Title: Code of honor.

Fandom: Babylon 5.

Parings: Marcus/ Neroon.

Rating: NC-17.

Disclaimer: No stories or pieces of artwork archived here are meant to infringe upon the copyright held by J. Michael Straczynski, Babylonian Inc. or Time Warner Productions.

Summary: Marcus' new assignment is to infiltrate the Raiders. Once onboard, he discovers the Raiders made a very unusual prisoner and are now holding him for ransom.

Spoilers: up to the end of season 3.

Code of honor.

Marcus worked methodically, trying hard to blend in with the rest of the crew. Standing out would get him killed and he had quickly adjusted to living with the Raiders. When Delenn had briefed him two weeks ago, he had seriously wondered if he was the right man for the job. She needed someone to infiltrate the Raiders, who had been targeting too many Minbari ships these last few months. So she made the decision to send in the Rangers and he was only one of a group of twenty who were infiltrating the Raiders' organization.

And what an organization it was! If someone had told him how disciplined the Raiders were he would have laughed at them. Well, the majority was well disciplined and obediently followed orders, but a small group was responsible for the atrocities committed by the Raiders. This small group misbehaved when boarding an enemy ship, raped the female crewmembers, and killed the people who were useless to them because no one would pay ransom to get them back. This group also delighted to torture the few prisoners they had onboard while they were waiting for the ransom money.

It was a dangerous mission, but one he had accepted without hesitation. Delenn had needed him and he was more than willing to live and die for the One; maybe a little more eager to die than to live and Delenn probably suspected that. Well, he had given himself away by challenging Neroon to Denn'sha, but it had seemed perfect at the time. Neroon was honor bound to fight him to the death and so the warrior wouldn't make it on time to Delenn's official inauguration as Ranger One. That Neroon could have killed him was just another benefit he had considered when coming up with his plan. However, the plan had backfired and he was still alive, now even highly respected by Delenn and the other Rangers.

"Marcus, the Captain wants to talk to you," one of the other Raiders said. It was a middle-aged man with blond hair and blue eyes.

"I'm already on my way, Mat." Marcus watched the other Raider carefully. Mat was part of that small group that he had to keep his eye on.

"Don't let him wait. He's in a foul mood today." Mat walked into the opposite direction and turned left, disappearing from Marcus' sight.

"A foul mood? That's just great." Marcus had met Captain Johnson only one time before and that was when he had convinced the man to take him in. He had staged an accident with his flyer after letting some of Ivanova's fighters firing shots at it. The flyer had looked like it had barely escaped and he had told his story to Johnson who believed him when he said he was a professional assassin, who escaped Babylon 5 barely alive. Demonstrating some lethal skills had quickly gotten him accepted within the Raiders. Still, he had to remain careful not to blow his cover.

Courteously, he knocked on the door and waited for the Captain to call him inside. When Johnson did, he opened the door and stepped inside the Captain's quarters. "Captain?"

"Marcus." Captain Johnson looked up from his papers and studied the newest addition to his crew. "I've got a special assignment for you."

"Yes, Captain?" Marcus met the Captain's stare head on. Delenn had instructed him to gather as much information as possible about the Raiders and if necessary, he was to eliminate their leader, Captain Johnson. He now hoped Johnson would entrust him with valuable information, which he could relay to the Rangers later. "What special assignment?"

"What do you know of first aid for Minbari?"

Marcus raised a puzzled eyebrow. "Enough. I met a few of them during my travels and in order to kill them you have to know their weak spots. Studying their anatomy is part of the preparation when you want to take them out."

Johnson nodded his head. "That's good enough for me." He got to his feet and gestured Marcus to follow him. "You know we have some prisoners onboard?"

"Yes, Mat told me he was guarding them." Mat had been bragging about his position, telling him that some prisoners were completely at his mercy. Marcus had been tempted to check on the prisoners' conditions, but that section was off limits to him.

"Mat..." Johnson's voice hardened. "I've got to re-assign Mat. He's no good dealing with the prisoners. That's why I need you."

Marcus now realized what direction they were heading in; the holding cells. "What do you need me for, Captain?"

"Mat... was a little rough with one of the prisoners. Normally I don't mind, but we're holding one Minbari for ransom and I don't want him permanently damaged. I want you to examine him and give him medical attention if necessary. Can you do that?"

Marcus wasn't sure how he felt about this development. He had hoped to gain access to the control center of the ship and now he was set to work in the holding cells? However, he couldn't go against Johnson's orders. If he did, the Captain would be less inclined to 'help' him later. "I'll need a first aid kit."

"It's waiting for you in the corridor. I told Mat to give you full access to the Minbari's cell and to leave you alone. If Mat gives you any trouble, tell me and I'll have him re-assigned."

Johnson signaled Mat that they were visiting the Minbari and that Mat was to stay put. "I want this Minbari in good shape, Marcus. He's worth a lot to his caste."

"I'll make sure he recovers," Marcus promised sincerely.

