Title: Dangerous Liasons

by Morgana

Fandom Babylon 5

Pairing: Marcus/Naroon

Rating: NC-17

Summary: Delenn sends Marcus on a mission; Marcus is to seduce Neroon to acquire information the Rangers need. The plan backfires and Marcus returns to Babylon 5 carrying even more guilt. When Delenn needs a volunteer for a dangerous mission with no return, Marcus volunteers again...

Seated in Delenn's quarters, Marcus waited for Ranger One to join him. Although Delenn had requested his presence at short notice a few times before, this felt different. Her voice had carried an edgy tone and even Lennier, who had stood behind her when she had contacted him via the Babcom, had seemed nervous. Something was up. Delenn was worried and he was here to fix that situation. If only he knew what had happened to upset her!

The old habit of opening and closing his pike snuck up on him and he barely controlled the urge to uncover his pike. Stephen and several other crewmembers hated his little nervous tick, which he sometimes displayed so he tried not to give into the urge when other people were present. His hand closed over the pike, remembering all the times when it had saved his life.

As a Ranger, he depended on more unconventional weapons. Carrying a PPG gun would attract too much attention and the Minbari hated alien weaponry, hence the pike training. But I loved the training. I loved staying at the Ranger facility and fighting with the pike suits me just fine.

He had carried a PPG at one time, when he had worked for Earthforce Intelligence but he would rather forget about that episode. After the Earth-Minbari war had ended, he had quickly left Earthforce.

Lovingly, his fingers caressed the metal cylinder. He had met his master in Down Below when he had foolishly challenged Neroon to Denn'Sha. Looking at it in retrospect, he wondered what possessed him to defy the Minbari warrior. Neroon belonged to the elite, the best the Warrior Caste had to offer and he had challenged Neroon to the death.

I still don't understand why he let me live. He bragged that he had killed fifty thousand humans during the war, so why didn't he add one more? Why let me live? Yes, Neroon had visited him in the med lab after their fight and they had even shared a joke, but the Minbari had never really explained why he had let him live.

Even if he had a revelation, wouldn't he have been mad at me for putting him in that position? Denn'Sha is to the death! Being alive after Denn'Sha left him hanging in Limbo. Rationally, he knew he shouldn't be alive and yet he was. Seldom had he felt this confused.

It was a good thing that Delenn frequently needed his assistance; it stopped him from brooding all the time. I wonder why she needs my help now. As always, he felt honored to help her.

"Marcus, I regret to have kept you waiting." Delenn moved over to the couch and sat down.

Marcus cursed privately. Bloody hell, he hadn't heard her enter the room! Quickly, he got to his feet and bowed his head respectfully. "Entil'Zha." Straightening his shoulders, he found that Lennier was carrying a tray over to the coffee table, ready to serve the ceremonial tea. "You wanted to see me?"

Delenn nodded her head and smiled. "Yes, and I am glad you joined me this quickly." She accepted the tea Lennier handed her and waited for Marcus to sip his before continuing this conversation.

Marcus recognized the look she was giving him; it usually meant trouble. He knew better than to pressure her into telling what was going on, and continued to sip his tea. He gave Lennier a polite nod and noticed that the young Minbari disappeared into the kitchen, leaving him and Delenn alone.

Delenn moistened her lips, realizing she had to handle this delicately. She needed Marcus' cooperation, but wasn't going to give everything away. She would only tell Marcus what he needed to know. "What do you know about the collaboration between the Warrior Caste and the Rangers?"

Marcus arched an eyebrow, never expecting this topic. "It's a fragile alliance. Several clans are against the collaboration. Especially the Wind Swords are opposed to the alliance."

Delenn put her empty cup down and leaned back into the comfort of the couch, taking in Marcus' appearance. She hoped this plan wasn't going to backfire, but she was willing to take that risk. Marcus would gain so much if things worked out. "Do you know which caste greatly supports the collaboration?

Marcus considered the question. "I don't know for sure... The Star Riders perhaps? They are the most moderate-minded Minbari warriors."

Impressed, Delenn smiled. "You are right. The Star Riders support the alliance, but we need someone close to them. I need a liaison on Minbar who can handle their temper."

Marcus finally realized her intentions, but didn't reveal his new insight yet. "A very wise decision."

"I want you to go to Minbar and strengthen this alliance." Delenn tried to radiate calm and confidence, wondering how Marcus would react to the rest of the assignment. "I arranged for you to stay at Neroon's stronghold at Tuzanor."

"Neroon?" Marcus failed to hide his surprise, but it made sense. Neroon was a very important clansman within the Star Riders' clan. "Neroon's supporting us?"

Delenn inclined her head. "Not yet... not completely. You will have to win him over and make sure he will support the alliance. He still wavers and his support would immensely strengthen the alliance."

"Why me?" Marcus put down his cup and looked questioningly at Delenn. "Wouldn't a Minbari Ranger be much better suited for this job?" The prospect of meeting Neroon again made him uncomfortable. There was still unfinished business between them.

"You and Neroon have a history together, Marcus. He let you live after you challenged him to Denn'Sha... which was a very brave, but foolish move, Marcus. You knew you could not win!" She still hadn't forgiven him for putting himself in danger like that. Marcus could have chosen other ways to stop Neroon, but she decided against addressing this matter now.

"I still think you're making a mistake, Delenn." Marcus suddenly realized what he had said. It wasn't his place to contradict Ranger One! "Sorry, I didn't mean it like that, it's just..." Delenn raised her hand and he grew quiet.

Delenn's tone was distant and formal as she continued. "I want you to bond with Neroon."

"What?" Marcus' eyes grew big. Just what the hell was Delenn up to? He hadn't seen this one coming! "Bond with him?"

"Neroon prefers men," Delenn said, calmly. "Your training prepared you for a situation like this. You will bond with him. Make sure he trusts you, then he will entrust information to you, information, which we desperately need because there's a traitor among the Warrior Caste. This traitor is already responsible for several deaths of our men and Minbari warriors. Neroon is very influential and can find out the traitor's identity. This is important, Marcus."

Marcus understood her reasoning and was more than willing to help find that traitor, but... "Bond with him?" How did she expect him to pull that one off? Only then something she had said, hit him. "He prefers men?"

"Yes." Delenn allowed a sly grin to break through. "I think that he is attracted to you."

Marcus was glad he was sitting down; his knees would surely have given out on him at this point. "Attracted?"

"He let you live. Neroon does not do anything without a good reason. We have to use this to our advantage. Seduce him!"

"Se..." Marcus' voice trailed off. I can't believe she said that! She can't expect me to seduce Neroon! Yes, his training had included several ways of using seduction to gain necessary information, but he had never had to use them in order to acquire the data he had needed!

"Yes, use that attraction to your advantage. Once he feels connected to you, he will keep you close; keep you updated. A bond between lovers is strong, Marcus." The shock on Marcus' face almost amused her, but at the same time, she realized that the shock was very real. That shock also surprised her. She had seen the expression in Neroon's eyes when the warrior had said goodbye to Marcus in the med lab... and she had been certain she had seen a similar spark in Marcus' eyes.

"Marcus, you are the only Ranger who can get close to Neroon. He is very evasive and he even refuses to talk to my personal contact on Minbar. I need you to do this for me... for the Rangers!" Delenn dismissed any second doubts she was having; this was the right thing to do!

Marcus had managed to compose himself again. Inwardly, he felt shocked, but he got to his feet and bowed. "We live and die for the One." He would carry out Delenn's orders, no matter what the cost. His life didn't matter; it belonged to the Rangers.

Delenn rose from the couch and rested her hand on Marcus' arm. "We need Neroon's support. Reliable sources assured me that Shakiri has chosen Neroon as his successor. Once Neroon is caste leader, he can rewrite history and unite the Rangers and Warriors. We need him and I need you."

Marcus lowered his eyes. "I will go to Minbar and carry out your orders. I'll try to 'bond' with him and yes, you're right; my training did prepare me for this."

Delenn smiled smugly. Marcus wasn't looking at her and she almost purred from pleasure. "Go to Minbar, find Neroon, and do whatever is necessary to create this bond."

Marcus drew in a deep breath, took a step away from her, bowed and quickly left her quarters.

Lennier left the kitchen and joined Delenn. "He seems reluctant to carry out your plans." He had seen the shocked expression on Marcus' face when the Ranger had left. "Maybe there is another way to ensure Neroon chooses our side?"

Delenn shook her head. Her eyes sparkled with satisfaction. "I have seen their destiny that day in the med lab and I won't stand in its way. Marcus and Neroon's destiny are intertwined and sending him to Minbar is the best way to ensure that destiny comes true." Delenn took her seat on the couch again. "Lennier, I would like some more tea."

Lennier quickly filled her cup and watched her closely, wondering about her hidden agenda.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

"Marcus?" Stephen frowned, seeing the distant expression on his friend's face. He almost reconsidered joining Marcus for dinner. Maybe Marcus needed some privacy. "I'd better leave you alone."

"No!" Marcus almost jumped up from his seat. "Sit down, please. I was just... thinking."

"Thinking? Sounds dangerous." Stephen placed his tray on the table and poked at his food.

Marcus gave his friend an indignant glare. Normally he enjoyed their bantering, but he wasn't in a playful mood. He couldn't stop thinking about his new assignment. "Stephen? Can I ask you something personal?"

"Sure, but I can't promise I'll answer though..." Stephen dug into his food. Closely studying his friend, he saw the fine lines of worry on Marcus' brow.

Marcus looked about, making sure that no one was eavesdropping. He wanted this to stay private. "I was wondering... Have you ever had a male lover?"

Stephen choked on the food, grabbed the napkin and spit out the bite. "What?" Had Marcus really asked him about male lovers?

"Forget about it. It's not important." Marcus sipped his caff, wishing he had ordered something stronger.

"No, it's okay, but why do you want to know?" Stephen pushed the plate away from him, concentrating on Marcus. As far as he knew, Marcus hadn't had a lover since arriving at Babylon 5 and he had no idea what his friend's love life had been prior to coming to the space station. And wasn't he in love with Susan? Marcus had hinted at that repeatedly!

Marcus shrugged his shoulders, regretting every addressing this subject. "No special reason."

Stephen drew in a deep breath, making his decision. Marcus was trying to act casually, but he didn't buy it. Knowing Marcus, he probably had a good reason to ask this particular question. "Yeah, I had a male lover once... when I was studying at the Earthforce Academy."

Marcus raised an eyebrow, surprised that Stephen was volunteering this information. He remained quiet, not wanting to appear too curious.

Stephen actually smiled, seeing the barely hidden curiosity on Marcus' face. "His name was Peter and we were lovers for a short time. But we were assigned to different stations and we lost contact."

Marcus suddenly felt embarrassed. "I'm thinking about... you know... bloody hell, are you going to make me say it?"

"Are you attracted to a man?" Stephen was stunned. "What about Susan?"

Marcus didn't know how to answer that one. "I still have feelings for her, but come on, Stephen; we both know it's not going to happen. Different galaxies, remember?"

Yes, Stephen remembered the joke he had cracked when the Vindrizi had captured them. "I might have spoken too quickly, Marcus. I do believe she likes you!"

"And that's why she throws roses at me? I never gave her any roses!" Marcus sighed. "I had better give up on her. She's out of my league."

"What's going on, Marcus? I don't know you like this." Maybe this was more serious than he had originally thought! "Who is this guy that makes you doubt your love for Susan?"

"You don't know him," Marcus said, and it wasn't even a lie. Stephen had been on walkabout when he had challenged Neroon. "It doesn't matter anyway. I'm leaving the station shortly and I have no idea when and if I'll be back." 'Bonding' with Neroon, as Delenn had called it, might take him weeks, maybe even months, and he wasn't sure Delenn wanted him to return to the station after winning Neroon's trust. He would be more valuable as her liaison on Minbar. It was best to forget about Susan.

Stephen leaned in closer, trying to capture Marcus' evasive gaze. "Why don't you tell me what's going on?"

"I can't... Secret mission," Marcus said jokingly, trying to play everything down. "You know, Delenn loves secrecy and this is confidential."

But Stephen saw the tormented expression in Marcus' eyes and felt apprehensive about this 'secret mission'. "Can't Delenn find someone else to go on this mission?"

"No." Marcus appreciated what Stephen was trying to do, but... "We live for the One, we die for the One, Stephen. I have to accept this mission." This conversation was becoming uncomfortable and he got to his feet, eager to leave. "But thanks for listening to me, Stephen. You're a good friend." One of the few he had!

The doctor watched his friend until Marcus had disappeared from view. Something was very wrong!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Marcus had packed his duffle bag and was now heading to the departure area. As his mission was still secret, he had secured a Narn flyer to travel to Minbar. Delenn wanted this to stay low key and none of the other warrior clans was supposed to know about his arrival.

Pacing, he waited for the technician's signal to board the little ship. Looking over his shoulder, he realized Delenn had no plans to say goodbye. It was a little foolish to expect Ranger One to come here, but he had hoped someone would want to say their goodbyes. Guess people won't miss me after all. I always knew I was expendable, but... A goodbye would have been nice.

"Ranger Cole? The ship's ready for you. I modified the control panel as you requested."

"Thanks," Marcus said, addressing the technician and headed for the flyer. He dropped his duffle bag onto the floor and slid onto the pilot’s chair. "C&C, this is flight Alpha, Gamma, Omega, requesting permission for take off." There was no point in postponing his departure.

"Marcus?"

He recognized Susan's voice straight away, but forced himself to remain calm. "Ranger Cole requesting permission for departure."

Susan's tone cooled down considerably. Where he had first heard curiosity and concern, it was now matter of fact.

"Permission granted."

