From: "Aubrey W. Adkins" {xazqrten@cox.net}
Subject: John And Delenn After 20 Years Part 2 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-2

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???

******************************

   Lyta had returned to the Zocalo, bought a drink, and sat down. She had
just settled into watching the various beings going about their business
when she noticed the small entourage entering the Zocalo from the
direction of customs and immigration. There were two security guards in
front and two bringing up the rear. There was a commander and what must
be Admiral Ivanova walking in between them. She could read the admiral's
irritation it was so strong. [It must chafe Susan to be treated this way.] 
As the group exited the area, Lyta went back to people watching.

   {Willa.}

   {Yes, Lyta?}

   {Check on Admiral Ivanova for me. Is she married or presently seeing anyone?}

   {I'll get back to you in a few minutes.}

   About fifteen minutes later, {Lyta, she isn't married and isn't seeing 
anyone. In fact, there is no record of her ever seeing anyone. She has the 
nickname ‘Ice Queen'.}

   {Thanks, Willa. Paul!}

   {Yes, Lee. What are you up to now?}

   {I want you to come up here and bring Mark with you.}

   {He has a job, Lee, and so do I.}

   {I know that. Just do it for me. I’m doing an old friend a favor.}

   {Does this friend know anything about this favor?}

   {No.}

   {I thought as much. We’ll be up on the last shuttle. It leaves in about 
half an hour.}

   {That’ll be just fine.}

   {Willa?}

   {Yes?}

   {Try to get me places for Paul and Mark at the dinner, also.}

******************************

   Just over an hour later, Paul and Mark came through customs into the 
Zocalo. Spotting Lyta, they went straight to her table and sat down.

   {Are you going to explain what this is all about?}

   {Of course. Mark you’re unattached and about sixty. I need your help.}

   {Before I say yes, am I going to regret this?}

   {I don't think so.} She showed them the images of the admiral and her
entourage. {Susan Ivanova has never liked being treated like she couldn't take 
care of herself.}

   {Okay, but what does that have to do with Mark.}

   She showed them images of her meeting with the captain. {Since I can 
obviously take care of myself, he couldn't force me to accept station security 
as bodyguards. Protocol leaves Susan at his mercy in that respect.}

    {What does that have to do with me?}

    {I’m going to have you replace the security guards.}

   {Lee, he has duties and a job on the planet. You can't just be high-handed 
about this.}

   Her response was to raise one beautiful eyebrow.

   {Will you just meet her before you say no, Mark?}

   Astounded at being asked instead of told, Mark replied, {Okay. Is ‘no’ an 
option for me?}

   {Yes. If you don't want to do this, I won't hold it against you. With 
Susan, it’s possible she may reject the idea.]

   {Willa?}

   {I heard the conversation. I’ll try to bring her down.}

 *****************************

   The doorbell chimed in the quarters assigned to Admiral Ivanova. "Yes!"

   "Admiral Ivanova, I am the ambassador for Epsilon III; may I come in?"

   The door opened on Susan's command and Willa entered.

   "What can I do for you, ambassador?"

   "Well, first, call me Willa. I have been asked to invite you on a guided 
tour of the station by an old friend of yours."

   "You know I commanded this place once upon a time, don't you?"

   "Yes, but that was a long time ago, things change."

   "Yes, I suppose they do."

   "Who’s this friend?"

   "She asked me not to tell you that. She wants to surprise you."

   "Okay, I'm game. Let me put something on."

   "Admiral, not the uniform, please."

   Smiling at the older lady, [Older hell, she's about my age.] Susan put on 
a plain lightweight pantsuit. "This do?"

   "Yes, ma'am."

   "Willa, call me Susan. When we’re with the rest of the representatives we 
can use titles. I like being just plain Susan."

   As they left Susan's quarters, they picked up the security escort. The 
small entourage headed toward the Zocalo. 

******************************

   As they entered the Zocalo, Susan started scanning the faces of the people 
she could see. She didn't see anyone she recognized. Willa was guiding her 
toward a table located near the exit to the customs area. They appeared to be 
heading toward a table with two young men and a young woman. The young woman 
had red hair the color of brilliantly polished copper. Susan would bet that in 
natural light the hair color would blind you. She was thinking, [I haven't 
seen hair like that in twenty years.]

   {Really.}

   They were about twenty feet from the table when the voice had spoken inside 
her head, and Susan stopped in mid stride so quickly that one of the 
bodyguards almost stumbled over her.  She stared at the redhead. [Lyta!]

   The redhead looked her straight in the eyes and smiled. Susan recognized 
the old familiar smile.

   Taking offered seats, Willa and Susan sat down. Susan was having trouble 
adjusting to a Lyta that looked young enough to be her daughter.

   "Part of the modifications, Susan."

   "Lyta?"

   "Of course, who else would I be?"

   Susan was speechless for a moment. Drinks that obviously been ordered 
before she arrived were brought to the table.

   "Susan, you’ve met Willa Armstead, our ambassador to B-5. You know my 
husband Paul. This is Mark Baker, one of my associates. Mark. Let me introduce 
Admiral Susan Ivanova. She, Paul, and I go way back."

   Susan acknowledged the introductions. "Mark, you’re one of Lyta's
associates?"

   Mark - realizing her hair had not yet started to go grey in spite of her 
age and that Susan was beautiful - said, "I’m not sure associate is quite the 
correct term. I was one of those frozen telepaths she rescued."

   "Susan, don't buy that ‘I’m nothing’ image Mark is fostering. He was 
trained as a ranger, and is the equal of Marcus in hand-to-hand combat. He’s 
also a fine engineer, and he’s not as young as he looks."

   Susan didn't need math to realize that Mark must be close to her age, even 
if he looked as young as Lyta.

   "If you want, you can call Captain Corwin and give the guards the night 
off."

   "That won't be necessary prime minister," said Captain Corwin, who had
approached unnoticed.

   Lifting his communications badge to his lips, Corwin notified security that 
the guards were being dismissed until further notice. The guards saluted and
departed.