Johnson handed him a chip. "This gives you access to his cell at all times. Let me know if you need anything." Satisfied that he had taken care of this problem, Johnson turned around and left the corridor.

Marcus stood in front of the cell door and the first aid kit was next to the door, just as Johnson had promised. He quickly looked over his shoulder at Mat, who was making obscene gestures. Marcus picked up the med kit and used the chip to open the door. Stepping inside, he cursed the complete darkness. He couldn't work like this! Stepping out again, he closed the door behind him and walked over to Mat, who was smirking. "Switch on the lights in his cell, Mat."

Mat leaned back in his chair and studied his fingernails. "I told the Captain that the Minbari didn't need any medical attention and yet he sends you? Why the hell should I co-operate?"

"Because I'll report you to Johnson. He's already considering transferring you out of here and you like working here, don't you? If you want to stay you'd better do as I say!" Marcus hoped Mat would buy it, because he seriously doubted Johnson would actually take measures against Mat. The Captain was too busy with other matters and considered this one taken care of.

Mat's finger moved over a button on his control board. "Don't bother me again, Marcus."

"Thanks," Marcus said sarcastically and returned to the cell. After opening the door once more, he finally saw his charge. Judging from the remnants of the Minbari's clothing, he belonged to the warrior caste. Great! This complicates matters. A Minbari that belongs to the religious or worker caste would have accepted my help, but a proud warrior? This won't be easy!

He placed the med kit on the floor and cautiously approached the Minbari, whispering a formal welcome in Vik, the tongue of the warrior caste. Sech Turval had taught his students some words just in case they might need them. That knowledge certainly came in handy now. The Minbari however, didn't respond and Marcus wondered what to do next. He really wanted to establish some sort of contact before trying to touch the warrior.

A growling moan escaped the hunched figure in the corner and Marcus wondered what injuries Mat had inflicted on the Minbari. He knew Mat well enough to know he was a sadistic bastard who loved to torment his prisoners.

"What about Standard? Do you understand Standard?" Marcus moved a little closer again and then grew motionless, giving the Minbari time to grow comfortable with his presence. "My name's Marcus and I want to check on your injuries."

Another growl floated through the dark cell. He probably won't accept my help. Minbari warriors don't want medical attention while in captivity. Being imprisoned ruined his honor and he'll most likely try to lure me into killing him. How do I get myself into these situations?

"I don't mean any disrespect, my friend, but I really need to examine you. I brought medical supplies." Marcus took another step closer to the Minbari. "You should let me check on you. Once the ransom is paid they'll let you return to your people and you don't want to be permanently disabled, do you?" Marcus licked his lips, thoroughly realizing that an injured Minbari warrior was a deadly predator who could kill him within seconds, even while severely injured. He should have asked Mat for some sort of weapon. He had left his pike behind on Babylon 5, knowing he couldn't take it with him; it might reveal his identity when found on his person.

"All right, I'm going to touch you now," Marcus announced, letting the other man know what he was doing. His hand descended onto the Minbari's left shoulder and then he was slammed hard against the wall. The Minbari was on his feet, had moved faster than the eye could see and a bloody hand was wrapped around his throat, keeping him firmly in place. His feet were no longer in contact with the floor, leaving him nearly helpless. He could kick the Minbari in the groin, but that would only infuriate the Minbari further.

Searching out the Minbari's eyes, Marcus froze in shock. "Ne...roon?" What was Neroon doing here? Neroon's crazed eyes stared back into his without recognition. "Neroon!" Neroon was choking him and he was beginning to struggle for breath. "Let me down, Neroon!"

Something in Neroon's expression alarmed him. The pupils were dilated and his eyes bloodshot. Were they feeding Neroon drugs to keep him subdued? "Neroon, you know me! I'm Marcus! We fought in Down Below..." He'd used his last breath to utter those words and now Neroon tightened the chokehold instead of loosening it!

"How... do you... know my name?" Neroon growled the words; he seemed too far gone to uphold his usual dignified tone.

"Babylon... 5... Denn'sha..." At that point, Marcus wasn't worried about eavesdroppers; he could worry about them later. First he had to convince Neroon to let him live! He managed to focus his gaze in spite of the oxygen deprivation and saw the damage done to Neroon's face, which was covered in bruises. Dried blood clung to his temple and his bone crest was no longer whole. Parts had been removed and Marcus shivered, wondering what instruments Mat had used to ruin the bone crest.

Neroon's eyes were only partly open. They were narrow slits and the insane expression they carried began to scare Marcus. This wasn't the same man he'd met in Down Below. Neroon had been stripped to the core, leaving only his primal instincts in tact. The chokehold tightened again. He no longer had a choice. Neroon wouldn't listen to reason, not in his current state.

Gathering his strength, he kicked Neroon hard in the groin. An immense pain colored Neroon's brown eyes as the Minbari went down, finally releasing him. He quickly rolled away from Neroon and filled his abused lungs with oxygen.

