*01/30/96*

Atlantis is ready for her first mission, on the captain's birthday no less! The newest Earth Alliance Omega Class Destroyer and crew have performed beyond expectation. We will soon relieve our sister ship, the Agamemnon, now on patrol on the rim. As the former command of Captain John Sheridan, the Agamemnon has established a tradition of excellence which we will strive to uphold.

*02/06/96*

Soon after entering hyperspace I opened my sealed, secret orders from General Hague. The events he spoke of were not totally unexpected but were surprising none the less.

  Agamemnon has been guarding a previously unknown planet on
  the rim. During investigation of an unusual surface feature, the
  crew uncovered an artifact of the utmost importance to our efforts.
  An archive of Technomage origin, it contains data which certain
  factions of Earth Dome would possibly use against us in the
  brewing power struggle.  The Agamemnon will deliver the original
  to me, you will keep a copy in reserve, out of reach of Clark and
  his cronies. Use the planet link above to access the data. Erase all
  traces of our presence on the planet and continue on your "official"
  mission.  I will update you on our situation as soon as possible.

After much study of the archive, many of my questions are now answered. Have I done the right thing aligning myself with Hague and Sheridan? I think so, because something is lurking out there in the shadows, and the government isn't telling!

* 02/12/96 *

Life imitates art. I just received a coded transmission from Babylon 5 regarding infringement of personal rights by the Nightwatch organization. Some of their propaganda: * it is no longer appropriate for Earth Force personnel to publicly criticize the government or its decisions, * investigations have been expanded to include past associations, * certain individuals in the government will be expelled under charges of sedition, spying for alien governments, and immoral conduct, and get this, * the "abridgements" of traditional rights are only temporary and that everyone will have to do their part to keep Earth "safe and ideologically pure." Yeah, right. Once you lose something it's real hard to get it back. I was hoping this was an isolated incident but ISN Network is now trumpeting a recently signed law that may signal the beginning of similar activities back home on Earth. The "communications decency" section of the bill is being protested by 1000's of web sites by using black backgrounds and/or displaying the above Blue Ribbon.

Due to this recent news I am making a command decision. I will continue to patrol my assigned sector but will slowly position the Atlantis for an optimal jumpsequence to Babylon 5. Sheridan may need backup soon, the situation is very tense.

* 02/19/96 *

Hyperspace can grow on you. The skewed colors and perception hints at things just out of sight. I could just stare into the void for hours trying to pierce the veil of shadows. Time is pressing though, tests are being run, results are being processed and new theories developed. A modified "bonehead maneuver" using experimental, jump capable drones and points formed by the Atlantis should be possible, and survivable. The procedure is horrendously expensive and dangerous, but will give us a tremendous weapon when perfected. We are now in optimal position for a minimum time jump sequence to Babylon 5 should the need arise.

* 02/27/96 *

Clark declares martial law on Earth. Nightwatch is flexing its muscles, but who watches the watchers? On the Atlantis, I do. With means they do not have at their disposal, nor any defense.

I've received my own message from Earth. It reinforces my questions about the recent "alien attack" on the research station on Ganymede. I'll be initiating a jump sequence to bring us within striking distance of Babylon 5 within the week.

     Things are coming to a head here, they're trying for Babylon 5.
     Be prepared to assist in whatever is way is necessary. I'm doing 
     all I can on this end but most of us are already on the list. Use 
     your own judgment on how far you go with this. Clark is playing 
     the ISN news feed for all it's worth, I haven't found out what really
     happened yet, when I do either Sheridan or I will try to inform you.
                                              Hague out. 

* 03/04/96 *

I don't think the term "civil war" is too far off the mark now. Martial law, dissolution of the senate and Earth Alliance ships blasting each other to pieces in the void. Divided loyalities for us all, a time to stand or a time to fall. Sheridan has the situation on Babylon 5 in hand for now, at least until Clark hears about it. Hopefully his hands are full right now, giving me a window of opportunity to act. I will attempt to locate General Hague and the Alexander, if he is heading toward Babylon 5 perhaps I can smooth his way a bit. At least I don't have to worry about this crew.

* 03/11/96 *

As the situation on Earth continues to worsen, the name of this ship becomes ever more appropriate. Atlantis, a mythical, fabled land, with its truth shrouded in the mists of time. A highly advanced civilization, become decadent, following corrupted leaders, destined to be destroyed by the Gods in a single day. Atlantis, the name borne by one of 20th century America's space shuttles. A great technological triumph, the first fleet of reusable space vehicles. And a greater tragedy, when her sister ship Challenger died, and shadows fell on the heart of a nation. Atlantis, reborn as the newest of the Earth Alliance Omega class destroyers. Atlantis the legend, even in this day of reason, fascinating and influencing us with its secrets, still hidden deep below the surface. We too may be destroyed in our fight against Clark and the others who would enslave Earth. But we also have deep hidden secrets, the legend may yet be rewritten.

* 03/19/96 * *BEGIN ENCRYPTION*

We will go with the contingency plan to be implemented in case of my death. Sheridan to Babylon 5, and our sleeper to the Atlantis. Thank God we found him before PSI Corp, and he agreed to our proposition. After the treatment, he'll be safe from them at least. Not even a deep scan will detect his abilities, even he won't remember what was hidden. Whatever filters through to consciousness will be cloaked by his hunches and intuition. When the trigger conditions develop, everything will come back to him, or you may trigger if you deem necessary. When PSI Corp makes their move, we'll need those abilities to keep us on an even footing, and in the meantime he may just turn up something useful. This might be an opportune time to test the modified bonehead maneuver. We've done all we could, if our fears are realized, this may be our last communication. The future is now in the hands, and hearts, of our men and women among the stars.

Goodbye, Santaigo

* 03/26/96 *

Still no word from General Hague. Nor have I been able to locate any trace of him and the Alexander, their survival at this point seems doubtful. Sheridan and Babylon 5 will have to become the focal point of the resistance. And in doing so, most likely become the focal point of an all out battle also. The balloon is going up soon, we'll have to do what we can, with what we have to work with. Maybe it'll be enough. I've also been having strange dreams lately, must be the pressure of the situation getting to me.

