Lennier had insisted to take Marcus back to the bridge. The ranger seemed turned inward, pondering. Lennier tried to figure out how Marcus could have fooled them for the past year. He had to admit that none of them had really been interested in Marcus' problems. He was considered a pain in the ass and somehow his personal problems never came up. Lennier realized they had all tried to avoid dealing with Marcus' obvious pain. Was that the reason that Delenn had insisted Marcus would be her Zha'lafi? Realizing the strength in him?

" Lennier, do you hate me now?" Marcus looked at his feet. He was too scared to believe his friends wouldn't desert him.

" No, Marcus. It is who you are. Amongst us Minbari telepathy is a treasured gift." Lennier opened the door, revealing the White Star’s bridge. The crew was hard at work to reduce or repair the damage the Shadow attack had inflicted on the ship. Marcus watched their response to his arrival from the doorway, apprehensive to enter, worried about their reaction to his presence.

Damian noticed Marcus' return first. The middle-aged ranger had been though a lot in his time. But there had never been a leader like Marcus. Neither Marcus nor Lennier knew that Delenn had asked him to keep an eye on Marcus, to see if he was up to the challenge and to be his aide and bodyguard should he need one. Damian saw the wounded look in Marcus' eyes and realized that the rangers would die for him, should need arise. Delenn had chosen well, he mused. The other crewmembers tried to find a way to greet Marcus, not sure how to proceed. Damian, the oldest human rangers present, was very much respected by the others and decided to make the first move.

Marcus wanted to turn and run. No matter where to, just getting away from their wavering eyes. He watched Damian step forward and address him.

" We are honored to serve you." Damian bowed his head, his example was quickly followed by the other crewmembers.

Marcus felt Lennier pat him on the back. He relaxed, his crew had pulled through and seemed to accept having a teep running the ship. " Thank you, Damian." Marcus walked over to the command post, still shaky, staggering on his feet from the drain of his mental powers.

Lennier stayed close behind him, to catch him should he fall.

Marcus almost fell into the chair. " How is our situation, Damian?" Marcus was tired but he had to see his crew safely home. Nothing else mattered this moment.

" Jump engines were severely damaged. They should be online in 2 or 3 hours. We still have firepower and maneuvering capability. "

Marcus tried to clear his mind from all the turmoil he was feeling. He had never intended to reveal his secret like this but he hadn't been able to let them die. " Thank you, keep the course and try to get us back to Babylon 5."

" Of course , sir."

Lennier and Damian had been talking for a while when they noticed Marcus had fallen asleep in his chair. Lennier wasn't really surprised to find out about Damian’s hidden agenda. He was used to Delenn’s scheming.

" I think we better make him rest. Shall I take him to the sleeping quarters? I will tend to him."

Lennier nodded. The White Star had not met with any more disturbances. Damian walked over to a now snoring Marcus. He gently shook his shoulders to wake him. Marcus reacted by nearly jumping up from his seat, expecting malice.

" What is it, are the Shadows back?"

" Sir, please calm down. You fell asleep and I thought it wise to accompany you to the sleeping quarters. It appears we are no longer in danger."

Marcus protested. " No, I don't need any sleep. I will stay."

" Sir, you do need sleep. Otherwise you wouldn't be sleeping on the bridge."

Marcus hated to acknowledge it but the ranger was right. He had not yet recovered from the unexpected use of his powers. I will go myself. I don't need a baby-sitter."

" Entil'Zha asked me to act as your aide and I am determined to do so." Damian made it quite clear he wasn’t going to take no for an answer.

It left Marcus with no reply. Admitting defeat he nodded and got up. Damian followed him, making sure nothing would happen to their Zha'lafi. Marcus wanted to be alone but the presence of another soul soothed his troubled mind. He had spent too much time alone, he needed to get used to company, caring company.

They arrived at the sleeping quarters. Marcus looked at the tilted beds. He knew he could sleep everywhere, anyhow.

Damian walked towards the last bed. He rigged the bed so it would stay horizontal and waited for Marcus to lie down. " May I take your coat? You should make yourself comfortable."

Marcus already felt pampered. He needed to remind himself that Damian cared for him. He had to shut up the voice inside his head that was trying to make him believe he wasn't worth the attention. He succeeded. Marcus handed his coat and vest to Damian and lay down. Damian had already adjusted the room temperature so it would be comfortable warm. A nice temperature lured him into sleep. Marcus wanted to thank the ranger for his help but the minute he laid down he felt sleep creeping back into his mind. Damian looked at him for a couple of minutes, making sure Marcus slept calmly. Then he returned to the bridge, to assist the other crewmembers.

Marcus started to dream immediately, which was strange. He had not been able to dream for the last year. He found himself standing in some kind of garden. The fragrance of the roses almost numbed his senses. He heard footsteps and turned about. A Minbari was approaching the garden. He was still too far away to be recognizable. He was tall and walked in a rapid pace. Marcus doubted his sight when he recognized the man’s eyes. " Entil'Zha Sinclair?"

The Minbari stood now in front of him. He was wearing the traditional ranger uniform. Somehow this didn't make any sense to Marcus. The eyes definitely belonged to Jeffrey Sinclair but his features were that of a Minbari. Then Marcus understood. " This is you as Valen?"
" Yes, Marcus. I knew you would figure it out." Jeffrey Sinclair observed Marcus' appearance. Marcus was wearing his new uniform. Sinclair nodded, apparently satisfied. " So you made Zha'lafi now? I’m impressed."

Marcus was about to answer when Sinclair, //or should I call him Valen?// started to laugh. He wanted to say something about Sinclair’s sense of humor when he felt some one trying to wake him up. It was Damian, looking confused.

" Sir, there has been an incident."

" Why did you not wake me, damn?" A black cloud hovered above his head again.

Lennier and Damian enjoyed the pleasant peace on the bridge. The repairs were coming along nicely and though Lennier had heard the crew discuss what was going on with Marcus it was evident they would support Marcus no matter what. The fact that Marcus had revealed a secret that he was that afraid of to save their lives had really moved the rangers.

" We better stay clear of that supposed time rift in sector 14. I have no desire to go time traveling," Damian joked and even Lennier allowed a smile to appear on his face. The Shadow attack had bonded them together. Delenn had told Lennier of her trip into the past with John, thus discovering the truth about the great Minbari leader Valen. Lennier had not believed her when she had told him that the Minbari leader was not born Minbari but human.

" I am picking up some strange kind of energy flux in sector 14. I think we better monitor that."

Lennier read the results the Damian sent him.

Damian looked questioningly at him. " Should I wake up Marcus ?"

" I do not think that will be necessary. Let him sleep as long as possible." Lennier didn't think they were in any particular danger.

" The energy readings are going berserk!" Damian raised his eyebrow.

Lennier had to give in. " All right, go and wake him."

Damian turned to leave the bridge when the White Star was hit by some kind of distortion wave.

Lennier held on to his controls. The readings went berserk indeed. He and the rest of the crew were severely distracted when something started to materialize on the bridge. Lennier recognized the old-fashioned ranger outfit the person was wearing. Some seconds later a human was lying on the floor of the bridge. Lennier moved closer now the readings were normal once more. He could only guess at what happened. From the corner of his eye he watched Damian take off to get Marcus. Lennier leaned over the unknown ranger and turned him on his back. The human appeared to be unconsciousness. Lennier studied his appearance. He seemed to be in his late twenties, though he had to admit he was bad in guessing who old humans were. The ranger had shoulder long, curly, blond hair. A blond moustache covered his upper lip. His eyes were closed. He was well build, broad shouldered and tall.

" Stephen, I have a patient for you. I am on my way." Lennier didn't wait for the doctor’s response. He hoisted the unknown ranger in his arms and left the bridge, the crew trying to get things back to order again now the energy flux had disappeared. While carrying the human to med lab he noticed a strange metal object attached to his belt next to some kind of purse.

Stephen wondered if all routine trips were this confusing. He only knew to expect a patient. Judging from Lennier’s choice of words it wasn't Marcus. Stephen had expected to work on some medical issues during his trip but he realized that wasn't to happen. The door opened and Lennier entered. Lennier lay the unknown ranger down on the exam bed. Stephen stared at Lennier. He had not seen this Ranger on the bridge.

" He appeared on the bridge while we were close to the time rift. I have never before seen this ranger."
Stephen examined his patient’s vital signs. Pulse was okay and switched on a diagnostically device to start some tests. " He seems to be sleeping. Perhaps some side effect. I don't know. Let's try to wake the guy."

It seemed that wouldn't be necessary anymore. The ranger moaned and grabbed his head, shaking it fervently. " By Jove, what was that all about?" His voice sounded like velvet but determined.

Stephen almost cringed. " The guy has a British accent. May God have mercy on us..." Stephen complained with a hurt expression on his face. His remark made the ranger look at him. Dark brown, almost black eyes returned Stephen’s glare.

" So, who are you and what are doing here?" Lennier asked, searching for facts.

The ranger looked at him. " A Minbari? Where the hell am I?"

" You don't know?" It was Lennier’s turn to be amazed.

" No, the last thing I know is Jeffrey grabbing me and pushing this... disk-like... thing in my hands. Then everything turned into a black, bloody black hole..."

" Jeffrey?”

" Yes, Entil'Zha Sinclair?"

Stephen was trying his best to understand the man’s explanation but failed miserably. But there was something terrible familiar about him. " Why don't you start with giving us your name?" Stephen thought it a logical question.

" Why not, I’m William Cole, Will for friends."

Stephen had seldom been so astonished before in his life. He intercepted Lennier’s glare. They were definitely thinking the same thing. Was this the brother Marcus had lost during the Shadow attack he had described? For once Stephen didn't know what to say.

" Sinclair whispered something about delivering a message to a Zha'lafi? I didn't know there was one." Will observed their eyes.

" I don't know if you have figured it out yet, but you traveled through time and that device Entil'Zha handed you must be a time stabilizator. " Lennier weighed his next words extremely carefully. " You must have traveled some years into the future. In this time Jeffrey Sinclair has... returned to his origin and Delenn is his successor."

The name seemed to ring a bell in Will’s mind. " The leader of the religious caste?'

" Yes, she has been Ranger One for quite some time now."

" Wow, this is heavy stuff. Never expected to get into the sequel of back to the future. I don't exactly look like Michael J. Fox." Will managed to sit up and stretched his legs and started to walk about. "Where are we? " The surroundings had him guessing.

" This is a White Star, a space ship equipped with Minbari and Vorlon technology. We use it to fight the Shadows."

Will shivered as they mentioned that word. " Shadows... unholy things."

Stephen was puzzled, there was one more question he needed to ask William Cole. " What’s the last thing you remember happening in your time?"

Will turned towards him. His face was ghostly pale, his eyes glimmering with some unnamed rage. " I returned home to warn my family of the coming Shadow-attack. My brother didn't believe me... The Shadows attacked and we were crashing. The last thing I remember is lying on the poisonous ground, dying, my brother holding me... invading my mind, the teep couldn't keep out."

A lot of hurt and anger could be heard in Will’s voice. Now Stephen comprehended a bit more why Marcus had such a hard time dealing with his telepathy. Apparently there was a lot of pain in his past when it came down to experiences with using his powers. Stephen forced himself to refrain from a comment. He was certain that the moment Will found out who was Zha’lafi, there would be a new war.

" Will you take me to your Zha'lafi? I need to deliver the purse Sinclair gave me."