Finding Neroon here changed everything. He couldn't leave the Minbari in this rathole and had to adjust his plans. Delenn would most certainly agree that freeing Neroon was his prime objective now. But it wouldn't be easy to smuggle Neroon off the Raiders' ship in his current condition.

Neroon had dropped to his knees and was now glaring at him. The hate in those brown eyes took him aback and made him swallow hard. "Neroon? I'm here to help you."

Another intelligible growl left Neroon's chapped lips. All he knew was that the enemy had ventured inside his cell and he was going to avenge the loss of his honor by taking the other man down. The need to survive was overwhelming and he tried to get back to his feet. It wasn't easy though as his injuries hampered him.

"Neroon, listen to me!" Marcus got to his feet as well and quickly opened the med kit, hoping to find a sedative, which he could inject into the Minbari's bloodstream. Neroon wouldn't hesitate to kill him if he got control of the situation. "Neroon, listen to my voice. You know it! You heard it before! Bloody hell, Neroon, I know you're still in there so start paying attention!"

Neroon stalked closer, but swayed on his feet. His knees gave out on him before he reached the other man and he collapsed onto the floor. The adrenaline surge had worn off and he was helpless now. He'd had his chance and had failed. Now the torture would start again.

Marcus slowly approached. In his right hand he had a syringe filled with a mild sedative. He couldn't take any chances with Neroon. "I'm going to help you, Neroon, but you've got to co-operate!"

Kneeling in front of the Minbari, he realized he was making himself vulnerable, but he needed the eye contact. "Neroon? Can you hear me?" Neroon's eyes closed and the Minbari fell to the right, his solid form slowly crumbling.

Marcus caught Neroon before the Minbari hit the floor and helped him lie down. "Rescuing stubborn Minbari warriors wasn't part of the mission," he teased gently. "You didn't help me when I was bleeding to death in Down Below and I should leave you here; an eye for an eye, but, fortunately for you I won't do that."

Now that Neroon had lost consciousness, he set about his task and began to examine his former opponent.

///

An hour later, he finished bandaging the last of Neroon's injuries. Neroon was in a worse shape than he'd originally thought. The Minbari had three bruised ribs, fortunately not broken, a broken wrist, possibly a compound fracture in his left leg and he needed stitches above his right eye. Neroon was quite a mess physically and he wondered what the drugs had done to the Minbari's mental state. He should test Neroon's blood, but didn't have the facilities to run more tests.

Carefully, he moved Neroon back to the mattress that lay in the corner of the cell and took off his coat to cover the Minbari with the warm garment. Marcus sat on his heels next to the warrior and realized he should come up with a plan; he had to get Neroon into safety.

He didn't know when Neroon had been kidnapped, but didn't doubt that the warrior caste would strike back at the Raiders. That left them in a vulnerable position and they had to leave the ship before the Minbari war ships arrived. The Raiders were fools to think that the warrior caste would pay the demanded ransom.

The door unexpectedly opened behind him and Marcus leaped to his feet.

Captain Johnson entered the cell. "How's he doing?"

"He's in a bad way. If you want to keep him alive, I strongly suggest you stop feeding him drugs. His neural system differs from ours and the drugs are doing a lot of damage. Physically, he'll survive, but you should tell Mat to stop beating him up." Marcus held his ground, hoping he sounded calm and not too worried. He didn't want Johnson to grow suspicious.

"I'll talk to Mat. Is there anything else you need to do for him? Otherwise, I want you to return to your post. You'll check on him again in two hours."

"You might want to give him some blankets. Because of the drugs his body temperature is dropping fast." Marcus gathered his things and closed the med kit. "I'll check on him again in two hours," he said, repeating Johnson's instructions.

The Captain nodded his head. "Go back to your station, Marcus."

He didn't want to leave Neroon alone in his current condition, but didn't have a choice. He wished he could stay a little longer to make sure Neroon was doing better, but had to obey the Captain's orders. Stepping into the corridor, he began to plan their escape. He had two hours to come up with something.

///

Neroon only pretended to be asleep, listening to the conversation the two men were carrying. He vaguely recognized their voices. One of them belonged to the Raider who'd put him in this hole and the other voice puzzled him. That voice brought back images of fighting in the dark, sounds of pain, and the stench of blood.

The two men left his cell and he was alone again. Trying not to breathe too deeply, he found that his ribs had been bandaged. When had that happened? While he'd been out cold? Why were they suddenly taken care of him after beating him up? If only he still had his Denn'bok! Then he could end his life and die with his honor in tact. Captivity was a valid reason to commit ritual suicide, but they'd taken even that possibility away from him.

Stretching his body, he hissed in pain, embarrassed to show his discomfort. His leg hurt the worst. Someone had tried to set his leg and had then bandaged it, but the pain remained. Struggling, he managed to sit upright. A warm coat had been placed over his chest, in an effort to keep him warm.