* 04/02/96 *

"Sooner or later, everyone comes to Babylon 5. " They are coming, and soon. Here we will make our stand, along with Babylon 5, against a corrupted government. Will history remember us as patriots or traitors? The victors always write the histories, I guess that's an incentive for us to prevail. If we don't, I fear that soon no one will be left to read any history. Powers are stirring, this conflict is only one manifestation. I'm taking Atlantis into hyperspace, where we can strike from a position of concealment, if the situation deteriorates that far.

* 04/09/96 *

IN MEMORIAL OF THE MEN, WOMEN AND NARNS WHO GAVE THEIR LIVES IN THE BATTLE OF BABYLON 5. GOD HAVE MERCY UPON US ALL.

They came, they followed orders and they died, as did we. A dark day by all accounts. The guns of the Atlantis have spoken in anger for the first time, and against our own people. We opened a jump point behind the planet, caught one of the old cruisers attempting to place the station in a cross fire, and blasted it out of the sky. They never knew what hit them. A thing like this should never have happened. Clark will pay, one way or another.

*04/15/96 *

The fighting is over, for now at least. Time enough to rest, make repairs, and grieve for the fallen. The same Minbari ships that once struck fear in us, now cruise about like eagles guarding their nest. Under their wings we have found a refuge, but soon the eaglet must leave its nest and venture into the unknown. I spoke with Ambassador Delenn, thanking her for standing with us, and informing her of her new status. Our people have made her an honorary Atlantis crewperson. She seemed genuinely moved by this, more human than many who bear the designation from birth. On the command deck has been placed a token of her appreciation, a small crystal, from which glow in Human and Minbari script, the words: You Are Starstuff.

* 04/22/96 *

An incident has disturbed me greatly. While shaving this morning, I noticed something moving on the floor. It was a small black spider. Normally I look upon little pests that turn up onship as reminders of Earth, and her infinite diversity of life. This time was different, I stood there paralyzed, as if in the presence of evil incarnate. Into my mind came a vision of the spider growing, until the entire universe was caught in its web, waiting for life and light to be sucked from it. I KNEW I had to kill it! When I came to myself, the spider was gone, crawled off into some shadowy recess of the Atlantis. If I close my eyes it's still there, lurking on the edge of consciousness, waiting for its prey.

* 04/29/96 *

I have formally offered the services of the Atlantis in the ongoing defense of Babylon 5. I think our presence here will lend much needed support to our cause. Not so much in the military sense, but in the moral sense. The other races must see that not all of Earth Alliance sides with fear, oppression, and death. If we stand here, more may see, and join us. Even now Ryan is searching for the patriots left among our forces. I must confess a more selfish reason also, I'm eager to see more of that new ship, the Whitestar. Ah, to captain a ship such as that! I'm just glad she's on our side.

* 05/06/96 *

A private meeting with Sheridan on Babylon 5. With three words, a door opens, I become myself again, whoever that might be. I watch the memories of deeds done, choices made, paths taken, as if by someone else. Imagine giving up your sight, then forgetting you could ever see at all, until a sunrise burns the scales from your eyes. I *know* I was a potential Level 10 Telepath, I *know* Hague staged my death to escape the PSI Cops, I *know* renegade telepaths trained and prepared me for my underground mission, I *know* I captained a special ship and crew, insurance against what might come to pass. I *know* the future isn't what it used to be, it's much worse than we planned for. The Shadows are coming.

* 05/13/96 *

I would have liked more time to explore the new areas of my mind, but the universe doesn't wait for anyone. As my telepathic abilities give the Atlantis some protection from the Shadow cruisers, the observation mission fell to us. I am glad our participation in the battle was limited to that role, for we would have stood no chance at all against the energies unleashed there. The Vorlons have finally acted. At last a victory, and hope! Babylon 5 must be celebrating from end to end, we're heading back at top speed. In this case, I feel the need for speed is justified! For a change things went our way. When we get back I'm going wrangle a meeting with Ambassador Kosh somehow, if only to tell him thanks, before the next crisis overtakes us. They're a strange people, but they don't run, and they know how to fight.

* 05/21/96 *

Victory was in the air at Babylon 5 when we returned. That was before I was told the rest of the story. The Shadows struck back, and quickly. Not so much a military strike, but a strike to our hearts, our hopes, and our dreams. A great force in the army of light is gone, and will be missed in the coming struggles. I could easily find the one responsible, but it was decided to forgo that option. Better the devil we know for the time being. But I will remember, and plan for the future. Rest in peace.

* 05/28/96 *

Things are quieter now, quiet enough for some much needed shore leave on Babylon 5 for my crew. Atlantis is also long overdue for some rest, repairs, and maintenance. The modifications that give this ship its increased capabilities also make her more temperamental, more demanding, than a standard Omega. All in all though, the ship and crew have been all I could ask for and more. We will rest, integrate what we've learned, and train for what is ahead. This is the calm before the storm, we must use this time wisely.

* 06/04/96 *

Ship maintenance is preceding well. In spite of the many new, mostly untested systems, Atlantis is in fine shape. Many advances have been made since the original Omega lifted from her space dock, soon after the Earth Minbari war. Our two fusion reactors take up more space than the single unit of the older vessels, but provide vastly increased power output. In fact, we can open a jump point with one reactor off line, although just barely, and with no power to spare for the weapons. This higher output is put to good use by the upgraded laser and particle beam arrays. They have an increased "burn" time and longer range. We are faster, stronger, and better protected than any previous Omega, but have given up some cruise duration and crew living space. We need more frequent "tune ups" also, but I don't think anyone would transfer off this ship. Leave the only former EA ship able to pull a "bonehead" and survive? I don't think so!

