No stories or pieces of artwork are meant to
infringe upon the copyright held by J. Michael Straczynski, Babylonian Inc. or
Time Warner Productions.
“It’s been a while since I was here last!” Marcus
stated to no one in particular. Awed, he stared at the impressive architectural
structures and felt relieved to be back in Tuzanor. Neroon had excused himself
the moment the shuttle had landed to find and talk to Eliet. The rest of their
trip had been uneventful and he had enjoyed the rest.
Quickly, Marcus moved through the hallways and
smiled as he spotted Master Durhann in the distance who was apparently waiting
for him. The ranger was surprised to see that the older Minbari was leaning
heavily on a wooden staff. Delenn had told him that the teacher was
incapacitated, but she had given him no details.
“Marcus, it is good that you came so quickly!”
Durhann said welcoming his former student, “Your future students are eager to
start practice!”
“Master Durhann,” Marcus replied and bowed
respectfully, “I didn’t know you were so seriously injured.”
“I do not want to discuss my injury,” the Minbari
stated and hid his embarrassment, hoping no one would tell Marcus what had
caused the injury in the first place. “ I will take you to the training
facility and introduce you to the trainees,” he remarked, and then peeked at
the ranger, “Is it true that Alit Neroon accompanied you here?”
“Yes,” Marcus replied, “And Neroon is rather eager
to speak to Eliet.”
“The young warrior who joined us recently. I chided
Eliet for doing so without Neroon’s approval.”
“Does he need Neroon’s
permission then?” Marcus wondered.
Durhann could only walk slowly as they moved through
the corridors and was grateful Marcus adopted his pace. “Eliet should have.
They have spoken the holy vows and need to consider the other’s need. Eliet
acted selfishly in ignoring Neroon’s wishes.”
“True,” Marcus had to admit. As they turned around
the corner they suddenly faced several Minbari and human trainees, who were
working hard to gain a feel for the wooden Denn’boks used for practice.
“I look forward to assisting you,” he told the older
Minbari and studied the young men and women who were going through grueling
training sequences.
//If only Susan were here,// he thought saddened,
//Then it would have been perfect.//
“Eliet!” Neroon exclaimed in frustration as he
finally discovered his lover in the gardens.
Eliet immediately turned around and took in Neroon’s
annoyed expression. He realized he should have handled joining the Anla’Shok
differently, but Neroon would never have agreed to it.
Neroon was momentarily taken aback seeing the vigor
in Eliet’s eyes. They reflected determination and true passion.
“I knew you would come for me,” Eliet whispered
miserably. This confrontation was making him nervous.
“Why not ask for my advice?” Neroon wanted to know
as he circled his lover. He disliked seeing Eliet in this training outfit. His
lover should be proudly wearing a warrior uniform instead!
“You would never have agreed to this!” Eliet replied
in a calm tone.
“So you decide to use my absence to come here behind
my back?” Neroon thundered, doing his utmost to stay in control of his anger.
“Neroon, we shouldn’t quarrel over this. I accepted
my calling as you did yours many cycles ago,” he said in a soft tone.
“But why the Anla’Shok?” Neroon shook his head. “You
are a splendid warrior!” Staring into Eliet’s dark eyes he discovered a new
fire burning there, burning with a startling
intensity. Eliet’s mind was set and nothing he did would change that…
“You won’t return to Yedor with me,” Neroon knew.
Eliet smiled instead and wrapped a hesitant arm
around Neroon’s shoulders. “You will accept this if you really love me.”
“You =know= I love you!” Neroon chided him.
“Yes, I do,” Eliet admitted and realized he had won
this fight. “And because of that love you will respect my decision, " he
added hopefully.
Annoyed, Neroon growled his answer. “I always knew
you were stubborn, but…”
“I only have to stay here for one cycle, Neroon and
then we will find a way to be together again… Maybe you will need a liaison
onboard your war cruiser? The Anla’Shok are good at what they do…” Eliet said seductively.
“One cycle?” Neroon repeated, knowing further
resistance was useless. “Then I will agree to this absurd undertaking of yours,
but… reluctantly.” Answering Eliet’s eager embrace he pulled the younger
Minbari close to his chest and grinned.
A startling silence had descended onto Carolyn’s
room after Al had told her about Jenkins, the ghost-like apparition of Stephen
Walters and Martin’s message. Stunned, she simply sat there, staring at a lover
who had turned into a stranger. She trembled as she eventually addressed him.
“Al,” she sighed depressed, “And now you’re the new
resistance leader? You? For some reason I can only picture you in a psi cop
uniform and not like this…” She had never seen him out of uniform and he looked
different now he had accepted his past. A gentle smile graced her features as
his fingers interlaced with hers. The physical contact strengthened the
telepathic exchange and she became aware of his doubts.
“I had no other choice,” Al remarked, still trying
to accept that Carolyn had returned to him. Her eyes radiated a familiar love
and it still baffled Al that it was aimed at him. “I’ve been so lonely without
your company,” he admitted, “I never realized how much I loved you till I found
you onboard that ship. I couldn’t accept the fact that the Shadows had taken
over your mind forever…”
Carolyn shifted in her bed and wondered about the
man sitting in front of her. “At least we can be together this way. Psi Corps
can no longer keep us apart!”
“I still don’t understand why you love me,” Al
whispered, sensing the depth of her affection for him, “Why did you fall in
love with a psi cop? You, a Blip?” Now that he was no longer hooked up to an IV
he had sneaked out of his room to be with her.
Carolyn grinned hearing his question and ignored it.
There was something more urgent on her mind. “But this plan of yours is absurd,
Al. You don’t know what’s like to have those implants in your mind… It was dark
in my mind…” she remembered and shivered violently. “It will end up controlling
you! You can’t go through with this!” Her eyes darted wildly and she tightened
her hold on his hand. “You’ll be a father soon. Our daughter needs a father! I
need you!” she pleaded with him.
“Carolyn, darling,” he whispered saddened, “=You=
off all people know how it feels to be part of… this technology. Out there are
hundreds, maybe even thousands telepaths who will go through the same ordeal if
we don’t stop them. They will all die... "
“But why does it have to be you?” Carolyn fought the
tears which had formed in her eyes. “I don’t want to lose you again!”
“I know, darling,” Al replied, “But I can’t look the
other way and let them die. You and the baby are alive and I have to protect
the two of you =and= all the others.” He suddenly noticed her watered eyes and
hated himself for doing this to her. She deserved happiness and rest and not to
worry about him getting out of this one alive.
“You have to rest, Carolyn, think of our daughter…
There are many people here who want to help you. Doctor Franklin will support
you during your pregnancy in case… “
//In case you don’t return,//
she finished for him and let go of her tears. Tenderly she reached out
telepathically to search his worries and finally soothe them. //I love you too
much to risk losing you, Alfie.//
//They will take good care of you and you might even
like the station Commander,// he cast, trying to ignore the hurt in her eyes.
Her presence inside his mind was something he relished after having been
deprived of it for so long.
//Have you already decided on a name for our
daughter?// Carolyn cast and twined her hungry thoughts around his, determined
to cherish every moment they could share together.
//I want you to name her,// Al cast, but felt her
probe his thoughts.
Carolyn read a name in his mind he didn’t want to
impose on her and she smiled, touched by his consideration. //You want to call
her Fiona after your mother?//
//Only if you agree to that name…// Al cast
reluctantly.
//It’s been decided then… Fiona… and what about her
last name?//
//What about yours? Bester doesn’t sound right,
neither does Dexter,// Al cast and trembled feeling her approval.
//Fiona Saunderson-Dexter!// she decided and
caressed his relaxed left hand which she still had to grow used to. //How much
time do we have before the doctor completes his research?// she cast nervously,
afraid to hear the answer.
“They planned a meeting of the war council tomorrow
to discuss my plan,” he told her aloud.
“That leaves us only one day and I’m confined to med
lad!”
Leaning in closer Al said in a soft tone, “So am I,
but the doctor is too busy to check on me… us… Do you want me to arrange
something? Some quarters where we can be alone?”
Delighted, Carolyn accepted the invitation to the
intimacy his mind extended to her. “How long will that take?”
“Not long,” Al replied teasingly, “I will find a
way.” Sensing her hidden fear and feeling of abandonment he cast, //I’m sorry
to do this to you, Carolyn, but you know me well enough to realize that I have
no choice. I have to do whatever I can to save my telepaths.//
Carolyn placed a hand at the back of his head and
pulled his face close to hers. //Stop talking and kiss me…//
“Doctor Franklin? We have a problem in med lab one.”
“What!” Franklin exclaimed irritated as his
assistant interrupted him over the com system. He had reached the final stages
of his research and couldn’t take any interruptions. Carefully, he took his
time to end the test he had run on the implants and only then looked up,
worried by the nervous tone in the assistant’s voice. “What is it? Tell me,
man!”
“The two telepaths are gone…”
“Al and Carolyn? Damnit!” he cursed and removed his
gloves and mask before leaving the sterile room to join his assistant in the
corridor. //Thankfully Carolyn is stable and in no immediate danger. This has
to be Al’s doing!// he thought annoyed.
It was his guess that they wanted some privacy
before the implants were put into Al’s brain and Franklin understood that
desire only too well. But they shouldn’t have left med lab without telling him
where they were going! After dismissing the young man he established connection
with Garibaldi’s office.
“What’s up, doc?” Michael quipped, receiving the
call from med lab. Franklin’s desperate moan made him grin.
“I lost Al and Carolyn.”
“You =lost= them?” Garibaldi repeated amused, “Or
did Bester take Marcus lessons on how to sneak out of med lab?”
“Damnit, Michael! Carolyn was still in cryo
yesterday and needs supervision. This is no moment to act this immature! I want
you to locate them ASAP!” Franklin couldn’t help but being concerned.
“Take them back to med lab too?” Garibaldi inquired,
looking forward to harassing Bester and adopted a more serious tone.
“No, just get a fix on their location. I want to
know where they are should they need medical attention. They’ll eventually
return to med lab, but they’ll want to spend some time together before…”
Franklin stopped. Garibaldi hadn’t been briefed yet on Al and Sheridan’s plan.
“Before what?” Garibaldi realized he was missing
something here and didn’t like being kept in the dark.
“Just find them!”
“You’re the doctor,” Garibaldi said and shrugged his
shoulders. He would carry out this assignment as Franklin had ordered him to.
He terminated the connection and lazily leaned back in his chair.
//Locate Bester,// he thought, // How hard can it be
to find two telepaths?//
//Al?//
Soft, sensual thoughts had wrapped themselves around
his and he instinctively answered the passion in her mind voice. //Yes,
darling?// he cast and stared into her hooded eyes. Her long blond hair partly
covered his bare chest and he loved the friction it created on his skin.
//Do you think Fiona is already aware of our
thoughts? Of our existence?// Running her hands over his naked body she
relished the tremors in his mind surface whenever she touched him. At peace
with herself and the universe she snuggled up to him for body heat and moved
her fingers through his short hair.
