From: "Aubrey W. Adkins" {xazqrten@cox.net} Subject: John And Delenn After 20 Years Part 1 of 4 Original Publish Date: Tue, 19 Aug 1997 23:21:03 -0700 Standard disclaimer-all characters in this story are owned by JMS, PTEN and/or WB. They can have them back anytime. Send comments to [xazqrten@cox.net] Title: John And Delenn After 20 Years Part-1 This story will make more sense if you have read "Redheaded Telepath." However, it can stand on its own. "..." = spoken words {...} = telepathic speech [...] = one's own thoughts, internal (...) = to set off items such as acronyms immediately identified by the phrase they stand for. '...' = to set off odd items??? ****************************** As they followed the old Minbari into the aft section of the shuttle, John and Delenn exchanged puzzled glances. The door they had just passed through closed and latched behind them. "Sir, I know that you were sent to bring us to Epsilon III but, what are doing shut up in this part of the ship?" asked Delenn. "We are no longer in the shuttle," was the reply. "When the door closed behind you we were separated from the shuttle and phased into hyperspace." The old man passed one hand over a panel and what appeared to be an opaque observation port became transparent. Sure enough, they were looking into hyperspace with its eerie red patterns. There appeared to be a whitestar warship closing with them. As they closed to less than two kilometers, their craft, such as it was, encountered a tractor beam. The beam pulled them into what appeared to be a docking bay. As they departed their small craft, Delenn and John noticed that this whitestar seemed to be somewhat different than the standard configuration. They continued in silence until they arrived at what was obviously the ship's bridge. They looked at their escort and started to ask where the crew was. They had seen no other personnel except themselves and their escort. The bridge was deserted. They noticed that the control consoles didn't look like any they had seen before. As they watched, the old man who was their escort began to morph into a young redheaded woman. They stood very still in a state of shock. "Lyta," said both of them at once. "Johnny, Delenn, welcome to my private ship." John in a subdued voice, "Lyta, how did you pull this off? We thought you were dead. No one has seen you in over eighteen years." "I like my privacy. Besides, I have been very busy. Delenn asked me for a favor and now I’m able to oblige her." John had noticed that the ship was moving through hyperspace at a good speed. The question of how and who was piloting was evident by his facial expression. "When I said it was my private ship, I meant every word. This ship will only respond to me. It is similar to the relationship that Kosh had with his ship. It is connected to me telepathically. I think and it does. It thinks, Johnny. It is sentient." "Lyta? How long until we reach Epsilon III," asked Delenn. "About four hours. Give or take a few minutes." "How can we get there that fast in hyperspace?" asked Sheridan. "I’ll explain that at a later time. Just accept that all is not what it appears." ****************************** "We are exiting hyperspace through the Epsilon III jump gate," said a disembodied voice. In the ship's wardroom, Lyta, John and Delenn were enjoying hot tea and reminiscing some old memories. Lyta promised to bring them up to date after they arrived on Epsilon III. They entered a small shuttle in the ship's docking bay and dropped away toward the planet's surface. John and Delenn were astounded at the changes they saw as their shuttle landed in the spaceport. They had not seen Epsilon III in almost fifteen years and the changes were numerous, new buildings, a new spaceport and many beings of various races/species. "Babylon 5 serves as an intermediate transfer point and customs/immigration control," said Lyta to the unasked questions. Sheridan gave Lyta a querying look. "Johnny, we’re joined at the hip, courtesy of Kosh, remember? At this distance, I hear everything you think," said Lyta. "Follow me, we’re expected in our main medical facility." They entered what looked like an elevator and immediately dropped what seemed like a kilometer underground before the conveyance moved horizontally for some minutes. Finally, the door opened and they stepped out into a long passageway. Lyta led off at a brisk pace and shortly they entered what she said was the main medical facility. They proceeded into a very understated office, comfortable chairs and couch but otherwise, austere. They were sitting down when a very professional looking gentlemen in his mid fifties entered and sat down behind the desk. "Welcome home, Mrs. Blaine. You must be Mr. and Mrs. Sheridan," he continued. "I’m Dr. Drile. Mrs. Blaine filled me in about your case some time ago. We have been making preparations for the two of you." "The two of us?" asked Delenn. "Yes, didn't Mrs. Blaine explain it to you?" "No, I didn't Doctor. I thought it would be better if they learned it here from you." "Learned what?" asked John. The doctor pointed to the monitor on the far wall and said, "ISN feed." The newscaster was reading her report as a voice over to pictures of an explosion in space. "These pictures were recorded onboard the Whitestar 25 earlier today. Former Minbari ambassador Delenn and her husband, retired Admiral John Sheridan, were apparently killed in an accident that destroyed their shuttle as they were approaching the Whitestar 25. There