" I don't know if that is such a great idea." Stephen was reluctant to comply. At least he wanted the chance to inform Marcus of the return of his brother to the living. Knowing Marcus' mental state as he did Stephen was afraid Marcus would have a total breakdown, being confronted by his brother.

Suddenly the door opened and Damian rushed inside. Following him was Marcus, out of his cloak and vest, only wearing his trousers and turtleneck.
Marcus searched the room, sensing the unease in Stephen’s mind. A ranger slowly turned around. Marcus thought he was about to be swallowed by hell when he recognized his brother's face.

Marcus looked at his brother in sheer horror. This couldn't be happening. Impossible, he had witnessed his brother’s death that night on Arisia. But it was William, no doubt about it. He knew his brother.

William returned the stare, just as bewildered as Marcus was. It was William who managed to break free from the feeling of terror first as he remembered the pain with which Marcus had entered his mind, moments before he would die. William’s face changed expression so quickly that Stephen held his breath. The look on William’s face was not friendly, or caring. It was cold and anger started to build up in his body, tensing visibly. Stephen wanted to interfere but didn't know how. It was up to the two brothers to work this out.

" You!!!! It is really you, you bastard. Couldn't stay out of my mind when I was dying, could you? "

The words echoed in the room, almost knocking Marcus off his feet. He was still trying to deal with this unexpected visitor from the past. He and William had never been soul mates but they were brothers nonetheless with all emotions involved. Marcus was in no state to answer the accusation. After all, it was the truth. Marcus attempted speech but no words came from his mouth. William approached him and Marcus knew how furious his brother had to be.

" Never again do that, Marc!!"

Marcus was taken by surprise when William punched him in the face. Hell, they had fought before. But never had there been this edge to it. Marcus accepted the blow, feeling William was entitled to be outraged by his trespass in to his mind. But it hurt. The emotional hurt greater than the physical one. It hurt badly. Marcus took a step back and tried to compose himself. He had to remain calm. It would seem the attack on Arisia was still fresh in William’s mind. Marcus had not counted on Damian’s defensive behavior. The experienced warrior grabbed William’s arm, securing him. No one was to attack their Zha'lafi, certainly not a ranger!

“ Get off me!" William hissed the remark at Damian, who held his own, unimpressed. William flexed his muscles, hoping to break free, but discovered the older man’s amazing strength.

" Let him go, Damian. He has every right to be angry with me. I... think it’s better I leave. My presence is upsetting you, Wil...liam." Marcus stuttered while pronouncing his name. He felt the sting of the blow on his face, but ignored it. Marcus turned to leave when William’s voice called him back. Marcus expected another tirade but this time William’s voice sounded calm, almost curious.

" What are you doing on a Minbari ship? Why are you not trying to salvage whatever possible from the colony? You always wanted to be the boss in town..."

Marcus didn't look at William. He couldn't, he felt too ashamed. Hearing his question his brain was slow to formulate an answer. His voice trembled when he answered his brother after an uncomfortable silence. " There was nothing to salvage." Then he walked out the door.

" Lennier, watch our guest. I’m going after him." Stephen didn't wait for any reply but followed Marcus out the door.

Damian took up position at the doorway, making sure William wouldn't head for Marcus. Damian felt guilty and incompetent. He had allowed Marcus to be hit. When Delenn would find out, she wouldn't be pleased with him. He wanted to avoid making the same mistake twice and in preventing William to leave med lab Marcus would be safe.

William turned to Lennier who was observing him closely. The Minbari didn't show his feelings too often but now he felt the need to let go.

" You should think before lashing out at him. Did it ever occur to you that Marcus was in pain too, feeling his brother dying in his arms?”

" Marcus? You must be kidding. The only thing he cares about is money. I tried to warn him of the Shadows but he refused to warn the workers because work would suffer and he wouldn't make the usual profit. Don't tell me he cares." William sounded convinced and determined.

Lennier shook his head. He couldn't envision Marcus as a money shark. The ranger didn't have many personal belongings and the only money he had at his disposal was a small allowance paid to all rangers. It was obvious that William had to learn a lot about his own brother. Lennier only hoped Marcus was strong enough to deal with that.

" Marcus, stop running. I’m in no shape to keep up with you."

Marcus wavered but stopped to wait for Stephen.

Falling in pace with him Stephen tried to guess Marcus' state of mind. He still feared the ranger could collapse after all because of the strain he had been through these last hours. " I thought you two liked each other, being brothers and all that?"
Marcus took a deep breath, he refused to look at Stephen. " It is not that simple. I was a brat when all this happened. I changed after his death, joining the rangers and having to deal with all the guilt. You know, there were times I fantasized about having him back in my life, but I never imagined it would be like this. I’m going to get Sinclair for this, even if I have to go down to Draal himself and kidnap one of those Zathras characters to ensure I can travel back in time."
" Sinclair? What has he to do with this?"
" Before Will appeared I had this uncanny dream involving Jeffrey Sinclair, in his guise as Valen. He was laughing at me. Face it, who else is able to send someone through time like that?"
" Now that you mention it. He said something of having to deliver a message from Sinclair to you."

" Me?"

" Well, to the Zha'lafi. Those were the words he used."

" Now I’m sure Sinclair is behind this, but why?" Marcus remembered Sinclair’s smile when he said he was impressed by him being Delenn’s Zha'lafi.

" So, what are you going to do now?" Stephen wished the reunion of the Cole Brothers had been a happier occasion.

" Give him time, give me some time. I don't know. I’m still not used to the idea of having him around. My first priority is to get us safely home."

Stephen realized Marcus was blocking his feelings out. He had expected to find Marcus outraged or crying, but at least showing some emotion. He decided he needed to keep a close eye on the ranger.

" If you don't mind, I have to get back to the bridge. I have been neglecting my duties for too long now." With those words Marcus took off.

Stephen turned on his heels and walked back to med lab. Perhaps he could change William’s opinion of Marcus, at least he would try. He had a hard time seeing Marcus in pain like this.

Marcus returned to the sleeping quarters to pick up his tunic and coat. He readjusted the ranger pin and headed to the bridge. The angry face of his brother haunting him every step of the way.

All was quiet on the bridge. The crew greeted him with respect and he settled into his chair. He wished he had never accepted this mission. From the moment they had picked up Stephen’s medical equipment everything had been a mess.

The door opened and Damian approached him, bowing to Marcus as he started to talk. " I apologize for my incompetence. I should have diverted the blow. It is inexcusable."

Marcus could tell Damian felt he had dishonored himself by not protecting his Zha'lafi. " Forget about it, Damian. I deserve it. I am... relieved he got his out of his system." Marcus didn't want to make a fuss about it. This situation was already too painful to him to deal with it properly.

" There is something else, sir. He wants to be heard by you. He says he has a purse Entil'Zha ordered him to give to the Zha'lafi in charge in this time."

Marcus sighed. He knew this wasn't over yet. The hardest part was still to come. The moment he let the pain in to his soul it would devastate him. So, he shut out the hurt he was feeling. " All right. Give me 30 minutes. Then take him to the briefing room. I will hear him there." Marcus wondered how he would manage to face his brother for a second time.

William was pacing impatiently. He had not expected to find his brother here. He recalled Marcus' entrance. Only now he realized how much older Marcus had looked. The moment he’d hit his brother he had felt ashamed for losing control, but he remembered his near-death experience quite vividly. William had not figured out yet what was happening when Entil'Zha Sinclair’s hands had grabbed him as he was falling. Then he had been given that strange instruction that he was going on a mission into the future and accepting the purse from Sinclair’s hands. He had been faithful and hadn’t opened the purse but he could feel paper and something hard inside.

" Well, I guess it is time to introduce myself. Seems you will be around for some time. I’m Stephen Franklin, head of surgery on Babylon 5."

William was surprised. " You’re from Babylon 5?"

" We all are." Lennier mingled in their conversation. “ I am Lennier, Entil'Zha Delenn’s aide." Lennier did not extend his hand as Stephen had done.

William tried to memorize their names. They were interrupted by an incoming message from Damian.

" Zha'lafi expects you to meet him in the briefing room in half an hour." Damian addressed William by audio link only.

" I will see he gets there." Lennier terminated the conversation and studied Marcus' brother very carefully.

" You have not yet told me why Marc is onboard." William really wanted to know this answer. Marcus Cole and this ranger ship combined didn't make any sense. He had never thought Marcus would allow himself to be hit him like that. Marcus might be a bragging idiot but he knew how to defend himself.

" Well, I think you better ask the man himself." Stephen short cut the question. He knew Marcus well enough to realize he needed to tell his brother himself.

Marcus clung to his chair like he had held onto Susan’s love days ago. Bugger, it seemed so long ago that he had kissed her. Marcus had tried to contact her but she had left him a message that there had been an emergency in the docking bay area and she wouldn't be home for a couple of more hours.

Marcus refused to rehearse the meeting he was going to have with William. He dreaded the moment Will would find out he was a ranger. Marcus fooled around with his pike, trying to take his mind off the upcoming meeting.

The door chime rang and he whispered the first line of a prayer to Valen, halted, realizing he was praying to Sinclair. The man responsible for all this misery he was in.

William followed Lennier into the room. Automatically he bowed his head to the ranger present, not yet taking in his appearance. Then he raised his head and looked at the man who had been chosen to be the next Entil'Zha. He had to shake his head to assure himself he was not dreaming.

" I hear you have got a message for me?"

" What kind of sick joke is this, Marcus? That uniform is sacred to us rangers. You’re disgracing it." William’s tone was biting cold.

Marcus felt his courage disappear and wanted to die.

" No, you are wrong, William Cole. Marcus is a ranger and was chosen by Delenn to be her successor. He has survived the Chulendra and the poisonous Tirash. I think you should start paying him the respect he deserves."

Marcus could have sworn there had been anger in Lennier’s voice. He avoided William’s look when he answered Lennier. " Lennier, don't be to hard on him. He nearly died and then he travels forward in time to find his... brother. I don't think that was on his mind when he left Jeffrey Sinclair."

William had trouble accepting this reality in which Marcus was a ranger and his superior. William handed him the purse, touching Marcus' hand to assure himself Marcus was real. His brother looked up at the strange gesture but remained silent. He would handle this in a formal way, giving both of them the chance to recuperate.

Marcus opened the purse and a paper fell into his hands. He knew the handwriting.

#Marcus,

There are 2 data crystals and a letter in this purse. One crystal has your name on it. The letter and second crystal is for William, please make sure he gets them and Marcus, watch the crystal.

Sinclair.#

Marcus uncovered the 2 crystals and the letter addressed to William. Marcus slipped the crystal meant for him into a pocket of his cloak. He pushed the other 2 items towards William across the table. " He wants you to have these." Marcus felt so damn tired. He hoped those dark black spells of depression weren't returning. He had had them for some months after William died. He had sat or lain there for hours, his eyes seeing nothing, his mind registering nothing.

William took hold of the items and looked at them.

" I advise you to go to Babylon 5 with us. If you wish to return to your own time or whatever your plans are I think I can convince Draal to help you." Marcus was afraid to hope his brother would stay. He desperately wanted to prove to his brother that he had paid and made up for all his past mistakes.

" I think I will do that. Is there something I can do to help out on the ship. I heard a crewmember mention the ship got damaged during a attack?" William needed more information about the situation he was in. His first rage was gone and he decided he was curious about this time and ship he was on.