//No, we…you,// he corrected, //will be the first to
sense her mind signature, that certain level of awareness.// Taking in her
nakedness he smiled. //You’re so damn passionate when we make love!// and
caught a lingering throbbing of longing for the return of the ecstasy they had
shared moments ago. //I missed making love to you,// he admitted.
No spoken words could ever describe the sensation of
two minds melting into one, sharing the same soul for a brief instance. They
had let go of all control, realizing this might be the last time they had the
chance to express their love in this way and the experience left them empty and
unfulfilled. Rapture had passed too quickly and now they clung to each other,
desperately trying to radiate a basic sense of reassurance.
//Maybe now you’re finally ready to sign the divorce
papers, Alfred? You already made so many changes in your life, what’s one more?
Set Alisha free… You don’t love her.//
Sudden apprehension appeared in his eyes as she
mentioned his wife’s name and he seriously considered her question. Until now
he had denied Alisha a divorce and maybe it was a way of punishing her, but now
his behavior appeared foolish and childish.
//You’re right, darling… like you always are. I’ll
sign the divorce papers before the meeting. I’ll set us both free,// he cast
calmly.
Smiling, Carolyn propped herself up on her elbows.
//I’m proud of you, Alfie. You know I don’t need to be married to you to know
you love me.//
//I know,// Al admitted, //but I would like to have
a wife who loves me…//
//Is that a marriage proposal?// Carolyn grinned and
traced the outline of his lips with her fingers.
//Would you accept it?// Al watched fascinated as
she crept towards him on all fours.
//Perhaps… perhaps not,// she replied and placed his
hand against her belly, proud of the new life they had created weeks ago.
//When do we have to return to med lab?//
//Soon, the good doctor will be worried and mad at
us!// he quipped delighted seeing the long fair hair dance on her shoulders.
//You’re so beautiful!//
//Thank you,// she cast and suddenly straddled his
hips. //I want you one last time before… //
The dark fear inside her mind made him shiver.
//Don’t worry about me, darling,// he cast and caressed her skin.
Carolyn pushed back the fear and loved feeling him
helpless beneath him.
//You’ll have to give me a moment to recharge
though… I’m not as young as you are!// he cast teasingly, but realized he was
growing aroused again as she channeled her desire into his mind.
//I can take care of that,// she quipped amused.
No stories or pieces of artwork are meant to
infringe upon the copyright held by J. Michael Straczynski, Babylonian Inc. or
Time Warner Productions.
“It can’t be this hard to locate two people,
even if they’re teeps!” Garibaldi growled as another search team called in
unsuccessfully, “They =are= somewhere on the station!” Irritated as hell
Garibaldi realized Bester had left behind no traces at all. //I’m in charge of
security! I’ll be the laughing stock if Bester wins this one!//
Impatiently pacing his office he once more contacted
one of his officers in Down Below.//Bester has to pay for the quarters where he
is staying. Maybe… // It was a long shot, but he told the guard to check the
diplomatic section. The rest of the station had already been searched and this
was the only hiding place left.
“Alfie?” Carolyn opened her eyes and purred
contently.
“Yes?” Al peeked through sleepy eyelids and noticed
the look of satisfaction on her face. //You exhausted me!// he cast accusingly
and shook his head in mock annoyance when she proceeded to kiss him.
//It might be my last chance,// she told him and
released his lips. //We have to return to med lab,// she realized saddened.
//Yes, our time is up.// Al agreed and played with
some locks of her long, soft hair. //But I’m grateful we had these last
hours.//
//Please don’t go ahead with your plan, Al…
Something will go wrong. The Shadows,// Carolyn cast pleadingly, but the
determined expression in his dark eyes quickly took away all her hope.
//Carolyn,// he whispered into her mind and pulled
her close. //We have to go now.//
Resigned she rose from the bed, sensing admiration
and love in his transparent mind. He had never been able to hide anything from
her and she recognized his self-doubt, finally truly understanding why he had
to do this. //You want to make up for the things you did to them.//
//Yes, why are you surprised? You of all people
should know me best!// Al got to his feet as well and while taking in her
appearance one last time, started to dress.
He had expected to hear Franklin or Garibaldi’s
angry voice by now, trying to drag them back to med lab and was surprised the
Chief hadn’t bothered them yet. //Maybe I managed to outsmart him!//
//I still have to get used to the changed you,//
Carolyn confessed as she slipped into the green tunic Al had had delivered to
their guest quarters before they had arrived. //I am so used to seeing you in a
psi cop uniform, seeing that pin on your jacket and now… // Somewhat amazed she
studied his civilian clothes. //But I like this change in you. I hoped for it
for so long that I had almost given up on it.//
Pulling her into his arms he inhaled her sensual
scent and wondered if he would ever hold her like this again. She was right
though. There was no way of telling if and how the implants would affect him.
//You have got to be strong… for Fiona…//
Carolyn smiled. //I count on you being there to help
me raise her, Alfie.//
//I will do my best,// he promised, touched by the
emotional intensity of her mind voice.
The door chime suddenly interrupted their intimate
moment and cautiously Al reached out to see who was standing in the corridor.
“I should have known… “ he whispered, recognizing Garibaldi’s thoughts. The
Chief felt pleased with himself for finding their hiding place.
Carolyn choked back the comment she was about to
make. It wasn’t fair to ask him to forget about the Blips trapped inside the
Shadow vessels, but she had never been a fighter, had never considered
resisting the Corps and now Al was the new resistance leader…
“I will help you fight them,” she told him in a shaky
tone.
“All you have to do,” Al said and caressed her face,
“is take care of yourself and our daughter.”
“Bester! I know you’re in there!”
Hearing the snarl Al sighed and nodded his head.
“We’re on our way, Mr. Garibaldi.” Quickly checking the time he suddenly
realized they had stayed much longer than planned. The War council meeting
would start in 30 minutes.
Garibaldi shot Bester a smug look and studied
Carolyn. He had never met the woman before and regarded her cautiously. She was
a telepath after all!
Sheridan’s gaze was directed inward, pondering Al’s
plan one more time. The War council had been off to a bumpy start as Garibaldi
had escorted the two telepaths here while radiating an almost palpable
annoyance. The fact that it had taken him that long to locate them nagged at
the Chief’s ego.
Susan looked a bit depressed; missing Marcus she
found it hard to carry on with daily routine. She had never realized how
important the ranger had become to her... until now.
Tonight she would try and contact him on Minbar to
make sure he had arrived safely. As Delenn had told her about Neroon escorting
him to Minbar she had turned pale, remembering vividly how close Marcus had
come to dying after their fight in Down Below.
“Stephen, are you certain this will work?” The
Captain focused his attention on Franklin who had brought along the implants.
The cold metal and shapeless wires rested on the table as the doctor explained
their functions.
Quietly Al maintained psi contact with Carolyn who
was shaking badly, seeing the implants in front of her. Maybe it hadn’t been
such a good idea to allow her to tag along. She had insisted though and he had
never been able to deny her anything.
“Yes, I adjusted the implants so Al will be in
control the entire time.” Franklin wasn’t sure how he felt about this recent
development. He was still hesitant when it came down to putting the implants
into Al’s brain.
“How long will surgery take?” Delenn inquired and
seeing the expression on Carolyn’s face she continued, “I received reports
today which are truly unsettling. The Shadows are advancing quickly. They will
reach Babylon 5 tomorrow if they continue at current speed.”
“Two, maybe three hours,” Stephen replied and caught
the shivers racking Carolyn’s body, realizing he had to closely monitor the
pregnant woman. This amount of stress could affect the pregnancy.
“What are we waiting for?” Al asked and got to his
feet. His ankle hardly troubled him any longer and he was eager to get this
over and done with so he could be with Carolyn.
Susan sensed Al’s lowered shields and got a general
impression of his thoughts. Concern for Carolyn dominated his mind and she
studied Carolyn more closely. For some reason, which eluded her, she felt
inclined to offer Carolyn her support. Perhaps it had something to do with the
fact that Marcus was away. She =knew= how deserted Carolyn properly felt.
//Thank you. Carolyn will need all the support she
can get,// Al’s mind voice drifted into her thoughts and Susan quickly stared
at the man.
//You need to work on your shields,// Al told her,
but felt relieved now that Ivanova had decided to help his lover.
Susan refrained from sending him a reply and focused
on Sheridan instead. The Captain wasn’t thrilled to be forced to go along with
this option. Concern showed in his thoughts and Susan liked him even more for
worrying about a telepath. Never before had she understood Al’s point of view
so clearly.
Telepaths differed from normals, yes and it would
always be that way, but there had to be a way for them to live together
peacefully. All it took was setting aside fear and paranoia and this could be
the first step on a road of new understanding. //We’re all humans, telepaths or
not.//
//Yes,// Al reacted, //in the end we all share the
same blood.//
Carolyn had listened to their conversation and
wondered about Ivanova. Al had told her that the Commander was a telepath too
and that she had run from the Corps her entire life. Feeling only sympathy for
Susan, Carolyn hoped they might become friends one day… She would need them,
especially if Al didn’t return from this assignment.
“I still don’t like this,” Sheridan muttered and
locked eyes with Franklin, “I will okay the surgery, but this better work!”
“I’ll start preparations at once and will schedule
surgery for 0800 hours,” he told Al, trying to muster all the reassurance he
could.
“I’ll be there,” Al promised, then looked at
Carolyn. “I will take you back to med lab. You need to rest.”
Tired, Carolyn nodded her head and placed her hand
on his. Together they left the War room.
“I hate to admit it,” Susan started, “but it does
look like I misjudged him.”
Garibaldi leaned back and considered her statement.
“I still don’t like him, but yeah, you’re right, Susan. The old Bester is gone…
I’m not that sure what to make of this guy.”
“Carolyn will need our support,” Susan whispered
hesitantly. So much had changed lately and expressing her feelings was
something she was still uncomfortable with… Marcus might have shown her how to
talk to her heart again, but voicing her concern felt awkward.
“I’m surprised about Bester’s choice…
"Garibaldi admitted, remembering the way she had looked at Bester during
their walk back. “I’m sure she’s the one wearing the pants in their
relationship!”
Confused, Delenn looked at Sheridan. “Wearing the
pants?”
Her remark made him smile. “I’ll explain it to
you…”
Hesitantly, Susan remained poised in the corridor.
It had been her intention to talk to Carolyn, but was now reconsidering her
idea. Why try trusting a telepath? //But Carolyn is a Blip, she refused to join
the Corps or to go on sleepers… In a certain way… I’m a Blip too,// she
realized startled.
“Please come inside.”
Hearing Carolyn’s voice Susan knew she had been
discovered and slowly entered the room. Carolyn was lying in the bed and there
was no sign of Bester. Susan had no idea what to say and simply continued to
observe the other woman.
“We never met before,” Carolyn started, feeling
Susan’s discomfort.