Marcus nodded his head and let his hands move over the control panel. The engine powered up and thrust the flyer toward the bay doors, which opened and spat out the plane. The distance between the Narn flyer and space station quickly increased. He allowed himself to cast one last look at Babylon 5, wondering if he would ever return to the only real home he had known since Arisia had been destroyed.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Marcus managed to control his nervousness as he entered Neroon's stronghold at Tuzanor. The trip to Minbar had taken him two days and had left him tired. He didn't feel up to seducing Neroon just yet. First, he needed a shower, a clean uniform and something decent to eat. The food bars he had packed had tasted horrible.

Straightening his shoulders, he walked toward Neroon, who stood waiting for him at the back of the hall. He blinked; the sun shone brightly and cast many different reflections through the roof, which was made of colored glass.

Several Minbari warriors mumbled disapprovingly at his arrival, but he ignored them and concentrated on Neroon. "Alit Neroon, I am honored that you are granting me your hospitality." Formally, he bowed his head and remained at the required, ceremonial distance; six feet separated him from Neroon. Taking in the warrior's appearance, he flashed back to Down Below where Neroon had come close to ending his life. He briefly shuddered at reliving the memory.

"Anla' Shok Cole," Neroon said, greeting his guest. "You are welcome at my home. I asked my servants to assign you appropriate quarters. We will talk later."

Marcus inclined his head, grateful that Neroon allowed him a breather. "Thank you for your hospitality, Alit Neroon." "Nasdak!" Neroon looked to his right and a young Minbari warrior stepped forward.

Marcus closely studied the young warrior and wasn't sure what those eyes were hiding. Delenn's warning returned to him; there was a traitor among the warriors!

Neroon formally introduced them. "Anla' Shok, this is Nasdak. He will show you to your quarters. Nasdak, this is Anla' Shok Cole."

Nasdak's expression turned dark and yet there was still a hint of amusement in his eyes. "Please follow me."

Marcus didn't know what to make of Nasdak yet, but he would have time later to find out. Right now, he needed to thank Neroon. "Thank you, Alit Neroon, and I'm already looking forward to our conversation later." Neroon inclined his head, signaling that this conversation had ended and Marcus bowed in return. As Nasdak walked toward the doorway, he followed the young Minbari.

Neroon's eyes stung his back and he could almost feel the other man's curiosity. What the hell did Delenn tell Neroon? I know what she told me, but... what does Neroon think I'm doing here? The only unknown factor was Delenn and he should have realized that before leaving Babylon 5.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Neroon signaled his clan men to leave him alone for now. Although they wanted to know what a human was doing in their midst, he didn't feel inclined to discuss this with them right now. Delenn's words had been very clear; Marcus Cole was here to help him uncover the identity of the traitor, whose treason had cost human and Minbari lives.

He had agreed to help her find the traitor, unwilling to put up with a traitor in his ranks himself, but he still refused to support her cause. He still wasn't convinced that she wasn't the religious zealot he thought her to be. Rationally, he knew Marcus had a hidden agenda, which probably was to win him over for Delenn's cause, but he didn't plan on giving in easily.

But why did she have to send Marcus Cole? Why not someone who is a stranger to me? Or does she know I have an interest in Marcus Cole? If she figured that out, she is more cunning than I thought her to be. By Valen, I have not felt interested in another man since Branmer...

Lost in thought, Neroon retreated to his private quarters to prepare himself mentally for the upcoming meeting with Marcus Cole.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

I feel better already! His quarters were more luxurious than he had imagined. The bedroom was large, but spartanly furnished. He would fix the tilted platform later, rig it with a wet towel like Sinclair used to. However, the thing that had astounded him was his bathroom. It was even bigger than his bedroom and contained a miniature waterfall and real, green plants, some of them in bloom. The ceiling consisted of blue glass that caught the sunbeams and considerably brightened the room, even giving the impression of being outside.

I wonder why Neroon gave me these quarters. They hardly suit my low standing as a mere Ranger. Thinking this over, he dried his skin and almost regretted leaving the bathroom. Nasdak had brought him a clean Ranger uniform before the young Minbari had excused himself, and as he closely examined the uniform, he realized that these weren't his clothes. Where had they found a second uniform that fit him perfectly? Had Neroon such good ties within the Rangers? Maybe Master Durhann helped him out...

Marcus released a deep sigh, uncovering a jar filled with body lotion. He rarely bothered with skin care; it wasn't something high on his list of priorities, but now he had to pay attention to these little things. It was a special mixture, made at the Ranger Training Facility and possessed one special ingredient that acted as an aphrodisiac. Briefly, he felt guilty for setting up Neroon, but he was a Ranger and bound to carry out Delenn's instructions. I just never thought she'd ever order me to seduce Neroon! Bloody hell!

Rubbing the lotion onto his skin, he tried to straighten out the mess inside his head. This time he was a definite disadvantage, never having had intercourse before. He had to act his part to make sure Neroon didn't realize he was dealing with a virgin. Well, virgin... I didn't have sex, but that didn't stop me from trying out other things. He had dated Hasina back on Arisia and occasionally they had spent the night together. I just have to use my limited knowledge to my advantage. I know what I want out of a blowjob and I remember what made one blowjob better than the next, but to actually give one is very different. He shuddered at the thought of going down on Neroon.

And why does it have to be a man? Why Neroon? Why couldn't Delenn pick a female warrior? Why Neroon? I really don't want to do this, but the oath binds me. I can't quit the Rangers because I have a problem with the nature of this mission. I always knew that I would have to give up my virginity at one point. It's amazing that I managed to keep it intact this long.

Briefly, he considered setting up a game plan in order to seduce Neroon, but decided against it. He always worked best under pressure and when improvising. Tonight he was joining Neroon for dinner and things would evolve from there. Bloody hell, what's that smell? It's the lotion... I didn't realize its fragrance was this strong! He hoped the smell would fade a little once his skin had absorbed the lotion.

After slipping into the Ranger uniform, he realized that it was still too early to join Neroon for dinner. He sat down, uncovered his pike and began extending and closing it. Stephen always gave him the look when he continued to open and close his pike. Probably thinks I'm sexually repressed, but I'm not...

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

The next hour passed slowly and eventually he got bored with his little game now that there was no one to drive mad. He spent the last ten minutes doing light pike exercises, trying to relieve his tension.

He heard footfalls in the corridor and waited for the knock on the door. "Yes?"

Nasdak opened the door and stepped inside. "Alit Neroon will see you now."

I wonder what's that badly concealed grin about. Marcus decided to keep an eye on the young Minbari. He couldn't rule out that Nasdak was the traitor. It appeared that Nasdak was one of Neroon's confidants and had access to privileged information. He followed Nasdak into the corridor and memorized the way to Neroon's quarters.

Nasdak halted and knocked on the door to Neroon's quarters. Then, he bowed and left Marcus standing in the corridor.

Marcus had a tight hold on his emotions, which he couldn't allow to act up now. He needed his wits about him and he tried to remember everything his teachers had told him when it came down to seduction. I wonder how Delenn knew that Neroon prefers men. Does that mean he had a male lover once? Why didn't she give me additional information? That would make things easier!

The door opened and Marcus straightened his shoulders before stepping inside. He had expected several guards to be present but strangely enough they were alone. Neroon rose from behind the dinner table and inclined his head in greeting. Marcus acted at once, falling back on conversational techniques, which his trainers had ingrained on him. "Alit Neroon, thank you for inviting me to dinner. It's an honor."

Pleased, Neroon bowed his head. "Minbari highly value their hospitality, even when their guests are humans."

Ah, that's the way you plan to play this? Marcus licked his lips and was ready to quip a sarcastic remark when he realized it wouldn't help him attain his goal. If he wanted to please Neroon, he had to adjust his behavior accordingly. "I'm already indebted to you."

Neroon gave him a smug look. I can hear you thinking, Neroon. Forget about it, I'm not giving myself away this easily! Marcus approached the dinner table and waited for Neroon to signal him to take a seat. Absentmindedly, he noticed the third plate, which was in honor of Valen.

"Indebted to me?" Neroon finally gestured Marcus to sit down.

Marcus took the seat opposite Neroon and watched him closely, hoping that the lotion was already piquing Neroon's interest. "Yes, you let me live, didn't you?" A puzzled expression flashed across Neroon's face and then disappeared again. You're good at hiding your emotions, but so am I! This is going to be a battle of wits! "I was wondering though, why did you stop short? Denn'Sha is to the death."

Although Neroon showed no visible reaction, Marcus had the impression that something eluded him, but what? Neroon sat rigidly, seemingly hesitant to move. The smug look was fading, but he couldn't label the expression that replaced it. Maybe the lotion was working?

Marcus allowed a sly smile to break through and leaned back, suddenly feeling more confident. "Why did you let me live? Didn't that get you into trouble with your clan?" Neroon's smile had definitely faded and Marcus tried not to feel too victorious. This was only the first verbal duel in a long fight.

Neroon composed himself and cleared his throat. "I lost some of my credibility and letting you live damaged my reputation, but you called on Valen's name in the moment of your impending death. No human would invoke Valen."

"In case you hadn't noticed, I am human," Marcus countered. Two servants entered and placed several food items on the table. Yes! No bloody Flarn! I hate Flarn!

"But with a Minbari soul," Neroon said, barely audible.

That observation surprised Marcus and made him curious. "A Minbari soul? I thought you didn't believe humans and Minbari had anything in common?" Yes, Neroon was definitely growing more uncomfortable. Now don't be too cocky, he chided himself. Neroon might be setting you up! Neroon reached for the food on his plate and started eating.He's stalling, why? I didn't expect it to be this easy! Something is off...

Neroon suddenly pushed away his plate, got to his feet and paced the room. Marcus' eyes followed the Minbari and never stopped analyzing Neroon's actions. What's troubling him?

"I fought in the Earth-Minbari war," Neroon revealed, turning around and locking eyes with his guest. "I was also present when they interrogated Sinclair."

Now this was new information! Even Delenn hadn't told him this! Marcus listened closely, eager to learn more.

"A telepath scanned his mind and examined Sinclair's memories. She even managed to push past the threshold of birth and back to his last life. She proclaimed Sinclair's soul Minbari and Minbari do not kill Minbari so we had to release him. I saw it with my own eyes, but..."

"You don't really believe it's true," Marcus finished for him, intrigued. "Did you ever talk to Sinclair? Personally?"

"Oh yes." Suddenly, the smug smile was back. "I dealt with him when he was in charge of Babylon 5 and later I met him again on Minbar when he led the Rangers."

Marcus was tempted to rise from his chair as well, but didn't. Neroon was pacing because the warrior felt ill at ease and Marcus wanted to radiate calm and confidence, so he remained seated and sipped some water. "So why do you think that my soul is Minbari when you can't believe Sinclair's was?"

Neroon remained quiet and crossed his arms in front of his chest. Staring out of the window, he looked like a statue and Marcus reluctantly got to his feet. He walked over to the warrior, and tried to make sense of the other man's silence. "Neroon?" Formally, he had to address him as Alit, but he ignored that detail. He had fought Neroon to the death for crying out loud! "Neroon?"

Neroon's eyes suddenly flashed alive, fastened on him and began to burn. Marcus forced himself to stand firm and not back down. "Was it something I said? I apologize if I said something inappropriate."

The fire in Neroon's eyes died as quickly as it had appeared. "No, your question is justified. I can understand that you want to know why I changed my mind."

"Then why did you let me live?" It hadn't been his intention to address Denn'Sha, but couldn't change the subject at this point. "The truth is that I do not know."

Marcus' eyes narrowed. What? And you expect me to believe that? Come on, Neroon, I'm smarter than that! You do things for a reason! "You don't know why you let me live? You broke my ribs, one by one. You seemed to enjoy that part and when I was down it would have been easy to strike one last time."

"I told you that I do not know why I spared your life! Do not question your fortune!" Neroon's tone carried a serious warning not to pressure him into discussing this any further.

Marcus realized he had to stop manipulating Neroon for now and returned to the dinner table. After sitting down he started eating and complimented the cook. "It would be a waste not to try it, Neroon. Your cook prepared an excellent meal."

Neroon reluctantly returned to the dinner table, sat down and picked up the utensils. "You are right. I will let him know that you enjoyed the dish."

Marcus closely observed Neroon and noticed the dilated pupils. The discovery mystified him. Neroon was acting out of character and he wanted to know why.

Several minutes later, they had finished dinner and sipped the tea Nasdak served. Marcus waited for Neroon to take the initiative, but the Minbari remained silent. I can't figure it out. A host is obliged to entertain his guest and remaining quiet could be considered an insult, but I know he's not trying to insult me. He's pre-occupied. Maybe it was time to end their first meeting. "Alit Neroon, please compliment the cook. I'd better retreat to my quarters now. Please feel free to send for me if you wish to discuss the alliance between the Rangers and your caste; that's why I'm here."

Marcus' words pulled Neroon from his musings and he quickly got to his feet as well. "I should apologize for neglecting my duties as a host, but I have a lot on my mind."

Marcus smiled and nodded once. You're forgiven. I don't know what's going on, but I hope it won't keep me from fulfilling my mission. It's time to send out one more signal. He walked towards Neroon, bowed his head and leaned in closer than was absolutely necessary. "I really enjoyed having dinner with you, Neroon. I hope you'll send for me tomorrow. Maybe we could spar. During our fight you outsmarted me several times and I'd be honored if you'd teach me those moves."

Neroon's dilated pupils darkened. "Yes, we will spar in the morning. Nasdak will escort you to the dojo. Do not forget to bring your Den'Bok."

