A Dream Given Form: A Babylon 5 Self Insert

[DarkDestroyer]

Warner Brothers Discovery Owns Babylon 5. For Entertainment Purposes Only. Non-Profit.

I am on Mars. The Red Planet. Ares. Partially terraformed over the last two hundred or so years since the original colonists along with IPX drilling crews began reshaping the land scape to make it...suitable for human life. I say partially because at some point funding stopped and so did any kind of further land mass development on the planet. This Mars actually reminds me of "Total Recall" than anything. It is dirty, gritty, and dismal. Michael wasn't kidding when he joked that he hoped it didn't disappoint me. This is after decades of neglect, violence, and destruction. Repairs are underway from the bombings during the Battle of Mars. We purposefully only hit military bases to distract from what we were attempting to do with the main fleet, and also to give the Resistance an opportunity to fully seize control of Mars Dome One---which is where I am now.

The Translink tube stops at the main Mars station and I get off and present my ID card to the security at customs. They do a double take as they recognize me.

"Mr. Young. Sir...Mr. Garibaldi is waiting for you at Edgars. There's a car waiting to take you."

I nod as he gives me back my card and waves over another security guard and gives her instructions to take me directly to the Edgar's building. I have heard that most planetary security was provided by private Edgar's people. Now I'm sure most of them are former resistance now, hand picked by Tess and Michael to attempt to enforce what little law they have currently. Still signs of celebration around the place as banners, and ribbons are scattered across various streets. Walking has become somewhat normal again, I'm still astonished that I can feel muscle and bone in my foot. There's little pain, still just recovery pain. Stephen said that would last for another few weeks before it goes away for good. The security escort takes us to another building that I immediately recognize as Edgar's Industries because it has the huge logo slapped on it. It is strange being here physically, can't describe it properly.

"People in the building have been informed of your arrival sir, there'll be someone waiting for you in the lobby."

"Thank you." i reply as the car pulls up right to the entrance and I get out and head into the main doors. I pass through them and am greeted by someone from Edgars who offers to take me to the main floor, and I accept. It is weird being inside here---again I can't put it to words. I am escorted to the main office floor and shown in where I see Michael Garibaldi with a stogie sitting in an oversized leather chair, looking happier than I can ever remember seeing him.

"Adam! You made it. Thank you Travis." he acknowledges the escort who nods. Michael gets up and we exchange a hug as I put my bag down. I'm feeling jet lag now. I sit in the other big oversized leather chair.

"I have indeed made it...Michael...I'm exhausted...this had better be good." I say

"Oh, it will be. You'll like the new board members. You were of course right about the old ones. Had myself a time blackmailing them....and you weren't kidding about Tessa having dirt, she was the perfect choice to head Covert Intelligence."

"Why does the Board want to see me?" I ask

"They're mostly curious. They also want to know why we appointed you in the first place, someone who has no prior business experience, or degree--they also probably want to know if they can manipulate you at all." Michael is positively gleeful

"I see."

"So how are things?! How's the foot?" he looks down and I Can't help but smile

"For the first time in my entire life, I'm not in constant pain. At first in the immediate aftermath of the surgery and recovery, sure....tons of it...but it's subsided now that I've actually learned how to use it. It's also been incredibly emotional." I reply

"I can imagine...Lianna?"

"Is busy in her new job...but doing great. We've discussed somethings. Nothing major---Michael I need a favor."

"Shoot...just not in the back." Michael jokes and my eyes go wide---he really is happy. I couldn't be more happy for him.

"Lianna inquired about Elizabeth Lochley the other day, in a most unusual way---out of the blue---which for her is extremely rare, as she's blunt with everything she says."

"What are you concerned about?" he asks

"Nothing really, I'm just curious what they're connection is. If any."

"You could just ask your fiancée you know." He says and I sigh

"I know...okay. Sure. I don't know what I was thinking. So are the Board---here?"

"They are. We can recall them and introduce you in a few minutes if you'd like."

"I would." I nod

Michael presses a button on his desk.

"Madeline, can you gather the Board members please, tell them if any complain, that Mr. Young is here."

"Yes sir."


Together we head out of the office and down the hallway to the end where a huge room is. It is the room from the episode where Michael deals with the Board of Directors. I stand beside Garibaldi while the members of the Board shuffle into the room, one by one. They're all the replacement members Michael selected from "Objects At Rest".

"Ladies and Gentlemen, as you requested, straight from Babylon 5, and with a short fuse due to exhaustion and jet lag---our newest appointee to your illustrious group, I present Adam Christopher Young." I nod

"Greetings. It has come to my attention that you requested this meeting, I'm flattered. First of all I will allay any concerns you may have. I have no designs on anyone's job, or to step on toes. I agreed to this as a favor to Mr. Garibaldi. Depending on the vote---I will vote with whatever the Board's consensus is on any given matter. I share Michael and Lise's new vision for this company, and I am not here to babysit anyone. I expect you to all do your jobs, whatever those maybe entail , and I promise you---if you've concerns about lack of experience, which I'm sure most of us have anyways given how we were all hired---I will do the work to familiarize myself what needs to be done. I am not a threat, I am ally. Harm me or mine, and I WILL become a threat to you. You don't want that. Trust me."