Marcus considered his brother’s question. William knew nothing of the technology of the ship but could learn. He turned to Lennier. " Will you teach him about the ship's technology? "

" Of course. He can help me supervise the repairs."

William nodded towards the Minbari, then gazed at his brother again. " How did the ship get damaged?"

" A Shadow-attack."

William shivered. " So, they are still around?"

" You can say that. We have been fighting them for some time now, sometimes we lose, sometimes we win." Marcus wanted to end this conversation. The pain was nagging at the edge of his soul and he needed to focus on something else. He would watch the crystal later. He had absolutely no desire to look at Sinclair’s laughing face. " It’s best to return to the bridge." Marcus got up from his chair and had to steady himself for a moment, reaching out to the wall. Damian immediately rushed to his side. " I’m okay, Damian, only tired." Marcus felt the weakness in his limbs. He was doing this to himself, depressing and weakening himself.

Damian backed off. William noticed the concerned look on Lennier and Damian’s faces. They apparently cared a lot for their friend.

Marcus led the way to the bridge where he took up his position. " Rangers, I introduce you to William Cole. He will travel with us to Babylon 5 and has expressed his wish to help us where ever possible."

The rangers bowed slightly and resumed their work. Lennier gestured towards some controls, taking William with him.

Marcus was all the time aware of William’s stare. It made him cringe.

" Jump engines are back on line." Damian looked pleased, making this announcement.

" Open a jump gate and lets get home."

William watched, amazed at the opened jump gate. It didn't take long before Babylon 5 appeared on the screen. A link was quickly established.

" Welcome back, Marcus, Lennier, what the hell took you guys this long?" John Sheridan laughed.

Marcus gathered his courage to get through this awkward moment. " I will tell you and Entil'Zha after we docked. It’s a long story."

" All right, Marcus. Meet me in Delenn’s quarter after docking. I just relieved Susan from duty. She was so exhausted Michael had to accompany her to her quarters."

" Thanks for the information, Captain. I will meet you there."

The link was terminated and William watched the crew working together while docking.

" Sir, we have docked.

" Thank you, Damian. Will you see to the unloading of the doctor’s equipment?"

" Yes."

Marcus pulled his cloak closer and signaled Lennier and William to follow him. This debriefing wasn't something he was looking forward to. They were silent on their way to Delenn’s quarters. No one said a word. William took in the surroundings. Everyone they encountered greeted them and it took them 20 minutes to arrive at Delenn’s quarters. William was a bit excited to meet the new Entil'Zha.

Marcus requested entrance and the door opened. Inside were Delenn and John Sheridan, enjoying a cup of tea.

William couldn't stop staring at Delenn. He had never seen a person with human and Minbari features.

She walked towards Marcus and his brother. Lennier received a nod and he went into the kitchen to take up his work as her aide. " Marcus, who is this?"

Marcus bowed his head, feeling nervous. " This is my brother, William Cole."

" Your brother? But I thought he got killed during the Shadow- attack on Arisia?" Delenn began to understand the weary, haunted look in Marcus' eyes. It would be hard for him to deal with the return of his lost brother. Delenn extended her hand to greet William Cole. " You are welcome on Babylon 5 and amongst the rangers. I am honored to meet you. I hold your brother in highest regard. But may I ask how it is possible that you are here?”

William gently took Delenn’s hand in his and brought it to his lips. Very reverently he kissed her fingers, bowing at the same time. " I’m honored, Entil'Zha that you’d personally welcome me. I was chosen by Entil'Zha Sinclair to deliver a message to your second in command. I don't now why. "

" You traveled forward in time?" Delenn believed William. It was something Jeffrey Sinclair would do.

Marcus and Sheridan exchanged looks. Sheridan seemed to be enjoying himself. Delenn looked at William questioningly and managed to retrieve her hand. She quickly walked over to Sheridan and sat down next to him. She beckoned Marcus to begin his report. Marcus cleared his throat and knew he had to get it over with. " After we picked up the goods the doctor wanted we ran into a Shadow vessel. It started to fire at us. We managed to defend ourselves and it had to break off the attack. It had taken too much damage. Then a second vessel attacked us. We had lost our jump engines and we were sitting ducks." Marcus stopped.

Delenn noticed his restlessness and realized Marcus was staling.

" I never told any one before, you know... I managed to stop their attack..." Marcus was having second thoughts about telling the truth and the presence of his brother intimidated him even more. At that point Lennier walked over to him, resting a hand on his shoulder.

" You have to tell them."

" I know..." Marcus took a deep breath and plunged right ahead. " Promise me not to tell any one else, especially Susan?"

Delenn and Sheridan nodded their heads. " We will tell no one. What is troubling you, Marcus?" Delenn kept one eye on William who was looking intensely at his brother.

" I... am... a... telepath." Marcus was relieved he’d said it.

" What? A telepath?" Sheridan brushed his hair back, trying to hide his initial shock. He wanted to grab the ranger, shake him, for not telling them earlier. He wasn't angry with Marcus but why had he kept his friends in the dark this long?

Delenn was taking this better than Sheridan. She sensed Marcus' fear of rejection. " Why did you not tell us earlier?"
" I was afraid."

Delenn knew these three words were the truth. Marcus was full of contradiction and swirling emotions. Fear of rejection the prominent one; fear of becoming an outcast.

" Thank you for sharing this, even though it is a bit late. Were you tested?" Sheridan shook his head, disappointed Marcus hadn't trusted them enough to unburden his heart. Marcus must have suffered because of this secret. Sheridan knew they would have helped and protected the ranger no matter what. Marcus was part of the Babylon 5 family, considered member of staff.

" Stephen tested me after I managed to drive the Shadows away. According to his scanner I am a P 11 or P 12."

Sheridan got up and walked over to Marcus and looked him straight in the eyes in an attempt to calm the ranger down. He wanted to take away Marcus' fear… " Marcus, you know us, you don't need to be afraid we will hate you for being a telepath. You can be a great help in the war against the Shadows. If you are really that strong..." Sheridan didn't finish the sentence. //Marcus, a telepath.// Well, he had to admit he had been puzzled a few times. Marcus had intrigued him. He’d sensed the ranger had a secret, but this?

Lennier left Marcus' side but not before he glared at William, making clear he should support his brother in this matter. But William kept quiet. A more thoughtful look appeared in the ranger’s eyes.

" Marcus, you look like you had a rough time and your body will not have recovered completely from the Tirash. Why don't you and your brother go to your quarters and sleep for some time? " Delenn saw the blacks circles starting to show beneath Marcus' eyes.

" Thank you." Marcus bowed and William did likewise.

William followed Marcus into the corridor.

" I will take you to my quarters. You can sleep there. I have to make a visit before I can turn in."

William was too busy paying attention to his surroundings to worry about Marcus. He had never been to this space station before and he wanted to find out everything he could about it.

Marcus stopped at his quarters and typed in the security code to get inside. " The code is Desdemona. Make yourself comfortable. I will be back in an hour or so." Without looking at his brother he walked to the elevator and got on. He felt free, being alone again. He could hardly wait to see Susan and hold her in his arms again. He wasn't yet sure how to tell her he was a telepath. He was glad Delenn had not been angry with him but he had seen the short, strangled look on Sheridan’s face.

He reached Susan’s quarters. He didn't know her access code, he had forgotten to ask her, and so he used the door chime. A sleepy voice answered him. He hoped she would forgive his intrusion.

" Who is it?"

" Marcus."

The door opened instantly and he walked into the dimmed room. Susan was lying on the couch. It was evident she had been sleeping. He was sorry to wake her up. " I can come back later, if you want me to."
" No, stay, I have missed you so badly." Susan stretched and got up from the couch. She wrapped her arms around him, kissing him full of fire.

Marcus returned the kiss in the same passionate way. It was good to feel her warmth.

Susan sensed that something was wrong as she looked into his blue eyes and took his hand to lead him to the sofa. She pulled him down next to her and snuggled up to him. " What is wrong, Marcus? I’m a good listener, you know."

Marcus smiled. She knew how to read him like a book. " Something happened on the White Star. While we were close to the time rift an unexpected visitor from the past materialized on the bridge."

While Susan was teasing through his soft hair she watched him.

" It is my brother, William. I told you about his death..."

" Your brother?" Susan tried hard to understand. " But how?"

" It seems Sinclair sent him through time. He gave William a purse, which contained data crystals. One was meant for me and no, I haven't watched it yet."

Susan felt the turmoil he was in. She caressed his face, kissing softly his cheeks. She already knew what he was going to ask her. She would do the same thing should Ganya return to her. " You need to spend time with him?"

" Yes, we didn't get off on a good start. He is still... furious with me for stuff..." Marcus couldn't persuade himself to tell her he had trespassed in to his mind while William had been dying.

" I understand. I rather saw you stayed with me, but we are going to have plenty of time together. Stay with me till I am asleep?"
Marcus nodded, gathered her in his arms and carried her to her bed. He stroked her hair and it didn't take long till she was sound asleep. He kissed her on her lips before he left. How much he loved her. He would make the lost time up to her. He didn't know yet how, but he would find a way.

On his way to his quarters he pondered his relationship with his brother. He knew for certain his brother loathed the sight of him. William would be on his way as soon as possible. To get away from him. Marcus shoved the hurt back into a dark corner in his mind. If he would let it in, it would never leave again.

A couple of minutes later he punched in the access code to his quarters. Secretly he hoped William would be asleep, then he wouldn't have to face him. But William was awake. He sat in the only chair in the room, watching him as he came closer. Marcus noticed the opened letter in his hands. Ill at ease he moved to prepare the spare bed he had in here, just in case someone needed to hide for the night. Some of his contacts had used it. While making the bed he kept his silence. The silence was mind numbing.

" Marcus, we need to talk."

Marcus startled at his brother’s voice. He wasn't up to an emotional discussion. So, he nestled onto the bed, his back to his brother, his eyes closed, still fully dressed. His pike in his right hand. It was his way to sleep like this, ready for a would be attacker. " Lights dimmed." The computer followed the order and the lights were set to minimum.

" Marc…"

" Not now, Will. I’m terribly tired. I had a unbelievable rough week." Marcus monitored his brother’s movements by the sounds he made.

William moved to the bed, settling down. " All right, Marc. You win this one. But we will talk when you’re rested." William was determined. Sinclair’s letter hadn’t answered any of his questions. He recalled the words he had read. Sinclair had apologized for putting him in this position but after watching the data crystal everything would make sense to him. Sinclair promised that much. William found it odd that Sinclair insisted he watched the crystal in Marcus' company.

Marcus' bed was surprisingly uncomfortable. When he’d entered his brother’s quarters he had been astonished to find them that Spartan. The Marcus he remembered had always liked luxury. The only valuable things in here were the books Marcus had collected. William remembered all the nights he and Marcus had slept in the same room, telling each other bedtime stories. There were nights one of them had the occasional bad dream and then the other one would comfort him. It seemed like centauries ago. " Goodnight, Marcus." William didn’t expect a reply.

" Goodnight, William." Tears dripped from his face. This was so weird! For the last 5 years he had slept alone in his quarters and on his missions. Before that he had shared a room with William. He cried himself to sleep, hoping William wouldn't notice it.

But William heard the muffled crying. He wondered about the man Marcus had become. He briefly considered comforting his brother but wasn't sure Marcus would accept that. So he listened till the sobbing stopped and Marcus' steady breathing convinced him he was asleep. William allowed sleep to conquer him too and drifted into the worlds of dreams as well.