Marcus licked his lips provocatively before turning around to leave the room. Bloody hell, maybe Delenn's right. Maybe Neroon is interested in me! That would make things a lot easier! Cocky, he strutted out of the room and back to his quarters.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Confused, Neroon released the breath he had been holding. Marcus' scent surrounded him and he had spent most of the dinner rock hard. Embarrassed, he had sought refuge in pacing, and hiding his aroused state from the Ranger, but then Marcus had joined him and the musky scent had nearly overwhelmed him. Iron discipline had enabled him to continue the conversation, but his erection had throbbed painfully, almost demanding to find release inside the Ranger's body.

He sank down onto his chair and regulated his breathing. Why is this happening now? And why am I attracted to a human? I respect Marcus Cole because he stood his ground during Denn'Sha, but I cannot be attracted to him! But my body betrays me! I can only hope that he did not notice my arousal.

He was tempted to ensure Marcus of his support just to make sure the Ranger left his home, but did he want Marcus to leave? Just thinking of the Ranger and breathing in his scent made him erect again. And I agreed to spar with him tomorrow! At a loss, Neroon left the dining room and retreated to his private quarters. He dismissed his aides and lay down amidst a pile of soft pillows. Freeing himself from the confines of his trousers, he lazily pumped his cock. Marcus' scent still teased his nostrils and he stroked hard, raised his hips, fucking his hand. He only lasted seconds, came hard and stared at the spilled seed that now dripped from his hand. Valen, what is he doing to me?

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Marcus had slept surprisingly well and was now munching on the breakfast Nasdak had brought him. The young warrior had also told him that Neroon used to work out before noon and would call for him then. Apparently, Neroon wasn't interested in discussing supporting the alliance at this point.

It gave Marcus some time to think about his actions. Playing with Neroon like this was dishonorable, and should the Minbari ever find out that he was being manipulated, the fall out wouldn't be nice. So he had to hide the true nature of his mission.

He had to admit that Neroon was far more enjoyable company than he had thought. They had battled wits like equals, but he felt that the small victory had been his. What he really wanted to know was what thoughts had occupied Neroon during dinner. Although he didn't know Neroon that well, he had the suspicion that the Minbari had acted out of character last night.

He pushed the breakfast tray away from him and headed for the bathroom, where he quickly stripped. Undoubtedly, a clean uniform would wait for him on his bed upon his return. Stepping beneath the calming waterfall, his thoughts returned to Neroon.

He hadn't been terrified when stepping up to the warrior as he had thought he would. His selective memory featured a much stronger looking and taller Neroon in Down Below beating the shit out of him. He had been surprised when Neroon had seemed surprisingly normal and shorter than he remembered.

Had the choice of a lover been up to him, he would never have picked Neroon, but as a Ranger he couldn't be picky and he had to admit that Neroon didn't repulse him. He could never forget what had happened in Down Below and the tension never left his body when they were face to face, but he was willing to look at this in a new way.

Delenn had told him to seduce Neroon, become his lover and if necessary he was to stay on Minbar as long as she deemed necessary. That meant that he could be here for years as Neroon's lover. He had to make peace with that and he should approach Neroon as he would a lovely girl he was interested in dating.

Working up a lather, his hand involuntarily drifted to his groan. After only a few deft strokes, he was erect and he leaned against the wall, forcing himself to imagine what being together with Neroon would be like. He would probably end up on the bottom; Neroon struck him as the dominant type and he imagined feeling Neroon's fingers around his cock, pumping it.

Bloody hell! What...? That picture made him come hard. Surprised, he stared at his come, clinging to his hand.I never came that fast... and hard. And I was thinking about Neroon, not Susan. Was his body trying to tell him something? Interesting.

He cleaned himself up, dried his skin and returned to his bedroom. Yes, on the bed was a clean uniform. Marcus opened his duffle bag and rubbed another layer of lotion onto his skin. This time he barely noticed the smell. He was slightly disappointed that the lotion had had no visible effect on Neroon, maybe it would help if he added some more to be on the safe side? The ingredients were designed to work on Minbari and he hoped his trainers had gotten things right. He needed to draw Neroon's attention if this was going to work!

He slipped into his uniform and sat down on the rigged platform. Luckily Nasdak hadn't commented on it, or removed the towel that blocked the mechanism. Bored, he uncovered his pike and started a light work out, not wanting to tire himself out before the real sparring match would start.

Thirty minutes later, Nasdak knocked on the door, letting him know that Neroon was in the dojo and awaiting his arrival. Marcus removed his long cloak, which would only hamper him in the upcoming match and followed Nasdak to the dojo. He hoped that Neroon and he would be alone in there, otherwise he had to change his plans. In order for this 'seduction' to work, he needed to be alone with Neroon.

Nasdak turned into a corridor, leaving him alone and Marcus entered the dojo. Yes, Neroon was alone. His guards were nowhere in sight! "Neroon." He figured he would get away with addressing the warrior like that. Neroon didn't strike him as someone overly fond of titles.

"Marcus." Neroon's voice sounded raw and his dark eyes simmered.

Marcus took in his surroundings, ignoring Neroon for the moment. However, he did wonder about the intense expression in the Minbari's eyes. The dojo resembled the training room at the Ranger Training Facility. Several Minbari weapons were ready to use, hanging at the wall. Thin, but very effective mats covered the floor. They would break even the hardest fall. "Impressive."

"Thank you," Neroon said politely and opened his pike. "You wanted to learn some of my patented moves?"

And you're willing to teach me? I wouldn't relinquish such secrets. It might put you at a disadvantage should we ever meet in battle again. "I'd be honored."

"And in turn you will teach me your evasive maneuvers. You have an excellent defense."

And a compliment? I'm not that charming! Carefully, he took in Neroon's appearance. He was dressed in the traditional black warrior outfit, but something was off. He just couldn't label it. Extending his pike, he advanced on Neroon. "You do know that you don't have to prove you're the stronger one? I don't want to end up in your medical facility with broken ribs." Marcus hoped it would confirm Neroon's sense of superiority, then the warrior would be inclined to let down his guard. He wanted Neroon relaxed and comfortable when he made his move.

"No broken ribs," Neroon promised, stalking closer. "Watch me and mirror my moves."

Marcus nodded his head, mirrored Neroon's stanch and watched the warrior closely. A few minutes later, he realized why Neroon had beaten him in Down Below. Neroon was much more experienced in pike fighting than he was and the warrior had had decades to invent his own attacks.

Panting slightly, he executed the series of movements, which Neroon had shown him and realized their effectiveness. An opponent barely stood a chance against this particular attack. "Did you come up with this yourself?"

"Yes," Neroon confirmed, fluidly executing another attack, which left Marcus in awe.

"I was a fool to challenge you," Marcus admitted, opting for honesty

"Yes, you were." Neroon grinned smugly. "Now show me your defensive moves."

Marcus frowned. He didn't really expect to ever fight Neroon to the death again and he even didn't mind revealing his tactics, but... "You've got to be kidding me, Neroon. There's no way I can teach you, an experienced and accomplished warrior, something new!"

Neroon's smug grin grew amused, but the dark fire in his eyes remained. "Show me."

Marcus gave in and demonstrated his defense moves. Neroon quickly picked up on the new technique and executed it perfectly. Marcus shook his head. "Now I've got no defenses left when we're going to spar."

"I am sure you will invent new techniques."

Huh? Did he just compliment me again? Did he? Neroon seemed much more comfortable compared to last night and this time it was Marcus who felt ill at ease. Did Neroon know what he was up to? No, that was impossible.

"Let us spar, Marcus. I want to test your endurance and agility. Back in Down Below, you fought for your life. Know that this is merely a sparring match."

Marcus took a step back and assumed position. "That's good to hear." I can't believe I'm enjoying myself! Neroon made the first move and Marcus blocked the attack. It's time to make my next move... He didn't have an elaborate plan to seduce Neroon, but had thought up certain situations he could maneuver the warrior in.

The sparring match continued for the next few minutes, and then Marcus judged the time was right to lose his footing and... "Bloody hell!" Making sure that he didn't accidentally hit Neroon with his pike, he started to fall backward. He counted on Neroon to catch him and not let him land hard on his ass.

Neroon moved quickly, grabbed hold of his waist, but the weight toppled him over. Marcus moved and made sure that Neroon ended up on top of him, between his legs. He counted on the lotion to do its work as his thigh rubbed against Neroon's groin area. Neroon's eyes went from big to narrow.

Got you, mate! Marcus licked his lips, rubbed against Neroon's groin again and... Bugger, he's hard! That revelation briefly took him aback. The realization that Neroon was aroused was unexpected. He squirmed beneath Neroon, felt the other man's cock press against his abdomen and knew he had achieved his goal. Neroon was attracted to him, lusted after him. Mission accomplished. The rest will be child's play!

Neroon abruptly released him, stumbled to his feet and turned away from him, probably in an effort to hide his aroused state. Bloody shame... If he had made a move, I'd be closer to successfully accomplish this mission! Marcus got to his feet as well, straightened out his clothes and... Bloody hell, you can't be serious! His groin stirred as well and he was growing hard! "Uhm, Neroon, I'm sorry about that. I'm usually not that clumsy. Must have lost my footing." He didn't add that he had lost his footing on purpose.

"Those things happen." Neroon drew in a deep breath and turned around to face Marcus again. "I have matters to attend to. I will send for you once I have the time discuss the alliance."

"That means our sparring match is over?" Marcus succeeded in placing just the right amount of disappointment in his voice. "I really learned a lot today." And I learned you're reacting to my 'advances'. Maybe I can venture a kiss in a little while. But how would Neroon react to that? He had to make sure Neroon reacted positively to that kiss. Maybe more lotion would do the trick.

Neroon said something in Vik and two of his guards appeared. "I need to leave now. Feel free to explore my home; you are not confined to your quarters."

"Thank you," Marcus said, smiling. As he watched Neroon leave the dojo with his guards, his smile turned into a grin.Maybe this mission isn't as bad as I thought it would be. I like being in the driver's seat for a change and I do like Neroon... to some extent. I wouldn't pick him as a lover, but he's acceptable... It's weird though... I didn't even know I was attracted to men! This is the first time I've been interested. Stephen would love to hear about this. It's a good thing he's on Babylon 5 and not here!

So far, everything was going according to plan. Humming an old Earth song, he left the dojo to explore Neroon's stronghold.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Neroon reached his office and immediately dismissed his guards. He had used them as a shield, putting them between him and Marcus. He retreated to the little bathroom next to the office and shed his clothes. After stepping beneath icy, cold water beams, he stared at his angry erection. "What is he doing to me?"

He was a male, had grown aroused thousands of times before, had jacked off to relieve the tension, but this was different. Marcus' scent had taken up residence in his clothes, in his skin and he moaned low in his throat, recalling being between those long and agile legs. Marcus hadn't even flinched away, but the Ranger must have felt his erection!

And then he had licked his lips, those luscious, lustful lips! Groaning, he wrapped his fingers around his cock and stroked hard, needing release now! "Valen, I need him... Need to feel him beneath me! Marcus!" Climaxing, he imagined thrusting into Marcus' warm and inviting body.

"Valen, I want him!" Confused, he stared at the water, which washed away his come. "I want him... but does he want me as well? Marcus has been acting oddly in my presence and today, I could have sworn that was premeditated. Did he drag me down on purpose? I cannot stop smelling his scent!"

He stepped away from the shower, wrapped a towel around his waist and examined the signals Marcus was giving him; the licking of those delicious lips, being closer than necessary and almost dragging him on top of him this morning. Was the attraction mutual? Could he take the risk and dare find out? But a human lover? A human mate? His caste would never accept that. After donning a clean uniform, he sat down behind his desk. "I cannot let this pass by. I need to know if he is attracted to me as well and by Valen, I will find out!"

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Marcus explored Neroon's home for some hours and then returned to his quarters. Neroon hadn't contacted him again and he felt undecided. Had he gone too far and too fast during the sparring match? Had he been too obvious? He had only arrived twenty-four hours ago and he had time to get through to Neroon. There was no reason to rush this.

Looking out of the window, he recognized Nasdak, who was talking to several of Neroon's personal guards. Maybe it was time to concentrate on finding the traitor and to give Neroon time to think everything over. But how was he going to find this traitor? This Minbari was against the alliance and might try to stop him from attaining his goal, if he presented himself as an easy target.

The traitor would never attack Neroon or one of his men, but he was only a human and the Minbari wouldn't feel guilty for ending his life. Yes, he liked this idea. He would present himself as an easy target and see what happened. If the traitor acted, he would be surprised at how hard it was to kill Marcus Cole.

Clad in his uniform, sans the long cloak, he left his quarters again. This time he headed for the gardens, hoping the traitor was watching and waiting.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

"Alit?" Nasdak respectfully bowed his head in greeting. "The Ranger has left the building and is heading for the gardens." He didn't know why his Alit wanted Marcus Cole guarded, but he was used to carrying out puzzling orders. "One of our men follows him closely and will stay hidden at all times, except in case of an attack of course."

Neroon nodded his head, but didn't look up from his papers. "Keep me informed, Nasdak. Humans mean trouble and this one actually seeks it out."

"As you wish." Nasdak excused himself, leaving Neroon alone.

Neroon finally deserted his papers and walked over to the window. In the distance, he made out Marcus' fading form. The Ranger was indeed headed for the gardens. "Making yourself an easy target, are you?" He didn't worry about Marcus' ability to defend himself against a possible attacker. What worried him was the traitor's identity. As long as they didn't know who was leaking information to their enemies, he couldn't trust anyone.

"Marcus, what do I do with you?" Neroon returned to his desk and sat down, recalling this morning's events. Feeling Marcus beneath him had felt incredibly right and he yearned to be between the Ranger's legs again.