"So with that out of the way...does Mr. Young's appointment to the Board, agree with all of you?" They all reply positively

"You're all dismissed. Thank you for coming." they all nod at me as they shuffle past

"Was that really necessary? I could have done this from Babylon 5."

"From the Bat Cave? Uh-uh. They needed to see you assert your authority from the beginning, and more importantly, clarify what your relationship with them will be. You did both. So---dinner? You must be starving. Lise is cooking a roast."

"I'd actually love that...and then sleep."

"Of course. The guest room's been made up."

"It's good to see you Michael. I mean that."

"It's good to see you too, Adam."

 

[DarkDestroyer]

Warner Brothers Discovery Own Babylon 5. For Entertainment Purposes Only.

Authors' Note: SUPER SHORT chapter. Plot heavy stuff coming up next.

Mars. The Red Planet. I still can't believe that I'm here. The Edgars Building naturally possesses the finest of everything---especially after Garibaldi has begun to upgrade it. I was warned not to go out exploring on the streets yet. Mars is still infested with crime, so much so that the reason for the extra security IS to protect the population. I can only imagine what it was like while the fighting was going on. This is something that the various governments, local and federal will have to deal with once they settle everything from being declared independent. This means my plan to explore is tossed out the window. I'm trapped at Edgars. The humor of it is not lost on me, trapped on B5, first time I go out anywhere---it's too dangerous. Trapped on Mars.

Lise is a charming woman. Has formed a quiet strength due to all of her experiences. I can see why Michael loves her so much. She's also incredibly funny, but Michael is the better cook out of the two of them, but not by a long shot. Her daughter---not Mary---she is yet to arrive--but her daughter with Franz---Francesca...is also staying with them now and is a delightful little girl. We watch Bugs Bunny and play Minecraft on Michael's supercomputer. Which reminds me, now that I'm a Edgars Board Member. I can afford to have a Cray sent to Babylon 5. Really create the Bat Cave now. I also can afford and have for some time now---upgraded quarters. I've been overpaying rent to compensate for having my quarters basically be free for the first year or so. I may have to consider this and annoy Elizabeth.

The Mars Senate is busy finalizing the legal part of being Independent. There will be elections held to elect the first President of Mars later in the year. The three names finalized for the planet are Dune, Ares, and Krakoa---the latter a nod to the X-Men comics of my time. I am hearing they are also considering calling themselves the Mars Confederation---but that will be decided much later, there's no rush for any of this to happen. We're off season for baseball right now, which is a shame, because I'd love to have gone to Mars Stadium over in New Vegas for a baseball game. It's Feb still so catchers and pitchers don't report for another couple of weeks yet.

Eventually though I am getting restless not being able to do anything here. I already came to do what I was requested for, it's so surreal that I am now a Board member of the biggest corporation in the galaxy---which is only going to get bigger under Michael's vision and my ideas! After I accepted their offer back in December, I sold the shares I had in the other corporations and made a pretty penny again. Having gone most of my life without having much money, and now having a CONSIDERABLE amount of it---enough to buy my own personal fleet if I so desired I'm told by my accountant---it's incredibly strange. I wish this happened back home! I head to Michael's office and tell him I'm leaving.

"This has been fun, but I'm bored, frustrated that I can't go anywhere, so I'm going back to B5."

"I'm surprised you didn't tell me this sooner. I understand. Thank you for coming. Lise packed you up some of her bread pudding you love so much, she and Francesca will be upset you're leaving."

"I'll be around I'm sure. Just so much to do and so much to see potentially, oh and that favor I asked about? Don't bother. I'll just ask Elizabeth or Lianna themselves."

"Good. Snooping around your significant other's personal business isn't a good idea. Trust me. I know."

Garibaldi comes around from behind his desk and gives me a great bear hug.

"You be careful you here? As Marcus would say---"

"Mind my surroundings!" we both say as Lise pops into the office

"What's going on?" she asks carrying a big Tupperware container

"Adam is leaving us." Michael says

"I have to get back to the station. Work needs to be done, and I can't do it here cooped up. Thank you for everything." she and I hug

"You'll be missed, Franny will be upset." Lise said handing me the container , Michael maybe the better cook, but not in deserts.

"I'll be back. I'm glad that I was able to get to know her. You have a good kid there, Lise, and a good partner." I look over at Michael

"Be safe, and your welcome at any time." I nod and give my thanks

I pack my belongings and a car takes me to the TransLink station and I nod to the escort. Mars. Desert Planet. The future is now yours to control. I hope you do great things.