Marcus was having his usual nightmares again. He was haunted by his brother’s death.

William woke because of the noise Marcus was making. His brother was moving about on his bed, softly calling out his name. William got up from the bed and walked over to Marcus. Perhaps it had been a mistake not to reach out to his brother earlier that night when he had been crying. William shook him gently, trying to make him wake up. " Marc, wake up!" William was glad to see that Marcus opened his eyes. It wasn't like Marcus to have such nightmares. His brother had always been a sound sleeper. William had envied him for that, he usually tossed for hours till he fell asleep.

" Sorry, didn't mean to disturb you." Marcus composed himself and closed his eyes again, hoping William would leave him alone. It had been the strangest thing to dream William was dying in his arms and then to wake up to see him alive, standing near his bed.

William understood that Marcus didn't want to talk about what had happened. He felt sorry for the way he had treated Marcus till now. He was starting to realize that this was a different Marcus, not the brat he had known. William sensed the immense hurt Marcus was in. " Do you have that nightmare often?" William knew from experience that discussing the bad dream could keep it from returning again.

" I don't want to talk about it. Please get back to sleep. I promise I won’t wake you again." Marcus knew he wouldn't sleep again that night as William returned to his bed. Marcus checked the time; great, 2 more hours till they had to get up. He pretended to be asleep, making sure his breathing wouldn't betray him.

William couldn't sleep either. He crossed his arms in front of his chest and gazed at the form of his brother. This needed to be resolved. He didn't know this Marcus Cole. Something extremely traumatic must have happened to change him like this.

Marcus' thoughts kept running in circles till he slipped into sleep, half an hour before the computer would wake him up.

William, restless from the disability to sleep, got up and began to search Marcus quarters to find something to eat. He secured some teabags, cereal and milk. He boiled water and made tea. That moment the computer sent his wake up call.

Marcus groaned but woke. He was amazed to smell the tea his brother had prepared.

" I hope you don't mind, but I was a bit hungry." William brought breakfast over to the small table in the middle of Marcus' quarters. He handed Marcus a cup of tea.

" Thank you." Marcus warmed his cold hands on the warm cup. He rubbed the sleep from his eyes and sat down on the bed.

" I need to apologize to you, Marcus. I... shouldn't have hit you like that. I was so outraged that you entered my mind without my permission..." William watched Marcus' reaction to his words. Marcus avoided his gaze.

" Apology accepted, though I don't blame you for that. I... stepped over a boundary that night." Marcus stretched his painful muscles. " Computer, any messages?"

" Yes, one from ambassador Delenn. "

" Play message."

William listened, amazed at how things worked here.

" Marcus, you are not needed today. Please report tomorrow at 09.00 for duty."

Marcus knew this would happen.

" They seem to care a lot about you." William studied his brother now lights were back to normal settings. He had not before noticed how skinny Marcus had become and there was something unknown in his eyes. Again, he asked himself what it was that had changed his brother this much. He wanted to mention the nightmare but reconsidered. It would be better if Marcus told him without being forced in to it. He thought back to the crystal in his pocket. Better to get it over with. " Shall we watch the crystal Sinclair gave me?" His brother started to protest so he cut him off. " The instruction in the letter said to watch it together." William rose and pushed the crystal into the playing equipment. Then he returned to the table to sit down on Marcus' bed. He noticed Marcus' stricken face.

A well-known room appeared on screen. Both recognized it. It was the exercise room in the ranger Training facility on Minbar.

Marcus remembered the time he spent training to become a ranger quite well. It weren't fun memories. It had been a tough time. He desperately wanted to get out of his own quarters. A sense of foreboding washed over him. He remembered the night he had broken down in Sinclair’s arms. Could it be possible that Sinclair had recorded THAT night?

William felt Marcus get tense. Whatever had been taped, it scared the hell out of Marcus. The image got brighter and William could make out 2 human forms, pike fighting. He recognized his brother and Jeffrey Sinclair. The two men were alone. It seemed a rather serious fight. Sinclair was wounded slightly, his upper lip bleeding. Marcus was in a worse condition. He was bleeding from his mouth and his right brow was cut open. None of them spoke a word. The pikes delivered the mighty blows to the opponent’s body. Again and again, repeating the same steps over and over again. The look on Marcus' face while battling Sinclair was one of unthinking rage and frenzy. " Marcus?" William looked at his brother. Marcus' face was contorted.

Marcus trembled and tried to make himself as small as possible, hiding from William’s eyes. He pulled up his legs and covered his face with his hands. He could feel the emotions of that night return to him, as powerful as they had been years ago. " I.. didn't know he recorded this…"

" What is going on, Marcus. Tell me. I don't think you guys are only training."

Marcus tugged at the end of the blanket, a bundle of nerves, on the edge of falling into hysterics.

William noticed the state Marcus was in.

" I remember that night as if it was only yesterday..."

William paused the recording and waited patiently for Marcus to continue. The tone of his voice displayed the enormous hurt inside. Marcus reminded him a scared animal being led to its death.

" You know training to become a ranger is quite grueling. You have been through it yourself."

William nodded. He glared at the paused image. It showed a close-up of Marcus' face, blood running down his angry face. In his eyes an expression of pain, making him shiver.

" Well, I had trouble sleeping. I had nightmares all the time. In my mind I witnessed your death time and time again. It was driving me insane. In those days... I tried to take my own life a couple of times but every time I tried I was too afraid to pull it of. I also trained at night when the others were asleep... it took my mind of things I didn't want to confront. I ran away from the nightmares, only to find them haunting me in the daytime while I was awake as well. Late at night I entered the gym to exhaust myself so I would fall asleep without having to go through the nightmares. But I discovered quite quickly I wasn't alone. Jeffrey Sinclair was meditating. There was this peace and silence he radiated and I wanted to be a part of that too. But fear overwhelmed me. I couldn't deal with my guilt at that point. It kept me alive. I thought about lying down and simply die, but the courage eluded me. I wanted to leave immediately, not eager to disturb Ranger One. He must have heard me enter because he called my name and I had no other choice than to go to him. In my head the rage started to build up. He must have felt that. When he rose to his feet I could only stare at the floor. I had heard my teachers discussing my lack of patience and caring while dealing with the other students during the training. They weren't satisfied at all with my behavior. I tended to hurt myself quite a lot. Now I can confess I did it on purpose. The pain made me feel alive. It pushed away the hurt. "

William saw the tears appearing in Marcus' eyes. He decided to give Marcus the time he needed to tell his history. William now realized what it was that had been such a trauma to Marcus. It was his death. William couldn't even guess what Marcus had felt when he’d showed up on the bridge. He felt sorry for punching him in his face.

" We stood there for some time. Then Entil'Zha threw me the pike and we started the fight. I welcomed it. It gave me a way to channel the pain and anger I was feeling." Marcus looked up at his brother. " The Minbari said I carried around a lot of repressed anger, but at that moment I gave it full control. It controlled me. We fought. Somewhere along the line it wasn't practice anymore. I wanted to make him kill me. I attacked so fiercely that he would be forced to hurt me, even kill me. Oh, how I wanted to die. Death would take away the pain and I would have paid the price at last. Then the hurt and pain would stop. Stephen and Lennier accused me of a death wish even before I took on Neroon. They saw through my mask of wit."

" Neroon? The leader of the Star Riders’ clan?"

" Yes, he wanted to prevent Delenn from becoming Ranger One. We couldn't risk a civil war, should he kill one of his own kind. So I volunteered and challenged him to a fight to the death and he accepted. The bastard broke three of my ribs but he let me live. I still don't know why. He came to visit me in med lab but Stephen had shot me up with so many painkillers I don't remember much of his visit."

" You challenged him and lived? Challenging him to Denn-Sha must have been one of the most stupid things you have ever done and you did a lot of foolish things, I know."

Marcus pushed the button to start playing the recording again. William watched the battle between Marcus and Sinclair. It was a close call but Sinclair managed to disarm him and Marcus fell to the floor, exhausted and mind broken. Sinclair threw his pike aside and looked at Marcus with pity in his eyes.

William felt Marcus tremble. He made his decision and put an arm around his brother in an attempt to comfort him. Marcus stared at the screen, hypnotized.

Sinclair sat on his heels, raising Marcus' chin with his hands. " Why did you join the rangers, Marcus? And tell the truth..."

Marcus shied away from William as he heard his voice answering Entil'Zha. " I... am responsible for the death of my brother. He was a ranger. I promised to take his place."

Sinclair stared into Marcus' eyes. " Are you really responsible or do you only think you are?"

Marcus tried to look somewhere else but Sinclair held his face between his hands.

"I’m responsible. I didn't listen to his warning. I was so… stupid. I wish I had listened. William was the closest to me... I whished I could turn back time and save his life."

William reached out and stopped the recording. He had seen enough. It suddenly hit him that Marcus' wish had come true. Sinclair had sent him through time to be with Marcus again. William held Marcus in his arms. Marcus cried and the tears dripped onto William’s hands. " I never thought my death would have such a big impact on you, Marcus. "

Marcus managed to speak through his sobbing cries. His voice cracked, insecure. " That and... the knowledge I hurt you by entering your mind without your consent but when I held you in my arms, while you were dying, I couldn't leave you to face death alone. I wanted to stand at your side... I felt death... how it seized you... you screamed at me to get out of your mind and that was when I started to run. I ran… and somehow I wasn't wounded during that attack. I still don't understand why I didn't die that night... I deserved it… I have been running ever since..."

William knew the words Marcus spoke were true. He raised Marcus' chin the same way Sinclair had done and looked Marcus in the eyes. " Listen carefully, Marc. You weren't responsible for what happened that night. We would never had enough time to evacuate everyone and the Shadows would have attacked any way. I know I died back there. I don't know how Sinclair managed what he did, but believe me, had I died I would never have wanted you to think you killed me. " He pulled Marcus closer.

Marcus allowed it, feeling safe in his brother’s embrace. It had been such a long time. William knew all his secrets. He didn't have to pretend anything while he was being held.

" You have to let it out, Marcus. I know you tend to keep it all inside, but you have to let go." William remembered Marcus' nightmares and understood what they were about. How was it possible that Marcus blamed himself for something he had no control over? The Shadows would have attacked that night, even if there had been hundreds of telepaths trying to stop them. " The nightmares will go away if you let go. Let go of the guilt, Marc."

And Marcus cried, after all these years of feeling guilty, his feelings exploded when they reached the surface of his mind. William held his brother, rocking him. He had no idea how long Marcus had cried and trembled but after some time it subdued and Marcus calmed down. William peeked at his face. Marcus seemed to be almost asleep. A rare look of peace on his face. William was moved by the intensity of Marcus' feelings. He had never suspected that Marcus would punish himself this badly. He had created his own personal hell. William asked himself what would have happened if Sinclair had not sent him back in time. He hoped Marcus would be able to start healing now. " Are you feeling better?" William wiped Marcus' tears away with a little piece of the blanket.

Marcus' eyes were red from weeping and his voice shaky. " Yes, thank you." Finally Marcus dared to look at his brother. He felt as safe as he had been when he was a kid, seeking comfort by his parents or brother.

" Everything will be all right, Marc, believe me."

He felt Marcus nod more than he saw it and laid Marcus back on the bed. Glad this had come out in the open. " Try to get some sleep, Marcus. I know you tossed and turned most of the time last night." William covered Marcus' tired body with the blanket. Assured Marcus was asleep, he sat back and watched the end of the recording. It was a message, spoken by Sinclair.