* 06/10/96 *

You might not think technology from the Star Wars Initiative of the 1980's would offer much to us today. How to cram a power hungry jump engine into something shuttle size? 20th Century tech gave us an answer. One proposed space based X-Ray laser was to use a tiny, contained nuclear explosion to power the device. We have adapted this quick and dirty technique to develop a one shot, jump capable drone. It doesn't last long until the reaction consumes the drone, but it doesn't need to, just long enough to open a jumpoint. With it we can blow a gate by remote triggering, or we can open a jump point of our own and send the drone through. With our new, high output reactors, we can open the point far enough away to make the "bonehead maneuver" survivable. We have 2 drones left, a nice little surprise for some unsuspecting foe.

* 07/01/96 *

I've been testing my abilities to locate vessels beyond normal detection range by telepathy. I wonder if there might be another weapon here. The hyperspace environment greatly enhances the ability, would a fleet of ships with telepathic crewpersons be able to maintain contact, and more importantly maintain "radio" silence during an operation? If so, this could be a major tactical advantage. Unfortunately what's left of the underground railroad are mostly untrained, and I am in need of advanced teaching myself.

* 07/01/96 *

Once again the strange colors and textures of hyperspace rage outside the hull of the Atlantis. As we jump to Orion 7, I open my mind, and cast it upon the void. A bridge, built by the power of human thought, spans the distance between us. I feel her, as if we were in the same room, breathing the same air. I reach for her as our thoughts swirl together, becoming reality for a brief moment. Immaterial fingers brush my lips, I sense her smile, then we pull apart, separate again. We communicate, mind to mind, over vast expanses of hyperspace. In fact, the distances involved seems less important than the depth of communion shared by us. Even now, we are closer than when I waved good bye to her at Babylon 5. And it becomes stronger, deeper, with each new contact. And so it begins.

* 07/08/96 *

She was the product of the PSI Corps breeding program. Two adults who didn't want each other, saddled with a child neither desired. She couldn't understand the lack of love and blamed herself. When PSI ability manifested itself, the Corp quickly stepped in and became the parents she had always lacked. Finally she was wanted, needed, even held up as superior. Testing revealed P12, possibly P13 potential. Quickly though, the fist within the PSI Corps glove became apparent and she fled. An independent Babylon 5 was a logical destination. The transport was intercepted by raiders and she called out the only way she could.

* 07/17/96 *

Atlantis was in hyperspace when I heard her cry. As surprising as the power of the call itself was how I seemed to recognize it. Nothing I could put into words but there was a link there never the less. It was like I already knew her, knew the flavor of her mind. She was an enigma on the edge of awareness I had always been reaching for, but never quite able to grasp. I vowed this time would be different. Driving our hyperspace engines far beyond safety limits we prepared for battle. I sent ahead that help was on the way, and prayed I would arrive in time.

* 07/23/96 *

It was a passenger/supply ship, the Far Star, bound for Babylon 5. In the confusion of war, the raiders thought to escape with a rich prize. Locating her by our mind link, I opened the jumpoint right on top of them. Our beams carved the life from the raider mothership while our starfuries dealt with the fighters. Scant minutes later I led a boarding team to the Far Star to deal with the remaining raiders. Too late though, they had already herded the crew and passengers into a cargo area. It was a stand off, and the killing would begin if we didn't supply a shuttle and a hostage. In each other's mind, she and I made our plans.

* 07/30/96 *

Too many for us to directly control, even linked as we were, we resorted to other means. It only took a little mental prodding to convince the raiders to keep her, and ask for me, in return for the prisoners' freedom. The exchange took place, and I, securely blindfolded, was led into the cargo hold. Because of the 0-G environment, my hands were bound loosely enough to allow some limited freedom of movement. After all, I needed to control my drifting, and besides, what could a blind man do to 3 armed men? Their mistake, my "eyes" were waiting just beyond the pressure door.

* 08/06/96 *

Like passing through a mirror, I watched with her eyes as I floated into the cargo hold. The raider leader decided retribution was in order, and after guiding me to the 0-G footholds, aimed a blow from the but of his PPG rifle to my midsection. The surprise was only beginning to take hold in his eyes as I twisted aside, caught the rifle, and erased this blight from the soul of humanity. Quickly calculating the firing angle from a viewpoint not my own, I did the same favor for raider #2. The finger of raider #3 was tightening on the firing stud as our combined mental onslaught blasted his consciousness into oblivion. Safe now, she removed my bonds and cut away the blindfold. Opening my eyes I looked, for the first time, upon,,,,, Allison.

* 08/13/96 *

My link chimes, bringing me back from recent memories. It will soon be time to leave this planet, to wing Atlantis though the void, back to the one who awaits me on Babylon 5. My mission to Orion 7 has been a success on many fronts. At a summit consisting of Earth's break away colonies, I told what had not been heard before now, the truth. The Shadows have returned after a 1000 years of sleep. They too are now pledged to stand with us against the coming darkness, bringing to bear resources only planetary economies can afford. I've also been able to rotate the entire crew for some extended shore leave onplanet, a definite morale booster, especially when it becomes available to the rest of our people on B5.

* 08/19/96 *

Our hyperspace/telepathy experiments have not been as successful as the diplomatic mission though. My link with Allison continues to expand and strengthen, to the point we can, across the distance between B5 and Orion 7, vaguely touch each other's mind . With one in hyperspace, direct communication is possible. Both there, we can become virtually one mind. We have not been able to duplicate this merging with any other combination of individuals, and I am secretly pleased with this. I don't wish to share our communion, or her, with anyone else. In my mind she sees, smiles, and says, I'll always be here.

* 08/26/96 *

Babylon 5 shines, like a beacon in the starlight, as Atlantis resumes station. Our mission, for now, complete. It is home, until we stand upon a free Earth again. In my years with the EA I have walked many worlds, watched strange suns set on far horizons, and drank the majesty of stars like diamonds in void. Still Earth reigns supreme, the one mother who bore and nurtured us, until we, her children, sprang forth into the universe. Dark times lie ahead, but we will not forget, you will be free again, when light drives the shadows away. Then, as the stars slowly fade from sight, we will sit, my Allison, by the sea and watch as a new age dawns.