His passion for Marcus had grown since the Ranger had arrived. When he had told Marcus that he didn't know why he had let him live, it had been a lie. When you challenged me to Denn'Sha I admired your courage. When you fought me, I admired the fire in you. When you called upon Valen while staring into the butt end of my Den'Bok, I admired the gleam in your green eyes. You upended my world, Marcus... And I crave having you close.

But the feeling of needing Marcus close wasn't as strong as it had been before. Last night during dinner and this morning during the sparring match, he had tightly controlled his desire. Marcus' scent and closeness had been intoxicating.

"Do I court you? Do I ignore you? Sent you back to Babylon 5? If I give Delenn my support you will stay to be her liaison, if I deny her my support you will stay to change my mind..." It was an impossible dilemma.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Marcus enjoyed his walk in the gardens, but had immediately noticed the guard that followed him everywhere he went. It wasn't the traitor; his instincts told him that his host had ordered his guards to keep a close eye on him. Bugger, this way the traitor won't show himself! But he couldn't shake the guard either. If he did the guard would get into trouble with Neroon for letting a Ranger outsmart him!

After thirty uneventful minutes, he returned to his quarters, hoping to find Nasdak with a message that Neroon wanted to see him, but... nothing. Should I take the initiative myself?

Determined, he headed for Neroon's office, having passed it by earlier. Two guards stood in front of the door and eyed him suspiciously. Marcus cleared his throat and tried his best, pronouncing the language of the warrior caste, asking the two guards permission to talk to Neroon. Both guards tried to hide their surprise, but Marcus registered it nonetheless. Hah! You didn't I think I spoke your language! I come well prepared, you know!

One of the guards stepped into Neroon's office and he tried to peek inside, but the door closed too quickly to catch a glimpse of Neroon. Waiting impatiently, he tapped his foot on the floor, which obviously irritated the other guard. Marcus shot him a stunning smile.

"Alit Neroon will see you," the other guard announced as he stepped into the corridor again, leaving the door open.

'Thanks, chap!" Marcus strolled inside, trying to radiate confidence. Neroon rose from behind his desk and their gazes locked. The brown eyes still simmered and Marcus suddenly realized that he was playing with fire. If Neroon really was interested in him, the Minbari would probably take the initiative and he would find himself in dire straits. His bluff would be called the moment Neroon wanted to become intimate. Suddenly, he felt a lot less at ease.

"You wanted to talk with me?" Neroon left his desk and advanced on his guest.

"Actually, I was wondering when we would discuss the alliance and you whether or not supporting them." Discretely, his eyes drifted lower for only a second and... Yes, he immediately noticed the bulge in Neroon's trousers. Maybe I applied too much lotion after all.

"You wish to discuss the alliance?" Neroon came to a halt in front of Marcus, taking in his appearance. The musky scent was back, driving him wild.

"Yes, what can I do to ensure your support? There must be something I can do to change your mind. Maybe you want to talk to Delenn? Or Master Durhann? Even he is in favor of the alliance. Sech Turval also supports us. They were your teachers as well. Don't you trust their judgment?"

Neroon glared at him. "That is not why you are here. You do not want to discuss the alliance."

Marcus kept his calm, and returned the glare. Had Neroon figured everything out or...?

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Neroon opted for action and pushed Marcus against the wall, clutching the Ranger's head between his hands. Marcus' pupils dilated and the Ranger didn't try to move away. Encouraged, Neroon leaned in closer and possessively claimed Marcus' lips, carefully monitoring the other man's response. If Marcus pushed him away, he would stop at once, but the Ranger parted his teeth, allowing him entry. Neroon accepted the invitation and licked the inside of Marcus' lips before entering the sweet moist cavern.

He challenged Marcus' tongue to a duel and the Ranger accepted, chasing his. Pushing Marcus harder against the wall, his hands slid lower, revealing white skin beneath the turtleneck. Deserting Marcus' lips, his teeth gently scraped the delicious neck and he suckled the skin hard, leaving a definite mark.

Pressing his body closer to Marcus', one hand stole down to the Ranger's groin, searching and finding the hardness pushing against the fabric of the uniform. Satisfied that Marcus was really aroused and attracted to him, he abruptly released the other man. Marcus was panting softly and big, green eyes fastened on him. It seems I took him by surprise after all.

"What?" Marcus' voice trembled and his legs almost gave out on him. Panting, he tried to compose himself. "Why did you that?"

"You wanted me to kiss you." Neroon returned to his desk and sat down. Leaning into the comfort of his chair, he monitored Marcus closely. The Ranger was blushing and panting, trying to act casual, but unable to pull it off. "Admit it, you came here because you are attracted to me."

Marcus' eyes almost bulged from their sockets and he seemed at a loss for words.

"Admit it and we can move on to the next step." Neroon was already considering the consequences that this kiss brought with it. He could do two things; accept Marcus as his official mate or take him as a lover and keep this attraction a secret.

"I...I..." Marcus seemed unable to form a decent sentence. Involuntarily his right hand went to his lips to touch them. "You kissed me!"

"You wanted to be kissed, Marcus. Admit it." Neroon suddenly wondered about Delenn's motives to send Marcus here. Did she know he had wanted the Ranger since Denn'Sha? If that was the case, was Delenn playing with him? Offering him Marcus in return for his support? He needed to think about that; he wouldn't put such scheming past Delenn. She was capable of using his feelings against him. I need to be sure Marcus is attracted to me because of me and that he does not have ulterior motives. How do I do that?

"This does not mean I am supporting your cause," he said, testing the waters.

"My cause? You bloody well kissed me!"

Interesting, the alliance no longer seems to matter to him. Neroon felt slightly reassured. "Are you attracted to me? I want the truth."

Marcus seemed to wage an inner battle, but eventually nodded his head. "Yes, I am."

"When did it start?" Neroon considered the man in front of him and deemed him a worthy mate... in time. Marcus needed to learn the ways of the Star Riders first, among other things.

Marcus appeared cornered. "When I arrived here."

Neroon felt puzzled. "Not after Denn'Sha?"

"No..." Marcus finally straightened out his clothes, touched the passion mark Neroon had left behind on his throat, and covered it with the turtleneck. "Seeing you made me realize I... I don't know how to explain this. I never saw it coming and I did come here to discuss the alliance not to... to get pushed against the wall and..." His breath hitched and he turned away from Neroon.

Seeing Marcus' emotional distress, Neroon joined him. "I apologize if my questions seem inappropriate, but I have to know this attraction is real." Marcus had grown hard, hadn't he?

"I don't know what I feel, Neroon," Marcus admitted in the end.

Neroon rested a hand at the small of Marcus' back. "Do you want to find out what you feel? What this means?" Marcus shivered and jerked around. Dark, cunning eyes were veiled with uncertainty.

"What are you saying, Neroon?"

"Ever since you came here I have been thinking about you. My feelings for you are very real. Being so close to you makes me hard, makes me want you."

"Want me?" Marcus moistened his lips.

Seeing that tongue wet bruised lips, made Neroon moan. "You drive me mad with passion. I never felt this way before and I have had lovers before... male and female, but you... you are different. Yes, I want you, I crave you..." Neroon leaned in again, this time his hand lifted the dark locks and his tongue left a wet trail across Marcus' skin as he suckled the Ranger's throat and ear lobe. Marcus shook and he quickly wrapped his arms around him. "What do you want?" he whispered between playful nips.

"I need some time, Neroon..." Marcus' eyes pleadingly locked with Neroon's.

"You have until sunset." Neroon released Marcus and took a step away from him. "You will find me in my quarters at sunset. If you really want this, want me, you will come to my quarters willingly."

"Sunset? But sunset is only a few hours away."

Neroon walked over to his desk and sat down. "You may leave me now." From the corner of his eye, he watched Marcus flee the room. Now that Marcus was gone, he released a strangled moan and leaned back. Valen, what was he doing? It wasn't like him to be this aggressive, this possessive, but Marcus had awakened these feelings in him. They had even pushed away his nervousness. When he had first kissed Marcus he had feared rejection, but then the Ranger had kissed him back, growing hard beneath his touch.

Mate or lover? Or lover first and then mate? It was quite a complex decision, which he had to make. If he took Marcus as his lover, he would keep the relationship a secret and he was still an official bachelor. Other Minbari houses constantly inquired if he wasn't interested in marriage. Taking Marcus as his lover was the smart thing to do, leaving all options open.

Accepting Marcus as his mate would only create immense problems. His clan would condemn his choice, Shakiri would no longer consider him a possible successor and he would officially ally himself with a human.

But he was getting ahead of things. He wasn't even sure Marcus would come to his quarters and if he did, what would happen tonight? An insane urge to make Marcus his overwhelmed him every time the Ranger was close. If Marcus came to his quarters, he would make love to him. And what if he does not come willingly? Then I will consider this matter over and done with. No lover, no mate.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Marcus quickly closed the door behind him. That had been more than he had bargained for! Neroon pushing him against the wall had startled him. Then Neroon's lips had pressed on his and a tongue had sought a way into his mouth. But his plan had worked. He just wasn't sure to be pleased or terrified.

Neroon was more than willing to become intimate with him. Delenn had achieved her goal, but that also meant he had to go to Neroon willingly. He could vividly imagine what would happen if he accepted Neroon's invitation.

Sitting cross-legged on the floor, he sorted out his thoughts. Neroon bought my act. I put out all the right signals and he's attracted to me as well, wants me, as he puts it. I achieved my goal, so why am I so bloody nervous? Because I have never had sex before... I haven't even been intimate with a man before! What does he expect me to do?

Marcus bit his bottom lip, trying to regain his inner peace. It was time for some mental warfare. Marcus Cole, you want this. You want Neroon as your lover... as long as Delenn wants you at Neroon's side, that's where you'll be. You'll take the initiative, if he lets you, and you will make sure he trusts you! Delenn entrusted you with this mission and you will carry it out successfully.

Sighing, he massaged his temples. Too fast, this was going too fast. Neroon wasn't supposed to turn possessive all of a sudden! I know what having sex with a man entails. I read the books, watched the vids, and my trainers did talk to me about all the erogenous zones involved. I can do this! I need to fool myself into feeling horny! I'm getting laid for the first time tonight... I want this...

Marcus got to his feet and headed for the bathroom. He should freshen up before seeking out Neroon later tonight.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Neroon had dimmed the lights in his quarters, had dismissed his guards and made himself comfortable amidst the pile of soft pillows. The sun was about to set and he hoped Marcus would knock on his door any moment now. After taking a shower, he hadn't bothered to get dressed and had merely draped a robe over his shoulders.

Mentally, he reviewed all the lovers he'd had. His male lovers had told him that he was an excellent lover and had never complained about his skills, but making love to a human was probably different. He wished he had researched those differences, but he hadn't had the time.

Neroon sipped wine, which Nasdak had served him before the young Minbari had retreated for the night. Now he had to wait.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

He had almost given up when a soft knock sounded on his door. Neroon grinned, pushed deeper into the comfort of his pillows and placed his glass aside. "Enter." His eyes were glued to the door and when Marcus stepped inside, he sighed pleased. "You have made your decision?"

"Yes." Marcus swallowed hard, hearing Neroon purr. "How do you want to do this?"

"Come to me, my love." Neroon patted the pillows beside him and watched Marcus closely. The Ranger was blushing, his hands had turned into fists and the usual elegance with which he moved was gone. He is tense, maybe even nervous. "Sit down."

Marcus obeyed and masked his nervousness. "Talk to me. What do you want me to do?"

Neroon inclined his head, surprised at Marcus' words. "Kiss me, touch me... what all lovers do. Pleasure me." Marcus lay down beside him and Neroon took charge, sensing Marcus' nervousness. "Too many clothes." He removed the tunic and turtleneck and took in the Ranger's smooth chest. "Exquisite..." The lust was back now that Marcus was this close and he straddled the Ranger's hips, leaning forward and licking the welcoming skin. First, he teased one nipple into hardness, and then the other.

Marcus had closed his eyes and his fingers clawed the pillows. Soft, pleased moans escaped his throat.

"You are truly exquisite, Marcus. Your body pleases me... but I want you to open your eyes..."

Marcus' eyes opened and the green had turned to the darkest blue he had ever seen. "Do you desire me as much as I desire you?" Neroon shrugged off his robe and rested his chest against Marcus', rubbing his skin against his new lover's.

He squeezed Marcus' erection through his trousers and the cat-like eyes grew big. "Ah, you are already hard for me..." He unzipped Marcus and pulled down the trousers and underwear. Nestled in black curls, Marcus' cock was growing hard. "Beautiful..."

Suddenly, Marcus raised his hands and clasped them behind Neroon’s neck, pulling him down. Neroon gave in willingly, seeking out bruised lips and exploring the soft and willing mouth. Pushing one leg between Marcus', he parted the Ranger's legs and settled between them. "I want to make you mine, Marcus. I want to be inside you. Is that what you want as well?" Marcus squirmed beneath him. "Tell me... I need to hear it..."

"Yes... take me."

Neroon dove toward Marcus' lips and silenced him now that he had the Ranger's permission. "You will be mine, do you understand? There cannot be any other lovers. You will belong to me...Yes?"

"Yes... I understand."

Neroon nodded his head. My lover first, my mate later... "I want to last long enough to please you...In order to do that I have to come first... I want your lips around me..." Grabbing Marcus' waist, he rolled the Ranger on top of him. "Lick me... Use your tongue to make me come and then I will pleasure you..."