has not been an official announcement as to what may have caused the accident. The Minbari government has instigated an inquiry. John Sheridan, also known to the Minbari as ‘Star Killer’ because of his actions during the Earth-Minbari war, was reported to have many old enemies amongst the Minbari warrior cast. The safety record of Minbari shuttles is such that many do not believe that the destruction of the shuttle was an accident. "Lyta. What the hell have you done?" demanded Sheridan, at just below a yell. "I killed both you and Delenn. She asked me to give you back your lifespan, if I ever found a way. Well, I found a way." "Why the games?" "No games, John. If it ever got out what we can do here, there would be hell to pay throughout the galaxy." "I don't understand," said John and Delenn as one voice. "You remember how Delenn became part human? Well, we’ve learned how to make triluminaries. I mean customized triluminaries. With them, I can make you anything you want to be. The doctor has made one that will take you as you are and return you to perfect human health. In addition, you will be better than new. Delenn, we’re making another one for you. It will complete your transformation to being a human." "Lyta, why is that necessary?" asked Delenn. "Delenn, you are the only female Minbari-Human hybrid in the galaxy. A DNA scan of you would identify you immediately. When we get through, both of you will be perfectly healthy and have DNA patterns that can be traced back to here. We can give you any identity we choose to." "You will be able to live long, happy lives and no one will ever know the truth except us," said Dr. Drile. John and Delenn arrived 15 minutes early for the dinner Lyta had suggested in her quarters. She had intimated there would be others present. She said she wanted to introduce them to some old friends. As they entered the apartment, they were greeted by what appeared to be Dr. Stephen Franklin's son and Bester's son and daughter. Lyta introduced them and John and Delenn were momentarily speechless. These weren't offspring, they were the originals. All of them appeared to be no older than late twenties or early thirties. After the introductions, Stephen recommended appropriate drinks until the caterer presented dinner. The apartment was sumptuous, a mixture of pastels with some brightly colored furniture to accent the decorations. The chairs and sofas were heavily padded and upholstered in combinations of cloth and leather. Lyta seemed to have a thing for leather. The door opened and Paul entered followed by two redheaded young men of about 19 or 20 years. It was obvious they were twins. "John, Delenn, I want you to meet my sons Michael and John. They were named for you and Michael Garibaldi," said Lyta. Both boys bowed to Delenn and John and said in unison, "Hello." The boys were taller than Sheridan. "They have been studying hard these last few years John. I’m hoping that in a few years they’ll be ready to take over for me," said Lyta. "Take over for you?" asked Delenn. "Yes. There are some things I want to devote more time to," replied Lyta. The caterer approached Lyta and informed her that the meal could begin at any time. What followed was a long leisurely meal in the old world European tradition, multiple courses and plenty of conversation. Dr. Franklin was enthusiastic over the advances they had made in genetic engineering. His enlightenments led to a long discussion of the discoveries made in new ways to use the triluminary types of equipments. It was obvious to Delenn and John that their upcoming experiences would be very different from the Delenn experience during her change. "Stephen, will I retain any of my present features during this change?" inquired Delenn. "I am fond of my partial crest." "No problem, we will only change your DNA patterns. Your brain functions, memories and other general health concerns will in better shape than ever. There are additional changes that will be made that will require both of you to undergo a period of readjustment," replied the doctor. "Delenn, both of you will be telepaths when the changes are complete. That is why you will be retrained. Handling telepathic abilities isn't something that comes naturally to humans, yet," added Lyta. "I take it there isn't a choice in this?" asked Sheridan. Lyta nodded no. "I’ll give you and Delenn the very long version after you undergo your changes. I know you will approve." "This is what you removed from my mind years ago isn't it?" asked Sheridan. "I never removed it, John. I simply put a barrier up to block your subconscious mind from misunderstanding it until the time was right," replied Lyta. "You said your ship was sentient. How is that possible?" asked Delenn. "I will also explain that, after your changes," replied Lyta. From John, "Lyta, it seems like a lot hinges on the changes we will undergo." "There is, John. After the changes there will be no going back to what was. Both of you are about to become part of something you can't possibly imagine at the present time. You’re going to begin a whole new adventure," said Lyta. Lyta walked over to Sheridan, put her arms around his neck and gave him a very passionate kiss. She sent him a mental message, {I would never do anything to hurt you.