   "Captain, you sneaked up on us," said Lyta.

   "You are joking."

   "Not at all. You present no danger. I’m always scanning for emotions and 
thoughts that convey danger. You don't exude any, so I really wasn't aware 
that you were there. Besides, the guards were watching all directions."

   "You have a lot of faith in those guards."

   "They are alert, captain. You have good security people here," replied
Lyta.

   "I take it all of you will be at the dinner tomorrow evening."

   Lyta noted a look in Willa's eyes as she looked at Captain Corwin. She had 
seen that look before many years ago. It was the look that Delenn had always 
given John when she was pleased with him. She also noted the casual way Corwin 
had put his hand on Willa's Shoulder.

   "Yes, we will."

   "Admiral, ambassador, prime minister, gentlemen, good evening."

   "He was the hardest working junior officer I have ever had," said 
Susan. "He was also just about the smartest. I wonder why he never married?"

   "For the same reason that you never married, Susan," said Willa, "his 
career. He didn't feel right about trying to drag a family around wherever he 
was assigned. He didn't think it was fair to a wife and children. At his age 
now, it’s a little late to think about those things."

   "You sure seem to know a lot about him."

   "I have found it advantageous to learn all I can about the people I must 
deal with," said Willa, with just a hint of blushing showing in her face.

   "Yeah, sure."

   {Do you and the captain have dinner often?}

   Looking furtively at Lyta, {It hasn't interfered with my duties, prime minister.}

   Lyta was taken back at the fear expressed in the response. She had known 
Willa from the days when they had interned with Psi Corps. She had always been 
a very hard worker with an almost fanatic attitude toward responsibility, and 
her attention to details was enviable. Her devotion to her duties had 
prevented her from ever developing any kind of relationship with anyone. Her 
friends could be counted on one hand, with a thumb and four fingers left over. 

   Oh, everyone who knew her respected her, and she was as good a workmate as 
one could want, but she had no social life, until now. Willa was a P-13; she 
had been born into Psi Corps. Her abilities had manifested themselves before 
her first birthday. She was the youngest person ever to begin Psi Corps 
training. She never had a mother and father in the conventional sense, only 
instructors and tutors. 

   She was forced to bear several children that were taken from her at birth. 
Somewhere, she has adult children she has never seen. Lyta made a promise to 
turn Earth upside down for them as soon as this upcoming treaty session was 
concluded.

    The others at the table had noted fear in Willa's eyes. Paul and Mark had 
not 'heard' the exchange.

   "Prime minister?" asked Susan.

   "It’s only a honorary title, Susan, I’m only a figurehead, so to speak."

   "Don't believe her for a minute, Susan," said Paul.

   "I don't," replied Susan. "No one defers to a figurehead the way people 
defer to you."

   "If I may be excused, prime minister, I have duties to attend before the 
meetings take place tomorrow," said Willa.

   "Of course, Willa," replied Lyta.

   Lyta had a look of concern on her face.

   "What's the matter, Lee?" asked Paul.

   "I think I unwittingly pulled a John Sheridan," answered Lyta.

   Everyone looked at her with perplexed expressions.

   "Didn't anyone notice anything about the captain's presence?"

   "Like what, Lee?"

   All eyes were on Lyta.

   "Didn't any of you see the way she looked at the captain? Didn't you 
notice where his hands were while he was talking?"

   Their expressions said, "NO!"

   Lyta explained about Willa's background. Disbelief was the expression
looking back at her from her friends, and husband's faces.

   "She’s the most powerful natural telepath I have ever heard of. I asked her 
telepathically if she and the captain have dinner often. She is afraid of 
something."

   "Given your position, that question must be terrifying for her. She must 
think you are questioning her competence," said Susan.

   "Never!" was Lyta's reply. "Susan I was going to suggest that you let Mark 
accompany you on your tour of the station."

   "I accept. You don't mind do you, Mark?"

   "No, ma'am, not at all."

   "Mark, call me Susan."

   Excusing themselves, Lyta and Paul headed toward the ambassador's quarters.

   "Is she going where I think she is going?" asked Mark.

   "Yes. She is going to try undoing a misunderstanding before it can destroy 
someone she likes and respects very much."

   "She makes a great friend."

   "She makes an even worse enemy."

   Finishing their drinks, they got up and left for the unofficial tour.

******************************

   As they approached the ambassador's quarters, Lyta gave Paul the images of 
what she had said to Willa and her response. Paul was confused. There
had been nothing threatening in Lyta's question.

   As they arrived at her door, it opened and they went inside. Willa was 
sitting at a desk just finishing writing something. She turned around and 
handed the sheet of paper to Lyta.

   It was her resignation. It was to become effective upon competition of the
trade talks that were being conducted over the next couple of days.

   {Willa, why?}

   {I am sorry that you feel my relationship with Captain Corwin will
interfere with my judgment. I had believed that I was keeping the situations 
separated. I have tried in the past to not let such things interfere with my 
work. So, if you will excuse me, I do have a number of things to do before the 
meetings.}

   Paul looked at Lyta. She looked like a truck had hit her. The
hurt in her eyes was too obvious, but she said nothing. She simply turned
and left.

   {Willa, you are terribly wrong in your assumptions}, thought Paul. 

******************************

   He left the apartment and followed Lyta, catching up to her in less than 
a minute.

   {Paul. What did I say that was so wrong? All I did was ask a question.}

   {Lee, it isn't the question. It's who is asking.}

   {I don't understand.}

   {Remember your misunderstandings concerning John Sheridan during the
Shadow war and just after, when we were still fighting Earthgov? Well, that's 
what we have here. The difference is that you’re in the position of power. 
When you ask a question about something junior personnel are doing, the 
natural assumption is that the actions in question are wrong.}

   {You mean just by asking her about the dinners with the captain...}

   {Yep, you as much as told her it was wrong and that she shouldn't be doing 
it.}

   {That's not fair, Paul.}

   {I won't argue that it is, but Sheridan said much the same thing twenty 
years ago.}

   {Paul, how do I straighten this out? You know I think the world of Willa 
and that her relationship with the captain is just what they both need.}

   {I know that and you know that, but getting her to believe it will be next 
to impossible. She won't believe a scan. She’ll think you’re faking it.}

   {Let's go see Captain Corwin.}

   {Do you think that will really help?}

   {It can't hurt.}

 ******************************
 
   Ten minutes later, they were in Captain Corwin's office.