 

[DarkDestroyer]

Warner Brothers Discovery own Babylon 5. For Entertainment Purposes Only. Non-Profit.

It is now June 2262 as we enter the summer months. The Raider project has gone mostly according to plan. It is amazing what you can accomplish when everyone is on the same page. Cooperation is a hell of a thing. Six months into this initiative and we've managed to already take out three of their major operating centers, and completely dismantle their operations involving the Drazi---of which the Freehold have been immensely grateful for and begun sharing their intelligence with us for the first time. Bester and the Telepath Expedition have begun their quest. There are a small fleet of ten IPX explorer class ships, with two Earth Alliance escort ships, and a White Star---on lone from the Alliance as a gesture of good will from us. The White Star has orders to shadow the group---and only intervene if there are any issues that should arise.

I've since relocated to VIP Quarters in Red 3. The most spacious quarters on the station---approximately double the size of senior officers quarters. I arrange with the Quartermaster for all new custom furniture which he bitches and complains about having to move.

"You know how much work all of this is going to cost...let alone the time? I mean there was perfectly great furniture already in THERE!"

"I'll compensate your employees for their time and effort. I'm already paying the techs for the installation of the Cray, this is no matter."

"I still can't believe you managed to convince Captain Lochley to allow you to have a freakin' Cray in your quarters!"

"Why not? I already had four state of the art monitors slaved together to an over worked drive. This was the next logical step, and it's not like I'm draining station power or anything."

"At least you don't think you are..."

"Look Phil...can I call you Phil? I feel like we've dealt with one another long enough to be on a first name basis."

"Sure..."

"I know this is going to be a lot of work, and take a lot of time---not to mention the fact that I am going to have to wait for all this stuff to arrive in the first place. So tell you what..."

I punch in a series of numbers in my little credit device and hand it over to him. His eyes bulge.

"Will this cover your hardship?"

"A thousand credits!! Are you serious?" he claims

"Deadly. That should take care of your entire department...and then some."

"It will. I'll take care of this personally for you." he exclaims

"Thanks Phil. I appreciate that."

My link beeps. I tap it.

"Young here go."

"Adam...you might want to come to MedLab. Asap." Lillian says

"What's happened?" I ask

"It's Ambassador Mollari..."

"I'm on my way."

The Very Long Night...

I make haste for MedLab which is actually not that far from my quarters now that I'm in Red Sector, but since I'm in Blue Sector right now it takes me about ten minutes to get there and Lochey, Allen, and Vir are all there outside the surgical theatre watching Franklin try to save Londo's life.

"How long has he been in there?" I ask

"Shortly after Dr. Hobbs called you..." Lochley

"He's been poisoned!!" Vir exclaims and I try not to grin

"We've been going over the shipment to see if there is---" Zack starts

"You need to tell us who did this to him!" Vir shouts hysterically

I wave them all off and fight from outright laughing. Lochley notices my expression.

"All right, calm down everyone."

"Calm down! Londo is in there fighting for his life, someone may have attempted to assassinate him and you want me to calm down!" Vir is hysterical

"Vir...it's not an assassination attempt. Zack, call off your investigation, there's no need for it." I reply trying to get some control of the situation

"What are you talking about? The Bravari's clearly been poisoned!" Vir insists

"Vir...he's had a heart attack. A massive one." I say very gently as if almost talking to a child.

"He's...what..." Vir reacts stunned

"Londo's had a massive cardiac arrest, specifically, his left. Because of how well it is protected in the Centauri chest cavity it is hard to operate on." I explain

Elizabeth looks slightly impressed

"I didn't know you knew Centauri physiology?" she asks

"I don't really...but I know the episode, and that's Stephen's diagnoses. Look...Vir...there's nothing you can do right now. Stephen will do everything he can for him, this is up to Londo now."

"It's mental?" Lochley asks

"Yeah. It's a crisis of character sort to speak. Londo has to want to come back to us."

"He does right? In the episode?" Vir asks

"Yes, he does." I reply

"Sheridan and Delenn have been informed. They'll be here shortly. They've been knee deep in Raider reports. Thank you Mr. Young." Lochley excuses herself and so does Zack as he goes to call off his investigation. I stand with Vir.

"It's strange. This happens in Jan in the show...what's Londo been dealing with lately?" I ask Vir

"Everything. He's been dealing with e-e-everything. Finalizing the treaty with the Narns, taking on the Prime Minister's responsibilities now that Vrini is sick. He's also been worried about Adira..." he turns to me and I frown

"I know. I promise that She is safe...but they can't be reunited until after the war with the Drakh is over."

"Why?" presses Vir and I exhale...as I pull up a nearby stool and offer one to Vir---he shakes his head

"Vir...can I trust you?" I ask with already knowing that I can

"What do you mean?" he asks as I stare at Stephen and his team working away at Londo. Oh Londo. You silly bastard.

"Vir...Londo is in incredible danger, and I don't mean from this."