} She turned to Delenn gave her a hug and told her the same thing she had told Sheridan. John and Delenn departed down the passageway to their quarters. Neither said anything until they reached their apartment. ****************************** As they entered their apartment John and Delenn looked at one another for a whole minute before the questions began. "John, how do you feel about all this?" "I’m not sure, Delenn. We both know that my time is running out shortly. Lyta has assured us that everything’ll be okay. And, she has never done anything to us that was not in our best interests." "It would make me feel better, if I knew more of the details." "I trust her, so we will just have to go on faith." "I am tired John, lets talk about it later." After getting in bed, John turned to Delenn and slowly drew her to him. If he was going to be indisposed for any length of time, he had better make the most of tonight. Her responses told him she agreed. Morning came quickly, John felt like he had been asleep for only a few minutes. Delenn was already up fixing breakfast. "That smells delicious, Delenn." "I didn't want you starting the upcoming journey on an empty stomach. Besides, after last night I would think you need replenishment. You have about an hour and a half before you must meet Steven." "I feel better about the whole thing this morning. Do you think Lyta has been bolstering my attitude surreptitiously?" "I don't think so. She hasn't done anything like that in the past." With breakfast finished, they went to meet Dr. Franklin in the medical center. It was time. The room John was taken to was a typical hospital room with what appeared to be a cryogenic chamber standing in the center. There were myriad tubes and wires running between the chamber and many pieces of equipment. Sheridan approached the chamber with obvious apprehension. Stephen assured him that everything was ready. Wearing only a thin biodegradable hospital gown John climbed into the chamber. He started counting backward from 100 as instructed as soon as the chamber lid was closed and sealed. At 59 he quit counting and was asleep. Delenn looked at Stephen for comfort. "Everything looks fine, Delenn," replied Stephen to her unvoiced question. On her way out of the medical facility, Delenn encountered Lyta. "Good morning Delenn. I take it that John's journey has begun?" "Yes. What brings you by here this morning?" "Nothing. I planned to talk with you alone as soon as John was taken care of. You asked me to help you. I keep my promises. Let's walk for awhile and talk." Delenn nodded assent. The walk seemed to meander through park like facilities, trees, carefully tended gardens, and even a labyrinth like maze from trimmed hedge-like plants. It occurred to Delenn that they were not underground. {That's right,} came Lyta's voice in her head. {There are gardens similar to this on all over the planet both above and belowground.} Delenn stopped and looked at Lyta. {Are you scanning me?} {Yes. I’m giving you a preview of what the future holds. After your changes, you’ll only have to use vocal communications with non-telepaths. You’ll find telepathy much more efficient,} responded Lyta. {Not to mention more private. No one else can hear our conversation.} They had arrived at a stone garden reminiscent of the one on Babylon 5. Lyta invited Delenn to share a bench. As they were being seated, Lyta asked Delenn how she felt about what she knew so far about what was in store for her and John. {Why did you not want to discuss things with John before he went into the cocoon?} {His military background and provincial perspectives wouldn't allow him to appreciate my plans.} {I don't understand?} What followed over the next hour was a astonishing amount of information in the form of ideas and pictures. Delenn was reeling from the amount of data she had absorbed. She couldn't even determine where to begin asking questions much less formulate the questions themselves. "You are correct Lyta. He wouldn't have understood. I am having trouble understanding what you have showed to me. I must think about it. I want to ask questions later," said Delenn. {No problem. Let's find a cafe and have a snack and drink. I want to answer your questions.} Hearing someone in your mind was going to take some getting used to. [I wonder if this is going to be the kind of training she was talking about.] {Yes, it’s a small part of it.} The response came. Delenn rubbed her eyes and got up to follow Lyta out of the garden. The idea of a snack and drink was becoming more desirable by the minute. The pastry was delicious and the tea tasted heavenly. Lyta was fantastic company. It occurred to Delenn that her redheaded companion was beginning to grow on her. Whatever it was that had impressed her during her first meetings with Lyta so many years ago, she was aware that the feelings had changed and grown. There was a bond which she had apparently not been aware of in the past. {Why now?