   "What can I do for you, prime minister?" asked Captain Corwin.

   "First try calling me Lyta. What I really need is some help from you," 
answered Lyta.

   "I will help if I can. Tell me what you need."

   "I need for you to help me keep Willa in her present position."

   Looking confused, Corwin said, "I don't understand. What would I have to do 
with that?"

   "You have been seeing Willa socially?"

   "We have dinners together, but that is as far as it has gone. Is there a 
problem with that?"

   "None whatsoever. In fact, I think it is great."

   "Then, what is the problem?"

   "I asked her if you and she had dinner often. She misunderstood the 
question."

   "I don't understand, seems like a straightforward question to me. How did 
she misunderstand?"

   "Captain, how much do you know about Willa?"

   "She is your ambassador, she never married, and has never been much of one 
to socialize. We have never really discussed her background. We talk about me 
and mine a great deal. She manages to change the subject when I ask any 
personal questions." 

    "I’m going to tell you about her, then you’ll know why she
misunderstood me."

   Corwin was not really prepared for the onslaught of images that filled his 
mind. He had never been subjected to direct mental contact before.

   "Do you understand now?"

   Corwin nodded, yes.

   "I need you to help me convince her that I truly approve of the present
relationship between the two of you and whatever it might lead to."

   "I had no idea she was a telepath." 

   "Does it make a difference?"

   "No. In fact, what you showed me just makes me love her that much more.
She must be a very strong person."

   "She is. I don't think she can stand the idea of losing you. I do 
understand that feeling."

   "The idea of losing her is not one I like to think about. She’s the first 
woman I have ever seriously considered sharing my life with, my infatuation 
with the then Commander Ivanova not withstanding. I can't make any promises, 
Lyta."

   Paul and Lyta left Captain Corwin's office.

******************************

   As Mark and Susan left the Zocalo, two men watched them go, but they
didn't follow.

   "You used to run this place didn't you?"

   "Yep, I was John's XO and I came back as CO about two years later.”

   "Why didn't you take over from him?"

   "Two reasons. First, I was a brand new junior captain, and while I had 
experience in handling the diplomatic functions at lower levels, I had no 
actual independent command experience. I had always filled in for John. 
Second, I wanted to get a ship and be my own boss, too damned far away for the 
upper command structure to hassle. It was a good move on my part, because when 
the B-5 CO position became available again, I was the most qualified captain 
in Earthforce to take the job."

   "You’ve had a very distinguished career, Susan. I’m sure your family must 
be very proud of you." Mark noticed a pained look in her eyes when
he said that.

   "I’m sure they would be, Mark, if I had a family."

   "I’m sorry. I didn't mean to open old wounds."

   "No need to apologize, Mark. You couldn't have known."

   Mark kept asking questions about Susan's experiences and adventures. He
never spoke of himself, and he listened closely to her every answer.

   They had been wandering around the station for the better part of two hours 
when Susan said, "Mark, I’m getting just a bit hungry."

   "Now that you mention it, so am I."

   At this time, they stopped and took a check on their bearings. They were in 
one of the gardens that were located about B-5. Mark sat down on a bench and 
Susan followed.

   "These gardens were a prima idea. The planners were thinking right when 
they included them."

   "Mark, what do you do? Lyta said you were an engineer. What kind of 
engineer are you?"

   Looking uncomfortable, Mark said, "I’m sorry, Susan. I’m not allowed to 
talk about it."

   Looking surprised, Susan said, "I understand." She knew that trade secrets 
were every bit as valuable as any military secret, maybe even more so.

   Mark changed the subject back to Susan. She had noticed this some time ago. 
[This guy doesn't like to talk about himself.]

   {That's true. I’m not very interesting.}

   Susan gasped, "You scanned me."

   {No I didn't. You actually projected the thought. You’re an untrained 
latent telepath, but you do have some ability to project; however, it does 
require another telepath to be listening.}

   "Did Lyta put you up to this?"

   {Up to what?}

   "You're my 'babysitter'."

   {No, I’m not. Lyta asked me to escort you so you could get rid of the 
security people. She knows you don't like to be coddled. She said that after 
meeting you, I didn't have to do it if I didn't want to. She even figured you 
might say no, in the first place. Personally, I’m happy you didn't.}

   “You remind me of Paul. Also, please answer verbally.”

   “How so?”

   “You are considerate, honest and good-looking. That’s not a bad
combination.”

   “I’m me. What you see is what you get.”

   Susan had never talked about herself so much to anyone before. She
hated to admit it, but Mark was beginning to appeal to her. She was
struck by how much he reminded her of Marcus. She had been severely
disappointed to find out about Marcus's feelings for her, only after he
had married someone else. She had never taken him seriously. She
realized that her career would have kept them apart anyway.

   “A credit for your thoughts.”

   “I was just thinking of someone I used to know.”

   Unconsciously, Susan had moved closer to Mark. Mark had noticed, big time.

   “Weren't there any others over the years that caught your eye?”

   “No. After losing Marcus, I just avoided any situation that could
develop into anything. Do you know what they call me behind my back?”

   “No.”

   “I’m the 'Ice Queen'.”

   “I'll take your word for it. What do you think of this garden? The plant 
layout and such?”

   “I hadn't thought about it very much. The arrangement is pleasing in a 
relaxing sort of way. For some reason, it seems to be soothing. I like the 
variety of smells, soft and lingering with some sharp bittersweet odors in the 
background. It’s a good stress reliever.”

   “Susan, I’m getting hungrier. Shall we get something to eat?”

   His change of subject caught her completely off guard. “Yes.”