That voice... whom did it belong to? Slowly, his memories returned. A man had entered his cell and had greeted him in the tongue of the warrior caste. Hearing a human speak those words had infuriated him and after gathering his strength, he'd pounced on the man, slamming him against the wall. The stranger had talked to him, had said a certain name...

Marcus! That was it! Marcus? Why did it sound familiar? More words returned. Denn'sha... Down Below... Yes, he'd fought on Babylon 5, had tried to stop Delenn from becoming Ranger One and had failed because a human had stopped him. That someone had been Marcus Cole, a Ranger loyal to Delenn.

Now he remembered the big green eyes that had stared at him from beneath the long hair. He'd been trying to choke the life out of the other man and had never registered the familiar eyes. Marcus... Marcus was onboard this ship! What was the Ranger doing onboard a ship that belonged to the Raiders? Had he left the Rangers and joined the Raiders? Why was that hard to believe?

Shaking all over his body, he tried to banish the pain from his mind as his teachers had told him and after a while, he succeeded. He had to escape, had to leave this place and then return with the Ingata to extract his revenge! But he was in no shape to leave on his own and he refused to believe that Marcus was here to help him. He wouldn't accept a human's help to escape anyway.

Brooding, he sat in the corner of the room, trying to come up with an escape plan.

///

Marcus bit his lower lip, wishing he'd been able to come up with a better plan, but unfortunately, his options were limited. Two hours had passed and he was on his way back to Neroon, carrying the med kit Johnson had supplied him with. In his other hand he hid a syringe, filled with a strong sedative. His first stop was Mat.

"Mat, how are you doing?" He walked up to the Raider and his fingers twitched to bury the tip of the syringe in the man's neck.

"Just fine, Marcus." Mat grinned and used a dagger to remove some dirt from beneath his nails. "I had another nice one on one with the arrogant bastard."

"You went into Neroon's cell?" Marcus knew at once whom Mat was talking about. "Didn't Johnson tell you to keep your hands off of him?" His anger was growing, but he stayed calm and in control. "I'll report you to Johnson later."

"Knock yourself out, Marcus," Mat said, shrugging his shoulders.

Marcus moved a little closer. "Ah, you know what? Maybe you're right and we're getting riled up over nothing. Minbari are tough, they can stand a little punishment." He grinned.

Mat smirked, contently. "That's what I've been saying all along. They'll pamper him once he gets back with his caste. There's nothing wrong with avenging the men who were killed in the Earth-Minbari war." Mat relaxed.

That was the moment Marcus had been waiting for and the tip of the syringe slipped beneath Mat's skin. Mat's face contorted once the sedative kicked in and he slumped forward over the control panel. Marcus chuckled, amused, and hurried to Neroon's cell.

"Neroon, we're getting out of here!" He rushed inside and kneeled next to the warrior.

Neroon's uninjured hand shot towards his throat, but this time Marcus moved out of its way. "Stop fighting me, Neroon. I can get you out of here. I'm endangering my mission because of you!"

"It is you," Neroon whispered, calmly. "Leave me. I do not require your help."

"You sound a lot more like your usual charming self," Marcus remarked pleased. "Come on, get to your feet, Neroon. You're too heavy to carry."

"I said, leave me!" Neroon roared.

Marcus glared at Neroon. "There's no time to play games, Neroon. Swallow your pride and get your ass off the floor!"

"How do you dare to talk to me in that manner?" Neroon's eyes flashed with anger. "If you want to help me, supply me with a weapon so I can die with honor!"

"No one's going to die, Neroon." Marcus wrapped his arms around the warrior's waist and pulled him to his feet, regretting that he had to put pressure on painful injuries. "We can't waste any time, Neroon."

"Don't you dare touch me, human!" Neroon fought to free himself of Marcus' hold, but was too weak to break it. "I do not wish to be 'rescued' by you. You do not understand our ways! I have got to save my honor."

Marcus was tempted to use the lighter sedative to shut Neroon up, but he needed the Minbari lucid. "I arranged for a flyer, but we've got to leave now, Neroon, before they find out about my betrayal."

Neroon gave him a long, hard look. "What are you doing here?"

"Gathering information for the Rangers." They had reached the end of the corridor and turned left, heading for the docking bay. It would take them another ten minutes to get to the flyer.

Neroon felt conflicted. Part of him wanted to escape and return to his clan; but the other part demanded he saved his honor by taking his life and he hated Marcus for putting him in this position. "You are acting against my wishes! Put me down!"

Marcus tightened his hold and half carried, half dragged, Neroon into the docking bay. "You'd better shut up or they'll hear us coming! Contrary to you I don't want to die in a cell." If the Raiders caught him, they'd make him pay for his betrayal. He was putting his life on the line to rescue Neroon, but the warrior didn't even appreciate it! Stubborn Minbari!

"By Valen! Let go of me!"