"He has many enemies as you know, Mr. Young."

I make a decision.

"Vir...I've come to a decision and I need your absolute word that you won't tell or warn Londo of this. I give you my word though when the time is right---we will help Londo."

I see Vir's hesitation---I understand it. He's insanely loyal to Londo despite everything he has done. Why wouldn't he? Londo plucked him out of obscurity and elevated him.

"I don't know..." he replies

"Vir. I don't take this lightly. I wish it didn't have to be this way, I've racked my brain to come with alternatives---but there are none."

"What are you going to do?"

"Londo is going to be possessed by something called a Drakh Keeper. The Drakh want revenge for the role Londo played in destroying the Shadows. They're behind what has happened to the Prime Minister, and are waiting to do the same for Londo." I reveal and wait Vir's reaction

"You're using him as bait?" he finally asks getting angry again...this time at me.

"It's the only way. I need to be absolutely clear with you on this, nothing of what we talk about can get back to Londo---otherwise they will find out, and we're all cooked. Do you understand this Vir? This might be the single biggest secret you've ever been told in your career, and I know that's saying a lot."

"Yes."

"There is a plan that will be executed when the time is right, that's unfortunately in the future---but I hope it won't be too long. I know that you can do this Vir. It will be hard. Londo will push you away when this happens, you must allow him to do this...he's protecting you, as I was by not telling you anything---but we're going to need you to pull this off so I might as well tell you now. I'm gambling here Vir, with literally everything."

"The burden you have---I never really realized." Vir stammers

"It's okay. No one does, until stuff like this happens." I stand up and turn to face him

"I promise you...I give you my word that he will survive this, and that he will survive what is yet to come. He is after all LONDO FUCKING MOLLARI" I do a big exaggerated gesture and it gets Vir to laugh

"NOTHING must get to him." I repeat again

"I understand. You have my word now."

I put my hand on Vir's shoulder and the two of us watch as Stephen fights to save Londo's life.

 

[DarkDestroyer]

Warner Brothers Discovery Own Babylon 5. For Entertainment Purposes Only. Non Profit.

Author's Note: We're nearing the end now in the final stretch run. I hope you guys enjoy how this ends. We've only a few chapters left to go.

"You wish us to build you what?" Delenn asks confused

"A suit of armor." I reply in between eating handfuls of honey roasted peanuts

"Like what that Earth Force officer had?" an even confused Sheridan asks


I sit in their quarters and shake my head and produce from the inside of my jacket pocket a set of schematics. Their faces contort in a hilarious double frown.

"Absolutely not." Sheridan states

"I've done the research. The Minbari have the technology to replicate this tech. Especially with the remaining Vorlon technology they have in their possession, the AI capabilities of the suit would be tremendous. Beyond anything Stark could've come up with. There are no laws against this either, John. I've read up on that too."

Sheridan gets up and starts pacing around. He does that when someone irritates him or makes him angry. He often does this during conversations with me now.

"First of all...you're not a rated pilot at all. Secondly that thing would be a walking arms length list of interstellar weapons violations. Why the hell do you even need one? You're a lot of things Adam, respectfully, but a solider---and I hate to agree with Mr. Bester on anything---you aren't."

"I'll train on a Starfury, the weapon's this would possess---would be well within convention, and I need one because Mr. President, I'm mainly responsible for the two wars we're currently engaged in fighting. I may not be a solider, but I'm no coward either, and you yourself said---I'm a target now---well--this would give me protection from our enemies and any I personally have---that I don't know about yet." I reply

Delenn looks at John...she's coming around. He glances at her and says.

"Absolutely not. Don't encourage him." He says

"John..."

"No."

"Mister President. I will train with the best qualified Starfury pilot on the station---I looked that up---and tho and behold---it's our new Captain. It'll give the two of us a chance to bond further---which I know YOU want to have happen---and it'll get me over my fear of being in an even smaller tin can in space."

"What about the weapons systems? It'll be more than just ordering your AI unit to channel power through whatever God forsaken thing the Worker Caste comes up with?" Sheridan asks

"I'll train...on Tuzanor if that is what it takes. I haven't asked you for much John, I'm asking for this. A Suit of armor. That's all it is."

"A Goddamned walking time bomb...with an overambitious comic book nerd." Sheridan says

"Touche."

Sheridan looks at Delenn with their look and finally asks.

"Can Durlan and the Warrior Caste actually produce this...monstrosity?"

"They would have to examine the schematics. If there's any real science behind it...they will find the real world equivalent of it. They will look at it as a challenge."

"All right. How long?"

"A few months at most...it's hard to tell looking at these...crude designs." Delenn states

That'd hurt Tony, and probably the Marvel artist who drew these.

"Fine. But you talk to Elizabeth about this training asap and if she grounds you---the deal is off. Understood?"

"Yes. Mr. President."