} She looked at Lyta and wondered what having a brother and/or sister would be like. Since there was no response in her mind, she thought Lyta was not listening to her. She thought back over the years since her first arrival on Babylon 5. She had embraced Ivanova on numerous occasions when she shared distress with her over various situations and wondered if that was what sisters would have done and felt. Until last night, she had only ever held hands with Lyta when they went to Z'ha'dum, trying to learn if John were alive. Lyta had never expressed feelings of love toward anyone except Paul. She had asked for help only one time, when her back was against the wall with little chance of escaping alive. She had repaid that debt many times over. "Do you want to talk about it?" asked Lyta. "You read my mind?" asked Delenn. "No. The expression on your face led me to believe you are struggling with some emotional thoughts. I can sense the emotional turmoil, but nothing else unless I scan you. You are entitled to your private thoughts. In the garden, we used telepathy because it was agreeable to both of us. Unless you assent, I won't scan you." There was something about Lyta that had Delenn's emotions in an uproar. It was infuriating that she couldn't grasp exactly what it was. She was stressed out and she knew it. The why of her stress was going to take some serious meditation. They finished the snack and drinks and started walking in the general direction of Delenn's apartment. The walk was in silence. As the apartment door opened, Delenn told Lyta that she had some serious meditating to do. Lyta nodded and left. Inside her apartment Delenn set about preparing for meditation. ****************************** {I was correct Stephen; Delenn is going to have the roughest problems with the situation.} {In what manner?} {She has been so independent and self-sufficient for so long that she is terrified of losing that state of being.} {Let me guess. You told her about what was to come?} {Yes, and her reaction was about what I expected. John is a soldier. He takes the unknown as it presents itself. Delenn doesn't like the unknown dropping in with no warning.} {How are you going to handle her?} {She is meditating now. I expect that by this evening she will have many questions ready for me. I’ll just take them as they come.} {Are you going to tell her the entire truth up front?} {Yes. I’ll answer all of her questions truthfully.} {How about the ones she doesn't ask?} Lyta shrugged her shoulders and did a hand wave that indicated, maybe, maybe not. {If she doesn't ask, I can't answer.} {I just hope you know what you are doing. It seems pretty shaky to me.} Raising an eyebrow, {Really? Since when haven't I known what I’m doing?} {It just seems shaky to me, that's all.} {Your point is noted Stephen.} Smiling to herself, Lyta left, all the while thinking, [Worry wart.] Lyta went back to her office and spent the rest of the day reflecting on the Sheridans and how she was handling them. She loved both of them dearly and wanted everything to go well for them. Somewhere into the afternoon, she heard Paul, {Lyta you are worse than a mother hen. I sometimes think you don't give the Sheridans enough credit.} {Paul, I don't worry about John. Delenn is a whole other universe. I know her better than anyone else. I have scanned her before and when I tell you she is having trouble with this, please, believe me.} {I do sweetheart. I suppose I’ll see you when I see you?} {Yes. I’ll be busy for a while.} ****************************** Lyta rang the bell on Delenn's apartment. Delenn opened the door and invited her in. "I am just fixing something for supper. Will you join me?" {Of course.} "Lyta, let's use vocal communication tonight." "As you wish." "It will take me some time to get used to hearing you in my mind. You have had a lifetime to master it. I have only just begun." Delenn set the table and brought the food. Lyta was pleased that it smelled wonderful. Whatever else Delenn might do, her cooking abilities were superb, right up there with Michael Garibaldi's. They started the meal in silence, but that silence didn't last long. Delenn was eager to get to her questions. "You said both John and I would have telepathic abilities after our changes. What will those abilities be? I mean just how telepathic will we be?" "Something above a P-12. The abilities will be more than any Psi Corps personnel had and they will be more diverse." "How long will John live after the changes?" "I honestly don't know. Our research indicates that your life spans will be greater than any Minbari or Human that has ever lived, up to now. I promise you will have time for very long conversations." "What will the retraining consist of?" "We have taken the Psi Corps training agendas and modified them to suit our purposes. The training may last several years. This won't be a problem since your lives will be greatly extended. It may seem like a long time now, but it really is necessary." "What exactly did you mean when you said your ship was sentient?" "That's a little harder. What you don't know about is the research into biological equipments for a better name. We take raw tissues and try to develop living things to replace some of our mechanical devices. It is similar to what the Shadows did, but it doesn't involve using living beings." "I am afraid I really don't begin to understand." "When I said my ship was sentient, what I meant was that it can think on its own at a low level and is aware of itself. It is also permanently linked to me telepathically. I feel what it is doing. Its sensors are like an extension of my own senses. It can react to threats on its own. My ethical and moral values are what guide its final actions. It can react to a threat a thousand times faster than a ship with a full crew. It is in essence an extension of me. The major difference between it and a Shadow vessel is that there are no modifications necessary to interface with it. All you have to do is be accepted by it. A ship can be reassigned to another person in a matter of hours. We take very good care of our ships and they take very good care of us. The life expectancy of one of our ships is about a thousand years give or take a couple of centuries." "This