“No, we didn’t. I’m Commander Susan Ivanova,” she
said and maintained her distance.
“Al told me about you.” Insecurity showed in her
voice and Carolyn wondered why Ivanova had come here.
Susan quickly looked about, making sure they were
alone. //I’m a telepath too,// she cast nervously.
//I realized that when I sensed your mind signature…
I wished I had been able to fail their test or remain undiscovered too,//
Carolyn admitted, //the relocation camps are dreadful. If it hadn’t been for
Al… //
“He told us after we found you onboard that ship,”
Susan revealed and switched back to talking aloud. It was unnerving to hear
another voice in her head.
“I wish Al would call off this absurd plan. It will
never work,” Carolyn said, “I know… I felt their presence in my mind… I don’t
ever want to feel it again!” A tear slid down her face, remembering the
isolation as the machine had taken over.
“Speaking of Bester…” Susan looked about and added,
“Where is he?”
“Doctor Franklin wanted to run some tests
before starting surgery.” Carolyn closed her eyes, tired and restless. “I will
lose him for a second time.”
A sudden twitch of pain shot through Susan’s heart
hearing those words. Not so long ago she had felt the same way. All hope had
deserted her. “He knows what he’s doing… Carolyn,” she added the name hesitantly,
uncertain she wanted to befriend the woman. She wasn’t sure she could handle
another commitment. Trusting Marcus and letting him in had already been a major
step for her to take.
“But this time it’s different.” Carolyn locked eyes
with Ivanova and sensed the dilemma in her mind. “I have never seen him this
driven before. Finding out he’s Stephen Dexter caused something to snap inside
him.”
Susan didn’t know
what to say so she simply nodded her head, knowing Carolyn’s pain like her own…
she worried for Marcus too.
Marcus sat back after working out with the trainees
for most of the day. Neroon had left the training facility after reluctantly
accepting that Eliet’s mind couldn’t be changed.
Looking over at Master Durhann the ranger caught the
pleased look on the Minbari’s face. The teacher had given him instructions
prior to starting the training and he’d had no problems carrying them out. The
trainees were panting, sweat covered their brow as he pushed them to the edge
and a little further.
“You did well,” Durhann complimented him and took a
seat next to his new assistant.
“Thank you,” Marcus replied and smiled warmly. After
all the trainees had left he felt comfortable enough to address the Minbari
again. “I wasn’t sure coming here was such a good idea.”
“Why?” Durhann suspected the answer, but wanted to
hear Marcus say it.
“Memories of Willie,” Marcus admitted and closed his
eyes, “Some weeks ago I rescued a telepath. His name is Al and he made me face
my past.”
“What are you trying to tell me?” Durhann studied
the human and noticed the soft gleam in those eyes as Marcus looked at him.
“I blame myself for his death…that’s why I joined
the rangers.”
“I have known that for a long time,” Durhann
confessed and grinned seeing Marcus’ confusion.
“You did?” Marcus shook his head in disbelief.
“Delenn told me I was clinging to the pain and I knew she was right, but I
couldn’t let go.”
“What changed?”
“Al telling me to clean up my act, I guess,” Marcus
whispered and then grinned, “And discovering that Susan loves me too.”
“Ah,” Durhann whispered, “Love… is for the young.
Come with me, Marcus. There’s something I want to show you.” Slowly he got to
his feet and leaned heavily on his staff.
“I heard some rumors concerning your injury,” Marcus
said teasingly and noticed the unease on the Minbari’s face. “You should be
careful in future. It’s so easy to trip over a Gok.” Marcus remembered seeing
the catlike creatures once while paying a visit to Tuzanor.
“You will not talk to anyone about that incident!”
Durhann said embarrassed. The Gok had turned up unexpected and had wrapped
itself around his feet, tripping him in the process.
“The great Durhann… defeated by a Gok!” Marcus
laughed warmly, wondering how much longer the Minbari would put up with him.
But Durhann ignored him and opened the door to his
private quarters instead. “Please, come inside,” he whispered and walked over
to his desk and opened one of the drawers.
“William asked me to keep this till the day came
that you were ready to face the truth, your past. That time has now come and
you should read it.” Durhann uncovered an ancient looking book with a red
cover.
Marcus’ heart missed a beat seeing it. “Is that
Willie’s diary?” His tone wavered and involuntarily he took a step back. Almost
bolting out of the room apprehension flowed through him. William had always
carried the diary around with him, confiding a lot of secrets to it, but he had
always assumed it had been destroyed during the crash. Seeing it now confused
him immensely.
“Take it, Marcus.” Durhann extended his hand and
offered it to the human.
“I… " Nervous, Marcus swallowed hard.
“Take it,” Durhann repeated firmly.
Eventually Marcus raised his arm to take it from the
Minbari’s hand. His first thought had been to burn it, throw it away as far as
possible, or make it sink into the lake… but never to touch it, let alone
accept or read it. The book burned his fingers and suddenly feeling nauseous,
he tried to think up a reason to excuse himself so he could get rid off it.
“William told me that he wanted you to read it
should he die. If you hadn’t joined us I would have sent someone to deliver it
to you.” Durhann sighed and observed Marcus who looked terrified. “But when you
arrived here hate burned your soul and I knew you were not ready yet to read
it.”
Quickly, Marcus tugged it away and stared at the
Minbari, pleading with his eyes to be excused.
“You can go now,” Durhann said, dismissing the
human, “but accept my advice and read it!”
//How can I? I don’t want to read about Willie accusing
me of deserting him! I never believed him when he told me about this ancient
threat. I withheld him my support…// Miserable, Marcus closed the door behind
him and fled to his quarters.
No stories or pieces of artwork are meant to infringe upon the copyright
held by J. Michael Straczynski, Babylonian Inc. or Time Warner Productions.
Staring
at his brother’s diary Marcus leaped to his feet and started pacing his guest
quarters. Torn apart by apprehension he refused to look at the book any longer.
He didn’t want to know Willie’s intimate thoughts!
//But
maybe it will help me deal with what happened. Or it will feed my guilt by
reading his accusations!// he thought in despair. Unsure how to proceed he
remembered why he had come here in the first place. Even Susan had agreed this
was the best course of action for him at the moment. The name woke a sweet ache
in the pit of stomach. He missed her greatly and realized, //I need her!//
The
diary kept calling out to him, luring him closer all the time. As he reached
out to take it into his hand he dropped it back onto the table as if his
fingers had been burned. //I can’t do this!//
Unexpectedly,
he remembered Al finally facing his past and knew the telepath would chide him
for acting like this.
“I
have to do this… for Susan, for all the people who care about me. “ Marcus
reverently took the diary into his hands and opened it in the middle. It was
William’s elegant handwriting all right and he took a deep breath before
reading the first lines. This could be his salvation or his undoing; finally
learning his brother’s most private thoughts.
#Today Entil’Zha Sinclair ordered me to return
to Arisia to talk to Marcus. Sinclair is very keen on him joining the rangers,
but why I don’t know. I’m sure Sinclair has some hidden agenda concerning
Marcus. #
Marcus looked up, baffled to read this. It was obvious Sinclair’s
interest in him had taken Willie by surprise and Marcus understood why. How
could Sinclair have known about him? Curious he decided to continue reading.
#I felt hesitant to ask him why he wanted Marcus to
join us that badly, but decided to ask him before leaving for Arisia. The
answer Sinclair gave me was logical after all. I had completely forgotten that
Marcus had been drafted into Earthforce during the war. Apparently Sinclair had
noticed Marcus’ qualities back then. Yet, something still doesn’t make sense!#
Taking a moment to let the words sink in Marcus knew for certain he had
never met Sinclair during the Earth-Minbari war. That was one meeting he would
never forget! He had to agree with Willie, something didn’t make sense. Marcus
turned the page and resumed reading.
#Today I arrived at Arisia and I still hate the
god forsaken place. Marcus looks even worse than when I left and I wonder if
I’m to blame for that. Maybe I should have stayed to help him run the mining
company. I tried to explain to him what the ranger’s goals were, but he’s
determined not to listen to me.
Hasina, however is doing fine and assured me
she was keeping an eye on Marcus. If only I could convince him to join the
rangers! He’s so bloody unhappy here! I wish he sold the bloody place! Marcus
isn’t a businessman and I can only guess what happened during his time in
Earthforce to cause him to live as a hermit.#
His
hands trembled reading those words. //Willie, maybe I should have told you
about the horrors I witnessed while with Earthforce Intelligence. You have no
idea how dirty that war was fought!// That had been his main reason for staying
on Arisia, trying to keep away from fights and wars which only demanded
innocent victims
Willie’s
concern for his well being surprised him though. //And how did this diary end
up back on Minbar any way?// he wondered.
#I spent today convincing Marcus that he had to
join the rangers, but all he did was take me on a tour of this blasted planet.
It did make me realize one thing. I hurt him when I left for Minbar.
Maybe I acted selfishly by leaving him behind.
I don’t know any more. But I doubt Sinclair will get his wish. Marcus won’t
accompany me back to Minbar. I’m going to send this diary to Tuzanor. I already
found a courier. I’ve got this ominous feeling something bad is going to
happen. Shadow sightings increased and I am worried they may attack Arisia
because of the Quantium 40 that we mine here.
Should the Shadows attack while I’m still here
I want Sinclair to know I did my best to claim Marcus for our cause.#
Tears
dripped from his face. Willie’s concern moved him as he never expected it.
About to close the book he noted one last entry on the last page.
#I wish I could tell Marcus how much I love
him, but the years created a crevice between us and it is keeping us apart. Why
does he think he has to hide his worries or pain from me?
Marcus, should you ever read this, though I
know that chance is very small, remember I love you, big brother and all I want
to tell you is to follow your heart.#
No
longer able to stop the flow of tears he read those last words a second time
until he finally realized that Willie had never been angry with him. To
actually read this after so many years set his mind at ease.
//Now
I know why you made me promise to join the rangers. You wanted me to start all
over, far away from Arisia, a place I hated just as much as you did! Willie, I
think I would have joined the rangers anyway, even without making that promise.
After Arisia was destroyed I had to face reality and Minbar was the only place
I could go.
Yes, I
love being a ranger. You knew me so well! I promised you to finish what you
started and I will walk that road which has now become mine because I believe
in its cause.
I will
stop blaming myself for the Shadow attack. I realize now that if you have been
convinced they would attack you would have given the order to evacuate
yourself. I couldn’t have stopped you and the workers would have left at once.
I will make the Shadows pay for what they did to us, but I can’t do that
here…//
Marcus’
eyes were determined as he slipped the book into his duffel and pulled it over
his shoulder. Walking over to the computer console he established a connection
to Neroon’s War Cruiser, which had been holding its position till Neroon would
make up his mind whether to stay with Eliet or leave.
“Marcus?”
Neroon said surprised. He was in a rather foul mood now that Eliet had insisted
on staying in Tuzanor.