Inside Captain Lochley's office---formerly Captain Sheridan and Commander Sinclair's office---I sit across from Elizabeth Lochley who is going over the latest Raider reports. It is looking good.

"You want me to what?" she asks over a cup of coffee

"Certify me as a Starfury pilot. President Sheridan has given his authorization."

"He what? This is a joke right? He's ribbing me? Getting me back for something?" She asks

"Not at all. You're to put me through basic Starfury certification training, the same as any Earth Force Pilot gets, if I flunk out---I don't get what I asked for."

"What did you ask for? It must've been something if you are willing to put yourself through this---you hate the prospect of being in a Fury." she has read my psyche profile

"I'd rather not reveal that right now. Let's just get me through this first and then I'll tell you what it's for." I say

"This is going to take weeks out of my schedule, all my down time." she grumbles

"I'll make it up to you."

"I don't see how you could possibly do that Mr. Young. All right fine. We'll start tomorrow morning at 09:00 don't be late---or else that'd be demerit number one."

"Understood sir."

"Is that all?" she asks and I nod

 

[DarkDestroyer]

Warner Brothers Discovery Own Babylon 5. For Entertainment Purposes Only. Non-Profit.

July 2262. Londo recovers from his hearts attack and despite Stephen ordering a complete stress free recovery, the Centarum in their infinite wisdom has chosen to recall him back to Centurai Prime in order to prepare him for the transition of power after Virini has passed away. Londo will become Regent of the Centauri Republic, then at the end of the year will Ascend the Throne of the Centuari Republic as Emperor Mollari II...yes...at some point in the planet's past---one of his ancestors was made Emperor, a historical fact that Londo rarely allows any one to forget about. It is also this ancestral link that even lets his House continue to be in the line of succession. I'm watching "Superman: The Movie" on my Cray Computer monitor when I'm suddenly interrupted.

"Come in." I say and Londo--looking slightly haggard---but no less regal in his Imperial Purple---enters.

"Ambassador---"

"Please...we are far past trivialities such as titles...call me Londo in private. You have earned it." for a Centauri noble to insist you call him by his informal name---even in private---is considered a high honor.

"To what do I owe the honor of your visit...Londo, and do you care for any refreshments?"

"Anything that I want...I can not have at the moment, as you know...thank you Adam. May I sit?" he asks and I nod as he settles himself into my comfy chair

"Why am I here...indeed." Londo asks as he pauses to observe the room and smiles

"You have done well for yourself Mr. Young, since you first mysteriously graced ourselves with your presence, yesss?"

"Thanks in part to your generous gifts....Londo. I haven't forgotten what you've done for me."

"That is exactly why I am here, because I have not forgotten what you have done for me--Vir tells me that you were with him, watching over me while I was...having my mid-life crisis..." he jokes

"Yes."

"I thank you for that---Vir is why I am here---Adam. As you know, I've been recalled to homeworld, Virini is sick---dying. They are preparing for me. I have been aware for some time that---you and the others have been keeping secrets from me on the Council..."

I knew he would figure it out.

"Londo---I" he waves his hand in a dismissive gesture

"Bah! Do not apologize to me. After the things I have done, and no doubt will continue to do---we are all allowed our secrets, eh? No...I do not care why you have kept things from me, knowing you now as I do---it is likely because I do something extremely stupid as Emperor---and you and the others will have to stop me?" he inquires and I put on my best poker face

"I thought as much." he replies and sighs and slumps back in the chair, and then sits back up and looks me in the eyes

"I am here for Vir---I would have one final request from you---that you look over him in my absence. He has grown a great deal in the last two years...killing Cartarsia has....changed him...I worry about him...promise me you will do this?" he asks

"You have my word that I will look after Vir, Londo." I reply

He's extremely important to the future of this galaxy, and to rescuing you---you silly bastard.

"Thank you...Timov?" he asks

"Will become Empress of course---and can take care of herself---especially from you---but if you wish her protected, I will make sure of it."

"Thank you...Adira?"

"You will see her when things are deemed safe for her...how that is determined---is up to to you Londo."

He nods sadly. He reaches into his jacket pocket and takes out a hefty looking velvet pouch and tosses it onto my desk....a good toss!

"In the pouch is one thousand Ducats. My final gift to you. I am aware you are on the Board of Directors of Edgars-Garibaldi---congratulations---but I insist you accept it. You have earned it and much more. If things were different...I would appoint you to the Royal Court---but I know you wouldn't come---and things are not different." he gets up

"You have my eternal thanks for what you have done for me and Vir---I will not forget it."

"This is goodbye then Londo?"

"What is the expression you like to say? It is Good Journey." he bows his head and I return the gesture

"Good Journey Ambassador Mollari." I say formally out of respect---he slightly nods in acknowledgement of the respect. I watch him leave. It has begun.