is a lot to digest Lyta. It is going to take time." "I’m here to help you in any way possible. Just ask. There will eventually be a ship assigned to you and John. It will respond only to the two of you." Lyta could feel the distress and anxiety that exuded from Delenn. She wasn't sure what was causing it, but she could wait for Delenn to broach the subject. They were finished with the meal. They sat and talked about old friends, some of whom hadn't been seen in more than a decade. It was obvious to Lyta that Delenn was talking about everything except what was bothering her. It was getting late so Lyta took her leave and started home. As she left, she mentally set up a part of her mind to make light contact with Delenn's mind for the purpose of monitoring her. It was hard to play by the rules when you could rewrite them. Delenn started thinking about her fear of losing John and the guilt she felt for being, to her point of view, very selfish. She had been preparing for this occasion for twenty years and now she had been told it was all for nothing. The relief she was feeling knowing she would not lose him after all was driving her up against an emotional wall. Maybe if she told Lyta how she felt, she might be able to help her come to terms with her guilt. How was she going to bring herself to even mention it? She was not accustomed to showing vulnerability, which she considered a weakness, to people, but Lyta was different. She didn't seem to want to sit in judgment of anyone, especially those she considered friends. She had been able to help Michael Garibaldi after he had been captured by the Shadows. She had also helped Susan Ivanova after the death of Marcus. {Maybe she could help me,} thought Delenn as she drifted off to sleep. In her apartment entwined with her husband, Lyta smiled to herself. {You are just peachy pleased with yourself, aren't you?} came Paul's question. {As a matter of fact I am.} During the next several weeks, Delenn kept herself occupied with meditations and routine checks on John. She was wondering when they would begin her procedure. She had seen Lyta a number of times during the same period and had dinner and conversation with her and Paul. ****************************** {Paul, I’m going to be gone for a couple of days. I’m taking Delenn on a short trip.} {Oh, to where?} {Z'ha'dum, or at least what's left of it. I’m going to do some hunting.} With a look of concern on his face, {What’re you going to be hunting?} {Pirates.} {Lyta, that is very dangerous.} {For whom? There isn't anything to worry about.} {I will always worry.} In her apartment, the door chimes surprised Delenn. "Come in." The door opened and in walked Lyta. "Delenn. I’m going on a little trip and I want you to come with me." "Where are we going? When will we return?" "To Z'ha'dum or what's left of it and in a few days." "Give me a few minutes to pack some clothing." Half an hour later, they were in Lyta's shuttle on their way to her ship. An hour after arriving on Lyta's ship, they were through Epsilon III's jump gate and in hyperspace. "How long until we get there?" {A couple of hours. Let's go to the wardroom and have some tea and meaningful conversation?} The thoughts caught Delenn off guard. "Lyta?" {Think Delenn, don't talk.} "I am not comfortable with this thought communication." {I know. That's why we’re going to use it. You need practice and no one can overhear us or interrupt us.} "You wanted to get me alone. Why?" {You have always been my friend, no questions asked. I’m your friend and I’m determined to make this process go as smoothly as possible for you and there is no one better equipped for the job.} "I don't know what to say." {Don't say, think. As a Minbari, you learned certain mental disciplines. We’ll start with those and proceed from there.} {I don't know where to start.} {Think about anything you wish. I’ll hear you and only respond when appropriate.} {Does this mean you will be scanning me?} {Yes, but only a light surface scan.} {Lyta, I am really not comfortable about this.} {I know. You have been riding an emotional roller coaster ever since I brought you and John to Epsilon III. I can help you work your way through it if you’ll let me.} {You are my friend and friends don't allow friends to suffer needless pain, if it can be avoided.} One look at Lyta told Delenn she was dead center on target. {Take it at your own pace, in your own way. We have time and there is no one to distract us.} Delenn started to think about her worst fears of the past two decades. It wasn't long until her thoughts were a kaleidoscope of emotions - love, hate, fear, and the whole shooting match. Lyta was staggered for a moment by the myriad images she perceived in Delenn's thoughts. It was going to be a real job getting it all sorted out, but it would be done. The strongest thoughts were those that Delenn had about the loss of John. She had hidden her real feelings about it from everyone, but herself. Now, Lyta knew of them. She was studying Lyta's face. All she saw was a concerned friend. There was no indication that Lyta had even heard her thoughts, but she knew better. Except for possibly the Vorlons, Lyta was probably the most powerful telepath in this part of the galaxy. The more she thought about John the harder it was to keep her emotions in check. Thinking of John and his scheduled demise brought her almost to tears. {Let it go, there is no one but us. No one else will ever know.