what he was hearing. Had the woman he loved 12 years ago changed so much? Claire was an arms dealer and it didn't seem as though she cared who got hurt in the process. As long as a profit was made, she didn't care about anything else. "So what are you doing here, Claire. Did you bring me some weapons? Was the price right for you?" Jeff asked. Claire could see that Jeff was really upset by all this. She knew she couldn't change the subject, but she could put her role in a more positive light. "Yes, Sam and I brought you the best fighters made. And the price was indeed right. I think we both got a very good deal." Claire said. "Oh, Sam and you. Are you business partners?" Jeff asked. "Yes, JD, you could say that. Claire and I are married. I went to Mars after leaving the Academy. No one wanted to hire me because of the accident, so I went to see Claire and she gave me a job at the factory. We started seeing each other and one thing sort of led to another." Sam said. "We always did like the same things, Sam." Jeff said. "Congratulations." Jeff couldn't believe everything that had happened in the last few moments. His best friend was now married to his former girlfriend; both of them were arms merchants and sold to anyone. As he thought about that for a moment, he thought that maybe that wasn't a totally bad thing. It meant if he could come up with the price, he could get the kind of weapons he knew he would need. What he didn't like is the fact that Claire and Sam didn't seem to care who they sold arms to. The Centauri were leaving a wave of death and destruction in their path, caring little who was killed -- women, children -- no matter. The whole Narn/Centauri war bothered Jeff a lot and now he know that Claire and Sam were up to their necks in it. It almost made him sick to his stomach. "I can see in your eyes that you don't approve. Jeff, you've always been Mr. straight arrow. You'll never change." Claire said. "We tried playing by a different set of rules and I nearly lost everything. You can't imagine what it's like seeing your life's work go down the tubes, right before your eyes. I was watching the factory fall apart when the Centauri came along with their offers. I didn't want to do it, but I had to to survive." 'You may have survived, Claire, but thousands of beings are suffering because of your ... business." Jeff said. "I've read the reports and seen some of the casualties. This conflict is awful and getting worse all the time." "Let's not talk business now. Can't we just order some dinner?" Sam said. "I'm sorry, I just can't do that. You two stay here and eat. I really should get back to the office. I have a lot of work to do." Jeff said. "Jeff, please don't do this." Claire pleaded. Jeff was not listening. He was already walking toward the front door and headed toward his shuttle. "Jeff, come back here. I have to talk to you." Sam said. Sam took hold of Jeff's shoulder and spun him around. "I'm sorry Sam, but I've seen what your weapons have done to the Narn homeworld and it sickens me. I know that you are not playing favorites here, but I just can't forget what I've seen." Jeff said. "Well, I can't worry about that, Jeff. Claire means a lot to me and the factory means a lot to her. I just couldn't see it go under. It would have killed her and her family." Sam said. "So others are dying because of it." Jeff said. Sam swung at Jeff, but Jeff moved out of his range. "Sam, let's not get into a fight. There's nothing to be gained by it." Jeff said. "That's just like you. Always the right answer, always lily white. Well I'm sorry Jeff, life is not always that easy." Sam said as he turned and walked away. "Jeff," Claire said as she ran to catch up with him. They both walked out of the restaurant and into the parking area.. "You, too. Now you tell me about how hard it's been and I'll have the story from everyone involved." Jeff said sarcastically. "I won't tell you that, Jeff. I will tell you that it's been very hard these last 12 years. There's not a day that has gone by that I haven't thought about you. I wanted to call you, talk to you about having to go back to Mars, but I didn't want to make it harder on you. I knew that you were doing what you had been born to do and I couldn't interfere with that. I know that what I was doing isnt exactly right, but it's not wrong either. I married Sam because he is strong and he does care for me. He's been a big help with the business as well." Claire said. "Do you love him, Claire?" Jeff asked. He wasn't sure he wanted to know the answer, but he had to ask. "I guess I do, Jeff. It's not like what we had, but it's OK. We've made a life for ourselves and we're doing very well." "At what cost though, Claire? Have you seen what the Centauri are doing to the worlds they are conquering? They aren't just capturing cities and people, they are utterly destroying every world they visit. I can't tell you the devastation they are wreaking. It's terrible." Jeff said. "I can't think about that, Jeff" Claire said. "Yes, I