* 09/02/96 *

The Shadows, just what are they? Possibly a better question is *why* are they? Legend has it they are the most ancient of all races, old before Earth itself was born. A question arises, why haven't they gone the way of the other Old Ones, who also according to legend, have passed beyond the veil? We see them as evil, but is that their true nature, or merely a mirror of our own hidden darkness? Is it the only characteristic our limited perceptions can apply to them, or is that how they *choose* to appear to us? If the Shadows are to be defeated once again, we must learn more. Why are they still here concerning themselves with the younger races. What do they want?

* 09/09/96 *

Knowledge strikes from the strangest places. Picking a song at random from my music database, I was chilled by this chorus. "I'll sleep in this place with the lonely crowd. Lie in the dark where the shadows run from themselves." It seemed strangely prophetic to me. Must we enter the darkness, become like the Shadows themselves, to defeat them? If so, what will be the price of our victory? Our selves? Our souls? Eric Clapton, as you sang "White Room" so many years ago, somehow I think you knew what we face today. From the past you may have given us a key.

* 09/16/96 *

Minbari techs swarm through and around my ship. Installing, testing, modifying and retesting. During the Earth/Minbari War, it was not lack of raw power that caused our near downfall, it was our inability to achieve a weapons lock on. During the ill-fated first contact that began the war, technologically inferior EA ships wreaked havoc among the Minbari, causing even the death of Dukat, before they engaged their stealth devices. Atlantis no longer has that weakness. In preparation for our next mission, Delenn has given us the knowledge and equipment necessary to penetrate their stealth tech. A mission to Minbar itself!

*09/30/96 *

Again the strange vistas of hyperspace taunt me with images of something half seen, half imagined, just beyond the shadows of night. It knows we are here, and knows we will meet soon, as the forces of Light take the battle to the enemy. These Rangers know it too, even a non telepath could feel the anticipation, that something in the air, that bespeaks history in the making. But first they must arrive on Minbar safely. In rotation, Allison and I keep up a constant telepathic vigil, and our new Minbari sensors scan for more physical threats. The jumpgate is the choke point, if there is to be treachery, there will it occur. If Minbari kill Minbari, we must survive long enough to get word back to Delenn.

*10/07/96 *

MINBARI WARSHIP, I HAVE YOU IN MY SIGHTS! DON'T MAKE ME FIRE! They were waiting for us. Stealth measures engaged, positioned to destroy the transport, laying the deed to us. No doubt to demonstrate just how dishonorable we humans are, before blasting us in retaliation. As they maneuvered on an attack vector, Atlantis very precisely sliced off one of the Minbari ship's beam projectors. YOU CAN TAKE US, BUT NOT BEFORE WE OPEN A JUMPOINT AND COVER THE TRANSPORT'S ESCAPE. ESCAPE WITH A FULL RECORDING OF WHAT HAPPENED HERE. I AM READY TO STAND WITH YOU AND FIGHT AT YOUR SIDE IN THE DARK TIMES AHEAD, OR FIGHT AGAINST YOU HERE AND NOW. IT'S UP TO YOU. What may be my final minutes tick away as I await a response.

*10/14/96 *

In neutral space between our ships, he faced me across the confines of my shuttle. "Why didn't you destroy us when you had the chance? You would have died soon after, but my clan would be disgraced when word came out. A perfect opportunity for Delenn to consolidate her control on Minbar. Honor must be accorded you now, and I myself have to admit a grudging respect. Go now, send the rangers to their destination, they will be needed soon. I will trouble you no more. And perhaps one day, we will stand side by side to fight, and possibly die, for a common cause." I stood and offered my hand. " I could ask for no finer compatriot, Jothenn." Much later, I watched his flyer disengage, and fade from sight. I stared into the starscape for a long time before I laid in a course back to the Atlantis.

*10/21/96 *

Minbar sparkles like a jewel set in the black velvet of the night. Facets of polished stone and crystal, fountain and water fall. Before departure, Allison and I visited the Shrine of Valen. Sinclair, you were a legend in Earth Force. If only the whole story could be told. You were the first, a bridge between two great races, a beginning. Delenn continued, a further melding of destinies. Will a third one bring about a true union, a new age for all races? Allison's thoughts gently intertwine. *We must go soon. The fleet is waiting.* Yes, and victory or defeat, life or death. I would take you now and flee beyond the rim to escape it, were it not for duty and honor. *We will stand, or fall, together always.* A moment of communion, embraced by the living, breathing planet, starlight glistening in her hair. We rise on wings of fire to face the coming storm.

*10/28/96*

Battle is joined. Killing fire laces the void, as ships die in the night. We attack, the power of two linked Human minds stunning Shadow ships, as Atlantis and her squadron unleashes fury upon them. But there are so many! Four crowd nearer, overcoming even our telepathic onslaught. We shift, mental shield now a diamond hard needle of force, which Allison lances into the core of the largest Shadow ship. Not to disable, but to open a hole. I plunge past faltering defenses, and wrest control from the being shackled within. Through terror, pain and screaming darkness, I slice two with a purple beam before the remaining ship finds my range. At the speed of thought I disengage, too late. Allison reaches out, but my consciousness slips through her fingers like sand. *Goodbye, my love, goodb,,,,,*

*11/04/96 *

I claw up the precipice of consciousness, up from the darkness of the pit. A Vorlon stands at the summit, and speaks, **Afraid**. Who, I ask, me? You? What do you mean? **Yes** it answers and is gone. Then I'm at my desk looking at a picture of Allison. Only there is a void where her face should be. **Who are you?** I look around but there's no one there. I shout "I'm,,,,," and stop. Who am I? I have no idea. I'm kneeling by the shore of a lake. I can see the reflection of dark clouds passing overhead. In my reflection there is only a whirlpool where my face should be. I try to resist but am pulled down into it, back into the darkness again, back into,,, myself. I awaken in Sick Bay, and the solid reality of Atlantis. She holds my hand, through tears she speaks, "I was afraid you were gone." Her thoughts settle around me, to sooth, heal and protect. "Not without you" I say just before I drift off into sleep, "Never, without you."