   Mark got up and offered her his hand. She took it and got up; however, she 
didn't let go of his hand.

   “Where do you want to go to eat?”

   “Earheart's.”

   They were observed as they left the garden. Upon arriving at Earheart's, 
they were immediately shown to the best table in the house. The proprietor had 
recognized Susan.

   "Have you ever eaten here, Mark?"

   "No. This is only the second time I have been on B-5 since Lyta freed us 
from the Shadow implants. I have never eaten in any of the restaurants on the 
station.”

   "You’ll like the food. It used to be about the best on B-5."

   As they talked over drinks and hors d'oeuvres, they noticed the captain, 
who was wearing civilian clothes, and Willa Armstead arriving. They motioned 
the waiter to convey an offer to share their table with him and his guest. The 
captain accepted.

   After being seated, the captain ordered drinks for himself and Willa.

   "It's nice to see you out and about, captain," said Susan.

   "I don’t do this very often, admiral. This is the first time Miss Armstead 
and I have had dinner in a public place. How is your station tour doing?"

   "Very well. Mark has been excellent company; and captain, please call me
Susan. I’m not the admiral tonight."

   Willa, noticing the way Susan looked at Mark and spoke of him, {She
likes you, Mark.}

   {No she doesn't. She’s only being civil for appearance sake. I haven't
let her talk about anything but herself all day.}

   "I take it, you didn't have any problems like Lyta did?"

   "No. We had a nice quiet tour and a short stop in the main garden. I bored 
Mark to death with stories about my career. Fortunately, he’s a good listener."

   "Have you known the ambassador very long, captain?" asked Mark.

   "Ever since I took command. She was already assigned here as your
ambassador."

   Dinner arrived, and as Susan had promised, it was outstanding. The
conversation had been pleasant and personal in a friendly manner, just friends 
getting together and swapping gossip and stories.

   As the captain and Willa said good night and departed, Susan said, "John 
and Delenn all over again.”

   "I don't understand the comparison, Susan."

   "During the Shadow/Vorlon War, Captain 'Star Killer' Sheridan fell in
love with the Minbari ambassador. It took them two years to finally get
things moved to a point that they married. They courted one another and
fought several wars at the same time."

   "Oh."

******************************

   Susan and Mark left Earheart's and headed for her quarters. At her door,
Susan turned to Mark and asked, "Come in for a nightcap?"

   “I'm not sure that's appropriate.”

   “Mark, in case you didn't notice, I’m a big girl now. Besides, you need
to stay until I can get security back.”

   Walking into Susan's quarters, “Okay, but only until security gets
here.”

   Susan made weak drinks and handed one to Mark. She sat down on the
other end of the couch, which was much to close for Mark's comfort.

******************************

   They had arrived at the door to the captain's quarters, and they had traded 
small talk as usual.

   "Will you come in for awhile, Willa?"

   "I can't do that, captain. It would cause talk."

   "Except for tonight, we have always had dinner in your quarters with your 
aide present. If I didn't know better, I would think you don't trust me."

     "We have been over this before. Trust has nothing to do with it. I will 
promise that after the negotiations are finished, I will use your first name 
and will share a nightcap with you. Is that fair enough?"

   Looking a little disappointed, the captain said, "Yes. Let me accompany you 
to your quarters."

   They made the walk in silence. At her door, Corwin bade Willa goodnight and 
returned to his quarters. Willa already knew that Lyta and Paul were inside. 
She entered her quarters and went straight to her bedroom. She did not say 
anything to Lyta or Paul.

   Willa took a shower and prepared to go to bed. She was hurting inside, but 
she could shield her feelings even from a P-12. In the front room, Lyta was 
well aware of Willa's feelings. Paul couldn't sense them.

   Lyta had been the closest thing to a friend that Willa had when she was a 
youngster in Psi Corps. Willa didn't know that Lyta actually thought of her as 
her friend. Willa’s years in the corps had taught her that when a superior 
questioned something you were doing, you were in big trouble. The Psi Corps 
testing never showed her to be more than a P-7. She was strong enough and 
smart enough to fool the testing personnel. They occasionally had glimpses of 
her true abilities, but never anything that could be confirmed, but it hadn’t 
prevented her being used in Psi Corps’ breeding program.

   {Willa, talk to me, please?}

   {Why? You made it plain that you didn't want me pursuing a relationship 
with the captain.}

   {Willa, I thought we were friends.}

   {We were.}

   {Have you talked with Captain Corwin since this afternoon?}

   {Yes.}

   {What did you talk about?}

   {I don't think that is any of your business.}

   {Willa, anything that hurts my friends is my business.}

   {We were friends. The operative word is ‘were’, past tense. Anything that I 
feel is none of your business anymore.}

   {Willa, you have been my friend for more than fifty years. I will not let 
it go. I don't think for a minute that any relationship you might have with 
Dave Corwin could possibly have any effect on how you do your job. You need 
this relationship. He needs it too.}

   {If you didn't disapprove, why did you question me about it?}

   {I was only curious. It hurts very much to think you believed I
would do anything to harm you. Other than Delenn Sheridan, you were the only 
other person I have ever considered a real friend, until I rescued the 
telepaths the Shadows had tried to use in their ships. Susan Ivanova is an 
acquaintance. She never really trusted me. She probably doesn't
really trust me now.}

   {The captain invited me into his quarters again tonight.}

   {Why didn't you go? Why do you always call him captain? David is his first 
name. He prefers Dave.}

   {Titles are a good way to keep people at arm's length.}

   {Willa, the captain wants very much to hold you, but up close and personal 
is what he really wants.}

   {That's what I am afraid of.}

   {Why?}

   {You know that Psi Corps forced me to bear children. What you don't know is 
that I was impregnated artificially. I don't know who the fathers of my 
children were. I don't know if my children were boys or girls. I never saw any 
of them.}

   {Willa, yes, I did know. I’m so sorry for you, but that is in the past. 
Nothing we can do will change what was. We can change what will be, by making 
choices now.}

   {Lyta. I have never been with a man. I have never wanted to be with a man 
until I met Captain Corwin. I don't mean for sex. I just feel good when I’m 
with him.}

   {Are you afraid of what it will be like?}

   {Yes. I don't have any experience. I’m afraid of disappointing him.}

   {Don't be. Paul had no experience when we met. It didn't stop us from 
having a good relationship and after twenty years it is even better than when 
it first started.}

   {I'll have to think about it.} Without warning, Willa felt waves of 
pleasure wash over her. It was sheer ecstasy.