guess you can't. Otherwise your conscience, if you still have one, would start to bother you." Jeff said. Suddenly, Sam came out of no where. He was really angry. He'd heard part of the conversation and felt he had to defend what he and Claire were doing. He swung at Jeff and hit him squarely in the chest. Jeff was caught off-guard by Sam's attack and the wind was completely knocked out of him. He went down on one knee and tried to force air back into his lungs. Sam stood back a bit and waited for Jeff to come back at him. Instead, Jeff stood up slowly and said, "Sam, don't do this." Sam again rushed Jeff. This time, however, Jeff caught Sam's fist and swung him around and pushed him back. Sam came back, swinging as hard as he could, but he wasn't hitting his target. Jeff really didn't want to fight Sam, but he would defend himself. Jeff pushed Sam away but Sam came back with greater force than before. He hit Jeff with a glancing blow, but it cut the flesh above his eye. Blood flowed down Jeff's face. Seeing the blood, Sam stopped as if he just realized what he was doing. "Jeff, I'm sorry. I don't want to hurt you. You were my best friend." Sam said. "Let me take you to the doctor to get that cut looked at." "Sam, I'm alright. It's just a cut; nothing to be worried about." Jeff said as he pulled a handkerchief out of his pocket to try to stop the flow of blood. "Let me get some ice for that." Sam said as he departed for the restaurant. "Jeff, are you all right?" Claire asked. "Yes, Claire. You know he loves you very much. Otherwise we wouldn't be fighting here. Sam always was hot-headed, especially when a woman was concerned. I somehow always seem to get caught in the middle though." Jeff said with a smile. "Let me look at that cut, Jeff. It's pretty deep. You really should have a doctor look at it." Claire said. She moved Jeff over to the light so that she could get a better look at his head. "I'll have someone back at the office have a look at it." Jeff said trying unsuccessfully to end the whole affair. "I'm sorry dinner hasn't gone the way I planned it. I'll leave my shuttle for you two and have someone pick me up." Jeff said. "That's just like you, Jeff. Here you stand, bleeding, yet you are worried about other people -- more than you are yourself." Claire said. "Guess that's just the way I am, Claire." Jeff said. Sam came running back with a napkin full of ice in his hand. He handed it over to Jeff who placed it on his cut. The bleeding had just about stopped, but the cut was a nasty one. "Sam, here's the keys to the shuttle. Leave it near my office and I'll pick it up in the morning. I'll have someone pick me up in a few minutes," Jeff said. "No thanks, Jeff. Just take Claire and me at our rooms. You probably should leave us here, but I guess you can't do that, right?" Sam said with a smile. "Yes, I guess I should leave you both here to fend for yourselves, but you are my friends and that means a lot to me," Jeff said. "Hop in and I'll drop you wherever you want to go." "I have a first-aid kit in my room, Jeff. I'll put something on that cut and then you can be on your way." Claire said. As the three of them entered into the shuttle, Jeff thought about the disaster this evening had become. It could have been worse, but not by much. As they got to brown sector, everyone got out of the vehicle and Sam opened the front door. "Jeff, sit down and I'll put something on that cut." Claire said. Claire left the room and returned with the first-aid kit. She took out a bottle of antiseptic and put some on a piece of gauze and applied it to Jeff's cut. "Ouch," Jeff said wincing at the sting. His head was starting to hurt a bit and he couldn't wait to get back to his office to get some aspirin. "Didn't feel a thing," Claire said. She continued to clean the cut, despite the discomfort it was causing Jeff. He squirmed a bit, but she wanted to make sure the cut was properly cleaned. She applied some cream to a pad and taped it into place. "There, you really should have someone look at that Jeff. It's pretty angry looking already." Claire said. "It will be fine." Jeff said. "I'm sorry, Jeff. You know me. I've never been one to just talk about a problem. You got me out of enough jams to know that I can't hold my temper." Sam said. "Yes, I do remember your temper", Jeff said with a smile. "It seems to me that I was always the one left to explain things or pay the bill for damages. I guess I should count my lucky stars that I didn't wind up like the last fight we were in." Jeff said with a grin. "I remember that one. Claire, now that was a fight. How many where there -- 10-12 guys? At least that many. Jeff and I stood them off for quite a while, but when reinforcements came, we got the stuffing kicked out of us. Jeff wound up with a couple of broken ribs and I had a concussion." Sam said. "We were on report for a week." "All over a silly girl, too, if I remember." Jeff said. "She wasn't silly, Jeff. Don't you remember, she was that gorgeous filly with the red hair. Her