*11/11/96*

I find that during my unconsciousness, the battle was won, but the war may have been lost. Because of Sheridan's sacrifice, the Shadows are weaker now than they ever have been, a target begging for a final retribution. Only no one is left to fight now. Enlightened self-interest is fracturing our alliance. The Rangers and the Minbari remain, but the heart seems gone from them. And the Vorlons,,,,who knows what they are up to, what their real agenda is. Delenn, it's all up to you now, don't let what you've built die.

*11/18/96 *

The fleet is assembling. Rangers, a few remnants of the alliance, and the Atlantis. To strike, one final blow, against Z'ha'dum. To fly, one last time, on wings of fire in the night. To stand, united, against that which would separate us. And to love, without reservation, before the curtain falls on the play of our lives. We've all heard the rumors about Z'ha'dum, no one returns from there. Even the best of us, one known for surmounting impossible odds, seems to have succumbed. You did not go down easily though, or alone. Neither will we.

*11/25/96*

A hero returns, evoking an aura of legendary status. A great mystery this, as is the rescue of another thought lost. We are united again, under Sheridan's leadership, but has the agenda changed? And how will the other worlds react to the Vorlon solution? I assumed that mysterious race would be eager to strike Z'ha'dum with the fleet, but evidently they have another plan in mind. As overjoyed as we are to have Sheridan and Garibaldi back, a dark shadow hangs over, I can feel it. Things have changed, something is hidden, and we are in the middle.

*12/02/96 *

As always, things change. Events, and preparations for them, track into new possibilities. Light to dark, and the intervening gray. The Shadows were bad enough, but the Vorlons may be even worse. Their planet killer is an awesome weapon. With technology of that level, why did they even bother recruiting us against the Shadows? It seems that their time has now arrived. What opened the door for them I do not know, but they are out in force now. I only hope they are too busy at the moment to react to the loss of their ambassador. Starkiller, you're building up quite a record of impossible kills. I hope your luck, and ours, holds out.

*12/09/96 *

The fleet grows ever larger, hour by hour. Delenn's White Star fleet augmented by the Alliance ships, now trickling back after Sheridan's impassioned speech. It will be awesome, I feel privileged to be part of this legend in the making. Win, loose, or draw, I don't regret the chain of events that have led me to this, and to Allison. Choices, choices, the past makes us what we are today. All I could ask for is more time. I think back through the years, to a child standing alone by the shore. Waves gently lapped as the sun sank below the horizon. A million stars emerged, diamonds in the night. He looked up, smiled, and whispered to them "I want to go!"

*12/16/96 *

"I want to go" he repeated. The stars, in their silent splendor, did not answer. The choice was a difficult one, a fork in the road of his life demanding an answer. The career councillors, the constant battery of compatibility tests, pointed down one path. Safety and security beckoned, and ultimately, boredom. An office cubical, a vid screen, numbers, facts and figures. And a longing for what might have been. The other path lead to the stars. Earth Alliance, expanding into the universe, was eager to enlist promising young people. He thought of the Centauri with their funny hair, and of the mysterious Vorlons. Out there lay danger, sacrifice and hard work. But oh, the chance to stand upon a new world, and watch its sun rise over the horizon,,,,,. A decision made, he turned and walked back up the path to tell his parents.

*12/23/96 *

Years later, strapped into the cockpit of a Starfury, those same stars held danger as well as wonder. Escort duty was dull, except when it suddenly became deadly. But even before the detectors chimed, that strange sixth sense alerted him. Nearly blacking out from G-forces, he aligned his weapons where he KNEW his opponent would pass. As the sleek raider swept in from the night, reality coincided with his mental image and he fired, KNOWING there would be a hit. A new, short lived sun flared and quickly faded. The flight instructor came online, "Just what is it with you?" he asked. "It's like you know every move before I make it. Must be a mind reader or something! Allright, everyone back to the barn." Another test completed successfully, victory fresh in his mind, the significance of those words didn't register at the time.

*12/30/96 *

The realization hit him later that night. "Must be a mindreader or something." A chill erased elation that was building as he lay in bed, reviewing the day's events. This changes everything he thought, I might actually be a telepath! If the propaganda could be believed, PSI Corps had a place people like that. The rumors though, isolation from the normal population, an indoctrination of superiority and forced breeding programs, marred the image. If he turned that way, they would take away freedom, to be himself, and to be what he wanted to be. The price was just too high, even with the risk of the PSI Cops finding him out. Now he would have to learn control and concealment, to keep his own mind a secret from itself.

*01/06/97 *

The morning brought an even more momentous change. Word came of a disastrous first contact with a highly advanced, previously unknown race, called the Minbari. Conflicting rumors raced the complex. We kicked their butts good, they fired first, it was a misunderstanding, there was a coverup, and on and on. Only two things were known for a fact. #1: The Prometheus had fragged a number of Minbari ships, barely escaping destruction herself in the ensuing confusion. With most of the EA fleet overcome, she fled back to base, with the Minbari not far behind. #2: The Minbari had stealth technology beyond anything yet encountered. When they finally reacted, they were virtually unstoppable. The EA heavy cruisers had ample firepower, as evidenced by the destructiveness of their initial attack, but they couldn't hit what they couldn't track. All training and classes were canceled that day, as a story was put together for public consumption.

*01/13/97 *

The war was going badly. So badly it could not be called war. That implied too much equality. Earth's colonies fell one by one, as every defending ship was shot out of the sky by the Minbari. No longer bothering to occupy the captured worlds, they just continued on to the main target, Earth itself. Success left them careless though. A pattern had been detected, and a plan was enacted. From his Starfury, with every sense and sensor pushed to the limit, he reported. "The asteroid field seems clean Captain. I think we've made it in time." After a moment the reply came. "Good. Form up and escort us in, we've got some eggs to lay before the Black Star gets here. Sheridan out." Tucked in near the massive heavy cruiser, they descended into the maelstrom, with a cargo of death.