   {That is just a taste of what it can be like.}

   Willa was asleep in five minutes. She dreamed very vividly. Lyta shared her 
dreams and knew that things would work out for the better.

   {Not bad, Lee. You are getting better.} Paul felt a sharp pain as Lyta 
elbowed him in the ribs.

******************************

   In Ivanova's quarters, Mark was nursing his drink while Ivanova explained 
to him why she never married. He realized that maybe Susan used the 'Ice 
Queen' persona to keep people at a distance. By her own admissions, most of 
the people she had loved had died rather tragically. The only exception seemed 
to have been Marcus, but since he had fallen in love with and married someone 
else, she didn't really count him.

   Susan was looking at him intensely. She knew he was a telepath, so he 
expected her to keep a tight rein on her feelings. He could sense the 
emotional turmoil going on within her. She wanted more than a nightcap; 
however, she wouldn't start anything that didn't have commitment written all 
over it - and she was terrified of a commitment. It was difficult to imagine 
someone who had been through what she had experienced over the years being 
afraid of anything.

   "Do you want to discuss it?"

   "Discuss what?"

   "You’re boiling with emotions. Do you want to discuss them?"

   "No. They’re none of your business."

   "Thanks for the dinner, company, and the drink." Mark walked over to the 
communications panel, "Security?"

   "This is security; go ahead."

   "Would you send the guards to Admiral Ivanova's quarters, please."

   "They are on their way, sir."

   Mark walked over to one of the two chairs and sat down.

   "Why, Mark?"

   "It's none of your business."

   Susan was taken aback by the answer, and the sharpness of tone with which 
it was delivered. "I see." It was the first time in almost two decades that 
someone had treated her that way. She realized she didn't like her own 
medicine.

   The doorbell chimed to announce the arrival of the security guards. After
acknowledgment to the admiral, they took up their stations.

   As Mark walked to the door, he never looked back. {It isn't much fun having 
a door slammed in your face; is it, admiral?}

   As the door closed behind him, Susan went to the bar and made a very stiff 
drink, [damned, damned, damned.] She had managed to do it again.

******************************

   Willa came out of her bedroom and was greeted by Lyta. {Good morning, we 
have been invited to have breakfast with Captain Corwin}.

   They were having breakfast in the staff dining room. Lyta and Paul were
sitting across from Willa and the captain. Admiral Ivanova walked into the 
dining room and was invited to share the table.

   "Good morning, captain," she said acknowledging the others presence.

   "Susan, how did your tour go yesterday?" asked Lyta.

   "I had an excellent time. We even had dinner with the captain and Willa."

   Captain Corwin asked, "Where is Mark this morning?”

   Lyta answered, "He went back to Epsilon III last night."

   Susan asked, "How? There weren't any shuttles to the planet last night."

   "It wasn't scheduled. He used my personal shuttle. He wanted to get some
rest before going to work this morning. His reason for being here has been 
completed," answered Lyta.

   "Oh. I had wanted to talk to him before he left," answered Susan. "Captain,
what is the new schedule for the Narns and Centauris?"

   "For one thing, Emperor Mollari and First Minister G’Kar are not coming to 
Babylon 5 after all. They’ll be meeting either on the Whitestar Alpha or 
Epsilon III."

   "Why the change?"

   "Security considerations. There is evidence that there will be an
assassination attempt on them if they come aboard the station. The alternative 
options rule that out."

   "Lyta?"

   "That's the plan, Susan. We can guarantee their safety."

   "Just how are you going to do that?"

   "We have complete control over whom we allow on Epsilon III. Besides, on a 
planet full of telepaths you would have to be mentally deficient to even think 
about it. Remember, on Epsilon III, the usual rules governing telepaths and 
scanning don't apply."

   "I didn't know that."

   Lyta smiled at that remark.

   They finished breakfast and the gathering broke up as each person went
about taking of the day's activities.

   “Lyta, who is going to be present for the meeting between Londo and G’Kar?”

   “Only me, my advisors and their aides, Captain Corwin and you. Don't you
want to go? I thought the chance to pull Londo's leg one more time would be 
irresistible to you.”

   “It does have its appeal. Will I get a chance to talk to Mark?”

   “That's up to him.”

******************************

   "Captain, the Centauri flagship is coming through the jump gate," said
Commander Wilcox.

   "Park’em over next to the Whitestar. Do the same with the Narns, Sally."

   "Yes, sir."

   "Captain, we are being hailed by the Centauri; it's the emperor."

   "Put it through to my office."

   "Good morning, Emperor Mollari."

   "Ahh, captain, good morning to you. I see G’Kar is late as usual."

   "The Narns should be arriving shortly, your highness."

   "Ah yes, here they are now."

   "Captain, the Narn flagship is here"

   "Acknowledged, commander."

   "Captain, I was informed that you wished to change the location of the 
treaty signing."

   "Yes, your highness, but it wasn't my idea."

   "Captain, First Minister G’Kar is asking to speak with you. Sir."

   [Asking? Since when did heads of state ever ‘ask' for anything?]

   "Put him through and tie the circuits together."

   "Captain, who is responsible for the changing of our plans?" demanded
G’Kar.

   "First Minister, emperor, the change has been orchestrated by the prime 
minister of Epsilon III. There is concern about security aboard Babylon 5 and 
how that impacts your safety."

   Both Londo and G’Kar tried to talk at once. "Just who does he think he is," 
demanded both men.

   "It's not a he. It's a she."

   "She!!!" exclaimed both men at once.