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

So far, Marcus had managed to control his nervousness, but now Neroon was asking him to go down on him! He had never given a blowjob before! Looking at the lazy expression on Neroon's face, he knew the warrior expected him to make him come. We live and die for the One... What's giving a blowjob compared to dying for the One? I almost died once or twice... I can do this! Just slide down and get it over with! Delenn counts on you to gain Neroon's support and trust.

Sliding down Neroon's body, he straddled the other man's legs and leaned forward. Neroon's eager erection was already leaking pre-ejaculate and bounced demandingly. He wrapped his fingers around Neroon's erection and stroked slowly. Maybe he could get away with a hand job.

"No, your lips... Your tongue... Taste me..."

Neroon grabbed a handful of his hair and pulled him down. He no longer had a choice and licked the erect shaft, trying hard not to shudder at the sensation. Suddenly, Neroon's hand found his erection and the Minbari stroked him roughly. Neroon's other hand still rested on his head and pushed him deeper on to the other man's erection. He almost gagged, but remembered to relax his throat when Neroon thrust deeper.

"Oh yes, my lover... Taste me, let me come inside your mouth... Accept this gift, my come..."

Marcus barely registered Neroon's rambling. He was busy trying not to choke, as Neroon's thrusts grew harder. Neroon pushed his head down again, then let him come up for breathe... Neroon was in charge, setting the rhythm and getting off on it. Marcus felt nauseous when a warm, salty liquid slid down his throat.

"Yes! Yes!" Neroon threw back his head and thrust one more time.

Marcus forced himself to swallow. I want this, I have to do this! This isn't Neroon's fault! I came here willingly and he thinks I want to have sex with him. This is my doing.

"And now lick me clean, my lover..."

And he had thought this ordeal had been over with! Obediently, he licked the head of Neroon's cock clean.

"You did well, Marcus... Come here... Now it's my turn to pleasure you..."

Before he knew what was happening, Neroon had rolled him onto his back and spread his legs. "What are you..." Neroon's lips silenced him and the warrior's tongue greedily slipped inside.

"You taste wonderful..."

Neroon knelt between his legs and the Minbari's hands were all over his body, touching and teasing him. He locked eyes with Neroon, refusing to feel ashamed for going down on the Minbari. Apparently, we live, die and get fucked for the One!

Neroon found his lax penis and seemed disappointed. Come on, I just went down on you and you expect me to be hard? I was trying not to throw up!

"Close your eyes..."

"Why?" Marcus felt vulnerable. Neroon hovered above him, in control and growing hard again. No, he can't be hard again! Not that quickly! Suddenly, he caught sight of the blindfold that had appeared out of nowhere. Swallowing hard, he allowed Neroon to blindfold him. He had started this and he had to see this through. Once they'd had sex, Neroon would grow to trust him!

"Just feel... Do not speak, do not listen... Let your body feel instead."

He wasn't sure he liked the blindfold, but it never occurred to him to tell Neroon to remove it. Warm and cunning fingers teased his balls, rolled them in the palm and teased his cock into hardness again. "Ah...." Something wet and warm touched his cock and his toes curled at the sensation. Neroon licked up the length of his cock, teasing the slit. Then the Minbari took first one, then the other heavy ball into his mouth, gently sucking it.

What are you doing to me? I... I never felt like this! Unable to control his body, he thrust into the warm wetness. He almost cried out when Neroon pulled back. Please, I want to come...

What? What's that...? Neroon's tongue slithered down the cleft, teasing his pucker. No, that's... gross... get your tongue out of.... theeereee... Jerking violently, he pushed down when Neroon's tongue pushed past the guardian ring. Gross... but it feels so good... I'm going to come anyway... But Neroon squeezed his cock sharply, making sure he didn't come yet.No, you bastard, I need to come!

He froze as Neroon pulled back, leaving him in need of release. What was Neroon doing? Concentrating on the few noises, he still felt clueless. Was Neroon fisting himself or... Rubbing lubrication onto his cock? I do hope he realizes he needs something to get inside. I won't let him tear me...

"Neroon..."

"I told you to be quiet."

"But there's something you need to know!"

"What?"

"I... I'm new at this... You're my first..." Neroon had to know he was new at this. Damn this seduction to hell! He was okay with having sex with Neroon, but the Minbari wasn't going to hurt him.

"Your first what?"

"You're the first to take me like this..." Marcus' voice became a whisper. "I don't know about Minbari, but when two human males have sex they need something to ease the way in. Oil, or lotion or..."

"Marcus, calm down. I just rubbed some oil on."

Marcus sighed... "I just thought you should know..." Unexpectedly, the blindfold was removed and he blinked a few times, trying to focus on Neroon. The Minbari's expression was thoughtful.

"You should have told me earlier."

"I didn't want to spoil the mood..." Marcus tried to grin, but failed. "I'm nervous."

"That is normal, considering this is your first time..." Neroon almost seemed to reconsider. "Do you want to proceed?"

Marcus nodded his head. He had come this far and he wasn't stopping now. Better to get it over with!

"I will be gentle."

"Let's do this, Neroon." Marcus grabbed the Minbari's head and claimed his lips. Convince him you're sincere! It worked. Neroon passionately returned his kiss and then pulled back, his eyes blazing with lust.

His breath caught as Neroon guided his legs over the warrior's shoulders. Exposed like this, his fingers clawed the pillows. He hoped it wouldn't hurt too bad. Staring into Neroon's eyes, his breath hitched, feeling the tip of Neroon's cock against his guardian ring.

"Try to relax." Neroon leaned in closer for another kiss.

Marcus eagerly returned the kiss. It helped that Neroon was still stroking his cock and he was about to come. Clenching his teeth, he rode out the shallow pain that cut through his lower body as Neroon pushed inside. "Oh..."

"I promise you ecstasy." Neroon started a gentle rhythm.

Marcus expected even more pain, but it faded and a warm sensation went straight to his cock. Neroon brushed his prostate and he screamed, releasing his come. Still staring into Neroon's eyes, he noticed the Minbari's pleased grin.

"I made you come, Marcus... but we need more practice. I will last long and you came already... but maybe you will come again."

Neroon's hands held him in place as the Minbari continued to thrust, almost pushing him over the floor. The power of his thrusts increased and so did his pace. "What...?" Neroon's cock brushed his prostate again. "I can't believe this... I'm growing hard again!" Neroon aimed his next thrust well and battered against his prostate. "My God, what are you doing... oh yes, yes, yes, yes..." Closing his eyes, he surrendered to the sensations that raged inside his body. "Yes, yes! Yes! YES!" Neroon buried himself inside his body one last time and climaxed. Something warm settled inside his body and he realized it was Neroon's come. Bordering on the edge of unconsciousness, he panted hard, clinging to Neroon.

"You did well."

Neroon placed a kiss on his brow and Marcus sighed, tired and spent. He yelped softly as Neroon pulled out. He hadn't expected that to hurt, but it did!

"Close your eyes and give in to sleep," Neroon whispered softly. "I'll take care of you."

Marcus smiled, satiated and closed his eyes. Falling asleep only took him seconds.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Neroon sat back and watched his lover sleep. "Why did you wait so long to tell me I am your first?" He had been tempted to stop, but his body -and Marcus'- had demanded release. After rolling Marcus onto his stomach, he parted the buttocks and checked for any injuries. He hadn't held back when he should have and he encountered some blood.

Neroon rolled Marcus onto his side and made sure several pillows cradled his lover. From the bathroom he fetched a clean towel and a bowl of water and cleaned Marcus and himself up. Setting the items aside, he gathered a blanket, covered Marcus with it and spooned up behind his lover. His fingers gently tangled in the dark locks and he marveled about the man in his arms. "I should have asked you if I was your first male lover... I simply assumed and assumed wrongly. I will not make any more assumptions." I was your first male lover... You would not give yourself to me if you did not really love me... This has nothing to do with Delenn's scheming. This is real.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Marcus felt warm and comfortable when he started to wake. He wanted to stretch, but froze, feeling the hot body spooned behind him. Suddenly, last night's events rushed back to him. He had gone to Neroon's quarters and they had had sex. He had expected to feel ashamed and taken advantage of, but he was actually okay with it. The only thing he could have done without was going down on Neroon. That had been much worse than being on the bottom. But he made me come... Twice.

"Good morning, my love."

Neroon's voice took him by surprise. He couldn't see Neroon and had thought that the Minbari was still asleep. Neroon's tone had been pleased, warm and filled with affection. "Morning, Neroon." Soft hands gripped his waist and rolled him onto his other side, until they were lying face to face. The smug grin on Neroon's face didn't surprise him. "You're a cocky bastard, do you know that?"

Neroon looked confused. "A what?"

I'd better not teach you the meaning of some words... At least this way I get to have some fun! "You looked damned pleased, making me come."

"Pleased?" Neroon grinned. "No, I was proud. I made you come twice. And I was inside of you when you came that second time." His grin faded and a thoughtful expression replaced it. "Why did you wait to tell me? You should have told me before we made love."

Made love? Neroon, we had sex! We had sex because Delenn ordered me to have sex with you... though I have to admit it was more pleasurable than I had thought it would be. "Ah, Neroon, what can I say? I didn't think it mattered until..."

"Until you realized what was about to happen," Neroon finished for him. "It was reckless and foolish to hide it from me. I should have known you were rather inexperienced."

"And how should you have known?" Marcus continued to return Neroon's stern gaze and refused to lower his eyes. "Am I that bad in bed?"

Neroon chuckled. "You never pleasured someone orally before, have you?"

"You could tell?"

"Your teeth scraped my flesh and although you made me come hard, I did fear you would choke on my come." Neroon's smile was warm and he gently caressed the long, dark hair. "Are there any more secrets you wish to share with me?"

Ah, Neroon, if only you knew... Hesitantly, Marcus raised his hand and caressed Neroon's bone crest, drawing soft moans from the Minbari. "No, I just thought you should know that I hadn't been with a man before."

"Why did you wait this long? It is a divine experience." Neroon leaned in closer and placed passionate kisses on Marcus' throat. Accepting the touch, Marcus threw back his head, exposing more of his throat. "There were wars to fight, stubborn Minbari warriors to challenge to Denn'Sha, traitors to catch..."

Neroon stopped kissing him and clutched Marcus' head with his hands. "Speaking of traitors... You will be more careful when walking in the gardens. I forbid you to present yourself as a target. Now that you are my lover, you need to be more careful. I do not want to lose you."

"Ah, I didn't know you cared, Neroon." So your guards told you about my walk in the gardens? I knew I was being followed!

"I care, never doubt that." Neroon proved his point by pressing a hard kiss on Marcus' lips.

"You made your point," Marcus said, once Neroon released his lips. "But we need to find the traitor, Neroon, before even more lives are lost. Minbari and humans paid the price for his treachery and I was sent here to expose him. I'll use whatever means necessary to do that."

"You will not place yourself in danger to capture him!" Neroon's tone grew annoyed. "Let me deal with the traitor."

"Neroon, I'm a Ranger. I can defend myself should he attack me. You don't have to protect me."

"It is custom to protect one's lover, and now that you are mine, I will do my best to keep you from harm."

"Neroon..." Marcus' tone carried a distinct warning. "Don't go all protective on me. I can deal with this. I fought you off, remember?"

"And you lost that fight, not because you lacked agility or cunning, but because you lack strength. Minbari are stronger than humans. You should not take that lightly."

"I'll try to be more cautious," Marcus promised; giving in was better than to fight Neroon on this. It was time to change the subject. "I thought we'd be glued together. Did you clean me up?"

"Yes, after you fell asleep. I do not want to neglect my duties as your lover."

"That's sweet... Don't look at me like that! I'm serious. That's a sweet thing to do!" Marcus moved and his face contorted briefly. "Bugger, I'm sore..."

"You were bleeding and you should apply some soothing balm. Nasdak will bring you the balm."

"Ah, Neroon? I don't want Nasdak to know that we..."

"We made love..."

Neroon kissed him again and he willingly parted his teeth. Challenging Neroon's tongue to catch his, he deepened the kiss and rolled on top of the Minbari. His passion wasn't completely an act. Since last night he was curious to find out more about Neroon's attraction to him, and if he could return that attraction, even better. Manipulating Neroon like this didn't feel right and he hoped to develop some feelings for Neroon in return as they would probably spend months, maybe even years together.

"You are passionate," whispered Neroon, after breaking free from Marcus' lips. "I approve of that."

"You approve?" Marcus laughed, amused. "I'm so glad I have your approval in this matter." Suddenly, Neroon's hard cock poked his abdomen. "Uhm, Neroon?"

"Yes, my love?"

"You're hard."

"Very observant of you. You are a man of many talents."

Neroon rubbed his erection against his groin and Marcus panted softly, growing aroused as well. "I didn't think I could get it up after last night."

"You have an excellent stamina, great endurance."

Neroon's teasing relaxed Marcus and he noticed the Minbari's dilated pupils. "You want to go again?"

"Yes, I want to come... but you are still too sore from last night."

"How do you want to do this?" Marcus started to roll onto his back, but Neroon stopped him, keeping him in place. The Minbari parted his legs and pushed Marcus into the right position for their cocks to touch. Aligning them, he raised his hips and thrust gently.

"Like that?" Marcus liked the idea, and the position.

"Yes, like that."

Marcus thrust experimentally, watching Neroon closely. The Minbari grabbed his waist and forced him to speed up. Setting a rhythm that pleased them both, Marcus' thrusts grew wilder. Neroon's cock was leaking pre-ejaculate, making everything wet and slippery. "This feels great..."

"I thought it would," Neroon said with his now familiar smugness. "Faster..."

Marcus gasped, as Neroon's fingers curled around his cock, stroking him in the same rhythm as his thrusts. "I'm going to come..." Neroon reached for him and pulled him close enough to kiss him. Marcus greedily kissed him back, sucking Neroon's tongue and coming hard.