*01/20/97 *

"THEY'RE HERE!" he radioed back. Lured by a fake distress call, not even bothering to cloak, the pride of the Minbari fleet bore in. The only Human capital ship to escape the last battle lie in their sights. Dodging energy discharges with more instinct than skill, he lead them toward Sheridan's ship. Nuclear fire erupted in the night as the hunter became the hunted. Hundreds of mines shredded thousands of tons of asteroidal material, a shotgun blast of epic proportions. He saw the Black Star crumple, a toy in an angry giant's fist. Moments before the shock wave stripped consciousness away, he saw three more Minbari cruisers share her fate. He thought he heard someone calling as the darkness engulfed all remaining thought.

*01/27/97*

~Wake up.~ Gentle thoughts echoed, calling him back from memories. Back to the present, where another desperate battle would soon take shape. ~You really should get some sleep, but not at that desk. You know what's happening tomorrow.~  Allison's love and concern washed over his senses, threatening the resolve. He opened his eyes, brought up a mental block, and spoke aloud, "Yes, and I know you should be back on Babylon 5 where you'll be safe."  Concerned, she spoke also, "Safe is a fuzzy concept right now. But I'll stay, if you can prove that's what you really want. Let me back in". Then she would know. That although he loved her more than life itself, and wanted to spare her the coming battle, he wanted her by his side even more. A selfishness that could cost both their lives. Full of shame, he softened the mental shields, and she understood, and answered. ~Where you go I will go, and where you stay I will stay~.

*02/03/97*

The Fleet has formed. Never before have I seen its like. Ships of every race fill the night. It is the stuff of legends. A legend that will live on, whatever the outcome of this. Everything that could be done has been done. Atlantis is ready, her weapons  charged, her Star Furies a protective swarm. Allison stands telepathic guard over us, and I,,,, I vow to burn this galaxy to cinders if anything happens to her.  Now choices and actions will decide the direction a living universe will turn. This is the turning point, the advent of a new age, the next chapter in the book of Humanity. More than that, a new book of which humanity is but one chapter. As we are all one now, Humans, Minbari, Drazi, Vree, Brakiri and all the others. We will stand, or fall, together. Bring it on!

*02/10/97 *

The War is over, the universe made new again. We are all alone in the night now, no superior races standing over, bending us to their unknowable purposes. The battle was brief and devastating, but in the fire a new unity was forged. We made a choice, to stand or fail on our own, without interference. And now the responsibility, and a galaxy, is ours. I wonder though, are we ready? Can we maintain the newfound oneness, or will we fall to petty bickering again? Already my thoughts turn to Earth, and how to set her free of  President Clark. And the Minbari, Delenn will have troubles of her own at home. The Centauri, the Narn, so many broken pieces to be put back together. If we only have the time.

*02/18/97 *

The Victory celebrations are winding down, reality is setting in. But just how long will Clark stay his hand before striking Babylon 5? With his Shadow Allies gone, he has to be becoming desperate, I'm sure he has some underhanded plan in mind. He can't take us by force alone, he will have to undermine the trust and confidence that has been built here. And soon, because he knows eventually we'll come for him. I have just received an encrypted, ship specific transmission. Personal key decoding is in progress. By the method of transmission, it has to be from high level Earth Force personnel. Who are they, what do they want, and whose side are they on?

*02/25/97 *

Since the Babylon 5 uprising, I've received many secret transmissions. Disreputable shipping companies willing to pay by a percentage of "salvage" recovered, piracy in polite terms. Crackpots, in need of transportation, wishing to set up Galactic Empires beyond the rim . Propagandists of the EA offering forgiveness if I "take care of" a certain space station. A harmless nut offering a complete collection of 20th Century Science Fiction, Asimov, Brin, Niven, Herbert, Bear, everyone who was anybody back then, all in original mint condition paperback. All for a round trip into a black hole. Too bad I can't guarantee the return leg, I'd love to get my hands on those books! This last transmission is more troubling though. It bears the authentication of someone in Earth Force I may still trust. What he wants is very dangerous, but worth the risk. Assuming of course it isn't a trap.

*03/03/97 *

According to my informant, resistance is growing among Earth Force personnel. Because Clark ruthlessly crushes any dissidents, no one has moved against him. If only someone from Babylon 5 would come to reassure them, he says. Let them know they would not stand alone, when the time is right for action. I am sure it is a trap. But the possibilities beckon, and I do consider my contact a man of integrity. We haven't had any direct information from Earth since Dexter's religious delegation last year. Now with the embargo, a first hand  feed is impossible. So against my better judgment, I will go.

*03/10/96 *

At the boundary of Earth Planetary Security Net, I pause at the limit of detectability. Because of the jumpgate blockade, I have taken a more direct route to the home of Mankind. Opening her own jump points, Atlantis has taken me as far as she can without compromising secrecy. Now she waits in hyperspace, with Allison onboard, for my telepathic pickup signal. I will make the final leg alone, in a specially modified Atmospheric Capable Thunderbolt Starfury. Borrowing techniques from the PSI Cop Black Omega squadron, it has been made as stealthy as possible. It should get me to the surface of Earth undetected, and if all goes well, back to Atlantis after my mission is complete. Casting telepathic awareness into the night, I weave through a net of sentry ships, mines and detector emplacements, as a blue planet grows before my eyes.

*03/17/97 *

For the first time in years, I plant my boots on the soil of Earth, and breath her fresh, unprocessed air. The ocean waves sparkle in the night as they roll onto the beach, catching the reflections of the million stars overhead. I have landed on a remote island near the area I grew up. Now a nature preserve, it is an ideal area for a clandestine meeting. As far as I can tell, I have arrived undetected. My Thunderbolt, now covered by a modified changeling net, gives a convincing illusion of  being a sand dune. I hike a few miles down the beach and activate the transponder to the agreed upon frequency. The moon and stars look down as I wait for the response. 