   "When did Epsilon III get a prime minister?" asked both men in unison.

   "Gentlemen, apparently your ambassadors have not kept your governments
advised of the changing situations. Epsilon III is becoming a very influential 
force in interstellar business."

   "Captain, we have no Epsilon III embassy or representative on Narn," stated 
G’Kar.

   "The same is true of Centauri Prime, captain."

   "I am sorry gentlemen, but that isn't really any of my business. I can put
you in touch with her if you wish."

   "I wish," came from both men.

   The captain punched a few buttons and transferred the incoming signals to
Willa's quarters.

   "Good morning, gentlemen," said Willa. "What can I do for you?"

   In a demanding voice, before G’Kar could get a word in edgeways, Londo 
demanded, "Who is responsible for changing the itinerary, without consulting 
us?"

   Stepping into the camera's area of view, Lyta said, "I am."

   "Who are you?" asked both men.

   "For someone who propositioned me, you gents have short memories."

   G’Kar spoke first, "Lyta Alexander. I remember you. You still look like you 
did when I first met you."

   "Baa, G’Kar, you old fool, that can't be her. She would be sixty by now."

   "Londo, I can still give you a nightmare that will keep you screaming for 
the rest of your life."

   "It is her, but I still think it is a trick of some sort."

   "I want to see both of you alone on the Whitestar in a about half an hour."

   Both men mentally noted that it wasn't a request. The tone of voice was
what in effect made it an order. Neither man had taken an order from anyone in 
almost twenty years. Their interest was showing on their faces.

   {Do you want me to come? I have never been aboard your ship.}

   {Bring your aide.}

   Willa had noticed that Lyta gave orders to everyone, as if anything else
never occurred to her. Even when she asked, it came out as an order. [No 
wonder I misunderstood her question about the dinners with David.]

   Aboard the whitestar, Willa's aide made drinks for Londo and G’Kar.

   "Gentlemen, will you join me for a snack and a drink?" asked Lyta.

   Both men looked surprised, but they sat down and looked at Lyta with 
questions in their eyes.

   As the aide served the snacks and drinks, Lyta began talking. "I will be
short and to the point. I have information that makes me believe there is to 
be a major effort to kill both of you today. There are apparently some 
factions on both sides that think another war between you would be very 
profitable. Other factions on both sides see an opportunity for revenge and 
justice. I can see how they might feel that way, but we all know that scenario 
hasn't worked in the past and has even less chance of working now. I will make 
the data available to both of you for inspection and analysis. If you don't 
agree with our conclusions, I will drop plans to have this meeting on Epsilon 
III."

   "Just what makes you think Epsilon III is any safer than Babylon 5?" 
demanded Londo.

   Lyta looked at G’Kar. The same question was written all over his face.

   "We have complete control of who comes and goes from the planet. We
telepathically scan everyone who is allowed to come there. It is impossible to 
get to the planet's surface without being destroyed by the planetary defenses, 
except in the main city, and entry there is by invitation only."

   "I refuse to be scanned!" yelled both simultaneously.

   "You won't be. Londo, G’Kar, you and your personal aides won't be scanned. 
Your purpose for being here is too important to allow anything to go wrong. 
You are also going to be briefed on matters that are sure to impact both your 
societies."

   "This briefing, it concerns the treaty, yes?" drawled Londo.

   "Very much so. While I’m at it, I want you to meet Willa Armstead. She is
our ambassador to Babylon 5, and an old personal friend of mine. She deals 
with both of your ambassadors on the station. I’m surprised you were 
completely unaware of Epsilon III's rise in politics and trade.”

   "It seems that you have managed to do so with very little attention being
paid," commented G’Kar.

   "Yes, you are a stealthy society," drawled Londo.

   "Didn't we help both of you deal with some Shadow leftovers?"

   Both men nodded yes.

   "Shall we adjourn to the planet and get down to serious business?"

   They nodded assent.

******************************

   They arrived in Lyta's shuttle, so there were no customs inspections or
immigration checks.

   Lyta led the way straight to the briefing room. It would serve for the 
treaty signing. Susan and Captain Corwin were already there.

   The briefing was conducted by Lyta's head of interplanetary security who 
also doubled as leader of the rangers. She covered all they had learned about 
the Drakh and several of the species working with them. There was a separate 
briefing concerning the threats that the Drakh and their allies presented to 
the Narn regime and Centauri republic. Londo and G’Kar asked
many questions. It was obvious to both men that close cooperation between 
their respective worlds was a must.

   "You were singled out for these briefings because your governments are the 
best prepared to fight this menace," said Lyta.

   With her last statement, the Earthmen and Lyta's people left G’Kar, Londo
and their aides to hammer out some fine details of the treaty.

******************************

   “Susan, will you accompany Willa and me on a little tour?”

   “Sure. Where’re we going?”

   “I want you to see something in our medical facility.” With that, she 
started walking at a brisk pace. Willa and Susan had trouble keeping up. Ten 
minutes later, they were standing in a room in a very restricted part of the 
medical facility. Dr. Franklin was explaining to Susan what she was seeing. 
What she was seeing were the isochambers holding John and Delenn Sheridan.

   “I thought they were killed.”

   “No. I finally found a way to extend John's life beyond what Lorien gave 
him.”

   Susan's jaw dropped just a bit. “How, did you do it?”

   Lyta explained about the triluminaries. “Now, it's my turn. If it can be
done, would want your life extended knowing you will remain youthful right up 
until the end?”

   “I have to think about it.”

   “Before you leave the planet, I’m going to put blocks in place. You won't
remember any of this. So think it about now, but don't take too long.”

   Susan was having trouble absorbing what she was seeing and hearing. “When 
will you do this to me?”

   “When it is time.”

   [Hell of an answer.]

   “I know.”

   “What the hell, no balls, no blue chips. Count me in Lyta.”

   As they were leaving the medical facility, Mark walked up to them. He
looked at Susan and said, "You wanted to talk?"

   "Yes."

   “Susan, Willa and I will see you back at the briefing room.” Lyta and Willa 
walked away.