“Neroon,
I need a favor,” Marcus started and had never seen his path more clearly now
that he knew what to do.
“A
favor?”
“Yes,
I want =you= to assist Master Durhann. I have to return to Babylon 5 as quickly
as possible.” Marcus hoped Neroon would accept his proposal. “Think about it,
that way you can be close to Eliet and… you’re a better pike fighter than I
am!”
Neroon
considered the idea. “Why do you have to return to Babylon 5?”
“I
can’t explain this to you now, Neroon. I just have to…” Marcus said pleadingly.
His place wasn’t here. Willie’s dairy had made him realize that.
“Agreed,”
Neroon finally muttered, only giving in to be close to Eliet. “My shuttle will
arrive in 30 minutes. I suggest you return to the war cruiser. My second in
command will see to it that the ship takes you to Babylon 5 and I assure you
there won’t be any incidents on your way back.”
“Thank
you, Neroon,” Marcus sighed relieved. Maybe if he used some short cuts he could
make it back to Babylon 5 in one or two days.
Al
stared into the mirror and studied his reflection. Franklin would operate on
him in one hour. The implants would then become a part of him and he shivered
slightly, worried for Carolyn’s response should she ever see him like that.
“Al?”
Martin entered the room, not thrilled by the idea that their new leader had
decided to handle this situation personally. “Is there anything the resistance
can do to help?”
“I’m
afraid not,” Al replied, “Maybe look after Carolyn should this go wrong.”
“When
are the Shadows supposed to arrive?” Martin asked concerned.
“The
rangers suspect within 48 hours. We don’t have a lot of time to get organized
and it will take me some time to get used to the implants and learning how to
use them.” Al walked back to the bed and sat down. Franklin had finished his
tests and would return shortly to give him the pre-med injection.
“The
resistance thinks you should let someone else take your place. As Stephen
Dexter you’re too valuable to do this yourself!”
“As Stephen Dexter I have to
do this, Martin. I don’t want to endanger any one else!” Al said determined and
sensed Martin’s confusion. //Don’t try to understand me,// he cast.
Doctor
Franklin entered the room and asked Martin to leave. “I’ve got to prep him for
surgery,” he explained.
Martin
sighed depressed. “I will stay close just in case you need help,” he assured
Al.
“That’s
fine with me.” Should the implants end up controlling him they were in trouble
and would need all the help they could get to subdue him. He had insisted that
Franklin would be present the entire time, ready to sedate him should that be
necessary.
Doctor
Hobbes would keep an eye on Carolyn and try to keep her away. Al didn’t want to
endanger the baby, not knowing how she would react. The implants might cause
her to go into shock.
Martin
left with a concerned expression on his face. How to explain to the resistance
that their new leader was so damned headstrong?
“Are
you ready?” Franklin inquired as Al rolled up his sleeve.
“Ready
as I’ll ever be,” Al whispered and watched Franklin inject the substance.
“Don’t
worry too much about Carolyn. She’s in capable hands,” he assured his patient.
Al lay
down as the meds hit his system. Upon awakening the implants would be a part of
his brain. Nervous, he peeked through half closed eyelids at the doctor who
looked confident and in control. “Let’s get started then,” he whispered and
released the breath he had been holding onto as he drifted into a
drug-controlled sleep.
Uncomfortably
he looked about the nerve center of the war cruiser.
Several
Minbari were working the controls, carrying out Neroon’s orders to take the
Anla’Shok back to Babylon as quickly as possible. They treated him
respectfully, something that surprised the ranger. Apparently Neroon had told
them to behave and treat him as an equal.
Staring
at the crystals, which operated the war cruiser, Marcus counted the hours left
until his arrival at the space station. He had tried contacting Susan, but an
accident had happened in the cargo bay and she hadn’t been in. Bugger, he had
looked forward to telling her that he would arrive in 30 hours!
The
crewmembers of the war cruiser had looked baffled as he had shown them some
short cuts and although the language presented a barrier they had quickly
realized what he wanted them to do.
//30
more hours,// he thought somewhat depressed and wondered what had happened
during his sort absence from the station. Had Al made a complete recovery? Had
Susan listened to him and asked for Al’s advice? He hoped she had.
Fumbling
his collapsed pike he recognized the young Minbari who had challenged him
during their trip to Minbar. The warrior now respectfully lowered his eyes.
Apparently the crew had accepted the fact that a human Anla’Shok was onboard
and they didn’t try to defy him.
Assured that everything was all right he continued to watch them. Maybe
he could try and contact Susan later.
Commander
Ivanova’s glare revealed more than words ever could. The incident in the cargo
bay had taken up too much of her time and she hadn’t been able to return to her
quarters to change her uniform. Babylon 5 resembled a mad house these days and
she wished Marcus were here with her. Now she had to face everything on her
own.
//But
I made some friends because he isn’t here! I feel a lot closer to Michael,
Stephen and Carolyn… I have to admit I actually like her!// Marcus’ absence had
forced her to turn to different people instead.
Entering
med lab she wondered if Franklin was already performing surgery on Al. She
didn’t envy the doctor’s responsibility and sighed as she sensed Carolyn’s
distress. Susan turned around the corner and noticed Carolyn pacing the
hallway. “Shouldn’t you be in bed?” she asked and concern colored her tone.
Carolyn
looked up at her, agony written all over her face. //They’re putting the
implants in right now! I’m so scared, Susan,// she cast.
Hearing
her mind voice took Susan momentarily aback, but realized that Carolyn was
nervous and afraid. //Franklin is an excellent surgeon. He will look after
Al.// It still felt odd to refer to her old nemesis as Al. Placing a gentle
hand on Carolyn’s arm to guide the telepath to her room. “You have to rest.
Think about the baby.”
“Yes,
Fiona,” Carolyn whispered aloud as she lay down again. Clinging to Susan’s
hands she said, “Please, I want you to be the child’s godmother.”
“Me?”
Susan replied stunned, “Why me?”
“I
don’t know anyone here except for you and Al. Please?”
Susan
was speechless. “I’m not sure I’m the right person for that job, Carolyn.”
“Is it because you and Al were
enemies once? He’s changed, you know,” Carolyn said pleadingly.
“Give
me some time to think it over,” Susan replied, but knew she couldn’t deny this
request. It was true, Carolyn didn’t know anyone else.
“What
if things go wrong?” she whispered upset, “What if Al tries to meld with the
computer? What if the Shadows find a way to control his mind?”
Susan
had considered the same questions, but realized they had no other choice at
present. The Shadows were too strong and someone had to try and free the
telepaths inside those Shadow vessels. “Do you want me to sit with you until
the surgery is done?”
“Yes,
please,” Carolyn sighed and fought her tears.
Pulling
up a chair Susan sat down and wondered what to say to break the horrible
silence.
But
Carolyn spoke first. “Al told me a ranger rescued him?”
“Yes,
Marcus,” she said in a soft tone.
Carolyn
immediately picked up on the underlying current of feelings in Susan’s mind.
“You love him?”
“I
fought my feelings for a long time till I finally accepted that truth.” Susan
shifted in the chair and realized she wanted to tell Carolyn about Marcus. It
would take their minds off of the ongoing surgery.
Franklin
released a strangled sigh as he left the operating theatre. Everything had gone
according to plan and the implants were now connected to Al’s brain. It would
take the telepath one hour at least to regain consciousness. Now he had to tell
Carolyn that the implants were working and that Al had survived surgery… he
didn’t look forward to it.
As he
reached her room he identified Susan’s voice, telling Carolyn about the time
when she had flung some roses into Marcus’ face. A smile crossed his features,
remembering that incident.
“Carolyn?
Susan?” he said stepping inside. The two women immediately grew silent and he
noticed the anguish in Carolyn’s eyes. “Everything went fine and Al will wake
up in one hour.”
“What about the implants?”
Carolyn asked in a trembling tone.
“Working,”
Franklin replied and caught the shivers racking her body. //Al was right to
insist Carolyn wouldn’t see him like that,// and he was determined to keep her
away from her lover.
“When
will we know if he’s in control of them?” Susan wanted to know and allowed
Carolyn to grab her hand for support.
Franklin
smiled as he realized that Susan had decided to befriend Carolyn. //It’s
amazing the way Marcus pushed through her defenses,// he thought pleased. “When
he wakes up, Susan.”
His
hand communicator beeped and he quickly tapped it. “Franklin go.”
Sheridan’s
voice sounded concerned as he spoke. “Is Susan there with you?”
“Yes,
and Carolyn as well,” Franklin informed the Captain.
“Good,
I want to see you, Susan… and Carolyn if she feels up to it in the war room in
20 minutes. Delenn has news concerning the progress the Shadows are making.”
“We’ll
be there,” Franklin said and looked at Carolyn. “I advise you to stay in bed
and rest.”
“No,” she objected, “I will go mad
lying here, worrying about Alfie!”
“I will accompany her to the war
room,” Susan offered, somewhat surprised she wanted to ease Carolyn’s agony.
“I have to check on Al one more time
and then I will join you,” Franklin said and headed back to the recovery room to
give Lillian some last minute instructions.
No
stories or pieces of artwork are meant to infringe upon the copyright held by
J. Michael Straczynski, Babylonian Inc. or Time Warner Productions.
Being
as it was the Rangers who had supplied them with this latest intelligence,
Sheridan looked to Delenn to begin the meeting.
Susan
felt Carolyn’s concern wash through her. The telepath had seated herself next
to her, in need of some support and a friendly face.
Carolyn
peeked at Garibaldi whose underlying loathing was palpable in his mind and she
swallowed hard, realizing he hated telepaths and Al in general. No matter what
Al would do to make up for past mistakes it would never appease the Chief of
Security.
Delenn
caught Carolyn’s gaze and sighed. It had been an illusion to hope Garibaldi
would ever learn to trust a telepath. She composed herself and addressed the
council.
“I
received a report from White Star 5 one hour ago. The Shadows increased their
speed and will reach Babylon 5 in 35 hours. The psi corps ships however are
unable to keep up with them and will probably be too late to make the
rendez-vous in time. That leaves us with only the Shadows to battle.”
“Only,”
Sheridan muttered and shrugged his shoulders as Delenn looked at him. “The
rangers have counted about 100 vessels,” he explained to the others.
“A
hundred?” Susan repeated stunned, “We can never defeat them!”
“We do
have a trump,” the Captain reminded her, “If Al can get into their system and
disrupt it…”
A soft
moan escaped Carolyn’s lips as she remembered being one with the station’s
computer.
Garibaldi
studied her closely. He was still trying to digest the fact that Bester had a
lover at all! And now this woman appeared to be just as human as they were. For
some reason he had assumed Carolyn would be like the Bester he had always
known; cold and heartless. //But she’s a Blip, isn’t she?// he mused and
decided to remain silent.
“That
would leave Al plenty of time to get used to the implants,” Franklin remarked,
“Al should wake up any moment now and I want to be there when he does.”