Neroon moaned, releasing his own orgasm and pulled Marcus close, holding him tight. "That is three..."

Exhausted, Marcus collapsed, resting his weight on Neroon, knowing the Minbari could easily take it. "That's three times in... How many hours?"

"Nine..." Neroon licked his lips and then licked the salt from Marcus' throat. "Mine," he purred, pleased.

"Well, as long as you don't forget you're mine too, I approve of that." Marcus smiled as Neroon's arms came up behind him, to hold him close. I would never have thought it possible, but I like Neroon... Being his lover isn't that bad. I might actually enjoy it!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Marcus had just finished taking a refreshing shower when someone knocked on the door. "Bloody hell, timing couldn't be worse. Who is it?" He still had to get dressed and decided against putting the lotion on to save time.

"Nasdak. Alit Neroon asked me to deliver a message."

"Great, that's bloody great. Wait!" Quickly, he slipped into his trousers and turtleneck, making sure the shirt hid the passion marks Neroon had left behind. We really need to discuss Neroon marking me like that. He headed over to the doorway and opened the door. "Yes?" Nasdak bowed his head and that gave Marcus the time to check on the small box in the Minbari's hands. Don't tell me he sent that balm after all! What if Nasdak peeked inside? Suddenly catching the traitor wasn't that important anymore, keeping his new relationship with Neroon a secret was.

"Alit Neroon would like you to join him for dinner later this evening. He regrets neglecting his duties as your host, but there is a clan meeting that requires his attention. He hopes you will accept this small token to make up for neglecting his duties." Nasdak presented the small box to Marcus.

"Thank you for delivering this to me. Please tell Alit Neroon that I understand. His clan comes first. And I'm honored to be invited to dinner."

Nasdak bowed again and left.

Marcus closed the door and released a trembling sigh. Curious, he opened the small box, expecting to find a tube of soothing ointment, but instead... "Neroon, you shouldn't be doing this..." A necklace, made from a silver like material, shone brilliantly. Attached was a pendant in the form of the Star Riders clan. Reverently, he lifted it from the black velvet it was resting on, and examined the metal. This was valuable, not only in credits, but because Neroon was welcoming him into his clan and as a part of his life. Marcus instantly felt guilty. "I should never have accepted this mission. Neroon's a decent fellow and he doesn't deserve to be played like this."

After leaving Neroon's quarters this morning he had postponed contacting Delenn, knowing that Neroon would monitor his messages. He would contact Delenn in a few days. In the meantime he would keep Neroon company at night, try to learn more about the Minbari and not because he was gathering info on Neroon, but because he was genuinely interested in the warrior.

Neroon would expect him to wear this tonight when he joined the Minbari for dinner. He tried it on and it was a perfect fit. Hiding it beneath his turtleneck, he looked at the mirror. No one would know he was wearing it. "Damn it, Neroon. Why do you have to be a romantic?"

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Neroon's thoughts drifted off to Marcus all day long. During the clan meeting he could only think of their passionate encounter. And he would have Marcus to himself in a few hours! He was already eager to make love to him again and would Marcus accept his present? Maybe he was rushing things, but he wanted Marcus to know that he wanted their relationship to be serious, not a one-night-stand.

The meeting finally ended and he retreated to his office, accessing all logs. He checked Marcus' records and found that he hadn't contacted Delenn. That had to be a good sign. Marcus wasn't confiding in Delenn about their new relationship and keeping it a secret.

After enjoying a long shower, he slipped into some comfortable black robes and headed for his quarters, finding Nasdak in the middle of preparing dinner.

"Neroon." Nasdak bowed respectfully. "The Ranger will arrive in a few minutes. He felt honored to be invited to dinner."

Neroon sat cross-legged on the floor and took hold of his tea mug, that had been placed on the low table. "What do you think of him?" Nasdak's opinion mattered to him. The young warrior was more than just a servant.

"He seems honorable..."

A knock on the door cut their conversation short. "We will discuss this later." Neroon got to his feet to greet his new lover.

"Marcus." He smiled, seeing Marcus enter his quarters. Was Marcus wearing his present? He would find out after Nasdak had left.

"Alit Neroon." Marcus opted for a formal greeting while Nasdak was leaving the room. He didn't want Nasdak to grow suspicious.

"We are alone now. You may do without the formalities." Neroon advanced on his lover, placed his hands on either side of

Marcus' head and kissed him passionately. "I missed you. You were all I could think about all day."

"I missed you too." Marcus initiated another kiss and soon they struggled to end up in charge of the kiss.

"You feel so good in my arms." Neroon pulled back and searched Marcus' eyes. "Did my present please you?"

"Yes, it did... I'm wearing it." Marcus lowered the collar of his turtleneck for Neroon to see.

"It is my way of welcoming you in to my life. The Star Riders are my life, my clan, and I want you to be part of it. You are quickly becoming the most important part..." Neroon enfolded Marcus in his arms and licked his way down his lover's throat until he found the pendant again. "Do you accept that place in my life?"

Marcus appeared speechless, but then nodded his head. "I didn't know it would be like this."

Neroon smiled, led his lover to the table and sat down. "Join me." Marcus sat beside him and Neroon fed his lover tiny bits of food, often teasing him before allowing Marcus to take hold of it with his teeth. To his delight, Marcus quickly caught on and returned the teasing. "My hunger is of a different kind." Marcus smelled different tonight, even more inviting. The heavy musky fragrance was gone and Marcus own scent had replaced it.

"You want to..." Marcus leaned back, watching Neroon.

"I want to make love to you... Do you want that too?" He would never proceed without his lover's permission. If Marcus still felt sore, he would respect that.

"Actually, making love sounds just fine to me... You already have a head start on me," Marcus remarked, as Neroon dropped his robes. "Going commando?"

Neroon frowned. "Going commando? I do not know that expression."

"It means you aren't wearing any underwear."

Neroon nodded his head. "Now be quiet..." Silencing Marcus with a kiss, his hands quickly did away with Marcus' tunic and turtleneck.

"That reminds me... No more marks."

"Why? Do you not want to feel the proof of my passion for you?"

"Let me rephrase that then, no visible marks, nothing above the collar."

Neroon grinned. "That is acceptable." His fingers quickly unzipped Marcus' trousers and pulled them down. His lover was now naked and he had to admit he had left behind too many marks; they marred the smooth skin. "I want you... I crave you..." His passion surprised him. Looking Marcus in the eyes, he saw the same lust reflected there. "Now? We can finish dinner later..."

Marcus swallowed hard. "Be careful? I still feel a little bit sore."

"I will be gentle... Roll on to your left." Neroon admired his lover's long legs, and spooned behind him. His cock was already trying to slip inside, but he stopped, reaching for the oil. "Let me prepare you properly. I went too fast last night. I regret not paying proper attention, but my need overwhelmed me. Pull up your legs."

He ran his hands over the soft buttocks and coated one finger with oil. "We will go slow, as you requested." His right hand stole to the Ranger's groin, pleased to find his lover hard and leaking pre-ejaculate. "Last night I promised you ecstasy, now I promise you passion." Marcus' cock grew even harder under his touch. Stroking his lover steadily, he probed the tight pucker with one finger. Marcus moaned and almost jerked back. "Let me do this, Marcus. Your body needs release as so does mine."

"Just do it..." Panting softly, Marcus closed his eyes.

Neroon pushed one finger inside and massaged the tight passage. "Calm down, trust yourself to me..." He continued the massage for a few more minutes, then added more oil and a second finger. This time he aimed for Marcus' prostate. The Ranger twitched helplessly in his arms and Neroon squeezed his lover's cock, preventing Marcus from coming too soon. "Not again... Not yet."

After applying a generous amount of oil to his cock, he positioned himself at Marcus' entrance. "Soon, my love, soon." He slowly pushed inside, rubbing Marcus' buttocks. He had stopped stroking him and Marcus' erection faded slightly. "Are you ready?" He sheathed himself to the hilt, buried ball deep into his lover's hot passage.

"Yes... Neroon... I want to come... I feel so full and..."

Neroon thrust, hit Marcus' prostate and smiled, hearing his lover yelp. "I will drive you insane with passion. Let me hear you scream." He thrust again, setting a fast and deep rhythm, constantly battering his lover's prostate. "You may come now..." Marcus' hand grabbed his, squeezing it tight, almost crushing it. Hearing Marcus moan low in his throat, Neroon drove himself in deeper, faster. Hot come dripped from his hand and Marcus' inner muscle contracted around him. Unable to hold back any longer, he climaxed, crushing Marcus to him.

Marcus pushed back, and Neroon held him close, licking the back of his neck, tasting salt and sweat. "No marks," he said teasingly. The last waves of ecstasy swept through him. Making love had never felt like this before. "I will keep you..."

Marcus chuckled shakily and Neroon took that as a hint to gently pull out. Marcus yelped softly. "I am sorry, my love..." Last night, Marcus had fallen asleep on him, but that wouldn't happen today. "Do you want to take a bath with me?" Rolling his lover on to his back, he kissed both draped eyes.

"Yes..."

Neroon nodded once. "Wait here..." He got to his feet and headed for his bathroom to fill up the bathtub. Valen, what is he doing to me? I cannot get enough of him... He returned to his lover, gently pulled him to his feet and led him in to the bathroom. He fussed over Marcus when his lover hissed sitting down, and slid in behind him, parting his legs and began to massage the tense shoulders.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Marcus tiredly closed his eyes. "You'll wear me down." He was still trembling from having sex with Neroon or should he rephrase that? Having sex or making love... what had they been doing? Neroon clearly loved him with a passion and he was reacting, not only physically, but he found himself yearning for the next touch, the next kiss and even feeling Neroon inside him no longer repulsed him. At this point he wasn't sure it ever had. Did being in love feel like this? If it did, he had never before been in love.

He leaned against Neroon's chest and sighed contently. "A hot bath was just was I needed." Neroon's strong hands showed extreme gentleness when working on his tense muscles. "You surprise me, Neroon."

"Why?"

Neroon's lips suckled his skin and he hissed. "Nothing above the collar!" He elbowed Neroon, who laughed loudly. "Cocky bastard!" It was a good thing that Neroon didn't know the meaning of that expression. "That felt good..."

"The massage?"

"Yes..."

"Want me to continue?"

"Yes! Bugger, you're playing with me!" Marcus let the hot water caress his body. "Neroon? If I weren't this tired I think I could come again."

"Want to test that theory?"

Neroon's hands moved down his waist and cupped his balls in the palm of one hand, while gently massaging his limp penis with his left. "Neroon, I'm too sore to..." What? To have sex or to make love? "To make love again."

"I do not need to be inside you to make love to you. My hands are very talented."

Marcus didn't need to see the smug grin to know it was there. "Neroon..."

"Close your eyes. Humor me."

Marcus obeyed and rested against the warm and strong body. Neroon hadn't exaggerated. Those fingers worked their magic on him, making him hard again. "What about you?" He didn't want to be selfish and leave Neroon behind.

"Be silent. This is for you... Another gift from me."

Marcus relaxed in the warm water and bit his bottom lip as Neroon managed to pull him back from orgasmic brink, and again... and again. Pleasure became torment, almost pain and he sobbed softly.

"You are ready to come..."

Suddenly Neroon stroked him firmly and he threw back his head, screaming his pleasure. Shaking like a leaf, he felt how Neroon's arm pulled him close to the powerful chest. "My God... That was one of the most shattering orgasms I ever had. Your hands are truly talented."

Neroon smiled and kissed him. "Hungry? We should finish dinner."

"Hungry? I'm beat..." Snuggling close, he relished being held this tight.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

"Good morning, Neroon." Marcus smiled, waking up first for a change. They had fallen asleep cradled by countless pillows and Neroon had covered him with a soft blanket.

"Good morning."

Neroon leaned in closer and placed a teasing kiss on his lips. "What are your plans for today?"

"I have to attend another meeting, but tonight I am yours."

"I'd love that..." Smiling brilliantly, Marcus realized his grin had to look goofy to Neroon, but he couldn't help it. His stomach was doing somersaults, and he felt like he had finally reached heaven after wandering aimlessly for so long. "And I love you."

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

The following weeks were spent in mutual bliss. Marcus even moved in to Neroon's quarters. Secretively, he snuck inside every night and the few things he had brought from Babylon 5 quickly ended up in Neroon's rooms. They settled down in a comfortable rhythm of sparring, eating and sleeping in each other's arms and making love.

Marcus had realized by now that his crush on Neroon was growing. When Neroon wasn't near, he felt restless and nervous. Finding the traitor or winning Neroon's support for the alliance were hardly on his mind anymore. Neroon was doing his best to find the traitor, but so far he’d had no success. Neroon also still refused to support the alliance and Marcus suspected Neroon was testing him, making sure his reasons for being his lover were honest. Once or twice he had considered confessing everything to Neroon, but when he lay in Neroon's arms his courage deserted him.

Deeming it safe to talk to Delenn, he contacted her. She immediately answered the call, smiling softly.

"Marcus... I expected you to contact me sooner."

He could see the fine lines of tension around her mouth. "I apologize, but so far there's hardly anything to report."

"Continue."

He knew he couldn't speak freely. Neroon was monitoring all calls. "Alit Neroon still refuses to support the alliance, but he has promised me to talk to his clan on our behalf."

"Yes?"

"We haven't had any luck locating the traitor. He doesn't leave any evidence and we don't know where to start. Alit Neroon suspects the traitor might be stationed at the Training Facility, but I don't know why he thinks that."

"He may have a valid point. Two days ago Master Durhann suffered a broken back during a mysterious accident. He was following a young Minbari who acted suspiciously. Unfortunately he has no name for us."