   "It's your turn."

   "Mark, I owe you a sincere apology. I acted badly last night. I have been
able to function all these years by keeping people at a distance. Many are the 
times I have regretted it. I would like to try again."

   "Look me up the next time you’re on Epsilon III."

   "I had hoped you might escort me to the dinner tonight."

   "Thanks for the invitation, but I have other commitments."

   Susan did not show the disappointment that she felt. She followed 
directions and found herself back at the briefing room just as Lyta and
Willa were returning.

   “Did your talk with Mark go well?”

   “As well as could be expected.”

   “Is he coming to the dinner tonight?”

   “No. He has other commitments, but we have a date for the next time I’m on 
the planet.” 

   If she had known how long that would be...

******************************

   They were just entering the briefing room as G’Kar and Londo were coming 
back in. Susan had enjoyed the tour and had been fascinated by the things that 
were being developed. She didn't remember the visit to John's and Delenn's 
room; and if questioned, she couldn't tell anyone anything specific about what 
she did remember seeing.

   They had bickered for two hours, but finally were emerging from their
meeting. One of the hang-ups had been the request that Epsilon III be allowed 
to recruit personnel from their worlds.

   "G’Kar, this will most likely be our last meeting. You will have to deal
with my successor," said Londo.

   "Mollari, he can't be any worse than you. Who is he?" asked G’Kar.

   "Vir Cotto."

   "Mollari, I like him."

   Looking at G’Kar, "Ah ha, as the Humans would say, hell just froze over."

   "Your highness, first minister, will you be attending the state dinner on
Babylon 5?" asked Lyta.

   "I would enjoy that," answered Londo.

   "I will attend," said G’Kar.

   "I’ll take you back to your ships," said Lyta.

   "Are you going to attend?" asked G’Kar.

   "Of course," answered Lyta. "Gentlemen, if you’ll follow me."

   "You use our titles now. Why?" asked Londo.

   "As of today you have earned them," answered Lyta.

******************************

   Back in her quarters, Susan received a gold channel communication from 
Earth Alliance Headquarters. "I am sorry Susan, but the Roanoke must depart 
immediately in order to rendezvous with the transport ship Bullway. You will 
transfer to the Bullway for return to Earth. I know it screws up your plans, 
but it can't be helped. An emergency has come up and the Roanoke is
the nearest destroyer in the area."

   "Admiral Brown, please hold for one minute?" replied Susan.

   "C&C, this Admiral Ivanova. Locate the captain for me ASAP."

   "What do you need, admiral?" asked Captain Corwin, looking off screen at 
Willa.

   "David, something has come up and I must leave immediately. I am sorry, 
please accept my sincerest apologies."

   "David, why don't you ask Lyta for assistance," asked Willa?

   Captain Corwin nodded.

   {Lyta!}

   {Willa, you don't have to yell.}

   Willa relayed the conversation to her.

   {Susan, all you need is a ride back to Earth?}

   {Yes. I am not involved with the new orders.}

   {I have something to take care of on Earth anyway. You can go with me. The 
Whitestar Alpha will be safe enough.}

   In Susan’s quarters, "Robert, my old friend Lyta Blaine will transport me 
and my aide back to Earth in Whitestar Alpha."

   "Will it be safe?"

   "Safer than a squadron of cruisers."

   "You are authorized to return by that means. Just check in when you get 
here."

******************************

   "I want to thank you for the added security forces, Lyta," said Captain 
Corwin.

   "My pleasure captain. We can't afford any problems tonight."

   Emperor Mollari was approaching Lyta and the captain. "You look absolutely 
stunning, prime minister. Good evening, captain."

   "Your highness, please call me Mrs. Blaine this evening. This evening 
belongs to you, First Minister G’Kar, and Captain Corwin."

   "You are too kind."

   "Yes, she is," said a fast approaching G’Kar.

   "G’Kar, you need a drink," said Mollari. "No, make that two drinks."

   "Just what I have come to expect from a Centauri, alcohol for everything."

   "Have you two decided who gets to speak first," asked Lyta? "Or should I 
flip a credit chip?"

   "He can go first," said Londo.

   G’Kar nodded acceptance.

   Admiral Ivanova was approaching the group; she was in her best full dress 
uniform. "Good evening ladies and gentlemen."

   "Admiral, would you care for a drink," asked a server.

   "Vodka on the rocks, please."

   "Lyta, Willa, you aren't drinking tonight?"

   "Susan, would you really want a pair of drunk high powered telepaths on 
your hands," asked Lyta?

   "No, I don't think so."

   About a half an hour later, everyone was seated and Captain Corwin was 
doing introductions of the honored guests. G’Kar and Londo gave speeches that 
were first class by anyone's standards. Their long years of hard work had 
finally borne the fruit that both knew would help bury their planet's 
animosity toward one another. Following the speeches, Susan made a formal 
presentation of David's first star and a new coat complete with his new 
stripes of rank to go with it. There was much applause at the end of those
ceremonies.

   The dinner went off without a hitch. Only security knew that a dozen men 
bent on killing the principals were arrested without incident. The data that 
Vir had sent to Lyta had proved to be very accurate.

   "Susan, when do you want to leave for Earth?" asked Lyta.

   "Can you give me a day or so? I want to meet with some of the other 
ambassadors before I leave. The change of orders for the Roanoke gives me time 
I wouldn't have had otherwise."

   "Just let me know when. I won't need but two hours notice."

   "Is that the Whitestar Alpha parked between the Narn and Centauri 
flagships?"

   "Yes."

   Walking over to the captain and Willa, "I’m going to call it a night, I'll 
see you tomorrow, Willa."

   {Goodnight, don't wait up for me.}

   {Never entered my mind.}

   "She knows, doesn't she, Willa," said David.

   "Of course. Nobody can keep secrets from her."

******************************

   Willa and David are standing in front of his quarters.

   "Will you come in for a nightcap?"

   "I thought you'd never ask."

   "People will talk," said the admiral.

   "I can live with it, if you can," came the reply.