“You’re
excused,” Sheridan said, understanding Franklin’s real request.
Franklin
nodded once and quickly left the war room.
Carolyn
wanted to follow him, but Susan’s hand pulled her back. //Don’t!// Susan warned
her.
//You
don’t understand! Al might need me!// Carolyn objected.
Realizing they were attracting odd
looks from Garibaldi Ivanova released Carolyn’s hand. “Anything else, Captain?”
she asked, trying to divert the Chief’s attention. It was bad enough that a
number of people already knew about her being a telepath. Garibaldi would never
forgive her for lying to him all those years and she didn’t want to lose his
friendship. If Garibaldi ever learned the truth…
“Actually, yes,” Delenn replied instead, “I
also received a message from Marcus.”
Startled, Susan focused on Delenn. “Why didn’t
he contact =me=?”
“Actually
he tried, but could not get hold of you so he left a message instead, asking me
to deliver it to you.” Delenn enjoyed seeing the hunger on Susan’s face. Not so
long ago Ivanova would have denied she loved Marcus.
“Tell
me, Delenn,” Susan demanded, eager to hear any news at all from the ranger.
“He is
on his way back and will arrive before the Shadows will attack.”
Susan sighed and couldn’t repress a contented
smile. “Somehow he knows exactly when and where the action will be,” she
chuckled amused.
Carolyn
suddenly squeezed her hand and Susan was startled seeing the paleness to her
face. “Franklin was right. You should be in med lab. I’ll walk you there,” she
offered, cutting off Carolyn who wanted to protest.
“Susan,”
Sheridan started and shook his head, “I need to talk to you in private first.”
Making his decision John looked at Garibaldi. “Our charming Chief will escort
Carolyn back to med lab.”
Carolyn
gasped hearing that order. “I can get there on my own,” she whispered in
denial. The unease Garibaldi radiated made her feel nauseous.
Michael
was surprised to recognize fear in Carolyn’s eyes. He disliked carrying out
Sheridan’s order, but knew why the Captain had chosen him. John wanted the
council to act as one, to trust each other.
“I’ll
walk you,” he said resolved, “Franklin would be mad at me for not looking after
his patients,” he quipped, trying to break the ice.
Susan
was thankful for the effort the Chief made and while looking at Carolyn she
cast;// You can trust him.//
Slowly,
Carolyn rose to her feet, still apprehensive about trusting Garibaldi. //I
don’t have a choice, do I?// she asked Ivanova, already aware of the answer and
followed Garibaldi into the corridor.
“Captain?”
Susan asked, now that the three of them were alone. Sheridan looked worried.
“I’ve
got special orders for you,” he started hesitantly.
“What
orders?” Susan couldn’t help focusing on his thoughts and felt discomfort
coursing through him… and Delenn as well.
“Before
Al had surgery we talked in private…”
“I
didn’t know about that,” Susan admitted, suddenly alert. He wanted something
from her, but felt uneasy asking her.
“We
decided that Al should leave the station moments before the Shadows appear. Al told me that hyperspace will
amplify his telepathic powers and we need any advantage we can get!” Sheridan
paused briefly. He hated giving her this order. “I can’t send him out there on
his own. In case he loses control someone has to be there to sedate him.”
“And I am that person?” Susan
shook her head in disbelief. Why hadn’t Sheridan told her before?
“I
need a telepath out there! Originally I thought about sending Carolyn, but she
is no condition to go ahead with this. Stephen will accompany you to supply
medical assistance if necessary. It will be only the three of you.” Sheridan
exchanged a glance with Delenn who had suggested Susan in the first place.
“John,
I don’t know if I can do this!” Susan exclaimed, “I’m not that strong!”
“I
know, but… You’re the only one I can think of with Lyta off station,” Sheridan
added apologetically.
Susan
got up from her chair and started to pace the room. //Damn! Why does he have to
be right all the time? Carolyn isn’t up to this for sure,// she realized.
Getting her involved would only resort in even more mayhem. //But I want to see
Marcus before I have to leave…I still have to deflower him!// and she grinned
wickedly.
Sheridan
was taken aback by that grin and reached the wrong conclusion. “No, Commander,
you’re not going to space Al! He’s an alley now!”
Hearing
that comment Susan’s grin broadened. “Okay, I’ll do it,” she said determined.
“Let’s kick their sorry ass back to Z’ha’dum!”
Carolyn
tried to maintain some distance between her and the Chief. Since they had left
the War room Garibaldi’s thoughts had become less paranoid and she was
intensely grateful for that. She couldn’t take much more. The thought of Al
having those implants in his brain was enough to send shivers down her spine.
Slowly
putting her feet in front of the other she wished Susan had accompanied her
back instead. She felt tired and weak and vertigo was claiming her quickly.
Putting her hands against the wall for support she felt relieved to see the
core tube was empty as they entered.
Garibaldi
knew she was about to collapse when the core tube started moving and reached
out with an arm to catch her. He forgot about not wanting to touch her as he
realized she was also pregnant and in need of his help. At that moment it
didn’t matter to him that Bester was the child’s father. “I’ve got you,” he
said and grinned, feeling her shiver underneath his fingertips.
“I can
take care of myself,” Carolyn whispered and leaned against the wall.
Garibaldi
looked her in the eyes and realized she was just as uncomfortable with his
presence as he was with hers… //No,// he thought, //she looks scared, not just
uncomfortable.//
Carolyn
was blocking his thoughts to the best of her ability, not keen on receiving his
loathing. “They all hate us,” she mumbled lost, suddenly realizing she had
spoken out loud.
After considering her comment Garibaldi said,
“I don’t like teeps.”
“I
know,” Carolyn laughed bitterly.
“But…you
don’t have to be afraid of me. I won’t hurt you.” Michael wasn’t sure he had
read her facial expression correctly, but the way she flinched told him enough.
“Normals scare you.”
“They’ve
hurt me too many times,” Carolyn bit back.
Michael
hated to admit it, but she was probably just being honest. “How?” he asked.
“You
don’t know how it feels to receive their loathing without trying to read their
minds. The thoughts suddenly pop up in your mind and it hurts! We aren’t that
different… we can be hurt too!” she choked out the words, avoiding all eye
contact. Suddenly she realized he was still supporting her.
“I
never looked at it that way,” Garibaldi admitted, “I never…”
“Considered
telepaths human beings too? That’s what most normals think, you know. I just
don’t know what we did to deserve that amount of hate and…” Carolyn placed a
hand against her belly as if to protect her unborn child.
Ashamed,
Garibaldi tightened his hold on her as Carolyn swayed on her feet.
“I
don’t know why I should be glad to give birth, knowing what her life will be
like. Our child will be marked at birth and the life set aside for her is one
of pain and hate. Look at the other option,” Carolyn stared into his eyes and
was determined to speak her mind, “Hand her over to psi corps so they can
brainwash her like they did to Al? Make her hunt down her own kind?”
Speaking
exhausted her and she closed her eyes. “You don’t know what it's like to be a
telepath…” she mumbled and fought the tears escaping her eyes.
Michael
had grown quiet during her reprimand and realized the truth in her words. “I’m
sorry,” he whispered, taken aback by the pain on her face. “I will try to act
differently in future…” he had wanted to add something to that sentence but
stopped as a sudden warm and cosy feeling invaded his mind.
There
were no thoughts attached to the sensation, only the awareness of warmth and
safety. “What?” he asked and stared at Carolyn whose big eyes startled him.
“It’s
Fiona,” she murmured, realizing her unborn daughter had made her presence
known. “I wished Al were here too.” She tried blocking Fiona’s emotions but
they were too strong. Garibaldi’s face told her he was experiencing Fiona’s
emotions too. “I’m sorry, but I can’t stop her casting…I have to find out how
first,” she said apologetically.
“I
don’t mind,” Michael replied honestly, “I never felt anything like this.”
“Fiona
isn’t doing it on purpose,” Carolyn repeated, not sure what to make of the
man’s reaction. Once she had invaded a normal’s mind accidentally and he had
been furious. No one had helped her when he had backhanded her.
Michael
flinched as he received that particular image as well and felt even more
ashamed for his words and actions earlier.
“I’m
so sorry,” Carolyn whispered, “sorry, so sorry,” and her voice drowned in
emotion.
Composing
himself again Michael smiled reassuringly. “It’s okay,” he said firmly, seeing
the apprehension in Carolyn’s eyes as she wasn’t sure how he would react.
“I
never thought I would ever say this, but… I’m starting to understand where
you’re coming from.” Slowly, Fiona’s presence faded away and seeing the
feverish expression in Carolyn’s eyes he realized it took all her strength to
keep Fiona from casting.
“Computer,
override all instructions and direct this tube directly to med lab.
Authorization Michael Garibaldi, security code 0A01.”
No
longer sensing any animosity coming from Garibaldi, Carolyn relaxed and leaned
heavily on him. //Oh, Alfie… will they ever accept us?//
Al
hesitantly opened his eyes and wondered about the strange sensation in his
mind. Something dark slithered through his thoughts and he immediately
activated his primary shields.
//The
implants,// he realized and was relieved when the shields proved strong enough
to keep the dark outside. Whispers flew though his mind, using alien words, but
he sensed their meaning. The implants were trying to lure him into melding with
Babylon 5. Thankful for the training he had received in his youth Al managed to
control the urge and finally fought it down.
The
other thing he never expected to experience was the implants reaching out into
space to try and find the others… the telepaths inside the Shadow vessels and
Al cut off the energy seeping off into space.
“Al?
Talk to me,” Franklin said concerned as the telepath spaced out on him. Keeping
a close eye on all readings the doctor didn’t know what else to do. Their
future might depend on Al being able to control the implants.
“I’m
fine,” Al whispered, involuntarily adjusting his tone to the mumbling in his
mind. Locking eyes with the doctor Al was startled to receive an image from
Franklin’s mind, seeing himself with the implants in his head. Wires emerged
from his temples and disappeared beneath the hair. Shocked, Al shut out that
image.
“How
does it feel?” Franklin inquired, making notes and studying Al.
“Surreal,”
Al replied and raised a hand to hesitantly touch the implants, “I always
received static from the people close to me, but these implants are reaching
out the other telepaths inside the Shadow vessels. I almost revealed my
presence to them… that would be much too soon.”
“So can you deal with the
implants?” Franklin asked concerned. Although the readings were normal he
didn’t like the far away look in Al’s eyes.
“ I
will end up with a splitting headache though,” Al attempted some humor, but
failed.
“I
will remove them if necessary,” Franklin said in a determined tone.
“Don’t,”
Al whispered, “How many hours before we have to leave the station?”
“28,”
Franklin informed him, “You might be pleased to know that our Commander has
accepted the invitation to accompany us into hyperspace.”
Al
nodded fatigued. “What about Carolyn?”
“She’s
hanging in there, but she’s very worried. I want to keep her in med lab till
this is over.”