Later on in the month I spin around in the stations Aerotrim Gyroscope. I'm not surrreeeeeeeeee the speeeeed that I am goinnnnnnnggggggg innnnnnnnnnnnn but tthiiissssssssssss issssssss the firsttttttttttt timeeeeeeeeee I haventttttttttttttttttttttt thrown upppppppppp in ittttttttttt in a montthhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh.. It starts to slow down as Elizabeth monitors my vitals.

"That was good."

My breathing is hard....

"You're not in this fucking thing...."

"When you've reached your strength level you'll be able to control it yourself. "

"I don't understand why this is necessary. The Starfury's structural integrity makes none of this training... necessary." I state

"Lianna asked me to put you through this. She wants you to experience the full pilot training experience...and you still need to learn to withstand the G-Force."

"Lianna....that's the second time you've brought her up---" the machine stops and I'm unstrapped. My balance is starting to restore earlier now. That's good from the first two or three times I was in this thing.

"What---is your relationship with her if you don't mind me asking?" I say through recovery breaths

"Lianna and I were assigned briefly together to coordinate security at a Earth Force High Command conference on Ganymede. This---really sure be her story to tell you, but what the hell---we got close---and had a brief---relationship together." she smiles a shit eating grin at me

I look at her blank faced. She's been waiting to get me back for knowing about her and Sheridan.

"Y-you and Lianna?"

"For about two weeks yeah. I was a Lt-Commander at the time. She was making her way through the ranks quickly and the Joint-Chiefs were noticing it. The Conference was how she got put on Presidential duty eventually."

My head starts to whirl...thing about all kinds of...things....before I finally throw up and pass out.

 

[DarkDestroyer]

Warner Brothers Discovery Own Babylon 5. For Entertainment Purposes Only. Non-Profit.

Much later on after I've recovered I am sitting on Elizabeth's couch in her quarters. She pours me a drink of orange juice. A habit she picked up from her time being married to Sheridan. This woman is more mysterious than I gave her credit for.

"So...let me understand this clearly. You and Lianna were co-chair of a Earth Force Joint-Chiefs Conference on Ganymede---or wherever for two weeks back when you were a Lieutenant-Commander in between assignments, and she was being fast tracked for Presidential security?"

"That's right. We spent so much time together that it just---happened." Lochley shrugs as she sits down across from me

I take a sip of the orange juice. Nothing beats fresh. Nothing. I can understand why this is a thing with the high ranking officers. Even Stephen has fresh juice in his office from multiple races.

"We were working together literally 24/7 together. I handled the logistics and general administrative issues, while Lianna oversaw security. This is how she got the attention of the higher ups who recommended her for Presidential detail. The election was coming up shorty after and the rest is history."

"You stayed in contact after that?" I ask

"Of course. We knew it was just going to be a fling, but we also genuinely enjoyed each other's company and became friends. Why are you acting weird about this? You've shown yourself to be opened minded about things."

I laugh.

"It's not that I'm weird about that---I applaud it actually---I'm just a bit taken aback. Lianna has said nothing about this to me."

"The two of you frankly haven't spent that much time together---in a relative sense, and what should've been a normal vacation for you became anything but after the Keeper suspicion, so I'm not surprised. I'm glad to know that you don't know EVERYTHING about me." she jokes

I suddenly have a new found respect and admiration for Elizabeth that I didn't before. She's just not this one dimensional character we saw briefly on our television screens decades ago any more. I feel like I can trust her now...I wasn't so sure about that before this little reveal.

"You are a woman of mystery, Captain."

"Elizabeth...we're off duty now, Adam."

I lean back in my chair. Trying to let months of tension and stress out. I've not really talked to her yet about what she thinks of my...plan.

"I have something I need your opinion on, and I need you to be honest with me."

"Of course."

"What do you think about the proposed plan for the Drakh so far? Everything that I've outlined?"


Elizabeth exhales, gives me a brief hard look, takes another sip of her orange juice then replies.

"I think it is both bold and reckless. Having us deal with the Raiders was extremely inspired, I'll grant you that. There have been pushes for us to be more aggressive with them for decades, but no one at the Joint-Chiefs has had the will power to directly deal with them. Throwing the entire might of the Alliance against them to burrow them out and then strangle them was a good idea. Cutting off an arm for the Drakh. The reckless part I have an issue with is using Ambassador Mollari as bait to keep tabs on this...Shiv'Kala. You've explained it to us ad nauseum why this needs to happen, but it doesn't mean I like or agree with it."

"There's literally no other way Elizabeth. At least this way---"

"I hate to interrupt you Adam, but you're assuming things. The fact of the matter is that we don't possess any concrete intelligence on the existence or current operational status of Shiv'Kala or the greater Drakh Entire in general. Both the Rangers and Covert Intelligence despite their aggressive attempts, have failed to confirm activity on Centuari Prime or at Za'Ha'Dum. I understand you're basing your information on what you've seen from the show---but you've butterflied enough now that the Drakh may have decided on a different approach, or even use a different person as their point man. Have you considered those things?"