} Delenn was looking at Lyta and her eyes were filled with tears. It wasn't fair. She could handle this. She had handled it before. {Delenn, tell me about your family. Tell me about Dukhat.} While thinking this, Lyta had moved to sit beside Delenn. She put her arms around her and held her close and rested her cheek against her hair and crest. When the crying started Delenn's thoughts became absolutely tumultuous. Their intensity was staggering for a non-telepath. The expression of her emotions through tears was new to Delenn. She was angry that she was displaying such weakness, yet, she was powerless to stop. {Turn it all loose. I’m here with you. I love you Delenn. You are the sister I never had.} How much later it was when she regained her composure, Delenn did not know. She felt better than she had in years. She didn't for a moment believe that it was solely due to her massive crying spell. The stealthy hand of Lyta was involved. {Lyta, what did you do to me?} {Nothing really. As you relived all your pains and fears, I simply helped you understand them. I didn't do anything a good ‘shrink' couldn't do. The difference is I didn't need years to get it done. If someone were to do a deep scan on you, they would not find anything except a very peaceful well-balanced person.} {I am soaked from all my crying. I need to change clothes.} Lyta released Delenn and went back to her chair. {Now that we are finished with this, we can do what I really came out here to do.} They had arrived at the position formerly occupied by Z'ha'dum several hours ago. {What did we come out here to do?} {Hunt pirates and raiders. There are still many of them operating and they make good target practice.} Delenn looked at Lyta with astonishment. {Target practice!} {That's what I call it. What I do is I set a trap and see what comes my way.} {Isn't that dangerous with only one ship? When I encountered the Drakh, I had a squadron of whitestars with me and it was a real firefight. We lost one ship and the others had damage.} {That wasn't this whitestar. Besides remember whom you are with. I could kill them even without the weapons systems I have available. Not to worry.} {How are you going to lure them into a trap?} {I’m sending out a distress signal identifying myself as a freighter that is suffering engine failure. It shouldn't be too long now.} Shaking her head Delenn thought, {I am not believing this.} {Believe it. Let's eat some lunch while we wait.} The wait wasn't very long. They had finished lunch and were having after dinner tea when the pirates showed up. They came through the jump gate and headed straight toward the whitestar. There were two Drakh mother ships and their fighters. The fighters were deploying preparing to attack the apparently helpless freighter. Watching the tactical projection at the front of the bridge, Delenn began throwing furtive looks at Lyta who was smiling. It wasn't a pleasant smile. It was the type used by children as they tortured helpless animals. This Lyta was scaring the living hell out of her. ****************************** Later, back on Epsilon III: Delenn was asleep. Stephen left the laboratory room and proceeded to Lyta's office. Entering Lyta's office, Steven didn't wait to be invited to sit down. {You didn't tell her or John that they’re the first to have the changes they’re undergoing, did you?} {No.} {Why not?} {Steven, they were mundanes. They do not understand ordinary telepathy. Just how do you suppose I could tell them the whole truth and expect them to understand this advanced type. Hell, I’m not really sure you understand it.} {I don't.} {After they emerge and I train them and you see the results, then it’ll make sense; I promise.} {Yeah, and you always keep your promises.} {If I didn't know you better I would think you’re being sarcastic.} Mumbling to himself, Steven left. Lyta smiled. Jacking Steven's jaw could be fun. ****************************** {Why are you going to Babylon 5?} {I’m going to do some shopping, Paul.} {Shopping? What do they have there that we don't have here?} {Exactly.} {Exactly what? Don't do that Vorlon impression on me.} {Exactly what we don't have here.} {It's not exactly safe there.} {I have heard that line before.} {You really aren't going to tell me what you’re after. Are you?} {Yes.} {Yes you are or yes you are not?} {Precisely.} Mumbling to himself, Paul went into the kitchen. She smiled. She was going to have to break herself of this habit. Jacking someone's jaw was fun, but she was getting hooked on it. Now she understood the Vorlons better. They had a sadistic sense of humor. Lyta went into the kitchen and snuggled up to Paul. {It won't work.} She snuggled closer and nibbled on his ear. {It won't work.} [Damned male physiology.] It was too working. He took her into his arms and proceeded to kiss her passionately. ****************************** Next morning when Paul awakened, Lyta was already gone. He called in and took the day off. After nights like last night, he simply wasn't up to going to the office. [So much for male physical superiority.] Paul had heard jokes about making love until a man's brains were gone. He began to feel that a computer aided topographical (CAT) scan might be in order. ****************************** "Good morning, Mrs. Blaine. To what do we owe the pleasure of this visit?" asked the young security man. "I’m just doing some shopping," replied Lyta. Lyta had arrived on the regular planet-B5 shuttle and a young man was making idle conversation. It was apparent that he was admiring her appearance. [Boys, they’re the same all over the universe.] As she departed the customs area Lyta sent a thought to the youngster. He felt a sensation of pleasure that almost sent him into ecstasy. [I must quit doing that,] she mused. {Yes, you simply must,} came a response from Paul. {Okay. Enough already.