*03/24/97 *

Something breaks the ocean surface a short distance off the beach. A sport submersible, the multipurpose "taxi" common to the underwater resorts in the area. As it nears the shore, I note the stubby delta wings that mark it as atmospheric flight capable. Quite a versatile little machine. The hatch opens and a figure appears. Now in line of sight, I quickly scan for any deceptions. She seems honest as far as I can tell, there is no time for anything more. "Are you going to just stand there or get on board?" she calls. No nonsense for this lady. I climb in and she seals the hatch before I even strap in. "It's my responsibility seeing you off planet again safely. What we're doing is important, but it doesn't mean I look forward to getting shot for treason." For all her tension and anxiety she pilots her craft with a smooth confident hand, and soon the underwater resort comes into view. 

*03/31/97 *

This underwater playground is a strangely fitting location for a conspiracy. Hidden beneath the depths, we embark on our stealthy tasks. Wafting in and about the shadows of the depths, while the unaware continue on, unknowing as to what lurks beneath them. The waters are troubled, turbulent with as yet unleashed power. I feel the strength of  this rising tide of freedom. Clark  has overplayed his hand. He has taken too much, too fast, too cruelly. He has sown  the seeds of his own destruction. I have watched a fragile shoot of hope take root, and grow in the men and women here. I reassured them that Babylon 5 has not forgotten, as they have not forgotten us. As we exchange information it strengthens, reaching upward toward the light. Soon it will blossom, and Earth will be free once more.

*04/07/97 *

A worried looking officer enters our conclave. "They're onto us! We're picking up security alerts and a patrol overflight has been vectored into the area. If  you don't get back to that Thunderbolt right now, all this will have been for nothing. Take the data and go, NOW!" My pilot escort is ready to launch, I dive into her ship and we speed for the beach. She looks grim as we break surface and land at my cloaked Thunderbolt "Too late Captain. I'm picking up bogies. You'll never launch in time. Without a diversion that is. Remember me when you fragg those,,!" The remaining words are cut off in the roar of thrusters. The little ship takes to the sky as patrol craft arc out of the night. She doesn't have a chance against them. Precious seconds pass as my launch systems power up. Telepathic impulses bridge the void. ~Allison, I need a pickup, fast. Link up.~

* 04/14/97 *

Alarms jangle throughout the entire system, as an unauthorized jump point opens. At the very fringe of  Earth atmosphere Atlantis, with every weapon powered up, emerges from hyperspace. Unbelieving Earth Force officers shout orders, all available ships move to intercept the rebel Omega Class Destroyer. She hangs there, holding the jump point open, and far below a Thunderbolt Starfury streaks upward. But not toward the waiting Destroyer and escape. The Air Patrol flight has caught the diversionary flyer, fingers tightening on cannon triggers. Undetected, a jet black Thunderbolt arrows in behind them. Time, for everyone, is running out.

*04/21/97 *

There are too many fight, even with the element of surprise. I can escape, but I can't save her and escape, the Thunderbolt too sluggish at this altitude and speed. I will not leave her though, to die alone in my place. Risk deserves risk, sacrifice demands sacrifice, and honor stands with honor. I go in, cannon blazing. Two are downed before they can regroup. Realizing the deception, the remaining flyers turn to follow me. Out of range now, my escort lands and submerges, safe. I never learned her name, but I will not forget. I hope you survive what is to come. If I can survive a few more minutes, maybe we all have a chance. The fighters close in for their vengeance.

*04/28/97 *

They're closing in now, only PSI abilities let me dodge the worst of the incoming barrage. The Thunderbolt is accumulating damage, but slowly, painfully, it claws its way into the sky. We draw within range of Atlantis's guns, though my pursers do not seem to fear this. No EA ship could possibly target them at this range, and not hit me also. They close in for the kill, then ~NOW ALLISON! FIRE!~ We instantly become one mind in two places. Operating with her hands on Atlantis, I sweep the beam around my Thunderbolt, and though the englobing fighters. Pushing the engines into the red zone, I blast through the opening, up and away into the night.

* 05/05/97 *

I link up with Atlantis without further incident. Side by side, we're nearly to the jumpoint when alarms go off in my mind.  Another point opens nearly on top of us. A heavy cruiser comes through, cannon and laser firing. The beams come close, but do not strike either of us. Seconds later the jump point closes behind us and we are safe. At that range she should not have missed. I can only assume they deliberately let us go without a fight. Perhaps we have another ally against the tyranny that binds Earth. As the conflict turns more and more back toward our home planet, they will be needed. Individuals making choices, the right choices, forming the future by their actions. We've been away quite a while, I wonder what's been happening on Babylon 5.

*05/12/97 *

Atlantis has now resumed station at Babylon 5, her mission a success. From transmissions we've been able to intercept, it looks like the conspirators I met with escaped, secrecy intact. Spark by spark, person by person, the flame of freedom is beginning to smolder. The Voice of the Resistance will fan the flames higher. Soon it will engulf Clark and his tyrannical reign. How many more will die before then though? But for the present, Babylon 5 at least, is relatively quiet. Quiet enough for a stroll with Allison in the Zocalo, a good meal, possibly some dancing, and,,,,. Yes, let the universe turn without our attention for just one night. A little while to just be ourselves. Duty and honor will call soon enough tomorrow. The rumors from Minbar make me very uneasy, they have always appeared so unified until now. Delenn has her hands full.

*05/19/97 *

Things have been quiet lately, too quiet for my peace of mind. It seems like the calm before the storm. I try to convince myself that Clark is gradually succumbing to the pressure, that he will give in before something terrible happens. In the back of my mind though, I know this is fantasy. He isn't going down without a fight, and too many good people will go down with him. He may be desperate to try almost anything now, will we be able to stop him in time? Still no real news from Minbar either, another thing to keep us all on edge. I'm going to request rotation into escort duty, just to get "out there" where maybe we can do some good  in the event my darker thoughts come to pass. Something is going to happen soon, I can feel it.