   As they entered his quarters, David removed his coat and hung it in the 
closet. Turning around he said, "I'll make us drinks," walked to the bar and 
put his hat on it.

   Willa walked up behind him, "David?"

   As he turned, she put her arms around his neck and kissed him. He was 
instantly awash in conflicting emotions, desire, apprehension, surprise, 
pleasure, and nervousness all at once. Willa was caught up in his emotional 
responses.

   Pulling away from him, "David, what about the drinks?"

   [Drinks???] "Drinks?"

   Willa kissed him again and any thought of anything else vanished. Corwin 
had not been with a woman in a number of years. This one was soft, smelled so 
good and wanted him.  He pulled away long enough to say, "I don't do one night 
stands."

   Breathing heavily, Willa responded, "Neither do I."

******************************

   In Willa's quarters, Lyta was on the communications system with a tired 
looking Bester. "Alfred, I’ll becoming to Earth within a few days. I want you 
to locate these people if possible. I’m going to want to meet them. I want it 
to be a surprise for Willa."

   "Okay, but we haven't been able to get rid of all the shadow sympathizers. 
Many of them did nothing illegal. It may not be safe here for you."

     "Point taken; however, I’ll be there in a few days."

******************************

   "Willa, David, have a seat and have some breakfast," said Lyta.

   They took a seat and ordered breakfast. Both looked very rested and relaxed.

   "Willa, I’m going to take Susan back to Earth in a day or so. Will you come 
with me?"

   "Any particular reason?"

   "Actually, yes. I have a project started and I need your
assistance."

   "What kind of project?"

   "I can't talk about it yet. There are some things I must
attend first."

   "I’m at your disposal."

   "Will you be gone long?" asked David.

   "Less than a week, unless we run into delays and I’m not expecting any of 
those," responded Lyta.

   They finished breakfast while discussing the dinner of the previous night. 
As they were finishing, Susan came in, sat down, and ordered a light breakfast.

   "Lyta, it will take me at least two days to finish my business here. Does 
the delay impinge on your schedule?" asked Susan.

   "No. In fact, it allows me to get prepared for the Earth visit."

******************************

   The communications panel in Willa's quarters announced, "Call for Lyta 
Blaine from Admiral Ivanova."

   "Go ahead," said Lyta.

   "I’m ready to leave whenever you are, Lyta," said Susan.

   "I’ll meet you in docking bay six in one hour."

   Susan was waiting in the docking bay when Willa and Lyta arrived.

   "Is that your shuttle, Lyta?" asked Susan. "It’s beautiful."

   "Let's get aboard and get the show on the road.”

   The shuttle arrived in the whitestar’s shuttle bay in short order.

   "The shuttle has artificial gravity, doesn't it," asked Susan

   {Yes. This way to the bridge.} Lyta led Willa and Susan to the bridge of 
the Whitestar. There was no one there.

   {Where is the crew?} wondered Willa.

   {I’m it.}

   “Lyta, how do you run this thing?”

   “Like I said, it's my ship.”

   The ship was already moving toward the jump gate at a fast speed. In fact, 
it was much faster than other ships. The jump gate opened and Whitestar Alpha 
shot through it.

   “How long until we reach Earth?”

   “About six standard hours.”

   Susan just stared at Lyta.

   “How fast is this ship?”

   “Fast, very. Come on, I'll show you the wardroom and we can have lunch.”

   They sat eating lunch, not talking much. Without any warning, Susan and 
Willa could see hyperspace as if they were outside the ship. They almost fell 
out of their chairs.

   “Lyta!”

   “You’re seeing what the sensors see.”

   “Lyta, how?”

   “The ship and I are sort of one, something like the Shadows, but without 
implants. Somewhat more sophisticated than the Vorlons, but essentially the 
same.

   “Aren't you running a risk showing this to me?”

   “No.”

   The rest of the trip was uneventful. The ship exited hyperspace in 
synchronous Earth orbit and identified itself.

   The shuttle landed at the Earthdome spaceport area and Admiral Ivanova 
thanked Lyta and bade her farewell.

   {Come on Willa, we have a meeting with Alfred.}

   {Is it really necessary that I accompany you?}

   {You’re the reason we’re here.}

   {Have I done something wrong?} Willa was feeling uneasy. She had escaped 
Psi Corps more than twenty years ago, but she would still be listed as a rogue.

   {No. I think you are going to enjoy this visit.}

   Willa could not begin to imagine what her friend meant, but she doubted 
that there was anything about Psi Corps she could enjoy.

   Twenty minutes later, they were in Bester's office.

   {Lyta, Willa, welcome. Lyta, I found what you wanted. They are in the 
conference room.}

   {Thanks Alfred. Willa follow me.}

   Willa followed Lyta out of the office and down the hallway and into a 
meeting room.

   Entering the room, Lyta nodded to the men and women sitting there. They 
nodded back. {Ladies, gentlemen, I know you’re wondering what this is all 
about. Well, it’s about you and my friend, Willa. Would you please be kind 
enough to introduce yourselves to my friend?}

   The three women and two men, all in their early to middle thirties did so.

   {Do any of you know what you have in common besides being telepaths?}

   One of the women, dressed as a psi cop, shook her head, {No, ma'am, to the 
best of our knowledge we have nothing in common.}

   Lyta shook her head. {That is not entirely true. All of you are, in fact, 
half brothers and sisters.}

   The men and women looked at one another in amazement.

   From one of the men, {Ma'am what makes you think this?}

   {Mr. Bester summoned you here because of the fact that you all have one 
parent in common.}

   The looks on their faces showed that the information had literally stunned 
them.

   {Willa.}

   {No.}

   {Yes.}

   Willa sat down. She was in shock. It just couldn't be.

   {Ma'am}, the psi cop inquired, {are you my mother?}

   Lyta explained what had happened to them and Willa at their births. As she 
walked out of the room, Lyta let them know she would be in Bester's office.

   {How did they take it?}

   {Better than I would have.}

     *******************************

part 3

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