“Wise
decision,” Al commented and closed his eyes as the mumbling grew louder and
shocked he realized something else. “Are there still telepaths in cryo,
carrying implants?”
“Yes,”
Franklin looked up as Al’s heartbeat quickened.
“I can
feel them,” Al sighed depressed, “You have to remove their implants too.”
“I
will,” Franklin promised and suppressed a shiver, “Is there anything I can do
to help you adjust to the implants?” His mind was still trying to deal with the
fact that Al was able to sense the telepaths’ minds in the cryo tubes.
“No,
I’ve got to this on my own.” Al closed his eyes completely and fought down his
sudden fear as the scream of a Shadow pierced his thoughts. //They are trying
to locate me!// he realized and strengthened his blocks. //They can’t find me
yet!//
Franklin
shook his head in distress, realizing he had to monitor Al very closely.
The
next 23 hours crept by and everyone tried killing time in their own way.
Franklin kept a vigil at Al’s bed while Susan and Carolyn stayed in med lab.
Ivanova did her best to sooth Carolyn’s fear, but felt nervous now Marcus was
about to return. His shuttle could dock any moment now and as she finally
received confirmation that he had come onboard she excused herself, hoping
Carolyn would stay asleep. Doctor Hobbes had given the telepath something to
relax.
As she
headed for her quarters goose flesh appeared on her skin. In a couple of hours
they would face the Shadows and there was a chance not everyone would survive
that fight. Susan had reached a decision. //I’m going to deflower Marcus now!
No matter what will happen in battle I’m not going to let him die a virgin!//
No
stories or pieces of artwork are meant to infringe upon the copyright held by
J. Michael Straczynski, Babylonian Inc. or Time Warner Productions.
Marcus
immediately left the docking bay and headed for Ivanova’s quarters. Basically
he had to check in with Delenn first, but decided that 5 minutes wouldn’t make
that great a difference. First he had to reassure Susan that he was all right
and then he would see Delenn to get his instructions.
Lt.
Corwin had informed him on a secured channel about the upcoming fight. Marcus
had smiled when he had heard that Stephen had found a way to return Carolyn to
Al. //It must mean a lot to Al to hold her in his arms again.//
But
some of the news had also disturbed him, like hearing about the implants in
Al’s brain and their insane plan to beat the Shadows. //I know Al wants to free
those telepaths inside the Shadow vessels, but this might backfire on him!//
Before
he knew it, he was standing in front of Ivanova’s quarters. Pressing the door
chime he hoped she was in. He didn’t look forward to hauling her out of C&C
when she was in Commander mode!
The
door opened and carefully peeking around the corner he realized she was lying
on the sofa. Her brow was knitted in worry and her eyes fatigued. “Hello, love,
just wanted to let you know…”
She
didn’t give him a chance to end his sentence. “Marcus!” she exclaimed and
jumped to her feet. “I hoped you would arrive before the fighting started!”
Quickly, she covered the distance separating them and smiled brightly. “I
missed you, damnit!”
“I
missed you too, darling,” Marcus quipped; delighted to see her eyes light up.
Susan
took the initiative and folded her arms around him, pulling him into her
quarters. Something in his demeanor had changed and Susan took a step back to
study him. //Your eyes look different!// she realized and stopped herself just
in time from probing his mind.
“I was
only gone for 6 days!” Marcus reminded her and followed her to the couch.
“But
now you’re back!” she sighed and sat down.
Marcus
seated himself next to her and stroked her long hair as she rested her head
against his chest. Her body pressed into his and his fingers itched to explore
all those seductive feminine curves. “You’re not wearing your uniform?” he
wondered, feeling the soft fabric of her blue tunic underneath his fingertips.
“John
gave me some hours off…” Susan explained. Sheridan had ordered her to get some
rest before leaving the station. She would be piloting the shuttle and he
wanted her in prime shape.
“I
heard about the Corps and Shadows working together…” he whispered and wondered
why she was looking at him in this peculiar way. //Her look spells trouble!//
“Marcus?
We still got two hours before we have to report in,” she said in a soft tone
and teasingly moved her hands through his hair.
“What are you suggesting?” Marcus asked in a shaky tone, finally
recognizing desire in her eyes.
“Can’t
let you go into battle a virgin,” she hinted and brushed his lips lightly. A
soft moan, which escaped his lips filled the air and she grinned wickedly.
“Tell me, how far did you go with the girls you dated? You may be a virgin, but
hardly a saint!”
Slightly
flushed Marcus lowered his eyes to look at her hands, tracing each finger
slowly. “Kissing, awkward fumbling in the dark…”
“Yes?”
she said and peeked at his clouded eyes. He was not telling her the entire
truth.
“Once
I got assigned to protect this woman… had to take her safely to Verdana 4,” he
whispered and leaned back as Susan pushed him down. Her face hovered above his
and she slowly covered his body with hers.
“Tell
me,” she challenged him, enjoying his embarrassment.
“We shared
small quarters and she…” Marcus trembled feeling her hands slip underneath his
shirt. She had unclasped his belt and was now trying to unzip his trousers too
and he forgot what he’d wanted to say.
“I
think I can guess,” Susan quipped amused, “She gave you a blowjob?”
“Uh,
yes?” Marcus stuttered as she raised her arms to pull the tunic over her head
to free herself of the restrictive garment.
//She
is wearing nothing underneath it!// he realized, gulped and then hungrily
licked his lips. Her nipples had already hardened and he rubbed a thumb over
those hard nubs of flesh. //She planned this!// he thought and didn’t know how
to feel about that.
He
wanted to say something and she quickly placed her fingers on top of his lips.
“Don’t speak, Marcus…”
Obediently
he nodded once and decided to let her have her way with him. //I wonder what
her plans are...// His intention of reporting to Delenn had disappeared and he
caught the subtle shift in her eyes as they softened.
“Let’s
get you out of all those clothes!” she said and got rid of his tunic and
turtleneck. She quickly realized he was erect and slid her hand underneath the
fabric of his trousers. “I’m sorry we don’t have the time to…”
“Shsst.”
Marcus placed his hand at the back of her neck and pulled her close to kiss
her. “I waited over 30 years for this… Whatever you’re willing to give me… I
want it…”
His
firm tone made her quaver. “I want you too!” she whispered and broke away from
the embrace. Getting to her feet she removed her trousers and watched his
reaction. No longer able to block his surface thoughts she sensed his
admiration and love. “Come here…” she whispered and lay down on the floor.
Extending her hands she waited for him to join her.
Marcus
wished for the return of her warm body and rose to his feet as well. Slowly he
removed his boots, socks, trousers and underwear. A soft groan made him smile.
“You’re
big,” she quipped, seeing him aroused and ran her eyes all over his body. A few
scars told of the fights he had been in, but his body was lean and agile.
Teasingly she moved her tongue over her lips, taking a bit longer than strictly
necessary.
Marcus
closed his eyes briefly as unrivaled desire ran through his body and gathered
in his groin. Kneeling beside her he leaned in closer to continue the kiss she
had started. Her teeth opened and he slowly explored the inside of her mouth.
Her tongue challenged his and he gladly gave in to the duel.
Susan
sighed as Marcus placed his body on top of hers and she nudged her knees apart,
eager to feel his manhood against her already moist core.
“Susan?”
Marcus whispered as she released his lips to draw a deep breath. “I love you,
Susan Ivanova.”
Smiling
contently she arched her back as his fingers rubbed her clitoris. His action
surprised her… // I wonder how much research you did to prepare for this
special first time,// she mused and was surprised to hear him chuckle.
“Ah,
Susan…” Marcus started, amazed at hearing her mind voice and knew she hadn’t
cast it into his mind on purpose. “Lots of theory, love…”
“I did
what?” Susan suddenly realized what had happened and smiled weakly. “Al told me
to work on my blocks…”
“I once heard,” Marcus whispered and suckled
her nipple momentarily while one of his fingers entered her, “that an orgasm is
the hardest thing to block for a telepath… Does that mean I’m going to come
twice?”
“You…!”
Lost for words she wondered about his eagerness to take the initiative. For
some reason she had assumed he would be timid and passive. //No matter how shy
he sometimes acts he’s still a man who knows what he wants,// she sighed
mentally and made sure he didn’t receive that remark.
Reaching
down she curled her fingers around his manhood and guided him inside her, as a
deep, primal urge surfaced. Malcolm had always been passive while making love
to her, but Marcus’ reaction had been a pleasant surprise.
“Impatient?”
Marcus mumbled, staring into her eyes, which had turned turquoise. Sensing her
hands on him he tensed. “Oh, my God,” he stuttered as he slid inside her. Her
tightness clenched him and she invitingly arched her back. He pressed his body
into hers, trying to change the angle and depth of the penetration to please
them both.
Feeling
him shift position she released a sigh and clawed his back as he started to
thrust in a slow, tormenting rhythm, almost pulling out completely to only
deepen the next penetration. “You’re… good at this!” she gasped in surprise as
his fingers sought and found her clitoris again.
Rubbing
her in a similar rhythm he realized he wouldn’t last long. This was all new to
him and although he tried to postpone the inevitable a shattering fire started
in his scrotum and spread through his groin. “I don’t want to leave you
behind,” he whispered and tried to stop thrusting.
But
Susan sensed the fear in his mind and smiled. //You won’t,// she told him and
this time she cast the words into his mind on purpose. Delight illuminated his
face hearing her words.
“Susan!”
he sighed and frantically claimed her lips. Orgasm was building in his mind and
his lips trailed down her throat, suckling the flesh there.
//I’m
going to come with you,// Susan moaned and opened her mind for his sensations.
Awed, she sensed the love inside his mind, and for one moment she saw herself
through his eyes.
//I
=want= to come with you,// she cast a second time and wrapped her legs around
his waist, quickening the pace of his thrusts. Throwing back her head she gave
him easier access to the sensitive skin his lips fondled and used one hand to
pinch his nipple.
Softly
biting her Marcus was surprised by his own behavior. “I never knew I wanted you
this much, love…” he revealed apologetically as an orgasmic explosion
overwhelmed him. Quickly claiming her lips he hoped she felt his pleasure
through their telepathic contact.
Susan
did and while searing on his feelings found release too. An intense throbbing
washed through her body and she felt his surprise as her muscles started to
milk him dry.
“Susan!”
he yelped and wrapped his arms around her. “I can feel you in my thoughts!”
//I
know,// Susan sighed and sent him her sensations. Clinging to each other they
hoped ecstasy would never end, but it did.
Covered
in sweat Marcus looked up at her. “We should have done this a long time ago!”
Susan
laughed warmly. “Not so long ago I flung roses at you!”
“I
kept them you know… They’re in my quarters, underneath my bunk.”
Remembering
the stunned expression on his face as he had caught those roses she grinned.
Quickly she checked the time and grew sad. Rolling him underneath her, she
straddled his hips and felt abandoned as he slipped out of her. “You surprised
me,” she admitted and rested her body on his.