"I have considered that....and dismissed it." I reply

"Why?" she counters

"Because Londo Mollari is about to become the Emperor of the Centauri Republic. The Drakh have been slowly manipulating and awaiting this since the moment Londo pushed the button on the nukes that blew up the Shadows on Selini...I have absolutely no doubt that they are on Centauri Prime, at least a small portion of them."

"Then we need to flush them out into the open." Elizabeth demands her military hat kicking in strong here

I shake my head

"Not yet. Londo...can be saved Elizabeth. The key is to find and KILL Shiv'Kala. I have made this clear before. If we strike too early---we risk blowing our entire operation against them and forcing them to hide deeper---where we might never find them. Londo is the key, as is Vir."

"Cotto? Why?" she asks incredulously---she doesn't respect Vir yet. She will in time

"Vir is going to be the one to kill Shiv'Kala." I say coldly

It is then that Elizabeth suddenly sees me in a new light.

"You do have a plan." she realizes

"Oh yes. I realize that it's flawed, but I'm not doing this wily nilly. This is the long game we're playing here. A dangerous game that has a high risk factor for those involved in it, especially and including myself. This will take a few years---but ultimately MUST result in the death of Shiv'Kala."

"This is why you want the suit of armor. You don't just want it for protection...you want to be out there on the mission that liberates the Centauri." she says with respect

"Yes."

"Normally I'd want to kill the monster myself, but it is Vir's destiny to do it...I want to be there though when the strike team infiltrates the Palace. We will slowly create a false sense of security for Shiv'Kala. Convince him that his plans are working against us, then when we're ready---which I hope is in a couple of years---rather than the ten it takes in the books---we will execute our trap and ensnare him."

"Devious."

"Thank you."

"Does Lianna know this side of you?" she asks

"She's seen it once or twice now yes. She's partly responsible for honing it."

Elizabeth nods.

"We're going to skip the rest of the basic training and get you into a Starfury." she suddenly says

"WHAT?!"

"You were right about the zero g training...I was just fucking around with you---Lianna asked me to do it. You're quite correct about the structural integrity, having the cockpit in the centre of the fighter allows for minimal zero g force when doing high velocity maneuvers. We'll start when I'm off shift at 18:00 hours."

"Understood."

 

[DarkDestroyer]

Warner Brothers Discovery Own Babylon 5. For Entertainment Purposes Only. Non-Profit.

"Positively, absolutely NOT! The answer is no." Sheridan says as he starts pacing again

"John...this can work...we're not going to have another opportunity to do this for at least a decade."

"Then we'll wait for a decade! I'm not going to give permission for something so reckless."

"We'll save Londo, and end the war in one fell swoop." I insist

"You're assuming that will be the result of this action." Delenn replies

"You're taking his side?" I ask

"You are not ready for this kind of op Adam." Delenn says

"I've not been ready for any of this with all respect Delenn. This can work." I insist

"What if it doesn't? You're asking me to allow you to waltz in to the Emperor's throne room with an untested, unproven piece of highly volatile weapon...to confront an unknown, un-predictable, highly dangerous enemy." Sheridan argues

"I'm asking you to allow me to kill Shiv'Kala and save Londo's life...along with your future child's." I reply

"This vase...you said it contains a Keeper meant for...our son...in the future I saw---his name was David." he stops in front of Delenn and the two take each others hands

"That's right. David Sheridan II, after your father. The Keeper is from Shiv'Kala's birthing cache as well. It causes no end of drama for you both, and is hard on David as well. He tries bravely to fight it but can't and runs away for a while. Killing Shiv'Kala will kill the gestating Keeper in the vase, and prevent Londo from getting his. He might already have one now---it is imperative that we act now. This has nothing to do with me."

"What made you change your mind about this all of a sudden?" Sheridan asks

I sigh in the chair.

"I should have come up with this sooner. I knew the two of you would be invited---given what I have butterflied---I began to feel guilty that I haven't suggested that I go there. He will be waiting for Londo in the throne room---or Londo's chamber...we can do this John."

"You are asking for a dozen of the best trained Anla'Shok, our best Security, and G'Kar and Garibaldi?"

"Yes."

"Why not Vir, I thought it was destiny to kill Shiv'Kala?" Sheridan asks

"It was. I shouldn't have put this burden on him. He's still dealing with having indirectly killed Emperor Cartagia...this should be me. All of this has been my plan from the start, there's one more thing too."

"No." Sheridan doesn't hesitate with his answer

"Elizabeth has suggested this." I say and that gets his attention

"What?" he prompts

"We strike at Za'Ha'Dum...but it has too be a coordinated attack. The White Star Fleet needs to wait until after I give the confirm order that Shiv'Kala is dead. There will be other operatives they have on other worlds...but if we cut off the snake's head AND take away their nest..."

"Elizabeth suggested this?"