Marcus had had enough. He was trying to avoid running into the Raiders that were guarding the flyers and Neroon was giving him hell. Slowly, so Neroon wouldn't notice it right away, he uncovered the second syringe with the lighter sedative and injected the drug into Neroon's bloodstream. He'd adjusted the dose and it would make Neroon docile and nothing more, at least Marcus hoped so.

"You... insect!" Neroon spat, feeling the tip of the syringe break the skin. "How dare you treat me like this?" He made one last, futile, attempt to get away from Marcus, but then the drug began to take affect and he went boneless.

"I'm really sorry, Neroon," Marcus started, hauling Neroon inside the flyer. "But I can't allow myself to be caught by the Raiders." He placed Neroon in the passenger's seat and studied the controls. Yes, he could fly it.

After powering up the engines, he fed the computer the password, which he'd obtained by hacking the ship's central computer earlier and the bay doors opened. "And we're out of here!"

Casting a glance at Neroon, he found the brown eyes dull and glazed. He really did feel sorry for drugging Neroon in this current state, but at the same time he felt some satisfaction as well. Neroon had left him to die in Down Below and he hadn't forgiven the Minbari for that. Neroon hadn't finished the job and Lennier had carried him to the Medlab. You should have killed me or have come back for me. Not leave me there. There was no honor in that.

He piloted the flyer away from the Raider's ship and allowed himself a moment to catch his breath and consider his options. The med kit was in the corner of the flyer and after laying in their course, he opened it, taking out the items he needed to tend to Neroon's injuries.

He changed the bandage he'd put over the gash near Neroon's eyes and bandaged the broken wrist all over again. During their escape the bandages had shifted and no longer offered any support.

I should probably give him something to drink. Mat had starved Neroon and the Minbari had lost several pounds. Marcus retrieved the second kit, filled with food bars and water bottles. "Neroon? I know you can hear me."

Neroon opened his eyes and glared at him.

"Neroon? You need to drink some water."

"I do not wish to drink any water," Neroon spat vehemently.

Marcus shook his head. "I'm trying to save your life here."

"I did not ask you to save me!" Neroon closed eyes again. The few words had drained him. "Where are we now?"

"We're on our way to Minbar. It'll take us four days to get there, but we've got enough water and food. We should be able to make it." Not even a polite thank you? Neroon, maybe I should have left you there to rot. He should know better than to expect gratitude, after all, Neroon had made it very clear that he didn't want his help.

"Why don't you try to rest?" Minbari were fast healers and Neroon's injuries would be gone within several days if his body was allowed the time to heal.

"You brought me here against my will," Neroon hissed. "You will answer for your deeds later."

"Sure, Neroon," Marcus said calmly. Neroon was falling asleep again and Marcus returned to his chair, sipping the water Neroon had refused. What had gotten in to him, abandoning his mission in order to rescue a Minbari who didn't want to be rescued? By doing that, he had disobeyed Delenn's direct orders. I'm in for a lot of trouble when I finally get to Babylon 5.

Marcus looked at the Minbari, now peacefully asleep next to him. There was another reason why he felt compelled to save Neroon's life. The dreams...

The dreams started after Neroon had visited him in the Medlab. He'd been high on meds and for a time he'd thought he'd only imagined Neroon's visit, but then Franklin had assured him that Neroon had really talked to him. That night the dreams had started.

Closing his eyes, he indulged himself and recalled that first dream he'd had while still in Medlab. In that dream Neroon had come to his quarters, had stepped inside and slammed him against the wall, much like the Minbari had done in that cell. But then things had developed differently.

Instead of choking the life out of him, Neroon's lips had brutally claimed his and explored every inch of his mouth. Neroon's knee had parted his legs, while his hands had kept him in place. Thrusting against him, Neroon had growled, bitten his throat and declared him his. When he'd woken up he found that he'd come in his sleep and had been quite embarrassed when one of the medical assistants had cleaned him up.

Even now he felt aroused, thinking back to that dream. He opened his eyes and studied Neroon's expression, which was peaceful and relaxed in sleep.

The dream also scared him. He didn't understand why he dreamed of Neroon in a sexual way. He was in love with Susan Ivanova, wasn't he? Then why did the dream still affect him?

There had been other dreams, following the first. In all of them Neroon had somehow claimed him. Remembering the erotic dreams he felt hard, demanding lips against his, strong hands were removing his trousers and Neroon was rubbing against him, sliding his erection against his stomach.

"Bloody hell!" Marcus suddenly snapped out of his daydreams. He had to forget about the dreams. They were a concoction, created by his subconscious, so he could deal with the fight in Down Below. They meant nothing. Nothing!

Concentrating on his instruments, he ran a scan of their immediate surroundings and startled. Two flyers were sneaking up on them. "Raiders, bugger!" Marcus set a new course, tried some evasive manoeuvres, and lost them again, but their sudden presence served as a warning that he had to keep a close eye on the scanners at all time.