*05/26/97 *

Something did happen, and the brutality of it has shocked us all. Two unarmed civilian transports sliced open, the crew and passengers, all gone. They were not even a threat, just people trying go escape with their live, all gone. Now whatever restraint, whatever residual loyality Sheridan held toward the Clark controlled Earth Alliance, all gone. We go on the offensive now, no holding back. They asked for it, and they will receive in full, innocent blood cries out for justice. The refugee ships we've been escorting have arrived safely. We're scheduled to link up with a smuggler fleet 4 jump gates from Babylon 5 and escort them in. If we push it though, we can link up at the 5th gate out. We have to have those supplies. I want to be there, just in case.

*06/02/97 *

Everything looks clear so far. The only ships in detection range are of the smuggler convoy. All but one accounted for, a very important one. I want to get us away from here quickly, but the missing ship is transporting much needed medical supplies. A cargo that might make the difference for thousands of war ravaged people. Proxima 3 has been liberated, but much remains to be done to restore that colony. Where is that ship? I can't wait much longer, the danger increases every second. I've deployed all Starfurries as a precaution. Allison asked to take a shuttle into hyperspace to increase her scan range, but that I refused. If we are ambushed she might not make it back, I don't intend us to be separated again. One more hour, I'll give them  that much, and then we're outta here.

*06/10/97 *

"Jump point forming Captain! Some big stuff coming through! Three destroyers, they've powered up weapons and are locking on!" I guess that answers the question of the missing transport. Helm, put us between them and the convoy, initiate jumpgate sequence to get them away. Target, but do not fire. Get an ID, and find out if they have been hostile before. "Non hostile Captain, until now that is, still no sign of that transport we're waiting on. Estimate ten minutes until convoy reaches the gate. The destroyers will be in firing range in five. Two are moving to engage, the third is flanking us to go after the convoy" We need to buy five minutes, at these odds that's probably impossible, much less survivable. Open a comm channel. Let's see if they'll listen to reason.

*06/17/97 *

No answer, I guess that decides things. The convoy takes priority, the third destroyer must be stopped. Our Starfuries engage, while we move in. The first two hostiles, unprepared for our superior speed, have fallen behind, not a factor for the moment. The Minbari upgraded tracker pays off, we open fire beyond our opponent's effective range, targeting only engines and offensive capability. A beam lances through the night, contacts armor, rages against it for milliseconds, and burns through. The second forward battery speaks also, seeking other vital areas to impale. Incoming fire flares our interceptors as we pull into range, then dies as explosions rock the hostile, her fusion powerplant hit. She will live, with few casualties, but fight no more today. At flank speed helm takes us through the jumpgate, just behind the last of the convoy. The destroyers will follow, close enough to track us all through to the next jump, but that's what I'm counting on. Allison nods her head, yes, we can do it.

*06/23/97 *

Telepathic range vastly extended by hyperspace, Allison tracks the oncoming destroyers and speaks in my mind: ~They'll catch up soon, the convoy can't outrun them. They're close enough to track us back into normal space also. I can't sense any other ships. If anything else is out there, it's beyond my range. Should we link up and scan again?~  I answer: ~Yes, we need help, and soon if we are to save the convoy.~ Without effort our minds meld into one consciousness. I/We sense the tapestry of hyperspace, the fleeing smuggler ships, the destroyers not far behind, and the empty void beyond. Like ripples in a pond spreading outward, powered by human determination, awareness expands and detects. Another ship, close enough to help. ~An alien, do you recognize the thought pattern?~ ~Yes, it'll be good to see him again.~ ~Will he help?~ ~I'm sure of it. We'll contact his telepaths, the timing is going to be tricky.~

*06/30/97 *

Defying the laws of physics, a jumpgate opens. Bursting into normal space, a motley collection of transports continue their headlong flight. Immediately the gate begins to recycle, but long moments pass and the convoy increases it's lead. Then the gate opens and 2 Omega Class Destroyers emerge in pursuit. ~We were right, they used the gate to conserve power for the battle. The delay opened a gap and we'll fill it. As soon as they're committed we move, NOW~ "Navigation! Bring us in, right in front of them!" This time a jump point opens, directly in the destroyers' path. They veer off to avoid collision, buying precious more seconds for the fleeing convoy. "Helm, keep us between them and the fleet. Allison, send coordinates. Bring our friend in right behind them."  Another jumpoint begins to form.

*07/07/97 *

The deadly anglefish shape of a Minbari War Cruiser wafted through the jump point. That held their attention long enough to reason with the destroyer captains. They had been fed the false story of captured EA ships being manned by Minbari. It was tough explaining the Minbari presence, but eventually I convinced them of the lies they had been told. Political Officers safely in the brig, the big ships opened jump points for a rendezvous with Sheridan's armada, already on its long march to Earth. Jothenn invited me over to his ship, this meeting so different from our last. Potential enemies now become friends, standing together as he had predicted long months ago. The self sacrifice of Neroon deeply affected the warrior caste and put all Minbar back on the road to healing. I hope a healing between our races is occurring also, as evidenced by our friendship. In a quiet ceremony, we dedicated this bond, in memory of Neroon.

*07/14/97 *

Reality intrudes upon this peaceful interlude. Atlantis flares my link, urgent priority. They've intercepted an INS News Feed announcing the capture of Sheridan. Betrayed by none other than our Mister Garibaldi. It appears he walked right into this one, but under the circumstances, I would have done the same. Sheridan came back from Z'ha'dum, I don't doubt he will come out of this situation also. It's imperative though that we retain a unified front, someone must take up his leadership role. To maintain our momentum until he can be rescued. I wouldn't want to get in *her* way when she takes command! We're headed back to Babylon 5 at flank speed. To get the full story, and make our plans.

*07/21/97 *