"Yes."

Sheridan exhales.

"You really want to do this? What of the Centauri?"

"They will thank us, especially you for liberating them from monsters that they had no idea were secretly controlling them this whole time. We will be able to accelerate the end of a war that hasn't begun yet."

"You really think it will work?"

"Yes." I say only half convinced this time

"Do it." Sheridan says

August 15. 2262. It is a grand ceremony as the Interstellar Alliance Fleet does flybys over the planet, and the White Stars roar over the capital building of the Republic capital. There is no battle this time as my butterflying has prevented the Drazi/Narn conflict with the Centauri. The disruption of the Raiders operations has put a wrench into the Drakh's operation they were not expecting. There is a great deal of pomp and circumstance as we see Londo's holographic image projected across the capital much like Skeletor from the MOTU film. This is a much different speech than the one he made in the series. A speech about hope, about strengthening alliances, and bringing back light from the darkness. It is a stirring speech. It is time as I put on the piece of hard ware for the first time. Sindell gave it to me personally and I see the red and gold plating light up as it activates to my DNA. Only I can use this device, I personally requested this safeguard. The rest of the suit is going to take time, and will be redundant now---but this was ready and I wasn't going to pass it it up. I march quickly with G'Kar and Garibaldi at my side as we catch Londo. I raise my left arm and point it at the shadow creature lurking by the curtains.

"It's over Shiv'Kala." I say as the device arms itself with a twining noise....Garibaldi arms his PPG as it makes his noise and the Rangers drop out of the top of the roof.

Londo stammers....

"I had nothing---to-to doo--

"It's all right Londo. It's over now." I say

"You! No--you'll" shrieks Shiv'Kala

I make a motion with my arm and a burst of powerful energy projects from the palm of the gauntlet and strikes at the Drakh clan leader. The others follow suit with their weapons. I then watch as my hunch was correct and we see Londo struggle---I wave off G'Kar and Garibaldi...

"No wait..." I say

We watch in horrific fascination as the Keeper reveals itself and unleashes a nearly unbearable scream...in realization that it's master has been killed. It lurches off as it untwists itself from it's host and attempts to flee on the ground....

"NOW!" I order as I blast it with a repulsor blast as do the others. It vaporizes immediately on impact.

"Londo---the Vase you're going to give to Sheridan--where is it?" I demand

"Over there...on the side table." he gasps

"Hit it." I order and Garibaldi blasts the vase and we see the baby keeper---it reacts suddenly and that's when I fire another pulse at it and it vaporizes. A ranger steps from the corpse of Shiv'Kala...

"He's gone sir."

I tap my link.

"Now Mister President." I give the signal

"Acknowledged. Will report when the operation has concluded. How is Londo?" he asks

"Will tell you after I ask him, sir." I reply

"Understood. Sheridan out."

I lower the Iron Man gauntlet and walk over to Londo---by now Centauri Royal Guards have burst into the room wondering what the hell is going on. Michael is reassuring them that everything is okay.

"Londo...your majesty---are you okay?" I ask

He slowly adjusts his jacket and gathers himself and then looks up at me with---gratitude.

"You never have to address me as your majesty for as long as you live, Mr. Young." he says and I nearly start crying

"Londo...I'm so so sorry---it was the only way---but I realized it was the wrong way---there was---" he puts up his hand as he heads to sit on the throne

"Bah! You do not need to apologize to me, I now realize that you have saved my life for the third time--and this time I demand that you be rewarded properly for it...but before all that---you have my eternal gratitude and thanks, I suspect you have saved me from decades of misery and bad choices---and I'm not sure that I deserve---" he stops himself as he gets emotional.

"Londooooooooooo!!!" we all hear suddenly Timov's shrill voice echo's in the hallways

"LONDOOOOOOO!!!!"

Timov, now the Empress of the Centauri Republic bursts into the room, demanding to see her husband. Followed by Vir.

"What's happened? What's going on?" she demands

"Mr. Young, my dear wife, has saved our people from being plunged into eternal darkness--as well as---unfortunately for you---my life." Londo chuckles

Timov approaches me and gives me that stern look of hers. Jane Carr. Played the role to perfection. She then does something I wasn't expecting. She hugs me.

"Thank you." she whispers into my ear and I hug her back

"You killed him?" Vir asks

"I did. I spared you from what should have been my duty to do."

The Link goes off

"Young here go."

"It's done. Za'Ha'Dum has been destroyed---your haunch was correct. We're in pursuit of a bulk of what appears to be Drakh forces. The Alliance fleet will chase them until we get them." Sheridan states

"Understood. There other operatives will go deep underground now. It'll be nearly impossible to find them."

"We'll do that too. You've done good work today Adam. I'm impressed."

"Thank you sir...you and Delenn should come see Londo."

"We're on all way."

It's over...the nightmare is over as I go sit down in a corner and rest my head in my gauntlet covered hand...