# I hope I did the right thing in sending you forward in time. Marcus is very dear to me and his hurt was something I could take away.

I am afraid his hurt will lead him to take his life. So I gambled you would forgive him, William. There are problems coming his way and he needs you now more than ever before.#

The recording ended and William hid the crystal in his pocket. He wanted to keep this crystal as a reminder of his brother’s love for him. And he wanted to prevent that it would fall in wrong hands. Marcus slept peacefully and William watched him sleep. Marcus had broken down in his arms, seeing the recording. William hoped Marcus was able to let his hurt and guilt go. It would break his heart if Marcus would succeed in killing himself one day during some stupid mission. He wouldn't allow that. He would protect his brother.

William watched his brother sleep for a few minutes more. Marcus seemed at peace and nightmares disturbed his dreams no longer. He debated mentally whether to carry out the plan that had formed in his brain or not. He cut the Gordian knot and left Marcus' quarters very quietly, avoiding waking his brother in the process. Marcus could use some sleep. He tried to find his way back to Delenn's quarters but discovered he was lost in the midst of the bowels of the space station. He was relieved to see a familiar face coming round the corner. " Doctor Franklin, please wait a second!" William ran to his side. The doc was just the man he needed to give him directions.

" William, are you settled in already? I heard you are sharing quarters with Marcus?"

" Hey, it’s Will for friends. And yes, I moved in with Marc."

Stephen gave him an inquisitive look. He wondered if Marcus was still in one piece.

William seemed guess his thoughts. " We talked things over. I never thought he would be messed up like this after witnessing my death. You guys should have kicked his ass to get him rid off the stupid self pity he was in."

Stephen smiled and was relieved things had worked out between the two brothers. " Don't kick MY ass for saying this but you seem a bit lost. Anything I can help you with?"

" As a matter of fact you can. I am trying to get to Entil'Zha Delenn’s quarters but all these corridors look the same to me."

Stephen knew the feeling. " I am headed in the same direction, mind if I accompany you?"
" You are welcome! It’s always good to be friends with the local doc!" William laughed and Stephen joined in. He had the irritating feeling that things wouldn't be dull anymore on Babylon 5 now there were two Coles to make his life miserable. He hoped this Cole didn't have that annoying habit to play with his pike as Marcus did. Marcus could drive him insane doing that ' pike thing' of his. " I’m glad you two get along now. It was quite a shock to Marcus when he discovered you in med lab. He had just defeated an attacking Shadow vessel and was worn out. I was afraid he was going to have a break-down the moment you showed up."

" He did have a nervous collapse some moments ago when we got things in the open but he should be all right when he wakes up again. He is a lot tougher than he looks like. "

" I realized that when I read his medical file after he was beat up by Neroon. I don't know what it is about Marcus, but there were a couple of times the guy should have died because of his injuries. I have never before seen such a quick healer."

" Mum and dad wondered about that too. He wasn't even sick as a kid. I thought there was some injustice to it."

They arrived at Delenn’s quarters and Stephen gestured towards the door. William thanked Stephen for his guidance and rang the door chime. Lennier who opened the door, curious at the reason for William’s visit, answered him. William felt the need to explain himself to the Minbari. " I would like to talk to Entil'Zha. I want to ask her something concerning Marcus." He was aware of the chilly look Lennier gave him. William knew he had made a wrong first impression on the Minbari, and accepted the reprimanding glare.

Lennier showed him inside and told him to wait. William felt his nerves acting up. The request he was about to make to Delenn, was a little insolent. But his mind was set on asking it.

Delenn entered the room some moments later. She was surprised by William’s visit. She hoped he hadn’t come to ask her help to leave the station. She didn't want to hurt Marcus by having to tell him his brother had left him. " William."

" Entil'Zha, thank you for taking the time to talk to me."

Delenn beckoned him to sit down. They sat down opposite each other. Delenn tried to read the odd expression on his face but failed.

" I have come here to ask you a very imprudent question. I know you asked Damian to be Marcus'... bodyguard but I would really appreciate it if I could take that place. It would give me the opportunity to get to know him better. I think I misjudged him the first time we met after such a long time. I’m really sorry I punched him on the White Star."

Delenn wondered about William Cole. She had heard of the incident from Damian who had asked her some hours earlier to relieve him from his duty. He felt he’d failed Marcus and some one else would do a better job protecting Marcus. He had allowed Marcus to be hit the first day on duty. Delenn had been fretting about a replacement for Damian. She wasn't sure what William’s motives were to guard his brother’s life.

William sensed the uncomfortable silence and had his suspicions why Delenn was this careful. " Beside the fact that he’s my brother, he’s also your named successor. I would be honored to protect our Zha'lafi. "

Delenn decided to give him a chance. If Sinclair trusted William enough to send him forward in time to confront his brother, she should trust him too. " You should know that Damian asked to be replaced, his feeling of shame too big because of the incident he failed to prevent."

William was thankful she was this considerate of his feelings and didn't mention him hitting Marcus. " You will act as his aide or body guard if you prefer that term. Make sure the two of you report in tomorrow morning at 0900 to my quarters. "

Delenn stood, a sign the conversation was ended.

" Thank you, Entil'Zha. I am indebted to you." William bowed deeply. He watched her leave, in awe of this amazing woman. Lennier appeared again to show him out. William felt he couldn't leave before talking to the Minbari. " I should apologize for my behavior on the White Star. I was out of line... guess it was the confusion from traveling through time."

Lennier listened. He considered Marcus more than just a friend. At his request the ranger had fought Neroon. Perhaps that was the reason why he was this protective of Marcus. The ranger had been hurt enough for a lifetime. " Do not let hem down again. He needs someone close to him."

William felt the acceptance of his apology and took Lennier’s arm and led him to the door. " You mentioned being close to him. Tell me something more about this Susan Ivanova. I heard they are... really close?"

Lennier sighed, William Cole had the same annoying way of gathering information as his brother.

William had come to the conclusion that his brother must love a challenge. It appeared to him that this Commander Susan Ivanova was difficult to handle. It fed his curiosity and he couldn't resist going to her quarters, just in case she was in. He rang the door chime.

" Who is there?"

He liked the voice, melodic but firm. He was curious to see what her reaction would be to his visit. " William Cole, at your service."

The door opened immediately. He stepped in to the room, then waited. He wanted to give her some time to adjust to the situation. She approached from the little kitchen unit. William envied his brother, it was evident she was all burning lava. He was surprised his brother would choose her as his lover, but then again, he wondered if he really knew the man his brother had become.

" You are William?"

He managed to conceal his laugh from her gaze. The emotions flashing over her face were priceless. " Yes, I thought it would be a nice thing to introduce myself to you. Impatient nature, I guess."

Susan eyed him. The British accent reminded her of Marcus. But their appearances were quite different. Marcus was dark haired, his brother fair. He was a bit taller than Marcus and his weight was also a lot more. " Well... I’m Susan Ivanova." It didn't happen that much that Susan was lost for words. Of all the things she expected to happen this was the most unbelievable.

" I hope we will become friends. I really would love to have a little family on Babylon 5. Seems I am here to stay."

Susan tasted the truth in his words. It would be good for the three of them to get along, they needed some ties. Suddenly she felt she was neglecting her duties as host. " Would you like to drink something while we talk?" She expected a request for tea but he surprised her.

" Everything with alcohol in it would be great."

William chuckled on his way back to Marcus' quarters. Susan Ivanova had tried her best to intimidate him. He had laughed and drunk another screwdriver. Susan had been visibly taken aback when he held his own, drinking the vodka. He entered the door code and saw that Marcus was still asleep. He was going to change that. " Hey, sleepy, wake up. It is time to show me around the station. I am dying to get a decent breakfast, or lunch by the looks of it."

Marcus woke, a bit startled someone was in his quarters. Then he remembered his brother’s return. Abruptly he realized that his usual dark and moody thoughts weren't there. The presence of his brother made the darkness depart. Marcus stretched. He was still tired, but it was a comfortable fatigue.

" Then I should take you to the Zocalo. I hope that Damian isn't hiding somewhere to follow every step we take." Marcus got up from the bed and splashed some water in his face.

" Next time, Marcus, wear a pair of sweats when you go to sleep. Your uniform looks like shit. As Zha'lafi you have to set the example for other rangers."

Marcus grinned, William had always been brutally honest. He straightened out his uniform and together they left his quarters.
" About Damian... he’s history. I’m your new bodyguard. Before you shout at me, I asked for the job."

Marcus reflected on this news. He couldn't stop his brother and frankly he didn't want to. William had always been stubborn. I would be good to have him at his side.

" Your Susan is all fire. I hope you don't get burned." William made the remark to see Marcus' response. It was fun watching Marcus start to blush.

Marcus stopped and looked at William. " What did you do? And don't give me that innocent face. I use that one all the time, I know you’re hiding something."

" Nothing really. I was only wondering when you would make me an uncle. I like babies."

Marcus almost regretted having him in his life again. He had the strangest feeling that William and Michael Garibaldi would be great friends.

< We need to do something. It won't be long before we are the laughing stock of the known universe.>

< What do you suggest?>

< Psi Corps needs to settle the score. We cannot allow any rogue telepaths running around on Babylon 5. We have to strike fear into the heart of every rogue who thinks they can fool us. Bester himself gave permission to carry out this death sentence. We will go to the space station and carry out the termination. >

< The both of us?>

< Yes, we have to make sure Lyta Alexander is kept in the dark. Bester warned me she could meddle in our affairs. Though she is loyal to the Corps she befriended too many people on Babylon 5.>

< When will we leave?>

< In an hour.>

Marcus and William Cole found a lovely little restaurant in Down Below. Marcus had a hard time remembering the last time he’d eaten with this kind of appetite. Everything seemed perfect in this little world. Susan had accepted his love, William had come into the future to be at his side and Babylon 5 appeared calm for once, no brawlers, no alarming calls from Delenn or C&C. The world seemed to be at peace with itself. Marcus wondered how long this was going to last. But he decided not to let it bother him. His motto had always been ' momento mori '; remember to die. But now he thought about changing that to ' carpe diem'; seize the day. Nobody knew how long they were going to live in this war with Clark on one side and the Shadows on the other side.

" Hey, Marc! You’re brooding. What is going on in that complex mind of yours?" William finished his lunch. The food wasn't that bad here on Babylon 5 but he had tasted better. He was still trying to fit all the part of the puzzle together, concerning Marcus. He seemed a lot more mentally stable than when they had first met. He was happy about that. He had hated the shadow of himself Marcus had been the first time they’d met. Marcus had always been the stronger one. Marcus may never have seen it like that but in some ways William envied him for his courage and strength.

" I thought about everything that has happened recently. This is the first time since your 'death' that I’m kind of happy."

" Sorry to spoil that great mood you are in, but when are you telling your Susan that you are a telepath?"

Marcus’ mood darkened. Damn Will for bringing that up. He was sure Susan was going to make him suffer for not telling her earlier. Marcus admitted to himself that he was scared of losing her love over this crazy issue. " Did you have to bring that up? The truth is I don't know. Susan hates telepaths. Her experiences with Psi Corps were quite traumatic."

" You’ve got a history with them yourself. I still haven't figured out how you tricked that Psi Corp representative when he came to check us out."