///

"Neroon, you've got to drink some water. We need to flush the drugs from your system so you can think clearly again. Now stop being stubborn and co-operate!" Marcus was growing frustrated. Neroon had opened his eyes a few minutes ago and refused to talk to him. The Minbari also refused to eat and drink.

"Why? Why are you making things this difficult? The Raiders are still searching for us. I pick them up on the scanners every now and then. Neroon, I need you coherent and able to defend yourself." Again, he placed the water bottle in Neroon's uninjured hand. "Take a few sips."

Neroon stared hard at him. Why was Marcus pushing this issue and why, in Valen's name, did he feel so disorientated? His head hurt and his vision was blurry.

"It's the drugs they gave you, Neroon. That's why you can't think clearly. The water will help flush them from your body." Marcus was becoming exasperated, on the verge of giving up. He made one last attempt to talk some sense into the Minbari. "You escaped, Neroon. They don't have a hold over you any longer. You're free again and it's your duty to return to your people."

Neroon eyed the water bottle suspiciously. Mat had fed him the drugs by putting them in his drinking water. Slowly, he lifted his arm and sipped the water. It tasted different from the water Mat had given him, so he assumed Marcus was speaking the truth and was trying to help him. This water wasn't drugged.

Marcus smiled, pleased that Neroon was drinking some water at last. "How did you end up in their holding cell?" He sat down behind the controls again, but continued to monitor Neroon closely.

Neroon briefly closed his eyes, and felt ashamed, recalling the moment of his capture. "I visited another war ship and was on my way back to the Ingata. I was alone in my flyer and presented an easy target."

Marcus nodded his head. "What about the crew of your war ship?" He didn't know what position Neroon held in Minbari society. He only knew that Neroon was a respected warrior, who obviously had risen highly within the ranks of his caste as he had assumed to be given command of the Rangers.

"I do not know," Neroon said thoughtfully. "I lost consciousness when they damaged my flyer. When I woke up I was in that holding cell."

"Do you think they are still looking for you?" Marcus hoped so. They could use a little help against the Raiders.

"Yes," Neroon said, firmly. "They would never desert their Alyt."

So you're an Alyt? I never knew that. That information could come in handy later. Marcus gathered some food bars from the second kit and handed them to Neroon. "Try to eat something."

Neroon stared at the food bars in obvious loathing. "This does not qualify as food."

"It's all we've got. Take it or leave it." Marcus clenched his teeth, seeing Neroon's arrogant expression. He hoped the drugs would quickly leave Neroon's body, because the warrior's behavior was highly unpredictable.

"How much longer before we reach Minbar?"

"We've been underway for 6 hours now... that leaves about another 90 to go." Marcus ran another scan, checking their immediate surroundings. Those are going to be very long 90 hours. Neroon isn't going to make this easy.

Looking over at the Minbari, Marcus' heart missed a beat, remembering the erotic dream he'd had when he'd dozed off briefly. I've got to find a way to make them stop. I can't risk giving something away in my sleep. What if I come in my sleep, calling out Neroon's name? Embarrassed, he concentrated on the results from the scan.

Neroon noticed the sudden alarmed expression on Marcus' face. "What's wrong?"

"We picked up a tail. The Raiders are breathing down on our backs. There are four fighters. This doesn't look good, Neroon. They are heavily armed and we've got no means to defend ourselves." He'd barely informed Neroon when the first blast impacted. "Hold on, I'm going to try some evasive manoeuvres."

"You realize that if we are captured again I am honor bound to take my life? I demand you give me a weapon!" Neroon grabbed the armrests of his seat when Marcus' manoeuvres almost catapulted him from his chair. This time he refused to be taken prisoner alive. He wouldn't shame his ancestors twice.

"I'm quite busy in case you hadn't noticed!" Marcus feared they were fighting a lost battle. There simply was no way to get away from the Raiders' fighters. Another blast impacted and this time the control panel went offline. "Bugger! I can't steer the flyer any longer. Neroon..." A third blast hit, making it impossible for Marcus to finish his sentence. The blast slammed him against the wall and he slid onto the floor, bleeding from a head wound.

Neroon cursed vehemently, knowing things would only get worse once they were back onboard the ship of the Raiders. He realized they wanted him alive to get the ransom money and he couldn't bear the thought of being imprisoned again. There was no way of telling what they'd do to Marcus, who had betrayed them. Supporting himself by placing his uninjured hand against the wall, he managed to rise from the chair. His leg twisted beneath him and he hissed his anger. The control panel wasn't working any longer and there wasn't anything he could do to prevent their capture.

The honorable thing to do was to end both their lives. He would be courteous and end Marcus' life first, making sure the Ranger wouldn't be subjected to the torture Mat had subjected him to. His teachers had taught him how to kill with his bare hands and he decided to end Marcus' life quickly. Looking about, he caught sight of a loose cable that was sizzling with electricity. After giving Marcus an honorable death he would take his own life and die by electrocution.