} Paul was sweet, but his sense of humor could use some working on. ****************************** She hadn't been on the station in almost five years. Some of the shops had changed, new owners and merchandise. She had heard it was still a hotbed of intrigue of all sorts. She thought it would be fun to just sit at a cafe table and watch what went on for a while. She had been sitting at a table nursing a drink for over an hour when she became aware that someone was taking more than a passing interest in her. She never turned to look. She used the trick of scanning someone who was looking in the direction she wanted. Sure enough, there he was, a non-descript fellow, just a bit too well dressed to be a lurker. She did a light surface scan of the man and concluded that he was going to be trouble. He would regret it. Giving the man no more thought, her attention was drawn to an argument between two shopkeepers. Lots of shouting and shoving until security arrived, then they went into their shops. Lyta noted the younger of the security guards. He was handsome and he had been respectful to the shopkeepers in spite of their tirade of abuse. Lyta finished the drink and departed the area. She intended to have a walk in the gardens and give her shadow a chance to reveal himself. She got as far as the second passageway from the Zocalo before her way was blocked by two burly, badly dressed men. The man she had observed earlier was behind her and he wasn't alone. "What can I do for you gentlemen?" she asked in a soft voice. "You can start by handing over your money and jewelry," said the larger of the men in front of her. "If I give you my money and jewelry, will you let me go?" "A lady as pretty as you must be worth something to someone." "You have answered all my questions. If you don't leave now, you won't be able to leave under your own power." Sneering at her the larger man said, "I’ll give you this lady, you have balls." With that he moved toward her. His screams and those of his associates must have been heard in Command & Control. They were writhing on the floor and screaming as loud as was possible when security arrived, about two minutes later. Lyta was still standing where she had been accosted. The first security personnel on the scene were the two she had recently observed in the Zocalo. As they arrived the men stopped screaming and thrashing around. The young men looked at the muggers then at Lyta. "What happened, ma'am?" "They tried to rob me of my money and jewelry." "What happened to them?" "They changed their minds." "Did you do this?" "Yes." "How? What kind of weapon did you use?" "I didn't use a weapon." Just then an older woman in a security uniform arrived and took charge of the scene. The young security man related his conversation with Lyta. "Ma'am could I have your indenti-card please?" asked the woman. She ran the card through the scanner. "Is the captain aware of your presence on the station?" "No. I'm here to do some shopping. Why would your captain be interested in me?" "Mrs. Blaine, you are a diplomatic representative of Epsilon III; the captain has standing orders to be notified when diplomatic representatives arrive and depart Babylon 5." "The young man at customs ran my card through his scanner. Maybe his device was malfunctioning. I hope no one is in trouble because of this." "No ma'am. It happens occasionally. The captain just doesn't want any one getting a shot at a diplomat, if it can be prevented. You may even know the captain, he was a young lieutenant when you left the station about twenty years ago. Captain Corwin, he is being promoted to admiral soon. He had high recommendations from John and Delenn Sheridan and Admiral Susan Ivanova. I believe you know them." "That was a long time ago," replied Lyta, thoughtfully. "Will you come to security and sign the complaint form ma'am?" "Of course." On her way to security she conversed with the young security man that had caught her eye. By the time they had arrived at security, she had decided she would take him with her. The thought that he might want to have something to say about it never occurred to her. She was used to getting what she wanted. While the complaint was being typed, the communications panel chirped and the captain asked Mrs. Blaine to come to his office in C&C. ****************************** In the captain's office, Lyta said, "Congratulations Captain Corwin." "Thank you, ma'am." "Call me, Lyta, please. Ma'am makes me feel old." Considering the fact that Lyta must be pushing sixty and looked to be thirty, Corwin chuckled. "No one has seen you in more than a decade. Are you really only shopping?" "Yes, captain, but not for regular merchandise." "May I ask what it is you’re shopping for?" "Of course. People." "People??" "Yes." "What are you recruiting for?" "As you know, no one migrates to Epsilon III. However, we like to bring in new people, occasionally, and they must meet some very strict standards both physically and especially mentally. I do some of the recruiting and evaluating of those recruits." "Seen any on the station that interest you?" "Yes. I’ll fill you in after I have completed my task. I won't steal anybody. I promise." Remembering