“I
know,” Marcus replied, “You were right, you know… I’m no saint…”
“And
no longer a virgin!” she wisecracked while tracing circles around his still
rock hard nipples. “You’re ticklish!” she realized as he moved restlessly
beneath her.
“Stop
doing that,” Marcus asked pleadingly, but Ivanova reacted by stroking his
sides, “You wicked woman!” he cursed softly.
“You
love my wickedness,” she countered and wondered why it had taken her so long to
lower her walls and allow him in. //I love you, Marcus,// she cast and seeing
his smug smile she knew he had heard that admission.
“Come
here, you little tease,” Marcus whispered and sat upright, pulling her into his
lap.
She
calmed down and melded into his arms. //Marcus, there’s so little time left…//
and she knew she had to tell him Sheridan had picked her to accompany Al.
//Just hold me…//
Marcus
tightened his embrace and soothingly stroked her back. “Don’t worry love, I’m
here for you…”
The Abyss part 22
The end
No stories or pieces of artwork are meant to infringe
upon the copyright held by J. Michael Straczynski, Babylonian Inc. or Time
Warner Productions.
Marcus
stared at Delenn and tried to focus on the subject at hand. After Susan had
told him about her mission he had grown quiet, wishing there was a way to
accompany her, but Delenn had already told him she wanted him onboard of the
command ship of the White Star fleet.
“Marcus,
are you listening to me?” Delenn asked in a soft tone, seeing the distant look
in his eyes and swore it was a hickey she saw on his throat. Mentally chuckling
she realized what must have happened after his arrival.
“Yes,
of course, Entil’Zha,” Marcus replied quickly, “You want me onboard White Star
one. Will you or the Captain assume command?”
“I
will. The Captain will monitor all operations from C&C.” Delenn studied his
disheveled appearance and smiled. “Has the Commander already left the station?”
“No,”
Marcus whispered and blushed, “but she will in 30 minutes. She should be
checking the shuttle now.”
“And
did you have the time to talk to Al?”
“Not
yet, but Stephen asked me to meet him in med lab in 10 minutes to escort them
to the shuttle.” Marcus didn’t know how he felt about seeing Al again. Susan
had told him that the resistance had accepted him as their new leader and he
had been relieved to hear Al had finally revealed his true identity to them. He
did want to meet Carolyn as quickly as possible, eager to find out what kind of
person she was. It was the implants that worried him!
“You
are dismissed, Marcus. Go to med lab and after escorting them check in with
White Star one. I will join you shortly.”
“As
you wish, Entil’Zha,” Marcus said and bowed respectfully, realizing this
upcoming battle could decide their fate.
Watching
his patient closely Stephen packed all the necessities for their trip. So far
Al had been able to remain in control of the implants, but the doctor didn’t
like the paleness of his complexion, or the anxious expression in Al’s eyes.
//It takes all his discipline to control them!// Stephen thought and packed
another cartridge filled with a fast working sedative. “Al? Are you sure you
want to go through with this?”
“Yes,”
Al hissed and clenched his fist as another Shadow telepath tried to reach out
to him. The constant battering against his shield was draining him.
“Marcus
should be here any moment now. The corridors have been cleared and we will be
in hyperspace in 35 minutes,” Stephen told him. From talking to Al he had
realized that his patient was losing all concept of time. //And maybe of
reality shortly! I should never have agreed to this!// he berated himself
sharply.
“Don’t
touch me!” Al hissed as Franklin tried taking hold of his arm to support him.
Franklin
backed away from him. “What?”
“I
don’t want your thoughts in my mind as well,” Al explained in a much softer
tone, “Touch enhances telepathic contact.”
“Didn’t
know that,” Franklin muttered apologetically and wondered about Carolyn who was
asleep in med lab two. Al had watched her on screen for long moments, afraid to
come too close and startle her.
“Stephen?
Al?” Marcus said and halted in his tracks seeing the implants disappearing into
the telepath’s skull. “Al…” he mumbled pained and locked eyes with him, “I’m
worried about you… seeing you like this.”
“Marcus,”
Al whispered and smiled; genuinely pleased to see the ranger who had saved his
sanity weeks ago. “There’s no need to worry. I can deal with this.”
“Well,
it’s a good thing Susan will be keeping an eye on you!” Marcus remarked and
walked up to the telepath. “Thanks for helping her come to terms with being a
telepath… she told me you showed her how to use her powers.”
“It
was the least I could do,” Al replied and carefully shrugged his shoulders. The
darkness inside the universe was calling out to him and he fought down the urge
to meld with the spiders in his mind. “Can we go now?”
“Yes,”
Marcus whispered and exchanged a concerned look with Franklin.
The
doctor nodded his head, but couldn’t take away his friend’s worries.
Al
started walking and the two men had to follow. Concentrating on not stumbling
over his feet Al sensed their concern. //I’m scared too,// he admitted
privately, //But I don’t have a choice! I’ve got to do this or we might all
die!//
Susan
sat back in the pilot's seat and ran one more systems check. Al and Franklin
would arrive in a few moments and hopefully Marcus had found a way to say
good-bye to her before leaving station. He had been angry when he had learned
that Delenn wanted him on the White Star and not on the shuttle. Marcus had
hoped to stay close to her in the heat of the battle.
“Susan?
We’re here.”
Recognizing
Marcus’ voice she left her seat and walked into the back of the shuttle. Al was
the first to enter and she gasped seeing the implants. His hooded expression
scared her and she sensed the anxiety in his mind. Yes, he was in control, but
only barely. //God help us if he loses control!//
Al
caught that thought and couldn’t deny the truth of her words. Silently he moved
into the front and strapped himself in to the chair. Distraction might cause
the Shadows to move into his mind and he forced himself to ignore her thoughts.
Susan
shook her head, trying to ignore the shivers running down her spine. As she had
touched his mind she had felt the dark presence of the Shadows there.
Marcus
placed a gentle hand on her shoulder and said; “Keep a close eye on him. Al
looks… fragile.”
“I
agree,” she whispered and locked eyes with him. The glow to his eyes reminded
her of the way he had made love to her.
“I’m
sorry to disturb you two lovebirds,” Franklin said as he joined them, “But I’ve
got a patient to look after.”
“Stephen,”
Susan stopped him, “Don’t hesitate to sedate him when things get out of
control.”
“I
will, Susan. I know what’s at stake,” the doctor reassured her and crooked his
head to examine the inflamed spot on her throat. Grinning, he refrained from
making any comment and seated himself next to Al.
“I’ve got
to go now. Delenn…” Marcus started and pressed his lips one last time onto
Susan’s. “Be careful,” he whispered.
“We’ll
kick their ass, Marcus and once we’re back…” Susan couldn’t resist and added,
//we’ll get you some more practice!//
“I’ll
keep you to that promise!” Marcus quipped and slowly left the shuttle, hanging
on to her presence a little longer. Finally he stepped outside and headed
towards the exit. Delenn wanted to leave in a few minutes and he had to catch
the shuttle that would take him onboard White Star one.
“Everything
is going according to plan,” Lt. Corwin told the Captain, who was monitoring
the departure of Susan’s shuttle.
John
disliked the fact that so much depended on Al’s part in this plan. “Keep in
contact with the shuttle. I want updates every five minutes!”
“Yes,
sir,” Lt. Corwin acknowledged, “And I’ve got White Star one for you on a
secured channel, sir.”
“Put
her through,” John said and leaned forward in his chair. He had tried talking
Delenn into abandoning her plan but she had been determined to lead the rangers
into battle herself.
The
screen suddenly showed the bridge of the White Star and he felt worried seeing
Delenn’s smile.
“John,”
Delenn started and smiled reassuringly, “The White Star fleet is ready to
engage in battle.”
Marcus,
seated to her left, shared the Captain's feelings and wished Delenn had stayed
onboard the space station too. Running his fingers over the controls he
immediately registered the alarm. “Entil'Zha, Captain, you better tell Susan to
make that jump into hyperspace… I’m picking up scout ships… Shadows!”
“Tell
her to jump now,” Sheridan barked at Corwin as adrenaline rushed through his
veins. This was it!
“ I
heard that,” Susan confirmed and fed the ship’s computer all necessary data,
“Making the jump… now!”
Marcus
watched the ship disappear into the jump gate and suppressed his fear. She was
out of his reach now and if anything happened she was on her own.
Al inhaled deeply. Entering hyperspace was a truly horrific experience this time. The implants
tore at his mind, telling him to unite with the other Shadow vessels and he bit
his lip, drawing blood, focusing on it.
//Answer
us… join us… become one with us… we are the same… we are you!//
//Get
out of my head!// Al screamed and stared at the controls, trying to find a way
to battle the slithering voices into submission.
“Al?”
Susan asked in a shaky tone. Al was seated close to her and she picked up his
anxiety without probing his mind. As he didn’t answer her, she hailed Sheridan
again.
“Yes,
Commander?” John said and jumped up from his chair. Her expression told him
something was amiss.
“Al
can’t keep this up much longer. We have to try and disrupt the Shadows now,
while he’s still control!” Susan almost placed her hand on Al’s to lend him her
some of her strength, but realized she couldn’t pilot a shuttle at the same
time.
“Stephen?”
Sheridan said, addressing the doctor.
“I
agree. The readings I’m getting show he’s balancing on the edge!” Franklin
studied the newest readings and grabbed the hypo gun filled with a sedative,
just in case Al had to give in.
“Marcus,”
John said, “How much longer till the Shadows arrive?”
“Jump
points are forming now, Captain… They =are= here,” Marcus replied and looked at
Delenn for further instructions.
“John,
we cannot wait any longer.” Delenn told her crew to prepare for battle and set
a course that would lead the White Stars into the center of the Shadow fleet.
“Okay,
Susan. Tell Al to go ahead.” Sheridan’s voice was firm and controlled, giving
that order. “Tell the squadrons to follow the White Stars in… and tell them to
hold off the attack as long as possible. I want to give Al a chance to get
through to the telepaths.”
“Yes,
sir,” Corwin confirmed and relayed all orders to the squadron leaders. The
fight had begun and couldn’t be stopped any more.
“You’ve
got clearance,” Susan told Al and noticed the pain in his mind.
//At last,// Al thought and looked at the
screen, seeing hundreds of Shadow vessels. Inside them were his telepaths and he
had to try and save their lives. //Listen to me,// he cast, finally giving into
the urge to reach out and link with them, //Brothers, sisters, remember who you
are… who did this to you! The Shadows are your enemies! Remember your family,
your loved ones… you can control the Shadow vessel you’re confined to. Tell it
to land on Epsilon 3, make it release you. The Shadows are afraid of us, they
can’t deal with telepaths… =remember!=// he cried into their minds and doubled
over as the Shadows tried to use the link to strike back at him. A terrifying
scream left his lips as hundreds of minds reached out to link with his to
discover if he was speaking the truth.
“Stephen?”
Susan looked at the doctor whose choked expression resembled Al’s.