" I can tell you... from what Stephen tells me I am p 11 or p12. That is a very high rating. I simply overrated the guy." Marcus shoved his plate away from him, nipping some of the tea in front of him. William, officially off duty, drank a beer.

" Why don't you go to her this evening and tell her? It is better to get it over with."

Marcus laughed at his brother’s advice. " You don't know her that well. She’s... dangerous. She can beat the hell out of you. I rather face Neroon again."

William chuckled and decided Marcus was going to Susan’s quarters this evening, even if that meant taking him there by force. " Hey, Marcus, are you up to a little pike fighting? I really want to know who's better."

Marcus' laugh continued. //Oh Valen, I haven't laughed this much in years.// " Why not, if you think you can hold you own. You must know I was trained by the great Durhann himself, his first human student." Marcus knew he was bragging and for once he loved the feeling.

William was impressed, that was something he hadn't known yet. Marcus must have made quite an impression on the Minbari teacher. While he had been training, Durhann had only taken Minbari in as students. " Then I will have to be on my guard!"

William and Marcus headed down to the ranger training rooms, arm in arm, smiling. They were the only two rangers present in the exercise room. Marcus extended his pike and William started to circle him, searching for a weak spot in Marcus' defense. William quickly had to acknowledge that Marcus knew how to wield a pike. Without any warning Marcus attacked. William deflected the blow and succeeded in hitting Marcus on the back. " 1-0 on my account. Are you perhaps a bit rusty?"

Marcus smiled. He had never before fought his brother with a Minbari fighting pike and had given him some space to show off. Marcus fell to a knee and used the pike as leverage to kick William’s feet from underneath him. A curse left William’s lips as he dropped to the floor.

Both of them were too concentrated on the fight to notice three people entering the room; Delenn, Lennier and Damian. The three dropped the topic they were discussing and watched the fight instead.

William got to his feet quickly but Marcus moved even faster. He did a somersault and using his pike once more, not only knocked William of his feet but also followed up with a blow to his butt.

" Damned!" William realized he had underestimated his brother. Marcus was smaller and in this fight that was an advantage to him. Marcus moved a lot faster. William tried to get back to his feet. He had fallen face down and wasn't sure what Marcus was up to. The next moment he felt one end of the metal pike pushing in his neck.

" I guess this more than equals the score, don't you agree, Will?" Marcus had really enjoyed this little match but the next time William would try harder. He had surprised his brother.

" Bugger, now I know why Durhann took you as a student."

Marcus helped William to his feet. They turned about when they heard some applause. " Entil'Zha, Lennier, Damian. I didn't hear you coming inside." Marcus bowed to Delenn who was grinning.

" And you want to be his bodyguard?" She aimed the remark at William who looked a bit compromised.

" I know, it's disgracing, but hell, I never fought him before. I didn't know he was that good!" It was a mock apology and he returned Delenn’s grin.

" Just make sure he doesn't challenge Neroon anymore. That time Marcus met his master." Lennier joined in. There was a feeling of amusement in the air.

Marcus cringed slightly at the mention of that name. He wished he had not taken on the Minbari warrior. Not because of his injuries or a one month stay in med lab but because it seemed he was reminded of that little stunt regularly.

< This is way to easy. Our contact informed me that Lyta Alexander isn't on the station. That gives us the advantage.>

< I agree. It will make our mission much easier to accomplish. They don't even scan for teeps.>

< Well, us not wearing Psi Cop uniforms might have something to do with it. But it is much more difficult not to touch people without those gloves. I am glad the Corps taught me how to keep all these voices outside my head.>

< Is there any clue to the rating of this rogue telepath?>

< Yes, they guess about p 2. The rating isn't that high, but it is a matter of principle to Bester.>

< Let's go to her quarters. It is best to have the element of surprise on our side. I am still not sure why Bester requested the two of us. We are both p 10. One of us would be enough to terminate her.>

< Bester has his reasons. I think it has to do with his previous experiences with Babylon 5. He is overly careful.>

< Let's move, we are wasting time. I want to get back home as soon as possible. I don't like the people here, there is too much freedom.>

Susan was feeling tired. She had stood the midwatch and desperately needed some sleep. Before she lay down on the couch she checked the messages. Marcus had left her a one. His face looked clouded when the com system played the message.

" Susan, I need to talk to you. Could I come by at your quarters at 21.00 hours? I know that is late, but it is very important to me."

Susan looked at the time; 20.00 hours. She stretched and hoped she wouldn't fall asleep while he was in here. So she decided to take a little nap now. She made herself comfortable on the couch, looking forward to his visit. She missed him. The nights alone left her with feverish dreams of the one night they made love for the first time. Dreaming of his strong and protective arms wrapped around her she drifted off the sleep. She didn't hear footsteps entering her room. Two pairs of eyes watched her with intense loathing.

< It’s time, in her sleep she is most vulnerable. What are your plans for this one? How do you want her to die?>

< Her mother committed suicide. Wouldn't it be fitting if she also took her own life?>

< You want to invade her mind while she is asleep and...>

< Let her shoot herself through her head with her gun. That would be pure poetry, my friend.>

Susan was screaming her lungs out. Something had invaded her mind while she had been asleep. She tried to focus on the two intruders, a man and a woman, but her mind seemed to belong to her no longer. She clawed at the couch, found her PPG gun she always hid in her quarters in case she was attacked. But now it seemed this precaution would be her downfall. She constantly heard the same words repeated in her mind over and over again, unable to stop them.

//Take your life, shoot yourself through the head. Take your life, shoot yourself through the head. Take your life, shoot yourself through the head. Take your life, shoot yourself through the head. Take your life, shoot yourself through the head. Take your life, shoot yourself through the head. Take your life, shoot yourself through the head. Take your life, shoot yourself through the head.//

" Shut up, get out of my mind!" She heard her own panic-filled scream. She was perplexed to see her hand, moving by a will of its own, bringing the gun to her temple. She felt the coldness of the trigger. Her finger twitched to pull that trigger. She was scared to death.

Marcus convinced William that he would be in no danger by going to Susan’s quarters on his own. The last thing he needed was his brother eavesdropping on his conversation with Susan. He knew this talk wouldn't be easy on both of them. It would solify or destroy their love. Marcus hoped Susan would forgive him. After all, she was hiding the fact that she was a latent. They were both lying. He fumbled the real red roses in his hands. The elevator stopped and he stepped into the corridor where Susan’s quarters were situated. He stopped in his tracks. All of his inner alarms were going off. Something was wrong. The more he approached Susan’s quarters, the more alarmed he got.

//Telepaths?// Marcus had felt the same sensation when the Psi Corp agent had tried to test him. when he was younger. Suddenly he remembered her request to seek out a Psi Corps spy before Delenn had him going through the Chulendra ceremony. He had completely forgotten about her worries of this spy being on Babylon 5.He carefully placed the roses onto the floor and extended his pike for any would be attackers. Susan’s door was closed. He was relieved she had told him the access code before he left yesterday. The woman was a romantic in disguise, her code being unicorn. He punched in the code but was not prepared for the side that greeted him.

Susan was about to pull the trigger of her gun, which was placed, against her temple. He heard the words the teep assassins were whispering into her mind. There was no doubt in his mind that the man and woman inside Susan’s quarters were Psi Cops. They weren't wearing the uniforms but their mind signatures gave them away immediately. Marcus was no trained telepath and he had no idea how strong the Cops were but he would die trying to protect her. He reached out with his mind to find Susan’s. He pushed away the Psi Cops’ presence in Susan’s mind. The female Cop looked at him in hate when she realized she was dealing with another rogue telepath. Susan looked at him and the gun fell to the floor. The hold they’d had on her had been broken.

Susan realized in horror that Marcus had been hiding a secret similar to hers. She felt his strength, overpowering the Psi Cop, freeing her soul. He shielded her mind with his own, to keep her safe from the assassins. She didn't only feel paralyzed, she was paralyzed.

" Who are you?" The male Psi Cop turned to face their new opponent.

Marcus shivered when he felt the man’s attempt to enter his mind and he blocked the Cop. Marcus had no intention of answering the man.

< What must we do now? This was not planned. We weren't told there was another rogue telepath, this strong, onboard.>

Marcus overheard the remark the female made to the man. He tried to establish contact with Susan but she was looking at him in total shock. She was blocking him and he made no more attempts to establish a link. He didn't want to hurt her.

< I know this one. It’s Marcus Cole. A Ranger, but we had no idea he was a teep.>

< I know our objective is to kill the Russian bitch, but this is a perfect opportunity. Remember, Bester told us the Corps needs new males to breed with? He would be perfect.>

Marcus didn't like this conversation. He had to get Susan into safety. The Cops seemed pre-occupied with their little conversation so he used the element of surprise. He knew he couldn't defeat them both. Two telepaths were too much to handle for him, they were trained and experienced in the use of their powers. He swung the pike and managed to hit the male Cop.

Susan’s mind was totally released the moment Marcus' pike hit the assassin. She was still in shock. There were two Psi Cops in her room and then Marcus turned out to be a telepath too. She wanted to go mad and shout at him in anger, but realized that would not be such a great idea. Marcus launched himself in her direction, picked her up from the couch and pushed her towards the door.

" Susan, get out!" After whispering those words to her he turned to face the Cops again.

Susan was struck down by the fear she felt in his mind, fear that anything might happen to her. His only concern was for her well being. She shook her head and started to run to a com link device to alert security. She hated to leave Marcus alone but she wasn't the help he needed. He needed security guards in there who weren't terrified of Psi Cops. She made a mental note to beat the hell out of him when the Cops were captured. How could he hide something so grave as this to her? //Well, miss know it all, you haven't been that honest with him too!//

Susan hated it when her conscience rebuked her. It seemed like the longest time before she reached a com link that wasn't smashed. Just as she was to use it Michael Garibaldi and John Sheridan came around the corner. She ran to them.

John and Michael were talking things over that happened that day while being on their way to Delenn's quarters. Suddenly a distressed Susan Ivanova appeared from nowhere. She was deadly pale and her eyes were big with fright. John was surprised, he didn't know Susan like this. " Susan, what is wrong, you look like… "
" No time to chat, John. There are two Psi Cops in my quarters. They wanted to kill me. You got to go and help Marcus, he helped me escape but..."

John tapped his link and ordered security teams to Susan’s quarters. " Lets see if we can help him."

John and Michael drew their guns and keeping protectively in front of Susan marched to her quarters. Michael peeked around the corner, the complete silence being a bad omen to him. Susan hid behind John’s back, after all, he had the gun.

" They are gone!" Michael gestured his friends to enter the room.

Susan looked in despair at the empty room. There was no trace of Marcus or the Psi Cops. She walked to the couch and picked up the gun that had been meant to be the instrument of her death. All of a sudden a tear left her eye. She kneeled down and took the ranger pin in her hand, which must have fallen to the floor while Marcus had been fighting the Cops. Then the memory of feeling Marcus' mind signature returned to haunt her.

//I’m going to kill him!// She held on to her anger, afraid to give in to the hurt. The anger would keep her alive, keep her going.

Michael left her room to talk to the security teams that had arrived. He dispatched them into groups to search for the kidnapped ranger.

That gave John a chance to talk to Susan in private. " What happened?"
" I don't know how they got in here, a man and a woman, Psi Cops. They were in my mind when I woke up. I was about to blow my head up when Marcus appeared from nowhere. " Susan looked John in the eyes, wondering about something. "Do you know he is a telepath?"