"A broken back? He'll recover, I hope?" Durhann had taught him how to use the pike! He liked the old Minbari!

"Yes, he will. Our best healers are monitoring his recovery." Delenn paused and cleared her throat.

Marcus grew alert. Delenn knew he was being monitored so she would adapt her question to his situation.

"How is Neroon treating you?"

You want to know if we're already sharing a bed... "Alit Neroon treats me very well. He's the perfect host."

Delenn's eyes sparkled as she understood the message. "That pleases me. Don't wait too long to contact me again, Marcus..."

"Delenn?" He had to take the risk that Neroon would watch this message at one time. The secret was eating at him. "Something unexpected happened."

Delenn gave him a confused look. "Marcus?"

"I'm in love with Neroon. It started subtlety and at first I didn't realize it was happening. If you hadn't ordered me to seduce him I would have done so anyway. He's a gentle and kind man and he even gave me this." He uncovered the necklace and expected Delenn to lecture him, but instead a broad smile settled on her features.

"You put yourself in danger by admitting this. You know Neroon monitors all calls."

"I do. I'm fully aware of the risks I'm taking, but I can't lie anymore. I'll tell him tomorrow."

"Marcus, he won't easily forgive you."

"I deserve his anger, but I can't manipulate him any longer. That never worked. Delenn? I think I have found the other half of my soul. We fit... perfectly."

"I am very happy for you, Marcus. Let me know how Neroon reacts when he finds out?"

"I will. Thank you, Delenn." He terminated the call and began to pace. Now he had to find a way to come clean with Neroon.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

A few days later.

"Alit Neroon?" Nasdak waited near the doorway for Neroon's permission to approach.

"Yes, Nasdak?" Neroon felt chipper and cheerful. Last night, Marcus and he had made love all night long and he had probably exhausted his lover. He had to admit that Marcus was wearing him down as well, but it was a pleasant exhaustion that seeped through his veins.

"I... I found this at Marcus' quarters." Nasdak placed the lotion on Neroon's desk. Seeing the other man's frown, he explained. "At first I thought it was just regular lotion, but... I recognized the scent and had it analyzed. It contains an ingredient that acts as an aphrodisiac on Minbari. I checked if it was a normal ingredient for human lotion, but I could not find a single brand that carried it. This was made on purpose."

Neroon's frown deepened. "What are you trying to say?" He didn't like where this conversation was headed.

"Is it possible he tried to... to seduce you in order to gain your cooperation? You are supporting the alliance because of Marcus and you caught the traitor a few days ago. I would almost assume this was premeditated."

Neroon stared hard at Nasdak. At the beginning, he had had similar doubts, but he had dismissed them after hearing he was Marcus' first male lover. Was Marcus capable of manipulating him like this? Was his passion merely an act? He had been surprised when Marcus had come to his quarters willingly that first night, but his love and passion had pushed away his doubts. Neroon took hold of the bottle and squeezed a small amount on to his fingers. Valen, this was the scent that had driven him mad those first few days! A sinking sensation in his stomach almost made him nauseous. "I will confront him," he promised Nasdak.

"Did you find anything else that affirms your suspicions?"

"I am afraid so." Nasdak place a tube on Neroon's desk. "It is an antibiotic, ointment to soothe any aches that might occur after the act of love."

Neroon examined this item as well. "I did not give him this." Recalling their first times, he remembered that Marcus had told him not to have felt any attraction before arriving at his home. If that was the truth, then why pack this ointment? Valen, he set me up! He used me to gain my support! Shocked, he signaled Nasdak to leave him alone for now. He needed to think.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Marcus impatiently paced his rooms. In an hour he would leave for Neroon's quarters and try again to tell the truth. Last night, he had started, but Neroon had kissed him breathless and his body had betrayed him, craving release. There hadn't been any more conversation, except for a few whispered encouragements. How could he tell Neroon that he had set him up and used him? Later, he had fallen in love with the Minbari, but the guilt kept eating him. He was no longer acting passionately, he really felt lust and love when Neroon was near, but would the Minbari believe him? He had to risk it all.

Suddenly the door to his quarters opened and Neroon marched inside. Strange, he hadn't heard a knock! "Neroon?" He stopped in his tracks, seeing the cold and distant expression in Neroon's dark eyes. The Minbari had looked at him like that in Down Below before beating him within an inch of his life. Involuntarily, he backed away from Neroon. "Neroon? Is something wrong?"

Neroon placed two items on his platform and Marcus gasped. He hadn't missed the lotion or the ointment as he hadn't used them since that first week. "Yes?" Playing dumb for now, he tried to come up with a way to salvage the situation. Neroon looked furious and icy cold. Emotionally, Neroon had already locked him out.

"Care to explain what these are doing in your quarters?" Neroon crossed his arms in front of his chest, a frozen unfeeling statue. Marcus barely kept himself from shaking. He had always known that Neroon could find out the truth. "It's not what you think it is."

"This is not an aphrodisiac, designed to drive me wild with passion? This is not a tube of ointment which you used after we coupled?"

Marcus cringed. Coupled? What had happened to making love? Had he really lost Neroon? "Please let me explain..."

But Neroon cut him short. "No, I merely require answers. Did you set me up? Did you use these items to ensure my support? Did you come to my bed because Delenn ordered you? Did you use me? Yes or no?"

Marcus lowered his eyes under Neroon's glare, unable to meet the Minbari's angry expression. "Yes." He couldn't lie to Neroon. "But..."

"No, I heard enough. I’ve lost my trust in you. You manipulated me to further the Ranger's cause. I want you gone. You have one hour to pack your things and leave my home. Nasdak will deliver your personal things to your rooms. Do not come to my quarters. My guards have orders to escort you back to your rooms and I will never again talk to you." Neroon's eyes cracked for a second and revealed his true emotions. "I loved you..."

"Neroon, wait, let me explain!" No, it couldn't end like this! "Yes, I made a mistake by accepting this mission, but..."

"I am a mission to you? You played with my feelings! I was ready to announce you as my official mate and to have our union registered! I planned to propose to you tomorrow evening and you... Just get out of my sight!" Neroon angrily turned around and slammed the door behind him.

"No, you have to give me a chance to explain!" But he knew it was useless. Neroon would never again listen to him. He had lost the one precious love he had been looking for his entire life. Collapsing against the wall, he slid down onto the floor and stared at his trembling hands. Why hadn't he confessed everything last night? Maybe then Neroon would have been inclined to give him the benefit of the doubt! Angrily, he pulled at the covers and the lotion and tube dropped onto the floor. He should have disposed of them after that first week, but he had forgotten about them! He had no longer needed the lotion! Neroon didn't deserve this. He had to make one last attempt to convince the Minbari.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Marcus angrily glared at the two guards as they opened their pikes, crossing them in front of Neroon's door, keeping him from entering. "I demand to talk to Alit Neroon!" Marcus' hands were fists and he wanted to slam them against the wall to relieve his anger. "I demand to see him!"

"Alit Neroon refuses to talk to you," Nasdak said, entering the corridor. A guard had notified him of Marcus' arrival and Neroon had ordered him to deal with the Ranger until his departure.

"Nasdak, talk to him! Tell him that he's wrong! I do love him! It wasn't a lie."

"Why should he believe you?" Nasdak's expression grew sad. "I am not overly fond of humans, but you almost changed my mind. I hoped Neroon had finally found a worthy mate, but you set him up, betrayed his love. I do not blame him for sending you away."

"Nasdak..." He didn't know what to say, how to convince the other Minbari. "I'm only asking for five minutes! I can explain everything in five bloody minutes!"

"No." Nasdak shook his head, straightened his shoulders and inclined his head. "Alit Neroon wants you to know that should you ever meet again, he will challenge you to Denn'Sha and then he won't stop short. He will kill you. You should avoid Neroon."

"You can't be serious! I demand to talk to him now! No one threatens me, least of all Neroon!" He loves me! He couldn't kill me even if his life depended on it!

"You do not seem to understand how deeply you insulted his honor." Nasdak actually felt some pity for the Ranger. "You pretended to love him, assured him of your loyalty, accepted the token of our clan... It was a lie. Neroon wanted to make your bond official."

"Nasdak, I do love him."

"I do not believe you and neither does Neroon. Leave now or the guards will remove you from this corridor with force." Nasdak nodded his head and the guards moved forward. "They will also escort you to your flyer. I believe Neroon gave you one hour to leave. You are running out of time."

Shocked, Marcus stared at Nasdak. The young Minbari and he had become friends during these last few weeks, but he was looking at a stranger right now. He finally realized that standing here, shouting at Nasdak, wouldn't get him anywhere. He had played with fire and had gotten burned. Neroon didn't want to talk to him, or even see him. Leaving Minbar was his only option. He would return to Babylon and report his failure to Delenn. "Tell Neroon I'm sorry. I never wanted this to happen." Marcus walked out of the corridor, leaving his love and his life behind.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Neroon hurried away from the doorway, hearing Marcus leave and Nasdak enter. He had almost caved in and given Marcus a chance to defend himself, but he was already showing too much leniency. According to clan custom he should have dealt with Marcus in a more definite manner; by killing him. Sitting down behind his desk, he blankly stared at the reports and logs in front of them.

"He wants you to know he is sorry," Nasdak said, approaching the desk. "I believe he sincerely regrets what happened. I am sorry that I did not find the lotion earlier. You loved him..."

"Yes, I did, Nasdak, and I do not think I can ever love again." Marcus had greatly disappointed him and his heart was still recovering from the blow. Would he ever fully recover from the treason? "I thought I had found a new mate and even you approved of him."

Nasdak rested a hand on Neroon's shoulder. "I regret that it has to end like this. When you hurt, I hurt... Father." Saddened, Neroon looked at his son. "I know you wanted this to work... And so did I."

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Marcus put the flyer on automatic pilot, unable to concentrate right now. His heart was breaking in two and for the first time since losing Hasina and his brother, tears gathered in his eyes. He had found love and had then lost it. Neroon wouldn't give him another chance and he had to return to Babylon 5, having no other place to go. He was a Ranger and answered to Delenn. She would be displeased, learning he had screwed up.

The trip to Babylon 5 would take him one day, using various short cuts. He wasn't looking forward to facing Delenn and his friends.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Neroon hesitantly entered Marcus' former quarters. The Ranger had only been gone for a few hours, but he already missed Marcus; his smile, their bantering, touching him, being inside him. Valen, he still loved Marcus! The small box on the platform attracted his attention and his heart missed a beat. Opening it, he stared at the necklace he had given Marcus to welcome him in his life.

Sighing, he sunk down on the horizontal platform, which was still rigged, and stared at the pendant. They could have been so happy together! A warrior does not mourn what could have been. I have tasks to perform, meetings to attend. The pain will grow less in time... It has to.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Carrying his duffle bag, Marcus stepped into the arrival area. He hadn't contacted Delenn yet and was relieved that no one was expecting him. He planned on fleeing to his quarters to gather his courage before facing Delenn. He wanted this over with quickly.

Entering his quarters, he couldn't help compare them to his quarters at Neroon's home. His were even more spartan! He lay down on the bed, staring at the ceiling. Growing cold, he pulled the blanket over his body and curled up on his side, hoping to lose himself in his dreams.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

He felt warm now that Neroon lay spooned behind him. Being in Neroon's arms was a familiar feeling and he smiled in his sleep. "You're wrong," he mumbled. "I love you... I never wanted to use you..."

The door chime chirped and woke him with a start, finding Neroon gone. It had only been a dream! Rubbing his eyes, he sat upright, trying to fight down his disappointment and loneliness. The chime chirped again and irritated him. "Enter!" He cringed, seeing Lennier enter. The young Minbari was strangely agitated; he didn't know Lennier like that.

"Marcus! What are you doing here on Babylon 5? You never contacted Delenn and..." Lennier's voice trailed off.

Marcus raised a hand. "I'll explain everything to Delenn. Can she see me in one hour?"

"She gave me explicit instructions, Marcus. You are to accompany me to her quarters."

Marcus drew in a deep breath. So much for postponing talking to Delenn. "Just give me a moment to freshen up." Tired, he walked to the bathroom, washed his face and combed his hair. After straightening out his uniform he joined Lennier again. "Let's go, Lennier."

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Fifteen minutes, he found himself sitting opposite Delenn, who gave him a critical look. "Delenn, I'm sorry I didn't contact you, but I needed some time to myself."

"You look tired, Marcus... Resigned. What happened? The last time we talked you seemed happy, in love."

Marcus shrugged his shoulders. "Things spun out of my control."

"Here, drink this first. You look like you need something warm." Delenn handed him a cup of tea and waited patiently. Marcus sipped and then decided to get it over with. "Neroon found the lotion and figured everything out. He came storming into my quarters and told me to get out. It didn't take him long to put the pieces of the puzzle together. I should have been more careful."

Delenn looked stunned. "He told you to leave?"

"Delenn, I set him up! I lured him into a trap and he... Neroon really was in love with me. He welcomed me in to his clan and... even wanted to make everything official."

Delenn trembled briefly. "He wanted to make it official?"

"He said something about taking me as his official mate and registering our relationship. He wanted to propose to me." Marcus stared into his tea, avoiding Delenn's eyes. "Should we ever meet again he will challenge me to Denn'Sha and fight me to the death... And this time he won't stop short. I screwed up, Delenn."

Delenn sat rigid. "The fool..."

Surprised, Marcus looked up. "What?"

"The fool. He does not see your love is real... His loss." Delenn got to her feet and paced the room.

"Delenn, he doesn't want to see me ever again. I can no longer be your liaison to the Star Riders. We can merely hope he won't stop supporting the alliance."