what he knew that she could do from the past, he doubted anyone could do anything to stop her. "Please come and see me before you leave." "You have my word, captain." [Nice man. Turned out very well. He’ll make a fine admiral.] ****************************** Back in the Zocalo, Lyta bought another drink and sat at a table watching the people go about their business. There were more different species to be seen here than anywhere else in this part of the galaxy. It was a smorgasbord of opportunities. There was much interplay amongst the merchants and customers. A young Narn and Centauri were sitting at a table across the way and were engrossed in a discussion. Even after two decades it was uncommon to see these two species doing anything together. Theirs wasn't a history of friendship and cooperation. This fact alone would have caused them to catch her attention. Lyta walked over to their table. Both young men, the Narn and the Centauri looked up at her and asked what they could do for her. She asked permission to sit at their table. With a nod both of them motioned for her to have a seat. "I’m curious," she said, "it’s not often that I see a Narn and Centauri sharing a table." "Ma'am," said the Narn, "the war has been over for two decades. My friend and I never had anything to do with it. It was the politicians who started the damned thing." The Centauri nodded agreement. Their thoughts were strong enough for her to read them as the truth even without scanning them. "Have you given thought to what you want to do in the future?" she asked. "Yes ma'am, we have," said the Centauri. "We have been discussing some business ventures," replied the Narn. "Have either of you thought about diplomatic service?" she inquired. "No ma'am," they replied in unison. "I know of opportunities for the right people in diplomatic service and the business propositions that accompany that service. Might you be interested?" she asked. Both young men looked at her with open suspicion. "If you will give me your names and addresses, I’ll have one of my representatives contact you for further discussions.” "Ma'am, just who do you represent?" asked the Narn. "Epsilon III," answered Lyta. She knew she had their attention. "Ma'am, you indeed have our interest," said the Narn. They gave Lyta their names and addresses on the station. She thanked them and left. The young men watched her leave and wondered who had smiled on them. ****************************** Lyta strolled through other parts of the station observing the people who were out and about. Her meandering finally brought her to the quarters of the Epsilon III ambassador. As she approached the door, it opened and a voice in her head said, {Come on in.} She found herself in the presence of a middle-aged lady of about 60 years. {Make yourself comfortable.} The lady handed her a glass of juice and took a seat on the other end of the couch. {Is this an official visit?} {No, Willa. I was looking for a few good men and women and decided that manners required that I stop and say hello. Here is data on two prospects. I want you to do the preliminary follow-ups. I’ll have probably have a few others before I leave.} {It is opportune that you chose today to visit the station. Captain Corwin is being promoted to rear admiral and Admiral Susan Ivanova is coming to do the honors. I believe you knew her when she was the executive officer of Babylon 5, serving under Captain John Sheridan.} {It has been a long time since I last saw Susan. I’ll be happy to attend the ceremonies. Isn't it unusual for someone of her stature to come way out here for an occasion like this.} {There is an unannounced meeting between the Narn and Centauri heads of state tomorrow. There is going to be a dinner with the ambassadors as part of the festivities marking a new relationship to be announced concerning the Narns and Centauris.} {Oh! Then I definitely want to attend; have us seated at the admiral's table. Will there be a problem with that?} {Not at all. It isn't every day that the station is honored with a visit by the prime minister of Epsilon III. It will impress the hell out of the ambassadors.} {The only reason I want to go is to see Susan. I haven't seen her in almost twenty years. What time does the dinner begin?} {The dinner part is at 1900 hours. The advancement ceremonies will follow immediately thereafter. There are expected to be meetings for negotiations and treaty signing day after tomorrow.} {I’ll return about 1800 tomorrow.} Finishing her juice, Lyta took her leave and continued her self-guided tour of the station. ****************************** "Admiral Ivanova, welcome to Babylon 5," said Commander Sally Wilcox, "the captain is tied up with the Centauri and Narn ambassadors; so, I am to see to your accommodations and other needs before the ceremonies." Smiling at the past pictures brought to mind by the mention of the Narn and Centauri ambassadors in the same room, Susan said, "Lead on commander. Any further information about when Londo and G'Kar will arrive?" "Londo and G'Kar?" "Yeah, I knew ‘em before they became important." Susan noticed the two security personnel that followed unobtrusively at a discrete distance. [They're not going to give anyone a real chance at me. So much for privacy.] Even less obtrusive were the two in front. By way of explanation, "Captain's orders, admiral." ****************************** M T C O O O R M E Epart 2Return to Aubrey's FanFic
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