John was nervous to answer that question. He knew how unpredictable Susan could be. But he decided to be honest. " I found out 2 days ago, when he returned with Stephen. Apparently the White Star was attacked by Shadows and Marcus used his powers to drive them away. Susan, even Delenn didn't know he was a telepath. He practically begged us not to tell you. He wanted to do that himself. He was frightened to tell you. He isn't thrilled about his powers."

Susan took in all the information. Slowly her mind was recovering from the brutal assault. There was one more question burning her lips. " Does he know I am a latent?"

John hated being put in this situation. But now that the Cops had taken Marcus prisoner he felt he had no other option than the truth. " Yes, he said he knew it the first time he saw you and didn't want to scare you by telling you."

Susan swallowed hard. And yet he loved her? //And I love him!//She took a deep breath and forced herself to stay alert and reasonable. " We have got to find him!"

" Yes, do you have any idea what their plans are?"

Susan nodded. She too had heard the telepathic conversation. " They want to take him to Earth. It seems the Corps wants him as breeding material."

" Breeding material? Our Marcus?"

The look on John’s face made her laugh, no matter how bad the situation was. " Then they will be heading for the docking area. "

John took Susan’s arm and grabbed Michael in the process. " Michael, I think they are heading for the docking area."

They started to run towards the elevator to take them down. When the elevator doors opened they stared in the furious face of William Cole.

William Cole had been tapping into the security network for fun. He had been bored and wanted to see if he could still hack the computer system in this time. The message he had heard over the system had made him go into a frenzy. Psi Cops had kidnapped Marcus! William had smashed his fist to the wall, trying to deal with the immense anger building in him. He had replaced Damian as Marcus' bodyguard and on his first day on duty Marcus got kidnapped. Now he knew how Damian must have felt when he wasn't able to prevent Marcus from being assaulted by his own brother. William got out his pike and started to knock down imaginary opponents. He left Marcus' quarters and headed to Susan’s. He was glad he had had the time to get a map of the station. He had studied it till he knew where to find everything. He marched to the elevator and got aboard. He had promised to protect his brother and he had failed him. It seemed like hours before the elevator doors opened to reveal the shocked faces of John Sheridan and Susan Ivanova. " I take it we are going to hunt the bastards down who took him?"

Susan nodded and pulled John and Michael into the elevator, which would take them directly down to the docking area. Michael used his override abilities.

William watched Susan’s face. This woman was howling mad. The only thing he wasn't sure about was whom she was going to kill; the Cops or Marcus.

Susan felt his gaze and faced him. " Why did he not tell me he was a telepath?"

William moistened his lips. He was lost for words. " He was afraid. Marcus had a tough life and those telepathic abilities only made it worse. I suspect he hates having them. Don't be too hard on him. I will make you a deal."

Susan’s impatience showed. She was stamping her foot, creating a hollow ' thud ' sound.

" When we find him, you don't scream at him but at me. Then, when you have spit your venom go and talk to him." William disliked his own proposal but it made sense to him.

Susan considered the idea and decided she could give it a try. Will offered himself as her punching ball. " All right, but he will be in big trouble none the less!"

The elevator came to a halt.

" I have ordered to sweep the docking area without causing any suspicion and Zack told me they reported something queer in docking bay 7 T. Lets check that out first" Michael tapped his hand communicator to terminate the link to Zack Allen.

Susan got off the elevator first. William felt pity with the kidnappers. The intensity in Susan’s eyes was enough to make him feel relieved he was on her side.

Marcus stood rigid in Susan’s quarters. He was desperately trying to block the two Psi Cops who were determined to enter his mind. He realized that he couldn't possibly handle them both. One, he could block but the combined telepathic attack crushed him entirely. He saw Susan sneaking out of the room, out of reach of the two assassins Psi Corps sent. He had heard the remark about taking him to earth. The Cops didn't appear to be bothered with the fact that he wasn't an Earth-citizen.

< Inject the drugs. It will subdue his mind.>

Marcus knew that whatever was going to happen would be bad. He clung to the fact that Susan wasn't in danger anymore. He attempted to break free from their hold. He knew they wouldn't be able to keep up this kind of control over his mind for a longer period. The female approached and took out a kind of syringe, filled with a dark, green liquid. Marcus didn't know what it was but he guessed it would be some kind of sleepers, regularly used to make rogues submit to the Corps. The woman pressed the syringe to the back of his neck. The needle forced its way through the skin. He felt a sting and the woman injected the substance.

Marcus felt his knees go weak for a split second. A freezing cold spread through his body in a few seconds. It hurt when the drug took effect on his brain. It was like a knife twisting inside his mind, cutting the connections between his body, mind and brain. He felt like his mind, the part where his personality and feelings were anchored was driving back into a tiny section of his soul. Marcus attempted to scream but his mouth didn't open, no sound emerged from his lips. Then he remembered he had seen this happen before. It was during one of his missions. He had been sent to free a Psi Corps prisoner, a young man. The man had stood in the line of fire. Marcus had yelled at him to get to the ground, to prevent the chap from getting shot. But the man hadn't moved, he had just stood there, his eyes unmoving, not focused. The Cop shot him in the end. Marcus had heard the order the male Cop gave him. It had been a telepathic command. Marcus understood now why the prisoner had not moved when he had called out. The drug had been designed that the prisoner would only respond to telepathic orders. Marcus realized he was trapped in his own body, no longer master of his will, it terrified him.

< Follow her.>

Marcus started to walk. He didn't want to but he was no longer in command of his movements. The female Cop left Susan’s quarters. Marcus sensed the other Cop walking close behind him. There was no way out of this. They continued to march trough the corridors. Some people looked up and greeted him friendly.

< Nod to them, we don't want to draw any suspicion. You won't say a single word.>

Marcus' head moved with a will of his own. He yelled, mentally, in the corner where his mind was confined. Was there really no way out? Was everything he had been through recently been in vain? Would he lose Susan, so shortly after gaining her love? Would the rest of his life be like this? An imprisoned mind inside his body?

Marcus noticed they had reached the docking area. Should the Cops succeed in getting him off Babylon 5 his fate was sealed. He grasped the remains of sanity hiding in his mind, he was sure he was going crazy.

< Get into the shuttle.>

Marcus cringed at the telepathic voice in his head. It hurt. His feet moved on. He was now close enough to see the shuttle doors opened. Entering the shuttle would mean the end of the life as he knew it. He thought of Susan and regretted not having shared his secret with her earlier. The way she’d found out had never been his intention. Now, she would surely hate him.

" Move in on my signal only."

Susan had a hard time accepting orders from Sheridan. She wanted to blast the brains out of the Cops' heads, but she accepted he was in charge. She looked at the team that had spread out over the shuttle area. Michael, Sheridan, William and Zack Allen were ready to attack. There were several rangers keeping low profile, hiding, ready to help at the moment they were summoned. Michael had managed to find out on which shuttle the Cops had arrived. It had been a dangerous gamble to ambush the area.

Susan sensed William’s eyes on her. She looked at him. He tried to look reassuringly. They were too far apart to talk without being noticed. The moment the Cops set foot inside the docking area her eyes searched for Marcus. She raised walls around her mind, to fool the Cops.

Marcus was walking in the center. A Cop in front of him, the other behind him. Susan shuddered when she caught sight of his eyes. They were unmoving, hypnotized. She vaguely remembered those kind of eyes. Her mother had been like that. He’d been drugged.

She monitored every move Sheridan made, eager to attack the Cops and reclaim the man she loved more than life itself. She saw the shuttle doors open and wondered what Sheridan was waiting for.

William asked himself the same question. Marcus' eyes were eerie looking and he moved like a zombie, clumsy and stiff, his movements badly co-ordinated. The uniform Marcus was wearing reminded William that the Cops were kidnapping their Zha'lafi. They had to be stopped. He jumped out of hiding the moment Sheridan gave the sign to move in.

Susan, Sheridan, Michael aimed their guns at the shuttle, making sure the Cops wouldn't escape with Marcus. William had other plans. While the Cops began to return fire he ran towards Marcus who stood frozen in the line of fire. " Marcus, get down, damned!" William screamed as loud as humanly possible. He was shocked as Marcus didn't react and remained standing. The flashes of fired PPG-guns were getting too close to his body. William ran even harder to reach his brother. The male Cop aimed at Marcus and fired his gun. He leaped and grasped Marcus tightly, both of them falling to the hard floor.

Marcus' heart stopped beating for a second when he saw the PPG being fired at him. The Cop was really close and couldn't actually miss him. He prepared for the impact of pain when from the corners of his eyes Will appeared, jumping, throwing him down to the floor. Marcus tried to cry out but he still was paralyzed. He had to witness how Will got hit and remained laying on top of him, covering his body, protecting his brother. Marcus could only think of his brother. //Please, don't let him be mortally wounded, don't let him die. Not again...//

Will felt the pain in his left arm where he was hit. He checked the wound by looking at it quickly. It was only a scratch. Marcus was still not moving. Will shielded his brother from any other hits with his body. //We live and die for the one.// The thought entered his mind. How true it sounded now.

Marcus was in shock as blood flowed from Will’s body. He couldn't move his head to see where it was coming from, or how badly wounded his brother was. He released the little consciousness of mind he had left and started to fall in a deep abyss and passed out.

Will peeked at the Cops. The female was down. She was lying dead on the floor. The man was bleeding from the waist and threw away his gun, raised his arms in surrender. Susan was the first to reach the Cop. Will was almost amused when she punched the Cop out cold.

" Michael, put him in jail, question him when he comes around."

Sheridan and Susan walked quickly over to where Will and Marcus were. Will got back to his feet, clenching his teeth against the sharp pain in his arm.

Susan rushed to Marcus' side and knelt beside him. " Marcus, can you hear me?"

" I don't think so. He lost consciousness a few seconds ago." Will applied pressure to the wound, to keep it from bleeding.

" We better get you both to med lab." Sheridan made sure the Cop was taken care of and then turned his attention to his friends.

Stephen Franklin was mad as hell. He had been resting for 15 minutes when two patients were brought in, both named Cole. He handed Will to his colleague Doctor Hobbes and decided to treat Marcus himself. Susan was running about med lab One and driving Stephen nuts. He needed to concentrate on Marcus and looked at Sheridan. " Do me a favor, get her out of here. She is doing more harm than good."

" No, I am not leaving!" Susan clawed at the wall when Sheridan grabbed her and pushed her outside.

" Stay here and keep quiet." Sheridan forced her to sit down and sat beside her. He didn't want to risk her creeping back into med lab One again. He was relieved when Delenn arrived. Perhaps Delenn could calm her down. Susan was raving, cursing him for letting her wait on the corridor. Delenn had been warned by her rangers and had hurried down to med lab, Lennier following her. Sheridan rose, but kept an eye on Susan.

" I heard what happened, are they badly injured?"
" Will was shot in his arm but it is a non-life-threatening wound. He should be just fine. Doctor Hobbes is tending to him."

" And Marcus?” Delenn looked again to Sheridan for an answer. Susan was still talking to herself in angry tones.

" I really don't know. Susan thinks the Cops hit him with some drugs. Stephen is examining him."

Delenn nodded, forced herself to remain calm. She knew Susan needed some one to comfort her even if she wouldn't admit it. Delenn put an arm around Susan’s shoulder who stopped talking and started to cry. Delenn took Susan to some chairs and held her.