"Neroon gave his word and will keep it. He will continue to support the alliance, but that is not what I am worried about."

Delenn sat down beside Marcus. "I am worried about you. You love him, do you not?"

Marcus nodded his head. "Much good it did me." He placed the empty mug on the coffee table and looked at Delenn. "I'd prefer it if you'd sent me on a mission. I don't want to be here, alone with my thoughts."

"No, you are staying. I do not want you to leave on another mission. You have to heal first. You are hurting, here." She placed her hand against his chest. "I will try to talk to Neroon, but I doubt he will accept my call."

"Don't... I don't want to embarrass him any further." Marcus wished he could leave. This conversation was depressing him. "Is there anything else you want to discuss?"

"No, you may leave..."

Marcus rose from the couch, bowed and left her quarters.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

"Marcus! What are you doing here?" Stephen Franklin smiled, seeing his friend. Delenn had been secretive and had refused to tell him when and if Marcus would be back. "Wow, you have some dark rings under your eyes!"

"Haven't been sleeping that well." Marcus cursed privately. He had managed to avoid running into his friends these last four days. He had stayed inside his quarters, merely venturing outside when Delenn requested his presence. Stephen's thoughtful look made him wary.

"Want to have dinner together? There's this new place at the Zocalo and I want to give it a try."

"Sorry, Stephen, but I'm not hungry. Another time perhaps." Marcus turned in to a corridor, quickly returning to his quarters. The door closed behind him and he dropped onto a chair, staring at the pile of books and crystals that he had assembled lately. He was afraid to go to sleep; in his dreams Neroon came to him, holding and loving him. How do I go on like this? It's killing me...

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

A few days later, he found himself at Delenn's quarters, waiting for Lennier to show him inside. Delenn had insisted they had dinner together and when he had objected, she had made it an order. Pacing the small hall, he held on to his calm. He couldn't remember when he had last slept properly and exhaustion was getting to him.

His informants kept him updated on Neroon. The Minbari seemed to carry on like nothing had ever happened and Delenn had been right. Neroon had kept his word and continued to support the alliance. He would sell his soul to have five minutes with Neroon, to explain to him what had really happened.

Delenn's voice grew louder and was now audible in the hall. Marcus halted and wondered if he should leave; it wasn't his intention to eavesdrop, but he couldn't just leave!

"Delenn, this is madness. Shakiri's demands are insane. No Ranger will ever accept them and he refuses to negotiate."

"Lennier, making this decision is hard on me, but it will ensure a permanent truce between the Warrior Caste and the Rangers, and what is more important, between Minbari and humans!"

Unable to walk away, Marcus continued to listen. Shakiri was the leader of the warrior caste and hated humans. What could Shakiri possibly want from Delenn?

"Lennier, things have to change. Shakiri offers us peace and by taking a Ranger as his official mate, the truce will be valid and permanent. We have to consider all benefits."

"What about the sacrifices?" Lennier said, arguing. "The Ranger who accepts this mission will never return to his family. Shakiri will keep him prisoner. Mate means hostage and we both know that."

"Maybe we can find a volunteer?" Delenn's voice trembled. "A truce would prevent even more losses. We would stand unified."

"Delenn, you won't find a volunteer. Shakiri is cruel, manipulative and he hates humans!"

"Maybe a Minbari Ranger? Lennier... I have to try!"

Marcus had heard enough and knocked on the door. "May I enter?"

Delenn and Lennier whispered softly. "Yes, Marcus, you may come inside." Delenn told Lennier to leave them alone and turned to face Marcus.

Marcus entered and bowed. "I overheard your argument," he admitted at once. "I'm volunteering to go on this mission."

"Marcus! You do not know what is involved!" Delenn looked stunned and needed to sit down. Marcus remained standing in front of the couch. "You know Shakiri's reputation. Why would you do that?"

"We live and die for the One. I'm a Ranger. I'm here to carry out your orders." Marcus carefully hid his emotions. Neroon no longer wanted him; this was his chance to get away from Babylon 5. I need to do something. I'm going insane being here. This is my chance to make things up to him, to the Rangers. I won't screw up again. "Delenn, I'm probably the only one with experience when it comes down to bedding a Minbari warrior! I can do this!"

Delenn shook her head. "You are doing this out of guilt."

"Does it matter? You need a Ranger to carry out this mission and I'm willing to do it." Marcus returned her stare. "Please let me do this, Delenn."

"It goes against my better judgment," Delenn said, already regretting her decision.

"Thank you. Will you make all necessary arrangement or do you prefer I do that myself?"

"No, I will contact Shakiri... Marcus, does anyone know about your relationship with Neroon? If Shakiri finds out he will decline our offer."

"I don't think so. We were very secretive. Only one servant knew, and he was Neroon's confidant."

"I will contact Shakiri," Delenn said, getting to her feet. "I will let you know if he accepts our offer."

Marcus bowed once more. "Thank you for this second chance. I won't let you down again."

Delenn's eyes grew sad, watching Marcus leave.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

"This is the contract Shakiri sent for you to read." Delenn placed the crystal in the player. "I will leave you alone so you can read it undisturbed. We will discuss it after you are done."

Marcus stared at the screen, skipping all formalities and got to the heart of the contract. If he signed it, Shakiri would be his superior in every sense of the word. Shakiri demanded his complete loyalty and obedience. The caste leader wouldn't allow him to contact anyone and... Marcus gulped. Shakiri didn't have any offspring and only an official mate was allowed to bear a caste or clan leader's children. If Shakiri demanded it, he had to carry the Minbari's child to full term and had to renounce his rights as a parent. Lennier had been right; Shakiri wasn't looking for a mate, but a hostage.

If he accepted these terms he would be Shakiri's prisoner until he died, living secluded at Yedor, cut off from his friends. He was expected to attend certain formal events, but that would be the limit of his appearances. He would be a hermit.

Leaning back in his chair, he considered everything involved. He knew that his feelings of guilt were driving him to do this, but he didn't see another way and certainly no way back. It was highly unlikely that he would ever find a love like Neroon's and now that he knew what he was missing, he felt even more depressed. He had played Neroon, played with his feelings intentionally. He deserved to spend the rest of his life like this.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

When Delenn entered, he handed her the crystal. "It's signed. I accept the terms of this contract."

"Marcus!" Delenn shook her head. "I hoped you would not."

"Did Neroon talk to you?" Delenn had hinted that she would try to contact Neroon.

"He refuses to speak to me," Delenn said, saddened. "But you should not have signed the contract. The terms are unfair."

Delenn, if you really didn't want me to do this you could have stopped me. You're my superior. You only had to say no to my offer. "When do I leave?"

"You will leave for Yedor in twelve hours. Shakiri will send an escort to take you to his residence at Yedor."

"Where I'll spend the rest of my life as his prisoner."

"It's not too late yet to reconsider, Marcus."

No, Delenn, you accepted this and so do I. And this time I won't say goodbye to anyone either. It's best this way.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

"Marcus? Are you sure you know what lies ahead of you?" Delenn fought her guilty conscience, but she wouldn't reverse Marcus' decision. She and Lennier accompanied the Ranger to the Minbari flyer that Shakiri had sent to take Marcus to Yedor.

"I read the terms, Delenn. Yes, I know what I'm getting myself in to. Can we please stop discussing this?" Marcus carried his duffle bag and recalled the last time he had left Babylon 5, several weeks ago. Back then, he hadn't known he would find love in Neroon's arms.

Four Minbari warriors approached them and one signaled him to hand over his duffle bag. Marcus had no illusions considering his new position. Shakiri considered him inferior and so did any of these warriors. Turning around, he bowed to Delenn and smiled at Lennier. "I will miss you," he said, addressing Lennier.

"I will miss you too," Lennier replied, shaken.

"Entil'Zha..." Marcus turned around and followed the Minbari inside. His personal hell had begun.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

His escort never addressed him, probably thinking he didn't speak the tongue of the warrior caste and he didn't start a conversation either. He mentally prepared himself for his first meeting with Shakiri and didn't delude himself into thinking that the caste leader would be as pleasant company as Neroon had been.

The trip back to Minbar passed without incident. The guards kept their distance, glad they didn't have to come near him or even worse, touch him.

When they finally landed at Yedor, the beauty of the city took Marcus aback. He had only been here once and back then he had been searching for the Rangers, intend on joining them. He had been mourning and depressed, feeling very much like he felt now, only the reasons differed.

The guards signaled him to follow them and he obeyed. They led him into a gigantic crystalline structure; Shakiri's home. The contract stated that he would have his own rooms in the west wing, far away from Shakiri's. One guard barked something at the other and Marcus quickly deciphered the message; tell Shai Alit Shakiri that the human has arrived.

A few minutes later the caste leader appeared and Marcus kept staring at the floor. Shakiri wouldn't like looking him in the eyes and Marcus was determined not to screw up again.

"Do you speak our tongue?"

Surprised, Marcus noticed that Shakiri spoke Standard; he hadn't expected that from a man who hated humans. "Yes, I speak your language, not fluidly, but I can manage."

Shakiri nodded his head and circled him, measuring him up. Goose flesh appeared on Marcus' skin, knowing Shakiri was trying to figure him out.

"You read the terms of the contract?"

"Yes, Shai Alit, I did." One of those terms had been to show Shakiri proper respect and to address him appropriately.

"Officially you are my mate, but I do not wish you near me. You will stay in the west wing. Should I have need for you, I will send for you."

"As you wish, Shai Alit." He briefly wondered if things could be this easy. When Shakiri backhanded him, he knew he had been right. The Minbari had been playing with him. The force of the blow had thrown him off balance, on to one knee, and he quickly got back to his feet again, knowing that Minbari warriors hated weakness.

"Sallis!" Shakiri continued to circle Marcus.

From the corner of his eye, he caught sight of another Minbari warrior, who was about Shakiri's age. He shivered, seeing the harsh expression in this man's eyes.

"Sallis, take him to his quarters. Tonight, I will pronounce him my mate. And you, human, will be present. Wear your Ranger uniform." Sallis signaled Marcus to get moving, but Shakiri stopped him. "Give me your Den'Bok. You will not carry a weapon in my home."

Reluctantly, Marcus handed Shakiri the collapsed pike.

"Now leave me! Sallis, relieve me of his annoying presence!"

Marcus had never hated someone, but he hated Shakiri within ten minutes of his arrival. His jaw hurt from when Shakiri's hand had impacted with his flesh. He has no idea how strong he is. If he had backhanded me just a little harder, I'd be nursing a broken jaw. Following Sallis, he tried to take in as much of his surroundings as he could.

"These are your rooms," Sallis said, opening a door.

Marcus stepped inside. His rooms contained a small bathroom, desk, chair and a sleeping platform. My prison. Sallis suddenly pushed him forward, apparently displeased that he wasn't moving and he stumbled forward into the wall. He tried to soften the blow, but ended up hurting his wrist. Controlling his emotions, he walked over to the bathroom and closed the door behind him, but it didn't shut out Sallis' voice.

"I will come for you in two hours. Shai Alit Shakiri will then officially proclaim you his mate. After that, you won't be leaving your quarters any time soon."

Marcus stared at the small mirror. "I understand." Looking about, he realized how luxurious his rooms at Neroon's home at been. Neroon... I'm so sorry. I want to be with you, but that's impossible. At least this way I'm still of some service to the Rangers.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

"It is time to leave." Sallis inspected Marcus' clothes. Pleased with the human's appearance, he pushed him into the corridor. "Do you know what to do and what to say?"

"Yes, the contract was very detailed." Marcus clenched his teeth. Sallis was a bully, who delighted to show his power, but the real problem was that he couldn't do anything against it. Shakiri had probably chosen Sallis for exactly this reason.

A few minutes later, soft noises reached him. They had reached the great hall where Shakiri had gathered his men. Trying to appear calm and in control, he walked up to Shakiri, bowed, and then kneeled as protocol required. He didn't look at the crowd, feeling embarrassed, kneeling in front of Shakiri.

"Clan leaders, clansmen, I gathered you here to witness my marriage to this Ranger. I proclaim him my official mate and in return the Rangers will support us in our struggles. Now that we form an alliance we will support them as well." Shakiri hissed, "Get to your feet."

Marcus obeyed, but continued to stare at the floor. Shakiri placed a small knife against the palm of his hand and cut the skin, revealing some blood. It was time for him to answer Shakiri. "Shai Alit, I accept you as my mate. The Rangers and the Warrior Caste now stand unified."

"Sallis, take him away. His presence is no longer required." Shakiri walked toward his waiting clan members.

Marcus left the hall again, pressing the skin in his palm to stop the bleeding. Now he had become expendable.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Valen! It is Marcus! Neroon stared at his former lover in disbelief. Although the dark locks partly hid Marcus' face, the green eyes flashed through the strands of dark hair and he even noticed the bruising close to his jaw. When Shakiri had announced his intention to work together with the Rangers, he had been stunned, but finding that Delenn had sent Marcus to be Shakiri's mate had shocked him. He felt angry with her for using the Ranger like that. When Marcus had seduced him, the Ranger had acted on orders and now Delenn had given him to Shakiri.

"Father?" Nasdak hurried toward him. He hadn't witnessed the ceremony and didn't know the identity of Shakiri's new mate, but froze in his tracks, seeing Marcus leave the hall. "That is Marcus!"

"Yes, Delenn is scheming again..." Neroon watched Shakiri laugh at jokes at the expense of Marcus and signaled Nasdak to follow him. "We are leaving tomorrow. I do not want to stay."

"I understand. Seeing him upsets you." Nasdak followed his father to their quarters and wished Neroon hadn't fallen madly in love with Marcus.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~