“He
can’t take much more,” Franklin said worried.
“Captain?
Are the Shadows still attacking?” Susan asked and did her best to maintain her
mental shields, as the minds of the Shadow telepaths tried to lock onto her
too.
Sheridan
quickly checked with the White Stars. “Marcus? Delenn?”
The
ranger looked up from his controls. “I’m only getting static!” Reading the
results from a long-range scan his expression changed. “Almost 90% of all
Shadow vessels have changed course and are now heading for Epsilon 3.”
“The
will be destroyed by the planet’s defenses!” Sheridan exclaimed and wondered
how to establish a connection with Draal.
“They
will not,” Delenn interrupted them, “I told Al to direct the telepaths to
Epsilon 3. Draal will let them land and after the telepaths have been released
he will grant them shelter.”
“Why
didn’t you tell me?” John wondered and gestured Corwin to open a channel to
Susan’s shuttle.
“Captain?”
Susan said nervously, as Al collapsed in the chair, struggling for breath.
“He
got through to them. The Shadow vessels are heading for Epsilon 3.”
“Thank
God,” Susan whispered and laid in a course that would take them back to the
space station. Casting a look at Al she caught the tortured moan leaving his
lips.
Al’s
mind was afloat on hundreds of thoughts, which still fought the darkness and
all he could do was urge them to stand up for their individuality, for their
right to live as humans, not weapons’ components. //Remember your family, the
ones you loved…//
//WE
REMEMBER!// came the sudden overwhelming answer as hundreds of minds cried out
in anger and pain. //WE HEAR YOU… WE KNOW YOU…//
//I
can’t keep this up much longer,// Al told them as his head slumped forward.
Hundreds of alien minds had focused on his and the immense presence ripped him
apart. //Remember!// he cast one last time before he lost control.
Franklin
realized Al couldn’t control the link any longer and leaned forward to press
the needle into the telepath’s arm. “You succeeded, Al. Now let me take care of
you.”
Al was
in no condition to object and drifted into unconsciousness as a Shadow’s scream
pierced his mind in two.
“We
did it!” John exclaimed and laughed relieved.
“Yes,
sir we did,” Corwin replied and removed the sweat from his brow. This had been
the scariest moment of his life so far.
“Delenn?”
Sheridan said and felt exultant seeing her unharmed. They had hardly lost a
ship in this encounter.
“The
remaining Shadow vessels are retreating. They seemed unresponsive to Al’s
manipulation… we can’t help those telepaths.”
“In
time we might find a way,” Marcus offered hopefully.
“Maybe,”
Delenn replied and ordered the ranger to set a course for home, Babylon 5.
Marcus
gladly obeyed, eager to wrap his arms around his lover again.
“Acknowledged,
Captain, I’ll tell her,” Garibaldi promised and terminated the contact. During
these last hours he had been in med lab, constantly keeping an eye on Carolyn,
who was now slowly waking up. He had volunteered when Sheridan had told him he
wanted someone close to Carolyn while Al was off station.
Carolyn
hesitantly opened her eyes and reached out for Al’s mind. Startled, she sat
upright. “Al?”
“He’s
fine,” Michael said in a soft tone and straddled a chair, “The telepaths
listened to him and the Shadows had no other choice than to leave them behind
on Epsilon 3. The Shadows lost this battle… but the war will go on.”
“Can I
see him? Talk to him?” Carolyn suppressed Fiona’s casting and searched the
Chief’s eyes, afraid to discover lies.
“The
shuttle is docking at the moment. Give Franklin the time to remove the implants
first,” he advised her.
“Yes,
of course, the implants,” she murmured, “Please let him be all right… I want
him to feel Fiona’s mind.”
Wondering
about his urge to protect her Michael said reassuringly, “He will, trust me.”
“Status report!” Franklin said in a determined voice. He had just
finished removing the implants and realized there were hundreds of telepaths
waiting for him to rid them of the diabolical devices too. Thankfully Draal and
the Great Machine were looking after them now. //And then there are the
telepaths in the cryo tubes!// Franklin was determined to teach the technique
to a large of number of surgeons who could then help the telepaths. Most of
that would eventually happen off station. //Maybe the Minbari are willing to
help too!//
“Patient
is regaining consciousness slowly…” the assistant said and then stopped short.
“What?”
Franklin walked up to the monitors and studied the readings. “No! This can’t
be! Why would he be in a coma?”
“Sensory
overload?” the assistant suggested.
“Move
him to recovery, get Carolyn in there and watch them closely!” Franklin leaned
against the wall. //After this is over I’m going to demand a vacation off
station!// he promised himself privately.
“Carolyn?
You can see Al now.” Garibaldi tried hiding his discomfort. Franklin had told
him by com link that Al was in a coma and his only hope was that Carolyn might
find a way to pull him back.
“Something
went wrong!” she stated, sensing his troubled surface thoughts and almost dove
into his mindscape to find out what it was. //Stop!// she told herself and rose
from the bed and wished Susan were here to help her cope. But the Commander was
still being debriefed.
“Hello?”
Hearing
the unknown voice Carolyn tensed.
“Marcus!”
Michael said and shook the ranger’s hand, relieved he didn’t have to tell
Carolyn on his own.
Amused,
Marcus laughed at the Chief and then smiled at Carolyn. “Marcus Cole, at your
service.”
“You’re
the ranger who rescued Alfie?” Carolyn realized and felt a bit more at ease.
“Yes,
I am.” Marcus noticed the apprehension in her eyes and knew Garibaldi hadn’t
told her yet about the coma. “Carolyn, Al…” and he looked to Garibaldi,
uncertain who should tell her. But the Chief remained silent.
“What?”
Carolyn exclaimed and without giving it a second thought grabbed his hand. “A
coma?” she whispered and released the hold she had on him. “I’m sorry, I…”
“It’s
all right,” Marcus assured her. She had only seen his surface thoughts. He had
learned how to block a scan if necessary and he hadn’t detected one.
Carolyn
walked as if in a trance and didn’t notice that Marcus supported her. He had
wrapped an arm around her and Garibaldi was also alert in case she might
stumble. As they reached Al’s room Marcus lead her inside and then retreated to
the doorway.
“I
hope she can help him.” Franklin mumbled as he joined the Chief and Marcus.
“Susan is on her way over here, Marcus.”
“Yes,
she wants to be sure that Carolyn is fine.” Marcus watched the two telepaths
and knew what it felt like to connect on a deeper level from his experience
with Susan. //But it must be even more intense when both are telepaths,// he
knew instinctively.
“Alfie?”
Carolyn whispered and covered his left hand with hers. Probing his mind she
recoiled as hundreds of mind voices echoed in her thoughts. “I won’t desert
you, Alfie,” she promised and tightened her grip on his mind.
Susan
entered the room at that moment and swallowed hard hearing that promise.
Curling an arm around Marcus’ waist she read concern in his mind. There was
nothing they could do and she felt helpless.
Marcus
pulled her close, seeing the anguish in her eyes and remembered bringing Al on
board that first time. He had felt their loathing back then. //You gained their
trust, Al, like I said you would.//
Susan
nodded her head and couldn’t help sending him a reply. //I hated him back then,
but not any more.//
“I
know,” Marcus mumbled into her ear and focused on Carolyn and Al again. “Can
you sense his thoughts?”
“Barely,
they’re… cloaked,” she replied.
Carolyn
had overheard their conversation and felt strengthened by their concern. //It’s
the chaos you can’t deal with,// she realized as she touched his mind again.
Slowly she started to separate the mind voices, then deleting them from his
mind.
They
watched the couple and an hour passed by without any apparent result. Franklin
grew worried for Carolyn, seeing the fatigue in her eyes. “She should rest for
a little while,” he whispered to Susan.
“She won’t
leave him,” Susan explained, “Al and Carolyn are linked at the moment.”
“I
never knew he would go into a coma!” Franklin said and blamed himself for being
this careless.
//Alfie?//
Carolyn cast and only her voice echoed in his mind. His response was weak,
hardly a thought, but she managed to home in on it. //Talk to me, Al. I know
you’re tired, but you’ve got to wake up!//
//Can’t…//
The
reply seeped through the link and Carolyn opened her eyes. “He’s waking up,”
she told Franklin and was stunned to see the assembled group was still there,
looking at her. “You’ve been here the entire time…” she whispered touched.
Susan
let go of Marcus and walked over to the bed. “Sit down, Carolyn,” she said
gently and pulled up a chair.
Al
trembled briefly and Franklin immediately charged forward to run another scan
on his patient. “She’s right, Susan. Al is waking up!” he stated relieved.
“May
I?” Susan asked and refrained from touching Al before Carolyn had given her
permission. She wanted to know for sure Al was going to be fine.
“Yes,”
Carolyn said and smiled tenderly.
Susan
gingerly placed her hand on Al’s and suddenly realized that Carolyn had added
hers on top of theirs.
//Follow
me,// Carolyn cast and guided Susan through the myriad of thoughts and memories
inside Al’s mind until they finally encountered a radiant presence which was
struggling to get to the surface.
//Alfie?
Hold on to us,// Carolyn cast and together, the three of them made the journey back
to his mind’s surface.
Susan
took a step away from the bed, breaking the contact and smiled shaken.
“Marcus?” she said and immediately his arms wrapped themselves around her
waist.
“I’m
here, love,” he assured her and watched closely as Al finally opened his eyes.
“Welcome back,” he quipped.
“Marcus?”
Al whispered hoarsely and then realized it had been Susan and Carolyn who had
guided him back. “Thank you,” he mumbled and locked eyes with Susan, “Thank
you.”
Susan
simply nodded her head, leaned into Marcus’ embrace and together they left the
exam room. Garibaldi followed them, wondering what had just happened in there.
Franklin
adjusted the drips, rechecked the readings and captured Al’s gaze who had been
staring at Carolyn. “You’re over the worst, Al, but you’ll have to spend some
time in med lab.”
“That’s
fine with me,” Al whispered, “The telepaths…” and almost shied away from
Franklin’s eyes, afraid to learn the answer.
“Epsilon
3. Their implants will be removed shortly and I know Draal will look after them
until then. The Great Machine will aid him.” Realizing their need for privacy,
Franklin smiled once more and then retreated to his office to contact the
Captain.
//Al?
I want to introduce you to Fiona,// Carolyn cast and allowed Fiona’s feelings
to wash into Al’s mind.
His
eyes brightened, feeling his daughter’s mind for the first time. Awed he tasted
her signature and claimed Carolyn’s hand. //I will keep my promise,// he cast,
//I’ll be there for you… I’ll be a father to her… The Corps will never get
their hands on her!//
//Alfie,//
Carolyn sighed and rested her head on his chest, savoring his closeness,
//we’re both tired… we need to rest.//
// The
=three= of us are tired,// Al softly corrected her and caressed her fingers.
//I’ll always love you…// he thought and followed Carolyn into sleep.
The
end