Neroon dragged himself over to Marcus' fallen body and wrapped one hand around the other man's throat, gently squeezing the life out of him. However, a fourth blast rocked the ship and some debris was rocketed his way, knocking him over. He passed out and slid onto the floor next to Marcus, who was still breathing.

///

Ouch, his head throbbed and when he tried to open his eyes, a ray of light made him squirm in agony. At least I can still see. Marcus' hands moved over the cold metal surface beneath them and he quickly realized that they weren't in the flyer any longer.

Unable to open his eyes again, he used his hands to explore his surroundings. Finding another body next to his, he peeked through half open eyelids, just long enough to identify Neroon.

"You finally decided to wake up?" Neroon remarked sarcastically. "We are back in my cell." He hadn't sustained any additional injuries when the Raiders had captured them, but Marcus' head injury was still bleeding. He had even pushed some cloth against the gash to stop the bleeding.

"Head hurts," Marcus whispered, absentmindedly and leaned against the cold wall for support.

"You'd better get used to the feeling. That degenerated guard has already been in here, hoping you were awake. He mentioned 'beating the shit out of you', once you woke up." Neroon studied his cellmate. "I am sorry I failed to end your life onboard of the flyer."

"You tried to kill me?" Marcus couldn't believe the things he was hearing. Neroon was offering to kill him? "Why?"

"I want to spare you the torture. They will want some form of revenge for being deceived." Neroon moved about slightly, seeing that Marcus was collapsing into a heap. He made sure Marcus was now leaning against him and he was the only thing keeping Marcus sitting upright. "They will make you suffer before they will kill you."

"I know they'll want their revenge, Neroon." Marcus felt nauseous. His head was pounding and his stomach rebelling. I'm going to be sick... Bloody hell, I can throw up on Neroon! Then his anger rose again. "Don't you dare try take my life ever again, especially when I'm unconscious. Contrary to you, I do believe we'll find another to escape. Don't you ever dare ending my life again, Neroon. Do You hear me?"

Neroon wondered about his sudden concern for the Ranger. He should be mad as hell because Marcus had made his situation even worse by trying to escape. However, the Ranger's courage impressed him. Against all odds, Marcus had tried to smuggle him off the ship. Whether he liked it or not, he was indebted to Marcus, who had saved his life by providing him with medical attention and a lifeline that had lead him back to his sanity. He accepted Marcus' words for now and abandoned his thoughts of committing ritual murder to spare Marcus the agony of torture. "How's your vision?"

"Right now I'm not very eager to open my eyes," Marcus remarked deadpanned.

"Try to rest." Neroon cringed inwardly. He shouldn't show his concern this openly, but... Does Marcus know that I'm bound to protect him until I can repay him by saving his life? Marcus had saved his life and now he was honor bound to look after the Ranger. Custom stated that he had to follow his saviour, even if that meant leaving his caste and Minbar. Marcus held a tremendous power over him without even knowing it and Neroon decided against enlightening the Ranger. He abandoned the idea of ritual murder. He was obligated to protect the Ranger and made sure Marcus came out of this alive so he could repay his debt.

"Rest? Did you really say that? You are Neroon, aren't you?" Marcus teased, amused. The nausea and dizziness had receded slightly, but he was still wary to open his eyes again. "I'm sorry for dragging you into this mess, Neroon. I shouldn't have acted until I'd come up with a better plan, but you looked like you wouldn't make it much longer."

"You were worried about my health?" Neroon searched the Ranger's face, wishing he could search those green eyes as well.

"Of course," Marcus whispered, indignant that Neroon doubted that. "You almost killed me... that creates a bond, you know." The teasing didn't work this time. Bitterness echoed in his voice.

"You challenged me to the death. I gave you one last chance to reconsider."

"I had to protect Delenn!"

Neroon grew quiet, listening to Marcus' labored breathing. The Ranger was growing weaker and he was tempted to probe the head injury with his fingers, but that would only cause an infection, considering the dirt beneath his fingernails. His only hope was that the Ingata located the Raiders and attacked the vessel.

Marcus smiled weakly, wondering why the wall felt warm and surprisingly soft against his body. His hand sneaked higher and he was stunned to find that he was leaning against Neroon instead. Minbari warriors never allowed anyone to touch them and now Neroon was offering him his support? He barely suppressed the urge to open his eyes and look at Neroon and kept them shut instead, unwilling to aggravate his headache any further.

He simply had to accept the warmth and support that Neroon was offering him. If they made it out alive, he could ask Neroon about the changed attitude. Right now, he felt too light headed to worry about it. Listening to Neroon's breathing, he took comfort in the fact that he wasn't alone and tried to get a hold on the pain that was splitting his head in two.

Neroon felt highly uncomfortable, having Marcus this close, but his honor demanded he tried to ease the Ranger's pain. He already yearned for the day when he could repay his debt and save Marcus' life in return. Then he would be a truly free man again, free of any obligations.

Marcus' body relaxed against his as the Ranger drifted off to sleep. Neroon's jaw was set firm, realizing it was now up to him to keep them alive.