" At last!" Stephen's eyes lighted up when he identified the drug inside Marcus' body. The ranger was still out and frankly, Stephen was glad about that. Marcus' whining always distracted him from work. He asked an assistant to bring him an antidote to counter the effects of the Psi Corps drug. He injected it gently and pulled up a chair to see if it would work. Marcus looked like he was in deep sleep. Doctor Hobbes and Will entered the room. His left arm was bandaged and in a sling. " I guess you are going to live?" Stephen smiled as Will looked at him in a rather stupid way.

" Yes. How is he?"

Stephen heard the concern in his voice. " We will have to wait and see. You better stay outside, Will. " Stephen looked at doctor Hobbes, his eyes asking her to take him to the party waiting outside.

Will nodded, stroked Marcus' hair and followed doctor Hobbes outside where he was greeted by Sheridan.

Stephen hooked Marcus up to a monitor so he could see any changes in his vitals. Then he settled down again in the chair. He didn't have to wait very long. Marcus' eyelids moved and he slowly opened his eyes.

Marcus felt that he was lying down and memories returned quickly. Where was Will? He tried to sit up, fully expecting being paralyzed. He moaned when he fell back to the bed, but he was able to move! His head was aching like hell and his eyes started to focus. He identified Stephen sitting next to him. That could only mean he was in med lab and that the Cops had been prevented from leaving with him. " Where is... Will? I... remember he was shot... Is he alive? Please... let him be alive!"

Stephen acted quickly and looked Marcus straight in the eyes. " It was only a scratch. William is waiting outside, together with Susan." Stephen had hoped Susan’s name would calm him down but that had been a miscalculation.

" Don't let her in, Stephen... don't..."

" It is all right, Marcus. I will tell her to wait to visit you, calm down." Stephen took hold of his shoulders, forcing Marcus to be still. " You need rest. I will go and update our friends and when I come back you can tell me whether you want to see them or not, does that work for you?"

Marcus nodded. His eyes closed and Stephen pulled up the blanket. He was not looking forward to telling Susan she had to wait. He was about to leave med lab One when Marcus called him back. His eyes open again.

" Will is ..."

" William is all right. He only needs to rest the arm for some weeks and then the two of you can start another fight," Stephen assured him again his brother was okay.

Marcus sighed and slipped into sleep.

Susan had composed herself again and had actually briefly hugged William when he showed up, accompanied by doctor Hobbes. The only thing left to do now was to wait for Stephen. The doors opened and Stephen appeared. Susan ran towards him. " How is he? Can I see him?" Susan wanted to run in there, but Stephen stopped her. Susan looked up at him, taken aback.

" I gave him an antidote. He is still a bit weak. He woke up seconds ago and he is sleeping again. Susan, it would be best for him if you allowed him a few hours of sleep." Stephen watched her face. It went from furious to beaten.

William stepped up to her and patted her on the shoulder, not sure what she would tolerate from him.

" But he will be fine?"

" Yes, Susan, but he needs some rest and so do you."

Susan knew he was right, Stephen was always right. " Can I sleep here? Med lab doesn't seem crowded."

" Me too?"

Stephen considered Susan and William’s request.

" Hey, you can't keep me out. I am his body guard!"

Stephen looked questioningly at Delenn. Delenn nodded her approval. " All right. There is a room where I crash while on duty. There are some extra beds in there." Stephen wisely gave in. That way he could keep an eye on Susan.

William felt how tired he was lying down. Susan had been quiet and William knew she was getting used to the idea that Marcus was a telepath.

" What is Marcus' rating?"

The question came from nowhere, Will certainly had not been expecting it. " Stephen said P11 or P12."

Susan was stunned. " That high?"

William shrugged. " Lets get some sleep and if I catch you sneaking out of here I am going to spank you." William intended it to be a joke and Susan picked up on it.
" I promise to sleep. I know by now that Coles keep their words." Susan chuckled, sleep capturing her fast..

Marcus woke slowly. He knew right away he was in med lab. The headache had diminished and his mind was cleared from dark thoughts. He turned to lie on his right side, looking at the door. He was trying to reach a decision. He was in trouble now Susan knew that he was telepath. There were two things he could do. One, he could stay here, awaiting her wrath and his punishment or he could make a run for it. But he had been running for too long. Perhaps there was a third way out; making Susan accept the situation without losing his head.

Marcus managed to sit up, his legs dangled down the exam bed. He had been relieved to hear Will was okay. This idea of being his personal bodyguard could backfire again any time. He had to talk about this to Will. He wouldn't allow Will to die for him. Marcus put his feet to the floor, seeing if they could support his weight. Not that he was that heavy, he worried about his recent weight lose. He was far too skinny.

Marcus walked over to the door, checking the corridor. The last person he wanted to catch him during his escape attempt was Stephen. The coast was clear and he tiptoed out of med lab. His headache returned due to his efforts to get away. But it was bearable. He knew where he was headed and left med lab behind him.

Susan and William were woken by Stephen who appeared to be yelling at his staff. " How could you let him sneak out? You know him. It isn't the first time he pulled something like this!"

Susan had this terrible feeling she knew who had walked out of med lab. It had to be Marcus.

Stephen noticed his friends stepping outside into the corridor and went to them.

" Stephen, what is going on and the truth please!" Susan felt tired. Every time she thought her problems were over, Marcus created new ones.

" It seems our ranger didn't want to stick around any longer and sneaked out. I alerted security and Delenn. It can't be long before they find him again and then I am going to tie him down to that bed. I threatened to do that, but now I am determined to pull it off."

Susan turned to Will who seemed deeply in thought. He beckoned Susan and Stephen to follow him back into the room. Reluctantly they followed him.

" Will, we should be out there, searching for him." Susan hated being idle while Marcus was out there on his own.

Will sat down on a bed and rested his head in the palm of his hand, supporting his head. " Susan, before you act, you should think. I have known Marc my entire life and I never understood the way he thinks, but know I think I am getting there. Let us look at the problem at hand. Just bear with me."

Susan tapped her fingers on the table, creating an irritating sound. The moment William and Stephen looked at her she stopped. " Well, lets hear it!" She was growing impatient.

" You are a telepath."

Susan looked at him, had she told him? No way.

" It is fairly obvious, why else would the Cops come after you. You are rogue."

Susan sighed, her secret gone. " I’m a latent, but no way as strong as Marcus is."

" You have not yet confided in him. But Marcus knows." Will rose from the bed and stood in front of Susan. " He needs to know you can forgive him for not telling you. That’s why he ran. It is getting clearer all the time. He is hiding, but wants to be found. By you, Susan. You can locate him using the telepathic link you both undoubtedly have. By using your powers to find him he knows you have accepted the both of you being telepaths. Bugger, he is much more twisted that I imagined. This is something only Marcus can think of! "

" It makes sense to me." Stephen nodded. Marcus didn't think in straight lines.

Susan thought about Wills words. It was her biggest fear; using her telepathic powers and now it seemed Marcus forced her into it.

Marcus sat down on a bench in the gardens. He discovered a hidden spot, covered by all kinds of blossoming flowers. Their delicate fragrances filled the air and soothed his headache. He had briefly considered going to his quarters to rest but he was sure security guard or rangers looking for him would watch it. He didn't want to be found yet, not by them anyway. He hoped Susan figured out what his scheme was. He bent down and picked one of the flowers, a white lily. He lay it down on his knee, watching it.

Susan stood outside med lab, on her own again. Will had offered her his company but she had declined. This was something she had to do herself. She never used her ability this way before. She calmed her mind and focused on Marcus. < Marcus? Can you hear me? Where can I find you? Tell me where you are!> Susan desperately waited for some response. What if Will and Marcus had been wrong and she was too weak to find him this way? But she realized Marcus was strong enough to pick up her thoughts easily. She tried again. < Marcus Cole. I know you can hear me. You better answer me or you will be in even bigger trouble when I get to you!>

No words appeared in her mind. Marcus kept silent. Susan was getting mad. Then, all of a sudden she saw a flower in her mind. Flowers? She took the hint seriously. Flowers could only mean he was in the gardens. She marched to the elevator and sent one more message to Marcus. < If you haven't started answering me before I reach you I forget about thinking first before acting. Break that stupid silence or I...>

She wasn't able to finish her sentence when she heard a single word inside her mind.

< Susan?>

Marcus dropped the flower when he noticed her efforts to reach him. He could tell she was getting annoyed because he didn't answer her. The truth was he hadn't expected her to step over her personal boundary to find him. Now he was getting really scared, his courage leaving him quickly.

Susan saw him sitting on a bench, pale and tired. He appeared shaken. She felt the anger she had been keeping inside fighting a way to the surface. But she simply abandoned it. The Psi Corps attack had made her realize how fragile life was. They could have been killed. She didn't want to waste time by yelling at him. She wanted to be held by him and kiss him. < So, Marcus, satisfied?>

Marcus rose to meet her. His eyes big with disbelief. " You came to find me?"

< Off course, though you are a terrible pain in the ass I love you.>

" You do?"

< Marcus, you made me use these telepathic powers so I suggest you start doing the same thing. It looks rather stupid when you talk to me and I don't answer you.>

Marcus reached out to touch her hand. < You are not angry with me?>

< I wasn't completely honest myself. I didn't tell you I was a latent either.> Susan pulled him closer and laid her head on his chest, feeling his steady heartbeat. < You are not going to beat me up for this?>

< If you insist I am happy to do so.> Susan chuckled when he caressed her face. < You need to get back to med lab. You still have to deal with one mad Doctor Franklin.>

Marcus pulled her even closer. He had been so scared of losing her. < I will go with you. I had to know you were comfortable with me being a telepath.>

Susan knew he was honest. < I love you, Marcus.>

Will was absolutely charmed by Doctor Hobbes and had persuaded her to go on a date with him later that day. After that he went to keep Stephen company who was catching on the paperwork.

" I’m surprised you are not running about the station looking for Marcus. After all, you pride yourself on being his bodyguard!"

" I don't need to search. I got word from the rangers that he and Susan are in the gardens. Every step he makes is monitored closely."

" Is he still alive? The look in Susan’s eyes made me think she was going to kill him."

" Off course, he’s alive. I don't understand why everyone is so afraid of Susan Ivanova... Okay, she might act though but she has a soft interior."

Stephen laughed. He hoped Susan wouldn't discover how Will thought about her.

" Stephen, I return your patient to you."

Stephen looked up from his files as he heard Susan’s voice. Susan and Marcus were standing in the doorway, holding hands. " It was about time, get back to med lab One. I still need to run some tests on you."
Marcus' eyes were shining with mirth and he allowed Stephen to take him back to his bed. He was obedient and laid down. Will entered the room last and saw the enchantment looks on Marcus and Susan’s face. " Will, I need to talk to you about being my body guard. You shouldn't be doing that. You could get killed." Marcus grimaced when Stephen hooked him up once more to the monitoring device.

Will wondered about how well everything had worked out. He was thankful to Jeffrey Sinclair that he had sent him through time. He had never conceived his brother as being the next Ranger One. He slightly bowed his head to Marcus, receiving a look of worry. " We live and die for the one, Marcus and you are going to live and lead the rangers when the time is right. So shut up and get better. I still want to become uncle and you lying on an exam bed in med lab won't do the trick."

Marcus blushed and was promptly rewarded by Susan who kissed him full on his lips. A sweet promise of the future they were bound to share together.

THE END

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