honor was at stake." Sam said. "Right!" Jeff said. Jeff remembered the event a little differently, but he didn't want to get into it with Sam. Sam was a soft-touch if there ever was one and this was just another example of his mouth getting them both into trouble. They had gone to a bar after class and met this red-head. They talked a bit and a group of Drazi showed up and sought her attention. One insult led to another, and before you know it, there was a gang after them. "Well, I guess I'd better go. I have a lot of work to do tonight and you both have a long trip ahead of you in the morning." Jeff said. "I wish I could say that I enjoyed seeing you both again; I did enjoy part of it anyway." "Jeff, don't think too badly of us. We are trying to be fair about everything, but this is an area that it's very hard to be fair in." Claire said. "Claire, Sam, I appreciate your bringing the Rangers new fighters. We desperately need them and can use all the help we can get. What hurts is the fact that those same fighters could have been sold to anyone with the price -- regardless of their intended use." Jeff said. "Business or no business, I don't think I could do that." "I guess that's where we differ, Jeff. Business is business. We can't think about how the weapons are being used and nothing we could make at the factory would pay for itself in the same way as these weapons do. We're caught between a rock and a hard place here." Sam said. "It's a question of survival." With that, Jeff turned and left. He didn't want to hear any more and he was afraid he would say something he would later regret. "Good Night, Jeff. Take care of yourself." Claire said. Jeff could barely hear what Claire said as he got into his shuttle and headed for his Ranger office. Shindi ran up to him as soon as he got out of the vehicle, seeing the bandage on Sinclair's head. "What happened to you?" Shindi asked. "Nothing. I ran into a brick wall, that's all." Jeff said sadly. Shindi followed Sinclair into his office and Amos wasn't far behind. "Ambassador, what happened to your head?" Amos asked. "It's nothing." Jeff said. He wanted to change the subject. "Tomorrow morning, I want to have a squadron check out the readings in quadrant 12. From the reports I read today, there may be some activity there that we will need to know about. "Yes, sir." Amos said. "I'll have Zeta squadron check it out in the morning. We had Omega patrol quadrant 14 today. Everything checked out normally but we'll continue to keep an eye on the area." Amos left the room for a moment and came back with some papers for Sinclair to sign. As he explained what the papers were, there was a knock at the door. "Come," Sinclair said. It was Dr. Hansen. Sinclair couldn't believe that they had actually called a doctor to look at his cut. "Dr. Hansen. I'm sorry my over-anxious staff got you out this evening. There's really nothing wrong with me that a bandaid can't cure." Jeff said. "Well, Dr. Sinclair. Do you mind if I render a second opinion? Since I'm here, I might as well look at your thick skull. I'm surprised anything could penetrate it!" Hansen said with a grin. Sinclair sat down at his desk and the good doctor came around, took off the bandage Claire had made and took a look at the cut above Sinclair's eye. "Well, I must say that you are pretty lucky, Ambassador. A little lower and you might have had some real problems. As it is, it's deep enough to require some patching though. While the wound is pretty clear, it won't take much to get infected. I'll put something on it for now, but I want to see you in the office tomorrow." Hansen said. "You have got to be kidding. This is a simple cut, nothing to be so concerned about. I've had much worse and survived." Sinclair said. "While I'm the doctor here, I'll not have anyone second-guessing me, thank you." Hansen said. "This could turn nasty without proper care. That's all I'm saying." "OK, Doc. I'll come to see you in the office. I'm sure that Amos or Shindi will hound me until I do, anyway. I love you guys, but you can be a royal pain in the ass sometimes." Sinclair said. "Why thank you." Amos said with a broad smile. "Dr. Hansen, let me show you to the door. When do you want Ambassador Sinclair in your office?" Amos asked. "Oh, whenever. It won't take long and I'll be in the office all day. Just make sure that he comes in. I don't want that cut getting any worse." Hansen said. "By the way, does your head hurt?" Dr. Hansen asked, looking at Sinclair? "Yes, a little. I'll take a couple of aspirin in a minute and that will be it." Jeff said. "OK, but let me know if you feel dizzy or have any nausea." Hansen said. "Yes, Doctor, I'll call you," Jeff said. "And it wouldn't hurt if you got a little sleep now and again, either," Hansen said as he was leaving. Sinclair just waved at the good doctor and Amos as they left. There would be time for all that when he felt a little more comfortable with his installation here. There was just so much to be done and so little time to do it in.