///

Neroon heard the approaching footsteps and tried to wake up Marcus, but the Ranger seemed unwilling to open his eyes. Maybe he was too exhausted; maybe it was the head injury. Mat's harsh voice echoed through the corridors and reached their cells. Neroon gritted his teeth as they mentioned Marcus' name. Mat was coming for the Ranger.

What should he do? He wasn't in any condition to defend them, but he couldn't let them take Marcus either. He rested Marcus' body against the wall and struggled to his feet. Mat would find him blocking his path if he wanted to hurt the Ranger.

The cell door opened painfully slowly and Neroon mentally prepared himself for the upcoming confrontation. When Mat appeared, a terrible anger rose from his stomach, feeding him the energy he needed to remain on his feet.

Mat leaned against the doorway, smirking. "It'll be your turn soon, Minbari bastard. Now get out of our way. We're going to deal with the traitor first. It's personal now, Marcus. You shouldn't have drugged me." Mat and three other Raiders entered the cell and approached the two prisoners. "Get out of our way, scumbag."

Neroon growled. He didn't know what the word 'scumbag' meant, but knew he'd just been insulted. "Stay away from him. He is injured and unconscious."

"We've got ways to wake him up," Mat whispered. He gave the other men a signal to move in closer.

"I will snap their necks if they touch him," Neroon threatened. "And your Captain wants me alive so you'd better reconsider your actions. I won't hesitate to kill, but you can't kill me."

Mat applauded Neroon lazily. "We're not going to lay a finger on you, bastard."

Neroon quickly turned around, hearing gas escape into the air. Suddenly, he realized their game plan. The gas invaded his nostrils, mouth and pores and he began to choke. Dropping to his knees, he struggled for breath. Infuriated, he realized that one man had pulled Marcus out of his reach and was now hoisting the Ranger onto his shoulder in a fireman's carry. He couldn't let this happen!

But as he tried to get to his feet again, his broken leg refused to carry his weight and he collapsed onto the floor. The gas was getting to him and he felt paralyzed. He couldn't prevent them from carrying Marcus into the corridor. He'd failed to protect his charge!

He coughed, attempting to clear his lungs, but it was too late. The cell door had closed behind Mat and he was alone again. He sat back and leaned his back against the wall, knowing from personal experience Mat would enjoy beating Marcus up and he hoped that the Ranger had enough will power to survive the ordeal.

///

A sharp and blunt pain rose from his abdomen up to his chest and Marcus' eyes flashed open. He managed to repress the yelp he'd almost released, not wanting to give his tormentors the satisfaction of knowing how much they were hurting him.

The beating had started when he'd regained consciousness. Two men had immobilized him while Mat swung some rights at him. Then another Raider had punched him hard in the back, aiming at his ribs and later at his kidneys. It didn't take long until he started coughing up blood. His face was also a mess. He sported one black eye and several bruises.

The worst thing however was the blinding pain in his stomach. Mat delivered another kick to his midsection and this time he cried out in pain. He curled up on the cold metal floor and the Raiders took turns kicking him. Please make them stop! Please make them stop!

Biting his lower lip until it bled, his next screams died on his lips, never releasing them. He didn't know how much longer the beating lasted, but suddenly the three men stepped outside, leaving him alone with Mat.

Keeping one arm wrapped around his stomach and holding the other in front of his face he waited for the beating to continue. The insane gleam in Mat's eyes indicated that the mad man wasn't finished yet. I have to endure this... I can deal with this... The pain doesn't exist... But the mantra Sech Turval had taught him years ago didn't work. There was just too much pain!

Mat sat on his heels in front of him and played with his knife, running it along bruised skin. "You really disappointed me, Marcus. First, you try to make friends with us and then you steal our most valuable prisoner. You wanted the ransom just for yourself, didn't you?"

In spite of everything, Marcus sighed relieved and wished he hadn't. The terrible pain inside his stomach doubled, leaving him breathless. They think I was after the money! Let him think that. In that case they won't look any further and won't discover I'm undercover. This is good.

Calmly, he stared Mat in the eyes and the Raider retaliated with a blow to his face. Marcus' head reeled back and lolled to the right. You're a sick bastard, Mat. Then the knife pressed against his cheekbone and he held his breath, knowing that Mat would cut him if he moved at all.

"Marcus, you can't betray us like that," Mat said in a patronizing tone. "You know what happens to traitors..."

The knife dipped beneath his skin and Mat cut his right cheek open from his ear to his mouth. Blood flowed onto the knife and then dripped onto the floor. His eyes had grown big, trying not to show his pain and shock. He was a Ranger and trained not to break! Mat would not break him!

A strong hand settled onto his throat and began squeezing. He struggled to get away from Mat, but his body no longer co-operated. Slowly he lost consciousness. Black spots danced in front of his eyes and then a soothing darkness enveloped him, taking him away from the pain.

Part 2